Changes in the Catholic Church

Regarding the informative story on the growth of Latinos in the Catholic Church, particularly in Los Angeles, March 25:

Only one comment is in order. Several quotes of priests serving in downtown L.A. and Boyle Heights would leave the reader with the impression that since the pews are filled with Latinos, non-Latino parishioners are staying away. In fact, they aren’t staying away; they aren’t there! Residential demographics account for this.

Catholics don’t commute long distances to Mass; they don’t have to because there are so many churches. Except in newer-settled areas, churches were traditionally located within walking distance from parishioners’ homes. Also, the current objective is to create a Catholic community where people share many other things besides attendance at Mass and this militates against parishes having far-flung membership.

Other languages, such as Korean, Vietnamese and Tagalog (even Latin!), are used in a few churches. I think we will all be speaking Spanish soon--in church.

WALTER S. FISHER

Palos Verdes Estates

* I am writing to express my appreciation for Anne-Marie O’Conner’s article. It realistically describes the many issues and concerns we experience as a church.

It is evident to me as an associate pastor of East Los Angeles that the presbyterate of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese who work extensively with immigrant people are really committed to helping them with both their spiritual and immediate physical needs. So many things are being done for so many people in need. It is encouraging to me as a young priest to see that the goodness and power of the human spirit are alive and well.

FATHER CARL D. TRESLER

Associate Pastor

Resurrection Catholic Church

Los Angeles