Bishop Gregory G. M. Ingram - Chair, Commission on Publications
The Reverend Dr. Johnny Barbour, Jr., Publisher
The Reverend Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III, Editor
1. TO ALL OF OUR READERS, “A HAPPY AND BLESSED NEW YEAR”:
The Right Reverend Gregory G. M. Ingram - Chair, Commission on Publications, the Reverend Dr. Johnny Barbour, Jr., Publisher, and the Reverend Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III, Editor of the Christian Recorder wishes for all of you a Happy and Blessed New Year!
2. THE EDITOR’S WISH LIST FOR THE NEW YEAR (CON’T):
- That people will stop sending out negative and hateful emails and letters, and learn how to address their issues in accordance with The Discipline and Discipline of the African Methodist Episcopal Church. The AME Discipline can be purchased from the AMEC Sunday School Union for $27.00 plus $3.00 for postage and handling. Simply email u_Sunday@bellsouth.net or call 615. 256-5882.
- That every pastor would visit the sick and shut-in members and regularly take Holy Communion to those who are unable to attend worship.
- That pastors will personally call or visit members who absent themselves from worship more than two consecutive Sundays. If a pastor cannot find time to visit, at least give the member a telephone call.
- That pastors and local church leaders will not abandon senior citizens when the seniors are no longer able to serve on boards or to give big offerings. Again, If a pastor cannot find time to visit, at least give the member a telephone call.
- That preachers (the editor is in that number) utilize creativity in the preaching of familiar texts. File or burn the old sermons and prepare sermons “from scratch.” Preach from some of the more difficult texts and preach less from “the same old familiar texts.”
- Preach shorter sermons. A Sydnorism: “There are no bad short sermons.”
- Church School Teachers prepare for Church School lessons rather than “shooting from the hip.”
- That memorization will return as the standard and that parents and guardians will make their children memorize their speeches instead of reading them.
3. THE SOUTH PHILADELPHIA DISTRICT CONFERENCE:
By Angelena Spears
The 2005 South Philadelphia District Conference held at New Bethel AME Church, Germantown, PA exceeded everyone’s expectations. The district’s Presiding Elder Dr. Charles H. Lett Sr. summed it up best when he said, “When people start shouting at workshops, when people start getting healed at workshops – we know it is the Holy Spirit.”
Indeed, you really did not know if you were at a workshop or a revival – was the sentiment expressed by many who attended the all-day affair on October 7. This was the 2nd annual district conference to be held under the leadership of Dr. Lett, who was named presiding elder in the summer of 2004.
The day began with registration, devotion and reports from the various organizations: the Lay Organization, YPD, Church School, Missionary Society, Christian Education, Economic Development Task Force and Evangelism Committee.
The “Hour of Power” service lived up to its name when the Rev. Dorrian H. Schenck, the pastor of Bethel AME Church, Reading, PA, delivered a stirring sermon titled “Hold On.” Prior to coming to the South Philadelphia District this spring, Rev. Schenck had most recently served as pastor of Trinity AME Church in Middletown, Delaware. Choir members from Bethel, Reading also accompanied Rev. Schenck and sang during the service.
Two exciting workshops followed the delicious lunch that was prepared by the host church.
Before the workshops began, Cherie Ryan, a member of Mothers in Charge – a violence prevention ministry for the faith-based community told a personal story of how her teenage son had been murdered several years ago in Philadelphia when he had offered a car-ride to someone he did not know. Ryan, a member of Mt. Pisgah AME Church in Philadelphia, thanked Elder Lett for the opportunity to share her story with attendees at the conference, with the hope that others would get involved to prevent youth crime. She said that more than 275 youth had been murdered in Philadelphia over the last 15 years.
The Rev. D. Albert Turk, pastor of Zion AME Church, Philadelphia, led the two workshops that were more revival than workshop and the Rev. Kanice Johns, pastor of Mount Zion AME Church, Norristown, PA.
Rev. Turk’s workshop was titled “Enhancing the Worship Experience,” and Rev. Johns’ workshop topic was “The Purpose of the Holy Spirit in the Life of the Believer.” Rev. Turk’s presentation was engaging and thorough, and seemed to cover everything imaginable from A – Z. He talked about the importance and role of worship leaders, and noted that they were not just to lead people in worship – they are to be worshippers themselves.
Rev. Turk said that it can be very healthy for a congregation to experience a variety of musical styles, yet he cautioned that music needs to be examined as to whether or not it fits our doctrine.
“You can not bring everything in your house [church] that you hear somewhere else,” Rev. Turk said.
Rev. Johns spoke more like a revivalist than a workshop leader when she proclaimed, “A lot of our services are dead because we haven’t laid the foundation of the Holy Spirit.”
Both presenters set the conference attendees on fire with their powerful messages. Before they were done, the Holy Spirit had moved throughout the workshops and many pastors, officers and members of the district were sleighed in the Spirit.
Also during the conference, Elder Lett and his wife, Mrs. Sylvia P. Lett, presented certificates to missionary presidents in the district.
A closing worship service began after dinner. The preacher was the Rev. Troy Thomas of Morris Brown AME Church in Philadelphia. Rev. Thomas was transferred to the district this spring after serving as pastor of Mt. Zion AME Church, Dover, DE. His powerful message was based on 2nd Timothy 1:3-6 and Acts 1:8. His sermon title was, “Do You Have It?”
There was not a down time during this Spirit-filled conference. Elder Lett thanked the Rev. Maurice Hughes, the host pastor for the fine job New Bethel Germantown did in hosting the conference.
Elder Lett was congratulated for his leadership of the South Philadelphia District, and Rev. Thomas summarized Elder Lett’s leadership by saying, “When you have someone who strives for excellence, it pushes us all to strive for excellence.”
Sister Angelena Spears, member of Bethel AME Church, Reading, PA, wrote this article
South Philadelphia District Reporter
Contact info: 610-678-0108. Cell: 484-651-5968
4. SEVENTH DISTRICT’S 2005 POST ANNUAL CONFERENCE:
From Thursday November 17th to Saturday November 19th the 7th District of the African Methodist Episcopal Church, which encompasses the entire state of South Carolina, convened in Greenville for its 2005 Post Annual Conference. This event was held at the Allen Temple AME Church and Family Life Center located at 109 Green Avenue in Greenville, SC.
Approximately 7000 AME church clergy and delegates attended this Post Annual Conference, which serves as the culmination of the six regional annual conferences held throughout the summer and fall. At this year’s Post Conference, there were opportunities for both clergy and laity to participate in Christian education training classes and various committees made reports to as well as conducted discussions on how best to serve the 7th District of the AME Church.
Bright and early Thursday morning The Christian Education Department held a workshop where clergy and laity discussed techniques on becoming better Christian educators. The training session offered an overview of AME theology as well as the principles of preaching and teaching. The goal of the class was to enlighten and inspire Episcopal educators so that upon return to their local communities they will be better equipped to lead their congregations more effectively.
Thursday evening Bishop Preston Warren Williams, II, the Presiding Prelate of the 7th District of the AME Church, introduced The Reverend Dr. David F. McAllister-Wilson, President of Wesley Theological Seminary in Washington, D.C. In front of a packed sanctuary of 1500 worshippers, Bishop Williams addressed Rev. McAllister-Wilson as “my friend”.
The Reverend McAllister-Wilson began with an historical overview of the religious relationship between black and white Methodists here in America. He stated that in the 18th century many blacks and whites worshipped and were baptized together. He spoke of a “religious affection” that existed between the two races. However, The Reverend then clarified that as some whites no longer allowed blacks into the church as well as other areas of society, the historical disconnection of black and white Methodists was similar to a loving couple that had gotten a divorce from a loss of affection.
Reverend McAllister-Wilson then professed that God is talking to “us”; God is calling all Methodists to step forward and answer the call of the needs of the world. He called for “clarity of mission”, and reinforced that Methodists should understand their “divine purpose” and live with the conviction of being on a mission from God.
The Reverend stated it is time for a new party in America, a new political theology called “Progressive Evangelicals”. Out of the historical Methodist division must now come new visionary leadership, which offers an answer to spiritual death. The world needs leaders who can rise to the challenges of the day and inspire souls to salvation.
In conclusion, Reverend McAllister-Wilson offered John Wesley’s definition of salvation as “heaven open in the soul.” According to The Reverend, Wesley believed that “heaven is a place on earth,” in that salvation is not experienced from a distance, not after you die, but in the present tense, here and now. Reverend McAllister-Wilson further clarified that the foundational principal of Methodism is “one who does God’s work here on earth.” He called for all African Methodist Episcopal and United Methodist Episcopal members to unite, prophesying that in that union there would be more empty bedrooms in the homes of AME and UME members than homeless and more food in their pantries than hungry mouths to feed.
Throughout Friday and Saturday, various ministries presented their annual reports to a full house of 2500 congregants who packed the Family Life Center. The following are excerpts from those reports, which were humbly submitted, to Bishop Preston Warren Williams, II, the presiding prelate of the Seventh District of the AME Church:
Christian Education:
“Christian Education is that ministry which under girds all the other ministries of the church.
The Christian Education Task Force was developed to assist in the creation of the Christian education curriculum for the state of South Carolina. The Task Force met several times to compile, edit and revise a list of courses suitable for ministry in the Seventh Episcopal District. The Board of Christian Education was appointed by Bishop Williams in March 2005. The members of the Board represent both the laity and the clergy.
The appointments of the Reverend Joseph Jones as the Adult Coordinator and Sister Penelope Samuels as the Youth/Children Coordinator also support the ministry.
Bishop Williams has demonstrated his support in both word and action. In May, the ministry was blessed with fifty-six individuals with Master Degrees and higher levels of educational credentials who volunteered to serve the district as instructors.
The following activities have been completed by the ministry: creation of a seven year plan; creation of a standardized curriculum for the Debutantes and Masters Commission; training of 85 DMC representatives in the new curriculum; training of 23 instructors for certification training; certification of Certification Training Session - 390 individuals in the Introduction of Old Testament, 400 individuals in the African Methodist Polity, 225 individuals in the Introduction of the New Testament, and 275 individuals in the African Methodist Articles of Religion; establishment of guidelines by the Board of Christian Education - curriculum standardization, compensation plan, and registration process; and the establishment of a curriculum team.
The Christian Education Ministry is excited about God’s movement in the Seventh Episcopal District and is looking forward to a blessed, exciting and productive 2005-2006 Conference Year. We, the members of the Christian Education Ministry, would like to thank Bishop and Mother Williams for the opportunity to serve in the Seventh Episcopal District.”
- Dr. Allen Parrott, Director of Christian Education Ministry
Women’s Missionary Society:
“As we close the pages of our past year’s work, we look forward to another year of service and fellowship. Whatever you have commanded us to do, and wherever you send us we will go - Joshua 1:16.
Some of the accomplishments and projects completed in 2005 by the Seventh District’s Women’s Missionary Society are as follows: 32 churches celebrated Dental Health Sunday; $6,999.36 was raised for The March of Dimes; more than 1500 sisters wore red to celebrate Heart Sunday; 337 sisters participated in The March of Dimes walk-a-thons throughout the state; 10 sisters participated in Stand for Children Day at the SC State Museum in Columbia, SC (Several AME Church Child Care Centers participated); 268 sisters attended Training Sessions during The Christian Education Leadership Conference at The Embassy Suites in Charleston, SC; 115 sisters attended the More Smiling Faces in Beautiful Places Dental Health Summit; sisters clocked 511,256 Big MAK hours; sisters recruited 135 students for Allen University; there were 625 new sisters recruited into our society; sisters presented 12 scholarships of $1000 each to students at Allen University; sisters donated $100,000 to Allen University for scholarships and up-keep; there were 6 sisters honored for outstanding accomplishments in community service during March for Women’s History Month; sisters donated $30,000 to the Reid House of Christian Service; 17 Torch lighters were installed; and $4,350 was collected for the Lupus Foundation.”
- Mrs. Bernice Gore Sanders, WMS Episcopal President.
Allen University:
“This plan outlines the direction for Allen University for the next five years. This plan represents the desired outcome for the university, which will enable her to remain a viable educational institution contributing to the educational needs of our state and nation.
Allen University’s strategic goals for Academic Development are to maintain and improve academic integrity and course relevance via continuous curricula review and revision on an annual basis; implement writing, speaking, critical thinking, and technology learning experiences across the curricula; expand student exposure to cultural diversity via exchange programs, study abroad, and lectures series; and implement collaborative programs with other accredited institutions to enhance faculty members’ performance in teaching, research, and service.
Allen University’s strategic goals for Student Development are to recruit and retain a student enrollment of 1500; develop and implement a cultural arts series to ensure that students are exposed to national and international cultures and literature; use faculty and administrators as role models for students; broaden and strengthen the intercollegiate and intramural programs to reflect the mission, values, and goals of the University; and assist students with career placement and entrance into graduate programs.
Allen University’s strategic goals for Personnel Leadership Development are to recruit and retain experienced and effective administrators who can motivate and coach employees to reach established goals; recruit and retain cutting‑edge faculty who have proven records with student development, curriculum development and research; provide faculty with learning opportunities that result in the effective instruction and assessment of national standards for each academic major, the use of instructional techniques that reflect an application and analysis level of knowledge of student learning styles, and the presentation and or publication of scholarly articles and papers.
Allen University’s strategic goals for Technology Development are to install an integrated software system to manage every aspect of university life - data/voice, administration, and instructions; strengthen and expand the technological infrastructure of the University; and implement an effective library information system.
Allen University’s strategic goals for Facility Enhancement are to purchase property for dormitory, parking and future growth of the university; renovate Chappelle Administration Building to be used as classroom and office space; renovate and upgrade Gibbs Science and Math Building; construct a new Leadership Development Center which will house a Learning Resource Center, Reading and Writing Center, and a Research and Technology Center; construct a 700 bed student housing complex and cafeteria with a seating capacity of 300; construct a Student Life Center which will enable students to recreate and socialize in a safe and clean environment; redesign and landscape the entire historic district of the campus to make it a pedestrian campus; and conduct regular maintenance on all buildings and equipment to keep them functioning at optimal levels.
Allen University’s strategic goals for Finance/Resource Development are to increase the university endowment fund to $5 million; generate sufficient funds to adequately operate the university; access grant opportunities for student service programs, science and math programs, building improvement, faculty recruitment and development and research; launch a major Capital Campaign; conduct two major University wide fund raisers per year; plan and implement a program of major gifts and corporate foundation relations within the University Resource Development Division; strengthen alumni participation and giving; and secure funds to provide competitive faculty salaries.”
- Dr. Charles E. Young, President of Allen University.
Sons of Allen:
“An old hymn says, ‘May the Work I’ve Done Speak for Me.’ The work of the Sons of Allen has spoken for itself during the reports at each of the Annual Conference Men’s Nights and is a part of the record which was presented at each Annual Conference Men’s Night. Each Men’s Night was well attended and spiritually fulfilling, and recounted the fruitful work done to recover black manhood and inspire our youth. We thank and praise God for the blessing of renewed male leadership in the church that stands upon the foundation of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
Since the conclusion of the six Annual Conferences, the Sons of Allen of each Conference have met and organized, and are tailoring programs designed for the unique needs of each Conference. At the Episcopal District Sons of Allen Planning Meeting session on Thursday of this week, we discussed and distributed information for the 2005 election of Episcopal District Officers at the Mid-Year Conference. As a result, a motion was made, seconded and unanimously carried, to commend Brother George Brown, the Episcopal President and Connectional First Vice-President, for his energy, dedication and leadership as we prepare for the Mid-Year Conference elections.
The following recommendations were formulated and are presented for the advice and consent of the Planning meeting: 1. Each Presiding Elder District Chapter will focus on planting and nurturing Sons of Allen Units in the smaller churches of each District; 2. We will see that our outreach and evangelism efforts at every level embrace adult men as well as our youth; 3. We will support and attend all Episcopal District Christian Education initiatives; 4. We will partner with the South Carolina Departments of Juvenile Justice and Corrections to do new things in prison ministry and ministry to troubled youth; 5. We will continue to support and assist the Debutante and Masters Commission of each Annual Conference in supervising and working with Masters Candidates, and we look forward to being brought in early in the process to maximize our successful work.
We also commend our Presiding Bishop, The Right Reverend Preston Warren Williams, II, for his presence and support, and we pledge our support to him as he prepares to claim the Presidency of the Council of Bishops, and believe that under his leadership, the best is yet to come.”
- Submitted on behalf of Mr. George Brown, Episcopal District President, by Reverend Joseph A. Darby, Episcopal District Coordinator.
Health Ministry:
“Thank you to Bishop Preston W. Williams, II, and Mother Williams for their continued support of the Health Ministry of the 7th Episcopal District. The District and Local health commissions have continued to provide health education, screening, referral, and increased physical activity through walking clubs and more. From 2000 to 2005 we currently have 400 churches with a health ministry. The Health-e-AME model received national recognition from the National Governor’s Association. Two new additional key Episcopal appointments were made in Sheila Powell as Episcopal Diabetes Coordinator and Phyllis Allen as Episcopal Nutrition Coordinator. The Physical-e-Fit Program has provided training for all annual conferences, approximately 300 churches have been trained to have a physical activity program through chair exercise, praise aerobics, walking clubs, and our 8 steps to fitness program, which is a scripture, based program for healthy lifestyle changes. Congratulations to Mt. Carmel AME Church, Moncks Corner, SC who won the 2005 Team Up To Trim Down Weight Loss Contest by losing over 1200 pounds in an 8 week period.
The Health-e-AME website continues to be a valuable source of health information - http://health-e-ame.com/ . The statewide Blood Pressure Monitoring Program - Palmetto Project - Heart & Soul for hypertension control is a statewide partnership of the 7th Episcopal Health Commission ministry, where members have their blood pressure monitored regularly through the local health commission. The Diabetes Wellness Program under the leadership of Sheila Powell is being restructured to meet the needs of our members and communities. Diabetes continues to be a leading contributor of heart disease, blindness, and disability.”
- Ms. Rosetta Swinton, RN, Episcopal Director of Health.
Debutantes and Masters Commission:
“I am happy to report that the DMC is alive and well in the state of South Carolina. Throughout the state’s various conferences, we served 742 young people. The inclusion of a young woman who is visually impaired was compelling for us all.
The new curriculum, which enhanced the established DMC, was presented this year and includes AME church history, the four gospels, the parts of the sanctuary, the books of the bible, major and minor biblical characteristics, the ABC’s of Christianity and much more. Christian educators certified in the new curriculum who made the lessons fun and interactive presented the information to our young people.
In addition, at Saturday’s rehearsals each Debutante and Master was quizzed by me on a variety of material from the new curriculum. I am pleased to let you know that our young people know the church and our people. They are familiar with the divisions of the Bible; they know something about Abraham, Isaac and Jacob; they know that an epistle is a letter; they know the books of the bible; they are familiar with the names Richard Allen, Morris Brown, Daniel Payne, Paul Quinn, and Henry McNeil Turner; and they are studying and learning Bible verses that will be their guides throughout their lives.
Community service remains a hallmark of the DMC experience. Our young people rendered service at after school programs, nursing homes and children’s hospitals. In each conference, there were young people who exceeded the expectations of 100-500 hours of service. Scrapbooks and commendations documented the community service by the agencies that benefited.
Our scholarship program was announced at the Palmetto Conference. The criteria are being set and the awards will be announced at the Mid-Year Meeting.
The Sons of Allen were active in all conferences. They assisted commissioners with Christian education and served as greeters/hosts at several of the conferences.
It is our goal to ensure that each young person who participates in the DMC program understands that first they are children of the King and that they are "second to none." It is our responsibility as adults to ensure that they know that they have a Heavenly Father who loves them and will be there for them no matter what the circumstance.
Secondly, our young people must know that they are the children of the African Methodist Episcopal Church, always leaders in the fight against inequality, racism and segregation. They must understand that the founders of the AME church were men and women of bravery whose courage continues to inspire, and whose commitment must be emulated if we are going to survive in an increasingly competitive and difficult world.”
- Felita Grady Davis, Episcopal DMC Commissioner.
Young Peoples Department:
“During the weekend of April 8-10, 2005, YPD retreat participants were determined to take salvation seriously as over 900 young people and chaperones proclaimed, ‘Jesus or Die.’ Young people ages 13-26 experienced three days of worship, Bible Study, education, talent, business, and recreation. A tremendous harvest was wrought as over 300 young people committed their lives to Jesus Christ.”
- Mrs. Cheryl Swinton, Episcopal YPD Director.
Dept. of Global Witness & Ministry:
”The Seventh Episcopal District (SED) is one of the tallest and strongest districts in the African Methodist Episcopal Church, and we should be very proud of our heritage and history in South Carolina. Therefore, I wish to share the following important information as it relates to Hurricane Katrina and the SED contributions: the SED housed a total of 4,365 displaced families in hotels, rental property, private homes and churches; 127 churches traveled or assisted other churches in sending non-perishable food items such as medical supplies, household goods, clothing, juice and water to the Gulf Region with 18 wheelers, box trucks, cargo vans and church vans with trailers; approximately 456 truckloads of food, water, furniture, household goods, medical supplies and other items were dispatched to AME sites throughout the region; these distributions equate to more than 20.4 million pounds of food and grocery products and nearly 3 million meals; Bishop Williams and the Seventh District sent one million bottles of water five days after the storm along with food care packages for 10, 0000 persons; we are partnering with Habitat for Humanity in Waveland, Mississippi (a city that was totally destroyed by the storm) in building 5 new houses (we need volunteers to help build).
Let me thank Bishop Williams, Presiding Elders, Pastors and components of the Lay Organization, WMS, YPD and Son of Allen for your generous gift of $174,000 toward the Hurricane Katrina Relief Fund.
Lastly, our prayers and hats are off to Bishops C. Garnet Henning and T. Larry Kirkland for being Generals in leading all of the relief efforts and facing the challenges and problems that came with the aftermath of the storms.”
- Dr. George F. Flowers, Executive Director, Global Witness & Ministry
Submitted by:
Benjamin HarrisonPublic Relations Director7th District AME ChurchTel 803.935.0500
Fax 803.935.0830HarrisonAMEMedia@aol.com
5. FAITH AND COMMUNITY GROUPS JOINED BY SENATOR KENNEDY TO HONOR MLK'S BIRTHDAY WITH NATIONAL FOCUS ON 'LIVING WAGE DAYS' EVENTS:
Washington, D.C., December 28, 2005--Faith and community groups will be joined by Senator Edward Kennedy (D-Mass.) to honor the legacy of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. during "Let Justice Roll Living Wage Days" worship services, rallies and other events being planned for the weekend of his birthday, January 14-16, 2006. Sponsored by the Let Justice Roll Living Wage Campaign, "Living Wage Days" events are being organized to inspire, educate and mobilize congregations and community organizations to support and act for raising the minimum wage at the federal and state levels.
"Dr. King was fully committed to low wage working people and their families. There is no better way to celebrate his birthday than to advocate for a raise in the minimum wage so that, in the words of the prophet Amos, justice will roll down like waters and righteousness like an ever-flowing stream," said Rev. Dr. Paul Sherry, coordinator of the Let Justice Roll Living Wage Campaign.
Senator Kennedy, who will participate in a "Living Wage Days" event at 2:30 p.m. on Monday, January 16 at the historic United First Parish Church Unitarian in Quincy, Mass., has brought to a vote a measure to increase the current federal minimum wage twice this year. Although the Fair Minimum Wage Act was defeated, Senator Kennedy plans to continue pushing his colleagues in Congress to give American workers a raise.
Speaking at a press conference on this issue on Dec. 14, Senator Kennedy urged Congress to raise the minimum wage in the true spirit of Christmas. "In this the wealthiest nation on earth, no one who works for a living should have to live in poverty. How can any of us in good conscience enjoy our own high standard of living, when it is built on the backs of underpaid workers? Fair wages are not just good policy - they are a moral obligation," he said standing in the shadow of the Capitol Christmas tree.
In addition to the event in Quincy, Mass. on Jan. 16, numerous similar events are being planned around the country that focus on the plight of low-wage workers and the need to raise the minimum wage, something that was a real concern for Dr. King.
"There is nothing but a lack of social vision to prevent us from paying an adequate wage to every American [worker] whether he is a hospital worker, laundry worker, maid, or day laborer," King said more than 35 years ago in his book, "Where Do We Go From Here: Chaos or Community."
Recent data compiled by members of the Let Justice Roll Living Wage Campaign shows this lack of social vision continues and is even more tragic. Today the real value of the minimum wage is more than $3.50 below what it was in 1968. Since the last increase in the minimum wage in 1997, the value has eroded by more than 15 percent. To have the purchasing power it had in 1968, the year that King was assassinated, the minimum wage would have to be $9.09 an hour today, not $5.15.
According to Rev. Dr. Bob Edgar, General Secretary of the National Council of Churches USA, one of the sponsors of the Let Justice Roll Living Wage Campaign, "A job should keep you out of poverty, not keep you in it. Full-time minimum wage workers earn $10,700 a year, which is about $5,000 below the poverty line for a family of three. This is a moral outrage," said Edgar, who will also participate in the Quincy, Mass. event on Jan. 16.
"In 1967, Dr. King called for 'the total, direct and immediate abolition of poverty.' This cannot be done without increasing the minimum wage. Unfortunately, the urgency of now was yesterday and we must make raising the minimum wage a priority," he said.
The Let Justice Roll Living Wage Campaign, which is comprised of more than 50 faith and community based organizations, is working on the national level as well as in a number of states including Ohio, Michigan, Arizona, West Virginia and Arkansas to support and advocate for minimum wage increases.
Additional information about the Let Justice Roll Living Wage Campaign can be found online at www.letjusticeroll.org, including the availability of multiple resources for “Living Wage Days” events.
6. THE PASTOR’S CORNER - CRADLE TO CROSS V, ONE FAMILY UNDER GOD:
47 Someone told Him, “Your mother and brothers are standing outside, wanting to speak to you.” 48 He replied to him, “Who is my mother, and who are my brothers?” 49 Pointing to His disciples, He said, “Here are my mother and my brothers. 50 For whoever does the will of my Father in heaven is my brother and sister and mother.” (Matthew 12: 47-50)
Webster’s Seventh New Collegiate Dictionary defines family as “A people or group of peoples regarded as deriving from a common stock.” In the passage above, Jesus states the point of commonality for those He recognizes as His family. Jesus states that His family is made of those who do “…the will of my Father in heaven…” The baby Jesus, conceived by the Holy Spirit, was born into a family with Joseph, Mary, and His brothers and sisters. Jesus places the family, its members, and their relationships to God and to each other under His authority.
In our relationships with God:
1. Deuteronomy 11: 18-21 – Christian families are called to a state of demonstrated commitment to God. God calls families to operate under the banner of God’s commands. And like the Hebrews who were entering the “Promised Land”, we are to pass on to future generations this same commitment to God.
2. Psalm 127: 1-2 – Christian families are to be dependent on God. We are to make every effort to accomplish what God has placed before us. We are to strive toward excellence in education, life preparation, and in our chosen fields of employment. And as we work, we are to be ever mindful that God makes our efforts fruitful. Presiding Elder Clarence Robinson of the African Methodist Episcopal Church of Chicago frequently reminds me and other pastors under his care, “You make the effort, and God will make the way.” As we believe, achieve and receive, we live lives in dependence on the Lord.
In our relationships with each other:
Ephesians 5: 21-29 – Husbands and wives are to submit to one another. This mutual submission is reflective of Christ’s presence in the home and implies “follower-ship” and “leadership” in the marriage relationship. Wives should be able to look to their husbands and depend on them to be head of household (v. 22-24). Unfortunately, too many of the initiatives taken in the home come about by the efforts of the women in our homes and not the men who are to be leaders. God places the burden and accountability for being leaders according to His design and commands on men (v. 25-29). A man must demonstrate servant leadership that connects with the three dimensions of his wife’s soul, the will, intellect, and emotions.
He is to connect with her will (v. 25) through unconditional sacrifice of his will to her needs. He is to connect to her intellect through (v. 26-27) stimulating exchanges of ideas, thoughts, and experiences so she shares in his life. He is to connect with her emotions (v. 28-29) through the nurture and support of the emotional well-being and development of his wife.
1. Ephesians 6: 1-4 – Parents and children respect one another. We are to teach our children to obey their parents and honor the authority God has given parents in children’s lives (v. 1-3). As children learn to obey and honor authority in the home, they learn to obey and honor authority in society. This is a critical step toward good, long living.
2. Parents are to value and respect (v. 4) their children and treat them like the wonderful works of God they truly are (Psalm 139: 13-16). We are to “bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord” so the wisdom of God guides their lives as adults.
3. God, Almighty came into the world as a baby. The baby Jesus, conceived by the Holy Spirit, was born into a family with Joseph, Mary, and His brothers and sisters. It was at the cross that Jesus redefined family as those who do “the will of my Father in heaven.” Jesus makes us all “One Family under God.”
Pastor James M. Moody, Sr.
Quinn Chapel AME Church
2401 South Wabash Avenue
Chicago, Illinois 60616
7. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
From: 1wim@htcomp.net
Rev. Johnnie Mae McClain went to be with the LORD on Dec. 26, 2005. Her Funeral Service will be held on Saturday, Dec. 31, 2005 at 11:00 A.M. at Tolliver Chapel Missionary Baptist Church in Waco, Texas.
Toliver Chapel Missionary Baptist Church1402 Elm StreetWaco, Texas 76076Ph: (254) 799-6150
Rev. McClain was a member of St. Luke AME Church in Waco, Texas where the Rev. Pamela Rivera is pastor.Rev. McClain served faithfully in Prison Ministry and led many souls to Christ.
8. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
From: whowardsmith7@yahoo.com
Sister Ida Frances Phelps Tisdale, age 95, of Nashville, Tennessee, the grandmother of the Rev. Yvette Tisdale, pastor of Mt Olive AME Church, Lebanon, TN died on Sunday, Dec. 25, 2005.
Services are scheduled for Thursday, December 29, 2005, at Greater Bethel AME Church, 1300 South St. Nashville, TN. The Family will receive friends from 6 p.m. - 7 p.m. with the funeral following. The Rev. Michael Broadnax, pastor.
Grace Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.
Grace Funeral Home
1012 Buchanan Street
Nashville, TN 37208
9. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
The Reverend A. Earl Jordan, Sr. passed on Wednesday, December 28, 2005, in Huntington, NY after a brief illness. He pastored several churches, including Trinity, Long Branch, NJ; Ebenezer, Rahway, NJ; Bethel, Huntington, NY; Greater Bethel, New York City, and served as Presiding Elder of the Buffalo-Westchester District, New York Conference. His last charge was Calvary, Glen Cove, NY. Reverend Jordan retired at the New York Annual Conference in 2005.
SERVICE ARRANGEMENTS:
Wake/Viewing: - Friday, December 30, 2005
5:00 P.M. - 9:00 P.M.
Bethel A.M.E. Church
291 Park Avenue
Huntington, NY
Phone: 631-549-5014
FUNERAL:
Saturday, December 31, 2005
10:00 A.M.
Bethel A.M.E. Church
291 Park Avenue
Huntington, NY
Phone: 631-549-5014
CONDOLENCES MAY BE SENT TO:
The Jordan Family
26 Lebkamp Avenue
Huntington, NY 11743
Please remember the Jordan family in your prayers.
10. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT ANNOUNCEMENTS PROVIDED BY:
Bishop Carolyn Tyler Guidry, Chair
Commission on Social Action Clergy Family Information Center
Mrs. Ora L. Easley - Administrator Email: Amespouses1@aol.com
(Nashville, Tennessee Contact) Phone: (615) 837-9736 Fax: (615) 833-3781
(Memphis, Tennessee Contact) (901) 578-4554 (Phone & Fax)
Please remember these families in your prayers.
11. CONDOLENCES TO THE BEREAVED FROM THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER:
The Chair of the Commission on Publications, the Right Reverend Gregory G. M. Ingram; the Publisher, the Reverend Dr. Johnny Barbour and the Editor of the Christian Recorder, the Reverend Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III offer our condolences and prayers to those who have lost loved ones. We pray that the peace of Christ will be with you during this time of your bereavement.
Archive of The Christian Recorder Online from 2004-2016; Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III, 20th Editor of The Christian Recorder
12/23/2005
THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER ONLINE ENGLISH EDITION (12/19/05)
Bishop Gregory G. M. Ingram - Chair, Commission on Publications
The Reverend Dr. Johnny Barbour, Jr., Publisher
The Reverend Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III, Editor
The Christian Recorder Online will resume publication after Christmas.
We wish all of you a very Blessed Christmas.
1. SAINT JAMES AFRICAN METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH, CYNTHIANA, KENTUCKY:
Greetings, salutations, and warmest regards in the name of our precious Savior Jesus Christ the Risen Lord who through grace and mercy protects, provides, and paves the way for our future in eternity with Him.
Saint James African Methodist Episcopal Church along with Ebenezer United Methodist Church and Macedonia Baptist Church would like to extend to you this invitation.
You are asked to come and be a part of their annual recognition and celebration of the life of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. This will be a community wide event in which all of Harrison County and other communities and counties may participate.
This momentous occasion of honor will be held on Monday, January 16, 2006. The day’s schedule will be as follows:
10:00 A.M. - morning devotions at Ebenezer UMC located at 205 North Locust Street
10:30 A.M. -Community Wide March of Unity, Friendship and Alliance originating from Ebenezer UMC
11:00 A.M. - Celebration, Appreciation and Observance Program in Remembrance of Dr. Martin Luther King at St. James AMEC, 312 West Pleasant St.
Featured Speaker for the MLK Program will be Dr. Mary Levi Smith, First Female President of Kentucky State University, Frankfort, Kentucky, author of, In Spite of the Odds: Using Roadblocks, Potholes, and Hurdles as Stepping Stones to Success
12:00 P.M. Noon -Fellowship Lunch
Please join us for this special commemoration of the life and times of Dr. Martin L. King Jr. He stepped out on faith on our behalf so that we could experience life’s freedoms and rights as citizens here on earth. Let us step out on Monday, January 16, 2006 to honor his courageous efforts.
In Christian Fellowship,
The members of Saint James A.M.E., Ebenezer UMC and Macedonia Baptist Churches.
“I was glad when they said unto me, Let us go into the house of the LORD” (Psalms 122:1)
2. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE UPDATE:
Bishop and Mrs. Richardson and the entire family of the late Sarah Speights, mother of Supervisor Connie Speights Richardson, express their sincere gratitude for the prayers and expressions of compassion received to date.
Please continue to pray for the family.
Peace and blessings,
Rev. Cassandra A. Sparrow
Executive Director
Second District Religious, Educational and Charitable Development Projects, Inc.
(RED, Inc.)
Service arrangements for Mrs. Sarah Speights
Service arrangements for Mrs. Sarah Speights, mother of Second Episcopal District Episcopal Supervisor Connie Speights Richardson and the mother-in-law of Bishop Adam Jefferson Richardson, Presiding Bishop, Second Episcopal District.
Funeral Service:
Tuesday, December 27, 2005
11:00 A. M. (Central Time)
Vann Funeral Home
4265 Saint Andrews Street
Marianna, FL 32448
(850) 482-3300 (Phone)
Floral arrangements/tributes should be sent to Vann Funeral Home.
Vann Funeral Home
4265 Saint Andrews Street
Marianna, FL 32448
(850) 482-3300 (Phone)
Sympathy cards and messages of condolence may be sent to the Tallahassee, Florida address of Bishop and Mrs. Adam Jefferson Richardson.
ADDRESS:
3715 Forsythe Way
Tallahassee, FL 32309
FAX messages of condolence may be sent via:
(850) 893-1959
3. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
From: longcreek2@aol.com
Funeral services for the late Willie Eugene Ball (father of Rev. Gregory Ball, Pastor of Brown's AME Church Smithfield, VA):
Arrangements:
Tuesday, December 27, 2005
Wake (10:30 AM)
Homegoing Service (11:00 AM)
1st Mt. Olive Freewill Baptist Church
809-811 West Saratoga Street
Baltimore, MD 21201
Bishop Oscar E. Brown, Pastor
Phone: 410-728-4383
Fax: 410-383-0676
Funeral arrangements are entrusted to:
Gary P. March Funeral Home
270 Fredhilton Pass
Baltimore, MD 21229
Phone: 410-945-1100
Condolences may be sent to:
Rev. Gregory Ball and family
6 Madrone Place
Hampton, VA 23666
(757) 838-0685
4. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
SGT Melba Anita Miller, daughter and only child of the Reverend Dr. Marva Bywaters, pastor of the of Petra AME Church in Houston, Texas, departed earth for Glory on December 19, 2005.
The Homegoing Celebration will be held on Wednesday, December 28, 2005, at noon.
Condolences may be sent to:
Rev. Dr. Marva Bywaters
4919 La Branch Street
Houston, Texas 77004
713.522.4775
5. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
From: PastorGolphin@aol.com
Service arrangements for Mrs. Mellodey Hoskins, daughter of Reverend MacArthur Pendleton and Dr. Kathy Pendleton (Bethel AME Church - Campbellsville, KY).
Wake:
Monday, December 26, 2005 from 1:00 PM-7:00 PM
(The family will be present from 6:00 PM –7:00 PM) atLeek and Sons Funeral Home304 E WilliamsDanville IL 68132217-442-2667
The Homegoing Celebration of Mellodey Hoskins December 27, 2005
12:00 Noon
New Life Church of Faith
1419 N. Bowman Ave
Danville, IL 61832
Condolences may be sent to the addresses above or to:
The Reverend MacArthur Pendleton and Dr. Kathy Pendleton
Bethel AME Church
240 Lone Valley Rd
Campbellsville, KY 42718
6. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT ANNOUNCEMENTS PROVIDED BY:
Bishop Carolyn Tyler Guidry, Chair
Commission on Social Action Clergy Family Information Center
Mrs. Ora L. Easley - Administrator Email: Amespouses1@aol.com
(Nashville, Tennessee Contact) Phone: (615) 837-9736 Fax: (615) 833-3781
(Memphis, Tennessee Contact) (901) 578-4554 (Phone & Fax)
Please remember these families in your prayers.
7. CONDOLENCES TO THE BEREAVED FROM THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER:
The Chair of the Commission on Publications, the Right Reverend Gregory G. M. Ingram; the Publisher, the Reverend Dr. Johnny Barbour and the Editor of the Christian Recorder, the Reverend Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III offer our condolences and prayers to those who have lost loved ones. We pray that the peace of Christ will be with you during this time of your bereavement.
The Reverend Dr. Johnny Barbour, Jr., Publisher
The Reverend Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III, Editor
The Christian Recorder Online will resume publication after Christmas.
We wish all of you a very Blessed Christmas.
1. SAINT JAMES AFRICAN METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH, CYNTHIANA, KENTUCKY:
Greetings, salutations, and warmest regards in the name of our precious Savior Jesus Christ the Risen Lord who through grace and mercy protects, provides, and paves the way for our future in eternity with Him.
Saint James African Methodist Episcopal Church along with Ebenezer United Methodist Church and Macedonia Baptist Church would like to extend to you this invitation.
You are asked to come and be a part of their annual recognition and celebration of the life of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. This will be a community wide event in which all of Harrison County and other communities and counties may participate.
This momentous occasion of honor will be held on Monday, January 16, 2006. The day’s schedule will be as follows:
10:00 A.M. - morning devotions at Ebenezer UMC located at 205 North Locust Street
10:30 A.M. -Community Wide March of Unity, Friendship and Alliance originating from Ebenezer UMC
11:00 A.M. - Celebration, Appreciation and Observance Program in Remembrance of Dr. Martin Luther King at St. James AMEC, 312 West Pleasant St.
Featured Speaker for the MLK Program will be Dr. Mary Levi Smith, First Female President of Kentucky State University, Frankfort, Kentucky, author of, In Spite of the Odds: Using Roadblocks, Potholes, and Hurdles as Stepping Stones to Success
12:00 P.M. Noon -Fellowship Lunch
Please join us for this special commemoration of the life and times of Dr. Martin L. King Jr. He stepped out on faith on our behalf so that we could experience life’s freedoms and rights as citizens here on earth. Let us step out on Monday, January 16, 2006 to honor his courageous efforts.
In Christian Fellowship,
The members of Saint James A.M.E., Ebenezer UMC and Macedonia Baptist Churches.
“I was glad when they said unto me, Let us go into the house of the LORD” (Psalms 122:1)
2. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE UPDATE:
Bishop and Mrs. Richardson and the entire family of the late Sarah Speights, mother of Supervisor Connie Speights Richardson, express their sincere gratitude for the prayers and expressions of compassion received to date.
Please continue to pray for the family.
Peace and blessings,
Rev. Cassandra A. Sparrow
Executive Director
Second District Religious, Educational and Charitable Development Projects, Inc.
(RED, Inc.)
Service arrangements for Mrs. Sarah Speights
Service arrangements for Mrs. Sarah Speights, mother of Second Episcopal District Episcopal Supervisor Connie Speights Richardson and the mother-in-law of Bishop Adam Jefferson Richardson, Presiding Bishop, Second Episcopal District.
Funeral Service:
Tuesday, December 27, 2005
11:00 A. M. (Central Time)
Vann Funeral Home
4265 Saint Andrews Street
Marianna, FL 32448
(850) 482-3300 (Phone)
Floral arrangements/tributes should be sent to Vann Funeral Home.
Vann Funeral Home
4265 Saint Andrews Street
Marianna, FL 32448
(850) 482-3300 (Phone)
Sympathy cards and messages of condolence may be sent to the Tallahassee, Florida address of Bishop and Mrs. Adam Jefferson Richardson.
ADDRESS:
3715 Forsythe Way
Tallahassee, FL 32309
FAX messages of condolence may be sent via:
(850) 893-1959
3. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
From: longcreek2@aol.com
Funeral services for the late Willie Eugene Ball (father of Rev. Gregory Ball, Pastor of Brown's AME Church Smithfield, VA):
Arrangements:
Tuesday, December 27, 2005
Wake (10:30 AM)
Homegoing Service (11:00 AM)
1st Mt. Olive Freewill Baptist Church
809-811 West Saratoga Street
Baltimore, MD 21201
Bishop Oscar E. Brown, Pastor
Phone: 410-728-4383
Fax: 410-383-0676
Funeral arrangements are entrusted to:
Gary P. March Funeral Home
270 Fredhilton Pass
Baltimore, MD 21229
Phone: 410-945-1100
Condolences may be sent to:
Rev. Gregory Ball and family
6 Madrone Place
Hampton, VA 23666
(757) 838-0685
4. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
SGT Melba Anita Miller, daughter and only child of the Reverend Dr. Marva Bywaters, pastor of the of Petra AME Church in Houston, Texas, departed earth for Glory on December 19, 2005.
The Homegoing Celebration will be held on Wednesday, December 28, 2005, at noon.
Condolences may be sent to:
Rev. Dr. Marva Bywaters
4919 La Branch Street
Houston, Texas 77004
713.522.4775
5. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
From: PastorGolphin@aol.com
Service arrangements for Mrs. Mellodey Hoskins, daughter of Reverend MacArthur Pendleton and Dr. Kathy Pendleton (Bethel AME Church - Campbellsville, KY).
Wake:
Monday, December 26, 2005 from 1:00 PM-7:00 PM
(The family will be present from 6:00 PM –7:00 PM) atLeek and Sons Funeral Home304 E WilliamsDanville IL 68132217-442-2667
The Homegoing Celebration of Mellodey Hoskins December 27, 2005
12:00 Noon
New Life Church of Faith
1419 N. Bowman Ave
Danville, IL 61832
Condolences may be sent to the addresses above or to:
The Reverend MacArthur Pendleton and Dr. Kathy Pendleton
Bethel AME Church
240 Lone Valley Rd
Campbellsville, KY 42718
6. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT ANNOUNCEMENTS PROVIDED BY:
Bishop Carolyn Tyler Guidry, Chair
Commission on Social Action Clergy Family Information Center
Mrs. Ora L. Easley - Administrator Email: Amespouses1@aol.com
(Nashville, Tennessee Contact) Phone: (615) 837-9736 Fax: (615) 833-3781
(Memphis, Tennessee Contact) (901) 578-4554 (Phone & Fax)
Please remember these families in your prayers.
7. CONDOLENCES TO THE BEREAVED FROM THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER:
The Chair of the Commission on Publications, the Right Reverend Gregory G. M. Ingram; the Publisher, the Reverend Dr. Johnny Barbour and the Editor of the Christian Recorder, the Reverend Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III offer our condolences and prayers to those who have lost loved ones. We pray that the peace of Christ will be with you during this time of your bereavement.
12/21/2005
THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER ONLINE ENGLISH EDITION (12/21/05)
Bishop Gregory G. M. Ingram - Chair, Commission on Publications
The Reverend Dr. Johnny Barbour, Jr., Publisher
The Reverend Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III, Editor
1. HURRICANE KATRINA IS NOT OVER; THE KATRINA EPISODE WAS A CONDITION, WAS NOT A PROBLEM:
It seems that we have gotten quiet about Hurricane Katrina. I do not hear much about Katrina and the strategy as a follow-up to all of the great work that we did immediately following the catastrophe. The Katrina issue is far from over. We still have work to do. We still have lives to put back together and to be given hope. . We have families that need to be reunited and homes that need to be refurbished or rebuilt. We have churches that need to be repaired or rebuilt and congregations that need to be re-infused, reinvigorated and to be jump-started so they can function as healthy congregations. The job is not finished.
Are all the AME Churches operational? Have all of the pastors regained their back pay and are they receiving their salaries? Are all of the members, who want to return to New Orleans, back in their homes? Have they all returned to their jobs? Will all of our children who were displaced by Hurricane Katrina have a nice Christmas?
If the answer to any of the questions is, “No,” then our Katrina effort is not complete.
I hope that the African Methodist Episcopal Church will continue its effort to comfort those person displaced by Katrina. We still have work to do and I hope that we will continue to be as excited as we were, immediately after the storm.
The six o’clock NBC news (12/20/05) featured a segment that showed that African Americans were, and continue to be, treated unfairly when trying to find housing. Blatant racism has been exposed and it tells me that the battle for equality is not a fait accompli. I didn’t need the six o’clock news to tell me that there was racial bias in the treatment of the Hurricane victims seeking housing and relocation assistance.
We must stay on the “battlefield” and continue the fight for basic human rights. Hurricane Katrina exposed the open wound and it still needs to be treated. The Church must be a “thermostat” for freedom and equality and not a “thermometer.” Richard Allen and the Free African Society was a “thermostat” for freedom and human rights. The after-affects of Katrina was not a problem, it was a condition. Problems can often be solved with a few readjustments, but it takes a long time to correct a condition.
Let’s make sure that we are not lured into a false sense of believing that our assistance immediately after the hurricane was sufficient. We “met the requirements,” but now we need to “exceed the requirements” by keeping our “hands on the plow.” We must not look back. We must move forward!
2. THE WISH LIST – CON’T:
- That our AME Congregations make Christian Education a top priority, fully support local Church School education, raise their Biblical IQs and adopt the attitude of the Bereans (Acts 17:11) regarding Bible Study. May we all be re-dedicated to the principle - "Studying the Scriptures to Serve Humanity."
Bill Dickens
Bethel AMEC
Tallahassee, FL
- That the pastor appoints members to the Steward Board and the congregation elects the remaining members of the Steward Board.
Lisa Dove
EJLISADOVE@aol.com
3. AME HISTORIOGRAPHER AS RECOGNIZED WESLEYAN SCHOLAR:
Both nationally and globally, the A.M.E Church Historiographer, the Reverend Dennis C. Dickerson, Ph.D., the Executive Director of the Department of Research and Scholarship and editor of the A.M.E. CHURCH REVIEW, is known as a scholar of African Methodism.
On October 28-29, 2005 at Nazarene Theological Seminary in Kansas City, Missouri, he met with other scholars of the Wesleyan tradition at the 2005 Wesleyan/Pentecostal Consultation. Dr. Dickerson joined colleagues from Wesley Theological Seminary, St. Paul School of Theology, University of Missouri, Columbia, Fuller Theological Seminary, and other institutions in presenting papers on how Wesleyan theology and doctrine have informed the broad Methodist and Pentecostal experiences.
Dr. Dickerson delivered a paper on “Bishop Daniel A. Payne and the A.M.E. Mission to the ‘Ransomed’.” In the presentation, the Historiographer discussed Payne’s development of the 1856 A.M.E. creedal statement, “God Our Father, Christ Our Redeemer, Man Our Brother.” He juxtaposed Payne’s doctrinal posture with that of the 1908 General Conference which declared, “God Our Father, Christ Our Redeemer, the Holy Ghost Our Comforter”, Man Our Brother.” Dr. Dickerson said, “The Azusa Street revivals in 1906 had challenged the nation’s oldest black religious body to acknowledge the present reality of the Holy Ghost and to remind African Methodists that sanctifying power from the third person in the Godhead stirred the same religious enthusiasm that marked their Wesleyan origins.” The paper was received and ignited extensive discussion among his conferees.
The following month Dr. Dickerson, who recently served as President of the American Society of Church History, traveled to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania where he had been invited to participate in the proceedings of the American Academy of Religion. On November 21, 2005, he served as commentator in a session “W. E. B. Du Bois and the Discourse of African American Religious History and Historiography.” The Papers were given by professors at Bates College, Florida State University, and the University of Missouri, Kansas City on Du Bois and Henry O. Tanner, the black church and Du Bois, and Du Bois’ social scientific study of black religion. Dr. Dickerson critiqued these papers by drawing upon his 2003 publication in the A.M.E. CHURCH REVIEW on Du Bois, the SOULS OF BLACK FOLK, and the genesis of African American religious history. Present in the audience were A.M.E. scholars, Dr. James H. Cone of Union Theological Seminary, New York City and Dr. Larry G. Murphy of Garrett Evangelical Theological Seminary, Evanston, Illinois.
The African Methodist Episcopal Church is appreciative for the manner in which Dr. Dickerson, the Church’s 13th Historiographer and 13th Editor of The A.M.E. Church Review represents African Methodism.
4. INTRODUCING THE 11th EPISCOPAL DISTRICT’S MEDIA TEAM LED BY BISHOP MCKINLEY YOUNG & DR. DOROTHY J. YOUNG:
Spread the word, there is no need to search, “There’s a place for you in the African Methodist Episcopal Church!”
By Angela Surcey Garner
This year’s Planning Conference for the 11th Episcopal District, was filled with much work and a new campaign for the African Methodist Episcopal Church. Bishop McKinley Young organized a new Media Ministry representing all of the Conferences in the District. The team met for the first time, on Friday, August 12, 2005 at the Enterprise Center in Jacksonville, FL. The members are Bishop McKinley Young, Dr. Dorothy Jackson Young, Rev. Kenneth Irby (Coordinator), Sis. Karen Richardson (Co-Coordinator), Sis. Angela Surcey Garner (Secretary), Rev. Marvin C. Zanders, II, Rev. Clarence Williams, Rev. Mark Griffin, Rev. Marcius O. King, Rev. John D. Williams, Sr., Rev. Anthony Reed, Rev. Gerard Moss, Sis. Mavis Bush, Rev. Mark Crutcher and Elder Thomas B. DeSue.
The logo includes the state of Florida and the Bahamas, our Cross and Anvil, exclusively representing the A.M.E. Church, and our new slogan, “There’s a Place for You in the African Methodist Episcopal Church.” The final logo is under reconstruction, will be presented in the next issue of the Communiqué and will be available for use upon completion, at the A.M.E. Church’s Website (www.ame-church.com). Our logo is the result of a vision from Bishop Young that he verbalized during one of our meetings. Sister Angela Surcey Garner submitted the first drafts of the logo; then those ideas evolved into the final drafts created by another artist who we are grateful to, Ed Hashey.
Our goals and objectives were culminated from the entire team through many discussions in meetings and conference calls, but summarized and professionally recorded by Rev. Kenneth Irby. We presented everything in a PowerPoint presentation created by the Rev. Clarence Williams at the Thursday morning plenary session of the Planning Conference. Individual presentations were also given of various ministries, including the Lay Organization, pastors and ministers, Women’s Missionary Society, Women in Ministry, Debutantes and Masters Commission and Ministers’ Spouse Alliance. Our message is one of outreach and reclamation, and seeks to let all know, “There’s a place for YOU in the African Methodist Episcopal Church.” Our goals and objectives follow. We pray all will catch the vision and get the word out in your areas.
Goals: Expansion, Exposure and Enlargement
1. Evangelism: To attract unbelievers to the body of Jesus the Christ through the African Methodist Episcopal Church tradition.
2. Reclamation: To reclaim and reinvigorate members of the African Methodist Episcopal church who have become dormant.
3. Public Teaching & Awareness: To increase public awareness through traditional and electronic media, creative marketing and targeted advertising across the state of Florida and the Bahamas Islands, with emphasis on how well we serve.
Objectives:
Launch a comprehensive outreach, media and marketing campaign within the Eleventh Episcopal District rolling out at the 2005-06 Tampa planning meeting that follows the thematic thrust: “There is a place for YOU in the African Methodist Episcopal Church.”
Restore the impact of the AMEC, once described by W. E. B. DuBois his 1903 book titled The Souls of Black Folk, “…Methodists were compelled early to unite for purposes of Episcopal government. This gave rise to the great African Methodist Church, the greatest Negro organization in the world, to the Zion Church and the Colored Methodist, and to the black conferences and churches in this and other denominations.”
Make manifest the unique and rich mission of the African Methodist Episcopal Church as outlined in The Doctrine and Discipline of the African Methodist Episcopal Church 2000, page
The first thing you can do is take our theme back to your churches and to the streets, spreading the message and meeting people where they are. More information will post in future issues of The Christian Recorder. For related comments and questions, send E-mail to: MediaTeam11th@bellsouth.net or eedmt@bellsouth.net God bless!
5. THE ELIZABETH AREA PAYS HOMAGE TO AN EXTRAORDINARY LIFE MEMBER AT AN ANNUAL DAY PROGRAM:
On Sunday, October 30, 2005, The Elizabeth Area paid homage to Rev. Mildred Jackson, Life Member of the Women’s Missionary Society. The event was held at Mt. Pisgah A.M.E Church, Jersey City, New Jersey as a part of The Elizabeth Area Annual Day Program. She has dedicated over 52 years of her life to mission’s work that has included working with the homeless and finding housing for people who were previously incarcerated.
Rev. Jackson, a native of St. Augustine, Florida, met and married her husband, the late Rev. Jesse J. Jackson, after traveling to New York City. She worked along side her husband as the first lady of 10 churches where he pastored. She has two sons, Jesse J. Jackson, Jr., who is a musician, and Calvin W. Jackson, who is the pastor of Mount Zion A.M.E. Church in Darby, PA. Also, she has two daughters-in-law, Darlene and Charlemagne, and has been blessed with four grandchildren, Calvin, Jr., Jesse, III, Aaron, and Taran, and one great-grandchild, Jemil.
In addition to her family obligations, Rev. Jackson was a school teacher for 23 years in the New York and Philadelphia areas. She has taught in Early Childhood Development as a substitute and special education teacher for elementary school grades including Kindergarten within the Christian and Public School settings.
She is currently the Vice President of the Tenants Association in the building in which she lives. She also served as the President of the New Jersey Conference Women’s Missionary Society from 1971 – 1974.
Rev. Jackson was called into the ministry in 1984 and currently serves as an Associate Minister at Mount Zion A.M.E. Church in New Brunswick, New Jersey, where she assists with the Sick and Communion Ministries. She is also a member of the Seniors Ministry at Mount Zion. Her motto is “Let the work I’ve done, speak for me.”
Rev. Jackson is an extraordinary woman who continues to reach out to people in need and to spread the word of God. She is truly deserving of the title of Women’s Missionary Society Life Member!
Written by: Antoinette S. Johnson
Photo by: Bert Robinson
Mount Zion A.M.E. Church
39 Morris Street/Hildebrand Way
New Brunswick, NJ 08901
(732) 249-8476
http://www.mountzioname.org/
Rev. Mildred Jackson, Women’s Missionary Society
Life Member honoree at the Elizabeth Area
Women’s Missionary Society Annual Day Program
Sunday, October 30, 2005
6. BISHOP HENRY W. MURPH TO BE HONORED DEC. 29 WITH BIRTHDAY BASH; CONNECTIONAL AFFAIR EXPECTED TO DRAW MORE THAN 300:
LOS ANGELES — (December 20, 2005) — The Rt. Rev. Henry Wendell Murph is having a birthday party and the entire A.M.E. Church is invited to share in the celebration.
Murph, the 86th elected and consecrated Bishop of the African Methodist Episcopal Church, will be honored through music, photography, poetry and dramatic presentation at 6:45 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 29.
He is the most senior of the 21 active and 14 retired bishops of African Methodism. Five of his colleagues are expected to join in the momentous affair: retired Bishop H. Hartford Brookins, along with Bishops John R. Bryant, T. Larry Kirkland and Carolyn Tyler-Guidry, presiding prelates of the Fifth, Ninth and Sixteenth districts, respectively.
In all, more than 300 dignitaries, clergy, community leaders, former parishioners, family and friends are expected to participate in the celebration at the WLCAC in Watts, 10950 South Central Avenue.
Paying special tribute will be Murph’s son, Frederick, pastor of the Brookins Community A.M.E. Church in Los Angeles. The younger Murph availed himself to the Bishopric in 2004 and is prayerfully considering another bid for the Episcopacy in 2008, exactly 40 years after his father was elected.
“Bishop Murph is one of the giants of African Methodism on whose shoulders we proudly stand,” said the Rev. Leslie R. White, speaking on behalf of the thousands of persons who have been influenced by Murhph’s ministry. “It is only fitting that the denomination he gave his life to and the community he served for nearly two decades would join together to pay tribute to him.”
A native of Orangeburg, South Carolina, Murph is the son of Presiding Elder and Mrs. J. W. Murph. A graduate of Allen University, Columbia, S.C., and Oberlin Graduate School of Theology, Oberlin, Ohio, Murph actually began his pastoral ministry in Georgia. There he distinguished himself as a “master pastor,” retiring mortgages, uniting congregations and saving souls.
According to the history of St. Phillip A.M.E. Church in Savannah, Ga., for example, his greatest success during his eight-year pastorate “was in the ability to get the full cooperation of the membership” in paring Church debt and installing a new pipe organ.
Those God-given talents would prove invaluable when Murph was appointed pastor of Grant in 1950, where he served for 18 years. During his tenure, membership increased ten-fold and a new edifice was erected which stands to this day one of the most beautiful worship facilities in all of African Methodism.
A savvy statesman, Murph played a pivotal role in the decision of the General Services Administration (now the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development) to house the Social Security Office in Watts – on property owned by Grant no less. He was also instrumental in leading the Watts community during the tumultuous years following the 1965 Watts riots.
In 1968, at the 38th Session of the General Conference of the A.M.E. Church in Philadelphia, Murph was elected to the Episcopal Bench with the mandate to transform the nation’s oldest African-American denomination. He would go on to do just that, serving as presiding prelate of the Eighteenth, Seventeenth, Second, Tenth and Fifth districts and leaving in his wake a legacy of leadership, stewardship and Christian service.
In the years since his retirement in 1988, and in spite of recent illness, Murph has remained active in the Watts community and the A.M.E. Church. He is a crowd-favorite when he appears at worship events and conferences of the Church.
Murph and his wife Geraldine live in Los Angeles and have been married “forever,” says the Rev. Hester Lively, a family friend and associate minister of Grant.
Admission is $40 per person and includes a gourmet dinner. Cards, resolutions, testimonials, photos, gifts and well-wishes may be sent to Bishop Murph’s 95th Birthday Celebration, c/o Bro. Don Scott, Chairperson, Grant A.M.E. Church, 10435 South Central Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90002 or faxed to (323) 564-5027.
For more information, visit http://www.grantamechurch.org/ or call (323) 564-1151.
7. GREAT THINGS GOING ON AROUND THE AME CHURCH:
- The Fourth Episcopal District has a bound 2006 Fourth Episcopal Directory. The Directory has the mailing addresses and email addresses for those who have email addresses of active and retired Bishops, General and Connectional Officers. It even has an index with an alphabetical list of all of the persons listed in the Directory.
Kudos to the Fourth Episcopal District for a great publication. If you do not have one of the Directories, you should order one by emailing 4thadministrator@sbcglobal.net or by calling 773.373-6587.
- The Thirteenth Episcopal District has an electronic 13th Episcopal District Directory.
- The First Episcopal district has a District Newspaper, The First District Flame, which is full of great information about news events in the First Episcopal District.
8. 2005 ACCOUNTABILITY OF RESOURCES OF THE THIRTEENTH EPISCOPAL DISTRICT:
Bishop Vashti Murphy McKenzie, Presiding Bishop
Mr. Stan McKenzie, Supervisor of Missions
- $ 12,940 in grants awarded to churches and individuals in the 13th District through Believe, Inc.
- $ 11,608 in Benevolence ($3,470 directly to churches in the 13th District)
- $ 97,731.66 in Debts paid off:
> $80,731.56 paid to Second Presbyterian Church (Clayborn Temple, Memphis)
> $17,000 paid for demolition of ancillary building (Clayborn Temple, Memphis)
- Thirteen churches assisted by the Nehemiah Nation
- 173 Continuing Education Certificates earned through Payne Theological Seminary
- Five Clergy Institutes held at the seat of all Annual Conferences
- Three new churches planted
- 1,200 people at the Christian Education Leadership Congress in Louisville, Kentucky
- 13th District Living Well and Walking Ministry begun
- Annual Conference and District Prayer Ministry encouraged
- Living Well Annual Conference Institutes
- 1st Annual A.M.E. Works Day
- Two “Cross to Pentecost” Revivals held (Lexington, Kentucky and Nashville, Tennessee)
- The Cross to Pentecost Devotional Guide published and sold out
- Over 300 copies of The Anvil sold in the 13th District
- Bishop McKenzie visited 85% of churches in the District
- $43,000 raised for Katrina effort
- 11 tractor-trailers went south from the District with supplies for Katrina victims
9. ARTICLE IN THE CHARLESTON.NET FEATURES SISTER EVA BROWN, MOTHER-IN-LAW OF THE REVEREND KENNETH GOPHIN AND THE MOTHER OF DIANNA GOLPHIN:
In the past two years, Eva Brown, 68, has devoted more than 4,000 hours of her time to helping elderly people in McClellanville, South Carolina where she lives and grew up. On weekdays, she visits two elderly women to help with light housework - cooking, cleaning, and gardening.
For this, she recently received the President's Lifetime Volunteer Service Award. But, that's not what keeps her going. Her work helps the women remain independent and reduces their risk of having a fall.
The article was written by Michael Gartleand and may be seen in its entirety at
http://www.charleston.net/stories/default.aspx?newsID=59682§ion=localnews
Mrs. Eva Brown. She is a life long member of Greater Mount Zion AME Church in McClellanville, SC.
10. THE 2006 WEEK OF PRAYER FOR CHRISTIAN UNITY:
"Where two or three are gathered in my name, I am there among them" from Matt. 18:20 is the theme of the 2006 edition of the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity.
An ecumenical group in Ireland chose it.
Jointly prepared since 1968 by the World Council of Churches (WCC) and the Roman Catholic Church, the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity is traditionally celebrated from 18-25 January, although in the Southern hemisphere, other dates are sometimes chosen, for example, around Pentecost.
Setting out their reasons for choosing Matt. 18:20 as the central biblical text and theme for 2006, the Irish preparatory group explained that they "wished to draw attention to Jesus as the source of our unity" and to underline "the simplicity of two or three coming together in Christian mutual love as a vital means of building up relations between divided peoples and communities."
They were, moreover, "mindful that hope for the future, and peace and reconciliation in the present necessarily involved dealing with painful memories and hurtful grievances of the past."
It is "in that spirit," they say, "that all Christians who use these Week of Prayer resources are encouraged to come together in prayer and in mutual love to seek to understand each other amidst differences".
Week of Prayer resources include an introduction to the theme, a suggested ecumenical worship service that local churches are encouraged to adapt for their own particular liturgical, social and cultural contexts, biblical reflections and prayers for the "eight days," and additional prayers from, and an overview of, the ecumenical situation in the particular country that has prepared the material - in this case, Ireland.
The 2006 Week of Prayer materials are available on the WCC website at:
http://wcc-coe.org/wcc/what/faith/wop2006contents.html
11. NCC WELCOMES THE SENATE'S CAUTION ABOUT RENEWAL OF THE USA PATRIOT ACT:
New York, December 19, 2005 -- The National Council of Churches today praised the U.S. Senate for its caution when it declined to end a filibuster blocking the renewal of the USA Patriot Act.
"The Patriot Act was hastily enacted after 9/11 in an attempt to protect U.S. citizens from further terrorist violence," said Dr. Antonios Kireopoulos, associate general secretary of the NCC for International Affairs and Peace. "It's now time to ask ourselves what this law has meant with respect to our most basic freedoms."
Last month, the General Assembly of the NCC and Church World Service passed a resolution calling for "ever-vigilant" support of civil and religious liberties. The resolution expresses concern that the Patriot Act "has the potential for vastly eroding" those liberties.
"The provisions of the act are in seeming conflict with the Fourth Amendment prohibition against unreasonable searches and seizures," the resolution states. "These provisions include: delayed-notice search warrants to secretly investigate potential criminals; national security letters to secretly gather private and confidential information; relaxed restrictions on wiretapping; and extensive use of deportation and denial of immigrant applications based on unknowing associations."
Last week President Bush admitted authorizing wiretaps on U.S. citizens and said they were necessary to uncover terrorist plans. Even so, many of the 40 Democrats and four Republicans who voted against a motion to end the filibuster cited this unusual measure as one of their concerns.
In a series of public statements, Mr. Bush has defended the Patriot Act as a necessary weapon for the war on terrorism. "In the war on terror, we cannot afford to be without this law for a single moment," he said. The Patriot Act's 16 major provisions will expire Dec. 31 unless Congress extends them.
"We're not calling upon the government to abandon its responsibility to defend its citizens," said the Rev. Dr. Bob Edgar, general secretary of the NCC. "At the same time, there is no more eloquent rebuke to our terrorist enemies than to show we will never back away from the religious and civil liberties they seem to hate so much."
The full text of the General Assembly's "Resolution on the Threat to Civil and Religious Liberties in Post-9/11 America" can be found at http://www.ncccusa.org/news/051130GAResolutions.html#Liberties
The National Council of Churches USA is composed of 35 Protestant, Anglican, Orthodox, historic African American and peace communions representing 45 million Christians in 100,000 local congregations in the United States.
12. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
From: StanMcKenzie44@aol.com (Supervisor Stan McKenzie)
Mrs. Sarah Speights, the mother of Second Episcopal District Episcopal Supervisor Connie Speights Richardson and the mother-in-law of Bishop Adam Jefferson Richardson, Presiding Bishop, Second Episcopal District passed this morning.
Service arrangements are pending.
Contact Information:
Office:
Second Episcopal District AME Church
1134 11th Street, NWWashington, DC 20001
202) 842-3788 - Phone(202) 289-1942 – fax
Residence:
6209 Stoneham Lane
McLean, VA 22101
703-442-0261 (Phone)
Tallahassee, Florida Address
3715 Forsythe Way
Tallahassee, FL 32309
(850) 893-1939 (Phone)
(850) 893-1959 (Fax)
13. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
From: gedmaur@cwbda.bm
At about 3:30 this morning, after a brief illness, God called Sister Augusta Henrietta Douglas, mother of the Reverend V. A. Deyone Douglas, Pastor of St. Luke AME Church and the Rev. C. Maureen Clemendor, Local Elder of St. Philip AME Church in Bermuda, to her heavenly reward.
Three other daughters and a son also survive Mother Douglas, as she was affectionately known. A home going service is being planned and more information will be forthcoming. We ask that you keep the family in our prayers.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Matilda Smith Williams Senior’s Residence of Agape House.
Messages of condolence may be forwarded to:
Rev. V. A. Deyone Douglas
St. Luke A.M.E. Church
P.O. Box DD133
St. David’s DDBX
Tel: (441) 297-1564
Fax (441) 297-2457
dvadboston@yahoo.com
Rev. C. Maureen Clemendor
St. Philip A.M.E. Church
P. O. Box HS14
Smith’s HSBX
Tel: (441) 293-0882
Fax: (441) 293-7936
Email: stphilipame@tbinet.bm or gedmaur@cwbda.bm
14. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
From: hilldrkenneth@comcast.net
Mrs. Hannah Heard the mother of Mrs. Sarah Twiggs (immediate past Conference Branch WMS President, East Tennessee Conference and wife of The Reverend Lawrence O. Twiggs.
Service Arrangements:
(1st Service)
Tuesday, Dec 20, 2005
Tabernacle Baptist Church
Columbus, Ohio
Family hour: 6: 00 PM
Funeral 6:30 PM.
(2nd Service)
Thursday Dec 22, 2005
11:00 AM
Mt. Olive Baptist Church
Anniston, Alabama
Condolences may be sent to:
Mrs. Sarah Twiggs and Family
6420 Ridge Lake Road
Hixon, TN 37343
423-842-6346 (Phone)
From Mamie Hamler & Presiding Elder Kenneth H. Hill
Chattanooga District - East Tennessee Conference
Bishop Vashti M. McKenzie, Presiding Prelate 13th Episcopal District
15. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
From: PastorGolphin@aol.com
Mrs. Mellodey Hoskins, daughter of Reverend MacArthur Pendleton and Dr. Kathy Pendleton (Bethel AME Church - Campbellsville, KY) passed in Chicago, IL on December 17, 2005.
Services are entrusted to:
Leek and Sons Funeral Home
304 East Williams
Danville, Illinois 61832
Condolences may be sent to:
Reverend MacArthur Pendleton and Dr. Kathy Pendleton
Bethel AME Church
240 Lone Valley Rd
Campbellsville, KY 42718
From: Rev. Kenneth Golphin
16. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
The passing of Mrs. Dorothy Woods Hill of Rutherford, TN, on Saturday, December 17, 2005. Mrs. Hill is the mother of Rev. Willie V. Woods, Pastor of New Allen A.M.E. Church, Memphis, TN and the mother-in-law of Mrs. Mondella Woods, President of the 13th Episcopal District M-SWAWO. Service arrangements are incomplete at this time.
Condolences may be sent to:
Rev. Willie V. Woods and Family
9178 Afton Grove
Cordova, TN 38018
(901) 756-6171 (Phone)
Email Condolences: Mbswoods@aol.com
17. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
Mrs. Ruth D. Barber of Pasadena, CA passed on last Friday, December 16, 2005. Mrs. Ruth Barber is the mother of the Reverend Nolan Watson, pastor of Bethel A.M.E. Church -Little Rock, AR, of the 12th Episcopal District, where Rev. Richard A. Chappelle is Bishop
Service Arrangements:
Friday, December 23, 2005
1:00 AM
Calvery C.M.E. Church
135 Glorieta Street
Pasadena, CA
Condolences may be sent to:
Reverend Nolan Watson and Family
Bethel AME Church815 West 15th Street Little Rock , AR 72202 501-374-2891 (Phone)
Email Condolences:nwatson7@alltel.net
18. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT ANNOUNCEMENTS PROVIDED BY:
Bishop Carolyn Tyler Guidry, Chair
Commission on Social Action Clergy Family Information Center
Mrs. Ora L. Easley - Administrator Email: Amespouses1@aol.com
(Nashville, Tennessee Contact) Phone: (615) 837-9736 Fax: (615) 833-3781
(Memphis, Tennessee Contact) (901) 578-4554 (Phone & Fax)
Please remember these families in your prayers.
19. CONDOLENCES TO THE BEREAVED FROM THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER:
The Chair of the Commission on Publications, the Right Reverend Gregory G. M. Ingram; the Publisher, the Reverend Dr. Johnny Barbour and the Editor of the Christian Recorder, the Reverend Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III offer our condolences and prayers to those who have lost loved ones. We pray that the peace of Christ will be with you during this time of your bereavement.
The Reverend Dr. Johnny Barbour, Jr., Publisher
The Reverend Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III, Editor
1. HURRICANE KATRINA IS NOT OVER; THE KATRINA EPISODE WAS A CONDITION, WAS NOT A PROBLEM:
It seems that we have gotten quiet about Hurricane Katrina. I do not hear much about Katrina and the strategy as a follow-up to all of the great work that we did immediately following the catastrophe. The Katrina issue is far from over. We still have work to do. We still have lives to put back together and to be given hope. . We have families that need to be reunited and homes that need to be refurbished or rebuilt. We have churches that need to be repaired or rebuilt and congregations that need to be re-infused, reinvigorated and to be jump-started so they can function as healthy congregations. The job is not finished.
Are all the AME Churches operational? Have all of the pastors regained their back pay and are they receiving their salaries? Are all of the members, who want to return to New Orleans, back in their homes? Have they all returned to their jobs? Will all of our children who were displaced by Hurricane Katrina have a nice Christmas?
If the answer to any of the questions is, “No,” then our Katrina effort is not complete.
I hope that the African Methodist Episcopal Church will continue its effort to comfort those person displaced by Katrina. We still have work to do and I hope that we will continue to be as excited as we were, immediately after the storm.
The six o’clock NBC news (12/20/05) featured a segment that showed that African Americans were, and continue to be, treated unfairly when trying to find housing. Blatant racism has been exposed and it tells me that the battle for equality is not a fait accompli. I didn’t need the six o’clock news to tell me that there was racial bias in the treatment of the Hurricane victims seeking housing and relocation assistance.
We must stay on the “battlefield” and continue the fight for basic human rights. Hurricane Katrina exposed the open wound and it still needs to be treated. The Church must be a “thermostat” for freedom and equality and not a “thermometer.” Richard Allen and the Free African Society was a “thermostat” for freedom and human rights. The after-affects of Katrina was not a problem, it was a condition. Problems can often be solved with a few readjustments, but it takes a long time to correct a condition.
Let’s make sure that we are not lured into a false sense of believing that our assistance immediately after the hurricane was sufficient. We “met the requirements,” but now we need to “exceed the requirements” by keeping our “hands on the plow.” We must not look back. We must move forward!
2. THE WISH LIST – CON’T:
- That our AME Congregations make Christian Education a top priority, fully support local Church School education, raise their Biblical IQs and adopt the attitude of the Bereans (Acts 17:11) regarding Bible Study. May we all be re-dedicated to the principle - "Studying the Scriptures to Serve Humanity."
Bill Dickens
Bethel AMEC
Tallahassee, FL
- That the pastor appoints members to the Steward Board and the congregation elects the remaining members of the Steward Board.
Lisa Dove
EJLISADOVE@aol.com
3. AME HISTORIOGRAPHER AS RECOGNIZED WESLEYAN SCHOLAR:
Both nationally and globally, the A.M.E Church Historiographer, the Reverend Dennis C. Dickerson, Ph.D., the Executive Director of the Department of Research and Scholarship and editor of the A.M.E. CHURCH REVIEW, is known as a scholar of African Methodism.
On October 28-29, 2005 at Nazarene Theological Seminary in Kansas City, Missouri, he met with other scholars of the Wesleyan tradition at the 2005 Wesleyan/Pentecostal Consultation. Dr. Dickerson joined colleagues from Wesley Theological Seminary, St. Paul School of Theology, University of Missouri, Columbia, Fuller Theological Seminary, and other institutions in presenting papers on how Wesleyan theology and doctrine have informed the broad Methodist and Pentecostal experiences.
Dr. Dickerson delivered a paper on “Bishop Daniel A. Payne and the A.M.E. Mission to the ‘Ransomed’.” In the presentation, the Historiographer discussed Payne’s development of the 1856 A.M.E. creedal statement, “God Our Father, Christ Our Redeemer, Man Our Brother.” He juxtaposed Payne’s doctrinal posture with that of the 1908 General Conference which declared, “God Our Father, Christ Our Redeemer, the Holy Ghost Our Comforter”, Man Our Brother.” Dr. Dickerson said, “The Azusa Street revivals in 1906 had challenged the nation’s oldest black religious body to acknowledge the present reality of the Holy Ghost and to remind African Methodists that sanctifying power from the third person in the Godhead stirred the same religious enthusiasm that marked their Wesleyan origins.” The paper was received and ignited extensive discussion among his conferees.
The following month Dr. Dickerson, who recently served as President of the American Society of Church History, traveled to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania where he had been invited to participate in the proceedings of the American Academy of Religion. On November 21, 2005, he served as commentator in a session “W. E. B. Du Bois and the Discourse of African American Religious History and Historiography.” The Papers were given by professors at Bates College, Florida State University, and the University of Missouri, Kansas City on Du Bois and Henry O. Tanner, the black church and Du Bois, and Du Bois’ social scientific study of black religion. Dr. Dickerson critiqued these papers by drawing upon his 2003 publication in the A.M.E. CHURCH REVIEW on Du Bois, the SOULS OF BLACK FOLK, and the genesis of African American religious history. Present in the audience were A.M.E. scholars, Dr. James H. Cone of Union Theological Seminary, New York City and Dr. Larry G. Murphy of Garrett Evangelical Theological Seminary, Evanston, Illinois.
The African Methodist Episcopal Church is appreciative for the manner in which Dr. Dickerson, the Church’s 13th Historiographer and 13th Editor of The A.M.E. Church Review represents African Methodism.
4. INTRODUCING THE 11th EPISCOPAL DISTRICT’S MEDIA TEAM LED BY BISHOP MCKINLEY YOUNG & DR. DOROTHY J. YOUNG:
Spread the word, there is no need to search, “There’s a place for you in the African Methodist Episcopal Church!”
By Angela Surcey Garner
This year’s Planning Conference for the 11th Episcopal District, was filled with much work and a new campaign for the African Methodist Episcopal Church. Bishop McKinley Young organized a new Media Ministry representing all of the Conferences in the District. The team met for the first time, on Friday, August 12, 2005 at the Enterprise Center in Jacksonville, FL. The members are Bishop McKinley Young, Dr. Dorothy Jackson Young, Rev. Kenneth Irby (Coordinator), Sis. Karen Richardson (Co-Coordinator), Sis. Angela Surcey Garner (Secretary), Rev. Marvin C. Zanders, II, Rev. Clarence Williams, Rev. Mark Griffin, Rev. Marcius O. King, Rev. John D. Williams, Sr., Rev. Anthony Reed, Rev. Gerard Moss, Sis. Mavis Bush, Rev. Mark Crutcher and Elder Thomas B. DeSue.
The logo includes the state of Florida and the Bahamas, our Cross and Anvil, exclusively representing the A.M.E. Church, and our new slogan, “There’s a Place for You in the African Methodist Episcopal Church.” The final logo is under reconstruction, will be presented in the next issue of the Communiqué and will be available for use upon completion, at the A.M.E. Church’s Website (www.ame-church.com). Our logo is the result of a vision from Bishop Young that he verbalized during one of our meetings. Sister Angela Surcey Garner submitted the first drafts of the logo; then those ideas evolved into the final drafts created by another artist who we are grateful to, Ed Hashey.
Our goals and objectives were culminated from the entire team through many discussions in meetings and conference calls, but summarized and professionally recorded by Rev. Kenneth Irby. We presented everything in a PowerPoint presentation created by the Rev. Clarence Williams at the Thursday morning plenary session of the Planning Conference. Individual presentations were also given of various ministries, including the Lay Organization, pastors and ministers, Women’s Missionary Society, Women in Ministry, Debutantes and Masters Commission and Ministers’ Spouse Alliance. Our message is one of outreach and reclamation, and seeks to let all know, “There’s a place for YOU in the African Methodist Episcopal Church.” Our goals and objectives follow. We pray all will catch the vision and get the word out in your areas.
Goals: Expansion, Exposure and Enlargement
1. Evangelism: To attract unbelievers to the body of Jesus the Christ through the African Methodist Episcopal Church tradition.
2. Reclamation: To reclaim and reinvigorate members of the African Methodist Episcopal church who have become dormant.
3. Public Teaching & Awareness: To increase public awareness through traditional and electronic media, creative marketing and targeted advertising across the state of Florida and the Bahamas Islands, with emphasis on how well we serve.
Objectives:
Launch a comprehensive outreach, media and marketing campaign within the Eleventh Episcopal District rolling out at the 2005-06 Tampa planning meeting that follows the thematic thrust: “There is a place for YOU in the African Methodist Episcopal Church.”
Restore the impact of the AMEC, once described by W. E. B. DuBois his 1903 book titled The Souls of Black Folk, “…Methodists were compelled early to unite for purposes of Episcopal government. This gave rise to the great African Methodist Church, the greatest Negro organization in the world, to the Zion Church and the Colored Methodist, and to the black conferences and churches in this and other denominations.”
Make manifest the unique and rich mission of the African Methodist Episcopal Church as outlined in The Doctrine and Discipline of the African Methodist Episcopal Church 2000, page
The first thing you can do is take our theme back to your churches and to the streets, spreading the message and meeting people where they are. More information will post in future issues of The Christian Recorder. For related comments and questions, send E-mail to: MediaTeam11th@bellsouth.net or eedmt@bellsouth.net God bless!
5. THE ELIZABETH AREA PAYS HOMAGE TO AN EXTRAORDINARY LIFE MEMBER AT AN ANNUAL DAY PROGRAM:
On Sunday, October 30, 2005, The Elizabeth Area paid homage to Rev. Mildred Jackson, Life Member of the Women’s Missionary Society. The event was held at Mt. Pisgah A.M.E Church, Jersey City, New Jersey as a part of The Elizabeth Area Annual Day Program. She has dedicated over 52 years of her life to mission’s work that has included working with the homeless and finding housing for people who were previously incarcerated.
Rev. Jackson, a native of St. Augustine, Florida, met and married her husband, the late Rev. Jesse J. Jackson, after traveling to New York City. She worked along side her husband as the first lady of 10 churches where he pastored. She has two sons, Jesse J. Jackson, Jr., who is a musician, and Calvin W. Jackson, who is the pastor of Mount Zion A.M.E. Church in Darby, PA. Also, she has two daughters-in-law, Darlene and Charlemagne, and has been blessed with four grandchildren, Calvin, Jr., Jesse, III, Aaron, and Taran, and one great-grandchild, Jemil.
In addition to her family obligations, Rev. Jackson was a school teacher for 23 years in the New York and Philadelphia areas. She has taught in Early Childhood Development as a substitute and special education teacher for elementary school grades including Kindergarten within the Christian and Public School settings.
She is currently the Vice President of the Tenants Association in the building in which she lives. She also served as the President of the New Jersey Conference Women’s Missionary Society from 1971 – 1974.
Rev. Jackson was called into the ministry in 1984 and currently serves as an Associate Minister at Mount Zion A.M.E. Church in New Brunswick, New Jersey, where she assists with the Sick and Communion Ministries. She is also a member of the Seniors Ministry at Mount Zion. Her motto is “Let the work I’ve done, speak for me.”
Rev. Jackson is an extraordinary woman who continues to reach out to people in need and to spread the word of God. She is truly deserving of the title of Women’s Missionary Society Life Member!
Written by: Antoinette S. Johnson
Photo by: Bert Robinson
Mount Zion A.M.E. Church
39 Morris Street/Hildebrand Way
New Brunswick, NJ 08901
(732) 249-8476
http://www.mountzioname.org/
Rev. Mildred Jackson, Women’s Missionary Society
Life Member honoree at the Elizabeth Area
Women’s Missionary Society Annual Day Program
Sunday, October 30, 2005
6. BISHOP HENRY W. MURPH TO BE HONORED DEC. 29 WITH BIRTHDAY BASH; CONNECTIONAL AFFAIR EXPECTED TO DRAW MORE THAN 300:
LOS ANGELES — (December 20, 2005) — The Rt. Rev. Henry Wendell Murph is having a birthday party and the entire A.M.E. Church is invited to share in the celebration.
Murph, the 86th elected and consecrated Bishop of the African Methodist Episcopal Church, will be honored through music, photography, poetry and dramatic presentation at 6:45 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 29.
He is the most senior of the 21 active and 14 retired bishops of African Methodism. Five of his colleagues are expected to join in the momentous affair: retired Bishop H. Hartford Brookins, along with Bishops John R. Bryant, T. Larry Kirkland and Carolyn Tyler-Guidry, presiding prelates of the Fifth, Ninth and Sixteenth districts, respectively.
In all, more than 300 dignitaries, clergy, community leaders, former parishioners, family and friends are expected to participate in the celebration at the WLCAC in Watts, 10950 South Central Avenue.
Paying special tribute will be Murph’s son, Frederick, pastor of the Brookins Community A.M.E. Church in Los Angeles. The younger Murph availed himself to the Bishopric in 2004 and is prayerfully considering another bid for the Episcopacy in 2008, exactly 40 years after his father was elected.
“Bishop Murph is one of the giants of African Methodism on whose shoulders we proudly stand,” said the Rev. Leslie R. White, speaking on behalf of the thousands of persons who have been influenced by Murhph’s ministry. “It is only fitting that the denomination he gave his life to and the community he served for nearly two decades would join together to pay tribute to him.”
A native of Orangeburg, South Carolina, Murph is the son of Presiding Elder and Mrs. J. W. Murph. A graduate of Allen University, Columbia, S.C., and Oberlin Graduate School of Theology, Oberlin, Ohio, Murph actually began his pastoral ministry in Georgia. There he distinguished himself as a “master pastor,” retiring mortgages, uniting congregations and saving souls.
According to the history of St. Phillip A.M.E. Church in Savannah, Ga., for example, his greatest success during his eight-year pastorate “was in the ability to get the full cooperation of the membership” in paring Church debt and installing a new pipe organ.
Those God-given talents would prove invaluable when Murph was appointed pastor of Grant in 1950, where he served for 18 years. During his tenure, membership increased ten-fold and a new edifice was erected which stands to this day one of the most beautiful worship facilities in all of African Methodism.
A savvy statesman, Murph played a pivotal role in the decision of the General Services Administration (now the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development) to house the Social Security Office in Watts – on property owned by Grant no less. He was also instrumental in leading the Watts community during the tumultuous years following the 1965 Watts riots.
In 1968, at the 38th Session of the General Conference of the A.M.E. Church in Philadelphia, Murph was elected to the Episcopal Bench with the mandate to transform the nation’s oldest African-American denomination. He would go on to do just that, serving as presiding prelate of the Eighteenth, Seventeenth, Second, Tenth and Fifth districts and leaving in his wake a legacy of leadership, stewardship and Christian service.
In the years since his retirement in 1988, and in spite of recent illness, Murph has remained active in the Watts community and the A.M.E. Church. He is a crowd-favorite when he appears at worship events and conferences of the Church.
Murph and his wife Geraldine live in Los Angeles and have been married “forever,” says the Rev. Hester Lively, a family friend and associate minister of Grant.
Admission is $40 per person and includes a gourmet dinner. Cards, resolutions, testimonials, photos, gifts and well-wishes may be sent to Bishop Murph’s 95th Birthday Celebration, c/o Bro. Don Scott, Chairperson, Grant A.M.E. Church, 10435 South Central Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90002 or faxed to (323) 564-5027.
For more information, visit http://www.grantamechurch.org/ or call (323) 564-1151.
7. GREAT THINGS GOING ON AROUND THE AME CHURCH:
- The Fourth Episcopal District has a bound 2006 Fourth Episcopal Directory. The Directory has the mailing addresses and email addresses for those who have email addresses of active and retired Bishops, General and Connectional Officers. It even has an index with an alphabetical list of all of the persons listed in the Directory.
Kudos to the Fourth Episcopal District for a great publication. If you do not have one of the Directories, you should order one by emailing 4thadministrator@sbcglobal.net or by calling 773.373-6587.
- The Thirteenth Episcopal District has an electronic 13th Episcopal District Directory.
- The First Episcopal district has a District Newspaper, The First District Flame, which is full of great information about news events in the First Episcopal District.
8. 2005 ACCOUNTABILITY OF RESOURCES OF THE THIRTEENTH EPISCOPAL DISTRICT:
Bishop Vashti Murphy McKenzie, Presiding Bishop
Mr. Stan McKenzie, Supervisor of Missions
- $ 12,940 in grants awarded to churches and individuals in the 13th District through Believe, Inc.
- $ 11,608 in Benevolence ($3,470 directly to churches in the 13th District)
- $ 97,731.66 in Debts paid off:
> $80,731.56 paid to Second Presbyterian Church (Clayborn Temple, Memphis)
> $17,000 paid for demolition of ancillary building (Clayborn Temple, Memphis)
- Thirteen churches assisted by the Nehemiah Nation
- 173 Continuing Education Certificates earned through Payne Theological Seminary
- Five Clergy Institutes held at the seat of all Annual Conferences
- Three new churches planted
- 1,200 people at the Christian Education Leadership Congress in Louisville, Kentucky
- 13th District Living Well and Walking Ministry begun
- Annual Conference and District Prayer Ministry encouraged
- Living Well Annual Conference Institutes
- 1st Annual A.M.E. Works Day
- Two “Cross to Pentecost” Revivals held (Lexington, Kentucky and Nashville, Tennessee)
- The Cross to Pentecost Devotional Guide published and sold out
- Over 300 copies of The Anvil sold in the 13th District
- Bishop McKenzie visited 85% of churches in the District
- $43,000 raised for Katrina effort
- 11 tractor-trailers went south from the District with supplies for Katrina victims
9. ARTICLE IN THE CHARLESTON.NET FEATURES SISTER EVA BROWN, MOTHER-IN-LAW OF THE REVEREND KENNETH GOPHIN AND THE MOTHER OF DIANNA GOLPHIN:
In the past two years, Eva Brown, 68, has devoted more than 4,000 hours of her time to helping elderly people in McClellanville, South Carolina where she lives and grew up. On weekdays, she visits two elderly women to help with light housework - cooking, cleaning, and gardening.
For this, she recently received the President's Lifetime Volunteer Service Award. But, that's not what keeps her going. Her work helps the women remain independent and reduces their risk of having a fall.
The article was written by Michael Gartleand and may be seen in its entirety at
http://www.charleston.net/stories/default.aspx?newsID=59682§ion=localnews
Mrs. Eva Brown. She is a life long member of Greater Mount Zion AME Church in McClellanville, SC.
10. THE 2006 WEEK OF PRAYER FOR CHRISTIAN UNITY:
"Where two or three are gathered in my name, I am there among them" from Matt. 18:20 is the theme of the 2006 edition of the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity.
An ecumenical group in Ireland chose it.
Jointly prepared since 1968 by the World Council of Churches (WCC) and the Roman Catholic Church, the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity is traditionally celebrated from 18-25 January, although in the Southern hemisphere, other dates are sometimes chosen, for example, around Pentecost.
Setting out their reasons for choosing Matt. 18:20 as the central biblical text and theme for 2006, the Irish preparatory group explained that they "wished to draw attention to Jesus as the source of our unity" and to underline "the simplicity of two or three coming together in Christian mutual love as a vital means of building up relations between divided peoples and communities."
They were, moreover, "mindful that hope for the future, and peace and reconciliation in the present necessarily involved dealing with painful memories and hurtful grievances of the past."
It is "in that spirit," they say, "that all Christians who use these Week of Prayer resources are encouraged to come together in prayer and in mutual love to seek to understand each other amidst differences".
Week of Prayer resources include an introduction to the theme, a suggested ecumenical worship service that local churches are encouraged to adapt for their own particular liturgical, social and cultural contexts, biblical reflections and prayers for the "eight days," and additional prayers from, and an overview of, the ecumenical situation in the particular country that has prepared the material - in this case, Ireland.
The 2006 Week of Prayer materials are available on the WCC website at:
http://wcc-coe.org/wcc/what/faith/wop2006contents.html
11. NCC WELCOMES THE SENATE'S CAUTION ABOUT RENEWAL OF THE USA PATRIOT ACT:
New York, December 19, 2005 -- The National Council of Churches today praised the U.S. Senate for its caution when it declined to end a filibuster blocking the renewal of the USA Patriot Act.
"The Patriot Act was hastily enacted after 9/11 in an attempt to protect U.S. citizens from further terrorist violence," said Dr. Antonios Kireopoulos, associate general secretary of the NCC for International Affairs and Peace. "It's now time to ask ourselves what this law has meant with respect to our most basic freedoms."
Last month, the General Assembly of the NCC and Church World Service passed a resolution calling for "ever-vigilant" support of civil and religious liberties. The resolution expresses concern that the Patriot Act "has the potential for vastly eroding" those liberties.
"The provisions of the act are in seeming conflict with the Fourth Amendment prohibition against unreasonable searches and seizures," the resolution states. "These provisions include: delayed-notice search warrants to secretly investigate potential criminals; national security letters to secretly gather private and confidential information; relaxed restrictions on wiretapping; and extensive use of deportation and denial of immigrant applications based on unknowing associations."
Last week President Bush admitted authorizing wiretaps on U.S. citizens and said they were necessary to uncover terrorist plans. Even so, many of the 40 Democrats and four Republicans who voted against a motion to end the filibuster cited this unusual measure as one of their concerns.
In a series of public statements, Mr. Bush has defended the Patriot Act as a necessary weapon for the war on terrorism. "In the war on terror, we cannot afford to be without this law for a single moment," he said. The Patriot Act's 16 major provisions will expire Dec. 31 unless Congress extends them.
"We're not calling upon the government to abandon its responsibility to defend its citizens," said the Rev. Dr. Bob Edgar, general secretary of the NCC. "At the same time, there is no more eloquent rebuke to our terrorist enemies than to show we will never back away from the religious and civil liberties they seem to hate so much."
The full text of the General Assembly's "Resolution on the Threat to Civil and Religious Liberties in Post-9/11 America" can be found at http://www.ncccusa.org/news/051130GAResolutions.html#Liberties
The National Council of Churches USA is composed of 35 Protestant, Anglican, Orthodox, historic African American and peace communions representing 45 million Christians in 100,000 local congregations in the United States.
12. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
From: StanMcKenzie44@aol.com (Supervisor Stan McKenzie)
Mrs. Sarah Speights, the mother of Second Episcopal District Episcopal Supervisor Connie Speights Richardson and the mother-in-law of Bishop Adam Jefferson Richardson, Presiding Bishop, Second Episcopal District passed this morning.
Service arrangements are pending.
Contact Information:
Office:
Second Episcopal District AME Church
1134 11th Street, NWWashington, DC 20001
202) 842-3788 - Phone(202) 289-1942 – fax
Residence:
6209 Stoneham Lane
McLean, VA 22101
703-442-0261 (Phone)
Tallahassee, Florida Address
3715 Forsythe Way
Tallahassee, FL 32309
(850) 893-1939 (Phone)
(850) 893-1959 (Fax)
13. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
From: gedmaur@cwbda.bm
At about 3:30 this morning, after a brief illness, God called Sister Augusta Henrietta Douglas, mother of the Reverend V. A. Deyone Douglas, Pastor of St. Luke AME Church and the Rev. C. Maureen Clemendor, Local Elder of St. Philip AME Church in Bermuda, to her heavenly reward.
Three other daughters and a son also survive Mother Douglas, as she was affectionately known. A home going service is being planned and more information will be forthcoming. We ask that you keep the family in our prayers.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Matilda Smith Williams Senior’s Residence of Agape House.
Messages of condolence may be forwarded to:
Rev. V. A. Deyone Douglas
St. Luke A.M.E. Church
P.O. Box DD133
St. David’s DDBX
Tel: (441) 297-1564
Fax (441) 297-2457
dvadboston@yahoo.com
Rev. C. Maureen Clemendor
St. Philip A.M.E. Church
P. O. Box HS14
Smith’s HSBX
Tel: (441) 293-0882
Fax: (441) 293-7936
Email: stphilipame@tbinet.bm or gedmaur@cwbda.bm
14. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
From: hilldrkenneth@comcast.net
Mrs. Hannah Heard the mother of Mrs. Sarah Twiggs (immediate past Conference Branch WMS President, East Tennessee Conference and wife of The Reverend Lawrence O. Twiggs.
Service Arrangements:
(1st Service)
Tuesday, Dec 20, 2005
Tabernacle Baptist Church
Columbus, Ohio
Family hour: 6: 00 PM
Funeral 6:30 PM.
(2nd Service)
Thursday Dec 22, 2005
11:00 AM
Mt. Olive Baptist Church
Anniston, Alabama
Condolences may be sent to:
Mrs. Sarah Twiggs and Family
6420 Ridge Lake Road
Hixon, TN 37343
423-842-6346 (Phone)
From Mamie Hamler & Presiding Elder Kenneth H. Hill
Chattanooga District - East Tennessee Conference
Bishop Vashti M. McKenzie, Presiding Prelate 13th Episcopal District
15. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
From: PastorGolphin@aol.com
Mrs. Mellodey Hoskins, daughter of Reverend MacArthur Pendleton and Dr. Kathy Pendleton (Bethel AME Church - Campbellsville, KY) passed in Chicago, IL on December 17, 2005.
Services are entrusted to:
Leek and Sons Funeral Home
304 East Williams
Danville, Illinois 61832
Condolences may be sent to:
Reverend MacArthur Pendleton and Dr. Kathy Pendleton
Bethel AME Church
240 Lone Valley Rd
Campbellsville, KY 42718
From: Rev. Kenneth Golphin
16. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
The passing of Mrs. Dorothy Woods Hill of Rutherford, TN, on Saturday, December 17, 2005. Mrs. Hill is the mother of Rev. Willie V. Woods, Pastor of New Allen A.M.E. Church, Memphis, TN and the mother-in-law of Mrs. Mondella Woods, President of the 13th Episcopal District M-SWAWO. Service arrangements are incomplete at this time.
Condolences may be sent to:
Rev. Willie V. Woods and Family
9178 Afton Grove
Cordova, TN 38018
(901) 756-6171 (Phone)
Email Condolences: Mbswoods@aol.com
17. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
Mrs. Ruth D. Barber of Pasadena, CA passed on last Friday, December 16, 2005. Mrs. Ruth Barber is the mother of the Reverend Nolan Watson, pastor of Bethel A.M.E. Church -Little Rock, AR, of the 12th Episcopal District, where Rev. Richard A. Chappelle is Bishop
Service Arrangements:
Friday, December 23, 2005
1:00 AM
Calvery C.M.E. Church
135 Glorieta Street
Pasadena, CA
Condolences may be sent to:
Reverend Nolan Watson and Family
Bethel AME Church815 West 15th Street Little Rock , AR 72202 501-374-2891 (Phone)
Email Condolences:nwatson7@alltel.net
18. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT ANNOUNCEMENTS PROVIDED BY:
Bishop Carolyn Tyler Guidry, Chair
Commission on Social Action Clergy Family Information Center
Mrs. Ora L. Easley - Administrator Email: Amespouses1@aol.com
(Nashville, Tennessee Contact) Phone: (615) 837-9736 Fax: (615) 833-3781
(Memphis, Tennessee Contact) (901) 578-4554 (Phone & Fax)
Please remember these families in your prayers.
19. CONDOLENCES TO THE BEREAVED FROM THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER:
The Chair of the Commission on Publications, the Right Reverend Gregory G. M. Ingram; the Publisher, the Reverend Dr. Johnny Barbour and the Editor of the Christian Recorder, the Reverend Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III offer our condolences and prayers to those who have lost loved ones. We pray that the peace of Christ will be with you during this time of your bereavement.
12/20/2005
Breaking News: Supervisor Connie Richardson Mother Passed Today
The Christian Recorder received word today of the passing of Supervisor Connie Richardson Mother Today. More information will be disseminated when the details are received from the Commission on Social Action Clergy Family Information Center and AME Spouses (Sister Ora Easley).
12/19/2005
THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER ONLINE ENGLISH EDITION (12/19/05)
Bishop Gregory G. M. Ingram - Chair, Commission on Publications
The Reverend Dr. Johnny Barbour, Jr., Publisher
The Reverend Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III, Editor
1. A BLESSED ADVENT AND A MERRY CHRISTMAS:
Bishop Gregory G. M. Ingram, Chair, Commission on Publications,
The Reverend Dr. Johnny Barbour, Jr., Publisher, and
The Reverend Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III, Editor of The Christian Recorder
Wishes all of you a Blessed Advent and a Merry Christmas.
2. THE EDITOR’S WISH FOR THE NEW YEAR:
The New Year is fast approaching, 2005 is almost history. Each year about this time, many of us prepare our list of resolutions for the New Year. Like many of you, I have my list of New Year’s resolutions. I don not want to share those, but I want to share my “wish list” for the African Methodist Episcopal Church.
I invite you to share your “wish list” for the AME Church. Send it to chsydnor@bellsouth.net with the subject line containing to the words, “Wish List for the AME Church.”
The Editor’s “Wish List”
- That our Church (local and Connectional) will be a “thermostat” rather than a “thermometer.” A thermostat regulates the temperature; a thermometer tells us what the “thermostat” regulated. The Church should be a “thermostat” that controls the spiritual and moral environment and not be a “thermometer” that is controlled by the worldly environment.
- That more pastors would let the laity have more responsibilities in the church. When pastors learn to delegate and share responsibilities, their ministry will be more enjoyable and more effective.
Sister Jeanette Johns, author of the book about Bishop D. Ward Nichols entitled, “The Upward Journey: A Centenarian's Chronicle” observes,
“Pastors can work themselves right into the ground and that’s no fun for them or their families; and, I believe that God wouldn't like that. Church can be as much or as little work as the pastor wants it to be. Apparently, many pastors want their ministry to be a lot of work because many of them work night and day… And, many spouses work right along with spouse pastors. So often, in the long haul, that does not pay. Sensibility pays off. Some pastors don't seem to be content unless they are working hard and ‘leading the charge.’”
- That more pastors would slow-down and be more calm in worship and administration and stop “running around” trying to do everything. Train the people and let them do what they were trained to do.
- That pastors would stop talking and carry on conversations with other ministers during worship services. Whispering, laughing, and gesturing in the pulpit during worship is distracting and does not set a good example for worship. The Reverend Walter W. Reid recently retired and former pastor of Trinity AME in Lansing, Michigan was the model example, for me, of a minister who focused upon his sermon when he went into the pulpit.
- That during the Sacrament of Holy Communion at the opening worship service at the Annual Conference, pastors would maintain dignity and worship decorum during Holy Communion and especially after, they have been communed. Pastors can be seen taking off their robes and walking in and out of the sanctuary before the end of the Communion Service.
- That church members would love and affirm their pastors and the first family.
- That mean-spiritedness would be replaced by brotherly and sisterly love; and agape love.
- That every pastor would remember the promise he or she made to the question in the Ordination Service, “Will you reverently obey your chief ministers to whom is committed the charge and government over you, following with a glad mind and will their godly admonitions, submitting yourselves to their godly judgment?” Our response was, “I will do so, the Lord being my helper.”
- That our bishops will remember the part in their Consecration liturgy where they were reminded that they should not be hasty in laying on hands and admitting any person to government in the church of Christ ...” We should never forget that the ministry is the “highest calling.”
- That worship services be more spiritual and more biblically based and that the sermon, and not the music be the center of the worship experience.
- That pastors understand that fellow ministers and members of the congregation respond differently to the Word and the tempo of the worship service. Not everyone has to shout and raise his or her hands; worship is not a football game. We are emotional at a football game or other athletic event because we are excited, trying to influence, and hoping for a positive outcome. In the game of Eternal Life, if we are followers of Christ, we know the outcome, that we have salvation in Christ, because He died for our sins and rose up from the grave. Our outcome is assured. We are not nearly as emotional when we look at a rerun of a football or basketball game as when we are looking at the live broadcast. So, not everybody has to “shout” in worship. Some folks are expressive and others are more reserved. One is not better than the other is.
- That more AME students would support our AME institutions of higher education, especially Wilberforce University, Payne, and Turner Theological Seminaries.
- That we do not write off Morris Brown College and the other AME institutions. They have a lot to offer. Wilberforce University was not accredited when I applied and enrolled there in 1959.
- That the Church would affirm the hard-working clergy who pastor small congregations, who might only have one or two accessions, or maybe no accessions and no baptisms. The year might have been a tough one and the “ground might not have been fertile.”
- That all of us might remember hardworking, relatively small and medium-size congregations support the Connectional Church.
- That mega-churches would adopt small congregations and let some of the so-called, “small-time” preachers preach in their mega pulpits.
- That some of our mega-church pastors would be invited to share their success stories at some of our Connectional meetings and that there would be a time for some serious questions and answers. The mega-pastors have a wealth of information that they can share about church growth.
- That there is some time allotted at some of our Connectional Meetings for small and rural church issues be addressed.
- That the Church would affirm, strategize and be intentional about bi-vocational ministry.
- That the Church would encourage, strategize and be intentional about encouraging pastors to do fulltime ministry. If we do not, almost all of our churches will be bi-vocational or part-time.
- That we find a way to make our annual conferences less stressful and more relaxing. Every non-church meeting I attend asks for the participants’ evaluation and provides evaluation forms for participants’ feedback. It might be helpful to ask those who attend our meetings and conferences what they think would make for a better meeting. It might not be a bad idea for pastors to ask their members for evaluation and feedback. That is a new paradigm! It takes strength and self-confidence to ask for, and not be threatened by honest feedback. (See the next article related to subscribers not receiving the print edition of The Christian Recorder in a timely manner).
- That our pastors and leaders will read more. For instance, the Reverend Dr. William Whatley has written a wonderful little book entitled,” Less than Tipping” that gives twenty-five reasons to tithe. (Call 973.622-1344, Ext. 111)
- That our pastors and their family members will receive medical checkups.
- That our pastor families will engage the services of a financial planner early in their ministry. For those in ministry who have not engages a financial planner, it is not too late. Do it.
- That all of our pastors and family members take vacations and encourage each other to take vacations.
- That all members of the clergy from bishops to bishops and pastors to pastors be friends and collegial to one another; that we socialize and have fun with each other. There is nothing sinful about clergy families having fun and socializing with one another.
- That all clergy and laity will subscribe to The Christian Recorder and to all of our other periodicals.
3. KUDOS ABOUT THE SPECIAL EDITION OF THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER AND A RESPONSE TO THOSE WHO HAVE QUESTIONS ABOUT NOT RECEIVING THEIR PRINT EDITIONS OF THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER IN A TIMELY MANNER:
The Editor of The Christian Recorder appreciates feedback.
We have received a number of compliments about the caliber of The Christian Recorder and especially about the Special Edition of The Christian Recorder. The Publisher and the staff at the Publishing House did a superb job in getting that issue published and distributed.
We have also received a number of questions and some complaints from subscribers who have not received the print editions of their newspapers in a timely fashion. That has been a problem and it is a problem that will be corrected. Several issues ago, I explained that Second Class mailings as, The Christian Recorder goes to distribution points all around the country and that Second Class mailings do not receive the same priority as First Class mail. I live in Nashville and most likely, The Christian Recorder that comes to my home, does not come from the Post Office in Nashville where the Publisher delivered the newspapers. My newspaper might have come from the distribution point in New Orleans, which is why I might get a call from someone in Texas complimenting me on an article in The Christian Recorder that I had not yet received. I very often receive calls from people about issues that I had not received. That is a problem.
The paper has been late, and for that, I apologize. We are in the process of catching-up the issues and subscribers will receive all of the issues that they have paid for. We ask for your patience. Not to make excuses, but I need to say that the AME Publishing House is not as large as the other denominational publishing houses. We do not have the staff or the financial resources. Our subscription base is improving and for that, we say thank you, but historically, we have been operating in the “red.” The Publisher, Dr. Johnny Barbour is optimistic that we are turning things around, and for that, we are thankful.
The Chair of the Publication Commission, the Rt. Reverend Gregory G. M. Ingram and the Bishops of the Church directed the Editor to put together a Special Katrina Issue of the Christian Recorder and for the Publisher to publish enough copies for every AME family in America and abroad. Dr. Johnny Barbour and his staff published 66,000 copies of the Special Edition and we hope that every AME family has received their copy of the Special Edition. That was a Herculean task and the Publisher had to use resources that had not been allocated, which in the government is called an “unfinanced requirement.” When 66,000 copies are processed, something has to give. A sixty-six thousand copies run of The Christian Recorder is not “business as usual.” Added to that, the Sunday School literature had to be published, as well as the other periodicals, and the contract printing jobs that were in the queue.
Please know that all of us, and especially the Publisher, are doing our best with the resources that we have.
4. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
From: FifthDistPrayer@aol.com
The passing of Rev. Granville Hayes, Retired, former pastor of Grant Chapel A.M.E. Church, Moberly, MO and Lovell Chapel A.M.E. Church, Huntsville, Missouri, passed on December 12, 2005.
Service Arrangements Held
Family visitation:
Friday, December 16, 2005
6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Warren Funeral Chapel
12 E. Ash Street
Columbia, MO 65203
573-443-3343 (Phone)
573-874-1521 (Fax)
Funeral Service:
Saturday, December 17, 2005
1:00 PM
St. Paul AME Church
501 Park Street
Columbia, MO 65201
5. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
From: PastorGolphin@aol.com
The passing of the daughter of The Reverend MacArthur and Dr. Kathy Pendleton (Bethel AME Church - Campbellsville, Kentucky). She was killed in Chicago on yesterday morning, December 17, 2005.
Arrangements are pending.
Condolences may be sent to:
Bethel AME Church
240 Lone Valley Rd
Campbellsville KY 42718
6. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT ANNOUNCEMENTS PROVIDED BY:
Bishop Carolyn Tyler Guidry, Chair
Commission on Social Action Clergy Family Information Center
Mrs. Ora L. Easley - Administrator Email: Amespouses1@aol.com
(Nashville, Tennessee Contact) Phone: (615) 837-9736 Fax: (615) 833-3781
(Memphis, Tennessee Contact) (901) 578-4554 (Phone & Fax)
Please remember these families in your prayers.
7. CONDOLENCES TO THE BEREAVED FROM THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER:
The Chair of the Commission on Publications, the Right Reverend Gregory G. M. Ingram; the Publisher, the Reverend Dr. Johnny Barbour and the Editor of the Christian Recorder, the Reverend Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III offer our condolences and prayers to those who have lost loved ones. We pray that the peace of Christ will be with you during this time of your bereavement.
The Reverend Dr. Johnny Barbour, Jr., Publisher
The Reverend Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III, Editor
1. A BLESSED ADVENT AND A MERRY CHRISTMAS:
Bishop Gregory G. M. Ingram, Chair, Commission on Publications,
The Reverend Dr. Johnny Barbour, Jr., Publisher, and
The Reverend Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III, Editor of The Christian Recorder
Wishes all of you a Blessed Advent and a Merry Christmas.
2. THE EDITOR’S WISH FOR THE NEW YEAR:
The New Year is fast approaching, 2005 is almost history. Each year about this time, many of us prepare our list of resolutions for the New Year. Like many of you, I have my list of New Year’s resolutions. I don not want to share those, but I want to share my “wish list” for the African Methodist Episcopal Church.
I invite you to share your “wish list” for the AME Church. Send it to chsydnor@bellsouth.net with the subject line containing to the words, “Wish List for the AME Church.”
The Editor’s “Wish List”
- That our Church (local and Connectional) will be a “thermostat” rather than a “thermometer.” A thermostat regulates the temperature; a thermometer tells us what the “thermostat” regulated. The Church should be a “thermostat” that controls the spiritual and moral environment and not be a “thermometer” that is controlled by the worldly environment.
- That more pastors would let the laity have more responsibilities in the church. When pastors learn to delegate and share responsibilities, their ministry will be more enjoyable and more effective.
Sister Jeanette Johns, author of the book about Bishop D. Ward Nichols entitled, “The Upward Journey: A Centenarian's Chronicle” observes,
“Pastors can work themselves right into the ground and that’s no fun for them or their families; and, I believe that God wouldn't like that. Church can be as much or as little work as the pastor wants it to be. Apparently, many pastors want their ministry to be a lot of work because many of them work night and day… And, many spouses work right along with spouse pastors. So often, in the long haul, that does not pay. Sensibility pays off. Some pastors don't seem to be content unless they are working hard and ‘leading the charge.’”
- That more pastors would slow-down and be more calm in worship and administration and stop “running around” trying to do everything. Train the people and let them do what they were trained to do.
- That pastors would stop talking and carry on conversations with other ministers during worship services. Whispering, laughing, and gesturing in the pulpit during worship is distracting and does not set a good example for worship. The Reverend Walter W. Reid recently retired and former pastor of Trinity AME in Lansing, Michigan was the model example, for me, of a minister who focused upon his sermon when he went into the pulpit.
- That during the Sacrament of Holy Communion at the opening worship service at the Annual Conference, pastors would maintain dignity and worship decorum during Holy Communion and especially after, they have been communed. Pastors can be seen taking off their robes and walking in and out of the sanctuary before the end of the Communion Service.
- That church members would love and affirm their pastors and the first family.
- That mean-spiritedness would be replaced by brotherly and sisterly love; and agape love.
- That every pastor would remember the promise he or she made to the question in the Ordination Service, “Will you reverently obey your chief ministers to whom is committed the charge and government over you, following with a glad mind and will their godly admonitions, submitting yourselves to their godly judgment?” Our response was, “I will do so, the Lord being my helper.”
- That our bishops will remember the part in their Consecration liturgy where they were reminded that they should not be hasty in laying on hands and admitting any person to government in the church of Christ ...” We should never forget that the ministry is the “highest calling.”
- That worship services be more spiritual and more biblically based and that the sermon, and not the music be the center of the worship experience.
- That pastors understand that fellow ministers and members of the congregation respond differently to the Word and the tempo of the worship service. Not everyone has to shout and raise his or her hands; worship is not a football game. We are emotional at a football game or other athletic event because we are excited, trying to influence, and hoping for a positive outcome. In the game of Eternal Life, if we are followers of Christ, we know the outcome, that we have salvation in Christ, because He died for our sins and rose up from the grave. Our outcome is assured. We are not nearly as emotional when we look at a rerun of a football or basketball game as when we are looking at the live broadcast. So, not everybody has to “shout” in worship. Some folks are expressive and others are more reserved. One is not better than the other is.
- That more AME students would support our AME institutions of higher education, especially Wilberforce University, Payne, and Turner Theological Seminaries.
- That we do not write off Morris Brown College and the other AME institutions. They have a lot to offer. Wilberforce University was not accredited when I applied and enrolled there in 1959.
- That the Church would affirm the hard-working clergy who pastor small congregations, who might only have one or two accessions, or maybe no accessions and no baptisms. The year might have been a tough one and the “ground might not have been fertile.”
- That all of us might remember hardworking, relatively small and medium-size congregations support the Connectional Church.
- That mega-churches would adopt small congregations and let some of the so-called, “small-time” preachers preach in their mega pulpits.
- That some of our mega-church pastors would be invited to share their success stories at some of our Connectional meetings and that there would be a time for some serious questions and answers. The mega-pastors have a wealth of information that they can share about church growth.
- That there is some time allotted at some of our Connectional Meetings for small and rural church issues be addressed.
- That the Church would affirm, strategize and be intentional about bi-vocational ministry.
- That the Church would encourage, strategize and be intentional about encouraging pastors to do fulltime ministry. If we do not, almost all of our churches will be bi-vocational or part-time.
- That we find a way to make our annual conferences less stressful and more relaxing. Every non-church meeting I attend asks for the participants’ evaluation and provides evaluation forms for participants’ feedback. It might be helpful to ask those who attend our meetings and conferences what they think would make for a better meeting. It might not be a bad idea for pastors to ask their members for evaluation and feedback. That is a new paradigm! It takes strength and self-confidence to ask for, and not be threatened by honest feedback. (See the next article related to subscribers not receiving the print edition of The Christian Recorder in a timely manner).
- That our pastors and leaders will read more. For instance, the Reverend Dr. William Whatley has written a wonderful little book entitled,” Less than Tipping” that gives twenty-five reasons to tithe. (Call 973.622-1344, Ext. 111)
- That our pastors and their family members will receive medical checkups.
- That our pastor families will engage the services of a financial planner early in their ministry. For those in ministry who have not engages a financial planner, it is not too late. Do it.
- That all of our pastors and family members take vacations and encourage each other to take vacations.
- That all members of the clergy from bishops to bishops and pastors to pastors be friends and collegial to one another; that we socialize and have fun with each other. There is nothing sinful about clergy families having fun and socializing with one another.
- That all clergy and laity will subscribe to The Christian Recorder and to all of our other periodicals.
3. KUDOS ABOUT THE SPECIAL EDITION OF THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER AND A RESPONSE TO THOSE WHO HAVE QUESTIONS ABOUT NOT RECEIVING THEIR PRINT EDITIONS OF THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER IN A TIMELY MANNER:
The Editor of The Christian Recorder appreciates feedback.
We have received a number of compliments about the caliber of The Christian Recorder and especially about the Special Edition of The Christian Recorder. The Publisher and the staff at the Publishing House did a superb job in getting that issue published and distributed.
We have also received a number of questions and some complaints from subscribers who have not received the print editions of their newspapers in a timely fashion. That has been a problem and it is a problem that will be corrected. Several issues ago, I explained that Second Class mailings as, The Christian Recorder goes to distribution points all around the country and that Second Class mailings do not receive the same priority as First Class mail. I live in Nashville and most likely, The Christian Recorder that comes to my home, does not come from the Post Office in Nashville where the Publisher delivered the newspapers. My newspaper might have come from the distribution point in New Orleans, which is why I might get a call from someone in Texas complimenting me on an article in The Christian Recorder that I had not yet received. I very often receive calls from people about issues that I had not received. That is a problem.
The paper has been late, and for that, I apologize. We are in the process of catching-up the issues and subscribers will receive all of the issues that they have paid for. We ask for your patience. Not to make excuses, but I need to say that the AME Publishing House is not as large as the other denominational publishing houses. We do not have the staff or the financial resources. Our subscription base is improving and for that, we say thank you, but historically, we have been operating in the “red.” The Publisher, Dr. Johnny Barbour is optimistic that we are turning things around, and for that, we are thankful.
The Chair of the Publication Commission, the Rt. Reverend Gregory G. M. Ingram and the Bishops of the Church directed the Editor to put together a Special Katrina Issue of the Christian Recorder and for the Publisher to publish enough copies for every AME family in America and abroad. Dr. Johnny Barbour and his staff published 66,000 copies of the Special Edition and we hope that every AME family has received their copy of the Special Edition. That was a Herculean task and the Publisher had to use resources that had not been allocated, which in the government is called an “unfinanced requirement.” When 66,000 copies are processed, something has to give. A sixty-six thousand copies run of The Christian Recorder is not “business as usual.” Added to that, the Sunday School literature had to be published, as well as the other periodicals, and the contract printing jobs that were in the queue.
Please know that all of us, and especially the Publisher, are doing our best with the resources that we have.
4. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
From: FifthDistPrayer@aol.com
The passing of Rev. Granville Hayes, Retired, former pastor of Grant Chapel A.M.E. Church, Moberly, MO and Lovell Chapel A.M.E. Church, Huntsville, Missouri, passed on December 12, 2005.
Service Arrangements Held
Family visitation:
Friday, December 16, 2005
6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Warren Funeral Chapel
12 E. Ash Street
Columbia, MO 65203
573-443-3343 (Phone)
573-874-1521 (Fax)
Funeral Service:
Saturday, December 17, 2005
1:00 PM
St. Paul AME Church
501 Park Street
Columbia, MO 65201
5. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
From: PastorGolphin@aol.com
The passing of the daughter of The Reverend MacArthur and Dr. Kathy Pendleton (Bethel AME Church - Campbellsville, Kentucky). She was killed in Chicago on yesterday morning, December 17, 2005.
Arrangements are pending.
Condolences may be sent to:
Bethel AME Church
240 Lone Valley Rd
Campbellsville KY 42718
6. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT ANNOUNCEMENTS PROVIDED BY:
Bishop Carolyn Tyler Guidry, Chair
Commission on Social Action Clergy Family Information Center
Mrs. Ora L. Easley - Administrator Email: Amespouses1@aol.com
(Nashville, Tennessee Contact) Phone: (615) 837-9736 Fax: (615) 833-3781
(Memphis, Tennessee Contact) (901) 578-4554 (Phone & Fax)
Please remember these families in your prayers.
7. CONDOLENCES TO THE BEREAVED FROM THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER:
The Chair of the Commission on Publications, the Right Reverend Gregory G. M. Ingram; the Publisher, the Reverend Dr. Johnny Barbour and the Editor of the Christian Recorder, the Reverend Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III offer our condolences and prayers to those who have lost loved ones. We pray that the peace of Christ will be with you during this time of your bereavement.
12/17/2005
THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER ONLINE ENGLISH EDITION (12/17/05)
Bishop Gregory G. M. Ingram - Chair, Commission on Publications
The Reverend Dr. Johnny Barbour, Jr., Publisher
The Reverend Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III, Editor
1. THE MEMPHIS FUNERAL FOR HELAINE ALEECE HENNING WAS A CELEBRATION:
The loss of a child has to be one of the most difficult experiences in life. We tend to think that we will be faced with the task of burying our parents and might even be faced with the task of burying one of our siblings, but the unsettling task of burying one of our children is a thought that most of us do not want to think about or imagine.
And, that was the task that Bishop C. Garnett Henning and Mother Ernestine Henning were faced with – burying their oldest child, Helaine Aleece Henning. Death never comes at a convenient time and we are almost never prepared for it, and there is never a convenient time for the death of one’s child.
The mood was somber as the family filed into the St. Andrews AME Church located at 867 South Parkway in Memphis. The parents among the congregation had to feel a degree of painful empathy with the Henning family as they paid their last respects to their oldest child; and this was their second funeral for one of their children. They lost a son to an automobile accident, so this funeral for their oldest daughter, deeply affected all of us. The pain was evident in the silence, the tears, the painful expressions on the faces of the congregants, as the organist played the prelude as the family entered the sanctuary and took their seats.
The somberness ended quickly with the words of scripture lifted up by the liturgist, the Rt. Reverend Vashti Murphy McKenzie, Presiding Prelate of the 13th Episcopal District. The celebration of the life of Helaine Aleece Henning began. The Call to Worship and the congregational singing of the hymn, “Great is Thy Faithfulness” lifted the spirits of family and the congregation. The invocation by the Rt. Reverend William Phillips DeVeaux, Presiding Prelate of the 6th Episcopal District, was a prayer of empathy and comfort. The scripture lessons and the choral selections by the 8th Episcopal District Choir added significantly to the celebration. Presiding Elder Michelle Goodloe, the Reverend Douglas Taylor and the Reverend Catherine Amedee led in the reading of the scriptures. The Reverend Jacob Hilton extended the call to worship.
Words of comfort were extended to the family by Mrs. Jamesina Evans, on behalf of the Connectional Women’s missionary Society; the Reverend Thomas Brown on behalf of the pastors of the 8th Episcopal District, and Presiding Elder Otis Lewis on behalf of the 8th Episcopal District. Dr. Clement Fugh, General Secretary, AME Church and Dr. Richard Lewis, Treasurer of the AME Church extended words of comfort on behalf of the Council of General Officers. The Rt. Reverend Robert V. Webster, Presiding Prelate of the 3rd Episcopal District, the Rt. Reverend Richard Allen Chappelle, Presiding Prelate of the 12th Episcopal District, and the Rt. Rev. Preston W. Williams, Presiding Prelate of the 7th Episcopal District gave words of comfort on behalf of the African Methodist Episcopal Church and the Council of Bishops. Their words and expression of faith and hope were comforting to the family. The presence of retired Bishop, the Rt. Reverend Frederick H. Talbot was comforting to the family.
The Henning and Lee families participated in worship and their participation would have been a great homegoing without anyone else’s participation. What a talented family! One of the cousins, Sister Pamela Bowman offered words of encouragement and sang a solo. Cousins Cassandra Denise Swift, Kristen Henning, gave words of comfort. A defining moment in the service was the words given by Mother Ernestine Lee Henning, a mother’s tribute to her daughter. Helaine’s uncles, Ekpe Abioto, flutist and Mark Lee, guitarist could have, by themselves, provided all of the music for the service. Both are accomplished musicians. Brother Abioto shared several African proverbs, one of which says, “The stronger we are, the stronger I am” in terms of working together and being faithful family members. He also shared the African proverb, “The ruin of a nation begins in the home.” The Holy Spirit-filled singing of Sister Ernestine Dillard lifted us off our seats! She sang, the musicians played and the congregation praised God.
The preacher, Presiding Elder Floyd (Preach) Alexander, took the congregation to an even higher level of worship with his wonderful sermon and words of comfort. His message was timely and relevant. The family appeared comforted and the burden of somberness felt at the beginning of the service was lifted. Helaine Aleece Henning had been eulogized and the homegoing was almost complete.
Bishop C. Garnett Henning, the Presiding Prelate of the 8th Episcopal District, the father, extended the expression of appreciation and he did so with dignity and strength. As the Reverend Thomas Brown said earlier in the service, “Bishop you have presided at many funerals and you have told the bereaved that God would comfort them, and now we come to tell you that God will comfort you and your family in your time of bereavement.” Bishop Henning’s comments were delivered as a father who had been comforted. He thanked those who had participated in the California service, especially Bishop John Bryant, the Presiding Prelate of the 5th Episcopal District, the Reverend Sylvester Laudermill, pastor of Ward AME Church and the Ward AME Church family,
The recessional was spirited with congregants greeting the Henning and Lee families and each other as only AMEs can. The Homegoing was a “good old fashion” AME meeting. Except for the hearse in front of St. Andrews AME Church, anyone passing by after the funeral would have thought that we were attending an annual conference. That was the spirit of Helaine’s homegoing.
St. Andrews AME Church was the ultimate host for the “event.” The Reverend Dr. Kenneth Robinson is the pastor. His wife, the Reverend Marilynn Robinson is co-pastor.
2. CHURCH PLANTING IS A VIABLE WAY FOR THE AME CHURCH TO BE INVIGORATED:
Reverend Bobete Hampton
I am convinced that church 'plants' are the only way that our AMEC is going to grow. I thank God that Bishop Cousin gave me the opportunity to build God's church on His Word. In 2002, Bishop Cousin gave three appointments for 'New Work' in the Michigan Conference. Today, Fresh Fire AMEC is the only 'New Work' from the plants in 2002. In 2003, the other two plants were merged with smaller established churches.
Of course, Bishop gave out two additional appointments for New Work in 2003. I believe that if the Connectional Church would come up with a viable plan to encourage seminarians to 'plant churches' and the Connection and District, support the new work, the seminarians would not have to "wait for someone to die" or be transferred before stepping into a pulpit.
They would not have to wait for an appointment, and our church would begin to grow.
As large as our church is, (35 adults and 35 youth and children), FAITH has enabled us to adopt 8 displaced individuals from New Orleans, clothe them, feed them, secure transportation, housing and jobs by collaborating with agencies in the community. Fresh Fire is God working in His New Testament Church in Action!
Please read the attached article. Fresh Fire is a historical plant in the City of Kalamazoo, MI. It is the first AMEC plant since 1855. That was 147 years ago! The first church was Allen Chapel, which is the church in which I was raised. There had never been a female pastor pastoring in Kalamazoo, until I planted Fresh Fire 2002. I welcome the opportunity to share with you the growth and development of our Urban Ministry. I may be reached at 269-629-8087 (H), 269-381-8050 (C) or 269-352-5785 (Cell). Have a Blessed Holiday Season. The web site is www.robertmweir.com/encorepages/encorehampton.
Pastor Bobette Hampton
3. TYLER DISTRICT LAY ORGANIZATION NIGHT OF STAR POWER:
By: Delanda S. Johnson
Guest Writer
The Tenacious Tyler District Lay Organization of the African Methodist Episcopal Church shined with the stars on Saturday, December 3, 2005, at their First Annual Lay Banquet. The banquet held at the Ramada Inn Conference Center in Tyler, Texas hosted approximately 200 people; who gathered to hear the speaker for the evening well known Actor, Singer, Composer, Producer, and Minister Rev. Dr. Clifton Davis.
You will probably best remember him as Rev. Rueben Gregory on the popular NBC television series, “AMEN.” His other television credits include starring in “The Melba Moore & Clifton Davis Show” and “That’s My Mama.”
Dr. Davis holds a BA in Theology, a Master of Divinity degree, a Doctor of Ministry degree, and a Doctor of Letters degree. He is listed in “Who’s Who In America” and has been recognized by such organizations as the SCLC, UNCF, World Vision, and the NAACP. He served as co-founder, co-Pastor of Welcome Christian Center of Huntington Beach, California, and licensed as an ordained minister by St. Luke Baptist Church, New York, New York.
On Christian television, Davis hosts C. A. T. S. (Christian Artist Talent Search) on INSP television; the host of “Backstage Pass” and ministers for “Praise the Lord” on the Trinity Broadcasting Network.
In an exclusive interview before the banquet, Davis expressed his delight in begin back in Texas where you have wide-open spaces and warm friendly face.
Davis noted five years ago, he was the keynote speaker for the Athens-Henderson County Branch NAACP, but this was his first time speaking for the Tyler District Lay Organization of the A. M. E. Church.
As a minister/speaker, Davis travels three weeks out of every month throughout the country. Davis stated that traveling throughout the country he does not have the time for a full-time congregation (church), but loves how the Lord uses him when speaking to different audiences around the world.
When asked about his calling to the ministry, Davis stated, “I’m amazed that the Lord called him at all. Each time that I go forth to speak, I’m humble at the responsibility that the Lord has placed on me and I do my best to meet that responsibility.”
Mrs. Gloria Glaspie, Allen Chapel AME Church, Athens; stated, “We are here to magnify and glorify the name of Jesus. We come together in this Christmas season to worship, love, and bring comforted to those effected by the hurricanes and peace to those who have love ones in Iraq. However, tonight we are here to help the Lay Organization that stands for helping, serving, giving, and education. Let us leave here tonight as AME’s with the goal of fulfilling our destiny and our mission, which is to serve.”
The evening moved with the spiritual and golden voices of Mrs. Linda Cook singing, “Heavenly Choir” and Ms. Leatrice Gray singing “Miracles and Blessings.”
With two emotional singers, the spirit of the Lord was ready to move as Rev. Dr. Clifton Davis began to speak on “Called to Make a Difference.”
Rev. Dr. Davis expressed to the congregation that the difference we make should make a difference in each other lives. “We see a world not as a glorious oyster, but we see a creation that is crying out for Christ return. Our eyes see things differently from the world, economically and spiritually. We are of God.”
Davis electrified the congregation by stating that GOD will make a way out of no way, that in times of trouble and peace, God is there.
“I have hope when hope is gone. I have hope when the world has lost all hope. I have hope in Jesus Christ,” said Davis.
Davis stated, “that if we are different, we should be able to make a difference in someone else lives. Others should see the difference that Jesus has make in you. Your power, your purpose, and your will is no longer your own. You will have a different walk, a different talk, your light will shine in Jesus Christ; you have made a difference.”
4. NCC CONDEMNS AHMADINEJAD'S HOLOCAUST STATEMENT:
December 16, 2005, New York -- In unusually strong language, the National Council of Churches USA has condemned Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad's call for the obliteration of Israel and his claim that the Holocaust was "a myth."
"It is no accident that among the first protests of the Iranian president's statement were those of German leaders, whose parents were witnesses of the horrible reality of the Holocaust," said the Rev. Dr. Bob Edgar, General Secretary of the NCC. "Anti-Semitism's most vociferous manifestation is the 'Big Lie' now coming from Tehran."
Edgar also reaffirmed the NCC's support for the security of the State of Israel, alongside a viable Palestinian State.
Ahmadinejad's remarks were made during a convention entitled, "A World Without Zionists." He said the state of Israel should be wiped off the map. He went on to say, that Western leaders "have invented a myth that Jews were massacred and place this above God, religions and the prophets."
Ahmadinejad's statements were immediately condemned by the Vatican and world governments, including China.
Dr. Antonios Kireopoulos, Associate General Secretary of the NCC for International Affairs and Peace, recalled that an earlier president of Iran encouraged a "dialogue among civilizations."
"By spewing forth hatred for Israel, Judaism and the Jewish people," Kireopoulos said, "President Ahmadinejad is assuring that this dialogue will go on without Iran. How unfortunate this is for the Iranian people, many of whom do not share their president's views."
The National Council of Churches USA is composed of 35 Protestant, Anglican, Orthodox, historic African American and peace communions representing 45 million Christians in 100,000 local congregations in the United States. The African Methodist Episcopal Church is a member of the NCC.
The full text of the NCC statement:
The National Council of Churches USA condemns the comments of Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad calling for the obliteration or relocation of the State of Israel.
The State of Israel has embodied the hopes and dreams of Jews worldwide for decades, especially since the Holocaust that occurred during World War II. President Ahmadinejad's invective that the Holocaust never happened is a sobering reminder of the corrosive power of ignorance, desperation, and hatred.
It is no accident that among the first protests of the Iranian president's statement were those of German leaders, whose parents were witnesses of the horrible reality of the Holocaust. Anti-Semitism's most vociferous manifestation is the "Big Lie" now coming from Tehran.
In opposition to such incomprehensible hatred, all people of faith and good will must stand firm in their rejection of Mr. Ahmadinejad's views. We at the National Council of Churches USA deplore these views.
In the face of Mr. Ahmadinejad's call for the obliteration of Israel, the National Council of Churches USA reaffirms its support for the security of the State of Israel, alongside a viable Palestinian State. We also reaffirm our respect for Judaism and our friendship with the Jewish people.
Iran is a complex country, rich in history, much of its recent history marred by difficult relations with the international community. Most recently, these difficulties are over nuclear issues. The Iranian president's comments only serve to threaten Iran itself with further isolation from the world.
Just a few years ago, the former president of Iran encouraged the "Dialogue Among Civilizations." By spewing forth hatred for Israel, Judaism and the Jewish people, President Ahmadinejad is ensuring that this dialogue will go on without Iran. How unfortunate this is for the Iranian people, most of whom do not share their president's views.
Contact NCC News: Philip E. Jenks, 212-870-2252, pjenks@ncccusa.org; or Leslie Tune, 202-544-2350, ltune@ncccusa.org
5. THE PASTOR’S CORNER - FROM CRADLE TO CROSS, NEW AUTHORITY:
34Then Simeon blessed them and said to Mary, His mother: “This child is destined to cause the falling and rising of many in Israel, and to be a sign that will be spoken against, 35aso that the thoughts of many hearts will be revealed.
Simon saw in the Christ Child a new authority under which men and women (human kind) are to live. Christ (the Child) will cause the falling and rising of many (Luke 2: 34b).
There will be a reordering of positions in life through Christ.
Authority is the legitimate right to do something. There are all kinds of authorities working in our lives. The IRS has the authority to enforce the payment of federal income taxes. The judicial system has the right to enforce the laws governing our conduct as citizen in our society. How we fare in life is dependent on how we respond to those authorities operating in our lives. As God’s creations, how we fare, in this world and in the world to come, is dependent on how we respond to the Person of Jesus Christ.
Luke 20: 1-18 describes Jesus’ encounter with the chief priests, teachers of the law, and the elders, at the temple in Jerusalem, and illustrates the new authority God established through the Christ Child. The temple leaders asked, “Who gave you this authority?” – to do miracles, to teach and to preach. The conversation between Jesus and the temple leaders uncovers some of the authorities in our lives that replace the authority of Jesus Christ. By relying on any one of these sources of authority too heavily, we misunderstand the nature and will of God.
1. v.1-2 – The priest, teachers, and elders were the traditional holders of power and authority in Hebrew society. Tradition is valuable because it facilitates stability while lending identity to people and institutions. But, relying too heavily on tradition can subject us to backward thinking. We see life through a rear view mirror, losing our relevance to today, and unable to move forward. This can lead to the oppression of self or others. I remember hearing Governor George Wallace attempt to justify the oppression of Blacks in Alabama by saying, “This is our way of life which is governed by the traditions we hold sacred.” Where is Jesus in that worldview?
2. v. 5a – They discussed or reasoned out their response to Jesus’ inquiry about John’s baptism. Our God-given capacity to reason allows us to solve problems, imagine and create new things in life. Too heavy a reliance on our own reason can make human kind its own highest authority. We become our own gods – humanism. Whatever we reason to be true, appropriate, or acceptable wins. Life’s order is based on relative terms because, “What’s right for you is right for you. And what’s right for me is right for me!” Arrogant, unbridled self-interest in opposition to God’s desire that we love one another becomes the standard that governs our relationships.
3. v. 5b – Jesus asked them why they did not believe what they had experienced for themselves. It is through experience that we know we are alive. Our senses afford us the privilege of enjoying God, God’s wonderful creation, and each other. But, when experience becomes the source of authority in our lives, we seek what satisfies our senses. The material governs our thoughts and actions and sensory – what we see - touch, taste, smell, hear, or see. Only what tantalizes our senses is relevant to us. Shallow instability often results because we are looking for the next thrill. This is sometimes evidenced in the church. While worship should be joyous, energetic and entertaining, it is dangerous to seek only to be entertained, overlooking the sincere worship of an Almighty God.
4. v. 6 – John was recognized as the fulfillment of scripture regarding the second coming of the prophet Elijah (Matthew 11: 9 & 13-15). God instructs and guides us through Scripture. Our understanding of Scripture must be influenced by tradition, reason, and experience or what may result is legalism. Legalism is when we operate in the letter of the law losing the spirit of the law. Harsh, judgmental attitudes often exist when Scripture is not interpreted through God’s love for us.
The Need for Christ’s Authority:
To know and live lives of truth, all sources of authority – Scripture, tradition, reason, and experience – must be placed under Christ’s authority because Christ’s Spirit guides us into all truth (John 16: 13). He dwells in every believer and makes known to us the mind of Christ. There is a reordering of positions in life through Christ. Christ’s authority causes the falling and rising of many (Luke 2: 34b) because, “There is neither Jew nor Greek, slave nor free, male nor female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus (Galatians 3: 28).” This is the will of God under Christ’s “New Authority.”
Pastor James Moody
Quinn Chapel AME, Chicago
The Reverend Dr. Johnny Barbour, Jr., Publisher
The Reverend Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III, Editor
1. THE MEMPHIS FUNERAL FOR HELAINE ALEECE HENNING WAS A CELEBRATION:
The loss of a child has to be one of the most difficult experiences in life. We tend to think that we will be faced with the task of burying our parents and might even be faced with the task of burying one of our siblings, but the unsettling task of burying one of our children is a thought that most of us do not want to think about or imagine.
And, that was the task that Bishop C. Garnett Henning and Mother Ernestine Henning were faced with – burying their oldest child, Helaine Aleece Henning. Death never comes at a convenient time and we are almost never prepared for it, and there is never a convenient time for the death of one’s child.
The mood was somber as the family filed into the St. Andrews AME Church located at 867 South Parkway in Memphis. The parents among the congregation had to feel a degree of painful empathy with the Henning family as they paid their last respects to their oldest child; and this was their second funeral for one of their children. They lost a son to an automobile accident, so this funeral for their oldest daughter, deeply affected all of us. The pain was evident in the silence, the tears, the painful expressions on the faces of the congregants, as the organist played the prelude as the family entered the sanctuary and took their seats.
The somberness ended quickly with the words of scripture lifted up by the liturgist, the Rt. Reverend Vashti Murphy McKenzie, Presiding Prelate of the 13th Episcopal District. The celebration of the life of Helaine Aleece Henning began. The Call to Worship and the congregational singing of the hymn, “Great is Thy Faithfulness” lifted the spirits of family and the congregation. The invocation by the Rt. Reverend William Phillips DeVeaux, Presiding Prelate of the 6th Episcopal District, was a prayer of empathy and comfort. The scripture lessons and the choral selections by the 8th Episcopal District Choir added significantly to the celebration. Presiding Elder Michelle Goodloe, the Reverend Douglas Taylor and the Reverend Catherine Amedee led in the reading of the scriptures. The Reverend Jacob Hilton extended the call to worship.
Words of comfort were extended to the family by Mrs. Jamesina Evans, on behalf of the Connectional Women’s missionary Society; the Reverend Thomas Brown on behalf of the pastors of the 8th Episcopal District, and Presiding Elder Otis Lewis on behalf of the 8th Episcopal District. Dr. Clement Fugh, General Secretary, AME Church and Dr. Richard Lewis, Treasurer of the AME Church extended words of comfort on behalf of the Council of General Officers. The Rt. Reverend Robert V. Webster, Presiding Prelate of the 3rd Episcopal District, the Rt. Reverend Richard Allen Chappelle, Presiding Prelate of the 12th Episcopal District, and the Rt. Rev. Preston W. Williams, Presiding Prelate of the 7th Episcopal District gave words of comfort on behalf of the African Methodist Episcopal Church and the Council of Bishops. Their words and expression of faith and hope were comforting to the family. The presence of retired Bishop, the Rt. Reverend Frederick H. Talbot was comforting to the family.
The Henning and Lee families participated in worship and their participation would have been a great homegoing without anyone else’s participation. What a talented family! One of the cousins, Sister Pamela Bowman offered words of encouragement and sang a solo. Cousins Cassandra Denise Swift, Kristen Henning, gave words of comfort. A defining moment in the service was the words given by Mother Ernestine Lee Henning, a mother’s tribute to her daughter. Helaine’s uncles, Ekpe Abioto, flutist and Mark Lee, guitarist could have, by themselves, provided all of the music for the service. Both are accomplished musicians. Brother Abioto shared several African proverbs, one of which says, “The stronger we are, the stronger I am” in terms of working together and being faithful family members. He also shared the African proverb, “The ruin of a nation begins in the home.” The Holy Spirit-filled singing of Sister Ernestine Dillard lifted us off our seats! She sang, the musicians played and the congregation praised God.
The preacher, Presiding Elder Floyd (Preach) Alexander, took the congregation to an even higher level of worship with his wonderful sermon and words of comfort. His message was timely and relevant. The family appeared comforted and the burden of somberness felt at the beginning of the service was lifted. Helaine Aleece Henning had been eulogized and the homegoing was almost complete.
Bishop C. Garnett Henning, the Presiding Prelate of the 8th Episcopal District, the father, extended the expression of appreciation and he did so with dignity and strength. As the Reverend Thomas Brown said earlier in the service, “Bishop you have presided at many funerals and you have told the bereaved that God would comfort them, and now we come to tell you that God will comfort you and your family in your time of bereavement.” Bishop Henning’s comments were delivered as a father who had been comforted. He thanked those who had participated in the California service, especially Bishop John Bryant, the Presiding Prelate of the 5th Episcopal District, the Reverend Sylvester Laudermill, pastor of Ward AME Church and the Ward AME Church family,
The recessional was spirited with congregants greeting the Henning and Lee families and each other as only AMEs can. The Homegoing was a “good old fashion” AME meeting. Except for the hearse in front of St. Andrews AME Church, anyone passing by after the funeral would have thought that we were attending an annual conference. That was the spirit of Helaine’s homegoing.
St. Andrews AME Church was the ultimate host for the “event.” The Reverend Dr. Kenneth Robinson is the pastor. His wife, the Reverend Marilynn Robinson is co-pastor.
2. CHURCH PLANTING IS A VIABLE WAY FOR THE AME CHURCH TO BE INVIGORATED:
Reverend Bobete Hampton
I am convinced that church 'plants' are the only way that our AMEC is going to grow. I thank God that Bishop Cousin gave me the opportunity to build God's church on His Word. In 2002, Bishop Cousin gave three appointments for 'New Work' in the Michigan Conference. Today, Fresh Fire AMEC is the only 'New Work' from the plants in 2002. In 2003, the other two plants were merged with smaller established churches.
Of course, Bishop gave out two additional appointments for New Work in 2003. I believe that if the Connectional Church would come up with a viable plan to encourage seminarians to 'plant churches' and the Connection and District, support the new work, the seminarians would not have to "wait for someone to die" or be transferred before stepping into a pulpit.
They would not have to wait for an appointment, and our church would begin to grow.
As large as our church is, (35 adults and 35 youth and children), FAITH has enabled us to adopt 8 displaced individuals from New Orleans, clothe them, feed them, secure transportation, housing and jobs by collaborating with agencies in the community. Fresh Fire is God working in His New Testament Church in Action!
Please read the attached article. Fresh Fire is a historical plant in the City of Kalamazoo, MI. It is the first AMEC plant since 1855. That was 147 years ago! The first church was Allen Chapel, which is the church in which I was raised. There had never been a female pastor pastoring in Kalamazoo, until I planted Fresh Fire 2002. I welcome the opportunity to share with you the growth and development of our Urban Ministry. I may be reached at 269-629-8087 (H), 269-381-8050 (C) or 269-352-5785 (Cell). Have a Blessed Holiday Season. The web site is www.robertmweir.com/encorepages/encorehampton.
Pastor Bobette Hampton
3. TYLER DISTRICT LAY ORGANIZATION NIGHT OF STAR POWER:
By: Delanda S. Johnson
Guest Writer
The Tenacious Tyler District Lay Organization of the African Methodist Episcopal Church shined with the stars on Saturday, December 3, 2005, at their First Annual Lay Banquet. The banquet held at the Ramada Inn Conference Center in Tyler, Texas hosted approximately 200 people; who gathered to hear the speaker for the evening well known Actor, Singer, Composer, Producer, and Minister Rev. Dr. Clifton Davis.
You will probably best remember him as Rev. Rueben Gregory on the popular NBC television series, “AMEN.” His other television credits include starring in “The Melba Moore & Clifton Davis Show” and “That’s My Mama.”
Dr. Davis holds a BA in Theology, a Master of Divinity degree, a Doctor of Ministry degree, and a Doctor of Letters degree. He is listed in “Who’s Who In America” and has been recognized by such organizations as the SCLC, UNCF, World Vision, and the NAACP. He served as co-founder, co-Pastor of Welcome Christian Center of Huntington Beach, California, and licensed as an ordained minister by St. Luke Baptist Church, New York, New York.
On Christian television, Davis hosts C. A. T. S. (Christian Artist Talent Search) on INSP television; the host of “Backstage Pass” and ministers for “Praise the Lord” on the Trinity Broadcasting Network.
In an exclusive interview before the banquet, Davis expressed his delight in begin back in Texas where you have wide-open spaces and warm friendly face.
Davis noted five years ago, he was the keynote speaker for the Athens-Henderson County Branch NAACP, but this was his first time speaking for the Tyler District Lay Organization of the A. M. E. Church.
As a minister/speaker, Davis travels three weeks out of every month throughout the country. Davis stated that traveling throughout the country he does not have the time for a full-time congregation (church), but loves how the Lord uses him when speaking to different audiences around the world.
When asked about his calling to the ministry, Davis stated, “I’m amazed that the Lord called him at all. Each time that I go forth to speak, I’m humble at the responsibility that the Lord has placed on me and I do my best to meet that responsibility.”
Mrs. Gloria Glaspie, Allen Chapel AME Church, Athens; stated, “We are here to magnify and glorify the name of Jesus. We come together in this Christmas season to worship, love, and bring comforted to those effected by the hurricanes and peace to those who have love ones in Iraq. However, tonight we are here to help the Lay Organization that stands for helping, serving, giving, and education. Let us leave here tonight as AME’s with the goal of fulfilling our destiny and our mission, which is to serve.”
The evening moved with the spiritual and golden voices of Mrs. Linda Cook singing, “Heavenly Choir” and Ms. Leatrice Gray singing “Miracles and Blessings.”
With two emotional singers, the spirit of the Lord was ready to move as Rev. Dr. Clifton Davis began to speak on “Called to Make a Difference.”
Rev. Dr. Davis expressed to the congregation that the difference we make should make a difference in each other lives. “We see a world not as a glorious oyster, but we see a creation that is crying out for Christ return. Our eyes see things differently from the world, economically and spiritually. We are of God.”
Davis electrified the congregation by stating that GOD will make a way out of no way, that in times of trouble and peace, God is there.
“I have hope when hope is gone. I have hope when the world has lost all hope. I have hope in Jesus Christ,” said Davis.
Davis stated, “that if we are different, we should be able to make a difference in someone else lives. Others should see the difference that Jesus has make in you. Your power, your purpose, and your will is no longer your own. You will have a different walk, a different talk, your light will shine in Jesus Christ; you have made a difference.”
4. NCC CONDEMNS AHMADINEJAD'S HOLOCAUST STATEMENT:
December 16, 2005, New York -- In unusually strong language, the National Council of Churches USA has condemned Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad's call for the obliteration of Israel and his claim that the Holocaust was "a myth."
"It is no accident that among the first protests of the Iranian president's statement were those of German leaders, whose parents were witnesses of the horrible reality of the Holocaust," said the Rev. Dr. Bob Edgar, General Secretary of the NCC. "Anti-Semitism's most vociferous manifestation is the 'Big Lie' now coming from Tehran."
Edgar also reaffirmed the NCC's support for the security of the State of Israel, alongside a viable Palestinian State.
Ahmadinejad's remarks were made during a convention entitled, "A World Without Zionists." He said the state of Israel should be wiped off the map. He went on to say, that Western leaders "have invented a myth that Jews were massacred and place this above God, religions and the prophets."
Ahmadinejad's statements were immediately condemned by the Vatican and world governments, including China.
Dr. Antonios Kireopoulos, Associate General Secretary of the NCC for International Affairs and Peace, recalled that an earlier president of Iran encouraged a "dialogue among civilizations."
"By spewing forth hatred for Israel, Judaism and the Jewish people," Kireopoulos said, "President Ahmadinejad is assuring that this dialogue will go on without Iran. How unfortunate this is for the Iranian people, many of whom do not share their president's views."
The National Council of Churches USA is composed of 35 Protestant, Anglican, Orthodox, historic African American and peace communions representing 45 million Christians in 100,000 local congregations in the United States. The African Methodist Episcopal Church is a member of the NCC.
The full text of the NCC statement:
The National Council of Churches USA condemns the comments of Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad calling for the obliteration or relocation of the State of Israel.
The State of Israel has embodied the hopes and dreams of Jews worldwide for decades, especially since the Holocaust that occurred during World War II. President Ahmadinejad's invective that the Holocaust never happened is a sobering reminder of the corrosive power of ignorance, desperation, and hatred.
It is no accident that among the first protests of the Iranian president's statement were those of German leaders, whose parents were witnesses of the horrible reality of the Holocaust. Anti-Semitism's most vociferous manifestation is the "Big Lie" now coming from Tehran.
In opposition to such incomprehensible hatred, all people of faith and good will must stand firm in their rejection of Mr. Ahmadinejad's views. We at the National Council of Churches USA deplore these views.
In the face of Mr. Ahmadinejad's call for the obliteration of Israel, the National Council of Churches USA reaffirms its support for the security of the State of Israel, alongside a viable Palestinian State. We also reaffirm our respect for Judaism and our friendship with the Jewish people.
Iran is a complex country, rich in history, much of its recent history marred by difficult relations with the international community. Most recently, these difficulties are over nuclear issues. The Iranian president's comments only serve to threaten Iran itself with further isolation from the world.
Just a few years ago, the former president of Iran encouraged the "Dialogue Among Civilizations." By spewing forth hatred for Israel, Judaism and the Jewish people, President Ahmadinejad is ensuring that this dialogue will go on without Iran. How unfortunate this is for the Iranian people, most of whom do not share their president's views.
Contact NCC News: Philip E. Jenks, 212-870-2252, pjenks@ncccusa.org; or Leslie Tune, 202-544-2350, ltune@ncccusa.org
5. THE PASTOR’S CORNER - FROM CRADLE TO CROSS, NEW AUTHORITY:
34Then Simeon blessed them and said to Mary, His mother: “This child is destined to cause the falling and rising of many in Israel, and to be a sign that will be spoken against, 35aso that the thoughts of many hearts will be revealed.
Simon saw in the Christ Child a new authority under which men and women (human kind) are to live. Christ (the Child) will cause the falling and rising of many (Luke 2: 34b).
There will be a reordering of positions in life through Christ.
Authority is the legitimate right to do something. There are all kinds of authorities working in our lives. The IRS has the authority to enforce the payment of federal income taxes. The judicial system has the right to enforce the laws governing our conduct as citizen in our society. How we fare in life is dependent on how we respond to those authorities operating in our lives. As God’s creations, how we fare, in this world and in the world to come, is dependent on how we respond to the Person of Jesus Christ.
Luke 20: 1-18 describes Jesus’ encounter with the chief priests, teachers of the law, and the elders, at the temple in Jerusalem, and illustrates the new authority God established through the Christ Child. The temple leaders asked, “Who gave you this authority?” – to do miracles, to teach and to preach. The conversation between Jesus and the temple leaders uncovers some of the authorities in our lives that replace the authority of Jesus Christ. By relying on any one of these sources of authority too heavily, we misunderstand the nature and will of God.
1. v.1-2 – The priest, teachers, and elders were the traditional holders of power and authority in Hebrew society. Tradition is valuable because it facilitates stability while lending identity to people and institutions. But, relying too heavily on tradition can subject us to backward thinking. We see life through a rear view mirror, losing our relevance to today, and unable to move forward. This can lead to the oppression of self or others. I remember hearing Governor George Wallace attempt to justify the oppression of Blacks in Alabama by saying, “This is our way of life which is governed by the traditions we hold sacred.” Where is Jesus in that worldview?
2. v. 5a – They discussed or reasoned out their response to Jesus’ inquiry about John’s baptism. Our God-given capacity to reason allows us to solve problems, imagine and create new things in life. Too heavy a reliance on our own reason can make human kind its own highest authority. We become our own gods – humanism. Whatever we reason to be true, appropriate, or acceptable wins. Life’s order is based on relative terms because, “What’s right for you is right for you. And what’s right for me is right for me!” Arrogant, unbridled self-interest in opposition to God’s desire that we love one another becomes the standard that governs our relationships.
3. v. 5b – Jesus asked them why they did not believe what they had experienced for themselves. It is through experience that we know we are alive. Our senses afford us the privilege of enjoying God, God’s wonderful creation, and each other. But, when experience becomes the source of authority in our lives, we seek what satisfies our senses. The material governs our thoughts and actions and sensory – what we see - touch, taste, smell, hear, or see. Only what tantalizes our senses is relevant to us. Shallow instability often results because we are looking for the next thrill. This is sometimes evidenced in the church. While worship should be joyous, energetic and entertaining, it is dangerous to seek only to be entertained, overlooking the sincere worship of an Almighty God.
4. v. 6 – John was recognized as the fulfillment of scripture regarding the second coming of the prophet Elijah (Matthew 11: 9 & 13-15). God instructs and guides us through Scripture. Our understanding of Scripture must be influenced by tradition, reason, and experience or what may result is legalism. Legalism is when we operate in the letter of the law losing the spirit of the law. Harsh, judgmental attitudes often exist when Scripture is not interpreted through God’s love for us.
The Need for Christ’s Authority:
To know and live lives of truth, all sources of authority – Scripture, tradition, reason, and experience – must be placed under Christ’s authority because Christ’s Spirit guides us into all truth (John 16: 13). He dwells in every believer and makes known to us the mind of Christ. There is a reordering of positions in life through Christ. Christ’s authority causes the falling and rising of many (Luke 2: 34b) because, “There is neither Jew nor Greek, slave nor free, male nor female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus (Galatians 3: 28).” This is the will of God under Christ’s “New Authority.”
Pastor James Moody
Quinn Chapel AME, Chicago