From the Dean of Durham and Mrs
Jenny Sadgrove
Sir, - "Does Bishop Welby have the right credentials for
Archbishop? Vote on . . ." (News, 16
November). What purpose can possibly be served by putting this
fatuous question to the vote?
The Bishop of Durham is a remarkably
gifted leader and Archbishop-designate. Putting his credentials to
a referendum is hardly designed to foster confidence in what we are
sure is going to be a distinguished ministry in this complex and
demanding post. It would be better, surely, to solicit prayer for
him and his family. We thought better of the Church Times
than this kind of tabloid behaviour.
MICHAEL SADGROVE
JENNY SADGROVE
The Deanery, The College
Durham DH1 3EQ
Be it fatuous or not, we thought
the readers might like an opportunity to express a view on whether
an archbishop needs to have been a diocesan bishop for a greater
length of time. A significant yes vote, for example, might help to
alter the criteria on which future appointments are made.
Editor
From Mr John Pockett
Sir, - We all wish the Bishop of Durham well in his new and
very demanding ministry as Archbishop of Canterbury, but will
someone please, please show him how to wear his mitre properly? It
certainly shouldn't be worn pushed back on his head like a tea
cosy.
The photographs and footagethat were
used after the announcement of his appointment made him look likea
characterfrom a downmarket comedy programme. There are enough
people out there more than ready to laugh at the Church of England
without any further encouragement from its leader's episcopal
attire.
JOHN POCKETT
1 Lewis Terrace
Pontypridd CF37 2AF