The convention of the Diocese of Iowa directed the bishop and diocesan council to continue efforts in developing a comprehensive long-range plan for mission and ministry when it met Nov. 1-2.

In other action, the convention directed the mission commission to consider changes which would virtually eliminate the distinction between parishes and missions, and gave seat and voice to three members of the diocesan youth council.

In his convention address, the Rt. Rev. C. Christopher Epting spoke of positive developments in the diocese.

"The most fundamental shift we are experiencing has to do with a move away from a hierarchical, top-down leadership model to one more appropriate for a diocese which truly believes in, and is trying now to live out, the ministry of all God's people, the ministry of the baptized," he said.

Bishop Epting stressed servant leadership as an appropriate style for the diocese.

A budget of slightly more than $1 million was adopted.