麻豆约拍

A spiritual comment and prayer to begin the day with the Rev Carolyn Skinner.

Good morning.

For far too long the disabled community and disability sport has been largely ignored. But as the eyes of the world are on the inclusive Commonwealth Games it is another reminder of the power of sport to address critical issues in the world today. Whilst I am serving at the Games I will be actively engaged with that which might otherwise be overlooked, not least the paralympic sports that demonstrates the power of inclusivity.

Research has shown that Paralympic athletes are key to challenging perceptions of disability. They have become heroes, inspirational role models, and opened our eyes to issues which need to be addressed.

I vividly recall an evening at the chaplaincy centre at the Paralympic Games in London 2012 where the room was made up of a whole mixture of nationalities, varying levels of disability, elite athletes and volunteers, all with a passionate faith. We didn鈥檛 have a translator, but as we did our best to pray and worship together it was something truly beautiful. It was a place of acceptance, equality and unity, and felt like a little taste of heaven.

The Bible gives many examples of God鈥檚 heart for the marginalised in society. He sees the vast potential within all of us. He gives value, worth and dignity to every human being, because we are made in his image and his kingdom is one of diversity and inclusivity.

Mighty God, I thank you for the acceptance, equality and unity that we find in you. Thank you for those in society who advocate for and give voice to the marginalised. I pray that mindsets will continue to shift and that we will take greater strides towards inclusivity.

Amen