Delegates attending the convention of the Diocese of Northern Michigan in Escanaba Oct. 22-24, gave the go-ahead to a major evaluation of the diocese's life and mission.

The Rt. Rev. Jim Kelsey, who was consecrated Bishop of Northern Michigan in July [TLC, Aug. 15], spoke of the timeliness of the evaluation: The diocese has a new bishop, is entering a new decade, a new century and a new millennium. The year 2000 also will mark the 10th anniversary of the commissioning of the first mutual ministry support team at the Church of the Ascension in Ontonagon.

The diocese, Bishop Kelsey said, has been especially focused in recent years on strengthening the life of small congregations, which had once been locked in a dependence and survival mode. Their revitalization, he said, "has been something close to miraculous for many of us. Now I am asking myself: 'What is the next step for us?'"

Professional help will be sought in designing and implementing the evaluation, which is to include as wide a participation in the diocese as possible. Information and data will be gathered from most congregations early in 2000 and from seasonal congregations early next summer. A report and strategic planning are expected to be completed in time for next year's diocesan convention.

The convention adopted a $441,225 budget for 2000.