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. EDITORIAL - THE WORLD, OUR COMMUNITIES AND OUR LIVES IN TURMOIL, BUT BIBLICAL PREACHING IN COORDINATION WITH CONGREGATIONS READING THE ONE-YEAR BIBLE CAN PROVIDE US WITH A FIRM FOUNDATION:
Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III
There are so many things going on in the world today. We have been inundated with news about tainted spinach, beef and lettuce being recalled because of possible e-coli contamination. North Korea announced that it has detonated an underground nuclear device and Iran threatens to develop nuclear power. Other nations in the Pacific Rim might be tempted to follow North Korea’s example as a means of equalizing the nuclear balance of power.
The church is facing its challenges with sex scandals, fiscal irregularities, rumors, innuendos and challenges to the very fabric of the church; and this is happening in every denomination. There is a challenge of some Southern Baptist preachers to allow speaking in tongues (glossolalia) in Southern Baptist Churches. The Southern Baptist Church does not acknowledge speaking in tongues as a part of private or public prayer in worship.
As an aside, the African Methodist Episcopal Church also takes a firm position against glossolalia, at least in public prayer, as do most of the mainline denominations. In The 2004 Discipline, Doctrinal Affirmation of the African Methodist Episcopal Church, Section II, Articles of Religion, 15, it states, “Of speaking in the Congregation in Such a Tongue as the People Understand it is a thing plainly repugnant to the Word of God, and the custom of the primitive Church, to have public prayer in the Church, or to minister the Sacraments, in a tongue not understood by the people.”
Some denominations are having discussions about the infallibility of the scriptures. I don’t believe that we are fighting that battle in the AME Church. We AMEs believe the Bible, I am just not sure how many of us are regularly reading the Bible.
With all of the challenges facing us today, we need the Bible more than ever. The United States is fighting a war in Iraq and Afghanistan and in Iraq alone, we have lost over 2700 young men and women, and thousands have been severely wounded, not to mention the Iraqi deaths and wounded. People are losing jobs, families are struggling financially. Credit card debt is strapping the middle and lower classes. School dropout rates are not diminishing. Drugs and alcohol abuse is rampant. HIV/AIDS is on the increase in the in the Continental United States and in our overseas districts. Loss of jobs and wages is a reality. “Is there a Word from the LORD?”
The AMEC Sunday School Union under the leadership of Dr. Johnny Barbour in recognition of the 125th Anniversary of the AMEC Publishing House has declared 2006-2007, “The year of the Bible.” The AMEC Publishing House has published the Holy Bible. It is the New King James Version, Red-Letter Edition of the Thompson Chain Reference Bible. The AMEC bonded leather Bible comes in black and blue, and has comprehensive Bible helps with character studies, archaeological supplement, the Hebrew calendar, Concordance, and colored Bible maps. The Christian NoteTaker’s Journal, with pages to take notes or keep a daily journal is a part of the Bible purchase. It also has a One-Year Bible Reading Schedule. The AMEC Sunday School Union has provided a great pastors’ and serious Bible students’ resource. I hope the pastors, will at least, take advantage of this invaluable resource. Call (800) 648-8724.
I mention the Bible and The Christian NoteTaker’s Journal and the One-Year Bible Reading Schedule because it is a resource that can assist ministers and the AME Church. Preachers need to study, regularly read the Bible and spend more time in sermon preparation. I need it and I know if I need it, there are others who need it.
Some years ago when I was in the Army and being transferred from Fort Benning, Georgia to Alaska, all my professional books were packed and we began our 30-day vacation before heading to Alaska. I hadn’t planned to preach anywhere while I was on vacation, so I packed all of my books. I didn’t take any sermons with me, but I had one sermon in my Bible. I don’t know why it was there, but it was. It was entitled, “Are You AWOL?” I was invited to preach every Sunday between Fort Benning and Alaska and the preachers wouldn’t take my, “No” for an answer. The first Sunday I preached, “Are You AWOL?” and each Sunday after that, the same sermon. I am sure no other preacher has done that, but the sermon delivery got better each Sunday; at least I thought so. When we got to Alaska and I was scheduled to preach on the Sunday after I arrived, and before my professional books arrived, my daughter, Gloria asked, “Daddy, do we have to hear the AWOL sermon again?”
There have been other times when my sermon preparation seemed to run dry. It was a struggle to prepare sermons. Sermon preparation is hard and time-consuming, if it is done correctly. So often it is not done correctly. We, preachers, preach the same old texts and we address our “pet” themes and over time people become bored. We preach too long use the same clichés over and over again and the people know what we are going to say next. Jesus is the Rose of Sharon, the Bright and _____ _____” He is the Alpha and ______.´ “The Beginning and the ____________” He is a bridge over____ _____.” “When you are sick, He’s a _______ in the ________ and a lawyer in the _________.” And, we all could go on and on and on.
Some of us have used the Lectionary as a vehicle for bringing variety to our Sunday morning messages. We get ideas from other preachers and sometimes from events that happen in the world.
In this “Year of the Bible” implemented by Dr. Johnny Barbour, I would like to offer a recommendation and a challenge to preachers all over the Connection. Let’s accept the challenge from the AMEC Publisher and implement a “Year of the Bible” with our congregations. The AMEC Bible is a great resource, but there are other resources available. Some translations might be easier reading for some of our congregations. There is The One Year Chronological Bible (New Living Translation that goes from Genesis to Revelation). Other One-Year Bibles take daily passages from the Old Testament, the Psalter, a reading from the one of the Epistles, and a reading from the Gospels. A pastor could encourage his or her entire church to purchase and start on January 1, 2007 to read the Bible from cover to cover in one-year.
That’s part one. Part two would be a commitment on the part of the pastor or any invited guest preacher to preach the Sunday morning worship sermon from one of the passages from the current week’s One-Year Bible. I believe if the people bought into the One-Year Bible Reading program that the local church would see spiritual growth and increased attendance. Bible preaching and teaching grows churches! Variety of sermon texts and preaching biblical texts creatively can excite people and encourage them to tell their friends about their church and about their preacher. We need the Bible and we need to make it relevant for the members of our congregation and for those who sit in our pews.
And, one last thing, keep the sermon at about 20-minutes, or less. Very few folks are listening after 25 or thirty minutes.
3. CENTERING, CONTEMPLATIVE PRAYER:
Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III
Along with the Bible, prayer is a powerful component of our spiritual lives. Prayer has many forms and often the prayers that we share are pretty much the same. I read an article in our local newspaper, The Tennessean, this past Saturday entitled, “Centering Prayer quietly gaining practitioners” and it reminded me that contemplative prayer is powerful tool that I have used in the past. The article by Ray Waddle explained that the aim of centering prayer is to “sit still and learn God’s ‘first language,’ silence, and awaken a person to faith hope and love.”
Centering prayer involves sitting comfortably with eyes closed where you concentrate on a divine name of your choice, i.e., Jesus, God, Love, Faith, Waiting, Lord, etc., for about 15-20 minutes in a quiet place. Try to stay focused and to not be distracted. It takes practice and I wish that had continued to do it. I do it from time to time and I feel better afterwards.
4. DR. TERESA FRY BROWN BRINGS MESSAGE FOR 2006 WOMEN’S DAY:
(Los Angeles, CA) Rev. Dr. C. Dennis Williams, senior pastor of Ward African Methodist Episcopal Church, invites the community to hear the internationally recognized author and preacher, Rev. Dr. Teresa L. Fry Brown for the worship services concluding the 2006 Women’s Day Celebration. This dynamic and passionate proclaimer of the Word will preach at Ward African Methodist Episcopal Church on Sunday, October 15, 2006 at 7:45 AM and 11:00 AM. The church is located at 1177 West 25th Street (near Hoover and Adams) in Los Angeles.
Dr. Fry Brown, an Associate Professor of homiletics at the Candler School of Theology at Emory University in Atlanta, Georgia where her research interests include an emphasis in African American and womanist styles, womanist ethics, sociology, and history focusing on African American spiritual values. This itinerant elder is a product of the Fifth Episcopal District having begun her ministry at Shorter AME Church in Denver, Colorado. She is currently as Assistant Minister at Big Bethel AME Church in Atlanta, Georgia.
She give credit to two strong women - a forgiving grandmother and a mother keenly devoted to her calling as a minister of music - who modeled Christian living in her life and inspired her to “put feet on your prayers”. Dr. Fry Brown’s innate and keen oratory skills were enhanced as she pursued excellence in ministry by being awarded both the Bachelors of Science and Masters of Science degrees from Central Missouri State University, the Master of Divinity from Iliff School of Theology, and the Doctorate of Philosophy from Iliff School of Theology and the University of Denver. Her published works include articles in Those Preaching Women, Vol. 3, The Abingdon Women’s Preach Annual, and African American History Month: Daily Devotions. Her most recent publications are God Don’t Like Ugly: African-American Women Hand in on Spiritual Values and Weary Throats and New Songs: Black Women Proclaiming God’s Word.
The public is invited. For directions or more information call 213/ 747-1367.
The theme for the Celebration of Women: Women After God’s Own Heart: Having the Courage to be Obedient” is based on the collective scriptures of Joshua 1:9 and I John 3:21 – 22.
Other Women’s Day Celebration Events (All at Ward AME Church unless indicated below)
Spa Day – Obedience: Taking Care of God’s Temple, Saturday, Oct. 7, 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Sisters and Friends Brunch – Obedience: Fellowshipping in Love with One Another, Saturday, Oct 14, 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Worship – Obedience: Gathering Together in God’s Name, Sunday, Oct 15, 7:45 AM & 11:00 AM
Beginning in the home of a dedicated Christian couple – Mr. and Mrs. John Pryor - Ward African Methodist Episcopal Church (Ward AME) over 104 years has become one of the vital points of ministry in South Central Los Angeles, impacting the greater Los Angeles area, the nation and on the international front. Ward AME has taken leadership over the years in advocating for justice and equity, resolving problems (first church to open its doors to the homeless challenging city government to begin the cold weather shelter program, calling for adoption of Black children in foster care via “Room For One More”, providing home for the Free South Africa Movement, outreaching through prison ministry, ACTION in response to the devastation in Louisiana, Mississippi, Florida and Alabama with sending of three 18-wheelers of relief goods in response to Hurricane Katrina, and networking with various community partners to make a difference in the quality of life for all people
Ward African Methodist Episcopal Church is located at 1177 West Twenty-Fifth Street - Los Angeles, California 90007.
Telephone: 213/ 747-1367 – voice; 213/ 748-6251 – fax; 323/ 732-5284 – parsonage; and www.wardame.com – website
The Rev. Dr. C. Dennis Williams, Senior Pastor
Submitted by Jacquelyn Dupont-Walker
5. ASTRONAUT STEPHANIE WILSON GIVES AN ACCOUNT OF HER SPACE VOYAGE:
(Los Angeles, CA) Many of us in Los Angeles watched as NASA sent the first crew into outer space since Columbia exploded in 2003. This 11-day mission carried a crew of seven including the second African American female (Astronaut Mae Jemison traveled in 1992). Most Americans prayed for the crew’s safe return, however, here in Los Angeles special prayers were offered because one of the crew members was Stephanie Wilson, a young African American women who had lived, worked, and worshipped among us while working a the Jet Propulsion Lab in Pasadena.
Now, Ward AME Church is providing the community with an opportunity to greet Astronaut Stephanie Wilson and hear a firsthand account of her experience during which she marveled, “This world appeared to be peaceful”. During her reflections about the impact of her voyage upon her life, Stephanie has recommitted herself to, “help us to see the world as one” and that opportunity unfolds on Saturday, October 14 during the “Sisters and Friends Brunch” at Ward African Methodist Episcopal Church from 11 AM till 2 PM. The church is located at 1177 West 25th Street (near Hoover and Adams) in Los Angeles where Rev. Dr. C. Dennis Williams is the senior pastor.
Astronaut Stephanie Wilson will describe her view of the globe from outer space and give the audience an opportunity to experience a virtual voyage. When preparing for the mission, she said, “It’s a big dream. It’s exciting that it’s coming true.” Pastor Williams says, “I extend an invitation to every young person, especially young women who will be able to learn from one whose life has been focused on a goal, and hear how she overcame obstacles, diversions and disappointments but was not deterred from pursuing her dream of becoming what God called her to be - an astronaut.” Chairwoman Dawn Comer and Co-chairwoman Karen Peterkin excitedly say, “Stephanie Wilson was a member of this congregation who worked diligently and without fanfare. Her departure 10 years ago was the kind of send-off an African village gives for an aspiring heroine, and her homecoming will be the kind of welcome our Christian African Village (CAV) gives for a victorious journey.” “She is a model of sisterhood and thus makes the gathering of sister-friends something you will not want to miss”, adds Brenda Harvey Williams, chair of the Sisters and Friends Brunch. “Her quiet boldness, made known as she submitted the Black National Anthem – “Lift Ev’ry Voice and Sing” and “I Believe I Can Fly” sung by the Reedy Chapel AME Church choir to be played throughout the universe is her testimony and prayer in action,” concludes Women’s Day program chair, “Jackie” Dupont-Walker.
Parking is free. A small donation of five dollars is suggested. For more information, and to make reservations please contact 213/ 747-1367.
Beginning in the home of a dedicated Christian couple – Mr. and Mrs. John Pryor - Ward African Methodist Episcopal Church (Ward AME) over 104 years has become one of the vital points of ministry in South Central Los Angeles, impacting the greater Los Angeles area, the nation and on the international front. Ward AME has taken leadership over the years in advocating for justice and equity, resolving problems (first church to open its doors to the homeless challenging city government to begin the cold weather shelter program, calling for adoption of Black children in foster care via “Room For One More”, providing home for the Free South Africa Movement, outreaching through prison ministry, ACTION in response to the devastation in Louisiana, Mississippi, Florida and Alabama with sending of three 18-wheelers of relief goods in response to Hurricane Katrina, and networking with various community partners to make a difference in the quality of life for all people
Ward African Methodist Episcopal Church
1177 West Twenty-Fifth Street - Los Angeles, California 90007
213/ 747-1367 – voice 213/ 748-6251 – fax www.wardame.com – website
The Rev. Dr. C. Dennis Williams, Senior Pastor
Submitted by Jackie” Dupont-Walker, 213/ 494-9493
6. A POWERFUL LAY WITNESS CELEBRATION IN ORLANDO AT THE ANNUAL SESSION OF THE CENTRAL CONFERENCE:
By Sister Angela Surcey Garner, 11th District’s Media Team
Our Lay Witness Worship Celebration was held on Thursday night, September 14th at Mt. Olive A.M.E. Church, Orlando. The Reverend David W. Green is the host pastor. The members of Mt. Olive made us feel welcome and right at home. They made sure we had the best seats in the house. Our Worship Leader for the evening was Sister Francine Postell, Conference Director of Public Relations. The Sanctuary was almost filled to include the blessed presence of our Presiding Prelate, Bishop McKinley Young and his lovely wife, Dr. Dorothy Jackson Young, our Episcopal Supervisor. We were fired up for a fabulous Worship Celebration.
We always invite the presence of the Holy Spirit with our Call to Worship, Laymen’s Hymn, Invocation and Choral Response – “A Living Sanctuary.” The Voices of Praise of New Bethel A.M.E. Church in Orlando blessed us with the harmonious singing of “Come, Let Us Worship the Lord.” It was a beautiful and very appropriate selection. After our Scripture Lessons and Lay Litany, led by Sister Lother Cherry, 1st Vice President of the Conference Lay Organization, The Voices of Praise blessed us with a dynamic gospel selection, “They’ve Got the Word.” Most of the congregation stood to give praise to God for such a powerful and joyful selection.
Brother Tyrone Presley, Chairman of The Connectional Lay Economic Development Corporation (CLEDC), introduced our delightful Bishop, The Right Reverend McKinley Young, who graciously introduced our messenger for the evening. After the hymn of preparation, we were blessed with a spiritually powerful message from Sister Deborah Langston, 2nd Vice President of the Episcopal District’s Lay Organization. Sister Langston chose John 9:1-6 and John 12:31 to proclaim her message: “The Church’s Agenda, a Mission for Ministry and Service.” She encouraged and reminded us to make sure things are right on the inside before we attempt to go outside; stressing that God is of order, not confusion. We must witness through our lives and tell our story of what God has done in our lives. Sister Langston simply stated, “The church’s ministry is to call people to God.” In summary, we must work together, inside the church and outside, through ministry and service to God, allowing our lives and conversations to be testimonies to the goodness of God as we bring others to Jesus. Sister Langston’s message touched our hearts and blessed us, through her powerful, Holy Spirit led deliverance.
Our Worship Celebration ended with remarks from our leaders, beginning with the President of the Central Conference, Sister Ella Wilson, who thanked all of the participants and the team who made sure our celebration was a success. She asked persons from the visiting Conferences to stand and expressed her gratitude to everyone for coming. Sister Wilson then introduced our gracious and hard-working President of the 11th District’s Lay Organization, Sister Marian Bacon White, who spoke excitedly about how grand our Worship Service and message was, thanked everyone for attending and elaborated on how happy she was to see everyone from the visiting Conferences. We were blessed to have all Conference Presidents in attendance, with the exception of the Bahamas. Then, President White introduced our esteemed Bishop, The Right Reverend McKinley Young, who spoke briefly to the congregation and recognized several visitors by name, thanking us for traveling to Orlando. Bishop Young introduced his beautiful wife, Dr. Dorothy Jackson Young, our Episcopal Supervisor, who said hello and shared her lovely smile. He also thanked Sister Langston for such a spiritual message. We continue to thank God for our Episcopal Leaders whose sincere love, caring and prayers make our Lay Organization a powerful ministry for God.
After a little fellowship and food at the church, where we greeted our Episcopal Leaders and other congregants, the officers and out-of-town guests were invited by the Central Conference, to a special dinner at Ruby Tuesday’s in Orlando. We were graciously served good food and drinks by our attendants, as we dined and fellowshipped, sharing good conversation, joy and laughter. It was a fabulous night and the members of the Central Conference were wonderful. Thank you all for a special and glorious night. We look forward to sharing in next year’s annual celebration.
Sister Marian Bacon White
Episcopal Lay President
Bishop McKinley Young
Presiding Prelate 11th Episcopal District
Sister Ella Wilson
Central Lay President
7. THE REVISED 2006 - 2008 FIFTEENTH EPISCOPAL DISTRICT CALENDAR:
Board of Christian Education Congress
December 14 - 17, 2006
Bellville High School
De La Haye Road (off Old Paarl Road)
Bellville South, Cape Town
Global Development Council Meeting
February 6 – 7, 2007
Southern Sun Cape Sun Hotel
Cape Town, South Africa
Conference facilities
The cost to attend the 2007 GDC:
- R 295 per person- $55 USD per person
The cost includes mid-morning Tea-Mid afternoon Tea-Lunch-Seating in Venue
ALL delegates; observers and visitors MUST register for security and practical reasons
Accommodations: Hotel Shuttle service is available from and to the hotel
Executive rooms-R 1500 per night - single or sharing-$ 255 USD per night - single or sharing
Standard rooms R 950 per night – single-R 1,105 per night – sharing-$ 165 USD per night – single-$ 185 USD per night - sharing
Rates are inclusive of breakfast-Check in is from 14h00 and check out before 11h00-Dinner is in the regent of R 147 ($ 25 USD) per person
Phone: (021)-951 4230Fax: (021)-951 4371Email: accountant@15thdistrict.co.zaContact: Rev. Adam J. Carelse
Mid Year Convocation 2007
March 8-10, 2007
His People Church
1 J. Hattingh Street, N1 City Complex
Ash Wednesday
February 21, 2007
Palm Sunday
April 1, 2007
Good Friday
April 6, 2007
Easter 2007
April 8, 2007
Ascension Day
May 17, 2007
Pentecost Sunday
May 27, 2007
The Fifteenth Episcopal Residence Dedication
Dedicatory Service
June 6, 2007
7:00 PM
Bethel Memorial AMEC-Hazendal
Cape Town, SA
The Reverend Nigel Titus, Host Pastor
The Reverend Dr. Gordon van Stavel, Host Presiding Elder
Residence Dedication
June 7, 2007
11:00 AM
38 Everglen Manor
Dubanville
General Board/Council of Bishops
June 24 – 28, 2007
Columbus, Ohio
Connectional Lay Biennial Convention
July 11 – 15, 2007
Washington, D.C.
YPD/WMS Quadrennial Convention
July 14 – 24, 2007
Philadelphia, PA
Namibia Annual Conference
August 29, 2007 - WMS Annual Convention
August 30-September 2, 2007
St. Andrews AMEC
Windhoek, Namibia
The Reverend Betty Schröder, Host Pastor
The Reverend William Balie, Host Presiding Elder
Angola Annual Conference
September 5, 2007 – WMS Annual Convention
September 6 - 9, 2007
Peregrinos AMEC
Luanda, Angola
The Reverend Manuel E. Sarmento, Host Pastor
The Reverend Abilio A. Andrade, Host Presiding Elder
Queenstown /Eastern Cape Annual Conference
September 12, 2007 – WMS Annual Convention
September 13 – 16, 2007
Turner Memorial AMEC
Queenstown, SA
The Reverend P.T. Nkuzo, Host Pastor
The Reverend Samuel Mtshwelo, Host Presiding Elder
Kalahari Annual Conference
September 19, 2007 – WMS Annual Convention
September 20 – 23, 2007
St. Marys AMEC
Kimberley, SA
The Reverend T. J. Mogadile, Host Pastor
The Reverend Senkgwane J. Dithipe, Host Presiding Elder
Cape Annual Conference
September 26, 2007 – WMS Annual Convention
September 27 – 30, 2007
Bethel Memorial AMEC-Hazendal
Cape Town, SA
The Reverend Nigel Titus, Host Pastor
The Reverend Dr. Gordon van Stavel, Host Presiding Elder
Fifteenth District Planning Meeting
October 1 – 2, 2007
Bethel Memorial AMEC-Hazendal
Cape Town, SA
The Reverend Nigel Titus, Host Pastor
The Reverend Dr. Gordon van Stavel, Host Presiding Elder
Mid Year Convocation 2008
March 13 – 14, 2008
St Marys AMEC
Kimberley, SA
The Reverend T. J. Mogadile, Host Pastor
The Reverend Senkgwane J. Dithipe, Host Presiding Elder
March 15, 2008 – 15th District Delegation meeting at 9:00 a.m.
General Conference
July 4 - 11, 2008
St. Louis, Missouri
Namibia Annual Conference
August 27, 2008 - WMS Annual Convention
August 28-31, 2008
TBA
Angola Annual Conference
September 4, 2008 – WMS Annual Convention
September 5 - 7, 2008
TBA
Queenstown /Eastern Cape Annual Conference
September 10, 2008 – WMS Annual Convention
September 11 – 14, 2008
TBA
Kalahari Annual Conference
September 17, 2008 – WMS Annual Convention
September 18 – 21, 2008
TBA
Cape Annual Conference
October 1, 2008 – WMS Annual Convention
October 2 – 5, 2008
TBA
Fifteenth District Planning Meeting
October 6 – 7, 2008
TBA
Mid Year Convocation 2009
March 12 – 14, 2009
TBA
8. THE ALUMNI ASSOCIATION OF TURNER THEOLOGICAL SEMINARY
PRESIDENT’S MID-YEAR REPORT 2006:
The Right Reverend William Phillips DeVeaux, Sr., Chairman of the Board of Trustees, Turner Theological Seminary; The Reverend Doctor Daniel Wesley Jacobs, Sr., President/Dean of Turner Theological Seminary; and Chaplain Ammie Davis Miller, President of the Alumni Association
I am elated to have submitted my mid-year report to the Alumni Association of Turner Theological Seminary at the General Board and Council of Bishop Meeting in Charleston, South Carolina. The Executive Board of the Alumni Association has worked continuously to create and demonstrate a strong and unified alumni association.
Organization and Planning
The Executive Board and Standing Committees held the Annual Meeting, February 7, 2006 at the Franklin’s Auditorium on the campus of the Interdenominational Theological Seminary in Atlanta, Georgia. The meeting was well attended and the association review and adopted several proposal that would enhance the mission of the Alumni Association. The following items were adopted:
i. Turner Day: This initiative creates an opportunity for alumni across the connection to designate a Sunday (preferably January) to raise an offering prior to Founders’ Day. The funds raised will be presented during Founders’ Day—50 % for operating and 50 % for mortgage debt-retirement.
ii. Wall of Fame: This initiative is connected to the Fund Development Campaign. Individuals who donate at various levels name will be placed on the wall. The Wall of Fame will be located in Turner Theological Seminary the wall adjacent to the Turner Fellowship office.
iii. By-Laws and Constitutions: Reviewed the 1966 document and adopted 2006 Revision.
iv. Internship/Mentorship Program
v. Fund Development Campaign
vi. 2006-2007 Budget
President’s Project
Alumni Association of Turner Theological Seminary has partner with the AME Connectional Health Commission—“Body and Soul Program” as they create and facilitate opportunity for churches and pastors who desire to develop a Health Ministry or expand on an existing Health Ministry. The Commission is seeking:
Health Ministry
- A volunteer Host Church
- Grant proposal (anticipating financial support for host church)
- Health Ministries throughout the African Methodism.
- Partner with the Alumni Association of Turner Theological Seminary
Benefits
- Vehicle to create or expand a Health Ministry
- In-line with Quadrennial Theme: “Living Well”
- www.amechealth.org
Accomplishments
i. Fund Development Campaign committee presented $10,000.00 (Pledges) and $1,505.25 (Alumni Founders’ Day Offering) to Turner Theological Seminary from the Fund Development Campaign during the 112th Founders’ Day Convocation. Total Funds designated for mortgage debt-retirement--$11,505.25
ii. The House of Turner, the official newsletter for the Alumni Association, inaugural edition was distributed February 2006.
iii. Turner Theological Seminary Class of 2006 was officially welcome into the Alumni Association on April 27, 2006 during the Seniors’ Awards and Honors Banquet and the class received their graduation gifts on May 13, 2006.
iv. 112th Founders’ Day Events:
Welcome Reception ~ This reception was held at Paschals’ Restaurant. General Officers Dr. Johnny Barbour and Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III were our special guests.
Worship Service ~ The Reverend Leslie R. White, Pastor of Grant AME Church, Los Angeles, California was the preacher of the hour. There were fifty members and friends from California in attendance.
Workshops ~ The Reverend Ellis Washington “Can the Floppy-disk
Minister to the CD-ROM Generation” The Reverend Larry Hudson, “How to be Successful in the First Pastoral.
vi. Membership Cards were created to identify active membership of alumni/ae members who paid their dues. We are currently seeking other benefits to connect to the membership cards.
vii. The House of Turner Speaks is a forum created for the association to have opportunity to dialogue collectively about issues that directly affect the alumni, church and/or theological education with the alumni Bishops
viii. Souvenir Journal inaugural edition was available during the 2006 Founders’ Day Events. Rev. Dr. John Foster is the chair.
Regional Chapters Composition
Presiding Elder George Tyler, Regional Chapter Director
Purpose: To divide the Alumni Association into seven regions for personal contact with individuals of the association and receive updates of alumni achievements, promotions and activities through the regional chapter’s representatives. The Regional Chapters Director is appointed by the President of the Alumni Association and shall report to the 2nd Vice-President on a quarterly basis concerning the activities reported by the Regional Chapter Representative. The Regional Chapter Director shall appoint a State Director.
Composition of Regions:
I. Southeast Region -- The Southeast Region shall be comprised of the following states: Georgia, South Carolina, Florida, Texas, Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana, Arkansas Oklahoma and Bahamas.
II. Northeast Region -- The Northeast Region shall be comprised of the following states: Pennsylvania, New York, Delaware, Rhode Island, Connecticut, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Vermont, Maine, New Jersey, Maryland, Virginia, West Virginia, North Carolina, District of Columbus and Bermuda.
9. 1998 HAMPTON UNIVERSITY GRADUATE NAMED THE NATION’S TO TEACHER OF THE YEAR:
*Jeanette Johns
Kimberly Oliver of Silver Spring, MD was honored as the nation’s 2006 National Teacher of the Year by President George W. Bush on April 16. She is the 56th National Teacher of the Year – the sixth African American, and the first in her state to be awarded the title. She was selected from all the State Teachers of the Year by representatives of 14 national education organizations. This is considered the most prestigious of all awards for teachers.
Ms Oliver is a native of Wilmington, DE. She graduated from Hampton University with a Bachelor's Degree in English Arts in 1998 and earned a Master's Degree in Elementary Education from Wilmington College in 2000. She now teaches kindergarten at Broad Acres Elementary School in Silver Spring, MD where she began her career six years ago.
Two-thirds of the school’s students speak a language other than English at home and 90 percent qualify for free or reduced-fee meals. At Broad Acres, this outstanding teacher established several programs to improve the learning experience of students and the educational environment of her school. One popular event, “Books and Supper Night”, promotes literacy throughout the community by allowing families to check out books from the school’s library. Families are also given free books to take home.
During her tenure as National Teacher of the Year, which started in June, Ms Oliver will travel throughout the world as the spokesperson for the nation’s educators. Her responsibilities include giving more than 100 speeches to a variety of education, community and business organizations.
Reporter’s Note: I was privileged to hear this award-winning teacher speak on August 18, 2006 at the National Hampton Alumni Association Biennial Convention in Charlotte, NC.
*Jeanette Johns is the author of The Upward Journey, which can be purchased from the AMEC Sunday School Union. The Upward Journey shares the personal stories of Bishop Decatur Ward Nichols, revered clergyman of the African Methodist Episcopal Church
10. EPISCOPAL FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
Mr. Mitchell Peter Chappelle, Jr., of Washington, D.C., oldest brother of Bishop Richard Allen Chappelle, Sr., Presiding Bishop of the 12th Episcopal District A.M.E. Church (Mrs. Barbara J. Chappelle, Episcopal Supervisor), passed early Friday morning, October 6, 2006 in the Greater Washington, D.C. area.
Mr. Mitchell Peter Chappelle, Jr. is survived by his immediate family and their spouses: His son, Mitchell P. Chappelle, III of Pennsylvania, Mrs. Ophelia Hilton, Bethel A.M.E. Church, San Francisco, CA; Mrs. Mattie J. Campbell, Mt. Olive A.M.E. Church, Jacksonville, FL, and Joseph N. Chappelle, New York, NY.
Service arrangements for Mr. Mitchell Peter Chappelle, Jr. the oldest brother of Bishop Richard Allen Chappelle, Sr., Presiding Bishop of the 12th Episcopal District A.M.E. Church (Mother Barbara J. Chappelle, Episcopal Supervisor).
Tuesday, October 10, 2006
Family Visitation: 10:00 A.M.
Funeral: 11:00 A.M.
Metropolitan A.M.E. Church
1518 'M' Street NW
Washington, DC 20005
202-331-1426 (Phone)
202-331-0369 (Fax)
Dr. Ronald E. Braxton, Pastor
Professional services entrusted to:
J.B. Jenkins Funeral Home
7474 Landover Road
Landover, MD 20781
301-322-2300 (Phone)
301-773-5199 (Fax)
Expressions of sympathy may be sent to:
Mr. Mitchell P. Chappelle, III
1206 Factory Street
Carlisle, PA 17013
Mrs. Rosa Grayson
319 Baron Court
Ft. Washington, MD 20744
Bishop & Mother Richard A. Chappelle, Sr.
6514 Sherry Drive
Little Rock, AR 72204
RAChappelle@worldnet.att.net
Please remember the Chappelle family in your prayers.
11. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
From: cchambliss1@comcast.net
The passing of Mrs. Lorraine W. Dedrick, the sister of Vititia E. Greggs (the widow of the late Rev. William H. Greggs, Sr., - former pastor of Bethel AME Church, Fontana, CA).
Mrs. Dedrick was an active member of St. John A.M.E. Church for more than 40 years; Sunday School teacher, Stewardess, WMS and Mission Outreach.
Mrs. Dedrick is survived by six of her eight children: Sybil (Charles) Clark, Pine Bluff, AR., Arla J. Dunwood, Eldorado, AR, Marsha L. Byrd, Los Angeles CA, Muriel A. Thomas Plano, TX, Sharon (Larry) Ragland, Little Rock, AR, and Sergeant Ricky (Kelly) Bryant, Colorado Springs, CO and one brother Deacon Horaitus (Gloria) Williams North Little Rock, AR.
Professional services entrusted to:
P K Miller Mortuary
204 E 2nd AvenuePine Bluff, AR 71601-4431
Phone (870) 535-1012
Fax (870) 535-1309
Funeral Services:
Friday, October 13, 2006
12:00 Noon
St. John A. M. E. Church
1117 W. Pullen Street
Pine Bluff, AR 71601
Phone (870) 535-3760 Reverend W. R. Norful, Sr., Pastor
Expressions of sympathy may be sent to:
Mrs. Vititia E. Greggs
1405 W. 23rd Avenue
Pine Bluff, AR 71603
Phone (870) 540-1281
Email: vititiagreggs@sbcglobal.net
12. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
Mrs. Lula Frances Allen, the aunt of Mrs. Anita Brannon, 12th Episcopal District Office Manager, (Presiding Elder Eugene Brannon) and Mrs. Melanie Hillard (Jesse Hillard), and Mrs. Erma Jean Williams (Oliver Williams) passed on Thursday, October 5, 2006.
Funeral arrangements are pending.
Email condolences may be sent to: Amebrann512@aol.com (Mrs. Anita Brannon)
Please keep the Allen, Brannon Hillard, and Williams Families in your prayers.
13. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
We regret to inform you of the passing of Rev. Leroy Judge. Rev. Judge was a retired pastor from the New York Annual Conference. He served as pastor of St. John AME Church in Harlem, NY for 50 years. The following information has been provided regarding funeral arrangements.
Funeral Service - Sunday, October 8, 2006
Viewing – 3:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Service – 6:00 p.m.
Bethel AME Church
54-60 West 132nd Street
New York, NY 10037
Rev. Henry A. Belin, III, Pastor
Phone: 212-862-0100
Fax: 212-694-1323
Bishop Richard F. Norris, Eulogist
Funeral Service – Tuesday, October 10, 2006 @ 4:00 p.m.
Mill Branch AME Church
1917 North Old River Road
Pamplico, SC 29583
The Rev. Merritt Graves, Pastor
Phone: 843-493-2261
Fax: 843-493-0981
Bishop Richard Allen Hildebrand, Eulogist
Interment: Mill Branch AME Church Cemetery
Condolences may be sent to:
Mrs. Pearline Harris
Mill Branch AMEC, SC
Bethel AMEC, NY
See information above
Brooklyn NY 11203
(See information above)
14. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT ANNOUNCEMENTS PROVIDED BY:
The Clergy Family Information Center
Bishop Carolyn Tyler Guidry, Chair
Commission on Social Action Mrs. Ora L. Easley, Administrator
Email: Amespouses1@aol.comPhone: (615) 837-9736
Voice Mail: (615) 833-6936
Fax: (615) 833-3781
Cell: (615) 403-7751
15. 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
Archive of The Christian Recorder Online from 2004-2016; Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III, 20th Editor of The Christian Recorder
