The tone was consistent from its start. Convo IV, held at Philadelphia's Adam's Mark Hotel, was about change.

Bishop Cornal G. Henning Sr. in his closing sermon, noted he never had felt the sense of urgency or the depth of devoted concern as that encompassed by Convo IV.

Preaching a powerful message of "Hold On!...Hold Out for your blessing," Bishop Henning's sermon both echoed and encapsulated the spirit of the enthusiastic search for change and improvement that permeated Convo IV.

Earlier Friday, Rev. Melvin Wilson spoke on "Putting New Wine in Old Wine Skins." Change clearly was in the air.

And as all involved recognized. (particularly articulated by Bishop John R. Bryant and Bishop T. Larry Kirkland, the co-chairs of Convo IV) although there was disagreement on some issues it did not lead to personal attack.

Bishop Kirkland said, "The future (for the African Methodist Episcopal Church) is as bright as the promises of God. God promised us everything will be all right."

Bishop Bryant added a call of support for all A.M.E. members, "Do you feel the Lord is blowing a fresh wind in the church. Do you believe we can come out of the General Conference a stronger church?" He called upon people to look for the "intervention of our God." "Fast and pray one day each week from now until the General Conference," Bishop Bryant requested.