One of the frescos attributed to Giotto in the Upper Basilica of St Francis in Assisi gave pause for reflection on an issue of our day. It shows Francis meeting the Sultan of Egypt, Melek el Kamil, a man he developed a good friendship with. For Francis all persons were sisters and brothers whatever their culture, tradition, beliefs or nationality.

The implications of holding such a view might well affect our own praxis of politics, hospitality and spirituality.