Arbhbishop and youthful idealism

Madam, - The Archbishop of Dublin, Dr Diarmuid Martin, said at the ordination of three priests in Dublin at the weekend: "We…

Madam, - The Archbishop of Dublin, Dr Diarmuid Martin, said at the ordination of three priests in Dublin at the weekend: "We see very few young people in our churches.

"We have to ask why so many good, idealistic and generous young people seem to find the motivation for their goodness apparently from sources other than the message of Jesus Christ."

Why does Dr Martin have to query the source of inspiration that leads young people to be "good, idealistic and generous"? Is it not enough in itself that they should have these qualities without - or is Dr Martin jealous that young people should have these virtues without having reported to one of his "eucharistic communities" to acquire them?

Could it be that Jesus Christ can inspire goodness outside of the Catholic Church? - Yours, etc,

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DECLAN KELLY,

Christchurch,

Dublin 8.