Although not Catholic, I find it necessary to protest your treatment of Pope Benedict XVI. In Sunday’s Mercury News, you had three articles and two political cartoons referring to him. All were critical. This is not something new.

I don’t know what it is with you of the mainstream media — you can’t pass on any opportunity to slam this pope or his predecessor for not being American liberals. The constant references to them being “ultra-conservative” are excessive. It’s also unnecessary to refer almost exclusively to the whining of malcontents.

It is true that Jesus was very forgiving of sinners, and for this I am eternally grateful, since that includes me. But please note that forgiveness has to be preceded by repentance.

Frank L. Messersmith
Cupertino

Who were those Catholics you presented in the April 24 article as being “deflated” by the selection of the new pope? Do you really think that was an accurate representation of what Catholics think, or are you presenting a small vocal group who are probably misguided in the first place? How can they honestly be discouraged already?

The new pope has been in the office a week and you have people ready to give up or leave the church already. These quitters lost their faith a long time ago.

David McCaine
San Jose

damn straight!

i know the last few posts haven’t been anything but quotes from things (shows, newspaper articles, letters). too much to do, too little time. i’m headed off to nashville today to watch my sister run the Country Music Marathon. She’s nuts, but i admire someone who can do something like this. go sis!