Fr. Larry A. Snyder, rector of the 700-member traditionalist congregation near Philadelphia, said that during a meeting in the bishop's office, in April, Bennison said that Jesus was not the only Messiah, nor the unique means of salvation for the world; and that each of us becomes a Messiah.

"Your teachings are in conflict with the biblical message, and therefore do not carry the power of the Gospel, nor present the faith and worship of the Book of Common Prayer as expressing traditional Anglican theology with its appeal to Scripture, the Creeds and the Councils of the undivided Church. Although you have been elected to an apostolic office, your teachings do not bear the authority of apostolic witness," wrote the vestry.

The wardens and vestry said they had petitioned Bennison "many times to authorize a traditionalist bishop to make official episcopal visitations." Bennison rejected their pleas saying he had to come to maintain the unity of the diocese.

The wardens then lit into the bishop saying; "Your response continues to be closed to any modification for our spiritual needs, even to the minimal offering of the House of Bishops program for Delegated Episcopal Pastoral Authority (DEPO)."

In their letter they accused the bishop of having double standards saying that while he was willing to go through the process, "there would be no change of present diocesan (i.e. your) policy." They also challenged the bishop saying that he promoted unity but it was a unity outside "The Prayer for the Whole State of Christ's Church" which clearly identifies that such agreement had to be in agreement with God's Holy Word. "Without unity of faith, there can be no true unity," they said.

No members of the parish family will present themselves, they will seek confirmation elsewhere. "Many will not receive communion because you sound an uncertain trumpet in conflict with traditional Christian faith and morals, and many will be present and praying for your return to the faith. No one will receive the laying on of hands from you."

In a devastating blast at Bennison they wrote, "We fear that you have denied the need for God's plan of salvation offered in the unique ministry of Jesus, God incarnate, and faith in His atoning death, bodily resurrection, and physical ascension. Therefore, we are concerned for your eternal soul, and pray for your conversion."

The rector, wardens and vestry have prepared a 14-page indictment of Bishop Bennison that includes failed reconciliation talks, broken promises over the Parson's agreement for alternative episcopal oversight and more, which they have sent to the Archbishop of Canterbury, Dr. Rowan Williams, as well as to Frank Griswold, ECUSA's Presiding Bishop, Irish Archbishop Robin Eames of The Lambeth/Eames Commission, Archbishops Peter Akinola, (Nigeria); Drexel Gomez, (Nassau); Gregory Venables, (Southern Cone); and US Bishop Robert Duncan (Pittsburgh).

Copies were also sent to the Rev. Glenn Matis, head of the Diocesan Standing Committee and Canon Ellis Brust a leader in the American Anglican Council.

END