The convention of the Diocese of Western North Carolina, held at Kanuga Conference Center Nov. 12-14, was called by some a "feel-good" convention. Others were moved by the spiritual lilt of the diocese's 77th annual meeting.

The 400 delegates were reminded by the Rt. Rev. Robert H. Johnson, diocesan bishop, that "we're not here for ourselves alone. Christians exist to grow in God's love so that we might better serve God's people in God's world." He labeled theirs a "4L calling," that is: "to love, to learn, to laugh and to labor for God in the love of Jesus Christ."

Delegates passed 11 resolutions, five of which clarified, corrected, updated or made more inclusive the language of diocesan canons or constitution. Others expressed concern for the devastation in Central America in the aftermath of Hurricane Mitch, stated shock and anger at hate crimes, recognized the divisiveness of issues raised by the sexuality resolution at the Lambeth Conference, and commended the baptismal covenant as the norm and standard for Christian life.

Delegates also adopted a 1999 ministry funding program budget of $1.2 million.