Readers Speak Out: August 2 - 9

Different rules

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has apologized for so many wrongdoings of late. He’s “sorry” about blackface; he’s “sorry” about SNC-Lavalin; he’s “sorry” about the conflict of interest with WE Charity — involving payments to three of his family members, exceeding a total of $300,000, in exchange for public relations appearances for the charity. This preceded Ottawa’s granting WE a nearly one-billion-dollar contract they then cancelled. Mr. Trudeau operates by different rules.

He could’ve spared himself another ethics investigation by removing himself from the decision. His family could’ve refunded the money to come clean. The Liberal government could’ve removed WE from consideration to avoid an accusation of favouritism. After two previous counts of wrongdoing by the federal ethics commissioner, Justin Trudeau might prove the long-held Conservative propaganda-prong that the Liberal party operates on another moral plane entirely.

Christopher Mansour,

Barrie, Ont.

Real leader

Re: Cardinal sets example of real leadership (July 17):

When I saw the title of Charles Lewis’ article, I immediately hoped it would be about Cardinal Collins. Thankfully it was and I endorse absolutely everything said about him.

I would also include his over 100 Masses in a row with full sermons since the start of the pandemic as support for us and his most enlightening of sermons teaching us about the saints, martyrs and literary figures of faith, in addition to his deep insight into the word of God.

But, most importantly of all, I am touched by his instructions on how to be a Catholic in 2020. It is OK to feel isolated.  It is OK to feel persecuted. Being a Catholic today means swimming against the tide. Nothing fanatic, but peacefully and stoically radical for the orthodox way of our faith.

May Our Lord continue to bless your work.

John JF Killackey,

Mississauga, Ont.

Rename therapy

Re: Conversion therapy bill on risky path (June 14):

I read with dismay the article on the proposed Bill C-8. Being a therapist myself, I know the benefits of good “talk therapy.” I would think that the name “conversion therapy” suggests the therapy is to convert gays, lesbians and those with sexual dysphoria to being straight. That is definitely not the case. Anyone with emotional difficulties, depression and anxiety can benefit from “talking therapy,” as has been shown in numerous studies.

There are numerous types of therapies which are not banned as long as they are done by professionals, usually doctors, psychologists and social workers. So why not rename conversion therapy as psychotherapy, specializing in sexual difficulties? Many gay/lesbian individuals struggle with their orientation, but have no where to go for counselling.

Danuta Dias,

Etobicoke, Ont.

Kind words

Re: Kindness is sign of strength (July 5):

Could you please thank Fr. Scott Lewis for his above article in your paper? It was exactly what I needed to read at the time and I cut it out to keep with my prayers. Please also pass on to Robert Kinghorn that I think his work is wonderful!

Gail Bomers,

Toronto