Sunday

Original version

BBC Radio 4 LW

Religion & Ethics

A look at the ethical and religious issues of the week

BBC Radio 4 FM

Sunday: Elvis's Faith; Black British Muslims; Cathedral Music

02/10/2022

Elvis's Faith; Black British Muslims; Cathedral Music

BBC Radio 4 - Sunday, Elvis's Faith; Black British Muslims; Cathedral Music

Elvis Presley's step brother tells us about the singer's deep Christian faith and how it inspired his music.
The funding crisis facing Britain's cathedral choirs.

Elvis Presley was many things to many people, but few see him as a religious figure. He recorded several songs with religious themes, including Amazing Grace and How Great Thou Art, but rarely spoke publicly about his beliefs. Now, his step-brother, Billy Stanley has co-written a book, The Faith of Elvis, telling the story of the singer's interest in religion and in particular his love of the Bible. He shares his personal memories of Elvis, and how his songs were often inspired by his Christian faith.

About 10% of British Muslims are black and some have experienced racism from other Muslims.  The Muslim Council of Britain has acknowledged that as a "minority within a minority" they have often been marginalised, even within Muslim communities. They have just published a report examining what life is like for black British Muslims. It brings together around 40 essays from Black, African and Afro-Caribbean Muslims in the UK. We ask what needs to change to allow black Muslims to be more widely embraced and their contribution recognised in the UK.

The tradition of music making in Britain's cathedrals goes back centuries. Today, the choral music produced at many cathedrals is of the highest quality. But a report from the Cathedral Music Trust suggests it is facing a crisis. In recent times, two UK cathedrals have dissolved their choirs. Others are facing severe financial pressures. The Trust suggests that churches should invest in music as a core part of the service they provide to the community. But is it reasonable to expect churches to prioritise supporting music, when there are so many other demands on their funds?

Producers: Jonathan Hallewell and Louise Clarke-Rowbotham
Presenter: William Crawley

BBC Radio 4

Intelligent speech, the most insightful journalism, the wittiest comedy, the most fascinating features and the most compelling drama and readings anywhere in UK radio.

Accessibility links

Programme Index

Sunday

Elvis's Faith; Black British Muslims; Cathedral Music

Genres

Brand

BBC Radio 4 LW

About BBC Radio 4