I am responding to the People of Praise column written by the Rev. Mark Gurtner (March 3). I remember reading the political cartoon that Gurtner referred to from The Journal Gazette. This degrading cartoon was just one more attempt by the secular media to discredit candidate Rick Santorum. A great majority of voters agree with Santorum that America is at war with Satan on many fronts, especially when it comes to the family. Gurtner did an excellent job of explaining how our contraceptive/abortive culture has damaged respect for women and respect for human life within the family. Satan is, indeed, on the attack today, and this is reflected every day as you listen to the evening news.

For Clare Walter (March 19) to blame her mother’s large family on the struggles and problems she has today just makes no sense. The most successful and unselfish people I know came from very large families. Growing up in a large family is the environment that nourishes sharing, sacrifice, appreciation, communication and many other virtues that help you in life.

There is much neglect in today’s world, and the causes are many and varied. But growing up in a large family, with a loving mother and father, is not one of them.

Thank you, Father Gurtner, for taking the time to explain God’s beautiful design for marriage and families.

ANITA McMAHON

Fort Wayne