6/03/2005

THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER ONLINE (6/3/05)

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


1. AME LUNCHEON AT THE HAMPTON UNIVERSITY MINISTERS’ CONFERENCE:

The 2005 AME Luncheon at the Hampton University Ministers’ Conference will be held at the Radisson Hotel, 756 Settlers Landing Rd. • Hampton, VA, 23669, Telephone (757) 757-727-1271 on Thursday, June 9 at 1:30 p.m. The Radisson is adjacent to the Campus and as you leave the campus, proceed left on Settlers’ Landing and it is the tall building on the left after you cross the bridge.

We will be served the Executive Buffet which includes full salad bar of Garden Salad, marinated Vegetables and Pasta Salad and Potato Salad, Warms Rolls and Butter. The Entrees will be Southern Fried Chicken and Sliced Top Round of Beef with two side dishes of Green Beans Almondine and Oven Roasted Potatoes. The dessert will be what the hotel calls a Dessert Theatre (multiple desserts). Iced tea and coffee service will be provided at no additional cost.

The cost of the luncheon will be $20 which includes the luncheon plus gratuity and taxes (Actually the total came to $21.17 but Bishop Bryant agreed that we could round it off to $20). There will be a full compliment of waiters to provide service for our luncheon.

Let’s make the luncheon a memorable AME occasion as it has been in years past.

2. PAYNE CELEBRATES COMMENCEMENT SERVICE:

Payne Theological Seminary culminated its 161st Academic year with a commencement service on Friday, May 27, 2005, at 7:00 pm. Persons attending this event witnessed the conferment of Master of Divinity Degrees upon five students. The Reverend Susan Brooks Thistlethwaite, Ph.D., President of Chicago Theological Seminary was the distinguished speaker and shared a message with the class that brought down the house. Her topic ` was “Expecting the Unexpected” she challenged those in attendance to embrace the multiplicity of scripture and to look for God in the uncommon and unfamiliar. Payne’s graduating class of 2005 included:

Bobbi Lynn Harewood of Clayton, Ohio.
Thesis Title: “Talkin’ Loud and Ain’t Sayin’ Nothin’”: A Critical Perspective on Youth Ministry in the African-American Church.

Carolyn B. Reece Hickman of Middletown, Ohio.
Thesis Title: The Breakdown of Marital Communication: A Christian Perspective.

Timothy Eugene Liggins of Columbus, Ohio.
Thesis Title: Dr. Jawanza Kunjufu, Young African-American Males, and the African-American Church.

Leatha Camille Lyles Stills of Huber Heights, Ohio.
Thesis Title: Ancient Israel, African-Americans, and the Ideology of Chosenness: Unveiling the Hidden Agenda.

Mattie Lou Vaughn Augustin of Wilberforce, Ohio.
Thesis Title: The Ethics of William Wilberforce: A Critical Examination of His Campaign Against the Trans-Atlantic Slave Trade.

In addition to the recipients of Master of Divinity degrees, Payne is awarded four individuals certificates of completion of Greater Dayton Lay School Center, an Alternative Theological Education Program. These recipients were Pamela D. Fair, Yvonne W. Dudley, Reverend Gloria Barbour, and Candy R. Lewis.

Submitted by Erma Y. Croom
Student, Payne Theological Seminary

3. INTERNATIONAL HIGHLIGHTS FROM PAYNE THEOLOGICAL SEMINARY:

Among persons, receiving awards at Payne Theological Seminary’s Commencement service were two students from the 14th Episcopal District, Reverend Richard Clark, and Reverend Jeffery Baryogar Queh. Reverend Clarke, a first year student, is the fourth son of the late Edward W. Clarke and Zoe Clarke of the City of Arthington, Montserrado County, Liberia, West Africa. In 1999, he was among the first graduates of the African Methodist Episcopal University and the first of his class with a Bachelor’s Degree in Theology. He has served in the AME Church as a pastor for eleven years, presiding elder for four years and chairperson of the board of examiners of the Liberia Annual Conference for four years. Reverend Clarke received two awards for the Academic year of 2004-2005: The Reverend & Mrs. Wesley E. Wharton Scholarship and Who’s Who Among Students in American Universities and Colleges.

Reverend Queh is a native of Grand Bassa County, Liberia, West Africa, the son of the late Mr. Jimmy Wragbo Queh and the late Mrs. Mentee Queh. He is a devoted husband and father of two children, ages 8 and 19. Reverend Queh also received a Bachelor of Theology Degree from the African Methodist Episcopal University in Liberia, 1999. He served the AME Church as a Pastor for eighteen years, Secretary of the Liberia Annual Conference Board of Trustees for four years, Member of the AME University Board of Trustees for seven years and Secretary of the Board of Examiners, Liberia Annual Conference for four years. Reverend Queh was awarded the Bishop Hubert N. Robinson Memorial Book Scholarship for the 2004-2005 Academic year.

Both Reverend Clark and Reverend Queh were blessed to serve under the leadership of Bishop Richard Franklin Norris, the 116th elected Bishop of the African American Episcopal Church, who upon his election, was sent to serve the 14th Episcopal District in West Africa, which includes Nigeria, Togo, Benin, Liberia, Ghana, Sierra Leone and Cote d’Ivoire. It was Bishop Norris, whose support made it possible for Reverend Clark and Reverend Queh to matriculate at Payne Theological Seminary.

More on the Payne International Scene

Reverend Newton Dixon, a senior at Payne from the Sixteenth Episcopal District, received the National Scholarly Achievement Award. In addition, he has been given the position of Coordinator of Payne International, a responsibility that involves assisting Payne in the expansion of its course opportunities to the Caribbean during the summer of 2005.

In addition, the 2005 graduating class also made their contributions to International expansion by presenting a Foreign Student Endowment fund for the purpose of assisting foreign students.

Persons wishing to make contributions may do so by sending their donations in care of Payne Theological Seminary, P. O. Box 474, Wilberforce, OH 45384. For more information please call (937) 376-2947.

Submitted by Erma Y. Croom
Student, Payne Theological Seminary

4. ADDENDUM: FUNERAL SERVICE FOR MRS. BERNICE MUNGEN:

Mrs. Bernice Mungen, a dedicated lay woman and leader, and a Life Member of the Women's Missionary Society of the African Methodist Episcopal Church was a member of the Washington Conference, Second Episcopal District; Bishop Adam Jefferson Richardson, Jr., Presiding Bishop and Mrs. Connie S. Richardson, Episcopal Supervisor. Mrs. Mungen was a member of Pilgrim A.M.E. Church, Washington, DC; the Reverend Dr. Lois Poag-Ray, Pastor. Mrs. Bernice Mungen is the sister of Mrs. Gloria Cartwright, a ministers' widow, from the 1st Episcopal District.

5. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

Regretfully we share news of the passing of The Reverend Benjamin Gay, Retired Presiding Elder, Atlanta North Georgia Conference, Sixth Episcopal District; Bishop William P. DeVeaux, Presiding Bishop and Dr. Pam DeVeaux, Episcopal Supervisor.Service Arrangements: FuneralTuesday, June 7, 200511:00 AMAllen Temple AME Church1625 Simpson Road, NWAtlanta, GA 30314404-794-3302Rev. Claude R. James, PastorCondolences may be sent to: The family of Rev. Benjamin Gay4515 Greensprings RoadCollege Park, GA 30037 Or to: The family of Rev. Benjamin Gayc/o Allen Temple AME Church1625 Simpson Road, NWAtlanta, GA 30314 Please remember the family in your prayers.

6. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

Please pray for Brother Luttrell and Dr. Virginia Long. Brother Luttrell lost his mother, Sister Jeanette Wesley Long of St. Louis, Missouri. As many may know, Sister Jeanette Wesley Long was the wife of the Sainted Reverend Luttrell Long, one of the esteemed Gospel Preachers of Jesus Christ, in African Methodism's history.

The funeral is Saturday, June 4th at 10:00 a.m. It will be held at the St. Paul A. M. E. Church, Pastor Alvin L. Smith, 1260 Hamilton Avenue, St. Louis, Missouri 63112. Phone 314-385-8900 and Fax 314-385 5367.

Condolences may be sent to Brother Luttrell Long, 1 Mustang Road, Rancho Palos Verdes, California 90275.

7. ALL BEREAVEMENT AND FUNERAL ANNOUNCEMENTS RECEIVED FROM THE CLERGY FAMILY INFORMATION CENTER:

Bishop Carolyn Tyler Guidry, Chair
Commission on Social Action
Clergy Family Information Center
CONN-M-SWAWO+PK'S

Mrs. Ora L. Easley - Administrator
Email: Amespouses1@aol.com
(Nashville, TN Contact)
Phone: (615) 837-9736
Voice Mail: (615) 833-6936
Fax: (615) 833-3781
(Memphis, TN Contact) (901) 578-4554 (Phone & Fax)

6/02/2005

THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER ONLINE (6/2/05)

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


1. AME LUNCHEON AT THE HAMPTON UNIVERSITY MINISTERS’ CONFERENCE:

The 2005 AME Luncheon at the Hampton University Ministers’ Conference will be held at the Radisson Hotel, 756 Settlers Landing Rd. • Hampton, VA, 23669, Telephone (757) 757-727-1271 on Thursday, June 9 at 1:30 p.m. The Radisson is adjacent to the Campus and as you leave the campus, proceed left on Settlers’ Landing and it is the tall building on the left after you cross the bridge.

We will be served the Executive Buffet which includes full salad bar of Garden Salad, marinated Vegetables and Pasta Salad and Potato Salad, Warms Rolls and Butter. The Entrees will be Southern Fried Chicken and Sliced Top Round of Beef with two side dishes of Green Beans Almondine and Oven Roasted Potatoes. The dessert will be what the hotel calls a Dessert Theatre (multiple desserts). Iced tea and coffee service will be provided at no additional cost.

The cost of the luncheon will be $20 which includes the luncheon plus gratuity and taxes (Actually the total came to $21.17 but Bishop Bryant agreed that we could round it off to $20). There will be a full compliment of waiters to provide service for our luncheon.

Let’s make the luncheon a memorable AME occasion as it has been in years past. .

2. A "NEW" CONGREGATION FOR AN OLD CHURCH:

A new congregation publicly launched in Bamberg, South Carolina. The congregation of Mount Zion African Methodist Church, Garnett, South Carolina recently purchased the Church Sanctuary, Educational Building and lot formerly known as Bamberg Presbyterian Church located at 67 Elm Street, Bamberg, South Carolina under the leadership of the Rev. and Mrs. Joseph U. Grant III.

This extended worship center is now known as: Grant Chapel African Methodist Church.

We extent you an invitation to a unique worship service where you are welcomed to become a part of a body of believers that reflects cultural and artistic diversity. A church that develops the creative gifts and promotes the fulfillment of God inspired vision for the life of each parishioner. A church where we believe and trust through the presence of the Holy Spirit your lives will be transformed.

Mt. Zion A.M.E Church, Garnett and Grant Chapel A.M.E. are a part of the Seventh Episcopal District under the leadership of The Rt. Rev. Preston Warren Williams II and Mother Wilma Delores Webb-Williams.

3. NEWS FROM PAYNE THEOLOGICAL SEMINARY– THE “CHAPLAIN AND MRS. DAVID R. BROWN MINISTRY OPPORTUNITIES FUND SCHOLARSHIP”

On Friday May 27th, the Reverend Joseph Pridgen was awarded the Ministry Opportunities Fund Scholarship during the 2005 Payne Theological Seminary Graduation Service. Reverend Pridgen is the son of the Reverend Conrad Pridgen, who is a pastor in the Washington Conference, Second Episcopal District.

Chaplain and Mrs. David R. Brown established the Ministry Opportunities Fund Scholarship two years ago at Payne Theological Seminary. This scholarship is awarded to the student that possesses the highest grade point average after their first year of studies.

The two previous award recipients were also present at the graduation service: the Reverends Lethea Still and Irma Croom from the Third and Eleventh Episcopal Districts respectively. Reverend Still has maintained academic excellence throughout her seminary training, graduating at the top of her class, while Reverend Croom has maintained a 4.0 grade point average and expects to graduate in May of 2006.

Reverend Joseph Pridgen received an award in the amount of $3000.00 through the scholarship fund.

4. THE CHRISTIAN DEBUTANTE-MASTER COMMISSION BOARD MEETING:

By Connectional Officer Loretta Hill (Reprinted A.M.E. Herald)

The Christian Debutante-Master commission held its annual Executive Board Meeting and Retreat in Memphis, Tennessee May 20-22, 2005 at the Radisson Inn Airport Hotel. Bethel AME Church served as the host church. The Rev. lmella Starks-Umoja is the pastor. Sister Gloria Ward, host Episcopal District DMC Commissioner and her committee hosted the event elegantly and those in attendance appreciated the graciousness of the host committee.

Bishop Vashti McKenzie Presiding Bishop of the 13th Episcopal District and Episcopal Supervisor Stan McKenzie were in attendance along with, Mrs. Yvonne Parks, WMS Supervisor from the 8th Episcopal District. The Rev. Dr. Daryl B. Ingram, Executive Director/Secretary Christian Education Department, presiding elders, pastors, Episcopal District MC, Conference and local DMC Commissioners; guests and friends also were in attendance.

All attendees received a beautiful red cloth tote bag with the DMC logo printed on the bag. There were many nice gifts in the tote bags, educational literature and souvenir journal. The Local Health Department nurses provided health education literature and provided blood pressure screening. Nurses also led exercises for the group during workshop sessions. A welcome reception and orientation were held Friday evening. The Executive Board Meeting followed the reception.

Attendees worked late into the night, brainstormed and discussed many issues regarding the DMC. Saturday began with prayer and praise walk in the park. A Prayer and Praise Breakfast followed. The breakfast and workshop sessions were held at Bethel A.M.E. Church. Participants from across the connection recited prayers-tenacity-the ant; innocence-sheep; courage-spider; self knowledge-monkey; integrity-lion/tiger; unity-boldness protection.

Bishop McKenzie and supervisor Stan McKenzie and Rev. Dr. Daryl Ingram greeted the attendees. Workshops topics included Focusing on the Vision, DMC History and Structure: God must be first, spiritual preparation, know thyself, mission and vision statement, setting goals, nurturing and training young people.

The meeting also emphasized, accepting change, and organizing a new DMC Leadership, along with tips for team leaders.

The group conducted a riding tour and visited the Memphis Child Advocacy Center and donated over 100 teddy bears to the agency. Lunch was held at the Isaac Hays Restaurant.

On Saturday evening, the attendees wore red (our DMC Color) for the Ruby and Pearl Dinner Theater. A wonderful evening of singing, acting, praise dancing, a touch of jazz, awards presentations, delicious food and oldies but goodies was shared by all. Gloria Ward served as toast mistress. Lovie Jacocks, Conference DMC Commissioner greeted the participants warmly and distributed many souvenirs and gifts to all in attendance. Loretta Hill thanked everyone for their time and hard work.

The Executive Board Meetings were long but productive. Many suggestions and plans were discussed. We look forward to the continued growth of the DMC.
The retreat ended with a Light to Freedom Service on Sunday morning. This service concluded with a commitment to go and help others seek God's Amazing, abundant love and power. The group departed to “serve a waiting community.”

The attendees completed an evaluation form and everyone agreed the meeting was an inspirational, energizing and educational Board Meeting and Retreat.

We will return to our respective districts and put what we learned here into action.
We look forward to more people participating in the DMC as we claim and retain our young people in this great Church of Allen.

5. THE FIVE FINGERS’ PRAYER:

(Author unknown)

1. Your thumb is nearest you. So begin your prayers by praying for those closest to you. They are the easiest to remember. To pray for our loved ones is, as C. S. Lewis once said, a "sweet duty."

2. The next finger is the pointing finger. Pray for those who teach, instruct and heal. This includes teachers, doctors, and ministers. They need support and wisdom in pointing others in the right direction. Keep them in your prayers.

3. The next finger is the tallest finger. It reminds us of our leaders. Pray for the president, leaders in business and industry, and administrators. These people shape our nation and guide public opinion. They need God's guidance.

4. The fourth finger is our ring finger. Surprising to many is the fact that this is our weakest finger; as any piano teacher will testify. It should remind us to pray for those who are weak, in trouble or in pain. They need your prayers day and night. You cannot pray too much for them.

5. And lastly comes our little finger; the smallest finger of all which is where we should place ourselves in relation to God and others.

6. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

Mrs. Alfreda Tate, passed away May 30, 2005. She is the widow of late Rev. James M. Tate, Jr., who pastored Trinity AME Church, Springfield, OH. She is the sister-in-law of Rev. P. Robert Tate, Presiding Elder, Youngstown District and Geraldine M. Tate, 3rd District M-SWAWO president.

The Arrangements: Calling Hours:

At the Funeral Home - Thursday, June 2, 2005; 1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.

At the Church - Thursday, June 2, 2005; 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. and Friday, June 3, 2005 - 10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.

Funeral Service: Friday, June 3, 2005 11:00 a.m.
Trinity African Methodist Episcopal Church
554 Selma RoadSpringfield, OH 45506
Phone: 937-325-1372
Rev. Dwight Smith, Pastor
Porter-Qualls Funeral Home, Inc.
823 S. Yellow Springs Street
Springfield, OH 45506

Phone: 937-325-1447 or 1-800-972-9799 - FAX: 937-325-1744
Condolences can be sent to the Church or Funeral Home.
Email condolences can be sent to: gmtatept@msn.com

Please remember the family in your prayers.

7. FUNERAL NOTICE

We regret to inform you of the passing of Sis. Bernice Mungen, sister of Gloria Cartwright. The following information has been provided regarding funeral arrangements.

Funeral - Friday, June 3, 2005
Service - 9:00 a.m.
Pilgrim A.M.E. Church
612 17th Street, NE
Washington, DC 20002
Church: 202-396-8582/9514
Fax: 202-396-1987
Condolences may be sent to : Family of Bernice Mungenc/o Pilgrim A.M.E. Church at the above address and fax number

Please remember the family of the deceased in your prayers.

8. FUNERAL NOTICE:

We regret to inform you of the passing of Reverend Raymond Thompson, Sr., pastor of St. James AME Church, Manalapan, New Jersey (New Brunswick District).

The following information has been provided regarding funeral arrangements.

Viewing - Friday, June 3, 2005
7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.
Saturday, June 4, 2005
8:00 a.m. - 9:00 a.m.
Mt. Pisgah A.M.E. Church
354 Forrest Street
Jersey City, NJ 07304

The Rev. Reginald McRae, Pastor
201-435-3680
Funeral Service- Saturday, June 4, 2005, 9:00 a.m.
Mt. Pisgah AME Church
Same address as above
Condolences may be sent to:

Mrs. Esther Thompson
147 Bayview Avenue
Jersey City, NJ 07305

Please remember the Thompson family in your prayers during this time of their bereavement.

9. FUNERAL NOTICE:

We regret to inform you of the passing of Deaconess Ethel Edward Hunter. She was the grandmother of Nolan Jones and mother of the late Elnora Jones.

The following information has been provided regarding funeral arrangements.

Viewing - Monday, June 6, 2005; 10:00 a.m. - 11 :00 a.m.
Mother Bethel A.M.E. Church
419 Richard Allen Avenue
Philadelphia, PA 19147

The Rev. Jeffrey N. Leath, Pastor
215-925-0616
Funeral - Monday, June 6, 2005
Service - 11:00 a.m.

Mother Bethel AME Church
Same address as above
Condolences may be sent to:
The family of Deaconess Ethel Edward Hunter
c/o Mother Bethel A.M.E. Church
Same address as above I
nterment - Chelten Hills Cemetery

Please remember the Hunter family in your prayers during this time of their bereavement.

10. ALL DEATH AND FUNERAL ANNOUNCEMENTS RECEIVED FROM THE CLERGY FAMILY INFORMATION CENTER:

Bishop Carolyn Tyler Guidry - Chair, Commission on Social ActionCONN-M-SWAWO+PK'S

Mrs. Ora L. Easley - Administrator

Email: Amespouses1@aol.com
(Nashville, TN Contact) Phone: (615) 837-9736
Voice Mail: (615) 833-6936Fax: (615) 833-3781
(Memphis, TN Contact) (901) 578-4554 (Phone & Fax).

5/31/2005

THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER ONLINE (5/31/05)

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



1. AME LUNCHEON AT THE HAMPTON UNIVERSITY MINISTERS’ CONFERENCE:

The 2005 AME Luncheon at the Hampton University Ministers’ Conference will be held at the Radisson Hotel, 756 Settlers Landing Rd. • Hampton, VA, 23669, Telephone (757) 757-727-1271 on Thursday, June 9 at 1:30 p.m. The Radisson is adjacent to the Campus and as you leave the campus, proceed left on Settlers’ Landing and it is the tall building on the left after you cross the bridge. Let’s make the luncheon a memorable AME occasion as it has been in years past.

Editor’s note: I will be attending a funeral in Chicago and will be out of the office until Thursday.

2., DONATIONS FROM MY FAMILY AND FRIENDS FOR ASSISTANCE FOR OVERSEAS DISTRICTS 14-20:

My family donations are arriving. We received from our son, Dr. Calvin Sydnor IV Kibwe, our daughter-in-law, Joanna Wells Kibwe, our God son, Dr. Ernest Mawusi. Two checks totaling $1000.00 received from their practices: Ambulatory Foot and Ankle Center, P.C. 1618 Hardy Cash Drive, Hampton, Virginia and Dominion DME, Inc. same address as Ambulatory Foot and Ankle Center. Total received so far Overseas Districts:

$260.00- Dr. Calvin and Reverend Charlotte Sydnor
$1248.00 -Sister Jeanette Johns and Friends in memory of the Reverend Clarence B Johns
$500.00 – Ambulatory Foot and Ankle Center, Hampton, Virginia
$500.00 – Dominion DME, Inc., Hampton, Virginia

Total Received to date: $2508.00

3. DOES ANYONE KNOW ABOUT THIS – THE FISH FRY AT OAK GROVE AME?

I just spoke to my daughter-in-law who lives in Oak Park, MI. She told me about an A.M.E. Church that has what is advertised as "The Biggest Fish Fry in Detroit". They bring in a refrigerated truck full of fish and have this Fish Fry for two days. She says it is absolutely the best fish! The rest of the menu is good, too, and the dessert is melt-in-your-mouth Pound Cake, made by a lady whose name no one will tell my daughter-in-law. Seems it's a big secret. I guess everyone would want her name and recipe. People come from downtown, uptown, everywhere. And it's the BEST fundraiser. They make $10-20,000 each year.

It's Oak Grove A.M.E. Church, located at Cherry Lawn and Pembrook. It's the church that Bishop Ingram pastored before his election.

3. MEDICAL DIRECTOR FOR THE CONNECTIONAL HEALTH COMMISSION:

The Reverend Dr. Miriam Burnette is the medical director for the Connectional Health Commission.

4. EVALUATION USED AS A TOOL FOR CHURCH GROWTH:

Submitted By: Reverend Charles R. Watkins, Jr., B. S. M. Div.
Pastor, Friendship A.M.E. Church, Clinton, SC

Now that I have had more time to think about it, I am convinced that because the process by which evaluation is accomplished may be a bit difficult, many churches shy away from it. However, plans for the church and church growth are made and implemented as a result of evaluation. Clearly, it is effective evaluation that provides the barometer for what works and what doesn’t work. Evaluation when incorporated in a positive manner becomes integral to the overall planning process. Evaluation is such an important tool, that it is advantageous for the church to put a plan to work making it an obvious and intentional process.

Unfortunately, as soon as you mention the word survey people will be turned off. Many folk don’t participate in surveys anywhere. I don’t believe the average church member would consider evaluation to be a part of the church process. Never in a million years would you convince some of the church officers that evaluation is vital to the life of the church. Churches for the most part, as sad as it is to admit, have allowed themselves to become much more social than spiritual. It seems that there is a principal ingredient lacking, something that stunts the growth of a church. Evaluation would uncover the root of the problem.

I’m afraid that many folk don’t really understand, specifically in terms of Christianity, why they are what they are. Until I understood, a little more completely, my own spirituality I was a Methodist because my mother was Methodist. I am not so sure that many others aren’t Methodist or Baptist or even Christians at all for that matter, other than for the fact that their parents were. I am afraid that Christianity has merely become, in many instances, a perpetuation of ones family background or culture. As a result, many folk never reach a point of spiritual awareness beyond what Momma or Grandma believes. Thus, at least in my humble opinion, there is a great need for intense evaluation in the church prior to the planning of ministries in the church.

I must point out however, that to be effective, evaluation should be directed more towards growth than problem resolution or conflict management. In this approach one can clearly see that the underlying goal of evaluation will be centered on a method to improve rather than criteria to prove. In other words, there seems to be room for negativity when the evaluations of ministries in the church are directed in a manner solely to ascertain whether or not they are effective. It is never a good idea to engage in an evaluation process that involves accusation and finger pointing. This approach tends to uncover unexpected weaknesses in those who are pointing. This kind of evaluation results in "lines being drawn in the sand" and very little can be accomplished to enhance the overall ministry of the church. Work in the church should involve the entire membership, although admittedly, that situation seems to exist “in a land called 'Perfect'”. However, we must be careful to include the entire membership in the evaluation process. It seems that, unfortunately, most congregations left to their own devices, would select a few “prominent” church folk to spearhead the evaluation and never really dig deep enough to find out what the church, as a whole has to say. Try as we may to be inclusive, many of our church systems are flawed. There is a top down mentality that does more to stifle growth than anything else. As I learn more about the system I understand that the help needed must come from within the system. There are others, within the “body of faith”, that have the same feeling and I can see positive changes coming about everyday.

To be effective, evaluation is and must be an ongoing process. We are encouraged to continue to evaluate to ensure that we are equipped to provide the most effective ministry, reaching the lost and leading all of God’s children to Salvation.

I am thrilled to serve God in the 7th Episcopal District under the astute leadership of The Right Reverend Preston Warren Williams II. The blessing certainly continues as the Greenville District, of which I am a part, is superintended through godly direction provided by our Presiding Elder the Rev. Dr. Jonathan J. Baker.

Submitted by the Rev Charles R. Watkins, Jr.


5. EMPOWERMENT! CAN CHRISTIAN BANKING GROUP DRAW ECONOMIC REALITY FROM POLITICAL RHETORIC?

By Stephanie and Eric Stradford
FAS2 Coordinating Consultants

June 1, 2005, “Gorgeous Prince George’s,” MD -- “Empowerment” is by no means a new word. Contemporary use of it as a political buzzword dates back to the American civil rights movement, which sought empowerment for historically disadvantaged Americans.

This week (June 3-4), The Collective Banking Group, Inc. hosts its 10th Community Economic Empowerment Conference and perhaps a glimpse at reconciliation between faith-based empowerment and its impact on a post-war economy. The Collective Banking Group is uniquely empowered to leverage inherent values of a regionally replicable Christian model that connects people of means to people with needs.

At first glance, modern use of the word, “empowerment” appears to have evolved from a mid-17th century legalistic meaning, “to invest with authority,” or “authorize.” However, closer examination reveals the more infinitive and generally acceptable definition, “to enable or permit.” By either definition, the existence of “haves” and “have-nots” in “One Nation under God” suggests that some people believe they have empowerment while others are still waiting for it.

Poet James Weldon Johnson bridges the contemporary buzzword to a greater value. A passage from his poem, “The Creation” characterizes, in a nutshell, what many regard as empowerment through a faith-based initiative.

Up from the bed of the river
God scooped the clay;
And by the bank of the river
He kneeled Him down;

And there the great God Almighty
Who lit the sun and fixed it in the sky,
Who flung the stars to the most far corner of the night,
Who rounded the earth in the middle of His hand;

This Great God,
Like a mammy bending over her baby,
Kneeled down in the dust
Toiling over a lump of clay
Till He shaped it in His own image;

Then into it He blew the breath of life,
And man became a living soul.

Johnson’s poetic perspective is perhaps appreciated most by beneficiaries of faith-based empowerment. During his lifetime in The Temporal Economy of Free Africans (1871-1938), a legendary stolen people rose on a promise of freedom from slavery to a higher level of economic expectation. The American Civil Rights movement responded to acts of terror on Free Africans in North America. The overwhelming Christ-centered response molded diverse beliefs into the politically correct social consciousness that today stands between war and peace.

The “empowered” learned that politics and money commonly stem from trust. The Wall Street perspective that turns from “The PriZe” falls short on faith almost every time. “The financial infrastructure in the African American community is likened to an upside down water barrel,” said one investment banking professional. “An upside down water barrel will not hold drinking water because it is upside down,” he said. “African American community leaders tend to stir up emotion among community members, and the community members tend to complain about their lack of access to capital.”

Somehow the reality of God’s promised empowerment fails to pierce hardened barrels of disbelief. But faith-based foes and friends alike are seeking value in today’s politically correct buzzwords. ”Access to capital, global markets, and leveling the playing field,” call for affirmative action by people in need as well as those of means.

Earlier this month, United States Treasury Secretary John W. Snow announced that 41 organizations have been selected to receive $2 billion in tax credit allocations in the third round of the New Markets Tax Credit (NMTC) Program. Believe it or not, NMTC is chipping away at historic barrels of distrust and disbelief. The program attracts private-sector capital investment into the nation’s urban and rural low-income areas to help finance community development projects, stimulate economic growth and create jobs.

In Poet James Weldon Johnson’s temporal economy, such an allocation might have been perceived as reparation for the enslavement and genocide of Free Africans. In 2005, it is more likely to serve migrant needs in emerging rural census tracks that have yet to factor into the grand scheme. For people of faith, political perception more often than economic reality perpetuates the myth of a minority and majority. As the late Switzer scholar, Spencer Bartley often noted, “There has never been a shortage of resources…only resourcefulness!”
The NMTC program, established by Congress in December of 2000, permits individual and corporate taxpayers to receive a credit against federal income taxes for making qualified equity investments in investment vehicles known as Community Development Entities (CDEs). The credit provided to the investor totals 39 percent of the cost of the investment and is claimed over a seven-year period. Substantially all of the taxpayer’s investment must in turn be used by the CDE to make qualified investments in low-income communities. According to Snow, the 41 organizations were selected "through a competitive application and rigorous review process."

The NMTC program, administered by Treasury’s Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFI) Fund, “is doing what it is suppose to do – attracting sources of capital to our nation’s low income communities,” said CDFI Fund Director Art Garcia. “By partnering with the private sector and community organizations, previous recipients have already leveraged their credits into more than $2 billion in equity from investors.”

The CDFI Fund anticipates announcing the opening of the application period for the next round of the NMTC Program during the summer of 2005. A complete list of the 41 organizations selected and additional information on the NMTC Program can be found on the Internet.

6. THIRTEENTH EPISCOPAL DISTRICT CHRISTIAN EDUCATION YOUTH AND LEADERSHIP CONGRESS 2005 - “HOW TO REACH THE MASSES…”

GALT HOUSE
LOUISVILLE, KENTUCKY
JULY 19 – 22, 2005

SPECIAL HIGHLIGHTS

- ORIENTATION FOR CHAPERONES AND YOUTH
Tuesday, July 19, 2005 5 – 6 PM

- OPENING WORSHIP AND COMMUNION SERVICE
Tuesday, July 19, 2005 at 7:30 PM
Bishop Sarah F. Davis, 18th Episcopal District, preaching

REVIVAL! WEDNESDAY – FRIDAY NIGHTS

Rev. Michael Bell, Bethel A.M.E. Church Dallas, Texas

NIGHTLY TEACHING
Dr. James Wade, General Officer: “How to Reach Un-churched Men”
And Thirteenth District preachers and presenters
- MORNING GLORY PRAYER MINISTRY

- LIVING WELL AND WALKING!

- WMS QUEEN’S CONTEST AND RECEPTION

- AFTERNOON AT THE APOLLO
- DMC PRAYER BREAKFAST AND GRADUATION
- HOLY GHOST HOLLA!
“It’s a Holy Ghost party and a Holy Ghost party don’t stop”!
WEDNESDAY – FRIDAY
BEGINNING FOR YOUTH AT 10 PM
Hip Hop Gospel Music – sing a new song!
Hip Hop Gospel Dance – demonstrate and learn!
Hip Hop Bible Rap – Get your rap on!
Fun and Fellowship
- WORKSHOPS FOR YOUTH, WMS AND MINISTERS
MINISTER’S TRACK

TWO COURSES PROVIDED BY PAYNE THEOLOGICAL SEMINARY

TUESDAY, JULY 19, 2005 UNTIL WEDNESDAY, JULY 20, 2005
4 – 6:45 p.m. and 10 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.

Homiletics
The Rev. Dr. Frederick Wright, Adjunct Professor of Homiletics and pastor of Quinn Chapel AME. Church in the Third Episcopal District.

Strategic evangelism
The Rev Mark Tyler (Ph. D. Candidate) and pastor of Macedonia A.M.E. Church, New Jersey

- Continuing Education Credits and certificate from Payne Theological Seminary will be given to those who complete the course. All pastors must earn continuing education credits annually.

All preachers including pastors, ministers, licentiates, local preachers and evangelists are asked to register as soon as possible.

Your registration for the congress also includes registration for the two classes.

- Continuing Education Credits and certificate from Payne Theological Seminary will be given to those who complete the course. All pastors must earn continuing education credits annually.

All preachers including pastors, ministers, licentiates, local preachers and evangelists are asked to register as soon as possible.

Registration for the congress also includes registration for the two classes.

MINISTER’S TRACK REGISTRATION FORM

NAME:
ADDRESS:
TELEPHONE NUMBER:
ANNUAL CONFERENCE:
CHURCH: PASTOR (If applicable):
COURSES: (CHECK CHOICES):

____ HOMILETICS
TUESDAY – WEDNESDAY July 19-20

_____ STRATEGIC EVANGELISM
WEDNESDAY-THURSDAY JULY 20 – 21

You must pay congress registration: $50 due July 1, 2005 and on-site registration fee $55.

Make own hotel registration by June 17, 2005

7. WOMAN’S GENERAL ASSEMBLY, FRIDAY, NOV. 18TH THRU SAT., NOVEMBER 19, 2005:

Special Delivery of Water Breaking Praise Shower!!! Powerful Pain Relieving Preaching!!! Life Changing Labor-Shops!!!

Breath Taking Topics include, “Push Until You Birth the Promise,” “Out of Your Belly & Into a Blessing,” “Happy Birth Day, Baby,” “After Birth, Then What” …and more

Opening Friday, Nov. 18th @ 7 p.m. -- Water Breaking PRAISE SHOWER *Daughters of Shabach Dance Ministry *New Covenant Praise Band

*The Voices of Africa Choral Ensemble *The Birth Day Choir

Closing Service--Saturday. Nov. 19th @4 p.m. -- “Happy Birth Day, Baby
(Registration is Friday, Nov. 18th at 6 p.m. – 7 p.m.)