I am perplexed by comments in the editorial concerning the resignation of Bishop Doss [TLC, April 11] and especially the statements that the Diocese of New Jersey was in distress over several issues and unable to respond to the pressing needs of reconciliation, before Bishop Doss arrived, or after.

First, the editorial did not raise any specific events or patterns of behavior that proves deeply embedded problems of clericalism, parochialism, congregationalism, homophobia, or racial intolerance. It sounds as though the editorial merely parroted Bishop Doss' statements, which have likewise yet to have specific illustrations raised to prove his allegations.

Bishop Mellick Belshaw, with whom I served for six years as a missioner in Trenton, offered substantial diocesan resources to the outreach and mission of the church and their communities, throughout the diocese. He continued to lift up and personify the reconciling love of his faith, and his Savior, in all parts of his episcopate. Clergy were clergy, and unique in their likes, associations and tempers, but they were able to work together across the differences of their personality or culture. They were better than most, and no less able than the clergy I've met in the three dioceses I have served.

Bishop Doss has many personal issues, which he seemed unable to resolve, regardless of the number of times he spoke for the need for reconciliation and healing, seemingly not able to move beyond merely externalizing his beliefs or opinions. I would recommend that if TLC desires to continue the line of opinion suggested in the editorial, it search deeper into the life of the Diocese of New Jersey.

(The Rev.) John A. Weatherly

Alexandria, Va.