SPRED (Special Religious Development) is an Archdiocese religious education program specifically designed to meet the spiritual needs of children and adults with developmental disabilities.
Through the experience of friendship in one-to-one relationships, our friends with special needs discover a place where they belong and can enjoy meaningful relationships which help them realize their own giftedness and dignity. Through participation in a SPRED community of faith, our friends are better able to celebrate the sacraments and enter into the worshipping experiences of the whole church. The program touches the lives of many people—volunteers, participants, and their families. It is a unique gift for all.
Participation
The SPRED program serves four age groups comprising individuals age 6 and up. ICSJ Parish works in collaboration with the three parishes in our Parish Grouping—St. Vincent De Paul, St. Teresa of Avila, and St. Josaphat—to serve these groups.
St. Vincent De Paul – ages 6 to 10
St. Teresa of Avila – ages 11 to 16
St. Josaphat – ages 17 to 23
ICSJ Parish – over 23 years old
Become a Catechist
If you’re 21 years or older, have a willingness to participate in friendship with a person with developmental disabilities, and can offer personal time to share faith with other members of the community, SPRED is for you! No previous experience is required. This is an opportunity to examine your personal response to the message of our Holy Father for justice and compassion for all. You will be surprised. You will be touched. You will discover something special that can grace your life.
Please consider joining SPRED. We would love to have you!
Please contact Carrie Mondschean at 312-320-1160 or at cmondsch@hinshawlaw.com for more information.
For general information, contact the Archdiocese of Chicago’s SPRED Center main office at 312-842-1039 or visit their website at spred-chicago.org.