THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER ONLINE (4/1/05)

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. AME CHURCH AWARDED $35 MILLION DOLLARS!

The African Methodist Episcopal Church was awarded $35 Million Dollars by the 5th Circuit Court of the United States. The largest Black Methodist body in the United States with churches all over the world was awarded the money for…

(Read the rest of the article in The Christian Recorder)

Editor’s comment: April Fool!!! There will be nothing in The Christian Recorder about this!


2. HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO DR. JOHNNY BARBOUR WHO IS 65 YEARS OLD TODAY!

3. THE EDITOR’S CORNER:

- Questions:

(1) Who was the first bishop of the African Methodist Episcopal Church who was born overseas?

(2) Who was the AME Bishop who established the Conference Course of Study?

Rules: Both questions must be answered and I must receive the correct answers to both questions by Midnight Saturday, April 2, 2005.

Prize: Free one-year subscription of any AME periodical

- Exegetical Question: The Gospel of John gives the account of the Wedding in Cana of Galilee where Jesus turned the water into wine. The account clearly gives the day of the week when the wedding was held. On which day of the week was the Wedding in Cana of Galilee held? Why was the wedding held on that particular day of the week? Give a short hermeneutical explanation about the day the week on which the wedding was held and how it relates to Jews today.

Rules: Same as above.

Prize: Any one book, excluding Bibles and commentaries sold in the AME Publishing House Bookstore.

4. CONSIDERING THREE HEALTH-RELATED LEGAL DOCUMENTS: "DNR", A PERSONAL EXPERIENCE

By Jeanette T. Johns, Bethel, Huntington, NY

The extraordinary media coverage given to the Terri Schiavo case has served the purpose of forcing us to focus on the importance of medical documents that all adults should consider creating immediately. No one has described this is as a pleasant experience; it's not one that we look forward to with great anticipation, but this case has educated us daily concerning such matters, and we need to allow ourselves to profit from that. Now, because of the legal complications of the era in which we live, the case of Terri Schiavo begs us to act thoughtfully and quickly. I have a living will AND a health proxy. Everyone should have these two documents to assist those who might have to make decisions for us if we become seriously ill or disabled. Also, there is one more important document that is recommended. It is a DNR (Do Not Resuscitate Order). This should also be carefully considered and put on paper, if desired.

However, this case reminded me of a very personal experience that I wish to share with you because I think it may provide some "food for thought." When I accompanied my husband, the Rev. Clarence B. Johns, Jr., to the Emergency Room of our local hospital on March 25, 2003, he was in great breathing distress. As I recall, the final report said he was breathing 3-4 times per minute when the normal rate is 20-something, or maybe it was 30-something. Anyway, he was in GREAT DANGER. An emergency room doctor asked me if he had a “DNR.” My immediate reaction: "No, please do EVERYTHING you can to save him!" Now, the truth of the matter is that he DID have a DNR, and I knew that. But, of course, the document was at home, housed safely in a special place. Perhaps his Primary Physician had a copy, as well. I'm not sure. But I KNEW my husband had a DNR. However, when I took my one and only husband of 51 years to the hospital and I was questioned about the existence of this particular document, my immediate reaction was to say, "NO!" and that's where the matter rested. I didn't think I was lying. Truthfully, under the set of circumstances that I was facing at that particular moment, I simply didn't think. I just knew that if I had said "Yes", that would have meant one thing. I didn't know exactly what. But I knew that if I said, "NO!" that would mean the way was clear to make all efforts to save him. That was as much thinking as I could handle.

My point is that a DNR, though carefully attended to far in advance, meant absolutely nothing in an emergency situation where doctors had to depend on my answer, as a distraught wife. My only wish was for that well-prepared crew of doctors and medical staff to SAVE my husband's life! I've often thought of that moment and how God took care of the whole thing in the final analysis. My husband died less than 24 hours later because God knew best.

But isn't that a matter for some serious thought as we prepare the legal documents necessary for the age in which we live? I believe that it is!

5. DEVOTIONAL: GOING FORWARD WITH GOD - OPERATING IN HIS PURPOSE:

6Then one of the seraphs flew to me with a live coal in his hand. 7With it he touched my mouth and said, “See, this has touched your lips; your guilt is taken away and your sin atoned for.” 8Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, “Whom shall I send? And who will go for us?” And I said, “Here am I. Send me!” Isaiah 6:6-8

“What am I supposed to be doing as a member of the body of Christ?” This is a question that is frequently on the minds of believers. An examination of the prophet Isaiah’s interaction with the Lord can help us to address the question of one’s purpose.
When Isaiah heard the call of God, Isaiah chose simply to operate in God’s purpose, not his own. Isaiah had no indication of what God would ask of him, until he said yes to God. Operating in God’s purpose is allowing the Holy Spirit to have His way in me so His purposes are fulfilled through my life. The Holy Spirit is constantly at work in the life of every believer and throughout the church. The Holy Spirit has been sent to fulfill through us everything Christ said to us (John 14: 25-26).

So, what about God’s call in my life? Isaiah tells us he heard the voice of the Lord saying, “Whom shall I send? And who will go for us?” (v. 8) There is no one in particular to whom the call of God went. Also, this wasn't necessarily the first call from God. The call of God goes constantly out to His entire body. Isaiah simply describes when he finally heard the call of God for himself.

Whether I hear the call; how I hear the call; and how I respond to the call depends on the condition of my heart. Isaiah recognized his own need to have his guilt taken away and his sin atoned for. The seraph touched Isaiah’s lips with coals to cleanse them. Isaiah heard the call of God only after he had been brought into a proper relationship with God.

My sister-in-law laughs at me because of my practice of whistling to call my cat home. She says, “I've never heard of someone whistling to call a cat. That’s something that should only work with dogs. Why does the cat come when you whistle?” she asked. “Cats don't respond to whistling!”

I replied, “Yes. You're right. Cats don't respond when I whistle; only my cat responds. She doesn't respond to my whistling just because she’s a cat. If that was the case there would be lots of cats responding who are not mine. My cat responds because of our relationship.” Jesus said, “My sheep hear my voice (John 10: 1-5).”

To know the call of God on our lives we must be in a proper relationship with God. We must first know the cleansing of salvation through the finished work of Jesus Christ (John 15: 3). Second, we must submit to sanctification through baptism in the Holy Spirit (Acts 1: 5). Last, as we seek God’s face (relationship with God on His terms; His terms are stern but glorious), the Holy Spirit transforms all of our life’s experiences applying them to His purposes (Isaiah 6: 5-7). It is then that we, like Isaiah, find our lives operating in His purpose.

Pastor James Moody

6. CHRIST OUR REDEEMER A.M.E. CHURCH WILL CELEBRATE ITS 15TH CHURCH ANNIVERSARY:

It is with jubilation that we, the members of Christ Our Redeemer, 13820 Old Jamestown Road, Black Jack, Missouri 63033, (telephone: 314.741.4222) announces the celebration of its 15th Church Anniversary. God is truly blessing our church. Through God’s grace, we have been able to reach yet another milestone in service to Him. Although we praise God for His many blessings daily, the weekend of April 22, 2005 has been set aside for a special celebration of high praise. The Reverend Edmund E. Lowe, Sr. is the senior pastor. For more information call or write the church.

Submitted by Sister Ella Coe, Anniversary Chair

THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER ONLINE (3/31/05)

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 SEVENTEENTH EPISCOPAL DISTRICT OF THE AFRICAN METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH 2005 - 2006 SCHEDULE OF ANNUAL CONFERENCES AND OTHER EPISCOPAL DISTRICT MEETINGS:

Theme: “Empowered To Serve”

CHRISTIAN EDUCATION CONGRESS
April 24-28, 2005
Northern Technical College
The Rev. Ida Simukwai, Host Pastor
The Rev. L. Chola, Host Presiding Elder

NORTH EAST ZAMBIA ANNUAL CONFERENCE
August 4-7, 2005
Bonner Chapel AME Church - Mbala
The Rev. C. Silupya, Host Pastor
The Rev. C Silupya, Host Presiding Elder

NORTH WEST ZAMBIA ANNUAL CONFERENCE
August 11-14, 2005
Nchelenge AME Church - Nchelenge
The Rev. P. Mwila, Host Pastor
The Rev. J. M. Chiwele, Host Presiding Elder

SOUTH EAST ZAMBIA ANNUAL CONFERENCE
August 25-28, 2005
Bethel AME Church - Chipata
The Rev. C. Saizamba, Host Pastor
The Rev. LD Zulu, Host Presiding Elder


ZAMBEZI ANNUAL CONFERENCE
September 8-11, 2005
Allen Temple AME Church - Solwezi
The Rev. D. Sakwai, Host Pastor
The Rev. D. Kapepa, Host Presiding Elder

SOUTH WEST ZAMBIA ANNUAL CONFERENCE
September 15-18, 2005
Bright Chapel AME Church - Kitwe,
The Rev. A. Mulapwa, Host Pastor
The Rev. HC Alimasi, Host Presiding Elder

DISTRICT PLANNING MEETING
December 15-17, 2005
Quinn Chapel
The Rev. W. Walima, Host Pastor
The Rev. M.P.P. Mwenya Host Presiding Elder

KINSHASA ANNUAL CONFERENCE
February 20-23, 2006
Les saints de Dieu AME Church
The Rev. Caleb Ilunga, Host Pastor
The Rev. Andre Mputu: Host Presiding Elder

CONGO BRAZZAVILLE ANNUAL CONFERENCE
February 24-26, 2006
Katubwe AME Church
The Rev. M. Kande: Host Pastor
The Rev. B. N. Floribert: Host Presiding Elder

TSHIKAPA ANNUAL CONFERENCE
February 28-2, March 2006
Berrees AME Church
The Rev. M. Gamaliel, Host Pastor
The Rev. H. Mudipanu, Host Presiding Elder

KANANGA ANNUAL CONFERENCE
March 4-6, 2206
Christ Notre Paix
The Rev. DM. Kasonga Host Pastor
The Rev. G. Muana Host Presiding Elder

MBUJI-MAYI ANNUAL CONFERENCE
March 9-11, 2006
Source Du Saut, Host AME Church
The Rev. K. Sombolayi, Host Pastor
The Rev. O Lutumba, Host Presiding Elder

KATANGA ANNUAL CONFERENCE
March 13-15, 2006
Sinai AME Church
The Rev. M. Waseya, Host Pastor
The Rev. T. Kafand, Host Presiding Elder

RURUNDI ANNUAL CONFERENCE
March 23-25, 2006
Bujumbura AME Church
The Rev. Charlotte Nindorera, Host Pastor; the Rev. Marc Nzikobari,
Host presiding Elder

RWANDA ANNUAL CONFERENCE
March 27-29, 2006
Caramel AME Church
The Rev. M. J. De Dieu, Host Pastor
The Rev. F. Uwamahoro, Host Presiding Elder

2. UPDATED SERVICE ARRANGEMENTS FOR THE FATHER OF DR. PAM DEVEAUX:

A memorial service will be held for Mr. Jesse Morris, 98 year old father of Dr. Pam DeVeaux, and father-in-law of Bishop William P. DeVeaux, on Friday, April 1, 2005, at 11 a.m. at:

People's Independent Church of Christ
5856 West Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90043
(323) 296-5776 Phone
(323) 296-3371

Fax Flowers may be sent to the church for the service. Donations will be given to Mr. Morris' church.

Condolences may be sent to:
People's Independent Church of Christ
5856 West Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90043
(323) 296-5776 Phone
(323) 296-3371 Fax

Pastor William A. Naylor

or expressions may be sent to:
Bishop William P. & Dr. Pam DeVeaux
402 Oak Brook Ct.
Smyrna, GA 30082

or to:

6th Episcopal District AME Church
2900 Chamblee-Tucker Road
Building 3
Atlanta, GA 30341-4156

770-220-1770 - Phone
770-220-9996 – FAX

3. THE HOMEGOING SERVICE FOR THE NIECE OF THE REVEREND KEITH OGDEN WILL BE ON MONDAY @ 11:00 AM:

The cause of death was a misdiagnose blood clot in her foot!

First Baptist Church of Mandarin
3990 Loretto Rd.
Jacksonville, FL 32223
ph: (904) 268-2422
fax: (904) 268-5321

Please be in prayer for my brother and sister-in-law, Alfred and Shirley Ogden, my niece (Taneita) passed away on last evening, she was 31.

Alfred and Shiley Ogden
8768 Falcon Trace Drive
Jacksonville, FL 32222

Keith A. Ogden, Pastor
135 Hill Street
Asheville, NC 28801

(828) 254-4646 Office
(828) 350-8025 Direct Line
(828) 242-8357 Mobilehttp://www.hillstreetbaptistchurch.org/


4. MAINLINE PROTESTANT CHURCHES NO LONGER DOMINATE NCC YEARBOOK'S LIST OF TOP 25 U.S. RELIGIOUS BODIES:

March 30, New York -- Pentecostal and historic African American churches are increasingly visible on the U.S. religious landscape and mainline Protestants no longer dominate a list of the 25 largest American churches, reports the National Council of Churches' 2005 "Yearbook of American & Canadian Churches."

Three of the largest 25 churches in the U.S. are Pentecostal and six are African American, the yearbook reports.

The list includes the rapidly growing Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, the Greek Orthodox Church, the Orthodox Church in America, Jehovah's Witnesses, and -largest of all - the Roman Catholic Church.

"The Yearbook of American and Canadian Churches" is edited by the Rev. Dr. Eileen W. Lindner, NCC Deputy General Secretary for Research and Planning, and published by Abingdon Press, Nashville, Tenn.

Included in the $50 cost of the print edition is a year's subscription to the "Yearbook Online," featuring regularly updated searchable data, accessible from any computer with Web access.

Now in its 73rd year of publication, the "2005 Yearbook" may be ordered online at http://www.blogger.com/www.electronicchurch.org. The yearbook also may be ordered through local bookstores or from Cokesbury, which is offering a 10 percent discount.

The Catholic Church remains the largest faith group in the U.S. with 67,259,768 members and a growth rate last year of 1.28 percent. The second largest denomination in the U.S. is still the Southern Baptist Convention with 16,439,603 members and a growth rate of 1.18 percent. The United Methodist Church is third largest with a reported membership of 8,251,175 and a growth rate of .002 percent.

The Church of Jesus of Latter-day Saints, with a reported membership of 5,503,192, rose from the fifth to the fourth largest church in the U.S. The yearbook noted that the church "continues to grow remarkably" at a rate of 1.71 percent last year.

A reported surge in membership of the Orthodox Church in America (OCA) has placed the communion on the list of the largest American churches. The Syosset, N.Y., based church grew 11.11 percent to 1-million members, according to the yearbook.

Other churches in the top 25 that continued to grow in 2004 are the Assemblies of God, 2,729,562 members and a growth rate of 1.57 percent; the Episcopal Church, 2,320,221 members and a growth rate of .57 percent; the African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church, 1,432,795 members and a growth rate of .14 percent; and Jehovah's Witnesses, 1,041,030 members and a growth rate of 1.82 percent.

Churches that declined in membership in 2004 are the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, 4,984,925 members, down 1.05 percent; the Presbyterian Church (USA), 3,241,309 members, down 4.87 percent; The Lutheran Church (Missouri Synod), 2,488,936 members, down .95 percent); American Baptist Churches in the USA, 1,433,075 members, down 3.45 percent; and the United Church of Christ, 1,296,652 members, down 2.58 percent.

The data is gathered by the churches in 2003 and reported to the yearbook in 2004.

The 2005 Yearbook reports on 217 national church bodies with 150 million members in the U.S. Reports include brief church histories and contact information for church leaders. The yearbook also analyzes the financial data from 63 churches representing almost 50 million members and more than $32 billion.

Mission Trends

Until 1968, the yearbook published statistical data of American home and foreign missionaries. That information has not been reported for 36 years, and editor Lindner decided to take a look at how mission has been faring.

In an article, "Whither Global Mission?" Lindner reported that mainline Protestants have increased their mission activity for the first time in a quarter century. That, combined with the still vigorous mission impulses of evangelical and Pentecostal churches, shows that American Christians are "attempting great things" in mission, Lindner said.

Mainline church agencies reported an increase of 600 missionaries over the number reported in 1966, Lindner noted, citing a January 2005 article in the International Bulletin of Missionary Research.

Agencies affiliated with the Interdenominational Foreign Mission Association gained about 1,400 missionaries since 1966, and agencies affiliated with the Evangelical Fellowship of Mission Agencies gained about 8,000 missionaries in the same period, the article said.

Of the estimated 6,453,628,000 persons on earth in mid-2005, about 33.1 percent consider themselves Christians. The percentage is expected to rise to 33.6 percent in 2025.

In mid-2005, most of the world's Christians - 1,118,992,000 - are Roman Catholics. Independents account for the next largest group of Christians (426,672,000), followed by Protestants (375,814,000), Orthodox (219,501,000), Anglicans (79,710,000) and "marginal Christians" (34,150,000).

Editor’s note: "The Yearbook of American and Canadian Churches" is a must resource for pastors’ library.

THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER ONLINE (3/30/05)

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 REVEREND WILLIAM F. SCRUGGS GIVEN THE LEGEND AWARD BY THE WILLIAMSON COUNTY-FRANKLIN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE:

The Reverend William F. Scruggs, retired Presiding Elder of the South Nashville District of the Thirteenth Episcopal District, was honored last night at a gala event attended by 500 persons. The event was held at the Marriott Hotel in Cool Springs, Tennessee. Reverend Scruggs was completely surprised by the award. The Chamber of Commerce made sure that he was going to be there by scheduling him to do the invocation. He and Mrs. Scruggs had no idea that he was going to be honored. The following was the award citation:

“The Reverend William F. Scruggs attended Franklin City Schools, Tennessee State University, Indiana University School of Religion, the Nashville School of law and Pearl Vocational School of Business.

In 1940, this man married Jessie Marie Patton. That same year he helped build the Tuskegee Army Flying School that produced the famous Tuskegee Airmen. A year later he was in the service of the United States Army, seeing duty in England, France, Belgium, Holland and Germany.

With World War II behind him, he launched a tireless devotion and dedication to the AME Churches, including Franklin’s Limestone Primitive Church and those he built in Nashville, Columbia, Murfreesboro, Waverly and Erin.

His life has been one of finding timed to address needs. In the effort to make classrooms open to children of all colors, he chaired the Civil Rights Committee for desegregation of schools in Franklin, and he helped promote the building of subdivisions for blacks in Franklin and Columbia. He was among the many who marched with Dr. Martin Luther King in Memphis.

This man’s strong character and sense of right and wrong have not gone without notice. In 1981, the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity named him Citizen of the Year, Business Minority Recognition Day honored him in 1995, and there was acclaim from the Jefferson Street United Merchants Partnership in 2003. He has been recognized by the Limestone Primitive Church, and a street in Rolling Meadows subdivision here in Franklin bears his name.

In 2004, he retired as AME Presiding Elder; however, he has continued to be an active person, and his concern for community, pride of country and service to God continue, along with his deep respect for family.

The Chamber has been honored by this man’s service on its board of directors and commends him for his contributions.

It is a pleasure to recognize the Reverend William F. Scruggs with this presentation of the “Legend Award.”

His wife Jessie and daughter Wilma are with him here tonight.”

Editor’s note: On behalf of the Bishop Gregory G. M. Ingram, Chair, Commission on Publications, the Reverend Dr. Johnny Barbour, Jr., Publisher, congratulations to the Reverend William F. Scruggs, retired Presiding Elder of the South Nashville District of the Thirteenth Episcopal District of the African Methodist Episcopal Church.

2. LETTERS TO THE EDITOR:

Dr. Sydnor:

I received my Christian Recorder this week. I need to impress upon you the importance of correcting the Judicial Council information. I am the President of this body. I am the voice of the Judicial Council. The Secretary is Rev. Franklin Breckenridge. All petitions are sent to him. Rev. Granville Reed, III is the Assistant Secretary. He also receives petitions on behalf of the Council. The manner in which you continue to list us is extremely misleading. Once again, I propose we be properly listed as follows:

Atty Patricia Mayberry-President
Atty Priscilla Green-Vice President
Rev. Franklin Breckenridge-Secretary
Rev. Granville Reed, III-Asst Secretary
Dr. J. B. Flowers-Treasurer
Rev. Leeomia Kelly-Chaplain
Atty Rosemarie Rhodes-Miller-Member
Atty Benjamin Edwards-Member
Rev. Vonciel Jones Hill-Member

Editor’s Comment: Your letter will help us to make the corrections.

- Dr. Sydnor, I have to let you know that your remarks on the Itinerancy were inspirational to say the very least. The challenge of leaving our comfort zones and going where we are sent takes a lot of faith. As one who feels the call to pastor, I needed that lift. Thank you for your words and your testimony. Also, thank you for the way in which you responded to the good bishop. Keep up the good work!

Blessings,

The Reverend Donald Garner

- Dear Editor Sydnor,

I commend you for taking the Christian approach to the Grace Ministries situation that has saddened my Zest to reach out to help others. This past week has transported tremendous light on the area of participation in ecumenical ministry.

I pray that The AME bishops, episcopal supervisors, general officers, presiding elders, elders, deacons, and the church-at-large realizes no AME elder in good standing and of high integrity of being children of the King as well as members of our Connectional church, would bring harm to our Church or themselves knowingly in any form or fashion.

As we transcend into broadening our horizons let us create larger channels of combinations to aid one another from stepping into questionable areas of ministry.

May God bless you in your great efforts to continue to create a positive avenue for us to communicate across the globe of Christian Brothers and Sister and African Methodism.

Sincerely,

TRS Concepts in Ministry
The Reverend Dr. Tonya R. Spellmon, D. Min

3. THE GLOBAL CORNER - A MESSAGE OF THANKS FROM THE REV. ROYD MWANDU, CHINGOLA, ZAMBIA, AFRICA:

Bishop Gregory G. M. Ingram - Chair, Commission on Publications
The Reverend Dr. Johnny Barbour, Jr., Publisher
The Reverend Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III, Editor

Praise God from whom all blessings flow! Allow me to disclose my sincere appreciation to the whole connectional AME Church for the kind generosity of Professor Bill Dickens, The Clergy and membership of Bethel AME Church in Tallahassee, Florida. Having made a public request on the online AME Today to USA based AME Churches to consider sending their second hand literature and material, Professor Bill Dickens responded by saying “consider it done.” He single handedly took it upon himself to mobilize material and never rested until he saw to it that my church was assisted. I am glad to inform you all that, yesterday, Tuesday, March 29, 2005, I had the honor of receiving a package by FEDEX weighing 25 lbs containing the following brand- new items for St Thomas AME Church:

- The Improved Adult Teacher Church School, Spring Quarter 2004. March, April May – Qty 20
- Junior Church School Quarterly, Spring Quarter 2004. March, April May – Qty 20
- Senior Church School Quarterly, Spring Quarter 2004. March, April May – Qty 20
- Sunday Church School T-Shirts – Qty 23

The T-Shirts will be given distributed to the St. Thomas AME Church School members to be used during the 2005 Annual Convention to be hosted by Quinn Chapel AME Church. I have forthwith decided to share by distributing the Sunday School booklets with all churches in my Presiding Elder’s District known as “Copper belt West.” This will be officially done at the seat of the forth coming District Conference to be held from April 14-16, 2005 to be hosted by Holy Temple AME Church, in Chingola Zambia. This will be the first time the whole PE district will use indigenous AME Church material for learning and teaching in Sunday Church School. My Presiding Elder, the Rev. M P P. Mwenya as well as my Bishop is the Rt. Rev Paul J M Kawimbe have been informed about this development and are excited about the whole plan. Apart from St Thomas AME Church, the following churches will benefit from this precious gift pack from Bethel AME Church in Tallahassee, Florida.

1) St Thomas AE Church – Rev. Royd Mwandu (Distributing)
2) Allen Temple AME Church – Rev. J Mwenyo
3) St Paul AME Church – Rev. Mwewa
4) Jordan AME Church – Rev. Kombe
5) Luansobe AME Church – Rev. Kombe
6) Chambishi AME Church – Rev. C Ilunga
7) Brookins AME Church – Rev. Amigo Mwansa
8) Quinn Chapel AME Church – Rev. W Walima
9) Kabundi AME Church – Rev. E Mwansa
10) Noah Temple AME Church – Rev. Mwaba
11) Emmanuel AME Church – Rev. J Lengwe
12) Holy Temple AME Church – Rev. J Lengwe

On behalf of St Thomas AME Church, I am glad to welcome Bethel AME Church in Tallahassee, Florida for joining a list of friends of St Thomas AME Church in Chingola Zambia, Africa. Other Churches that have partnered with my Church are St. Paul Community A.M.E. the Rev. Denise Rogers is pastor, Bethel AME Church in Dallas Texas as well as Metropolitan AME Church in Austin Texas, The Rev N Jordan Mkwanazi, Senior Pastor. All our churches listed above are in dire need of effective partnership and adoption. Pastors do not have appropriate gowns and look like cluster of “rainbows” when meeting in conferences. Indeed, you can make a difference.

To Professor Bill Dickens and the Pastor of Bethel AME Church, Tallahassee Florida, the Presiding Elder and Bishop I say, may God continue to bless and keep you. We appreciate you for you true “Missionary Spirit.” I am appealing to more and more churches to sign up for operation Queen Esther spearheaded by Rev. Denise Rodgers. This is a sure way of adding value to all overseas districts and will promote Spirit of true “Connection” in the AME Church.

Kind regards

The Rev. Royd Mwandu
St Thomas AME Church
82-14th Street,
Nchanga South
P O Box 11125
Chingola
ZAMBIA, Africa

4. MID-YEAR CONVOCATION IN LOUISVILLE REVIVES 13TH DISTRICT:

Louisville, KY – The 13th Episcopal District held its Mid-Year Convocation March 17 -19 at Quinn Chapel AME Church in Louisville, Kentucky. Presiding Elder Linda Thomas-Martin and Rev. Dr. Pedro Basdin, pastor of Quinn Chapel, hosted the three-day event. They set the stage for an unforgettable convocation revival.

Presiding Bishop Vashti Murphy McKenzie arrived along with her husband, Supervisor of Missions, Stan McKenzie. She was bubbling with great anticipation to continue to promote her vision and agenda –“You’ve God to Believe,” and her convocation theme, “Revive Us, AGAIN!”
The bishop and the supervisor met with Louisville’s top city officials, Mayor Jerry E. Abramson and Police Chief Ron White. “We want to partner with those in leadership positions to make a difference in the communities where our churches are,” Bishop McKenzie says. Mayor Abramson presented her with a key to the city. However, Bishop McKenzie was just fulfilling scripture by accepting the key. She knows that God has given her the keys to the kingdom, and he opens doors that no man can shut.

A grand opening worship and communion service took place Thursday night. Dr. William Whatley, pastor of St. James AME Church in Newark, New Jersey, cracked a few jokes at the beginning of a two-night preaching revival, but was serious as a heart attack when he took his text from St. Matthew 5:14-16. He spoke from the depths of his soul from the subject “You Are the Light of the World.”

“I’m amazed at this one truth,” Dr. Whatley said with strong religious convictions. “God has a vision for our lives – a vision of light. God believes we can be light despite our hang-ups and idiosyncrasies.” On Friday night, he preached about “What it Means to be the Salt of the Earth.”

A Friday morning plenary was conducted by Hugh Marriott of Mt. Moriah AME Church in New York. He lead a discussion from the best-selling book, Good to Great by author Jim Collins, which focused on how to collectively move from being good churches, good pastors and good lay members- to great churches, great pastors and great lay members.

The Rev. Charlene Boone, pastor of Warren Chapel AME Church on Chattanooga, Tennessee preached a soul-stirring, evangelistic sermon entitled, “I Want Something Even with My Issues.” She took her stand and ran with the Word as fast as a horse in the Kentucky Derby.
Her text came from Mark 5:25, about the woman who had spend all of her resources to be free of her sufferings. “Issues are all around us,” Rev. Boone said. We all have issues. We seem to want to hide from folks when we know we have issues. She pointed out that there are issues in the church, issues with our children, our marriages – issues with gender, race, health, and even wealth. She even made referenced to high-profile people with issues, including pop star Michael Jackson, actor Robert Blake, NBA superstar Kobe Bryant, Little ‘Kim,’ President Bush and alleged murderer, Bryant Nichols.

Philanthropist Charlie and Bettye sponsored a luncheon at the elegant, membership Jefferson Club for Bishop McKenzie and her “Believe Board Members.” They dined on an exclusive entrée with all the trimmings. Prior to the luncheon, Bishop McKenzie conducted an interview with the editor from the metropolitan newspaper, The Courier-Journal. The next morning she graced the front page of the metro section, urging churches to assist and improve communities that are struggling economically.

Bishop McKenzie practices what she preaches. She led a Saturday morning march from Quinn Chapel with the men and young adults of the Nehemiah Nation to nearby Asbury Chapel AME Church. They painted and cleaned the church and made much needed improvements. In addition, a donation from sales of the Nehemiah Nation’s logo shirts and caps went to Asbury Church to help them financially.

Retired senior Bishop John Hurst Adams preached during the closing worship service at noon on Saturday. His sermon, “Tears Do Talk” included a lot of imagery and illustrations. “Tomorrow is Palm Sunday,” Bishop Hurst said with a loud voice that echoed throughout the sanctuary. “When Jesus approached Jerusalem he wept for it,” he said. “They brought a dumb man to Jesus and all he could do was to point to his mouth. He couldn’t talk. He couldn’t tell Jesus what he wanted.”

Bishop Adams explained that Jesus understood what he could not say. “Life is so heavy,” he added. “Burdens are so big. Language has no words to embrace your predicament and your tears speak. Maybe it was Louisville. Jesus observes what is going on and he cries.” He wrapped up his sermon on a high note for his listeners to be a faithful watchman and endure sufferings. “Sacrifice perhaps even the cross,” he concluded.

On Palm Sunday, Bishop Vashti McKenzie, made her triumphant entry into the pulpit of Quinn Chapel, similar to the way Jesus did with his triumphant entry into Jerusalem. The palms were scattered throughout the sanctuary. An anxious crowd of parishioners, including some of the bishop’s Delta Sigma Theta Sorors and Louisville’s Chief of Police, waited patiently for her entry. Her arrival was a few minutes late, but she was right on time with her message entitled, “It Doesn’t Make Sense, But It Works.”

She asked the question, “Are you living the life you expected you would be living five, ten, 20 or 30 years ago? She focused on her text from Isaiah 54: 2-3. “Sing, O barren woman,” she shouted. “The women were summons to sing. They sang when the grapes matured. They sang expressing grief and sorrow. Now God wants you to sing a new song.”

Bishop McKenzie preached parishioners out of their seats. “Why would God tell a barren woman to get ready to get pregnant?” She answered her own question, “Because she’s pregnant with possibilities. God has found out that you are ready for the greater blessing. God has been trying and testing you. You are about to burst loose.”

The preacher down in her spirit erupts. She twists and she turns. “Somebody ought to praise God up in here. Restoration is on the way. The season of lack and famine is over. You can sing a song of praise and victory.”

5. MINISTRIES IN CHRISTIAN EDUCATION MEETING, NASHVILLE, MUSIC CITY USA, WELCOMES YOU TO THE ANNUAL MINISTRIES IN CHRISTIAN EDUCATION TRAINING & PLANNING MEETING:

Theme: Nurturing Christians for 21st Century

The Rev. Marvin Zanders, Opening Worship Preacher
Dr. Carmichael Crutchfield, Teaching Moment Leader
The Rev. E. Ann Byfield, Closing Worship Preacher

Bishop Robert V. Webster, Chair, Commission on Christian Education
Dr. Daryl B. Ingram, Executive Director

Where: Marriott Airport Hotel, 600 Marriott Drive, Nashville, TN 37214
For room reservations call: 800.770.0555, or 615.889.9300
Rate: $105 per night for Single, Double, Triple
Cut off date: April 1, 2005
Parking: Complimentary
Airport Transportation: Complimentary to hotel
Registration: $125 before April 1, 2005; $150 after April 1, 2005

Christian Education Motto: Light, Freedom, Truth, Light to see the truth,Freedom to make it known.

Schedule (Subject to change)

Wednesday, April 20, 2005

3:00 – 7:00 PM Registration
7:00 PM Welcome Fellowship

Thursday, April 21, 2005

8:00 – 9:00 AM Registration
8:00 AM Newcomer
:00 AM Morning Devotions & Study
10:00 AM Plenary Session
11:00 AM Workshops A
12:00 HN Lunch
2:00 PM Plenary Session
3:00 PM Workshops B & C
5:00 PM Dinner
7:00 PM Opening Worship Service

Friday, April 22, 2005

8:00 AM Chat with the Director
9:00 AM Morning Devotions & Study
10:00 AM Teaching Moment
11:00 AM Workshops
12:00 HN Lunch
2:00 PM Plenary Session
3:00 PM Ministries Meetings & Workshops
5:00 PM Dinner
7:00 PM Plenary SessionSaturday, April 23, 2005
9:00 AM Ministries Meetings & Workshops
11:00 AM Ministries Report
12:00 HN Closing Worship Service

6. SERVICE ARRANGEMENTS FOR THE FATHER OF EPISCOPAL SUPERVISOR PAM DEVEAUX:

Date: 3/29/2005 10:29:06 PM Central Standard Time
From: jwill05@emory.edu To: Amespouses1@aol.com

A memorial service will be held for Mr. Jesse Morris, 98 year old father of Dr.Pam DeVeaux, and father-in-law of Bishop William P. DeVeaux, on Friday, April1, 2005, at 11 a.m. at:

People's Independent Church of Christ
5856 West Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA
Flowers may be sent to the church for the service.

Donations will be given toMr. Morris' church.

Dr. "Pam" is with her sister, Ms Yvonne Simpson
601 Loyola Dr. Carson, CA 90746
310-719-9504 (phone)

7. DEATH NOTICE:

The Reverend Michael D. Washington, Pastor of Bethel A.M.E. Church, Huntington, NYannounces with regret the death of Mrs. Mamie Kay Spencer, mother of the Reverend Dr. William R. Spencer, Ministerial Assistant. An edition of "The Christian Recorder Online" included an article detailing Rev. Dr. Spencer's sermon regarding Bethel's "Health Awareness Sunday." The full article will appear in the next hardcopy edition of The Christian Recorder.
Condolences may be sent to:

The Rev. Dr. William R. Spencer
23 Ft. Salonga Road
Centerport, NY 11721-1603

Mrs. Spencer's death occurred quite suddenly on March 26th. As God would have it, Rev. Dr. Spencer had visited her just the week before to celebrate her 60th birthday. Please keep The Spencer Family in your prayers during this period of extraordinary bereavement.

8. FUNERAL NOTICE:

We regret to inform you of the passing of Mrs. Aleane White. She was the wife of the late, retired Rev. A. McNeil White, Presiding Elder in the Philadelphia Conference of the First Episcopal District. The following information has been provided regarding funeral arrangements.

Viewing - Saturday, April 2, 2005
9:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m.
St. Matthew AME Church
57th & Summer Streets
Philadelphia, PA 19139
The Rev. Ellis L. Washington, Pastor

Funeral - Saturday, April 2, 2005
Service - 10:00 a.m.
St. Matthew AME Church
Rev. George T. Sims, Officiating Minister

Condolences may be sent to:

Family of Mrs. Aleane White
c/o St. Matthew AME Church
57th & Summer Streets
Philadelphia, PA 19139
Burial - Ivy Hill Cemetery

Congleton Funeral Home, Funeral Director

Please remember the White family in your prayers during this time of their bereavement.

9. DEATH NOTICE:

Please be in prayer for my brother and sister-in-law, Alfred and Shirley Ogden, my niece (Taneita) passed away on last evening, she was 27, cause of death is unknown as of now...she lost her vitals while at the hospital. Arrangements are pending! Alfred and Shiley Ogden8768 Falcon Trace DriveJacksonville, FL 32222

Forwarded by the Reverend Keith A. Ogden
135 Hill Street
Asheville, NC 28801
(828) 254-4646 Office (828) 350-8025
Direct Line (828) 242-8357 Mobile
www.hillstreetbaptistchurch.org

9. ALL DEATH NOTICES AND FUNERAL INFORMATION IS RECEIVED FROM:

Ora L. EasleyEmail: Amespouses1@aol.com
(Nashville, TN Contact)
Phone: (615) 837-9736
Fax: (615) 833-3781
(Memphis, TN Contact)
(901) 578-4554 (Phone & Fax)
CONN-M-SWAWO +PK'SWEB SITES
http://www.amemswwpk.org/http://www.connmswawo3.com/
CONN-M-SWAWO + P.K.'S June 2005 Events

THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER ONLINE (3/29/05)

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:

I received a negative letter from “Bishop” Robert L. McKenzie, which I wouldn’t even dignify by placing it in The Christian Recorder. I have forwarded the letter to all of the Bishops, whose email address I have, and to the General Officers. I am appending my response to the “good bishop.”

My response

Dear Bishop Robert L, McKenzie:

Thank you for your kind note. As far as I am concerned this matter with Grace Ministries International Fellowship and Grace Seminary is “laid to rest.” Praise God!

You have listed a number of negative things about the AME Church, but in the Spirit of Christ, I will not attempt to respond, in kind. Instead, I am responding in the Spirit of Christ and on behalf of the Church. We will “Turn the other cheek.” The Bible, quoting Jesus says, “Blessed are ye, when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely, for my sake. Rejoice and be exceedingly glad for great is your reward in heaven; for so persecuted they the prophets who were before you.” (Matt. 5:11, 12) I am rejoicing because of your letter and I praise God for your letter. Thank you for all of the negative statements you said about the AME Church and its leadership. I am rejoicing! I rejoice because, you said that you, “…almost died laughing” because of what one of our bishops said. I rejoice because you found some humor in his statement. I rejoice, in the Name of Christ, because of all of the negative things you have written about the African Methodist Episcopal Church.

Please accept this note as our way of “turning the other cheek” to your negativity and venomous statements.

May God bless you and your ministry and may the love and peace of Christ be yours!



2. UPDATE OF MORRIS BROWN COLLEGE

The Morris Brown College Board of Trustees has selected Mr. James E. Young, President and CEO of Citizens Trust Bank of Atlanta, Georgia, as its Board Chairman on September 13, 2004. The board is comprised of representatives from the corporate world, alumni of the college and concerned persons from the Atlanta community. At the time of the vote, there were no ordained African Methodist clergy serving as members other than Bishop DeVeaux.

Under the new model, Bishop William P. DeVeaux, the presiding bishop of the Sixth Episcopal District will serve as Board Vice Chairman. He has agreed to support all programs of the Board as it seeks to restore and revitalize the college. The trustees believe that this governance program will provide greater access of the corporate community, enhance the strategic planning process, and increase funding.

The Trustees will depend on the consistent and faithful support of the entire constituency of the African Methodism as its primary building block for insuring the future of Morris Brown College.

3. THE GLOBAL CORNER: NEWS FROM THE 20TH EPISCOPAL DISTRICT:

Malawi North Annual Conference - August 3rd - 7th 2005
Host Church - Boma AME Church - Chitipa, Malawi
Host Pastor - The Rev. B. M. K. Siyeni
Host Presiding Elder - The Rev. W. M. Ngulube

Malawi south annual conference - august 10th - 14th 2005
Host Church - Nalikata AME Church - Mulanje, Malawi
Host Pastor - The Rev. S. Manyera
Host Presiding Elder - The Rev. Lewis Mwenye

Northeast Zimbabwe annual conference - august 17th - 21st 2005
Host Church - Sakubva AME Church - Mutare, Zimbabwe
Host Pastor - The Rev. Lovemore Machivenyika
Host presiding Elder - The Rev. O. T. S. Sanhanga

Southwest Zimbabwe Annual Conference - August 24th - 28th 2005
Host Church - Jordan Temple AME Church - Gwanda, Zimbabwe
Host Pastor – The Rev. Freeman Nhlazo
Host Presiding Elder - The Rev. John Makgatho

Central Zimbabwe Annual Conference - August 31st - September 4th 2005
Host Church - Mt. Zion AME Church- Gweru, Zimbabwe
Host Pastor - The Rev. David M. T. Muravu
Host Presiding Elder - The Rev. David M. T. Muravu

Malawi Central Annual Conference - October 5th - 9th 2005
Host Church - Mdabwi AME Church - Kasungu, Malawi
Host Pastor - The Rev. J. A. Kambanizite
Host presiding elder - The Rev. N. Chamamba

With kind regards,
Bishop W. J. Messiah

4. GOOD NEWS FOR THE UNINSURED SUBMITTED BY THE REVEREND DR. MIRIAM BURNETT:

Millions of people across the country and in our state have difficulty affording health care, including prescription medicines. They lack health insurance and simply do not have the money to pay for the medicines they need.

But there is good news

The Partnership for Prescription Assistance can help low-income, uninsured patients access the free or nearly free, brand-name medicines they need. The Partnership for Prescription Assistance brings together America’s pharmaceutical companies, doctors, patient advocacy organizations and civic groups. The African Methodist Episcopal Church Connectional Health Commission (AMEC CHC) is proud to be a part of this effort.

By calling 1-888 - 4PPA -NOW, patients can learn whether they may be eligible for one or more patient assistance programs. A trained specialist will ask a series of short questions and help identify the right patient assistance program for them. Patients can also visit the program’s interactive Web site, www.pparx.org, which will guide them through the application process.
The patient assistance programs available through the Partnership for Prescription Assistance offer prescription medicines to treat a broad range of illnesses and conditions, including, but not limited to, asthma, diabetes, hypertension, cancer, HIV/AIDS, depression, seizures, heart disease, arthritis, skin conditions, thyroid disease and high cholesterol.

Though each patient assistance program has its own eligibility criteria, the Partnership for Prescription Assistance encourages anyone who does not have prescription drug coverage and has trouble affording their medicines to call 1-888-4PPA-NOW or log on to www.pparx.org to see if they may qualify for one or more programs.

Helping the uninsured is a top priority for African Methodist Episcopal Church Connectional Health Commission, and we will continue to advocate for those in need. If you are interested in learning how you can help support the Partnership for Prescription Assistance, please contact Mrs. Gwen Williams, Executive Director (telephone: (504) 482-6053) or Rev. Dr. Miriam Burnett, Medical Director (email: mailto:mburnett@itc.edu). We are pleased to be a partner in the effort to bring free to those in need.


5. LETTER TO THE EDITOR

I thank you for bringing up the issue of Itinerancy. It is a topic that is worth discussing. I do not think one can discuss Itinerancy without discussing what it means to be called by God to be Pastor. For when God calls us he has a plan and it may mean moving.

I have had the pleasure of serving in the United Methodist and the A.M.E. church. As a United Methodist, I was taught we serve at the pleasure of God and the Bishop. In other words when the Bishop assigned you somewhere, even if you did not like it, you said "Thank you sir, for using me" then cried when you got home, if it was not an assignment you liked.

When I answered my call to serve God, I knew he wanted me to do a different type of ministry and I was excited! I never felt called to an urban church. And like you Dr. Sydnor, I was in a prize conference, the New York conference of the United Methodist Church in New York City.

While attending Princeton Seminary my last year, the Dean of placement called me and said he had the perfect position for me. As a United Methodist Campus minister in Bozeman, Montana!

I thought he was crazy. The position wanted someone with a social work degree which I had. That was 13 years ago I took the position and I am still in Montana. Now I am doing rural ministry in the A.M.E. church which I love. I am a church planter which is my heart's desire and I am now an Itinerant elder in the A.M.E. church. It has been an amazing journey. I still say I serve at the pleasure of God and the pleasure of Bishop Bryant. For being an Itinerant pastor is like being a fire fighter, we can not pick and choose which fires to put out; we must always be ready and go where we are needed.

Lastly, I am so proud to be A.M.E. for if I had not been in Montana, I would not be A.M.E. Though my work is small, it is important to God, Bishop Bryant. God needs some of us to venture from the safe and comfortable. For there are so many longing to hear his word. Dr. Sydnor, you have been such a wonderful mentor to me and so many others. I thank God for your wonderful work on the Christian Recorder.

The Rev. Denise Rogers,
St. Paul Community A.M.E. Church
www.forministry.com/59715spcac

THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER ONLINE (3/28/05)

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 Itinerancy in the African Methodist Church is not well…

In years past, the issue of the itinerancy was a part of any discussion about ministry in the African Methodist Episcopal Church. I remember hearing the old folks talking about the itinerant ministry when I was growing up. Upon acknowledging my call to the ministry, among the first questions that I had to answer was whether I wanted itinerant or local orders. I was given the AME Discipline and told to study and to make sure that I made the decision about the itinerancy or local orders that was right for me. I was told that once I started on the track I selected, I could not change.

I started the journey of the itinerant ministry in the New Brunswick District of the New Jersey Annual Conference at Ebenezer AME Church in Rahway, New Jersey. I transferred to the Philadelphia Annual Conference and I recall Bishop John D. Bright constantly telling us, young ministers, if we wanted to pastor a church that we needed to be willing to leave the Philadelphia Annual Conference. He spoke that over and over again at each annual conference.

I was ordained an Itinerant Elder at Greater St. Matthews AME Church in Philadelphia and Bishop Frederick D. Jordan visited the Philadelphia Annual Conference. I remember going up to him at the end of one of the worship services and told him that I wanted to pastor a church and finish seminary. He asked me if I was willing to move to the Thirteenth Episcopal District and I responded that I was willing to move. He gave me a date and told me to meet him in Kentucky. My wife, Charlotte and our two children drove to Kentucky in our “Volkswagen bug” and met Bishop Jordan in the parsonage of Quinn Chapel AME Church, Lexington, Kentucky; and the rest is history. I pastored and completed my seminary education.

So where am I going with this? When I left the Philadelphia Annual Conference in 1966, there were folks who thought that my wife and I were crazy. One pastor told me, “You don’t trade the Philadelphia Annual Conference for the Kentucky Annual Conference; that’s going backwards.” It may have been a “backward move,” but it was the best “backward move” I ever made. I was like a young bird on its first flight. I took off, floundered a bit, and then began to fly with the Spirit of God beneath my wings. I was an itinerant.

What has happened to the itinerancy? Let me use the Second Episcopal District as an example. The applicants for ministry, especially the women, are pursuing their academic training with vigor. I believe that there are as many trained clergy in the Second Episcopal District as anywhere in the church. And, I suspect that the same demographic can be found in other Episcopal Districts.

So, we have trained clergy, but my casual observation tells me that a number of the trained clergy in the Second, and other Episcopal Districts, are not willing to trust the AME Church’s itinerant system. As a result we have highly trained Itinerant Elders who are willing to serve as assistant pastors and, in reality, are serving in a “local” relationship capacity. They do not want to risk losing their good jobs so they are satisfied with bi-vocational ministry. We have pastors who are more interested in setting up and nurturing a “nest egg” for retirement than risking and “giving up all to follow Jesus.”

The Itinerancy is a risk and it is not easy. It may be that some of our “best and brightest” are “bunched up” in large urban churches because they have gotten comfortable and acquired things and don’t want to risk losing their possessions. It might be that they are “waiting for their ship to come in,” in the district where they presently serve. It might be fear. And, it might be a lack of trust.

I can tell you from experience that the Itinerancy is a risk. When I arrived at Shorter Chapel AME Church in Paris, Kentucky in July 1966, it was a rude awakening. I was ready to go back to Bethel AME Church in Bryn Mawr, Pennsylvania and be an assistant pastor for the rest of my ministry. I was ready to acknowledge that the people, who told me that I was crazy for trading the Philadelphia Annual Conference for the Kentucky Annual Conference, were right.

As bad as I thought that it was, it didn’t take me long to find out that God’s Grace was sufficient and I was in God’s favor. The people at Shorter Chapel and later at St. James AME Church, Danville Kentucky provided me an opportunity for ministry and growth that has carried me from then to now. The move from Philadelphia to Kentucky was blessing for me and my family.

So what’s the bottom-line? The African Methodist Episcopal Church needs inspired, Holy Spirit-filled, trained ministers all over the AME Church. Trust the system and, if you are an itinerant, be an itinerant in the fullest sense. If you want to finish your education, speak with a bishop and convince him or her that you are willing to move. It’s a faith venture and God still makes a way! “It doesn’t make sense, but God works it!”

2. LETTER TO THE EDITOR:

Dear Editor: Thanks for calling to our attention the fact that some A.M.E. ministers were listed in the category of "Bishop" by a “Bishop” Robert L McKenzie who also claimed to be president of a "Grace Seminary" in Lubbock TX. A pastor from the Eighth District was included on that list. I called it to her attention and she acted on it immediately and with great integrity. I also think it is interesting that as soon as I (and the other bishops who took action) began to inquire about the site, it came down. To my knowledge, no other names from the Eighth District appeared on the site.

Again thanks for your timely action.

Bishop Henning

Editor’s Comment: You AME Bishops and General Officers took expeditious action against this intrusion by the Grace Ministries International Fellowship. The website http://www.graceseminary.org/ is dismantled.

Again, thanks to the Reverend Dr. Joseph Darby who had the presence of mind and the courage to expose this proselytizing agenda of Grace Ministries International Fellowship.

3. DEATH NOTICE:

We are sorry to report that our Episcopal Supervisor, Dr. Pam DeVeaux, the wife of Bishop William P. DeVeaux, lost her father, Mr. Jesse Morris, on Sunday March 27, 2005. He was 98 years old.

Condolences may be sent to:

Ms. Yvonne Simpson
601 Loyola Dr.
Carson, California

Dr. Pam will be staying with her sister in California, Ms. Yvonne Simpson, whose telephone number is (310) 719-9504.

Joanne Williams-Cooper, SED 1st VP
Shirley Taylor, SED President

Please remember the family in your prayers.

God Bless!Ora L. Easley

Email: Amespouses1@aol.com
Nashville, TN Contact: Phone: (615) 837-9736
Fax: (615) 833-3781

Memphis, TN Contact: (901) 578-4554 (Phone & Fax)

4. MEDICARE AND YOU: IMPORTANT 2005 DATES FOR YOU TO REMEMBER:

The Medicare Modernization Act (MMA) of 2003 has many changes to the Medicare Program. Important dates for persons with Medicare to remember prior to implementation of the Prescription Drug Program in January of 2006 are:

January 1, 2005 – the Medicare Prevention and Screening Services offers a “Welcome to Medicare” physical examination to new persons with MedicareCholesterol, cardiovascular, and diabetes screening as preventive services are also offered.

March 31, 2005 – Persons desiring the full $600 technical assistance for 2005 with Medicare-Approved Drug Discount Card must apply no later than March 31, 2005 for credit. Those applying between April 1 and June 30, 2005 will be eligible for $450 technical assistance. Those applying July 1 – September 1, 2005 are eligible for $300 credit, and those applying October 1, 2005 to December 31, 2005 are eligible for only $150 technical assistance.

October 2005 – persons with Medicare will also be receiving their “Medicare & You” handbook in the mail. Persons with retiree health benefits should, watch for information from their former employer or union.

October 13, 2005 - persons with Medicare will be able to compare the benefits of the various Medicare Prescription Drug Plans.

November 2005 – Starting November 15, 2005, persons with Medicare may Enroll in the Medicare Drug Plan that fits their needs.

For more information visit the Medicare website at www.medicare.gov or call: 1-800 Medicare (1-800-633-4227).

Teresa Zayas
Health Insurance SpecialistCMS Atlanta (404) 562-7220

5. CONN-M-SWAWO + PK'S CLERGY FAMILY EVENTS, WYNDHAM ANATOLE HOTEL, DALLAS, TEXAS:

Sunday, June 26, 2005

6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.: PK Forum
8:00 p.m. - 11:00 p.m.: .Election of Officers for 2005-2009,

Monday, June 27, 2005

7:00 - 9:00 a.m.: Clergy Family Awards and Installation Breakfast

Mrs. Ora L. Easley, President, CONN-M-SWAWO + PK’S
Dr. John Q. Owens, Director of Social Action
Bishop Carolyn Tyler Guidry, Social Action Commission Chair

HOSTS:

Mrs. Verdene K. Austin, Episcopal M-SWAWO President
The Rev. Dr. Jessica Kendall Ingram, Episcopal Supervisor
The Right Reverend Gregory G. M. Ingram, Presiding Bishop

6. UPDATE ON THE REVEREND DR. HENDERSON DAVIS, RETIRED GENERAL OFFICER (HISTORIOGRAPHER) OF THE AFRICAN METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH:

My father, the Reverend Dr. Henderson Davis, is a retired General Officer of the AME Church; he served as Historiographer from 1980 -1988. Prior to being elected a General Officer, he was a presiding elder and pastor mostly in the 4th district, but also pastored in the 3rd district and taught at Wilberforce University and was dean of the seminary at Allen University in the Seventh Episcopal District. He is 91 years old and had a pacemaker put in last month. After he got out of the hospital, he went to the rehabilitation center and was discharged this month.
He is home recuperating and I know there are many in the Church who still know and love him. I don't know how many more precious days he has left - hopefully many, many more! But I would like for him to “smell his flowers” while he is still here. I would like people to know that they can send him cards at his home in Indianapolis: Dr. Henderson Davis 3773 Manor Court Indianapolis, Indiana 46218 I think it would lift his spirits and be of comfort to him. I am his youngest daughter - and understand information and media as I have had a long career as V.P. at Johnson Publishing / EBONY/J ET and just recently started my own media, marketing and special events company. I've attached my info. Again, thank you for anything that you can do. God bless you!

Lydia Davis EadyPresident
Joy Communications
Cell:312-656-0305
mauilde@yahoo.com

Editor’s Comment: The letter above was sent to the Reverend Dr. Clement Fugh, General Secretary and CIO of the AME Church, who forwarded, and requested that it be published in The Christian Recorder. Let’s show Dr. Henderson Davis some AME love and inundate him with cards and best wishes. He was a superb Historiographer.