Somewhere in the Bible it suggests that we should cease to look for the faults in others whilst ignoring our own - hence the parable in the New Testament 'do not point out the speck of dust in your neighbour's eye whilst you have a plank of wood in your own'.

It is my personal opinion that the Church of England's' Chichester Diocese, in particular, has failed inexcusably to practise what it preaches.

The plank of wood, seems to be causing an obstruction in their vision, whilst pointing out the continuous specks of dust which appear amongst their flagging congregations and the general lack of moral fibre around in general.

Perhaps one may suggest they might examine the story of the feeding of the 5,000 and thereby withhold comments of 'due to lack of funds' and get their priorities right.

Some of their schools are a disgrace in terms of discipline, spiritual nurture, quality of the buildings and overcrowded classrooms.

Perhaps if they realise that, in spite of their various housing associations building properties for the lower income families, that can never be a long-term solution to homelessness and inadequate housing.

If, they really went out on a limb and built schools to compare with the independent sector, maintaining the same standards across the board, then there might not be such a need to build houses for the poor as through a decent education and knowledge of Christ's love for them, these little ones may be able to build their own one day.

-Jacqueline Madders, Orchard Gardens, Hove