In an attempt to obtain some reactions from around the church to the decision of the Court for the Trial of a Bishop [TLC, June 2], we attempted to reach persons randomly. Armed with some diocesan journals, we called members of the clergy, wardens, and other lay leaders.

We were surprised and disappointed when we called church offices. The first seven calls either were connected to an answering machine or there was no answer. In most cases, we found a recording announcing times of services. Out of the total of 11 calls to churches, only two reached someone "live." Six found answering machines and three were not answered. Realizing that many church budgets do not provide for secretarial help, we nevertheless felt there must be a better way.

Members of parishes usually know how to reach their clergy in time of crisis. If there's no one in the office, the home telephone number usually appears in Sunday bulletins, parish directories or newsletters, or sometimes on office answering machines. But what about persons who are not members of the parish? At a time when many persons are searching for a church home or looking for information, our congregations ought to be able to provide someone for them to engage in conversation during normal office hours. Perhaps members of the parish who are retired, unemployed, or work nights could volunteer to help with telephone calls. Surely we can do better.