[To- the Editor of the SPECTATOR.] : )_,.
SIR,—I do not know whether you will allow a Quaker to enter into the discussion on the use of the term "Catholic ." raised by Mr. Noyes. To some of us this word " Catholic " and the history now associated with it has little to attract. The- organization which has made most use of the term has never taken pains to make itself popular with the great mass of mankind, who have not been amongst its members:- •
I do feel that Mr. Noyes has given an illuminating explanation in stating so ingenuously one Of his chief reagens for joining what he likes to call a Catholic Church, If I Understand him right, it is that." truth." requires a central authority: That this necessary central authority must be 'game human organization and because of this he would have it called a Catholic Church. Isn't that the issue? Always the fear present that " truth P' cannot live without our aid ; and always the corollary that the human organiza- tion Which preserves the " truth " has some divine and superhuman power given to it, and should be, even if it isn't, Catholic:
hope that none of your readers will 'allow themselves to be stampeded by tears for the eafetY'of the-"- truth," except that they see to it that their Jive i 'are litre& still more -in- the Jove and ePirit of •Jesus, who in His day fought against' jUst the- same 'intolerant pronouncernent, and 'pointed out: the so sinaplY' that effeh per%on mity • fina their -Ways to 'our Cainmon Father.-I Ain, Sir,- &c., '-A. Gnix:Erri,'•
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