16 JULY 1983, Page 19

Polish paradox

Sir: Timothy Garton Ash (2 July) was one of the few observers in Poland who pointed out clearly the paradox of the Church's position there. One could go even further: the Vatican politicians under the Polish Pope must in the global sense consider the Church's position in Poland as one of the strongest in the world, with churches filled to capacity by old and young alike at every service, strong sermons, vast numbers of publications, new churches springing up everywhere and considerably more priestly vocations than in any other Catholic coun- try. Might not this sheer strength of faith turn the paradox into the ultimate weapon?

P. C. Blauth-Muszkowski

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