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 – Since 1852
1. EDITORIAL – WE NEED TO WORK ON A COUPLE OF MORE THINGS:
Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III
The 20th Editor of The Christian Recorder
We have so many things for which to be thankful.
The year 2010 has passed so quickly and so much has happened; and still there is so much to do and added to that we are in 2011 and it seems as if this is going to be a fast-moving year also.
Years ago, I heard the story; don’t know if it’s a joke or whether it was a real story: “A preacher was appointed to a new church and preached a dynamic sermon. The parishioners commented upon his delivery and they were so happy to have such an outstanding preacher. Word went all around town about his eloquence. The next Sunday, he preached the same sermon. The people were a little concerned, but figured that the pastor may have forgotten that he had preached that same sermon the previous Sunday. The next Sunday and for several Sundays after that, the pastor preached the exact same sermon. The people were greatly concerned that the pastor might have had a touch of Alzheimer’s disease and several stewards went to the pastor to share their concerns about hearing the same sermon Sunday after Sunday. The pastor promised to address their concerns with the congregation the next Sunday. The church was full and just before the sermon; the pastor explains why he had preached the same sermon over and over and planned to do so again. He said, ‘I noticed after the first sermon that no one changed their behavior and even after the next sermon everybody continued doing what they were always doing. I determined that my sermon did not have the impact of changing your behavior and I decided that I would preach the same sermon over again and when you are obedient to the message in that sermon, I would move on and preach another sermon. God wants us to change and sermons should have an impact upon the lives of the parishioners. That’s the reason I am preaching the same sermon over and over again.’”
I am sure that a lot of preachers would like to believe that their sermons are making a difference in the lives of their parishioners. It’s a disappointment when pastors have to acknowledge that some of their well-crafted sermons fall on glazed eyes and parishioners will commit the same sins over and over again; and in spite of the most inspirational sermons, the church membership remains the same. A pastor would love to know that his or her ministry is making a difference.
Most of us, regardless of our profession or life’s work would like to feel that we are making a difference in the lives of people. Parents would like to believe that their parenting is making a difference in the lives of their children. Teachers would like to think that their teaching is making a difference in the lives of their students. Those in the medical profession would like to think that they are making a difference in the lives of their patients; and lawyers would like to think that they are making a difference in the lives of their clients.
As the Editor of The Christian Recorder ministry, I would like to think that the editorials and the articles written by so many dedicated writers are making a difference in the lives of our subscribers.
While I do get a sense of some positive change, in other areas I sense that some of us are “stuck in our old ways. Let me address several areas where I think we can do better.
Technology
We need to be reminded that the computer and technology is a good thing when it is used correctly, but can create all kinds of problems when we use the technology carelessly. Email addresses should be proprietary; yours, as well as everybody else’s email address. When you put an email address where everybody can receive it, it is no longer proprietary.
When email message are forwarded, all email address within the body of the message should be deleted before forwarding the message and the Bcc field should be used when sending multiple addressed email messages. The Bcc field should be used when forwarding email messages to several people.
When we expose people’s email addresses, we put them at risk for spammers and unscrupulous people who are trying to gain access to email addresses and other personal information. We still see too many exposed email addresses. Guess what, there is a “Help” menu on every computer and it will show how to use Bcc. We can do better.
More on technology
Things were less complicated when The Christian Recorder Online began in 2004. We have now gotten so large that unscrupulous entities are attempting to take advantage.
One way they do that is to take the first part of our email address and add something to it and if a person opening their email messages were not paying attention, they would think that the message came from TCR. For instance, a person might get an email with an address: [tcr@the-christian-recorder.sex.org]. Messages as that one would not be from The Christian Recorder. Unscrupulous persons also manipulate personal email messages the same way. Additionally, The Christian Recorder does not ask subscribers for additional information. Unscrupulous persons or groups have tried all kinds of things to usurp our name and our great reputation now that we have a large number of subscribers and visitors to our Website. More care needs to be taken when opening email messages. Always examine email addresses carefully before opening email messages. We can do better.
Ministry and care for caregivers
There is still too much mean-spirited behavior and unresolved conflict in some of our churches. Church people have long memories and we have too many laity and clergy holding grudges and failing to forgive. Some congregations have not learned to resolve conflict or how to find or utilize resources for conflict resolution.
Pastoral care for the caregivers
So many preachers are so busy in ministry that they are not taking care of themselves or their families. Ministry is preaching and teaching the gospel, visiting the sick and shut-ins, visiting the prisoners in jail, assisting senior citizens, counseling wayward youths, comforting the broken-hearted, mending broken spirits, spending time in prayer, sermon preparation, reading books, newspapers and the AMEC periodicals, developing relationships in the community, taking care of administrative church responsibilities, preparing for official board and other church meetings, attending episcopal, district and connectional AME meetings, and other functions of ministry. Some pastors are so busy with ministry that they are not taking time for themselves. A pastor needs to spend time with his or her family, take time for fun, recreation, and relaxation; and to take vacations.
And, more importantly, pastors need to schedule annual/semi-annual physicals and dental appointments. As a matter of fact, outstanding local church officers should insist that their pastor take time for himself or herself; and demand that the pastor take a vacation; and insure that the pastor schedules medical and dental appointments. Pastors should encourage each other to take better care of themselves. A healthy, rested and refreshed pastor is a more effective pastor. We can do better at taking care of our caregivers.
There are many more things that we can do better, but if we can improve in the areas of technology and pastoral care for our caregivers, we will be off to a great start.
We have done some things better
Our use of technology has expanded and improved. Today, if an AME says, “I don’t know what’s going on in the AME Church,” we can be sure that person is not reading the AME periodicals, looking at the Official AME Website [http://www.ame-church.com/], or checking out the other AME Church Websites.
Can’t scam AME Churches anymore
Several years ago, we were plagued with a scam of persons trying unscrupulously con money from our churches claiming that a car needed to be repaired and that they were the niece of one of our bishops. The print and online editions of The Christian Recorder and The Christian Index, the official newspaper of the Christian Methodist Episcopal Church exposed that scam and we haven’t heard recently of any of our churches being duped out of money.
And, if any AME pastor or AME Church has been duped or taken in by this scam we can be certain that the pastor; or his or her officers have not been reading The Christian Recorder. That scam is behind us, and the scammers probably have moved on to another denomination.
So, for now we can stop writing about our churches being scammed, because we have dealt with that problem and we can move on to other subjects.
2. THE 24TH ANNUAL SEMINAR ON CHURCH GROWTH AND EVANGELISM AME CHURCH, JANUARY 4-7, 2011, LOS ANGELES CALIFORNIA:
The Department of Church Growth and Development AME Church, is pleased to announce its 24th Annual Seminar on Church Growth and Evangelism, "New Methods for an Ancient Message," will be held January 4-7, 2011, at the Hilton Los Angeles Airport Hotel, Los Angeles California.
The attached brochure contains information regarding this Seminar including: preachers and facilitators, registration forms for the Seminar and the Evangelism Certification Program, and a schedule of sessions and worship services. Please feel free to reproduce and share the brochure with others. In addition, the early bird registration date was extended.
Should you have any questions and/or require any additional information, please do not hesitate to contact Dr. James Wade at (847) 338-2581 or email: ameharvest@aol.com.
We do pray that you and those who you know will be available to travel to Los Angeles, so that together we may better reach the world for Christ!
**Submitted by the Rev. Dr. Cheryl L. Green, Administrative Assistant, Co-Dean of Annual Seminars, AMEC Church Department of Church Growth and Development
3. SISTER ELVIRE DOUGLAS IN HAITI SAYS, "THANK YOU":
Before I put a full stop at the end of 2010, Let me express my gratitude to you ALL. “I am thankful to all of you as your prayers, your words of comfort, your caring love, your financial support helped me to sail the ragging sea of 2010 that threatened to send me down under to raise up again with unconditional hope as I now moved forward to enter a New Year.”
My wish for you is to set aside any regrets, hardship, heartbrokenness, illnesses, losses you may have encountered in your lives during this year and enjoy the holiday season with thankfulness of having Jesus holding the steering wheel and look forward to a recovery and transformational life in the joyful love of God.
*Sister Elvire Douglas is the Connectional Assistant Recording Secretary of the WMS; Treasurer of the Haiti Annual Conference; 16th District Director of Disaster Preparedness; and Official Interpreter for Bishop Sarah Davis
4. BISHOP GREGORY G.M. INGRAM EPISCOPAL FAMILY UPDATE FROM SUPERVISOR JESSICA INGRAM;
Bishop Gregory G.M. Ingram is home in Dallas, TX. He is resting comfortably and is making really good progress. The total recovery period is 6-8 weeks. Again we thank you for all of your expressions of concern.
Keep him in your prayers.
Supervisor Jessica Ingram
Telephone: 313.806.8180
Email: journeyministry@aol.com
Submitted by the Rev. Dr. Jessica Ingram, 10th Episcopal District Supervisor of Missions
5. COMMISSIONER E. GAIL ANDERSON HOLNESS WILL BE SWORN-IN AT CEREMONY FOR ALL ADVISORY NEIGHBORHOOD COMMISSIONERS:
Commissioner E. Gail Anderson Holness will be sworn in at the Swearing - In Ceremony for ALL Advisory Neighborhood Commissioners. The Swearing - In Ceremony for ALL Advisory Neighborhood Commissioner was held Sunday, January 2, 2011 at The Walter E. Washington Convention Center.
Commissioner Anderson said, “With your help, I was re-elected for a second two year term to serve the good people of ANC 1B11. I am looking forward to serving as your ANC Commissioner and a member of ANC 11B team!
Thank you for your continued vote of confidence to serve in ONE CITY!”
Dr. Holness received 99.13% of the vote (Certified Result - the highest in the District).
Details about the ceremony:
ANC Swearing- In Ceremony: Sunday, January 2, 2011 at 1:00 p. m. at The Walter E. Washington Convention Center, Ballroom C, 801 Mt. Vernon Place NW, Washington, DC. The doors open at 12 noon - Tickets are not required
Submitted by the Rev. Dr. E. Gail Anderson Holness, Commissioner
6. AME ITINERANT ELDER TO DELIVER CONGRESSIONAL SWEARING-IN INVOCATION:
The Rev. Deborah Blanks, AME Itinerant Elder and Chaplain at Princeton University will Deliver the invocation at the formal swearing-in ceremony of Congressman Rush Holt
On tomorrow, Wednesday, January 5, 2011 at 11:00 a.m., the Rev. Dr. Deborah Blanks, Itinerant Elder in the African Methodist Episcopal Church and Chaplain at Princeton University will deliver the invocation at the formal swearing-in ceremony of Congressman Rush Holt Congressional District number 12 of New Jersey as a member of the 112th Congress at the Library of Congress, Capitol Hill, Washington, D.C.
The Honorable Nancy Pelosi, Congressional District Number 8 of California; the Honorable John Lewis, Congressional District Number 5 of Georgia; and Princeton University Pulitzer Prize-winning poet Paul Muldoon will also be participating in the swearing-in ceremony.
The Rev. Deborah Blanks said, “God is good and I am privileged to be God’s representative of the African Methodist Episcopal Church.”
7. CONGRATULATIONS TO THE REV. HAROLD LOVE:
Congratulations to the Rev. Harold Love, Jr. and St. Paul AME, Nashville for being featured in the Nashville Scene magazine as a key center of flood relief activity for the North Nashville area after the May 3, 2010 floods.
Every year for the last 21 years, the Nashville Scene has awarded a person (or persons) the distinguished title of Nashvillian of the Year for their efforts at making the city a better place. This year, the award went to the Rev. Harold Love.
8. HARLEM CHURCH DELIVERS FREE FOOD TO SNOWBOUND TRAVELERS AT NEW YORK AREA TRANSPORTATION CENTERS:
NEW YORK, NY JANUARY 1, 2010: St. Luke AME Church in Harlem (www.stlukeamenyc.org), under the leadership of Pastor Melvin Wilson, packed up 250 turkey sandwiches, chips, and drinks for post holiday travelers stranded in 2 feet of snow at Penn Station and the Port Authority Bus Terminal in New York. The bagged lunch outreach effort was put together after Pastor Wilson witnessed countless news reports of thousands of people stranded with no place to go. That is when he called on volunteers from his congregation to begin a massive outreach effort to feed and brighten the hopes of the seemingly hopeless. “At first the airport and MTA officials told me they had everything under control and they did not need our assistance,” says Pastor Wilson. “By that time we had already ordered the food and organized volunteers so we just showed up.” About 7 volunteers handed out 250 bagged lunches with an inspirational message that read “Provided With Love By St. Luke A.M.E. Church, New York, NY.” They passed out the lunches to stranded passengers at Penn Station and the Port Authority Bus Terminal. Most of the people who received the sandwiches were very grateful. St. Luke AME Church is known for these “random acts of kindness.‟
During the summer heat wave, and as part of an Evangelistic Outreach, the church passed out thousands of bottles of water for free to people in the New York City area. They also have used thousands of dollars from the church’s benevolent offering fund to assist persons from all walks of life with various needs. All of these acts of kindness include an inspirational message of hope for people who may be going through something at the time. “Part of our church’s mission statement is that we not only preach the gospel, but that we also feed the hungry, clothe the naked, and shelter the homeless,” says Pastor Wilson. “These random acts of kindness are just a small way to administer to the needs of other people.” Pastor Wilson says that we have been blessed to be a blessing, and when people are on the receiving end of these blessings, it brightens their day, warms the heart of the giver, and puts us in compliance with what Jesus Christ would have his church to do.
For more information on the outreach efforts at St. Luke AME Church or to schedule an interview with the pastor or church volunteers contact Leslie Patterson-Tyler at (609) 247-2632. Pictures of the distribution are also available for publication.
9. THE COUNCIL OF BISHOPS PUBLIC STATEMENT:
Council of Bishops
1040 19th Street North
Birmingham, AL 35203
Bishop James Levert Davis
PRESIDENT, COUNCIL OF BISHOPS
Bishop John Richard Bryant
SENIOR BISHOP
January 5, 2011
The Bishops of the African Methodist Episcopal Church, meeting in Council agreed that effective January 3, 2011, the presiding bishop of the 15th Episcopal District is Bishop E. Earl McCloud, Jr.; and the presiding bishop of the 18th Episcopal District is Bishop Wilfred J. Messiah.
Sometimes in the life of the Church, we are required to make difficult decisions for the good of the Church. The bishops of this Church must be committed to the AME Polity and structure of the law while being pastoral in the life of every member of the A.M.E. Church.
Both Bishop Messiah and Bishop McCloud, by mutual agreement, and, consistent with the godly judgment of the Council of Bishops, seek unity and peace in the body of Christ.
The Council of Bishops extends their good thoughts and prayers to Bishops Messiah and McCloud and their families at this time of transition as they assume their “new” work so close to the end of the quadrennial.
We also extend prayers for the members of the 15th and 18th Episcopal Districts as they make adjustments in leadership to do effective ministry in unity within the body of Christ.
It is also our prayer that we can all now devote our attention to the “Call” that God has placed upon us.
Council of Bishops
The African Methodist Episcopal Church
10. ST. PAUL AME CHURCH J.A.M. YOUTH MINISTRY CHRISTMAS CELEBRATION:
December 10, 2010 Marked another night of youthful celebration as the J.A.M. Youth ministry gathered in St. Paul’s Centennial Hall Worship Centre. Friday night saw a culmination of three major component ministries at St. Paul come together to host youth members, as well as children and youth from the community who are not members of the church. The evening kicked-off with a Christmas drama presentation on the “Miracle Birth of Jesus.” The play was the vision of the J. A. M. coordinator Mrs. Nadine Lapsley- Dyer whom also served as narrator. Children of all ages participated, playing various biblical characters in the nativity story.
On hand to witness this eventful production were numerous parents of children in the play and those on hand to watch. Parents, youth, and children were treated to a night of arts and crafts, games, activities, a movie on the big screens, and a delightful holiday meal. The Christmas spirit filled the air, as volunteer parents decorated the church’s Christmas tree.
The J. A. M. Youth ministry also has an outreach component as parents, members of the church and many kind-hearted persons donated toys for needy families in Bermuda. What a feeling of excitement as three huge containers were filled to the brim with new toys. The Rev. Dr. Lanel D. Guyton, accompanied by The Honorable Michael A. Weekes, JP, MP presented the donated toys to Mrs. Valerie Williams, principal of Victor Scott; and Mrs. Tresca Scott, counselor. Victor Scott School is St. Paul’s adopted school, and has been for four years (Nadine Lapsley Dyer- coordinator). Said the Rev. Dr. Guyton, “I applaud those who donated toys as well as monetary gifts on this occasion; it is without a doubt certain families in Bermuda will be blessed and able to have a more joyful Christmas as a result of the church’s giving.”
The J. A. M. Youth ministry comprises of the Church School, Young People’s Division (Y.P.D.), and the Youth Choir. The program begins at six o’clock and ends at nine o’clock. The children are transitioned three each of the ministries before being fed by volunteers and members of the St. Paul Missionary society.
The original intent and purpose of J.A.M. was to continue ministering to our young people throughout St. Paul’s church renovations, because of limited space. Now that the church renovations are nearing completion, the St. Paul Board of Steward continues to operate J.A.M. Youth ministry on Friday nights with a special emphasis on outreach.
11. ST. MARK’S AFRICAN METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH OF TOPEKA KANSAS CELEBRATES KWANZAA:
On December 26, 2010, the St. Mark’s African Methodist Episcopal Church of Topeka Kansas celebrated Kwanzaa. As many know Kwanzaa is celebrated from December 26 – January 1. In spite of its week long tradition, the St. Mark AME Church family along with its pastor, the Reverend Eraina Marie Ross-Aseme took time to reflect on the history of being an African American during this time in history.
Sister Karlene Williams coordinated members to bring covered dishes to the Kwanzaa celebration. The food served was fried chicken, ham, Harvest soup, greens, green beans, baked beans, black eyed peas, Jollof rice (an African dish), desserts, carrot cake and pumpkin roll. In addition, punch, coffee, and water were served. As music was playing by some Nigerian music artist, people were gathering and fellowshipping with one another. African artifacts were displayed on a designated table along with items used for Kwanzaa, candle holder (kinara) and seven candles, 3 red, 1 black and 3 green; straw mat (mkeka), and kikombe cha umoja (cup). Also a straw basket was placed on the table holding fruit and vegetables, and a whole pineapple. Alongside of the designated table was a charcoal drawing portrait of Foster Chisholm’s great, great grandparents drawn by his brother David Adams. The portrait was enclosed in a dark wooden frame affix on an easel.
Pastor Aseme opened the Kwanzaa celebration with prayer and read information gathered from many sources regarding the meaning of Kwanzaa. She reiterated that Kwanzaa is not a religious holiday but a time to reflect on our cultural heritage. In addition Pastor Aseme stated that the first publication of the U. S. Postage stamp was on October 22, 1997 and the second stamp printed in 2004 for Kwanzaa. In addition, Pastor Aseme stated that this is a great way to gather ourselves as a people and uplift those who left a legacy for us. There were young people present to observe and participant in the Kwanzaa celebration at St. Mark’s. Dante’ Barber a teenager gave the welcome with such poise.
The Seven Principles (The Nguzo Sabo) were presented by seven persons who lit a candle for each principle that was read along with an impromptu presentation of the word. The following persons participated: Umoja (Unity), Lanafaye Barber; Kujichagulia (Self-determination), Alex Gardenhire 97 years young; Ujima (Collective work and Responsibility), Carolyn Campbell; Ujamaa (Cooperative Economics), Gary Douglas and Mariah Douglas; Nia (Purpose), Dr. Gilbert R. Parks; Kuumba (Creativity), Foster Chisholm; and Imani (Faith), Carolyn Ross.
In addition, the program called for a “Glimpse of Africa”; therefore the first man of St. Mark’s, Patrick Chukwudifu Aseme, who is a native of Nigeria, West Africa, gave us a glimpse of Africa in sharing his experience of the journey from the Motherland Africa to the United States of America in 1979. Brother Aseme explained how his intentions were to come and receive an advanced education and to go back to Nigeria West Africa to share with his family and community. But that is not the way it turned out. The audience chuckled. He explained how in his journey he met the Reverend Eraina M. Ross-Aseme and therefore he remained in the United States. Brother Aseme said that he does not regret going back to Nigeria but when his family cries out for help he must respond if he is able because that is what Africans do; reach back and help. In addition, Brother Aseme stated that “Education is free in America, and young people must take advantage of every opportunity to learn and can go to the ‘moon’ because the sky is the limit.” Furthermore, Pastor Aseme asked the congregation if they had any questions for Brother Patrick Aseme.
Following Brother Aseme’s presentation, attendees were asked to share about people who have made an impact in the past, present and future in their life. Several people shared and it was a very moving experience while reflecting on others who have made a major impact on our individual lives. The future reflection was pointed to the youth that were present. Two prizes were given away: a turkey and a wrapped fruit basket.
The Kwanzaa celebration lasted 2 hours after Sunday morning worship service and closed with prayer with everyone joining hands in a circle. Afterwards the fruits and vegetables that were in the basket on the main table during the Kwanzaa celebration were distributed to the attendees.
Submitted by,
The Reverend Eraina Marie Ross-Aseme, B.A., M. Div.
St. Mark’s African Methodist Episcopal Church
801 N.W. Harrison St.
Topeka, Kansas 66608
Fifth Episcopal District – Midwest Conference
www.stmarkstopeka.com
785-232-0709 Church phone
12. AFRICA MUST DEFINE HERSELF:
*The Rev Tulane Msibi
An article I wrote on “Are We Striving for an Indigenous Leadership or Indigenous Church has sparked indirect responses which I am excited because it was intended to receive feedback, no matter how and who makes a comment on the article, some agree, disagree and others are confused. It is a normal reaction when people are trying to occupy the galaxy of space searching for true reflection of mastering definition of their identity.” WE ARE ON COURSE”. Steadily, the dark clouds of despair and confusion are lifting, giving way to our season of hope.
In my own contacts with AME’s I meet and talk to, there is a constant refrain: What can we do to help build a better AME church in Africa?
The critical challenge is that we have a duty to define ourselves within the Connectional church and the world around us, we should speak on the subject of Africa Development for the enhancement of the AME church, so that we ourselves, and not another, determine who we are, what we stand for, what our vision and hopes are, how we do things, what programmes we adopt to make our life in the Connectional church worth recognized, who we relate to and how.
The wrong stereotypes, myths, dehumanizing and disrespectful attitudes exists about Africans as liars, incompetent, drunkards, unintelligent, dishonest and unimaginative. I have served as a pastor under five Bishops; H.B. Senatle, C.G. Henning, A.J. Richardson, J.L. Davis and currently J.N. Leath. Four of them as Americans succeeded Bishop Senatle, and African.
Bishop Henning used to say in his fatherly expression that “We should learn to relate with each other from our position of strength.” That statement and many other fatherly comments he made, made an indelible impact upon my spirit.
The American Bishops never exploited the desperate situation of Africans and never exhibited insensitivity, ego and a “know it all attitudes.” They knew our strengths and weaknesses and complimented our strengths and capabilities and never referred to us as “African districts in a mess.”
Despite their unique style of leadership, they never used the public platform to criticize their constituency, other bishops, or their predecessors. They never disrespected the congregation and of course never compromised the divine integrity of the Episcopal office to undermine the work and efforts of their predecessors. Their listening skills and openness to advice was without fault.
They had, and have power of pastoral appointments but never used that to torture Pastors and purge those who were correctly and innocently loyal to their predecessors.
Their respect for Bishop Senatle as an African was beyond words to describe. We were treated on merit and performance, not on personal relationships, friendship or cheap gossip.
The rationale behind this analysis on my bishops, is to appreciate and commend them for their sterling work in Africa. They gave us an incredible respect.
Africa is so vulnerable and sensitive to any form of platform which characterize them as inferior, unintelligent and instill fear to defend what we believe is right. We were taught to respect and not victimize people even if they held views different from us. Furthermore we were taught that to swear at people or otherwise resort to foul language, indicated that the dialogue or communication had ended and the relationship, threatened.
Whatever a leader does can either build or destroy the morale, relationship, esteem and confidence of the people and leave a lasting legacy in that particular community, especially in a vulnerable community like Africa.
Let me get to the matter on how Africa must define herself
Respect for the truth, obliges me to say that it would be eminently dishonest to pretend and assert that the challenges of our Zion in AFRICA can be limited to the scope of indigenous leadership as the key issue to defining who we are as Africans.
The demographic approach of adjusting the structure of the Church in Africa can be good but not a priority, when looking at the broader picture of the common needs of African community than in a myopic and subjective view of leadership and structural bureaucracy.
When we speak of African development, we must speak of ending poverty and underdevelopment on our continent and, therefore, the building of a better life for the ordinary people of Africa and our Church, and the assertion of our pride as human beings and equally important members of the Connectional Church, with a culture and identity that define our personality.
It will be a betrayal of our African identity and pride to allow ourselves be divided on which part of Africa is better or richer than the other.
Africa must speak, too, of our determination to ensure that no one defines us in dehumanizing contexts as incompetent and unintelligent. Africa must design and implement programmes that impact positively on the sustainable development in our continent.
These are needs, which do not primarily require an indigenous leader or culture to meet; they are common challenges facing all of us.
Culture is concerned about the past and present, and promises no special goal in time and history. It may boast of golden age, but it knows of no paradise regained. Culture has no eschatology. Culture knows how to bury the dead, but it does not know what to do with the soul of a man in the final analysis because it has no resurrection, so to speak.
Culture has limitations beyond which it cannot take humankind. It is the responsibility of the universal Gospel to take over from the cultural limitations which detain men and women from reaching the “Promised Land” of his or her faith in Christ.
There are other values and heights beyond those of culture. The Christian is a cultural pilgrim, and not a settler, moving with his or her cultural “luggage” towards the eschatological goal of the Gospel.
As an African proverb says, “He or she who guides you by the night can be trusted by day.”
May God enable Church leaders to guide God’s African people by night and by day.
The question is, “Are we doing enough work as Africans to provide for the African content?
It is within the continental and connectional context that I’m confident that we shall work together for a better Church that shall overcome the divisions that exist between “the haves and have-nots.”
The main objective we confront in this regard is that we, Africans, must take on the responsibility to answer the question: What are the ways and means that we must adopt to ensure that we achieve these objectives of defining ourselves.
I have no doubt that the possibility of the Africans governing themselves and the independence will create a capacity to use human resource of the continent effectively for the benefit of the indigenous community, but we must be empowered to speak out about what we want for ourselves, without an imposed agenda drawn by people who think they know what Africa wants.
The problem with some of our African compatriots is uncertainty and a deep fear of the future because they cannot define themselves outside the categories of holding certain positions and sometimes fostering relationships, which define them as inferior and overshadowed by the uncontrollable ambitions and desire for power.
John Thomas III, in his response to my article says there are people who are more equal than others. Well, we all know that’s how people can perceive themselves, but it is contrary to the doctrine of human creation.
As we nurture and map our future, we need to work assiduously towards strengthening our Connectional relationships as African Methodists, and eliminate mindsets of inferiority and superiority from the consciousness of our people. If we do that, we will realize our dream of a prosperous, equal and just African Methodist Episcopal Church.
Contextualizing theology does not mean that each cultural group is free to twist and proof-text the Bible into its way thinking.
So many groups seem to have its special interests and are capable of using the Bible to defend its own cultural points of view. It was possible to find whites using the Bible to support Apartheid, various forms of racial segregation and economic oppression and even indifference to the need for global evangelization.
*The Rev Tulane Msibi is the pastor of Mokone Temple in Ga-Rankuwa (19TH Episcopal District) South Africa
13. PRESIDING ELDER BENJAMIN RIDLEY CHALLENGES THE EAST MACON-MILLEDGEVILLE DISTRICT (EMMD) CONFERENCE:
It was the week before Thanksgiving when the Macon Conference East Macon-Milledgeville District came together for the District Conference.
The East Macon-Milledgeville District has survived, sustained and grown over the last 16 years under the dynamic leadership of our beloved Presiding Elder Benjamin Ridley. Elder Ridley is known in and around the District and community as “Elder Ben the People’s Friend” and he was as always accompanied and supported by our stellar First Lady, Sister Dorothy E. Ridley.
Our District Motto is, “God Will Not Be without a Witness,” however, the Annual meeting of the District Conference theme was a riveting question, “Can You Show God’s Grace?”
The conference was hosted by Pastor David and First Lady Karen Luke and the Flipper Chapel AME Church family in Milledgeville, Georgia. Activities began with the Friday evening opening worship service. The praise and worship team of Flipper Chapel ushered in the Holy Spirit and we were all in full worship mode.
We began with the traditional hymn, “Amazing Grace,” reading of the scripture and then a rousing and thought-provoking message delivered by the Rev. Forrest Dickey, pastor of Jordan Chapel AME Church. Pastor Dickey was introduced by his wife, First Lady Lydia Dickey. He brought a message from the book of John 21: 15-19 entitled, “It Comes with the Territory.”
Day 2 of the District Conference began with praise and worship led by Licentiates from various churches in the District. With the awakening of the Holy Spirit early on that Saturday morning, as always, there was much to share and learn for those attending the Conference.
The workshops were geared for our youth as well as the adults. The topics ranged from, “Be Safe and Prepared,” superbly presented by Detective James Thompson of the Milledgeville Police Department and an excellent and informative presentation on “Financial Survival Strategies,” by Mr. Billy Pitts, President / CEO of Mutual Financial Group.
There was discussion and sharing of information on the current national threat, “Diabetes,” A presentation and discussion on, “When Sugar is not always Sweet.” That session was presented by Dr. Cassandra G. Tancil, President/CEO of BCPS Co. The youth were educated about Diabetes and nutrition by Sister Patricia Phillips, EMMD YPD Director with a film entitled, “Are You Eating the Right Things?” and discussion about wholesome eating habits. The youth also had lots of fun and the opportunity to participate in a spelling bee coordinated by Sister Barbara West, EMMD Christian Education Director; Sister Verneda Appling, Macon Conference Christian Education Director; and Sister Marilyn Norfleet, EMMD Recording Secretary.
Other youth exercised their creative talents by doing “Arts & Crafts” appropriate for the season with Sister Debra Barnes. As always, there was something for everyone and plenty of opportunities to learn, share and fellowship.
Day 2 continued with an inspirational message delivered by the Rev. L. Bernard Sutton, recently assigned pastor of Salem AME Church in Gray, Ga. and the newest addition to Elder Ridley's powerful and dynamic team of pastors. Rev. Sutton was introduced by his wife, the Rev. Hope Sutton and he gave a thought-provoking message from the book of John 11: 44 entitled, “Loose for a Purpose.” Scheduling the Re. L. Bernard Sutton to preach was a great opportunity for all members of the District to meet this dynamic couple and hear God’s word from the newest pastor in our District.
The close of the conference came after the “Hour of Power,” with the District reports, announcements, resolutions and lunch.
All is well in the Macon Georgia Conference East Macon Milledgeville District and while we were revived, we were also reminded that as we deal with each other and life, it is important to remember that every day, in every way, we have opportunities to set the example for others by asking of ourselves first, “Can We Show God’s Grace?”
Submitted by Sister Diane C. Allen
St. James AME Church
East Macon Milledgeville District
Bradley, Georgia
14. “BRING ON YOUR ‘A’ GAME,” PRODUCED BY MARIO VAN PEEPLES AND KAREN WILLIAMS, PLUS STAR-STUDDED CAST OF NOTABLE BLACK AMERICANS IS A “MUST SEE” VIDEO:
Editor’s Note #2: Thanks to Mr. Jason Darby, appended below is the SnagFilms Website where the entire video, “Bring on your ‘A’ Game” can be viewed.
This video should be shown to every young black child and especially to our young black men. Show these video clips to your children and to your neighbors, to your YPDers. This is a “must view” video. You can view the video in about 23 minutes. The video can be downloaded to various platforms, i.e., mobile phone, computer, etc.
You can watch the entire film SnagFilms Website.
http://www.snagfilms.com/films/title/bring_your_a_game/
15. MISSION AND MINISTRY OF THE AME CHURCH PRESENTATION DELIVERED AT CONVO XIV IN ATLANTA, GA; DECEMBER 6-7, 2010:
*Mr. John Thomas III
The inclusion of a large percentage of laity scheduled to present in this CONVO is a positive sign and we hope that in the future there will be even more laypersons to take part in the important conversations related to the AME Church.
The outline of this presentation is as follows: 1) Understanding the Mission; 2) Implementation Challenges (International, Domestic, Special Focus: Young Adults); and 3) Summary.
As the Young Adult Representative of the Connectional Lay Organization, I figured that I would place some emphasis on the Young Adults—especially given the fact that I am in the minority in this room.
For the purposes of this presentation, I am defining “ministry” as “the way in which we practice/execute our mission”.
Part 1: Understanding the Mission
The mission, vision, purpose, and objectives of the AME Church can be found on page 16 of the 2008 Book of Discipline.
Mission
The Mission of the AME Church is to minister to the social, spiritual, and physical development of all people.
Vision
At every level of the Connection and in every local church, the AME Church shall engage in carrying out the spirit of the original Free African Society, out of which the AME Church evolved: that is, to seek out and save the lost, and to serve the needy. It is also the duty of Church to continue to encourage all members to become involved in all aspects of church training.
Purpose
The ultimate purposes are: make available God’s biblical principles; spread Christ’s liberating gospel; and provide continuing programs which will enhance the entire social development of all people.
Objectives
In order to meet the needs of every level of the Connection and in every local church, the AME Church shall implement strategies to train all members in: Christian discipleship; Christian leadership; Current teaching methods and materials; History and significance of the AME Church; God’s biblical principles; and Social Development to which all should be applied to daily living.
Do AMEs know their mission? One way to analyze this question is by examining the websites of our Episcopal Districts. In today’s increasingly globalized environment, the Internet is our face to the world and how people find out about the AME Church.
Out of 20 Episcopal Districts and the Office of Urban and Ecumenical Affairs, only 14 Districts and Office of Urban and Ecumenical Affairs have websites; of these 15 websites, only 9 have an AME mission statement; and of these 9 websites, only 1 website has the correct mission statement. The AME District Websites with mission statements continue to use the document from previous editions of The Discipline.
This situation is especially troubling given the revised Mission Statement was one of the few pieces of legislation generated by the Strategic Planning Process to be approved by the General Conference. In other words, the AME Church spent over $300,000 on a process and we do not even use the materials which were generated from it.
Part 2a: International Implementation Challenges
To begin this discussion, let’s look at the AME presence in outside of the United States. I have selected a cross-section of countries ranging from Haiti (our oldest mission field) to the Democratic Republic of the Congo (a recently reestablished work). The following statistics are have been compiled from the 2010 CIA Factbook and the most recent numbers presented by the Bishop presiding over that country.
AME Presence in selected countries:
Haiti: 9,648,924 residents with 1,500 AMEs (>.001% of the population)
Liberia: 3,685,076 residents with 28,000 AMEs (.75% of the population)
Nigeria: 152,217,341 residents with 2,000 AMEs (>.001% of the population)
Swaziland: 1,354,051 residents with 2,100 AMEs (.16% of the population)
Democratic Republic of the Congo: 70,916,439 residents with 120,000 AMEs (.17% of the population)
United States: 310,232,863 residents with 2,500,000 AMEs (.8% of the population)
(Note: According to the 2007 Pew Religious Landscape study, there are approximately 1.4 million persons identifying as AMEs in the United States versus the 2.5 million number, which is reported by the denomination).
While African Methodism has always had fewer members compared to other historically Black faith traditions (e.g. Baptist and Pentecostal) within the United States, the numbers outside the United States should cause some concern given the time, money, energy and effort we have invested in international work.
How are we implementing our mission?
We can analyze our work outside of the United States by looking at the three points of the AME mission statement: spiritual, social and physical development.
Spiritual
Evangelism and Church Planting are our weakest international items. While we have been in some areas for over two centuries, most of our international numbers are flat. One of the causes for this is that we have no funding or strategy for church planting or evangelism outside of the United States.
In the summer of 2009, I lived in Bahia, Brazil in order to study Portuguese.
Most Sundays I attended the Methodist Church, but one Sunday I decided to visit one of the local Church of God in Christ (COGIC) congregations. I was stunned when one of the ladies greeted me in flawless English. I then looked around the room and saw the prominently displayed pictures of the jurisdictional Bishop and Women’s Supervisor as well as the COGIC Statement of Faith translated into Portuguese. After the service, I talked with the pastor and he told me that he was originally an independent preacher, but COGIC offered to buy him a building if he would work with them. And following that strategy, they have expanded to over 40 churches throughout the country with tens of thousands of members. Contrast this situation to the situation in Mozambique, where we have had a presence for over 70 years, but are just now beginning to build our second church building thanks to a project begun by Bishop Sarah Davis and continued by Bishop Earl McCloud, Jr.
The AME Church does not invest in systematic church planting outside of the United States and our numbers show it.
Social
There are primary and secondary schools affiliated with the AME Church throughout the world. Most of these schools, however, do not receive assistance from the Connectional Church. They are forced to rely on local funds and whatever money the Bishop of the District allocates from their Overseas Development Fund and can raise independently. There is no Connectional program put in place to take care of these schools and they do not see consistent support from the Connectional Church. This lack of consistent funding hinders our educational efforts and hurts our image with respect to similar institutions funded by other Protestant denominations.
With regards to political activism and social change, the AME Church has always had a disproportionate impact around the world relative to our numbers. In many countries, our Bishops have made it a point to meet with heads of state and government in order to make sure that the AME voice is heard. Also, our members continue to understand our mission and implement our social gospel through a variety of venues. For example, the late Mother Bertha Gxowa of the 19th Episcopal District served as a key member of the South African Parliament. I had the opportunity to chat with her in a visit to Johannesburg and she expressed her regret that more pastors did not understand how the government could aid in our mission for social justice and development.
Physical
In 1977, the AME Church created the AME Service and Development Agency (SADA) to help execute our social development goals. In the same way that Catholic Relief Services and Lutheran Relief Services were professional development arms of their denominations, it was hoped that AME-SADA would become the professional relief/development agency of the AME Church. While AME-SADA still exists, it has neither lived up to its full potential nor been fully utilized. At times, certain Episcopal administrations have chosen to work around AME-SADA instead of using it to implement development projects outside of the United States. While we do have clinics and economic development projects in various Districts, there is no coordination from the Connectional Church.
Are we being effective?
The effectiveness of the AME Church work outside of the United States is diminished by four challenges.
First, there is a lack of planning and “participatory development.” Instead of creating a firm plan for work which is mutually agreed to by local members and Bishops, an expectation exists that Bishops will dictate the work of an international area for their tenure. While Bishops are tasked with superintending the work, it is unfair to expect a person who may have never heard of a country to have the capacity and understanding to maintain and much less advance the evangelistic and social gospel priorities of an area.
The AME Church also inefficiently allocates resources towards international work. While a great deal of money and time is invested into areas outside the United States, many times our attempts to “work” with persons turn into overpriced tourist jaunts. During “mission trips,” more time is spent in the hotel than with the local AMEs. During my time as a Sojourner in the Dominican Republic, I was repeatedly asked by the Dominicans why AMEs did not want to relate with the locals while other denominations were actively engaged with the local population during their mission trips. I did not have any easy answers. Recent mission trips by the 4th District (Dominican Republic) and 13th District (Jamaica) incorporated intensive engagement and interchange with local AMEs. It is hoped that they mark a paradigm shift in how United States AME Church members conduct work outside of the United States.
The lack of useful and relevant materials in languages other than English continues to be an Achilles’ heel for the work of the AME Church. When I worked in the Dominican Republic as a Sojourner, I was shocked by the fact that the AME Church had not sent documents in Spanish. I later learned that documents had been sent, but they had not been properly introduced and as a result the Dominicans were not using them. The failure to translate our materials not only poses doctrinal concerns, but also lost revenue. Our members of the United States do purchase volumes of material for their Church Schools and other endeavors. Thousands of dollars yearly are lost by the AME Church Publishing House because we do not have a system in place for providing translated materials.
The absence of consistent engagement with the Connectional Church for areas outside of the United States is also a concern. The presence of the “Connection” in many instances has atrophied to an Annual visit by a Bishop or a quadrennial visit to the United States for a big meeting. As the Young Adult Representative of the Connectional Lay Organization, I travelled to the 15th Episcopal District Convention in Angola. The sense of abandonment held by AMEs outside of the United States continues to be an impediment to the work of the Connectional Church.
The Connectional AME Church must ask itself:
What is the AME vision concerning global work?
What type of Connection do we want?
What role should the United States Church play?
What is “indigenous leadership”?
Part 2b. Domestic Implementation challenges
How are we implementing our mission in our local areas? The following is a list of various actions under the three points of the AME Church mission statement.
-Spiritual
-Evangelism
-Theological advancement
-Church planting
-Healthy church growth
-Social
-Education
-Political activism
-Ecumenical involvement
-Physical
-Economic development (i.e. credit unions, job training programs)
-Affordable Housing
-Senior citizen programs
There are churches throughout the Connection that have implemented successful strategies execute these initiatives. Local AME Churches are actively engaged in promoting our mission.
As we scale up the Connectional ladder, however, seeing tangible implementation of the AME mission becomes more difficult. A disconnect exists between the local reality and the Connectional image. I have heard of AME Churches with cutting-edge programs and dynamic services not being viewed as a “real” AME Churches because they are not traditional or because the local membership does not participate in denominational politics and governance.
The Connectional Church must ask itself:
What does it mean to be an AME?
What does it mean to be an AME Church?
If we are not careful, we will allow “AME” to be defined as how many meetings one attends or how many General Conferences one goes to and not how one embodies Christianity through the legacy of Richard Allen.
Part 2c. Young Adults
The following demographics come from the 2007 Pew Religious Landscape Survey and the 2010 Pew Religious Center Millennial Study:
Members ages 18-29 compose 24% of Historically Black denominations versus 14% of mainline denominations. Members ages 30-49 compose 36% of Historically Black denominations versus 36% of Mainline denominations. Members ages 40-64 compose 24% of Historically Black denominations versus 28% of Mainline denominations. Lastly, members ages 65 and over are 15% of Historically Black denominations versus 24% of Mainline Denominations.
Additionally, 55% of Young Adults in Historically Black Denominations attend worship service weekly.
The aforementioned data show that the conventional wisdom regarding Young Adults is incorrect insofar as it concerns historically Black denominations. Young Adults DO continue to actively participate in the physical and spiritual life of congregations. The question is not whether Young Adults are in church, but in whose church are they? As AMEs, we must ask ourselves:
What do we offer younger members?
Whom do we serve?
The aging demographics of the Women’s Missionary Society and the Connectional Lay Organization are proof that Young Adults feel neither engaged nor serviced by the groups and consequently have chosen not engage in them. Conversely, these Connectional organizations have become bastions for a senior age demographic instead of intergenerational service organizations.
Across the Connection, we see oases of vibrant Young Adult participation, but the AME Church as a whole continues to struggle with being relevant younger generations of mission-driven and goals oriented persons.
Part 3. Summary
Absence of a Connectional strategy impedes implementation of the AME mission.
Moving forward, the AME Church must develop an action plan considering the following steps:
• Clearly articulate and publicize the AME mission, purpose, vision and goals
• Create a feasible plan to implement these goals at all levels in all Episcopal Districts
• Develop a vision for AME work outside of the United States, and;
• Evaluate our ministries and opportunities for Young Adults at all levels of the Connectional Church.
John Thomas III is a member of St. John AME Church (Nashville, TN). He serves as the Young Adult Representative of the Connectional Lay Organization and a member of the General Board. Currently, John is a Ph.D. Student in Political Science at the University of Chicago
16. UPDATE ON PAUL QUINN COLLEGE – “MICHAEL SORRELL: REALITY REDEFINES PERCEPTION AT PAUL QUINN”:
Perception defining reality is one of the great ironies of life. Some of our most commonly held "truths" are, at the end of the day, nothing more than a combination of emotion, hearsay and momentum. Yet, these perceptions can be far more difficult to dislodge than the actual truth. Once people begin accepting a mistaken or outdated belief as fact, it can take years to correct such a misperception.
This is the dilemma facing Paul Quinn College. By now, everyone knows the story of the school. Twenty years ago, under the leadership of Dr. Warren Morgan and in the search for greener pastures, the institution relocated to Dallas from Waco. Its arrival was met with great fanfare and solid community support. However, in fewer than 10 years, the bloom was off the rose, and the relationship between Dallas and the college became frayed. In fact, many corners of the city began preparing for what they viewed as the school's inevitable demise.
However, a funny thing happened along the way – the board of trustees, students, staff, alumni and donors, in addition to the AME Church, refused to allow the school to be buried.
While it would be difficult to debate that for most of the last 20 years Paul Quinn has struggled, it would be equally indisputable that over the last four, the college has turned the corner and begun transforming itself into something special. In the last 18 months alone, the Paul Quinn family has:
• Produced almost $2 million in budget surpluses in fiscal 2009 and 2010.
• Achieved unqualified audits for 2009 and 2010.
• Invested more than $2 million in infrastructure improvements without adding any debt.
• Formed a groundbreaking partnership with PepsiCo that converted the unused football stadium into a fully operational urban farm and has the potential to transform the way affordable, nutritious food is delivered to under-resourced communities around the country.
• Received a seven-figure gift from visionary philanthropist Trammell S. Crow.
• Was nominated "Historically Black College and University of the Year" by HBCU Digest.
• Increased enrollment by 75 students from spring 2010 to fall 2010.
• Maintained accreditation with one accrediting body, while earning candidacy status with another.
• Established institutional fundraising records.
• Launched an aggressive retention/student development program (the "Leave No Quinnite Behind Project") aimed at remedying the nationwide dropout epidemic for black college students.
• Overhauled the core curriculum to include a yearlong social entrepreneurship course, rigorous writing requirements and an emphasis on personal finance and business.
• Begun razing 14 abandoned buildings, some of which have stood idle on the campus for more than 20 years.
These facts paint the real picture of Paul Quinn College. There is a renaissance afoot, and it is exciting to behold. No longer are we prisoners to negative experiences and missteps that occurred 10 to 15 years ago. We have closed that chapter of our history. Today, we celebrate a new truth, a new perception and a new reality. The work being done by the Paul Quinn family is critically important not only to Dallas, but also to under-resourced communities across the country. We are developing a model for others to embrace and replicate.
Each member of the Paul Quinn family acknowledges that we still have work to do to become one of America's great small colleges. Somewhere in the Paul Quinn experience is the following advice and an offer for those who cling desperately and rigidly to outdated perceptions and allow those perceptions to define their realities: Stop living in the past. If you will start seeing us for who we are today, we promise to do the same for you.
Michael J. Sorrell is president of Paul Quinn College. His email address is msorrell@pqc.edu.
Bishop Gregory G.M. Ingram is the Presiding Prelate of the 10th Episcopal District (Texas) and is the Chairman of the PQC Board of Trustees
The Dallas Morning News (December 230, 2010) - http://www.dallasnews.com/sharedcontent/dws/dn/opinion/northsouth/viewpoints/stories/DN-sorrell_29edi.State.Edition1.4272f84.html
17. WE HAVE THE “TOOLBOX,” NOW LET’S OPEN IT:
In order to build something you must have the proper tools to do the job.
Sometimes substitutes can be used to build but it will not allow the builder to have adequate results. In fact as growing up in urban America I recall my Daddy using a butter knife on more than one occasion to assemble a gadget and/or to tighten up a loose screw on an object. At a short time later, the screw found its way out of the jointed boards of the object or piece of furniture.
This brings me to my point of about the toolbox in the African Methodist Episcopal Church.
One of the most valuable tools we have in our AME Church is the Class Leader System. Over the years, the Class Leader System has been abused, misused and simply ignored for its original purpose in the AME Church. In some cases, the only time we hear from the Class Leader in the local church is for collecting money due to a cash shortfall or someone has died and we need a dish for the dinner to feed the family of the deceased person. By no means, is this observation intended to offend anyone, but the facts are the facts. As believers we must open the toolbox and use this valuable tool to win souls for Christ and mentor and nurture our church members to grow and mature to become spiritually fit for kingdom building. In a way the Class Leader is a spiritual leader whose calling is to provide care, compassion, concern and is resourceful to its class member. The Bible states in Ephesians Chapter 6 verse 18, “Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto will all perseverance and supplication for all saints.” Ultimately, this ministry helps strengthen the local church.
We hear many times that others from other faith groups are using the Class Leader System by renaming it and are doing well in growing large congregations but we, AMEs, are steadily sliding down a hill of uncertainty in some regions.
However, the answer is the Class Leader System, a tool that was given to us many years ago.
The Class Leader System can be revamped and used as a tool to grow our churches numerically and spiritually, and as a tool to draw-in the unchurched and unsaved.
According to some notable authors in the field of church growth, the AME Church growth is not experiencing an increase in membership.
Pastors and local church leaders must have a vision to grow the church, whether in rural or urban areas.
Being a class leader should be “a calling” that motivates commitment; it’s a needed ministry in the church. When the Pastor appoints the class leader there should be a discernment of the Spirit to select persons who God has called. And pastors should listen to the whispers of God when selecting class leaders.
Here are some ways pastors can begin to revamp the AME class leader system.
1) Meet monthly with an agenda, devotion and a lesson, no more than one hour.
2) Have a current list of church inactive and active church members.
3) Contact class members by phone, “snail mail” and/or email frequently; in other words, let the class member know his or her church is thinking about them.
4) When contact is made, don’t gossip; keep communication on a spiritual level and note concerns of the class members; communicate concerns with the Pastor.
5) Follow-up with any concerns within 24 to 48 hours; waiting until Sunday may be too late.
6) Follow The Doctrine of Discipline of the African Methodist Episcopal Church, and task the stewards, with the Pastor’s approval, to draft a letter to the inactive church members during the Third Quarter.
7) Have a quarterly fellowship with the class members and class leaders.
8) Do a community project, i.e., donate backpacks to a school, serve a meal at the soup kitchen, study the word of God together; adopt something, e.g., a highway, family, neighborhood, street, school, or church department, and work it!
As believers of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, let us open up the toolbox and begin to use the tools of the Class Leader System to begin to make a difference in the local and global community of the African Methodist Episcopal Church.
Furthermore, the early church began with small groups. The AME Church, i.e. the Free African Society, also started with small groups. Since 1787, the AME Church has become one of the most recognized black denominations in the faith community. The African Methodist Episcopal Church has been on the forefront for the social justice and continues to work diligently in eradicating injustice.
The toolbox of the Class Leader System has been carried around in the hands of our fore parents from generation to generation.
Now it’s time to open the toolbox and grab the “tools” to make our Zion even better. We must help strengthen the “nuts and bolts” of our faith joints to be able to witness to a world that is looking for hope.
The Reverend Eraina M. Ross-Aseme, B.A., M. Div
Pastor of St. Mark’s African Methodist Episcopal Church
801 N.W. Harrison St.
Topeka, Kansas 66608
www.stmarkstopeka.com
785-232-0709 Church phone
18. OF CHITLINS AND CHURCH FOLK:
The Rev. Dr. Larry Delano Coleman
I am not ashamed of the gospel of Jesus Christ (Rom. 1:16, Mark 8:38).
Neither am I ashamed of being an Itinerant Elder in the African Methodist Episcopal Church.
Nor am I ashamed of “chitlins”— or, more formally, chitterlings, a/k/a, “wrinkles”—hog intestines, which have been thoroughly cleaned, thoroughly seasoned, and thoroughly cooked.
This soul food delicacy has its roots in our southern slave heritage, when our inventive women found a way to feed us from what white folks threw away. If it wasn’t “high on the hog,” they’d give it to us. And we’d take full advantage of it! http://whatscookingamerica.net/History/ChitlinsHistory.htm
Now, admittedly, there probably are some so-called Christians who shrink from boldly confessing Christ as Lord and Savior. There may be a few AME preachers who’d prefer keeping their affiliation quiet, i.e. “on the down low.” There certainly are a profusion of both so-called Christians and AME preachers who dislike and/or are downright disdainful of “chitlins.” Be that as it may.
This article is not for them. It is only for those who can receive it, the few, the faithful, the unfettered, i.e.—those who love Jesus, the AME church and chitlins.
Every Wednesday night, weather permitting, I engaged in Bible study at Gilbert Memorial A.M.E. Church, in Kansas City Missouri, the Rev. Brenda Smith, pastor.
Then, I had a stroke in July 2010, which hospitalized me for nearly 3 months. Nevertheless, during my hospitalization and rehabilitation, Rev. Smith and her prayer warriors would call me on my cellphone and pray and read from the scriptures to me throughout the period of my convalescence.
Well, I was discharged home in October, still too weak to work, but able to matriculate, slowly, on a cane. Rev. Smith and her prayer band continued to call.
Finally, the holidays were upon us: first, Thanksgiving; now, Christmas.
The next time Wednesday rolled around, and Rev. Smith and others called to pray; I let them have it with both barrels.
“Prayer is good, Reverend,” I said. “It changes things. And I really do appreciate you all calling me so faithfully for Bible study. But, that’s all talk.
And that’s all too many Christians want to do is talk! In 1 John 3, the Bible condemns folks who have the world’s goods, who see their brother has needs, and who don’t do nothing about it, but talk. That lady at your church that sells them dinners on Fridays, have her to call me. I want some chitlins.”
“Is that what you want, Reverend?” Rev. Smith asked me. “We can take care of that. We’ve been intending to come by and see you, anyway, since you came home. This gives us that opportunity!”
My heart jumped for joy! My loving wife, though almost perfect in other respects, doesn’t like chitlins at all. So, I had no chitlins coming from her. But, the Lord had made a way! I told everybody I knew about this: my siblings, my uncle, and my friends. And, now, Dear Reader, I’m telling you! God is able to put chitlins on the table!
When the next Wednesday came back around, Rev. Brenda Smith and her Chief Steward, Donna Randolph, came over to our home for Bible study, and brought dinner with them. They brought chitlins, collard greens, candied yams, macaroni and cheese, corn bread, and meat loaf, all exquisitely prepared and presented. We feasted.
We studied. We praised the Lord!
Nothing like chitlins and church folk, in Jesus’ Holy Name!
19. CONGRESSIONAL BLACK CAUCUS CHAIRMAN-ELECT EMANUEL CLEAVER ANNOUNCES KEY STAFF APPOINTMENTS:
Ms. Stephanie L. Young
Washington, DC - Congressional Black Caucus Chairman-Elect Emanuel Cleaver today announced three talented emerging leaders to key positions within the CBC: Executive Director, Policy Director, and Communications Director.
Angela Rye, who currently serves as Senior Advisor and Counsel to the House Committee on Homeland Security has been named Executive Director and General Counsel. "It is important that we have strong, innovative, and thoughtful leadership which we have found in Angela Rye," said Chairman-Elect Cleaver. "Through her political, legal, and nonprofit background, I believe the wealth of knowledge Angela brings to the table is immeasurable and exactly what the Congressional Black Caucus needs for the challenges and triumphs we will face during the 112th Congress. I am certain that Angela and our team will provide the necessary direction and support for our ambitious agenda" added the Chairman-Elect.
Under the leadership of Chairman Bennie G. Thompson for the Committee on Homeland Security, Angela is charged with developing the legislative and outreach strategy for the Committee with a focus on assisting disenfranchised, small minority owned businesses. Prior to her committee work, Angela worked for the National Association for Equal Opportunity in Higher Education (NAFEO) as the Coordinator of Advocacy and Legislative Affairs. In addition, Angela is a co-founder of IMPACT, a nonprofit organization, whose mission is to enhance knowledge of the political and legislative processes; foster civic engagement; and enhance economic empowerment opportunities for other emerging leaders of color, ages 21 to 40.
"It is an honor to work with Chairman-Elect Cleaver and the Members of the Congressional Black Caucus during the 40th Anniversary of the Caucus," Angela Rye explained. "I am eager to continue building on the legacy of those who have come before me and look forward to working for and with our outstanding Members of this great body." Rye added.
Angela is a graduate of Seattle University School of Law and currently serves as the Vice Chair of the Young Lawyers Division for the National Bar Association.
E. Brandon Garrett has been named Policy Director and will be responsible for overseeing the legislative priorities and policy agenda for the Congressional Black Caucus. Working closely with the Members and their staff, Brandon will ensure that the Caucus continues the work of ending disparities and continues to create opportunities for all Americans. Brandon Garrett is currently the Legislative Director for Congresswoman Marcia Fudge. Prior to serving as Legislative Director, Brandon served as Legislative Assistant and Policy Advisor to Congressman William Jefferson.
Stephanie L. Young has been named Communications Director. Prior to joining the Congressional Black Caucus, Stephanie served as Press Secretary for Congressman Steve Cohen's re-election campaign and Deputy Press Secretary for the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee. In addition, Stephanie worked to register over 2 million voters for the 2008 Presidential Election as the Communications Associate with Rock the Vote.
Jackie DuPont Walker
Article printed with permission
20. LAY NIGHT AT THE CONFERENCE:
November 2, 2010
The Lay Night worship service of the North Ohio Conference began with the processional of Lay members and Clergy.
The call to worship was given by the North Ohio Conference Director of Lay Activities, Mrs. Carol McGraw-Lashley; the Hymn of Praise was lined by North Ohio Conference Treasurer, Mrs. Leona Butler; the invocation was given by Mrs. Emily G. Johnson; and the scripture, Ephesians 6:1-11, 18, was read by Mr. Garland Stallworth.
Worship in song and praise by the North Ohio Conference Group. A solo was sung by Ms. Eva Blount in her impressive style. Violinist Gerald Harris played a very moving solo, “His eye in on the Sparrow.”
Mrs. Shirley LeCompte presented the education scholarship awards and Mrs. Emily Johnson made a special presentation to Episcopal Supervisor Ernestine Henning.
North Ohio Conference President Mrs. Jimmie L. Jackson made a special presentation to Lay members leaving their current positions in the conference: Mrs. Lisa Martin, Kenneth B. Lester, Mrs. Norma Tanner, and Mrs. Carol McGraw-Lashley.
Lay conference President Mrs. Jimmie Jackson introduced 3rd District Lay President Ms. Ametta Reaves. The Third District President Ametta Reaves introduced Presiding Bishop C. Garnett Henning.
Bishop Henning introduced the speaker, the Rev. William Watley, Ph D.
The Rev. Watley is the beloved Senior Pastor of the historic St. James African Methodist Episcopal Church in Newark, New Jersey. He is a dynamic speaker, a leader, mentor, and educator. The Rev. Dr. Watley spoke to us about Financial Freedom, using scriptures—Acts 3:1-10, 4:22, John 5:1-5. He used as his sermon points: “Opportunity, Speculation, Name, and a Hand. He was awesome as he tied each topic together. And, if that were not enough, at the end of his message, Dr. Watley had us to break into small groups, approximately six persons to a group. One person in the group prayed after everyone said their name out loud and stated their most important problem.
Dr. Watley’s interactive sermon was truly an amazing spiritual experience.
The Invitation to Christian Discipleship was extended, the offering lifted, and the benediction was given.
The third Episcopal Lay Night was an awesome experience.
Submitted by the Rev. Steven Jackson
21. THE 14TH EPISCOPAL DISTRICT 2011 ANNUAL CONFERENCE SCHEDULE:
Bishop David R. Daniels, Presiding Prelate
Mrs. Irene Moifoi Daniels, Episcopal Supervisor
Cote D’Ivoire Annual Conference
February 3, 2011: W.M.S.: Annual Convention
February 4 – 6, 2011: Annual Conference
Host Church: Bryant AME Church, Vridi-Canal, Abidjan, Cote D’Ivoire, West Africa
Host Pastor: The Rev. Kenneth Ansah
Host Presiding Elder: The Rev. Shadrach Adamptey
Nigeria Annual Conference
February 10, 2011: W.M.S.: Annual Convention
March 12 – 14, 2010: Annual Conference
Host Church: Christ Love AME Church, Ile – Ife, Osun State
Host Pastor: The Rev. Yemi Olanrewaju
Host Presiding Elder: The Rev. Margaret Fadehan
Ghana Annual Conference
February 16, 2011 W.M.S.: Annual Convention
February 17 – 20, 2011: Annual Conference
Episcopal Worship Center A.M.E. Church, Kumasi, Ghana, West Africa
Host Pastor: The Rev. Dr. Y. D. Fokuo
Host Presiding Elder: The Rev. G. K. Mensah
Global Development Council (GDC) Bi-Annual Meeting
February 22 - 25, 2011
Johannesburg, South Africa
Togo/Benin Annual Conference
March 3, 2011: W.M.S.: Annual Convention
March 4 – 6, 2011: Annual Conference
Host Church: Norris AME Church, Lome, Togo, West Africa
Host Pastor: The Rev. John Afawoubo
Host Presiding Elder: The Rev. Julien Segniagbeto
Sierra Leone Annual Conference
March 9, 2011 W.M.S.: Annual Convention
March 10 – 13, 2011: Annual Conference
Host Church: New Zion AME Church, Padamba Road, Freetown, Sierra Leone, West Africa
Host Pastor: The Rev. Ayodele A. A. Aitkins
Host Presiding Elder: The Rev. Isaac Showers
Central Liberia Annual Conference
March 14 – 15, 2011: W.M.S.: Annual Convention
March 16 – 20, 2011: Annual Conference
Host Church: First Bethel AME Church
Host Pastor: The Rev. Bendu Taylor
Host Presiding Elder: The Rev. Moore Kai-U-Way
Liberia Annual Conference
March 21 – 22, 2011: W.M.S.: Annual Convention
March 23 – 27, 2011: Annual Conference
Host Church: Jordan AME Church
Host District: Gbarnga District
Host Pastors: The Rev. Beatrice Menlor and Rev. Alvin Attah
Host Presiding Elder: The Rev. Beatrice Menlor and Gbarnga District Hosting at Eliza Turner Memorial AME Church
34 Camp Johnson Road
Monrovia, Liberia
22. U.S. REVIEW HITS TARGET ON POVERTY, FOOD SECURITY BUT MISSES NGO PARTNERSHIP ROLE, SAYS CHURCH WORLD SERVICE:
NEW YORK – International humanitarian agency Church World Service welcomes the release of the Quadrennial Diplomacy and Development Review, the Obama administration's comprehensive analysis of U.S. diplomacy and development work, as a necessary tool in global efforts to fight hunger and poverty.
But CWS also voiced concern over the review’s failure to reflect the vital role of non-governmental aid agencies as partners with the United States Agency for International Development (USAID).
"This milestone report, the first real look at U.S. diplomatic and development efforts in the last 50 years, provides a sharper focus for the U.S. government as it seeks to alleviate poverty and provide food security for the world's most vulnerable," said CWS Executive Director and CEO John L. McCullough.
"It is encouraging to see development being elevated as a key component of U.S. diplomatic efforts," McCullough said Dec. 16, following yesterday’s release of the review, which he said overall was positive.
Still, McCullough expressed CWS concern and disappointment about several issues, including the fact that the review fails to clarify the authority and accountability for the U.S. Global Climate Change Initiative.
But the key concern, McCullough said, is that the review does not sufficiently note the role of non-governmental organizations like Church World Service as full partners in global efforts to fight hunger and poverty – a point also raised by InterAction, the largest alliance of U.S.-based international humanitarian groups.
"Our concern is that, while the review recognizes the role of non-state actors like Church World Service and other InterAction members, it does not include them in the list of potential partners for alleviating hunger and poverty globally," McCullough said. As InterAction noted in its reaction to the report: "NGOs play a crucial role in building local capacity, leveraging billions of dollars in private resources, and should be seen as a potential strategic partner of the U.S. government."
Through its CROP Hunger Walks and other efforts, including grants and public donations, Church World Service raises tens of millions of dollars annually, support which has a demonstratively powerful impact on fighting global and domestic hunger and poverty.
“Given the Obama administration's new approach and commitment to development and diplomacy, we hope that the contributions of NGOs, whose work is supported by millions of Americans, will be recognized and that partnerships with groups like Church World Service are strengthened," McCullough said.
Another concern for CWS, McCullough said, is that the State Department's "ultimate control and budget power could mean that diplomatic and 'strategic' interests will too often take precedence over long-term poverty reduction. Not that this would be new, but a more independent USAID would help strengthen the focus on authentic and sustainable poverty reduction and self-reliance."
McCullough praised the review's emphasis on lifting up the role of women and girls as participants in development programs. However, he added that a needed priority for all development and humanitarian work that was not specifically mentioned as a focus for the review is the importance of providing nutrition in the first 1,000 days – roughly the first three years – of a child's life. Ensuring food security as well as early nutrition is a bottom-line requirement for tomorrow’s generation, he said.
CWS praised the administration’s commitment to strengthen the United States Agency for International Development and to elevate its role as the lead U.S. government agency in promoting global development work. "It is also encouraging to see President Obama’s Global Hunger and Food Security Initiative, called Feed the Future, being based at USAID," said McCullough, noting that the moves will help empower USAID, making U.S. aid efforts more effective globally. "It is disappointing, though, that it might not be until 2012 that the Global Health Initiative will be based within USAID."
McCullough commended the review for its focus on global "best practices" that include "high-impact" development programs that have broad government and popular support in the countries where USAID works. McCullough also praised the review's wisdom that protection of refugees and other displaced people, as well as dissidents and marginalized people, should be a core effort of U.S. diplomacy.
CWS provides protection programs for displaced people globally and resettles refugees to the United States. Church World Service, with more than 60 years experience in disaster response and refugee resettlement, is a global humanitarian relief and development agency supported by Christian denominations in the United States. CWS is a member of the ACT Alliance.
Media Contacts
Lesley Crosson, (212) 870-2676, media@churchworldservice.org
Jan Dragin - 24/7 - (781) 925-1526, jdragin@gis.net
Church World Service
475 Riverside Drive
New York, NY 10115
(212) 870-2676
23. THE SPIRIT OF GIVING:
*The Rev. N.T. Pitts,
The other day as I was in a thinking mode, as I am most of the time, I thought about the various ways we can give since seem to always be in the “giving season” of Christmas, New Years, Valentine’s day, Mother’s day or “her” birthday.
Giving does not only deal with the spirit of giving, but also the spirit in giving. There is no doubt that, so to speak, that “men” are born for other “men.” There is no other source of help we can turn to on this planet other than turning to one another.
Giving is the key role in wholesome living. We are admonished to give of our talent, time and treasure.
We can give directions. We can give instructions. We can give warnings. We can give encouragement. We can give advice. We can also give of our service, not wanting to be paid for every little thing that we do.
Each of us has something to give and we should give and share the blessing that have come our way. We are not speaking only of the spirit of giving but the spirit in giving as well.
We are admonished to be cheerful givers and not give grudgingly nor of necessary. II Corinthians 9:7
It is more blessed to give than to receive. (Acts 20:35)
There are those who spend their time with their hands out rather than handing out. There are those who are takers rather than givers.
We are now entering the “giving” season. Some of us will spend time trying to decide should I or, should I not give anything to X and Y.
To the believer and follower of Christ Jesus, giving is not a seasonal activity or shall I say, should not be a seasonal activity. Giving should be a contagious activity for Christians. We should never wait until Christmas to show our love and care for one another. Most of us go through eleven months of a giving “drought” and then we try to fill the void in a couple of weeks.
There is a dark side to giving, and that is the motive.
If you give just to be seen by people; if you give expecting something in return; if you give to make someone jealous; if you give just to gain an advantage; if you give because you are forced to give; if you give just to make someone look bad; then only the recipients enjoy the blessing but your giving is in vain. We block our blessing by being stingy and selfish, and we wonder sometimes what is going on in our lives.
For the unselfish giver, giving is a one-way-street, but more often than we think giving finds itself “traveling on a boulevard” or “making a U-turn” or “driving into a Cul-de-sac.” You see, giving has ways of returning. Giving is a “boomerang.” Giving returns in ways we least expect or even recognize.
Giving is an investment not controlled by Wall Street and not determined by the Dow-Jones average.
True giving comes from the heart.
It makes me feel good to be in the position and attitude of giving.
A mother or a father, who has not seen or communicated with her or his children in eleven months, cannot possibly fill the void in their lives with a onetime seasonal gift.
So as we enter this “giving season” let us be reminded of our motive and spirit of our giving. By all means give, make someone happy and feel wanted.
Give without expecting. Above all don’t be a “seasonal” giver. Don’t live your life through a “seasonal drought.”
Thought for Today: It is not the price of the gift that counts it is the spirit of the giver
*The Rev. N.T. Pitts, Ptaegar@AOL.Com, Author, counselor, Humorist, Teacher, is a retired Itinerant Elder who lives Eatonville, Florida
24. CLERGY FAMILY CONGRATULATORY ANNOUNCEMENTS:
- Congratulations To Ms. Stephanie L. Young
Stephanie L. Young is the daughter of Bishop And Mrs. McKinley Young, Presiding Bishop and Episcopal Supervisor, Eleventh Episcopal District.
There was a time when an African Methodist was spokesperson for every significant cause, issue, or celebration. Now fast forward to the present when a number of AMEs are public servants and leaders in social justice and we are grateful for that network.
Today we have become aware that on our watch, African Methodism has another important voice who has accepted an appointment to speak out for the people. Our commitment to social action takes "on life" as African Methodist carry out their "calling" wherever they are."
We pledge our support to and offer congratulations to AME P.K., Stephanie L. Young.
Stephanie L. Young has been named Communications Director. Prior to joining the Congressional Black Caucus, Stephanie served as Press Secretary for Congressman Steve Cohen's re-election campaign and Deputy Press Secretary for the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee. In addition, Stephanie worked to register over 2 million voters for the 2008 Presidential Election as the Communications Associate with Rock the Vote.
- Congratulations to Mr. Keith Eric Mincey
Keith Eric Mincey, the son of Presiding Elder Ella M. Samuels, the Presiding Elder of the Augusta-Athens District in the Sixth Episcopal District, will graduate Saturday, December 18, 2010, with his Masters Degree in Information Systems with a Concentration in Biotechnology. Keith will be graduating from The University of San Francisco. He lives in Fremont, California. Keith is also the son of Mr. Wilber Mincey of Swainsboro, GA.
Congratulatory responses can be emailed to: pesmiley@yahoo.com
The Rev. Ella (Smiley) Samuels, Presiding Elder
Augusta (Georgia) Annual Conference
Augusta - Athens PE District
1047 Huntly Circle
Thomson, GA 30824
Phone: 706-597-0564 * Fax: 706-597-9702
- Congratulations To Mr. Brandan L. Davis
The University of South Carolina College of Arts and Sciences conferred upon Brandan L. Davis the degree of Bachelor of Arts in Religious Studies at the Fall Commencement Exercises held Monday, December 13, 2010 at 3:30 p.m. at the Colonial Life Arena.
Brandan is the proud son of the Rev. G. Bernard Davis and First Lady Barbara A. Davis, Elisha AME Church, Newberry, South Carolina. Brandan plans are to complete the Master of Divinity Degree.
25. EPISCOPAL FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
Charles Kendall, the oldest brother of the Rev. Jessica Kendall Ingram (supervisor 10th Episcopal District) died this morning in Atlanta, Georgia. He is the son of Samantha Kendall, a life-long member of Wayman AME Church in St. Louis, Missouri and the beloved brother-in-law of Bishop Gregory G.M. Ingram. His sister jean Kendall is a member of St. John AME Church in St. Louis, Missouri. The family solicits your prayers during this very difficult season.
Funeral arrangements are incomplete at this time.
The Rev. Jessica Kendall Ingram’s contact information:
Home: 214. 647.1984
Cell: 313.806.8180
P.O. Box 700997
Dallas, Texas 75370
Please do not send emails. Your calls and cards will be greatly appreciated.
The arrangements are as follows:
Carl M. Williams Funeral Home
492 Larkins St. SW
Atlanta, Georgia 30313
404.522.8454
Wake:
Friday, January 7, 2011
7-8:30 p.m.
Big Bethel A.M.E. Church
220 Auburn Avenue NE
Atlanta, Georgia 30303
Homegoing Service:
Saturday, January 8, 2011
10:30 a.m.
Big Bethel A.M.E. Church
220 Auburn Avenue NE
Atlanta, Georgia 30303
The Rev. Gregory Eason, Senior Pastor
The Rev. Dwight Andrews, Senior Pastor
First Congregational Church, Eulogist
Card and expressions may be mailed to:
The Rev. Dr. Jessica Kendall Ingram
PO Box 700997
Dallas, TX 75370
Home: 214.647.1984
Cell: 313.806.8180
26. EPISCOPAL FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
Mrs. Dorothy Robertson Martin passed on Tuesday, December 28, 2010 in Jenkinsville, SC. Mrs. Martin is the sister of Retired Supervisor Carrie Robertson Grady and sister-in-law of Bishop Z. L. Grady (Ret).
Husband: the Late Mr. Elijah Martin, Jr. Children: James Martin, Dorothy McDaniel, Joyce Norris, Bessie Jowers, Lucy Martin and Portia Quiller.
As a former WMS Conference Officer, Mrs. Martin's faithfulness and devotion enabled her to win the confidence and esteem of all. The ability and enthusiasm of her work will never be forgotten by those who came within the sphere of her work and influence.
The funeral has been held.
Expressions of Sympathy and Condolences may be sent to:
Bishop and Mrs. Z. L. Grady
1 Wespanee Drive
Charleston, SC 29407
Phone: (843) 766-9569
Fax: (843) 556-8659
Email: w1mg2cl@aol.com
27. EPISCOPAL FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
It is with profound sorrow that we announce the passing of Mr. Elijah Martin, Jr. of Jenkinsville, South Carolina. Mr. Martin is the brother-in-law of former Supervisor Carrie Robertson Grady and Bishop Z. L. Grady (Ret.). Mr. Martin was a devoted member of White Hall AME Church. He served in many capacities and was a dedicated and committed child of God.
Surviving: wife, Dorothy Robertson Martin; children: James Martin, Dorothy McDaniel, Joyce Norris, Bessie Jowers, Lucy Martin and Portia Quiller and siblings: Wendell Martin, Donnavia Thomas and Bessie Gregg.
Service arrangements for Mr. Elijah Martin, Jr.
Tuesday, December 21, 2010
The Lay-In-State/Viewing and funeral were held December 21 – 22, 2010.
Expressions of Sympathy and Condolences may be sent to:
Bishop and Mrs. Z. L. Grady
1 Wespanee Drive
Charleston, SC 29407
Phone: (843) 766-9569
Fax: (843) 556-8659
28. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
We regret to announce the death of the Rev. Samuel Gaisie, Presiding Elder of the Cote D'IVoire Annual Conference of the Fourteenth Episcopal District. Presiding Elder Samuel Gaisie died on December 3, 2010.
The funeral service for the Rev. Gaisie was held on December 22, 2010.
Expressions of sympathy may emailed to the Gaisie family via Bishop David R. Daniels, Jr.
Email: rwysayma@aol.com
Bishop David R. Daniels, Jr. & Supervisor Irene M. Daniels
Fourteenth Episcopal District
rwysayma@aol.com & moifoi1@aol.com
US cell: 803-466-7130
29. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
We regret to announce the passing of Sister Mary Goodman, the mother of the Reverend Michael K. Keene, the pastor of Trinity AMEC, Bridgeton, New Jersey (New Jersey Conference, Atlantic City District). The following information has been provided regarding funeral arrangements.
Viewing and Funeral, Friday, January 7, 2011
Viewing - 9:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.
Funeral - 11:00 a.m.
Fellowship Christian Church
6101 W. Oxford Street
Philadelphia, PA 19151
Phone: 215-877-4024
The Rev. Jerome Goodson, Interim Pastor
Expressions of Sympathy may be sent to:
The Rev. Michael K. Keene
133 King Avenue
Woodbury Heights, NJ 08097
Fax: 856-468-0816
30. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
We regret to announce the passing of Mrs. Stella Bishop, mother of Rev. Anita Forde, local deacon of Solomon Temple AME Church, Wallerfield, Trinidad and Tobago.
The funeral service of Mrs. Bishop was held at the Holy Saviour Anglican Church, Curepe on Friday December 17 at 10:00 a.m.
Expressions of sympathy may be sent to Rev. Anita Forde at: afordetrin@yahoo.com
31. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
With heartfelt sorrow we share the passing of Mr. Gregory L. Mason, the son-in-law of Licentiate Sherry Green, who serves as Supply Pastor at Craig Chapel AME Church in Salvisa, KY. Brother Mason fought a good fight at a young age, and we rejoice in knowing he will suffer no longer.
The funeral has been held.
Family Contact:
Brother William and Licentiate Sherry Green
406 Woodridge Drive
Lancaster, KY 40444
Telephone: 859-621-3728
Email is: SHAREIKA_2000@yahoo.com
32. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
We are saddened to announce the passing of Mrs. Rosie Virginia Daughtry, the mother of the Rev. L. R. Daughtry, pastor of Campbell's Chapel AME Church in Carrollton, Virginia. Mrs. Daughtry passed on January 1, 2011.
The following arrangements have been made for the Homegoing Celebration of Mrs. Rosie Virginia Daughtry:
Homegoing Service:
Thursday, January 6, 2011
1:00 p.m.
Union Baptist Church
Virginia Beach, Virginia
Pretlow and Sons Funeral Home is handling the arrangements.
Pretlow & Sons Funeral Home
500 Liberty Street
Chesapeake, Virginia 23324
Phone: (757) 543-9343
Condolences may be sent to:
The Rev. L. R. Daughtry
3817 Windsor Woods Blvd.
Virginia Beach, VA 23452
Or
via email at: p_bart1@altell.blackberry.com
Online Guest Book: http://www.pretlowandsons.com/index.cfm
33. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
We regret to inform you of the death of Mrs. Helen Grace Lambert on Wednesday, December 29, 2010 at The Lefroy House Nursing Home in Somerset, Bermuda. Mrs. Lambert was a stalwart member of Allen Temple AME Church in Somerset, Bermuda for more than 65 years. Mrs. Lambert was married to the late Brother Reuben Lambert, a well-known lay leader in the African Methodist Episcopal Church, and former President of the First Episcopal District Lay Organization for many years. Mrs. Lambert is the mother of the Reverend Althea Hayward and the mother-in-law of the Reverend Samuel E. Hayward III, pastor of Hemingway Memorial AME Church, and grandmother of the Reverend Kristina and Ms. Kimberly Hayward. The family desires your prayers.
Viewing:
Wednesday, January 5, 2011 from 7:30 pm - 9:00 pm
Amis Funeral Home
8 Khyber Pass
Warwick, Bermuda WK 03
Tel: (441) 236-0155
Fax: (441) 236-4845
Homegoing Celebration for Mrs. Helen Grace Lambert:
11:00 a.m., Thursday, January 6, 2011 at:
Allen Temple A.M.E. Church
Sound View Road
Somerset, Bermuda
Phone: (441) 234-0433
The Reverend Howard Dill, Pastor
The Reverend Gail Dill, Assistant Pastor
In lieu of Flowers, donations may be given to:
The Reuben H. Lambert Scholarship Fund
c/o Allen Temple A.M.E. Church
Sound View Road
Somerset, Bermuda
(441) 234-0433
Any cards or condolences may be sent to the Hayward family at:
15210 Derbyshire Way
Accokeek, Maryland 20607
Tel: (301) 292-7780
Email: graceschild@hotmail.com or krhayward@hotmail.com
34. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
We regret to announce the passing of the Reverend Cecil Bonds, the pastor of Mt. Zion AME Church in Riverton, New Jersey. He passed on December 21, 2010 from a brain aneurysm. The following information has been provided regarding funeral arrangements.
The funeral has been held.
Expressions of Sympathy may be sent to:
The Rev. Jean Bonds
17 Paris Lane
Avenel, NJ 07001
35. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
We regret to announce the passing of Brother Jerome Felton, the son of the Rev. Lucille Wakefield-Moore, pastor of Bethel AMEC in Cookstown, New Jersey (New Jersey Conference, Camden/Trenton District). He passed on December 19, 2010.
The funeral has been held.
Expressions of Sympathy may be sent to:
The Rev. Lucille Wakefield-Moore
15 Moore Avenue
Lawnside, NJ 08045
36. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
We regret to announce the passing of Brother Robert Maurice Polk, Jr., the eldest brother of Sister Hazel Hare and brother-in law of the Rev. Carl V. Hare, pastor of Bethany AMEC, in Philadelphia, PA (Philadelphia Conference, Philadelphia District). He passed away on Tuesday, December 21, 2010 in Tampa, Florida. The following information has been provided regarding funeral arrangements.
The funeral has been held.
All resolutions may be Faxed to 401-546-0624.
Expressions of Sympathy may be sent to:
The Rev. Carl & Mrs. Hazel Hare
3082 S. Congress Road
Camden, NJ 08104-3104
37. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
We regret to share news of the passing of Mrs. Nettie Bailey, the mother of the Reverend Debra E. Williams, President of the 4th Episcopal District Women In Ministry and pastor of Robinson Chapel AMEC, Chicago, Illinois. Mrs. Nettie Bailey passed on Monday, December 20th.
The funeral has been held.
Expressions of sympathy and condolences may be sent to:
The Reverend Debra E. Williams
3319 W. Gladys Avenue
Chicago, Illinois 60624
Phone: (773) 533-5710
(773) 616-1069
Email: revdebbieamec@yahoo.com
38. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
We wish to inform you of the passing of Mrs. Beatrice Ida Tate Hill, the sister of Presiding Elder Percy Robert Tate, the Presiding Elder of the Youngstown District of the North Ohio Annual Conference and the sister in law of Mrs. Geraldine Tate, the Youngstown District Consultant and immediate past president of the Third District MSWAO plus PK's Organization.
The funeral has been held.
Cards and messages of condolence can be sent to the Tates at:
4593 Michigan Blvd
Youngstown, OH 44505
Telephone: 330/792-3720
E-mail: prtate@sbcglobal.net
39. 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
40. 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
