Parents, carers, children and Adults with Autism and Asperger's Syndrome joined parliamentarians and dignitaries at one of the largest churches of the east side of London, All Saint's Church in Woodford Wells on Autism Sunday - the International Day of Prayer for Autism and Asperger's Syndrome. A massive gathering attended the Autism Sunday Service.
The reading was by the Financial Secretary Rt.Hon.Stephen Timms MP and Ellie Zavaroni read a moving poem as a prayer. A prayer was also said by a 13 year old boy with autism, Charin Corea. His parents, autism campaigners Ivan and Charika Corea founded Autism Sunday in 2002. Prayers were said for the Prime Minister Gordon Brown, Chancellor Alistair Darling and Children's Secretary Ed Balls that they would reach out to the Autism Community during the financial crisis. Prayers were also said for Cheryl Gillan MP's Autism Bill.
Also present were the Chair of the Foreign Affairs Committee in the House of Commons in London, Mike Gapes MP, a member of the House of Commons Select Committee on Health Lee Scott MP who has championed the cause of autism in Westminster. The Deputy Mayor of Redbridge Cllr Hinds and Deputy Mayoress were among the dignitaries including heads of UK charities. The service was conducted by Reverend Paul Harcourt, a father of a child with autism.
The beautiful song for autism, 'Open Every Door' sung by Gresha Schuilling and written by Nimal Mendis and re-released by Media Eye Music in London for Autism Sunday was played in the service.
Leader of the Opposition in Westminster David Cameron released a message supporting Autism Sunday. I would lke to express my support for Autism Sunday. As many as one in a hundred people could be affected by some form of autism, and it is important that we recognise and raise awareness of the difficulties and challenges that they can face.Sarah Brown, wife of the Prime Minister Gordon Brown sent her best wishes. Dignitaries from around the world sent messages of support for Autism Sunday including His Holiness the Pope and Pastor Rick Warren of Saddleback Church in California.
David Drew MP has tabled a motion in the House of Commons in Westminster supporting Autism Sunday. EDM 710 calls for the re-possessions of homes of families with autism to be stopped among a range of concerns on autism.
