Madam, - As one of Catholic and Anglican parentage, raised in the former tradition, I welcome the Papal Encyclical Ecclesia de Euchanistia as a sign of the Pope's paternal solicitude for the Church and her separated brethren, and his legitimate concern for the path to Christianity, which is hindered by abuses.
Deep differences in doctrine between Christians will not vanish into thin air by Catholics receiving Communion at other services. Shortcuts to full communion may well seem attractive, but roads that disregard the many obstacles that have to be faced with courage and truth must be avoided, and will lead to disaster. It is also distasteful to openly disobey the head of the Church and justify this by masquerading as an ecumenical pioneer.
If everybody did the same, we would be left with a pick 'n' mix religion, and faith would be treated like a lump of clay to be altered and fashioned as we all like or choose. No, only when dark clouds dissipate can we truly begin our ecumenical journey, enlightened by spiritual guidance given by our pastors. - Yours, etc.,
SEÁN ALEXANDER SMITH, Wainsfort Manor, Terenure, Dublin 6.
Madam, - A few years ago I was speaking to one of our southern dignitaries and I said to him that it must be difficult in his neck of the country with mixed marriages. He told me the whole situation had changed over the past 15 years and that RCs were coming into our (Church of Ireland) churches to receive Holy Communion. He told me he had mentioned this to a PP friend whose response was: "It will do them a power of good!". How times have changed!
Three weeks ago I was in hospital for an operation. On my third day, a robed priest came to the ward carrying a chalice and went to each bed. When he came to mine he asked if I wanted to receive Communion. I thought I would be smart and said, "Yes, but you wouldn't give it to a good Protestant clergymen!" His response amazed and made me feel very humble. He said, "If you wish to receive, you may." I was very thrilled to receive it.
Two days later he was back and I decided to fully identify myself in case there was any misunderstanding. There wasn't and he offered me Communion again, which I duly received. My, how times have changed! - Yours, etc.,
Rev Canon JAMES PIKE, Omagh, Co Tyrone.