Sir, - Whilst it is acknowledged that there has been valuable progress made by theologians, the practical path of ecumenism and unity will continue to be brought about by the "people of the church" who are not blinded and compromised by legal niceties and the trappings of power.
In this context, it is highly regrettable that the Church of Rome, a Church of Christian denomination, should presume to dictate to any baptised Christian that it is not permissible for him/ her to receive the Eucharist in the Church of Ireland. It is hurtful to imply not only that the Church of Ireland may not also be Christian, but that its celebration of the most central of Christ's sacraments may be a sham!
The Church of Ireland's approach to this sacrament is contained in a prayer of humility beforehand which contains the words: "We do not presume to come to this your table, merciful Lord, trusting in our own righteousness, but in your manifold and great mercies." So it is to the Lord's table that we come, not to one owned by any denomination, and it is offensive that any group or person should assume to interfere with anyone answering Christ's call to come to him as their conscience leads them, especially in the Eucharist, the essence of which is his real presence.
It is in and through Christ that we all find our healing and reconciliation, and it is greatly encouraging that this reality and truth are being grasped and exercised ever more widely by Christians of all traditions. God speaks to us so often outside the parameters that we constantly set for ourselves, and so we need to heed the essence of what is written in Revelation: "He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit is saying to the Churches". In Christ we have no need to fear any loss of security but find quite the reverse, a new confidence and a new freedom! - Yours, etc., Archdeacon
(United Diocese of Tuam, Killala and Achonry), The Rectory, Church Hill, Clifden, Co Galway.