RE “BISHOP criticizes Kennedy remarks’’ (Metro, Nov. 23): Bishop Thomas J. Tobin of Rhode Island felt obligated two years ago to instruct Representative Patrick J. Kennedy not to take Communion. The bishop’s upset regarding the public airing of his 2007 letter to Kennedy continues to foster what the Catholic Church seems to have assumed is an 11th commandment: Thou shalt honor secrecy and confidentiality of whatever may bring the church’s personnel to task.
Tobin has learned nothing from the impact secrecy and confidentiality have played in the clergy sex abuse scandal. This attitude disserves the church and the state.
In this country there is a separation of church and state. How difficult the turmoil of politicians who are part of religions that oppose their politics. However, politicians add luster to their office when they act in good conscience for the public good. This country recognizes and respects all religions and beliefs; many of the country’s politicians do the same.
This is a letter to the editor. Yet I wonder what prelate may interpret it as a letter of application for excommunication?
Len DeAngelis
Newport, R.I. 
