Faith-based spread.

As a new member of AU, I really look forward to seeing each issue of Church & State. I read with interest your article, "White House Report On Faith-Based Initiative Aims For State Boost" ("People & Events," February Church & State).

Coincidentally, a recent cover story of our local alternative weekly, City, was "Leap of Faith." The cover showed a cross made of pieces of U.S. paper currency with "In God We Trust" on the cross-piece.

According to the article, the Monroe County Executive has created an Office of Faith-based and Community Initiatives. Hope Initiatives, an offshoot of a large downtown church, Bethel Christian Fellowship, and a few other religious non-profits, stand to benefit.

Apparently, Monroe County is the only county in the nation to take such a step. A surprise move, with no prior attempt to obtain public input, this is clearly a step to obtain federal money, which will buy services for fewer dollars than the county social services department needs. An echo of President Bush's "Let the private sector do it."

The new office's primary function is to act as a liaison between local groups seeking funds and federal sources, but the county office looks toward having its own "compassionate care" fund to distribute in the future.

Assurance is given from the office head, Mel Walczak, a priest, that no proselytizing will occur, at least as long as a mentoring relationship lasts. Beyond that, "things could be different." The last part suggests that a mentor-turned-friend might urge church attendance.

Byrna Weir

Rochester, N.Y.

Church & State welcomes letters to the editor. Although not all correspondence can be published, readers' opinions are appreciated. The editorial staff reserves the right to edit all letters for brevity and clarity.