Sir, – Two years have passed since the call for a Mass boycott to highlight the position of women in the Catholic Church. In this regard there is no change: there is still a shortage of men for the priesthood and a denial that women can fulfil the role of ministry.
However, some things have changed, certainly in this diocese: there are fewer Masses, and fewer priests. The laity can help, but a sacramental church needs priests. When there are talented and holy women anxious to minister, why is the church so obstinate? In the 21st century women have held the most important offices, nationally and internationally: why is the church so afraid of the female? In the words of Cardinal Martini, is it 200 years out of date? Readers who care for the church and would like to see women fulfilling their role as priests can make their voices heard and wear a green ribbon on September 30th. – Yours, etc,