THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER ONLINE ENGLISH EDITION (4/21/06)

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. THE GLOBAL CORNER: THE NINETEENTH EPISCOPAL DISTRICT OF THE AFRICAN METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH:

“Inspired by the Spirit, Empowered by the Vision
Partnering to Make a Difference”

- The Christian Recorder Report

The church has elected a Bishop who is equal to the challenges we face: whether it is a church seeking to expose its missionary presence within the South African, Africa or Global Christian Community; as a spiritual fountain of growth; or as an institution expressing its Christian social responsibility or as part of a beacon of light to the unchurched.

Bishop James Levert Davis, Presiding Bishop and Episcopal Supervisor mother Arelis B. Davis, could not have come these shores at a better time, as we enter what former President Mandela in his farewell banquet speech referred to as the “African Century”.

Upon close analysis of his VISION and propounded DREAMS, particularly “SELF HELP 19” one realises the mettle of the man. He has been embraced with warm and open hands by all those serving the course of African Methodism. The entire 19th has pledged to work under him; alongside him; to rally behind him as equal partners and as followers of his anointed leadership, thus making a reality of our hopes, to transcend the challenges that lie ahead.

He was blessed to be in ministry now for 39 years and was elected the 123rd consecrated Bishop in African Methodism to serve the 19th as his initial point of entry in the episcopacy. In his own words he says “I have come eager and excited to be engaged in the highest service GOD could use me for”.

Bishop Davis expressed the view that he remembered that our connectional polity binds us together in faith and service in our global witness, enabling faith to become active in love. He used that as a barometer that led him to examine several attributes that he believed, constitute a healthy District.

After eight months in the job he has:

- BROUGHT fiscal soundness, effective and accountable stewardship and equally as important responsiveness to spiritual growth.

- VISITED 201 of the 206 circuits that comprise the 19th Episcopal District

- DEVELOPED A SYSTEM that all voucher payments be authorised and signed by the Bishop’s office.

- NEED to REVITALIZE our churches “we need to return to the precepts and guiding principles established by the founders and early leaders of African Methodism.

- STRENGTHEN our evangelism outreach programs to identify new “markets”.

- In his travels, was blessed to meet an unparallel level of commitment and dedication, being an eye witness of pastors who preach the gospel from a pulpit situated on the mud ground, with tin walls and sides anchored together and supported by chains and padlocks.

- Regarding our academic facilities: he said that when we as a church, commit to the higher education of our students, we owe them a chance to matriculate and succeed. And that we provide an environment that not only supports learning, but also an academic institution that is responsible to their total needs.

- He said, he was convinced, having met the Boards of Trustees, faculty, staff and students of Wilberforce Community College and R. R. Wright Theological school that these two institutions must continue to affirm the founding principles of African Methodism and solidify their internal operations

- He found the conditions at R. R. Wright Theological School unacceptable – lack of food; unacceptable class room instruction; poor housing accommodation; class boycotts; repeated telephone calls about the status of the institution. A caution was sounded “I am here to let you know that the days of everyone doing what they think is right in their own minds must end.”

- Wilberforce Community College operates at a substantial deficit annually; tighter controls need to be put in place. Bishop Davis implored all concerned to send their learners to WCC.

- During his church visitations he found churches with unpaid rates and bills as high as R100,000. In the quarterly reports, he would ask questions to respond to these concerns. Some churches were sitting on property that the church does not own.

- On a positive note, he stated that he was immensely proud to report a 96% compliance-registration by churches, with the South African Revenue Services and commended RAYAC for a job well done!

- More retiring clergy were being subsidised through the Inter-District Retirement Plan than ever before, Stipend Support to all full-time pastors had also been increased.

- He CALLED on the clergy to renew their passion for ministry citing that “There is more in the man than there is in the land”. Going on he further mentioned “Don’t lose our joy; GOD is still the same GOD HE was when you took your vows”.

- IDEA, of all Wilberforce Graduandi past and present was mooted by the Bishop at the Episcopal Plenary in Thabong, Welkom. This was fervently discussed and accepted enthusiastically.

- NUMEROUS committees were put in place allowing for maximum member-participation.

- For the FIRST time in history, the broad spectrum members of the church received personalised notification of the forthcoming Mid–Year Convocation.

- Perhaps the EPITOME and EMBODIMENT, encompassing the grandest dream and vision of the 19th Episcopal District, is the nobly conceived “ SELF HELP 19”

Bishop Davis stated that “SELF-HELP” is not just a phrase, it is a mind –set that says, regardless of the enormity of the task, the steepness of the mountain, the depth of the sea, I need only speak the words in faith – Move Mountain! That also means we’ve got to start expecting more from GOD!

CONCLUSION
As the ink on this paper dries up, so is work being carried out at the R. R. Wright School to revamp the buildings, immediate surroundings, and portals, a colossal task indeed.


HOPE VILLAGE!!!!!! Yes. To crown it all, will be a self contained, self sufficient unit housing built by the sweat and toil of African Methodism infused by the hundred – horse – power – brain of the man himself , Bishop JAMES LEVERT DAVIS.

I Align myself with the words of one LIFE member, in the person of mother A.S.K Ngqoyi who exclaimed that (Bishop Davis) indeed is a man whose vision and concern is to lift the down trodden !

Presented on behalf of:-

The Christian Recorder Reporters

Sister. C. Thelele, District Coordinator
Brother Don Ngqoyi
The Rev. M. Mzangwa
The Rev. L. Mokoena
The Rev. S. D. Kgonothi
The Rev. E. T. T. Msibi

2. GLOBAL DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL - ABBREVIATED ACTION MINUTES OF THE GDC EXECUTIVE BOARD MEETING:

Prepared by the Rev. Willem Simon Hanse

Sixteenth Episcopal District
Crowne Plaza Hotel, Port of Spain, Trinidad
13-14 March 2006


Bishop Wilfred J Messiah, Chairman
Bishop C T Guidry, Host Bishop
Rev. Willem Simon Hanse, Secretary
Monday, 13 March 2006

Bishop Wilfred J Messiah called the gathering to order at 10h15 and called the Rev. Noah Nyamaropa from the 20th Episcopal District to conduct the devotion.

Devotion
The Rev. Nyamaropa and Bro. Philip Nhekairo led us in singing “We have come into this House…” The Rev. Daniel Jacobs from the 15th Episcopal District offered the prayer, after which Rev. Rudolph Aaron from the 16th Episcopal District read the Scripture Lesson from Psalm 133:1-3. Mother Carol Messiah and Bro. Phillip Nhekairo led us in singing “There’s no one like Jesus”, after which the closing prayer was offered by the Rev. Salomon Nxumalo.

Business Session 1
The meeting was called to order at 10h30 by Bishop Wilfred J Messiah, the GDC Chairman and Presiding Prelate of the 20th Episcopal District. Bishop Messiah thanked the participants for the devotion conducted and also welcomed one and all to the first meeting of the Executive Board of the Global Development Council. Bishop Messiah appreciated and acknowledged the presence of Bishop Sara F Davis, Presiding Prelate of the 18th Episcopal District, and expressed concern that the meeting will have to craft its own agenda, since he didn’t want to prescribe to the GDC Executive Meeting. Bishop Davis conveyed greetings and best wishes to the meeting on behalf of the 18th Episcopal District, apologised for the absence of Supervisor Davis. Bishop Davis also informed the meeting that the former Episcopal lay representative has now been ordained a pastor, but that he has not been substituted yet and hence, is absent from this meeting. She solicited prayers and support for the ongoing work and ministry in the 18th District.

The Secretary called the GDC Executive Board Roll as follows:
Names & Positions Present Absent
Bishop Wilfred J Messiah (Chairman) X
Bishop Paul J Kawimbe (17th District) X
Bishop Carolyn T Guidry (16th District) X
Bishop James L Davis (19th District) X
Bishop David R Daniels (14th District) X (apology)
Bishop Samuel L Green SR (15th District) X (apology)
Bishop Sarah F Davis (18th District) X
Mother Carol Messiah (20th District) X
Rev. Willem S Hanse (Secretary -15th) X
Rev. M J Mothebedi (Ass-Secr – 19th) X
Rev. Wayne Anthony (Treasurer – 16th) X
14th District ministerial delegate X
14th District lay delegate X
Rev. Daniel Jacobs (15th District) X
Bro. Daniel Deke (15th District) X (apology)
Rev. Rudolph U Aaron (16th District) X
Mrs. Arona Burkett (16th District) X
Mrs. Suzanna Matale (17th District) X
Ministerial delegate (17th District) X
Rev. Salomon Nxumalo (18th District) X
Bro. A Lebopo (ordained and to be replaced) X
Rev. Mothebdathe (19th District) X
Bro. Mayana (19th District) X
Rev. Noah Nyamaropa (20th District) X
Bro. Phillip Nhekairo (20th District) X
Total: 12 13

The meeting discussed the continued absence of some of our leaders, and also requested the Secretary to write letters to Bishops Daniels and Kawimbe requesting them to forward nominations to complete the composition of the Executive Board of the Global Development Council. At this point the Rev. Wayne Anthony apologised for the delayed arrival of Bishop Guidry and welcomed us to Trinidad and Tobago and the 16th Episcopal District. The meeting strongly felt that the chairman should designate the GDC Secretary as the Chief Information Officer of the GDC, in order to communicate information about and on the Global Development Council throughout the AME Church Connection.

Under the able leadership of Bishop Messiah, the meeting agreed to first itemise the Agenda from the List of Concerns in the Minutes of the GDC Inaugural Meeting, after which the issues were discussed in detail. The Bishop also read and explained the composition and duties of the Executive Board of the GDC, in order to reach a common understanding of our role at this meeting.

The following Agenda issues were identified:
1) Inclusion and more meaningful role in the connectional church,
2) Field representatives,
3) Development of GDC Budget,
4) Economic development and empowerment,
5) Legislative process (old and new bills revisited),
6) Crafting of social program with regards to health, education, poverty reduction and HIV/Aids,
7) Literature and Liturgy in local languages,
8) Spirituality versus Civil, Cultural and Church Law,



Having highlighted eight (8) areas of concern (or agenda items), the meeting than decided on the strategy whereby each area of concern will be discussed in detail, and that members of the GDC Executive Board will be grouped to discuss and prepare detailed reports to the GDC Biennial Meeting in 2007.

Herewith the framework of each Agenda Item:

a. On the issue of inclusion, the meeting felt that the GDC must continue to play the advocacy role for a more meaningful role within the General Church. This should include achieving the 25% target set by the AJC on the Council of Bishops, General Officer positions and in the Connectional auxiliaries. The meeting has, furthermore, taken note of the Council of Bishop’s Retreat in Jamaica (February 2006) and Mini-Lay Summit held in Johannesburg (March 2006), and continues to encourage the hosting of more Connectional meetings outside continental-USA. On the issue of salary disparity between American and African bishops, the meeting referred this issue for discussion at the next meeting of the full GDC. With regards to the 48th Session of the General Conference in 2008, the meeting felt to recommend to the GDC Biennial Meeting that we should request the Church to elect at least one bishop from amongst the candidates representing District 14 through 20.

- The meeting has designated Rev. Daniel Jacobs and Bro. Phillip Nhekairo to ensure that a presentation is made to the GDC Biennial Meeting in 2007 to this effect.

b. On the issue of Field Representatives, the meeting requested the Secretary to write a letter to the General Officers Council, requesting them to expedite this process. The meeting felt that the Field Representatives Bill, including the GDC Director, must be reviewed to ensure that the GDC has some manpower to execute its decisions.

- The meeting has designated Rev. Salomon Nxumalo and Sist. Irinie Burkett to ensure that a presentation is made to the GDC Biennial Meeting in 2007 to this effect.

c. On the issue of the Budget, it was moved by the Rev. Willem Simon Hanse and seconded by the Rev. Salomon Nxumalo that the Financial Report which was read by the Rev. Wayne Anthony, treasurer of the GDC, be adopted. Bishop Messiah informed the meeting that three attempts to wire funds from the 20th Episcopal District to the GDC Account have failed. Hence, Bishop Messiah promised that the money will be transferred soonest by cheque to the GDC Treasurer. On the preparation of the Budget, the Committee acknowledged the preparatory work undertaken by the GDC Finance Committee, and encouraged the GDC Treasurer to continue developing the Financial Budget of the GDC. The meeting also felt that equal membership fees (US$ 1 000-00) for each District be reviewed in line with the pro rata membership and strength previously paid for the AJC.

- The meeting has designated Rev. Wayne Anthony and Rev. Noah Nyamaropa, together with the GDC Finance Committee, to ensure that a presentation is made to the GDC Biennial Meeting in 2007 and the bishops presiding over Districts 14-20.

At this point, the chairman thanked everybody for their positive attitude and contributions, and the Rev. Rudolph U Aaron adjourned the Session with the closing prayer at 14h05.

Business Session 2
The meeting commenced at 15h30 with Bishop Sara F Davis chairing, and continued discussing the areas of concern:

- On the issue of Economic Development and Empowerment the meeting felt the need that ordained and lay leadership must be trained to preach and teach tithing as the official stewardship position of the African Methodist Episcopal Church. Pastors must know that they should lead by precept and example. This source of income must be complemented with other streams of revenue. Meeting has taken note of the Golden Medallion fundraiser project in the 20th District, and the GDC could become a marketing tool of such fundraiser projects in the AME global community. The meeting also heard encouragement to consider the establishment of a ‘funeral undertaking’ as a pilot project, from which model a couple of branches could be extended.

- The meeting has designated Reverends Rudolph Aaron, Wayne Anthony, Noah Nyamaropa and Willem Hanse together with Bro. Phillip Nhekairo to ensure that a presentation is made to the GDC Biennial Meeting in 2007.

a. On revisiting old and new Bills, the meeting felt that Districts 14-20 have to be sensitized, by means of a circular by the GDC Secretary, to prepare and present draft Bills at the next GDC Biennial Meeting. Here, the meeting was reminded that redistricting of Episcopal Districts (and internal arrangements) in especially southern Africa has to be reopened, and that Episcopal leaders of affected Episcopal Districts should restart the process of dialogue on new boundaries and configurations.

The Secretary will ensure that the Format of Bills is emailed to whosoever requests these from him (stjamesmariental@yahoo.com). The meeting also encouraged leaders to ensure that the African Methodist Episcopal Church, irrespective of the Incorporation in Philadelphia, USA must also be registered with all authorities in all sovereign countries in order to ensure that we fulfil the legal requirements of all sovereign Governments.
The meeting has also sadly noted the signing of the Covenant by candidates from Districts 14-20 at the 47th Session of the General Conference (2004) and expressed its opposition to any differential treatment our present or future bishops (and candidates) from Districts 14-20 may be subjected to.

- The meeting has designated Reverends Willem Hanse and Daniel Jacobs to ensure that a presentation is made to the GDC Biennial Meeting in 2007.

a. On the Social Programs dealing with Health (HIV-Aids), Poverty and Education, the meeting felt that the process of Field Representative appointments must be expedited, and that they should assist in developing meaningful programs for Districts 14-20. There is also a need to consider drafting a bill that will create the Office of the GDC Director, who would basically coordinate the work of the GDC and ensure that our programs and projects are seen through. The GDC Director would synergise the work of the GDC with the Episcopal Coordinators, and it was also argued that the GDC Secretary could be considered as a Field Representative of the General Secretary and CIO of the AME Church, and be responsible for the total administration of the GDC affairs. Additionally, the GDC Treasurer could become the Field Representative of the Treasurer of the AME Church, and also become the Program Officer ensuring that the Budget of the GDC is covered.

- The meeting has designated Rev. Salomon Nxumalo and Sist. Irinie Burkett to ensure that a presentation is made to the GDC Biennial Meeting in 2007 to this effect, and

- The GDC Secretary will write a letter to the General Officer’s Council to expedite the appointment of the Field Representatives.

a. On the issue of Liturgy and Literature in local languages, the meeting has taken note of concerns and needs to translate our hymns and liturgies in more indigenous languages. The meeting has noted past and present translation work in many of the Districts 14-20, and would encourage our people to initiate and own this important work. As such, future GDC meetings could also include opportunities (meetings & training workshops) of Association of Writers, etc. and that we should enlist the Department of Christian Education to help with this.
- The meeting has designated Rev. Wayne Anthony and Rev. Noah Nyamaropo to ensure that a presentation is made to the GDC Biennial Meeting in 2007.

a. the issue of Spirituality versus Civil Laws, Church Law and Culture, the meeting has noted the diversity offered by Districts 14-20, and that the AME Church shall respect and honour local laws and cultures. This, however, shall not be at the expense of our spirituality and the person and salvation plan of Jesus Christ, and that we shall continue to preach the liberating and reconciling Gospel in word and deed. Another concern raised was the issue of appointment of marriage officers, because a lot of AME ministers are not license to conduct weddings. It was advised that Boards of Examiners in all Conference could negotiate with Governments to facilitate the training and testing of such applicants. The ordination authority is not enough, because pastors have to study Marriage Acts of the respective countries and write difficult test with limited chances on the Marriage Act.

- The meeting has designated the bishops serving in Districts 14-20 to ensure that a presentation is made to the GDC Biennial Meeting in 2007.

a. On the issue of Communication and Public Relations, the meeting felt the need that the activities of the GDC must be communicated to the AME leaders and constituencies all over the world. It was argued that a nice informative booklet / information bulletin on the GDC must be developed, carrying the aspirations of the Districts 14-20 and made available throughout the AME Connection. We must also strive to arrange for Information Booths at major AME meetings, whereby visitors could pick up information on the GDC. The PR-exercise must carefully nourish the GDC to become a sustained and well-develop institution for Districts 14-20, that will concentrate not only on advocacy during elections, but will strive to bring about development of the Church in District 14-20 and that we will partner the Department of Global Development (Dr. Flowers) and the Service and Development Agency (Dr. Nicholas) in this regard.

- The meeting has designated Bishop Wilfred J Messiah and the Reverends Willem Hanse and Salomon Nxumalo to ensure that a presentation is made to the GDC Biennial Meeting in 2007.

At this point the Reverend Willem Hanse tabled a motion of appreciation to the bishops currently serving our Districts, for their commitment and faithfulness to this process, and especially to the Districts (and bishops) who have ensured the full representation of the delegates at this meeting. This motion also included a special word of commendation and praise to Bishop Wilfred Messiah and Bishop Sarah F Davis for their presence and guidance. The meeting has also taken note that Bishop Guidry has missed her plane earlier and would only join us the following day but have expressed a special vote of thanks to Bishop Carolyn T Guidry and the people of the 16th Episcopal District for their generous and kind hospitality. Bishop Wilfred J Messiah announced that the bishops will meet with the Trinidad and Tobago Prime Minister the next morning, and that the Tuesday morning session will be used for the work of the committees.

The meeting adjourned at 21h35 until Tuesday, 14 March 2006 at 12h00 with the Rev. Ucklyn Hendricks saying the evening prayer.

Tuesday, 14 March 2006

Business Session 3

Bishop Wilfred J Messiah called the meeting to order at 12h00 with the Rev. Thorne from the 16th Episcopal offering a prayer.

Bishop Guidry tendered apology for late arrival due to bad flight connections and expressed the hope that the 16th District representatives had taken good care of us and also that all deliberations of the GDC will represent its international character.

Dr. George Flowers, General Officer for Global Development and Witness brought greetings from the General Officer’s Council, and emphasised his interest and support (as a partner) in and for the work of the GDC.

The following are abbreviated highlights of the Committee Reports:

- Report on Inclusion:
It was moved by Rev. Wayne Anthony and seconded by Rev. W Simon Hanse that the report be received. The report requests the GDC and its constituency to ensure that the 25% representation (quota) request of the AJC be honoured by the 48th Session of the General Conference in 2008. The Report also requests that the issue of Covenant and differential treatment given to Bishops elected from the African continent in 2004 be discussed at the next GDC Biennial Meeting.

- Report on Economic Empowerment
It was moved by Sister Irine Burkett and seconded by Rev. Salomon Nxumalo that the Report be received. The Report calls on the upcoming GDC Biennial Meeting to consider additional streams of revenue for the GDC activities in line with the AMEC principle of self-reliance.


- Report on Budget
It was moved by Rev. Rudolph Aaron and seconded by Bro. Phillip Nekhairo that the Report be received. The essence of the Report dealt with the activation of payment of budget allocations by Episcopal Districts and also to lodge an appeal with the upcoming General Conference 2008 to consider funding the GDC activities from the General Budget.

- Report on Liturgy and Literature
It was moved by Rev. W Simon Hanse and seconded by Bro. Phillip Nekhairo that the Report be received. The upcoming GDC Biennial Meeting to consider this issue at length, in order to take stock of local hymns and liturgies available in Districts 14-20 and to ensure that funding is available to continue the translation of more hymns and liturgies (especially Catechism booklets) in local languages.

- Report on Legislative Process
It was moved by Rev. Wayne Anthony and seconded by Rev. Salomon Nxumalo that the Report be received. The Report called on all Episcopal Districts 14-20 to revisit old and new legislation, and to summit and channel the same through their Annual Conference and Episcopal Districts no later than 30 November 2006 to the Rev. W Simon Hanse, GDC Secretary.

The Rev. Hanse will also make available a sample of a draft bill available upon request to those intending or responsible for drafting legislation for their constituencies. The Rev. Hanse will also issue a Circular to all Episcopal Districts 14-20, sensitizing leaders to reopen dialogue on Re-alignment of Episcopal Districts in especially southern Africa. The Report also sensitized Episcopal leadership to ensure that the African Methodist Episcopal Church is properly incorporated in all sovereign Nations covering the GDC. The Report finally called upon the upcoming GDC meeting to consider the Covenant signed by African candidates in 2004 and to petition the 2008 General Conference to refrain from differential treatment.

- General
The GDC Secretary and CIO will write invitation letters to General Officers, inviting them to the GDC Bi-Annual Meeting in 2007. The GDC thanked Bishop Samuel L Green Sr and the 15th Episcopal District for inviting the GDC Bi-Annual Meeting to Cape Town, South Africa. This meeting will take place on 6-7 February 2007. Rev. Salomon Nxumalo and the Rev. Daniel Jacobs expressed words of appreciation to the 16th Episcopal District for their gracious hospitality and the bishops of the Districts 14-20 for their sterling leadership qualities displayed so far, and also to Dr. Flowers for being a faithful partner of the GDC. Bishop Guidry offered the closing prayer, petitioning God for the success of the GDC dreams and aspirations.
AME’s urge nation’s leaders to make health care coverage for all Americans a priority.

Submitted by the Reverend Willem Simon Hanse

3. LEADERS OF PROMINENT GROUPS CALL ON AME’S TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE:

Washington, DC – African Methodist Episcopal (AME) leaders are encouraging their members across the nation to help those among them who do not have health care coverage and to tell our nation’s leaders to make health care coverage for Americans a top priority.

They are joining a diverse coalition of faith communities nationwide in supporting Cover the Uninsured Week – the largest campaign in history to focus attention on the need to secure health coverage for all Americans – by planning events before, during, and after the Week, May 1-7, 2006.

The effort involves Catholic, Jewish, Protestant, and Muslim leaders working together to help the uninsured, much as they have done historically for the poor, sick, and homeless. The events underscore the moral and ethical dimensions of this growing national problem and highlight the moral imperative to respond. Events being held include vigils for the uninsured, interfaith prayer breakfasts, and study groups to examine the issue.

“Central to the foundation and mission of the African Methodist Episcopal church is service to the needy,” said Bishop E. Earl McCloud Jr., Ecumenical Officer of the African Methodist Episcopal Church. “We can no longer accept that millions of our fellow Americans cannot afford the health care that they require. It is dehumanizing and unjust, and they need our help. The time has come for us to call upon our nation's leaders to make health care coverage for all Americans a top priority.”

According to the most recent figures available from the U.S. Census Bureau, nearly 46 million Americans – including more than 8 million children – have no health care coverage. Institute of Medicine figures suggest that, on average, nearly 50 people die each day because they are uninsured and cannot get the medical care they need.

"There are certain issues in our nation's history that call people of faith to come together to urge action, and the issue of health coverage for all Americans is one of them," said Rev. Eileen Lindner, chairperson of the National Interfaith Advisory Board for Cover the Uninsured Week, and deputy general secretary of research and planning, National Council of Churches. "While our theological and social perspectives on many issues differ, people of faith agree that ensuring all people have access to health care coverage is a moral imperative. It is our duty to urge our nation to take action on behalf of the millions of Americans who do not have health care coverage."

The faith leaders involved in the Week say they are frustrated that addressing the issue of expanding health care coverage is not a national priority. While Cover the Uninsured Week does not endorse any specific legislative or policy solution to the problem of the uninsured, faith leaders say they will continue to shine the spotlight on this important issue until our leaders discuss a wide range of potential solutions and take action.

Leaders of the African Methodist Episcopal Church and the National Council of Churches are serving on the Cover the Uninsured Week National Interfaith Advisory Board, which leads the Week’s interfaith activities. The Board also includes representatives from the Southern Baptist Convention, the Jewish Council for Public Affairs, the Islamic Society of North America, the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, the National Association of Diocesan Ecumenical Officers, the Salvation Army, the Commission on Social Action of Reform Judaism, the Church of God, and the United Methodist Church.

4. AT FAITH EVENTS BEING HELD NATIONWIDE, ATTENDEES ARE BEING URGED TO:

- Pledge their support by going to www.covertheuninsured.org to find steps they can take to make a difference.

- Pray for the uninsured by uniting as communities to ensure all Americans have health care coverage, allowing the gift of health to prosper.

- Explore the issue in their congregations by holding events that help the uninsured.

Interfaith and faith-based materials designed for the Week, including Christian, Jewish, and Muslim study guides, are available at www.CoverTheUninsured.org/faith. A listing of events planned around the nation can be found at www.CoverTheUninsured.org/states/.

5. CHECK OUT THE SCHOOLS WHERE YOU LIVE:

Interesting tool to find out how your local school rates in educating your student. Check out the Website appended below:

Click here: Click here: Schools, High School, Public Schools, School District, Public High Schools - SchoolMatters

6. ALLEN CHAPEL RELOCATION BRINGS OUT HOSTILITY:

It is amazing that we can read news articles that report, “The recent sale of the Westminster Presbyterian Church Building to Allen Chapel African Methodist Episcopal Church has caused quite a stir. The building is located in one of the nicer parts of old Rockford, a neighborhood long inhabited by some of the more affluent families of the city.” The article goes on to say, “The main problem is that the neighborhood residents are up in arms over the influx of African-American people who will be coming to their neighborhood not only on a weekly basis, but also on a daily basis for the many activities the people participate in.”

I can understand if the neighbors were upset over a bar or even a half-way house, but a church! Unbelieveable!

7. THE PASTOR’S CORNER: STANDING ON THE PROMISES OF GOD:

I have sought your face with all my heart; be gracious to me according to your promise. (Psalm 119: 58)

The psalmist reminds God of the third of God’s great promises found in Psalm 119 – God’s promise of provision. The first is God’s promise of integrity – God is who God says God is. The second is God’s promise of salvation – God sent God’s Son to pay our penalty for sin.

The psalmist tells God how he has sought God’s face (v. 58) and turned toward God’s statutes (v. 59) and as simply asks God to take care of him. Isn’t this our desire today? God, please take care of me, mine, your people? Paul reminds us (Philippians 4: 19) it is the will of the Father to do just that, “My God will meet all your needs according to His glorious riches in Christ Jesus.”
Jesus instructs us not to worry about the material needs God has already provided for in His natural order of creation. He tells us, who we are is more important than what we have (v. 25). We are more valuable to God than plants and animals and God cares for them (v. 26-30). Won’t He care for you? We are to focus on the things of God and He will meet our needs (v. 33). Seek His kingdom. Seek His righteousness. That is how we become who He created us to be and our needs are met. That glorifies God.

In God’s natural order of creation, He provides all that every living creature requires to fulfill God’s plan and purpose for its existence. It is important that each creature mature to God’ intended state. A bird isn’t fully a bird until it learns how to fly. A fish isn’t fully a fish unless it swims. As birds fly and fish swim they mature into what birds and fish are to be according to God’s plan. They are now equipped to receive from God’s created order what is provided for their well-being. God’s provision is accessible to those whose focus is on becoming who God intended us to be. As we become who God created us to be, His natural order of creation provides all that is required for our needs to be met.

GOD’S PROCESS OF PROVISION – Deuteronomy 28: 1-14
1. v. 1 – God’s commands are the manufacturer’s instructions on how to become who He created us to be.
2. v. 2 – We are then positioned for God’s natural order of provision for our lives.
3. v. 3 – God provides for us in all places we find ourselves.
4. v. 4a – God provides for our children.
5. v. 4b-5 – God prospers our business and commercial endeavors will be blessed (v. 8, 12-13).
6. v. 6 – Our travel is blessed.
7. v. 7 – We receive protection from enemies.
a. Protections from harm not hurt.
b. Circumstances or people may hurt us but not harm us.
8. v. 9 – He elevates us, not ourselves.

God’s provision is accessible to those whose focus is on becoming who God intended us to be. As we become who God created us to be, His natural order of creation provides all that is required for our needs to be met. Let’s seek His kingdom. Let’s seek His righteousness. Let’s glorify God in our lives.
Pastor Moody

8. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

Rev. Curtis L. Byrd, pastor of William`s Chapel A.M.E. Church Millington, TN, 13th Episcopal District, West TN Conference, North Memphis District and husband of Sis. Alice Byrd passed Tuesday, April 18, 2006.

Celebration of Life:
Saturday April 22, 2006
11: 00 A.M.
Greer Chapel A.M.E. Church
1480 Ash Street
Memphis, TN

Services entrusted to:
M.J. Edwards Funeral Home
1165 Airway Blvd
Memphis, TN 38114

Interment Tuesday, April 25, 2006
West TN State Veterans Cemetery
Forest Hill Irene Rd
Memphis, TN 38125
Rev. Dr. C. Robert Finch, Presiding Elder

All Condolences are to be sent to:
Mrs. Alice Byrd
2858 Whitney Avenue or P.O. Box 27732
Memphis, TN 38127
901-353-1103 (H)
901-487-3361 (C)

Submitted by,
Sis. WillieAnn Madison,
Pres. A.M.E. Min. Spouses, Widows and Widowers Alliance
Sis. Mary P. Daniels, Adv.

9. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

From: Angela Hawthorne Smith (7th Episcopal District, AMEC)

FINAL ARRANGEMENTS: Henri L. White

Henri L. White, the husband of Faith Danielle White, died Monday, April 17, 2006 from injuries sustained in an automobile accident. Henri was founder and CEO of Robes of Faith and Danielle Designs, two of the AME Church's vestment designers and suppliers.

Monday, April 24, 2006
Lay-In-State: 6:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.
Memorial Service: 7:00 p.m.
Ebenezer AME Church, Charleston, SC

Tuesday, April 25, 2006
Funeral Service: 11:00 a.m.
Ebenezer AME Church
44 Nassau Street
Charleston, SC 29403
(843) 723-4660
Rev. Dr. William Swinton, Jr., Pastor

Funeral Home:
J. Henry Stuhr, Inc.
Funerals, Chapels and Crematory
1494 Mathis Ferry Road
Mt. Pleasant, SC 29464
(843) 881-9293 - Phone
(843) 881-9439 - Fax
www.jhenrystruhr.com - Memorial Messages

In lieu of florals, please make donations to:
Henri L. White Memorial Scholarship Fund
295 Seven Farm Drive, Suite C-155
Daniel Island, SC 29492
(843) 216-8692 - Phone

The family may be reached at:
964 Etiwan Park
Daniel Island, SC 29492
(843) 216-8692 - Phone
(843) 216-1127 - Fax
wizrock10@aol.com – Email

10. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

From: Angela Hawthorne Smith (7th Episcopal District, AMEC)

Mrs. Ophelia R. Hyman, life member of WMS, died Sunday, April 16, 2006. Mrs. Hyman is the widow of the Late Retired Presiding Elder L. J. Hyman (Sumter District, 7th District, AMEC).

FUNERAL SERVICE:
Thursday, April 20, 2006 - 3:00 p.m.
Mill Branch AME Church
1917 North Old River Road
Pamplico, SC 29583
(843) 493-2261 - Phone
(843) 493-0981 - Fax
Rev. Merritt B. Graves, Pastor

Funeral Home:
Smith Funeral Home
307 South John Street
Florence, SC 29506
(843) 662-7192 - Phone
(843) 662-8020 - Fax

Family Visitation and/or Condolences to:
Family of the Late Mrs. Ophelia R. Hyman
124 Augusta Street
Olanta, SC 29114
Mr. Ronnie (Christie) Hyman - (843) 661-6096
Mr. Jack (Nancy) Hyman - (843) 396-4749
Please remember the family in your prayers.

11. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

From: The Ninth Episcopal District
Bishop T. Larry Kirkland

Reverend Bruce Lester Nix, Sr. went to be with the Lord on Wednesday, April 19, 2006. He served several churches in the Ninth Episcopal District. His latest appointment was in the Alabama Conference as Pastor of Ward Chapel A.M.E. Church in Prattville, AL.

Funeral Service:
Sunday, April 23, 2006 3 P.M.
Kiwanis Community Center
Hwy 55 South
Andalusia, AL 36420

Funeral Director:
Kirk's Funeral Home
501 MLK Jr. Expressway
Andalusia, AL 36420
C. L. Kirkpatrick, Director
Ph (334) 222-6156
Fax (334) 222-6086

Messages of comfort may be sent to:
Mrs. Renae L. Nix
1230 Lakeland Dr.
Andalusia, AL 36420


Please remember the family in your prayers

12. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

From: w.hanse@parliament.gov.na
Rev. Willem Simon Hanse
Subject: Passing of Ms. Priscilla Isaaks - 15th Episcopal District
(English notice)

This missive serves to inform you of the untimely death of Ms. Priscilla Isaaks, the daughter of the Rev. & Mrs. Hans Isaak, pastor of the Hendrik Witbooi Tabernacle AME Church, in the Namibia Annual Conference of the 15th Episcopal District under the leadership of Bishop Samuel L Green SR. She died in the early hours of Saturday, 15 April 2006 in the hospital in Windhoek.

Two Memorial Services will be held at the Isaak family residence in Okuryangava on Wednesday and Thursday, 19 + 20 April 2006 at 19h00, with the final Wake-keeping Memorial Service at the Isaak family residence in Okuryangava on Saturday, 22 April 2006 at 19h00.

The funeral will take place from the Hendrik Witbooi Tabernacle Ame Church (at A Shipena High School) on Saturday, 23 April 2006 under the leadership of the Rev. Dr. Andreas Biwa, the Presiding Elder of the Windhoek District. The Rev. Hans Isaak is reachable on +264 81 204 4239.

13. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE: 3
The Clergy Family bereavement notice below is a copy in the Nama language of the one posted above in English. Both notices were submitted by the Reverend Willem Simon Hanse. Nama and is spoken by about 90% of AME members in Namibia.

Tsî ta ga ?ob !goa!na-i !nâ !gû,
xawe ta tsu-i xare-e !ao tide,
sats tita kha hâ xui-ao.

?Na mîdi khab ge AME Kerkheba sao ra ?ob ?an?ansa ra ma!kharu.
21 Kurixa ?kham khoes, Priscilla Isaaks, !nasase !Gâunas ti gui go ?ansa is, ?Kha?kha-aob Hans Isaak tsî Pandies hâra di haka?î gôas ge Satertaxtsekam ?goa!aromas !Hoa?khaib di 15, 2006 ?î kuri ?aerob di ûib !hubaib diba homsi amo ûib kha, Ae?gams di ?Hanusi Ae?gâus !nâ !napetamase go !kho!khuni.

?Îs ra !goron ge ?îs ira, !nona (3) tare !gâsadi, gui (1) aore !gâsab, ?naosara, Woerman Brocks di sîsen?are-aon, hosan, aokhoen tsî !hub ?haba khami hâ ?ansabena.
Tsâba?hao !oabadi ge sao ra gaub ai nî hâ:
Wunstax, tsî Dondertax !oe (19-20 April) ?îs îra oms tawa, oms !gôas 409, Okasinni !ganni !nâ, Okuryangava ?an?guib !nâ. (Women Centres guse)

Fraitax!oes !nâ i ge !oaba-e a khai.
Satertax 22 !Hoa?khaib 2006 ge sorosa 18h00 nî !kho!oahe tsîs ge ?nû?khais di !oabasa 19h00 oms tawa nî tsoatsoa.
Sontax?goagas ge ?khos !oabasa om tawa 08h00 nî tsoatsoa tsî 09h00 3aeb ai A. Shipena gapiskoli di saali tawa nî !kharu!kharuhe. Ne !oabas ge Hendrik Witbooi Tabernakeli !khodanas !naga nî hâ.
!nasa !gasasib !aroma sao ra !gâode ?khami re:
Rev. Johannes Isaack : 081-204 4759
Juff. Anna Isaak : 081-232 6661
Thusnelda Isaacks : 081- 253 5857
Ne ?an?ans ge aokhoen ma-ams kha Valerie Isaaks xa go ma?gahe.

Submitted by the
Rev. Willem Simon Hanse
+264 81 122 5048

14. 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.

16. CONDOLENCES TO THE BEREAVED FROM THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER: 5
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