The Reverend Dr. Johnny Barbour, Jr., Publisher
The Reverend Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III, the 20th Editor, The Christian Recorder – Since 1852
--Reminders--
- AME Connectional Day of Prayer: April 13, 2011
- Palm Sunday: April 17, 2011
- Easter Sunday: April 24, 2011
- Pentecost Sunday: June 12, 2011
- AME Connectional Day of Prayer: April 13, 2011
- Palm Sunday: April 17, 2011
- Easter Sunday: April 24, 2011
- Pentecost Sunday: June 12, 2011
1. EDITORIAL – IN WORSHIP, THE GENERAL RULE IS; “WE STAND TO PRAISE GOD, WE SIT TO LEARN, AND WE KNEEL TO PRAY”:
Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III
The 20th Editor of The Christian Recorder
A few months ago group of people visited a church I attended and when the pastor announced the reading of the Old Testament scripture, the visitors immediately stood up. They did not wait for instructions from the pastor. Apparently, in their church, the congregation stood when the scripture lessons were read. My gut reaction was that those visitors displayed bad manners because, as a visitor to another church, and especially a church of another denomination, one should never be presumptive of the worship practices of that church.
I was at a connectional meeting some time ago and when the scripture was announced, several people, without waiting for the worship leader, jumped to their feet. Again, another case of bad ecclesiastical manners.
Several weeks ago, I had a person ask me about the appropriateness of standing for the reading of the scripture lessons. He felt that the Bible supported standing for the scripture and used as his justification a scriptural text that said the people stood when Ezra opened the Torah (Nehemiah 8:5). Assuming that the people were seated, of course they would stand to get a better view of the Torah, which they had not seen because the Law had only recently been rediscovered. In antiquity, most people stood because pews had not been invented.
The general rule in many churches; and it’s a very simple formula - “We stand to praise God, we sit to learn, and we kneel to pray.” Spoken or unspoken, the same rule has been followed in many AME Churches.
We stand to affirm our faith, the Apostles Creed or the Nicene Creed. We stand for the Doxology, the Call to Worship, the preface to The Decalogue, The Decalogue, the Gloria Patri, the offertory hymn and the benediction. We stand to sing hymns, but in some areas, AMEs tend to sit and reflect during the sermonic hymn/hymn of preparation.
It has been our custom, and is appropriate that we sit during readings from the Old Testament, the New Testament Epistles, the sermon, and the choir selections. It is appropriate to sit during the reading of the Psalms, but often if the Psalms are read responsively, worship leaders ask the people stand.
Following the rule, “We stand to praise God, sit to learn, and kneel to pray”; it is appropriate to sit during the scripture reading(s) because we are being taught by the Word of God. When God’s Word is being read, it’s a learning moment, not praise moment. Scripture lessons are “moments to learn and to be inspired” by God’s Word. We sit to learn and when we listen; we learn from God’s Word.
The emphasis on people bringing their Bibles to worship is a fairly recent phenomenon and is prevalent in evangelical and nondenominational churches. In some churches, reading the Bible along with the preacher is discouraged because it is believed that the public reading of the Holy Scriptures is meant to be heard, not read. Listening to God’s Word should help us to be better Christians and to help us to deal with life’s issues; and while the preacher is reading the text, parishioners should be listening and reflecting upon the sufficiency of God’s Word.
The reading of God’s Word is an important part of the worship service and only the best readers should be selected to read God’s Word. Poor readers should not be chosen to read God’s Word in a public worship service. And those who read God’s Word should never add to the scriptural text, such as repeating biblical phrases for emphasis. It is not appropriate for readers of the scripture to change the text in an attempt to make a text gender-friendly. God’s Word is sufficient and God does not need any help from those who read God’s Word. And, when called upon to read the scripture lesson, those invited to read should read it without protocol, comment, or personal testimony.
In the last 20 – 30-years, some AME congregations have started standing for the reading of the Gospel, but that has not always been the case. Early in Protestantism, most churches shunned all things that “smacked” at Roman Catholicism and we sat through all of the scriptural readings, to include any readings from the Gospels.
For instance, in Roman Catholic Churches, Episcopal Churches and in other sacramental churches, parishioners stood for the reading of the Gospel to acknowledge the presence of Christ in the Eucharist or in the preparation for the presence of Christ in the read Word of God. In some churches, the priest would often walk in the aisles among the parishioners reading the Gospel lesson signifying the presence of Christ in the worship experience. The Gospel lesson is less an act of praise, and more of an acknowledgement of the Presence of Christ. In some Episcopal Churches and other sacramental churches, if the Eucharist is not being celebrated, people might sit or stand during the reading of the Gospel Lesson.
I am afraid that there are some among us who have not done their theological and liturgical worship “homework” and as a result, follow and impose other practices upon the AME worship liturgy. Standing, sitting or keeling in worship is not a “You are going to Hell” issue; rather it is the understanding of worship and why we do what we do in worship.
The Apostle Paul speaks about order in worship; and parishioners and visitors in any worship service should be respectful of the person who is leading worship. If the worship leader indicates that all stand, all who are able, should stand; and if the worship leader does not give the signal to stand, parishioners should not take it upon themselves to stand. If the worship leader indicates that the congregation should sit, everyone should sit. The worship leader is in charge of worship.
The Bible has various things to say about worship posture, for instance in the Gospel account (Luke 18) of the prayer posture of the Pharisee and the tax collector, both stood in prayer, and some people might use that argument for people to stand during prayer. But, if you read Luke 22, Jesus knelt down in prayer; and in II Samuel 7:18, David sat down to pray.
In the AME Church, worshippers in the pews sit with bowed heads during the prayer and the clergy in the pulpit kneel; and laypersons who lead in prayers, kneel at the chancel rail.
The Roman Catholic Church invented and began utilizing pews during the Middle Ages and as a result, sitting or kneeling eventually became the normal posture for prayer for many western congregations. Before the use of pews, standing was the prayer posture. In some Eastern Orthodox Churches, parishioners stand for most of the worship service.
Something we have lost in the African Methodist Episcopal Church is the custom of, upon entering sanctuary for worship, to take our seat in the pew and with bowed head, offer a prayer of personal preparation for worship. “Old School” AMEs were taught not to talk in church before a service, but to take time for personal mediation; and to do the same at the close of worship.
Much of what we do in worship is based upon the AME liturgy, tradition, practices and customs in geographical areas and the personal preferences of the pastor-in-charge.
We have some AME Churches that practice “high church” liturgy and others that are “low church” and a number of churches that are in the middle, but whether high, low church or churches that are in middle, there should be a connectedness and a distinctiveness that identifies our worship, as AME worship.
We know that we should all stand for the Doxology, the Call to Worship, the preface to the Decalogue, the Decalogue, the Gloria Patri, the offertory hymn and the benediction; those are non-negotiable. We stand!
There is no rubric in The Book of Discipline of the African Methodist Episcopal Church 2008 or the AMEC Book of Worship that directs worshippers to stand or to sit during the reading of the scripture lessons. Historically, AMEs sat during the reading of all scripture but in the last several decades it has been an accepted practice in some of AME Churches to stand for the reading of the Gospel.
Should we stand or sit?
Worshippers should follow the directions of the pastor-in-charge or the person leading worship. If the pastor-in-charge or the worship leader directs the congregation to stand, stand, if you are able; and if you are not directed to stand, remain seated; be an obedient worshipper.
If I could insert the scripture rubric in The Discipline 2008 or the AMEC Book of Worship
I would direct worshippers to sit when the Old Testament, the Psalms, the New Testament Epistles are read. I would make it optional if the pastor or the worship leader wanted the people to stand or sit during the reading of the Gospel. It would be the option of the pastor or worship leader to sit or stand if the Psalms are read responsively; it is appropriate to stand for responsive readings.
If a congregation is full of poor readers, responsive readings should be avoided.
Sitting is appropriate for the reading of the scripture lessons because listening to God’s Word is not “praise time.” The Scripture lessons give worshippers the opportunity to hear God’s Word and to “learn” from God’s Word. Listening to God’s Word should help worshippers to be better Christians and help the hearers of the Word to deal with life’s issues. And, when the Scripture is being read, worshippers should be listening and reflecting upon the sufficiency of God’s Word.
The bottom-line
Worshippers should follow the directions of the pastor or the worship leader.
2. READER RESPONSE TO EDITORIAL AND OTHER ISSUES:
- To the Editor:
RE: AME Gwen Ifill, along with Charles Ogletree, will be the 2011 Morehouse College Commencement Speaker…
You mentioned that Ms. Gwen Ifill is a member of Metropolitan AME Church.
I just thought you and your subscribers and readers might want to know that Dr. Charles Ogletree is a member of St. Paul AME Church in Cambridge, Massachusetts. Both Morehouse College Commencement speakers are members of the African Methodist Episcopal Church.
Some additional information about Dr. Ogletree; He and his wife are members of St. Paul AME Church where the Rev. Marcellus Norris is the pastor. Professor Ogletree has been married to his fellow Stanford graduate, Pamela Barnes, since 1975. They are the proud parents of two children, Charles Ogletree III and Rashida Ogletree.”
Ms. Yolanda L. Hinton
Editor’s Note: The writer of the Letter to the Editor posted above, Yolanda L. Hinton has an extensive resume. She is a research engineer with 21 years experience in non-destructive evaluation of composite materials and has published more than 17 journal articles and conference proceedings. Ms. Hinton earned both her B.S. and M.S. degrees in mechanical engineering from the Massachusetts Institute for Technology (MIT).
- To the Editor:
This is to inform you that I also applied to the Asbury Theological Seminary's Wesleyan Studies Summer Seminar. Unfortunately, I was not selected. However, I was encouraged to apply next year. I attributed my non-selection to my age. After reading the appreciation note to you from the Rev. Dr. Ida V. James, I will apply next year. Age is not an issue. I, like Rev. Dr. James, thank you for sharing your resources with readers of the TCR.
Name withheld
- To the Editor:
Again, I thank you for your excellent editorials. They are very insightful and I look forward to the future editorials.
May I suggest you create a "Proposed Solution Section" for appropriate issues raised in some of the editorials? An example of what I mean is about your editorial about the effectiveness or lack of effectiveness of stewards and trustees and the comments made in a recent TCR op-ed by Dr. Wayman B. Shiver, Jr. concerning the issue of selecting stewards and trustees. A more active involvement of the congregation in the selection process of church officers would relieve the pastor from being solely responsible for all of the actions by the Board. This proposed process addresses the view that a pastor appoints only individuals that she or he can easily influence and control. This process also provides opportunities for fresh views to deal with issues.
We need to read about concerns and discuss solutions.
The Rev. Emma Jean Ghee Leche
Itinerant Elder in the Washington Annual Conference, attends Metropolitan AME Church, Washington, DC.
3. THE CONNECTIONAL DAY OF PRAYER ACTIVITIES SHOULD BE HELD IN ALL AME CHURCH COMMUNITIES WORLDWIDE. APRIL 13, 2011:
The Connectional Day of Prayer - Wednesday, April 13, 2011 [Midnight Apr 12th to Midnight Apr 13th]
Churches are encouraged to plan activities to include, but not be limited to: Season of Fasting – Early Morning, Mid-Day, and/or Evening Prayer Calls - Prayer Vigils – Prayer Walks - One Day Prayer Retreats; and much more!
Please Contact Episcopal District Offices beginning February 11, 2011 for information and suggestions that can assist in making the Connectional Day of Prayer impactful, powerful and meaningful in the life African Methodism
The Connectional Day of Prayer is endorsed by the Council of Bishops and the 48th Quadrennial General Conference Commission 2008. The Connectional Day of Prayer is an annual observance of the General Church. The Connectional Day of Prayer is under the auspices of the Prayer Committee of the 49th Session of the General Conference; Bishop Sarah F. Davis, Chair and the Reverend Dorisalene Hughes, Prayer Director.
Mark your calendars now for the 2011 observance of our Connectional Day of Prayer!
Submitted by Bishop Sarah Frances Davis, Presiding Prelate, 16th Episcopal District
4. PAUL QUINN COLLEGE STUNS THE HBCU COMMUNITY BY EARNING TOP HONOR – THE “2011 HBCU OF THE YEAR”:
Dallas campus brings home latest victory in a streak of accomplishments and achievements
DALLAS – March 23, 2011 – HBCU Digest and the Center for HBCU Media Advocacy, Inc. has named Paul Quinn College the 2011 HBCU of the Year. The honor was announced during the center's inaugural 2011 HBCU Awards ceremony held Friday, March 18, at North Carolina A&T State University. The awards crown historically black colleges and universities, along with students, administrators, alumni and programs, in the fields of leadership, arts, athletics, research and community engagement.
HBCU Digest and the Center for HBCU Media Advocacy Inc. received more than 1,000 entries supporting nominations for such categories as school of the year, student of the year, faculty of the year and alumnus of the year. Finalists for the HBCU of the Year honor, which included Hampton University, Spelman College, Jackson State University, Florida A&M University, St. Augustine’s, Texas Southern University, Grambling St. University and Bowie State University, were selected by the center's leadership. Winners were named by a panel of HBCU students, alumni and administrators.
"The committee was particularly moved by our resiliency and tremendous success over the last 18 months (Food for Good Farm at Paul Quinn College, seven-figure budget surplus in FY10, demolition of 14 abandoned buildings, improved fundraising, overhaul of the core curriculum, creation of the Writing Program, etc.)," President Michael Sorrell wrote in an e-mail to Quinnites moments after learning the news. "This is a special night and a special time in our institutional history."
About Paul Quinn College
Paul Quinn College is a private, faith-based, four-year liberal arts college founded by and affiliated with the African Methodist Episcopal Church. The College was founded in Austin, Texas, on April 4, 1872, and is one of the nation’s 110 Historically Black Colleges and Universities. The college provides a quality, faith-based education that addresses the academic, social, and Christian development of students and prepares them to be servant leaders and agents of change in their communities. Academic excellence lies at the heart of the College’s mission, along with the values of integrity, responsibility, accountability, fiduciary responsibility, and an appreciation of cultural diversity. Members of the college’s student body, faculty and staff, called Quinnites, are achieving “Greatness…one step at a time,” by living the “Four Ls of Quinnite Leadership,” which are: Leave places better than you found them; Lead from wherever you are; Live a life that matters; and Love something greater than yourself.
About The Center for HBCU Media Advocacy, Inc.
The Center for HBCU Media Advocacy, Inc. seeks to promote the mission, culture and development of America’s historically black colleges and universities through new media exposure, training and education. To accomplish this mission, the Center has a three-tiered vision of execution: to expose students, alumni, administrators and supporters of HBCUs to news, current affairs, research, arts, politics, culture, and financial issues influencing and being influenced by these institutions; to provide HBCUs and their constituents with resources to enhance their public relations and communications ability with social networking and media communication strategies; to facilitate scholarship access, internships, conferences and training seminars to develop minority journalists studying at historically black colleges and universities in understanding and utilizing new media.
5. MESSAGE FROM BISHOP A.J. RICHARDSON, JR. TO CHALLENGE VII, 90-DAY COVER TO COVER BIBLE READERS:
Dear Bible Readers:
From time to time, I will reach out to you as an encourager for us to remain diligent and disciplined in the reading task we have undertaken. To read the Bible from cover to cover in a year is a great accomplishment, but to read it through in three months is phenomenal.
If you started yesterday, April 1, you should have concluded Genesis 16 and the narrative concerning Hagar and Ishmael. In reading that chapter, isn't it inspiring to know that Divinity knows where we are? In our struggle, disappointment and hurt, God knows where we are. As God did for Hagar, God will do for us: dispatch a ministering angel to reassure us, strengthen us and make a pledge and a promise about our future.
In 2011, God is still El Roi, the God who sees. As a lover of hymns, this one just broke into my spirit, "The Lord has promised good to me, His 'word' my hope secures. He will my shield and portion be along as life endures."
I pray that God will grant you insights even as you dash through the Word.
Yours in the Word,
A. J. Richardson, Jr.
Honorary Chair, 90-Day Cover to Cover Readers of the Bible
Editor’s Note: Bishop Richardson is the Honorary Chair of the 90-Day Cover to Cover Readers of the Bible. Bishop Sarah Frances Davis is the Honorary Chair for the 180-Day Cover to Cover Readers of the Bible
6. AME CHOIRS ARE INVITED TO AUDITION AND TO PARTICIPATE IN VERIZON’S “HOW SWEET THE SOUND” EVENT:
Verizon How Sweet the Sound (www.howsweetthesound.com) is partnering with the Music and Christian Arts Ministry of the AMEC to encourage AME Church Choirs to audition to participate in this year’s program. Verizon is celebrating the sweet sounds of church choirs all over the nation again this year in the following markets:
Los Angeles, Oakland, DC, Atlanta, Chicago, Dallas, Detroit, St. Louis, and Charlotte and would love to invite your choir to join us this year. There is a six hour radius for each market, so choirs in regions all across the country will have an opportunity to join us.
Currently there are no other live stage productions of this quality and size that offer a platform for choir music ministry to the world. Verizon is offering a minimum monetary gift of $3000 just for participating. The gifts increase with each award. Registration is completely free.
The Rev. Anthony B. Vinson, Sr. (mcam.amec@gmail.com), the Connectional Director of the AMEC Music and Christian Arts Ministry, is the coordinator for the AME Church.
Sign Up to Participate Now—Hurry! Registration ends April 15th!
There are no fees to enter and your choir could win up to $50,000 in cash and prizes. Create an account below and complete the registration process by 11:59 p.m. EST on Friday, April 15, 2011
You are encouraged to register!
The time has come to stand up, clap your hands and raise them high! How Sweet the Sound 2011 is here, and registration is underway. Choirs across the country will join together to worship and rejoice—and those who have already participated know it's an inspirational and spiritual experience you will never forget.
Verizon is the sponsor of the How Sweet the Sound Choir Contest. How Sweet the Sound™ is a trademark of Hill, Holliday, Connors, Cosmopulos Inc., D/B/A Erwin-Penland.
**Submitted by the Rev. Anthony B. Vinson, Sr., the Connectional Director of the AMEC Music and Christian Arts Ministry
7. BISHOPS ADDRESSING UNFINISHED BUSINESS:
Bishops from the Pan-Methodist denominations gathered in Atlanta, March 20-22 to explore ways to be a united Methodist voice and to come together in ministry and fellowship, addressing unfinished business. The Pan- Methodist denominations include the African Methodist Episcopal (AME), the African Methodist Episcopal Zion (AMEZ), the African Union Methodist Protestant (AUMP), the Christian Methodist Episcopal (CME), the Union American Methodist Episcopal (UAME), and the United Methodist Churches. Since 1978, this group has met once every four years. Bishop Alfred Lloyd Norris (UMC) presided during the Consultation and Bishop John F. White
(AME) chaired the Steering Committee that planned the Consultation.
The theme for the 10th Consultation of Methodist Bishops was “A Crisis in Leadership: Methodism for the 21st Century.” The Consultation began with a magnificent worship experience at Big Bethel AME Church in Atlanta, where Rev. Gregory Vaughn Eason serves as pastor. This hosting congregation is the oldest African-American congregation in Atlanta. Bishop William P. DeVeaux, presiding prelate of the Sixth Episcopal District of the AME Church was the preacher using as a subject: “Taking Care of Unfinished Business.” His scripture test was Titus 1:6 and he charged the attendees to pray, re-establish the strength of the community and to trust in the promises of God. As Methodists, we see the world as our parish and understand that there is always the task of spreading the gospel and finding ways to engage in ministry that meets the needs of people. Therefore, the Bishops explored ways to intentionally take care of some of the unfinished business. Dr. Lisa Allen, professor of Church Music at the Interdenominational Theological Center led a 75-voice Pan-Methodist Choir in providing an uplifting ministry of music.
The challenge to Methodists is to get to know each other and find ways to raise a united voice for Methodism in the world. Fifty-four Bishops attended the Consultation, including eight women and four international Bishops.
One area of unfinished business requiring cooperation is the Pan-Methodist Campaign for Children in Poverty. This campaign seeks to assist congregations in working together Pan-Methodistically to make a difference in the lives of children, especially those who are most vulnerable. This campaign is led by Dr. Luther Smith, Professor of Church and Community at Candler School of Theology at Emory University. Currently, all sixteen Pan-Methodist seminaries have endorsed the campaign and are working to make a difference.
Bishop William Willimon, (North Alabama Area – UMC) challenged the Bishops using the subject: ““Why Bishops Are a Gift of God for Wesleyan Christianity.” Bishop Willimon discussed the history of the episcopacy in Methodism, the responsibility of Bishops to watch over the Church in love, the duty to lead clergy and congregations in accountability, and the theological principle of itinerancy and its importance in modern times. As church leaders, Bishops must be courageous in their roles to maintain the Church’s sound doctrine and ensure that Methodism is firmly connected to the historic Christian faith. He urged the Bishops to reflect on the richness of the Wesleyan tradition, the joy of leading in the name of Jesus Christ, and the authority they have to appoint clergy in ways that will most effectively celebrate the divinity of Christ through solid ministry.
Bill Lamar and Nancy James of the Duke University Leadership Education Team lead the Bishops in exploring key questions around the collective wisdom, accountability, partnerships and ministries that could be done together such as training opportunities, Vacation Bible Schools, partnerships with public schools, et cetera. In small groups and as a whole, the Bishops participated in mind-mapping and other activities in an environment of collaboration and sharing. During their time together, the Bishops of Methodism were able to identify common challenges in their denominations and strategies to build ministries and grow churches.
Bishop A. L. Norris stated that several bishops indicated that they had attended previous Consultations, but the Tenth Consultation was the best. Bishop J. F. White expressed thanks for the level of participation and excitement that the Bishops voted to continue the dialogue every two years rather than once each quadrennium.
If additional information is needed, you may contact Mary Love at 704 650-1411 or panmethodist@aol.com.
**This message submitted by Dr. Mary Love (AMEZ Church)
8. DR. MANNING MARABLE, AN AFRICAN AMERICAN SCHOLAR AND ACTIVIST REMEMBERED:
The NAACP issued the following statement on the loss of Dr. Manning Marable, an African American scholar and activist who worked as the director of the Institute for Research in African American Studies at Columbia University's School of International and Public Affairs in New York:
"Dr. Marable's contributions to the struggle for freedom of African Americans will never be forgotten," stated NAACP President and CEO Benjamin Todd Jealous. "Dr. Marable brought one of the keenest intellects of our age to the contemporary conversation on race in America. As an academic he was never afraid to speak his mind, and as an activist his words carried the gravitas of a published author. His life was dedicated to the struggle, and he will be sorely missed.”
The Marable family is planning to hold a public memorial service on May 27. Dr. Marable leaves behind 3 children and two stepchildren.
Editor’s Note: Dr. Marable wrote a number of outstanding articles for The Christian Recorder. He will be missed and we ask our readers and subscribers to pray for his family.
9. STATE OF THE COUNTRY - THE 146TH SESSION OF THE GEORGIA ANNUAL CONFERENCE:
Bishop William P. DeVeaux is the Presiding Prelate of the 6th Episcopal District and Dr. Patricia PAM DeVeaux is the Episcopal Supervisor.
Once upon a time, America was touted as a stand-alone world superpower. All other nations looked to her for guidance, direction, support, defense, and as an example to aspire for as others strived to be a nation “after God’s own heart”. Historically, she was the one at the forefront of all efforts to live peaceably as a melting pot that invited the poor, huddled masses yearning to be free. However with the inception of “FaceBook”, “Myspace”, “YouTube”, “Twitter”, “text”, “Skype”, and other such communication technologies that are being conceived even as we speak, no longer can we brag that we have an exclusive copyright on freedom, democracy, and independence. No longer can we profess to be removed from and unaffected by the rest of the world, for we have seen during the past year that occurrences and activities around the globe have had a profound affect on how we function as a nation, our perception internationally, and indeed on our very survival.
America’s example of democracy no doubt was a major influence on the decision of the Egyptian citizens to end the longtime reign of President Hosni Mubarak as the President of Egypt. In light of a 38-year governance, President Mubarak was seen as a dictator, allowing privileges to a select few while the remainder of the country lived in abject poverty. Given their geopolitical placement in the Middle East, and the long-standing relationship with America, it became incumbent upon President Obama to make a decisive statement concerning how the protesters and Pres. Mubarak’s initial resistance should be handled. Too much or too little action had the potential to upset relations with Egypt, a long time ally, and the rest of the Middle East. It’s no secret that our fuel prices are directly tied to oil production or the lack thereof in that region. As oil prices increase due to shortage of oil (through military seizure or destruction of wells, etc.), fuel prices increase, which in turn affect transportation. When transportation is affected, prices of common items begin to increase in an effort to compensate for the increased cost of delivery, etc. In short, uprisings a half a world away have a bearing on inflation here in the United States. Thankfully, the protesting ended peacefully with President Mubarak conceding to the will of the Egyptian people.
Meanwhile in Libya, the same desire for democracy, surely fueled by the success of Egyptian protests, sparked a similar demonstration for the removal of President Muammar Gaddafi. However, the Libyans’ efforts at freedom from tyrannical rule have been met with senseless bloodshed and vehement defiance. In the midst of this international upheaval, Pres. Obama has been placed in a geopolitical quagmire. U.S. Congress has pressured him to “be the America that we once were”, i.e., step up to the plate, go in there, shoot first and ask questions later. After all, that has been the American way. However with the poise and deliberation of a true diplomat, Mr. Obama consulted the U.N. for guidance and support, ultimately choosing to place no-fly zones in the area followed by air assaults. As Mr. Obama painfully decided to engage in a semi military conflict with Libya, our new Congress has once again demonstrated their utter disdain with the administration of a very capable leader who happens to be African-American. Now, the argument is that his actions border on the same clandestine decisions made by his predecessor Mr. Bush concerning his invasion of Iraq. Wait a minute! If memory serves this writer correctly, Mr. Bush was praised by his right-wing constituents as a military hero; effectively ridding the world of a “Middle Eastern Devil” named Saddam Hussein! Others have stated that Mr. Obama didn’t move fast enough on his decision. Still others are demanding that the humanitarian President Barack Obama relinquish his award and all other privileges appertaining thereto of the Nobel Peace Prize. Even Stevie Wonder can see the racist undertones of such a double standard. Nevertheless, the United Nations and America, along with other countries remain unrelenting in their pressure, and Mr. Gaddafi remains unyielding in his defiance. Oh, did I mention that Libya, along with many others, is also a major producer of oil to America? What happens abroad indeed affects our homeland.
Recently, the island of Japan suffered the most devastating earthquake and resulting tsunami in their recorded history, with thousands suffering loss of life, health, and property. Billions of dollars in lost profits has spurred global economic concerns as Japan’s Nikkei (the Japanese version of our New York Stock Exchange) investors scramble to keep their economy from utter collapse by the Japanese government dumping billions more into their stock market. Given that we are so heavily dependent on Japanese imports and are also in debt to the country to the tune of a figure close to the damage incurred, jobs in America are threatened. Consequently investors in America are equally nervous regarding the effect that these natural disasters in Japan will have on our own stock market and the economy as a whole. To further exacerbate fears, the U.S. west coast is close enough to the island to express legitimate concerns about a possible tsunami ripple effect on her shores along with the possibility of shifting winds blowing radiation from severely damaged nuclear plants in our direction which could threaten life as we know it. What happens abroad affects our homeland.
In January, we observed the one-year anniversary of the earthquake in Haiti that left thousands dead, maimed, and homeless. The outpouring of support by the international community has been demonstrated even here in America as millions have looked beyond themselves and offered prayers, finances, and even physical assistance by going to Haiti and adopting many orphaned by this catastrophe that they may have a fresh start from the ravages of nature. This is yet another testimony to the fact that America can no longer see herself as an isolated and aloof participant in a world that has become smaller and smaller.
In stark contrast, another form of immigration has taken the forefront. The treatment of Mexican citizens crossing our borders has, to some, become an epidemic that has contributed to underemployment of American citizens, and an increased criminal element fueled by the import of drugs, weapons, and other illicit activities that threaten the “moral fiber” of our nation, when a great majority of immigrants are simply escaping a violently oppressive and corrupt government in search of a better future for themselves and their posterity (ironically the same philosophical motivation that has historically inspired all immigrants including those of us who call ourselves “real Americans”, to call these shores home). Another argument is that their presence displaces jobs from citizens. And with children of illegal immigrants being born in the U.S. as natural born citizens, there is the concern of such status giving them access to the same privileges as anyone else born in the U.S., further straining healthcare, education, social security, and other such amenities as are enjoyed by all Americans. The concern is so widespread as to become the deciding platform agenda of many politicians in states disproportionately affected by the influx. What happens abroad affects our homeland.
Meanwhile on the home front, a new party calling themselves the “tea party” has arisen, threatening to take America back to the “good ole days”. On every hand, they have bewailed and bemoaned everything that Pres. Obama has attempted to do in an effort to even the economic playing field. Their cries were loud enough to incite a following of disgruntled citizens who are fed up with both ends of the political spectrum, complaining about everything from the economy to jobs to healthcare reform to military involvement abroad, yet have offered nothing more than empty complaints with no feasible alternatives. They have even gone so far as to blame the President for British Petroleum’s Gulf oil spill that threatened coastal seashores, sea life, and the seafood industry from Louisiana to the Florida Keys. Playing on the ignorance and anger of those who have become victims of self-serving Republican policies in the past, they were able to inundate Capitol Hill with a barrage of freshmen senators and congressmen/women who know about as much about the dynamics of the political landscape as a cat would know about swimming. The result, “Take back the country by any means necessary”. However, their strategy could very well be “Take the country back by any means necessary”; back to a privileged few being in power; back to the socially underprivileged being oppressed in every aspect of that which constitutes life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness; indeed back to a form of slavery that feeds on the poor and underserved while continuing to reward those who’ve inherited a silver spoon. Their efforts have done little more than create a bottleneck of progress that threatens to set this country back 100 years.
In light of unemployment continuing to flirt with rising, an education system that, by many estimates, borders on bankruptcy resulting in widespread hysteria of budget cuts, and a healthcare reform that saunters on complete rejection in exchange for a re-reform compliments of an elite few who cannot fathom the prospect of sharing their privileged healthcare with those who have been forced to choose between food and medicine, it would seem that a haunting picture has been painted of our “new reality”. Yet the current administration remains steadfast, forward thinking, and visionary in his belief that all Americans have a birthright to a way of life that epitomizes the best that America has to offer, realizing that we can no longer live in a self-designed vacuum where we are completely independent from the rest of the world. In light of the aforementioned condition of our country, it is to some painfully clear that we do not stand alone. Not only do we have a responsibility to our own country but also to the world.
Humbly submitted, the Committee on the State of the Country: The Rev. Stephen Lee, the Rev. George Moore, Jr., the Rev. John Morse, Jr., the Rev. Sherronda Brown, the Rev. Ernest Ryals, the Rev. Joseph E. Baker, the Rev. Gregory Lordnum, the Rev. James Minor, the Rev. Glenda Layton Kenneth Wilson; Sister Jeanette Scott, Sister Wanda Dwight, Sister Linda Cooper, Sister Edna Thornton, Sister Calandra Holmes, Sister Beverly Hall; and Brother Clarence Williams.
10. ELCA, AFRICAN METHODIST EPISCOPAL ZION (AMEZ) BISHOPS AGREE TO MISSION STATEMENT:
CHICAGO (ELCA) -- The Conference of Bishops of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) and the Board of Bishops of the African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church said it is time for the two churches to "come together as communities of faith and to know each other in order that we might be more effective as people of God."
The bishops made the declaration in a "Statement of Mission" affirmed by the ELCA Conference of Bishops when it met in March in Itasca, Ill. The Board of Bishops of the African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church previously adopted the statement.
The mission statement will be presented to the ELCA Church Council in April for information and for possible "consideration of reception" on behalf of the ELCA.
The mission statement was developed by bishops of both churches through an "ecumenical discourse" that began in 2006, shortly after the African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church's Hood Seminary moved next to the ELCA North Carolina Synod office in Salisbury. The Rev. Leonard H. Bolick, bishop of the ELCA North Carolina Synod, and the Rev. Dr. Albert J.D. Aymer, president of Hood Seminary, began talking about how the two churches could work together. Bolick and Senior Bishop George W.C. Walker Sr. of the African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church met, and their conversations were referred to the bishops of both churches. A national discourse was initiated with the goal of seeking cooperative and effective efforts in ministry.
The Rev. Mark S. Hanson, ELCA presiding bishop, said it has been "a blessing" to participate in the discourse with the African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church the past four years.
"The history and witness of this historic Black church has been one of leadership in the struggle for freedom and justice," Hanson said. "Their prophetic voice calls us to repentance and reconciliation confronting our power and privilege as a predominately White denomination."
In the discourse, leaders of the two churches discussed their shared commitment to theological education, responding to HIV and AIDS, and the vitality of congregations, Hanson said. Members of the two churches are encouraged to gather locally to share stories of faith "and develop new ways to serve our neighbors creating communities of hope," he said.
The African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church "is about the ministry of reconcilers," said Bishop Kenneth Monroe of the church's South Atlantic Episcopal District. Monroe is currently secretary of the Board of Bishops and will soon serve as its president.
"I'm sure the ELCA is involved in a lot of good ministries," Monroe said. "There may be some things we can do together to enhance what we do and what the ELCA does. We're hopeful we can start some things."
A gathering of leaders and members of both churches is being planned for September in Salisbury, N.C. Monroe said at that gathering, he expects that leaders of the ELCA and the African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church will share theological perspectives and worship together. The two churches will also explore tangible ways of working together in ministry.
The Statement of Mission "is a way in which we can build on a trust relationship … then move into some very specific places where we're going to try to build a model for sharing ministry together," said the Rev. Donald J. McCoid, executive for interreligious and ecumenical relations.
Dr. Michael R. Trice, ELCA ecumenical and inter-religious relations, will work with Bolick and the Rev. Herman R. Yoos III, bishop of the ELCA South Carolina Synod, Columbia, to implement the two churches' collective work in the Carolinas. A similar effort will be planned for Chicago.
"This relationship is one of the most inspiring evolutions in my ecumenical labors in recent years," Trice said. "From African Methodist Episcopal Zion and ELCA bishops, the relationship required trust, commitment to the role of the church in the world today, and sincere mutual accompaniment toward greater unity."
Bolick said the mission statement provides an opportunity for a historic White church and a historic Black church to consider ways to be involved in ministry. It also opens up "new possibilities for sharing common mission activities" such as community development.
In the mission statement, the bishops of both churches said they are called to one another as brothers and sisters in Christ.
"This calling is shared in trust by all Christians who profess an abiding faith in our Risen Lord," the statement said. "The calling of these churches, and indeed of all Christians, is to be restorative agents of God's redeeming work in the world."
The mission statement said both churches are called to be about "the reconciling efforts of Christ's command" and to draw people to Christ so they might be transformed by Christ's word and ministry. It invites members of both churches to share stories of faith, and to be partners "as we share the witness of God's vision throughout the world."
The African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church has more than 1 million members and is headquartered in Charlotte, N.C. It is recognized for its devotion to religious, educational and social causes.
Information about the African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church is at http://www.amez.org/news/index.php on the Web.
About the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA)
The ELCA is one of the largest Christian denominations in the United States, with approximately 4.5 million members in more than 10,000 congregations across the 50 states and in the Caribbean region. Known as the church of "God's work. Our hands," the ELCA emphasizes the saving grace of God through faith in Jesus Christ, unity among Christians and service in the world. The ELCA's roots are in the writings of the German church reformer, Martin Luther.
11. CONSEQUENCES OF A U.S. GOVERNMENT SHUTDOWN:
Comment from Mrs. Jacqueline Dupont Walker: The basic facts below represent vital knowledge for the immediacy. The bigger picture still looms large as the details of the impact of the proposed cuts become clear. We urge all AMEs to become very conversant about the source of their income and services so that each can communicate with his/her Congressperson or US Senator about the ways that their vote will affect the lives of those in our community. Please take the time to read the information appended below.
Consequences of a U.S. Government Shutdown
• Outside economists have said a shutdown will hurt our recovery and slow economic growth, and the Speaker admitted it will cost more than it saves.
• If a shutdown should occur, small businesses -- the engine of our private sector job growth – would wait for loans from the SBA, Americans who filed a paper return would wait for their IRS refund check, and mortgage lenders could cease lending because FHA wouldn’t be able to guarantee their loan.
• Two years after a devastating recession, we learned last week that more than 1.8 million jobs have been created in a little over a year. It is the height of irresponsibility to allow a shutdown just as our economy is starting to recover.
Background:
These critical services would not cease:
• Social security checks for seniors, people with disabilities and survivors would still go out.
• Troops would be able to continue to serve.
• Critical homeland security functions such as border security would continue.
These critical services would likely cease:
• FHA new home loan guarantees may cease. During spring home buying season, this suspension of new issuances could have a gravely adverse effect on recovery of housing market. Private mortgage lenders across the country could suspend new home loan closings as a result of having no assurance those loans will be guaranteed. 30% of the market is FHA loans.
• SBA approval of applications for business loan guarantees and direct loans to small businesses would likely cease, impacting the engines of our economy, which could slow economic momentum.
• IRS processing of tax refunds for paper-filed returns (approximately 30% of total), and performance of tax audits, would be suspended.
• Operation of E-Verify activities by DHS will be suspended – which could slow down new hiring.
• Patent processing will be suspended.
Other areas that would cease:
• All areas of the National Park and National Wildlife Refuge Systems will be closed. Limited access to public lands would adversely affect communities that depend on recreational tourism.
• Smithsonian Institution and National Gallery of Art will close to the public (although Kennedy Center will remain open, due to significant private funding sources).
• District of Columbia: DC Trash collection would be suspended for first 3 days of funding lapse. DC Public Libraries (except for security), and a variety of District offices that perform non-excepted functions, including the Department of Motor Vehicles, would suspend operations.
Boehner/Business Roundtable:
•Rep. Boehner Said, “If You Shut the Government Down, It’ll End up Costing More Than You’ll Save Because You Interrupt Contracts…” “‘If you shut the government down, it’ll end up costing more than you’ll save because you interrupt contracts – there are a lot of problems with the idea of shutting the government down – it is not the goal,’ Boehner said Friday outside his office suite in the Capitol.” [The Hill, 4/1/11]
• Business Roundtable highlighted the negative impact on the U.S. economy and that a shutdown could impact the recovery’s momentum.
• Ivan Seidenberg, the business group’s chairman, said even a short shutdown would put this prospect at risk. ‘I don’t think any of the CEOs would welcome a government shutdown,’ said Seidenberg, also the CEO and chairman of Verizon Communications…. Seidenberg said problems for business from a shutdown would run from contracts being postponed to disruptions in the supply chain. He also said companies could have a hard time getting approvals for various licenses approved by the government. Business Roundtable President John Engler said business would also face the danger of the ‘law of unintended consequences.’ Interest rates could rise because of a shutdown, and there could be turmoil in financial markets, according to Engler, a former Republican governor of Michigan.” [The Hill, 3/30/11]
12. THE GOSPEL WRITERS:
The Rev. Dr. Helen M. Bolden-Rogers
Four distinctly different types of men
all made similar by strokes of pen.
Recalling and retelling events;
no idea of being heaven-sent.
Recorders of truth, bearers of good news;
givers of guidance for all to use.
Neither notable nor extraordinary at birth,
mortal men from the earth;
Born to families in their day,
they lived in the traditional way
Until God’s plan began to unfold.
You see, God’s story must be told!
And why He chose the likes of them,
can only be fully known by Him.
The why, what if, and just suppose
are unimportant to one who knows
that all men sent forth from God’s hand
have purposes to serve in God’s great plan.
Let’s look at the first of these four men:
viewed by his own as a man of sin;
without loyalty and devoid of pride,
his commitment to self he did not hide.
As tax man, he was no one’s friend;
an outsider to both kith and kin.
Not welcome at functions of the Jews,
we are still amazed at what God can use!
Neither his traits nor qualities commended him;
but Matthew was God’s like the rest of them.
Jesus came by one day and bade him come.
His obedience surely was questioned by some.
Nevertheless, he forsook all to follow along
and what resulted is Matthew’s song.
Though originally intended for his people, the Jews,
God gave it for even the yet unborn to use.
It tells of the arrival of the conquering King
who preaches with power and removes death’s sting.
With divine authority, this nobody taxman
presents roots that go farther than anyone’s can.
He introduces the Messiah, for whom they waited,
tells of parables, miracles, and how He was hated.
If Matthew, the outcast had low self-esteem,
his answering Jesus can clearly be seen
as curing all ailments without and within.
Separate from Jesus there is nothing but sin.
John Mark, the second of these four
wrote an equally timeless score.
That he was young, we readily know.
He’s action-packed and breathless to show
the servant-savior to the newly formed sect.
He proclaims in a ‘straightway’ as one would expect.
He dramatically tells as Jesus as guide:
his service, ministry, sacrifice, how He was tried.
Encouragement from Mark helped new Christians endure.
He set forth the role mode, of this we are sure.
And this was a youth, not yet fully grown
but he listened, believed, and made it all known.
Luke, unlike the others, was not a Jew,
a literary, learned man, whom many knew.
He used his knowledge to further the cause.
He is detailed, all-inclusive with hardly a pause.
Jesus, he portrays as the Son of Man;
Universal, accessible as no other can.
Order, details and documentation
are offered to all of every nation.
Universality of Jesus is Luke’s theme
as he paints a totally complete scene.
He gives time, place, who all was where.
Women, prodigals, thieves even now share
In the glorious, good news sent down from above
embodied most mercifully in Jesus’ love.
The Gospel of John is not quite the same.
It is not known by the ‘synoptic’ name.
This symphony stands separate, yet it’s a part;
with love as it ending and also its start.
Much indeed can be said of John.
He was Mary’s sister’s son.
His center is God. Jesus always was there:
human and divine, so full of care,
The word, light, and lamb, God’s only son,
The door, living bread and water, the victory won!
John wrote for the faith just at its start.
He purposed belief would fill every heart.
Here for the first time, we hear Jesus say
that He’ll send the comforter forever to stay.
Abundant life’s available to Gentile and Jew.
God used them to tell us. He already knew.
Four different versions, yet so much the same;
each gloriously proclaiming Jesus’ name.
Four different proclaimers just like us.
We have stories to tell and tell them we must!
13. EPISCOPAL AND CLERGY FAMILY CONGRATULATORY ANNOUNCEMENTS:
- Congratulations to the Right Reverend Carolyn Tyler Guidry, Presiding Prelate of the Eighth Episcopal District
Congratulations to The Right Reverend Carolyn Tyler Guidry, Presiding Prelate of the Eighth Episcopal District AME Church and Chair of the Commission on Social Action. Bishop Carolyn Tyler Guidry will be inducted into the Morehouse College, Martin Luther King, Jr. Board of Preachers.
Each year the Martin Luther King International Chapel at the world-famous Morehouse College presents the Spiritual and Science awareness week. During this celebration the Dean of the Chapel inducts persons who have been nominated and approved through a rigorous process into the chapel’s highest honor. This is an ecumenical induction and has included many of the nation’s premier scholars and most respected preachers. This year the Board has chosen The Right Reverend Carolyn Tyler Guidry, the 122nd Bishop of the AME Church. The ceremony and other fanfare will convene Thursday, April 7, 2011 at 10:00 a.m. at Morehouse College, Atlanta, Georgia, in the MLK Chapel.
Congratulatory messages can be sent to:
Bishop Carolyn Tyler Guidry
8th Episcopal District AME Church
5450 Executive Place
Jackson, MS 39206
601-366-8240 – Office
601-366-8175 – FAX
601-605-0068 – Home
Email: eighthdistamec08@aol.com
Residence:
201 Sawbridge Drive
Ridgeland, MS 39157
- Congratulations to Mrs. Lily Boyd, 105th Birthday Celebration
Mrs. Lily Boyd, widow of an AME Church pastor in the Tennessee Conference of the Thirteenth Episcopal District and Life Member of the Women’s Missionary Society of the African Methodist Episcopal Church, celebrated her 105th birthday on Wednesday, March 30th. Mrs. Lily Boyd is a member of Lee Chapel AME Church in Nashville, Tennessee, the Reverend Edward Lee Thompson, pastor; and she continues to work with the Women’s Missionary Society.
Belated birthday wishes can be sent to:
Mrs. Lily Boyd
2530 Walker Lane
Nashville, TN 37207
Phone: (615) 227-2776
Submitted by,
Sister Mary Falls Scott
Tennessee Conference
- Congratulations on the 103rd Birthday of Sister Bessie Wynn
Sister Bessie Wynn of Blountstown, Florida celebrated her 103rd Birthday on Tuesday, April 5, 2011. Sister Wynn is the widow of the late Rev. Samuel Wynn who passed several years ago and she has been an active member of St. Paul African Methodist Episcopal Church in Blountstown, Florida for much of her life. The current pastor at St. Paul is the Rev. Calvin Griffin.
Please send Birthday Greetings to:
Mrs. Bessie Wynn
P.O. Box 133
Blountstown, Florida
32424
Or email her granddaughter, Mrs. Stacy Spence at stacyjspence@yahoo.com
- Congratulations to the Rev. Dr. Joan L. Wharton and Mr. and Mrs. Simeon (Danielle) Wharton on the Birth of a Baby Girl
"Praise The Lord!!! We are praising God for the birth of Simone Joyce Wharton, born Thursday, March 31, 2011 at 3:52 p.m. Baby Simone Joyce Wharton weighed 7 pounds and 11 ounces. Baby Simone is the third grand-child of Pastor Joan L. Wharton - Mt. Zion A.M.E. Church in Glen Arm, Maryland, and the first child of Simeon and Danielle Wharton, officers of Empowerment Temple A.M.E. Church, Baltimore, Maryland. The late grandmother Joyce D. Harrod would be very proud.
Congratulatory messages can be sent to Dr. Joan L. Wharton, j.l.wharton@att.net
14. GENERAL OFFICER BEREAVEMENT NOTICE – SISTER-IN-LAW OF DR. RICHARD ALLEN LEWIS:
We are saddened to share news of the passing of Mrs. Cordelia Askins Mrs. Cordelia Askins Johnson, the sister of Mrs. Delores Askins Lewis, wife of General Officer, Dr. Richard Allen Lewis, Sr., Treasurer/Chief Financial Officer of the African Methodist Episcopal Church, passed on Sunday Evening, April 3, 2011. She was a retired educator and a member of Mary's Chapel AME Church, Fayetteville, Tennessee.
Service Arrangements for Mrs. Cordelia Askins Johnson:
Saturday, April 9, 2011
Family Visitation: 11:00 a.m. - 11:45 a.m.
Funeral: 12:00 Noon
Saint Paul A.M.E. Church
521 W. College Street
Fayetteville, Tennessee 37334
931.433.0675
Interment is immediately following.
Professional services are entrusted to:
Lewis & Wright Funeral Directors
2500 Clarksville Hwy.
Nashville, TN 37208-1060
Ph: 615.255.2371
Fax: 615.255.4926
Condolences and expressions of sympathy may be sent to Lewis & Wright Funeral Directors (address above) or to:
Dr. and Mrs. (Delores A.) Richard A. Lewis, Sr.
6 Camelback Court
Brentwood, Tennessee 37027
Ph: 615.776.8690 (h)
615.776.8691 (f)
Email: dee6lewis@aol.com (Mrs. Delores A. Lewis)
cfo96amec@aol.com (Dr. Richard A. Lewis, Sr.)
15. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
Service arrangements for the Late Rev. Nolan T. Pitts:
Viewing/Wake
Date: Friday, April 8, 2011
Time: 11:00 A.M. (family only) / 6:00 P.M. - 8:00 P.M. (Public viewing)
Place: Ward Chapel AME Church, 160 S. Pennsylvania Avenue, Winter Park, Florida
Pastor: John D. Williams, Sr., MAC
Homegoing Services
Date: Saturday, April 9, 2011
Time: 2:30 P.M.
Place: Mt. Olive AME Church,
2525 W. Church Street
Orlando, Florida
Pastor: The Rev. Mark E. Crutcher, PhD
Eulogist: The Rev. D. Luther Bell
Funeral Home
Marvin C. Zanders Funeral Home
232 W. Michael Gladden Blvd.
Apopka, Florida
(407) 886-3388
Expressions of Sympathy may be sent to:
Mrs. Barbara Pitts
524 Ruffel Street
P. O. Box 2111
Eatonville, FL 32751
Telephone: (407) 644-5985
16. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
We regret to share news of the passing of Thaddeus Timothy Watson, brother of the Rev. James C. Watson, Jr. and brother-in-law of Sister Viola Watson, pastor and first Lady of Saint Paul AME Church, Stuart, Florida.
Services will be held:
Saturday, April 9, 2011 at 11 a.m.
Bartley Temple United Methodist Church
1936 Northeast 8th Avenue
Gainesville, Fl. 32641-4788
352-376-6899
Funeral Home:
Pinkey-Smith Funeral Home
727 N.W. 2nd Street
Gainesville, Fl. 32601-5356
Phone: 352-376-8686
FAX: 352-376-8660
17. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
We regret to share news of the home going of Mother Queen Ella Hopes Grooms, (90 years young) the mother of the Rev. Orbelle Henderson, the pastor of Nesmith African Methodist Episcopal Church in West Mifflin, Pennsylvania.
The final arrangements for Mother Queen Ella Hopes Grooms are as follows:
Viewing:
Wednesday, April 6, 2011 2 p.m. - 4 p.m. and 7 p.m. - 9 p.m.
Bethlehem Baptist Church
716 Walnut Street
McKeesport, PA 15132
Telephone: (412) 664-7272
Home Going Celebration:
Thursday, April 7, 2011 at 11:00 a.m.
Bethlehem Baptist Church
716 Walnut Street
McKeesport, PA 15132
Final Arrangements Entrusted to:
Robert A. Waters Funeral Home
2326 Jenny Lind Street
McKeesport, PA 15132
Telephone: (412) 672-3551
The Rev. Orbelle Henderson can be contacted at:
1713 Meadow Street
McKeesport, PA 15132
(412) 678-9232
bhenderson1713@comcast.net
18. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
We are saddened to share news of the passing of Sis. Jessie Mae (Leonard) Earls, former First Lady of Johnson Chapel A.M.E. Church in Fort Worth, TX and Shiloh A.M.E. Church in Galveston, TX and former widow of the late Rev. M. J. Leonard.
Sister Jessie Mae (Leonard) Earls went home to be with her Lord on Saturday, March 26, 2011. Following are the final arrangements:
Viewing - Friday, April 1, 2011, 1:00-6:00 pm
Shiloh AME Church
1310 Martin Luther King Boulevard
Galveston, TX 77550
409.762.3646
Revs. Eric and Myra Billips, Pastors
Homegoing Celebration - Saturday April 2, 2011, 11:00 am
Greater Macedonia Baptist Church
401 3rd Avenue North
Texas City, TX 77590
409.948.3993
Rev. Robert Maxey, Pastor
Sister Earls' earthly remains have been entrusted to:
Mainland Funeral Home
2711 Texas Avenue
La Marque, TX 77568
409.938.8123
Expressions of sympathy may be sent to her surviving husband:
Deacon Melvin Earls
5706 Anderson
Texas City, TX 77591
Phone: 409.908.0184
19. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
We regret to announce the passing of Mrs. Elsie Jean “Duck” Warfield, the mother of Sister Tracey E. Cox and the mother-in-law of the Reverend Ashley Q. Cox, pastor of Saint Matthew AME Church, Cornersville, Tennessee. Mrs. Elsie Jean Warfield passed away following an extended illness.
Graveside services for Mrs. Elsie Jean Warfield will be conducted Sunday, April 3, 2011 at the Fort Cooper Cemetery in Hickman County, Tennessee at 1:00 p.m., with the family gathering at Williams Funeral Home in Columbia at 12:00 Noon.
Condolences and expressions of sympathy may be sent to:
The Reverend and Mrs. Ashley Q. Cox
St. Matthew AME Church
402 South Main Street
Cornersville, Tennessee 37047
Or expressions of sympathy may be emailed to:
Sister Tracey E. Cox - tea_cox@hotmail.com
Messages of condolence may also be placed in the online Guest Book:
Williams Funeral Home
2517 Trotwood Ave.
Columbia, TN 38401
(931) 388-2135
http://obit.williamsfh.com/obitdisplay.html?id=914147&listing=Current
20. 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
21. 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.
