"The Ministry of All the Baptized: to Seek and Serve Christ in All Persons," was the theme of the convention of the Diocese of Easton, Jan. 31-Feb. 1 in Princess Anne, Md.

Some sessions were held in St. Andrew's Church, and others on the campus of the University of Maryland, Eastern Shore.

In his convention address, the Rt. Rev. Martin G. Townsend, Bishop of Easton, illuminated the vision of the Rt. Rev. Henry C. Lay, first Bishop of Easton, and drew parallels between Bishop Lay's ministry and his own.

At the 1874 convention of the diocese, Bishop Lay had noted, " ... For it seems that the episcopate is eminently a creative function; its true worth is seen not merely in strengthening the things that are, but in laying foundations for other things as well."

Bishop Townsend organized his thoughts around Matt. 6:25-33, the gospel for the Feast of St. Brigid, focusing on the final verse, "But strive first for the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well." "Increasingly we do believe that ministry is most importantly a matter of living out our faith in the world, seeking and serving Christ in all persons, making a lively connection between Sunday morning and the rest of our week," he said.

Among the resolutions adopted was one which will lead to deacons having vote as well as seat and voice at diocesan convention, and another which takes a further step toward repeal of the Vestry Act, an ancient Maryland law which many feel has outlived its usefulness.

A budget of $547,061 was adopted.