Sir, - I am writing in response to the article by your Religious Affairs Correspondent (June 1st), regarding the opening of the multi-denominational chapel in Tallaght hospital, to clarify one particular issue. The article refers to the fact that a minister of the "Baptist Church" took part in the service. In the caption under the accompanying photograph, Pastor Robert Dunlop is described as representing the "Baptist Church".
It is inaccurate to speak of the "Baptist Church". There is no such thing. There are Baptist churches in Ireland but there is no all-embracing body known as the "Baptist Church". One hundred and nine of these local Baptist churches in Ireland, north and south, have agreed to work together in various ways in an association known as the Baptist Union of Ireland. Pastor Dunlop did not represent this association. None of its Boards or committee approved his participation in the service. Pastor Dunlop acted only in a personal capacity as a member of the hospital chapel committee. Thank you for the opportunity to clarify this situation. -Yours, etc., W. Colville,
Secretary,
Baptist Union of Ireland.
Lisburn Road,
Belfast BT9.