'ENABLING CHURCH’ - REPORT FROM THE RECENT ECUMENICAL CONFERENCE

Churches Together in England were among the organisers of a ground breaking conference last October - drawing together Christians of all denominations to look at attitudes and action around the theme of disability and deafness. One of the delegates was Sheron Hall, from Blackburn Diocese’s Board of Social Responsibility. Sheron writes:
`On Oct 7th a small group of us travelled down to the Friends Meeting House in London to take part in the Enabling Church conference. This was the first time such an event had been organised and was well attended and supported by many of the key people and organisations that support our ministry.
To say the day was well attended was an understatement. There were about 400- 500 delegates who had travelled extensively across the UK and some from our European counterparts. We shared our day together listening to top quality speakers sharing their insight for disability through their own experience or that of their families, offering their Biblical reflections on the subject. The aim of the day was to stimulate a conversation concerning a truly Christian response to disability and disabled people, their inclusion and involvement in every aspect of Church life.
From my own perspective, I found the day to be very uplifting and affirming, and would encourage anyone to learn more about the day by checking out the website; www.premier.org.uk
where the keynote speakers can be accessed. If you would like to discuss how your church can be more inclusive please do contact me, sheronhall@ blackburn.anglican.org. or Tel 01254 503277 or Fax 01254 692373`