William Cowan (Oxford Mail, September 20) asserts that I do not envisage God as a Creator who is 'above all things'.

This is true, for I find the concept of an omnipotent and benevolent, supreme person incompatible with the terrible, senseless suffering in this world.

What I do believe is that there is a divine but limited will within each one of us, ever striving for fuller expression.

This immanence evolving Deity is, surely, a basic fact. For we have only to penetrate beneath the surface of our minds to perceive the infinite Life Force welling up from fathomless depths.

I feel myself to be wholly dependent on this creative power, and that we are all manifestations of One Being who is present in every living creature. Our sense of separation is an illusion.

Atheism is obsolete. The real issue is how shall we form a concept of God acceptable to modern minds.

Can we not all at least agree that the word 'God' denotes the oneness of life and the unity of humankind with nature?

For only by realising this truth, which transcends all race and sectarian divisions will Man survive to achieve peace and fulfilment.

GRAHAM BUTLER Banbury Road Bicester