Balkan Religious distinctions

The article "UN Recognition of Macedonia Is Key to Restraining Serbs," Oct. 7, is right on target.

The Republic of Macedonia must be recognized by the United Nations to maintain its independence from Serbia, which wants to control it as it has done since 1913, when Macedonia was divided among Serbia, Greece, and Bulgaria after the Balkan wars. Not to do so is opening the door to a second Balkan war.

Unfortunately, there was an error in the otherwise comprehensive story. Most Macedonians are Eastern Orthodox Christians, not Muslims as reported in the story. It is this difference in religion that could spark the civil war the author describes in the article. Virginia N. Surso, Fort Wayne, Ind., Macedonian Patriotic Organization

Letters are welcome. Only a selection can be published, subject to condensation, and none acknowledged. Please address them to "Readers Write," One Norway St., Boston, MA 02115.