The Rt. Rev. Robert Shahan, Bishop of Arizona, used Bible studies, magic tricks, music, liturgy from the church in Africa, and a rancor- and resolution-free diocesan convention to focus Arizona Episcopalians on their role as Christians to be of use to God.

Under a banner proclaiming the theme, "We Are One: Surprised by Joy," delegates were treated to surprise visits by angels, a world-class magician and a bishop with tricks up his own sleeve, along with comic interruptions and congregational singing.

Delegates and guests at the Oct. 27-28 convention also got some serious charges from their bishop, who said the church "needs to rediscover what it means to be a servant community. God calls you to seek the soul of your congregation.

"All I want to do is awaken your hearts to the possibility that most of us don't need to be more spiritual," Bishop Shahan said. "We don't need more information. We already know everything we need to know: Love God and your neighbor as yourself. That will send us into the world in service. It is not a program, it is a way of life ... for the bold believer."

The bishop wove three major addresses and a sermon into the convention, held at the 20,000-member North Phoenix Baptist Church. The convention was short on business and long on inspiration and entertainment, most supplied by local Episcopalians.

The Rev. Canon Rebecca McClain, canon to the ordinary, who designed the convention, said the goal was met: "We wanted our people to experience joy and demonstrate that it often comes into our lives as a surprise. It is a gift from God."

Delegates adopted a $1.65 million budget which is 10 percent lower than allowed for by canon. They also got their first glimpse of a diocesan "vision team," a seven-member group of lay persons and clergy appointed to develop a strategic plan for carrying out the "We Are One" theme.

The kickoff for a $2.5 million capital funds campaign for the diocese's conference center in Prescott was part of the convention. Two adult lodges, a youth/ family dormitory and expansion of the dining room are called for in the plan.

At the convention Eucharist, Bishop Shahan commissioned each person for service as a Christian. Small pins bearing the words "We Are One" and a small gold cross were given to participants as a symbol of their commitment.

"I am sending you out," Bishop Shahan said, "not to save the church, but to be the church."