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
1. EDITORIAL –THE ART OF WAR BY SUN TZU CAN PROVIDE LEARNING LESSONS FOR PASTORS (AND LAITY), PART 2:
Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III
The 20th Editor of The Christian Recorder
Every person who is alive today and has served in the military can be certain that his or her commander studied Sun Tzu (pronounced, Sun Sue). And, most likely if the person served in combat operations, every enemy commander studied Sun Tzu’s The Art of War.
We have all heard stories about the military’s dictum of having to “Hurry and wait.”
When I was in the Army, it seemed that we spent a lot of time “hurrying up and waiting.” It was a nuisance at first, but as I moved up in the ranks, I better understood why we spent so much time waiting. We spent time waiting because military leaders wanted to double and triple-check the operation to insure the operation’s success; failure was not an option because failure could end an officer’s career; even in the instance of a mundane operation as getting from point “A” to point “B” or executing a significant event as a combat operation.
The functions of the military and the church are alike in many ways
I suspect that church programs that fail, fail because of a lack of planning by the pastor; uncommitted or under-committed local church officers; and even unmotivated members who care little about the religious program.
Oftentimes local church apathy exists because the pastoral and laity leadership fail to communicate the vision and mission of the church program. Failure is often indicative of insufficient prior planning. Meticulous planning might mean waiting a little longer to insure that everything is in place and waiting might be an inconvenience, but it might insure success.
One might ask, “Waiting to do what?”
Practice. There is no shame in practicing.
When successful units go to war, they practice. Before the Normandy Invasion during Operation Overlord, soldiers were sent to Florida to practice water assault landings. Before Desert Storm, soldiers were sent to the desert to practice.
Practice makes perfect
Before a major church program like fundraising is executed, a practice “dry-run” might be helpful. A practice session could include sessions to show fundraisers how to approach parishioners when asking for donations and the appropriate way to solicit advertisements from businesses. I don’t think it’s wise to assume that all people know how to do that.
Choirs sing better and contribute more spiritually to the worship service when they practice. Ushers do a better job when they practice. Worship services would be executed more efficiently if more churches practiced the order of worship, and especially if pastors and worship participants practiced the order of service for Holy Communion, Baptisms, weddings and funerals. I suspect sermons might be better delivered if more preachers practiced. I was taught, “Practice makes perfect” and I am sure most people reading this editorial were told that too.
Sun Tzu said, “There are five fundamental factors for success in war – Weather, terrain, leadership, military doctrine and most importantly – moral influence.”
When local church programs are established; whether it be a fund-raising effort, an evangelistic program to bring more members to Christ and into the church; or a building program, there needs to be strategic planning so everyone knows the important timelines and how the program will work.
Everyone needs to know the “Avenue of approach” - that is, how we are going to implement the program and who does what, and when they will do it.
Pastors and local church leaders need to know the weather or the “climate”- that is the mood and the receptivity of the congregation for the planned activity. Pastors and local church leaders need to have a sense of what support they can expect and what opposition they can expect.
Pastors and local church leaders need to know the rules of engagement, i.e., what can and what cannot be done. In the African Methodist Episcopal Church, raffles are not allowed, so there is no sense in wasting time about whether a raffle should be held and whether or not a raffle is the most efficient way to raise funds.
Who is in charge
There needs to be a clear delineation of who is in charge and who is in charge of what; clear lines of responsibility need to be established and the responsibility protocols adhered to. We do not have to “like” the person in charge, but we need to respect the position of leadership and be obedient to the person who are in charge. There is nothing “wimpy” about being obedient and respectful to the person in charge. If the battle is going to be won, soldiers must work together and respect authority.
Moral and ethical behavior is the foundation that is taught to every soldier, from private to general, and is regularly reinforced
Every activity of the church should exude spiritual focus, integrity, moral strength, and the highest ethical standards. For instance, we do not raise funds by engaging in the selling of pirated clothing, DVDs and CDs.
Can the battle be won?
Sun Tzu says that a commander should not engage in a battle that cannot be won. Jesus said the same thing another way, when he said a king does not go to war and a person does not start constructing a building without first counting the cost.
What Jesus said and what Sun Tzu said is applicable for combat operations and for religious programs and is equally applicable in personal relationships. The cost has got to be counted and a determination of success and failure has to be considered. There is no sense in getting in a fight that can’t be won. Would I jump into the boxing ring with Muhammad Ali? No. Would I get into a basketball game with Michael Jordan? No.
Jesus said, “Count the cost.” Sun Tzu said, “Don’t get in a fight you can’t win” Both were saying the same thing; consider the outcome, be cognizant of the actual and hidden costs, be cognizant of the casualties, and understand that in any operation, whether it be a military combat operation, a local church fund raising effort, a disagreement in the family or in a local church conflict.
The most sobering moment in my military career occurred when I was a student in the Command and General Staff College at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas and we were in a class dealing with offensive and defensive combat operations in which we had to factor in combat deaths and casualties. It was an epiphany moment and the notion of “counting the cost” became a reality for me because that’s when I realized that commanders cannot go into a battle with the presupposition that there will be no casualties or deaths. I learned that the military has a formula for estimating deaths in offensive and defensive combat operations; more deaths are sustained in offensive operations. Commanders need to know when to retreat or when to reconstitute their forces. That class was the first time that I realized that commanders had to factor in their war plans, estimates of combat deaths and casualties. There will always be casualties in war and there will be casualties in all of the “battles of life.”
In my first pastorate at Shorter Chapel AME Church in Paris, Kentucky, we decided to purchase a new organ. I was young in the pastorate and I thought everybody was in agreement. Everybody did not agree and as a result of that purchase several members stopped attending; they were casualties. The organ is still in the church. There will be casualties even when good things are being done; and I guess I should say, there will be casualties especially when good things are being done in the church because the church is a battle ground for spiritual warfare.
The Bible’s greatest military strategist knew where to fight
In any battle, knowing the terrain and where to fight is important. In the religious sense, any church conflict or battle, and there will be church fights; pastors and local church leaders need to know the “terrain.” Conflicts within the church are spiritual and must be resolved in the spiritual realm and pastors and church leaders must resist the temptation to “fight” or deal with spiritual issues in a worldly way. Fighting spiritual battles in a worldly way will most often lead to defeat and a high loss of casualties.
One of the world’s greatest tacticians and the greatest military strategist in the Bible, Joshua, provides the best example of using the terrain and knowing where to fight. When the Israelites entered the Promised Land, Joshua concentrated on the cities where the Israelites had a strategic military advantage; in the highlands and not in the open plains. The Israelites coming off of a 40-year trek in the wilderness were lightly armed infantry foot soldiers. They could move about effectively in rough hilly terrain. They didn’t have a cavalry, i.e., camels, horses and chariots, so it would have been futile for Joshua to try to fight on the coastal plains. Joshua concentrated the battles in the hills; and by the end of his military campaign, he had defeated the armies of thirty-one kings.
Pastors and local church leaders need to know where to fight the battles and must know where their strengths are concentrated and where the strengths of the opposing side is concentrated. And, perhaps more importantly pastors and local church leaders need to know that the Kingdom battle is the Lord’s battle and not our battle.
The Bottom-line
Assessment
Strategic planning
Practice makes perfect
Observe the Rules of Engagement
Know who is in charge and who is responsible for what and respect authority
Moral, ethical, and spiritual behavior
Count the cost and factor in the negative as well as the positive – assess and reassess
Never engage in a battle that cannot be won
Know your strengths and your weaknesses
Know where to fight your battles
2. READER RESPONSE TO EDITORIAL AND OTHER ISSUES:
- To the Editor:
It has been a long that we are not talking, but even in this silence I have been receiving the very important and useful news and updates that keeps us abreast with our connection from The Christian Recorder Online. I even tried to read the bible in 90 day, but I failed next time I will try with the church.
Last Sunday, some brothers and sisters from Maputo district came to worship with us in Bethel AME where I am pastor, and after that I invited then to came to have a lunch in our house, after a lunch we had a fellowship time and we sat to watch the video of the Mozambique annual conference closing sermon, preached by Bishop Messiah “when God give you a second chance”. A sister who attended the General Conference suggested me to hear a sermon preached by the Bishop Bryant; she wasn’t sure about the subject, all she knew is that it changed her life. It's been two days have passed since I spoke with her but I still see how her face shined when she tried to explain me about what she saw in the pulpit.
So I have been searching in the internet to find if is there anything about that, and I have not found anything. I was about to surrender and yesterday when I was driving back home from job I thought about you. So here I am: I don’t know if there is any places where I can purchase that electronically, it don’t matter if it is video, tape or any of audio formats, I am desperately looking for it.
The Rev. Dionisio J. Mazuze, Bethel AME Church, Xai – Xai District, Mozambique Annual Conference, 18th Episcopal District
3. THE AFRICAN METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH SOCIAL ACTION COMMISSION INITIATIVE:
It is an Emergency!!
Election Day Countdown Action Alerts
A Call to Action…
Fellow African Methodists,
Today we are one month away from Election Day 2010 in a year that will be critical in defining the future of our country and state.
As the Social Action Commission we charge you to be vigilant about the upcoming critical elections.
Every member is asked to be focused and committed to ensuring that our communities are Educated, Mobilized and Registered.
Our Countdown Action Alerts are an effort to provide you with information and resources that you can share with your network and to motivate you to be proactive during this election season in reaching out to new voters and encouraging family, friends and colleagues to Vote on Tuesday, November 2nd.
Check in your state for the first day to request vote by mail/absentee ballots and the last day for the elections office to receive the request. Early voting is encouraged especially if you plan to be out of town on Election Day or your work day makes it difficult to get the polls.
Not just a difference, but we can make the difference. As a community we, in the faith community have the power to make the 2010 elections count…for our children, our community and our Church. It is our legacy!
We must not waste this opportunity to give voice to our needs and concerns. On November 2, 2010, we must move our initiatives into real action by going to the polls and casting our vote. If we are to be recognized as a formidable force within our nation then it is crucial that we turn out in large numbers to vote. Now is our greatest opportunity to generate enough momentum to create an atmosphere that -- because of our large voter turnout -- will provide us with influence in not only the White House but Congress and the State Houses too.
However, to be the difference in determining the quality of education in the 21st century, the access of affordable housing, the availability of “work”, we must vote November 2nd.
• To be the difference in determining whether racial profiling continues to be an all-too-real, yet undocumented reality for African-Americans, we must vote.
• To be the difference in determining whether the federal government will work to expand and ensure economic opportunities for all Americans, we must vote on November 2nd.
• To end the combat in Afghanistan, we must vote. To insure healthcare for all we must vote on November 2nd.
Seek Voter coalitions are come prepared to report those opportunities at all church meeting - ministries, auxiliaries, and in the community. Full participation is encouraged.
• Until that time, each member is urged to register anyone who may have doubt about their eligibility.
• More will be reported as we receive your reports.
Create list of “rides to the poll” resources. We are encouraging Absentee Voting/Vote by Mail and Early Voting.
We must increase voter turnout in our community. In the USA, there is a need for outreach to potential new voters, voters who are mobility challenged (nursing homes, senior citizens, developmentally disabled), ex-felons, and voters who have missed the most recent elections.
We ask that each member make a commitment to reach no fewer than five (5) to vote, keep track of them until they vote either via early voting, absentee voting or at the polls. For those that you register, please keep their names and contact information to report to us.
Bottom-line: If you have the right to vote, use it. Young and old, rich and poor, you and I, by bus, car or on foot must get to the poll to cast our vote on or before November 2nd - Let’s just do it.
For more information contact our Social Action Director/Consultant at jdupontwalker@gmail.com
4. WE MUST BE INVOLVED AND COMMITTED TO EQUAL TREATMENT FOR ALL:
Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III
I have updated the German anti-Nazi theologian and Lutheran pastor, the Rev. Martin Niemöller’s poem, “First they came.....”
In United States they first came for the African American slaves,
and I didn't speak up because I wasn't an African American slave.
Then they came for the Native Americans,
and I didn't speak up because I wasn't a Native American.
Then they came for the Catholics,
and I didn't speak up because I was a Protestant.
Then they came for the immigrants,
and I didn't speak up because I wasn't an immigrant.
Then they came for the undocumented immigrants,
and I didn't speak up because I was a U.S. Citizen.
Then they came for the Gays,
and I didn’t speak up because I was straight
Then they came for the Muslims,
and I didn't speak up because I was a Christian.
Then they came for me —
and by that time no one was left to speak up
5. STUDENTS SHOOT FOR THE STARS AT ACADEMIC CAMP:
*The Rev. Linda E. Mouzon
According to the National Governors Association’s Best Practices Administration, “The ‘achievement gap’ is a matter of race and class.” Plausible responses to this finding include apathetic head shaking to program implementation to improve academic performance. Bishop Adam J. Richardson, Jr. and Mrs. Connie S. Richardson chose this response by spearheading an Academic Summer Camp for Second Episcopal District students from July 14 – 16, 2010 at the Hampton Convention Center in Hampton Virginia. Eighty-five students from across the District were challenged to Shoot for the Stars in reading, mathematics, and science. Partnering with National Geographic, NOAA National Weather, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), and he Chesapeake Bay Foundation, the camp offered a rigorous academic experience. The Reverend Andre P. Jefferson and members of Bethel Hampton leant invaluable service to the project.
Campers were given bags filled with supplies donated by the FAA. According to the campers, bullying, intimidation, name calling, and ostracism are common reactions during the school year by peers toward students who excel academically. Dr. LaTonya Smalls facilitated the opening workshop and challenged the students to shine despite negative reaction from peers.
Language arts teachers, Carla Kinkaid and Gloria Keaton, utilized the USA TODAY curriculum which enhanced campers’ reading strategies and comprehension. Math teachers, Chanel Blake and Chante Garrett, provided comprehensive instruction which challenged campers to increase their problem solving skills. Students designed motivational portfolios that contained individual career goals and a list of requisite courses to help them meet their stated goals.
National Geographic staff, under the direction of Gwen Faulkner, Teacher-in-Residence, afforded campers opportunities to participate in two projects: Bioblitz and FieldScope. The Bioblitz introduced students to skills real scientists use in the field such as observation, recording, identifying, and photographing species at the Great Dismal Swamp in Virginia. During the FieldScope Project, the campers used maps, caught fish in nets, and collected data as they engaged in hands-on environmental activities aboard the Chesapeake Bay Foundation’s boats. Information gathered by campers will be uploaded to websites utilized by scientists internationally.
The NOAA National Weather Service, under the leadership of The Rev. Mary C. Newton and Jannie Ferrell, offered interactive didactic experiences at the Wakefield Forecast Office. Students were exposed to careers in meteorology; they also used technology and scientific instruments to predict the weather. Instructional activities taught basic weather and climate literacy. Campers enjoyed games about lightening, sun safety and weather jeopardy. They observed weather forecasts on line and learned how to use instruments to analyze data.
During the closing celebration, Bishop and Mrs. Richardson awarded certificates to the campers. Students completed evaluation forms, noting three things learned and two ways to apply that knowledge. Campers loudly cheered one another and the staff.
Summer educational programming could be considered a risky venture since summer usually marks a respite from school. However, the students participating in Shoot for the Stars indicated overwhelmingly the camp was a great success. In fact they wanted more and unanimously stated that future academics camps should be at least a week long.
*The Rev. Linda E. Mouzon is the pastor of Union Bethel A.M.E. Church in Randallstown, Maryland
6. FOUR VIEWS OF GOD FROM THE BOOK, AMERICA'S FOUR GODS: WHAT WE SAY ABOUT GOD — AND WHAT THAT SAYS ABOUT US:
Paul Froese and Christopher Bader, sociologists at Baylor University in Waco, Texas. Their new book, America's Four Gods: What We Say About God — And What That Says About Us, examines our diverse visions of the Almighty and why they matter. Froese and Bader's research wound up defining four ways in which Americans see God:
- The Authoritative God. When conservatives Sarah Palin or Glenn Beck proclaim that America will lose God's favor unless we get right with him, they're rallying believers in what Froese and Bader call an Authoritative God, one engaged in history and meting out harsh punishment to those who do not follow him. About 28% of the nation shares this view, according to Baylor's 2008 findings.
"They divide the world by good and evil and appeal to people who are worried, concerned and scared," Froese says. "They respond to a powerful God guiding this country, and if we don't explicitly talk about (that) God, then we have the wrong God or no God at all."
- The Benevolent God. When President Obama says he is driven to live out his Christian faith in public service, or political satirist Stephen Colbert mentions God while testifying to Congress in favor of changing immigration laws, they're speaking of what the Baylor researchers call a Benevolent God. This God is engaged in our world and loves and supports us in caring for others, a vision shared by 22% of Americans, according to Baylor's findings.
"Rhetoric that talks about the righteous vs. the heathen doesn't appeal to them," Froese says. "Their God is a force for good who cares for all people, weeps at all conflicts and will comfort all."
Asked about the Baylor findings, Philip Yancey, author of What Good Is God?, says he moved from the Authoritative God of his youth — "a scowling, super-policeman in the sky, waiting to smash someone having a good time" — to a "God like a doctor who has my best interest at heart, even if sometimes I don't like his diagnosis or prescriptions."
- The Critical God. The poor, the suffering and the exploited in this world often believe in a Critical God who keeps an eye on this world but delivers justice in the next, Bader says.
Bader says this view of God — held by 21% of Americans — was reflected in a sermon at a working-class neighborhood church the researchers visited in Rifle, Colo., in 2008. Pastor Del Whittington's theme at Open Door Church was " 'Wait until heaven, and accounts will be settled.' "
Bader says Whittington described how " 'our cars that are breaking down here will be chariots in heaven. Our empty bank accounts will be storehouses with the Lord.' "
- The Distant God. Though about 5% of Americans are atheists or agnostics, Baylor found that nearly one in four (24%) see a Distant God that booted up the universe, then left humanity alone.
7. THE REV. MARK WHITLOCK AND CHRIST OUR REDEEMER AME CHURCH FEATURED ON CNN’ FOCUS ON RELIGION IN AMERICA:
The Rev. Mark Whitlock, pastor of Christ Our Redeemer AME Church, Orange County, California is featured in October 4, 2010 CNN that focused upon religion in America.
Information about Christ Our Redeemer AME Church from http://wiki.ocregister.com/Communities/Irvine/Religion/Christ_Our_Redeemer:
“Christ Our Redeemer AME Church is the largest AME church in Orange County. As of August 2009, the congregation includes over 1,750 multi-racial members. In 2006, COR build a thirteen thousand square foot sanctuary and community center.
Over the years, COR has developed several ministries. The COR Chorale, Young Adult Choir, Women’s Missionary Society, Bible University, Men’s Ministry, Women’s Bible Study, Finance Committee, Young People’s Dept., Children’s Church, Sons Of Success, Daughters of Destiny, Imani Phi Christ sorority, Usher Board, Church, Hip Hop Sunday, Young Billionaires Club, Pentecost Revival, and Multi-Media Ministry.
Core concepts: A gathering place for young spiritual seekers to find their purpose in life through the Word of God. We provide help for the homeless, clothing for the naked and food for the hungry.”
“We [Christ our Redeemer AME Church] welcome new members to belong, behave, and believe as seasoned members of COR! This is the wise beginning to a living end!”
8. REMINDERS FOR CHURCH BULLETINS:
- (1) October is National Breast Awareness Month
President Barack Obama proclaimed October as National Breast Cancer Awareness Month in an effort to raise awareness and support continuing breast cancer research. To honor those who have lost their lives to breast cancer and support this important cause, many Americans display pink ribbons at the office, on their clothing or on their vehicles. Many communities and organizations around the nation hold walks, rallies and various events to raise money for breast cancer research.
- (2) Daylight Saving Time ENDS on the first Sunday in November
Daylight Saving Time ends on November 7, 2010 - when you set the clocks back – “Fall Back”
Daylight Saving Time (DST) always begins on the second Sunday of March and ends on the first Sunday of November.
In the United States, Arizona, Hawaii, and most of Indiana do not observe daylight time.
Daylight Saving Time (DST) schedule around the world: http://wiki.answers.com/Q/When_does_Daylight_Saving_Time_begin_and_end_in_2010
9. BISHOP SARAH F. DAVIS, OF THE 16TH EPISCOPAL DISTRICT OF THE AFRICAN METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH HAS BEEN NOMINATED FOR VICE-CHAIR OF THE WORLD METHODIST COUNCIL:
The Nominating Committee of the World Methodist Council has nominated Bishop Sarah F. Davis, of the 16th Episcopal District of the African Methodist Episcopal Church for Vice-Chair of the World Methodist Council. The election of Officers for the World Methodist Council will take place at the World Methodist Council meeting in Durban, South Africa, August 1-3, 20011.
Bishop Davis currently serves as chair of the Strategic Planning Committee and is a member of the Executive Committee of the World Methodist Council.
Congratulations are in order for Bishop Sarah F. Davis nomination as Vice-Chair of the World Methodist Council.
Bishop White said, “It is my understanding that this is a first for the African Methodist Episcopal Church. The LORD’s Name be praised.”
**Submitted Bishop John F. White, Ecumenical & Urban Affairs Officer and Endorsing Agent for the African Methodist Episcopal Church
10. CHAPLAIN IONA SMITH PROMOTED TO MAJOR IN THE CIVIL AIR PATROL:
Chaplain Iona Smith of the Civil Air Patrol has been promoted to Major in the Civil Air Patrol Phoenix Swuadro in Fort Worth TX.
**Submitted Bishop John F. White, Ecumenical & Urban Affairs Officer and Endorsing Agent for the African Methodist Episcopal Church
11. THE 111TH CHURCH ANNIVERSARY OF TURNER MONUMENTAL AME CHURCH, 66 HOWARD ST. NE IN ATLANTA, GEORGIA:
The celebration began with a Pre-Anniversary worship service on October 4, 2010 at 7:00 p.m. The Reverend Gregory V. Eason, Sr., and the Big Bethel AME Church family were the guests.
The Anniversary celebration will begin on Sunday, October 11, 2010 with Pastor Bruce L. Francis delivering the message during the 11:00 a.m. worship service and St. Mark AME Church of Atlanta will be our guests at 3:00 p.m. worship service. Their pastor the Reverend Larry Hudson will be the guest preacher.
Submitted by the Rev. Bruce L. Francis
12. SIXTH EPISCOPAL DISTRICT MID-YEAR CONVOCATION:
Bishop William P. DeVeaux, Presiding Prelate
Dr. Pam DeVeaux, Episcopal Supervisor
The Reverend Ronald L. Slaughter, Host Pastor
The Reverend Benjamin Ridley, Host Presiding Elder
Saint Paul African Methodist Episcopal Church
2501 Shurling Drive
Macon, Georgia 31211
October 14 – 16, 2010
Thursday, October 14, 2010
1:00 P.M. Bishop Meets with Presiding Elders
2:00 – 5:00 P.M. District Ministries Meet (WMS, Sons of Allen, Christian Education, DMC, Lay, WIM, Spouses, and RAYAC)
3:00 – 5:00 P.M. Presiding Elders’ Council Meeting: Presiding Elder R. Nathaniel Neal, President
4:00 P.M. Sexual Misconduct Prevention Training (For Lay & Clergy Who Have Not Completed Training): Dr. Dee Haigler, SED Human Resources Director
6:00 P.M. Preachers in Praise: (Women’s Missionary Society Scholarship Benefit, Mrs. Dorothy Ridley, Coordinator)
7:00 P. M. Opening Worship: Preacher: The Reverend Philip R. Cousin, Jr., Pastor, Saint Joseph’s A.M.E. Church, Durham, N.C.
Friday, October 15, 2010
7:30 A.M. Breakfast
8:15 A.M. Praise Team
8:30 A.M. Bible Study Presenter: The Reverend Kenneth Marcus, Pastor, Turner Chapel A.M.E. Church, Marietta, Georgia
9:30 – 11:45 A.M. Session I: Transformative Leadership: Dr. Jeffrey L. Tribble, Sr., Assistant Professor of Ministry Columbia Theological Seminary
Noon Hour Of Power Preacher: The Reverend Bernard Clarke, Pastor, Greater Gaines Chapel A.M.E. Church, Savannah, Georgia
1:30 P.M. Lunch
3:00 P.M. Session II: Technology: Marvel or Monster: Jerome A. Gratigny, New Media Instructional Specialist, Mercer University
4:30 P.M. Session III: 1ST Year Celebration of Enhancement Campaign
6:00 P.M. Dinner
7:00 P.M. Evening Worship Preacher: Presiding Elder David Rhone, North Atlanta District
Saturday, October 16, 2010
7:30 A.M. Annual Prayer Breakfast: Ministers' Spouses, Widows/Widowers Organization, Plus PKs
8:15 P.M. Praise Team
8:30 A.M. Bible Study Presenter: The Reverend Kenneth Marcus, Pastor, Turner Chapel A.M.E. Church, Marietta, Georgia
9:30 A.M. WEB – Based Pastoral Reporting: The Reverend Dr. John Foster
11:00 A.M. Closing Worship; Preacher: The Reverend Dr. Jamal Bryant, The Empowerment Temple A.M.E. Church, Baltimore, Maryland
13. MOREHOUSE COLLEGE TO HOST AWARD-WINNING COMPOSER PETER BUFFETT:
“Life Is What You Make It: A Concert & Conversation with Peter Buffett”
ATLANTA, October 6, 2010 - In a 90-minute performance, Emmy Award-winning composer, philanthropist and author, Peter Buffett will bring the message of his book to the stage. Life Is What You Make It delves into following one’s passions over conventions, transcending one’s circumstances or status, taking up the reins of one’s destiny, and living life to its fullest.
The concert will take place in the newly opened Ray Charles Performing Arts Center and Music Academic Building on the campus of Morehouse College on Monday, October 11 at 7:30 p.m. It is free and open to the public. Buffett’s concert will be one of the first in a series of performances in the new Emma and Joe Adams Concert Hall, which is part of the 76,000 square-foot facility that brings music performance and teaching together in a state-of-the-art, technologically savvy building.
“The exquisite Ray Charles Performing Arts Center offers high-tech, multimedia equipment and a beautiful new Steinway D Concert Grand piano that will add to the special pleasure of Mr. Buffet’s concert,” said Uzee Brown, chair of the music department at Morehouse. “It should be an exciting and rewarding experience for all; especially those students of performance and composition who hold special interest in multimedia works.”
The event promises to be a thought-provoking evening that will inspire you to follow passions over convention and do your bliss. By drawing upon his own life story and experiences, the Emmy Award-winning composer, philanthropist and author, discusses how important it is for each person to define his or her own path in life, regardless of their wealth or background. Buffett ultimately conveys that it is ones values—and what we are able to give back to society—that shape and define us as individuals.
Buffett’s “Concert & Conversation” combines a cello-accompanied live piano/vocal performance, multimedia and personal stories to give the audience an authentic, inspirational and impactful evening. The event is the live companion to Buffett’s recently released New York Times Best-Selling book, Life Is What You Make It (Random House/Harmony Books), which Bill Clinton calls, “a wise and inspiring book that should be required reading for every young person seeking to find his or her place in the world.”
“Although I never had the opportunity to meet Ray Charles, I have been a long time admirer of his work,” says Buffett, who began his career in San Francisco writing music for commercials. He has since released 15 records on various labels and owns two labels himself. He is known for scoring the memorable “Fire Dance” scene in the Oscar-winning film Dances With Wolves.
Event Details:
What: Life Is What You Make It: A Concert and Conversation with Peter Buffett
When: Monday, October 11, 2010 7:30 pm
Where: Ray Charles Performing Arts Center and Music Academic Building, Morehouse College, 830 Westview Drive, SW (on the corner of Joseph E. Lowery Blvd. and West End Avenue)
Ray Charles and Morehouse
The Ray Charles Performing Arts Center and Music Education Building is named after the 12-time Grammy award-winner who was known in the music industry at the “Genius.” Charles’ relationship with Morehouse began 9 years ago when he was invited to Atlanta to perform with the college’s jazz ensemble. He received an honorary degree from Morehouse and became a long-time friend and supporter of the college. His support came in the form of an initial $2-million commitment to help Morehouse find, educate and inspire the next generation of music pioneers. Since then, the college has received an additional $3-million from the Ray Charles Foundation. The building includes 12 faculty studios, nine practice rooms, two rehearsal rooms and three academic labs, one of which is the David Geffen Keyboard Digital Music Laboratory.
Peter Buffett
Peter Buffett is an Emmy Award-winning composer, musician, author and philanthropist. His work with numerous non-profit organizations, including the NoVo Foundation, of which he is the co-chair, has helped him become a well-known activist for social concerns. Previous human rights-driven music collaborations by Buffett include “Blood Into Gold,” featuring Grammy-nominated recording artist Akon and “A Song for Everyone” featuring Angelique Kidjo. Buffett is currently performing his “Life is What You Make It: A Concert & Conversation with Peter Buffett” series around the country to support his recently released book, Life Is What You Make It (Random House/Harmony Books).
14. ETHICAL PRACTICES WHEN VISITING THE SICK AND HOMEBOUND:
*The Rev. N.T. Pitts
Through years of experiences and observations, it has become incumbent upon me to share some information about ethical practices when visiting the sick and homebound that would help young ministers; and maybe some older ones too.
I would like to share some of what I learned and provide some points about some of the things that ministers should do and should not do, when visiting the sick and shut-in.
First, the worse mistake some of our ministers make when they are sent to a pastoral charge is to be more interested in their financial package rather than people. The parishioners pastors are sent to should be the priority.
The initial conversation should not be about the financial package, but rather inquiry should be made about the people; how many are sick and where they are. Newly appointed pastors should inquire about the spiritual atmosphere of the congregation.
Now, let me get to the focus of this article – ethical practices when visiting the sick and homebound.
Visiting the sick in hospitals and nursing homes:
- Never ask a sick person what is wrong with them. If they want you to know they will tell you.
- When making a pastoral visit, do not “take up residence”; rather, do what you came to do and leave.
- Do not sit on patients bed or eat any food you may be offered. Do what you came to do and leave.
- When visiting the sick, don’t be loud in performing your pastoral duties; you don’t have to be loud to love. I have heard ministers making loud pastoral visits in a hospital room.
- If you are administering the Lord’s Supper, do not “pedal” it to others. In doing so, you may give them a false sense of security, especially when they do not know why you are giving it to your member.
- If you are visiting a person who is not conscious of the Sacrament you are giving them, don’t force them to partake of it; for we read, “Do this in remembrance of Me”; just pray for them and leave.
- You should never whisper to other people, even relatives while in the patient’s room. If you need to whisper, leave the room.
- If you can avoid it, don’t go visiting in the hospital before 9 a.m. because you will just get in the way of the medical staff.
- Do not talk to a sick person about another sick person or about a person who had just died; someone had already done so or the decision may have been made not the share that information.
- Be careful in selecting which colors to wear when visiting the hospital. You may not be cognizant of the fact that colors have much to do with a patient’s mood. The colors I suggest that you avoid wearing when visiting the sick are, green, purple and orange/yellow. Believe me I have tested this over the years. Colors have a lot to do with one’s mental and emotional state.
Now for home visitation
- Never “drop in” on a sick person at home. Always give advance notice and the approximate time of arrival. This will give them and the family ample time to prepare for your visit.
- When visiting the home, especially if a male is visiting a female, try your best to get a female to accompany you. Female clergy might want to have a person accompany them when visiting a male member who is alone in the home. This is good ethical practice. It is not a good practice for a minister to visit a home alone. It is acceptable to make a hospital visit alone.
- Be sure to take care of your personal bathroom needs before arriving for a homebound visit so that you won’t have to intrude upon the privacy of their home.
- After your visitation whether it is in the hospital or in a home, be sure to carry with you some type of sanitizer. Sanitize your hands before your arrival and after the pastoral visit because clean hands are a good health practice.
- Treat all of your members the same regardless whether they have been a blessing or a “thorn in your side.” If your members are sick visit them. Do not let your vexations be a stumbling block in your ministering.
- Refrain from hugging and embracing sick members who are in the hospital and those that are homebound.
- Keep all pastoral visits professional.
*The Rev. N.T. Pitts ptaegar@aol.com is a retired AME Itinerant Elder who lives in Eatonville, Florida.
15. CLERGY AND EPISCOPAL FAMILY CONGRATULATORY MESSAGES:
- President of Morehouse College freshmen class
Stephen A. Green, son of Bishop Samuel L. Green, Sr., who was elected President of the freshmen class at Morehouse College, Atlanta, Georgia.
Stephen's contact email: stephengreen1@aol.com
-The Birth of Little Miss Taylor Joi Joseph
Congratulations to proud parents, Mr. and Mrs. Paul (Marcia Fugh) Joseph and proud grandparents, Dr. and Mrs. Clement W. Fugh (General Secretary/Chief Information Officer AMEC). Little Miss Taylor Joi Joseph was born Monday, September 27, 2010 at 11:02 a.m., weighing 6 lbs. 11 oz.
Congratulatory responses can be mailed to:
Mr. and Mrs. Paul Joseph
588 Castlegate Drive
Nashville, Tennessee 37217
Or emailed to:
Mr. and Mrs. Paul Joseph: MDFugh@yahoo.com
Dr. and Mrs. Clement Fugh: cio@ame-church.com
- Congratulations to the Reverend Leah Gaskin Fitchue, Ed.D
Princeton Theological Seminary Honors the Reverend Leah Gaskin Fitchue, Ed.D., President, Payne Theological Seminary, 2010 Distinguished Alumna
Dr. Leah Gaskin Fitchue, President of Payne Theological Seminary, the first African American female president of any institution in the 262-member Association of Theological Schools, and the first female president of any historically Black theological seminary, is being honored as a 2010 Distinguished Alumna by Princeton Theological Seminary.
The Reunion 2010 Presidential Dinner will be held October 25, 2010 at 6:00 p.m. in the Mackay Campus Center, Princeton Theological Seminary. Tickets are $30.00. Make checks payable to: Princeton Theological Seminary. Mail to PO Box 821, Princeton, NJ 08542; attn: Ms. Karen Assenheimer. Credit cards: call 609-497-7756. The courtesy of a reply is also requested by October 15th to Payne Theological Seminary at (937) 376-2946 x 209.
- Congratulations to Commander (SEL) Glenda Jennings Harrison
Commander (SEL) Glenda Jennings Harrison reported to Arlington National Cemetery on August 2, 2010 as the first female chaplain to serve in the capacity of Senior Navy Chaplain. She currently supervises a staff of four and officially began her duties on August 30, 2010. As of this date, she has conducted over 63 funerals and is proud to represent the Second Episcopal District's Washington Conference under the leadership of Bishop Adam Jefferson Richardson, Jr. She indicated that her life has come full circle as her grandmother the late Frances Mason Jones who once owned a funeral home trained her well on taking care of those experiencing grief and loss. Further, she intends to minister to her families with dignity and is honored to serve the families of our military men and women in uniform. As Chaplain Jennings Harrison acclimates back to the DC area (after being away from home for over 13 years) and in between her many responsibilities with the Navy she periodically manages to volunteer her time to Courtney House working with abused teenagers between the ages of 14-18.
Congratulatory responses can be emailed to: shereegj601@yahoo.com
- Congratulations to Carla Lorraine Bouie
Carla Lorraine Bouie, the daughter of the Reverend Michael K. Bouie, pastor of Allen Temple AME Church, Tampa, Florida and connectional WMS Officer, Barbara McNeely-Bouie delivered her trial sermon on Sunday, September 26th at Allen Chapel AME Church, Daytona Beach, Florida at 7:45 am.
Congratulatory responses can be emailed to: carla.bouie@gmail.com
- Congratulations to Nyki H. Caldwell
Nyki H. Caldwell, the daughter of Dr. Jerry Caldwell and the Rev. Dr. Oveta Fuller-Caldwell, spouse and pastor of Bethel AME Church, Adrian, Michigan was recognized in a ceremony at her high school as a Trimester Academic Scholar (the only African American in this group) in September 2010. This required achieving a 3.5 or above GPA for all three trimesters of the 2009-10 school year.
Nyki is also the State of Michigan 2010 High School Division 1 high jump champion finishing #1 in both indoor and outdoor track and field (T&F) state meets. She is an All-State and an All American Scholar-Athlete by finishing 3rd in the nation at the New Balance Nationals T&F meet in summer 2010. With a high jump P.R. of 5'9", in August she was named to the prestigious 2010 Michigan Dream Team for T&F. Nyki is a senior at Dexter High School, Dexter, Michigan, a member of Bethel AME Church-Adrian, Michigan and currently is exploring college possibilities.
Congratulatory responses can be emailed to: fullerao@umich.edu
- Congratulations to Tiffany Marie Kelly
Tiffany Marie Kelly, daughter of Dr. and Mrs. Herman O. Kelly, Jr. first family of Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church in Baton Rouge, Louisiana was elected for membership in the Aquinas Chapter of the National Honor Society for The St. Joseph's Academy in Baton Rouge, Louisiana.
Congratulatory responses can be emailed to: hokellyj@yahoo.com
16. THE CHRISTIAN METHODIST EPISCOPAL (CME) CHURCH EPISCOPAL FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Mrs. Georgiana P. Williams, the mother of Bishop Sylvester Williams, Sr., Presiding Prelate of the Second Episcopal District, C.M.E. Church. Mrs. Williams made her transition on the morning of Wednesday, September 29, 2010 in Albany, Georgia.
The Homegoing Celebration is scheduled for Monday, October 4, 2010 at Bass Tabernacle C.M.E. Church in Akron, Alabama at 12:00 Noon. Arrangements have been entrusted to Rollins Mortuary, 2701 Martin L. King, Jr. Blvd., Tuscaloosa, AL 35401; telephone, (205) 759-4202.
Condolences may be sent to Bishop and Mrs. Sylvester Williams, Sr. & Family at 8044 Montgomery Road, Suite 700, Cincinnati, OH 45236.
17. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
We regret to announce the passing of Mrs. Jennie M. Burems, the mother of the Reverend Donald Burems, Sr., pastor at St. John AMEC, Philadelphia, PA (Philadelphia Conference, South District). The following information has been provided regarding funeral arrangements.
Viewing and Funeral, Friday. October 8, 2010
Viewing - 9:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m.
Funeral - 10:00 a.m.
St. John A.M.E. Church
2114 S. 71st Street
Philadelphia, PA 19142
Phone: 215-727-9311
Fax: 215-727-4542
The Rev. Donald Burems, Sr., Pastor
Professional Service entrusted to:
Mitchem Wilson, Funeral Director
1410 S. 20th Street
Philadelphia, PA 19146
Phone: 215-461-8140
Expressions of sympathy and condolences may be sent to:
The Rev. Donald Burems, Sr., and family
6013 Media Street
Philadelphia, Pa 19131
18. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
We are saddened to announce the passing of Br. Learrie White, Jr., the brother of the Reverend Beverly White & Dr. Vanessa Cleaver and the uncle of Connectional YPD President Reginald Cleaver, Jr. Mr. Learrie White, Jr. passed away Monday, September 27, 2010. He was a member of Mt. Nebo AME Church, College Station, Arkansas.
Expressions of Sympathy can be emailed to:
The Reverend Beverly White: bevsbook@yahoo.com
Dr. Vanessa Cleaver: vancleaver@sbcglobal.net
Brother Reginald Cleaver, Jr.: regdaprez@yahoo.com
Or expressions of sympathy can be mailed to:
The Family of Learrie White, Jr.
2914 Lennox Drive
Little Rock, AR 722204
19. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
We regret to announce the passing of Mrs. Bessie Todd, the mother of the Reverend Sandra Ann Lynn, Itinerant Deacon in the 13th Episcopal District, West Tennessee Annual Conference.
Service arrangements for Mrs. Bessie Todd:
Friday, October 8, 2010
Visitation: 5:00 p.m.-7:00 p.m.
Minor-Morris Funeral Home
112 Richards Street
Joliet, Illinois 60433
(815) 723-1283
Saturday, October 9, 2010
Viewing: 10:00 a.m. -11:00 a.m.
Funeral: 11:00 a.m. -12:00 Noon
Brown Chapel A.M.E. Church
1502 East Mills Road
Joliet, Illinois 60433
(815) 726-1143
Saturday, October 9, 2010
Interment - Elmhurst Cemetery
Expressions of sympathy may be sent to the family of Mrs. Bessie Todd in care of the Minor-Morris Funeral Home or to Brown Chapel A.M.E. Church.
20. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
Our hearts are saddened to announce the passing of Arron Jerome Whittington on Tuesday, September 28th. Arron is the husband of Patricia Irene Montague-Whittington and the son-in-law of Presiding Elder Ernest L. Montague, Sr. and Mrs. Irene Montague, Eastern District of the Baltimore Conference. He is also the brother of Mrs. Donette Branch, wife of Pastor Johnnie Branch.
Services will be held as follows:
Sunday, October 3, 2010 - Viewing
10:00 AM to 6:00 PM
March Funeral Homes
4300 Wabash Avenue
Baltimore, MD 21215
2:00 PM – 6:00 PM Family will receive guests
Monday, October 4, 2010 - Homegoing Celebration
10:30 AM - Wake
11:00 AM - Service of Celebration
Trinity A.M.E. Church
2140 E. Hoffman Street
Baltimore, Maryland 21213
In lieu of flowers, in the memory of Arron, please send donations to: The Media Ministry of Trinity AME Church, 2140 E. Hoffman Street, Baltimore, Maryland 21213.
All other communications may be sent to:
Patricia Montague-Whittington
C/o Presiding Elder Ernest L. Montague and First Lady Irene Montague
P.O. Box 1104
Randallstown, Maryland 21133
410-496-5902 Home
410-496-5903 Fax
Elder Ernest L. Montague: emont123@aol.com
First Lady Irene Montague: iren678@aol.com
21. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICES AND CONGRATULATORY ANNOUNCEMENTS PROVIDED BY:
The Clergy Family Information Center
Bishop Carolyn Tyler Guidry, Chair
Commission on Social Action
Ora L. Easley, Administrator
AMEC Clergy Family Information Center
E-mail: Amespouses1@bellsouth.net
Web page: http://www.amecfic.org/
Phone: (615) 837-9736 (H)
Phone: (615) 833-6936 (O)
Cell: (615) 403-7751
BLOG: http://ameccfic.blogspot.com/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/AMEC_CFIC
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/The-AME-Church-Clergy-Family-Information-Center/167202414220
22. 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.
Archive of The Christian Recorder Online from 2004-2016; Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III, 20th Editor of The Christian Recorder
