Misuse of Roman Catholic teachings

Published on Saturday 24 May 2008 20:18

WITH specific reference to Dani Garavelli's article 'Time for change' (Comment, May 11), but including other columns written by her and referring to the Roman Catholic church's teachings:

Firstly, I do not possess the imagination to either 'accuse' her of either carrying 'Catholic baggage', whatever that may mean, or of 'assuming' she is a pro-lifer. If I come across it in any of her opinions as espoused in relation to the Roman Catholic church's teachings, I'll let her know.

Does she just pick and choose the bits she likes, or feels more comfortable with, or, for whatever reason, suit her.

What I thoroughly object to is her consistently referring to, and therefore using, her Roman Catholic upbringing as both a 'badge' and platform for her opinions.

She should stop using this disingenuously and be honest with herself. The Church's teachings on these and several other matters which she has at times opposed with vitriol, as she has every right to do, are long established and well founded in the Church's interpretation of the Gospels. Other churches teachings/beliefs differ, but does anyone have any idea what they are? Will Ms Garavelli please desist from waving her Roman Catholic credentials when professing her opinion on such matters.

She refers to "the nature of the abortion debate" in her last paragraph, well be very brave and attempt to change the nature of that debate instead of "spitting in the wind".

Lorraine Gallacher, Kirkintilloch