Letters: Alternative to the council's Plan Change 5

It was alarming to read correspondence from Reynold Macpherson where he warned of an impending fascist state in Rotorua.

The concern was due to a feeling of deja vu. To clarify my concern I immediately headed to the archive to access my journals.

My worst fears were realised when I read an entry from November 1923, referencing reporting on the The Acerbo Law which saw Mussolini seize power of the Italian parliament, the entry contained a clipping from a young Giovanni in the Il Giornale d'Italia.

Giovanni wrote the first hints of an incoming fascist state was when the council proposed the number of signs on Rome's streets were becoming too much and the public were asked for feedback on designating what could be erected.

In light of this startling coincidence I implore residents of Rotorua to submit to council in opposition to Plan Change 5 (PC5)

In alternative to PC5, I propose that instead of spending $500,000 on "art" at the Hemo roundabout, that the funds are instead used to erect a large yellow neon sign displaying a rolling feed of political commentary from the RDRR, along with a loudspeaker broadcasting an audio loop of the Orewa Speech by Aotearoa's utmost expert on democratic issues, Dr. Don Brash.

For if the council will not allow "freedom of expression" in the form of citizens ramming political commentary down our throats via signs here, there and everywhere, then like Reynold Macpherson, I see no other future other than a fascist state.

RYAN GRAY
Rotorua

Concept altered beyond recognition

In reply to the letter by Rev Alex Czerwonka (December 29) let me point out one or two errors in your argument. Jesus was a Rabbi, he did not preach in massive structures heavily decorated and costing millions of dollars, he preached in the fields and on the beaches.

He did not ask his followers to dress up in fine clothing or to collect vast sums of money from the people; Jesus did not wish his disciples to own multiple amounts of property and I am sure - having read the Bible - that he would be horrified to learn that the doors of all his churches were closed at night to keep out the homeless!

Christianity was founded to teach people a better way of life, how to care and succour the poor and helpless, it was not there for the benefit of Popes, Bishops or any of the hierarchy who believe they are better than anyone else.

There is nothing today in common with the preaching or teachings of Jesus. I am not a practising Christian because the original concept of Christianity has been altered beyond all recognition.

There is nothing in the Bible to authenticate the existence of the Christ Church Cathedral or any other edifice of that nature.

If you want to preach Christianity then find a field or a park; give-don't take, and if you must preach in the confines of a lofty building then leave the doors open so that the homeless and have-nots may find comfort and security.

JIM ADAMS
Rotorua