CATHOLICS ON THE LAND

Sia,-As a farm worker, I would like to give my answer-a definite No-to " M. B.'s " question (October 5): " Are not the normal channels for a career on the land open to Catholics 7"
I have had ten years' experience of farm work, and, as well as advertising in a Catholic paper, I examined dozens of "situations vacant ' over a period of twelve months before finding one where I could go to Mass on Sundays.
I am a great believer in studyin modern scientific methods, hut am fully convinced that the only reliable basis for training is in the hard school of practical experience. After my sesirch, however I pity the " learner " who is looking fur a job where he can practice his religion regularly.
Perhaps if Catholic farmers, and I am not only referring to individuals, used the Catholic press as well as the farming journals the position would be improved.
FIVE A.M.
Sue-May I ask your correspondent " MB.," who thinks Catholics can go Ott the land just like that, Where we are to hear, Mass 7 A glance through the Catholic Directory will tell him that in many, many country places journeys of anything from five to fifteen miles would be necessary. And what about Catholic schools for our children ? Catholic communities are essential on the land. If, as " M.B." says, it is a disgrace to us Catholics that we hairen't any influence on agriculture, isn't this an argument for the while Catholic community of this country getting togethel to do something about it ? If " M. B." had read all the letters on this subject which have appeared in THE CATHOLIC HERALD he would realise why this matter is SO important. The history of Catholicism in England proves that Catholicism has only been strong in the land when and in those places where there have been Catholic landowners to organise the community and provide Mass centres.
JOHN BATE.
61, Evington Road, Leicester.
[It would be of some interest if our correspondent or, someone else could show that Catholics are willing to work on the land in districts within reach of Catholic churches.-EorroR, C. H.1