THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER ONLINE ENGLISH EDITION (9/25/08)

Bishop Richard Franklin Norris - Chair, Commission on Publications
The Reverend Dr. Johnny Barbour, Jr., Publisher
The Reverend Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III, Editor, The Christian Recorder

1. EDITORIAL – "THOSE WHO FORGET HISTORY ARE DOOMED TO REPEAT IT":

Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor IIIThe 20th Editor of The Christian Recorder

There is a Hebrew phrase that says, “Lizkor, L’daber, Lo Lishkoach” that means, “To remember, to speak, and not to forget.” I read about that phrase in the autumn edition of the Harvard Divinity Bulletin. That phrase was in an article entitled, An American Jew in Poland.

The Hebrew phrase, “Lizkor, L’daber, Lo Lishkoach” refers to the Jewish Holocaust; the murdering of the Jews by the Nazis, aided by the silence of good people and even by the silence of the church. As a result of the atrociousness of the holocaust, Jews all over the world recite the phrase, “Never again.”

I wish those of us who are black Americans had a phrase similar to, “Lizkor, L’daber, Lo Lishkoach,” when we think of the ravishes of slavery and the dehumanization of the Jim Crow laws. Slavery was just as insidious and destructive as the Holocaust and yet it seems as if blacks are working to forget the ravishes of slavery, which still negatively impacts the blacks in Africa, the Caribbean, the United States; and who knows where else in the world. When I look at the images of slavery and the photos of blacks who were lynched; my soul aches, and it seems, at least in America, that blacks want to erase the images of slavery and Jim Crow laws. We have very few solemn ceremonies to remember, reflect and teach our young people the importance of our past. There are pockets of celebrations that seem to focus on barbeques, entertainment, and having a good time.

Here in America we don’t have solemn ceremonies to help us reflect upon the destructiveness of slavery and segregation. I wonder how many of us know what year slavery ended or what Amendment gave us the right to vote and what year it passed? And, if our adults don’t know the significant dates in our history, certainly our young people have no idea about our historical journey. What mantra do we recite that causes us to remember the ravishes of slavery and gives us the determination to say, “Never again,” or something similar to, “Lizkor, L’daber, Lo Lishkoach.” What ceremonies do we have?

Some of our young people, and some adults too, are enthralled with hip-hop, sports, and being cool.

One television commercial shows a black American actor with a toothpick in his mouth extending a get-well message to his relative or a friend, and it closes out with his mentioning that his athletic team was going to win. My concern is that we might be seeing more of our young men walking around with toothpicks in their mouths.

I wish television commercials and Hollywood movie producers would present positive images of blacks. I wish that black people, especially our young people would embrace positive issues. Black women are often portrayed as, “up-in-your-face” hardened woman. Black men are often portrayed as comedians, athletes or individuals who can only discuss sports; and young black men are portrayed as street-smart hip-hopsters. Black preachers are portrayed as uneducated or undereducated clerics; and black churchgoers are portrayed as women in big hats who go to church to get a shout. When was the last movie you saw that had a positive image the black church?

The problem, with positive or negative images, is that to often people mimic the images they see in the movies or on television. For example, would most of us be willing to physically challenge an oriental male? I don’t think so, because the Hollywood image of Orientals is that they are trained in Kung Fu and the other martial arts.

I am concerned that some black people mimic unhealthy images that do not portray the real collective essence of who we are, as a race. And, I believe that negative images produces self-hatred and inhibit a segment of our population from achieving our highest collective and individual potential. An example of that, surfaces in some of our schools where high-achieving black students are accused by other black students of “acting white”; the result, achievement becomes a negative.

The church and the community are in positions to reverse the negative images that abound in the black community. The beginnings of such a reversal can be the notion of something like, “Lizkor, L’daber, Lo Lishkoach” or “Never Again” because "Those who forget history are doomed to repeat it."

We must never forget the viciousness and dehumanization of slavery and inequality. We must teach our children what our forefathers and foremothers endured. We should not forget the past and our young people should be a part of the ceremonies and drama of the remembrances. Our young people should understand the geography of Africa and genesis of slavery and of the “Middle Passage” and the heroic acts of the men and women in bondage.

White history books, especially in the past, depicted or subtly inferred that slaves were happy-go-lucky” individuals that accepted their bondage; and that they loved their slave masters.

Today, we need to help our youth and adults feel the pain of the fire hoses, barking dogs, job discrimination, and unequal education because "Those who forget history are doomed to repeat it."

I also believe that we could intensify Founder’s Day. Founder’s Day should be more than a Sunday morning worship service. When I think about Richard Allen and his ministry, I get goose bumps because here was a man born in slavery, purchased his freedom, preached the gospel, helped the sick and the poor and became the first elected and consecrated bishop in our Zion; that’s worth, at least, a weekend remembrance; not a casual celebration, but a serious celebration. February 14th should be a holiday for all of the members of the African Methodist Episcopal Church. March 26th (or March 31st) should be a day remembrance and reflection. April 9-11 should be a time of celebration and Mother Bethel AME Church should be a revered site that all AMEs should visit.

We should never forget and we should not let our youth and adults forget. Lizkor, L’daber, Lo Lishkoach” "Those who forget history are doomed to repeat it."

Slavery has been abolished in America, but slavery is not abolished; look at the prison systems in America, look at some of the inner cities and poor rural areas in America. And, slavery does exist in other parts of the world, even today. "Those who forget history are doomed to repeat it."


2. TV ONE MAKES A GENEROUS CONTRIBUTION THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER MINISTRY:

The Christian Recorder would like to publicly thank TV One for the generous contribution it made in support of The Christian Recorder ministry.

TV One is a new cable/satellite television network, programming primarily to African American adults. TV One offers a broad range of lifestyle and entertainment-oriented programming that respects their values and reflects their intellectual and cultural diversity.

TV One's goal is to be distributed on the most widely available cable and satellite service level in markets where African Americans represent a significant segment of the population.

With an engaging mix of original and acquired programming from key entertainment genres, TV One's programming provides a sophisticated alternative for adult African American viewers.

TV One is a venture of Radio One, Inc., the largest radio broadcaster primarily targeting African American and urban listeners, and Comcast Corporation, the largest cable operator in the country, along with Bear Stearns, Constellation Ventures, Syndicated Communications and Opportunity Capital Partners.


This study provides a fresh look at more than 30 million African-Americans - based on the most detailed snapshot ever of African American life. Finding strong group identity around culture and traditions, the study sheds light on and shatters myths about who we are as a community.

To learn more about TV One go to http://www.tvoneonline.com/

3. US MILITARY DEATHS IN IRAQ WAR AT 4,171:

The Associated Press released the information that US military deaths in Iraq war has reached 4,171 as of Wednesday, Sept. 24, 2008 since the war began in March 2003.

It seems that very few Americans are concerned about the Iraqi War death count. We are more concerned with Wall Street and Main Street than the loss of life of young people in a war that should have never been.

4. BISHOP WILLIAMS HELPS TO OPEN COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS CENTER:

*Benjamin Harrison

Thursday, September 4, 2008 at 6 PM the South Carolina Department of Juvenile Justice (SCDJJ) honored the Rt. Rev. Dr. Preston W. Williams II, presiding Bishop of the 7th Episcopal District of the A.M.E. Church, at the grand opening celebration of the Bill Rogers Community Connections Center in Columbia, SC. Bishop Williams was one of several honored guests who played integral roles in the conception, design and realization of this community building project. In fact, Bishop Williams’ 2006 pledge of $100,000 dollars on behalf of the 7th Episcopal District, to assist with the building of the Center, was the single largest faith-based donation.

The 2.9 million dollar Community Connections Center was built because the SCDJJ was in need of a safe and secure environment that would allow for more private family visitation and enhanced treatment for incarcerated youth being paroled back into South Carolina’s communities. This new facility will now assist therapists, probation officers, educators, pastors, parents, and social workers with the creation of enhanced transition plans that ensure each child is provided every opportunity to succeed as they reenter society.

In 2005, a group of volunteers formed what is now called the Friends of Juvenile Justice (FJJ). This group, along with other recruited members, developed a Foundation with the expressed purpose of recruiting volunteers to be involved in the rehabilitative effort of incarcerated youth. At that time, one of the problems faced by volunteers, clergy and family members who came to visit as mentors, tutors, simple support or to provide for the spiritual needs of youth was simply that there existed no space where such efforts could occur.

The Foundation decided to build a building using no state funds and for the expressed purpose of serving as a visitors’ center for family and a site for volunteers to work with youth without being completely on SCDJJ institutional grounds. This approach was felt to be a more therapeutic and more importantly, a more humane manner in treating families and youth. The major hurdle was that the building would cost approximately 3 million dollars to construct and in light of the current economic recession, raising such a large amount of money was felt, by some, to be insurmountable.

A philanthropist, Bill Rogers, stepped in and pledged to match the funds provided by others, but would not furnish the full amount for the building. He wanted the effort to have a broad base of support, from the private sector and faith-based communities.

The closest and one of the oldest established partnerships between the Department of Juvenile Justice and the faith-based community is that of the arrangement between DJJ and the Seventh Episcopal District of the A.M.E. Church under the guidance and supervision of Bishop Preston W. Williams II. The leadership of DJJ and FJJ called upon Bishop and Mother Williams to assist in the building effort. Bishop Williams immediately went into action, sponsoring a catered dinner for DJJ officials and most importantly, nearly every leader of the faith based organizations in the Midlands area of South Carolina. Nearly ten different denominations accepted the invitation. Presentations were made by DJJ officials, represented by Judge Bill Byars, SCDJJ Director, and FJJ officials, represented by Ms. Louise Slater. The highlight of the evening was a presentation by two incarcerated youth to the group. They told their own story.

Bishop Williams, after hearing the plight of the youth and the need for this project, committed and pledged $100,000 to building the Community Connections Center. This generous offer was one of the first and largest faith-based contributions which opened the door for many other denominations’ contributions. Two years later, in great part due to Bishop Williams’ leadership, the Community Connection Center is now a reality.

*Benjamin Harrison is the Public Relations Director for the 7th District, AME Church

5. LIFE REFLECTIONS CELEBRATING THE LIFE OF THE REV. O’NEAL HAYES BROWN SR., PASTOR, PRESIDING ELDER, AUTHOR:

From Boy Preacher to Serving God and Humanity “A Legacy of 77 Years”: 6 years as a boy preacher; 52 years as a pastor; and 19 years as a presiding elder.

O’Neal Hayes Brown, Sr. is a native of West Columbia, South Carolina. He was born to the union of Laura West Brown and Hayes Brown. He grew up in a small community called Happy Town in Lexington County. His father died when he was 3 years old. His parents, four brothers, and two sisters, preceded him in transition. He started school during the days of ABC classes. His oldest sister, Irene, helped him structure sentences from the ABC book. He began quoting scriptures from memory and reading biblical stores from the Old and New Testament such as “Daniel in the Lion’s Den”, “The Prodigal Son”, “The Nicodemus Story” and others. As a little lad, he followed his mother to prayer meetings and sat on the altar kneeling pad while they prayed, read scriptures, sang and testified. He often testified that he was conceived in his mother’s womb to preach the Gospel. At the age of 5, he designed his own pulpit from a cardboard box and began preaching.

Reverend Brown was converted and baptized at an early age and united with Double Branch AME Church in West Columbia, South Carolina (now Turner Memorial AME Church). In 1927, he was licensed to preach at the age of 12. He preached his first official sermon, “The New Birth”, St. John 3:3 at New Brookland Baptist Church, West Columbia, SC. He traveled as a boy evangelist over several states, conducting revivals and preaching the Word of God. O’Neal, as he was called, loved to preach and sing. His favorite songs were “I’ll Go”, “He Lifted Me”, and “The Name of Jesus Is So Sweet.”

Go Preach My Gospel

In 1933, at the age of 16, and without transportation, he took the Bible, stepped out on faith and accepted his first pastoral appointment at Wateree Circuit of the Columbia South Carolina Conference of the 7th Episcopal District. Fortunately, hitchhiking was safe; therefore, without transportation he hitchhiked and in a matter of minutes, he had a ride.

In 1935, he relocated to St. Louis, Missouri. He preached his first sermon in the Missouri Conference at Wayman Temple AME Church at 23rd and Cole Streets, the Reverend R.L. Phillips was pastor. His first pastoral appointment in the Missouri Conference was at Buren Chapel AME Church, Herculaneum, Missouri. His weekly salary was $10.00.

In 1936, he united in holy matrimony to Rosie Lee Jackson. To this union nine children were born. He was a proud and devoted father who encouraged his children to get an education; and most of them graduated from college.

Reverend Brown served faithfully and diligently for 42 years as a pastor of eight churches in the Missouri Conference. He was referred to as the “Resolution Man” who wrote and read annual conference resolutions in the Missouri Annual Conference for 25 years. The 1965 Resolution is published in his book: “From Boy Preacher to Serving God & Humanity” – a Legacy of 77 years.

In 1963, at the 108th Session of the Missouri Annual Conference, he was appointed as the pastor of Parks Chapel AME Church, 208 Tuxedo Avenue in Webster Groves. His first responsibility was to relocate the church to where it is today. September 7, 1969, at a cost of $175,000, the congregation marched into a newly built sanctuary of architectural impressiveness and a monument to the AME Church and community.

October 1, 1977, he united in holy matrimony to Ernestyne K. Clay and was transferred to the Northwest Missouri Conference and appointed the pastor of Cain-Grant AME Church, Kansas City, Missouri. During his tenure of eight years, a parsonage was purchased.

In 1985, he was appointed Presiding Elder of the St. Louis-Cape Girardeau District of the Missouri Conference. He served the district with distinction, commitment, authenticity and allegiance for 19 years and licensed 66 men and women to preach the Gospel. He was appreciated for his steadfastness and dedication. Throughout his ministry he and his wife were honored in several appreciation programs.

The African Methodist Episcopal Church is grateful for his life and legacy of 77 years as an active Itinerant Elder. He was a good Christian soldier, quiet, unassuming who stood tall without wavering when the hills were steep and the valleys got low. Toiling up the heights of success, Reverend Brown maintained a good name. There is an edict stated in an old Negro spiritual that adequately expresses the services of Reverend Brown as a Servant of God and as a pastor.

You told me to pray, and I done prayed.
You told me to learn, and I done learned.
You told me to preach, and I done preached.
Lord, I done, done what you told me to do.

He leaves to cherish his legacy, a devoted and loving wife, Ernestyne “Peachy” (as he and others called her). Nine children, Robert Hayes Brown, Helen Louise Hairston (Attral), Joyce Katherine Phillips (Charles) Roland Samuel Brown (Naomi) Paul Frederick Brown (Janice) William Louis Brown, Sr. (Patricia) O’Neal Hayes Brown, Jr., Ruby Christine O’Quinn (Jerry) & Macie Monica Lee, two stepchildren: Loyse Clay, Jr. (Charlet) and Alisa K. Jones, five generations of grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and cousins.

6. ALLEGHENY SCRANTON DISTRICT GATHERS TO HELP CHURCH REDUCE MORTGAGE:

*Miss Shelly Brown

Are we our brother’s keeper? The answer certainly is “yes” as clergy and laity of the Allegheny Scranton District gathered at New Life African Methodist Episcopal Church on Sunday, September 21, 2008 for a Mortgage Rally. The purpose of the Rally was to help reduce the $90,000 remaining mortgage on their church building.

As Greater Allen A.M.E. Church Mass Choir, Pittsburgh, PA and Bethel A.M.E. Church, Tarentum, PA sang songs of Zion this set the tone for the powerful, spirited, anointed preached Word by the Reverend Dr. Eric L. Brown, Presiding Elder of the Allegheny Scranton District.

Dr. Brown’s sermon topic was, “Call on the Name of the Lord.” The scripture reference Genesis 12:8. Dr. Brown told us that there are three things that make us call on the name of the Lord: Our children, circumstances, and a covenant relationship. As the 12 faithful members of New Life African Methodist Episcopal Church and the pastor of New Life, the Reverend Melva Hartzog, have a covenant relationship with the Lord and have called on the name of the Lord, they have never had their utilities turned off nor missed a mortgage payment in excess of $1,000 per month.

As the praises went up, blessings poured down as clergy and laity contributed more than $4,000 towards the reduction of New Life’s mortgage. Reverend Hartzog wanted those in attendance to understand the work they are currently doing in the community. New Life is located in an inner city neighborhood rampant with crime. Underlying the violence that has crippled this neighborhood resides the causes: Poverty, homelessness, unemployment, hunger, and lack of education, drug and alcohol abuse, and lack of hope. The church, Reverend Hartzog stated, provides free hamburgers and hotdogs in the church parking on Saturday afternoons for anyone who comes by. They also provide free clothing. The community is encouraged to select articles of clothing from a large supply of slightly and gently worn clothing that have been donated to the New Life It is the belief of Reverend Hartzog that unless the physical needs of people are met, and people believe the church cares about them, the church is powerless in conveying the good news of the Gospel to the unchurched and non-believers. The provision of food and clothing is just a way of showing that the people of New Life AME Church care about the people.

*Miss Shelly Brown is the Allegheny Scranton District Secretary (Pittsburgh, PA)

7. GRANT CHAPEL AME CHURCH WORSHIPS IN THEIR TEMPORARY HOME:

*The Rev. V. Gordon Glenn III

Grant Chapel AME Church of Kansas City, Kansas is alive and well!

On Sunday, September 7, the good people of Grant Chapel celebrated worship, not in their former home at 2800 N. Tremont Street, but at the Jack Reardon Center, where the First Historic Midwest Annual Conference was recently held.

Sunday Church School began as usual at 9:30 a.m. with Pastor Glenn as the instructor. There were 10 people in attendance. Morning worship began promptly at 11 a.m. The praise team ministered to us in song, accompanied by our pianist Sis. Harriet Burris. Pastor Gordon Glenn preached from the 124th Psalm "What If the Lord Had Not Been on Our Side?”

Following the service of Holy Communion, the service ended in a prayer circle and count off. There were 43 people in attendance, which included The Rev. Steven A. Cousin, Presiding Elder of the Kansas City District and Bro. Joel Cousin.

Services for Grant Chapel are being held temporarily in the Jack Reardon Center as the church pursues permanent housing for the congregation. Structural issues have deemed our former home unsafe for occupation.

The temporary mailing address for the church is P.O. Box 171124, Kansas City, KS 66117.

*The Rev. V. Gordon Glenn III is the pastor of Grant Chapel AME Church, Kansas City, Kansas

"Every degree of hope brings a degree of joy.

8. WATCH OUT FOR SCAMS; THE REVEREND RONALD SLAUGHTER SHARES WHAT HAPPENED TO HIM:

The Rev. Ronald slaughter had his Hotmail email account hacked. Fortunately, Microsoft was able to recover his email account from an expert hacker who has been attacking Hotmail accounts.

One of his members has received an email from the hacker stating that Rev. Slaughter, who the hacker identified as a bishop, was in Nigeria and in need of $1,500 to pay a hotel bill. Microsoft has restored Rev. Slaughter’s email account. Rev. Slaughter says, “A note to everyone; please make sure to be careful with your email account and don’t open messages from people you don’t know.”

*The Rev. Ronald Slaughter is the pastor of St. Paul AME Church, Macon, Georgia

Editor’s Note: Mass addressees should never be put in the “To” email address box. The email addresses should always be sent from the “Bcc” address box.

9. THE 1ST EPISCOPAL DISTRICT 2008 – 2009 SCHEDULE OF MEETINGS AND ANNUAL CONFERENCES:

The Right Rev. Richard Franklin Norris, Presiding Prelate
Mrs. Mary Norris, Episcopal Supervisor

Fall Convocation
November 10-12, 2008
First District Plaza

Founder’s Day
February 12-14, 2009
First District Plaza

2009 ANNUAL CONFERENCES

The Bermuda Annual Conference

Evangelist Day: March 3, 2009:
WMS Conference Branch: March 4, 2009:
The Annual Conference: March 5-9, 2009

The Fairmont Southampton Princess
Resort Midocean Amphitheater

Church Phone: (441)239-0605
Host Presiding Elder: The Rev. Malcolm L Eve, (441) 239-1054

The New Jersey Annual Conference

Evangelist Day: March 16, 2009:
W.M.S. Conference Branch: March 17, 2009:

The Annual Conference: March 18-22, 2009.

Mount Zion AME Church
39 Morris Street
New Brunswick, NJ 08901

Church Office: (732) 249-8476
Host Pastor: The Rev. Joseph Hooper, (732) 545-1779

Host Presiding Elder: The Rev. M. Lloyd Guyton

The Delaware Annual Conference

Evangelist Day: March 24, 2009:
WMS Conference Branch: March 25, 2009:

The Annual Conference: March 26-29, 2009

Mt. Zion AME Church
101 North Queen Street
Dover, DE 19904

Church Office: (302) 678-9478

Host Pastor: The Rev. Ellis Louden, (302)-734-3131
Pastor Host Presiding Elder: The Rev. Winton Hill

The New England Annual Conference

Evangelist Day: April 14, 2009:
WMS Conference Branch: April 15, 2009:

The Annual Conference: April 16-19, 2009

Saint Paul AME Church
37 Bishop Allen Drive
Cambridge, MA 02139

Church Office: (617) 661-1110
Host Pastor: The Rev. Leroy Attles, (781) 963-5758
Host Presiding Elder: The Rev. Herbert L. Eddy

The New York Annual Conference

Evangelist Day: April 20, 2009
WMS Conference Branch: April 21, 2009

The Annual Conference: April 22-26, 2009

Greater Allen Cathedral
110-31 Merrick Blvd.
Jamaica, NY 11433
Church (718) 206-4600
Host Pastor: The Rev. Floyd H. Flake, (516) 334-6516
Host Presiding Elder: The Rev. Henrietta S. Fullard

The Western New York Annual Conference

Evangelist Day: May 12, 2009
W.M.S. Conference Branch: May 13, 2009

The Annual Conference: May 14-17, 2009

Bethel A.M.E. Church
1525 Michigan Avenue
Buffalo, NY 14209

Church Phone: (716) 886-1650
Host Pastor: The Rev. Richard A. Stenhouse, (716) 835-8992
Host Presiding Elder: The Rev. James E. F. Lawrence

The Philadelphia Annual Conference

Evangelist Day: May 18, 2009
WMS Conference Branch: May 19, 2009

The Annual Conference: May 20-24, 2009

Hickman Temple A.M.E. Church
5001 Baltimore Avenue
Philadelphia, PA 19143

Church (215) 476-5340
Host Pastor: The Rev. Jocelyn K. Hart, (610) 296-2798
Host Presiding Elder: The Rev. Charles H. Lett

District Planning Meeting
June 11-13, 2009
First District Plaza

Christian Education Congress
July 20-23, 2009
Wesley College
Dover, Delaware

FIRST EPISCOPAL DISTRICT HEADQUARTERS
3801 Market Street
Philadelphia, PA 19104

Phone (215) 662 0506
FAX (215) 662-0199

10. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

Sharing with regret, news of the passing of Mr. Maurice Mitchell, the nephew of the Rev. Tom W. Scott (Mrs. Priscilla Scott). Maurice Mitchell was tragically killed on Wednesday, September 17, 2008 in a plant explosion in East Camden, Arkansas.

Services for Mr. Maurice Mitchell:

Saturday, September 27, 2008, 11 a.m.
St. Stephens Baptist Church
Stephens, AR.

Arrangements have been entrusted to:
Andrews Funeral Home, INC
1211 E MAIN Street
El Dorado, AR 71730-6325
Phone: (870) 863-6805

Expressions of sympathy may be sent to:

The Rev. and Mrs. Tom W. Scott
6710 Twin Oak
Pine Bluff, AR 71603
(870) 879-1851
(870) 413-0021

11. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

Sharing with regret, news of the passing of Brother Ephraim Curry, member of St. John - River Rouge, Michigan. Brother Curry made his transition from labor to reward on Thursday, September 18, 2008. He is the grandfather of the Rev. Gerald Cardwell, pastor of St. John and is survived by his wife Myrtle, son Harold, daughters Billie Jean and Vickie and a host of grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Service arrangements for Brother Ephraim Curry:

Public Viewing:

Thursday, September 25, 2008
6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.
Haley Funeral Home
24525 Northwestern Hwy
Southfield, Michigan 48075
(Phone) 248-356-4800

Homegoing Service

Friday, September 26, 2008
Family Hour: 10:00 a.m.
Funeral Service: 11:00 a.m.

St. John AME Church
505 Beechwood
River Rouge, MI 48218-1041
(Phone) 313-386-2288
(Fax) 313-386-5986

Expressions of sympathy may be sent to:

The Rev. Gerald Cardwell
St. John A.M.E. Church
505 Beechwood
River Rouge, Michigan 48218

Email: gcardw7307@msn.com

12. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

We regret to inform you of the passing of Mr. Warrington George Somers Zuill, the father of Mrs. DeJeonge A. Justice and father in law of the Reverend John C. Justice, the pastor of St. Mark AMEC, in Cranford, New Jersey (New Brunswick District, New Jersey Conference). The following information has been provided regarding funeral arrangements.

Funeral - Saturday, September 27, 2008 at 1:00 p.m.

The First Church of God
# 1 First Church Lane
North Shore, Pembroke East
Bermuda

Condolences may be sent to:

The Rev. John and Mrs. DeJeonge Justice
7 Frog Lane
Devonshire, Bermuda DV02
Phone: 1-441-292-0475

Services entrusted to:

D. H. Augustus and Sons Funeral Home
P. O. Box 1809
# 15 Elliott Street
Hamilton, Bermuda HM HX
Phone: 1-441-292-5251
Fax: 1-441-295-5285

13. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

It is with sadness that we report the homegoing of Mrs. Bobbye Etta Hughes, the mother of the Rev. Pamela Mason. Rev. Mason is the pastor of Carter Memorial AME Church in Fresno, California.

Service arrangements for Mrs. Bobbye Etta Hughes are as follows:

Memorial Service:

Monday, September 29, 2008
1:00 p.m.
Jesse Cooley Funeral Home
1830 S. Fruit Ave.
Fresno, CA 93706
Phone: (559) 268-8048
Fax: (559) 268-8123

Condolences can be sent to:

The Rev. Pamela Mason
2324 E. Katherine Ave.
Fowler, CA 93625

14. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICES AND CONGRATULATORY ANNOUNCEMENTS PROVIDED BY:

The Clergy Family Information Center
Bishop Carolyn Tyler Guidry, Chair
Commission on Social Action

Ora L. Easley, Administrator
AMEC Clergy Family Information Center
E-mail: Amespouses1@bellsouth.net
Phone: (615) 837-9736
Voice Mail: (615) 833-6936
Fax: (615) 833-3781
Cell: (615) 403-7751

15. CONDOLENCES TO THE BEREAVED FROM THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER:

The Chair of the Commission on Publications, the Right Reverend Richard Franklin Norris; the Publisher, the Reverend Dr. Johnny Barbour and the Editor of The Christian Recorder, the Reverend Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III offer our condolences and prayers to those who have lost loved ones. We pray that the peace of Christ will be with you during this time of your bereavement.

THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER ONLINE ENGLISH EDITION (9/18/08)

Bishop Richard Franklin Norris - Chair, Commission on Publications
The Reverend Dr. Johnny Barbour, Jr., Publisher
The Reverend Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III, Editor, The Christian Recorder

1. EDITORIAL –THE MILITARY HAS LEARNED FROM THE CHURCH; AND THE CHURCH CAN LEARN FROM THE MILITARY - PART 2:

Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III
The 20th Editor of The Christian Recorder

Part 1 of this editorial addressed the military’s use of the term, “doctrine,” which appears to be a term that the military “borrowed” from the religious sector. The editorial also addressed some things the AME Church might want to learn from the military, such as, efficiency reports, promotions of qualified persons, both clergy and lay, and a strict expectation and accountability for integrity. The editorial ended with the expectation that persons in leadership positions should possess the right mental attitude and the right mental aptitude to fill the positions of leadership in the local and connectional Church.

Teamwork is important in the military because of the nature if its mission, and because of its mission, the military has a strong concept and expectation of teamwork.

In the military, it is the expectation that everyone, up and down the chain of command, knows the value of working as a team. Anyone who has played a team sport knows that when the coach goes over strategy and plays, everybody on the team sees the same chalkboard or screen and every player sees the assignment of every team member. The military follows the same protocol. Every military team member knows the responsibilities of everyone on the team. Those who try to go it alone have their careers curtailed and they revert to being civilians. In staff meetings, which are held regularly, there are no surprises because there is a written agenda that’s followed. Another reason for the “no surprises” is that there is almost always a “meeting before the meeting.” If you want to drive an active, former, or retired military person “crazy” in a meeting, just announce “You all don’t know this, but I want to tell you…,” in other words, spring a surprise, because a surprise, good or bad, is not indicative of teamwork.

Sometimes it appears that church members are going in one direction, the pastor in another direction, and the presiding elder going, in yet, another direction; which does not model “functioning as a team.”

I suspect that there are times when a bishop gives a directive to a presiding elder, that directive does not get disseminated to all of the pastors, much less to the local church membership. There are instances where a presiding elder passes information to pastors who fail to disseminate the information to the local church.

Following the military model and protocol, when a bishop has a meeting with presiding elders, the presiding elders should immediately have a meeting with all of the pastors. Yep, meetings are a hassle and very few of us like them, but if an organization is going to function as a team, information is important and necessary. And, yes, I know about gasoline prices and the long distances of some of the presiding elder districts; but all meetings do not require travel. Telephonic meetings would be the answer to high fuel costs and long distances; and it eliminates excuses. If a presiding elder had a telephonic meeting at 9 p.m., I don’t think that any pastor would have to be excused because he or she had a funeral.

When presiding elders have meetings with pastors, the assumption is that the meeting was important and the contents of the meeting would require action and that the pressing elder disseminated information would be helpful to the local church leadership. And, following the military model again, pastors, after meeting with the presiding elder, should meet with their local church officers. I suspect that in most cases, ultimately the local church has to respond to any directives from the presiding elder and the bishop. Some business needs to be taken care of before Sunday and yep, I know that it’s a hassle to call meetings. Ain’t no sense in making everybody get in their cars to drive to a meeting; here again, a telephonic meeting could be called. As a matter of fact, a bishop could have telephonic meetings with his or her presiding elders. Actually, the technology is in place to hold video-teleconference meetings where attendees participate from their homes.

In the military, when a leader gives an order, everyone in the chain of command is expected to execute; no excuses. I have heard and even observed in years past on numerous occasions; a bishop gives an order or directive and the presiding elder and pastors simply ignored it. We have all seen pastors who have ignored the directives of their presiding elder. And, all of us have experienced church members and church officers ignore pastoral directives; and all of those instances demonstrate a lack of teamwork.

The General Secretary’s office requires electronic reports, but I would bet; if I were a betting person; that he still receives hardcopy reports. The Christian Recorder stopped receiving hardcopy articles almost four years ago and a few people still want to send in hardcopy articles. Hardcopy reports and computer disks are remnants of the last century. The Twenty-First Century technology is electronic, telephonic, High Definition, 3-G, and now 4-G.

And, while I am on technology, young people get most of their information from computers. Churches that use newspaper announcements and radio spots are using last century’s information technology. Young people resonate with information flashed on a screen more than they do accessing information from a church bulletin. The military has made the transition; the Church needs to make the transition. I hope that all of the bishops have given the directive for all churches and pastors to be connected to the internet. If the bishops haven’t given that directive; society has!

There is a story in the artillery community where a sergeant announced to the commander that the enemy was in firing range and the commander, who had been in the Army for a long time, responded to the young sergeant, “If the enemy is in range, so are we and we don’t have time to mess around. We either need to retreat out of range or prepare to fire.” The moral of that story extends far beyond the military illustration. If a pastor has it in his or her mind to expurgate someone who disagree him or her; the pastor needs to understand that if the person they want to expurgate is in range; the pastor is in range also. In organizational conflict, action has to be taken and hopefully taken without casualties and one way is to stay out of the range of fire. The military thought is, “Keep your friends close; but keep your enemies closer.”

The military addresses conflict head-on regularly through conflict resolution workshops and training and it seems to me that conflict resolution is needed in many of our churches. As I heard Dr. Frank Madison Reid III say some years ago, “Oppressed people are masters at oppressing others.” Some of our churches need to be taught how to handle anger appropriately and how to have a “fair fight.” Some of our pastors and church leaders need training in the area of conflict resolution and in other areas that affect congregational life.

It’s a good thing that organizations can learn from each other.

Editor’s Note: Maybe a Part 3 later.

2. READER RESPONSE TO EDITORIAL AND OTHER ISSUES:

- To the Editor:

RE: Editorial, The Military has Learned from the Church; and the Church Can Learn from the Military - Part 1

Thank you for addressing a much needed topic for those of us who love the AME Church and its mission "to save the lost and serve the needy."

I believe if we are to grow, we must pray and change from our "wicked ways" and if we are to move the ministry forward, we must "seek the wisdom and face of God" and make adjustments in our attitudes.

More importantly, the leaders of our church we must not only preach, we must also teach. No one can lead where they will not go, nor can one teach what they do not know or understand.
Local leaders and clergy who consistently show an unwillingness to learn how to lead and serve in the church can be a sign of both fear; and a lack of vision. Fear and faith cannot reside at the same time in heart and mind.

"Love casts out fear" and “Without vision” (prophecy of God's Word, God's Will and God's Way), “a people perish” (diminish and decline in things of the Spirit)."

Therefore, there is a need for meaningful change in leadership roles where there is something observably wrong or missing in carrying out the "Great Commission."

Thanks for your thoughtful and challenging words; too often, unspoken and not discussed in our conference meetings. The lack of integrity among our leadership in some of our local, district and conference levels of both laity and clergy continues to do more harm to the body of Christ and to our witness for discipleship and stewardship; and hinders local and connectional church growth than anything else.

Something has to be done! If we won't do something, then God forbid, and shame on us.

A Concerned Pastor
(Name withheld by request)

3. AN EXCHANGE OF IDEAS AND THOUGHTS IN RESPONSE TO THE EDITORIAL - THE MILITARY HAS LEARNED FROM THE CHURCH; AND THE CHURCH CAN LEARN FROM THE MILITARY - PART 1:

To the Editor:

I truly enjoy your editorials and think that they are on target. You address issues that focus on local leadership of pastors who are "congregational killers" and the congregation cannot do anything because a bishop, often, does not have the option of reassigning a pastor who needs to be reassigned because the Ministers' Bill of Rights places limitations upon bishops.

Do you have any suggestions that might help to remedy this situation? Church's memberships have deceased, stewardship has declined, and many of our church structures have deteriorated. The perception in many of our churches is that some pastors seem more comfortable with members and local church officers they can control.
While I value your editorials, citing suggestions to deal with pastors who do not respect the AME Doctrine, would be helpful.

The Rev. Emma Jean Ghee Leche, Ph.D
Itinerate Elder
Washington, DC

- Editor’s Note: The message below is Dr. Paulette Coleman’s response to “Rev. Jean’s” comments; and her response the editorial, The Military has Learned from the Church; and the Church Can Learn from the Military - Part 1. Both messages are being used with the permission of the writers.

- Dear “Rev. Jean”:

Thank you for sharing your thoughts.

I am not certain that the Ministers’ Bill of Rights actually places limitations on bishops.

After I read your comments, I went back to The Discipline (2004) and took a look at the Ministers’ Bill of Rights. It does provide the opportunity to reassign pastors to “a pastoral appointment equal to their abilities, training, and experience, when available (page 112).

Several questions are raised from this portion of the Bill of Rights. How are the abilities, training, and experience of objectively determined? How is the determination made regarding availability?

“The new appointment, when available, should be comparable to or better than the previous one, provided the pastor has not been found guilty under Judicial Administration. The action may result in location or an appointment that reflects the Church’s current standing at the time of his or her departure.”

Who or what determines the Church’s current standing at the time of the pastor’s departure? The case might be made that even in the absence of a guilty finding under Judicial Administration, a pastor can be located or appointed to a charge that reflects his/her present Church’s current standing at the time of his or her departure. Again fairness, objectivity, and transparency must prevail when making such determinations.

I think Dr. Sydnor’s points about efficiency reports in the military (also known as evaluations or performance appraisals) have relevance for pastors and presiding elders. What if there were clearly defined performance measures or goals for pastors and presiding elders that are articulated at the beginning of the year (rating period)? Additionally, suppose the Church had a system for periodically monitoring the servants of the Church to determine progress toward achieving their pre-determined and mutually-agreed upon goals and milestones. What if there were then resources such as coaching, professional development and other training opportunities available to insure achievement of the annual goals? I believe there is a reasonable expectation that the end of year results should reveal a high percentage of the achieved goals.

Similarly, I think evaluations or performance appraisals are also necessary for laity in the local church, especially for stewards, trustees, and presidents/directors/heads of organizations and ministries. Ostensibly, General Officers and Bishops have such a review annually at the General Board and quadrennially at the General Conference. Pastors, arguably have a similar review at the Annual Conference. The limitations of all of these existing and potentially powerful accountability systems is that they are all self-reported with little or no outside and objective verification.

Another challenge in the general areas of performance measurement, outcomes driven results, and productivity is that our current system is combative and accusatory. It would be helpful if the Church could create an environment in which systems and processes could be put in place to insure that all leaders (clergy and lay) are equipped to succeed by achieving their individual and local church goals. By extension the leaders and members would then have the skills, resources, etc. to achieve the Great Commission and our denominationally specific mission.

We should all be reminded that evaluations and performance appraisals are only one part of a comprehensive personnel policy. Best practices in nonprofit management demonstrate that the ideal performance appraisal management cycle, involves a continuous five phase process of planning, execution, assessment, review, and appraisal. Further, best practices also indicate that performance appraisals should be done annually either at the end of the Conference year or the calendar year, or the anniversary of the leaders’ hiring, or some other mutually agreed upon time. Servants of the Church should be assessed against established job standards and requirements; mutually agreed upon goals within a specific timeframe; and measurable performance that is defined and supported by documented evidence.

Thanks for igniting these thought and allowing me the opportunity to respond to your comments.

*Paulette Coleman, Ph.D. is a retired General Officer

4. DR. RODGER REED RESPONDS TO THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER BREAKING NEWS: AME CHURCH BUILDING DESTROYED IN INDIA:

Editor’s Note: Dr. Reed specifically commented on my recommend that the AME Church Episcopal Leadership contact the State Department and lodge a request for assistance in urging the government of India to protect our members and church properties in India. A formal complaint needs to be made to the highest levels the U.S. government and to the highest levels of the government of India.

To the Editor:

I agree that the church needs to take a stand. However, the responsibility for that stand demands a response from the global Christian churches. The World Council of Churches should partner with any and all Protestant churches to approach this problem. As we push for such a response in Council meetings, there also needs to be a unified effort by the traditional black Methodist churches. The outcry needs to be directed by traditional established unions who fail to do any more than pray and make a resolution. The World Methodist Council needs to address this situation with all of their resources (diplomatic, teaching tools, economic and educational tools, etc.). Further, perhaps we have not been as responsible as we could because we, the global AME Church, have not been educated on the issues and therefore no real interest has been forged. Perhaps our Christian Education Department needs to develop a teaching tool around the subjects of global issues that demand an educated, focused Christian response by people of faith. One of our weaknesses is the fact that we have failed, historically, to empower our Departments with finances and staff to begin this task. We may be bogged down in issues of trust when God is calling for a response from God’s people around love and justice.

As it relates to our ministry in India, I would like to receive more information as it concerns the AME Church in India. To my understanding, which is very limited, Christian churches in that country run contrary to centuries of imbedded religious beliefs. Further, violence is not uncommon to those who embrace Christianity in some areas of India. While I believe deeply that we must pray for those, whose hard work has been destroyed, we must also become informed of the conditions under which we attempted this missionary effort. I really believe that as a denomination, we have an obligation to become fully informed about India. While this is an issue which ought to engage the Protestant community as a whole, there is much we may be able to do as a denomination in concert with the other members of the Pan-African movement.

As it relates to the larger Protestant community, the World Council of Methodist as well as the World Council of Churches ought to embrace the situation. To my thinking, the Christian church in India is going to require interventions in diplomacy, raising cultural awareness among indigenous population, slow and painstaking approaches to win the hearts and minds of local officials and much more. There must be an overarching strategy from the highest levels of the AME Church in concert with the government that is embraced by the people before we are going to have a successful missionary effort, in India, as well as other parts of the world.

I agree that the church needs to take a stand. However, the responsibility for that stand demands a partnering with any and all Protestant churches to approach this situation. The WCC and the World Methodist Council needs to address with all of their resources (diplomatic, teaching tools, economic and educational tools, etc.) this situation.

We need to do more than pray and make resolutions. The major Black Methodist bodies, working together, might well begin a work of placing vital issues before the people and developing a strategy for success. This is not a win “in a few days or months” project. We must be in it for the long-haul.

Well, we must pray; and now the discussion centers on: "What is prayer?" Is Prayer the uttering of words toward Heaven or is there a broader response which leads to "prayer actions" which is praying that demands that those who pray…make a commitment which goes beyond bended knees, etc.

Well, there is much we need to continue to ponder. My prayer is that we, as a denomination, begin to place into action positive responses to major issues rather than indulging in negative issues which do not unite us. We are far better than that because we can “do all things through Christ ... for He does strengthen.”

Well, these are things to continue to ponder.

*Dr. Rodger Reed, Sr. the pastor of Campbell AME Church in Southeast Washington, DC

Editor’s Note: India has about 1 billion people of which about 80% are Hindu, 14% are Muslim, 2% are Christian, and 6% followers of other religions.

Historically, India has had a high level of religious tolerance until 1998 when the Hindu Bharatiya Janata Party came to power. Some Hindu leaders attempted to get a bill to prohibited religious conversions and to prohibit people from proselytizing. They were especially concerned about the influence of the Christian Church.

The AME Church does not condone the violence to our members and the destruction of African Methodist Episcopal Churches.

5. 8TH DISTRICT DISASTER RELIEF DISTRIBUTION CENTER IS GROWING:

Monday, September 15, 2008

As organizations from the government, non-profit agencies, as well as religious institutions scramble to coordinate their support, the 8th Episcopal District is standing tall in the midst of the storm. Many of the disaster relief relationships that were established during the wake of Hurricane Katrina have been utilized during the current storm season. As well many new relationships have been made that have elevated the position of the 8th Episcopal District in disaster response. Reverend Belinda Washington is the lead person in the facilitation of the 8th District Disaster Relief Distribution Center based in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Currently the federal government has made disaster declarations in both Louisiana and Texas therefore FEMA and other governmental agencies have been activated to bring emergency response help. Rev. Washington is sitting at the table of coordination as well she serves as a Louisiana point of contact for distribution of goods in Southern Louisiana for the 8th Episcopal District and beyond.
Deliveries have already been made to AME churches in southern Louisiana like Nelson Chapel AME Church in Napoleonville LA. Rev. Richard Starks has been doing well with keeping his members supplied with necessities through the distribution center. This area was hard hit by Hurricane Gustav and was spared most of the wrath of Hurricane Ike. Flooding in these areas still took place and support is still necessary. Currently the 8th District Disaster Relief Distribution Center is deploying two (2) U-Haul trucks for delivery to church sites.

Should you or you church want to coordinate to send supplies to 8th District Disaster Relief Distribution Center, please contact Rev. Cory Watts (revcorywatts@hotmail.com) and/or Rev. Belinda Washington (belinwash@gmail.com) before sending any items or financial support so that we will be able to better direct the support. The distribution center is located at the following address:

8th District Disaster Relief Distribution Center
2312 Scenic Highway
Baton Rouge, LA 70802

The Reverend Cory M Watts
Bonner Campbell Disaster Shelter
Relief Shelter Site Director
revcorywatts@hotmail.com
404-840-3563 - cell

Bonner Campbell College
18449 Old Hwy 80
Edwards, MS
601-852-5401

6. MEMBER OF THE AME ON THE COVER OF JET MAGAZINE:

Brother Carl Davis of Houston, Texas is pictured in this week edition of Jet Magazine dated September 15, 2008.

On the cover is Barack Obama waving to the crowd after his acceptance speech at the Democratic National Convention in Denver, Colorado. Brother Davis was a delegate to that historical convention. There is a photo on Page 34 of some of the nearly 1200 African American Delegates to the convention and Carl Davis is in the front row.

Please get a copy of this edition because it was truly an historical occasion and we are proud that Carl Davis, a member of the African Methodist Episcopal Church was a part of that memorable convention.

If you keep a copy of Jet Magazine and if you desire, Brother Carl Davis will autograph the magazine for you.

7. THE LUTISHA COLEMAN-MORTON MUSIC SCHOLARSHIP:

If there ever was a woman who could make a piano walk and talk it would have to be Lutisha Coleman-Morton. Lutisha has been playing the piano since the age of five and has never let the love of the ivories go. Now her family is keeping Lutisha’s love of music alive by awarding $1,000 to a deserving music student annually for up to five years at Kentucky State University.

The scholarship was the dream of Lutisha’s son, Lawrence Coleman, who wanted to honor his mother’s legacy and her love of music. So he talked with his brothers and sister and they got the ball rolling.

On August 1, 2008, all their work paid off as more than 100 of Lutisha’s family and friends gathered for the first annual “Lutisha Coleman-Morton Music Scholarship Gala”. It was a night to raise money for the scholarship and to honor Lutisha’s contributions to several musical events across the Central Kentucky area over the years. The night included musical presentations from several outstanding African-American students who have made music a part of their lives. The night ended with a special musical presentation by the honoree herself, Mrs. Lutisha Coleman-Morton.

Lutisha has served as Minister of Music at Quinn Chapel AME Church, Lexington; Kentucky Conference Choir Director; Kentucky Conference YPD Choir Director; assistant music therapist and assistant recreation director at Eastern State Hospital and music instructor for several schools within the Fayette County School System.

Submitted by Ms. Valeria Swope

8. STUDIES FIND DRAMATIC INCREASE IN SUICIDE AMONG ADOLESCENT AFRICAN-AMERICAN MALES:

By Dr. Henrie M. Treadwell

ATLANTA-Not long ago, the words “suicide” and “African Americans” were almost never mentioned in the same breath. Despite confronting challenges from slavery to Jim Crow to structural racism, blacks rarely took their own lives. It was a positive health disparity. Until now.

There is alarming evidence that the suicide rate for young African-American men is escalating, and just as much evidence that America’s health-care system is ill-equipped to curb it.

Dr. Claire Xanthos, a health services research specialist, recently wrote a policy paper citing studies showing that from 1980 to 1995, the suicide rate for black adolescents rose from 5.6 to per 100,000 of the population. Put in starker terms: this doubling of the suicide rate for young black males has made it the third-leading cause of death among that demographic group.

Clearly, it is a complex problem that is directly related to life experiences of young African-American males in America. While the suicide rate for young black men has risen, the suicide rate for black women remains among the lowest of any demographic group.

So why are our young black men killing themselves?

Dr. Xanthos concludes there are many factors, and among them are the race-related challenges that these youths face. The data show that they go to jail, drop out of school and become victims of crime at rates far higher than their white counterparts. Moreover, young black males are more likely than not to live in a family environment that is less than ideal; roughly 70 percent of African Americans live in single-parent homes.

The combination of family stress, violence in their communities, and the stigma and discrimination they face is taking a toll on young black males. Some mental health specialists, such as Dr. Alvin Poussaint, argue that “death by cop” incidents should be counted as suicide. These are occasions when black youths are despondent and won’t commit suicide, but purposely break the law so someone else will kill them.

“How many young men who put themselves in situations where it’s very likely that they’re going to get shot to death are actually committing suicide?” asked Dr. Poussaint in a recent interview on National Public Radio. “There is such a thing as what we call victim-precipitated homicide, which is suicide. The most classic example would be suicide by cop, which you read about in the newspaper from time to time, where people wanted to be shot to be killed because they were suicidal, but they didn’t want to do it themselves…because there’s still a stigma attached to committing suicide, so they’d rather have someone else kill them or have it seem like an accident.”

This rising suicide tide can impact middle-class black teenagers in white suburbs, as well as those in inner-city neighborhoods. In fact, Dr. Xanthos argues that black youths living in white communities often face the trauma of not relating to their white neighbors and also feeling estranged from blacks from poorer, urban settings. Certainly, the death of James Dungy, the 18-year-old son of Indianapolis Colts coach Tony Dungy, underscored that suicide can strike the rich and poor.

What’s clear is that black communities, healthcare professionals and public health officials must mobilize to meet the challenges presented by this problem.

The stigma towards mental illness in the black communities is so taboo that obvious signs that someone has a problem are frequently ignored, even by close family members and friends. The first step must come from parents and friends recognizing the behavior patterns that indicate someone has a problem, and then working to get help for that person.

There is also a crucial role to be played by public health programs, such as Medicaid, which must make it easier for young black men to receive counseling and treatments. But once these teens get to treatment facilities another problem develops: the lack of black therapists, counselors and psychiatrists. According to data, blacks are about four percent of the nation’s psychiatrists, three percent of the psychologists and seven percent of social workers. It’s imperative that more African Americans be trained for those positions. The problems weighing on many black youths are created by racism and the family, educational and urban tensions that they face in everyday life. In these instances, an African-American counselor or physician who may be more likely to grasp the situation is needed to provide assistance.

Dr. Xanthos also raises the need for more “bicultural’’ training for young black males. Or put another way, it is learning to survive in a white society. Such training would better prepare black youths for integration into schools and workplaces that are predominantly white, while also preparing black youths to confront and overcome the discrimination they are likely to face in American society. This problem can no longer be ignored. It must be faced in our homes, our communities and by public officials in schools and health facilities.

The reality is that young black males face some of the biggest hurdles in our society, and if they are going succeed we all must do a better job of identifying people with problems and facilitating the treatment that can put them on a successful path.

*Used with permission of Dr. Melva B. Robertson, Health Communications Specialist, Community Voices: Healthcare for the Underserved, National Center for Primary Care, Morehouse School of Medicine

9. QUARTERLY CONFERENCE AT GREATER BETHEL AME CHURCH, MIAMI, A LEARNING AND TEACHING EVENT:

Greater Bethel AME Church, 245 NW 8th Street Miami, Florida held its Quarterly Conference that opened with devotional hymns “Pass Me Not, O Gentle Savior,” and “Standing on the Promises.” The Quarterly Conference opening prayer and scripture was given by the pastor, the Rev. Samuel E. Sullivan.

The Rev. Samuel E. Sullivan introduced the Rev. John F. Bodison, the Presiding Elder commenced with the necessary procedures of organizing the Quarterly Conference. Ms. Altamease Mitchell served as secretary and Mrs. Gwen Dickson was appointed reporter. Marshals were selected and boundaries set which were the first ten pews in the middle aisle of the sanctuary.

The minutes were read silently and it was moved by Sister Nina Parker that the minutes be accepted with corrections if necessary, Mr. Hargrove seconded the motion. The motion carried.

Before reading the organizational reports, the presiding elder advised that we would need to submit, to the District, a copy of our corporation papers and the declaration page (first page) of the deed to Greater Bethel. This request was coming from the attorney for the Episcopal District.

The meeting proceeded with report of the Steward Board. In the Steward Board’s report the Stewards asked that the Bishop McKinley Young, in his Godly wisdom, return our pastor and presiding elder.

The Trustee Board and the Church School reports were read. Brother Arlester Shorter moved that the remaining board reports be accepted.

Presiding Elder Bodison advised he would like for all the reports to be read since it was the last quarter in the conference year. The remaining board’s reports were read: the Symonette Mass Choir, Lay Organization, Male Usher Board, and the Sons of Allen. All clubs and boards gave a verbal request that the pastor be returned to Greater Bethel and the Elder be returned to the District.

Elder Bodison advised against being partial to one presidential candidate over another; and that they needed to treat both presidential candidates equally. The Elder encouraged everyone to vote for the candidate of their choice and there should be no favoritism from the pulpit. Brother Goldsby expressed their joy at the election and consecration of the Right Reverend John F. White.

Brother Santarvius Brown read his report to the members stating some of his accomplishments since entering into the field of ministry and advised that he is now attending Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary studying Greek, Hebrew, Christian History, and Christian Ethics. Brother Brown’s report was accepted with commendation.

During the memorial ceremony, Brother Buster McFadden spoke on the life of Brother William (Bill) Sawyer who passed on April 11, 2008.

Rev. Sullivan made final remarks and thanked everyone for their attendance.

Meeting adjourned with prayer by Elder Bodison.

Gwendolyn Y. Dickson, Reporter

10. EPISCOPAL FAMILY PRAYER REQUEST:

Please pray for Herbert Brookins the brother of Bishop H. H. Brookins.

Mr. Herbert Brookins had a blood clot removed from the base of his neck. The surgery was a success. Please pray for his speedy recovery and remember his brother’s wife, Shirley and their family.

Get well cards and expressions for Mr. Herbert Brookins can be sent to the following address:

Mr. Herbert Brookins5608 BowcroftLos Angeles, Ca 90043

Also, please keep Bishop Brookins, who is in a nursing home, lifted in prayer.

Get well cards and expressions to Bishop Brookins can be sent to the following address:

Bishop H. H. Brookins
Brier Oak Nursing Facility5154 SunsetLos Angeles, Ca 90027
Thank you in advance and God bless!

Received from: The Reverend Rosalynn K. Brookins, Former Episcopal Supervisor

The information in this message was received from Mrs. Ora L. Easley, Administrator AMEC Clergy Family Information Center

11. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

We regret to inform you of the passing of Brother William D. Stovall, husband of the Reverend V. Cora Stovall, Pastor of Mt. View AME Church in Winchester, Tennessee.

Brother William D. Stovall, the 3rd place winner of the connectional 1st gentleman contest sponsored by CONN-M-SWAWO + PK'S at the Breakfast event held during General Conference 2008 and a long-time survivor of sickle cell disease, passed on Tuesday morning, September 16th.

Service arrangements for Brother William D. Stovall:

Family Visitation:
Thursday, September 18, 2008
6:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.
John P. Franklin Funeral Home
1101 Dodds Avenue
Chattanooga, TN 37404
Phone: (423) 622-9995
Fax: (423) 622-9990

The Funeral:
Friday, September 19, 2008
12:00 Noon
Warren Chapel AME Church
501 N. Market Street
Chattanooga, TN 37405
(Phone) 423-267-0702
The Rev. Dr. Terence Mayes, Pastor

Expressions of sympathy may be sent to:
The Rev. V. Cora Stovall and family
1905 Bella Vista Drive
Chattanooga, TN 37421

Phone: (423) 490-1557
Email: funnyeyez@hotmail.com

Sandra C. Griffin, D.Min, President, East Tennessee Conference Ministers' Spouses (Sister-in-law of Bro. Stovall)

The Rev. Kenneth H. Hill, Ph.D., Presiding Elder
Chattanooga District-East Tennessee Annual Conference

12. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

We regret to inform you of the passing of the Rev. James L. Dandridge, a retired pastor in the First Episcopal District. Rev. Dandridge was a prolific preacher and a prominent community leader in both the Delaware and Philadelphia Conferences. The following information has been provided regarding funeral arrangements.

Viewing, Sunday, September 21, 2008, 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Terry Funeral Home
4203 Haverford Ave.
Philadelphia, PA 19104
Phone: 215-222-2828

Viewing and Funeral, Monday, September 22, 2008
Viewing - 9:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.
Funeral - 11:00 a.m.

Mt. Pisgah A.M.E. Church
428 North 41st Street
Philadelphia, PA 19104
Phone: 215-386-6181
Fax: 215-386-3341

The Rev. Jay B. Broadnax, Pastor

Bishop Richard F. Norris, Eulogist

Condolences may be sent to:

William Dandridge (son) and Gloria Wilson (sister-in-law)
2773 Island Avenue
Philadelphia, Pa 19153
Phone: 215-365-5124

13. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

We regret to inform you of the passing of Rev. John Kemp, a retired pastor in the First Episcopal District. Rev. Kemp was the former pastor of several churches in the New York Conference. The following information has been provided regarding funeral arrangements.

Viewing and Funeral, Thursday, September 25, 2008
Viewing - 3:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.
Funeral - 7:00 p.m.

St. John A.M.E. Church
664 Halsey Street
Brooklyn, NY 11233
Phone: 718-574-8202
Fax: 718-574-8202

The Rev. Paul S. Owings, Pastor

Condolences may be sent to:

Gregory Kemp
431 Berriman Street
Brooklyn, NY 11208

14. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICES AND CONGRATULATORY ANNOUNCEMENTS PROVIDED BY:

The Clergy Family Information Center
Bishop Carolyn Tyler Guidry, Chair
Commission on Social Action

Ora L. Easley, Administrator
AMEC Clergy Family Information Center
E-mail: Amespouses1@bellsouth.net
Phone: (615) 837-9736
Voice Mail: (615) 833-6936
Fax: (615) 833-3781
Cell: (615) 403-7751

15. CONDOLENCES TO THE BEREAVED FROM THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER:

The Chair of the Commission on Publications, the Right Reverend Richard Franklin Norris; the Publisher, the Reverend Dr. Johnny Barbour and the Editor of The Christian Recorder, the Reverend Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III offer our condolences and prayers to those who have lost loved ones. We pray that the peace of Christ will be with you during this time of your bereavement.