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From the Diary

In the time elapsed since the previous publication of this newsletter (Dec 17 2023), ✠Jerome has embarked upon journeys that have taken him across two continents, namely Europe and Asia. Covering an impressive distance of approximately 31,600 kilometers, his travels have allowed him to immerse himself in diverse cultures, witness breathtaking landscapes, and forge meaningful connections with people from different walks of life.

✠Jerome has solemnly conducted fourteen major ordinations, affirming the sacramental ministration of the faithful with God’s assurance of grace. These sacred ceremonies, which were held with great reverence and solemnity, brought about moments of palpable joy and deep spiritual fulfillment for the young men and the faithful whom they serve. His Grace also met with civil officials, mayors and political leaders of their communities building trust and dialogue to aid the mission of the apostolates.

In addition to ordinations, ✠Jerome has also engaged in fruitful dialogue with bishops across North and South America and Asia. These discussions have centered around various important topics, such as the construction of new chapels, the establishment of fresh missionary endeavors, and the cultivation of partnerships in the education of future clerics. Through these conversations, ✠Jerome has sought to foster collaboration and unity among traditional Catholic apostolates, recognizing the importance of working together towards shared goals and aspirations.

✠Jerome has actively participated in meetings and conferences focused on countering the Trans culture in schools and institutions. Recognizing the significance of education in shaping the minds and values of future generations, ✠Jerome has dedicated his time and efforts to addressing this pressing issue, particularly to address the safeguarding issues involved and the rights of families.

On the feast of Pope St Pius V this month (May 5th 2024) ✠Jerome celebrated his twelfth anniversary of episcopal consecration. He begs your prayers.

“Consentire Videtur: a pastoral epistle for Pentecost 2024”

In his pastoral epistle for Pentecost 2024, ✠Jerome emphasizes the importance of vocalizing and living out the Gospel truths. He warns against the dangers of silence in the face of modern societal and moral challenges, asserting that such silence can be perceived as consent. Highlighting the role of the Holy Spirit in empowering believers to speak the truth, he calls for active engagement and witness to uphold traditional Christian values and teachings, especially in an era of increasing secularism and moral relativism.

For more details, read the full epistle here.

Current Affairs

Failing Ecumenism?

“Fiducia Supplicans,” a document issued by the Vatican’s Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith (DDF) and signed by Cardinal Víctor Manuel Fernández, addresses the pastoral practice of blessing same-sex couples outside of a liturgical framework. This declaration was intended to offer a nuanced approach, allowing priests to impart blessings to individuals in same-sex relationships without officially recognizing their union or altering the Church’s teachings on marriage. The document emphasizes that these blessings are meant to convey God’s love and the Church’s support without condoning relationships that contradict traditional Catholic doctrine​​​​. [America][The Pilot]

The content of “Fiducia Supplicans” has sparked significant controversy and a wide range of reactions from Catholic bishops globally. Some bishops view the document as a progressive step towards pastoral care and inclusivity, emphasizing the importance of compassion and support for all individuals. However, others see it as a departure from orthodox teachings, arguing that it implicitly legitimizes same-sex unions and undermines the Church’s doctrinal integrity. This divergence in reception has led to heated debates within the Catholic community, with some episcopal conferences outright rejecting the document and calling for its retraction, while others attempt to navigate its implications within their pastoral practices​​​​​​. [The Pillar][CNA][Aleteia]

We know that they lie to us. They know that they lie to us. They know that we know that they lie to us. We know that they know that we know that they lie to us. And yet they continue to lie.

Aleksandr Isayevich Solzhenitsyn

The recent meeting between Cardinal Tucho Fernández and Pope Tawadros II to discuss “Fiducia Supplicans” appears to be a diplomatic exercise aimed at maintaining an image of interfaith dialogue amidst significant underlying tensions. Official statements from both the Vatican and the Coptic Orthodox Church emphasize mutual respect and the importance of ecumenical cooperation, but the background reveals deeper conflicts. [The Pillar][CNA]

The Coptic Holy Synod’s denunciation of “Fiducia Supplicans” in March 2024 significantly shaped the context of this meeting. The Synod’s decision to suspend theological dialogue with the Catholic Church was a direct response to the Vatican’s December 2023 declaration, which permitted non-liturgical blessings for same-sex couples. This move was seen by the Coptic Orthodox leaders as a profound deviation from traditional Christian teachings on marriage and sexuality​​​​. [Catholic Arena]

Cardinal Fernández, in his role as the Vatican’s representative, likely approached the meeting with a strategic aim to mitigate the fallout and reassert the Vatican’s position. His statements and press releases following the controversy suggest a concerted effort to frame the discussion in terms of pastoral care and inclusivity, despite significant pushback from various Christian communities worldwide, including the Coptic Orthodox Church​​​​. [CNA]

Pope Tawadros II, representing the Coptic Orthodox Church, navigated this encounter with cautious diplomacy. The Synod’s firm stance against same-sex blessings and its decision to halt dialogue were clear indicators of the Church’s commitment to its doctrinal positions. The meeting with Cardinal Fernández, therefore, was less about finding common theological ground and more about managing the diplomatic optics of an increasingly strained relationship​​​​. [Aleteia]

In essence, the meeting served as a highly choreographed display of interfaith engagement. Both leaders were likely aware that the substantial theological and ethical divides, highlighted by the Coptic Holy Synod’s recent actions, remain significant obstacles to true consensus. This context underscores the complexities and challenges inherent in ecumenical dialogues, especially when foundational doctrinal beliefs are at odds​​. [The Pilot]

Criticism from Traditional Catholic Media on Pope Francis’s 60 Minutes Interview

Pope Francis’s recent interview on CBS’s “60 Minutes” has drawn significant criticism from traditional Catholic media. Key points of contention include his remarks about conservative factions within the Church and his views on social issues.

Conservative Critics:
Traditional Catholic commentators were particularly critical of Pope Francis’s description of conservatives as having a “suicidal attitude” for clinging to past traditions without being open to new perspectives. This comment was seen as dismissive and antagonistic towards those who uphold traditional Catholic doctrines. Critics argue that such statements undermine the unity of the Church and alienate a substantial segment of the Catholic faithful who are committed to maintaining doctrinal orthodoxy​​​​. [CNA][uCatholic][LifeSite]

Same-Sex Blessings and Ideological Stance:
Pope Francis’s clarification that the Vatican’s stance on same-sex blessings does not equate to endorsing same-sex unions was also contentious. Traditionalists view his nuanced approach as potentially confusing and a step towards diluting the Church’s teachings on marriage and sexuality. The pope’s broader comments against ideological stances, including antisemitism and anti-Palestinian sentiments, were generally supported but seen as insufficient to address the complex moral and ethical debates within the Church​​​​. [America][CNA]

Lack of Addressing Key Issues:
Some traditional Catholic outlets criticized the interview for not addressing crucial issues like the role of women in the clergy, which remains a divisive topic. They argue that the interview missed an opportunity to clarify the Church’s stance on various theological and moral issues, leaving room for continued debate and division among the faithful​​. [CWR]

Overall, traditional Catholic media expressed concern that the interview highlighted a growing rift within the Church, emphasizing a need for greater clarity and adherence to traditional teachings to maintain ecclesiastical unity and integrity.

Harrison Butker’s Commencement Speech at Benedictine College

In May 2024, Kansas City Chiefs kicker Harrison Butker delivered a controversial commencement speech at Benedictine College, a Catholic liberal arts institution in Kansas. Butker’s address included pointed criticisms of Catholic leaders and cultural issues, which elicited a range of responses from both traditional Catholic media and other commentators.

Context and Content of the Speech: Butker’s speech focused on the importance of embracing traditional Catholic values and vocations, particularly marriage and family life. He criticized Catholic bishops for their perceived failure to lead effectively during the COVID-19 pandemic, accusing them of being more concerned with administrative survival than with providing spiritual guidance. Butker emphasized the need for bishops to vocalize Church teachings boldly, rather than succumbing to societal pressures. He also touched on broader cultural issues, decrying the support for abortion and what he termed “degenerate cultural values” promoted by some political leaders, including President Joe Biden​​​​​​. [OutKick][NCRegister][CNA]

Reception from Traditional Catholic Media: Traditional Catholic outlets generally appreciated Butker’s forthrightness and adherence to conservative Catholic principles. The National Catholic Register and Catholic News Agency highlighted his call for stronger ecclesiastical leadership and his praise for Benedictine College’s commitment to traditional values. These sources framed Butker’s speech as a necessary critique of current Church leadership and a reminder of the importance of upholding orthodox teachings and moral clarity in public life​​​​. [CNA][LifeSite]

Other Catholic Commentators’ Views: However, not all responses were positive. Some commentators criticized the speech for its tone and content, arguing that it lacked the motivational and inclusive spirit typically expected in commencement addresses. Critics within the Catholic community viewed Butker’s remarks as overly harsh and divisive, potentially alienating members of the Church who are striving to balance tradition with contemporary challenges. They contended that such public criticism of Church leaders could further deepen divisions within the Catholic community​​​​. [LifeSite]

Mike Kuckleman’s Position: Benedictine College Chairman Mike Kuckleman expressed a measured view on the controversy, acknowledging the diverse reactions to Butker’s speech. Kuckleman emphasized the college’s commitment to fostering open dialogue and critical thinking among its students, while also reaffirming the institution’s dedication to traditional Catholic values. He recognized the importance of addressing controversial topics but underscored the need for charity and respect in such discussions​​.

“Our entire country is talking about faith and religion as a result of this speech Harrison Butker gave at Benedictine College. I’m excited to see the world now engaging and talking about faith and religion. I think it’s a great thing we are doing that. I’m very proud of the college. This has put Atchison, Kansas and Benedictine College on the map in this way where they have the world talking about religion. We needed it. I just can’t get my head around people saying he can’t share these thoughts because they disagree with him and therefore he has to be silent. You don’t have to agree with him. He’s entitled to share them and work on bringing the rest of us to his belief system. There should be nothing wrong with that.”

Benedictine College Chairman Mike Kuckleman On Harrison Butker’s Commencement Speech

Overall, Butker’s commencement address at Benedictine College has sparked significant debate, reflecting broader tensions within the Catholic Church over leadership, tradition, and engagement with modern societal issues. [Our Sunday Visitor]

Wins against Trans ideology

Recent developments concerning the WPATH Files expose, the Cass Review, the draft RSE Guidance issued by the Department for Education (DfE), and the Monaghan Report on the Brighton & Hove Trans Toolkit highlight significant controversies and debates surrounding transgender healthcare and education policies.

The WPATH Files Expose

The WPATH Files, released by investigative journalist Michael Shellenberger, have revealed internal discussions within the World Professional Association for Transgender Health (WPATH) that suggest a lack of proper informed consent and ethical issues in transgender medical treatments. These leaked files, comprising over 240 pages of internal communications, show that WPATH members were aware of the severe side effects and lifelong consequences of gender-affirming treatments but continued to advocate for them. Critics argue that these revelations expose the experimental nature of transgender healthcare, particularly for minors and vulnerable adults, and have sparked calls for more stringent regulations and ethical standards in the field​​​​​​​​. [Transgender Map][Environmental Progress][Megan Kelly][Seleisi]

The Cass Review

The Cass Review, led by Dr. Hilary Cass in the UK, has provided a comprehensive examination of gender identity services for children and young people. The interim findings have raised concerns about the rapid increase in referrals and the quality of care provided by the NHS’s Tavistock Clinic. The review emphasizes the need for a holistic, evidence-based approach to gender dysphoria, highlighting gaps in research and the potential harms of early medical interventions. It calls for improved mental health support and a more cautious approach to prescribing puberty blockers and cross-sex hormones, aligning with some of the ethical concerns raised by the WPATH Files​​. [Cass Report][Environmental Progress]

Draft RSE Guidance by the DfE

The draft Relationships and Sex Education (RSE) Guidance issued by the UK’s Department for Education has also stirred debate. This guidance aims to provide clarity on teaching about gender and sexuality in schools. It emphasizes the importance of age-appropriate education and parental involvement, and seeks to balance the rights and needs of transgender students with those of their peers. The guidance has faced criticism from various groups, with some arguing that it doesn’t go far enough to protect LGBTQ+ students, while others believe it imposes too many restrictions on discussing gender identity issues in the classroom​​. [Gov.UK][Gov.UKdraft][Megan Kelly]

Recent Gender Critical Wins in Legal Cases

In recent months, there have been notable legal victories for individuals holding gender-critical beliefs, reinforcing the protection of such views under existing employment and discrimination laws.

1. Professor Jo Phoenix vs. The Open University: In January 2024, Professor Jo Phoenix won her case against The Open University (OU), where she faced discrimination, harassment, and constructive dismissal due to her gender-critical beliefs. Phoenix, a criminology professor, experienced significant backlash from colleagues after establishing the Gender Critical Research Network. The tribunal found that the university failed to protect her from harassment, which included an open letter signed by 368 colleagues calling for the network’s closure and equating her presence to that of a “racist uncle” at a family gathering. The tribunal ruled that her gender-critical views were protected as philosophical beliefs under the Equality Act 2010, and her treatment by the OU constituted unlawful harassment and discrimination​​​​. [Personnel Today][DWF]
2. Rachel Meade vs. Westminster City Council and Social Work England: Rachel Meade, a social worker, successfully argued that she was discriminated against and harassed by her employer, Westminster City Council, and the professional regulator, Social Work England. Meade had been sanctioned for posting gender-critical views on social media. The tribunal upheld her claims, recognizing that her beliefs were protected and that the actions taken against her amounted to unlawful harassment. This case highlighted the importance of protecting employees’ rights to express gender-critical views without fear of professional retribution​​. [BASW]

These cases underscore a growing recognition within the legal system that gender-critical beliefs deserve protection under the law. They also highlight the tension between advocating for gender-critical perspectives and the broader societal push for inclusivity and support for transgender individuals. These legal victories suggest a need for institutions to balance the protection of free speech and belief with their commitment to creating inclusive environments.

These developments collectively underscore the complex and often contentious nature of transgender healthcare and education policies. They highlight the ongoing need for evidence-based practices, ethical considerations, and balanced approaches to support all individuals involved.

PSHEbrighton

The Monaghan Report on the Brighton & Hove Trans Toolkit

The Monaghan Report, authored by leading human rights lawyer Karon Monaghan KC, scrutinizes the Brighton & Hove City Council’s Trans Inclusion Schools Toolkit. This report was commissioned following concerns raised by local parents about the toolkit’s implications and legality. The toolkit, initially designed to support trans and gender-questioning students, has come under fire for potentially breaching equality and human rights laws​​​​. [Text][Brighton & Hove News][GBN]

Monaghan’s 75-page legal opinion outlines several areas where the toolkit may be unlawful. The primary concerns include the fast-tracking of children from social transition to medical interventions without sufficient safeguarding measures or consideration of the associated risks. The toolkit’s guidance encourages schools to respect children’s requests to change their names and pronouns and to make other social transitions, such as changes in clothing, without adequately addressing the potential long-term impacts and without mandatory parental involvement​​​​​​. [B&HN][B&HN][GBN]

One notable case involved a local family whose child was socially transitioned in school without their knowledge. The parents argued that the toolkit facilitated an environment where significant decisions about their child’s identity were made without parental consent, which could lead to irreversible medical transitions. This family’s experience highlights the broader concerns about the lack of safeguarding and the potential psychological and physical harm to children​​​​. [B&HN]

The Monaghan Report’s findings have led to calls for the immediate review and revision of the toolkit. The report emphasizes the need for clear and lawful guidance that balances the rights and protections of all students, including those with gender-critical views and those identifying as transgender. As public consultations and potential legal challenges loom, the future of the toolkit remains uncertain, reflecting the ongoing debate over how best to support gender-questioning youth while ensuring their safety and well-being​​​​.

Archbishop signs demand for Public Inquiry into Trans indoctrination

On April 30, 2024, ✠Jerome signed a public letter addressed to UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, calling for a Public Inquiry into the infiltration of gender identity ideology in public policies and institutions. This initiative is supported by various politicians, medical experts, and academics. The letter emphasizes the need for comprehensive safeguarding and the development of best medical practices, citing concerns highlighted by the Cass Review regarding the treatment of young people with gender dysphoria. This move underscores a commitment to transparency and accountability in handling gender-related issues in public domains.

For more details, you can read the full article here.

Families and Allies

PSHEbrighton, an organization dedicated to providing support to families affected by Trans ideology in local schools and fostering a sense of community among concerned citizens, was established with the aim of addressing the pressing issues at hand. In early May, ✠Jerome, along with the other co-founders of PSHEbrighton, organized a highly anticipated meeting at a local hotel. This gathering served as a platform for affected families and their allies to come together, offering a space for them to receive updates on the local situation and connect with one another for support and networking opportunities.

The event garnered a substantial number of participants, with an estimated thirty parents and concerned individuals present. Attentively, they listened to the parents of the family responsible for commissioning the Monaghan Report, a thorough study that exposed the well-known Brighton & Hove Trans Toolkit. These parents bravely shared their personal encounters, shedding light on the manner in which they were treated by educational institutions and Council authorities alike. The report from the King’s Counsel echoes several concerns with regards to Equalities legislation, which ✠Jerome previously highlighted in his feedback to the Council prior to the Toolkit’s release.

The stories shared during the meeting were diverse and impactful, highlighting the various challenges faced by families within the community. Some parents recounted instances where their children had undergone social transition in schools without their knowledge or consent, leaving them feeling helpless and excluded from the decision-making process. Others spoke of their children being referred by Social Services to general practitioners for puberty blockers, a decision influenced by NVQ level Youth Workers from a biased LGBT charity.

The meeting served as a powerful reminder of the urgent need for advocacy and support for families affected by Trans ideology. It provided a safe space for individuals to share their stories, find solace in the company of others facing similar challenges, and forge connections that would prove invaluable in their journey towards seeking justice and understanding. By bringing together concerned citizens and affected families, PSHEbrighton is fostering a sense of unity and solidarity, ensuring that no one feels alone in their struggle. Through events like the meeting at the local hotel, PSHEbrighton is actively working towards raising awareness, advocating for change, and providing a support network that is desperately needed in the community.

Book Recommendations

From theology to culture war there are some brilliant minds still publishing worthy, well-researched content that I heartily recommend to you for reading. These would make great additions to your own or another’s personal library, perhaps as a gift?

Recommended Viewing

Reflections

Pentecost, celebrated 50 days after Easter, commemorates the descent of the Holy Spirit upon the apostles, empowering them to spread the Gospel. This event marks the birth of the Church and emphasizes renewal, courage, and the transformative power of the Holy Spirit.

Renewal and Empowerment: Just as the apostles were renewed and empowered, Pentecost calls on Traditional Catholics to seek the Holy Spirit’s guidance in addressing contemporary challenges. This renewal involves a deeper commitment to living out the faith and defending its values.

Courage and Witness: The Holy Spirit provided the apostles with the courage to preach despite opposition. Similarly, Traditional Catholics are called to be courageous witnesses in a world often hostile to their values. This means speaking out against ethical issues in healthcare, education, and societal norms, always with charity and truth.

Transformative Action: Pentecost is a time for transformative action, inspired by the Holy Spirit. Traditional Catholics can:

1. Advocate for Ethical Standards: Engage in public discourse to promote ethical standards in healthcare and education.
2. Support Families: Provide resources and support for families navigating complex issues, reinforcing the importance of parental rights and involvement.
3. Political Engagement: Participate in petitions and dialogue with policymakers to influence legislation that protects life and upholds traditional values.
4. Community Involvement: Foster a community spirit that supports and educates on Catholic teachings, helping others understand and live out their faith.

Unity and Prayer: Pentecost also emphasizes unity, as the apostles were united in prayer when the Holy Spirit descended. Traditional Catholics are encouraged to unite in prayer, asking for the Holy Spirit’s guidance and strength. This unity is crucial in fostering a strong, supportive community capable of enacting positive change.

Continued Vigilance: Just as the early Church faced numerous challenges, today’s Church must remain vigilant. This involves ongoing education, advocacy, and a commitment to upholding the dignity of every human being, in alignment with Catholic teachings.

In embracing the spirit of Pentecost, Traditional Catholics can find the strength and guidance needed to address contemporary issues with faith, courage, and compassion, ensuring that their actions are always rooted in the transformative love of the Holy Spirit.

Praying for vocations

Pentecost Embertide is a period in the liturgical calendar that traditionally includes days dedicated to prayer, fasting, and almsgiving. These periods, known as Ember Days, occur four times a year, corresponding to the natural seasons. Specifically, Pentecost Embertide follows the feast of Pentecost, marking the transition into summer.

Tradition:
The observance of Ember Days dates back to the early Church, where these days were set aside for prayer and fasting to sanctify the seasons and to ask for God’s blessings on the new crops and harvest. Over time, the focus of these days also included prayers for vocations to the priesthood and religious life. This practice underscores the Church’s recognition of the need for dedicated individuals to serve in various ministries.

Necessity of Praying for Vocations:
Praying for vocations during Pentecost Embertide is rooted in the belief that the Holy Spirit, who descended upon the apostles at Pentecost, continues to guide and inspire individuals to serve God and the Church. The prayers during this time are especially fervent as the faithful seek the outpouring of the Holy Spirit to call more workers to the vineyard.

The necessity is twofold:

Spiritual Renewal: The prayers serve as a reminder of the continuous need for spiritual renewal and commitment within the Church.
Sustaining the Church’s Mission: Vocations are vital for sustaining the Church’s mission of evangelization, education, and charitable works. By praying for vocations, the faithful express their dependence on divine providence to provide shepherds for the spiritual guidance of the community.
Ember Days during Pentecost offer a structured opportunity to focus on these prayers, aligning with the liturgical emphasis on the Holy Spirit’s role in the Church.

Please pray for the new formation house proposed by Archbishop Vigano, and likewise our own effort to establish a formation house under my own aegis here in Brighton.

In conclusion, praying for vocations to the priesthood and religious life during Advent Embertide is essential for the Church, especially during times of crisis. It is a way to invite Christ to send more laborers to the harvest, honor the contributions of religious orders, and ask for their intercession in renewing the Church. By praying for vocations during this time, we are participating in the Church’s mission to spread the Gospel and to build a stronger, more vibrant faith community.

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.

Prayer Requests

Pray for vocations
Pray for traditional seminaries and the creation of formation houses
The Church – contending with the crisis of faith

Become a Warrior Teacher

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.

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.

Petitions

Current Public Petitions Regarding Relationships & Sex Education (RSE) in the UK

There are several public petitions related to Relationships and Sex Education (RSE) in the UK, reflecting various concerns and opinions on the subject. Here are some notable ones:

1. Strip Ruth Hunt of her peerage for her role in the gender medical scandal
   • Summary: There has been wide cross-party support for the Cass Review, which delivered stinging criticisms of NHS gender clinics and found that for most young people, a medical pathway is not the best way to treat gender-related distress. It also found there is little or no evidence about the long-term effects of puberty blockers and sex hormones for the under-18s.
   • Link: Change.Org
2. New RSHE guidance for schools MUST become law
   • Summary: Following the election, it will be the responsibility of the incoming government and the new Education Secretary to review this consultation and decide whether to uphold the guidance and whether it should be statutory – which means schools MUST follow it.
   • Link: CitizenGo
3. Stop divisive Progress Pride flag displays
   • Summary: Christian Concern is objecting to a massive display of Progress Pride flags planned for Regent Street in 2024. These divisive, gaudy displays are completely inappropriate for this historic, iconic street at the centre of London. They make everyone who doesn’t support the whole LGBTQ+ agenda feel unwelcome.
   • Link: CitizenGo

For more detailed information, you can refer to the specific petitions linked above and the GOV.UK website, which provides comprehensive guidance and updates on RSE policies.

Current Public Petitions Regarding Changes to the UK’s Abortion Laws

There are several active public petitions in the UK addressing proposed changes to abortion laws. These petitions reflect a wide range of perspectives on this highly contentious issue. Here are some of the notable petitions:

1. Remove references to ‘gender identity’ from relationships education guidance
   • Summary: This petition argues against the inclusion of gender identity in RSE guidance, citing concerns about political indoctrination and inconsistency with the Education Act.
   • Link: Remove references to ‘gender identity’
2. Review abortion laws to reduce the gestational limit
   • Summary: A cross-party group of MPs has proposed reducing the upper gestational limit for abortions from 24 weeks to 22 weeks. This petition supports the amendment, highlighting that medical advancements have increased the survival rate of babies born at 22 weeks.
   • Link: Right to Life UK
3. Ban sex-selective abortions
   • Summary: This petition seeks to make it explicitly illegal to perform abortions based on the sex of the fetus, addressing concerns that sex-selective abortions are occurring in the UK despite current legal ambiguities.
   • Link: Right to Life UK
4. Oppose decriminalisation of abortion
   • Summary: This petition opposes any move to decriminalise abortion in the UK, arguing that current laws provide necessary safeguards to ensure ethical medical practice and protect both women and unborn children.
   • Link: British Medical Association
5. End ‘DIY’ Abortion Services
   • Summary: This petition calls for the cessation of ‘DIY’ abortion services, arguing that they endanger women’s lives and lack proper medical supervision, thus advocating for stricter regulations.
   • Link: Right to Life UK

Current Public Petitions Regarding Abortion Laws in the USA

1. Nebraska Right to Abortion Initiative (2024)
   • Summary: This initiative proposes an amendment to the Nebraska Constitution to establish a right to abortion until fetal viability, defined by the professional judgment of the treating healthcare practitioner.
   • Link: Ballotpedia
2. End Abortion in the USA
   • Summary: The Moral Outcry is a petition aimed at making abortion illegal in all 50 states in the USA. The petition was instrumental in the reversal of Roe v. Wade and continues to push for comprehensive abortion bans nationwide.
   • Link: The Moral Outcry

These petitions represent the diverse and often conflicting views on abortion laws in the UK, highlighting ongoing debates about gestational limits, sex-selective practices, and the broader legal framework surrounding abortion.

The Sevenfold Gifts

The sevenfold gifts of the Holy Spirit are wisdom, understanding, counsel, fortitude, knowledge, piety, and fear of the Lord. These gifts, rooted in the prophecy of Isaiah (Isaiah 11:2-3), are considered essential for living a Christian life that is aligned with the will of God and are imparted to the faithful through the Sacrament of Confirmation.

Wisdom is the gift that enables us to perceive and cherish the divine truths. It allows us to see things from God’s perspective, elevating our judgment beyond mere human insight. This divine wisdom helps us to love God more profoundly and make decisions that align with His divine will.

Understanding is the ability to grasp the essence of the truths of our faith. It goes beyond intellectual comprehension, allowing us to penetrate the meaning of Scripture and the teachings of the Church. Through understanding, we are able to deepen our faith and become more enlightened in our spiritual journey.

Counsel is the gift that helps us to discern the right path, especially in difficult situations. It is a divine guidance that assists us in making prudent decisions, ensuring that our choices reflect God’s will. Counsel allows us to act with discretion and avoid the pitfalls of sin and error.

Fortitude provides us with the courage and strength to face trials and challenges. It empowers us to stand firm in our faith, even in the face of persecution or adversity. Fortitude is the gift that sustains our resolve and enables us to persevere in our Christian duties.

Knowledge is the ability to see the circumstances of our life as God sees them. It helps us to recognize the hand of God in our daily experiences and understand His divine plan. This gift enlightens our mind to the mysteries of faith and the wonders of God’s creation.

Piety instills in us a profound respect and love for God and His Church. It fosters a filial devotion and a genuine reverence for the sacred. Through piety, we develop a heartfelt desire to worship God and serve Him with humility and love.

Fear of the Lord is the gift that fills us with awe and reverence for God. It is not a fear of punishment, but a profound respect for the majesty and holiness of God. This gift helps us to avoid sin and remain in a state of grace, recognizing the greatness of God’s love and mercy.

As we reflect on these sevenfold gifts of the Holy Spirit, let us be mindful of our calling to manifest the Pentecostal charism in our lives. The Holy Spirit, who descended upon the Apostles at Pentecost, empowered them to boldly proclaim the gospel and live out their faith with conviction and zeal. We too are called to be witnesses of Christ, embodying the gifts of the Holy Spirit in our daily lives.

Let us strive to cultivate these gifts, allowing them to transform us and guide our actions. By doing so, we become instruments of God’s grace, bringing His love, peace, and truth to the world. Embrace the wisdom and understanding that lead us to deeper faith, seek counsel and fortitude to navigate life’s challenges, grow in knowledge and piety to honor God more fully, and maintain a reverent fear of the Lord to keep us on the path of righteousness.

May the Holy Spirit fill us with His divine presence, empowering us to live as true disciples of Christ. Let us go forth with courage and joy, bearing witness to the transformative power of the Holy Spirit in our lives. Amen.

Miserere nobis

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