St. Charles Borromeo Church works to express our Catholic faith through building a diverse community which bears witness to the power of God’s love. Inclusion is central to this, and individuals with disabilities are invited to fully share in the rich sacramental life of the parish.

Two parishioners serve as Parish Advocates for Persons with Disabilities, and received training through Catholic Charities of Brooklyn and Queens, Parish and Community Outreach and Services.  These Advocates, Phil Murray and Ashleigh Thompson, liaise with parish leadership to ensure that meaningful sacramental participation is available to all parishioners. Phil and Ashleigh are available to meet with parishioners with disabilities in person, over the phone or by email to explore ways that St. Charles Borromeo can better meet the needs of members and neighbors. Contact the rectory to schedule an appointment.

The Church supports inclusion in various ways. For example, the Parish House, Office, and Rectory include an accessible ramped entrance, wheelchair accessible elevator, and accessible chapel, meeting spaces and toilets on both the basement and parlor levels. Many ushers wear large-print name tags to identify themselves to anyone who may need assistance. Accessibility information is stated in the bulletin. The church features a curb cut and ramp at its side entrance which enables parishioners who use wheelchairs and walkers to access the nave.

The PA system has improved sound quality for people with hearing impairments.  Announcements and excerpts from homilies are routinely featured on St. Charles Borromeo’s website to aid parishioners who may not be able to attend Mass in person.

St. Charles Borromeo Church seeks to build upon these efforts and further celebrate the various gifts and abilities of its members.