On Saturday the 25th of April we had our first Sensory Mass in St Mary`s Maynooth. The Mass was designed to be inclusive and welcoming for young people and families who may benefit from a quieter and more relaxed worship environment.
The short Mass had gentle lighting and sound, calm atmosphere and people were free to move around if they needed to.
Sensory items to aid regulation were available, a huge thank you to the wonderful Maynooth Access Group for gifting the parish these items. These Sensory items will also be used in the future during retreats for the primary school children of Maynooth.
Thank you to Fr Tom for celebrating the Mass, his short homily reminded us that Jesus is the Good Shepherd and we are the sheep who follow his voice.
After the Mass everyone was invited back into the pastoral centre for a cuppa.
Thank you to everyone who helped to set up the sensory area, poured the tea, helped to clean up after and all those who joined us for this Mass. We are hoping if the demand is there that we can make Sensory Mass a monthly Mass in the parish. If you have any suggestions or would like to volunteer at a future Sensory Mass, we are always looking for people to do a reading, help set up or clean up after or to welcome families as they come into the church. You can get in touch with me by emailing parishyouthmaynooth@gmail.com
-Emma