Sir, - While there can be no doubt that the Catholic Church is in crisis, the church as described by Rosemary Doorly (February 11th) is not the church to which I belong. Since when has a major religion been a democracy? My understanding would be far closer to a set of creeds to which its adherents are faithful.
Far too many people like your correspondent are using the media to promote their own causes, such as feminism, and are using the failings of the church to justify their own laxity and indifference to attendance. The history of the church is riddled with scandals and failings (and which institution is not?), but these have mostly been overcome by the dedication and prayers of those who really cared and remained within its fold.
I am not convinced that the letter of Rosemary Doorly was written with the best interests of the church, since what she wrote contained nothing new, nothing helpful, nothing positive. It is all too easy to sit on the sidelines and complain. I would suggest to her that she might do better to get involved with her local church, learn more about her Catholic faith, get rid of the chips off her shoulder and help to bring about the very many changes that are necessary to making the church more authentic, more vibrant and more tolerant.
Alternatively she might do as others who have left the fold, like Martin Luther and Henry V111, have done and follow another star. The Catholic Church may end up having fewer members, but those who remain will be more dedicated, honest and vibrant. - Yours, etc.,
Fr DECLAN BRENNAN
Rivermount Parish,
St Helena's Drive,
Rivermount,
Dublin 11.