Abuse of faith

IT was reassuring to read Joyce McMillan's excellent article "Anything for a quiet life" (Opinion, 27 March). It highlighted the most concerning aspect of the recent revelations of child abuse by members of the Catholic Church, namely the prolonged collusion and cover-up by the Church hierarchy.

Until all religions divest themselves of self-serving hierarchies, secret practices and political aspirations, they can never warrant the trust traditionally placed in them by ordinary people.

Indeed, it would be far better for the future of the human race if we all focused more on core beliefs and values unconnected with religion, but linked to individual responsibility.

BOB RUTHERFORD

Ardmore

Port Wemyss, Isle of Islay