Archbishop Cushley appeared on BBC Radio Scotland's Thought for the Day this morning to discuss two Catholics from bygone Edinburgh whose legacy of faith continues to inspire.

Here is the transcript:

"Tomorrow sees the release of Edinburgh’s First Hibernian.

It’s a new biography by Mike Hennessy, telling the story of Canon Edward Joseph Hannan—a man of deep faith and profound social commitment.

In the late 19th century, Father Hannan arrived at St Patrick’s and found himself at the centre of one of the poorest areas of the city.

The Cowgate was home to many Irish Catholic immigrants, families living in overcrowded tenements, facing prejudice, poverty, and instability.

Rather than turning inward, Hannan looked outward—to the needs of his people.

‘Edinburgh’s First Hibernian’ by Mike Hennessy is published by Thirsty Books on Wed 6 August. #Hibs pic.twitter.com/RUYBKBXesh

— Archdiocese of St Andrews & Edinburgh (@archedinburgh) July 17, 2025

His legacy includes not only the spiritual care he gave to his parishioners, but a bold step into the world of sport: helping found Hibernian Football Club in 1875. He saw the club not as a diversion, but as a way to uplift a struggling community, foster pride, and promote unity and dignity at a time when they were in short supply.

St Patrick’s is also linked to another extraordinary person.

It is the spiritual home of the Venerable Margaret Sinclair, a working-class woman of deep humility and prayer who is now on the path to sainthood.

This year we mark the centenary of her death.

Join us at St Patrick's in The Cowgate, Edinburgh, on Sunday 21 September 2025. pic.twitter.com/bRbJHBBqan

— Archdiocese of St Andrews & Edinburgh (@archedinburgh) July 30, 2025

Like Hannan, she found her strength in faith, service, and simplicity—qualities that still resonate today. This year we mark 100 years since her death.

Her life has even been celebrated with a play on the Fringe! Amid the buzz and bustle of Edinburgh’s festival season, many will seek out moments of stillness, perhaps a place to step back, breathe, and reflect.

St Patrick’s Church is open throughout the day and offers not only a welcome calm from the city’s throng, but a connection to these two remarkable people of faith and community.

In the rush of August, Canon Hannan’s example reminds us that true leadership often begins with listening, serving, and walking alongside those who are struggling.

And sometimes, in the quiet of a church or the story of a life well lived, we find exactly what we didn’t know we needed."

Edinburgh's First Hibernian by Mike Hennessy is released on 6 August by Thirsty Books. The Venerable Margaret Sinclair Pilgrimage takes place at St Patrick's Church, The Cowgate, on Sunday 21 September. Details here.