Scottish Catholic Observer

Joe Livingston, creator of Catholic group Foundation of Truth, was invited to give the Time for Reflection on Tuesday March 12 by Labour MSP James Kelly.

Delivering the Time for Reflection, Mr Livingstone said: “The world today needs love and peace. That is so needed. Today there seems to be a lack of true love in hearts.

“When true love is present, peace automatically ensues. The world tends to ignore that powerful fact. If leaders everywhere brought true love in their hearts to each negotiating table, there would be no suspicion or distrust.”

Essence of love

Mr Livingston spoke of the importance of empathy and truth, stating that without the latter there is a ‘distortion of reality, especially at the negotiating table.’

“I ask you—everyone who is listening to this short reflection around the world—will you help me? Will you look deep into your heart and at least try to put love—the true essence of love—into your actions, negotiations and meetings?

“Then and only then, a new attitude will begin to permeate your very being, which will be noticeable to others. It will produce peace and happiness.”

He added: “Love sometimes means ‘putting the other person first.’ This is the challenge. Let us all try to make this a better world.”

A ‘fantastic job’

James Kelly MSP said it was ‘a pleasure’ to welcome Mr Livingston and his wife May to parliament.

“As an international speaker who travels the world talking to different people, I knew he would do a fantastic job,” he added.

Foundation of Truth offer presentations in parishes led by Mr Livingston, and is under the spiritual directorship of Fr Alex Stewart, parish priest of Our Lady and St Joseph’s parish in Glenboig.

Bishop Joseph Toal of Motherwell Diocese gave his approval to the Foundation of Truth in 2013 after meeting with Mr Livingston.