Sir, - The advice offered by Father Martin Hughes, school chaplain at St Mac Dara's Community College, Templeogue to the Catholic Community present for the graduation Mass should be warmly commended.
I too have been greatly concerned by the manner in which many approach Holy Communion, not only at graduation Masses but at class Masses held annually in many schools. I raised this matter at our staff meeting as recently as February. I was concerned at students receiving the Eucharist who are not regularly attending Sunday Mass. The Catechism of the Catholic Church refers to "the obligation to participate at Mass on days of obligation unless excused for a serious reason (illness, the care of infants) or dispensed by their own pastor. Those who deliberately fail in this obligation commit a grave sin".
Father Hughes is simply fulfilling his role as pastor to the pupils, parents and guardians of his flock.
When on pilgrimage to Parry Le-Monial, France last summer I witnessed many members of the congregation approaching the celebrant for a blessing when not receiving Communion.
In recent months St. Thomas More has been elevated to the role of patron saint for politicians - he too was made answerable to secular authority for following his conscience. - Yours, etc.,
Frank Burke, Christian Brothers Secondary School, Synge Street, Dublin 8.