Now the Roman Catholic Bishop of Leeds Arthur Roche has seen fit to wipe that all out by closing our parish church of St John the Evangelist, Allerton Bywater.


He cites falling congregations and a shortage of priests. Along with the people of Holy Family, Chequerfield and Our Lady of Lourdes, Ackworth we strongly protest these reasons.
Our church is full every Sunday, and weekday masses are also well attended. We have an active social life which contributes to the life of the village, particularly the elderly, and our hall is widely used. As for the shortage of priests, our present priest is being removed from normal priestly duties.


The "consultation" held by the Bishop was so cynical that he never replied to, never mind discussed, the three reasoned submissions made by our parish council. We are of no significance to him. Under Church Law he is obliged to visit each parish at least once in five years – we have had no visit for more than ten years.
However, all our three parishes would appear to have valuable land assets.


MALCOLM D L BRUMWELL
Kippax

WE wish to thank all those who have voiced their support for the non-closure of Holy Family Church, Pontefract, by prayers, letters and e-mails. Please continue – God bless you all.
We are heartened by the success of Hardwick Road post office, the people deserve their success, they worked hard for it.


We cannot underestimate the battle ahead of us. We cannot do it alone – we need the help and support of everyone. Our goal is to be as successful as Hardwick Road – it won't be for the lack of trying.


JAMES and MAUREEN WALSH, ANNE DYER, ANDREW WALKER