Madam, - The Taoiseach writes that we need to have clarity about the values that shape European society (Rite and Reason, May 3rd). But his sparse use of the "C" word - he mentions "Christian" only once and couples it with the word "problematic" - shows one of the main difficulties we now have in clarifying values.
Are faith-based values acceptable in an increasingly secular society? Is it permissible to propound Christianity as a basis for forming clear values? Or is that viewpoint excluded on the basis that it is "religious" and therefore a private, not a public, matter?
The debate over the prologue to the EU Constitution epitomises the issue. Do we include the "C" word or not? Is it fair to recognise one tradition in an era of tolerance and multiculturalism, even if history is clear that Christianity was the dominant tradition? If agreement is not reached, is it right that the secular option should be the default position?
It is ironic that Ireland carries responsibility for producing a resolution.
Wounded by an era in which Christianity's influence was exercised more by compulsion than persuasion, we are now struggling to work out what remaining influence Christianity should have here. And we are very uncomfortable with the debate. Try mentioning Jesus's values over a Saturday night pint and see what reaction you get! There was a time when Christianity carried excessive political clout. Those days are gone, thank God. But given its massive influence as well as its much-publicised failings, it seems reasonable to ask that Christianity be granted neither esteem nor exclusion.
In the marketplace of ideas in an expanded Europe, Christianity and its advocates should step up and argue the case alongside other world views.
The Christian case must be presented issue by issue. Christians should not expect a hearing on the basis that Europe has a Christian heritage. Nor should they accept being excluded on the basis that their viewpoint is a "religious" one and therefore a private matter. The secular/humanist world view is as much a matter of faith as the Christian. Neither should be excluded in advance. Nor should any other perspective.
If Ireland were to begin a debate on values and ideals in which Christian views on God, humanity and the purpose of life were seen as valid and worthy of consideration, we would do all of Europe a great service. Such an achievement, in the long run, would be of far greater value than any clause or phrase about God in a European Constitution. - Yours, etc.,
SEÁN MULLAN, Evangelical Alliance Ireland, Blanchardstown, Dublin 15.