The Reverend Dr. Johnny Barbour, Jr., Publisher
The Reverend Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III, the 20th Editor, The Christian Recorder
To all of you - A Blessed Thanksgiving
1. EDITORIAL – TOO MANY PASSIVE-AGGRESSIVE PEOPLE SITTING IN THE PEWS:
Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III
The 20th Editor of The Christian Recorder
Pastors-in-charge, clergy on ministerial staffs and church officers are the leaders of the religious programs in local churches, but the reality is that local churches cannot function effectively without church members.
The overall personality of a local church determines the success or failure of the local church’s evangelism outreach. The behavior of the collective church members projects the personality, positive or negative, of the local church. The personality of a church often determines whether or not people join the church or embrace the ministry of the local church.
Have you ever wondered why some churches situated on corner or in the middle of the block never grow, while other churches have vibrant programs and grow; no matter who is assigned as the pastor or whether or not the pastor is an outstanding preacher?
Churches have personalities and reputations. Like people, some churches have “good” reputations and some churches have “bad” reputations. It’s the behavior of the people in the pews that determines a church’s reputation. Hopefully, every person sitting in the pew understands the evangelism concept that “Sheep grow flocks, shepherds do not grow flocks; shepherds are charged to tend and nurture flocks.”
Many pastors often wish that all of the members would be actively engaged in the all of the ministries of the local church. In an ideal world, that would wonderful, but since we are not living in an ideal world; every member participating in the life of the church, in a positive way, is not a reality.
I am certain most pastors and church officers know that their local congregations will not have 100% participation of every church member and if a ”Make-a-Wish Foundation” existed for pastors; pastors would wish for the absence of disruptive church members.
There is not a church in the world that has 100% participation of active church members, and there is probably not a church in the world that does not have its share of disruptive and disgruntled church members.
Pastors are challenged to do ministry with “good people” and “not-so-good people.” Normally, church people are not murderers, thieves, adulterers, or gangsters; they are regular people who often come from good families; and they are upstanding people and leaders in the community. Among both the “good and not so good” people are members who love their church, are not openly hostile or disruptive, yet they are just as destructive as an overtly hostile and physically abusive person because they can singlehandedly, “kill” church programs and stifle local church growth. They are passive-aggressive members; not in the sense of a long-term chronic disorder, but members who function passive-aggressively in the life of the church; that’s their “style” and their behavior.
Passive-aggressive members
The term, “passive-aggressive personality,” refers to people who express their aggression in passive ways. A person with a passive-aggressive personality disorder has problems being open and honest with the way they really feel. They resist authority, but often are unable to come out and refuse to do something; instead, they will put things off, make excuses, or "forget" to do what is asked. Their behavior creates problems at work, in their homes and in the life of the church. Passive-aggressive personalities are in every church.
Like clandestine undercover military units, passive-aggressive members often work undercover; and because of the passive aspect of their personalities, passive-aggressive members do not function openly and “above board.” Undercover soldiers shield themselves by blending in with the general population where they can’t be identified and cannot be easily destroyed without harming innocent civilians around them. Passive-aggressive members can be found in every church, on church boards, in the choir, on the usher board; they work with youth; and develop close relationships with older members. Passive-aggressive behavior is often exhibited when you see people breaking off in small groups whispering to each other. Passive-aggressive laity and clergy hold private meeting in the hallways, on the sidewalk and in the parking lots; and they have their own “telephone ministry.”
Passive-aggressive behavior is long-term habit; it is not a transient condition that “pops up” like a cold; and it is not a temporary condition.
Passive-aggressive behavior, even among church members, is not a genetic disorder, it’s a learned behavior; it’s a pattern of behavior. In some churches, families, from one generation to the next, exhibit passive-aggressive behavior because that has been their modus operandi; there is nothing genetic about their dysfunctional behavior; it’s just the way they are.
A person with a passive-aggressive personality disorder seems to be cooperative with authority and appears to support the church program; but instead of cooperating and supporting; passively resists, and in the process of his or her passive resistance, becomes hostile and angry.
Traits of church people exhibiting passive-aggressive behavior include resentment of pastoral authority, avoidance of responsibility; and forgetfulness, which is a ploy to avoid doing what they are supposed to do or what they have been told to do. They passively fail to cooperate, but rather than openly expressing their feelings, they suppress their anger and rarely openly confront pastoral leadership.
Some common symptoms of passive-aggressive behavior also include acting sullen, blaming others, having unexpressed anger or hostility, and doing tasks half-heartedly, especially when asked to do something they do not want to do.
Individuals who are passive-aggressive are dishonest and sometimes worst than dishonest because they often to not tell the truth about how they feel about issues. They will tell the pastor that the sermon was great and then bad-mouth the pastor’s sermon all week to anyone who will listen. At a meeting, a passive-aggressive member will not agree or disagree to anything going on in the meeting and when asked if he or she has any objections, will remain silent; but as soon as a passive-aggressive member leaves the meeting, he or she shares comments about what should have or should not have happened at the meeting.
The perfect recipe for hindering church growth
Passive-aggressive behavior is the perfect recipe for keeping churches mediocre and stymieing church growth. Passive-aggressive behavior is dysfunctional and has far-reaching effects because a passive-aggressive member discourages the participation of other members and discourages others from joining the church.
If a church, filled with good and loving members, is struggling and doesn’t seem to have the ability to grow and move forward, you can bet that passive-aggressive members are lurking within the congregation.
The bad news
The bad news is that persons who suffer from passive-aggressive disorder have become so comfortable with their behavior that their dysfunction is, for them, “normal.” Among professionals, there is disagreement about whether or not passive-aggressive disorder is treatable.
The good news
Passive-aggressive behavior is learned behavior and the good news is that it can be unlearned, and in that sense, I believe passive-aggressive behavior is treatable, if a person recognizes that he or she is passive-aggressive and if he or she wishes to change his or her behavior, can do so.
What pastors need to understand
Pastors need to understand that passive-aggressive behavior of members is not anything personal against the pastor. Passive-aggressive behavior is a lifestyle that is not limited to the church environment. Passive-aggressive persons function passive-aggressively in every area of their lives, and in that sense it is a disorder.
2. READER RESPONSE TO EDITORIAL AND OTHER ISSUES:
- To the Editor:
RE: Editorial, “Too Many Passive Stewards and Trustees”
I have a nephew in Washington, DC who is a member in a Baptist church and the family remembers his deacon ordination date. We were all invited to that grand occasion and came from near and far to support him. It was, indeed, an impressive event. One portion of his ordination included his wife, as well.
I've never been invited to an A.M.E. Steward's big moment; I just hear later, “So-And-So is a Steward now.”
I can't even name all of Stewards or Trustees in our church. I guess if I ever saw them sit together, dressed in black, on a First Sunday, I'd know who they are, wouldn't I?
Name Withheld
- To the Editor:
RE: Editorial, “Too Many Passive Stewards and Trustees”
However, I must say that your editorial “Too Many Passive Stewards and Trustees" was very timely for me. As Presiding Elder I conduct an Annual Training Session for all Church Officers and Aspiring Church Officers in the Chattanooga District.
I shared your editorial with the attendees and all were in complete agreement. The following Sunday at church the officers who attended the training session, I was surprise to see all sitting together. Praise the Lord!
I, too, have recognized that we have become much too casual in our worship and service to the church.
By the way I was so inspired by your comments I pull out my ordination orders. To make certain I never forget the month, day and year of my ordination as elder.
May God’s gift of writing you share continue to bless us.
Dr. Kenneth Hill,
Presiding Elder, Chattanooga District, East Tennessee Annual Conference
- To the Editor:
RE: Editorial, “Too Many Passive Stewards and Trustees”
Thank you for this editorial, it is confirmation that the training program which will be presented to the Tennessee Conference Lay Organization at our first quarterly meeting in December is exactly what is needed and what God desires.
I, too, am troubled by the lack of training for the officers in our churches. I believe the lackadaisical attitude of some stewards and trustees is directly related to lack of training as well as the process by which they are appointed and/or elected.
This Conference year one of the top training priorities in the Tennessee Conference Lay Organization is that of training for Officers in the local church.
Mrs. Barbara Ivery,
President Tennessee Conference Lay Organization
3. 16TH DISTRICT EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS DIRECTOR - CHOLERA EPIDEMIC AND THE AME CONSTITUENTS AND AME CHURCHES:
Sunday Morning, November 21, 2010
“Haiti News Update”
Received in the 16th Episcopal District Office 20 Nov 2010
Reported by: Sister Elvire Douglas, 16th District Emergency Director; Co-Chairperson of Haiti Earthquake Steering Committee
Below is the update on the cholera epidemic from UN-OCHA sources:
Situation Update
• All ten Départements (administrative regions) in Haiti are now affected by the Cholera.
• Artibonite remains the worst affected Département, where more than 650 out of 1,186 Cholera deaths have been recorded.
• The Ministère de la Santé Publique et de la Population (MSPP) reports that 19,646 people have been hospitalised since the outbreak. Altogether 49,418 people have sought medical attention to date.
• The number of recorded cholera cases also increases in Port-au-Prince, especially in Cité Soleil, an extremely impoverished and densely populated commune west of the capital, as well as in Port-au-Prince’s largest prison, where 30 inmates have been infected. Altogether 46 deaths have been reported in the Port-au-Prince metropolitan area.
Beside Cholera issue, we are now dealing with a deteriorating security situation of civil unrest with various street demonstrations in Cap-Haitien in the North, Hinche in Plateau Central department and Port-au-Prince. The protests and riots are against UN peacemakers who are being blame for bringing the cholera in Haiti as well as against presidential and Parliamentary elections on Nov. 28.
November 19, 2010 / 6:00 p.m.
Situation Overview
The latest statistic reports on the cholera epidemic from the Ministry of Public Health (MSPP) stand as 1110 deaths and 18,000 hospitalized cases around the country. To date, cases have been confirmed in the Artibonite Centre which is the highest risks areas: North, Northwest, Northeast, South and West departments including Port-au-Prince with 953 reported cases and 46 deaths (PAHO sources).
So far the Government has put in place around the country 30 cholera treatment centers (CTC) and 27 cholera treatment units (CTU). These units are established for mild cases where patients can be treated and send home. Also there are number of rehydration stations where oral rehydration salts are distributed.
Experts accordingly said that the epidemic will be here for months to come and the spreading of the epidemic is escalating due to the rapid population movement from river banks to the remote mountain sites.
Update Concerning Our African Methodist Episcopal Churches in Haiti:
Thus far no direct report from churches other than those in the Artibonite Region where concern is growing.
* Anabelle Freeland AMEC reported 2 church members were sick and got treated but cases are increasing the neighborhood localities around church area.
* L.L. Berry AMEC - reporting members are sick but not yet received statistical numbers
A massive increase of awareness and hygiene promotion are ongoing in these regions, but will need to be continued more extensively in the remote areas.
Since the numbers keep increasing, we have to focus on preparedness and response to contain the spread of cholera through hygiene promotion in churches, schools, public markets, etc.
Actions taken by the Churches to date:
- Washing hands stations have been set up at the church doors
- Public awareness on the cholera manifestation, as well as attention to hygiene. The promotion for food and water awareness is being put in place. We are calling to the people’s attention the fact that we must change our mode of living.
- Plans being made to distribute Oral Rehydration Salt (which, at this time, is a bit scarce).
- Distribution of leaflets when received from other organizations
Needs and perspectives:
- Training of volunteers - youths as well as Emergency Committees
- Distribution of leaflets
- Jerry cans
- Soap
- Water purification tablets (Aqua-tab) for every home
- Oral Rehydration Salt
A proposal is being prepared outlining how we will work to meet the needs identified above in coordination with AME-SADA.
Prepared by:
Sister Elvire Douglas
16th District Emergency Director
Haiti Earthquake Relief Steering Committee Co-Chairperson
4. UPDATE AS OF FRIDAY NOVEMBER 12, 2010, 1800 HRS. (6 P.M.):
Update as of Friday November 12, 2010, 1800 hrs. (6 p.m.); the numbers of suspected cases of cholera are continuing to increase in most parts of Haiti
According to the latest report from the Haitian Ministry of Public Health and Population, a total of 12,303 people have been hospitalized and 796 have died since the outbreak began.
http://commonhealth.wbur.org/2010/11/cholera-in-haiti-new-cases-deaths-up-sharply/
Update on the treatment of cholera patients at the AME-SADA pont matheux, Léger and fond Baptist outpatient clinics --
The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) has released today (November 12, 2010) its “Cholera Inter-Sector Response Strategy for Haiti.” The latter indicates that there are 12,000 hospitalized cases (WHO already published preliminary reports indicating gross under-reporting of cases by as much as an estimated 400%), with 800 deaths. In addition, this UN plan call for the mobilization of resources for at least 6 months and predicts about 200,000 cases throughout Haiti.
At AME-SADA the cases have slowed to a trickle at the Pont Matheux Health Center where we treated close to 300 patients (7 deaths) between October 23 and 30, 2010 before being relieved by the German Red Cross (GRC). Upon their arrival, we divided the Pont Matheux in two, with one side exclusively for the Cholera patients and handled only by the GRC and the remainder reserved for all other patients, handles exclusively by AME-SADA staff.
In about 7 days the GRC saw about 150 cases and had about 9 deaths.
The urgency has moved to the mountain areas surrounding Arcahaie. At the AME-SADA the Leger Center has received 60 cases in the last 36 hours, with one fatality (a 5-year-old girl). The cases are continuing to come. In addition the AME-SADA Fond Baptiste Center had seen 13 cases of Cholera as of this morning (November 12, 2010, 10:00 a.m.) and so far had no fatalities. These two clinics are 2 and 3 hours away from the paved road respectively, by a hazardous path in a good 4-wheel drive automobile. No trucks can go on that path.
The AME-SADA health agents who received a quick training in oral rehydration therapy (the best way to treat cholera, when caught early) had treated an unconfirmed number of cases near the AME-SADA Bellanger and Source Matelas Centers. It is an early warning that more will probably be on the way. These last two centers are located on the main (paved) highway and more accessible.
We are very grateful for the support and assistance received from Bishop Sarah Davis, Bishop Carolyn Tyler Guidry, The Eleventh Episcopal District, Gregg AME Chapel many private individual donations (individual expressions of gratitude are being sent), medical supplies from the MSPP (Haitian Government Ministry of Health and Population) USAID, technical and material support from the German Red Cross (GRC). We are currently having discussions with Plan International and the Clinton Bush Haiti Fund about concept papers submitted to them to obtain additional supplies and funds to help combat the cholera outbreak. I expect a response in the next few days from the Plan and the Clinton Bush Haiti Fund.
The good news is that Cholera is completely preventable with proper hygiene. We must rush water purification and oral rehydration ORS) to the population immediately. Most of the population served by AME-SADA does not have access to clean/safe sources of water. The only quick/efficient solution is water purification tablets, with culturally adapted hygiene messages, which we can get into the hands of AME-SADA’s 94 Health Agents, 367 Traditional Birth Attendants and 204 mothers’ clubs with 5,162 members. The ORS packets can be used at the first sign of infection and death can be averted very easily, without hospitalization and more expensive treatment.
The Following supplies are urgently needed:
- Funds to purchase supplies locally and pay for additional staff.
- Water purification tablets
- Oral Rehydration Salts (individual packets)
- Individual soap bottles or bars of soap for hand washing
- Stethoscopes (adult and obstetric)
- Blood Pressure Cuffs
- Ambut Bags
- Nebulizers
- Suction
- Manometers (monitors oxygen level)
For additional information please contact the following persons:
In Washington DC:
Dr. Robert Nicolas, Executive Director, email: rnicolas@ame-sada.org]
Dr. Ketty Philogene, Health Program Officer, email: kphilogene@ame-sada.org
Telephone: Voice: 202 371-8722; FAX 202 371-0981
Mailing Address:
AME-SADA,
1134 11TH STREET, NW,
Washington, DC 20001;
Donations (checks or supplies listed above) may be sent:
AME-SADA,
1134 11TH ST. NW, Suite 214,
Washington DC. 20001]
Donations may be made online, using a credit card at the Website: www.ame-sada.org
Contact AME-SADA in Port-au-Prince, Haiti:
Ms. Madeline Pierre Dupiton, Country Representative, email: madelinepierre@yahoo.fr; Telephone #: 011 509 2 942-1303 or 011 509 3 454-1410
Dr. Marie Yolaine Remy, email: yolaineremy@hotmail.com and sadahaiti@hotmail.com; Telephone #: 011 509 3 467-1075;
AME-SADA Haiti Office Address:
#5 Delmas 81, Route De Delmas
Port-au-Prince, Haiti, WI
5. THE 146TH SESSION OF THE CALIFORNIA ANNUAL CONFERENCE – A PRESCRIPTION TO REBUILD THE WALLS:
*Mrs. Marilyn Lovelace-Grant
Bishop T. Larry Kirkland, Presiding Prelate and Episcopal Supervisor Mrs. Mary L. Kirkland
The 146th Session of the California Annual Conference was highly anticipated 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 let us build up the wall of Jerusalem, that we be no more a reproach.”
The Reverend Dr. Booker T. Guyton, Sr. was the host Presiding Elder of the Oakland/San Joaquin District and the Reverend Dr. W. Bartalette Finney, Sr., Presiding Elder of the San Francisco / Sacramento District was the Co-Host.
Under the unrivaled and first class leadership of the Host Pastor, the Reverend Dr. Harold R. Mayberry, the delegates and members attending the 146th Session of the California Annual Conference were greeted with precision, exceptional accommodations and gracious hospitality from First A.M.E. Church, Oakland, California.
As a prelude to the California Annual Conference a musical was held on Sunday September 12, 2010 at FAME Oakland. Featuring the California Annual Conference Choir directed by Reverend Jeffrey Williams, Conference Choir Director, the choir sang an array of inspiring musical selections from hymns, spirituals, a classical Mozart piece in Italian, and gospel favorites. Mrs. Camille D. Stroughter, President of the California Annual Conference Choir commented on the extraordinary commitment of the choir members to prepare an exceptional musical program.
On Monday September 13, 2010 the California Conference Women in Ministry held a worship service with the theme of “Celebrating the Spirit of Sisterhood: We are One in the Lord”, Romans 12:5. The Reverend Teresa L. Fry Brown, Ph.D., Professor of Homiletics at the Candler School of Theology and Director of Black Studies at Emory University in Atlanta, Georgia was the guest speaker. The sermon topic was “Revived by a Rock”, Isaiah 40:25-31. The Reverend Fry Brown parsed the word with profound biblical wisdom and spiritual insights into the wear and tear of ministry and how there is revival on the rock. She described a spiritual metaphor of an exhausted eagle that went to the rock, stretched its wings out, and just rested on the rock for revival and replenishment. The Reverend Fry Brown preached that the rock protects, renews, overcomes and ministers.
Also Monday morning the California Conference Women in Ministry hosted an awareness training workshop entitled “Faith Safe Haven 4 Veterans.” Fifth District Women in Ministry President, the Reverend Pamela Myrtis Mason and the Reverend Sheriolyn Lasley from the Desert Mountain Conference were the presenters, and the training was well attended by clergy and laity. Speakers from the Veterans Administration and the Veteran Center addressed the group as well.
Additionally, the Reverend Theresa Frye Brown gave an outstanding Preaching Workshop, providing instruction on voice clarity and techniques to improve one's preaching and delivery of God's message. The workshop was also well attended by male and female clergy.
On Tuesday September 14, 2010 Mrs. Mary L. Kirkland, Episcopal Supervisor, Mrs. Beverly Thomas, Fifth District WMS President and, Ms. Irma Douglas Lastra, WMS California Conference President, called the 86th Annual Women’s Missionary Society Convention to order. The Convention theme was “Be Still and Know That I am God”, Psalm 46:10. The theme for the evening WMS Musical Extravaganza Witness Night Service was “Praise Him”…Psalm 150:1-6.
On Wednesday September 15, 2010 Bishop T. Larry Kirkland called the 146th Session of the California Annual Conference to order at the Hilton Oakland Airport Hotel, Oakland, California. Bishop Kirkland began by expressing his love for the members of the California Annual Conference and his desire that the work of the Annual Conference would be successful.
The WMS Hour of Power speaker was the Reverend Stephanie Ransom, Senior Pastor, St. James A.M.E. Church, San Jose, California. Reverend Ransom preached on the WMS theme “Be still and know that I Am,” Psalm 46:7-10.
The Reverend Ransom provided powerful preaching on the subject of avoiding stagnation if we stay out of the Lord’s way. When God is perfectly still and God seems motionless, God is moving perfectly in our lives. She stated that if we allow God to work in our lives, we will not have the stress and other issues that we have. We need to be still and let God do the work that God has planned for our lives.
Opening Worship Service was held September 15, 2010 at Parks Chapel A.M.E. Church, Oakland, California. The Conference attendees were ministered to in music and singing by the California Annual Conference Choir and Bethel A.M.E, Church, San Francisco, Choir.
The Preacher of the evening was the illustrious Reverend J. Edgar Boyd, Senior Pastor, Bethel A.M.E. Church, San Francisco. The sermon topic was “God Teaches through the Manna,” Exodus 16:1-8 and 13-15. Reverend Boyd preached an explosive sermon addressing how God blesses us in spite of who we are. God sent manna for the hungry and warns the greedy. Reverend Boyd addressed the need to follow good leadership. He stated that leadership is under crisis and rebellion is everywhere, including in the church. Reverend Boyd preached that good leaders must also keep God in the picture. We should not throw away our heritage….and when we have no one else to go to, we can turn to the rock of ages.
Bishop Kirkland closed the Opening Worship Service by leading the Conference in singing “Lord I Want to Be a Christian in my heart.”
September 16, 2010 the Reverend J. Edgar Boyd presented Ms. Kamala Harris, candidate for State Attorney General of California. Ms. Kamala Harris is currently District Attorney of San Francisco, California. She stated that she and her family were actively involved in the civil rights movement. Her greatest achievement as District Attorney is the “Back on Track” program that she began several years ago. This program helps first time offenders of low level crimes. Released prisoners are enrolled in City College and skill programs to prepare them for jobs. “Back on Track” has reduced prison re-entry from 50% to less than 10%. The “Back on Track” program is a state model, and has been implemented by attorney generals around the country. Bishop Kirkland requested that every pastor urge their members to get out and vote on November 2, 2010.
The Hour of Power speaker on Thursday September 16, 2010 was the Reverend Dr. Kelvin T. Calloway, Senior Pastor, Bethel A.M.E. Church, Los Angeles, California. The sermon topic was “Church Folk,” 1 Corinthians 11:17-26.
The Reverend Dr. Kelvin T. Calloway preached a fiery sermon, stating that “stuff” goes on in the Black Church that is unique to the Black Church. He stated that everyone does not come to church for the right thing, and some people come to church for the drama. Reverend Calloway stated that people should not leave the church feeling worse than when they came, and that dissension in the church is usually about “crazy stuff.” Sister Shirley McClure, former member of the Clara Ward Singers, led the Conference in song with her gifts of singing and exhortation.
The Ecumenical worship service was held Thursday evening. Traditionally men’s night, the procession of approximately one hundred fourteen strong spiritual men of valor was a blessing for all to witness. The program included an impressive men’s choir under the direction of the Reverend Keith Williams and was constituted by the men of Bethel A.M.E. Church, San Francisco and FAME Oakland. The distinguished Gregory Le Protti Men’s Usher Board from FAME Oakland also served during the program.
The speaker for the evening was Bishop Jerry W. Macklin, Glad Tidings Church of God in Christ, Hayward, California. The sermon topic was “Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner,” II Samuel 9:1-7.
Bishop Macklin preached that God has the power to change any situation that looks hopeless, and God specializes in turning things around. We should not worry about being restricted by our location because it does not matter. We should not let the opinion of others write our future….don’t let anyone write our life script. God knows all about us and our situation.
On Friday September 17, 2010 the Hour of Power Speaker was the Reverend Joseph Gardner, Hayes Tabernacle, Los Angeles, and the sermon topic was “Walking Safely on a Dangerous Trail,” Colossians 2:1-8.
Reverend Gardner gave a commanding sermon stating we must walk rooted in Christ. We need to pray every day and read the Bible every day in order to keep ourselves stabilized.
The California Conference Lay Organization celebrated Lay Witness Night on Friday evening, featuring Judge Patricia Mayberry, President of the Judicial Council, AMEC and Fifth District Lay Organization, Director of Lay Activities. Judge Mayberry spoke on the topic “the Steps of a Christ Centered Leader,” Ephesians 5:15-20. The FAME Oakland and FAME El Sobrante choirs provided praise through music. Prayers were lifted up for the nation, church and laity. President Sandra Branch Threadgill was installed to serve a second term as the California Conference Lay Organization President for 2010-2012.
On Saturday September 18, 2010, Bishop T. Larry Kirkland, Presiding Prelate, Fifth Episcopal District, delivered the Ordination Sermon. The Ordination Sermon topic was “What Kind of Leader Are You: Thermometer or Thermostat Leader,” Hebrews 13:7.
The Ordinates were:
Local Deacon: The Rev. Mary Mims-Butts, Ebenezer A.M.E. Church, Stockton, California
Itinerant Deacon: The Rev. Dorothy Ruby Pollard, St. Paul A.M.E. Church, Berkeley, California; The Rev. Carolyn Rene Gaynor, St. Andrews A.M.E. Church, Sacramento, California
Local Elder: the Reverend Henry C. Gerald, Murph Emanuel, A.M.E. Church, Northlands, California; the Reverend Catina James-Spencer, Allen Chapel A.M.E. Church, Sacramento, California
Itinerant Elder: the Reverend Yaa Aseda Rice-Hogue, Everett Chapel A.M.E. Church, Oakland, California; the Reverend Cecil L. Williams, Jr., First A.M.E. Church, Oakland, California
The Commissioning Service was held Sunday September 19, 2010 at Beebe Memorial Cathedral Church, Oakland, California. Bishop Gregory G.M. Ingram, Presiding Prelate of the Tenth Episcopal District was the guest speaker. The sermon topic was, “Trusting God Enough,” Exodus 3:1-6. Bishop Ingram preached we have to trust God enough to go where he tells us to go. God told Moses to go tell Pharaoh to let my People Go, and Moses had to trust God. Moses had a problem with doing business with God. He had an eye sight problem; he didn’t see himself in the same way God saw him. And Moses needed to trust God.
The 146th Session of the California Annual Conference closed with a special resolution, Episcopal remarks, assignments and appointments, and the benediction was given by the Rev. Reverend Jackie Banks, Christ the Solid Rock Mission, Elk Grove, California.
*Mrs. Marilyn Lovelace-Grant is the California Annual Conference Director of Public Relations
6. SIXTH EPISCOPAL DISTRICT HONORED VETERANS AND ACTIVE DUTY MEMBERS OF THE ARMED SERVICES:
The Rev. Velma E. Grant
On Sunday, November 7, the first annual Sixth District Veterans and Active Service Members Celebration, “Praising Our Warriors,” was held in Columbus, Georgia to show appreciation and thanks to members of all branches of the United States Armed Services. The celebration was the creative idea of Episcopal Supervisor, Dr. PAM DeVeaux and as such, it was a well-planned, well-executed, emotional, and enjoyable event. The evening was filled with great music, tributes, hilarious moments, and highlights coupled with a special presentation to one of the most dynamic couples in African Methodism.
Various local churches, AME organizations, family members and other individuals submitted the names of veteran and active duty personnel to be recorded and listed in the Souvenir Journal. I would venture to say that there are over 300 names listed in that keepsake Journal with the overall majority of names being those who served or are serving in the United States Army. Although the Army population is the greatest, all the other branches are adequately represented and the listing of names in the Journal is all-inclusive, representing female, male, ordained clergy and non-ordained individuals.
The Worship Leader for the service was U.S. Navy Chaplain Ammie Davis and she set the tone for the entire evening of celebration and tribute.
The St. James AME Church Choir, (actually an excellent male quartet) performed an outstanding selection which included all the theme songs of each branch of service. To my surprise and delight, my ride friend, Mrs. Mary Blackmon, knew the words to every song and sang along as the quartet performed. As the Choir sang their respective songs, members of each branch stood and sang along, this was simply awesome and a delight to witness.
There was a special tribute to Prisoners of War as well as to Purple Heart recipients. There were four individuals present who are recipients of the Purple Heart, and those individuals stood and received a well deserved round of applause.
Following those tributes, the Rev. Richard Yancey, U.S. Air Force Veteran, recognized all Veterans. Rev. Yancey confessed that his military branch choice was a process of elimination and he stated his reasons for not joining the Army, the Marine Corp, and Coast Guard and hilariously said that in regards to the Navy “…there was too much water to drink.”
The Rev. Billy G. McFadden, U.S. Air Force Veteran led the special tribute to Bishop & Mrs. Frank C. Cummings who received special gifts. Bishop Cummings is a US Air Force Veteran and Mrs. Cummings is a US Navy Veteran, having served in that branch as a nurse. Both Bishop and Mrs. Cummings officially saluted as they received their presentation. This was a true Kodak moment and was priceless.
Bishop DeVeaux, Chaplain Major of the U.S. Army, thanked the Cummings team for their service to country and commitment to the Sixth Episcopal District.
Bishop DeVeaux is a retired veteran who served in the Vietnam War. In addition, Bishop DeVeaux has been trying to convince members of the Sixth District that in his younger years there was hair on his head. It is my pleasure to report that he is correct as evidenced in the pictures that are in the Journal, which show our Prelate with a full head of hair…to that I say “Bishop we are certainly now convinced.”
The Guest Speaker for the evening was Command Sergeant Major Eddie Roberts, U.S. Army Veteran, and Retired Command Sergeant Major who is also a Purple Heart recipient. He said “…being a veteran has a way of making us a better person…the military set the pace…God understands that we are just human…United States Armed Forces…Armed Forces because we are united and one cannot survive without the other….we pay the price..we’ve done our duty yesterday, today, and active duty personnel will give us a clear tomorrow…each generation paved the way better for the other…they gave you the right that your family will live much better…soldiers don’t worry about pay anymore…we used to get $78 a month…we caught the bus, hitchhiked or walked the way…I don’t worry about my retirement check as long as my rank/structure is right.” After the speaker, Chaplain Aimee Davis shared that the starting salary for chaplains is now $45,000 annually very different from $78 a month. As a matter of fact $45, 000 is a lot more than what some pastors receive. Thank God for a commitment to parish ministry.
Kudos on a job well done to the visionary Dr. PAM DeVeaux, the committee including, the Reverends Billy McFadden, Charles Bennett, Richard Yancey, Conitras Houston, James Alexander, Sr. and others involved in the planning, hosting and implementing this celebration. I close with the motto of each branch of service that was recited by the respective branches.
The Army “This We’ll Defend”
The Air Force “Above All”
The Navy “Non Sibi Sed Patriae” meaning “Not Self but Country”
The Marine Corps “Semper Fidelis" meaning “Always Faithful”
The Coast Guard “Semper Paratus” meaning “Always Prepared”
Happy Veterans Day to all that served and are still serving!!!!!
7. PASTORAL TRANSFERS AND APPOINTMENTS MADE AT THE THIRD DISTRICT PLANNING MEETING, NOVEMBER 13, 2010:
Dublin, Ohio
November 13, 2010
The Right Reverend C. Garnett Henning, Presiding Prelate of the Third Episcopal District made the following appointments following a Holy Ghost-filled Planning Meeting with great preaching by the Rev. Arthur Doctor of St. Paul AME, Washington, Pennsylvania for the Friday Opening Service; the Rev. Dr. Dennis C. Dickerson, Executive Director of the Research and Scholarship of the African Methodist Episcopal Church, and Editor of The A.M.E. Church Review, and candidate for Episcopal Service preached a dynamic sermon at the Friday Night “Hour of Power” Service; and retired bishop, the Right Reverend Robert V. Webster preached an outstanding sermon at the Closing Service.
Pastoral Appointments
- The Rev. Steven Jackson transferred from North Ohio Conference to the Pittsburgh Conference and assigned to Bethel AME, Pittsburgh, PA
- The Rev. Kevin Parks transferred from the North Ohio Conference and assigned to Park Place AME, Homestead, PA
- The Rev. Margaret Tyson transferred from North Ohio Conference to Pittsburgh Conference and assigned to Trinity AME, Pittsburgh, PA.
- The Rev. Michael Simmons transferred from South Ohio Conference to Pittsburgh Conference, assigned to St. James AME, Erie, PA.
- The Rev. Solomon Cooper transferred from Ohio Conference to South Ohio Conference, assigned to Quinn AME, Wilmington, OH
- The Rev. Ronald Eskeridge transferred from South Ohio Conference to Ohio Conference, assigned to Quinn AME, Steubenville, OH
- The Rev. Eugene Schoolfield transferred from Pittsburgh Conference to North Ohio Conference, assigned to St. Andrews AME, Youngstown, OH
- The Rev. Cheviene Jones transferred from Pittsburgh Conference to North Ohio Conference, assigned to Jones Chapel AME, Elyria, OH
- The Rev. Erwin McIntosh assigned to Payne AME, Hamilton, OH
- The Rev. Bruce Butcher assigned to St. Paul AME, Akron, OH
- The Rev. Christopher Ferguson assigned to New North Street AME, Springfield, OH
Submitted by the Rev. Dr. Taylor T. Thompson, revttthomp@aol.com, pastor of St. John AME Church, Cleveland, Ohio
8. PASTORAL TRANSFERS AND APPOINTMENTS MADE AT THE FIRST EPISCOPAL DISTRICT FALL CONVOCATION, NOVEMBER 13, 2010:
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
November 13, 2010
Bishop Richard Franklin Norris, Presiding Prelate of the First Episcopal District made the following pastoral appointments at the close of Fall Convocation:
- The Rev. Sidney Williams, transferred from the 15th Episcopal District to the First District and assigned to Bethel AME Church, Morristown, New Jersey
- The Rev. Allan Robinson, transferred from the New England Annual Conference to the New York Annual Conference and assigned to Bethel AME Church, Bay Shore
- The Rev. Jo-el McDuffie, assigned to St. John AME Church, Wayne, Pennsylvania
- The Rev. Samuel Bell, assigned to First A.M.E. Church, Lockport, NY (Western New York Annual Conference)
- The Rev. Phillip Wilson, assigned to Mt. Zion AME Church, Princeton, New Jersey
- The Rev. Paul Thomas, assigned to A.M.E. Union Church, Philadelphia
- The Rev. Dr. Miriam Burnett, Connectional Health Director, transferred from the Sixth Episcopal District to the First Episcopal District and assigned to New Bethel AME Church, Willow Grove, Pennsylvania
- The Rev. Dr. Kevin Miller, transferred from the New Jersey Annual Conference to the New York Annual Conference and assigned to Carter Community AME Church, Jamaica, NY
- The Rev. Jameel Morrison, assigned to Bethel AME Church, Boonton, New Jersey
Submitted by the Rev. Melvin E. Wilson pastor of St. Luke AME Church, Harlem, NY and President of the A.M.E. Ministerial Alliance of NY & Vicinity
9. THE REV. JONATHAN WEAVER PREACHES IN LYON, FRANCE, 25 SOULS ACCEPTED JESUS CHRIST:
THE REV. Jonathan Weaver and First Lady Pamela Weaver visited Nouvelle Alliance (New Covenant) A.M.E. Church in Lyon, France. The Rev. Jonathan weaver preached at three worship services and 25 souls accepted Jesus Christ.
10. A VERY DISTURBING VIDEO-CLIP ABOUT THE CONDITIONS IN HAITI:
Click Here or Type into Your Browser:
http://www.theroot.com/buzz/haitian-american-producer-60-minutes-faces-haitis-harsh-reality?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+TheRootRssFeed+%28TheRoot+RSS+Feed%29
11. FIRST A.M.E. CHURCH PROVIDES HOPE DURING HARD TIMES...:
By Ms Briana Mackey
For 44 years, the First African Methodist Episcopal Church has been teaching the Word and providing a place of worship for hundreds of residents in North Las Vegas, Nevada. For the past two years, the role of the church has broadened to provide hope to church members and the community at large. As the Senior Pastor, the Rev. Dr. Ralph E. Williamson said, “We are living in challenging times, so with every service I give a message about hope. I’m hoping in the process, we win more souls for the Kingdom of God.”
In its nearly two-year-old facility, adjacent to the previous sanctuary which now supports other ministries, First AME Church believes in providing “through God's Word and the churches actions” what the congregation and community need. First A.M.E.’s food pantry served nearly 9,000 households and 34,000 individuals in 2009. Through partnerships with organizations such as Three Square Food Bank, the Rev. Williamson reported that the church is “feeding, clothing, educating and providing spiritual encouragement” not only to the estimated 350 active members of the church, but also to the church’s neighbors in need.
Offering resources in English and Spanish, First A.M.E. successfully planned and hosted a November 6th public forum on home ownership and renters’ rights. Free to the public, the forum presented information from community organizations that those facing housing difficulties needed to hear including private one-on-one sessions with approved housing counselors.
"I am listening and paying attention to what's happening in society,” the Rev. Williamson said of the church’s focus on hope and meeting basic needs. “I don’t think there’s anyone unaffected by this economy,” he explained, “so we try to pay attention to the times or we will get lost in the times.”
In addition to programs, hope-filled sermons and benevolent care, he has ramped up his personal counseling to members to “keep families together.” The church also called members to engage in a 40-day spending fast prior to Holy Week and Easter to help teach them to evaluate what they truly need and how to trim excess from their lives.
Through the past couple of years, he shared that he has seen “more and more people upside down and facing crisis” and remarked that many are “too private and proud to ask for help until the house catches on fire.”
“Pride cometh before the fall,” the Rev. Williamson stated and said that God has given the church an “opportunity to help.” “We are pleased that we have been used to help people adjust,” he said. The church’s commitment to the community rings true to biblical principles of brotherhood and helping. "We are living in an age of grace in a way that is related not only to the age before the second coming, but also to the recession and how so many of us are getting by truly by the grace of God and willingness of Christians to support and love one another." he concluded.
After decades of ministry and five years of pastoring at First A.M.E., the Rev. Williamson knows that waiting on God’s timing will allow more doors to be open and more resources to become available. “We remain astute and focused as we are impactful on social, economic and political arenas,” he said. “Meanwhile, we keep pressing on toward our higher calling.”
First A.M.E. Church holds Sunday worship services at 9:30 a.m. and Church School at 8:30 a.m. on Sundays. Bible study is held Wednesdays at noon and at 6:30 p.m. Bilingual services are presented Thursdays at 10
a.m. The church also holds after school tutoring for grades 5 through 12, Youth for Positive Action and Being a Responsible Teen (BART) programs, Body and Soul health ministry, drama and live music ministries and more.
Additional information is available at http://www.famechurchlasvegas.com
12. THE PASSING OF 101 YEAR OLD AME CHURCH MEMBER:
July 21, 1909 - November 19, 2010
Thelma Clay Linton, age 101, widow of Sterling T. Linton, Harrodsburg, died Friday, November 19, 2010 at Danville Centre for Health and Rehabilitation after a lengthy illness. Born July 21, 1909 in Mackville, she was the daughter of the late Beverly and Nannie Brown Clay. She was a graduate of Bate High School in Danville, was a caterer, a world famous cook having authored her own cook book, “Thelma's Treasures: Secret Recipes from One of the South's Finest Cooks”, was a member of the St. Peter AME Church in Harrodsburg where she served as Church secretary, Steward, Stewardess, former President of the Lula B. Morton Women’s Missionary Society and Steward Emeritus. She was named as a Pioneer Matriarch of Commitment and Dedication from the National Society of the DAR, was named Woman of the Year by the Fort Harrod Business and Professional Women’s Club and former President of the Mercer County Homemakers. On her 90th birthday she was honored by the Mercer County Fiscal Court by declaring the entire day as “Thelma Linton Day.”
Survivors include her great niece and God child, Delois Hudson Welch, Danville and several cousins. She was preceded in death by one brother, Rastus Clay and one sister, Eliza Clay.
Funeral services were conducted on Monday, November 22, 2010 at the St. Peter AME Church by the Rev. Ralph Smith. Burial was held at the Springhill Cemetery in Perryville, Kentucky.
Sister Linton was a member of the DAR, Fort Harrod Business and Professional Women's Club; Lula B. Morton Women's Missionary Society; member of St. Peter AME Church, Harrodsburg and served as Secretary of the Steward Board and as a Stewardess.
13. A TRIBUTE TO A LIVING LEGEND JOSIAH PHELPS:
By Alphonso B. Varner
Mr. Josiah Phelps, a long time resident and living legend of Fort Valley (Peach County), Georgia who is an active, faithful and dedicated citizen of this community and the State of Georgia was honored by his peers at Camp John Hope located near Fort Valley, Georgia.
A new beautiful five-bedroom cabin on this site was dedicated in his name Saturday, November 13, 2010 at 2:00 P.M., the place where he served effectively as the Camp Director for sixteen years.
The ceremony also included a cabin named in Colonel Cheek, a Past Camp John Hope Director.
Saint Peter AME Church purchased the furnishing of a room in Phelps Cabin.
Norman Gay, Director of Camp John Hope worked tirelessly in planning and implementing a successful ceremony for this historic day.
A large gathering of Phelps and Cheek’s families were in attendance. Others included local, county and state officials, members of the Future Farmers of America, the Reverend Bertram C. Smith and members of Saint Peter AME Church, Dr. Larry E. Rivers and First Lady Mrs. Betty H. Rivers of the Fort Valley State University, faculty, alumni of this institution and many other friends.
Phelps was born in Brooks (Quitman) County, Georgia and raised on his family farm. He was a graduate of the Brooks County Public School System. He enrolled at the Fort Valley State College (University) and majored in Agriculture. His quest to receive a degree was interrupted when he was called to active duty, serving in the U.S. States Army during World War II in the European Theater.
After receiving an Honorable Discharge from the military, he returned to FVSU and received a BS degree in Agriculture in 1949. He also earned a Masters degree in Agriculture from Ohio State University.
Phelps has an extraordinary record of achievements in agriculture throughout Georgia.
Phelps was inducted into the Georgia Vocational Agriculture Teacher Education Hall of Fame as a Charter Member, January 22, 2000. Eight months later on September 22, 2000, he was inducted into the Georgia Agricultural Hall of Fame as the first Afro-American to receive this prestigious honor. Both ceremonies were held on the campus of the University of Georgia. He was inducted into the FVSU National alumni Hall of Fame.
Phelps is the past President of the FVSU National Alumni Association. He is a Life Member of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc.
His Future Farmers of America (FFA) Achievements include: President of the State FFA Alumni; elected to the Board of the National FFA Alumni; elected Vice President, National FFA Alumni; the first minority to be elected president of the National FFA Alumni; keynote speaker, eight States National FFA Alumni Convention; retired in 1982, as State Executive Secretary, FFA, State Department of Education; and appointed as a Steward in the Georgia Forestry Commission.
Phelps fruits of labor as a Christian servant parallel his professional accomplishments at his beloved Saint Peter African Methodist Episcopal Church located in Fort Valley.
He is a Trustee Emeritus; past President and Emeritus of the Lay Organization and during his tenure, Saint Peter’s Lay Organization won the Attendance Trophy six consecutive times in the Macon District Lay Organization. He is the past Treasurer of the church for forty years; Church School Teacher; served on the Finance Committee; member of the Mega Club ($1,500.00) for Anniversary each year; Class Leader; and serves faithfully on other auxiliaries of the church.
He is married to Mrs. Ethel Dillard Phelps for fifty seven (57) years. They are the parents of Dr. Rosemary Phelps, Head of the Department of Counseling Psychology at the University of Georgia.
Mr. Josiah Phelps is a Living Legend.
14. THE CONNECTIONAL LAY ORGANIZATION (CLO) SESSION HIGHLIGHTS OF FALL EXECUTIVE BOARD SESSION:
Detroit Michigan
November 14, 2010
November 12, 2010 – Marriott Courtyard Downtown, Detroit, Michigan
In a powerful and thought provocative delivery in the Motor City, President Willie C. Glover addressed the Fall Executive Board at the Marriott Courtyard in downtown Detroit to begin the 2010 fall board meeting.
President Glover began by thanking the members of the Connectional Lay Organization and extending kudos to the membership for faithful service and tolerance in carrying out their responsibilities. President Glover referenced the Annual Audit report which was presented to the Lay Commission of the General Board of the Church where the organization received commendations from the Statistics and Finance Commission chaired by Bishop Preston Warren Williams and also the Lay Commission. The President commended Mrs. Edith Bartley Cartledge for the creative work reflected in the comprehensive “Lay Study Guide” that was edited by Dr. Paulette Coleman and for the vision of the Regional Workshops which will help us to become less biennial driven and more productive and impactful in the life of the Church. He also extended commendations to Mrs. Eileen Warner for incorporating the Connectional Lay E-blast as a marketing tool for the Connectional Lay Organization. Furthermore, Mr. Alphonso Times was commended for publishing two excellent editions of We Speak. The President asked that everyone renew their subscriptions. Mr. John Thomas, the Young Adult Representative, was commended for hosting the Connectional Lay Retreat of Young Adult Representatives in Columbus, Ohio. It was well represented by Episcopal District young adults. President Glover stated that he was impressed with their commitment to the Organization and their willingness to serve.
President Glover noted that the organization has moved into a new paradigm in planning the overall structure of the Biennial. The body was reminded that next year we will celebrate 100 years of the Lay Organization in the life of our beloved Church. Dr. Paulette Coleman and William Ayers will co-chair the Centennial celebration committee with the kickoff during the 2011 Biennial Session and culminate during the 49th General Conference in Nashville, Tennessee.
Lastly, President Glover reviewed his trip to Haiti where persons from across the Connection to be a part of a group to assess the needs of the Haitian people and the damaged or destroyed AME facilities. President Glover culminated his report with seven recommendations.
The Director of Lay Activities – Mrs. Edith Bartley Cartledge
Sister Cartledge highlighted the accomplishments, outlined plans for the future and noted challenges of her office. Accomplishments include: creating a graphic design depicting our new theme, establishing a system of effective communication with Episcopal District Directors of Lay Activities through routine conference calls, and email, the publication and sale of our study guide, establishing a working relationship with Mr. John Thomas, the CLO YAR, planning and designing regional workshops, and developing DVDs and hard copies of the proceedings of the 1st Regional Workshops.
Bishop C. Garnett Henning, Sr. is the Chair of the Connectional Lay Commission; Dr. Willie C. Glover, President of the Connectional Lay Organization; and Mrs. Eileen S. Warner is the CLO Online Administrator
Session Highlights –
During a two day extensive session, the Executive Board of the Connectional Lay Organization met in Detroit, Michigan to strategically plan and conduct the business of the Connectional Lay Organization.
Daily devotion, led by CLO Chaplain Joyce Bracy Vaughan, set the spiritual tone for the session. Her daily themes were “I Am an Original” and “You Can Get with This or You Can Get with That.”
Highlights of the session are as follows:
Thursday; November 11, 2010
Presidential meetings with the Director of Lay Activities, Director of Young Adults, and the host committee
Friday; November 12, 2010
CLEDC Meeting
Closed Session of the Executive Board
Plenary Session I – Reports of Stewardship (Officers and Episcopal District Presidents). NOTE: Reports will be posted online by Friday, November 19, 2010
(www.connectionallay-amec.org)
Plenary Session II –Budget and Finance (Discussion of the CLO Operating Budget)
Constitution and By-Laws (Mrs. Ethel W. Jenkins, Committee Chairperson) – Proposed revisions and adjustments were presented and given to the Episcopal District Presidents. ALL revisions and/or adjustments should be channeled through the Episcopal District Presidents. The Presidents are asked to submit the information to Mrs. Jenkins on or before March 1, 2011.
Host District Reception and Mixer
Saturday, November 13, 2010
Plenary Session III
Young Adult Representative Report (Brother John Thomas) – Complete report will be posted on the CLO website for review
Centennial Celebration (Sister Paulette Coleman and Brother William Ayers, co-chairpersons)
Proposed Connectional Lay Organization Centennial Events:
- Beginning July 2011 - Centennial Kick-Off Luncheon at 32nd Lay Biennial Convention Detroit, Michigan unveiling of Complete Biographies and Portraits of the Connectional Lay Organization Presidents
Complete Centennial Celebration itinerary to be posted!
- African Summit/Executive Board Meeting (Dr. Roderick Moore)
Registration Extension: January 5, 2011
Complete report submitted on November 14, 2010 and information is posted on the CLO website
- First Draft of the Biennial Session (Complete agenda posted soon)
Opening Worship on Sunday, August 14, 2011
Closing on Thursday, August 18, 2011
Convention Planner (Sister Anita Rankin)
- Official Dates for the Biennial (August 14-18, 2011)
Pre-Biennial Events will be on August 13th
Site: Marriott Detroit at Renaissance Center (Soars 73 floors above the Detroit River)
ALL delegates can be adequately accommodated at this hotel!
- Two (2) full service restaurants on site PLUS a host of other restaurants and an 1,100 seat food court
Room rate: $129.00 per night for standard rooms plus applicable state and local taxes/$148.35
Parking: Current valet parking rates are $25.00/day and self parking is $8.00 (M-F) and $5.00(Saturday and Sunday)
- Host District (President Madge White)
Discussed and outlined amenities that will be provided during the Biennial Session
- Jesse L. Burns Black Tie Affair (Sister Valerie Bell)
Affair Date: Tuesday, August 16th
Biennial Concert (Included with purchase of a Black Tie Affair ticket)
Featured Artists: Kurt Carr Singers
- Candidates Forum (Sister Jackie DuPont Walker)
Forum will provide individuals running for office an opportunity to present themselves to the organization
Recommendations: Forum - Web Cast and videoed
- CLO Scholarship Committee (Sister Helen Oliver Brown)
Each district will be represented on the committee. Young Adult Representation is needed. Deadline For applicant to receive application: April 16th and the Deadline for submission is June 16th
- Outstanding Lay Person and the Ted Harris Young Adult Award (Sister LaDonna Liggins)
The purpose of this award is to highlight accomplishments of laypersons across the Connectional. Guideline letters will be sent to the Episcopal Districts that will outline information about the award and the namesake of the award. Applications must be postmarked by June 30th
- Public Relations (Brother Alphonso Times)
We Speak - $25.00 per year. Updated forms will be sent to Episcopal District Presidents. 4 editions will be printed per year. (Quarterly)
Submission Deadline: Third Edition November 21, 2010
- Policy and Procedures – (Mary Mooto)
Committee researched CLO Officers Budgetary Constraints)
A special conference call to hear recommendations on travel policy will be held and at that time action will be taken.
- Registration Committee (Brother Darwin Eldridge)
Presented key dollar amounts and dates
a. $225.00 – Registration (Regular fee)
b. Late registration: April 1 ($300.00)
c. Observer: $150.00 (bag, badge, agenda, etc)
d. Deadlines are NOT flexible.
e. Biennial Budget- Based on 1150 delegates
- Vendors (Sister Sandra Bonner Hadley)
For inquiries regarding booth space and/or payment, please contact SJB/Sandra Jo Bonner Conventions and Meetings – (301) 925-9554 OR (301) 442-9206
Budget and finance Commission (Biennial Budget)
- Plenary Session IV
African Liaison (Brother Abe Makiti)
- Legislative Committee (Dr. Cellestine Cheeks)
FULL Report and Legislative Submission Template will be placed on the CLO website.
Responsibilities Of The Legislative Committee:
1). Distribution of Template for drafting proposed legislation – November 22, 2010;
2). Review 2008 Legislative Package and identify all legislation that was passed and is in The Book of the Doctrine and Discipline of the African Methodist Episcopal Church;
3). Review 2008 Legislative Package and identify all legislation that was not passed and is still of interest to the Connectional Lay Organization in 2012;
4). Provide Legislative training for all interested lay persons;
5). Form a Legislative Caucus at every level: local, Conference, District;
6). Solicit new legislation across the connectional church;
7). Review and Edit all proposed legislation and prepare Legislative Package for approval by the Connectional Lay Organization; and
8). Share Legislative Package with clergy and other interested laity.
- Lay Handbook (Dr. Richard Lewis) Currently being updated to be presented at the Biennial Session
- Disaster Relief Fund (Sister Ferryneisa Benjamin)
Action: Executive Board voted to make a donation to Haiti from the CLO Disaster Relief Fund
Reminder: Once a year, each Episcopal District is expected to donate $1.00 per member towards the CLO Disaster Relief Fund.
The Board Meeting officially ended on Saturday afternoon after formation of the Love Circle and the praying of the Lay Benediction.
Submitted by Mrs. Eileen S. Warner, CLO Online Administrator
15. THE 2ND HISTORIC AFRICAN SUMMIT AND EXECUTIVE BOARD MEETING OF THE CONNECTIONAL LAY ORGANIZATION WILL BE HELD IN ZAMBIA IN 2011:
The 2nd Historic African Summit and Executive Board Meeting of the Connectional Lay Organization will be held in Zambia, Southern Africa December 6-15, 2011. Registration Deadline Extension: January 5, 2011
From the President:
The Connectional Lay Organization is excited to announce its second historic African Summit and Executive Board meeting in Zambia (December 6-15, 2011). This trip is in conjunction with the CLO celebrating its centennial anniversary and is an historic trip to the 17th, 18th, and 19th Episcopal Districts. If you have not registered, please do so today with your initial down payment. I am asking you to ask at least two other persons to join you on this trip. Help us to have 100 persons, representing each of our 100 years.
This trip promises to be one of spiritual uplift, meaningful deliberations and in experiencing the local color including tours to Swaziland and the seaport city of Durban. Join us as Xodus International Group once again serves as our tour operator on this second historic meeting of our global organization on the continent of African!
President Willie C. Glover
Connectional Lay Organization - Zambia, Southern Africa & Swaziland -December 6-15, 2011
FAQ Sheet
1. How long will the flight take from the US to Zambia? Usually the flying time from JFK to Lusaka is 15 hours to Johannesburg and 2 to Lusaka.
2. What airline are we using? South African Airways or Delta Airlines.
3. What type of documentation do we need? You will need a passport valid 6 months after you return and a visa. We also brought along visa applications for your convenience. The visa needs to be sent directly to the Zambian Embassy. Please check with your physician regarding vaccinations needed. There shouldn’t be a great deal of vaccinations that you need to have done. You will only need a passport for South Africa and Swaziland.
4. What about meals service onboard the flight? Most of the airlines offer vegetarian, kosher or seafood meals. If you are interested in having a special meal, please let XIG know ahead of time.
5. Seat assignments – Upon registering, please inform XIG as to the type of seat assignment you would like. Nothing is guaranteed but they always try.
6. How much luggage can we carry? Presently, the airlines are permitting 2 pieces of luggage, not exceeding 50 pounds each and one carry on including a purse. Xodus International Group will advise as the airlines policy may be changing in the future to one checked bag per person.
7. Can we upgrade? Yes, the upgrade request should be made with Xodus prior to purchase of the ticket in March 2011. There are certain fares that are upgradable. Please contact Xodus International Group if you wish this to be done. They will provide instructions. It will be based on availability in business or first class and your frequent flyer credit with the airline.
8. Can we get frequent flyer credit for our flights? Yes, this can be done once XIG sends you your final itinerary. Simply call the airline and give them your frequent flyer number or sign up giving them your name and address in order to get credit.
9. What’s the latest we can register? We have deadlines with the air, hotel, tours and ground transportation to meet. We need to have a clear count of those interested in order to satisfy the minimum number of 60 people from the US. The 60 people will need to be traveling on the same dates and flights and staying at the same hotels in order to keep the price as stated. If we do not reach this number then the price of the land will increase based on the final number of registrants.
10. What happens after the due date? We have been promoting this tour for 5 months and we really need to see deposit commitments. After January 5, 2011, we will need to show higher numbers to the airlines and hotels. After this time, the fare may increase and all new registrants will be treated as first come, first serve. Participants will register and XIG will obtain the lowest possible rate for those registering after January 5, 2011.
By March 5, 2011, if we stay on target with the payment plan, we will make a final payment to the airlines in addition to partial payments to the hotels and ground crew. Final payments are due by or before August 1, 2011.
11. New registrants - If there are others that want to join after we have reached our numbers, this would be awesome! We are encouraging people that are not AME’s to come along with us for this exciting trip. If they have ever wanted to visit Africa but would rather travel with a group, now is the time. So please share this information with at least 10-20 people that you know might be interested and ask them to share the information with people they know. Share this information with your social clubs, perhaps other churches, friends and family. Help us to make this trip a success!
12. Deadline regarding airfare: Keep in mind that until the airfare is paid in full, we are subject to increases. Usually the airfare doesn’t change much; however it is the taxes and fuel charges that change. Once you have paid your deposit, Xodus International Group will send a welcome packet with information such as a welcome letter explaining what will happen next, receipt, helpful hints, country information and a payment plan will be located on back of receipt. The payment plan will have a deadline as to when the airfare is due and the balances will be according to the hotel, tour and ground agreement. If we stay on schedule, there should be little to no increases because the plan is to finish paying for the air early!
13. I understand we will visit an orphanage, what donations, and clothing should we take to them? To start, they need light summer clothing, light sweaters, small toys, books, pencils, first aid kits. XIG will have a list of suggested items that will come to you in your in your first mailing.
14. What if we want to leave from another gateway? No problem, special discounted domestic add-on rates are available for individuals traveling from their home cities to JFK. If they are traveling from another country, XIG can assist!
15. What type of hotel accommodations will we have? You have three 5-4-star hotels, based on double occupancy, throughout the program, which includes daily breakfast. Single supplement rates are available for an additional $550.00 for those interested. Note: We will always try to assign you with a roommate but if we are not able to find one then the single rate will apply.
16. Is it possible to extend our trip? Yes, XIG has extended tours to Cape Town, Johannesburg and many other destinations. Simply inform XIG as to the destination you wish to see and they will make your arrangements. This must be done before finalizing your airlines reservations.
17. What about insurance? Insurance is available through your XIG representative. The cost will vary from person to person, depending on age. Once you have sent in your deposit, XIG will send you a brochure regarding the insurance.
18. What is the next step? All participants should go online and register at www.xodusint.com or pick up a registration form, fill it out and send it in to XIG along with your deposit. If you do not have passport numbers, please email the information as soon as possible. The airlines now require that passport numbers, dates of issue and date of expiration as well as birthdates be submitted prior to ticketing.
19. How can we help to promote our tour? Share this information with others - Remember to please speak with potential travelers to help promote this tour. We will be visiting 3 different countries beginning with your Executive board meeting and summit in Zambia, you will also participate in mission work at a local orphanage, see Victoria Falls, enjoy a 2 hour African Princess Sunset Cruise on the Zambezi River, safari in Durban at Hluhluwe and much more! Your help in getting the word out is much appreciated! Please feel free to pick up a few flyers and registration forms to take back to your contacts.
20. In case we have more questions, who do we call? You can call Xodus International Group at 703 971 9660 or email Donna McKeithan at travel@xodusint.com . Their office hours are from Monday-Friday 9:00 am to 5:00 pm.
The purpose of the Lay Organization is to organize and train the lay members of the African Methodist Episcopal Church, so that each member may utilize to the maximum the abilities and skills granted by God, in assisting with the improvement and extension of God's kingdom, and creating happiness, peace and harmony among its members.
A.M.E. Connectional Lay Organization, P.O. Box 7682, Tallahassee, FL 32314
The Connectional Lay Organization: Bishop C. Garnett Henning, Sr., Lay Commission Chairman; Dr. Willie C. Glover, President of the Connectional Lay Organization; Mrs. Eileen S. Warner, CLO Online Administrator
16. VIDEO-CLIP OF THE NFL GOSPEL CHOIR
The NFL Gospel Choir!
It is awesome to see our NFL men singing praises to the Lord; being thankful and passionate. Please watch all the way to the end and enjoy; and we hope that you will share this video-clip with your young people.
Click Here: http://vimeo.com/13921022
17. PRESIDENT OBAMA SIGNS EXECUTIVE ORDER TO IMPLEMENT REFORM RECOMMENDATIONS ON FAITH-BASED AND NEIGHBORHOOD PARTNERSHIPS:
President Obama Signs Executive Order to Implement Reform Recommendations of the President’s Advisory Council on Faith-based and Neighborhood Partnerships:
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, President Obama signed an Executive Order that makes significant improvements to federally funded partnerships between the government and faith-based and neighborhood organizations. These changes were recommended by a taskforce of the President’s Advisory Council on Faith-based and Neighborhood Partnerships, a group of church-state experts from across the ideological spectrum and unanimously approved by the full Advisory Council. These leaders identified specific ways the White House Office of Faith-Based and Neighborhood Partnership should strengthen the constitutional and legal footing of social service partnerships involving religious and neighborhood organizations and provide greater support and clarity to these important organizations.
The full Council report for recommendations on all of these issues is available at
http://www.whitehouse.gov/blog/2010/03/11/a-new-era-partnerships-advisory-council-faith-based-and-neighborhood-partnerships-pr .
“These are important, substantive changes that are directly responsive to the recommendations of church-state experts across the ideological spectrum,” said Joshua DuBois, Executive Director of the White House Office of Faith-Based and Neighborhood Partnerships. “With this Executive Order, we are strengthening and clarifying the legal footing of the government’s relationship with faith-based organizations and underscoring the important role of these organizations in serving individuals, families and communities in need.”
Specifically, the Executive Order:
• Requires the government to protect beneficiaries of federally funded social service programs by providing referrals to alternative providers if the beneficiary objects to the religious character of the organization providing the services;
• Clarifies that decisions about financial awards must be free from political interference or even the appearance of such interference;
• Affirms that faith-based organizations that receive Federal financial assistance may use their facilities to provide social services without removing or altering religious art, icons, scriptures, or other symbols from these facilities. In addition, a faith-based organization that participates in a social service program may retain religious terms in its name, select its board members on a religious basis, and include religious references in its organization's mission statements and other chartering or governing documents;
• Requires the federal government to monitor and enforce standards regarding the relationship between religion and government in ways that avoid excessive entanglement;
• Requires agencies that provide Federal financial assistance to post online regulations, guidance documents, and policies that reflect or elaborate upon the fundamental principles of the Executive Order;
• Requires agencies to post online a list of entities that receive Federal financial assistance for the provision of social service programs;
• Clarifies the principle that organizations engaging in explicitly religious activity must perform these activities outside of and separately in time and location from programs supported with Federal financial assistance, and that participation in any explicit religious activity must be voluntary;
The Executive Order creates an interagency working group of federal agencies, co-chaired by the Office of Management and Budget and the White House Office of Faith-based and Neighborhood Partnerships, to submit to the President a report containing recommendations necessary to ensure that agency regulations and guidance documents are consistent with the fundamental principles of the Order. This is the first time this kind of interagency working group has been established. It will bring about greater uniformity in the rules that will aid in the effort to ensure fidelity to constitutional principles and greater clarity for the nation’s hardworking nonprofits as they serve people in need in line with relevant guidelines.
18. CUBAN CHURCH LEADERS PRESS FOR END TO RELIGIOUS TRAVEL RESTRICTIONS:
WASHINGTON, D.C., Nov. 18, 2010--Religious leaders in the United States and Cuba are hopeful that U.S.-imposed restrictions on religious travel and financial transfers soon will be eased by the Obama administration.
In a Nov. 15-16 visit, a delegation of Cuban Protestant church leaders from the Cuban Council of Churches pressed their concerns about the inhibiting effects of the travel restrictions and financial transfers in meetings with officials of the U.S. Department of State and the National Security Council. They also spoke at a briefing for members of Congress and their staff aides, hosted by Representatives Jeff Flake (R-AZ) and Jim McGovern (D-MA)
One objective of their meetings was to convince the Obama administration to remove severe U.S. restrictions on religious and other “people-to-people” travel, to Cuba. The tightened restrictions, in place since 2005, are an outgrowth of the Bush administration’s new interpretation and application of the U.S. Code governing travel.
The Rev. Raul Suarez Ramos, director of the Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial Center in Havana, said that the long-standing historical relationship "was seriously impaired by the former administration because U.S. churches were given very limited ability to travel to Cuba and many Cuban religious leaders were not given visas to come to the United States."
Under the tightened restrictions national religious organizations like the National Council of Churches and Church World Service, and their member denominations, saw their eligibility for travel to Cuba reduced to no more than once per quarter each year, along with other limitations.
According to Rev. Suarez, the situation has improved for Cuban church leaders to receive visas from the U.S. State Department to come to the United States, but "there are still many limitations."
Those limitations pose a significant problem, says the Rev. John L. McCullough, executive director and CEO of New York-headquartered Church World Service.
"We have little to no flexibility in terms of responding to situations in a timely and appropriate manner by sending the right individuals at the right time to help nurture and develop our relationship with the people and the churches in Cuba,” McCullough said from his office in New York.
Advocates for lifting the travel ban believe there may be reason for optimism.
Following a Nov. 1 White House meeting in which American religious leaders discussed a number of issues, including Cuba, with President Obama, McCullough noted that the President , "indicated an appreciation for the historic relationship" between the churches of Cuba and the United States and "seemed very receptive to deepening the dialogue" around the issue of religious travel to Cuba.
Despite the completion of an inter-agency review of Cuba policy and talk in the Beltway earlier this fall of an impending softening of the administration’s position on travel, there has not been any announcement of a change. The administration is able to remove the restrictions on religious and other "people to people" travel without congressional approval. In April 2009, President Obama removed time restrictions on Cuban-Americans traveling to the country to visit family members.
The delegation also expressed concern that U.S. restrictions on financial transfers are preventing U.S. churches from providing some retired Cuban clergy the pension support owed to them for service during the years when Cuban churches were mission churches of U.S. denominations. This unfortunate situation is causing great distress among many elderly clergy.
The delegation noted that the travel and financial restrictions were two of many harmful aspects of the almost five-decade-old U.S. embargo against Cuba. They urged an end to the embargo and restoration of normal diplomatic relations to allow full engagement between the people of the United States and the people of Cuba.
“Our criticism of the embargo is not for ideological or political reasons,” Rev. Suarez said at the Congressional briefing, “but for spiritual reasons. The embargo causes suffering for the Cuban people.”
The Rev. Pablo Oden Marichal Rodriguez, Executive Secretary of the Cuban Council of Churches and Vice-President of the Evangelical Theological Seminary of Matanzas, Cuba, also emphasized that the embargo “has slowed down the development of the churches in Cuba. It has prevented U.S. churches from participation in the mission of the churches in Cuba.”
The delegation was invited to Washington, D.C. by The Presbyterian Church (USA) Office of Public Witness, which co-hosted them along with Church World Service, the Latin America Working Group, and the Washington Office on Latin America, all long-time partners in the faith community’s robust advocacy effort around Cuba travel and embargo issues.
“We are grateful for the solidarity of U.S. churches with us,” said the Rev. Rafael Columbe Cobas, president of the Pentecostal Christian Church in Cuba,
Members of the delegation from Cuba also included Rev. Marcial Miguel Hernández Salazar, president of the Cuban Council of Churches and president of the Free Evangelical Church in Cuba; Rev. Dr. Reineiro Arce Valentín, moderator of the Reformed Presbyterian Church in Cuba and President of the Evangelical Theological Seminary of Matanzas; Rt. Rev. Griselda Delgado del Carpio, coadjutor Bishop of the Episcopal Church in Cuba; and Rev. Humberto Fuentes, vice-president of the Cuban Council of Churches and pastor of the Methodist Church in Cuba.
19. FREE ELECTRONIC CRITICALLY EDITED GREEK NEW TESTAMENT:
BELLINGHAM, WA--October 28, 2010--The Society of Biblical Literature and Logos Bible Software announced today the release of The Greek New Testament: SBL Edition (SBLGNT), a critically edited Greek New Testament.
For the first time ever, students, teachers, pastors and laypeople throughout the world can access a reliable, critically edited version of the Greek New Testament for free electronically. And because the SBLGNT has a generous end-user license agreement and doesn't require proprietary fonts, users can easily interact with and share the text at no cost.
With the work of textual criticism far from complete, there is a continual need for fresh research and analysis. The SBLGNT, edited by Michael W. Holmes, utilizes a wide range of printed editions, all the major critical apparatuses, and the latest technical resources and manuscript discoveries to establish the text. The result is a critically edited text that differs from the Nestle-Aland/United Bible Societies text in more than 540 variation units.
In addition to the free electronic edition, the Society of Biblical Literature and Logos Bible Software also offer a reasonably priced, professionally produced print edition of the SBLGNT, which includes the full apparatus of variant readings from the NA27 and the four primary editions on which the SBLGNT is based.
To find out more about the SBLGNT or to download a copy, visit http://www.sblgnt.com .
(Thanks to Dr. Ben Witherington who shared this information on his Blog Site)
Read more: http://blog.beliefnet.com/bibleandculture/2010/11/free-critically-edited-greek-new-testament-propels-biblical-scholarship-forward.html#ixzz14z7YwgG6
Editor’s Note: This resource is especially helpful for those who have taken Greek. Take the time to explore all of the links.
20. 16TH EPISCOPAL DISTRICT 2011 ANNUAL CONFERENCE SCHEDULE:
Bishop Sarah F. Davis, Presiding Prelate
Mr. Claytie Davis, Jr., Episcopal Supervisor
Sister Winifee Lawrence, President Women’s Missionary Society
February 02 - Haiti WMS Annual Convention
February 03 -06- Haiti Annual Conference
Mary Beckett AME Church
Duval 22 #1 Croix-des-Bouquets
February 09 - Dominican Republic WMS Convention
February 10-13 - Dominican Republic Annual Conference
Bethel AME Church
Samana, Dominican Republic
February 14-15 - Bishop and Supervisor In La Terrenas, DR
February 22-25 - Global Development Executive Meeting, Johannesburg, South Africa
March 16 - Guyana/Suriname WMS Convention
March 17-20 - Guyana/Suriname Annual Conference
Wright's Temple A.M.E. Church
401 Pineapple Street,
East Ruimveldt Housing Scheme
Georgetown. Guyana
Telephone: 592-223-6290
March 23 - Windward Island WMS Convention
March 24-27 - Windward Island Annual Conference
Sealy Memorial AME Church
St. Michael, Barbados
Telephone: 246-231-8184
March 30 - Jamaica WMS Convention
March 31- April 3 - Jamaica Annual Conference
Chapel of Christ AME Church
15 Swallowfield Road
Kingston 5, Jamaica
April 06 - Virgin Islands WMS Annual Convention
April 07-10 - Virgin Islands Annual Conference
St. Luke AMEC
Frederiksted, St. Croix, Virgin Islands
April 13 - European WMS Annual Convention
April 14-17 European Annual Conference
Richard Allen AME Church
Chamberleyne Road
London NW10, England
April 28-30 - 16th Episcopal District Planning
Meeting, Georgetown, Guyana
21. JERICHO CHURCH REVISITED - (A POETIC/DRAMA):
Narrator: “Please recall sometime ago, we visited a church that we all know:
While many months are now past, it’s quite the same as we saw last.
Only now it’s Christmas at this place and stress shows on every face.
It’s a busy time, everyone all a ‘flutter;’ overdone with much waste
that adds up to clutter.
The steeple is dazzling in star-bright array,
Anyone who’s anyone dares not stay away.
A special choir has been formed to carol in the streets.
The choir director scowls and frowns at all that he meets.
A festive feast has been planned for ‘brightest and best’:
those who have given more than the rest.
The calendar is jam-packed, filled to the brim.
No time can be spared a spontaneous hymn.
22. GOD IS NOT AN EMERGENCY CORD:
*The Rev. N.T. Pitts
In our society we have the advantage of having access to various kinds of emergency devices and services. We can find them on ships, trains, buses, planes, trolleys, elevators, machines; and even in our vehicles we have emergency brakes. If we have any emergencies, we can call 911.
When the need arises, all we have to do is to pull the cord, push the button, break the seal or engage the emergency brake.
There are emergency signs prominently displayed and instructions on how to use them. You will see this statement “In Case of Emergency.”
It seems that some of us have placed God in that category.
We go for years living with our arrogance; not being compassionate; not giving, not being thankful that the Lord has spared us; not taking time to give thanks; too busy to pray; too busy to go to Bible study: too selfish to fellowship; and when disaster strikes we have the audacity to stand and say “Lord help me.” We pull the “emergency cord.”
There are times, in our daily lives, when the emergency device needed, but doesn’t work because it had not been used or serviced.
How often have you heard this statement; “Lord, please get me out of this situation and I will serve you the rest of my days”?
We make promises when we get into trouble that we know we don’t intend to keep; and we don’t. Jeremiah 2:26-29 says:
“As a thief is disgraced when he is caught,
so the people of Israel are disgraced—
they, their kings and their officials,
their priests and their prophets.
They say to wood, ‘You are my father,’
and to stone, ‘You gave me birth.’
They have turned their backs to me
and not their faces;
yet when they are in trouble, they say,
‘Come and save us!’
Where then are the gods you made for yourselves?
Let them come if they can save you
when you are in trouble!
For you, Judah, have as many gods
as you have towns.
“Why do you bring charges against me?
You have all rebelled against me,”
declares the LORD.
Can you imagine what kind of people we would become if God responded to our “Emergency” call whenever we “pull” the cord? We would become a world full of neurotics.
The one mistake we make is that we want God to answer our call immediately and exactly as we ask.
That reminds me of a man who sat on his front porch praying for God to send him a turkey for Thanksgiving. Two people came by and offered him a job. He turned both of them down. You see, he was waiting for God to send him a turkey. Do you get it?
We must keep in mind that having faith is not being foolish. You cannot jump in front of a moving train and expect God to stop it. You cannot leap off a high-rise complex or a bridge and expect God to catch you before you hit the ground.
God is not a magician; God works miracles! He does not pull rabbits out of a hat, but he can, and will, “pull you out.” God does not blow fire out of his mouth, but God will put “fire” in your bones.
We should never squander our time trying to understand God. Isaiah 55:8 says, “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, declares the LORD.”
Don’t just call on God when there is an emergency.
Some years ago when I was coaching, we boarded a bus to travel. One of my players sat next to an emergency door. Before we left he pulled up the emergency door and it open and a bell went off. After I had scolded him about it, he said, “Coach, I just wanted to see if it worked.”
Think about that.
Thought for Today: “We pray most for things we want and pray little for the things we need.” NTP
*The Rev. N.T. Pitts [Ptaegar@AOL.Com], Author, Teacher, Counselor, Humorist, is a retired Itinerant Elder who lives in Eatonville, Florida.
23. CLERGY FAMILY CONGRATULATORY ANNOUNCEMENT:
- Congratulations to the Rev. Samuel and the Rev. Wanda Jenkins
The Rev. Samuel and Rev. Wanda Jenkins recently celebrated their 30th Wedding Anniversary at a luncheon gala surrounded by family, friends, former and present church members. Rev. Wanda Jenkins is the pastor of Robert Thomas, Sr. Memorial AME Church, Chicago, Illinois.
The Rev. Sam and the Rev. Wanda Jenkins were blessed with the anniversary gift of a new granddaughter, Nilah Noel Jenkins, courtesy of their son and his wife, Joshua and Tiffany Jenkins. The Rev. Sam and the Rev. Wanda's nephew, Andrew Jenkins, a member of the Howard University Choir appears with First Lady Michelle Obama in the November 2010 issue of Harper's Bazaar Magazine.
Words of congratulations may be sent to: samuelljenkinsjr@yahoo.com
24. FUNERAL ARRANGEMENTS FOR MR. EVANS CHARLES, PRESIDENT OF THE 20TH EPISCOPAL DISTRICT LAY ORGANIZATION:
Mr. Evans Charles passed away suddenly Tuesday evening, November 9, 2010. Mr. Charles of Harare, Zimbabwe, was a member of Phillip Life Centre African Methodist Episcopal Church in Harare, and at the time of his death was the Twentieth Episcopal District Lay President, serving with great distinction. His love for the African Methodist Episcopal Church was unparalleled.
Brother Charles' passion was education for the AME clergy as well as for the laity. To that end, he worked untiringly to secure funding for any educational endeavor.
Brother Charles will be missed by all who knew and loved him.
The funeral has been held.
Condolences may be sent to his wife, Mrs. Mary Charles
456 Matilda Gardens uplands Waterfalls
Harare, Zimbabwe
Mobile: 011 263 172610424
25. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
We regret to share the passing of Brother Daniel W. Thomas, Sr., the 93-year-old father of the Rev. Daniel W. Thomas, Jr., pastor of Greater St. Matthew AMEC, Louisville, Georgia. Brother Thomas was a WW II veteran, and faithful member of the New Tennille Circuit AMEC, formerly Jordan Station AMEC, serving on the Steward Board, Trustee Board, and a member of the Senior Choir.
The funeral has been held.
Condolences and Expressions of sympathy may be sent to:
The Rev. Daniel Thomas, Jr.
PO Box 12
Tennille, Georgia 31089
Phone: (478) 552-0802 or (404) 803-4064(cell)
26. 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
27. 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.
