Bishop Gregory G. M. Ingram - Chair, Commission on Publications
The Reverend Dr. Johnny Barbour, Jr., Publisher
The Reverend Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III, Editor
Editor’s Note: The Spanish and Portuguese Editions of Christian Recorder have been posted. Please click on the link dated 6/23/06.
Nota do Editor: As Edições Espanholas e Portuguese do registrador Christian foram afixadas. Estale por favor sobre a ligação datou 6/23/06.
Nota del Redactor: Las Ediciones Españolas y Portuguéas del Registrador Cristiano se han fijado. Chasque por favor encendido el acoplamiento fechó 6/23/06.
1. THE 2006 SUMMER CONVOCATION AND ANNUAL CONFERENCE SCHEDULES FOR THE 10TH EPISCOPAL DISTRICT:
The Rt. Rev. Gregory G. M. Ingram, Presiding Prelate
The Rev. Dr. Jessica Kendall Ingram, 9th District Women’s Missionary Society Episcopal Supervisor
Summer Convocation 2006
July 19 –July21, 2006
Paul Quinn College
3837 Simpson Stuart Road
Dallas, Texas
Host Church – St. James AME Church
Host Pastor – Rev. Elliott Lambert
Happy Birthday – Rev. Dr. Jessica Kendall Ingram, July 25, 2006
International Women's Convocation 2006
August 16-19, 2006
Wyndham Anatole Hotel
2201 Stemmons Freeway
Dallas, Texas 75207
2006 NORTHWEST TEXAS ANNUAL CONFERENCE – Waco, Texas
September 11 –September 16, 2006
September 9, 2006 – YPD Day
September 11, 2006 – Missionary Day
September 12, 2006 – The Gathering of Women
Tuesday, September 12, 2006 – Annual Conference Opening Worship Service 7:10 p.m.
Hilton Hotel
113 South University Parks Drive
Waco, Texas
Reservations – 254-754-8484
Deadline for reservations – August 14, 2006
Cost per night – $119.00
FREE - Self -Parking
Host Church – St. Luke A.M.E. Church, Waco, TX
Host Pastor – Rev. Pamela Riveria
2006 NORTH TEXAS ANNUAL CONFERENCE – Tyler, Texas
September 25 – September 30, 2006
September 23, 2006 – YPD Day
September 25, 2006 – Missionary Day
September 26, 2006 – The Gathering of Women
Tuesday, September 26, 2006 - Annual Conference Opening Worship Service 7:10 p.m.
Holiday Inn Select
5701 South Broadway
Tyler, Texas
Reservations – 903-561-5800
Deadline for reservations – September 2, 2006
Cost per night – $90.00
FREE - Self -Parking
Host Church – Ebenezer A.M.E. Church, Tyler, TX
Host Pastor – Rev. Mittie Muse
2006 SOUTHWEST TEXAS ANNUAL CONFERENCE – San Antonio, Texas
October 10 – October 14, 2006
October 7, 2006 – YPD Day October 9, 2006 – Missionary Day
October 10, 2006 – The Gathering of Women
Tuesday, October 10, 2006 - Annual Conference Opening Worship Service 7:10 p.m.
Hilton San Antonio Airport
611 NW Loop 410
San Antonio, Texas 78216
Reservations – 210-340-6060
Deadline for reservations – September 11, 2006
Cost per night – $119.00
FREE - Self -Parking
Host Church – Emmanuel A.M.E. Church, San Antonio, TX
Host Pastor – Rev. I. V. Tolbert
2006 TEXAS ANNUAL CONFERENCE – Houston Texas
October 23 – October 28, 2006
October 21, 2006 – YPD Day
October 23, 2006 – Missionary Day
October 24, 2006 – The Gathering of Women
Tuesday, October 24, 2006 - Annual Conference Opening Worship Service 7:10 p.m.
Wyndham Greenspoint Hotel
12400 Greenspoint Drive
Houston, Texas
Reservations – 281-875-2222
Deadline for reservations – October 5, 2006
Cost per night – $120.00
Host Church – Brown Chapel A.M.E. Church, Houston, TX
Host Pastor – Rev. Dr. Ruben Braziel, Sr.
Planning Meeting 2006
November 15 – November 18, 2006
The Richardson Hotel
701 E. Campbell Road
Richardson, Texas
Reservations – 972-231-9600 Deadline for reservations – October 20, 2006
Cost per night – $105.00
Host Church – Agape Temple
Host Pastor – Rev. Ella Mae McDonald
2. THE 2006 ANNUAL CONFERENCE SCHEDULE OF THE NINTH EPISCOPAL DISTRICT:
The Right Reverend T. LARRY KIRKLAND, Presiding Bishop
Mrs. Mary Kirkland, 9th District Women’s Missionary Society Supervisor
ALABAMA ANNUAL CONFERENCE
September 6-10, 2006
September 6, 2006, The WMS Conference Branch Annual Meeting
Ward Chapel A.M.E. Church
130 West 4th Street
Prattville, AL 36067
Ph. (334) 365-7962
Presiding Elder G. L. Townsend, Interim Pastor
The Rev. G. L. Townsend, Host P. E
The Rev. Leo E. Brock, Assoc. P. E.
SOUTH ALABAMA ANNUAL CONFERENCE
September 13-17, 2006
September 13, 2006, The WMS Conference Branch Annual Meeting
St. Paul A.M.E. Church
702 Andrews Avenue
Ozark, AL 36360
Ph. (334) 7745509
The Rev. Horace Fitchard, Host Pastor
The Rev. Willis N. Huggins, Host Presiding Elder
The Rev. David E. Reddick, Assoc. Presiding Elder
EAST ALABAMA CONFERENCE
September 20-24, 2006
September 20, 2006, The WMS Conference Branch Annual Meeting
Grant Chapel A.M.E. Church
P. O. Box 1012
Calera, AL 35040
Ph. (205) 668-3140
The Rev. Verlon Houston, Host Pastor
The Rev. Ralph Neal, Host P.E.
The Rev. W. G. Treadwell, Assoc. P.E.
NORTH ALABAMA CONFERENCE
October 4-8, 2006
October 4, 2006, The WMS Conference Branch Annual Meeting
St. John A.M.E. Church
229 Church Street
Huntsville, AL 35801
Ph. (256) 534-3265
The Rev. Homer L. McCall, Host Pastor
The Rev. Dwight E. Dillard, Host P.E.
The Rev. Albert L. Hyche, Assoc. P.E.
CENTRAL ALABAMA CONFERENCE
October 11-15, 2006
October 11, 2006, The WMS Conference Branch Annual Meeting
Samuel Chapel A.M.E. Church
717 West Prichard Avenue
Prichard, AL 36610
Ph. (251) 456-7588
The Rev. W. E. Marshall, Host Pastor
The Rev. Ernest A. Rouse, Host P.E.
The Rev. W. T. Lesueur, Assoc. P.E.
WEST ALABAMA CONFERENCE
October 18-22, 2006
October 18, 2006, The WMS Conference Branch Annual Meeting
Bryant Chapel A.M.E. Church
3125 Spaulding St., SW
Birmingham, AL 35221
Ph. (205) 925-7151
The Rev. Tommy Hagler, Host Pastor
The Rev. Myers Hawkins, Jr., Host P. E.
The Rev. Truman A. Reynolds, Assoc. P.E.
PLANNING MEETING
November 3-4, 2006
St. Paul A.M.E. Church
706 East Patton Avenue
Montgomery, AL 36111
Ph. (334) 286-8577
The Rev. Joseph Rembert, Sr., Pastor
3. CORRECTED EIGHTH EPISCOPAL DISTRICT 2006 SCHEDULE
ANNUAL CONFERENCES:
The Right Reverend Cornal Garnett Henning, Sr., Presiding Bishop
Mississippi Conference
August 29, 2006 - WMS Convention
August 30- September 1, 2006
Zion Chapel A.M.E. Church
621 New Orleans Street - Hattiesburg, MS 39401
Church Phone: (601) 583-40331The Rev. A. J. Parnell, Host PastorThe Rev. Joseph E. Young, Host Presiding ElderRevivalist - TBA/Ordination Preacher - TBA
East Mississippi Conference
September 5, 2006 - WMS Convention
September 6-9, 2006
China Grove A.M.E. Church
1060 Mannsdale Road, Madison MS 39110
Church Phone: (601) 856-7348
The Rev. Dock Cooper, Host Pastor
St. Paul A.M.E. Church
Hwy 463 & Crawford Street - Madison MS 39110
Church Phone: (601) 982-9969
The Rev. Archie Smith, Host Pastor
The Rev. Michele Goodloe, Jr., Host Presiding Elder
Revivalist - TBA/Ordination Preacher - TBA
Northeast West Mississippi Conference
September 19, 2006 - WMS Convention
September 20-23, 2006
Faith Community A.M.E. Church
7340 Green Brook Parkway - Southaven, MS 38671
Church Phone: (662) 393-8991
The Rev. J. L. Moore, Host Pastor
The Rev. J. L. Moore, Host Presiding Elder
Revivalist - TBA/Ordination Preacher - TBA
Central North Mississippi Conference
September 19, 2006 - WMS Convention
September 20-23, 2006
Faith Community A.M.E. Church
7340 Green Brook Parkway - Southaven, MS 38671
Church Phone: (662) 393-8991
The Rev. J. L. Moore, Host Pastor
The Rev. J. L. Moore, Host Presiding Elder
The Rev. Lorenzo G. Clarke, Host Presiding Elder
Revivalist - TBA/Ordination Preacher - TBA
North Louisiana Conference
October 3, 2006 - WMS Convention
October 4-7, 2006
St. James A.M.E. Church
604 Second Street - Lake Providence, LA 71254
(318) 559-0070
The Rev. James Coleman, Host Pastor
The Rev. Earl A. James, Host Presiding Elder
Revivalist - TBA/Ordination Preacher - TBA
Central Louisiana Conference
October 10, 2006 - WMS Convention
October 11-14, 2006
St. Paul A.M.E. Church
104 Jackson Street - Lake Charles, LA 70601
Church Phone: (318) 433-2415
The Rev. Lionel C. Green, Host Pastor
The Rev. Otis Lewis, Host Presiding Elder
Revivalist - TBA/Ordination Preacher - TBA
Louisiana Conference
October 24, 2006 - WMS Convention
October 25-28, 2006
Bethel A.M.E. Church
1356 South Boulevard- Baton Rouge, LA 70802
Church Phone: (225) 344-6931
The Rev. Herman Kelly, Host Pastor
The Rev. Malvin J. Black, Jr., Host Presiding Elder
Revivalist - TBA/Ordination Preacher - TBA
Eighth District Planning Meeting
November 15, 2006 ~ WMS Meeting
November 16-18, 2006
Bonner Campbell
Edwards, MS
The Rev. William N. Love, Administrator
(601)852-5401
Evelyn H. MarkeyOffice Manager
8th Episcopal District - A.M.E. Church
Post Office Box 6232 -
New Orleans, LA 70174
(504) 458-4099
Office Box 6232 -
New Orleans, LA 70174
(504) 458-4099
4. NAMAYO INITIATIVE 2006
The Rev. Ann Champion Shaw
From April 8th-April 16th, there was a spirit-filled meeting of two worlds with one God. Rev. Dr. Cecelia Williams Bryant, Supervisor of the 5th Episcopal District WMS with Mother Yvonne Kawimbe, Supervisor of the 17th Episcopal District WMS came together with hundreds of women including 120 U.S. Delegates for the Namayo Initiative 2006 which took place in Lusaka, Zambia. Namayo, which means ‘women’ in the Bemba language, sought to minister to the holistic woman particularly those who suffer from HIV/AIDS and other illnesses.
The U.S. delegation arrived on the sacred shores of Zambia and was wonderfully greeted at the Lusaka Airport with the rich harmony and jubilant dance of the Zambian choir. For many of the US delegates, it was their first time on African soil. As a result there were warm hugs, tears of joy, and thanksgiving to God for ordaining this family reunion.
The opening worship service began on Palm Sunday, April 9th where there was a joyful processional which was led by Bishop Paul Kawimbe, the Presiding Prelate of the 17th Episcopal District. The preached word was given to us by the anointed Rev. Dr. Cecelia Williams Bryant who came from the subject, “Let’s Get It Started.” On Wednesday evening, there was a powerful prayer and healing service. Many came from miles around to receive a breakthrough in their financial, emotional, physical, and family tribulations. Truly people were delivered by the manifestation of the Holy Spirit.
The U.S. and Zambian delegation participated and facilitated in several workshops which included: “Living Well with HIV/AIDS” with Dr. Precilla Belin and Sis. Patricia Barnes, RN, “Biblical Foundations for the Healing of the Lord” with Rev. Carolyn Baskin Bell, “Unleashing God’s Power to Heal” with Sister Antoinette Marks, “Recovery for Women Confronting Shame, Depression, Anxiety, and Loss” with Dr. Marilyn Martin, and “Equipping Women for Global Worship” with Atty. Hermia Shegog-Whitlock and Dr. Priscilla Dowden-White. The workshops were resourceful and educational as the facilitators professionally engaged us with these informative topics.
Integrated into the U.S. delegation were medical professionals who volunteered their time and service through the Namayo Clinic. Hundreds of Zambian men, women, and children stood in long lines to receive medical treatment. The medical team, who did such a wonderful job in accommodating the needs of the Zambian patients, was led by Dr. Denise Hooks-Anderson, Dr. Angela Brown, Dr. Codessa Curly, Dr. Marilyn Martin, and Dr. Joyce Sackey.
There were outreach ministries where the delegation was divided into several groups. They were assigned to visit hospices, orphanages, clinics, and prisons. The groups carried suitcases filled with non-prescription medicines, clothing, and other supplies to their destinations. Also, there were financial donations given to each of the facilities.
One of the most rewarding experiences was for those who traveled to Ndola which was four hours away from the capital city of Lusaka. During their travel, these delegates had an opportunity to see the countryside as well as visit AME Churches and their congregants who greeted them with open arms. One of the special highlights for this particular group was their visit to the Ndola Central Hospital where the 5th District W.M.S. presented a check to the hospital as well as a local husband and wife who had just delivered triplets.
On Good Friday, High Noon, the delegation gathered at the great Ebenezer AME Cathedral there in Lusaka for the Seven Last Words of Jesus Christ service. As the gentle breeze blew through the sanctuary, Supervisor Bryant powerfully led us in worship as seven holy-ghost filled sisters exhorted the gospel. Rev. Paxine Mwitubma, Supervisor Rosalyn Kyle Brookins, Rev. Heidi Stevens, Rev. Ann Champion Shaw, Rev. Margaret Mwanza, Rev. Stephanie Butler, and Rev. Joyce Chissala preached God’s word with power and authority.
Early Resurrection Sunday, the U.S. delegation divided into small groups to visit the seven smallest AME churches in the Zambian region. While visiting these churches, each group donated a communion set, altar adornments, supplies, and a love offering to assist with local ministries. The churches showed their appreciation and gratefulness with a hearty thanks and a delicious dinner.
Truly, the Namayo Initiative at Lusaka, Zambia was a spiritual awakening and renewal for all who attended. It was more than an event; it was a journey that brought souls together from across the seas. Through this effort, a place has been carved out in A.M.E. “herstory” in that lives were forever transformed, revitalized, and healed.
Many thanks and appreciation is extended to Bishop Paul & Mother Kawimbe along with the people of Zambia for their kindness and hospitality. Another very special thank you is extended to the visionary motivators, Bishop John and Rev. Dr. Cecelia Williams Bryant and the Fifth District W.M.S. officers led by President Norma Cook. These and so many others played an integral role in creating and implementing an effective model for missions that prophetically speaks from Isaiah 61:1-2 “The Spirit of the Lord is upon me because he has anointed me to preach the good news to the captives. He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners and recovery of sight for the blind, to release the oppressed, to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor.”
5. AME PREACHER RESCUES KIDNAPPED BABY IN SPITE OF A “CLEAR AND PRESENT DANGER”:
The Rev. Polly Wallace Ragsdale, the Pastor of St. Paul AME Church, Tulsa, Oklahoma successfully rescued one of her member’s infant daughter, Passion Simms who is 10 months old. The baby’s father, Willie had kidnapped her the previous day from the baby’s mother, Debbie, after child support papers had been served.
After numerous attempts to reason with the father to bring the baby home, family members attempted to retrieve Passion. The father held them at bay with a knife and refused to release the baby. The family members, including the baby’s grandmother, Lovely, gave up on retrieving the baby because of Willie’s history of violence, criminal history of assault and battery. They also knew that he had a knife and they didn’t want to provoke him to further violence.
Lovely, the baby’s grandmother, alerted her pastor, the Rev. Polly Wallace Ragsdale of the situation. Rev. Ragsdale had baptized baby Passion and in spite of Willie’s being armed with a knife and without thought of her own safety, went to Willie’s home to see if she could rescue the baby.
After praying, Rev. Ragsdale went to the house where baby Passion was being held. Rev. Ragsdale approached the house and demanded that baby Passion to be released to her. The father immediately handed Passion over her and Rev. Ragsdale returned baby Passion to her mother. It was a time for celebration in which the family shared in a joyous time in the Lord.
Written by Sister Jackie Weary
6. ALMOST SCAMMED:
I received a phone call on yesterday evening from someone stating they were a Pastor Davis from Bethel AME and also claiming to know Bishop Grady (it was his great niece) and that they were preparing to leave town. I was informed that he had contacted my Bishop, Bishop Bryant, to see what pastor would best suit his niece and her talents as she was relocating to the St. Louis area.
He went into detail about how she once was the musician for Bishop Ming and was the church musician and choir director. I was excited and thanked him. He told me that she had four children and recently had lost her husband and would arrive in St. Louis on Thursday, June 22 around noon.
He took my contact info and gave me her contact information so we could maintain contact as she traveled. I received a phone call from this woman "Diane" to be told she had run into a little car trouble in Terre Haute Indiana and would call me when she got back on the road. About an hour later I received another phone call and I thought she was calling me to tell me she was on the road. Imagine my surprise when she stated the Firestone dealer charged her over $700.00 and she didn't have the money to pay for it. She had a $1400.00 cashiers check that he wanted her to sign over to him and he would send her the money at a later date. She appeared to be distraught and asked me to talk to the dealer. I did, only to be told that I could send the money via Western Union at any Wal-Mart or do a debit or credit by phone. He gave me an 800 number.
When I got to work, Diane called again and said the owner of the shop would have to close the shop after 10 am because he was having an inspection that would not allow customers to be on the lot.
The dealer got on the phone and then gave me a telephone number with a 404 area code, which I knew was an Atlanta, Georgia number.
When I questioned this, he stated that it was the corporate office. I went online and called several Firestone Dealers in Terre Haute and to see if there was a woman stranded with four children. They all responded "NO" and I asked if they took checks, they all responded "YES."
When I called the corporate number, the gentleman became belligerent and asked me why I thought someone would scam the church. I told him because there are just some people who don't have a fear of God.
So please let others know that there is someone portraying to be an AME Bishop to get the sympathy of pastor's with a heart of compassion and churches with a spirit of giving.
The Rev. La Juana J. Morris
Calvary A.M.E. Church
St. Louis, MO
Editor’s Note: At this point, any AME pastor who gets scammed probably deserves to be scammed because we have published warnings of this kind of scam in the print edition of The Christian Recorder and in the online edition of The Christian Recorder. Every pastor, and members of the AME Church, has the responsibility to keep updated and informed by subscribing to, and reading The Christian Recorder. Anyone who spends more than 45 seconds with this type of nonsense telephone call is wasting his or her time. Every AME has been warned.
7. FISK CHAPEL AME CHURCH, FAIR HAVEN, NEW JERSEY TO HOST YOUTH TRACK MEET:
The Fisk Chapel Trustee Board is hosting a major youth track meet for individuals and teams representing churches, track clubs and recreation programs. The Reverend Warren S. DeShields, Pastor.
The event will feature individual and team awards including outstanding athlete awards for each division and the induction of Hall of Fame members for outstanding former athletes, coaches, or administrators who are inspirational role models for our youth. The Hall of Fame induction will be held at 6:00 pm Friday July 14th at the Fisk Chapel AME Church in Fair Haven, NJ. The track meet will be held at the Count Basie Track on Saturday July 15th in Red Bank, NJ.
Running, throwing, and jumping events as well as relays will be contested for 8& under, 9&10, 11&12, 13&14, and 15-18 year old divisions. The entry fee is $15 / athlete. Registration can be submitted online at the church website www.fiskchapelame.org and applicants can mail in the fee. The entry fee is waived for any athletes who were first place winners in their High School All-State 2006 Outdoor Championship Meet (submit proof with application).
Team awards will be presented in each division. Overall team awards will be presented to the first, second and third place teams. Medals will be awarded to the first second and third place finishers in each division and ribbons to 4th, 5th, and 6th. Outstanding athlete awards will be presented to the top scoring boy and girl in each division. Scores are based on the 10, 8, 6, 4, 2, 1 point system for first thru sixth places. For purpose of outstanding athlete award, each individual will be awarded the same number of points scored by the relay team he/she ran on.
Details and updates will be posted on www.fiskchapelame.org . For additional information e-mail fiskchapelame@yahoo.com or call the meet director Jesse Y. Harris at 732-747-1752.
Please note that entries must be postmarked by Monday July 10th or received by Thursday July 13th.
The Reverend Warren S. DeShields, Pastor
Trustee Jesse Y. Harris,
Fisk Chapel Youth Meet Director
Phone: (732) 747-1752
E-Mail: fiskchapelame@yahoo.com
Website: www.fiskchapelame.org
8. LETTER TO THE EDITOR:
Dear Editor Sydnor,
As I was reading the March 13th Christian Recorder, I noticed on page 3 under "the AMEC a Global Church with a Global Witness," Western New York was not listed under the 1st Episcopal District/Bishop Richard Franklin Norris as one of his conferences. Bishop Norris had 7 conferences: Philadelphia, New Jersey, New York, New England, Delaware, Bermuda and Western New York. Please include our Western New York Conference in the next issue of the Christian Recorder.
We have been a conference for 10 years.
Thank you for your attention to this error.
God Bless.
Sister Lucretia Bowie, President
Western New York Conference Lay Organization
9. NEWS FROM AROUND THE AME CHURCH:
Fire destroyed a historic church, Mount Pisgah AME Church in Haddonfield, New Jersey. Authorities said roof workers accidentally started the fire with a torch. The church has been standing for 126 years, but flames needed only minutes to rip across the roof and leave most of the building charred.
10. SISTERS KEEPING THE COVENANT TO CONNECT SISTERS THROUGHOUT ATLANTIC COAST REGION:
By Rev. Maxine L. Thomas
There is an excitement in the air as women from throughout the East Coast Atlantic Region once again look forward to assembling at the now beautifully renovated Sheraton Dover Hotel, 1570 North Dupont Hwy in Dover, DE for an explosive Women’s Conference that will set the pace for a continued journey of healing and restoration for women as well as renewed fellowship and sisterhood. Women’s General Assembly 2006 “AND SHE SHALL BE BLESSED” presented by Sisters Keeping the Covenant with Ministry Leaders Rev. Maxine L. Thomas of Philadelphia, PA and Rev. Dr. Henrietta S. Fullard of Jamaica, NY is set for Friday, August 25 thru Saturday, August 26, 2006.
The Rev. Maxine L. Thomas, formerly a resident of Dover, where she and her husband Rev. Troy I. Thomas pastored Mt. Zion AME Church is the visionary and coordinator of the WGA 2006 and expresses her joy and enthusiasm in revisiting Dover with her Conference for women.
“We see them in church serving on the board and singing on the choir, actively involved in community service, playing the role of wife, mom, and Super Mom, in places of executive honor and demand, and still, many of these same women bear the scars of rape, domestic violence, and a need for inner healing,” Rev. Maxine Thomas said. Workshops will address topics that allow women to explore areas of hurt as well as pursue the purpose and plan of God for their life. “Regardless of whether one has scars from the past or is just seeking to know the Lord more intimately, it is going to be an experience that will bring women to a renewed sense of purpose, healing and wholeness. Indeed, God wants to bless His people,” she continued.
The Conference will begin on Friday evening (August 25th) with an East Coast Gospel Blast that will feature the dynamic music ministry in gospel song of Rev. Helen Walton of Bloomsfield, Connecticut who sings with a fervor that electrifies and liberates. She will be joined by the soul stirring Eastern Shore Mass Choir, the brilliantly anointed music ministry of internationally renowned saxophonist Tony Smith, and the healing dance ministry of the Daughters of Shabach of Reisterstown, MD. The evening message will be brought by Pastor Sherri Thompson of Orange, NJ, a former gang member who has turned her life over to Jesus and now pastors, sings, and ministers healing and deliverance as she travels nationally and internationally.
Saturday morning will begin with the Early Bird Catches the Word, with the Rev. Alberta Jones of Philadelphia, PA teaching from the topic, “I Heard from God and Came Out Hollering.” The day will unfold in numerous workshops including, “Simon Says Broke, But God Says Blessed,” “Get Out of My Faith (How to Handle Sooth Sayers and Nay Sayers), “Everything That Glitters Ain’t God,” “Stop Fronting and Get In God’s Face,” Fe, Fi, Fo, Fum, Watch Out Devil Here I Come,” and “Don’t hate Just Celebrate.” The culminating experience will be a dynamic dual sermon by Rev. Maxine L. Thomas, Executive Director and Rev. Dr. Henrietta Scott Fullard, Assistant Director as they close out with, “Heaven Just Fell on This House.”
Star Hill AME Church in Star Hill, DE and where the Rev. Rita Mishoe Paige is the pastor will serve as host for this magnificent event. Rev. Paige is also the East Coast Regional Director for Sisters Keeping the Covenant and will help oversee the Executive Planning Committee, comprised of many of the same ladies who worked with Rev. Maxine in presenting previous conferences.” “I am thankful to Rev. Paige and the members of Star Hill and the awesome members of the Committee,” Rev. Maxine said.
Prior to Rev. Thomas and her husband relocating to Philadelphia, Rev. Maxine presented three conferences for women at the Sheraton Dover Hotel. Each conference drew women from throughout the East Coast Atlantic region as nearly fourteen hundred women were blessed and filled by the experience. “I am excited, and many of the ladies who attended the previous conferences are looking forward to coming back to Dover for this event,” Rev. Maxine said. “There is something special about these conferences and each time we have one, God does what only He can do best… that is bless His people.”
The Conference for women will also feature shopping and pampering at “The Queen’s Court.” For more information, please call Rev. Maxine Thomas at 610-583-1175.
11. DOCTOR SAYS HEALTHY CLERGY NEEDED, ILLNESS NOT GOD'S WILL:
By Linda Green*
A United Methodist physician who believes the denomination's clergy are among the least-healthy professional groups in the United States is featured on a Web-log on Time magazine's global health update site.
Dr. Scott Morris, a physician, United Methodist pastor and executive director of the Church Health Center in Memphis, Tenn., said pastors and church members need to realize "that the least healthy meal you eat every week is usually at your church" when it should be the other way around.
"The church ought to lead the way, not bring up the rear. If the church has to serve fried chicken in order to draw a crowd, then there is something wrong with the message." Morris said.
Clergy health has declined to a point where attention is needed, Morris said. Fifty years ago, Methodist clergy were in the top five healthiest professions in America, and now they are in the bottom five least healthy. "We cannot have a healthy church if we don't have healthy leadership."
Noting that America has an obesity crisis, Morris said if an adjustment is made for age and gender, United Methodist clergy are 20 percent heavier than the general population. "That cannot be something that we are proud of; it has to be something that we do something about."
Anne Borish of the United Methodist Board of Pension and Health Benefits said the denomination is engaging in a health and wholeness emphasis because the role of complete health - body, mind, spirit - is an important part of the ability of both clergy and lay to serve the church.
Although both groups have different stress indicators, it is harder to be a role model and serve the church if you do not have complete health, said Borish, manager of research and information for the board.
In an interview with United Methodist News Service, Morris elaborated on the piece in the Time magazine blog, titled "Goes Does Not Want You to Be Sick" written by Christine Gorman at http://time.blogs.com/global_health/2006/06/scottmorris.html. She describes Morris' work with individuals who believe that sickness is a part of God's will and others who resist treatment because of the belief that God will take care of them.
Morris said American churches today have forgotten that healing was an important part of Jesus' ministry and the ministry of the disciples. Every church needs to have a health care ministry as it has a choir and Sunday school, he said.
The Book of Acts records 19 instances of healing by the Apostles, and churches have an obligation to have a healing ministry, he said. "If a church ignores having a healing ministry, then it is really not following through with the gospel." He said each time the disciples came together, they were expected to preach, teach and heal.
Reclaiming a ministry
The Church Health Center was founded in 1987 to "reclaim the church's biblical and historical commitment to care for our bodies as well as our spirits," Morris said.
"What we do is take care of the poor and uninsured. Our mission is all about the church and trying to get the church reconnected with what John Wesley wanted us to be connected with," a call to discipleship and healing, Morris said. The founder of Methodism called himself a physician, practiced medicine, and believed that every Methodist society should be involved in direct, hands-on health care.
The center, which also contains a clinic and a wellness center, provides low-income people with health care and encourages healthy living through a holistic ministry called the Hope Healing Center. The center receives support from the faith community and volunteer help from doctors, nurses, dentists and others. It also works with churches, especially African-American congregations, to help them create health care ministries.
"We are the largest faith-based primary care clinic in the country," said Morris, who is also associate pastor at St. John's United Methodist Church, Memphis. For every dollar spent on treatment, a dollar is spent on prevention, he said, but the center is not a free clinic.
In the blog, Gorman notes that fatalism is an important issue in Morris' practice. Morris told United Methodist News Service that all too often he and other doctors at the health center see patients who think illness is God's will.
"I spend a lot of time trying to convince people that it is not (God's) will," he says. "God wants us to be healthy and to live long and vital lives."
As long as the "as long as I got King Jesus, everything is OK" mentality exists, Morris said, there are going to be problems in taking care of people. Churches, he said, need to be involved in health care domestically and globally and "in taking care of the body wherever they are."
Resolutions on health
The United Methodist Church's General Conference has passed a number of health-related resolutions on the importance of health care for all and on some of the issues that keep people from realizing this principle. A health and wholeness committee is working to build awareness, action and advocacy for the health-related ministries across the denomination. Emphasis is on clergy wellness, malaria education, AIDS orphans and health care access.
Health care in the United States faces three interrelated problems: cost, access and quality, states the United Methodist Board of Church and Society on its Web site. Because of deficiencies in the current system, Americans as a whole receive poorer health care than people in other industrial countries that spend only half as much.
The most visible problem is that of 46 million Americans who have no health insurance, the board said.
The United Methodist Book of Resolutions says the denomination believes its mission is to continue the redemptive ministry of Christ, including teaching, preaching and healing. Christ's healing was not peripheral but central in his ministry. The church, therefore, understands itself as called by the Lord to the holistic ministry of healing: spiritual, mental, emotional and physical.
Among the eight action items that United Methodists are called to in a ministry of health and wholeness, the church is challenged "to become advocates for a healthful environment; accessible, affordable health care; continued public support for health care of persons unable to provide for themselves; continued support for health-related research; and provision of church facilities to enable health-related ministries."
Morris said Christians have difficulty connecting the mind, body and spirit.
*Green is a United Methodist News Service news writer based in Nashville, Tenn.
Used with permission of the United Methodist News Service, Nashville, Tennessee
13. REQUEST FOR ASSISTANCE IN SURVEY OF AFRICAN AMERICAN CLERGY:
This message was forwarded by the Reverend Dr. Joe Darby.
I am a doctoral student in the department of Counselor Education at the University of Florida.
I am writing to invite you to participate in a study on African American Clergy who provide premarital counseling that I am conducting for my dissertation. My study aims to explore the attitudes, beliefs, preparation, and practices of African American Clergy in premarital counseling. I am contacting several African American Clergy to ask them to take a brief survey.
The results from the survey will promote understanding of the attitudes, beliefs, preparation and practices of African American Clergy in premarital counseling. The answers to the survey will be anonymous, and participation in this survey is voluntary. There is neither compensation nor perceived risks for involvement in this study. The survey should take approximately 10 to 15 minutes to complete.
I am writing to ask your support. I am trying to reach as many African American Clergy from various areas in the country. I am requesting your support as a person who could assist me in recruiting Clergy for the survey. You can do this by taking the survey and forwarding this message to other pastors as well. Here is a link to the survey:
http://www.surveymonkey.com/s.asp?u=412601914827 .
If you have any further questions about this study, please contact me at adrianma@ufl.edu or at (352) 373-0329 or my faculty supervisor, Dr. Peter Sherrard at (352) 392-0731 or psherrard@coe.ufl.edu .
I feel that this study will be a blessing for African American Clergy and the families they serve. Thank you very much for participating in this important study.
Sincerely, PhD Candidate Adrian Manley
University of Florida
14. THE PASTOR’S CORNER -WHAT HAPPENS WHEN WE PRAY?:
So I say to you: Ask and it will be given to you; seek and your will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; he who seeks finds; and to him who knocks, the door will be opened. (Luke 11: 9-10)
In Luke 11: 1-13 Jesus gives us a description of prayer. Jesus’ parable describes a conversation between two men. Every conversation, no matter how insignificant it may seem has purpose. Often, when I greet Earl, one of the leaders of Quinn Chapel, I proclaim, “Earl the Pearl! How ya’ doin’?” His reply is, “I’m doin’ great! It’s so good that it’s almost like havin’ good sense. But I know that ain’t it, so it must be the Lord!” As trite as that exchange may seem, it has purpose and produces outcomes. This kind of conversation allows me to acknowledge the presence of a church leader as he acknowledges God’s benefits and blessings in his life. Prayer is conversation with God. As with any conversation, prayer has purpose and produces outcomes. When we pray, we team with God to put in motion a number of benefits that we experience as believers.
Luke 11: 1-11 – What is Prayer?
Prayer is talking with God. It is a conversation, an exchange, or communication that builds relationship between God and the believer. Jesus describes prayer as asking, seeking, and knocking. Earnest, sincere prayer brings us into the presence of God.
Seek – To seek is to search for something we need or desire in a setting in which we expect to find it. When the man in Luke 11: 5 went to his friend, he was acknowledging his friend was a source of what he needed. A few weeks ago, following praise dance practice, the girls were thirsty and went to the water fountain only to find it out of order. I soon found the doorway of my office crowded by a group of teens in search of cold water. I jokingly asked them why they came to my office looking for water. In a tidal wave of laughter and voices, they reminded me that they knew I had a refrigerator in the side room to my office that was filled with bottles of cold water. That’s what Jesus means by “seek.” When I’m looking for my shoes I don’t look in the spice rack in the kitchen. When we’re hungry we don’t go to the hardware store. When we need our clothes cleaned we don’t go to an auto mechanic. He is directing us to go to the Source that can meet all our needs. Make the “Creator of the heavens, the earth, the sea, and all that in them is,” our first resort. “You need it? God’s got it!” Start your search with Him.
Knock – The man in Luke 11: 5 went to his friend at midnight. Later in the conversation (v. 7) the friend stated, “The door is already locked and my children are with me in bed.” He now had to get the attention of his friend to gain access to what he needed. The customary way of getting the attention of someone behind a closed door is to knock at the door. If the person doesn’t answer you immediately and you know the person is present and has what you need, what does one do? One knocks harder, longer and louder.
When the blind man known as Bartimaeus heard Jesus of Nazareth was passing by, he called out, “O thou Son of David, have mercy on me. When Jesus didn’t hear him and those in the crowd told him to be quiet, he shouted even louder (Luke 18: 35-42).
When the teens came to my door, just their presence at my door seeking began to get my attention. Then they took the next step toward gaining access to what they needed. They acknowledged openly that I had what they were searching for. That really got my attention. “We know you have a refrigerator full of bottles of cold water!” There’s a lesson in getting God’s attention when we pray. Acknowledge Who He is. Remind yourself that He is the source of all you need. Let God know that you know He already has everything you need. If you encounter resistance, don’t quit calling on God until you get into His presence. Praise God. Your praise ushers you into the presence of God. Break through whatever may be blocking you. It’s most often something within ourselves that our praise brings into subjection to Almighty God.
Ask – To ask is to make our petitions/requests known to the Source of all we need. In the story of Luke chapter 11: 1-13, the King James Version of the Bible uses the word “importunity” in verse 8; the New International Version of the Word uses the word “boldness.” What Jesus is instructing us to do is to approach the Father with humble boldness or importunity. I know, humble boldness sounds like a contradiction.
Ruth, the head trustee of Quinn Chapel, is a person whom I’ve recognized most effectively demonstrates importunity (humble boldness) in asking for things. If the church is in need of something, Ruth will ask! A phrase that would best describe her is “Ain’t no shame in my game.” My initial impression was that I couldn’t be so bold to ask as she did. Nothing could be further from the truth. My dilemma was I couldn’t be so humble to ask as she did. It wasn’t until later I began to recognize how truly humble she is. When making request of God, most of us get the “bold” but many of us miss the “humble.” Our humility is demonstrated when we acknowledge that we are unable to do for ourselves what is needed and only God can provide. We’re also humble when we are willing to give up our right to our own way and ourselves and ask according to God’s will and not our own. Now that takes boldness. We’re shamelessly admitting to ourselves and to God our need for His intervention into our circumstances.
What about you? Have you come to the place of humble boldness in asking God for what you need? Have you ever asked God to forgive you of sin in your life? Have you ever asked God to make you the person He created you to be? What happens when we pray? “Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you.”
The Reverend James Moody
Quinn Chapel, Chicago
15. PASTOR MICHAEL BARTA THANKS THOSE WHO PRAYED:
Pastor Michael and First Lady Linda Barta would like to thank God, Bishop John R. Bryant, Presiding Elder La Grant & Sis. Carolyn Moore, the Southern California Conference of the AME Church, Orange County Ministers Conference, all the members of Johnson Chapel A.M.E. Church and friends; for the many expressions of love and kindness during Pastor Barta’s illness.
As of this printing, he has been hospitalized at Orange Coast Memorial Hospital, Fountain Valley with pneumonia. His status is stable and he is having no ill effects from his recent stroke. However, due to the pneumonia, he is suffering from exhaustion and difficulty in his air flow (breathing). Therefore, rest is critical.
The Bartas' thank you for your prayers and well wishes. They will acknowledge your acts of kindness personally at a later date. Your attentiveness to their needs has been very heartwarming. May God continue to bless each and every one of you!
Inquiries about his health may be received at the church office (714) 972-8983
Rev. Mercedes Tudy-Hamilton
Pastoral Intern - Johnson Chapel AME Church
16. CLERGY FAMILY CONGRATULATORY NOTICES:
- Felecia Commodore graduated on Saturday, June 17th, 2006 from Drexel University in Philadelphia, PA. She will be receiving her B.A. in Business Administration-Marketing, with a minor in Sociology. After graduation she will be working for Trinity University in Washington, D.C. as an admissions recruiter. Felecia serves as 2nd VP of the Second Episcopal District YPD. She is the daughter of the Rev. Bedelia Commodore and Frank Commodore, Jr. and the granddaughter of the Rev. Dr. Ellsworth Coleman, Sr. and Queenie Coleman. The Rev. Bedelia Commodore is the pastor of Boardly Chapel AME Church in Pondtown, MD. The Rev. Dr. Ellsworth Coleman, Sr. is a retired pastor in the Delaware Conference of the First Episcopal District.
Congratulatory email can be sent to: muslover@hotmail.com or fec22@drexel.edu
- The Rev. Dr. Henry Green, Connectional President of the Sons of Allen received the Honorary Doctorate of Divinity from Jackson Theological Seminary. Congratulatory messages can be sent to:
The Rev. Dr. Henry M. Green, Jr.,
President Connectional Sons of Allen
15620 W. Bunche Park Drive
Opa Locka, FL 33054
- Dr. Derek Anderson, Connectional President of the Richard Allen Young Adult Council and Trustee of the AME Church Inc. received the Honorary Doctorate of Humane Letters from Shorter College.
Congratulatory messages can be sent to:
Dr. Derek Anderson, President
Richard Allen Young Adult Council (RAYAC)
3623 Royal Cresent
Columbus, OH 43219
17. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
The passing of Mrs. Alma Davis, widow of the late Reverend Sam Davis and the mother of Bishop James Levert Davis, Presiding Bishop of the Nineteenth Episcopal District African Methodist Episcopal Church.
Service arrangements for Mrs. Alma Davis:
Visitation:
Thursday, June 22, 2006
7:00 PM
Smith & Gaston Funeral Home
102 6th Avenue SW
Birmingham, AL
(205) 322-3581 Phone
(205) 322-4868 Fax:
Funeral:Friday, June 23, 2006
11:00 AM
St. Paul AME Church
300 4th Court
NorthBirmingham (Smithfield), AL
Interment
Elmwood Cemetery
In lieu of flowers, contributions should be made to St. Paul AME Church.
Expressions of sympathy may be sent to:
Bishop and Mrs. James Levert Davis
Nineteenth Episcopal District
461 Wynn's Way, SW
Atlanta, GA 30301
(404) 696-5939 (Phone)
(404) 696-8732 (Fax)
Email: jld19thbishop@telkomsa.net Or bishopdavis@19ame.com
Please remember the Davis family in your prayers.
18. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
From: 11thdistoffice@bellsouth.net
With sadness we inform you of the sudden passing of the Reverend Kenneth White, retired pastor, presiding elder, World War II Chaplain, and beloved member of the Eleventh Episcopal District.
Service arrangements for the Reverend Kenneth White
Viewing:
Monday, June 19, 2006,
6:00 pm-7:30 pm
Historic Mount Zion
201 East Beaver Street
Jacksonville, FL 32202
Tel: (904) 355-9475
Victory Service:
Monday, June 19, 2006,
7:30 pm-9:00 pm
Historic Mount Zion
201 East Beaver Street
Jacksonville, FL 32202
Tel: (904) 355-9475
Funeral Service:
Tuesday, June 20, 2006, 11:00 am
Historic Mount Zion
201 East Beaver Street
Jacksonville, FL 32202
Tel: (904) 355-9475
Bishop McKinley Young will be the eulogist.
19. UPDATED FUNERAL ARRANGEMENTS FOR REV. KENNETH WHITE, CHAPLAIN (CPT) US ARMY-RETIRED, FORMER PASTOR AND PRESIDING ELDER:
Friday, June 23, 2006
The Homegoing Services for Rev. Kenneth White will be held at
Brown Memorial A.M.E. Church
130 14th St., N.E.
Washington, D.C. 20002
The Rev. Dr. Henry Y. White, Pastor
The Viewing will be on Friday, June 23, 2006, from 9:00 am-11:00 am and the Funeral Service will begin promptly at 11:00 am. Bishop Adam J. Richardson will be the eulogist.
The interment will take place at Cedar Hill cemetery, located in Suitland, Md.
Please Contact Watson Funeral Home for any further information.
Watson Funeral Home
3435 14th St., N.W.
Washington, D.C. 20010
The Wake for Rev Kenneth White will be held on Monday, June 19, 2006 from 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. at Historic Mt. Zion AME Church in Jacksonville, Florida. The funeral will be held on Tuesday, June 20, 2006 at 11:00 a.m. at St. Stephen A.M.E. Church, Jacksonville, Fl., the Rev. Michael Mitchell Pastor.
The address of Historic Mt. Zion AME is:
Historic Mt. Zion AME Church
201 E. Beaver St.
Jacksonville, FL 32202
(904) 355-9475
The address of St. Stephen AME is:
St. Stephen AME Church
913 W. 5th St. Jacksonville, FL 32209
(904) 358-2399
Professional Services are being handled by
Leo C. Chase
262 West King St
St. Augustine, FL 32084
Tel: (904) 824-2865
Condolences may be sent to:
Historic Mount Zion
C/O The Reverend F. D. Richardson
201 East Beaver StreetJacksonville, FL 32202
Tel: (904) 355-9475
Fax: (904) 353-8330
Email: hmzamec@netzero.net
20. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
Homegoing Service of Benjamin Engelbrecht, the father in law of the Rev. Keith Links and the father of Mrs. Karmen Links, Cape Annual Conference, 15th Episcopal District.
Arrangements:
Saturday, June 17, 2006 at home
09h00
10b Gunning Street
Scottsville, Kraaifontein
At Church 10h00
Gow Chapel A. M. E. Church
8th Avenue
Kraaifontein
Phone: 011+27 21 988 7703
Burial at Kraaifontein Cemetery.
Condolences may be sent to: linksklb@telkomsa.net
21. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
From: Evelyn H. Markey, Office Manager 8th Episcopal District - A.M.E. Church
The passing of Mr. Burnett Hurd, the father of the Reverend Cynthia Harris, pastor of St. Mary A.M.E. Church, Shreveport, LA.
Service arrangements for Mr. Burnett Hurd:
Family Hour, Thursday, June 22, 2006
7:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
J. S. Williams and Son Funeral Home
1104 Pierre Avenue
Shreveport, LA
(318) 221-6169 Phone
(318) 221-6147 Fax
Funeral
Friday, June 23, 2006
1:00 p.m.
St. Mary A.M.E. Church
1603 Rex Street
Shreveport, LA.
(318) 222-3997.
Expressions of sympathy may be sent to:
The Reverend Cynthia Harris
4855 Airline Drive, #34-A
Bossier City, LA 71111
(318) 746-1442 or (601) 209-5277
Email: CynthiaHar@aol.com
Please remember the family in your prayers.
22. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
From: norwedac@yahoo.com
Dear Connectional Family,
It is with the deepest sympathy that I report that Mrs. Alma Alex, the mother of Mrs. Amanda Johnson, the wife of the Rev. Willie B. Johnson, pastor of Allen Chapel A.M.E. Church, Monroe, Louisiana, went home to be with the Lord.
Service Arrangements
Family Visitation:
Friday, June 23, 2006
7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Mt. Calvary Baptist Church
612 North 3rd Street
Orange, Texas
Mrs. Alex's life will be celebrated Saturday, June 24, 2006
11:00 a.m.
Mt. Calvary Baptist Church
612 North 3rd Street
Orange, Texas
Church Phone: (409) 883-8317
Professional services are entrusted to:
Sparrow Funeral Home
1107 6th Street
Orange Texas 77630
(409) 883-2847 (Phone)
(409) 883-4221 (Fax)
Condolences may be sent to:
Mrs. Amanda Johnson
6722 Santa Monica
Shreveport, LA 71119
Email: 104Psalms@bellsouth.net
Mrs. Johnson may be reached by phone this week at (409) 883-9285 prior to the funeral.
Please pray that God will comfort the family.
Sincerely,
Norweda Carter
8th MSWAWO President
23. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT ANNOUNCEMENTS PROVIDED BY:
Bishop Carolyn Tyler Guidry, Chair
Commission on Social Action Clergy Family Information Center
Ora L. EasleyEmail: Amespouses1@aol.com
Phone: (615) 837-9736
Fax: (615) 833-3781
Voice Mail: (615) 833-6936
Cell: (615) 403-7751
24. CONDOLENCES TO THE BEREAVED FROM THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER:
The Chair of the Commission on Publications, the Right Reverend Gregory G. M. Ingram; the Publisher, the Reverend Dr. Johnny Barbour and the Editor of the Christian Recorder, the Reverend Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III offer our condolences and prayers to those who have lost loved ones. We pray that the peace of Christ will be with you during this time of your bereavement.
Archive of The Christian Recorder Online from 2004-2016; Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III, 20th Editor of The Christian Recorder
