More than 150 youth representatives were among those who participated Jan. 26-27 in a visioning convocation designed to answer the question, What is the work of the Diocese of Newark?

Along with a diocesan design team, the conference was planned by diocesan consultant Helen Spector and a team of facilitators from across the country. Working with a method that Ms. Spector calls "appreciative inquiry," the gathering sought to identify what is currently working well in the diocese and what it collectively holds sacred.

The conclusion of the group is that the diocese feels deeply called to a future that focuses on youth and youth ministry, spiritual growth, inclusivity and rapprochement between suburbs and inner cities. Participants felt that the decision to separate strategic planning from diocesan convention [TLC, Feb. 11] and to include youth in the strategic planning process was a positive step.

The convocation was based on a few basic design principles and organized around the five vows delineated in the baptismal covenant. These vows formed the supporting structure for the visioning work rooted in the fact that the work of the diocese revolves around how each person demonstrates his or her faith in the world.

"I hope and pray that this will not remain just a 'feel-good' experience," said the Rt. Rev. John P. Croneberger, Bishop of Newark, "but that real action will be taken to move this diocese forward into an exciting future."

The conference ended with a renewal of baptismal vows by participants.