Leading British parliamentarians joined hundreds of people at a London Service to mark the international day - Autism Sunday also known as the International Day of Prayer for Autism and Asperger's Syndrome. Autism Sunday was observed around the world on 8th February. Cathedrals, churches and religious organisations around the world pray for over 60 million people with autism and Asperger's Syndrome.
The Financial Secretary to the Treasury, Stephen Timms MP attended this huge service for autism, together with Mike Gapes MP, Chair of the powerful Foreign Affairs Committee and Lee Scott MP who is a member of the Health Select Committee in the House of Commons in the Palace of Westminster, UK. The Deputy Mayor of Redbridge, councillors and heads of UK charities also attended the service.
A moving moment in the whole service was when parents, carers, children and adults with autism and Asperger's Syndrome came together for a time of prayer. 'Open Every Door' the song for autism sung by Gresha Schuilling and written by singer songwriter Nimal Mendis was played during the service to mark Autism Sunday.
The service included prayers for Prime Minister Gordon Brown, Chancellor Alistair Darling and Children's Secretary Ed Balls. Campaigners are urging the Prime Minister to come to the aid of the Autism Community during the present financial crisis particularly calling for the increase of tax credits, the disability living allowance and carer's allowance in the budget.
Opposition Leader David Cameron extended his full support for Autism Sunday. He released a message to say: ‘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.'
The wife of the British premier Gordon Brown, Mrs Sarah Brown sent her best wishes. Among those who supported Autism Sunday were His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI, Pastor Rick Warren of Saddleback Church in California, Pastor Creflo Dollar and the Bishop of London, Richard Chartres.
A British parliamentarian David Drew has tabled a motion in the House of Commons, EDM 710 backing Autism Sunday 2009.
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