Fr Ashley Beck is a priest of the archdiocese of Southwark, and Senior Lecturer in Pastoral Ministry at St Mary’s University, Twickenham. He is also President of the Catholic Theological Association. He has been the Catholic Bishops’ representative on the think-tank ‘Faith in Europe’ for many years.
Fr Ashley led a study day entitled ‘The Catholic Church and the European Project’ at Gidea Park Catholic Church on Saturday 6th October 2018.
Fr Ashley pointed out that the roots of the European Project lie in Catholic Social Teaching, as developed by the Popes for over a century. International relations should be marked by solidarity between nations. Solidarity is the true path to peace and development. The European vision, born from the experience of devastating war, is to work together for the common good.
Pope St John Paul II recognised the importance of leaving behind the rivalries of history. Pope Francis was awarded the Charlemagne prize in 2016. He speaks of creativity as part of the European ideal. The attitude to migrants has been a litmus test. Care for migrants has been a constant of Catholic teaching since the Second World War. Human beings are created in the image of God and their rights are inviolable.
Fr Ashley suggested various initiatives parishes can take to foster a change of attitude and to celebrate the richness of our international communities. Such celebration should be rooted in worship and in an appreciation that the Catholic Church welcomes all people whatever their origin.