Battersea parish hosts panel discussion on papacy of Pope Leo

l-r: Rev Erin Clark, Fr David O'Malley and Christopher Lamb during the discussion

Christopher Lamb, Vatican correspondent for CNN and Rev Erin Clark, Vicar of St Mary's Anglican church in Battersea were guest speakers at a packed meeting in the Sacred Heart church, Battersea on Thursday, to reflect on the hope and unity that Pope Leo's election might bring to our church.

Fr Peter Pagac SDB, Parish Priest hosted the event. The conversation was chaired by Fr David O'Malley SDB from the Salesian Community in Battersea.

In the warm up at the start, a few polls were taken using red and green cards to signal a response of "yes" or "no" from the audience. In response to questions, almost everyone present had a cross in their home; slightly fewer had a Bible. There was not a lot of enthusiasm for incense but there was a strong enthusiasm for the ordination of women deacons (close to 100%).

In the broad discussion from the panel, Christopher Lamb was able to give more detail about the conclave which elected Leo and an insight into the reasons why a Pope from the USA was now possible. Both speakers recognised the vital importance of Leo's time as a missionary with the poor in Latin America, his knowledge of languages, and his practical approach to problem solving. Christopher noted that Pope Leo's experience leading the Augustinian order and his more recent post at the Vatican in charge of appointing bishops would have given him much knowledge of the worldwide church.

They both reflected on the different style between Pope Leo and his predecessor Pope Francis. They pointed out that Leo was a man who believed in steady progress and process and has an ability to draw people into unity rather than polarise issues. But generally they felt both had similar dreams for the Church.

While the event was focused on Pope Leo it was also very ecumenical, underlining the worldwide reach of the Catholic Church and the growing closeness of Christian churches across the world. The importance of Catholic Social Teaching was emphasised as a practical bridge, building unity and hope.

The Q & A session raised a wide range of issues from the present wars in the Middle East, attitudes to the LGBTQ community, and the importance of youth as agents of change. Asked about how we can share our faith more widely. Erin said, first it was important to simply get to know our neighbours - "and from those encounters will come opportunities to share our hope in Jesus."

In addition to her church work, Rev Clark is a writer, speaker and facilitator. Her published work includes collections of poetry, nonfiction, and short stories. Her published work includes collections of poetry, nonfiction, and short stories. Some of her books, including Sacred Pavement: A do-it-yourself guide to spirituality in the city were promoted at the reception. Christopher Lamb's new title: 'American Hope' which looks ahead at Leo's pontificate - published by Headline Press on 26 March - was also available to order.

LINK

Sacred Heart Church Battersea: www.sacredheartbattersea.com/