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Embracing the Journey: Disability & Faith

In our Catholic faith, we recognize that every person is created in the image and likeness of God. This truth extends to individuals with disabilities, who bear within them a unique reflection of the divine. Join Jason Nunez as he speaks with Lauren Stadelmann, Director for Human Dignity and Pastoral Care for the Archdiocese of San Antonio, and the inspiring mother-daughter duo Jean and Emma Olech. This program is a testament to the power of faith, resilience, and community.

On today’s journey, we will:

  • Learn what a Disability Ministry is and its role in supporting disabled individuals in their spiritual journey.
  • Explore ways to assist those with disabilities in their walk with God.
  • Hear from guests about how living with a disability shapes their faith and resilience

Featured Images courtesy of Veronica Markland at Today’s Catholic Newspaper, and Jean Olech. All rights reserved.

We are so grateful to this month's Journeys of Hope sponsors, Deanna & Owen Villarreal, for making this episode possible.


Guest Information

Lauren Stadelman has extensive experience in public health, health promotion, and wellness. Lauren has worked in various roles such as Program Manager, Manager of Lifestyle Coaching, Health Coach, and Director in organizations like Cooper Aerobics, Simply Well, and the Archdiocese of Los Angeles. Lauren has a Master of Public Health in Health Promotion & Behavioral Sciences from The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston. Lauren can be contacted at (210) 734-1632 or lauren.stadelman@archsa.org.

Jean Olech is married to Scott and they will be celebrating 32 years of marriage this fall. Jean and Scott have 4 children. A son Nate, who is married to Rachel, and are parents to Beth, who is one month old, Drew, Lily, and Emma. The Olech Family are members of Saint Anthony Mary Claret Catholic Church, San Antonio, TX.

Emma Olech is 16 years old and has just completed her sophomore year of high school. She has been homeschooling for the past 5 years. Emma enjoys reading, writing, and volunteering. She plans to attend college after high school and wants to study chemistry or astronomy.


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Jewel for the Journey

"For we walk by faith, not by sight." (2 Corinthians 5:7)


Get More Out of Your Journey

Resource - Archdiocese of San Antonio Disabilities Ministry

Resource - National Catholic Partnership on Disability

Resource - Xavier Society for the Blind

Video - Disabilities Mass at St. Helena Catholic Church in San Antonio, TX (May 11, 2024). Courtesy of Today's Catholic Newspaper.