The Called As We Are Exhibition, which celebrates disabled people in church leadership, came to Exeter Cathedral between 12 and 19 August.
The exhibition features church leaders from across the diocese of Exeter who have disabilities, additional needs or are themselves neurodivergent. Pictured: Revd Scott Angell, Canon Lynda Barley, Laura Moffatt (Curator), Jenny Beasley, Ruth Ramsbottom, Canon Cate Edmonds (From the Cathedral) Revd Claire Reynolds and Helen Baker.
Canon Lynda Barley, who has been supporting Ruth Ramsbottom through her application to become ordained, said that she had been really encouraged to see the selection process had included diversity and encouraged disabled candidates to work out a way forward.
Helen Baker, Children’s and Families worker from St Matthias in Torquay, commented that she was pleased that ministry can include people of all ages – you don’t have to be ordained, but everyone can play the part they are called to play.
Canon Cate Edmonds was really pleased to see the exhibition inside Exeter Cathedral and commented that it was encouraging to see people with disabilities from across the diocese in positions of leadership.
Revd Claire Reynolds, Disability advisor for the diocese said “The exhibition marks a significant moment, and shows that the Church of England is keen to inspire people to think about their vocation, and that disabilities certainly aren’t a bar to pursuing that calling.”
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Do you want to see more inclusion of people with disabilities in your church or worshipping community? Then do promote Disability Awareness Sunday in your churches on Sunday 27 September 2026. Resources for Disability Awareness Sunday can be found here.