THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER ONLINE ENGLISH EDITION (10/16/15)

The Right Reverend T. Larry Kirkland - Chair, Commission on Publications

The Reverend Dr. Johnny Barbour, Jr., Publisher

The Reverend Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III, the 20^th Editor, The Christian Recorder

Put this in your bulletin: Change clocks (fall back) to Standard Time on Sunday, November 1, 2015, 2:00 a.m.

Advent begins Sunday, November 29, 2015, and ends Thursday, December 24, 2015.

1. TCR EDITORIAL – TROUBLING DISCORDANT TRENDS IN THE LOCAL CHURCH MUSIC MINISTRY:

Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III

The 20^th Editor of The Christian Recorder

I want to focus on the choir, church music, praise teams, musicians, and ministers of music and choir members. I am seeing a troubling trend in some of our churches and even at some of our connectional meetings.

No one else might be concerned and it just might be my problem. I don’t believe a lot of others are concerned because I don’t hear a lot of people talking about the issue, but I have heard a few - old and young express the same concerns as I. 

I am trying to figure out what might have caused this situation that is so troubling to me. Pastors don’t seem to be concerned because they tolerate the situation. I don’t believe that I have heard anyone preach about it. I haven’t heard a pastor fuss from the pulpit about it. What I perceive as a problem seems to have become the accepted norm.

It might be a generational or age thing.  It might be a cultural phenomenon. I am not sure what it is, but something is going on in many of our churches.

In the spirit of transparency, I have to confess that this situation troubles me so much that it diverts my concentration in worship.

I am certain that some people would say, “It’s not a big thing, don’t let it bother you,” but it does bother me! 

Some of the things that bother me

I attend church to worship. I do not attend church to criticize or find fault and I do not like to be distracted. I appreciate different styles of worship. I can handle contemplative or high praise worship. Whatever style, I want to feel like I am “in church.” I do not treat attending “church” like a sporting or entertainment event.

I personally believe in and was raised with the practice of reverent meditation upon entering the sanctuary and silent prayer upon taking my seat in worship. I understand, as a practice, many parishioners do not do that today. 

If parishioners choose not to engage in silent prayer before worship that does not bother me; I understand people are different and we conduct ourselves differently in worship. 

I am bothered, and it is a distraction for me when choir members meander to the choir loft, chatting and jostling with each other as they amble their way to their seats.

I suspect they mount the choir loft without prayer because they seem to amble their way individually and not as a group, some even rushing to get to their seats. They wander to their seats - no drama, no decorum, just “let’s get this show on the road and get it over with.” I ask myself did they pray before coming into the sanctuary.  Do they pray before choir rehearsal?

I know robes are expensive and in the summertime they might be hot, but if a choir is not going to wear robes, they could, at least, dress uniformly, say, black bottoms and white tops or any uniform color. What is so hard about uniformity? Robes also eliminate concerns about individuals wearing attire unsuitable for the choir loft (clothing that is too tight, too revealing, too short or too fanciful). And, there must be something about chewing gum.  Does chewing gum help choir members to sing better?

And, why would a choir director, pianist, organist, choir president or pastor permit people to enter the choir loft late?  If a choir member can’t get there on time, they should sit in the congregation. Between the choir director, pianist, organist, choir president or pastor, somebody should have the gumption to set some rules and not let people disrespect the worship service.

And, if a musician cannot remain at his or her music post for the entire worship service, the church needs to look for another musician. It is disrespectful for musicians to exit the sanctuary as the preacher is getting ready to preach and then return when it’s time for the hymn of invitation.

What’s the big deal if a worship service doesn’t have instrumental music for a few weeks while looking to replace a dismissed musician? Churches of Christ worship without instrumental music every week and their services are just as meaningful and spiritually uplifting.

And far worse than choir members and musicians meandering to the choir loft are preachers who meander to the pulpit, and sometimes without so much as a personal prayer before beginning the service.

In many of our churches the choir processional and recessionals were unique representation of the AME brand. Folks wanted to get to church on time in order to observe the preachers and choir process into the pulpit and the choir loft. The recessional allows the pastor and choir members to interact more closely with the parishioners and guests. It is interpersonal contact that is so affirming to parishioners.

I wish choir directors and choir members would understand their spiritual responsibilities to which they have been entrusted. I am concerned when it’s evident that a choir has not rehearsed. I am concerned when choir members, especially soloists, have to continuously look at a small scrap of paper scribbled with lyrics in their hands while singing. I am concerned when songs are selected without regard to their theological and biblical focus. I am concerned when choirs, musicians and choir directors are satisfied singing the same songs over and over again.

Choir directors, musicians, choir members, pastors and parishioners would be astonished at the increased spiritual tenor of the worship service if the music staff and pastor worked together to coordinate the musical selections with the scriptures and the sermon.  It takes more work, but the end result is astonishing. The worship service would have a greater cohesiveness and allowing the Presence of the Holy Spirit to intervene would make for a spirit-filled powerful worship service. 

Music was an integral part of the religious life of the Jews. In the Bible, King David told the leaders of the Levites to appoint their brothers as singers to sing joyful songs, accompanied by musical instruments (stringed instruments and cymbals).

Music references are prevalent in the Bible.  When the wall of Jerusalem was dedicated, the Levites were sought out from where they lived and were brought to Jerusalem to joyfully celebrate the dedication of the wall with songs of thanksgiving and with the music of cymbals, harps and lyres.

In a careful reading of the Bible, it is clear that the Bible specifically mentions that singing should be directed to God. The purpose of worship music is not personal gratification, but veneration and worship of God.

Worship music should not be self-centered, but should be God-centered as in, "I will sing unto the Lord as long as I live (Psalm 104:33); I will sing praise to my God while I have any being. (Psalm 146:2).  Psalm 47:6 says, "Sing praises to God, sing praises; sing praises to our King, sing praises." (NIV)

And, that's why I am disturbed when I hear someone say, "He or she (the singer) brought the house down." Religious music is not about the singer, it should be about God. And, equally disturbing is the statement about a preacher: "She or he brought the house down."  We want the Holy Spirit to "shake and bring the house down."

It is our custom in the African Methodist Episcopal Church to place music at the beginning of worship. Placing music at the beginning of worship is consistent with Psalm 100: "Come before His presence with singing." (Verse 2) and "Enter into His gates with thanksgiving, and into His courts with praise" (Verse 4) and it is not by accident that the final sentence in the traditional AME Call to Worship proclaims, "O Sing unto the Lord a new song, for he has done marvelous things. Make a joyful noise unto the Lord, all the earth, sing praises.”

                                

Many of us have heard the statement, “Put it in a book or print and they will never see it.” 

Since the seventies and eighties churches have more musicians who play by ear rather than by music.  And, sometimes the musicians who play by ear fail to avail themselves of music resources that would be helpful to them.

The 1954 AMEC Hymnal is an excellent resource about Methodist Hymnody beginning on Page 534 and beginning on Page 543 there is an extensive historical treatment of the African Methodist Episcopal Church, which would give today’s musicians an appreciation of our contribution to hymnody and gospel music. Richard Allen published the first AME Hymnal in 1818. Many credit the Baptists with great singing, but the Methodists were known as the “singing Methodists.”  Thomas Dorsey contributed significantly to gospel music, but he was influenced by a Methodist preacher, the Rev. Dr. Charles Albert Tindley who was a prolific writer of gospel songs.

Musicians who play by ear would benefit from studying books like Music Theory for Idiots or Music Theory for Dummies.  They are easy books to read and they have a wealth of information about music.

Excellent choirs with committed choir members rehearse. Excellent choir directors have a vast repertoire of music and understand the importance of coordinating with the pastor. And knowledgeable pastors understand the importance of close interaction with their musicians. 

Committed musicians understand serving as a choir member, musician or choir director is not a job; it’s a ministry.

It is not a musician’s job to try to control the tempo of the worship with the wonderful sounding fancy seventh or minor chords.  The music can enhance or decrease the spiritual tenor of worship and musicians should be enablers and enhance worship, not be a hindrance to spiritual worship. It’s tempting for musicians to “hijack” the worship service. It’s power and sometimes power that can exceed the power of the preacher.

I am concerned when musicians arrive at the last minute or late because it takes energy away from the focus on worship and the sermon. Instead of focusing on worship and the sermon, the music and the activities that go on in the choir loft become a distraction. 

I am concerned when the music and worship are done in such a manner that parishioners don’t feel the need to arrive at the beginning of worship and feel comfortable arriving late.

It’s a distraction to me when choir members are mumbling in the choir loft or when they are making signals to friends in the congregation. I wish all of the people in the music ministry would be diligent in their responsibilities to the ministry of the church.

And, a couple of more things

Praise leaders and preachers, please don’t try to tell me and the other parishioners how we should respond to the music and if we don’t respond in a certain way, we are not filled with the Spirit.

Sing praises to God and preach God’s Word and let the Holy Spirit do its work. God does not need help from you.

Please select songs that are biblically and theologically sound. Don’t be moved by the music, be moved by the words. I heard a beautiful musically written gospel song, a wonderfully catchy tune, but the words were not theological. The words of the song intoned, “God, we give you grace.”  I was flabbergasted. God does not need our grace; we need God’s grace in the sense that “God’s grace is sufficient for us.”

The African Methodist Episcopal Church was known for its excellent music programs and its music versatility. Our choirs and congregation could sing hymns, gospel songs, spirituals, and anthems.  AME Churches had trained musicians and musicians who play by ear. The AME Church had different choirs to sing on different Sundays.  Most churches had a senior or chancel choir, a gospel choir, a young people’s or young adult choir, a cherub choir and a men’s chorus, but sadly today many of our churches have only one choir and if they are blessed, they might be able to put together a choir for special days, like Women's or Men’s Day. 

We have troubling discordant trends in many of our local church music ministry programs that need to be reversed.

Prayer and a better understanding and teaching of the Bible are the best ways to reverse the trend. We need to do something. 

2.  TCR-OP-ED - 2015 FALL INGREDIENTS FOR AN EFFECTIVE COMMUNITY:

*The Reverend Timothy Sands, MScM, M.Div.

Unfortunately, there are organizations from the public as well as private sectors and yes even our places of worship are suffering because of ineffective leadership.  So for transformation to occur the leadership team needs to secure certain traits or qualities.  Once leaders ascertain those qualities, typically families, as well as organizations will steer clear of any downfall.

For example, for a church to thrive spiritually, and yes numerically, Pastors must be the example or set the tone on being friendly.  I am not saying this will make the unreasonable, grumpy and disagreeable obsolete, but it will alleviate and lessen the unfriendliness in that particular environment.

       

Some leaders are inattentive, and that will cause stagnation in an organization.  In other words, he or she takes their eye off the goal that can result in organization demise.  Further, everyone within an organization should be treated equally as overlooking another individual is disrespectful. 

Specifically, I am amenable with the Rev. Dr. Sydnor’s comments during October 9^th editorial in The Christian Recorder. The Rev. Dr. Calvin Sydnor mentioned, “on the other hand, do not show favoritism by singling out some people for their service while ignoring others.”  So “esteem them very highly in love because of their work.  Be at peace among yourselves” (1 Thessalonians 5:13, New Revised Standard Version).

       

Thus, effective leadership provides the platform and model that dictates the atmosphere.  If you as a leader set the tone of being duplicitous with your subordinates, this will show with your peers, parishioners, and the public as well as the customers.  Therefore, if a leader receives a complaint on their subordinate, he or she should evaluate the entire picture.  The entire picture should include, who is the individuals voicing their concern as well as his or her behavioral patterns?  Also, the context in which the subordinate operates in and at the end of the day; it is all about situational leadership.

       

Moreover, senior leadership should offer words of wisdom but offer reassurance, backing and be empathetic.  Although an athlete may make the wrong play, miss a tackle or an overall assignment, the leader should share his or strengths and courage in their sufferings as well as dilemmas.  So “bear one another’s burdens, and in this way you fulfill the law of Christ” (Galatians 6:2, New Revised Standard Version). 

Sometimes as a leader there must be a mix methods approach of being arrogant as well as humble to convey a particular message.  The key is to do things in love.  Nevertheless, “Let us always meet each other with smile, for the smile is the beginning of love.” ~Mother Teresa

*The Reverend Timothy Sands, MScM, M.Div.is the senior pastor at Grays Chapel AME Church in Yatesville, Georgia

3. READER RESPONSE TO EDITORIAL AND OTHER ISSUES: 

-- Letter to the Editor

RE: “Sidewalk Theological Seminary”

I enjoyed reading your post, “Sidewalk Theological Seminary” and would like to respectively submit that pastors/laity should educate members on the breakdown of monies collected for annual conferences/assessments. We are losing so many members because they say the church is always “begging” for money to go to the bishop. I had explain recently to a couple who in my church, (when I suggested they attend the annual conference and support our pastor) that they did not have to “pay” to attend. They said that they never attended before because they thought you had to pay to attend.

I explained that an offering would be held but there was not an “entrance” fee for conference. There are so many members who associate annual conferences with “raising” money for the bishop and don’t understand what the money is being used to enhance; we really need to do a better job of educating our members of the breakdown of where money is transferred to at the conference levels.

Lisa C. Ukuku

Lay Member of Mt. Zion AME Church, Goose Creek, SC;

The Rev. John Mack, pastor

Home Church, Jericho AME Church, Beaufort, SC;

The Rev. James Mack, Pastor

4. NEWS AROUND THE AME CHURCH:

-- Georgia's Stone Mountain to be topped by MLK tribute...CNN International –

In the aftermath of the killings of nine African-Americans at Charleston, South Carolina's, historic Emanuel African Methodist Episcopal Church in June...

Read more: http://www.cnn.com/2015/10/12/living/stone-mountain-mlk-tower-feat/index.html

-- Campaigners seek Nobel nomination for Charleston AME church

A campaign has been mounted for the Charleston Church where nine black worshipers were killed by a racist to be nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize for its peaceful response to the act of violence, according to Chicago Sun Times

Read more: http://www.christiantoday.com/article/charleston.church.nominated.for.the.nobel.peace.prize/67703.htm 

-- Charleston Strong jerseys to be auctioned online via NHL auctions

The jerseys will be worn on Opening Night only as part of Mother Emanuel AME Church Family Night, an evening to honor and remember individuals...

Read more: http://counton2.com/2015/10/15/charleston-strong-jerseys-to-be-auctioned-online-via-nhl-auctions/ 

-- Historic Big Bethel AME launches $120 million redevelopment

The historic Big Bethel AME Church on Auburn Avenue – home to the iconic “Jesus Saves” sign – is launching a $120 million redevelopment project

Read more: http://www.atlantaintownpaper.com/2015/10/historic-big-bethel-ame-launches-120-million-redevelopment/

5. AME COLLEGE CORNER: -- SOME EXCELLENT ADVICE FOR HIGH SCHOOL SENIORS

Lieutenant Colonel Claude Vann shares some great advice with high school students.

“While I served as an Assistant Professor of Military Science (1989-1994), I encountered too many qualified students who did not know about the 4-year ROTC Scholarship.  It was appalling that High School Counselors were not pushing students to compete for this scholarship.  I always tell students to apply... you can always turn down the scholarship if you feel you have better scholarships.  Once you get to the University and get a taste of the tuition bill, it will make you realize the Army ROTC Scholarship is an outstanding opportunity.  There are Army ROTC Scholarships once you get to college, but the competition becomes very keen. Please get this out to the high school students in your area.

Every ROTC program wants top quality students, but that does not always mean the person with the best SAT score, GPA, or highest class standing… some of the best officers that I know did not fall into those three categories. Look at General Colin Powell.  HOOAH!

The National Army ROTC Scholarship information is appended below. There is still time.

LTC - Retired Claude Vann III

National Army ROTC Scholarship:

The application opens in mid-JUNE. The application closes 10 January

1. Complete the online application: Go to http://www.goarmy.com/rotc/high-school-students/four-year-scholarship.html and create an account (Remember your username/id and password) and then register and login. Complete the application. List a minimum of three school choices, in preference order. Write a short statement on “Why you want to be an Army officer,” in a Word document and then cut and paste into the application.

2. 1^st action after you complete your application: Have your official high school transcripts sent to US Army Cadet Command: Have your high school counselor send an official copy of your transcript to:

The U.S. Army ROTC Scholarship

U.S. Army Cadet Command Bldg. 1002,

204 1^st Cavalry Regt Road

Fort Knox, KY 40121-5123

3. 2^nd action after you complete your application: Request your ACT or SAT to send your official results to US Army Cadet Command: Army ROTC code for the SAT is 0454. The code for the ACT is 1676. USACC super scores so you can submit as many test results as you want to be as competitive as possible for the scholarship.

4. Complete the Presidential Fitness Test (PFT): The test consists of 1-minute of push-ups, 1-minute of curl-ups and a 1-mile run. The test can be administered by a PE teacher, sports coach or JROTC instructor. Your results are very important so prepare and do the very best you can. Download an ROTC Physical Assessment Form located at the bottom of page of the scholarship link (above). Fax completed form to (502) 624-1120 or scan and attach to an email: usarmy.knox.usacc.mbx.train2lead@mail.mil

5. Complete an interview with an Army ROTC program:

YOU must call and set up an appointment with a Professor of Military Science at the closest ROTC program or at the school of your choice. Remember, you are applying for a scholarship; dress professionally, bring a resume and prepare for the interview.

The 1^st Board is in mid-October. Documents are due by the end of September/beginning of October. The 2^nd Board is early January. Documents are due by the third week of December. The 3^rd Board is early March. Documents are due by the end of February.

Any questions contact LTC Claude Vann Ltcvann@aol.com; telephone: (757) 218-3698

6. TURNER CHAPEL AME CHURCH, MARIETTA, GA HOSTS 6^TH ANNUAL COLLEGE FAIR:

Turner Chapel AME Church, Marietta, GA Hosts 6^th Annual College Fair as part of role to close achievement gap and expand college access

MARIETTA, GA October 12, 2015 (Turner Chapel AME Church) -- The Turner Chapel AME Church Education Ministry (Marietta, GA), hosts its 6th annual college fair, beginning with a pre-college fair workshop by author and education ministry leader, Mychal Wynn, based on his new book, “Show Me the Money: A Comprehensive Guide to Scholarships, Financial Aid, and Making the Right College Choice,” from 10:30 am - 11:30 a.m. The college fair runs from Noon to 3:00 p.m. and is FREE to the public.

The 50 participating colleges, including Harvard, MIT, Duke, Purdue, and Syracuse, represent HBCUs, public and private institutions, military service academies, and technical colleges. The fair will offer workshops and resources, such as the Gates Millennium Scholars Program, Questbridge Program, Posse Foundation Program, and Georgia Finance Commission.

The Turner Chapel AME Church, a 5000-member congregation in Marietta, Georgia, led by the Rev. Dr. Kenneth E. Marcus (senior pastor) and the Rev. Cassandra Y. Marcus (co-pastor), has received national acclaim for serving as a model of how faith-based institutions can support academic achievement, close the college knowledge gap, expand college access, and guide students into earning millions of dollars in scholarships. The church boasts of having 5 Gates Millennium Scholars, 3 Posse Foundation Scholars, and students admitted into America’s most selective colleges and universities.

Youth pastor, the Rev. Don Ezell, notes, “Our annual college fair is part of a comprehensive approach to inspiring, supporting, informing, and preparing students for college and careers. In 2014, students participating in our annual college planning cohort were offered over $4.3 million in scholarships and financial aid from over 125 colleges and universities—including such highly selective colleges as Cornell, Spelman, Morehouse, Xavier University (LA), Pomona College, Williams College, Wake Forest, University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill, Boston University, and Syracuse University.”

Emmy award-winning poet, Hank Stewart, whose foundation (The Stewart Foundation) is a partner, says, “The Turner Chapel AME Church Education Ministry is a national leader in establishing a clear role for faith-based institutions to encourage and support academic achievement for students from underrepresented and marginalized communities. Mychal and Nina Wynn are providing tremendous leadership through their example of what the clergy and community-based organizations can do to supplement and support local schools.”

The annual college fair is coordinated by Dawn Hoskin and a team of volunteers who are committed to ensuring that all students, from all backgrounds, have the opportunity to pursue their college/career aspirations. Students in the past have received on the spot admissions and scholarship offers from college representatives.

For additional information, contact Dawn and Eric Hoskin/College Fair Co-Chairpersons at Turner Chapel AME Church, Marietta, Georgia; telephone: (770) 891-0861; email: tcccollegefair@gmail.com or tcceducationministry@accessandequity.org; website: www.turnerchapelame.org

Submitted by the Rev. Dr. Yolanda A. Davis

7. REFLECTIONS ON THE VISIT OF POPE FRANCIS TO THE UNITED STATES:

John Thomas III

From September 22-27, 2015 Pope Francis conducted his first Papal visit to the United States—becoming the fourth Pope to do so.   His itinerary concentrated on the East coast with visits to Washington DC, New York and Philadelphia.  Through his homilies and public remarks, he presented himself as a person trying to emulate the Christ-like traits of humility, reconciliation and concern for the “least of these” in the hopes that others would follow his example.    Even though African Methodists have long since separated doctrinally from the Roman Catholic Church, this visit does provide useful points for reflection—particularly as our Zion progresses toward the Bicentennial of the AME Church.

First, let’s look at how the Papal visit modeled social justice.  Pope Francis intentionally involved immigrants and prisoners, and homeless people in the core activities of his visit.  By not only visiting but also worshipping in a prison, he brought a sense of camaraderie and comfort.  After addressing Congress, he chose to bless the meal at a homeless shelter instead of stay for lunch at the Capitol.   It was clear that his actions were not just symbolic, but were undergirded by true humility.  This concern for the “least of these” is deeply embedded in our roots in the Free African Society.  How can we lift this legacy through our ministries at all levels?  How can we express our solidarity for the “least of these” both inside our congregations and the communities we serve?

Next, a look at inclusivity. At the various public worship experiences, great lengths were made to look for gender and ethnic balance. African-Americans only comprise three million of the some 70 million Roman Catholics in the United States, yet gospel music was interwoven into the masses along with other musical genres.   The Pope also visited Catholic schools that serve a predominately poor African-American population in Philadelphia as well as Latino immigrant day laborers.  The AME Church is the world’s oldest Pan-African organization in existence with a presence in 39 countries.  What do “inclusion” and “diversity” mean for us?  How can our Connectional ministries serve and nurture the rich mosaic that is African Methodism?

While the teachings of the Roman Catholic Church with regards to marriage are clear, Pope Francis has also made clear his intention to engage in issues of sexuality with an open mind and reconciling spirit.   .   In the AME Church, our discussion on issues of sexuality has centered on legal positions and consequences.  The issue of sexuality in the Black Church still remains an “elephant in the room”.  Is there space for a different discussion from a ministerial and pastoral perspective? 

Finally, a reflection on Pope Francis’s perspective on measuring ministry.  In his homily at St. Francis’ Cathedral in New York, the Holy Father observed:

“We can get caught up measuring the value of our apostolic works by the standards of efficiency, good management and outward success which govern the business world. Not that these things are unimportant! We have been entrusted with a great responsibility, and God’s people rightly expect accountability from us. But the true worth of our apostolate is measured by the value it has in God’s eyes.”

In a culture, where pastors are encouraged to produce “results” to get promoted and corporate terminology is creeping into our mindset, are we running  the risk of losing sight of our mission?  Do we need to reevaluate how we discuss ministry and finance across the Connectional Church?  What about the age old tension between quality of service versus quantity of those served?

The visit of Pope Francis to the United States was historic and its impact will continue to reverberate for some time both within the Roman Catholic faith and beyond.  As we look towards our Bicentennial General Conference, the examples of Pope Francis in social justice, inclusivity and valuing of ministry give us places where we can objectively analyze our own good works for God’s Kingdom.

John Thomas III is a PhD student in the Political Science Department at the University of Chicago and a member of the General Board.

8. MESSAGE FROM THE OFFICE OF THE AME GENERAL SECRETARY:

"As we prepare for the upcoming 50^th Quadrennial Session of the General Conference, it is the goal of the Office of the General Secretary to ensure you feel prepared.  The General Secretary's Office will publish a monthly newsletter that will offer important tidbits and resources along this journey to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania!

We know that many of you already own a smart device of some kind.  Whether it is an iPad, Samsung Note, laptop or a MacBook, we will offer helpful advice leading up to General Conference 2016 to ensure that you have all of your resources on your own device. 

The AME Church App and the AME Meeting App work on Apple, Microsoft, and Android platforms, and we will provide daily updates based on the work of the church in general sessions.  We are also working to ensure that WI-FI is available-more information to come.  It is our goal to be innovative while offering support to ensure that your "paperless transition" is a smooth one. 

 

Feel free to email us at thepaperlesscio@gmail.com with your questions about the BYOD efforts.  We will answer your questions through this newsletter."

9. STEWARD AT ST. PAUL AME CHURCH IN LENOIR, NORTH CAROLINA HONORED:

Steward Patricia Ferguson Beane received an honorary Bachelor’s Degree from Appalachian State University during their Celebration of Integration event held earlier this month. In addition, she received the Appalachian State University Alumni Association’s Black and Gold Medallion in recognition of her “historic contribution to the institution.”

In 1963, Steward Beane was the first African American to live on the Campus of Appalachian University. Pat’s dream was to become a music teacher in the public schools of her home, Caldwell County, NC. She joined the band, the Marching Mountaineers, where she was a trail blazer as the only African-American member of the band. 

Steward Beane tells the story that one day returning from an away football game, three bus loads of band members stopped at a restaurant for dinner. Everyone was served water and given a menu, except Pat. One member of the band seeing what happened pointed out to the waiter that he had missed giving Pat a menu. The waiter’s response was that we don’t serve “N---- here!

Then something unusual for 1963 in the South happened. “The entire band stood up, placed their menus on their tables and walked out of the restaurant,” Pat said that this was a life-changing experience. When we feel alone, God can move in mysterious ways. Pat knows that not only was she changed at the moment; but, so too were the band members who walked out.

Steward Beane had to leave the university in 1966 to help her parents care for her siblings without completing her studies. On October 2, 2015, Steward Patricia Ferguson Beane was awarded the honorary Bachelor’s degree with all rights and privileges authorized by the Board of Trustee of Appalachian State University. On Sunday during Worship, the Pastor, Rev. Dr. Byron J. Grayson, Sr. presented the Degree to Steward Beane and the entire church body joined in her celebration. St. Paul is proud of Steward Patricia Ferguson Beane, a college graduate.

10. HANDLING TOXIC PEOPLE:

The Reverend Jarrett B. Washington

10 Jesus said to him, "He who is bathed needs only to wash his feet, but is completely clean; and you are clean, but not all of you." 11 For He knew who would betray Him; therefore He said, "You are not all clean."

John 13:10, 11

The other day I was reading an article by Jonathan Long entitled "8 Toxic Types of People You Should Keep Out of Your Life."  In the article, Jonathan Long addresses how toxic people have the ability to steal one's hopes, dreams and desires.  In thinking about toxicity of this life, I stumbled upon the text of John 13 where we find one of the greatest biblical narratives known to humankind.  In what is known as the Last Supper the reader sees Jesus preparing for his departure.  Jesus calls his disciples together one last time to share in the feast of the Passover and to ultimately give of his service by washing their feet. Many around this table do not want Jesus to go, but the truth is: Jesus has to go and do what He is called to do.

When looking for toxic people in the bible, many times the mind gravitates towards people like Joseph's brothers who threw him in the pit; or maybe Cain who killed Abel; or even Goliath, the enemy of David, but what is horrifying is there is the description of toxic people around the table of the Last Supper.  Judas, the one Jesus chose to be his friend, and companion for well over 3 years was toxic.  He was lying.  He was deceitful, and finally sells Jesus out for 30 pieces of silver, the cost of one slave in those times.  He was a betrayer.  He was simply toxic.  But isn't it true many of us have toxic people in and around our lives? They are the kind of people that seem to change the very air of the room when they walk in the doors.  Some know the best liars, cheaters, betrayers, backbiters, and gossipers known to man; some know people who are hateful and destructive; some have folk in their lives who never want to see them prosper; simply put, some of us interact with toxic people all the time.

Jesus reminds us around about the eleventh verse of John 13 that even though you are sitting at my table; even though, I am on bended knees washing the very crust from your feet, there are some of you who are still not clean.  When you are not clean, you are in fact, by biblical nomenclature, toxic. Everything about you is dirty.   Yet, I contend many times if it were not for the toxic people who almost made me give up, but I didn't, I wouldn't be where God wants me to be.

         

In Long's article there is a discussion of the various toxic people we encounter.  He argues that there will be judgmental people.  Judgmental people will always find a way to criticize anything and everything they come in contact with.  You could waste your time trying to explain to them how something works or ought to be and they will always come to a different conclusion.  They are toxic, so don't allow them to block your destiny.

          

There will be the envious person.  Envious people will never be happy for you.  They feel that it should happen to them and nobody else.  They want everything you have, but don't want to go through what you went through to get where you are.  Some folk see the outside, but don't know the pain and the heartache you went through to be who you are today.  They are toxic, so move beyond what they think of you.

          

There is the control freak.  Control freaks don't ever want to listen because they know how to do things better than you, me, or anybody else.  Peter, in John 13 showed he was a control freak.   Jesus in the text was trying to tell the disciples that he would wash their feet, and Peter, being the control freak that he was, was trying to tell Jesus that he didn't just need his feet washed, but he needed his hands, his head, and ultimately his whole body to be made clean.  Many times, God wants to heal us.  God wants to bless us.  But since some of us know better than God, we try to tell God how to do it.  This is toxic behavior and it blocks you from reaching the places God has for you.

           

Finally, there are liars and gossipers.  These two are the most prevalent in today's society.  To be successful you have to surround yourself with other successful individuals that you can trust and count on to be there for you.  You can't trust liars and it's hard to count on them because you never know if they are lying are telling the truth.  The same is true with gossipers.  You never know if they are listening to you because they want to share your story or are they really concerned.  Judas was both a liar and a gossiper.  He lied on the living Christ and even gossiped untruths to the leaders of the synagogue so that Jesus would be killed. He was toxic.

         

As you go through today, I believe deep down on the inside all of us need toxic people like a Judas in our life at some point, because it is our Judas that helps us to really get everything God has for us.  Every now and then you ought to thank God for the folk who claimed you would never make it; you ought to thank God for the folk who said you would be nothing; you ought to thank God for the people who lied on you; because when God does what God says He's going to do, its going to be those same folk looking at you wondering how you did what you did.

11. EMERGING ALIGNED MESSAGES:  POPE FRANCIS AND PAN-AFRICAN RELIGIOUS LEADERSHIP:

The Rev. Dr. Angelique Walker-Smith

I was on a conference call recently with Oprah Winfrey and a diverse group of national religious leaders concerning her new television series, “Belief.” During the call, she was asked by a national Catholic leader what she thought about the pope’s recent visit to the United States.  She responded saying she was taken the most by the pope’s spirit and   countenance, which she thought was so inviting and special.

She said that spirit was reflected when he asked the crowd gathered at the Speakers Balcony on Capitol Hill to pray for him and if they were not practitioners of prayer to at least extend him good wishes.

Winfrey’s sentiment is an appropriate starting point to reflect on the content and messaging of Pan-African religious leaders historically and the pope’s recent visit to the United States.   One can easily point to specific references during the pope’s visit where his concern for people of African descent was evident. He mentioned the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. during his speech to Congress. During his address to the United Nations he spoke about the painful situation in the Sudan and other African countries. He visited a Catholic Church in Harlem, New York and a correctional facility in Pennsylvania.

The thread that tied all these visits and references to those of African descent was the pope’s Christian spirit of inclusion.

Many may agree that the attitude and practice of inclusion of all of humankind and the rest of God’s creation is a true sign of God’s spirit and countenance. The God given gift of inclusion is also what is at stake in the conversation about race and racism.  Historically, religious leaders of African descent here, and all over the world, have decried discrimination as an attitude and practice that works against this hospitable posture. Indeed, such attitudes and practices have not only contributed to harm among individual relationships but communal relationships that reside in structures and systems locally, nationally, and globally.

Now that Pope Francis has left, we are still left with the same question that lingered before his visit, “Where do we go from here?”  The Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. echoed the same sentiment in his speech, “Where do we go from here? Chaos or Community?” not long before his martyrdom and suggested chaos or beloved community were our options. Some may argue that the idea of inclusion is a path to the beloved community and discrimination leads us to chaos.

Bread for the World has opted to build community since 1974 and this was the case again during the pope’s visit. Bread organized an interfaith dinner attended by approximately 100 religious leaders, and also coordinated a press conference to announce that the leaders had made a pledge to end hunger by 2030.

The signatories of the statement, and attendees of the dinner and press conference, included national and global religious leaders of African descent. Moreover, religious leaders of African descent also signed the “Ending Extreme Poverty: A Moral and Spiritual Imperative” statement created by the World Bank that calls for an end to hunger and poverty by 2030. More than 30 leaders from major world religions and heads of global faith-based organizations, including Rev. David Beckmann, president of Bread for the World, signed the statement.

These statements for mobilizing convey a spirit of inclusion for all. Specifically, they are calls to end hunger and to eliminate extreme poverty in our world for all by 2030. May our prayers, good wishes, and inclusive actions let it be so.

*The Rev. Dr. Angelique Walker-Smith is the senior associate for national African American church engagement at Bread for the World.

12. THREE WAYS CHURCHES ARE USING TEXT MESSAGING FOR GOOD:

By Tricia Brown

Carrying a cellphone has become as commonplace as it once was to carry a wallet or a purse, perhaps even more so. In 2014, 81 percent of American adults who owned smartphones used a short messaging service (SMS). Texting seems to be the preferred form of everyday communication for many, so it only seems logical to explore the various ways churches can utilize this technology.

1) Communicating

Many churches find texting especially handy to send mass communications for:

- Alerting congregants of time changes and cancellations

- Sending event invitations and reminders

- Announcing births and deaths and arrangements for celebrations and funerals

- Communicating special needs or prayer concerns

- Requesting feedback on various ministry issues

Using a mass-text service, a church administrator can enter all participant names and numbers once and then, when needed, type one text and send it to all participants. Many services allow you to set up automations so texts can be scheduled ahead of time.

Global communications

During the Ebola crisis, SMS became an effective tool for reaching clergy in Liberia and Sierra Leone who lacked critical, lifesaving information. Faith leaders were key in adding credibility to these messages. Ken Banks, who developed a short messaging system used by The United Methodist Church during the Ebola crisis says, “Modern, sexy stuff rarely works in many of the places where SMS still works.” It's the "dumbest" technology that often has the most profound effect.

In Kamina, DRC, SMS provides a means of drug-stock monitoring so patients can be treated when diagnosed.

In Zimbabwe, SMS allows communication between Nyadire Hospital and its community health workers — helping to save undue and expensive travel.

United Methodist Communications ICT4D Church Initiatives is working with the staff of episcopal areas in Africa and the Philippines to utilize SMS as an alternative to email, which requires expensive Internet, electricity and computers. Keeping phones charged is more cost-effective as they can be paired with a low-cost solar cellphone charger.

Learn more about how United Methodist Communications is working to open global communications throughout the church at www.umcom.org/global.

2) Giving

Many people no longer carry cash, and some (especially those of the younger generation) don’t write checks. Text-giving, also known as mobile giving has become one of the newest ways to make giving easy. It works like this.

-  The church administration signs up for a texting service.

- Once the service has been contracted, your church receives a number or code that you can give to your congregants.

- Givers simply text the given code and dollar amount to a certain number in order to make a donation.

Different providers offer different services. Some services (usually associated with $5 or $10 gifts) do not require any additional information from the giver. The amount is simply sent to the giver’s phone carrier and appears on the next billing statement. Other services (sometimes referred to as text donations) offer givers a way to donate much larger amounts by having the giver provide banking or credit-card information.

Many churches offer mobile giving to promote consistent giving and reach church members. However, it also comes in handy for special requests (such as missions giving opportunities or benevolence issues) for which congregants may not be prepared to give any other way. Some providers, such as Give By Cell, even offer a “text pledge” service for fundraising campaigns.

3) Worshipping

In addition to giving and communication, some churches use texting in more innovative ways. One UMC pastor in Missouri decided to encourage his parishioners, not only to text him, but also to do so during the service. He answered some of the texts during his sermon and replied to the others afterward.

Another pastor announced the topic of the message and encouraged his Sunday morning crowd to text friends and invite them to “come on over” or to attend a later service. Many pastors, youth leaders and Sunday school teachers use texts to send weekly encouragements and Bible verses to congregants and class members. Private texting groups through services such as groupme can also be used to send class announcements and reminders, as well to promote further discussion of Bible study-related topics.

Getting started

When setting up text-giving or mass texting for your congregation, your church will have to subscribe to a texting service. A variety of mobile giving services are available, including E-Zekiel, Simple Give, Easy Tithe and mgive. Texting services and costs vary. Churches must decide which one is right for them. In doing so, keep in mind a few important points. The first is affordability. Other factors to consider include:

Security: Look for a company that has many safeguards and policies to prevent fraud. Ask about privacy issues and how givers’ information is stored and kept secure.

Simplicity: Find a company that is simple to use, not only for congregants but also for your church administration. Consider how text databases must be created and how easy or hard it will be to organize, schedule and send texts and to receive feedback. If you are considering a text-giving provider, ask yourself the following questions:

• Do we need to fundraise a large amount for a specific need, or are we more interested in long-term, consistent giving?

• Do we want givers to have the ability to text large amounts (more than just $5 or $10)?

• If so, will our givers feel comfortable providing banking or credit-card information to this institution?

• How simple will the actual process of text-giving be?

How you answer these questions will play a large part in determining what kind of plan you need.

Service: For text-giving services, you may consider whether the company managing the text-giving has a program that will integrate with your current church financial programs or if it offers another method to track donations so that you need not manually enter them, line by line.

Another important consideration is timing. Clarify how soon the contributions will be credited to the church’s bank account, if it will be an automatic deposit or if a check will be cut and sent. If a donation must be cleared by the giver’s financial institution and received by the texting service before it is turned over to your church, you will most likely not receive it in a timely manner. In some cases, it could take months.

For any texting service, also ask what kinds of customer support are available should givers have questions, concerns or problems.

Since choosing a service can be overwhelming, you may want to check out a guide on how to choose a texting provider and a list of bulk text-message service providers.

Next time you see someone use their phone in church; don’t think of it as a faux pas. Think creatively. Think out-of-the-box. Think nontraditional, and find a way to use texting as a tool in your ministry.

*Used with permission of the United Methodist News Service

13. WHO GUIDES THE PASTORS WE TURN TO FOR GUIDANCE:

We all have known mentors, heroes, teachers, guides, gurus, supporters, advisors, and others who made us who we are. Through word and example, they show us the way in life, faith, and work.

Our United Methodists pastors are often those to whom we turn for spiritual guidance, but who leads them? We asked several pastors to talk about the people who shaped their lives.

The Rev. Jean Lofsvold Schwien was advised to "keep your options open," when she began exploring a call to ordained ministry at age 13.

Keep your options open

The Rev. Jean Lofsvold Schwien of Christ United Methodist Church in Salt Lake City, Utah, first felt called to ministry at the age of 13. “I returned from a literal and spiritual ‘mountain top’ experience at church camp,” she recalls. “I walked into my pastor’s office, plopped down on his couch, and announced: ‘Ron, I think I want to be a minister.’ The Rev. Ron Hodges looked at me for a moment before replying, ‘Well, I think you should keep your options open.’”

Throughout her journey toward ordination, Hodges “nurtured me into ministry. [He] planted seeds of opportunity for service in the church and then graciously allowed those seeds time to sprout, grow and mature.”

Fifteen years after that post-camp conversation, Hodges stood beside Schwien as she was ordained an Elder in Full Connection in the United Methodist Church. She says, “He gave me a congratulations card that read: ‘Keep your options open.’”

The Rev. Jon Van Dop (l) received his ordination stole and some encouraging sticky notes from his mentor, the Rev. Larry Brown (r).

Sticky notes of encouragement

The Rev. Jon Van Dop of First United Methodist Church in Ionia, Michigan was assigned his mentor as part of the ordination process. He reports that the Rev. Larry Brown “was an excellent listener and answered my questions based out of his years of experience.”

Brown’s influence extended further. “His wife Beverly mentored my wife Darcie while he was mentoring me,” Van Dop fondly remembers. “My wife was new to being a clergy spouse and it was a great blessing to her to be able to have someone to call during celebrations and challenges alike.”

Following his ordination, Van Dop was appointed to follow his mentor. In the office that so recently had been Brown’s; Van Dop says he "would occasionally find little notes in desk drawers or on top of books that were meant to encourage me and direct me to the ‘important’ stuff. Rev. Brown took the time to make sure that I was set up for a successful start in Ionia. I've been blessed to have the opportunity to live into his legacy.”

Our United Methodist pastors are often those to whom we turn for guidance, but who leads them?

A much larger scale

Long before he became the Associate Executive Director of Path 1 with Discipleship Ministries of The United Methodist Church, the Rev. Doug Ruffle served as a pastor in Argentina. It was there his Regional Superintendent the Rev. Hugo Urcola, became a mentor.

The Rev. Jacquelin Ford did not recognize the impact of her mentor until years later.

The first years of Ruffle’s ministry were during a time when a military dictatorship ruled Argentina. When democracy was restored, Urcola was selected to assist the Comisión Nacional sobre la Desaparición de Personas (National Commission on the Disappearance of Persons). The work of Urcola and other Methodist leaders shaped Ruffle’s ministry.

“These mentors helped me understand the vital role the church can play to address issues of justice and human rights on a much larger scale,” Ruffle explains.

No need to go it alone

Some pastors, like the Rev. Robert Greene of First United Methodist Church, Vidalia, Georgia, intentionally seek out a guide. “Very early in my ministry, I realized that the challenges of ministry were too great and the stakes too high to try to ‘go it alone,’” he shares.

He began to learn from the Rev. Bill Bouknight who “has been one of several mentors the Lord has blessed me with in my ministry.”

“One of the primary things Bill has taught me is to ask daily for the Holy Spirit to guide me,” Greene shares. “So often we can depend upon the latest book or the newest ministry programs when through the Spirit we have at our disposal divine wisdom and strength which are applicable in absolutely any context.”

Recognized later

The Rev. Jacqueline Davis Ford of Dale United Methodist Church in Middletown, Delaware, remembers the significant impact the Rev. Grace Fauntleroy had on her call to ministry. God brought them together when Ford was a teenager. “I did not appreciate the importance of this woman of God, nor recognize this time period as a ‘defining moment’ in my Christian walk until many years later.”

When the call to pastoral ministry came, “She became my spiritual mentor, and I became her armor bearer and mentee.”

The Rev. David Janz (r) served alongside his mentor the Rev. Larry Homitsky (l) in the 1990s.

“When I reflect on that season in my life,” Ford concludes, “I realize that God was shaping and preparing me to preach the gospel and shepherd God’s people as God had used my spiritual mentor.”

Look for the joy and laughter

The Rev. David Janz of Christ United Methodist Church, Franklin, Pennsylvania, found his mentor in the office next door. The Rev. Larry Homitsky was Senior Pastor of the congregation where Janz was serving as an associate.

Janz looks back on what he received from Homitsky. “I learned from Larry by engaging him in conversation, and by watching him handle situations and challenges as we journeyed together in ministry. He was able to make things simple for me: ‘When you’re overwhelmed by the number of things to do, make a list, and start with number one,’ he would say.”

“Larry taught me to always look for the joy and the laughter in every situation,” Janz continues. “We have not worked together now for 19 years, but Larry is still very present in my daily practice of ministry.”

A family legacy in ministry

While many mentors enter our lives at just the right time, sometimes that guide can be someone you have known your entire life. The Rev. Mary Beth Blinn of Fairlington United Methodist Church in Alexandria, Virginia, learned about ministry from her dad, the Rev. Charles G. Turkington of the Kentucky Annual Conference.

Turkington was a courageous leader who made an impression on his young daughter when in 1964 he welcomed the first African American into membership of the church he pastored, and later started a ministry to area youth that raised some eyebrows.

“Busy though he was,” Blinn remembers, “he was present at almost every family meal, and often for a bedtime prayer. I hope that risk-taking ministry, balanced with priorities for personal and family time, will be a legacy I pass on to my daughter as she enters ministry.”

And the legacy of faith continues.

Who has been your mentor in the faith? Share your story in the comments below.

*Joe Iovino works for UMC.org at United Methodist Communications. Contact him at 615-312-3733.

*Used with permission of the United Methodist News Service

       

14. RETIRED BISHOP FREDERICK HILBORN TALBOT, S.T.M., D.MIN APPEAL FOR ST. PETER’S AME CHURCH RESTORATION FUND:

Greetings in the One Name!  I am once again reaching out to my friends for support of a very worthy cause. This financial help is especially important because of the historical significance of St. Peter’s, in both Guyana and the 16th Episcopal District. 

Let me begin this appeal with this historical narrative to establish relevance.  It began with Peter Alpheus Luckie, who as a student at Wilberforce University accepted membership in the African Methodist Episcopal church, returned to British Guiana, his native land, in 1903 and founded St. Peter’s AME Church in Georgetown, the capital city. Luckie introduced African Methodism to British Guiana and pastored St. Peter’s until his death in 1920.

Following in the tradition of Luckie, David Patterson Talbot, another son of British Guiana, having been ordained deacon and elder by Bishop Henry McNeal Turner in 1903 and 1906, returned to British Guiana in 1906 after graduating from Morris Brown College and Turner Seminary, Talbot also located and purchased land and established Turner Monumental A.M.E. Church in a small village in the hinterland.  In 1920, upon the death of Luckie, Bishop William A. Fountain assigned Talbot to succeed him in British Guiana.  There he served until 1960, the year of his death.  In the following months, I volunteered to leave my job at Payne Theological Seminary and return to pastor my home church, St. Peter’s, and was appointed in 1961 by the then current Bishop Carey A. Gibbs to the pastorate of St. Peter’s.  In 1963, we were able to build a new ferro-concrete building and the old structure became part of the newly developed Agape Community Center. The congregation grew and the church became an important partner in the development of the community and the country

 I served at St. Peter’s from 1961-1971. Included among the succession of pastors were the late Rev. Hewley Hinds, Reverends Uklyn A. Hendricks and Andrew Grant.  In 2015, Bishop John Franklin White, Ed.D, appointed Troy Vince Parris, an honor graduate of Turner Seminary, as pastor of St. Peter’s.  The new pastor discovered the needs and has begun to make plans for the restoration.

As a former pastor of St. Peter’s, I volunteered to join him in fund-raising plans for the restoration of St. Peter’s, estimated at $15,000 U.S.  Your generous contribution will speak volumes in encouragement and support at a particularly difficult, but changing time in the country. It will help the congregation to continue to offer significant help and direction to the community. You may send your contribution directly to me at 92B Smithfield, Frederiksted, VI  00840 or to the pastor: The Rev. Troy V. Parris, M.Div., 209 New Garden Street, Queenstown, Georgetown, Guyana, South America.  His cell is: (404) 455-0349 and his email is: troy.parris@gmail.com. I can always be reached at (615) 429-0081.  Please make your certified check or money order to St. Peter’s AME Church: Restoration Fund.

Faithfully yours,

Frederick Hilborn Talbot

Bishop (Retired)

92B Smithfield, Frederiksted, VI 00840

Phone: (340) 692-0383 or (615) 429-0081

15. FROM THE 12^TH EPISCOPAL DISTRICT AME CHURCH BISHOP SAMUEL L. GREEN SR., PRESIDING PRELATE:

Updated website: www.ame12.org or www.ame12.net

Persons wishing to submit prayer request, can do so through either of our websites (Listed above.

Announcing: Fall Convocation and Planning Conference

Bishop Samuel L. Green, Presiding Prelate

Twelfth District

P. O. Box 147

Little Rock, AR 72203-0147

Telephone: (501) 375-4310

Fax: (501) 375-0306

16. THE TRUTH IS THE LIGHT:

*The Reverend Dr. Charles R. Watkins, Jr.

Based on Biblical Text: Matthew 28:19-20 KJV: Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.

We need to ask ourselves sometimes, “What has made an impact on us lately?”  Is it our family? Could it be our neighbors or our community? I wonder how many folk would say the Church has impacted their lives.

I think maybe the greater question is not has the church impacted us, but has our church made an impact in someone else’s life? The church is obviously the company of all Christians. The impact is the effect or impression we have made on another. So then a church of impact consists of Christians collectively effecting or making an impression on others with the good news of Jesus Christ.

That is exactly what Jesus had that in mind when He said, Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.

Jesus was not in the business of giving those standing around Him a nice colloquial phrase to utter every now and then to a gathered group of people called the church. Rather He was intending to impact His followers in order that they themselves as the Church might make an impact. We find in our text the goal, strategy and commitment level needed to be successful as a church.

Clearly our defined goal is to make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things. The emphasis of making disciples is to get folk saved through Jesus, baptized into Jesus, taught about Jesus and encouraged to follow Jesus.

The truth of the matter is over the past year and beginning this new Conference Year we as a church have made some good decisions about the development of our programs, budget and building. However, the measurement of success for our church is not the programs, budget or buildings. The true measurement of success for our church is in the production and development of disciples. The programs, budget, and building should be utilized to help us make disciples.

When Jesus said, make disciples He was not looking for good decisions, He was looking for good disciples. We must understand our defined goal is to make disciples. With a defined goal as the church we need to determine our strategy. Our strategy is simple and intentional. Jesus said go therefore.

To simply and intentionally go therefore implies we go with a certainty knowing and understanding our goal. The Bible reminds us that, then He appointed twelve, that they might be with Him and that He might send them out to preach. We are challenged that going involves reaching out. We are admonished to go where the people are. We are to bring people into the fellowship of the church. We are to be about building up teaching and training people.

The Bible reminds us, as you have therefore received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in Him, rooted and built up in Him and established in the faith, as you have been taught, abounding in it with thanksgiving. (Colossians 2:6-7)

Jesus wants us to understand that people reach people, not programs. Jesus was all about reaching people and He did that by going to them. The way we go could possibly be up for discussion. Some will suggest we go door to door, while others will work to develop relationships and friendships. However the goal is always making disciples.

Many evangelists argue that one of the true tests of whether or not a church is making an impact for Christ is not by how many people it takes in, but by how many people it sends out. Jesus had in mind then and still has in mind that His disciples simply and intentionally go therefore. He leaves no room for negotiation. We are all called to go and make disciples. Jesus had in His mind and heart total commitment as He clearly says, "I have commanded you."

*The Reverend Dr. Charles R. Watkins, Jr., is the pastor of Morris Brown AME Church in Charleston, South Carolina

17. GETTING TO ZERO: DEPRESSION - THE SILENT EPIDEMIC (PART 2)

*The Rev. Gwendolyn Hatter and Dr. Oveta Fuller

We continue the three part series in an October month focus on Mental Health.  National Mental Illness Awareness Week is October 11-17.  In Part 1, the Rev. Gwendolyn Hatter shared an experience with how depression was misread by a workplace colleague. In Part 2 the Rev. Hatter writes:

“Looking back, I realize I had experienced back-to-back all the classic major life-changing events known to cause depression:  the loss of my mother (my best friend), the break-up of my marriage, a poor life choice, followed by the loss of our home.  Any one of these could have been a catalyst for a depressive event; but going through them year after year - while juggling the responsibilities of raising four children alone in a major city without a support system and a reliable car - eventually sent me into complete withdrawal.  Depression affected everything in my life; I was unable to work, lost interest in the things I once enjoyed, was perfunctory at best with my family and when I could, I found solace in sleep, which was my only escape from the emotional pain I endured.”

What is Depression?

According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH) during the year 2013 an estimated 15.7 million adults over the age of 18 had at least one major depressive episode.  This statistic reflects 6.7 percent of the United States adult population.  A major depressive episode is defined as “a period of two weeks or longer during which there is either depressed mood or loss of interest or pleasure, and at least four other symptoms that reflect a change in functioning, such as problems with sleep, eating, energy, concentration, and self-image.”¹ 

A study conducted by Clergy Initiatives at Duke Divinity School, cited clergy as 1.5 times more likely to become depressed than lay.  Among clergy, depression is commonly referred to as ‘burn-out’. 

As with anyone in helping professions, clergy members are guilty of providing others with compassionate care, while denying ‘self-care’.  An August 2010 article in the New York Times states that clergy experience “burnout, discouragement, disillusionment to the point that they end up developing chronic physical illnesses, psychological or psychiatric conditions, experience marriage or family difficulties or are so beaten down that they leave the ministry entirely.” 2 Giving care to others often leaves you without support when you are in need of the same.

Learning about Depression

So what then is depression?  Depression is a mental “stronghold” that is constructed brick by emotional brick.  Perhaps, but not necessarily, at its root there lies a hidden sin issue whereby its victim suffers under the weight of guilt and shame. For example, Judas was so overwhelmed by his own guilt and shame that, in a depressed state, he ended his own life rather than confess his guilt and face the consequences.  More often than not, depression has its root in a single life event or a series of life events that overwhelm an individual’s internal system of checks and balances. This can make it difficult to move forward without radical intervention. 

Depression can have its origins in emotional responses to life-threatening situations and circumstances including fear, regret, and insecurity.  For example, following his success in defeating the prophets of Baal, Elijah’s response to Jezebel’s threat was one of fear , depression and the desire to die (See 1 Kings 19:1-4).   As with Elijah, it is important to be aware that we are particularly susceptible to emotional “downs” following major life victories. 

Some of the external causes of depression include major and longterm illness; bereavement and loss (all types); a stressful, toxic and unmanageable lifestyle; unresolved betrayal, hurt and woundedness; oppression; ridicule and rejection; loneliness and isolation.  (Depression and suicide among senior citizens is often the result of living in isolated environments without sufficient human interactions).  Internal causes include substance abuse; unconfessed/unrepented sin; unexpressed anger and resentment; low self-esteem and feelings of inadequacy; living in denial of the truth (about oneself or a situation); envy; and, unforgiveness.  Important to understand, low self-esteem like depression, is rarely a personal choice.  Most often it is a response to mistreatment by others. 

There are also biological reasons that can lead to depression.  Adequate amounts of Folate, Vitamin B-12 and other B vitamins have a major role in the production of chemicals in the brain that affect mood.  Researchers have strongly linked low levels of these vitamins with depression.  Regular routine exercise can release chemicals that can help to counter effects of depression.

Know the Symptoms of Depression

Thus, depression is a physical response to an emotional or biological problem.  Some describe depression as an overall feeling of a ‘weight’ that inhibits their daily mobility.  Others describe experiencing a ‘pervading feeling of darkness and gloom’ like a cloud that they cannot shake or get from under. 

Some of the physical symptoms of depression include loss of appetite; sleep issues (too much/too little); weight gain/loss; agitation and irritability; weeping; sad countenance/affect; fatigue.  Any or all of these contribute to an inability to focus, to find joy or pleasure in life, to “bounce back”.  Telling someone to “just snap out of it”, is never the answer, as it places the cause or the problem solely on the individual who may be experiencing biological or life issues that they are unable to diagnose or resolve.

“Don’t Shoot:  I’m Already Wounded!  Facing Down Ignorance”

One of the best resources on this subject is written by Dwight L. Carlson, M.D. and entitled “Why Do Christians Shoot Their Wounded:  Helping, Not Hurting Those with Emotional Difficulties”.  The author explains that Christians, in particular, are very quick to judge those suffering emotionally. 

Often the single thing that prevents a person from getting the counseling or other help needed to overcome depression is the resistance and erroneous opinions of well-meaning clergy and those close to us.  An example given in the Dr. Carlson’s book is of a faith-filled Christian woman who had been battling depression for a prolonged period of time.  She finally visited the church of a popular televangelist. But as she went up for prayer, she overheard the clergyperson tell the woman just before her that he would not pray for her because her problem (depression) was rooted in ‘feeling sorry for herself’ which he said, “God did not condone”. 

Later her own husband, a deacon in the church, dissuaded her from seeking professional counseling. He had heard at a conference that if she were a committed Christian, she would not need psychiatric help.  This woman had run head-on into the classic church ignorance that continues to shroud the issue.  During the YEARS that I battled depression, all kinds of rumors floated around about me. Yet, somehow in an environment of ‘learned’ individuals, not one was knowledgeable enough to see my problem for what it really was. 

As Christians, we not only sometimes “shoot our wounded”, but we help others kill and bury them through gossip.  My mother used to always tell us ‘if you can’t say something good, don’t say anything’!  In other words, we don’t always have all the answers. We do insurmountable harm when we speak from ignorance rather than learnedness.  Why is it that, as soon as we hear that someone is battling (or in my case battled) depression or other mental health issues, that we are quick to label them as ‘crazy’ or ‘off’ or as someone whose worth is somehow diminished?  Instead of distancing ourselves, we should applaud survivors of depression with the same fervor given to others who have survived life-threatening illnesses. 

Depression can be ‘life-threatening’ because untreated depression can rob the individual of a healthy, balanced life. It has the potential to lead to untimely death or loss of the excitement and appreciation for being alive. 

Depression can be overcome.  In John 10:10b, Jesus said “I have come that they might have life and that they may have it more abundantly.”   Amen.  So then how can we—you, I and the Church—address this silent epidemic that like many others is also our disease?  (To be continued in Part 3.)

¹ The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-IV), Fourth Edition

²”Taking a Break from the Lord’s Work”, Paul Vitello, New York Times, August 1, 2010

*The Rev. Gwendolyn Hatter, a TCR guest contributor serves on the ministerial staff of Brown Chapel AME Church in Ypsilanti, Michigan.

*The Rev. Oveta Fuller Caldwell, Ph.D. is an Associate Professor of Microbiology and Immunology at the University of Michigan (U-M) Medical School, Associate Director of the U-M African Studies Center and an AMEC itinerant elder and former pastor. She lived in Zambia for most of 2013 to study HIV/AIDS prevention among networks of religious leaders.

18.  iCHURCH SCHOOL LESSON BRIEF FOR SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 18, 2015 - GUESS WHO’S COMING TO DINNER? - ACTS 10:24–38:

*Brother Bill Dickens

Key Verses: I truly understand that God shows no partiality, but in every nation anyone who fears him and does what is right is acceptable to him. Acts 10:34–35.

Introduction

October 18, 2015 is the twenty first Sunday after Pentecost. 

In the movie, "Forrest Gump," Tom Hank’s character provided many thoughtful observations about life.  Arguably the most impactful was Mr. Gump quoting his mother by describing life as opening a box of chocolates.  The implication of this saying is the uncertainty of what is in the box and how we must make adjustments once opened.  Surprises define our existence.  Knowing with certainty about events is the preferred option, but in many cases we don’t have certainty.  We don’t always know the "curveballs" that will be thrown in our direction.

 

Sunday’s lesson in Acts 10: 24 -38 illustrates how we should respond to unexpected events in our lives.  Peter swallows his ethnic pride and ego and accepts a dinner invitation to a non-Jewish home.   Dining in a Jewish home for Peter would be the norm.  God however challenges us to step outside the norm.  Peter certainly didn’t expect to be in a Gentile’s home for dinner.  His box of chocolates clearly came with a surprise!

Bible Lesson

Visions

Chapter 10 of Acts opens with two visions.  Cornelius, a Roman centurion (captain of 100 soldiers) was a God-fearing Gentile who prayed regularly and gave alms to the poor.  One afternoon an angel of God appeared before him and told that God had heard his prayers (10: 1-6) and he will soon meet the apostle Peter at his house. Shortly after Cornelius’ vision Peter had a vision about kosher eating laws (vs. 9 – 16).  A blanket of food was lowered to Peter to consume but the apostle balked at the offer clinging to his ethnic heritage of not eating “unclean meat”.  The angel of God reminded Peter that what God had made pure can’t be classified as impure (v 15). .

Visit

While pondering over the meaning of the vision, Peter is greeted by three men who indicate their purpose is to escort the apostle to the home of Cornelius.  The Holy Spirit informs Peter that the three men are legitimate and he should follow their instructions because they were sent by the Spirit (v 20). They explain that Cornelius is a righteous man and desiring to meet the apostle.  Peter leaves with the men and arrives at the home of Cornelius.  Peter explains that under normal Jewish customs he would not visit the home of a Gentile but his recent vision of the dietary eating practices taught him that he can’t discriminate among people since God has made everybody equal (v 28).  Cornelius shares his vision with Peter confirming everything the angel told him (vs. 30-33). 

Victory

The confirmation of the visions shows the power of God to the dinner guests and host (v 34).  Peter’s short sermon reminds the dinner guests that Jesus is the way, the truth and the life.  The Holy Spirit is poured out on all dinner guests (v 44).  A night that started with greetings and salutation climaxes into a revival and an outpouring of God’s grace.  Oh what a night indeed!

Bible Application

The movie, "Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner" premiered in 1967.  It was a landmark movie showing the lingering effects of racial discrimination.  The plot was straightforward.  After a period of vacation in Hawaii, Joanna "Joey" Drayton (played by Katherine Houghton) returns to her parents' home in San Francisco bringing her fiancé, the high-qualified Dr. John Prentice (played by Sidney Poitier), to introduce him to her mother Christina Drayton (played by Katherine Hepburn), who owns an art gallery and to her father Matt Drayton (played by Spencer Tracy), who is the publisher editor of the newspaper The Guardian. Joey was raised with a liberal education and intends to get married to Dr. John Prentice, who is a black widower and needs to fly out on that night to Geneva to work with the World Health Organization.

The movie was a commercial success and highlighted the difficulties even among liberal whites in accepting racial equality.  The dinner guests (both parents) were “surprised” to learn of the spousal choice by their daughter/son. 

The surprise announcement made for great movie viewing but for the vast majority of movie goers the difficulty in coming to grips with racial prejudice was more important. 

Peter’s “Guess Who” moment taught him an important lesson about prejudice.  God’s vision to Peter was unambiguously clear - God does not condone racial/ethnic discrimination.  The eternal truth of this message has not sunk into all communities of faith.  The work of the AME Church in being a beacon of light and hope to help believers and non-believers overcome their racist DNA tendencies remains relevant in the 21st century.  The harvest is plentiful but the laborers are few.  QED

*Brother Bill Dickens is currently the Church School Teacher at Allen AME Church in Tacoma, Washington.  He is currently a member of the Fellowship of Church Educators for the African Methodist Episcopal Church

19. MEDITATION BASED ON PHILIPPIANS 3:3-14:

*The Rev. Dr. Joseph A. Darby

The 152^nd Session of the South Carolina Annual Conference of the AME Church ended a couple of weeks ago, and I just completed one of my traditional “post-Conference” chores yesterday - cleaning off my desk.

Most active clergy have cluttered desks.  Mail, brochures, cards, worship bulletins, business discount coupons, invitations and other things that don’t require immediate attention often get laid aside to either be stored or read and responded to later. 

I lay those things aside with the best intention of dealing with them, but more pressing, important and immediate concerns often lead me to push them out of the way and they often end up just occupying space and making important things harder to locate.

That’s why I do an annual “desk cleaning.”  I archive the things that really matter, but things that required action months ago usually get shredded and discarded.  Most of those things seemed mildly important when I received them, but they usually turn out with the passage of time to be little more than clutter that I can discard without difficulty to make room for the things that really matter.

I share my “post-Conference cleaning experience” with you, because what applies to my desk also applies to our lives.  Life in this world leads all of us to accumulate cares, concerns, fears, demands and less than productive habitual behavior - spiritual baggage that can occupy our thoughts and minds, direct our actions, demand our attention and bring confusion to our spirits.

That’s why it’s good to “exhale,” every now and then, prayerfully take stock of what we have to deal with in life, and let go of the things that seem to demand our attention but often really don’t matter.

Take the time to regularly and prayerfully examine your life, take inventory of what really matters and discard old stuff that clutters and crowds your soul and hinders your well-being.  Your days will be better, you’ll find new focus and direction, you’ll be more attentive and more able to see the blessings that God has in store for you, and you’ll know why those who were weighed down by the chains of American slavery sang, “I feel better, so much better since I laid my burdens down.”

Get Ready for Sunday, and have a great day in your house of worship!

This Meditation is also available as a Blog on the Beaufort District’s Website: www.beaufortdistrict.org

Facebook: www.facebook.com/BeaufortDistrictAMEC

Get Ready for Sunday, and have a great day in your house of worship!

*The Rev. Dr. Joseph A. Darby is the Presiding Elder of the Beaufort District of the South Carolina Annual Conference of the Seventh Episcopal District of the African Methodist Episcopal Church

20. EPISCOPAL FAMILY CONGRATULATORY ANNOUNCEMENT:

-- Congratulations to Stephanie Young, daughter of Bishop McKinley and Episcopal Supervisor Dr. Dorothy Young 

Congratulations to Stephanie Young who recently became an Associate Director in the Office of Public Engagement where she serves as the White House’s primary liaison to the African American community.  She most recently served as the White House Associate Communications Director where she worked with various components within the White House and the administration to develop and manage communications strategy to roll out new policy and Presidential events.  Stephanie coordinated with our Department of Social Action in organizing the meeting of the Black Methodist Coalition at the White House on September 2, 2015.  Stephanie appears in the November edition of Essence Magazine featuring “Women in the White House.”  Stephanie is the youngest daughter of Bishop and Mrs. McKinley Young, Presiding Bishop and Supervisor of the Third Episcopal District.  She is an active member of Allen Chapel AME Church, Washington, DC where the Reverend Michael Bell serves as pastor.

Congratulatory messages may be sent:

Bishop McKinley Young: BishopMYoung@gmail.com

Dr. Dorothy Young, Episcopal Supervisor: supdjy@gmail.com

21. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

It is with a heavy heart that I wish to inform you of the death of the Rev. Charles Julious Ruff, a Local Elder of St. James AME Church in Erie, Pennsylvania who served congregations at Bethel, Meadville and Bethel, New Castle, Pennsylvania. 

The following are the home going arrangements:

Wednesday, October 14, 2015

Viewing 5 p.m. - 8 p.m.

St. James AME Church

236 E. 11th Street

Erie, PA 16503

Celebration of Life:

Thursday, October 15, 2015 at 11:00 a.m.

St. James AME Church

236 East 11th Street

Erie, PA 16503

Telephone: 814/456-4011

Email: StJames138@verizon.net

The Rev. Dr. James Keeton, Pastor

Final Arrangements have been entrusted to

Law-Pitts Funeral Home

2926 Pine Street

Erie, PA 16504

Telephone: (814) 454-3112

Antiono Pitts, Funeral Director and Owner

Cards, Condolences and Messages of Sympathy can be sent to:

Mrs. Nealey Ruff

3114 Tuttle

Erie, PA 16504

Telephone: 814-490-9804

22. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

We regret to announce the passing of Mrs. Dorothy Franklin, the 97 year old matriarch of the Seales family and the aunt of the Rev. Dr. Esther L. Seales, pastor at Tyree AMEC (Philadelphia Conference, Philadelphia District).

The following information has been provided regarding the funeral service arrangements.

Saturday, October 17, 2015

Viewing: 12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m.

Celebration of Life: 1:00 p.m.

             

Mt. Olive Baptist Church

9121 Hwy 15 North

Warthen, Georgia 31094

The Rev. Dr. Christopher Watkins, pastor and eulogist

Expressions of sympathy may be sent to:

The Rev. Dr. Esther L. Seales

C/o M.C. Smith Funeral Home

117 Gilmore Street

Sandersville, Georgia 31082

Telephone: (478) 552-2591

23. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

We regret to announce the passing of Mrs. Frances Arlene James, the sister of the Rev. Dr. Esther L. Seales, pastor at Tyree AMEC (Philadelphia Conference, Philadelphia District).

The following information has been provided regarding the funeral service arrangements.

Wednesday, October 21, 2015

Viewing: 10:00 a.m.

Celebration of Life: 11:00 a.m.

United Deliverance Tabernacle

337 Avon Avenue

Newark, NJ 07103

Telephone:  (973) 297-0081

The Rev. London Jones, eulogist

The Rev. Anthony L. Obery, pastor

Expressions of sympathy may be sent to:

The Rev. Dr. Esther L. Seales

C/o Miss Ann Seals

82 Norwood Street

Newark, NJ 07106

24. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

The Third District Office sadly announces the passing of the Rev. Clem Ragster.  The Rev. Ragster pastored the following AME congregations: Ebenezer, Aliquippa, PA; Bethel, Tarentum, PA; St. James, Youngstown, OH; Lee’s Chapel, Wellsville, OH; St. John, Struthers, OH.  He retired as a member of the North Ohio Annual Conference.  He then returned to his home church, Greater Morris Chapel in Farrell, Pennsylvania. 

The following are the Homegoing arrangements for the Rev. Clem Ragster.

Viewing

Tuesday, October 20, 2015

11:00 a.m. - 11:55 a.m.

Greater Morris Chapel AME Church

926 Darr Avenue

Farrell, PA 16121

Telephone: 724-342-1422

Email: greatermorris@verizon.net

Homegoing Celebration

Tuesday, October 20, 2015 at 12 Noon

               

Greater Morris Chapel AME Church

926 Darr Avenue

Farrell, PA 16121

The Rev. Dr. Helen M. Burton, pastor

Arrangements entrusted to:

The John Flynn Funeral Home

2630 East State Street

Hermitage, PA 16123

Telephone: (724) 347-5000

Cards and Condolences can be sent to:

The Ragster Family

190 Pearelle Drive

Sharon, PA 16146

25. BEREAVEMENT NOTICES AND CONGRATULATORY ANNOUNCEMENTS PROVIDED BY:

Ora L. Easley, Administrator

AMEC Clergy Family Information Center

Email: Amespouses1@bellsouth.net      

Web page: http://www.amecfic.org/   

Telephone: (615) 837-9736 (H)

Telephone: (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

26. CONDOLENCES TO THE BEREAVED FROM THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER:

The Chair of the Commission on Publications, the Right Reverend T. Larry Kirkland; 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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