St. Raphael Religious Education offers instruction in faith formation for children, teens and young adults with learning differences, including individuals who are non-verbal.  Check out our Religious Education Special Needs page or our Facebook Page for updates about our program and events of interest throughout the Archdiocese of Washington. For registration information,  contact Mary Beaudoin:  mbeaudoin@straphaels.org. 

Individuals with communication difficulties, such as Autism, need visual cues to help with understanding language and expressing themselves. Picture Communication Symbols (PCS) are often used by those who are non-verbal or have limited verbal abilities as a form of Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC).  The child or adult can touch or point to the symbol, hand a picture to their listener, or use PCS with high-tech devices to access computer generated speech.   PCS are also used for individuals with Autism who are able to speak, but need the visual support to help them stay focused and on task and to help with comprehension.  We are using PCS in our classes  to help our students. We are also using the Finding God Adaptive Program by Loyola Press.  For more information, contact Mary Beaudoin: mbeaudoin@straphaels.org.

Darlene Combs is a sign language interpreter who usually interprets the 11:30 AM Mass. For more information and to let Darlene know you could use her services, please email and/or text message her: (240) 687-0723; darlenecombs@gmail.com.