The Sixth Commandment: This sensitive BBC drama holds vital lessons for today’s Church

The tragic stories of Peter Farquhar and Ann Moore-Martin have their roots in the loneliness that can often come from living alone. It is both a warning and a challenge to the Christian community, says Tony Wilson

Watching The Sixth Commandment, the four part BBC mini-series that tells the story of the murder of Peter Farquhar, has been a heart-rending experience. Sensitively written, exquisitely directed and brilliantly brought to life by great acting, it should give us all pause for thought.

At the celebration of his retirement from teaching, we learn that Peter Farquhar (played by Timothy Spall) inspired generations with his teaching of English and the depth of his Christian faith. As a lay-preacher in the Church of England, his faith was evidently central to his life and his decision to be celibate, while not hiding his homosexual orientation, created a point of tension.