That's news to me about Lutherans. The hierarchical inclinations of the Episcopalians are rooted in the notion of apostolic succession -- the idea that ordained clergy are more in the know, holiness-wise, because they are heirs to a laying-on-of-hands extending back to the original Apostles. The Catholics share in this same sacramental daisy chain but don't, to say the least, have a heck of a lot in common with Episcopalians otherwise.
(I hope I escape perdition for this e-mail. Doug's overposting-bot has already nailed me once today.)
Carl
______________________________________________________ Get Your Private, Free Email at http://www.hotmail.com