SIR – Fr Neil Evans (Letter, March 4) rightly highlights the momentous importance of the EU Referendum, but then rather spoils it by making a somewhat apocalyptic case for Brexit. The referendum will probably be decided on the economic arguments, which should help the Remain side. But it is far more than a purely British matter, because for one of the “big three” member states to leave would have huge geopolitical implications, almost certainly unfavourable. If it encouraged separatist movements in other countries, leading to a possible eventual breakup of the whole EU, it would enormously destabilise the prospects for peace in Europe and the wider world. President Putin and the like must be licking their lips at such a prospect.
It is so much better to remain a leading member and play a constructive role in future decisions, instead of spending much of our time sniping on the sidelines.
Yours faithfully,
Alan Pavelin
By email
SIR – Your leading article (February 26) reporting that exorcisms are more effective when Latin is used, concluding that the Devil hates the language, needs defending. Many, like Fr Danford in his mocking letter (March 11), seem to believe that Latin Mass-goers think the language to be, in itself, somehow more venerable than the vernacular.
No, a language is not separate from the literature of its speakers, and so from the highest achievements of its culture. For example, on reciting the Creed in Latin at Mass we are participating yet more humbly and fully in those words that were drawn up after the great persecution in 325 AD by the Fathers under the authority of the Pope. Those words are adversarial: their very syntax is built from a spiritual, intellectual contest with the evil of heresy which threatened to destroy the Church (the word “Satan” means “adversary”).
Indeed, Latin, its study in the Renaissance being a kind of puberty rite, retained this “masculine” character into the 16th century and beyond as the language that created an arena for intellectual disputation. Latin, whether in spirit or in fact, is much needed in the new evangelisation today, where the Church is increasingly threatened. Participation in the Latin liturgy, its very separation from everyday language, itself becomes a “masculine” act in this sense.
Emasculated liturgy easily leads to an emasculated faith, a narcissistic one, believing the present age to be superior in every way. The Devil has always loved such discarnate spirits.
Yours faithfully,
Stephen Wood
Princes Risborough,
Buckinghamshire
SIR – The cover story by Jon Anderson, “The new push to end priestly celibacy” (February 26), highlighted a significant concern in the Western Church. It is good to see major articles in the Catholic press on what is becoming an increasingly important issue.
To regard celibacy as a necessary requirement for a vocation to priestly ministry is clearly incorrect. The historical development that gave rise to the Lateran Council declaration in 1139 of mandatory celibacy was a disciplinary action, taken at a time when a very negative view of human sexuality still prevailed – one which is no longer acceptable and which Vatican II decisively rejected. No such restriction existed before that date, even though some accepted celibacy as a personal choice.
This discipline can be changed if it is deemed appropriate to do so. The continuing fall in the number of priests ministering in parishes is a crisis that we can no longer ignore. The age profile is increasing, as is the burden that the remaining priests must bear. On a point of accuracy: it is not true that most other denominations are as short of vocations as we are – the Church of England, for example, ordains nearly 10 times as many full-time, male priests to serve approximately the name number of worshipping members.
To see a threat in those asking these questions is unfair, for we only seek the good of the Church in support of the mission that is given her. The way forward lies in open, honest discussion and your article is a valuable contribution. But further, that discussion should involve our bishops, and both priests and laity. As a matter of some urgency a national commission should be established to explore the whole issue. Courageous conversations are called for before it is too late.
Yours faithfully,
Chris McDonnell
Mike Kerrigan
Secretary and chairman of the Movement for Married Clergy,
By email
SIR – Over the years one experiences in celibacy that the emotional force of love comes only from relating more and more to God through good times and bad. It becomes increasingly clear how easily we can be deceived into thinking that we need sexual activity for love.
In the light of this, debates about LGBT become more and more irrelevant. It becomes increasingly apparent, too, that much poor health is promoted by obsessive preoccupation with our human relationships while neglecting God, who transforms all our relationships the more we are related to Him.
Your readiness to promote debate on difficult issues is much appreciated. I especially appreciate your throwing open the question of celibacy for the clergy. While I am second to nobody in appreciating the services of married Catholic clergy, I believe that it is vital for the Church to promote celibacy as the normal requirement for priests, because this spiritual dedication opens up unique vistas and powerful, undeviating clear insights.
Yours faithfully,
Fr Bryan Storey
St Paul the Apostle,
Tintagel, Cornwall
SIR – As Easter approaches, Fr Rolheiser’s thought-provoking article, “Mourning our barrenness” (March 4), is a timely reminder of The Idea of a University by Blessed John Henry Newman, where he states: “One alone has with His last breath said ‘Consummatum est’ (‘It is accomplished’; John 19:30).
But all who set about their duties in faith and hope and love, with a resolute heart and devoted will, are able, though weak they may be, to do what, though incomplete, is imperishable.” These reassuring words may also be seen in the porch of Newman’s University Church, on St Stephen’s Green, Dublin.
Yours faithfully,
Benjamin Hazard
By email
This page is available to subscribers. Click here to sign in or get access.
Areas of Catholic Herald business are still recovering post-pandemic.
However, we are reaching out to the Catholic community and readership, that has been so loyal to the Catholic Herald. Please join us on our 135 year mission by supporting us.
We are raising £250,000 to safeguard the Herald as a world-leading voice in Catholic journalism and teaching.
We have been a bold and influential voice in the church since 1888, standing up for traditional Catholic culture and values. Please consider donating.