Allow us our right to Christian faith
I was horrified to read in the papers of the nurse in England who was disciplined for offering to pray with her patients.
I find it hard to accept that in a so-called Christian nation, we are not allowed to express our faith and belief. When you travel to certain parts of the British mainland, you can hear from Muslim mosques their call to prayer – and no complaint is made.
Queen Victoria said that this great nation was founded on the Holy Bible. Now, it is not politically correct to even mention the Bible.
We are continually being told that we must help people holistically; indeed, I have read many articles by the National Health Service which state that a patient must have holistic care to ensure that they can be on the road to recovery.
It seems this nurse was attempting to look to their spiritual and physical needs in a way that wasn't pushy or threatening and it would be my desire that many more would take their vow more seriously to look after all patient needs.
The crux of this matter is that the nurse was not threatening – she was living out her Christian beliefs and trying to help people by showing that she cared. It is clear that this was her purpose.
That we are now part of a country that disciplines people for living the love of their Christian faith out loud is sadly depressing, especially whilst rampant hatred is preached from many other venues with no interference.
If the doctor was to recommend that I see an acupuncturist for nerve problems – I would not take offence, so there should be no offence in this case either.
I salute this nurse in her gentle attempt to bring hope and love into the lives of her patients – and am saddened that her holistic approach has ended with disciplinary action.
If we all showed the same love and compassion for people, this world would be a much better place for everyone.
Alderman Jim Shannon MLA,
DUP Strangford
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Weather for Belfast
Tuesday 14 February 2012
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