Sir, - I enjoyed Dr Martin Mansergh's letter (March 1st). He graciously points out the positive progress made in recent years between the RC and C of I churches, as well as respecting the "informed consciences" of Roman Catholics who are taught to accept a doctrine of transubstantiation.
May I add my voice to the many letters I have read recently and ask all the authoritative voices to come closer to a common understanding of what the Lord really means? The gospel accounts have a different emphasis on aspects of the Eucharist, but basically the Lord sees it as a way in which Christians can unite with Him and each other. Jesus saw himself as the "sacrificial lamb" for the sins of the whole world. He (a Jew) was gentle with Samaritan and Gentile. Surely this uncomplicated Messiah deserves a church, a people (whether Roman Catholic or Church of Ireland) to replace arrogance and bitterness with humility, love and forgiveness. Let us respect the Lamb of God who takes away the sins of the world, and have the unity which is His will even in diversity.
The Samaritan woman and the centurion discovered a grace from Jesus, the Son of God, and He treated them equally, because His love reaches to all.
Congratulations to Cardinal Connell, and to our President and to our Church of Ireland Archbishop Empey; but "Father, forgive all of us, clergy and laity" in case we do not exactly know what we are doing. May Your kingdom come and Your will be done. - Yours, etc.,
Very Rev Philip Knowles, Dean of Cashel, Cashel, Co Tipperary.