Letter to the Editor from Decatur, GA

Published: April 15, 2004

To the Editor:

As a woman in the Roman Catholic Church, it is difficult to understand why anyone would be offended that 12 men should be chosen to represent the apostles when celebrating and commemorating the Last Supper during Holy Thursday services. After all, didn’t Jesus choose 12 men, his apostles, to be with him on that evening?  I don’t recall seeing any movies, including “The Passion of the Christ,” or viewing any sacred art, past or present, in which women were present at the Last Supper.

For example, when viewing movies, plays, or art in regard to the birth of Jesus, the Christmas story is seen or retold as authentically as possible. Is Jesus ever depicted as a baby girl, or are the shepherds and wise men portrayed as women? Of course not! Then neither should the Last Supper or any other Bible account be misrepresented. “They are as they were.”

Furthermore, as a Catholic woman, I truly feel that I am honored and valued in my church and fully support Archbishop Donoghue and his decision on this matter.

Romana Khalaf, Decatur