1. IN MEMORY:
Today’s edition of The Christian Recorder Online is dedicated to the memory of Bishop Cornelious Egbert Thomas (May 4, 1917 – December 6, 2004)
This dedicatory article is late. The Editor of The Christian Recorder was ill during the funeral of Bishop Thomas and time just “got away” and the days passed… We offer our apologies to the Thomas family. This article will also appear in The Christian Recorder.
Bishop Cornelious Egbert Thomas is gone, but not forgotten. He was a faithful man of God who was loved by all who worked and served with him. He had a stellar ministry and was a man of significant gifts. He is missed.
Bishop Cornelious Egbert Thomas was a man who loved God and man who loved to pray. It was part of his daily activities. Mrs. Clara Walton, the Administrative Assistant to the Publisher of the AMEC Publishing House, fondly recalls the prayer discipline of Bishop Thomas when he served as the presiding prelate of the Thirteenth Episcopal District. “When Bishop Thomas was the Bishop of the Thirteenth, he would stop by that chapel (AMEC Publishing House Chapel) everyday before going into his office.” She went on to say, “He would get on his knees and have an “old fashioned prayer meeting” by himself. He was faithful to prayer.”
Bishop Thomas was also a lover of hymns. His reputation for hymnody is legend around the church. Bishop Thomas could show the congregation how a hymn should be sung. His life exemplified a life-long love affair with African Methodism.
Bishop Cornelious Egbert Thomas was born in Hamburg, Alabama to the late James and Serena Thomas. He attended elementary and high school in the Perry County (Alabama) school system. Bishop Thomas had a love for education and with determination, graduated from Daniel Payne College in Birmingham, Alabama with an A.B. degree. He went on to earn the Master of Divinity degree from Gammon Theological Seminary in Atlanta, Georgia.
Bishop Thomas met the love of his life, Susie Jamar and they were married on September 16, 1947. To that union two children were born, Cornelia and James Egbert. Upon his death they had been married over 58 years.
Bishop Thomas was called to preach and answered his call to ministry after moving to Birmingham. He joined Bethel AME Church in Ensley and was licensed to preach after answering his call to ministry. He proclaimed the powerful, prophetic Word of God with urgency, and presented God’s gospel in a challenging way.
His first pastorate was at St. Mark A.M.E. Church, Ensley. He also served congregations on the Flat Top Circuit (Woods Chapel and St. Paul) and Bethel A.M.E. Church, Ensley. He was appointed as the 37th pastor of St. John AME Church, Birmingham, Alabama in 1952. He pastored that church for twenty four years.
During his pastorate at St. John, he won numerous souls to Christ, retired a huge mortgage, remodeled and renovated the church structure. He developed and organized the first African American federally chartered credit union in the State of Alabama, instituted a thriving early childhood development center and served as a member of the Board of Directors of the Citizen’s Federal Savings and Loan Association. In the decade of the 1960’s, Bishop Thomas led St. John A.M.E. Church in a massive capital campaign drive. And in 1971, a $1.1 million edifice was erected and dedicated on the corner of 15th Street and 7th Avenue North.
His numerous and civic and social affiliations cultivated the extension of worship beyond the church edifice and reached into the city jail, and beyond. During the Civil Rights’ Movement he stood firmly for justice and equality. He also played a role in reaching out to the victims of the racially motivated bombings at Sixteenth Street Baptist Church where four little black girls were murdered and other children and adults were injured.
The Reverend Cornelious Egbert Thomas was elected the 99th bishop of the African Methodist Episcopal Church at the 40th Quadrennial Session of the General Conference of the African Methodists Episcopal Church that was held in Atlanta, Georgia.
Bishop Thomas served as the presiding prelate of the 17th Episcopal District (Central Africa), the 13th Episcopal District (Tennessee and Kentucky) and the 9th Episcopal District (Alabama).
As bishop of the 17th Episcopal District, he redeemed a 560-acre farm and Episcopal Residence at a cost of $150,000. In Zimbabwe, he established a secondary school consisting of eleven modern buildings located on fifteen acres, with over 1,000 students. In the 13th Episcopal District, Bishop Thomas left and Expansion Fund of over $100,000.
I fondly remember Bishop Thomas and recall when I was in the Army and stationed at Fort Hood, Texas, I was planning to attend the Kentucky Annual Conference. The Annual Conference was going to be held in Paducah, Kentucky, but I found out, at the last minute, that the annual conference date had been moved to a week earlier. I called Bishop Thomas immediately; it was the day before the start of the rescheduled annual conference. I asked Bishop Thomas if I could be excused and told him that I would overnight my financial obligations. He quickly responded, “Ah, chaplain, don’t worry about it, I will put in your offerings.” I responded, “Thank you, Bishop, but I will overnight the money and address the envelope to you. Do you have the church address?” Bishop Thomas responded, “I am not going to give it to you. Don’t worry about it. Chaplain, we will take care of you.” I have never forgotten his kindness and giving spirit and I have tried to pass that on.
In 1989, Bishop Thomas was assigned to serve the people of Alabama. He did a number of great things. He was kind and pastoral. He was a shepherd to his preachers. Under his astute leadership, the entire $1.5 million debt of Daniel Payne College was retired. Bishop Thomas was a committed professional and a sincere man of God.
Bishop Thomas made his transition from these “mundane” shores to God’s “celestial shores” on Monday, December 4, 2005.
Bishop Cornelious Egbert Thomas is survived by his wife, Susie Jamar Thomas, a daughter, Cornelia T. Jordan, a son, James Egbert Thomas (Dawn), two grandchildren, Cornelious Egbert Thomas II and James Michael Thomas and a host of nieces, nephews, family and friends.
2. AN INVITATION FROM THE RAYC TO ATTEND HIS SUMMER’S 2005 YOUNG ADULT CONCLAVE, JUNE 23-26, 2005 IN LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA:
Greeting to you in Jesus Joy!
We are quickly approaching a new year in the work of Young Adult Ministries. It is our hope each of you will consider being a part of the Richard Allen Young Adult Council. Additionally, we are personally inviting you to be present at the 2005 Young Adult Conclave, June 23-26, 2005 in Los Angels, CA. Do you need an oil change in you spiritual life? Come and get you oil change as we have chosen for a theme: “Anoint Us with Fresh Oil. The conclave will be a life changing experience for all. You are now able to register for the conclave and make your hotel reservations on our website: www.rayac.org. (If you have any questions you may also email us at rayacinfo@rayac.org you will receive an answer within 48 hours.)
Upon going to the website you will see more information on the RAYAC, Interactive activities and opportunity to ask the Leadership of the RAYAC about a variety of issues surrounding young adults.
For those persons that do not have internet access you may feel free to contact the RAYAC Office at: 414-358-3022.
Editor's Comment: We love to get information well-ahead of the event. The RAYC is to be commended. Please mark your calendars now.
3. INFORMATION ABOUT THIS SUMMER’S 2005 YOUNG ADULT CONCLAVE, JUNE 23-26, 2005 IN LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA. THEME: “ANOINTING, FOR A NEW GENERATION OF AME’S”:
Written by: Bro. Karion E. Hogan
When looking up the word “conclave” on the Merriam - Webster Online Dictionary, We were given the definition “a gathering of a group or organization”. The Richard Allen Young Adult Council is sponsoring the “Young Adult Conclave” in Los Angeles, CA June 23-26, 2005. This will be a gathering of young adults from throughout the Connectional African Methodist Episcopal Church seeking a refreshing from the Lord. The theme, “Anoint Us with Fresh Oils” speaks to the young adult population of our Zion that is seeking a fresh outpouring of the Holy Spirit and those who are thirsty for the presence of God.
While the Conclave is designed to draw young adults between the ages of 18-39 to Los Angeles, we invite anyone who is interested in ascending to a higher dimension in God. The goal of this meeting is for those who already know the Lord to leave Los Angeles forever changed and for those who are unsaved to meet and embrace Jesus and His salvation power.
This four - day meeting will be hosted by the Fifth Episcopal District and the Los Angels AME Churches under the Leadership of Bishop and Rev. John Bryant. The dynamic workshops and power packed, spirit - filled worship services will take place at the Westin Hotel at the Los Angels Airport. The Preacher for the Opening worship will be the Rev. Terrence Gray, the newly appointed Pastor of St. Mark AME Church Orlando, Florida. The weekend will also include several skill shops, with topics including but not limited to Spiritual connection with God, Financial freedom, Family life, and leadership in local churches, an upscale social event and a Cultural Extravaganza, which will be an evening dedicated to displaying the rich and diverse cultures of this Southern California Region.
During the meeting, there will be an opportunity to tour the Greater Los Angeles area to experience the fine dining, shopping, and tourist attractions. Manhattan Beach, Hollywood, and Beverly Hills are all in close proximity to the Westin LAX there will be vendors that will provide various items on-site. The registration fee for this spirit-filled event is $135 (Which includes entrance to all workshops, kit, seminars, and two meal functions). To register for the Young Adult Conclave or for more information, please go to www.rayac.org.
Submitted by Tanya V. Phillips and Karion E. Hogan, General Chairpersons
Jerry Turner, Jr. Connectional President
Bishop Robert V. Webster, Commission
ChairDr. Daryl Ingram, Executive Secretary
4. THE EIGHTEENTH EPISCOPAL DISTRICT WEBSITE IS “UP AND RUNNING:
Please check http://www.18thdistrictamec.org/ to see what Bishop Sarah Davis and Episcopal Supervisor Claytie Davis are doing in Lesotho, Botswana, Swaziland and Mozambique.
5. THE FIRST EPISCOPAL DISTRICT WEBSITE IS “UP AND RUNNING”:
http://www.firstdistrictame.com/html/district.htm
6. THE EDITOR’S CORNER:
Today, I had two interesting conversations about whether or not Stewards or Licentiates could serve communion. The issue is not who consecrates the elements of communion, only ordained Itinerate Elders can, but who is authorized to serve it according to The Discipline. I was always taught that one could not participate in the handling of the elements of Communion until after being ordained a deacon. I went back and looked carefully at The Discipline and spoke with two bishops…
(Read more discussion on this in The Christian Recorder)
And if you want to participate in the discussion, email your comments to me at chsydnor@bellsouth.net . Please no anonymous comments.
7. THE THIRTEENTH EPISCOPAL DISTRICT FOUNDER’S DAY:
We will be on our way tomorrow morning to the Thirteenth Episcopal District Founder’s Day Celebration that will be held in Memphis, Tennessee.
8. THE PASSING OF SISTER DOROTHY BENDER, MOTHER OF SISTER PAT JOHNSON, WIFE OF PRESDING ELDER JOHNSON, PRESDING ELDER OF THE LEXINGTON DISTRICT (KENTUCKY ANNUAL CONFERENCE):
It is with much sadness that we report that Presiding Elder Ralph Johnson's Mother-In-Law passed Tuesday, February 8th, at 11:30 a.m.
Please remember Sister Pat, Presiding Elder, and all of the family, as they walk by faith through the grieving process.
The Homegoing Celebration of Mrs. Dorothy Bender is scheduled for Friday, February 11, 2005 at 12 noon, at First Baptist Church, 290 East Winchester Street, Gallatin, Tennessee 37066.
The arrangements are being cared for by Johnson-Coleman Funeral Home, 723 Anthony Street, Gallatin, Tennessee 37066 - (615) 452-2060.
9. FUNERAL NOTICES FROM THE FIRST EPISCOPAL DISTRICT:
We regret to inform you of the passing of the following persons in the First Episcopal District:
- Frank Wade, the father of Rev. Carl Wade, Pastor at Bethel AME Church, Camden, New Jersey.
All Services will be held Saturday, February 12, 2005
Viewing - 9:00 am - 11:00 a.m.
Masonic Service - 10:00 a.m.
Funeral Service - 11:00 am
Mt. Zion AME Church
135 Perry Street
Trenton, NJ 08618
Rev. J. Stanley Justice, Pastor
Church Phone: 609-695-4475
Condolences may be sent to:
Mrs. Mary Alliene Wade
221 Revfrew Ave.
Trenton, NJ 08618
Or
Rev. Carl Wade
24 Newell Ave.
Trenton, NJ 08618
- Ruth Daniels, the wife of the late, retired Rev. David Daniels, who was a pastor in the Philadelphia Conference of the First Episcopal District.Services will be held Saturday, February 12, 2005
Viewing - 9:00 - 10:00 a.m.
Funeral Service - 10:00 a.m.
Hickman Temple AME Church
5001 Baltimore Avenue
Philadelphia, PA 19143
Rev. Vernal E. Simms, Pastor
Church Phone: 215-476-5340
Condolences may be sent to:
Family of Ruth Danielsc/o Ms. Karen Booker738 E. Providence RoadAldan, PA 19018
- The Reverend James T. Frederick, an associate minister at Mother Bethel AME Church and the father of Ramona Brown.
Services will be held Thursday, February 10, 2005
Viewing - 9:00 am- 11:00 a.m.
Funeral Service - 11:00 a.m.
Mother Bethel AME Church
419 Richard Allen Avenue
Philadelphia, PA 19147
Rev. Jeffrey Leath, Pastor
Church Phone: 215-925-0616
Please remember the Wade, the Daniels and the Frederick families in your prayers during this time of their bereavement.
10. ALL BEREAVEMENT NOTICES ARE SUBMITTED BY:
God Bless!Ora L. Easley, President
CONN-M-SWAWO +PK'SEmail: Amespouses1@aol.com
Phone: (615) 837-9736Fax: (615) 833-3781
WEB SITES: http://www.amemswwpk.org/
CONN-M-SWAWO + P.K.'S Home Page: http://connmswawo3.com/
AME Church Clergy Family Forumhttp://connmswawo3.com/membership.html
CONN-M-SWAWO + P.K.'S Membership Listing
Archive of The Christian Recorder Online from 2004-2016; Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III, 20th Editor of The Christian Recorder
2/09/2005
2/07/2005
THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER ONLINE (2/7/05)
1. THE EDITOR’S CORNER:
Synopsis of the life of Bishop Richard Allen
Richard Allen was born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania on February 14, 1760. He was converted when he was seventeen years old and licensed to preach when he was 22. He was 27 years old when he and the other blacks walked out of St. George’s Methodist Episcopal Church. He was 40 years old when he was ordained a deacon by Bishop Francis Asbury. He was consecrated a bishop (1816) when he was 56 years old. The first A.M.E. Hymnal was published in 1818. Bishop Morris Brown was elected bishop-assistant to Bishop Allen at the General Conference held in Philadelphia in 1828. Bishop Allen died on March 31, 1831.
Richard Allen on His Conversion
I was a child and lived with him (Benjamin Chew) until I was upwards of twenty years of age, during which time I was awakened and brought to see myself, poor, wretched and undone, and without the mercy of God must be lost. Shortly after, I obtained mercy through the blood of Christ, and was constrained to exhort my old companions to seek the Lord. I went rejoicing for several days and was happy in the Lord, in conversing with many old, experienced Christians. I was brought under doubts, and was tempted to believe I was deceived, and was constrained to seek the Lord afresh. I went with my head bowed down for many days. My sins were a heavy burden. I was tempted to believe there was no mercy for me. I cried to the Lord both day and night. One night I thought hell would be my portion. I cried unto Him who delighteth to hear the prayers of a poor sinner, and all of a sudden my dungeon shook, my chains flew off, and glory to God, I cried. My soul was filled. I cried, enough for me-the Savior died. Now my confidence was strengthened that the Lord, for Christ’s sake, had heard my prayers and pardoned my sins.
Richard Allen on His Response to His Conversion
I was constrained to go from house to house, exhorting my old companions, and telling to all around what a dear Savior I had found. I joined the Methodist Society and met in class at Benjamin Wells’s, in the forest, Delaware state. John Gray was the class leader. I met in his class for several years.
Richard Allen Explains Why He and the Other Blacks Left St. George’s M.E. Church
A number of us usually attended St. George’s Church in Fourth Street; and when the colored people began to get numerous in attending the church, they moved us from the seats we usually sat on, and placed us around the wall, and on Sabbath morning we went to church and the sexton stood at the door, and told us to go in the gallery. He told us to go, and we would see where to sit. We expected to take the seats over the ones we formerly occupied below, not knowing any better. We took those seats. Meeting had begun, and they were nearly done singing, and just as we got to the seats, the elder said, “Let us pray.” We had not been long on our knees before I heard considerable scuffling and low talking. I raised my head up and saw one of the trustees, H—M--, having hold of the Rev. Absalom Jones, pulling him up off of his knees, and saying, “You must get up –you must not kneel here.” Mr. Jones replied, “Wait until the prayer is over.” Mr. H--M—said, “No, you must get up now, or I will call for aid and force you away.” Mr. Jones said, “Wait until prayer is over, and I will get up and trouble you no more.” With that he beckoned to one of the other trustees, Mr. L—S—to come to his assistance. He came, and went to William White to pull him up. By this time prayer was over, and we all sent out of the church in a body, and they were no more plagued with us in the church. This raised a great excitement and inquiry among the citizens, in so much that I believe they were ashamed of their conduct. But my dear Lord was with us, and we were filled with fresh vigor to get a house erected to worship God in.
The passages above were extracted from, The Experience and Gospel labors of The Rt. Rev. Richard Allen, written by Richard Allen, himself, with a Preface by Dr. A. Lee Henderson.
Dr. A. Lee Henderson encouraged all people to read the book written by Richard Allen. He shared that Bishop Allen, born a slave, “…freed himself from the tyranny of segregation to establish the first African Methodist Episcopal Church in God’s Kingdom.” Dr. Henderson wrote in the Introduction, “Richard Allen was the first ordained preacher of African descent in America, and was elected in absentia. Both he and Daniel Coker were elected the first day, but when Allen appeared the second day he took the position that two bishops were not needed at the time of organization. Coker resigned and Allen was set apart.”
The experience and Gospel labors of The Rt. Rev. Richard Allen is published by the AMEC Sunday School Union, Nashville, Tennessee and may be purchased by calling 1-800-648-8724 and make your payment using your credit card. The book will be sent to you immediately. Or you may send your check for $5.60 and the book will be mailed to you.
The AMEC Sunday School Union
500 8th Avenue South
Nashville, TN 37203.
Editor’s Comment: I would hope that every AME minister and every layperson has or will purchase a copy of this modestly priced book.
Editor’s Comment: I have attended Founder’s Day observances and note that sometimes, Bishop Richard Allen’s name is not mentioned. When I was growing up, I used to hear Richard Allen’s name, from time to time, mentioned in sermons. I don’t hear as much today about Richard Allen as I used to hear in church in worship services.
On behalf of the Rt. Reverend Gregory G.M. Ingram, Chair, Commission on Publications and the Reverend Dr. Johnny Barbour, Jr., Publisher, we encourage all clergy and laity go back to "our roots" and look anew to the life of Richard Allen and the other early leaders of the African Methodist Episcopal Church. Their struggles are ours; though many things change, there are many struggles that remain the same.
The Sunday School Union has a number of excellent books, e.g., The Romance of African Methodism written by the late Dr. George Singleton, A Liberated Past: Explorations in AME Church History, and Research notes on A.M.E. Church History, both written by Dr. Dennis Dickerson, Historiographer of the AME Church. Dr. Dickerson has other books available. Also available, The Role of the Stewards written by Dr. A. Lee Henderson, History of the African Methodist Episcopal Church written by Bishop Daniel A. Payne, Methodist Polity authored by Bishop Henry McNeal Turner, What A.M.E.’s Believe written by Bishop John Hurst Adams. Jeanette T. Johns, who is a retired librarian authored, The Upward Journey: A Centenarian's Chronicle, a book about the late Bishop Decatur Ward Nichols. There are numerous other books available for at the AME Sunday School Union. Call 800.648-8724 for more information.
Other books that can be purchased from major book stores is Journey to the Well by Bishop Vashti McKenzie (she has two other books available), Herstory as a Woman Pastor Preacher written by the Reverend Barbara J. Barbour and From Boy Preacher to Serving God and Humanity written by the Reverend O’Neal Hayes Brown, Sr. and The Christian Recorder, A.M.E. Church 1854 -1902 written by the late Gilbert Anthony Williams
2. THE LENTEN SEASON BEGINS THIS WEDNESDAY:
This Wednesday, February 9, 2005 is Ash Wednesday and the beginning of the Lenten Season. Lent is a forty-day period before Easter that begins on Ash Wednesday. Sundays are not counted in the forty day count when the forty days are counted, because Sundays commemorate the Resurrection.
The liturgical color for the altar and the liturgical vestments, i.e.., stole, for those who observe the liturgical color cycle is purple.
3. HOLY WEEK:
Begins on Palm Sunday and goes to Easter. Holy Week commemorates the Passion (Suffering) of Jesus.
4. EASTER:
Easter will be observed this year on March 27, 2005.
5. METROPOLITAN AME CHURCH, AUSTIN, TEXAS WELCOMES NEW FIRST FAMILY:
By Frank W. Owens, Trustee
Austin, Texas… Metropolitan AME Church rolled out the red carpet in a gala evening to welcome our dynamic and energizing pastor, Rev. N. Jordan Mkwanazi and his lovely wife, Rev. Henrietta Sullivan Mkwanazi with gratitude, love and joy on January 28, 2005.
This spiritually vibrant and superb Pastoral Team was assigned to Metropolitan AME Church, November 13, 2004 by the Rt. Rev. Gregory G.M. Ingram, Presiding Prelate of the Tenth Episcopal District.
The program was sponsored by the Stewards of the Church. The program proceeded as follows: Opening of the program by the Mistress of Ceremony, Sister Dorothy Madison; Prelude by Sister Gloria Ross; Entrance of the Honorees; Invocation, Brother Eural Smothers; the Occasion, Brother Gerald Henderson; Music was provided by the group, “Total Quality”; Words of Welcome, Sister Gwendolyn Lawson, Steward Board Pro Tem. Others who joined in welcoming of our Pastoral Team were: Travis County Judge, The Honorable Sam Bisco; Austin Capital District, Reverend Dr. W. Raymond Bryant, Senior Pastor of Grant AME Worship Center; Associate Ministers, Trustees, Ministry Heads, members and friends of Metropolitan shared in on this Special Occasion.
A delicious dinner was served that pleasantly satisfied every ones appetite. This was a very heart-felt occasion that was enjoyed by everyone who attended the welcome for Pastor and First Lady Mkwanazi.
Our Pastoral Team has humbly and graciously accepted the leadership responsibilities with a great insight for a new direction for Metropolitan… this is GOOD NEWS! Pastor Mkwanazi’s motto for Metropolitan is” The Fountain of Praise.” The Pastoral Team is working diligently toward increasing the membership, improving church facilities, uplifting the spiritual life of he Church and most importantly, adhering to an agenda that is available to ALL members to study the word of God through weekly Bible Study.
Under the dynamic leadership of Pastor Mkwanazi and Rev. Henrietta, we, the members of Metropolitan look forward to taking Metropolitan AME Church, Austin, Texas to a greater level in our effort to do God’s work and achieve his Glory!
It is with God’s grace, mercy and love that we the members of Metropolitan accept full responsibility, in cooperating to the fullest extent with our new Pastor, Rev. N. Jordan Mkwanazi and Rev. Henrietta Sullivan Mkwanazi.
Pastor Mkwanazi and Rev. Henrietta…WELCOME, WELCOME, WELCOME to Metropolitan African Methodist Episcopal Church…”THE FOUNTAIN OF PRAISE”!
6. THE PHILADELPHIA (MOTHER) DISTRICT OF AFRICAN METHODISM WILL GIVE BIRTH TO WOMEN’S GENERAL ASSEMBLY 2005:
By the Rev. Maxine L. Thomas
In answer to the call to provide continued nurturing in the Word through preaching, teaching and ministering that produces holistic healing, and spiritual empowerment for women to fulfill their God purposed destiny, the Philadelphia (Mother) District of the African Methodist Episcopal Church, where the Rev. Dr. Henrietta Scott Fullard is the Presiding Elder will give birth to its first Annual Women’s Conference on Friday, November 18 thru Saturday, November 19, 2005 at the First District Plaza, 3801 Market Street in Philadelphia, PA.
Titled, Women’s General Assembly 2005, “AND SHE SHALL BRING FORTH,” and using Luke 1:31 as a scriptural foundation, the conference will aid in the process of women identifying that which God has placed …
(Read the complete article in The Christian Recorder in March in the all women’s edition of The Christian Recorder in celebration of Women’s History Month.)
Synopsis of the life of Bishop Richard Allen
Richard Allen was born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania on February 14, 1760. He was converted when he was seventeen years old and licensed to preach when he was 22. He was 27 years old when he and the other blacks walked out of St. George’s Methodist Episcopal Church. He was 40 years old when he was ordained a deacon by Bishop Francis Asbury. He was consecrated a bishop (1816) when he was 56 years old. The first A.M.E. Hymnal was published in 1818. Bishop Morris Brown was elected bishop-assistant to Bishop Allen at the General Conference held in Philadelphia in 1828. Bishop Allen died on March 31, 1831.
Richard Allen on His Conversion
I was a child and lived with him (Benjamin Chew) until I was upwards of twenty years of age, during which time I was awakened and brought to see myself, poor, wretched and undone, and without the mercy of God must be lost. Shortly after, I obtained mercy through the blood of Christ, and was constrained to exhort my old companions to seek the Lord. I went rejoicing for several days and was happy in the Lord, in conversing with many old, experienced Christians. I was brought under doubts, and was tempted to believe I was deceived, and was constrained to seek the Lord afresh. I went with my head bowed down for many days. My sins were a heavy burden. I was tempted to believe there was no mercy for me. I cried to the Lord both day and night. One night I thought hell would be my portion. I cried unto Him who delighteth to hear the prayers of a poor sinner, and all of a sudden my dungeon shook, my chains flew off, and glory to God, I cried. My soul was filled. I cried, enough for me-the Savior died. Now my confidence was strengthened that the Lord, for Christ’s sake, had heard my prayers and pardoned my sins.
Richard Allen on His Response to His Conversion
I was constrained to go from house to house, exhorting my old companions, and telling to all around what a dear Savior I had found. I joined the Methodist Society and met in class at Benjamin Wells’s, in the forest, Delaware state. John Gray was the class leader. I met in his class for several years.
Richard Allen Explains Why He and the Other Blacks Left St. George’s M.E. Church
A number of us usually attended St. George’s Church in Fourth Street; and when the colored people began to get numerous in attending the church, they moved us from the seats we usually sat on, and placed us around the wall, and on Sabbath morning we went to church and the sexton stood at the door, and told us to go in the gallery. He told us to go, and we would see where to sit. We expected to take the seats over the ones we formerly occupied below, not knowing any better. We took those seats. Meeting had begun, and they were nearly done singing, and just as we got to the seats, the elder said, “Let us pray.” We had not been long on our knees before I heard considerable scuffling and low talking. I raised my head up and saw one of the trustees, H—M--, having hold of the Rev. Absalom Jones, pulling him up off of his knees, and saying, “You must get up –you must not kneel here.” Mr. Jones replied, “Wait until the prayer is over.” Mr. H--M—said, “No, you must get up now, or I will call for aid and force you away.” Mr. Jones said, “Wait until prayer is over, and I will get up and trouble you no more.” With that he beckoned to one of the other trustees, Mr. L—S—to come to his assistance. He came, and went to William White to pull him up. By this time prayer was over, and we all sent out of the church in a body, and they were no more plagued with us in the church. This raised a great excitement and inquiry among the citizens, in so much that I believe they were ashamed of their conduct. But my dear Lord was with us, and we were filled with fresh vigor to get a house erected to worship God in.
The passages above were extracted from, The Experience and Gospel labors of The Rt. Rev. Richard Allen, written by Richard Allen, himself, with a Preface by Dr. A. Lee Henderson.
Dr. A. Lee Henderson encouraged all people to read the book written by Richard Allen. He shared that Bishop Allen, born a slave, “…freed himself from the tyranny of segregation to establish the first African Methodist Episcopal Church in God’s Kingdom.” Dr. Henderson wrote in the Introduction, “Richard Allen was the first ordained preacher of African descent in America, and was elected in absentia. Both he and Daniel Coker were elected the first day, but when Allen appeared the second day he took the position that two bishops were not needed at the time of organization. Coker resigned and Allen was set apart.”
The experience and Gospel labors of The Rt. Rev. Richard Allen is published by the AMEC Sunday School Union, Nashville, Tennessee and may be purchased by calling 1-800-648-8724 and make your payment using your credit card. The book will be sent to you immediately. Or you may send your check for $5.60 and the book will be mailed to you.
The AMEC Sunday School Union
500 8th Avenue South
Nashville, TN 37203.
Editor’s Comment: I would hope that every AME minister and every layperson has or will purchase a copy of this modestly priced book.
Editor’s Comment: I have attended Founder’s Day observances and note that sometimes, Bishop Richard Allen’s name is not mentioned. When I was growing up, I used to hear Richard Allen’s name, from time to time, mentioned in sermons. I don’t hear as much today about Richard Allen as I used to hear in church in worship services.
On behalf of the Rt. Reverend Gregory G.M. Ingram, Chair, Commission on Publications and the Reverend Dr. Johnny Barbour, Jr., Publisher, we encourage all clergy and laity go back to "our roots" and look anew to the life of Richard Allen and the other early leaders of the African Methodist Episcopal Church. Their struggles are ours; though many things change, there are many struggles that remain the same.
The Sunday School Union has a number of excellent books, e.g., The Romance of African Methodism written by the late Dr. George Singleton, A Liberated Past: Explorations in AME Church History, and Research notes on A.M.E. Church History, both written by Dr. Dennis Dickerson, Historiographer of the AME Church. Dr. Dickerson has other books available. Also available, The Role of the Stewards written by Dr. A. Lee Henderson, History of the African Methodist Episcopal Church written by Bishop Daniel A. Payne, Methodist Polity authored by Bishop Henry McNeal Turner, What A.M.E.’s Believe written by Bishop John Hurst Adams. Jeanette T. Johns, who is a retired librarian authored, The Upward Journey: A Centenarian's Chronicle, a book about the late Bishop Decatur Ward Nichols. There are numerous other books available for at the AME Sunday School Union. Call 800.648-8724 for more information.
Other books that can be purchased from major book stores is Journey to the Well by Bishop Vashti McKenzie (she has two other books available), Herstory as a Woman Pastor Preacher written by the Reverend Barbara J. Barbour and From Boy Preacher to Serving God and Humanity written by the Reverend O’Neal Hayes Brown, Sr. and The Christian Recorder, A.M.E. Church 1854 -1902 written by the late Gilbert Anthony Williams
2. THE LENTEN SEASON BEGINS THIS WEDNESDAY:
This Wednesday, February 9, 2005 is Ash Wednesday and the beginning of the Lenten Season. Lent is a forty-day period before Easter that begins on Ash Wednesday. Sundays are not counted in the forty day count when the forty days are counted, because Sundays commemorate the Resurrection.
The liturgical color for the altar and the liturgical vestments, i.e.., stole, for those who observe the liturgical color cycle is purple.
3. HOLY WEEK:
Begins on Palm Sunday and goes to Easter. Holy Week commemorates the Passion (Suffering) of Jesus.
4. EASTER:
Easter will be observed this year on March 27, 2005.
5. METROPOLITAN AME CHURCH, AUSTIN, TEXAS WELCOMES NEW FIRST FAMILY:
By Frank W. Owens, Trustee
Austin, Texas… Metropolitan AME Church rolled out the red carpet in a gala evening to welcome our dynamic and energizing pastor, Rev. N. Jordan Mkwanazi and his lovely wife, Rev. Henrietta Sullivan Mkwanazi with gratitude, love and joy on January 28, 2005.
This spiritually vibrant and superb Pastoral Team was assigned to Metropolitan AME Church, November 13, 2004 by the Rt. Rev. Gregory G.M. Ingram, Presiding Prelate of the Tenth Episcopal District.
The program was sponsored by the Stewards of the Church. The program proceeded as follows: Opening of the program by the Mistress of Ceremony, Sister Dorothy Madison; Prelude by Sister Gloria Ross; Entrance of the Honorees; Invocation, Brother Eural Smothers; the Occasion, Brother Gerald Henderson; Music was provided by the group, “Total Quality”; Words of Welcome, Sister Gwendolyn Lawson, Steward Board Pro Tem. Others who joined in welcoming of our Pastoral Team were: Travis County Judge, The Honorable Sam Bisco; Austin Capital District, Reverend Dr. W. Raymond Bryant, Senior Pastor of Grant AME Worship Center; Associate Ministers, Trustees, Ministry Heads, members and friends of Metropolitan shared in on this Special Occasion.
A delicious dinner was served that pleasantly satisfied every ones appetite. This was a very heart-felt occasion that was enjoyed by everyone who attended the welcome for Pastor and First Lady Mkwanazi.
Our Pastoral Team has humbly and graciously accepted the leadership responsibilities with a great insight for a new direction for Metropolitan… this is GOOD NEWS! Pastor Mkwanazi’s motto for Metropolitan is” The Fountain of Praise.” The Pastoral Team is working diligently toward increasing the membership, improving church facilities, uplifting the spiritual life of he Church and most importantly, adhering to an agenda that is available to ALL members to study the word of God through weekly Bible Study.
Under the dynamic leadership of Pastor Mkwanazi and Rev. Henrietta, we, the members of Metropolitan look forward to taking Metropolitan AME Church, Austin, Texas to a greater level in our effort to do God’s work and achieve his Glory!
It is with God’s grace, mercy and love that we the members of Metropolitan accept full responsibility, in cooperating to the fullest extent with our new Pastor, Rev. N. Jordan Mkwanazi and Rev. Henrietta Sullivan Mkwanazi.
Pastor Mkwanazi and Rev. Henrietta…WELCOME, WELCOME, WELCOME to Metropolitan African Methodist Episcopal Church…”THE FOUNTAIN OF PRAISE”!
6. THE PHILADELPHIA (MOTHER) DISTRICT OF AFRICAN METHODISM WILL GIVE BIRTH TO WOMEN’S GENERAL ASSEMBLY 2005:
By the Rev. Maxine L. Thomas
In answer to the call to provide continued nurturing in the Word through preaching, teaching and ministering that produces holistic healing, and spiritual empowerment for women to fulfill their God purposed destiny, the Philadelphia (Mother) District of the African Methodist Episcopal Church, where the Rev. Dr. Henrietta Scott Fullard is the Presiding Elder will give birth to its first Annual Women’s Conference on Friday, November 18 thru Saturday, November 19, 2005 at the First District Plaza, 3801 Market Street in Philadelphia, PA.
Titled, Women’s General Assembly 2005, “AND SHE SHALL BRING FORTH,” and using Luke 1:31 as a scriptural foundation, the conference will aid in the process of women identifying that which God has placed …
(Read the complete article in The Christian Recorder in March in the all women’s edition of The Christian Recorder in celebration of Women’s History Month.)
7. SUBSCRIBE TO THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER
Subscribe to The Christian Recorder and have the hard-copy paper edition mailed directly to your home! You may call 1-800-648-8724 and make your payment using your credit card. Or send $26.00 check or money order for a one year subscription to:
The Christian Recorder
500 8th Avenue South,
Nashville, TN 37203.
