Not many people expected Vatican II, yet it happened. Current leaders can warp Vatican II at the edges but they can not overturn what happened. I know it is discouraging to see such dogmatic leadership in the RCC, but I guess I am the eternal optimist. Do I think there will be big changes in my lifetime—No!, but neither did my Grandparents who understood the holiness of Pope John XXIII. I don’t think we need religion for spirituality. What Religion can be good for is structure such as schools and religion classes for all ages, and socialization. It seems to fail miserably whenever it delves into philosophy, technology, science even more developed theology. Are the Episcopals really any better– I am not sure as a group that they really are. I once was on an Episcopal School Board and saw plenty of clerical narcissism just as I did when I was on the Archdiocese Committee for Education. I believe you once pointed me toward a quiet inner self. It is hard for me in the face of so much dogmatism which is truly immaturity, but out of inner peace much good comes. It informs our action. Don’t again worry about the Bishops leading you, they will eventually follow all the people like you and Hope.

Peace and love to you, Ami