It was good to read another contribution from Rev John Webster (Letters, December 20) but at the same time it provoked a feeling of disappointment.

Clearly the state of the nation had depressed him and in this connection he recalled the words contained in the First Epistle of John which advocate that the sins of the world are of its own making.

Fortunately, he was able to find solace by joining other Christians in a carol service and in reflecting upon the Christmas message.

My disappointment stems from the fact that, although I agree with everything he said, he has not sought to promote solutions to our problems.

There is no doubt society is riddled with corruption and the majority is self-absorbed but is this surprising when we are governed by individuals who habitually seek to mislead us and the constant drip of half-truths is eroding such integrity remains?

Is it surprising when the traditions and family values we hold dear are constantly under attack and we are vilified when we challenge those who seek to impose their beliefs?

We talk of political correctness but what of spiritual correctness?

According to figures recently released from the 2001 Census, some 37 million British adults describe themselves as Christian.

By contrast, seven million people say they have no religion. The next biggest group are Muslims, who number about one and a half million.

So why, in a predominantly Christian country, are we being told to relinquish our traditions and why are the churches so empty?

I believe we are lacking unequivocal direction from the national leadership of our established Church.

Little purpose is served by referring to the Holy Bible as a set of rules to be followed according to the mood of the audience.

We are living in an age of communication where big issues are openly debated but we hear very little from senior clerics. They prefer to look inwards, preaching only to their immediate congregation and avoiding contentious issues, many of which have a bearing on fundamental Christian beliefs.

If so many people are prepared to admit some allegiance to Christianity, the churches should be full and the established church should be playing a greater part in addressing ethical issues and providing moral leadership - this will not be achieved by a deafening silence.

-Neil Kelly, Hove