N. W. C. Fields has heard wrong on all counts. Most of this is just plain silly, but I've certainly heard it all before. People who make changes are lightning rods for all sorts of sputtering rage and outright demonization.

The Dean has stayed on three years past his expected retirement at the usual retirement age, to continue to shepherd the cathedral community through what are admittedly difficult times in the diocese. No one wants to see him go, no one has asked him to go. But he cannot put his well earned retirement on hold forever and now that a very fine priest has accepted the call to be our interim, the dean feels he can leave with confidence that we are in good hands.

As for the question about the absence of the Book of Common Prayer "in the pews", that would probably be a good subject for a longer conversation. The cathedral has opted, as have many other churches, especially cathedral churches where people from many backgrounds tend to show up, to use service leaflets with all that is needed for the service -- music, responses, etc. Since there are no actual pews with book racks, and since our worship has us moving through the space for the different parts of the liturgy, this works well and is visitor friendly. Not all Episcopalians prefer this choice, but it is a choice between two good principles, not a "good" and a "bad". People can worship comfortably without mastering the complexities of the BCP, which they can be introduced to AFTER they are "hooked."

Since we use the same service leaflet, with numerous musical choices, throughout a liturgical season, it is not terribly wasteful of paper, which would certainly be a valid objection.

Please understand that I am not saying this is the "right" way, only that it is one way churches do it and it is the best fit for our worship pattern.

I knew the topic of +Bennison would come up here eventually....let's not go there.

KYTOPA, makes sense to me now about the BCPs. Thanks!

__________________
"I think that anything that begins to give people a sense of their own worth and dignity is God."
John Shelby Spong

Congrats Phils 2008 World Champs!

KYTOPA, we have some pretty good sources and aren't emotionally invested in the whole thing. You sound like someone who drank the Kool-Aid.

As for the lack of BCPs, every other proper Episcopal cathederal we have been to actualy has them. It is sort of a brand identification thing, something the nutty limey professor doesn't get. It would be like going to a McDonalds that doesn't sell a Big Mac.

I can't help wondering why people who are so intent upon insulting and vilifying others are attracted to this forum.

The Dean is leaving. Why bother arguing about someone who is leaving?

PS- Episcopalians don't drink Kool-Aid. It's coffee. Always coffee. Or at least fine tea.

__________________
"I think that anything that begins to give people a sense of their own worth and dignity is God."
John Shelby Spong

Congrats Phils 2008 World Champs!

Coffee hour is our 8th sacrament.

We would welcome your visit anytime!

Thank you.

Father Jim+
Pastor
Saint Miriam

www.MySaintMiriam.org

Shame it must be in the city. The Well is around Street Road and Bustleton Ave. just outside the city. They have a Web site.
interdenominational. Do not preach hell and damnation. Do practice sharing and giving and helping others. You might be able to get someone to pick you up. Try it once. I think you will be well pleased.