Letter to the editor: Don't call him 'Father'

Notes: "Today, one of our wardens read a letter from our bishop. We have a new rector, a man. Perhaps it's time to consider the issue of calling male clergy 'Father'." "Calling a priest 'Father' sets him apart from his congregation. I don't accept the notion that my rector is my father. Also, it sets him apart from other clergy in the community; from the broader secular community; and from other Anglican clergy who don't want to be called 'Father' or may be a woman. Is it a patriarchal device intended to set women clergy apart from the men ? Perhaps our women clergy should start saying, 'I want you to call me Father'. (I doubt many want to be called 'Father', but it would highlight the issue !)" "Calling our male clergy 'Father' puts up walls. It creates unwelcome, anachronistic 'us/them' dynamics. Regardless of the rationale, it's time for a change".

Subjects: Anglican Church of Canada - Clergy; Women clergy - Anglican Church of Canada; Forms of address - Anglican Church of Canada; Anglican Church of Canada - Customs and practices; Patriarchy - Religious aspects - Anglican Church of Canada