The Diocese of New Jersey welcomed the national convention of the Union of Black Episcopalians, June 26-30. Monmouth University in Long Branch was the temporary home to the nearly 500 national delegates. More than half of the country's 50 states were represented at the convention, which featured daily business meetings, workshops, and Eucharists, around the theme "The Work We Are Sent to Do, and The Courage to See It Through."

The opening Eucharist at the Great Auditorium in Ocean Grove was highlighted by musical presentation which ranged from traditional and lively favorites to a capella melodies presented by a combined diocesan choir. The altar was flanked on one side by the Rt. Rev. David Joslin, Assisting Bishop of New Jersey, and seven black bishops from dioceses throughout the United States. The celebrant was national UBE president the Rev. Sandye Wilson, rector of Gethsemane Church, Minneapolis.

The preacher for Monday's opening Eucharist was the Rt. Rev. Wendell Gibbs, Bishop Coadjutor of Michigan.

Concurrent with the national UBE convention was a similar event for the youth.