Sir, In my capacity as pastor of the Lutheran Church I would like to reply to the letter from Ian Cox (June 7th).
The term "fundamentalism" is used in theology and social science to denote movements within various religions and societies of the 20th century only. To call Martin Luther, who lived in the 16th century, a "vociferous fundamentalist" shows little historical and theological understanding for this reason alone.
Moreover, I have to point out that Luther's theology by no means aims at drawing one sided political conclusions as the author of the above mentioned letter seems to do. The message of Luther is not directed against anybody but is nothing else than the Christian message of reconciliation between God and humans.
As the Pastor of the Lutheran Church in Ireland, whose membership spans both the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland, with services being performed in all major towns, I would like to state unequivocally: Our church lives in ecumenical fellowship with all churches on this island which work towards reconciliation and mutual understanding. We are categorically against any kind of fundamentalism and sectarianism - be they politically or religiously motivated. - Yours, etc.,
Lutherhaus, Adelaide Road, Dublin 2.