A Reader Finds Fault in Architecture Review

I have to agree with the two critics who wrote letters to complain about architecture critic Aaron Betsky’s article on the Mormon Temple (Times, July 11): The review was mean-spirited and unnecessarily belittled my religion. Not very professional.

But once I got past the sarcasm, the story was interesting and insightful. The two letter-writers accused your reviewer of two sins: erroneously alleging that Joseph Smith received inspiration from Freemasonry, and drawing comparisons between our temples and Masonic lodges.

Dr. Reed Durham, former president of the Mormon History Assn., wrote in 1975: “There is absolutely no question in my mind that the Mormon ceremony which came to be known as the Endowment, introduced by Joseph Smith to Mormon Masons, had an immediate inspiration from Masonry. . . . It is also obvious that the Nauvoo Temple architecture was in part, at least, Masonically influenced. Indeed, it appears that there was an intentional attempt to utilize Masonic symbols and motifs.”

I would, however, ask your reviewer: Why detract from a good story by mocking my religion?

MICHAEL J. BARRETT

Sterling, Va.