THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER ONLINE ENGLISH EDITION (12/23/09)

Bishop Richard Franklin Norris - Chair, Commission on Publications
The Reverend Dr. Johnny Barbour, Jr., Publisher
The Reverend Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III, the 20th Editor, The Christian Recorder

Season’s Greetings

We, at The Christian Recorder, wish all of our subscribers and all of you who read The Christian Recorder Online, a Merry Christmas and a Blessed New Year!

A poem written by Rosalie Jones Moore expresses our Christmas wish.

His Season

It is that joyous,
Time of year,
That loved ones travel,
From far and near,

Coming together,
To bring joy and cheer,
Sharing gifts from the heart,
To loved-ones dear,

The time of year,
To celebrate the glorious life,
Of the Son of God,
Our Lord and Savior – Jesus Christ,

Take the time,
To remember the reason,
That Christ died for our sins,
So that we could celebrate –
His Season

©Copyright November 17, 2009 by Rosalie Jones Moore

1. EDITORIAL – A BUSY, BUT BLESSED SEASON:

As it has been for many of you, this is been a busy season for me. Keeping up with all of the activities in the African Methodist Episcopal Church can keep the most organized person overwhelmed. There are a lot of good things going on in the AME Church. Bishops, General Officers, Episcopal Supervisors, Connectional Officers, Chaplains, Presiding Elders, Pastors, and active members have awesome responsibilities.

September to December, for the AME Publisher and the Editor of The Christian Recorder has been a busy time of editing, travel, meetings, more travel, more meetings, more editing and many more things to do. In spite of all of the requirements and all of the responsibilities of The Christian Recorder, I am not complaining because the ministry of TCR is the best ministry in the African Methodist Episcopal Church.

This issue of The Christian Recorder Online is a long one, so this editorial piece will not be long because I want you to read the many articles in this issue.

I want you to read all of the articles, but I especially encourage you to read the three presentations made at CONVO XIII on December 8, 2009 at the Opryland Hotel by three outstanding young well-educated AME scholars. Their presentations are at #3 of this issue of TCR Online.

2. READER RESPONSE TO EDITORIAL AND OTHER ISSUES:

- To the Editor:

RE: This Message for Those Who Accepted Challenge II

I was introduced to the Message Bible as a gift from the now, Bishop Gregory G. M. Ingram, and at the time I was elated to read the Message Bible with such contemporary language that I had never read in a Bible before. However, it became a bookshelf Bible that I used as a reference to compare with other Bible versions and never made an effort to read it from cover to cover. I accepted Challenge II and found the message Bible’s contemporary vocabulary fast and easy to read. I gave little thought to pause and meditate as I would in my daily prayer and meditation time when reading the King James Version or The MacArthur Study Bible, New King James Version. Personally, I couldn’t spiritually discern the presence, nearness, or the urging of the Holy Spirit while reading it as when reading the above mention versions. I combined my reading time of The Message Bible and The Story, which was an excellent recommendation. However, I personally use The Message Bible as supplemental reading, a reference, and for clarity, but not as my primary biblical reading source. I do have friends that have a high appreciation for The Message Bible and I respect that. On the first of December I resumed the Challenge, again reading The MacArthur Study Bible.

Dr. Sydnor, please continue the challenges and keep the reading material recommendations coming.

Milton L. Weathers, Steward, Oak Grove African Methodist Church
Detroit, Michigan

-To the Editor:

RE: Request for the expertise of some of our TCR readers.

Do you know the history of our AME Call to Worship? I know it is not the United Methodist Call to Worship, but I don't know anything about where it came from.

Melinda

- To the Editor:

RE: A puzzling question from The Book of Discipline of the African Methodist Episcopal Church 2008 about Membership, Article IV.

Where there is no local Lay Organization; and the pastor has not established one, and there is a member of the local church who wants to become a lay member and serve on the Conference Lay; is that allowed? Why or Why not?

The discipline also states duly organized Lay or Representative shall be members of the Official Board. Can they function on the annual conference level from their local church even if the local church does not have an organized Lay Organization?

Name Withheld

- To the Editor:

RE: Deaconesses in the AME Church

I am looking for any information anyone might have regarding the Deaconess Movement in the AME Church.

Name Withheld

3. SCHOLARLY PRESENTATIONS DELIVERED AT CONVO XIII - “MINISTRY, TRADITIONS, TENSIONS, AND TRANSITIONS”:

I. TRADITIONS:

*Glenda F. Hodges, PhD, JD, MDiv

In order to explicate this area, it is necessary that we begin with two pivotal questions…

Who are we and what is this ministry?
An examination of who we are can be asserted through the Major Premise that is espoused in 2 Corinthians, 4:1 -- “Therefore, since we have this ministry, as we have received mercy, we faint not..” and is espoused in 1 Peter 2:9, we are a “chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a peculiar people that we should show forth the praises of him who has called us out of darkness into his marvelous light.”

Our Doctrine and Discipline of the AME church indicates that we are called to minister to the needs of all people while proclaiming the liberating gospel of Jesus Christ. For this reason, we preach the gospel, feed the hungry, clothe the naked and house the homeless.

I submit that the ministry should be representative of who we are. It remains consistent. Notwithstanding our denomination, traditions, customs, rituals or practices, we must tell others of the Good news of Jesus Christ. Romans 10: 9, 10 inform us that salvation is specific to the believers. Such is the embodiment of this ministry. So as we are attempting to lead others in our various capacities within our traditions, it is important that we know who we are, whose we are and what ministry is. It is certain that we cannot lead others where we have not been or are even unwilling to go.

This ministry must inform our traditions.
Jesus came as a Messenger from God. He did not speak His own words but the words that the Father gave Him. His message was not about Himself, but rather the good news that the Father ordained to be announced on earth. Until we recognize that it is not about us, we cannot fully embrace this ministry. Our traditions cannot supplant or become superior to this ministry.

They are man made and as such, they are subject to correction, modification and even change. Alternatively, this ministry is the same yesterday, today and forever more. It gives us assurance that our sins are forgiven and it extends Christ to all who accept His ultimate sacrifice. When we fully engage in this ministry, we need not participate in competitive behavior to cajole others to come to our churches. When we do the work of this ministry, the Lord will add to the church daily, such as should be saved. Accordingly, we will not need to pursue favor from men because we are assured of the anointing from God.

What are our images of ministry?
To what extent have we overly imposed our traditions on this ministry, which has been entrusted to us? Are we defining the ministry or is this ministry truly changing us? Are we attempting to recreate this ministry in response to whatever is popular, fashionable and/or promotes our personal agendas?

Is our AME mission realistic and of such impact that we can truly utilize this ministry and effectively “spread Christ’s liberating gospel through word and deed?”

Have we become preoccupied with adherence to our rituals or are we shepherding this ministry to ensure that souls are saved, lives are changed and the hurting is healed. Have we yielded this ministry to only that of “feelings and emotions” and totally abandoned the real message that “Jesus saves.” When our parishioners depart to serve, can they remember the preacher’s text or can they only recite the “Decalogue, the Apostle’s Creed or even the songs that the Choir sang. God inspires this ministry and it remains profitable for doctrine, reproof, correction and instruction in righteousness.

How do we present or realize this ministry?
What avenues work and which ones do not? Ephesians 4:11 is illustrative. Some were called as apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors and teachers. A number of theologians have suggested that the apostles came to lay the foundation and the prophets completed this work, since the church is said to have been built on the foundation of the apostles and the prophets. Still others assert that the real work of ministry is vested in pastors and teachers.

Our AME tradition provides direction regarding clergy classifications, such as Itinerants, Locals, Elders, Deacons and Exhorters, but are these distinctions significant enough to make a difference in the presentation and work this ministry?

Where is the audience for this ministry?
I contend that the hearers are without limit. Wherever persons are in darkness, hard-pressed, perplexed or struck down, there is fertile ground for this ministry. Sometimes, we may encounter these persons within the sanctuary; at other times they may be beyond the sanctuary or in nontraditional settings. We must create new venues and discover workable approaches that perpetuate this ministry.

For the last 12 years, I have been blessed to take this ministry into the Howard University College of Medicine, where we are teaching physicians and other health care professionals to bridge the gap between faith and science. This venue is certainly not a traditional church neither is it a faith based institution. Without proselytizing or offending others, we have discovered enormous opportunities for this ministry. I have come to realize that persons can be disease free and still be sick. A number of these same persons worship with us, they know and understand our traditions; however, they are unwell. The World Health Organization has indicated that wellness is not just the absence of disease, but a sense of physical, emotional, psychological, social and spiritual well-being. This ministry is able to transcend science. It can go where a stethoscope, an X-ray, a CT Scan or even an MRI has no access. It has the ability to restore life in the midst of a terminal prognosis.

What is the power of this ministry?
The excellence of the power is of God and not of us. The dichotomy is obvious. Within our traditions, there are times when we are hard pressed on every side. But because God remains faithful, we are not crushed down. At the conclusion of some of our meetings that are a part of our tradition, we might be perplexed, but because of this ministry, we are not in despair. There are occasions when we feel persecuted, but this ministry will not allow us to be forsaken. We may even feel struck down, but so long as we are anchored in this ministry, we are not destroyed.

We are grateful for our traditions and even with them, the AME church remains a viable vehicle through which this ministry may be proclaimed. If a specific thing has utility, then why discard it? If, on the other hand, it no long serves the purpose for which it was intended, then the time has come to do a new thing!

In the law, we often refer to past practice. In essence, past practice remains good law until we encounter a situation that reaches beyond the precedent which our past practices have set. Then, we are required to create new law, rewrite old law and revisit past practices. The same is true of our traditions.

According to the numbers that are reported by many of our Pastors at our Annual Conferences, the AME Church is not suffering from a lack of participation. But, even in the midst of this real or imagined growth, we must remember that except the Lord builds the house, they labor in vain that build it.

Our AME mission must remain relevant and consistent with this ministry. Our images of ministry must be so authentic that others can see that our work is not self-centered, but examples of Christ that lives in us. Then and only then can we transform our environments and do the real work of this ministry.

*Dr. Glenda F. Hodges is a professor at Howard University School of Medicine and is an AME Itinerant Elder

II. TENSIONS IN MINISTRY

Michael Joseph Brown, Ph.D.

First Tension: Demographic Shift
All available census data indicates that African Americans are moving to the South:
1980 53%
2002 55%
2004 57%

Within the next decade 60%+
Cities like Atlanta and the Washington D.C.-Baltimore have led the way in black migrants since the late 1990s. New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, and San Francisco suffered the greatest out migration of black during the same period.

Three key factors in this reverse migration:
1. College-educated African Americans lead the new migration into the South. Georgia, Texas, and Maryland were the "brain gain" states that attracted the most black college graduates from 1995-2000, while New York had the largest net loss.

2. Some of the old "Black Belt" counties in the nonmetropolitan South have also been the recipients of this migration. In 96 counties, the black compromised 50 percent or more of the county population and 95 of these counties were in the non-metropolitan South, St. Louis being the only exception. Cheaper housing in the rural areas has attracted some older black people who have decided to retire in the South, as well as some younger blacks who are willing to commute to jobs in metropolitan areas (e.g., ATL).

3. It is middle-class, well-educated African Americans who are moving to the South, often attracted by a "critical mass of black professionals who reside in and around many southern cities." Some prominent black suburbs have developed outside of Washington D.C., Atlanta, and Nashville. Du Bois' "talented tenth" in the early 20th century has turned into the "talented one third" of the present era.

On its surface, this is a positive move for the Black Church. In the South religious adherence in terms of church attendance and membership is higher than anywhere else in the country. The strong religious context and social pressure will affect all of the new black migrants whether they were religious or not before they migrated. The key question is what kind of strategies can the AME Church adopt to deal with this reverse migration?

Another related issue in this migration is the suburbanization of many black churches. Here the question is will there be a "suburban captivity of the black churches" to paraphrase a famous critical work by Gibson Winter of white churches, where material wealth reigns and the black urban poor remain a distant memory? Similarly, in many of the these nonmetropolitan areas of the South we still observe the pattern of a largely "absentee pastorate," where pastors may have more than one charge and the majority of these pastors live in urban areas and commute an average of over 40 miles to their churches.

Another thing to think about: studies since the Civil Rights period have pointed to a growing trend of denominational switching among African American Christians. In a 2002 study, scholars found that black Methodists, including the AME Church, lost an average of 20.4 percent of their original membership because of unequal switching exchanges. Baptists have lost about 12.2 percent due to switching. Nondenominational groups have made huge gains, and the proportion of African Americans who have no religious affiliation is increasing across all age cohorts.

I haven't mentioned anything about the megachurch phenomenon, but an estimated 25 percent of the participants in megachurch congregations are African American. According to studies, most of the attendees of black megachurches live in the outer city or suburbs and commute to their congregations, which are largely in the inner city. Furthermore, their membership is overwhelmingly middle to upper middle class. Approximately 8 percent of such megachurches are AME compared to 46 percent that are Baptist. If we were to debate the theological strengths and weaknesses of the so-called Prosperity Gospel movement — a phenomenon often identified with the megachurch movement — then it should be seen in the context of upwardly mobile working and middle class African Americans.

Second Tension: Educational Disparity between Laity and Clergy
Since it is the college educated African Americans who make up the core of this migration, the question for our leadership is how much should we stress educational requirements for black clergy? Estimates of seminary trained black clergy vary from 20 to 30 percent nationwide. As one scholar commented, "[The] ministry is the only class of black professionals where the majority of practitioners do not have graduate training." While I do not think that seminary education is a panacea or solution for all problems, there is a growing demand for an educated clergy by middle class African Americans.

The latest study in 2003 indicated that 29 percent of black clergy had completed the Master of Divinity degree or its equivalent. If more advanced degrees are considered, such as an advanced Masters, Doctor of Ministry or Ph.D. degree, the black clergy rate goes up to 49 percent. By contrast, 52 percent of white clergy had received the M.Div. or its equivalent and advanced degrees total 72 percent. The education of clergy is one of the most significant factors for ministry in the 21st century. Studies have shown that community outreach programs of black churches, working with government and foundation funds, and advancement on the issue of supporting women as pastors are highly correlated with the level of clergy education.
One of the ways larger churches have attempted to address the educational disparity between an increasingly well-educated laity and a markedly less educated clergy has been the growth of local Bible Institutes. In fact, apprenticeship to a pastor and attendance at local Bible institutes have been the primary means by which most black clergy have received their training. Many of these Bible institutes are uneven in quality. However, Oral Roberts University has set up an evangelical accrediting agency that helps to accredit local Bible colleges and many black megachurches have found this attractive for the schools they operate. For many black clergy, Bible institutes have been attractive because they meet several needs, including credentialing, low cost, and accessible education.

The historically black divinity schools and the denominations that support them need to come to terms with the diverse ways of educating black pastors and develop their own outreach strategies because Black megachurches are beginning to fill the void with their own Bible institutes.

One of the places where education might help our clergy most is in the analysis of public policy issues. As one scholar pointed out, there is a major weakness in public policy analysis advocacy at the national level by black church denominations. Yet, there is still another problem. The majority of clergy in the USA do not receive any training in public policy analysis as part of their education in divinity schools. For African American clergy, whose role as religious and community leaders often intersects with politics, that kind of training in public policy is imperative.

Third Tension: Women in Ministry
According to Delores Carpenter, the movement of black and white women into the professional ministry increased 240 percent from 1930 to 1980. However, she pointed out that the number of black women graduates from accredited theological seminaries increased an astounding 676 percent from 1972 to 1984. The problem is that during that same period, few black women could find jobs in historically black denominations. In fact, in a 1986 study more than half of the surveyed black women in the study (51%) turned to white denominations partly because of the increased opportunity for ordination and employment, and the more rigid resistance and obstacles they experienced in the mainline black churches. In a 1992 study, 52 percent of women switched. However, in 1999, only 45 percent had switched, indicating a significant decrease. Nevertheless, denominational switching still remains a significant factor for black women in ministry and black church denominations are losing out on the talent and potential they represent.

Among the historically black denominations, the AME Church has been the most progressive in advancing the opportunities for women. As one scholar commented, "The three African American women elected as bishops in the AME Church are more than any other historically black denomination and equal to the total elected by the United Methodist Church." In fact, over a 10 year period, the acceptance of women as senior pastors has grown from 30 percent in 1990 to 72 percent in 2000. Such progress notwithstanding, the issue of women in ministry still looms large in our denominational future.

Fourth Tension: Ministerial Identity
In a 1990 study, the median age for all black clergy, urban and rural, was 52 years. In a 2001 study, the median age was 53. What does it mean for the church that 61% of black clergy are over 50 years old?

* Dr. Michael Joseph Brown is Associate Professor of New Testament and Christian Origins in the Candler School of Theology and the Graduate Division of Religion and Director of the Graduate Division of Religion at Emory University in Atlanta

III. THE AME CHURCH IN TRANSITION:

*Mark Tyler, Ph.D.

If you watched ESPN's Sports Center on yesterday you would have seen something that was really remarkable. Quarterback Drew Brees from the New Orleans Saints dropped back; threw a deep pass and the pass was intercepted. In an instant, the defensive player who intercepted it took off running in the other direction trying to make a touchdown off of Brees' mistake. The person for whom the ball was intended, wide receiver Robert Meachum, instead of laying on the ground wallowing in despair because he did not catch the ball jumped up and took off running after the person who made the interception. All he wanted to do was simply make a tackle to stop him from scoring, but when Meachum caught up with him he began to wrestle with him for the ball. In fact, he took the ball right out of the hands of the defender (who was much stronger than him); he then turned around, and then ran all the way back for a New Orleans touchdown. Now if the other person had scored, it would have been 21 to 7 and more than likely the New Orleans Saints' strive to be perfect this year would have ended. But, as a result of Meacum's exceptional play, the score became 14 to 14 and the rest as they say is history as New Orleans went on to win over the Redskins and remain perfect thus far.

This is what occurred to me about that moment on the field. When he lined up at the line of scrimmage Robert Meachum was on offense. When the ball was intercepted he had to transition to defense. But once he stripped the ball and got it back from the interceptor, he then quickly transitioned back to offense. The reality is that in sports, you have to be adaptable to the ever changing circumstances on the field. The circumstances on the field change quickly, but there are some players who get upset and stop playing when the play doesn't go their way. They just sit there and wonder why the quarterback threw the pass too short or why the quarterback did not see that they were open. These players don't adapt very well. But Meachum saved the game because in less than one minute, he went from offense to defense and back from defense to offense without ever breaking a stride.

Those who are the most successful on the field of life are the players who transition quickly, who recognize the environment has changed, and instead of sitting around talking about why they don’t come to our church anymore, simply just go out and do what they need to do because the situation is now different. One of the things we don’t do very well as a denomination and I think most of us will agree is that we don’t adapt to changing situations as well as we should. It's not as though we don’t see it coming a mile away. We recognize that patterns have changed, that trends have changed, but then we find adapting difficult and making a transition to the new reality difficult. I'd argue that one of the reasons we are unable to adapt as we should is, ironically, because of one of our greatest strengths: our Tradition.

Tradition is a very positive thing. When you think about it, tradition is what keeps an organization together: it’s reliable, it’s trustworthy, and you know exactly where it will take you even if you are not happy with the results, it is resilient, it is strong, and it does not change easily. Without question, we have deep and rich traditions in the African Methodist Episcopal Church. The question is, in the face of such strong tradition, is how do we move to a place where our traditions do not prevent us from changing when we need to? That’s a struggle for all of us. Those who have ever held leadership responsibility in the church will recognize that this is something we really have to wrestle with. How do we work with the good of tradition while not allowing it to paralyze us where we are? How do we remain nimble enough to move from offense to defense or defense to offense as the situation calls for?

When I presented at the CONVO a couple of years ago, I shared the story of how in 1844, Bishop Daniel Payne introduced the Board of Examiners to the AME Church. I want to go back there today to look at a moment in the life of the Church when our denomination went through a major transition. It is easy to make certain small incremental changes, but every now and then we have moments where a major shift in how we do things occurs. This was one of those occasions. Prior to 1844, preachers seeking ordination were taken through the apprenticeship model, with little or no attention paid to the issue of literacy.

Under that plan, preachers would ride alongside a seasoned pastor on a circuit as a licentiate for 2 years. When the pastor said they were ready to be ordained deacon, members of the Annual Conference received the recommendation, elected the person a deacon, and the Bishop ordained them. Then, they would ride with someone else for another 2 years until that person said that they were ready to be ordained elder. This was the model used up to 1844 for preparing clergy for ordination, a system given to us by the Methodist Episcopal Church. We adopted it, we used it, it was a reliable guide, and it was our tradition. But, by 1844, most people recognized that it had limitations and short comings. In fact, some of the same issues faced back then remain unresolved today.

The need for an educated clergy began to turn into a crisis as the education of the members in the pew began to out pace the education in the pulpit. Most of the preachers prior to 1844 were illiterate and relied heavily on God's “inspiration” to help them in preaching, because they could not read the Bible for themselves. The Church was demanding pastors who could read and write for themselves. Everyone knew the Church needed an educated clergy, but no one seemed able to move it to the point where the Church could make the transition. The reason they could not do it is because to attempt to change the tradition of the apprenticeship model meant going through hell. That's what real change means, going through hell. If you are not prepared to go through real hell then you are not prepared to make real change.

Tradition is strong to serve as a check against fanatics who come along with wild and unstable ideas that would undermine the organization. Tradition is resistant to new change that pushes against it and this is why culture is difficult to change. It is good that tradition does not change easily. This is why Daniel Payne and others were met with considerable resistance (even hostile resistance) when they brought this new and wonderful idea to educate the clergy through the Board of Examiners. Even though people knew that it was the best thing for the Church, no one wanted to let go of the old way and move on to the new way. It polarized the church in such a way that half the people said “if you change the system, we’ll leave the AMEC” and the other half said “if you don’t implement the change we’ll leave.” Sometimes, life puts an organization in a situation where it has no choice but to deal with and confront the needed change. Because of the threats to his own safety and the possibility that the Church would be split as a result of his proposal, Payne almost did not show up to the General Conference. However, Bishop Morris Brown convinced him to show up and make his presentation. Just as Payne had predicted, his new plan to educate clergy broke out into so much “excitement” that Bishop Brown had to close the General Conference for the night out of fear of violence.

The next morning, the Rev. Abram D. Lewis, a veteran Itinerant Elder stood up and took the floor. Not very educated himself, he began to speak passionately to his colleagues about the need for an educated clergy so that the next generation did not have to be like them relying on what others said about the Word. Sometimes you have to give up what you want to get what you need, even when what you give up has been a part of your tradition. Some of the very same people who voted Payne out the night before began to cry out “give us a resolution” after hearing Rev. Lewis. Literally, they were bathed in tears and everyone voted for the change.

There are important lessons that we can learn about the “Church in Transition” through this case study. First, we have to recognize when the moment to transition is right. In this case, there was a critical mass and it was the time for the needed change. Secondly, the time being right won't help if there is no one available with the expertise to lead the organization through the transition. Daniel Payne was the right man for the job and he showed up at the right time. But, Payne's new affiliation with the AME Church highlights the third important lesson learned in this case, which is that there must be a commitment to change from veteran insiders who are viewed as stakeholders. Payne had only been an AME for 3 years by the seating of the General Conference in 1844 and he was viewed with suspicion for his ties with the Methodist Episcopal Church and his Lutheran seminary training. He clearly needed some help from the inside. The Rev. Abram D. Lewis was the voice from the inside that carried Payne’s plan and he received the nod Bishop Morris Brown, the undisputed leader of the AME Church. It is unlikely that the plan of transition would have survived to see the light of day without a commitment from the leadership at the top.

If the Church of today is going to make the needed transition to continue to serve the present age, it must recognize when the moment is right, have the availability of the needed personnel to carry out the change, have committed insiders working for change, and have a firm commitment from those in leadership positions to support the agents of change. But beware, as stated above, changing the nature of organizations can mean going through hell. However, don't fear, for even Jesus went through Hell to change things for our good. Leading the AME Church through the transition into a new day may take us through Hell, but God through His example of Christ, has promised not leave us there!

At the conclusion of the presentation, there were 3 specific recommendations made. Here is a brief summary of each recommendation:

- The Board of Examiners needs to be updated and made to fit modern expectations. As stated before, the BOE was created to address the need of illiteracy and provide a basic theological education. Today, both are givens for our itinerant clergy in that all persons must be literate and possess a seminary education. With this said, the 4 year plan can be used to address those areas that many feel are deficient. For example, pastors are required by the Discipline to serve as the Chief Financial Officer of the local church. No where, however, through the entire Course of Study is a candidate asked if they can even balance a checkbook. This needs to be addressed, in that financial issues in the local church tend to preoccupy much of our time. It is not fair to ask a person to do a job for which they have not been properly trained or educated, and then hold them responsible when they fail. This can be rectified by including basic accounting classes into the curriculum of the BOE. Or, consider that the pastor is the automatic chair of the board of trustees, but may not know anything about property matters. As a “traditional” student, going college as a young person, then on to seminary, my first “real job” was as pastor in my mid 20s. I had no property or experience with deeds or insurances or anything that I was expected to know. I had to learn on “the fly”, which is not the preferred method. Spending time with a real estate attorney and a contractor in the BOE would have been invaluable.

- As a denomination, we must become “people driven” more than “property driven”. We have an unhealthy attachment to church property. In far too many cases, our membership has relocated from the neighborhood, but the church remains. Although other entities such as the grocery store, the barbershop, etc. have followed the people, the church holds on and refuses to move or even plant a new work where the members have gone. As a result, new congregations of differing denominations grow and the children of our members join them because of a lack of access to local AME congregations.

- We must bridge the technology gap. We have been woefully slow to take advantage of new technological opportunities, such as social networking websites, streaming video, telephone and video conferencing, just to name a few. Tonight, following this presentation, I will conduct Bible Study at Mother Bethel via videoconferencing using Skype and a PowerPoint projector. The feed will find me in front of my laptop while the members of the congregation sit and interact with me at the church in the lecture hall. Not only is this a great advance in technology, it is one of many free mediums available; that's right, the call does not cost the church one dime. This is our first step toward a “virtual Bible Study” where groups will gather in clusters in remote areas to hear the Word where they live. This will cut down the time they have to commute back into the city after work, it will give them more time at home with their families, and it will keep them connected to the church in a personal and meaningful way.

*Dr. Mark Tyler serves as the 52nd pastor of Mother Bethel AME Church in Philadelphia

3. THE AMEC GLOBAL DEVELOPMENT EXECUTIVE BOARD MEETING, LYON, FRANCE:

The Global Development Executive Board Meeting will convene February 24 - 26, 2010 in Lyon, France.

The 16th Episcopal District, European Conference: Novelle Alliance AMEC will host the GDC Executive Board Meeting. .

Details & Hotel Information can be found on the AMEC Official Website: http://www.ame-church.com/news-and-events/.

If you need a hotel reservation, go to the AMEC Official Website and fill out the form ASAP, save it to your computer, and email the completed form to Sister Madelyn Johnson at madjohnson@msqpc.org , or FAX to the 16th Episcopal District's U.S. Office: 281-759-5123 ASAP.


4. “THE GREAT GATHERING OF AME, AMEZ, AND CME CHURCH CLERGY AND LAITY WILL MEET IN COLUMBIA SOUTH CAROLINA ON MARCH 2-4, 2010:

The Right Rev. John White, Ecumenical Officer and Endorsing Agent for the African Methodist Episcopal Church announced that the three largest black Methodist bodies will meet in Columbia, South Carolina on March 1 – 3, 2010.

The leadership of the three largest Black Methodist churches met at the Marriott Hotel in Columbia on December 10, 2009 to strategize and design for the largest meeting of Black Methodists. The leadership of the three denominations was in attendance at the Columbia meeting.

The opening prayer was given by CME Senior Bishop William H. Graves, who petitioned God to “Bless the significant occurrence and allow us to work together.” Bishop George W. C. Walker (AMEZ) gave a summary of just how we got to the point of designing a mass gathering of the three largest Black Methodist organizations. The previous ecumenical conference of the three denominations was held in 1964. Bishop Walker said he felt God’s presence in the framework of this upcoming event.

AME prelate, Bishop John White suggested, “We need to witness to this country, that when the Methodist family gets together, we will make a difference in the world that everyone will see!”

The theme for the ecumenical gathering is, “Meeting the Needs of the 21st Century for Black Methodism.”

The low cost registration fee will be $21 in order to be able to gauge attendance; will be donated to a charitable organization.

The following Projections were made for attendance at “The Great Gathering”: AME: 3,500; AMEZ: 2,000; and CME: 1,500.

Share this message and make your hotel reservations now; this meeting will be historic and well attended.

Hotel Information:

Marriott Hotel
1200 Hampton Street
Columbia, SC
1-800-593-6465
Group: Gathering10
Rate: $109.00/night

Deadline for Reservation January 15. 2010

The Tentative Schedule:

Monday, March 1
10 a.m.-6 p.m.: Registration (at sites to be announced)
1 p.m.-6 p.m.: Episcopates Gather for Meetings
1 p.m.-5 p.m.: ”Stakeholder’s Meetings” (Dialogue between General Officers’, Presiding Elders, Missionaries, Departments, ‘The Joshua Generation,’ Preachers, Youth & Young Adults, Musicians & Lay leaders.
7 p.m. Worship

Tuesday, March 2
8:00 a.m.-8:50 a.m. Bible Study
9:00-10:30 a.m. Plenary I
11:00 a.m. -12:30 p.m. Plenary II
12:30 p.m.-1:45 p.m. Lunch
2:00 p.m.-3:30 p.m. Plenary III
4:00 p.m.-5: 30 p.m. Class Meetings (12 to 24 Classes)
7:00 p.m. Revival Worship
10:00 p.m.-Midnight Youth-oriented event

Wednesday, March 3
8:00 a.m.-8:50 a.m. Bible Study
9:00 a.m.-10:30 a.m. Sharing I
11 a.m.-12 Noon Sharing II

Pre-Gathering Committees:

Program: Public Relations / Marketing:
The Rt. Rev. John White, AME/the Rt. Rev. Ronald Cunningham, CME
The Rt. Rev. Kenneth Monroe, AMEZ/ the Rt. Rev. James Davis, AME
The Rt. Rev. Thomas Hoyt, CME/the Rt. Rev. Louis Hunter, AMEZ
The Rev. Jimmy Gilbert
Dr. Elnora Hamb, CME

Initiatives to be Forwarded Budget
The Rt. Rev. Warren Brown, AMEZ Rt. Rev. George WC Walker, AMEZ
The Rt. Rev. Carolyn Tyler-Guidry, AME Rev. William Graves, CME
The Rt. Rev. Thomas Brown, CME Rt. Rev. John Bryant, AME

Sponsorships Intercessory Prayer
The Rt. Rev. George Battle, AMEZ (NA), CME
The Rt. Rev. Henry Williamson, CME/ the Rt. Rev. Darryl Starnes, AMEZ
The Rt. Rev. Vashti Mc Kenzie, AME (NA), AME

The Great Gathering Planning Meeting Attendees:

The Rt. Rev. John Bryant
The Rt. Rev. Preston Williams II
The Rt. Rev. Carolyn Tyler Guidry
The Rt. Rev. James L. Davis
The Rt. Rev. George W. C. Walker
The Rt. Rev. John F. White
The Rt. Rev. George E. Battle
The Rt. Rev. Warren M. Brown
The Rt. Rev. Louis Hunter, Sr.
The Rt. Rev. Kenneth Monroe
The Rt. Rev. William H. Graves
The Rt. Rev. Thomas L. Hoyt
The Rt. Rev. Lawrence L. Reddick
The Rt. Rev. Ronald M. Cunningham
The Rt. Rev. Thomas L. Brown, Sr.
The Rt. Rev. Marshall Gilmore, Ret
The Rev. Dr. Staccato Powell,
The Rev. George E. Mc Kain Zionpagem2@aol.com
Mr. Mike Lisby, Editor, The Star of Zion
The Rev. Juenarl Keith
The Rev. Otha Smith
The Rev. J.R. Williams
The Rev. Staccato Powell II
Mr. Lon Wells
Ms. Twila Jones
Charles E. Young, Ph.D.

For more information contact: Ecumenical and Urban Affairs Office: 954-416-5133

This information was submitted by Bishop John White I

5. GENERAL CONFERENCE COMMISSION MEETING, NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE (USA):

The General Conference Commission Meeting for the 49th Quadrennial Session of the General Conference convened this morning, December 7 and will close on Wednesday, December 9, 2009. Additionally, there will be a golf event at a championship PGA golf course facility for the 2012 prior to the General Conference on Tuesday, June 26th, 2012.

Bishop Gregory G. M. Ingram, Presiding Prelate of the 10th Episcopal District is the Chair of the General Conference Commission and CONVO XIII; Bishop Richard Franklin Norris, the Presiding Prelate of the 1st Episcopal District is the Chair of the AME Re-Insurance Board; Bishop Adam Jefferson Richardson, Jr., Presiding Prelate of the 2nd Episcopal District if the Chair of the Committee on Right-Sizing the General Conference Delegation; Bishop John F. White, Ecumenical Officer and Indorsing Agent is the Chair of the Commission on Seminaries, Universities, Colleges and Schools; and the Reverend W. Bartlette Finney is the Chair of the Connectional Council of Presiding Elders.

Bishop John Bryant, Presiding Prelate of the 4th Episcopal District and Senior Bishop of the African Methodist Episcopal Church gave welcoming remarks as did Bishop Gregory G. M. Ingram, Bishop Vashti Murphy McKenzie, and Bishop Carolyn Tyler Guidry. Bishop Samuel L. Green, Sr. acknowledged special guests. Bishop McKenzie is the host bishop for the General Conference Commission Meeting.

Bishop Ingram introduced Mr. Robert S. Shumake, Chief Executive Officer of the Inheritance Capital Group, LLC who presented a check for $50,000 to the AME Church and became the first corporate sponsor for the 49th Session of the Quadrennial Session of the General Conference that will meet at the Gaylord Opryland Resort and Convention Center in Nashville, Tennessee June 27 – July 4, 2012.

Dr. Richard Lewis, Treasurer/CFO AMEC Finance Department gave a detailed Planning Status Report.

- 49th Quadrennial General Conference dates: June 27 – July 4, 2012

- The Gaylord Opryland Resort and Convention Center in Nashville can accommodate all delegates and the entire facility, including all major meeting rooms have been blocked for the General Conference. The hotel has over 2000 guest rooms; 14 restaurants; 25 boutiques and retail stores; a day spa and fitness center and complimentary shuttle to the Opry Mills Mall, which has over 200 places to eat and shop.

- Contracted rooms at the Gaylord Opryland Resort and Convention Center will be $140 per night (studio suites will also be available); overflow rooms will be available at the Radisson Hotel for $119 and complimentary transportation will be provided.

- The target to begin registration will be at the 2011 General Board Meeting.

The following appointment of Committee Chairs was made by the General Conference Commission Chair:

Executive: Bishop Gregory G. M. Ingram
Prayer: Bishop Sarah Davis
Program: Bishop William Phillips DeVeaux
Facilities and Security: Bishop Vashti Murphy McKenzie
Election: Bishop Samuel L. Green, Sr.
Finance: Bishop James Levert. Davis
Registration: Bishop Theodore Larry Kirkland
Public Relations: Bishop E. Earl McCloud, Jr.

6. MM MOKONE MEMORIAL ANNUAL CONFERENCE:

The 25th Annual Session of the MM Mokone Annual Conference (previously North Transvaal) convened at Edith Ming A.M.E. Church in Temba on 1 October 2009 with the singing of the hymn “And Are We Yet Alive and See Each Other’s Face.”

This annual conference is the youngest, but definitely not the smallest, as it coincides with the establishment of the 19th Episcopal District detaching from the 15th Episcopal District in 1984. We got off to an exciting start with educational, spiritual and inspirational sermons.

Some of the landmarks and highlights of this conference include the continuous teaching that took place. The difference between naming churches as Cathedral, Temple or Chapel and the difference between a Circuit, a Charge, a Mission and a Station was clarified. One of the methods of serving and receiving the Lord’s Supper was also introduced as intinction. These were indeed new and well received educational experiences.

Church growth also received its share of the celebrations as two churches were established, namely: Ekangala A.M.E. Church in the Capital District (previously Pretoria District) and Tshikuwi in the Venda District. The latter district celebrating 80 years of existence since the first church was planted in that part of the country.

Saturday 3rd October 2009 saw the ordination of five persons in the name of the Rev. NM Tshivhase and the Rev. GP Lesito as itinerant deacons, the Rev. MJ Maleho and the Rev. TT Masehela as itinerant elders, and lastly, the Rev. AB Nconco as a local elder for Mt. Sinai A.M.E. Church, Mamelodi.

The conference came to an end on Sunday 4th October 2009 with the preaching of the word by the Rt. Rev. JN Leath whose message was taken from Genesis 1:24-31 and Revelation 21:1-8, with the subject “Get Ready”. This powerful preaching was followed by Pastoral and Presiding Elders’ appointments where the latter were all reappointed to their districts. The next Annual Conference will be hosted by the Mokone Temple A.M.E. Church, Ga-Rankuwa on 7-10 October 2010.
We praise God for this milestone and past conference and acknowledge the educating and meticulous leadership of Bishop Jeffrey Nathaniel Leath, Presiding Elders, Pastors, Conference Officers, Delegates, visitors and the entire Mokone family.

The Rev. Gaborone P Lesito

7. STATE OF THE COUNTRY: 134TH SESSION ANNUAL CONFERENCE:

The Federalist Movement was formed in 1780 to give opposition to the ratification of the Constitution of the United States. This opposition was based on the belief that the Articles of Confederation threatened the sovereignty of the states, authorized "monarchic" powers, and threatened individual rights and civil liberties. In order to address these concerns, the Bill of Rights was drafted, submitted to the states for ratification and was subsequently adopted on December 15, 1791. The First Amendment of the Constitution states that: Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the free press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances.

It has been within the context of these individual rights and civil liberties; particularly the freedom of speech and peaceful assembly that a faction of the populace of this country has set forth a public agenda of fear, intimidation and inferred violence that does disservice and discredit to the constitutional rights that they so ardently claim to defend. This attitude of disrespect and defamation has resulted in disruption of health care reform debates in town hall meetings, inspired comparisons of the current administration to Nazi Germany; and emboldened Rep. Joe Wilson to call the President of the United States of America a liar from the halls of a joint session of Congress before a worldwide television audience. Even more shocking, a recent poll created on
Facebook asked respondents to comment on the question, "Should Obama be killed?"

The post-election era of Barack Obama, the 44th President of the United States who happens to be of African American descent, was envisioned to be a time of cultural enlightenment, political reconciliation and a collective mandate to move beyond the divisiveness of past generations, towards a more unified sense of human concern and national purpose. The recent insult-laced rhetoric and ideological arguments made in opposition of the administration's vision for the future of the country has done much to dispel those lofty and optimistic goals. Unwittingly, what these arguments have revealed is that the lines of division in this country are no longer defined along traditional parameters. Because of this historic election, division has transcended the definitions of Democrat vs. Republican, liberal vs. conservative, or even black vs. white; but now division is framed around the argument of "yesterday vs. tomorrow". The mob mentality of the Tea Party Patriots and Birthers, manufactured outrage stirred by Fox News talk show hosts and Rush Limbaugh, and the erratic cries of, "I want my country back", are all symptomatic of a philosophical resolve to not only challenge forward progress of-the country, but to vehemently fight to return America back to the "good ole days." The vivid picture of a young African American male carrying an assault weapon and voicing opposition to universal health care reveals the persuasive and dangerous power of this argument.

Therefore, it is incumbent upon us as the people of God to be even more determined in our unwavering demand for substantive change in the political, social, and cultural landscape of this country. We must understand that the election of President Barack Obama was not a fluke of nature but the act of a wise and providential God. Moreover, because God holds the heart of the ruler, the ruler's vision for justice and equity shall yield a bountiful harvest in due season. Subsequently, this necessitates our steadfast support of this President, his family, administration and vision for the betterment of all the people, nationally and globally. We must actively participate in local, state and national politics by remaining vigilant in our voting efforts during off year elections and by inundating our elected representatives with letters, cards and calls supporting the objectives and policies of this President, with particular emphasis on the passage of universal health care with the public option. We must also voice our demand for appropriate use of stimulus funds by state and local government, reform of banking securities and mortgage systems, reduction of troops in Afghanistan and Iraq, modification of No Child Left Behind, and Criminal Justice reforms to reduce the incarceration of young black males. Lastly, we must continuously lift up our first family, the nation and world in prayer, for the prayers of the righteous availeth much.

Humbly submitted,

Committee on State of the Country

The Rev. Tan C. Moss, Committee Chair
Members: The Rev. Alton Coles, the Rev. Mark Griffin, the Rev. William Simmons, the Rev. Mandela Smith, the Rev. Roger Williams; Lay: Brothers. Eddie Hills, Robert Ford, James Rutledge; Sisters Mable Blanco, Ethel James, Marva Sampson, and Penelope Wilson

Bishop McKinley Young, Presiding Prelate
Dr. Dorothy Jackson Young, Supervisor of Missions

8. GREATER FORT WORTH DISTRICT PLANNING MEETING:

The Greater Fort Worth District Planning Meeting opened properly at 4:15 P.M. Friday, December 11th, 2009 at historic Allen Chapel AME Church in Fort Worth, Texas with Presiding Elder Johnny Ray Mitchell presiding.
Presiding Elder Mitchell assembled with the Pastors and Ministers of the District and asked for Devotion to be lead at the will of any pastor or minister. Rev. Darrell Turner, Pastor of Wesley Chapel-Fort Worth led us in singing “Have A Little Talk With Jesus”, Prayer was given by the Rev. Dr. Sherryl A. Matlock, pastor of St. James-Denton; the Scripture was read by the Rev. Darryl Ford, Pastor of Bethel-Lewisville.

Elder Mitchell greeted the Pastors and Ministers and thanked us for a successful year during the 2008-2009 Conference Year. He also stated how grateful he was to us and the Laity of the District and made mention that just as we were meeting in the sanctuary; the District Stewards at this time were also meeting in the lower unit of the church; and that the Lay Organization and other Component Groups would be meeting tomorrow morning. He also stated that he was looking forward to another successful year this Conference Year because he know and believe that with God all things are possible. He presented us to the District’s new theme for the year: “God’s Favor without a Doubt”. He reminded us that we are favored by God.

After discussing important information with the Pastors and Ministers; Elder Mitchell introduced the new Pastors on the District. Present at the time were Rev. Lonnie Newman, Pastor of St. Stephen-Fort Worth, and Rev. Victor Ortiz, Pastor of Greater Johnson Chapel-Ferris.

At 7:10 P.M. the Opening Worship Service began with the Dean of the District, Rev. Darrell Turner serving as Worship Leader and Host Pastor, Rev. George Willis, III leading the Conference in the Call to Worship. Various pastors across the district participated on program. The music for the night was provided by historic Allen Chapel and Wesley Chapel Choirs and the Baker Knights Male Chorus of Baker Chapel.

The sermon was delivered by the Rev. Gregory Forte’, Pastor of Bethel-Gainesville. Rev. Forte’s Text was Proverbs 3:5-6. His Subject was “In Times like These, Trust God”. Rev. Forte’ told us that in spite of the condition of the economy we need to trust God. He reminded us that God can and will supply all of our needs; that God has a resource bank that never becomes empty. He said that if we our homes are foreclosed on; God has many mansions and He will supply shelter for us; if our cars are repossessed, God will supply us transportation of some kind. He told us that God would not allow us to go hungry because he is the owner of the cattle of a thousand hills. He also told us that God would take care of our mental, emotional, social, physical and spiritual needs.

The congregation was receptive to the message and witnessed to the Glory of God by responding with; “Yes Lord, God is good, Thank you Jesus, Glory to God, Amen, etc…”

Announcements were given by the District Secretary, the Rev. Beverly Washington. The Benediction was given by the Rev. Greg Forte’.

At the close of the Opening Worship Service everyone present was treated to a Welcome Reception in the lower unit of the church hosted and provided by Presiding Elder Johnny Ray Mitchell and First Lady DeLois Evans-Mitchell. The District continued to feast spiritually as well as physically and fellowshipped and witnessed to the goodness of God.

On Saturday morning at 7:30 A.M. the Culinary Staff of historic Allen Chapel blessed the District with a very appetizing and filling breakfast.

From 8:30 A.M.-10:30 A.M. the District Missionaries, Women in Ministry and Lay Organization met simultaneously to plan their work for the year.

At 10:30 A.M. Elder Mitchell once again called the District to order. He presented Rev. Dr. Cornelius, Pastor at Bethel Temple who presented Dr. Benjamin E. Curry, (H1N1 Education Specialist) with Tarrant County Public Health who presented a Power Point Presentation on Swine Flu (how to prevent it and/or how to overcome it).

The District Component Groups gave their Annual Reports and Elder Mitchell began the Business Session. He called for the District Secretary, Rev. Beverly Washington. Rev. Washington called the Roll of Pastors and Ministers, Licentiates, Evangelists, Exhorters and Local Church Delegates.

Elder Mitchell presented the District with the District Organization and Calendar for the year. At the close of the Business Session Elder Mitchell once again presented the new Pastors on the District. They were Rev. Ava Gaines-Armstrong-Arlington, Rev. George O’neal, Jr.-Forest Hill-Ft. Worth, Rev. Victor Ortiz-Greater Johnson Chapel-Ferris, and Rev. Lonnie Newman-St. Stephen-Ft. Worth.

At 1:40 P.M. the Closing Worship began with an awesome Praise Team consisting of the Rev. Court’ney Martin, the Rev. Mae H. Smith, and Evangelist Tina Wallace-Ray invoking the Holy Spirit and setting the tone for Worship. The Rev. Dr. Cornelius Hudson served as Worship Leader and led us in the Call to Celebration. Once again, various pastors across the District served as Worship Participants. The music throughout the Worship Service was provided by Praise Team. The Preacher of the Hour was the Rev. Phillip Randle, pastor of Greater Johnson Chapel-Amarillo.

Rev. Randle used for a Text; Psalms 35:1-9. His Subject was “The Enemy”. Rev. Randle told us that David had enemies; but he also had an optimistic mind. He said that David was going through some things just as we are going through some things. He told us that the “people of God” has taken on the spirit of the world. He told us that what is happening to God’s people is that we are forgetting to read the Bible and because of that we have allowed our minds to get messed up. He told us we need Jesus; that having Jesus in our lives could and would make a difference. He told us that we to have an enemy named “Satan” and we need to get an optimistic mind just like David.

The congregation was in agreement with Rev. Randle and the “Word of God” as was testified by many standing on their feet and crying out praises unto God.

Elder Mitchell ended this spirit filled meeting by installing the District Officers for the 2009-2010 Conference Year.

At the adjournment of the meeting we again were physically fed by the Culinary Staff of historic Allen Chapel.

Reported by the Rev. Dr. Sherryl A. Matlock, Director of Public Relations

9. LIVING BELOW OUR MEANS, WISE AND GENEROUS GIVING; CREDIT AND DEBT MANAGEMENT:

A stewardship conference entitled, “Living below Our Means, Wise and Generous Giving; Credit and Debt Management” was held on Friday and Saturday, October, 16 - 17, 2009. The conference was hosted by Union African Methodist Episcopal Church, Allentown, New Jersey where the Rev. Carl E. Wade is the pastor and the Rev. Dr. Robert C. Wade serves as the presiding elder.

The Conference opened with devotion led by Evangelist Joyce Lewis-Miles and her dear friend Evangelist Wanda Titus from Statesboro, Georgia. Presiding Elder Robert C. Wade, called the 113th Session of the Camden-Trenton District Conference to Order. The Rev. Bertha Montgomery was elected Secretary, Sister Marcia Cornish and Sister Marilyn Whittington were elected reporters, and Brother Gregory S. Smith was elected Marshall.

This year’s theme; Stewardship: Living below Our Means, Wise and Generous Giving; Credit and Debt Management. The speaker Mr. Charles W. Buffington, Jr., owner of C. W. Buffington Associate’s and author of “He said it! I Did It! Finding Financial Freedom” was introduced by Pastor Terrell Person of the Historic Jacob’s Chapel, Mt. Laurel NJ.

Mr. Buffington’s PowerPoint presentation was titled “Raising the Faith of God’s People.”

Mr. Buffington asked the pastors to look at the tithes and offerings of their churches; knowing they are in need of significant gifts and offerings. Resources of all churches must be increased in order to do ministry. He told the pastors they must introduce concepts and principals to inspire personal family financial health. He said, “The mark of poor Stewardship is FLIP –“Fear, Lust, Ignorance and Pride.” God is looking for FAT – “Faithful, Available and Teachable” people.

Our goal should be financial freedom with funds to support the faith, being able to meet all obligations with cash for needs and wants with no financial worry yet working for life’s purpose versus working for a living.

Mr. Buffington gave the conference an illustration of a family whose debt was out of control. They did not tithe; had low savings, low retirement, a high percentage of wants vs. needs and the conference agreed they were in need of prayer. Does this sound like your household? The solution, for this critical situation: Pray for commitment to lowering debt; pay your tithe; cut non-essentials; find additional work; negotiate debit with creditors; sell assets to raise cash; build your savings and remember the tithe is not an option.

This workshop was just a sampling of what can be done in your church and home; these methods are tried and true. Presiding Elder Wade, challenged the pastors to seek Mr. Buffington to give this workshop in their churches.

The opening Noonday Hour of Power and Holy Communion worship Service music was rendered by Brother Jasper Daniels III, accompanied by the conference choir. The Rev. John B Wingate, pastor of St. James AME Church in Thorofare, New Jersey sang the sermonic hymn “My Soul is anchored in the Lord.”

The Rev. John C. Reynolds of Macedonia AME Church, Camden New Jersey opened his message titled, “Holding on In spite of It All”; his scriptural text came from Genesis 32:9. He sang a stirring rendition of “I Know I’ve Been Changed.” In his lesson, he explained “you’ve got to face your fears to fix your fears,” when you need the Lord on your side, don’t forget to pray.” His final message, “hold on, everything is going to be alright.” The Sacrament of Holy Communion was served by chief celebrant, Presiding Elder Robert C. Wade and pastors served ad attending celebrants.

After feasting on the Word, the Conference Members feasted on a tasty lunch of soup, sandwiches and desserts provide by the members of Union AME Church; what a blessing.

The afternoon session resumed with Mr. Buffington, who gave illustrations on how to request lower interest rates when contacting creditors; followed by a testimony given by a District Steward from Jacob’s Chapel AME Church whose church contracted Mr. Buffington to handle their Capital Campaign and trained their members in this workshop. She testified how her family contacted their creditors and successfully negotiated lower interest rates and payoffs giving them more financial freedom. Presiding Elder Wade called for Stewards Delegates to give their reports before breaking for dinner.

Friday Evening, District Conference Service was led by the Camden-Trenton Lay Organization, music and choir was led by Bro. Jasper Daniels, III.

Sister Prudence Hope Wade, Consultant for the District, presented the preacher, her husband; the Rev. Dr. Robert C. Wade, Presiding Elder of the Camden-Trenton District. His message was entitled: “Fig Tree with Nothing but Leaves; the scripture text was taken from St. Matthew 21:18-22.

Presiding Elder Wade explained that Jesus detected there were some wrong-doing going on; people cheating, and being dishonest with God. One thing about Jesus there is a divine side and a natural side. There were three points the Elder gave; Point one: The fig tree was a fruitless fig tree, it stood alone. The tree was full of leaves but has no figs. People have a lot going on, on the outside, but on the inside, they are fruitless. Point two: The fig tree was a hypocrite and had not made any progress. It gave promises of early signs of fruit. The tree is a clear example of human hypocrites. Still lifeless, but the tree had leaves and no fruit. There are some people in the church who call themselves Christians who can fool people, but cannot fool God. The tree is a human hypocrite, making false pretenses. Point three: A worthless tree what good is it without the figs. It prevented other plants from growing. If we are not producing, we do not want others to produce. We will resent others that have the faith the Lord... He continued on saying, “There is some good news.” When the disciples noticed the tree, they saw all the leaves there. The tree had dried up, it had died. Jesus said it would never bear any fruit anymore because they were not productive. Jesus said it is all about faith. The Presiding Elder Wade continued by saying “stop pretending and act real in our churches. Get real with the Lord and do what the Lord says. Tell the Lord I am here and I am not going anywhere until you bless me. When you bless me, then I will move up a little higher. Don’t let anybody turn you around. The fig tree was nothing but leaves, in our churches, we ought to be producing.

The Invitation to Christian Discipleship was given by Presiding Elder Wade followed by Worship with Gifts. Closing remarks were offered by Sister Evelyn Collins, Camden-Trenton Lay Organization President. The Doxology was sung by the choir and congregation, the Lay Benediction was read together and the 113th session of the Camden-Trenton District Conference was closed with prayer by Rev. Dr. Robert C. Wade.

The second day of the 113th Session Camden-Trenton District Conference began with a devotional period led by the District Evangelists.

The business session began with the reading of the minutes by the District Conference secretary Reverend Bertha Montgomery. Presiding Elder Wade summarized yesterday's session focusing on our fantastic workshop by Deacon Charles W. Buffington, Jr. and said, “The churches should utilize the information to improve the finances of our church members. If we get our personal finances together it will help each individual church financially.”

Presiding Elder Wade stated that our young people are our future and we must get them involved and get them to come to our district conferences. We need to make it appealing to everyone and changes to the way we conduct our conferences must be a priority for us. He said, “We need to be creative and develop new ideas. The seniors must impart to the young people what we have learned and bring them along so that they will want to be a part of this great African Methodist Episcopal Church.”

The Memoirs was conducted by the Reverend Terrell Person. Reverend Carl E. Wade reminded us, as the Apostle Paul stated, "For those who sleep in Jesus are not dead." Our prayer was led by the Rev. Person and we were asked to recite the names of those who had gone to Glory and to say something about them. The Reverend Cecil Bonds sang, "Nobody Knows the Trouble I See, Nobody but Jesus.

Our District Consultant, Mrs. Prudence Hope Wade did a presentation on "Hosting the New Jersey Annual Conference 2010. She opened up with a fairy tale back to when we, "One Church in Twenty-Four Locations" hosted the 134th Annual Conference. She brought us to the present as we are to host the 138th Annual Conference from April 12 – 18, 2010. The venue for this conference will be at the Crown Plaza in Cherry Hill, New Jersey. And again we will be "One Church in Twenty-Four Locations.” Presiding Elder Wade called for the Committee on Admissions and Order presented the Evangelists Henry Hill, Fulton and Wingate, candidates for local ministry. Presiding Elder Wade questioned each one to make sure that they were ready to become Local Ministers.

The worship leader for our Pastors' Spouses, Widows, Widowers, plus PKs, WMS, and YPD, Noonday Worship Service was the Reverend Darlene J. Reynolds. The District Conference choir blessed us with worship in song. We were blessed by a solo from Evangelist Titus from the Georgia. The preacher of the hour was the Rev. M. Shawn Bradley, Bethlehem AMEC, Burlington, New Jersey. His sermon came from Galatians 6:7, "Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows." He encouraged his listeners to make sure they sow a good seed and went on to say that we need the Missionary Society.

The 113th Session Camden-Trenton District Conference ended with a delicious lunch in the Fellowship Hall of Union African Methodist Episcopal Church.

10. WOMEN'S PRAYER CONFERENCE IN TORONTO LEAVES LASTING MARK:

The Fourth Episcopal District of the African Methodist Episcopal Church hosted the International Women’s Prayer Convocation in Toronto was led by Episcopal Supervisor Cecelia Williams Bryant and hosted by the women of Grant AME Church in Toronto.

Hundreds of women traveled to Toronto, Canada in search of an experience that would help grown their prayer life and increase their relationship with God. From as far as the countries of Africa, the Islands and various parts of the United States, the women of African Methodism gathered in Toronto for a retreat that was orchestrated by Senior Episcopal Supervisor Cecelia Williams Bryant.

It was a powerful image and movement of God, as the prayers of women visibly changed and moved even those who happened to have stumbled upon groups praying in various places in the hotel, down on the lake or worshipping and praying through the silent movements of Tai Chi.

For the week, the women were led by seven prayer initiatives:

The Seven Prayer Initiatives of the International Women’s Prayer Convocation

In Gratitude to God and with unwavering faith in the Redeeming Love of Jesus Christ, Women around the world seek the Power of the Holy Spirit As together we pray to the Lord –

I. That each of us will awaken to our Divine Purpose
- That communion with God will be our daily vocation
- That Grace, truth and compassion will direct our paths and
- That God will be glorified in the sharing of the Gospel.

II. May God be merciful to hear our prayers for the healing of the earth and may our hearts be united in repentance for the excesses of humanity that diminish biodiversity, create pollution, toxic waste, deforestation and a shortage of potable water.

III. May God hear our Lamentations for the violence perpetrated against women and children – international, civic, cultural and domestic. Let us pray to the Lord for reconciliation and peace with justice between warring parties and an end to all forms of torture: emotional, spiritual and physical.

IV. May God show us the way to a New World Economic Order in which persons will have meaningful work and just compensation; where governments transform policies and practices that perpetrate unemployment, homelessness, illiteracy and poverty.

V. By solemn, consecrated fasting and prayer, let us travail before the Lord for miraculous healings in the Name of the Lord Jesus Christ. May the Spirit of the Lord raise up an army of health-care professionals and intercessors to the sick worldwide.

VI. Daily let us seek the Lord to bless and restore family life. May our marriages flow in Kingdom Glory. May our parenting be endued with wisdom, compassion and holiness. May our children thrive. And may our elders be honored, encouraged and protected with each passing day.

VII. May God grant to each woman a “Sistah” Sabbath for her appointed time of rest, refreshing and Grace in the Presence of the Lord.

During this conference the women hosted a Prayer Breakfast that raised $15,000 for My Sister's Keeper, as well as thousands of dollars for initiatives in Africa and the Islands.

View more pictures from the conference. It was one you did not want to miss. It's safe to say that everyone left transformed and energized to face the world:

The Soiree Firm, LLC
FamousAmos Music, LLC

11. THE CULTIVATING CHRISTIANS:

*The Rev. N.T. Pitts

One of Webster’s definitions of the term, “cultivate” is “to foster the growth of by tilling or by labor and care. I feel that this definition is appropriate to be used when it comes to Christian growth. We are admonished to “grow in grace.” - Second Peter 3:18

When a farmer plants his crop he must care for it, must water and fertilizes it so that the crop can grow. Even when he sets out seedlings the farmer must fertilize, water and weed the crop so that the crop may be productive; that process is called cultivating. If the crop is not cultivated it withers and dies or it grows wild.

Before we talk about the cultivation of a Christian, the individual must first touch bases with the five C’s.

First, you become “Convicted”; second, you become “Convinced; third, you become “Converted”; fourth, you become “Committed”’ and after commitment, you must become “Contagious.”

The problem some churches is that they take in members, put them in a class, inform them of their financial obligations and the new members sit, wither and “die.”

We must be reminded that the process of cultivation is not just going to church every Sunday and listening to sermons; it is much more than that.

Unlike the farmer who plants, cultivates and harvest, the church takes them in and they are constantly in a state of cultivation, and Jesus will do the harvesting.

Cultivating is maintaining a prayerful life, meditating daily, walking circumspectly in the light, feasting on the “daily bread,” reading the Bible and exercising temperance. The cultivating Christian should always be in a thankful mode.

There is another side in the process of cultivation. “Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you. But rejoice inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ’s sufferings, that, when his glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy.” - I Peter 4: 12-13 What Peter was conveying is we are cultivated even by the vicissitudes of life.

The sun does not always shine on the farmer’s crop. Rain, strong winds and storms will come in the midst of the cultivation cycle.
As Christians, we never complete cultivating; it is a constant ongoing process.

Some crops are difficult to cultivate and some of us and our parishioners are difficult to cultivate. It takes special and consistent care in order to cultivate some of us.

As the Farmer sometimes rotates his crop to get better productivity, it may be wise for us, church members, to try rotating where we serve.

Some boast of being on a local church board for a number of years, but they don’t seem to be growing. Longevity on a church board or committee is not a true measure of cultivation. We must not become stagnant and we must not abandon those who are difficult to cultivate.

There may be a need for you to get off that steward board, get off the trustees Board, the finance committee, the choir or give up the church school class and serve elsewhere. Whatever it takes to enhance your cultivation you should do it. As I grew up, I saw my father rotate some of his crops with great success. Why not try rotating people who need rotating or rotate yourself; you may like it.

The questions are: what are you doing to cultivate your life as a Christian? Are you consciously participating in the cultivating process? Are you difficult to cultivate? Do you see a need a “rotation”?

Find your niche and see if you may enhance your cultivation. Just keep in mind that adversity plays a vital role in our cultivation.

And, don’t forget, Christians are just recycled Sinners.

*The Rev. N.T. Pitts (Ptargar@AOL.Com), teacher, counselor, humorist, and author, is a retired AME pastor who resides in Eatonville, Florida

12. CLERGY FAMILY CONGRATULATORY ANNOUNCEMENTS:

- Congratulations to Lieutenant Junior Grade Nancy Faith Reese, U.S. Navy, Chaplain Corps! Chaplain Reese was commissioned as the Navy's newest AME Chaplain earlier this month and has received orders to report to Officer Development School (ODS) in Newport, RI. After completion of ODS, she will report for further training at the Navy Basic Chaplain's School at Fort Jackson, South Carolina. Her permanent duty assignment will be at the Spiritual Fitness Center at Naval Air Station Jacksonville, Florida. She is the Navy's Newest AME Chaplain

Congratulatory responses can be emailed to: nancy.reeseccpo@gmail.com

- Bridge Street AME Church in Brooklyn, New York, is proud to announce that we have been awarded the "Calling Congregations" grant through the Fund for Theological Education for a youth project titled "Equipping the Body for Service."

The Rev. Valerie Cousin, Project Director, along with two other members of the church will attend a grant orientation on January 28-29, 2010 in Atlanta, Georgia.

The eighteen-month project will span from May 1, 2010 - November 1, 2011.

The Rev. Valerie Cousin:
Revvalcousin@aol.com

The Rev. David Cousin:
Pastorcousin@aol.com

- Leadership California's Board of Directors and the over 1,000 women graduates of Leadership California's Issues & Trends Program selected Lady Dezie Woods-Jones, to receive their "2010 Trailblazer Award". This special award was established to recognize exceptional women whose lifetime career and commitment have had an impact on unfolding current events of the day. The award will be presented on May 3, 2010 at the Palace Hotel in San Francisco, California. Lady Dezie, Former Vice-Mayor of Oakland, California serves as the President of the California Conference M-SWAWO + PK's and she is married to Rev. Carl L. Jones, Pastor of Carter Memorial AME Church, Fresno, California.

Congratulatory responses can be emailed to Lady Dezie Woods-Jones: deziewj@aol.com

Other contact information:

(559) 822-4378 Home
(510) 499-1433 Cell
(559) 822-4379 Fax

- Congratulations to the Reverend Dr. Michael Henson, Pastor of Saint Luke African Methodist Episcopal Church, Hueytown, Alabama on receiving his Doctorate of Ministry Degree on Friday December 18, 2009 from United Theological Seminary, Dayton, Ohio.

Please send all congratulatory notices, well wishes, and etc to: michaelahenson@bellsouth.net

- Kinette K. Cager received approval of her thesis from her committee and will be awarded the Master of Liberal Studies degree from the University of Southern California next week. Mrs. Cager, 2nd Vice President of the 5th Episcopal District Minister's Spouses, Widows and Widowers Organization + PK'S, is the wife of Rev. John E. Cager III, Senior Pastor of 2nd AME Church, Los Angeles, CA. Congratulations may be sent to:

Mrs. Kinette Cager
c/o Second AME Church
5500 S. Hoover Street
Los Angeles, CA 90037

Or congratulations may be emailed to: kinetteandjohn@sbcglobal.net

- Dr. J. Arthur Holmes Jr., son of the late Edith A. Holmes and the late Dr. J. Arthur Holmes, Sr., former pastor of Bethel AME Church in Columbia, South Carolina for 40 years, has married Ms. Teresa J. Craft daughter of Johnny C. Jones and Mary Helen Jones-Walker both of Columbia, South Carolina. The ceremony took place on August 8, 2009. The liturgists for the service were Bishop Frederick Calhoun James (retired) and Dr. Ronnie E. Brailsford, Pastor of Bethel AME Church Columbia, South Carolina. The service took place at Bethel AME Church and the reception was held at the Clarion Hotel. The groom is the Assistant Principal at Alcorn Middle School and a Licentiate Minister at Bethel AME Church both in Columbia, South Carolina. The bride is the Guidance Director at Fairfield Career and Technology Center in Winnsboro, South Carolina, and an Adjunct Professor of Counseling at the Webster University Columbia Campus. The couple resides in Columbia, South Carolina.

Well wishes can be sent to: tholmes@fairfield.k12.sc.us

13. EPISCOPAL FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

Annetta Louise Gomez-Jefferson, daughter of Bishop Joseph Gomez, 67th Elected and Consecrated Bishop of the AME Church, passed away at her home in Wooster, Ohio. She was a retired Theater Professor at the College of Wooster and author of several books; her most famous works are The Sage of Tawawa; Reverdy Cassius Ransom 1860-1959 and In Darkness with God: The Life of Joseph Gomez a Bishop in the African Methodist Episcopal Church. Reverend Brandon Davis, a Third District pastor, reports she was an inspirational person to him and very supportive of his ministry and college education.

The funeral has been held for Annetta Louise Gomez-Jefferson, daughter of Bishop Joseph Gomez, 67th Elected and Consecrated Bishop of the AME Church.

Expressions of sympathy may be sent to:

The family of Annetta L. Gomez- Jefferson
2631 Tanglewood Drive
Wooster, Ohio 44691-1826
Phone: (330) 345-5582

Expressions of sympathy may also be emailed to: GomezJefferson@aol.com

Memorial contributions may be made in lieu of flowers to: Hospice and Palliative Care of Greater Wayne County, 2525 Back Orrville RD, Wooster OH, 44691, and Save the Children c/o/Joseph Jefferson, 2631 Tanglewood Dr., Wooster Ohio, 44691.

14. CLERGY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

We regret to announce the passing of Mrs. Eva Hammond, the mother of the Reverend Ray A. Hammond, pastor of Bethel AME Church in Boston, Massachusetts.

The funeral has been held.

Expressions of sympathy may be sent to:

The Reverend Ray A. Hammond and Family
Bethel AME Church
215 Forest Hills Street
Boston, Massachusetts 02130-3302

15. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

We regret to announce the passing of Mrs. Elaine H. Bonds, the mother of the Reverend Cecil Bonds, pastor of Mt. Zion AME Church in Riverton, NJ (Camden/Trenton District, New Jersey Annual Conference). The following information has been provided regarding funeral arrangements.

The funeral has been held.

Expressions of sympathy may be sent to
The Reverend Cecil Bonds
17 Paris Lane
Avenel, NJ 07001
Email: Cbonds9530@aol.com

15. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

We regret to inform you of the passing of Mr. Christopher Basden, the father of the Reverend Dr. Pedro Basden, pastor of Quinn Chapel A.M.E. Church, Louisville, Kentucky. Mr. Christopher Basden passed away on Monday, December 14, 2009.

Service arrangements for Mr. Christopher Basden are as follows:

Funeral:

Saturday, January 2, 2010
St. Paul Baptist Church
Bernard Road
Mailing Address: P.O. Box SS 5584
City: Nassau, Bahamas
Phone: (1-242) 324-2371
Fax: (1-242) 364-8391

Expressions of sympathy may be sent to:

The Reverend Dr. Pedro K. Basden
10005 Timberwood Circle
Louisville, Kentucky 40223

Phone: 502-244-0302
Phone: 502-472-7468
Email: pbasden@yahoo.com

16. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

It is with regret that we announce the death of the Rev. Kevin Cooper, pastor of Trinity AME Church, West Point, Mississippi. Rev. Cooper, 38, passed away on Tuesday, December 15, 2009 in Memphis, Tennessee.

The funeral has been held.

Condolences may be sent to his wife:

Mrs. LaShaun Cooper
4841 Shandy Lane
Memphis, Tennessee 38125
(901) 309-0004
LSHWNGPSN@BELLSOUTH.NET

The funeral has been held.

17. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

With sorrow we announce the death on December 9, 2009 of Mr. Michael Wayne Watkins, brother of Mrs. Palmer Reed, who is the spouse of the Reverend A.D. Reed II, pastor of Saint Matthew AME Church in Midway, Kentucky.

Earthly remains are entrusted to:
A.D. Porter and Sons Funeral Home
1300 West Chestnut St
Louisville, Kentucky 40203
Phone: (502) 587-9678
http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/louisville/obituary.aspx?page=lifestory&pid=137306816

The funeral has been held.

Contact Information:
The Reverend A.D. and Mrs. Palmer Reed
Phone: (502) 327-7079
Email: reedii@bellsouth.net

18. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

The Eighth Episcopal District regrets to announce the passing of Mrs. Lou E. Allen, the mother of the Reverend Thomas B. Brown, pastor of Union Bethel A.M.E. Church, New Orleans, Louisiana.

The funeral has been held.

Expressions of sympathy may be sent to:

The Rev. Thomas B. Brown
1780 Monterrey Blvd.
Baton Rouge, Louisiana 70815-8826
Phone: (225) 924-6780
Cell: (504) 615-9897

Electronic messages of condolence may be emailed to: thomarybrown@yahoo.com

19. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

We regret to share news of the passing of Sister Curtis Lora Davis. Sister Davis passed on Wednesday, December 9, 2009. She is the sister in law of the Rev. Ja'Nice Davis, who is on staff at Bethel Memorial AME Church, San Diego, California; Senior Pastor, Rev. Anthony L. Hughes.

The funeral has been held.

Condolences may be sent to:

The Rev. Ja'Nice Davis Winston
5480 Encina Drive
San Diego, California 92114
Email: revjaniceaka@sbcglobal.net

- Chasity Marie Bell, daughter of Presiding Elder and Mrs. David E. Reddick, Dothan-Eufaula District, Southeast Alabama Conference, Ninth Episcopal District; Bishop James L. Davis, Servant Bishop.

Congratulatory responses can be emailed to her parents at: ladyallie1@centurytel.net

20. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

We regret to share news of the passing of Brother Sammie L. Raven, the oldest male member of Cobb Bethel AME Church in Atlanta, Georgia. Brother Raven passed on Tuesday, December 8, 2009.

He was the brother of the Rev. Johnny Raven, a retired Presiding Elder of the South Georgia Conference, Sixth Episcopal District.

The funeral has been held.

In lieu of flowers a scholarship fund has been established in his honor.

Please mail donations to:

The Raven Family
P. O. Box 310661
Atlanta, Georgia 31131

Online Guest book:
http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/atlanta/obituary.aspx?n=sammie-l-raven&pid=137063134


21. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

We regret to announce the passing of Rev. Annabelle Freeland, a retired pastor from the New Jersey Annual Conference. The following information has been provided regarding funeral arrangements.

The funeral has been held.

Expressions of sympathy may be sent to her husband and daughter:
Mr. Lloyd Freeland and Mrs. Toni Spauldings
49 Longwood Drive
Aiken, SC 29803

22. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

We are saddened to announce the passing of the Rev. Terrell J. Shepherd, Sr. on Saturday, December 5, 2009. Rev. Shepherd was a retired 10th Episcopal District pastor and had resided for several years in a Houston, Texas Nursing Facility.

The funeral has been held.

Condolences may be sent to:

Mrs. Betty Shepherd-Harrison (Daughter)
3906 Holder Forest Drive
Houston, Texas 77088

23. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

We regret to announce news of the passing of Sister Irene Gardner, the grandmother of the Rev. Dr. Michael L. Martin, pastor of Saint Peter A.M.E. Church in Tunica, Mississippi.

The funeral has been held.

Expressions of sympathy may be sent to the family of Sister Irene Gardner c/o the funeral home or church (addresses above).

Or to:
Rev. Dr. Michael L. Martin, Pastor
St. Peter A.M.E. Church
P. O. Box 2717
Tunica, Mississippi 38676
Phone: (662) 363-2734

Expressions of sympathy may also be emailed to Pastor Martin: mmartin@deltastate.edu

24. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

With regret, the Eighth Episcopal District shares news of the passing of Brother Jerome Castine, the husband of Reverend Richelle Castine, pastor of St. Mary A.M.E. Church in Addis, Louisiana, and the father of Eighth Episcopal District YPD President, Brother Ritney Castine. Brother Jerome Castine passed on Tuesday, December 8, 2009.

The funeral has been held.

Expressions of sympathy may be sent to:

The family of Brother Jerome Castine
P.O. Box 171
Napoleonville, Louisiana 70390
Phone: (985) 413-2577

Or condolences may be emailed to Reverend Richelle Castine: RVLEWCAS@yahoo.com

25. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

The Eighth Episcopal District regrets to announce the passing of Mr. Obery L. Holmes, the brother of Presiding Elder James D. Holmes of the Greenville-Greenwood District of the North Mississippi Conference, Eighth Episcopal District.

The funeral has been held.

Expressions of Sympathy may be sent to:

Presiding Elder James D. Holmes
7374 Hedgerow Cove
Southaven, Mississippi 38671-8764
Phone: 662-349-4262
Email: jamesdholmes@bellsouth.net

26. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

We regret to inform you of the passing of Mrs. Edna Stewart, the mother of the Reverend Hezekiah Stewart, pastor of Moody Chapel A.M.E. Church, Little Rock, Arkansas. Mrs. Edna Stewart entered into eternal rest on Monday, December 7, 2009.

The funeral has been held.

Expressions of sympathy may be sent c/o the family of Mrs. Edna Stewart to Hilton's Mortuary Inc. and to St. Peter AME Church. (Addresses above)

Or to:

The family of Mrs. Edna Stewart
1624 Lester Street
North Charleston, South Carolina 29405-4541

Memorial messages may be posted at: www.hiltonsmortuary.com

Or emailed to Mrs. Hezekiah Stewart (Diane Stewart): Diane.Stewart@navtel.com

The Rev. Hezekiah Stewart can be reached at 501-563-9842 (c) or


27. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

We regret to announce the passing of Mrs. Melzie Peterson, the mother of Presiding Elder Larry Stanwyck Hinton of the Northern District-North Carolina Conference, 2nd Episcopal District; Bishop Adam Jefferson Richardson, Jr., Presiding Prelate.

The funeral has been held.

Expressions of Sympathy may be sent to:
Presiding Elder Larry S. Hinton and Family
P.O. Box 335
Clayton, North Carolina 27528

Or

17 Nicklaus Way
Clayton, NC 27520

919-359-0575 Home
919-359-8381 Office
757-761-3368 Cell
Email: landjhinton@embarqmail.com

28. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

We regret to announce the passing of Mrs. Joan Byrd, the mother of the Reverend Lindoria B. Felder, and the mother-in law of the Reverend Nigal D. Felder pastor of St. Paul A.M.E. Church in Louisville, Kentucky.

The funeral has been held.

Cards may be sent to the following:

Mr. Percy Byrd
6500 Morton Place
Temple Hills, Maryland 20744

Or

The Rev. Lindoria B. Felder
211 Marksfield Circle
Louisville, Kentucky 40222


29. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICES AND CONGRATULATORY ANNOUNCEMENTS PROVIDED BY:

The Clergy Family Information Center
Bishop Carolyn Tyler Guidry, Chair
Commission on Social Action

Mrs. Ora L. Easley, Administrator
AMEC Clergy Family Information Center
Email: Amespouses1@bellsouth.net
Phone: (615) 837-9736
Voice Mail: (615) 833-6936
Fax: (615) 833-3781
Cell: (615) 403-7751

30. CONDOLENCES TO THE BEREAVED FROM THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER:

The Chair of the Commission on Publications, the Right Reverend Richard Franklin Norris; 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 CHRISTIAN RECORDER ONLINE ENGLISH EDITION (12/5/09)

Bishop Richard Franklin Norris - Chair, Commission on Publications
The Reverend Dr. Johnny Barbour, Jr., Publisher
The Reverend Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III, the 20th Editor, The Christian Recorder

Editor’s Note: The Editor will be attending the General Conference Commission, CONVO XIII, AME Re Insurance Board Committee on Right-sizing of the General Conference Delegation and the General Officers’ Retreat. The next issue of The Christian Recorder online will be published on December 18, 2009. For Information about the General Conference Commission and CONVO XII see AME Official Website: http://www.ame-church.com/

1. EDITORIAL – 11TH EPISCOPAL DISTRICT POST PLANNING MEETING AND DEDICATION OF CUMMINGS YOUNG TEMPLE; AN EXPERIENCE OF CARIBBEAN MINISTRY AND HOSPITALITY:

Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III,
The 20th Editor, The Christian Recorder

What an experience in Freeport, Bahama at the 11th Episcopal District Post Conference Planning Meeting where the Right Rev. McKinley Young is the presiding prelate and Dr. Dorothy Jackson Young is the Episcopal Supervisor! I must be living good and walking in favor because several weeks earlier, I attended the 13th Episcopal District Planning Meeting that was held October 27 – 31, 2009. The 13th Episcopal District Planning Meeting was “off the hook, too!” Bishop Vashti Murphy McKenzie is the Presiding Prelate of the 13th Episcopal District and Mr. Stan McKenzie is the Episcopal Supervisor. The 13th Episcopal District Meeting was well-planned, well-attended, educational, had outstanding preaching, and great singing. The worship services and the sessions were timely, which allowed for meaningful fellowship.

I left the 13th Episcopal District Planning Meeting on a spiritual high, looking forward to my travel to preach and make a presentation at the 11th Episcopal District Post Conference Planning Meeting three weeks later. The Post Conference Planning Meeting was held November 19-21, 2009 at the Radisson – Our Lucaya Resort in Freeport, Grand Bahama.

My wife, Dr. Charlotte and I, flew from Nashville, Tennessee to Charlotte Douglas International Airport in North Carolina. When we arrived at our departure gate, we saw folks who looked like they were members of the African Methodist Episcopal Church, and they were. We immediate made and renewed acquaintances and the issues of the AME Church were our main topics of conversation. I always have a warm feeling when I meet fellow AMEs. Meeting fellow AMEs reminded me that we are indeed a connectional church. The issues and concerns of AME Churches in Florida, South Carolina, Indiana or Kentucky and everywhere else are exactly the same.

Shortly after our arrival in Charlotte, Bishop William P. DeVeaux, Presiding Prelate of the 6th Episcopal District and the Rev. Ronald Slaughter, pastor of St. Paul AME Church in Macon, Georgia joined us and we were soon on the short flight to Freeport. When we arrived in Freeport, the airport was full of AME’s arriving from all areas of Florida. One could feel the excitement in the air. While talking in the airport in Charlotte someone expressed concern that the attendance might be off because the meeting was being held in Freeport. If the large numbers of AMEs going through customs was any indication, there was no need to worry about attendance. The worship services and the training sessions confirmed that the 11th Episcopal District was present in large numbers of youth, young adults and adults; all ages were represented. College students from the mainland of the United States were present and I thought how blessed and fortunate those young college students were to be able to attend a meeting in another country, while in college. When folks my age were college most of us never had a thought of traveling to an area outside of the United States.

Bishop McKinley Young and Supervisor Dorothy Jackson were gracious hosts and it was apparent that they, along with the 11th Episcopal District Post Conference Planning committee, worked hard to create an agenda and schedule that was conference-friendly. People were relaxed and free-time was strategically built into the schedule. The fellowship and camaraderie of the 11th District was heart-warming and I believe the schedule and conference location precipitated an atmosphere for fellowship. I found myself becoming envious because I began to think about how wonderful it would be if some of the other districts in the AME Church had some of the Caribbean islands as a part of their districts. Anyway, I thought how blessed the 11th District was to have some of the islands of Caribbean a part of its district.

The theme of the Post Conference Planning Meeting was a “Great Past – Greater Future an Incredible Call to Serve.” The teaching moment was a PowerPoint presentation and discussion entitled, “Technology, Media – an Added Model for Ministry” led by the Editor of The Christian Recorder. The Even Song meditation was also delivered by the Editor. The sermon was entitled, “What are You Doing with Your Gift” taken from Matthew 25: 14-30. Bishop McKinley Young was the worship leader. The music was led by the Rev. Kevin Desire and special music was provided by the Bahamian Conference Choir. The Rev. Desire and the Bahamian Conference Choir did an outstanding music tribute, which added to the spiritual flavor of the worship service. Presiding Elder Robert L. Mitchell presented Bishop McKinley Young.

The Rev. Leroy Kennon was the worship leader for the Thursday evening Post Conference Planning Worship Celebration. The Right Rev. William Phillips DeVeaux, Sr., Presiding Prelate of the 6th Episcopal District delivered the sermon; the Bahamian Conference Choir provided the worship music accompanied by the Rev. Kevin Desire, an outstanding and talented musician. The Rev. Jimmie Howard accompanied on the drums.

Participants in the service included the Rev. Howard Williamson, the Rev. Mary Robinson, the Rev. Jerome L. Denmark, the Rev. George T. Barkley, the Rev. Hartford Lee, the Rev. Ranford Patterson, the Rev, John L. Bodison, the Rev. Jimmy J. Thomson, the Rev. Jimmie B. Keel, and the Rev. Ralph L. Wilson.

The Right Rev. McKinley Young introduced the preacher, Bishop William Phillips DeVeaux. Bishop DeVeaux preached a dynamic, stirring and theologically sound sermon. The congregation was brought to their feet at the conclusion of his message, which was taken from Deuteronomy 6: 10-13; 6: 20-23; and 8:1-2. The title of his sermon was, “Bound for the Promised Land.” He encouraged his hearers to remember the blessings of God, to be faithful to the Word of God and to remember to share God’s Word with the next generation. Bishop DeVeaux emphasized that we, as preachers, teachers, laity and as a Church should not forget to proclaim the Word to the next generation. He pointed out that we often forget because we allow ourselves to get satisfied and settle for mediocrity. He said that we get satisfied in America and sometimes we forget the blessings of God and we forget to transmit the Word of God to the next generation.

The 11th Episcopal District Women’s Missionary Society Planning Meeting met on Friday morning followed by lunch.

The highlight of the 11th Episcopal District Post Conference Planning Meeting was the dedication of the Cummings Young Temple on Saturday Morning. The dedication was held following a march from the old worship facility to the new worship facility. The march was led by Bishop McKinley Young and Supervisor Dorothy Jackson Young, Pastor Clifford McKinney and other leaders of the 11th Episcopal District. The marchers were led by a band and by a police escort. The march-route was more than a mile and Bishop Young, Dr. Dorothy Young and many of the marchers marched in street shoes.

Cummings Young Temple AME Church

Cummings Young Temple AME Church was established on January 19, 1999 under the leadership of the Right Rev. Frank C. Cummings, Episcopal Supervisor Martha Cummings and the Rev. Dr. Leeomia Kelly, who was the Presiding Elder of the Freeport District.

The Rev. Herman Thompson was assigned as the first pastor. The church held it first service at the Police Fire Station Headquarters on Settlers Way in Freeport. Brother Allison Williams, a member of the AME Church, was responsible for the Police Fire Station and was instrumental in securing a venue for the new church to hold its worship services. The church later moved to a rented building on Queen’s Highway, where worship services were held every Sunday.

Charter members of the church were Brothers Allison Williams, Toney Lewis, Roland Strachan, Bruce Bucannan and Sister Denice Williams.

The church closed for a short time, but was reopened a short time later. Pastor Clifford McKinney was given the charge to reopen the church by the Right Rev. John Hurst Adams and Dr. Leeomia Kelly.

The congregation also worshipped at the Princess Hotel and after the hotel was closed because of hurricane damages, the late Mrs. Agatha McKinney led Pastor Clifford McKinney to the church’s present location.

The 11th Episcopal District under the leadership of Bishop McKinley Young and Supervisor Dorothy Young purchased the building and land that houses Cummings Young Temple.

The Dedication of Cummings Young Temple

After the spirited march, the dedication litany was led by Bishop Young, the ribbon was cut and we entered the large and comfortable sanctuary of Cummings Young Temple. The Rev. Ranford Patterson was the worship leader. The Rev. Clifford McKinney led the Call to Worship, the Rev. Joseph Sanchez lined the Hymn of Praise, “I love They Kingdom, Lord”; the Prayer of Thanksgiving was given by the Rev. F. Bernard Lemon. Other worship participants included the Rev. Howard Williamson, the Rev. James O. Williams, the Rev. Dr. Jerome Harris, the Rev. Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III, the Rev. Henry Green, Jr., the Rev. Winifred Williams, the Rev. Dr. Marvin C. Zanders II, the Rev. George Clarke, and the Rev. Dr. Leroy Kennon, President of the Presiding Elder’s Council of the 11th Episcopal District.

The Right Rev. McKinley Young delivered the Dedication Homily and what a superb and timely message! His text was taken from Matthew 16: 13-19. Bishop Young’s message was a classic example of homiletical skill. He pointed out that the church is held In-Trust and the church belongs to God and it behooves us, clergy and laity, to know to whom the church belongs. He emphasized time and again that the church belongs to God. He told the waiting congregation that our wills are not strong or wise enough to take care of the church. He gave an illustration of people who say of a local church that it's, “their church” or even “my church”; and some have said, “Nothing will happen in this church unless I say so.” Bishop Young emphatically pointed out that the church belongs to God and “The Church’s One Foundation is Jesus Christ her Lord.”

The sermon received a round of applause and a standing ovation and the worshipers were spiritually fed. The presence of the Holy Spirit was in that worship experience.

Following the prayers and other acts of worship, the collection was lifted. There was no offering taken at the Even Song Service on Thursday evening and the offering taken on Friday evening Worship Celebration was $35.00 or whatever parishioners were able to give. I mention that because the offering at the Cummings Young Dedication service was low-keyed and no amount was specified, but people lined up to the back of the sanctuary on both sides of the church and when the total offering was announced, the people had given over $21,000.

The prayer for the gifts was prayed, pastoral appointments were given, the Doxology sung and atmosphere for worship that the people refused to immediately leave the sanctuary. Finally, we got on vehicles to return to the hotel.

The Saturday evening event, a Caribbean banquet, was hosted by Bishop McKinley Young and Supervisor Dorothy Young. It was a fitting closing to an exciting meeting. The costumed dancers paraded and the crowd got into the action; everybody did; AMEs and non-AMEs. It was a celebration. I don’t know when the event ended; Dr. Charlotte and I stayed as long as we could, but we left the folks celebrating and we heard echoes of the celebration from our hotel room long into the night.

The hosts: the Rev. Ranford Patterson, the Rev. Howard Williamson, the Rev. Clifford McKinney, Mrs. Juliette Patterson, Brother Brian Brown, Mrs. Sandra Rolle and Brother James Williams were the ultimate hosts and their efficiency created a welcome climate that facilitated a well-executed 11th Episcopal District Post Conference Planning Meeting.

I move and second-the-motion that all Episcopal Districts’ Planning Meetings be held in Freeport, Grand Bahama!

2. READER RESPONSE TO EDITORIAL AND OTHER ISSUES:

- To the Editor:

RE: Response to TCR Newsbreak - United Methodists Tackle Ineffective Clergy, Congregations

I read this article with great enthusiasm and I am encouraged to hear that a weeding process is on the way. For many brothers and sisters in the "process" there is generally no sense of urgency to complete the required education or to get busy doing ministry. Some say the "process" is really about waiting for dead men's shoes or an appointment to a church that someone else has built up.

It is troublesome to me that someone who has been called to serve can actually sit and wait. Perhaps that confusion lies in an incorrect understanding of what the Prophet Isaiah meant when he said "those that wait on the Lord...." According to my study, the use of the word wait in this context speaks more of active service, like waiting on tables, rather than being inactive.

When I came into the process Rev. Harry L. Seawright, Pastor of Union Bethel in Brandywine, MD, taught me that answering the call meant leading or actively participating in ministry. In other words, there should be evidence of your call by the work you do for the kingdom. It was encouraging to work under the direction of a pastor who wanted to do more for the kingdom even when those around him encouraged him to be less active.

One lesson learned here is the necessity of studying the impact of what Effective Pastors are doing in the mentorship of brothers and sisters in the process. There is also a group of Highly Effective Pastors that lead mega churches with no apparent clergy properly equipped to take their place or better yet equipped to do a similar work in another community. I have had the good fortune of learning from Rev. Floyd Flake, Rev. Grainger Browning and Rev. Lee P. Washington. I consider this to be an awesome privilege, but so few brothers and sisters in the "process" either know of them or have had the opportunity to learn from them.

Here in the 15th Episcopal District and I assume in many other smaller districts, there are very few, if any, Highly Effective Pastors. It would be great if brothers and sisters in the process throughout the connection could do "Global Fellowships." I can think of a few highly motivated brothers and sisters in the process who could benefit the Church greatly if they could spend a year working under the direction of either Effective Pastors or Highly Effective Pastors. Recently, I shared an Annual Report from Allen Cathedral in Jamaica, Queens with a local church officer here in Cape Town, South Africa; he was blown away! This brother had never conceived of a mega AME church.

In summary, I highly encourage brothers and sisters in the process to consider the Sojourner Program and get busy in a District that needs your help right now! I also give God praise for Highly Effective Bishops like the Rt. Rev. Wilfred J Messiah who are willing to take risks with brothers and sisters in the process. Too often senior leadership waits too long to embrace the next generation of highly effective leaders. We have witnessed this too often and too late - better to preserve our mission at the risk of abandoning some traditions, than to preserve some traditions at the risk of abandoning our mission.

The Rev. Sidney Williams
Serving in the 15th Episcopal District

3. THE WATCH MEETING NIGHT SERVICES IN BLACK AMERICA:

Editor’s Note: This article was published last year, but the revised version of the origins of Watch Meeting Night Services is resurfacing and I want to set the record straight, at least among AMEs and for all of the readers of The Christian Recorder before this year’s Watch Meeting Night services.

Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III,
The 20th Editor, The Christian Recorder

We are approaching the New Year and pastors and local church leaders are busily planning special Christmas worship services, children’s Christmas programs and, hopefully, they are planning for Watch Meeting Night Services.

The Watch Night worship service has been a strong African Methodist tradition from the very beginnings of the AME Church. I mention that because there has been a revisionist account that originally stated that Watch Night Services in black communities can be traced back to gatherings on December 31, 1862, also known as "Freedom's Eve" when blacks came together in churches and private homes to await the news that the Emancipation Proclamation was going to become law. The revisionist account of the Watch Night Service says, “Black folks have gathered in churches annually on New Year's Eve ever since, praising God for bringing us safely through another year.” The story is heartwarming, but there is more to the story.

Today, the Watch Night Service is held in a lot of black and white
Churches; and the Emancipation Proclamation story has relevance and I am certain that the night of December 31, 1862 had a special meaning for the slaves. However, President Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation did not free all of the slaves, but I am also certain that, for those who were freed, December 31st remained a significant day in their lives as long as they lived.

But, the Watch Night service didn't begin in 1862; it began many years prior to that date.

The Watch Night Service reportedly began with the Moravians in Germany and was picked up by John Wesley who incorporated the service in Methodism. In England, Europe, and in America, the early Methodists and other religious groups also observed Watch Night services; the Moravians certainly did. The noted homiletician, Charles H. Spurgeon, a Baptist preacher, preached a Watch Night Sermon on December 31, 1855 and took his text from Lamentations 2:19.

In America, among the earliest Watch Night services was probably held at St. George Church in Philadelphia where Richard Allen was a member. To say that the Watch Meeting services began in the mid-1800 is a myth. It is certain that Richard Allen celebrated Watch Meeting night services at St. George Church and it would follow that Watch Meeting Night services were held at Mother Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church in Philadelphia.

Originally, Watch Night services were held to deepen the spiritual life of the Methodists and Wesley, himself explained in his Journal that watch Night services in England were generally held between 8:30 p.m. and 12:30 a.m. on the Friday nearest the full moon "so that participants walked safely home through moonlit streets." In 19th Century Philadelphia the Methodists continued the practice of watch-night services on New Year's Eve. The newly-formed AME Church members, wherever AME Churches were located, celebrated Watch Meeting Night services.

Watch Meeting Night Service is a tradition that I hope will continue because we have a lot for which to be thankful. All of us have a testimony to give, a song to sing and a prayer to be prayed. In the black community, the Watch Meeting Night began with us, the African Methodist Episcopal Church and with the Right Reverend Richard Allen, the first consecrated and elected bishop.

Though other denominations have Watch Night services, Watch Meeting Night worship is a Methodist tradition and we should never, ever, forget it.

4. AME-INDIA PRAYER REQUEST & THANKS GIVING:

October- November 2009

We are very thankful to you for your unfailing prayer support to us. It is indeed a joy to know and have the assurance of your valuable prayers for us, especially when our Pastors are toiling tirelessly in the field, despite the opposition and other difficulties they face in their own lives. God has been good in sustaining each one of us and blessing our ministry here. Below we have jotted down some prayer requests for your valuable prayers.

Pastor C requests prayer for a Hindu lady named Kanakamma who has been suffering from some kind of nervous weakness for the last six years. The Lord led our Pastor to her, he offered to pray for her and she agreed, making use of the opportunity, the Gospel was explained to her; she has put her faith in Jesus, please pray that she may experience the healing touch of Jesus in her life.

Pastor G requests prayers for the family of Mr. Devakumar; they belong to the Hindu religion. Due to severe financial crisis, the whole family had attempted suicide recently, but the Lord had not willed their death so soon. Our Pastor was led by the Lord to minister to this family. He regularly visits them, encouraging them and praying for them. He also persuades them with the Gospel to trust in Jesus. Please pray for their salvation both from their sins and their immediate financial crisis.

Pastor "D" requests prayer for Mr. Prasana Kumar, a Hindu devotee. For the past three years he has been suffering from throat cancer. Our Pastor has recently started ministering to him, through the sharing of the Gospel and praying for his healing. Please for that God would save this person, by bringing him into the knowledge of salvation and by delivering him from his physical infirmity.

Pastor "JW" requests prayer for Mrs. Sharada who has been possessed with evil spirit for the last four years. This is a tormenting spirit which has made life hell for the whole family, (the husband along with two sons). Our Pastor recently came to know about this family, he is ministering to them, and he is also engaged in fasting and praying for the lady and the family. Please from for the deliverance and the salvation of this family.

Pastor Mrs. "S" requests prayer for Mr. Govindaswamy and his family. They had been ardent followers of a very famous and popular Hindu sect. Through the ministry of our Pastor the whole family has embraced Jesus. Kindly pray that they would be strengthened in their new found faith and live for the glory of God.

Pastor JD requests prayer for Mr. Sundar and Mr. Anandan, two young people, who had been severely opposing the preaching of the Gospel in their two, are now slowing responding to the Gospel through the loving ministry of our Pastor. With the conversion of these two young, they might be able to lead many other young people to the Lord. Therefore please pray for their salvation and for the Lord to burden them to reach out to others.

Pastor "A" requests prayer for Mrs. Mariamma a very committed follower of the Lord; she is severely beaten and ill-treated by Mr. Chengiah, an alcoholic nominal Christian. Pastor "A" regularly visits this family and is ministering to them. Please pray that the Lord would touch the husband to commit his life to God and be a support to his wife in her faith journey.

Pastor "S" thanks the Lord for healing Prasad, an eight year old boy, who had a hole in his heart, a congenital heart defect. Through persistent prayer and faith the hole has disappeared without a surgery. Now the entire family has accepted Jesus as a result of the miracle and they are regularly attending the church for worship.

Pastor Mrs. "N" thanks the Lord and requests prayers for Mrs. Vanaja, a Hindu lady, who had been suffering with a tumor in her stomach for the last nine months. Our Pastor ministered to this lady, shared the gospel and prayed regularly over her. Now the tumor has disappeared and the lady has been healed. She has put her faith in Jesus, please pray that she may grow in her faith and be a witness to others.

Pastor "DR" thanks the Lord and requests prayer for a couple. Through his ministry a Hindu lady named Rani accepted the Lord and became a Christian. She comes from a high caste family. He husband had been tormenting her for her new found faith. Persistent prayers and regular visits from our pastor have finally brought its results by softening the husband's attitude. Please pray for his conversion.

Pastor Mrs. Rani thanks the Lord for delivering Mrs. Sangeetha from the possession of an evil spirit. As a result of this she along with her husband and three children have accepted Jesus as their personal Saviour. They are now regularly attending worship service. Please pray for their spiritual growth.

Pastor "LP" praises God for touching the life of Mr. Nandaiah and transforming him. Mr. Nandaiah had been severely torturing his wife for becoming a Christian. Both of them are from the Hindu faith. It’s amazing how the Holy Spirit has touched and transformed this couple.

Pastor E praises God for transforming Mr. Malaiah, who earlier practiced witchcraft. Mr. Malaiah has accepted the Lord, through the ministry of Pastor E and is regularly attending the church along with his family

Pastor "DS" praises God for healing Mrs. Chittemma, who was about to die of breast cancer, since it was in an advanced stage. Our Pastor regularly visited her and prayed for her healing. Now she is healed of the cancer and leading a normal life. Please pray for the family to come to faith, as our Pastor continues to minister to them.

Pastor "SP" thanks God for the miracle in the life of Esther, a convert from Islam. She had not conceived for four years after her marriage. Secretly she used to come to the church, one day Pastor preached about pledging to God, as a result she pledged and in the next week she conceived as a miracle. She has accepted the Lord and took the name Esther as her new name. Please pray for her safety and spiritual growth in the Lord.
Pastors SS reports that a couple Mr. Dhanraj and Mrs. Ruthmary were saved by God’s grace nine years back. But for the last nine years there had been continuous pressure for them to reconvert back to Hinduism. Through persistent prayers, the Lord has answered, and those who opposed have been silenced by the Lord, leaving the family alone to witness for the Lord. Their son wanted to reconvert, but suddenly he became sick and through an experience of healing he too has committed his life to the Lord.

Pastor "R" reports that Mrs. Latha was possessed by a spirit that constant prompted her to commit suicide. She was being prayed over. One night God appeared to her in a vision and gave her deliverance from the spirit. This incident changed her and even led her husband to accept Jesus as her personal Saviour. Pastor also reports of a cow that was almost dying due to magic, through prayer the cow was healed, this experience enhanced the faith of the family who owned the cow.

Pastor "S" reports that the house behind her church caught fire and was completely burnt to ashes, she was afraid that the fire would spread to the church, which is only a thatched hut, but God protected it, this indeed is a miracle, she is thankful to God for this.

Pastor "CPR" reports to have baptized four Hindu persons who accepted Jesus as their personal Saviour. There are many other Hindus who come to the church, they are yet to know Jesus and make a commitment. Please remember them in your prayers.

Please continue to pray for all our Pastors, many of them have health problems and due to lack of resources have not availed proper medical care either for them or their family members. Without a regular source of income they struggle to meet their ends, but despite all this they are doing a wonderful ministry and labouring very hard in establishing the Lord’s Kingdom here. Thanking you all for your valuable prayers.

The Rev. “AP” and the Rev. “S” request your prayers for Mrs. Jayanthi, a Hindu convert, a secret Christian; that she should stand firm in the Lord and for her family to accept the Lord, and also please pray for Ms. Latha, she is orphan, please pray for God to meet her needs.

Please pray for us, our protection, and a place to stay, a house where we can worship the Lord freely, and do more work for the Lord.

NO matter what comes,
NO matter what we eat,
NO matter where we stay
NO matter when sickness comes
It’s a NO, to Satan forever,
YES, YES, YES, We will serve the Lord Forever,
YES we will build the Kingdom,
YES we’ll take many to see the dwelling place of the Lord.

AME-India

5. 250TH BIRTHDAY OF BISHOP RICHARD ALLEN AND 200TH BIRTHDAY OF BISHOP DANIEL ALEXANDER PAYNE:

The 250th birthday of the founder of the African Methodist Episcopal Church, the Right Rev. Richard Allen is fast approaching.

The Rev. Dr. Mark Tyler, pastor of Mother Bethel AME Church in Philadelphia reminds us, “… as a denomination, we should be thinking and planning right now for the proper way to remember Bishop Daniel Alexander Payne's 200th birthday on February 24, 2011. After Bishop Allen, no other person has had such an impact on the shape and direction of the African Methodist Episcopal Church (AMEC) than Bishop Payne. Bishop Payne was the longest serving bishop in our history, serving as an active bishop literally 1/2 of his 82 years (elected and consecrated in 1852).”

Dr. Tyler said of Bishop Payne, “During his lifetime, he led the fight for an educated ministry, he purchased Wilberforce University on behalf of the AMEC, and he was the central figure in the expansion of the AMEC into the south in the days after the Civil War.”

6. THE 8TH EPISCOPAL DISTRICT LOUISIANA CONFERENCE - “PRESERVING AND HONORING OUR HERITAGE”:

Celebrating 152 years of stewardship, the 8th Episcopal District Louisiana Conference, filled to capacity at Turner Chapel AME Church in Greensburg, Louisiana, received God’s blessings through thought-provoking, spirit-filled sermons, talented liturgical dance, creative skits, and anointed songs of Zion.

The session started on the mountaintop and it continued reaching towards the heavens. Bishop Carolyn Tyler Guidry, proudly, exalted, and confidently presided over the fourth and final Conference of the 8th Episcopal District held during 2009. Of course, Bishop Guidry with her usual first class persona kept everyone laughing and enjoying themselves while conducting the business of the church. Supervisor, Lola Nixon Cheltenham was faithfully there, supported by the Women’s Missionary Society of the Conference. The Reverend Stanley Carter and his beautiful wife, Mrs. Norwedia Carter and the Turner Chapel family after waiting anxiously for the Conference, were more than excited and ready to host us.

Prior to the opening of the Louisiana Conference the Women In Ministry met with a business session, which included the election of officers and an educational workshop on Excess Baggage. The evening concluded with The Reverend Cathryn Amedee preaching the word, “It’s Only a Test” coming from James 1: 1-9.

The Women’s Missionary Society (WMS) guided by the captivating Supervisor, Mrs. Lola Nixon Cheltenham and the lovely Mrs. Brenda Hurst, Louisiana Conference WMS President, competently conducted the business of the Society. The 7:00 p.m. worship service under the banner of “Missionaries: Making God’s Mission, Our Mission” skillfully presented the Word of God through songs of praises, a skit entitled “Conducting a Meeting” and dance. The skit even though it was very lighthearted gave those in attendance much to ponder, "is that how your meetings are conducted?” The liturgical dance by the Grant Chapel AME Church, Amite, Louisiana, featured the Grant Chapel’s WMS, lead by the Conference President Sister Brenda Hurst. The culminating activity was the Capping and Pinning Ceremony, performed by Supervisor Cheltenham and Episcopal WMS President, Mrs. Ethel Morrison. Twenty-one (21) members were capped, 11 associates were pinned making a total of 31 new members being added to the Society. God is truly providing the increase in the vineyard. Bishop Guidry ended the evening with accolades to the Supervisor and her great Cabinet.

As the clock struck 10:00 a.m., on Wednesday, October 7, 2009, the 152nd Session of the Louisiana Conference began. While the great procession of proud Clergy marched in so magnificently, the awaiting delegates, members and visitors raised the rafters singing God’s praises with eager anticipation. Turner Chapel was bursting with the presence of the Holy Spirit. Presiding Elder Otis S. Lewis, served as worship leader and Reverend Stacey Richardson of Black Creek AME Church in Darlington, Louisiana delivered a powerful message titled “Having a Spirit of Togetherness” Acts 3:1-2 during the Opening Worship Service. The preached word spilling forth met the challenge and raised the bar even higher. The Louisiana Conference Choir blessed the Conference with their melodious voices.

Bishop Guidry and the Presiding Elders continued to carry out the business of the Louisiana Annual Conference. The Board of Examiners submitted their reports, recommending the ordination of five Deacons, (2 Local; three (3) Itinerant Deacons) as well as 2 Elders (1 Local and 1 Itinerant). God is truly moving in the hearts of both men and women in the Louisiana Conference

With high praise and continued joy, the Sons of Allen under the leadership of Reverend Sherman Berry, Pastor of Union Chapel AME Church in Kentwood, Louisiana, stood tall as they went forth with praise and worship by the redeemed and sanctified men both elderly and young throughout the Conference. The Sons imparted their talents through songs from various churches and combining the wisdom of the seasoned men of God with those of the freshly anointed. As they ended their celebration, presentation of Service Awards were given to the outstanding men representing the local churches for their support of the Sons of Allen.

Presiding Elders and Clergy gave reports reflecting their stewardship for this Conference year. Representing the three Presiding Elder’s District were Presiding Elder Otis Lewis, Host Presiding Elder of the Greater New Orleans Greensburg District, Presiding Elder John K. Holiday and Mrs. Leonia Holiday of the Central New Orleans Bogalusa District and Presiding Elder Columbus Muse and Mrs. Laurena Muse of the Western New Orleans Baton Rouge District. There also were some unique moments presented relative to the Conference’s Presiding Elders. Presiding Elder John K. Holiday was blessed to celebrate his birthday on the opening of the Conference. Presiding Elder Columbus Muse was blessed to be presenting his first as well as his last report as a Presiding Elder as he retired during the Conference’s Retirement Celebration, and finally, Presiding Elder Otis Lewis announced his pending engagement.

The Reverend Dr. Dennis Dickerson, Historiographer of the AME Church and also a candidate for Bishop blessed our hearts during the Noon Day Hour of Power. Dr. Dickerson asked the question, “Do You Know Who Your Friends Are?” The text was taken from John 15:13. He asked are your friends someone with power or prestige? Or, are they someone like Jesus, an advocate, a helper, a comforter? Who are your friends?

During the Ecumenical Worship Night, Dr. Daisy Slan, Superintendent of the St. Helena Parish School, Sheriff Nathaniel Williams of St. Helena Parish, Chief of Police Adrain Martin of the town of Greensburg and Mr. Thomas Wicker, Police Juror of the 2nd Ward, welcomed the Conference. While assuring Bishop Guidry of the safety of the Conference they also pledged to work with her and the Conference members during those times there may have been a need to rush… to get to service on time. The Pastors are aware of the $5 late fee collected by the Bishop with all contributions going to the support of the Young People’s Department. It’s a blessing to have friends in special places.

The Reverend Jimmy Richardson, pastor of Orange Grove and Roseland Churches of God in Christ and Superintendent of District VI, Jurisdiction 3 Eastern Louisiana preached the Ecumenical Sermon. The Reverend Richardson preached, “This Also Know!” from 2 Timothy 3:1-2. The Conference was blessed with songs of praise from the choir of Orange Grove and Roseland Churches.

As the Organized Laity of the Conference led by Sister Patricia Campbell, Conference Lay President, celebrated its Lay Witness Night with the theme, “Trouble in the World, Peace in the Word,” it had the opportunity to showcase the talent and skills of the laity throughout the Louisiana Conference. Sister Brenda B. Taylor, Worship Leader, in conjunction with the Turner Chapel Choir started the evening out with high praise. Master Arrington Jerome Morris of Rocky Hill AME Church, Greensburg, Louisiana gave a thought-provoking reading called, “The Shoe.” Greater St. James AME Church, Hammond, Louisiana young people performed a liturgical dance and the energy was flowing high. The Lord truly blessed our hearing through the anointed voice of Miss Amythyst Vernon a member of Union Chapel AME Church in Kentwood, Louisiana. Then there was the message. Sister Dawn K. Robinson of Fluker Chapel AME Church, Fluker, Louisiana stirred our hearts. Sister Dawn encouraged us to “Don’t Lose Heart, Don’t Lose Hope” from II Corinthian 4:5-10. The Lay Organization recognized Reverend Miriam J. Mitchell, Associate Minister of Allen Chapel AME Church in Baton Rouge, Louisiana for her dedicated support to the organization by attending the meetings, offering wise counsel as well as spiritual and financial contribution. The Lay Organization also recognized and honored the three Presiding Elders of the Louisiana Conference. Guests were acknowledged from the South Mississippi Conference as well as the Central North Louisiana Conference who came in support of Sister Campbell.

The Louisiana Conference recognized, celebrated, cried, laughed and acknowledged the retirement of two of its great soldiers who have been on the battlefield for some time and now advanced to a new chapter in their lives. Those two warriors are Presiding Elder Columbus Muse (formerly of the Western New Orleans Baton Rouge District) and the Reverend Willie Brumfield, former pastor of Days Chapel AME Church in Greensburg, Louisiana.

The Ordination Ceremony!

The conference paused during the business of the Church to give somber reverence and recognition to our Brothers and Sisters who pledge to preach and teach God’s Word. The Reverend Lydia Waters Hamilton United Methodist Church Dallas, Texas preached an uplifting message, “Stay Focused! Keep Your Eye on the Prize,” Philippians 3: 12-14. Several in attendance humbly stood before the Conference and recommitted their lives to God following such a soul-searching sermon.

Five ordained Deacons: The Rev. P Crayton, the Rev. Helen Marie Warford, the Rev. Mary Simms Guy, the Rev. Gerald Nettles and the Rev. Earl Byron Robinson, Jr.; two elders, the Reverend Belinda Washington, Itinerant and the Reverend Shirley J. Watson, Local were welcomed into the fold.

The Young People’s Department (YPD) under the leadership of Sister Josie Shropshire, Conference Director and Sister Leslie Carter, YPD Conference President displayed their God given talents and skills through a unique presentation of a play “Why Am I Here?” Also young men from Payne Memorial African Methodist Episcopal Church in New Orleans presented “The Black Man Rising” oration. The Louisiana Conference Young People’s Department set the record with 275 young people in attendance for the 8th District Conference as acknowledged by the 8th District Episcopal President Brother Ritney Castine.

The Reverend Mary Lucas, Louisiana Conference Church School Superintendent, was in charge of the Church School prior to the close of the Conference. The session was very well-attended by adults, pastors and young people. There were at least two adult classes. The lesson, “Restored to Wholeness,” text Mark 5:1-13; 18-20 was critiqued by the Reverend Jennie Curry of St. Luke AME Church in New Orleans, Louisiana

As the Conference was coming to a close, the unique and prestigious Prelate, the Rt. Reverend Carolyn Tyler Guidry preached the Closing Sermon. Preaching from Matthew 28: 16-20 “You Are Commanded to Go.” Offerings were raised, the resolutions were read and the committee gave the financial report. The Special Resolution Committee, Chaired by the Reverend Stephanie Taylor, presented its recommendations in support of the Health Care Bill as well as providing informative information on the H1N1 Vaccine. Accolades were offered to Bishop Guidry as the newly appointed President of the Council of Bishops.

Certificates were presented to those elected to serve 2009 - 2010. Gifts of appreciation were given to all the retired clergy in the Louisiana Conference. A “Big Thank You” was given to the Turner Chapel AME Church family under the leadership of Reverend Stanley Carter and Mrs. Norwedia Carter for their wonderful hospitality, delicious food and the loving kind spirit in which it was given.

We all sat attentively as Bishop Guidry read the appointments. There were smiles and some tears. And through it all we gave God the Glory and prayed for his guidance.

The 153rd Annual Conference has been invited to Allen Chapel AME Church in Baton Rouge, Louisiana under the leadership of Reverend Bland Washington. The 8th Episcopal District will convene on October 16-17, 2009 at the Bonner-Campbell Multiplex in Edwards, Mississippi to plan for the coming year and to resolve any unfinished business of the District. Praise God From Whom All Blessings Flow…..

Bishop Carolyn Tyler Guidry, Presiding Prelate

The Rev. Patricia Campbell, Louisiana Conference Reporter
8th Episcopal District

7. THE 145TH SESSION OF THE CALIFORNIA ANNUAL CONFERENCE:

Bishop T. Larry Kirkland, Presiding Prelate
Episcopal Supervisor Mrs. Mary L. Kirkland

The 145th Session of the California Conference was celebrated and ushered in with the Conference theme, “A Prescription to Rebuild the Walls.” Nehemiah 2:17, “Then said I unto them, ye see the distress that we are in, how Jerusalem lieth waste, and the gates thereof are burned with fire: come, and let us build up the wall of Jerusalem, that we be no more a reproach.”

The Reverend Dr. Vernon S. Burroughs was the host Presiding Elder and the Reverend Booker T. Guyton was the Co-Host Presiding Elder. Under the exceptional leadership of three host pastors, the Reverend Dr. Tyrone Hicks, St. Andrews A.M.E. Church, Sacramento, California, the Reverend Pamela Myrtis Mason, Allen Chapel A.M.E. Church, Sacramento, California, and the Reverend Elmer Redding, Sr., Murph Emmanuel A.M.E. Church, North Highlands, California, the delegates and members attending the 145th Session of the California Annual Conference were greeted with precision, excellent accommodations, and gracious hospitality.

The Women in Ministry (WIM) convened on Monday October 5, 2009. The California Conference WIM evening program focused on HIV/AIDS prevention and maintenance and collective efforts towards supporting individuals suffering from HIV/AIDS. This was accomplished through the Skit “Taking a Step Towards Knowing the Truth“, which included an HIV infected woman who not only shared her testimony in how to live with HIV/AIDS, she ministered to God’s people through song. Center for AIDS Research Education and Services (C.A.R.E.S.), Coordinator of African American Mobilization also shared the free services they provide and expressed an interest in training members in each local church to conduct HIV/AIDS awareness and education.

Bishop T. Larry Kirkland installed the new California Conference Women In Ministry officers: the Reverend Robin Crawford, Coordinator; the Reverend Ayisha Benham Co-Coordinator; the Reverend Va'Nechia Rayford, Treasurer; the Reverend Loretta Dickerson Smith, Financial Secretary; the Reverend Yvonne Arnold, Historiographer; the Reverend Yaa Rice Hogue, Worship Leader.

Tuesday October 6, 2009 the Women’s Missionary Society (WMS) convened its Annual Convention, under the leadership of Ms. Irma Lastra, California Conference WMS President, and held an evening worship service with the theme of “WMS Lighting the World", Psalms 119:105, “Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.” Mrs. Zanne Wilson and Mrs. Norma Armstrong-Gray, members of Parks Chapel A.M.E. Church, Oakland, California presented the spoken word. Mrs. Mary L. Kirkland, Episcopal Supervisor and Mrs. Beverly Thomas, Episcopal President presided over the pinning ceremony. Twenty-two new members were pinned, which was the highest number of new members pinned in the 5th Episcopal District as of that date.

Wednesday, October 7, 2009, Bishop T. Larry Kirkland called the 145th Session of the California Annual Conference to order at the Red Lion Hotel, Sacramento, California. Bishop Kirkland’s prayer for the California Annual Conference expressed his love for the members and his desire that the work of the Annual Conference would be successful. “Lord, we want this conference to be a fruitful success, not just because our church or organization is involved in it, but because we want it to be pleasing in Your Sight.”

The WMS Hour of Power was held at noon and the Reverend Francine Brookins, Senior Pastor, Wright Chapel, A.M.E. Church, San Francisco, California was the speaker. The sermon topic was “Don’t Get Distracted”, and the scripture text was Philippians Chapter 4.

The Opening Worship Service set the spiritual tone for the remainder of the Annual Conference.

The Reverend Dr. Allen Williams, Senior Pastor, St. Paul AME Church, Berkeley, California, was the preacher for the Opening Worship Service. The dynamic Reverend Dr. Williams preached a timely message on the topic of “What Do You Do When You are Faced with a Fool; the sermon text was 1 Samuel 25: 1-36. The message addressed how to handle a fool as they can be found anywhere and everywhere. The Reverend Dr. Williams stated "Don’t let a fool, fool you.” "Let God remove the fool."

The Mayor of Sacramento, California, Kevin Johnson extended a gracious welcome to the members of the 145th Session of the California Annual Conference and presented a proclamation at the Opening Worship Service.

Thursday October 8, 2009, the Reverend Francine Brookins presented a workshop on the prevention of clergy sexual misconduct. The Reverend Brookins highlighted the ways in which leaders and those in authority abuse power. The Scripture Text was II Samuel 2, and the Reverend Brookins discussed how David deliberately abused his power. She stated that sexual misconduct in the church “creates a toxic atmosphere in the church.” Further, there is a significant financial, spiritual and religious cost to the African Methodist Episcopal Church with cases of clergy misconduct. Bishop Kirkland emphasized that people need to be called to accountability and sexual misconduct will not be tolerated in the 5th Episcopal District.

Ecumenical Men’s Night Worship Service was held on Thursday October 8, with a powerful processional of God’s Men of Valor. Bishop Kirkland introduced the preacher, the Reverend Dr. Curtis J. Mitchell, Senior Pastor, Antioch Progressive Baptist Church, Sacramento, California. The Reverend Mitchell preached on the topic of “Preparing for a Prescription to Rebuild the Walls”; scripture text, Nehemiah Chapters 1-2.

On Friday October 9, 2009 the Lay Witness Night theme was “I Will Sing unto the Lord a New Song,” Psalm 96:1. Under the direction of the California Conference Lay Organization President, Sandra Threadgill, the California Conference Lay Organization presented an evening of song, dance and instrumentals highlighting the history of music in the AME Church. President Elect Harold Shields, 5th Episcopal District Lay Organization, spoke on the topic “Refocusing Our Ministry to Serve the Present Age.” President Elect Shields began with “Take Me Back” using Galatians 6:9-10 as his scripture text. President Elect Shields stated that we need to go back to the basics of strong faith and evangelism. In order to serve the present age we need to understand our purpose and grow spiritually.

The Young Peoples Division (YPD) of the California Annual Conference kicked off their segment of the Annual Conference on Friday, October 9, 2009 under the leadership of Miss Nikita Bracy, YPD Conference President. Over 135 YPD’ers, Directors and Advisors were registered. Also in attendance were the 5th Episcopal District YPD, President, KaDijah Brown, and Mrs. Richelle Fry Skinner, Episcopal Director, Denver Colorado. Evening workshops were held along with an Executive Board meeting, and the night ended with rehearsal for the youth night program.

The Reverend Frederick McCullough, Senior Pastor of St. John AME Church, Omaha, Nebraska, facilitated “A Hip Hop Bible Study” for the YPD’ers by the poolside early Saturday morning. The Saturday night youth program focused on the F.B.I. “Fully Blessed Individual: Walking in the Light.” The young people listened as eight of their peers delivered messages inspired from the Beatitudes Matthew 5:3-10.

The Ordination Service was held Saturday October 9, 2009. The Rev. Dr. Darryl Ingram, Executive Director, Department of Christian Education, delivered the ordination sermon and the topic was the Humus of Ministry, scripture text, II Corinthians 4:7.

The 2009 Ordinands were:

- Itinerant Deacon: The Reverend Dionne Carter
- Local Elder: The Reverend Lorraine Allen
- Itinerant Elders: The Reverend Ayisha Benham, the Reverend Robin Hughes Crawford, and the Reverend Sharon Avril

The Closing Worship Service was held at Fremont Presbyterian Church in Sacramento, California. Bishop Kirkland delivered the preached word on the theme of “Rebuilding the Wall,” scripture text Nehemiah 2:17-20. Bishop Kirkland called on the 145th Session of the California Annual Conference to be agitated about what is not right in our churches and communities. We should be agitated about poor relationships between laity and clergy. We should be agitated about the high drop-out rate among African American students and we should be agitated with the high rate of shacking. Bishop Kirkland challenged the 145th Session of the California Annual Conference to be agitated, to meditate and then activate.

The 145th Session of the California Annual Conference closed with the presentation of two resolutions. A Resolution in support of Health Care Reform was read and Bishop Kirkland encouraged members to request local media to publish the resolution. The following resolution was also read and presented by the resolutions committee.

Resolution:

Whereas, the daily summary of the 145th Session of the California Annual Conference documented in the “Resolution” will be submitted to the Annual Conference Chief Secretary.

Therefore Let Us All Resolve, to act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with God, as we respond to the call for evangelism;

Therefore Be It Resolved, that the 145th California Annual Conference owes a debt of gratitude to the Reverends Tyrone Hicks, Pamela Myrtis Mason, Elmer Redding Sr., and the entire St. Andrews, Allen Chapel, and Murph Emmanuel A.M.E. Church families for their spirit of excellence and attention to detail in hosting the Annual Conference

Be it Further Resolved, that the 145th Session of the California Conference will be hosted by First A.M.E. Church, Oakland, CA, Reverend Dr. Harold R. Mayberry, Senior Pastor and the FAME family;

Be it Finally Resolved, that the California Conference stands and gives praise to God for our magnificent and dynamic 5th Episcopal District Leadership Team, Bishop T. Larry Kirkland and Mrs. Mary L. Kirkland, Episcopal Supervisor, as we follow the Prescription to Rebuild the Walls.

Respectfully submitted the 11th Day of October 2009 by the Committee on Resolutions:

The Reverend Pamela Myrtis Mason, Chairperson
The Reverend Robin Hood
The Reverend Stephanie Ransom
The Reverend Hugh Wesley
The Reverend Jackie Banks
Lay Delegate – St. Andrews
Lay Delegate – Bethel, Sparks

Article submitted by Mrs. Marilyn Lovelace-Grant
Director of Public Relations, California Conference

8. THE MT. CALVARY AME CHURCH KNOWS THAT GOD IS TRULY BLESSING OUR ZION:

The Mt. Calvary AME Church, Towson, Maryland has been struggling to build a four million dollar state of the arts Family Life and Education Center in order that the church could be a blessing to the youth of our community and help them to become better equipped to be the people God would have them to be. It has been very difficult during this financial downturn to stay on the mark financially.

The “best is yet to come.” God has given us evidence through an article from December issue of GQ Magazine.

"Toshibe teamed up with four men to design four limited-edition laptops (only four of each) that reflect their lifestyles and personalities. The PCs will be auctioned off and the article can be read in the December issue GQ Magazine, page 135.

Of the four men who were selected, only one, Omar Epps, selected a church as his cause. That church is Mt. Calvary AME Church, Towson Maryland where the proceeds of the auction will go directly to our Family Life and Education Center!

We want to share this message to AMEs all around the world because they will be able to partake in this blessing by either bidding for one of the laptop computers, or by praying for our success as we strive to build for the Kingdom of God and lift up the African Methodist Episcopal Church.

Thank you in advance for your help in this important matter.

Submitted by the Rev. Dr. Ann Lightner-Fuller, pastor of Mt. Calvary AME Church, Towson, Maryland ; Website, WWW.MTCALVARY.ORG/MCAMEC@MSN.COM

9. STATE OF THE COUNTRY 134TH SESSION OF THE EAST ANNUAL CONFERENCE OF THE 11TH EPISCOPAL DISTRICT:

Bishop McKinley Young, Presiding Prelate
Dr. Dorothy Jackson Young, Supervisor of Missions

The Federalist Movement was formed in 1780 to give opposition to the ratification of the Constitution of the United States. This opposition was based on the belief that the Articles of Confederation threatened the sovereignty of the states, authorized “monarchic” powers, and threatened individual rights and civil liberties. In order to address these concerns, the Bill of Rights was drafted, submitted to the states for ratification and was subsequently adopted on December 15, 1791.

The First Amendment of the Constitution states that: Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the free press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances.

It has been within the context of these individual rights and civil liberties; particularly the freedom of speech and peaceful assembly that a faction of the populace of this country has set forth a public agenda of fear, intimidation and inferred violence that does disservice and discredit to the constitutional rights that they so ardently claim to defend. This attitude of disrespect and defamation has resulted in disruption of health care reform debates in town hall meetings, inspired comparisons of the current administration to Nazi Germany; and emboldened Rep. Joe Wilson to call the President of the United States of America a liar from the halls of a joint session of Congress before a worldwide television audience. Even more shocking, a recent poll created on Facebook asked respondents to comment on the question, “Should Obama be killed?”

The post-election era of Barack Obama, the 44th President of the United States who happens to be of African American descent, was envisioned to be a time of cultural enlightenment, political reconciliation and a collective mandate to move beyond the divisiveness of past generations, towards a more unified sense of human concern and national purpose. The recent insult-laced rhetoric and ideological arguments made in opposition of the administration’s vision for the future of the country has done much to dispel those lofty and optimistic goals. Unwittingly, what these arguments have revealed is that the lines of division in this country are no longer defined along traditional parameters. Because of this historic election, division has transcended the definitions of democrat vs. republican, liberal vs. conservative, or even black vs. white; but now division is framed around the argument of “yesterday vs. tomorrow”. The mob mentality of the Tea Party Patriots and Birthers, manufactured outrage stirred by Fox News talk show hosts and Rush Limbaugh, and the erratic cries of, “I want my country back”, are all symptomatic of a philosophical resolve to not only challenge forward progress of the country but to vehemently fight to return America back to the “good ole days”. The vivid picture of a young African American male carrying an assault weapon and voicing opposition to universal health care reveals the persuasive and dangerous power of this argument.

Therefore, it is incumbent upon us as the people of God to be even more determined in our unwavering demand for substantive change in the political, social, and cultural landscape of this country. We must understand that the election of President Barack Obama was not a fluke of nature but the act of a wise and providential God. Moreover, because God holds the heart of the ruler, the ruler’s vision for justice and equity shall yield a bountiful harvest in due season. Subsequently, this necessitates our steadfast support of this President, his family, administration and vision for the betterment of all the people, nationally and globally. We must actively participate in local, state and national politics by remaining vigilant in our voting efforts during off year elections and by inundating our elected representatives with letters, cards and calls supporting the objectives and policies of this President, with particular emphasis on the passage of universal health care with the public option. We must also voice our demand for appropriate use of stimulus funds by state and local government, reform of banking securities and mortgage systems, reduction of troops in Afghanistan and Iraq, modification of No Child Left Behind, and Criminal Justice reforms to reduce the incarceration of young black males. Lastly, we must continuously lift up our first family, the nation and world in prayer, for the prayers of the righteous availeth much.

Humbly submitted,
Committee on State of the Country
The Reverend Tan C. Moss, Committee Chair

Members: The Rev. Alton Coles, the Rev. Mark Griffin, the Rev. William Simmons, the Rev. Mandela Smith, the Rev. Roger Williams: Lay: Brothers Eddie Hills, Robert Ford, James Rutledge; Sisters Mable Blanco, Ethel James, Marva Sampson, Penelope Wilson

10. SPIRIT OF EXCELLENCE PREVAILS AT WEST MAINLINE DISTRICT CONFERENCE:

By Angelena Spears
Philadelphia Conference Reporter

It rained, it stormed and the wind blew – but nothing could dampen the high spirits of those who attended the West Mainline District Conference on Friday, October 17 in Philadelphia.

The one-day conference was held at Jones Tabernacle AME Church, Philadelphia, and was well-attended by clergy and laity from the district’s 19 churches.

It was the first conference held under the leadership of the district’s new presiding elder, the Rev. Charles H. Lett Sr. Elder Lett had been named to lead the district in June on the heels of the retirement of Presiding Elder Joseph Patterson. Prior to the new assignment, Elder Lett had served five years as presiding elder of the South Philadelphia District.

At the onset of the conference, reports were received from the component heads of the district – the Lay Organization, Missionary Society, Church School, Young People’s Department (YPD), Christian Education and Department of Evangelism.

A spirit of excellence prevailed – even during the business sessions of the conference, as delegates from each church offered reports from their local congregations.

Following the delegate reports, two candidates seeking to enter the ministry were passed on to the Philadelphia Conference Board of Examiners. They were Stanley Hearst II, from St. Matthew AME Church, Philadelphia; and the Rev. A. Leigh Kennedy, an ordained clergy from the Presbyterian Church, who is a member of Bethel AME Church, Downingtown, PA.

The spiritual highlight of the morning was the Hour of Power service, which began at noon. The Rev. Bertha Johnson, pastor of Josie D. Heard, AME Church in Philadelphia was the preacher.

Her sermon title was “Straighten Up and Fly Right,” and she preached boldly from Luke 13:10-17.

The afternoon workshops were informative and engaging. The Rev. Ernest Flores, pastor of Second Baptist Church, Germantown, PA, led a workshop titled “Developing a Multicultural Ministry. The Rev. Roland McCall, pastor of St. Matthew AME Church, Philadelphia, led an enlightening workshop on the “Articles of Religion.”

Prior to the workshops and before the evening worship service, conference attendees were treated to two scrumptious meals – provided by the host church. Although the church does not have a formal kitchen, it did not stop the mother and aunt of the host pastor (the Rev. Stephen M. Lewis) from spearheading the preparation of a meal that was second to none.

Thanks to the efforts of Sister Ann Lewis, who is Rev. Lewis’ mom and a member of Jones Tabernacle, and her sister, Jean Adams, a member of Wesley AME Church, Swarthmore, Pennsylvania -- conference attendees dined on a variety of salads and soups for the afternoon lunch, and were treated to a meal of barbecue chicken, barbecue ribs, roast beef, greens, string beans and baked macaroni for the evening fare.

They were assisted by the Rev. Lewis’s brother, Richard Lewis, who grilled the spareribs, and his cousin, Michael Fortune, who grilled the chicken.

The evening service was enveloped in worship and praise by the Divine Movement Praise Dancers from Mt. Pisgah AME Church, Philadelphia, and the Bethel AME Church, Bryn Mawr, Pennsylvania, choirs.

The conference ended on a powerful spiritual note when the Rev. Carlos D. Bounds, pastor of Bethel AME Church, Bryn Mawr, PA, delivered a stirring message.

The Rev. Bounds preached powerfully from Matthew 14:13-21, and used as his theme, “He Got This.”

Elder Lett noted that it was such a “soul-stirring” message that it moved all of the pastors in West Mainline District to come to the altar for prayer.

“The entire conference was spirit-filled and good information was shared,” said Elder Lett.

“I am looking forward to the things we [as a district] can do together,” he said.

11. BISHOP AND ENTOURAGE TRAVEL ABROAD:

James L. Davis, Servant Bishop of the Ninth Episcopal District has never been one to forget “from which he came”. In 2008, Bishop Davis returned home to Alabama as the Presiding Prelate in an effort to REVIVE the District. But, he vowed never to forget the people he served in the 19th Episcopal District (Republic of South Africa).

On Friday, November 20th, Bishop Davis and his family, along with over 30 clergy and lay departed the United States bound for Johannesburg, South Africa. On Sunday, November 22nd the group participated in a heartwarming and dynamic church service in Soweto.

Mrs. Arelis B. Davis is passionate about her mission work, here and abroad, as she accompanies her husband on this trip. During the 2009 Planning Meeting in Bessemer, Alabama, a special offering was taken up especially for the efforts of this mission trip.

Although part of the trip is focused on the mission effort, the group has toured Soweto, Pilanesberg National Park, Cape Town, Table Mountain, and Robben Island where Nelson Mandela and other political prisoners were held.

After eight days of sightseeing, mission work, and being given insight into how the human spirit triumphs, the group will return to the United States on Saturday, November 28th.

Submitted by Bea Tatum, 9th Episcopal District Public Relations Director

12. EPISCOPACY WINDOW REMOVAL CEREMONY LAUNCHES MULTI- MILLION RESTORATION AND NATIONAL CAPITAL CAMPAIGN:

Washington, D.C.--A commemorative ceremony for the temporary removal of the unique 123-year-old Episcopacy Window of the AME denomination recently launched the start of a $10 million restoration project at Metropolitan AME Church. Metropolitan, which was built by recently freed slaves, is known as “The Cathedral of African Methodism" because it is shrouded in the unique history of the AME Church. The church has also had an historic voice in the lives of black people and others throughout the nation and world.

Despite the faltering economy that has forced many Washington area churches to halt the expansion of their edifices, Metropolitan’s passionate and committed 1100-member congregation is demonstrating its faith, obligation to God, their ancestors and the future by undertaking a massive renovation and national capital campaign for the historic structure. Located at 1518 M Street N.W. in the heart of a commercial district, the church’s 2500-seating capacity arguably rivals nearly every other public place in the Nation Capital’s downtown section except the convention center and baseball stadium.

The Episcopacy Window emphasizes the national character of the church. The beautiful stained glass windowpane bears the name and is dedicated to every AME bishop consecrated between 1816 and 1884. Bishop Richard Allen, founder of the denomination and consecrated as the first Bishop, is the window’s centerpiece and the names of the other bishops are encircled about him. The window differs from most stained glass windows of the era because it lacks the more common Biblical themes.

“It is very clear that the Council of Bishops view this historic building and institution as a connectional shrine,” said the Rev. Dr. Ronald E. Braxton, senior pastor. “We express our gratitude to our own Bishop and Supervisor Adam and Connie Richardson, the Second Episcopal District, along with Bishops John Bryant, McKinley Young, William DeVeaux, Carolyn Guidry, James Davis, David Daniels, Sarah Davis, Earl McCloud and John White for their combined contributions of $42,506.00.”

The window-removal ceremony occurred outside the church as Pastor Braxton led the congregants in prayer, scripture and an original litany. As the parishioners worshipped, the Episcopacy window was slowly taken down the church steps by stained-glass window experts who will spend the next year restoring and re-leading the window.

Several generations of Metropolitan members gathered for the ceremony. “My grandmother’s parents helped to build this church,” said Rev. Johanna Green as she watched the window being carried from the church. “I am the fourth generation of my family to attend Metropolitan and I know my grandmother would have wanted me to be here.” According to Juliette Prioleau, 29, “This is part of my history of being an AME. I enjoy the history of the church.”

Metropolitan has not only been a major center of worship, but also an institution in the forefront of the civic, cultural and intellectual life of African Americans. Metropolitan was the first black institution to host from its pulpit an official presidential inaugural event. William J. Clinton hold both of his pre-inaugural prayer services at the church and Rosa Parks’ memorial service was held at Metropolitan.

It has hosted people representing every political sentiment that advocated racial and economic parity, including Frederick Douglass, Archbishop Desmond Tutu, Paul Laurence Dunbar, Mary McLeod Bethune, Eleanor Roosevelt, Hubert Humphrey, Jesse Jackson, Sr. and Edward M. (Ted) Kennedy. Frederick Douglass attended regularly, and his funeral was held at Metropolitan. Its pulpit leadership has advised U.S. presidents on issues of race, economics and national security.

One of the themes of the National Capital Campaign, headed by co-chairs Dr. Elsie Scott and Mrs. Dina Curtis, is “Restoring our Church for Future Generations” .God has blessed the efforts of the congregation since May of this year to raise nearly $300,000. Said Mrs. Thelma Jacobs, a church historian, “I am always touched that when I walk into the church I can reach (past) generations and I’m a traveler in the caravan that I hope can see generations ahead .”

Submitted by Tony Hawkins, Church Administrator for Metropolitan AME Church in Washington, DC

13. RESPONSE TO THE REV. ROYD MWANDU’S ARTICLE, WHAT CAN WE DO TO VISIT… MOTHER BETHEL:

*The Rev. Mark Kelly Tyler, Ph.D

Please allow me the opportunity to reply to Rev. Royd Mwandu’s thought provoking question raised by his member, “What can we do to visit…Mother Bethel?” Pastor Mwandu draws a good parallel for the AME Church to consider in thinking about the pilgrimage of Muslims to Mecca. I agree that the AME Church should begin to promote a similar idea throughout our Zion, that each AME make it a point to visit the Mother Church in his or her lifetime. I remember my first visit in 2000 at the CONVO, my eyes filled with tears at just standing in front of the building.

On February 14, 2010, we will celebrate the 250th birthday of our founder, Bishop Richard Allen. In Philadelphia, there are multiple plans in the works to celebrate this momentous occasion that will run throughout the year. Let’s make 2010 a Pilgrimage Year back to the Mother!

Here’s a brief overview of events planned thus far:

Wednesday, Dec. 16, 2010- Mother Bethel’s Historical Commission and Historical Society, the African American Museum of Philadelphia, and the Franklin Institute will sponsor Dr. Cornell West and Dr. Molefi Asante in a dialogue about the early Black founders (Richard and Sarah Allen, Absalom Jones, James Forten, and others).

Wednesday, Feb. 10, 2010- Special Rare Collections Exhibit on Richard Allen by the Historical Society of Pennsylvania, 13th and Locust Streets, Philadelphia, PA and Panel Discussion with the pastors of African Episcopal Church of St. Thomas (Absalom Jones’ congregation), Old St. George’s United Methodist Church, and Mother Bethel.

Friday, Feb. 12, 2010- Special First Episcopal District Founder’s Day Worship service at Mother Bethel. Senior Bishop John Richard Bryant, Presiding Prelate of the Fourth Episcopal District, will be the preacher.

Saturday, Feb. 13, 2010- First Episcopal District Founder’s Day will be held at the First District Headquarters, 3801 Market St., Philadelphia, Pennsylvania and will feature a discussion with Dr. Dennis Dickerson, AME Church Historiographer in an historic conversation with Dr. Richard Newman, author of Freedom's Prophet: Bishop Richard Allen, the AME Church, and the Black Founding Fathers.

Saturday, Feb. 13, 2010 - Tour of “Audacious Freedom” exhibit at the African American Museum of Philadelphia, which is located in Philadelphia at 7th and Market Streets.

Sunday, Feb 14, 2010- Bishop Allen’s 250th Birthday will be celebrated at Mother Bethel AME Church in a combined, 11 a.m. worship service. Bishop Richard Franklin Norris, Presiding Prelate of the First Episcopal District will be the preacher. The Wilberforce University Choir will provide the music.

Monday, Feb. 15, 2010- The AME Preacher’s Meeting of Philadelphia and Vicinity will host their Annual Founder’s Day celebration at Mother Bethel. Rev. Dr. Frank Madison Reid, III, pastor of Bethel AME Church in Baltimore, MD, will be the preacher.

In addition to these events, the “Bust of Richard Allen” which was on display at the 1876 United States Centennial Celebration (http://markkellytyler.blogspot.com/2008/11/8-days-in-november-how-ame-church.html) will be on display at Mother Bethel in the Richard Allen Museum during the summer months. We plan to deliver the bust from Wilberforce University to Philadelphia on an antique train, reliving the actual route that brought it to the city back in 1876.

Let’s heed the call and make it our mission to visit the place of our ‘birth’ at least once in our lifetime!

*The Rev. Mark Kelly Tyler, Ph.D., is the Senior Pastor of Mother Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church


14. EVANGELIZE, EVANGELIZE AND EVANGELIZE:

One of our goals this Conference Year is to increase our efforts to evangelize our community. Evangelize by creating an environment conducive to conversation.

As I engage in dialogue with my congregation on methods we might use I am reminded over and over again that many find it too difficult to relate to the members of our community who are different from us. We are comfortable speaking with the people we know are from Christian families. However, we are not so comfortable spending time, interacting with the people in our community who we think may have a different belief.

We must realize, of course, the need for us to be as strong in our own belief as possible before we attempt to engage in a theological argument with anyone who is ready to debate who Jesus is and what He represents in terms of our relationship with God. When we are confident in our own relationship with Jesus we will understand how Jesus in His culture interacted with the people who believed differently than He. Jesus, throughout His earthly ministry, met people who had been taught from a tradition unlike anything that He was advocating. We are experiencing the same challenge today. As Christians we are trying to explain Jesus to “faith communities” that neither know Jesus nor believe Jesus to be the Son of God. The Bible tells us that Jesus met a Samaritan woman at the well who clearly had been taught from a tradition that did not coincide with what Jesus was teaching. However, Jesus’ example to us is that we must initially create an environment conducive to conversation. Jesus was able to build a relationship with the woman rather than approaching their theological differences from an adversarial position.

We must create an environment that will allow for civil engagement with those unlike us in order to influence our culture. As we engage in dialogue with people in our neighborhoods professing to be from other “faith communities” it is imperative that we understand Satan would have us believe these people don’t want anything to do with us. However, just as many have grown up Christian, there are many who grow up in other faiths merely as a result of cultural tradition. Many profess to be Christian just as many profess other beliefs not necessarily due to any strongly held spiritual convictions but due primarily to the family influence. For example, just as many who profess to be Christian don’t read or really know what is in the Bible, there are many Muslims who have not read and don’t really know what is in the Quran. There are members of every belief system that we can name who simply believe what they believe and understand what they are based on what tradition teaches.

We must approach our efforts to influence our community with the assumption, just as Jesus did, that everyone we meet is in search of a genuine relationship with God. Just as Jesus did, we must establish a rapport with those with whom we intend to engage.

Jesus worked to break down any barriers, establishing a conversational rapport with the woman at the well. The woman was engaged in a dialogue with Jesus not feeling threatened. Jesus let the woman know that, “Everyone who drinks this water will be thirsty again, but whoever drinks the water I give him will never thirst.”
Once Jesus had established an environment conducive to teaching and learning He then spoke supernaturally into her life breaking through the argumentative religious spirit preventing a theological debate. Finally this women, who had for years of her life understood who God was by what tradition had dictated, said to Jesus, "Sir, give me this water so that I won't get thirsty and have to keep coming here to draw water." The conversation Jesus had with the woman not only led to her faith in Christ but it also began a movement where even the city was being impacted.

As we attempt to evangelize our community, if we seek out a relationship with those different from us, we will be surprised how God can use us.

Submitted by the Reverend Dr. Charles R. Watkins, Jr.

15. AME MILITARY CHAPLAIN LED A REMEMBRANCE CEREMONY FOR THE ROYAL AIR FORCE HABBANIYA SOCIETY:

Air Force Chaplain Shawn Menchion led a remembrance ceremony for the Royal Air Force Habbaniya Society. This remembrance commemorates the conflict between the British and Iraq in the 1940's. The First Air Force Chaplain to officiate this remembrance ceremony. Chaplains continue to play in winning the hearts and minds of our Multi-National Forces Iraq partners and we are so proud of Chaplain Menchion.
Read the full article: http://www.eglin.af.mil/news/story.asp

16. YET ALIVE – A GRANDPARENT’S PRAYER:

Written by Sister Angelena Spears

Philadelphia Conference Reporter

And am I yet alive
To see my granddaughter’s face?
To look into those tiny eyes
And feel my Savior’s grace

And am I yet alive
To hold the newborn babe?
His mercy’s allowed me to see this day
And kept me from my grave

And am I yet alive
To hear the newborn cry?
God has favored me this much
I’ll dare not ask Him why

Yes, I’m yet alive!
Let heaven and nation sing!
God has shown His love for me
And not held back a thing!

17. THE AGONIES OF A WILL:

*The Rev. N.T. Pitts

I am sure that all of us know what a Will is. It is when we bequeath, hand down or leave properties and possessions to others when we depart this life.

But there is a dark side to Wills. Some Wills do more harm than good in regard to family relationships. What we don’t realize is that there are hidden agendas and purposes in Wills that are never realized by the beneficiaries. Some Wills leave the dirty work of the deceased to lawyers and relatives to be carried out. All of the hostility, resentment and love that existed before death come to light in a Will. Some Wills expose the cowardice to deal with problems and people while they lived. But there is one thing for sure Wills expose what people really were and how much they really cared while they were alive. Believe it or not some Wills are purposely drawn to pit family members against one another. Some seek revenge even in death. All Wills do not have good intentions but they are necessary.

I had the rare opportunity to be asked to sit in on the reading of a Will because some family members anticipated some resentment and even hostility. You know what; that is exactly what happened. Some members were hurt and angry and others were happy. I have seen family relationships severed for good. The mask of pretending falls and the real personalities emerge.

A former member of mine said to me one day, “Pastor, I am not going to leave a Will for my family; let the fools fight if they don’t know how to be fair to one another.” He also said, “It’s better to give people whatever you want them to have, while you are alive.” In a way he made some sense.

When I was growing up, my mother always taught us to share. No matter what it was, if one of us had something and the others didn’t she would call us together and divide it among us. I remember the time my mother took my big red apple and told me to go get a knife and she cut in into equal slices and made me give my brother and sister a slice. At that time I didn’t like it, but as I grew older I understood it. Whenever one of us needed something and the others had it we shared. We helped and protected one another. Now that our parents are gone we still practice sharing.

There was no need for a Will in our family. Whatever that was left, we took care of it in a brotherly and sisterly manner. Of course, there were some things that we disagreed on, but that did not make us disagreeable and it did not isolate us. I thank God for such an upbringing.

Lawyers sometimes profit more from some Wills than the beneficiaries.

There are families that have been divided for years and they do not communicate at all because of Wills that did not, according to them, treat them fairly. Some carry resentment for years, even to their graves.

It is surprising how a Will could destroy a family. There are some who are just waiting in anticipation for the demise of some relative in hope that they would be remembered in his or her Will. This may not sound very pleasant but it is a fact. Some will get the surprise of their lives.

There are those who have done and will do most anything to get their hands on the possessions of their “love ones.”

We must face reality. I speak from a lifetime of experiences as a teacher, pastor, coach, and an elected politician.

Even now, some famous families are battling in courts all because of the contents and intents of a Will. If you have ever been admitted to a hospital or gone in for an emergency, one of the first questions that they ask, “Do you have a living Will?”

Maybe the gentleman was right. It is better to let others know how you feel about them while you are alive. It would foster better relationships. I have seen too many “mad” folk at funerals sitting and looking cross-eyed at one another. I have seen siblings almost come to blows at the grave site even before the grave is covered.

Let me hasten to say I am not advocating that you disregard making a Will; everyone needs a Will.

What I wish to convey is that Wills should be carefully scrutinized before you make it final and consider what would be the consequences of your Will.

The questions are: What is the intent of your Will? Will it bring about a division in your family or bring closeness? Is there a hidden agenda? If you have a Will, are you comfortable with it?

I can will you my tools, but I cannot will you my skills to use them.
I can will you my money but not my morals.
I can will you my house but I cannot will you my home.
I can will you my books, but not my knowledge

You’ve got to be kidding_

A man was on his dying bed and his children had been called to make final arrangements. As they stood outside of the room, he heard them arguing about what kind of funeral he should have. They argued about the suit he should be buried in, the kind of casket, and how many limousines they should get and who should be on the programs. After hearing all of that, the old man called them into the room and said to one of them, hand me my pants and I’ll just walk down to the cemetery.

*The Rev. N.T. Pitts, author, teacher, counselor, and humorist, is a retired AME pastor who lives in Eatonville, Florida - Ptaegar@AOl.Com

18. CLERGY FAMILY CONGRATULATORY ANNOUNCEMENTS:

- The Reverend Doctor John A. Mainer, Retired Presiding Elder of the South Conference, 11th Episcopal District, celebrated his 80th Birthday on November 14, 2009, at the History Center in Orlando, Florida. His wife, Francina Mainer surprised him with a Birthday Dinner. Family, friends and members of the clergy attended the dinner. This awesome man of God was very moved by the acts of kindness shown by all guests. Most importantly, his life is a proven spirit-filled driven journey.

Submitted by Francina Lewis Mainer (wife)

Congratulatory messages can be mailed to: ame7761@aol.com

- Congratulations to Dr. Shirley Hopkins Davis, Connectional WMS First Vice President, who is the recipient of the Part-time Professional Staff Life Star Award at Hinds Community College. This is the highest award presented by the college to an employee who has shown commitment to providing quality, top-notch service to those seeking the services of the college. To those seeking services of the college, Dr. Davis has been a "shining star," one aiding them and the college in meeting needs. A special presentation was made during the surprise announcement on November 24, 2009. Additionally, she will be presented to the Board of Trustees of the college for special commendations, as well as recognized with a Life Star Lapel Pin during the Employee Awards Banquet in May 2010.

Congratulatory messages can be emailed to:

sdavis9107@bellsouth.net

- Mrs. Mary M. Hughes, mother of Presiding Elder Thomas M. Hughes, South District of the Chicago Conference of the 4th Episcopal District, celebrated her 96th birthday on Saturday, November 21, 2009. She is a life member of the Women's Missionary Society and hails from the 7th Episcopal District. She is the widow of the late Reverend Suspencer M. Hughes. A birthday celebration was held in her honor in New York City on Saturday, November 21, 2009, sponsored by Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church.


Please send birthday congratulations in care of:
Mrs. Mary M. Hughes
230-46 147th Avenue
Rosedale, New York 11413

Or

petmhughes299@sbcglobal.net

- LeTishia Sade Dowdell of Clarksville, Tennessee and Lawrence Daniel Johnson of Hendersonville, Tennessee will be married December 12, 2009 at Wightman Chapel at the Scarritt-Bennett Center. LeTishia Sade Dowdell is the daughter of Mr. Jeffery L. and Cynthia Dowdell of Clarksville, Tennessee and Lawrence Daniel Johnson is the son of Presiding Elder Ralph E. and Patricia A. Johnson of Hendersonville. The bride-elect is the granddaughter of Mr. Eddie James and Christine Jackson of Pelham, Georgia and Ms. Willie Ruth Williams of Pelham, and the late Mr. Roy Dowdell. LeTishia Sade Dowdell is a graduate of Ross View High School and Austin Peay State University; she is a teacher at Ross View Middle School. The future bridegroom is the grandson of the late Rev. Daniel and Dorothy Bender and Mrs. Lucile Johnson of Hendersonville and the late Rev. L.W. Johnson; he is a graduate of Hendersonville High School and Lipscomb University, he is employed by Comcast.

Congratulatory messages can be emailed to Presiding Elder and Mrs. Ralph E. Johnson: ameomega@bellsouth.net

- Justin Ross Lawrence, son Mr. Donald E. and Dr. Doris Lawrence and Geneva Marie Watford-Lawrence, daughter of Mr. Thomas and the Rev. Dr. Letitia Williams-Watford were wed Wednesday, November 25, 2009, at Midnight, in the home of the bride's parents, in Montgomery, Alabama.

The Reverend Dr. Patricia Outlaw performed the wedding ceremony.

The bride's mother, the Rev. Dr. Williams-Watford is the pastor of The Chapel at Pike Road, in Pike Road, Alabama. The bride's Godmother, Dr. Outlaw, is the pastor of St. Paul AME Church, Adamsville, Alabama. Both churches are in the Ninth Episcopal District, where Bishop James Davis is the Presiding Prelate.

Congratulations may be forwarded by mail to:

Mr. and Mrs. Justin and Geneva Watford-Lawrence
17`8 South Perry Street
Montgomery, Alabama 36104

Email to gmarie.watford@gmail.com ; justinrlawrence@gmail.com or drtish1@aol.com

- The Rev. Eraina M. Ross-Aseme and Patrick Chukwudifu Aseme, the proud parents of Pamela Ifunanya Aseme are happy to announce that their daughter is a candidate for the degree of Bachelor of Science in Chemistry from Missouri Western State University in St. Joseph, Missouri on December 12, 2009. A reception will be held in her honor on December 19, 2009 at 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. at The View Community Center, 13500 Byars Road, Grandview, Missouri 64030.

Words of encouragement for Pamela can be sent to:

e_aseme@sbcglobal.net or mail to: Pamela Aseme, 7312 Harry Truman Dr., Grandview, Missouri 64030.

19. 17TH DISTRICT EPISCOPAL FAMILY BEREAVEMENT:

Prisca Mwenya Mulenga, the older sister of Mrs. Yvonne Kawimbe, Episcopal Supervisor of the 17th Episcopal District, was called from labor to reward on Monday, November 23, 2009 afternoon after a short illness.

She was saved, a Registered Nurse and a mother of two. She was preceded in death by their parents; their mother who was called to reward about 7 months ago; and father a number of years ago.

She leaves to cherish her memory - her two children [daughter & son], her sister Supervisor Yvonne Kawimbe, brother-in-law Bishop Paul J.M. Kawimbe, two brothers Henry & Willie Mulenga; and a score of relatives and friends.

The Home-going Celebration is on Thursday November 26th, 2009 at Winners Chapel in Lusaka, Zambia, Africa.

Please continue to pray for Bishop Kawimbe, Supervisor Yvonne Kawimbe, & the rest of the family. God bless.

Contact Information for Bishop And Mrs. Paul J. M. Kawimbe Seventeenth Episcopal District:

Mailing Address:
AME Church
17th Episcopal District
P.O. Box 36628
Lusaka, Zambia

Street Address:
AME Church
Indeco House
16th Floor Western Wing
Cairo Road
Lusaka 10101

Residence Mailing Address:
P.O. Box 33341
Lusaka, Zambia

011-260-1225967 - Phone/FAX
011-260-97630894 - Home
Email: kawimbeforbishop@yahoo.com

20. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

We regret to inform you of the passing of the Reverend Carole Clark, a superannuated Itinerant Elder in the North Ohio Conference of the Third Episcopal District.

The funeral service has been held.

Expressions of sympathy may be sent to:
Mr. Leroy Clark
1801 E 12th Street, Apt 423
Cleveland, Ohio 44103

21. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

We regret to announce the passing of Sister Helen Robinson on Monday, November 23, 2009. Sister Robinson was the mother of the Rev. John Fuller, Pastor of St. Paul AME Church, Mt Pleasant, Texas; North Texas Conference.

Service Arrangements for Sister Helen Robinson:

The funeral service has been held.

Condolences may be sent to:

The Rev. John F. Fuller
9944 Walnut Street #1068
Dallas, Texas 75243

Telephone: (214) 622-0304
Email: atfuller82@yahoo.com

22. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

We regret to announce the passing of Minister Bridget Frasier on Sunday, November 22, 2009. Minister Frasier was the only daughter of the Rev. Angela Sumpter, Pastor of Trinity AME Church, Waco, Texas; Northwest Texas Conference.

The funeral service has been held.

Condolences may be sent to:

The Rev. Angela Sumpter
1919 Michele Drive
Killeen, Texas 76542
(254) 618-9319
angela.sumpter@killeenisd.org

23. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

We regret to inform you of the passing of Brother Anthony O. Wheaton, son of the late Rev. Earl Anderson and Mrs. Arsie L. Anderson, on Thursday, November 19, 2009 in Stockton, California.

Service Arrangements for Brother Anthony O. Wheaton:

The funeral service has been held.

Expressions of sympathy may be sent to:

Mrs. Arsie L. Anderson
1721 Bonaire Circle
Stockton, California 95210
Phone: (209) 478-5158

Or emailed to: arcieanderson@sbcglobal.net

24. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICES AND CONGRATULATORY ANNOUNCEMENTS PROVIDED BY:

The Clergy Family Information Center
Bishop Carolyn Tyler Guidry, Chair
Commission on Social Action

Mrs. Ora L. Easley, Administrator
AMEC Clergy Family Information Center
Email: Amespouses1@bellsouth.net
Phone: (615) 837-9736
Voice Mail: (615) 833-6936
Fax: (615) 833-3781
Cell: (615) 403-7751

25. CONDOLENCES TO THE BEREAVED FROM THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER:

The Chair of the Commission on Publications, the Right Reverend Richard Franklin Norris; 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.