Dear Editor:
I myself have also been struggling with the horrifying events that have taken and are taking place [in the Catholic Church]. But I would hope that in presenting your opinions of the matter you would make sure your facts were correct. Saying that all the Newman Center has done is to say “pray” is not accurate and makes it evident that not much time was put into research.
If there had been research, it would have been easy to note that Newman spent time preparing an information session to help all those who are struggling with the issues of sexual abuse within the Catholic
Church. All were welcome, it was advertised in the same way all Newman activities are. It was hosted by two UMass psychology professors that gave people background on pedophilia and the facts of the disease. Different backgrounds of priests and religious were present along with students of UMass and adults from the Amherst community. Many ideas were confronted and explored. All present were given time to freely express their own beliefs and feelings on the matter.
This issue has not been ignored by Newman. It is a huge tragedy and changes need to be made, but please be fair in recognizing that the Newman Center is doing what it can to help our community and know they are open to ideas that would better serve the need within our community.
Sincerely,
Julie Matta
Dear Editor:
The civil rights movement of the sixties fought for the equality of all men and women. Today in our classrooms, teachers’ revere upon how far we have come and where we stand today. United we stand seems to be the clich