Madam, - Irene Redmond's letter of May 11th makes sad reading.
Here is an obviously sincere Catholic who rejects the necessity, and therefore the validity, of the sacrament of reconciliation, apparently in the name of what she perceives as ecumenism.
I know that many people who claim to be Catholic share Ms Redmond's views today. This reflects a surprising failure to appreciate the true nature of those "masterpieces of God" that we call sacraments and, more specifically, the meaning and purpose of confession.
For Ms Redmond and those who think like her, I would suggest, as a preliminary to any realistic discussion, a careful reading of the inspiring Article 4 of the Catechism of the Catholic Church. - Yours, etc.,
SEÁN MAC CÁRTHAIGH, Ballsbridge, Dublin 4.