Progressive urban ministry was placed center stage for perhaps the first time in the Diocese of Rhode Island during diocesan convention Oct. 26-27 in Seekonk, Mass.

Six Jubilee Centers active in the diocese were recognized for their work during a banquet on the opening night. The Jubilee Centers are active in a variety of ministries, including work with inner-city youth, direct services to the homeless in Providence, and several food distribution programs.

Four resolutions were considered and passed largely without debate. The first called clergy and laity to participate in workshops "to make churches safe for gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgendered people ..." Others encouraged faith communities to provide services to the homeless and mandated parishes and ministries to advocate for and provide information about public transportation. The final resolution mandated funding for diocesan liturgies.

The Rt. Rev. Geralyn Wolf, Bishop of Rhode Island, proposed and convention ratified reduction of the basic parish apportionment rate by one-half percent to 17 percent. A total apportionment of $1.6 million was approved for 2002.

(The Rev.) Peter Michaelson