THE EDITOR, Sir:

Reference to The Sunday Gleaner - 6.1.2008 Pg. 5, 'Bartlett bashes Church's anti-casino stance'. Sir, this is so serious. We do not believe Mr. Bartlett would agree with it as stated and if the Hon. minister should be bold enough to come out and say yes, he stands by his words, with all due respect, we would question the honourable gentleman as to what moral or spiritual rights he has to bash the churches.

The blind cannot lead the blind; both will fall into the ditch. God never, throughout the ages, uses politicians to rebuke the Church; it was always the other way around.

Alas, the Church does not or should not only take a stance against casino gambling but against all forms of gambling. Our Lord says, 'Thou shall love they neighbour as thyself'.

One must lose

This is, so you would not want to use any form of gambling to take away what your neighbour has and all forms of gambling means one must lose, the other wins. There is no love in that.

Of course, you will find so-called Christians or church people in betting queues, etc. That does not make gambling right for all; it may be right for politicians and their followers; it can't be right for the followers of Jesus. No way!

We would advise politicians worldwide to be good politicians. Stick to politics and don't try to direct the Church. No fountain can give sweet and bitter water at the same time. Give unto Caesar what belongs to Caesar, etc.

May God help us all!

I am, etc.,

A.A. WHITE

Jesus Witness Ministries

Hatfield P.O.

Manchester

Editors' note: Mr. Bartlett did not specifically criticise the Church's stance on casino gaming. He made a broader reference to interests groups lobbying against casino gaming.