Sir, Speculation about how “progressive” or “conservative” the papacy of Pope Benedict XVI is likely to be may fill hungry column inches (letters, April 23, etc), but is it not now time to describe this religious leader in terms of his faithfulness to prayer, the spiritual life and Christ? These things will shape this papacy.

Yours faithfully,
MARTIN BOLAND,
(Roman Catholic Chaplain, University of Essex),
1 Recreation Way, Brightlingsea,
Colchester, Essex CO7 0NJ.
April 24.

From the Reverend Jean M. Mayland

Sir, You say (leading article, April 20) that “social issues” such as the role of women, contraception and attitudes to homosexuality are not of the greatest importance to most Catholics.

It seems to me that the full use of the God-given talents of women, enjoyment of God’s gift of sexuality without fear of repeated child-bearing, and an open and welcoming attitude to homosexuals are not merely social issues, but matters which go to the heart of the gospel which all Christians are called upon to proclaim.

Yours faithfully,
JEAN M. MAYLAND,
Minister Cottage, 51 Sands Lane,
Barmston, East Yorkshire YO25 8PQ.
April 21.

From Professor Emeritus J. F. Lazenby

Sir, Is there any evidence that the three early Popes, Victor I, Miltiades and Gelasius were actually black (report, April 19)?

Descriptions of them in the sources as “African” or “of African birth” mean no more than that they came from Roman Africa. As such they might have been of Berber, Phoenician, Greek or Italian stock — no more “black” than the Emperor Septimius Severus or St Augustine of Hippo.

Yours faithfully,
J. F. LAZENBY,
15 Rectory Terrace, Gosforth,
Newcastle upon Tyne NE3 1YB.
April 19.

Explore Letters

• Feedback