I am writing about Dan Rose’s column, “Bishop Morlino danger to rational Catholicism” (April 3). I marvel at the fact this freshman is majoring in journalism; it appears he has not learned much from his classes thus far.

The column is a series of unsubstantiated accusations, including calling Bishop Morlino “incompetent,” “ill-informed,” “corrupt” and “murdering.” In addition, he accuses the bishop of “outright sexism and bigotry.” He asks his readers not to sink to Morlino’s “level of hatred.”

While Mr. Rose is entitled to his baseless opinions, it seems strange there is no editor who asked him to substantiate his accusations. Plus, he gets basic facts wrong. He states Bishop Morlino was transferred to Madison last summer, but he has actually been the bishop of Madison since 2003. Rose also writes Ruth Kolpack was terminated because she wanted greater rights for women in the church. The reality is, per the bishop’s website: “Ms. Kolpack was let go because the Bishop is not confident she can or will present the complete and authentic teaching of the Church, the presentation of which he is responsible for in every parish in the diocese.”

Mr. Rose and the editors need to know that this would not pass muster at a real newspaper. Shame on The Badger Herald for being so amateurish that they published this absurd piece that shows shoddy research and incomprehensible logic. It reflects poorly on the newspaper and the university.

Susan Fani

Director of Communications

Catholic League

[email protected]