Maryland: The National Shrine of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton in Maryland is set to host the first-ever Eucharistic Congress designed specifically for the Deaf Catholic community. Scheduled for April 4–6, this groundbreaking event will bring together approximately 230 participants to celebrate and deepen their connection to the Eucharist. Organized by Father Mike Depcik, one of the few deaf priests worldwide, the congress represents a milestone in faith accessibility. Photo courtesy: CNA
A Milestone for Deaf Catholics
Father Depcik, who serves as the chaplain for the Deaf ministry in the Archdiocese of Baltimore, has long been an advocate for the Deaf Catholic community. He highlighted the barriers that deaf individuals face in fully participating in religious services, noting that 96% of deaf people, including baptized Catholics, do not attend church due to the lack of services in American Sign Language (ASL). This event seeks to address those challenges by providing a space designed entirely for Deaf Catholics and their pastoral workers.
An Inclusive and Engaging Event
Unlike other Eucharistic gatherings, this congress is specifically designed to be accessible to Deaf, hard-of-hearing, and DeafBlind individuals, along with hearing pastoral workers and hearing parents of Deaf children. While the 2024 National Eucharistic Congress in Indiana provided ASL interpreters, Father Depcik wanted to create an event that places Deaf Catholics at the center of worship and learning. The congress will feature ASL-led liturgies, presentations, and opportunities for faith enrichment.
A Lineup of Inspiring Speakers
Attendees will have the opportunity to hear from distinguished speakers from across the United States. Among them is Deacon Patrick Graybill, a retired professor known for his contributions to ASL poetry and translating religious texts into ASL. His presentation, titled “Eucharist: Holy Ground,” will explore the profound spiritual significance of the Eucharist. Also speaking is Jeannine Adkins of the National Catholic Office for the Deaf, who will lead a session on “The Healing Power of the Eucharist.”
A Weekend of Faith and Fellowship
The event will open with ASL-guided tours of the historic shrine, which includes St. Elizabeth Ann Seton’s tomb, a museum dedicated to her life, and other religious landmarks. Participants will engage in Eucharistic adoration, confessions, and Mass, alongside educational sessions, and fellowship opportunities. On Sunday, the congress will conclude with a special Mass in Urbana, Maryland, celebrating the unity and faith of the Deaf Catholic community.
Looking Ahead
The Deaf Eucharistic Congress is expected to be a transformative experience for attendees and a stepping stone toward greater inclusivity in the Catholic Church. Organizers hope the event will not only inspire those in attendance but also raise awareness among Church leaders about the need for more accessible faith services. With participants traveling from states as far as California, Florida, and South Dakota, the gathering underscores the strong desire among Deaf Catholics to fully engage in their faith. The congress promises to be a historic moment, fostering a deeper appreciation of the Eucharist while amplifying the voices of the Deaf Catholic community.