BEING somewhat less than enamoured by religious matters and by the insistence of some theologians that man was made in God’s image I have a lot of sympathy with Terry Banfield’s letter (Your Say, July 17).


An intelligent person, as many atheists often are, Terry surely knew that certain religious sects can be overbearing and some even become prepared to murder for their sickening beliefs. So, what’s so terrible about some church people being rather silly, is that not often the case?
We all feel misunderstood at times; most of us simply don’t worry too much about it. To put it into childish words,  “Sticks and stones will break my bones, but words will never hurt me”.
I have to admit though that I’ve never heard of an atheist wanting to punish or to kill someone for their beliefs and I hope that I never will.
That is to be greatly admired.
So why be so touchy Terry when a wry smile and a gentle shaking of the head is so much more effective than all of their words?
Walt Jackson
Llantrisant, Usk