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 – AND NOW, THE OP-ED:
Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III
The 20th Editor of The Christian Recorder
The Christian Recorder is starting a new column and we need your help!
The Christian Recorder is growing and, with both the print and internet versions, is being read by more people. One does not need to type in the web address to access the online version of The Christian Recorder; simply type, “The Christian Recorder” in the browser and pages and pages of The Christian Recorder will be available.
We have had positive responses to the additions made in The Christian Recorder that include the column written by the Rev. N.T. Pitts; the “You Ask” column written by retired Bishop Richard Allen Chappelle; and the “Reader Response to Editorial and Other Issues.” And, now, we are getting ready to add another column.
We are pleased that readers are responding and we appreciate all of the positive comments. But, having said that, we didn’t get to this point alone; the staffs, upstairs and downstairs, at the AMEC Sunday School Union, under the leadership of Dr. Johnny Barbour are diligent and most capable. They are the unsung heroes and heroines who are responsible of putting the newspaper together and mailing out The Christian Recorder and the other AME periodicals. And, we probably don’t say it enough, but thanks are extended to all of my immediate predecessors, Dr. Robert Reid (18th Editor) and Dr. Ricky Spain, (19th Editor); they, and the previous editors paved the way to get us where we are today.
The evidence
If you have a key word, you can Google any article that has been published in The Christian Recorder, which indicates that TCR is moving “into the mainstream.” Growth precipitates change and we are looking at how we can make The Christian Recorder better.
The Rationale
On numerous occasions I have had readers come to me with comments about a particular editorial, and sometimes that person was in agreement with the position I had written and at other time a person has expressed disagreement.
One “hot-button” item has been my position on Itinerant Elders not accepting pastoral appointments. I have had several preachers who have come up to me to share why they are not in the pastoral ministry, and often their reasons seem valid. In each instance, I have invited the person to write an article to state his or her position, but I have noticed that they are hesitant at addressing, what they consider to be a sensitive issue. I believe we, AMEs, are sometimes critical of people who might question the AME-way of doing things or the AME-way of thinking.
I can understand their hesitancy, but I feel that we are at a point that we can share and read, with non-attribution, different view points on AME issues; or at least we should be at that point. And, if we are not at that point, we need to get to that point. Openness is a healthy attribute for any organization, and especially so for the Church.
The plan: op-ed articles
I would like to offer the opportunity for individuals to submit op-ed articles because sometimes we received letters to the editor that might be more appropriate as an op-ed article than as a letter to the editor. So, I would like to give people, who like to write, an opportunity to submit op-ed articles.
Op-ed articles appear in every major newspaper in the United States and probably overseas. Often, when I read The New York Times; the op-ed page is the first place I start. Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia explains that op-ed is abbreviated from “opposite the editorial page.” An op-ed article is a newspaper article that expresses the opinions of a writer identified by name who is usually unaffiliated with the newspaper's staff.
Some points to remember
Sources that address op-ed writing stress the importance of timely submission on “hot issues” and the importance of focusing on the issue and encourage op-ed writers to focus on a single point, and do it well. An op-ed article should be based on facts, research, or experience.
Op-ed writers are encouraged to use the active, rather than the passive voice, so instead of writing, "It is hoped that the AME Church will …,” instead, write, "I hope the AME Church will…" The active voice is easier to read, and it leaves no doubt about who is doing the hoping, recommending or other action.
Op-ed articles in The Christian Recorder should not make personal attacks and should avoid tiresome rebuttals and “tit for tat” arguments.
I believe effective op-ed articles will model openness that will be healthy for our Zion and will reflect positively on the AME Church.
Our Rules
If you do choose to submit an article, be sure to include your contact information; anonymous op-ed articles will not be published. Some articles may be rejected; if a submission is rejected, it is rejected.
We are off to a great start!
Our first op-ed article appears in today’s issue of The Christian Recorder Online and is written by Mrs. Loretta Moore, Esq. and is entitled, “Council of Bishops’ Statement Raised More Questions and Precipitated Rumors.”
Editor's Note: Editor Sydnor will be in Hilton Head Island next week and will also attend the WMS Executive Board Meeting in Charleston, South Carolina
2. READER RESPONSE TO EDITORIAL AND OTHER ISSUES:
- To the Editor:
RE: Article, Africa Must Define Herself, by the Rev Tulane Msibi in the January 6, 2011 issue of TCR Online
Again, Rev. Msibi provides thought provoking commentary on the situation of African Methodism on the African continent. I wish to make a clarification regarding the Rev. Msibi's statement concerning my response to his article on indigenous leadership.
In the article the Rev. Msibi writes: "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."
This is a misquote from a response made in the May 20, 2010 edition of "The Christian Recorder." My actual words were: "At the very core of the topic is the future of the Connection and our perspective of African Methodism. We are one body in Christ with different parts, but at times it seems as if some parts are more equal than others."
I want to make sure that if my words are to be used that they are proper in form and correct in context.
John Thomas III
3. OP-ED: COUNCIL OF BISHOPS’ STATEMENT RAISED MORE QUESTIONS AND PRECIPITATED RUMORS:
*Loretta Moore
I found the January 13, 2011 editorial of The Christian Recorder Online, In the Interim of the General Conference, “The Buck Stops” with the Council of Bishops, quite thought-provoking and I am trying to read between the lines.
Certainly it should be clearly-understood that The Christian Recorder, the Official Newspaper of the African Methodist Episcopal Church is the “official news voice” of the AME Church. A statement to that effect should be a standard byline in all of its publications. Similarly, there should be no issue with the authority of the Council of Bishops to make decisions in the interim of the General Conference; although a question remains in the minds of many AMEs as to who is the Church's official spokesperson.
In today’s fast-technological climate, the Church will be preoccupied with an uphill, never-ending battle in an attempt to restrain individual transmission of information via "tell an AME", telephone, telegraph or the myriad social networking systems enabled through the internet. People are free to choose to believe what they want to believe. I would respectfully suggest that the best way to quell the impact of false rumors is for the “many official arms” of the Church, including the Council of Bishops, to be as transparent and forthcoming as possible, without violating personal confidences. For example, a most recently issued statement from the Council of Bishops, released by The Christian Recorder Online on January 5, 2011, seemed to raise more questions than it answered. Thus, in such circumstances some people may be more prone to create and spread their own fallacious explanations. At the same time, others may seek explanations from any source when too many important questions are left unanswered.
Was it Ben Franklin who said, "Believe none of what you hear and half of what you see"? This adage has been around well before the advent of the internet but at least as long as the AME Church.
*Loretta Moore is a retired law professor, freelance writer and mediator. She is a member of Allen Chapel AME Church in Kansas City, Missouri.
4. “YOU ASK”:
Bishop Richard Allen Chappelle
I Ask:
Is it appropriate for someone who has not been ordained to robe-up? I know of three members of the church have professed their calling to the ministry: a teenager, a person over fifty years of age and a third person. They received licenses from presiding elder. Is it appropriate for them to wear robes?
Bishop Richard Allen Chappelle’s Response to the Question:
This is another of our "Catch Twenty-two" question.
There is nothing written in the The Book of Discipline of the African Methodist Episcopal Church 2008 connected to the practice of "Robe Up."
In Africa there is "the wearing of gowns."
From Biblical times the wearing of vestments were reserved for certain persons set apart for "priestly functions." The importance/significance of the vestments depended upon the rank of the individual, i.e. priest and high priest.
As far back as my entering the ministry, the bishops, presiding elders, and pastors held the wearing of robes to an extremely high standard. When I accepted the call to the AME Ministry in the early 60's I wasn't allowed to wear the clergy vestments of any type at any AME function. My Pastor informed me, after I was ordained an Itinerant Deacon, that I could wear a robe/gown in the local church. I had one of my father's robes, but the pastor advised me to remove the academic bars from the sleeves before I could even wear it. In conjunction with this, just for information purposes, I wasn't allowed to preach my "Trial Sermon" from the pulpit; I preached my “trial sermon” from down inside the chancel near the communion table.
Thus, in times past it was the tradition that vestments were reserved for those who had been ordained; as I would emphasize, "In Times Past."
There now seems to be different interpretations within the church and within certain regions of the denomination. Then there is another phenomenon that seems to be "catching on." Some pastors, general officers and bishops are refraining from wearing vestments even while performing priestly / preaching / ecclesiastical responsibilities.
There has always been a significant symbolic relationship between the "priestly class" and the wearing of vestments. The “who and when” of it has evolved over time, but it is my understanding that the wearing of robes / vestments is reserved to certain individuals after obtaining certain "credentials."
Unfortunately this may varies from episcopal district to episcopal district; from annual conference to annual conference; from presiding elder district to presiding elder district; from local church to local church until someone legislates what our connectional position shall be.
5. GET READY! GET READY! GET READY FOR FOUNDER’S DAY AND FOR THE RELEASE OF MOVIE, ‘RICHARD ALLEN, APOSTLE OF FREEDOM”:
Mrs. Leslie Tyler
Founder’s Day celebrations should be planned now.
The African Methodist Episcopal church is celebrating the 251st Birthday of the Founding Father of the African Methodist Episcopal Church.
Mother Bethel AME Church is providing resources for local AME Churches around the world and an excellent documentary film about Richard Allen will be released and it will be available on Sunday, February 13, 2011 at 12-midnight. Local congregations are encouraged to organize Richard Allen Watch Parties.
- Word search game and answers are attached to this message
- View the trailer of the Richard Allen film: http://www.motherbethel.org/allen/index.html
“Watch Party” Toolkit
How You Can Watch on Sunday February 13, 2011 starting at Midnight 12 a.m.
- Log onto www.MotherBethel.org
- Click on the “Church” page
- Click on the picture of Bishop Richard Allen in the upper right hand corner
- Press the play button and watch the film “on demand” (anytime you want)
How You Can Host Your “Watch Party” for the Bishop Richard Allen film
(Try these steps before February 13th to work out all technical difficulties)
- Bring a computer with internet access* into your fellowship hall or meeting place
- Hook your computer up to a big screen TV or power-point type projector
- Follow “How You Can Watch…” instructions above
- Play the video
- Invite local historians and have a panel discussion about Bishop Allen and the film
- Have activities for children (see attached sheets created on Edhelper.com)
- Serve refreshments – have a birthday cake with Bishop Allen’s picture (he would turn 251 on Monday February 14, 2011)
*High-speed internet access works best. If your facility is not “WI-FI” ready, you can hook some laptop computers up to cell phones to establish internet access in remote locations.
1). View a sample clip
2). Learn how to become a sponsor
3). Download instructions on "How to Watch" on February 13, 2011
4). Download "Watch Party" Toolkit with tips on how to host a viewing party at your church or home
5). Download activities for children that are based on Bishop Richard Allen's story
6). "Like" the new film on Bishop Allen on Facebook
http://www.motherbethel.org/allen/details.html
6. PRESIDENT OBAMA AND HIS FAMILY ATTENDED WORSHIP SERVICE AT METROPOLITAN AME CHURCH, THE “NATIONAL CATHEDRAL OF AFRICAN METHODISM”:
President Barack Obama and first lady Michelle Obama attended Sunday services at a Metropolitan AME Church in Washington, DC, where the pastor is the Rev. Dr. Ronald E. Braxton. Metropolitan AME Church is located near the White House. During the worship service, the congregation prayed for the people of Tucson, Arizona, where a gunman went on a shooting spree last weekend that killed six people and wounded 13 others, including Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords, an Arizona Democrat.
The congregation sang birthday wishes to the first lady, who turns 47-years old on Monday, January 17, 2011.
7. BISHOP ADAM JEFFERSON RICHARDSON REFLECTS ON THE VISIT OF PRESIDENT OBAMA AND HIS FAMILY TO METROPOLITAN AME CHURCH:
Bishop Adam Jefferson Richardson, the Presiding Prelate of the Second Episcopal District, shares his reflection on the presidential family’s visit to Metropolitan AME Church.
“The Obamas came to the pastor's office for a round of photographs and a respectful moment or two with each of us. They are gracious people. I was asked to pray in a circle of holding hands before exiting for the sanctuary. They seemed grateful and at home with the time of prayer. Pastor Braxton escorted them to their seats, along with the Supervisor.
The big Allen organ held forth. It was a glorious sound: ‘Lift Every Voice and Sing.’ The choir blessed our hearts. A thoughtful, but passionate, prayer was offered, the officers were as meticulous as the Secret Service, the people worshiped (including many in the balcony), the bishop greeted, the pastor preached, Rosa Parks and Martin Luther King, Jr. were given Honorable mention, along with Paul and Esther, and Jesus was exalted! Dr. Marie Braxton actually invited the Obamas to join Metropolitan, inviting the children to Sunday School and the youth orchestra, to be pastor to and girlfriends with Mrs Obama, and certain that they could ‘find something for the president to do.’
It was a glorious day. One little boy, however, upstaged everybody with his welcome address. At the conclusion of it, the President invited him over to shake his hand and to have his wife and children to shake his hand. The handshake and hug was a ‘brotherly’ thing that will not soon be forgotten. No other president could have offered a handshake and hug like that.
Among those in attendance at the service at Metropolitan, Washington was Bishop and Mrs. McKinley Young, Bishop and Mrs. David Daniels, and 2nd Episcopal District Supervisor Connie Richardson.”
8. THE “I HAVE A DREAM SPEECH” REVISITED:
*COL (Ret) James E. Williams, Jr., United States Army, MS, SPHR
Annually, prior to the Martin Luther King, Jr.(MLK) holiday week-end, I re-read his " I Have a Dream Speech" The speech reminds me of where we were in 1963 concerning race relations in the United States and where we must go to enable us to truly form a "more perfect union."
The speech was given on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial in Washington DC on August 28, 1963 - my birthday. On August 28 1963, I was commanding an Honest John Rocket Battery, a unit of the 3rd Armored Division. The battery called home - Fliegerhorst Kaserne, West Germany, however, we were on a mission in the Fulda Gap supporting the "Big Punch" contingency mission for the 3rd Armored Division. The division was commanded by General Creighton Abrams (one of General Patton's World War II (WWII) armored (tank) commanders). My battalion commander was LTC (Lieutenant Colonel) John W. Vessey, Jr., who had been a 1st sergeant in WWII, received a battlefield commission and retired from the Armed Forces as Chairman of the Joint Chief of Staff. I have been blessed that my early commissioned service was mentored by these outstanding military leaders.
I have always felt a sense of frustration that I was not in the United States during the turbulent early '60's to participate in the "freedom struggles," however, I believed then and continue to believe today that my military service and the service of other minorities provided credibility to those who fought for freedom at home while we fought for freedom overseas. How could you not grant all US citizens their God given right to freedom when many were willing to share their blood, sweat and tears to “support and defend the constitution of the United States against all enemies foreign and domestic”
Dr King truly understood that, if we were going to be true to the articles of the Constitution of the United States, we as a people had to accept, respect and protect all of its citizens.
Read the speech (see attachment) reflect on where we were as a nation concerning race relations in 1963, the tremendous improvements that have been made since then, but don’t forget the continual ugly face of racism that continues to plague all of us, black and white in many aspects of our daily lives.
I hope that all of you enjoyed the MLK holiday weekend.
**COL (Ret) James E. Williams, Jr. is a prostate cancer survivor diagnosed in 1991. He worked as a human resources director for 15 years after retiring from the Army. COL Williams is Board Chairman, Pennsylvania Prostate Cancer Coalition, Chair, Intercultural Cancer Council (ICC); a member Governor’s (Pennsylvania) Cancer Control, Prevention and Research Advisory Board. Jim has appeared on NBC's Weekend Today program and was featured in Good Housekeeping, Cure, Prevention, CR, MaleCall, The Voice and other magazines and newsletters speaking on the topic of prostate cancer prevention and treatment. Colonel Williams grew up in Bethel AME Church, Bryn Mawr, Pennsylvania
9. FOOTBALL PLAYOFFS DO NOT STEAL MEN AWAY FROM SONS OF ALLEN SERVICE:
By Angelena Spears
Philadelphia Conference Reporter
More than 100 men gathered at St. Paul AME Church in Philadelphia for the Sons of Allen Installation Service on Sunday, January 9, 2011. What was equally impressive – was that the district-wide service took place at almost the same time as a decisive Philadelphia Eagle Super Bowl playoff game.
The preacher for the event was Bishop Richard Franklin Norris, who commended the men of the South Philadelphia District for “breaking away from their tailgating and coming out of their man caves” – to attend the special service.
The district’s elder, the Rev. James E. F. Lawrence, also thanked the men for “putting God first.”
Although the church attempted to accommodate the men by having a large screen television mounted on the wall in the fellowship hall -- once the service began, all hearts and minds appeared to be engaged in the worship.
Bishop Norris preached passionately from I Timothy, and his theme was “The Place of Men in the Church.”
Bishop Norris talked about the importance of having strong Sons of Allen Organizations in local churches and said, unfortunately, in some congregations men are “as scarce as hen’s teeth.” He said he was pleased with the large turnout of men in the service. When he asked all of the men in the sanctuary to stand – it was well over 100, which included representatives from each of the district’s 17 churches, who had come to be installed as presidents of their local organizations.
Although Bishop Norris was quick to acknowledge how important women have always been to the sustenance of the church, he told the men that their involvement was essential to keep the church strong. He then summoned the men to be “saved,” and said there is nothing lacking in masculinity when you are saved.
“A saved man will have a testimony,” declared Bishop Norris.
At the end of the service, the bishop officiated at the installation of the officers' ceremony.
During the ceremony, Brother Gregory Seawell, of New Bethel AME Church, Germantown, was installed as the president of the district’s Sons of Allen, and the Rev. Eugene V. McDuffy, pastor of St. Paul AME Church, Philadelphia, was installed as the district’s chairman of the organization.
At the conclusion of the ceremony, Bishop Norris saluted the men.
10. DR. ROBERT BRUMFIELD’S 30TH YEAR IN PASTORAL MINISTRY AND 10TH PASTORAL ANNIVERSARY AT OAK GROVE:
Submitted by: Mrs. Jacqueline Lawson
Oak Grove African Methodist Episcopal Church recently celebrated Dr. Robert Brumfield’s 30th Year in Pastoral Ministry and 10th Pastoral Anniversary at Oak Grove. The occasion, co-chaired by Mrs. Margaret Hails and Mr. James Boyce, featured the celebratory theme “…A Righteous Man Will Be Remembered Forever” (Psalms 112:6 NIV), fitting for the Shepherd of the House.
The week-long festivities began with an elegant black-tie gala at the Marriott Hotel in Detroit. Oak Grove members, clergy, community leaders, family and friends of Dr. Brumfield celebrated with him and First Lady, Sharon Brumfield.
The Master of Ceremony, Delroy Lindo, star of stage, screen, and television served as the quintessential host. Mr. Lindo’s wit and style were the perfect catalyst for an engaging evening. Congratulatory proclamations and well- wishes were presented by a diverse cross section of the community: Bishop James Davis, 9th Episcopal District, AME Church, retired Bishop Frank C. Cummings; Congresswoman Carolyn Cheeks Kilpatrick, 13th Congressional District; the Rev. Greg Roberts, State of Michigan, Office of Faith Based and Neighborhood Partnerships; the Rev. Andre Spivey, Detroit City Council member and pastor of St. Paul A.M.E. Church, Detroit; and Michael D. Grundy, Executive Director, Wayne County Health Choice. Additionally, Pastor Brumfield was presented with an anniversary number 30 New Orleans Saints custom “who dat nation” jersey by his adoring daughter Janine Brumfield.
The celebration continued with a three-night revival with some of the most dynamic preachers in the city of Detroit. Bishop Edgar L. Vann, pastor, Second Ebenezer Church, Detroit; the Rev. Dr. Wilma Johnson, pastor, New Prospect Missionary Baptist Church, Detroit; and Bishop J. Drew Sheard, pastor of Greater Emmanuel Institutional Church of God In Christ, Detroit all brought powerful messages of strength, commitment; and dedication highlighting the work God has done through Dr. Brumfield.
The entire spirit-filled week was a testament of love for Dr. Brumfield – an indisputably righteous man that will be long-remembered.
11. IRS PUBLICATION 1828 FOR CHURCHES:
Every pastor and all church officers should read the IRS Publication for Churches. Pastors should read the entire document and become familiar with it. http://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/p1828.pdf. There have been some changes and additional requirements and pastors and church officers need to be aware of the changes. As the Rev. Melvin Wilson commented, “Information is power.”
12. NY JETS PLAYER & GRAMMY AWARD WINNING PRODUCER SIGN ON TO SUPPORT NEW FILM ABOUT BISHOP RICHARD ALLEN:
By Leslie Tyler
Fresh off a victory over the New England Patriots, NY Jets Offensive Lineman D’Brickashaw Ferguson steps in to support the new film about Bishop Richard Allen. Ferguson, a lifelong member of the AME Church, and his foundation “The D’Brickashaw Ferguson Foundation” is making the free, online presentation possible for millions of AME church members around the globe. In addition to music by the distinguished Wilberforce University Choir, under the direction of Jeremy Winston, the film score is composed by Grammy award winning producer Phil Davis of PHD Productions in Atlanta, Georgia. Davis has produced music with famous artists like Will Downing and Rachelle Farrell. Davis also once played piano for Big Bethel AME Church in Atlanta, Georgia. The film entitled Bishop Richard Allen: Apostle of Freedom is the first ever documentary about the life of Bishop Richard Allen, church founder and abolitionist. The film will premiere online on Sunday February 13, 2011, the day before what would have been Bishop Allen’s 251st birthday. You will be able to view the entire 23-minute film on the Mother Bethel AME Church website (www.MotherBethel.org). The film will remain online indefinitely. You will also be able to order your own, personal copy of the DVD starting February 13, 2011, also through the Mother Bethel website. There are more than three million AME church members around the globe, and many of them are expected to log on and watch the film on February 13th “on demand” for free. Church leaders and church members are organizing “watch parties” of the film at their homes and churches. The film will be viewed by AME’s on at least five continents.
Bishop Richard Allen Apostle of Freedom is a docudrama that was produced by Mother Bethel AME Church (www.MotherBethel.org) thanks to a generous gift from The Lomax Family Foundation (Dr. Walter Lomax, owner of LEVAS Communications which owns WURD-AM). “This is the first high quality, PBS style documentary on the life of Bishop Allen, arguably one of America’s founding fathers,” says Mother Bethel’s pastor the Rev. Mark Kelly Tyler, PhD., who also served as Executive Producer, Producer and writer for the film. The docudrama was filmed in Philadelphia by “History Making Productions.”
Bishop Richard Allen Apostle of Freedom was shot in Philadelphia with Philadelphia area actors, and extras who are members of both Mother Bethel AME Church (the congregation Bishop Allen started in 1794) and Historic St. George’s UMC (the church that Allen walked out of because of racial segregation). The short film tells some stories from Bishop Allen’s life adapted from his autobiography. The Bishop Allen character narrates the film as the voice of Bishop Allen. He also re-enacts historic moments like the infamous ‘walk-out’ from St. George’s United Methodist Church due to racial segregation. The intense scene was actually filmed in the balcony of Historic St. George’s. The film also has expert analysis from AME scholars and leaders including Bishop Richard Franklin Norris, who oversees the First Episcopal District; Dr. Dennis Dickerson, Historiographer of the AME Church; Dr. Jacqueline Grant, and Professor Richard Newman author of the most recent Allen biography.
Mother Bethel is seeking sponsors for the February 13th online premiere. Potential sponsors can view a free clip of the film at:
http://www.motherbethel.org/allen/index.html. Sponsorship can be obtained through the following levels: Diamond ($1,000), Platinum ($500) and Gold ($250). Funds raised from sponsorship will go to help translate the film into different languages so that the film can be viewed in all AME churches around the globe. The money will also help fund future projects. “We are currently in the planning stages of more documentaries that will tell the story of our church’s forefathers,” says Rev. Dr. Mark Tyler. “Our history is an important American story rich with accomplishments, conflict and drama.”
For more information about the film go to www.MotherBethel.org or call (215) 925-0616
13. PITTSBURGH ANNUAL CONFERENCE - 2nd ANNUAL DR. MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR. CELEBRATION:
*Shelly Brown
Wilkinsburg, Pennsylvania
Under the Episcopal Leadership of the Rt. Rev. C. Garnett Henning and Mother Ernestine Lee Henning the Clergy, laity, friends and family came to St. Mark African Methodist Episcopal Church in Wilkinsburg, Pennsylvania on Monday, January 17, 2011 to attend the 2nd Annual Dr. Martin Luther, Jr. Celebration under the theme “Keep the Dream Alive.”
Praise and Worship ushered in the Spirit of the Lord by the melodious voices of Wilkinsburg’s St. Mark African Methodist Episcopal Church choir.
The Worship Leader for the celebration was the Reverend Dr. James H. McLemore, Presiding Elder Pittsburgh District. Following the ascription of praise by Presiding Elder McLemore, the Call to Worship was given by the Reverend Yolanda S. Wright, pastor St. Paul African Methodist Episcopal Church, McKeesport, Pennsylvania, followed by the singing of “The Battle Hymn of the Republic.” The invocation was given by the Reverend Samuel Chambers, pastor Wayman Chapel African Methodist Episcopal Church, New Brighton, Pennsylvania.
The worshippers were warmly welcomed by host pastor, the Reverend Geoffrey E. Tate, II. The St. Mark African Methodist Episcopal Church Choir rendered a selection, “I Cried Holy.” The Reverend Kary Williams, Jr., pastor, Payne Chapel African Methodist Episcopal Church, Duquesne, Pennsylvania read Psalm 9:1-10 and the Reverend Mortty Ivy, pastor Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church, Monongahela, Pennsylvania read Romans 8:28-32. St. Mark African Methodist Church Choir rendered the selection “I Come to the Garden Alone”.
The Reverend Dr. Eric L. Brown, Presiding Elder Allegheny Scranton District (2012 Candidate General Secretary/Chief Information Officer) presented the preacher, the Reverend Dr. Steven Jackson, pastor Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
The Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church Gospel Choir sang two musical selections, “Lord, Help Me to Hold Out” and “I am kept by His Grace.”
The Reverend Dr. Steven Jackson’s theme was “Whatever happened to the prophet, the preacher?” The scripture Judges 18:1-8 and 17-19. In his provocative message, Dr. Jackson asked the waiting congregation where have the prophet preachers been since the death of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. in 1967. He further stated that preachers today are either contemporary or scared to speak out against social injustice and equality! He also said “There are also modern preachers who glorify themselves instead of God” and went on to say, “Black people are a people of the Word who come from a preaching tradition and to achieve this, we need to get along; start understanding a little better; keep commitments; give respect; offer some encouragement; and finally we need to ask for forgiveness.”
The recipients of the 2nd Annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Awards for their dedication and commitment to service inside and outside of the church were: The Reverend Lawrence Thompson, pastor Brown Chapel African Methodist Episcopal Church, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania; Mrs. Annabelle Henry, St. Paul African Methodist Episcopal Church, McKeesport, Pennsylvania; the Reverend Dr. Judith C. Moore, pastor First African Methodist Episcopal Church in Clairton, Pennsylvania; and Mrs. Barbara Lyles, Wayman Chapel African Methodist Episcopal Church, New Brighton, Pennsylvania. Each recipient was presented with plaque by their respective Presiding Elder.
The celebration concluded with the acknowledgement of the District Coordinators: Lady Margo Brown, of the Allegheny Scranton District and Mrs. Donna McLemore, as well as the Conference Leadership and other Visitors. A reception was held in the church undercroft following the benediction.
*Shelly Brown is the Administrative Assistant of the Allegheny Scranton District
14. AME MISSIONARY ELECTED OFFICER AND MEMBER OF THE CHRISTIAN SERVICE CHARITIES (CSC) BOARD OF DIRECTORS:
Ida Tyree-Hyche, J.D., newly-elected member of the Christian Service Charities Board of Directors for a two year term, 2011-2012, was recently elected an Officer during the CSC Board's meeting in Charlotte, North Carolina. Ms. Tyree-Hyche is the Board's new Secretary.
Christian Service Charities, located in Annandale, Virginia, is a federation of over 80 religious non-profit charitable organizations that participate in the Combined Federal Campaign (CFC). The organization, which ranks fourth in the nation of federal employees contributing to the CFC, showcases charities that epitomize serving humanity in God's name; thereby, helping millions of impoverished and starving people globally.
Ida Tyree Hyche, a federal employee with the Army Materiel Command at Redstone Arsenal, Huntsville, Alabama, represents the federal agency community on the board.
She is currently a candidate for International Editor of The AME Church Women's Missionary Society (WMS) Magazine and serves as the Ninth Episcopal District Director of the Young People's Division of the WMS.
15. INVITATION – YOU ARE CORDIALLY INVITED:
I take this occasion to announce to you the date and time of the retirement service for Presiding Elder, William A. Dyson, Sr. Reverend Dyson will be retiring from the Portsmouth/Richmond/Roanoke District of the Virginia Conference. The retirement service will be held at Third Street Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church in Richmond, Virginia, at 6 O'clock p.m. on Friday April 8, 2011.
Please mark this date on your Calendar. You will be receiving up dates about this affair as we progress with this event.
Submitted by the Rev. Godfrey Patterson
16. THE ARIZONA TRAGEDY:
Dr. Eric C. Little
Like so many people in America, I was saddened to hear about the recent tragedy in Tucson, Arizona. There have been mass murders before, and unfortunately, there will likely be others. Perhaps I was moved by the scope of death and carnage caused by one demented individual; the families whose lives will never be the same, and particularly the death of 9 year-old Christina Taylor Green.
There are those on both sides of the political aisle who seek to blame political rhetoric for Loughner's murderous acts. Others point to hate-filled politics that encourage a "my opinion is the only right one" kind of mentality. However, in the midst of tragedy it is human nature to seek someone or something to blame; to find something that will make sense of the madness.
For sure, I do not condone the tenor of today’s politics; but as the evidence so far suggests, Loughner was mentally unstable. Someone who knew him reported that his obsession with Rep. Giffords began several years ago when he attended a political event she sponsored. At the time, he asked her a question and didn't like the response he received. Apparently, he dwelt on that response until it consumed him. At the end of the day, nobody really knows what was in his mind on the day he decided to go on a killing spree.
Tragedies of this nature often compel us to ask “Why?” Even the prophets of old wrestled with trying to understand the chaos of their time. Habakkuk asked God, “Why do You show me iniquity and wrong…and cause me to see perverseness and trouble? For destruction and violence are before me; and there is strife and contention” (Hab. 1:3 - AMP). We may never fully understand why God allows tragedies of this nature, or any other tragedy for that matter. Perhaps it is better to ask questions that begin with “What?” What can we learn from this (or any) tragedy that can make us more compassionate and less critical of our fellowman? What can we do as a nation to reconcile our differences and seek to better understand each other? What can we do to curb the tide of gun violence that takes so many innocent lives each year? These are questions that can be answered, if we are willing to truly search for the answers.
Those of us who work in the field of mental health understand the dangers of an unstable mind, which leads to the final point of this letter. I think it would benefit all of us, clergy and laity alike, to educate ourselves about mental illness and its impact on our churches and communities. As clergy, we should think twice before we berate our parishioners from the pulpit for taking anti-depressants or any other type of psychotropic medication. We should strive to recognize the signs and symptoms of mental illness within our own congregations, and help those individuals find the resources they need to heal. And of course, we should continue to preach a gospel that offers deliverance to the captives, healing to the broken-hearted, and liberty to those who are bruised by the vicissitudes of life.
Eric C. Little, PhD, CCDP-D
Co-Occurring Disorders Professional – Diplomat
Pastor, Saint Luke A.M.E. Church, Louisville, AL
17. KINNAMON PRAISES NEW OBAMA POLICIES TOWARD CUBA; AN IMPORTANT FIRST STEP TOWARD JUST AND OPEN RELATIONS:
New York, January 18, 2011 -- The general secretary of the National Council of Churches welcomed the White House decision announced Friday that will lift travel restrictions between the United States and Cuba to make it easier for religious groups in both countries to engage with one another.
The Rev. Dr. Michael Kinnamon was invited to participate in a White House conference call Friday during which the changes were announced. The meeting was attended by AME Senior Bishop John Bryant.
"I was delighted to hear the news," Kinnamon said. "We had been asking President Obama to take these steps since the beginning of his administration -- most notably in a face-to-face meeting with the President and heads of NCC member communions in the White House last November.
The need for unrestricted communication between U.S. and Cuban religious groups was also lifted up during a rare visit to the United States by a delegation from the Cuban Council of Churches in November 2010.
The Cuban group addressed the General Assembly of the NCC and Church World Service in New Orleans.
The eight-person Cuban delegation, which was invited to the United States by the National Council of Churches, also met with members of the Obama Administration and Congressional representatives in Washington. According to a press release issued following a December 1 press conference in Havana, the group was told by Dan Restrepo, White House senior advisor for Latin America, that the Administration is "committed to not interfere in the internal situation in Cuba. In spite of our differences there is a policy of respect toward Cuba."
Kinnamon said the call for more open relations with Cuba "has been pressed by a united front of our member communions, our sister agency, Church World Service, as well as by our interfaith partners and other persons of good will."
"The White House announcement is an important first step toward more just and open relations between the U.S. and Cuba," Kinnamon said. "We look forward to the day when the U.S. embargo of Cuba will be lifted completely."
The White House said Friday that the change in policy is intended to "enhance contact with the Cuban people and support civil society through purposeful travel, including religious, cultural and educational travel." Under the new policy, religious organizations will be allowed to sponsor religious travel to Cuba under a general license.
In addition, accredited institutions of higher education will be allowed to "sponsor travel to Cuba for course work for academic credit under a general license; allowing students to participate through academic institutions other that their own; and facilitating instructor support from adjunct and part-time staff."
The order creates a general license for U.S. individuals and groups to send money to religious institutions in Cuba in support of religious activities.
All U.S. international airports may now apply to provide services to licensed charters to and from Cuba under the conditions of the order.
Since its founding in 1950, the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the USA has been the leading force for shared ecumenical witness among Christians in the United States. The NCC's 37 member communions -- from a wide spectrum of Protestant, Anglican, Orthodox, Evangelical, historic African American and Living Peace churches -- include 45 million persons in more than 100,000 local congregations in communities across the nation.
NCC News contact: Philip E. Jenks, 212-870-2228 (office), 646-853-4212 (cell), pjenks@ncccusa.org
18. CHURCH LEADERS MAKE RESPONSE TO "LETTER FROM BIRMINGHAM JAIL":
BIRMINGHAM, Jan. 14, 2011 – Participants at the annual meeting of Christian Churches Together in the U.S.A. (CCT) have issued a response to the "Letter from Birmingham Jail."
The response and a kink to Dr. King’s “Letter From Birmingham Jail” are appended below. If you have never read Dr. King’s Letter, “Letter From Birmingham Jail” please read it:
http://www.stanford.edu/group/King/liberation_curriculum/pdfs/letterfrombirmingham_wwcw.pdf
The CCT church leaders, who were in Birmingham Jan. 11-14, 2011, to examine the issue of domestic poverty through the lens of racism, noted that apparently no one has ever issued a clergy response to Dr. King's famous letter.
Martin Luther King Jr.'s letter was an answer to a message from a group of clergy in Birmingham in 1963. In their "Call for Unity," the clergy appealed for restraint and "common sense," and a withdrawal of support for the civil rights demonstrations.
In their one-page letter, the church leaders remember with gratitude the sacrifices of the leaders of the civil rights movement, who demonstrated the power of Christian, nonviolent action. They also express repentance that "some of us have not progressed far enough beyond the initial message from the Birmingham clergy."
"Too often our follow-through has been far less than our spoken commitments. Too often we have chosen to be comfortable rather than prophetic. Too often we have chosen not to see the evidence of a racism that is less overt but still permeates our national life in corrosive ways."
In their experiences at the Civil Rights Institute and the Sixteenth Street Baptist Church, the church leaders, who were of multiple races and represented a wide range of church backgrounds, found inspiration and renewed commitment. They describe two windows at the church – one where the face of Jesus had been blown out from the bombing in 1963 that killed four girls, and the other that depicts a Christ figure who with one hand rejects the injustice of the world and with the other extends forgiveness.
"In the spirit of this loving Jesus, and in the spirit of those who committed their very lives to that love, we renew our commitment to ending racism in all forms. We begin by taking time on Monday, January 17, to reread the "Letter from Birmingham Jail"--along with the message from the Birmingham clergy that prompted King's letter--and to reflect on its meaning for us today. We urge all within our churches to do the same."
Formed in 2007, CCT is the broadest Christian fellowship in the country, with members from the Catholic, Orthodox, Protestant, Historic Black, and Evangelical/Pentecostal families. In addition to 36 national communions, its membership includes six national organizations--the American Bible Society, Bread for the World, Evangelicals for Social Action, Habitat for Humanity, Sojourners, and World Vision. For the full letter and a list of the member communions, go to www.christianchurchestogether.org.
2011 Letter from Birmingham
We have gathered this week in Birmingham as representatives of the churches and organizations that make up Christian Churches Together (CCT). We came to examine poverty through the lens of racism.
After experiences at the Civil Rights Institute and the Sixteenth Street Baptist Church, we have felt compelled to make a response to the "Letter from Birmingham Jail." Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s famous letter was an answer to a message from a group of clergy in Birmingham. So far as we know, no one has ever issued a clergy response to Dr. King's letter.
Remembering. We begin by expressing profound gratitude to the leaders of the civil rights movement whose sacrifices have moved us closer to God's justice. Those leaders and thousands who followed their lead accomplished more than many could imagine, and demonstrated the power of Christian, nonviolent action. We celebrate the remarkable strides made through their courageous witness.
Repenting. We recognize, however, that some of us have not progressed far enough beyond the initial message from the Birmingham clergy. Though virtually all our institutions have formal statements against racism, too often our follow-through has been far less than our spoken commitments. Too often we have elected to be comfortable rather than prophetic. Too often we have chosen not to see the evidence of a racism that is less overt but still permeates our national life in corrosive ways.
Renewing. Though chastened by the unfinished nature of the work before us, we are inspired by the witness we saw reflected in both the history and the present-day ministry of the organizations we have visited in Birmingham. Dr. King's letter speaks powerfully to us today, even as it did in 1963.
We remember two windows in the Sixteenth Street Baptist Church. In one window, the face of Jesus had been blown away by the bomb that murdered four girls in 1963. The other window, a gift to the congregation after the tragedy, depicts a Christ figure that with one hand rejects the injustice of the world--and with the other extends forgiveness.
In the spirit of this loving Jesus, and in the spirit of those who committed their very lives to that love, we renew our struggle to end racism in all forms. We begin by taking time on Monday, January 17, to reread the "Letter from Birmingham Jail" – along with the message from the Birmingham clergy that prompted Dr. King's letter – and to reflect on its meaning for us today. We urge all within our churches to join us.
King’s letter:
http://www.stanford.edu/group/King/liberation_curriculum/pdfs/letterfrombirmingham_wwcw.pdf
Clergy letter:
http://mlk-kpp01.stanford.edu/kingweb/popular_requests/frequentdocs/clergy.pdf.
19. I’VE BEEN CALLED TO SERVE, SO I’VE COME TO SERVE:
*The Rev. Vickie Lynnette Williams,
Just like Jesus, a humble, caring, compassionate, and loving servant,
I’ve come to serve.
Just like Jesus, a human being humiliated, shamed, disrespected, but committed and focus about service.
I’ve come to serve.
Despite the silver cuffs so unnecessarily, and painfully squeezed ever so tightly on my wrists and ankles,
I have come to serve.
Despite the pain of controlling injections, unnecessary prescriptions, and shameful confessions,
Despite an unnecessary arrest which involved pepper spray being sprayed into my eyes,
I have come to serve.
Eleven shelters later, Disrespectful teachers, principals, DSS social workers, mental health providers, food pantry volunteers, clergy, professing devout Christians, Probation, Unemployment, SSI, FOOD STAMPS …
I have Come to Serve.
Incest survivor and an over comer of domestic violence
I am Here Just to Serve.
Nonetheless, as I continue being transformed, regenerated, renewed, and healed of the pains and shames of my past,
I Will Serve.
Even though I am too often ignored, rejected, disrespect, and misunderstood, however always protected by the Spirit of God,
I Will Serve.
Just like Jesus, a man of love, compassion, and empowerment,
I Will Continue to Serve.
Just remember, we do not need fame, fortune, or power – God has all Power!
We are grateful for love, respect, and acceptance.
We Have Come to Serve.
Currently, I am serving the marginalized: convicted criminals, thieves, past pimps, prostitutes, drug dealers, ex cons, homeless men and women, as I serve the church, I am also serving at Children’s Hospital. Serving blind and deaf children, children with missing limbs, babies who are terminally ill, children who are struggling with reading and writing and the church family.
Nonetheless, because of the People of God, the Power of God, and the Word of God, I am transforming into who God has destine me to be;
So, I Have Only Come to Serve.
I don’t need, or desire, Fame, Power, or anymore disrespect; WHY?
Because I Have Come to Serve as I complete and endure my trials, tribulations, and challenging tests.
I’ve come to serve.
* The Rev. V. Lynnette Williams is an Itinerate Deacon and is on the ministerial staff at Saint Paul AME Church in Cambridge, Massachusetts where the Rev. Marcellus Norris is the pastor.
20. ADMONISHED TO REMEMBER:
*The Rev. N.T. Pitts
Remembering seems to be a difficult task for some of us. When we are born, we are born with a blank mind; we know nothing.
We cannot remember things we have not experienced, have not been told or those things we have not learned.
As we live and grow, our experiences become indelible on our minds as ink is to a blotter. It is then and only then that we are expected, required and admonished to remember. How often have we heard the expressions; “I can’t remember” or “I can’t recall” and even, “I forgot.” We are just so forgetful!
Some of us have selective memory and some have a serious case of “convenient amnesia.” In other words, we remember what we want to remember.
There are various things that we do to remind us of things, like events and appointments, we don’ want to forget. We use bookmarkers and highlights, and alarm clocks and wakeup calls. We lay cornerstones and memorials. We leave Wills, and we wear wedding rings to remind us of our marriage vows. We leave notes on our refrigerators to remind us of things we don’t want to forget. Photo albums and heirlooms are reminders for us. If we are blessed and become famous, streets, highways and buildings are named in our honor, so others won’t forget us.
Humankind has always had problems remembering. There are numerous references throughout the Bible where God tells the people to remember. Over and over again, the people had to have their memories jogged.
Sometimes it takes tragic disruptions of our “normalcy” to jolt us into remembering.
Some of us forget during good times and only remember the bad times.
When we remember, we do one of three things: We remember and regret, we remember and repent, or we remember, rejoice and give thanks.
Remember the Sabbath - Exodus 20:8
And thou shalt remember - Deuteronomy 8:2
Remember now thy creator in the days.., - Ecclesiastes 12
I have seen couples get angry when one of them couldn’t remember the day and times they met and how long they have been married. I think most of us would agree that wives expect the husbands to remember.
In my early days of schooling we had to memorize; we “had” to memorize.
It was a good teaching tool. Even at this age I can still recite passages I memorized when I was in grade school.
Today, children are not challenged to memorize as they did when I was a child. Their minds do not get the mental exercises they need. All they have to do is pull out a computer, and “zip,” there it is!
Much of recorded in history came by way of “mouth to ear,” or oral history, because somebody remembered.
I sympathize with the elderly when they are not able to remember some things because of their deteriorating mental capability. But, I can’t accept the fact that many young people have a hard time remembering.
The thing that astounds me most is when you ask a “seasoned” church member to give a Bible verse. The first thing comes of his or her mouth is, “Jesus wept.” It is the easiest verse to remember. It is unbelievable. It is because some of us don’t think it’s important to remember Bible verses.
All of the years that many parishioners have attended church the only Bible verse they can remember is, “Jesus wept.” Jesus is probably weeping because of the large numbers of His followers can only remember, “Jesus wept.”
Our young people are falling into the same rut. Young people can remember the lyrics to every song of the top ten songs on the secular circuit, but they find it hard to remember a Bible verse except “Jesus wept,” and some of them are not familiar with that Bible verse.
Jesus left no markers, left no Will, left no highways or streets named after Him, left no heirlooms, left no epitaph, but he simply took bread and wine and admonished his disciples to eat the bread and drink the wine often as a “memory jogger.” Luke 22:17-20
Jesus knew that his sacrifice would soon be forgotten as people went about their daily activities, so he used bread and wine as simple reminders.
There is no saving power in the bread and there is no magic in the wine, but they serve as reminders that we have been redeemed by the shedding of His blood and we have been saved. The bread and wine are symbols of his broken body and shed blood. They serve to jog our memory, and in doing so, we should be thankful, glorify Him, and lift Him up.
Thought for Today: Of all of the things we may forget; we never forget the people we owe.
*The Rev. N.T. Pitts [Ptaegar@AOL.Com], Author, Counselor, Teacher, and Humorist, is a retired Itinerant Elder who lives in Eatonville, Florida
21. CLERGY FAMILY CONGRATULATORY ANNOUNCEMENTS:
- Congratulations to Sister Jackie Dupont Walker recipient of The National Human Rights Advocacy Award
Sister Jackie Dupont Walker, Consultant / Director of the Social Action Commission of the African Methodist Episcopal Church, was the recipient of The National Human Rights Advocacy Award. The award was presented to Sister DuPont Walker on Friday, January 7, 2011 by Church Women United in recognition of her Tireless, Unselfish, and Magnanimous Efforts in "living and making the challenge" of promoting human rights.
Congratulatory responses can be emailed to: JDUPONTW@aol.com
- Congratulations to the Reverend Dr. Constance C. Wheeler-Evans
The Reverend Dr. Constance C. Wheeler-Evans, Senior Pastor, Wayman Good Hope AME Church, Severna Park, Maryland was recently appointed as a trustee to represent the African Methodist Episcopal Church on the Washington Theological Consortium Board. The board members include but are not limited to the Presidents and Deans of 11 Theological Schools. The mission of the Consortium is to provide an ecumenical context, within the region of the Nation's Capital, for equipping leaders to serve the mission and ministry of the church in the world. It also will make known and provide the means for member institutions to share their rich theological and spiritual resources with students, faculties and laity. The consortium will seek to embody and witness more perfectly, through its membership, to the unity that is ours, so that all may believe. The board of trustees meets quarterly and the Reverend Dr. Constance C. Wheeler-Evans will serve for 5 terms. The Rev. Wheeler-Evans is honored to represent the AME Church and ask for your prayers.
Congratulatory responses can be sent to:
The Rev. Dr. Constance C. Wheeler-Evans, Senior Pastor
Wayman Good Hope AME Church
100 Hoyle Lane
Severna Park, Maryland 21146
Phone: 410-647-4867
Email: revccw@aol.com
22. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
We regret to share news of the passing of Brother Albert Chaney, the father of the Reverend Joe Chaney, pastor of Rocky Hill AME Church, Greensburg, Louisiana. Brother Chaney passed on Sunday, January 16, 2011.
Service arrangements for Albert Chaney:
Funeral:
Saturday, January 22, 2011 @ 12 Noon
Mount Everett A.M.E. Church
3289 Hwy 37
Greensburg, Louisiana 70441
Phone: 225-222-6820
The Rev. Troy Grimes, pastor
Services are entrusted to:
MJR Friendly Service Funeral Home
87 Paddio Johnson Lane
Greensburg, Louisiana 70441
Phone: (225) 222-4479
Fax: (225) 665-3285
Expressions of sympathy may be sent to:
The Reverend Joe Chaney
279 Chaney Road
Greensburg, Louisiana 70441
Phone: (985) 514-3842
Email: JoeC@Sthelenaso.org
23. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
It is with deep regret that we announce the passing of the Reverend Joseph H. Grant of Georgetown, South Carolina. The Reverend Joseph H. Grant, son of the late Reverend Joseph J. & Mrs. Lillie Mae Grant passed on Wednesday, January 12, 2011.
Funeral Services for the Reverend Joseph H. Grant was held on Monday, January 17, 2011 at Arnett AME Church in Georgetown, South Carolina.
The late Rev. Grant is survived by his daughter: Zenobia Kay Grant of Georgetown, South Carolina; Granddaughter, Alexis Grant; Siblings: Mr. Frank (Norma) Grant, Georgetown, South Carolina; Mrs. Patricia (Charles) Smalls, Columbia, South Carolina; Dr. Jacquelyn Grant Collier, Interdenominational Theological Seminary, Atlanta, Georgia; Ms. Dell Omega Grant of Georgetown, South Carolina; the Rev. Rosalyn G. Coleman, Presiding Elder of the Georgetown District, 7th, Episcopal District; the Rev. Dr. Debora F. Grant, Pastor, St. John AME Church, Columbus Georgia.
Condolences and expressions of sympathy may be sent to:
RCOLEMAN003@sc.rr.com
MNMCOLEMAN@sc.rr.com
Or:
Presiding Elder Rosalyn G. Coleman
804 Palm Street
Georgetown, South Carolina 29440
Phone:
(803) 414-2857
(404) 625-0099
24. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
This comes to inform you that the sister-in-law of Presiding Elder Eugene Brannon (Pine Bluff South District) has passed.
Mrs. Helen Brannon died Sunday, January 16, 2011 in New York, and will be eulogized by Presiding Elder Eugene Brannon on Saturday, January 22, 2011 at 10:00 a.m. in New York. We ask for your prayers as the Presiding Elder travels, and we request prayers for the family.
Condolences may be sent to:
Presiding Elder and Mrs. Eugene Brannon
1104 Giles Street
Little Rock, AR 72204
Email: eugene_brannon@sbcglobal.net
25. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
This communication comes to inform you of the passing of Mrs. Suzan Rochelle. Mrs. Rochelle is the sister of Mrs. Shelia Cole Washington and the sister-in-law of the Reverend Michael Washington, pastor of Allen Chapel AME Church, Sweet Home, Arkansas.
Service Arrangements for Mrs. Suzan Rochelle:
The funeral has been held.
Condolences may be sent to Reverend and Mrs. Michael Washington at:
#5 Eagle Glenn Cove
Little Rock, AR 72223
26. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICES AND CONGRATULATORY ANNOUNCEMENTS PROVIDED BY:
The Clergy Family Information Center
Bishop Carolyn Tyler Guidry, Chair
Commission on Social Action
Ora L. Easley, Administrator
AMEC Clergy Family Information Center
E-mail: Amespouses1@bellsouth.net
Web page: http://www.amecfic.org/
Phone: (615) 837-9736 (H)
Phone: (615) 833-6936 (O)
Cell: (615) 403-7751
BLOG: http://ameccfic.blogspot.com /
Twitter: https://twitter.com/AMEC_CFIC
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/The-AME-Church-Clergy-Family-Information-Center/167202414220
27. CONDOLENCES TO THE BEREAVED FROM THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER:
The Chair of the Commission on Publications, the Right Reverend Richard Franklin Norris; the Publisher, the Reverend Dr. Johnny Barbour and the Editor of The Christian Recorder, the Reverend Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III offer our condolences and prayers to those who have lost loved ones. We pray that the peace of Christ will be with you during this time of your bereavement.
Archive of The Christian Recorder Online from 2004-2016; Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III, 20th Editor of The Christian Recorder
