Visiting a Place of Worship

Activity Overview

Attending religious services or visiting a place of worship can offer comfort and connection—but may also feel intimidating for individuals with aphasia. Services often include spoken prayers, songs, and group participation. This guide provides supportive strategies to make spiritual engagement accessible and meaningful.

Goal

Support individuals with aphasia in preparing for, participating in, and feeling included during worship experiences.

What to Expect

• Prepare for Service → Travel to Place of Worship → Greet Others → Participate in Service or Rituals → Socialize or Reflect
• May involve reading materials, singing, reciting prayers, or sharing in discussion
• Includes places such as churches, synagogues, mosques, temples, or spiritual centers

Preparation Tips

• Bring:
  • Service materials printed in large font or simplified form
  • Communication cards for greetings or questions, or written in a small notebook that you can bring along. 
• Review the order of service ahead of time; ask for a program to follow along
• Sit near an exit or quiet space if a break is needed
• Let leaders or volunteers know about your communication needs; remember that every person who learns about aphasia helps!

Communication Supports

• Use cards or visuals like:
  • “I have aphasia. Please speak slowly.”
  • “Can you help me find the page in the prayer book?”
• Point to pages, pictures, or people
• Use gestures or follow along silently if speech is difficult
• Singing, especially overlearned songs and melodies, is a strength for most individuals with aphasia.  Raise your voice!

Support for Family & Care Partners

• Help review service materials in advance
• Encourage participation at the level that feels comfortable
• Model respectful ways to support communication in a spiritual setting
• Let clergy or group leaders know how to include the person meaningfully

Real-Life Examples

“I can sing!  The words easy and helps. Choir?  Maybe?” — Eli, person with aphasia

“My wife uses cards to say ‘Peace be with you’ or ask someone to help her find the song.” — Travis, Care Partner 

Additional Ideas: 

• Join the choir… You don’t have to sing loudly or by yourself.  
• Consider joining groups or committees; SLPs can train these members to communicate better with you, and you can stay/get involved!