Coughlin Observers Saw Only Harmless Affection

The story “O.C. Priest Accused by Five Ex-Choir Members” (Feb. 10) is a sad reflection of our society. Everyone has become an expert on morality, abnormality and righteousness. And now the Catholic Church--instead of teaching its sheep the nuances of love--throws the first stone. I am disgusted.

Father (Richard T.) Coughlin is a genuinely affectionate teacher who has served his church for nearly seven decades. A champion.

I had an opportunity to observe him over several days when writing a story about the All-American Boys Chorus in the late ‘70s. What he did was make every boy feel special and encourage him to reach his full potential as part of the choir.

No wonder the chorus became an Orange County success story. That encouragement included hugs.

I am fully aware that my writing the word hugs can be interpreted as an M word. And I’m not surprised. Many men do not differentiate between affection and sex, or don’t understand the difference.

Could it be that they never were hugged by their own fathers?

ELKE EASTMAN

Santa Ana