Dear Editor, I wish to congratulate Dr Andrew Maxwell (IC Letters 20/07/2017) on his point that the GAA is the new religion in Ireland. First of all the GAA is very well sponsored for all their games in Croke Park, therefore they should pay all the players. All Ireland tickets will be €90 this year, and the GAA sold their soul to Sky for €10million.
Did not the Church find and shelter the GAA? The officials soon forget the Church, eaten bread is soon forgotten. What is the purpose of a bishop in Croke Park All Ireland Sunday? He represents nothing in the eyes of the GAA.
The Church is useful for; Baptism (most do not practice their religion), First Communion (First Communion money and the sacrament of bouncing castles), Confirmation (the sacrament of looking good and a good feed of drink), marriage (many now go to the registry office) and deaths (bodies can now be cremated).
It is high time that like banks the Church would now move forward and close down its buildings. If the Church cannot maintain, it should be closed – it is a poor chimney that cannot draw its own smoke.
It is quality Christianity that Ireland needs. There are many good people who wish to practice Christianity in Ireland and who are willing to follow Christ. Many go on pilgrimages to strengthen their faith, as many go to rock concerts.
We need guidance in Ireland now and who can give us that leadership?
Yours etc.,
Barry Alldis,
Bray,
Co. Wicklow.