St. Bartholomew's Episcopal Church

Perhaps if candidates for ordination had several "360" reviews over the course of 3 years. These may help the church understand who is capable of handling and learning from feedback; and might also indicate who has the right characteristics for the priesthood. The ordinand, and the church, could select a dozen or so people to fill out a questionnaire about their perceptions of the cleric.

We got a phone call yesterday.

"Are you St. Barts?" said the fellow. "I'm calling from Texas. And I have some things I want to say to you."

"Can I help you?" said my adorable office manager, who is one of the most charming people you will ever meet.

"I can't believe you are doing this."

"Excuse me? We are doing something? We are having a chili cook off in July, if you are interested in competing."

"No, I'm not calling about that. How could you?"

"Is something wrong sir?" She is confused, but is always smiling and is quite an optimistic sort.