Fr Fergus spoke about priests and lay people who had resisted Nazism as it tightened its grip on mainland Europe in the 1930’s and 40’s.

But this was no dry as dust history lesson. Eloquent, witty, informed and passionate about his subject, Fr Fergus transmitted the stories of four individuals motivated by their Christian faith.

He also made the point that their human flaws made their stories more accessible and inspiring for our Christian journeys today.

Fr Fergus posed an important question: “Does the society we now inhabit actually want heroes anymore?”  These individuals took risks and refused to comply with the orders of the day, saving thousands of lives across Europe – they were not “Yes-Men” (nor “Yes-Women”).

Despite the sweltering heat of the library, Fr Fergus kept everyone riveted with his wit and knowledge which included the origin of the name Kir for the blend of cassis and white wine (Kir Royale with champagne)…

Did you know that the drink previously known as blanc-cassis was renamed in honour of resistance fighter Canon Felix Kir? He served it to the many delegations he entertained in his role as Mayor of Dijon and as a pioneer of the town twinning movement. Legend has it that De Gaulle never forgave the cassock-clad Kir for entering the liberated city of Dijon, sat on a tank!

Our thanks also go to Teresa Brand, Anna Cunningham, Hope Swales and Alison Bearn for the resume to (including Kir) that provided an opportunity for further fellowship, conversation and laughter.