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
The Reverend Dr. Johnny Barbour, Jr., Publisher
The Reverend Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III, the 20th Editor, The Christian Recorder – Since 1852
December:
National HIV/AIDS Awareness Month
Thought for the week:
“If our young black men are
to soar, if they are to achieve their potential, they must have examples of
success around them, not just on the athletic field but in every endeavor. We
need to let our young man know that there are more board-certified black cardiologists
than black basketball players in the NBA.”
- Robert L Harris Jr., professor of African American history at Cornell
University, writing in the Syracuse Post-Standard, 12/18/11.
Merry Christmas and a
Blessed New Year!
We, at The Christian Recorder, wish all of our
subscribers and all of you who read The Christian Recorder Online, a
Merry Christmas and a Blessed New Year!
The AMEC Sunday School Union will be closed December 23,
2011 thru January 3, 2012 for the Christmas Holidays.
A poem written by Rosalie Jones Moore expresses again
expresses our Christmas wish for all of our subscribers and readers of The
Christian Recorder Online.
His Season
It is that joyous,
Time of year,
That loved ones
travel,
From far and near,
Coming together,
To bring joy and
cheer,
Sharing gifts from
the heart,
To loved-ones dear,
The time of year,
To celebrate the
glorious life,
Of the Son of God,
Our Lord and Savior
– Jesus Christ,
Take the time,
To remember the
reason,
That Christ died
for our sins,
So that we could
celebrate –
His Season
©Copyright November 17, 2009 by Rosalie Jones Moore
1. THE NEXT ISSUES OF THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER ONLINE:
The next issue of The Christian Recorder Online will feature the life and homegoing service of the late Bishop Richard Allen Hildebrand whose funeral was held on Saturday, December 17, 2011.
The next issue of The Christian Recorder Online will feature the life and homegoing service of the late Bishop Richard Allen Hildebrand whose funeral was held on Saturday, December 17, 2011.
The follow-on issue of The Christian Recorder will
feature an editorial based upon a telephone call the Editor received from
Sister Jones who wanted to comment on the editorial, “Get Over it” that was
published in the November 5, 2011 issue of The Christian Recorder Online.
That editorial focused upon women in ministry. Sister Jones had some
interesting comments and a different perspective on the issue of women in
ministry. I asked Sister Jones if Sister Smith was going to be on the
call and Sister Jones said that this was her issue.
We hope that all of our subscribers and readers of The
Christian Recorder will have a blessed Christmas.
Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III
The 20th Editor of The Christian Recorder
The 20th Editor of The Christian Recorder
2. READER RESPONSE TO
EDITORIAL AND OTHER ISSUES:
- To the Editor:
RE: Editorial Ministry
Requires Strategy and Leadership in the print edition of The Christian
Recorder dated December 26, 2011
The Pastor’s Annual Report is
located on Page 690 in The Book of Discipline of the African Methodist
Episcopal Church 2008 instead of page 60, which was incorrectly listed in
the editorial.
I really enjoy reading your
editorials.
Brandon Owens, member of the
Steward Board
Corpening Chapel AME Church
Morganton, NC
Editor’s Comment:
Brother Owens, thank you for pointing out the typo, I guess the “9” just didn’t
want to stay where I originally put it. You are correct, the Pastor’s Annual
Report begins on Page 690.
3. HIGHLIGHTS OF CONVO XV DECEMBER 13-14, 2011:
The Rev. Velma Grant
Gaylord Opryland Resort and
Convention Center in Nashville Tennessee was the site for The AME Church’s
CONVO XV on December 13 -14, 2011. Bishop Vashti Murphy McKenzie is the
presiding prelate of the 13th Episcopal District, which includes the
state of Tennessee, and the CONVO Chair is Bishop Gregory G.M. Ingram. The
theme was “God’s Abundance in the Midst of Tough Times - Bringing it All
Together: Spirituality, Service and Stewardship.” The following represents
highlights and observations of CONVO XV.
Bishop Sarah Frances Davis led the
attendees in devotion and told them “…listen to what the Spirit is saying to
the church through you...” In her words of welcome the host Bishop, Bishop
McKenzie greeted the attendees and shared information about the 2012 AME
General Conference that will also be held at the Opryland Resort.
Bishop McKenzie also shared
information from a recent church study and said “…business as usual is
unsustainable…need to have new behaviors, not just the change of
systems…thriving churches do not look back to what used to be…they are mission
minded without abandoning mission and tradition…25 years ago people joined the
church because of their parents, today people join because of the worship
experience…will we be able to make the decision to birth new behaviors in the
church? …birth does not happen without pain and labor…in time we will find out
if we can go through the pain/labor to bring forth change…”
Bishop McKenzie’s words set the
tone for the topics as well as the group discussions because it is
apparent that there needs to be a shift whether spiritual or physical to make
ourselves “better” or align our thinking and living with God’s instructions and
the intentions of our AME Church pioneers. As people, culture and demographics
change, it is imperative that the ecclesial body maintains a system that will
honor the words of the song “We are Climbing Jacob’s ladder…Every Rung Goes
Higher and Higher….Soldiers of the Cross…” The song is evidence that we are an
upwardly mobile people (every rung goes higher and higher) and each generation
should build on the legacy of the previous generation while simultaneously
honoring Jesus and the symbol of Calvary. CONVO provides the time for such
discussions in hopes of embracing change to make ourselves better people of God
and to ensure the future of the AME Church.
The AME Church has a wealth and
abundance of individuals that are intelligent, eloquent, passionate about
teaching, preaching and concerned about the welfare of God’s children and the
longevity of the AME Church. This was evident in the topics presented by the
assigned speakers, the sermon preached by the Rev. Dr. William Watley as well
as the information gleaned from the various group discussions.
Bishop Samuel L. Green, Sr.
introduced three speakers. In addition, each spoke briefly to the general
body about their assigned topics. The first speaker was the Rev. Roderick D.
Belin, Pastor of Kairos AME in Tennessee who addressed the topic "Discerning
the Spiritual Challenges and a Test of our Institutional Resiliency."
He reminded the gatherers that “…we are in the season of Advent…it is important
that we discipline ourselves…as African Methodist there are problems to
resolve…we have been called to preach the gospel…God calls the prophet…are you
willing to be prophetic…are you willing to speak truth to power…are you willing
to confront your own stuff…are you willing to practice the presence of God…how
poor do we have to get, how many resources do we have to lose before we get
back to prayer…the heartbeat of God is the cadence for which we live our entire
lives…maybe it is time we have to admit that we are not as strong or smart as
we think…maybe it is time for us to have less of these meetings …”
The second speaker the Rev. Brenda
Payne, Pastor of Payne Chapel in Houston, addressed the topic From
Membership to Service. She shared the challenges, the places of tensions
and the feasible solutions to move members into service. Some challenges of
membership include declining church attendance; Stress on the faithful (the
faithful few are now the tired few); senior population is dwindling and so is
the economic support (they are aging and dying). Feasible Solutions include: We
must teach/preach Biblical principles and precepts; Teach using our AME
resources; Teach the Great Commission; Teach the necessity for one t have
passion for ministry and service: serving others is serving Christ (ministry is
different from program). Rev. Payne concluded that we should “…teach and preach
until we can say, Houston, release the boosters. We’re positioned for the next
level!”
The third speaker was the Rev.
Jonathan L. Weaver, Pastor of Greater Mt. Nebo AME in Maryland and his topic
was Stewardship. The Rev. Weaver shared ways that the church as
well as the individual - Can save money (Collective purchases of products &
services, Comparison shopping), Increase revenue (Estate Planning, Combined
Federal Campaign, E-giving and Debit Card Swipe for Tithes/Offerings) and
Increase giving ( Preach on it, Use technology, Online giving, Use testimonies
and Express thanks).
After the listening to the three
speakers, the attendees had an option to participate in one (or as many as they
chose to attend) of several group discussion sessions. The groups had their
discussion on Tuesday and on Wednesday, the results and recommendations were
shared with the general body. Group discussion topics included Reformation
of Worship, Responsibilities of an Effective Member; Denominational Goals for
the Quadrennial; Spirituality and the Christian Faith. For a complete
listing of the seven discussion groups and their recommendations as well as
information from the three speakers above, please contact the General
Secretary, the Rev. Dr. Clement Fugh at cio@ame-church.com or the Editor of The Christian Recorder, the Rev. Dr. Calvin
Sydnor, III at: chsydnor@bellsouth.net.
Dr. William Watley, Pastor of Saint
Philip AME Church in Atlanta Georgia preached from the Scriptures I Samuel 4:
19-22, I Chronicles 29: 1-9 and II Chronicles 7: 1-3. Dr. Watley used the
sermon title “Overcoming the Spirit of Ichabod!”
The sermon served as a challenge, a
call to action and repentance to both the clergy and laity of the AME Church.
Dr. Watley shared that Ichabod represents the loss of what is essential and
vital to our identity. He said “…as painful as it might be with all of our
accomplishments…there is something missing that represents the glory of God…the
glory has just been eclipsed…from the bench to the pulpit to the pew and from
the pew to the pulpit to the bench, those of us in leadership have to own some
responsibility for the spirit of Ichabod that grips us…what did David do when
God said no…did David sit around and mourn that he was embarrassed, no…David
prepared to build to support what God said that he could not do…Leadership is
not about fleecing people…kingdom leadership understands that one should put
(its) money where its mouth is…kingdom leadership is about helping people grow
to another level…kingdom leadership develops other leadership…is not a predator
of people…kingdom leadership, when it fails it falls on its face and
repents….after David gave his own gift, he called on the leaders…part of the
recovery of the glory is the generous sacrificial free will giving first of
leadership…”
In conclusion there is work to be
done, people need healing, issues need to be addressed, the despondent
need to be encouraged, the aged need to be protected and the infants cared for
as we search for ways to honor God with our lives. CONVO (s) provide an
opportunity for the AME community of faith to dialogue, reflect, repent and
change. If our “change is gonna come” each individual needs to make a conscious
effort to abandon the spirit of “Ichabod” and embrace the spirit of Jesus. That
spirit was one of self-sacrifice, sharing and caring, not one of selfishness
and greed.
Our future generations should not
wonder why the Church and its educational institutions are in shambles or
extinct but they should reflect and marvel at the great work that this
generation has achieved. There is still time!
4. THE GENERAL COMMISSION AND CONVO HAILED A SUCCESS
LEADING TO THE 2012 GENERAL CONFERENCE:
Dr. Phyllis Qualls-Brooks
Nashville, TN. The African Methodist Episcopal Church held
its General Conference Commission and CONVO XV on December 12-14 at the Gaylord
Opryland Resort and Convention Center in Nashville, Tennessee. The event
brought more than 550 AME officials, delegates, observers and vendors to the
conference.
The event served as a forerunner for the General Conference
to be held June 27-July 4, 2012 at the Opryland Resort. Approximately
30,000 attendees are expected to attend the 49th Quadrennial of the General
Conference of the African Methodist Episcopal Church.
The Commission meeting allowed officials to work out the
details of the June event, including touring the Opryland campus, finalizing
scheduling of activities and scheduling ancillary activities such as
connectional meetings.
Bishop Gregory G.M. Ingram, Chair of the Commission said,
"The December Commission & CONVO XV meeting were critical for the
success of the General Conference this summer. I am pleased by the
progress we are making and encouraged that the intricate facets, details and
dynamics to have a flawless General Conference are being put in place; even
more I salute the people, both professional and volunteers, who are stepping up
to the plate to offer their time, talents, skills, and services to make a
difference."
The Quadrennial of the General Conference occurs every four
years in a predetermined city in the United States; in 2008, it was held in St.
Louis, Missouri. Presiding Prelate Vashti Murphy McKenzie, Bishop of the 13th
Episcopal District (covering the states of Tennessee and Kentucky), will be the
host Bishop of the event. "I am honored to serve as host for this major
event in Music City, USA, having lived and served this area for nearly eight
years. I want to showcase all the 13th district has to offer and our team of
officials and volunteers will work tirelessly to see that it happens. We are
excited!"
AME officials, delegates, observers, entertainers, vendors,
family and friends will occupy Gaylord Opryland and the surrounding area.
Treasurer and CFO of the AME Church, Richard A. Lewis, said, "It is a
special honor for me to be a part of this event in my hometown. I want
all the thousands of people from around the world to fall in love with
Nashville and Tennessee. We will certainly do our best to show our guests
true Tennessee hospitality." The Treasurer added, "The economic
impact this event will have on Nashville is tremendous."
The theme for the conference is "Exalting Christ to
Impact the World," and will feature worship services, business meetings
and the election of Bishops and General Officers of the church worldwide. For
more information about the AMEC General Conference, visit http://www.ame-church.com/ ; email 2012GC@amecnational.org; or call 202.371.8700.
Submitted Dr. Phyllis Qualls-Brooks
5. THE INCREDIBLE 129TH SESSION OF THE CHICAGO
ANNUAL CONFERENCE WAS HELD IN TINLEY PARK, ILLINOIS:
*The Rev. Robert
Andrews
The theme for the 2012 Chicago Annual Conference was, “An
Incredible Innovation.” The Right Reverend John Richard Bryant is the
Presiding Prelate of the Fourth Episcopal District and the Rev. Dr. Cecelia
Bryant is the Episcopal Supervisor.
Our incredible, innovative God was on display during the
recent Chicago Annual Conference.
The conference was held Wednesday, October 19th
to Sunday, October 23rd 2011, at the Tinley Park Convention Center,
Tinley Park Illinois under the leadership of Bishop John R. Bryant, Senior
Bishop of the AME Church and the Reverend Dr. Cecelia Williams Bryant, WMS
Supervisor.
The Annual Conference theme was, “An Incredible Innovation”
taken from Isaiah 43:19.
The Reverend Mickarl Thomas pastor of Grant Memorial AME
Church in Chicago was the host pastor.
The Roll Call and Conference Organization began with the
ministers and delegates answering the roll with a Bible verse. The Hour of
Power preacher was the Reverend Theonita Bedford, pastor of Thomas-Allen AMEC.
Her sermon was preceded by the church’s Liturgical dancers in purple and
white.
Pastor Bedford's sermon title was, “It Pays to Stay
Connected” and her text was taken from John 15:4, 5. The preacher pointed
out that the flu shot provides immunization and “guards from that which is yet
to come”; the Holy Ghost does the same.
The Bishop remarked after the sermon, “If you 'Catch on
fire, as the Reverend Bedford did, people will watch you burn.”
The Wednesday afternoon session featured Pastoral Reports,
including the number of signatures obtained for the Richard Allen Stamp
petitions. The Opening evening Worship Service commenced with the
Ministers dressed in black robes.
Presiding Elder Louis Toney, the preacher for the Annual
Sermon, used Philippians 2:13-15 as the text; the subject: “Where Do We Go From
Here?”
The Presiding Elder's fiery sermon concluded by answering
the question by saying, “We go to Jesus!” The Reverend Toney's spirited Annual
Sermon brought the congregation to its feet.
Thursday morning the plenary session was preceded by
Christian Education Classes and Conference Institutes. The session began with
Pastoral Reports and ended for the Hour of Power, conducted by the Women In
Ministry.
The sermon was given by the Reverend E. Anne
Henning-Byfield, Presiding Elder in the 4th Episcopal District and a
candidate for episcopal service; her text was Psalm 149:6; her subject:
“Mighty Be Our Power!” The Reverend Byfield gave examples of women who modeled
the text. She said the text called for “High praises in your mouth and a
two-edged sword in your hand.” Her dynamic sermon was well-received.
The Thursday afternoon session continued with Reports.
Highlights included a church changing its name to “River of Life” and the work
of one of the new pastors impacting the surrounding community.
The Laity were in charge of the Thursday evening Worship
titled, “An Evening with the Chicago Conference Lay Organization: God Gave Me a
Song” featuring musical performances by lay members of the various Presiding
Elder Districts. Guest musician was the Reverend Anthony Vinson. In
his remarks, Bishop Bryant described the participants as talented, gifted and anointed
men and women of God; thus ending the Thursday conference day.
The Friday Business Session began with Election of
Delegates, followed by Reports. The noon Hour of Power preacher was
the Reverend Dr. James Wade, Executive Director for Department of Church Growth
and Development. Dr. Wade used as his text, Psalm 72:16. The preacher
referenced the top of the mountain as the least fruitful place in the
land. Dr. Wade exhorted the conference to come get the corn for planting
as the Spirit moved and the multitude responded to receive the corn.
After lunch the Business Session continued with stakeholder
reports. The Disciplinary questions were then asked by Bishop
Bryant. The Chicago Annual Conference will next meet in 2012 at St. Mark
AME Church in Milwaukee. The conference adjourned until the “call of the
Bishop.”
After dinner, a wonderful Youth Night Explosion Service was
held, inspired by the youth. “Reverend C” remarked during the service, “I’ve
seen God tonight, I’ve seen our future.”
The Saturday schedule included the morning, Memorial Service
and the Ordination Service.
The ordination sermon was preached by the Right Reverend T.
Larry Kirkland, Presiding Prelate of the Fifth Episcopal District.
The conference concluded Sunday with the closing service
held at 10 a.m.
Bishop Bryant preached a dynamic, spirit-filled sermon
entitled, “Our Innovative God Can Use What We Have”, using 2 Kings 4:1-4 for
the text.
“Bishop John” used a “Fur Coat' illustration and pointed out
that an old, worn out fur coat was given to him. The Bishop had the coat
remade by a furrier so it could be used, rather than throwing it away. He
said “Don't ever minimize what you have”; the widow used the oil she had and it
was more than enough to fill all of the pots that were available.
After the powerful sermon the appointments were read; most
pastors returned to their churches, there were some changes, and members left
the conference inspired. Some pastors will receive their appointments at
the Fourth District Planning Meeting.
Once again, our incredible, innovative God and Bishop were
on display during the conference.
To God be the Glory!
*The Rev. Robert Andrews is the Conference Reporter for the
Chicago Annual Conference
6. ST, JAMES AME CHURCH, NEWARK, NEW JERSEY TO LAUNCH
STREAMING FOR MOBILE DEVICES:
The Saint James AME Church in Newark, NJ is pleased to
announce that our live streaming for mobile devices will launch this Saturday
night (December 24, 2011) for our Candlelight Worship at 7 p.m.
What does this mean? I am glad you asked!
If you currently use the IPhone, Android, Blackberry, any
smartphone or iPad, you can watch any worship service at Saint James from that
device. Simply go to our web site: www.stjamesame.org
and click on the "New Mobile Device Site" to watch any worship
experience at Saint James. Now you don't have to rush home or pull out your lap
top to watch worship services. You can simply use your cell phone or iPad to do
so.
Saint James AME Church invites you to watch us while sitting
in your car, eating lunch or dinner, walking, or while shopping. We praise God
for helping us "Take the World for Christ."
At Saint James we are bold enough to believe "The Best
in Christ Jesus is still yet to Come."
P.S. - All you need for Christmas are some headphones.
The Rev. Ronald L. Slaughter, pastor
7. NEW BEGINNINGS FOR A VENERABLE CHURCH – HISTORIC ST.
PAUL LOOKS TO THE FUTURE AFTER A MAJOR RENOVATION:
Article written by Meredith Ebbin
St. Paul AME Church, Hamilton, Bermuda
In the year of 2005, under the anointed leadership of the
Rt. Rev. Richard Franklin Norris, the Rev. Dr. Lanel D. Guyton was appointed as
the 32nd pastor of the church known as the “Cathedral of African
Methodism” on the island of Bermuda.
Upon arriving in Bermuda from the United States he realized
that he was stepping into an institution with a proud legacy.
St. Paul, located on the corner of Court and Victoria
Streets, Hamilton, is the cathedral of Bermuda’s AME Churches. It dates back to
1872, the year the cornerstone was laid. Its first service was held on New
Year’s Sunday, 1873. St. Paul was instrumental in the establishment in 1892 of
the island’s first black high school, the Bermuda Collegiate Institute, which
remained in existence for a decade.
Its illustrious membership has included trailblazers like
Hamilton businessman and parliamentarian Hilton Hill, physician Dr. Leon
Williams, educator Dame Marjorie Bean, the distinguished judge Dr. Earle Seaton
and his sister Ruth Seaton James, who was the first black person to run a
government department in Bermuda. Its long list of outstanding pastors, the
majority of them Americans, like Dr. Guyton includes Rev. Vernon R. Byrd,
(1959-1966) whose contribution during the turbulent 1960s was deemed so significant
he was awarded an MBE (Member of the British Empire), an honor usually granted
to British subjects. Rev. Clarence Crawford (1966-1970), former Presiding
Elder, First District; and Rev. Dr. Sylvester Beaman (1986-1993), current
candidate for Episcopal honors, and pastor of Bethel AME Church Wilmington,
Delaware.
By 2005, however, the year Dr. Guyton arrived to the island;
the sanctuary was in desperate need of repair. Trustee Edward Dyer says, “The
pews were falling apart. The termites were having a ball with them.” There were
a host of other problems, including a balcony that was so unstable some members
refused to mount its stairs. “The place just needed to be renovated,” said
Dyer.
Church trustees had long been aware of the need to renovate,
but other projects took precedence. The push came from Dr. Guyton, a native
Californian with a “can-do” attitude who found inspiration in both the church’s
legacy and the construction boom that was very much evidence in Hamilton.
It was a sign, he says, God had sent him to Bermuda for a
purpose. “Building cranes permeated the skyline,” he says. “That represented
revitalization. I saw St. Paul as a great AME church, with an incredible
history, an incredible congregation, primed for the next level.”
Construction did not get under way until 2009, but the
preparation was lengthy and laborious, with the 15- member board of trustees
overseeing the selection of an architect and a contractor as well as getting
the requisite approval from the Department of Planning.
The project took on biblical significance from the start,
because from 2006, services were held in the church owned Centennial Hall
adjacent to the sanctuary. St. Paul would be out of commission for five years.
The initial move had occurred because Dr. Guyton found Bermuda’s heat and
humidity over-bearing at times, and Centennial Hall, unlike the church, had
air- conditioning. No matter the cause, the congregation readily identified
with the story of the ancient Israelites wandering through the wilderness for forty
years, as they awaited their own promised land of a new sanctuary.
Renovations saw the original flooring retained, but the
termite ridden pews and the sagging balcony were ripped out and replaced.
"The original roof beams, now reinforced with steel, were exposed, giving
the sanctuary a cathedral like look and feeling," said Dr. Guyton.
Other improvements included features that comply with
modern-day planning requirements and twenty-first century desires: air
conditioning, wheel chair accessibility and theatre style lighting in the
ceiling. The stained glass windows were removed, cleaned and fitted with new
frames.
St. Paul now boasts performance-quality audiovisual
equipment, which includes a sound editing booth in the balcony and near the
front of the sanctuary, visual plasma screens, and a retractable screen for the
congregation. These digital features allow for transmission of notices,
scripture readings and live camera shots while the service is in progress. The
church is also investigating the possibility of having services streamed live
over the internet.
Historically, the proceeds for the original Casavant pipe
organ, was donated by prominent Reid Street East businessman James Dick
Richards in 1938. It was dedicated, along with the new bell at a service that
made the front page of the Bermuda Recorder newspaper in July 23 of that year.
The organ remained in use until 13 years ago, when it was dismantled and the
pipes were placed in storage overseas. Since then, organist and senior choir
director Cecil G. Smith has made do with a Roger’s organ.
A decision midway into the project to install a new organ
has transformed the look of the Choir loft. Installation of the new Rodgers
organ, which is both digital and pipe, was a painstaking process overseen by
organist Adrian Ridgeway, with assistance from overseas technicians out of
Boston, Massachusetts. Its 1,200 pipes, a quarter of them retained from the old
organ, were installed behind the altar where they frame the original stained
glass window. It was a tight, but perfect fit and has opened up and enhanced
the whole area.
The new organ and audio/lighting system has given the church
a new source of revenue: Concert performances. Ridgeway describes the St. Paul
AME organ as “a great instrument that combines the best of both technologies,
digital and pipe. This is probably one of the most versatile in Bermuda.
One of St. Paul newest features is the center aisle, which
will find more favor with brides than the former two aisle layout. There were
external upgrades as well; changes in aesthetics, landscaping and wheelchair –
accessibility. Another improvement has seen Centennial Hall connected to the
sanctuary. The church bell which had long been out of service now rings every Sunday.
A state of the art, child care center leases the renovated lower level.
The $3 million dollar renovations project were overseen by
the architectural firm Entasis and carried out by DeCosta Construction Company.
Ed Dyer served as site manager of the renovations on behalf of the church.
Members of the board of Trustees serving on the building and renovations
committee were Dr. Guyton, Chair; Ed Dyer, site-manager; Ianthia Welch, Thelma
Trott, Stephen Clarke, Edwena Smith, and Clyde Wilson. Dr. Guyton praised the
committee saying, “They brought a wealth of talent, skills, ideas and
creativity to the table.”
Construction lasted through much of this year, and prior to
the start of the first service in the renovated church on Sunday, September 4,
2011. The Rev. Betty Furbert Woolridge, esteemed Presiding Elder of the
East- West Districts of the Bermuda Annual Conference was joined by First Lady,
Tanzania Guyton, and her spouse, Edward Woolridge as she marked the milestone
by leading in the tree planting ceremony.
Churches are notorious for controversy and conflict, but by
all accounts there was little dissension during St. Paul’s renovation project.
Dr. Guyton said that by blending the contemporary with the traditional, the
church is appealing to all members, as well as building a bridge to the future.
He says the “real miracle” was that the construction was started and completed
in the midst of a world recession.
The members of St. Paul AME Church wishes to thank Bishop
Richard and Mother Mary Ann Norris for sterling leadership, during their
tenure. Bishop Norris, throughout the entire process kept an open door policy
with the Dr. Guyton and members of the Trustee Board, and eventually celebrated
with us, the final completion of our church. The church was dedication on
February 28, 2011 by Bishop Norris, with Mother Norris and a host of
Government, Clergy, and special guests in attendance.
Since the beginning of Dr. Guyton’s tenure which started in
June of 2005, St. Paul has seen a complete modernization of its total
infrastructure. In 2006, the Centennial Hall underwent renovations, and the
church parsonage was constructed, finishing in 2007. St. Paul has seen
renovations of at least $5 million dollars combined in six years, made possible
only by the hand of God. We give praises and honor to Bishop Norris (true
visionary) our Pastor, board of Trustees, and members of our church who
supported the work and the will of God.
8. A BIOGRAPHICAL ESSAY ON THE LIFE OF PETER ALLEN, THE
SON OF RICHARD ALLEN"
By Stephen Taylor
Peter Allen, (circa 1805-1836) was a free black who
participated in the Texas Revolution. He was among the troops under the command
of Colonel James Walker Fannin, who surrendered at Goliad and subsequently
executed on Palm Sunday, March 27, 1836.
Born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, circa 1805, Peter Allen
was the son of Richard Allen (1760-1831), founder and first consecrated bishop
of the African Methodist Episcopal Church, and his wife, Sarah Bass
(1764-1849).
Richard Allen was born a slave into the household of
Benjamin Chew, Attorney General of the State of Pennsylvania, but purchased his
freedom on August 27, 1783, and went on to become one of the preeminent black
leaders in Colonial America. An accomplished writer, Richard Allen published
books, tracts, and sermons, while serving as a minister and educator up until
the time of his death in Philadelphia on March 26, 1831. His wife, Sarah Bass,
who was born into slavery in Isle of Wight, Virginia, in 1764, came to
Philadelphia as a slave at the age of eight, obtained her freedom prior to
marrying Richard Allen on March 11, 1801, and was active in reform activities
up until the time of her death in Philadelphia on July 16, 1849.
In 1835 Peter Allen removed from the secure environs of
Philadelphia, a city whose entire black population of approximately 15,000 was
free. He moved to Huntsville, Alabama, where only one percent of the state’s
black population enjoyed freedom.
The reasons for his emigration are unclear; however, it was
an extraordinary move considering the threat of seizure and sale into slavery
for any free black from the north venturing into the Deep South. That danger
became more poignant with his marriage shortly after his arrival in Huntsville
to an enslaved woman, Mary (circa 1807-1885). Despite the inherent danger, the
events that unfolded in October 1835 suggest Peter Allen had, at the very
least, gained tacit acceptance by the white community in Huntsville.
Beginning in late October 1835, appeals were published in
several Alabama newspapers, including the Huntsville Southern Advocate,
urging Alabamians to come to the aid of their “brothers in Texas.”
On the night of October 31, 1835, an organizational meeting
was held in Huntsville, and a volunteer company formed by Captain Peyton S.
Wyatt.
Although Peter Allen was a free black who had only recently
arrived in the city, Peter Allen, a flutist, was welcomed into the company as a
musician as it departed Huntsville on Sunday, November 8, 1835.
A steamboat transported the twenty volunteers, including
Peter Allen, down the Tennessee River and into the Ohio River before stopping
at Paducah, Kentucky, for two days. There, Peter Allen and his small group of
volunteers marched through the streets playing music, making speeches, and
exhorting the local men to join them before continuing their journey down the
Mississippi to Natchez and overland to Nacogdoches.
Arriving in Texas in early December, Wyatt’s company was
mustered into service on December 25, 1835. On January 12, 1836, they were
dispatched to Goliad and then joined the volunteers at Refugio about January
22, 1836. With Wyatt on furlough, the Huntsville volunteers were commanded by
Lieutenant B. T. Bradford and participated in the Battle of Coleto Creek under
Fannin before their surrender on March 20, 1836, and imprisonment at Goliad.
The night before the massacre, Captain Jack Shackelford,
commander of the Alabama Red Rovers, recalled that the musicians of the troop,
which would have included Peter Allen, played the tune Home Sweet Home on their
flutes as tears “rolled down many a manly cheek.”
The next morning, Palm Sunday, March 27, 1836, the men were
awakened at dawn by their Mexican guards, split into four divisions and marched
outside the fort, each group proceeding in a different direction. Some minutes
later, Shackelford heard shots and the screams of men as they were being
executed.
Later that day, the mangled corpses of his comrades were
burned by the Mexicans.
Peter Allen’s siblings in Philadelphia, John Allen, Sarah
Wilkins, and Mary Adams, claiming to be his only heirs, obtained title to 4,036
acres of land in Texas as a result of Peter’s service. When Peter’s wife, Mary,
proved her marriage and filed a claim as well, the Philadelphia heirs objected
and a protracted court battle ensued that ended in the Texas Supreme Court.
Mary Allen’s claim was confirmed by the Texas Supreme Court, and the suit to
deny her claim by the Philadelphia heirs was dismissed.
Peter’s widow, Mary, lived the remainder of her life in
Huntsville, Alabama, and died in that city on June 23, 1885. Her second
husband, John Cook, preceded her in death.
Mary’s obituary recounted Peter’s service in the Texas
Revolution and his refusal to save his own life when offered his freedom in
return for again playing “Home Sweet Home,” this time at the request of the
Mexican commander.
The Huntsville Independent recalled Peter Allen’s
determination to remain with his comrades and share their fate when he replied
to the Mexican commander, “No, I’ll not play, but I’ll just go along with the
rest of the boys.”
Editor’s Note: The Rev. Mark Tyler, pastor of Mother
Bethel AME Church shared this article, written by Peter Taylor, who gave permission
for TCR to print this article.
9. A BRIGHT NEW FUTURE FOR THE TEAM TYLER DISTRICT AME
CHURCH:
By: Delanda S. Johnson
Special to the News
On Saturday, December 10th at Ward Chapel AME Church in
Marshall, Texas the Team Tyler District held its Planning Meeting to set new
schedules for the new Conference Year 2011-2012.
The meeting was called to order by Presiding Elder Darrell
G. Caldwell, Sr. and Sis. Annette Caldwell. In a statement, Presiding
Elder Caldwell stated, “The excitement of a New Year to serve the Team Tyler
District fills my heart. I’m confident that as we work together with the
leading of the Holy Spirit much will be accomplished in God’s Kingdom.”
In attendance at this meeting were representatives from
Malakoff, Palestine, Tyler, Texarkana, Dallas, etc., with the meeting taking
care of old and new business.
Business conducted at this meeting consisted of the District
calendar review, financial responsibility overview, appointments and elections
of District Officers, and plans for the Tyler District Stewardship Initiatives.
With the election of District Officers, this reporter
(Delanda S. Johnson) kept the position of Tyler District Reporter and was
elected to the Ways & Means Committee along with Rev. I. B. Wells, Jr., who
is the Pastor of Johnson Chapel AME Church in Malakoff, Texas.
With the business out of the way, it was time for the
worship service which was called to order by Worship Leader, Rev. Reginald J.
Houston.
The sermon was brought forth by Rev. Ray Charles Emanuel,
Pastor of Rice Chapel AME Church in Dallas, Texas.
Rev. Emanuel subject “Promise” which scripture came from
Genesis 15: 1-5 focused on the promises that we make and the promises that God
makes to us.
Emanuel stated that we make promises 24/7, but we never do
anything about them. “Promises are made, broken, and forgotten; these are
the misdoing of people and churches, but they are not kept. If you make a
promise, you must keep your word. God will keep His promise to man, the
Promise of Eternal Life,” said Emanuel.
Emanuel told the congregation three points in keeping your
promise. They are to be firm, be focus, and be truthful. Emanuel
compared some of us as being a minnow Christian. This means that you are
not willing to step out on faith. Emanuel expressed that when
God makes a promise, He doesn’t take it back…all you need to do is just wait on
the Lord; we must not look down, but have faith and look up.
“God promised Abraham that He would bless him; for Abraham,
God promised Him a new nation (land), however, you must leave your kin and go
on my promise to you. We as a people must always remember that God
promised never to leave us alone. NO NEVER ALONE!!! NO NEVER ALONE!!!”
said Emanuel.
10. PAUL QUINN COLLEGE
RELEASES “WE ARE NOT TRASH” MINI DOCUMENTARY:
Paul Quinn College is continuing its
efforts to raise awareness of south Dallas’ food desert issue with the release
of a mini-documentary, “We Are Not Trash.” The
documentary, released last week on YouTube, details efforts of students
and alumni of Paul Quinn to heighten awareness of inaccessible grocery options
in the region, while working against a landfill expansion plan in the same
area.
Click link below to see the mini-Documentary:
11. CONGRATULATIONS TO THE
NEW OFFICERS OF THE AME MINISTERIAL ALLIANCE OF MEMPHIS AND VICINITY:
*The Rev. I. W. Booker
- President - the Rev. Agnes
Henderson, pastor of New Allen AMEC
- Vice-President - the Rev.
Darrell Scott, pastor of Wilson Chapel AMEC
- Treasurer- the Rev. Dave
Adams, pastor of St. Mark AMEC, Munford
- Assistant Treasurer- the
Rev. William Smith, pastor of Mt. Sinai AMEC, Arlington
- Recording Secretary- the
Rev. Harlan White, North Memphis District
- Assistant Secretary- the
Rev. Elizabeth Shaw, associate at Providence AMEC
- Correspondence Secretary-
the Rev. Patsy T. Brown, associate at Mt. Olive AMEC, Millington
- Parliamentarian- the Rev.
Willie M. Williams, pastor of Providence AMEC
- Worship Leader- the Rev.
Barbara Green, pastor of Bethel AMEC, Memphis
- Assistant Worship Leader-
the Rev. Eugene Brooks, associate at Greenwood AMEC, Arlington
*The Rev. I. W. Booker is the
editor of The AME Connection (West Tennessee Annual Conference),
"Connecting Ministry One Saint at a Time."
The 7th Episcopal District Candidates Forum -
January 14, 2012 at Allen University (Additional information and Flyer
attached)
12. THE SEVENTH EPISCOPAL
DISTRICT LAY ORGANIZATION WILL SPONSOR A CANDIDATES’ FORUM:
The Seventh Episcopal
District Lay Organization will sponsor a Candidates’ Forum during its annual
retreat on January 14, 2012 at Allen University in Columbia, South
Carolina. All candidates for Bishop and other offices are invited to
attend and be a part of the 7th Episcopal District’s Candidates’
Forum.
**Submitted by Ms. Regina F.
Jones, Seventh Episcopal District Corresponding Secretary
13. THE ALLEN TEMPLE AME
CHURCH IN LAKE WALES, FLORIDA HELD ITS 1ST QUARTERLY CONFERENCE:
The meeting of the 1st Quarterly
Conference at Allen Temple AME Church located in Lake Wales, Florida was called
to order by the Reverend Herbert Hollingsworth. Licentiate Phyllis
Johnson led us with the hymn “Blessed Assurance” and a scripture was read by
the Reverend Doris Simmons.
The Reverend Hollingsworth
presented the Presiding Elder, the Rev. F. Bernard Lemon to the
congregation. The Presiding Elder called for the motion for the Secretary
to the 1st Quarterly Conference. Sister Helen Williams was nominated for
secretary by Sister Ethel Mussington and seconded by Sister Marilyn
Smith. The motion was carried with everyone present in favor of the
motion. He also called for a reporter for the 1st quarterly
conference. Sister Renee Thompson nominated Sister Wanda Howard and was
seconded by Sister Ethel Mussington.
The 34 questions were read by
Sister Laurastine Lemon and answered by Sister Helen Williams. The
Presiding Elder sung a hymn because there has not been a death in this 1st
quarterly conference. There were 3 reporters read as following:
The Steward Board report was
read by Sister Barbara Edwards. The motion to adopt the report was made by
Sister Marilyn Smith and seconded by Brother Johnnie Hawkins, Sr. with the
motion properly carried. Presiding Elder Lemon asked the Stewards to come
forward to be confirmed. There were 4 people to stand in the place for
the Stewards who were absent. The Stewards absent were: Brother Nelson,
Brother Ream, Brother Herring, and Sister Lawanna Simmons. Sister Helen
Johnson is in a nursing home. The Presiding Elder made it clear that the
Stewards were reappointment by the Pastor for one year. The Presiding
Elder also confirmed the Stewards for the 2011-2012 Annual Conference
year. Every Steward present received a hand shake of congratulations from
the Presiding Elder. He also gave his blessing to all of the Stewards. He
stated that he stands available to help in any way."
The Trustees Board report was
read by Sister Ethel Mussington. Every Trustee was present except for
Sister Lillian Peterson and Sister Parrie Link. The Presiding Elder had a
question concerning the upkeep of the church and was told that Brother Michael
Smith does the yard and Brother Aaron Brunson receives a salary for the
janitorial service. The motion to accept the Trustees Board report was
made by Sister Juanita Hayes and was seconded by Sister Carolyn Robinson.
The motion was carried with all in favor of accepting the Trustees Board’s
report.
The Presiding Elder stated,
“The Missionary Society was Sister Laurastine Lemon’s baby.” The
Missionary Society report was read by Sister Carolyn Robinson. The motion
to adopt the report was made by Sister R. J. Iles and was seconded by Sister
Velma Henry. The motion was carried.
Those were the 3 reports read
by the members of Allen Temple AME Church. Sister Laurastine Lemon
acknowledged receipt of the following reports: Daniel Hill Lay Organization,
Lee’s Chorus, the Mass Choir, Usher Board #2, Y.P.D., Stewardess, Youth Usher
Board, Usher Board #1, Board of Christian Education, Church School, Young Adult
Usher Board and Cleare Voices of Praise.
Presiding Elder Lemon called
for the Memorial of Deaconess Girlvester Hawkins and Brother David Wilson, Jr.
a steward. A candle was lit and extinguished for both
members. Brother Albert Hawkins, Sr. spoke on the behalf of the Hawkins’
family concerning Mother Girlvester Hawkins. Brother Hawkins stated his
mother served this church for about 80 years coming from Moorehaven, Florida.
Brother David Smith, Sr. and Sister Doris Wilson spoke on the behalf of Brother
David Wilson, Jr. Brother Smith mentioned that Brother Wilson was a longtime
resident of Lake Wales, Florida. He also mentioned that Brother Wilson
served on the Steward Board, sung with the Sons of Allen Choir and was
dedicated to his church, as well as being missed; a bow was placed in the
places where he sat in the church as well as for Mother Hawkins. Sister
Doris Wilson mentioned that she and Brother Wilson would have been married for
61 years this year. She also mentioned that there were 5 children, 8
grandchildren, 5 great grandchildren and 1 on the way.
Presiding Elder Lemon stated,
“He was grateful to the kind words by each presenter”. He also led a
song, “If you hear of my home going don’t worry about me, I am just another
soldier gone home, to God be the Glory.”
The Presiding Elder asked if
there were any questions for the good of the order.
The Reverend Doris Simmons
came forward and presented the Presiding Elder with a gift. She wished
the Presiding Elder and his wife Happy Holidays from the Reverend & Mrs.
Hollingsworth and the entire Allen Temple Church family.
Sister R. J. Iles mentioned
that we have a definite plan to pay off our mortgage by having each member pay
a dollar a day starting this month. She also asked the Presiding Elder
and his wife to participate in this plan. The Presiding Elder stated that
Sister Laurastine Lemon and he plans to commit to this plan by giving $500.00
in the month of February 2012.
Sister Ethel Mussington
commented that we had a State Rally put on by Sister Susie Hollingsworth for
each member to pay $100.00 toward the 50 states in the United States. She
also mentioned that Mother Hawkins played music for the Church School in a
wheelchair.
Sister Angeline Hawkins
mentioned how pleased we were to have our pastor, his wife and children.
She also stated, “We have had better attendance and we are glad to have the
first family; we had an old-fashioned Love Feast when the pastor and his wife
came and we can’t wait until we have the next Love Feast. She also stated that
the pastor, his wife, son, daughter and goddaughter has brought us a new
spirit.”
Presiding Elder Lemon also
wants the remarks to be recorded in the minutes. Presiding Elder Lemons
gave way for Sister Laurastine Lemon to give the announcements. Sister
Laurastine Lemon said, “Thank you for the welcome of the pastor & his wife.
It is meaningful to receive them with love. The best is yet to
come”. The announcements were as following:
- Day of Sharing with the
West Coast & Central Conference will have a service at Greater Allen Chapel
in Melbourne, Florida Saturday, December 10, 2011 at 11:00 am for Widows,
Ordained local Elders and Deaconess.
- Saturday, January 21, 2012
District Stewards & Trustees Training 9 a.m. to 12 noon New Bethel AME
Church, Lakeland, Florida.
- Sunday, January 22, 2012
Commitment Service New Bethel AME Church Lakeland, Florida
- Tuesday & Wednesday,
February 7th & 8th 2012 District Conference Greater
Mt. Zion AME Church Sebring, Florida.
The Presiding Elder asked
first Lady Susie Hollingsworth to say a few words. Sister Susie
Hollingsworth greeted the Presiding Elder and his wife. She mentioned it was
good to be here, acknowledged the acts of kindness and love, as well as she was
looking forward to serving. She also mentioned the pastor would be
posting his office hours in the bulletin.
Final remarks and dismissal
was made by the Reverend Hollingsworth. He mentioned that there was an article
in The Christian Recorder dated November 24, 2011 about pastoral
leadership during the worship service.” He wants everybody to read the
article.
The pastor’s closing words were
“May the Grace of Our Lord and Jesus Christ Rest, Rule and Abide with You.”
Bishop McKinley Young is the
Presiding Prelate of the 11th Episcopal District of the AME Church;
the Reverend F. Bernard Lemon, Presiding Elder; and the Reverend Herbert Hollingsworth,
pastor.
Wanda Howard, Reporter, Allen
Temple AME Church, Lake Wales, Florida
14. PEOPLE WHO ARE ACTIVE
IN RELIGIOUS ORGANIZATIONS ARE MORE INVOLVED WITH CIVIC AND OTHER
ORGANIZATIONS:
Those who are active in
religious organizations are more involved with all kinds of civic and other
organizations, devote more time to organizational activities, and think more
highly of their communities and their fellow citizens
The religiously active are
just as likely to be technology users as other Americans and they say their
tech use helps their involvement with groups
WASHINGTON – Some 40% of
Americans are active in a church, religious, or spiritual organization.
Compared with those who are not involved with such organizations, religiously
active Americans are more trusting of others, are more optimistic about their
impact on their community, think more highly of their community, are more
involved in more organizations of all kinds, and devote more time to the groups
to which they are active.
A survey by the Pew Research
Center’s Internet & American Life Project asked people about their
membership in 28 different kinds of organizations and clubs. Religious and
spiritual organizations topped the list and those who were active in such
groups were more active in all kinds of groups. The average number of groups
that religiously active Americans are active in is 5.61, and those who are not
involved with religious groups participate in 2.11 groups.
Those who are active in
religious groups spend an average of 7.5 of hours per week in group activities
compared with 5.4 hours for those not active in a religious group.
When it comes to their
technology profile, Americans who are members of religious groups are just as
likely as others to use the internet, have broadband at home, use cell phones,
use text messaging, and use social networking sites and Twitter.
In the Pew Internet Project
survey respondents were asked about their involvement with groups and
organizations; their views about other people and the organizations to which
they belong, their feelings about their communities; and their use of different
technologies. Some of the main findings:
- 53% of religiously active
Americans believe that other people are generally trustworthy, compared with
43% of those not involved with religious groups
- 45% view their community as
an excellent place to live, compared with 34% of those not active with
religious groups
- 38% of religiously active
Americans believe that they can have a major impact on their communities,
compared with 27% of those not active with religious groups
In many types of groups, the
religiously active are involved in considerable numbers and at percentages
substantially higher than the non-religious. For example:
- 35% are active in sports or
recreation leagues for themselves or for their children (versus - 17% for the
non-religious).
- 34% are active in
charitable or volunteer organizations such as Habitat for Humanity or the Humane
Society (versus 15% for the non-religious).
- 30% are active in community
groups or neighborhood associations (versus 11% for the non-religious).
Asked about their technology
usage:
- 79% of Americans who are
active in religious groups are internet users, compared with -- - 75% of those
not involved with religious groups
- 86% of Americans who are
active in religious groups are cell phone users, compared with - 80% of those
not involved with religious groups
- 75% of religiously active
Americans are email users, compared with 68% of those who
are
not
involved with religious groups.
- 46% of these religiously
active Americans use social networking sites such as Facebook, compared with
49% of those who are not involved with religious groups.
- 9% of these religiously
active Americans use Twitter, compared with 10% of those not involved with
religious groups
“Some analysts have been
concerned that those who have active spiritual lives might not be as engaged
with the secular world,” noted Jim Jansen, a Senior Fellow at the Pew Internet
Project and author of a report on the findings. “We see the opposite. Those who
are religiously active are more likely to participate in all kinds of groups
and more likely to feel good about their communities. Those who are active in
religious groups seem to be joiners. They also are active users of technology.”
The results in this report
are based on data from telephone interviews conducted by Princeton Survey
Research Associates International among a sample of 2,303 adults, age 18 and
older. Telephone interviews were conducted in English and Spanish by
landline (1,555) and cell phone (748, including 310 without a landline phone).
For results based on the total sample, one can say with 95% confidence that the
error attributable to sampling is plus or minus 2.3 percentage points.
For results based on internet users (n=1,811), the margin of sampling error is
plus or minus 2.6 percentage points.
About the Pew Research
Center’s Internet & American Life Project
The Pew Research Center’s
Internet & American Life Project is one of seven projects that make up the
Pew Research Center, a nonpartisan, nonprofit "fact tank" that
provides information on the issues, attitudes and trends shaping America and
the world. The Project produces reports exploring the impact of the internet on
families, communities, work and home, daily life, education, health care, and
civic and political life. The Project aims to be an authoritative source on the
evolution of the internet through surveys that examine how Americans use the
internet and how their activities affect their lives.
Media Contact: Jim
Jansen, jjansen@pewinternet.org;
telephone: 434-249-8687
15. MID-WEEK MEDITATION BASED ON LUKE 2:1-20:
*The Rev. Dr. Joseph A. Darby
The elements of the Christmas
story that we hear this time of year are familiar - the announcement by an
angel to Mary and Joseph, their trip from Nazareth to Bethlehem, the birth of
Jesus in what we’d call a barn today, the announcement of His birth to the
shepherds and the wise visitors from the east who came to worship the Christ
child.
The elements of the story are
familiar, but one thing in particular always sticks out in my mind - the Christ
was born in a barn because no one in Bethlehem made room for a young carpenter
of modest means and his very pregnant wife. They traveled to Bethlehem,
the hometown of their ancestors, to be counted in a census. The many
descendants of King David consumed the resources and accommodations of that
small town, with the best lodging probably going to the more affluent and
influential.
Had those in Bethlehem known
the identity of that special child, they’d have gladly made room. Joseph
and Mary would probably have been put in Bethlehem’s equivalent of a hotel
suite, and those who arranged accommodations would have taken pride in their
doing so and talked about it for the rest of their lives, but no one made room
for Jesus.
We can’t be too critical of
the citizens of Bethlehem. The Christmas season is a whirlwind of activity
for most of us - we fight crowds and traffic to buy gifts, plan Christmas
dinners and parties, put up decorations, get our Christmas cards in the mail
and work hard to see that our Christmas is merry. It’s easy in the midst
of those things that demand our attention to make no room on our agendas for
the Christ who is, as the modern saying goes, “the reason for the season.”
Enjoy your Christmas, but
take the time - at Christmastime and every day - to reflect on and give thanks
for the blessings that are ours because of Jesus the Christ. When we do
so, then the demands of life are easier to handle and the stresses of life
won’t be as severe. We can slow down in the midst of our busy lives,
realize that we have a right relationship with God because of Christ our
Savior, find encouragement to face life’s journey and fully appreciate why one
writer said, “He rules the world with truth and grace, and makes the nations
prove the glories of His righteousness and wonders of His love.”
If you are in the Charleston,
South Carolina area this weekend, join us for worship on Christmas Day at 10
a.m. The Combined Choir, Mime Ministry and Young Adult Choir will offer
praise.
Sunday’s Scripture Lessons
are:
Isaiah 9:2-7
Hebrews 1:1-9
Luke 2:1-14
Sunday’s Sermons is:
“Celebrate God’s Gift”
Have a great week and a Very
Merry Christmas!
*The Rev. Dr. Joseph A. Darby
is the pastor of Morris Brown AME Church in Charleston, South Carolina
16. CLERGY FAMILY
CONGRATULATORY ANNOUNCEMENTS:
- Retirement Celebration
Banquet Honoring Bishop C. Garnett and Supervisor Ernestine Lee Henning
The African Methodist
Episcopal Church The Third Episcopal District Announces a Retirement
Celebration Banquet Honoring Bishop C. Garnett and Supervisor Ernestine Lee
Henning Celebrating Fifty-Eight Years of Ministry of the Visionary, Social
Activist, Organizer, Minister and Bishop, the Right Reverend Cornal Garnett
Henning, Sr., Presiding Prelate, 3rd Episcopal District on Friday,
March 30, 2012 at 6:30 p.m. at the Renaissance Columbus Downtown Hotel, 50
North 3rd Street in Columbus, Ohio.
- Brother Ainsley M.
Byfield and Presiding Elder Anne Henning Byfield to Celebrate 35th
Wedding Anniversary
Brother Ainsley M. Byfield
and Presiding Elder Anne Henning Byfield, North District, Indiana Annual
Conference of the 4th Episcopal District, will celebrate their 35th
Wedding Anniversary on December 24, 2011, Christmas Eve in Indianapolis,
Indiana.
Congratulatory messages may
be emailed to: ahenningbyfieldforbishop@gmail.com
- Former Presiding Elder
and Mrs. Barrington S. Lawrence of the 16th Episcopal District will Celebrate
their 25th Wedding Anniversary
Former Presiding Elder
Barrington S. Lawrence and his wife Winifee P.A. Charles-Lawrence of the 16th
Episcopal District, Jamaica Conference will celebrate their 25th Wedding
Anniversary on December 20, 2011. Mrs. Winifee P.A. Charles-Lawrence is the
Immediate Past President of the 16th Episcopal District Women's
Missionary Society (WMS).
Congratulatory messages may
be emailed to: winifee@yahoo.com
Or by telephone: 876-484-3900
- Mrs. Starr L. Battle the
Connectional Lay Organization Corresponding Secretary received the Master of
Arts Degree in History from North Carolina Central University
The Connectional Lay
Organization Corresponding Secretary Mrs. Starr Battle graduated Saturday,
December 10th with a Master of Arts degree in history from North Carolina
Central University, Durham, North Carolina. Her thesis was “Lest we
forget: The history of Kittrell College, 1886-1976.”
Mrs. Starr Battle is the
daughter of the Rev. Milton and Doris Battle of Clover Garden AME Church in
Burlington, North Carolina (2nd Episcopal District).
Congratulatory messages can
be emailed to: starrbattle@netscape.net
17. EPISCOPAL FAMILY
BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
The Passing of the Grandson
of retired Bishop Z.L. Grady
We regret to announce the
death of Baby Stephen Edward Grady on December 8, 2011. Baby Stephen
Edward is the son of the Rev. and Mrs. Carey Andrew and India Grady, pastor and
First Lady of Bethel AME Church, Indianapolis, Indiana.
He is the grandson of Bishop and
Mrs. Z. L and Mother C.R. Grady of Charleston, South Carolina and Mr. and Mrs.
Michael Clemons of Springfield, Illinois; the nephew of Felita Grady Davis, of
Columbia South Carolina; Ms. Laurie Clemons of Springfield, Illinois; Mr.
Kenneth Woodberry Esq. and Constance Grady-Woodberry of Chicago, Illinois; and
Mr. Michael Clemons of Springfield, Illinois. He is the cousin of Miss
Cara Leigh Davis, Isaiah Clemons, Kendall Woodberry and Zachary-Andrew
Woodberry and Roman Josiah Woodberry.
A private Memorial Service
was held on December 17, 2011. Please continue to pray for the recovery
of First Lady India Grady.
Condolences may be sent to:
Please remember the family in
your prayers.
18. CLERGY FAMILY
BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
We regret to announce the
passing of Mrs. Mignon Carr, the mother of the Rev. Cindy Carr, pastor of
Bethel AMEC in Reading, Pennsylvania (Philadelphia Conference, South District).
The following information has been provided regarding funeral arrangements.
The funeral has been held.
Viewing - 9:00 a.m. - 10:00
a.m.
Funeral - 10:00 a.m.
Christ Episcopal Church
422 Main Street
East Orange, New Jersey 07017
Phone: 973-678-1160
Fax: 973-678-8777
The Rev. Joseph Harmon,
Rector
Expressions of Sympathy can
be sent to:
The Rev. Cindy Carr
1604 Concord Road
Wyomissing, PA 19610
19. CLERGY FAMILY
BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
We are saddened by the death
of Mrs. Lizzie Wildschutt. She was the last sister of the Rev. Henry J. Legolie
(Retired Presiding Elder) and the mother of the Rev. Katkleen Forbes, assistant
pastor of Gow Chapel, Kraaifontein South Africa. Her grandson, the Rev. Angelo
Forbes is the pastor of Trinity AME Church in Touws River.
Her burial will be on
Saturday, 24 December from the Apostolic Faith Mission Church in Kraaifontein.
Condolences and expressions
of sympathy can be emailed to the Legolie family via: William.Legolie@gmail.com or vaame@mweb.co.za
Submitted by the Rev. William
C. Legolie, II, 67 Tennyson Road, Windsor Park, Kraaifontein
20. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT
NOTICE:
We regret to inform you of
the passing of Mrs. Robbie Mae Keys, the mother of the Rev. Larry Keys, pastor
of New Mt. Olive A.M.E. Church in Avon Park, Florida.
Service Arrangements for Mrs.
Robbie Mae Keys
Viewing: Friday, December 23,
2011 - 5 p.m.-7 p.m.
Gause Funeral Home
625 S. Holland Pkwy
Bartow, FL 33830
863-533-9084
The Keys Family will receive
family and friends after the viewing at:
Cathernel Ball
5416 Orange Valley Dr.
Lakeland, FL 33813
Homegoing Celebration:
Saturday, December 24, 2011 -
11:00 am
Mt. Olive Missionary Baptist
Church
155 Church Avenue
Bradley, FL 33835
Phone: 863-428-2209
Services entrusted to:
Gause Funeral Home
625 S. Holland Pkwy
Bartow, FL 33830
Phone: 863-533-9084
21. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT
NOTICE:
We regret to inform you of
the passing of Mr. Charles Carr, the brother of the Reverend Jeff F. Carr and
brother-in-law of Mrs. Patricia Carr of the 12th Episcopal District. Mr.
Charles Carr passed this morning, 12/21.
Service arrangements for
Charles Carr:
Celebrating of Life: Monday,
December 26, 2011 at 10:00 a.m.
Willis Funeral Home
101 Park Street
McGehee, AR 71654
Telephone: (870) 222-4600
FAX: (870) 222-4600
Communications and
expressions of sympathy may be sent to:
The Rev. and Mrs. Jeff F.
Carr & Family
10 Bear Trail Cove
Little Rock, AR 72210
(870) 772-5366
22. CLERGY FAMILY
BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
We regret to announce the
passing of Herbert G. Lemmons, on December 17, 2011. Brother Lemmons is
the father of Presiding Elder H. Michael Lemmons, North District, Michigan
Annual Conference and Reverend Keith Lemmons. He is also the
father-in-law of Anita R. Lemmons, President of 4th Episcopal District M-SWAWO
Plus PK's. Brother Herbert G. Lemmons was a steward emeritus at Ebenezer AME
Church in Detroit and served as president of the Men's Usher Board for 16
years. He also served as a class leader and was a faithful superintendent
and member of the Sunday School.
Services for Brother Herbert
G. Lemmons
Viewing: Thursday, December
22, 2011, 3:00-8:00 p.m.
O. H. Pye, III Funeral Home
17600 Plymouth Road
Detroit, Michigan 48227
(313) 838-9770 - Fax (313)
838-9827
Condolences may be sent via
website at: www.pyefuneralhome.com
Service to be held at:
Ebenezer AME Church
5151 W. Chicago Blvd. (at
Grand River)
Detroit, Michigan 48204
Family Hour: Friday, December
23, 2011 10:30 a.m.
Funeral: 11:00 a.m.
The Reverend Byron C. Moore,
Pastor
Bishop John R. Bryant,
Presiding Prelate
4th Episcopal District
Expressions of sympathy may
be sent to:
Or
Presiding Elder H. Michael
Lemmons
17491 Mount Vernon
Southfield, Michigan 48075
(248) 557-2788
23. CLERGY FAMILY
BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
We are saddened to inform you
of the passing of Dorothy Margaret Kindred, the Widow of Pastor Isaac Kindred,
Sr., of the Fourth Episcopal District. They served together faithful in the
Canadian, Michigan & Chicago Conferences for over 30 years. Dorothy Margaret
Kindred transitioned on December 16, 2011.
Services for Dorothy Margaret
Kindred:
Thursday, December 22, 2011
Family Hour: 6:00 pm to 8:00
pm
Canaan AME Church
801 S. 14th Avenue
Maywood, Illinois 60153
Friday, December 23, 2011
Worship Service: 10:00 am
Canaan AME Church
801 S. 14th Avenue
Maywood, Illinois 60153
Dr. C. Calvin Rice, Pastor
(708) 681-9448 - Phone
Worship will be followed by
interment and a repast.
Professional services are
provided by:
Johnson-Miller Funeral Chapel
4000 Saint Charles Road
Bellwood, IL 60104-1133
Telephone: (708) 544-4100
FAX: (708) 544-4621
Condolences may be sent to
her family:
Family of Dorothy Margaret
Kindred
Attn: Vicki Kindred Meredith
732 Knoch Knolls Road
Naperville, Illinois 60565
Phone: (708) 903-9510
Condolences may also be
emailed to: supermomof3@ameritech.net
24. CLERGY FAMILY
BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
We regret to announce the
passing of Brother Gus Cartledge, the husband of Mrs. Edith Cartledge, the
Connectional Director of Lay Activities. The following information has been
provided regarding funeral arrangements.
Viewing and Funeral Service
in New York: Tuesday, December 20, 2011
Viewing - 5:30-7:30 p.m.
Funeral - 7:00 p.m.
First AME Bethel Church
60 West 132nd Street
New York, NY 10037
Phone: 212-862-0100
Fax: 212-694-1323
The Rev. Henry A. Belin, III,
Pastor
Viewing and Funeral Service
in South Carolina: Saturday, December 24, 2011
Viewing - 9:00 a.m. - 11:00
a.m.
Funeral - 11:00 a.m.
Mount Lebanon Baptist Church
134 Mount Lebanon Church Road
Parksville, SC 29844
Phone: 864-333-2310
The Rev. W. F. Hampton,
Pastor
Professional Care entrusted
to:
Owens Funeral Home
1707 Reeves Branch Road
Branchville, South Carolina
29432
Phone: 803-274-8865
Fax: 803-274-8814
Expressions of Sympathy can
be sent to:
Mrs. Edith Cartledge
1072 Findlay Avenue, Apt. 1
Bronx, NY 10456
25. CLERGY FAMILY
BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
Your prayers are solicited
for the Reverend Mila P. Cooper, co-Pastor of St. James AME Church in
Cleveland, Ohio; and for her family.
We are saddened to announce
the passing of Mr. Eugene Perry, the father of the Reverend Mila P.
Cooper. He passed away in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania on Monday, December
12th and Gwendolyn Ruth Galloway, the aunt of the Reverend Mila Cooper (her
dad's sister) passed away this morning, December 16th. A private
remembrance and gathering was held for Mr. Perry in Philadelphia and services
for Gwendolyn Ruth Galloway will be held next week.
Expressions of sympathy can
be sent to:
The Rev. Mila P. Cooper &
family
11108 Reservoir Place Drive
Cleveland, Ohio 44104
Email expressions can be sent
to: mpc4dst@yahoo.com
26. CLERGY FAMILY
BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
We regret to make the
following bereavement report on behalf of Lieutenant Nancy Reese, U. S. Navy,
Chaplain Corps:
Report
LT Nancy Reese, CHC, USN
Duty Station: CREDO Region
Southeast, Jacksonville, FL
Name of decedent: Dock
Ulysses Augustus Richard Lawson Reese
Date of death: 14 DEC 2011
Relationship:
Father
Cause of Death:
Pancreatic Cancer
Arrangements:
17 December 2011
Jones-Washington Mortuary
508 East Martin Luther King,
Jr. Street
Bryan, TX 77803
Requests: "Pray for our
family during this time of grief and loss".
Contact: nancy.f.reese@navy.mil
27. CLERGY FAMILY
BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
We regret to announce the
passing of Mrs. Delma Cotton, the sister of Rev. Charles E. Bartley Pastor of
Zion Chapel A.M.E. Church, Hattiesburg, Mississippi and the sister in law of
the Rev. Sabrena Bartley, pastor of East Pine AME Church in Petal, Mississippi.
The Services are as follows:
Thursday December 15, 2011
Visitation: 3 pm-8 pm
Wallace Funeral Home
2020 Roosevelt Road
Broadview, IL 60155
Telephone: (708) 344-1288
FAX: (708) 344-1334
Friday December 16, 2011
Viewing: 12:00-1:00
p.m.
Funeral: 1:00 p.m.
Wallace Funeral Home
2020 Roosevelt Road
Broadview, IL 60155
The Repast:
Boys & Girls Club
200 South 5th Avenue
Maywood, IL
Expressions of sympathy can
be emailed to:
The Rev. Charles Bartley: bartleycharles@yahoo.com
The Rev. Sabrena
Bartley: sabrena.bartley@yahoo.com
Or you may reach the family
by telephone: 601-334-5342 or 601597-3969.
28. CLERGY FAMILY
BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
We regret to announce the
passing of Mrs. Clara Reddick, widow of the late Presiding Elder A. Joseph
Reddick, of the Suwannee River District of 11th Episcopal District. Celebrating
Mrs. Clara Reddick’s life and legacy are three daughters, Cleo Reddick Jones,
Patricia Sassnet Sampson and Marian Reddick Morris and grandson, the Reverend
Patrick Joseph Sassnet, pastor at St. Paul AME Church, Ocala, FL.
The funeral has been held.
Expressions of Sympathy may
be sent in care of the family of Mrs. Clara Reddick to:
Mrs. Cleo R. Jones
3006 Rhone Ct.
Jacksonville, FL 32208
29. CLERGY FAMILY
BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
We regret to share news of
the passing of Mr. Joe L. Plummer, age 75, father of the Reverend Jimmie
Plummer, Executive Aide, Office of the Bishop, 13th Episcopal District AME
Church and Pastor of St. Luke AME Church, Gallatin, Tennessee.
The funeral has been held.
Expressions of sympathy can
be sent to:
The Reverend Jimmie L.
Plummer, Pastor
St. Luke AME Church
355 North Blythe Street
Gallatin, TN 37066
Telephone: 615-452-3137
Expressions of sympathy can
also be emailed to: jlpddpjp2@hotmail.com
30. 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
31. 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.
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
31. 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.
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