Letter: In Brief

Sir: How amusing to read Richard Dawkins's "bluffer's guide" to the penal substitutionary theory of atonement (letter, 9 February). There is some evidence here of a first-rate theological mind, though also concern about a fundamentalist strain in his thinking. Further reading could be of help (I should be happy to supply a list); but since, in the current jargon of pastoral care, we are asked to "get alongside people where they are", perhaps Professor Dawkins could start with The Ladybird Book of Jesus. It would represent a considerable advance.

The Rev JOHN SWARBRICK

Maidenhead, Berkshire