November 5, 2006
Of the many things associated with London, fog is certainly one of them. But truth be told, having lived in the city for over a year, today was the first time I’ve ever seen real fog. I’m talking about the pea soup variety, the kind for which London has always been famous. Whether it’s due to man-made global warming or simply a natural change in weather patterns, the result is that the stereotypical foggy day in London town is not so typical anymore. You could say it’s downright rare. Things change.
In any event, I was enjoying the misty morning by strolling to the bank, gazing at tall buildings which disappeared into the clouds past the tenth floor, when a large burly man passed by on his bicycle. He surprised me by asking what order I represented, remarking how happily amazed he was to see me dressed in Christian religious garb. It was clear that this little encounter had been a great boost for him—a sign of hope.
Yes, things have changed, and continue to do so. Muslims are very noticeable with many dressed in traditional attire. Their numbers are increasing while the native British become more and more secular, or worse. Paganism/Satanism is not uncommon, and it is nothing out of the ordinary to see people openly displaying pentagram necklaces. Prince Charles has reportedly stated that if and when he is crowned king, he will no longer claim the title “Defender of the Faith,” but “Defender of the faiths.” God save the Queen, please, for as long as possible!
The heritage of England, steeped in Christianity and knee-deep in martyr’s blood, is rapidly eroding. Many British citizens quietly worry about the future, but sadly there is no evident sign of what really is at stake. A new slogan seen in many places is “Building a safe, just, and tolerant society.” Fine and well to a point, but at what cost? It really isn’t a question of change, because change is inevitable. It’s a matter of having a solid foundation, knowing who you are, where you came from and where you are going—knowing what you stand for and why. Christianity has been the moral fiber of western civilization for nearly 2000 years and it now appears to be in jeopardy here in England, not to mention the rest of Europe. And yet that doesn’t seem to be much of a concern to the public in general. Perhaps there is still a great deal of dense fog over here, only it’s just not in the air. It has settled into the minds and souls of the people. May the Lord indeed show us what is ours to do, and grant us all the grace we need to do it.
Br. Shawn Conrad O’Connor, CFR
St. Fidelis Friary, London, England
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