An ad hoc journal/newsletter by His Grace, ✠Jerome Seleisi, providing informative news and thoughtful reflections to enlighten, educate, and inspire action.
w/c 04.xii.23
Ordo w/c 10.xii.23
| 10 SUN | 11 MON | 12 TUE | 13 WED | 14 THU | 15 FRI | 16 SAT |
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| SUNDAY ADVENT II Conception Octave | Feria of Advent II Conception Octave | Feria of Advent II Conception Octave | S. Lucy Virgin & Martyr Conception Octave | Feria of Advent II Conception Octave | Octave Day Conception BVM | S. Eusebius Bishop & Martyr |
Warrior Teacher Training
Over the past three months, I have had the privilege of participating in The Winning Mindset’s training course, which aims to cultivate “Warrior Teachers” capable of challenging the prevailing mindset. The Winning Mindset is an organization that recognizes the necessity for a more balanced and discerning approach to engaging with the information-rich world we inhabit. Their educational seminars are specifically designed to inspire individuals to think deeply and critically, fostering personal growth and development. By refining these skills, individuals can enhance their ability to counter popular arguments and challenge the prevailing mindset.
In a society often dominated by exaggeration and manipulation, The Winning Mindset offers a refreshing alternative. Their approach encourages individuals to question dominant narratives and seek a more nuanced comprehension of complex issues. By equipping individuals with the tools to think critically and articulate themselves effectively, The Winning Mindset empowers them to confront the prevailing mindset and contribute to a more well-informed and thoughtful society. By becoming “Warrior Teachers,” we can challenge the prevailing mindset and promote a more balanced and enlightened society. As one participant writes:
“It’s been really fun and informative, and I would recommend it to anyone who is trying to make sense of the current social and media landscape. My cohort has so far looked into history, sociology, philosophy, psychology, and culture and though it’s been head scratching at times, it’s been satisfying to connect the dots and I’m eagerly waiting for the next session. It’s not free but I don’t think anything of value is, and unlike a pre-recorded course it is enthusiastically delivered via Teams, by “the Jester” himself, every month. Don’t let the name fool you, you don’t have to be a teacher or a warrior to take part, you just have to be curious and have a thirst for knowledge and sense-making.”
Please do consider joining us and becoming part of a grassroots movement that aims to enable you to make a difference, we owe it to the next generation. There are a limited number of places available to ensure sessions are interactive and all can contribute to discussions, so please do apply as soon as possible. In the event that it fills up quickly do not worry as there will be other start dates in the near future.
PSHEbrighton
My week began with a meeting of my co founders of PSHEbrighton, a dedicated and passionate support and campaign group that was established with the noble aim of assisting families in Brighton & Hove who have genuine concerns with the delivery of Personal, Social, Health, and Economic Education (PSHE) and Relationships and Sex Education (RSE) in local schools. This meeting served as a platform for us to come together, exchange ideas, and strategize on how we can effectively address the pressing issues surrounding these crucial aspects of education.
One major concern that was discussed at length during the meeting was the recruitment and retention of third-party organizations in schools. It was unanimously agreed upon that this is an area that requires immediate attention and action. The presence of these organizations, while intended to provide additional resources and support, can sometimes lead to unintended consequences. There is a genuine worry that some of these organizations may have vested interests and could potentially promote harmful ideologies and unscientific information to vulnerable and sensitive children.
In light of these concerns, it was decided that PSHEbrighton would take proactive steps to raise awareness and educate parents, families, and the wider community about the potential risks associated with the involvement of third-party organizations in schools. This includes organizing conferences and events that provide a platform for local parents, families, and allies to come together, share their concerns, and collectively work towards ensuring the delivery of accurate and unbiased information in the field of PSHE and RSE.
With great excitement, we announce that the first PSHEbrighton conference is scheduled to take place on Friday, April 12th 2024. This conference is specifically designed for local parents, families, and allies who are deeply concerned about the implementation of the Personal Social Health Economic syllabus and Relationships & Sex Education in Brighton & Hove schools. It will serve as an invaluable opportunity for attendees to gain insights, share experiences, and collectively voice their concerns in a supportive and empowering environment. There are also two significant documents expected to be published in the lead time to the conference.
The government is expected to publish its guidance for schools regarding gender-querying children before or after Christmas 2023. It is said to take “a presumption against” children transitioning to a different gender at school but is likely to allow them to change their preferred names, pronouns or uniforms. It marks a climbdown from reports that some ministers were seeking to ban social transitioning within schools entirely. Ministers ruled out a ban on social transitioning after concluding it would require primary legislation to avoid conflicts with existing equality and discrimination law, and could prove to be unworkable.
Likewise, the publication of the final report on the evaluation of the London-based Gender Identity Development Service (GIDS) clinic, known as the Cass Review, is anticipated to occur by Spring 2024. The government eagerly awaits the conclusions of this review to gain insights into the treatment of children within the National Health Service (NHS) and to establish a consistent, evidence-based approach to policy development and implementation in relation to the Equality Act. It is crucial that any future legislative proposals adequately consider the intricacies of the matter, and Dr. Hilary Cass’s review will play a pivotal role in providing the necessary clarification.
Both these publications will likely inform our speakers and topics at the conference. We hope to secure the new Chief Inspector of Ofsted in post from January as a keynote speaker and we will be inviting the Education Secretary too. The conference will be a key milestone in our ongoing efforts to ensure that our children receive the best possible education, free from any harmful influences or misinformation. So mark your calendars and save the date for this momentous event that promises to be a catalyst for change and progress in the field of PSHE and RSE education in Brighton & Hove schools.
SACRE
On Wednesday, I had the opportunity to attend the Standing Advisory Committee on Religious Education (SACRE) for Brighton & Hove’s Local Education Authority, a role I have proudly held for the past five years. It is worth noting that despite being a required subject, religious studies in the United Kingdom do not have a national curriculum set by the Department for Education (DfE). Instead, each Local Authority, including Brighton & Hove, has its own SACRE that takes charge of creating a curriculum tailored to the needs and values of the local community.
Traditionally, this recommended curriculum is reviewed every five years to ensure its relevance and effectiveness. However, due to the unprecedented challenges posed by the ongoing pandemic and other pressing issues, our local religious studies curriculum is long overdue for an overhaul. Recognizing the urgency of the situation, myself and other dedicated members of SACRE have taken it upon ourselves to form a taskforce that will be responsible for reviewing and revamping the curriculum for Brighton & Hove.
Drawing upon my extensive knowledge and experience in the religious landscape of the city, I am particularly excited to contribute to this important endeavor. As a former Chair of the city’s Faith Council and the multi-faith charity, Brighton & Hove Faith in Action, I have had the privilege of gaining a deep understanding of the diverse faiths and cultures that coexist within our vibrant community. It is my firm belief that our curriculum should reflect this rich tapestry of beliefs, ensuring that school children are not only aware of the faiths and cultures around them but also have the opportunity to engage with and appreciate them.
During my tenure as Chair of BHFA, we developed a valuable resource specifically designed to promote religious and cultural understanding among young learners. This resource, which includes a thoughtfully crafted video and comprehensive teaching plans, has proven to be highly effective in fostering tolerance, empathy, and respect. I am hopeful that I will be able to recommend this resource to our schools as an invaluable tool for enhancing the religious studies curriculum.
The taskforce’s mission to review and update the religious studies curriculum for Brighton & Hove is of utmost importance. By ensuring that our curriculum accurately represents the diversity of faiths in our city, we are taking a significant step towards nurturing a generation of open-minded and culturally aware individuals. I am honored to be part of this transformative process and look forward to the positive impact it will have on the education and development of our young learners.
Faith in Action: Cavite
I was absolutely thrilled when I received the news from Bishop Jaime, the episcopal administrator of the Old Roman apostolate in the Philippines, about the sponsored distribution of food from our chapel located in Bacoor, Cavite. It was truly heartwarming to learn that the sponsor behind this noble initiative was none other than “Macrologic,” an esteemed IT company that specializes in providing top-notch IT solutions for a diverse range of clients and service industries.
This collaboration with local businesses to distribute charity around our chapels is truly one of the distinctive aspects of our apostolate. It perfectly aligns with our Fidem Servare vision, which is beautifully described in the comprehensive document “The Old Roman Apostolate: Social Action in Praxis.” This vision encompasses our unwavering commitment to serving the community and making a positive impact in the lives of those in need.
By partnering with corporate sponsors like Macrologic, not only do we ensure the successful distribution of essential food items, but we also provide these sponsors with an opportunity to receive positive PR and appreciation from the local community. It is truly a win-win situation, as the sponsors get to showcase their commitment to social responsibility, while our chapel receives the much-needed support to continue its charitable endeavors.
This sponsored distribution of food is a testament to the power of collaboration and the impact that can be made when businesses and communities come together for a common cause. It is heartening to see how our apostolate is able to forge meaningful partnerships that benefit both the sponsors and the local community. We are immensely grateful to Macrologic for their generosity and support in making a difference in the lives of those who are less fortunate.
In conclusion, the sponsored distribution of food from our chapel in Bacoor, Cavite, made possible by the kind support of Macrologic, exemplifies the core values and mission of our apostolate. It is through initiatives like these that we are able to bring hope, nourishment, and a sense of community to those who need it the most. We remain committed to our Fidem Servare vision and will continue to seek out opportunities to collaborate with businesses and individuals who share our passion for making a positive impact in the world.
An office
As someone who is familiar with me on a personal level will be aware, I have the privilege of “working from home.” This arrangement has numerous advantages that I have come to appreciate. I have the flexibility to set my own schedule, avoid the daily commute, and create a comfortable work environment tailored to my preferences. However, it is important to acknowledge that there are also some drawbacks associated with working from home.
One of the main drawbacks for me is the sedentary nature of this arrangement. When working from home, I often find myself sitting for long periods of time, which can have negative effects on my health. Additionally, the nature of remote work can make it difficult to establish boundaries between work and personal life. Unlike a traditional office setting, where there is a clear separation between work and home, working from home blurs these lines. As a result, I often find myself working longer hours and struggling to disconnect from work.
Recently, I had a wake-up call regarding the impact of my sedentary work-from-home lifestyle on my health. A visit to Gammarelli in Rome necessitated a commission for a brand new episcopal choir cassock, and a routine eye test revealed that my eyesight has deteriorated over the past five years. This served as a reminder that my health should be a priority, and that I need to take proactive steps to address the negative effects of my work-from-home setup.
In light of this realization, I have been considering alternative options to improve my work-life balance and overall well-being. One idea that has caught my attention is renting an office space not far from my home. This office would be within a ten-minute walk, allowing me to incorporate physical activity into my daily routine. By having a separate workspace outside of my home, I believe it would help create a clear distinction between work and personal life. This physical separation would encourage me to take breaks, rest, and recharge, ultimately improving my productivity and overall health.
While the prevailing trend post-pandemic seems to lean towards remote work, I have come to the conclusion that a hybrid approach may be more suitable for me. Renting an office space would provide the best of both worlds – the flexibility and convenience of working from home, combined with the structure and boundaries of a traditional office environment. It would allow me to maintain the benefits of remote work while addressing the drawbacks that come with it. It would also allow me to broadcast Mass and other programmes with a more reliable broadband.
Though working from home has its advantages, it is crucial to recognize and address the potential drawbacks. My personal experience has highlighted the sedentary nature of remote work and its impact on my health. By considering alternative options, such as renting an office space, I hope to strike a balance between the flexibility of remote work and the structure of a traditional office environment. This decision would not only benefit my physical well-being but also contribute to a healthier work-life balance.
Panto Rehearsals
As many of you may be aware, I have the privilege of overseeing the musical direction for our local pantomime each year. The esteemed Rottingdean Village Hall becomes the hub of musical enchantment every Friday night, and this year’s pantomime is steadily taking shape. The unwavering commitment of our dedicated cast and crew has been instrumental in bringing this production to fruition. The music rehearsal process has progressed swiftly, with the focus now shifting from vocal rehearsals to choreography.
The songs featured in the pantomime not only possess melodious qualities but are also brief, facilitating the performers in mastering the lyrics—an essential aspect for successfully executing the choreography. Each rehearsal commences with a comprehensive warm-up, encompassing physical and vocal exercises, allowing the actors to seamlessly transition from their day-to-day commitments to the extraordinary realm of pantomime. Following this, the choreographer utilizes their exceptional talent to transform the movements into a harmonized and captivating dance routine.
As the weeks pass by, the excitement of Christmas draws nearer, but the actors have been diligently putting in the effort for the past eight weeks. They have been tirelessly memorizing their lines and blocking, rehearsing three nights a week. It’s only natural that their enthusiasm may start to wane slightly at this point. However, the introduction of music and dance seems to reignite their passion and energy. The initial choreography sessions are always a sight to behold, filled with laughter and entertainment.
It’s important to remember that the actors in this production are talented amateurs, volunteers, each with their own unique skill set and level of experience in the world of performance art. For some, coordinating their legs and arms while remembering left from right can prove to be initially challenging. Add to that the need to remember song lyrics and melodies, and the results can be quite amusing and entertaining for everyone involved.
Despite any initial challenges, the cast and crew are determined to deliver a memorable pantomime experience for the audience. They continue to push themselves, striving for perfection in every aspect of the production. The hard work and dedication of these individuals are truly commendable, as they bring their talents together to create a magical and enchanting performance. The countdown to opening night is on, and the anticipation is palpable. The community of Rottingdean eagerly awaits the unveiling of this year’s pantomime, knowing that it will be a night filled with laughter, joy, and unforgettable moments.
Recommended Viewing
Lumen Gentium: Advent series
The second in the series of my reflections on the Sunday liturgies of Advent. Each week I offer thoughts and explanations on the theme, prayers and readings of the traditional Mass for each Sunday of Advent and the Christmas season concluding with Candlemas.
Old Romans Unscripted: Advent II
Catholic Commentary
In the News
Secular Commentary
Reflections
Alea iacta est
“The die has been cast,” a phrase credited to Julius Caesar on January 10, 49 BC, as he boldly crossed the Rubicon river in Northern Italy with his army, has become a powerful symbol of irreversible actions that have surpassed a critical threshold. This historical event marked the beginning of a prolonged civil war against Pompey and the Optimates, as Caesar entered Italy in direct opposition to the Senate. Whether spoken in Latin or translated into various languages, this expression signifies the point of no return, where events have taken a decisive turn.
Regrettably, a similar sentiment can be applied to the remainder of the current Pontificate under Pope Francis. His motu proprio “Traditiones Custodes” and the subsequent closures of the Latin Mass by dioceses worldwide, along with the Latin Mass Society no longer publishing Mass locations due to fear of reprisals, indicate a clear intention to suppress the traditional expression of the Latin Rite, namely the traditional Latin Mass. Furthermore, the persecution faced by proponents of this rite, including figures like Cardinal Burke, seems to confirm the Pope’s unfavorable stance not only towards the liturgy but also towards traditional Catholic teaching, for that is all they have done to earn his disfavour.
However, amidst these challenging circumstances, one must question whether the die is truly cast. As the apostles remind us, there is always “hope.” Despite the progressive ascendency of the present moment, as referenced in last week’s newsletter there is a noticeable shift among the younger clergy towards a more traditional and not just conservative appreciation of the faith. This emerging trend suggests that the tide may be turning, offering a glimmer of hope for those who hold steadfast to the timeless traditions of the Catholic Church.
Just as the prophetic voice of St John the Baptist heralding the Messiah in Christ’s day resonated with power and significance, we too can find the courage to speak up and share our beliefs, values, and visions for a better future for the Church grounded in Tradition. Our voices have the potential to ignite hope, challenge the status quo, and restore the Church. Just as St John the Baptist’s voice echoed through the wilderness, in a world that is increasingly interconnected, our words have the power to bridge divides and foster understanding.
However, it is important to recognize that the power of our voices extends beyond mere words. Just as St John the Baptist’s actions spoke louder than his words, our own actions must align with the messages we convey. It is not enough to simply speak about restoration; we must actively work towards it. By living out our Catholic values, customs and traditions and leading by example, we can inspire others to follow suit and create a ripple effect of positive change within the Church and beyond. Our very existence as Old Romans, I am convinced, was for this moment. Remember that the Church itself was begun by only twelve apostles and a hundred and twenty disciples on the day of Pentecost (Acts 1:15)! “All things are possible with God!” (Matthew 19:26; Luke 1:37)
This should be the intention of our Advent observance, that our prayers, fasting and penances be catalysts for both personal transformation in holiness, and through us the reconversion of the Church around us. As Old Romans, holding fast to and living the perennial traditions of our faith, we should bear witness to the Truth to others.
Fasting
In the time of Christ’s Incarnation, practitioners of the Old Testament religion had a specific practice of fasting or abstaining on Mondays and Thursdays. However, when Christianity emerged, believers chose to observe different penitential days, namely Wednesdays (the day Our Lord was betrayed) and Fridays (the day Our Lord was crucified). This shift in penitential days reflected the significance of these specific events in the life of Jesus.
Fasting, as practiced by Catholics, involves consuming only one full meal, which may include meat, and two smaller meals that do not equal the size of the main meal. It is important to note that no eating between meals is allowed during the fasting period. However, certain beverages such as water, milk, tea, coffee, and juices are permitted. The allowance of meat at one meal depends on whether abstinence is also expected on a given day. These guidelines have evolved over time, and while traditionally everyone over the age of 21 and under the age of 59 was bound to observe the law of fast, the present Code of Canon Law has revised the age limits to 18 and 59.
In the Latin Church, abstinence refers to refraining from consuming meat from mammals or fowl, as well as any soup or gravy made from them. However, fish is allowed, which is why Fridays are often referred to as “Fish Fridays.” This practice of abstinence has traditionally applied to individuals aged 7 and older. However, the new Code of Canon Law has extended the requirement to all individuals who have completed their 14th year.
Additionally, there is the discipline known as partial abstinence, which allows for the consumption of meat and soup or gravy made from meat once a day, specifically during the principal meal. This partial abstinence provides some flexibility while still adhering to the overall practice of abstaining from meat.
Overall, the practices of fasting and abstinence have evolved over time within the Christian faith, reflecting the significance of specific days and events in the life of Jesus. These practices serve as a means of penance and spiritual discipline, reminding believers of the sacrifices made by Christ and encouraging a deeper connection with their faith.
The Proper attitude when fasting
St. John Chrysostom, in this excerpt from Homily III of his “Homilies on the Statues,” summed it up well:
- …We have this fast too as an ally, and as an assistant in this good intercession. Therefore, as when the winter is over and the summer is appearing, the sailor draws his vessel to the deep; and the soldier burnishes his arms, and makes ready his steed for the battle; and the husbandman sharpens his sickle; and the traveller boldly undertakes a long journey, and the wrestler strips and bares himself for the contest. So too, when the fast makes its appearance, like a kind of spiritual summer, let us as soldiers burnish our weapons; and as husbandmen let us sharpen our sickle; and as sailors let us order our thoughts against the waves of extravagant desires; and as travellers let us set out on the journey towards heaven; and as wrestlers let us strip for the contest. For the believer is at once a husbandman, and a sailor, and a soldier, a wrestler, and a traveller. Hence St. Paul saith, “We wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers. Put on therefore the whole armour of God.” Hast thou observed the wrestler? Hast thou observed the soldier? If thou art a wrestler, it is necessary for thee to engage in the conflict naked. If a soldier, it behoves thee to stand in the battle line armed at all points. How then are both these things possible, to be naked, and yet not naked; to be clothed, and yet not clothed! How? I will tell thee. Divest thyself of worldly business, and thou hast become a wrestler. Put on the spiritual armour, and thou hast become a soldier. Strip thyself of worldly cares, for the season is one of wrestling. Clothe thyself with the spiritual armour, for we have a heavy warfare to wage with demons. Therefore also it is needful we should be naked, so as to offer nothing that the devil may take hold of, while he is wrestling with us; and to be fully armed at all points, so as on no side to receive a deadly blow. Cultivate thy soul. Cut away the thorns. Sow the word of godliness. Propagate and nurse with much care the fair plants of divine wisdom, and thou hast become a husbandman. And Paul will say to thee, “The husbandman that laboureth must be first partaker of the fruits. He too himself practised this art. Therefore writing to the Corinthians, he said, “I have planted, Apollos watered, but God gave the increase.” Sharpen thy sickle, which thou hast blunted through gluttony–sharpen it by fasting. Lay hold of the pathway which leads towards heaven; rugged and narrow as it is, lay hold of it, and journey on. And how mayest thou be able to do these things? By subduing thy body, and bringing it into subjection. For when the way grows narrow, the corpulence that comes of gluttony is a great hindrance. Keep down the waves of inordinate desires. Repel the tempest of evil thoughts. Preserve the bark; display much skill, and thou hast become a pilot. But we shall have the fast for a groundwork and instructor in all these things.
- I speak not, indeed, of such a fast as most persons keep, but of real fasting; not merely an abstinence from meats; but from sins too. For the nature of a fast is such, that it does not suffice to deliver those who practice it, unless it be done according to a suitable law. “For the wrestler,” it is said, “is not crowned unless he strive lawfully.” To the end then, that when we have gone through the labour of fasting, we forfeit not the crown of fasting, we should understand how, and after what manner, it is necessary to conduct this business; since that Pharisee also fasted, but afterwards when down empty, and destitute of the fruit of fasting. The Publican fasted not; and yet he was accepted in preference to him who had fasted; in order that thou mayest learn that fasting is unprofitable, except all other duties follow with it. The Ninevites fasted, and won the favour of God. The Jews fasted too, and profited nothing, nay they departed with blame. Since then the danger in fasting is so great to those who do not know how they ought to fast, we should learn the laws of this exercise, in order that we may not “run uncertainly,” nor “beat the air,” nor while we are fighting contend with a shadow. Fasting is a medicine; but a medicine, though it be never so profitable, becomes frequently useless owing to the unskillfulness of him who employs it. For it is necessary to know, moreover, the time when it should be applied, and the requisite quantity of it; and the temperament of body that admits it; and the nature of the country, and the season of the year; and the corresponding diet; as well as varous other particulars; any of which, if one overlooks, he will mar all the rest that have been named. Now if, when the body needs healing, such exactness is required on our part, much more ought we, when our care is about the soul, and we seek to heal the distempers of the mind, to look, and to search into every particular with the utmost accuracy.
- I have said these things, not that we may disparage fasting, but that we may honour fasting; for the honour of fasting consists not in abstinence from food, but in withdrawing from sinful practices; since he who limits his fasting only to an abstinence from meats, is one who especially disparages it. Dost thou fast? Give me proof of it by thy works! Is it said by what kind of works? If thou seest a poor man, take pity on him! If thou seest an enemy, be reconciled to him! If thou seest a friend gaining honour, envy him not! If thou seest a handsome woman, pass her by! For let not the mouth only fast, but also the eye, and ear, and the feet, and the hands, and all the members of our bodies. Let the hands fast, by being pure from rapine and avarice. Let the feet fast, but ceasing from running to the unlawful spectacles. Let the eyes fast, being taught never to fix themselves rudely upon handsome countenances, or to busy themselves with strange beauties. For looking is the food of the eyes, but if this be such as is unlawful or forbidden, it mars the fast; and upsets the whole safety of the soul; but if it be lawful and safe, it adorns fasting. For it would be among things the most absurd to abstain from lawful food because of the fast, but with the eyes to touch even what is forbidden. Dost thou not eat flesh? Feed not upon lasciviousness by means of the eyes. Let the ear fast also. The fasting of the ear consists in refusing to receive evil speakings and calumnies. “Thou shalt not receive a false report,” it says.
Practicum
The following are ways in which you may practically support the work of others for the betterment of our society and the plight of sufferers, the impoverished and defenceless.
Campaigns
Justice for Baby Lily
Last week, two dangerous amendments to the Government’s Criminal Justice Bill were tabled by pro-abortion Labour MPs Dame Diana Johnson and Stella Creasy. If passed, the amendments would remove abortion from the criminal law relating to the Offences Against the Person Act 1861 and the Infant Life (Preservation) Act 1929.
The “Johnson Amendment” would mean a woman could carry out her own abortion at ANY time, for ANY reason.
The “Creasy Amendment” would decriminalise concealing the body of a dead baby who dies before, during or after birth
Baby Lily was the unborn daughter of the woman convicted and imprisoned this summer under the Offences Against the Persons Act (OAPA) for illegally procuring an abortion. Tragically, Lily didn’t survive the abortion.
Lily’s mum was sent a BPAS DIY abortion kit when 32-34 weeks (around 8 months) pregnant — despite the legal limit being 10 weeks. Within minutes of the sentence being handed down at Stoke crown court, BPAS had launched a campaign to repeal the OAPA in a bid to make the Abortion Act redundant. If the law changes, abortion in the UK would effectively be “de-criminalised” and a woman could demand an abortion right up to BIRTH for any REASON in any PLACE.
Will you help bring the deadly abortion Pills-by-Post Scheme to an end by helping us WARN women of the deadly impact that it is having?
When the Society was formed 57 years ago, SPUC was massively outspent by a far wealthier pro-abortion lobby. That’s still the case today. And that’s why they are always extremely thankful and hugely humbled when SPUC receives larger donations.
Right To Life
There have been huge advances in medical science in the 33 years since 1990 when the abortion time limit was lowered from 28 weeks to 24 weeks. The survival rate for extremely premature babies has doubled over the last decade alone, prompting new guidance from the British Association of Perinatal Medicine that enables doctors to intervene to save premature babies from 22 weeks gestation.
This leaves a real contradiction in British law: in one room of a hospital, doctors could be working to save a baby born alive at 23 weeks, whilst, in another room of that same hospital, a doctor could perform an abortion that would end the life of a baby at the same age. Our abortion time limit of 24 weeks is also unusually high compared to the majority of European Union countries. In fact, it is double that of the most common time limit for abortion on demand or social grounds among European Union countries, which is 12 weeks gestation.
A number of MPs and Peers we have spoken to have been amazed to hear how extreme our time limit is compared to many European Union countries. While it is rare for Lords Private Members’ Bills to become law, at a minimum, Baroness O’Loan’s Bill will ensure that the humanity of the unborn child is put firmly on the radar and debated extensively in Parliament, the media and wider society. This will help raise the profile on this issue and build further momentum for changes to our abortion legislation that will save the lives of unborn children.
We have just published a magazine-style explainer article on our website that has much more detail on Baroness O’Loan’s Bill and why it is time to reduce the abortion time limit.
I highly recommend having a look at this explainer article – so you are up to speed on the issue and the overwhelmingly strong case for lowering our time limit.
Petitions
Appoint a Minister for Men and Boys
Appointing a Minister for Men and Boys would be a crucial step in addressing the various problems that exclusively or disproportionately affect men. By having a dedicated minister, we can ensure that issues such as male health, suicide rates, educational outcomes, rough sleeping, involvement with the criminal justice system, and victims of violent crime are given the specific attention they require. These problems not only have a significant impact on the individuals involved but also on wider society as a whole.
One of the key areas that would benefit from targeted help and intervention is male health. Men face unique health challenges that need to be addressed, and having a Minister for Men and Boys would allow for a focused approach in tackling these issues. Additionally, suicide rates among men are alarmingly high, with men accounting for 74% of all suicides. This is a deeply concerning statistic that demands immediate attention and action.
Another area where targeted support is needed is in addressing rough sleeping. It is disheartening to note that 85% of rough sleepers are men. This highlights the urgent need for effective strategies to provide shelter and support for these vulnerable individuals. By appointing a Minister for Men and Boys, we can ensure that the specific needs of male rough sleepers are addressed and that appropriate measures are put in place to help them regain stability in their lives.
Furthermore, the involvement of men with the criminal justice system is a pressing issue that requires focused attention. With men making up 96% of the prison population, it is evident that there is a need for targeted interventions to address the underlying factors contributing to this disproportionate representation. By appointing a Minister for Men and Boys, we can work towards implementing effective strategies to reduce the number of men involved in the criminal justice system and provide them with the necessary support for rehabilitation and reintegration into society.
Lastly, it is crucial to acknowledge the high percentage of men who are victims of violent crime. With men accounting for 72% of murder victims, it is clear that there is a need for specific measures to address this issue. By appointing a Minister for Men and Boys, we can ensure that the necessary support systems are in place to assist male victims of violent crime and work towards preventing such incidents from occurring in the first place.
In conclusion, the appointment of a Minister for Men and Boys would be instrumental in addressing the various challenges that exclusively or disproportionately affect men. By providing targeted help and intervention, we can work towards improving male health outcomes, reducing suicide rates, addressing rough sleeping, tackling involvement with the criminal justice system, and supporting male victims of violent crime. These issues have a significant impact on wider society, and it is imperative that they receive the specific attention they deserve.
Demand the withdrawal of sexually explicit RSHE programs promoting radical gender ideology from primary schools.
ParentPower supports Norfolk parents whose complaints about an age-inappropriate Relationships, Sex and Health Education resource promoting transgender ideology have been ignored. The resource, called ‘RSE Solution’, is provided by Educator Solutions, a trading arm of Norfolk County Council, and is used in many schools, including faith schools. Parents were shocked to learn what their children would be taught.
The RSE program teaches 7-year-olds that they are born “like a boy” or “like a girl” and must choose their gender from options like “boy, girl, and not sure”. 8-year-olds are taught about a “heteronormative” world and various gender identities. The resource also uses inappropriate images for young children.
The Church of England primary school did not consult parents properly or make it easy for them to view the material. When parents asked about critical race theory and gender ideology, the RSHE teacher accused them of bigotry. The parents sent a letter to the Headteacher questioning the need to teach radical gender ideology to young children, especially since the Department for Education (DfE) does not require it in primary schools.
The response from the school was dismissive, and the request for an independent evaluation of the resource was rejected. The parents filed a formal complaint with the DfE, but no investigation has been initiated yet. Ofsted claimed they couldn’t act and referred the complaint back to Norfolk County Council. Despite media coverage, the school’s leadership refused to collaborate or compromise. This case highlights the challenges parents face in protecting their children and the lack of accountability within the education system.
The local authority, DfE, Church of England, OFSTED, and the local MP have all failed to address the parents’ concerns. Similar RSHE materials are used in schools across the UK. While this petition focuses on Norfolk, it is relevant to schools nationwide. Support the petition to demand the withdrawal of sexually explicit RSHE programs promoting radical gender ideology from primary schools.
Educate not indoctrinate
Don’t Divide Us is Britain’s common-sense voice on race. We believe that all people should be treated equally irrespective of skin colour or ethnicity and that Britain has made good progress towards achieving this. We are concerned that this progress is being undermined in schools by teaching that creates divisions. We are leading a coalition of like-minded groups who see similar moves in schools from groups promoting highly contested ideas about sex and gender.
Unproven assertions about race, gender and sex are being introduced into schools by activist influenced groups who are more concerned with promoting political interests than in educating the next generation.
Schools have a duty under the 1996 Education Act to teach impartially and in ways that are compatible with the values of parents. This has wide support: 69% of parents polled for our report agreed that schools should teach in an impartial way. Critical Social Justice (CSJ) – whether the focus is race, sex or gender – is a politically partisan ideology that goes against majority norms and beliefs on these issues and condemns alternative views as being ‘part of the problem’. CSJ dismisses impartiality and objectivity as a political ruse rather than something essential for education.
As an ideological creed CSJ is not suited to promoting positive child development. Introducing radical ideas about race, sex and gender within schools can cause confusion and anxiety. These radical claims disrupt children’s psychological and emotional world in order to normalise a one-sided, pessimistic and anxiety-inducing world-view where there is nothing but oppressive relations of power.
The government’s Impartiality Guidance, while welcome, is insufficient.
Please sign our petition if you agree with us that:
schools should not teach children that they either have ‘white privilege’ or ‘black oppression’
schools should not teach children that there are many genders
schools should teach traditional subjects without seeking to influence children politically
Miserere nobis
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