Sir, - Following the litany of Protestant invective on June 12th and 13th, by rights I should have been reeling. Instead, I took a step back and gathered my thoughts, and have made the following observations.
Both Frank Richter and F. H. Walker chose the method of argument I might have expected to conceal their tradition behind the cover of ecumenism. This is nothing new in Protestantism. The "ecumenical fellowship" has long been a cover for those unwilling to commit themselves solely to the teachings of Christ, and a breeding ground for apostasy.
We have heard the terms "reconciliation" and "mutual understanding" between churches. So let me be clear on this. The only reconciliation and understanding necessary is between each of us as individuals and Christ. That is the core of our Protestant values and the reality of the Reformation.
Robert Greacen also claimed my stance seemed to "have more to do with politics than with a truly Protestant interpretation of Christ's teaching". Perhaps Mr Greacen is unaware that the Bible contains a chronology of political messages imbued with Christ's teachings on building a fair and just society. To separate religion from politics is to wash your hands of confronting wickedness.
In hindsight, perhaps all who have debated this issue, including myself, would be better advised to express our outrage over the murders in Lurgan than bicker among ourselves. - Yours, etc.,
Killiney,
Co Dublin.