There have been countless thousands of discussions regarding the consequences the recent referendum in the UK that has resulted in a narrow vote to walk away from the European table. We are still in the early days of a political fog to make any firm predictions regarding outcomes.

 Of one thing we can be certain, that there has been a seismic shift across many aspects of our society, the effects of which have been felt from the Westminster bubble to the local corner shop. One friend a few days ago likened the coming change to that which came from the English Reformation in the 16^th Century.

 That is not as fanciful as it might first appear. The religious and political upheaval of those fateful years had long term effects that have only recently been challenged and an appreciation of differing views approached.

 One could argue that if there had been more discussion in the early 1500s the division in Christendom in the West would not have been so radical and painful. It was after all only some four hundred years since the East – West split of 1054.

 Yet this retrospective view does not take into account the very different societal patterns of the time. Absolute views were not the subject of open discussion.

 No-one ever said that re-shaping European relationships after the trauma of the 20^th century wars that ravaged the Continent, would be easy. It has been a gradual process that began with the Treaty of Rome and agreement between six nations, culminating in the much larger community that we are now leaving.

 No organisation is perfect, all have times when there are bumps on the road. There have however already been three outcomes from the Referendum result that give rise to serious concern for social stability in our country.

 Our political structure, both right and left, is in a state of melt down, with the arguments becoming personal and vindictive. Just at the time when enormous decisions have to be taken, there is hesitancy and discord. In so many instances those who have been elected by the people have become distanced from public opinion. Unless there is respect- both ways- then democracy is difficult to exercise. Confusion can only lead to other solutions being sought.

 That we should have outbreaks of street disturbance, God forbid but one element of the strains exposed by this vote has been the uncovering of a pattern of racist attitudes in different parts of the country that is deeply worrying. We have prided ourselves on having a multicultural, multi-faith mix where respect is shown, one to another. That seems to have been blown apart by some of the actions and views expressed.

 Last week, after morning mass, a young Hungarian woman was in floods of tears. Resident in the UK for thirteen years, she had been shocked by some of the comments on social medial outlets and was now very worried about her future with us in this country. It took ten minutes of gentle talking to console her and dry her tears. This story, repeated in many forms in different places is the consequence of Brexit campaign that played the anti-immigrant in a shameful manner. 

 And what of the future of our own United Kingdom ? For how long will the word ‘United’ be applicable to its constituent parts? If our exit from the EU reaches fruition, it will have given rise to a 2^nd referendum on Scotland ’s independence, and this time they are likely to succeed. The fragility of the border in Ireland , which will be our only land border with the EU will become all too apparent if Customs and Border controls are imposed. The years since the Good Friday Agreement have seen a relaxed and open arrangement to the benefit of all. Will this continue?

 In the midst of this social upheaval, what can be -should be- the role of the Church? A number of words come to mind, re-assurance, comfort, trust, faith. I am sure you could add to that short list. Let’s add one more, action. How should we act both in our local communities and on the wider national stage to the crisis we now face? Much thought for prayer and for the individual consolation of those now hurt, bruised and worried.

 I wrote this after the distress that followed morning mass.

 In familiar streets

Lies and half-truths

walk in procession

behind the cortege.

Troubled sounds

and nervous fears

take short cuts

through blind

alleyways,

bewildered tears

of blighted hope.

After many years,

insecurity is

a strange companion

in familiar streets.

Assuring words

and the gentle

clasp of comfort

ease the immediate

early morning hurt.

Closed eyes

and damp cheeks,

anxious for a future,

cannot look beyond

the immediacy

of this gathering

of love.

END