Father Donnelly’s Position (Press, 20 May 1980)

On 20 May 1980, several letters to the editor were published in "The Press," addressing various social concerns related to upbringing, morality, and institutional authority. Dr Gieser, in a prior article, asserted that fostering self-confidence in children to refuse unwanted sexual advances is essential to combat child abuse. A letter from B.P. Lilburn responds by suggesting that children would benefit more from guidance by figures like Father Donnelly rather than traditional moralists. Lilburn believes that this kind of support would empower children by instilling dignity and inner strength, allowing them to navigate complex situations and make informed decisions without fear. According to Lilburn, schools are often limited in providing this guidance, necessitating a reliance on both scientific understanding and spiritual insight instead of outdated moralistic viewpoints. Another letter by V.H. Anderson critiques the confusion among Catholics post-Vatican II, particularly regarding the interpretation of traditional laws and moral authority. Anderson discusses the case of Father Donnelly, where the local bishop must discern the situation, raising concerns over perceived modernist tendencies among bishops who might overlook Donnelly's actions. Anderson uses an analogy of surgery to convey that decisive action is required to prevent further harm to the "body" of the Church, implying that if members who feel pain do not advocate for change, the institution may ultimately suffer. Lastly, J.P. Edgar presents an allegory about a rugby coach who attempts to transform the sport into soccer, suggesting a broader commentary on modern changes in established traditions. Edgar likens the situation to a rugby club's response to the coach's radical alterations, emphasising the outrage of true rugby enthusiasts against those unfamiliar with the sport. This letter highlights the tension between maintaining traditions and adapting to new ideas, as well as the frustrations that arise when fundamental aspects of identity are challenged. The correspondences reveal a broader dialogue around authority, education, and the complexities of societal change, showcasing the challenges faced by both individuals and institutions in navigating evolving moral landscapes.

The text on this page is created, in the most part, using Generative AI and so may contain errors or omissions. It is supplied to you without guarantee or warranty of correctness. If you find an error or would like to make a content suggestion please get in contact

The text on this page is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 3.0 New Zealand