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Ministry Profile: The Challenge Liturgy
challenge liturgy page
A Divine Liturgy for Physically & Mentally Challenged Orthodox Christians
Afew years ago, a new sign was installed in front of the ArchangelMichael Church in Roslyn Heights , New York – a sign that is big enoughto be seen by all who pass by. And although it has no words, the signsays, in no uncertain terms, that all are welcome here. This sign isthe large ramp, which makes the church building accessible to all thoseunable to walk.
Since May of 1990, onthe third Saturday of each month, the Challenge Liturgy is celebratedat Archangel Michael Church. It is a special Divine Liturgy forphysically and mentally challenged Orthodox Christians, their families,friends and members of the church community. Participants are of allages and face a wide range of challenges, including Down's syndrome,cerebral palsy, autism or blindness. Some have suffered seriousinjuries. Fr. Dennis Strouzas, Pastor of Archangel Michael Church since1984, refers to those challenged as specially “gifted,” with a pure andhonest approach to life.
The intent ofthe Challenge Liturgy is not to isolate individuals, but to offer aworship environment that understands their special needs, and ispatient and supportive as they approach the Chalice – often with greatdifficulty. In past generations families often hid away theirchallenged family members. The Challenge Liturgy welcomes theseindividuals and their families to worship, fellowship and mutualsupport. In fourteen years, the Challenge Liturgy has grown from fourfamilies to over forty families from eight nearby Orthodox parishes.
GETTING THE WORD OUT
Area parishes are notified of the Challenge Liturgy and invited toattend. An open invitation has been extended to area clergy to come andcelebrate the Challenge Liturgy on any 3 rd Saturday of the month.Participants are invited to bring their friends. Area social serviceagencies, group homes, and others are informed about the Challengeprogram. Volunteers are invited to participate.
TRANSPORTATION
Aschool bus with a driver is made available to pick up challengedOrthodox Christians and their families from nearby communities. Thecost of the service is covered by a generous donation. A network ofdrivers coordinates transportation for others not picked up by the bus.
ACCESSIBILITY
Ifyour church is not handicap accessible, portable temporary ramps may berented or purchased. The parish council could consider a permanent rampas a matter of policy. It is important to note that the Clergy-LaityCongress of 1982 in San Francisco accepted a recommendation in itsGeneral Assembly that parishes make every effort to become moreaccessible to people with disabilities.
STAFFING
Challengedindividuals are generally accompanied by families and/or professionalcaregivers. Additional volunteers are needed to welcome and assistworshipers as they enter the church building and sanctuary. Volunteersshould stand by to assist with Holy Communion. Challenged individualsoften have difficulty approaching the chalice, may have irregular oruncontrollable movements, and may need to be physically supported.
FELLOWSHIP HOUR
Fellowshipis particularly important for Challenge worshippers, offering theopportunity to socialize and find easy acceptance. During thefellowship hour, families gather for food and refreshments. The parishmay provide simple fare such as bagels, coffee and juice. Participatingfamilies and volunteers may be encouraged to bring lunch items ordessert for the group. Namedays and birthdays are remembered with cakesor special desserts. Families find comfort and mutual support infellowship.
THE CHALLENGE PICNIC
Thegroup's annual picnic at Hempstead Harbor Beach Park started as anEagle Scout project, and has grown to an Archangel Michael communityevent. Volunteers offer what they are able – food, drink, games,cooking skills, desserts and more.
THE CHALLENGE CHRISTMAS PARTY
TheAnnual Challenge Christmas Party has become such a large event that ithas moved from the Church to a nearby private school. The ArchangelMichael Junior Choir sings carols, the Greek dance troupe entertainsand gets the group started in dancing. Members of the parish preparefood and serve in the buffet line. And Santa has found time in his busyschedule to visit the Challenge Christmas Party every year.
ADDITIONAL ASSISTANCE
Certainprofessionals from within the parish have offered their services to thefamilies of challenged individuals. One attorney assists withguardianship issues. There are many other possibilities for assistance.
SUGGESTED READING
The Body of Christ: A Place of Welcome for People With Disabilities , by Fr. John Chryssavgis ($1.95 / Light & Life Publishing )
CONCLUSION
Inthe Gospel we read of four friends who brought their friend, aparalyzed man, and laid him at Jesus' feet. These people not onlywanted to see Jesus themselves, but they also brought their paralyzedfriend. The greatest gift we can give to another person is Christ. Andlike the Archangel Michael Community, your community could offer thisgift with your own Challenge Liturgy.
