Tune in to C-Span all day today, Saturday, February 26 beginning at 8 a.m. EST. - all day!
Tavis Smiley (with co-host Tom Joyner) Presents the State of the Black Union 2005. The program is entitled, "Road to Health and Defining the African American Agenda.
African American leaders from all walks of American life will appear on the program.
Bishop Vashti McKenzie, a bishop in the AME Church will appear on the program in the segment beginning at 3 p.m. EST until the program's conclusion. She is the presiding prelate of the 13th Episcopal District of the African Methodist Episcopal Church.
Bishop McKenzie is the only AME religious leader on the program of national "heavy weights."
Tune in to C-Span and see Jackie Joyner-Kersee, Dr. M. Joycelyn Elders, Minister Louis Farrakhan, Bishop Eddie Long, the Reverend Al Sharpton, Dr. Cornel West, the Reverend Dr. Michael Eric Dyson, the Reverend Jesse L. Jackson, Sr, Bishop Vashti Murphy McKenzie, et.al.
Archive of The Christian Recorder Online from 2004-2016; Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III, 20th Editor of The Christian Recorder
2/26/2005
2/25/2005
THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER ONLINE (2/25/05)
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. EDITOR’S CORNER:
The Winner(s) who answer(s) the question(s) concerning AME History will be announced in the next issue.
2. BISHOP MCKENZIE WILL BE THE KEYNOTE SPEAKER AT THE 13TH ANNUAL AFRICAN AMERICAN CHURCH DAY ON CAPITOL HILL:
Bishop McKenzie will be the keynote speaker at the 13th annual African American Church Day on Capitol Hill, Tuesday, March 1, 2005 – 8:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. at Tennessee State University at the Avon Williams Campus on the 3rd floor Auditorium in Nashville, Tennessee.
The purpose of African American Church Day on Capitol Hill is to educate the public regarding the legislative process and to focus on economic justice and equality through political advocacy and influence.
The public is invited and a free continental breakfast and lunch will be provided.
Submitted by Dr. Richard Lewis, Treasurer/CFO, AMEC Finance Department.
3. BETHEL, HUNTINGTON, NY WELCOMES PASTOR MICHAEL D. WASHINGTON:
Led by the efforts of the Steward Board and Sister Jennifer C. White, Chairperson, members and friends of Bethel A.M.E. Church, Huntington, NY joined to participate in a Community Welcome for the 32nd Pastor of the church. After opening with the invocation by Rev. George D. Spearmon, Jr.; scripture reading by Sister Victoria Motley; and explanation of the occasion by Sister Thelma Abidally, the next portion of the program proceeded. Words of welcome and encouragement to Rev. Washington were given by Bro. Donald Bentley on behalf of the Steward Board and Sis. Quetta Latimer on behalf of the Trustee Board. A representative of Frank Petrone, Supervisor of the Town of Huntington, extended a welcome on behalf of town officials. Bernard Reverdin of Old First Presbyterian Church welcomed Rev. Washington on behalf of the community churches and expressed a desire to continue the previously established frequent and varied fellowship exchanges between the churches. Music for the occasion was furnished by The Male Chorus, under the direction of Bro. Ulysses H. Spicer.
Rev. Dr. William R. Spencer spoke for the Ministerial Staff of Bethel, offering support, assistance, and loyalty to the new pastor. Rev. Vernon I. Lowe, Presiding Elder of the Jamaica-Long Island District and President of the Presiding Elders Council spoke in glowing terms about Rev. Washington and challenged the congregation to receive him wholeheartedly and to be in full support of his administration.
A personal highlight of the occasion was that Rev. E. Timothy Nathan, pastor of Payne Chapel A.M.E. Church, Birmingham, AL, was in attendance and was a participant on the program. Rev. Washington and Rev. Nathan were seminary students together at Turner Theological Seminary in Atlanta, GA and have remained close friends since that time.
Pastor Washington arrived at Bethel, Huntington just in time to help celebrate the 161st anniversary of this historic church. He brings with him a willingness and eagerness to serve God’s people in Huntington. He quickly discovered the need of the congregants to be comforted and assured that he understands their concerns, given the recent events in the history of the church. Because of his deep understanding, this transition in leadership progresses smoothly. Pastor Washington began immediately to set forth his plans for the congregation to meet certain goals.
Rev. Washington is particularly interested in working with all members of the Huntington area clergy. He plans to become a member of the Huntington Hospital Chaplaincy Team and wishes to become an integral art of the Huntington community, in general. He places great stress on the importance of family and emphasizes the necessity for unity in all phases of our work for God. He envisions moving Bethel forward one step at a time and firmly believes that God will lead him and enable him to go forth with His work in this particular area of His vineyard.
4. REBUILDING ON THE LEGACY OF THE PAST, STANDING ON THE HOPE OF THE PRESENT, WHILE STRIVING FOR SPIRITUAL AND ECONOMIC LIBERATION FOR ALL PEOPLE:
By Charita Johnson-Burgess, Member of St. Mark A.M.E. Church
A Founder’s Day that was truly blessed by the Lord was held in the Thirteenth Episcopal District on Sunday, February 13th at St. Mark A.M.E. Church in Parsons, Tennessee, where the Reverend Sabrina Transou is the pastor. The Right Reverend Vashti Murphy McKenzie is the presiding prelate of the Thirteenth Episcopal District. This year’s Founder’s Day theme was, “Rebuilding on the Legacy of the Past, Standing on the Hope of the Present, While Striving for Spiritual and Economic Liberation for All People.”
The day was filled with history, inspiration, and reflection. The morning worship service began with a soul-inspiring sermon delivered by the Reverend Sabrina Transou who stated, “Before you know where you’re going, you have to know where you’re coming from.” Her text was taken from Habakkuk 2:2-4 with a focus on, “Their vision is yet for an appointed time, but at the end it shall speak.” She reminding the worshipers that their vision should be God’s vision for them; and when they trust God who gives them the vision, they will need to hold on to it, and in the end their vision will bear fruit. Reverend Transou closed her sermon with an admonition for each person to commend his or her spirit and vision into the Hands of the Lord as Moses was commended to the Lord after his birth; so must each of us commend our spirits, our visions, and ourselves to the Lord.
The high spiritual time of the morning service was followed by the rapture of the afternoon service with the inspiring message of Bishop Vashti Murphy McKenzie. Bishop McKenzie focused on the challenge of transitioning from the “ordinary life to extraordinary life.” Bishop McKenzie’s inspirational delivery had the congregation on its feet in praise and thanksgiving. She reminded the congregation that each person was a unique individual in the image of God and that God has a song for each person, that only he or she could sing. Bishop McKenzie went on to explain that God had a prayer for each person, that only he or she could pray; a sermon that only he or she could preach; because there is something in this world that God has appointed for each person, and what God gives to each person, only that person can do. Bishop McKenzie’s sermon directed those in attendance to the three needs that take them, “From the ordinary the extraordinary.” She went on to say, “People must be as Moses was: God directed; not moving before asking for God’s direction; God equipped, knowing that you are equipped with what is needed to carry out God’s task; and holding on to the assurance that God will not send you a alone - God will send each person, ‘an Aaron’ who is knowledgeable about what you must achieve.” Bishop McKenzie encouraged the congregation, “Do not to worry about having all the information, for when God directs and equips you, God will send someone with you…
(Read the complete article in The Christian Recorder)
Subscribe to the hardcopy Christian Recorder and receive it in the mail. You may call 800-648-8724 and make your payment using your credit card.
Or, you may send $26.00 check or money order for a one-year subscription to:
The Christian Recorder
512 8th Avenue South
Nashville, Tennessee 37203-4181
5. TEXAS ANNUAL CONFERENCE “GULF COAST MINISTERIAL ALLIANCE ANNOUNCES HOLY WEEK AND EASTER SUNRISE SERVICES:
The Texas Conference "Gulf Coast Ministerial Alliance" will begin its Holy Week Services at Payne Cathedral of Faith AME Church, 2701 Lee Street, Houston, Texas. The Reverend Marshall Hobbs is the host pastor.
Holy Week worship services will begin Tuesday night March 22, 2005 at 7:00 p.m. nightly through Friday March 25. The alliance Easter Sunrise Service will at Payne Cathedral on Easter Sunday morning, March 27, at 6:00 a.m. Everyone is invited to come and enjoy the telling of "THE GOOD NEWS."
The Reverend Hunt Harris, President; the Reverend Herman Reese, Coordinator
6. LETTER TO THE EDITOR:
Dear Dr. Sydnor
To God be the glory!!
I salute Presiding Elder Sidney W. Williams, Jr. for allowing us to glimpse into his past. Such an experience and cogent statement about what happened in the past should awaken us also.
By the way, for those that may not have known, on January 29, 2005, the Reverend Sidney W. Williams, Jr. celebrated 50 years of ministry at 3rd Street Bethel AMEC in Richmond, Virginia.
The Church of Allen continues to salute you Presiding Elder Williams!
The Reverend Norman VickThe Virginia Annual Conference
The Reverend Dr. Johnny Barbour, Jr., Publisher
The Reverend Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III, Editor
1. EDITOR’S CORNER:
The Winner(s) who answer(s) the question(s) concerning AME History will be announced in the next issue.
2. BISHOP MCKENZIE WILL BE THE KEYNOTE SPEAKER AT THE 13TH ANNUAL AFRICAN AMERICAN CHURCH DAY ON CAPITOL HILL:
Bishop McKenzie will be the keynote speaker at the 13th annual African American Church Day on Capitol Hill, Tuesday, March 1, 2005 – 8:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. at Tennessee State University at the Avon Williams Campus on the 3rd floor Auditorium in Nashville, Tennessee.
The purpose of African American Church Day on Capitol Hill is to educate the public regarding the legislative process and to focus on economic justice and equality through political advocacy and influence.
The public is invited and a free continental breakfast and lunch will be provided.
Submitted by Dr. Richard Lewis, Treasurer/CFO, AMEC Finance Department.
3. BETHEL, HUNTINGTON, NY WELCOMES PASTOR MICHAEL D. WASHINGTON:
Led by the efforts of the Steward Board and Sister Jennifer C. White, Chairperson, members and friends of Bethel A.M.E. Church, Huntington, NY joined to participate in a Community Welcome for the 32nd Pastor of the church. After opening with the invocation by Rev. George D. Spearmon, Jr.; scripture reading by Sister Victoria Motley; and explanation of the occasion by Sister Thelma Abidally, the next portion of the program proceeded. Words of welcome and encouragement to Rev. Washington were given by Bro. Donald Bentley on behalf of the Steward Board and Sis. Quetta Latimer on behalf of the Trustee Board. A representative of Frank Petrone, Supervisor of the Town of Huntington, extended a welcome on behalf of town officials. Bernard Reverdin of Old First Presbyterian Church welcomed Rev. Washington on behalf of the community churches and expressed a desire to continue the previously established frequent and varied fellowship exchanges between the churches. Music for the occasion was furnished by The Male Chorus, under the direction of Bro. Ulysses H. Spicer.
Rev. Dr. William R. Spencer spoke for the Ministerial Staff of Bethel, offering support, assistance, and loyalty to the new pastor. Rev. Vernon I. Lowe, Presiding Elder of the Jamaica-Long Island District and President of the Presiding Elders Council spoke in glowing terms about Rev. Washington and challenged the congregation to receive him wholeheartedly and to be in full support of his administration.
A personal highlight of the occasion was that Rev. E. Timothy Nathan, pastor of Payne Chapel A.M.E. Church, Birmingham, AL, was in attendance and was a participant on the program. Rev. Washington and Rev. Nathan were seminary students together at Turner Theological Seminary in Atlanta, GA and have remained close friends since that time.
Pastor Washington arrived at Bethel, Huntington just in time to help celebrate the 161st anniversary of this historic church. He brings with him a willingness and eagerness to serve God’s people in Huntington. He quickly discovered the need of the congregants to be comforted and assured that he understands their concerns, given the recent events in the history of the church. Because of his deep understanding, this transition in leadership progresses smoothly. Pastor Washington began immediately to set forth his plans for the congregation to meet certain goals.
Rev. Washington is particularly interested in working with all members of the Huntington area clergy. He plans to become a member of the Huntington Hospital Chaplaincy Team and wishes to become an integral art of the Huntington community, in general. He places great stress on the importance of family and emphasizes the necessity for unity in all phases of our work for God. He envisions moving Bethel forward one step at a time and firmly believes that God will lead him and enable him to go forth with His work in this particular area of His vineyard.
4. REBUILDING ON THE LEGACY OF THE PAST, STANDING ON THE HOPE OF THE PRESENT, WHILE STRIVING FOR SPIRITUAL AND ECONOMIC LIBERATION FOR ALL PEOPLE:
By Charita Johnson-Burgess, Member of St. Mark A.M.E. Church
A Founder’s Day that was truly blessed by the Lord was held in the Thirteenth Episcopal District on Sunday, February 13th at St. Mark A.M.E. Church in Parsons, Tennessee, where the Reverend Sabrina Transou is the pastor. The Right Reverend Vashti Murphy McKenzie is the presiding prelate of the Thirteenth Episcopal District. This year’s Founder’s Day theme was, “Rebuilding on the Legacy of the Past, Standing on the Hope of the Present, While Striving for Spiritual and Economic Liberation for All People.”
The day was filled with history, inspiration, and reflection. The morning worship service began with a soul-inspiring sermon delivered by the Reverend Sabrina Transou who stated, “Before you know where you’re going, you have to know where you’re coming from.” Her text was taken from Habakkuk 2:2-4 with a focus on, “Their vision is yet for an appointed time, but at the end it shall speak.” She reminding the worshipers that their vision should be God’s vision for them; and when they trust God who gives them the vision, they will need to hold on to it, and in the end their vision will bear fruit. Reverend Transou closed her sermon with an admonition for each person to commend his or her spirit and vision into the Hands of the Lord as Moses was commended to the Lord after his birth; so must each of us commend our spirits, our visions, and ourselves to the Lord.
The high spiritual time of the morning service was followed by the rapture of the afternoon service with the inspiring message of Bishop Vashti Murphy McKenzie. Bishop McKenzie focused on the challenge of transitioning from the “ordinary life to extraordinary life.” Bishop McKenzie’s inspirational delivery had the congregation on its feet in praise and thanksgiving. She reminded the congregation that each person was a unique individual in the image of God and that God has a song for each person, that only he or she could sing. Bishop McKenzie went on to explain that God had a prayer for each person, that only he or she could pray; a sermon that only he or she could preach; because there is something in this world that God has appointed for each person, and what God gives to each person, only that person can do. Bishop McKenzie’s sermon directed those in attendance to the three needs that take them, “From the ordinary the extraordinary.” She went on to say, “People must be as Moses was: God directed; not moving before asking for God’s direction; God equipped, knowing that you are equipped with what is needed to carry out God’s task; and holding on to the assurance that God will not send you a alone - God will send each person, ‘an Aaron’ who is knowledgeable about what you must achieve.” Bishop McKenzie encouraged the congregation, “Do not to worry about having all the information, for when God directs and equips you, God will send someone with you…
(Read the complete article in The Christian Recorder)
Subscribe to the hardcopy Christian Recorder and receive it in the mail. You may call 800-648-8724 and make your payment using your credit card.
Or, you may send $26.00 check or money order for a one-year subscription to:
The Christian Recorder
512 8th Avenue South
Nashville, Tennessee 37203-4181
5. TEXAS ANNUAL CONFERENCE “GULF COAST MINISTERIAL ALLIANCE ANNOUNCES HOLY WEEK AND EASTER SUNRISE SERVICES:
The Texas Conference "Gulf Coast Ministerial Alliance" will begin its Holy Week Services at Payne Cathedral of Faith AME Church, 2701 Lee Street, Houston, Texas. The Reverend Marshall Hobbs is the host pastor.
Holy Week worship services will begin Tuesday night March 22, 2005 at 7:00 p.m. nightly through Friday March 25. The alliance Easter Sunrise Service will at Payne Cathedral on Easter Sunday morning, March 27, at 6:00 a.m. Everyone is invited to come and enjoy the telling of "THE GOOD NEWS."
The Reverend Hunt Harris, President; the Reverend Herman Reese, Coordinator
6. LETTER TO THE EDITOR:
Dear Dr. Sydnor
To God be the glory!!
I salute Presiding Elder Sidney W. Williams, Jr. for allowing us to glimpse into his past. Such an experience and cogent statement about what happened in the past should awaken us also.
By the way, for those that may not have known, on January 29, 2005, the Reverend Sidney W. Williams, Jr. celebrated 50 years of ministry at 3rd Street Bethel AMEC in Richmond, Virginia.
The Church of Allen continues to salute you Presiding Elder Williams!
The Reverend Norman VickThe Virginia Annual Conference
2/24/2005
THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER ONLINE (2/24/05)
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 EDITOR’S CORNER:
The winner is…! Dr. Bill Dickens who posed the question, shares his thoughts about who should be declared the winner:
“The correct year I was looking for was indeed 1904. I thought it was obvious that the original question implied Quadrennial General Conference and not Special Sessions.
Now, according to the Richard Allen Museum, Bishop David Henry Sims was the 55th elected and consecrated bishop (elected in 1932) and served 33 years. I'm confused by the reference to Sims name and the number of bishops expelled in 1946. Sims served well beyond 1946. Now it is true that Bishop Curry, the 60th elected and consecrated bishop, elected in 1940, served only 6 years. The end of his tenure on the bench coincides with the expulsion vote of 1946. Presiding Elder Williams makes an interesting case but it is in my opinion a noteworthy footnote, not a correct answer. Special Sessions are, by definition, not Quadrennial General Conferences. Bishop Sims was not expelled in 1946.
I vote to give the gift book to the subscriber who correctly identified the year as 1904.
However, in the true spirit of Christian collegiality we all benefited from Presiding Elder Williams’ timely entry. His contribution merits a "runner-up" award. If you have an extra copy of Bishop Nichols’ book pass it on to Reverend Williams.
Bro. Bill Dickens
Asst. District Church School Superintendent
Tallahassee District
Tallahassee, Florida
Editor’s Comment:
According to the Encyclopaedia of African Methodism compiled by Bishop R. R. Wright, page 19, Bishop D. H. Sims was indeed expelled at the extra session of the General Conference held in Little Rock, Arkansas.
We would appreciate If Dr. Dennis Dickerson, AME Church Historiographer or any other “historian” of African Methodism would clarify the issue of Bishop Sims’ tenure.
- Dr. Sydnor
I know I can't win the prize because I work in Bishop Vashti Murphy McKenzie’s office here at the AME Publishing House and I had the assistance of several General Officers; but I found the trivia question quite fascinating and it gave me an opportunity to study some AME History during Black History Month. Thank you.
The answer to the question of when was the last time we held a General Conference when no Bishops were elected was 1904. During the conference the delegates considered legislation, worshipped and elected/re-elected some General Officers. During his opening address at the 1904 Quadrennial General Conference, Bishop Cornelius T. Shaffer's recommended that the General Conference not elect any new Bishops because the Church had enough bishops to superintend the work of the Church; so no bishops were elected.
I would like to thank Dr. Dennis Dickerson for giving me access to and for reviewing the minutes of the 1904 General Conference with me.
Kindest Regards
The Rev. Tyronda Howse Burgess
Executive Aide to Bishop Vashti Murphy McKenzie
- Dear Editor Sydnor,
There is no doubt that Presiding Elder Sidney Williams is one of the sharpest minds in the Church, and has served on the General Board for 32 years. Since he answered the question, and provided the fine details surrounding the special session, he should be given the prize, hands down; I learned something, from his answer.
Valerie Gary Bell
General Board
2nd Episcopal District
- One of the responses received surmised that Presiding Elder Williams may have been present at the 1946 called session of the General Conference. Appended below is his response:
“My Father attended the called-session of the General Conference held in Little Rock. He was a true friend of Bishop Monroe H. Davis and stood with him faithfully. Dad was severely penalized for his fidelity to Bishop Davis. He was demoted and was reassigned from Mt. Moriah AME Church, Annapolis, Maryland to St. Paul AME Church, Newport News, Virginia. Another supporter of Bishop Davis, the Reverend J. E. Reese was reassigned from Bethel AME, Baltimore to Bethel AME Church, Hampton, Virginia. There were others who were punished also. The AME Church accepted negative actions of reprisal in those days. The Minister’s Bill of Rights was not a part of Church law at that time. Dad never regretted the price that he paid. He instilled in me that manhood requires a willingness to stand on principle and that no price is too high. It greatly affected my life. I was not thinking about ministry at that time. It was a seed sown that bore fruit many seasons later.
Forgive me for the personal reflection. I needed to revisit those moments of years ago.”
SWW
- The Winners:
Sister Delores Kennedy-Williams
5th Connectional President
Women’s Missionary Society,
African Methodist Episcopal Church.
The Reverend Dr. Sidney Williams,
Presiding Elder
The Richmond, Roanoke, Portsmouth District of the
Virginia Annual Conference
2. AME HISTORY
The Christian Recorder Online is instituting a question and answer forum, from time to time, in hopes of raising the awareness and knowledge of our constituency of the history of the African Methodist Episcopal Church. Small prizes will be awarded and the correct responses will be published in the Christian Recorder or in one of the other periodicals of the AME Church as appropriate.
Some Questions will be open to all. At other times there will be question categories, e.g., adults, seminarians and applicants for ministry who are going through the Conference Course of Study, college age young adults to age 22 and high school and middle school students. Respondents in all categories are asked to provide his or her home mailing address with his or her response; and your age category and where you attend school and church.
The first person to answer correctly will be declared the winner. Email your answers to: chsydnor@bellsouth.net .
If you don’t have a computer, you may send responses from your local Library or local church if they have Internet access.
Today, we are going to ask a question in each category.
High School Middle School Question: Where was Bishop Allen born?
Complication:
In the book, “The Dogmas and Precepts of the Fathers” by Bishop Monroe H. Davis” on page 91, it says, “The founder of the African Methodism (Richard Allen) was born a slave in the State of Delaware. He purchased his freedom and moved to Philadelphia.”
In the book, “Life, Experience, Etc, of the Rt. Rev. Richard Allen,” it quotes Allen as saying, “I was born in the year of our Lord 1760, on February 14th a slave to Benjamin Chew, of Philadelphia. My mother and father and four children of us were sold into Delaware State, near Dover”
You may research the question in the library; or ask your pastor or an adult leader in your church to help you answer the question correctly.
Prize: One-year subscription to the AME periodical of your choice.
College age young adult question: Who were the “Four Horsemen” of the African Methodist Episcopal Church? Write a brief synopsis of each of their ministries.
Prize: One-year subscription to The A.M.E. Church Review.
Question for seminarians and applicants for ministry who are going through the Conference Course of Study: Which bishop never held an annual conference, nor ordained a minister; but continued to minister like other ministers. He was the only bishop to resign?
Prize: One-year subscription to the AME periodical of your choice.
Dr. Dennis Dickerson, AME Church Historiographer, will be the final arbiter of the responses received.
3. MEMORANDUM FROM DR. DARRYL INGRAM, SECRETARY-TREASURER, DEPARTMENT OF CHRISTIAN EDUCATION:
The Bishops’ Council of the AME Church has instituted a Quadrennial Focus that will guide and shape the programmatic agenda for the Church. All departments and connectional organizations are requested to use the annual themes in planning their activities, especially the teaching moments. The Christian Education Department will be the lead agency in guiding the process.
The focus is based on John 10:10b; “… I came so everyone would have life, and have it in its fullest.” (Contemporary English Version)
The themes are as follows:
June 2005-May 2006 “Living Well”
June 2006-May 2007 “Serving Well”
June 2007-May 2008 “Managing Well”
June 2008-May 2009 “Ending or Finishing Well”
The focus begins officially June 1, 2005 with “Living Well.”
Editor’s Comment: “Spread the word!
4. "THE DOGMAS AND PRECEPTS OF THE FATHERS" WRITTEN BY BISHOP MONROE H. DAVIS:
The Reverend Dr. Darryl Ingram, Secretary-Treasurer, Department of Christian Education, after much begging and cajoling, let me borrow his book, "The Dogmas and Precepts of the Fathers" written by Bishop Monroe H. Davis. I had never seen the book before yesterday. I understand that Dr. Jamye Coleman Williams won’t even let anyone borrow her copy. I can understand why. This book is “loaded” with AME history, polity and doctrine.
I am willing to pay $25 if anyone has a copy that they want to sell. I need my own book that I can mark up and I know that Dr. Ingram does not want me to mark in his book. I need a copy of this book!
5. CHANGE IN THE MEETING PLACE OF THE LOS ANGELES MINISTERIAL ALLIANCE:
The Ministerial Alliance Meeting for March 1, 2005, shall not be at the Ward A. M. E. Church. They have a funeral that will prevent us from having our meeting there.
Our March 1st, meeting will take place at Grant A. M. E. Church, 10435 South Central Avenue. Los Angeles, California. We shall meet in the Fellowship Hall of the church. Phone number is 323-564-1151. Our meeting shall begin at 10:30 a.m. A wonderful Brunch/Lunch shall be served as well. Please be present and on time. Our major agenda item shall be getting ready for our Good Friday Services, March 25th 12:00 noon, at First A. M. E. Los Angeles.
Grace and Power
Pastor Leslie R. White
President of the Los Angeles & Vicinity A. M. E. Ministerial Alliance.
6. BEREAVEMENT NOTICE - NINTH EPISCOPAL DISTRICT:
We announce the passing of Mr. Warren G. Kirkland, brother of Bishop T. Larry Kirkland, Presiding Bishop of the Ninth Episcopal District. Homegoing Services are scheduled for 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, February 26, 2005 at:
Turrentine-Jackson-Morrow Ridgeview Memorial Park, Inc.
Hwy 75, Exit 38 Ridgeview Drive
(P.O. Box 1007)
McKinney, Texas 75070-1007
Messages may be sent to:
Bishop & Mrs. T. Larry Kirkland & Family
2120 Park Brook Lane
Birmingham, AL 35215
Mrs. Idella Kirkland & Family
3405 Woodson Drive
McKinney, TX 75070
Please remember the family in your prayers.
God Bless!
7. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
Regretfully we share news of the passing of Rev. James M. Harris, a former pastor in the Tennessee Conference.
The home going service for Rev. James M. Harris:
Friday, February 25, 2005
Visitation @ 11:00 a.m.
The funeral to follow @ 12 noon
St. Paul A.M.E. Church
3340 W. Hamilton Avenue
Nashville, TN 37218
(615) 876-7219 (phone)
Rev. Harold Love, Pastor
Services are being provided by:
Holmes Funeral Home
1408 Jo Johnston Avenue
Nashville, TN 37203
(615) 329-2462 (phone)
(6150 329-2526 (fax)
Condolences can be sent to:
Mrs. Lillie Harris
730 Work Drive
Nashville, TN 37207
(615) 876-1067
Submitted by:
Genia Brown
8. ALL BEREAVEMENT ANNOUNCEMENTS SUBMITTED BY:
Ora L. Easley, President
CONN-M-SWAWO +PK'SEmail: Amespouses1@aol.com
Phone: (615) 837-9736
Fax: (615) 833-3781
Websites:
http://www.amemswwpk.org/
CONN-M-SWAWO + P.K.'S Home Page
http://connmswawo3.com/
AME Church Clergy Family Forum
http://connmswawo3.com/membership.html
CONN-M-SWAWO + P.K.'S Membership Listing
The Reverend Dr. Johnny Barbour, Jr., Publisher
The Reverend Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III, Editor
1. THE EDITOR’S CORNER:
The winner is…! Dr. Bill Dickens who posed the question, shares his thoughts about who should be declared the winner:
“The correct year I was looking for was indeed 1904. I thought it was obvious that the original question implied Quadrennial General Conference and not Special Sessions.
Now, according to the Richard Allen Museum, Bishop David Henry Sims was the 55th elected and consecrated bishop (elected in 1932) and served 33 years. I'm confused by the reference to Sims name and the number of bishops expelled in 1946. Sims served well beyond 1946. Now it is true that Bishop Curry, the 60th elected and consecrated bishop, elected in 1940, served only 6 years. The end of his tenure on the bench coincides with the expulsion vote of 1946. Presiding Elder Williams makes an interesting case but it is in my opinion a noteworthy footnote, not a correct answer. Special Sessions are, by definition, not Quadrennial General Conferences. Bishop Sims was not expelled in 1946.
I vote to give the gift book to the subscriber who correctly identified the year as 1904.
However, in the true spirit of Christian collegiality we all benefited from Presiding Elder Williams’ timely entry. His contribution merits a "runner-up" award. If you have an extra copy of Bishop Nichols’ book pass it on to Reverend Williams.
Bro. Bill Dickens
Asst. District Church School Superintendent
Tallahassee District
Tallahassee, Florida
Editor’s Comment:
According to the Encyclopaedia of African Methodism compiled by Bishop R. R. Wright, page 19, Bishop D. H. Sims was indeed expelled at the extra session of the General Conference held in Little Rock, Arkansas.
We would appreciate If Dr. Dennis Dickerson, AME Church Historiographer or any other “historian” of African Methodism would clarify the issue of Bishop Sims’ tenure.
- Dr. Sydnor
I know I can't win the prize because I work in Bishop Vashti Murphy McKenzie’s office here at the AME Publishing House and I had the assistance of several General Officers; but I found the trivia question quite fascinating and it gave me an opportunity to study some AME History during Black History Month. Thank you.
The answer to the question of when was the last time we held a General Conference when no Bishops were elected was 1904. During the conference the delegates considered legislation, worshipped and elected/re-elected some General Officers. During his opening address at the 1904 Quadrennial General Conference, Bishop Cornelius T. Shaffer's recommended that the General Conference not elect any new Bishops because the Church had enough bishops to superintend the work of the Church; so no bishops were elected.
I would like to thank Dr. Dennis Dickerson for giving me access to and for reviewing the minutes of the 1904 General Conference with me.
Kindest Regards
The Rev. Tyronda Howse Burgess
Executive Aide to Bishop Vashti Murphy McKenzie
- Dear Editor Sydnor,
There is no doubt that Presiding Elder Sidney Williams is one of the sharpest minds in the Church, and has served on the General Board for 32 years. Since he answered the question, and provided the fine details surrounding the special session, he should be given the prize, hands down; I learned something, from his answer.
Valerie Gary Bell
General Board
2nd Episcopal District
- One of the responses received surmised that Presiding Elder Williams may have been present at the 1946 called session of the General Conference. Appended below is his response:
“My Father attended the called-session of the General Conference held in Little Rock. He was a true friend of Bishop Monroe H. Davis and stood with him faithfully. Dad was severely penalized for his fidelity to Bishop Davis. He was demoted and was reassigned from Mt. Moriah AME Church, Annapolis, Maryland to St. Paul AME Church, Newport News, Virginia. Another supporter of Bishop Davis, the Reverend J. E. Reese was reassigned from Bethel AME, Baltimore to Bethel AME Church, Hampton, Virginia. There were others who were punished also. The AME Church accepted negative actions of reprisal in those days. The Minister’s Bill of Rights was not a part of Church law at that time. Dad never regretted the price that he paid. He instilled in me that manhood requires a willingness to stand on principle and that no price is too high. It greatly affected my life. I was not thinking about ministry at that time. It was a seed sown that bore fruit many seasons later.
Forgive me for the personal reflection. I needed to revisit those moments of years ago.”
SWW
- The Winners:
Sister Delores Kennedy-Williams
5th Connectional President
Women’s Missionary Society,
African Methodist Episcopal Church.
The Reverend Dr. Sidney Williams,
Presiding Elder
The Richmond, Roanoke, Portsmouth District of the
Virginia Annual Conference
2. AME HISTORY
The Christian Recorder Online is instituting a question and answer forum, from time to time, in hopes of raising the awareness and knowledge of our constituency of the history of the African Methodist Episcopal Church. Small prizes will be awarded and the correct responses will be published in the Christian Recorder or in one of the other periodicals of the AME Church as appropriate.
Some Questions will be open to all. At other times there will be question categories, e.g., adults, seminarians and applicants for ministry who are going through the Conference Course of Study, college age young adults to age 22 and high school and middle school students. Respondents in all categories are asked to provide his or her home mailing address with his or her response; and your age category and where you attend school and church.
The first person to answer correctly will be declared the winner. Email your answers to: chsydnor@bellsouth.net .
If you don’t have a computer, you may send responses from your local Library or local church if they have Internet access.
Today, we are going to ask a question in each category.
High School Middle School Question: Where was Bishop Allen born?
Complication:
In the book, “The Dogmas and Precepts of the Fathers” by Bishop Monroe H. Davis” on page 91, it says, “The founder of the African Methodism (Richard Allen) was born a slave in the State of Delaware. He purchased his freedom and moved to Philadelphia.”
In the book, “Life, Experience, Etc, of the Rt. Rev. Richard Allen,” it quotes Allen as saying, “I was born in the year of our Lord 1760, on February 14th a slave to Benjamin Chew, of Philadelphia. My mother and father and four children of us were sold into Delaware State, near Dover”
You may research the question in the library; or ask your pastor or an adult leader in your church to help you answer the question correctly.
Prize: One-year subscription to the AME periodical of your choice.
College age young adult question: Who were the “Four Horsemen” of the African Methodist Episcopal Church? Write a brief synopsis of each of their ministries.
Prize: One-year subscription to The A.M.E. Church Review.
Question for seminarians and applicants for ministry who are going through the Conference Course of Study: Which bishop never held an annual conference, nor ordained a minister; but continued to minister like other ministers. He was the only bishop to resign?
Prize: One-year subscription to the AME periodical of your choice.
Dr. Dennis Dickerson, AME Church Historiographer, will be the final arbiter of the responses received.
3. MEMORANDUM FROM DR. DARRYL INGRAM, SECRETARY-TREASURER, DEPARTMENT OF CHRISTIAN EDUCATION:
The Bishops’ Council of the AME Church has instituted a Quadrennial Focus that will guide and shape the programmatic agenda for the Church. All departments and connectional organizations are requested to use the annual themes in planning their activities, especially the teaching moments. The Christian Education Department will be the lead agency in guiding the process.
The focus is based on John 10:10b; “… I came so everyone would have life, and have it in its fullest.” (Contemporary English Version)
The themes are as follows:
June 2005-May 2006 “Living Well”
June 2006-May 2007 “Serving Well”
June 2007-May 2008 “Managing Well”
June 2008-May 2009 “Ending or Finishing Well”
The focus begins officially June 1, 2005 with “Living Well.”
Editor’s Comment: “Spread the word!
4. "THE DOGMAS AND PRECEPTS OF THE FATHERS" WRITTEN BY BISHOP MONROE H. DAVIS:
The Reverend Dr. Darryl Ingram, Secretary-Treasurer, Department of Christian Education, after much begging and cajoling, let me borrow his book, "The Dogmas and Precepts of the Fathers" written by Bishop Monroe H. Davis. I had never seen the book before yesterday. I understand that Dr. Jamye Coleman Williams won’t even let anyone borrow her copy. I can understand why. This book is “loaded” with AME history, polity and doctrine.
I am willing to pay $25 if anyone has a copy that they want to sell. I need my own book that I can mark up and I know that Dr. Ingram does not want me to mark in his book. I need a copy of this book!
5. CHANGE IN THE MEETING PLACE OF THE LOS ANGELES MINISTERIAL ALLIANCE:
The Ministerial Alliance Meeting for March 1, 2005, shall not be at the Ward A. M. E. Church. They have a funeral that will prevent us from having our meeting there.
Our March 1st, meeting will take place at Grant A. M. E. Church, 10435 South Central Avenue. Los Angeles, California. We shall meet in the Fellowship Hall of the church. Phone number is 323-564-1151. Our meeting shall begin at 10:30 a.m. A wonderful Brunch/Lunch shall be served as well. Please be present and on time. Our major agenda item shall be getting ready for our Good Friday Services, March 25th 12:00 noon, at First A. M. E. Los Angeles.
Grace and Power
Pastor Leslie R. White
President of the Los Angeles & Vicinity A. M. E. Ministerial Alliance.
6. BEREAVEMENT NOTICE - NINTH EPISCOPAL DISTRICT:
We announce the passing of Mr. Warren G. Kirkland, brother of Bishop T. Larry Kirkland, Presiding Bishop of the Ninth Episcopal District. Homegoing Services are scheduled for 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, February 26, 2005 at:
Turrentine-Jackson-Morrow Ridgeview Memorial Park, Inc.
Hwy 75, Exit 38 Ridgeview Drive
(P.O. Box 1007)
McKinney, Texas 75070-1007
Messages may be sent to:
Bishop & Mrs. T. Larry Kirkland & Family
2120 Park Brook Lane
Birmingham, AL 35215
Mrs. Idella Kirkland & Family
3405 Woodson Drive
McKinney, TX 75070
Please remember the family in your prayers.
God Bless!
7. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
Regretfully we share news of the passing of Rev. James M. Harris, a former pastor in the Tennessee Conference.
The home going service for Rev. James M. Harris:
Friday, February 25, 2005
Visitation @ 11:00 a.m.
The funeral to follow @ 12 noon
St. Paul A.M.E. Church
3340 W. Hamilton Avenue
Nashville, TN 37218
(615) 876-7219 (phone)
Rev. Harold Love, Pastor
Services are being provided by:
Holmes Funeral Home
1408 Jo Johnston Avenue
Nashville, TN 37203
(615) 329-2462 (phone)
(6150 329-2526 (fax)
Condolences can be sent to:
Mrs. Lillie Harris
730 Work Drive
Nashville, TN 37207
(615) 876-1067
Submitted by:
Genia Brown
8. ALL BEREAVEMENT ANNOUNCEMENTS SUBMITTED BY:
Ora L. Easley, President
CONN-M-SWAWO +PK'SEmail: Amespouses1@aol.com
Phone: (615) 837-9736
Fax: (615) 833-3781
Websites:
http://www.amemswwpk.org/
CONN-M-SWAWO + P.K.'S Home Page
http://connmswawo3.com/
AME Church Clergy Family Forum
http://connmswawo3.com/membership.html
CONN-M-SWAWO + P.K.'S Membership Listing
2/23/2005
THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER ONLINE (2/23/05)
Bishop Gregory G. M. Ingram - Chair, Commission on Publications
The Reverend Dr. Johnny Barbour, Jr., Publisher
The Reverend Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III, Editor
I should have stated the question: "...the last Quadrennial General Conference...?"
Editor's Question: Should the Reverend Sidney W. Williams share the prize? Or should the person who answered the question with 1904 receive the prize?
1. PASTOR LESLIE WHITE WILL BE ONE YEAR OLDER AND THERE WILL BE A PARTY TO CELEBRATE:
Pastor Leslie White's birthday celebration will be held on Sunday, March 6, at: The Reef on the Water- 880 Harbor Scenic Dr. - Long Beach (directions will be provided). It will be held in the Garden Room (capacity, 150 persons). Those that plan to attend please RSVP to Cheryl Baylark ASAP! The cost is $35.00 per person. Cost does not include a gift. The menu will consist of: cheese & fresh fruit - house salad with raspberry vinaigrette. Choice of entree chicken chasseur or prime rib of beef (choice must be made in advance). Entrees will be served with rice, seasonal vegetables, dessert, rolls & butter, coffee or tea. Cost is inclusive of service charge and sales tax. Payment must be with cash or check (checks may to made out to Donald Scott). When responding, please let Cheryl know if you will be bringing a guest.
Grace and Peace,
Don Scott
2. BEREAVEMENT NOTICE - SEVENTH DISTRICT:
Regretfully we share the news of the passing of Mrs. Davidetta Padmore of Washington DC. Mrs. Padmore is the mother of the Reverend Rickey C. Dennis, Pastor of Saint James AME Church, Wando, SC. Funeral Services are scheduled for 9:00 am on Saturday, February 26 at:
Woodside United Methodist Church
900 Georgia Avenue
Silver Spring, Maryland S
ervices are being provided by:
Capitol Mortuary, Inc.
1425 Maryland Avenue,
NEWashington, DC
Phone: 202-399-6999
Fax: 202-388-1928
Condolences can be sent to
The Reverend Dennis at:
397 Springview Drive
Summerville, South Carolina 29483
Phone: 843-832-9343
P
lease remember the family in your prayers.
God Bless!
Ora L. Easley, President
CONN-M-SWAWO +PK'S
Email: Amespouses1@aol.com
Phone: (615) 837-9736
Fax: (615) 833-3781
WEB SITES
http://www.amemswwpk.org/
CONN-M-SWAWO + P.K.'S Home Page
http://connmswawo3.com/
AME Church Clergy Family Forum
http://connmswawo3.com/membership.html
CONN-M-SWAWO + P.K.'S Membership Listing
The Reverend Dr. Johnny Barbour, Jr., Publisher
The Reverend Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III, Editor
THE EDITOR'S CORNER:
The winner will be announced tomorrow. 1904 was the year when no bishops were elected and someone claimed that prize, but Presiding Elder Sidney Williams has issued a challenge and says the last time that a General Conference was held and no Bishop elected was in 1946. An extra session fo the General Conference was held in 1946 in Little Rock Arkansas. Bishops D. H. Sims and G. E Curry were expelled; and M. H. Davis was suspended until February 1947; and, no bishops were elected. Bishop Daves was reinstated in 1947.I should have stated the question: "...the last Quadrennial General Conference...?"
Editor's Question: Should the Reverend Sidney W. Williams share the prize? Or should the person who answered the question with 1904 receive the prize?
1. PASTOR LESLIE WHITE WILL BE ONE YEAR OLDER AND THERE WILL BE A PARTY TO CELEBRATE:
Pastor Leslie White's birthday celebration will be held on Sunday, March 6, at: The Reef on the Water- 880 Harbor Scenic Dr. - Long Beach (directions will be provided). It will be held in the Garden Room (capacity, 150 persons). Those that plan to attend please RSVP to Cheryl Baylark ASAP! The cost is $35.00 per person. Cost does not include a gift. The menu will consist of: cheese & fresh fruit - house salad with raspberry vinaigrette. Choice of entree chicken chasseur or prime rib of beef (choice must be made in advance). Entrees will be served with rice, seasonal vegetables, dessert, rolls & butter, coffee or tea. Cost is inclusive of service charge and sales tax. Payment must be with cash or check (checks may to made out to Donald Scott). When responding, please let Cheryl know if you will be bringing a guest.
Grace and Peace,
Don Scott
2. BEREAVEMENT NOTICE - SEVENTH DISTRICT:
Regretfully we share the news of the passing of Mrs. Davidetta Padmore of Washington DC. Mrs. Padmore is the mother of the Reverend Rickey C. Dennis, Pastor of Saint James AME Church, Wando, SC. Funeral Services are scheduled for 9:00 am on Saturday, February 26 at:
Woodside United Methodist Church
900 Georgia Avenue
Silver Spring, Maryland S
ervices are being provided by:
Capitol Mortuary, Inc.
1425 Maryland Avenue,
NEWashington, DC
Phone: 202-399-6999
Fax: 202-388-1928
Condolences can be sent to
The Reverend Dennis at:
397 Springview Drive
Summerville, South Carolina 29483
Phone: 843-832-9343
P
lease remember the family in your prayers.
God Bless!
Ora L. Easley, President
CONN-M-SWAWO +PK'S
Email: Amespouses1@aol.com
Phone: (615) 837-9736
Fax: (615) 833-3781
WEB SITES
http://www.amemswwpk.org/
CONN-M-SWAWO + P.K.'S Home Page
http://connmswawo3.com/
AME Church Clergy Family Forum
http://connmswawo3.com/membership.html
CONN-M-SWAWO + P.K.'S Membership Listing
2/22/2005
THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER ONLINE (2/21/05)
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. DR. BILL DICKENS THROWS OUT A TRIVIA QUESTION. THE FIRST PERSON WHO RESPONDS CORRECTLY WILL RECEIVE A PRIZE:
Dr. Sydnor -
I am greatly enjoying the online AME correspondence. I have an AME Trivia Question for your subscribers. Since AME History is black History I believe that it is a timely submission.
Here's the question.
When was the last General Conference held when there was no election of a Bishop(s)?
Briefly explain why this happened and tell us what the delegates did at that General Conference.
Subscribers can respond to the online Recorder: chsydnor@bellsouth.net
Bill DickensTallahassee, FL
Editor's comment:
The first person with the correct answer will receive a free copy of the book about Bishop D. Ward Nichols authored by Jeanette T. Johns, a retired librarian from Farmingdale, NY entitled, “The Upward Journey: A Centenarian's Chronicle” and will have their response printed in The Christian Recorder.
Bishops, General Officers and employees of the Sunday School Union may not participate in this trivia question.
2. THE NEW U.S. SECURITY ENVOY TO THE MIDDLE EAST, LIEUTENANT GENERAL WILLIAM (KIP) WARD IS AN AME:
Lieutenant General William E Ward ("Kip") is the new US security envoy to the Middle East. In that position, he will be the new security coordinator between Israelis and Palestinians.
Lieutenant General William Ward is a member of Falls Road A.M.E. Church, Baltimore, Maryland (Washington Conference). His late grandfather, the Reverend Joseph H. Cashen, was the pastor of Falls Road A.M.E. Church for over 32 years. His Mother, Mrs. Phylis Ward and other family members still attend our church. Lieutenant General William E Ward continues to support the various ministries of our church.
Gen Ward is a graduate of Morgan State University and received a master's degree in political science from Pennsylvania State University. He has taught at West Point and was the assistant commander of the 82d Airborne Division based at Fort Bragg, N.C., and later served as the commanding general of the 25th Infantry Division, based at Schofield Barracks, Hawaii. General Ward is a member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity.
In his position as U.S. Security envoy to the Middle East, Gen. Ward follows in the footsteps of, among others, four-star Marine Gen Anthony Zinni and former CIA director George Tenet.
Please lift him in prayer as he moves to this very difficult assignment in the Middle East.
The Rev. Arthur B. GloverPastor, Falls Road A.M.E. Church
The Reverend Dr. Johnny Barbour, Jr., Publisher
The Reverend Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III, Editor
1. DR. BILL DICKENS THROWS OUT A TRIVIA QUESTION. THE FIRST PERSON WHO RESPONDS CORRECTLY WILL RECEIVE A PRIZE:
Dr. Sydnor -
I am greatly enjoying the online AME correspondence. I have an AME Trivia Question for your subscribers. Since AME History is black History I believe that it is a timely submission.
Here's the question.
When was the last General Conference held when there was no election of a Bishop(s)?
Briefly explain why this happened and tell us what the delegates did at that General Conference.
Subscribers can respond to the online Recorder: chsydnor@bellsouth.net
Bill DickensTallahassee, FL
Editor's comment:
The first person with the correct answer will receive a free copy of the book about Bishop D. Ward Nichols authored by Jeanette T. Johns, a retired librarian from Farmingdale, NY entitled, “The Upward Journey: A Centenarian's Chronicle” and will have their response printed in The Christian Recorder.
Bishops, General Officers and employees of the Sunday School Union may not participate in this trivia question.
2. THE NEW U.S. SECURITY ENVOY TO THE MIDDLE EAST, LIEUTENANT GENERAL WILLIAM (KIP) WARD IS AN AME:
Lieutenant General William E Ward ("Kip") is the new US security envoy to the Middle East. In that position, he will be the new security coordinator between Israelis and Palestinians.
Lieutenant General William Ward is a member of Falls Road A.M.E. Church, Baltimore, Maryland (Washington Conference). His late grandfather, the Reverend Joseph H. Cashen, was the pastor of Falls Road A.M.E. Church for over 32 years. His Mother, Mrs. Phylis Ward and other family members still attend our church. Lieutenant General William E Ward continues to support the various ministries of our church.
Gen Ward is a graduate of Morgan State University and received a master's degree in political science from Pennsylvania State University. He has taught at West Point and was the assistant commander of the 82d Airborne Division based at Fort Bragg, N.C., and later served as the commanding general of the 25th Infantry Division, based at Schofield Barracks, Hawaii. General Ward is a member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity.
In his position as U.S. Security envoy to the Middle East, Gen. Ward follows in the footsteps of, among others, four-star Marine Gen Anthony Zinni and former CIA director George Tenet.
Please lift him in prayer as he moves to this very difficult assignment in the Middle East.
The Rev. Arthur B. GloverPastor, Falls Road A.M.E. Church
2/21/2005
THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER ONLINE (2/20/05)
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 REPLY FROM THE REVEREND DR. GERALD A. COOPER CONCERNING THE TERM, “POSITIVE LAW”:
Dear Dr. Sydnor,
Despite the practicing attorney's unfamiliarity with the phrase, "positive law" is a legal term. She probably did not study the term in law school because it is not a term that requires study, nor is it a term that is or needs to be used very often. Many outstanding attorneys probably went through law school without ever using the term and find little or no use for it in practice. Nevertheless, Black's Law Dictionary, a standard legal resource, defines positive law as "Law actually and specifically enacted or adopted by proper authority for the government of an organized jural society." In other words, "positive law" is what many people would simply call "law."
While I have not had the need to use the term, I have often heard it used in AME circles. I have always taken the use of the term in the A.M.E. context as an attempt to distinguish law specifically set forth in the Discipline (i.e. positive law) from interpretations of the law and/or from A.M.E. traditions and practices that are not specifically set forth in the Discipline. Using the term in this manner is similar to using it in a legal context to distinguish legislation enacted by a legislative body from case law handed down by the courts. The phrase is probably unnecessary in most instances, but it is harmless so long as we have a common understanding of what we mean when we use it.
Peace,
Gerald A. Cooper (Esq.)
PastorSt. James A.M.E. Church
Cleveland, Ohio
Editor’s Reply:
Dr. Cooper –
Thank you so much for the clarification. What I failed to mention in my article was the statement by the lawyer and the Church representative was, as you stated, “positive law" is what many people would simply call "law."
Thank you for your response. I will certainly share your response with our readers.
2. REPLY FROM THE REVEREND CAROLE NELSON-INGRAM CONCERNING THE TERM, “POSITIVE LAW”:
Dr. Sydnor,
First - I love the work you are doing stimulating discussion on our "AME Ways!" Thanks.
I remember hearing the old timers speak of “Positive Law” and I am trying to remember if I ever saw it defined or if there was anything written about it anywhere. I hope that the voice of some of the elder-elders who may not get on the computer will find their way into this discussion.
I will listen to some of the hours of interview tapes I have with a couple of them who have gone to be with God to see if any of them have addressed this issue.
Thank you again, for touching upon some of the “untouchable subjects.”
Blessings,
The Rev. Carole Nelson-Ingram
3. OFFICIAL EPISCOPAL DISTRICT WEBSITES GIVEN TO ME OR THAT I COULD FIND ON THE INTERNET. SOME OF THEM NEED TO BE UPDATED. REQUEST ALL EPISCOPAL DISTRICTS REVIEW / SEND YOUR OFFICIAL WEB ADDRESS TO chsydnor@bellsouth.net :
Episcopal Districts:
1. http://www.firstdistrictame.com/html/district.htm
2. http://www.2ndamec.org/
3. Third District
4. Fourth District
5. Fifth District
6. Sixth District
7. http://www.amec3000.org/7th_District/
8. Eighth District -
9. Ninth District
10. Tenth District
11. Eleventh District
12. Twelfth District
13. Thirteenth District
14. Fourteenth District
15. http://www.amec3000.org/15th_district/
16. http://www.ame16th.com/
17. http://www.amec3000.org/17th_District/
18. Eighteenth District
19. http://www.amec3000.org/19th_District/
20. Twentieth District
4. SOME OF YOU ARE RECEIVING GIBBERISH IN YOUR CHRISTIAN RECORDER EMAIL MESSAGES. A MESSAGE FROM THE WEBMASTER:
The problem is in the Encoding Setting of each person's E-Mail Client. If one is using Microsoft Outlook do this: Click on View -> Encoding and select Unicode (UT-8).
If Unicode (UT-8) is not visible when Encoding is selected, select More and the options will be expanded.
If you are using any other mail client, do whatever it takes to set your Encoding to Unicode (UT-8).
If the instructions above seem too complicated, go to
http://www.the-christian-recorder.org/tcr-online/ and read The Christian Recorder.
5. LETTER TO THE EDITOR:
Re: "Giving Our Best to the Rural Churches" by Rev. Dr. La Sure: I would, as a lay person, like to remark that many in the clergy have egos that make them resentful of even being given an appointment to a small church in an urban setting, to say nothing of being assigned to a rural church.
I am in agreement with the premise of your remarks in general, but I am, unfortunately, thinking of examples I have seen of clergy who don't do such a bang-up job in "the city"; and the rural church would probably not be given any better care.
This subject has many ramifications that are not easily answered, but you are imminently correct.
Joann K. Blake
Cincinnati, Ohio
6. A MEDITATION: "GOING FORWARD WITH GOD: UNITY OF THE BODY":
Submitted by the Reverend James M. Moody, Sr.
The body is a unit, though it is made up of many parts; and though all its parts are many, they form one body. So it is with Christ. For we were all baptized by one Spirit into one body – whether Jews or Greeks, slave or free – and we were all given the one Spirit to drink. (I Corinthians 12: 12-13)
The Church is the body of Jesus Christ in the world today. The Church is a single unit made up of many different parts. The concept of a unit is one of binding together many parts to make one whole. The Church as a unified, living entity is the binding together of all denominations and “non-denominations,” individual congregations, ministries and auxiliaries within a congregation, and individuals who are recipients of the saving grace of God through faith in Jesus Christ (Ephesians 2: 8).
This is the Church – many coming together as one. The Holy Spirit is the glue that binds the Church together. Through the baptism of the Holy Spirit, we are all unified, as He erases all the false and insignificant distinctions that would divide the body of Christ.
Galatians 3: 26-28 tells us “all of you who were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ.” The Holy Spirit through Paul tells us we are all then children of God and all distinctions are removed. The imagery given here is that of everyone wearing the same uniform
– Jesus Christ.
Many of us have seen school children all dressed in the same uniform as they make their way to school. The wearing of uniforms facilitates unity in the process. Social and economic distinctions are removed. Everyone is the same. There is more opportunity to focus on the common mission of all involved. Doors of cooperation and efficacy are opened. Conflicts are avoided. Students can be more confident allowing for broader and effective participation.
What a picture of the Church, the body of Christ as we clothe ourselves with Christ. Social and economic distinctions are removed. Everyone is the same. There is more opportunity to focus on the common mission of all involved. Doors of cooperation and efficacy are opened. Conflicts are avoided. Members can be more confident allowing for broader and effective participation.
Ephesians 4: 1-3 & 11-13 gives us God’s directives on maintaining unity in the body of Christ.
1. v. 1 - Live each day and address every circumstance in a manner worthy of the name of Jesus Christ. “We are Christ’s ambassadors, as though God were making His appeal through us. (II Corinthians 5: 20)
2. v. 2a – Conduct ourselves in a humble and gentle manner, recognizing that our own righteousness is but “filthy rags” in His sight, and our boast is in Christ Jesus alone.
3. v. 2b – Be patient and willing to shoulder the weight of each other’s failings, shortcomings, and burdens. “But God demonstrates His own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us. (Romans 5:8)”
4. v. 3 - Work to keep peace in the body of Christ. Peace is not the absence of disagreement or differences in perspective; it is maintaining the character and identity of Christ in the midst of disagreement or differences in perspective.
5. v. 11-12 – Submit to the authority of the spiritual offices established by God for His Church. Those who function as apostles (sent ones), prophets, evangelists, and pastor/teachers have been placed by the Father throughout the body of Christ as lay and clergy and empowered by the Holy Spirit to prepare God’s people for the work of the Church.
As we seek to fulfill God’s directives we will “be built up until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ. From Him the whole body, joined and held together by every supporting ligament, grows and builds itself up in love, as each part does its work.” (Ephesians 4: 13, 16)
The Reverend James M. Moody, Sr. serves as Senior Pastor of Quinn Chapel AME Church, Chicago, Illinois
7. A BIT OF HUMOR, ENTITLED, “JUDGE NOT” SHARED BY THE REVEREND GREGORY NETTLES. IT HAS A GREAT PREACHING POINT:
I was shocked, confused, bewildered as I entered Heaven's door, Not by the beauty of it all, by the lights or its decor.
But it was the folks in Heaven who made me sputter and gasp-- The thieves, the liars, the sinners, the alcoholics, the trash.
There stood the kid from seventh grade who swiped my lunch money twice. Next to him was my old neighbor who never said anything nice.
Herb, who I always thought was rotting away in hell, Was sitting pretty on cloud nine, looking incredibly well.
I nudged Jesus, "What's the deal? I would love to hear Your take. How'd all these sinners get up here? God must've made a mistake.
And why's everyone so quiet, so somber? "Give me a clue."
"Hush, child," said He.
"They're all in shock. No one thought they'd see you."
(Author unknown)
The Reverend Dr. Johnny Barbour, Jr., Publisher
The Reverend Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III, Editor
1. A REPLY FROM THE REVEREND DR. GERALD A. COOPER CONCERNING THE TERM, “POSITIVE LAW”:
Dear Dr. Sydnor,
Despite the practicing attorney's unfamiliarity with the phrase, "positive law" is a legal term. She probably did not study the term in law school because it is not a term that requires study, nor is it a term that is or needs to be used very often. Many outstanding attorneys probably went through law school without ever using the term and find little or no use for it in practice. Nevertheless, Black's Law Dictionary, a standard legal resource, defines positive law as "Law actually and specifically enacted or adopted by proper authority for the government of an organized jural society." In other words, "positive law" is what many people would simply call "law."
While I have not had the need to use the term, I have often heard it used in AME circles. I have always taken the use of the term in the A.M.E. context as an attempt to distinguish law specifically set forth in the Discipline (i.e. positive law) from interpretations of the law and/or from A.M.E. traditions and practices that are not specifically set forth in the Discipline. Using the term in this manner is similar to using it in a legal context to distinguish legislation enacted by a legislative body from case law handed down by the courts. The phrase is probably unnecessary in most instances, but it is harmless so long as we have a common understanding of what we mean when we use it.
Peace,
Gerald A. Cooper (Esq.)
PastorSt. James A.M.E. Church
Cleveland, Ohio
Editor’s Reply:
Dr. Cooper –
Thank you so much for the clarification. What I failed to mention in my article was the statement by the lawyer and the Church representative was, as you stated, “positive law" is what many people would simply call "law."
Thank you for your response. I will certainly share your response with our readers.
2. REPLY FROM THE REVEREND CAROLE NELSON-INGRAM CONCERNING THE TERM, “POSITIVE LAW”:
Dr. Sydnor,
First - I love the work you are doing stimulating discussion on our "AME Ways!" Thanks.
I remember hearing the old timers speak of “Positive Law” and I am trying to remember if I ever saw it defined or if there was anything written about it anywhere. I hope that the voice of some of the elder-elders who may not get on the computer will find their way into this discussion.
I will listen to some of the hours of interview tapes I have with a couple of them who have gone to be with God to see if any of them have addressed this issue.
Thank you again, for touching upon some of the “untouchable subjects.”
Blessings,
The Rev. Carole Nelson-Ingram
3. OFFICIAL EPISCOPAL DISTRICT WEBSITES GIVEN TO ME OR THAT I COULD FIND ON THE INTERNET. SOME OF THEM NEED TO BE UPDATED. REQUEST ALL EPISCOPAL DISTRICTS REVIEW / SEND YOUR OFFICIAL WEB ADDRESS TO chsydnor@bellsouth.net :
Episcopal Districts:
1. http://www.firstdistrictame.com/html/district.htm
2. http://www.2ndamec.org/
3. Third District
4. Fourth District
5. Fifth District
6. Sixth District
7. http://www.amec3000.org/7th_District/
8. Eighth District -
9. Ninth District
10. Tenth District
11. Eleventh District
12. Twelfth District
13. Thirteenth District
14. Fourteenth District
15. http://www.amec3000.org/15th_district/
16. http://www.ame16th.com/
17. http://www.amec3000.org/17th_District/
18. Eighteenth District
19. http://www.amec3000.org/19th_District/
20. Twentieth District
4. SOME OF YOU ARE RECEIVING GIBBERISH IN YOUR CHRISTIAN RECORDER EMAIL MESSAGES. A MESSAGE FROM THE WEBMASTER:
The problem is in the Encoding Setting of each person's E-Mail Client. If one is using Microsoft Outlook do this: Click on View -> Encoding and select Unicode (UT-8).
If Unicode (UT-8) is not visible when Encoding is selected, select More and the options will be expanded.
If you are using any other mail client, do whatever it takes to set your Encoding to Unicode (UT-8).
If the instructions above seem too complicated, go to
http://www.the-christian-recorder.org/tcr-online/ and read The Christian Recorder.
5. LETTER TO THE EDITOR:
Re: "Giving Our Best to the Rural Churches" by Rev. Dr. La Sure: I would, as a lay person, like to remark that many in the clergy have egos that make them resentful of even being given an appointment to a small church in an urban setting, to say nothing of being assigned to a rural church.
I am in agreement with the premise of your remarks in general, but I am, unfortunately, thinking of examples I have seen of clergy who don't do such a bang-up job in "the city"; and the rural church would probably not be given any better care.
This subject has many ramifications that are not easily answered, but you are imminently correct.
Joann K. Blake
Cincinnati, Ohio
6. A MEDITATION: "GOING FORWARD WITH GOD: UNITY OF THE BODY":
Submitted by the Reverend James M. Moody, Sr.
The body is a unit, though it is made up of many parts; and though all its parts are many, they form one body. So it is with Christ. For we were all baptized by one Spirit into one body – whether Jews or Greeks, slave or free – and we were all given the one Spirit to drink. (I Corinthians 12: 12-13)
The Church is the body of Jesus Christ in the world today. The Church is a single unit made up of many different parts. The concept of a unit is one of binding together many parts to make one whole. The Church as a unified, living entity is the binding together of all denominations and “non-denominations,” individual congregations, ministries and auxiliaries within a congregation, and individuals who are recipients of the saving grace of God through faith in Jesus Christ (Ephesians 2: 8).
This is the Church – many coming together as one. The Holy Spirit is the glue that binds the Church together. Through the baptism of the Holy Spirit, we are all unified, as He erases all the false and insignificant distinctions that would divide the body of Christ.
Galatians 3: 26-28 tells us “all of you who were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ.” The Holy Spirit through Paul tells us we are all then children of God and all distinctions are removed. The imagery given here is that of everyone wearing the same uniform
– Jesus Christ.
Many of us have seen school children all dressed in the same uniform as they make their way to school. The wearing of uniforms facilitates unity in the process. Social and economic distinctions are removed. Everyone is the same. There is more opportunity to focus on the common mission of all involved. Doors of cooperation and efficacy are opened. Conflicts are avoided. Students can be more confident allowing for broader and effective participation.
What a picture of the Church, the body of Christ as we clothe ourselves with Christ. Social and economic distinctions are removed. Everyone is the same. There is more opportunity to focus on the common mission of all involved. Doors of cooperation and efficacy are opened. Conflicts are avoided. Members can be more confident allowing for broader and effective participation.
Ephesians 4: 1-3 & 11-13 gives us God’s directives on maintaining unity in the body of Christ.
1. v. 1 - Live each day and address every circumstance in a manner worthy of the name of Jesus Christ. “We are Christ’s ambassadors, as though God were making His appeal through us. (II Corinthians 5: 20)
2. v. 2a – Conduct ourselves in a humble and gentle manner, recognizing that our own righteousness is but “filthy rags” in His sight, and our boast is in Christ Jesus alone.
3. v. 2b – Be patient and willing to shoulder the weight of each other’s failings, shortcomings, and burdens. “But God demonstrates His own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us. (Romans 5:8)”
4. v. 3 - Work to keep peace in the body of Christ. Peace is not the absence of disagreement or differences in perspective; it is maintaining the character and identity of Christ in the midst of disagreement or differences in perspective.
5. v. 11-12 – Submit to the authority of the spiritual offices established by God for His Church. Those who function as apostles (sent ones), prophets, evangelists, and pastor/teachers have been placed by the Father throughout the body of Christ as lay and clergy and empowered by the Holy Spirit to prepare God’s people for the work of the Church.
As we seek to fulfill God’s directives we will “be built up until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ. From Him the whole body, joined and held together by every supporting ligament, grows and builds itself up in love, as each part does its work.” (Ephesians 4: 13, 16)
The Reverend James M. Moody, Sr. serves as Senior Pastor of Quinn Chapel AME Church, Chicago, Illinois
7. A BIT OF HUMOR, ENTITLED, “JUDGE NOT” SHARED BY THE REVEREND GREGORY NETTLES. IT HAS A GREAT PREACHING POINT:
I was shocked, confused, bewildered as I entered Heaven's door, Not by the beauty of it all, by the lights or its decor.
But it was the folks in Heaven who made me sputter and gasp-- The thieves, the liars, the sinners, the alcoholics, the trash.
There stood the kid from seventh grade who swiped my lunch money twice. Next to him was my old neighbor who never said anything nice.
Herb, who I always thought was rotting away in hell, Was sitting pretty on cloud nine, looking incredibly well.
I nudged Jesus, "What's the deal? I would love to hear Your take. How'd all these sinners get up here? God must've made a mistake.
And why's everyone so quiet, so somber? "Give me a clue."
"Hush, child," said He.
"They're all in shock. No one thought they'd see you."
(Author unknown)