Pandemic has caused new poverties – Bishop McKeown

We are facing a period of new poverties as we come out of lockdown, of economics, of education and of hope, said Bishop Donal McKeown of Derry.

“In a society with huge gaps between the well-off and the poor, an economic downturn first strikes the weakest and those who were hanging on by their fingertips,” Dr McKeown said.

“If we structure our education system in such a way as to advantage the already advantaged, are we building a future based on community or on competition?

“[T]here will be a poverty of hope for many people. Can we offer a way of looking at life which inspires our young people to look forward rather than just anaesthetising them?”

Bishop McKeown believes we have much to learn from the last few months, with large numbers turning to prayer and others rediscovering the domestic church.

Apologetic

As churches reopen, the Church should not be apologetic for what Jesus teaches, we must offer a message of healing and hope.

“Many people are frightened and insecure,” said Dr McKeown. “They need to at least have the chance to hear a message of healing and hope. Today’s missionary training from Jesus tells us not to be afraid of criticism for speaking the uncomfortable truth unto power.”