The tragic death of Bishop David Johnson of Massachusetts [TLC, Jan. 29], while it may not be directly attributed to the pressures of the ministry of bishop, brings to mind the tremendous strain under which bishops function. The pastoral duties of the episcopate sometimes are cast aside temporarily as bishops act as chief executive officers, judges or decision-makers.

Most of us see our bishops every year or two when they come to our parishes to confirm, baptize, preach and celebrate the Eucharist. Such occasions are usually joyous and sometimes include meetings with wardens, vestries and key parish committees. Then the bishop disappears, often returning to the diocesan office where a pile of mail awaits, frequently containing unfortunate news.

When we don't see our bishops, chances are they are involved in making an important decision, a decision which will make a major impact on someone's life: Whether to close a congregation; whether divorced persons should be remarried; whether a particular person should be ordained; how to respond to charges of sexual misconduct against a member of the clergy; whom to appoint to a particular committee or mission congregation; what to say to a member of the media about a current issue.

Our bishops are under tremendous pressure. They are likely to face criticism from members of their dioceses, no matter how they decide to settle a particular issue, or regardless of what they may say in a public statement. Bishops need days off, sabbaticals, friends, and others concerned about their well bring. Above all, our bishops, especially the Presiding Bishop, need our prayers daily. May God's grace strengthen our bishops, that they might provide godly oversight to the life of this church.