Scottish Catholic Observer

The people of Glasgow rallying together after the fatal Police helicopter crash at The Clutha bar on Friday came as no surprise but remains, nonetheless, a credit to the city and its inhabitants. Given the proximity of St Andrew’s Cathedral and Glasgow Mosque to the scene of the accident, it was wonderful to see the religious communities in the city help the emergency services and the public at the scene of the accident throughout the night, into St Andrew’s Day, and beyond.

No doubt in the coming days, weeks and months we will hear of the funerals of the those who lost their lives and the bravery of all involved. This week Pope Francis joins us in mourning the dead and consoling their loved ones. His message to Archbishop Philip Tartaglia of Glasgow about the sad loss and the bravery shown was heartfelt and welcome.

Scots, particularly Glaswegians, are a legendary fighting people but when that spirit is the fight to help others stay alive then it is truly something to be proud of, be it at the scene of the crash last weekend or the support that continues to come in, via charities such as SCIAF, to help those overseas such as the survivors of Tyhoon Haiyan in the Philippines. The first Sunday of Advent has passed and the second will soon be upon us. As we prepare for Christmas—practically and, most importantly, spiritually—let us put the hard work of Catholic charities on our gift list and give them a boost at this time of year.

And, no doubt, that famous fighting spirit will be of great use as Glasgow parishioners take part in the archdiocesan consultation that has begun in order to plan ahead for the best use of priests and resources in the future. Working together for the best future possible for our parishes, dioceses and Church is a far better plan than selfishly fighting amongst ourselves, as some reports last week would have us do. Many Catholics rightly have a historic and emotional attachment to their own home parish. However, with the right provisions in place, communities will still be supported by Glasgow Archdiocese and the Church can emerge all the stronger as a result, and ready for the challenges of the future. For that, truly, is the Spirit.

Pic: Archbishop Philip Tartaglia of Glasgow met with members of the emergency services at the Clutha Vaults, scene of the police helicopter crash, on Tuesday