denominations. But the role of the umbrella body claiming to represent them was still unclear.

The Bermuda Christian Ministerial Association, which represents about 35 of the Island's 100 or more congregations, has been criticised for not providing a unified Church voice on controversial issues.

The Rev. David Chisling, of Southampton Methodist Church, has suggested it should be replaced by a national council of churches with its own director and staff.

Mr. Chisling also said Bermuda's churches don't understand how to get along together.

But major church leaders were optimistic about relations between denominations.

"I think that relations are very good,'' said Roman Catholic Bishop of Bermuda the Most Rev. Brian Hennessy, pointing to yesterday's inter-denominational Constitution service.

And the Rev. Conway Simmons, Presiding Elder of the AME churches, agreed: "Amongst the ministers there is great fellowship despite our differences of opinion on questions of doctrine, morality and even politics, and as a body we do have great fellowship in Christ.

"Every minister who I know I have a good relationship with.'' The president of the Ministerial Association, the Rev. Harlyn Purdy, says the "basic principle and purpose'' of the group is to be a voice for the church in the community. He says a national church council is not needed.

Mr. Simmons commented: "I do know that there is a difference between a council of churches and the Ministerial Association as it is now constructed.

"At the present time it's merely a fellowship, and has no real authority or any real teeth to speak of.'' Mr. Chisling's idea of a council was worth studying to see if it is feasible.

Bishop Hennessy added: "The BCMA is purely a fraternal organisation. It doesn't speak for anybody, so in that sense it's fulfilling its role.'' The Anglican Bishop of Bermuda, the Rt. Rev. William Down, said: "I'm in favour of the churches working together as fully as possible so that we care for the people of Bermuda and beyond in the best and most effective way possible.

"I'm committed to the principle and the practice of ecumenical collaboration.''