The encyclical on ecumenism issued by Pope John Paul II [TLC, June 25] contains much for Episcopalians to admire. Above all, it speaks in strong language of a desire for increased ecumenical involvement. The pope points to the need for Roman Catholic bishops to take leadership roles in reviving the ecumenical movement in his church.

While Roman Catholic bishops in this country are burdened by declining vocations, fragmentation and budget problems, they have created the impression that ecumenism is a low priority item. Ecumenical officers and conferences have been dropped in budget cutbacks, and the bishops themselves are often infrequent participants in ecumenical activities. By giving ecumenism a higher priority, the pope is stressing to the bishops that they need to take the lead in this commitment.

Episcopalians and other Anglicans may well appreciate the pope's words that the Roman Catholic Church is irrevocably committed to the full communion of all baptized Christians and mutual recognition of baptism.

At the same time, there is disappointment that the encyclical failed to mention the joint agreement with Anglicans on the sacrament of the Eucharist or the most recent scholarship which would support Roman Catholic recognition of the validity of Anglican orders.

The willingness to increase ecumenism, the bold initiative and the confession of past sins against other Christians help to make the encyclical an admirable document.