Sir, - While Rev David O'Hanlon was systematically and effectively refuting John Wijngaard's attempts to establish female ordination in the early church (November 13th), the Mass readings for this date included two very valuable supports for Fr O'Hanlon.
The first reading from the letter of St Paul to Titus 1-9 gave a clear direction for leadership in the early church: "He must have a firm grasp of the unchanging message of the tradition, so that he can be counted on for both expounding the sound doctrine and refuting those who argue against it."
In the Gospel according to St Luke 17-1, "Obstacles are sure to come, but alas for the one who provides them, better for him to be thrown into the sea, etc."
Fr David O'Hanlon has been to the forefront in expounding the sound doctrine, and refuting those who argue against it. The Catholic Church owes him its appreciation for his courage in defending Christian truths and values, which have come under attack in so many ways from those who want them changed to suit secular interests.
Society changes all the time, but God does not change, nor does the truth. Truth cannot be watered down, diminished or be made subject to negotiation.
Well done, Fr O'Hanlon. - Yours, etc.,
Frank Flanagan, Blackhorse Avenue, Dublin 7.