Women deacons, Hochul, Mamdani, wind projects, Tom Hanks' canceled award

Women deacons may preserve unity

It’s unlikely that Pope Leo XIV would approve the ordination of women to serve as deacons in the Catholic Church because such a change in church practice would not match Leo’s wish to be more of a “unifying pope” — in contrast to the sometimes feather-ruffling leadership style of his predecessor [“Will women get new role as deacons?,” Long Island, Sept. 15].

The smart money, the article suggests, is on further inaction on such a potentially hot-topic issue in the interest of preserving ecclesial unity.

But why do we Catholics so readily assume that true unity is somehow served by ignoring the just and truth-based complaints of the persons who have always done the bulk of the day-to-day work in the church while being excluded from participation in ordained ministry?

With graduate degrees in theology and clinical psychology, I ask: Is such a position admirable prudence or, rather, evidence of a regrettable poverty of imagination and lack of faith in the wisdom to call both women and men to sacramental service?

— Paul Ginnetty, Smithtown

Hochul on tightrope with endorsement

By endorsing Democratic socialist New York City mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani, Gov. Kathy Hochul confirms what some already suspected: her centrist image is a pose, discarded when the activist wing applies pressure [“Hochul backs Mamdani,” News, Sept. 15].

But the story is even bigger than New York politics. What Hochul is doing is the same balancing act that Democrats across the country face: pretending to be moderates in rhetoric while quietly ceding ground to the far left on substance. That may pass in deep-blue states, but the national electorate — especially suburban moderates who often decide elections — will likely not be so forgiving in 2026 and 2028.

Hochul’s giving in under pressure shows the Democrats’ biggest weakness: They cannot say no to their left flank.

— Todd L. Pittinsky, Port Jefferson

LI wind project may be in danger, too

With Revolution Wind offshore wind farm in President Donald Trump’s crosshairs, it’s becoming increasingly concerning that Sunrise Wind, its sister project off the coast of Long Island, may also be at risk too [“Suit over wind farm halt,” News, Sept. 5].

Last month, the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management, under Trump’s Department of the Interior Secretary Doug Burgum, halted Revolution Wind’s offshore work, citing “national security” concerns. Burgum cited the prospect of “drone swarm” attacks and radar interference as among the reasons.

These “national security” concerns are unsubstantiated and appear to stem from Trump’s opposition to these clean energy projects that he frequently cites as ugly and a scam.

With Long Island especially vulnerable to the rising sea, which has already eroded beaches, flooded our homes and threatened the freshwater aquifer, supporting green energy projects has never been more important or more critical to our continued survival. Gov. Kathy Hochul needs to stand up for Sunrise Wind and protect the future of this project just as she did for Empire Wind.

— Karen C. Higgins, Massapequa Park

Disabled appreciate ban on self-serve gas

Yes, Huntington’s self-service ban on gas stations initially was started for safety reasons [“Huntington’s self-serve ban unique on LI,” Long Island, Sept. 7]. So, why should the ban continue?

Try pumping gas while using a wheelchair. Many people use a walker not only for walking but for balance. Many find this task a challenge. Other disabilities can present a similar problem.

Huntington became aware of these needs and continued the ban. Huntington perhaps should be praised for caring about all of its residents, including those with disabilities.

— Marianne Iannaccone, Dix Hills

It’s sad to see award denied to Hanks

I am dismayed that the U.S. Military Academy at West Point has canceled the award ceremony to give actor and veterans advocate Tom Hanks the prestigious Sylvanus Thayer Award on Sept. 25 “West Point cancels award ceremony for Hanks,” News, Sept. 7].

It is sad that the president and CEO of the West Point Association of Graduates apparently bowed to political pressure to cancel this award with only weeks to go. Hanks had been selected in June for the award, given to an “outstanding citizen” who did not attend West Point but exemplifies the academy’s ideals of “Duty, Honor, Country.”

However, in three months, the mission has become for the cadets to lead, fight and win. Because Hanks supported former President Joe Biden, a rival candidate to President Donald Trump, it appears the West Point academy backed away from the “Honor” part of their ideals.

Shame on those who voted to cancel the presentation of this award. It is like a slap in the face to Hanks. I have lost much respect for this institution.

— Carol Walsh, St. James