A breath of fresh air blew into Christianity in York and the world as Dr John, our new Archbishop, urged us to be proud of our Christian and English heritage and traditions.
We, the 70% Christians in the last census, should look to form friendships with people of different faiths and beliefs, colour, and race as equals, without trying to convert them to our convictions.
If we do, he says, everybody in our developing multicultural society will gain from the renewed christian ethics and joy for life. It will also awaken admiration resulting in respect and reciprocal reaction around the world.
That's a good message for a troubled world; not just to be passing on but to be on the receiving end of too.
It can't be against the aims of religion anywhere but there is always the overriding question in joint activity by mortals, who like to see some immediate, tangible and personal benefit from their efforts; even the least selfish amongst them. WHAT'S IN IT FOR ME?
That's no reason not to try. Good luck Dr John and those who follow you. I find that friendliness usually emanates from a smile.
Updated: 12:03 Saturday, December 03, 2005
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