[mvpel]

My office used to be right across the street from this church, and will be again in about three months. As I understand it, the statue of Mary is made out of aluminum, not stainless steel, and was flown in by helicopter when it was first installed -- undoubtedly that was a very surprising sight for people stuck in traffic on Highway 101.

[Down South]

In some cases, I can see why certain denominations don't want an overseeing body that appoints ministers at churches.

Currently, I'm attending a Methodist church, although my actual beliefs are probably leaning toward an evangelical/Wesleyan approach.

I guess thats one of the things that you have to get used to in certain denominations. But seing a priest/pastor/rabbi removed from any house of worship against his will, and the will of those who attend that church just seems very unnatural to me. (Same goes with appointing religious leaders to such positions.)