El Salvador – Inclusive catechesis: a journey of faith for all
(ANS – Santa Tecla) – The Salesian Cooperators (ASC) at the Santa Cecilia Centre in Santa Tecla, through the “Church for All” pastoral initiative for inclusion and with the support of the Santa Cecilia School, began a wonderful initiative a year ago: the first catechesis for First Communion for children with disabilities. The programme began at the end of July 2025, marking a significant step towards a more inclusive and accessible Church. On 25 April 2026, the first group, comprising six boys and one girl, received Jesus in the Eucharist for the first time. The celebration was presided over by Fr Edgar Porta in charge of the Church of Mary Help of Christians in Santa Tecla. The following day, another child received First Communion at the Casa di Ritiro Sacro, during a Eucharistic celebration presided over by Father David Cáceres, a Redemptorist. Behind this valuable initiative is a dedicated team of eight people, comprising ASC members and aspirants, who have supported the programme: catechists providing support, personalised assistance, psychological counselling, and other organisational and administrative roles. The catechesis is based on inclusion, adapting the content to the abilities of each participant with support materials designed and developed specifically for this purpose. Families are actively involved throughout the catechetical process.