To the editor:

In regard to the First Baptist Church in Cape Girardeau, being voted out of the Cape Association of Baptist Churches, I feel that is wrong. If each church is autonomous, why are they saying this fine old church cannot have women on their deacons on the board?

Our daughter was ordained in her church (not Baptist) and no one was more effective during her 20 years of service.

having been a Southern Baptist since age 11, I grieve over this division in my church. I am now 76 and am convinced this is wrong. Women are no longer second class citizens, so why does this organization take this stand? It can only lead to a far less effective and divided church.

Certainly Christianity does not need any more problems. I pray this can be put aside and all Christians go forward instead of backward.

George Barker

Marble Hill