Letter: Turbulent bishops

Sir: Trevor Phillips (Comment, 10 August) contrasts Islam in Africa - "this ancient religion" - with "the imported Christian faith". Perhaps Mr Phillips means only that the Anglican variety of Christianity is "imported" to Africa? He has, surely, heard of the Copts and the Ethiopian Church? He is, surely, aware that Christian faith was widespread throughout North Africa for several centuries before the birth of the prophet Muhammad? And can it really be true that up until last week the only African bishops Mr Phillips had heard of were Trevor Huddleston and Desmond Tutu? An Independent columnist, commenting on religious affairs, who has never heard of St Augustine? Good grief!

JOHN COSGROVE

Camborne,Cornwall