George Lockwood's article is a wonderful combination of keen analysis, compassion, theological grounding, personal responsibility, and with a clear focus on how the church needs to conduct its business. And it is refreshingly non-judgmental.

I am a parish treasurer, recently eligible after 42 years as a parish priest. My Myers-Briggs profile, unlike his ESTP, is the typical clergy INFJ that he notes. However, as a treasurer I use the backup skills needed for careful accounting, full disclosure, insistence on internal controls and careful audit. Our diocesan business manager, Letty Collins, pushes us to do it right, often to the displeasure of some treasurers. I see some opportunities for mismanagement, and I have experienced parish treasurers who do not give the vestry the full, understandable information they need for making intelligent decisions. I have much to learn, and I have good help via parishioners with bookkeeping experience.

This is to say, George Lockwood sets out perceptive guidelines, and each of us has responsibility to insist that we exercise our stewardship carefully, lovingly, calling one another to account, with focus on the church's life and mission.

(The Rev.) RALPH E. MACY

Pittsboro, N.C.