A message from Revd Emma Speake and Sally Coles-Robertson, Chester Diocese Disability Forum
Did you know that it's thought 15-20% of the population has a neurological difference like autism, ADHD, dyslexia, dyspraxia, dyscalculia etc? This means that many people, including those in our church communities, experience the world in a very different way. We call this neurodiversity. As Christians we believe that this is a beautiful part of creation and that diversity, in all its many forms, is what God intended for the church.
March is Neurodiversity Celebration Month, and Chester Diocesan Disability Forum wants to celebrate this diversity and raise awareness of the challenges neurodivergent individuals face in society and in the church.
This month, Chester diocese will be highlighted on the popular BBC program Songs of Praise, which will feature Chaplain Sally Coles-Robertson of St. Mary's Church PCC in Sandbach and Emma Speake, Vicar at Grange St. Andrew's Church, Runcorn who leads 'Brick by Brick', a small worshipping community for neurodivergent families, also based at St. Andrew's. There will also be an opportunity to hear the inspiring story of Revd Kate Bottley, who identifies as neurodivergent, sharing her journey and the ways her unique perspective has enriched her ministry. The episode is set to air on Sunday, March 23rd.
"Neurodiversity Celebration month is a wonderful opportunity to shine a light on neurodiversity and the incredible gifts it brings to the church," says Emma. "As a member of the Chester Diocesan Disability Forum, I'm proud to see our diocese embracing neurodiversity and creating spaces where all people can thrive."
Sally Coles-Robertson echoes Emma's sentiments. "Bishop Julie has been a steadfast supporter of the Disability Forum, encouraging us to expand our reach and create more inclusive communities of faith. With the help of leaders like Director of Outreach, Peter Froggatt and Chester Diocese's outreach committee, we are making great strides in celebrating the diversity of God's beloved children."
The Disability Forum invites you to join them at 3pm on Sunday 16th March at St Andrew's Grange for a 'Neurodiversity Celebration Service' aimed at celebrating those with different minds, as well as providing information about neurodiversity, accessibility, and inclusion in worship.
Neurodiversity Celebration Week
Neurodiversity Celebration Week is a worldwide initiative that challenges stereotypes and misconceptions about neurological differences. It aims to transform how neurodivergent individuals are perceived and supported by providing schools, universities, organisations, and others around the world with the opportunity to recognise the many skills and talents of neurodivergent individuals, while ...
www.neurodiversityweek.com