Letter: Doing good

Kathleen S Manning (Letters, 3 June) makes the point in response to my recent letter that, despite the spread of Christianity in Africa, it does not follow there is "more compassion and less cruelty". Certainly, one only has to think of the ethnic cleansing and tribal slaughter in places such as Rwanda and the Sudan to be aware of the appalling brutality that still exists. There is also the draconian application of Sharia law in some parts of Africa.

While one may rightly deplore such horrific cruelty, as a matter of balance it should be acknowledged that the Christian churches have been in the vanguard of compassionate service in the foundation of hospitals, schools, engineering, agriculture, sanitation and the supply of clean water in many countries.

I also note that the president of Malawi has rescinded the 14-year jail sentence imposed on a gay couple. Perhaps it is worth remembering that in the not too distant past, homosexual behaviour in this country was considered a criminal offence and famously landed Oscar Wilde in prison for two years.

(REV) J HARRISON HUDSON

Hamilton Avenue

Tayport, Fife