The Dominican Republic flag has a large central white cross and, right in the middle, the Coat of Arms is crowned with a blue ribbon that reads: 'God, Homeland and Freedom'.

Some believers say that “one of the greatest assets in life is forgiveness”, while others state that “the church is not as enthusiastic as the NGOs” about abolition.

China passed a reform of Hong Kong's election law to evaluate the “patriotism” of the candidates. “Many people do not agree with the government”, says a Christian in the city.

“The European Union is a failure”, she said. Le Pen’s manifesto of 144 “commitments” pledges to “give France its freedom back”.

There is a place for patriotism and healthy national pride. But surely we should get nervous when British exceptionalism and nationalistic fervour get wrapped up in religious language.

Sir Fred Catherwood: “Patriotism gives to Caesar what is Caesar’s and to God what is God’s. But in the end nationalism wants total allegiance, because it is more than politics. It is religion.”