From Stuart Chillingworth
Sir, - Now that there is a proposal the maximum age is to be
increased for people serving on juries from 70 to 75, is it time
for the Church to give some consideration to increasing the age
when clergy must retire from being either diocesan or suffragan
bishops, or incumbents of parishes, to 75? This would answer the
recent case in the Liverpool diocese (News, 9 and
16
August).
STUART CHILLINGWORTH
Cheyne Court, 43 Glengall Road
Woodford Green, Essex IG8 0DN
From Julie Bacon
Sir, - After reading of the difficulties experienced by some
incumbents in their relationships with retired clergy in their
parishes (Letters,
13 September), I now feel I understand the reason for the
emphasis given by training institutions to developing the skills of
theological reflection - an emphasis that at times has felt like
being hit over the head repeatedly with a hammer. Presumably part
of its purpose is to develop more priests who understand that
"their" ministry fits within that of the Church overall, and have
the humility and discernment to recognise how this can best be
lived out in their particular context, rather than demand what
suits them (though lack of self-awareness and the broader picture
is far from the sole preserve of the clergy).
My experience as a lay person of the ministry of retired clergy
has been overwhelmingly positive.
JULIE BACON (Ordinand)
12 Grange Avenue, Ilkley
West Yorkshire LS29 8NU
