Madam, – Having read some of the responses regarding the Bishop of Ferns’s request to his flock, it amazes me that anyone would consider his call.
The idea that “you’re either in the Catholic Church, warts and all, or you’re out” is nonsense. We as Catholics have to stand up for what is right. The Catholic Church and Jesus are much bigger than any bishop or priest. Jesus lived a simple life, trying to lead by example. He had no time for Pharisees. The idea of attending Mass every Sunday, but not respecting others and not treating them as they would like to be treated themselves would be totally against anything he preached.
Many mistakes have been made by those who represent the church through the ages; let this not be one of them. It is much easier to ask ordinary parishioners for money than it is to face a powerful Pope and a Vatican in all its glory. Jesus is not about gold, riches and tapestries. The church itself has not wronged but the people who represent it have. It is time for them to stand up and be counted. – Yours, etc,