Thank you for subscribing to The Catholic Universe and Catholic Times - Friday 17th July, 2020 - St Paulinus' Church, The Avenue ...
←
→
Page content transcription
If your browser does not render page correctly, please read the page content below
Thank you for subscribing
to The Catholic Universe
and Catholic Times
Friday 17 July, 2020
th
Friday 17th July 2020 • £1.50 €2.00 thecatholicuniverse.com
The Catholic
ONLY
£18
FOR 3 MONTHS
Delivered to you
your door! incorporating The CatholicTIMES
Faith leaders call for G20
to act on global debt relief
Ecumenical group pleads with Chancellor
to help at-risk people as 100 million pushed
into acute food insecurity by Covid-19
Nick Benson and brothers worldwide as they seek
Catholic Bishops and other represen- to survive and rebuild from the coro-
tatives from the UK’s faith communi- navirus pandemic’.
ties have called on the Chancellor to They applaud his efforts made at
work to provide debt relief for devel- the G20 finance ministers’ meeting
oping countries coping with the Covid- in April to reach an agreement for the
19 pandemic. temporary suspension of debts owed
The appeal comes after Pope Francis to other governments by those of the
asked political leaders “to work actively world’s poorest 77 countries.
for the common good” and called for However, they told him he must go
the lifting of international sanctions further in this weekend’s meeting by
imposed on certain countries during working with fellow finance ministers
the pandemic and for a forgiveness, to cancel, rather than suspend bilateral
or at least reduction, of the foreign debt payments.
debt of the world’s poorest nations. The signatories also call on Sunak
Dozens of Christian, Jewish and to urge the World Bank, International
Muslim faith leaders have now fol- Monetary Fund and private creditors
lowed the Holy Father’s lead and have to cancel debt payments owed in 2020
written to Chancellor Rishi Sunak urg- and 2021 by these countries.
ing him to push for debt cancellation They explain that cancelling debts
at a G20 finance meeting, which takes owed by poor countries ‘is a critical
and rapid means of ensuring that
Mr Sunak was urged health workers in developing countries
to get the World Bank have the best chance of helping to
and IMF to cancel defeat the coronavirus’ and to help
debt payments for
communities, some that have already
2020 and 2021
been hit by the effects of the climate
place this weekend, from Saturday crisis, to ‘build back from the eco-
18th to Sunday 19th July. nomic devastation the pandemic has
The letter, which has been signed wreaked’.
by 77 bishops, rabbis, imams, directors The leaders warn that the immedi-
of faith-based charities, including ate risks the coronavirus poses to
CAFOD and SCIAF, and other leaders
of UK faith communities, has been
sent to the Treasury ahead of the
meeting.
poverty reduction efforts are ‘both
clear and shocking’.
‘In total, the World Bank estimates
that between 71-100 million people
Sanctuary?
A baby is pulled tenderly on board a rescue
In their letter the faith leaders argue risk falling into extreme poverty as a craft in the middle of the English Channel
result of the pandemic,’ they write.
after a weekend of frantic activity that saw
that the move will help millions of at-
over 300 migrants try to make the dangerous
risk people in some of the world’s ‘The World Food Programme fore-
crossing from France to Dover. The incident
poorest countries as the coronavirus casts that around 270 million people occurred as Home Secretary Priti Patel was in
pandemic is brought under control. around the world will face acute food talks with her French counterpart, looking at
The faith leaders urge Mr Sunak ‘to insecurity by the end of this year. ways to stop people making the journey.
support our most vulnerable sisters Continued on page 2 AP Photo/Renata Brito Full story, see page 2
This week’s Companion
Choose optimism -
Save our insects - Tony Robinson’s
Create a bed for silver linings of
pollinators lockdown
Far-away looks Katherine Jenkins
to satisfy your takes us to the
wanderlust movies in new album
02 For extra news go to www.thecatholicuniverse.com
News Follow the Catholic Universe on twitter @ukcatholicpress
DEC appeal
for millions Safety fears as migrants risk
in danger
The Disasters Emergency Committee
(DEC) has launched a new appeal to
help millions of vulnerable people
lives on deadly crossing
whose lives are at risk as the coron- Nick Benson ing lockdown, with some taking on
avirus pandemic spreads across The Bishop for Migration has urged the journey in kayaks and even a pad-
refugee camps and countries suffering the UK and France to ensure that the dling pool. The total number of mi-
conflict. “protection of people” is an “essential grants who have managed to cross
Families who have been forced to and indispensable element” of any the Channel to the UK in 2020 stands
flee their homes in Syria, South Sudan, new plans devised in response to at more than 2,500.
Yemen and the Democratic Republic record numbers of migrants attempt- Announcing the new agreement,
of Congo, now face another deadly ing to cross the English Channel. Ms Patel said: “Despite all of the action
threat as coronavirus takes hold in His call came after Home Secretary taken to date, the numbers continue
new areas. Priti Patel and French Interior Minister to increase. This simply cannot be al-
CAFOD is among the charities back- Gerald Darmanin announced that the lowed to go on. With the French we
ing the appeal and its director, Chris- countries had agreed to create a Fran- have created a joint intelligence cell
tine Allen, said: “In the UK our struggle co-British intelligence cell to fight mi- to crack down on the vile people-
against coronavirus has entered the grant smugglers. smuggling operations and I have im-
next phase, but in many of the world’s The Auxiliary Bishop of Westminster, pressed on my French counterpart
poorest communities, the fight has Paul McAleenan, who serves as the the need to stop these illegal crossings
only just begun. Families who have Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Eng- for the benefit of both our countries.
fled conflict, and are living in crowded land & Wales’ lead Bishop for Migra- “This is the start of a new opera-
camps or makeshift shelters, are es- tion, said he welcomed the countries tional approach with the newly ap-
pecially vulnerable. working together to end the exploita- pointed French interior minister.”
“We need your support to reach tion of migrants but stressed that they It is not clear if the new agreement
these communities and help people must ensure that the welfare of these includes measures to return migrants
to cope as best they can when an out- vulnerable migrants is protected. picked up in UK waters to France.
break of the virus strikes. “Their focus must be in determining Migrant action groups were wary
“In many places around the world why so many choose to flee their of the plans, however. Bella Sankey,
there are not enough hospital beds home country and use their influence director of charity Detention Action,
or supplies to treat everyone who falls to eradicate the underlying reasons accused Ms Patel of being “disingen-
ill. But promoting handwashing and why these same people are willing to uous”, claiming that she was ignoring
providing personal protective equip- risk their lives in the open sea,” Bishop the plight of migrants who desperately
ment, health advice and food McAleenan told The Catholic Universe. risk their lives to reach the UK.
parcels can make a huge difference.” “I would like to see the details of the “The Home Secretary’s attempt to
The first coronavirus case has been agreement between the UK and treat this issue as solely about people
confirmed in north west Syria, causing France, that would indicate how they smuggling, ignoring the plight of those
alarm for a region where camps are understand and perceive what is taking desperate enough to risk their lives
over-crowded, and hospitals in ruins, place in the English Channel. to seek sanctuary in the UK, is being
after nearly ten years of war. “Surely two countries which pride disingenuous and she is taking the
“It is critical that we act now to themselves on being progressive and An exhausted migrant British public for fools,” she said.
reach millions of vulnerable people enlightened will see that the welfare huddles into a blanket “The only way to end suffering in
who have lost everything and no of those who are destitute is vital? provided by a Border Force the Channel is to create safe routes
longer have ways of coping,” said Ms “Protection of people should be official after reaching Dover for those who believe they have a
Allen. “Working with the Disasters foremost in their thinking,” he added. claim to be in the UK so that those
Emergency Committee will allow us Ms Patel announced the new ap- day record. They were among more off the UK coast, the Home Secretary claims can be determined fairly and
to scale up our response and reach proach to dealing with small boat than 380 migrants who attempted the was in Calais for talks with her newly families can be reunited.”
more people in need.” crossings on Sunday 12th July, the crossing on Sunday, with over 200 in- appointed French counterpart. Bridget Chapman, spokeswoman
Donations to the DEC’s Coron- same day a record number of migrants tercepted by French authorities and Ms Patel hailed the agreement on for Kent Refugee Action Network,
avirus Appeal will support vulnerable made it to the UK. prevented from reaching the UK. intelligence sharing as a “new opera- added: “This issue is clearly not going
families by providing handwashing At least 180 migrants were able to While a huge search and rescue op- tional approach”. to go away and we call on the Gov-
facilities, promoting public informa- cross the English Channel to the UK eration was launched in the Channel Numbers of migrants trying to cross ernment to establish safe and legal
tion messages on ways people can that day, which marked a new single- to deal with “a number of incidents” the English Channel have surged dur- passage.”
stay safe and protect others, and sup-
Faith leaders call for G20 to
porting health systems and aid workers
by providing training, personal pro- Like The Universe on
tective equipment, and medical sup- facebook - search:
plies for frontline responders.
Catholic Universe
CAFOD has scaled up its support
to aid workers across Africa, Asia,
Latin America, and the Middle East.
newspaper act on global debt relief
Continued from page 1 strongly criticising charging interest ing the pandemic will otherwise un-
That figure is double the approxi- and speaks against prosecuting those necessarily cause.
mately 130 million who suffered severe who cannot repay debts back.’ ‘We urge you to show the ambition
food shortages last year. In addition, The leaders also cite the words of and leadership needed to meet this
the International Labour Organisation the Holy Father: ‘In his Easter Urbi et challenge,’ they conclude.
predicts that up to 340 million jobs Orbi message of hope, Pope Francis Catholic signatories to the letter in-
could be lost. called for the reduction of the debt clude the Bishop of Clifton, Declan
Insisting on debt repayment in the that is “burdening the balance sheet Lang; the Bishop of Salford, John
face of the suffering caused by this of the poorest nations” and said that Arnold; the Bishop of Galloway,
pandemic is an ‘affront to the faith it is not right “to demand or expect William Nolan; the Bishop of Moth-
traditions that we represent’, the con- payment when the effect would lead erwell, Joseph Toal; and Fr Damian
tributors said. to hunger and despair for entire peo- Howard SJ, Provincial Superior of the
They also point out that there is an ples”.’ British Jesuits.
overarching moral case for debt relief The signatories point out that these The letter was also signed by leaders
in many faiths. are not normal times and the world from other faith groups including Ju-
‘Texts in both the Hebrew scriptures must respond accordingly. daism; Islam; the Methodist Confer-
and the New Testament call for debt ‘This crisis has emphasised the need ence; United Reformed Church; Bap-
cancellation and for making good to stand together and debt cancellation tist Union; Evangelical Alliance; and
debt relationships every seven years, represents an urgent and essential the Salvation Army, as well as heads
with a jubilee every fiftieth year,’ they means of assisting the most vulnerable of several charities, including Christian
say. ‘The Koran challenges debt by communities to withstand the suffer- Aid, Tearfund and Islamic Relief.
The Catholic Universe | Friday 17th July 2020 03
News
New Universe website supports Church rebuilding Radio 4 show
The Catholic Universe has this week
launched a completely new website
re-open after the Covid-19 pandemic.
“Throughout the lockdown we
The new website includes regular
Catholic news and commentaries
comprehensive range of high qual-
ity devotional items, at extremely
offers ‘a word
and social media platforms.
Designed and built by Creative
made a commitment to continue
publishing the print edition of The
on the big issues of the day, as well
as blogs and articles from leading
attractive and affordable prices,”
said Mr Kelly. “It is increasingly for all seasons’
Marketing Services, Leeds, the new Catholic Universe,” said Mr Kelly. Catholic commentators. Also new to hard these days to find well made As the ‘God Who Speaks’ scripture
site includes a comprehensive on- “With parishioners having no ac- the site is a comprehensive online Catholic products, so we are ex- initiative is extended through 2021 to
line shop of Catholic items and cess to churches and the sacraments shop offering religious art, original tremely pleased to be able to offer take into account the cancellation of
clergy supplies. we felt it was vital that our links to sacred products, religious hand- these to our readers and subscribers. many events planned for this year,
Commenting on the new site, the laity were maintained. We know made items and clergy supplies “There will also be some very spe- this weekend’s BBC Radio 4 Sunday
UMG Group Managing Director that receiving a Catholic paper direct from Italy. cial limited offers over the coming Worship programme comes from York-
Joseph Kelly said that it was decided throughout lockdown was hugely “We are delighted to have part- few weeks, so do register now.” shire and focuses on a special Bible-
to create a completely new and up- appreciated, but now there is a real nered with two major international • More on our new website and focused service, ‘A Word for All Sea-
dated website as churches start to need to rebuild and evangelise.” suppliers to offer a unique and shop, see page 06. sons’.
This year is the ‘Year of the Word’
Scientists in
in the Church – a chance to celebrate,
share and live out faith through deeper
scriptural engagement.
Dioceses have engaged in different
projects as part of this initiative and
stark warning
BBC Radio 4’s Sunday Worship, sched-
uled for 8.10am on Sunday 19th July,
comes from the diocese of Leeds
where priests and parishioners have
been exploring the ‘Word Unlocked’.
as UK told to Fr Michael Hall will lead ‘A Word
for All Seasons’ to reflect on how the
‘God who Speaks’ meets us in the
changing circumstances of our lives.
Fr Michael is parish priest of two
prepare for churches St Joseph’s and St Patrick’s
in Brighouse and Elland respectively.
The homily will be given by the
Diocese of Leeds’ newest priest, Fr
second wave
Henry Longbottom.
Prime Minister Boris The God Who Speaks initiative is a
Johnson – wearing a partnership between Bible Society
facemask – chats to and the Catholic Bishops’ Conference
paramedic Cindy Fu of England and Wales.
Fears that resurgence high degree of uncertainty about how during a tour of Listen to BBC Radio 4 live
the Covid-19 epidemic will evolve in Waterloo Hospital at 8.10am on Sunday 19th July
in virus combined the UK over the coming months, but 2020.
with winter flu could sets out a ‘reasonable worst-case sce-
nario’ that would see the R rate rise could be higher with a new wave of
lead to 120,000 deaths to 1.7 from September. The R refers Covid-19 this winter, but the risk of
to the number of people an infected this happening could be reduced if
A second wave of coronavirus infec- person will pass the virus on to. we take action immediately.
tions this winter could be more serious The academic modelling suggests “With relatively low numbers of The Little Way Association has received
than the first, with 120,000 hospital there could be a peak in hospital ad- Covid-19 cases at the moment, this is many urgent appeals from missionaries asking
deaths in a ‘reasonable worst-case missions and deaths in January and a critical window of opportunity to for help for desperately poor families and for
sick and needy people who are struggling in
scenario’, scientists advising the Gov- February 2021, similar to or worse help us prepare for the worst that win- the midst of the present Covid-19 crisis.
ernment have warned. than the first wave in spring 2020. It ter can throw at us.” Sr Bernadu Mary from the Franciscan Sisters
A new report from the Academy of does not include deaths in the com- He said action that was needed be- of Immaculate Heart of Mary, Pondicherry,
Medical Sciences, commissioned by munity or care homes. fore winter sets in included flu vacci- India, writes: “The situation is very grave
the Government’s chief scientific ad- The figures do not take account of nation for the vulnerable and health here for migrant workers, small vendors,
and social care workers. daily wage earners and people affected by
viser Sir Patrick Vallance, says action Government intervention to reduce diseases. (We have people living with
must be taken now to mitigate a sec- the transmission rate, or the use of The gloomy projection comes as leprosy, and 1st and 2nd generation families).
ond peak of Covid-19. the drug dexamethasone in intensive England was told it must follow the The stigma and the type of work –
It argues that hospitals could po- care units, which has been shown to example of Scotland and adopt the scavenging and begging – they have been
tentially see 120,000 Covid-19 deaths cut deaths. wearing of facemasks in all shops engaged in, make them more vulnerable to
cope with the disease. Please enable us to help families affected by leprosy.”
in between September and next June Professor Stephen Holgate, a Med- from 24th July. While scientists remain
divided over whether facemask wear- Families are battling against hunger
at the same time as battling a surge ical Research Council clinical professor
ing will make a significant impact in Heidi Caluori of Arco in Sao Paulo, Brazil, writes: “The people from the slums are the hardest hit
in demand due to usual winter pres- of immunopharmacology who led the by the virus. Not being able to work anymore means people do not receive a salary and have no
sures, including flu. study, said: “This is not a prediction, restricting the spread of the virus, the money to buy food. Families are battling against hunger. We want to continue to distribute food
The report, from 37 scientists and but it is a possibility. Government is urging the public to to the people in the surrounding slums. We need your donations!”
academics, acknowledges there is a “The modelling suggests that deaths comply with the new measure. Every penny that you send for our “hungry, sick and deprived”
fund will go intact to those who look after the very poor.
Joy for Scotland as public Mass returns Mass is offered daily for all our supporters’ intentions. Thank you so much for your
prayers and your continued practical support.
The Little Way
Association
U/17/07
Crossed POs and cheques should be sent and made
Scotland’s Catholic bishops have wel- for many months has been a source to all those who have worked tirelessly payable to: THE LITTLE WAY ASSOCIATION
comed the resumption of communal of real sadness for Scotland’s Catholics to prepare our parishes for public Sacred Heart House, 119 Cedars Rd, Clapham Common,
worship in parishes with “great joy”. and I am sure there will be great joy worship and to those who made their London SW4 0PR (Registered Charity No. 235703)
As The Catholic Universe went to at the prospect of returning.” views known to their parliamentary Tel. 020 7622 0466. www.littlewayassociation.com
press, parishes in Scotland were The bishop said the resumption of representatives and the government
I enclose £ ..................................to be allocated for:-
preparing to reopen for public wor- public Masses and other communal on the subject of communal worship,”
ship, following First Minister Nicola activities comes “thanks to the wide- Bishop Gilbert added. MISSIONARIES £............. HUNGRY, SICK AND DEPRIVED
Sturgeon’s announcement that places spread implementation of the Church’s “While thanking the Scottish Gov- NEED YOUR £............. NEEDS OF MISSIONARIES Please tick if you would
like an acknowledgement
of worship could do so from 15th July. Infection Control protocols”. ernment for listening to these calls, MASS OFFERINGS £............. WELLS AND WATER
Bishop Hugh Gilbert, president of “The bishops are extremely grateful we would remind parishioners that Your Mass offerings help £............. MASS STIPENDS (Please state no. of Masses .........)
the Bishops’ Conference of Scotland, the obligation to attend Sunday Mass to provide the missionary £............. LITTLE WAY ADMIN. EXPENSES
‘The bishops are priest’s maintenance and
said: “Over the past month, our parish- remains suspended and ask those assist him to extend the
es have been preparing for the safe grateful to all who return to do so in accordance Kingdom of God upon
Name (Rev. Mr. Mrs. Miss)
resumption of communal prayer and those who have with the infection control measures earth.
(Block letters please)
the celebration of Mass, which is at worked tirelessly in force in each parish, mindful always We like to send Address
the centre of the life of the Church. to prepare for of the need to protect themselves and a missionary a
public worship’ minimum of £5 or Email address
To have been unable to attend Mass others.” more for each Mass. To donate online go to: tinyurl.com/lwadonations
Bishop Gilbert
04 For extra news go to www.thecatholicuniverse.com
News Like us on facebook - search Catholic Universe Newspaper
Crimestoppers can
put an end to misery
of human trafficking
The Covid-19 pandemic has led to culture, construction, catering, the
more potential victims of human traf- care sector, contract cleaning, hotels
ficking and exploitation, Cardinal Vin- and hospitality, and in fishing, as well
cent Nichols has warned, as he wel- as being widespread within the sex
comed a new campaign by Crimestop- industry.
pers to combat modern slavery. Signs that someone might be a vic-
As lockdown restrictions are lifted, tim of modern slavery include:
the number of people being exploited, • Showing signs of injury, abuse
trapped and tricked into modern slav- and malnourishment Campaigners outside the Royal Courts of
ery is expected to rise. Last year, the • They look unkempt Justice, London ahead of a three-day legal
number of victims in the UK hit a • Appearing to be under the control challenge over the UK Government’s
record high, with more than 10,000 and influence of others exports of arms to Saudi Arabia.
potential victims of trafficking, slavery • Living in cramped, dirty, over- Photo: Sian Harrison/PA
and forced labour identified – men, crowded accommodation
Hypocrisy charge as
women and children. • Appearing scared, avoiding eye
But it’s feared that this is only the contact, and being untrusting
tip of the iceberg, and that there may • They’re collected very early and/or
be as many as 136,000 modern slavery returned late at night regularly
victims in the UK, according to a 2018 • May have inappropriate clothing
green light given to
survey by the Walk Free Foundation. for the work they are performing,
Cardinal Nichols, president of the and/or a lack of safety equipment
Santa Marta Group, has added his While it may be difficult to be sure
that modern slavery is happening,
Warning that anyone who does suspect that some-
Covid-19 ‘has
produced more
slavery victims’
Cardinal Nichols
thing is not right is being urged to
pass their suspicions on to Crimestop-
pers’ anonymously
This information could result in
helping to free victims from danger
Saudi arms exports
The Government has been accused which reflects a narrow focus on se- of IHL and had “made no attempt to
voice to the Crimestoppers’ #Slavery- and ensure they receive the support of making a “morally indefensible” curing the profits from arms sales to do so”.
onYourDoorstep campaign that seeks they need from specialist agencies, decision in resuming arms sales to Saudi Arabia is out of step with current But Ms Truss said an analysis had
to get anonymous information from as well as help bring those behind Saudi Arabia despite concerns they calls to put people at the centre in the now been carried out of “all credible
the public to help potential victims the heinous crime to justice. could be used against civilians in shared future for all of humanity.” incidents of concern”.
of this under-reported crime. However, due to Crimestoppers’ Yemen. The Government’s decision was While some had been assessed as
“The pandemic has affected vul- anonymity guarantee, it can’t take in- International Trade Secretary Liz condemned as “rank hypocrisy” by “possible” violations of IHL, the analy-
nerable people disproportionally,” formation from victims of crime. Any- Truss ruled there was no pattern of the Campaign Against Arms Trade sis had not revealed any “patterns,
said Cardinal Nichols. “This has led one who thinks they may have come deliberate breaches of international (CAAT), which brought the original trends or systemic weaknesses”.
to more potential victims of human across a victim of modern slavery in humanitarian law (IHL) involving UK- successful case against the UK’s arms “It is noted, in particular, that the
trafficking and exploitation. The need of help is being urged to contact made weaponry in the conflict. sales to Saudi Arabia last summer. incidents which have been assessed
Catholic Church’s Santa Marta Group The Salvation Army, who provide spe- In a Commons written statement, Andrew Smith, of the CAAT, said its to be possible violations of IHL oc-
seeks to help victims, and potential cialist support to adult victims of slav- she said the Saudis had a ‘genuine lawyers would now be looking at “all curred at different times, in different
victims, of human trafficking by work- ery, by calling their free 24-hour con- intent’ to comply with IHL and that options” to challenge the Govern- circumstances and for different rea-
ing with law enforcement agencies fidential helpline on 0800 808 3733. military exports could resume. ment’s decision. sons. The conclusion is that these are
across the world to combat this evil The UK Modern Slavery Helpline However, the decision was con- “This is a disgraceful and morally isolated incidents,” she said.
crime and assist the victims.” is available 24/7 to offer confidential demned as “morally bankrupt” by bankrupt decision.” “In the light of that analysis, I have
People can back the #Slaveryon advice and support for any victim, campaigners whose legal action forced In June 2019, then international concluded that, notwithstanding iso-
YourDoorstep campaign by helping statutory agency, business, or member the Government to halt arms sales to trade secretary Liam Fox announced lated incidents which have been fac-
to spot victims and telling Crimestop- of the public regarding modern slavery the Saudis in June 2019. the Government would not issue any tored into the analysis as historic vi-
pers about them, 100 per cent anony- suspicions or concerns. Trained ad- Ms Truss’ Labour shadow, Emily new licences after the Court of Appeal olations of IHL, Saudi Arabia has a
mously, so that the necessary support visers are on hand to help. Call free Thornberry, also said that “even by ruled sales would be unlawful. genuine intent to comply with IHL.
can be provided by specialist agencies, on 08000 121 700. this Government’’ standards, their de- It followed claims that Saudi war- “There is not a clear risk that the
and action can be taken against the Those with any information about cision to resume the sale of arms to planes fighting in the coalition against export of arms and military equipment
criminals involved. the mistreatment of workers, or labour Saudi Arabia for use in Yemen is moral- Iranian-backed Houthi rebels had re- to Saudi Arabia might be used in the
People are being urged to help end providers operating without a licence ly indefensible”. peatedly targeted civilian gatherings commission of a serious violation of
modern slavery by making themselves or a business, can contact the Gang- Catholic peace movement Pax including weddings, funerals and mar- IHL.”
aware of what to look for and where masters & Labour Abuse Authority by Christi UK accused the Government kets. Ms Truss said the Government
to look for it. phoning 0800 432 0804. of being “out of step” with calls for a In its judgment, the court said the would now begin the process of clear-
Modern slavery can typically take To find out more about the shared future for all of humanity Government had failed to make any ing the backlog of licence applications
place on car wash sites and in nail #SlaveryonYourDoorstep campaign Theresa Alessandro, director of Pax assessment of whether the Saudis and for Saudi Arabia and its coalition part-
bars. The crime also goes on in agri- see: crimestoppers-uk.org Christi UK said that “Decision-making their allies had committed violations ners that had built up since last year.
Backing Lord’s bill is best way to help slavery victims, says CARE
Social policy charity Christian Action for the Government to achieve this with the possibility of an extension if would guarantee rescued victims at “Sadly, the injustice of slavery is
Research & Education (CARE) has end is by supporting the Modern Slav- their needs require it. least 12 months support. not just in our history, it is here with
welcomed calls from the Centre for ery (Victim Support) Bill. The CSJ’s report includes new analy- Welcoming the CSJ’s commendation us today, in communities all across
Social Justice (CSJ) for the UK Gov- Lord McColl’s Bill would guarantee sis which suggests the number of peo- of the McColl Bill, Nola Leach, CARE’s the United Kingdom,” Ms Leach con-
ernment to back Lord McColl’s Mod- confirmed victims of modern slavery ple in modern slavery in the UK could CEO, said: “In communities across tinued. “It’s vital that rescued victims
ern Slavery (Victim Support) Bill. in England and Wales statutory sup- be as high as 100,000, although the our nation there are people in do- of modern slavery receive the best
In a new report the CSJ recom- port both to protect them from the real number could be higher still. In mestic servitude, victims of labour quality care and assistance if they are
mended that the Government should risk of destitution, homelessness, or 2018, the Walk Free Foundation esti- exploitation or sexual exploitation, to avoid destitution, homelessness or
improve support for victims of modern re-trafficking and to help them rebuild mated the number could be 136,000. hidden in plain sight. re-trafficking.”
slavery by enshrining their rights in their lives. CARE supported Lord McColl’s pre- “This new report from the Centre However, Ms Leach stressed that
law. This would include financial assis- vious modern slavery support Bill in for Social Justice highlights the awful victims need support to be enshrined
It Still Happens Here: Fighting UK tance, accommodation, the right to the 2017-19 Parliament and is once reality of modern slavery here in the in law, so they’ve got the confidence
Slavery in the 2020s says the best way remain all for a period of 12 months again backing the current Bill which UK, in the 2020s. of knowing they’ll not be let down.
The Catholic Universe | Friday 17th July 2020 05
News
Big Jack was an English, Irish hero
Nick Benson the two countries. “Though born in Ashington, humbly presented his brother Bobby with BBC
The Westminster Chaplain for Sport has paid Northumberland and a winner with Leeds Sports Personality of the Year Lifetime Achieve-
tribute to Jack Charlton, a football legend in United and England, he transformed the Irish ment trophy in 2008, while stating: “Bobby
both England and Ireland and a man of “in- team.” Charlton is the greatest player I’ve ever seen.
tegrity and very rare character”. Mgr Felzmann recalled how in 1994 Big Jack And he’s my brother.”
England, Ireland and the sporting world was made a Freeman of the city of Dublin, but “Jack was a Geordie who admitted that during
were in mourning last weekend following the that wasn’t his only Irish honour: in 1996, the Irish team’s audience with Pope John Paul
death of World Cup winner Charlton at the Charlton and his wife, Pat were made honorary II, he dozed off. When he woke up, he seemed
age of 85. The much-loved football legend died Irish citizens, only seventh and eighth persons to see His Holiness waving at him. It was prob-
at his home in Northumberland on Friday, to be so decorated. ably a blessing. So, he waved back.
10th July after suffering from lymphoma and “An honorary Irishman – with an Irish pass- “I see him now, waving at us – whatever our
dementia. port – he was probably the country’s greatest origin, colour, race, gender or creed – to bring
Mgr Vladimir Felzmann led tributes to the ever sporting figure – and certainly its most the whole of humanity into a team whose op-
footballing great who was, he said, equally influential. He was easily the most famous ponent is not a football formation but a global
loved in England and Ireland for the major person in Ireland for a decade – and the most virus,” Mgr Felzman concluded.
roles he played in the country’s national tri- celebrated,” said Mgr Felzmann. Among the swathes of sport stars paying
umphs – winning the World Cup with England “To keep him ‘one of ours’ this side of the tribute to Charlton was former Liverpool mid-
in 1966 and leading the Republic of Ireland to Irish sea, in 1997 he was appointed a DL: fielder Ray Houghton, who was handed his
their first major finals at Euro 1988 and the Deputy Lieutenant of Northumberland,” the Republic debut in Charlton’s first match in
World Cup quarter-finals at Italia 1990. chaplain added. charge of the side in 1986.
“Jack Charlton was a very rare character; He also spoke of Charlton’s “genius and loy- Describing his former boss as “a larger than
not only in who he was but what he achieved. alty”, noting how he had spent his entire club life character”, Houghton told talkSPORT: “The
He was a true ‘Good Samaritan’,” Mgr Felzmann, career with Leeds United from 1950 to 1973 word legend is used too much in football but
CEO of the John Paul II Foundation for Sport, and remains beloved by Leeds fans to this day. not for Jack.”
told The Catholic Universe. “He had integrity, was down to earth, genuine, He said Charlton “changed everything about
The chaplain questioned whether there are quirky, funny and warm; a great family man Irish football” and that “his legacy within
any other sports personality so venerated in and friend,” he said, recalling how Charlton Ireland is absolutely huge”.
The auxiliary Bishop of
Liverpool, Tom Williams,
during last week’s Mass
for Carers. Screenshot by
The Catholic Universe
Praise for our society’s
modern stonemasons
Nick Benson 40 years experience, and it’s a privilege
The auxiliary Bishop of Liverpool has to be able to use my skills and crafts
expressed his thanks to carers, whom in this way with the gifts that God
he likened to stonemasons carving has given me’,” Bishop Williams said.
the presence of Christ for the sick and “The third mason simply said,
vulnerable. ‘Thanks to you, I’m building a beautiful
Speaking during last week’s Mass cathedral’,” he added.
for Carers and all of those affected by The bishop explained that while all
the Covid-19 pandemic, Bishop Tom three answers were “excellent”, only
Williams, who worked as a hospital one had the “extra vision and under-
chaplain for many years, heralded the standing of the whole picture – and
tireless efforts of front-line carers. especially of his own small but es-
The bishop spoke of a well-known sential part in what the architects
tale, which, although he acknowledged wonderful design was to become”.
may be fictitious, is still worth telling. “If that story is true, and I hope it
Recalling the tale, Bishop Williams is, I hope also that Sir Christopher
said Sir Christopher Wren, the architect Wren gave the job of carving the cor-
of St Paul’s Cathedral in London, paid nerstone of that cathedral to that same
a visit to the site in the middle of its third mason,” he said.
construction and asked three stone- “As people of faith, we believe that
masons, who were busy getting on Jesus Christ, our Saviour, our seat of
with their work, what they were doing wisdom and understanding is our cor-
and why. nerstone. And we are His great design
“He received three contrasting an- – His cathedral,” said Bishop Williams.
swers,” Bishop Williams said during Offering a special thank you to those
his homily at the Mass, which was who form the Caritas network of Eng-
celebrated in the Blessed Sacrament land and Wales, the bishop said the
Chapel of Liverpool’s Metropolitan Mass was especially for them.
Cathedral of Christ the King, on Thurs- Speaking further on Caritas, he
day 9th July. added: “Thanks to all of you. Each of
“The first replied, ‘I’m carving this you is working on that same work-
piece of stone as best as I am able. It’s bench of our cathedral. Each of you
my job. I have a wife and three children have been stonemasons, carving the
to feed. And this is how I do it.’ The presence of Christ to those you meet
second said, ‘I am a stonemason of – whether you know it or not.
06 For extra news go to www.thecatholicuniverse.com
Announcement
The Universe
– Comment – Reaching out to fellow Catholics
We’re still here for
you – every week! as we adapt to the ‘new normal’
Joseph
Kelly
As the world moves through the next
stages of the Covid-19 pandemic,
“The Government has the duty to
we’re all learning to live with new
guarantee care and material suste-
lifestyles and ways of working.
nance for the people – but we have
Sadly, many job losses have been
the duty to do the same for their
announced this week, with more to
souls. May it never be said: ‘I’m never
follow as the days go by.
going back to a Church where no one
The economic impact of these
came to find me when I needed help.’”
losses will hit families and individ-
Those words of our Holy Father
uals hard, especially as new jobs will
Pope Francis were delivered through
be extremely hard to come by.
a letter to the priests of Rome on 13th
There will also be the knock-on
March, just as Covid-19 pandemic
consequences of lost spending
was becoming a global crisis.
money in local communities. It is
As a Catholic publisher that has
said that every job loss results in a
served the laity faithfully since 1860,
further three being lost.
the words of Pope Francis were for us
At times like these it is vital that
an unambiguous call to action.
the Catholic Church is present, as a
We made an immediate decision to
welcoming and understanding
continue producing the print edition
refuge in troubled days.
of this newspaper because we know
As well as spiritual care, many
it provides a vital link between so
parishes will strive to offer practical
many Catholics and their Church.
support to neighbours, friends and
Of course, none of us anticipated
others who have fallen on desperate
the fateful decision on 24th March to
circumstances.
close down our churches completely.
With immense borrowings to
Future historians and academics
repay it’s highly unlikely that the
will have to speculate on what led to
Government will be able or willing
the Catholics of these islands being
to offer much meaningful support to
deprived of the sacraments for the
communities and individuals whose
first time in Christian history.
financial circumstances have been
For us at The Catholic Universe, it direct home subscription, so a very nies and heals the people” as we plete and, if necessary, to correct the
hit by the pandemic.
was an unexpected and heavy blow, warm welcome to our rapidly grow- emerge from the ravages of Covid-19. news and comments about religion
None of our current legislators
cutting us off at a moment’s notice ing global family of readers. For sure, global responses and and the Christian life.
have had any experience of such a
from so many of those we serve. As the lockdown eases and church- global solutions will be needed, but “At one and the same time it will be
seismic catastrophe, and there are
Thankfully the majority of our es open their doors once again, there the strength of the Catholic Church a glass that reflects the world and a
few blueprints by which to rebuild
priests have been quite incredible in has been much discussion about the has always been its application of light to show it the way.”
the social fabric of our nations.
their support, and in their own deter- future shape and direction our subsidiarity, and it’s dependence on In the online world, providing a
The Church, however, can offer
mination to keep in touch with their Church should take in the months, the three key principles of simplicity, place where people can find incisive
proven templates on which to re-
flock in whatever ways possible. and even years, ahead. family life and prayer. and relevant Catholic commentaries
build a compassionate and equitable
Across the world also we have seen The need to rely on the internet It is through smaller actions that on world and domestic affairs is also
society. In particular our large body
countless examples of inspiring cre- and social media to communicate the bigger Catholic Church will begin vital. That is why we have this week
of social teaching presents a
ativity and resolve from our beloved over recent months has opened new to rebuild and renew itself. launched a new and completely up-
‘ground-up’ vision of a society that
clergy in keeping the physical mani- avenues for evangelisation, and there The good news is that – as we re- dated website, social media platforms
firstly supports the marginalised
festations of our faith alive for us. have been profound conversations turn to our parishes – we can all play and an exciting new online shop
and most vulnerable, which in turn
Closer to home we have seen about the nature of worship, and the a vital part in this evangelisation. offering a wide range of inspiring
creates the framework for a sustain-
priests and parishioners delivering role of physical buildings in our faith. “Therefore go and make disciples gifts and Catholic items and clergy
able and enduring economy.
The Catholic Universe to isolated Whatever else we decide it’s clear of all nations,” Jesus asked of us. supplies for you to order.
The Catholic Church worked very
friends; we have seen churches pro- there’s a job to be done in terms of Evangelisation takes many forms – If you head over now to
closely with the Government on
viding our paper outside, and even at getting the Catholic message ‘out it can move nations, but it moves in- www.thecatholicuniverse.com and
Covid-19 – it’s now time to use those
the back, of our churches. there’. Now more than at any time in dividuals first and one small act can register with your email address, you’ll
same close partnerships to plan for
We have seen generous sponsors recent history, our faith has critically change many lives for the better. receive our regular news updates,
all our futures.
come forward and cover the cost of important and relevant things to say If you want to know how your faith special offers and the chance to buy
The Universe
Keep safe, and keep the faith! their parish newspaper deliveries, to society – about spirituality and sal- can help you to shape a better world, fabulous limited edition Catholic
and in cases where a parish found it- vation, health and morality, human it pays to read a Catholic newspaper products at very special rates.
self in financial difficulties, we agreed dignity, equality, politics, the envi- regularly. The Pastoral Instruction On behalf of our Chairman and all
Editor: Joseph Kelly
to supply their Catholic paper free of ronment and the future of our planet. Communio et Progressio (Vatican, the staff at The Catholic Universe,
Email: joseph.kelly@ charge until they re-opened. Pope Francis has spoken recently 1971) states: “It is the task of the thank you for your invaluable support
thecatholicuniverse.com Many of you have taken out a of a Church that “consoles, accompa- Catholic press to balance, to com- for our apostolate of the Catholic press.
Universe Media Group Limited,
2nd Floor, Oakland House,
76 Talbot Road, Manchester M16 0PQ
News items:
pool@thecatholicuniverse.com
All enquiries:
Tel: 0161 820 5722
Subscription rates:
(Basic) £72 UK; 104€ Ireland/Europe.
(Annual) £105 UK; 140€ Ireland/Europe.
To subscribe, please use the order form in this
issue or call 0161 820 5722.
The Catholic Universe | Friday 17th July 2020 07
News
SPUC backs brave MP after
abortionists post vile threats
The Society for the Protection of Un- continually eroded. This is currently Dr Lisa Cameron with a bouquet of white flowers,
born Children (SPUC) said it is stand- a police matter and I would be grateful given to her by SPUC on behalf of all its members
ing in solidarity with a Scottish MP if people could respect my family’s
who received a death threat after vot- privacy.”
ing in accordance with her deeply Michael Robinson, SPUC director
held pro-life beliefs. of communications, said he was ap-
Dr Lisa Cameron, SNP MP for East palled by the vitriol directed towards
Kilbride, Strathaven and Lesmahagow,
received the death threat just days
the MP. “Dr Lisa Cameron MP has
been targeted with hate and intoler-
ance because of her deeply held belief
MP looks to
after she voted against a Bill that
would have banned pro-life vigils out-
side abortion clinics.
that everyone deserves the right to
life. It is especially despicable to target
protect new
Dr Cameron called the police when
she discovered the message on her
her through her family,” he said.
“Vilification is now routinely used mums’ jobs
Facebook account and officers are as a tactic by pro-abortion advocates
Nick Benson
now in possession of the contents. to crush debate and invite hateful at-
Pro-lifers have urged the Government
The vile note said that the sender tacks on those with a differing opinion.
to support and protect women who
planned to kill an elderly relative – Those who believe in democracy need
are pregnant or on maternity leave
whom Dr Cameron does not wish to to expose the culprits responsible and
from being discriminated against by
identify – and referred to the MP as defend genuine democratic values.”
employers.
‘ya fat slag’. Mr Robinson insisted that “as a so-
Life Charity’s call comes after Tory
Dr Cameron said: “I am concerned ciety we must respect and defend
former minister Maria Miller recently
by the actions of those who have freedom of conscience”.
presented her 10-minute-rule bill, the
whipped up hatred and toxic aggres- SPUC presented a bouquet of white
Pregnancy and Maternity (Redundan-
sion online in recent weeks following flowers to Dr Cameron on behalf of
cy Protection) Bill in the Commons.
from my conscience votes on abortion all its members as a token of its sup- in Nazi Germany.” sage. People can also include a per-
The bill seeks to prohibit employers
and particularly distressed to have port, with Mr Robinson saying it was Describing Dr Cameron as “a valiant sonal message to Dr Cameron.
from making women redundant from
once again received a death threat a privilege to do so in acknowledge- MP who has spoken out fearlessly in • To add your name to the thank
the time they are pregnant to six
towards my family. ment of Dr Cameron’s votein accor- defence of unborn babies”, SPUC is you message, see:
months after they return to work from
“Unfortunately, it is becoming more dance of her conscience on pro-life asking all those who acknowledge the www.spuc.org.uk/ Events/SPUC-
maternity leave. The only exceptions
difficult for Christians MPs to be able matters. The type of flowers was sig- importance of free speech and dem- says-thank-you-with-flowers?fbcli
would be that the business is closing
to vote on matters of conscience freely nificant, he said: “SPUC’s symbol is a ocratic values, to stand in solidarity d=IwAR0-WvH15RJw1-
down or ceasing work in that area.
due to safety concerns, as freedom of white flower, copied from the White with Dr Cameron by adding their qMT0YsaPcjaSwBLpbM-tbrTfx6OV
Women who experience stillbirth
religious belief appears to be being Rose non-violent resistance movement names to the online thank you mes- h46zjuwFm4K7ZXy4Y
or miscarriage would similarly be pro-
tected.
Pro-life councillor resigns amid new
“Despite the real legal protections
set out by law to outlaw discrimination
against pregnant women and new
mums, more than 50,000 women a
calls for SDLP leader to stand down year feel that they have no choice but
to leave their jobs when they are preg-
nant,” said Mrs Miller. “One in 20 of
those were made redundant.”
Nick Benson and the right to life,” she said. other member has a responsibility to Mrs Miller said that under current
A Northern Ireland councillor has re- “I followed in his footsteps and held represent its members and voters on laws, some employers are making
signed from her political party over the right to life and the life of the un- such a life and death issue. pregnant women “compete for an al-
its stance on abortion. born child as the cornerstone of my “Sinn Féin lobbied for Westminster ternative post when they are giving
Stephanie Quigley announced that political philosophy. I must place the to impose this extreme abortion bill birth or have just given birth”.
she was quitting the Social Democratic rights of those without a voice ahead on the north against the will of the She told MPs: “It is wrong that given
and Labour Party (SDLP) but would of populism.” people, against the devolved deter- our legislation so many women should
remain on Causeway Coast and Glens Cllr Quigley’s resignation comes af- mination of the Good Friday Agree- be fearful of losing their jobs simply
Borough Council as an independent. ter the SDLP leadership was criticised ment and against every definition of because they are pregnant.”
Announcing her resignation, Cllr by pro-lifers for siding with Westmin- Irish Republicanism. She said her bill would protect preg-
Quigley, whose father Gerry McLaugh- ster and Sinn Féin in forcing abortion “However Sinn Féin have long given nant women and new mothers from
lin was also an SDLP councillor in on demand into the north of Ireland. up the pretence of support for the such a fate.
Coleraine for over two decades, said Last month, Peadar Tóibín TD, human right to life. The SDLP went Liz Parsons, Life’s director of advo-
she made the “really difficult but im- leader of the all-Ireland political party to every door in the north of Ireland cacy welcomed the bill, saying that
portant decision” as the right to life is Aontú Leader, called on SDLP mem- in the election six months ago and the charity knows from its own expe-
at the core of her politics, Derry Now bers to remove Colum Eastwood as reaffirmed that the party supported riences of dealing directly with thou-
reported. their leader, after Mr Eastwood voted human rights,” he said, adding that sands of pregnant women and new
“As we journey through life there for abortion up until birth in certain Mr Eastwood’s vote “made that pre- mothers how anxious they are about
are always ‘crossroads’ moments and cases in Westminster. “That the lead- tence impossible in the future”. possibly losing their job. “In any mod-
today I have made a really difficult ership of the SDLP would vote for “Can SDLP members, councillors ern working environment, pregnancy
but important decision to be an in- lifetime friends in the SDLP and I’ll such a level of cruel discrimination and MLAs continue to work for a party and motherhood should be celebrated
dependent councillor,” she said. always be grateful for that.” shows how far that party has travelled that uses its votes to strip away such without women having to worry about
“I have had the privilege to work “The philosophy which my father in such a short time,” he continued. vital human rights?” Mr Tóibín asked loss of employment,” Ms Parsons told
alongside great people and make some espoused was based on non-violence “The leader of a party more than any following the vote. The Catholic Universe. “Current laws
do not go far enough to protect women
and employers are able to work around
Judge tells Christian agency to accept gay foster parents the regulations to make these women
redundant.”
An evangelical Christian fostering the agency discriminates by only work- the act “insofar as it requires applicants not lawfully refuse to do so”. Ms Parsons cited a study last year
agency which only places children ing with evangelical Christian carers to refrain from homosexual conduct”. Cornerstone, which is based in Sun- by The Department for Business En-
with heterosexual married couples in mixed-sex marriages. The judge said his judgment meant derland, said the judge had vindicated ergy and Industrial Strategy, which
must allow gay men and lesbians to But Mr Justice Julian Knowles ruled that Cornerstone “must change its re- its legal action against the watchdog found that one in nine women said
foster as well, a judge has ruled. that Cornerstone’s insistence that ap- cruitment policy to allow gay men by upholding its right to recruit only they had been fired or made redun-
Cornerstone (North East) Adoption plicants are evangelical Christians and lesbians who are evangelical evangelical Christians. It would con- dant when they returned to work after
and Fostering Service took Ofsted to does not breach the Equality Act. Christians to apply to become sider appealing against the ruling over having a child, or were treated so
court over the watchdog’s finding that But he said its policy does breach prospective foster parents and it can- same sex couples, it said. badly they felt forced out of their job.
08 For extra news go to www.thecatholicuniverse.com
Comment Follow the Catholic Universe on twitter @ukcatholicpress
Co-operation
needed now Sorry Auntie, the game is up as
more than ever
John
far as my licence is concerned
Battle
Breaking out of lockdown and
forming a ‘family bubble’ enabled
us to take the grandchildren out
for the first time in months. We Leon
went to the newly reopened Eden
Camp near Malton in Yorkshire, Spence
where some 1,500 Italian and Ger-
man prisoners of war were held in
Being a columnist for the Catholic
the 1940s. It has been preserved as
Universe is a year-round job. Save
a war museum of maps and ob-
for the odd bout of technical diffi-
jects, images and taped sounds re-
culties I sit and write this column
licating those days.
every week faithfully, to bring you
Each of the 29 huts has a theme:
the benefit of my wisdom – or at
the ‘rise of Hitler’, ‘the home front’,
least my ramblings.
‘women at war’, ‘the Blitz’, a ‘mess
Normally I sit at my dining room
hut’, ‘RAF bomber command and
table with my laptop gathering my
the escape lines’ and the ‘music
thoughts, but it doesn’t matter
hall’ to name a few.
where in the world I am, as I still
There is one reconstructing the
manage to take the time to pen this
trenches of World War One and my
column.
grandchildren’s favourite, the U-
Little beknown to you you’ve had
boat, which replicates the sounds
columns written inside hospitals, on
experienced in a submarine attack.
cross channels ferries and from the
We came a couple of years ago
45th floor of a Las Vegas hotel.
but this time it was the charts,
All things being equal, and
maps and explanations that in-
planned for the better part of a year,
trigued the eight-year-old rather
I was supposed to be sat writing to-
than the visual and auditory expe-
day’s column from the balcony of a
rience. What came out were the
Disney World hotel which we had
‘why’ questions. What caused the
hoped to be enjoying as a ‘last’ fam-
war? How many died? Was Leeds
ily holiday now that my daughter
bombed? Did my father and
has ended her secondary school ca-
grandfather get involved or in-
reer.
jured? Who was to blame? What
With just one child now left of
countries became involved? And
school age we figured it was going to
most challenging, ‘why did no-
be our final opportunity for a big
body stop it happening?’ ‘Couldn’t
family jaunt. In all likelihood, if a
they have talked to each other?’.
vaccine ever does materialise, next
We are presently in an age of dif- I had never understood the gentle No one really had an answer. our license fee.
year will be too late.
ficult geo-politics with the United appeal of Midsomer Murders, and to Apart from the fact that really you My mum, quite rightly, hasn’t had
In the scheme things it’s not a big
States pulling back from any inter- realise that there are quite so many have to buy one. You have to have to pay for a television license for
deal; countless families have suf-
national roles, Britain turning in- of them is – I’m uncertain – either a one if you use the iPlayer – I can years but starting this August she
fered far more than ours during this
ward, the UN and international blessing or a curse. kind of understand that, you’re mak- will have to do so once more.
lockdown period, but we wouldn’t
organisations such as the World Have you noticed, though, in that ing a positive choice and are digest- A settlement agreed upon by the
be human if we weren’t all a little
Trade Organisation and the World list of subscriptions there is one ing content that the BBC have pro- Government and BBC for the broad-
disappointed.
Health being disparaged and run name that is missing? duced. caster to fund licence fees for the
There’s nothing wrong with that,
down and China and Russia in- I don’t think I’ve watched any BBC But equally you have to have one elderly as part of their charter re-
it’s OK to be disheartened as long as
creasingly filling the vacuum by TV at all, for that matter – the odd if you watch any live TV at all. It newal has been reneged upon,
we realise that we need to to be
taking illegal liberties. International Sky News broadcast aside – I’m not doesn’t have to be the BBC that meaning thousands of pensioners
grateful for the positives, too.
co-operation is declining, as the sure I’ve watch any live television you’re watching – in fact I never do. will now face a bill or the risk of be-
While over the years many of the
looming conflict over the distribu- since lockdown began. But for those altogether infrequent ing criminalised.
quotes that I use to illustrate a point
tion of any Covid vaccine demon- Where at one stage I would have visits to Sky News? That’s £157.50 At a time when as an organisation
are the words of great orators and
strates. It was the Catholic philos- known the television schedules like please! the BBC is increasingly fixated on
intellectuals, poignancy can equally
opher Jacques Maritain who the back of my hand I’m not even I’m relatively fortunate. I can af- young people and it’s ‘woke’ agenda;
often come from the inside of greet-
helped establish the international sure the continue to exist in 2020 ford to pay £157.50 for something I at a time the broadcaster is able to
ing cards.
UN Charter of Human Rights after like they used to do, do they? don’t really use. I want to make sure pay exorbitant wages to its top stars;
And when I think of where I am
the Second World War. The I know, for example, BBC3 still I’m acting within the law and I can’t at a time when local news produc-
typing this and where I was sup-
Church’s social encyclicals from produces output – for whom I’m not guarantee that one of my children tion is being drastically cut back on
posed to be my mind turns to that
the 1960s idealistically proposed a sure – but it doesn’t have a ‘channel’ wouldn’t watch something on, say, and allegations of news bias become
cheesiest of all verses ‘Everyone
system of ‘world government’. anymore, you won’t find it through Channel 4 or open iPlayer in a mo- more common, the broadcaster is
wants happiness, no one wants
This was the week of a G20 your remote control in the tradi- ment of boredom. facing a difficult future.
pain. But you can’t have the rainbow
meeting to address international tional sense. So, I guess like many people, I’ve But more importantly at a time
without a little rain.’
challenges. Our Compendium of Funnily enough I asked my wife just gone on paying and complained when viewers are disappearing and
Of course I’ve been spending lock-
the Social Doctrine of the Church whether she has been watching any about it. there are strong voices calling for an
down in the same way as many of
spells out that ‘processes of nego- BBC recently? She answered that she But it’s getting harder and harder end to the licence fee itself, now is
you will have been doing.
tiation, mediation, conciliation watches the Great British Sewing Bee to do that. not the time to charge our elderly.
I’ve sat working at my computer,
and arbitration that are provided (whatever that is) on iPlayer, but My mum is 84 years old, like me So my mind is made up. I’ve spo-
I’ve been out daily for exercise and
for in international law must be aside from that the answer was ‘no’. she never watches the BBC either ken with my family and we’ve all
I’ve watched television. A lot of it.
supported with the creation of a So I asked my children if they these days. It’s not a conscious deci- agreed we can live without iPlayer. I
My word, I can’t believe how much
totally effective juridical authority watched the BBC or live television? sion she’s made, it’s just that she’s will offer the money to my mum to
television that there is.
in a peaceful world, (as St Pope Once again from all three the answer found something she prefers. She pay for her licence fee.
I’m thankful that I’ve been able to
John Paul II urged), adding that came back negative. loves the programmes on ‘Channel I can certainly live without the
watch Netflix and Amazon Prime,
‘the Church is a companion on the There is, of course, a follow up 20’ apparently and although that is BBC and not notice the difference,
Now TV and YouTube. As a family we
journey towards an authentic in- question to be asked here – and it’s apparently a wholly owned sub- I’m sure many of you are in the same
have subscriptions to Disney+, NFL
ternational community’. one which I did – ‘then why on earth sidiary of the BBC’s commercial boat.
Gamepass for the sport and surpris-
We cannot halt now and leave it am I spending £157.50 every year for arm, she seldom ventures to the Leon is a writer, political
ingly what has become a favourite –
to future generations. a TV licence that none of us use?’ BBC channels we pay for through commentator and charity trustee
Britbox. Having never seen it before
You can also read
