English/French rivalry!

Now that David Beckham is joining the football club Paris Saint-Germain, is this a sign that English/French rivalry is finally over ?

The UK parliament has voted in favour of a law allowing same-sex marriages and the French government is in the final process after debating nearly 5000 amendments!!

On the other hand, we are hearing rumours of the UK leaving the European community (they aren't in the Euro zone anyway) and countries are looking at ways of protecting their independance.

On the religious front: here is some interesting news on the way migrant groups in France are contributing to the religious landscape here.

  The English in particular have brought their faith with them and, funnily enough, the French are very partial to their version of faith! Just as cup cakes are in fashion, and Gospel has been appreciated and sung everywhere, now Christmas Carol services are the 'must' and local Anglican communities (as well as other international churches) are making the most of this desire to really experience Christmas by organizing Carol concerts and home-made mince pies for their communities.

The English churches bring with them the community activities and spirit typical of their culture and the article gives a whole list of chances to meet together, to help one another and others, socialize, offer mother and toddler groups, etc; and chances to explore the Christian faith.

Rev Jeremy Cross of Christ Church, Brittany, has also noticed congregations are growing because "many people are happy to find a readymade English-speaking community".

The article concludes: "Whether in search of deaper meaning, family support, security, companionship, good works or even mince pies, the English-speaking flocks continue to worship."

Many other migrant groups have either formed churches or are changing the cultural landscape of existing churches. They are bringing a freshness, and through their need to integrate, they are helping French churches to question their own church culture and practices and this is enriching their communities.