Bishop Philip writes…
We were surely all relieved last Friday when in the House of Commons MPs voted against a fresh move to legalise assisted suicide in England and Wales. The bill was narrowly defeated with 270 MPs voting for and 286 voting against. It was an answer to prayer and I wish to thank all those individuals, groups and MPs, plus many behind the scenes, who campaigned for the defeat of what was a dangerously flawed bill. On the other hand, its supporters and proponents have said that it is only a matter of time before the legislation will be reintroduced once again and when it does, it will be passed. Let us keep vigilant therefore in prayer and in our witness to the dignity and value of human life. Let us also work hard to support with love and care the elderly, the vulnerable and the dying and to promote ever-improving palliative care.
Meanwhile, welcome to this e-News issue 547 (2026/31) for Tuesday 15th September 2026. This week, let us keep the clergy and faithful of English Martyrs Reading in our prayers as they prepare to celebrate their centenary this coming weekend. May the Lord bless you with His love over these next days.
With all good wishes and an assurance of my prayers,
In Corde Iesu
+Philip
Bishop of Portsmouth
