Scottish Catholic Observer

This week’s report on the work of the Society of St Vincent De Paul Scotland in Govanhill is a timely reminder of the tremendous good done by the Catholic Church every day in Scotland. It is the most densely populated area in Scotland and one of the poorest. The poverty breeds crime, which in turn heightens tensions between the many different ethnic groups. And at the heart of things is the Church, trying to make a difficult situation a little better. The work of Margo Upritchard and others with Govanhill’s Roma is helping some of the very poorest people in Scotland. As our report reveals, the conditions the Roma live in Govanhill are shocking. So the Church helps.

That help doesn’t just mean the Roma. By empowering the Roma women, they improve their children’s lives and help integrate them into the broader community. While politicians and blowhards howl that Govanhill is a ‘ghetto’ and beyond redemption, the Church acts.

This is just one dramatic example. Up and down Scotland, people in our parishes are holding this country together with their generosity and dedication.

In 2017, the Scottish Catholic Observer will tell you many of those stories and how you can support them. One way would be to give a little money to the SSVP the next time you pass one of their collection boxes.

The story of Craig Asher is a heart-breaking one. Diagnosed with stomach cancer not long after his wife gave birth to their first child. Understandably, she is reaching for any possible solution to help him survive, for their son’s sake. Their story is a powerful testament to the power of Faith and family. We can and should pray for them, and help them if they can. Such tragedy is hard to understand, but our response must be kindness and love.

The news that the relics of St Maximilian Kolbe are to visit Aberdeen is tremendous. Of the many saints of the 20th century, St Maximilian has a special resonance, because of the unique nature of his heroism in the face of hideous horror. His sacrifice continues to inspire. May his relics carry his spirit into Scotland and each of us.