Cardinal Law’s Action in Resolving Oxymoron

September 2, 1993

Below is a beautifully crafted letter from the Cardinal. While Cardinal Law was actually promoting sex education in the Archdiocese through his staff; in hindsight, his letters to me appear to be a smoke-screen. Note the highlighted words. The Cardinal asks for a “deeper investigation.”

Mrs. Alice Grayson
1705 Emerson Avenue South
Minneapolis, MN 55403

Dear Alice Ann:

In February of this year, you sent me a voluminous report detailing the various kinds of materials in sexual education courses that you found problematic. At that time, I thanked you and indicated that I would give the report to Monsignor Murphy so he might look at it in greater detail. Monsignor Murphy informs me that he told you that he would look at it over the summer, which he has done.

The issues which you raise and the material that you bring to the fore are all very serious and deserve the attention which we are giving them. I intend to have a longer and deeper investigation of several of these matters by those who have the responsibility for education here in the Archdiocese. To my mind, it is very important that they come to grips with the points which you bring forth in your study.

In saying this, I want to express to you two things. First, to assure you of the seriousness with which the Archdiocese will continue and deepen its reflection on these issues with an aim at rectifying anything which needs to be rectified and second to express you you my appreciation for the determined and consistent way that you have approached this matter.

Assuring you of my prayers, I am

Sincerely in Christ,

Bernard Cardinal Law
Archbishop of Boston