By Ray McNally, parishioner at Our Lady of the Wayside, Shirley

When something sacred is mocked, silence is not an option

This has been the shared experience of many parishioners in Solihull, who have come together in recent weeks after Christmas cards mocking Jesus Christ appeared once again on sale at the Sainsbury’s store in Shirley.

For several years now, long-standing parishioner and youth leader Ray McNally has raised concerns about the cards, approaching both the store and Sainsbury’s central team with patience and respect. His hope has always been simple, that what Christians hold sacred is treated with the same dignity afforded to all faiths. Many within the parish community and across neighbouring parishes and the diocese share that concern, recognising the need to stand gently but firmly for what is holy.

This year, the cards returned for a third time. After prayer and reflection, Ray felt called to act, not in anger but in witness. Supported by the parish of Our Lady of the Wayside, a peaceful gathering took place on 23 November outside the store. It was a quiet but heartfelt reminder that faith matters. A short video message recorded by Ray’s son was later shared online and reached an extraordinary audience nationwide, prompting wide reflection on why respect for religious belief is essential in our society.

At its heart, whilst this movement is a peaceful protest, it is also about discipleship. It reflects the Diocesan Vision, especially the call to Evangelisation, inviting Christians to witness to Christ in the public square with courage, charity, and hope. As Bishop Timothy Menezes noted in a recent homily, moments such as these ask us to show what it means to follow the Lord with integrity and love.

A final peaceful gathering will take place on Sunday 21 December at 2pm outside Sainsbury’s, Stratford Road, Shirley. All are welcome, please come and stand together in unity and prayer, affirming the dignity of our faith and the respect owed to every religious tradition.

Bishop Timothy added: "Evangelisation is one of the main themes of Archbishop Bernard’s Diocesan Vision.

"Asking people to consider how using the name Christ in a blasphemous way is a legitimate way of witnessing to our faith in Jesus Christ and educating those who do not see how this gives offence.

"Let’s all look for ways to make our faith count in everyday situations like this."

Ray has received the following response from Sainsbury's: "We offer a wide selection of Christmas cards and our ranges vary each year so that there is something for everyone. We welcome customer feedback on our designs and your comments have been shared with the relevant teams.

"We fully respect your right to share your views publicly and through peaceful demonstration. However, we do not have any further updates to provide and our position on this matter remains unchanged."

Follow Ray's updates on Instagram

Listen to Ray's recent interview with Ed James on BBC WM

(Listen from 8 mins 20 secs in).