Who are the Iraqi people going to elect when we finally do transfer power? If given a choice of leaders, they will probably choose a radical Islamic leader. Imagine for a minute the fair election of anti-U.S. cleric Muqtada al-Sadr, who enjoys much popular support. It is very likely we'll have another Iran or Sudan in the Middle East after elections.

I applaud many of the reasons for President Bush being in Iraq and freeing its people. But, even if everything went right for the United States (and it hasn't), I fear a democracy in Iraq will not produce the results Bush is looking for.

Roger Cole, Newtown

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U.S. has duty to show nonviolence

Violence causes more violence is a fact that history has proven time and time again. In our age, we use words such as revenge, retaliation and tactical airstrikes to cover up the basic action, which is violence. The violence that the U.S. Army has caused greatly exceeds the violence al-Qaida has done. The violence that happened on 9-11 is not an excuse for more death and suffering to happen. The people responsible for 9-11 should be punished, but we, as a nation at war, are fighting not only them, but also the civilians, including children, of Iraq, from the farmers to the shopkeepers. It is the responsibility of the United States, as the only superpower in the world, to show the world how to use violence, and the best way to use it is to never use it. Nonviolence will then cause more nonviolence.

Shawn Tenbrink, Mount Airy

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Don't cast stones at reinstated priest

As a member of Our Lady of Visitation parish, I wish to comment on the article about our former pastor, the Rev. Ray Larger ("Convicted priest returns to ministry," May 13). He was convicted of soliciting sex in a Dayton park last August, and suspended from church ministry.

His actions caused much suffering to the church, our parish, his family and friends. But I doubt anyone suffered as much as Father Ray.

He is a gifted man who can still give much to Christ's church and his people. Sadly, some object to Archbishop Daniel Pilarczyk's decision to return Father Ray to the ministry. Who are we to object to a penitent priest's service when so much help is needed? Who of us sinners is willing to cast the first stone? Sadly, some already have.

Marian Ellerhorst, Green Township

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Don't reward crime against society

The headline "Convicted priest returns to ministry" (May 13) brought three words to mind: forgive, reward and trust. If you are a Christian, you must be able to forgive, and I believe that. But nowhere have I learned that a person who has been caught and convicted of two misdemeanor sex charges should be rewarded by resuming his prior life. After a person has committed a crime against society, it is not sound policy to trust such a person in a position of teaching and ministering to people where trust is a major part of the ministry.

Barbara Thoman, Columbia Township

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Praise for Little Miami Inc., Portman

I was delighted to read the article about the outstanding conservation work Little Miami Inc. has done over the years to protect the Little Miami River ("Portman praises Little Miami," May 12).

The article noted that Rep. Rob Portman, R-Ohio, was the featured speaker at the Little Miami Inc. annual dinner. Portman has introduced important legislation that has helped protect streams like the Little Miami through tax incentives to landowners who want to need to sell their property but also want to protect their land for conservation.

Both Portman and Little Miami Inc. should be commended for their dedication, vision and service to our community.

Janet Longacre, Lebanon

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Finery reflects Eucharist's great truth

Regarding the story "Restoring the focus on faith/First communion: Church tones it down" (May 10), as a Catholic for 43 years, I have never witnessed any of the first communion extravagances described, such as "limos, country club parties, tuxedos and lavish gowns." However, white dresses and veils, ties and suits, big parties and gifts - that is the Catholic tradition, and I'm glad it is.

Catholics believe that the Eucharist is the real body, blood, soul and divinity of Christ. This truth is the center of our faith and our Mass. Special clothing and celebrations draw attention to the importance of the Eucharist. They don't distract from the true meaning. So instead of "toning down' first holy communion, perhaps what we really need to do is remember to treat every holy communion as the special occasion that it is.

Mary Massa, Anderson Township