Sir, - I found Pastor Robert Dunlop's article (Rite and Reason, Oct 12th) reasonable and challenging. However, my fear is that his suggestions could allow Truth to fall between two stools.
The roles of church and state necessarily overlap since most people have dual citizenship, one in the church and one in the state. With the utmost goodwill on both sides there is still room for divergence of views on what the truth is. The "common good" is the aim of both church and state. But the church has a teaching role, given it by God, to preach the truth which "makes us free". It must preach this truth, having studied it and reflected upon it in the light of God's grace. It has no option here: "Go teach all nations." This should not be seen as interference, but as the Church doing its duty. If somebody chooses not to listen, that is his/her privilege and responsibility.
The State, on the other hand, is not obliged to preach the truth in the same manner. Rather, its role is to work for and maintain the common good of its members. In a sincere effort to do this it may sometimes clash with the church's interpretation of the truth. It is at this stage that real dialogue is needed.
Both church and state are working towards the same goal - a good society - and not in pursuit of any selfish interests. All dialogue between church and state should be for the purpose of greater understanding and clarity, but never for compromise on Truth. The truth must never be compromised to any kind of expediency. To fail to live up to the truth is understandable; deliberately to compromise the truth is unpardonable. - Yours, etc.
Fr Pat Griffin PP, Waterville. Co Kerry.