Catholic priest Fr Terry Martin reflects on the Church’s teaching about animals and asks whether it has gone far enough in confronting the realities of factory farming. Drawing on Laudato si’, Catholic theology and his recent correspondence with the Vatican, he argues that animals must be taken more seriously within the Church’s moral life.
Laudato Si’
Animal cruelty is an issue that transcends cultural, geographical, and religious boundaries. It is a moral issue that calls for a united response from people of all faiths and beliefs. Among the voices calling for an end to such cruelty is Father Terry Martin, a vegan Catholic priest from West Sussex, England. Father Martin has gained attention for his outspoken stance against bullfighting, a tradition he views as inherently cruel and incompatible with Christian values. His advocacy highlights the importance of Christian involvement in the fight against animal cruelty and underscores the potential benefits of working alongside secular groups to achieve common goals. This article also includes the voices of other UK vegan clergy who are speaking out against bullfighting, adding to the growing chorus of religious leaders demanding change.
Duncan McNair, founder and CEO of Save The Asian Elephants, highlights the plight of Asian elephants, his work in seeking UK legislation to prevent the abuse of elephants and how his faith helped inspire him to take action.
Jacy Reese discusses his new book The End of Animal Farming, the direction of the animal advocacy movement, positive changes in religious thinking towards animal issues and how people of faith can take constructive steps in support of animals.

