I admit that I never read Fr Joe Borg’s contributions as I feel he is too prejudiced, but his opinion piece last Sunday was given great prominence. His criticism of the Church administration can only be taken with a pinch of salt. I am sure he knows which office at the Holy See deals with these problems. Has he written in to complain?

Fr Borg put a stress on the Archbishop. I pity Mgr Paul Cremona, who seems to be in the wrong position at the worst of times. The problem is: would it be better for Mgr Cremona to resign or to seek help and assert his position?

Fr Borg has written against local feasts when the problem is not feasts per se but the inter-parochial and intra-parochial pique. Instead of encouraging unity, certain quarters instil hatred.

He also mentioned his involvement in many puritanical groups or movements which, in their zeal, are causing much confusion, changing well-known and established prayers and giving the impression that only their members stand a chance of going to heaven.

He mentions charity contributions. First of all, the many charities should unite in one (or a few) strong body. Secondly, every person must have the right to support his preferred charity. There are ample charity campaigns and therefore there is no need to impose.

Finally, too many privileged parishes and groups are in control. Jesus was against privileges. Processional routes, days for the Good Friday procession, tassels and buckles, choosing the bible readings, should all be done away with.

Certain spite must be stifled. Parishes that still have a grudge against others due to loss of earnings when a new community gained its independence must wake up to modern reality.

One last comment. There is nothing wrong with the Mass format though the homily often leaves much to be desired. In their earnestness to include many topics, preachers confuse the congregation. It is better to concentrate on just one topic and limit the duration to not more than five minutes.

The excuse that the Sunday homily is the only opportunity to pass the message of Christ has been twisted out of context. It is better to stress one aspect that the congregation will understand and remember than be bombarded to the extent that listeners become tired and forget all that would have been said.