The Apostolate for Persons with Disabilities-Diocese of Madison Day at Devil’s Lake highlighted the gathering of many in God’s love and presence. Individuals participating and volunteering came from across the Diocese of Madison, arriving via car or bus.
The day featured Mass, a meal, ice cream, and social activities that served as a means for people to meet and share both their differences and similarities with one another.
On a bus ride up, attendees mingled over a card game of Old Maid and discussed their anticipation for the day.
Riding the bus to Devil’s Lake, Noah Deans from Dane County shared his fond memories of last year’s trip and his excitement.
“I met new friends last year who are here today, and it’s fun to meet new people,” Deans said. “I’m looking forward to doing the reading for Mass and some activities afterward.”
Deans shared that he had been to similar events previously, but he said Devil’s Lake made this event a lot of fun because of its location.
Chris Black, better known by his nickname “Chrispy” from working at Culver’s, commented that he had also been to similar events.
“Every year, I try to come out to events like these because it’s great to meet people like myself,” Black said.
While “Chrispy” enjoys a good custard and curds from Culver’s, the ice cream at Devil’s Lake stood out as his highlight of the day.
“I liked getting to walk around on trails, and the strawberry ice cream after lunch was really good,” he said.
Another attendee, Bonnie Moreland, advocates for dyslexia and other disabilities.
“A lot of people don’t understand the struggles that dyslexic people go through every day, and how things can get overwhelming,” she said. “This is an important event because it brings similar folks together.”
A youth in attendance shared that she enjoyed being able to have Mass outside for the event because it was unique to have it celebrated in nature.
The Mass and festivities would not have been possible without numerous volunteers and workers.
Multiple parishioners from nearby St. John Henry Newman Pastorate ventured to the park to help as well.
Ann and Ed Zydowsky shared that it was an honor for them to be part of such a nice gathering.
“We’re familiar with the Apostolate, and this sounded like a great event, and we love the Bishop. So, we brought our neighbor with and came to help volunteer,” Ed said.
They both commented on how a year prior, the weather had been terrible for this occasion, with cold temperatures and strong winds. This time around, the sun was shining, and no one was whining.
“We’re very thankful to be here. We love the honoring of everyone who has challenges because we’re all created by God, and it’s nice to celebrate life no matter who you are,” Ann said. “You can see the joy in all of these wonderful souls created by God, and what a glorious day it is for it.”
The day was a moment to gather in support and friendship for one another.
Moreland shared how important it is to have strong unity between everyone at events like this and all the time.
“There are a lot of barriers for people with intellectual disabilities, and rather than blocking them, they just need support,” Moreland said.
“Support helps us all reach our highest potential, which is what we should do as Catholics, be as virtuous as we can.”