The former Taoiseach of Ireland, John Bruton gave an inspiring lecture entitled: “Human Dignity in a changing Europe, an Irish perspective,” in the Metropolitan Cathedral and Basilica of St Chad, Birmingham, on Saturday, 10 July.
Archbishop Bernard Longley pictured with the former Taoiseach of Ireland, John Bruton, and Canon Patrick Browne, Administrator of St Chad's Cathedral, Birmingham.
Archbishop and Taoiseach More than fifty delgates attending the European Forum of National Laity Committees, known as the European Laity Forum (ELF) meeting at St Chad’s Cathedral, 6-11 July, joined members of the public to hear Mr Bruton, who became Leader of Fine Gael in 1990 and served as Taoiseach 1994-1997.
In his lecture, sponsored by the Brian Faul Foundation, John Bruton focussed on four key themes: Should religion and politics be kept separate? Is the EU open to being influenced by people of faith? The relevance of this Christian faith to the problems of Europe today. The relevance of Christian beliefs to the Irish peace process.
Former Taoiseach, John Bruton pictured with Canon Patrick Browne and me outside St Chad's Cathedral.
After the lecture, delegates had the opportunity to meet the former Taoiseach who also served as the Ambassador of the European Union to the United States 2004-2009.
Mr Seán O’Donnell, executive member of the European Laity Forum and Executive Director of the Brian Faul Foundation, who masterminded the study assembly in Birmingham said: “John Bruton’s highly motivating lecture demonstrated the clear need for Christians in Europe to stand up and be counted”.
Canon Patrick Browne, Administrator of St Chad’s Cathedral and Local Coordinator of the Papal Visit to the Archdiocese of Birmingham in September said: “It was a privilege to welcome John Bruton to St Chad’s Cathedral and give him an opportunity to hear first hand from the delegates at the European Lay Forum about their work and Christian involvement in countries throughout Europe.”
Canon Browne, who comes from County Offaly added: “On a personal note it was great to welcome a distinguished man from County Meath who continues to have an influence in the political life of Ireland.”
Former Taoiseach, John Bruton (centre), pictured outside St Chad's Cathedral Birmingham, with Mr Seán O’Donnell, organiser of the European Laity Forum, and Ms Dace Možeiko, Deputy Executive Director of the Brian Faul Foundation, based in Latvia.
