Bishop Gregory G. M. Ingram - Chair, Commission on Publications
The Reverend Dr. Johnny Barbour, Jr., Publisher
The Reverend Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III, Editor
1. THE WOMEN’S’ MISSIONARY SOCIETY ANNOUNCES A SPECIAL WORKSHOP THAT WILL BE HELD AT THE 2006 WMS EXECUTIVE BOARD MEETING:
The Isis Project- A National Program Of The Balm In Gilead, Inc.
Sponsored by The Commission on Christian Social Action
Who should attend: Persons who are interested in starting or enhancing a Health Care Ministry in the local church! (Space is limited to 100 persons)
When: Friday, January 27, 2006 from 2 - 4 pm
The Presenters
Lucille C. Norville Perez, M.D.
Dr. Perez is the National Health Director, Health Advocacy Division of the NAACP. In August 2001, Dr. Perez was elected as the 102nd president of the National Medical Association (NMA), the nation's oldest and largest professional scientific organization representing the country's 37,000 African American physicians. Previously, Dr. Perez served as the Associate Director of the Center for Substance Abuse and Prevention (SAMHSA/DHHS). A widely sought after lecturer, Dr. Perez's has received numerous honors, including a Congressional Black Caucus Special Achievement Award and a Distinguished Service Award from the Secretary of Health and Human Services.
The Reverend Dr. Susan Newman
The Reverend Dr. Susan Newman is Minister of Peoples Congregational United Church of Christ, Washington, D. C. and serves the District Government as the Special Assistant to the Mayor for Religious Affairs. She is an inspirational, motivational, and humorous speaker whose soul stirring, thought-provoking insights on healthy relationships from a spiritual perspective are garnering nationwide attention and acclaim. Hailed by Ebony Magazine as one of the Top Black Women Preachers in America, Dr. Newman has moved audiences throughout the United States, Switzerland and Ghana to hallelujahs and social action.
Her book, Oh God! A Black Woman’s Guide to Sex and Spirituality (Random House, 2002) proposes a new sexual ethic for women of faith. This groundbreaking book has been hailed by spiritual, academic, and community leaders and has brought a new blueprint for sexual and spiritual health and balance to millions of women and men. Her latest book, Your Inner Eve, brings the power of truth, warmth of wit and humor, and the essence of heart and soul to light in a way that will help every woman rediscover and reaffirm the Divine with herself.
Tamika Felder
Tamika Felder is a cervical cancer survivor and activist. At the age of 25, Tamika was diagnosed with advanced cervical cancer and underwent a radical hysterectomy. In January 2005, Tamika created Tamika and Friends, a nonprofit organization designed to raise awareness about cervical cancer and its link to the human papillomavirus. She travels the country on her mission of HPV and cervical cancer awareness and is currently producing an awareness campaign that includes a documentary film, public service announcements, and town hall forums - all funded from her own efforts. Tamika's story was featured in the June 2003 issue of Essence Magazine. In January 2004, Tamika partnered with the National Council of Negro Women to register over 100 women to get their annual pap test along with HPV testing for Cervical Cancer Awareness month. She has participated in numerous initiatives, including serving as Community representative for the President's Cancer Panel (September 2003) and acting as a survivor spokesperson for the Lance Armstrong Foundation.
2. THE CONNECTIONAL HEALTH COMMISSION WANTS YOU TO SAVE THIS DATE! - JUNE 23 – 27, 2006:
The Connectional Health Commission 2nd Leadership Training will be held June 23-27, 2006 at the Embassy Suites in Charleston, South Carolina.
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All Health Directors on all levels and Connectional groups, prevention specialists and interested persons are invited to attend.
Put it on your calendars now!
Submitted By Sister Gwendolyn Williams
3. LIKE MANY OF YOU, I HAVE BEEN BLESSED WITH GREAT PASTORS AND MENTORS:
I want to thank God for the great pastors and presiding elders who were mentors to me. They all were inspirational and impacted upon me as a person and upon my ministry.
Bishop Frederick D, Jordan, gave me my first pastoral appointment and mentor
The Rev. T. S. Clements, my first model for ministry (pre-teen, teen and adult)
The Rev. A. Earl Jordon, planted the seed for ministry
The Rev. Jesse F. Owens, my father in the ministry
The Reverend D. M. Owens, Presiding Elder who licensed me
The Rev. B. C. Burton, pastored me through the ordination process
The Rev. C. E. Blake, my father-in-law, friend, and mentor for ministry
The Rev. Charles D. Brice, my friend in ministry
The Reverend J. Pater Ashworth, model for ministry
The Reverend H. Ralph Jackson, mentor and encourager for my ministry
The Reverend H. L Starks, mentor and encourager for ministry
The Reverend Willie K. Marshall, my first Presiding Elder as a pastor
The Reverend Gaddy, Presiding Elder
The Rev. Howard S. Clark, mentor and supporter
The Reverend W. W. Reid, preaching mentor and modeled friendship.
The Reverend J. E. Newell, Presiding Elder during my early years
The Reverend Roscoe Pierson, Lexington Theological Seminary
And, a host of others, too numerous to mention. This list started with my pastors, but the other names just surfaced in my mind. I thank God for how they influenced my life
Editor’s note: Send a list of your mentors to The Christian Recorder: chsydnor@bellsouth.net
4. SHARE YOUR EXPERIENCES ABOUT THE MOURNERS OR MOANERS’ BENCH:
This message is for our older readers as I am certain that our younger readers will not know anything about the “moaners’ bench,” or is it “mourners’ bench.”
If anyone can remember your experiences, please share them with The Christian Recorder. Was it called a "moaner's bench" or a "mourner's bench".
It would be Interesting to learn what happened in various churches. Please be sure to give the city (town) and state where your experience happened.
5. DR. DENNIS DICKERSON, HISTORIOGRAPHER AND EDITOR OF THE A.M.E. CHURCH REVIEW TO BE THE MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR. OBSERVANCE SPEAKER AT THE SCARRITT-BENNETT CENTER:
The Scarritt-Bennett Center will host its Annual Soul Food Luncheon Buffet featuring Southern-Style Comfort Foods.
The service celebrating the contributions of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. will be in the Wightman Chapel on January 18, 2006 at 10-11 AM
The speaker will be featuring Dr. Dennis Dickerson, an ordained minister and General Officer in the African Methodist Episcopal Church and Professor of History at Vanderbilt University.
The Belmont School of Music Chamber Choir and Belmont United Methodist organist Gayle Sullivan will provide music. Co-sponsored by the Upper Room and the General Board of Discipleship, this event is free and open to the public.
A Soul Food Luncheon will be served immediately following the service in the Susie Gray Dining Hall. The cost for the meal will be $12 per person; call 615.340.7500 for reservations.
6. ST. MARK A.M.E. CHURCH, MILWAUKEE TO CELEBRATE THE LIFE AND WORKS OF DR. MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR.:
Milwaukee, Wisconsin. On Sunday, January 15, 2006, St. Mark AME Church celebrates the life and works of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. by recognizing the contributions of local community supporters, Lucinda Gordon and Dr. Ruben K. Harpole.
The Dr. King celebration will take place during the 11:00 a.m. worship service. The guest speaker is Rev. Walter Reid, retired AME pastor of Trinity AME Church, Lansing, Michigan. The public is invited to come and join in the celebration and remembrance of Dr. King.
St. Mark AME Church is located at 1616 W. Atkinson Avenue. For more information, please contact Roy C. Hill, at (414) 562-8030. The Reverend Darryl R. Williams is the Pastor.
7. SEVENTH EPISCOPAL DISTRICT’S SONS OF ALLEN SPONSOR COLLEGE SUPPORT BANQUET:
Former NFL Player and Educator addresses African-American Christian Men’s Group
Under the auspices of The Right Reverend Preston Warren Williams, II, the Presiding Prelate of the Seventh District of the African Methodist Episcopal Church, the Mt. Olive AME Church’s Men’s Missionary Group, the Sons of Allen, sponsored its Third Annual College Support Banquet. According to John Abraham, President of the group, “This year’s banquet was one of our best yet.” The keynote speaker was Mr. Ronnie Burgess, who has the distinction of having played in the National Football League. Also, an accomplished life long educator, Mr. Burgess previously served as Principal of Myrtle Beach High School and currently serves as Principal of Saint James High School for the Horry County School District.
Mr. Burgess spoke concerning the high level of values required of our young men and women in today’s society and particularly addressed the need for African-American men to make a concerted effort to ensure equality in our educational system. He stated that, “Equality begins and ends with learning.” He also commented that if our young people are effectively to compete in today’s society we must set high standards and maintain a strong and steady pace in leading and directing our youth.
Mr. Burgess encouraged all of the young people at the banquet to establish a clear career plan and work hard towards making that plan a reality. He wisely advised them to create a best-case scenario “plan A” as well as an alternate plan in the event that things do not work out. On a personal note, Mr. Burgess shared that he was in the midst of a very promising NFL career when an injury forced his early retirement. Because he had a secondary plan, he was able to shift gears and move on with his life. All who were present found Mr. Burgess’s presentation enlightening and inspiring.
In 2006, the Mt. Olive Sons of Allen plan to sponsor several events including a "Boys to Men" rap sessions for local church and community youth, a community outreach initiative and The Second Annual Summer Golf Tournament.
The Reverend Roger L. Washington, Presiding Pastor of Mt. Olive AME Church, stated that, “This Third Annual College Support Banquet holds special significance because our African-American men, in spite of being profiled, marginalized, criticized and stereotyped by the larger society, must continue to step up in building a better tomorrow. African-American men and women are too often portrayed in less then favorable terms by the local and national media. In recognizing these and other challenges, it is significant that we take note of the Sons of Allen’s commitment towards supporting our young men and women as they strive to obtain higher education.”
The Annual College Support Banquet ensures that children who are in need can turn to a support system specifically designed to help them. There is additional Sons of Allen support in collaboration with the South Carolina Department of Juvenile Justice aimed towards mentoring at-risk youth.
This is a personal invitation to all churches, pastors, preachers, youth ministers, community leaders and members to take a stand and share this information with the members of your churches and community as we encourage and support our youth.
Together we can make a difference.
Persons interested in supporting the Sons of Allen College Support Banquet may call 843.448.5541 or mail financial contribution to Sons of Allen, 1108 Carver Street, Myrtle Beach, SC, 29577.
Written by:
Bennie J. Swans, Jr. & Benjamin Harrison
Submitted by:
Benjamin Harrison
Public Relations Director
7th District AME Church
Tel 803.935.0500
Fax 803.935.0830
HarrisonAMEMedia@aol.com
8. AMERICAN CANCER SOCIETY HELPS UNTANGLE THE WEB OF CANCER INFORMATION ONLINE:
Source: American Cancer Society February 2005
For the more than 1.3 million people expected to be diagnosed with cancer this year, the Internet will be a key resource for finding critical information about their disease. Many of these online users will start by typing the keyword “cancer” into a standard search engine only to pull up hundreds of thousands of sites about cancer. Where do they go from here?
The American Cancer Society encourages Internet users to rely on Web sites from credible organizations to ensure that they are getting the most up-to-date and accurate information. The Society considers its Web site, www.cancer.org, an important extension of the Society’s mission to provide lifesaving information to the public. The site has been recently expanded to include an interactive online cancer resource center, containing in-depth information on every major cancer type. Also through the resource center, visitors can order American Cancer Society free publications, gain access to recent news articles, and find additional on- and off-line resources relating to the specified cancer type.
The cancer information on the Society’s Web site is written and reviewed by a team of health and medical professionals. A literary professional translates medical terminology into lay language to ensure that the information can be easily understood. Information is reviewed and updated at least once a year, or immediately if a major development occurs.
Visitors to www.cancer.org can also access the American Cancer Society’s Cancer Survivors Network (CSN), which offers a variety of opportunities to learn about cancer and interact with others who have experienced cancer. CSN users can read discussions from people with similar cancer backgrounds and can participate in online conversations to share experiences. The site also offers users the ability to build their own Web page or search books, articles, Web sites and support groups.
The American Cancer Society’s Web site is made possible in part by support from donations to Relay for Life in your community. For more information, visit www.cancer.org.
§ Looking for cancer resources on the Web? The American Cancer Society’s Web site, www.cancer.org, is loaded with information about cancer. But, the site also offers much more. Check it out at www.cancer.org.
§ Hearing the words “You have cancer” can be frightening. But, there is no need to make the journey alone. The American Cancer Society provides numerous resources and programs to assist those with cancer. Call 1-800-ACS-2345 or visit www.cancer.org to contact someone who understands.
§ The National Cancer Information Center puts a wealth of cancer information at your fingertips. Specially-trained Cancer Information Specialists can answer your questions whether you are a cancer patient, cancer survivor, a loved one of someone with cancer or just curious about the disease. Call 1-800-ACS-2345 any time day or night to learn how our Cancer Information Specialists can help.
§ The amount of health information on the Internet can be overwhelming. Thankfully, the American Cancer Society makes finding useful cancer information easy. When you visit www.cancer.org you will find the most reliable, up-to-date cancer information available. Visit www.cancer.org to learn how your American Cancer Society can help you or someone you love.
§ The American Cancer Society knows the value of reliable information. That is why we strive to provide the latest cancer facts to anyone who needs them. Call 1-800-ACS-2345 or log on to www.cancer.org anytime, day or night. Knowing the facts about cancer could save your life and the lives of those you love.
9. WORLD COUNCIL OF CHURCHES: “POLITICIANS NEED CLEAR ETHICS GUIDELINES”:
New York, January 4, 2006 -- Lobbyist Jack Abramoff's decision to cooperate with federal investigators in what is being called Washington's biggest ethics scandal in recent memory has sent tremors throughout the capital.
None of this is surprising, said the General Secretary of the National Council of Churches USA, but it could have been avoided if Congress had adopted "a universally accepted and enforceable code of ethics."
The Rev. Dr. Bob Edgar called on religious leaders -- including those on the religious right -- to demand Congress to begin working on those ethical guidelines now.
Edgar called on Dr. James Dobson to join in such a call Sunday night (Jan. 8) when he addresses millions of his followers on the Justice Sunday III broadcast.
"As a Christian minister and a former member of Congress," Edgar said, "I am convinced that a universally accepted and enforceable code of ethics -- not just promises and empty words -- is the best assurance that we the people will be honestly served, and that politicians will be led away from the moral pitfalls of unchecked temptation."
Edgar made it clear that religious leaders are not calling for a code of ethics out of a sense of moral superiority.
"Our ancient scriptures make it clear that sin is a basic flaw in the human character, correctable only by humble obedience to God and adherence to God's law. The New Testament makes it clear that 'all have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God.'"
"In these treacherous times," Edgar said, "the sinful have included politicians, industrialists, judges, attorneys, and, yes, ever servants of the church. As dismayed as we are by the behavior of politicians who flocked to Jack Abramoff's bountiful trough, church persons know we are not qualified to cast the first stone against them."
But, religious leaders do call for "a strict and comprehensive set of ethical guidelines that can be agreed to by politicians, government officials and public servants of both parties at every level of government.
The full text of Edgar's statement follows:
Jack Abramoff's admission in federal court Tuesday that he is guilty of conspiracy, tax evasion and mail fraud may be creating tremors among Washington officials -- Democrat and Republican -- with whom he has been entangled. But, it comes as no surprise to people of faith.
Our ancient scriptures make it clear that sin is a basic flaw in the human character, correctable only by humble obedience to God and adherence to God’s law. The New Testament makes it clear that "all have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God." In these treacherous times, the sinful have included politicians, industrialists, judges, attorneys, and, yes, even servants of the church. As dismayed as we are by the behavior of politicians who flocked to Jack Abramoff's bountiful trough, church persons know we are not qualified to cast the first stone against them.
What we do call for, however, is a strict and comprehensive set of ethical guidelines that can be agreed to by politicians, government officials and public servants of both parties at every level of government. As a Christian minister and a former member of Congress, I am convinced that a universally accepted and enforceable code of ethics -- not promises and empty words -- is the best assurance that we the people will be honestly served, and that those politicians will be led away from the moral pitfalls of unchecked temptation.
The scandal now developing in Washington calls for a bipartisan commitment to reform. Whatever is done must transcend party and transcend ideological points of view. I call on all religious leaders to join together to insist that Congress must undertake the immediate drafting and implementation of bold, comprehensive and cleansing ethics guidelines.
I call on my friend, Dr. James Dobson, to take advantage of his platform this Sunday, when he addresses millions of faithful persons during Justice Sunday III to join with us in publicly demanding that Congress take this step toward ethical reform.
One of the reasons such egregious scandals by our elected officials are possible is that politics and greed have conspired to prevent the formation of ethical guidelines. Common Cause, a non-partisan public advocacy group, has advocated ethics reform legislation that would slow the revolving door between Congress and the lobbying industry, strengthen lobbying disclosure requirements, and curb the excesses in privately funded trips and gifts for Members of Congress and their staffs. There may other proposals worth looking at, but this would be a good place to begin.
The Abramoff Scandal in Washington is a clear signal that the time to begin is now. With the Prophet Amos we pray: "Let justice roll down like waters, and righteousness like an ever-flowing stream." [Amos 5:24 NRSV]
_____
The National Council of Churches USA is composed of 35 Protestant, Anglican, Orthodox, historic African American and peace communions representing 45 million Christians in 100,000 local congregations in the United States.
Contact NCC News: Philip E. Jenks, 212-870-2252, pjenks@ncccusa.org; or Leslie Tune, 202-544-2350, ltune@ncccusa.org
10. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
It is with deep regret that we announce the passing of the Aunt of the Rt. Rev. Wilfred Jacobus Messiah and the Reverend Paul Joseph Messiah.
Mrs. Elizabeth Cele departed this life on the December 31, 2005. She was the sister of the late Presiding Elder Paul Johannes Messiah.
Funeral Services will be held on Sunday, January 8th at 2:00 P.M. at St. Peter's A.M.E. Church, Kylemore, Stellenbosch.
Condolences can be sent to:
wjmessiah2004@yahoo.com
Or to the home of
Bishop Messiah
23 Herte Street
Peerless Park North
Kraaifontein, Cape 7570
Tel. 011 27 21 987 4825
11. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
From: reverendrevball@hotmail.com
We thank God for the cards, support, and contributions we received concerning the death of our father, Willie Eugene Ball, on Dec. 27, 2005.
Now we need your prayers more than ever. Gregory Ball, Jr, the only son of the Reverend Gregory Ball tragically died on Monday, January 2nd in Baltimore, Maryland. Funeral services for the late Gregory Ball, Jr. (son of Rev. Gregory Ball, Pastor of Brown's A.M.E. Church Smithfield, VA) are as follows:
Viewing of the body:
Monday, January 9, 2006
3:00 - 7:00 PM
Homegoing Service:
Tuesday, January 10, 2006 at Noon Both services will take place at:
Ebenezer African Methodist Episcopal Church
20 West Montgomery Street
Baltimore, MD 21230
Eulogist: Bishop Adam J. Richardson Presiding Bishop of the 2nd Episcopal District
Rev. Charles Baugh, Pastor
Phone: 410-783-0190 (Please call before faxing)
Funeral arrangements entrusted to:
Wesley Chavis Funeral Home
2007 Eastern Avenue
Baltimore, MD 21231
410-342-7400 (office)
410-342-4797 (fax)
We know God will see us through this very difficult time. In lieu of flowers we ask contributions be made to:
The Gregory Ball Jr. Memorial Fund
c/o Atlantic Financial Federal Credit Union
40 Schilling Rd. Hunt Valley, MD 21031
Acct. # 2001330-ID #01
OR
Bown's A.M.E. Church
655 Main Street
P.O. Box 99
Smithfield, VA 23431
If you send contributions to this address, please make checks payable to Brown's African Methodist Episcopal Church. In the memo section please note: Gregory Ball Jr. Memorial Fund
Thank you again and may God Bless.
Rev. and Mrs. Gregory Ball, Sr.
6 Madrone Place
Hampton, VA 23666
757-838-0685
Email: reverendrevball@hotmail.com
12. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
From: 1wim@htcomp.net
The Rev. Mary Miller, Pastor of Lee Chapel A.M.E. Church-Brownwood, Texas, stepfather, (Rev. Lawrence Sculark) passed.
Rev. Sculark's Homegoing Service will be held Saturday, January 7, 2006, at 11 A.M. at United Baptist Church in Cleveland, Mississippi.
United Baptist Church
1101 Martin Luther King Dr.
Cleveland, Mississippi 38732
Ph: (662) 843-3120
Rev. Sculark's remains have been entrusted to Eddie Robinson FuneralHome.
Eddie Robinson Funeral Home
1126 Fox Street
Grenada, Mississippi 38901
Ph: (662) 226-3123
Condolences may be sent to:
Mrs. Evie Sculark
P. O. Box 227
Rome, Mississippi 38768
Ph: (662) 345-6594
13. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
Sister Scharlotte Rhodes the sister of Rev. Joanie Walker-Nickerson passed.
Service Arrangements for Sister Rhodes:
Wake: Thursday, January 5, 2006
7:15 P.M.
Golden Gate Funeral Home
110 E. Pleasant Run
Dallas, Texas 75146
Ph: (972) 218-7232
Sis. Rhodes Homegoing Service will be at 11 A.M., Friday, January 6, 2006, at Golden Gate Funeral Home in Dallas, Texas.
Condolences may be sent to:
The Rev. Joanie Walker-Nickerson
6324 Forest Knoll Trail
Dallas, Texas 75232
Ph: (214) 375-2145
14. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT ANNOUNCEMENTS PROVIDED BY:
Bishop Carolyn Tyler Guidry, Chair
Commission on Social Action Clergy Family Information Center
Mrs. Ora L. Easley - Administrator Email: Amespouses1@aol.com
(Nashville, Tennessee Contact) Phone: (615) 837-9736 Fax: (615) 833-3781
(Memphis, Tennessee Contact) (901) 578-4554 (Phone & Fax)
Please remember these families in your prayers.
15. 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
1/02/2006
THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER ONLINE ENGLISH EDITION (1/2/06)
Bishop Gregory G. M. Ingram - Chair, Commission on Publications
The Reverend Dr. Johnny Barbour, Jr., Publisher
The Reverend Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III, Editor
1. A NEW YEAR’S MESSAGE FROM THE RIGHT REVEREND A. J. RICHARDSON, PRESIDING PRELATE OF THE SECOND EPISCOPAL DISTRICT:
On the eve of the turning of the calendar to a new page identified by a new number, I thought of the wondrous possibilities and the unknown quantities that may unfold.
Of the wondrous possibilities, I pray that your year will be filled with all the joy, love, hope, happiness, prosperity, peace, personal contentment, satisfaction, achievement, and goodwill that can be contained in each succeeding day of the year. I pray that your decisions will be wise, and that the consequences of poor choices will be minor and soon overcome with the apparent and important lessons learned from the experience. I pray that you will end each day with a satisfied look on your face and pride in your heart, knowing you have done your best. I pray that you will have enough energy to complete the tasks placed into your capable hands, that your body can keep up with your mind and that your mind will remain active, alert, and brilliantly creative. I pray that your friends will be many and your real enemies few, with the knowledge of knowing who both are and the sense to know the difference.
Of the unknown quantities, I pray that you will have sufficient grace to stare down any foe, and the capacity of leadership and appropriate follow-ship to handle any burden or walk any path or overcome any obstacle or solve any problem or lift any load, or face any challenge; with the understanding that it's a good thing we cannot know when disaster is in our forecast. Such knowledge would likely paralyze us, and prevent any interaction that would ultimately benefit our families, our community, or the world -- however large or small our world may be. So, I pray that your faith will be sufficient to match your challenges, climb your mountains, or brave the storms that may be in your future.
In short, I pray that your New Year will be blessed: hopeful, happy, helpful, holy, healthy, and full of good humor.
A. J. Richardson
Presiding Prelate, 2nd Episcopal District
AME Church
2. 2006 WISH LIST FROM THE EDITOR (CON’T)
- That pastors will memorize the AME liturgy, i.e., Call to Worship, the full Decalogue, or at least the abridged Decalogue, and most certainly the Summary of the Decalogue, the Communion Service, and the Marriage ceremony.
Editor’s note: I can recite it pretty much from memory when someone else is reading it, but always rely on the hymnal, worship book, bulletin or The Discipline when I am asked to do one of the acts of liturgy. I can remember as a child the Reverend W. Stevenson doing every part of the liturgy from memory.
My 2006 resolution is to memorize the Call to Worship and the Decalogue and not use any aid when I am leading either of those portions of the liturgy. .
- That bishops will allow, and insist upon, closure for pastors and congregation affected by changes in pastoral appointments.
- That pastors will take responsibility for their reassignment and not let the bishop or presiding elder be the “fall-person” when the losing congregation complains about the reappointment. Pastors who are reassigned should explain the itinerancy system in the AME Church. Pastoral closure with the congregation should be positive and upbeat.
3. WISH LIST FOR THE AME CHURCH FROM THE REVEREND DARGENAE’ PATTERSON:
- That pastors of churches focus on the message and not the minutes (time-frame) of the sermon.
- That other ministers be giving an opportunity to share a message with fellow ministers at meetings, etc and the pastor not be afraid to allow the ministers on the staff to preach to the congregation say on Friday evenings or something similar.
- We as servants of the Most High shake the favoritism, and "clicks" realizing there is no one better in the gates of heaven.
- We can work more on the message from God and not the show that may be on display.
- Other ministers be given responsibilities (not running the church) in order to assist the pastor of these mega-churches in being fulltime pastors and utilizing their study time with the Lord.
- As a Connectional family that seasoned pastors be given opportunity to share more of their stories at conferences, workshops, Board of Examiners Institute, and not focus on the individuals' calling and personal happenings in their life.
That the Spirit of the Lord be with pastors which, will allow them to discern what to say and not to say, do and not do.
The Rev. Dargenae' Patterson
4. THE EDITOR’S TRIBUTE TO THE REVEREND ALDUSTUS EARL JORDAN, SR.:
The Reverend Aldustus Earl Jordan was an important person in my life. When I moved to Rahway, New Jersey in November 1957, he was the pastor of Ebenezer AME Church. I went to Second Baptist Church on my first Sunday in Rahway. It seemed to be where all of the young people attended church. I just did not get a good feeling and I knew that was not the spiritual home for me.
The next Sunday, I went to Sunday School at Ebenezer AME Church on Central Avenue and the minute I walked onto the church, I knew that I had found my spiritual home. The Reverend A. Earl Jordan introduced himself to me as soon as I entered the building. After a few minutes with him, it was confirmed in my mind that I had found “church home” before I had even attended the morning worship service. I knew that I was going to join Ebenezer. I could not wait for the sermon to end and for the invitation to be extended. I probably went forward before the congregation started singing and before Reverend Jordan extended the invitation. I joined Ebenezer on that cold November morning in 1957. I had found a church home and I had found a pastor. I remember that Reverend Jordan was young and he had a large family.
He was the young pastor of Ebenezer and I understood that he was in his late 20’s, As I said, when he greeted me as I walked into Ebenezer, I knew that I had found a church home; actually I found more than a church home. I found a family. His family became my family. He saw something in me and he mentored me from the time we met.
He would take me with his wife and children when he went to visit his family (or his wife’s family) in New York. I spent a lot to time with him and he knew that I was “running away from the ministry.” He told me to “take my time” and I would know what God had in mind for me. I worked in my newfound home at Ebenezer AME Church. Reverend Jordan took me to my first annual conference. It was in Jersey City, New Jersey. The Right Reverend George Baber was the presiding bishop. I attended the ordination service on a Saturday in 1958. Reverend Jordan laid the foundation for my ministry.
Reverend Jordan was transferred from Ebenezer and I remember how hurt the congregation was when he was assigned to another charge. I can remember how hurt I was. I cannot remember where he was assigned, I just know that his, and his family’s departure, saddened us all.
I did not get an opportunity to acknowledge my call to the ministry because it seemed now that his reassignment was sudden. The Reverend Jesse F. Owens was assigned to Ebenezer and I accepted my call to ministry, but Reverend Jordan had planted the seed for ministry.
I finished college and seminary and pastored in the Kentucky Annual Conference. I went into the Army as a Chaplain and when I attended the Advanced Chaplains Course, I reconnected with Reverend Jordan and he was so happy to learn of my progress. He was pastoring in Harlem and he had me to preach for him. It was an opportunity that I will never forget. After that, we saw each other at General Conferences, he was excited about my ministry, and I was excited about his ministry. Reverend Jordan was as proud of me as he was of his children.
I retired from the military chaplaincy after 28 years and was elected as the 20th Editor of The Christian Recorder at the 47th Quadrennial General Conference that was held in Indianapolis in 2004. I count the Reverend Aldustus Earl Jordan, Sr. as a mentor, friend, and an inspiration for my ministry and especially as one of the foundation blocks in my position as a General Officer in the African Methodist Episcopal Church. I will always remember the young pastor I had as a teenager who ministered so well to young people. I recall his sermons and especially his admiration for Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
The Reverend Aldustus Earl Jordan, Sr, was a true embodiment of Bishop Richard Allen and the Free African Society. Reverend Jordan did the work that was assigned to his hands and he influenced a number of lives and most importantly, my life.
He will be missed and I hope that I can be, and am, the inspiration to others as The Reverend Aldustus Earl Jordan was.
5. WE HAVE COME ALONG WAY, BUT WE HAVE A LONG WAY TO GO:
We have come a long way or so it seemed until Christmas day 2005.
My daughter was blessed with two versions of the doll at the top of her Christmas Wish List, Baby Annabell. She received the Original (white) Baby Annabell from her Godparents and the Ethnic (black) Baby Annabell from Santa, her parents.
There were subtle differences between the two dolls that my daughter did not notice in her excitement. She did not notice that the Original (white version) came in a window box covered with cellophane to protect it from dust and dirt, while the Ethnic (black version) came in an uncovered window box. Maybe our daughter missed the fact that the Original had a cute donut shaped baby bottle decorated with a floating heart and a sheep face top which matched her outfit, while the Ethnic baby had an old-fashioned bottle decorated with the sheep face decal. My daughter did notice the Original came with a diaper. The diaper was missing from the Ethnic version.
I noticed these differences immediately and remembered the sinking feeling I felt as a little girl when I realized the white dolls were always more beautiful than the black dolls. How I longed for a black baby doll with beautiful brown skin and manageable hair. That longing was always met with disappointment when I received an ash-black doll with matted hair. Back then, I thought, “the white doll must be better. She has the 'good hair' adorned with pretty bows and the fancy dress trimmed in lace.” The white dolls were definitely more pleasing to the eye than its black counterpart was. I am thinking now that it may have been the accessories that created the difference in my mind.
Yes, the message is as clear to me today, as it was 30 years ago, the perception created and maintained that one group of people is superior to another group of people. The packaging and accessories send the message, and very plainly, that whites are better than blacks are. What a terrible message to send to an innocent group of youngsters. How many other ways is this trend of thought still being silently, but blatantly communicated to our black youth?
And, to add injury to the insult is that the Ethnic Baby Annabell costs, on the average, $5 more than the Original. In what other venues are we spending more for less, based on ethnicity?
So, on Christmas day 2005, as my daughter tore open the boxes of her two new dolls, I asked myself, “Have we really come a long way?” And, my reply was, “Yes, but we still have a long way to go!”
Editor’s note: Joanna Wells Sydnor Kibwe is Editor Sydnor’s Daughter-in-law and lives in Hampton, Virginia
6. ALUMNI ASSOCIATION OF TURNER THEOLOGICAL SEMINARY PREPARES FOR THEIR ANNUAL DAY AT THE 112TH FOUNDERS DAY CELEBRATION ON FEBRUARY 7, 2008:
The Rev. Kyle C. Gibson
The Alumni Association of Turner Theological Seminary has been hard at work over the past year putting together an alumni day that represents the make up of our talented and gifted alumni. We would like to take this time to invite you to celebrate and witness what the new administration has in store for you. This will be the first Founder’s Day Celebration under the leadership of our new President, Rev Ammie Davis-Miller, who has made a commitment to make the Alumni Association of Turner Seminary the best. On Monday, February 6, 2006 the Executive Board and Standing Committees will meet at 5:30 p.m. and 6:30 President Miller has planned a welcome reception at Paschal’s Restaurant for Alumni and Friends.
Tuesday’s morning, at 8:30 a.m. the Alumni Association will host their annual Breakfast Gala where the Keynote Speaker will be Civil Rights Leader C. T. Vivian. Vivian was a close friend and lieutenant of the late Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. He is the Founder of Black Actions Strategies and Information Center (BASIC), was a Freedom Rider and a member of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference. The cost of this breakfast is $20.00 and it will be held at the Interdenominational Theological Center (I. T. C.) Cafe; all proceeds for the breakfast will go toward the Alumni Association’s Fund Development Campaign, which is used to raise funds for Turner Theological Seminary.
Following the Breakfast, the Alumni Association will hold its Annual Business Session in the Franklin Auditorium on the campus of I. T. C. The members of Turner Alumni will discuss several important issues that guide our illustrious institution to a higher level. At the conclusion of the Alumni meeting, we will break for lunch, and then come together for a Wreath Laying Ceremony at South View Cemetery, the Grave Site of Bishop Henry McNeal Turner.
On returning to campus, the Alumni will sponsor a Workshop titled: Can the Floppy Disk Generation Minister to A C-Rom Generation. Our Moderator, The Reverend Ellis Washington, in response to the topic, responding saying “the question is rather "How Can The Floppy Disk Generation Minister To A CD-Rom Generation?" He also reminds us “that we must minister across generational lines is a given if we are to survive and remain relevant!” The members of the panel are: Melee Connor, Julius McAllister Jr., John White II, Bobby Cox, Estella Shiraz, and Kevin McKeithen.
We will then take a break and return for the Alumni Worship Service. This year our Preacher will be The Reverend Dr. Leslie White of Grant A.M.E. Church in Los Angeles, CA. This year’s Alumni Day will be one of the best we have ever had. Make your plans now to be there, hope to see you as we “Celebrate our History and Culture: Pursuing our Future.”
7. KENTUCKY CONFERENCE LEADERSHIP TRAINING FOR STEWARDS, TRUSTEES AND CLASS LEADERS:
Saturday, January 7, 2006 at 10:00 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. at St. Paul A.M.E. Church, 215 Douglas Avenue, Versailles, Kentucky. Registration fee is $5.00 per person (lunch)
Please note that two sessions for each leadership group has been scheduled to allow those serving in dual roles to receive the appropriate training.
Training Schedule:
10:00-10:30: Plenary Session
10:30-12:00 Noon: Concurrent Session I
Stewards –
The Rev. Ralph Johnson, Instructor
Trustees – Rev. Dr. Robert A. Strode, Instructor
Class Leaders – Rev. Frederick E. Hale, Instructor
12:00 Noon: Lunch
1:00-2:30: Concurrent Session II
Stewards – Presiding Elder Ralph Johnson, Instructor
Trustees - Rev. Dr. Robert A. Strode, Instructor
Class Leaders – Rev. Frederick E. Hale, Instructor
8. ST. JAMES AFRICAN METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH, MEMPHIS, TENNESSEE SELECTED AS HOST CHURCH FOR 5TH NATIONAL OBSERVANCE OF JUSTICE SUNDAY:
St. James African Methodist Episcopal Church, Memphis, along with the National Alliance of Faith and Justice (NAFJ) of the National Association of Blacks in Criminal Justice, invite you and your congregation to participate in the 5th National Observance of Justice Sunday weekend. Memphis has been selected as the host city for 2006 and St. James African Methodist Episcopal Church has the honor of being the 2006 host church.
The mission of NAFJ is to promote the value of the inclusion of faith in addressing consequences and resolution of crime. For the past five years, our organization has received a Grant of Rights to utilize Dr. King’s quotes and images in conjunction with the goals and principles of Justice Sunday.
NAFJ is focusing on Dr. King’s advocating “the social gospel” through:
- Offenders returning in massive numbers to communities that are unprepared to receive them
- Children whose parent(s) are incarcerated
- Disproportionate incarceration of people of color due to disparaging sentencing
- Youth who are currently enslaved by drugs, gangs, and disruptive behaviors
On Saturday, January 14, 2006, from 9:30 a.m. – 12 noon, local and national Faith and Justice representatives will meet to engage in a positive dialogue and strategic planning session to “Rally the Armies of Faith, Justice and Compassion” in our community. Activities for children and young adults are at St. James from 1:30 – 5 p.m. McGruff, the crime-fighting dog, has been invited. First Book has been invited to provide free books for young children. Opportunities for youth to envision themselves as “drum majors for freedom” will be offered through historic Underground Railroad simulations that are similar to today’s challenges, video excerpts from “The Intolerable Burden” and workshops on the “Pen or Pencil” will be available to provide the youth with a “Road to Somewhere”. On Sunday, January 15, we invite you to worship with us for a “Service to Encourage” worship experience at 10 a.m. at St. James A.M.E. Church, 600 N. Fourth St., Memphis.
We hope you and your YPD Department will share with us during this 2-day event. We look forward to meeting and working with you. For further information on these events and how you can participate, please contact Sister Beverly Goines at 901.603.3047.
Yours in the Struggle,
Rev. Walter Winstead Reid, Jr., Pastor
St. James African Methodist Episcopal Church
Mrs. Beverly T. Goines
Co-Chair Public Relations Commission
St. James African Methodist Episcopal Church
901.603.3047
Justice Sunday Committee:
Rev. Walter Winstead Reid, Jr.
Beverly T. Goines
Gale Millen
Gwen Foxx
Evelyn Thurman
Gale Scott
E. Jean Gill
Essie Thurman
Irma Higgs
Jodie Higgs
Dorothy Rozier
St. James African Methodist Episcopal Church
600 North Fourth Street
Memphis, TN 38107
Phone: 901.525.2017; Fax: 901.525.6233
Visit us @ www.stjamesame-memphis.org
Listen to us at 2 p.m. Sundays on local station, AM 1340 WLOK
9. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
Mrs. Helen B. Isom, ministers widow, 6th Episcopal District, former Parliamentarian of the Connectional WMS passed.
Arrangements
Funeral:
Thursday, January 5, 2006
11:00 AM
Turner Monumental AME Church66 Howard Street, NE Atlanta, GA 30317
404-378-5970 (Phone)
Services are entrusted to:
Willie A Watkins Funeral Home
1003 Ralph David Abernathy Blvd., SW
Atlanta, GA 30310
(404) 758-1731 (Phone)
404) 758-3246 (Fax)
Condolences may be sent to the family of Mrs. Helen B. Isom:
Send condolences to:
Turner Monumental AME Church (Address above)
Willie A. Watkins Funeral Home (Address above)
10. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
Amber Chambliss, the daughter of Mr. Francis Chambliss (member of Union Bethel AME Church, New Orleans, LA) and Mrs. Jean Chambliss, former residents of New Orleans, LA now residing in Baton Rouge, LA.
Amber Chambliss is the niece of Captain Carroll R. Chambliss, US Navy Retired.
Arrangements:
Funeral
Tuesday, January 3, 2006
10:30 AM
St. Jean Vianney Catholic Church
16166 South Harrells Ferry Road
Baton Rouge, LA 70816
225-753-7950 (Phone)
225-753-7965 (Fax)
Condolences may be sent to:
Caption Carroll R. Chambliss, US Navy Retired
200 N. Pickett St. # 708
Alexandria, VA 22304
703-823-2616 (Phone)
Email condolences:cchambliss1@comcast.net
11. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT ANNOUNCEMENTS PROVIDED BY:
Bishop Carolyn Tyler Guidry, Chair
Commission on Social Action Clergy Family Information Center
Mrs. Ora L. Easley - Administrator Email: Amespouses1@aol.com
(Nashville, Tennessee Contact) Phone: (615) 837-9736 Fax: (615) 833-3781
(Memphis, Tennessee Contact) (901) 578-4554 (Phone & Fax)
Please remember these families in your prayers.
12. CONDOLENCES TO THE BEREAVED FROM THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER:
The Chair of the Commission on Publications, the Right Reverend Gregory G. M. Ingram; the Publisher, the Reverend Dr. Johnny Barbour and the Editor of the Christian Recorder, the Reverend Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III offer our condolences and prayers to those who have lost loved ones. We pray that the peace of Christ will be with you during this time of your bereavement.
The Reverend Dr. Johnny Barbour, Jr., Publisher
The Reverend Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III, Editor
1. A NEW YEAR’S MESSAGE FROM THE RIGHT REVEREND A. J. RICHARDSON, PRESIDING PRELATE OF THE SECOND EPISCOPAL DISTRICT:
On the eve of the turning of the calendar to a new page identified by a new number, I thought of the wondrous possibilities and the unknown quantities that may unfold.
Of the wondrous possibilities, I pray that your year will be filled with all the joy, love, hope, happiness, prosperity, peace, personal contentment, satisfaction, achievement, and goodwill that can be contained in each succeeding day of the year. I pray that your decisions will be wise, and that the consequences of poor choices will be minor and soon overcome with the apparent and important lessons learned from the experience. I pray that you will end each day with a satisfied look on your face and pride in your heart, knowing you have done your best. I pray that you will have enough energy to complete the tasks placed into your capable hands, that your body can keep up with your mind and that your mind will remain active, alert, and brilliantly creative. I pray that your friends will be many and your real enemies few, with the knowledge of knowing who both are and the sense to know the difference.
Of the unknown quantities, I pray that you will have sufficient grace to stare down any foe, and the capacity of leadership and appropriate follow-ship to handle any burden or walk any path or overcome any obstacle or solve any problem or lift any load, or face any challenge; with the understanding that it's a good thing we cannot know when disaster is in our forecast. Such knowledge would likely paralyze us, and prevent any interaction that would ultimately benefit our families, our community, or the world -- however large or small our world may be. So, I pray that your faith will be sufficient to match your challenges, climb your mountains, or brave the storms that may be in your future.
In short, I pray that your New Year will be blessed: hopeful, happy, helpful, holy, healthy, and full of good humor.
A. J. Richardson
Presiding Prelate, 2nd Episcopal District
AME Church
2. 2006 WISH LIST FROM THE EDITOR (CON’T)
- That pastors will memorize the AME liturgy, i.e., Call to Worship, the full Decalogue, or at least the abridged Decalogue, and most certainly the Summary of the Decalogue, the Communion Service, and the Marriage ceremony.
Editor’s note: I can recite it pretty much from memory when someone else is reading it, but always rely on the hymnal, worship book, bulletin or The Discipline when I am asked to do one of the acts of liturgy. I can remember as a child the Reverend W. Stevenson doing every part of the liturgy from memory.
My 2006 resolution is to memorize the Call to Worship and the Decalogue and not use any aid when I am leading either of those portions of the liturgy. .
- That bishops will allow, and insist upon, closure for pastors and congregation affected by changes in pastoral appointments.
- That pastors will take responsibility for their reassignment and not let the bishop or presiding elder be the “fall-person” when the losing congregation complains about the reappointment. Pastors who are reassigned should explain the itinerancy system in the AME Church. Pastoral closure with the congregation should be positive and upbeat.
3. WISH LIST FOR THE AME CHURCH FROM THE REVEREND DARGENAE’ PATTERSON:
- That pastors of churches focus on the message and not the minutes (time-frame) of the sermon.
- That other ministers be giving an opportunity to share a message with fellow ministers at meetings, etc and the pastor not be afraid to allow the ministers on the staff to preach to the congregation say on Friday evenings or something similar.
- We as servants of the Most High shake the favoritism, and "clicks" realizing there is no one better in the gates of heaven.
- We can work more on the message from God and not the show that may be on display.
- Other ministers be given responsibilities (not running the church) in order to assist the pastor of these mega-churches in being fulltime pastors and utilizing their study time with the Lord.
- As a Connectional family that seasoned pastors be given opportunity to share more of their stories at conferences, workshops, Board of Examiners Institute, and not focus on the individuals' calling and personal happenings in their life.
That the Spirit of the Lord be with pastors which, will allow them to discern what to say and not to say, do and not do.
The Rev. Dargenae' Patterson
4. THE EDITOR’S TRIBUTE TO THE REVEREND ALDUSTUS EARL JORDAN, SR.:
The Reverend Aldustus Earl Jordan was an important person in my life. When I moved to Rahway, New Jersey in November 1957, he was the pastor of Ebenezer AME Church. I went to Second Baptist Church on my first Sunday in Rahway. It seemed to be where all of the young people attended church. I just did not get a good feeling and I knew that was not the spiritual home for me.
The next Sunday, I went to Sunday School at Ebenezer AME Church on Central Avenue and the minute I walked onto the church, I knew that I had found my spiritual home. The Reverend A. Earl Jordan introduced himself to me as soon as I entered the building. After a few minutes with him, it was confirmed in my mind that I had found “church home” before I had even attended the morning worship service. I knew that I was going to join Ebenezer. I could not wait for the sermon to end and for the invitation to be extended. I probably went forward before the congregation started singing and before Reverend Jordan extended the invitation. I joined Ebenezer on that cold November morning in 1957. I had found a church home and I had found a pastor. I remember that Reverend Jordan was young and he had a large family.
He was the young pastor of Ebenezer and I understood that he was in his late 20’s, As I said, when he greeted me as I walked into Ebenezer, I knew that I had found a church home; actually I found more than a church home. I found a family. His family became my family. He saw something in me and he mentored me from the time we met.
He would take me with his wife and children when he went to visit his family (or his wife’s family) in New York. I spent a lot to time with him and he knew that I was “running away from the ministry.” He told me to “take my time” and I would know what God had in mind for me. I worked in my newfound home at Ebenezer AME Church. Reverend Jordan took me to my first annual conference. It was in Jersey City, New Jersey. The Right Reverend George Baber was the presiding bishop. I attended the ordination service on a Saturday in 1958. Reverend Jordan laid the foundation for my ministry.
Reverend Jordan was transferred from Ebenezer and I remember how hurt the congregation was when he was assigned to another charge. I can remember how hurt I was. I cannot remember where he was assigned, I just know that his, and his family’s departure, saddened us all.
I did not get an opportunity to acknowledge my call to the ministry because it seemed now that his reassignment was sudden. The Reverend Jesse F. Owens was assigned to Ebenezer and I accepted my call to ministry, but Reverend Jordan had planted the seed for ministry.
I finished college and seminary and pastored in the Kentucky Annual Conference. I went into the Army as a Chaplain and when I attended the Advanced Chaplains Course, I reconnected with Reverend Jordan and he was so happy to learn of my progress. He was pastoring in Harlem and he had me to preach for him. It was an opportunity that I will never forget. After that, we saw each other at General Conferences, he was excited about my ministry, and I was excited about his ministry. Reverend Jordan was as proud of me as he was of his children.
I retired from the military chaplaincy after 28 years and was elected as the 20th Editor of The Christian Recorder at the 47th Quadrennial General Conference that was held in Indianapolis in 2004. I count the Reverend Aldustus Earl Jordan, Sr. as a mentor, friend, and an inspiration for my ministry and especially as one of the foundation blocks in my position as a General Officer in the African Methodist Episcopal Church. I will always remember the young pastor I had as a teenager who ministered so well to young people. I recall his sermons and especially his admiration for Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
The Reverend Aldustus Earl Jordan, Sr, was a true embodiment of Bishop Richard Allen and the Free African Society. Reverend Jordan did the work that was assigned to his hands and he influenced a number of lives and most importantly, my life.
He will be missed and I hope that I can be, and am, the inspiration to others as The Reverend Aldustus Earl Jordan was.
5. WE HAVE COME ALONG WAY, BUT WE HAVE A LONG WAY TO GO:
We have come a long way or so it seemed until Christmas day 2005.
My daughter was blessed with two versions of the doll at the top of her Christmas Wish List, Baby Annabell. She received the Original (white) Baby Annabell from her Godparents and the Ethnic (black) Baby Annabell from Santa, her parents.
There were subtle differences between the two dolls that my daughter did not notice in her excitement. She did not notice that the Original (white version) came in a window box covered with cellophane to protect it from dust and dirt, while the Ethnic (black version) came in an uncovered window box. Maybe our daughter missed the fact that the Original had a cute donut shaped baby bottle decorated with a floating heart and a sheep face top which matched her outfit, while the Ethnic baby had an old-fashioned bottle decorated with the sheep face decal. My daughter did notice the Original came with a diaper. The diaper was missing from the Ethnic version.
I noticed these differences immediately and remembered the sinking feeling I felt as a little girl when I realized the white dolls were always more beautiful than the black dolls. How I longed for a black baby doll with beautiful brown skin and manageable hair. That longing was always met with disappointment when I received an ash-black doll with matted hair. Back then, I thought, “the white doll must be better. She has the 'good hair' adorned with pretty bows and the fancy dress trimmed in lace.” The white dolls were definitely more pleasing to the eye than its black counterpart was. I am thinking now that it may have been the accessories that created the difference in my mind.
Yes, the message is as clear to me today, as it was 30 years ago, the perception created and maintained that one group of people is superior to another group of people. The packaging and accessories send the message, and very plainly, that whites are better than blacks are. What a terrible message to send to an innocent group of youngsters. How many other ways is this trend of thought still being silently, but blatantly communicated to our black youth?
And, to add injury to the insult is that the Ethnic Baby Annabell costs, on the average, $5 more than the Original. In what other venues are we spending more for less, based on ethnicity?
So, on Christmas day 2005, as my daughter tore open the boxes of her two new dolls, I asked myself, “Have we really come a long way?” And, my reply was, “Yes, but we still have a long way to go!”
Editor’s note: Joanna Wells Sydnor Kibwe is Editor Sydnor’s Daughter-in-law and lives in Hampton, Virginia
6. ALUMNI ASSOCIATION OF TURNER THEOLOGICAL SEMINARY PREPARES FOR THEIR ANNUAL DAY AT THE 112TH FOUNDERS DAY CELEBRATION ON FEBRUARY 7, 2008:
The Rev. Kyle C. Gibson
The Alumni Association of Turner Theological Seminary has been hard at work over the past year putting together an alumni day that represents the make up of our talented and gifted alumni. We would like to take this time to invite you to celebrate and witness what the new administration has in store for you. This will be the first Founder’s Day Celebration under the leadership of our new President, Rev Ammie Davis-Miller, who has made a commitment to make the Alumni Association of Turner Seminary the best. On Monday, February 6, 2006 the Executive Board and Standing Committees will meet at 5:30 p.m. and 6:30 President Miller has planned a welcome reception at Paschal’s Restaurant for Alumni and Friends.
Tuesday’s morning, at 8:30 a.m. the Alumni Association will host their annual Breakfast Gala where the Keynote Speaker will be Civil Rights Leader C. T. Vivian. Vivian was a close friend and lieutenant of the late Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. He is the Founder of Black Actions Strategies and Information Center (BASIC), was a Freedom Rider and a member of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference. The cost of this breakfast is $20.00 and it will be held at the Interdenominational Theological Center (I. T. C.) Cafe; all proceeds for the breakfast will go toward the Alumni Association’s Fund Development Campaign, which is used to raise funds for Turner Theological Seminary.
Following the Breakfast, the Alumni Association will hold its Annual Business Session in the Franklin Auditorium on the campus of I. T. C. The members of Turner Alumni will discuss several important issues that guide our illustrious institution to a higher level. At the conclusion of the Alumni meeting, we will break for lunch, and then come together for a Wreath Laying Ceremony at South View Cemetery, the Grave Site of Bishop Henry McNeal Turner.
On returning to campus, the Alumni will sponsor a Workshop titled: Can the Floppy Disk Generation Minister to A C-Rom Generation. Our Moderator, The Reverend Ellis Washington, in response to the topic, responding saying “the question is rather "How Can The Floppy Disk Generation Minister To A CD-Rom Generation?" He also reminds us “that we must minister across generational lines is a given if we are to survive and remain relevant!” The members of the panel are: Melee Connor, Julius McAllister Jr., John White II, Bobby Cox, Estella Shiraz, and Kevin McKeithen.
We will then take a break and return for the Alumni Worship Service. This year our Preacher will be The Reverend Dr. Leslie White of Grant A.M.E. Church in Los Angeles, CA. This year’s Alumni Day will be one of the best we have ever had. Make your plans now to be there, hope to see you as we “Celebrate our History and Culture: Pursuing our Future.”
7. KENTUCKY CONFERENCE LEADERSHIP TRAINING FOR STEWARDS, TRUSTEES AND CLASS LEADERS:
Saturday, January 7, 2006 at 10:00 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. at St. Paul A.M.E. Church, 215 Douglas Avenue, Versailles, Kentucky. Registration fee is $5.00 per person (lunch)
Please note that two sessions for each leadership group has been scheduled to allow those serving in dual roles to receive the appropriate training.
Training Schedule:
10:00-10:30: Plenary Session
10:30-12:00 Noon: Concurrent Session I
Stewards –
The Rev. Ralph Johnson, Instructor
Trustees – Rev. Dr. Robert A. Strode, Instructor
Class Leaders – Rev. Frederick E. Hale, Instructor
12:00 Noon: Lunch
1:00-2:30: Concurrent Session II
Stewards – Presiding Elder Ralph Johnson, Instructor
Trustees - Rev. Dr. Robert A. Strode, Instructor
Class Leaders – Rev. Frederick E. Hale, Instructor
8. ST. JAMES AFRICAN METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH, MEMPHIS, TENNESSEE SELECTED AS HOST CHURCH FOR 5TH NATIONAL OBSERVANCE OF JUSTICE SUNDAY:
St. James African Methodist Episcopal Church, Memphis, along with the National Alliance of Faith and Justice (NAFJ) of the National Association of Blacks in Criminal Justice, invite you and your congregation to participate in the 5th National Observance of Justice Sunday weekend. Memphis has been selected as the host city for 2006 and St. James African Methodist Episcopal Church has the honor of being the 2006 host church.
The mission of NAFJ is to promote the value of the inclusion of faith in addressing consequences and resolution of crime. For the past five years, our organization has received a Grant of Rights to utilize Dr. King’s quotes and images in conjunction with the goals and principles of Justice Sunday.
NAFJ is focusing on Dr. King’s advocating “the social gospel” through:
- Offenders returning in massive numbers to communities that are unprepared to receive them
- Children whose parent(s) are incarcerated
- Disproportionate incarceration of people of color due to disparaging sentencing
- Youth who are currently enslaved by drugs, gangs, and disruptive behaviors
On Saturday, January 14, 2006, from 9:30 a.m. – 12 noon, local and national Faith and Justice representatives will meet to engage in a positive dialogue and strategic planning session to “Rally the Armies of Faith, Justice and Compassion” in our community. Activities for children and young adults are at St. James from 1:30 – 5 p.m. McGruff, the crime-fighting dog, has been invited. First Book has been invited to provide free books for young children. Opportunities for youth to envision themselves as “drum majors for freedom” will be offered through historic Underground Railroad simulations that are similar to today’s challenges, video excerpts from “The Intolerable Burden” and workshops on the “Pen or Pencil” will be available to provide the youth with a “Road to Somewhere”. On Sunday, January 15, we invite you to worship with us for a “Service to Encourage” worship experience at 10 a.m. at St. James A.M.E. Church, 600 N. Fourth St., Memphis.
We hope you and your YPD Department will share with us during this 2-day event. We look forward to meeting and working with you. For further information on these events and how you can participate, please contact Sister Beverly Goines at 901.603.3047.
Yours in the Struggle,
Rev. Walter Winstead Reid, Jr., Pastor
St. James African Methodist Episcopal Church
Mrs. Beverly T. Goines
Co-Chair Public Relations Commission
St. James African Methodist Episcopal Church
901.603.3047
Justice Sunday Committee:
Rev. Walter Winstead Reid, Jr.
Beverly T. Goines
Gale Millen
Gwen Foxx
Evelyn Thurman
Gale Scott
E. Jean Gill
Essie Thurman
Irma Higgs
Jodie Higgs
Dorothy Rozier
St. James African Methodist Episcopal Church
600 North Fourth Street
Memphis, TN 38107
Phone: 901.525.2017; Fax: 901.525.6233
Visit us @ www.stjamesame-memphis.org
Listen to us at 2 p.m. Sundays on local station, AM 1340 WLOK
9. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
Mrs. Helen B. Isom, ministers widow, 6th Episcopal District, former Parliamentarian of the Connectional WMS passed.
Arrangements
Funeral:
Thursday, January 5, 2006
11:00 AM
Turner Monumental AME Church66 Howard Street, NE Atlanta, GA 30317
404-378-5970 (Phone)
Services are entrusted to:
Willie A Watkins Funeral Home
1003 Ralph David Abernathy Blvd., SW
Atlanta, GA 30310
(404) 758-1731 (Phone)
404) 758-3246 (Fax)
Condolences may be sent to the family of Mrs. Helen B. Isom:
Send condolences to:
Turner Monumental AME Church (Address above)
Willie A. Watkins Funeral Home (Address above)
10. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
Amber Chambliss, the daughter of Mr. Francis Chambliss (member of Union Bethel AME Church, New Orleans, LA) and Mrs. Jean Chambliss, former residents of New Orleans, LA now residing in Baton Rouge, LA.
Amber Chambliss is the niece of Captain Carroll R. Chambliss, US Navy Retired.
Arrangements:
Funeral
Tuesday, January 3, 2006
10:30 AM
St. Jean Vianney Catholic Church
16166 South Harrells Ferry Road
Baton Rouge, LA 70816
225-753-7950 (Phone)
225-753-7965 (Fax)
Condolences may be sent to:
Caption Carroll R. Chambliss, US Navy Retired
200 N. Pickett St. # 708
Alexandria, VA 22304
703-823-2616 (Phone)
Email condolences:cchambliss1@comcast.net
11. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT ANNOUNCEMENTS PROVIDED BY:
Bishop Carolyn Tyler Guidry, Chair
Commission on Social Action Clergy Family Information Center
Mrs. Ora L. Easley - Administrator Email: Amespouses1@aol.com
(Nashville, Tennessee Contact) Phone: (615) 837-9736 Fax: (615) 833-3781
(Memphis, Tennessee Contact) (901) 578-4554 (Phone & Fax)
Please remember these families in your prayers.
12. 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.
