MR HARRY BOOTH, (Sept. 19), seems to suspect that those former Anglicans in the United States are being offered a cut-price conversion deal, and it may be that it is for fear of being accused of proselytizing that Rome has limited the offer to a smallish groups.
I cannot see. however, why it should not be welcomed by Anglicans. It is a generous gesture which promises that when unity comes they will not he just absorbed.
If the Anglican authorities would reciprocate by giving their blessing to those of their people who are ready to take advantage of the offer, it could mark an important stage on the road to unity.
Meanwhile the offer is made only to former Anglicans, specifically to a few hundreds at present in an ecclesiastical limbo. But there are thousands of former Anglicans who in the past made their submission as individuals, often with deep regret, because there was no other way. Mr Booth oversimplifies the case when he suggests that it is better to be a Catholic layman than an ordained Protestant. Putting communion with Rome before other considerations did not entail rejection of Anglicanism in every respect.
I for Line still long to he in communion with both Rome and Canterbury and hope it may soon be possible. If an Anglican identity within the Catholic fold is a step in the right direction, then 1 for one want to share in it.
1 am sure 1 ash not alone and would be very pleased to hear from others who share my desire.