Opinion

Only truth encourages forgiveness

SINCE statistics about Mass attendance were recently published there has been no apparent dutiful response from the Catholic Church, even after several weeks, as to why such a situation has developed over the years. It would be interesting to hear what account can be presented on its own behalf.

Most of the non-attending laity, who in conscience are entitled to call themselves good Catholics, offer their main reason as losing respect for their bishops and clergy due to sex scandal cover-up and on-going cowardly 'cover-up of cover-up'.

This undoubtedly is still the main reason for the decline on their part.

Where Down & Connor is concerned, a great opportunity has been missed by not publishing the long withheld 'Ian Elliott Report' which obviously would have established some confidence in the promised investigation of alleged abuse. Withholding the facts has made people even more distrustful and suspicious, with the result that the problem will continue, especially among the young who can look to their disillusioned elders for explanation.

Should the Church hope to attract numbers once more, let it take courage by 'confessing' to its long deceived people and perform 'penance' by way of swallowing its pride and arrogance. Only truth encourages trust, forgiveness and renewal.

PAUL HANNA

Belfast BT7