The General Synod of the Church of England made an appeal to the new government, focusing on an issue that garnered unanimous support across the chamber. Inspired by the personal experience of Christine from Wigan, the Synod passed a comprehensive motion urging "His Majesty's Government and healthcare providers to ensure that mothers whose unborn child may be disabled in any way are given comprehensive and unbiased information about the condition and support available to them."
Rev. Pete Spiers, who proposed the motion, highlighted its foundational principles: "every person is unique and precious and made in the image of God." He challenged the prevalent notion that the birth of a disabled child is inherently tragic and called for enhanced support for parents and families facing these challenges, from both public authorities and church organizations.
Reflecting on the initiative, Rev Spiers shared insights from The Magnificat Group in his diocese, a community comprising individuals with experiences ranging from disability to baby loss, illustrating varied examples of support and advice provided to parents and children during unexpected pregnancies.
The debate resonated deeply within the Synod, with members sharing personal stories and expressing solidarity with the motion. Mary Bucknall, who was born deaf along with her sister, challenged the view that life with a disability is less meaningful, asserting, "God had a purpose when he created disabled people in the womb - to display his love and care." She shared her own experience of encountering God's love through supportive individuals on her life's journey.
Rebecca Chapman, a lay member of the Synod, recounted the emotional turmoil of navigating prenatal testing when soft markers appeared on her 20-week scan. The Archbishop of Canterbury, Justin Welby, spoke poignantly about his daughter Ellie, who is neurodivergent, and the pressure placed on his family during pregnancy to consider termination due to perceived financial burdens associated with her condition.
Elaine Heath of Deaf Anglicans Together delivered her speech through a sign language interpreter, recounting her pregnancy experience and resistance to pressured medical tests due to age-related concerns.
The debate also illuminated the joys and challenges of raising disabled children, including those with Down's Syndrome and other conditions. One grandmother movingly shared her experience of supporting her daughter through the heartbreaking news of severe fetal brain impairment, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to name and bless her grandson.
Rev. Alice Kemp highlighted the difficulties parents face when essential support diminishes abruptly as their disabled children transition into adulthood. She emphasized the need for sustained community support during these critical phases.
Rev. Kate Wharton celebrated the impactful sermon by Heidi Crowter, a disability rights advocate, who proclaimed that every person, including those with disabilities, is fearfully and wonderfully made by God. Rev. Neil Barber, unable to speak during the session, intended to share his perspective as a parent of a child with significant learning disabilities.
Reflecting on the Synod's deliberations, Rev. Barber emphasized the unseen burdens carried by families of children with special needs, often resulting in disconnection from church communities ill-equipped to support them effectively.
In closing, the Synod's motion underscored a fundamental belief in the dignity and value of every individual, regardless of ability or circumstance. It serves as a poignant reminder to political leaders, including Sir Keir Starmer, that policies and practices must uphold the sanctity of all human life, consistent with the Synod's deeply held convictions.
