Unaccepted bishop

SIR – Bishop Philip North was not “hounded out” (Letters, March 11). He chose to withdraw from his nomination as Bishop of Sheffield because many in the diocese – both men and women – believe that the views he holds are unacceptable.

It is unfortunate that in many areas of Christian faith and practice, women are still regarded as second-class citizens, unworthy of recognition as priests.

What makes the situation even worse is the implication by the Archbishop of York, John Sentamu, among others, that those same men and women are in the wrong for not accepting Bishop North and his discriminatory views, no matter how “spirit-filled and mission-focused” he may be.

It is a pity that the panel who selected Bishop North did not take into account the fact that a third of the ordained priesthood in the Sheffield Diocese are women. Mary Cobbold Sheffield, South Yorkshire SIR – In religion, “liberal” has taken on a new meaning. It describes those unable to tolerate views different from their own, who are prepared to form intimidating pressure groups to suppress voices that do not harmonise with theirs.

In the past, the generous and fair-minded have yielded to their campaigning, believing it only just to give them recognition. But once “liberals” have gained the upper hand, they allow only token expression of other views.

Bishop North has for a second time been pilloried for holding traditionalist views about Christian ministry – views that the Church of England allows to be embraced.

He is a gifted pastor with a record of being accepting and supportive of those who differ from him. But this is not enough. His witness is too uncomfortable, and so his head has to be presented on a Sheffield platter.

Whoever now steps forward to lead that diocese might feel a little uncomfortable. John Capel Reading, Berkshire