Sensory-Friendly Mass
What is a
Sensory-Friendly Mass?
A Sensory-Friendly Mass
provides a safe, comfortable,
and stigma-free setting
for children and adults with
sensory challenges, mental illness,
or any kind of disability
to feel engaged and experience
Mass in a meaningful way.
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Options for celebrating a Sensory-Friendly Mass
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There are several options for how parishes can offer a SFM:
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adding this Mass to the regular schedule and determine how often it can be celebrated (weekly, monthly)
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offer this Mass at one of the regularly-scheduled times (the evening, late morning, or early afternoon Masses work best for families) once a month to engage your faith community in a more intentional way
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partner with neighboring parishes to offer this Mass at a consistent time on a rotating basis
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Help prepare your parish community by promoting:
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parish bulletin
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parish website
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announcements at Mass
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in a homily
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Two Important Components:
"Sensory" & "Friendly"
"Sensory" refers to the accommodations that help to reduce overstimulation:
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​low lights
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no bells
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no music
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no incense
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prayers are said, not sung
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use Children's Lectionary
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short homily
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use the microphone (needed for LOOP or livestream)
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celebrate in the main church so that families can spread out
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provide low-gluten hosts
"Friendly" - the celebrant creates a welcoming environment by conveying the following before Mass begins:
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acknowledges the unwelcome that some have felt at Mass because of their disability
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briefly explains the SFM and assures people that it is ok if someone makes a noise or sits, stands, etc. when others are not
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invites individuals to let him know if they would like to serve in any way at the Mass (and can be assisted by others if desired)
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welcomes input so that this Mass can be a meaningful experience for all who attend
Who can attend a
Sensory-Friendly Mass?
"I decided to try out the sensory Mass, and I am glad I did-- I was moved.
It was the first time that I can remember that my daughter could just be herself. If she screamed out, made a noise, or decided to stand when others where kneeling I could relax about it. Too often, I am used to the stares of others. I appreciate the attention, focus, effort and care that was put into this Mass . . . the impact was huge. Thank you again."
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All parishioners and
non-parishioners are welcome.
Parishes currently offering
a Sensory-Friendly Mass:
Every Sunday
1:30pm
St. Vincent de Paul
1502 East Wallen Rd., FW 46825
