I wholeheartedly agree with Tony C. Cutajar (Let The Congregation Speak, March 30) that since the Capuchin fathers in the parish at San Ġwann have been reshuffled, the liturgy has turned more participative and yes, the congregation has increased in number. I normally attend the 11.30 a.m. Mass, and there would be plenty of families and youths present, even standing at the back. This was a very much needed move by their authorities, since I found the two previous parish priests arrogant and practically unapproachable. The then parish priest once shouted at my 10-year-old niece at the main door because she was wearing a very decent bolero. One of my eldest nephews still recalls the good memories that he had when a young Capuchin was in charge of the Youth Centre. Pity that the then parish priests decided to call it a day on such a life-giving project.

However, I can assure Mr Cutajar that my observations (On Bad Sermons And Good Homilies, March 26) are not generalisations. It does not work in today's age and culture to be talked to in a patronising way. Besides, I find that most of the homilies lack any deep theological or spiritual reflection and do not go beyond the obvious ranting of the usual clichés. When I come to liturgy, what I expect is something decent, life-giving, inspiring, with depth, illustrated by today's life examples or at least thoroughly explained from a Biblical perspective. Some fathers unfortunately give the impression that they either do not read (which is not an excuse) or else they do not think within today's frame of mind.

Alas, I am sure the reverend clergy will not shy off from positive criticism, even though it can sound a bit harsh.