The Rt. Rev. Stephen H. Jecko
Bishop of Florida
325 Market Street
Jacksonville, FL  32202-2796

Dear Steve:

As I said in my October 9 letter to the clergy, "the Presiding Bishop's ministry extends to the whole church and transcends divergent points of view."  Echoing the words of Archbishop Helder Camara, I said that I belong to all and intended to come to the Diocese of Florida with an open heart and as your brother in Christ.  I am saddened by the interpretation you have placed on my desire to meet with the clergy and preside at the ordination and consecration of the bishop-coadjutor.

It is out of my consideration and concern for him and his family that I have asked the Rt. Rev. Charles Jenkins, President of the Province IV House of Bishops, to serve as chief consecrator in my stead.  The Diocese of Florida and its bishop-coadjutor will be much in my prayers in the days ahead.

It is my hope that I might visit the Diocese of Florida at some future time when there is less rancor.