Sir, - Archbishop Eames says that "no one should feel excluded" (from Holy Communion in the Church of Ireland) and "it is tragic that we have to view this service as a source of division between Churches". Of course it is. Isn't that why we have different churches (a proliferation of them)? The division among Christians is a tragedy but the cause of ecumenism is not helped by asking that these real divisions be ignored in the cause of so-called unity. It has to be repeated constantly that unless ecumenism is based on truth it is a sham.
I note that Cardinal Connell's remarks on his criticism by a bishop from another church on RTE elicited no comment in the media and still does not. An interesting question: if a Catholic bishop made a like criticism of the appointment of a Protestant bishop, would it have been ignored?
In your Editorial of February 20th you claim that Cardinal Connell's remarks caused hurt to other Christians - just by reiterating Catholic teaching? The same hurt, of course, stems from the Reformation - also Cardinal Connell's fault? I fail to see how he "effectively disparaged fellow Christians". As one who attended a Protestant service where all present were invited to receive Holy Communion, I found this a source of embarrassment when I felt I could not partake. Therefore, I agree with Cardinal Connell that it is not respecting the teaching of my church when I am asked to partake at a Communion service in a Protestant church.
Your Editorial epitomises the politically correct "feel good" factor, which is bad enough in secular society but much more damaging in the spiritual realm. The divisions in Christianity are tragic. I find words and false deeds will not alter that - only actions and words based on truth and with respect for the beliefs not shared by others. - Yours, etc.,
Mrs Mary Stewart, Ardeskin, Donegal Town.