In the wake of the Covid pandemic, the British government has put forward plans to temporarily cut the UK’s international aid budget by £5billion, a move condemned by the Jesuits in Britain.

One Jesuit priest felt so strongly about it, he went on a 24-hour protest fast to raise awareness of the issue with parishioners and the local community.

At 23 hours into his protest fast, Parish Priest of Saint Francis Xavier’s Church in Liverpool, Denis Blackledge, said:

“It’s been a humbling experience to see how a tiny pebble dropped into the water has rippled out and encouraged so many to join in this protest fast.

“The support and encouragement from parishioners, friends and colleagues has been so heartening, as have the encouraging words of Ian Byrne MP and Deputy Mayor, Jane Corbett, who led us in prayer.”

On the back of Father Denis’ fast, £700 was received in sponsorship, which will be divided between Jesuit Missions UK, Jesuit Refugee Service UK, and CAFOD.

The story was covered by The Tablet and you can read it here.

For those wanting to take action and support the campaign, you can find out more at Jesuit Missions UK here.