Fair access
SIR — Before we go calling for a law that would potentially criminalise every parent in the country, we much more urgently need laws protecting our children from the torrent of moral pollution that is surging unchecked through our society.
Coarseness and vulgarity are the order of the day, in fact they seem to be obligatory. It is practically impossible for parents to protect their children from the corrupting influence of this degraded material whether it is in the home, in the street or at school.
But instead of receiving the support they ought to expect, as they battle to preserve their children’s innocence, parents are faced with the prospect of being branded as criminals, while those who are the real threat to the health and welfare of our children are allowed to carry on their work unmolested.
Yours faithfully, BERNARD O’CONNOR aqzo38@dsl.pipex.com From Mr Joseph G Bracewell SIR — Congratulations upon your recent reporting of the proposed relaxing of the strictures appertaining to celebration of Mass in the Tridentine Rite (Report, June 18).
As one who holds an attachment to the liturgy of the former Roman Rite, I rejoice in this news. However further perusal of the article reveals a disparity of opinion regarding the current availability of provision in England and Wales.
Bishop Mark Jabalé of Menevia informs us that there is “adequate, and in many cases generous provision”. John Medlin of the Latin Mass Society (LMS) states that “some bishops are generous, other bishops are stingy”. Close examination of the current listings of the LMS, which I believe is the primary facilitator of the Tridentine Mass celebrated by priests in full communion with Rome, appears to give credence to Mr Medlin’s viewpoint.
I strongly suspect that the faithful of Middlesbrough will concur with Mr Medlin when one takes into account that they are denied the privilege of fulfilling their Sunday obligation by assisting at an old rite Mass. While their southern counterparts in Westminster appear to be slightly better off by having the option to assist at two Masses each Sunday. However, given the number of parishes in the diocese this can still hardly be called generous.
In conclusion, it would appear to be something of a postcode lottery and I am sure that those of your readers who are familiar with government jargon would agree that “fair access to services” has taken on a whole new meaning.
Yours faithfully, JOSEPH BRACEWELL Nelson, Lancs
Errant politicians
From Mr Michael J Cowie SIR — I refer to Mrs Dominic Stemp’s letter (July 2). With respect, describing as “a little hypocritical” and as “a farce”