The Editor, Sir:

I note 'Purple Observer's response on Wednesday to my article which appeared in this newspaper last Saturday under the headline 'Purple-shirted flatulence'.

First, allow me to say the provocative headline was not coined by me, but it was a comment by a reader of www.standfirminfaith.com to describe the just-concluded Lambeth Conference.

Second, on how the Anglican have so far treated with the issue of homosexuality within the ranks of its clergy, I continue to say schism is better than heresy.

Purple Observer said, I "might have suggested that after the Church has cleansed the temple of that lot, let's then go for the adulterers and fornicators."

Well, for the record, my mind did not wander off in that direction. I would not tell Anglicans to go that route. But if Anglicans want to go that far, that is their privilege.

Resolving homosexuality

Third, Purple Observer said also "The Master was not known to have had a purple shirt. I'm sure, however, that Dawes could equip him appropriately."

Sir, I believe the Master is heartbroken over the failure of Anglicans to resolve the issue of homosexuality among clergy.

With that in mind, I find it unlikely that He would request of me a purple shirt. Instead, His request is more likely to be 'Dawes, can you lend me a whip?' To that request, I would happily oblige.

I am, etc.,

MARK DAWES

Religion Editor

The Gleaner