ANTONY COLEMAN,
Sir, - It is regrettable that that it was found appropriate to publish a letter attacking Dr Walton Empey (August 1st) on the day after his retirement.
During his archiepiscopal ministry his Grace vigorously encouraged mutual respect and understanding between members of the Church of Ireland and members of the Church of Rome. This deserves high commendation, not impertinent criticism. One must also express stupefaction that a minor cleric should have the temerity to impugn so intemperately the integrity of a sacerdos magnus as highly respected as Dr Empey. - Yours, etc.,
ANTONY COLEMAN,
Bloomfield Avenue,
Donnybrook,
Dublin 4.
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Sir, - Many Roman Catholics cringed at the sight of David O'Hanlon's letter concerning Bishop Walton Empey. I wish Dr Empey a great retirement with his family and hope he will continue to contribute so generously to Irish life. It was always a pleasure to hear him speak with the wisdom of one who had experienced life and the humour of one who was enjoying it. - Yours, etc.,
WILLIAM J. NOONAN,
Monaleen Heights,
Castletroy,
Limerick.
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Sir, - On the basis of Father David O'Hanlon's letter of August 1st, could it be said that the Catholic Church in Ireland is alive and kicking? - Yours, etc.,
OLIVER McGRANE,
Marley Avenue,
Rathfarnham,
Dublin 16