" Believing that the war is, in essence, a conflict between the forces of materialism and spirituality, we are convinced that religion must play a paramount part in shaping and st,staining the morale of our people,"
said Dr. Downey, Archbishop of Liverpool, in a pastoral letter read in the churches of the archdiocese on Sunday last.
" The cathedral," continued Dr. Downey, " is symbolic of our faith and spirituality. It has, therefore, been decided by the executive committee that not only must the building continue but that it shall be encouraged as a reminder to us to seek the things that are above and as providing an opportunity for the outward expression of our faith and devotion.
"It is interesting to note that the authorities of the Liverpool Anglican Cathedral have also decided to continue the work of their building scheme.
NATIONAL POLICY " This is in accordance with the national and civic policy of keeping as many men as possible in employment."
Referring to the increased cost of materials and transport, and the additional burdens of war, Dr. Downey said he nevertheless trusted that funds would not be wanting to " continue uninterruptedly the work of our cathedral."
Referring to the special devotions for the Feast of Christ the King on Sunday next, Dr. Downey said: "The destructive forces of evil which in these days increasingly menace the civilisation of the world make it all the more desirable that we give expression to our own unswerving loyalty to the King of Kings."
VETERAN RETURNS TO SEA
Fr. Joseph Rockliff, well known on account of his extensive and long labours on behalf of sailors and seafarers in the Sea Apostolate, has returned to the sea despite his 70 years.
In a letter from " Somewhere on the High Seas" he says:
" Owing to ill-health and age I practically retired from active work, but I have decided to return to the sea, where I still feel able to be a source of consolation to the seafarers in their present dangerous predicament. I can still say Mass, thank God, and I think seafarers should get the benefit of whatever I may be able to do for their souls."
Fr. Rockliff, who was born in Liverpool, was an Army Chaplain in the Boer War and a Naval Chaplain in the Great War, and from 1929 until quite recently he was International Promoter of Apostolatus Marts.