Recently at a church conference center, I picked up a brochure on the upcoming National Gathering of the Episcopal Women's Caucus, Sept. 30-Oct. 1 at the Remington Hotel in Fort Worth, Texas. It contained information on the keynote speakers as well as the overall program and accommodations. What jarred me, however, was the last paragraph:

"Female Priests: You are especially encouraged to come to the Gathering. Your presence will be most meaningful in Fort Worth! Bring a stole and plan to take part in the Sunday Eucharist. Remember - the canons allow a priest to function in another diocese for up to two months without being licensed."

I'm a supporter of the ordination of women as well as a supporter of clarity of theology and polity. Bishop Iker's opposition to the ordination of women is, whether we agree with him or not, a recognized theological position held by a majority of Christian communions in the catholic tradition. This challenge to his jurisdiction in Fort Worth is troubling.

Our polity is based on our theology and is nothing more than that arrangement of authority whereby power is distributed and the work of the church carried out. As Episcopalians, we are heirs of the Anglican concept of a diocese consisting of geographical parishes and people - areas of Christian community - where the bishop is entrusted with pastoral responsibilities to the people of Christ.

Just as bishops may not exercise episcopal ministry except where canonically resident or licensed by the diocesan bishop (Canon III.24.2), priests also aren't "free agents" who exercise their ministries apart from the diocesan and parochial systems by which power is dispersed. That is our polity. That's why a priest may not function in a congregation or parish without the permission of the local authorities (Canon III.14.4.a.l) nor for more than two months without license by the bishop of the diocese (Canon III.16.2). Has a local rector in Fort Worth given permission for this invitation to be issued to female priests?

The issue here is not women nor is it turf. It is about theology, polity, and good manners. Until such time as the position of the Bishop of Fort Worth changes or is outlawed, I think that such a public call to disobey him is uncalled for and un-Anglican and displays a self-centered ignorance that does little more than make the church unappealing. Where is Christ in this?

(The Rev.) E. Allen Coffey

Emmanuel Church

Richmond, Va.