CAPTION: Cath Maggs is the new Inclusion Champion for Cranbrook Church
New Inclusion Champion for Cranbrook
Cranbrook Church has recently appointed a new Inclusion Champion, Cath Maggs. Cath is passionate about inclusion; she has served on various teams in churches, and is qualified Occupational Therapist , where empowerment and independence are core values of the profession. As someone who is partially sighted and hearing impaired, Cath has experienced first hand the difficulties people with disabilities often encounter when trying to access church.
Cath said, “I’m very excited about this new role, which is all about welcoming whoever we come across. Jesus loves everyone, so I think it’s really important that no-one who lives with a disability feels excluded from fully taking part in services, as we seek to encourage and support them to worship and serve the Lord to their greatest potential.”
“For me, good inclusion is about ensuring church life and serving the Lord are as accessible as possible, where members who have special needs feel welcome, valued and encouraged to participate and serve to the best of their abilities.”
“Inclusion champions are well-placed to facilitate this by liaising between members and church/team leaders to communicate their needs and try to problem-solve barriers, and adopt a pro-active approach to reduce potential restrictions that could benefit all who attend church.
“My prayer is that any church member who has special needs has a voice and are enabled to engage in church life and ministry, using the gifts and talents they have been blessed with.”
The role is hugely supported and encouraged by Tim Collins, Chair of the diocese’s Diversity Group, and Claire Reynolds Exeter’s Disability and additional needs advisor. Claire said, “I’m really pleased to see such positive developments as this happening in our churches. The main task for an Inclusion Champion is simply to be relational and welcoming to all that we meet. It strongly fits with our diocese’s disability message that church truly should be for all.”
Rev’d Jon Holder, who is the Vicar at Cranbrook Church, said, “We are super delighted that Cath has taken on the role of Inclusion Champion.
“At Cranbrook Church we strive to welcome everyone and recognise the unique gifts they bring as part of God’s kingdom. Cath’s role as Inclusion Champion is aimed to help us provide the best experience for all and remove any barriers which may prevent people from playing as full a part within Cranbrook Church.”
“Cath is part of our Ecumenical Church Council and we love hearing her voice of challenge and support as we seek to be a church where all can play their part in God’s Kingdom.
“Cath’s role includes being a champion for: physical and sensory disabilities, learning and cognitive needs, neurodivergence, mental health, trauma related needs, illness and other undiagnosed needs.”
If you’d like any further information on inclusion champions, do contact Claire Reynolds or Tim Collins.
Click to email Claire Click to email Tim