New Low for Martinez?

How low can you go? I believe we’ve seen new depths reached in a recent article by columnist Al Martinez on God, Jess, Hal, in which he satirizes the work and integrity of Hal Bernson while at the same time taking a potshot at God.

I’m not worried about God. He has been doing a great job of remaining God without our help. The fact that more people worship Him in one week then attend all sports events in one year is evidence that I’m not alone in that belief. Even the sacrilegious remarks of a columnist like Mr. Martinez will do little to undermine the sovereignty of our creator and sustainer.

But what really bothers me is the attack upon Hal Bernson, a person entrusted with the awesome responsibility of maintaining order and promoting the good of our city. No cute or witty satire can mask the unsupported accusations and scathing undertone directed at Hal.

Talk about politics! This columnist and your paper, from what I read, are the ones attempting to play God, taking a poke and giving a jab in order to discredit a reputable councilman whose record shows fairness and caring.

I, for one, have seen a far different Hal Bernson from that pictured in your column. And to many of us here in the Valley he is a sensitive man giving countless hours to listen to and support the rich and the religionists and those who are neither. Maybe for a change Mr. Martinez should mention some GOOD NEWS and pontificate upon the many positive activities being carried out by God, by Jess and by Hal. Maybe then his column would not appear so damning by so many.

THE REV. ED KRUEGER

Granada Hills

Krueger is pastor of Our Savior’s First Lutheran Church .