Religion in North Wales and the challenge of building trust
Christian affiliation is declining in north Wales, while the number of people describing themselves as having no religion is rising, according to figures discussed at a Religion Media Centre Creating Connections event in Bangor yesterday. The meeting, held at Bangor University, brought together faith groups and journalists to explore the place of religion in Welsh society and how it is reported in the media. Representatives of other faiths attended the meeting, though their communities remain relatively small, numbering in the hundreds rather than thousands. The Bishop of Bangor, Dr Manon Ceridwen James, spoke about the challenge of rebuilding trust following several turbulent years for the diocese. Her predecessor, Andy John, retired in 2025 after critical reports into Bangor Cathedral identified safeguarding failures, blurred sexual boundaries, inappropriate conduct and weak financial controls. She said she had tried to be thoughtful, sensitive and kind, while recognising that rebuilding trust takes time. In an interview, she also stressed the importance of developing good relationships with journalists and ensuring that accurate information is available. The event included a panel discussion on the importance of taking Religion, Values and Ethics education seriously, as well as presentations from faith groups about their activities and contribution to society. A longer report and film will be published on our website soon.
Jesuit Refugee Service says revised right to remain rules are unjust
The Jesuit Refugee Service says there is no justice in the government’s revised proposals on the length of time refugees must wait before they can earn the right to remain. They say enforcing a wait of 20 years for some people will “delay their ability to build stable lives, reunite families, and contribute fully to the communities they call home”. Dr Sophie Cartwright, senior policy officer, said the proposals punish people who have been forced to make dangerous journeys. She says: “Refugees forced into debt and destitution after accessing essential asylum support will be punished for this. The Government says this is fairness but there is no justice here.
Vigils in the USA as the nation goes to the polls
Episcopalian churches in the USA held prayer vigils overnight preparing for today when the USA goes to the polls in the mid-term elections. The Episcopal News Service says an all-day online vigil organised by a religious community in Omaha will start at 8am. And further online vigils are planned for after the poll closes. The churches are concerned that the vote and outcome are peaceful, amid concerns over alleged voter suppression and political tension.
Jewish Democrats divided over Muslim candidate in Michigan Senate race
Jewish Democrats are divided over the Senate race in Michigan, where Muslim candidate Abdul El-Sayed is challenging Republican Mike Rogers. The Times of Israel reports that some Jewish Democrats are backing El-Sayed, arguing that differences over his criticism of Israel should not determine their vote. Others are uncomfortable with his position on Israel, with some community leaders urging voters to write in the name of Jewish poet Emma Lazarus rather than support either candidate. The dispute highlights tensions within the Jewish community over Israel, political identity and how to respond to candidates’ views on the conflict.
Catholic group says budget tackles symptoms not causes of poverty
The Catholic Social Action Network has criticised the Government’s Autumn Budget, saying it tackles the symptoms rather than the root causes of poverty and social injustice. While welcoming measures including increases to the minimum wage, help with energy bills and extra funding for affordable housing, it said the Budget failed to increase Universal Credit, which it described as insufficient to cover basic living costs. CSAN also called for rent stabilisation, higher housing allowances and a long-term strategy to prevent homelessness. Citing Pope Leo’s teaching on human dignity and the common good, it urged wealthier people to contribute more through a wealth tax.
