I have read with great interest the interchange of letters to the editor from Fr. Trumbore and Fr. Cromey [TLC, Dec 22] and Fr. Rule [TLC, Jan. 12] concerning the story in Penthouse magazine which reported on certain conduct that may have occurred by priests in the Diocese of Long Island [TLC, Nov. 17].

It should be obvious to all that the article contained serious allegations which in its wisdom the Diocese of Long Island has chosen to investigate by means of an independent investigation conducted by the standing committee of the diocese as overseen by Bishop O'Kelley Whitaker and an outside law firm, Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom.

If it is determined that these activities included promiscuity, deviant sexual behavior, abusive behavior, desecration of holy space, betrayal of sacred trust, misuse of parish finances, violation of criminal and immigration laws by these priests, then it is likely that disciplinary action will need to be taken against them. As a result, the church owes it to itself to conduct a thorough, independent, and speedy investigation into these very serious allegations. Importantly, what may have happened in the Diocese of Long Island is a question of behavior, and all worthy Episcopalians should be appalled by this alleged behavior of its priests, no matter whether the activity is homosexual or heterosexual. This should not be confused with the current debate in the church about blessing same-sex committed unions.

John H. Works, Jr. Chancellor, Diocese of Long Island Garden City, N.Y.