PG, I'm not suggesting people shut up and not comment. I am asking specifically how it harms, on the individual level, outside the membership. I don't see it; so I am asking, so I CAN see it. I think if people would address that, it would make a great topic for our ministry class to discuss.

It's a fair question. It does not have to be taken defensively or as an attempt to control either the discussion or the people in that discussion.

It's a question on several levels, one being diversity of polity among denominations. See, in our denomination, people are elected at all levels. We elect the clergy who serve in a parish. We elect our bishops, both diocesan and assisting. We elect delegates to the convention that administers diocesan affairs and processes, as well as to the denominational convention that administers the national church. There is a system of checks and balances in this different from the checks and balances the USA form of government offers, but it is an effective one-- especially given the reality that people can and do vote with their feet, as well as with their financial pledges.

So again--

How does the choice of Pope actually [directly] mess with your own life, if he's not YOUR Pope?

~Susan