Congratulations on a Great Career
Dear Editor: Congratulations to Joe Coen (“Coen-gratulations: Celebrating the Diocese of Brooklyn Archivist’s Remarkable Career, Retirement,” Aug. 23) on his service and achievements, and thanks for his faith-filled example in all he does.
Msgr. Sean Ogle
Williamsburg
Dear Editor:
Great article acknowledging and celebrating Joe Coen’s love and dedication to his work. Congratulations to Joe on his retirement.
John Coen
Queens Village
Bishop Ray Chappetto’s Letters of Wisdom
Dear Editor: Bishop Ray Chappetto’s story (“‘Bishop Ray’s Blog’: Bishop Raymond Chappetto Reflects on Eight Decades of Service and Faith in the Diocese of Brooklyn,” Aug. 23) is an inspiration for all who know him, as I have since 1975.
Frank Ascanio
Howard Beach
Dear Editor: Thank you, Bishop Ray, for your insights and your dedicated service.
Tony Ercolano and Margaret Brower
Flushing
The Latin Mass
Dear Editor: As one who is literally a cradle Catholic brought up with the Latin Mass and serving as an altar boy on occasion, I thought I would offer an opinion regarding it.
My question is: Does Latin in any way impede the spreading of the Gospel? Does having to learn an ancient language delay in any way the need for priests?
Undoubtedly, it was used in the past as a universal form of communication by the hierarchy, but in this day and age of electronics, is it still vital?
There is doubt in my mind that the Latin Mass should be allowed where it is desired or appreciated.
However, I’m interested in the sacrifice, not the language itself.
Each morning, I think ‘Introibo ad altare Dei’ (I will go to the altar of God) as I offer my Mass for my deceased family members and the souls in purgatory.
It does however, give joy to my old age.
Thomas Cullinane
Bayside
Eucharistic Ministers Bring the Mass to Homes
Dear Editor: In her letter (“It’s Time to Go Back to Church,” July 19), Miss Moore reminded us that Mother Angelica, years ago, brought the ability to attend Mass on TV for the benefit of the elderly and homebound on NET TV, which was a gift for those who participated.
But she stressed that the purpose of the Mass was the Eucharist, and without frequent reception of it, those persons were not truly blessed.
Well, I am one of those who religiously watch Mass every Sunday on TV, and I am blessed to have a wonderful neighbor, Lillian Santos, who brings me the Eucharist every Sunday, without fail.
She is a tireless volunteer worker for our parish, American Martyrs, and has become a cherished friend.
God bless her and all the angels that do the Lord’s work!
Constance Dowd
Oakland Gardens