Madam, - What many commentators call "à la carte" Catholicism might more aptly be called "fast food". "À la carte" implies that one selects from a wide range of choices according to one's appetite. But "fast food" would be a more accurate metaphor of people's general beliefs: convenient, something to get by on, it fills a gap but is not meant for real sustenance and is chosen with little discernment.
Judging by the increased incidence of anti-social behaviour, suicide and divorce, I suggest that as a society we are not getting much genuine spiritual nourishment. - Yours, etc,
MARK DALY, Castlefield Woods, Dublin 15.