DEAR EDITOR:

This is re: the Diocese decree banning funeral visitation on church property. How uncaring, how unfeeling, how out-of-touch this bishop is! Does this decree apply to priests and nuns, too? Remember who built these churches and who pays to maintain and keep them running. Did anyone even bother to consult the laity as to their needs? No! It was decided by money-hungry funeral directors (what a conflict of interest) and priests who like more free time.

I am not talking about priests serving four or five parishes who kill themselves trying to keep this Diocese going; they deserve a medal.

I have some questions and comments regarding Bishop Bonnar’s statements:

�–� Who put together the Order of Christian funerals?

�–� What is the purpose of the vestibule / greeting space as you enter the church? Why can’t it be used for viewing and praying for the deceased? Many people can’t physically handle a two-day funeral service. A transfer to the church can also mean a transfer from the vestibule / greeting space to the church proper.

•Did you ever try to pray in church before or after Mass or weddings? How about a decree banning talking in church? The Protestants could teach us much.

•Speaking of weddings, what happened to modesty? At the last wedding I attended, the dresses looked like they were painted on and left nothing to the imagination. Where is your decree that people must dress modestly in church, including a ban on shorts and low-cut / short dresses?

�–� What about those secular band concerts in the sanctuary of our churches (ref: Vindicator, Nov. 15-16, D-8). Far from “Divine Worship.”

�–� Are you going to pick up the bill for the funeral services that you have mandated on the Laity?

Don’t be surprised at the number of dwindling Catholic funerals and lower collections.

Wake up, Bishop. Jesus founded His Church on a “trend;” love and compassion and mercy. You have placed a heavy yoke upon God’s flock. Rescind your oppressive decree.

NANETTE BALL

Hubbard