SPIRITUALITY

POLICY STATEMENT

 People with mental retardation and related developmental disabilities have the right to choose their own expressions of spirituality, to practice those beliefs and expressions, and to participate in the religious community of their choice or other spiritual activities.  The person also has a right to choose not to participate in religious or spiritual activity.

 ISSUES

 While many agencies providing services and supports recognize the right to religious freedom, they seldom include spirituality in individual planning.  Nor do they often help people participate in the spiritual activities or religious communities of their choice and/or tradition.

 Individuals and their families also often face a mixed response from congregations, even though many congregations and faith networks have established model programs and strategies for including people with disabilities.  Spiritual resources and congregations are an untapped source of community supports and inclusion, beyond the practice of faith and belief.  They offer opportunities to express choice, develop relationships and social networks, respect cultural and family backgrounds, and serve others.

POSITION

 Spirituality, spiritual growth, and religious expression that respect a person’s history, tradition, and current preference or choice are rights that should be honored by supports from service systems and religious communities, as should the choice not to participate.     

·      Spirituality is an important part of human experience that may be expressed both through religious practice and through expressions of personal meaning and values. Thus spirituality and religious preference should be part of all assessments of individual and family needs, interests, and strengths. 

·      Faith communities should receive assistance to build their capacity to support and welcome our constituents and their families, through partnerships with provider agencies and advocacy organizations that respect and honor spiritual needs and religious preferences. 

·      Agencies and spiritual communities should offer training and education regarding spiritual supports for people with mental retardation and related developmental disabilities.