The Archbishop of Canterbury has taken to social media to express his support and prayers for the Paralympics, which kicked off in Paris on Wednesday 28th August. 

He wrote on X: "May these games offer an inspiring example of nations coming together to celebrate the very best of human achievement, focusing on what these dedicated athletes can do, rather than what they cannot."

Archbishop Welby also called on society, including the Church, to remember the importance of inclusivity, urging everyone to "create a society where all people can live their fullest life".

The opening ceremony showcased a variety of performances by disabled artists, including South African breakdancer Musa Motha, who performed on crutches. French singers Lucky Love, who lives with agenesis, and Christine and the Queens also delivered memorable musical performances.

This year's Paralympics share the same cauldron as the Olympics, which is situated on a hot-air balloon moored in the Jardin des Tuileries.

The cauldron was relit for the Paralympic Games at the close of the ceremony on opening night.

The Paris Paralympic Games will host approximately 4,400 athletes from a record 165 countries, in addition to competitors from the Refugee Paralympic Team and neutral athletes from Russia and Belarus.

The Paralympic competitions commenced on Thursday 29th August and will continue until 8th September.