The bishops of England and Wales make a strong case for keeping churches open during the current lockdown. But what is the reality? People can only attend church then scuttle away without any real contact with fellow worshippers.

Most grassroots support for those in need will carry on whether or not churches are open. The St Vincent de Paul Society has proved this over the past 10 months.

I know three priests who have been infected with the virus. I dread to think how many people these priests could have infected. What about priests who are themselves vulnerable? No matter how hard our wonderful stewards work there will remain a danger of infection.

Rose Mullarkey
Moreton, Wirral