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The public’s right to “no”

In this Oct. 5, 1960 AP file photo, Jacqueline Kennedy poses at her typewriter where she writes her weekly "Candidate's Wife" column in her Georgetown home in Washington. (Associated Press)
In this Oct. 5, 1960 AP file photo, Jacqueline Kennedy poses at her typewriter where she writes her weekly "Candidate's Wife" column in her Georgetown home in Washington. (Associated Press)

Jackie Kennedy wrote letters to a priest years ago and now the letters may be auctioned off to a highest bidder? Is nothing sacred? Apparently not.

Just like attorney-client privilege, a priest has the moral responsibility not to divulge the conversations a person has with him. If a person seeks advice or confesses misdeeds or simply confides in him - no matter if the conversation happens under the known “Seal of Confession” or not - the words are sacred and private.

Making money from Jackie Kennedy’s personal communication with a priest suggests a profound lack of character on the part of the sellers as well as the priest who saved the letters.

Sometimes the right to know means "no!" to writings.

(S-R archive photo: In this Oct. 5, 1960 AP file photo, Jacqueline Kennedy poses at her typewriter.)

Spokesman-Review features writer Rebecca Nappi, along with writer Catherine Johnston of Olympia, Wash., discuss here issues facing aging boomers, seniors and those experiencing serious illness, dying, death and other forms of loss.