The Rev. James Cravens [TLC, July 23] paints with a broad brush using words with unwarranted abandon in order to make his intended point. (A point that is invalid, by the way.)

To say that the bishops in question disregarded the church's unity, faith and polity is far beyond the pale of truth of what Bishops Allison and Dickson accomplished. They violated only the polity of the church and that only for the reason of preserving the unity and faith of the church.

Bishop Spong, on the other hand, (and many other bishops along with him) has subverted the unity and faith of the church with deliberation and disregard for the consequences for those over whom God has assigned him pastoral oversight and care. Saul will fare better before the throne of judgment because he was deranged and unable to make rational decisions. I will not suggest that Bishop Spong is not rational and intentional.

The only point of possible comparison would be in breaking church polity, and the reasons for doing so place Bishops Allison and Dickson worlds apart from the havoc being wreaked upon the Anglican Communion by Bishop Spong and his followers. It is irresponsible to place them in the same sentence in discussion. Painting with broad, sweeping strokes and platitudes from the common pool of misinformation has no valid place in this debate.

(The Rev.) James F. Graner, SSC

Larned, Kan.