Letters to the Editor

Thanks for the (Christmas) memories

Thank you to the editors of Angelus for coming up with the “Christmas Memories” feature in the Dec. 27 issue. Some of the winning essays were quite moving. I’ve always been skeptical of people who reduce Christmas to warm, fuzzy feelings. Christianity is much more serious than that. But reading those memories, I was reminded that it doesn’t have to always be about dramatic conversion stories; sometimes, a little nostalgia can speak to the heart in mysterious ways. — David Johnson, Amarillo, Texas

A Ratzinger prophecy fulfilled

I applaud Dr. Grazie Christie’s bravery in the Dec. 13 issue, in which she dared to praise the unusual pro-life messaging of Volvo’s latest video advertisement. Taken together with a few other recent examples of a popular turn away from woke antics, I want to believe it will mark some kind of turning point in culture (although I suspect it won’t).  She did well to contrast it with the disturbing visuals of Jaguar’s very different ad, which reminded me of a 2004 essay by the future Pope Benedict XVI about a curious feature of Western culture:  “The West suffers from a strange self-hatred that one can only describe as pathological; although the West tends to be laudably open to other values, it no longer tolerates its own.” — Peter Nalosa, San Jose

Try harder next time, Netflix

Regarding Amy Welborn’s tremendous critique of Netflix’s new “Mary” movie in the Dec. 13 issue: more of this, please.  Not only did her use of “girlboss” have me laughing on my couch, but it made a serious point: If you want to make a movie claiming to tell the real “story” about the Son of God’s origin, you better not insult the audience’s knowledge of Scripture.  In this sense, the show “The Chosen” —  while far from perfect — understands how to achieve this while still taking creative liberties appropriately. — Antonella Durant, Santa Monica

More reactions to ‘Conclave’

I was somewhat aware of the controversy “Conclave” had generated, but I went to see it with an open mind. I found the story line to be captivating, the acting by the cast to be formidable, and the portrayal of what happens behind closed doors to not be scandalous. Priests are imperfect humans, as we all are. Perhaps my advantage is that I’ve worked with many priests over the years, so it was no surprise to watch the different egos, as well as the very human power machinations by the cardinals jockeying to lead the Church. — Maggie Gudiño, Cerritos

More reactions to ‘Conclave’

After watching “Conclave” and reading the Angelus review in the Nov. 1 issue, I wonder if I watched a different movie. I was encouraged by some of my Protestant friends to watch. They had a positive view of the representation of the Catholic Church and appreciated the human portrayal of the cardinals in their differing struggles, and especially the theme that certainty is the opposite of faith. Also, I would note that “intersex” does not mean just a biological woman, and such a description is inaccurate/incomplete. — David Hennon, La Cañada

SUBMIT A LETTER TO THE EDITOR

To submit by mail, send to Letters, Angelus, 3424 Wilshire Blvd. 4th Floor, Los Angeles, CA 90010-2241. Include a telephone number and address. To submit online, click below.

WRITE A LETTER

SUBMIT A LETTER TO THE EDITOR

Continue the conversation! We welcome your comments. Anonymous letters, personal attacks, or libellous comments will not be published. Please complete all the required fields in the form below.

  • Contact Information

  • Your Letter

  • Letters must be no more than 300 words. We reserve the right to edit for style, brevity, and clarity.

Start your day with Always Forward!

A daily email newsletter to help you better understand the Church and the world.