I was interested to read the “petition” by nearly 500 priests addressed to the Synod (News from Britain and Ireland, 28 March). As a member of the laity who has battled through two (mainly incomprehensible) questionnaires issued by the Vatican, I had not realised an alternative form of persuasion was available. Leaving aside the subject matter of the letter and the wisdom in publicising it, what other issues are now open for to us to petition the hierarchy of the Church? Are we now able to petition our parish priests and bishops for the change we want to see happen? What exciting times lie ahead of us!Ann Bevan, Portishead, Somersetl I was saddened to read Aidan Nichols’ letter (28 March) for its vaunted but flawed understanding of Christian marriage. It may be true that