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Religious minorities in Afghanistan, The rise and fall of Christian Ireland, George Harrison’s ‘My Sweet Lord’ 50 years on

William Crawley looks at the ethical and religious issues of the week.

As the UK urges the Taliban to guarantee a safe passage for those who want to leave Afghanistan beyond the 31 August deadline, there have been calls in the US to prioritise the resettlement of members of minority religious groups at risk of persecution. This week, William Crawley explores the situation on the ground for minority Christians and Hazara Shia Muslims.

Ireland has long been regarded as the land of saints and scholars. Yet, despite Christianity’s long dominance on the Island of Ireland, it’s decline over recent years has been rapid. History professor Crawford Gribben tells the story in his new book, ‘The Rise and Fall of Christian Ireland’.

George Harrison’s ‘My Sweet Lord’ was instrumental in popularising the Hindu divine form of Krishna in the West. Half a century on, we report on how Krishna found a place on George Harrison’s biggest hit and how the former Beatle’s legacy endures among the UK’s Hare Krishna movement and beyond.

University can be a time when personal beliefs are challenged, changed or super-charged. As students prepare for the start of a new academic year, we bring together two undergraduates - both Christians - to explore the impact of new-found freedom on faith.

Producers: Dan Tierney and Alistair Kleebaur.

Editor: Helen Grady.

Available now

44 minutes

Broadcast

  • Sun 29 Aug 2021 07:10

My Sweet Lord: How the Hindu god Krishna found a place on George Harrison’s biggest hit

My Sweet Lord: How the Hindu god Krishna found a place on George Harrison’s biggest hit

Interviewing the man responsible for the words "Hare Krishna" getting into My Sweet Lord.

All the colours of the rainbow

All the colours of the rainbow

The Covid-19 rainbows painted by children today are part of a rich and ancient symbolism.

Podcast