All, Gilbert's statement is curious and wrong for the following reasons:
1. The vast, overwhelming consensus is that the caste system is alive and well among some Goan Catholics and in the Goa church. Except for Gilbert, most (all?) of the posts appear to suggest it exists. So I am not sure what further consensus is needed other than Gilbert is now grudgingly admitting to what is obvious to the rest of us. 2. I am not sure what "a few of them happen to be Catholics" means? The caste system exists among some Hindus too. Is Gilbert still being defensive with respect to Catholics with an emphasis on their feelings? 3. Over the last few years, some priests and nuns have written or spoken to me privately and have commended me for my constructive comments where the church needs to improve. In addition, I occasionally receive thanks for my positive comments - the most recent was two weeks ago regarding the great work the Redemptorist Goan priests are doing in social justice matters. In certain instances, they said they wrote or speak privately as they teach at Catholic institutions or are affiliated with Catholic hospitals, etc. and do not want public comments to generate controversy. Same with lay Catholics who have written or spoken to me privately. I understand but I do not agree as I think it is important to speak up publicly. Is Gilbert constrained by being in this group where he cannot speak out "without wounding any individual, group of individuals, segments of Goan society or Goan institutions"? Regards, George --- Gilbert Lawrence <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote: > > With so many replies to Cornell, here may be consensus statement around > which many Goan Catholics participating in this thread may find > acceptable. > ........ > > "Some Goans still continue to have some deep-seated caste instincts and > unfortunately a few of them happen to be Catholics." > > This makes a lot more sense without wounding any individual, group of > individuals, segments of Goan society or Goan institutions.
