Jean Calder's recent article and the ensuing discussion relating to redundant and underused church buildings in Brighton (The Argus, June 3), surely implies the question: "What on Earth is the Church for?"

It has been observed that, at one time, Brighton had as many churches as it had pubs.

In the late-Victorian era, this may have been an indication of the importance of spiritual life in the city - expressed through Church attendance.

Spiritual meaning and expression have changed significantly for individuals through the years.

Nonetheless, they still exist and, today, are sought in many diverse ways - hence the empty church buildings.

Surely the Christian Church is more than mere buildings?

It should "demonstrate" Christian values - love, compassion and care for all sections of our community, particularly victims or those on the margins of society - in relevant ways through vibrant and lively congregations.

It should "proclaim" forgiveness, freedom from the past and a hope for the future are available for all. Church buildings are a means to that end but their maintenance and upkeep should be secondary to the main purpose of the Church, as a body of people representing Christ on Earth.

I would agree with Rev Terry - if buildings have outlived their usefulness, why not dispose of them or put them to other uses?

To saddle local clergy or Church leadership with the financial burden of what are often costly-to-maintain listed buildings is surely to divert much-needed resources from the primary role of the Christian Church.

We clearly have, however, a wonderful architectural heritage of church buildings (erected to inspire worship) which does to a certain extent mark the spiritual history of this nation and which should be preserved.

Here I agree with Jean that a body such as English Heritage, possibly supported by national funding, should work in partnership with the Church of England and other denominations to preserve the best examples of these buildings for future generations to visit, to use for quiet contemplation and, maybe, to enquire about the God who inspired their construction in the first place.

-Dave Monk, Patcham, Brighton