Parish Service Ministries

Inclusion Committee

Contact: Maureen Wudtke

This ministry seeks to raise awareness of those among us with special needs and works to make liturgy and parish life more accessible.

Children with Disabilities

St. Paul of the Cross Department of Religious Education offers a music class for children from infants through 5 years old, twice a year. There is a Fall Session that begins in September and a Winter Session that begins in January. You come to class with your little ones for weekly music of classics and of songs celebrating God’s love all while making new friendships with other families in the parish! The course includes a CD. For more information For more information contact Anna Mae Parkhill.

Class Information

When: Classes usually begin on the third Wednesday in September, and on the second Wednesday in January

Time: 9:30 - 10 a.m., with some extra time after class for visiting

Where: St. Paul of the Cross Kinane Center 215 Ridge Avenue, Park Ridge, IL 

Cost: $30 (checks payable to St. Paul of the Cross) $20 for each additional child. Please include:

Child’s Name & Age

Best Phone #

Email Address

Parent(s') Name

Name of Adult who will bring the child to class 

Adults with disabilities

In June 2017 the Inclusion team launched their first of three annual SPC Adults with special needs workshops. Members of the community, friends of Avenues to Independance, and other adults are welcome to participate in a two-hour workshop learning about the topic of Jesus growing in our hearts. The event includes crafts, music, dancing, and games.

General Handicap Access to Church and Holy Family Chapel

The handicap entrance is at the end of the alley located near the parish garden and upper chapel. If you got to the end and look to the right you will see an awning. This is the handicap entrance and upon entering the doors you will see the elevator that will take you to Holy Family Chapel.

Assistance for the Hearing Impaired

There are hearing sets available in the upper church. Please see an usher before Mass. They are distributed on a first come, first serve basis.

We are currently in the process of having a sign language interpreter present at weekend Masses. More information to come, in the meantime please click here to find your nearest mass location where a sign language interpreter is provided.

Assistance for the Visually Impaired

Please see an usher before Mass if you need help locating seats, our restrooms, or any other assistance.