More than $1 million in relief and development grants were awarded by the board of directors of the Presiding Bishop's Fund for World Relief during its semi-annual meeting June 5-7 in New York City.

"This grand total of $1,378,299 in grants for half a year represents a significant response by the Episcopal Church to people in need throughout the world," said Ann Vest, president of the fund's board. "I give thanks that the fund is stronger now than it has been in quite some time."

The largest grant awarded was $62,000 to the Diocese of Jerusalem for continuing the diocesan ministry of relief and rehabilitation. Three other grants totaling $40,000 also were awarded to Jerusalem.

Some other large grants were $40,000 to the Diocese of Kagera, Tanzania, for the Anglican Community of Rwanda in exile in Tanzania; $40,000 to the Diocese of Liberia, an emergency grant for food; and $38,306 to the Diocese of Central Melanesia for an oil mill.

There were 39 grants awarded within the Episcopal Church, including three in the Diocese of Minnesota totaling $40,000. The Diocese of Olympia also received three grants, totaling $37,250.

The board also approved the release of $340,500 in emergency and special grants made during the time between board meetings.