WITH reference to the “bloodthirsty” public Jesus play (The Argus, April 22 and Letters, April 27), I am not a member of The Church of England but I am a British citizen and I recognise that Great Britain is officially a Christian country.

Last year, the Office For National Statistics’ household survey recorded Christianity at 71.4 per cent (The Times, September 30, 2010). Public religious celebrations are traditional in most countries.

It seems to me that, if more than seven out of ten people in this country are of the opinion that Christ died for them and rose again (defeating death three days later), they have a perfect right to celebrate it and share their beliefs with their children at Eastertide.

While I’m sorry that certain members of the Humanist Society find the prospect “tasteless”, expressing the opinion in a blatant manner at this time might reasonably be expected to cause offence to this Christian majority (according to ONS figures).

If I, for instance, am travelling in aMuslim country, I take care to abide by the local dress code and wear a headscarf – it’s the polite thing to do.

Time then, maybe, that some humanists gave themselves a reality check.

Deirdre Counihan, Hamilton Road, Brighton

IN RESPONSE to the religious event that took place on Brighton beach, firstly, I am Christian, so I appreciate this event. Secondly, isn’t this why everybody else has a holiday?

Or am I missing something?

It was an important event and everyone who took advantage of the lovely weather at Easter should be reminded that Christ went through this [crucifixion] to save them, and all of us. Christian martyrs went through this too.

Unfortunately I was working, otherwise I would like to have gone to the West Pier and enjoyed it.

Bear in mind too that many people would have spent money in pubs and restaurants, which is good for the city’s economy.

Someone should tell humanist groups to look the other way, or bury their heads in the sand and pretend this never happened in the first place.

June Szypulski, Lavender Street, Brighton

I WOULD highly recommend the Passion play as a positive influence for our multi-cultural city.

Far from a gory spectacle, the moments of humour and laughter added pathos to the inevitable outcome.

To hear Mary weeping and singing over the crucified Christ in a Middle Eastern language was unexpectedly touching and the teachings of Christianity were fresh and relevant. The ultimate triumph of the message was truly inspiring.

Jesus himself seemed, for a moment, to enter the city. The crowds surrounding James (the actor playing Jesus) at the end seemed to testify to a hunger for more.

A thoroughly captivating afternoon for every age group.

Jenny Morris, Lancaster Road, Brighton

THE Humanist Society has got it right.

It is unseemly and in bad taste to introduce anything religious on the beach.

Before we know it, we will have people demonstrating against innocent sun worshippers and their swim wear.

This should not have been allowed on the beach. As a resident, I resent every inch taken up for purposes other than relaxation and sunbathing.

Oberammergau sur mer?* I hope not!

*[Oberammergau – a passion play performed in Germany since 1634. Sur mer – French translation of “on the sea”].

C Galustian, address supplied