THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER ONLINE ENGLISH EDITION (6/26/08)

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

Message from the editor: The next couple of scheduled issues The Christian Recorder Online will be sent from the site of the General Conference.

1. EDITORIAL – GENERALITIES DO NOT TELL THE WHOLE STORY AND OFTEN DISTORTS THE TRUTH:

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

Several days ago, I was among a number of persons who received an email message that lauded the citizens of Iowa and their response to the catastrophic floods that hit Iowa and other Midwestern states.

Imbedded in the message was a statement that found dramatic “contrasts between the chronic New Orleans / Louisiana whining and the Iowans' positive attitudes / approaches to their flood woes.”

Another part of the email observed that the people from Iowa and the people from Katrina who were interviewed during each of their events by the news media had a much different approach on their responses to their catastrophes. The people being interviewed from Katrina appeared, to the writer, to ask, "What is the government doing?" and the folks from Iowa, with resolve said, "We will rebuild!"

As I read the email, I thought, “Now here is a perfect example why generalizations are so harmful.”

Generalizations seem harmless and can sound patriotic, or even religious. I don’t mean to get sidetracked, but we preachers have problem with the overuse of generalizations in our sermons.

I wish that life were so simple that generalizations could be the reality of what was and what is. Unfortunately, generalizations are insidious and destructive because generalizations often represent lies and distortions. Generalizations often surface because those who utter them have not bothered to search for the truth and have disregard reality.

I had to respond to the message that forcefully stated, not implied, but forcefully stated that the Iowans exhibited resiliency, while the Katrina victims were whiners.

There are some noticeable differences between those who were victims during Hurricane Katrina and the victims of the 2008 floods in Iowa and in the other Midwestern states.

First, the FEMA responses have been much improved since the FEMA Katrina fiasco.

The Iowans, like the Katrina victims, accepted handouts; that’s first and foremost; but, there were some notable differences.

In Iowa, FEMA went in immediately and set up bottled water and other supply distribution points. The water and other supplies were not readily available for the Katrina victims until days later.

The flooding in the Iowa and in other areas of the Midwest has been devastating and I wouldn’t want to see anyone go through what those citizens have gone through, but FEMA and the other governmental responses have been improved as a result of what happened during Katrina.

Another difference is that the devastation in Katrina was more localized with a larger concentration of people. The state, local and federal governments were unprepared for the disaster and as a result there was more confusion.

In the Midwest, the population was more dispersed and the governmental agencies responded more quickly. If the situation in Iowa had the same delayed response as the Katrina victims, there would have been a loud outcry from the Midwestern flood victims. If thousands of people had been herded into stadiums with insufficient food and water; people left in hospitals to die with officials running around like “chickens with their heads cut off,” there would not be the talk of the resiliency of the Iowans. One can talk about resiliency when systems work; when systems fail to work, chaos and uncertainty surfaces.

People are people, wherever they live, whatever their background or ethnicity; but their responses are largely based upon both internal and external circumstances. It is easier to be positive when agencies are working efficiently.

FEMA learned from Katrina. The June 24, 2008 edition of The Tennessean (Nashville), had a headline on page 1 that said, “Katrina lessons improve FEMA’s response to Midwest flood. “The lessons we learned from Katrina we’ve taken very seriously,” said Glenn Cannon, FEMA assistant administrator for disaster operations. The lessons-learned have benefited many subsequent disaster victims.

Indeed, the Iowans and many of the Midwestern flood victims could be more resilient because the victims of Katrina paid a dear price in lost lives, displacement, breakup of families, unresponsive and ill-equipped local, state, and federal agencies; water and food shortages; and especially the snafus created by the FEMA’s ineffectiveness.

2. RESPONSE TO EDITORIAL AND OTHER ISSUES:

To the Editor:

RE: Payne Theological Seminary’ graduation of online M.Div students

I read, with great interest, the announcement of the first graduates of Payne Seminary's online MDiv students. I was impressed that Bishop Williams had foresight and commitment to provide 50% scholarships (in exchange for a minimum of seven years of service to the 7th District). My inquiry has to do with whether Bishop Williams’ plan or vision is capable of replication from district to district. Even on a connectional level, this seems to be a way to expand educational opportunities to clergy, ensure against limited financial means (and time restraints) being excuses for further education, AND enable the church to retain its "learned" pool or clergy said to be leaving the denomination in droves.

Rev. Lisa Hammonds

Editor's Note: Thanks you for your response to the article, entitled, “Payne Theological Seminary’s First Master of Divinity Online Program Graduates.” Hopefully, other episcopal leaders will get excited and follow the model of Bishop Preston W. Williams II.

- To the Editor:

RE: We Need to Keep Some Things in the AME Church and Other Things Need to be Kept Out

I greatly appreciated your editorial "We Need to Keep Some Things in the AME Church and Other Things Need to be Kept Out." You raise an excellent point regarding the spirit in which the liturgy should be read and followed. Church is not meant to be a "straight-jacket" experience and the liturgy should not be seen as a barrier to the Spirit, but an enhancement. If one ever doubts this, all they need is go to the 22nd Article of Religion in the Discipline regarding "Rites and Ceremonies of the Churches".

Richard Allen stuck with Methodism because he believed that the simplicity of the liturgy combined with frequent usage would provide spiritual nourishment for his flock. In eschewing the Order of Worship and its components, we cheat ourselves of a full worship experience. A holistic worship experience is more than just the choir or the sermon. If that were the case, we could all stop going into churches and buy CDs or DVDs. I have spoken with friends my age and younger who have never heard the full Decalogue or said the Affirmation of Faith regularly in a service. I know that some would argue that in order to make ourselves more "relevant" we need to mimic prevalent trends and gut our liturgy. But as you point out, a dry service doesn't come from the words but the way in which they are said by parishioner and pulpit alike. We do need a revival to wake up the "dry bones".

This time last year I wrote a piece about the state of affairs in the Dominican Republic after the AME liturgy had been lost due to lack of translation into Spanish. With assistance from Bishop Tyler Guidry, Dr. Flowers, and others, the Dominicans have been helped to remember what an AME service looks like and many Dominicans have told me that they never want to go back to the time period without the Call to Worship. Perhaps we do not truly know what we have until we have lost it.

John Thomas III
Ph.D. Student
Department of Political Science
University of Chicago
jthomas3@uchicago.edu

Editor's Note: Thank you for your kind words and thank you for your written response. I have gotten more responses from this editorial than from any other. I had sensed that this was an important issue as a result of the numbers of emails that I have received from clergy and the laity.

- To the Editor

RE: We Need to Keep Some Things in the AME Church and Other Things Need to be Kept Out

You get a big "atta-boy" for the editorial - I'm passing it on!

The Rev. Dr. Joseph Darby

- To the Editor:

RE: We Need to Keep Some Things in the AME Church and Other Things Need to be Kept Out

I am a die hard reader of the Christian Recorder online. I must say that this editorial is one of the best yet. As a layperson in this great connectional church I have learn so much about being a fine A.M.E. layman. In my local church I made myself a committee of one. With the consent of my pastor I constructed a bulletin board entitled TO KNOW YOUR CHURCH. On this board I post all of your editorials to enlighten my fellow members. I must say it is working real well. Leadership has played a big role in my life and like you those leadership skills started with me during my military career. "AIRBORNE." "ALL THE WAY SIR"

Brother Jesse A. Hill

- To the Editor

RE: We Need to Keep Some Things in the AME Church and Other Things Need to be Kept Out

Addressing this issue is long overdue and I thank you very much for it. I have been very unhappy about the way some of our churches are losing theological, denominational, and liturgical roots.

Jessie
JESSROE1@aol.com

- To the Editor:

RE: General Conference Call to Prayer

Thank you for sharing this message. May I also remind us all that we are redeemed. Jesus, our Savior was offered by God the Father for our redemption. All will be as God the Father has assured us, that the redeemed, those who believe that Christ is our redeemer, saved us to another life experience--one that is without doubt...our Christian journey takes us to plateaus not seen by us, but seen by God.

Elections will come, elections will go, and God's great forgiveness will continue, God's great support will continue. God so loved the world that He gave His Son - and whosoever believes that- shall have a life beyond expectations. Just be comforted and believe. We are praying with you, Bishop Davis, and others as we know and get closer in touch with God's blessed redemption.

- To the Editor:

RE: We Need to Keep Some Things in the AME Church and Other Things Need to be Kept Out

Bravo! I read this editorial and shared it with of my friends outside of our denomination who have a respect for liturgy and what worship truly means in bringing people together. Within our Church there are many who feel that our liturgy and worship is outdated and a term I hear too often is “irrelevant” which brings me to a sense of melancholy. My view of worship is that we bring people together on common ground to honor a God who is worthy of adoration and praise. Liturgy seeks to bring all people to a single heart and mind for God, which brings all to “one accord” and then we are all open to the move and presence of God. Hymns are a great help because people connect in common meter and words, which are easy to understand and no one is left to feel on the “outside” within a worship setting. It is the quality and excitement of the worship leader or Pastor that can help set the tone for a vibrant experience if all come with a heart and mind to truly worship.

I am thankful here in the First Episcopal District for Bishop Norris and his declarations of how vibrant our worship can be. When we gather as a district folks shout over hymns, anthems, gospels, and contemporary music. If we truly worship God in spirit and truth, then our worship of God can be achieved no matter the tempo, because God is always worthy. Many groups have patterned their order of worship, consecration liturgy, and style after ours, so I often ask, “Why do we reject what made us great?” If we look outside the denomination one of the greatest Bishops in COGIC history, G.E. Patterson, sang hymns with such feeling and emotion that many “had church”, so I ask “why don’t we find value in our worship liturgy?” The Decalogue is important because we recite so that we may remember. The nation of Israel was told to write and recite for their children and following generations. There is value in this. What is considered one persons old junk, has become the treasure of others.

Please continue to give great editorials to remind us of the value we have as the African Methodist Episcopal Church, which is still the best thing going for people of color today!

The Rev. Jerome Stembridge
Mt. Zion AME Church
Princeton, NJ
www.mtzionameprinceton.com

- To the Editor

Thank you for the wealth of information provided through the online Christian Recorder. I look forward to reading, hearing and learning more about our history and the continuous work of the AME Connectional Church.

The Rev. Stephanie Handy
Randallstown, Maryland

- To the Editor

RE: Focus of the Church

I recently read a copy of The Christian Recorder for the first time. I am not a member of the A.M.E. Church and am not well-versed (much less “versed”) in all of its traditions and doctrines. Instead, I am writing as a seminary student from Western Theological Seminary, which is connected with the Reformed Church in America. My connection with the A.M.E. Church is through a summer internship at Fresh Fire A.M.E. Church in Kalamazoo, Michigan. Please accept my thoughts not as criticism, but as concerns that I also address to the R.C.A.

I read the May 19, 2008 copy of The Christian Recorder with both interest and sadness. I enjoyed learning something about the A.M.E. and reading all of the thoughtful articles. Much of the remainder of the paper raised questions for me. As I stated, I am not versed in the traditions or even the structure of the A.M.E.—I am still learning. What I saw in the paper, though, were all of the advertisements for the quadrennial convention and concerning those pastors and others desiring to become bishops in the church. It was not the fact of the advertising that concerned me—and maybe it should—but what was stated by most of the candidates as their qualities and achievements. These included construction of large sanctuaries, a project that cost $13.5 Million, a $1.5 Million sanctuary, and a $4.5 Million Renovation. These achievements also included apartment buildings, an $8.9 Million senior facility, and a church advertising a new development with “24-Hour Concierge Service.” Even the Quadrennial Conference identified three of its four “Highlight Events” as a golf tournament, a district banquet and an afternoon with the arts.

I do not write to say that these things are not good, but instead write because of a concern I have, even within the RCA, that we as leaders of Christ’s church have allowed ourselves to fall away from the focus of living a life like Christ and our focus being service to others. Instead, the concern many times seems to focus on new members (saved or not), big buildings, and a lot of money. As someone once put it to me, “butts, buildings and bucks” seem to be the focus. Yet, when I look to the Bible, the Word of God, I do not see any concern with any of these things of the world. Instead, I see the example of Christ who had nothing, did not have a sanctuary, and relied on the grace of God and the goodness of those around him to be clothed and fed. Christ was the one who instead threw the money changers out of the temple. Christ was not concerned with these things of the world, but with bringing the message of the Kingdom of God to the world. I also see the example of Paul. Paul did not build sanctuaries, did not ask for money—except that money to be sent to Jerusalem, and when he ran out of money or food, worked as a tent maker for an existence. Paul’s focus had nothing to do with buildings, money or people for the sake of having people. Instead, it was to bring the message of the saving grace of God through the life, death and resurrection of Christ.

Some may wonder if I am a hypocrite. Maybe I am. I accept a salary for the work I do in my internship. Yet, I hope that I remain focused on the message that God is sending through me rather than on the material things of this world. This focus is the one that I worry is being lost by the focus on the material things that I see in many in the church today. If the church of today is seen as focusing on the material world, then it seems to have lost the focus we were given by Christ and by the early church. The early church did not grow by focusing on buildings or money or people for the sake of people. It grew because the Holy Spirit worked within the souls of the poor and oppressed to grow in numbers of saved people.

Should we think that growth cannot occur without relying on money or buildings, I close with an example. There once was a group of people who struggled with the concept of accepting money to increase the size of their organization. In the face of hundreds of thousands of dollars available to them through donations, wills and bequests, this group chose a path to remain corporately poor. They believed that the idea of accepting money for their true purpose would harm the group and harm the message they were teaching. That group started out with two people, grew to one hundred people and today its members number at least 2.5 million. This group is Alcoholics Anonymous. I give this example not to support this group, but to show that the universal church can learn a lot about the power of remaining focused on bringing God’s message to the world and not on “butts, buildings and bucks.”

I thank the A.M.E. for the opportunity that it has given me this year. May your ministries continued to be blessed by God, Christ and the Holy Spirit.

Yours in Christ,

Mark A. VandenBosch

Editor’s Response to Rev. VandenBosch

Thank you for your thoughtful and thought-provoking letter. I appreciate your candor and I will publish your letter. I am not sure if you have read or if you read The Christian Recorder Online; the online edition does not run advertisements for some of the reasons highlighted in your letter.
There is a cultural fascination in the AME Church around the office of bishop, the highest position in the AME Church. After the General Conference that will convene in St. Louis on July 3-11, the ads will disappear for another 3 ½ years; the ads are a four year phenomenon.

I would also encourage you to read The A.M.E. Church Review and some of our other periodicals and in that way, I believe you will get a more well-rounded impression of the African Methodist Episcopal Church. Also, visit The Christian Recorder Online: www.the-christian-recorder.org.

Thank you for reading The Christian Recorder and thank you for your candid observations.

To the Editor:

Your editorials have been great.

I wish that you would elaborate on the duties and functions of a worship leader / liturgist.

It would be good for our episcopal leaders to provide training or have workshops on this issue.

Some Worship Leaders make a complete spectacle of themselves and the worship service; probably because they have not been taught or trained.

Some worship leaders function as a master of mistress of ceremonies and feel that they have to get up and introduce each worship participant. Others feel that they have to make remarks after each worship event and after every musical selection. They wear people out to the point that when the preacher gets up he/she has to work hard to get the people in the frame of mind for worship. Some say and do some things unrelated to the purpose of the service. They even make comments after prayer; they say such things as “Give God a hand clap" and "God is good all the time, and all the time God is good." And if worshippers don’t respond as they are expected to, they ridicule them and claim they don't have the spirit.

Worshippers praise God in their own way and manner, and if a person does not wish to stand when the preacher is exhorting them to do so, it does not mean that, that person is not involved or not spiritually moved. Some people shout within and others are more animated. Worship leaders and pastors should not stereotype worshippers.

I wish that we, AMEs, would be more careful when we select people from other denominations to be worship leaders in our worship services. Sometimes, it is obvious that they just do not know our liturgical and denominational traditions.

Last, worship Leaders should check to see if all participants are present, check to see if there are enough chairs provided for the participants and when the worship service begins, proceed with the order of service, limiting their remarks and make changes only when necessary.

A note of humor; I was at a service sometime ago and there were several ministers present. The worship leader asked one of the visiting ministers, "Would you mind doing the invocation for us?" The minister stuck his chest out and with his deep voice said, “No I didn't come prepared to do that."

The Rev. N.T. Pitts, Retired
Eatonville, Fl.

3. GET TESTED! NATIONAL HIV TESTING DAY - FRIDAY, JUNE 27, 2008:

According to recent CDC statistics:

- There are 1.2 million people living with HIV/AIDS in the United States right now.

- 25% of these individuals do not know their status and risk transmitting the disease to others.

- HIV was the 4th leading cause of death for African American men, and the 3rd for African American women in 2004.

- In 2005, teen girls represented 43% of AIDS cases reported among 13 - 19 year-olds.

Knowing your status is vital to ending the spread of HIV/AIDS, and with advancements in medical technology testing is easier than ever before, a standard rapid-test takes just 20 minutes!

Don’t forget to forward this message to someone you care about!

Submitted by Mrs. Saundra Lucas
WMS National Health Director

4. AN OPEN LETTER TO THE BISHOPS OF THE AFRICAN METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH:

I am overwhelmed with elation to know that on my birthday (Sunday, July 6, 2008), at a worship service taking place during the forty-eighth Quadrennial Session of the General Conference of the African Methodist Episcopal Church, at The America's Center, in St.
Louis, Missouri (USA), at 10h00 a.m., in the presence of the officers, delegates and observers from across the Connection, you will posthumously Award an African heroine, Mother Charlotte Mannye Maxeke, your Quadrennial Distinguished Service Award. I read this, this morning, from a programme of Worship Services for the General Conference which was circulated by the Editor of Christian Recorder, the Official Newspaper of the African Methodist Episcopal Church, to all its Online Subscribers.

Your collective wisdom and decision promises to be historic for many of us, especially on the African Continent. Although I am not going to be at the General Conference, I am certainly going to virtually connect and be part of the worship service, if technology will allow me. In fact, I will forgo the time to study for a five hour university examination scheduled for the morning of Monday, July 7, 2008, to connect and be part of the service as it unfolds. If provided the opportunity by technology, I refuse to miss being part of that glorious moment and willing to share it with many as I set a screen in the church for them to watch that evening (South African time).

Bishops, your gesture and decision to nominate Mother Maxeke for the award is so great because to look in the direction of Africa and see Mother Maxeke means that you did not only look at her great work in bringing about the birth of the AME Church in Southern Africa but also the birth of the freedom South Africans enjoy today. She fought and died for our spiritual and physical liberation, giving us a shoulder to stand on in the world of nations.

Bishop Wilfred J. Messiah, what a glory it is that you will represent Bishops in handing the award! You represent another historic moment, remaining to be a live and active symbol of what God can do through the Church. My recollection of 2004, points out that you were the first African clergy elected on a first ballot to the Episcopal Service in the AME Church and making you the leader of the class of Bishops elected in that same year. The Bishops have deemed it not robbery that you would represent them in handing this posthumous award to a heroine in the person of Mother Maxeke, the first African women to be awarded collectively by the Bishops of the Church in the General Conference.

Bishop Adam Jefferson Richardson, Jr., my deepest and sincerest thanks go to you, in particular, for keeping your word on this and heard us cry. Your sleepless nights preparing to propose and motivate for this moment with your colleagues have not only caught the attention of your colleagues and ours but, we believe and know; it caught God's attention too. Thank you all, my beloved Bishops, for believing his belief about Mother Maxeke!

I believe that, had she been alive to receive this award, she would have urged the Church, as it gathers, to remember Zimbabwe and its people. She would be disgraced by the denigration and the debasement of the rights and dignity of the people of Zimbabwe. She would decry the empty basket Zimbabwe has become because of tyranny devastating its resources and people. She would have condemned elitism in the name of liberation which only inflicts brutality on the ordinary people of the country, intimidating its people form exercising their right to vote. She would detest the religious mask used to justify entrenchment in position of power and tyranny, finding support in biblical texts such as Romans 13:1-7. She certainly would not be blinded by the colour of the skin to seek justice for the less regarded.

Not only is Maxeke known for prophetic ministry towards tyranny, she was pastoral to the people affected by injustice. I believe she would inspire hope among the millions of people in Zimbabwe, especially children and women.

Your Pastoral and Prophetic leadership, as the General Conference proceeds would certainly make a difference to the people of Zimbabwe.
I pray you would not be silent in this regard.

We are on our knees here for you as you prepare, spend and work yourselves for the General Conference pastoral leadership. Our best wishes journey along with you until the last minutes thereof. We pray for daily renewal for the task ahead and the blessings of God over lives and ministries.

Kind regards.

Because He Lives, I am

The Rev. Teboho G. Klaas
Resident Pastor: W.M. Ndlazi Memo Temple African Methodist Episcopal Church P.O. Box 97, DIEPKLOOF 1864 Office Tel.: +27 (0)11 241 7811/2
Mobile: +27 (0)76 692 9583
tgksacc@gmail.com or tgk@sacc.org.za

5. ST. PAUL A.M.E., DOWNTOWN DETROIT, CELEBRATES LAY DAY:

St. Paul African Methodist Episcopal Church, Downtown Detroit, Michigan, celebrated their annual Lay Day on Sunday, January 27, 2008, during the morning worship service.
The theme for the day was “Refocusing Our Ministry to Serve the Present Age” (Gal 6:9-10) which is being uplifted throughout the Connectional Lay Organization.

The worship participants for the day included members of the local Lay Organization: The Call to Worship and Opening Hymn, Sis. Adrienne Jones; Invocation, Brother William Robinson, Jr.; Responsive Reading, Sister Glenda Burton; The Occasion, Sister Dorothy Tyler; Lay Litany, Sister Cheryl White; and introduction of the speaker, Brother Keith Moore.

The speaker for the day was St. Paul’s own Brother Theodore (Ted) Harris. Brother Harris is the president of the St. Paul Lay Organization. He also serves on the AME Church General Board, and is a delegate to the 2008 General Conference. Ted is known throughout the connection as an active participant in the Lay Organization and truly loves the AME church.

Brother Harris brought a powerful, relevant message. He focused on the need to reclaim our families, church, community, city, country and most of all, God. His message moved several persons to commit their lives to Christ on that day.

The St. Paul Annual Lay Day was a wonderful celebration and is thankful to its pastor, the Rev. Andre’ L. Spivey for his wonderful support and vision. It should be noted that the seed for the Connectional Lay Organization was planted at St. Paul.

The Lay Organization strives to continue to work to empower the lay of the church in the words of the lay benediction: May God bless us with the true spirit of Christianity, that we may live together, not as man over man, but as Lay persons working with God.

Sister Cheryl White, Secretary
St. Paul Lay Organization

6. SUNDAY SCHOOL CONVENTION BRINGS GOOD SUCCESS:

By: Delanda S. Johnson
Special to the News

Team Tyler District of the North Texas Conference held its two-day convention in Texarkana, Texas June 20-21, 2008. The Rev. James W. Ford is the Presiding Elder of the Team Tyler District of the North Texas Annual Conference.

With approximately 42 churches in the Tyler District, members of Johnson Chapel AME Church in Malakoff were there in attendance on Saturday, June 21st.

The Rev. John H. Holmes, Jr., pastor of Hamilton Memorial AME Church and his congregation made affords to make each guest feel welcome and at home.

The theme for this year convention “A 21st Century Church School” focused on those called to Teach, why teaching is needed in the church, why we need to study and understanding that the Word of God should be the central ingredient in every Christian’s life.

Each speaker expressed to the congregation that to be effective you must have a basic mind set in knowing your relationship with God.

The Rev. James W. Ford, Presiding Elder of the Team Tyler District of the North Texas Conference expressed that to be mind set you must teach people to know, preach to get people to go, finding your gifts.

The Rev. Mittie Muse, Sr. stated, “You can’t seek anyone out with knowledge. You must know how to act, know how to carry yourself, and let JESUS shine in you.”

The Rev. Herbert R. Denson told the parable of Jesus tells of a Sower who went out to sow his seed. Some fell by the wayside, some fell on rocks, some fell among thorns, but others fell on good ground, sprang up, and yielded a crop a hundred-fold. The seed was the Word of God and was making reference to Him and the role He is to play in our lives.

Denson said, “When we are facing temptations, trials, and battles in our lives, we too have good ground to fight on. Our defense is the Word of God.”

Rev. Ford congratulated each speaker for their excellent presentations and praised Team Tyler District for their willingness to work together in make this District a District to POWER.

Brother Marlin Roy, President of the Tyler District Lay Organization held a special meeting. The meeting consisted of discussion of the 4th Quadrennial Session of the General Conference July 4-11 in St. Louis, MO and the State Lay Elections August 2nd in Waco, Texas.

7. AME-INDIA REPORT FOR MAY 2008:

*The Rev. Sarah Peddinny and the Rev. Abraham

AME-India praises God for God's goodness and kindness during the month of May 2008. This is the hottest time of the year in this part of the world, with temperatures touching up to 48-49 degree Celsius (118.4 – 120.2 degree Fahrenheit). During this time of the year, all the schools across the country have summer holidays.

To creatively and constructively use this opportunity most of the churches conduct Vacation Bible Schools (VBS), for a period of 10 days, where children between the age 4 -15, get an opportunity to learn songs, stories and lessons from the Bible and sharpen their skills and talents to sing, act, paint etc. Apart from the children of each church, the other non-Christian children of the surrounding areas also attend these VBS.

Around 1400 children were ministered to across all the churches of AME-India during this time. The children are divided into four groups i.e., beginner, primary, junior and senior classes. The teachers are trained a week prior to the VBS on their respective syllabuses. Many children made a conscious decision to follow Jesus; the respective pastors take the responsibility to do the follow-up by way of the regular Sunday Schools. Most often the opportunity to reach the children provides an effective way for the Pastor to reach the parents of the child. We praise God for this wonderful opportunity to minister to children.

Pastor Peter Morris reports of a lady named Amuda, who used to suffer from a severe headache exactly at 12 noon every day. She had voluntarily come forward to offer her services as a teacher in the Vacation Bible School. Surprisingly for all the 14 days she never had any headache and now she claims to be healed completely. Unfortunately her husband is not a believer and he vehemently opposes of her going to the church. Please remember her in your prayers.

In another instance a lady named Divya who works as a house-maid, shared the gospel to the house-owners where she worked and this has led to the conversion of the owners of the house who now want to come to the church. Praise the Lord for this.

Pastor Morris also informs that as a result of the special prayer that he had organized for the students who were writing their exams, all of them have passed except two students. One girl named Sharanya, who scored 860 out of 1000, is unable to continue her studies, because her mother is sick and now it is Sharanya's turn to earn for the family, at the same time the mother opposes Sharanya's new found faith in Jesus Christ. Please remember her in your prayers.

Pastor Morris informs that there seven new seekers who are coming to his church, six of them are Hindus and one is from the Catholic Church. Kindly pray for their salvation.

Pastor Sam Paul reports that a man named Ratnaraj was mentally retarded due to depression and was admitted to a rehabilitation home but to of no avail, then he was brought to the church on a Sunday by his family members and when the church members prayed over him, he was healed and he regained his normal composure.

A lady named Vimala was possessed by the evil spirit, but through prayer she was liberated and now comes to the church regularly.

One, Mrs. Praveena Kumari had suddenly absconded from her family because of some family problems. On Sunday she appeared in the church and the Holy Spirit ministered to her through the message and touched her, she had a change of heart and she rejoined her family. We praise God for the wonderful way God works in the lives of people.

Pastor Samuel Ramachandran from Tranquebar and Vanagiri, requests for prayers for a place for worship. Right now they gather for worship services in a believer's house, which has been under threat from the Hindu fanatic group in the village. These enemies of the gospel do not want any Christian activity in that locality. This village is a newly organized colony for the Tsunami victims. We need to pray for a breakthrough and for a bigger place for worship.

Pastor Samuel wants to reach out to the following three villages, i.e. Pudukkupam, Neyithavasal and Poompuhar. Let us pray for open doors and opportunities for Pastor Samuel to reach the people of these villages with the message of the love of Jesus.

Pastor Samuel of Kancheepuram informs that he has found a place for worship at Chittatoor for regular Sunday worship. He also informs that the women of his congregation regularly go out in groups to distribute tracts in the neighboring villages. There are ten new comers to his church. He also informs that as a result of prayer five people who were sick were healed of their physical infirmities. This church got together and fed 20 lepers and shared the love of God in that particular area. (The lepers are stigmatized in the Indian society, they mostly survive by begging.)

Mr. Abhimanan and Mrs. Sharada request prayers for them as they are pioneering the ministry of AME-India among the Badaga tribe of the Nilgiris. They are deeply burdened to reach out to the 500,000 people of their tribe. They have started a small worship group at their residence. They have also started fasting prayer, women's meeting, cottage prayer meeting etc. They also work in hostile situation, because of the opposition from the Hindu fanatics or that region. This particular tribe urgently requires a burial ground.

We are very pleased to inform you that we had organized a Pastor's meeting on the 30th May

The ministry in 2008 is very successful. A total of 28 Pastors gathered at this meeting, including the leaders of the YPD and WMS. Some of them could not come because of other engagements. We had hired a place on rent for one day to have the Pastor's Meeting. We began at 10:00 A.M. in the morning and ended the meeting at 5:30 P.M. in the evening. After a time of praise and worship the Rev. Abraham Peddinny brought the Word of God on the theme of faith with some new outlooks which God had been prompting him to speak to the pastors for quite some time. While the sermon was going on two miracles took place; Pastor Paul Ebenezer who had applied for a job was given a job to teach in a seminary and Pastor Pradeep very unexpectedly was given a place in a seminary to do his M.Div studies. Both the testimonies coincided well with the sermon. All the participants were blessed by it.

In the afternoon session after lunch, Abraham and Sarah taught and explained about the Apostles’ Creed, the Lord's Prayer, and the discipline of maintaining accounts. We also encouraged them to strengthen the YPD and WMS. Following this the pastors came forward to share their ministries which was very encouraging, because it provided an opportunity for them to learn from each other's experiences.

The month of May had been very hectic for us because we had to visit all the churches while they were having their Vacation Bible School. Though it was very tedious and tiresome to travel during this time, (because it is peak of summer heat during this month, as mentioned above) God gave us the strength to fulfill the responsibilities given to us. We praise God for the protection and the endurance during this time.

We would also like to share with you a miracle that we have experienced recently and we give God all the glory for it. We had applied for admission for our daughter Beverly in a good school which is under Christian management, but we did not receive any reply from the school. We had visual proof from God by way of vision and scripture. Usually it is very difficult to get a seat in this school. We held on by faith on God for a miracle. The school re-opened on the 4th of June, by faith we approached the Principal who had newly taken-over the administration. She obliged and in a week's time all formalities were done and Beverly began her studies in this esteemed institution. We praise God and give God the glory for this experience.

We also humbly request you for your valuable prayers for Rev. Abraham to get a visa to the US to be able to attend the 48th Quadrennial Session of General Conference. Rev. Abraham had been denied a visa when he went for the visa interview on the 15th May 2008. We are still trusting God for a miracle as in the case of Beverly. All the doors are closed, God has to do a miracle and let us hope that God will do, for the sake of God's church.

We sincerely thank Bishop John and the Rev. Dr. Cee for all their encouragement and guidance they have given to us. They played a very major role in God's plan to extend the ministry of AME to this part of the world. We will forever be grateful to them for confiding in us and entrusting us with such a great responsibility. We thank God for Bishop John and Rev. Cee, for their courage, their boldness, their patience and their perseverance. We promise to continue to pray for their lives and their ministry.

*The Rev. Sarah Peddinny and the Rev. Abraham Peddinny, Presiding Elders, AME Church-India

Editor’s Note: Thank you for this and for all of the informative AME-India reports. All of your AME-India reports are so interesting.

8. STATE OF THE COUNTRY REPORT DELIVERED AT THE 2008 VIRGINIA ANNUAL CONFERENCE:

To Bishop Adam Jefferson Richardson, the presiding prelate of the Second Episcopal District of the African Methodist Episcopal Church, to Connie Speights Richardson, our beloved Episcopal Supervisor, Host Presiding Elder Paul Clifford Adkins and Associate Presiding Elder Chester Morris, to all the clergy and laypersons assembled, your Committee on the State of the Country presents the following report:

Nature, scope and task

Politics has rarely been of keener interest to the ordinary citizen as it is in the present moment, a moment that has the full weight and charge of history at its back. No candidate for the nation’s highest office has more electrified and galvanized the young and old alike, black and white together than Barack Obama. In the wake of so stunning an upset as that his campaign engineered in Iowa and in every subsequent state primary that he won it should not prove surprising that he should now come under blistering attack and withering criticism. In years past this committee has assayed different issues of profound consequence to our country’s people, from race to judicial punishment and from economic inequity to the scarcity of natural resources. This year’s report focuses generally on the role of religion in a free society of freethinking people, and upon the role of the black pulpit in the affairs of the nation most particularly. We do not seek to urge people along a single line of choice in the current political scene. We do, however, wish to address how media coverage, for good or ill, either discloses or misconstrues entirely the whole mission of the black church as executed by clergy. Jeremiah Wright is but symptom of the larger problem that continues to afflict the relations of church and state.

Process and data gathering

We begin by referencing the historical markers that animate black preaching specifically but black oratory more globally. This act of remembrance is central to black culture and our employment of it here is appropriate to the exercise we wish to prosecute. Whence, after all, black preaching? The answers of course extend far beyond the scope of our project and an exhaustive response cannot be forthcoming here. Still, we would cite that the earliest instances of black self-assertion under the hostile conditions of slavery sought the favor of Legba, Damballah, Yemanja and even mighty Shango himself. Memory of these and the other Orisha, yet unforgotten by the first Africans to land on these foreign shores, survived in North America for as long as it took several generations of Africans to be born in America and not in Africa. In their enthusiastic adoption of the new religion of Christianity, these slaves, men and women without a continent and without a country, determined to see in it a call to the dispossessed, the dislocated and the distressed. And as one learned scholar after another has taught us, it was in the new religion that the fierce and resolved desire for literacy came upon the benighted bondsman. To read, to read the Bible especially, signified a yearning for freedom that was never vain for it was understood even by the coarser lot of men and women that a lettered preacher enjoyed a privileged insight into the nuanced meaning of the “Word” and that it was by the light of that Word that the preacher could open a door onto a new world where all could and would be free one day. Our data is to be found in the written records of our fathers and mothers, the well-documented witness of their lives lived out under lash and sun. We recommend the reading and re-reading with fresh eyes of the works of Equiano, Jacobs and Douglass, of Sojourner and Brown.

In these sources are to be found the distinction between authentic Christianity and the barbarism of the slave auctioneer whose countrymen, with him, dared call themselves Christian, even in the moment that the yelp of children could be heard as they were torn from their mothers for sale into ‘Bama or the Carolinas. The years following the great Civil War, a war fought to extinguish slavery from the body politic and the culture of the nation, saw the coming of Reconstruction and the loss of nerve its promise required. The black masses found that they would need more than ever to depend upon those institutions they themselves could create and sustain; chief among these was the black church. Even before the war had come our church, the AME church, was born in response to God’s call but also as a protest of the servile conditions to which blacks were forced to acquiesce in the common worship of Philadelphia Methodists.

Findings

The consequence of this history has produced a militant clergy, answerable not to the princes of this earth but to God alone. Jeremiah Wright is far from unique but he is exemplary.

Our duty as black preachers is to preach the incorruptible word of God unashamedly and unapologetically. It is our task not to make friends at the expense of the gospel but to win over the soul of the nation through our call to repentance instead. The well-known distinction applies here as it always has from the time of Jonah and Isaiah. The prophet thunders and proclaims the will of God to Kings and Priests who mistake personal or national interests for divine rule. The prophet knows that this category mistake is the sin of idolatry and that the nation so convicted cannot long sustain the curse that God ordains. It is our task to preach the truth concerning what is damnable in the country’s affairs, both without and within. What is damnable about the war, damnable about prisons that abuse with cruel and unusual punishment the guilty and innocent alike, what is damnable about the practice of state sponsored torture, what is damnable concerning these and all such transgressions is the underlying presumption that state interests are God’s interests.

Goals and objectives

Our committee would propose the following goals for our nation’s people.

• The recollection of religious duty as distinct from but critical for the proper exercise of civic duty

• The advocacy of deep literacy for our people as an antidote for suspicion, rumor, idle speculation and Biblical illiteracy

• The collective embrace of the responsibilities for the earth’s dwindling resources and fragile ecosystems for “the earth is the Lord’s and the fullness thereof”

• To resolve to trust our democratic impulses for the sane resolution of our nation’s conflicts

• To make real in the world our faith that justice is for the sake of the other, even the other who we may despise

• To exercise a stewardship of our blessings so others may be blessed, particularly “the least of these” Recommendations

Under present conditions and in view of our current political climate we call for an even more aggressive strategy of preaching that makes truth abundantly evident to power. We urge the ministries of our churches here and abroad to a commitment of service that never fails the Word: to seek the lost and to comfort the comfortless. But we admonish every preacher to live by the solemn oath and vow that she or he took when she and he kissed the Bible in the moment of ordination: to take the authority to preach God’s word; not a man or a woman’s word. It will require that one preach in and out of season and it will occasion consternation and the vilification of one’s person by media as powerful as they are public. Nonetheless, we are convinced that we have been called to serve this present age and that the God who has equipped us is sovereign enough in power, wisdom and love to sustain us in the journey. Preach peace in a time of war; preach justice for the enemy and our friends; preach a high regard for the earth’s remote regions. The nation’s welfare may depend more upon our prayers than upon the man or woman we may elect. For whosoever that person proves to be, our prayers availeth much for the summer, fall, winter and spring and even for November.

If the fury of the Lord is kindled against Washington for failure to heed his call, woe unto us should the blame be ours that we had not joined the Jeremiah of this day to proclaim the wrath of God upon the obdurate of heart and the obtuse of spirit.

Respectfully submitted: The members of the Committee on the State of the Country to the One-Hundred, Forty-Second Session of the Virginia Annual Conference, the 25th day of April, in the year of our Lord, 2008

Clergy:

The Rev. Edward A. Scott
The Rev. Ruby Brown
The Rev. Debbie Bryant
The Rev. Billy Hunter
The Rev. Eboni B. Kearney
The Rev. Gwendolyn Minor
The Rev. Earl Morris
The Rev. Glenn Orr
The Rev. Willie L. White

Lay Delegates:

Barbara Ford
Kassandea Ford
Joanne Roberts
Juanita Turner
Matilda Watson
Connie Wright

9. THE 140TH SESSION ALLEGHENY SCRANTON DISTRICT CHURCH SCHOOL CONVENTION:

Submitted by Miss Shelly Brown, Allegheny Scranton District Secretary

On Thursday, June 12, 2008, The 140th Session Allegheny Scranton District Church School Convention commenced under the respected leadership of the presiding elder, the Reverend Dr. Eric L. Brown at First African Methodist Episcopal Church in Clairton, Pennsylvania, where the Reverend Dr. Judith C. Moore is the pastor.

The theme for the 2008 Church School Convention was “Serving Well in Clairton, Penna.” I Peter 4:10-1.

Following the organization for this Church School Convention with the young people participating as musicians, assistant secretary, marshals and serving on the Finance Committee and the Resolution Committee, the opening worship experience commenced with the preached word delivered by the Reverend Kenneth Burnett, pastor of Bethel A.M.E. Church, Scranton, PA. Scripture was II Timothy 4:21-22. The church has not changed and it needs help today as it did back in the day of the Apostles. We all need to “serve” Jesus while we can. To serve well, the equation is simple, which is: Pray squared plus work squared times study divided by your creativity equals building your life one day at a time.

On Friday, June 13, 2008 morning everyone in attendance either went to a local nursing home in Clairton or to the Senior Citizen Center in Clairton. We certainly “Served Well in Clairton” as we prayed, sang songs of Zion and fellowshipped with those residents. It uplifted their spirits as well as put a smile on everyone’s heart.

Everyone then went to the Clairton’s Community Park were Valerie McElvy, Allegheny Scranton District Church School Superintendent, was the moderator for the Bible Bowl. As everyone enjoyed God’s great outdoors, even though the rain did come, it did not stop us from having fun in Clairton by playing football, bat mitten, Frisbee, volleyball, jump rope, hopscotch and participating in line dancing – not to mention eating a great BBQ!

On Saturday, June 14, 2008, the closing business session commenced and First A.M.E. Church was awarded the attendance banner. Presiding Elder Emeritus Reverend Samson M. Cooper brought forth the Word for the Closing Holy Communion Worship Service. Text taken from James 2:14. We must care first about God before we can serve well and we must share our resources and love as Jesus loved us!

The 2008 Allegheny Scranton District Church School Planning Committee Members:

The Reverend Dr. Eric L. Brown
Miss Shelly Brown
Ms. Jackie Cook
Ms. Judi Goolsby
Reverend Melva Hartzog
Evangelist Elizabeth Henderson
Mrs. Valerie McElvy
Miss Renee Lyles
The Reverend Dr. Judith C. Moore
The Reverend Cheryl Ruffin
The Reverend Kary Williams, Jr.

Presiding Elder Eric L. Brown thanked everyone for their participation and commissioned everyone to continue to “Serve Well” in their church and community.

10. DISASTER ASSISTANCE INFORMATION:

Homeowners, renters, and businesses of all sizes, as well as private non-profit organizations affected by the severe storms, tornadoes and flooding beginning May 25, can get the application process started. The toll-free number is open 24 hours, and online registration is available.

To apply by phone call 1-800-621-FEMA (1-800-621-3362)

(TTY 1-800-462-7585 for the speech- or hearing-impaired) Or apply online at www.fema.gov

Important: Please have the following information available when you call:

• A phone number and a reliable alternate in case we need to call you back

• Address of the damaged property

• Brief description of damages

• Social Security number

• Insurance information (if you have insurance)

• Current mailing address

• *Bank Account Information (if you are eligible for disaster assistance, you may choose to have the assistance check deposited directly into your bank account)

Government disaster assistance covers basic needs only and will not normally compensate you for your entire loss. If you have insurance, the government may help pay for basic needs not covered under your insurance policy. Some disaster aid does not have to be paid back, while other assistance may come in the form of loans.

For information on the process, or to register online, visit http://www.fema.gov/assistance/index.shtm

Submitted by Mrs. “Jackie” Dupont Walker

11. THE GOSPEL MUSIC CHANNEL AND THE RECORDING ACADEMY(R) ANNOUNCE THE "GOSPEL MUSIC HERITAGE MONTH" INITIATIVE CELEBRATING GOSPEL MUSIC'S GREAT LEGACY:

WASHINGTON, DC June 18, 2008 - The Gospel Music Channel television network has joined with Senator Blanche L. Lincoln (D-Ark.), Senator Kay Bailey Hutchison (R-Texas), Senator Patrick Leahy (D-Vermont), Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee (D-Texas), Congresswoman Mary Bono Mack (R-Calif.), and The Recording Academy(r) to launch the "Gospel Music Heritage Month" initiative. The legislation in the House of Representatives (H.Con. Res. 370) and the Senate (S. Res. 595) designates September 2008 as "Gospel Music Heritage Month," honoring gospel music for its valuable long-standing contributions to American culture. The initiative was created by the Gospel Music Channel, the country's first and only 24/7 television network devoted to all forms of Gospel/Christian music. This effort was lead by Charley Humbard and Alvin Williams of Gospel Music Channel along with Gospel Music Advocate Carl Davis. They worked tirelessly with the members of Congress to get this initiative passed in both Chambers. The initiative was publicly unveiled at The Recording Academy's GRAMMYs on the Hill event at the U.S. Capitol on June 18.

"Gospel Music is a cornerstone of the American musical tradition and has grown beyond its established audience to achieve pop-culture and historical relevance across the globe," said Lincoln. "My home state of Arkansas has a rich history in gospel music and I am proud to honor this tradition that has touched audiences around the world."

"In addition to its contribution to American music, gospel music has provided the cultural and musical backdrop across all of mainstream media, including art, books, television and motion pictures. It is infused in the DNA of our entire society and a month to recognize its importance and vast contributions to our country is long overdue," commented Hutchison.

"Gospel music is an important American legacy and continues to play a significant role of the lives of millions. It is appropriate to honor the countless contributions Gospel music has made to our society," said Leahy.

"Gospel music is an historical American art form that has spanned hundreds of generations and both inspires and entertains across racial, ethnic, religious, and geographic boundaries. We must officially recognize the great contributions to American culture that have derived from the rich heritage of gospel music and its artists," said Jackson-Lee.

"By surpassing culturally constructed boundaries, gospel music has emerged as the musical thread uniting the fabric of America and is more popular than ever. It is important that we recognize and celebrate the vital role that gospel music and all its many styles have played in shaping music history," commented Bono Mack.

"This is the opportunity for the millions of gospel/Christian music fans to have their own national month to honor and celebrate the rich heritage of their music," said Charles Humbard, Founder and President of the Gospel Music Channel. "We thank Senators Lincoln, Hutchison and Leahy, and Representatives Jackson-Lee and Bono Mack, for their efforts and The Recording Academy for its partnership. We look forward to celebrating 'Gospel Music Heritage Month' in September."

"A key mission of The Recording Academy is recognizing musical excellence, advocating for the well-being of music makers and ensuring music remains an indelible part of our culture," said Neil Portnow, President/CEO of The Recording Academy. "To have gospel music nationally recognized in the month of September pays great homage to this influential and inspirational genre. It's an honor to make this announcement at our GRAMMYs on the Hill event in our nation's capital."

Those interested in "Gospel Music Heritage Month" resolution should visit:

www.GospelMusicChannel.com

Gospel Music Channel (GMC) is the nation's first and only 24/7 television network devoted to the uplifting, inspiring and diverse music that is Gospel/Christian music. Gospel Music Channel is the fastest-growing network in television today and can be seen in nearly 40 million homes on various cable systems around the country and on DIRECTV.

Established in 1957, The Recording Academy is an organization of musicians, producers, engineers and recording professionals that is dedicated to improving the cultural condition and quality of life for music and its makers. Internationally known for the GRAMMY Awards - the preeminent peer-recognized award for musical excellence and the most credible brand in music - The Recording Academy is responsible for groundbreaking professional development, cultural enrichment, advocacy, education and human services programs. In its 50th year, The Academy continues to focus on its mission of recognizing musical excellence, advocating for the well-being of music makers and ensuring music remains an indelible part of our culture. For more information about The Academy, please visit www.grammy.com.

12. (UMC) LEADERS FOCUS ON BACKBONE OF DENOMINATION: SMALL CHURCHES:

Jun. 24, 2008

By Linda Green*

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (UMNS)--The United Methodist Church must focus on small and rural churches and not simply go where the wealthy are to build new churches, says a small membership church leader.

"Small churches are the backbone of the denomination," said the Rev. Julia Wallace, director of ministries with small membership churches at the United Methodist Board of Discipleship.

"It is no accident that we have a church every three to five miles. At that time we wanted to get the church as close to people as we can. Our job now is keep church as close to the people as we can," she said.

Today, 76 percent of the denomination's congregations are small churches, which are defined as those having 200 or fewer members and fewer than 120 in worship.

More than 40 people working with small churches across the country participated in three June 2 telephone-conference conversations to learn about revitalizing small churches and ministries from the Rev. Terence Corkin, a small church expert and top executive of the Uniting Church in Australia. The pastors, district superintendents, directors of connectional ministries, lay ministers and community developers also discussed emerging issues and challenges facing small churches.

"It is important that we have conversations with people who are trying innovative things and are learning leaders," Wallace said. Issues like deployment of pastors, budgetary constraints; the use of lay pastors versus ordained pastors, lay ministers and licensed local pastors are issues that the Australian church overcame to be effective in the towns across the countryside.

"I see the Uniting Church of Australia as being 10 years ahead of the curve from us because it is already dealing with some of the dire issues that we will be facing," she said.

Differences between countries

Corkin, who served for 20 years in rural ministries before he became top executive in the Uniting Church eight years ago, described the similarities and differences between rural churches in the United States and in Australia and the changes small churches are encountering.

"We have significant experience of congregations that are self-supporting with a very modest amount of external relationship with the wider church in ministry personnel," he said. The congregations are "stand alone" and are linked together in various ways for mutual support and resource sharing and grouped into about 30 presbyteries, comparable to districts in The United Methodist Church.

Corkin described the Uniting Church as a union church formed in 1977 with Congregational, Methodists and Presbyterian churches. "It is a church that understands itself as a national church in that it has a sense of place and presence across every part of Australia," he said.

The church's presence is expressed through indigenous ministries, remote area patrol ministries and community services and through the nearly 1,800 congregations and 1,500 ministers in active service. Some of the congregations are linked, with one minister serving more than one locale.

In many rural areas in the United States and in Australia, there is a drift toward reduction of services and diminishing capital, aging people and increasing poverty which impact the ability to sustain congregational life, he said. Rural areas also have itinerant populations of people who come in to farm the lands, work in the mines or other industries and then leave.

"I do think a characteristic of small churches at this present time is their morale is not very high," Corkin said. "They have a memory of being bigger or something else. Some have memory of another time and are conscious of the changed circumstances in which they live."

Measures of viability

One of the biggest issues facing small churches is money. Many lack the resources to pay clergy salary, building maintenance, insurance premiums and other operating costs, noted the teleconference participants. Some churches already know they will not be able to pay the heating bills this winter and will not be able to open their doors.

In The United Methodist Church in the United States, self-sufficiency and financial vitality are sometimes measures of a congregation's viability.

Viability, Corkin said, is not measured by a congregation's capacity to raise enough funds to pay a minister. While church officials may use it as a strategy to discontinue churches, "it is not one that we believe is an adequate indicator of vitality," he said.

There are numerous churches that cannot pay a salary but are well-connected to one another and "are very effective in bearing witness to the hope that is within them and inviting people to respond to the Christ that they know," Corkin said.

The faithfulness of the church should be the measure, he said. The faithfulness is evident in how the church works in partnership with God and participates in the mission of God, he said.

Assets for evangelism

The reality in the United States and in Australia is that churches are different communities even if they are only 20 kilometers or 12 miles from each other. The churches, he said, regardless of where they are located, provide different missional opportunities.

"Rural congregations are among our greatest assets for evangelical and missional renewal among the people called Methodist in the 21st century," said Bishop Kenneth Carder during a rural life celebration at the 2008 General Conference.

Corkin agrees. "God has raised people up to call his own in these communities and they are going to be there whether there is a roll of members or if we are prepared to support a building continuing to be there."

"We don't make the church," he said. The church exists because of the saving work of Jesus Christ to confront and call people into new life and those people are called into new life in community.

Wallace spoke of a church of eight people who feed 150 every day. The church's feeding ministry launched a partnership with others and caused all involved to think about ministry in new and different ways. "They have learned to be that community which pulls other faithful people together to be in relationship with the homeless.

"They had to figure it out. I think people today want to figure out how to be church," she said. "People want opportunities for ministry."

Using all gifts

The use of teams for ministry is critical in revitalizing small churches in the future, Wallace said. "We must move away from being dependent on one person, whether that is a clergy pastor or a lay pastor," she said. "We must begin to celebrate being the whole people of God in that place and use all of the gifts we have been given. The days of clergy dependency are forcing us to now rethink of the way we are going to be a church."

Revitalizing existing churches and planting new ones is the focus of Path One, an organized strategy team on congregational development under the United Methodist Board of Discipleship.

Path One seeks to help the church start 650 congregations by 2012. The emphasis on church growth aims to return the denomination to its evangelistic heritage of starting a new congregation every day.

"The time for revitalization is a reality," Wallace said. "We happen to have everything we need."

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

*Used with the permission of the United Methodist News Service

13. CLERGY EFFECTIVENESS STUDY WILL ENHANCE TRAINING, SAYS LEADER:
Jun. 24, 2008

A UMNS Report
By Vicki Brown*

An analysis of what makes an effective pastor will enhance training provided this summer to United Methodist annual (regional) conferences.

The Rev. Sharon Rubey, director of candidacy and conference relations at the United Methodist Board of Higher Education and Ministry, said the study would provide useful information for those who work with candidates for ministry, assign pastors to churches, and do clergy supervision.

Richard P. DeShon, a psychology professor at Michigan State University in East Lansing, Mich., used focus groups to conduct the study. "The breadth of tasks performed by local church pastors, coupled with the rapid switching between tasks and roles prevalent in this job is unique," he reported. "It is remarkable how complex this job is."

The next step, according to Rubey, is to develop and distribute a survey about the underlying behaviors associated with effective ministry "to learn more about the amount of time and the value that is given to each behavior."

"Along with that, we hope to survey congregations… to find out the kinds of knowledge, skills, abilities, and personal characteristics (that) are desired in pastoral leadership," she added. "Together, these studies will offer guidelines that can be helpful in matching pastors with congregations."

The study, completed last December, used focus groups of pastors who were identified as "high performing pastors" by boards of ordained ministry and district superintendents. The 20 pastors chosen were diverse in gender, racial/ethnic background and age and represented a variety of ministry settings and different sizes of churches.

Tasks contribute to effectiveness

A set of 13 clusters or groups of tasks that contribute to effective performance emerged from the discussions. Those are: administration, caregiving, rituals and sacraments, facility construction, communication, relationship building, evangelism, fellowship, management, preaching and public worship, self-development, United Methodist connectional service, and other development, such as performing activities to teach, train or mentor individuals and groups to improve their knowledge and skills.

"Every pastor is not going to be able to perform all these tasks well," DeShon said. He pointed out that "the people who are effective at very big churches could out-compete CEOs of Fortune 500 companies. The problem is there aren't that many of them."

The Rev. Tom Pace, senior pastor of St. Luke's United Methodist Church in Houston and focus group participant, believes there is one crucial element an effective pastor must have. "You have to know how to learn, and you have to like doing it," he said.

"I also think pastors have to be self-assured enough that they can be psychologically grounded," he said. "There is no work other than politics or acting where it is so much about whether people like you."

When he first came to St. Luke's - a church with about 2,000 weekly attendance at worship - some people left simply because he wasn't the former pastor, and they did not like him as much, Pace acknowledged.

Scope of responsibilities

The Rev. Sara Thompson-Tweedy, pastor of The Federated Church of Kerhonkson in Kerhonkson, N.Y., said she was stunned at the scope of the tasks identified by the focus groups.

"But really, it's the work of the church. It falls on clergy to do it or see that it gets done, but there is no way one person could do everything," she said. The church she pastors has about 100 members in a community of 2,000.

Both Thompson-Tweedy and Pace said churches teach their pastor things they need to know.

"When I went into ministry, I would have thought care giving was my strength," she explained. But now, she believes her particular strengths are preaching and public worship. "I feel so alive when I preach, teach, and lead worship."

Tweedy-Thompson said good pastors must learn to delegate and be willing to let people fail gracefully. "If you stand over someone with your foot in their chest, they are going to do nothing or get sick of you and leave. You may discover you've delegated to the wrong person. If they fail, you need to pat them on them on the back and say that's fine."

DeShon said all of the pastors in the focus groups talked about the importance of a strong call and also about finding a balance between life and being clergy.

In addition to a call, DeShon noted it was clear that good pastors have to be adaptable, intelligent, and have good social skills. "You must have a strong sense of call and nothing can substitute for that," he said. "A lot of other things you can work on."

To read the study, visit www.gbhem.org and click on Boards of Ordained Ministry.

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

*Used with the permission of the United Methodist News Service

14. EPISCOPACY AND CLERGY CONGRATULATORY NOTICES:

- Presiding Elder, the Rev. Malcolm L. Eve and Mrs. Elvia Y. Eve of the Bermuda Annual Conference will be celebrating their 50th (Golden Wedding Anniversary) on Thursday, June 26, 2008. The occasion will be celebrated in a formal setting at St. Paul Centennial Hall on Court Street, Hamilton, Bermuda.

Congratulations can be sent to:
Presiding Elder & Mrs. Malcolm L. Eve
P.O. Box FL 631
Flatts, FL BX
Bermuda

Or e-mailed to:

bdaannualconference@logic.bm (Presiding Elder Malcolm L. Eve)

eyeve@logic.bm (Mrs. Elvia Y. Eve)

- Dr. Louis Charles Harvey, PhD. Presiding Elder, Potomac District, Washington Annual Conference and Mrs. Sharon Jefferson of Dayton, Ohio wish to announce the graduation of their daughter Melanee Charles Harvey from Spelman College, Atlanta, GA.

Ms. Harvey graduated Magna Cum Laude and was awarded a BA Degree in Art History. She has been accepted into the MA/PhD programs in Art History at Boston University and will matriculate this fall.

Congratulations can be sent to: PresidingelderH@aol.com or Louischarles873@aol.com

- Jakaila Chanel Langston, the youngest daughter of Pastor and Mrs. Kelvin T. Calloway (Second A.M.E. Church - Los Angeles, California) graduated with honors from Gov. John Rogers High School on June 14, 2008.

- Jakaila will attend Tennessee Sate University in Nashville, Tennessee where she will major in Business. She received the Elizabeth Wesley Youth Merit Incentive Award.

Congratulations can be sent to: jfcalloway@yahoo.com

- Wesley Alfred Stovall, the youngest child of the Rev. V. Cora Stovall, Pastor of Mt. View AME Church in Winchester, Tennessee is a recent graduate of Ooltewah High School in Ooltewah, Tennessee. He plans to attend The University of Memphis in Memphis, Tennessee.

Congratulations can be sent to: funnyeyez@hotmail.com

- Christina Noelle Williams, the daughter of the Reverend Darryl and Laurelyn Williams, pastor and First Lady of St Mark A.M.E. Church - Milwaukee, Wisconsin, graduated from the Rufus King High School in Milwaukee. Christina will be attending Central State University in the fall.

Congratulations can be sent to: dwilliams@stmarkame-milwaukee.com

15. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

Nathaniel Manuel Mills, the son of the Rev. Anthony Mills and Mrs. Geneva Craft will be laid to rest on June 28, 2008. Rev. Mills is the pastor of Greater Hayes A.M.E. Church, Oakdale, LA - Central Louisiana Conference of the 8th Episcopal District. Please pray for Rev. Mills, Mrs. Craft and the family.

The funeral arrangements are as follows:

Visitation / Viewing, Friday, June 27, 2008 - 5:00 - 8:00 p.m.
Funeral Service will be held on Saturday, June 28, 2008 - 11:00 a.m.

Both services will be held at:
Mt. Olive A. M. E. Church
2457 Second Street
Slidell, Louisiana
(985) 641-4960
Rev. Cedell Raggs, Pastor

Services are entrusted to:
Doyle Funeral Home
2430 4th Street
Slidell, LA 70458
(985) 290-3768

Condolences may be sent to:
Rev. Anthony Mills
11035 Ericson Avenue
Baton Rouge, LA 70816
(225) 295-8014

Or to:

Mrs. Geneva Craft
1731 McArthur
Slidell, LA 70458

16. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

The 8TH Episcopal District sadly announces the death of Justice Revius O. Ortique (former member of the Board of Incorporators of the African Methodist Episcopal Church, now known as Trustees of the African Methodist Episcopal Church). He was a member of St. Luke AME Church in New Orleans, Central New Orleans-Bogalusa District, 8th Episcopal District A.M.E. Church where he served as a member of the Trustee Board until his death. Revius Ortique Jr., who passed on Sunday, June 22, 2008 at the age of 84, was the embodiment of the progress ushered in by the civil rights movement of the 1950s and '60s.

He was New Orleans' first African-American Civil District Court judge, the first African-American chief judge of that court and the first black member of the Louisiana State Bar Association's House of Delegates. His ultimate career achievement, though, was election in 1992 as the first African-American member of the Louisiana Supreme Court.

He previously had served five terms as president of the Urban League of Greater New Orleans and three terms as president of the Community Relations Council. During those years he helped bring about the peaceful desegregation of lunch counters, bathrooms and other public facilities in New Orleans in the early 1960s. Longtime associates described Justice Ortique as fearless, meticulous and gentlemanly. That combination of qualities served him well in his work as a civil rights lawyer, a judge and a community leader.

Justice Ortique achieved great personal success in his chosen career and was called into service by five U.S. presidents. But his most important accomplishment was to help transform his hometown into a more tolerant and inclusive city.

The 1st viewing will be Thursday, June 26, 2008, 4:00 - 7:00 pm in the Will W. Alexander Library:

Dillard University
2601 Gentilly Boulevard
New Orleans, LA 70122

2nd Viewing will be Friday, June 27, 2008, 7:30 - 9:45 a.m. and Funeral Service begins 10:00:
Franklin Avenue Baptist Church
2515 Franklin Avenue
New Orleans, LA 70122

Rhodes Funeral Home in charge
7411 Chef Menteur Highway
New Orleans, LA 70126
(504) 241-5556

Condolences may be sent to:

Mrs. Miriam Ortigue
2230 North Vega Drive
Baton Rouge, LA 70815
(225) 216-7311

17. 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

18. 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 (6/19/08)

The Right Rev. 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 EDITORIAL – WE NEED TO KEEP SOME THINGS IN THE AME CHURCH AND OTHER THINGS NEED TO BE KEPT OUT:

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

The African Methodist Episcopal Church is a connectional Church and as such, there are some characteristics and liturgical forms that should be evident in every AME Church all over the world. One of the positive things about connectional churches, whether it be, the United Methodist, one of the Lutheran bodies, the Episcopal Church, one of the Presbyterian Church bodies, or the Roman Catholic Church, is that no member of a connectional denomination should feel alienated when he or she visits a member church; no matter where in the world he or she might be worshipping; no matter in what language, or culture.

When I was in South Africa, and particularly in Zimbabwe, when parts of the worship services were in one of the African languages, though I could not speak the language, I was familiar with the order of worship and felt like an active participant in the worship services. When the worshippers and the ministers led in the AME Call to Worship, the Decalogue and the Doxology, I felt right at home; even though I didn’t know the language, I could follow the ritual. I resonated with what was going on and felt pride in being a member of the African Methodist Episcopal Church, a connectional Church.

On the other hand, I have heard about, and have been a part of one or two AME worship services in the United States where everyone spoke English; where I felt uncomfortable because the AME order of worship had no semblance of an AME worship service. The order of worship had almost completely been dismantled.

Shortly after one of those experiences, I preached at a Baptist Church that felt more like an AME Church than the AME Church I attended with its dismantled AME order of worship. After the service, suspecting that the pastor had been a former AME, I asked him if he had ever been a member AME Church.

He responded that he had never been a member or a minister in the AME Church. He went on to explain that he had visited AME Churches and had found the liturgy to be so beautiful that he incorporated some of the AME liturgy in his Baptist church worship service; and his members seemed to love it. He went on to tell me something that I did not want to hear; he shared that he had quite a few members who used to be AME.

At that point, I decided that I had better leave well enough alone, so I didn’t ask him about the chancel rail (kneeling rail). My mother taught me that if you were not prepared for the answer, don’t ask the question.

But at that point, curiosity got the best of me and I strayed away from my mother’s teaching about asking questions in which I wasn’t prepared for the answer. I asked the question and, and sure enough, the pastor did not give me the answer that I was hoping to hear.

The question that I asked the pastor was about the chancel rail with the kneelers. His broad smile made me feel like I had walked into a trap.

He explained that indeed his Baptist congregation enjoyed the communion liturgy; he reached on the pulpit under a hymnal and a Bible and pulled out the 1984 edition of The Book of Worship of the African Methodist Episcopal Church prepared by The Commission on Worship and Liturgy co-chaired by Bishop Vinton R. Anderson and Bishop Frederick H. Talbot and explained that he didn’t use the entire liturgy, but he used a lot of the Communion liturgy. He emphasized again, how beautiful the AME liturgy was and how much his members enjoyed the communion liturgy. He told me that, while, most of his members took communion in the pews, a lot of members liked to come to the altar to take communion; so he gave them the option of taking communion in the pews or at the altar.

I wanted to ask him if he baptized infants, but I didn’t go there, because I remember a Baptist pastor in Alaska who said that he used water when dedicating infants because the people liked that fact that he used water in his baby dedication services, so I left the baptism question alone.

Now of course, in a Baptist church or in other fellowships where each congregation is seen as an autonomous entity, pastors can make liturgical decisions and changes as long as the church leaders and the members of the congregation do not object to the changes.

In instances of AME Churches where large parts of the liturgy have been, or are being dismantled, there are unsettling undercurrents of dissatisfaction among clergy and the laity. There are perceptions that some pastors have made liturgical decisions independent of the “connectivity” of the AME Church and have ignored the concerns of the laity in the local church.

I am sure that there are some pastors and laity who feel that the AME Church worship liturgy needs to be modified and others who feel that AME worship need to be pentecostalized and made more upbeat.

Other mainline denominations are going through similar experiences involving worship liturgy.

William H. Willimon in his book, A Guide to Preaching and Leading Worship reminds us, “The Power of ritual is in its predictability and sameness. Ritual keeps calling and re-calling us to be attentive to what is important. Rituals must not be thoughtlessly tampered with, except for the best of reasons.” Willimon goes on to caution that liturgical changes should not be the pastor’s discretion alone, but that the laity should be included in evaluating proposed liturgical worship changes; in leadership studies it is called “getting ownership.”

I am concerned when AME worship ceases to be AME worship; when pastors and worship services mimic televangelists and mega-church preachers.

Some of our worship services may be in need of some tweaking, but I am concerned when I hear or see AME liturgy dismantled because I don’t believe most of us have the necessary historical, theological, liturgical skills or backgrounds to dismantle the liturgical foundations laid by Martin Luther, John Wesley, Richard Allen, Morris Brown, Edward Waters, William Paul Quinn, Daniel Payne, Vinton Anderson, Frederick Talbot and others. I am concerned that we have some preachers who are taking down walls without knowing why they were put up. In combat the saying is, “don’t burn down the bridges behind you because you may have to use those same bridges again.”

I wish more pastors would appreciate dynamic AME worship, and we have a lot of them. The call to worship, the Decalogue, the scripture, and other parts of the worship service are not boring and do not turn a lot of people off.

What turns people off is the lackadaisical presentation of the worship liturgy. I have seen folks shout over the Decalogue when it is done correctly, read with clarity and conviction. I have seen supposedly dead hymns liven up a worship service when a spirit-filled choir sings the hymn with expression and correct breathing techniques. I have seen creative AME pastors who can dynamically lead a worship service and “preach the horns off of a billy-goat.” I have heard prayers that have lifted the rafters, brought tears and healing to waiting congregations. The AME Church has the best preachers in the world. We have the most dynamic worship when we do worship right.

But, on the other “side of the coin,” we have some pastors who are tired, others who have not kept their liturgy or worship skills honed and sharpened; pastors who have stopped preparing sermons and who rehash the same old messages over and over again. We have choirs that don’t practice, youth and young people who can’t recite their Easter and Christmas pieces from memory, but have to read them; church officers who are not persons of prayer and who know little about the Bible. I am dismayed when I see church officers who have trouble finding a biblical text; and even more dismayed when I see pastors who have a difficult time finding the biblical books of, say, Joel, Habakkuk or one of the more obscure books of the Bible.

The dilemma is not the liturgy, the problem is the lack of leadership and the lack of preparation of the persons who lead worship; and that starts with the pastor, the stewards, trustees, the choir, and the person who lazily reads the announcements and extends a cold welcome to the visitors. It begins with the ushers who fail to greet people at the door, the folks frowning in the pews, the lack of cleanliness of the facility, and the lack of enthusiasm of the pastor; it all begins and ends with the pastor who is the appointed leader of the flock, and that is a big job, not a part-time job, but a fulltime job.

Have you ever noticed ushers folding bulletins as the people are entering the sanctuary? What does that tell you about preparation for worship? Have you ever noticed the choir trying to select the songs they are going to sing after they have been called upon to sing? What does that tell you about preparation for worship? What about the announcement period that turns into a church meeting?

The African Methodist Episcopal Church has the liturgy in place and it allows for the work of the Holy Spirit, which sometimes precipitates change. We, AMEs are flexible, but we like order and we love the connection and the fellowship.

The Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir has a song and part of the words sung are, “there’s gonna be a Revival in the land.” America needs a revival. The AME Church needs a revival and it is my hope that the General Conference All to Prayer will be the start of a true AME Revival. We have a rich history, rich traditions, and rich resources in our churches and if we work under the unction of the Holy Spirit, we can have a revival that will transform and reenergize the African Methodist Episcopal Church; and the prayer for each of us should be, “Let the revival begin in me.”

We need to keep the things that build up and keep out those things that tear down.

2. RESPONSE TO EDITORIAL AND OTHER ISSUES:

To the Editor:

Re: The AME Church has a Leadership Problem

I enjoyed your editorial in the print edition of The Christian Recorder concerning the leadership in the A.M.E. Church. When you have good leadership and good follower-ship, things will begin to move in a positive way. In some of the smaller local churches, oftentimes pastors have to put members who are not leaders in leadership positions of which they are not qualified. The pastor then has the responsibility to teach them to become good leaders; if they are willing to learn and/or be taught. It is a hard task for the small churches, but we as pastors cannot give up.

Just love to read your editorials and articles. I enjoyed reading your background and qualifications/accomplishments. Knowing that you are an army veteran, I can understand your concern about leadership.

Pastor Jimmy D. Howard

3. THE OFFICIAL AGENDA FOR THE 2008 GENERAL CONFERENCE:

Click on

http://www.ame-church.com/news-and-events/general-conference/gen-conf_agenda.pdf

4. CANDIDATES ROSTER FOR THE FORTY-EIGHTH QUADRENNIAL SESSION OF THE GENERAL CONFERENCE OF THE AFRICAN METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH THAT WILL BE HELD AT THE AMERICA’S CENTER, ST. LOUIS, MISSOURI, JULY 4-11, 2008:

CANDIDATES ROSTER

GENERAL SECRETARY
(Vote for one)
1. Clement W. Fugh

CHAIR OF EPISCOPAL COMMITTEE
(Vote for one)
2. Harold R. Mayberry

SECRETARY-TREASURER, SUNDAY SCHOOL UNION
(Vote for one)
3. Johnny Barbour, Jr.

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, GLOBAL WITNESS & MINISTRY
(Vote for one)
4. George F. Flowers

DIRECTOR, CHURCH GROWTH & DEVELOPMENT
(Vote for one)
5. Charles C. McLamore
6. Vernal E. Simms Sr.
7. James C. Wade

SECRETARY-TREASURER, CHRISTIAN EDUCATION
(Vote for one)
8. Edrena Houston Brown
9. Daryl B. Ingram

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, ANNUITY INVESTMENTS AND INSURANCE
(Vote for one)
10. Jerome V. Harris

HISTORIOGRAPHER/DIRECTOR OF RESEARCH AND SCHOLARSHIP/EDITOR THE A.M.E. CHURCH REVIEW
(Vote for one)
11. Adonis Carolus Booyse
12. Dennis C. Dickerson
13. Mark Kelly Tyler

TREASURER/CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER
(Vote for one)
14. Richard Allen Lewis

EDITOR, THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER
(Vote for one)
15. Calvin H. Sydnor III

JUDICIAL COUNCIL
(Vote for four Lay; two Clergy)

LAY CANDIDATES
(Vote for four lay)
24. Benjamin F. Edwards
25. Priscilla J. Green
26. Patricia M. Mayberry
27. Rosemarie Rhodes-Miller

CLERGY
(Vote for two)
28. Franklin E. Breckenridge
29. Francine E. Brookins
30. Glenda F. Hodges
31. Granville W. Reed, III

JUDICIAL COUNCIL ALTERNATES

LAY*

CLERGY
32. James T. Golden

*Note: “The term of office for the Judicial Council Alternate elected in 2004 expires in 2012. No other applications were submitted for Lay Alternate for the 2008 General Conference.”

BISHOP
(Vote for )
33. Wayne B. Anthony
34. James E. Arnell
35. Ronnie E. Brailsford Sr.
36. Ronald Eugene Braxton
37. Diane L. Burl.
38. Kelvin T. Calloway
39. Philip R. Cousin Jr.
40. Louis A. C. Davis
41. Ann Lightner Fuller
42. Debora F. Grant
43. Earl G. Harris
44. Larry Stanwyck Hinton.
45. Reginald T. Jackson
46. Jeffrey R. Leath
47. Andrew B. Lewin
48. Julius H. McAllister Sr.
49. Terence L. Mayes Sr.
50. Themba Abram Mbambo
51. Goodfellow Mugala
52. Willie Ray Norful Sr.
53. Allen Wayne Parrot
54. Wesley I. Reid.
55. Harry L. Seawright
56. Daniel L. Simmons Sr.
57. Leodis Strong
58. Nelson Dan Taylor
59. George W. Tyler
60. Albert D. Tyson III
61. Isaiah J. Waddy
62. John F. White
63. Stafford Wicker

5. THE 2008 GENERAL CONFERENCE STREET MINISTRY SPONSORED BY THE DEPARTMENT OF CHURCH GROWTH AND DEVELOPMENT:

The Dr. James C. Wade of the Department of Church Growth & Development of the African Methodist Episcopal Church is seeking persons to help do Street Ministry on July 3 & 5, 2008 in the city of St. Louis.

There will be a training session prior to going out into the street. Anyone wishing to be a part of this great event of Evangelism should send their name, address, church membership, pastor’s name and district by email to Dr. Wade ameharvest@bellsouth.net

If you need any further information, please feel free to call the Department at (901) 523 - 2702/523- 2777.

6. AME CHURCH ICON, BISHOP FRANK CURTIS CUMMINGS PREACHES FOR MEN DAY PROGRAM:

*The Rev. Dr. Glenell M. Lee-Pruitt

On Sunday, June 8, 2008, all roads in the middle of the Mississippi Delta led to Solomon Chapel AME Church in Cleveland, Mississippi under the pastoral ministry of the Rev. Glenell M. Lee-Pruitt. On this Sons of Allen Men’s Day, one of the AME Church’s icons delivered the message, retired Bishop, the Right Rev. Frank Curtis Cummings.

The Sons of Allen theme was, “Christian Men Standing Steadfast in their Faith.” Bishop Cummings preached out of his heart and stirred the capacity-filled sanctuary of men (and women) by reminding them of who they are, as African men, and how faith has sustained African people throughout the ages. He further enjoined them to take a stand in this ripe political environment and to mentor young men who are waiting for Christian men to take a stand in their community; on their jobs, and in their churches.

During this program the Sons of Allen recognized men in the Greenville-Vicksburg District of the Central North Mississippi Conference of the Eighth Episcopal District who were considered “Outstanding AME Men.”

Those recognized were Mr. Leo Marshall from Ball Temple AME Church, Greenville, Mississippi; Mr. Ronnie Young from St. Matthew AME Church, Greenville, Mississippi; Mr. Johnny Dumas, Jr., from Bethel AME Church in Duncan, Mississippi; Mr. Hermon Johnson from Bethel AME Church in Mound Bayou, Mississippi; Mr. Michael Jones of St. James AME Church in Leland, Mississippi; and Mr. Walter Robinson as a community leader.

The pastor, the Rev. Glenell Lee-Pruitt also took this occasion to recognize outstanding AME ministers who had pioneered the way in the Greenville-Vicksburg District. The recognized ministers were the Rev. E. C. Taylor, immediate past pastor of Solomon Chapel and the Rev. Walter Christian, superannuate from Travis Chapel AME Church in Vicksburg, Mississippi. Bishop Cummings was also presented a plaque recognizing him as an “AME Church Icon.”

Present to welcome Bishop and Angel Cummings back to Mississippi were Presiding Elder James Holmes of the Greenville-Vicksburg District; Presiding Elder George Tyler of the Jackson-Meridian District, who is also a candidate for Bishop; the Rev. F. C. Stallworth, president of the Eighth District Sons of Allen; the Rev. Cory Watts, president of the Central North Conference Sons of Allen; the Rev. Walter Wilson of St. Matthew; the Rev. John Arnold of St. James; the Rev. M. C. Jordan of Bethel-Duncan; the Rev. Ruby Mays of New Zion and Mt. Arratt; and the Rev. Horace McKay of the East Mississippi Conference. Also present were component heads from the WMS, LAY and YPD.

Along with sponsoring men’s day, the Sons of Allen of Solomon Chapel also sponsor an ACT Ministry. This ministry pays for high school athletes to take the college entrance exam twice a year beginning in the 10th grade until graduation.

Glenell M. Lee-Pruitt served as Connectional YPD President from 1983-1987. Bishop and Mrs. Cummings served in the Eighth District from 1976-1984.

*The Rev. Dr. Glenell M. Lee-Pruitt is the pastor of Solomon Chapel AME Church in Cleveland, Mississippi

7. LOCAL BAR SUES LOCAL CHURCH:

Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III
Dr. Joseph Darby

Dr. Joseph Darby shared a story with me that I thought was an attempt at humor, but the story made a great point.

Here is the story that started the conversation:

In a small Texas town, a new bar/tavern started a building to open up their business. A local church started a campaign of petitions and prayers to block the bar from opening.

Work progressed, however right up till the week before opening, when a lightning strike hit the bar and it burned to the ground.

The church folks were rather smug in their outlook after that, till the bar owner sued the church on the grounds that the church was ultimately responsible for the demise of his building, either through direct or indirect actions or means. The church vehemently denied all responsibility or any connection to the building's demise in its reply to the court.

As the case made its way into court, the judge looked over the paperwork. At the hearing he commented, 'I don't know how I'm going to decide this, but as it appears from the paperwork, we have a bar owner who believes in the power of prayer, and an entire church congregation that doesn't.'

My response to the story, which I took to be a joke:

“I wonder how many times local churches comes across as fellowships that don’t believe in prayer; even so with the Connectional AME Church.”

Dr. Joseph Darby Responded:

In response to your question, “I wonder how many times local churches come across as fellowships that don’t believe in prayer…”

Probably way too much. My pastoral experience is that when it comes to strong traditional programs and hopefully innovative new programs, those that revolve around prayer are the hardest to kick start and the hardest to maintain. We seem to get charged up about everything except simple but powerful prayer. As we head to Saint Louis, there's plenty of political posturing - which will get heavier when we get there - but the Fifth District prayer effort is the only one I know if that targets the General Conference.

Part of that in our tradition may be the way that we "traditionally" practice prayer. In the south, it's usually the weekly prayer and testimony meeting or the pre-worship prayer and praise time, when older, experienced members do long - and sometimes timeworn - public prayers and testimony. Some of them do so with just a hint of arrogance that says to those with less experience who might join in, "Don't do it because you can't pray like I pray!"

It would be wonderful if our Zion would strategically and humbly look at the way that we practice prayer and make it as much a priority as the budget and pastoral assignments - it might make a difference! It might also lead to some models for prayer beyond our traditional models that raise the comfort level for participation by new Christians.

Two "prayer stories" have stuck with me on my own journey.

The first was when I was in seminary. The very popular homiletics teacher had a preliminary but highly probably diagnosis of lung cancer and the seminary opened the chapel doors for a prayer vigil the night before his exploratory surgery. Most of those there were Lutherans, so it wasn't exactly a "down home pray the paint off the walls affair" - it was actually pretty quiet, with a corporate prayer to begin and end and with private individual prayer in between. When Dr. Hoefler had surgery the next day, we learned that his doctors were baffled because there was no sign of cancer, and when they did follow up x-rays, what they thought they saw wasn't there anymore.

The second was when then Presiding Bishop Fred James "volunteered" me to be on the executive committee for Billy Graham's 1987 Columbia, SC crusade. I wasn't a big Graham fan - I'm still not and am sitting out his son Franklin's coming crusade in Charleston - but I was impressed with the fact that the Graham team prayed a lot - before meetings, after meetings, during meetings and when any decision on the direction of the Crusade was being made. Again, not pat and proudly rehearsed long prayers, but simple and straight to the point prayers. The result was a heavily attended crusade that was a lot more "culturally colorful" than any similar event in Columbia 20 years ago. The personal result was that a couple of my white Crusade prayer partners are still good collegial friends of mine - and unlikely friends, since one of them is Pentecostal Holiness and the other is Presbyterian Church in America - prayer does make a difference!

Editor’s Note: I thought that dialogue was most appropriate and thought it most appropriate to share with all of The Christian Recorder subscribers.

8. PAYNE THEOLOGICAL SEMINARY’S FIRST MASTER OF DIVINITY ONLINE PROGRAM GRADUATES:

On May 9, 2008, Payne Theological Seminary graduated eleven students with the Master of Divinity degree. Among that number were six degree recipients of note, five men and one woman, who became the first persons to earn the distinguished degree as distance learning students. The Reverends, Harvey Doctor, Archie Fair, Sinclair Frasier, David Owens, Jr., Angia Taylor, and Herbert Temoney, are all members of the Seventh Episcopal District of the African Methodist Episcopal (AME) Church, under the leadership of Bishop Preston Warren Williams. Upon the denomination’s vote in 2000 decreeing that all of its ordained elders should possess the Master of Divinity degree, Bishop Williams enlisted the cooperation of Payne Theological Seminary’s Online Program for the fulfillment of this requirement.

Payne President Leah Gaskin Fitchue, long an innovator in theological education, shepherded her institution through a process whereby the entire Payne curriculum is available for non-resident students through a combination of online courses and residential weeklong or weekend intensive courses. Beginning gradually with a handful of course offerings, Dr. Fitchue saw the full curriculum developed for non-resident students in 2004, when the faculty, led by academic consultant and distinguished theological scholar Harold Dean Trulear, reorganized the curriculum and course delivery system to make three year graduation possible. The six 2008 distance learning graduates took full advantage of this development. The Online Coordinator, Ms. Audrey Ling, provided assistance to each student as needed.

“It takes discipline to complete this program,” offered Reverend Taylor. “You have to take your studies seriously.” Reverend Fair noted that the demands were rigorous, “especially since God called me to be a husband and a father as well as a pastor.” Most of the graduates also had other work responsibilities to juggle with the demands of seminary study. However, their financial situation was made easier by the generous support of Bishop Williams and the Seventh Episcopal District, which gave half tuition scholarships for 27 full time participants totaling $350,000 over a three-year period. Scholarship recipients are required to sign a covenant to serve seven years in the Seventh Episcopal District upon receipt of the Master of Divinity degree. “Thank God for Bishop Williams and his vision and generosity,” declared a grateful Reverend Owens. The support eased financial concerns for all. Joked Reverend Fair, “I study better when my bills are paid!” Reverend Temoney added that because of the financial support, persons in his district “have no reason not to get a theological education.”

Graduates were unanimous in their praise of President Fitchue for the development of the stellar program. In their Wilberforce based weeklong intensive courses, they “sat at the feet of distinguished theological scholars like Drs. James H. Cone and J. Deotis Roberts,” said Reverend Fair.

Students also took intensive courses in other venues, such as Jacksonville, Philadelphia and New Orleans. In the latter site, they worked with the Samuel DeWitt Proctor Conference, and engaged in ministry with those affected by Hurricane Katrina.” We not only attended lectures, but were part of healing the broken hearted in New Orleans,” said Fair. Reverend Taylor noted how that experience helped her and her classmates take the ministry of healing, counseling, and restoration back to their congregations.

The intensive courses also featured time for the participants, for whom most of their work was done in front of a computer, to have time in community building and mutual encouragement. “Dr. Fitchue held a Roundtable at each Intensive course,” offered Reverend Doctor. “We would talk about our learning experiences and reflect on our participation and growth.” Then, he said, it was “time to go back to our local congregations and put our learning into action.” The six graduates each noted that their churches could tell the difference their theological education was making in their ministries. All reported significant support for their studies from the congregations. They pointed to how the youth of their churches were also inspired to excellence in their education through the example of their pastors attending and graduating from seminary, right before their eyes.

The curriculum at Payne is organized around a biblical understanding of the ministry of Jesus and the church as change agents for salvation and liberation. Participants found this emphasis refreshing. “I transferred from a seminary that did not offer this perspective,” said Reverend Frasier. “Liberation theology [at Payne] spoke directly to me and the people in my congregation. We took a course called Cultural Hermeneutics where we saw how biblical interpretation requires understanding social context and how the Bible is a book of social change.” All of the graduates pointed to the way their own ability to exegete and interpret Scripture has grown through the Payne courses. “And it shows in our preaching,” said Reverend Owens. “And in our ability to do counseling and other ministries,” added Reverend Taylor.

Working online was a tremendous benefit for time challenged pastors with multiple responsibilities at home, church and workplace. But all agreed that the program worked well for them. They pointed to a supportive faculty and administration, their experiences with other students in the program--both online and in Intensive courses, and, most of all, the vision and support of Bishop Williams and President Fitchue. “Thank God for them,” all chimed as if in concert. “They made this possible for us.” As to the future of the Payne Online Program, all saw it as bright--“there is always room for improvement, but Dr. Fitchue’s track record suggests she knows how to get the bugs out,” offered Reverend Doctor. Reverend Taylor said that several persons she knew were primed to attend Payne because they saw her do well in the program. “We recommend this program to the Seventh Episcopal District and beyond,” closed Reverend Temoney. Bishop Williams and Dr. Fitchue have done an excellent job.

Maryjo Lewis

9. CNN WILL AIR “BLACK IN AMERICA ON JULY 23, 2008:

Here is the link for the CNN special; Black in America airing on July 23rd and July 24th 2008.
http://www.cnn.com/SPECIALS/2008/black.in.america/

10. BISHOP H. H. BROOKINS HONORED WITH BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION AND STREETNAMING IN HIS HONOR:

June 9, 2008

Los Angeles, CA—Hundreds gathered on Sunday, June 8th to celebrate the birthday of Bishop Hamel Hartford (“HH”) Brookins along with witnessing the unveiling of the street sign that bears his name.

With a backdrop of Brookins Community African Methodist Episcopal Church, the stage was set with family, friends, government officials and clergy bringing greetings and reminiscing about their life-long relationships with the man who founded the Church located at 4831 South Gramercy Place, Los Angeles in 1977. He appointed the Rev. Theodore Larry Kirkland as the pastor. After Kirkland became the 114th consecrated Bishop of the AME Church in 1996, the Rev. Frederick O. Murph became the congregations’ leader.

Brookins’ ministry of more than 50 years has placed him in the company of kings, presidents, politicians, and stars. His experience, love for the ministry and more importantly his love of God have given him the ability to reach people from all walks of life. Congresswoman Maxine Waters credited the Bishop with being a visionary and making her the person she is today. “Like so many others, he helped me launch my political career, and I will forever be grateful to Bishop H. H. Brookins” she said. Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa told the audience that if it had not been for Mayor Tom Bradley, he would not be in his position as well. Brookins played a leading role in Bradley’s historic election. He thanked the Bishop for being a positive influence in the community. “People have not only come for the renaming of the street, but for the legend among us” said Villaraigosa. “We are here to honor a man whose whole life has been about giving.” The Mayor led the audience in singing Happy Birthday, both traditional and “Stevie Wonder” style.

The Rev. Cecil L. “Chip” Murray mastered the ceremonies in a refreshing, gentle, humorous and efficient manner, while soul stirring songs were sung by the Brookinaires Gospel Choir from FAME. Soloist’s Rev. Shirley LaCour and Felicia Akuomoah honored the Bishop in song.

Among the luminaries in attendance were Bishop John Richard Bryant of the 5th Episcopal District, Bishop Vashti Murphy McKenzie, 13th Episcopal District, and Bishop Carolyn Tyler Guidry of the 16th Episcopal District. Ministers from AME Churches included the Rev. John J. Hunter (First AME, Los Angeles), the Rev. Frederick O. Murph (Brookins Community AME, Los Angeles), the Rev. Leslie White (Grant AME, Los Angeles), the Rev. Michael Eagle, Sr. (St. Mark AME, Los Angeles), the Rev. Kelvin Calloway (Second AME, Los Angeles), the Rev. Edgar Boyd (Bethel AME, San Francisco), the Rev. L. Fisher Hines (Walker Temple AME, Los Angeles), the Rev. Dennis Williams (Ward AME, Los Angeles) and the Rev. Donnell Miles (Price Chapel AME, Los Angeles), among others.

The program included presentations from various municipal officials. Lois Hill Hale, Deputy to Congresswoman Diane Watson, recalled the years of support the Bishop has given to the Congresswoman, insisting that she run for the School Board many years ago, along with garnering support for her present position in Congress. Assemblyman Mike Davis brought greetings from the 48th Assembly District, where Brookins Community AME Church is located.

The Rev. Francine (Wright Chapel AME, San Francisco) and Brother Steven stood next to their 10-year old brother, Sir Wellington Brookins, as he thanked the steering committee members, and everyone for attending this auspicious occasion. Speaking with eloquence and poise, Sir Wellington spoke of his deep love and affection for his father. “I call you my hero because you made me think anything is possible. We love you and we are proud of you,” he said. It was evident that the Rev. Rosalynn Brookins, the Bishop’s wife of 18 years, was glowing with pride as she listened to their son deliver his speech, which was received with a standing ovation from the audience.

Several people in attendance were recognized, including Dr. Donald Ware, the Bishop’s Cardiologist; AME Connectional Officers, Mrs. Jackie Dupont Walker and Mrs. Gwen Williams; Ms. Regina Evans, Deputy Cabinet Secretary from the Office of Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger, Mr. Percy Pinkney from the Office of Senator Diane Feinstein; State Senate Candidate Rod Wright; Mr. David Henry who is producing a documentary on the Bishop; Ms. Tonette Hayes, the person who initiated the street renaming with the City of Los Angeles; Ms. Sylvia Reynolds, RN, Assistant Director of Nursing at Brier Oak; Attorney J. Stanley Sanders; the Rev. Leonard Jackson from the Mayor’s Office; and Mrs. Margaret Bush-Ware, the event coordinator. Members of Bishop Brookins’ family that were in attendance included his brother Herbert “Sandy” from Los Angeles, Audrey Brookins from Chicago, IL, and the Rev. Lori Veason from St. Louis, MO.

Congratulatory messages were received from federal, state and local officials. The street renaming was sponsored by Councilman Bernard Parks and the 8th Council District. Councilman Parks acknowledged that many street signs have been posted during his tenure as Councilman, but stated this particular sign has a special significance for him because he has regarded Bishop Brookins with the highest esteem for many years. The Councilman pointed out how important it is to preserve the legacy of community pioneers who were instrumental in building black Los Angeles. He said, “That’s what brought us here today—we wanted to give you this honor while you’re still her to smell the roses.” The entire audience followed him for the ribbon cutting and unveiling of the street sign which reads “Hamel Hartford Brookins Square, Founder of Brookins Community AME Church, 1977.”

Brookins was appointed pastor of the prestigious First AME Church of Los Angeles in 1960. He relocated FAME to its present multi-million dollar sanctuary in 1968. At the 1972 General Conference, he was elected and consecrated the 91st Bishop of the African Methodist Episcopal Church. A charismatic blend of the pulpit preacher and the platform orator, his ministry in both the pastorate and the episcopacy reflects a high level of social and political activities on two continents, making him easily one of the unsung, but great heroes in the fight to achieve justice and equality for black people. He rose to prominence in Los Angeles as a pastor whose exemplary political acumen and community service were unparalleled.

Bishop John R. Bryant lauded Brookins for envisioning an ambitious economic development program for South Los Angeles. “He said that if we pooled our dollars, we could do major things together. He started the economic development plan for the 5th Episcopal District.

Servant of God well-done!”

The wheelchair-bound Bishop was all smiles, all day. He has been convalescing at Brier Oak Terrace Care Center. This birthday had special meaning because he was able to witness first hand the ribbon cutting and street renaming ceremony.

“To God be the glory, for the things God has done!”

Mrs. Margaret Bush-Ware
Telephone: 323-299-9273

11. BISHOP SARAH DAVIS ISSUES A CALL FOR PRAYER FOR AFRICA - SUNDAY, JUNE 22, 2008:

June 17, 2008

As we approach our 48th Quadrennial Session of the General Conference there are many things on our minds as we face the daily challenges of rising gas prices, airline schedule changes and increase in fares, home foreclosures, job security, unemployment, family crisis and the list of challenges goes on. However, I want to ask that you add to your prayer concerns at this time the Continent of Africa and our people who are yet struggling for peace and normalcy in the activities of simply rising daily and moving about freely to make a living.

Monday, June 16, 2008, I received an email from Sister Sara Zandamela, Treasurer of the Mozambique Annual Conference and delegate to the General Conference asking for prayer for Africa and the people of Mozambique in particular. She indicated that despite the efforts of Mozambicans and other nationals to get out of South Africa because of Xenophobia, riots are still on the rise. Sister Sara stated: “Yesterday a Mozambican was killed and burned. While the Mozambique government is appealing for non-retaliation, it appears the attacks are not ending. From the total of 62 killed people 21 are South Africans who did not look like South Africans!!! Despite the fact that some even had the chance to declare and prove that they are their nationals they were killed. The devil is just out of control.”

The World Council of Churches worldwide are being invited to celebrate a day of prayer for Zimbabwe on Sunday, 22 June, as the beginning of a season of prayer for the people and government of the African country, which is facing a critical time. The day of prayer for Zimbabwe, which is an initiative of Christians in the country, will take place shortly before the runoff election for the presidency scheduled for Friday, 27 June.

Please, ask your Episcopal Districts to PRAY FOR AFRICA this Sunday, June 22nd! The world needs the Church of the living God praying now as never before!

Bishop Sarah Davis,
Presiding Prelate
18th Episcopal District, AMEC

Letter on Zimbabwe to WCC member churches and Prayer for Zimbabwe

Beloved friends in Christ,

At the initiative of brothers and sisters in Zimbabwe, we in the World Council of Churches invite you to join us in observing Sunday 22 June 2008 as the beginning of a season of prayer for the people and government of Zimbabwe.

On Friday 27 June 2008, the citizens of Zimbabwe will return to polling booths to cast ballots in a runoff election for the presidency. It is impossible to overstate the importance of this election, its fairness, its outcome and its aftermath. Events in the coming weeks will challenge the people of Zimbabwe and the world to find means of overcoming violence in the exercise of democracy, and the results will influence the future of the nation and the region.

On Sunday 22 June we request churches to observe a day of prayer for Zimbabwe; on that Sunday, and in the days that follow, we ask you to join millions of Christians throughout the world as we lift up Zimbabwe and its people to the Lord, ask God’s blessing and pray that peace may prevail.

We offer the following prayer as a petition to God for the people of Zimbabwe:

Eternal God: In your sight nations rise and fall, and pass through times of trial. We pray with and for Zimbabwe in this hour of national decision, and we ask your divine blessing on all the people of the land.

May Zimbabwe’s leaders seek justice by means that are just; may the voters take action to promote the common good; may international observers and mediators be guided by your wisdom.

Lead us not into temptation, Lord, and deliver your people from evil:

Empower us all to overcome anger, jealousy, division and violence; help us to respect one another despite our differences; and teach us the things that truly make for peace.

This we pray in the name of Jesus Christ our Saviour. Amen.

Through this, and other prayerful actions, we will continue to support the people of Zimbabwe through the days and weeks ahead. In the love and unity of the triune God, we thank you for joining in this season of prayer.

The Rev. Dr Samuel Kobia
General Secretary,
World Council of Churches

13. DR. DARYL INGRAM DAY:

The Dr. Daryl Ingram Day for the Tenth District has come. We want to thank those who participated in the day and encourage them to get their contributions to the Rev. George Johnson this week.

Gifts may be mailed to Rev. George Johnson at 3500 Lake Heights Drive Waco, Texas 76708.

Rev. Dr. W. Raymond Bryant

14. PEW FORUM ON RELIGION & PUBLIC LIFE STUDY DETAILS AMERICANS' RELIGIOUS BELIEFS AND BEHAVIORS AS WELL AS THEIR SOCIAL AND POLITICAL ATTITUDES:

http://religions.pewforum.org/reports

15. BITS AND PIECES:

Attorney Reginald Thomas, attorney for the Kentucky Annual Conference and long time member of Historic Saint Paul AME Church in Lexington, Kentucky has been named a Barack Obama delegate to the DNC this summer in Denver.

16. THE PASTOR’S CORNER – S.H.A.P.E.: FINDING AND FULFILLING YOUR UNIQUE PURPOSE FOR LIFE:

For we are God’s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do. (Ephesians 2: 10)
In his book, S.H.A.P.E., Erik Rees asks a question that every human being considers at some point in his or her life - “What will be the contribution of my life?” The passage above gives clear direction to the person who is seeking to know what will be the contribution of his or her life. We are “created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.”

Each of us who knows Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord is a unique creation that God uses to God’s glory and in the building of God’s kingdom. According to Rees, the acronym “S.H.A.P.E.” describes “Your God-given special design and the specific difference God desires for you to make on earth for His glory”. Understanding your unique S.H.A.P.E. will help you to fulfill your ultimate purpose and live a significant life.

The pathway to living a significant life is a path of service in your specific kingdom assignment. We’re being led by God to pursue not a career, but a calling – not simply success, but true significance. In Matthew 20: 20-28 the mother of James and John was seeking her sons’ success by asking, “Grant that one of these two sons of mine may sit at your right and the other at your left in your kingdom.” By offering to allow them to “drink from my cup,” Jesus opens the door to a higher level of living – significance. As Jesus’ other disciples become indignant with the two brothers, Jesus redirects their ambitions from personal success to the Father’s plan for each of them to serve others.

“You know that the rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their high officials exercise authority over them. Not so with you. Instead, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first must be your slave – just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”

Fulfillment of your ultimate purpose in God’s plan will always follow the pathway of service to others (Philippians 2: 1-11). At Quinn Chapel AME Church, Chicago, we have adopted a simple phrase that serves as a guide for our thoughts, words, and deeds – “Christ-centered and others-focused.” Only when the life of the believer is centered in Christ will one be able to fulfill the ultimate purpose God has for one’s life. Only when the thoughts, words, and deeds of the believer are focused on others will true significance be achieved. It is by being “Christ-centered and others-focused” that we are molded by God into our “S.H.A.P.E.” – “Your God-given special design and the specific difference God desires for you to make on earth for His glory.”

I highly recommend Erik Rees’ book, “S.H.A.P.E.” for any person desiring to answer the question, “What will be the contribution of my life?” Textbooks, workbooks, and a video learning series are available for individuals and groups at
http://www.purposedriven.com/en-US/SHAPE/welcome.htm .

*The Rev. James M. Moody is the pastor of Quinn Chapel AME Church, Chicago

Copyrights © 2008 by the Rev. James M. Moody. All rights reserved. No part of this article may be copied or reproduced without the written permission of the author. To contact the writer go to quinnamechicago@sbcglobal.net

17. EPISCOPACY AND CLERGY CONGRATULATORY NOTICE:

- Congratulations to the Rev. Regina C. Groff on receiving her Doctor of Philosophy degree from the University of Denver on Friday, June 6th. Her dissertation is entitled: “Beyond Sunday Mornings: The Influence of Church-Based Programs on the Everyday Lives of Urban African American Youth.” Her husband, the Honorable Peter C. Groff, was the speaker at the Commencement Ceremony and was awarded the honorary degree of Doctor of Public Service by the University of Denver. Senator Groff serves as President of the Colorado State Senate.

The Rev. Dr. Groff has her BA and MDiv from Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, and is the pastor of Campbell Chapel AME Church in Denver, Colorado which is in the Desert Mountain Conference of the Fifth Episcopal District. The Rt. Rev. John R. Bryant is the presiding prelate of the 5th Episcopal District and the Rev. Andrew Simpson, Jr., Dr. Groff’s presiding elder.

18. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

We regret to inform you of the passing of Brother Wayne M. Nesbitt who died suddenly on Friday, June 13, 2008, in Washington, DC. He was the son of the late Atty. Leroy Nesbitt, Sr., who served as General Counsel of the A.M.E. Church.

Homegoing Services:

Monday, June 23, 2008
11:00 A.M.
Metropolitan A.M.E. Church
1518 M Street, NW
Washington, DC 20005
Rev. Ronald E. Braxton, Pastor
Phone: (202) 331-1426
Office Fax: (202) 331-0369

Professional Services:

Hunt Funeral Home
908 Kennedy Street, NW
Washington, DC 20011
(202) 636-3612

Condolences may be sent to:

Mrs. Novella F. Nesbitt (Mother)
6528 Eastern Avenue
Washington, DC 20012
(202) 723-5108

Atty. Leroy Nesbitt, Jr. (Brother)
2618 North Hampton Street, NW
Washington, DC 20015
(202) 237-8474

19. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

With regret this communication comes to inform you of the passing of the Reverend Johnny T. Hagans, a Supernumerary minister in the 12th Episcopal District. Rev. Hagans passed on Sunday, June 15, 2008. He is survived by his spouse, Mrs. Cynthia Hagans and family.

Service arrangements for the Reverend Johnny T. Hagans:

Funeral:
Monday, June 23, 2008
11 a.m.
Grant Chapel A.M.E. Church
1628 SW McKinley Street
Lawton, OK 73501

Arrangements are entrusted to:
Jefferson Funeral Home
101 East Gore Street
Lawton, OK
Phone: (580) 353-2223

Condolences may be sent to:
Mrs. Cynthia Hagans and family
4219 SE Elmhurst
Lawton, OK 73501
Phone: (580) 368-7060

20. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

It is with deep sorrow that we share news of the passing of Mr. Arthur Smith, the brother of Presiding Elder Elijah Smith, Sr. and Sister Janet Smith.

Mr. Arthur Smith passed away on Tuesday, June 10, 2008 and the Homegoing Celebration was held today (Tuesday, 17, 2008) at 1:00 PM.

Liberty Praise Holiness Church
211 Davidson Drive
Fort Valley, GA 31030
Phone: (478) 825-4005

Services were entrusted to:
C.J. Edward Funeral Home
409 Preston Street
Fort Valley, GA 31030
Phone: (478) 825-2730

Condolences may be sent to:
Reverend and Mrs. Elijah Smith, Sr.
2008 Armory Drive
Americus, GA 31719
Phone: (229) 928-9727

Or

Email: elijahsmith01@bellsouth.net

The Reverend Elijah Smith, Sr. is Presiding Elder of the Eastern District, Southwest Georgia Annual Conference - Sixth Episcopal District; Bishop William P. DeVeaux, Presiding Prelate.


21. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

It is with deep sorrow that we share news of the passing of the mother of Presiding Elder Shane M. Apollos of the Cape Annual Conference, Fifteenth Episcopal District; Bishop Samuel Lawrence Green, Sr., Presiding Prelate.

We trust that God will heal the wound that has been opened.

Condolences may be sent to Rev. Shane M. Apollos at the following email address: mwshanea@mweb.co.za

Submitted by:
Rev. Clive Pillay, Pastor
Oak Grove A.M.E. Church - Cloetesville, South Africa
Secretary of the Cape Peninsula East District

22. 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

23. 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.