by Catholics in time of war, and particularly for use with gasmasks, has just been designed by a Franciscan priest, Fr. Anthony, of Erith, and makes its appearance today for the first time.
his approval both to the idea of the badge and to the particular design chosen, and the Air Raid Precautions Department of the Home Office has agreed that it is important to identify Catholics by this means.
Two badges are in preparation, one for the clergy and one for the laity. Both carry a well-defined cross and, with the approval of the Cardinal, the letters " R.C."
Several types of badges will be made, one printed on rubber with an adhesive backing for fixing to the rubber gas-masks, and others in the form of brooches to be pinned on to clothes, and fitted with wrist straps.
Arrangements for the manu facture and distribution of the badges are in the hands of Messrs. Liturgicraft, Ltd., of 18, Grape Street, London, to whom all enquiries should be addressed.
Mr. Francis Began, a director of Liturgicraft, told the Catholic Herald this week that the badges are being sold on a non-profit basis, adding, however, that it would be possible for priests, etc., to arrange for reduced rates if buying large quantities.