Last Updated:Friday - 09/24/2010

WCR Letters to the Editor

Better uses for imagination

I was disappointed to read the coverage of Father Greeley (WCR, Jan. 20). I have read several of his books as well as his autobiography and have voiced my opinions. In short there is not one story I would purchase as a gift for any of my grandchildren.

I understand his view regarding storytelling to infiltrate Catholic principals; this vehicle has been most successfully used for many years. I was blessed in my youth with writers such as R.H. Benson, Lloyd Douglas, Graham Greene, Compton Mackenzie, Evelyn Waugh, G.K. Chesterton, Undest, Cecily Hallack, and other lesser writers.

Granted these authors are old fashioned, but today's youth are not all geared to trivial tales which Father Greeley once stated to the effect "that they would cheer a poor housewife." I have been a housewife and mother and during those tumultuous days: I certainly did not need "cheering."

Sexuality, indeed, is a precious gift which God gives to each of his children by which his honour and glory can be acclaimed. "Some Church leaders might forget it, or never understand it. But they can read St. Paul."

I wonder which ones. Cardinal Francis George noted the "great attention" Father Greeley has given to "the role imagination in the life of faith." Has his reverence read these books?

St. Ignatius used imagination in his meditation exercises. Imagination has been used for centuries, and many Catholic writers have done this.

Eveline Loughlin
Innisfail

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