Eldest daughter....

The catholic church in France is often referred to as "the eldest daughter" of the Church, because of the unbroken link with the Bishop of Rome stretching back to the 2nd century.

51% of French people are counted as Catholics but a tiny proportion attends church. All their numbers are falling and yet the numbers seeking baptism, weddings and funerals are not falling so fast. There are many more in religious orders than say in UK.

So - as often in France - it is hard to see the wood for the trees.

This is a detail from the church in Talloires on Lake Annecy. (service once a fortnight).

Hope commenting will resume midweek!