In another thread, it was mentioned that the Diocese of Oregon has just 3,000 members. Nationwide, we have fewer than 2,000,000 members in 105 Dioceses.

Does this seem like an incredible waste of precious resources? The cost of maintaining 105 Diocesan offices and attendant Bishops and staffs could be reduced by halving the number of Diocese and redirecting those funds to the real work of the Church. Does this make sense to anyone?

It makes excellent sense.

As for confirmation, I see no theological reason why the priest cannot administer the sacrament.  In the EOC, the priest administers charismation / confirmation with holy oils blest by the bishop.

Bishops ordain and consecrate chrism. As far as having priests confirm folks, there might be an outcry about Anglican tradition. And in any sense, I don't know what good that will do by giving that power to priests. Dioceses like the one mentioned need to merge. Some people are going to have to put the mitres down. Bishops might have to travel more. Does there need to be Bishop Suffergans? That's just more compensation to pay out. My advice, just make a bishop for the whole state.  1 Bishop per state. Have confirmations in the cathedrals maybe 2-3 times a year. Make them be flying bishops.

If Pennsylvania had one bishop, we would never see him or her. In fact I doubt we would have any connection to the diocese at all. Prior to my election as Senior Warden we've had amost no connection other than the bishop's annual visit. When we took three to Erie for confirmation/reception at Easter Vigil last year, several others went along for their first visit to the cathedral. Even cradles have never had any reason to visit the cathedral or have anything to do with the diocese. This has a major effect on attitudes toward the diocesan assessment. When we were between priests, several high payers dropped out because they resented the assessment which they believed was too high and for which we were not getting any help. As far as our parish is concerned, the diocese is an unnecessary evil. That attitude will raise its ugly head this fall when we petition to become a mission. I will appreciate prayers and armor but I'm prepared.

Mar 29, 2012 -- 8:19PM, Nino0814 wrote:

Mar 29, 2012 -- 5:23PM, GRobit625 wrote:

Make them be flying bishops.

I agree!  If it could work for RCC nuns it could work for our bishops: www.fairfaxunderground.com/forum/file.ph...

Ooooooooooooook.............