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
The Reverend Dr. Johnny Barbour, Jr., Publisher
The Reverend Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III, the 20th Editor, The Christian Recorder
January - Cervical Health Awareness Month
Lent 2012 begins on Ash Wednesday - February 22, 2012
1.
EDITORIAL – BISHOP RICHARD ALLEN HILDEBRAND LIVED LONG AND HE LIVED WELL:
Dr. Calvin
H. Sydnor III,
The 20th
Editor, The Christian Recorder
Bishop Richard Allen Hildebrand was unusual. Everyone had positive
comments to say about him. I have never heard anyone say anything negative
about him. Bishop Hildebrand has been described as a nice man, a gentle spirit,
fair-minded, compassionate, intellectual, down to earth, loving, fair,
pastoral, a mentor, scholar, great preacher, educator, theologian, and always a
pastor. Bishop Richard Allen Hildebrand was a man of character who came from
humble beginnings, reached the highest level of the African Methodist Episcopal
Church – being elected and consecrated a bishop, served prestigious episcopal
districts. Bishop Hildebrand never forgot his roots or his humble
beginnings. He was a humble man of God.
Bishop
Richard A. Hildebrand, the 88th elected and consecrated Bishop of
the African Methodist Episcopal Church was described by many pastors and laity
as being an amazing person! Until his death, he looked so young, spoke with a
strong voice and with authority. He touched so many pastors, who credit
him with their success in ministry. In the words of young people today, Bishop
Richard Allen Hildebrand rose to the “top of his game.” He was always humble, always compassionate,
and never lost the common touch, even though he had reached the "top of
his game."
Many
pastors and many bishops retire at the end of their ministerial careers, but
Bishop Hildebrand broke the glass-ceiling when it came to retirement. After
Bishop Hildebrand retired, in a phrase spoken by Bishop David Daniels,
President of the Council of Bishops, Bishop Hildebrand was “retired but not
“tired.” Retired Bishop John Hurst Adams, who delivered the eulogy, described
Bishop Hildebrand as having his “priorities right.” Bishop Adams went on to
describe Bishop Hildebrand as being complete and intellectually intelligent,
moral, social, and as a man with common sense who filtered his life through his
faith. Bishop Adams went on to say that Bishop Hildebrand was a complete man of
God.
The
homegoing celebration of Bishop Richard Allen Hildebrand was held on Saturday,
December 18, 2011 at St. Paul African Methodist Episcopal Church in
Jacksonville Florida where the Rev. Dr. Marvin C. Zanders II serves as the
pastor. Bishop McKinley Young is the Presiding Prelate of the 11th
Episcopal District and Dr. Dorothy Young is the Episcopal Supervisor.
Bishops,
Episcopal Supervisors, General Officers, Connectional Officers, presiding
elders, pastors and laity came from far and near to attend the celebration
of “The Life and Ministry of Bishop
Richard Allen Hildebrand.” The mood was celebratory and those who attended the
celebration knew they were coming to commemorate a life well-lived.
The
processional included the Bishops of the African Methodist Episcopal Church in
all of the presiding elders and pastors of the Eleventh Episcopal
District. The Processional Hymn was
“Hold to God’s Unchanging Hand.” The Hymn of Praise was that majestic hymn,
"How Great the Wisdom,” described as one of Bishop Hildebrand's favorite
hymns.
The
Invocation was delivered by Bishop Preston W. Williams II, the Presiding
Prelate of the Seventh Episcopal District; Bishop William P DeVeaux, Sr.,
Presiding Prelate of the Sixth Episcopal District read the Old Testament
lesson; Bishop Vashti Murphy McKenzie, Presiding Prelate of the Thirteenth
Episcopal District read the Epistle lesson; and Bishop Gregory G. M. Ingram,
Presiding Prelate of Tenth Episcopal District read the Gospel lesson.
A tribute
was given on behalf of the Council of Bishops by Senior Bishop John Richard
Bryant, Presiding Prelate of the Fourth Episcopal District. Retired Bishop
Robert V. Webster and retired Bishop Henry A. Belin delivered tributes on
behalf of the retired bishops; and the Rev. Wendell C. Webster delivered a
tribute on behalf of the historic Macedonia AME Church, the church Bishop
Hildebrand pastored after he retired from the episcopacy. Dr. Jayme Coleman
Williams delivered a tribute as a friend.
The Rev. Dr. Floyd H. Flake and the Rev. Dr. Mark a Tyler, former
students of Bishop Hildebrand also delivered tributes.
The
Eleventh Episcopal District’s East Conference Mass Choir provided music for the
homegoing celebration. The Rev. and Mrs. Godfrey (Fredericka) Taylor and Sister
Tanya Fields sang a special rendition of “Great is Thy Faithfulness” and
Brother Marlow Smith sang a solo. Other participants included the Rev. Dr.
Michael L. Mitchell, pastor of St. Stephen AME Church in Jacksonville, who
lined the Hymn of Affirmation, “Blessed Assurance”; and Brother Victor Owens,
who acknowledged the resolutions and the acknowledgments.
The host
pastor, the Rev. Dr. Marvin C. Zanders II lined the Hymn of Praise, “How Great
the Wisdom” and Bishop McKinley Young, Presiding Prelate of the Eleventh
Episcopal District and host for Bishop Hildebrand’s homegoing celebration was
the worship leader.
The
Presiding Elders of the Eleventh Episcopal District: the Rev. Tony D.
Hansberry, Suwannee North District; The Rev., Elizabeth Yates, Alachua Central
District; the Rev. Jimmie B. Keel, South District,
At the time
of his death, Bishop Hildebrand lived in Fernandina Beach Florida. He was 95
years of age and passed away on Monday, December 12, 2011. Bishop Hildebrand
was one of 10 children born to the late B.F. and Agnes Brogden Hildebrand in
Winnsboro, South Carolina. Seven of his
siblings preceded him in death.
Bishop
Hildebrand received his early education in the local schools of Winnsboro,
South Carolina and came to know the Lord at an early age. He attended Allen
University, Payne Theological Seminary, Boston University, Wilberforce
University and Morris Brown College, earning multiple degrees.
He became
an Itinerant Elder in the African Methodist Episcopal Church as a young adult.
He served this pastor in Ohio, Rhode Island, Delaware and New York. He was
President of the NAACP of New York City and served as President of the
Protestant Council of Churches in Manhattan.
He was
elected and consecrated a Bishop in the African Methodist Episcopal Church in
1972 and was active until his retirement in 1992. Upon his retirement, Bishop
Hildebrand moved to Fernandina Beach, Florida and became pastor of historic
Macedonia African Methodist Episcopal Church for four years, where he remained
an active member until his death.
Bishop
Hildebrand leaves to cherish his memory, his wife Zelgloria Kegler Hildebrand;
daughters, Camille Hildebrand of Fernandina Beach, Florida and Karen Crosby
(Bill) of Pompano Beach, Florida; a sister, Agnes Hildebrand of Sumter South
Carolina; a brother, Eugene Hildebrand of Orangeburg, South Carolina; a
brother-in-law, Bing L. Kegler; grandchildren Sienna Crosby, James, Elyse,
Damien, Endia, and Aaron; three stepchildren: James H. McDonald (Renea) of
Woodstock, Maryland; Shelley R. McDonald Pinkett (Martin) of Glendale,
Maryland; and Kenneth R. McDonald (Lynn) of Baltimore, Maryland; and a host of
nieces nephews and friends.
Dr. Martin
Luther King, Jr. is credited with the statement, “It’s not how long you live,
but how well you live.” In the life of
Bishop Richard Allen Hildebrand, “He lived long and he lived well!”
Praise be
to God for the long and productive life of Bishop Richard Allen Hildebrand.
*Portions
of the information in this article were extracted from “A Celebration of the
Life and Ministry – Bishop Richard Allen Hildebrand.”
2. TCR CORRECTION:
In the December 1, 2011 issue of TCR Online and in the January 23, 2012 edition of The Christian Recorder print edition,
the Editorial entitled, “The Trial of Bishop Wilfred J. Messiah” incorrectly
stated that Attorney Walter Searcy was a graduate of the Nashville School of
Law. Mr. Searcy is a 1985 graduate of the Vanderbilt University Law School.
3. AGNES B
HILDEBRAND AME CHURCH VISITED BY MINISTER OF STATE:
The host pastor, the Rev E. T. T. Msibi, accepted his
assignment to the church with great enthusiasm after the annual conference in
October 2011 and set off to explore never-tried ministries and avenues.
When the Grade 12 results were released, he arranged
dinner for the students who made the grade in their examinations and their parents
at a local hotel.
As the schools re-opened for the 2012 academic year,
he arranged for an Education day at church on the theme Education is Freedom,
be liberated.
Sunday, 22 January 2012, Education Day, will remain
etched in the minds of members of the Agnes Hildebrand AME Church in the M M
Mokone Conference in the 19th Episcopal District for a long time to
come.
The occasion was meant to celebrate success and
encourage members of the church to take keen interest in education.
Members of the congregation dressed in their academic
regalia and others in the outfits they wear at work walked some two to three
miles from some point in the Mabopane Township to church marching to the tune
of a brass band.
By way of motivating the young ones graduates wore
their academic regalia while other members were dressed in their outfits at
work. It was such a panoramic view on looking at those varied colours in the
church.
The representative of the District Office of Education
and Sister Sugar Sekhu gave speeches on the programmes offered by the
department. They outlined avenues that may be followed up to assistance that is
on offer financially.
Sister Sekhu outlined the need for education and that
it is not an instant matter. It needs patience, dedication and consistency. She
recalled the Chinese programme that contrasts short term and long term
planning, that when you plan for the long term one should plant trees.
A social responsibility exercise under the aegis of
the Board of Christian Education was handing out school shoes to some needy
learners in the church and community, not necessarily AME Church members.
The Honourable Minister of Basic Education, Angie
Motshekga, who was guest of honour, delivered a challenging speech which spoke
to the role of government, the role of parents and the role that learners
themselves should play if the nation is to forge ahead and be productive for
generations to come.
When the Hon Minister asked for the singing of Lizalis’ idinga lakho, a hymn which was
sung by the ANC members in exile when they were nostalgic, the congregation
sang in such great unison that it felt like the church building will fall
apart.
In concluding her address the Minister said she could
not leave a service in the A M E Church without reminiscing about Charlotte
Maxeke. She gave an inspired and emotional impromptu speech that tears dropped
from some people’s eyes when they thought of this trailblazer who was second to
none in teaching, singing and housekeeping. It is this pioneer who brought
about the A M E Church to South
Africa as we know it today
The legacy of Maxeke is seen in the women of African
descent who hold their heads high in the country.
The Rev E. T. T. Msibi’s scripture text was St Mark 7:
34 Ephphata and his subject was “This will soon pass”
He highlighted how the society, despite setbacks,
hunger and all sorts of disadvantages can pull together to create opportunities
of learning, healing and blessings to disadvantaged people.
The deaf man’s ears were opened to be on the same level
with others. We must lift one another.
It was a fitting occasion graced by the woman minister
of state in a church brought to our shores through the assistance of a woman in
a church building named after the mother of the late Bishop Richard Allen Hildebrand.
Editor’s
Note: The address delivered by Mrs. Angie Motshekga,
Minister of Basic Education is posted below.
4. THE ADDRESS AT THE LAUNCH OF THE EDUCATIONAL
MINISTRY OF THE AFRICAN METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH:
By Mrs Angie Motshekga,
Minister of Basic Education
Agnes B Hilderbrand AME
Church, Mabopane: 22 January 2012
Reverend Msibi le Phuthego ya AME
Kea le dumedisa ka lebitso la ntate. Ke motlotlo ho ba le lona
tsatsing lena le botlhokwa, la thuto.
“Education is the best provision for the journey to old age.” These
wise words come from Aristotle, a great Greek philosopher and
teacher. His words remain spot on.
It therefore
gives me great pleasure being with you launching the Education Ministry of the African
Methodist Episcopal Church (AME). Thank you so much for making this possible.
Your launch is
very timely, only three days after the opening of inland schools as we set out
together with our children on a positive journey into the 2012 school year.
We’ve started the New Year with a bang emboldened by the inspiring performance
of the Class of 2011 that gave us a 70.2% pass.
I thank all our
children, some of whom are here, for the exceptional effort they put into their
education last year, preparing for a happy and fulfilling life beyond old-age.
Thank you to
all the parents here and the community of Mabopane for their role in education.
All in all, 348 117 learners out of 496
090 have passed matric.
Your province, Gauteng, which got second position among all provinces,
achieved 81.1%, up from 78.6% of 2010. For this I congratulate all of you. Well
done for the great work!
I’m happy AME has brought us together in ‘the year of unity’. I appeal to all of you to help us keep all the children
in school. Together we must arrest the drop-out rate, at least until children
have passed matric.
From all our homes and places of worship, we must provide career
guidance to the young before they pass matric. Teach them university is not the
only place to go to. There are many options. Do invite people from FET colleges
or universities of technology to come and discuss with church members and grade
11s what the options are and how to apply.
From last year, we are providing workbooks to help improve reading and
counting from a tender age. We rely on parents to work through these valuable
books at home with the children; read to the children, every day.
When you get your children’s results of Annual National Assessments,
look at them carefully and use them to intervene in your child’s education.
We welcome the
AME’s decision to start an educational ministry, believing it will advance and
support all our efforts to improve last year’s performance in terms of the
number of learners who pass and the quality of the passes, right across the
system, from Grade R up to Grade 12.
Reverend Msibi
tells me the overarching vision of the educational ministry is to inculcate the
culture of learning and moral regeneration among the youth and the community at
large. Accordingly, the AME Church is expected to minister to the social,
spiritual and physical development of all our people.
We thank warmly
the Church for this noble gesture. This is one crucial campaign to help us show
that ‘education is a societal issue’.
It is a responsibility of all of us. No government, all over the world, can
educate the people without the people.
Today therefore
represents an important occasion attesting to the correctness of our decision
as a nation to make education a top priority. For indeed it is through
education that we can make this congregation, and all our people, lifelong
learners, regardless of age or background.
Our problems
are many. We need your support. We need schools that work and principals who
are responsible fully for academic excellence in their schools.
We need
teachers who teach every day and every period without fail. We need learners
who are disciplined, dedicated, respectful and willing to be taught and to
learn.
We have a
challenge of improving performance in poorly performing schools and districts.
We need proper classrooms, sufficient and high-quality learning and teaching
materials, and we need safety in schools and surrounding communities.
Reverend Msibi,
I invite you and the congregation as well as the entire community of Mabopane,
to support “The Adopt a School Campaign”
which we launched recently. It is through this campaign that your programme on
learners ‘adopting’ parents as their support system can be strengthened.
We welcome your
kind act of donating school shoes to needy learners. I am happy that community
involvement in education is taking root and the urgent call for a social
compact is gathering momentum.
Tomorrow, ABSA
bank will also donate shoes to a school in Joburg and Nedbank will provide
uniform to a school in Limpopo. All these efforts show South Africa’s unity and
commitment to the education of our children.
As I say, all
the time, to young people, ‘make much of
time’. Seize opportunities, take your schooling seriously, make education a
provision for a happy journey to old age.
Always
remember, your rights, including the right to education, did not come cheap.
Many people gave their lives as they laid the foundation for your peaceful
journey to adulthood.
While we view academic achievement as a
key indicator of quality in our public education system, we also expect
education to help us promote commonly shared values and a human rights culture
for the benefit of all our people.
‘Thank you’ to the AME Church for joining
hands with us in the endeavour to build value-based schools. Through your
support we can plant the seeds of moral regeneration. As former President of
the United States Theodore Roosevelt once said:
We need the church and all
of South Africa to build a caring society and “to improve the quality of life of all citizens and free the potential
of each person”, as the Constitution says.
I thank you deeply for
making us part of this important service.
5. BISHOP GREGORY INGRAM VISIT TO
ST. PAUL-MINNEAPOLIS DISTRICT
By Charles
Hallman
St. Paul-Minneapolis District Reporter
The Black church should still play a big role
in people’s lives, especially in these tough economic times, says 10th
Episcopal District Bishop Gregory Ingram.
Ingram
spent the King Holiday weekend in the Twin Cities, and spoke at Lily of the
Valley AME Church in Eagan,
Minnesota. He also was the keynote speaker for the third
annual HBCU College Fair at St. Peter’s AME Church
in Minneapolis,
who co-sponsored the event with AchieveMpls, a nonprofit education support
organization on the Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday January 16.
In an
interview conducted before he spoke at the fair, the bishop briefly talked
about the church and the present conditions of the country today.
The church
“always has been an advocate, bedrock of our community to help people in times
of need,” he adds. “There is a
resurgence of people coming back to the church.
As much as we rely on the federal government for so much, the church has
done more with tithes than the country done with taxes.”
“Churches
should become more community oriented,” says Ingram. The church “always has been an advocate,
bedrock of our community to help people in times of need,” he adds. “There is a resurgence of people coming back
to the church. As much as we rely on the
federal government for so much, the church has done more with tithes than the
country done with taxes.”
Ingram
admits that the “good message” isn’t getting out there enough. “We look at the things that tear us down but
contrast that with all the good things that are happening that you don’t hear
about. We spend a lot of time talking
about the negative and all the things that are not, but if you took the same
amount of time and energy, and try to put in print all the good things the
church and the community is doing, you wouldn’t have enough ink.”
We can’t
forget the least of these, stressed Ingram.
“The big glaring disparity for a lot of people is economics, regardless
of race. How are you going to survive? How are you going to eat? What we have to do now is stand up and try to
make the quality of life for people a lot better.
“There’s a
devaluation going on across the country for a lot of people,” he
continues. “The unions are not what they
used to be. You got sixty percent are not even graduating from school and yet
this is the most literate time of our lives.
It seems like every state and every city has its only economic woes and
social struggles that they are dealing with.
So the question has to be asked – how better off are we than we were
during the times of Dr. King. What it
really going to take for us to emerge and have a singleness of purpose again.
“There is a
real critical need to refocus, reanalyze, reevaluate and reassess” what is
currently happening in this country, says Ingram. “You have two extremes going on: the very poor and the very rich. There is a need for a redistribution of
wealth – you can’t a minority group of people, less than five percent,
controlling that.”
The church
has to stand up and speak the truth, believes the bishop. “Pastors and (lay) people do something to
arouse the attention or at least keep our people informed of what’s going on,”
he says.
Ingram also
discussed the importance of HBCUs – the AME Church
operates several, including Wilberforce (Ohio)
University and Paul Quinn (Texas)
College. “Contrary to what a lot of
people think, there still is a need for them,” stressed Ingram.
During his
keynote speech, Bishop Ingram told the high school students, parents and others
that he wasn’t always the best student in school. “I flunked the fifth grade,” he
admitted. However, he turned things
around and “graduated with honors,” the bishop says proudly.
That fifth
grade teacher who held him back “followed my career,” says Ingram.
He warned
the young people against nay-sayers:
“You never know what God has in store for you,” surmises the
bishop. “I want you to think big and
dream big, and hold fast to your dreams.
Some of you need to be thinking about your dreams and aspirations like
yesterday.”
Black
colleges and universities should be supported, states Ingram, a Wilberforce
graduate who quickly reminded the audience that Dr. King also was a HBCU
graduate. “You almost can’t name any
Black leader who hadn’t attended a historic Black college,” added Ingram.
“There is a
systemic attempt to wipe out some of these Black schools,” he believes. “These
schools historically had a role in the growth and development of our people,
our neighborhoods and who we are. There
are people who would not be, and this country would not be what it is today
without . . . Black schools.
“I think
some of you can help (HBCUs) stay abreast, alive and vibrate. Not all of you will go to a Big Ten school or
an Ivy League school, but you ought to give some consideration to Spellman
(College) or Tuskegee (University) or Bethune-Cookman (University); or
Wilberforce or Morehouse (College). These
schools are some wonderful schools,” surmises Bishop Ingram. “All throughout this country there are
familiar and wonderful historical Black colleges that all of you should give
attention and consideration.”
“There
still is a pivotal role for the historic Black college,” he concludes. “Black schools have standards just like
everyone else.”
6. A MODEST PROPOSAL FOR A MAJOR CHANGE:
*The Rev. Dr. Joseph A. Darby
We’re rapidly approaching the
49th General Conference of the African Methodist Episcopal Church in Nashville,
Tennessee. Much of what we do in
Nashville will set the stage for the celebration of our denominational
Bicentennial when we go to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania for the 50th General
Conference in 2016. That reality leads
me to make a suggestion to those who like to introduce General Conference
legislation - the time has come for revision of the AME Hymnal.
When I mentioned that idea to a
colleague, he noted that the hymnal was revised not that long ago. I took that to be the product of a reality
that my friend and I share but don’t like to admit - neither of us are young
preachers anymore!
The hymnal was revised in 1984 -
28 years ago - to celebrate the 1787 bicentennial of Richard Allen’s walkout
from Saint George’s Methodist Episcopal Church.
The 1987 revision broadened and offered ecumenical options for our
liturgy, added hymns with an African-American flavor and included hymns which
were formerly new and contemporary but had become standards by 1984.
Songs that were considered to be
“new and contemporary” when the AME Hymnal was revised 28 years ago have now
become familiar standards. Many of them,
which can be found in the 2001 African-American Heritage Hymnal, are now used
in many AME Churches to augment the hymns found in the 1984 Hymnal to give our
worship a more contemporary flavor.
A revision of the AME Hymnal,
which also serves as our essential book of worship, would provide an expanded
selection of new and old hymns and service music, and would give us the chance
to review our liturgy and include new things to meet contemporary needs and
trends while also being faithful to our nearly two centuries of African
Methodist tradition.
Revision of the AME Hymnal isn’t
a radical idea. The 1984 Bicentennial
Hymnal was a revision of the 30 year old 1954 Hymnal. The 1954 Hymnal was a revision of the 1941
Richard Allen Hymnal that was actually published in 1946. In the “Publisher’s Word” for the 1941
Hymnal, W.K. Hopes, Manager of what was then called the “AME Book Concern,
noted that the Hymnal had been revised numerous times since 1816, with major
revisions by Bishops Henry McNeal Turner in 1876 and J.C. Embry in 1892.
In the “Publisher’s Word,” for
the re-printing of the 1954 Hymnal during his tenure, then Publisher and now
Bishop Henry A. Belin noted that the speedy revision of the 1941 Hymnal was
done, “In order that the AME Hymnal might have been fully modernized to avoid
the use of other books containing the hymns needed in our Zion.” By the standard expressed by Bishop Belin, a
revision is in order. Methodists are, as
Supervisor Vivienne L. Anderson noted in the Preface to the 1984 Hymnal, a
“Singing People.” Worship in an African
Methodist context should be familiar across the Connectional church but should
also have a local flavor.
Our churches should offer a
musical “buffet,” so that all of those who come through our doors to worship
can find something that touches their hearts.
It’s very easy, in an era when many of our churches compete with congregations
that only embrace what’s heard on Gospel radio, for pastors to make the
strategic decision to lay the AME Hymnal aside and go with what’s more
contemporary. A solid and caring
revision would make that strategic consideration a less than urgent demand.
I’m well aware that when it comes
to good ideas in the AME Church, the words of Ecclesiastes 1:9b apply:
“...there is nothing new under the sun.”
If the idea of revision is already being kicked around, then I endorse
it and offer my thoughts herein as support for the idea. If not, I hope the idea is given due
consideration, so that those who find spiritual comfort in “What a Friend We
Have In Jesus” and those who find spiritual comfort in “Lord, Keep Me Day By
Day” can find shared comfort in the songs of our Zion that form the bedrock for
our worship experience.
*The Rev. Dr. Joseph A. Darby is
the senior pastor of Morris Brown AME Church in Charleston, South Carolina
7. NATIONAL BLACK HIV/AIDS AWARENESS DAY – FEBRUARY
7, 2012:
HIV/AIDS remains a persistent
threat to the health and well-being of Black communities. The African Methodist Episcopal Church
Connectional Health Commission and faith based leaders all over the country are
stepping up their effort in honor of the 12th commemoration of National Black
HIV/AIDS Awareness Day – February 7, 2012.
They are doing this to meet the crisis that confronts Black communities
every day. This year’s theme, “Changing
the Course of HIV/AIDS, 1 Black Life at a Time” underscores the need for
faith-based leaders, groups and organizations to work hand in hand to instill
value and worth into Black communities.
February 7th is National Black
HIV/AIDS Awareness Day, a national HIV testing and treatment community
mobilization initiative designed to encourage Blacks across the United States,
Territorial Areas and Diaspora to get educated, get tested, get involved, and
get treated around HIV/AIDS, as it continues to devastate Black
communities.
When looking at HIV/AIDS by race
and ethnicity alone, Blacks have more illness (Blacks represent approximately
14% of the U.S. population and account for 44% of all new HIV infections and
46% of people living with HIV disease); and more deaths (Blacks accounted for
57% of deaths due to HIV in 2006 and the survival time after an AIDS diagnosis
is lower on average than it is for most other racial/ethnic groups).
There is an Ethiopian Proverb
that reads, “When spider webs unite, they can tie up a lion.” As a person of influence within the Black community,
we are asking you to join us in encouraging Blacks across the United States and
Territorial Areas to get educated, get tested, get involved, and get treated
around HIV/AIDS. Statistics show that
Blacks continue to be disproportionately affected by HIV/AIDS. Let’s continue the work of bringing change to
Black America! Register your church and
the event in which you will lead or participate on the Connectional Health Commission
website, www.amechealth.org.
It seems that the cost of living
continues to rise, but the cost of dying is lessening. We need your voice, influence, passion and
commitment in this fight to save our Beloved Community from an epidemic that is
100% preventable. To find out more
information about National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day (NBHAAD), please visit
www.blackaidsday.org.
*The Rev. Miriam J. Burnett, MD,
MDiv, MPH is the Medical Director,
AMEC Connectional Health
Commission
8. BELIEVE IN HER - FOR HER EXCELLENCY PRESIDENT ELLEN JOHNSON:
*Danica Daniels
We are more than war and
excellence rises from the rubbles.
Have you ever looked over the Atlantic Ocean
and stood in hot Liberian sand
and wondered how
one could call
such blessed grandeur
barren and
war torn?
We are undimmed
might and beauty.
Our future rises from our present struggle.
Give Liberia your heart.
Believe in her
and teach your children peace
and justice without blood shed
and love without barriers.
Those who lead her must love her.
Mark your calendar for this is her
7th year of unmoving adoration,
of careful peace and steady just light.
A Peace Warrior leads Liberia
back to her golden age. Let us march
to the steady paces of our heartbeats,
So that generations far beyond us can
stand on this land
and marvel in the joy that is
Liberia.
Composed by Danica Rwysayma Daniels, December 28, 2011. Danica is the
daughter of Bishop and Mrs. David R. Daniels, Presiding Prelate and Episcopal
Supervisor of the 14th Episcopal District. Liberia is a part of the 14th
Episcopal District.
9. FROM
PRAGMATIC PRAISE TO POSITIVE ACTION:
*The Rev. Dr. Joseph A. Darby
One of the blessings of modern technology is that busy people can now
download electronic books online and read them at their leisure. One of the
books I’m now reading is “The Universe Bends Toward Justice: Radical
Reflections on the Bible, the Church, and the Body Politic” by Dr. Obery M.
Hendricks, an AME theologian and professor at the New York Theological
Seminary.
In the first Chapter, Dr. Hendricks expresses both his affinity for and
frustration with contemporary Gospel music. He begins that chapter with a 1997
quote from modern Gospel icon Kirk Franklin: “People need to get high off
something spiritual, and I’m the holy dope dealer. I got this drug, I got this
Jesus rock. And you can have a type of high that you’ve never experienced.”
Dr. Hendricks’ thoughts resonated with me. I enjoy modern Gospel songs
like “The Presence of the Lord is Here” and “Praise Him in Advance,” but they
only emphasize praise and personal experience. Spirituals like “Go Down, Moses”
and “We Are Climbing Jacob’s Ladder, Soldiers of the Cross,” however, are
products of an era when God’s children of color were struggling with slavery
and striving for freedom. They emphasize shared struggle and shared
responsibility for positive action, and became anthems of the 20th century
civil rights struggle.
Some now argue that the struggle is over and that we can focus on praise
and personal prosperity, but that argument doesn’t hold up in the face of
reality. As I write these words, the South Carolina Republican Presidential
Primary is looming on the horizon and the candidates are offering outrageous,
racially divisive, “red meat” rhetoric to their voting base. Their pandering to
the fears of bigots and their quest for nomination not to serve the people but
to “beat Obama” says loud and clear that we have miles to go before we live in
a post-racial America.
The historically black church was born and forged in the crucible of
injustice, fought for freedom and dignity down through the years, and gave rise
to what is now known as Liberation Theology. In many respects, however, the
historically black church has become a dim reflection of what it used to be.
Some of America’s largest and fastest growing black churches emphasize
“praise and personal prosperity,” with an obligatory nod to the needy once
found only in predominately white churches that salved their collective
consciences by doing acts of charity for the poor without really changing their
lives. Some pastors choose to be pragmatic rather than prophetic and won’t take
stands on social issues and public policy, lest they offend those looking for
“feel good” religion or those who award monetary grants to bolster their
churches. As AME Bishop John Hurst Adams says, “It’s hard to bark when you’re
chewing on a bone.”
The struggle for human and civil rights still goes on and is still
critical to many of those in communities served by historically black churches,
but many churches are “missing in action” when it comes to changing systems
that impact the lives of their parishioners and only offer “spiritual popcorn,”
which is light, tasty and easy to swallow but far less than spiritually
nutritious. Many of those in our communities still look to the church to
advocate for them and to the pastors they financially support to take stands
that they can’t comfortably take. They’re too often simply told to “praise the
Lord” and “count on Jesus” and not encouraged to “fight the good fight” or to
work to see that justice and righteousness flow freely for all of God’s
children.
We’ll elect a President of the United States in 2012, and the church
needs to play a role in our doing so by registering, educating and mobilizing voters,
by speaking truth to power and by confronting those who drape the politics of
racist fear and division in the cloak of religion.
We must be prophetic rather than pragmatic, so that we can honor those
who fearlessly and faithfully sacrificed and suffered to gain the rights that
we now enjoy. To do otherwise is to insult their memory and to spit in the face
of the Jesus who confronted the powers-that-be of His day, and who advocated
for the well being of those shunned and oppressed by polite society. That
timeless spiritual imperative should carry us beyond pragmatic praise to
positive action, for the words of our ancestors in the faith are still true –
if we don’t stand for something, we’ll fall for anything.
*The Rev. Dr. Joseph A. Darby is the pastor of Morris Brown AME Church
in Charleston, South Carolina
10. IN
COMMEMORATION OF THE RECOGNIZED FATHER OF BLACK HISTORY:
*Theman R. Taylor, Sr. Ph.D.
Carter G. Woodson 1875-1950 - documented and restored the black past for
America
If a race has no documented history, then it becomes a negligible
factor in the thoughts of the world and stands in danger of being exterminated
from the world stage. According to the text, The Africans Who Wrote the Bible, by Alex Darkwah, the African
People appreciated the value of documented history and traditions as reflected
in the Bible itself; thus they are still a factor in world civilization.
Additionally, Carter Woodson states, 'The achievements of the Negro properly
set forth will crown him as a factor in early human progress and a maker of
modern civilization.'
When the Harvard graduate initiate Negro History Week in 1926, the main
thrust was to correct the omission of facts by historians and others that gave
little thought or information to Blacks as contributors in building the
country's past and present history. He recognized that part of the
problem stems from what people are taught and learned. If one's contribution to
history is suspect, one's humanity and personality will be also. In America
what Woodson started was a restoration project: the demand to be re-entered
into history teaching
At the beginning of the 20th Century, African American History took a
giant step when the movement to rescue the African American from "History
or His-Story" oversight came under the leadership of Dr. Carter G.
Woodson. The Woodson restoration project forced us to re-examine America's past
record that has contributed to the mis-education of the American people and
have unprepared us to deal with the present. Any environment or
educational system which suggests that children be educated in an atmosphere of
semi-permanent amnesia, humiliation, or small doses about their ancestor's
contribution is a history not worth knowing. Recognition in some
cases would be given in a passing note in the drama of Anglo-Saxon destiny and
fulfillment.
Woodson, born of former slaves, Annie and James Woodson in New Canton,
Virginia on December 19, 1875, is widely honored and recognized as
the Father of Negro History Week (now called Black History Month, changed in
1976). During the Bicentennial celebration, the change was made to include the
entire month of February to allow more time for programs and celebrations). The
change acknowledges the new consciousness, rediscovery and relationship with
their African ancestry, as well as her/his contribution to America's cultural
life) Woodson selected February because he was attuned to the symbolism of
the American psyche: the birthdays of Frederick Douglass,
Abraham Lincoln, George Washington; and of course W.E.B. Du Bois are in
February.
Academic success for Woodson was by no means easy. Because of
conditions not controlled by African Americans he was forced to work as a miner
in Virginia when he was young, and when he entered Douglass High School in 1895
he was almost 20. Beginning his career as a High School Teacher, then
Principal and later Professor and Dean at Howard University and West Virginia
State College. Woodson was educated at Berea College and the Sorbonne in
Paris, received his Master's Degree from the University of Chicago in 1908
and earned his Doctorate from Harvard in 1912. Dr. Woodson was one of the
few formally trained African American Historians at the beginning of the 20th
Century, the first being W.E.B. Du Bois, whose doctoral dissertation in history
in 1895 from Harvard became the first title published in the
Harvard Historical Studies. Unlike Woodson, Du Bois did not didn’t make
history his main emphasis: he turned to protest and agitation. Woodson perceived
neglect for his people and spent his entire adult life striving to end it and
according to the late historian John Henrik Clarke, restoring the missing
segments of world history.
Prior to earning his doctorate from Harvard, Woodson had wanted to study
African American History at the University of Michigan. He made this request to
one of the leading so-called historians on slavery and the south, Ulrich Bonell
Phillips, who was teaching at the University of Michigan. 'Told by Woodson that
he would like to study African American History, Phillips replied,
"There's no such thing." Dr. Woodson was convinced that "if a
race has no recognized or recorded history, its achievements would be forgotten
and finally claimed by other groups." An example could be made and applied
to Henry David Thoreau. Oftentimes Thoreau is given credit for
setting forth the methods of resisting an unjust government without resorting
to violence, principles laid out in his pamphlet on Civil Disobedience in
1849 His ideas are alleged to have influence Mohandas Gandhi and later
Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. However an African American, William Whipple,
one of the Founders of the American Moral Reform Society set forth these same
principles in an article he wrote in 1837 for the ‘Colored American’ entitled
"An Address on Non-Resistance to Offensive Aggression."
He insisted on researching and publishing the facts as they
were found, washing dirty linen in public regardless of who it affected.
This might explain why wealthy patrons and foundations at times refused him
money. Mary McCleod Bethune probably best expressed the thrust and impact of
Carter Woodson on his death, April 3, 1950: "I believe in Carter Woodson
because he stirred the dormant pride in the souls of thousands and, ignorant or,
unmindful of our glorious heritage...I love Carter Woodson, but I do not grieve
for him, because I know on that April Day when he left his post...he left it to
join ranks of those great servants of humanity whose leadership is
timeless."
America is basically a multi-ethnic and potentially great country but
when one examines the Black experience, this nation has never made the best use
of the fact that it is multi-ethnic. Dr. Carter G. Woodson's restoration
project and Black History Month challenges Americans to confront its
past, good and bad, Black History Month should be used as a tool to
measure African American people, past, present and future, not as a time for
bring out of closets and boxes the picture of great, safe and approved African
Americans (Knee-grows) only to tuck them away at the end of the month until
next year. It must be observed twelve months a year with February being the
month of reaffirmation, assessing the challenge and preserving African American
Humanity.
*Dr. Theman R. Taylor is a native-son of Sunny South Dallas, H. S.
Thompson, Lincoln High School Class 1960. Dr. Taylor, Ph.D., retired college
tenured professor of History, recently moved back home and is currently living
in Lancaster, Texas with wife, Mary Alice Taylor. He is former member of Conner Chapel AME
Church and a former Trustee and Director of Christian Education.
11. THE REV. DR. CECELIA WILLIAMS TO BE GIVEN 2012 HELEN
FLANDERS DUNBAR AWARD BY ACPE:
CLEVELAND,
Ohio _ The Reverend Dr. Cecelia Williams, pastor of the Greater Bethel A.M.E.
Church in Cleveland, Ohio, will be presented the 2012 Helen Flanders Dunbar
Award, Feb. 8, 2012 by The Association for Clinical Pastoral Education at its
presidential dinner at the Sheraton National Hotel in Arlington Virginia.
This
award is a distinguished honor that annually recognizes the contributions of a
Clinical Pastoral Education Supervisor. For the past 33 years, Dr.
Williams’ ministry has followed two streams, as a local Pastor in the African
Methodist Episcopal Church and as a Clinical Pastoral Education Supervisor.
In
1989, Dr. Williams became the first African-American woman to be certified as a
full supervisor in the Association for Clinical Pastoral Education. She has trained men and women for ministry
from various faith groups and from many different racial and ethnic backgrounds
at Our Lady of the Lake Regional Medical Center in Baton Rouge, La., the
Medical College of Virginia in Richmond Va., The Fayetteville NC Department of
Veterans Affairs, the Louis Stokes Cleveland, VA Medical Center; the APEX CPE
Center and the DMC/Sinai Grace Medical Center in Detroit, Mich. Under her
supervision, Dr. Williams’ students’ became successful pastors, counselors and
chaplains in hospitals, prisons and college campuses.
Dr.
Williams’ pastoral experiences in the African Methodist Episcopal Church,
include serving as senior pastor for seven congregations in three Episcopal
Districts, the 8th, 2nd, and 3rd. She earned
her Doctorate of Ministry from the United Theological Seminary, Dayton, Ohio; a
Master’s of Divinity from the New Orleans Theological Seminary; and a
Bachelor’s Degree from the University of Massachusetts, School of Community and
Public Service. Her CPE training was
conducted at the Southern Baptist Hospital in New Orleans Louisiana.
The AME Church endorsed Dr. Williams as a
Federal Chaplain. She served at the Fayetteville, NC. VA Medical Center, where
she opened a new CPE Center. In 2002, she was appointed as the Director of CPE
at the Louis Stokes Veterans Administration Medical Center in Cleveland. Her
work there included, opening a CPE Center, serving as a Staff Chaplain and
Chair of the Medical Center’s Ethics Committee. Dr. Williams retired from the
Department of Veterans Affairs in 2007. After her retirement she was assigned
as the Clinical Pastoral Education/Administrative Supervisor at the Detroit
Medical Center/ Sinai Grace Hospital. She continues her relationship with
several professional, community organizations and boards. Dr. Williams, a
widow, is the mother of three adult children, and five grandchildren. She has
many clerical friends that she also considers a part of her extended family
Submitted
by Tina A. Brown, Email: tabbrown1@yahoo.com
12. PASTOR CLAUDE RAY JAMES HONORED
FOR 30 YEARS OF PASTORAL MINISTRY:
On November
19, 2011, members of historic First A. M. E. Church, Athens, Georgia celebrated
the 30 years of Pastoral Ministry of their pastor, the Rev. Claude Ray James.
People traveled long distances to celebrate with their pastor, former pastor,
mentor, friend and colleague.
The evening
was designed to celebrate, roast and toast the outstanding career of Pastor
James. Over eighty people enjoyed the program that was divided into three
parts: Presiding over the Blaze; Fanning the Flames; and Fiery Response.
Speakers
“lightly roasted” Pastor James during the “Presiding over the Blaze”
presentation; during the “Fanning the Flames” segment, speakers toasted the
Rev. James for his many accomplishments. Some of the comments included: Pastor
James is a biblical scholar, his Bible Study classes are excellent, and his
sermons are biblically-based and well-structured; Pastor James is a lover of
humanity, he relates well with people from all walks of life; and Pastor James
is a no-nonsense pastor, and he is well disciplined and well-prepared.
Pastor
James began his ministry in 1982. In
1982-1986, he pastored St. Paul AME Church in Covington, Georgia. From 1986-1993, he pastored at First AME
Church in Athens, Georgia. After leaving Athens, he pastored Bethel AME Church
in Albany, Georgia. In 1993, he was
assigned to Allen Temple AME Church in Atlanta, Georgia.
He made history
in 2009 by returning to First AME Church, Athens, Georgia for a second pastoral
assignment. He has revived a ministry
with the Bethel Town Village community, which is adjacent to the church. In addition to many other initiatives, he has
re-established the church Food Bank which serves over 50 families each week.
Pastor
James most ambitious initiative is the Nehemiah Project, which is designed to
raise $100,000 as “seed money” for renovation of Historical First AME
Church. $81,000,000 has been raised to
date.
The evening
also included a liturgical dance by the First AME Liturgical Dancers. This
dance group was founded by Pastor James.
A
spectacular video presentation with photos of Pastor James from infancy to the
present-day was a delight for everyone in attendance.
The guests
enjoyed a bountiful multi-tiered buffet of delectable food. It was mentioned during several presentations
that Pastor James loves to eat and he was not disappointed during the evening.
During the
“Fiery Response,” Pastor James thanked all of those who attended and remarked
that he was most gracious for the years of friendship with them.
To
commemorate the milestone, Pastor James was given an engraved crystal Bible and
an engraved pen and pencil set.
The evening
concluded with a formal toast to Pastor James. Everyone stood with cider-filled
glasses and toasted Pastor James.
Pastor
James conducted a tour of the historic church for some of the guests.
13. “FIVE REASONS WHY NO ONE IS TALKING ABOUT YOUR HBCU” – ARTICLE IN TODAY’S (1/26/12) issue of HBCUDigest.com
TCR Editor’s Note: I believe the
article “Five
Reasons Why No One is Talking About Your HBCU” has relevance for the local
church. From the local church perspective when reading this article, in
your mind, replace “Your HBCU, your school” with the name of your local church;
replace the names of “Howard, Morehouse, Spelman, Tuskegee” with the names of
other successful churches in your community; replace “president” with the name
of your pastor; and replace “alumni” and “students” with the local church
officers and members.
Some of it has to do with longevity. Older schools have the benefit of history serving their promotional interests, particularly when the older a school, the more alumni it likely has graduated and engaged to give back and promote. Some of it has to do with alumni; the more popular the alumni, the more likely people will be interested in where they attended school.
But most of all, no one is talking about your HBCU because the HBCU isn’t giving anyone anything to talk about. Save for the occasional cafeteria brawl, sex tape or fired coach, your school isn’t at the forefront of discussion of notable HBCUs, or how it benefits black communities nationwide.
And that’s a shame, because your school is probably REALLY good at doing things that deserve credit and attention. It’s just that it’s also REALLY bad at telling its own story.
Here are five reasons why nobody knows about your HBCU.
5. Your Alumni Are Uninformed - If alumni know about student success, political victories, community development, chances are their families know about it. And their friends. And their co-workers. And their church family. And their hairdresser/barber. Get the point? Inform alumni, inform a nation.
4. Students Are Uninspired – There are many HBCUs that do a wonderful job at instilling school pride in their students. But the school pride only comes out at political rallies, athletic events, and when challenged by an outsider. Does your HBCU demand community service? Does it bombard students with stories of their own success via email, Twitter, Facebook, YouTube? Do they have a chance to share the lessons they learn in classes in real life applications that benefit the campus and surrounding community?
3. Your football team sucks - Truth is; athletics is the greatest marketing tool any college or university can have. The better your football team, the more chances reporters come around to find out what makes them so good. When you bring fans to the stadium, the school has the opportunity to share other good news taking place on campus. It is the ultimate fundraise, scholarship vehicle and open invitation to neighbors of your campus.
2. Your president doesn’t come out his office enough - If your president is not out of the office building relationships, motivating alumni, connecting with legislators, and making partnerships with corporations, the outside world has no concept of what your school has to offer beyond what the media reports. And often, that’s not good news.
1. Your school is missing the ‘One Big Thing’ – FAMU has the Marching 100. North Carolina A&T and Howard have famous homecomings. Grambling has Eddie Robinson. Morehouse has Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Fisk has the Jubilee Singers. What is the one big thing everyone should know your school claims, has, does, or offers? If you can’t answer that question in three words or less, your school is doomed to agonizing anonymity.
Read HBCU Digest Online: http://www.hbcudigest.com/
14. AROUND THE AME CHURCH:
Lexington-Fayette Urban County Human
Rights Commission: The following have been named to the 14-member executive
committee: Sandy Canon, chair; Robert Murray, vice chair; Michael Ades,
treasurer; and Kenneth Golphin, secretary.
Read
more here:
15. THE
REV SHARON GRANT COMPLETES REQUIREMENT FOR PH.D. IN CHURCH HISTORY FROM
SOUTHERN METHODIST UNIVERSITY:
The
Reverend Sharon Grant is proud to announce the completion of the requirements
for the Ph.D. in Church History from Southern Methodist University, (SMU) in
Dallas, Texas. The Rev. Sharon Grant is
a candidate for Historiographer and Executive Director for Research and
Scholarship.
Dr.
Grant‘s research project was centered on the history of African Methodism on
the island of Jamaica, her father’s birthplace.
In addition to the completion of the Ph.D. Dr. Grant accomplished the
task with Honors on the dissertation and Honors on the oral defense on December
12, 2011. She is the first
African-American woman to be admitted, matriculate and complete the Ph.D.
program from the Graduate Program of Religious Studies (GPRS) at SMU. For this and other mercies, Dr. Grant says,
“To God be the Glory, Great things God has done!”
Rev.
Grant remains on a quest to serve the Connectional AME Church as the next
Historiographer and Executive Director of Research and Scholarship. History is
not just her academic discipline, it is her ministry, and she is “Today’s
Historian for Tomorrow’s Church.”
16. 2012 SCHEDULE OF ANNUAL
CONFERENCES FOR THE SIXTH EPISCOPAL DISTRICT:
Bishop
William P. DeVeaux, Presiding Prelate
Dr. Pam
DeVeaux, Episcopal Supervisor
SOUTH GEORGIA ANNUAL CONFERENCE
February
28-March 1, 2012
Bethel
A.M.E. Church
217 South
Washington Street
Albany, GA
31701
TEL
229-435-8589
The
Reverend Ernest Davis, Jr., Host Pastor
The
Reverend Jacqueline Smith, Host Presiding Elder
SOUTHWEST GEORGIA CONFERENCE
March 6-8,
2012
Saint John
A.M.E. Church
3980 Steam
Mill Road
Columbus,
GA 31907
TEL
706-682-6944
The
Reverend Debora F. Grant, Host Pastor
The
Reverend M. Sven “Karl” Colquitt, Host Presiding Elder
GEORGIA CONFERENCE
March
27-29, 2012
Saint Paul
A.M.E. Church
1520 Wolfe
Street
Brunswick,
GA 31521
Telephone:
912-264-2734
The
Reverend Catherine Mathis, Host Pastor
The
Reverend Dan Stevenson, Host Presiding Elder
AUGUSTA GEORGIA CONFERENCE
April
24-26, 2012
First
A.M.E. Church
521 North
Hull Street
Athens, GA
30603
TEL
706-548-1454
The
Reverend Claude R. James, Host Pastor
The
Reverend Ella M. Samuels, Host Presiding Elder
MACON GEORGIA CONFERENCE
May 8-10,
2012
Turner
Tabernacle A.M.E. Church
1104 Third
Street
Macon, GA
31201
TEL
478-743-4932
The
Reverend Ernest Gordon, Host Pastor
The
Reverend Alan H. Wicker, Host Presiding Elder
ATLANTA NORTH GEORGIA CONFERENCE
May 22-24,
2012
The
Cathedral of Turner Chapel
492 N.
Marietta Parkway
Marietta,
GA 30060
TEL
770-422-6791
The
Reverend Dr. Kenneth E. Marcus, Host Pastor
The
Reverend Cassandra Y. Marcus, Host Co-Pastor
The Reverend
David Rhone, Host Presiding Elder
POST-PLANNING MEETING
June 1,
2012
Saint
Philip A.M.E. Church
240 Candler
Road SE
Atlanta, GA
30317
TEL
404-371-0749
The
Reverend Dr. William Watley, Host Pastor
The
Reverend Earle Ifill, Host Presiding Elder
DEVEAUX LEGACY CELEBRATION
June 1,
2012
Saint
Philip A.M.E. Church
240 Candler
Road SE
Atlanta, GA
30317
TEL
404-371-0749
The
Reverend Dr. William Watley, Host Pastor
The
Reverend Earle Ifill, Host Presiding Elder
DEVEAUX LEGACY/BUILDING DEDICATION
June 2,
2012
Sixth
Episcopal District Headquarters
2900
Chamblee Tucker Road, Building Three
Atlanta, GA
30341
TEL
770-220-1770
17. THE
2012 ANNUAL CONFERENCE SCHEDULE FOR THE 14TH EPISCOPAL DISTRICT:
Bishop
David R. Daniels, Presiding Prelate
Mrs. Irene Moifoi
Daniels, Episcopal Supervisor
COTE
D’IVOIRE ANNUAL CONFERENCE
January 26,
2012 W. M. S. Annual Convention
January
27-29, 2012: The Cote D’Ivoire Annual Conference
Host
Church: Bryant AME Church
Vridi-Canal,
Abidjan, Cote D’Ivoire, West Africa
Host
Pastor: The Rev. Kenneth Ansah
Host
Presiding Elder:
NIGERIA
ANNUAL CONFERENCE
February 2,
2012: W.M.S. Annual Convention
February
3-5, 2012: Annual Conference
Host
Church: Bethel AME Church
Old Akute
Road, Isaga, Lagos
Host
Pastor: The Rev. Boniface Essien
Host
Presiding Elder: The Rev. Boniface Essien
Hosting
Conference at All Saints AME Church
1, Adeniran
Falohun Street, Ogundimu Estate, Iju- Ishaga, Lagos, Nigeria.
TOGO/BENIN
ANNUAL CONFERENCE
February 9,
2012: W.M.S. Annual Convention
February
10-12, 2012: The Togo/Benin Annual Conference
Host
Church: Norris AME Church
Lome, Togo,
West Africa
Host
Pastor: The Rev. John Afawoubo
Host
Presiding Elder: The Rev. Julien Segniagbeto
GHANA
ANNUAL CONFERENCE
February 15,
2012: W.M.S. Annual Convention
February
16-19, 2012: The Ghana Annual Conference
Bethel
A.M.E. Church
Accra,
Ghana, West Africa
Host
Pastor, the Rev. Collier C. Coleman
Host
Presiding Elder, S. K. Nartey
SIERRA
LEONE ANNUAL CONFERENCE
February
29, 2012: W.M.S. Annual Convention
March 1-4,
2012: The Sierra Leone Annual Conference
Host
Church: New Zion AME Church
Padamba
Road
Freetown,
Sierra Leone, West Africa
Host
Pastor: The Rev. Ayodele A.A. Aitkins
Host
Presiding Elder: The Rev. Isaac Showers
CENTRAL
LIBERIA ANNUAL CONFERENCE
April –
9-10, 2012: W.M.S. Annual Convention
April 11 –
15, 2012: The Central Liberia Annual Conference
Host
Church: Susan Brooks AME Church
Host
Pastor: The Rev. James O. Jallah
Host
Presiding Elder: The Rev. V. Bryant Kporyor
LIBERIA
ANNUAL CONFERENCE
April 16
–17, 2012: W.M.S. Annual Convention
April 18 –
22, 2012: The Liberia Annual Conference
Host
Church: Eliza Turner Memorial AME Church
Host
District: Monrovia District
Host
Pastors: The Rev. Alvin Attah
Host Presiding
Elder: The Rev. David A. B. Parker
34 Camp
Johnson Road
Monrovia,
Liberia
18. THE 2012 ANNUAL CONFERENCE SCHEDULE FOR 16TH
EPISCOPAL DISTRICT:
Bishop Sarah Frances Davis, Presiding Prelate
Mr. Claytie Davis, Episcopal Supervisor
FEBRUARY 2012
01 Haiti WMS Convention, Mariani AME
Church; Host, Venue: Mary Beckett
AMEC
02-05 Haiti Annual Conference, Mariani AME Church, Hosting, Venue:
Mary Beckett AMEC
08 Dominican Republic WMS
Convention, La
Romana,
Impacto Davida AME Church,
Bishop
Preaching Night in White
09-12 Dominican Republic Annual Conference, La
Romana,
Impacto Davida AME Church
15-17 Global Development Executive Meeting,
Johannesburg, South Africa
29 Suriname/Guyana WMS
Convention, Nu
Bethel,
Suriname
MARCH /APRIL 2012
01-04 Suriname/Guyana Conference, Nu Bethel, Suriname
07 Windward Islands WMS Convention,
Metropolitan AME Church, Port of Spain,
Trinidad
08-11 Windward Islands Annual Conference, Metropolitan AME
Church, Port of Spain, Trinidad
21 Jamaica WMS Convention, Chapel of
Christ, Kingston, Jamaica
22–25 Jamaica Centenary Annual Conference, Chapel of Christ Our
Redeemer, Kingston, JA
28 Virgin Islands WMS Convention,
Bethel AME Church, Christiansted, Virgin Islands
29– Virgin Islands Annual Conference,
Bethel AMEC, Christiansted, Virgin Islands
April 1
APRIL
13 AMEC CONNECTIONAL DAY OF PRAYER
19 European Conference WMS Convention,
Nouvelle Alliance AME
Church, Lyon, France
20- European Annual Conference, Nouvelle
22 Alliance, AMEC, Lyon, France
25-27 Bishop and Presiding Elders Planning Meeting,
Port-au-Prince, Haiti
19.
MID-WEEK MEDITATION BASED ON MATTHEW 6:5-13:
*The Rev. Dr. Joseph A. Darby
When I was a South Carolina government employee, “direct deposit”
was a new paycheck option that initially received a lukewarm response. Fewer than half of my co-workers signed up
for it because, as one of them said, “I don’t trust that - I need to see and
touch my money!”
We’ve come a long way since those days. Paychecks and retirement checks are now
routinely deposited electronically to our bank accounts, we commonly use debit
cards to access our funds, and we check our balances and transfer money between
accounts online. In many respects, we’ve
become an almost “cashless” society.
Our doing so is a matter of trust in technology. We routinely pay bills through automatic
account withdrawals and make purchases with “plastic,” and our church’s website
even offers an online contribution option.
Years ago, as my former co-worker said, we needed to “see and touch” our
money. For many of us today, however,
money is an abstract concept - we believe that it’s in our bank accounts without
seeing or touching it.
If we can exercise that kind of faith in electronic banking, then
we should have equal - and greater - faith in the God who created us, provides
for us, and knows what we need before we think to ask for it. Many people who trust in electronic banking
without hesitation are reluctant to trust in a God that they can’t see or
touch, and will sometimes ask for evidence that there is a God and that God is
blessing them. Taking the time to count
our blessings can address that concern.
Just as the word “approved” appears on cash register keypads when
we make a successful debit card purchase and just as our merchandise arrives on
time when we make an online purchase, our daily blessings are evidence of the
presence of God. We may not see God face
to face, but our waking up each day, making it through life’s rough spots and
being well and safe in spite of life’s challenges are evidence of the blessed
presence of God in our lives.
When we apply the same standard to the reliable goodness of the
Lord that we apply to the reliability of “electronic” money, then we’ll realize
how good God is to us. We’ll find new
peace of mind and new encouragement in knowing that a mighty God that we can’t
see or touch is with us every step along life’s way and find new meaning in the
words of an old hymn of the church - “Many things about tomorrow I don’t seem
to understand, but I know who holds tomorrow and I know who holds my hand.”
*The Rev. Dr. Joseph A. Darby is the senior pastor of Morris Brown
AME Church in Charleston, South Carolina
20. EPISCOPAL AND CLERGY FAMILY
CONGRATULATORY ANNOUNCEMENTS:
-
Grandparents: Bishop and Mrs. C. Garnett Henning, Sr.
We praise God for the Happy, Healthy Birth of Massiah Garnett Love
Spragin, born on December 25, 2011, at 11:37 p.m. Pacific Standard Time, to
Carma Henning-Spragin and Ronald Spragin.
The proud Grandparents are Bishop C. Garnett Henning, Sr. and
Supervisor Ernestine Lee Henning, Presiding Prelate and Episcopal Supervisor of
the Third Episcopal District of the African Methodist Episcopal Church
The healthy baby boy and his lovely mother are doing just fine. We
solicit your prayers for the entire family on this special blessed event.
"Loving God, thank You
for the gift of life and for bringing Massiah Garnett Love Spragin safely into
this world. May You bless him and keep him, helping him to grow loving, strong,
and healthy in Your love, now and always. Amen."
Bishop C. Garnett Henning, Sr. and Supervisor Ernestine Lee
Henning
- Bishop
Samuel L. Green was invited and attended the State of the Union address
delivered by President Obama
Bishop Samuel L. Green attended the State of the Union Address
delivered by President Obama. Bishop Green was invited to this historical event
by Congressman Mike Ross, who is allowing Bishop Green the honor of sitting in
his seat in the Chamber.
Submitted by Anita Brannon, Office Manager, 12th Episcopal
District AMEC
Bishop Samuel L. Green, Presiding Prelate
- Chaplain
Carroll R. Chambliss, U.S. Navy (Retired) and Mrs. Christene H. Chambliss
celebrated 69th Wedding Anniversary
Retired U.S. Navy Chaplain Carroll R. Chambliss and Mrs. Christene
H. Chambliss, former North America Area President of the World Federation of
Methodist and Uniting Church Women and former WMS Connectional Officer,
celebrated their sixty-ninth wedding anniversary, Monday, January 2, 2012.
Their Message: "Sixty-nine years and still in love."
- Belated congratulatory responses and well-wishes can be sent to:
Chaplain and Mrs. Carroll R. Chambliss
200 N. Pickett Street # 708
Alexandria, Virginia 22304
(703) 823-2616 (Phone)
(703) 823-3441 (Fax)
Email: cchambliss1@comcast.net
- The
Reverend Lillian Frey completed her Master of Art Degree Program
The Reverend Lillian Frey completed her Master of Art degree
program in Education Curriculum Designs from the University of Phoenix on
December 19, 2011. She will march during the spring 2012 commencement
exercises.
The Reverend Lillian Frey, a member of the West Tennessee
Conference, 13th Episcopal District, is the spouse of the Reverend Nathan Frey,
Pastor of Allen Bethel AME Church, Lewisburg, Tennessee.
Congratulatory responses can be emailed to: lillian.n.frey@mnps.org
21.
EPISCOPAL FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
We are saddened to inform you that George Miller Henning died
yesterday after a long illness. He is the husband of Rita Claiborne Henning,
father of Kris Henning and Kyle Henning, brother to Bishop C. Garnett Henning
and Supervisor Ernestine Henning, Presiding Prelate and Supervisor, Third
Episcopal District AMEC.
Service arrangements and other details will be forth coming.
Please remember the family in your prayers.
22. CLERGY
FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
We regret to inform you of the passing of Mr. John R. Newman, husband
of the Rev. Cynthia M. Newman, the pastor of Bethel AME Church in Jacksonville,
Illinois (Illinois Conference, North District). Mr. Newman, known by many as
"Ricky," served faithfully as the Director of Christian Education and
Sunday School Superintendent of Bethel AMEC. He will be greatly missed; however
we praise God for his service in Kingdom-building.
The following information has been provided regarding funeral
arrangements.
Visitation and Funeral, Tuesday, January 31, 2012
Visitation: 10:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.
Funeral: 11:30 a.m.
St. Paul AME Church
1130 South 16th Street
Springfield, IL 62703
Phone: 217-522-4796
Fax: 217-522-2411
The Rev. Galda I. McCants, Pastor
Professional Care entrusted to:
Walker Funeral Home
2300 East Cook Street
Springfield, IL 62703
Phone: 217-753-3783
Fax: 217-362-6221
Words of comfort may be sent to:
The Rev. Cynthia M. Newman
2912 Selkirk Road
Springfield, IL 62702
Phone: 217-528-6156
Email: revcinnamon@yahoo.com
23. CLERGY
FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
We regret to inform you of the passing of Rev. Ladell W. Mayers,
which occurred on Sunday, January 22, 2012. The Rev. Mayers was a retired pastor
from the New Jersey Annual Conference. The following information has been
provided regarding funeral arrangements.
Viewing and Funeral, Monday, January 30, 2012
Viewing: 9:00 a.m. - 11:00
a.m.
Funeral: 11:00 a.m.
Christ Baptist Church
950 Jacksonville Road
Burlington, NJ 08016
Telephone: 609-387-2134
Fax: 609-386-5842
The Rev. Frederick C. Johnson, Pastor
Condolences may be sent to:
Mrs. Angela Nelms (daughter)
15 Holyoke Lane
Willingboro, NJ 08046
Telephone: 609-880-1983
24. CLERGY
FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
We regret to inform you of the passing of Mrs. Linda L. Singleton,
the wife of the Rev. Benjamin Singleton, Jr. who is the pastor of Allen
Memorial AMEC, New York (New York Conference, Brooklyn/West Chester District).
The following information has been provided regarding funeral arrangements.
The viewing and funeral were held on Friday, January 27, 2012
Bridge Street AME Church
277 Stuyvesant Avenue
Brooklyn, NY 11221
Phone: 718-452-3936
Fax: 718-453-4134
The Rev. David B. Cousin, Sr., Pastor
The Rev. Alvan N. Johnson, Presiding Elder, Brooklyn/West Chester
District, was the eulogist.
Burial: St. Stephens, South Carolina
Words of Comfort may be sent to:
The Rev. Benjamin Singleton, Jr.
1309 5th Avenue
New York, NY 10029
25. CLERGY
FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
We regret to inform you of the passing of Mrs. Annie Mae Rhodes
who passed on Friday, January 13, 2012 at the age of 96. Mrs. Rhodes was a
lifetime member of the Women's Missionary Society, a former school teacher and
the widow of the late Rev. Herman A. Rhodes, a retired Presiding Elder in the
First District who passed in 2004.
The following information has been provided regarding funeral
arrangements.
A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday February 18, 2012 at
11:00 a.m.
Ward AME Church
728 N. 43rd Street
Philadelphia PA 19104
Phone: 215-222-7992
Fax: 215-222-9209
The Rev. Terrence C. Hensford, Pastor
Words of Comfort may be sent to:
The family of Mrs. Annie Mae Rhodes
C/o Ward A.M.E. Church
728 N. 43rd Street
Philadelphia, PA 19104
26. CLERGY
FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
We regret to inform you of the passing of Hubert Lee Ricks, Jr.
(June Bug) of Soperton, GA, the nephew of Presiding Elder Ella Mae Samuels.
Hubert Lee Ricks, Jr. was born January 22, 1962 to Hubert Lee
(Sr.) and Burnice Ricks and departed this life on Thursday night, January 19,
2012 in the St. Joseph -Candler Hospital in Savannah, Georgia.
Hubert Lee Ricks, Jr. was preceded in death by his mother, Mrs.
Burnice Ricks. He is survived by his father Mr. Hubert Lee Ricks, Sr. (the
brother of Elder Samuels) and his stepmother, Mrs. Ethel Ricks of Adrian,
Georgia.
Hubert Lee Ricks, Jr. joined the St. Mary Baptist Church in
Adrian, GA at an early age and remained a member until his death.
The funeral was held at Jordan Hill Baptist Church in Adrian GA on
Wednesday, January 25, 2012.
Condolences may be sent to Mr. Hubert Lee Ricks, Sr. Post Office
Box 458 - Adrian, Georgia 31002 or Presiding Elder Ella Mae Samuels - 1047
Huntly Circle - Thomson, GA 30824.
Email: pesmiley@gmail.com
The Vincent R. Drummer Funeral Home of Soperton, GA is in charge
of the funeral arrangements.
27. CLERGY
FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
We regret to inform you of the passing of the Reverend Donald G.
Harwell, former pastor in the Fourth Episcopal District. The Reverend Donald G. Harwell pastored
DuPage AME Church (Lisle, IL); Newman AME Church (Pontiac, MI); and St. Paul
AME Church (Glencoe, IL) before retiring.
He was the Founding Pastor of DuPage AME Church, Lisle, IL, Civil
Rights & Community Activist, Corporate Executive, US Air Force Veteran and
a Former City of Maywood Trustee. He is survived by his wife of 54 years, Edwina,
who lives in Brunswick, Georgia.
DuPage AME Church will host a Memorial Service on Saturday,
January 28, 2012, at 1:00 pm.
DuPage AME Church
4300 Yackley Avenue
Lisle, IL 60532
630-969-9800
630-969-9807 (fax)
www.DuPageAMEC.org
Email: info@dupageamec.org
The Rev. Dr. James F. Miller, Senior Pastor
The Rev. Lana Parks Miller, Executive Pastor
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to:
Totally Free, Inc.
2517 Norwich Street
Brunswick, GA 31520
Online obituary and guest book can be found at: http://obits.dignitymemorial.com/dignity-memorial/obituary.aspx?n=Donald-Harwell&lc=7133&pid=155062617&mid=4923647&locale=en_US#.Twd3g7IDMTU.facebook
Expressions to the family can be sent to:
Edwina Harwell
126 Lakeview Circle
Brunswick, GA 31525
28. CLERGY
FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
We share with regret the passing of Sister Alice Overton, mother
of Sister Zetta Rice and mother-in-law of the Rev. Mason G. Rice, Jr., Pastor
and First Lady of St. James AME Church-Denton, Texas. (Greater Fort Worth
District, P. E. Johnny Ray Mitchell), Northwest Texas Annual Conference. Sister
Overton was ushered by our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ from her earthly home
to her heavenly home on Friday morning, January 13, 2012.
The funeral for Sister Overton was held on Friday, January 20,
2012 at St. Paul AME Church in Cleburne, Texas.
Condolences may be sent to:
The Rev. Mason G. & Mrs. Zetta Rice
2224 Cravens Road
Fort Worth, Texas 76112
Phone: (817) 429-8925
Email: pray730@aol.com
29. CLERGY
FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
We regret to inform you of the passing of Sister Geneva G. Deal,
the mother of Mrs. Marjorie Deal Brown who is the widow of the Rev. Levi Brown.
The members of the Ministers' Spouses, Widows and Widowers Organization, Plus
P.K.'S of the Second Episcopal District African Methodist Church extend
sympathy to their Historiographer in her loss.
The funeral was held on January 21, 2012
Expressions of sympathy may be sent to:
Mrs. Marjorie D. Brown
2709 Kendall Drive
Charlotte, NC 28216
Email: madb38@aol.com
30. CLERGY
FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
We are saddened to inform you of the passing of Mrs. Elaine Tyler,
the mother-in-law of AMEC preacher's kid, Mr. William W. Easley, III and the
mother of Mrs. Sonja Elaine Tyler Easley, the son and daughter-in-law of Dr.
William W. Easley, Jr., Pastor of Taylor Chapel AME Church, Bowling Green,
Kentucky and Mrs. Ora L. Easley, Administrator, The AME Clergy Family
Information Center. William W. Easley,
III and Sonja Elaine Tyler Easley are members of Reid Temple AME Church, Glenn
Dale, Maryland; Dr. Lee P. Washington, Pastor.
Mrs. Elaine Tyler, the wife of Mr. Larry Tyler, mother of Daphne
Pryor (Kenneth), Erik Tyler (Victoria), Sonja Easley (William), and grandmother
of 10 grandchildren; of Washington, D.C. passed away peacefully and quietly in
her sleep following an extended illness.
The funeral was held on January 18, 2012
Expressions of sympathy and messages of condolence may be sent to:
Mr. and Mrs. William W. (Sonja) Easley, III
1612 Monarch Birch Way
Bowie, Maryland 20721
(301) 925-8749
Email Addresses:
(Sonja Tyler Easley) So_bo@hotmail.com
(William W. Easley, III) weasley3@gmail.com
Or to the funeral home (address is above)
And to:
Mr. Larry Tyler & Family
807 Underwood Street, NW
Washington, DC 20012
31. CLERGY
FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
We regret to inform you of the passing of Brother John Brown, the
brother-in-law of the Rev. D. Albert Turk, pastor of Emanuel AMEC (New York
Conference, Manhattan District) and the brother of the first lady of Emanuel,
Mrs. Patricia Turk. The following information has been provided regarding
funeral arrangements.
Viewing and Homegoing Service - Wednesday, January 11, 2012:
10:00 a.m. - Viewing
11:00 a.m. - Home Going Service
Greenidge Funeral Home
301 Absecon Boulevard
Atlantic City, NJ 08401
Phone: 609-345-6305
Fax: 609-345-9088
Condolences may be sent to:
The Rev. D. Albert and Mrs. Patricia Turk
129 Meadow Lane
Marlton, NJ 08053
32. CLERGY
FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
We regret to inform you of the passing of Sister Cecile Frances
Custard, the mother of Mrs. Johnnita F. Holman, the spouse of Pastor A. J.
Holman, Sr., Bethel AME Church, Chattanooga, Tennessee. Sister Custard was an
active member of the Macedonia Baptist Church, Cynthiana, Kentucky.
Please note the following arrangements for Sister Cecile Frances
Custard:
Friday, January 13, 2012
Family Hour: 4:00 PM
Visitation from 5:00 PM- 8:00 PM
Macedonia Baptist Church
103 East Pearl Street
Cynthiana, KY 41031
Phone: 859-234-8373
Saturday, January 14, 2012
A Celebration of Life: 1:00 PM
Macedonia Baptist Church
103 East Pearl Street
Cynthiana, KY 41031
Messages of condolence may be sent to:
Mrs. Johnnita F. Holman
5415 Winniespann Road
Chattanooga, TN 37416
Email condolences may be sent to: johnnitasbouncinbears@yahoo.com
33. CLERGY
FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
We regret to inform you of the passing of Mr. Cecil E. Brannon,
eldest son of Presiding Elder Eugene Brannon (Little Rock District, Arkansas
Annual Conference). Mr. Brannon was an active and committed member of Miles
Memorial Christian Methodist Episcopal Church, Little Rock, Arkansas.
Please note the following arrangements:
The Family hour was held on Tuesday, January 10, 2012.
A Celebration of Life was held on Wednesday, January 11, 2012 at
the Miles Memorial CME Church in Little Rock, Arkansas.
Messages of condolence may be sent to the family via:
Presiding Elder and Mrs. Eugene Brannon and family
1104 Giles Street, Little Rock, Arkansas 72204
(501.663.9625 or 501.554.9699)
34. CLERGY
FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
We are saddened to announce the passing of Sister Sadie L.
Eldridge, the grandmother of Darwin K. Eldridge, Treasurer, Connectional Lay
Organization, African Methodist Episcopal Church
I solicit your prayers in the passing of my grandmother, Sadie L.
Eldridge of Woodlawn, Tennessee. She passed Monday, January 2, 2012 at the age
of 95.
The funeral was held on Saturday, January 7, 2012 at Saint Paul
African Methodist Episcopal Church in Woodlawn, Tennessee.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to:
Saint Paul AME Church Building Fund
P.O. Box 225
Woodlawn, TN 37191
Or,
The African Methodist Episcopal Church Endowment
C/o The Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee
P.O. Box 440225
Nashville, TN 37244-0225
35. CLERGY
FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
We regret to inform you of the passing of Mrs. Hattie Selena
Brumfield, the mother of the Reverend Rochelle M. Brumfield, pastor of Pipkins
Chapel AME Church, Greensburg, Louisiana.
Service arrangements for Mrs. Hattie Selena Brumfield:
Viewing: Friday, January 6, 2012 from 3:00 -7:00 PM
Crain & Sons Funeral Home
2000 Washington Street
Franklinton, Louisiana 70438
Phone: (985) 839-5188
Funeral Service: Saturday, January 7, 2012 at 2:00 PM
Crystal Springs AME Church
23308 Crystal Springs Road /P. O. Box 159
Mount Hermon, Louisiana 70450
Phone: 985-839-5649
The Rev. Ranches L. Hall ~ Pastor, Officiating
Internment Crystal Springs Cemetery
Expressions of sympathy may be sent to:
The Rev. and Mrs. Rochelle M. Brumfield
37770 Thomas Cryer Road
Mount Hermon, Louisiana 70450-3126
Phone: 985-839-6144
Email: RochelleB@Hughes.net
Or Expressions of sympathy may be placed online @
36. CLERGY
FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
In sorrow we record the death of Mrs. Albertine (Abbe) Ramseur
Foster on Tuesday, December 27, 2011. Mrs. Foster was the mother of Dr. Marsha
Foster Boyd, President of Ecumenical Theological Seminary in Detroit, Michigan.
Mrs. Foster was a native of Cleveland County, North Carolina, an educator for
22 years in the Philadelphia (Penna. public schools, and the widow of Dr.
Marcus A. Foster, former Superintendent of the Oakland (CA) Unified School
District, who was assassinated by the Symbionese Liberation Army in 1973. Dr
Boyd is an Itinerant Elder in the AME Church, a member of the Michigan Annual
Conference, and a member of St Andrew AME Church in Detroit where her husband,
Rev Kenneth Boyd serves as pastor.
A Memorial Service for Mrs. Foster was held on Thursday, January
12, 2012, at Taylor Memorial United Methodist Church, 1188 - 12th Street,
Oakland California. In lieu of flowers the family is asking that contributions
be made to Ecumenical Theological Seminary, 2930 Woodward Avenue, Detroit, MI
48201 in memory of Albertine Foster.
Contact Information:
The Rev. Marsha Foster Boyd, PhD, President
Ecumenical Theological Seminary
2930 Woodward Avenue
Detroit MI 48201-3035
313-831-5200, Extension 209
37. CLERGY
FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
It is with deep and heartfelt sympathy to the Rev. William Charles
Legolie II and family that we share the passing of his eldest sister Elizabeth
Magrieta Legolie; the daughter of the
late Rev. and Mrs. Wesley Andrew Legolie I.
We pray that the Holy Spirit will indeed be the Comforter that we
have come to know, as the cold hand of death visits the Legolie family once
again within a span of a couple of days.
Please keep the family in your prayers during this, their time of
challenge.
Contact information for expressing sympathy to the Legolie family:
The Rev. William Charles Legolie II - Phone: 083-260-6879
Email: vaame@mweb.co.za and legolie@mtn.blackberry.com
38. CLERGY
FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
Death Announcement of Dr. Louise C. Wilson York, 14th Episcopal
District
Dr. Louise C. Wilson York departed this life peacefully 11:45 pm
on December 23, 2011 at the John F. Kennedy Memorial Hospital in Monrovia,
Liberia.
Dr. York, a member of the AME Church all her life, faithfully
served the church in numerous capacities both locally and globally including
the following:
- 23 years as President of Monrovia College and Industrial
Training School;
- First President of AME University served nine years;
- Past Episcopal President WMS of the 14th Episcopal District;
- Life member of the Women's Missionary Society of the AME Church;
- Former Vice-Chair of the Steward Board and Member of Eliza
Turner Memorial AME Church serving as Steward Emeritus.
The family can be visited at Dr. York's home in Congo Town or
contacted by phone # 0886516114 or email address: miraclecoop@yahoo.com; the
Rev. Katurah York Cooper, daughter.
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