In March 2014 I visited a neurologist for the first time, and in June of the same year I received a diagnosis of Multiple Sclerosis. This had followed many months of intermittent physical complaints. Now, several years on from my diagnosis I live with what is likely to be permanent disability. I have lost the ability to walk more than a pace or two unsupported, and use a powered wheelchair almost all of the time. The disease has also affected my capacity for standing for long periods of time, radically reduced the function of my left arm, and left me with fatigue and a collection of other symptoms.

As I have come to terms with this diagnosis, and the significant changes that I have had to make to the practical aspects of how I exercise a ministerial priesthood, I have begun to develop a ministry of witness and lobbying for the full inclusion of people with disabilities within the life, work and ministry of the Church of England.

As a member of the Diocesan Advisory Committee in the Diocese of Salisbury until 2021 I advised not only on liturgical aspects but also on issues around access, reordering and inclusion when church buildings are reordered and adapted. I involve myself in ongoing discussions focused on the Church of England's approach to inclusion and disability, and want to encourage the church wherever possible to prioritise and speed up a move towards a truly inclusive church. The number of churches into which, still, I can physically not enter, let alone exercise a sacramental ministry, sets a significant challenge in terms of inclusion.

I am very happy to offer thoughts, advice or to journey alongside parishes, dioceses or individuals considering ways in which they might reconsider how accessible the ministry of their Christian community is. An example of the sermon on the topic can be found here.