The nation's largest Lutheran church voted Monday to forge closer ties with three major Protestant denominations in a sweeping plan that allows for the exchange of clergy and communion.
However, the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) rejected a similar plan for closer ties with the Episcopal Church.
Tristate religious leaders greeted the votes on full communion with a mixture of relief, disappointment and enthusiasm Monday.
The Lutheran denomination approved a pact with the Presbyterian Church (USA), the United Church of Christ and the Reformed Church in America at its biennial assembly in Philadelphia.
Although Episcopalians had approved the same agreement at their triennial assembly in July, the Lutheran rejection came as no surprise to some area members. The main Lutheran objection to full communion with the Episcopal Church concerned the role of bishops: Episcopalians consider them life appointments and trace their authority back to the apostles, while Lutherans elect their bishops for six-year terms.
''I think we'll breathe a little easier and continue to do the work we've been doing together,'' said the Rev. Lisa Stafford, president of the Cincinnati conference of the ELCA's Southern Ohio Synod. ''There was quite a bit of concern, not that we're anti-
bishop, but ... there's not a need to create any more ecclesiastical hierarchy.''
Mike Barwell, spokesman for the Episcopal Diocese of Southern Ohio, said that the church was ''disappointed'' by the vote but that talks would likely continue.
''The relationships that already exist won't be hurt by this,'' said Mr. Barwell. ''The Sunday school programs and ecumenical worship services and youth programs that we already cooperate on will continue.''
All the churches involved stressed that people in the pews will likely not notice any huge differences.
''The effect of all this really will be way down the road, but I'm experiencing a shortage of clergy in this area, and this may help us in practical and theological ways,'' said the Rev. Sam Roberson, who heads the Presbytery of Cincinnati.
The Associated Press contributed to this report
