Pope Francis’ prayer intention for the month of December is for people with disabilities.
“People with disabilities are among the most fragile among us,” Pope Francis said in a video released Nov. 28.
“Some of them suffer rejection, rooted in either ignorance or prejudice, which then marginalizes them,” he added.
The Holy Father urged civil institutions to “support their projects through access to education, employment, and places where they can express their creativity.”
“Programs and initiatives are needed that promote their inclusion. Above all else, big hearts are needed who want to accompany.”
The Pope encouraged individuals to change “our mentality a little” and open “ourselves to the abilities and talents of these people who are differently abled, both in society as well as in the life of the Church.”
“And so, creating a completely accessible parish does not only mean eliminating physical barriers,” he said. “It also assumes that we stop talking about ‘them’ and start talking about ‘us.’”
He concluded with a prayer: “Let us pray that people with disabilities may be at the center of attention in society, and that institutions offer inclusion programs that enhance their active participation.”
Pope Francis’ prayer video is promoted by the Pope’s Worldwide Prayer Network, which raises awareness of monthly papal prayer intentions.