RECENTLY there has been a lot of publicity about the Pope's influence in regenerating the Roman Catholic Church while at the same time the retired Archbishop Carey warns of a Church of England decline.

As a Roman Catholic I am delighted that we now have a Pope who is showing such simple humility in carrying out his ministry and making Christians reassess their values, but fortunately he is not alone.

I live in a small Glou­cestershire village where there is a Church of England vicar, Rev. Tony Jones, is of the same hue. His church services are well attended and his sermons are full of humour as he leads his parishioners to God.

He never pushes his beliefs or boasts about his work, yet his simple goodness makes all who meet him, of whatever religion, remember what Christianity should be about – honouring God and loving your neighbour.

It might sound bad, but in addition to his church services, he visits the local pubs and talks to everyone.

When I first met him I asked why he went to the pubs. His reply was:"Did Jesus only preach in the Temple? Where else can I meet all my parishioners and find out their needs." He rarely "talks religion" but he lives it.

He is a people person, funny but not afraid to challenge bad behaviour in such a way that people listen.

He is respected by all and is not slow in using his popularity to quickly summon help for anyone in need.

The Church of England is not doomed while they had ministers like him.

– David Warren, Woolaston.