Dichotomy of Opinions
Paul Vanderham, Edmonton
Volume 38 Issue 1, 2, & 3 | Posted: April 2, 2023
The Editor:
What a curious publication ICN has become!
This last issue included a number of solid articles, including Len Desroches’ well-informed reflection on Francis of Assisi’s encounter with Sultan Malik al Kamil. The ivory horn the Sultan gave to Francis remains a powerful symbol of the significance of the encounter from Francis’ perspective, especially when seen on display in the crypt of the Baslica of St. Francis in Assisi, next to the few articles of clothing (patched cloak, well-worn slippers) worn by the ‘little poor man’ who had renounced material possessions.
As a member of the Franciscan family (worldly branch), I wonder what Francis would have thought about a few more dubious articles in the last issue. I’m thinking especially here of the bizarre piece by François Brassard, which would seem to have little if anything to do with Catholic spirituality, and which provides no meaningful context for such lines as, “My soul as Feeno leaves Juliette’s body and floats above close to the ceiling…”! I can appreciate that François is a friend of yours, but do you really think that such musings belong in your publication?
More dubious still is the article by “Bishop” Jan Kryzanowski. While wholeheartedly in favour of the ordination of women, I cannot, as a Franciscan, endorse the schismatic movement in which she exercises her leadership.
My wife and I requested multiple copies of ICN so that we could make copies available to our fellow parishioners free of charge. Since we can no longer do that without causing scandal, we have decided to cancel our subscription.
Peace and all good
Paul Vanderham, Edmonton
Paul Vanderham, Edmonton