03 August 2016, The Tablet

"The state of the Church reflects the general decline of rural village life", says Fr Kevin Eastell

by Fr Kevin Eastell

Violent history

 

A car journey through rural France tends to be a more leisurely experience than driving in England, simply because there is so much more space. The Christian presence in the landscape is inescapable. France possesses some of the most beautiful churches in the world, and its rich Christian history is demonstrated by the ubiquitous calvaires and wayside shrines inspired by the devotion of the faithful.

France’s faith is deeply embedded in its soul and its soil. It has survived many things, including brazen nepotism: on the eve of the French Revolution in the eighteenth century, every one of its numerous bishops was drawn from an aristocratic family.

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Comment by: Mark
Posted: 22/08/2016 04:15:29
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Comment by: MaggieW
Posted: 14/08/2016 12:26:51
Most interesting Father Kevin. We will seek out the memorial to Père Noel Pinot in Angers Cathedral. We, like most people, were shocked and saddened by the murder of Père Hamel. One can't help but draw parallels between his death and that of Père Répin, and reflect on the pitiless doctrines that drove the killers. May they, and all martyrs for the faith, rest peacefully in Christ.
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Comment by: Fr. David Valentin
Posted: 06/08/2016 11:48:46
Many of us "retired" priests, Roman Catholic or Anglican, Orthodox still carry the care of the faithful in our hearts, as we take seriously the charge given to us on the day of our Ordination. One never stops being a priest, one carries it even to the grave! May all Christians Ordained and Lay, rejoice that Our Lord continues to encourage us, and may more be found to serve at the Altars of God!
Comment by: Jim
Posted: 05/08/2016 22:49:56
I live in America. What remains of my French ancestry is in my heart .... I am thankful to my French ancestors for the Catholic faith which has always helped me continue on with so many struggles that I have. I remember and will always love the Catholic Church. I speak and write in English, but my heart is French. God Bless Père Jacques Hamel.
Comment by: Jim
Posted: 05/08/2016 22:41:39
I will remember. France may have forgotten.....but some will remember. God Bless Père Jacques Hamel. His memory lives.