THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER ONLINE ENGLISH EDITION (5/29/08)

Bishop Gregory G. M. Ingram - Chair, Commission on Publications
The Reverend Dr. Johnny Barbour, Jr., Publisher
The Reverend Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III, Editor, The Christian Recorder

1. STATEMENTS MADE AT THE GRADUATION CEREMONY MY GRANDSON, CALVIN V:

“It's foolish to expect your ship to come in if you haven't sent one out.”

“Little lies are no more harmless than big ones.”

“Fear wears many masks.”

From the graduation speech of Dr. Timothy J. Sullivan, graduation speaker at the Hampton Roads Academy Dr. Sullivan previously served as the President of William and Mary.

2. FOR ALL OF THE GENERAL CONFERENCE INFORMATION:

http://www.ame-church.com/news-and-events/general-conference/quadrennial08.php


3. THE DEPARTMENT OF GLOBAL WITNESS AND MINISTRY AND DR. GEORGE FLOWERS PERSONALLY CONTRIBUTE TO THE DISASTERS IN MYANMAR AND CHINA:

The Department of Global Witness and Ministry and 37 other Heads of Mission of other denominations each have committed to giving $30,000 to the Church World Service and ACT to aid in donating food, water supplies and shelter for China and Myanmar. Dr. George Flowers also gave $3,000 as a personal contribution to help in purchasing blankets, carts, and other commodities for both Regions.

4. PRESS RELEASE: BROOKINS HONORED WITH STREET RE-NAMING:

Los Angeles – On Sunday, June 8, 2008 the City of Los Angeles will honor Bishop H. H. Brookins by renaming the intersection of 49th Street and Gramercy Place as “Bishop Hamel Hartford Brookins Square.”

The son of a Yazoo, Mississippi sharecropper, Brookins was educated at Wilberforce University, Payne theological Seminary and the University of Kansas. After graduating from the University of Kansas, Brookins was thrust into the civil rights arena in 1954 in the wake of hostile reactions by Wichita citizens to the historical Supreme Court decision, Brown vs. the Board of Education.

From Kansas, Brookins was appointed pastor of the prestigious First AME Church of Los Angeles where he was a major force in quelling the Watts riots of 1965. Also, he relocated FAME to its present multi-million dollar sanctuary and added hundreds of names to its membership roll, including the late Mayor Tom Bradley. Using his political acumen and skill, he played a leading role in Bradley’s historic election

At the 1972 General Conference of the African Methodist Episcopal church, he was elected the 91st Bishop of the African Methodist Episcopal Church and assigned to the 17th Episcopal District encompassing five Central African countries. While in Africa, he joined the struggle against apartheid and as a consequence, Brookins was barred from Rhodesia in 1975 by the government.

Returning to the U.S., Brookins served and revitalized the 5th Episcopal District by purchasing and building new churches and sending ministers to organize new churches in Southern California. In 1977, he founded Brookins Community African Methodist Episcopal Church to meet the needs of the residents of South Los Angeles. Brookins organized the purchase of the building at 4831 Gramercy Place and “borrowed” nine members from First AME Church to get the congregation started. For two months, he serves as pastor before appointing the Rev. Dr. T. Larry Kirkland to lead the congregation.

Councilman Bernard Parks says of Bishop Brookins, “Your dedication to helping others will be spoken of for some time to come and the admiration for your accomplishments is felt by all of us within the community.”

The public is invited to this special occasion. The ceremony will take place at 3 p.m. For more information, call 323-299-9273

5. RESPONSE TO ATLANTA JOURNAL- CONSTITUTION ARTICLE, "MORE AME, OTHER MINISTERS ARE FEMALE":

Dr. Joseph Darby

The Democratic Presidential campaign battle has raised the specter of race to the top of the agenda in America’s court of public opinion. The news media have recounted allegations of Senator Hillary Clinton playing the "race card," voters terrified by the words of Dr. Jeremiah Wright and speculation that white, middle class voters won’t vote for Senator Barack Obama because of his race. That familiar debate, which highlights the need to address America’s most nagging issue, also led me to reflect upon what is still an unspoken but concrete issue in the African Methodist Episcopal Church.

Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor recently included an article from the Atlanta Journal Constitution in the online edition of The Christian Recorder noting the ordination of the Reverend Lola Russell, one of 31 female ordinands in a class of 35 ordinands. I celebrate my clergy sister’s accomplishment, and I offer it as a point of reflection for those who wonder why America still has contentious debates and strange attitudes on race. If we dare to be honest, then we’ll admit that similar contentious debates and strange attitudes still revolve around women in ministry in the African Methodist Episcopal Church. I realized that when I visited two events in the same week last year.

The first event was a Charleston, SC public meeting on a school board decision that divided our community along racial lines. The second was an Episcopal District meeting that included an Episcopal campaign speech by an aspirant who also happened to be a woman. My personal epiphany, after reflecting on what many of my white neighbors said at the public meeting and on what many of my male colleagues said while that Episcopal aspirant was speaking, was stunning because of the similarity in what was said. I realized that what a lot of white folk quietly say about black folk mirrors what a lot of male clergy quietly say about female clergy. Consider some of the things I’ve quietly heard said about Women in Ministry by their male colleagues, for the same things are often said when some unenlightened white folks talk about black folks:

"A few of them are alright, but too many of them are coming in and trying to rise too high."

"If we’re not careful, they'll take over."

"Not a lot of them are ‘qualified’ for top positions."

"We don't know what they really want."

"They like to stay to themselves and talk among themselves - I wonder what they're talking about - I wonder if they're talking about us?"

“Why does there have to be a special group for Women in Ministry? There's no group for Men in Ministry."

Those statements reflect sad realities of human nature that transcend lines of race and gender. Human nature makes all of us seek power, fight hard to hold onto power and view those who aspire to achieve - especially if they’re not - "like us" - as threats to our power. Those statements are especially sad for those of us in the African Methodist Episcopal Church, who claim to be a "liberating and reconciling people" being saved by God’s grace.

The reality is that when it comes to vocational achievement, the strategies embraced by women in ministry reflect the strategies traditionally embraced by African-Americans. Our sisters in ministry are more likely than many of their male counterparts to pursue the graduate education required for ordination and professional advancement and to fight hard to achieve professionally, knowing that the barriers to their doing so are formidable. As a long time member of Boards of Examiners, I can state that without reservation. They’ve also, sadly, learned the political "ropes" in the church as well as black folks in America and now have their own internal "turf" struggles. Some of my more frank sisters in ministry have told me so.

I offer the thoughts herein as we head toward another General Conference, where the work of the Lord will no doubt again be subordinate to the politics of the church. It’s my hope and prayer that when we approach issues of race, gender and church politics, we’ll remember the admonition of the Apostle Paul to the church in Rome: "Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world - let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think." (Romans 12:2a)

When we adopt that mindset, hold others to that grace driven standard and assertively correct those who quietly make prejudicial statements of any kind, then we can change the church and change America’s racial climate - see you in Saint Louis!

*Dr. Joseph Darby is the pastor of Morris Brown AME Church in Charleston, South Carolina

6. NINE PRIMARY SCHOOLS IN LORAIN, OHIO COLLECT SCHOOL SUPPLIES FOR PRIMARY SCHOOLS IN 18TH DISTRICT:

Last week in Maseru Lesotho, Supervisor Claytie Davis, Jr., returned from the Posong (Post Office) with the nine boxes of medical supplies, feminine hygiene items, and school supplies sent from the United States on April 21st. This “Christmas in May” gift was made possible because of the Southern Africa initiative of Bishop Earl McCloud and Episcopal Supervisor Pat Russell McCloud, Esq., for the 18th District.

The “Christmas in May” boxes included gifts from nine elementary schools in Lorain, Ohio where elementary children found joy in collecting and donating school supplies for children their ages in Africa whom they did not know nor whom they may never meet. Nonetheless, because of the efforts of Frank Jincto Elementary, Garfield Elementary, Irving Elementary, Lakeview Elementary, Larkmoor Elementary, Henlen Steiner Rice Elementary, Toni Morrison Elementary, Palm Elementary and Washington Elementary Schools, the children at the 35 primary schools in Lesotho and Swaziland have enough school supplies for this final semester of the 2008 school year and for the entire 2009 school year. We thank Dr. Cheryl L. H. Atkinson, Superintendent of Schools in Lorain City, for allowing the children to be a part of “joining hands across the seas” with our children here in the 18th through the efforts of Bishop and Supervisor McCloud. In addition to the these gifts, the 18th District also received $ 2,650.00 which Bishop Davis designated for the AME Schools fund in Lesotho for scholarships and for specified furnishings at the Hhohho Primary School in Swaziland.

Bishop Earl McCloud and a group of ten persons visited the 18th Episcopal District the first weekend of May and went specifically to the Selulasandla Vashti AME Village to meet our children orphaned by HIV/AIDS. While visiting the Village the group was given a tour by the Village Support Team’s Manager, Brother Malungisa Dlamini, who shared some of the challenges of transport with the group. Upon hearing how our some of our children have to walk 1 to 2 hours to get to school and how the mothers must get public cumbies to do grocery shopping and/or to take our children to and from the Baylor Clinic for weekly treatments, Bishop McCloud pledged a 15 passenger vehicle to the Selulasandla Vashti AME Village by the next school year which begins in January 2009.

To God be the glory for all He continues to do “for the sake of the children.”

Bishop Sarah Davis
Presiding Prelate, 18th Episcopal District

7. ALPHA KAPPA ALPHA SORORITY, INC., EDUCATION ADVANCEMENT FOUNDATION ASSISTS THE 18TH DISTRICT:

There are many challenges in managing the Selulasandla Vashti AME Village (three orphan homes, with a maximum capacity for 36 children) in Swaziland. In addition to providing support for medical, clothing, food, utility and staff salary needs, there is also the important need for educational support. “The education of our children is one of the most important necessities we can provide them and it must not be compromised,” states Bishop Sarah. The 18th District leadership works diligently to ensure all twenty-one children of the Village attend school. School is not free in Swaziland, thus tuition, school fees, uniforms and extra-curricular activity fees are expenses Bishop Sarah F. Davis and the Board of Directors of the Village struggle to pay on an annual basis. As the Village seeks to secure funding to accommodate fifteen more children, the need for educational funding is even more challenging.

Bishop Sarah is all smiles when she speaks of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. (her sorority) Educational Advancement Foundation’s (EAF)) gift of $12,000.00 to the 18th District earlier this year. The money is being used to fund the 2008 educational costs for the children orphaned by HIV/AIDS at the Village. The school year in Swaziland is divided into two terms (January to mid-April and May to mid- December). The first term’s tuition was paid in January and the District is now happy to report that all balances have been paid for the second term.

The 18th District has twenty-one children at its Selulasandla Vashti AME Village and funding has been provided solely by the 18th Episcopal District and gifts from individual donors. This gift allows “ALL TWENTY-ONE” children at Selulasandla Village to attend school the entire year with the necessary uniforms, school supplies, and activity fees. The Selulasandla Village children are enrolled in four different high schools and one primary school in Mbabane, Swaziland. The tuition for high school students is the highest at $650- $725 per year. The primary school tuition ranges from $125 - $225 per year.

The 18th District’s Episcopal leadership and the entire 18th District family thank God for EAF and Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. This much needed gift helps to advance their efforts to give the children what they so desperately need. Gratitude is extended to Episcopal Supervisor Pat Russell McCloud, Esq., who made this all possible; and also to the EAF’s Executive Director Deborah L. Dangerfield and the Centennial President of Alpha Kappa Alpha, Sorority, Inc., Barbara McKinzie, Esq., for the encouragement this gift brings to the Village and the 18th District.

Bishop Sarah Davis
Presiding Prelate, 18th Episcopal District

8. BISHOP JOHN HURST ADAMS PREACHES, TEACHES AND LEAVES GIFT OF OVER $ 30,000 FOR THE SELULASANDLA VASHTI AME VILLAGE DURING THE 18TH EPISCOPAL DISTRICT’S MID-YEAR CHRISTIAN EDUCATION EMPOWERMENT CONFERENCE:

The Eighteen Episcopal District of the AME Church under the leadership of the Bishop Sarah Frances Davis opened its annual Mid-Year Christian Education Empowerment Conference with the theme of “Managing Well: Our Time, Our Talents, and Our Resources”. As in the past three years, this year's Conference was filled with the very best preachers, teachers and workshop facilitators from around the globe. Each was effective in motivating the District attendees to manage well their time, talents and resources.

The 87th Bishop of the African Methodist Episcopal Church, the Right Reverend John Hurst Adams (retired), preached the opening worship and communion service, but not before he presented Bishop Sarah Davis with a check for $30,006.00 to construct and furnish an Administrative Block at the Selulasandla Vashti AME Village, Swaziland. The administrative block will allow the freeing up of the office space currently taken in one of the homes, so that living space can be made available for additional orphans and vulnerable children.

On Thursday, Bishop Adams addressed the clergy of the 18th District. He challenged the clergy with the topic: “Managing Well Your Call to Ministry.” When the session was over, the Clergy group wanted Bishop Adams to continue beyond the workshop time to answer questions and share with them. Words of gratitude given by Reverend I. Motselebane, (P.E.), conveyed the general consensus of appreciation and honor felt by everyone because of Bishop Adams’ presence and sharing in the 18th Episcopal District.

Dr. Dolly D. Adams (Retired Supervisor) was the speaker at the workshop session for all members of the Women Missionary Society addressing: “Managing Well the Women’s Missionary Society.” Dr. Adams shared the “Steps to Inclusion” and the ways and means of involving more women in the Women’s Missionary Society. She stressed the importance of women being involved in meeting the needs of the church and the community.

An additional highlight of the Conference was the WMS banquet held in the Castle Hotel (the first Conference wide banquet held by the WMS of the 18th District) where Dr. Dolly Adams was the keynote speaker. Dr. Adams challenged everyone present to make the little they have go a long way.

Each morning at 08h00, the Reverend Sharon Jaye Grant, currently a doctorial student at Southern Methodist University, Dallas, Texas, taught the 2008 CEEC Bible Study with focus on the Conference theme: “Managing Well: our Time, our Talent and our Resources.” The Reverend Grant used the parable of the Talents at Matthew 25: 19-30 for her Scriptural reference for the morning Bible Studies. She was profound, relative and clear as she taught the importance of “Relationship, Responsibility and Results” in the lives of believers. Reverend Grant also preached the closing worship service on Saturday and brought the District to its feet as she preached with power and relevance.

Medical doctor, Dr. Themba Ntiwane, conducted the plenary session on “Living a Healthy Life.” Dr. Ntiwane discussed the impact of diet, exercise, rest and stress on our health. He also stressed the impact of high blood pressure, cholesterol and diabetes on the lives of people of color.

In addition to the workshop sessions, the conference schedule provided time for component groups of the District to meet. Travel time to District meetings can take up to twenty hours for some of constituents, therefore on occasions when everyone comes together, all components are given time to share information.

Prior to the closing of the conference dignitaries and attendees had an opportunity to visit the Selulasandla Vashti AME Village. This was the first visit for Bishop Adams since his initial participation in the dedication of the three homes for children orphaned with HIV/AIDS in 2002. He was pleased to see that the Village had grown from the 4 orphans in 2002 to the current 21 orphans and vulnerable children. A big smile came across his face as he gazed upon the Florida house (one of three homes) which was so named to honor the members of the 11th District who provided the funding for construction of the Florida House, when he served as the Presiding Prelate of the 11th Episcopal District.

Prior to leaving the conference, Bishop Adams congratulated Bishop Davis for the exemplary work the she has done in the 18th District.

Rev. Paul Shimunza, Director of Music for the 18th District, presided over the annual Music Competitions on Friday night.
Botswana, Swaziland, and Lesotho were each represented by outstanding conference choirs. However, after the all the singing was completed, the Botswana Conference choir took home the first place trophy much to the dismay of the host Swaziland Conference choir and members.

Our Episcopal Director of Christian Education, Presiding Elder Albert B. Thawla, thanked the Bishop, facilitators and attendees for making this the best Christian Education Empowerment Conference to date. Bishop Sarah thanked him and his team for their untiring service and excellent planning again this year.

Bishop Sarah Davis
Presiding Prelate, 18th Episcopal District

9. BISHOP SARAH DEDICATES NEW CHURCH IN MOKHOTLONG, LESOTHO:

The Lesotho Annual Conference has a new Church building in the mountains of the Kingdom of Lesotho. Immediately following the dedication of the Tsepong Cecelia Williams Bryant Village Home in Mokhotlong, Lesotho, Bishop Sarah Frances Davis, the Allen Temple AME Church family and many from the Mokhotlong community moved approximately fifty yards south of the T’sepong Cecelia Williams Bryant Village Home for the ribbon cutting and dedication of Allen Temple AME Church.

The church, which is built in the traditional rondaval style of architect that is prevalent in the country of Lesotho, was completed approximately one year ago. Allen Temple A.M.E. Church was designed and constructed by Rev. Moses Thabane, members of Allen Temple A.M.E. Church and with assistance of students from Baldwin Wallace University who came and worked alongside the church members. The sojourners from Baldwin Wallace have been to Lesotho twice during this quadrennial and were under the leadership of the Reverend Mila Cooper, Baldwin Wallace Director and member of the 3rd E.D. Allen Temple AMEC was made with stones collected on the property and concrete made of sand from the river which runs along the edge of the property. The windows, doors and roofing materials were the only items that had to be purchased to build the church structure.

After the ribbon cutting ceremony, those gathered moved into the church for the worship services. Approximately 300 worshipers attempted to gather in the new sanctuary which was built to seat 200.

Prior to the sermon, the District Administrator, the Honorable Member of Parliament, and the Principal Chief of the Mokhotlong District (representing His Majesty King Letsie III) addressed those in attendance. Principle Chief Seeiso thanked the Reverend Moses Thabane and Bishop Davis for the work they are doing to meet the physical as well as the spiritual needs of the community.

At the appointed time, Presiding Elder Paulina Mokhosi of the North District, (former Presiding Elder of the Allen Temple congregation), brought the message for the Dedication service encouraging everyone to pursue the unusual and believe that it will come to pass.

A big feast was awaiting everyone following the service.

Bishop Sarah Davis
Presiding Prelate, 18th Episcopal District

10. T’SEPONG CECELIA WILLAIMS BRYANT VILLAGE HOME DEDICATED ON MAY 11, 2008, MOTHER’S DAY IN MOKHOTLONG, LESOTHO:

Mokhotlong, Lesotho made history and news on Sunday, May 11, 2008, Mother’s Day, with its dedication of the first African Methodist Episcopal Church orphanage in Lesotho and also, the first live-in orphanage in Mokhotlong, Lesotho. At 10:00 a.m. the Tsepong Cecelia Williams Bryant Village Home for children orphaned by HIV/AIDS was dedicated before many in the mountains of Mokhotlong.

The Honorable Member of Parliament Mr. Tsehlana Lehlonolo, Principal Chief Mathealira Seeiso of the Mokhotlong District, the District Land Administrator Mrs. Makhopso Tsita, and other members of the District and local government as well as Presiding Elder Ephaim T. Ntokoane, P. E. Paulina Mokhosi (former P. E. of the Mokhotlong District), pastors, preachers and members of the AME Church were all present to watch as Bishop Sarah Frances Davis dedicated the Tsepong Cecelia Williams Bryant Village Home. The newly constructed home is the first facility to be built in the Mokhotlong District designed to cater to the rising population of children orphaned and left homeless as a result of the pandemic HIV/AIDS epidemic that has ravaged an estimated 30% of the population.

The home, which was the vision of Pastor Moses Thabane of Allen Temple AME Church, Mokhotlong, will ultimately be home to 18 children orphaned by HIV/AIDS. The project was funded with the $ 106,000.00 (USD) gift given by Reverend Dr. Cecelia Williams Bryant and members and friends of the Fifth Episcopal District of the AME Church, in December 2006. This home is the first of several homes to be built in the Tsepong Village to meet the growing need for orphans in the mountains.

During the dedication service, Bishop Davis spoke of how Rev. Thabane first approached her in 2004 when she arrived in Lesotho, explaining the changing environment in the mountainous region of Lesotho. Children of parents infected with the HIV/AIDS virus were no longer being provided for and were being left to fend for themselves. In a region that is more than 3500 meters (approximately 2.25 miles) above sea level with temperatures near or below freezing more than six months of the year it is a hard place for even adults to live. Children here are left to raise younger siblings, which is not at all uncommon in many parts of Southern Africa. However, the mountains of Lesotho present a much more difficult/brutal environment. The Reverend Moses Thabane explained that neither the government nor any other organization in the area was doing anything to meet the needs of these young people and that he felt that the Church had to step up and do something. Thus, his vision was born.

Bishop Davis went on to stated how she had shared Pastor Thabane’s vision with friends and members of the African Methodist Episcopal Church and God touched their hearts and helped them to see the vision, too. Thus, the vision is now a reality “as we stand today to dedicate this home to the glory of God for the care and well being of our children”. Bishop Sarah invited the community to become active supporters of the children and the Village as this is a home not just for AME children orphaned by HIV/AIDS, but any child so impacted. The Bishop further encouraged cooperation of the District Land Administrator to allocate additional land to Allen Temple AME Church for the continuation of the project and “for the sake of the children.”

This was a great Mother’s Day and a great day for orphans and vulnerable children of Mokhotlong.

Bishop Sarah Davis
Presiding Prelate, 18th Episcopal District

11. EBENEZER AMEC CAME TO THE 18th DISTRICT’S SELULASANDLA VASHTI AME VILLAGE AND EMBRACED IT WITH SERVICE AND LOVE:

Thirty-nine members of Ebenezer AME Church, Fort Washington, Maryland, where the Reverend Dr. Grainger and the Reverend Dr. Jo Ann Browning are pastors, arrived via bus in Swaziland on Saturday, May 17th. The focus of the group was on servicing the needs of the Village and sharing lots of love to the orphan and vulnerable children who live in the Village. Leaders of the Ebenezer group were the Reverend Jonathan Newton, Young Adult Minister; and Sister Janelle Carter, coordinator of the sojourn.

The majority of sojourners were young adults between the ages of 25-39 with three children ages 9-10, and other more matured adults who were visiting South African and Swaziland. In Swaziland, the sojourners worshipped with the Labotsibeni AME Church family on Sunday morning where the Reverend Solomon Nxumalo is pastor and also Presiding Elder of the Central District. Sunday was the only relaxing day for the group for Monday and Tuesday the sojourners worked non-stop in the Village.

Early Monday morning, after a moment of prayer at the hotel, Bishop Sarah and Supervisor Claytie Davis, Jr., led the sojourners to the Selulasandla Vashti AME Village to begin the two day work mission. The Selulasandla Vashti AME Village is home for 21 children orphaned by HIV/AIDS. The children live in three homes of the Village built in 2002 under the Episcopal leadership of Bishop Vashti and Supervisor Stan McKenzie. One of the three homes is also used for administrative offices.

The Village Board member and Episcopal Lay President, Brother Malungisa Dlamini had the paint, paint brushes, pint pans, and other working tools waiting for the group when they arrived in the Village. Sister Janelle Carter and Reverend Newton had previously met and discussed with Bishop Sarah their desire to come the Village to give service in ways that would make a difference for the children.

The teams of workers immediately separated themselves into crews for painting, cleaning, gardening, and handing inventory of supplies needed. Furniture was moved from the Florida House which was the first occupied home of the Village and the home most in need of maintenance and painting. One crew took out beds, washed and disinfected beds and mattresses; cleaned windows, floors, washed down walls and ceilings; sanitized the bathrooms and then began to paint. Sister Linda Banks made a list of supplies that were not on site and then Supervisor Claytie Davis, Jr., took her shopping for the needed items. Another crew went to the back yard and began to pull weeds and prepare the ground for planting. Before the Ebenezer group arrived there were three garden beds where vegetables for the Village were planted. After two days of work by the garden crew, the Village now has seven beds where the ground has been overturned, the weeds have been pulled out and the plants have been planted. The grounds man was all smiles as he watched what was weed, grass and rocks be transformed into rows of planted seedlings for cabbage, lettuce, spinach beets, squash, and lemons.

Brother Andrew Edwards looked over at the clothes lines which were leaning and in less than thirty minutes after all the hammering, cutting and nailing, four clothes lines for hanging clothes were solidly in place.

As the group waited for the children to return from school, the inventory and gift crews were busy in the Vashti House. There they had made a display of the books, toys, and games for the children. Additionally, Sister Madeline Foreman prepared inventory lists of all the books and training material which had been brought to the Village. The toys, new clothes, socks, and blankets and medical supplies which were not distributed were put away and inventoried for future distributions to the children in the Village.

During the short lunch break Monday, Bishop Sarah thought it fitting with Ebenezer AME Church members present to present a gift of E 10,000.00 to Pastor J. Mkhonta and Presiding Elder A. B. Thwala for the drilling of bore holes and the digging wells at the Church and School sites in the Sheseliweni District. The gift was made possible by a check in the amount of $ 1,000.00 from Ebenezer AMEC, Fort Washington, Maryland and checks in the amount of $ 100.00 each from Seaport Mission Baptist Church, San Pablo, California, and All Generations Baptist Church, El Sobrante, California. The Reverend Dr. Cecelia Williams Bryant, Episcopal Supervisor of the 5th Episcopal District, has been sharing the word of the need for water at schools in the 18th District where there is none, and so as we received these gifts, we recognize the gifts as fruit of Reverend Cee’s sharing with others. Pastor Mkhonta and Presiding Elder Thwala were very pleased and thankful for the gift.

Once the children arrived home from school pictures were taken and group sessions with the girls and the mothers were organized. The girls enjoyed talking with the young women about USA and other subjects while the Mothers were also afforded an audience with other in the group concerning care of children and homemaking.

Supervisor Claytie took Sisters Karen S. Fenton-LeShore and Azalia Hunt-Speight back to Labotsibeni AME Church that evening to meet with young people who had asked them to return for a dialogue session. Both women are professional counselors and involved in mentoring programs and leadership training.

What a marvelous two days it was for the Selulasandla Vashti AME Village. Before leaving on Tuesday evening after finishing all that they had purposed to do, the Reverend J. Newton and Sister J. Carter presented the Village with two Mango trees which were ceremoniously planted by Bishop Sarah, Supervisor Claytie Davis, Jr., the Reverend Newton and Sister J. Carter. The two mothers, children of the Village and the grounds man continued to add dirt to the trees before the dedication service ended. The Reverend Newton then presented a gift of $ 975.00 to Bishop Sarah Davis for use at the Village. Bishop Sarah thanked the group for coming and for making a difference in the lives of everyone in the Village. She also asked that Pastors Grainger and Jo Ann Browning be told how grateful she and Supervisor and the 18th District are that the Ebenezer Church family had come and shared in this mission work in the Village. At the end of the evening, no one wanted to leave, the children did not want to let the sojourners go, and not a dry eye was to be seen.

To God be the glory for all the wonderful things He continues to do through His own for His own.

Bishop Sarah Davis
Presiding Prelate, 18th Episcopal District

12. THE NEW JERSEY ANNUAL CONFERENCE HOLDS 136TH SESSION MARCH 5-MARCH 9, 2008:

*Written by the Rev. Teresa Lynn Rushdan, N.J. Conference Reporter

The New Jersey A.M.E. Annual Conference 2008 was held at the beautiful Sheraton Hotel Atlantic City and was hosted by the N.J. Conference Atlantic City District, Presiding Elder Richard T. Druid,(Senior Presiding Elder, Presiding Elders Cabinet) and Pastors.

Pre-conference activities began on Monday when the New Jersey Conference Evangelists gathered together from across the Garden State to give God praise. The guest preacher was the Rev. Dr. Robert C. Wade, Presiding Elder of the Camden-Trenton District and President of the New Jersey Council of Churches.

The Women’s Missionary Society (WMS) Day led by the effervescent and capable First Lady and Supervisor of the First Episcopal District Mother Mary Ann Norris convened on Tuesday. Mother Norris whose leadership and love for God’s people continues to inspire all who have met her is a dynamic, effervescent and gifted woman is a pioneer who also initiated the “Adopt a Missionary Child” program under the WMS Family Life Committee in New York.

The Missionary Society was blessed as their day was highlighted by the dynamic preaching gifts of the Reverend Evelyn Booze, pastor of New Bethel A.M.E. Church in Vineland and President of the Atlantic City District Evangelists.

Wednesday morning the preachers and laity of the African Methodist Episcopal Church convened in Atlantic City New Jersey for the 136th Session of the New Jersey Annual Conference.

The conference was led in the singing of Blessed Assurance led by Rev. Marion Sykes Johnson after which Presiding Elder; the Rev. Dr. Robert C. Wade gave the opening prayer followed by the reading of the 133rd Psalm by the Rev. Lynda T. Rassmann.

The 136th Session of the New Jersey Annual Conference was brought to order by its Episcopal Leader the Rt. Rev. Dr. Richard Franklin Norris, who is the respected and blessed 116th elected and consecrated Bishop of the African Methodist Episcopal Church and Presiding Prelate of the First Episcopal District. Bishop Norris also serves as Chairman of the Commission of Global Witness and Ministry.

As the Reverend Linda Ellerbe read the roll call, hundreds of ministers answered the roll including the following ministers who recently transferred from other conferences. They are the Rev. Michael Sturdivant, the Rev. Dorrian H. Schenck, the Rev. Jerome Stembridge, the Rev. Ronald Bellamy, the Rev. John Justice, the Rev. Jahkimmo Smith, the Rev. Kenneth Mitchum, the Rev. Miyoshi Taylor Schenck and the Rev. Hilton Holt.

The following names were tenderly referred to the Committee on memoirs the Reverends Lucretia Leonard, Edward Verner, MD, Fred Tennie, Virginia Martin, Stanley Thomas, Irene Watkins, Leslie Williams and Mrs. Carol Fubler.

Presiding Elder Wade of the Camden-Trenton District read the recommendation for the Organization of the 136th Session of the New Jersey Annual Conference Accountant- the Rev. Herbert L. Eddy, Conference Secretary- the Rev. Linda Ellerbe, Assistant the Rev. Fred Parrish, Statistical Secretary- the Rev. Vernard Leak, and Assistant the Rev. Deborah Brooks.

Recommendations were made for the Trials of Appeals, Marshals, Ministerial Efficiency Committee; the Rev. John Ragin Public Relations Director for the Connectional Council, the N.J. Conference Reporter, Judiciary Committee, Finance committee, Board of Trustees, Self Help Board and the bounds of the Conference was set.

The Morning Worship Service commenced when Bishop Norris, his cabinet of Presiding Elders (the Rev. Dr. Robert Wade, the Rev. M. Lloyd Guyton, the Rev. Richard T. Druid and the Rev. Dr. James E. Deas Sr.) and clergy regally processed into the ballroom of the Atlantic City Sheraton Hotel with all the grandeur of a royal coronation jubilantly singing “The Church is One Foundation” transforming a ballroom into a sanctuary.

The choir from Mt. Zion New Brunswick sang with joy and the Atlantic City Liturgical Dancers gave God praise as enthusiastic onlookers raised their voices and burst into gales of shouts and handclapping as each Presiding Elders District entered in under its own banner while the music swelled with triumphant sound.

Bishop Norris introduced the preacher for the Opening Day Worship Service. Chosen to preach this years Annual Sermon, was the Reverend Dr. Joseph Hooper, pastor of the great Mt. Zion A.M.E. Church of New Brunswick. With fire and compassion Dr. Hooper stirred the hearts of many by preaching from 2 Chronicles Chapter 20 the subject “Maintain Your Position Help is On the Way”. The crowd enthusiastically applauded and cheered as he delivered the Word.

At the Wednesday afternoon business session, Bishop Norris gave opportunity for the Rev. Dr. Jeffrey Leath, the 51st pastor of Historic Mother Bethel to address the conference as a candidate for Episcopal service and asked for the prayers and support of the Conference as well as the Rev. Reginald Jackson, pastor of St. Matthew A.M.E. Church in Orange, who also addressed the conference as a candidate for Episcopal service, stating that the “best is yet to come.” Bishop Norris encouraged the candidates to keep climbing and stated “it is a wonderful view from the mountain top.”

Another distinguished guest of the Conference was the Reverend Dr. Leah Gaskin Fitchue, President of the Payne Theological Seminary which currently has 135 enrolled students. Dr. Fitchue is the first woman to serve as President of Payne Theological Seminary, a 160-year old institution sponsored by the African Methodist Episcopal Church. She is the first African American woman president of the 244 Association of Theological Schools (ATS) and the first woman to serve as president of any historically black theological seminary. Fitchue encouraged pastors, leaders, and members of the A.M.E. Church to support Payne which also offers an on line programs for the Masters of Divinity and the Doctorate of Ministry. Dr. Fitchue also shared that Payne will shortly have a ground breaking ceremony for a new library

The Governor of the State of New Jersey Governor Jon Corzine who is considered a friend of the New Jersey Conference arrived at the conference to show his support of the ongoing efforts and works of the N.J. A.M.E. Conference. He was presented by the Rev Reginald Jackson who is the pastor of St. Matthew A.M.E. Church Orange, New Jersey and is a candidate for the Bishopric.

Governor Jon Corzine delivered a message of accountability, and right spending. He stated that he was privileged to be here again. He solicited our prayers, but beyond prayers he asked for our support. The governor stated “We have to deal with how we pay for the things we do”.

Time was allotted for questions to be asked from the floor. Gov. Corzine tactfully and willfully addressed issues such as tax increases, public safety, hospital closings, urban enterprise zones, the housing foreclosure crisis, and urban tax credits against corporate taxes. Bishop thanked the Governor for coming and pledged our support for those things that were right for the people of the Conference.

Wednesday evening worship was unforgettable as Bishop Wilfred J. Messiah, Presiding Prelate of the 20th District and President of the African Methodist Episcopal Church Council of Bishops preached for the Holy Communion Service an anointed and thought provoking sermon entitled “The Upper Room Experience: A Lesson in Christian Discipleship” His text was Mark 14:15 .

Mother Mary Ann Norris presented Mother Messiah with a generous check from the Women’s Missionary Society to encourage her many projects including Girl Child which deals with women’s issues such as rape, HIV/AIDS, child abuse, pregnancy and education for pregnant girls in Africa. After the presentation Bishop Messiah’s wife Mother Carol Isabella Messiah WMS Episcopal Supervisor shared words of wisdom to inspire to the hearts of the New Jersey Conference.

The Thursday Noonday Worship preacher was the Rev. Deborah K. Blanks, former United States Navy Chaplain and current Associate Dean of Religious Life and the Chapel at Princeton Theological Seminary. Rev. Blanks has a B.A. from Rutgers University, Douglass College, a Master of Theology degree from Princeton Theological Seminary, and a Master of Divinity degree from the Interdenominational Theological Center in Atlanta, Georgia. Rev. Blank’s preparation and preaching skill was heard as she preached “Doing God’s Business” using Haggai 2:1-9.

The Annual Lay Service held Thursday evening was a triumphant success as the New Jersey Conference carried the Connectional Theme “Refocusing Our Ministry to Serve the Present Age” Galatians 6:6-10. Presiding over the worship service was Sister Carol Lida, the New Brunswick District Lay President.

Sister Kemry McFarland (St. James, Ocean City) introduced Mother Mary Ann Norris who brought greetings with her effervescent smile. Bishop Norris was introduced by Brother Wilson Ross, President the New Jersey Conference Lay Organization.

Preaching for the Lay Service was the Rev. Lynda T. Rassmann, pastor of Grant A.M.E. Church, Chesilhurst. Rev. Rassmann who is the Director of the New Jersey Human Development Corporation recently became the first female to be elected President of the N.J. Conference A.M.E. Ministers Fellowship. Rev. Rassmann preached from her heart using Genesis 28:8 as her foundation, her subject being “When Your on Hold, God is about to Pull you Out”.

The Lay Service concluded with remarks being given by Sis. F. Jane Harris, President First Episcopal District Lay Organization, Bro. Wilson Ross, Presiding Elder Richard T. Druid and Bishop Richard Franklin Norris.

8:53 a.m. on Friday Morning: Sister Kitty Combs, the Rev. Vanessa Perry, Evangelist Pamela Underhill and Sister Shonda Short began the period of devotions. Bishop Norris called for the Camden -Trenton reports lead by Presiding Elder Dr. Robert Wade to be read. After the reading of the reports the Camden-Trenton clergy, ministers and laity burst into singing “Victory is Mine” led by the Rev. J. Stanley Justice, pastor of Mt. Zion A.M.E. Church, Trenton and President of the New Jersey Human Development Corporation.

The Rev. J. Stanley Justice asked for PE Wade to be returned the members sang Victory is Mine and Rev. Justice also asked the conference to support Rev. Mark Tyler who is a candidate for Historiographer for the Connection.

Bishop Norris reached into the pool of preachers from the Pennsylvania Conference for Fridays Noonday Hour of Power. Selected to bring the Word was Rev. Trevor Woolridge, pastor of Bethel A.M.E. Church Lansdowne, Penna. who preached with fire the text Jude Chapter 1 24-25 “Now unto him that is able to keep you from falling, and to present you faultless before the presence of his glory with exceeding joy. To the only wise God our Savior, be glory and majesty, dominion and power, both now and ever. Amen.”

Later Friday afternoon, the New Jersey Conference Board of Examiners (under the direction of the Rev. Reginald T. Jackson who serves as Chairman and the Rev. Kim Anderson, who serves as Dean of the Ministerial Training Institute) met to report to Bishop Norris and the New Jersey Annual Conference their recommendations regarding 82 students who are preparing for ministry in the African Methodist Episcopal Church.

The New Jersey Conference YPD demonstrated their gifts and talents in the Annual Youth of the Year Contest that features young people from each Presiding Elders District. This year winner is Brother Trevor Walker of the Camden-Trenton District.

The brilliance, beauty and grandeur of St. James A.M.E. Church, Atlantic City was an exquisite back drop for Saturdays Ordination Service where the Rev. Dr. James Coaxum III serves as the pastor.

The Choir sang several selections with great joy including “Yes God is Real” and “Faithful is our God”. Bishop Norris presented the preacher of the hour Bishop Gregory G.M. Ingram Presiding Prelate of the 10th Episcopal District drew his text from the book of Jonah Chapter 1:8 and 1Cor 9:16 and said “Woe if you don’t preach it and tell it”

With power Bishop Ingram preached a strong, supportive, relevant, and pertinent word. Bishop Ingram said “you have to be clear about your calling, you can’t preach what you don’t know, woe unto you if you preach, woe unto you if don’t take your calling seriously. You’ve got to give preaching all you’ve got.”

Other worship participants included, the Rev. Leonard Santucci, the Rev. Dr. Louis Attles, the Rev. Reginald McCrae, the Rev. Dietra Bell, the Rev. Alfonso Sherald, the Rev. Kim Anderson, the Rev. Mashod Evans, the Rev. Larry Dixon, the Rev. Michael Keene, the Rev. Dr. William Cody, the Rev. Joseph Hooper, the Rev. Deborah Blanks, the Rev. Dr. Kenneth Saunders, the Rev. Dr. William Watley, the Rev. Amir Ballard, the Rev. Jaspers Daniels, the Rev. Vernard Leak, the Rev. Danielle Hunter, the Rev. Jonathan Wade, the Rev. Jeffrey Johnson, the Rev. Dr. Stanley Hearst, the Rev. J. Coaxum III, and the Rev. Mark Tyler.

Bishop Norris (assisted by Bishop Ingram) ordained one Itinerant Elder, Charles Ramsey, (Mt. Zion, Trenton), two Itinerant Deacons Tresa Carter (Macedonia, Camden) and George Britt (St. Mark, East Orange), one local elder, Antoinette Farmer (Mt. Zion, New Brunswick) three Local Deacons, Blackmon Jackson (Mt. Zion, New Brunswick, Norman R. Nelson (Bethel, Freehold) and Melvin Johnson, (Mt. Zion Fenwick). In addition two women were consecrated as Deaconesses.

Something new this year was the YPD Olympics which were held at Pleasantville High School, Pleasantville, New Jersey. YPDers from across the state of New Jersey competed in various athletic competitions and performed great physical feats. Gales of laughter, hand clapping, whistles and cheers encouraged the many participants to victory. The first place for the Olympics went to the Newark District, second place to Atlantic City, third place to Camden-Trenton and fourth place went to the New Brunswick District.

Closing Day activities began with the Church School’s Working Theme: “Church School and Evangelism: A Marriage Made in Heaven”. The lesson for the day was “God Makes a Covenant with David” 1 Chronicles 17:1-15. The New Jersey Conference Church School Superintendent is the very effective and dedicated Brother Samuel A. Jones Jr., Sister Ellen Miller serves as the Director of the Board of Christian Education and the New Jersey Conference Chairman is the very capable the Rev. Dennis Hughes who is also the pastor of St. John A.M.E. Church, Jersey City.

The New Jersey Conference Church School Superintendents are Mrs. Beverly Ballard, Newark District, Mr. and Mrs. Walter and Catina Jackson, New Brunswick District, Ms. Henrietta Hill, Camden-Trenton District, and Ms. Donna Shorter, of the Atlantic City District.

The Closing and Commissioning Service was well attended and overflowed with people eager to see their pastor return and what pastor they would receive. Thunderously, the awaiting crowd sang “God of our Fathers” and praised the Lord seemingly with one unified voice.

On the final day of conference the following person’s requests for superannuation were granted. They were the Rev. Bernice Prescott, the Rev. Dr. William Cody, the Rev. Harry Ford Jr. and the Rev. Eleanor Melton.

Bringing the closing message was the Rev. William D. Watley, PhD, is pastor of the historic St. James A.M.E. Church, Newark. Dr. Watley (former Chief Officer and Secretary of the New Jersey Commerce & Economic Growth Commission for the State of New Jersey), author of more than sixteen books, is a seasoned and gifted preacher who passionately brought the crowd to its feet as he preached “When it Won’t Go Away” from Ruth 1:19-22.

Finally the chords of “A Charge to Keep I Have” rang out followed by “Go Preach My Gospel” and Bishop Norris began the reading of appointments.

After the of Hymn 219 “Go Forth, Ye Heralds” the Doxology was sung, the Benediction was given and the 136th Session of the New Jersey A.M.E. Annual Conference came to a rousing successful close.

*Written by the Rev. Teresa Lynn Rushdan, N.J. Conference Reporter
Photos for the print edition taken by the Rev. Teresa Lynn Rushdan and the Rev. Maria Domini

13. WARD AME CHURCH PHILADELPHIA MEMBER PENN STATE UNIVERSITY HONORS’ GRADUATE:

The family of Marian Mauti Dossou beamed with joy and pride as she was inducted into the Schreyer Honors College of Penn State University on May 16, 2008. Medals were presented to each of the graduates who completed the required number of credits at the University and were among the top 12% of the graduating class in their college.

To graduate with honors, Schreyer Scholars were required to maintain a record of good academic standing, complete 32 credits of honors courses, and submit a thesis.

Marian graduated with “Highest Distinction:” a classification assigned to those who were in the top 2% of the Honors’ graduates.

On May 18, 2008, Marian proudly marched with the Penn State Spring class of 2008 to receive her Baccalaureate Degree in Management and Organization. She has been accepted into the Teach for America Program, a program that will help other young people attain their goals. Marian, the daughter of Justin Dossou and Janet Dossou Thompson and the grand daughter of James and Mary Miles of West Philadelphia, is an active member of Ward African Methodist Episcopal Church. Her pastor is Rev. Terrence C. Hensford

Submitted by Sister Mary E. Miles, the grandmother of Ms Dossou

14. SUPPORT AND VOLUNTEERS NEEDED AT THE GENERAL CONFERENCE TO HELP AME SCOUTING:

Currently we are in the process of developing strategy to facilitate a booth for the AME General Conference. We need the support AME scout leaders and youth to be on site to support its staffing for the General Conference. If you can volunteer your time it will be greatly appreciated.

We also need items in which we can give away to those who visit the booth. We also need to know if the Girl Scouts are going to have a presence at the Conference.

BSA is making an effort to pay for the booth, whatever Girl Scout material we can show will enhance our presence. We are have been asked by BSA to have 3000 AME Scouts at the 2010 BSA Jamboree.

We commend Dr. Daryl Ingram and the CED for leading the effort to achieve these numbers. We have a lot of work to do with very little time to prepare.

Thru prayer and working together we will get this done.

Brother Anthony Franklin Sr.

15. FOR AFRICAN METHODISTS, THIS IS A TIME FOR CHANGE AND EXCITEMENT:

As we approach the General Conference, our minds are on changes in our denomination as well as Connectional accountability. I have asked, on several occasions, that Laypersons share with our inactive Lay brothers and sisters an explanation of the local church assessments. All of the figures are located in the back of The Discipline.

How many of us take the time to read the budget information spelled out with amounts attached. When our members understand what they are paying for and can see the benefits, such as owning property collectively, inclusive of schools and university; it creates pride and ownership.

We cannot keep increasing the budget to pay for activities and services that we have not stopped to evaluate for necessity nor the need to change.

Have we taken a look at how we operate these organizations and departments, as well as, giving people decent salaries for their dedicated services to the Connectional Church?

In order to make major changes, we will have to change how we are spending and do a serious overhaul of our financial planning. In Dr. Richard A. Lewis, we have a very good business-minded CFO, but it is not his responsibility to take these steps, but the General Board. And, as members, we must give the General Board the tools necessary to perform their services as the financial overseers of the Church.

My prayer is that we come together as a team, both Clergy and Lay and put the denomination ahead of personal needs and gains. I am prayerful that we will be honest with ourselves and each other as we plan for the future of the African Methodist Episcopal Church.

Sister Gloria T. Byrd
President
Sixth District Lay Organization

16. AFRICAN METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH GENERAL CONFERENCE PRAYER WALK, SUNDAY, JULY 6, 2008:

*The Rev. Dorisalene Y. Hughes

On July 4 – 11, 2008 the African Methodist Episcopal Church’s 2008 General Conference will be held in St. Louis, Missouri, hosted by the Fifth Episcopal District under the leadership of The Rt. Reverend John Richard Bryant, Presiding Prelate. During this 48th Quadrennial Session, a new component has been added -- an ecumenical, non-denominational Prayer Walk.

All denominations are invited to join us in a Prayer Walk in the city of St. Louis on Sunday, July 6, 2008 from 3:00 pm until 5:00 p.m. Our goal is to have 50,000 people participating. We request that you share this information with your Ministerial Staff, prayer warriors, PRAYER intercessors, Evangelists, and your entire congregation. We are looking for several willing and faithful servants to help us with this Prayer Walk in establishing prayer stations. We plan to visit area hospitals to offer prayer, and we plan to visit the homeless with prayers and sandwiches.

We believe we can accomplish so much together, so we ask you to please complete the enclosed form and return it to me.

*The Rev. Dorisalene Y. Hughes, serving as the Fifth District Co-Director of Prayer and Coordinator of Ad Hoc Prayer Committee for General Conference

17. NEWS FROM THE NINTH EPISCOPAL DISTRICT:

*Brother Kelvin J. Anthony

On Sunday May 25th, 2008, a celebration of dynamic leadership took place at Saint John A.M.E. Church, Birmingham where the Reverend James A. Rumph is the pastor. This celebration was honor of Bishop and Mrs. T. Larry Kirkland. The celebration started at 5:30 P.M. and it was the longest ceremony that I have ever attended in my life, but it was worth it. Mrs. Patricia R. Smith and Mr. Lamar Higgins were the mistress and master of ceremonies for the celebration. Mr. Lamar Higgins also serves as the 9th Episcopal District Director of the Sons of Allen

The Ninth Episcopal District Choir under the maestro leadership of the Reverend Dr. Farrell J. Duncombe sung Total Praise and four of Bishop Kirkland’s favorite songs. Then Sister D'Juana Duncombe, Wilson daughter of Reverend Farrell Duncombe sung a beautiful medley.

After the solo, the W.M.S. President and the Y.P.D. Director gave some great reflections for Mother Kirkland. Reflections and accolades for Bishop Kirkland were given by government and ecclesiastical leaders. Tributes were given by Councilman William Bell, District 5, City of Birmingham, Governor Bob Riley (Who sent his regards), and Barack Obama(Who sent his regards).

The event was blessed with the presence of Bishop Lawrence L. Reddick III., the Presiding Prelate of the 5th Episcopal District of the Christian Methodist Episcopal Church, Dr. Johnny Barbour, Jr., and the candidates for Bishop 2008, the Rev. James Arnell, the Rev. George Tyler, the Rev. John White, Sr., and the Rev. Stafford Wicker).

Many people gave great tributes, reflections, and special presentations to Bishop and Mrs. Kirkland. During the remarks, the Bishop and Mother Kirkland gave thanks to the 9th Episcopal District for the acts of kindness and great acts of service.

After the Benediction, Bishop Kirkland sang Jesus, Paid it All!

I want to say that I thank God for Bishop and Mother Kirkland and their family. I pray that God will continue to bless them and that God will continue to let His anointing flow on Bishop Kirkland's ministry.

*Brother Kelvin J. Anthony is sixteen years old and is the associate minister at Ward Chapel A.M.E. Church, Bessemer, Alabama

18. YOUTH CONSERVATION CORPS PROGRAM OFFERED AT FORT SUMTER NATIONAL MONUMENT AND CHARLES PINCKNEY NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE:

Fort Sumter National Monument is accepting applications for a summer employment program for young men and women, ages 15 through 18. The National Park Service will provide gainful employment for males and females of all social, economic, ethnic, and racial backgrounds through a Youth Conservation Corps Program (YCC) designed to accomplish needed conservation work on public lands.

YCC requirements are that enrollees must be permanent residents of the US and must furnish a Social Security Number. Applicants will be responsible for proper work clothing and transportation to the work sites at Fort Sumter National Monument on Sullivan’s Island and Charles Pinckney National Historic Site in Mount Pleasant.

Participants will engage in such projects as preservation work, lawn and ground improvements, painting, visitor contacts, and other worthwhile projects. The work is planned to provide the participants with a better understanding of their environment and the management of public owned resources.

YCC consists of a six-week program offering a minimum wage rate of $5.85-$6.55 per hour. There are three positions to be filled. The program will run for eight weeks, from June 22 through August 2, 2007.

For more information, contact your school’s guidance counselor or Fort Sumter National Monument at (843) 883-3123.

All applications must be received on or before June 13, 2008.

Submitted by Ms Pamela Greene

19. CLERGY FAMILY CONGRATULATORY NOTICES:

- The Rev. Carolyn Habersham, Pastor Emmanuel AME Church, Los Angeles, California and daughter of retired Presiding Elder Rev. Ezekiel Habersham, graduated from Claremont School of Theology on Saturday May 17, 2008 with a Master of Arts in Theological Studies.

Congratulatory messages can be sent to:

The Rev. Carolyn Habersham, Pastor
Emmanuel AME Church
5200 Compton Avenue
Los Angeles, CA 90011

Phone: 323-232-6300

Or email to: REVHABERSHAM@aol.com

- The Rev. Ella M. McDonald, from the 10th Episcopal District, received three awards and one certification along with her Master of Divinity Degree Diploma at the 2008 Perkins School of Theology Graduation Ceremony held on May 17, 2008.

Awards Received:

The Division I Biblical Study's Award: This was awarded to (3) three graduating seniors who exhibit excellence in Biblical studies of the Old and New Testament of the Bible.

The Robert Weatherford Prize for internship preaching: This prize was given to (3) three theology students for excellence in preaching during internship. The intern Faculty of the Perkins School of Theology and a representative from the preaching faculty chooses the recipients.

The Karis Stahl Fadely Scholarship Award: This award was presented to (2) two students who exhibit the qualities that were exemplified by Karis Fadely, commitment to Jesus Christ and the mission of the church, responsibility and good management of time.

Certification:

Graduate Certificate in Pastoral Care: This is the first graduation class to receive this certification. It was given to certify five theology students who passed the oral examination and completed 15 hours of Pastoral Care classes at Perkins School of Theology.

Congratulatory messages can be sent to: emmcd7@verizon.net

20. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

We regret to announce the passing of Sister Willie Jo Johnson on Thursday, May 22, 2008. She was the wife of the Rev. Howard Johnson, a long-time pastor in the Tenth Episcopal District in the North, Northwest and Northeast Texas Conferences.

Sister Willie Jo Johnson was also the aunt of Debra R. Taylor, Office Manager of the Eleventh Episcopal District AME Church.

The funeral information for Sister Willie Jo Johnson is as follows:

Wake:

Wednesday, May 28, 2008
6 P.M - 7 P.M.
Laurel Land Funeral Home & Memorial Park
6000 S R L Thornton Freeway
Dallas, TX 75232

Phone: (214) 371-1336
Fax: (972) 761-8966

Homegoing Celebration:
Thursday, May 29, 2008
11 A.M.
Smith Chapel AME Church
The Rev. Darrell Caldwell, Pastor
2406 Childs Street
Dallas, Texas 75203

Phone: (214) 948-9482

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to:

Laurel Land Funeral Home
6000 South R. L. Thornton Freeway
Dallas, Texas 75232
Phone: (214) 371-1336

Condolences may be sent to:

The Rev. Howard Johnson
426 Glen Oaks
Dallas, Texas 75232
Phone: (214) 374-6610

Or to:

Ms. Debra R. Taylor
C/o Eleventh Episcopal District
101 E Union St. Ste. 301
Jacksonville, FL 32202
Email: 11thdistoffice@bellsouth.net

21. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

The 8th Episcopal District announces the homegoing of Mrs. Lillie Mae Self, the daughter of the late Rev. David J. Campbell, Sr. and the sister of the Rev. David James Campbell Jr., Presiding Elder of the Shreveport District-North Louisiana Conference and the Rev. Thelma Thomas pastor of Fluker Chapel A.M.E. Church, Greater New Orleans-Greensburg District-Louisiana Conference.

The funeral service will be held on Monday June 2nd at 12pm at:

Gloryland Baptist Church
2575 Michelli Dr.
Baton Rouge LA 70805

Condolences may be sent to:

Presiding Elder David J Campbell, Jr.
116 King Oaks Dr.
Monroe LA. 71202
Phone: 318-324-1263

22. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

We regret to inform you of the passing of Mrs. Margaret Ward, the wife of the Late Rev. James Ward who last pastored the Mitchell Chapel A. M. E. Church, Mansfield, Ohio.

Services for Mrs. Margaret Ward will be held on Saturday, May 25, 2008, 10 a.m.

Mitchell Chapel A. M. E. Church
189 Adams Street
Mansfield, Ohio 44907
419-524-9932

The Rev. Rodrecus Johnson, Pastor
The Rt. Rev. Robert Webster, Presiding Bishop

Cards and condolences may be sent in care of the church.

Please keep the family in your prayers.

Respectfully Submitted,

The Rev. Dr. Taylor T. Thompson
Third District Brotherhood

23. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

LaShawne Justice, daughter of the Rev. Cecelia Justice (5th Episcopal District) went home to be with the Lord on Thursday, May 22, 2008.

Service scheduled:
Wednesday, May 28, 2008
12:00 Noon

Bryant Temple AME Church
2525 West Vernon Avenue
Los Angeles, CA 90008

Phone: 323-293-6201
Rev. Clyde Oden, Jr., Pastor
The Rt. Rev. John R. Bryant, Presiding Bishop

Please remember the bereaved families in your prayers.

24. 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

25. CONDOLENCES TO THE BEREAVED FROM THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER:

The Chair of the Commission on Publications, the Right Reverend Gregory G. M. Ingram; 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 (5/22/08)

Bishop Gregory G. M. Ingram - Chair, Commission on Publications
The Reverend Dr. Johnny Barbour, Jr., Publisher
The Reverend Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III, Editor, The Christian Recorder

Editor’s Note: Editor Calvin and the Rev. Charlotte Sydnor will be attending their oldest grandson, Calvin V’s graduation from Hampton Roads Academy in Hampton, Virginia; and Editor Sydnor will be preaching at Mother Bethel AME Church in Philadelphia for the morning worship service.

1. RETIRED BISHOP H. HARTFORD BROOKINS HONORED WITH STREET RE-NAMING:

Los Angeles, CA—On Sunday, June 8, 2008 the City of Los Angeles will honor Bishop H. H. Brookins by re-naming the intersection of 49th Street and Gramercy Place as “Bishop Hamel Hartford Brookins Square.”

The son of a Yazoo, MS sharecropper, Brookins was educated at Wilberforce University, Payne Theological Seminary and the University of Kansas. After graduating from the University of Kansas, Brookins was thrust into the civil rights arena in 1954 in the wake of hostile reactions by Wichita citizens to the historical Supreme Court decision, Brown vs. the Board of Education.

From Kansas, Brookins was appointed pastor of the prestigious First AME Church of Los Angeles where he was a major force in quelling the Watts riots of 1965. Also, he relocated FAME to its present multi-million dollar sanctuary and added hundreds of names to its membership roll, including the late Mayor Tom Bradley. Using his political acumen and skill, he played a leading role in Bradley’s historic election.

At the 1972 General Conference of the African Methodist Episcopal Church, he was elected the 91st Bishop of the African Methodist Episcopal Church and assigned to the 17th Episcopal District encompassing five Central African countries. While in Africa, he joined the struggle against apartheid and as a consequence, Brookins was barred from Rhodesia in 1975 by the government.

Returning to the U.S., Brookins served and revitalized the 5th Episcopal District by purchasing and building new churches and sending ministers to organize new churches in Southern California. In 1977, he founded Brookins Community African Methodist Episcopal Church to meet the needs of the residents of South Los Angeles. Brookins organized the purchase of the building at 4831 Gramercy Place and “borrowed” nine members from First A.M.E. Church to get the congregation started. For two months, he served as pastor before appointing the Rev. Dr. T. Larry Kirkland to lead the congregation.

Councilman Bernard Parks says of Bishop Brookins, “Your dedication to helping others will be spoken of for some time to come and the admiration for your accomplishments is felt by all of us within the community.”

The public is invited to this special occasion. The ceremony will take place at 3:00 p.m. For information, call 323-299-9273.

2. DR. FLOYD FLAKE’S TIPS FOR GROWING A LOCAL CHURCH:

The Rev. Dr. Floyd Flake has been the successful pastor of Greater Allen, AME in NYC for 33 years. Recently he led a discussion at the Rev. Rick Warren's Saddleback Church:

- The 25,000 member church has grown because he views church as community rather than buildings, walls, limitations.

- The church builds housing of all sorts and is the primary community developer through church.

- Considers the community to be HIS responsibility as the pastor.

- He Breaks the church down into groupings that build into their strength the opportunity to empower people, understanding what role that they will have as they try to grow into the future – transformation as an ongoing process.

3. PRAYER MINISTRY AT THE 48TH QUADRENNIAL SESSION OF THE GENERAL CONFERENCE:

The Ad Hoc Prayer Committee (Bishop Sarah F. Davis, Chair; Rev. Dorisalene Hughes (5 E.D) and Dr. T. Carlton Richardson (2 E.D.), Coordinators) share the following information about the planned Prayer Ministry activities at the General Conference.

2-Love Feast Prayer Services: 6:00 a.m. - 8:00 a.m. (Fri., July 4; Fri., July 11)

5-Early Morning Prayer Calls: 6:00 a.m. - 8:00 a.m. (Sat., July 5; Mon.-Thu., July 7-10) (Theme: PRAY ON! "It is Well with My Soul!")

Interdenominational Prayer Walk: 3:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. (Sun., July 6th)

Watch Night Prayer Service: -- 10:00 PM - 12:00 AM (Sun., July 6th)

Prayer Room/Center: (Daily 8:00 a.m. to end of Last Session of General Conference)--Prayer care, counseling, exhorting, reading materials, meditation, and relaxation.

Prayer Booths: Vendors' Section: (Daily 9:00 a.m. to end of Last Session of General Conference) -- Prayer care, counseling, exhorting, and reading materials.

Prayer Mobile: Excursions by bus into St. Louis neighborhoods for prayer care, counseling, exhorting, and evangelism (Dates/Times, To Be Announced).


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4. THE 48TH QUADRENNIAL SESSION OF THE GENERAL CONFERENCE OF THE AFRICAN METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH AGENDA:

“Equipping the Saints, Empowering the People, Transforming the World”

Location: The America’s Center, St. Louis, Missouri
Date: July 4-11, 2008

Bishop Vashti Murphy McKenzie, Chair, General Conference Commission
Bishop McKinley Young, Chair, Program Committee
Bishop John Richard Bryant, Host Bishop

Bishop Philip Robert Cousin Sr., Senior Bishop
Bishop Paul Jones Mulenga Kawimbe, President, Council of Bishops

THE OFFICIAL PROGRAM

Pre-General Conference Activities

Friday, June 27, 2008
9:00 A.M. - Revisions Committee

Wednesday, July 2, 2008
9:00 A.M. - Credentials Committee
10:00 A.M. - Rules Committee

Thursday, July 3, 2008 -
10:00 A.M. - General Conference Commission
3:00 - 5:00 P.M.
Health Commission
Orientation for new and returning delegates

7:30 P.M / Fifth Episcopal District Banquet
Thursday, July 3, 2008 (Doors Open at 6:00 p.m.)
Bishop John Richard Bryant, Host Bishop


GENERAL CONFERENCE AGENDA

Friday, July 4, 2008 / First Day

10:00 a.m. / Opening Worship Service

Bishop Philip Robert Cousin Sr., Worship Leader

Bishop John Richard Bryant, Preacher

1:00 p.m. / Lunch

3:00 p.m. / Business Session I

Bishop Philip Robert Cousin Sr., Presiding

Devotional Period
Roll Call
Credentials Committee Report
Rules Committee Report
General Conference Commission
Election of General Secretary and Staff
Election of the Episcopal Committee Chairperson

Announcements
Adjournment*

6:00 p.m. / Dinner

*No Evening Business Session, however, committees may meet as designated in assigned venues.

Saturday, July 5, 2008 / Second Day

6:00 - 7:00 a.m. / A Call to Early Morning Prayer
7:00 – 8:00 a.m. / Episcopal District Delegation and Committee Meetings
8:00 – 9:00 a.m. / Bible Study
Bishop James Levert Davis, Presiding
Dr. James C. Wade, Leader
Executive Director, Department of Church Growth & Development

9:00 – 12:00 / Business Session II

Bishop John Richard Bryant, Presiding
Call to Order
Episcopal Address
Reports:
Treasurer
General Secretary
Department of Annuity Investments and Insurance

Announcements
Adjournment

12:00 Noon / Lunch

2:00 – 5:30 p.m. / Business Session III

Bishop Richard Allen Chappelle Sr., Presiding
Call to Order
Devotional Period
Minutes
Reports:
Episcopal Committee’s (First)
Revisions Committee’s (First)
Sunday School Union
Department of Christian Education

Announcements
Adjournment

6:00 p.m. / Dinner

8:00 – 9:45 p.m. / Business Session IV

Bishop McKinley Young, Presiding
Call to Order
Devotional Period
Reports:
Revision Committee’s (Second Report)
Election Commission
SADA
Department of Global Witness and Ministry
Global Development Council (GDC)
Department of Research and Scholarship
The Christian Recorder
Department of Church Growth and Development

Announcements
Adjournment

9:45 – 10:00 p.m. / Evening Prayers

Sunday, July 6, 2008 / Third Day

8:00 a.m. / Church School
Dr. Daryl B. Ingram, Executive Director, Department of Christian Education

10:00 a.m. / Worship Service and Holy Communion

Bishop Robert Vaughn Webster, Presiding
Bishop Zedekiah LaZett Grady, Preaching

3:00 p.m. / The Christian Debutante-Masters Dedication (Hotel), Department of Christian Education
Bishop Robert Vaughn Webster, Commission Chair
Dr. Daryl B. Ingram, Executive Director
Dr. Loretta Hill, CDMC Connectional Commissioner

6:00 – 9:00 p.m. / Special Event Featuring: “Sunday Best”

10:00 p.m. / Youth and Young Adult Explosion (Hotel), Department of Christian Education
Mr. Derek Anderson, RAYC Connectional President

Monday, July 7, 2008 / Fourth Day

6:00 – 7:00 a.m. / A Call to Early Morning Prayer
7:00 - 8:00 a.m. / Episcopal District Delegations and Committees
8:00 - 9:00 a.m. / Proclamation
Bishop David Rwhynica Daniels Jr., Presiding
Department of Church Growth and Development

9:00 – 12:00 / Business Session V
Bishop Cornal Garnett Henning Sr., Presiding
Call to Order
Minutes
Reports:
Lay Organization
Women’s Missionary Society
Revision Committee’s (Third)
Debutante Master’s Commission
Educational Institutions
Theological Institutions
Episcopal District Projects
Episcopal Committee (Second)
Overseas Development
Social Action
Sons of Allen
Women In Ministry

Announcements
Adjournment

12:00 Noon / Lunch

2:00 - 5:30 p.m. / Business Session VI

Bishop William Phillips DeVeaux, Presiding
Call to Order
Devotional Period
Reports:
Commission on Stewardship & Finance
Revisions Committee (Fourth)
Connectional Music
State of the Church
Health Commission
Economic Development
Public Relations
Memoirs

Announcements
Adjournment

6:00 p.m. / Dinner

8:00 – 9:45 p.m. / Business Session VII
Bishop Theodore Larry Kirkland, Presiding
Call to Order
Devotional Period

Reports:
Revisions Committee (Fifth)
Reception of Fraternal Delegates
CONVO’s IX, X, XI
Strategic Planning

Announcements
Adjournment

9:45 – 10:00 p.m. / Evening Prayers

Tuesday, July 8, 2008 / Fifth Day

6:00 – 7:00 a.m. / A Call to Early Morning Prayer
7:00 – 8:00 a.m. / Episcopal District Delegations and Committees
8:00 – 9:00 a.m. / Bible Study
Bishop Samuel Lawrence Green Sr., Presiding
Department of Church Growth and Development

9:00 – 12:00 / Business Session VIII
Bishop Adam Jefferson Richardson Jr., Presiding
Call to Order
Minutes
Reports:
Episcopal District Nominations
Council of Bishops Nominations
Revisions Committee (Sixth)
Episcopal Committee (Third)
Judicial Council

Announcements
Adjournment

12:00 Noon / Lunch

2:00 – 5:30 p.m. / Business Session IX
Bishop Richard Franklin Norris, Presiding
Call to Order
Devotional Period
Reports:
Revisions Committee (Seventh)
General Board

Announcements
Adjournment

6:00 p.m. / Dinner

7:35 – 9:45 p.m. / “An Evening with the Arts” Presented by the Committee on Music and Christian Arts Ministry (Hotel Ballroom)

Wednesday, July 9, 2008 / Sixth Day

6:00 – 7:00 a.m. / A Call to Early Morning Prayer
7:00 – 8:00 a.m. / Episcopal District Delegations and Committees
8:00 a.m. / Proclamation
Bishop Sarah Frances Davis, Presiding
Department of Church Growth and Development

9:00 - 12:00 / Business Session X
Bishop Vashti Murphy McKenzie, Presiding
Call to Order
Devotional Period

Minutes
Reports:
Revisions Committee (Eighth--last opportunity to present new legislation)
General Board

Announcements
Adjournment

12:00 Noon / Lunch

2:00-5:30 p.m. / Business Session XI

Bishop Gregory Gerald McKinley Ingram, Presiding
Call to Order
Devotional Period
Minutes
Revisions Committee (Ninth Report)
Scholarly Papers on Matters of Faith and Witness

Announcements
Adjournment

5:45 – 6:00 p.m. / Evening Prayers

6:00 p.m. / Dinner

7:30 – 9:45 p.m. / Retirement Service for Bishops
Bishop Preston Warren Williams II, Presiding

Thursday, July 10, 2008 / Seventh Day

6:00 – 7:00 a.m. / A Call to Early Morning Prayer
7:00- 8:00 a.m. / Episcopal District Delegations and Committees
8:00 – 9:00 a.m. / Bible Study
Bishop E. Earl McCloud Jr., Presiding

9:00 a.m. / Business Session XII

Bishop Wilfred Jacobus Messiah, Presiding
Election of Bishops, General Officers and Judicial Council

Announcements
Adjournment

12:00 Noon / Lunch

2:00 – 5:30 p.m. / Business Session XIII**

Bishop Paul Jones Mulenga Kawimbe, Presiding
Call to Order
Devotional Period
Installation of General Officers
Minutes
Resolutions
Revisions Committee (Final Report)

Announcements
Adjournment

5:45 – 6:00 p.m. / Evening Prayers

6:00 p.m. / Dinner

**In the event of time overruns, the session will move to Friday morning prior to the Consecration Service

Friday, July 11, 2008 / Eighth Day

9:00 a.m. / Consecration Service
Bishop John Richard Bryant, Worship Leader
Bishop Philip Robert Cousin Sr., Senior Bishop, Preaching

11:30 a.m. / Business Session XIV
Bishop Carolyn Tyler Guidry, Presiding
Call to Order
Episcopal Committee (Final Report)
Adjournment

General Board Meeting
Bishop Paul Jones Mulenga Kawimbe, President of the Council of Bishops, Organizer

4:00 p.m. / General Board Organization (Hotel)

Other Connectional Activities

Thursday, July 3, 2008
9:00 a.m. / 5th District Golf Tournament

Saturday, July 5, 2008
6:30 a.m. / CONN-M-SWAWO Breakfast

Sunday, July 6, 2008
6:30 a.m. / Payne Theological Seminary Breakfast
1:00 p.m. / Connectional Lay Organization Luncheon
1:30 – 3:30 p.m. / WIM Meeting
2:00 - 4:00 p.m. / Luncheon for Chaplains and their families

Monday, July 7, 2008
6:30 a.m. / 2nd District Breakfast
6:30 a.m. / 4th District Breakfast
6:30 a.m. / 7th District Breakfast
6:30 a.m. / 11th District Breakfast
6:30 a.m. / 12th District Breakfast

Tuesday, July 8, 2008
6:30 a.m. / Connectional WMS Breakfast
6:30 a.m. / Turner Theological Seminary Alumni Breakfast

Wednesday, July 9 2008
6:30 a.m. / 1st District Breakfast
6:30 a.m. / 3rd District Breakfast
6:30 a.m. / 6th District Breakfast
6:30 a.m. / 10th District Breakfast
6:30 a.m. / 13th District Breakfast
6:30 a.m. / 16th District Breakfast

- - - - - - - - - - - - Cut Here - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

5. FOR ALL OF THE GENERAL CONFERENCE INFORMATION:

http://www.ame-church.com/news-and-events/general-conference/quadrennial08.php

6. ST. PAUL AME OF PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA BUILDS NEW CHURCH:

Written by Angelena Spears
Philadelphia Conference Reporter

The new St. Paul AME Church at the corner of 83rd Street and Lindbergh Boulevard in Philadelphia – is the first AME church to be built from the ground up in the Philadelphia area in 17 years! And it is only the second to be built from the ground up in the area in 75 years.

The new structure is a one-story, 7600- square-foot edifice that sits on 10 acres in the southeast section of the city.

Barbara Brockington, a long-time member and steward at St. Paul, describes the new church as “bright and cheery” and says, “There is something reverent about it.”

St. Paul’s pastor, the Rev. Eugene V. McDuffy, says the new location makes St. Paul more visible, there is adequate parking and plenty of room to expand. He says the church plans on building a housing unit – or other income-producing facility on the property – to help it become financially solvent.

Although the new edifice is less than two miles from the previous location – more than five years stood between the groundbreaking ceremony in 2002 and the dedication service held on February 16.

After such a long wait – the dedication service was filled with uninhibited praise. Shouts of joy erupted early in the program as Sister Brockington delivered the welcome. Her remarks included references to how long the church had “waited to see this day.”

The shouts of praise continued throughout the service as Bishop Richard Franklin Norris, presiding prelate of the First Episcopal District, preached a sermon based on two familiar texts. The first was Psalm 122:1-2, “I was glad when they said unto me, let us go into the house of the Lord. Our feet shall stand within your gates, O Jerusalem.”

The second text was Psalm 84:1, “How amiable are thy tabernacles, O Lord of hosts.”

The members of St. Paul had indeed waited a long time to enter their new sanctuary. It was more than 10 years ago that they were first approached by the city of Philadelphia’s Redevelopment Authority. The Authority wanted to acquire the church’s property to use as part of an expansion plan for the nearby Philadelphia airport.

What followed was the city acquiring the church property by eminent domain and then a tumultuous building project that included two contractors who were not able to finish the project.

At the onset of his sermon, Bishop Norris told the members of St. Paul that their building project had been one of the most challenging efforts he had ever overseen during his episcopacy.

Both Bishop Norris and Rev. McDuffy credited the members of St. Paul for being steadfast in seeing their building project through fruition.

Rev. McDuffy says two persons who “really were on the front lines” were Nick Duren, who acted as coordinator for the project, and George Garrett, the president pro tem of the trustee board, who was part of all of the negotiations with the city and also worked with the contractors.

Duren, a retired pharmaceutical executive and trustee at St. Paul, coordinated the project from the start to the end and worked with all of the contractors throughout the seven years. Both he and Garret were at the church daily throughout the building process, according to Rev. McDuffy.

The members of St. Paul joined in a historic two-mile march from the old church to the new building on Saturday, March 1, 2008. The march was led by the Rev. Dr. Charles H. Lett, Sr., presiding elder of the South Philadelphia District and Rev. McDuffy.

Rev. McDuffy’s wife, the Rev. Joelle D. McDuffy, also participated in the march.

Submitted by Angelena Spears
Philadelphia Conference Reporter

7. NEWS FROM THE NINTH EPISCOPAL DISTRICT:

Brother Kelvin J. Anthony
Associate Minister,
Ward Chapel A.M.E. Church, Bessemer, Alabama

On Sunday May 18th, 2008, the pastor and members of the Historic Saint Matthew African Methodist Episcopal Church, Greensboro, Alabama gathered together to rededicate the church sanctuary. The Dedication Service was concelebrated at 3:30 P.M. The Holy Ghost moved in awesome wonder as the Saint Matthew A.M.E. and St. Paul C.M.E. Church choirs celebrated in song; they sang from the from the depths of their hearts. The choir modeled a great ecumenical fellowship as they came together to give praise to God.

The Rev. Truman A. Reynolds, Presiding Elder, Bessemer - Tuscaloosa Greensboro District was the chief liturgist. Ministers of the A.M.E., C.M.E., Baptist, non-denominational Churches were present. After the sermonic hymn, Bishop T. Larry Kirkland electrified the congregation by singing, "I Made It!" Then the Bishop Preached a strong and encouraging message and he lifted some strong points; he stressed that we need to rejoice, pray and lift up our eyes to God from whence cometh all of our help.

After the invitation to Christian Discipleship, Bishop Kirkland led the service of rededication. Following the dedication service, the congregation recessed out of the church for the cornerstone laying ceremony done by the New Beginning Lodge (Masons)!

Upon completion of the Masonic ceremony, Bishop Kirkland blessed the cornerstone and gave the benediction.

St. Matthew A.M.E. Church is mother church in Alabama. The church's history dates back to the Underground Railroad.

Dr. Martin Luther King, Andrew Jackson, Jesse Jackson, and many other notables have visited and have preached from the pulpit of this historic church.

The church was blessed to have the ecclesiastical presence of Bishop T. Larry Kirkland and we pray that God will continue to Bless Bishop Kirkland and we are also praying that he will continue to do the work of God.

8. THE REV. RALPH E. WILLIAMSON AND CONGREGATION OF FAME CELEBRATED 42ND ANNIVERSARY:

Submitted by the Rev. Edrena Houston Brown, MACE

The Reverend Ralph E. Williamson, the outstanding pastor of First A.M.E. Church, Las Vegas, Nevada has been nominated as Nominated as, “Clergy of the Week. Pastor Williamson has been nominated by several of his congregates because of his love for the congregants and for the outstanding work in saving souls and kingdom building.

Recently, a grandeur celebration of First African Methodist Episcopal Church, Las Vegas, Nevada celebrated their 42nd Anniversary. The event began with a church and community banquet which was held in the “Top of the River Ballroom” of the Riviera Hotel, Las Vegas. The black tie event was a sold-out affair to be remembered by all. The Illustrious Bishop Vashti Murphy McKenzie was the speaker for this 42nd Year Ruby Jubilee Celebration.

The Rev. Leslie R. White, Senior Pastor of Grant AME Church, Los Angeles was the morning worship preacher 8:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. worship services. The Rev. Mark Whitlock, Pastor, Christ Our Redeemer AME Church, Irving, California was the preacher for the 3:00 p.m. ground breaking Ceremony.

The officers, members and guest dignitaries assembled on the new site with a ground breaking ceremony for the new edifice with gold shovels. The new facility will cost $2.6 million and will seat 500 persons, and with the old structure, FAME will have an excellent facility for educational and community activities.

First AME Church (FAME) is one of the fastest growing churches in Las Vegas. Within the last l8 months, the church has received more than l00 new members. Also, the congregation is developing an attractive program for the youth.

One of the trustees said, “Our church is optimistic enough to believe that we will be in the new facility in October 2008 and is asking for the prayers of the church for this blessing.”

The Rev. Ralph E. Williamson was appointed as the pastor of First A.M.E. Church North Las Vegas, Nevada in November 2003. Upon his assignment his spiritual aspirations for this congregation has been "Reaching for Excellence through the Word of God." His proven leadership and Godly wisdom has been demonstrated in developing outreach ministries.

He serves on the Executive Board of (CAAN) Caucus of African American Nevadans and the Advisory Board for (SNCCW) Southern Nevada Coalition of Concerned Women. He is a member of the Las Vegas Chapter of the NAACP, the Ministerial Alliance of Southern Nevada, the North Las Vegas Chamber of Commerce, and is the President and CEO of FAME Transportation Inc., a non profit Community Development Corporation of First AME Church.

Pastor Williamson received a Bachelor of Science Degree from Colorado Christian University, a Master of Divinity at the Iliff School of Theology, and is a graduate of Harvard University’s Summer Leadership Conference. He is currently pursuing his Doctor of Ministry degree at United Theological Seminary in Dayton Ohio.

Among his ministry appointments was an assignment to Christ Our Redeemer AME Church, Denver, Colorado and Hubbard Chapel AME Church in LaJunta, Colorado. He also served as Church Administrator and associate minister at Shorter Community AME Church in Denver and assistant youth minister and Christian Education Superintendent at Payne Chapel AME Church in Colorado Springs.

With an emphasis on church growth, community outreach and "loving our neighbors as ourselves," he continues to proclaim the Gospel of Jesus Christ. This servant of God has received many special awards and honors recognizing his professional, academic and community achievements, including being named as "Preacher of the Year" by the AME Church Fifth District Lay Organization.

Congratulations, Pastor Ralph E. Williamson for being nominated as "Clergy of the Week" for his outstanding work in ministry. Congratulations to the officers and parishioners of First A.M.E. Church.

*If you are interested in nominating your pastor, clergy, laity or youth of the week please email; ebrown49@hotmail.com

* Special thanks to Dr. Leedell W. Neyland for contributing to this article.

9. ON THE ROAD TO ST. LOUIS- PASTOR HARRIS REPORTS:

I am struck by the need I have to return home quickly to be at the side of a dear friend and member of my congregation at Greater Allen AMEC in Dayton. I am grateful to have this moment to pause and reflect, after the flurry of activity which ended just moments ago, as I urgently sought to change my flight arrangements. I need to return now – not tomorrow, as planned. A friend is in need.

Now, sitting on this flight – a connection flight from Jamaica to Florida, I have a sense of calm, a sense of peace before the storm I know waits when I return home to comfort a member who just lost his wife of many years. What will I say to help this brother take heart as he faces the days ahead? Right now, I don’t know what I will say. I do know that when the moment comes, God will guide my tongue as he has done so often in these deep and dark moments of life.

I was just talking with some of the delegates to the General Conference at a meeting in Jamaica. I shared with them my quest to become a Bishop in the African Methodist Episcopal Church. I sought their support. I assured them of the integrity, vision and courage I would bring to this role – and the way my background has prepared me to serve in such a time as this. I was energized by their enthusiasm and strengthened by their pledges of support. When a phone call from a Steward at my church back home interrupted the well-laid plans I had made for these days, immediately I knew my place was at home at the side of my friend and member – my brother.

Running for the bishopric is a demanding race. The quest to reach this esteemed level of service in our church challenges hopefuls to balance this journey with their usual roles of tending to the sick, eulogizing the departed and comforting the living. We are stretched thin by the legitimate demands for our time by members of our congregations, by our interest in and responsibility to our larger community and world, the needs of our families and friends to be in our presence and share in their worlds, and our own heart’s desires to offer more of ourselves to our global church.

Yet God called me to pastor. This clarity of purpose makes it easier for me to decide where I should be and what I should be doing at any given moment. I relish the role of pastor and the gift I have for bringing solace to those near and dear. When I find the words and the ways to comfort the husband who has just lost his wife, the wife who has just lost the man she has loved since she was a girl, the mother who is sending her child off to war, the sister who worries about her brother…I know that God is working through me and I know that I am where I am supposed to be.

I want to be a Bishop in the AME Church. I want to share the knowledge and skills and abilities I learned on this journey through life with a larger church audience. Call me Chief Pastor, if you like, but know this – I will first, last and always be a pastor as I move through the world doing the work God has called me to do.

We’re landing in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida. I need to run to connect to my flight back home. I will see you on the campaign trail, I will see you in St. Louis, and when you need a pastor, I will be there.

Pastor Earl G. Harris

10. FROM BMG AWESOME INSIGHT NEWSLETTER:

A Church Leader's Guide to Communications

Who needs Vacation Bible School or Summer Camp? I ask this question; not to be radical but to encourage us to think beyond the walls of the church. As many congregations prepare for a week of Bible study, arts, crafts, drama and lots more, it may be time to explore how to reach the community's children who may not have a church home. To begin your plans to reach out, you may want to stand on the front lawn of your church and simply ponder, "Who needs Vacation Bible School?"

Vacation Bible School (VBS) and summer camp are great opportunities to open hearts and minds and prepare to bring even more people to experience the Gospel. As we continue to seek ways to be even more faithful to the Great Commission, now may be a perfect time to remind ministry leaders, camp coordinators and VBS teachers to simply "go" and invite the community.

Welcome to this issue of BMG Awesome Insight Newsletter. Whether you are trying to reach the "unchurched children" in the community or you want to hear "awesome" more, this issue shares a few tips to help reach out and invite.

As we prepare for the summer season, it is my prayer that congregations continue to seek ways to reach the unchurched, share the Good News and make disciples. I urge you to share this issue of BMG Awesome Newsletter for Church Leaders with a colleague in ministry. Encourage them to sign up for the newsletter at www.awesomeinsight.com.

*Used with permission of Sister Lynette Hawkins, BMG Awesome Insight Newsletter www.awesomeinsight.com

11. THE REV. JOHN F. WHITE II SELECTED BY THE AFRICAN-AMERICAN PULPIT AS ONE OF THE 20 TO WATCH UNDER 40:

The Rev. John F. White II, pastor of New Mt. Zion A.M.E.C. in Tallahassee has been selected by the African American Pulpit’s “20 to Watch.” The African American Pulpit stated that he had achieved this distinguished honor because he was one of the outstanding African American ministers under the age of 40 playing a major role in shaping the future direction of the African American Church. Rev. White was recognized along with the class of 2002 and 2005, as some of brightest and best hopes for the continued remarkable legacy of the African American church to “bring good news to the poor and set at liberty those that are oppressed.”
12. NEW MT. ZION AME CHURCH SPONSORS TEACHERS APPRECIATION LUNCHEONS:

A Tallahassee church treated teachers and staff from two area schools to lunch during Teachers Appreciation Week.

New Mt. Zion African Methodist Episcopal Church (New Mt. Zion) shared in its second annual Teachers Appreciation Luncheon on May 8 at Griffin Middle School and on May 9 at Godby High School. The church catered an assortment of barbeque and fixings for lunch, and church volunteers served and greeted the teachers and staff from each school.

“This is a time to give thanks to teachers and staff that work so hard for and with our children in this community,” New Mt. Zion Pastor John F. White II told the Capital Outlook. “We strongly feel that this is an opportunity to reach out to those that take care of and educate our children on a daily basis and who often go unrecognized. It’s great to give back to the community.”

White said the church, located in the two schools’ community, appreciates those that give to help students achieve their mission of receiving a great education.

“We have an obligation to love God and one another,” he said. “In other words, we like to show our gratitude by giving for Teachers Appreciation Week because it gives a sense of occasion to the day and undoubtedly demonstrates the importance of the role each teacher plays in the development of a child.”

Teachers Appreciation Week is celebrated nationally, and it is designed to mark the gratitude for teachers felt by students, parents, and employers alike and different educational institutions will see it celebrated in a variety of ways – from special activities to the presentation of teacher appreciation gifts and cards.

Submitted by the Rev. John H. White II

13. HILLTOP POLICY BOARD APPROVES DAILY PRINT ISSUES FOR THE 2008-2009 ACADEMIC YEAR - THE ONLY BLACK NEWSPAPER TO PRINT DAILY:

The Hilltop Policy Board has approved The Hilltop newspaper to publish daily for the 2008-2009 academic year at a board meeting today. The decision was made after two months without a print edition. On August 25th, 2008, The Hilltop will begin printing and distributing 7,000 issues a day across Howard University's campus, remaining the only black newspaper to print daily.

14. GENERAL CONFERENCE SHORTENS CANDIDACY PROCESS:

A UMNS Report
By Vicki Brown*

The candidacy process for ordained ministry in The United Methodist Church will be shortened by two years beginning in January 2009, under legislation approved by the 2008 General Conference.

"Steps were taken to shorten and expedite the process and make it more accessible," said the Rev. Sharon Rubey, director of Candidacy and Conference Relations at the United Methodist Board of Higher Education and Ministry.

"The effect of these changes reduces the possible years from entry into candidacy to ordination by two years, plus makes the process less prescriptive, therefore making it more accessible to more possible candidates."

General Conference, meeting this spring in Fort Worth, Texas, affirmed legislation allowing a candidate to begin the ordination process with a minimum one-year membership in a church, campus ministry or other United Methodist ministry setting. The previous requirement was two years.

Other legislation made changes in probationary membership, including reducing the requirement from a minimum of three years to a minimum of two and changing the name to provisional instead of probationary membership.

Provisional members still will be required to follow a residency curriculum of theological education, take part in covenant groups and undergo mentoring with evaluation by their district superintendent and Board of Ordained Ministry.

The result will be more intense work for the candidates and the annual conferences, said the Rev. Anita Wood, the board's director of professional ministry development.

However, since the legislation requires a minimum of two years, Wood said annual conferences still have the option of a longer provisional period.

Complaints from young adults

Efforts to streamline and shorten the process without weakening it were in response to complaints from young adults that the process takes too long, according to the Rev. Rodney Steele. He was part of a group of delegates from the South Central Jurisdiction who drafted the legislation out of concern that the process is discouraging young ministry candidates.

"By the time people articulate that they are feeling called to ordained ministry, they've answered a lot of the questions that are part of the current process," said Steele, a member of board's elected directors.

The addition of campus ministry and mission churches as fulfilling that two-year membership requirement is particularly important, he said.

"We are seeing college students who get involved in campus ministry and decide to seek ordination. This legislation will let that time in campus ministry count as church membership," he said.

Approved legislation also provides new language to be more accessible to other cultural, racial/ethnic and non-English-speaking candidates. The petition passed by a sizeable majority in the legislative committee, and was approved by the entire assembly on the consent calendar.

In addition to campus ministry, membership in a United Methodist faith community or mission church that is not yet an established church will fulfill the one-year requirement.

The candidate, along with a candidacy mentor, will study resources determined by the conference Board of Ordained Ministry based on the candidate's statement of call, Wesley's historic questions found in Paragraph 310 of The Book of Discipline, and questions about formative experiences, the role of the church, Christian beliefs and personal gifts for ministry, which are listed in Paragraph 311.3.b and c.

This means there is no prescribed Candidacy Guidebook. However, the petition states that candidates are "encouraged to use resources recommended by the General Board of Higher Education and Ministry." Rubey said recommendations will be offered as the process is implemented in January 2009.

Cultural and racial/ethnic realities

The required completion and release of psychological assessment reports, criminal background and credit checks remain in the process. However, the new paragraph states that district committees "shall seek ways to consider cultural and ethnic/racial realities in meeting these requirements."

Following one year as a certified candidate, if half the educational requirements have been met, the candidate is eligible to be commissioned and become a provisional member. Petition Nos. 80310, 80313, and 81450 also were approved on the consent calendar.

The language was changed to state that provisional members will be appointed by a bishop to serve a minimum of two years (reduced from three) following the completion of all educational requirements. Language also was added to make it clear that those in provisional membership "may be appointed to attend school, to extension ministry, or in appointments beyond the local church."

Steele noted that this is permissive legislation and believes some conferences, including his own, will keep the three-year provisional requirement. "It's working well for us, so I think the shortening for us will come on the front end," said Steele, a district superintendent in the Arkansas Annual Conference.

*Brown is associate editor and writer in the Office of Interpretation at the United Methodist Board of Higher Education and Ministry.

News media contact: Linda Green, (615) 742-5470 or newsdesk@umcom.org.

*Used with permission of the United Methodist News Service

15. (UMC) BISHOPS CAN GIVE DEACONS SACRAMENTAL AUTHORITY:

A UMNS Report
By Vicki Brown*

United Methodist bishops will be allowed to grant authority to deacons to administer Holy Communion and baptism in certain circumstances under legislation approved this spring by General Conference.

The authority can be granted to a deacon within his or her primary appointment in the absence of an elder. The change takes effect in January 2009.

"This legislation is an effort to extend the mission and ministry of the church in extraordinary circumstances when an elder is not present," said the Rev. Mary Ann Moman, a staff executive with the United Methodist Board of Higher Education and Ministry.

"The legislation is a reminder of the importance of the sacramental ministry in the church and the world. It is fair to ask why elders aren't present in the places where the sacraments are needed."

The board presented the petition through its Study of Ministry Commission, which also asked to continue a denomination-wide conversation regarding ordination and sacramental authority for four more years. Delegates voted to create a new commission to continue that conversation and also approved the legislation allowing sacramental authority.

The legislation was approved by 67 percent of the delegates voting. General Conference, the top legislative body of The United Methodist Church, met April 23-May 2 in Fort Worth, Texas.

The petition amends the Book of Discipline to add: "For the sake of extending the mission and ministry of the church, a pastor-in-charge or district superintendent may request that the bishop grant local sacramental authority to the deacon to administer the sacraments in the absence of an elder, within a deacon's primary appointment." (Paragraph 328.)

Moman said agency staff will work with the Council of Bishops as the church's episcopal leaders address the issues of implementation, including exactly what situations would apply.

The board plans to distribute information to deacons, chairs of orders, and annual conference Boards of Ordained Ministry about the change.

The Rev. Sharon Rubey, director of candidacy and conference relations, said the legislation gives the authority to "extend the means of grace for the missional needs of the church, and not a means of convenience."

The Rev. Anita Wood, the board's director of professional ministry development, said the heart of the ministry of the deacon remains the call to connect the needs of the world to the ministries of the church.

"Deacons are called to the responsibility to serve in specialized ways that bridge ministries of the congregation with the needs of the community. Sometimes that may call for sacramental authority, and many times, not," Wood said.

Wood said it will be important to articulate the connection between the ministries of the deacon and offering the means of grace through sacramental authority and will require much discussion and discernment. "Informal conversations have already begun," she said.

*Brown is associate editor and writer, Office of Interpretation, United Methodist Board of Higher Education and Ministry.

News media contact: Linda Green, e-mail: newsdesk@umcom.org.

*Used with permission of the United Methodist News Service

16. (UMC) DELEGATES CALL FOR WORLD PEACE, END TO WAR IN IRAQ:

By Kathy L. Gilbert*

FORT WORTH, Texas (UMNS) - The Iraq war, world peace and prayers for members of the armed forces and veterans were on the hearts and minds of delegates to the 2008 United Methodist General Conference.

The denomination's lawmaking body approved petitions calling for an immediate end to the war in Iraq, a ban on cluster bombs, the prevention of "space weaponization" and study of the "degrading effects that war crimes, crimes against humanity and genocide have on the victims, the perpetrators and on those who silently stand by."

The statement on space weaponization calls for the rejection of any nation's efforts to "weaponize" space and urges all nations to pursue the "peaceful and collaborative development of space technologies and of outer space itself."

Other petitions approved include a statement on war and peace and the "high toll" war exacts on young people; a call for support and services for rebuilding Iraq; and an affirmation that the U.S. military should not exclude people from service on the basis of sexual orientation or gender identity.

The General Conference was held in the Fort Worth Convention Center April 23-May 2. The assembly meets every four years to set policy and is the only body that speaks for The United Methodist Church. Its resolutions on a wide range of issues are collected in the denomination's Book of Resolutions, revised every four years.

Peace in Iraq

A revised resolution on peace in Iraq was adopted by a vote of 836-28. United Methodists throughout the world are asked to pray for an immediate end to the Iraq war and to support public policies that promote peace, justice and reconciliation.

"The war in Iraq must end. It is a tragedy that wounds the heart of God. Thousands of lives have been lost, millions of Iraqis have fled their country, and hundreds of billions of dollars wasted in a war the United States initiated and never should have fought," the resolution states.

In the resolution, the 2008 General Conference calls upon the U.S. government to end the violence by developing and implementing a plan for the immediate and safe withdrawal of U.S. and partner coalition troops from Iraq. The government is also asked to work with Iraqis of good will, the United Nations and nations in the Middle East to bring about a peaceful, long-term resolution.

A separate new resolution on support and services for U.S. military and rebuilding Iraq was approved.

"We call upon the government of the United States and its partners in the Iraq war to provide full support and services for as long as needed for returning veterans, especially for those wounded in body and spirit by their experiences in the war," states the resolution. Medical treatment, counseling, training for employment and a "generous pension" are some of the services called for in the resolution.

The rebuilding of Iraq's infrastructure, especially the medical system, is also on the list of concerns.

A copy of the resolution, "Support and Services for U.S. Military and Rebuilding Iraq," will be sent to the U.S. president, vice president, secretary of state, secretary of defense, congressional leadership and leaders of partner countries with troops in Iraq.

Instruments of peace

The United Methodist Division on Ministries with Young People's statement on war and peace was adopted by a vote of 836-28. The division is part of the Board of Discipleship. The Global Young People's Convocation and Legislative Assembly drafted the statement during the gathering held in South Africa at the end of 2006.

The statement says young people are among those sent to the front lines of every war; the ones who pay the price of military action at the expense of education, health and security; and among the least represented in decision-making bodies.

"We empower all young people around the world to actively work for peace within their churches, their communities and our world. We are the young people of The United Methodist Church. We affirm God's clear call to be instruments of peace in all corners of the world."

The General Conference also directed the denomination's Board of Discipleship and Board of Church and Society to develop study materials that will inform youth and young adults about theological issues surrounding war and peace.

The paragraph in the Book of Discipline on war and peace (165.C) was amended to include opposition to "unilateral first/pre-emptive strike actions and strategies on the part of any government." It also states, "As disciples of Christ, we are called to love our enemies, reject the use of violence, seek justice and serve as reconcilers of conflict."

The petition, proposed by Methodists United for Peace with Justice, was a return "to the historic, unconditional position of the Methodist Church and Evangelical United Brethren Church that war is incompatible with the teachings and example of Christ."

"A Call for Peacemaking" was adopted and will become a new resolution in the 2008 Book of Resolutions. It calls for "United Methodist children, youth and adults as devoted disciples of Jesus Christ to become peacemakers." Bishops, local churches, annual conferences and the denomination's boards and agencies are to incorporate peacemaking into their regular programs and budgets.

Another new resolution calls for abolishing all nuclear weapons, renounces the use of chemical or biological weapons, and strongly protests unilateral first-strike actions and strategies. The U.S. government is asked to work "with all deliberate speed" toward peaceful resolutions of issues with Iran, North Korea, the Middle East and the rest of the world and to reject any first-strike action by U.S. armed forces anywhere.

Prayers and support are offered in resolutions that honor those who choose to serve in the armed forces and for those who conscientiously oppose all war.

*Gilbert is a United Methodist News Service news writer based in Nashville, Tenn.

News media contact: Kathy L. Gilbert, Nashville, Tenn., (615) 742-5470 or newsdesk@umcom.org.

*Used with permission of the United Methodist News Service

17. CLERGY FAMILY CONGRATULATORY MESSAGES:

- Announcing the "Celebration of Service" honoring Dr. Delano L. Bowman, Sr., Presiding Elder of the "Notable" North District, Michigan Conference, 4th Episcopal District on Friday, June 13, 2008 at 7:00 P.M. at Bethel A.M.E. Church, 535 Cathay Street, Saginaw, Michigan.

Congratulatory messages may be sent to:
Rev. Dr. Delano L. Bowman, Sr.
P.O. Box 978
Southfield, MI 48037-0978

Or congratulatory messages may be sent electronically to: notablenorth@comcast.net

- The Dean, Faculty and Staff of the Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University College of Law announce the hooding of Yolanda Aisha Bruce, Juris Doctor Candidate at the annual Hooding Ceremony, Saturday, May 17, 2008. She is the daughter of the late Presiding Elder Y. Benjamin Bruce, Sr., former General Officer and Mrs. Gloria S. Bruce.

Congratulatory messages may be sent to:
Yolanda Aisha Bruce
8128 Banyan Blvd.
Orlando, FL 32819

Or congratulatory messages may be sent electronically to: brucegs@bellsouth.net

- Mrs. Yulise Reaves Waters, president of the North Texas Annual Conference Clergy Spouses Organization, is a candidate for the Juris Doctorate at Southern Methodist University's Dedman School of Law on May 17, 2008. Mrs. Waters is the First Lady of Greater Garth Chapel AME Church, Dallas, Texas, where her husband, the Rev. Michael Williams Waters, is pastor.

Congratulatory messages can be sent to: yulisewaters@yahoo.com


- Ms. Adrienne Mattie-Ellen Quickley graduated from Prairie View A&M University in Prairie View, Texas on May 10, 2008, receiving the Bachelor of Business Administration Degree in Management Information Systems. Adrienne has been offered a position with Texas Instruments in Plano, Texas. Her brother, William Quickley II, alumni of PVAMU, was promoted to 1st Lieutenant and is enroute from Camp Taji, Iraq (for leave) to celebrate with his sister.

Adrienne is the daughter of Rev. Dr. William Quickley (pastor of Bethel AME Church-Belton, Texas) and Mrs. Adrienne Quickley (first lady).

Congratulatory messages may be sent to: ameq27@sbcglobal.net

Or

Miss Adrienne Mattie Ellen Quickley
401 South Davis Street
Belton, Texas 76513
Ph: (254) 939-0824

- It is with great delight that we at Agape Temple African Methodist Episcopal Church extend an invitation to you to join us as we celebrate our pastor and assistant pastor in their graduation from SMU Perkins School of Theology with Master of Divinity degrees! THE SMU Perkins School of Theology graduation ceremony will be held on Saturday, May 17, 2008 at 2:00 p.m. at the Highland Park UMC.

The Rev. Ella M. McDonald and the Rev. Terrie Jenkins will both receive the Master of Divinity degree.

On Sunday, May 18, 2008 at 10:45 a.m. along with our Worship Service, Agape Temple African Methodist Episcopal Church located at 3432 Mingo Street, Dallas Texas will honor and recognize our pastor, the Rev. Ella M. McDonald and our assistant pastor, the Rev. Terrie Jenkins for their successful achievements.

Congratulatory messages may be sent to:

The Rev. Terri Jenkins
3700 Preston Road, Apt. #531
Plano, Texas 75093
Ph: (214) 566-8421

The Rev. Ella M. McDonald
3916 Waterford Street
Denton, Texas 76210
Ph: (940) 484-7163
Email: emmcd7@verizon.net

- Mrs. Tamara Gibson, wife of the Reverend Kyle C. Gibson, pastor of Historic Bethel AME Church Deland-Florida, graduated form the nursing program at Keiser University on May 10, 2008.

Congratulatory messages may be sent to Tamara Gibson: Tamaragibson@bellsouth.net

- The Rev. Kyle C. Gibson was the speaker for the 2008 Leadership Deland class culminating on May 12, 2008, in which he was also a member. Leadership Deland is a thirteen (13) week leadership program sponsored by Stetson University and the Deland Chamber of Commerce, which gives insight to the local government of Volusia County.

Congratulatory messages may be sent to Rev. Kyle C. Gibson: KC2020vision@aol.com

18. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

We regret to inform you of the death on Thursday, May 15, 2008 of Mrs. Clara Banks Smith, the mother of Jack, Roy, Vance and the Reverend James Earl "Book" Smith, pastor of Saint Paul AME Church in Versailles, KY.

Service arrangements for Mrs. Clara Banks:

Visitation will be at the Second Saint Siloam Baptist Church in Brewton, Alabama on Wednesday, May 21, 2008 from 6 to 8 pm (CST).

Homegoing
Homegoing Worship will be observed at Second Saint Siloam Baptist Church on Thursday, May 22, 2008 at 1 pm (CST).

Contact Information
Turner Funeral Chapel
83 Westbrook Lane
Atmore, AL 36502
251/368-2400

Second Saint Siloam Baptist Church
209 East Street
Brewton, AL 36426
251/867-5674

The Reverend James Earl Smith
104 Brampton Place
Versailles, KY 40383-9237
859/879-9237
Pastorbook59@aol.com

19. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

We regret to inform you of the death on Thursday, May 15, 2008, of Mrs. Lillie C. Harris, the widow of the late Reverend James Harris. She was a beloved member of the Tennessee Conference Branch WMS, the Minister's Spouses organization and a faithful member of St. Paul AME Church Nashville, TN where she served in many capacities.

Service arrangements for Mrs. Lillie C. Harris:
Public viewing:
Monday, May 19, 2008
2:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Lewis and Wright Funeral Home
2500 Clarksville Highway
Nashville, TN
Phone: 615/255-2371

Family visitation:
Tuesday, May 20, 2008
11 a.m. to Noon

The Homegoing celebration to follow:
Greater Bethel AME Church
1300 South Street
Nashville, TN

The Rev. Harold M. Love, Jr. of St. Paul AME Church will conduct services.

20. 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

21. CONDOLENCES TO THE BEREAVED FROM THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER:

The Chair of the Commission on Publications, the Right Reverend Gregory G. M. Ingram; 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.