You’ve seen news about the British Foreign Office memo , which suggested events for the pope, on his visit to England—including opening an abortion clinic and apologizing for the Spanish Armada.
The New Statesman points out
People think it is a joke. That is to say, it was written as a joke. This is unsurprising, given the range of suggestions . . . . In fact, I am reliably told by a senior Whitehall source: “This was not written as a joke. It was meant to be a serious brainstorming by various people designed for a meeting. I know it is hard to believe but it is serious.” In which case, the memo says more about the mind-set of what one official calls an “aggressive secular fundamentalism” that is entrenched in the Foreign Office, than it does about the Papal visit which, for all the Vatican’s faults, remains a good thing.
Hard to disagree with the conclusion: “childish and frankly idiotic provocations of some sniggering officials with too much time on their hands is an embarrassment to Britain.”
The Foreign Office has now apologized .
While I have you, can I ask you something? I’ll be quick.
Twenty-five thousand people subscribe to First Things. Why can’t that be fifty thousand? Three million people read First Things online like you are right now. Why can’t that be four million?
Let’s stop saying “can’t.” Because it can. And your year-end gift of just $50, $100, or even $250 or more will make it possible.
How much would you give to introduce just one new person to First Things? What about ten people, or even a hundred? That’s the power of your charitable support.
Make your year-end gift now using this secure link or the button below.
