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. PRESIDENT ELLEN JOHNSON SIRLEAF, LIBERIAN PRESIDENT AND MEMBERS OF CONGRESS COMMENDED THE WORK OF THE AFRICAN METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH:
President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf's address before the Joint Session of Congress on March 15 was truly historic.
In a reception following the address, she praised the work of the African Methodist Episcopal Church. Members of Congress who spoke also commended the work of the AME Church.
Bishop Adam Jefferson Richardson attended the events.
Ambassador Bismarck Myrick
University Lecturer in International Affairs Former United States Ambassador:
Republic of Liberia
Kingdom of Lesotho
1200 Mill Run, Chesapeake, VA 23322
2. LIBERIA (CON’T):
Liberia has an unemployment rate of over 80% according to some of the information that was provided upon our arrival to Liberia. Monrovia is a bustling city. Time and again, people would say, “You should have seen this city and this country before the war.” The remnants of the violence in the country was evident everywhere. Young men with one or no limbs were a common site. The basic utilities such as potable water and electricity were not available. Hotels, business establishments, and those who could afford it, used generators to provide electricity. Poverty was evident everywhere.
The country is poor, but there is something about Liberia that transcends its poverty. The people are industrious. Children were selling candy, sweet drinks and other goods. People were selling bread, other food items, and were engaged in commerce, a real live market economy. The people, from children to adults were entrepreneurs. And, it helped me to understand how Africans can come to this America and open businesses and become successful entrepreneurs. The official data says that the unemployment rate is over 80%, but that does not mean that the people are not working. On the contrary, the people are working. Monrovia is bursting with activity and entrepreneurial activity.
In spite of their poverty, they have not lost hope. The African Methodist Episcopal Church is a vibrant presence, making a significant difference, and is an anchor in the community. Eliza Turner AME Church and AME University provide leadership for people of Monrovia. Eliza Turner AME Church is an institution in itself and to see the activities taking place in and around that church is encouraging and mind-boggling.
One of the impressions I received was an appreciation of AME worship. I traveled across the ocean to Liberia and found myself in one way, in a foreign country far from home, but in another way, it was like being in back in the United States because of the connectedness of the African Methodist Episcopal Church and especially the connectedness of the worship service. The call to worship, the Doxology, the Decalogue and other AME liturgy provided spiritual comfort and caused my spirit to be uplifted. The poverty disturbed me and my spirit was unsettled, but when I participated and shared in worship, my spirit was uplifted and I could feel the presence of God in Christ. When the choir sang in their dialect, I was engaged in worship and felt as if I could understand everything they were singing. Tears came to my eyes as I recalled and felt the ravages of slavery and injustice for the people, some of whom may have been my ancestors who were torn from this country and transported to a strange land far across the ocean. It was an eerie feeling hearing songs sung by the Susan Gross AME Church choir singing in a strange tongue that sounded familiar to me. Whether I understood the language or not, I certainly understood the spiritual message.
The brothers and sisters from the United States, preachers and laity, young and old – from the First, Third, Fourth, Fifth, Seventh, Eighth, and Thirteenth Episcopal Districts were there. The young people in the entourage from the United States were the granddaughter of Mrs. Jamesina Evans and the teenage daughter of Bishop and Supervisor Daniels.
The worship was global and yet we were one in worship and praise. We were one in training as Dr. Jeffrey Leath, Dr. Ellis Washington, Dr. Ronnie Brailsford, and Dr. George Flowers shared in a discussion on pastoral leadership. The ministers from the 14th Episcopal District were active in their listening and in their participation during the discussion period.
Many of the American clergy participated in the various worship services. Reverend Wayne Johnson, pastor of Mt. Zion AME Church, Dover, Delaware played the keyboard and sang his heart out. He organized a mass choir and they sang as if they were a choir from one of the large cities in the United States. The Eliza Turner choir and their musicians were awesome. They sounded just like Nashville, which is known as “Music City U.S.A.” I always enjoyed the times at the General Conference when the folks from Africa would gather on the stage and sing one of the African hymns. The choirs in Liberia sounded like what we hear at our annual conferences. They can sway and the folks can sing! Dr. Hearst “from the First” raised and sang the hymn, “I trust in God.” Presiding Elder Henrietta Scott Fullard preached a dynamic sermon entitled, “There is a Greater Power with us than with Him.”
A recurring theme spoken by several speakers throughout the week of the celebration was, “Don’t eat the seeds because if you eat the seeds, you will never have a harvest.”
All of the bishops preached – Bishops Bryant, Henning, Norris, McKenzie, and Grady. Bishop Daniels and Supervisor Daniels were the ultimate hosts.
And, let me mention Bishop Grady, who Bishop Daniels repeatedly referred to as “Retired, but not tired.” I found out that Bishop Grady was a college football scholarship recipient. I did not know that, but just watching him walk all over the place and through the airport, I saw a swagger of the football player. He walks with a swagger. He walked like an athlete and as the rest of us got tired, he seemed to get more energy. He may be retired, “but Bishop Grady is not tired.”
- To Be Continued.
3. DEBT-FREE AND PROSPEROUS LIVING – A BIBLICALLY BASED HOME STUDY COURSE:
This program is a “must have” material
Too many people are too far in debt. Too many of us consumers and are undisciplined when it comes to handling our finances.
Credit card debt is crippling so many families. Uncontrolled debt bogs us down and can throw us into an emotional tailspin. Many of us are hostages of home equity loans and other financial ploys that rip off our money and enslave our minds.
Driving a new car might give us status and bring us praise when we drive up in a new “ride,” but automobiles depreciate and new “rides” depreciate more. New car payments can squeeze the financial life out of us and bad financial decisions can asphyxiate us. Some of us need to discipline our lives and get out of debt; we need to be emancipated from the slavery of debt and lack of discipline.
Something to remember – “a car depreciates, real estate property appreciates.” If you had to choose, purchase that which appreciates – property.
Many of our churches conduct stewardship workshops and many of our bishops and pastors are concerned about the indebtedness of many of our members. When responsible preachers share about stewardship, what they teach involves much more than what we give in the offering plate. Stewardship represents knowing why we give, but more importantly how we, as stewards, manage the blessings that God provides. The question that we need to answer is how do we manage the talents that God has given us? Will we be cast off into darkness and have what we did not use appropriately taken away from us? On the other hand, will be hear God’s voice affirming our stewardship with the proclamation, “Well done, good and faithful servant…”
Debt-free living is a theme espoused by many responsible leaders. The world-renown Christian author, John Cummuta has done a great deal of research and has aired many commercials about being debt-free and growing our yield through what the Lord has provided.
Several years ago, GKM Product Development, headed by the Reverend Gary Moss, collaborated with John Cummuta and produced a biblically-based series for the African Methodist Episcopal Church and it is a wonderful product and has “seeds that should be planted” in every home and church.
I reviewed the audio and 2-book series and discovered that there are some things I need to do in my life to make better use of the gifts and resources that God has given to my family and me. I would recommend that every Pastor order this wonderful resource to keep as a resource for the member of their congregation. One section, addresses the issue of “How Bad it Really is to use Credit Cards.” An example is given, that if you carry four credit cards averaging 17 percent interest and they have a combined outstanding balance of $5,200. If you paid only the minimum monthly payment of (usually two percent of the outstanding balances or $10 minimum payment), it would take you 40 years and 8 months to pay them all off and your payments would total $16,990 over those four decades. The study course shares the steps to debt-free living and encourages the reader to start building a nest egg for living a higher quality of life and to prepare for retirement. Bishop Brookins is reported to have remarked, “Don’t let poverty and old age meet at the same time.”
There are only 1900 of the initial publication remaining. A second publication is scheduled for the summer of 2006.
The cost of the Stewardship Series is reasonable. Contact Customer Service at GKM, Inc, 368 Bluff City Boulevard, Elgin, IL 60120 or call 800.741-3395. Email: info@GKMpackagingdist.com
4. IRAQ - THREE YEARS LATER:
Voices of some Iraqis
An Iraqi said, "Three years after the American invasion of Iraq, I have only one wish," he went on to say, "I do not want democracy, food, electricity and water. I just do not want to die."
Another Iraqi said, "We've been waiting for years for true democracy to come, a democracy that makes everybody live and work together with respect and love. But here it is: a democracy with maximum chaos…"
“People no longer believed that helping Iraq was foremost on the U.S. agenda during the invasion.”
"The U.S. has won a tremendous strategic victory," which has come increasingly at the expense of Iraq.”
It is reported in the media that the war and its aftermath have so far cost the United States about $250 billion dollars.
Iraq remains the largest U.S. government reconstruction effort since the Marshall Plan following World War II.
5. CONTRAST THE IRAQ SITUATION WITH THE PLIGHT OF BLACK BOYS AND MEN IN AMERICA:
Black men in the United States face a far more dire situation than is portrayed by common employment and education statistics, a flurry of new scholarly studies warn, and it has worsened in recent years…(The New York Times, 3/20/06)
Black men without jobs are on the increase.
Incarceration rates climbed in the 1990's and reached historic highs in the past few years.
In 1995, sixteen percent of black men in their 20's who did not attend college were in jail or prison; by 2004, twenty-one percent were incarcerated.
By their mid-30's, 6 in 10 black men who had dropped out of school had spent time in prison.
In inner cities across the country, more than half of all black men still do not finish high school, said Gary Orfield, an education expert at Harvard and editor of "Dropouts in America" (Harvard Education Press, 2004).
Black men are more likely to be incarcerated and given longer prison sentences.
The war in Iraq has cost the United States about $250 billion. I wonder how many billions of dollars is being spent to correct the plight of black men in America? The answer is, “Not nearly the amount we have spent in Iraq.”
The dire situation with black men is epidemic and catastrophic and the nation is not concerned. The American attitude is “Lock ‘em up!”
6. NEWS FROM AROUND THE AME CHURCH:
Reference the State of Alabama passing a pardon for Rosa Parks.
"Why would brave people like this need to get a pardon from anyone? Someone needs to tell them that we treated you wrong,” the Rev. Joseph Rembert, pastor of St. Paul AME Church, said Monday. “I want my grandson to know what she did.”
7. THE INTERDENOMINATIONAL THEOLOGICAL CENTER DELIVERS DISTANCE EDUCATION MASTER OF DIVINITY PROGRAM IN SAVANNAH, GEORGIA:
A historical milestone in ministerial education has been accomplished in the Sixth Episcopal District of the African Methodist Episcopal Church. On February 25, 2006, seventeen (17) Masters of Divinity students received instruction in two classes (Missiology and New Testament) from the Interdenominational Theological Center in Atlanta, Georgia - using an internet-based distance education facility located at St. Philip AME Church in Savannah, Georgia. This achievement is unprecedented, not only within the 6th Episcopal District but also in the entire AME connection. The internet-based distance education enables ministerial students to take courses from ITC wherever the technological infrastructure is available. Using distance-learning technology, students are able to eliminate the travel expense and time related to on-site graduate degree education. M.Div. students who live in Savannah could incur over 180,000 miles of travel plus associated costs over a four-year period in pursuit of the seminary degree.
“We are extremely proud of the effort put forth by both the ITC administrators/ faculty and the Sixth Episcopal District ministers and students to make this happen,” says Bishop William P. DeVeaux, Presiding Bishop of the Sixth Episcopal District. “Dr. Dan Stevenson and Dr. John Foster have worked very hard to make this dream become a reality.”
The 6th District supported this program through seed funding of technology infrastructure equipment. The funding was instrumental in enabling a quick start-up for the project.
Rev. Dr. Dan Stevenson – Pastor of Trinity/Fountain AME Church in Savannah, GA – and serves as Project Director says, “This has been my dream for several decades, to bring accredited theological education to the Savannah area. God has truly brought together the right people, institutions, and infrastructure to allow this program to become a reality. In addition to the ITC Masters of Divinity program, we have also partnered with St. Leo University of St. Leo, Florida. A non-traditional under-graduate program offering degrees in Religion and Human Research Management (classes are held at Trinity-Fountain A.M.E. Church twice weekly) for those ministers who do not meet the basic requirements for admission into ITC” Dr. Stevenson (ITC ’85) is the key liaison administrator between ITC Atlanta and the students in Savannah. Dr. Stevenson also stated, “The program would not have been possible without the support and help of Bishop DeVeaux and the technological expertise of Dr. Foster.”
Rev. Dr. John Foster (ITC ’03) – Pastor of St. Philip AME Church in Savannah, Georgia, is also an electrical engineer with an earned Bachelor of Science, Masters of Science, and Ph.D. degrees. Dr. Foster says, “We are excited about working with the students and the setup of the necessary infrastructure.” As the host site, St. Philip provides T1 internet access (1,500,000 bits per second uplink and downlink speeds) in addition to the audio/video teleconferencing equipment. The facility enables real-time voice/data/video links between Atlanta and Savannah, Georgia.
The ITC Distance Learning program is being supported through a four-year curriculum offering, i.e., all necessary courses for the M.Div. degree will be sequentially offered. The faculty-approved course offering is vital for the success of the program. Dr. Michael Battle – President of ITC – says.
“The Distance Learning initiative is one of the most exciting programs in academic evolution. I applaud the faculty for their vision in supporting the program.” Due to the interactive nature of the Distance Learning Program, it has already been approved by the Association for Theological Schools (ATS). The Distance Learning Program is being offered in Savannah, Georgia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and Miami, Florida. The Savannah site hosts the largest number of
This program is adaptable to be replicated at other locations. “There is no reason why we can’t put programs like this across the Connection,” states Dr. Stevenson. “We can really make a difference in our offering of ministerial education.”
Congratulations to the ITC, 6th Episcopal District AME Church and Savannah, Georgia!
8. BISHOP BRYANT PREACHES AT GRANT A.M.E. CHURCH IN WATTS MARCH 26; ADDRESS HIGHLIGHTS EVENTS LEADING UP TO THE 2006 MEN IN THE FAITH CONFERENCE:
LOS ANGELES — (March 20, 2006) — The Rt. Rev. John R. Bryant will be the keynote speaker at Grant A.M.E. Church on Sunday, March 26, 2006, at 11 a.m.
“Bishop Bryant is a preacher par excellence and an extraordinary leader above reproach,” said the Rev. Leslie R. White, pastor of Grant for 11 years.
“Before being elected Bishop in 1988, Bryant shepherded congregations in Massachusetts and Maryland and earned a reputation as an anointed preacher and adept leader,” White continued. “He is definitely a ‘man of faith’ other men can emulate.”
Bryant’s address highlights the events leading to the 11th Annual Men in the Faith Conference April 9-13, when guest preacher Bishop Samuel L. Green of the 15th Episcopal District (South Africa) and guest teacher Rev. Dr. Mark Tyler, pastor of Bethel A.M.E. Church in West Chester, Pa., address the congregation.
Other conference activities include:
Men in Prayer – Fridays March 24 and 31 at 6:30 p.m. led by Grant members Matthew Bodden, Dexter Moon and Tony Robinson. The hour-long sessions focus on “Praying Effectively.”
Men’s Night Out – Tuesday, March 28 at 7:30 p.m. More than 65 men and their families will watch the Los Angeles Clippers take-on the defending national champion San Antonio Spurs at the Staples Center, in what may be a NBA playoff preview.
Men in Harmony – The Men in the Faith Conference Choir rehearses Wednesdays March 22 and 29, and April 5 at 7 p.m., under the direction of the renowned Theresa Jones-Bailey, who has toured internationally with the likes of Chaka Khan and Queen Latifah.
Men in Worship – Bishop Green, who set the 2005 Men’s Conference ablaze with his anointed messages, preaches on Sunday, April 9, at 8 a.m. and 11 a.m., and again Monday – Thursday, April 10-13, at 7:30 p.m. nightly.
Men in Study – Rev. Tyler leads thought-provoking, men-focused workshops Monday – Thursday, April 10-13, at 6:30 p.m. nightly.
These events come on the heels of a successful February Men in the Faith Fish Fry of red snapper and catfish dinners – fries, hush puppies, cole slaw, potato salad, bread, dessert and beverage – that sold out in only three hours.
Bryant’s divine appointment at Grant on Sunday is one of many in the in the past several weeks. In February, he led a delegation of missionary-minded ministers in a weeklong expedition to Zambia in southeastern Africa.
On March 10, Bryant was at First A.M.E. Church in Los Angeles for the International Day of Prayer: 12 hours of fervent prayers, liturgical dance, and praise and worship organized by the Women’s Missionary Society. Last week, he presided over the Fifth Episcopal District Mid-Year convocation, a weeklong gathering of more than 1,200 preachers and parishioners focusing on the spiritual development of the region.
Bryant is neither a stranger to Grant, the second-largest A.M.E. Church in the 14-state region over which he presides. Bryant officiated White’s wedding last August, when White and his lovely bride, Renee, renewed their vows on their 25th wedding anniversary.
Bryant was also one of the featured preachers during the 2005 Men in the Faith Conference.
Bryant’s wife, Rev. Cecilia Williams Bryant, Episcopal Supervisor of the Women’s Missionary Society and an outstanding preacher in her own right, keynoted the 11 a.m. worship service in mid-December.
About Grant A.M.E. Church
The second-largest A.M.E. Church west of the Mississippi is located at 10435 South Central Avenue, Los Angeles, California 90002, and is celebrating its 100th year of service to the Watts community. Worship services are heard on the radio each Sunday morning at 6 a.m. on KJLH 102.3 FM. Join us for worship on Sundays at 8 a.m. and 11 a.m. and for Sunday School at 9:30 a.m. Wednesday Hour of Power begins at 11:30 a.m. and Thursday night Soul Food starts at 6 pm. All are welcome; admission is free. For driving directions or for more information visit www.GrantAMEChurch.org or contact the Church office at 323-564-1151.
Submitted by the Rev. Kevin T. Taylor
9. TWO GRANT MEMBERS HONORED BY THE LONG BEACH ALUMNI CHAPTER OF ZETA PHI BETA SORORITY:
LOS ANGELES — (March 20, 2006) — Carolyn Daniels and Sharolyn Gailliard, both of Grant A.M.E. Church in Watts, were recently honored by the Long Beach Alumni Chapter of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc., for their dedicated service to the organization and community.
Daniels was named “Distinguished Zeta” and Gailliard was named “Zeta of the Year” by the Sigma Eta Zeta Chapter on the occasion of its fifth annual R.O.O.T.S. — Remembering Our Oath to Sisterhood — Celebration.
Nearly 200 persons attended the opulent affair at The Grand in Long Beach, themed “From Grains of Sand…To Pearls of Wisdom,” including the International Grand Basileus (president) Barbara C. Moore. The Rev. Leslie R. White and a large contingent of Grant members attended.
“We are so proud of Sis. Daniels and Sister Gailliard,” White said, beaming with pride. “We pray that the Lord will continue to bless them as they honor Christ in their sorority, on their jobs, here at Grant and in all of their endeavors.”
A golden life member and president of the Lambda Pi Zeta chapter, Daniels is a supervisor at St. Francis Medical Center in Lynwood. She is devoted wife of more than 20 years and loving mother of two daughters, and volunteers extensively with the American Red Cross, American Lung Association, Sickle Cell Disease Foundation and the March of Dimes, among many others.
Gailliard is a graduate of California State University, Dominguez Hills, and is an employee of the Los Angeles Superior Court. A charter member of the Sigma Eta Zeta Chapter, she is equally as involved at Grant where she is a member of the Steward Board, Voices for Christ Choir, Women’s Missionary Society, and is the Director of the Young People’s Division. After chairing the Youth Conference for the past several years, in January she chaired the 11th Annual Women in the Faith Sisters’ Conference with continued success.
Other 2006 R.O.O.T.S. Celebration honorees were:
- “Undergraduate of the Year,” Zeta Keri Premmer, a senior broadcasting journalism major at California State University, Long Beach
- Science/Technology Honoree, Nkiru Ogamba, an expert Aerospace Corporation engineer
- Business Honorees, Zetas Gia Neil and La Sonya Gibbs-Seamster, co-owners of Color Me Mine, a paint-your-own ceramics studio on Corona
- Education Honoree, Zeta Patrice Countz, a sixth grade teacher at Vanguard Middle School in Compton
- Community Honoree, Corlotta Adams, a director/producer/comedian/playwright and NAACP Theater Award-nominated actress.
Each recipient received a keepsake plaque or trophy, as well as commendations from the Board of Supervisors of Los Angeles County and their respective municipality.
Besides a delicious meal, attendees were also favored with musical selections by jazz band Scenic Root; poetry by Xross Roads Entertainment artists barzini and Dragon Fly; an inspiring address by Carolyn Tillman, special assistant to the superintendent of the San Bernardino Public Schools; door prizes and a raffle of a diamond tennis bracelet valued at $500.
About Grant A.M.E. Church
The second-largest A.M.E. Church west of the Mississippi is located at 10435 South Central Avenue, Los Angeles, California 90002, and is celebrating its 100th year of service to the Watts community. Worship services are heard on the radio each Sunday morning at 6 a.m. on KJLH 102.3 FM. Join us for worship on Sundays at 8 a.m. and 11 a.m. and for Sunday School at 9:30 a.m. Wednesday Hour of Power begins at 11:30 a.m. and Thursday night Soul Food starts at 6 pm. All are welcome; admission is free. For driving directions or for more information visit www.GrantAMEChurch.org or contact the Church office at 323-564-1151.
About Sigma Eta Zeta Chapter of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority
Chartered in Long Beach, California on April 12, 2001, by 10 remarkable women, the chapter has grown not only in size, but also in the depth of services provided to the community. Today, the chapter has approximately 20 active members and provides a wide range of community service programs including the annual R.O.O.T.S. Celebration, Tassels for Teens Bike-a-thon & Fitness Walk, A to Z mentoring program; individual development seminars; and youth outreach. Visit http://www.longbeachzetas.com/ for more information.
Submitted by the Rev. Kevin T. Taylor
10. THIRTEENTH EPISCOPAL DISTRICT ELEMENTARY SCHOOL PRINCIPAL HONORED IN THE NATION’S CAPITAL:
Patrice Renea Bolton Shipp, Principal of Delano Elementary School in Memphis, Tennessee, has been nationally recognized by the U.S. Department of Education for helping her students, teachers, and staff, meet the national standards mandated by the No Child Left Behind Act.
Under Principal Shipp's leadership, Delano was nominated for the award in 2004 by the Chief Education Officer of the Tennessee Department of Education. The U.S. Department of Education officially announced Delano being awarded this prestigious honor on September 23, 2005. Principal Shipp and Irene Gibbons, a teacher at Delano, were honored during a National Recognition Ceremony at our Nation's Capital on November 10-11, 2005, where they received a plaque and a flag signifying their No Child Left Behind – Blue Ribbon School status.
Shipp was selected to serve on a critical issues panel and delivered a presentation on Delano's academic success. Shipp explained during her presentation how Delano was able to rank in the top 10 percent in the state and the manner that her teachers and staff provided the momentum for students to succeed. She stressed Delano’s commitment to high-quality teaching, and emphasized that successful students are competent, knowledgeable, thoughtful, caring, principled, self-disciplined, and intrinsically motivated. She stressed the importance of parental involvement and discipline as a major aspect of learning. She commends the parents for being involved with their children's education. In her final comment, she stated students learn to differentiate good and poor classroom practices and establish class norms for student success. The school’s motto is, "Delano Optional School is Where Learning is not Optional."
The No Child Left Behind-Blue Ribbon Schools Program is based on adequate yearly progress (AYP) for three consecutive years. The program honors public and private K-12 schools that are either academically superior in their states or that demonstrate dramatic gains in student achievement. Delano Elementary, a predominately African-American school for grades K-6 with more than 40 percent of its students from disadvantaged backgrounds, was recognized for NCLB TCAP scoring in the top 10 percent on state assessments for the past 3 years. In 2005, students NCLB TCAP scoring results were 100 percent proficient in Reading and Language Arts, and 98 percent proficient in Math.
Out of 114,000 public and private schools in the nation, only 295 schools were named No Child Left Behind – Blue Ribbon Schools for 2005. This prestigious award was given to only four schools in the state of Tennessee and Delano was the only school to receive the award in Memphis.
Delano Optional School has been instrumental in Shipp’s education and career. Shipp, a former student at Delano Elementary, received her Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education in 1990 from the University of Memphis. She received a Masters in Education in Educational Leadership: Administration and Supervision in 1993 from the University of Mississippi in Oxford. Shipp received her first teaching assignment to Delano Elementary in 1990. In 1995, she was assigned to Graves Elementary, where she taught for one year. In 1996, Shipp was appointed Assistant Principal at Oakshire Elementary. In 2002, Shipp was assigned Principal at Delano Elementary. After 16 years in the Memphis City School system, Shipp’s hard work, dedication, and superior leadership abilities have truly paid off.
Patrice R. Bolton Shipp is a member of Greater Payne Chapel A.M.E. Church in Memphis, Tennessee in the North Memphis District, under the pastoral leadership of the Rev. Quinten L. Smith, Sr. The Reverend Dr. C. Robert Finch is the Presiding Elder of the North Memphis District, and the Right Reverend Vashti Murphy McKenzie is the Presiding Prelate of the 13th Episcopal District.
11. KNOXVILLE COLLEGE OFFERS AN OPPORTUNITY TO NEEDY STUDENTS:
Historically black Knoxville College, in East Tennessee, has reduced its tuition from $5,000 to $1,400 per student including room, board, and books!All you need is $600 for the enrollment deposit and $800 can be paid in four monthly installments of $200 each. The program is funded by corporate sponsors and guarantees a college education where students graduate debt free. Enrollment requirements include a high school diploma and a 2.0/4.0 scale. If your student has below a 2.0, but you know they are college material, they may be considered if they can provide three letters of recommendation. For educators who will support their potential. All interested students must immediately contact the admissions office at Knoxville College by dialing 1-800-743-5669 or by applying on line at:http://www.knoxvillecollege.edu/
12. 100 HISTORICAL AFRICAN AMERICAN WOMEN:
Discover “100 Historical African-American Women”, a multi-media presentation produced by author Charles Street of Atlanta, Georgia. This historical presentation remembers our African-American female pioneers of yesteryear in the 21st century. Street highlights Black women in the following areas: art, athletics, aviation, business, civil rights, entertainment, education, journalism, law, politics, medicine, religion, writers & authors, and pioneers.
This celebration of black history has been acclaimed by Dr. Merchuria Williams, President of the Georgia Association of Educators, as “exceptional because it records both legendary figures and those with little notoriety. It is from the voices that are usually heard in the annuals of our history and those we know so well in this presentation that we learn with focus and determination.”
Book “100 Historical African-American Women” for black history month in February or women’s history month in March. This interactive event is for all people of all races and all ages and can be presented for your organization or school by calling Mr. Street at (770) 256-4034. After experiencing this walk through history, individuals will learn about women such as Sadie Alexander, the first black woman to graduate with a Bachelor of Science, Master’s in Economics, Ph.D. in Economics, and a Jurist Doctorate degree or perhaps one will be enlightened by Charlotte Spears Bass, the first black woman to run for the vice president of the United States.
Look out for 100 Historical African-American Women, the book, by Charles Street at local bookstores available in spring 2006. Discover the amazing extraordinary contributions of ordinary women. Contact us today by calling 770-256-4034.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
Charles Street
3131 North Druid Hills Road
Suite 7107
Decatur, Georgia 30033
(770) 256-4034
Web site: http://www.100haaw.com/
E-mail: info@100haaw.com
13. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
We regret to inform you of the passing of Rev. Leon Gipson. He was a former pastor and Presiding Elder in the New Brunswick District, New Jersey Annual Conference of the First Episcopal District.
The following information has been provided regarding funeral arrangements.
Viewing will be held Thursday, March 16, 2006
Viewing - 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Funeral will be held Friday, March 17, 2006
Funeral - 11:00 a.m.Viewing and Funeral will be held at:
Mount Zion A.M.E. Church
135 Perry Street
Trenton, NJ 0868
Rev. J. Stanley Justice, PastorPhone: 609-695-4475Fax: 609-394-2808
Bishop Richard F. Norris, Eulogist
Condolences may be sent to:
Mrs. Charlotte Gipson
1100 Parkside Ave.
Trenton, NJ 08638
or
Mt. Zion A.M.E. Church - see abovePlease remember the entire Gipson family in your prayers.
14. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
We regret to inform you of the passing of Mrs. Elizabeth Davis. She was the mother of Rev. Lugenure Jones, pastor at Ekklesia A.M.E. Church (Philadelphia District, Philadelphia Conference) and widow of the late Rev. Frank R. Davis, former pastor in the First Episcopal District.
The following information has been provided regarding funeral arrangements.
Viewing and Funeral will be held Sunday, March 19, 2006 at:
Mother Bethel A.M.E. Church
419 Richard Allen Ave.
Philadelphia, PA 19147
The Rev. Jeffrey N. Leath, Pastor
Phone: 215-925-0616Fax: 215-925-1402
The Rev. John Ragin, Eulogist
Former Presiding Elder of the New Brunswick District
Viewing - 5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.
Funeral - 7:00 p.m.
Condolences may be sent to:
The Rev. Lugenure Jones and family
7227 E. Walnut Lane
Philadelphia, PA 19138
or
Mother Bethel A.M.E. Church - see abovePlease keep the entire Jones family in your prayers.
15. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
We regret to inform you of the passing of Mr. Bennie Houston. He was the brother-in-law of Presiding Elder Charles Drummer (Wilmington District, Delaware Annual Conference).
The following information has been provided regarding funeral arrangements.
Funeral will be held Saturday, March 18, 2006 at:
Owens Temple First Christ Holiness Church
4011 Rockdell Street
Savannah, GA 31405
Phone: 912-443-9003
Funeral - 1:00 p.m.
Funeral Home:
Williams and Williams Funeral Home
1012 E. Gwinnett Street
Savannah, GA 31401
Phone: 912-234-1634
Condolences may be sent to:
Rev. & Mrs. Charles Drummer
404 Walker Road
Dover, DE 19904-2850
Or to:
Owens Temple First Christ Holiness Church - see above
Or to:
Williams and Williams Funeral Home - see above
Please keep the entire Drummer family in your prayers.
16. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
From: amebrann512@aol.com
The 12th Episcopal District Administrative Offices
Richard Allen Chappelle, Sr., Presiding Bishop
Mrs. Lillian Brewster, the mother of the Reverend Angela Brewster Piggee, Pastor of St. James AME Church, Texarkana, Arkansas (12th Episcopal District AMEC) passed on Thursday, March 16, 8:00 AM.
Funeral Arrangements:
Tuesday, March 21st.
1:00 PM
Lonoke Baptist Church
1814 Lonoke Avenue
Texarkana, AR
Services entrusted to:
Haynes Mortuary Incorporated
7238 West 7th Street
Texarkana, TX 75501
903-838-6000 (Phone)
903-838-0111 (Fax)
Condolences may be sent to:
Reverend Angela Brewster Piggee
St. James AME Church
938 Ash Street
Texarkana, AR 75502
Please remember Reverend Angela Piggee and her family in your prayers.
17. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
FROM: clinton@1stdistrict-ame.com
Bishop Richard F. Norris
1st Episcopal District
Homegoing Services for Rev. Clarence Bass
We regret to inform you of the passing of Rev. Clarence Bass. He was a founding member of Saint James A.M.E. Church in Utica, New York (Western New York Conference).
Rev. Bass was 102 years old when he passed away and leaves a wife of 74 years of marriage. The following information has been provided regarding funeral arrangements.
Viewing and Funeral will be held Tuesday, March 21, 2006 at:
Hope AME Zion Church
751 South Street
Utica, New York 13502
The Rev. Lawrence Lucas, Pastor
Phone: 315-732-0536
Viewing – 12 noon – 1:00 p.m.
Funeral – 1:00 p.m.
Services are entrusted to:
Revel’s T/Gibson Funeral Services
144 Eagle Street
Utica, New York 13502
Condolences may be sent to:
Mrs. Eula Bass
30 Parkside Ct.
Utica, New York 13501
Please remember the family in your prayers.
18. CLERGY FAMILY 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.
19. 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.
20. WITH SO MUCH HEAVINESS IN THE NEWS, LET US TAKE A MOMENT TO LAUGH:
A WARNING ABOUT THIS e-mail virus. Even the most advanced programs from Norton or McAfee cannot take care of this one. It appears to affect those who were born prior to 1965.
Symptoms:
1. Causes you to send the same e-mail twice. done that!
2. Causes you to send a blank e-mail! that too!
3. Causes you to send e-mail to the wrong person. yep!
4. Causes you to send it back to the person who sent it to you. who me?
5. Causes you to forget to attach the attachment. well darn!
6. Causes you to hit "SEND" before you've finished. oh no - not again!
7. Causes you to hit "DELETE" instead of "SEND." and I just hate that!
8. Causes you to hit "SEND" when you should "DELETE."
Oh No!
IT IS CALLED THE "C-NILE VIRUS."
Archive of The Christian Recorder Online from 2004-2016; Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III, 20th Editor of The Christian Recorder
