I am finding myself increasingly baffled and, frankly, annoyed by an apparently growing tendency among European Christians to envy the restricting rules of other faiths. Surely what is particular to being a Christian is that we are free from such law: we have the unique privilege of not being obligated to give offence. Why aren’t we celebrating it? Rejoicing, praising, trumpeting it?

So, I might like to wear a crucifix round my neck, or abstain from meat on Fridays, but this is so obviously different from the sartorial or dietary laws of other faiths – Sikh turbans or Hindus not eating beef, for example – that any kind of comparison, and especially any suggestion of discrimination, is patently ridiculous. It is not an identity issue, but a style choice.

Our “laws” are of a different kind – about being “merciful like the Father”, long-suffering, gentle and courteous. Our laws would even suggest that if someone found my crucifix offensive I should simply take it off (or tuck it down into my cleavage where it would not be visible), smiling cheerfully and apologising for distressing them. I should be able, indeed, to fish my rosary out of my pocket and offer them that “other cheek” as well.