The Reverend Dr. Johnny Barbour, Jr., Publisher
The Reverend Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III, Editor
WE WISH YOU A BLESSED NEW YEAR!
1. EDITORIAL – THE WATCH MEETING NIGHT SERVICES HAS BEEN AN AME TRADITION:There is an account going around the Internet implies that the Watch Night Services in black communities is traced back to gatherings on December 31, 1862, also known as "Freedom's Eve" when blacks came together in churches and private homes all across the nation to await the news that the Emancipation Proclamation was going to become law and that black folks have gathered in churches annually on New Year's Eve ever since, praising God for bringing us safely through another year.
The story is heartwarming, but there is more to the story. And yes, today the Watch Night Service is held in a lot of black churches and the Emancipation piece is certainly factual and the service is a significant part of our black American heritage, but it didn't begin in 1862; it began many years prior to that date.
The Watch Night Service reportedly began with the Moravians in Germany and was picked up by John Wesley who incorporated the service in Methodism. The first Watch Night service in America was probably held at St. George Church in Philadelphia where Richard Allen was a member. To say that the Watch Meeting services began in the mid-1800 is a myth. It is certain that Richard Allen celebrated Watch Meeting night services at St. George Church.
Originally, Watch Night services were held to deepen the spiritual life of the Methodists and Wesley, himself explained in his Journal that watch Night services in England were generally held between 8:30 p.m. and 12:30 a.m. on the Friday nearest the full moon "so that participants walked safely home through moonlit streets." In 19th Century Philadelphia the Methodists continued the practice of watch-night services on New Year's Eve. The newly-formed AME Church members celebrated Watch Meeting Night services.
2. THE SEVENTH EPISCOPAL DISTRICT’S 2006 CENTRAL ANNUAL CONFERENCE:
From Monday October 9th to Friday October 13th the 7th District of the African Methodist Episcopal Church, which encompasses the entire state of South Carolina, convened in Orangeburg for its 2006 Central Annual Conference. This week long event was held at Butler Chapel AME Church located at 5225 North Road in Orangeburg, SC. The Central Conference is comprised of the Orangeburg, Manning and Wateree Districts, with 18 churches in Orangeburg, 23 in Manning and 22 in Wateree. This 83rd session makes it the youngest of six annual conferences.
The Seventh Episcopal District has been blessed by the visionary leadership of the spirit filled team of Bishop Preston Warren Williams II and Dr. Wilma Delores Webb-Williams. Together they have taken the great state of South Carolina to higher heights and deeper depths of spiritual growth and transformation, accomplished through the power of love and faith which stems from the heart of compassion. We express thanks and appreciation to our hosts, Butler Chapel AME Church and its gracious leader Rev. Dr. George E. Hicks, the officers and wonderful members for hosting the 2006 Central Annual Conference and for providing an exceedingly well organized environment. We also express appreciation and gratitude to our co-host, Williams Chapel AME Church, for its effective leader Rev. Dr. Juenarrl Keith, the officers and outstanding members for opening and closing this conference with a high level of efficiency and hospitality.
Saturday, October 7, the Central Conference held their “Youth Summit” with approximately 500 young people in attendance. The youth were engaged with many fun-filled and educational activities including a Tail Gate party sponsored by the Sons of Allen. All young people were invited to attend SC State University’s football game.
The pre-conference activities commenced with the Debs and Masters Celebration at Butler Chapel AME Church in Orangeburg, SC. The 11 Masters and 16 Debs looked marvelous as they were introduced and highlights of their academic and community service achievements were announced. The Allenites, Sub-Debs and Sub-Masters were equally dazzling as they performed their congratulatory tributes. The 2006 DMC Honoree was Mrs. Shirley G. Frederick who has served the Central Conference and the Seventh Episcopal District in various capacities for 9 years. Mrs. J. Felita Grady-Davis, Episcopal DMC Commissioner, recognized and praised all participants for a job well done!
Monday morning, the Women’s Missionary Society convened at Butler Chapel to conduct business. Delegates were elected to attend the 2008 Quadrennial which will be held in St. Louis, Missouri. The missionaries then held their annual luncheon at The Garden Room in Orangeburg, SC, during which a Sarah Allen Torchlighters Ceremony was held to recognize the following Torchlighters: Sister Minnie Jenkins, Sister Pauline Nelson and Sister Ruth Washington. Mrs. Bernice Sanders, WMS Episcopal Supervisor, awarded these lovely ladies their Torchlighter cape and certificates.
Monday evening, the Sons of Allen gave a soul stirring rendition of, “God Is!” These brothers lifted up their hands and voices from the theme, “Ministering Beyond the Walls.” They told us through song that God would heal the land, and the entire congregation was on their feet. The men then rendered a rousing rendition of, “I’m Going Home on the Morning Train,” as they prepared the way for the speaker, Dr. Andrew Hugine, President of South Carolina State University. Dr. Hugine’s topic was, “Ministering Beyond the Walls: The Responsibility of Men,” supported by Romans 12:4-8. Dr. Hugine encouraged our men to use their leadership abilities to address the needs of the disadvantaged, educate our children, and touch the lives of young black males.
The opening convocation took place on Tuesday morning at Williams Chapel AME Church. The Board of Examiners class on 3rd year studies led the morning devotion with power and anointing and the conference was then called to order and organized by the Right Reverend Preston Warren Williams II, presiding prelate of the Seventh Episcopal District and President of the Council of Bishops. Bishop Williams called for a recommendation for Conference Secretary, and Presiding Elder Robert B. Cooper recommended Rev. Rufus Gaymon, with Rev. Stanley Rivers to assist him. The following persons were elected as marshals: Rev. Dr. Albert Jones, Rev. Willie Brown, Sister Rosa Montgomery, Rev. P. Mixon, Rev. John G. Davis and Bro. Oger Guess. The Finance Committee and Judiciary Committees were formed, the Central Conference Trustees were elected and the boundaries of the conference were set for Butler Chapel and Williams Chapel AME Churches. Bishop Williams wanted both churches to know how important they were to the success of this annual conference. He applauded Rev. Dr. Keith and the Williams Chapel family for their willingness to share in co-hosting the Central Annual Conference, and stated that it takes more than one church to host an annual conference and make it successful.
The annual conference opening worship service was led by Host Presiding Elder Robert B. Cooper. The annual conference sermon was preached by Rev. Melvin Capers, pastor of historic Liberty Hill AME Church in Summerton, from the subject, “A Time to Celebrate” drawn from Psalm 126:3, “The Lord hath done great things for us wherefore we are glad.” Electricity was in the air and the crowd was on their feet as he told the capacity congregation that we must talk about how the Lord delivered us, share the joy we feel on the inside, and always remain happy in the Lord by keeping our eyes on Jesus. Rev. Capers closed under the anointing of the Holy Ghost stating, “I don’t know about tomorrow – but we can celebrate right now because we know who holds tomorrow and who holds our hand, and his name is Jesus!”
The afternoon session opened with devotion by pastors and the Wateree District, under the leadership of Elder Robert B. Cooper, read their reports and concluded with the victory song, “We Are Climbing Jacobs Ladder.” The Orangeburg District followed with their reports, opening by paying homage to the honor of their deceased Presiding Elder Willie J. Baxter.
Tuesday evening, the Women’s Missionary Society performed to the glory of God through the theme, “Fulfilling Our Mission: God’s Word, God’s Will, God’s Way.” This service was presided over by Sister Bessie Cleckly, Chairperson of the Commission on Christian Social Action. The Central Conference WMS Choir gave us a soul-stirring, hand clapping, foot stomping rendition of, “What If God Is Not Pleased With Our Praise?” The missionary service was graced with the presence of Mrs. Bernice Sanders, WMS Episcopal President, who commended Sister Katheleen Simmons for her hard work and dedication this past year as Central Conference Missionary President. She continued by thanking Sister Bessie Cleckly for carrying on the work of missions in the Central Conference after Sister Simmons’ relocation. Mrs. Sanders saluted the Central Conference WMS for a job well done!
Mrs. Abbiegail Hugine, First Lady of South Carolina State University, was the WMS speaker for the missionary Night in Mission service. She spoke from the subject, “Fulfilling Our Mission: God’s Word, God’s Will, God’s Way,” with a particular focus on education. After Mrs. Hugine’s dynamic message, the choir sang a powerful rendition of, “Order My Steps!” The Central Conference WMS was on their feet and everyone’s souls were on fire for Jesus! Sister Cleckly then made presentations to various individuals who have added to the WMS’ success in 2006.
Dr. Wilma D. Webb-Williams, WMS Episcopal Supervisor, greeted the missionaries with words of encouragement and wisdom, saying she felt no ways tired! She stated, “There is much to do and we can’t get weary in well doing!” Sister Bessie Cleckly, WMS Acting President, presented Bishop Williams with a check for $17,000 dollars for Allen University and $3,000 for Youth Corps Missions. Bishop Williams offered thanks and appreciation for the work the Central Conference WMS is doing and continues to do.
Wednesday morning began with a spirit filled devotion service led by members of the Board of Examiners classes. The Orangeburg District’s pastoral reports were read under the leadership of Acting Presiding Elder Rev. Dr. Juenarrl Keith. Dr. Keith received accolades from Bishop Williams and Rev. Rufus Gaymon on his exemplary leadership as the acting presiding elder of the Orangeburg District after the passing of Presiding Elder Willie Baxter. Bishop Williams then turned Sister. Attiya Giles loose on the congregation to take us to another spiritual level through her anointed singing of, “Order My Steps!” This song may become our Zion’s battle cry for the upcoming year!
Wednesday afternoon began with devotion by pastors and students from the Board of Examiners classes, and continued with the Manning District pastoral reports under the leadership of Elder Malachi Duncan. The spirit was high as we prepared for the noonday sermon. Our worship leader was Rev. Jacquelyn Hurston of the Wateree District with visiting pastors assisting. The service was preached by retired Bishop Richard Allen Hildebrand – one of Bishop Williams’ spiritual fathers. Bishop Hildebrand preached a powerful expository sermon taken from Psalm 27, “The Lord is my light and my salvation whom shall I fear?”
Wednesday evening, the Youth Witness Night opened in spectacular style as St. John AME Church blessed us with a spirit-filled dance routine. This high energy, breathtaking experience was presided over by Mr. Dontravian Frederick. The theme for this year’s conference was the acronym, “Krunk for Christ: Knowledge, Repentance, Understanding, New Covenant and Kingdom of God, For Christ.” The evening was outstanding and the talent exceptional as the young people performed, worshipped and praised to the glory of God!
Thursday morning began with devotion from pastors who were assisted by Board of Examiners students, under the anointing of the Holy Spirit as Rev. Ralph Brown let the Lord use him through a heart felt rendition of, “I Won’t Complain!” The session continued under the banner of “Christian Education” with Sister Kabrina Bass, Episcopal CED Administrator, highlighting the success of Youth Leadership as well as Christian Education in having gotten various teachers and superintendents certified.
Our first workshop was presented by Sister Lula Cleckly on “Infant Mortality.” She informed us that the two primary causes of premature deaths are significant pre-maturity and low birth weight, and offered us various preventive measures against infant mortality. The workshops continued with a presentation on Medicaid Part D, “The Missing Pieces to the Health Care Coverage Puzzle,” by Arnold Collins and Terry Davenport of the Perform RX health company. Mr. Collins explained Parts A, B, C, and D of the program and went into detail about the new Part D portion of Medicare (1-800-722-0013). Dr. Ila McFadden, Coordinator from the SC Dept. of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC), gave a presentation on pandemic flu. Dr. McFadden stressed the seriousness and probability that this flu will occur in this country and provided information on the necessary precautions, preventions and treatment for this devastating epidemic.
Thursday’s noonday service was presided over by Rev. Norvell Goff Sr., Pastor of Reid Chapel AME Church in Columbia, SC. We were graced by the Allen University choir which sang a powerful selection entitled, “A Change Has Come Over Me.” The congregation could barely contain themselves as praises broke out all over the sanctuary! Rev. Dr. Charles E. Young, President of Allen University, then stepped forward and electrified the conference as he preached from the subject, “Make a Decision to Live,” taken from 2 Kings 7:1-4. Rev. Young closed by exhorting us to stop worrying about our enemies, for we serve a God who sits high and looks low and God will make a way! After hearing such an inspiring message, the Central Conference answered Bishop Williams’ call to support Allen University by raising nearly $100,000 dollars. The annual conference series total for all six conferences equaled $400,000 dollars.
After lunch we began with devotion led by Rev. Ralph Brown of the Manning District along with Board of Examiners students. We continued with a Christian education workshop entitled, “The ISIS Project: Intimate Sessions for Informed Sexuality for Women,” presented by Sister A. Marie Goff, WMS Health Coordinator and First Lady of Reid Chapel AME Church. Sister Goff informed us that South Carolina is ranked 6th nationally for cervical cancer. She told us that cervical cancer is 100% preventable and encouraged us to pass the word. Simultaneously, the men attended a presentation on prostrate cancer by Dr. Willie Heggins II.
Thursday evening’s Lay Witness Night was presided over by Sister Mary F. Mack, President of the Wateree District under the theme, “He has shown us what is good and what does the Lord require of us, but to do good, love mercy and walk humbly with why God,” taken from Micah 6:8. Rev. Felix Jordan, Pastor of Heyward AME Church in Wateree, stood in the gap for the speaker who got lost, and preached from Psalm 121 from the subject, “Time to Look Up: To God be the Glory!”
Friday began with devotion from the Board of Examiners students. The ordination service followed and Rommie Williams and Bernard Richburg were elected for ordination as Itinerant Deacons. The worship leader, Rev. Stanley Rivers of Emmanuel AME Church in Orangeburg, paved the way for our preacher of the hour, senior Presiding Elder Alonzo Middleton, President of the Council of Elders. Elder Middleton proclaimed the word of God to the congregation in a powerful voice citing Numbers 18:19 and Matthews 18:19. He urged all students to read the 2004 Discipline, beginning on page 87 and study the rules of pastors on page 108 in order to know how to be a “tasteful” pastor. Elder Middleton, full of wisdom, closed by exhorting us to,” Stay on the battlefield for our Lord!” Communion was conducted by Rev. Seawright, candidate for the 2008 episcopacy, and Bishop Williams concluded the ordination service by singing, “His Eye is On the Sparrow.”
Rev. Helen Zeigler, Superintendent of the Church School, and the church school participants glorified God through a lesson entitled, “Prayer Makes the Difference,” referenced from 1 Samuel 7:3-13. A memorial service, presided over by Rev. Dr. John Washington, was also held to pay respect to Presiding Elder Willie James Baxter of the Orangeburg District and Rev. W. David Shepherd Jr., whom God called from labor to reward.
The 2006 Central South Carolina Annual Conference was graced with the presence of Bishops Frederick Calhoun James, Zedekiah Grady, Richard Allen Hildebrand and David Daniels, General Officer George F. Flowers, a host of presiding elders, visiting pastors and friends. The conference is thankful for the spiritual guidance and great love of our Episcopal leadership team, the Right Reverend Preston Warren Williams II and Dr. Wilma Delores Webb-Williams, for we are better equipped to move forward with renewed enthusiasm, revived spirits, invigorated minds and a deeper determination to carry out the missions to which God has called each of us. The Central Conference will never be the same, for our dynamic Episcopal leaders have made the clarion call for us to brave into the deep waters of commitment, dedication and servant hood, and we have responded triumphantly! We will no longer take a back seat or a back step, for we have come too far in the name of Jesus!
Elder Willie Baxter has been truly missed, and although he has gone on to claim his reward, we the Central Conference of South Carolina say once again, “Farewell Elder Baxter! We love you but God loves you best!”
Butler Chapel and Williams Chapel AME Churches, under the leadership of the Rev. Dr.’s George H. Hicks and Juennarl Keith, respectively, are to be commended again for the high level of attention and courtesy shown to the members of this conference. We are eternally grateful and appreciative for their warmth and hospitality as they worked in unison to make our stay in the great city of Orangeburg, SC a memorable experience!
3. EAST CONFERENCE ANNUAL LAY WITNESS WORSHIP SERVICE 2006:
“Laity Sowing Seeds Beyond the Walls: An Agenda of Ministry and Service”
Sister Angela Surcey Garner, 11th District’s Media Team
We celebrated a Spirit-filled “Service of Praise and Adoration” on Thursday night, October 26th, at Greater Bethel A.M.E. Church in Gainesville. The Reverend George Champion was the Host Pastor. Our gracious hosts were delightful and receptive throughout the Conference. The Worship Leader for the evening was our East Conference Lay President, Brother Joseph S. Coppock, Sr. of St. Paul A.M.E. Church in Jacksonville, Reverend Marvin C. Zanders, II, pastor. Many persons attended our Worship Service and we are always blessed by the presence of our Presiding Prelate, Bishop McKinley Young and his beautiful wife, Dr. Dorothy Jackson Young, our Episcopal Supervisor. The stage was set for a fabulous celebration.
Our devotion was beautiful as the Call to Worship was read by the President of the Alachua-Central District, Sister Phillis Filer and the Lay Hymn, our standard Hymn of Praise, was lined by Brother Freddie Matthews, Director of Lay Activities for the South Jacksonville District. The Reverend George Champion, Host Pastor of the East Conference, led a powerful Invocation of prayer and praise to God. We were blessed with the musical voices of the Mt. Olive A.M.E. Church Choir, Gainesville, The Reverend Hudson Williamson, Pastor, as they beautifully rendered the Anthem – a medley of “All Hail the Power” and “Oh Lord I Give You Praise.” After the scripture and Introit, our Lay Litany was led by Sister Jacqueline Bryant, Lay Assistant Recording Secretary of the East Conference. The Mt. Olive A.M.E. Church choir blessed us with a spiritual – “I Still Have Joy”, before the Host Lay President, Brother Aaron Jones, extended greetings to all of the Lay, our visitors and guests. We certainly felt welcomed at Greater Bethel in Gainesville. Mt. Olive’s Choir rocked the congregation with the gospel – “Holy Ghost Power!” Most of us were on our feet allowing the Holy Spirit to move through us in the Sanctuary. It was powerful testimony for the upcoming message.
Our Bishop, The Right Reverend McKinley Young, was introduced by the Presiding Elder of the Alachua-Central District, The Reverend Joseph Sanchez. After Bishop Young extended greetings to the 11th District’s Lay Organization, he recognized our Connectional President, Brother Jesse Burns and our Episcopal President, Sister Marian Bacon White, and thanked all who attended. Bishop Young introduced our messenger for the evening, Sister Peggy Rice Johnson, East Conference Director of Lay Activities, St. Andrew AME Church, Jacksonville Beach, The Reverend Oliver Simmons, pastor. He told us of their interactions and how he came to know her. He concluded his introduction by reminding us, “She is a truly gifted child of the King.”
Sister Peggy began with the protocol which she so eloquently renders each time she does it. After prayer, she read Revelation 1 describing each of the churches in that chapter. She asked the question, “What Church Do You Serve?” As she began her message, Sister Peggy also asked, “How do you serve?” She urged us to “go beyond the walls to give love.” Saying we must “stow love, show love and sow love, loving our brothers and sisters as we love ourselves.” She reminded us that the mission of the church is not to socialize but to evangelize. As Sister Peggy compared the churches in Revelation to our churches today, we were convicted by the similar actions of present day congregants. She told us, “Being in the family of Christ gives us opportunity for connection with the Holy Spirit.” She also reminded us, “The church is a site of cooperation – we should all work together, remembering discipleship, leadership, stewardship and fellowship.” She also encouraged clergy and lay to preach stewardship in addition to tithing. Sister Peggy concluded with these points: “God gives you a testimony – acknowledge Christ, believe in Him, every man will receive his reward; To walk in gentleness is to use the power God gave us; Help those who are downtrodden; Joy comes from trusting God – The joy of the Lord is our strength; Leave here challenged to go beyond the walls; we must live well to sow well using good, productive seed.” Sister Peggy Rice Johnson received a standing ovation for her powerful and very direct message. We were all blessed by it and surely gained knowledge and encouragement to truly “go beyond the walls” for service to God.
Our worship service concluded with very eloquent expressions and remarks by our leadership. Brother Joseph S. Coppock, Sr., East Conference President, Sister Marian Bacon White, 11th District Lay President, Brother Jesse L. Burns, Connectional Lay President, and our Bishop, The Right Reverend McKinley Young, thanked all for attending the Lay Witness. Bishop Young expressed his gratitude for all of the hard work the Lay Organization does and complimented Sister White on continuous jobs well done through our district branch. Our gracious hosts prepared a nice reception for our visiting guests and officers in the dining room. The night ended with fellowship throughout the congregation. We are prepared and more encouraged to “go beyond the walls” for ministry and service. There’s a place for you in the A.M.E. Church’s Lay Organization.
4. CLERGY OF THE WEEK: REV. DR. HARRY L. SEAWRIGHT AND UNION BETHEL AMEC RECEIVES 1.5 MILLION FOR UPCOMING COMMUNITY CENTER TO ENRICH THE LIVES OF FAMILIES:
Reverend Edrena Houston Brown, M.A.C.E., Christian Recorder, Staff Writer
The Reverend Dr. Harry L. Seawright a Visionary, preacher, pastor, author, administrator, scholar, builder and servant of God has completed another spiritual and successful year in ministry.
A native of Swansea, South Carolina he is the youngest of eight children of the late Mr. Joe Nathan and the late Mrs. Mary L. Seawright. He is the husband of Reverend Sherita Moon Seawright and the proud father of Shari Nicole and Harry Matthew and the grandfather of Cameron Isaiah.
A young innovated Pastor and outstanding leader in the community, of the Second Episcopal District and the Connectional A.M.E. Church, best describes Rev. Dr. Seawright among his many attributes. As a Faithful and seasoned Pastor, he has allowed God to prepare him from the grassroots of the Seventh Episcopal District and has journeyed from South Carolina to the Second Episcopal District where he presently served as Pastor of Union Bethel A.M.E. Church, Brandywine, Maryland under the leadership of The Illustrious Bishop Adam J. Richardson, Jr., Presiding Prelate.
When asked Pastor Seawright what are his views on enhancing the productivity of the Black Family, What can the church do to strengthen the ties of the Black Family as a connectional church? He stated; "We have been issued a $1.5 million in a bond bill from the State of Maryland to build an 80,784 square foot Union Bethel Community Recreation Center. Union Bethel plays a significant role in the black community. We have purchased over 55 acres of land, houses, apartment buildings, renovating an old drug store to house our second worship service location, daycare center, kindergarten and banquet facility." On the Connectional level, we can do the same type of things to provide the Black Family with the necessities of jobs, education, social, recreational, economical programs and activities to promote a sense of community for the Black Family. We will then have a 5-star ministry for a 5-star People of Evangelism, Empowerment, Education, Economics and Expansion.
Dr. Seawright is extremely involved in mentoring Black males at Union Bethel and the progress of that ministry is most productive. Dr. Seawright related that; "The mentoring of the Black Male has always been apart of my ministry. Gideon's Army - The Men's Ministry of Union Bethel has a very strong presence in the life of the church. They have a monthly men's fellowship and a yearly retreat. The Prison Ministry visits over 5 correctional facilities in the area and continues to give inmates and family members support. As you can see, there is a positive progression of the men's ministry of Union Bethel A.M.E. Church.
He is a spiritual Builder in building families and restoring the biblical principles in maintaining family ethics and morals as a motivator of people. A Builder of churches, community outreach offices and is involved highly in community development projects. Well respected among his colleagues and the State of Maryland Ministerial and citizens' advisory committee are excited and supportive of Rev. Dr. Seawright's in his upcoming candidacy for Episcopal Service as a Candidate for Episcopal Service for 2008.
Dr. Seawright accepted the call to ministry in 1976 and was admitted to the South Carolina Conference by Bishop Frank Madison Reid, II. He was ordained an Itinerant Elder by Bishop John Hurst Adams in April 1981 and has served over 30 years of extraordinary pastoral service to the African Methodist Episcopal Church and over 20 years at Union Bethel A.M.E. Church, Brandywine, Maryland.
When asked when did he receive he receive his calling by God to pursue a higher calling of ministry as a Bishop in the A.M.E. Church and what was it like? Pastor Seawright explained; "This has been the most amazing experience in my life. Early one Sunday morning I heard the voice of God, loud and clear, as He called me to Episcopal Service. It was Pentecostal Sunday! It was not my timing, but God's timing to over 30 years in ministry and 25 years as a pastor... I had to be obedient and accept God's calling on my life. As a child of sharecroppers, I stand on the shoulders of my parents... from Swansea, South Carolina. I am a fourth generational AME. I know today, the God I serve does not make any mistakes I gladly accept this call on my life. It's a wonderful feeling.
Rev. Dr. Seawright has three earned degrees, The Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration from Benedict College, Columbia, South Carolina, a Master of Divinity and a Doctorate of Ministry from Howard University, Washington, D.C. in equipping to better serve the People of God.
He is presently serving as the Treasurer, Washington Annual Conference, Treasurer of the Second Episcopal District of the A.M.E. Church, Member of the Board of Examiners of the Washington Annual Conference, Served as Chief Accountant in the A.M.E. Church Finance Department for 12 years under the leadership of the late Dr. Joseph C. McKinney and has served as a delegate to the General Conference since 1996. Instructor of Homiletics for the Washington Conference Board of Examiners and serves as the Chair of the Presiding Elder Goodwin Douglas' Salary and Upkeep Committee.
The author of three publications, he is a community leader and a member of many community and civic organizations.
Congratulations, Rev. Dr. Harry L. Seawright, or being nominated as "Clergy of the Week" as an outstanding and leading Pastor in the African Methodist Episcopal Church.
*If you are interested in nominating a clergy, layperson or Pk for clergy of the week, please submit your letter of request to; ebrown49@hotmail.com
*Rev. Edrena Houston Brown, M.A.C.E. is a staff writer for the Christian Recorder
5. OPPORTUNITIES FOR THE SUMMER OF 2007 IN SCOTLAND, INDIA, SOUTH AFRICA AND TAIWAN:
Memo for all members of the Churches Uniting in Christ, of which the AME Church is a member.
Our goal is to study the impact of globalization on the church and how the church is responding. We predominately do this through study tours that look at the local, regional and global issues of a nation in relation to the church.
We are currently offering four opportunities for the summer of 2007 in Scotland, India, South Africa and Taiwan. On the home page, click the button for Tours in Progress. Our programs in Dunblane with the Scottish Churches House and in India with the Ecumenical Christian Center look particularly good.
Information about The Institute for Global Church Studies (IGCS) can be found online at http://www.igcsstudytours.org/
The Rev. John Kenyon, Founder/Director
The Institute for Global Church Studies
PO Box 1024
Aguada, PR 00602
787-868-4556
Submitted by the Right Reverend E. Earl McCloud, Jr., Ecumenical Officer and Endorsing Agent for the AME Church
6. ST LUKE AME IN HARLEM RECOGNIZED FOR ITS WORK FOR THE COMMUNITY:
Click here or paste in your browser window:
http://wcbstv.com/video/?id=94849@wcbs.dayport.com
7. ARE YOU AT RISK FOR GLAUCOMA?:
You have a greater risk for glaucoma if you:
.. Have family members with glaucoma (a brother, sister, parent, or child)
.. Are ages 50 or older
.. Are very near-sighted
.. Use steroid medications
.. Have been told you have high eye pressure
.. Have had past eye injuries
Your race may also increase your risk!
African Americans are three times more likely to have glaucoma than Caucasians. But they are only half as likely to be treated for it. African Americans between ages 45 and 65 are up to seventeen times more likely to go blind from glaucoma than Caucasians in the same age group. Hispanics are also at a higher risk for glaucoma than Caucasians.
Here’s a simple test you can take to see if you are at risk for glaucoma.
My Glaucoma Risk
Circle only one score in each category. Add them up to find out your risk level.
Family History
My parent or child has glaucoma - 2
My brother or sister has glaucoma - 4
My parent and brother or sister has glaucoma - 4
There is no known glaucoma in my family - 0
Race
I am white/Caucasian - 0
I am Hispanic - 1
I am black/African American - 3
Age
I am younger than 40 years old - 0
I am 40 to 49 years old - 1
I am 50 to 59 years old - 2
I am age 60 or older - 3
Add the circled numbers from each category together. Put your total here: ___
If your score is 4 or more, you are at increased risk for glaucoma. You should get a glaucoma exam right away.
To see if you are eligible for a referral for a glaucoma eye exam, call the
Glaucoma Eye Care Program, 1-800-391-EYES (3937), open 24 hours a day, year-round
For more glaucoma information visit these websites:
The Glaucoma Research Foundation: http://www.glaucoma.org/
The Glaucoma Foundation: http://www.glaucomafoundation.org/
Medem: http://www.medem.com/
Submitted by Dr. Miriam Burnett
Author is EyeCare America who has given permission to use it in any modification.
8. THE AME CHURCHES ARE BUILDING A MODEL FOR FAMILY CAREGIVNG IN NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE:
* James E. Taylor, Ph.D.
It is well known that Black churches continue to be an important institution to the health and survival of Black people. Less is known about the nature and extent of A.M.E churches ministry to family caregivers in our congregations. When I speak of family caregivers I am discussing anyone who provides assistance to someone else who needs it to maintain an optimal level of independence. Put another way, a caregiver is a person who cares for someone who is ill, incapacitated, or disabled. Because families provide the majority of care, they are referred to as “family caregivers”. However, caregivers may be informal (non-professional, not hired) and formal (professional) persons. Informal caregivers probably have not been trained to administer care and may be a relative (family member) or friend to the person receiving care. Formal caregivers provide care in such places as the home, medical centers, nursing homes, hospices and the like.
Historically, African Americans face greater health problems and when they are blessed to have a long life, they may not have the financial resources to pay for needed health care. Instead of living in a nursing home or an assisted living residence, they often rely on family members or loved ones to care for them in their homes. Often, these caregivers are not well informed about available resources and how to locate services to help their ill family members.
In 2003 I received a grant from the University Faculty and Creative Activity Committee of MTSU to conduct a study entitled “Family Caregivng and Public Policy…An Exploratory Study” during the spring and summer of 2003. For the study interviewed several members of my church the Greater Bethel A.M.E. Church in Nashville, who expressed their interest in having their church, establish a family caregiving ministry in their church.
Three years later during the spring of 2006 I wrote a short proposal I presented to Bishop Vashti Murphy McKenzie, who because of her responsibilities as chief prelate for A.M.E. Churches in Tennessee and Kentucky approved my proposal to study how to best establish caregiving ministries in 14 churches in Nashville. MTSU has granted me a year sabbatical to work with the churches to develop a faith based caregiving model. My work officially begins on January 1, 2007. I want to develop a model for other A.M. E. Churches that want to start their own family caregiving ministries.
Searching for A.M.E. Churches with caregiving ministries
St. Andrew, Memphis, TN, where Dr. Kenneth Robinson, as pastor, has an excellent caregiving ministry, coordinated by Mrs. Imogene Stansbury. There may be other A.M.E. Churches with similar caregiving programs or activities. If you know of any A.M.E. family caregiving programs, please send me information about them as soon as possible.
* James E. Taylor, Ph.D is assistant professor at Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU), Murfreesboro, Tennessee, telephone 615-898-4059; email Address: jetaylor@mtsu.edu
9. THE SEVENTH EPISCOPAL DISTRICT’S 2006 PIEDMONT ANNUAL CONFERENCE:
From Monday October 2nd to Friday October 6th the 7th District of the African Methodist Episcopal Church, which encompasses the entire state of South Carolina, convened in Abbeville for its 2006 Piedmont Annual Conference. This week long event was held at St. James AME Church located at 205 Henry McNeil Turner Street in Abbeville, SC.
The Piedmont Conference is comprised of the Greenville and Abbeville-Greenwood Districts. This 96th session makes it the fourth oldest of six annual conferences.
At the close of last year’s 95th session of the Piedmont South Carolina Annual Conference held at Friendship AME Church in Clinton, SC, during the disciplinary questions Rev. Judy M. Richardson, pastor of historic St. James AME Church on Henry McNeal Turner Street in Abbeville, SC stood to invite the conference to be housed in the recently renovated sanctuary. The conference overwhelmingly voted to accept this gracious invitation and to once again return to a sacred location in our conference. 365 days later the conference converged on the grounds of St. James and the city of Abbeville to fellowship, learn and be renewed. Let history reflect that this is the first time in the history of the Piedmont Conference that a female pastor hosted an annual conference.
Our Bishop, the Rt. Rev. Preston Warren Williams II, the newly invested president of the AME Council of Bishops, instituted a new concept for the series of annual conferences – the “Youth Summit.” The goal of this summit is to under gird youth from ages 6 - 15 with fundamental Christian education under one roof. From September 29 to October 1, 2006, under the leadership of Rev. Charles R. Watkins, Piedmont Conference Christian Education Director, and Mrs. Margaret Wilson and Ms. Sarah Williams, presiding elder district CED Directors, more than 425 young people received instruction on the Pentateuch and the Bishops of the Church, among various other areas of study. Abbeville High School will never be the same because of the AME Youth Summit that took place there. Thank you to Bishop Williams and his Christian education staff for implementing an idea whose time had come.
Another pre-conference activity was the Debutante and Masters Ceremony held on Sunday, October 1st. Thanks to the assistance of Long Cane AME Church, where the DMC ceremony was held to accommodate the huge number of debutantes and masters and the mighty host who witnessed the ceremony. Bishop Williams made note of the fact that there were just as many masters as there were debutantes. We send our commendations to Mrs. Ella Gadsden Richburg, DMC Commissioner, and Rev. Charles R. Watkins, Co-commissioner.
Bishop Williams shared dialogue with the leaders of the city and county of Abbeville, including State Representative Paul Agnew. This helped to fulfill the bishop’s vision of the AME Church as a stronger and more viable entity in the community. The component leaders of the conference visited several service agencies in the area to assess the community’s needs and to offer assistance as directed by Bishop Williams and the annual conference.
On Monday, October 2nd, the Women’s Missionary Society held its annual meeting at Long Cane Church to receive reports from the officers and elect delegates and alternates to the upcoming Quadrennial Convention. Dressed in a sea of white, the missionaries conducted the business of the conference under the supervision of Dr. Wilma D. Webb-Williams, Episcopal Supervisor, and Ms. Vallery C. Smith, WMS Piedmont Conference President.
Monday night belonged to the men of the conference. The Sons of Allen worshipped at St. James Church with the Abbeville Greenwood District Sons of Allen Choir, the Mt. Zion All-Male Chorus, and the Poplar Springs Male Choir providing a tremendous ministry of music for this inspirational service. The highlight of this service was the preaching of the gospel by Rev. Arthur L. Raven, pastor of Jefferson Chapel AME Church in Anderson, SC. Rev. Raven preached from the subject, “Encouraging Yourself in the Lord,” from (I Samuel 30). We commend the SOA conference coordinator, Rev. Melton Aiken for the outstanding worship service.
Again Long Cane Church facilitated the Piedmont Conference’s capacity-crowds who were ready to hear the preachers answer the roll, worship during the annual opening convocation and hear the annual sermon on Tuesday morning, October 3rd. The combined choirs of St. James and Long Cane lifted the service to a higher spiritual dimension with their melodious voices. And just when we thought we could not get any higher, the Lord used the annual sermon preacher like never before. It is very rare that the annual sermon preacher gets to preach in the pulpit he or she preaches from all conference year long. Rev. Dr. Julius Melvin Johnson preached from Genesis 28: 1 - 16 on the subject, “When Heaven Touches Earth.” Many visitors attended the conference and supported the work of the conference with their generous giving.
Tuesday afternoon began the business sessions for the conference, which took place at our host church, St. James. At each business session, the president of the conference, Bishop Williams, gave sound advice, many pats on the back and very little rebuke. This 96th session of the Piedmont Conference saw a “teaching” Bishop Williams. No one will soon forget the Bishop’s lessons on tithing, which he seemed to emphasize during the pastor’s reports; nor his story of how the community assisted him with his marriage to Mother Williams, which highlighted how the laity can both teach the clergy and learn from the clergy; nor his admonition that no excuse was good enough to neglect the young people from the Youth Summit experience. Bishop Williams skillfully demonstrated the gifts that elevated him to the Episcopacy.
Tuesday night the WMS’s sea of white angels returned to St. James’ sanctuary to hold their annual “Night in Missions” celebration. This was no ordinary affair, because the featured speaker was the Supervisor of the Seventh Episcopal District WMS, Dr. Wilma Delores Webb-Williams. Dr. Williams’ message was taken from the theme, “Recharging to Fulfill Mission Paths of Christ, Church and Community.” Dr. Williams told the conference that recharging one’s self was necessary and that we must never give up the ongoing mission journey. The choir angels, also known as the WMS Choir, sang to the glory of God. Again, Sister Vallery Smith championed another stellar worship service.
Wednesday’s noonday service was a high time in the name of the Lord because a son of the soil, Rev. Dr. James F. Miller, pastor of DuPage AME Church, in the suburbs of Chicago, IL, whose late father was born and raised approximately 13 miles from St. James in Cokesbury, SC, preached a mighty word. He reminded us not to lose Jesus. Again, many visitors graced the conference with their presence.
Just before the Wednesday dinner break, Bishop Williams summoned the people of the Piedmont to respond to the clarion call to support our beloved Allen University. The conference responded in part because of our historic partnership with Allen. Allen was begun in Cokesbury, SC in 1870 and moved to Columbia some years later. Let it be known to all that although the Piedmont is small, we believe in supporting the causes of the church and our school. Between Wednesday and Thursday afternoon’s call, this small conference raised more than $67,000 dollars for Allen University. According to Bishop Williams, the Piedmont comes in 2nd for annual conference funds raised for Allen thus far.
Wednesday night was reserved for the youth of the conference. Their service placed emphasis on Jesus, hearing Him, growing in His likeness and following His lead. An awesome array and display of the talented youth included the conference YPD choir, a step team, and our youth telling us “Deal” or “No Deal” when it comes to life situations and our Sunbeam and Allen Stars displaying what it really means to be a Christian. High commendations are extended to Sister Misty Nance Gause, YPD Director, and Bro. Bric Williams, YPD President, for leading our young people in the green and white agenda.
Thursday, the annual conference series is devoted to Christian Education. To that end, the conference participated in workshops focused on the purpose of the church, cervical cancer for females and prostate cancer for males. To add to the day, Rev. Dr. Charles E. Young, President of Allen University, and the AU Choir visited the conference. The choir sang great spirituals, arrangements to hymns and a moving gospel selection. Dr. Young preached a powerful word from Mark 2, “Faith in the Face of Jesus.” The conference was clearly blessed by the preaching and moved by the singing.
On Thursday afternoon the Ministers’ Spouses, adorned in black, red and green, held their annual luncheon at the Dutch Oven in Abbeville Square and reelected Sister Barbara Jones as its president to serve another conference year.
Thursday nights are dedicated to the organized laity of the conference. The conference Lay Organization sought the speaking skills Mrs. Marie Hamburg Artis, a daughter of the Piedmont conference, a native of Kings Chapel AME Church in Pendleton, SC and a present member of Williams Chapel AME Church in Orangeburg, SC. Mrs. Artis’ timely and forthright message on “The Sower” was well delivered and well received. Music was rendered by the Flat Rock and Cypress Chapel AME Churches, both in Abbeville. We commend conference Lay President, Mrs. Pearlena Morton for an outstanding service.
Friday’s noonday service was powerfully preached by Rev. Rhudene Toomer, pastor of Elisha AME Church in Silverstreet, SC, referencing Revelations 3: 14 – 22 and from the subject, “What Type of Church Are We?”
The closing service for this 96th Session of the Piedmont Annual Conference was held at Long Cane AME Church, and our Bishop sought the preaching abilities of one of his sons in the ministry, Rev. Mark Pierson, Pastor of Bethel AME Church in Augusta, GA; a church where our Bishop previously pastored. Rev. Pierson powerfully preached from the subject, “A Composite of the Church,” utilizing the scriptural text of Acts 6:2.
The 96th Session of the Piedmont Annual Conference will undoubtedly go down in history as the best conference to date. The fellowship was connecting, the worship was magnetizing, the teaching was edifying and the spirit was elevating!
The host pastors, Rev. Judy and Rev. Cornell Richardson, and the congregation of St. James AME Church are to be commended and profusely thanked for their excellent hosting during this entire week. At every turn, no need went denied. St. James was genuine, warm and accommodating. We must also recognize the assistance of Rev. Dr. and Mrs. Julius M. Johnson and the Long Cane AME Church family for opening their doors to us and making our stay in the city of Abbeville a comfortable one. We bless God for both pastors and both churches and rise to offer you applause for a job well done.
We thank the presiding elders, pastor and people of the Piedmont Conference, including the component groups and leaders, for making this conference a most inspirational one. Without the people of the conference, there would be no Piedmont Annual Conference. We offer to our conference leaders a rising vote of thanks!
We sincerely appreciate the leadership and guidance of the president of this annual conference, the Right Reverend Preston Warren Williams II and the Episcopal Supervisor, Dr. Wilma Delores Webb-Williams. Our Episcopal leadership team has positioned this conference to be a bright shining star within the Seventh Episcopal District of the African Methodist Episcopal Church. Bishop William’s “outside-of-the-box” thinking, his teaching, his love and his concern for the church and all of the people of God is evident in the way he has conducted the affairs of this conference. Dr. Williams’ gentle and nurturing demeanor encourages us all to do better, to be better and to serve better. We are extremely fortunate and blessed to be led by two people whom God has sent to us. We offer them both a rising vote of thanks for all they are, all they have done, and all they continue to do.
10. “IT’S TIME FOR AN UPGRADE IN THE A.M.E. CHURCH”:
W. E. B. Dubois once stated that “the A.M.E. Church is the greatest Negro institution in the world.” This comment by Dubois was made during the early 1900’s when Bishops such as Turner, Payne, and Quinn had been constantly speaking out against the injustices that were being perpetuated against black people. The A.M.E. Church does indeed have a rich history and legacy.
As I have been observing the debates online pertaining to whether the terms “senior pastor” or “minister” should be used in our church, my mind recalls an Annual Conference after my ordination as an Itinerant Deacon. Bishop John Hurst Adams made the comment, “that all persons within the board of examiners should be called brothers and sisters until ordination as a deacon.” In many instances I believe that many of pastors are attempting to become so contemporary that we are neglecting to consult The Discipline for direction. The structure that was put into place by Bishop Richard Allen is very valuable and I believe it can still work today. However, as a young theologian I do believe that as we periodically upgrade our computer systems we need to also upgrade some of our methodologies in the AME Church.
It is clear that many pastors are not speaking to the issues of our day. For me it is a pity and shame when our pastors exert more energy for a one week annual conference than they do for fifty one weeks of ministry. By observing some annual conferences it appears that some pastors strive so hard to be the “big fish” for one week that they are even willing to use political schemes to implement fear to exhibit who the lead pastor is. And in many instances when you hear that a pastor’s report on conversion and accessions; they have not added anything to the growth of the local or connectional church besides their budget. At this point you will then hear comments such as numbers are not important which is absurd to me. If numbers are not important then why would the book of Acts go through all that trouble to mention the exact number that had been saved by Peter on Pentecost? It is time for us to change our methods in the AME Church from being so political to being more productive. Martin L. King, Jr. stated that, “Jesus gave him the message, but Gandhi gave him the method” to addressing the issues of the 60’s.
We must realize that we still preach and teach Jesus but our methods do not have to stay the same. The changing of our methods does not neglect the message of the cross. We are no longer fighting for a seat on the bus or a seat at the lunch counter because in many areas, we own both.
We are now dealing with sexism, classism, and racism, even among our own race. In order to deal with these present-day issues the preaching moment has to be relevant with proper exegesis in order to spread the message of Christ. “Ain’t he alright,” won’t he do it, and “Say yes,” without substance, will not do it anymore. We must realize that whooping and hollering without sound exegesis is simply "jackleg preaching."
Allow me to be clear, I love "whooping" and I do it only after I have delivered a solid word. My father in the ministry, Bishop Samuel L. Green Sr. is one that demonstrates every time he preaches that "whooping" still works and can save souls but it has to be done with biblical support and that is why he made me go to school so that I would rightly divide the word of God. If some of us put as much time in sermon preparation as we do in attempting to destroy other pastors' ministry, gossiping, and politicking for a title then our church’s can’t help but to grow.
In the past six months, over sixty new persons have joined Grater Jordan Chapel AME Church. I am not boasting on anything great that I have done. But I am boasting on the power of the Holy Ghost and relevant preaching. Greater Jordan Chapel is located 15 mile east of Macon, Georgia, in an area that has been referred to as, rural. This ministry stands as a testimony that you do not have to be positioned in a major city to experience phenomenal growth. But just as people will travel for a good meal they will do the same for a good worship experience and church home. The sixty persons who have joined were not AMEs. They are professionals, factory workers, drug dealers and users. They all say they came to the church because of good worship and solid preaching. By the way the worship style at Greater Jordan Chapel is not traditional. On Sunday, December 17, 2006, the sermon was entitled, “From the Ghetto to the Palace.” The sermon dealt with Jesus questionable birth, hometown, and poverty issues (foxes have holes). The introduction of the message consisted of a crash course on psychology with Sigmund Freud’s model of the Id, Super ego, and Ego. I focused on Freud’s super ego model which stresses that we are all products of our environment. To argue against that notion, I used Will Smith’s new movie. “The Pursuit of Happyness,” along with Jesus story. Because the message was so relevant, seven people joined the church, five of whom are candidates for baptism, but more importantly all who were assembled now believe that regardless of their genesis, their lives can still turn out to be very productive.
It’ Time for an upgrade in our church not because the system has failed, but because we want to remain relevant and productive.
Please take the time to see what God has done for Greater Jordan Chapel by visiting our web site at http://www.greaterjordanchapelame.org/
Ronald L. Slaughter
Pastor, Greater Jordan Chapel A.M.E. Church
Haddock, Georgia
E-Mail- ronaldslaughter@hotmail.com
11. CLERGY FAMILY CONGRATULATORY NOTICE:
Congratulations are extended to Mr. Andrew Cousin, the proud son of Presiding Elder Steven A. Cousin, Presiding Elder of the Kansas City District of the Kansas/Nebraska Annual Conference of the 5th Episcopal District and Mrs. Sybil Henderson of Bristol, Pennsylvania.
Mr. Cousin, graduated with honors on Saturday, December 16, 2006 earning the Bachelor's degree from the University of Pennsylvania.
He is the step-son of Mrs. Linda Childress-Cousin and Mr. Lorenzo Henderson and the grandson of Senior Bishop, The Right Reverend Phillip Robert Cousin, Sr. and Episcopal Supervisor, Dr. M. Joan Cousin of the 4th Episcopal District of the A.M.E. Church.
Congratulatory messages may be emailed to:
Presiding Elder Steven Cousin: eldersteve@kc.rr.com
Or Bro. Steven A. Cousin, Jr. sacousin@gmail.com
Or Dr. M. Joan Cousin, grandmother: mjoancousin@aol.com
Congratulations from your family, friends and your classmates.
Submitted by the Reverend Edrena Houston Brown
12. CLERGY FAMILY CONGRATULATORY NOTICE:
On Saturday, December 9, 2006 Alex Randolph Harper, son of Rev. Gilbert Harper, Sr., Pastor of Mt. Zion A.M.E. Church, Roanoke, Virginia, graduated from Averett University in Danville, Virginia with a major in Global Marketing with a Management Concentration.
Congratulatory messages may be emailed to: Revgharp2@cs.com
13. CLERGY FAMILY CONGRATULATORY NOTICE:
Rev. W. T. Washington, who has completed 52 years of service as a pastor in the African Methodist Episcopal Church, serving in the 12th Episcopal District is retiring from the pastorate. The East Northeast Conference is having a Congratulatory Booklet prepared and program for him on January 6, 2007 at New Bethel A. M. E. Church in Stuttgart, Arkansas.
Congratulatory messages may be emailed to Mrs. Piccola Washington, President 12th Episcopal District M-SWAWO: washingtor@sbcglobal.net (his spouse)
14. EPISCOPAL FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
We are sad to announce the death of Dr. Mae Kendall, the sister-in-law of Bishop Gregory and Rev. Jessica Ingram. Dr. Kendall was married to Charles Kendall, the brother of the Rev. Dr. Jessica Ingram. Dr. Kendall died on Thursday evening, December 21, 2006, one day before her birthday.
Dr. Kendall was a member of First Congregation UCC Church in Atlanta, Ga. Dr. Kendall was a well known educator and a retired Professor of Clark College. She is the author of the autobiography of the Paschal Brothers.
The Memorial Service will be held:
Wednesday, December 27, 2006
11 a.m.
Big Bethel A.M.E. Church
206 Auburn Ave NE
Atlanta, Ga. 30303
The Rev. Gregory Eason, Senior Pastor
The Rev. Dwight Andrews, Officiating
Professional Services are entrusted to:
Carl M. Williams Funeral Home
492 Larkin St. SW
Atlanta, Ga. 30313-1208
404.522.8454
Condolences and expressions of sympathy may be sent to her husband, Charles Kendall (the brother of Rev. Jessica)
2626 Lisa Dr. SW
Atlanta, Ga. 30311
Home Telephone: 404.969.7469
Or to:
The Right Reverend G. M. Ingram
Rev. Dr. Jessica Kendall Ingram
4927 Holly Tree Drive
Dallas, TX. 75287
Cell Numbers:
Rev. Jessica: 313.806.8180
Bishop Gregory: 248.752.6559
Email: Journeyministry@aol.com
We ask that you lift Charles Kendall in your prayers. He is recovering from heart surgery and is presently on dialysis
15. GENERAL OFFICER FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
We announce the passing of Mrs. Antoinne Moore, the niece of Dr. Johnny Barbour, Secretary-Treasurer Sunday School Union.
A Memorial Service will be held in memory of Mrs. Antoinne Moore:
Wednesday, December 27, 2006
1:00 p.m.
Peoples Funeral Home Inc.
886 N Farish St.
Jackson, Mississippi 39202 Phone: (601) 969-3040
Fax: (601) 355-4707
Condolences may be sent to:
Dr. and Mrs. Johnny Barbour, Jr.
185 Bristol Blvd.
Jackson, Mississippi 39204-3507
Telephone: (601) 506-0929
Email: amecinfo@edge.net
16. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
Mrs. Edwena L. Edwards went to be with the Lord on December 20, 2006. Mrs. Edwards was a former Connectional Officer, having served as Secretary and Historiographer/Statistician of the Women's Missionary Society. She was a Life Member of the WMS and active on all levels in the AME Church.
FUNERAL SERVICE:
Wednesday, December 27, 2006
1:00 P.M.
Allen Temple AME Church
917 22nd Street, North
Bessemer, AL 35020
Ph. 205-428-5961
Professional Services entrusted to:
Chambers Funeral Home
2527 9th Ave.
Bessemer, AL 35020
Ph. 205-425-5235
Expressions of sympathy may be sent c/o the family of Mrs. Edwena L. Edwards to the addresses above.
17. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
The Rev. W. C. Ervin Jr., father of the Rev. W. C. Ervin, III, Presiding Elder, Greater Dallas District, Tenth Episcopal District, African Methodist Episcopal Church passed away at 9:35 am this morning (December 24, 2006) at Georgetown Memorial Hospital, Georgetown, South Carolina. He was 91 years old.
Service arrangements:
Funeral Services
2: 00 pm
Saturday, December 30, 2006
Mt. Zion African Methodist Episcopal Church
Pastor: The Rev. McNeal Evans
8203 Thurgood Marshall Highway (Hwy 527)
Andrews, S.C. 29510
Phone: (843) 221-5530
Wake Services
6 pm-7 pm, Friday, December 29, 2006
Mc Knight Funeral Home
Director: the Rev. Walter J. Mc Knight
406 Ashland Street
Andrews, S.C. 29510
Phone: (843) 264-5655
Condolences may be sent to:
Presiding Elder and Rev. Betty Ervin
4347 S. Hampton Road, Suite #150
Dallas, Texas 75232
Office: (214) 333-7775
Fax: (214) 333-7705
Cell: (843) 325-1638
or
Revwcerviniii@aol.com
Submitted by the Rev. Dr. Sherryl A. Matlock-Pastor
St. James A.M.E. Church, Denton, Texas
18. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
Richard Allen McFadden, the Uncle of Reverend Kyle "K. C." Gibson Senior Pastor of New Bethel AME in Vero Beach, Florida passed away on December 20, 2006. He was the son of the Late Reverend Nathaniel McFadden of the 11th Episcopal District, a 34 year employee of the Polk County School Board and a life long AME. He leaves behind a sister Joan McFadden Gibson, a brother Steven McFadden Cooper and a host of other friends and family. Mr. McFadden was a member of New Bethel AME in Lakeland Florida, Rev. Pearce Ewing, pastor.
Service arrangements:
Funeral:
Friday, December 29, 2006
11:00 a.m.
New Bethel AME Church
2122 Martin Luther King Jr. Ave
Lakeland, Florida
Phone: (863) 687-1995
Professional services entrusted to:
H. W. Oldham Funeral Home1537 Kettles AvenueLakeland, FL 33805-3633
Phone: (863) 683-2419Fax: (863) 688-0200
Contact Information for expressing sympathy:
Rev. Kyle Gibson
Phone (772) 643-5777
Email: KC2020Vision@aol.com
Submitted By:
Rev. Edrena Houston Brown
Christian Recorder, Staff Writer
19. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
The passing of Brittany Kiera Boone, the daughter of Rev. and Mrs. Tony Boone, Pastor and First Lady of New Covenant A.M.E. Church, Charlotte, N.C.
Service Arrangements:
Funeral
Friday, December 29, 2006
11:00 A.M.
Wake 10:00 A.M.
Ebenezer A.M.E. Church
7707 Allentown Road Ft. Washington, MD 20744 Phone: (301) 248-8833
Dr. Grainger Browning, Pastor
Expressions of sympathy may be sent to:
Rev. and Mrs. Tony Boone
C/o Ebenezer A.M.E. Church
7707 Allentown Road Ft. Washington, MD 20744
20. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICES AND CONGRATULATORY 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.com
Phone: (615) 837-9736
Voice Mail: (615) 833-6936
Fax: (615) 833-3781
Cell: (615) 403-7751
21. 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.
