S1R,—As an Anglican I was thrilled by Dr. Charles L.
Warr's manner and approach to this subject. If Anglicans and Presbyterians are willing in all humility to learn from each other much-needed skills of the Ancient Church may be recovered to our mutual advantage.
We in the Church of England are sorry for our bishops, who are expected to develop increasing capacities as statesmen-cum-administrators-cum- pastors-cum-racing motorists. How can they hope to cope with their spiritual and pastoral responsibilities in view of their growing burdens and cares?
However, the Ancient British Church consecrated bishops not on a diocesan basis but according to the needs of missionary and evangelical enterprise. These bishops were happy to serve under presbyters (e.g. Columba) or boards of presbyters. A new type of bishop, 'pastoral and not monarchical in character,' would bring relief and strength to our overworked diocesans and suffragans.
We in the Church of England must consider soberly 'the nature of the Presbyterian eldership.' It may lead to the recovery of the ancient tradition of a fully responsible laity such as that at Milan who influenced the strange but wonderful appointment of Ambrose as Archbishop.—Yours faithfully,
VIC7OR H. BEATON
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