Prospects Conference: Aman Lee challenges the Church to become inclusive
The Prospects Conference "Creative God, Creative People" in Manchester welcomed over 350 people.
Churches across the UK have been accused of “questioning God’s creativity within people with disabilities” and doing so, “is like killing a part of God”. The claim comes from Aman Lee, a man with autism and who does not ‘speak’ audibly, and yet, is to be the keynote ‘speaker’ at a unique conference in Manchester next weekend on how churches can and must become fully inclusive of people with learning disabilities.
In a hard-hitting and moving speech, Mr Lee told church leaders gathered from across the country that: “We see that God created the universe yet we question his creativity within people with disabilities, it is like killing part of God. Killing the very being that created in the first place.
“We need to challenge some of our churches to take the veils off. God despairs when he sees part of his body, destined to be givers, shut out of his house. Opportunities to people to be givers not just receivers should be found. We tend to underestimate people with disabilities. Our bodies may be different but our spirits are intact.”
Whilst recognising that churches are starting to be aware of the issues related to learning difficulties, he added: “The kindness of people who see us as poor souls only isolates us from each other, tearing apart the heart of God and dampening creativity.
“I don’t think the church realises that sitting in its pews is a [latent] work force of prayer and an expression of the unbelievable uniqueness of God.”
Event organiser, David Bendor-Samuel said: “There are between 1.4 and 1.5 million people in the UK with learning disabilities and yet very few are to be found in our churches.
“In recent years, the Disabilities Act has driven churches to make their church buildings physically more accessible to people with physical disabilities. This conference is about moving the agenda onwards and helping churches to value people with learning disabilities and to give them opportunities for service within the church.
“We recognise that for many this is an area of church life (and indeed society) which they may have reservations about, perhaps feel ignorant of, and may need considerable help. Through this conference, and our nationwide resources, we hope to offer partnership-based support until we reach a stage where people of all and any ability are welcomed and valued equally in our churches.”
Click here to download Aman Lee's entire speech.
