Bishop Walsh's Talk At Knock

Sir, - It's a bit rough and somewhat unworthy of M

Sir, - It's a bit rough and somewhat unworthy of M. O'Flanagan (July 1st) to accuse Bishop Walsh of merely "swimming with the tide". During the past 30 years there has been a welcome return to the expression of differences and diversity among Christians on the Church's interpretation of the teaching of Christ.

It might help to bear in mind the Christ himself said he was not delivering a neatly packaged canon of doctrine. What he did leave were the headlines of his teaching. But he also sent the Holy Spirit to assist our finite intellects develop a clearer understanding of his message. This evolution is an ongoing process and it is good to see Mr. O'Flanagan crossing intellectual swords with Dr Walsh.

Healthy debate is always welcome but the ad hominem tactic is inappropriate. - Yours, etc.,

Kevin Healy, Hampstead Avenue, Glasnevin, Dublin 9.