Father Mike Depcik is one of 11 Deaf Priests in the United States. He works in Chicago at a church that serves over 200 Deaf and Hard of Hearing Parishioners. Recently, Father Mike created what he calls a V-Log. It's like a blog, but with video. He celebrates Mass in ASL on his V-Log and offers many other interesting links. It's called Father MD's Kitchen Table because he says Deaf people enjoy having long conversations while sitting at the kitchen table! Father Mike is an inspiring man and his contagious passion for helping others is evident the first minute I had the pleasure of talking with him. If you have a few minutes check out his V-Log, even if you're not Catholic. You won't be disappointed!
In 2007, The Roman Catholic Diocese of Harrisburg, PA developed an Office of Ministry with People with Disabilities. It's mission is to promote and celebrate the gifts of people with disabilities. There are many opportunities available for people of any type of disability. Father Thomas Rozman, pastor of St. Patrick Cathedral, is currently learning American Sign Language so that he can celebrate Mass and perform all of his duties as Priest to everyone, including those who are Deaf.
