Reply to Rev Ivan Foster: '˜He is not quoting the authoritative articles'

Mr Ivan Foster (Aug 11) informs us that he has quoted from a version of the Articles of Religion as on the Church Society website.

It is clearly stated there, that this version “is provided solely for the purpose of making the Articles more easily understood. The standing or authority of the Articles as set out in the Book of Common Prayer is in no way to be interpreted as diminished or undermined.”

However, by not quoting the authoritative Articles, Mr Foster is indeed undermining them. Knowing what is actually written is important. It would have been helpful if he had given his source when originally writing.

I must admit that I do not recognise the message of the God of love, sitting on a throne of grace, (cf Hebrews 4:16) in much of what Mr Foster writes. God’s love and grace are there for all who wish to receive it. In my Christian life and witness, I recognise and embrace the diversity that is found in the world today: the diversity that has indeed always been there.

Guided by the Holy Spirit, we recognise the importance of support and loving each other, where all are welcomed and affirmed, whilst challenging ourselves to embrace the call of Jesus Christ found in the Gospels. It would be fantastic if more people would follow the Master’s call.

And thinking of the words of Christ, it might be useful for everyone (including Mr Foster) to remember the words found in Matthew 7:5 “cast out first the beam in thy own eye, and then shalt thou see to cast out the mote out of they brother’s eye.”

John McFarland Campbell, Dublin 1