It seems that almost every parishioner has responded, and as Rector I want to express grateful thanks. There is no doubt that the Parish Hall is very central to our social life, and a special place for us. I noted that in making this appeal the Vestry wanted to reverse past habits of using our reserves whenever we had a major capital or school expense. This appeal marks a new way of doing things, and I am sure everyone has responded to that. I am very encouraged.

VESTRY CONSULTATION
On Saturday, July 15^th, the Vestry retreated from the heat of San Diego to Christ the King, Alpine for a consultation. This was the first in my time as Rector, and hopefully will be an annual event. We started with Mass at 10 am in that beautiful church, founded as a mission of our parish. We then adjourned to the parish room for talk, laughter and sharing of ideas. We had wonderful food to fortify us, and finished well before the scheduled time. The main item of discussion was the mission of our parish, following the closure of the Elementary School. We felt that part of our mission should focus on the poor and disadvantaged in our community. I spoke of this in my sermons on July 16 and 23. The Senior warden writes about our plans on pages 5/6.

NEW PRESIDING BISHOP
At the June General Convention of our church a woman bishop was elected Presiding Bishop. Although this was greeted with excitement by the members of that convention, it has caused dismay to many Episcopalians, and enormous problems within our Anglican Communion. I was in London at the time, and the newspapers were not very flattering to the Episcopal Church! The Archbishop of Canterbury is in favor of women bishops - but he was most guarded in his comments and expressed disappointment at the decision.

Upon my return many people were anxious to hear my re