Churches are at the heart of many communities around Britain and are active in supporting the poor and vulnerable. According to a new Catholic Labour MP, his party needs to follow their example if it is to win back the electorate’s trust I attended, the other week, the civic service held annually at the Anglican St Helens Parish Church after the election of the new mayor of our borough. It is an important event that marks the end of one political year and the beginning of another. For me, as the newly elected Labour Member of Parliament for St Helens North, it was an occasion that allowed me to reflect on my responsibilities, at a time when both my community and my party face an un­certain future.In my constituency, churches are at the centre of community life. They are part of