Sir, - Daphne D. C. Pochin Mould (February 23rd) dismisses as "ecclesiastical red tape" the reason advanced why Catholics cannot receive Communion at a eucharistic celebration of the Church of Ireland.
The reason for it is given by Vatican II in its Decree on Ecumenism (no. 22) and it applies to all Catholics (cf. Cathechism of the Catholic Church, cf. par. 1400). The Church's belief in the Eucharist is central to its teaching, just as the Mass has been central to its struggle in Ireland during penal times. This cannot be dismissed today as "ecclesiastical red tape". - Yours, etc.,
Michael Manning, Millstreet, Co Cork.