It seems that Fr Mark Cauchi's letter Priests' Primary Mission (January 13) held a message intended for one of his brothers in Christ. Was he indirectly referring to a parish priest who, although not always seen in a confessional, is always on the run to help all of his parishioners in their spiritual and material needs? Who goes out of his way to help one and all, and whose day never seems to end?

Fr Mark, the learned Augustinian, mentioned St John M. Vianney, also a parish priest, who lived in Ars in the 19th century. St John was not found in a confessional but taking care of destitute girls. The teaching of the Word of God is always the same, be it in the church or outside. In this time and age individual communication is the best way to send the message. Mixing with people, one can feel the pulse of the needy in spirit and soul. Altars and confessionals do not always make the message understood.

Parish priests should be young and full of energy, have communication skills and have the charisma to attract one and all to Christ. An article in The Times (January 14) reported on parishes fighting poverty. It really hit the nail where it should.