Pope suffers two episodes of acute respiratory failure
Pope Francis has suffered two episodes of acute respiratory failure caused by an accumulation of mucus. The latest bulletin from the Vatican last night says: “Today, the Holy Father suffered two episodes of acute respiratory insufficiency, caused by a significant accumulation of endobronchial mucus and consequent bronchospasm. Two bronchoscopies were therefore performed, with the need to remove large secretions. In the afternoon, non-invasive mechanical ventilation was resumed. The Holy Father remained alert, oriented and cooperative at all times. The prognosis remains guarded.” Vatican News continues: “The Pope’s blood test values are unchanged, and suggest that he does not have leukocytosis (a high white blood cell count). This in turn suggests that there is no new infection, and the accumulation of mucus is merely the consequence of the Pope’s pre-existing pneumonia. The cause of the two attacks today was the reaction of the bronchi, which attempted to expel the accumulated mucus in order to eliminate the bacteria. The Pope’s clinical condition therefore remains complex, and further crises such as those that occurred this afternoon are possible”. Pope Francis, aged 88, was admitted to the Gemelli hospital in Rome on 14 February.
Oasis Charity Trust marks 40th anniversary
The Oasis Charity Trust, which was started by the Rev Steve Chalke and his wife Cornelia, as a home for vulnerable women in Peckham, and has grown into a massive community movement, celebrates its 40th anniversary with a parliamentary reception this evening. Under its social care umbrella, the organisation runs schools, youth clubs, housing projects, food banks and a youth offenders’ school, while also offering advice and support on issues ranging from mental health to the LGBTQI+ community. It aims to end disadvantage and create opportunity and has done so with tremendous success, operating in more than 50 communities in Britain, and six countries worldwide. Read more in Lianne Kolirin’s article here
‘Significant’ management failures at Winchester Cathedral
A review of Winchester Cathedral, following the departure of Dr Andrew Lumsden as Director of Music in April 2024, has found failures in leadership, including “the management of poor performance, unacceptable behaviour and contractual changes”. It said there was a “culture of secrecy” and an aversion to conflict. The review was ordered by the Bishop of Winchester, Philip Mountstephen, who said “The announcement of the Director of Music’s departure in April 2024 precipitated a chain of events which has revealed some significant failures, most significantly in leadership, management and communications”. He said there was no one person to blame and Winchester was not a failing cathedral. The Dean, Catherine Ogle, apologised for all who had been hurt and will immediately stand aside before her retirement date of 1 May. The vice dean, Canon Roly Riem, will take charge.
Bishop’s middle way to approach deep divisions in same sex debate
The Bishop of Leicester, Martyn Snow, who is leading discussions on same sex blessings in the Church of England, has produced a book arguing that the deeply divided church could learn lessons from wider society where different cultures and faith groups live side by side. “Can We Imagine a Future Together? Intercultural lessons for Living in Love and Faith”, explains that interculturalism is about seeing difference as a gift, to be given, received and responded to with thanks. He told a Church Times podcast that his approach was a middle way for a church which is deeply divided but does not want to separate.
Muslims invited into Windsor Castle state rooms for Iftar
More than 350 Muslims were invited into state rooms at Windsor Castle for Iftar, the meal which breaks a day of fasting for Ramadan. This was the first time that St George’s Hall had been used for this purpose. Omar Salha, the founder and chief executive of the Ramadan Tent Project, told the BBC: “The King is an excellent ambassador for this cause and is committed to community cohesion. We are incredibly grateful for his support towards the British Muslim community.”
Survey: British Hindus ‘do more to protect the environment than any other faith group’
A survey conducted for the Institute for the Impact of Faith in Life, suggests that British Hindus are more actively engaged in environmental projects than any other faith group. The report surveyed Christians, Muslims, and Hindus and found 92 per cent of Muslims and 82 per cent of Christians believed their faith taught them to care for the environment, but Hindus took more action, with 64 per cent participating in rewilding, 78 per cent changing their consumer habits, and 44 per cent joining environmental groups. Report is here
Israel takes on International Holocaust remembrance role
Israel has assumed the presidency of the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance, taking over from the United Kingdom in a role which lasts one year and includes the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II. The nation with presidency organises events to educate the public on the Holocaust. Israel’s year will focus on the theme ‘The Crossroads of Generations’, as the story of Holocaust survivors and witnesses is taken forward by a new generation.
Shrove Tuesday heralding Lent
Today is Shrove Tuesday, the last day before the penitential period of Lent begins and is traditionally used to finish off anything in the cupboard you are giving up for Lent. Hence, Pancake Day using up the fat, flour, eggs, milk and sugar, with a little lemon juice or maybe maple syrup. Read our explainer on Lent and Easter here
