Sir, - I read with interest the letter from Helena O'Leary (January 25th). At the outset, I wish to indicate my full support for any campaign that will lead to a more just and Christian reception of refugees and asylum-seekers in this country. The Pilgrim House initiative is very much to be admired, and is itself a good example of the Church at work.
It is true, as she suggests, that the Church's efforts to influence public opinion in this regard have not been as successful as might have been hoped. This does not mean that many of us have not made an honest effort. Whether we like it or not, there are other influences in society which conflict with the Gospel. These are to be found in government, in business, and undoubtedly among the Mass-going public too. If we have not had a reputation for racism in the past, it is not because we are better than anyone else. It may simply be because we haven't had to face the issue in Ireland. When we were poorer, I think we were more inclined to identify with poverty and with other oppressed people.
The teaching of the Church, like the teaching of Christ himself, is not always listened to. This applies to a wide range of issues. As Pope John Paul once remarked, every generation is a new continent to be won for Christ. The issue, in the final analysis, is one of return to the Gospel.
I question Ms O'Leary's suggestion that the crisis is now almost over, although the influx of refugees may have slowed down. An important challenge for the future, however, will be how we treat those who have survived the attentions of the Department of Justice. Will they be welcomed as human beings, equal in dignity, and allowed to participate fully in the life of this society? This will be the work of generations. I hope that all of us who are the followers of Christ can work constructively towards this end, without arguing among ourselves over who has done the most. - Yours, etc., Fr Kevin Doran,
St Lawrence Road, Clontarf, Dublin 3.