Madam, - Joe Humphreys says he never set out to be a "lapsed Catholic", but that he is simply unable to accept that Jesus Christ is literally the Son of God ("Confessions of a Lost Soul", Weekend Review, September 24th). He adds: "It strikes me that Christianity has much to teach me even though I'm unable to accept the 'spiritual' elements of the faith." He also believes that other major faiths have "something to offer" regarding moral and spiritual guidance.
Joe Humphreys is not alone. More and more people are finding it difficult to assent to the narrowness of some of our Christian doctrines, and yet do not want to cast themselves off from the Church - or be cast off.
A small number of us who are in this situation have been meeting, from all over Ireland, over the past few months to try to find a way forward. We are practising members, including clergy, of most of the mainstream churches, as well as agnostics and people on the margins of churches, and those who are disappointed with their church but still find it a source of spiritual nourishment. Our doctrinal views range from those who are uncertain about the word "God" to those who have no problem with the "supernatural elements of the faith" but are distressed by the lack of accountability of their hierarchies. For most of us, Christian tradition is important, especially that which is rooted in Jesus of Nazareth.
What we all have in common is a desire for openness and inclusivity, for the acceptance of people of varied beliefs, lifestyles and practices. We are not seeking to become a new church, but we do want our churches to recognise this exploratory way of living and believing as an authentic Christian position.
We would be glad to hear from any others who can relate to this. - Yours, etc,
HILARY WAKEMAN, Open Christianity Network, PO Box 44, Downpatrick BT30 0AB' Co Down; and Bloomville, Geashill, Co Offaly.