I want to convey some good news to authors White and Kew [TLC, July 2] and to TLC's reading audience. Almost point-by-point the "future" recommended for the seminaries is our "now." We are linked to and developing further the "emerging technologies" of communication that will facilitate more widespread and economical contact with parishes and dioceses than flying faculty around the country.

While each seminary maintains high standards of basic theological education and an absolutely necessary Anglican formation, we have, each in consultation with all, intentionally developed specialties to meet "diverse needs of the church's mission." Bexley Hall, for instance, has inaugurated a focus on preparation for the ministry of the church in small communities in addition to our traditional emphasis on black church studies. Each seminary can point to a vitally important specialty as well, and all are committed to significant forms of lay theological education.

It is also important to highlight the findings of the Board for Theological Education's 1992-93 "Seminary Faculty Survey" (General Convention "Blue Book 1994," p. 507). The lay-clergy ratio of our seminary faculties is 1 to 3, thus lending important diversity of perspective to education and formation for ministry. Some 85 percent of seminary faculty are actively involved in the life of their parishes and serve the mission of the church on diocesan and national levels as well.

In one form or another, each of the accredited seminaries is focused on shaping an effective future for theological education. As we work with each other through the Council of Deans and individually in consultation with our trustees, alumni/ae, supporting parishes and dioceses, we welcome all partners to the discussion.

(The Very Rev.) WILLIAM H. PETERSEN

Dean, Bexley Hall

Rochester, N.Y.