2011 has seen a year of activity commemorating the 400th anniversary of the King James Bible. This Bible, possibly the single most influential text in the English language, was a great achievement of its day. But it also had lasting impact. In a speech last weekend to mark the anniversary, Prime Minister David Cameron said that it remains “one of the country’s greatest achievements”, and goes on to explain why.
The Prime Minister also argued that the country’s identity, its past and its present, could not be dissociated from this religious backdrop. He explained how the values and morals that underpin British society, values that “we should actively stand up and defend”, also flow from the Bible. As such, he noted, “we are a Christian country”, not in an exclusive sense, but in a way that encompasses other faiths – and those of no faith – as well. And he argued that “it is easier for people to believe and practise other faiths when Britain has confidence in its Christian identity”.
As we approach Christmas, the Prime Minister’s message will resonate to all who believe that religion not only has a place in the public square, but is at the heart of it. As David Cameron noted, “Christianity, faith, religion, the church and the Bible are all inherently involved in politics because so many political questions are moral questions”. He encouraged religious leaders to engage in politics, and politicians to respond. At a time when, globally, the four biggest religions have never been more significant, the Prime Minister is right to remind us that we need to understand faith, even if we do not believe, as we go about our daily lives.
My very best wishes for Christmas and the New Year to all those who kindly read and engage with this blog, and who work with my small, but active, Embassy to the Holy See.