The convention of the Diocese of Maryland met in Annapolis May 4-6 under the themes of Christian formation and evangelism.

In their joint address, Bishop Robert W. Ihloff and Bishop Suffragan John L. Rabb touched on a variety of topics. One was a new look at the discernment process for ordination, with a special interest in young candidates. They proposed new parish starts in the pattern of The Gathering at Walkersville, begun in 1998. Bishop Ihloff, who had been part of the forum in Texas on divisive sexual issues [TLC, May 7], stressed the importance of dialogue with tolerance and affection among Christians of any differing convictions.

Such attitudes were evident during a lengthy discussion about the place of gays and lesbians in the church. It became evident that the convention was not ready to act on any of several proposed resolutions. The diocesan council was charged with sponsoring extensive forums on the issue this year.

Guests from the Diocese of Tokyo, Maryland's companion for 15 years, were joined by the Bishop of Accra, the Rt. Rev. Justice O. Akrofi, and other Ghanaians to mark the beginning of a second companion diocese relationship. Convention enthusiastically endorsed the appeal of the Rev. George Mocko, Bishop of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, for support of the document Called to Common Mission. Sandra Swann gave a report on her work as executive director of the Presiding Bishop's Fund for World Relief.

Two prominent Episcopal educators, the Rev. Joseph Russell of Cleveland and the Rev. Robin Szoke of the national church staff, set the tone for a vision of Christian formation described on the T-shirts of the youth delegates: "The Episcopal Church does not HAVE an education program; it IS an education program."

The 2000 budget, adopted by diocesan council in January, is $3,191,902.

(The Rev.) P. Kingsley Smith