SIR – What a brilliant reception Pope Francis received in America last week as he addressed Congress and the United Nations. Millions watched him on television, lined the streets and attended the special masses.

Never has the Catholic church been more buoyant as many lapsed Catholics return to church and others seek conversion.

And for those regular church goers a great sense of pride in their faith and a warmth to welcome new members to their communities.

Peter Moreland, Harewood Avenue, Heckmondwike