n his Viewpoint article [TLC, Aug. 19], Tory Baucum suggests that the AMiA become an Anglican missionary order, similar to the Roman Catholic orders of Jesuits or Franciscans. He proposes the order become accountable to the Archbishop of Canterbury.

If the AMiA operated as the Roman Catholic orders do, there would be no controversies in the Episcopal Church today. Whenever the Jesuits do parish work, either in a diocesan-sponsored parish or in a Jesuit parish, they always operate under the jurisdiction of the local diocesan bishop. It is my understanding that under the canons of the church, they may work only in a diocese with the permission of the local bishop. If this is what the author is suggesting, I heartily agree with his proposal.

(The Rev.) Alma Beck

Trinity Church

Huntington, W.Va.