FIRE Foundation of Northern Kentucky to host ‘A Mass of Belonging’ celebrating inclusion and community

Staff Report

The FIRE Foundation of Northern Kentucky invites families, educators, parish communities and supporters to join “A Mass of Belonging,” a special Mass celebrating inclusion and creating a greater sense of belonging for individuals with learning differences and disabilities throughout the Diocese of Covington. This Mass will be the third annual Mass of its kind.

The Mass will be held Sept. 15, 6 p.m., at the Cathedral Basilica of the Assumption, Covington. Father Ryan Maher, the cathedral’s rector, will be the celebrant.

The event is designed to celebrate the belief that there should be no separate Church for persons with disabilities, but “rather one flock that follows a single shepherd”, according to the FIRE Foundation. The Mass will bring together members of the Diocese, families, Catholic schools, parishes, educators and advocates to celebrate the gifts and contributions of people of all abilities to the Catholic Church.

Representatives from the FIRE Foundation of Northern Kentucky will be in attendance. FIRE Foundation’s mission is to champion the inclusion of students with disabilities in Catholic schools by providing educational resources, fundraising and promoting a culture of belonging. This year, the FIRE Foundation was able to provide grant funding to six schools in the Diocese of Covington towards accessible education.

“A Mass of Belonging is an opportunity for our Catholic community to come together and celebrate that every person has a place at the table,” said Missy Hail, president of the FIRE Foundation of Northern Kentucky. “We want families and individuals with disabilities to know that they are valued, welcomed, and an important part of our parishes, schools, and Diocese.”

Following the Mass, attendees are invited to participate in a family ice cream social, providing an opportunity for fellowship and connection.