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“Sanctuary: An Act of Defiance” comes to BBC Sounds

Tune in to a brand-new podcast on BBC Sounds, titled Sanctuary: An Act of Defiance. Presented by Father Azariah France-Williams of The Ascension, Hulme, the podcast details the story of…


Tune in to a brand-new podcast on BBC Sounds, titled Sanctuary: An Act of Defiance. Presented by Father Azariah France-Williams of The Ascension, Hulme, the podcast details the story of Sri Lankan activist Viraj Mendis, who sought sanctuary at the church in the late 1980s. Facing persecution in Sri Lanka for his advocacy of Tamil rights, Mendis took refuge at The Ascension under the protection of then-vicar Father John Methuen, remaining there for two years before being deported in 1989 – an event that sparked national debate and international attention.

The podcast delves into this fascinating story through interviews, reflections and archival materials, exploring the events that happened, the political and public response, and the legacy of this extraordinary act of defiance.

The Ascension held a special launch event for the podcast last week. All the episodes are now available to stream – listen on BBC Sounds.

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