MEDIATION IN A UK SOCCER DISPUTE

EPISODE 7

THE MONSIGNOR MEETS THE FTFC NO 5

EPISODE 6 CONCLUDED;-

“The Monsignor clutched at the Pope’s words and, in particular, the reference to the “dignity of others”. It was not for him to adopt the language of the back page of the tabloid media or even of the FTFC’s dressing room. He needed to be dignified and sensitive and focus – not on the sexual issue of the No 5s extra curricular activities – but on the dignity of friendship, team spirit and personal responsibility. If he used the right words the approach would work. If he used the wrong words it would fail. He had to prepare, think it through, see matters from different perspectives and be aware of the sensitivity of the encounter and his choice of words. The Monsignor was facing a new challenge. He needed to prepare carefully.

So what did the Monsignor say?”

“Thankyou for agreeing to see me. You are a busy star footballer with matches and training and travel to undertake and so I am grateful that you have found time to meet with me.

Religion and football are not a natural mix but there is common ground between our two pursuits. We both have an important role in mixing with people. You are an individual with exceptional talents and people come to watch you in the hope that you will fulfil their dreams of supporting a top team. For myself, I try to widen my reach to embrace people who want to believe that following the path of the Almighty can lead them to a better life and a better after-life. You and I both want people to believe in us. We want them to follow our words, our example and enable them to live a better and more fulfilled life.

We both carry a big responsibility. Large numbers of football fans chant your name and give you love. In the same way people will chant the name of His Holiness The Pope at Mass in Rome and cheer news of his good health and moral teachings.

The Pope loves football. He displayed his passion when he met recently with players of Celtic FC. Let me recall his words “ While it is true that winning rather than losing a match is always preferred, it is not the most important aspect! More vital is the example you give when winning or losing, both on and off the field. An example that embodies the virtues of courage, perseverance, generosity and respect for the God-given dignity of others.”.

The Monsignor continued – His Holiness was quite clear. He told us to show courage, to persevere with our goals, to be generous of spirit and, most importantly, to respect the dignity of others. In your dressing room and with your fellow players His Holiness tells you to show respect and not to take advantage of others. These are fine words. I try to incorporate them in my daily activities – to respect people and not to take advantage of them. There is a message for us all. I need team spirit in my Church and you need team spirit in your dressing room. Let’s meet again in two months and exchange notes on our respective progress”

EPISODE 8  – THE MEETING EIGHT WEEKS LATER.