The Reverend Dr. Johnny Barbour, Jr., Publisher
The Reverend Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III, Editor
To see the foreign language postings go to the side panel on the right side of The Christian Recorder Online http://www.the-christian-recorder.org/tcr-online/ under “Previous Posts” and click on the language and the date of the issue you wish to read. If the language you wish to read is not posted, please email me.
1. NEWS FROM AROUND THE AME CHURCH:
- “40th Anniversary Celebration Held at Young Chapel, Huntington, WV”
On Sunday, July 17, 2005, immediately following morning worship service, the Reverend and Mrs. Samuel (Erma) Chambers renewed wedding vows as they celebrated forty years of marital bliss. Family members, the church congregation, and friends witnessed the ceremony.
Mrs. Chambers was escorted by her son, Samuel Jr., and had all eyes watching as she entered in a formal mauve and black satin dress holding a beautiful floral bouquet offset by a matching veil adorned with pink flowers. Rev. Chambers, in a handsome tuxedo, waited for his wife at the altar with the Rev. Larry Patterson officiating. They expressed deep-felt words of love for each other as wedding vows were renewed. Other family members present included daughters Shanee and Sonya from the McKeesport, Pennsylvania area. Grandchildren in attendance included Courtney, Darvin, Diallo, DiAngelo, Sam, and (in spirit) Dominique. Rev. Chambers’ sister and niece from the Pittsburgh area were also present.
Participating in the festive activities, included Young Chapel’s youth praise dancers (teens and children), senior choir, and Liberation gospel choir. A reception was held after the anniversary celebration at the Underwood Senior Citizen’s Center in Huntington. It was a truly remarkable afternoon.
After 36 years of service as a pastor, Rev. Chambers and Mrs. Chambers first give honor to God for His Grace and Mercy shown to them throughout their many wonderful years of marriage.
Submitted by the Young Chapel AME Steward Board
August 18, 2005
- Twelfth Episcopal District Website Is Up and Running:
The 12th Episcopal District Website is available. We invite you to visit our Website. Pictures are on the site from Leadership meeting, Bishop Chappelle’s birthday and other information about the 12th Episcopal District under the dynamic leadership of Bishop Richard Allen Chappell. The Reverend Charles Frost developed the Website, with pictures by Ann Gilkey!
http://www.geocities.com/amedist12/
Sister Ann Gilkey
- Pastor and wife honored in Dennison, Texas–
The Rev. Dr. Frederick and Carolyn Lewis were honored with "Pastor and Wife Appreciation Services" at 3 p.m. Sunday at Quinn Chapel AME Church in Denison, Texas.
- Church opposes widening of street that will cause them to have to relocate
Fontana, California. Bethel AME Church opposes the widening of the street that will force them to relocate. The city project involves the widening of Baseline Avenue that will mean Bethel AME Church could face eminent domain if a settlement is not reached. The members of Bethel are challenging their plans. The Rev. John Cager is the pastor of Bethel AME Church.
- Quinn Chapel, Chicago celebrates 158th Anniversary this Sunday
Sunday, August 28, 2005 marks the day we will celebrate the 158th Anniversary of Quinn Chapel. Presiding Elder David C. Coleman (retired) will be our Sunday morning speaker. Following the service of worship, we will enjoy a special Quinn Chapel birthday cake in recognition of God’s continued blessings.
Please call the church office at 312-791-1846 for further information.
- A new anti-AIDS campaign, ''5 Days of Action,'' slated for Washington, DC
A group of local religious leaders met on the steps of Metropolitan African Methodist Episcopal (AME) Church at 15th and M streets, NW, and announced their support for the Campaign to End AIDS (C2EA). The program is scheduled to begin in October 2005. The Rev. Dr. Ronald Braxton is the pastor of Metropolitan AME Church. The religious leaders who met on the steps of Metropolitan included the African American Women's Clergy Association; Brown Memorial AME Church on Northeast 14th Street; Foundry United Methodist Church; Metropolitan Baptist Church; Pennsylvania Avenue Baptist Church; Shiloh Baptist Church, and Westminster Presbyterian Church.
- Church celebrates 109th Anniversary
Congratulations to St. Paul AME Church, Jonesboro, Arkansas who celebrated 109 years of service and ministry to the community.
- AME Pastor acknowledges that his life saved by ticket and seatbelt
Maryland participates in program to ticket drivers who are not using their seatbelts. Some drivers felt that the program needlessly hassled drivers; others support the program. The Annapolis Capital newspaper reported, “During the 2005 Maryland Chiefs Challenge, participating police departments conducted seatbelt checkpoints on heavily traveled roads and distributed material about traffic safety from April 5 to June 5.” The newspaper reported that Annapolis Sgt. John K. Miller said, "… our main goal is to get people to wear their seat belts."
The paper reported that, “The message wasn't lost on the Rev. Johnny R. Calhoun, senior pastor of Mt. Olive AME Church. In 2003, he was headed to a funeral at the church when he was stopped on Forest Drive for not wearing his seat belt. City police gave him a warning. One week later, he was in an accident and his car was totaled. That time, he was buckled up.’ I was appreciative to them and explained that it helped save my life,’ said the Rev. Calhoun, who has since put up signs about seatbelt safety around the church. ‘We continue to encourage people to be safe. Every time you see those signs, it will remind you to wear your seat belt.’”
Extracted from The Capital (Annapolis) newspaper in an article written by Staff Writer Shantee Woodards
2. THE CHAPLAINS’ CORNER:
We have been extremely busy during PANAMAX.
Two things of significant note: The Commander of the Combined Joint Task Force 138 (PANAMAX) is Rear Admiral Smith, who is African-American.
Also, the Commodore of the American Navy assets (ships) is Captain (COL/0-6) Sinclair Harris, who is an AME and the cousin of Bishop John Bryant. I talked with Commodore Harris throughout the exercise and he told me about the days when his uncle, the late Bishop John Bryant, Sr., used to pastor Mother Bethel AME Church. Both officers are “sharp as tacks” and have a commanding presence. It was a proud moment to see "us" in charge.
The exercise officially ends tomorrow and I will be freed-up to do some writing as we head to the Eastern Caribbean. Until then, take care and God bless you!
Yours in Christ,
Chaplain Brown
3. ARTICLE IS TIME, MONEY. FINDING VALUES AND VALUE IN CHRONOS, KAIROS, AND "C.P. "TIME:
By Stephanie and Eric Stradford
Atlanta, GA, August 18, 2005 -- At one time or another, most folks have bought into the adage, "Time is Money." Last evening, Bible Study got started at about 7:11 -- eleven minutes late for some. For others, 7:11 might have been that long-awaited "wink from God" to play those numbers before the lotto window closes. Perhaps for the faithful, gathered at First African Methodist Episcopal Church here, 7:11 was the right time at the right place for a lesson on time.
The Reverend David Randolph Bishop, IV found comfort in prefacing his lesson on the value of children with some choice words on time--Kairos, Chronos, and, and for good measure, we'll throw in "C.P.” time. Just weeks before his "sudden death," The late Dr. Arthur Allen Fletcher, Father of the Affirmative Action Enforcement Movement, described a mystical "zone" as such. "When you are in your eighties, you are often in The Twilight Zone," he said.
At the same time, Kristen C. Simpson, a 16 year-young author at Ebenezer AME Church, was preparing readers for time-travel through her newly released book, "Messages From Above."
The quest for value takes a turn into the "C.P." time zone as AME preacher and Howard University filmmaker, Dr. Paula Matabane enlightens children of slavery about their Kairos value in her film, "Hair Like Wool, Feet Like Bronze." Get the book. See the film. Get an earth-shattering perspective on the old saying, "Time is money."
"Hair Like Wool, Feet Like Bronze" is not just a documentary; it investigates the "stony road" trod by descendants of Africa to arrive at a pre-ordained place in C.P. or Colored Peoples' time. Kairos, for the purpose of this observation, is cyclic. Before John the Revelator wrote Revelations, he walked with God in the form of Jesus the Christ.
Poetically recorded in the Gospel (truth) according to John, is an undisputable portrayal of Kairos time and the value of God's Word to the world, as we know it. "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was with God in the beginning." The Word, revealed through the writer, testified that Jesus evolved from the beginning of time and creation and he was not just created.
The ultimate transition from Kairos to Chronos time zones exposes the Word as a compounded value. The writer reveals in the 14th verse, "The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us."
The image of such a miracle was so powerful, that some of those empowered by the Word felt the need to hide it. In doing so, the powerful hoped to perpetuate an advantage over the powerless. The film "Hair Like Wool, Feet Like Bronze" presents is an empowering value for C.P. time. It presents startling evidence that Jesus was indeed "the brotha" from Africa" who operated simultaneously in Kairos and Chronos time zones.
"Chronos," for the purpose of this observation, is linear. It bases a measurable, quantitative timeline on two Kairos factors. B.C. suggests, (proves, accepts) lineage, preceding Immaculate Conception, evinced by the birth of Christ. A.D. denotes the culture-centric period, Anno Domini, or Year of the Lord Jesus Christ. Some scholars measure Chronos in "tick-tock time" rather than the immeasurable endowment of the Word of God as a value.
"Money" is a word, but not the Word. A Pennsylvania preacher wrote some words to the U.S. Secretary of the Treasury on November 13, 1861. Rev. M. R. Watkinson, Minister of the Gospel from Ridleyville, Pennsylvania, wrote:
"Dear Sir: You are about to submit your annual report to the Congress respecting the affairs of the national finances. One fact touching our currency has hitherto been seriously overlooked. I mean the recognition of the Almighty God in some form on our coins. You are probably a Christian. What if our Republic were not shattered beyond reconstruction? Would not the antiquaries of succeeding centuries rightly reason from our past that we were a heathen nation?"
In the short version, God's Kairos (timeless, cyclic) Word through His Chronos (tick-tock, linear) messenger Watkinson, endowed The United States Treasury with an immeasurable trust. The motto IN GOD WE TRUST was placed on United States coins largely because of increased Christian activism during the Civil War. As such, alternative World History might evince The Civil War as yet another strategic event in Chronos time, endowed by Kairos values.
Why did America engage in Civil War? What was the war to end all wars? What measurable value exists today as a result of lives lost in Korea, Vietnam, The Middle East, the war on "global terrorism," or for that matter, two wars against Great Britain for American independence? The indefinite words, "National Security" come to mind in valuing wars, rumors of war, and historic justifications for fighting them.
Whether you operate in Kairos, Chronos or CP, time has value. Made, borrowed or compounded the value of time increases. Spent, wasted, lost, or done, the value decreases.
Along Jesus' Chronos timeline, the disciples came to Jesus and asked, "Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?" He called a little child and had him stand among them for an historic lesson on the value of time. "I tell you the truth, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Therefore, whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven," according to the truth.
In less than forty modern-day years, Jesus established a system of spiritual, physical, social, and economic security based on a perpetual value. He suffered, bled, died, and rose just for me. Richard Allen knew it, so did his great-great nephew, Arthur Allen Fletcher. Now Kristen Simpson can tell you, it is no secret what God can do. As written in Matthew 18, "And whoever welcomes a little child like this in my name welcomes me. But if anyone causes one of these little ones who believe in me to sin, it would be better for him to have a large millstone hung around his neck and to be drowned in the depths of the sea."
4. THE 2005 SCHEDULE OF EVENTS OF THE ELEVENTH EPISCOPAL DISTRICT:
Annual Conference Schedules & Venues
Florida Conference (140th Session)
August 27 - September 2, 2005
Host Site: Bethel A.M.E. Church
501 West Orange Avenue
(850) 576-7501
Tallahassee, FL 32310
Host Pastor: The Rev. Semmeal Thomas
Host Church: Mt. Zion AME, Havana, FL
Host Pres. Elder: The Rev. Henry Griffin
August 27 Young People’s Division
August 28 Debutante Masters Commission (DMC)
August 29 Women’s Missionary Society (WMS)
August 30 - Sept. 2 Annual Conference Convenes - Opening - Business - Closing
Central Conference (106th Session)
September 17-23, 2005
Host Site: Allen Chapel A.M.E. Church
530 George W. Ingram Blvd
Daytona Beach, FL 32120
(386) 255-1195
Host Pastor: The Rev. Vincent Mitchell
Host Pres. Elder: The Rev. James O. Williams
September 17 Young People’s Division (YPD)
September 18 Debutante Masters Commission (DMC)
September 19 Women’s Missionary Society (WMS)
September 20-23 Annual Conference Convenes - Opening - Business - Closing
South Conference (115th Session)
October 1-7, 2005
Host Site: St. Paul A.M.E. Church
1892 NW 51st Terrace
Miami, FL 33142
(305) 634-3720
Host Pastor: The Rev. Michael Bouie
Host Pres. Elder: The Rev. John Bodison
October 1 Young People’s Division (YPD)
October 2 Debutante Masters Commission (DMC)
October 3 Women’s Missionary Society (WMS)
October 4-7 Annual Conference Convenes - Opening - Business - Closing
West Coast Conference (65th Session)
October 15-21, 2005
Host Site: New Bethel A.M.E. Church
2122 M. L. King Jr. Avenue
Lakeland, FL 33805
(863) 687-1994
Host Pastor: The Rev. Jimmy Thompson
Host Pres. Elder: The Rev. F. B. Lemon
October 15 Young People’s Division (YPD)
October 16 Debutante Masters Commission (DMC)
October 17 Women’s Missionary Society (WMS)
October 18-21 Annual Conference Convenes - Opening - Business - Closing
East Conference (130th Session)
October 29 - November 4, 2005
Host Site: St. Stephen A.M.E. Church
913 W. 5th Street
Jacksonville, FL 32209
(904) 354-5201
Host Pastor: The Rev. Michael Mitchell
Host Pres. Elder: The Rev. Dr. Robert L. Mitchell
October 29 Young People’s Division (YPD)
October 30 Debutante Masters Commission (DMC)
October 31 Women’s Missionary Society (WMS)
November 1-4 Annual Conference Convenes - Opening - Business – Closing
Bahamas Conference (66th Session)
November 16-20, 2005
Host Site: Robinson- Morris A.M.E. Church
P.O. Box SS6973
Nassau, Bahamas
(242) 356-2347
Host Pastor: The Rev. Howard Williamson
Host Pres. Elder: The Rev. Dr. Ranford Patterson
Nov. 16 Lay Organization
Nov. 17 Women’s Missionary Society (WMS)
Nov. 18 Annual Conference Convenes - Opening - Business - Closing
Nov. 19 Young People’s Division (YPD) / Debutante Master’s Commission (DMC)
Eleventh Episcopal District Planning Meeting
December 1-3, 2005
Double Tree Hotel
4500 W. Cypress Street
Tampa, FL 33607
813-879-4800-Phone
813-873-1832-Fax
Day of Sharing
Florida Conference South Conference East Conference
November 26, 2005 November 27, 2005 Dec. 17, 2005
2:00 p.m. 4:00 p.m. 3:00 p.m.
St. James A.M.E. St. James St. Matthew
Quincy, FL 32351 Liberty City, FL 33147 Jacksonville, FL 32254
(850) 526-3440 (305) 691-4212 (904) 388-6900
Rev. Lee Plummer, Pastor Rev. James Davis, Pastor Rev. Marcius King, Pastor
Central/West Coast
Dec. 18, 2005
4:00 p.m.
Hurst Chapel
Winter Haven, FL
(863) 293-6415
Rev. Ronnie Clark, Pastor
2006 Schedule of Events
Lay Organization Midyear MSA Retreat
Jan. 19-20 March 16-18 April 20-22
Winter Executive Board Rosen Centre Hotel TBD
Tallahassee, FL 9840 International Drive
Orlando, FL 32819
Rate: $110.00
Lay Org 62nd Annual Lay Convention Pres. Elder Retreat
April 27-29 June 20-23 July 14-15
Lay Dev. Training Retreat Florida Conference Rosen Centre Hotel
Tallahassee District 9840 International Dr.
CEC
July 17-20
Rosen Centre Hotel
9840 International Drive
Orlando, FL 32819
2006 Annual Conference Schedule
Florida Conference East Conference
August 26 – Sept. 1, 2006 Oct. 21-27, 2006
Central Conference Bahamas Conference
Sept. 9-15, 2006 Nov. 9-12, 2006
South Conference Post Conference Planning Meeting
Sept. 23-29, 2006 Nov. 16-18, 2006
West Coast Conference African Sojourn
Oct. 7-13, 2006 Nov. 24-Dec. 7, 2006
5. FIRST ANNUAL ABBEVILLE-GREENWOOD DISTRICT (SEVENTH EPISCOPAL DISTRICT) AME SCHOLARSHIP BANQUET:
On Saturday, August 13, 2005, the African Methodist Episcopal Churches of the Abbeville-Greenwood District held their First Annual Scholarship Banquet. The event was held at the Mt. Zion AME Church Family Life Center at 122 New Zion Road located in the Promised Land Community of Greenwood, SC. This district is led by Rev. Oscar Aiken Klugh, who serves as the Presiding Elder for all AME Churches of the Abbeville, Greenwood and McCormick Counties of South Carolina.
Saturday’s Banquet was an evening in which the “ask, seek and knock” principle of the Bible was introduced to the lives of many promising young adults. Matthew 7:7 states, “ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you.” Consistent with this theme and during his tenure as Presiding Elder of the Greenville District, Elder Klugh organized similar annual scholarship banquets. In December 2004 upon his appointment to the Abbeville-Greenwood District, he decided to take their Educational Assistance Fund to a new level by implementing the first Abbeville-Greenwood Annual Scholarship Banquet. Throughout the year, Elder Klugh visited churches asking each pastor and their congregation to help make his vision a reality for the young adults desiring to pursue higher education. He knocked on the door of everyone’s hearts seeking their assistance for these scholarships and was welcomed in. in everyone's home
According to Presiding Elder Klugh, "It is a joy for our AME congregation to support the educational development of our young members through financial gifts in the form of yearly scholarships. We encourage our youth to continually strive forward in their knowledge of academics as well as in their knowledge of God. We strive to instill strong moral, educational, family, and community values within our young people and in this regard, the First Annual Abbeville-Greenwood Scholarship Banquet was a tremendous success. We welcome all our of fellow brothers and sisters of the Abbeville-Greenwood and other neighboring areas to join us at our next Annual Scholarship Banquet as well as in our church congregations and communities throughout the Abbeville-Greenwood District and the entire state of South Carolina."
Saturday night under the theme, “Young Adults Preparing Today to Build a Better tomorrow,” the entire district celebrated the culmination of their great efforts. Mrs. Emma Goodwin, the Banquet Scholarship Committee Chairperson, along with Mrs. Lori Brownlee-Brewton and Mr. Fletcher J. Pierce awarded 115 deserving young adults with scholarships ranging from $200-500. Of those students two received the Oscar Aiken Klugh Scholarship of $500, which is awarded to students attending Allen University located in Columbia, SC. Mrs. Jessie H. Bell was the Chairperson for the Scholarship Banquet and Rev. Judy Richardson and Mr. Joseph Brownlee were her co-Chairs. All scholarship monies were contributed by local AME Churches and area businesses.
The featured speaker of the evening was the Right Reverend Preston Warren Williams II, the Presiding Bishop of all AME Churches within the state of South Carolina, who stressed the importance of educating not only the clergy, but also all persons within the life and faith of the church. He delivered a powerful message entitled, “You Are Your Own Successor”, where he read from Daniel 6:10 stating that, “All roads of success start with God.” He proclaimed that, “Some of us are still lost on side paths – no longer on the main road of life because we have not sought God for direction.” He further asserted that, “You must always be better today than yesterday”, stressing the need for everyone to take their future seriously and to be willing to give the Lord what we have so that He may make us into the person that He wants us to be. In concluding, Bishop Williams’ words echoed with power from on high inspiring each person to “Never give up! For the Lord will come to make you strong. Do not be tricked by Satan when times get rough because it is at your weakest hour that God steps in and gives you your break through. Do not ever give up! Stay on God’s road of success!” The First Annual Abbeville-Greenwood Scholarship Banquet was an excellent step forward on that road of success.
The following officials also attended the banquet: Mr. Donald E. Robinson of Robinson & Son Funeral Home who gave a scholarship in memory of his parents, Mr. & Mrs. James Henry Robinson, the Honorable Edith S. Childs of the Greenwood County Council District I, Major Philip C. Anderson of the Greenwood County Sheriff’s Office, and the Honorable Anne Parks of the South Carolina House of Representatives District 12. Ms. Parks pledged a scholarship in memory of her mother, Mrs. Julie Parks. Also, the Democratic Gubernatorial Candidate Senator Tommy Moore attended the banquet and pledged a scholarship in honor of his friend Mr. Jesse Scott.
All scholarships are awarded to promising young students within the AME congregations of the Abbeville-Greenwood District. High school seniors heading to college as well as students already enrolled in undergraduate degree programs are eligible to apply. There are no restrictions to the student's subject area of study. Scholarships are awarded through an application process, which takes into consideration the student's grade point average, household income, number of persons living in the household, activities in church and school, as well as any financial assistance from other sources the student may be receiving.
To donate or apply to the Abbeville-Greenwood AME Scholarships please contact: Oscar A Klugh (864.941.6719) or (864.223.7897)
Article written by: Pastor Wanda R Aull and Benjamin Harrison
6. THE REVEREND DR. ROBERT STRODE SHARES HIS OPINION OF “THE BEST KEPT SECRET IN THE AME CHURCH”:
The Rev. Dr. Robert A. Strode, B.A., M. Div., D. Min.
Truth is not negotiable. Historical statements of fact are not open to question. When we read, for example, that Bishop Richard Allen purchased his own freedom we are obligated to believe it. Although none of us observed the transaction, we trust the historians for the fact of the matter.
After careful reading of the several documents or records of two African American institutions: St. John A.M.E. Church that was established in 1839 and Kentucky State University that was established in 1887 in Frankfort, Kentucky, both have a rich history that intertwines even today. Perhaps this relationship has virtually been a secret to the A.M.E. Church.
It is hard to think of the relationship of St. John A.M.E. Church and Kentucky State University without thinking of the Presidents of the University who either attended or held memberships in St. John. Presently, Dr. Mary Sias, the thirteenth president of KSU frequently attends and actively worships in the church. We as a church become a resource for the University for, potential students, faculty, administrative, and spiritual support.
The University in turn becomes a resource for the Church for educational, employment, and cultural exchange. Dr. Sias says, “We strive to offer the best education possible – providing students with the intellectual, leadership, and social tools today to fashion a successful future for themselves, their communities, and the nation.”
Dr. Mary L. Smith the eleventh President of Kentucky State University and first woman to hold the position is a steward of St. John and very active in providing spiritual leadership to the church. She served as President for seven years (1991-1998). A native of Hazlehurst, Mississippi, she is a graduate of Jackson State University from which she received a Bachelor of Science degree. She received a Master of Arts and a Doctor of Education degree from the University of Kentucky. Before joining Kentucky State University in 1970, she was Assistant Director of the Reading Clinic and Reading Instructor at Tuskegee University and taught in public schools in Tennessee, Mississippi and Kentucky. Upon her retirement from Kentucky State University in 1998 after serving there for 28 years, Dr. Smith was named President Emeritus and Faculty Emeritus by the KSU Board of Regents. She is currently writing her memoirs of her experiences as Kentucky State University’s first female president and the first African American female university president in Kentucky.
Kentucky State University presidents John H. Jackson, Rufus B. Atwood, William A. Butts and George W. Reid, were members of St. John.
Moreover, the A.M.E. Church has benefited from Kentucky State University and vice-versa. I am a graduate of Kentucky State University and serving as St. John’s pastor since 1998. The University has requested my ministerial skills at numerous ceremonial events and the University employs several of our members.
Finally, we are the host to the 138th Session of the Kentucky Annual Conference, September 12-17, 2005 under the dynamic leadership of Bishop Vashti Murphy McKenzie, Presiding Prelate of the 13th Episcopal District and Bro. Stan McKenzie, Supervisor of Missions. Yes, I am praying that “The Best Kept Secret in the A.M.E. Church” the relationship of St. John and Kentucky State University will be revealed.
7. THE AME CHURCH CAN “SUPPORT” THE SISTER STUDY:
The Sister Study needs 50,000 women whose sister had breast cancer to help find the causes of the disease, and the researchers cannot do it without the participation of African-American women.
The Sister Study researchers at the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, one of the National Institutes of Health of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services want to find out how genes and the environment may affect the chances of getting breast cancer.
Most of what researchers know about breast cancer risk comes from studies of mostly white women, and their results do not explain why some risks seem to be different for African-American women. Overall, black women are more likely to develop the disease at a younger age, have higher death rates due to the disease and often have tumors that are more aggressive. But why? The Sister Study research team is working to find the answer with your help.
Women between ages 35 and 74 are eligible if their sister had breast cancer, but they have never had breast cancer themselves.
How can you help? You can join the Sister Study or simply spread the word to other women about the study. Joining the Sister Study and learning more is easy. Just visit or call the hotline from 9 am to 9 pm ET, toll-free at 1-877-4-SISTER.
Woman by woman….Sister by sister…the A.M.E. Church can make a difference
8. THE AME CHURCH CAN “HELP” SUPPORT THE SISTER STUDY:
We have all been touched by breast cancer. Whether we have personally experienced the disease or have a relative, good girlfriend or co-worker who has dealt with the challenge head on – breast cancer can be devastating. In the midst of the uncertainty, it is reassuring to know there is hope on the horizon. In an effort to find the causes of breast cancer, the Sister Study is seeking the help of the A.M.E. Church.
The Sister Study is a nationwide research study, conducted by the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences of the National Institutes of Health of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, to learn how genes and the environment affect the chances of getting breast cancer. The study needs 50,000 women whose sister had breast cancer to help find the causes of the disease, and the researchers cannot do it without the participation of African-American women.
Most of what researchers know about breast cancer risk comes from studies of mostly white women, and their results do not explain why some risks seem to be different for African-American women. Overall, black women are more likely to develop the disease at a younger age, have higher death rates due to the disease and often have tumors that are more aggressive. The real question is why?
Is breast cancer caused by something women come in contact with at work, at home, in their communities or in the personal products they use? That is what the Sister Study research team is working hard to answer, and women of the A.M.E. Church can play an important role in this landmark breast cancer study.
Women who have already joined the study say they want to help fight the disease now, so that future generations of daughters, granddaughters and nieces do not have to experience the disease. Tina Hall joined the Sister Study as a tribute to her sister Wanda, a breast cancer survivor. “It’s really important for African-American women to participate in this study,” said Tina, “because they need to know what’s going on with their bodies.”
Women between ages 35 and 74 are eligible if their sister had breast cancer, but they have never had breast cancer themselves.
The Sister Study has made participation as convenient as possible. “At the beginning, women will answer some over-the-phone and written surveys and provide blood, urine, household dust and toenail samples,” said Dr. Dale Sandler, principal investigator of the Sister Study. "After that for about 10 years, we'll touch base once a year to learn about changes to their address, health or environment." She added, “The Sister Study does not require participants to take any medicine, undergo any medical treatments, or make any changes to their habits, diet or daily life.”
The Sister Study follows sound, ethical research practices, gives frequent study updates to participants and keeps all personal data private and confidential. The researchers for the study are primarily women.
The Sister Study has a number of active, nationwide partners including the Sisters Network, Inc., which addresses the breast health needs of African-American women, as well as the National Center on Minority Health and Health Disparities, American Cancer Society, the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation and the Y-ME National Breast Cancer Organization.
How can you help? If eligible, you can join the Sister Study or simply spread the word to other women about the study. Joining the Sister Study and obtaining information is easy. Just visit www.sisterstudy.org or call the hotline from 9 am to 9 pm ET, toll-free at 1-877-4-SISTER.
Woman by woman…Sister by sister – the AME Church can make a difference!
9. THE PASTOR’S CORNER: ACCOUNTABILITY, CREATIVITY, EFFECTIVENESS, GROWTH:
7That night God appeared to Solomon and said to him, “Ask for whatever you want me to give you.” 8Solomon answered God, 10”Give me wisdom and knowledge, that I may lead this people, for who is able to govern this great people of yours?” (II Chronicles 1: 7, 8, & 10)
The story of young king Solomon shows how God leads us through an ongoing repeating cycle of experiences through which He expresses His creation, governing, and redemption of the world. This cycle is one of accountability, creativity, effectiveness, and growth.
ACCOUNTABILITY
When God made Solomon king over all of Israel, Solomon prayed for wisdom so “I may lead this people.” Solomon held himself accountable for properly handling the duties of king. Solomon was saying, in other words, “God, I own this. ”
Extracted from The Capital (Annapolis) newspaper in an article written by Staff Writer Shantee Woodards
2. THE CHAPLAINS’ CORNER:
We have been extremely busy during PANAMAX.
Two things of significant note: The Commander of the Combined Joint Task Force 138 (PANAMAX) is Rear Admiral Smith, who is African-American.
Also, the Commodore of the American Navy assets (ships) is Captain (COL/0-6) Sinclair Harris, who is an AME and the cousin of Bishop John Bryant. I talked with Commodore Harris throughout the exercise and he told me about the days when his uncle, the late Bishop John Bryant, Sr., used to pastor Mother Bethel AME Church. Both officers are “sharp as tacks” and have a commanding presence. It was a proud moment to see "us" in charge.
The exercise officially ends tomorrow and I will be freed-up to do some writing as we head to the Eastern Caribbean. Until then, take care and God bless you!
Yours in Christ,
Chaplain Brown
3. ARTICLE IS TIME, MONEY. FINDING VALUES AND VALUE IN CHRONOS, KAIROS, AND "C.P. "TIME:
By Stephanie and Eric Stradford
Atlanta, GA, August 18, 2005 -- At one time or another, most folks have bought into the adage, "Time is Money." Last evening, Bible Study got started at about 7:11 -- eleven minutes late for some. For others, 7:11 might have been that long-awaited "wink from God" to play those numbers before the lotto window closes. Perhaps for the faithful, gathered at First African Methodist Episcopal Church here, 7:11 was the right time at the right place for a lesson on time.
The Reverend David Randolph Bishop, IV found comfort in prefacing his lesson on the value of children with some choice words on time--Kairos, Chronos, and, and for good measure, we'll throw in "C.P.” time. Just weeks before his "sudden death," The late Dr. Arthur Allen Fletcher, Father of the Affirmative Action Enforcement Movement, described a mystical "zone" as such. "When you are in your eighties, you are often in The Twilight Zone," he said.
At the same time, Kristen C. Simpson, a 16 year-young author at Ebenezer AME Church, was preparing readers for time-travel through her newly released book, "Messages From Above."
The quest for value takes a turn into the "C.P." time zone as AME preacher and Howard University filmmaker, Dr. Paula Matabane enlightens children of slavery about their Kairos value in her film, "Hair Like Wool, Feet Like Bronze." Get the book. See the film. Get an earth-shattering perspective on the old saying, "Time is money."
"Hair Like Wool, Feet Like Bronze" is not just a documentary; it investigates the "stony road" trod by descendants of Africa to arrive at a pre-ordained place in C.P. or Colored Peoples' time. Kairos, for the purpose of this observation, is cyclic. Before John the Revelator wrote Revelations, he walked with God in the form of Jesus the Christ.
Poetically recorded in the Gospel (truth) according to John, is an undisputable portrayal of Kairos time and the value of God's Word to the world, as we know it. "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was with God in the beginning." The Word, revealed through the writer, testified that Jesus evolved from the beginning of time and creation and he was not just created.
The ultimate transition from Kairos to Chronos time zones exposes the Word as a compounded value. The writer reveals in the 14th verse, "The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us."
The image of such a miracle was so powerful, that some of those empowered by the Word felt the need to hide it. In doing so, the powerful hoped to perpetuate an advantage over the powerless. The film "Hair Like Wool, Feet Like Bronze" presents is an empowering value for C.P. time. It presents startling evidence that Jesus was indeed "the brotha" from Africa" who operated simultaneously in Kairos and Chronos time zones.
"Chronos," for the purpose of this observation, is linear. It bases a measurable, quantitative timeline on two Kairos factors. B.C. suggests, (proves, accepts) lineage, preceding Immaculate Conception, evinced by the birth of Christ. A.D. denotes the culture-centric period, Anno Domini, or Year of the Lord Jesus Christ. Some scholars measure Chronos in "tick-tock time" rather than the immeasurable endowment of the Word of God as a value.
"Money" is a word, but not the Word. A Pennsylvania preacher wrote some words to the U.S. Secretary of the Treasury on November 13, 1861. Rev. M. R. Watkinson, Minister of the Gospel from Ridleyville, Pennsylvania, wrote:
"Dear Sir: You are about to submit your annual report to the Congress respecting the affairs of the national finances. One fact touching our currency has hitherto been seriously overlooked. I mean the recognition of the Almighty God in some form on our coins. You are probably a Christian. What if our Republic were not shattered beyond reconstruction? Would not the antiquaries of succeeding centuries rightly reason from our past that we were a heathen nation?"
In the short version, God's Kairos (timeless, cyclic) Word through His Chronos (tick-tock, linear) messenger Watkinson, endowed The United States Treasury with an immeasurable trust. The motto IN GOD WE TRUST was placed on United States coins largely because of increased Christian activism during the Civil War. As such, alternative World History might evince The Civil War as yet another strategic event in Chronos time, endowed by Kairos values.
Why did America engage in Civil War? What was the war to end all wars? What measurable value exists today as a result of lives lost in Korea, Vietnam, The Middle East, the war on "global terrorism," or for that matter, two wars against Great Britain for American independence? The indefinite words, "National Security" come to mind in valuing wars, rumors of war, and historic justifications for fighting them.
Whether you operate in Kairos, Chronos or CP, time has value. Made, borrowed or compounded the value of time increases. Spent, wasted, lost, or done, the value decreases.
Along Jesus' Chronos timeline, the disciples came to Jesus and asked, "Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?" He called a little child and had him stand among them for an historic lesson on the value of time. "I tell you the truth, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Therefore, whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven," according to the truth.
In less than forty modern-day years, Jesus established a system of spiritual, physical, social, and economic security based on a perpetual value. He suffered, bled, died, and rose just for me. Richard Allen knew it, so did his great-great nephew, Arthur Allen Fletcher. Now Kristen Simpson can tell you, it is no secret what God can do. As written in Matthew 18, "And whoever welcomes a little child like this in my name welcomes me. But if anyone causes one of these little ones who believe in me to sin, it would be better for him to have a large millstone hung around his neck and to be drowned in the depths of the sea."
4. THE 2005 SCHEDULE OF EVENTS OF THE ELEVENTH EPISCOPAL DISTRICT:
Annual Conference Schedules & Venues
Florida Conference (140th Session)
August 27 - September 2, 2005
Host Site: Bethel A.M.E. Church
501 West Orange Avenue
(850) 576-7501
Tallahassee, FL 32310
Host Pastor: The Rev. Semmeal Thomas
Host Church: Mt. Zion AME, Havana, FL
Host Pres. Elder: The Rev. Henry Griffin
August 27 Young People’s Division
August 28 Debutante Masters Commission (DMC)
August 29 Women’s Missionary Society (WMS)
August 30 - Sept. 2 Annual Conference Convenes - Opening - Business - Closing
Central Conference (106th Session)
September 17-23, 2005
Host Site: Allen Chapel A.M.E. Church
530 George W. Ingram Blvd
Daytona Beach, FL 32120
(386) 255-1195
Host Pastor: The Rev. Vincent Mitchell
Host Pres. Elder: The Rev. James O. Williams
September 17 Young People’s Division (YPD)
September 18 Debutante Masters Commission (DMC)
September 19 Women’s Missionary Society (WMS)
September 20-23 Annual Conference Convenes - Opening - Business - Closing
South Conference (115th Session)
October 1-7, 2005
Host Site: St. Paul A.M.E. Church
1892 NW 51st Terrace
Miami, FL 33142
(305) 634-3720
Host Pastor: The Rev. Michael Bouie
Host Pres. Elder: The Rev. John Bodison
October 1 Young People’s Division (YPD)
October 2 Debutante Masters Commission (DMC)
October 3 Women’s Missionary Society (WMS)
October 4-7 Annual Conference Convenes - Opening - Business - Closing
West Coast Conference (65th Session)
October 15-21, 2005
Host Site: New Bethel A.M.E. Church
2122 M. L. King Jr. Avenue
Lakeland, FL 33805
(863) 687-1994
Host Pastor: The Rev. Jimmy Thompson
Host Pres. Elder: The Rev. F. B. Lemon
October 15 Young People’s Division (YPD)
October 16 Debutante Masters Commission (DMC)
October 17 Women’s Missionary Society (WMS)
October 18-21 Annual Conference Convenes - Opening - Business - Closing
East Conference (130th Session)
October 29 - November 4, 2005
Host Site: St. Stephen A.M.E. Church
913 W. 5th Street
Jacksonville, FL 32209
(904) 354-5201
Host Pastor: The Rev. Michael Mitchell
Host Pres. Elder: The Rev. Dr. Robert L. Mitchell
October 29 Young People’s Division (YPD)
October 30 Debutante Masters Commission (DMC)
October 31 Women’s Missionary Society (WMS)
November 1-4 Annual Conference Convenes - Opening - Business – Closing
Bahamas Conference (66th Session)
November 16-20, 2005
Host Site: Robinson- Morris A.M.E. Church
P.O. Box SS6973
Nassau, Bahamas
(242) 356-2347
Host Pastor: The Rev. Howard Williamson
Host Pres. Elder: The Rev. Dr. Ranford Patterson
Nov. 16 Lay Organization
Nov. 17 Women’s Missionary Society (WMS)
Nov. 18 Annual Conference Convenes - Opening - Business - Closing
Nov. 19 Young People’s Division (YPD) / Debutante Master’s Commission (DMC)
Eleventh Episcopal District Planning Meeting
December 1-3, 2005
Double Tree Hotel
4500 W. Cypress Street
Tampa, FL 33607
813-879-4800-Phone
813-873-1832-Fax
Day of Sharing
Florida Conference South Conference East Conference
November 26, 2005 November 27, 2005 Dec. 17, 2005
2:00 p.m. 4:00 p.m. 3:00 p.m.
St. James A.M.E. St. James St. Matthew
Quincy, FL 32351 Liberty City, FL 33147 Jacksonville, FL 32254
(850) 526-3440 (305) 691-4212 (904) 388-6900
Rev. Lee Plummer, Pastor Rev. James Davis, Pastor Rev. Marcius King, Pastor
Central/West Coast
Dec. 18, 2005
4:00 p.m.
Hurst Chapel
Winter Haven, FL
(863) 293-6415
Rev. Ronnie Clark, Pastor
2006 Schedule of Events
Lay Organization Midyear MSA Retreat
Jan. 19-20 March 16-18 April 20-22
Winter Executive Board Rosen Centre Hotel TBD
Tallahassee, FL 9840 International Drive
Orlando, FL 32819
Rate: $110.00
Lay Org 62nd Annual Lay Convention Pres. Elder Retreat
April 27-29 June 20-23 July 14-15
Lay Dev. Training Retreat Florida Conference Rosen Centre Hotel
Tallahassee District 9840 International Dr.
CEC
July 17-20
Rosen Centre Hotel
9840 International Drive
Orlando, FL 32819
2006 Annual Conference Schedule
Florida Conference East Conference
August 26 – Sept. 1, 2006 Oct. 21-27, 2006
Central Conference Bahamas Conference
Sept. 9-15, 2006 Nov. 9-12, 2006
South Conference Post Conference Planning Meeting
Sept. 23-29, 2006 Nov. 16-18, 2006
West Coast Conference African Sojourn
Oct. 7-13, 2006 Nov. 24-Dec. 7, 2006
5. FIRST ANNUAL ABBEVILLE-GREENWOOD DISTRICT (SEVENTH EPISCOPAL DISTRICT) AME SCHOLARSHIP BANQUET:
On Saturday, August 13, 2005, the African Methodist Episcopal Churches of the Abbeville-Greenwood District held their First Annual Scholarship Banquet. The event was held at the Mt. Zion AME Church Family Life Center at 122 New Zion Road located in the Promised Land Community of Greenwood, SC. This district is led by Rev. Oscar Aiken Klugh, who serves as the Presiding Elder for all AME Churches of the Abbeville, Greenwood and McCormick Counties of South Carolina.
Saturday’s Banquet was an evening in which the “ask, seek and knock” principle of the Bible was introduced to the lives of many promising young adults. Matthew 7:7 states, “ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you.” Consistent with this theme and during his tenure as Presiding Elder of the Greenville District, Elder Klugh organized similar annual scholarship banquets. In December 2004 upon his appointment to the Abbeville-Greenwood District, he decided to take their Educational Assistance Fund to a new level by implementing the first Abbeville-Greenwood Annual Scholarship Banquet. Throughout the year, Elder Klugh visited churches asking each pastor and their congregation to help make his vision a reality for the young adults desiring to pursue higher education. He knocked on the door of everyone’s hearts seeking their assistance for these scholarships and was welcomed in. in everyone's home
According to Presiding Elder Klugh, "It is a joy for our AME congregation to support the educational development of our young members through financial gifts in the form of yearly scholarships. We encourage our youth to continually strive forward in their knowledge of academics as well as in their knowledge of God. We strive to instill strong moral, educational, family, and community values within our young people and in this regard, the First Annual Abbeville-Greenwood Scholarship Banquet was a tremendous success. We welcome all our of fellow brothers and sisters of the Abbeville-Greenwood and other neighboring areas to join us at our next Annual Scholarship Banquet as well as in our church congregations and communities throughout the Abbeville-Greenwood District and the entire state of South Carolina."
Saturday night under the theme, “Young Adults Preparing Today to Build a Better tomorrow,” the entire district celebrated the culmination of their great efforts. Mrs. Emma Goodwin, the Banquet Scholarship Committee Chairperson, along with Mrs. Lori Brownlee-Brewton and Mr. Fletcher J. Pierce awarded 115 deserving young adults with scholarships ranging from $200-500. Of those students two received the Oscar Aiken Klugh Scholarship of $500, which is awarded to students attending Allen University located in Columbia, SC. Mrs. Jessie H. Bell was the Chairperson for the Scholarship Banquet and Rev. Judy Richardson and Mr. Joseph Brownlee were her co-Chairs. All scholarship monies were contributed by local AME Churches and area businesses.
The featured speaker of the evening was the Right Reverend Preston Warren Williams II, the Presiding Bishop of all AME Churches within the state of South Carolina, who stressed the importance of educating not only the clergy, but also all persons within the life and faith of the church. He delivered a powerful message entitled, “You Are Your Own Successor”, where he read from Daniel 6:10 stating that, “All roads of success start with God.” He proclaimed that, “Some of us are still lost on side paths – no longer on the main road of life because we have not sought God for direction.” He further asserted that, “You must always be better today than yesterday”, stressing the need for everyone to take their future seriously and to be willing to give the Lord what we have so that He may make us into the person that He wants us to be. In concluding, Bishop Williams’ words echoed with power from on high inspiring each person to “Never give up! For the Lord will come to make you strong. Do not be tricked by Satan when times get rough because it is at your weakest hour that God steps in and gives you your break through. Do not ever give up! Stay on God’s road of success!” The First Annual Abbeville-Greenwood Scholarship Banquet was an excellent step forward on that road of success.
The following officials also attended the banquet: Mr. Donald E. Robinson of Robinson & Son Funeral Home who gave a scholarship in memory of his parents, Mr. & Mrs. James Henry Robinson, the Honorable Edith S. Childs of the Greenwood County Council District I, Major Philip C. Anderson of the Greenwood County Sheriff’s Office, and the Honorable Anne Parks of the South Carolina House of Representatives District 12. Ms. Parks pledged a scholarship in memory of her mother, Mrs. Julie Parks. Also, the Democratic Gubernatorial Candidate Senator Tommy Moore attended the banquet and pledged a scholarship in honor of his friend Mr. Jesse Scott.
All scholarships are awarded to promising young students within the AME congregations of the Abbeville-Greenwood District. High school seniors heading to college as well as students already enrolled in undergraduate degree programs are eligible to apply. There are no restrictions to the student's subject area of study. Scholarships are awarded through an application process, which takes into consideration the student's grade point average, household income, number of persons living in the household, activities in church and school, as well as any financial assistance from other sources the student may be receiving.
To donate or apply to the Abbeville-Greenwood AME Scholarships please contact: Oscar A Klugh (864.941.6719) or (864.223.7897)
Article written by: Pastor Wanda R Aull and Benjamin Harrison
6. THE REVEREND DR. ROBERT STRODE SHARES HIS OPINION OF “THE BEST KEPT SECRET IN THE AME CHURCH”:
The Rev. Dr. Robert A. Strode, B.A., M. Div., D. Min.
Truth is not negotiable. Historical statements of fact are not open to question. When we read, for example, that Bishop Richard Allen purchased his own freedom we are obligated to believe it. Although none of us observed the transaction, we trust the historians for the fact of the matter.
After careful reading of the several documents or records of two African American institutions: St. John A.M.E. Church that was established in 1839 and Kentucky State University that was established in 1887 in Frankfort, Kentucky, both have a rich history that intertwines even today. Perhaps this relationship has virtually been a secret to the A.M.E. Church.
It is hard to think of the relationship of St. John A.M.E. Church and Kentucky State University without thinking of the Presidents of the University who either attended or held memberships in St. John. Presently, Dr. Mary Sias, the thirteenth president of KSU frequently attends and actively worships in the church. We as a church become a resource for the University for, potential students, faculty, administrative, and spiritual support.
The University in turn becomes a resource for the Church for educational, employment, and cultural exchange. Dr. Sias says, “We strive to offer the best education possible – providing students with the intellectual, leadership, and social tools today to fashion a successful future for themselves, their communities, and the nation.”
Dr. Mary L. Smith the eleventh President of Kentucky State University and first woman to hold the position is a steward of St. John and very active in providing spiritual leadership to the church. She served as President for seven years (1991-1998). A native of Hazlehurst, Mississippi, she is a graduate of Jackson State University from which she received a Bachelor of Science degree. She received a Master of Arts and a Doctor of Education degree from the University of Kentucky. Before joining Kentucky State University in 1970, she was Assistant Director of the Reading Clinic and Reading Instructor at Tuskegee University and taught in public schools in Tennessee, Mississippi and Kentucky. Upon her retirement from Kentucky State University in 1998 after serving there for 28 years, Dr. Smith was named President Emeritus and Faculty Emeritus by the KSU Board of Regents. She is currently writing her memoirs of her experiences as Kentucky State University’s first female president and the first African American female university president in Kentucky.
Kentucky State University presidents John H. Jackson, Rufus B. Atwood, William A. Butts and George W. Reid, were members of St. John.
Moreover, the A.M.E. Church has benefited from Kentucky State University and vice-versa. I am a graduate of Kentucky State University and serving as St. John’s pastor since 1998. The University has requested my ministerial skills at numerous ceremonial events and the University employs several of our members.
Finally, we are the host to the 138th Session of the Kentucky Annual Conference, September 12-17, 2005 under the dynamic leadership of Bishop Vashti Murphy McKenzie, Presiding Prelate of the 13th Episcopal District and Bro. Stan McKenzie, Supervisor of Missions. Yes, I am praying that “The Best Kept Secret in the A.M.E. Church” the relationship of St. John and Kentucky State University will be revealed.
7. THE AME CHURCH CAN “SUPPORT” THE SISTER STUDY:
The Sister Study needs 50,000 women whose sister had breast cancer to help find the causes of the disease, and the researchers cannot do it without the participation of African-American women.
The Sister Study researchers at the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, one of the National Institutes of Health of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services want to find out how genes and the environment may affect the chances of getting breast cancer.
Most of what researchers know about breast cancer risk comes from studies of mostly white women, and their results do not explain why some risks seem to be different for African-American women. Overall, black women are more likely to develop the disease at a younger age, have higher death rates due to the disease and often have tumors that are more aggressive. But why? The Sister Study research team is working to find the answer with your help.
Women between ages 35 and 74 are eligible if their sister had breast cancer, but they have never had breast cancer themselves.
How can you help? You can join the Sister Study or simply spread the word to other women about the study. Joining the Sister Study and learning more is easy. Just visit or call the hotline from 9 am to 9 pm ET, toll-free at 1-877-4-SISTER.
Woman by woman….Sister by sister…the A.M.E. Church can make a difference
8. THE AME CHURCH CAN “HELP” SUPPORT THE SISTER STUDY:
We have all been touched by breast cancer. Whether we have personally experienced the disease or have a relative, good girlfriend or co-worker who has dealt with the challenge head on – breast cancer can be devastating. In the midst of the uncertainty, it is reassuring to know there is hope on the horizon. In an effort to find the causes of breast cancer, the Sister Study is seeking the help of the A.M.E. Church.
The Sister Study is a nationwide research study, conducted by the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences of the National Institutes of Health of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, to learn how genes and the environment affect the chances of getting breast cancer. The study needs 50,000 women whose sister had breast cancer to help find the causes of the disease, and the researchers cannot do it without the participation of African-American women.
Most of what researchers know about breast cancer risk comes from studies of mostly white women, and their results do not explain why some risks seem to be different for African-American women. Overall, black women are more likely to develop the disease at a younger age, have higher death rates due to the disease and often have tumors that are more aggressive. The real question is why?
Is breast cancer caused by something women come in contact with at work, at home, in their communities or in the personal products they use? That is what the Sister Study research team is working hard to answer, and women of the A.M.E. Church can play an important role in this landmark breast cancer study.
Women who have already joined the study say they want to help fight the disease now, so that future generations of daughters, granddaughters and nieces do not have to experience the disease. Tina Hall joined the Sister Study as a tribute to her sister Wanda, a breast cancer survivor. “It’s really important for African-American women to participate in this study,” said Tina, “because they need to know what’s going on with their bodies.”
Women between ages 35 and 74 are eligible if their sister had breast cancer, but they have never had breast cancer themselves.
The Sister Study has made participation as convenient as possible. “At the beginning, women will answer some over-the-phone and written surveys and provide blood, urine, household dust and toenail samples,” said Dr. Dale Sandler, principal investigator of the Sister Study. "After that for about 10 years, we'll touch base once a year to learn about changes to their address, health or environment." She added, “The Sister Study does not require participants to take any medicine, undergo any medical treatments, or make any changes to their habits, diet or daily life.”
The Sister Study follows sound, ethical research practices, gives frequent study updates to participants and keeps all personal data private and confidential. The researchers for the study are primarily women.
The Sister Study has a number of active, nationwide partners including the Sisters Network, Inc., which addresses the breast health needs of African-American women, as well as the National Center on Minority Health and Health Disparities, American Cancer Society, the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation and the Y-ME National Breast Cancer Organization.
How can you help? If eligible, you can join the Sister Study or simply spread the word to other women about the study. Joining the Sister Study and obtaining information is easy. Just visit www.sisterstudy.org or call the hotline from 9 am to 9 pm ET, toll-free at 1-877-4-SISTER.
Woman by woman…Sister by sister – the AME Church can make a difference!
9. THE PASTOR’S CORNER: ACCOUNTABILITY, CREATIVITY, EFFECTIVENESS, GROWTH:
7That night God appeared to Solomon and said to him, “Ask for whatever you want me to give you.” 8Solomon answered God, 10”Give me wisdom and knowledge, that I may lead this people, for who is able to govern this great people of yours?” (II Chronicles 1: 7, 8, & 10)
The story of young king Solomon shows how God leads us through an ongoing repeating cycle of experiences through which He expresses His creation, governing, and redemption of the world. This cycle is one of accountability, creativity, effectiveness, and growth.
ACCOUNTABILITY
When God made Solomon king over all of Israel, Solomon prayed for wisdom so “I may lead this people.” Solomon held himself accountable for properly handling the duties of king. Solomon was saying, in other words, “God, I own this. ”
· Outcomes – the results of the effort or situation
· Solutions – the addressing of the problems to achieve the desired outcomes
· Effectiveness – what we wanted compared to what we got.
Accountability is being able to say “Yes” or “No” and meaning it. We must be careful not to say “no” to everything. If one says no to everything, one is not accountable for anything; therefore, one’s voice (expression of the life of God) speaks nothing! “For what do I hold myself accountable? For what do I stand before God and say, ‘God, I own this?”
CREATIVITY
Persons who hold themselves accountable are persons who find creative ways of producing the desired results. Solomon asked for wisdom. Wisdom is the expression of the mind of God through our thoughts, words, and deeds. In Genesis 1: 1-3, 6, (9, 11), (14, 20), 24, (26-27) we find God expressing His mind, as described by the phrase, “And God said…” Whenever God expresses His mind, something is created. As we ask God for the wisdom to fulfill the role He has given us to fulfill, God expresses His mind through our thoughts, words, and deeds. Our creativity is “The expression of the mind of God.” “How is God expressing His creative power through my life? Am I asking God for wisdom to do what God has given me to do?”
EFFECTIVENESS
A practical definition of effectiveness is, “What we wanted compared to what we got.”
Effectiveness is the measure of consistency between the desired outcomes and actual outcomes. Solomon’s blessings far exceeded his requested desires (II Chronicles 1: 11-13). When we turn our lives over to God and ask His wisdom for living, we get so much more than we asked for:
· I Corinthians 12: 27 – We become the very body of Jesus Christ in this world.
· I Corinthians 12: 4-11 – The Holy Spirit manifests the expression of God through our daily lives.
· Galatians 5: 22-23 – We bear the fruit of His presence through our living.
“How effective am I at being a father, mother, husband, wife, church member, employee, employer, neighbor, friend, man, or woman? Do the actual results measure up to the desired outcomes?”
GROWTH
Growth is the expansion of the kingdom of God in my life and in the world around me. Real growth glorifies God in the circumstances and tasks over which God has given me dominion. Solomon was made king of Israel by the hand of God (II Chronicles 1: 1). Solomon glorified God through the effective leadership he provided the people of Israel (II Chronicles 1: 14-2: 2). Hiram, king of Tyre said of Solomon, “Praise be to the Lord, the God of Israel, who made heaven and earth! He has given King David a wise son, endowed with intelligence and discernment…” (II Chronicles 2: 12) “Does my life glorify God? Do others recognize God’s creative power expressed through my living so that others know that God is real?”
God leads us through an ongoing repeating cycle of experiences, through which He expresses His creation, governing, and redemption of the world. This cycle is one of accountability, creativity, effectiveness, and growth. It all begins with accountability. It all begins when we say, “God, I own it!”
Pastor Moody
Quinn Chapel, Chicago
10. DEATH NOTICE:
Regretfully we share the following notice:
From: whowardsmith7@yahoo.com
Mrs. Annie Reynolds "Tiny" Harlan, the mother of Nancy Kendrick, and Walretta Chandler, the grand mother of the Rev. Lisa Hammonds (pastor of Hopewell AMEC, Columbia, TN), Nicole Chandler, Walter Samuel Chandler and Joi Lynn Hammonds passed following a brief illness on Thursday morning, August 18th.
Service Arrangements: Tuesday, August 23, 2005
St. John AME Church
1822 Formosa Street
Nashville, TN 37208 615-320-1026 (Phone)
Family Visitation: 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
The Funeral is immediately following
The Rev. Antoni Sinkfield, Pastor, officiating
Internment:
Wednesday, August 24, 2005
11:00 a.m.
Middle Tennessee Veterans Cemetery
Pegram, TN
Services are entrusted to:
Johnson's House of Atena
1107 Buchanan St.
Nashville, TN 37208
(615) 254 - 3572 (Phone)
(615) 242- 5324 Fax
Please remember the family in your prayers.
11. BEREAVEMENT ANNOUNCEMENTS PROVIDED BY:
Bishop Carolyn Tyler Guidry, Chair
Commission on Social Action Clergy Family Information Center
Mrs. Ora L. Easley - Administrator Email: Amespouses1@aol.com
(Nashville, Tennessee Contact) Phone: (615) 837-9736 Fax: (615) 833-3781
(Memphis, Tennessee Contact) (901) 578-4554 (Phone & Fax)
Please remember these families in your prayers.
12. 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.
