Duo represents Diocese of Biloxi at National Catholic Partnership on Disability: Pilgrims of Hope 2025
Rachel Ryan (St. Alphonsus Parish, Ocean Springs) and Paget Harrison (St. Charles Borromeo Parish, Picayune) Represent Diocese of Biloxi at National Catholic Partnership on Disability: Pilgrims of Hope 2025.
Rachel Ryan and Paget Harrison recently attended Pilgrims of Hope 2025 Conference hosted by National Catholic Partnership on Disability (NCPD). This national gathering, held only once every 5 years, brought together parishioners from across the country who share a deep commitment to disability awareness, inclusion and faith formation.
This year’s event in Salt Lake City was a powerful convergence of peers, mentors and individuals with disabilities all united by our Catholic faith. Attendees exchanged ideas, learned from one another’s experiences and strengthened a shared vision for a more accessible and welcoming Church.
Representing The Tabitha Project, a ministry of the de l’Epee Deaf Center and the Diocese of Biloxi, Ryan and Harrison joined hundreds of advocates, pastoral leaders and faithful witnesses in exploring new ways to serve individuals with disabilities. The Tabitha Project is devoted to good works and acts of mercy, promoting spiritual well-being, independence and inclusion for all God’s children with special needs. Its services include adaptive sacramental kits, caregiver support and advocacy, case management and access to community resources.
The conference offered a variety of sessions, workshops and networking opportunities. Participants explored topics ranging from Adaptive Catechesis to Universally Designed Parish to Disability in the Bible. For Ryan and Harrison, the experience was both enlightening and deeply encouraging.
“Pilgrims of Hope opened the door to a plethora of resources I’m excited to bring home to our beloved diocese,” Ryan said. “I felt incredibly blessed to just be in the room with so many pioneers in faith formation for the community. This would not have been possible without the support from Greg Crapo, Father James Smith and Bishop Kihneman. Paget and I are grateful that we were able to attend.”
Both Ryan and Harrison emphasized the value of connecting with leaders and grassroots ministers who share the mission of fostering full participation for people with disabilities in the Church. They returned home with renewed energy, fresh resources and a strengthened network of collaborators.
The spirit of Pilgrims of Hope, a call to walk together in faith, hope and unity, resonates deeply with the work of The Tabitha Project. As the Diocese of Biloxi continues its mission to support individuals with disabilities and their families, the lessons and relationships formed at the conference will play an important role in expanding outreach, resources and opportunities for inclusion.
With its commitment to the Gospel, The Tabitha Project remains dedicated to ensuring that all people, regardless of ability, can fully participate in the life of the Church and experience the joy of belonging. The insights and inspiration gathered in Salt Lake City will serve as a catalyst for continued growth, advocacy and service with the diocese and beyond.
