RE: Religion

To the Editors of The Crimson:

Your November 12 opinion piece, titled "Ole Time Religion," is misleading and incorrect.

The United Ministry's "anti-cult handbook" to which the author, Patrick Long, refers is, in actuality, a one page brochure. Titled "Destructive Religious Activity" it is our modest recognition that there can be a destructive side to religious life. Mr. Long's statement that we have written a handbook on cults is wrong, but in the light of his misconceptions we should perhaps pursue the issue.

The author might be interested to know that we have several complaints from students about what they regard as the manipulative techniques of the Boston Church of Christ. We hope he would agree that the destructive activity of any religious organization both deserves and requires public scrutiny.

Two points need to be made. Because human beings are fallible no religious group has a monopoly on the truth. And people have a right to know if a religious group thrives on idolatry, intolerance and the destruction of personality.

The Crimson identifies Mr. Long as a "campus critic." I hope in the future that the Crimson's efforts will reflect greater accuracy. Had the writer consulted the United Ministry, we would not have proselytized but we might have set him straight. Larry N. Hill   President, The United Ministry