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Good morning.  It is a relief in the heat and humidity of the Mediterranean coast, to retreat into the air-conditioned comfort of the new Library of Alexandria in Egypt.  This spectacular building replaces one of the greatest libraries of the ancient world, whose destruction by fire became a symbol of the irretrievable loss of public knowledge.  Rather than half a million papyrus scrolls, each painstakingly copied, the modern Library aims to collect eight million volumes and to become once again a centre for the dissemination of knowledge and a place which promotes understanding between peoples.

Today, International Literacy Day, UNESCO reminds the global community of the value of being able to read and write in a world where nearly a fifth of adults still lack those basic skills.  Literacy has long been regarded as a human right, a tool that empowers and enriches individuals, communities and nations, and as a fundamental part of education, is essential in eradicating poverty and ensuring peace.  In the Bible, Luke’s Gospel tells how, in the synagogue of his home town of Nazareth, Jesus stood up to read from the scroll of the prophet Isaiah:  ‘The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he has anointed me to bring good news to the poor.  He has sent me to proclaim release to the captives and recovery of sight to the blind, to let the oppressed go free, to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favour.’ 

And so, as a new academic year begins: We thank you, Lord, for the provision of literacy and all educational opportunities in this country.  We ask you to bless children and adults around the world, who strive to learn in order to build a better future.  Help us, as members of the global community, to be part of their journey out of poverty.  Amen.