The Rt. Rev. Vernon E. Strickland, Bishop of Western Kansas, called his diocese to a renewal of mission, ministry and evangelism during the diocesan convention Oct. 17-18 in Salina.

During his address at Christ Cathedral, Bishop Strickland also focused on youth and Christian education and announced plans for a diocesan capital fund campaign to begin in 1998, to ensure the mission of the church in Western Kansas into the next century and beyond.

The mission statements of each congregation were read by members of the diocesan council. Resolutions were adopted affirming the biblical tithe as the standard for Christian giving, and urging each congregation to adopt and teach that standard. Additional resolutions were adopted to ensure that both seat and voice would be afforded to the youth of the diocese at subsequent conventions.

A planned mission to Western Kansas' companion diocese, Venezuela, was presented by Judy and Bob Carson of McPherson.

(The Rev.) James R. Cox