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:
- Morris Brown will have its Commencement Exercises on Sunday May 15 at 6 p.m. at the John Henry Lewis Health Physical Education and Recreation Complex. The Honorable Cathy Cox, Secretary of State will be the Commencement speaker.
Letter to the Editor:
Dear Dr. Sydnor
Congratulations for being selected by Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. as Outstanding “2004” Citizen of the Year for your journalistic skills and format presentation as Editor. I rejoice with you for the honor and for your success.
My Church pastor has also provided me with a subscription to The A.M.E. Church Review and I concur with you that the articles are educationally informing, scholarly, and relevant for our Zion and for living a life that can be abundantly fulfilled by God’s Grace.
I plan to write to Dr. Dickerson fort see if portions of my doctoral dissertation might be considered for inclusion in one of his issues. The subject is “Human Potential – Christian Perfection the internal Struggles to Growth.”
Again, warm and sincere congratulations.
The Reverend Dr. Mildred S. Keeys, Ph. D.
- More of the account of my visit to Johannesburg, South Africa and Harare, Zimbabwe to attend the Global Development Council – Day 1-2:
The opening session began with the devotional service being led by representatives of the 15th and 20th Episcopal Districts. At the conclusion of the morning session, which ended on a high note, we adjourned for lunch.
Bishop and Mother Messiah hosted an excellent lunch for the GDC participants. An array of salads, which I did not eat, but which looked like it came out of Gourmet Magazine was deliciously displayed. Baked chicken, beef, vegetables, soup, rice, potatoes and various desserts were served. The chicken and gravy over rice was prepared like it‘s prepared “back home.” The gravy was good for soppin’ it up with some biscuits. They didn’t have biscuits, but the breads were superb and much like the breads served in Europe. As a matter of fact the desserts were prepared like desserts are prepared in Europe; not very sweet as some American desserts. The lunch was wonderful and the service was excellent.
The afternoon session started with devotions by representatives from the 17th Episcopal District; and what a devotional. It was amazing to me to hear familiar tunes and hearing different languages being sung to the tunes that I have heard all of my live. The body movement of the Africans there at the Sheraton Hotel in Harare in 2005 took me back to St. George Methodist Episcopal Church in 1787 and I can imagine the white members of St. George being disturbed by the emotionalism and movements of the Africans in the sedate Methodist worship service. People of color are expressive people, even in worship. I felt my body swaying and moving to the music. Now, you have got to remember that I came out of Ebenezer AME Church in Rahway, NJ where the worship service was quiet and there were not many emotional outbursts. Occasionally someone would “catch the Spirit,” so my body is not naturally used to a whole lot of movin’ and goovin’ in worship. But I felt my body naturally movin’ and groovin’.
The afternoon agenda called for each Episcopal District to share a five minute prepared statement of concern. There was a concern about the general Church’s use of the term, “AME in Africa” because there is a church by that name in Africa, which started in 1980. Bishop Carolyn Tyler Guidry opined that “”We were here first, and that group needs to find another name.” Bishop Carolyn Tyler Guidry also wanted to insure that everyone knew that the GDC includes “the Caribbean, South America, the British Isles, and Europe.” She was concerned that some people think only of Africa when the GDC or “overseas” is mentioned. She encouraged to the group to think and speak globally.
Bishop Samuel Green chaired some of the afternoon session and he knows how to move a “meetin’ along.” The “Bishop” does not like to waste time and he was anxious for us to stay on task; and he kept the meeting on task.
Bishop Messiah shared with the group about the expenses and gave a financial report to the members of the GDC. Bishop James Davis expressed the view that a full accounting for all disbursement of funds should be the protocol of the GDC. The afternoon session business was completed and the various committee slots were willed.
Dinner was each attendee’s option. I chose to go to the Japanese restaurant in the hotel. That was not a good decision. I chose shrimp; and that was not a good decision. I should have stuck with the beef or chicken.
The evening session began with the devotionals led by the 14th Episcopal District. The devotional, as were the others, was a moving spiritual event. The attendees reviewed what had been accomplished and the quadrennial agenda was discussed and will be finalized. Other business was transacted upon. Proposed meeting dates were discussed and a “roadmap” for the work of the GDC provoked a spirited discussion.
We adjourned for the evening and returned for the closing session on Thursday morning. The devotion was led by the 14th Episcopal District as we prepared to hear the Word preached by the Right Reverend Sarah Davis. She preached a Spirit-filled message entitled, “You Can’t Stay Here; It’s Time to Move on!” She took her text from Deuteronomy 1:1-18. She preached about how Moses spoke to the whole people of Israel and how God’s message is the same message today. Bishop Davis spoke about being prepared. She went on to say, “If you move on; you have got to be prepared. “ She shared that God is an intentional God and God wants an intentional people. The preacher went on to say that, “Intentional people, intentionally ‘live for God, walk with God and work for God.’” She also spoke about the “wilderness” and asked the congregation to think l about where God spoke – in the wilderness. She pointed out that God speaks to folks in the wilderness today- a place with no boundaries such as the wilderness of disappointment and the wilderness of not making progress, the wilderness of seeing AME schools looking worse that the schools of the Seventh-Day Adventists and the Roman Catholics and the wilderness of seeming to not having enough resources. The sermonic good news is that we do not have to stay in the wilderness (and I don’t need to tell you anymore because you can probably use your imagination and you would know that the rest of the sermon preached itself!). God told the people that they had to leave the wilderness and go and possess the Promised Land. Some of us want to stay on the mountain or in the wilderness. God enjoins us, today, to go and possess the Promised Land, the blessings that God has prepared for us. The sermon was awesome. We prayed and sang and the preacher gave us the benediction.
But we were not finished. We had lunch and the food was good, they must have saved the best for last. The hotel prepared a feast. They must have had some South Carolinians in the kitchen. We had a great meal, but more than the, the overseas Bishops and the Editor of The Christian Recorder had a conversation about the overseas work… (To be continued)
In the next edition of The Christian Recorder Online I will share the great conversation I had with the Bishops and the Episcopal Supervisors during lunch.
2. GLOBAL WITNESS AND MINISTRY NEWS:
Dr. George F. Flowers, Executive Director of the Department of Global Witness and Ministry and Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III, Editor of The Christian Recorder are flying, as I am writing this message to you, on a very long flight to Johannesburg, South Africa from Atlanta, Georgia.
Following a “full day” in South Africa; we will board another flight for Harare, Zimbabwe to attend the Global Development Council (GDC) convening at the Sheraton Hotel Harare. The Council Meeting will have representatives from every overseas district (14-20). Bishop James L Davis will convene the meeting and Bishop Wilfred Messiah will serve as host. We are expecting at least 100 in attendance to include: executives, some council members, 7 active overseas bishops, 1 retired bishop living on the continent and 2 stateside bishops. This will be the first meeting of the quadrennial.
Dr. George F. flowers and the Department of Global Witness and Ministry have received for the Tsunami for East Africa through the following donors:
- $10,000 from Bishop Adam J. Richardson and the Second Episcopal
District
- $ 2,000 from (WMS) Eighth Episcopal District; Bishop C. Garnett
Henning and Supervisor Yvonne H. Parks
- $8,181.85 from SADA and Mr. Robert Nicholas (donors from across the church
- $500.00 Baker Chapel AMEC (Souper Bowl) Tenth Episcopal District
- $500.00 Greater St. Peter AME (Jonesburg, GA) Sixth Episcopal District
- $250.00 Jerusalem AME (Wadmalaw, SC) Seventh Episcopal District
- $500.00 Campbell Chapel (Bluffton, SC) Seventh Episcopal District
- $531.14 Greater Trinity (Charleston, SC) Seventh Episcopal District
- $150.00 Nazareth AME (Georgetown, SC) Seventh District
(According to Executive Director Flowers, the entire amount was channeled as (Pass-through funds) to Church World Service primarily for East Africa).
Received for Haiti Relief Efforts:
- $1,000.00 Macedonia AME (New York) First District
- $6,581.13 Lay Organization Seventh Episcopal District (South Carolina)
- $500.00 Bethel AME (New Orleans, LA) Eighth District
- $200.00 Mother Beverly Thomas
(These funds were (Pass-Through) to Presiding Prelate of the 16th Episcopal District; Bishop Carolyn Tyler Guidry).
The Reverend Dr. George F. Flowers
gwmame@bellsouth.net
Archive of The Christian Recorder Online from 2004-2016; Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III, 20th Editor of The Christian Recorder
5/06/2005
5/05/2005
THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER ONLINE (5/5/05)
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 Associated Press featured a story about an AME minister and his wife who were arrested and charged with arson in Summerville, SC on Tuesday for burning their church building down. The New York Times and other newspapers picked up the story and released an article yesterday. I mention it because it’s in the media and certainly our prayers go out to the Bethel AME Church family in Summerville. This has to be a trying time for the pastor and his wife, that congregation and the surrounding community. Keep them in your prayers remember that person(s) are innocent until proven guilty.
- More of the account of my visit to Johannesburg, South Africa and Harare, Zimbabwe to attend the Global Development Council and a little historical background about the Global Development Council
To pick up where I left off, we arrived at the International Airport of Harare at about 9 p.m. local time and were met by Bishop Messiah. We were taken to the Harare Sheraton Hotel where we were met by Episcopal Supervisor, Mother Carol Messiah. Our rooms were ready after getting settled in our rooms and after attending the welcome reception, we retired for the night.
Bishops Wilfred Messiah, James Davis, Carolyn Tyler Guidry, Samuel Green, and Sarah Davis had a late night meeting to finalize the agenda for the GDC that was going to have its opening session on Wednesday morning.
The ministerial and lay leadership from the overseas Districts 16 – 20 had arrived and were ready to do the work of the Church as it relates to global ministry.
Wednesday morning, April 27th was beautiful. Sunrise arrived early and after a breakfast of eggs, bacon, baked beans, fresh bread and coffee, we moved to the first session of the Global Development Council. There were about 100 participants at the GDC meeting.
The bishops, General Officers, Connectional Officers and Episcopal Supervisors were introduced and presented to the GDC participants. Bishop James Davis chaired the opening session of the meeting and conducted the organizational business of the GDC and eloquently handled the election of officers. Bishop Wilfred Messiah was unanimously elected to be the chair of the GDC for the next two years.
A little historical background of the GDC
As a way of explaining the mission of the GDC, I am extracting some of the information from a handout that was distributed at the conference.
The GDC is concerned about Global witness and development in Africa, the nations of the Caribbean, South America, the British Isles, and Europe.
In the 1980-1984 Quadrennium, bishops of the African Methodist Episcopal Church began to address the multiple stress points emanating from Africa. There was a concern about the lack of Africans that had been elected to the Episcopacy. Also there apparently there were concerns with the Article of Religion as to how it addressed allegiance to civil authority, especially allegiance to the government of the United States.
The 1996 Doctrine and Discipline of the AME Church provided for the formation of a commission to determine the programmatic opportunities and timelines for maximum development in Episcopal Districts 14 – 19 (now 20). “In 1997, the Council of Bishops authorized the Right Reverend Harold Ben Senatle, senior bishop in Africa, to call a historic all-Africa summit to address continental commonalities and concerns. The first meeting was held in Johannesburg and included the participation and leadership of Bishops C. Garnett Henning, Richard Allen Chappelle, Sr. and Adam J. Richardson, Jr. who were serving in Africa, and Bishops Donald G. K. Ming and McKinley Young who were serving districts in the United States.
The Africa Jurisdictional Committee (AJC)
Another summit was held in March 1999 in South Africa. Out of that summit was “birthed” the Africa Jurisdictional Committee (AJC) which produced a document, the Africa Jurisdictional Authority Bill (AJC Bill), which was referred to the annual conferences in Africa.
A third summit was held in Mafikeng, South Africa. The AJC Bill was approved by the African Episcopal Districts and subsequently, with minor amendments, at the 2000 General Conference. The bishops who were assigned to Africa, Bishops Adam J. Richardson, Richard F. Norris, Vashti Murphy McKenzie, Gregory G. M. Ingram and Preston W. Williams, along with retired Bishop, H. B. Senatle and C. Garnett Henning, the chair of the Commission on Africa Development, continued to work diligently.
Name changed from the Africa Jurisdictional Committee to the Global Development Council
At the 2004 General Conference, the name of the Africa Jurisdictional Authority was changed to the Global Development Council to represent “the global interest of he Church’s ministry beyond the borders of the United States.” The GDC has been challenged to provide equitable development for the life and leadership opportunities of its members and ministries in Africa, the nations of the Caribbean, South America, the British Isles and Europe.
The mission of the GDC is to implement the mission and purpose of the AME Church; establish opportunities for developing clergy and lay leadership in the church; unite all AME Churches in Africa, the nations of the Caribbean, South America, the British isles, and Europe; determine the potential resources of he AME Church, develop and implement programs for the maximum development of the congregations; promote economic development and health initiatives; secure for members in the global community, opportunities for service in the ministry of governance; promote deeper understanding, collaboration, and cohesion among the AME Churches in Africa, the nations of the Caribbean, South America, the British Isles, Europe, and Canada with those of the United States.
Among the membership of the GDC are all of the active and retired bishops; general officers, connectional officers and field representatives, members of the General Board, supervisors and presidents of episcopal auxiliaries and organizations residing and serving in GDC episcopal districts.
The GDC is directed to hold biennial meetings and the Executive Board, which includes all of the bishops serving in Africa and the presiding bishop of the Sixteenth Episcopal District, is to meet annually.
The first Session
The GDC chair, Bishop Wilfred Messiah, gave the participants an opportunity to share their concerns and a spirited discussion ensued. It appeared that there was a perception that the AME Church in the United States should be doing more to assist the overseas districts. That went on for a while and appeared to be gaining some momentum when Bishop Davis went to the podium and acknowledged what he was hearing about what the participants were saying about the need for more assistance from the districts in the United States. He went on to say that the direction of the dialogue, in his opinion, was going against the grain of the historical and spiritual foundation of the African Methodist Episcopal Church; that we have always been a church in struggle and with economic constraints, but that never hindered our growth and spiritual focus. He observed that in the discussions that he heard about what was not being done, but nothing about the Holy Spirit’s work in the life of the Church. He was taken back that no one had mentioned what God could do or what God was doing. And following his line of thinking, Sister Passion A. N. Musa, the 20th Episcopal District President and Connectional 3rd Vice President of the Women's Missionary Society of AME Church, gave a passionate affirmation of what Bishop James Davis’ comments by encouraging the participants to accept the biblical principles of tithing and went on to say that the GDC participants in that room had the resources to bring about change in the overseas districts. In a moving and passionate voice, Sister Musa encouraged the participants to embrace, for themselves and to encourage others to tithe and to seek a deeper spiritual underpinning. One could feel the “Sweet, Sweet Spirit” in that place.
We broke for lunch on a high note. (To be continued)
In the next edition of The Christian Recorder Online I will share the great comments of Bishops Wilfred Messiah, Carolyn Tyler Guidry, Sam Green and Sarah Davis and some of the other participants.
2. KAIROS COMMUNITY AME CHURCH, 4605 NOLENSVILLE PIKE, NASHVILLE TENNESSEE 37211 CELEBRATES PENTECOST:
Greetings in the name of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ!
I am writing to share with you how God is blessing us in the establishment of the Kairos Community Church and to invite you to join us on Pentecost Sunday, May 15, 2005 as we celebrate the opening of this great church.
The first AME Church to be planted in Nashville since 1911, Kairos Community Church has been worshiping together since February 13, 2005 and we have now grown to 25 members. We are planted in southeast Nashville, a very vibrant and diverse community. This area is experiencing tremendous growth and economic development.
The church building is prominently located on a very busy and vital street for this area of the city. We are currently leasing this church building and we have an option to purchase. The facility includes a sanctuary with seating capacity of 900, 3 furnished offices, 1 furnished conference room, 7 furnished classrooms, a fully functional kitchen and a fellowship hall equipped with tables and chairs to accommodate 200. This building provides us with a tremendous opportunity to minister to our community. We look forward with eager anticipation to the continued growth of the ministry.
Join us on Sunday May 15, 2005 as we celebrate. I will be preaching in our morning worship celebration at 9:30 a.m. and the Chief Pastor of the 13th District, Bishop Vashti Murphy McKenzie will be preaching in our Pentecost Celebration at 6:30 p.m. I would love to see you there. We will be blessed by your prayers and enriched by your presence.
Partner with us as we seek "to meet the emergent needs of a diverse community through holistic ministry based on the Gospel of Jesus Christ." THE TIME IS NOW!!!
Passionately yours,
Roderick Dwayne Belin
615,332-3320
Fax: 615.332-3324
WWW.KAIROSCOMMUNITYCHURCH.ORG
3. HISTORIC ST. JOHN A.M.E., CLEVELAND, OHIO CELEBRATES 175TH ANNIVERSARY:
St. John African Methodist Episcopal Church located at 2261 E. 40th St. is the oldest African American Church in Greater Cleveland. St. John A.M.E. Church was founded in 1830 by the Rev. William Paul Quinn. The present location was purchased December 3, 1907 with Rev. Ira Collins as the pastor. The church was built at the cost of $55,000.00. The deal was reported to have been the largest real estate transaction by “Negroes” during the period.
St. John A.M.E. is 175 years old and was organized in 1830 with a membership of six. By 1945, its membership numbered 3,100 people.
A glance into past history of St. John A.M.E. reveals in 1848, the members purchased a lot for $300.00 on Bolivar St. east of Erie St. on the site of the Pick Carter Hotel (Carter Apartments). This location was considered the outskirts of the city. According to the 1848 city directory, there were 15 members. The church building was named Bolivar St. AME church and was built at the cost of $400 with a debt of $200. In 1863, property for a second church was purchased on Ohio Street. The church was known as the Ohio Street AME Church (1862-1878). In 1877, due to a fire that partly destroyed the church, the membership decided to move to a new location on Erie Street (now E. 9th St.). It was at this time that the church was renamed St. John AME Church even though many members referred to as “Old Erie Street Church”. Rev. Ira A. Collins was the minister.
In 1893, St. John suffered another fire at the Erie St. Church. Services were held in Giessen Hall at Central and Woodland. In 1907, under the administration of Rev. Ira A. Collins, land was purchased on Dec. 3, 1907 to build the present building located at 2241 E. 40th St.
In 1908, the cornerstone was laid; the new church was built for the sum of $55,000.00. A parade of uniformed bodies of Negro lodges of the city led by Phillegans Full Brass Band took place beginning at 24th street marching to 40th and Central. The Masons had charge of the corner stone laying and Bishop Derrick was the featured speaker. The event was of considerable significance to Cleveland Negroes since it was the first time in Cleveland’s history that Negroes erected a costly brick building for their worship.
Marian Anderson gave her first concert in Cleveland at St. John. The Rev. William Paul Quinn, the fourth bishop of the A.M.E. was responsible for organizing the A.M.E. denomination in 1830. The Rev. Richard Allen founder of the A.M.E. church was the first Bishop, elected and consecrated in 1816.
On Oct. 7, 1974, St. John A.M.E. Church was designated a Cleveland Historic Landmark and St. John was also placed on the National Register of Historical Places in 1982. In February 1995, the church was added to the African American Heritage Trail Tour (site No. 7) of historic places in the city of Cleveland.
St. John AME Church has been a part of the foundation in the community and the city of Cleveland. In 2008, our present building will be 100 years old. With new homes being constructed in the community, the new Pastor of St. John AME Church, Rev. Dr. Taylor T. Thompson’s goal is to renovate the church to a new shining light on Fortieth Street, going forward as the new St. John AME Church of the 21st Century, operating a seven day a week ministry and serving the greater Cleveland community.
Youth Ministry and YPD Luncheon and Fashion Show
Saturday, May 7, 2005, the youth ministry and YPD will be presenting a Mother’s Day Weekend luncheon and fashion show at St. John African Methodist Episcopal Church, 2261 E. 40th Street and Central, Cleveland, Ohio, 12 noon to 3 p.m. All are welcome; donations will be received at the door.
Children’s Retreat – Friday, May 13, 2005
Our children’s and youth ministry will host an overnight retreat for our children at St. John African Methodist Episcopal Church, 2261 E. 40th Street and Central, Cleveland, Ohio on Friday, May 13th. We will be involved in learning and sharing about our God in a Christian setting. If you would like for your children to be involved, please see Sister Gladys Richardson or call the church office for registration material
Women’s Missionary Society Weekend
The WMS has Mrs. Shirley Reed of Washington, D.C., past Connectional Recording Secretary of the WMS and author of a book and materials on developing a strong missionary society. Mrs. Reed will be our guest workshop leader on Saturday, May 14th from 9 a.m. to 12 noon at St. John African Methodist Episcopal Church, 2261 E. 40th Street and Central, Cleveland, Ohio. It is an excellent opportunity for the men and women to share in this workshop on missionary work. “The harvest is plentiful but the workers are few.” (Matthew 9.37) Please join us and note men can be affiliate members of the WMS. Praise the Lord
The Honorable Stephanie Tubbs Jones at St. John AME
On Sunday, May 22, 2005, Congresswoman Jones will be the guest speaker at St. John African Methodist Episcopal Church, 2261 E. 40th Street and Central, Cleveland, Ohio celebrating the Annual Women’s Day, at the 10:45 a.m. service. She is the first African American woman elected to the United States House of Representatives from Ohio and is now serving in her fourth term. Please join us. For more information, please call 216-431-2560
Pentecost Evangelistic Revival – June 6-7, 2005, 7 p.m.
Monday and Tuesday Night, June 6th and 7th, the Rev. Dr. Frank Madison Reid, III, pastor of Bethel AME Church, Baltimore and international evangelist, seen weekly on the TV cable Word Channel, will be our guest preacher at St. John African Methodist Episcopal Church, 2261 E. 40th Street and Central, Cleveland, Ohio. We look forward to a Hallelujah time in the Lord! “And when the day of Pentecost was fully come ... they were all filled with the Holy Spirit!” (Acts 2.1-4) Join us in revival and evangelistic outreach.
For more information, please call 216-431-2560.
Rev. Dr. Taylor T. Thompson, Pastor
Holy Communion to help unify United Methodist Church
May 4, 2005
4. THE CHAPLAINS CORNER:
- A Message from Deployed AME Chaplain, Lt Col, USAF Oledia F. Bell:
I pray that this e-mail finds all you and your families well. Although I am still on deployment I know that annual conference is here. It has been my practice to attend annual conference or send a report every year since coming on active duty in 1988.
Thank you all for your prayers on behalf of my family and the troops deployed here to Baghdad, Iraq. It is still a dangerous place to be and praise God my tour is almost complete. I am thankful that I am a part of this great Church of Allen. We pray for a Spirit-filled time in the LORD at all of the Annual Conferences in the Second Episcopal District and especially the Virginia Annual Conference, which is meeting this week and for everyone, may God rain down showers of blessings.
Please give my kindness regards to the Second Episcopal District’s Virginia Annual Conference, “Thank you for giving me wings!”
Very Respectfully,
OLEDIA F. BELL, Ch, Lt Col, USAF
Group Chaplain
447th Air Expeditionary Group/HC
Baghdad International Airport, Iraq
DSN (Miliatry and government telephones): 318-453-0204
- Chaplain Glenda Jennings Harrison selected to attend Duke University
- I imagine I was experiencing so much turmoil spiritually because the enemy knew God was getting ready to bless me real good. The Chaplain Corps has selected me to attend Duke University this fall to work on a M.Th degree in the area of Ethics. Please have my AME family to pray for me as I've been out of seminary for over 10 years. Be that as it may, since God has opened the door obviously I'm equipped enough to walk through. I have attached an article for publication and I'm praying for my AME church as we continue to be a beacon of light to the world.
Blessings,
Chaplain Glenda Jennings Harrison
Article for the Chaplain’s Corner
“Don’t Give Me Anymore Excuses”
“Your crown has been bought and paid for, all you must do is put it on your head.” James Baldwin
Excuses, excuses, excuses…one excuse after another; sounds like a broken record doesn’t it? I meant to put the car in the shop this afternoon, but something came up. I definitely need to take leave, but I have too much work to do. I really want to work on another degree, but I’m getting up in age. The myriad of excuses we often find to avoid doing the things we need to do plague many of us, yet all of us do it from time to time.
How many times have you found yourself looking for a reason not to do what you know you must? What is it that prevents you from putting your hand to the plow? What are you afraid of, and what do you lack? Do you have a plan of action, or is it hard for you to make a plan?
Many of us are excuse driven. Many of us are unable to make things happen and we wonder why the opportunities of life pass us by so frequently. As we begin to ponder these questions we must remember that we are a designer original and we were bought with a price.
Ours is to discover the uniqueness of who we are. We do this by embracing a dialectical process, which seeks to uncover our particular talent, that special gift, which is our ticket to success. As we walk about this journey, we must view it as the first episode of a long-running series. Each experience doesn’t’ have to be detrimental to our existence, because all of us have gleaned some lessons in life already.
When we feel we are flying solo, it is important to gain a clearer understanding by paying particular attention to our surroundings. Instead of watching that basketball game, or “As the World Turns” we need to turn on the Discovery Channel and take note of lessons nature can teach us. In fact, according to the book of Proverbs, there are four creatures on earth that “are exceedingly wise” – The ant, the badger, the locust and the spider.
An examination of these four creatures gives us a much-needed understanding of the harmful effects of excuse making. For example, the ant is concerned with preparation. There must be food for the harvest to provide for the welfare of the colony throughout the winter. Therefore, an excuse would ultimately threaten the colony’s existence and an excuse cannot be tolerated.
The badger is considered a mammal of little strength, and in its wisdom is cognizant that safety is an important issue. Accordingly, the badger builds its home wisely, up high and between rocks. Protection is the key to life for the badger. No excuses can be tolerated. Unlike the honeybees who are led by the queen, the locusts are without leadership, therefore in order for them to survive it is necessary that they cooperate and travel in an orderly fashion. In so doing, this guarantees their existence.
Again, any excuse to the contrary cannot be tolerated. Finally, the spider the most cunning of all the insects is fearless and bold. It can build a web anywhere, at anytime and under any conditions. The spider exhibits no fear as it resides in places of authority where excuses are not tolerated.
The challenge is presented, the examples made plain. What is your response? Will you continue to say “woulda, shoulda, thought I coulda?” Or, will you prepare like the ant; build wisely like the badger; seek support from those who share your goals like the locust and stand fearless and with assurance like the spider? Do you know that you were bought with a price? Do you realize that “you,” yes, that’s correct; “you” are to God a priceless treasure of humanity - a treasure for whom excuses cannot be tolerated? Now go forth and make a difference.
Chaplain Glenda Jennings Harrison
5. NEWS FROM THE UNITED METHODIST NEWS SERVICE:
By Deborah White*
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (UMNS)--A growing interest in Holy Communion can unify and revitalize the United Methodist Church, said leaders of an international conference focusing on the sacrament.
The conference, "Teaching the Sacrament - Improving the Practice," was held at the United Methodist Board of Discipleship in Nashville, Tenn. It attracted more than 100 clergy and other church leaders from as far away as Singapore, Canada and Alaska.
The April 26-28 conference was the first offered since the denomination's top legislative body, the General Conference, adopted a 16-page study of Holy Communion as the church's official, interpretive statement on the sacrament during its 2004 session. The study, "This Holy Mystery: A United Methodist Understanding of Holy Communion," clarifies the tradition, theology and practice of Holy Communion.
The General Conference, the denomination's top legislative body, "unleashed a growing interest in communion," said the Rev. Daniel T. Benedict Jr., a staff executive with the Board of Discipleship's worship section.
United Methodist congregations are encouraged to move toward a richer sacramental life, including weekly celebration of the Lord's Supper. A seven-session study edition of "This Holy Mystery" was introduced to the conference participants. It includes commentary and guidelines for study groups.
During the opening worship service, participants prayed for a new sense of mystery and grace and for the Holy Communion table to become a uniting place.
"This is a very important moment in the life of our church," said retired Bishop Joseph Pennel, now a professor at Vanderbilt Divinity School, Nashville, Tenn. "We need teaching around Holy Communion because this is one place people - month after month - can have the experience without knowing the meaning."
With so many expressions of United Methodism today, Pennel asked, "Could it be that baptism and Holy Communion might be practiced in such a way that it will hold us together? We're at a time when we need to consider what to teach, how to teach and what to do."
Many United Methodist clergy need to improve how they preside at the communion table, Pennel and other leaders said.
In a workshop titled "Presiding with Grace and Freedom," Benedict coached participants in leading Holy Communion smoothly, reminding them that their actions signify "receiving the richness of God." They discussed rhythm, tonality, continuity, flow, emotion, showing hospitality, gestures, formality and informality. "If we're awkward and embarrassed, they will be awkward and embarrassed," he cautioned.
Benedict said that even if styles of ministry are different, there should be unity in the practice of Holy Communion. "It's when we trivialize it . . . when we are excessive about innovation and creativity, we're on thin ice," he said.
During the workshop, the Rev. Jim Doepken, pastor of Girdwood (Alaska) Chapel United Methodist Church, said Holy Communion in his one-room church is informal, but he uses the full liturgy. "You can be liturgical but down home or laid back as well," he said.
United Methodists are interested in the sacraments, but are also confused by them, said the Rev. Gayle Felton, principal author of "This Holy Mystery."
"The purpose of this week is to try to help us move from confusion to clarity," she said. "We have a lot of the former and not a great deal of the latter."
The intent of "This Holy Mystery" is not to lay down an authoritarian formula, but to provide guidance and direction, she said. "Also it might move us from apathy to enthusiasm. We have de-emphasized sacraments. The road to recovery is to recover our heritage - become Wesleyan again."
In a panel discussion about moving to a richer and more frequent communion, retired Bishop Kenneth Carder advised participants to have patience as congregations increase the frequency of Holy Communion from every month or every quarter to every week. "It involves creating a new culture," said Carder, now a professor at United Methodist-related Duke Divinity School, Durham, N.C.
The Rev. Joseph Daniels, pastor of Emory United Methodist Church in Washington suggested, "Jump into it and teach as you go." He led his congregation into offering Holy Communion on a weekly basis last summer. The impact has been profound, including a more unified congregation and an increase in attendance, he noted.
"The very act of communion, the sacrament itself, forces us to break down the barriers," Daniels said. "It's all because we have placed emphasis on the table."
Clergy have taken an active role in moving churches to weekly communion, noted the Rev. Mark Stamm, a professor at United Methodist-related Perkins School of Theology, Dallas. Stamm is involved with the Order of Saint Luke, an organization dedicated to liturgical study and education.
The Rev. Valerie Bridgeman-Davis, a professor of preaching and worship at Memphis (Tenn.) Theological Seminary, called for prophetic leadership. "We often are so scared about pushing people. People are willing to do more than we give them credit for," she said.
In the closing session, Carder said there is a connection between Holy Communion and accounts in the Gospel of Luke about Jesus eating meals. "He eats with tax collectors and sinners," Carder said. "Jesus' life around the table is a challenge … and a source of help. God's justice, generosity and joy are prevailing values. That new world dawns at the table, is celebrated around the table, nurtured at the table and empowered around the table."
"This Holy Mystery" Carder said, "seeks to respond to critical issues raised in Luke about who is in charge, who is host, who is invited and how we are to behave."
The Holy Communion table is a continuation of the many tables Jesus and the disciples shared, he said. "What He said about other tables comes to fruition at this table. Look at all the dinners Jesus attended and see how he turned the tables," Carder said, sparking an enthusiastic reaction from the participants.
Carder emphasized the importance of including poor people at Holy Communion. "You can't have sacramental renewal if the poor aren't present," he said. "When we gather at the table, it is the meal in the new order of things, especially when we are coming with all of God's children."
*White is associate editor of Interpreter Magazine and Interpreter OnLine.
News media contact: Deborah White News (615) 742-5470 or newsdesk@umcom.org.
6. ARTIST J. MORRIS METZE TO UNVEIL “GLORY TO GOD, GUARDING OUR LEGACY”:
Columbia, S.C. - A Columbia artist, minister and college student is set to unveil a limited series art print that analyzes and celebrates the 218-yea-old African Methodism movement.
The Reverend J. Morris Metze will unveil “Glory to God, Guarding our Legacy” on Saturday, May 14, at 11 a.m. at Saint Paul African Method Episcopal (AME) Church, 835 Kennerly Road, Irmo, S. C. Metze is an assistant pastor at Saint Paul and a senior business administration major at Allen University.
The art print depicts a cross and anvil, surrounding by African mosaics with children’s hands “reaching from the abyss.” The cross and anvil are traditionally used in the emblem of the AME domination. They represent the location of the first AME house of worship in a former blacksmith shop in the late 18th Century Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
According to the artist, “This work of art may be just the most significant work produces in the 218-year history of African Methodism.”
Each church throughout our Connection should have one for their narthex, fellowship hall or pastor’s study, “Metze added. And, the print is suitable to hang in a professional office or home.”
The event will also feature a pre-publication review of the unpublished book, “Letters to Saint Paul,” and the debut of a new work of sacred music, “You are Welcome. Want-a You Come.” Metze created both the book and sacred music. Allen University English Professor John Preacher will conduct the book review. The sacred music will be debuted by Relda Ogleton, who also transcribed the piece. The performance will be followed by a message from Metze, entitled, Glory to God, Guarding our Legacy.” The event will be officiated by the Rev. Dr. William Smith, Jr., Presiding Elder of the Columbia District of the AME Church.
An exhibit of other works of art by Metze will be on display until 7 p.m. in the church’s educational building. The artist will be on hand to sign and number the limited edition prints. Following the May 14th event, the print may be viewed and purchased at Cokesbury Books and Church Supplies, 2730 Broad River Road, Columbia, S.C.
For additional information, contact J. Morris Metze at (803) 407-2316 or email JMMetzeConsultin@AOL.com
7. FUNERAL NOTICE:
Mrs. Earnestine Watson, mother of Rev. Moses Green (12th district) will be funeralized on Saturday, May 7, 2005, 12:00 noon at the Bethel A.M.E. Church, West Memphis, Arkansas 2403 East Barton, West Memphis, Arkansas 72301.
Arrangements are with the wolf brothers’ funeral home, 128 so. 7th Street, West Memphis, Arkansas 72301, 870-735-5855.
Thank you,
Anita Brannon
12th District Office Manager
Please remember the family in your prayers.
8. FUNERAL NOTICE:
We regret to inform you of the passing of Mrs. Gretchen Morton, grandmother of Rev. Jocelyn Hart, who is the pastor of St. John AMEC – Niagara Falls. The following information has been provided regarding funeral arrangements.
Funeral – Friday, May 6, 2005
Service – 11:00 a.m.
Vermont Avenue Baptist Church
1630 Vermont Avenue NW
Washington, DC 20009
Fax: 202-667-1492
Condolences may be sent to:
Rev. Jocelyn Hart
C/o Vermont Avenue Baptist Church
1630 Vermont Avenue NW
Washington, DC 20009
Please remember the Hart family in your prayers during this time of their bereavement.
9. FUNERAL LOCATION CHANGE:
The funeral service for Rev. Thomas R. Jones on Thursday May 5, 2005 was moved to New Psalmist Baptist Church which is located at 4501 Old Frederick Avenue, Baltimore Maryland 21229 410-945-3000. The wake was from 10:30 AM-11:30 AM and the funeral service was to follow.
--
Rev. Dr. Joan L. Wharton
Mt. Zion AME Church
"I can do all things through
Christ who gives me the strength
10. ALL FUNERAL AND BEREAVEMENT NOTICES PROVIDED BY:
Sister 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
The Reverend Dr. Johnny Barbour, Jr., Publisher
The Reverend Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III, Editor
1. EDITOR’S CORNER:
- The Associated Press featured a story about an AME minister and his wife who were arrested and charged with arson in Summerville, SC on Tuesday for burning their church building down. The New York Times and other newspapers picked up the story and released an article yesterday. I mention it because it’s in the media and certainly our prayers go out to the Bethel AME Church family in Summerville. This has to be a trying time for the pastor and his wife, that congregation and the surrounding community. Keep them in your prayers remember that person(s) are innocent until proven guilty.
- More of the account of my visit to Johannesburg, South Africa and Harare, Zimbabwe to attend the Global Development Council and a little historical background about the Global Development Council
To pick up where I left off, we arrived at the International Airport of Harare at about 9 p.m. local time and were met by Bishop Messiah. We were taken to the Harare Sheraton Hotel where we were met by Episcopal Supervisor, Mother Carol Messiah. Our rooms were ready after getting settled in our rooms and after attending the welcome reception, we retired for the night.
Bishops Wilfred Messiah, James Davis, Carolyn Tyler Guidry, Samuel Green, and Sarah Davis had a late night meeting to finalize the agenda for the GDC that was going to have its opening session on Wednesday morning.
The ministerial and lay leadership from the overseas Districts 16 – 20 had arrived and were ready to do the work of the Church as it relates to global ministry.
Wednesday morning, April 27th was beautiful. Sunrise arrived early and after a breakfast of eggs, bacon, baked beans, fresh bread and coffee, we moved to the first session of the Global Development Council. There were about 100 participants at the GDC meeting.
The bishops, General Officers, Connectional Officers and Episcopal Supervisors were introduced and presented to the GDC participants. Bishop James Davis chaired the opening session of the meeting and conducted the organizational business of the GDC and eloquently handled the election of officers. Bishop Wilfred Messiah was unanimously elected to be the chair of the GDC for the next two years.
A little historical background of the GDC
As a way of explaining the mission of the GDC, I am extracting some of the information from a handout that was distributed at the conference.
The GDC is concerned about Global witness and development in Africa, the nations of the Caribbean, South America, the British Isles, and Europe.
In the 1980-1984 Quadrennium, bishops of the African Methodist Episcopal Church began to address the multiple stress points emanating from Africa. There was a concern about the lack of Africans that had been elected to the Episcopacy. Also there apparently there were concerns with the Article of Religion as to how it addressed allegiance to civil authority, especially allegiance to the government of the United States.
The 1996 Doctrine and Discipline of the AME Church provided for the formation of a commission to determine the programmatic opportunities and timelines for maximum development in Episcopal Districts 14 – 19 (now 20). “In 1997, the Council of Bishops authorized the Right Reverend Harold Ben Senatle, senior bishop in Africa, to call a historic all-Africa summit to address continental commonalities and concerns. The first meeting was held in Johannesburg and included the participation and leadership of Bishops C. Garnett Henning, Richard Allen Chappelle, Sr. and Adam J. Richardson, Jr. who were serving in Africa, and Bishops Donald G. K. Ming and McKinley Young who were serving districts in the United States.
The Africa Jurisdictional Committee (AJC)
Another summit was held in March 1999 in South Africa. Out of that summit was “birthed” the Africa Jurisdictional Committee (AJC) which produced a document, the Africa Jurisdictional Authority Bill (AJC Bill), which was referred to the annual conferences in Africa.
A third summit was held in Mafikeng, South Africa. The AJC Bill was approved by the African Episcopal Districts and subsequently, with minor amendments, at the 2000 General Conference. The bishops who were assigned to Africa, Bishops Adam J. Richardson, Richard F. Norris, Vashti Murphy McKenzie, Gregory G. M. Ingram and Preston W. Williams, along with retired Bishop, H. B. Senatle and C. Garnett Henning, the chair of the Commission on Africa Development, continued to work diligently.
Name changed from the Africa Jurisdictional Committee to the Global Development Council
At the 2004 General Conference, the name of the Africa Jurisdictional Authority was changed to the Global Development Council to represent “the global interest of he Church’s ministry beyond the borders of the United States.” The GDC has been challenged to provide equitable development for the life and leadership opportunities of its members and ministries in Africa, the nations of the Caribbean, South America, the British Isles and Europe.
The mission of the GDC is to implement the mission and purpose of the AME Church; establish opportunities for developing clergy and lay leadership in the church; unite all AME Churches in Africa, the nations of the Caribbean, South America, the British isles, and Europe; determine the potential resources of he AME Church, develop and implement programs for the maximum development of the congregations; promote economic development and health initiatives; secure for members in the global community, opportunities for service in the ministry of governance; promote deeper understanding, collaboration, and cohesion among the AME Churches in Africa, the nations of the Caribbean, South America, the British Isles, Europe, and Canada with those of the United States.
Among the membership of the GDC are all of the active and retired bishops; general officers, connectional officers and field representatives, members of the General Board, supervisors and presidents of episcopal auxiliaries and organizations residing and serving in GDC episcopal districts.
The GDC is directed to hold biennial meetings and the Executive Board, which includes all of the bishops serving in Africa and the presiding bishop of the Sixteenth Episcopal District, is to meet annually.
The first Session
The GDC chair, Bishop Wilfred Messiah, gave the participants an opportunity to share their concerns and a spirited discussion ensued. It appeared that there was a perception that the AME Church in the United States should be doing more to assist the overseas districts. That went on for a while and appeared to be gaining some momentum when Bishop Davis went to the podium and acknowledged what he was hearing about what the participants were saying about the need for more assistance from the districts in the United States. He went on to say that the direction of the dialogue, in his opinion, was going against the grain of the historical and spiritual foundation of the African Methodist Episcopal Church; that we have always been a church in struggle and with economic constraints, but that never hindered our growth and spiritual focus. He observed that in the discussions that he heard about what was not being done, but nothing about the Holy Spirit’s work in the life of the Church. He was taken back that no one had mentioned what God could do or what God was doing. And following his line of thinking, Sister Passion A. N. Musa, the 20th Episcopal District President and Connectional 3rd Vice President of the Women's Missionary Society of AME Church, gave a passionate affirmation of what Bishop James Davis’ comments by encouraging the participants to accept the biblical principles of tithing and went on to say that the GDC participants in that room had the resources to bring about change in the overseas districts. In a moving and passionate voice, Sister Musa encouraged the participants to embrace, for themselves and to encourage others to tithe and to seek a deeper spiritual underpinning. One could feel the “Sweet, Sweet Spirit” in that place.
We broke for lunch on a high note. (To be continued)
In the next edition of The Christian Recorder Online I will share the great comments of Bishops Wilfred Messiah, Carolyn Tyler Guidry, Sam Green and Sarah Davis and some of the other participants.
2. KAIROS COMMUNITY AME CHURCH, 4605 NOLENSVILLE PIKE, NASHVILLE TENNESSEE 37211 CELEBRATES PENTECOST:
Greetings in the name of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ!
I am writing to share with you how God is blessing us in the establishment of the Kairos Community Church and to invite you to join us on Pentecost Sunday, May 15, 2005 as we celebrate the opening of this great church.
The first AME Church to be planted in Nashville since 1911, Kairos Community Church has been worshiping together since February 13, 2005 and we have now grown to 25 members. We are planted in southeast Nashville, a very vibrant and diverse community. This area is experiencing tremendous growth and economic development.
The church building is prominently located on a very busy and vital street for this area of the city. We are currently leasing this church building and we have an option to purchase. The facility includes a sanctuary with seating capacity of 900, 3 furnished offices, 1 furnished conference room, 7 furnished classrooms, a fully functional kitchen and a fellowship hall equipped with tables and chairs to accommodate 200. This building provides us with a tremendous opportunity to minister to our community. We look forward with eager anticipation to the continued growth of the ministry.
Join us on Sunday May 15, 2005 as we celebrate. I will be preaching in our morning worship celebration at 9:30 a.m. and the Chief Pastor of the 13th District, Bishop Vashti Murphy McKenzie will be preaching in our Pentecost Celebration at 6:30 p.m. I would love to see you there. We will be blessed by your prayers and enriched by your presence.
Partner with us as we seek "to meet the emergent needs of a diverse community through holistic ministry based on the Gospel of Jesus Christ." THE TIME IS NOW!!!
Passionately yours,
Roderick Dwayne Belin
615,332-3320
Fax: 615.332-3324
WWW.KAIROSCOMMUNITYCHURCH.ORG
3. HISTORIC ST. JOHN A.M.E., CLEVELAND, OHIO CELEBRATES 175TH ANNIVERSARY:
St. John African Methodist Episcopal Church located at 2261 E. 40th St. is the oldest African American Church in Greater Cleveland. St. John A.M.E. Church was founded in 1830 by the Rev. William Paul Quinn. The present location was purchased December 3, 1907 with Rev. Ira Collins as the pastor. The church was built at the cost of $55,000.00. The deal was reported to have been the largest real estate transaction by “Negroes” during the period.
St. John A.M.E. is 175 years old and was organized in 1830 with a membership of six. By 1945, its membership numbered 3,100 people.
A glance into past history of St. John A.M.E. reveals in 1848, the members purchased a lot for $300.00 on Bolivar St. east of Erie St. on the site of the Pick Carter Hotel (Carter Apartments). This location was considered the outskirts of the city. According to the 1848 city directory, there were 15 members. The church building was named Bolivar St. AME church and was built at the cost of $400 with a debt of $200. In 1863, property for a second church was purchased on Ohio Street. The church was known as the Ohio Street AME Church (1862-1878). In 1877, due to a fire that partly destroyed the church, the membership decided to move to a new location on Erie Street (now E. 9th St.). It was at this time that the church was renamed St. John AME Church even though many members referred to as “Old Erie Street Church”. Rev. Ira A. Collins was the minister.
In 1893, St. John suffered another fire at the Erie St. Church. Services were held in Giessen Hall at Central and Woodland. In 1907, under the administration of Rev. Ira A. Collins, land was purchased on Dec. 3, 1907 to build the present building located at 2241 E. 40th St.
In 1908, the cornerstone was laid; the new church was built for the sum of $55,000.00. A parade of uniformed bodies of Negro lodges of the city led by Phillegans Full Brass Band took place beginning at 24th street marching to 40th and Central. The Masons had charge of the corner stone laying and Bishop Derrick was the featured speaker. The event was of considerable significance to Cleveland Negroes since it was the first time in Cleveland’s history that Negroes erected a costly brick building for their worship.
Marian Anderson gave her first concert in Cleveland at St. John. The Rev. William Paul Quinn, the fourth bishop of the A.M.E. was responsible for organizing the A.M.E. denomination in 1830. The Rev. Richard Allen founder of the A.M.E. church was the first Bishop, elected and consecrated in 1816.
On Oct. 7, 1974, St. John A.M.E. Church was designated a Cleveland Historic Landmark and St. John was also placed on the National Register of Historical Places in 1982. In February 1995, the church was added to the African American Heritage Trail Tour (site No. 7) of historic places in the city of Cleveland.
St. John AME Church has been a part of the foundation in the community and the city of Cleveland. In 2008, our present building will be 100 years old. With new homes being constructed in the community, the new Pastor of St. John AME Church, Rev. Dr. Taylor T. Thompson’s goal is to renovate the church to a new shining light on Fortieth Street, going forward as the new St. John AME Church of the 21st Century, operating a seven day a week ministry and serving the greater Cleveland community.
Youth Ministry and YPD Luncheon and Fashion Show
Saturday, May 7, 2005, the youth ministry and YPD will be presenting a Mother’s Day Weekend luncheon and fashion show at St. John African Methodist Episcopal Church, 2261 E. 40th Street and Central, Cleveland, Ohio, 12 noon to 3 p.m. All are welcome; donations will be received at the door.
Children’s Retreat – Friday, May 13, 2005
Our children’s and youth ministry will host an overnight retreat for our children at St. John African Methodist Episcopal Church, 2261 E. 40th Street and Central, Cleveland, Ohio on Friday, May 13th. We will be involved in learning and sharing about our God in a Christian setting. If you would like for your children to be involved, please see Sister Gladys Richardson or call the church office for registration material
Women’s Missionary Society Weekend
The WMS has Mrs. Shirley Reed of Washington, D.C., past Connectional Recording Secretary of the WMS and author of a book and materials on developing a strong missionary society. Mrs. Reed will be our guest workshop leader on Saturday, May 14th from 9 a.m. to 12 noon at St. John African Methodist Episcopal Church, 2261 E. 40th Street and Central, Cleveland, Ohio. It is an excellent opportunity for the men and women to share in this workshop on missionary work. “The harvest is plentiful but the workers are few.” (Matthew 9.37) Please join us and note men can be affiliate members of the WMS. Praise the Lord
The Honorable Stephanie Tubbs Jones at St. John AME
On Sunday, May 22, 2005, Congresswoman Jones will be the guest speaker at St. John African Methodist Episcopal Church, 2261 E. 40th Street and Central, Cleveland, Ohio celebrating the Annual Women’s Day, at the 10:45 a.m. service. She is the first African American woman elected to the United States House of Representatives from Ohio and is now serving in her fourth term. Please join us. For more information, please call 216-431-2560
Pentecost Evangelistic Revival – June 6-7, 2005, 7 p.m.
Monday and Tuesday Night, June 6th and 7th, the Rev. Dr. Frank Madison Reid, III, pastor of Bethel AME Church, Baltimore and international evangelist, seen weekly on the TV cable Word Channel, will be our guest preacher at St. John African Methodist Episcopal Church, 2261 E. 40th Street and Central, Cleveland, Ohio. We look forward to a Hallelujah time in the Lord! “And when the day of Pentecost was fully come ... they were all filled with the Holy Spirit!” (Acts 2.1-4) Join us in revival and evangelistic outreach.
For more information, please call 216-431-2560.
Rev. Dr. Taylor T. Thompson, Pastor
Holy Communion to help unify United Methodist Church
May 4, 2005
4. THE CHAPLAINS CORNER:
- A Message from Deployed AME Chaplain, Lt Col, USAF Oledia F. Bell:
I pray that this e-mail finds all you and your families well. Although I am still on deployment I know that annual conference is here. It has been my practice to attend annual conference or send a report every year since coming on active duty in 1988.
Thank you all for your prayers on behalf of my family and the troops deployed here to Baghdad, Iraq. It is still a dangerous place to be and praise God my tour is almost complete. I am thankful that I am a part of this great Church of Allen. We pray for a Spirit-filled time in the LORD at all of the Annual Conferences in the Second Episcopal District and especially the Virginia Annual Conference, which is meeting this week and for everyone, may God rain down showers of blessings.
Please give my kindness regards to the Second Episcopal District’s Virginia Annual Conference, “Thank you for giving me wings!”
Very Respectfully,
OLEDIA F. BELL, Ch, Lt Col, USAF
Group Chaplain
447th Air Expeditionary Group/HC
Baghdad International Airport, Iraq
DSN (Miliatry and government telephones): 318-453-0204
- Chaplain Glenda Jennings Harrison selected to attend Duke University
- I imagine I was experiencing so much turmoil spiritually because the enemy knew God was getting ready to bless me real good. The Chaplain Corps has selected me to attend Duke University this fall to work on a M.Th degree in the area of Ethics. Please have my AME family to pray for me as I've been out of seminary for over 10 years. Be that as it may, since God has opened the door obviously I'm equipped enough to walk through. I have attached an article for publication and I'm praying for my AME church as we continue to be a beacon of light to the world.
Blessings,
Chaplain Glenda Jennings Harrison
Article for the Chaplain’s Corner
“Don’t Give Me Anymore Excuses”
“Your crown has been bought and paid for, all you must do is put it on your head.” James Baldwin
Excuses, excuses, excuses…one excuse after another; sounds like a broken record doesn’t it? I meant to put the car in the shop this afternoon, but something came up. I definitely need to take leave, but I have too much work to do. I really want to work on another degree, but I’m getting up in age. The myriad of excuses we often find to avoid doing the things we need to do plague many of us, yet all of us do it from time to time.
How many times have you found yourself looking for a reason not to do what you know you must? What is it that prevents you from putting your hand to the plow? What are you afraid of, and what do you lack? Do you have a plan of action, or is it hard for you to make a plan?
Many of us are excuse driven. Many of us are unable to make things happen and we wonder why the opportunities of life pass us by so frequently. As we begin to ponder these questions we must remember that we are a designer original and we were bought with a price.
Ours is to discover the uniqueness of who we are. We do this by embracing a dialectical process, which seeks to uncover our particular talent, that special gift, which is our ticket to success. As we walk about this journey, we must view it as the first episode of a long-running series. Each experience doesn’t’ have to be detrimental to our existence, because all of us have gleaned some lessons in life already.
When we feel we are flying solo, it is important to gain a clearer understanding by paying particular attention to our surroundings. Instead of watching that basketball game, or “As the World Turns” we need to turn on the Discovery Channel and take note of lessons nature can teach us. In fact, according to the book of Proverbs, there are four creatures on earth that “are exceedingly wise” – The ant, the badger, the locust and the spider.
An examination of these four creatures gives us a much-needed understanding of the harmful effects of excuse making. For example, the ant is concerned with preparation. There must be food for the harvest to provide for the welfare of the colony throughout the winter. Therefore, an excuse would ultimately threaten the colony’s existence and an excuse cannot be tolerated.
The badger is considered a mammal of little strength, and in its wisdom is cognizant that safety is an important issue. Accordingly, the badger builds its home wisely, up high and between rocks. Protection is the key to life for the badger. No excuses can be tolerated. Unlike the honeybees who are led by the queen, the locusts are without leadership, therefore in order for them to survive it is necessary that they cooperate and travel in an orderly fashion. In so doing, this guarantees their existence.
Again, any excuse to the contrary cannot be tolerated. Finally, the spider the most cunning of all the insects is fearless and bold. It can build a web anywhere, at anytime and under any conditions. The spider exhibits no fear as it resides in places of authority where excuses are not tolerated.
The challenge is presented, the examples made plain. What is your response? Will you continue to say “woulda, shoulda, thought I coulda?” Or, will you prepare like the ant; build wisely like the badger; seek support from those who share your goals like the locust and stand fearless and with assurance like the spider? Do you know that you were bought with a price? Do you realize that “you,” yes, that’s correct; “you” are to God a priceless treasure of humanity - a treasure for whom excuses cannot be tolerated? Now go forth and make a difference.
Chaplain Glenda Jennings Harrison
5. NEWS FROM THE UNITED METHODIST NEWS SERVICE:
By Deborah White*
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (UMNS)--A growing interest in Holy Communion can unify and revitalize the United Methodist Church, said leaders of an international conference focusing on the sacrament.
The conference, "Teaching the Sacrament - Improving the Practice," was held at the United Methodist Board of Discipleship in Nashville, Tenn. It attracted more than 100 clergy and other church leaders from as far away as Singapore, Canada and Alaska.
The April 26-28 conference was the first offered since the denomination's top legislative body, the General Conference, adopted a 16-page study of Holy Communion as the church's official, interpretive statement on the sacrament during its 2004 session. The study, "This Holy Mystery: A United Methodist Understanding of Holy Communion," clarifies the tradition, theology and practice of Holy Communion.
The General Conference, the denomination's top legislative body, "unleashed a growing interest in communion," said the Rev. Daniel T. Benedict Jr., a staff executive with the Board of Discipleship's worship section.
United Methodist congregations are encouraged to move toward a richer sacramental life, including weekly celebration of the Lord's Supper. A seven-session study edition of "This Holy Mystery" was introduced to the conference participants. It includes commentary and guidelines for study groups.
During the opening worship service, participants prayed for a new sense of mystery and grace and for the Holy Communion table to become a uniting place.
"This is a very important moment in the life of our church," said retired Bishop Joseph Pennel, now a professor at Vanderbilt Divinity School, Nashville, Tenn. "We need teaching around Holy Communion because this is one place people - month after month - can have the experience without knowing the meaning."
With so many expressions of United Methodism today, Pennel asked, "Could it be that baptism and Holy Communion might be practiced in such a way that it will hold us together? We're at a time when we need to consider what to teach, how to teach and what to do."
Many United Methodist clergy need to improve how they preside at the communion table, Pennel and other leaders said.
In a workshop titled "Presiding with Grace and Freedom," Benedict coached participants in leading Holy Communion smoothly, reminding them that their actions signify "receiving the richness of God." They discussed rhythm, tonality, continuity, flow, emotion, showing hospitality, gestures, formality and informality. "If we're awkward and embarrassed, they will be awkward and embarrassed," he cautioned.
Benedict said that even if styles of ministry are different, there should be unity in the practice of Holy Communion. "It's when we trivialize it . . . when we are excessive about innovation and creativity, we're on thin ice," he said.
During the workshop, the Rev. Jim Doepken, pastor of Girdwood (Alaska) Chapel United Methodist Church, said Holy Communion in his one-room church is informal, but he uses the full liturgy. "You can be liturgical but down home or laid back as well," he said.
United Methodists are interested in the sacraments, but are also confused by them, said the Rev. Gayle Felton, principal author of "This Holy Mystery."
"The purpose of this week is to try to help us move from confusion to clarity," she said. "We have a lot of the former and not a great deal of the latter."
The intent of "This Holy Mystery" is not to lay down an authoritarian formula, but to provide guidance and direction, she said. "Also it might move us from apathy to enthusiasm. We have de-emphasized sacraments. The road to recovery is to recover our heritage - become Wesleyan again."
In a panel discussion about moving to a richer and more frequent communion, retired Bishop Kenneth Carder advised participants to have patience as congregations increase the frequency of Holy Communion from every month or every quarter to every week. "It involves creating a new culture," said Carder, now a professor at United Methodist-related Duke Divinity School, Durham, N.C.
The Rev. Joseph Daniels, pastor of Emory United Methodist Church in Washington suggested, "Jump into it and teach as you go." He led his congregation into offering Holy Communion on a weekly basis last summer. The impact has been profound, including a more unified congregation and an increase in attendance, he noted.
"The very act of communion, the sacrament itself, forces us to break down the barriers," Daniels said. "It's all because we have placed emphasis on the table."
Clergy have taken an active role in moving churches to weekly communion, noted the Rev. Mark Stamm, a professor at United Methodist-related Perkins School of Theology, Dallas. Stamm is involved with the Order of Saint Luke, an organization dedicated to liturgical study and education.
The Rev. Valerie Bridgeman-Davis, a professor of preaching and worship at Memphis (Tenn.) Theological Seminary, called for prophetic leadership. "We often are so scared about pushing people. People are willing to do more than we give them credit for," she said.
In the closing session, Carder said there is a connection between Holy Communion and accounts in the Gospel of Luke about Jesus eating meals. "He eats with tax collectors and sinners," Carder said. "Jesus' life around the table is a challenge … and a source of help. God's justice, generosity and joy are prevailing values. That new world dawns at the table, is celebrated around the table, nurtured at the table and empowered around the table."
"This Holy Mystery" Carder said, "seeks to respond to critical issues raised in Luke about who is in charge, who is host, who is invited and how we are to behave."
The Holy Communion table is a continuation of the many tables Jesus and the disciples shared, he said. "What He said about other tables comes to fruition at this table. Look at all the dinners Jesus attended and see how he turned the tables," Carder said, sparking an enthusiastic reaction from the participants.
Carder emphasized the importance of including poor people at Holy Communion. "You can't have sacramental renewal if the poor aren't present," he said. "When we gather at the table, it is the meal in the new order of things, especially when we are coming with all of God's children."
*White is associate editor of Interpreter Magazine and Interpreter OnLine.
News media contact: Deborah White News (615) 742-5470 or newsdesk@umcom.org.
6. ARTIST J. MORRIS METZE TO UNVEIL “GLORY TO GOD, GUARDING OUR LEGACY”:
Columbia, S.C. - A Columbia artist, minister and college student is set to unveil a limited series art print that analyzes and celebrates the 218-yea-old African Methodism movement.
The Reverend J. Morris Metze will unveil “Glory to God, Guarding our Legacy” on Saturday, May 14, at 11 a.m. at Saint Paul African Method Episcopal (AME) Church, 835 Kennerly Road, Irmo, S. C. Metze is an assistant pastor at Saint Paul and a senior business administration major at Allen University.
The art print depicts a cross and anvil, surrounding by African mosaics with children’s hands “reaching from the abyss.” The cross and anvil are traditionally used in the emblem of the AME domination. They represent the location of the first AME house of worship in a former blacksmith shop in the late 18th Century Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
According to the artist, “This work of art may be just the most significant work produces in the 218-year history of African Methodism.”
Each church throughout our Connection should have one for their narthex, fellowship hall or pastor’s study, “Metze added. And, the print is suitable to hang in a professional office or home.”
The event will also feature a pre-publication review of the unpublished book, “Letters to Saint Paul,” and the debut of a new work of sacred music, “You are Welcome. Want-a You Come.” Metze created both the book and sacred music. Allen University English Professor John Preacher will conduct the book review. The sacred music will be debuted by Relda Ogleton, who also transcribed the piece. The performance will be followed by a message from Metze, entitled, Glory to God, Guarding our Legacy.” The event will be officiated by the Rev. Dr. William Smith, Jr., Presiding Elder of the Columbia District of the AME Church.
An exhibit of other works of art by Metze will be on display until 7 p.m. in the church’s educational building. The artist will be on hand to sign and number the limited edition prints. Following the May 14th event, the print may be viewed and purchased at Cokesbury Books and Church Supplies, 2730 Broad River Road, Columbia, S.C.
For additional information, contact J. Morris Metze at (803) 407-2316 or email JMMetzeConsultin@AOL.com
7. FUNERAL NOTICE:
Mrs. Earnestine Watson, mother of Rev. Moses Green (12th district) will be funeralized on Saturday, May 7, 2005, 12:00 noon at the Bethel A.M.E. Church, West Memphis, Arkansas 2403 East Barton, West Memphis, Arkansas 72301.
Arrangements are with the wolf brothers’ funeral home, 128 so. 7th Street, West Memphis, Arkansas 72301, 870-735-5855.
Thank you,
Anita Brannon
12th District Office Manager
Please remember the family in your prayers.
8. FUNERAL NOTICE:
We regret to inform you of the passing of Mrs. Gretchen Morton, grandmother of Rev. Jocelyn Hart, who is the pastor of St. John AMEC – Niagara Falls. The following information has been provided regarding funeral arrangements.
Funeral – Friday, May 6, 2005
Service – 11:00 a.m.
Vermont Avenue Baptist Church
1630 Vermont Avenue NW
Washington, DC 20009
Fax: 202-667-1492
Condolences may be sent to:
Rev. Jocelyn Hart
C/o Vermont Avenue Baptist Church
1630 Vermont Avenue NW
Washington, DC 20009
Please remember the Hart family in your prayers during this time of their bereavement.
9. FUNERAL LOCATION CHANGE:
The funeral service for Rev. Thomas R. Jones on Thursday May 5, 2005 was moved to New Psalmist Baptist Church which is located at 4501 Old Frederick Avenue, Baltimore Maryland 21229 410-945-3000. The wake was from 10:30 AM-11:30 AM and the funeral service was to follow.
--
Rev. Dr. Joan L. Wharton
Mt. Zion AME Church
"I can do all things through
Christ who gives me the strength
10. ALL FUNERAL AND BEREAVEMENT NOTICES PROVIDED BY:
Sister 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
5/03/2005
THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER ONLINE (5/3/05)
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:
- I do not have a correct response to yesterday’s question.
- The name of the Connectional Officer whose name I didn’t know yesterday who was present at the Global Development Council Meeting was Sister Passion A. N. Musa, 20th Episcopal District President and Connectional 3rd Vice President of the Women's Missionary Society, AME Church.
- More of the account of my visit to Johannesburg, South Africa and Harare, Zimbabwe to attend the Global Development Council:
I left home in Nashville, Tennessee on Monday, April 29th and flew to Atlanta, Georgia where I met Dr. George Flowers, the Secretary of Global Witness and Missions for the African Methodist Episcopal Church. He gave me an overview of what to expect and shared some important travel tips, as I had not traveled to Africa; it was my first visit to the Continent. I experienced some anxiousness as we boarded the South African Airlines Airbus A340-600 for the 17 hour, 50 minute flight to Johannesburg, with a refueling stop at Cape Verde.
We arrived in Johannesburg at 9 a.m. on Tuesday morning. We were scheduled to depart for Harare, Zimbabwe at 7:20 p.m. I was fortunate that Dr. Flowers had arranged for the Reverend O. J. Matchabe, pastor of Jordan Temple AME Church, Kathlehong, Germiston and the Reverend M. Jerry Mokhatsi, senior pastor of Robinson Temple Vosloorus AME Church and acting Presiding Elder of the Germiston District to meet us and to give us a tour of some of the churches in the Johannesburg area. Johannesburg is beautiful city and covers a wide area. It didn’t remind me of any particular city, but looked more like one of the cities in the western area of the United States. We went to Soweto and that was a moving experience for me because I had read so much about Soweto. I thought that it would be about the size of a small American town, but was I wrong! Soweto is huge; I was told that Soweto has a population of about 2 million residents. I was told look as far as I could see and that, and more, was Soweto. We drove, and drove and drove and it seemed as if Soweto was not going to end. We visited two AME Churches in Soweto, one of which was the church that Bishop Messiah pastored before becoming elected and consecrated a bishop. The churches in Soweto seemed to me to be the centers of the community in Soweto. We also visited the Wilberforce Community College and the R.R. Wright Theological Seminary and spoke with the President, the Reverend Dr. Jeremiah Leeshope and several of the seminary students, who come from Angola, Mozambique, Zimbabwe, Swaziland, Lesotho, several other countries and of course, South Africa. It’s an international campus in the trust sense. Bishop James Davis, the presiding Bishop of the 19th Episcopal District and Dr. Leeshope are doing the work of preparing ministers of the gospel for the African Methodist Episcopal Church. They are using what they have, but it is apparent that the African Methodist Episcopal Church needs to provide more assistance and it might mean that the Church needs to redefine how it helps the overseas academic institutions. I don’t want to get ahead of myself, but both the Wilberforce Community College and the R. R. Wright Theological Seminary needs some serious assistance; and I am not just thinking about money. In addition to money I am thinking about visiting professors, carpenters, exchange students from Payne and Turner Theological Seminaries, and teachers going over at their own expense or sponsored by some of our mega churches. I am not speaking about change that needs General Conference legislation or political persuasion. I am not talking about budget increases. More than money, I am speaking about Holy Ghost-filled, Christ-committed persons who want to facilitate change and growth. I am talking about a “grass-roots Holy Spirit-filled revolution.” I am not talking about shouting and lifting our hands in praise; I am talking about “work” and putting our hands to tasks that need serious attention. You know what; I am jumping ahead of myself. Later, when I write about the Global Development Meeting in Harare, I will share an example of what I mean I tell you about Brother Chidzungu of Malawi who was a teacher at a Presbyterian School. He noticed that the teachers made fun of the AME students so he started an AME school where the AME children could learn without being mistreated. He was a “grass-roots movement of one.”
We left Soweto and went to a nice restaurant in a nice area before heading back to the airport for our flight to Harare. When Dr. Flowers and I got to the departure gate, we saw a number of AMEs and I felt right at home because, even in Africa, we greeted each other as only AMEs can! We boarded the plane for the 1 ½ hour flight to Harare. Bishop James Davis and Bishop Samuel Green were on the flight along with some of the ministerial and lay leaders of the overseas Episcopal Districts. The airport in Johannesburg is a hub like Atlanta and it seemed to me that to get anywhere in southern Africa, one must go through Johannesburg.
We arrived at the International Airport of Harare at about 9 p.m. local time. The airport in Harare is small, similar to some of our small town airports in the U.S. as opposed to the International Airport in Johannesburg, which is huge; think Atlanta or Chicago. We were met by Bishop Messiah, who was the ultimate host. Transportation was ready and we all were taken to the Harare Sheraton Hotel where we were met by Episcopal Supervisor, Mother Carol Messiah. Our rooms were ready after getting settled in our rooms and after a welcome reception, we retired for the night. I needed the bed because I had gotten up at 3:30 a.m. Monday morning to get ready for my 6:30 a.m. departure from Nashville, Tennessee. It was Tuesday evening at around 11 p.m. when I finally settled in my room for the night.
Even though the hour was late, the work of the bishops was not done. Bishops Wilfred Messiah, James Davis, Carolyn Tyler Guidry, Samuel Green, and Sarah Davis had a late night meeting to finalize the agenda for the GDC Meeting that was going to take place on Wednesday morning.
The ministerial and lay leadership from the overseas Districts 16 – 20 had arrived and were ready to do the work of the Church. (To be continued.)
Editor’s note: I am going to stop right here and will continue the full report of the GDC Meeting in the next issue of The Christian Recorder Online.
There is much work that needs to be done in Districts 16-20 and the next article provides a potential orientation point and, hopefully, might be a motivating “vehicle” to encourage persons to volunteer or be sponsored to serve in the overseas districts.
2. INVITATION TO JOIN THE GLOBAL MINISTRY OF THE CONNECTIONAL LAY ORGANIZATION IN JOHANNESBURG AND CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA, MARCH 1-11, 2006:
You are invited you to join the Global Ministry of The Connectional Lay Organization in Johannesburg and Cape Town, South Africa, March 1-11, 2006.
The excursion will focus on Lay Organization outreach and Lay Ministry training. For information about this exciting 10-day ministry excursion visit the Connectional Lay Organization website: http://www.amec-connectionallay.org/ .
After you have reviewed the itinerary, please complete the registration form to reserve your space, and return it to the address provided. Should you have any questions, please call Xodus International Group, Inc. at 703-971-9660 and reference the AME Connectional Lay South African Excursion.
Thank you and we look forward to seeing you in South Africa.
Sincerely,
Jesse L. Burns,
President, Connectional Lay Organization
3. THOUSANDS WITNESS HEALING BY "THE POWER OF ONE":
Farrakhan: "I'm in Pain"
By Stephanie and Eric Stradford
The Christian Recorder, May 2, 2005, Ebenezer African Methodist Episcopal Church, Ft. Washington, MD - The Honorable Minister Louis Farrakhan climbed out of a wheelchair last night to declare his independence through, "The Power of One." "I'm in pain," repeated the 72 year old visionary of the 1995 Million Man March. The physical pain endured by the charismatic leader of the Nation of Islam might inspire one in a million to seek emergency healing.
Minister Farrakhan stood on a bad back for nearly an hour preaching the Gospel from the empowering pulpit at Ebenezer African Methodist Episcopal Church. "I feel at peace here," said the minister. He had come to a place where millions of modern day Christians, Jews, Muslims, and Gentiles have found relief.
The Ebenezer "Family," widely known for setting a mood, stood with Co-Pastors Grainger and Jo Ann Browning to usher in the miracle of THE MILLIONS MORE MOVEMENT. Minister Keith Williams' humble spirit led a choir of 300 in proclaiming, "The Spirit of The Lord is here!" The gathering rose to their feet to receive a message from The Rt. Reverend Vashti Murphy McKenzie, Presiding Bishop of the AME Church's 13th Episcopal District. The first woman to be elected bishop in the African Methodist Episcopal Church left little room for doubt that this was the right place at the right time for healing Africa's legendary Stolen People.
The Reverend Willie F. Wilson serves as National Executive Director for THE MILLIONS MORE MOVEMENT. Flanked by an army of co-conveners, the pastor of Union Temple Baptist Church is among the first to experience "The Power of One." It reached to the highest mountain, touched The Rev. Al Sharpton (2004 Democratic Presidential Candidate); and has inspired leadership from all walks of life. Dr. Dorothy I. Height (President Emeritus National Council of Negro Women); Bishop Larry D. Trotter (Senior Pastor, Sweet Holy Spirit Church Presiding Prelate of the United Pentecostal Church of Christ); and Sister Phile Chionesu, Founder /President of the Million Woman March); are but a few of the well-known names.
But the "Power of One" is not an asset held only for the well-known or the religiously endowed. It has a demonstrated capacity for reaching high mountains, flowing through valleys, and never losing. Did we fail to mention Tavis Smiley (National News TV/Radio Talk Show Host/Philanthropist); Actor Kene Holliday (TV Matlock's Tyler Hudson); John and Joyce Brown, (Mega Corporation), and Mr. Danny Bakewell (Activist/Developer/ Founder of Brotherhood Crusade)?
"What do you all have in common?" asked Minister Farrakhan. The list of who's who among America's most gifted seemed endless. Nelson Mandela, Cecily Tyson, Dick Gregory, Coretta Scott King, Ambassador Andrew Young, The Honorable Anthony William (D.C. Mayor), The Honorable John Conyers, Dr. C. DeLores Tucker (National Congress of Black Women), Mother Tynetta Muhammad, Danny Glover, Rev. Joseph Lowery, Stevie Wonder, Senator Barack Obama, Dean Evans Crawford (Howard U. School of Divinity, ret.), Will and Jada Smith, Mr. Art Blackwell (Financial Manager of Highland Park, Michigan/Former Wayne County Commissioner); Rev. Clay Evans, Dr. Arthur A. Fletcher, (Father of the Affirmative Action Enforcement Movement); Marc Morial (Urban League), The Honorable Alexis Herman (Former, U.S. Secretary of Labor), Rev. Fred Shuttlesworth (SCLC), The Honorable Maxine Waters, Dr. Ron Daniels Executive Director, Center for Constitutional Rights); Prince Assiel Ben Israel (Ambassador Black Hebrew Israelites); The Honorable L. Douglas Wilder (Former Governor VA), Yolanda Adams, Mr. Jim Brown President/CEO I Can, Inc. and NFL Hall of Frame); Brother Ben Brown (Nationalist/ Author/Community Organizer);US Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton (Democrat, DC); Dr. Ron Walters (Distinguished Leadership Scholar & Director, African American Leadership Institute); Charles Ogletree (Harvard U), Susan Taylor (Essence), Rev. Jesse Jackson (Rainbow PUSH Coalition); Dr. Benjamin Chavis (Former National Executive Director of the Million Man March and Million Family March); Councilmember Marion Barry (Former DC Mayor) and Cora Masters Barry; Mr. Jack Johnson (Prince Georges County, Maryland County Executive); Rev. Floyd Flake and Rev. Walter Fauntroy (Former US Congressmen); Dr. Conrad Worrill (National Black United Front); Dr. Julian Bond (Chairman, NAACP); Rev. Nelson B. Rivers III (Chief Operating Officer, NAACP); Dr. Maulana Karenga (Professor of the Department of Black Studies, California State University, Long Beach); Dr. Ramona Edelin (National Urban Coalition); Bill Lucy (Former Pres. AFLCIO), Dr. Ben Carson, Dr. Jocelyn Elder (Former U.S. Surgeon General), Dr. Julianne Malveaux (Columnist/Author/Commentator); Bishop Adam Jefferson Richardson (Presiding Prelate, 2nd Episcopal District, AME Church); Bishop Warren Brown (Mid-Atlantic II Episcopal District of the AME Zion Church); Dr. Major L. Jemison (President of National Progressive Baptist Convention); Dr. Claud Anderson, Dr. Earl Graves, Magic Johnson, Dr. Cornell West, Stephanie and Eric Stradford, Youth Achievers USA; Hannibal Afrique (NCOBRA/Nationalist) Donna Brazile (former Presidential Campaign Manager for Al Gore), and many more.
The common factor for these and "MILLIONS MORE" is "The Power of One."
Still don't get it? You possibly didn't get Malcom X, Martin Luther King, Jr., Medgar Evers, WEB DuBois, Harriet Tubman, Richard Allen or Absolom Jones either. A revolution, evinced by love, began more than 2000 years ago. It came with healing, wholeness, and endless possibilities for peace and prosperity. The Power of One will come to your house. The question is how will you receive it?
4. THE AFRICAN METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH STRATEGIC PLANNING PROCESS BEGINS SECOND PHASE
By Rev. Dr. Lugenia Johnson
The African Methodist Episcopal Church Strategic Planning Core Committee (SPCC) met to begin the second phase of planning and evaluating ministry in the 21st Century, on Monday and Tuesday, March 7 and 8, 2005, at the Marriott Airport Hotel in Nashville, Tennessee, under the direction of the Council of Bishops; and, lead by Co-Conveners Bishop Vashti Murphy McKenzie, Presiding Prelate of the Thirteenth Episcopal District; Bishop McKinley Young, Presiding Prelate of the Eleventh Episcopal District; and, Bishop Garnett Henning, Presiding Prelate of the Eighth Episcopal District. This second phase of the SPCC will examine issues arising out of the more than 25,000 survey responses from members of the Connectional AME Church such as declining membership, young adult participation, worship trends, empowerment and inclusion of men in the church, job descriptions and performance evaluations. The SPCC will also focus on developing recommendations for the completion of a feasibility study on making the Episcopal Districts more equitable in size and membership.
As a result of two major surveys and of twenty-five thousand plus responses from AME’s across the Connectional Church, several pieces of legislation were presented and five pieces of legislation passed the legislative process at the 47th Quadrennial Session of the General Conference that was held in Indianapolis. Among the pieces of legislation that passed the legislative process was Bill CC – 2 which requires a feasibility study to examine making the Episcopal Districts of the Church more equitable. This feasibility study was remanded to the SPCC for completion by December 2005, and, presentation to the General Board in 2006. Other issues voiced by the stakeholders of the AMEC from across the Connectional Church will be reviewed, prioritized, and discussed upon the completion of the recommendations for the feasibility study.
The Strategic Planning Core Committee was envisioned and birthed through the Counsel of Bishops and the General Board of the AMEC following the 46th Quadrennial Session of the General Conference for the purpose of allowing all of the stakeholders of the AME Church to have a voice in planning for the future of the Church. The SPCC has coordinated ideas, plans, and information with the Global Development Council in an effort to plan for the future of the Connectional AMEC. This bold new vision, the AMEC SPCC, began the work of its charge in Baltimore MD, September 28 – 30, 2002 with approximately ninety – five representatives to include individuals from all departments of the church.
On Monday and Tuesday, March 7 – 8, 2005, a total of seventy – seven representatives from Episcopal Districts 1 – 14, and 16 assembled together at the Marriott Airport Hotel in Nashville, Tennessee to begin the implementation of this second phase of the process. Feelings of excitement and anticipation permeated the atmosphere as five bishops, one Episcopal Supervisor, five General Officers, one General Officer’s spouse, four Connectional Officers, presiding elders, pastors, missionaries, members of the lay, one chaplain, and; members of the Youth, and Young Adult Departments diligently worked with the very critical tasks at hand. This Core Strategic Planning Committee was composed of twenty-eight of the original Episcopal District representatives, along with twenty–nine newly appointed Episcopal District representatives, and five observers.
The SPCC began the process of developing recommendations for the completion of the feasibility study for making the Episcopal Districts more equitable with the following steps:
- Determining a definition of the problem: The rationale as explained in the Legislative Bill CC2 defined the nature of the problem and the need for making the Episcopal Districts more equitable. The SPCC began the task of clearly defining the different entities of the Church as outlined in the legislation, i.e. Episcopal district, annual conference, presiding elder district, local church; and, mission church.
- Analyzing the Problem: The members of the SPCC were assigned the task of continuing the research and information gathering in his/her respective Episcopal districts so that the committee may be able to proceed with the most accurate information possible on which to develop recommendations for the general Church, and, that all stakeholders may have the opportunity for input.
Developing Recommendations: Once the information and data have been gathered and analyzed, the SPCC will develop recommendations for completing the feasibility study on the process of making the Episcopal districts more equitable.
Presenting Recommendations: According to the parameters set forth in the legislation, the SPCC has a target date of December 2005 to make initial recommendations to the General Board and to the Bishops’ Council.
Subsequent SPCC meetings have been scheduled for May 23–24, July 11–12, September 19–20, and November 28–29, in Nashville, Tennessee. Stakeholders are welcome to attend and participate in the process.
5. BRYANT TEMPLE A.M.E. CHURCH, LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA WILL HOST 2nd ANNUAL WOMEN'S HEALTH AWARENESS DAY:
Bryant Temple A.M.E. Church [Rev. Dr. Clyde W. Oden, Jr.] in conjunction with Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, LASB Alumnae Chapter and The Palms Residential Care Facility, will host their 2nd Annual Women's Health Awareness Day, Saturday, May 14, 2005, 10 a.m. – 2 p m., 2525 W. Vernon Avenue [corner of 4th Ave. & Vernon, church lot - Los Angeles], Admission is Free. Our goal is to address significant health issues affecting women in the community. Free screenings may save a life, especially that of an uninsured women. Our focus is HIV/AIDS; however, this year we introduce Mental Health Awareness. Dr. Rosie Milligan leads our workshop on HIV/AIDS and Dr. Verda Bradley will discuss depression, stress, and anxiety. Our participants include: American Red Cross, Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation, Minority AIDS Project, Crenshaw Expo Medical Center, 24 Hr. Fitness, YWCA, Curves, Jamba Juice, Awesome Chiropractic. Our Free Screenings: HIV/AIDS, Hypertension, Diabetes, STDs, Bone Marrow, Obesity/Nutrition and more. We'll have massages to reduce stress and Mary Kay. Fun for the kids in our Kids Korner!! Live performance by Chosen Gospel Ministry.
For more information call 323-293-6201 ext 201 or visit, http://www.blogger.com/www.bryanttemple.org, or http://www.blogger.com/www.abc7.com.
6. FUNERAL ARRANGEMENTS:
The finalized funeral arrangements for Mrs. Ruby Kirkland Jones who passed on Friday, April 29, 2005, the oldest sister (matriarch) of Bishop Theodore Larry Kirkland, Presiding Bishop of the Ninth Episcopal District of the African Methodist Episcopal Church are as follows:
Family Visitation:
Wednesday, May 4, 2005
6:00 P.M. – 9:00 P.M.
Smith & Gaston Mortuary
102 6th Avenue, SW
Birmingham, AL 35211
205-322-3581 (Fax)
Funeral
Thursday, May 5, 2005
St. Paul AME Church (Wylam)
1223 Portland Street
Birmingham, AL 35224
205-781-1756 (Phone)
Messages of condolence may be sent to:
Bishop and Mrs. Theodore Larry Kirkland & Family
2101 Daniel Payne Drive
Building 2
Birmingham, AL 35212
205-791-1908 (Phone)
205-791-1905 – FAX
Or to:
Smith & Gaston Mortuary
102 6th Avenue, SW
Birmingham, AL 35211
205-322-3581 (Fax)
Or to:
Bishop and Mrs. Theodore Larry Kirkland and Family
2120 Park Brook Lane
Birmingham, AL 35215
205-854-2878 (Fax)
God Bless!Ora L. Easley
Email: Amespouses1@aol.com
(Nashville, TN Contact) Phone: (615) 837-9736Fax: (615) 833-3781
(Memphis, TN Contact) (901) 578-4554 (Phone & Fax)
The Reverend Dr. Johnny Barbour, Jr., Publisher
The Reverend Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III, Editor
1. EDITOR’S CORNER:
- I do not have a correct response to yesterday’s question.
- The name of the Connectional Officer whose name I didn’t know yesterday who was present at the Global Development Council Meeting was Sister Passion A. N. Musa, 20th Episcopal District President and Connectional 3rd Vice President of the Women's Missionary Society, AME Church.
- More of the account of my visit to Johannesburg, South Africa and Harare, Zimbabwe to attend the Global Development Council:
I left home in Nashville, Tennessee on Monday, April 29th and flew to Atlanta, Georgia where I met Dr. George Flowers, the Secretary of Global Witness and Missions for the African Methodist Episcopal Church. He gave me an overview of what to expect and shared some important travel tips, as I had not traveled to Africa; it was my first visit to the Continent. I experienced some anxiousness as we boarded the South African Airlines Airbus A340-600 for the 17 hour, 50 minute flight to Johannesburg, with a refueling stop at Cape Verde.
We arrived in Johannesburg at 9 a.m. on Tuesday morning. We were scheduled to depart for Harare, Zimbabwe at 7:20 p.m. I was fortunate that Dr. Flowers had arranged for the Reverend O. J. Matchabe, pastor of Jordan Temple AME Church, Kathlehong, Germiston and the Reverend M. Jerry Mokhatsi, senior pastor of Robinson Temple Vosloorus AME Church and acting Presiding Elder of the Germiston District to meet us and to give us a tour of some of the churches in the Johannesburg area. Johannesburg is beautiful city and covers a wide area. It didn’t remind me of any particular city, but looked more like one of the cities in the western area of the United States. We went to Soweto and that was a moving experience for me because I had read so much about Soweto. I thought that it would be about the size of a small American town, but was I wrong! Soweto is huge; I was told that Soweto has a population of about 2 million residents. I was told look as far as I could see and that, and more, was Soweto. We drove, and drove and drove and it seemed as if Soweto was not going to end. We visited two AME Churches in Soweto, one of which was the church that Bishop Messiah pastored before becoming elected and consecrated a bishop. The churches in Soweto seemed to me to be the centers of the community in Soweto. We also visited the Wilberforce Community College and the R.R. Wright Theological Seminary and spoke with the President, the Reverend Dr. Jeremiah Leeshope and several of the seminary students, who come from Angola, Mozambique, Zimbabwe, Swaziland, Lesotho, several other countries and of course, South Africa. It’s an international campus in the trust sense. Bishop James Davis, the presiding Bishop of the 19th Episcopal District and Dr. Leeshope are doing the work of preparing ministers of the gospel for the African Methodist Episcopal Church. They are using what they have, but it is apparent that the African Methodist Episcopal Church needs to provide more assistance and it might mean that the Church needs to redefine how it helps the overseas academic institutions. I don’t want to get ahead of myself, but both the Wilberforce Community College and the R. R. Wright Theological Seminary needs some serious assistance; and I am not just thinking about money. In addition to money I am thinking about visiting professors, carpenters, exchange students from Payne and Turner Theological Seminaries, and teachers going over at their own expense or sponsored by some of our mega churches. I am not speaking about change that needs General Conference legislation or political persuasion. I am not talking about budget increases. More than money, I am speaking about Holy Ghost-filled, Christ-committed persons who want to facilitate change and growth. I am talking about a “grass-roots Holy Spirit-filled revolution.” I am not talking about shouting and lifting our hands in praise; I am talking about “work” and putting our hands to tasks that need serious attention. You know what; I am jumping ahead of myself. Later, when I write about the Global Development Meeting in Harare, I will share an example of what I mean I tell you about Brother Chidzungu of Malawi who was a teacher at a Presbyterian School. He noticed that the teachers made fun of the AME students so he started an AME school where the AME children could learn without being mistreated. He was a “grass-roots movement of one.”
We left Soweto and went to a nice restaurant in a nice area before heading back to the airport for our flight to Harare. When Dr. Flowers and I got to the departure gate, we saw a number of AMEs and I felt right at home because, even in Africa, we greeted each other as only AMEs can! We boarded the plane for the 1 ½ hour flight to Harare. Bishop James Davis and Bishop Samuel Green were on the flight along with some of the ministerial and lay leaders of the overseas Episcopal Districts. The airport in Johannesburg is a hub like Atlanta and it seemed to me that to get anywhere in southern Africa, one must go through Johannesburg.
We arrived at the International Airport of Harare at about 9 p.m. local time. The airport in Harare is small, similar to some of our small town airports in the U.S. as opposed to the International Airport in Johannesburg, which is huge; think Atlanta or Chicago. We were met by Bishop Messiah, who was the ultimate host. Transportation was ready and we all were taken to the Harare Sheraton Hotel where we were met by Episcopal Supervisor, Mother Carol Messiah. Our rooms were ready after getting settled in our rooms and after a welcome reception, we retired for the night. I needed the bed because I had gotten up at 3:30 a.m. Monday morning to get ready for my 6:30 a.m. departure from Nashville, Tennessee. It was Tuesday evening at around 11 p.m. when I finally settled in my room for the night.
Even though the hour was late, the work of the bishops was not done. Bishops Wilfred Messiah, James Davis, Carolyn Tyler Guidry, Samuel Green, and Sarah Davis had a late night meeting to finalize the agenda for the GDC Meeting that was going to take place on Wednesday morning.
The ministerial and lay leadership from the overseas Districts 16 – 20 had arrived and were ready to do the work of the Church. (To be continued.)
Editor’s note: I am going to stop right here and will continue the full report of the GDC Meeting in the next issue of The Christian Recorder Online.
There is much work that needs to be done in Districts 16-20 and the next article provides a potential orientation point and, hopefully, might be a motivating “vehicle” to encourage persons to volunteer or be sponsored to serve in the overseas districts.
2. INVITATION TO JOIN THE GLOBAL MINISTRY OF THE CONNECTIONAL LAY ORGANIZATION IN JOHANNESBURG AND CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA, MARCH 1-11, 2006:
You are invited you to join the Global Ministry of The Connectional Lay Organization in Johannesburg and Cape Town, South Africa, March 1-11, 2006.
The excursion will focus on Lay Organization outreach and Lay Ministry training. For information about this exciting 10-day ministry excursion visit the Connectional Lay Organization website: http://www.amec-connectionallay.org/ .
After you have reviewed the itinerary, please complete the registration form to reserve your space, and return it to the address provided. Should you have any questions, please call Xodus International Group, Inc. at 703-971-9660 and reference the AME Connectional Lay South African Excursion.
Thank you and we look forward to seeing you in South Africa.
Sincerely,
Jesse L. Burns,
President, Connectional Lay Organization
3. THOUSANDS WITNESS HEALING BY "THE POWER OF ONE":
Farrakhan: "I'm in Pain"
By Stephanie and Eric Stradford
The Christian Recorder, May 2, 2005, Ebenezer African Methodist Episcopal Church, Ft. Washington, MD - The Honorable Minister Louis Farrakhan climbed out of a wheelchair last night to declare his independence through, "The Power of One." "I'm in pain," repeated the 72 year old visionary of the 1995 Million Man March. The physical pain endured by the charismatic leader of the Nation of Islam might inspire one in a million to seek emergency healing.
Minister Farrakhan stood on a bad back for nearly an hour preaching the Gospel from the empowering pulpit at Ebenezer African Methodist Episcopal Church. "I feel at peace here," said the minister. He had come to a place where millions of modern day Christians, Jews, Muslims, and Gentiles have found relief.
The Ebenezer "Family," widely known for setting a mood, stood with Co-Pastors Grainger and Jo Ann Browning to usher in the miracle of THE MILLIONS MORE MOVEMENT. Minister Keith Williams' humble spirit led a choir of 300 in proclaiming, "The Spirit of The Lord is here!" The gathering rose to their feet to receive a message from The Rt. Reverend Vashti Murphy McKenzie, Presiding Bishop of the AME Church's 13th Episcopal District. The first woman to be elected bishop in the African Methodist Episcopal Church left little room for doubt that this was the right place at the right time for healing Africa's legendary Stolen People.
The Reverend Willie F. Wilson serves as National Executive Director for THE MILLIONS MORE MOVEMENT. Flanked by an army of co-conveners, the pastor of Union Temple Baptist Church is among the first to experience "The Power of One." It reached to the highest mountain, touched The Rev. Al Sharpton (2004 Democratic Presidential Candidate); and has inspired leadership from all walks of life. Dr. Dorothy I. Height (President Emeritus National Council of Negro Women); Bishop Larry D. Trotter (Senior Pastor, Sweet Holy Spirit Church Presiding Prelate of the United Pentecostal Church of Christ); and Sister Phile Chionesu, Founder /President of the Million Woman March); are but a few of the well-known names.
But the "Power of One" is not an asset held only for the well-known or the religiously endowed. It has a demonstrated capacity for reaching high mountains, flowing through valleys, and never losing. Did we fail to mention Tavis Smiley (National News TV/Radio Talk Show Host/Philanthropist); Actor Kene Holliday (TV Matlock's Tyler Hudson); John and Joyce Brown, (Mega Corporation), and Mr. Danny Bakewell (Activist/Developer/ Founder of Brotherhood Crusade)?
"What do you all have in common?" asked Minister Farrakhan. The list of who's who among America's most gifted seemed endless. Nelson Mandela, Cecily Tyson, Dick Gregory, Coretta Scott King, Ambassador Andrew Young, The Honorable Anthony William (D.C. Mayor), The Honorable John Conyers, Dr. C. DeLores Tucker (National Congress of Black Women), Mother Tynetta Muhammad, Danny Glover, Rev. Joseph Lowery, Stevie Wonder, Senator Barack Obama, Dean Evans Crawford (Howard U. School of Divinity, ret.), Will and Jada Smith, Mr. Art Blackwell (Financial Manager of Highland Park, Michigan/Former Wayne County Commissioner); Rev. Clay Evans, Dr. Arthur A. Fletcher, (Father of the Affirmative Action Enforcement Movement); Marc Morial (Urban League), The Honorable Alexis Herman (Former, U.S. Secretary of Labor), Rev. Fred Shuttlesworth (SCLC), The Honorable Maxine Waters, Dr. Ron Daniels Executive Director, Center for Constitutional Rights); Prince Assiel Ben Israel (Ambassador Black Hebrew Israelites); The Honorable L. Douglas Wilder (Former Governor VA), Yolanda Adams, Mr. Jim Brown President/CEO I Can, Inc. and NFL Hall of Frame); Brother Ben Brown (Nationalist/ Author/Community Organizer);US Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton (Democrat, DC); Dr. Ron Walters (Distinguished Leadership Scholar & Director, African American Leadership Institute); Charles Ogletree (Harvard U), Susan Taylor (Essence), Rev. Jesse Jackson (Rainbow PUSH Coalition); Dr. Benjamin Chavis (Former National Executive Director of the Million Man March and Million Family March); Councilmember Marion Barry (Former DC Mayor) and Cora Masters Barry; Mr. Jack Johnson (Prince Georges County, Maryland County Executive); Rev. Floyd Flake and Rev. Walter Fauntroy (Former US Congressmen); Dr. Conrad Worrill (National Black United Front); Dr. Julian Bond (Chairman, NAACP); Rev. Nelson B. Rivers III (Chief Operating Officer, NAACP); Dr. Maulana Karenga (Professor of the Department of Black Studies, California State University, Long Beach); Dr. Ramona Edelin (National Urban Coalition); Bill Lucy (Former Pres. AFLCIO), Dr. Ben Carson, Dr. Jocelyn Elder (Former U.S. Surgeon General), Dr. Julianne Malveaux (Columnist/Author/Commentator); Bishop Adam Jefferson Richardson (Presiding Prelate, 2nd Episcopal District, AME Church); Bishop Warren Brown (Mid-Atlantic II Episcopal District of the AME Zion Church); Dr. Major L. Jemison (President of National Progressive Baptist Convention); Dr. Claud Anderson, Dr. Earl Graves, Magic Johnson, Dr. Cornell West, Stephanie and Eric Stradford, Youth Achievers USA; Hannibal Afrique (NCOBRA/Nationalist) Donna Brazile (former Presidential Campaign Manager for Al Gore), and many more.
The common factor for these and "MILLIONS MORE" is "The Power of One."
Still don't get it? You possibly didn't get Malcom X, Martin Luther King, Jr., Medgar Evers, WEB DuBois, Harriet Tubman, Richard Allen or Absolom Jones either. A revolution, evinced by love, began more than 2000 years ago. It came with healing, wholeness, and endless possibilities for peace and prosperity. The Power of One will come to your house. The question is how will you receive it?
4. THE AFRICAN METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH STRATEGIC PLANNING PROCESS BEGINS SECOND PHASE
By Rev. Dr. Lugenia Johnson
The African Methodist Episcopal Church Strategic Planning Core Committee (SPCC) met to begin the second phase of planning and evaluating ministry in the 21st Century, on Monday and Tuesday, March 7 and 8, 2005, at the Marriott Airport Hotel in Nashville, Tennessee, under the direction of the Council of Bishops; and, lead by Co-Conveners Bishop Vashti Murphy McKenzie, Presiding Prelate of the Thirteenth Episcopal District; Bishop McKinley Young, Presiding Prelate of the Eleventh Episcopal District; and, Bishop Garnett Henning, Presiding Prelate of the Eighth Episcopal District. This second phase of the SPCC will examine issues arising out of the more than 25,000 survey responses from members of the Connectional AME Church such as declining membership, young adult participation, worship trends, empowerment and inclusion of men in the church, job descriptions and performance evaluations. The SPCC will also focus on developing recommendations for the completion of a feasibility study on making the Episcopal Districts more equitable in size and membership.
As a result of two major surveys and of twenty-five thousand plus responses from AME’s across the Connectional Church, several pieces of legislation were presented and five pieces of legislation passed the legislative process at the 47th Quadrennial Session of the General Conference that was held in Indianapolis. Among the pieces of legislation that passed the legislative process was Bill CC – 2 which requires a feasibility study to examine making the Episcopal Districts of the Church more equitable. This feasibility study was remanded to the SPCC for completion by December 2005, and, presentation to the General Board in 2006. Other issues voiced by the stakeholders of the AMEC from across the Connectional Church will be reviewed, prioritized, and discussed upon the completion of the recommendations for the feasibility study.
The Strategic Planning Core Committee was envisioned and birthed through the Counsel of Bishops and the General Board of the AMEC following the 46th Quadrennial Session of the General Conference for the purpose of allowing all of the stakeholders of the AME Church to have a voice in planning for the future of the Church. The SPCC has coordinated ideas, plans, and information with the Global Development Council in an effort to plan for the future of the Connectional AMEC. This bold new vision, the AMEC SPCC, began the work of its charge in Baltimore MD, September 28 – 30, 2002 with approximately ninety – five representatives to include individuals from all departments of the church.
On Monday and Tuesday, March 7 – 8, 2005, a total of seventy – seven representatives from Episcopal Districts 1 – 14, and 16 assembled together at the Marriott Airport Hotel in Nashville, Tennessee to begin the implementation of this second phase of the process. Feelings of excitement and anticipation permeated the atmosphere as five bishops, one Episcopal Supervisor, five General Officers, one General Officer’s spouse, four Connectional Officers, presiding elders, pastors, missionaries, members of the lay, one chaplain, and; members of the Youth, and Young Adult Departments diligently worked with the very critical tasks at hand. This Core Strategic Planning Committee was composed of twenty-eight of the original Episcopal District representatives, along with twenty–nine newly appointed Episcopal District representatives, and five observers.
The SPCC began the process of developing recommendations for the completion of the feasibility study for making the Episcopal Districts more equitable with the following steps:
- Determining a definition of the problem: The rationale as explained in the Legislative Bill CC2 defined the nature of the problem and the need for making the Episcopal Districts more equitable. The SPCC began the task of clearly defining the different entities of the Church as outlined in the legislation, i.e. Episcopal district, annual conference, presiding elder district, local church; and, mission church.
- Analyzing the Problem: The members of the SPCC were assigned the task of continuing the research and information gathering in his/her respective Episcopal districts so that the committee may be able to proceed with the most accurate information possible on which to develop recommendations for the general Church, and, that all stakeholders may have the opportunity for input.
Developing Recommendations: Once the information and data have been gathered and analyzed, the SPCC will develop recommendations for completing the feasibility study on the process of making the Episcopal districts more equitable.
Presenting Recommendations: According to the parameters set forth in the legislation, the SPCC has a target date of December 2005 to make initial recommendations to the General Board and to the Bishops’ Council.
Subsequent SPCC meetings have been scheduled for May 23–24, July 11–12, September 19–20, and November 28–29, in Nashville, Tennessee. Stakeholders are welcome to attend and participate in the process.
5. BRYANT TEMPLE A.M.E. CHURCH, LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA WILL HOST 2nd ANNUAL WOMEN'S HEALTH AWARENESS DAY:
Bryant Temple A.M.E. Church [Rev. Dr. Clyde W. Oden, Jr.] in conjunction with Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, LASB Alumnae Chapter and The Palms Residential Care Facility, will host their 2nd Annual Women's Health Awareness Day, Saturday, May 14, 2005, 10 a.m. – 2 p m., 2525 W. Vernon Avenue [corner of 4th Ave. & Vernon, church lot - Los Angeles], Admission is Free. Our goal is to address significant health issues affecting women in the community. Free screenings may save a life, especially that of an uninsured women. Our focus is HIV/AIDS; however, this year we introduce Mental Health Awareness. Dr. Rosie Milligan leads our workshop on HIV/AIDS and Dr. Verda Bradley will discuss depression, stress, and anxiety. Our participants include: American Red Cross, Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation, Minority AIDS Project, Crenshaw Expo Medical Center, 24 Hr. Fitness, YWCA, Curves, Jamba Juice, Awesome Chiropractic. Our Free Screenings: HIV/AIDS, Hypertension, Diabetes, STDs, Bone Marrow, Obesity/Nutrition and more. We'll have massages to reduce stress and Mary Kay. Fun for the kids in our Kids Korner!! Live performance by Chosen Gospel Ministry.
For more information call 323-293-6201 ext 201 or visit, http://www.blogger.com/www.bryanttemple.org, or http://www.blogger.com/www.abc7.com.
6. FUNERAL ARRANGEMENTS:
The finalized funeral arrangements for Mrs. Ruby Kirkland Jones who passed on Friday, April 29, 2005, the oldest sister (matriarch) of Bishop Theodore Larry Kirkland, Presiding Bishop of the Ninth Episcopal District of the African Methodist Episcopal Church are as follows:
Family Visitation:
Wednesday, May 4, 2005
6:00 P.M. – 9:00 P.M.
Smith & Gaston Mortuary
102 6th Avenue, SW
Birmingham, AL 35211
205-322-3581 (Fax)
Funeral
Thursday, May 5, 2005
St. Paul AME Church (Wylam)
1223 Portland Street
Birmingham, AL 35224
205-781-1756 (Phone)
Messages of condolence may be sent to:
Bishop and Mrs. Theodore Larry Kirkland & Family
2101 Daniel Payne Drive
Building 2
Birmingham, AL 35212
205-791-1908 (Phone)
205-791-1905 – FAX
Or to:
Smith & Gaston Mortuary
102 6th Avenue, SW
Birmingham, AL 35211
205-322-3581 (Fax)
Or to:
Bishop and Mrs. Theodore Larry Kirkland and Family
2120 Park Brook Lane
Birmingham, AL 35215
205-854-2878 (Fax)
God Bless!Ora L. Easley
Email: Amespouses1@aol.com
(Nashville, TN Contact) Phone: (615) 837-9736Fax: (615) 833-3781
(Memphis, TN Contact) (901) 578-4554 (Phone & Fax)
5/02/2005
THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER ONLINE (5/2/05)
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:
- My visit to Harare, Zimbabwe and Johannesburg South Africa
I returned from my visit to Harare, Zimbabwe where I attended the Global Development Council (GDC) and Johannesburg, South Africa yesterday. I have to say that the GDC meeting and interacting with the bishops, ministers, and laity was an awesome experience. To see some of our churches and to speak with pastors is something that I need to share with our readership as well as the engaging conversation I had over lunch with several of our overseas bishops. I am going to get this issue out now, but I am working on my trip report which I hope to have ready for tomorrow’s issue. The Reverend Dr. George Flowers, our most capable Secretary of Global Witness and Missions was my travel partner and travel mentor. I refer to him as “most capable” because it was quickly apparent to me that he knows his overseas territory and has the respect of the Episcopal, ministerial, and lay leadership from across the overseas districts. Bishops Wilfred Messiah, James Davis, Carolyn Tyler Guidry, Samuel Green, and Sarah Davis were the Episcopal representatives in attendance, along with General Officers George Flowers and yours truly. Connectional Officers present were, a wonderful lady who Dr. Flowers introduced to me as, “Mother Precious” (I will have her full name by tomorrow’s issue) and Brother Weldon Shuman, 2nd Vice-President of the Connectional Lay Organization. Episcopal Supervisors present were Carol Messiah, Donovan Guidry, and Claytie Davis. Bishop Messiah was elected as the chair of the GDC. And, the sermon by the Right Reverend Sarah Davis was magnificent.
I am going to stop right here and do a full report of the GDC and my visit to South Africa and Zimbabwe in the next issue of The Christian Recorder.
- Here is a question: When (what year) was the first AME Hymnal published and who were the compilers? I need the precise answer to my question within 24 hours of the posting of this edition of The Christian Recorder Online.
Prize: Subscription to any AME periodical
2. INFORMATION REGARDING THE HAMPTON UNIVERSITY MINISTERS’ CONFERENCE:
Go to http://www.hamptonu.edu/ and then click on “Calendar of Events” after which you will click on “Ministers Conference” or email:
ministersconference@hamptonu.edu
The HU Ministers Conference will be held on June 5-10, 2005. The AME Luncheon will be held at the Radisson Hotel, within walking distance of the campus, on Thursday, June 9, 2005 at 1:30 p.m.
3. SISTER LAURA C. EVERETT PROVIDES SCHOLARSHIP INFORMATION:
The Massachusetts Council of Churches is offering seven full scholarships to qualified seminarians, theology students and recently ordained clergy to attend the Northeast Ecumenical Institute, of which we are a co-sponsor with three Roman Catholic religious orders. The scholarships will be given to stimulate and encourage new ecumenical leadership. If you know of any seminarians or recently ordained clergy who might be interested, I'd appreciate if you sent this their way and post this in your papers. We are really making a concerted effort to help folks attend who might not be able to otherwise and also reach out to potential ecumenists. I've included below the Website for the Massachusetts Council of Churches that gives a brief introduction to the institute, application, registration form, and institute agenda. They can also all be obtained on our webpage at http://www.masscouncilofchurches.org/.
Thank you kindly and please feel free to contact me with any questions,
In God's Peace,
Laura C Everett
E-mail: council@masscouncilofchurches.org for additional information
The Board of Directors of the Massachusetts Council of Churches has authorized the granting of scholarships using funds from an offering given at the MCC’s Annual Meeting and the Hope for the Future Fund. A sub-committee of the MCC Board will select the recipients.
4. THE CHAPLAINS CORNER:
- Chaplain David R. Brown will make his Annual Chaplain Report at the Virginia Annual Conference.
Chaplain David R. Brown is a native Cranford, New Jersey. He is an ordained Itinerant Elder within the African Methodist Episcopal Church and has served as a pastor within the church for three years prior to Active Duty. He has been a Navy Chaplain for over nine years and is presently serving as a Staff Chaplain at the Naval Station Norfolk Chapel in Norfolk, Virginia.
Chaplain Brown has earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from Virginia State University in Petersburg, Virginia and a Master of Divinity degree from the Proctor School of Theology of Virginia Union University in Richmond, Virginia. He is currently enrolled as a student in the Marine Corps Command and Staff College Distant Education Program (CSCDEP), which is a seminar course held at the Joint Forces Staff College in Norfolk, VA. He is expected to complete the course requirements towards Joint Professional Military Education (JPME) I in June 2005.
Listed Below is A Chronology of the Significant Billets Served:
· 2002-Present: Naval Station Norfolk, VA.
· 2000-2002: USS SHREVEPORT (LPD-12), Norfolk, VA.
· 1998-2000: Naval Training Center Great Lakes, IL.
· 1995-1998 Third Battalion, Seventh Marines - Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center, Twentynine Palms, CA.
Chaplain Brown’s military awards are as follows:
Navy-Marine Corps Commendation Medal, Navy-Marine Corps Achievement Medal (2); Navy Unit Commendation Ribbon, Meritorious Unit Commendation Ribbon (2), Fleet Marine Force Ribbon, National Defense Medal (2); Global War on Terror Expeditionary Medal (Afghanistan), Global War on Terror Medal and Sea Service Deployment Ribbon (2).
Chaplain Brown has been married to his wife, the former Rayna Turner of Richmond, VA, for eleven years and together they have a son, Jonathan, and reside in Chesapeake, VA.
Dear Bishop Richardson,
Greetings in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ! By the grace and mercy of God, I am pleased to offer this tenth report to the Virginia Annual Conference as a Navy Chaplain. I would like to begin by extending a warm welcome, or as we say in the Navy, “Welcome Aboard!” to you and Mrs. Richardson. Also praise God for the love and support that I continually receive from my wife, Rayna, and my son, Jonathan. They are truly “the wind beneath my wings” and I am blessed to have them in my life.
Here is a brief synopsis of the ministry over the past conference year:
Present Assignment
I am currently assigned to Naval Station Norfolk, VA, which is the largest naval base in the world. Naval Station Norfolk is referred to as “shore duty” in that there is a miniscule chance that personnel assigned to the naval station will ever deploy. However, my primary task is to provide for the spiritual and pastoral care needs of those who are impacted by deployment, the Sailors, Marines and family members of the naval station. In this supporting role, I participate in conduct worship services, administration of the sacraments, counseling, deployment preparation, and official military and civic ceremonies.
Local Ministry
Being assigned to Naval Station Norfolk allows me to be an active participant within the local church. My family and I are affiliate members of Lee’s Chapel AME Church in Chesapeake, where the Rev. Horace B. Cross is the pastor. Two years ago, Pastor Cross appointed me as the director of Youth/Young Adult Ministry to help restart a dormant Young People’s Department (YPD). My first course of action was to form a youth advisory council from the laity, with one member being from the Women’s Missionary Society (WMS). Mrs. Pam Harris, the member of the advisory council from the WMS, was later appointed as the Director of the YPD and is doing a superb job with our youth. Additionally, Pastor Cross allows me to preach every Fourth Sunday as my schedule permits.
Another highlight of the local ministry was an invitation I received to preach a revival. The Reverend Emmanuel Wasson, III, pastor of Holy Trinity AME Church in Las Vegas, NV, extended the invitation to preach a three-service revival at his church. This invitation to preach a revival was the very first one that I had received since becoming a minister in the AME Church in 1987. The theme scripture was Matthew 28:18-20, “The Great Commission”, which spawned these three sermon topics: “I’ve Got The Power”, “Carry Out Your Orders”, and “What More Do You Need To Know?” I’m pleased to report that God brought revival to Holy Trinity.
Scholarships
Praise God! This is the third year that my wife and I have been able to offer a scholarship to a deserving seminary student at Payne Theological Seminary. The scholarship we have established is called the Ministry Opportunities Fund, which is awarded to the seminarian who has the highest grade point average at the end of their first year of studies. On the evening of May 27th, I am planning to be present at the graduation ceremony to award at this year’s scholarship in the amount of $3000.00.
My wife and I have also established a scholarship at the Proctor School of Theology at Virginia Union University. The name of the scholarship is the Rev. Julia W. McCargo Memorial Scholarship for Women in Ministry. The scholarship is awarded to the top female student who possesses the highest grade point average after her first year of studies. Last year’s award was in the amount of $4000.00. This year, we intend to do something different: make the award of the scholarship $2000.00 and establish a book voucher account for AME students at the seminary’s bookstore. With this act, we’ll be able to support more students than ever.
AME Chaplain’s Association
I began the past conference year as the President of the AME Chaplains Association. It was a distinct privilege to be the representative for over 50 endorsed AME Chaplains serving in the Armed Forces, Veteran’s Administration, Federal Bureau of Prisons South African National Defense as well as our retired colleagues.
During my tenure as president, we have been able to increase the visibility of chaplains throughout the church. We have accomplished this through publishing articles in the Christian Recorder, the AME Herald, filing reports from the CONVOS and attending church seminars and conferences.
I relinquished my position as president at the 2004 General Conference in Indianapolis, IN and was elected as the Historiographer of the AME Chaplain’s Association.
Future Assignment
I have received orders to report to the USS BATAAN (LHD-5) in July, which shall conclude my tour at Naval Station Norfolk. The BATAAN is a multi-purpose amphibious assault ship and it’s primary purpose is to transport United States Marines and their aircraft, vehicles and other equipment to an area of operations for off-load and employment (war fighting). I will be the Lead Protestant Chaplain responsible for the pastoral care needs of over 3,000 Sailors, Marines and family members. Please pray for my family and me as we embark upon this professional transition.
In summary, it’s been an outstanding year in ministry. To God be the glory!
Respectfully submitted,
D. R. BROWN
Lieutenant Commander, U. S. Navy
Chaplain Corps
- Beneath It All – Spirituality – Chaplain John Wesley Morrison, CHC, USN:
"The longest journey is the journey inward."- Dag Hammarskjöld"
Occasionally one sees strange things at sea. The wind, the tide and surface ice will all move in one direction, but sailing majestically in the opposite direction will be an iceberg. How can this be? The reason is not hard to find. We see only a small part of an iceberg - just the tip. Deep down in the water, underneath it all is the base controlled by more powerful, deeper currents.
For human beings, I believe "spirituality" is the powerful deeper current that is within each of us, effecting and directing how we cope with and react to the challenges and blessings of everyday living.
Spirituality can be defined in many ways, meaning something different to each of us, but most notably, spirituality isn't just something people find in a church, temple, mosque, or synagogue. Spirituality isn't necessarily synonymous with religion. Spirituality simply affirms that we have three types of existence: the body, the mind, and the soul. The body is pretty easy to understand. The mind is becoming more so. However, the soul is the toughest part of us to comprehend.
In a practical sense, spirituality can be said to embrace the sweet mysteries of life, those aspects outside the realm of science and intellect: faith, trust, love, truth, compassion, as well as HONOR, COURAGE, and COMMITMENT (the U.S. Navy’s Core Values). Employing spirituality in our everyday lives and working to positively strengthen it in us can even help carry the benefits of traditional medical care beyond its physical limits.
One way of understanding spirituality is through the quality of our relationships. Most importantly, spirituality is concerned with our ability, through our attitudes and actions, to relate to ourselves, to others (family, friends, shipmates, neighbors), and to a Higher Power – GOD. By daily maintenance of a spiritual routine or discipline, many learn to live a spiritual way of life - moving away from fear, self-pity, resentment, and dishonesty, to a life based on trust, gratitude, acceptance and integrity.
So how's your "personal" readiness in the arena of life (self-esteem, relationships, attitude, worldview)? What kind of feedback are you getting from "the one in the mirror" that knows and has to daily deal with the innermost depths of your being?
Just a couple of days before he was assassinated Mahatma Gandhi shared these words which have greatly influenced my own personal spiritual program: "I've learned too... Keep my words positive - words become my behaviors; Keep my behaviors positive - behaviors become my habits; Keep my habits positive - habits become my values; and Keep my values positive - values become my destiny!"
As a Navy Chaplain, I am excited to have an opportunity to journey with men and women bound together in service to our Nation. However, what brings me the most challenge and the most satisfaction is that I get to mix-it-up spiritually with folks from diverse backgrounds, and beliefs. As chaplain I get to engage men and women from the aspect of the Divine - that which makes each and every one of us the unique jewel of great price to our Creator.
I believe within each of us is the signature of a Creator whose love and concern is without bounds. Finding and recognizing this "sacred signature" within is not a destination - it is a way of living that directs the strong powerful currents deep down within us all.
I pray God’s richest blessings upon each of you and trust you will not just profess a faith but walk the spiritual path God has provided exclusively for you.
"…with an attitude of gratitude…"
Chaplain John Wesley Morrison
5. MEDITATION – “GOING FORWARD WITH GOD, RESTORED BY HIS SPIRIT:
1The word of the Lord came to the prophet Zechariah. 2“The Lord was very angry with your forefathers. 3“Return to me,” declares the Lord Almighty, “and I will return to you,” says the Lord Almighty. 5“Where are your forefathers now? And the prophets, do they live forever?” 6Then they repented and said, “The Lord Almighty has done to us what our ways and practices deserve, just as He determined to do.” (Zechariah 1: 1-6)
The prophet Zechariah, whose name means “Yahweh Remembers,” was used by God to call God’s people to repentance and to encourage the people to finish rebuilding the temple in Jerusalem. God desired to restore His people, and their restoration required restoration of their relationship with God. For it was the word of God spoken through Zechariah that we know that it is, “’Not by might nor by power, but by my Spirit,’ says the Lord Almighty.” (Zechariah 4: 6)
The prophet begins his message of encouragement and restoration with a call to repentance. I John 1: 5 – 2: 2, reminds us that true repentance is about recognizing and accepting God’s standard for our lives. As we walk in the light (v.7) of God’s way we are restored to fellowship with other believers and experience continual cleansing from sin.
True repentance requires that we confess our sins (v. 9). To confess sin is to say the same thing God says about sin. So many of the practices and attitudes accepted by believers today reflect what society says but ignore God’s standard for our lives. Gambling, sexual sins, greed, destructive words, and addictions are just a few of the things that are widely accepted in society, yet they break our fellowship with God.
But we have an advocate, Christ Jesus (2:1-2). He speaks in our defense before the Father. He stands right beside us. His sacrifice is the satisfaction of the sentence against us. And when we confess, forgiveness and fellowship in the family of God is restored.
God’s concern for His people and their restoration is deep and unfailing. God not only restores our relationship with Himself but he also sends His Holy Spirit to guide us in our daily lives and empower us to obey follow Him every day.
Pastor James Moody
Quinn Chapel, Chicago
6. PASTOR JAMAL BRYANT, SENIOR PASTOR OF EMPOWERMENT TEMPLE RECENTLY APPEARED ON TRINITY BROADCASTING NETWORK:
Pastor Jamal Bryant appeared on TBN on April 26 at 10 p.m., EDT. Pastor Jamal Harrison is the pastor of Empowerment Temple, 4217-4221 Primrose Avenue, Baltimore, MD 21215, telephone: 410-225-3494, Web: http://www.empowermenttemple.org/
7. THE REVEREND DR. GRANGER BROWNING TO PREACH FOR CHICAGO AREA AME CHURCHES:
On May 23-25, 2005 the AME Churches of Chicago will conduct a revival series of meetings featuring Dr. Grainger Browning of Ebenezer AME of Fort Washington, Maryland. Please be a prayer warrior and pray for the following:
1. A fresh and enduring move of the Holy Spirit in the AME Church in the City of Chicago and Vicinity, bringing us to a “Time of Repentance, Restoration, and Empowerment.”
2. For God to prick the hearts of members and ministers in the AME Church, resulting in record attendance of the upcoming revival events.
3. The anointing of the Holy Spirit on our preacher, the Rev. Dr. Grainger Browning, as he delivers the word of God to the people of God.
4. Souls to be saved, delivered, and transformed by the power God moving on us during the revival event.
God has not forgotten us. It is His desire to bring restoration and empowerment to His church through the work of His Holy Spirit. True restoration will be accomplished, “Not by might, nor by power, but by my Spirit.”
Pastor James Moody
Quinn Chapel, Chicago
8. PRAYER REQUEST FOR A NEW CHURCH PLANTING:
Good Afternoon all you beautiful people!!
Please join me in prayer tomorrow for the Yuma church plant, Christ Is King AME Church.
My Mom and her group of senior prayer warriors have prayed and “the big guns” have already been fired;”I have now come to run the play.”
Tomorrow another prayer warrior and I will be in Yuma praying from 9:00 - 11:00 a.m. California Time (PST). Will you please pray and join us in prayer: That:
1. God will call those who are to participate in the ministry: the unsaved, the back-slidden, new Christians, established Christians, people hungry for God, and those looking to interact with God in new and creative innovative ways
2. God will call those with an array of gifts to give to and participate in the ministry: people with a servant-hearts, those with the gifts of administration, business and finance, music, worship & praise, helps, tithers, generous givers, computer “geeks,” elder and child care workers, construction workers, and those with strong spiritual and committed leadership.
3. Favor with the city and current church leaders
4. Final details with the radio ministry, webpage, and newspaper get worked out
5. Confirmation of in which Community Center to hold the initial church services.
If I may also add a personal prayer request:
I will be beginning a Doctoral program in August; I don't have “one dime” to put toward the tuition and travel expenses; please pray that I will receive a 100% scholarship and that God will open the windows of heaven and pour me out a blessing that I will not have room enough to receive it.
I know that my God is faithful,
May God Continue to Bless You,
Villa White
9. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
Regretfully we share the news of the passing of Rev. Thomas R. Jones, retired pastor of the Baltimore Conference, husband of Brenda Jones. Rev. Thomas R. Jones passed Friday morning, April 29th. The funeral will be on Thursday, May 5th, 2005 at Grace AME Church, 671/2 Winters Lane, Catonsville, Maryland at 12:00 Noon. The wake is at 11:00 AM. Please keep the family in prayer.
Rev. Dr. Joan L. WhartonMt. Zion AME Church"I can do all things through Christ who gives me the strength."
j.l.wharton@att.net
10. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
Regretfully we share news of the passing of Mrs. Ruby Kirkland Jones, sister of Bishop Theodore Larry Kirkland, Presiding Bishop of the Ninth Episcopal District of the African Methodist Episcopal Church. Mrs. Ruby Kirkland Jones, the elder sister of Bishop T. Larry Kirkland, passed this morning, Friday, April 29th.
Pending funeral arrangement details will be forthcoming.
Messages of condolence may be sent to:
Bishop Theodore Larry Kirkland & Family
2101 Daniel Payne Drive
Building 2Birmingham, AL 35212
205-791-1908205-791-1905 – FAX
11. FUNERAL NOTICE:
We regret to inform you that retired Rev. Oliver Thomas passed away on Friday, April 22, 2005. He was a pastor in the New Jersey Conference.
The following information has been provided regarding funeral arrangements.
Funeral - Wednesday, April 27, 2005Service - 11:00 a.m.
Stiney's Funeral Home
P. O. Box 543
Hardeeville, South Carolina 29927
Elder Raymond J. Hamilton, Funeral Director
Condolences may be sent to: Mrs. Julia Thomasc/o Stiney's Funeral Home at the above address Fax no.: 843-784-6629
Please remember the Thomas family in your prayers during this time of their bereavement.
12. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
Presiding Elder Walter Daniels of the South Atlanta District of the Atlanta North Georgia Conference of the Sixth Episcopal District recently lost his step-father, Mr. Wessell McCloughin of Windsor, Connecticut.
The service was held on Saturday, April 23, 2005 at 11:00 a.m. at Connecticut Valley Church of Christ. Condolences can be sent to the following:
Mrs. Frances McCloughin (Bereaved wife/mother of PE Daniels @ 89 years of age/married 42 years)
No. 6 Amy Drive
Windsor, Connecticut 06095
860-219-0269or
Presiding Elder Walter & Shirley Daniels
5225 Cascade Road, SW
Atlanta, GA 30331
404-472-3028
For more information, contact:
B. B. Calloway
SED Office Administrator
770-220-1770770-220-9996(fax)
www.sixthepiscopaldistrict.org
13. ALL BEREAVEMENT NOTICES PROVIDED BY:
Sister 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)
The Reverend Dr. Johnny Barbour, Jr., Publisher
The Reverend Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III, Editor
1. EDITOR’S CORNER:
- My visit to Harare, Zimbabwe and Johannesburg South Africa
I returned from my visit to Harare, Zimbabwe where I attended the Global Development Council (GDC) and Johannesburg, South Africa yesterday. I have to say that the GDC meeting and interacting with the bishops, ministers, and laity was an awesome experience. To see some of our churches and to speak with pastors is something that I need to share with our readership as well as the engaging conversation I had over lunch with several of our overseas bishops. I am going to get this issue out now, but I am working on my trip report which I hope to have ready for tomorrow’s issue. The Reverend Dr. George Flowers, our most capable Secretary of Global Witness and Missions was my travel partner and travel mentor. I refer to him as “most capable” because it was quickly apparent to me that he knows his overseas territory and has the respect of the Episcopal, ministerial, and lay leadership from across the overseas districts. Bishops Wilfred Messiah, James Davis, Carolyn Tyler Guidry, Samuel Green, and Sarah Davis were the Episcopal representatives in attendance, along with General Officers George Flowers and yours truly. Connectional Officers present were, a wonderful lady who Dr. Flowers introduced to me as, “Mother Precious” (I will have her full name by tomorrow’s issue) and Brother Weldon Shuman, 2nd Vice-President of the Connectional Lay Organization. Episcopal Supervisors present were Carol Messiah, Donovan Guidry, and Claytie Davis. Bishop Messiah was elected as the chair of the GDC. And, the sermon by the Right Reverend Sarah Davis was magnificent.
I am going to stop right here and do a full report of the GDC and my visit to South Africa and Zimbabwe in the next issue of The Christian Recorder.
- Here is a question: When (what year) was the first AME Hymnal published and who were the compilers? I need the precise answer to my question within 24 hours of the posting of this edition of The Christian Recorder Online.
Prize: Subscription to any AME periodical
2. INFORMATION REGARDING THE HAMPTON UNIVERSITY MINISTERS’ CONFERENCE:
Go to http://www.hamptonu.edu/ and then click on “Calendar of Events” after which you will click on “Ministers Conference” or email:
ministersconference@hamptonu.edu
The HU Ministers Conference will be held on June 5-10, 2005. The AME Luncheon will be held at the Radisson Hotel, within walking distance of the campus, on Thursday, June 9, 2005 at 1:30 p.m.
3. SISTER LAURA C. EVERETT PROVIDES SCHOLARSHIP INFORMATION:
The Massachusetts Council of Churches is offering seven full scholarships to qualified seminarians, theology students and recently ordained clergy to attend the Northeast Ecumenical Institute, of which we are a co-sponsor with three Roman Catholic religious orders. The scholarships will be given to stimulate and encourage new ecumenical leadership. If you know of any seminarians or recently ordained clergy who might be interested, I'd appreciate if you sent this their way and post this in your papers. We are really making a concerted effort to help folks attend who might not be able to otherwise and also reach out to potential ecumenists. I've included below the Website for the Massachusetts Council of Churches that gives a brief introduction to the institute, application, registration form, and institute agenda. They can also all be obtained on our webpage at http://www.masscouncilofchurches.org/.
Thank you kindly and please feel free to contact me with any questions,
In God's Peace,
Laura C Everett
E-mail: council@masscouncilofchurches.org for additional information
The Board of Directors of the Massachusetts Council of Churches has authorized the granting of scholarships using funds from an offering given at the MCC’s Annual Meeting and the Hope for the Future Fund. A sub-committee of the MCC Board will select the recipients.
4. THE CHAPLAINS CORNER:
- Chaplain David R. Brown will make his Annual Chaplain Report at the Virginia Annual Conference.
Chaplain David R. Brown is a native Cranford, New Jersey. He is an ordained Itinerant Elder within the African Methodist Episcopal Church and has served as a pastor within the church for three years prior to Active Duty. He has been a Navy Chaplain for over nine years and is presently serving as a Staff Chaplain at the Naval Station Norfolk Chapel in Norfolk, Virginia.
Chaplain Brown has earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from Virginia State University in Petersburg, Virginia and a Master of Divinity degree from the Proctor School of Theology of Virginia Union University in Richmond, Virginia. He is currently enrolled as a student in the Marine Corps Command and Staff College Distant Education Program (CSCDEP), which is a seminar course held at the Joint Forces Staff College in Norfolk, VA. He is expected to complete the course requirements towards Joint Professional Military Education (JPME) I in June 2005.
Listed Below is A Chronology of the Significant Billets Served:
· 2002-Present: Naval Station Norfolk, VA.
· 2000-2002: USS SHREVEPORT (LPD-12), Norfolk, VA.
· 1998-2000: Naval Training Center Great Lakes, IL.
· 1995-1998 Third Battalion, Seventh Marines - Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center, Twentynine Palms, CA.
Chaplain Brown’s military awards are as follows:
Navy-Marine Corps Commendation Medal, Navy-Marine Corps Achievement Medal (2); Navy Unit Commendation Ribbon, Meritorious Unit Commendation Ribbon (2), Fleet Marine Force Ribbon, National Defense Medal (2); Global War on Terror Expeditionary Medal (Afghanistan), Global War on Terror Medal and Sea Service Deployment Ribbon (2).
Chaplain Brown has been married to his wife, the former Rayna Turner of Richmond, VA, for eleven years and together they have a son, Jonathan, and reside in Chesapeake, VA.
Dear Bishop Richardson,
Greetings in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ! By the grace and mercy of God, I am pleased to offer this tenth report to the Virginia Annual Conference as a Navy Chaplain. I would like to begin by extending a warm welcome, or as we say in the Navy, “Welcome Aboard!” to you and Mrs. Richardson. Also praise God for the love and support that I continually receive from my wife, Rayna, and my son, Jonathan. They are truly “the wind beneath my wings” and I am blessed to have them in my life.
Here is a brief synopsis of the ministry over the past conference year:
Present Assignment
I am currently assigned to Naval Station Norfolk, VA, which is the largest naval base in the world. Naval Station Norfolk is referred to as “shore duty” in that there is a miniscule chance that personnel assigned to the naval station will ever deploy. However, my primary task is to provide for the spiritual and pastoral care needs of those who are impacted by deployment, the Sailors, Marines and family members of the naval station. In this supporting role, I participate in conduct worship services, administration of the sacraments, counseling, deployment preparation, and official military and civic ceremonies.
Local Ministry
Being assigned to Naval Station Norfolk allows me to be an active participant within the local church. My family and I are affiliate members of Lee’s Chapel AME Church in Chesapeake, where the Rev. Horace B. Cross is the pastor. Two years ago, Pastor Cross appointed me as the director of Youth/Young Adult Ministry to help restart a dormant Young People’s Department (YPD). My first course of action was to form a youth advisory council from the laity, with one member being from the Women’s Missionary Society (WMS). Mrs. Pam Harris, the member of the advisory council from the WMS, was later appointed as the Director of the YPD and is doing a superb job with our youth. Additionally, Pastor Cross allows me to preach every Fourth Sunday as my schedule permits.
Another highlight of the local ministry was an invitation I received to preach a revival. The Reverend Emmanuel Wasson, III, pastor of Holy Trinity AME Church in Las Vegas, NV, extended the invitation to preach a three-service revival at his church. This invitation to preach a revival was the very first one that I had received since becoming a minister in the AME Church in 1987. The theme scripture was Matthew 28:18-20, “The Great Commission”, which spawned these three sermon topics: “I’ve Got The Power”, “Carry Out Your Orders”, and “What More Do You Need To Know?” I’m pleased to report that God brought revival to Holy Trinity.
Scholarships
Praise God! This is the third year that my wife and I have been able to offer a scholarship to a deserving seminary student at Payne Theological Seminary. The scholarship we have established is called the Ministry Opportunities Fund, which is awarded to the seminarian who has the highest grade point average at the end of their first year of studies. On the evening of May 27th, I am planning to be present at the graduation ceremony to award at this year’s scholarship in the amount of $3000.00.
My wife and I have also established a scholarship at the Proctor School of Theology at Virginia Union University. The name of the scholarship is the Rev. Julia W. McCargo Memorial Scholarship for Women in Ministry. The scholarship is awarded to the top female student who possesses the highest grade point average after her first year of studies. Last year’s award was in the amount of $4000.00. This year, we intend to do something different: make the award of the scholarship $2000.00 and establish a book voucher account for AME students at the seminary’s bookstore. With this act, we’ll be able to support more students than ever.
AME Chaplain’s Association
I began the past conference year as the President of the AME Chaplains Association. It was a distinct privilege to be the representative for over 50 endorsed AME Chaplains serving in the Armed Forces, Veteran’s Administration, Federal Bureau of Prisons South African National Defense as well as our retired colleagues.
During my tenure as president, we have been able to increase the visibility of chaplains throughout the church. We have accomplished this through publishing articles in the Christian Recorder, the AME Herald, filing reports from the CONVOS and attending church seminars and conferences.
I relinquished my position as president at the 2004 General Conference in Indianapolis, IN and was elected as the Historiographer of the AME Chaplain’s Association.
Future Assignment
I have received orders to report to the USS BATAAN (LHD-5) in July, which shall conclude my tour at Naval Station Norfolk. The BATAAN is a multi-purpose amphibious assault ship and it’s primary purpose is to transport United States Marines and their aircraft, vehicles and other equipment to an area of operations for off-load and employment (war fighting). I will be the Lead Protestant Chaplain responsible for the pastoral care needs of over 3,000 Sailors, Marines and family members. Please pray for my family and me as we embark upon this professional transition.
In summary, it’s been an outstanding year in ministry. To God be the glory!
Respectfully submitted,
D. R. BROWN
Lieutenant Commander, U. S. Navy
Chaplain Corps
- Beneath It All – Spirituality – Chaplain John Wesley Morrison, CHC, USN:
"The longest journey is the journey inward."- Dag Hammarskjöld"
Occasionally one sees strange things at sea. The wind, the tide and surface ice will all move in one direction, but sailing majestically in the opposite direction will be an iceberg. How can this be? The reason is not hard to find. We see only a small part of an iceberg - just the tip. Deep down in the water, underneath it all is the base controlled by more powerful, deeper currents.
For human beings, I believe "spirituality" is the powerful deeper current that is within each of us, effecting and directing how we cope with and react to the challenges and blessings of everyday living.
Spirituality can be defined in many ways, meaning something different to each of us, but most notably, spirituality isn't just something people find in a church, temple, mosque, or synagogue. Spirituality isn't necessarily synonymous with religion. Spirituality simply affirms that we have three types of existence: the body, the mind, and the soul. The body is pretty easy to understand. The mind is becoming more so. However, the soul is the toughest part of us to comprehend.
In a practical sense, spirituality can be said to embrace the sweet mysteries of life, those aspects outside the realm of science and intellect: faith, trust, love, truth, compassion, as well as HONOR, COURAGE, and COMMITMENT (the U.S. Navy’s Core Values). Employing spirituality in our everyday lives and working to positively strengthen it in us can even help carry the benefits of traditional medical care beyond its physical limits.
One way of understanding spirituality is through the quality of our relationships. Most importantly, spirituality is concerned with our ability, through our attitudes and actions, to relate to ourselves, to others (family, friends, shipmates, neighbors), and to a Higher Power – GOD. By daily maintenance of a spiritual routine or discipline, many learn to live a spiritual way of life - moving away from fear, self-pity, resentment, and dishonesty, to a life based on trust, gratitude, acceptance and integrity.
So how's your "personal" readiness in the arena of life (self-esteem, relationships, attitude, worldview)? What kind of feedback are you getting from "the one in the mirror" that knows and has to daily deal with the innermost depths of your being?
Just a couple of days before he was assassinated Mahatma Gandhi shared these words which have greatly influenced my own personal spiritual program: "I've learned too... Keep my words positive - words become my behaviors; Keep my behaviors positive - behaviors become my habits; Keep my habits positive - habits become my values; and Keep my values positive - values become my destiny!"
As a Navy Chaplain, I am excited to have an opportunity to journey with men and women bound together in service to our Nation. However, what brings me the most challenge and the most satisfaction is that I get to mix-it-up spiritually with folks from diverse backgrounds, and beliefs. As chaplain I get to engage men and women from the aspect of the Divine - that which makes each and every one of us the unique jewel of great price to our Creator.
I believe within each of us is the signature of a Creator whose love and concern is without bounds. Finding and recognizing this "sacred signature" within is not a destination - it is a way of living that directs the strong powerful currents deep down within us all.
I pray God’s richest blessings upon each of you and trust you will not just profess a faith but walk the spiritual path God has provided exclusively for you.
"…with an attitude of gratitude…"
Chaplain John Wesley Morrison
5. MEDITATION – “GOING FORWARD WITH GOD, RESTORED BY HIS SPIRIT:
1The word of the Lord came to the prophet Zechariah. 2“The Lord was very angry with your forefathers. 3“Return to me,” declares the Lord Almighty, “and I will return to you,” says the Lord Almighty. 5“Where are your forefathers now? And the prophets, do they live forever?” 6Then they repented and said, “The Lord Almighty has done to us what our ways and practices deserve, just as He determined to do.” (Zechariah 1: 1-6)
The prophet Zechariah, whose name means “Yahweh Remembers,” was used by God to call God’s people to repentance and to encourage the people to finish rebuilding the temple in Jerusalem. God desired to restore His people, and their restoration required restoration of their relationship with God. For it was the word of God spoken through Zechariah that we know that it is, “’Not by might nor by power, but by my Spirit,’ says the Lord Almighty.” (Zechariah 4: 6)
The prophet begins his message of encouragement and restoration with a call to repentance. I John 1: 5 – 2: 2, reminds us that true repentance is about recognizing and accepting God’s standard for our lives. As we walk in the light (v.7) of God’s way we are restored to fellowship with other believers and experience continual cleansing from sin.
True repentance requires that we confess our sins (v. 9). To confess sin is to say the same thing God says about sin. So many of the practices and attitudes accepted by believers today reflect what society says but ignore God’s standard for our lives. Gambling, sexual sins, greed, destructive words, and addictions are just a few of the things that are widely accepted in society, yet they break our fellowship with God.
But we have an advocate, Christ Jesus (2:1-2). He speaks in our defense before the Father. He stands right beside us. His sacrifice is the satisfaction of the sentence against us. And when we confess, forgiveness and fellowship in the family of God is restored.
God’s concern for His people and their restoration is deep and unfailing. God not only restores our relationship with Himself but he also sends His Holy Spirit to guide us in our daily lives and empower us to obey follow Him every day.
Pastor James Moody
Quinn Chapel, Chicago
6. PASTOR JAMAL BRYANT, SENIOR PASTOR OF EMPOWERMENT TEMPLE RECENTLY APPEARED ON TRINITY BROADCASTING NETWORK:
Pastor Jamal Bryant appeared on TBN on April 26 at 10 p.m., EDT. Pastor Jamal Harrison is the pastor of Empowerment Temple, 4217-4221 Primrose Avenue, Baltimore, MD 21215, telephone: 410-225-3494, Web: http://www.empowermenttemple.org/
7. THE REVEREND DR. GRANGER BROWNING TO PREACH FOR CHICAGO AREA AME CHURCHES:
On May 23-25, 2005 the AME Churches of Chicago will conduct a revival series of meetings featuring Dr. Grainger Browning of Ebenezer AME of Fort Washington, Maryland. Please be a prayer warrior and pray for the following:
1. A fresh and enduring move of the Holy Spirit in the AME Church in the City of Chicago and Vicinity, bringing us to a “Time of Repentance, Restoration, and Empowerment.”
2. For God to prick the hearts of members and ministers in the AME Church, resulting in record attendance of the upcoming revival events.
3. The anointing of the Holy Spirit on our preacher, the Rev. Dr. Grainger Browning, as he delivers the word of God to the people of God.
4. Souls to be saved, delivered, and transformed by the power God moving on us during the revival event.
God has not forgotten us. It is His desire to bring restoration and empowerment to His church through the work of His Holy Spirit. True restoration will be accomplished, “Not by might, nor by power, but by my Spirit.”
Pastor James Moody
Quinn Chapel, Chicago
8. PRAYER REQUEST FOR A NEW CHURCH PLANTING:
Good Afternoon all you beautiful people!!
Please join me in prayer tomorrow for the Yuma church plant, Christ Is King AME Church.
My Mom and her group of senior prayer warriors have prayed and “the big guns” have already been fired;”I have now come to run the play.”
Tomorrow another prayer warrior and I will be in Yuma praying from 9:00 - 11:00 a.m. California Time (PST). Will you please pray and join us in prayer: That:
1. God will call those who are to participate in the ministry: the unsaved, the back-slidden, new Christians, established Christians, people hungry for God, and those looking to interact with God in new and creative innovative ways
2. God will call those with an array of gifts to give to and participate in the ministry: people with a servant-hearts, those with the gifts of administration, business and finance, music, worship & praise, helps, tithers, generous givers, computer “geeks,” elder and child care workers, construction workers, and those with strong spiritual and committed leadership.
3. Favor with the city and current church leaders
4. Final details with the radio ministry, webpage, and newspaper get worked out
5. Confirmation of in which Community Center to hold the initial church services.
If I may also add a personal prayer request:
I will be beginning a Doctoral program in August; I don't have “one dime” to put toward the tuition and travel expenses; please pray that I will receive a 100% scholarship and that God will open the windows of heaven and pour me out a blessing that I will not have room enough to receive it.
I know that my God is faithful,
May God Continue to Bless You,
Villa White
9. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
Regretfully we share the news of the passing of Rev. Thomas R. Jones, retired pastor of the Baltimore Conference, husband of Brenda Jones. Rev. Thomas R. Jones passed Friday morning, April 29th. The funeral will be on Thursday, May 5th, 2005 at Grace AME Church, 671/2 Winters Lane, Catonsville, Maryland at 12:00 Noon. The wake is at 11:00 AM. Please keep the family in prayer.
Rev. Dr. Joan L. WhartonMt. Zion AME Church"I can do all things through Christ who gives me the strength."
j.l.wharton@att.net
10. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
Regretfully we share news of the passing of Mrs. Ruby Kirkland Jones, sister of Bishop Theodore Larry Kirkland, Presiding Bishop of the Ninth Episcopal District of the African Methodist Episcopal Church. Mrs. Ruby Kirkland Jones, the elder sister of Bishop T. Larry Kirkland, passed this morning, Friday, April 29th.
Pending funeral arrangement details will be forthcoming.
Messages of condolence may be sent to:
Bishop Theodore Larry Kirkland & Family
2101 Daniel Payne Drive
Building 2Birmingham, AL 35212
205-791-1908205-791-1905 – FAX
11. FUNERAL NOTICE:
We regret to inform you that retired Rev. Oliver Thomas passed away on Friday, April 22, 2005. He was a pastor in the New Jersey Conference.
The following information has been provided regarding funeral arrangements.
Funeral - Wednesday, April 27, 2005Service - 11:00 a.m.
Stiney's Funeral Home
P. O. Box 543
Hardeeville, South Carolina 29927
Elder Raymond J. Hamilton, Funeral Director
Condolences may be sent to: Mrs. Julia Thomasc/o Stiney's Funeral Home at the above address Fax no.: 843-784-6629
Please remember the Thomas family in your prayers during this time of their bereavement.
12. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
Presiding Elder Walter Daniels of the South Atlanta District of the Atlanta North Georgia Conference of the Sixth Episcopal District recently lost his step-father, Mr. Wessell McCloughin of Windsor, Connecticut.
The service was held on Saturday, April 23, 2005 at 11:00 a.m. at Connecticut Valley Church of Christ. Condolences can be sent to the following:
Mrs. Frances McCloughin (Bereaved wife/mother of PE Daniels @ 89 years of age/married 42 years)
No. 6 Amy Drive
Windsor, Connecticut 06095
860-219-0269or
Presiding Elder Walter & Shirley Daniels
5225 Cascade Road, SW
Atlanta, GA 30331
404-472-3028
For more information, contact:
B. B. Calloway
SED Office Administrator
770-220-1770770-220-9996(fax)
www.sixthepiscopaldistrict.org
13. ALL BEREAVEMENT NOTICES PROVIDED BY:
Sister 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)