The series of reports of diocesan conventions, titled "Around the Dioceses," [TLC, Nov. 19] really caught my attention, and I am not sure if your editor even realized the mayhem that was being published.

We learn that the Diocese of Western Michigan, at its convention, voted "to urge members and congregations to work to end state-sponsored gambling and gaming, and to be aware of the inappropriateness of using gambling as church fundraisers."

In the very next column, adjacent to the article about Western Michigan, the Diocese of Nevada reports having had its diocesan convention at Harrah's Hotel and Casino in Reno!

These articles are headlined by a picture of a "Clown Eucharist" where a priest (and others) dressed as clowns conducted a eucharistic service at the convention of the Diocese of Southeast Florida in Fort Lauderdale.

The Episcopal Church - What hath God wrought?

(The Rev.) Robin Courtney, Jr.

St. Bede's Church

Manchester, Tenn.