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 20th Editor, The Christian
Recorder
-- Pentecost - Sunday, May 15, 2016
The 50th Quadrennial
Session of the General Conference, July 6-13, 2016
-- Massacre of Emanuel 9, June 17
1. THE COUNCIL OF
BISHOPS MAKES STATEMENT REGARDING THE ORDINATION OF JARENA LEE:
Today, April 8, 2016, Bishop John
Richard Bryant, Senior Bishop of the AME Church announced that the
Council of Bishops met on Wednesday April 6, 2016 and decided to ordain Jarena
Lee posthumously during the 50th Quadrennial Session of the
General Conference.
The Rev. Dr. Teresa L. Fry Brown, Historiographer and Executive Director, Department of Research and Scholarship offered the following statement, "We thank God for the work of AMEWIM over the years. We are especially grateful for the guidance and advice of Bishop Carolyn Tyler Guidry. We are also thankful for the diligence of our Connectional President, the Rev. Kimberly L. Detherage, Esq."
The Rev. Dr. Teresa L. Fry Brown, Historiographer and Executive Director, Department of Research and Scholarship offered the following statement, "We thank God for the work of AMEWIM over the years. We are especially grateful for the guidance and advice of Bishop Carolyn Tyler Guidry. We are also thankful for the diligence of our Connectional President, the Rev. Kimberly L. Detherage, Esq."
To God Be the Glory!
TCR Editor’s Comment: This is indeed good news! I praise God for the decision of the Council of Bishops.
2. TCR EDITORIAL – THE BOARD OF
STEWARDS DOESN’T BELONG TO THE PASTOR:
Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III
The 20th Editor of The Christian
Recorder
Some years ago, I had a conversation with
Dr. Johnny Barbour, Jr., President / Publisher for the AME Sunday School Union
about Steward Boards in the AME Church. I had almost forgotten that
conversation, but recalled it when I heard a preacher talking about “My Steward
Board…”
He had a strategy for dealing with “his
steward board” that was “tighter than lug nut on a Mercedes Benz.” Sad to say, I was familiar with that strategy
when I was a young pastor and I suspect there are many pastors who deal with
“their steward board” as does that preacher whose conversation I heard a few
days ago. The only problem is that the steward board does not belong to the
pastor.
The information about the Board of Stewards
is found in The Doctrine and Discipline
of the African Methodist Episcopal Church- 2012 Pages 61 – 63.
The
Doctrine and Discipline does say that the pastor is the chairperson of the
Board of Stewards and that the pastor may appoint a chairperson pro tem to act in his or her absence and
that any business conducted in the absence of the pastor “shall be subject to
veto by the pastor.”
All that is in The Doctrine and Discipline, but the Board of Stewards does not
belong to the pastor.
My
conversation with Dr. Barbour
I have updated an illustration from President
George Bush to President Barack Obama.
Dr. Barbour and I were sitting in his
office and we were having a wonderful conversation about “this and that” when
he suddenly asked me a question, “How are Stewards confirmed?”
I thought to myself, “That’s an easy
question.”
Before I could answer, he asked me another
question, “Who do the Stewards belong to?
Do they belong to the pastor?”
My mind started working and I thought,
“Both questions are easy, I don’t need The Doctrine and Discipline, I can respond “from the top of my head”
with what I have observed.”
I responded confidently, “In a sense they
belong to the pastor because the pastor nominates the persons to serve on the
Steward Board and the Quarterly Conference confirms the stewards nominated by
the pastor.” I thought to myself, “Now, that was a great answer!”
Dr. Barbour pressed the point further. He
asked, “But how are the stewards confirmed?”
I responded, “The presiding elder confirms
them.” Again, I thought, “Easy answer.”
I was really proud of myself. I always feel good when I can answer
questions quickly and correctly, especially with someone as knowledgeable as
Dr. Barbour.
I was getting the feeling that he was
pressing in another direction.
Dr. Barbour, obviously not satisfied with
my answer, asked, “How does the presiding elder do that?”
I had recently sat in on a quarterly
conference and I shared what I recalled and said, “The presiding elder confirms
those persons by having them to stand and saying something, like, “I hereby
confirm you to be stewards …” with an admonition for them to serve well and to
work harmoniously with their pastor. The people and pastor seemed to me to
breathe a sigh of relief. As a matter of
fact, that was the process I recalled happened when I was a young pastor; I
felt good about my answer.
But, in hindsight, I forgot what my high
school algebra teacher told the class, “Be suspicious when answers come too
easily.”
I could see on Dr. Barbour’s face a smile
and the look of, “I gotcha!”
Dr. Barbour pressed me further, “But how
are they confirmed and what does confirmation mean?
He went on to give an analogy and asked,
“Now that President Obama has nominated Merrick B. Garland to be the nation's
113th Supreme Court justice, is it a ‘done deal,’ does that mean
that Vice President Joe Biden can with some nice ceremonial words, say, ‘I
confirm you,’ or does something else have to happen?”
Before I could answer, Dr. Barbour answered
his own question and went on to say, “Congress has to vote on the President’s
nomination and, that is my point; nomination requires a vote!
To confirm the stewards, the people at the
Quarterly Conference have to vote. The presiding elder cannot confirm the
stewards with some ceremonial words and some kind of blessing. A vote has
to be taken to confirm the stewards. The members of the church have to be
involved.”
Now, intellectually I knew that
confirmation meant, vote; but I missed the parameters of the definition when
Dr. Barbour asked me the question.
Trying to “dig myself out of the hole I had
put myself in,” I went on to share with him that I have seen presiding elders
somewhere confirm stewards with a nice ceremony and I had even heard a
presiding elder somewhere say, “The Steward Board belongs to and works for the
pastor. They have to support the pastor’s program.”
Dr. Barbour agreed that he knew that
attitude prevails among some presiding elders today because that was the way
they and we were taught. He added, “The confirmation of stewards is not done
with some ceremonial words done by the presiding elder. The confirmation
process requires a vote.”
I had been politely informed about the
proper process of confirming stewards, which I knew, but in my mind had been
superseded by what I had observed. Some people call it “tradition” or the “AME
way.” Sometimes “tradition” and the “AME Way” do not conform to The Doctrine and Discipline.
So now we were getting on some common
ground and I was getting clarification in my mind that what I observed and
accepted was a bit “off-track.”
Synthesis
We both agreed that if a steward or the
Board of Stewards supported a pastor’s unethical program, the steward or Board
of Stewards would be derelict.
We continued the discussion, and as I hope
more itinerant elders would do, opened The
Doctrine and Discipline of the African Methodist Episcopal Church for an
engaging exchange of observations.
- Stewards are nominated by the pastor, and
are confirmed: and that means, to be voted upon, by the members of the
Quarterly Conference.
- The
Doctrine and Discipline of the African Methodist Episcopal Church says that the
Quarterly Conference “shall confirm them or, if it sees fit, reject
them.”
- If some or all of the stewards that the
pastor nominates are rejected, the pastor has to come back with a revised list
of names.
The Stewards are not the pastor’s “Yes
persons.” The pastor cannot summarily dismiss stewards because the pastor feels
that a steward is not in agreement with the pastor’s program.
- Stewards are accountable to the Quarterly
Conference of their circuit or station, which shall have the power to remove
them when they fail or refuse to do their duties.”
- The Discipline goes on to state,
“Pastors can suspend a steward in the interim of the Quarterly Conference if
the steward fails to discharge his or her duties,” but the vacancy has to
be dealt with at the next Quarterly Conference, “Which shall dispose of the
case.”
- The stewards belong to the church and are
accountable to the Quarterly Conference.
The stewards should work harmoniously with
the pastor, but must always remember that they are the congregation’s
representative. It was the congregation at the Quarterly Conference that confirmed
them; and could have rejected them.
- The qualifications of the stewards
require them to be of solid piety, know and love the Word of God, the African
Methodist Episcopal Church doctrine, and The Doctrine and Discipline of the
African Methodist Episcopal Church. He or she must be fruitful and of
good nature or acquired ability to transact the spiritual and temporal business
of the church.
I wonder how many steward boards register
the baptisms, marriages and deaths according to The Doctrine and Discipline of the African Methodist Episcopal Church,
Page 63 or do they lazily defer those duties to the pastor; or might not
even get done by anyone.
Dr. Barbour and I ended our conversation
agreeing that the Church needs to be more intentional in its training of middle
management (presiding elders) and the laity needs to understand that they have
significant input into the steward confirmation process and in the ministry of
the local church.
The intent of The Discipline for the
Steward Board confirmation process is not a “rubber-stamp” procedure, but a
collegial process that involves the presiding elder, the pastor, the laity and
ultimately, the presiding bishop.
Pastors should not say, “My steward board”
or “My church”; it’s “Our steward board” and “Our church.”
The Steward Board does not belong to the
pastor.
3. NEWS AROUND THE AME CHURCH:
--
With AME officials, Bill Clinton stumps for Hillary
Former President Bill Clinton
addresses a national meeting of the African Methodist Episcopal church in
Center City on Thursday. — Tribune Chief...
-- Black
in Toronto: Trying to honour the British Methodist Episcopal Church on Chestnut
Street
With the recent discovery of the
outline of the British Methodist Episcopal Church on Chestnut Street…
4. THE 2016 AFRICAN
METHODIST EPISCOPAL (AMEC) PRAYER CONFERENCE CALL:
May the joy of our resurrected Lord and Christ be
yours now and always.
The Connectional Prayer Call for the Connectional
Day of Prayer is scheduled for Wednesday, April 13, 2016 at 1:00 p.m.
(ET). As global sons and daughters of
Richard and Sarah Allen, we look forward to sharing our prayer time globally.
Our U.S.
Conference Call number is (518) 530.1840 - Meeting ID is 119484468. For persons calling outside of the U.S. we have
provided a listing at the end of this communication of Conference Call numbers,
which can be used from various locations around the world ---The meeting id will remain the same.
Thank you,
Bishop McKinley Young
Reclaiming Our Passion for Our Protected Classes”
(Acts of the Apostles 6:1-7)
(Justice, Evangelism, Jobs, Children,
Youth, Contemporary Martyrs, Orphans, Widows/Widowers)
All Readings are from the New Revised Standard
Version of the Bible
THE INTRODUCTION OF THE
PRAYER GATHERING:
Bishop McKinley Young, 3rd District, Chairperson, General Conference
Jubilee Prayer Team
THE CALL TO PRAYER: Bishop Julius Harrison McAllister, 8th
District, President of the Council of Bishops
OPENING PRAYER AND THE PRAYER IN SUPPORT OF BLACK LIVES MATTER: Bishop John R. Bryant, Senior Bishop, 4th District
OPENING PRAYER AND THE PRAYER IN SUPPORT OF BLACK LIVES MATTER: Bishop John R. Bryant, Senior Bishop, 4th District
A READING: The Reverend Anthony Vinson, Director, Music
& Christian Arts Ministry
Risen Christ, Lord of life, breathe new life into
us this day. Inspire us with confidence, and open our hearts anew, to
receive your promise of resurrection. Speak to us once more, that we
might hear your voice and recognize your presence in our midst. From the
darkness of doubt, guide us into the glorious light of faith and love. In
your holy name, we pray. Amen!
A PRAYER OF PRAISE AND THANKSGIVING FOR THE AMEC: The Reverend Dr. Teresa L. Fry-Brown, Historiographer/ Executive Director, Department of Research and Scholarship
A READING: Miss Martinique Mix, Connectional President, Richard Allen Young Adult Council (RAYAC)
A PRAYER OF PRAISE AND THANKSGIVING FOR THE AMEC: The Reverend Dr. Teresa L. Fry-Brown, Historiographer/ Executive Director, Department of Research and Scholarship
A READING: Miss Martinique Mix, Connectional President, Richard Allen Young Adult Council (RAYAC)
Psalm 118:1-4 O give thanks to the Lord, for he
is good; his steadfast love endures forever!
Let Israel say, “His steadfast love endures forever.” Let the house of
Aaron say, “His steadfast love endures forever.” Let those who fear the Lord say, “His
steadfast love endures forever.”
A PRAYER FOR FORGIVENESS: Bishop Richard Franklin Norris, 7th District, President, The General Board
A READING: The Reverend Eustice Gynya, 20th
District, President, Presiding Elder’s Council
2 Chronicles 7:14-15 “…if my people who are
called by my name humble themselves, pray, seek my face, and turn from their
wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin and heal
their land. Now my eyes will be open and my ears attentive to the prayer that
is made in this place.”
A PRAYER FOR DRAUGHT STRICKEN REGIONS AROUND THE WORLD: The Reverend Natalie Mitchem, Executive Director, Health Commission
A READING: Supervisor Pam DeVeaux, President, Supervisors’ Council
Acts of the Apostles 2:1-4 “When the day of
Pentecost had come, they were all together in one place. And suddenly from
heaven there came a sound like the rush of a violent wind, and it filled the
entire house where they were sitting. Divided tongues, as of fire, appeared
among them, and a tongue rested on each of them. All of them were filled with
the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other languages, as the Spirit gave them
ability.
A PRAYER FOR WORLD PEACE: Mrs. Deborah Taylor-King, First-Vice President, The Women’s Missionary Society
A READING: The Reverend Sandra Smith Blair, 5th District, Women in Ministry
Acts of Apostles 2:5-7 Now there were devout Jews
from every nation under heaven living in Jerusalem. And at this sound the crowd
gathered and was bewildered, because each one heard them speaking in the native
language of each. Amazed and astonished, they asked, “Are not all these who are
speaking Galileans?
A PRAYER FOR HAITI (English & Creole): Mr. Robert Nicolas, Executive Director, AME-SADA
A READING: Ms. Jackie Dupont Walker, Director AME Social
Action Commission
Acts of the Apostles 1:21,22 So one of the men
who have accompanied us during all the time that the Lord Jesus went in and out
among us, beginning from the baptism of John until the day when he was taken up
from us—one of these must become a witness with us to his resurrection.”
A PRAYER FOR JUSTICE: Bishop
Wilfred Jacobus Messiah, 17th District
A READING: Mr. Chinelo Cary Tyler, President, The Young Peoples Division, WMS
A READING: Mr. Chinelo Cary Tyler, President, The Young Peoples Division, WMS
Acts of Apostles 2:14-21 But Peter, standing with the eleven, raised his voice and addressed them, “Men of Judea and all who live in Jerusalem, let this be known to you, and listen to what I say. Indeed, these are not drunk, as you suppose, for it is only nine o’clock in the morning. No, this is what was spoken through the prophet Joel: ‘In the last days it will be, God declares, that I will pour out my Spirit upon all flesh, and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, and your young men shall see visions, and your old men shall dream dreams. Even upon my slaves, both men and women, in those days I will pour out my Spirit; and they shall prophesy. And I will show portents in the heaven above and signs on the earth below, blood, and fire, and smoky mist. The sun shall be turned to darkness and the moon to blood, before the coming of the Lord’s great and glorious day. Then everyone who calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved.’
A PRAYER FOR JOBS: Ms. Gloria Byrd, First Vice-President, The Lay Organization
A READING: Chaplain Shawn Menchion, Vice-President, The AME Chaplains’ Association
Matthew 24:6-8
“And you will hear of wars and rumors of wars; see that you are not
alarmed; for this must take place, but the end is not yet. For nation will rise
against nation, and kingdom against kingdom, and there will be famines and
earthquakes in various places: all this is but the beginning of the birth
pangs.”
A PRAYER FOR GREATER EVANGELISM: Bishop John F. White, 16th and 18th Districts
A PRAYER FOR GREATER EVANGELISM: Bishop John F. White, 16th and 18th Districts
A READING: Bishop Clement W. Fugh, 14th District
Acts of the Apostle 12:6-7 “The very night before
Herod was going to bring him out, Peter, bound with two chains, was sleeping
between two soldiers, while guards in front of the door were keeping watch over
the prison. Suddenly an angel of the Lord appeared and a light shone in the
cell. He tapped Peter on the side and woke him, saying, “Get up quickly.” And
the chains fell off his wrists.”
A PRAYER FOR CHILDREN, YOUTH AND YOUNG ADULTS: Lamone Gibson, First District, President, Young Peoples Division (YPD)
A READING:
Bishop Vashti McKenzie, 10th
District, Vice President, The General Board
Acts of the Apostles 2:8-10 The angel said
to him, “Fasten your belt and put on your sandals.” He did so. Then he said to
him, “Wrap your cloak around you and follow me.” Peter went out and followed
him; he did not realize that what was happening with the angel’s help was real;
he thought he was seeing a vision. After they had passed the first and the
second guard, they came before the iron-gate leading into the city. It opened
for them of its own accord, and they went outside and walked along a lane, when
suddenly the angel left him. Then Peter
came to himself and said, “Now I am sure that the Lord has sent his angel and
rescued me from the hands of Herod and from all that the Jewish people were
expecting.”
A PRAYER FOR CONTEMPORARY MARTYRS: Bishop Adam J. Richardson, 11th District
A READING: The Reverend Gregory Nettles, Pastor, 12th District
Acts of the Apostles 16:16-18 One day, as we were
going to the place of prayer, we met a slave girl who had a spirit of
divination and brought her owners a great deal of money by fortune-telling.
While she followed Paul and us, she would cry out, “These men are slaves of the
Most High God, who proclaim to you a way of salvation.” She kept doing this for
many days. But Paul, very much annoyed, turned and said to the spirit, “I order
you in the name of Jesus Christ to come out of her.” And it came out that very
hour.
A PRAYER FOR HEALTHY FAMILIES and LIFESTYLES: The Reverend Dr. Letitia Watford, Presiding Elder, 9th District
A READING: Mr. Simeon Rice, Lay President, 5th District
Acts of the Apostles 16:19-25 But when her owners
saw that their hope of making money was gone, they seized Paul and Silas and
dragged them into the marketplace before the authorities. When they had brought
them before the magistrates, they said, “These men are disturbing our city;
they are Jews and are advocating customs that are not lawful for us as Romans
to adopt or observe.” The crowd joined in attacking them, and the magistrates
had them stripped of their clothing and ordered them to be beaten with rods.
After they had given them a severe flogging, they threw them into prison and
ordered the jailer to keep them securely. Following these instructions, he put
them in the innermost cell and fastened their feet in the stocks. About
midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the
prisoners were listening to them.
A PRAYER OF PRAISE AND THANKSGIVING FOR THE LIFE
AND GOSPEL LABORS OF OUR SAINTED FOUNDER AND FIRST BISHOP RICHARD ALLEN: The Reverend Dr. Charlotte Sydnor, Assistant
Editor, The Christian Recorder
A READING:
The Reverend Dr. Mark
Crutcher, Co-Director, Department of Evangelism
Acts of the Apostles 16:26-29 Suddenly, there was
an earthquake, so violent that the foundations of the prison were shaken; and
immediately all the doors were opened and everyone’s chains were unfastened.
When the jailer woke up and saw the prison doors wide open, he drew his sword
and was about to kill himself, since he supposed that the prisoners had
escaped. But Paul shouted in a loud voice, “Do not harm yourself, for we are
all here.” The jailer called for lights,
and rushing in, he fell down trembling before Paul and Silas.
A PRAYER FOR THE CHURCH UNIVERSAL AND ECUMENICAL COOPERATION: Bishop Paul J.M. Kawimbe, 19th District
A PRAYER OF RECONCILIATION: Bishop Gregory G. M. Ingram, 1st District
A READING: The Reverend Leslie Scott (Retired Pastor), 15th District
Acts of the Apostles 22:17-21 “After I had
returned to Jerusalem and while I was praying in the temple, I fell into a
trance and saw Jesus saying to me, ‘Hurry and get out of Jerusalem quickly,
because they will not accept your testimony about me.’ And I said, ‘Lord, they
themselves know that in every synagogue I imprisoned and beat those who
believed in you. And while the blood of your witness Stephen was shed, I myself
was standing by, approving and keeping the coats of those who killed him.’ Then
he said to me, ‘Go, for I will send you far away to the Gentiles.’”
A STATEMENT OF APPRECIATION: Bishop McKinley Young, 3rd District
THE BENEDICTION: Bishop McKinley Young, 3rd District
NOTE:
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5.
HONORING & RECOGNIZING OUR LEADERS:
The Rev. Velma Grant
The African Methodist Episcopal
Church (AMEC) born out of a desire to shun racial exclusivity and embrace
inclusivity has a rich history of activism, bold and outspoken leaders, and a
desire to reflect the true character of Christianity. Members of the AME Church
are familiar with the rich history and legacy of our Zion but, February 2016
will be noted in history as the time when two of the Church’s most influential
leaders were honored and recognized publicly on a grand scale. It is also worth
noting that in the month of February 2016, one of the premier AME Church’s
educational institutions named after one of those leaders, also recognized, and
honored several individuals who matriculated through that academic institution.
On February 2, 2016, many gathered
at historic Mother Bethel AME Church in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, for the
unveiling of the Richard Allen commemorative stamp made available to the public
on that day as well. What an honor to the biological as well as the spiritual
descendants of Bishop Richard Allen to know that his legacy and memory will
continue through this public display in the form of a postage stamp
commissioned by the United States Postal Service. This great feat was due to
the determination and persistence of many who kept pressing forward and
believing despite the hurdles that may have caused others to give up dealing
with the bureaucratic “red tape” of governmental paperwork requirements.
The inaugural unveiling of the
Bishop Richard Allen stamp in Philadelphia was followed by several unveiling
ceremonies throughout other episcopal jurisdictions and states. Such a worthy
accomplishment would not have been sufficient with just one celebration albeit
the first was appropriate in the birthplace of African Methodism, Philadelphia,
Pennsylvania, and the final resting place of Bishop Richard and Sarah Allen.
On Friday February 26, 2016, the
Sixth Episcopal District also paid homage to the founding father of African
Methodism by staging a local unveiling ceremony that was attended by many
dignitaries and A.M.E Church members at Saint Philip AME Church on Candler
Road, Atlanta, Georgia. One would think that an afternoon ceremony would be low
in attendance or perhaps filled with retirees or people who have more leisure
time for an afternoon event but on the contrary, the demographics included
people across all age categories, which made the event even more special.
The program participants included presiding
prelate, Bishop Preston W. Williams II, who paid tribute to Bishop Allen and
thanked the many people who were instrumental in transforming the idea of a
stamp honoring Bishop Allen into a real, tangible item available for purchase
to anyone. Bishop Williams reflected on the fact that such a historic event was
“…in the heart of Dixie…we stand to honor a free Black man.”
Other program participants included
retired AME Bishop Carolyn Tyler Guidry, retired General Officer Jayme Coleman
Williams (referred to affectionately by the Rev. Dr. Watley as “the mother” of
African Methodism), the host pastor,
the Rev. William Watley, Ph.D. The program participants were joined by the Rev.
Dr. John Foster (Big Bethel AME Church), the Rev. Toni Belin Ingram (who gave
remarks on behalf of AME Historiographer, the Rev. Dr. Teresa Fry Brown); and
Deputy Postmaster General Mr. Ronald A. Stroman. Mr. Stroman in his remarks
highlighted the life story that included the struggles and achievements of
Bishop Allen moving from Bishop Allen’s early years, his exit from Saint
George’s Methodist Church to his role in combating the yellow fever epidemic
that killed many in 1793.
After the unveiling of the stamp,
program attendees were each given an envelope affixed with the new stamp
compliments of Saint Philip AME Church and Pastor William Watley. Each program
participant (along with retired Bishop Henry A. Belin, Jr.) graciously
autographed the day’s program and or envelope for the many people who stood in
line after the brief service. Based on the number of people who stood in line
to have their keepsake memento autographed and take pictures alongside the
replica stamp, it was apparent that the day’s event was a successful, historic
and wonderful tribute appreciated by many (especially those who were not able
to travel to Philadelphia).
Another great AME Church leader,
Bishop Henry McNeal Turner, was recognized on Monday February 8, 2016 for his
work and dedication not only to the Church but also for his contributions to
the state of Georgia.
On that cold Monday morning, many
traveled to the Georgia State Capitol for history in the making as the Georgia
State Legislators accepted a resolution authored and sponsored by
Representative Marie Metz (member of Flipper Temple AME Church), honoring the
life and work of Bishop Henry McNeal Turner, who served as a member of the
Georgia Legislature in 1868 prior to becoming an AME Bishop in 1880. Although
Bishop Turner served briefly in the Georgia State legislature, his portrait still
hangs in a prominent spot in the Georgia State Capitol perhaps as a reminder
that he was a stalwart who did not allow the forces of racism to diminish his
activism in the state of Georgia.
Representative Metz was surrounded
by notable AME politicians who represent various districts in the state of
Georgia, the Rev. Dee Dawkins Haigler, the Rev. Karen Bennett, Representative
Calvin Smyre, Representative Billy Mitchell, and Representative “Able” Mable
Thomas. Other distinguished AME members in attendance included retired General
Officer Dr. Jayme Coleman Williams, the Rev. Dr. John F. Green (Turner Seminary
Dean), former Turner Seminary Dean Daniel W. Jacobs, the Rev. Augusta H. Hall
(pastor of Flipper Temple AMEC), the Rev. Dr. Gregory V. Eason (pastor of St.
Paul AMEC), Dr. Rosa Baxter, the Rev. Gloria C. Bennett and many others.
The legacy of Bishop Henry McNeal
Turner continued in the evening at Flipper Temple AME Church where Bishop
Preston W. Williams II, and Dean John F. Green along with members of the Sixth
Episcopal District and Turner Seminary community, celebrated Turner Theological
Seminary 122nd Founders’ Convocation and eighth annual Isaac R.
Clark, Sr. Conference on Ministry. The theme for the conference was “Reclaiming
Our Heritage: Relive, Remember, Recommit.”
The heritage of Bishop Turner and
Dr. Isaac Clark, Sr. will certainly live on because the graduates of Turner
Theological Seminary are engaged in ministry, social and civic activities that
are affecting their local communities and beyond. One of those graduates, the
Rev. William D. Watley, Ph.D., was the recipient of the first President’s
Lifetime Achievement Award. Other notable alumni who were inducted into the
Henry McNeal Turner 2016 Hall of Fame included the Rev. Dr. Thomas Bess, the
Rev. Dr. Miriam J. Burnett, the Rev. Michael K. Bouie, Presiding Elder Allen
Parrott, the Rev. Wesley I. Reid, Lieutenant Cmdr. Ammie Davis, the Rev. Dr.
MicKarl Thomas, the Rev. Dr. James Rumph, the Rev. Dr. Timothy Tyler, and the
Rev. Dr. Stafford J.N. Wicker.
February 2016 was a month where one
could audibly declare “Proud to be AME,” not only because of the accolades and
recognition showered on our pioneers, but also because there is a new
generation of sons and daughters who are working tirelessly to continue the
good works of those pioneers notably Bishop Richard Allen and Bishop Henry
McNeal Turner.
The world knows our legacy and
history and the world is watching as we declare “We Are AME!”
6.
THE CORNERSTONE OF OUR PASTOR’S LIFE – PRAYER:
A Prayer Garden! How fitting a
celebration for the Rev. Dr. Harry L. Seawright’s 30th year
anniversary as pastor of Union Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church in
Brandywine and Temple Hills, Maryland.
How fitting a legacy of what he has espoused in his books, to his
parishioners and anyone else with whom he had an opportunity to engage. Prayer has indeed been the cornerstone of his
life.
In honor of Pastor Seawright’s 30
years of service to the Union Bethel church family, a garden will be erected on
church grounds where people can come to a quiet place of serenity to spend time
with God in prayer. While still early in the design stage, I can envision a
place of serenity that will appeal to all five of the human senses. I can SEE a
beautiful plant and perennial floral garden in full bloom year-round; I can
SMELL the seasonal fragrance of the various blossoms; I can HEAR the softness
of a waterfall; I can imagine a TOUCH from God Himself as I read a sanctuary
slogan on the brick wall and feel His presence; and I can TASTE the goodness of
God’s comfort through the power of prayer.
Woven throughout the pages of the
books Rev. Seawright has written, the sermons he has preached and his conversations
are examples of his own prayer life but also words that encourage others to do
the same. Every church has its own
personality and purpose. The size of our church has allowed us the privilege of
times carved out to offer personal and corporate prayers throughout each of our
services. The Rev. Seawright is quick to point out that …silver and gold has he
none…, but he does extend worshippers the opportunity to come to the altar and
present our case before the Lord to sustain us for the battle(s) ahead. There are times when God has instructed
Pastor Seawright to anoint us while at the altar in prayer and speak a word of
encouragement into a particular situation. Prayer is such a cornerstone of our
pastor’s life that he even instituted an early morning prayer telephone
conference call a few years ago where now more than 200 callers gather each
morning in corporate prayer.
Alone in a quiet place, where two or
three (or more) have gathered, on your knees, on your face, and without ceasing
are all the ways Jesus, himself modeled and admonished us to pray. The Union
Bethel AME Church family has been blessed to have Jesus’ example modeled in its
own pastor. The Harry L. Seawright Prayer Garden will be a lasting reminder of
his legacy of prayer and how the power of prayer can change things, situations
and people – especially ourselves.
Let us then approach God’s throne of
grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us
in our time of need. - Hebrews 4:16 (NIV)
Mrs. Darcelle H. Wilson
7.
PAUL QUINN COLLEGE RECEIVES $3.5 MILLION GIFT FROM SIMMONS FOUNDATION
Gift
will Support New Construction and Advances Work Program
Dallas,
TX – March 28, 2016– Paul Quinn College (“Paul Quinn” or “College”) announced
today that it received a $3.5 million gift from the Harold Simmons Foundation
(“Foundation”). The majority of the gift ($2.5m) will be used to help
finance the construction of the first new building on the campus in almost 40
years. The remaining amount ($1m) is targeted to support the College’s
Work Program.
The
Foundation’s contribution further validates Paul Quinn’s remarkable
transformation over the last ten years and brings the school one step closer to
beginning construction on the Trammell S. Crow Living and Learning Center
(“Crow Center”). The Center will address Paul Quinn’s need for additional
student housing that has been created by the school’s rapid increase in student
enrollment. Since the spring of 2010, the College’s enrollment has grown
by more than 180% and by 55% alone from fall 2014 to fall 2015.
The
remainder of the Foundation’s gift continues their strong support of the
College’s transition to becoming a federally recognized Work College.
Paul Quinn began this conversion process in the fall of 2013. When
completed, Paul Quinn will become the nation’s first urban, and eighth overall,
Work College. By implementing the Work Program format, the College was able to
reduce student tuition and fees from $23,800 to $14,275 and reduce student
debt.
“We
at the Harold Simmons Foundation are very happy to be a part of the Work College
Program at Paul Quinn College,” said Foundation President Lisa Simmons.
“This innovative model takes up the national challenge to prepare students for
successful work lives without the burden of crushing debt that puts so many
dreams out of reach. The Harold Simmons Foundation is proud to invest in
Paul Quinn because it is an institution leading the way.”
“We
continue to be deeply appreciative for the support of the Simmons Foundation,”
stated Paul Quinn College President Dr. Michael J. Sorrell. “The Foundation was
one of the first institutions to believe in our vision for creating a new, New
Urban College Model, one that prepares students by providing them real world
work experiences at an affordable rate. We vow to live up to their faith
in us.”
“The
Board of Trustees of Paul Quinn is incredibly grateful for the confidence that
the Simmons Foundation continues to show in the College,” explained recently
installed Board Chairman Don Clevenger, Senior VP of Strategic Planning for
Oncor. “Their most recent gift is an excellent statement not only about
the school’s vision for the future. A vision that has found a home both
locally and nationally.”
8. AN
INVITATION TO ATTEND THE 2016 WORLD METHODIST CONFERENCE IN HOUSTON, TEXAS:
*Mr. John Thomas III
The year 2016 promises to be a
remarkable year for members of the AME Church.
We’ve already celebrated Richard Allen Stamp and are preparing for the
July Bicentennial General Conference and various commemorations of our legacy
in the city of Philadelphia and beyond.
As African Methodists we have another reason to celebrate in 2016: the
21st World Methodist Conference! From
August 31 to September 3, thousands of people representing the global family of
John Wesley will gather in Houston to celebrate our common legacy and future.
The World Methodist Conference is
sponsored by the World Methodist Council.
The World Methodist Council is formed by representatives from 80
denominations in the Wesleyan, Methodist, Holiness and Uniting Church
traditions. The Council is led by
President Bishop Paulo Lockmann of Brazil and General Secretary Ivan Abrahams
of South Africa. Bishop Sarah Davis
served as Vice President of the Council from 2011 until her death. Since 1881, Conferences have been
periodically held to bring together the every growing numbers of Christians
whose theology is rooted in John Wesley’s teachings. From 1956 onwards, the Conference has been held
every 5 years in locations as varied as London, Singapore and Rio de Janeiro.
The 2011 Conference met in Durban, South Africa. This year’s gathering in Houston marks the
first time in 40 years that the Conference will be held in the Continental
United States.
So, what can you expect at the World
Methodist Conference? This year’s theme
is “One: One People. One God. One Faith. One Mission.” Every day begins with a Bible Study followed
by a Keynote Preacher. The afternoons
have a Plenary session focused on the daily theme followed by accompanying
workshops. The evenings are open for
fellowship and several cultural activities will be held sponsored by the local
hosts. The Conference not only
celebrates the rich diversity of the Methodist movement, but is an awesome
opportunity to learn, network and be inspired by some of the best minds in the
world! In addition to the Conference, there will be several simultaneous events
including: the 13th World Assembly of the World Federation of Methodist and
Uniting Church Women (WFMUCW), the International Methodist Young Leaders
Seminar (IMYLS), the Global United Methodist Church Clergywomen Gathering and a
Perkins Theological Seminary Continuing Education Program.
The AME Church is especially
well-represented at this Conference.
Bishop Vashti McKenzie will be the keynote preacher for the Friday
Morning Service. Rev. Dr. Michael Waters
(10) and Rev. Dr. Jennifer Leath (1) will both deliver workshops. Director of Social Action Mrs. Jacquelyn
Dupont-Walker (5) has been invited to participate in a panel on Social Justice
in the Americas. Mr. John Thomas III
(13) is the World Methodist Council Youth and Young Adult Coordinator and will
be managing the IMYLS.
THE CONFERENCE IS OPEN TO ANY PERSON
WHO WISHES TO ATTEND! The Early Registration Rate is $299. Students and Young Adults are eligible for a
reduced registration rate of $199. EARLY
REGISTRATION ENDS ON APRIL 15th. You can
find more information about the 21st World Methodist Conference at
www.worldmethodistconference.com. If you
have any questions, please contact the World Methodist Council Main Office at
bbowser@worldmethodistcouncil.org or John Thomas III at
jthomas3@worldmethodistcouncil.org.
John Thomas III
Ph.D. Student
Department of Political Science
University of Chicago
9.
HAMPTON UNIVERSITY MINISTERS' CONFERENCE TO FOCUS ON PREACHING FOR
TRANSFORMATION:
Hampton, Va. – The 102nd
Annual Hampton University Ministers’ Conference and 82nd Annual Choir
Directors’ and Organists’ Guild Workshop convene on the campus of Hampton
University from June 5-10. The Hampton University Ministers' Conference is the
largest gathering of interdenominational African-American clergy in the world.
The theme for this year’s conference
is “Preaching Forward, Forward Preaching: Preaching for Transformation.” The
core bible verse for this year’s conference comes from Philippians 1:6 “And I
am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to
completion at the day of Jesus Christ.”
Bishop Rudolph W. McKissick. Jr.,
Senior Pastor of Bethel Baptist Institutional Church, will serve as this year’s
conference and communion preacher. Other nationally acclaimed speakers for the
conference include: the Rev. Dr. Jamal H. Bryant, Preacher and Pastor of the
Empowerment Temple AME Church in his hometown of Baltimore, MD; the Rev. Dr.
Carolyn A. Knight, founder of CAN DO!
Ministries in Atlanta, GA; the Rev. Dr. James H. Harris, associate professor of
practical theology at the School of Theology, Virginia Union University, Richmond,
VA; Bishop Vashti Murphy McKenzie, African Methodist Episcopal Church in
Dallas, TX; the Rev. Sheleta E. Fomby, Minister of Church Life and Minister to
Women at the North Campus of Reid Temple African Methodist Episcopal Church in
Glen Dale, MD; and Bishop Charles E. Blake, Presiding Bishop by the General
Assembly of the Church of God in Christ, Incorporated and the pastor of West
Angeles Church of God in Christ in Los Angeles, CA.
The HU Ministers’ Conference serves
as an opportunity for leaders to come together, discuss ideas and enhance their
ministry. The on-site registration fee is $225. For information or to register,
please call (757) 727-5681, email ministersconference@hamptonu.edu or visit
http://minconf.hamptonu.edu.
10.
ITC INAUGURATES DR. WHEELER 10TH PRESIDENT:
(Atlanta, Ga.) — Hundreds of
preachers, theologians, students, faculty, staff, civic and community leaders
gathered at St. Philip A.M.E. Church on March 18th to witness the inauguration
of Rev. Dr. Edward Lorenza Wheeler as the 10th President of the
Interdenominational Theological Center (ITC).
From the rousing welcome provided by
the Rev. Dr. William D. Watley, Senior Pastor at St. Philip, to the tender and
stern charge from President Wheeler’s wife, Mary, the day was filled with well
wishes from representatives from the academic, theological, and political
communities. The installment ceremony was a definite reflection of the Sankofan
influence present at the ITC. From the processional highlighted by the playing
of African drums, to the enstoolment of the president in the Akan tradition,
the day of celebration included a mixture of symbolism and activities drawn
from a distinctive past combined with current inaugural practices.
The prevailing spirit and charge of
the day was to recreate the ITC as a transformative force in theological
education and the world. Flanked by three generations, Mrs. Wheeler reminded
President Wheeler not to forget where he came from, and informed the ITC
community to return her husband “sane and safe,” so they may re-enter and enjoy
retirement.
In his augural address,
“Transformation as Invitation to Exploration, Dr. Wheeler noted that ITC had
been resurrected with the reaffirmation of accreditation from the Southern
Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges, and accreditation
from the Association of Theological Schools in the United States and Canada,
and that now was the time for transformation. Toward that end, he enlisted the
support of alumni, faculty and staff with announcement and launch of the 2016
Annual Fund, “Rebuild the Wall.” The primary purpose of the fund is to allow
ITC to continue training theologians and church leaders who transform
individuals, communities, and the world.
“I want to suggest that ITC might be
served well if we consider transformation as an invitation to exploration. As a
theological community that affirms that God is at work transforming those who
accept Christ as Lord and the Church which is the body of Christ in the world,
perhaps we should welcome the idea that the ITC is being transformed,” Dr.
Wheeler said. “It may even be reasonable to conclude that it is necessary for
the ITC to be transformed continuously in order to meet the changing needs of
humanity in a world that is constantly undergoing transformation.”
The festivities closed with a
reception featuring a powerful video of Dr. Wheeler sharing his life
experiences, love, commitment to, and vision for the ITC to be a transforming
force.
An ordained Baptist minister, Dr.
Wheeler sacrificed retirement and was elected the 10th President of the ITC in
2015. Prior to retirement in 2011, he served as President of Christian
Theological Seminary (CTS) in Indianapolis, Indiana for 14 years. A highly
regarded community leader and theological educator, Dr. Wheeler has served in
numerous church and educational positions. He was Dean of the Chapel, and
Professor of Religion and Society at Tuskegee University before joining CTS.
He also served as Senior Pastor of
Zion Baptist Church in Cincinnati, Ohio. While at Zion, Dr. Wheeler was on the
faculty at United Theological Seminary in Dayton, Ohio teaching in the Master
of Divinity and Doctor of Ministry programs. From 1982-1985, he served as Dean
of Morehouse School of Religion at the ITC. Dr. Wheeler is the author of
numerous articles, book reviews and books, including Uplifting the Race: Black
Ministerial Leadership in the New South, 1865-1902 and Black Pearls: Lessons
from A Beautiful Black Mother.
Dr. Wheeler is a dynamic preacher,
lecturer and speaker who, continues to be in demand around the world. Over the
past two decades, he has served on several civic and professional boards
including the Committee on Leadership Development of the Indianapolis Chamber
of Commerce; the Greater Indianapolis Progress Committee (office of the Mayor);
and 100 Black Men of Indianapolis. Dr. Wheeler has served on the Board of
Directors of the Association of Theological Schools (ATS) in the U.S. and
Canada, as well as Vice Chair of the Baptist World Alliance Commission on
Intra-Baptist Relations. He was also a member of the Joint Commission
authorized by ATS and the Association of Hispanic Theological Education to
strengthen Hispanic Bible Institutes.
Dr. Wheeler received a bachelor of
arts from Morehouse College. He earned a Master of Divinity magna cum laude,
from Colgate Rochester Divinity School in Rochester, New York, and a Doctor of
Philosophy in Historical Theology from Emory University in Atlanta. Dr. Wheeler
has received several honorary doctorate degrees from prestigious institutions
including CTS in Indianapolis, and Payne Theological Seminary in Wilberforce,
Ohio. In 2011, Dr. Wheeler was named one of two Distinguished Alumni of the
Year by Colgate Rochester Crozer Divinity School. Dr. Wheeler and his wife, Mary
Susan, have three daughters, Dawn, Wendy and Lauren, three grandchildren and
one great grandchild.
Established in 1959, ITC is a
consortium of five denominational seminaries and one ecumenical fellowship
whose mission is to educate Christian leaders for ministry and service in the
church and the global community through the lens of the African-American
experience. The ITC educates and nurtures women and men who commit to, and
practice a liberating and transforming spirituality; academic discipline; religious,
gender and cultural diversity; and justice and peace.
Its seminaries include the Morehouse
School of Religion (Baptist); Gammon Theological Seminary (United Methodist);
Turner Theological Seminary (African Methodist Episcopal); Philips School of Theology
(Christian Methodist Episcopal); and the Charles Harrison Mason Theological
Seminary (Church of God and Christ). The Selma T. and Harry V. Richardson
Ecumenical Fellowship provides theological training to students from various
other faith traditions.
11. NAACP STATEMENT ON SUPREME COURT
UPHOLDING "ONE PERSON, ONE VOTE":
Baltimore
–NAACP President and CEO Cornell William Brooks released the following
statement about today’s Supreme Court decision on voter representation in Evenwel V. Abbott:
“We
are extremely pleased that the Supreme Court today re-affirmed a key principle
of our representative system upheld at every lower level of the court system –
that people who hold elected office are chosen by and represent the interests
of ALL the people who live in their districts, regardless of whether they were
active voters, or supportive of an individual candidate’s or party’s agenda and
philosophy.
“If voting is a civic sacrament, then the principle
of ‘one person, one vote’ is a civic commandment enshrined in our
Constitution.” Today, (4/4/16) the Court unanimously affirmed that principle.
“In this year, when candidates for president are asking people to support policies that would denigrate, demean, discriminate and even deport people who have been living and working in America, the NAACP remains unapologetic in our fight against attempts to silence large segments of our population, or game the election process to preserve their own power and influence.
“Regardless of age, prior background, citizenship status or other circumstance, everyone deserves a voice in important policy decisions affecting critical issues like education, health, and job creation and economic development. Given these and other widespread attempts by lawmakers since 2010 to weaken the voices of the poor, the young, voters of color, we consider today’s decision to be a huge win for our democracy.
“As we remember and honor the life of the Reverend Dr. Martin King, Jr., who was taken from us 48 years ago today, we shall continue our work to perfect this Union and demand that all have a seat and a voice at the table to declare that Our Lives Matter, and Our Votes Count.”
“In this year, when candidates for president are asking people to support policies that would denigrate, demean, discriminate and even deport people who have been living and working in America, the NAACP remains unapologetic in our fight against attempts to silence large segments of our population, or game the election process to preserve their own power and influence.
“Regardless of age, prior background, citizenship status or other circumstance, everyone deserves a voice in important policy decisions affecting critical issues like education, health, and job creation and economic development. Given these and other widespread attempts by lawmakers since 2010 to weaken the voices of the poor, the young, voters of color, we consider today’s decision to be a huge win for our democracy.
“As we remember and honor the life of the Reverend Dr. Martin King, Jr., who was taken from us 48 years ago today, we shall continue our work to perfect this Union and demand that all have a seat and a voice at the table to declare that Our Lives Matter, and Our Votes Count.”
12. WHY THE EASTER SEASON
IS FIFTY DAYS LONG:
Easter
for Christians is not just one day, but rather a 50-day period. The season of
Easter, or Eastertide, begins at sunset on the eve of Easter and ends on
Pentecost, the day we celebrate the gift of the Holy Spirit and the birth of
the Church (see Acts 2).
Easter
is also more than just an extended celebration of the resurrection of Jesus. In
the early church, Lent was a season for new converts to learn about the faith
and prepare for baptism on Easter Sunday. The initial purpose of the 50-day
Easter season was to continue the faith formation of new Christians.
Today,
this extended season gives us time to rejoice and experience what it means when
we say Christ is risen. It’s the season when we remember our baptisms and how
through this sacrament we are, according to the liturgy, “incorporated into
Christ’s mighty acts of salvation.” As “Easter people,” we also celebrate and
ponder the birth of the Church and gifts of the Spirit (Pentecost), and how we
are to live as faithful disciples of Christ
*Used
with permission of the United Methodist News Service
13. THE TRUTH IS THE
LIGHT:
*The Reverend
Dr. Charles R. Watkins
Based
on Biblical Text: Philippians 4:4: Rejoice
in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!
The
Apostle Paul was adamant, challenging the church in Philippi to rejoice. In
fact, he told them "Rejoice" twice in one line. Paul encouraged the
church to be faithful, providing instructions about Christian living. He
emphasizes "rejoice," repeating it because he wanted the church to be
clear about what he was saying and he wanted them to take it to heart.
The
church was living in a society filled with false gods. They were surrounded by
perverse living thus struggling to follow Christ. These folk stood out from
everyone else and life was not easy for them. They found themselves facing
trials on a daily basis. Paul wanted them to understand that no matter what
they were going through they still needed to rejoice. He admonished them to
rejoice in the fact that Jesus Christ is our strong tower and that they were to
remain joyful, cheerful and calmly content through it all.
Rejoice
means to feel or show great joy or delight. We are expected to rejoice knowing
that Jesus is strength in our weakness. We are challenged to praise Him in the
midst of whatever we are going through knowing that He is our “very present
help in times of trouble” and “our way out of no way.” Paul wanted folk then to
know and he is saying to us now that God desires that we worship Him, rejoice
in Him and be joyful in His presence through the good times and bad for we
serve an “on time God.” No matter what God is good.
Joy
is an obligation. The apostle Paul tells us, "Rejoice in the Lord!"
and just in case we didn't get it the first time, he says it again.
Interestingly he does not tell us that it would be a good idea that we
rejoiced, or that he would suggest that we rejoice. Paul admonishes us to
just do it! In fact, rejoicing should be the normal course of the Christian
life. The truth of the matter is we should be as obedient to rejoice as we are
to love one another, tell the truth, refrain from gossip and respect life.
Joy
is a mindset rather than a particular set of circumstances. Joy is different
from happiness. Happiness is tied to circumstances. We are happy when
things go well, when we get a promotion, when we know success. Happiness tends to disappear when illness
strikes, when a loved one dies or when we have to confront criticism. In fact, we do not enjoy those times often
proclaiming, "I'm not happy about this". However, we can choose to
live life joyfully! Joy is an attitude. It is an approach to life rather
than a reaction to life. Joy is a way of looking at life that is not affected
by our circumstances.
Joy
is based in the Lord. “This joy that I have, the world didn’t give it and the
world can’t take it away.” A lot of folk try to create joy by learning positive
thinking techniques, like meditation and looking at the positive in every
situation. These techniques can be helpful. However, joy is not really
something that comes from a technique. Joy comes from a relationship. Joy comes
into our lives because of our relationship with Jesus Christ. Joy comes from
knowing that we are loved by God and no matter what happens; we are going to be
alright.
The
truth of the matter is joy comes from our perspective rather than our
performance. The joy we have is based on our confidence in God's love, ability,
and wisdom. We rejoice because we belong to Him.
*The Reverend Dr. Charles R. Watkins, Jr., is the pastor of Morris Brown
AME Church in Charleston, South Carolina
14. GETTING TO
ZERO: “DOING IT” (PART III):
*Dr. Oveta
Fuller
HIV/AIDS among men
In
the USA, 75% of the people living with HIV/AIDS are males (2).
Men
get infected with HIV. Men are major communicators of infection to others, both
to females and to other males. Men are less likely to get tested. Men are less
likely to seek healthcare in general, so they are less likely to know they are
infected.
In
heterosexual intercourse a male, as the semen provider by anatomical nature has
a higher probability of transmitting the AIDS virus or any infectious pathogen
to a recipient partner [female in heterosexual sex, male in homosexual sex or
when men have sex with men (MSM)]. Without exploring the issues inevitably
brought up when MSMs are mentioned, we can confidently state that men are more
frequent carriers of HIV to partners with whom they have sex.
Fact: In the USA, the CDC predicts that one of
every 51 men will be diagnosed with HIV infection in their lifetime.
Fact: For African American men, one of every 16
will likely become HIV+. For white men one of every 102 will become infected
with HIV. Yes, the startling prediction is that African American men are 6.5
times more likely in their lifetime to receive a diagnosis of HIV infection
than white males.
Fact: From 2000 - 2010, HIV infection and AIDS
related issues were the 7th leading cause of death among black men in America.
For other ethnic or racial groups HIV/AIDS was not present among the top causes
of death.
Fact: The CDC estimates that 16% of all adults who
have been infected with HIV do not know they are infected (2). They are HIV
seropositive and carry the virus in their body. They have never been tested.
Therefore, a key strategy to decrease new infections and stop the unnecessary
impact of AIDS-related illness is for every person to complete a 30 minute HIV
test to determine their infection status.
Fact: We have not explored here the prevalence of
HIV infection among youth and adolescence— this is the only group for which the
annual new infection numbers continue to climb (2). African American youth at
ages 13-24 are highest in numbers of new HIV infections each year in the USA of
any other ethnic or racial group.
The
CDC launched its “Doing It” campaign to make HIV testing a routine part of
healthcare so every person will know if they are infected (HIV seropositive) or
not infected (seronegative) (1).
Everyone is “Doing
It”
The
“Doing It” campaign is an interesting name. “Everyone is doing it,” states one
CDC website (1). This name is designed to get attention.
Although
most people like to be perceived as independent thinkers, as unique
individuals, everyone is influenced in some manner by others around them and by
what those others do. The “Doing It” campaign is based on the idea that HIV
testing should be something that each person does for health and because
everyone is doing it.
No
blame, no shame, just get the HIV test. Everyone should be doing it.
Making
HIV testing a regular part of health care makes sense as a strategy to combat a
disease we can eliminate, or at the least, control. Who is responsible to make
testing an acceptable part of healthcare?
The
opportunity and responsibility of the AMEC
We
are. Those who consider themselves community servants and community leaders are
responsible for addressing and changing those things that can be changed, that
we can change. HIV/AIDS prevalence and impact can be changed. We have the
responsibility and we have opportunity.
As
with lead contaminated water in the city of Flint, it is easy to point fingers
at what was not done. It is easy to point to what was done to save money rather
than to accept individual responsibility for allowing an antiquated and failing
infrastructure to remain.
Someone
knew the high probability of the predictable and dangerous scenario that
occurred, but no one informed the people in a way they could understand. No one
spoke up or acted before the thousands of residents of this Michigan city were
exposed to high levels of lead—poisoned by water they paid for and used daily
for drinking, cooking, bathing, washing.
As
a globally connected network in thirty-nine countries on five continents, the
African Methodist Episcopal Church (AMEC) has access to those who need to know
and act on what they know. As the oldest church in the USA that was established
by people of African descent on a social justice and equality foundation, we
have a legacy of engagement in matters that directly affect lives. Think--
freedom from slavery, yellow fever, access to education, civil rights, voting
rights, Black Life Matters.
We
have influence that reaches into the local communities of the tens of thousands
of members and neighborhoods across the twenty Episcopal districts of the
global AMEC connection.
If
we are to serve well the African American community, we cannot ignore the
facts. We cannot ignore that HIV/AIDS is our disease. We cannot ignore that it
disproportionately affects people in our communities, our AMEC and other
congregations, our families, our schools, our children and teens and young
adults and prisons with our sons, daughters, father, mothers, uncles and
aunties.
As
Christians-- we are responsible.
What to Do?
Over
the next months leading to the July 2016 celebration of the 200th anniversary
of this great church, we will continue to explore the question of “what to do?”
The
question of this time concerning HIV/AIDS should not be misunderstood. The
question is not do we need to do something. The question is not should we do
something. Clearly, the question is what to do and how to get it done
effectively and efficiently.
Expect
to hear multiple voices address the question, “What is the AMEC to do to
eliminate the impact of HIV/AIDS in our communities especially?”
You
are invited to think about this, to discuss it and importantly to act on it—to
do.
The
“Doing It” campaign from CDC proposes that a strategic smart place to start is for
every person to get the HIV test to know their infection status.
I
agree. There is much more to do to further reverse current trends of infection
and disease caused by preventable exposure to a fragile lipid envelope (fat)
covered virus.
The
AMEC should be “Doing It”.
Seeking a Closer
Walk
The
founder of the rock group U2 and well known celebrity, political activist and
businessman Paul David Hewson, an Irishman with net worth estimated at over
$700 million, is better known as “Bono”.
Bono
makes a profound prophesy in a particularly powerful moment of the 2006
documentary “A Closer Walk” (3). This film is viewed and discussed in the Payne
Theological Seminary class “What Effective Clergy Should Know about HIV/AIDS
(CM-243).”
The
documentary that is narrated by Will Smith and Glenn Close presents multiple
perspectives of the broad global impact of HIV/AIDS. “The film explores the
intricate relationship between health, dignity, and human rights and shows how
the harsh realities of AIDS in the world are an expression of the way the world
really is.” (3)
Every
Masters of Divinity student who has taken the required CM243 course would
recommend this documentary. Each will agree that, “A Closer Walk depicts heart
wrenching, beautiful, and inspiring stories from AIDS in the world. From all
walks of life and all corners of the globe -- A Closer Walk leaves no
stone unturned.” (3)
The
documentary ends by saying, “No one person can solve the issues and suffering
brought about by HIV infection, but every person can do something.”
Bono
simply professes, “We will be judged by God for this.”
As
individuals, Christians, leaders and one church-- we will be held responsible
for what we do with the opportunities and challenges of this time. HIV/AIDS is
but one challenge. But, HIV/AIDS is one challenge that we can do something
about as individuals, as Christians, as leaders and as one responsible, real
life engaged church.
With
what is already available in biomedical treatment and adding accurate education
and routine testing for HIV infection, we can continue to turn around the
infection and death trends to bring the HIV/AIDS pandemic to an end. We can
eliminate its impacts.
We
are compelled and commanded to make a difference, to care for one another.
Eliminating HIV/AIDS offers an opportunity to be counted on the right side in
the history of humankind.
Let
us get about effectively doing it!
*The
Rev. Dr. Fuller is currently on Sabbatical leave from the University of
Michigan and will submit her column as her schedule permits.
15. iCHURCH
SCHOOL LESSON BRIEF FOR SUNDAY, APRIL 10, 2016 - SHAMELESS FAITH - DR. LUKE
7:36-50
*Brother
Bill Dickens
Introduction
-- April 10, 2016 is the Third Sunday of Easter.
The Eugenics movement in
the early 20th century was a philosophy of racial superiority
cloaked in the pseudo-science of racial biology and statistics. The
justification for this horrible abuse of science was the intent to improve the
quality of human life by reducing the incidence of alleged “inferior-producing”
humans to be borne. This selective breeding strategy found a receptive
home in Nazi Germany but it was also accepted by some American scientists who
became the “research arm” for terrorist groups like the Klu Klux Klan and the
American Aryan Society. Defenders of the eugenics movement were convinced that
a racial hierarchy was warranted with the dominant race, read, white Caucasian,
being protected from the polluting influence of inferior races, blacks, browns
and Latinos.
If people believe there are innate differences
that define respectable and unrespectable DNA deposits, social organizations
will reflect policies of exclusivity and not inclusivity.
The Adult AME Church School Lesson for April 10,
2016 addresses the issue of differential treatment of people based on
perception of inferiority.
Can faith communities practice the policy of
superiority among their members and be vindicated for such actions? Can
we justify differential treatment of others simply because they don’t look or
behave as we do? These important questions and more and warrant clear and
consistent answers.
Jesus was up to the task of providing definitive
answers. Let’s see below.
Bible Lesson (Hospitality, Humility & Hubris)
Our story begins with a dinner invitation extended
to Jesus by a Pharisee named Simon. This act of hospitality is noteworthy
if only because the invitation was accepted by our Lord. An unnamed woman
received notice of the dinner invitation (news travels fast even without social
media) and decides to self-invite herself to the dinner table. She is
defined by Dr. Luke as a “sinner.” This no doubt a euphemistic expression
to describe a behavioral trait linked with some form of “immoral
behavior.” While the author is not specific about the immoral behavior
many commentators have suggested she was a prostitute. Irrespective of
her “resume” she not only comes to the dinner, unannounced, but brings
special “accessories” to share with the honored guest. Her shameless
faith is captured in her act of humility where she washed Jesus’ feet with her
tears, dried them with her hair and applied special aroma by massaging His feet
with alabaster fragrance. This welcome reception by the unnamed woman
extended the act of hospitality and projected true humility.
In complete contrast, the host Pharisee Simon was
annoyed at the woman’s display of hospitality and humility. He was
undoubtedly disturbed at her unannounced visit combined with the fact that such
social interaction by a Pharisee and a “sinner” was widely considered a social
taboo. In a crass display of cruel insensitivity, he whispers to himself,
“If Jesus really knew who this woman was He surely wouldn’t allow such close
contact”. Simon forgets that Jesus can hear whispers. Jesus uses
Simon’s comments of hubris as a valued teaching moment. Jesus uses a
parable to describe the principle of debt and forgiveness.
A creditor approached two debtors who owed him 500
denarii and 50 denarii or the US dollar equivalent of $10,000 and $1,500 today.
Neither debtor was in a position to repay the debt. The creditor
therefore decided to cancel the debt of both. Jesus asks Simon which
display of mercy was the greater?
Simon correctly answered the person who owed
the most. Jesus takes that response to show that Simon’s hospitality was
lacking because he didn’t provide comfort for his feet or a fragrance to soothe
the aches of walking. However, the “sinful” woman immediately saw those
needs and responded accordingly. Because of her shameless faith her faith
results in the forgiveness of sin even though she, like the big debtor in the
parable, had a huge debt. Simon and his colleagues were stunned at the
pronouncement of the sinful woman being forgiven. How can He forgive sin
when that attribute is reserved for God only? Like many situations the
Pharisees were exceptionally slow learners.
Bible Application (Presidential Pardons and Commutations)
A March 25, 2016 op-ed column by George Lardner
Jr. and P.S. Ruckman Jr. was published in The Washington Post. Their column revealed that President
Obama has been extremely "merciless" in granting pardons to
convicted felons. According to the authors, the President has
"granted just 70 pardons, the lowest mark for any full-term president
since John Adams, and 187 commutations of sentence. Meanwhile, 1,629 pardon
petitions have been denied (more than five of the previous six presidents), as
well as 8,123 requests for commutations (a new record). An additional 3,444
requests have been “closed without presidential action." “On March
30, 2016, five days after the column was published, the President granted early
release (clemency) to an additional 61 inmates incarcerated due to Federal drug
charges.
Many in the black community feel the President is
not doing enough in using his power to grant pardons and commute prison
sentences. Some see Presidential pardons as an extension of criminal justice
reform. Such expectations of near-universal commutations or pardons to help
reduce crowded prisons disproportionately populated by black men miss an
important point. The idea that prisons are over populated with innocent
people is pure myth. The President of the United States does not take the
task of clemency lightly. A Presidential pardon policy should be used
with great discretion on a case by case basis not some crude tool to exonerate
the guilty.
The most important pardon, as seen in our lesson,
always comes from God.
We should continue to agitate for criminal justice
reform where inequities exist in the system. However, to look for
the President to correct a problem that is the byproduct of two hundred years
of criminal injustice is myopic in scope and practice.
A Presidential pardon can indeed correct for a
wrong but in the absence of a Godly pardon the individual remains in jeopardy
of an even greater risk. 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
16. MEDITATION BASED ON MATTHEW
6:25-33:
*The
Rev. Dr. Joseph A. Darby
I’m writing this column while lamenting the demise of Edna’s Drive-In
Restaurant. Edna’s was actually more of a “walk up” than a “drive in” - a
small and modest shack with no interior seating on the outskirts of Columbia,
South Carolina that hadn’t changed in the last five decades since I first went
there. That modest place, however, produced delightful fast food -
including huge hamburgers that my high school classmates and I considered
well-deserved treats after a grueling week of marching band practice.
Edna’s sold its last greasy burger last week. The original owners
passed away years ago, their children reached retirement age and the current
generation had no interest in keeping it going.
My trips to Edna’s decreased to every six months or so in recent
years. I’ve dined in many restaurants since I was an “Edna’s regular” -
some of them “white tablecloth” places so expensive that I thought the food
must have been cooked in golden ovens, and I’ve been to Easter Prayer
Breakfasts at the White House, but I’ll miss Edna’s - a simple place that sold
simple, cheap and absolutely delicious food. I regret that I was busy
last week and didn’t get to have one last burger and say my goodbyes to the
familiar faces there.
I offer up my fond memories of Edna’s in a fast paced world, where the
best of us tend to go with the latest styles and trends, where many of us are
so mobile that we don’t put down “roots” and where life’s complex challenges
often demand our immediate attention.
It’s good, however, to take the time in the midst of a fast paced and
complex world where our fond memories of things of the past often fade, to
remember and appreciate life’s simple but meaningful and memorable blessings.
Doing so helps us to slow down, put life in perspective and remember that
even in an elaborate and demanding world, God still sends us simple blessings
that we often forget or fail to see and fully appreciate.
Take the time today to thank God for the simple blessings in your life
and the special places and people near to your heart. You’ll find a new
and comforting view of the world and be able to say, as a song of my youth says
- even in the midst of a fast paced, transitory world - “He woke me up this
morning and started me on my way, the Lord is blessing me right now.”
*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
17. GENERAL OFFICER
FAMILY CONGRATULATORY ANNOUNCEMENT:
-- General
Secretary/CIO Dr. Jeffery and the Rev. Dr. Joanne Williams-Cooper welcome the
birth of Jaylan, their sixth grandchild
Congratulations
to the Rev. and Mrs. Jeffery B. Cooper II on the birth of their first child.
Jaylan McKinley Elizabeth Cooper arrived at 2:35 a.m. this morning (4/8/16)
weighing 6 lbs. 5 oz. and 19 in long. Baby and parents are doing well.
Jaylan
is the sixth grandchild of General Secretary/CIO Dr. Jeffery and the Rev. Dr.
Joanne Williams-Cooper.
Jeffery
Cooper
General
Secretary/CIO
Congratulatory
email can be sent to: revjbc@aol.com
18. EPISCOPAL FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
We are saddened to share the news of and the homegoing service arrangements for Mr. Jordan L. Fugh, the brother of Bishop Clement W. Fugh, Presiding Bishop of the Fourteenth Episcopal District AME Church; brother-in-law of Episcopal Supervisor, Alexia Fugh.
Services for Mr. Jordan L. Fugh:
Family Visitation:
Wednesday, April 6, 2016, 4-7:00 p.m.
MJ Edwards Funeral Home
4445 Stage Road
Memphis, TN 38128
901-791-9700
Funeral Services:
Thursday, April 7, 2016 at 11:00 a.m.
New Tyler AME Church
3300 Summer Avenue
Memphis, TN 38122
(901) 323-9371
Professional Services are entrusted to:
MJ Edwards Funeral Home
4445 Stage Road
Memphis, TN 38128
Phone: 901-791-9700
The family request in lieu of flowers, that donations be made to:
New Tyler AME Church
3300 Summer Avenue
Memphis, TN 38122
Condolences and expressions of sympathy may be sent to:
Bishop and Mrs. Clement W. Fugh & Family (US Address)
315 Keswick Grove Lane
Franklin, TN 37067
Telephone: (615) 771-3080
Email: BishopFugh131@gmail.com
We are saddened to share the news of and the homegoing service arrangements for Mr. Jordan L. Fugh, the brother of Bishop Clement W. Fugh, Presiding Bishop of the Fourteenth Episcopal District AME Church; brother-in-law of Episcopal Supervisor, Alexia Fugh.
Services for Mr. Jordan L. Fugh:
Family Visitation:
Wednesday, April 6, 2016, 4-7:00 p.m.
MJ Edwards Funeral Home
4445 Stage Road
Memphis, TN 38128
901-791-9700
Funeral Services:
Thursday, April 7, 2016 at 11:00 a.m.
New Tyler AME Church
3300 Summer Avenue
Memphis, TN 38122
(901) 323-9371
Professional Services are entrusted to:
MJ Edwards Funeral Home
4445 Stage Road
Memphis, TN 38128
Phone: 901-791-9700
The family request in lieu of flowers, that donations be made to:
New Tyler AME Church
3300 Summer Avenue
Memphis, TN 38122
Condolences and expressions of sympathy may be sent to:
Bishop and Mrs. Clement W. Fugh & Family (US Address)
315 Keswick Grove Lane
Franklin, TN 37067
Telephone: (615) 771-3080
Email: BishopFugh131@gmail.com
19. CLERGY
FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
The Passing of the Rev. Dr. Cecil Cone
The Tiger Nation is saddened to learn of the passing of our former President, Cecil Wayne Cone, Ph.D. Dr. Cone served as the Twenty-Third President of Edward Waters College from 1977 – 1988. He was married to Dr. Juanita Fletcher-Cone.
Dr. Cecil Wayne Cone completed his undergraduate work at Philander Smith College. Dr. Cone earned two Doctorate degrees the Doctor of Divinity degree from Garrett Theological Seminary and a Doctorate of Philosophy in Systematic Theology from Emory University. He is the author of Identity Crises in Black Theology. He was a distinguished Pastor in the African Methodist Episcopal Church, and served as Dean of Turner Theological Seminary, now known as Interdenominational Theological Center (Atlanta Georgia) and Jacksonville Theological Seminary (Jacksonville Florida). Dr. Cone was a guest lecturer throughout the United States and many countries abroad.
Among Dr. Cone’s accomplishments as President of Edward Waters College:
- Earned the initial four-year accreditation of Edward Waters College by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, 1979 and subsequent reaffirmation five years later
- Established Dual Degree Programs with the University of Miami and Emory Riddle University
- Completely remodeled the Centennial Building the oldest building on campus
- Built the Morris-Cone Residential Complex. The building bears his name along with Bishop Samuel Morris, African Methodist Episcopal Church Bishop and former Chairman of the Board of Trustees, Edward Waters College.
- Edward Waters College became an official member institution of the United Negro College Fund
- The Colleges first debate team was established and the Colleges Concert Choir was able to travel from Coast to Coast and to the Bahamas
- Dr. Cone always spoke proudly about Edward Waters College and would refer to EWC as the “Greatest College to be found anywhere on Planet Earth.”
Dr. Cone is a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. He is survived by his wife Juanita Fletcher-Cone and three children: Cecil II, Doctor of Pathology; Anita, Doctor of Sports Medicine; and Charleston, Doctor of Internal Medicine. Dr. Cone is also survived by one grandson.
Viewing
Friday, April 8th - 12:00 Noon - 8:00 p.m.
Levett Funeral Home
Gwinnett Chapel
914 Scenic Hwy.,
Lawrenceville, GA
Telephone: (770) 338-5558
Funeral Service:
Saturday, April 9th - 11:00 a.m.
St. Phillip AME Church
240 Candler Rd. SE
Atlanta Georgia
www.levettfuneralhome.com
*Received from Edward Waters College
The Tiger Nation is saddened to learn of the passing of our former President, Cecil Wayne Cone, Ph.D. Dr. Cone served as the Twenty-Third President of Edward Waters College from 1977 – 1988. He was married to Dr. Juanita Fletcher-Cone.
Dr. Cecil Wayne Cone completed his undergraduate work at Philander Smith College. Dr. Cone earned two Doctorate degrees the Doctor of Divinity degree from Garrett Theological Seminary and a Doctorate of Philosophy in Systematic Theology from Emory University. He is the author of Identity Crises in Black Theology. He was a distinguished Pastor in the African Methodist Episcopal Church, and served as Dean of Turner Theological Seminary, now known as Interdenominational Theological Center (Atlanta Georgia) and Jacksonville Theological Seminary (Jacksonville Florida). Dr. Cone was a guest lecturer throughout the United States and many countries abroad.
Among Dr. Cone’s accomplishments as President of Edward Waters College:
- Earned the initial four-year accreditation of Edward Waters College by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, 1979 and subsequent reaffirmation five years later
- Established Dual Degree Programs with the University of Miami and Emory Riddle University
- Completely remodeled the Centennial Building the oldest building on campus
- Built the Morris-Cone Residential Complex. The building bears his name along with Bishop Samuel Morris, African Methodist Episcopal Church Bishop and former Chairman of the Board of Trustees, Edward Waters College.
- Edward Waters College became an official member institution of the United Negro College Fund
- The Colleges first debate team was established and the Colleges Concert Choir was able to travel from Coast to Coast and to the Bahamas
- Dr. Cone always spoke proudly about Edward Waters College and would refer to EWC as the “Greatest College to be found anywhere on Planet Earth.”
Dr. Cone is a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. He is survived by his wife Juanita Fletcher-Cone and three children: Cecil II, Doctor of Pathology; Anita, Doctor of Sports Medicine; and Charleston, Doctor of Internal Medicine. Dr. Cone is also survived by one grandson.
Viewing
Friday, April 8th - 12:00 Noon - 8:00 p.m.
Levett Funeral Home
Gwinnett Chapel
914 Scenic Hwy.,
Lawrenceville, GA
Telephone: (770) 338-5558
Funeral Service:
Saturday, April 9th - 11:00 a.m.
St. Phillip AME Church
240 Candler Rd. SE
Atlanta Georgia
www.levettfuneralhome.com
*Received from Edward Waters College
20. CLERGY FAMILY
BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
We
regret to inform you of the passing of Mr. E. D. Foster, uncle of the Rev. Dr.
J. Arthur Rumph, pastor of Grant African Methodist Episcopal Church in Los
Angeles, California. Mr. Foster passed
away earlier this week.
Worship
Service: 11:00 AM Saturday, April 9,
2016:
Zion
Missionary Baptist Church
3939
Drummond Street
East
Chicago, Indiana 46312
Services
are provided by:
Hinton
& Williams Funeral Home
4859
Alexander Avenue
East
Chicago, In 46312
Expressions
of condolence may be sent to:
The
Rev. J. Arthur Rumph, D.Min.
c/o
Grant African Methodist Episcopal Church
10435
S. Central Avenue
Los
Angeles, CA 90002
Telephone:
(323) 564-1151
Email:
Jrumph5448@charter.net
21. CLERGY FAMILY
BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
It
is with sadness we announce the death of Ms. Myrtis Armbrister, the aunt of
Brother Kevin Pryor, spouse of the Reverend LaVeeshia Pryor, pastor of Saint
Paul AME Church in Richmond, Kentucky on March 29, 2016. Viewing at the Bain Range Funeral Home in Miami
6-9 p.m. on Friday, April 8, 2016.
Services will be Saturday, April 9, 2016 at 11:00 a.m. at the National
Church of God in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.
Please remain in prayer for the family.
Contact:
Mr
Kevin and the Rev. LaVeeshia Pryor
437
Francis St
Richmond,
KY 40475
Email:
PastorPryor@att.net
National
Church of God
977
NW 17th Avenue
Fort
Lauderdale, Florida 33311
Telephone:
(954) 728-8180
Bain
Range Funeral Home
3384
Grand Avenue
Miami,
Florida 33133
Telephone:
(305) 446-1173
22. CLERGY FAMILY
BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
We
are saddened to share the news of the transitioning from labor to reward of the
Rev. Dr. Larnie G. Horton, Presiding Elder Emeritus of the Western North
Carolina Conference.
The
Rev. Dr. Larnie G. Horton transitioned from labor to reward on Sunday, April 3,
2016.
Service
arrangements are as follows:
Funeral
Service:
Saturday,
April 9, 2016
11:00
am
St.
Matthew AME Church
1629
Bennett Street
Raleigh,
North Carolina
Telephone:
(919) 821-7011
Visitation:
Friday,
April 8, 2016
6:00
- 8:00 pm
St.
Matthew-Raleigh
Services
Entrusted to:
Haywood
Funeral Home
2415
S. Wilmington Street
Raleigh,
NC 27603
(919)
832-2835
Online
guestbook: http://haywoodfh.com/obituary?id=242947
Expressions
of sympathy may be sent to:
Sister
Katrena Horton
1301
Granada Drive
Raleigh,
NC 27612
Telephone:
(919) 782-4803
Email:
LarnieGHorton@yahoo.com
23. CLERGY FAMILY
BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
We
solicit your prayers on the passing of the Reverend Johnny Bill Stallworth on
March 28, 2016. He is the husband of Sister Anna B. Stallworth. He began his
exemplary ministry in the African Methodist Episcopal Church in September 1967
as a dedicated pastor and presiding elder.
The Reverend Stallworth retired in August 1998 in Pensacola at the
Florida Annual Conference.
The
funeral arrangements are as follows:
The
Celebrating of life:
Friday:
April 8, 2016 at 11:30 a.m.
Bethel
AME Church
511
Woodland Drive
Pensacola,
Florida 32503
Telephone:
(850) 434-3881
Professional
services are provided by:
Joe
Morris Funeral Home
701
North De Villiers Street
Pensacola,
Florida 32501
Telephone:
(850) 432-3436
Fax:
(850) 433-4179
Please
Fax all resolutions directly to the funeral home.
Burial:
Barrancas
National Cemetery
NAS
- Pensacola, Florida
Friday,
April 8, 2016
Condolences
may be sent to:
Mrs.
Anna B. Stallworth
1006
East Hatton Street
Pensacola,
Florida 32503
Telephone:
(850) 438-9330
24. 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
Twitter: https://twitter.com/AMEC_CFIC
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/The-AME-Church-Clergy-Family-Information-Center/167202414220
25.
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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