THE REVEREND DR. JOE DARBY RESPONDS TO THE EDITOR'S COMMENTS REGARDING THE MINISTERIAL TITLE OF, "THE VERY REVEREND":
I was catching on up my e-mail and saw your note about some AME clergy calling themselves "The Very Reverend." That raises a simple question - if those of us in ministry are called "Reverend" when ordained as Deacons, and are called "Right Reverend" when elected and consecrated Bishops, then what is the rite of ordination or consecration, or the ritual or rule of elevation in the AME Church that allows us to be called "Very Reverend?!?"
If it's in the Doctrine and Discipline, I guess I missed it! I suppose the question brings the traditionalist curmudgeon in me out - I still cringe when I choose to call myself "Senior Pastor" since regardless of the size of our churches, there is only one assigned pastor! That's why Morris Brown in Charleston, South Carlina has no "Assistant" or "Associate" Pastors - only members of the clergy staff.
Rather than borrowing from other traditions to sound and look "holy," we might do well to simply do and be what AME's are supposed to do and be in an efficient, effective and Spirit-led manner. In doing so, we'd be walking faithfully in the footsteps of Jesus. When someone was trying to curry Jesus' favor in Matthew 19:16-17 (KJV) by calling Him "good master," His response was, "Why to you call me good? Only God is good."
(Submitted by the Reverend Dr. Joe Darby)
THE A.M.E. CHURCH REVIEW SHOULD BE READ BY EVERY CLERGY PERSON IN THE AFRICAN METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH AND BY EVERY LAYPERSON WHO IS SERIOUS ABOUT BEING A MEMBER OF THE AFRICAN METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH:
Yesterday, I stopped by the office of the Reverend Dr. Dennis Dickerson, the Editor-Publisher, Historiographer and Executive Director, Department of Research and Scholarship. He handed me the current issue of The A.M.E. Church Review and I perused through it while we chatted. Every now and then I would interrupt him to share some tidbit of new information that I was picking up while perusing through "The Review." Each time I interrupted, I felt slightly ashamed of my bad manners because I thought that Dr. Dickerson must have felt that I was not paying full attention to our conversation because I know that interjecting unrelated issues in a conversation is bad manners.
Well, I kept on doing it because I was amazed at all of the great information that was in our A.M.E. periodical! I finally said to Dr. Dickerson, "All of our preachers should be reading The Review; this is great stuff!" And then he told me that The Review had less than 4000 subscriptions and that a lot of our pastors have not subscribed to The A.M.E. Church Review; and very few laypersons are subscribed to it. That should not be the case. In my opinion, The A.M.E. Church Review is the best denominational periodical that I have ever read.
I want to share with you some of the things that I perused as I scanned and am now reading The A.M.E. Church Review. Dr. Dickerson has put in a biographical profile of all of the newly elected bishops. All of them were successful pastors and all of them are seminary graduates; six of them have earned doctorates.
Some AME Church trivia picked up perusing The Review: We have had 5 bishops born in Africa; 4 bishops born in Mississippi; 8 bishops born in Alabama; 11 bishops born in Florida; and 2 bishops born in Texas. I wonder how many bishops were born in South Carolina? I learned from reading this edition of The Review that at least one bishop, John Mifflin Brown, was born in Delaware.
There are a number of great articles in theology, history, and from the contemporary perspective that could give foundation and relevance to our preaching and teaching. Of particular note to me is the article written by the late Eugene C. Hatcher. When I thought of Bishop Hatcher, I thought about a great preacher and the hymn, "The Storm is Passing Over." I did not realize that he was a scholar. If you read his article entitled, "Peter," you will be blessed. He was a scholar and theologian in addition to being a great preacher.
In the area of Biblical Studies, the late Bishop R.R. Wright, scholar - theologian, authored an exhaustive work entitled, "Jesus." He breaks down the titles, Son of David, the Christ, Son of Man, Son of God; and writes about Jesus' mission, death and the Second Coming. You want some "meat" for a sermon, Hatcher and Wright has it packed in their articles. They were "prime-time" bishops.
There are three great sermons by Bishops Belin, Kirkland and Adams. As I read those sermons, I began to experience some ambivalence for I thought, "If every AME preacher subscribed to The Review and read these sermons, then it would make it more difficult for those of us who read The Review to rework, tweak and preach some of the thoughts in these sermons.
Ever hear of Bishop John Mifflin Brown? I am sure that I have seen his name on the Quadrennial calendars with the pictures and names of our bishops, but I never paid attention to the name, John Mifflin Brown. I thought that every Brown Chapel AME Church in America was named after Bishop Morris Brown. And surely I thought that Brown Chapel AME Church in Selma, Alabama was named after Morris Brown, but it wasn't. It was named after Bishop John Mifflin Brown, who was born in Delaware. Dr. Eldridge R. Ryan has penned and informative and an enlightening article about Bishop John Mifflin Brown. With February and Founder's Day approaching, the material in The A.M.E. Church Review would be a great resource of information. If you have not subscribed, I would suggest you do so.
Articles written by Bishops William DeVeaux, Preston W. Williams II and the other authors in the current issue of The A.M.E. Church Review offer a "banquet" of relevant articles that should be of interest to AMEs all over the world.
The Bookshelf gives us options of books that we might, and should, want to read. I got a sense that the Holy Spirit's was working in all of this as a read the book review of Reginald F. Hildebrand of Jeanette T. Johns' book, The Upward Journey: A Centenarian's Chronicle - Personal Stories of Bishop Decatur Ward Nichols, Revered Clergyman of the African Methodist Episcopal Church. A couple of days ago I wrote about what that book and the life of Bishop Nichols meant to me and I did not know that the current issue of The A.M.E. Church Review was going to be dealing with Jeanette Johns' book on Bishop Nichols.
I am closing with the thought that every pastor and serious laypersons should subscribe to and should read The A.M.E. Church Review. Come to think about it, every applicant for ministry should be required to subscribe to, The A.M.E. Church Review! To do so just drop Dr. Dennis Dickerson a note: Whhbutler@cs.com or call his office: 615.248-0905.
And, to carry it further, we, AMEs should be subscribed to all of our periodicals. Our periodicals are ours and no one will tell our story better than we, ourselves, can tell it!
Please do not let it be said of us as A.M.E. pastors, "Put it in The A.M.E. Church Review (or our other A.M.E. periodical) and they will never see it."
I certainly hope, in addition to the Bible, pastors are reading other books. For preaching and counseling to be relevant, pastors must be well-rounded and well-read!
Archive of The Christian Recorder Online from 2004-2016; Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III, 20th Editor of The Christian Recorder
12/30/2004
12/29/2004
THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER ONLINE (12/29/04)
THE AUTHOR AND TITLE OF THE BOOK WRITTEN ABOUT BISHOP DECATUR WARD NICHOLS:
In the December 27th issue of The Christian Recorder Online, I mentioned that I had read the book written about Bishop Decatur Ward Nichols and that I couldn't remember the author's name or the title of the book.
The title of the book is The Upward Journey authored by Jeanette T. Johns. It is an inspiring book and well-written. I believe that every AME, or at a minimum every person who is a candidate for ministry should read it.
The book about Bishop Nichols tells the story of a pastor, who "thought outside of the box" from the very beginning of his ministry. He wasn't just a "Sunday or weekend preacher." He was committed to full-time ministry, even when the "money" wasn't good. His ministry was an excellent example of a preacher "growing where he was planted." He was a man of vision. He wasn't given the biggest appointment, but he made it the biggest appointment. In other words he didn't wait to be assigned to the biggest church, he "watered" and nurtured the ground he had. He was competent and knew God's place in his ministry. And to accomplish all that he did in ministry, and later in the Episcopacy, he had to have had the blessings of the Holy Spirit.
He was a Connectional preacher - he traveled to throughout the Connection and attended the "meetings of the Church. He was a nurturing preacher - he knew that he had not gotten to where he was on his own power, but that others had helped him and when he succeeded, he pulled others with him.
Bishop Nichols was a man who was committed to his roots and a man who did not forget "From whence he had come." He was a man who honored his mother and father - he always remembered his parents and was committed to the family he "planted."
Another important attribute of Bishop Decatur Ward Nichols was when he was "knocked down, he refused to stay down." And, when he returned, he returned stronger. He didn't remain bitter. He smiled and "kept on loving" the Church. And as a result, the Church loves him. Bishop Nichols, the oldest living bishop in Methodism and a man of God.
Dr. Jeanette T. Johns recently wrote, "As he approaches his 104th birthday, plans are considerably simpler. The Bishop is looking forward to dining with those who mean so much to him and support him in every possible way, taking care of his every need, including three grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. His daughter, Wardean Nichols Henry, who lives in close proximity to her father and sees him every day, says she will be the one to make his favorite chocolate layer cake and see that he has his favorite Haagen-Dazs Strawberry Ice Cream."
EDITOR OF THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER NAMED "2004 CITIZEN OF THE YEAR":
The Reverend Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III, Editor of The Christian Recorder was recently honored by the Kappa Kappa Iota Chapter of Omega Psi Phi, Incorporated (Newport News / Hampton, Virginia) as the 2004 Citizen of the Year. Dr. Sydnor is a brother of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc.
HOW TO EMAIL THE EDITOR:
chsydnor@bellsouth.net
In the December 27th issue of The Christian Recorder Online, I mentioned that I had read the book written about Bishop Decatur Ward Nichols and that I couldn't remember the author's name or the title of the book.
The title of the book is The Upward Journey authored by Jeanette T. Johns. It is an inspiring book and well-written. I believe that every AME, or at a minimum every person who is a candidate for ministry should read it.
The book about Bishop Nichols tells the story of a pastor, who "thought outside of the box" from the very beginning of his ministry. He wasn't just a "Sunday or weekend preacher." He was committed to full-time ministry, even when the "money" wasn't good. His ministry was an excellent example of a preacher "growing where he was planted." He was a man of vision. He wasn't given the biggest appointment, but he made it the biggest appointment. In other words he didn't wait to be assigned to the biggest church, he "watered" and nurtured the ground he had. He was competent and knew God's place in his ministry. And to accomplish all that he did in ministry, and later in the Episcopacy, he had to have had the blessings of the Holy Spirit.
He was a Connectional preacher - he traveled to throughout the Connection and attended the "meetings of the Church. He was a nurturing preacher - he knew that he had not gotten to where he was on his own power, but that others had helped him and when he succeeded, he pulled others with him.
Bishop Nichols was a man who was committed to his roots and a man who did not forget "From whence he had come." He was a man who honored his mother and father - he always remembered his parents and was committed to the family he "planted."
Another important attribute of Bishop Decatur Ward Nichols was when he was "knocked down, he refused to stay down." And, when he returned, he returned stronger. He didn't remain bitter. He smiled and "kept on loving" the Church. And as a result, the Church loves him. Bishop Nichols, the oldest living bishop in Methodism and a man of God.
Dr. Jeanette T. Johns recently wrote, "As he approaches his 104th birthday, plans are considerably simpler. The Bishop is looking forward to dining with those who mean so much to him and support him in every possible way, taking care of his every need, including three grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. His daughter, Wardean Nichols Henry, who lives in close proximity to her father and sees him every day, says she will be the one to make his favorite chocolate layer cake and see that he has his favorite Haagen-Dazs Strawberry Ice Cream."
EDITOR OF THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER NAMED "2004 CITIZEN OF THE YEAR":
The Reverend Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III, Editor of The Christian Recorder was recently honored by the Kappa Kappa Iota Chapter of Omega Psi Phi, Incorporated (Newport News / Hampton, Virginia) as the 2004 Citizen of the Year. Dr. Sydnor is a brother of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc.
HOW TO EMAIL THE EDITOR:
chsydnor@bellsouth.net
12/28/2004
THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER ONLINE (12/28/04)
1. A QUESTION FROM THE EDITOR:
A "traditional" benediction or ending of a benediction that we hear in many churches ends like this:
"And now, may the grace of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ be with us, now, henceforth and forevermore. AMEN"
My question? I looked up the word, "henceforth" and it is defined in The American Heritage College Dictionary as follows: "From this time forth." It appears to me that the benediction as stated above is redundant. One might simply choose to say,
"And now, may the grace of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ be with us, now and forevermore. AMEN," or,
"And now, may the grace of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ be with us, henceforth AMEN"
Just a question!
And to underscore my question, I looked up the term, "hence," which means, "From this time; from now" and "From this life."
2. RETIRED AME BISHOP SERVED AS GUEST LEADER FOR STEWARDSHIP EMPHASIS:
The Rector, Senior Warden, Vestry, and the leadership of Holy Timothy Episcopal Church, Nashville, Tennessee have invited the Right Reverend Frederick Hilborn Talbot, D. Min. and retired Bishop of the African Methodist Episcopal Church to serve as the guest leader for its Stewardship Emphasis campaign that was held in December 2004.
Bishop Talbot addressed the parish leadership of St. Timothy on the biblical and spiritual dimensions of financial stewardship with an emphasis on tithing and percentage giving. Bishop Talbot's challenging stewardship presentations and inspiring messages were well received by parish leadership and members of St. Timothy.
Conservation Sunday is an annual event and Bishop Talbot spoke at both the 8 a.m. and the 11 a.m. Eucharistic Services, at which time the members were presented with their pledge cards.
3. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
Subject: The Rev. George Thomas
Date: 12/27/2004 8:59:38 PM
From: jrturnerjerry@hotmail.com
It is with sadness that we announce the home going of the Reverend George Thomas, Pastor of St. Paul AME Church, Madison, WI. Rev. Thomas passed away yesterday (12/27/04).
Funeral Arrangements are pending
"Earth has no Sorrow that Heaven cannot Heal"
St. Paul AME Church
4525 Diamond Drive
Madison, WI 53714
608-242-9728
Mrs. Shirley Thomas, First Lady
Rev. Louis Toney, Presiding Elder
Mrs. Karen Norris, Fourth Episcopal District Minister Spouses President
Dr. M. Joan Cousin, Episcopal Supervisor
Bishop Philip R. Cousin, Presiding Prelate
Please remember the family in your prayers.
God Bless!
Ora L. Easley, President
CONN-M-SWAWO +PK'S
Email: Amespouses1@aol.com
Phone: (615) 837-9736
Fax: (615) 833-3781
WEBSITES
http://www.amemswwpk.org/
http://www.connmswawo3.com/
A "traditional" benediction or ending of a benediction that we hear in many churches ends like this:
"And now, may the grace of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ be with us, now, henceforth and forevermore. AMEN"
My question? I looked up the word, "henceforth" and it is defined in The American Heritage College Dictionary as follows: "From this time forth." It appears to me that the benediction as stated above is redundant. One might simply choose to say,
"And now, may the grace of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ be with us, now and forevermore. AMEN," or,
"And now, may the grace of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ be with us, henceforth AMEN"
Just a question!
And to underscore my question, I looked up the term, "hence," which means, "From this time; from now" and "From this life."
2. RETIRED AME BISHOP SERVED AS GUEST LEADER FOR STEWARDSHIP EMPHASIS:
The Rector, Senior Warden, Vestry, and the leadership of Holy Timothy Episcopal Church, Nashville, Tennessee have invited the Right Reverend Frederick Hilborn Talbot, D. Min. and retired Bishop of the African Methodist Episcopal Church to serve as the guest leader for its Stewardship Emphasis campaign that was held in December 2004.
Bishop Talbot addressed the parish leadership of St. Timothy on the biblical and spiritual dimensions of financial stewardship with an emphasis on tithing and percentage giving. Bishop Talbot's challenging stewardship presentations and inspiring messages were well received by parish leadership and members of St. Timothy.
Conservation Sunday is an annual event and Bishop Talbot spoke at both the 8 a.m. and the 11 a.m. Eucharistic Services, at which time the members were presented with their pledge cards.
3. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
Subject: The Rev. George Thomas
Date: 12/27/2004 8:59:38 PM
From: jrturnerjerry@hotmail.com
It is with sadness that we announce the home going of the Reverend George Thomas, Pastor of St. Paul AME Church, Madison, WI. Rev. Thomas passed away yesterday (12/27/04).
Funeral Arrangements are pending
"Earth has no Sorrow that Heaven cannot Heal"
St. Paul AME Church
4525 Diamond Drive
Madison, WI 53714
608-242-9728
Mrs. Shirley Thomas, First Lady
Rev. Louis Toney, Presiding Elder
Mrs. Karen Norris, Fourth Episcopal District Minister Spouses President
Dr. M. Joan Cousin, Episcopal Supervisor
Bishop Philip R. Cousin, Presiding Prelate
Please remember the family in your prayers.
God Bless!
Ora L. Easley, President
CONN-M-SWAWO +PK'S
Email: Amespouses1@aol.com
Phone: (615) 837-9736
Fax: (615) 833-3781
WEBSITES
http://www.amemswwpk.org/
http://www.connmswawo3.com/
12/27/2004
THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER ONLINE (12/28/04)
QUESTION:
What are we going to do with the issues raised by Bishop Philip R. Cousin and the responses by the Reverend Dr. Floyd Alexander and Brother Jesse Burns at the General Board Meeting earlier this month? The issues were identified in The Christian Recorder Online and in the hard-copy Christian Recorder.
1. NOTES FROM THE EDITOR:
I have read several great books and looked at an exciting video over the Christmas holidays that I would like to recommend.
The first book that I read was From Boy Preacher to Serving God & Humanity "A Legacy of 77 Years," an autobiographical work done by the Reverend O'Neal Hayes Brown, Sr. It's a great book with a lot of AME history. It is easy reading, but has a lot inspirational moments and would be an encouragement for ministry. Every preacher should read this book
The Reverend C.E. Jenkins, retired presiding elder in the Tennessee Annual Conference has written several books that are on my reading list. Reverend Brown and Reverend Jenkins have told their stories and others of us need to tell our stories.
The second book that I read was The Christian Recorder, A.M.E. Church, 1854-1902 authored by Gilbert Anthony Williams. His book was so good that I tried to locate him, only to find out that he is deceased.
As the Editor of The Christian Recorder, I felt that this book was a must-read for me. This book is packed with history and it has inspired me to write some future articles on Richard Allen, Henry McNeil Turner and Daniel Payne. They were ahead of their times! I am also encouraged to write future articles in The Christian Recorder about our retired and active bishops. As an aside, immediately after the General Conference, I read the book about Bishop Nichols (I can't remember the title and I haven't unpacked all of my books) - absolutely a great read for African Methodists! We are a great Church!
I am also encouraged to write about "Endowment Day - a day that was held on the third Sunday in September to raise money for educational purposes of the AME Church" (Williams). In 1885, the AME Church raised $11,000 on Endowment Day for support of our AME schools. We had to support our own educational institutions because the AME Church rejected the "industrial education" model espoused by Booker T. Washington and as a result most of the philanthropic organizations did not support the educational institutions of the African Methodist Episcopal Church. We had to "go it alone."
If we had a grass roots Holy Ghost-filled "Endowment Day - 2004," I suspect that we could pay Morris Brown College out of debt and have some money left over. "Without faith, it is impossible..."
Anyway, the third learning was a video tape that I purchased at the General Board / Bishops' Council Meeting that was held in Nashville earlier this month entitled, Africa in the Holy Land. Dr. Paula Whatley Matabane, and Itinerant Elder in the African Methodist Episcopal Church, is the Executive Producer-Writer of "Africa in the Holy Land." Dr. Matabane did a wonderful job. It's a first-class video!
In my opinion, every member of the African Methodist Episcopal Church should view this video. It puts the Bible and the holy land in theological and racial perspective.
The forth blessing that I received over the Christmas holidays was finding my copy of the Encyclopaedia of African 1948 compiled by Bishop R.R. Wright. I have not seen it in a number of years. I thought that I had lent it to the late Reverend Dr. Andrew White and that he had not returned it (Please forgive me, Dr. White for thinking that you had my book). I had it packed away in a safe place - so safe that I couldn't find it.
And, no, none of you can borrow it. It is such a great work and my bet is that a lot of our clergy and laity have not ever seen the great work of Bishop R.R. Wright.
So, I am having a great Christmas vacation! I have enjoyed reading the books and viewing that outstanding video produced by Dr. Paula Matabane.
P.S. - I still have some articles that some of you gave me for publication. I am working on those now.
2. PAYNE THEOLOGICAL SMINARY - "A HEALING IN THE HEARTLAND," SUBMITTED BY STEPHANIE AND ERIC STRADFORD:
Wilberforce, OH, November 8, 2004 -- Leah Gaskin Fitchue is the first woman in a long line of healers at Payne Theological Seminary. Her inauguration, this week, distinguishes The Reverend Dr. Fitchue as the first African American woman to preside at an accredited seminary in America. The timing could not have been better. In the aftermath of a highly competitive presidential election, African Americans here in the heartland must now stand as healers for the nation. The Daniel Payne Legacy must now serve as an incubator for relevant ministry at a time characterized as, "Karos" by today's theologians. Dr. Fitchue stands on a legacy of theological giants in response to a call for promoting inclusively in America. Fitchue admitted, "I believe that God has blessed me to see the big picture. At the same time, He anointed and appointed gifts and talents here that can make things happen. Already, Fitchue has taken steps to enhance connectivity between Payne Theology and communities in need of relevant ministry. A new wireless computer network on campus was a necessary first step in engaging students, faculty and administration in advancing the institution. Effective and appropriate use of the technology by alumni, faculty, and students here will ultimately enhance access between Payne and the endless resources available through the body of believers in Jesus Christ. The Reverend Dr. William S. Wheatley, Pastor, Mt. Vernon African Methodist Episcopal Church, Columbus, OH, preached an "on time" pre-inaugural sermon that may offer prophetic insight to conditions experienced by Blacks in America. He described a contrast between the Greek words of "Chronos" and "Karos." "Chronos," from the word chronology, represents the "tick-tock" of time itself moving forward, minute after minute, day after day… "In contrast, "Karos" is crucial time, time that requires us to "Seize the Moment" for a breakthrough from God. Crucial time is God's time--the right time," he said…
(Read the rest of the article in The Christian Recorder - Subscribe to The Christian Recorder)
3. THE CALL TO WORSHIP IN THE AFRICAN METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH IS BASED UPON SCRIPTURE:
We recite the Call to Worship in most African Methodist Episcopal Churches each Sunday, but I wonder how many of our worshippers know that the AME Call to Worship is scriptural. I have appended the scriptural references to the Call of Worship.
Minister: I was glad when they said unto me, let us go into the house of the Lord, our feet shall stand within thy gates O Jerusalem. (Psalm 122:1-2)
People: For a Day on our courts is better than a thousand. I had rather be a doorkeeper in the house of the Lord than to dwell in the tents of wickedness. (Psalm 84:10)
Minister: Because of the house of the Lord our God I will seek thy good. (Psalm 122: 9)
People: Those that be planted in the house of the Lord, shall flourish in the courts of our God. (Psalm 92:13)
Minister: Blessed are they that dwell in thy house. Lord, I have loved thy habitation, the place where thy honor dwelleth. (Psalm 26:8)
People: For the Lord is in his holy temple: let all the earth keep silence before him. (Habakkuk 2:20)
Minister: Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in thy sight, O Lord, my strength and my redeemer. (Psalm 19:14)
People: O sing unto the Lord a new song, for he has done marvelous things. Make a joyful noise unto the Lord, all the earth, sing praises. (Psalm 98:1b, 4)
(Submitted by the Editor)
4. THE OFFICIAL WEBSITE OF THE RICHARD ALLEN YOUTH COUNCIL:
The web site of the Richard Allen Youth Council: www.rayac.org
5. A GREAT BIBLICAL WEBSITE:
http://bible.gospelcom.net/
What are we going to do with the issues raised by Bishop Philip R. Cousin and the responses by the Reverend Dr. Floyd Alexander and Brother Jesse Burns at the General Board Meeting earlier this month? The issues were identified in The Christian Recorder Online and in the hard-copy Christian Recorder.
1. NOTES FROM THE EDITOR:
I have read several great books and looked at an exciting video over the Christmas holidays that I would like to recommend.
The first book that I read was From Boy Preacher to Serving God & Humanity "A Legacy of 77 Years," an autobiographical work done by the Reverend O'Neal Hayes Brown, Sr. It's a great book with a lot of AME history. It is easy reading, but has a lot inspirational moments and would be an encouragement for ministry. Every preacher should read this book
The Reverend C.E. Jenkins, retired presiding elder in the Tennessee Annual Conference has written several books that are on my reading list. Reverend Brown and Reverend Jenkins have told their stories and others of us need to tell our stories.
The second book that I read was The Christian Recorder, A.M.E. Church, 1854-1902 authored by Gilbert Anthony Williams. His book was so good that I tried to locate him, only to find out that he is deceased.
As the Editor of The Christian Recorder, I felt that this book was a must-read for me. This book is packed with history and it has inspired me to write some future articles on Richard Allen, Henry McNeil Turner and Daniel Payne. They were ahead of their times! I am also encouraged to write future articles in The Christian Recorder about our retired and active bishops. As an aside, immediately after the General Conference, I read the book about Bishop Nichols (I can't remember the title and I haven't unpacked all of my books) - absolutely a great read for African Methodists! We are a great Church!
I am also encouraged to write about "Endowment Day - a day that was held on the third Sunday in September to raise money for educational purposes of the AME Church" (Williams). In 1885, the AME Church raised $11,000 on Endowment Day for support of our AME schools. We had to support our own educational institutions because the AME Church rejected the "industrial education" model espoused by Booker T. Washington and as a result most of the philanthropic organizations did not support the educational institutions of the African Methodist Episcopal Church. We had to "go it alone."
If we had a grass roots Holy Ghost-filled "Endowment Day - 2004," I suspect that we could pay Morris Brown College out of debt and have some money left over. "Without faith, it is impossible..."
Anyway, the third learning was a video tape that I purchased at the General Board / Bishops' Council Meeting that was held in Nashville earlier this month entitled, Africa in the Holy Land. Dr. Paula Whatley Matabane, and Itinerant Elder in the African Methodist Episcopal Church, is the Executive Producer-Writer of "Africa in the Holy Land." Dr. Matabane did a wonderful job. It's a first-class video!
In my opinion, every member of the African Methodist Episcopal Church should view this video. It puts the Bible and the holy land in theological and racial perspective.
The forth blessing that I received over the Christmas holidays was finding my copy of the Encyclopaedia of African 1948 compiled by Bishop R.R. Wright. I have not seen it in a number of years. I thought that I had lent it to the late Reverend Dr. Andrew White and that he had not returned it (Please forgive me, Dr. White for thinking that you had my book). I had it packed away in a safe place - so safe that I couldn't find it.
And, no, none of you can borrow it. It is such a great work and my bet is that a lot of our clergy and laity have not ever seen the great work of Bishop R.R. Wright.
So, I am having a great Christmas vacation! I have enjoyed reading the books and viewing that outstanding video produced by Dr. Paula Matabane.
P.S. - I still have some articles that some of you gave me for publication. I am working on those now.
2. PAYNE THEOLOGICAL SMINARY - "A HEALING IN THE HEARTLAND," SUBMITTED BY STEPHANIE AND ERIC STRADFORD:
Wilberforce, OH, November 8, 2004 -- Leah Gaskin Fitchue is the first woman in a long line of healers at Payne Theological Seminary. Her inauguration, this week, distinguishes The Reverend Dr. Fitchue as the first African American woman to preside at an accredited seminary in America. The timing could not have been better. In the aftermath of a highly competitive presidential election, African Americans here in the heartland must now stand as healers for the nation. The Daniel Payne Legacy must now serve as an incubator for relevant ministry at a time characterized as, "Karos" by today's theologians. Dr. Fitchue stands on a legacy of theological giants in response to a call for promoting inclusively in America. Fitchue admitted, "I believe that God has blessed me to see the big picture. At the same time, He anointed and appointed gifts and talents here that can make things happen. Already, Fitchue has taken steps to enhance connectivity between Payne Theology and communities in need of relevant ministry. A new wireless computer network on campus was a necessary first step in engaging students, faculty and administration in advancing the institution. Effective and appropriate use of the technology by alumni, faculty, and students here will ultimately enhance access between Payne and the endless resources available through the body of believers in Jesus Christ. The Reverend Dr. William S. Wheatley, Pastor, Mt. Vernon African Methodist Episcopal Church, Columbus, OH, preached an "on time" pre-inaugural sermon that may offer prophetic insight to conditions experienced by Blacks in America. He described a contrast between the Greek words of "Chronos" and "Karos." "Chronos," from the word chronology, represents the "tick-tock" of time itself moving forward, minute after minute, day after day… "In contrast, "Karos" is crucial time, time that requires us to "Seize the Moment" for a breakthrough from God. Crucial time is God's time--the right time," he said…
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3. THE CALL TO WORSHIP IN THE AFRICAN METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH IS BASED UPON SCRIPTURE:
We recite the Call to Worship in most African Methodist Episcopal Churches each Sunday, but I wonder how many of our worshippers know that the AME Call to Worship is scriptural. I have appended the scriptural references to the Call of Worship.
Minister: I was glad when they said unto me, let us go into the house of the Lord, our feet shall stand within thy gates O Jerusalem. (Psalm 122:1-2)
People: For a Day on our courts is better than a thousand. I had rather be a doorkeeper in the house of the Lord than to dwell in the tents of wickedness. (Psalm 84:10)
Minister: Because of the house of the Lord our God I will seek thy good. (Psalm 122: 9)
People: Those that be planted in the house of the Lord, shall flourish in the courts of our God. (Psalm 92:13)
Minister: Blessed are they that dwell in thy house. Lord, I have loved thy habitation, the place where thy honor dwelleth. (Psalm 26:8)
People: For the Lord is in his holy temple: let all the earth keep silence before him. (Habakkuk 2:20)
Minister: Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in thy sight, O Lord, my strength and my redeemer. (Psalm 19:14)
People: O sing unto the Lord a new song, for he has done marvelous things. Make a joyful noise unto the Lord, all the earth, sing praises. (Psalm 98:1b, 4)
(Submitted by the Editor)
4. THE OFFICIAL WEBSITE OF THE RICHARD ALLEN YOUTH COUNCIL:
The web site of the Richard Allen Youth Council: www.rayac.org
5. A GREAT BIBLICAL WEBSITE:
http://bible.gospelcom.net/
12/24/2004
THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER ONLINE (12/24/04)
A MERRY CHRISTMAS
TO ALL OF YOU
FROM
THE AME PUBLISHER, THE REVEREND DR. JOHNNY BARBOUR
AND ALL OF THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER STAFF.
1. A WORD FROM THE EDITOR:
A pastor friend and I were talking about the importance of our ministers being grounded in the doctrine of the AME Church. He shared with me that he had visited a Sunday afternoon program and the scripture was read, followed by the prayer. Our liturgical protocol is that the prayer always precedes the reading of the scripture.
I shared with him that I was visiting one of our churches once and listened to the preacher extend an engaging and challenging invitation. The pastor then went on to ask if there was one who wanted to become a "Watch-care" member. Well, that was not the first time that I had heard an AME minister use the term "Watch-care." Needless to say, I was shocked and disappointed. We do not have a "Watch-care" system in Methodism and we do not have, nor do we, as African Methodists, use the term "watch-care" as a part of our liturgical lexicon
In African Methodism, we have "Affiliated membership" (See The Doctrine and Discipline of the African Methodist Episcopal Church 2000, or any of the earlier editions of The Discipline). The Discipline says, "Members of a local church, residing elsewhere for an extended period, may upon application be enrolled as 'Affiliated Members' of the African Methodist Episcopal located in the vicinity of their current residence." (Page 67)
This might be an indication that we, as a Church, might need to refocus upon the history, doctrine and polity of the Church and to insure that all of our candidates for ministry possess the necessary skills and knowledge to be competent pastors.
As an aside, I have received notes from several pastors in which their signature blocks said, "The Very Reverend…" It sure sounds good, but I am not sure that designation is appropriate for ministers in the African Methodist Episcopal Church.
What are your thoughts? If you share your thoughts, please post your first and last name.
2. THE REVEREND DR. JOE DARBY TELLS SAYS IT'S OKAY TO SAY, "MERRY CHRISTMAS":
I've been both amazed and amused at the recent opinion page sound and fury over how to observe and acknowledge the many holy days that converge around the winter solstice, so much so that I decided to put my two cents worth in as a Christian. My appreciation of Christmas and my Christian faith were born and grew at my family church, Saint James African Methodist Episcopal Church in Columbia. There was no question about the observance of Christmas in the Wheeler Hill community that surrounded Saint James Church, because all of the residents claimed membership in Saint James or in the Baptist and AME Zion Churches that were also located in the community. There was no debate about carols or prayer in school, because the administration, faculty, staff, support personnel, parents and students all professed Christianity and were all African-American in those days.
That community fell victim to what used to be called "urban renewal," and is now a part of the University of South Carolina campus, but the Christian faith I discovered there goes with me. Since growing up and leaving that community, it's been my pleasure to have a greater appreciation for an America that is not and has never been a "melting pot." America is more of a "salad bowl," where people of diverse faith traditions and ideas share the common bond of citizenship while maintaining their cultural identities. Those who founded and framed the laws of our nation assured that diversity when they embraced freedom of religion in our Constitution. They made it possible for people of all faiths and people who embrace no faith to live their lives in their own comfort zones and by their own traditions in an atmosphere of mutual respect as Americans. That view of our American heritage leads me to offer a few suggestions from my faith perspective that will hopefully be good for people of all faiths and for people who profess no faith.
My first suggestion is to lighten up. I'm not offended if I say, "Merry Christmas" and the person I'm speaking to simply says "thank you" or "happy holidays." My mother taught me that simply speaking when you're spoken to is the essence of courtesy, and that being insulted when the response doesn't suit you is childish. People of faith would also do well to remember that the Creator is all-powerful and is big enough not to need our defense to survive. If your faith or your faith tradition is endangered or diminished simply because others don't agree with you, then your faith needs work.
I'd also suggest that you respect the faith of others and respect those who have no faith, for respect does not necessarily mean agreement. My mother taught me that a good Christian could disagree with others without being disagreeable. It's admirable to hold to and state your beliefs, but it's a sign of insecurity when you demean the worth of others simply because they disagree with your view of things. If we as people of faith would model that positive regard to the community, then we've have less political strife and less community division, and we could find new common ground on our points of shared belief.
My final recommendation is to let your faith show in your deeds as well as your words. One of my late preacher uncles told me early in my ministry, "If you do what you're supposed to as a pastor, you won't have to constantly remind people that you're the pastor." Faith is not something just to be trumpeted, forced down the throats of others, used as a "holy blackjack" to bludgeon others into submission, or used as a test of human worth or citizenship. Faith shows through in the way that we relate to the Creator and in the way that we treat others and conduct ourselves. Christian Scripture says that the believers in Jesus studied together, prayed together, ate together, worshiped together, reached out to the needy and did so with glad hearts. Christian Scripture also says that new people embraced their way of thinking and joined them every day - not because they were forced to, but because what they saw, as well as what they heard, made a positive impact on their lives.
I hope that all who read this will have (or have had) a wonderful celebration of faith or of life as we begin another winter and look toward the New Year. I also hope that in the midst of the celebration, you take (or took) the time to reflect on the meaning of and reaffirm your faith. Real faith goes beyond and is not dependent on symbols and sayings. Simply saying "Merry Christmas" or "Happy Hanukkah" or "Happy Kwanzaa" or offering someone best wishes at Eid al-Adha isn't what matters the most, for words can be routine and insincere. What matters the most is that we live our faith by treating others right every day and making the lives of others better. We can then stop debating "political correctness" and embrace real progress.
The Reverend Joseph Darby, Senior Pastor,
Morris Brown African Methodist Episcopal Church,
Charleston, South Carolina
3. ST. PAUL AME CHURCH, DALLAS, TEXAS HOSTED WORLD AIDS DAY OBSERVANCE:
"Sensational" St. Paul AME Church in Dallas, Texas hosted an ecumenical Praise and Worship Service in observance of World AIDS Day on December 1, 2004. The Reverend Michael E. Bell, Sr., Senior Pastor has been an open supporter of the faith-based response to the HIV/AIDS pandemic, has spoken about the issue regularly from the pulpit, and has opened the doors of the church to hold services that are HIV/AIDS specific. Last Spring, "Sensational" St. Paul participated in the National Black Church Week of Prayer for the Healing of HIV/AIDS. Pastor Bell states that, "It is important that the church keep the crucial issue of HIV/AIDS in front of the people."
The World AIDS Day Praise and Worship Service was an anointed evening of fellowship, filled with beautiful music from praise and worship leaders and liturgical dancers from various ministries. A wonderful display of unity among clergy across the Dallas metroplex filled the pulpit. Rev. Sharon Grant, an Associate Minister at "Sensational" St. Paul, coordinated the event with the faith-based non-profit organization, The Pastor's Initiative Against HIV/AIDS. The HIV/AIDS ministries from The Potter's House, Sr. Pastor, Bishop T.D. Jakes, and St. Luke "Community" UMC, Sr. Pastor, Rev. Tyrone Gordon were additional major participants in the powerful service.
The event was well attended, generating support from numerous churches and local agencies actively involved in the battle against HIV/AIDS. Rev. Grant remarked that, "The recent success in Uganda demonstrates that when the leadership and churches become visible and vocal with regard to issues surrounding HIV/AIDS, transmission rates are significantly lowered and lives are saved." She is prayerful and hopeful that the positive response generated from the ecumenical service will contribute to lowered rates of HIV/AIDS transmission and AIDS related deaths in the local African-American community.
(Article prepared by the Reverend Sharon Grant)
4. BROTHER ERIC AND SISTER STEPHANIE STRADFORD'S ARTICLE IN http://www.fas2.net/FAMILY/nashville.htm ABOUT THE GENERAL BOARD MEETING HELD RECENTLY IN NASHVILLE:
Retired Army Chaplain Heads Oldest Black Circulated Newspaper
Growing up AME, serving in the military, and teaching at Hampton University perhaps disciplined the Army veteran for a special assignment. (Submitted by Stephanie and Eric Stradford)
FAS2, Nashville, TN, December 7, 2004 - Army Colonel Calvin H. Sydnor, III tackled tough questions, today, concerning his new command of the oldest black circulated newspaper in the United States. In July, church delegates elected the retired chaplain, Editor, The Christian Recorder Newspaper, an official publication of the African Methodist Episcopal Church.
Bishop Gregory Ingram chairs the church's Publications Commission and has opened the door to fresh ideas. "The Christian Recorder is the oldest black circulated paper in the United States. If we can get some of us to have a little more sensitivity about our own publications, we can help ourselves get out of some of the quagmires we're in," said Bishop Ingram.
"I'm going to suggest to us that we talk about a subscription drive. Let's get behind our own publications. Let's support our own people so that we might be able to look with pride at what these persons are doing."
Dr. Sydnor brings to The Christian Recorder twenty-eight years of experience as a United States Army Chaplain, along with gifts in spiritual leadership, pastoral care, counseling, human resources, financial management, budgeting, logistics, and organizational development. Bishop Gregory G. M. Ingram noted that, "we can help ourselves." Supporters for the new editor are already putting words to work. United by the theme, "Prayer Changes Things," correspondents, photographers, graphic artists and technicians are collectively transforming Internet chatter into a virtual workplace for solving problems. The Editor draws on experience in distance learning to bridge willing workers and work that needs to be done. Prior to his election, Sydnor served as Director of the Religious Studies Program and Assistant Professor of Ethics and Religion, Hampton University.
Past problems of getting the news out on time is being addressed through a value-added online subscription. Readers in Africa, The Caribbean, Europe, as well as the United States, are logging on The Christian Recorder like never before. Circulation could very well double in the coming months as new readers discover timely and relevant news about their global church family.
5. FOUR DAYS AGO A MILITARY COMPOUND'S DINING FACILITY IN MOSUL, IRAQ WAS ATTACKED BY A SUICIDE BOMBER. THE EMAIL MESSAGE THAT I RECEIVED AND IS EMBEDDED BELOW IS A GRAPHIC FIRST-HAND ACCOUNT FROM AN ARMY CHAPLAIN WHO MINISTERED TO WOUNDED SOLDIERS, CIVILIANS, AND CAREGIVERS. THIS ACCOUNT SHARES THE HORROR OF WAR:
MASCAL
By the time I got back to our compound it was all over the news. It seemed like the thing had just happened when in reality I had been neck deep in it for several hours. And there it was on TV. Frankly, it's kind of a blur.
The day began early as I didn't sleep very well last night. Once I was awake I decided not to just lay there and stare at the darkness so I got up, got dressed, shaved and headed into the TOC, the heart of what goes on. In the TOC (Tactical Operations Center) they monitor several different radio nets to keep abreast of what is happing in the area. It's the place to be if you want up to the minute information. When I arrived it was fairly calm. I made small talk with the guys there and sipped that first cup of morning coffee. The day was clear and there was very little going on, or so it seemed. A very short while later we received the initial reports. In this area there are several "camps" or "posts" that house the various combat and support units that do the day to day fighting and working around here. The first report said that a mortar had just hit one of the nearby chow halls during the middle of lunch (I'm on GMT so my morning is actually the middle of the day). It's called a MASCAL or Mass Casualty event and it's where the rubber meets the road in military ministry. They said there were approximately 10 casualties. That was the extent of it so I kind of filed it away in the back of my mind and continued to sip my coffee. The next report wasn't so good. 10 dead and approximately 50 wounded. They were being transported to the Combat Surgical Hospital down the street. The Chaplain at the CSH is a good guy and I knew he'd be in need of help so I woke my assistant and we rushed to the hospital. I didn't expect what I saw.
The scene was little more than controlled chaos. Helicopters landing, people shouting, wounded screaming, bodies everywhere. As the staff began to triage the dead and wounded I found the chaplain and offered my assistance. He directed me to where he needed me and I dove in. I would be hard pressed to write about every person I had the opportunity to pray with today but I will try to relate a few.
I found "Betty" on a stretcher being tended by nurses. I introduced myself and held her hand. She looked up at me and said, "Chaplain, am I going to be alright?" I said that she was despite the fact that I could see she had a long road to recovery ahead of her. Most of her hair had been singed off. Her face was burnt fairly badly, although it didn't look like the kind of burns that will scar. What I do know is that it was painful enough to hurt just by being in the sun. I prayed with Betty and moved on.
"Ilena" (a made up name. She spoke very softly and had a thick accent so I couldn't really hear her) had been hit by a piece of shrapnel just above her left breast causing a classic sucking chest wound. The doctors said she had a hemothorax (I think that's what they called it) which basically meant her left lung was filling with blood and she was having a very hard time breathing. For the next 20 minutes I held her hand while a doctor made an incision in her left side, inserted most of his hand and some kind of medical instrument and then a tube to alleviate the pressure caused by the pooling blood. It was probably the most medieval procedure I have ever been privy to. In the end she was taken to ICU and will be OK.
"Mark" was put on a stretcher and laid along a wall. A small monitor on his hand would tell the nurses when he was dead. Even a cursory glance said it was inevitable. Mark had a head wound that left brain matter caked in his ear and all over the stretcher he was lying on. I knelt next to Mark and placed a hand on is chest. His heart was barely beating but it was beating so I put my face close to his ear to pray with him. If you've never smelled human brain matter it is something unforgettable. I had something of an internal struggle. He's practically dead so why stay? He probably can't hear anything! A prayer at that point seemed of little value. But I couldn't risk it. I prayed for Mark and led him in the sinner's prayer as best I could. There are few things in this life that will make you feel more helpless. After that, I needed some fresh air.
I stepped outside and found the situation to be only slightly less chaotic. The number of body bags had grown considerably since I first went inside. I saw a fellow chaplain who was obviously in need of care himself. I stopped him and put my arm around him and asked how he was doing. A rhetorical question if ever I asked one. He just shook his head so I pulled him in close and prayed for his strength, endurance, a thick skin, and a soft heart. Then I just stood and breathed for a few minutes.
Regardless of what some may say, these are not stupid people. Any attack with casualties will naturally mean that eventually a very large number of caregivers will be concentrated in one location. They took full advantage of that. In the middle of the mayhem the first mortar round hit about 100 to 200 meters away. Everyone started shouting to get the wounded into the hospital, which is solid, concrete and much safer than being in the open. Soon, the next mortar hit quite a bit closer than the first as they "walked" their rounds toward their intended target...us. Everyone began to rush toward the building. I stood at the door shoving as many people inside as I could. Just before heading in myself, the last one hit directly on top of the hospital. I was standing next to the building so was shielded from any flying shrapnel. In fact, the building, being built as a bunker took the hit with little effect. However, I couldn't have been more than 10 to 15 meters from the point of impact and brother did I feel the shock. That'll wake you up! I rushed inside to find doctors and nurses draped over patients, others on the floor or under something. I ducked low and quickly moved as far inside as I could.
After a few tense moments people began to move around again and the business of patching bodies and healing minds continued in earnest. As I stood talking with some other chaplain, an officer approached and not seeing us, yelled, "Is there a chaplain around here?" I turned and asked what I could do. He spoke to us and said that another patient had just been moved to the "expectant" list and would one of us come pray for him. I walked in and found him lying on the bed with a tube in his throat, and no signs of consciousness. There were two nurses tending to him in his final moments. One had a clipboard so I assumed she'd have the information I wanted. I turned to her and asked if she knew his name. Without hesitation the other nurse, with no papers, blurted out his first, middle, and last name. She had obviously taken this one personally. I'll call him "Wayne". I placed my hand on his head and lightly stroked his dark hair. Immediately my mind went to my Grandpa's funeral when I touched his soft grey hair for the last time. And for the second time in as many hours I prayed wondering if it would do any good, but knowing that God is faithful and can do more than I even imagine. When I finished I looked up at the nurse who had known his name. She looked composed but struggling to stay so. I asked, "Are you OK?" and she broke down. I put my arm around her to comfort and encourage her. She said, "I was fine until you asked!" Then she explained that this was the third patient to die on her that day.
"Rachel" was sitting in a chair with no injuries. She was worried about two friends that had been moved to other hospitals in country. So we prayed.
"John", a First Sergeant, asked me, "How does my face look?" knowing he had been badly burned and would probably have some scaring. He was covered in blood, pus, and charred skin so I said, "First Sergeant, you look better than some people I know back home." He laughed and we prayed.
One of the many American civilian workers had been hit in the groin. He was happy to be alive and even happier to be keeping, "all my equipment." It was a light moment in a very heavy day.
As my assistant and I walked away at the end of the day I saw another chaplain and a soldier standing among the silent rows of black body bags. The soldier wanted to see his friend one more time. We slowly and as respectfully as possible unzipped the bag to reveal the face of a very young Private First Class. His friend stared for a few seconds then turned away and began to cry.
The last count was 25 dead, and around 45 wounded. Nevertheless, our cause is just and God is in control even when the crap is a yard deep. I'm where God wants me and wouldn't change that for anything, even if it means death. After all, "to die is gain."
Post Script: all patient names were changed to prevent identification of victims before family notification.(Email sent by Chaplain (CPT) Brad Lewis)
6. EDITOR'S NOTE:
War is a terrible thing! My heart aches for the families of soldiers who have been killed in action and for soldiers who are maimed. Wounded soldiers will be a burden on our nation for years and years. Our nation is in a "mess" that will not be resolved anytime soon. I wish that we could wind the clock back and extricate ourselves out of this quagmire.
The Christian Recorder would love to hear the stories from our AME chaplains and soldiers. Accounts such as the one above exposes the horror of war as a reality. I am afraid that newspapers across the country are relegating the everyday Iraq War news away from the front pages.
While we will pray for our soldiers and we all need to pray that we will get out of this "mess" and somehow bring our soldiers back home. The money we are spending on the war could be better spent in our communities here in the United States. We need to underpin democracy right here "at home."
12/23/2004
THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER ONLINE (12/23/04)
1. WARD AME CHURCH CHOIR WILL APPEAR ON THE TONIGHT SHOW WITH JAY LENO. THE SHOW AIRS TONIGHT, DECEMBER 23RD:
We are pleased and proud to share with you that Rev. Sylvester Laudermill and the Ward AME Church Choir from Los Angeles will be the special musical guests on the Tonight Show with Jay Leno Thursday December 23rd. The show airs on NBC beginning at 11:35 p.m.
Yours in the Joy of Jesus
Pastor Mike
2. BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
Bereavement Notice Update:Mrs. Iris Jenkins, mother of the Reverend James O. Williams, Sr., Presiding Elder of the Daytona Beach District, Central Florida Conference, Eleventh Episcopal District
The funeral services for Mrs. Iris Jenkins, mother of Reverend James O. Williams, Sr., Presiding Elder of the Daytona Beach District, Eleventh Episcopal District, will be held on Wednesday, December 29, 2004 at 11 a.m. at St. John Missionary Baptist Church, Orlando, Florida.
Condolences can still be sent to:
Reverend James O. Williams, Sr.
9142 Royal Gate DriveWindermere, Florida 34786
(407) 578-0099 (home)(407) 578-3004 (fax)
God Bless!Ora L. Easley, PresidentCONN-M-SWAWO +PK'SEmail: Amespouses1@aol.com
Phone: (615) 837-9736Fax: (615) 833-3781
WEBSITES: http://www.amemswwpk.orghttp://www.connmswawo3.com
3. AN APPEAL FROM THE REVEREND TEBOHO G. KLASS:
The reason I write this email to you is to request your assistance in identifying persons or local churches that may be willing to be a blessing to one of our young people who has goal to be a medical doctor in South Africa. He is a son of late Pastor in the East Conference (19th Episcopal), who passed away in the middle of 1993 - Rev. Maloisane. His son has been living with his mother, working his educational advancement to reach matric (Grade 12). He applied to a university in Cape Town, as his indication of a career path in medicine, and the university has accepted his application pending the final results and the fees for registration. The final results of his matric examinations are due to be released on December 29th, 2004. He is dependant on the income of his mother to have the funds for his registration. Unfortunately, just a month ago, his mother who is an assistant in a doctor' surgery has been informed that she will no longer be employed at the beginning of next year. There will no longer be an income, meagre as it was, as a result of this unfortunate announcement. In order to register, he will have to pay $1,550 (approximately ZAR 10,000), which will exclude accommodation, reading materials and transport to Cape Town.
I am specifically requesting you to assist in getting people of goodwill to assist in this regard. The registration will have to be done by the end of January 2005 for him to be accepted. The Episcopal Scholarship Programme has been approached for assistance. Some contribution may come from the scholarship but it will not meet this entire required sum. To my knowledge, the programme only funds members of the church for the academic training and not the registration fees. I mean that because the funds are released long after the registration period is past.
Bishop James L. Davis already knows about this situation. I do not know what he is going to be doing about it. I am doing this in order that he may be assisted to respond to the need of this brother. I have not spoken to Bishop Davis but I believe he would not be opposed to any goodwill manifested through this initiative. Should there be any person or local church that is willing to help, I request that they get in touch with Bishop James L. Davis in Atlanta, GA. I believe, as the leader of the District, he will be more than able to administer the contributions that may come as result of this request.
Bishop Davis' contact details are:
Mobile phone # (404) 606 2282
Email: pnpass@aol.com
I thank you for your understanding and in the knowledge that you will find it helpful to extend your hand of fellowship towards this need. Since I am on holidays, I will, in most of the times, be accessible by phone. My mobile phone number is as provided below and may also be accessed at this other one for further information # +27 82 557 1798.
Once again, remember that I am on my knees, in prayer, for your health, strength, peace and joy during this season.
Because He Lives, I am
Rev. Teboho G. Klaas
Acting Director: HIV/AIDS Programme(Executive Assistant to General Secretary)
South African Council of Churches
9th Floor, Khotso House
62 Marshall House,
Johannesburg 2001
Tel: +27 11 241 7811/2/6
Fax: +27 11 838 4818 or +27 11 492 4818
Mobile: +27 82 412 2960
Email: tgk@sacc.org.za
We are pleased and proud to share with you that Rev. Sylvester Laudermill and the Ward AME Church Choir from Los Angeles will be the special musical guests on the Tonight Show with Jay Leno Thursday December 23rd. The show airs on NBC beginning at 11:35 p.m.
Yours in the Joy of Jesus
Pastor Mike
2. BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
Bereavement Notice Update:Mrs. Iris Jenkins, mother of the Reverend James O. Williams, Sr., Presiding Elder of the Daytona Beach District, Central Florida Conference, Eleventh Episcopal District
The funeral services for Mrs. Iris Jenkins, mother of Reverend James O. Williams, Sr., Presiding Elder of the Daytona Beach District, Eleventh Episcopal District, will be held on Wednesday, December 29, 2004 at 11 a.m. at St. John Missionary Baptist Church, Orlando, Florida.
Condolences can still be sent to:
Reverend James O. Williams, Sr.
9142 Royal Gate DriveWindermere, Florida 34786
(407) 578-0099 (home)(407) 578-3004 (fax)
God Bless!Ora L. Easley, PresidentCONN-M-SWAWO +PK'SEmail: Amespouses1@aol.com
Phone: (615) 837-9736Fax: (615) 833-3781
WEBSITES: http://www.amemswwpk.orghttp://www.connmswawo3.com
3. AN APPEAL FROM THE REVEREND TEBOHO G. KLASS:
The reason I write this email to you is to request your assistance in identifying persons or local churches that may be willing to be a blessing to one of our young people who has goal to be a medical doctor in South Africa. He is a son of late Pastor in the East Conference (19th Episcopal), who passed away in the middle of 1993 - Rev. Maloisane. His son has been living with his mother, working his educational advancement to reach matric (Grade 12). He applied to a university in Cape Town, as his indication of a career path in medicine, and the university has accepted his application pending the final results and the fees for registration. The final results of his matric examinations are due to be released on December 29th, 2004. He is dependant on the income of his mother to have the funds for his registration. Unfortunately, just a month ago, his mother who is an assistant in a doctor' surgery has been informed that she will no longer be employed at the beginning of next year. There will no longer be an income, meagre as it was, as a result of this unfortunate announcement. In order to register, he will have to pay $1,550 (approximately ZAR 10,000), which will exclude accommodation, reading materials and transport to Cape Town.
I am specifically requesting you to assist in getting people of goodwill to assist in this regard. The registration will have to be done by the end of January 2005 for him to be accepted. The Episcopal Scholarship Programme has been approached for assistance. Some contribution may come from the scholarship but it will not meet this entire required sum. To my knowledge, the programme only funds members of the church for the academic training and not the registration fees. I mean that because the funds are released long after the registration period is past.
Bishop James L. Davis already knows about this situation. I do not know what he is going to be doing about it. I am doing this in order that he may be assisted to respond to the need of this brother. I have not spoken to Bishop Davis but I believe he would not be opposed to any goodwill manifested through this initiative. Should there be any person or local church that is willing to help, I request that they get in touch with Bishop James L. Davis in Atlanta, GA. I believe, as the leader of the District, he will be more than able to administer the contributions that may come as result of this request.
Bishop Davis' contact details are:
Mobile phone # (404) 606 2282
Email: pnpass@aol.com
I thank you for your understanding and in the knowledge that you will find it helpful to extend your hand of fellowship towards this need. Since I am on holidays, I will, in most of the times, be accessible by phone. My mobile phone number is as provided below and may also be accessed at this other one for further information # +27 82 557 1798.
Once again, remember that I am on my knees, in prayer, for your health, strength, peace and joy during this season.
Because He Lives, I am
Rev. Teboho G. Klaas
Acting Director: HIV/AIDS Programme(Executive Assistant to General Secretary)
South African Council of Churches
9th Floor, Khotso House
62 Marshall House,
Johannesburg 2001
Tel: +27 11 241 7811/2/6
Fax: +27 11 838 4818 or +27 11 492 4818
Mobile: +27 82 412 2960
Email: tgk@sacc.org.za
THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER ONLINE (12/23/04)
1. WARD AME CHURCH CHOIR WILL APPEAR ON THE TONIGHT SHOW WITH JAY LENO. THE SHOW AIRS TONIGHT, DECEMBER 23RD:
We are pleased and proud to share with you that Rev. Sylvester Laudermill and the Ward AME Church Choir from Los Angeles will be the special musical guests on the Tonight Show with Jay Leno Thursday December 23rd. The show airs on NBC beginning at 11:35 p.m.
Yours in the Joy of Jesus
Pastor Mike
2. BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
Bereavement Notice Update:Mrs. Iris Jenkins, mother of the Reverend James O. Williams, Sr., Presiding Elder of the Daytona Beach District, Central Florida Conference, Eleventh Episcopal District
The funeral services for Mrs. Iris Jenkins, mother of Reverend James O. Williams, Sr., Presiding Elder of the Daytona Beach District, Eleventh Episcopal District, will be held on Wednesday, December 29, 2004 at 11 a.m. at St. John Missionary Baptist Church, Orlando, Florida.
Condolences can still be sent to:
Reverend James O. Williams, Sr.
9142 Royal Gate DriveWindermere, Florida 34786
(407) 578-0099 (home)(407) 578-3004 (fax)
God Bless!Ora L. Easley, PresidentCONN-M-SWAWO +PK'SEmail: Amespouses1@aol.com
Phone: (615) 837-9736Fax: (615) 833-3781
WEBSITES: http://www.amemswwpk.orghttp://www.connmswawo3.com
3. AN APPEAL FROM THE REVEREND TEBOHO G. KLASS:
The reason I write this email to you is to request your assistance in identifying persons or local churches that may be willing to be a blessing to one of our young people who has goal to be a medical doctor in South Africa. He is a son of late Pastor in the East Conference (19th Episcopal), who passed away in the middle of 1993 - Rev. Maloisane. His son has been living with his mother, working his educational advancement to reach matric (Grade 12). He applied to a university in Cape Town, as his indication of a career path in medicine, and the university has accepted his application pending the final results and the fees for registration. The final results of his matric examinations are due to be released on December 29th, 2004. He is dependant on the income of his mother to have the funds for his registration. Unfortunately, just a month ago, his mother who is an assistant in a doctor' surgery has been informed that she will no longer be employed at the beginning of next year. There will no longer be an income, meagre as it was, as a result of this unfortunate announcement. In order to register, he will have to pay $1,550 (approximately ZAR 10,000), which will exclude accommodation, reading materials and transport to Cape Town.
I am specifically requesting you to assist in getting people of goodwill to assist in this regard. The registration will have to be done by the end of January 2005 for him to be accepted. The Episcopal Scholarship Programme has been approached for assistance. Some contribution may come from the scholarship but it will not meet this entire required sum. To my knowledge, the programme only funds members of the church for the academic training and not the registration fees. I mean that because the funds are released long after the registration period is past.
Bishop James L. Davis already knows about this situation. I do not know what he is going to be doing about it. I am doing this in order that he may be assisted to respond to the need of this brother. I have not spoken to Bishop Davis but I believe he would not be opposed to any goodwill manifested through this initiative. Should there be any person or local church that is willing to help, I request that they get in touch with Bishop James L. Davis in Atlanta, GA. I believe, as the leader of the District, he will be more than able to administer the contributions that may come as result of this request.
Bishop Davis' contact details are:
Mobile phone # (404) 606 2282
Email: pnpass@aol.com
I thank you for your understanding and in the knowledge that you will find it helpful to extend your hand of fellowship towards this need. Since I am on holidays, I will, in most of the times, be accessible by phone. My mobile phone number is as provided below and may also be accessed at this other one for further information # +27 82 557 1798.
Once again, remember that I am on my knees, in prayer, for your health, strength, peace and joy during this season.
Because He Lives, I am
Rev. Teboho G. Klaas
Acting Director: HIV/AIDS Programme(Executive Assistant to General Secretary)
South African Council of Churches
9th Floor, Khotso House
62 Marshall House,
Johannesburg 2001
Tel: +27 11 241 7811/2/6
Fax: +27 11 838 4818 or +27 11 492 4818
Mobile: +27 82 412 2960
Email: tgk@sacc.org.za
We are pleased and proud to share with you that Rev. Sylvester Laudermill and the Ward AME Church Choir from Los Angeles will be the special musical guests on the Tonight Show with Jay Leno Thursday December 23rd. The show airs on NBC beginning at 11:35 p.m.
Yours in the Joy of Jesus
Pastor Mike
2. BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
Bereavement Notice Update:Mrs. Iris Jenkins, mother of the Reverend James O. Williams, Sr., Presiding Elder of the Daytona Beach District, Central Florida Conference, Eleventh Episcopal District
The funeral services for Mrs. Iris Jenkins, mother of Reverend James O. Williams, Sr., Presiding Elder of the Daytona Beach District, Eleventh Episcopal District, will be held on Wednesday, December 29, 2004 at 11 a.m. at St. John Missionary Baptist Church, Orlando, Florida.
Condolences can still be sent to:
Reverend James O. Williams, Sr.
9142 Royal Gate DriveWindermere, Florida 34786
(407) 578-0099 (home)(407) 578-3004 (fax)
God Bless!Ora L. Easley, PresidentCONN-M-SWAWO +PK'SEmail: Amespouses1@aol.com
Phone: (615) 837-9736Fax: (615) 833-3781
WEBSITES: http://www.amemswwpk.orghttp://www.connmswawo3.com
3. AN APPEAL FROM THE REVEREND TEBOHO G. KLASS:
The reason I write this email to you is to request your assistance in identifying persons or local churches that may be willing to be a blessing to one of our young people who has goal to be a medical doctor in South Africa. He is a son of late Pastor in the East Conference (19th Episcopal), who passed away in the middle of 1993 - Rev. Maloisane. His son has been living with his mother, working his educational advancement to reach matric (Grade 12). He applied to a university in Cape Town, as his indication of a career path in medicine, and the university has accepted his application pending the final results and the fees for registration. The final results of his matric examinations are due to be released on December 29th, 2004. He is dependant on the income of his mother to have the funds for his registration. Unfortunately, just a month ago, his mother who is an assistant in a doctor' surgery has been informed that she will no longer be employed at the beginning of next year. There will no longer be an income, meagre as it was, as a result of this unfortunate announcement. In order to register, he will have to pay $1,550 (approximately ZAR 10,000), which will exclude accommodation, reading materials and transport to Cape Town.
I am specifically requesting you to assist in getting people of goodwill to assist in this regard. The registration will have to be done by the end of January 2005 for him to be accepted. The Episcopal Scholarship Programme has been approached for assistance. Some contribution may come from the scholarship but it will not meet this entire required sum. To my knowledge, the programme only funds members of the church for the academic training and not the registration fees. I mean that because the funds are released long after the registration period is past.
Bishop James L. Davis already knows about this situation. I do not know what he is going to be doing about it. I am doing this in order that he may be assisted to respond to the need of this brother. I have not spoken to Bishop Davis but I believe he would not be opposed to any goodwill manifested through this initiative. Should there be any person or local church that is willing to help, I request that they get in touch with Bishop James L. Davis in Atlanta, GA. I believe, as the leader of the District, he will be more than able to administer the contributions that may come as result of this request.
Bishop Davis' contact details are:
Mobile phone # (404) 606 2282
Email: pnpass@aol.com
I thank you for your understanding and in the knowledge that you will find it helpful to extend your hand of fellowship towards this need. Since I am on holidays, I will, in most of the times, be accessible by phone. My mobile phone number is as provided below and may also be accessed at this other one for further information # +27 82 557 1798.
Once again, remember that I am on my knees, in prayer, for your health, strength, peace and joy during this season.
Because He Lives, I am
Rev. Teboho G. Klaas
Acting Director: HIV/AIDS Programme(Executive Assistant to General Secretary)
South African Council of Churches
9th Floor, Khotso House
62 Marshall House,
Johannesburg 2001
Tel: +27 11 241 7811/2/6
Fax: +27 11 838 4818 or +27 11 492 4818
Mobile: +27 82 412 2960
Email: tgk@sacc.org.za
12/20/2004
THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER ONLINE (12/20/04)
NOTE FROM THE EDITOR:
I heard it again, an AME preacher stating that he was going to read
from the100th "Division of Psalms." He meant to say that he was
reading from Psalm 100 or "the 100th Psalm. The book of Psalms has
only 5 divisions. I will give the full explanation on the Psalms and
when it is appropriate to use the plural (Psalms) or the singular
(Psalm).
(Read the full article in The Christian Recorder)
THE JUDICIAL COUNCIL 2004-2112:
Atty. Patricia M. Mayberry (President)*
Atty. Priscilla J. Green (Vice President)*
Rev. Franklin E. Breckenridge, Esq. (Secretary)*
Rev. Dr. Granville W. Reed, III (Assistant Secretary)*
Dr. J. B. Flowers, Jr. (Treasurer)**
Rev. Dr. Leeomia W. Kelly (Chaplain)**
Atty. Rosemarie Rhodes-Miller (Member)*
Atty. Benjamin Edwards (Member)*
Judge Vonciel Jones Hill (Member)*
Alternates
Judge Tania E. Wright (Lay)**
Rev. Glenda Hodges (Ministerial)**
Rev. Delman Howard (Ministerial)**
*Term expires 2008
** Term expires 2112
(I hope that I have it right this time)
THE FOLLOWING DYNAMIC FEMALE MINISTERS WILL PREACH AT SAINT PAUL AME CHURCH, VALDOSTA, GEORGIA:
- The Rev. Carla Carter Jordan, Pastor of St. Phillip AME, Valdosta, February 6, 2005: 8 a.m.
- Rev. Jacqueline D. Smith, Presiding Elder of the Albany-Valdosta District, February 6, 2005: 11:00 a.m.
- The Rev. Shirley Strawter, Pastor of Miller Chapel, Sumner, GA. February 13, 2005: 11:00 a.m.: -
- Sister Adrienne Copeland, Licentiate, Bethlehem AME, Cairo, GA.February 20, 2005: 8:00 AM: -
- The Rev. Elizabeth Yates, Greater Tanner Chapel AME, Quincy, FL. February 20, 2005: 11:00 a.m.: (Founders Day Celebration)
That wraps up our "Sista's of the Word" schedule.
YOUNG WILLIE WEARY, JR IDENTIFIED AS AN OUTSTANDING YOUNG SCHOLAR:
Willie Weary, Jr., son of Rev. Willie and Mrs. Jackie Weary, has been identified as an outstanding young scholar and nominated and selected to attend the National Youth Leadership Forum on Medicine where more than 700 high school students from 48 states and 16 countries will attend sessions during the summer and experience firsthand what it is like to be a physician.
Willie Weary, Jr., was nominated by Mrs. Sue Park of Central High School, Tulsa, Oklahoma where he is a sophomore and very active in the drama club where he has won numerous awards, President of his Sophomore Class and President of the Principle's Advisory Board where he has served for 2 years. He is also local President of YPD at St. John A.M.E. Church, Recording Secretary of the Central Northeast Oklahoma Conference YPD and recently, Willie, Jr. has recently been accepted into the Quarterly Conference at the age of 16 and will be of great assist to his Father, 1-2 Sundays a month at his new Appointment, Camp
Chapel A.M.E. Church, Tulsa, Oklahoma.
Willie's nomination to this program is reserved for the highest achieving students in America,
who exhibit exceptional leadership potential as well as an interest and an aptitude for a career in medicine according to the letter received by the Rev. & Mrs. Weary about Willie, Jr. from the Director of National Center for Primary Care and Former U.S. Surgeon General and Assistant Secretary for Health.
Kudos to Willie Weary, Jr. for his accomplishments and achievements.
NEWS FROM THE VIRGINIA ANNUAL CONFERENCE:
MERRY CHRISTMAS AND A HAPPY NEW YEAR FROM THE VIRGINIA ANNUAL
CONFERENCE.
We recently celebrated Christmas with Bishop and Mrs. Richardson on December 16,2004 at Captain George's restaurant in Colonial Williamsburg, Virginia. The evening was filled with fun, fellowship, and great dining with our Episcopal team.
Last August, this reporter wrote, "The best is yet to come" as I echoed the spirit of the 2nd Episcopal District, and the Virginia Annual Conference is no exception. Our presiding elders, the Reverends I.W. Knight and S.W. Williams continue to lead with distinction.
Indeed Christmas comes every year. Our prayer is that the spirit of
Christmas will continue throughout the New Year and the days to come.
CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
Date: 12/18/2004 8:30:02 PM Central Standard Time
From: Longcreek2 (The Reverend Sidney W. Williams)
I use this means to inform you of the demise of Mrs. Virginia McMillan, the wife of the Reverend Ira McMillan, pastor of First Trinity AMEC, Norfolk, Virginia. Family Address:835 13th StreetNewport News, Va. 23607[757] 247-6607
Funeral Service:Thursday, December 23, 2004 at 12 Noon
St. Paul AMEC
2500 Chestnut Ave.
Newport News, Va. 23607
Please remember the family in your prayers.
God Bless!Ora L. Easley, PresidentCONN-M-SWAWO +PK'SEmail: Amespouses1@aol.com
Phone: (615) 837-9736Fax: (615) 833-3781
WEBSITES: http://www.amemswwpk.org/CONN-M-SWAWO + P.K.'S Home Page: http://connmswawo3.com/index.html
AME Church Clergy Family Forum: http://connmswawo3.com/membership.html
CONN-M-SWAWO + P.K.'S Membership Listing
CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE. THE FUNERAL WAS HELD ON SATURDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2005:
Mrs. Virginia M. Giles, mother of the Rev. James H. Giles, Sr., pastor of St. Paul A.M.E. Church of Arkadelphia, Arkansas passed away on Tuesday, December 14,2004. Mrs. Virginia Giles is mother-in-law of Mrs. Sherrill Giles, Episcopal YPD Director of the 12th Episcopal
District.
ARRANGEMENTS:
Family HourFriday, December 17, 20046:00 PM- 7:00 p.m.
Williams Funeral Home
1617 West Caddo Street
Arkadelphia, AR 71923
Phone: 870-246-4211; FAX: 870-246-0509
Funeral was held on Saturday, Dec. 18, 2004 11:00 a.m.
St. Paul A.M.E. Church
1505 Caddo St.
Arkadelphia, AR 71923
Phone: 870-246-2820
Rev. James H. Giles, Sr., Pastor
Condolences may still be sent c/o The Giles Family to:
St. Paul A.M.E. Church
1505 Caddo St.
Arkadelphia, AR 71923
Please keep the family in your prayers.
From: Mrs. Piccola Washington
God Bless!Ora L. Easley, PresidentCONN-M-SWAWO +PK'SEmail: Amespouses1@aol.com
Phone: (615) 837-9736
Fax: (615) 833-3781
WEBSITES: http://www.amemswwpk.org/CONN-M-SWAWO + P.K.'S Home Page: http://connmswawo3.com/index.html
AME Church Clergy Family Forum: http://connmswawo3.com/membership.html
CONN-M-SWAWO + P.K.'S Membership Listing
REMINDERS:
- Founder's Day is celebrated each year in February. The Editor
would like for the February 2005 issues of The Christian Recorder to be
largely devoted to Richard and Sarah Allen and the other early leaders
of the African Methodist Episcopal Church. Request that you forward
articles ASAP. Any Founder's Day announcements will need to be
received immediately so that we can put your announcements in the end
of January edition of The Christian Recorder.
- March is Women's History Month. The Rev. Dr. Cecelia Williams
Bryant, Episcopal Supervisor of the Fifth Episcopal District "put a
bug" in my ear for an all women's issue of the Christian Recorder. I
have planned for that to happen in March 2005. I am hopeful that the
women of our Zion will see this as an opportunity and I hope that the
Women in Ministry (AMEC/WIM) will support this effort. Articles are
needed now and before February 5, 2005.
- The Christian Recorder will not be accepting articles or requests
for posts through the Christian Recorder Online website because the
posts are forwarded with all of the email addresses listed for anyone
to see. I do not want members' email addresses in a public venue. If
you want to post an article or announcement posted, send it directly
to: chsydnor@bellsouth.net
Articles are solicited and welcome.
I heard it again, an AME preacher stating that he was going to read
from the100th "Division of Psalms." He meant to say that he was
reading from Psalm 100 or "the 100th Psalm. The book of Psalms has
only 5 divisions. I will give the full explanation on the Psalms and
when it is appropriate to use the plural (Psalms) or the singular
(Psalm).
(Read the full article in The Christian Recorder)
THE JUDICIAL COUNCIL 2004-2112:
Atty. Patricia M. Mayberry (President)*
Atty. Priscilla J. Green (Vice President)*
Rev. Franklin E. Breckenridge, Esq. (Secretary)*
Rev. Dr. Granville W. Reed, III (Assistant Secretary)*
Dr. J. B. Flowers, Jr. (Treasurer)**
Rev. Dr. Leeomia W. Kelly (Chaplain)**
Atty. Rosemarie Rhodes-Miller (Member)*
Atty. Benjamin Edwards (Member)*
Judge Vonciel Jones Hill (Member)*
Alternates
Judge Tania E. Wright (Lay)**
Rev. Glenda Hodges (Ministerial)**
Rev. Delman Howard (Ministerial)**
*Term expires 2008
** Term expires 2112
(I hope that I have it right this time)
THE FOLLOWING DYNAMIC FEMALE MINISTERS WILL PREACH AT SAINT PAUL AME CHURCH, VALDOSTA, GEORGIA:
- The Rev. Carla Carter Jordan, Pastor of St. Phillip AME, Valdosta, February 6, 2005: 8 a.m.
- Rev. Jacqueline D. Smith, Presiding Elder of the Albany-Valdosta District, February 6, 2005: 11:00 a.m.
- The Rev. Shirley Strawter, Pastor of Miller Chapel, Sumner, GA. February 13, 2005: 11:00 a.m.: -
- Sister Adrienne Copeland, Licentiate, Bethlehem AME, Cairo, GA.February 20, 2005: 8:00 AM: -
- The Rev. Elizabeth Yates, Greater Tanner Chapel AME, Quincy, FL. February 20, 2005: 11:00 a.m.: (Founders Day Celebration)
That wraps up our "Sista's of the Word" schedule.
YOUNG WILLIE WEARY, JR IDENTIFIED AS AN OUTSTANDING YOUNG SCHOLAR:
Willie Weary, Jr., son of Rev. Willie and Mrs. Jackie Weary, has been identified as an outstanding young scholar and nominated and selected to attend the National Youth Leadership Forum on Medicine where more than 700 high school students from 48 states and 16 countries will attend sessions during the summer and experience firsthand what it is like to be a physician.
Willie Weary, Jr., was nominated by Mrs. Sue Park of Central High School, Tulsa, Oklahoma where he is a sophomore and very active in the drama club where he has won numerous awards, President of his Sophomore Class and President of the Principle's Advisory Board where he has served for 2 years. He is also local President of YPD at St. John A.M.E. Church, Recording Secretary of the Central Northeast Oklahoma Conference YPD and recently, Willie, Jr. has recently been accepted into the Quarterly Conference at the age of 16 and will be of great assist to his Father, 1-2 Sundays a month at his new Appointment, Camp
Chapel A.M.E. Church, Tulsa, Oklahoma.
Willie's nomination to this program is reserved for the highest achieving students in America,
who exhibit exceptional leadership potential as well as an interest and an aptitude for a career in medicine according to the letter received by the Rev. & Mrs. Weary about Willie, Jr. from the Director of National Center for Primary Care and Former U.S. Surgeon General and Assistant Secretary for Health.
Kudos to Willie Weary, Jr. for his accomplishments and achievements.
NEWS FROM THE VIRGINIA ANNUAL CONFERENCE:
MERRY CHRISTMAS AND A HAPPY NEW YEAR FROM THE VIRGINIA ANNUAL
CONFERENCE.
We recently celebrated Christmas with Bishop and Mrs. Richardson on December 16,2004 at Captain George's restaurant in Colonial Williamsburg, Virginia. The evening was filled with fun, fellowship, and great dining with our Episcopal team.
Last August, this reporter wrote, "The best is yet to come" as I echoed the spirit of the 2nd Episcopal District, and the Virginia Annual Conference is no exception. Our presiding elders, the Reverends I.W. Knight and S.W. Williams continue to lead with distinction.
Indeed Christmas comes every year. Our prayer is that the spirit of
Christmas will continue throughout the New Year and the days to come.
CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
Date: 12/18/2004 8:30:02 PM Central Standard Time
From: Longcreek2 (The Reverend Sidney W. Williams)
I use this means to inform you of the demise of Mrs. Virginia McMillan, the wife of the Reverend Ira McMillan, pastor of First Trinity AMEC, Norfolk, Virginia. Family Address:835 13th StreetNewport News, Va. 23607[757] 247-6607
Funeral Service:Thursday, December 23, 2004 at 12 Noon
St. Paul AMEC
2500 Chestnut Ave.
Newport News, Va. 23607
Please remember the family in your prayers.
God Bless!Ora L. Easley, PresidentCONN-M-SWAWO +PK'SEmail: Amespouses1@aol.com
Phone: (615) 837-9736Fax: (615) 833-3781
WEBSITES: http://www.amemswwpk.org/CONN-M-SWAWO + P.K.'S Home Page: http://connmswawo3.com/index.html
AME Church Clergy Family Forum: http://connmswawo3.com/membership.html
CONN-M-SWAWO + P.K.'S Membership Listing
CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE. THE FUNERAL WAS HELD ON SATURDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2005:
Mrs. Virginia M. Giles, mother of the Rev. James H. Giles, Sr., pastor of St. Paul A.M.E. Church of Arkadelphia, Arkansas passed away on Tuesday, December 14,2004. Mrs. Virginia Giles is mother-in-law of Mrs. Sherrill Giles, Episcopal YPD Director of the 12th Episcopal
District.
ARRANGEMENTS:
Family HourFriday, December 17, 20046:00 PM- 7:00 p.m.
Williams Funeral Home
1617 West Caddo Street
Arkadelphia, AR 71923
Phone: 870-246-4211; FAX: 870-246-0509
Funeral was held on Saturday, Dec. 18, 2004 11:00 a.m.
St. Paul A.M.E. Church
1505 Caddo St.
Arkadelphia, AR 71923
Phone: 870-246-2820
Rev. James H. Giles, Sr., Pastor
Condolences may still be sent c/o The Giles Family to:
St. Paul A.M.E. Church
1505 Caddo St.
Arkadelphia, AR 71923
Please keep the family in your prayers.
From: Mrs. Piccola Washington
God Bless!Ora L. Easley, PresidentCONN-M-SWAWO +PK'SEmail: Amespouses1@aol.com
Phone: (615) 837-9736
Fax: (615) 833-3781
WEBSITES: http://www.amemswwpk.org/CONN-M-SWAWO + P.K.'S Home Page: http://connmswawo3.com/index.html
AME Church Clergy Family Forum: http://connmswawo3.com/membership.html
CONN-M-SWAWO + P.K.'S Membership Listing
REMINDERS:
- Founder's Day is celebrated each year in February. The Editor
would like for the February 2005 issues of The Christian Recorder to be
largely devoted to Richard and Sarah Allen and the other early leaders
of the African Methodist Episcopal Church. Request that you forward
articles ASAP. Any Founder's Day announcements will need to be
received immediately so that we can put your announcements in the end
of January edition of The Christian Recorder.
- March is Women's History Month. The Rev. Dr. Cecelia Williams
Bryant, Episcopal Supervisor of the Fifth Episcopal District "put a
bug" in my ear for an all women's issue of the Christian Recorder. I
have planned for that to happen in March 2005. I am hopeful that the
women of our Zion will see this as an opportunity and I hope that the
Women in Ministry (AMEC/WIM) will support this effort. Articles are
needed now and before February 5, 2005.
- The Christian Recorder will not be accepting articles or requests
for posts through the Christian Recorder Online website because the
posts are forwarded with all of the email addresses listed for anyone
to see. I do not want members' email addresses in a public venue. If
you want to post an article or announcement posted, send it directly
to: chsydnor@bellsouth.net
Articles are solicited and welcome.
12/17/2004
THECHRISTIAN RECORDER ONLINE (12/17/04)
EDITOR'S NOTE:
- I will be leaving for Nashville on Tuesday, the Lord being my helper! As a soldier would say, "Three days and wakeup and I am out of here!" I will truly miss Hampton University, but I am excited about being the Editor of The Christian Recorder.
- The Christian Recorder will not be accepting articles or requests for posts through The Christian Recorder Online website because the posts are forwarded with all of the email addresses listed for anyone to see. I do not want members' email addresses in a public venue. If you want to post an article or announcement, send it directly to: chsydnor@bellsouth.net
- Founder's Day is celebrated each year in February. The Editor would like for the February 2005 issues of The Christian Recorder to be largely devoted to Richard and Sarah Allen and the other early leaders of the African Methodist Episcopal Church. Request that you forward articles ASAP. Any Founder's Day announcements will need to be received immediately so that we can put your announcements in the end of January edition of The Christian Recorder.
- March is Women's History Month. The Rev. Dr. Cecelia Williams Bryant, Episcopal Supervisor of the Fifth Episcopal District "put a bug" in my ear for an all women's issue of The Christian Recorder. I have planned for that to happen in March 2005. I am hopeful that the women of our Zion will see this as an opportunity and I hope that the Women in Ministry (AMEC/WIM) will support this effort. Articles are needed now and before February 5, 2005
THE LEXINGTON DISTRICT OF THE KENTUCKY ANNUAL CONFERENCE WEBSITE:
www.lexingtondistrict.com
EDITOR'S NOTE:
The Webmaster for The Lexington District website is the Reverend William R. T. Hale, pastor of Barnes Temple A.M.E. Church, 437 Fox Street, Elsmere, Kentucky 41018
www.barnestemple.com
Pastor Hale is one of the pioneers in the use of technology in the AME Church.
FIRST AME CHURCH, GREEENSBORO, NC CHRISTMAS WORSHIP SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENT:
First AME Church, Greensboro, North Carolina
Christmas Worship Service - Sunday, December 19, 2004, 11:00 A.M.
Marriott Hotel-Downtown
304 North Greene Street
Greensboro, NC 27410
Free Parking
Founder, Rev. Dr. M. Smith
2005 Worship Services
January 2, 2005
January 16, 2005
Directions to the Hotel
Telephone: 336-379-8000
TO: AME Pastors and Ministers of Greensboro and Surrounding Areas
From: Pulpit Forum of Clergy, Greensboro and Vicinity
All Pastors and Ministers are invited to attend a Celebration Dinner
FOR: New Pastors and their Spouses or Guests on Tuesday, December 21, 2004, 6:00 p.m. at the St. James Baptist Church, 536 West Florida Street, Greensboro, North Carolina 27406.
All Pastors and Ministers are invited to attend the Regular Pulpit Forum of Clergy, Greensboro and Vicinity at 4:30 p.m. at St. James Baptist Church.
THE REVEREND ROBERT STRODE SHARES INFORMATION ABOUT WATCH NIGHT SERVICE:
Many of you who live or grew up in Black communities in the United States have probably heard of "Watch Night Services," the gathering of the faithful in church on New Year's Eve. The service usually begins anywhere from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. and ends at midnight with the entrance of the New Year. Some folks come to church first, before going out to celebrate. For others, church is the only New Year's Eve event. Like many others, I always assumed that Watch Night was a fairly standard Christian religious service -- made a bit more Afro centric because that's what happens when elements of Christianity become linked with the Black Church.
Still, it seemed that predominately white Christian churches did not include Watch Night services on their calendars, but focused instead on Christmas Eve programs. In fact, there were instances where clergy in mainline denominations wondered aloud about the propriety of linking religious services with a secular holiday like New Year's Eve.
However, there is a reason for the importance of New Year's Eve services in African American congregations. The Watch Night Services in Black communities that we celebrate today can be traced back to gatherings on December 31, 1862, also known as "Freedom's Eve." On that night, Blacks came together in churches and private homes all across the nation, anxiously awaiting news that the emancipation Proclamation actually had become law. Then, at the stroke of midnight, it was January 1, 1863, and all slaves in the Confederate States were declared legally free. When the news was received, there were prayers, shouts and songs of joy as people fell to their knees and thanked God. Black folks have gathered in churches annually on New Year's Eve ever since, praising God for bringing us safely through another year.
It's been 141 years since that first Freedom's Eve and many of us were never taught the African American history of Watch Night, but tradition still brings us together at this time every year to celebrate "how we got over.
AUTHOR UNKNOWN
A POEM ENTITLED, "JUST ANOTHER DAY" BY THE REVEREND FAITH WATERS:
As I look out my window,
I see bright flashing Christmas lights,
And people walking with big bags in their hands.
I've even seen three Santas walk past!
I wonder what they're thinking?
Probably about all the things to do
Before Christmas gets here.
Where I live,
Christmas is just another day.
No singing reindeer, candy canes
Or gingerbread man,
Not even a tree.
And, of course, there will be no gifts from Santa.
I guess we were all bad again this year.
I hope my sister will be able to cook that chicken
She serves on special days.
Lisa does the best she can
Since Dad's dead
And we haven't seen Mom in a month.
We don't even have heat.
And there are five of us to feed.
I know things will get better
One day when Mom gets well.
I'll ask God to help us.
Until then,
Christmas is just another day.
Reverend Faith Waters (c) 12/01
fwfaithw@aol.com
- I will be leaving for Nashville on Tuesday, the Lord being my helper! As a soldier would say, "Three days and wakeup and I am out of here!" I will truly miss Hampton University, but I am excited about being the Editor of The Christian Recorder.
- The Christian Recorder will not be accepting articles or requests for posts through The Christian Recorder Online website because the posts are forwarded with all of the email addresses listed for anyone to see. I do not want members' email addresses in a public venue. If you want to post an article or announcement, send it directly to: chsydnor@bellsouth.net
- Founder's Day is celebrated each year in February. The Editor would like for the February 2005 issues of The Christian Recorder to be largely devoted to Richard and Sarah Allen and the other early leaders of the African Methodist Episcopal Church. Request that you forward articles ASAP. Any Founder's Day announcements will need to be received immediately so that we can put your announcements in the end of January edition of The Christian Recorder.
- March is Women's History Month. The Rev. Dr. Cecelia Williams Bryant, Episcopal Supervisor of the Fifth Episcopal District "put a bug" in my ear for an all women's issue of The Christian Recorder. I have planned for that to happen in March 2005. I am hopeful that the women of our Zion will see this as an opportunity and I hope that the Women in Ministry (AMEC/WIM) will support this effort. Articles are needed now and before February 5, 2005
THE LEXINGTON DISTRICT OF THE KENTUCKY ANNUAL CONFERENCE WEBSITE:
www.lexingtondistrict.com
EDITOR'S NOTE:
The Webmaster for The Lexington District website is the Reverend William R. T. Hale, pastor of Barnes Temple A.M.E. Church, 437 Fox Street, Elsmere, Kentucky 41018
www.barnestemple.com
Pastor Hale is one of the pioneers in the use of technology in the AME Church.
FIRST AME CHURCH, GREEENSBORO, NC CHRISTMAS WORSHIP SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENT:
First AME Church, Greensboro, North Carolina
Christmas Worship Service - Sunday, December 19, 2004, 11:00 A.M.
Marriott Hotel-Downtown
304 North Greene Street
Greensboro, NC 27410
Free Parking
Founder, Rev. Dr. M. Smith
2005 Worship Services
January 2, 2005
January 16, 2005
Directions to the Hotel
Telephone: 336-379-8000
TO: AME Pastors and Ministers of Greensboro and Surrounding Areas
From: Pulpit Forum of Clergy, Greensboro and Vicinity
All Pastors and Ministers are invited to attend a Celebration Dinner
FOR: New Pastors and their Spouses or Guests on Tuesday, December 21, 2004, 6:00 p.m. at the St. James Baptist Church, 536 West Florida Street, Greensboro, North Carolina 27406.
All Pastors and Ministers are invited to attend the Regular Pulpit Forum of Clergy, Greensboro and Vicinity at 4:30 p.m. at St. James Baptist Church.
THE REVEREND ROBERT STRODE SHARES INFORMATION ABOUT WATCH NIGHT SERVICE:
Many of you who live or grew up in Black communities in the United States have probably heard of "Watch Night Services," the gathering of the faithful in church on New Year's Eve. The service usually begins anywhere from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. and ends at midnight with the entrance of the New Year. Some folks come to church first, before going out to celebrate. For others, church is the only New Year's Eve event. Like many others, I always assumed that Watch Night was a fairly standard Christian religious service -- made a bit more Afro centric because that's what happens when elements of Christianity become linked with the Black Church.
Still, it seemed that predominately white Christian churches did not include Watch Night services on their calendars, but focused instead on Christmas Eve programs. In fact, there were instances where clergy in mainline denominations wondered aloud about the propriety of linking religious services with a secular holiday like New Year's Eve.
However, there is a reason for the importance of New Year's Eve services in African American congregations. The Watch Night Services in Black communities that we celebrate today can be traced back to gatherings on December 31, 1862, also known as "Freedom's Eve." On that night, Blacks came together in churches and private homes all across the nation, anxiously awaiting news that the emancipation Proclamation actually had become law. Then, at the stroke of midnight, it was January 1, 1863, and all slaves in the Confederate States were declared legally free. When the news was received, there were prayers, shouts and songs of joy as people fell to their knees and thanked God. Black folks have gathered in churches annually on New Year's Eve ever since, praising God for bringing us safely through another year.
It's been 141 years since that first Freedom's Eve and many of us were never taught the African American history of Watch Night, but tradition still brings us together at this time every year to celebrate "how we got over.
AUTHOR UNKNOWN
A POEM ENTITLED, "JUST ANOTHER DAY" BY THE REVEREND FAITH WATERS:
As I look out my window,
I see bright flashing Christmas lights,
And people walking with big bags in their hands.
I've even seen three Santas walk past!
I wonder what they're thinking?
Probably about all the things to do
Before Christmas gets here.
Where I live,
Christmas is just another day.
No singing reindeer, candy canes
Or gingerbread man,
Not even a tree.
And, of course, there will be no gifts from Santa.
I guess we were all bad again this year.
I hope my sister will be able to cook that chicken
She serves on special days.
Lisa does the best she can
Since Dad's dead
And we haven't seen Mom in a month.
We don't even have heat.
And there are five of us to feed.
I know things will get better
One day when Mom gets well.
I'll ask God to help us.
Until then,
Christmas is just another day.
Reverend Faith Waters (c) 12/01
fwfaithw@aol.com
12/13/2004
THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER ONLINE (12/13/04)
EDITOR' NOTE:
I will be returning to Hampton, Virginia later today to close out my affairs, i.e., submit final grades, etc. I will return to Nashville, Tennessee permanently next week.
My new email address: chsydnor@bellsouth.net
Please DELETE my Erols and Hampton University email addresses.
1. JUDICIAL COUNCIL, THE AFRICAN METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH, 2004-2008:
CLERGY:
Rev. Franklin E. Breckenridge, Esq. (Secretary)*
Rev. Dr. Granville W. Reed, III, (Assistant Secretary)*
Rev. Dr. Leeomia W. Kelly (Chaplain)**
Judge Vonciel Jones Hill (Member)**
LAY:
Atty. Patricia M. Mayberry (President)*
Atty. Priscilla J. Green (Vice President)*
Dr. J. B. Flowers, Jr. (Treasurer)**
Atty. Rosemarie Rhodes-Miller (Member)*
Atty. Benjamin Edwards (Member)*
* Terms expires 2008 ** Term expires 2012
2. AN INVITATION TO ALL:
AME MINISTERIAL ALLIANCE HOLIDAY CELEBRATION 3. INSPIRATIONAL MOMENT - FROM NEGATIVE TO POSITIVE:
Sometimes negative things in our lives defeat us because we handle them in a negative manner. Often we fail to make the bad things work for our good and to our advantage.
Remember the story of Joseph in the book of Genesis. He was the young man with the coat of many colors. His brothers were jealous of him and especially the relationship he had with his father. Joseph was thrown into a pit, sold into slavery, falsely accused, and put in jail; however, he didn't hold a grudge against the people who wronged him. Joseph found the positive benefits in his negative experiences, and went on to be a powerful leader in Egypt. He took what started out as a negative and turned it into a positive and it resulted into something good. He was handed "lemons" but added some "sugar" and made "lemonade."
We can do the same thing in our lives. It's the way we handle our difficulties that determines whether we will be defeated, or victorious! We can take the sour "lemons of life," add sugar (TRUST IN GOD) and water (THE LIVING WATER OF THE MASTER) and make "lemonade." The sour becomes sweet! The negative becomes positive!
Some people throw away stale bread, but to stale bread, add some milk, eggs, sugar, a pinch of salt, vanilla extract, and cinnamon and, voila, you have bread pudding! You can add the same ingredients to leftover rice and make rice pudding. You don't always have to "throw away" the negative events to bring peace into your lives.
Negative things and negative people may try to bring "the negatives" into our lives and may "mean it for evil," but our TRUST in God and the comfort of the LIVING WATER can instead make "the negatives" in our lives, positives! Promise yourself that you are going to have a positive week, live it, and mean it!
(Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III)
I will be returning to Hampton, Virginia later today to close out my affairs, i.e., submit final grades, etc. I will return to Nashville, Tennessee permanently next week.
My new email address: chsydnor@bellsouth.net
Please DELETE my Erols and Hampton University email addresses.
1. JUDICIAL COUNCIL, THE AFRICAN METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH, 2004-2008:
CLERGY:
Rev. Franklin E. Breckenridge, Esq. (Secretary)*
Rev. Dr. Granville W. Reed, III, (Assistant Secretary)*
Rev. Dr. Leeomia W. Kelly (Chaplain)**
Judge Vonciel Jones Hill (Member)**
LAY:
Atty. Patricia M. Mayberry (President)*
Atty. Priscilla J. Green (Vice President)*
Dr. J. B. Flowers, Jr. (Treasurer)**
Atty. Rosemarie Rhodes-Miller (Member)*
Atty. Benjamin Edwards (Member)*
* Terms expires 2008 ** Term expires 2012
2. AN INVITATION TO ALL:
AME MINISTERIAL ALLIANCE HOLIDAY CELEBRATION
WILL TAKE PLACE THIS FRIDAY, DECEMBER 17, 2004 AT 7:00 P.M.
AT THE HOME OF:
LESLIE AND RENEE WHITE
3766 CRESTWAY PLACE
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA 90043
Telephone: 323-291-9462
THIS WILL BE A GREAT OPPORTUNITY TO SPEND SOME RELAXING AND FUN TIME WITH OUR PREACHER COLLEAGUES.
DON'T MISS THE FOOD AND FUN PLEASE RSVP WITH PASTOR WHITE ASAP:
See you there!!
Sometimes negative things in our lives defeat us because we handle them in a negative manner. Often we fail to make the bad things work for our good and to our advantage.
Remember the story of Joseph in the book of Genesis. He was the young man with the coat of many colors. His brothers were jealous of him and especially the relationship he had with his father. Joseph was thrown into a pit, sold into slavery, falsely accused, and put in jail; however, he didn't hold a grudge against the people who wronged him. Joseph found the positive benefits in his negative experiences, and went on to be a powerful leader in Egypt. He took what started out as a negative and turned it into a positive and it resulted into something good. He was handed "lemons" but added some "sugar" and made "lemonade."
We can do the same thing in our lives. It's the way we handle our difficulties that determines whether we will be defeated, or victorious! We can take the sour "lemons of life," add sugar (TRUST IN GOD) and water (THE LIVING WATER OF THE MASTER) and make "lemonade." The sour becomes sweet! The negative becomes positive!
Some people throw away stale bread, but to stale bread, add some milk, eggs, sugar, a pinch of salt, vanilla extract, and cinnamon and, voila, you have bread pudding! You can add the same ingredients to leftover rice and make rice pudding. You don't always have to "throw away" the negative events to bring peace into your lives.
Negative things and negative people may try to bring "the negatives" into our lives and may "mean it for evil," but our TRUST in God and the comfort of the LIVING WATER can instead make "the negatives" in our lives, positives! Promise yourself that you are going to have a positive week, live it, and mean it!
(Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III)
12/11/2004
THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER ONLINE (12/11/04)
THE REVEREND DR. JAMES C. WADE, DIRECTOR OF THE DEPARTMENT OF CHURCH GROWTH AND DEVELOPMENT ANNOUNCES THE UPCOMING SEMINAR ON CHURCH GROWTH AND DEVELOPMENT:
The 2005 Seminar on Church Growth will be held on January 11- 14, 2005 at the Ocean Dunes Resort and Conference Center, 201 74th Avenue North, Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. The hotel reservation code": "Department of Church Growth and Development AMEC" Single room occupancy $72.00 per night; double room occupancy $82.50 per night. All reservations include full buffet breakfast.
Bishop Vashti Murphy McKenzie, President of the Council of Bishops will be the preacher for the Inaugural Worship Service. Other preachers will be: Bishop Preston Williams, Bishop Richard Norris, Bishop A.J. Richardson, the Reverends Dr. Johnny Barbour, the Reverend Dr. G.L Champion, and the Reverend Melvin Capers. The Seminar Theme: "Cultivating a People Whereby Evangelism Becomes a Way of Life."
Pre-Seminar Registration is $120.00; onsight Registration: $130.00. Make checks or money orders payable to: Department of Church Growth and Development AMEC and send payment to 280 Hernando, Memphis, Tennessee 38126
THE TEN COMMANDMENTS IN VERSE
Thou shalt have no gods but Me;
Before no idol bow thy knee;
Take not the name of God in vain;
Nor dare to Sabbath-day profane;
Give both thy parents honor due;
Take heed that thou no murder due;
Abstain from words and deeds unclean;
Nor steal tho' thou art poor and mean;
Nor make a willful lie, nor love it;
What is thy neighbor's dare not covet
(author unknown)
THE REVEREND RONALD OWENS PROVIDES ASSISTANCE FOR CHURCHES:
Working Together To Make Relationships BetterRelationships Matter provides speeches, seminars, and workshops for those looking to build stronger relationships. Research has been done on what makes relationships better, and what destroys them. Now the knowledge of relationship research and practical counseling experience is combined to form one of the most comprehensive and effective programs ever developed for building stronger relationships - Relationship Intervention Skills Knowledge.
(RISK)SEMINARS:The seminars are designed for the purpose of bringing people together to help build stronger relationships. Since a home, workplace, community and church require you to be in relationship with others, learning how to create an environment where you can flourish and grow is very important.
WORKSHOPS:The Relationship Intervention Skills Knowledge (RISK), workshops are designed for the purpose of leading groups in working together to make relationships better. The Crisis Intervention Skills Knowledge (CISK), workshops are designed for the purpose of leading groups in understanding and learning how to intervene with suicidal and abusive behaviors. These workshops can be designed for couples, churches, businesses, clubs, or any organization desiring to build stronger relationships. You will get a better understanding of others, which creates a better work and living environment. You will learn how to handle everyday conflicts easier, which leads to a better understanding of one another. You will learn the skills to resolve conflict and prevent bitterness from building up. Problems will no longer destroy your relationships because you will learn how to solve them. You will be equipped with the skills and knowledge to assist those in crisis, learn better coping skills.
TOPICS INCLUDE:
v Conflict resolution
Overcoming barriers
v Communications S
exual harassment
v Understanding differences
Teamwork
v Understanding your temperament
Forgiveness
v Understanding commitment
Leadershipv Problem solving
Building self-esteemv Negotiating for compatibility
Dealing with uncertainty
v Handling expectations
Developing interpersonal skills
v Understanding Grief
Coping with stress
v Oneness
Managing anger
v Separating issues from events
Suicide Awareness/Prevention
INFORMATION:Call today for scheduling.
Rev. Ronald L. Owens, MDiv, LCPC
(706) 830-6335
Counselor; Consultant; PastorP.O. Box 204058
U.S. Army Chaplain, Major (Retired)Augusta, GA 30917-4058
rowens4246@aol.com
The 2005 Seminar on Church Growth will be held on January 11- 14, 2005 at the Ocean Dunes Resort and Conference Center, 201 74th Avenue North, Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. The hotel reservation code": "Department of Church Growth and Development AMEC" Single room occupancy $72.00 per night; double room occupancy $82.50 per night. All reservations include full buffet breakfast.
Bishop Vashti Murphy McKenzie, President of the Council of Bishops will be the preacher for the Inaugural Worship Service. Other preachers will be: Bishop Preston Williams, Bishop Richard Norris, Bishop A.J. Richardson, the Reverends Dr. Johnny Barbour, the Reverend Dr. G.L Champion, and the Reverend Melvin Capers. The Seminar Theme: "Cultivating a People Whereby Evangelism Becomes a Way of Life."
Pre-Seminar Registration is $120.00; onsight Registration: $130.00. Make checks or money orders payable to: Department of Church Growth and Development AMEC and send payment to 280 Hernando, Memphis, Tennessee 38126
THE TEN COMMANDMENTS IN VERSE
Thou shalt have no gods but Me;
Before no idol bow thy knee;
Take not the name of God in vain;
Nor dare to Sabbath-day profane;
Give both thy parents honor due;
Take heed that thou no murder due;
Abstain from words and deeds unclean;
Nor steal tho' thou art poor and mean;
Nor make a willful lie, nor love it;
What is thy neighbor's dare not covet
(author unknown)
THE REVEREND RONALD OWENS PROVIDES ASSISTANCE FOR CHURCHES:
Working Together To Make Relationships BetterRelationships Matter provides speeches, seminars, and workshops for those looking to build stronger relationships. Research has been done on what makes relationships better, and what destroys them. Now the knowledge of relationship research and practical counseling experience is combined to form one of the most comprehensive and effective programs ever developed for building stronger relationships - Relationship Intervention Skills Knowledge.
(RISK)SEMINARS:The seminars are designed for the purpose of bringing people together to help build stronger relationships. Since a home, workplace, community and church require you to be in relationship with others, learning how to create an environment where you can flourish and grow is very important.
WORKSHOPS:The Relationship Intervention Skills Knowledge (RISK), workshops are designed for the purpose of leading groups in working together to make relationships better. The Crisis Intervention Skills Knowledge (CISK), workshops are designed for the purpose of leading groups in understanding and learning how to intervene with suicidal and abusive behaviors. These workshops can be designed for couples, churches, businesses, clubs, or any organization desiring to build stronger relationships. You will get a better understanding of others, which creates a better work and living environment. You will learn how to handle everyday conflicts easier, which leads to a better understanding of one another. You will learn the skills to resolve conflict and prevent bitterness from building up. Problems will no longer destroy your relationships because you will learn how to solve them. You will be equipped with the skills and knowledge to assist those in crisis, learn better coping skills.
TOPICS INCLUDE:
v Conflict resolution
Overcoming barriers
v Communications S
exual harassment
v Understanding differences
Teamwork
v Understanding your temperament
Forgiveness
v Understanding commitment
Leadershipv Problem solving
Building self-esteemv Negotiating for compatibility
Dealing with uncertainty
v Handling expectations
Developing interpersonal skills
v Understanding Grief
Coping with stress
v Oneness
Managing anger
v Separating issues from events
Suicide Awareness/Prevention
INFORMATION:Call today for scheduling.
Rev. Ronald L. Owens, MDiv, LCPC
(706) 830-6335
Counselor; Consultant; PastorP.O. Box 204058
U.S. Army Chaplain, Major (Retired)Augusta, GA 30917-4058
rowens4246@aol.com
12/10/2004
THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER ONLINE (12/10/04)
NOTE FROM THE EDITOR:
I am sorry about the multiple postings yesterday. The first post had some gibberish and each time I tried to make corrections, a new post was forwarded. I am posting differently now and that problem should be fixed. Yesterday was a learning experience and I believe that the Webmaster has me up to speed.
1. GREAT RELIGIOUS RESOURCES FOR CHRISTIAN CONGREGATIONS:
Put the web addresses in your browser and you will find some great worship resources.
NATIONAL COUNCIL OF CHURCHES HOMEPAGE:
http://www.ncccusa.org/
CHRISTMAS
http://www.ncccusa.org/nmu/mce/christmas_eve_celebration.pdf
NEW YEAR:
http://www.ncccusa.org/nmu/mce/new_years_eve.pdf
KWAANZA:
http://www.ncccusa.org/nmu/mce/kwanzaa.pdf
WOMEN'S DAY:
http://www.ncccusa.org/nmu/mce/womens_day.pdf
LENT AND EASTER:
http://www.ncccusa.org/nmu/mce/lent_and_easter.pdf
HOLY COMMUNION:
http://www.ncccusa.org/nmu/mce/celebrating_the_heritage.pdf
LIFT EVERY VOICE AND SING:
http://www.ncccusa.org/nmu/mce/lift_every_voice.pdf
AFROCENTRIC BIBLIOGRAPHY:
http://www.ncccusa.org/nmu/mce/bibliography.pdf
2. GENERAL MOTORS ACCEPTANCE CORPORATION WAS ONE OF THE SPONSORS FOR THE GENERAL BOARD MEETING / BISHOPS' COUNCIL:
The GMAC sponsorship went beyond displaying their product. They offered literature that would be helpful for many of our Church members. We, AMEs, buy cars, homes and a lot of things. When planning to purchase an automobile, you need a plan for vehicle financing, whether you plan to buy a GMAC product or from another dealer.
GMAC also works with home financing and will address local congregations. Appended below is a plan for vehicle financing.
Your Pathway to Vehicle Financing
The purpose of Your Pathway to Vehicle Financing is to provide easy-to-use materials in a "kit" for any interested organization to conduct fundamental educational sessions on topics relating specifically to vehicle financing and leasing.
All content is provided in English and in Spanish :
There are four main topics specific to vehicle financing and leasing:
Budget: What can I afford? Credit: How do I get and keep good credit?Options: How can I pay for it? Cash, lease or finance the vehicle - what do I need to know?Choices: How do I make informed choices at the dealership?
Even today, with a wealth of information "at our fingertips" via the Internet, adults - young and old alike - as well as driving-age students could benefit from more education about such important topics as:
How to research, negotiate and choose among financial alternatives;
Advantages and disadvantages of various financing and leasing options; and
Proper budgeting and assessing affordability before purchasing or leasing a vehicle.
Whether consumer experiences with automobile dealerships are favorable or unfavorable can often be traced to the consumer's level of understanding about the process and the power they have to negotiate and to make informed choices.
Although considerable financial educational materials are already available from AFSA Education Foundation there was previously nothing in the format of this new program that focuses so directly on vehicle financing and leasing at the dealership.
Examples of Use:
Community and religious organizations can order materials for membership meetings;
Schools can order materials to teach in classes or in after-school clubs;
The video alone can be used for public television broadcasts;
Automobile dealers may sponsor after-school or evening sessions.
The entire program with video and all exercises requires three to four hours to complete. A version is available on the Internet. Benefits offered by Your Pathway to Vehicle Financing
More people will make better decisions if they understand the importance of budgeting and credit, and the processes for getting and using credit wisely;
Participants will be more informed about the process of buying, financing or leasing a vehicle, and their options and choices at the dealership;
Knowledgeable consumers will more likely have a positive car buying or leasing experience; and
Sponsoring organizations can provide a valuable service to their communities, and their members.
In early tests people have responded very favorably to Your Pathway to Vehicle Financing:
"I thought I knew everything about buying a car. Boy was I wrong. Wonderful information." Participant
"Great presentation and handouts; videos were true-to-life." Participant
"I will suggest this program my church" "I'll be passing this information on to family and friends" Participant
"It was more than a pleasure to facilitate the session. The subject is dear to my heart for all, especially young adults. It is a well-organized program and it is clear that it is needed today." Facilitator
Your Pathway to Vehicle Financing includes:
Everything needed to advertise, promote and conduct an educational session. Materials are available in hard copy and on a Resource CD for facilitators to reproduce and customize if desired.
A video, with four ten-minute segments, is the foundation for the program. A number of written summaries and exercises reinforce and expand upon each video segment and provide participants with helpful take-home materials.
A Facilitator's Guide with step-by-step directions. The entire program is in a self-study format that allows facilitators without subject matter expertise to conduct sessions.
3. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
Mrs. Rosa Boykins, Widow of the Late Rev. James T. Boykins, passed away Saturday, December 4, 2004.
Funeral Arrangements:Saturday, Dec. 11th @10:00 a.m.
Greater Payne AMEC
1230 East 23rd StreetJacksonville, Florida 32206
Reverend Parker, PastorPhone: (904) 353-6015
Condolences may be sent to:Ms. Terry Boykins1128 East 23rd StJacksonville, Florida 32206(904) 353-3678
Services Entrusted to:
James Graham Mortuary, Inc.
3631 Moncrief Road
Jacksonville, Florida 32209
(904) 766-0436www.james-graham-mortuary.com
Please Remember the family in your prayers.
Submitted by Maggie L. Jones, PresidentEast Conference / 11th Episcopal District
God Bless!Ora L. Easley, PresidentCONN-M-SWAWO +PK'SEmail: Amespouses1@aol.comPhone: (615) 837-9736Fax: (615) 833-3781 WEB SITEShttp://www.amemswwpk.org/CONN-M-SWAWO + P.K.'S Home Pagehttp://connmswawo3.com/index.htmlAME Church Clergy Family Forumhttp://connmswawo3.com/membership.htmlCONN-M-SWAWO + P.K.'S Membership Listing
I am sorry about the multiple postings yesterday. The first post had some gibberish and each time I tried to make corrections, a new post was forwarded. I am posting differently now and that problem should be fixed. Yesterday was a learning experience and I believe that the Webmaster has me up to speed.
1. GREAT RELIGIOUS RESOURCES FOR CHRISTIAN CONGREGATIONS:
Put the web addresses in your browser and you will find some great worship resources.
NATIONAL COUNCIL OF CHURCHES HOMEPAGE:
http://www.ncccusa.org/
CHRISTMAS
http://www.ncccusa.org/nmu/mce/christmas_eve_celebration.pdf
NEW YEAR:
http://www.ncccusa.org/nmu/mce/new_years_eve.pdf
KWAANZA:
http://www.ncccusa.org/nmu/mce/kwanzaa.pdf
WOMEN'S DAY:
http://www.ncccusa.org/nmu/mce/womens_day.pdf
LENT AND EASTER:
http://www.ncccusa.org/nmu/mce/lent_and_easter.pdf
HOLY COMMUNION:
http://www.ncccusa.org/nmu/mce/celebrating_the_heritage.pdf
LIFT EVERY VOICE AND SING:
http://www.ncccusa.org/nmu/mce/lift_every_voice.pdf
AFROCENTRIC BIBLIOGRAPHY:
http://www.ncccusa.org/nmu/mce/bibliography.pdf
2. GENERAL MOTORS ACCEPTANCE CORPORATION WAS ONE OF THE SPONSORS FOR THE GENERAL BOARD MEETING / BISHOPS' COUNCIL:
The GMAC sponsorship went beyond displaying their product. They offered literature that would be helpful for many of our Church members. We, AMEs, buy cars, homes and a lot of things. When planning to purchase an automobile, you need a plan for vehicle financing, whether you plan to buy a GMAC product or from another dealer.
GMAC also works with home financing and will address local congregations. Appended below is a plan for vehicle financing.
Your Pathway to Vehicle Financing
The purpose of Your Pathway to Vehicle Financing is to provide easy-to-use materials in a "kit" for any interested organization to conduct fundamental educational sessions on topics relating specifically to vehicle financing and leasing.
All content is provided in English and in Spanish :
There are four main topics specific to vehicle financing and leasing:
Budget: What can I afford? Credit: How do I get and keep good credit?Options: How can I pay for it? Cash, lease or finance the vehicle - what do I need to know?Choices: How do I make informed choices at the dealership?
Even today, with a wealth of information "at our fingertips" via the Internet, adults - young and old alike - as well as driving-age students could benefit from more education about such important topics as:
How to research, negotiate and choose among financial alternatives;
Advantages and disadvantages of various financing and leasing options; and
Proper budgeting and assessing affordability before purchasing or leasing a vehicle.
Whether consumer experiences with automobile dealerships are favorable or unfavorable can often be traced to the consumer's level of understanding about the process and the power they have to negotiate and to make informed choices.
Although considerable financial educational materials are already available from AFSA Education Foundation there was previously nothing in the format of this new program that focuses so directly on vehicle financing and leasing at the dealership.
Examples of Use:
Community and religious organizations can order materials for membership meetings;
Schools can order materials to teach in classes or in after-school clubs;
The video alone can be used for public television broadcasts;
Automobile dealers may sponsor after-school or evening sessions.
The entire program with video and all exercises requires three to four hours to complete. A version is available on the Internet. Benefits offered by Your Pathway to Vehicle Financing
More people will make better decisions if they understand the importance of budgeting and credit, and the processes for getting and using credit wisely;
Participants will be more informed about the process of buying, financing or leasing a vehicle, and their options and choices at the dealership;
Knowledgeable consumers will more likely have a positive car buying or leasing experience; and
Sponsoring organizations can provide a valuable service to their communities, and their members.
In early tests people have responded very favorably to Your Pathway to Vehicle Financing:
"I thought I knew everything about buying a car. Boy was I wrong. Wonderful information." Participant
"Great presentation and handouts; videos were true-to-life." Participant
"I will suggest this program my church" "I'll be passing this information on to family and friends" Participant
"It was more than a pleasure to facilitate the session. The subject is dear to my heart for all, especially young adults. It is a well-organized program and it is clear that it is needed today." Facilitator
Your Pathway to Vehicle Financing includes:
Everything needed to advertise, promote and conduct an educational session. Materials are available in hard copy and on a Resource CD for facilitators to reproduce and customize if desired.
A video, with four ten-minute segments, is the foundation for the program. A number of written summaries and exercises reinforce and expand upon each video segment and provide participants with helpful take-home materials.
A Facilitator's Guide with step-by-step directions. The entire program is in a self-study format that allows facilitators without subject matter expertise to conduct sessions.
3. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
Mrs. Rosa Boykins, Widow of the Late Rev. James T. Boykins, passed away Saturday, December 4, 2004.
Funeral Arrangements:Saturday, Dec. 11th @10:00 a.m.
Greater Payne AMEC
1230 East 23rd StreetJacksonville, Florida 32206
Reverend Parker, PastorPhone: (904) 353-6015
Condolences may be sent to:Ms. Terry Boykins1128 East 23rd StJacksonville, Florida 32206(904) 353-3678
Services Entrusted to:
James Graham Mortuary, Inc.
3631 Moncrief Road
Jacksonville, Florida 32209
(904) 766-0436www.james-graham-mortuary.com
Please Remember the family in your prayers.
Submitted by Maggie L. Jones, PresidentEast Conference / 11th Episcopal District
God Bless!Ora L. Easley, PresidentCONN-M-SWAWO +PK'SEmail: Amespouses1@aol.comPhone: (615) 837-9736Fax: (615) 833-3781 WEB SITEShttp://www.amemswwpk.org/CONN-M-SWAWO + P.K.'S Home Pagehttp://connmswawo3.com/index.htmlAME Church Clergy Family Forumhttp://connmswawo3.com/membership.htmlCONN-M-SWAWO + P.K.'S Membership Listing
12/09/2004
THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER ONLINE (12/9/04)
1. FOR YOUR INFORMATION (FYI):
The African Methodist Episcopal Church as 2.5 - 3 million members, yet the subscription rate for The Christian Recorder is a little over 5000, and the subscription rate for the AME Review is under 5000. Both of those publications belong the you, the members of the African Methodist Episcopal Church. We can do better! I know that we can! We must support our own!
We will share more about the implementation of a subscription drive later.
2. SUBSCRIBE TO THE ONLINE CHRISTIAN RECORDER AS FOLLOWS:
Go to www.the-christian-recorder.org and put in your name and email address, then scroll down and hit, SUBMIT. Respond to the reply message that you will receive. And that's it! It's free and doesn't cost you a penny!
My new email address: chsydnor@bellsouth.net Please DELETE my old email address: chsydnor@erols.com My home telephone number: 615.665-4462
3. ABBREVIATED REPORT FROM THE GENERAL BOARD MEETING HELD IN NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE, DECEMBER 6 - 8, 2004:
The General Board Meeting / Bishops' Council was held at the Opryland Hotel which has to be one of the largest, if not the largest, hotels in America.
The attendees were told of the passing of Bishop C.E. Thomas, who died on Monday morning, December 6, 2004 and of the passing of Sister Dollie Doctor Brown, mother-in-law of Dr. George F. Flowers, Secretary-Treasurer, Department of Missions (Global Witness & Ministry) and the mother of Mrs. Phoenicia Brown. Prayer support was offered for both families.
We also learned of the death of the mother of Brother Eric Stradford. Information will be forwarded upon receipt.
The Bishops, General Officers and Connectional Officers were introduced and the Senior Bishop, the Right Reverend Phillip R. Cousin was introduced and received a rousing standing ovation. He addressed the following issues:
- Connectionalism or Denominationalism
- Neo-Pentecostalism or Traditionalism
- Worship, praise, liturgy
- Fiscal stability
- "We must find streams of revenue beyond the offering plate."
- Indigenization, redistricting, whether to expand or downsize.
Bishop Cousin said that, "We are faced with a personal crisis" and went on to say that the local and connectional Church must find new ways of funding its programs.
He spoke about the winds of change and cautioned the strong winds can be destructive. Bishop Cousin intoned, "If we are faithful, when the wind blows, we will bend, but never break. He went on to say, "In order to withstand the winds of change, it's imperative that the Church remain faithful!"
Bishop Cousin recalled that he had seen the winds of change in 1948, 1972, and feels that the winds of change are "in the air" in 2004.
Bishop Cousin went on to say that, "When I saw the winds of change in 1948 and 1972, I thought that a new day was on the horizon in African Methodism. Bishop Cousin opined that, "The African Methodist Episcopal Church is still where we were and the Church has not adjusted to the times. We, as a Church, need to understand the work of the Holy Spirit. When we allow the Wind of the Holy Spirit move across our Zion, we will not let the African Methodist Episcopal Church die. The winds of change will not destroy us and will not break us. May we continue to grow, seek salvation and seek comfort and joy in the Holy Spirit."
Our Senior Bishop challenged us to be responsive to change and be committed to the workings of the Holy Spirit. He was emphatic that we need to "think outside of the box."
A response to address by the Senior Bishop was given by the Reverend Floyd Alexander, Presiding Elder in the Third Episcopal District. He responded that it was, "Good to hear the alarm sounded by our Senior Bishop. The challenge to us is to not let it stop here. We have an opportunity to meet the challenge and to know that if we keep ourselves on-focus that the winds may blow, but our Zion will not bend." Presiding Elder Alexander encouraged the Church to "Find ways of sharing."
He shared that in 1910 one of every four African Americans was a member of the African Methodist Episcopal Church. He admonished that A.M.E. Church had become complacent and had become more concerned about "those who had," and that we had lost concern for those "who did not have." When we, as a Church remained true to the principles of our founder, Richard Allen, we grew, and when we focused away from the principles of our founder, we lost some of our growth potential. The Presiding Elder encouraged us to be in prayer and fasting about the issues about raised by Bishop Cousin.
And a hymn was raised
At the conclusion of the Presiding Elder Floyd Alexander's comments, Bishop Richard Allen Chappelle, Sr., the President of the General Board raised the hymn, "There's a Sweet, Sweet Spirit in this Place."
The General Board was ready to do the work of the Church.
Brother Jesse Boyd, Connectional Lay President requested that a laity be given an opportunity to respond to Bishop Cousin's Address. He was allowed to do so and did so on the following day.
The business of the General Board
One could sense the "winds of change" that Bishop Cousin mentioned in his Address. There was spirit of openness and cooperation. There seemed, to me, to be a spirit of camaraderie among the Bishops and the General Officers. The ministerial and lay members of the General Board were faithful to the work entrusted to them. I heard that about 60% of the members of the General Board were new. They were at their assigned seats and were faithful in their attendance. The "meetings in the hallways" were, by and large, visitors.
Bishop A.J. Richardson reminded us that the correct designation on what has been formally referred to as the Commission on Higher Education should properly be referred to as, Commission on Seminaries, Universities, Colleges and Schools (Higher Education).
The breakout sessions of the various Commissions were productive and will benefit the church and enhance the ministry of the Church was evidenced by their reports back to the full body. All Commission reports were typed and passed out to all of the members of the General Board so that they can go to their Districts and Conferences and share you what went on in Nashville. This General Board / Bishops' Council was about business and the participants were responsive to the challenge given by our Senior Bishop, the Right Reverend Phillip R. Cousin. There were no secrets.
And speaking about secrets, Bishop McKinley Young and the members of the 11th Episcopal District are to be commended for their openness in sharing with the General Board about the potential loss of accreditation by Edward Waters College. Bishop Young and the members of the Board of Trustees at EWC have been professional and responsible in working with the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS). Keep them in your prayers and know that they are doing everything that they can do to avert the loss of accreditation. (More information later in the printed version of The Christian Recorder).
And the Investiture of Bishop Vashti Murphy McKenzie as President of the Council of Bishops!!!!
If you were not there, you missed an important moment in the history of the African Methodist Episcopal Church. 1500 plus church folk from all over the United States, Africa and the Caribbean in the ambience of the Opryland Resort and Convention Center. We are a global Church and it was a global affair. First class! On time! An example of how to "do it right." Organized! Went off without a hitch! The banquet program booklet was regal. The master of ceremonies was radio personality and member of Lee chapel AME Church, Lelan Staton.
The speaker was awesome! Ms. Gwendolyn Elizabeth Boyd was the prophetess of the hour. It was a speech, an address, and a powerful sermon wrapped in Holy Ghost! The woman is an awesome speaker (preacher). I have requested her message so that I can publish it in the printed version of The Christian Recorder. It's too much to put in this limited space, but I have share several of her points: We have to be suspicious of politicians who pimp religion for political gain; pity and charity are condescending; three million African American men are in the criminal justice system, and there is presently still a 50% African American national drop-out rate in our high schools. And according to the 2002 census, 50% of the new HIV/AIDS cases are African American; and 72% of the news cases are Black American women. Ms. Boyd pointed out that we know why Black women, and others contract HIV/AIDS, but one of the reasons the increase for African American women is Black American men on the "low-down." She challenged us to not remain silent.
Well-known gospel singer Yolanda Adams electrified the banquet. We had church! That's all that needs to be said!
Bishop Vashti Murphy and Supervisor Stan Mckenzie were on-target and are caring leaders as evidenced by the support and attendance of the 13th Episcopal District. Bishop McKenzie walked the floor, as a queen, and greeted the attendees table by table. Even in that auspicious setting, she was the shepherd tending her flock. (More information later in the printed version of The Christian Recorder).
If you missed it, you missed a bit of history!
The public statement from the Bishops Council given by Bishop A.J. Richardson:
Bishop Richardson prefaced the report be saying that the full report will be released to The Christian Recorder, The Christian Recorder Online and the other AME publications. Briefly follows is the public report of the Bishops' Council:
- Commendation for the work that Bishop E. Earl McCloud, Jr. is doing in representing the African Methodist Episcopal Church with the Pan-Methodist Council.
- Prayer for Edward Waters College's appeal for reversal of the decision to withdraw accreditation from EWC.
- Pastoral letter will be released from the Bishops of the Church about the recent presidential election, cultural matters, and will continue to encourage AME's to register to vote.
- Commended the members of the African Methodist Episcopal Church for your support of the 16th, 11th, and 9th Episcopal Districts' hurricane relief effort. The members of the AME Church raised and disbursed over $100,000.00.
- The Bishops are strategizing about ways to standardize and provide more support for Districts 14 - 20 (overseas Districts).
- The work of the Compilation Committee is ahead of pace. They will meet again on January 18, 2005 and project that the AME Book of Discipline will be ready for distribution and sale by the meeting of the next Bishops' Council / General Board Meeting that will be held in Dallas, Texas at the Windham Anatol hotel on June 26 - 29, 2005.
- Announced a partnership with GMAC (General Motors Acceptance Corporation), and let me say here that their sponsorship of the General Board / Bishops' Council was superb. GMAC pledges to support local Churches in the areas of fiscal education and financial management (More information will be shared in The Christian Recorder).
- The Bishops will provide support and guidance for the archiving if AME documents to preserve our historical legacy.
- Acknowledged the passing of Bishop Thomas, General officer Holman and General Officer Flower's mother-in-law.
The Christian Recorder and the Official Website for the African Methodist Episcopal Church will provide complete coverage of the General Board / Bishops' Council.
4. APPENDED BELOW IS A PORTION OF THE COMMISSION ON CHAPLAINS REPORT TO THE GENERAL BOARD:
The Chaplain's Commission met on Monday, December 6, 2004 in the Governor's Chamber B at the Opryland Resort and Convention Center in Nashville, TN. The Chairman, Bishop E. Earl McCloud, Jr., invited Bishop John Hurst Adams to address the chaplains on church relationships and responsibilities outlining the following principles:
- God and the things of God in First Place
- Affirm the Revelation of Jesus Christ
- Being the best at your vocation
- Seeking ethical excellence in the work environment
- Liberate, empower and bless the people
- Building relationships at every level
The session also included an introduction to the projected economic development initiative, which our Chair is pursuing and has been presented in several venues at this meeting.
Since the days of our first chaplain, Bishop Henry McNeil Turner, AME Chaplains have faithfully served God and Country with distinction. The vocation of the chaplain is quite unique. Often referred to as, "ministry beyond the sanctuary," we have the privilege of bringing the ministry of Christ, His love, guidance and most importantly, the assurance of his presence, within institutional settings that the traditional pastor may not be called or trained to provide.
During World War II, the United States government sought to acquire a quota of chaplains from the major church denominations in America in order to provide pastoral ministry in support of the war effort. In lieu of this request, chaplains were selected and endorsed by the AME Church, serving in the Army, Navy and eventually the Air Force.
AME Chaplains have also "answered the call" to service within the Korean War, Viet Nam, Desert Storm, Afghanistan and Iraq.
Most notably, the following chaplains have served in the Global War Against Terror:
U.S. ARMY:
- Lieutenant Colonel Roger Armstead
- Major Sandy McCleanMajor Ronald Owens (retired)
U. S. AIR FORCE
- Colonel Wilfred Bristol
- Lieutenant Colonel Oledia Bell
- Major Effson Bryant
- Captain Josephine Pinkney
U. S. NAVY
- Lieutenant Commander David Brown
- Lieutenant Commander (Select) Glenda Harrison
- Lieutenant Ted Valcourt
Chaplain (Lieutenant) Maurice Buford, (U. S. Navy) safely completed his second tour of duty in Iraq ministering to Sailors and Marines, some of which are the sons and daughters of the African Methodist Episcopal Church. We solicit your prayers on their behalf for God's protection and a safe return home.
AME Chaplains also serve within the Department of Veteran's Affairs, Bureau of Federal Prisons, South African and Zimbabwe National Defense Forces as well as within state and local hospitals, prisons and hospices.
There are hosts of retired AME Chaplains who continue to serve in a various aspects of ministry. Chaplain Kenneth White, who is one of the oldest chaplains in America, recently retired as a Presiding Elder in the Eleventh Episcopal District. At the age of 98, Chaplain White was able to attend the 47th Quadrennial Session of the African Methodist Episcopal Church, which was held in Indianapolis, Indiana in July of 2004. The AME Chaplain's Association paid homage to Chaplain White at the Ecumenical Service through a solemn and respectful flag-folding ceremony.
Also, Chaplain Calvin Sydnor, III, who is a retired U. S. Army Colonel, was elected as the Editor of the Christian Recorder.
Finally, we welcome Bishop E. Earl McCloud, Jr. as the new Ecumenical Officer and Endorsing Agent of the AME Church. We are looking forward to establishing and maintaining a great relationship with Bishop McCloud as he represents us in the Office of Ecumenical and Urban Affairs.
To God be the glory!
Respectfully submitted,
The AME Commission on Chaplains
Chaplain (COL) James S. Cooper (U.S. Army, retired)
Chaplain (COL) I. V. Tolbert (U.S. Air Force, retired)
Chaplain Leodis Strong (Department of Veteran's Affairs)
Chaplain Wilton E. Blake, I (Department of Veteran's Affairs)
Chaplain (LT. COL.) Howard L. Ashford (U.S Air Force)
Reverend John Q. Owens (Civilian Clergy)
Chaplain (LT) Wilbert Gamble (U.S. Navy)
Chaplain (LCDR) David Brown (U.S. Navy)
Chaplain (CAPT) John Morrison (U.S. Navy)
5. FUNERAL ARRANGEMENTS FOR THE LATE BISHOP CORNELIUS EGBERT THOMAS, THE 99TH BISHOP OF THE AFRICAN METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH:
SERVICE:
Friday, December 10, 2004
12:00 NOON
St. John African Methodist Episcopal Church
708 15th St.
North Birmingham, AL 35203
The Reverend Bobby Cox, Pastor Telephone: 205. 251- 3764; FAX 205.251-3757
Condolences may be sent to Mrs. Susie Thomas and family:
C/o St. John African Methodist Episcopal Church
708 15th St. NorthBirmingham, AL 35203
6. FUNERAL ANNOUNCEMENT FOR THE LATE MRS. DOLLIE DOCTOR BROWN:
Regretfully we share news of the passing of Mrs. Dollie Doctor Brown, wife of Rev. George Welch Brown, Sr. (Retired Presiding Elder, Beaufort District, 7th Episcopal District), mother of Mrs. Phoenicia B. Flowers, mother-in-law of Dr. George F. Flowers, Secretary-Treasurer, Department of Missions (Global Witness & Ministry), and mother of: Rev. George Welch Brown Jr. (Pastor, 7th Episcopal District), Rev. Nathaniel Brown (Pastor, 6th Episcopal District), Ms. Lila B. Nedd (General Board, AMEC and SC Conference Lay President), Mrs. Delores B. Richardson (Co-Editor Newsletter, 2nd Episcopal District Lay Organization and Local Lay President, Ward Memorial AMEC).
Mrs. Brown passed Sunday, December 5, 2004.
Funeral Services:Saturday, December 11, 200411:00 A.M. at:
St. Peter's AMEC, 4650 Sanders Ave.North Charleston, SC 29406
Phone: (843) 744-0688
Rev. George Welch Brown, Jr., Pastor
Condolences may be sent to:
The Rev. George Welch Brown, Sr. or the Reverend Dr. and Mrs. George F. Flowers
4435 Hwy. 162,
Charleston Executive Park
Hollywood, SC 29449,
1587 Savannah Highway, Suite A
Phone: (843) 556-8536, Charleston, SC 29403
Fax: (843) 554-4558; Phone: (843) 852-2645; Fax: (843) 852-2648
Services entrusted to:
Pasley's Mortuary
1115 5th Ave.,
Charleston, SC 29407
Phone: (843) 571-2300Fax: (843) 571-6322
In lieu of flowers, send donations to:
Bethel AMEC Building Fund
4595 Savannah Highway
Ravenel, SC 29470
Phone: (843) 571-3301
Please remember the Brown family in your prayers.
Submitted by: Angela Hawthorne Smith
Ora L. Easley, PresidentCONN-M-SWAWO +PK'SEmail: Amespouses1@aol.com
Phone: (615) 837-9736Fax: (615) 833-3781
WEBSITEShttp://www.amemswwpk.org/http://www.connmswawo3.org
7. FUNERAL ARRANGEMENTS FOR THE LATE MR. FRANKLIN FYKES:
Mr. Franklin Fykes, the Brother of Mrs. Gloria Bruce and Brother-in-law of Presiding Elder Y. Benjamin Bruce (11th Episcopal District).
Thursday, December 9, 2004
11:00 a.m.
Church of God In ChristJacksonville, Florida
Condolences may be sent to:
Dr. and Mrs. Y. Benjamin Bruce
8128 Banyan Blvd.
Orlando, FL 32819
Phone: (407) 352-1431Fax: (407) 363-7423
Email: YaleBruceSr@aol.com
Ora L. Easley, PresidentCONN-M-SWAWO +PK'SEmail: Amespouses1@aol.comPhone: (615) 837-9736Fax: (615) 833-3781
WEBSITES: http://www.amemswwpk.org/http://www.connmswawo3.org
8. THE REVEREND VICK EXPRESSES CONCERN OUR PASTORS WHO HAVE THE "RON ARTEST" SYNDROME:
It's been almost 2 weeks since the basketball brawl that happened at the Palace as the basketball game between the Pistons and the Pacers was winding down. Many of us have watched the video on the news as these players "lost it' and fought one another and even went into the stands to tangle with the fans. All the players were suspended for lengthy periods and expensive fines. The hardest hit was Ron Artest of the Indiana Pacers.
Ron Artest situation interest me because he was a walking bomb always about to explode. Although he is an excellent basketball player, his mental health took a back seat to his career. After it happened news reporters and fans alike were saying how they were not surprised by the actions. But do we wait until the pot boils over to put a lid over it?
As we continue to wrestle and debate the pros and cons of psychological evaluations in ministry, we must do our part to assist the "Ron Artests'" in our pulpits and those preparing to enter. We are our brother and sister keepers. Jesus admonishes and teaches us to turn the other cheek, not turn our heads!!!
9. YOUNG ADULTS, TECHNOLOGY, AND THE CHURCH:
In order for the African Methodist Episcopal Church (AME) to move forward, the Church must make an investment in youth related ministries. Although we have YPD, and RAYC, this is not enough. For most person after their participation in the YPD and RAYC Ministry they tend to fall behind. But if the church wants a future for tomorrow then we must start now preparing them.
Just Recently I attend the 2nd Episcopal District 10th Lay Convention, where I was one of the presenters. Although the attendance was good, I had hopes of seeing more young adults. During my Power Point Presentation I had an opportunity to pique the interest the workshop participants and I hope that I helped them to see that the time for "Real Ministry" is now. It would honestly be a shame for 217 years of exsistence to go "down the drain," because we left little of our legacy because of our failure to document what we have done.
(An excerpt from the presentation given by the Reverend Brandon Davis, supply pastor of Bishops' Memorial AME Church, Columbia, SC at the 2nd Episcopal District 10th Lay Convention)
10. IMPORTANT MESSAGE RECEIVED FROM THE REVEREND DR. LESLIE WHITE:
The national directory of cell phone numbers is about to be published. Once this happens, telemarketers will have access to your cell phone number. This will be even more annoying than the calls to your landline because in addition to being a disruption, these calls will also use your cellular minutes. You can register your cell phone by going on-line to http://www.donotcall.gov/ or by calling 888-382-1222 from the cell phone you wish to register. Those of you with work cell phones should register your phones as quickly as possible.
EDITOR'S NOTE:
When we first moved to Nashville, we received a host of calls from telemarketers. We had to register our new telephone number with the Do Not Call Registry. We no longer receive calls from telemarketers.
11. IF YOU WANT TO ADVERTISE YOUR MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR. EVENT YOU MAY CLICK ON THE LINK BELOW:
Click here to Add A 2005 MLK Event
http://www.king-raleigh.org/events/edit.cfm
The African Methodist Episcopal Church as 2.5 - 3 million members, yet the subscription rate for The Christian Recorder is a little over 5000, and the subscription rate for the AME Review is under 5000. Both of those publications belong the you, the members of the African Methodist Episcopal Church. We can do better! I know that we can! We must support our own!
We will share more about the implementation of a subscription drive later.
2. SUBSCRIBE TO THE ONLINE CHRISTIAN RECORDER AS FOLLOWS:
Go to www.the-christian-recorder.org and put in your name and email address, then scroll down and hit, SUBMIT. Respond to the reply message that you will receive. And that's it! It's free and doesn't cost you a penny!
My new email address: chsydnor@bellsouth.net Please DELETE my old email address: chsydnor@erols.com My home telephone number: 615.665-4462
3. ABBREVIATED REPORT FROM THE GENERAL BOARD MEETING HELD IN NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE, DECEMBER 6 - 8, 2004:
The General Board Meeting / Bishops' Council was held at the Opryland Hotel which has to be one of the largest, if not the largest, hotels in America.
The attendees were told of the passing of Bishop C.E. Thomas, who died on Monday morning, December 6, 2004 and of the passing of Sister Dollie Doctor Brown, mother-in-law of Dr. George F. Flowers, Secretary-Treasurer, Department of Missions (Global Witness & Ministry) and the mother of Mrs. Phoenicia Brown. Prayer support was offered for both families.
We also learned of the death of the mother of Brother Eric Stradford. Information will be forwarded upon receipt.
The Bishops, General Officers and Connectional Officers were introduced and the Senior Bishop, the Right Reverend Phillip R. Cousin was introduced and received a rousing standing ovation. He addressed the following issues:
- Connectionalism or Denominationalism
- Neo-Pentecostalism or Traditionalism
- Worship, praise, liturgy
- Fiscal stability
- "We must find streams of revenue beyond the offering plate."
- Indigenization, redistricting, whether to expand or downsize.
Bishop Cousin said that, "We are faced with a personal crisis" and went on to say that the local and connectional Church must find new ways of funding its programs.
He spoke about the winds of change and cautioned the strong winds can be destructive. Bishop Cousin intoned, "If we are faithful, when the wind blows, we will bend, but never break. He went on to say, "In order to withstand the winds of change, it's imperative that the Church remain faithful!"
Bishop Cousin recalled that he had seen the winds of change in 1948, 1972, and feels that the winds of change are "in the air" in 2004.
Bishop Cousin went on to say that, "When I saw the winds of change in 1948 and 1972, I thought that a new day was on the horizon in African Methodism. Bishop Cousin opined that, "The African Methodist Episcopal Church is still where we were and the Church has not adjusted to the times. We, as a Church, need to understand the work of the Holy Spirit. When we allow the Wind of the Holy Spirit move across our Zion, we will not let the African Methodist Episcopal Church die. The winds of change will not destroy us and will not break us. May we continue to grow, seek salvation and seek comfort and joy in the Holy Spirit."
Our Senior Bishop challenged us to be responsive to change and be committed to the workings of the Holy Spirit. He was emphatic that we need to "think outside of the box."
A response to address by the Senior Bishop was given by the Reverend Floyd Alexander, Presiding Elder in the Third Episcopal District. He responded that it was, "Good to hear the alarm sounded by our Senior Bishop. The challenge to us is to not let it stop here. We have an opportunity to meet the challenge and to know that if we keep ourselves on-focus that the winds may blow, but our Zion will not bend." Presiding Elder Alexander encouraged the Church to "Find ways of sharing."
He shared that in 1910 one of every four African Americans was a member of the African Methodist Episcopal Church. He admonished that A.M.E. Church had become complacent and had become more concerned about "those who had," and that we had lost concern for those "who did not have." When we, as a Church remained true to the principles of our founder, Richard Allen, we grew, and when we focused away from the principles of our founder, we lost some of our growth potential. The Presiding Elder encouraged us to be in prayer and fasting about the issues about raised by Bishop Cousin.
And a hymn was raised
At the conclusion of the Presiding Elder Floyd Alexander's comments, Bishop Richard Allen Chappelle, Sr., the President of the General Board raised the hymn, "There's a Sweet, Sweet Spirit in this Place."
The General Board was ready to do the work of the Church.
Brother Jesse Boyd, Connectional Lay President requested that a laity be given an opportunity to respond to Bishop Cousin's Address. He was allowed to do so and did so on the following day.
The business of the General Board
One could sense the "winds of change" that Bishop Cousin mentioned in his Address. There was spirit of openness and cooperation. There seemed, to me, to be a spirit of camaraderie among the Bishops and the General Officers. The ministerial and lay members of the General Board were faithful to the work entrusted to them. I heard that about 60% of the members of the General Board were new. They were at their assigned seats and were faithful in their attendance. The "meetings in the hallways" were, by and large, visitors.
Bishop A.J. Richardson reminded us that the correct designation on what has been formally referred to as the Commission on Higher Education should properly be referred to as, Commission on Seminaries, Universities, Colleges and Schools (Higher Education).
The breakout sessions of the various Commissions were productive and will benefit the church and enhance the ministry of the Church was evidenced by their reports back to the full body. All Commission reports were typed and passed out to all of the members of the General Board so that they can go to their Districts and Conferences and share you what went on in Nashville. This General Board / Bishops' Council was about business and the participants were responsive to the challenge given by our Senior Bishop, the Right Reverend Phillip R. Cousin. There were no secrets.
And speaking about secrets, Bishop McKinley Young and the members of the 11th Episcopal District are to be commended for their openness in sharing with the General Board about the potential loss of accreditation by Edward Waters College. Bishop Young and the members of the Board of Trustees at EWC have been professional and responsible in working with the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS). Keep them in your prayers and know that they are doing everything that they can do to avert the loss of accreditation. (More information later in the printed version of The Christian Recorder).
And the Investiture of Bishop Vashti Murphy McKenzie as President of the Council of Bishops!!!!
If you were not there, you missed an important moment in the history of the African Methodist Episcopal Church. 1500 plus church folk from all over the United States, Africa and the Caribbean in the ambience of the Opryland Resort and Convention Center. We are a global Church and it was a global affair. First class! On time! An example of how to "do it right." Organized! Went off without a hitch! The banquet program booklet was regal. The master of ceremonies was radio personality and member of Lee chapel AME Church, Lelan Staton.
The speaker was awesome! Ms. Gwendolyn Elizabeth Boyd was the prophetess of the hour. It was a speech, an address, and a powerful sermon wrapped in Holy Ghost! The woman is an awesome speaker (preacher). I have requested her message so that I can publish it in the printed version of The Christian Recorder. It's too much to put in this limited space, but I have share several of her points: We have to be suspicious of politicians who pimp religion for political gain; pity and charity are condescending; three million African American men are in the criminal justice system, and there is presently still a 50% African American national drop-out rate in our high schools. And according to the 2002 census, 50% of the new HIV/AIDS cases are African American; and 72% of the news cases are Black American women. Ms. Boyd pointed out that we know why Black women, and others contract HIV/AIDS, but one of the reasons the increase for African American women is Black American men on the "low-down." She challenged us to not remain silent.
Well-known gospel singer Yolanda Adams electrified the banquet. We had church! That's all that needs to be said!
Bishop Vashti Murphy and Supervisor Stan Mckenzie were on-target and are caring leaders as evidenced by the support and attendance of the 13th Episcopal District. Bishop McKenzie walked the floor, as a queen, and greeted the attendees table by table. Even in that auspicious setting, she was the shepherd tending her flock. (More information later in the printed version of The Christian Recorder).
If you missed it, you missed a bit of history!
The public statement from the Bishops Council given by Bishop A.J. Richardson:
Bishop Richardson prefaced the report be saying that the full report will be released to The Christian Recorder, The Christian Recorder Online and the other AME publications. Briefly follows is the public report of the Bishops' Council:
- Commendation for the work that Bishop E. Earl McCloud, Jr. is doing in representing the African Methodist Episcopal Church with the Pan-Methodist Council.
- Prayer for Edward Waters College's appeal for reversal of the decision to withdraw accreditation from EWC.
- Pastoral letter will be released from the Bishops of the Church about the recent presidential election, cultural matters, and will continue to encourage AME's to register to vote.
- Commended the members of the African Methodist Episcopal Church for your support of the 16th, 11th, and 9th Episcopal Districts' hurricane relief effort. The members of the AME Church raised and disbursed over $100,000.00.
- The Bishops are strategizing about ways to standardize and provide more support for Districts 14 - 20 (overseas Districts).
- The work of the Compilation Committee is ahead of pace. They will meet again on January 18, 2005 and project that the AME Book of Discipline will be ready for distribution and sale by the meeting of the next Bishops' Council / General Board Meeting that will be held in Dallas, Texas at the Windham Anatol hotel on June 26 - 29, 2005.
- Announced a partnership with GMAC (General Motors Acceptance Corporation), and let me say here that their sponsorship of the General Board / Bishops' Council was superb. GMAC pledges to support local Churches in the areas of fiscal education and financial management (More information will be shared in The Christian Recorder).
- The Bishops will provide support and guidance for the archiving if AME documents to preserve our historical legacy.
- Acknowledged the passing of Bishop Thomas, General officer Holman and General Officer Flower's mother-in-law.
The Christian Recorder and the Official Website for the African Methodist Episcopal Church will provide complete coverage of the General Board / Bishops' Council.
4. APPENDED BELOW IS A PORTION OF THE COMMISSION ON CHAPLAINS REPORT TO THE GENERAL BOARD:
The Chaplain's Commission met on Monday, December 6, 2004 in the Governor's Chamber B at the Opryland Resort and Convention Center in Nashville, TN. The Chairman, Bishop E. Earl McCloud, Jr., invited Bishop John Hurst Adams to address the chaplains on church relationships and responsibilities outlining the following principles:
- God and the things of God in First Place
- Affirm the Revelation of Jesus Christ
- Being the best at your vocation
- Seeking ethical excellence in the work environment
- Liberate, empower and bless the people
- Building relationships at every level
The session also included an introduction to the projected economic development initiative, which our Chair is pursuing and has been presented in several venues at this meeting.
Since the days of our first chaplain, Bishop Henry McNeil Turner, AME Chaplains have faithfully served God and Country with distinction. The vocation of the chaplain is quite unique. Often referred to as, "ministry beyond the sanctuary," we have the privilege of bringing the ministry of Christ, His love, guidance and most importantly, the assurance of his presence, within institutional settings that the traditional pastor may not be called or trained to provide.
During World War II, the United States government sought to acquire a quota of chaplains from the major church denominations in America in order to provide pastoral ministry in support of the war effort. In lieu of this request, chaplains were selected and endorsed by the AME Church, serving in the Army, Navy and eventually the Air Force.
AME Chaplains have also "answered the call" to service within the Korean War, Viet Nam, Desert Storm, Afghanistan and Iraq.
Most notably, the following chaplains have served in the Global War Against Terror:
U.S. ARMY:
- Lieutenant Colonel Roger Armstead
- Major Sandy McCleanMajor Ronald Owens (retired)
U. S. AIR FORCE
- Colonel Wilfred Bristol
- Lieutenant Colonel Oledia Bell
- Major Effson Bryant
- Captain Josephine Pinkney
U. S. NAVY
- Lieutenant Commander David Brown
- Lieutenant Commander (Select) Glenda Harrison
- Lieutenant Ted Valcourt
Chaplain (Lieutenant) Maurice Buford, (U. S. Navy) safely completed his second tour of duty in Iraq ministering to Sailors and Marines, some of which are the sons and daughters of the African Methodist Episcopal Church. We solicit your prayers on their behalf for God's protection and a safe return home.
AME Chaplains also serve within the Department of Veteran's Affairs, Bureau of Federal Prisons, South African and Zimbabwe National Defense Forces as well as within state and local hospitals, prisons and hospices.
There are hosts of retired AME Chaplains who continue to serve in a various aspects of ministry. Chaplain Kenneth White, who is one of the oldest chaplains in America, recently retired as a Presiding Elder in the Eleventh Episcopal District. At the age of 98, Chaplain White was able to attend the 47th Quadrennial Session of the African Methodist Episcopal Church, which was held in Indianapolis, Indiana in July of 2004. The AME Chaplain's Association paid homage to Chaplain White at the Ecumenical Service through a solemn and respectful flag-folding ceremony.
Also, Chaplain Calvin Sydnor, III, who is a retired U. S. Army Colonel, was elected as the Editor of the Christian Recorder.
Finally, we welcome Bishop E. Earl McCloud, Jr. as the new Ecumenical Officer and Endorsing Agent of the AME Church. We are looking forward to establishing and maintaining a great relationship with Bishop McCloud as he represents us in the Office of Ecumenical and Urban Affairs.
To God be the glory!
Respectfully submitted,
The AME Commission on Chaplains
Chaplain (COL) James S. Cooper (U.S. Army, retired)
Chaplain (COL) I. V. Tolbert (U.S. Air Force, retired)
Chaplain Leodis Strong (Department of Veteran's Affairs)
Chaplain Wilton E. Blake, I (Department of Veteran's Affairs)
Chaplain (LT. COL.) Howard L. Ashford (U.S Air Force)
Reverend John Q. Owens (Civilian Clergy)
Chaplain (LT) Wilbert Gamble (U.S. Navy)
Chaplain (LCDR) David Brown (U.S. Navy)
Chaplain (CAPT) John Morrison (U.S. Navy)
5. FUNERAL ARRANGEMENTS FOR THE LATE BISHOP CORNELIUS EGBERT THOMAS, THE 99TH BISHOP OF THE AFRICAN METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH:
SERVICE:
Friday, December 10, 2004
12:00 NOON
St. John African Methodist Episcopal Church
708 15th St.
North Birmingham, AL 35203
The Reverend Bobby Cox, Pastor Telephone: 205. 251- 3764; FAX 205.251-3757
Condolences may be sent to Mrs. Susie Thomas and family:
C/o St. John African Methodist Episcopal Church
708 15th St. NorthBirmingham, AL 35203
6. FUNERAL ANNOUNCEMENT FOR THE LATE MRS. DOLLIE DOCTOR BROWN:
Regretfully we share news of the passing of Mrs. Dollie Doctor Brown, wife of Rev. George Welch Brown, Sr. (Retired Presiding Elder, Beaufort District, 7th Episcopal District), mother of Mrs. Phoenicia B. Flowers, mother-in-law of Dr. George F. Flowers, Secretary-Treasurer, Department of Missions (Global Witness & Ministry), and mother of: Rev. George Welch Brown Jr. (Pastor, 7th Episcopal District), Rev. Nathaniel Brown (Pastor, 6th Episcopal District), Ms. Lila B. Nedd (General Board, AMEC and SC Conference Lay President), Mrs. Delores B. Richardson (Co-Editor Newsletter, 2nd Episcopal District Lay Organization and Local Lay President, Ward Memorial AMEC).
Mrs. Brown passed Sunday, December 5, 2004.
Funeral Services:Saturday, December 11, 200411:00 A.M. at:
St. Peter's AMEC, 4650 Sanders Ave.North Charleston, SC 29406
Phone: (843) 744-0688
Rev. George Welch Brown, Jr., Pastor
Condolences may be sent to:
The Rev. George Welch Brown, Sr. or the Reverend Dr. and Mrs. George F. Flowers
4435 Hwy. 162,
Charleston Executive Park
Hollywood, SC 29449,
1587 Savannah Highway, Suite A
Phone: (843) 556-8536, Charleston, SC 29403
Fax: (843) 554-4558; Phone: (843) 852-2645; Fax: (843) 852-2648
Services entrusted to:
Pasley's Mortuary
1115 5th Ave.,
Charleston, SC 29407
Phone: (843) 571-2300Fax: (843) 571-6322
In lieu of flowers, send donations to:
Bethel AMEC Building Fund
4595 Savannah Highway
Ravenel, SC 29470
Phone: (843) 571-3301
Please remember the Brown family in your prayers.
Submitted by: Angela Hawthorne Smith
Ora L. Easley, PresidentCONN-M-SWAWO +PK'SEmail: Amespouses1@aol.com
Phone: (615) 837-9736Fax: (615) 833-3781
WEBSITEShttp://www.amemswwpk.org/http://www.connmswawo3.org
7. FUNERAL ARRANGEMENTS FOR THE LATE MR. FRANKLIN FYKES:
Mr. Franklin Fykes, the Brother of Mrs. Gloria Bruce and Brother-in-law of Presiding Elder Y. Benjamin Bruce (11th Episcopal District).
Thursday, December 9, 2004
11:00 a.m.
Church of God In ChristJacksonville, Florida
Condolences may be sent to:
Dr. and Mrs. Y. Benjamin Bruce
8128 Banyan Blvd.
Orlando, FL 32819
Phone: (407) 352-1431Fax: (407) 363-7423
Email: YaleBruceSr@aol.com
Ora L. Easley, PresidentCONN-M-SWAWO +PK'SEmail: Amespouses1@aol.comPhone: (615) 837-9736Fax: (615) 833-3781
WEBSITES: http://www.amemswwpk.org/http://www.connmswawo3.org
8. THE REVEREND VICK EXPRESSES CONCERN OUR PASTORS WHO HAVE THE "RON ARTEST" SYNDROME:
It's been almost 2 weeks since the basketball brawl that happened at the Palace as the basketball game between the Pistons and the Pacers was winding down. Many of us have watched the video on the news as these players "lost it' and fought one another and even went into the stands to tangle with the fans. All the players were suspended for lengthy periods and expensive fines. The hardest hit was Ron Artest of the Indiana Pacers.
Ron Artest situation interest me because he was a walking bomb always about to explode. Although he is an excellent basketball player, his mental health took a back seat to his career. After it happened news reporters and fans alike were saying how they were not surprised by the actions. But do we wait until the pot boils over to put a lid over it?
As we continue to wrestle and debate the pros and cons of psychological evaluations in ministry, we must do our part to assist the "Ron Artests'" in our pulpits and those preparing to enter. We are our brother and sister keepers. Jesus admonishes and teaches us to turn the other cheek, not turn our heads!!!
9. YOUNG ADULTS, TECHNOLOGY, AND THE CHURCH:
In order for the African Methodist Episcopal Church (AME) to move forward, the Church must make an investment in youth related ministries. Although we have YPD, and RAYC, this is not enough. For most person after their participation in the YPD and RAYC Ministry they tend to fall behind. But if the church wants a future for tomorrow then we must start now preparing them.
Just Recently I attend the 2nd Episcopal District 10th Lay Convention, where I was one of the presenters. Although the attendance was good, I had hopes of seeing more young adults. During my Power Point Presentation I had an opportunity to pique the interest the workshop participants and I hope that I helped them to see that the time for "Real Ministry" is now. It would honestly be a shame for 217 years of exsistence to go "down the drain," because we left little of our legacy because of our failure to document what we have done.
(An excerpt from the presentation given by the Reverend Brandon Davis, supply pastor of Bishops' Memorial AME Church, Columbia, SC at the 2nd Episcopal District 10th Lay Convention)
10. IMPORTANT MESSAGE RECEIVED FROM THE REVEREND DR. LESLIE WHITE:
The national directory of cell phone numbers is about to be published. Once this happens, telemarketers will have access to your cell phone number. This will be even more annoying than the calls to your landline because in addition to being a disruption, these calls will also use your cellular minutes. You can register your cell phone by going on-line to http://www.donotcall.gov/ or by calling 888-382-1222 from the cell phone you wish to register. Those of you with work cell phones should register your phones as quickly as possible.
EDITOR'S NOTE:
When we first moved to Nashville, we received a host of calls from telemarketers. We had to register our new telephone number with the Do Not Call Registry. We no longer receive calls from telemarketers.
11. IF YOU WANT TO ADVERTISE YOUR MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR. EVENT YOU MAY CLICK ON THE LINK BELOW:
Click here to Add A 2005 MLK Event
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