I am a firm proponent of the ordination of women. My theological, sociological and emotional pilgrimages to this position were a struggle, but thankfully brief. I spent six years with a woman copastor. I want my ordained sisters equally welcomed in all places. The truth is that they are not, and the use of juridical force, as represented by the decision on Canon III.8.1, will not make it so.

As I understand the presence and action of God in our church, in our time, it is the Spirit of God which moves us to ordain women. What began illegally in Philadelphia with a few women is now legal because God wills it so. To stand against that movement of the Spirit is sinful.

However, all efforts to force bishops, dioceses and congregations to welcome, accept and/or tolerate ordained women will not advance "our cause." Such force used against those who are conscientiously opposed to the ordination of women is also sinful. Sin exercised in the cause of God is still sin.

As God has changed me, so God is changing other persons and the church. I see no need for human political and canonical force to do what God is doing with infinitely more power and effect. A petition in Eucharistic Prayer C asks God to open our eyes to see your hand at work in the world about us." I pray that petition also for other proponents of the ordination of women.

(The Rev.) John Rawlinson

St James' Church

Oakland, Calif.