Brought up in a denomination that does not baptize, I abandoned "church" in my late teens and became a seeker. Looking at all religions, I strongly resisted Christian orthodoxy. Over time, though, there was a change of direction (conversion?)

In my late 20s, a friend instructed me at length about Holy Communion. He was a college professor, department head, and contributor to Christian journals. One day we walked together to the altar of an Episcopal convent chapel, and I received Holy Communion.

Soon I was receiving regularly at a parish church, being further instructed and prepared for baptism by the rector, a serious and responsible priest (later bishop). Then, at age 30, I was baptized.

Today, 49 years later, I wonder what would have happened if I had been discouraged or excluded from receiving before baptism. I am not challenging Anglican tradition or Title 1.17.7, or the Rev. Richard Tumilty (TLC, Feb. 11). I have no answer in this matter of what he calls "cheap grace."

But I know my own story and I do wonder. If we believe that Holy Eucharist offers at least the potential to transform a human life, conveying to each participant something of the very life of Christ - what should we do?

Anne Cassel

Batesville, Ind.