In the realm of political commentary, Keir Starmer's leadership style has drawn comparisons to an unconstitutional monarchy, with his inner circle resembling a royal court. As the Labour Party convenes in Liverpool, a city known for its anti-establishment sentiment, this satirical portrayal takes center stage.
The "Court of Keir" appears to be making its grand entrance into Liverpool, with various party figures assigned mock royal titles. Angela Rayner, dubbed the "Queen in the North," stands out among the courtiers. This theatrical representation extends to other prominent Labour members, including Rachel Reeves as "Keeper of the Privy Purse" and Sue Gray as "Keeper of the Gate."
While this political satire unfolds, the Church of England introduces a new service called Creation Tide. This recent addition to the ecclesiastical calendar focuses on environmental stewardship, a departure from traditional harvest celebrations. The service, held each September, emphasizes confessions of environmental failings and calls for waste reduction.
Creation Tide's inception follows a long history of agricultural-related observances in Christianity. Rogationtide, occurring before Ascension Day, involves blessing crops for a bountiful harvest. Lammas Day on August 1st celebrates the wheat harvest with special loaves. The popular Harvest Festival, introduced in 1843 by Reverend Robert Hawker, Christianized the secular "Harvest Home" tradition.
Critics argue that Creation Tide lacks the celebratory aspect of abundance found in earlier harvest rituals. The service's focus on environmental concerns, while timely, may not resonate as strongly with congregations accustomed to more joyous harvest celebrations.
"For fair weather... the sin of God didst once drown all the world, except eight persons: only His great mercy can save us from another plague of rain and waters."
In other news, the passing of Peter Jay prompts reflection on the complexities of public perception and intellectual prowess. Jay, once hailed as potentially "the cleverest man in Britain" by The Sunday Times magazine approximately 50 years ago, faced both admiration and ridicule throughout his career.
Jay's multifaceted life included roles as British Ambassador to the United States, BBC Economics Editor, and advocate for monetarism – a policy later championed by Margaret Thatcher. His connection to former Prime Minister Jim Callaghan as a son-in-law added to his public profile.
The article concludes by noting the shift in public discourse, suggesting that current discussions about intelligence would likely focus on women rather than men, with a pointed remark excluding Angela Rayner from such considerations.