About The Basilica of Saint Mary’s SPRED Program
The Special Religious Development (SPRED) Program in the Diocese of Arlington serves children and young adults with developmental disabilities such as Down syndrome, autism, and learning disabilities. Faith formation and sacramental instruction are provided and based on readiness of the individual.
Ages
We welcome children, ages 6-13 years old.
When
The Basilica’s Office of Religious Education offers SPRED lessons during the September-May school year.
We will meet on Tuesdays, 5:30-6:30 p.m.
Volunteer Adults (Friends)
SPRED volunteers help children learn about Jesus and discover God’s action and presence in their lives. By sharing in catechesis and joyful activities with volunteer adults called “friends” in 12 classes (Sept-May). SPRED prepares children for the Sacraments of Reconciliation, First Eucharist, and Confirmation. The ability to read is not a requirement.
What We Believe In
Because the Church affirms the dignity of every human person, each is invited to participate in the sacramental life and be a faithful witness to the Gospel.
We call on Mary, Seat of Wisdom, Sedes Sapientiae, to guide this program.
SPRED will meet 12 times during the school year for an hour long class. Also, the Diocese of Arlington will host several Masses/gatherings for all SPRED families. Additionally, all are welcome to attend the 1:00 p.m. monthly sensory Mass on the second Sunday of the month at Nativity Catholic Church in Burke, VA. Occasionally, the Diocesan Ministry for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing offers a Mass in sign language.
September 2026
- September 22, 2026
October 2026
- October 6
- October 20
November 2026
- November 3
- November 17
December 2026
- December 15
January 2027
- January 12, 2027
February 2027
- February 9
- February 23
March 2027
- March 9
April 2027
- April 6
- April 27
May 2027
- May 11 (backup/makeup)
–> Interested parish families are asked to contact Mrs. Yunchong Boyle at yboyle@stmaryoldtown.org or call 703-836-4100 ext. 3033.
Learn more: Guidelines for the Celebration of the Sacraments with Persons with Disabilities (PDF) and National Catholic Partnership on Disability
SPRED Mass with Bishop Burbidge
Let's Talk
Contact the apostolate leader Yunchong (Clare) Boyle by using this form.