Following the report of the situation in the Diocese of Long Island [TLC, Nov. 17], which comes in the wake of the embezzlement in the national church treasurer's office, it appears that at a significant level, our church is strained and stressed to the point of crisis. The current debates over human sexuality and the decline in giving to the national mission are other symptoms of a church clearly in confusion and conflict.

I assume that if a local parish was in a similar situation, no bishop would allow that parish to enter into a search process for a new rector. Dysfunctional communities often bring forth dysfunctional leadership. That parish would likely enter into a transitional period with a strong and experienced interim rector who would assist them in healing, self-study and reorganization. Eventually, after considerable time, a search process would begin.

In light of this, I propose that the scheduled election of the next Presiding Bishop be postponed and that a search for an interim Presiding Bishop, for a term of two or three years, begin immediately. The worldwide Anglican Communion is blessed with many gifted bishops, and I am sure there are many who would feel called to such a ministry. Archbishop Desmond Tutu is an obvious choice. I am sure he could further our struggle against racism, which is the most insidious problem facing our church.

I confess that I do not know if the constitution and canons allow for such an arrangement, but it is surely worth investigating.

In no way do I wish this proposal to be a criticism of the current Presiding Bishop, a man whom I love and admire. I believe the entire Episcopal Church is responsible for our current state of affairs, and that we all need a time of recommitment and discernment of vision. Such a time is difficult to obtain when focused and preoccupied with an election.

(The Very Rev.) James R. Leo

Christ Church Cathedral

Cincinnati, Ohio