THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER ONLINE ENGLISH EDITION (7/20/06)

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

1. THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER MAILING LIST, ALONG WITH THE BACKUP, HAS BEEN LOST:

A terrible thing has happened with The Christian Recorder Online Mailing List. The Data Base Server that hosts The Christian Recorder mailing list has been wiped out (the server and the backup list).

The Webmaster is trying to recover the data. At this point, we do not have a mailing list and that is the reason subscribers have not received an email copy of The Christian Recorder. The Christian Recorder is, and will continue to be, posted on www.the-christian-recorder.org . If the recovery effort is not successful, we will have to create a new mailing list and unfortunately subscribers will have to sign up again if they want to receive The Christian Recorder Online via email. Otherwise, individuals will have to access The Christian Recorder from the Website. I ask you disseminate this information. I am hopeful that this situation will be resolved.
And the more distressing thing for me is that, without the mailing list, we are unable to notify the subscribers of the problem.

2. WORDS FOR THE DAY (THE MORNING OF 7/17/06):

Shuttle's down safely. Welcome back, Stephanie, our A.M.E. Astronaut! There is nothing like a bunch of A.M.E. prayers.

Jeanette T. Johns

3. PRESS RELEASE FROM BISHOP CAROLYN TYLER GUIDRY:

From: Mrs. Cynthia Todd, Executive Assistant to the Reverend Dr. Frank M. Reid, III, pastor of Bethel AME Church, Baltimore, Maryland.

On Monday, July 17, 2006, Dr. Frank Madison Reid, III Pastor of Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church located at 1300 Druid Hill Avenue, Baltimore, Maryland under went open heart surgery. "We Praise God", the surgery was a success."

Dr. Reid is resting quietly.

Dr. Frank Madison Reid, Lady Marlaa and the Reid family are grateful for the many prayers offered to God on their behalf.

Get well wishes may be sent to:

Dr. Frank Madison Reid, III
Bethel AME Church1300 Druid Hill Avenue Baltimore, MD 21217
Telephone: 410-523-4273 PHONE

4. OFFICIAL STATEMENT FROM THE PRESIDENT OF THE COUNCIL OF BISHOPS:

Official Statement

North Charleston, S.C. – On Monday June 26, 2006, Bishop Preston Warren Williams II, the presiding Bishop of the Seventh Episcopal District, was invested as President of the AME Church’s global Council of Bishops. As one of his first duties as President, Bishop Williams has offered the following statement as a general agenda for the connectional AME Church in 2006-2007.

“As the first African American church to establish a separate denomination, to create an entrepreneur self-help enterprise, to forge a beach head in Africa and to build its own theological seminary, the African Methodist Episcopal Church has always stood at the fore front of liberation theology and remains faithfully committed to the core values upon which the institution was founded over two hundred years ago. Some of those fundamental principles are to feed the hungry, clothe the naked, and set free those who live within the confines of degradation, poverty and disease. Therefore, our local, national and global agenda will remain centered on assisting those communities who are most in need.

Yet, to achieve those ends, the AME Church will need a Post-Modern Theology to shape a new wisdom for this new millennium. We must re-examine the old text, for the current social and cultural transition will require a new context. This is the time to seize new opportunities and to envision bold and prophetic new visions and missions. For instance, the AME Church will seek to expand its global membership through outreach beyond our traditional growth strategy. God is not calling us merely to add land and buildings to our Zion, but more importantly to bring more souls to Christ. This evangelical work is needed not only throughout the continents of North and South America, Africa, Europe and the Caribbean, but in Brazil, Korea, Mexico, Cuba and the Middle East where people are experiencing an upsurge in religious fervor. AME Church growth must not only be about the mainstream, but also about going into the hedges, hamlets, homeless shelters and harlot havens to proclaim a gospel that saves and liberates.

The AME church will continue to promote family values, health care assistance, and an increased awareness of global warming. A keen eye will be kept on the continent of Africa, particularly the senseless suffering and death in the Sudan, as well as all other areas throughout the world where oppression and injustice have taken hold.

This year and always the AME Church is resolved to uphold its deepest value of family, freedom and faith.”

Bishop Preston Warren Williams II
President of the Council of Bishops

Submitted by:
Benjamin HarrisonPublic Relations Director
7th District AME Church
Tel 803.935.0500
Cell 803.528.7104HarrisonAMEMedia@aol.com

5. AME ITINERANT DEACON NAMED ASSOCIATE ACADEMIC DEAN AT CHRISTIAN THEOLOGICAL SEMINARY:

Indianapolis—The Reverend Paulette Sankofa, an ordained deacon with the St. Paul/Minneapolis District of the African Methodist Episcopal Church, joins Christian Theological Seminary as Associate Academic Dean and Director of the Doctor of Ministry Program.

Sankofa earned her doctorate of education in critical pedagogy in 2004 from the University of St. Thomas in Minneapolis. She also has a bachelor’s degree in psychology and a master’s in international relations from Webster University, as well as a master of divinity from Eden Theological Seminary.

She has served as a consultant on dismantling racism, diversity, inclusivity and cultural competency, and implemented the first national Womanist Convening in 2005, gathering Womanists from across the United States. While at CTS Sankofa hopes to continue her research project: The Sankofa Project Education and Fostering of Resilience in African American Adolescent Girls, which she started while serving as an assistant professor and scholar in residence for the Centers of Excellence at the College of St. Catherine in Minneapolis. Her other interests include looking at different forms of women’s theology and encouraging dialogue between different groups, and the theology of hip hop/post soul culture.

CTS is a fully accredited ecumenical seminary and is affiliated with the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). It offers eight graduate-level degree programs, including theology, ministry and counseling, with specializations in ministries that emphasize the arts and programs for life-long learning. More than 40 denominations are represented among faculty and students.

6. BISHOP RICHARD FRANKLIN NORRIS GIVES STRONG AND VIGOROUS LEADERSHIP DURING THE 190TH SESSION OF THE PHILADELPHIA ANNUAL CONFERENCE, MAY 2006:

The Rev. Wilfred D. Lewis

The Annual Conference in the African Methodist Episcopal Church is a time of accountability and the reporting of accomplishments by Presiding Elders and pastors. Presiding Elders give a comprehensive report for their districts, and pastors' report for their local churches.

Each pastoral report lifts up the challenges and opportunities confronted during the conference year. The reports include conversions, accessions, general budget payments, total subscriptions to periodicals, total monies brought to the conference, and total monies raised by each church during the conference year. Additionally, each pastor has an opportunity to share brief highlights of the work accomplished during the year.

The Presiding Prelate of an Annual Conference listens to all reports, and it is within his or her godly judgment to assign or re-assign pastors to pastoral charges at the conclusion of the Annual Conference.

The 190th session of the Philadelphia Annual Conference convened on Wednesday 17th May, 2006 at the fashionable Mt. Pisgah African Methodist Episcopal Church (AMEC), 41st and Springgarden Streets in Philadelphia. The Rev. Jay Broadnax served as the very affable host, and he and his staff saw that every requirement was in place.

The opening session was held at the spacious and commodious facility of First District Plaza, our Headquarters building at 38 and Markets Streets.

Bishop Richard Franklin Norris called the conference to order at 8 a.m. He presided over the roll call of clergy and delegates. The conference was officially organized and the boundaries of the annual conference were established. Bishop Norris is to be highly commended for his forthrightness, his skillfulness, his sagacity, and experience in ministry that he brought in presiding over the very complex matters of this conference. It was intimated that when the final history of the Bishops of the AMEC is written, Bishop Norris would be right next to Richard Allen, the founder of our Zion.

The worship service began at 10 a.m. The clergy processional was one of pomp and pageantry. Four Presiding Elder Districts processed with their individual flags and appropriate identifying insignia.

In succession the Philadelphia District, The South District, the Harrisburg District, and the West District processed into the worship hall.

The Host pastor, The Rev. Jay Broadnax led in the Call to Worship, and the traditional selection, "And Are We Yet Alive," was lined by the Rev. Calvin Jackson. The Faith Dance Ministry of Mt. Pisgah led by first lady, Mrs. Jay Broadnax, who performed a riveting dance selection lifting up the, "Crucifixion and the Resurrection of Jesus Christ." Mt. Pisgah's choir led in several joyful and spirited gospel selections during this worship experience. There was dancing and praise and shouting to an Almighty and Omnipotent God.

Bishop Norris paused the proceedings of the worship service to introduce the visiting Governor Ed Rendell of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. The Governor indicated that he came by to visit our bishop and this conference to discuss his accomplishments since he took office. He was proud of his health care programs, his concern for the elderly, his housing initiatives, his education initiatives and much more. He spoke about raising the minimum wage from $5 dollars per hour to $7 dollars per hour. The Governor then asked the conference attendees who are voters to return him in the upcoming elections for another four years.

Bishop Norris introduced the selected preacher to deliver the annual sermon. The Rev. Ellis Ishmael Washington, the pastor of St. Matthew AMEC, 57th and Sumner Streets in Philadelphia was presented as a very progressive and acceptable pastor who was charged with this awesome responsibility. Rev. Washington took his text from 2 Corinthians 11:21-29 (NRSV). His subject was, "Bragging Rights." He preached a powerful and insightful message. He asked the question, "What are we bragging about?" "Are we bragging about our converts, our accessions, the programs we have, or how much money we have raised. Rev. Washington posited that Paul, the apostle bragged about his misfortune, his disappointments, his shipwrecks, his being stoned and whipped; and his persecutions by strangers as well as false brethren. In a culture of bragging, God's call to the church is to emulate the humility of Jesus Christ."

The Board of Examiners led by the capable the Rev. Dr. Jeffrey N. Leath and his committee presented ministerial candidates beginning with those admitted on Trial to those who had completed the 4th year studies. Their years of study were acknowledged and appropriate recommendations were made.

The following persons were recommended to be elected and ordained Itinerant Elders: Lisa Ruby Cross, Stacy Jones Anderson, Frank I. Smart and Anthony Stevens.

Local Deacons: Sylvia Diggs, Henrietta Jacqui Ferguson, Ray Jenkins.

Local Elders; Lillie Grace Battle, Carlos Bounds, C. Victoria Brown, Tyneisha C. Drennen, Kevin Wardlaw and Collen Burke.

Local Elders: William c. Burger, Nikkea Hardy, Lillie B. McMuillen and Sylvia Williams.

Deaconesses: Lucille Goldsmith, Elizabeth Greten, Perrell Harp, Louise Lee Chappelle and Betsy Miller.

During the Wednesday evening ordination service; Bishop Wilfred Messiah, Presiding Bishop of the 20th Episcopal District preached a powerful ordination sermon. Bishop Messiah took his text form Judges 16. His subject was, "Like Any Other Man or Woman." What a magnificent word! The Bishop related the story of Samson and Delilah. He reminded us to stay far away from the pleasures and the women of the Philistines, if we don't want to be like any other man or woman.

The Hour of Power message on Thursday was delivered by the Rev. John F. White, pastor of Mt. Hermon AMEC., Ft. Lauderdale, Florida. He took his text from Acts 16:16-38. His subject was, "How Do You Handle Your Midnights." This was also a very powerful Word.

At the Friday Hour of Power, the Rev. Darnell Montgomery, Pastor of Metropolitan AMEC, New York City preached a powerful message. His text was taken from 1 Samuel 17:1-11. His subject was. "You are Not Looking High Enough." This message was thought-provoking.

Bishop Norris recognized the presence of certain official visitors during the week. The AMEC in Philadelphia has an ongoing relationship with the Lutheran Theological Seminary (UTI) program and it is reported that we have the largest student body of all churches at the seminary. The President of Lutheran Theological Seminary, Dr. Philip Craig, addressed the conference. Also accompanying the President was Dr. Andrew Willey and Dr. Steven Ray.

Youth Night at the conference is an exciting and stimulating experience. Youth from all over the expanse of the Philadelphia conference attended in large numbers. The youth choir was greatly comprised of the youth from the churches of the Harrisburg District. They were led by musical director, the Rev. Linwood Smith.

Youth of The Year contestants were presented. They were all very creative as they extemporized on the First District theme, "Walking Worthy of The Calling Wherewith We Are Called." (Eph. 4:1)

The contestants were: Dave Vance, Philadelphia District; Glen Burg, West District; Portia Washington, South District; Amber N. Mills, Harrisburg District.

Amber N. Mills was the winner of the Philadelphia Youth of The Year contest, and she will represent the Philadelphia conference during the contest at the Christian Education Congress in Dover, Delaware.

On Saturday morning, for the first time in the history of the Philadelphia Annual Conference, all clergy persons were mandated by Bishop Norris as per the 2004 Book of Discipline to attend a sexual misconduct workshop. The workshop was mandatory.

The workshop was conducted by Sheila Vance, Esq., and Robert Vance, Jr., Esq., from Villanova University Law School. This was a paradigm shift in dealing with sexual matters and behavior among clergy. Lawsuits can be brought not only against that pastor and the local church, but against the presiding bishop and the general church.

The presenters were very informative and the session elicited many questions. Now each pastor is charged with the responsibility of sensitizing officers of these very explosive issues, and providing a means of training for all those who work with children in the local setting.

This great Annual conference closed out on Sunday 21st May, 2006 3 p.m. at Tindley Temple United Methodist Church. This large cavernous church edifice was filled to capacity with congregants who had come from far and near. The Conference choir provided jubilant and majestic music. Bishop Norris acknowledged the significance and importance of Historic Tindley Temple--the House that Dr. Tindley built. Our bishop led us in honoring the memory of Dr. Tindley and his contributions to Christendom by the congregational singing of three of his hymn compositions: "When the Storms of Life Are Raging," and ”If The World From You Withhold…" The final selection,
"Beams of Heaven," was sung by the Rev. Charles Wood. This was indeed a melodious moving experience.

Bishop Norris had invited the Right Reverend Vinton R. Anderson, retired bishop to preach the closing message. Bishop Anderson took his text from Romans 8:28. His subject was "God Is Working It Out." Bishop Anderson said, "It does not matter where you are going after the appointments today. Just wait on the Lord. Let's be perfect in faith, let's love one another. In spite of our frightful behavior; God has planted a divine spark in each of us. Divine purpose is at the center of God's intention. The Holy Spirit will show us how to lead like Jesus.” We were indeed blessed and our hearts were strangely warmed as Bishop Anderson spoke with us by the way.

Following the giving of certificates to Conference Officers, and the reading of the pastoral appointments by Bishop Norris; this great conference was concluded and the benediction pronounced.

7. BISHOP RICHARD F. NORRIS LEADS SUCCESSFUL 1st DISTRICT PLANNING MEETING:

The Rev. Wilfred D. Lewis

The First District Planning meeting was held at the Greater Allen African Methodist Episcopal (AME) Cathedral, NY in June.

The proceedings were held under the District theme, "Walking Worthy of The Calling with Which We Are Called."

The Opening Worship service on Thursday June 8th began at 7 pm. , The Rev. Malcolm Eve, presiding elder of Bermuda served as the Worship Leader.

The Host Pastor, the Rev. Dr. Floyd Flake gave the Call to Worship, and the Rev. Richard Stenhouse lined the Opening Hymn of Praise, "Let All the People Praise Thee."

The Invocation was given by the Rev. Roland C. McCall of Grant AMEC, Boston.

Magnificent and majestic choral elections were rendered by the massive choir of Allen Cathedral. The Rev. Robert Lowe and his choirs led in a season of praise.

Bishop Norris presented the guest preacher for this opening service in the person of the Rt. Rev. John Richard Bryant, Presiding Prelate of the 5th Episcopal District.

Following the sermonic selection, "Showers of Blessings," Bishop Bryant approached the pulpit and employing the appropriate protocol greeted the congregation.

Bishop Bryant took his text from 2 Samuel 5:9, and preached form the subject, "Help Is Available." The Bishop talked about the false standards and values Hollywood and the entertainment industry has foisted on our unsuspecting youth culture. For instance giving a best song award of the year to a silly ditty entitled, "It's Hard Out Here for a Pimp." Bishop Bryant also spoke about the actors Denzel Washington and Halle Berry, who received best actor and actress Oscar Awards respectively for roles that are objectionable for us in the Black community. Those negative roles are given a place so that our youth can emulate that lifestyle. Bishop Bryant countered, “It’s hard out here to be a leader of your family and raise sane kids. It's hard out here to be a man and put food on the table. It's hard out here to be a pastor, and lead people to levels of excellence." Indeed this was a great message delivered in the typical Bishop John Bryant style.

This writer would like to state that the entire Planning Session was educational, informative and strategic. Every component of the First district met, and at the designated times gave reports to the entire assembly. The components included: The Y.P.D., Church School, WMS, Lay Organization, Sons of Allen, Women In Ministry, Young Adult Network, Christian Education, Evangelism Department, and Self-Help Board etc...

On the Friday June 9th 2006, the morning session was led in a stimulating devotional period by The Department of Evangelism let by the Director, The Rev. D. Albert Turk. At 10 am, Bishop Norris took his place and gave the State of The District Address entitled, “The Way Forward"

8. MICHIGAN SOUTH DISTRICT CONFERENCE “FOSTERING KINGDOM BUILDING RELATIONSHIPS”:

Dr. Michael C. Carson and the Reverend Bobette Hampton

During April 15-17, 2006 at Mount Zion A.M.E. Church in Battle Creek, Michigan Host Presiding Elder Norman V. Osborne set a “rich table” for all who were in attendance to “dine” from. The theme was “Be a Blessing.” The tee shirts had a Bee on them. This was based on the Beatitudes.

There was teaching, preaching and worship, pageantry, and time for contemplative thought. This column is but a brief sharing from such a wonderful meeting.

On Monday evening the “Soaring” South Michigan District Conference opened up with a major worship service. Presiding Elder and Mrs. Harold C. Huggins and Presiding Elder Delano Bowman along with a host of guests were in attendance.

The host choir sang to the glory of God along with the Mass Choir from Union Memorial A.M.E. Church-Benton Harbor, Michigan. Union Memorial’s Distinguished Lady Evangelist Catherine L. Carson rendered the selection prior to Senior Bishop Philip R. Cousin’s stirring message entitled “Narrow Margins.” His text was Genesis 15:5.

After the sermon and Invitation to Christian Discipleship, the Michigan Board of Examiners’ Chairman, the Reverend Michael Cousin presided over the service of Ordination for the Local Ministry and the Consecration of a Deaconess.

Presiding Elder Norman V. Osborne opened up the Tuesday Morning session by presenting South District Administrative Assistant Betty Tuggle. Sister Tuggle called the roll of the Pastors, Delegates, W.M.S. Presidents, and Lay Presidents.

Dr. Michael C. Carson was nominated and elected Secretary for the Conference and Pastor Bobette Hampton was nominated and elected Assistant Secretary for the Convention.

Elder Osborne presented Reverend Donald Phillips, Dr. Michael C. Carson, and Reverend Neal Smith, III as new pastors in the South District. These pastors had an opportunity to greet the Conference.

Elder Osborne shared that he should be viewed as the South District’s “Utility Man.” When a pastor is ill or some major situation occurs he will come and preach. He will “stand in the gap.” Elder Osborne shared that he will also serve as the South District’s resource person.

Fourth Episcopal District Accountant Presiding Elder Thomas M. Hughes spoke on the Annuity Program. He shared a great deal of information.

Senior Bishop Philip R. Cousin, Sr. commended Presiding Elder Osborne for being “A great preacher, theologian, administrator, pastor, and Presiding Elder.” Bishop expressed this thanks for having the opportunity to dialogue with the conference.

Bishop Cousin shared some timely teachings for the conference. Among the many points that Bishop made, he shared that many problems in the church are because of “a lack of communication.” “In some cases worship services have become good noise.” He cited that there are times should someone be asked about the worship service he/she attended the reply might be “I’m not sure what he/she said but it sure sounded good.”

Bishop stated that “it’s not always how fast you are in the ministry but how steady you are.” He commented “The A.M.E. Church is at the crossroads and there are some major decisions that we will have to make. We must bridge the gap between the young and the old there is too much division.”

Bishop pointed out that “We must become more focused and concerned on evangelism, teaching, and tithing.” He lamented that many state “I used to be A.M.E.” Bishop lifted up that it should not be “how much I am saved, but how I can save someone else. It’s not what we used to have. It’s what we have right now that will make the difference.”

After Bishop Cousin’s comments, Presiding Elder Osborne commended Bishop for his “rich sharing” with the conference.

The other preachers during the conference proclaiming the word were Pastor Gearldine Richardson from the Original Church of God, Battle Creek, Michigan and Pastor Addis Moore of The Mount Zion M. B. Church in Battle Creek, Michigan. Mount Zion’s choir also sang.

Bishop Robert Thomas, Jr. and Mother Beverly A Thomas greeted the Conference. Bishop Thomas shared his love and respect for Elder and Dr. Osborne and how delighted they were to be at the South District Conference.

Dr. Pamela Osborne, Esq., led a presentation on “How to Disagree without Being Disagreeable.” This was an excellent presentation in the area of Conflict Resolution, Negotiations, and the Church. This took into consideration The Cycle of Peace, The Cycle of Conflict, Ethics of Love, Active Listening, The Phases of Mediation, the utility of A Statement of Understanding. Dr. Osborne also pointed out when conflict should be increased and decreased.

Finally Dr. Osborne pointed out the Five Responses to Conflict.” There was an activity that the entire conference took part in concerning how to handle conflict in the church.

Elder Osborne instituted the “Heritage Night Worship Service” commenced. The dress was Afro-centric. He presented the first annual “Soaring Eagle Award” to Dr. Robert Brumfield (Oak Grove), Sister Shirley Brown (Brown Chapel), and Brother Joe Ezell (Highland Park).

During the District Conference Pastor Jerry Hatter taught on “Spiritual Leadership each morning. He also gave a preliminary report on the South District Sunday School Convention to be held June 16-17, 2006 in Kalamazoo, Michigan with Fresh Fire A.M.E. Church serving as the host church under the direction of Pastor Bobette Hampton.

Pastor Barbara Anthony presented the Preachers to the Annual Conference Candidates. Please see the Board of Examiners Report.

Elder Osborne asked for the prayers and condolences for the families of The Late Reverend Julius R. Keys (Benton Harbor, Michigan), and The Late Reverend Charles Owen (Detroit, Michigan). Elder Osborne also lifted up the names of The Late Bishop Harold Senatle, Reverend A. C. Wright, and Reverend Sharon Kennedy Collins.

Reverend Robert Blake presented the Conference Church Growth and Evangelism training schedule for the balance of 2006.

Pastor Alfred E. Johnson asked the pastors and laity to support the East Detroit Ministerial Alliance Revival. Dr. William Watley, Sr. Pastor of the Saint James A.M.E. Church Newark, New Jersey will be the revivalist. Saint Stephen A.M.E. Church (Detroit) will serve as the host church.

The 2007 South District Conference will be hosted by Saint Paul Downtown Detroit, Michigan-Reverend Andre Spivey, Pastor.

Elder Osborne shared that all of the business matters of the conference had been accomplished. He thanked Pastor and Mrs. Amos T. Chester, Mount Zion A.M.E. Church, and the South District for being so supportive. “We go forth praising and serving God with empowerment from the teachings that went forth with gladness in our hearts!”

9. THE GLOBAL CORNER - THE MEN’S FORUM ON THE OCCASION OF THE TOBAGO AIDS SOCIETY SPONSORED CONFERENCE ENTITLED CHALLENGES FOR MEN (THE DECLINING ROLE OF MEN IN COMMUNITY AND SOCIETY):

The Rev Elton Bobb PhD

Mr. Chairman I wish to thank you and the Tobago AIDS Society for your kind invitation, which ushers us here to examine the urgent issue of the Challenges of Men; the declining role of men in community and society. In order to appropriately address this issue, it is imperative for us to identify an acceptable theory in respect of the creation of humankind and his/her consequential role in society. The only place that I am qualified to peruse is the Holy Bible. In drawing reference to the scriptures therefore, I will attempt to evaluate man’s role and responsibility in society over time. Beyond doubt, it is important for us also to evaluate the extent to which man embraced the tenets of those responsibilities over the years and if not, we need to take a critical look at the consequences.

I am fully aware that I might not be addressing a gathering of the same religious persuasion as my own, but in the same breath I make no apology for casting my contribution to this discourse from a biblical perspective because that is the perspective from which my own upbringing has been nurtured and in spite of our varying beliefs and persuasions it is overwhelmingly accurate to say that man has always been expected to take his place as the head of the family and head of the household in almost every society and civilization. Christian doctrine has thought us that man shall be the head of the home as Christ is the head of the church.

Mr. Chairman allow me to further place this discourse into perspective as we focus on the assigned task, the declining role of men in community and society. Edward K. Rowell in his book, Quotes and Idea Starters for Preaching and Teaching, has extracted the following statement from a publication from Daniel Patrick Moynihan’s book entitled Family and Society:

There is one unmistaken lesson in American history; a community that allows a large number of young men to grow up in broken families, dominated by women, never acquiring a stable relationship to male authority, never acquiring any set of rational expectations about the future-that community asks for what it gets chaos; crime, violence, unrest, disorder-most particularly the furious unrestrained lashing out at the whole social structure-that is not only to be expected that is very near to inevitable.

The writer of the above quoted article posited his hypothesis against the background of the American society and drew his conclusion there from. I want to submit to this gathering today that those expressions mirror our own society in Trinidad and Tobago.

Mr. Chairman I want to put forward my own hypothesis today and it is that:

The structure of our society should be based on the foundation of a firm family design, with the male being the head of the household. The absence of that headship has resulted in the decadence; that is the breakdown in the moral, spiritual and social values that we are experiencing today.

We are taught in the book of Genesis that after God created Adam he declared, it is not good for man to be alone and He created a helpmate named Eve. In spite of your religious grounding, the fact is that the creation story as we know it recognizes the need for companionship and a structured family life. Moreover, Jesus himself declared that a man shall leave his father and his mother and shall cling to his wife and the two shall become one. It is imperative to draw upon these references because it is near impossible to address the reasons for the decline in society without recognizing the importance of an established and sacred family structure.

By way of illustration, let us examine some of the issue raised in Rowell’s article and relate it to our own societies and the first component we must examine today is crime. There is a significant correlation between the declining role of men in the homes in this country and by extension, in the Caribbean Region and the escalation of crime and deviant behavior particularly among our youth. Although Rowell’s quote mentioned the escalation of crime in the United States of America, recent statistics suggest that there is a fall in overall criminal activity on that continent but the statistic hastened to add that the overall fall was occasioned by the steep decline in criminal activities in Chicago. Even if we are to agree that there is a decline in respect of the US crime scourge, in our own country crime is on the increase. What is the reason you ask? The answer encompasses the declining role of men in community and in society.

Mr. Chairman, allow me to break down this presentation into three parts for purpose of brevity and in the interest of time. The first component I want us to look at today is crime, violence and unrest. Permit me to encapsulate these three issues into two words, deviant behavior. The second component that I want to briefly address is disorder and within this we will examine the effects of immorality and irresponsible sexual behavior in our community. Finally let us examine rebelliousness, that is, the unrestrained lashing out at the social structure in which we now subsist. Clearly we are setting out to determine the extent to which the declining role of men in communities and society has resulted in deviant behavior, disorder and rebelliousness.

DEVIANT BEHAVIOR

Mr. Chairman the anthropologist Margaret Mead in one of her publications has pointed out that unlike the mother’s role which is biologically based, the role of many fathers has degenerated into that of social creation. She emphasized the point that male dogs and cats have no reproductive importance after their minuscule sexual performance is over. The emergence of a similar male "rolenessness" in the inner cities was becoming apparent some decades ago and is now becoming obvious in the larger cities. The stark reality is that the diminishing "rolenessness" of men particularly fathers in our societies has contributed to crime, violence and unrest.

One needs to understand all of this in terms of its implication for our own society. According to data provided in the UN Demographic Yearbook 1999-2000, in Trinidad and Tobago more than 25% of households are now headed by women. The statistic states further that the rates globally vary from as low as 5% in Kuwait to as high as 40% in Botswana and Barbados. In terms of our own country there is a direct correlation between female heads of households and an increase in the rate of deviant behavior. Based on 1999 figures, the percentage distribution of prisoners was broken down as follows:

(i) Pre trial detainees 29.2%
(ii) Female prisoners 3.1%
(iii) Juveniles/minors and young persons 1.2%

-age group 12-16 10.4%
-age group 17-21 89.6%

According to the Trinidad and Tobago Prison web site, the official prison capacity as at 1999 is 4,348. The occupancy level based on the official capacity in 1999 therefore, shows a 111.9% occupancy or an over capacity of 11.9% while that of 2002 reflects an occupancy rate of 102.3% and an overcapacity of 2.3%. It is important to reflect on these statistics Mr. Chairman. The recent Gender Affairs Study conducted by researchers at the UWI points to the fact that of the entire prison population in 2002, 98% were males and 2% were females. Moreover according to the statistic 97% of the inmates belonged to the lower socio economic category.

DISORDER

In terms of disorder, for purposes of this morning’s discourse, I want us to focus on primarily health related issues and specifically on Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs). Let me state categorically that immorality and promiscuity are acts of disorder and these have lead to a significant threat to the health and wellness of our society. AIDS is now a reality in every village and town in our nation and we have been assuming away this issue for much too long. The National Strategic Plan and the activities of the NACC initiatives which are managed and directed out of the Prime Minister’s office are laudable. For those of you who are not familiar with the objectives of the Strategic Plan it is designed to address the following:

(i) Prevention of the spread of the disease;
(ii) Care treatment and support;
(iii) Research and surveillance;
(iv) Advocacy and legislation; and
(v) Monitoring and evaluation.

The stark reality is this; the heightened level of irresponsibility of men in community and society has contributed to the spread of HIV/AIDS within our communities to the extent where the most vulnerable group according to some statisticians is between the ages of 15 and 50. It will be critical therefore, for us to discuss the impact of the spread of this disease on the socio-economic wellbeing of our island during our plenary sessions. Permit me to touch briefly on the effects of this hidden epidemic in Trinidad and Tobago by quoting from a paper presented at a workshop which I attended in February of this year. This quote comes from a renowned and devoted expert in the field who provides care and treatment in San Fernando:

We know that there are about 28,000 persons in Trinidad and Tobago with the disease, yet the MRF has about 2000 patients on ARVs and in San Fernando we have 300 persons on ARVs. Why are there 25,000 plus patients not on treatment even though it is offered free of charge?

Mr. Chairman I can provide you with some information about HPV and its devastating effects on the communities in the United States of America but that probably requires another session or we can more appropriately this issue at the plenary session of this Forum.

REBELLIOUSNESS

As we walk or drive around our community these days Mr. Chairman there seems to be an escalation in terms of rebelliousness. There is scant or no respect for law and order. Profane language is used by almost every age group within this society with impunity. There is the absence of good manners, the absence of basic values such as good morning and good day, a rushing past adults and disabled folk in a bid to get to the head of the line at Banks and other institutions. The list is almost inexhaustible.

In the homes, many parents, particularly female heads of household are being pressured to purchase DVD machines, X-men, cellular phones that can take pictures and designer clothes and shoes by their teenage children. The absence or failure to provide these unessential items results in further rebellion and abuse particularly of female heads of households by their children (particularly boys). This abuse persists while some irresponsible fathers continue to weave their devious web of irresponsibility and macho image, resulting in the proliferation of children out of wedlock and the consequential absence of proper parental guidance.

In closing Mr. Chairman I wish to submit that the solution lies in men returning to the family structure and their urgent resumption of the role fathers, mentors and home providers. In all of this, the spiritual component must not be ignored. It is important to provide nourishment for the soul as it is important to provide food for the body. Let us not assume away the importance of ordered family prayers, with the male as the leader in the homes. Let us not trivialize the importance of attending church or religious institutions with the male as the leader, who takes the whole family to worship. Let us return to the bible and the other religious books where the laws for social success are appropriately enshrined.

The consequences will be the reduction of expenditure on bail bonds, legal fees and medical fees on communicable diseases. We will stem the wanton spread of the STD epidemic occasioned largely by promiscuity and immorality as we provide proper mentoring and guider-ship to our children. Consequently our communities will return to the serene, morally sound and spiritually acceptable entities that they once were. Ultimately we will be restored to a better world for you and for me.

10. AME WINS 2006 GEORGIA WOMEN’S GOLF ASSOCIATION INDIVIDUAL CHAMPIONSHIP:

By Brother Alphonso Ben Varner

Ms. Mary Riley, an active member of St. Peter A.M.E. Church, Fort Valley, Georgia won the 2006 Georgia Women's Golf Association Individual Championship.

The golf tournament was held at St. Simons Island, Georgia May 9, 2006 at the Sea Palms Golf and Tennis Resort and the Hampton Golf Club.

This was her first state title and the first African American female golfer to ever win this championship in its 42 year history. The field comprised of 223 of the top senior women golfers in the State of Georgia. She fired a two-day total of 156 to win by one stroke.

The family of St. Peter congratulates Ms. Riley for her outstanding accomplishments.

Reverend Bertram C. Smith

11. SISTERHOOD EXPLOSION – OSUSU ’06 CONVENES JULY 14-16, 2006 AT THE EMBASSY SUITES-LAX NORTH HOTEL:

Gwen Morris

The Women’s Missionary Society of the Fifth Episcopal District of the African Methodist Episcopal Church will hold its Sisterhood Explosion – OSUSU ’06 Conference July 14-16. The Conference will be held at the Embassy Suites-LAX North, 9801 Airport Boulevard. A registration fee of $100 per person includes the conference packet and materials, breakfasts and workshop snacks and a special Sunday Brunch. Room reservations at a cost of $115 per night may be made by calling 1-800-362-2779. Hotel parking is available for $11 per day per vehicle. Please specify OSUSU Group Name: 5th District AME when making your reservation.

In 2000, Rev. Cecelia Williams Bryant, Episcopal Supervisor of the Women’s Missionary Society of the Fifth Episcopal District of the African Methodist Episcopal Church organized the OSUSU (Women Creating Wealth) Campaign. OSUSU is a holistic opportunity for the African American woman to eliminate all forms of poverty from their lives: Poverty of Spirit, Health, Purpose, Courage, and Witness. Every woman attending the OSUSU Sisterhood Explosion will have an opportunity to accept the responsibility for making the decision that will set her upon the path of holistic healing, which is the foundation of OSUSU. This represents a continuation of her commitment to eliminate poverty from the lives of women and children. Financial literacy, debt elimination, home ownership, from welfare to work, investment and global possibilities anchor this movement. The NaMayo principal of OSUSU, “Women Creating Wealth”, is “Owe No One.”

The Conference begins at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, July 14, with an outing to the Garment District. Prior registration is required for the Garment District outing. Official registration begins at 3:00 p.m. on Friday. A “Ladies Night at the Apollo”, a time for conference attendees to showcase their talents and gifts, will be presented at 7:00 p.m.

Exciting workshops are planned to equip the African American woman to accept the responsibility for making the decision that will set her upon the path of holistic healing, which is the foundation of OSUSU.

Workshop topics and presenters include: “Personal Finance” – Ms. Joy Milan, J.D., “Career Management” – Rev. Gayle Davis Culp, “A Healthy You” – Ms. Patricia Barnes, R.D., “Sisterhood” – Dr. Joel Martin, “Entrepreneurship” – Ms. Darisa Crawford, “Spiritual Leadership” – Rev. Najuma Smith, “Tea Time With God” – Rev. Jerrye Gray Champion, Director, and “Male/Female Relationships: Sometimes We Carry Our Baggage With Us” – Dr. Carmela Washington-Harvey.

On Sunday, July 16, a breakfast beginning at 8:00 a.m. and Worship Service beginning at 10:00 a.m. will close out the Conference. Dr. Thelma Bryant Davis, daughter of Bishop and Mrs. John R. Bryant, Episcopal leaders of the Fifth Episcopal District, will present a spiritual dance. Dr. Bryant Davis is a trained dancer and actress. Mrs. Rosalyn Brookins, former Episcopal Supervisor of the 13th Episcopal District, will address the Worship Service.

For further information, please call 310-532-5290.

12. KUDOS FOR THE REVEREND ANDRE JEFFERSON FOR BEING THE ULTIMATE HOST OF THE AME LUNCHEON IN HAMPTON:

The Hampton Minister’s Conference is more than excellent preaching and outstanding anointed teaching. The AME fellowship is enough to mark calendars and schedules for next year. Hampton, Virginia is located in the Second Episcopal District under the anointed leadership of our Prelate, Bishop Adam Jefferson Richardson and his most capable spouse Episcopal Supervisor Mrs. Connie Speights Richardson.

Bishop Richardson presided at the luncheon and presented the dais. Remarks were given by Bishop William DeVeaux of the 6th District; Bishop Vashti McKenzie of the 13th; and Bishop Sarah Davis of the 18th District. Other leaders from other denominations joined in the fellowships. The food was outstanding, but fellowship was greater.

For many years the Rev. Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III served as coordinator of the AME luncheon held during the week of the Hampton’s Minister’s Conference. We salute and thank Editor Sydnor for his past labors of love. After being elected as Editor of the Christian Recorder, he and his wife, the Rev. Charlotte B. Sydnor relocated to Nashville, Tennessee (13th Episcopal District) to serve the Church in their respective duties.

The mantle for coordinating the luncheon was passed on the Rev. Andre Pierre Jefferson, esteemed pastor at Bethel A.M.E. in Hampton. Pastor Jefferson not only served as conduit and host. Pastor Jefferson went beyond the call of the duty. WE salute Pastor Jefferson and the members of Bethel, Hampton for a job well done.

Editor’s note: The Reverend Andre Jefferson indeed carried the AME Luncheon to a higher level.

13. PARKING LOT GREETERS:

*Lynette Hawkins

Add a Personal Touch to the Parking Lot

Does your church have greeters in the parking lot? Your congregation may already provide welcoming, friendly ushers and greeters at the entrance, hallways and fellowship hall but don't stop. Add greeters to the parking lot. The people in this area could be the very first point of contact worship guests experience when they drive up to the church. That's why the church parking lot can be a powerful evangelism tool. If you have never thought about it before, parking lots matter.

Regardless of how many visitors you get on a Sunday, the parking lot should always be hosted by one or more friendly greeters. Recently, I visited an early morning worship service at a medium sized church. The parking lot had no signs and I was not sure how to locate the sanctuary entrance. I drove up. Found a parking space on the third row and began my walk to the building. Two choir members were in a hurry running late to the side door. No one else was there. I stood at the three doors facing the parking lot wondering where to enter. Two people passed me but still no assistance offered. Finally, I was brave enough to stop a gentleman and ask, "Which door leads to the sanctuary?" He showed me. But I could not help but wonder how many people visit that church, get frustrated and get back in the car because no one is there to help? I am convinced, parking lot greeters matter.

Large or small, take the time to ensure the parking lot is warm and inviting. Here are a few ways that you can make sure when some one drives up something special happens in the parking lot.

- Identify a team to work the parking lot each Sunday.
- Give them badges or welcome vests that help to identify them as official parking lot greeters.
- Instruct them to smile and say, "Welcome".
- Encourage them to shake hands with guests in the parking lot.
- Arm them with answers to common questions such as, "Where is the sanctuary?" or "What time does the worship service starts?"
- Train greeters on how to direct people, answer questions and make visitors feel welcomed.
- Recruit people with enthusiasm and a natural smile.
- Keep the parking lot greeters up to date with changes in the ministry and special events.

Learn More about How to Communicate With Guests

* Written by Lynette Hawkins, founder of Awesome Insight a communications initiative of Beyond Marketing Group, Inc., which provides seminars and coaching for church leaders on how to attract, reach and keep worship guests. Visit her website www.awesomeinsight.com or contact her at (888)834-7525.

14. THE PARKING LOT... EVANGELISM AT WORK:

*Lynette Hawkins

Making a "Fuss" Over Guests

What happens when visitors arrive a little late? Are there any parking spaces designated for worship guests? It may be time to take a look at reserving a few spots near the door for visitors. Too often worship guests drive in a parking lot to attend service but get frustrated and leave because the closest parking space is four blocks down the street. Churches that desire to grow attendance take extra steps to make a fuss over worship guests. Special visitor parking spaces are a simple way to say visitors are truly welcomed. When a guest rides up and sees the visitor parking spaces immediately they'll know some one cares. Even if those spaces are filled, the fact that you cared enough to reserve spaces sets a positive tone before a guest ever enters the sanctuary.

Giving attention to guests makes people feel special. People do appreciate it. One church with very limited on-site parking reserved their entire parking lot for guests during a special holiday event. Guests enjoyed the luxury of off the street parking while members parked on the street. Another pastor shared with me that they offer shuttle buses from their remote parking so that people do not have to walk. All of these ideas point to one clear point, parking lots matter.
Parking lots are evangelism at work. Making the most of this area may lead to more return visits and happy Sunday morning worship guests. Here are a few tips to give to the facility team who manages your parking lot:

- Keep the parking lot clean and free of debris.
- Repair pot holes.
- Clearly paint the lines for parking spaces.
- Consider special visitor parking spaces up front.
- Add directional signs leading to the sanctuary
- Consider valet parking for seniors and adults with physical challenges
- Offer shuttle buses and greeters to assist in remote parking areas

For More Tips on How to Attract, Reach & Keep Guests
Forward this Newsletter to Your Evangelism Team

Written by Lynette Hawkins, founder of Awesome Insight a communications initiative of Beyond Marketing Group, Inc., which provides seminars and coaching for church leaders on how to attract, reach and keep worship guests. Visit her website www.awesomeinsight.com or contact her at (888)834-7525.

15. HISTORIC WOMEN’S CONVOCATION SET FOR AUGUST:

By the Rev. Salatheia Bryant-Honors

“My soul, wait thou only upon God; for my expectation is from Him.” Psalm 62:5

The anticipation is rising like the Texas heat as the Tenth Episcopal District prepares to welcome women from across our vast connection to Divine Expectations: International Women’s Convocation 2006.

Registration for the IWC ‘06 closes July 15. The current registration rate for this can’t miss experience is $280. Attendees may also register for a one-day session at a cost of $80. Online credit card payments can be made by logging on to www.tenthdistrictministrytowomen.org. The Convocation will be held August 16- August 19 at the Hilton Anatole Hotel in Dallas, Texas.

Divine Expectations is the vision of Rev. Dr. Jessica Kendall Ingram, Episcopal Supervisor of the Tenth District.

Since calling for the convocation Rev. Jessica has been living in divine expectations. She has a blessed assuredness that the convocation is an opportunity to move us to the next dimension of our spiritual walks.

“We already know that your life will never be the same. Come expecting God to move in a mighty way,’’ said Rev. Jessica. “I know for sure that as a result of this convocation our district, our churches, our people will never ever be the same.”
This great gathering of God’s women will offer four days of preaching, teaching, praising and prayer. It will give A.M.E. women a chance to connect with sisters from around the world.

Hotel reservations for this historic event should be made as soon as possible by calling 1-800-Hiltons. Make sure you state that you are making them for the Tenth District of the A.M.E. Church IWC ’06 to get the proper room rate.

In addition to the services and seminars, Divine Expectations is also about mission work.

The IWC is still raising money to sponsor more than 100 women from oversees districts to attend this gathering. Donations can still be made to the Just a Sister Away campaign to financially support this effort. Additionally, the August 17 love offering from the international praise & worship service will go to support the Balm in Gilead Centre in Wallacedene, South Africa. This center serves the needs of women who live in the impoverished areas of Wallacedene and Scottfdene. The center was founded by Rev. Jessica. The August 18 praise & worship service love offering will go to support the Elnita McClain Women’s Center located in Houston, Texas. The center has been closed for several years. The Tenth District Women’s Missionary Society is working to re-open it.

The convocation will feature a "women of honor" luncheon and anointed ministry through dance and song.

As a part of the preparation for Divine Expectations the women of the Tenth have been reading scripture, praying and fasting.

16. PROLIFIC HYMN WRITER:

Jeanette T. Johns

Isaac Watts was one of the greatest Christian hymn writers of all time. He wrote his first, “Behold the Glories of the Lamb”, when he was about 19 years old. Before he died at the age of 74 he had written nearly 700, and three centuries later they are still being sung.

Young Isaac showed that he was at ease with words at a very young age. He learned Latin at age 4, Greek at 9, French at 11, and Hebrew at 13. His mother was astonished by the quality of the poetry he spoke and wrote when he was only 7. Once when his father reprimanded him for laughing during family prayers, Isaac pointed to a bell rope by the fireplace, where he had just seen a mouse run up, and quickly explained in verse:

“There was a mouse, for want of stairs, Ran up a rope to say his prayers.”

His father was not as tolerant of Isaac’s constant poetic speaking as his mother was, and as he picked up his cane to further chastise him, Isaac sought to defend himself with a second verse:

“Oh Father, Father, pity take
And I will no more verses make.”

In the index of our A.M.E. Hymnal there are approximately 40 of Isaac Watts hymns listed. Among them are “When I Survey the Wondrous Cross”, “O, God, Our Help in Ages Past”, “From All That Dwell Below The Skies”, “Alas, And Did My Savior Bleed”, and “Joy to the World”.

17. Congratulations:

Congratulatory Messages/Praise Reports are posted by the Clergy Family Information Center on Friday of each week. Clergy Family Births, Graduations, Weddings and Wedding Anniversaries (25th, 30th, 40th, 50th, 60th, 75th)

18. CONGRATULATIONS FROM THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER:

The Christian Recorder staff wishes to extend our congratulatory message to all of those celebrating the blessings of God.

19. TRANSFORMING YOUR LIFE LESSONS INTO GENUINE GROWTH:

*S. Renee Smith

If you can stomach the first two paragraphs as you read about an incident that taught me important life lessons, I assure you that what you learn will be worth the facial and body contortions that my story may take you through.

A while ago my mother dropped me off at my home after a “cozy, girls’ session” over dinner. When I got out of the car, I didn’t register my unconscious thought that I was sandwiched between the curb and the car with limited space to move. Instead of stepping on the curb and then shutting the door, I twisted and turned in the limited space. The result, I slammed my left middle finger in the door. To make matters worst, instead of opening the door to take my finger out, I yanked it out of the door.

It happened so fast that I didn’t realize the damage I had done to myself until I shook my hand and blood flew everywhere landing on everything in sight including my face. At that point, I knew I had a problem. I opened the car door to share with my mother what had happened. We immediately went inside to view the damage. My entire fingernail, including some of the surrounding skin, found a new home: and it wasn’t on my finger. Within seconds of seeing this gruesome site, I felt myself going into shock. I immediately started asking for my father. I decided to lay on the floor so I wouldn’t fall down in a faint. All of a sudden, I was freezing cold to the point of shivering. My mother got a blanket. I continued to ask for my father.

As I lay on my kitchen floor, I could hear my mother telling me that she was going to pick me up and take me to the car. She thought I needed to go to the hospital. I continued to ask for my father. And within myself, I was praying to stay conscious. After a few minutes of trying to doctor my finger, my mother tried to get me to get up from the floor, but I wanted my daddy. I needed my daddy.

My mother and I briefly debated about her ability to pick me up and take me to the car. We also had to agree on where we would go once we got there. I won. With her assistance, I was able to get up and get to the car. We went to her house hoping that my dad would be there. He wasn’t. But after calling him, it seemed like within second he was home doctoring my womb. Due to the continuous bleeding, he changed the bandage throughout the night.

Several months have passed and my fingernail is returning, but I still feel leery about getting out of the car when it is parked too close to the curb. In fact, whenever my mother drops me off, I refuse to get out until she moves to a “safe spot.”

When I reflect on my life, as a spiritual being trying to have a human experience as someone said, I realize that when we learn to listen to what our life is teaching us through our daily experiences, we can transform our lessons into genuine growth.

The physical pain that I experienced that night cannot compare to the lessons that I learned. To some, it may appear to be a simple incident. But I am a deep thinker. I believe that even through this, God is speaking to me. What have I learned? The following:

1. Listen to that “intuitive thing” that God has given us. Long before that night, I would be sandwiched between the car and the curb. I would even come close to slamming my finger in the door. Instead of being attentive to what those close encounters were telling me, I would ignore the feeling and thoughts that I was getting. I would think within myself, “You nearly slammed your finger in the door.” God loves us so much that He always sends a warning before destruction. Through my intuition and sub-conscious thought, God was trying to inform me that I was putting myself in a dangerous situation.

That night, I could remember saying within myself that I knew that was going to happen. If I knew it was going to happen, why didn’t I develop a safer exit strategy? It’s simple. We don’t listen to ourselves. The “intuitive thing” that God put within is constantly trying to guide us. When we don’t listen the first time, He will speak louder still trying to get our attention. Unfortunately, we pass it off as some miscellaneous thought, but it is not. God is sending us a MESSAGE. Pay attention.

2. Long after the pain is gone, don’t forget the lesson. Sometimes we create chaos in our lives. We pray, plead, and cry for release from the pain of our circumstances. Shortly after we get relief, we return to the same field to play the same game. In other words, we don’t learn our lesson so we repeat the course. Stop the mayhem by learning the lesson: then apply what you learn to your life situations. It is what I call, acquiring and using WISDOM that brings about genuine growth.

3. Understand the value of your relationships. Fortunately, I have an open, loving relationship with both my parents. However, because I spend more time with my mother, I’m closer to my mother. For all the eyebrows that just rose above the forehead, just know that my comment in no way discounts the love that I equally share for my parents. It is a fact that the more time you spend with a person, the closer you are to them.

That night, however, I needed my father. As an adult, I never thought that I would need the presence of a person so desperately. When my dad arrived, I knew I was going to be okay. I knew that I was safe. People play different roles in our lives and their presence bring different feelings. Although we may not always realize it, it is spiritual. What we are feeling when we are around the person is their spirit. Every spirit brings an energy life force with it. You feel it when you are around others, but you don’t always acknowledge it. Sometimes you feel a positive emotion and sometimes it is a negative emotion. Whatever you feel don’t judge it, just trust it.

As you raise you awareness and sensitivity to the souls that carry a particular life energy, which is their spirit, you will begin to surround yourself around people who can meet your needs. When each person applies this spiritual principle to his or her life, each one of us will become more satisfied and content with our lives.

4. You’ll heal and have another chance. Life is full of surprises. The majority of the time we create our own messes and call them surprises. Although it doesn’t happen often, a situation really can take us off guard. Regardless of what happens, why it happens, or who it happen to—like my finger—healing comes. Take advantage of the healing and appreciate the miracle of spiritual, emotional, mental, and physical repair.

Don’t keep beating yourself up over yesterday’s lesson. Forgive yourself and others. Embrace the process and transform your life lessons into genuine growth.

* S. Renee Smith is an Image Consultant, Motivational Speaker, & Author of There Is More Inside. For booking information, visit her website at www.srenee.com or call (302)736-5131.

20. GENERAL OFFICER FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

Dr. Y. Benjamin Bruce, Sr., Presiding Elder of the North Orlando District, Central Conference, 11th Episcopal District and a former General Officer (Director of Worship & Evangelism for the African Methodist Episcopal Church) passed on yesterday, July 16, 2006.

Service arrangements:
Funeral
Friday, July 21, 2006
11:00 AM
St. Mark African Methodist Episcopal Church
1960 Bruton Blvd.
Orlando, FL 32805
407-422-6941 (Phone)
407-841-0307 (Fax)

Professional Services entrusted to:
Postell’s Mortuary
811 North Powers Drive
Orlando, FL 32818
Phone 407- 295-3857 (Phone)
Fax 407- 295-0307 (Fax)

The family has requested in lieu of flowers that contributions be made to: Edwards Waters College in the name of Dr. Y. Benjamin Bruce, Sr.

Edward Waters College
1658 Kings RoadJacksonville, Florida 32209
Phone: (904) 470-8000

Expressions of sympathy may be sent to:

Mrs. Gloria Bruce and Family
8128 Banyan Blvd.
Orlando, FL 32819
407- 352-1431 (Phone)
407-363-7423 (Fax)
Email: GloriaSBruce@aol.com

Please remember the Bruce family in your prayers.

21. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT ANNOUNCEMENTS PROVIDED BY:

Bishop Carolyn Tyler Guidry, Chair
Commission on Social Action Clergy Family Information Center
Ora L. EasleyEmail: Amespouses1@aol.comPhone: (615) 837-9736Fax: (615) 833-3781Voice Mail: (615) 833-6936Cell: (615) 403-7751

22. 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

THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER ONLINE ENGLISH EDITION (7/17/06)

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

1. EDITORIAL - THE BIBLE FROM COVER TO COVER – MY EXPERIENCE:

On Mother’s Day I went to the bookstore to buy a Mother’s Day gift for my wife, Charlotte. I was behind schedule in purchasing a gift and was just trying to find something, anything to keep me out of the “dog house.” As I was perusing the bookshelves, I came across a bible published by Zondervan entitled, The Bible in 90 Days. The plan outlined in the book and printed prominently on the book’s cover stated, “Cover to Cover in 12 pages a Day.” I was hooked! Just 12 pages a day and in three months I could read the Bible cover to cover, from Genesis to Revelation.

I need to admit that I have not read the Bible from cover to cover. And, if I have not read the Bible from cover to cover, I know that a lot of preachers have not read the Bible from cover to cover; and a lot of lay people too have not read it from cover to cover.

I have probably read all of the Bible, or at least most of it, but not cover to cover, not from Genesis to Revelation! There is a caveat to all of this and that is when I took courses in seminary I read portions of the Bible that dealt with those particular courses. For instance when I took a course entitled, the Pentateuch, I read the first five books of the Bible. When I took courses dealing with the Major and Minor Prophets, I read those books or at least perused them that dealt with the Major and Minor Prophets. The same was true when I took other biblical related courses like the gospels, the Epistles of Paul and a course entitled, the General Epistles. So, maybe, in that sense, I have read the entire Bible; but then maybe not.

I was reading a Jewish commentary about Isaiah and it says, in reading the book of Isaiah, “A reader will need to read slowly, and as a rule it will be necessary to read a text several times before one can even begin to understand it. It will probably not be helpful to read the whole book from beginning to end the way one reads, say, a novel. Rather, it is best to approach the book as a collection of texts or an anthology, in which each passage demands careful attention, thinking, rereading, and contemplation.” There is a school of thought that approaches the reading of the scripture similarly and so it’s not unusual that a preacher may not have read the Bible from cover to cover; and most of us will not admit that we have not read it from cover to cover. I am sure that medical students do not read all of their medical textbooks from cover to cover. And, I know that lawyers don’t read those boring law journals from cover to cover.

But now having said that, I did not want to be one of those preachers who had not read the Bible from cover to cover, so when I saw The Bible in 90 Days, cover to cover in 12 pages a day, I couldn’t resist the temptation to buy it and to challenge myself to do something that I have wanted to do for a long time, read the Bible from cover to cover. I started the process the week after Mother’s Day.

It has been a rewarding experience. I have suspended my normal devotional regimen, The Book of Common Prayer readings of the Daily Office and for now am reading, The Bible in 90 Days. I am up to Day 58.

Reading twelve pages of the Bible every day does not sound like much, but it takes discipline because it takes me 45 – 60 minutes to read the twelve pages. This experience has been wonderful and enlightening. I have gotten a wealth of fresh sermon ideas. I believe that my life’s experience is more mature now and I see texts differently.

Preachers, if you find yourselves preaching the same familiar texts over and over again; and if we admit it, most of us have been “down that street.” Reading the Bible from cover to cover, with the knowledge and experience that I already have, has put many of the biblical texts in a more orderly fashion. And to be honest, there are passages that I do not remember having read before, so I am getting a magnificent fresh panoramic view of the Bible. I wish that I had undertaken this challenge earlier.

I have now decided and made a commitment to myself that when I finish this reading of the Bible from cover to cover and return to Daily Office Readings of The Book of Common Prayer that I am going to follow the One-Year Bible Reading Schedule that’s found in The Christian Note Taker’s Journal that is given with the purchase of the AMEC Sunday School Union Thompson Chain-Reference Bible (NKJV).

I have rediscovered that my exegesis and hermeneutic of biblical texts is modified with my own spiritual growth and changing life experiences. I am enjoying a fresh look at the biblical text. I encourage all of you, clergy and laity to read the Bible through, cover to cover; from Genesis to Revelation.

I did buy my wife a Mother’s day gift.

2. RECOMMENDATION FOR THE DAY:

This is an amazingly informative short video about IBC (Inflammatory Breast Cancer); this is NOT the same breast cancer we are all familiar with (or should be).

PLEASE share this with other women and the men who love them; we may save a life with this simple information.

Click: http://komotv.com/stories/43313.htm

3. IDEA OF THE DAY:

Put your car keys beside your bed at night. If you hear a noise outside your home or someone trying to get in your house, just press the panic button for your car. The alarm will be set off, and the horn will continue to sound until either you turn it off or the car battery dies. And, the intruder might be frightened and deterred from committing a crime against you.This tip came from a neighborhood watch coordinator. Makes sense to me.

4. BROTHER HENRI L. WHITE, AN ICON AT AME MEETINGS, IS MISSED:

An AME Meeting just doesn’t seem to be the same with the absence of Henri White. I always referred to him as the “robe man” because he had such a unique personality and an unassuming way of taking your measurements, selling you a robe even if you had five robes hanging up in your closet at home or at church. He didn’t apply any pressure; he was just ready to “take care of business.” He always had the measuring tape hung around his neck as physicians and nurses walk around with a stethoscope their necks.

Henri White has been selling robes for a long time and he knew his craft. He was the founder and CEO of Robes of Faith, Inc., passed away on Monday, April 17, 2000 from complications following an automobile accident in Birmingham, Alabama. He was the husband of Faith “Danielle” White formerly of Brooklyn and Westchester County, New York. He was the son the late Valentine and Aileen S. White. Brother White was born October 16, 1937 in Darlington, South Carolina. Henri was 30-year U.S. Air Force veteran.

Henry and Danielle formed the Robes of Faith Company in 1988 and the Robes of Faith was known all over the United States and abroad. The Robes are cut from one piece of cloth and the Robes of Faith are worn all over the world. The robes are worn by clergy of numerous denominations. AME Bishops and General Officers in the untied States and in the overseas districts wear Robes of Faith. The robes have a distinctive style and easily recognized.

It was in 1996 that the administration of the African Methodist Episcopal Church selected Robes of Faith to exclusively design the official vestments for AME Church.

Henri, the ultimate entrepreneur was faithful to the family, a committed Christian and a dedicated member of the African Methodist Episcopal Church. He and Danielle moved to Charleston, South Carolina and became members of Ebenezer AME Church in Charleston. He was the o-chair of Ebenezer’s Business Ministry and a member of the Senior Vesper Choir. He was a member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., a Paul Harris Fellow Member of the Rotary International; a member of the Ancient Free and Accepted Mason, 32 Degree; and a past member of Joymen of Atlanta. Henry with his wife, Danielle founded Black Potentials Unlimited, an organization whose purpose was to help black entrepreneurs develop and showcase their business and products.

Recently, the Rotary Club of Daniel Island unanimously voted to name the annual High School Senior scholarship awards in honor of Henri L. White. Henri was a member for over 5 years and chair of the Rotary Foundation.

On December 26th 2005, Henri and Danielle hosted a Kwanzaa Celebration. What made it unusual was with exception of their grandsons Cliff Jr. and Nicky Goodwin, they were the only African Americans in our home of over 40 persons celebrating the seven principles of Kwanzaa. Henri continually strove to enhance the lives of those around him and to expose them to the values and riches of the African American culture.

When Henri was stationed in Northern Japan as the member of the U.S. Air Force, he was involved with the Japanese community on a personal level. Henri had a beautiful tenor voice and he and Danielle used to sing duets, and to each other as they traveled to conferences and he used to entertain in a Japanese supper club singing Japanese love songs During this time in Japan he spent hours daily in building up his wiry frame and became part of an all Japanese martial arts team. He traveled around Japan and participated in martial arts tournaments and he learned to speak Japanese fluently.

The Ebenezer AME Church of Charleston is in the process of expansion; one proposal is that the Library be named in honor of Henri L. White.

Henri was a child of segregation as were millions in our country. He did not attend college until he was in his thirties, (being from the farm and having limited funds). Danielle said, “Books were like gold to him. He devoured whatever he could. Having only torn and badly misused castoffs from the white schools in his own classroom he was continually thirsty for knowledge. Knowing there was a library he could not use always made him sad and angry inside, but not helpless. His quest for learning took him around the world.”

Henri was an extraordinary person who led and extraordinary life.

The Henri L. White Memorial Scholarship Fund (HLW-MSF) has been established in his memory. This scholarship fund is not part of the Daniel Island Rotary Scholarship. An annual fund raiser for the Henri L. White Scholarship Foundation will be held on his birthday, the 16th of October. Persons who wish to contribute may do be sending their checks to The Henri L. White Scholarship Foundation, 295 Seven Farms Drive Suite C-155, Charleston, SC 29492.

Henri lived a full and fruitful life. It’s not how long, but how well one lives (Dr. Benjamin Mays, the late President of Morehouse College.

Henry is survived by his loving and devoted wife, Faith Danielle; two daughters, Joyce (Clifford) Godwin, Orangeburg, South Carolina, MA2 Teri White, San Diego, California; one son; Sherwood (Theresa) Brown, Sumter, South Carolina; bothers, Willie James White, Lynchburg, SC; Julius (Denise) Dudley,; Jerome (Gina) Dudley of California; sisters, Hattie Williams of New Jersey, Tillie White of Timmonsville, SC; Christine (Jack) Dudley-Daniels of New York; one sister-in-law, Angela (John) Cater of Raleigh; one brother-in-law, Dan (Florence) Daniels of Alexandria, VA; Grandchildren, Cliff, Jr., Nicholas, Felecia, Jessica, Darien, Ariel, Shemikia and Rod; and a host of other relatives. Henri was preceded in death by his brother, Valentine White.

5. CELEBRATED A.M.E. CHURCH LEADER, REV. KENNETH WHITE REMEMBERED:

The Rev. Dr. Gertie Loretta Hurley

Washington, DC. —Religious, civic, and military leaders, family, friends, and colleagues remembered Rev Kenneth White at services held at Historic Mt. Zion A.M.E. Church and St. Stephen A.M.E. Church in Jacksonville, Florida, and at Brown Memorial A.M.E. Church in Washington, D.C. Rev. White left a legacy of over 78 years of dedicated service as an ordained elder in the A.M.E. Church. Remembered as a great Christian leader and man of many firsts, Rev. White, 100, succumbed at his Jacksonville residence following a fire in his home.

Called to the ministry early in life, the Miami, Florida native was licensed to preach in the African Methodist Episcopal Church in 1928 and received his itinerant deacon’s orders at Bethel AME Church in Tallahassee, Florida.

In 1933, Reverend White received his first Pastoral appointment to a church in Monticello, Florida. He pastored churches in Florida, Virginia, Maryland, and Washington D.C. After serving as a Pastor for 49 years, Reverend White was named Presiding Elder of the East Jacksonville District (later renamed South Jacksonville District). He served faithfully and diligently for 18 years. At the time of his passing, he was an Associate Minster of Historic Mount Zion AME Church in Jacksonville, Florida.

Rev. White was ordained an Itinerant Elder in 1943 and commissioned as an Army Chaplain and served until 1952. He had a very distinguished career as military chaplain with tours in New Guinea, the Philippines, Japan, and Korea. He was the first Black chaplain to baptize Japanese citizens into the protestant church. He was believed to be the oldest living Protestant World War II chaplain, and he was the first president of the AME Chaplains Association and the association’s most senior member. His decorated metals include the Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Metal, World War II Victory Metal, and Philippine Liberation Ribbon with One Bronze Star.

Rev. White received his early education in the public schools in Perry, Florida. He was the Valedictorian of Florida Industrial School, now known as Florida Memorial College. He was also a teacher and taught school in Hilliard and Perry, Florida. As a response to his call to ministry, he attended Edward Waters College-B. F. Seminary in Jacksonville, Florida, and graduated in 1944. He was affectionately called “Kid Gator” because of knockout punch in boxing. Remembered by Bishop Richard Allen Hildebrand as one who as a boxer, "knocked the hell out of them" and as a preacher, "preached the hell out of them," White was revered as one skilled in A.M.E. Church history and polity, a mentor and father, as well as a great preacher.

Rev. White reached his l00th birthday on January 1, 2006, which was celebrated at the Jacksonville Airport Clarion Hotel and attended by religious leaders, politicians, his former members, laypersons, family, and friends. Jacksonville FOX and CBS news programs featured Rev. White when he turned 100 years old. He was most recently honored the night before his passing by the Jacksonville City Council for being the oldest living Army chaplain.

He was married to the late Pauline Burney White Thurston for 25 years. Six children were born of this union who survive him; Rev. Dr. Gertie Loretta Hurley, Kenneth S. White, Rev. Dr. Margaret Ann Alston, Rev. Dr. Henry Young White, Rev. Patricia Naomi White, William Donell White; six grandchildren, and two great grandchildren. Lillian White, his wife of 23 years, and Maudess White, his wife of eight years, preceded him in death.

6. A BRIEF HISTORY OF THE A.M.E. CHURCH LAY ORGANIZATION:

Sister Adrian warren

- The "Organized Lay Movement" started at the General Conference in Kansas City, Missouri, in 1912.- It was known as the "Laymen's Missionary Movement.

- This Organization was short-lived and at the 1916 General Conference, not being satisfied with the "Laymen Missionary Movement," the "Connectional Lay College" was organized. This Organization met only once in four years at the seat of the General Conference and only delegates to that meeting were members.

- It was discovered early in the history of the "Lay College" that an organization that met every four years, and composed of a constantly changing membership or personnel, could not do a good job of mobilizing the laity for effective service in the church, and so the laymen in Little Rock, Arkansas, in 1946, abolished the old "Lay College" which met every four years at the seat of the General Conference, and organized the Connectional Lay Organization on the Episcopal District Level down through the Conferences to the local units and churches.

- The Connectional Lay Organization meets biennially and has a permanent membership that reaches down to the grass roots level of the laity.

- The Organization today is the culmination of a long and gigantic struggle which had been waged by a large number of courageous laypersons over the years.

- This is a quote from the official pronouncement of the Bench of Bishops in the official statement to the General Conference in 1946"

"It is natural that the activity of the laymen should be resented by some well-intentioned, but misinformed individuals. One of the hopeful signs of our church is the discontent among some of the laity. African Methodism, revolutionary by nature, should stir and not quiet this discontent, for an inactive and unintelligent laity can do great damage to the church. A passive laity is always dangerous, for it produces priest craft; by priest craft, we mean selfish practices of any ministerial group. Corruption is inevitably the result when the laity of any group remains inactive, unintelligent, or docile. African Methodism needs a vigorous, healthy, and well-informed laity. This will produce a productive and dynamic church. We must emphasize the teaching functions of our ministry, otherwise our laity, untutored and uninterested, will become a passive group and our ministry will degenerate into a disputed craft, managing things by themselves. We believe that the Laymen of today are seeking respectable participation, rather than the mere right of rejection or consent to the actions of their ministerial brother. This is a natural result of the democratic process.

The Pressures of democracy are felt in every phase of our modern life. Naturally, they are felt in our church government. The laymen, in reality, are the governors of the church, for the African Methodist Episcopal Church may be numbered among the free churches with relation to the activity of its lay constituent. The participation of the laymen in the government of the church extends from the Local Congregation to the General Conference. This participation diffuses a responsibility which is healthy. During the last quadrennium the Laymen's Organization has functioned magnificently. Its leaders have sought to give proper direction and have been instrumental in creating a feeling of trust and interdependence throughout the church. They have removed the fear that many entertain with regard to the so-called lay movement. The district and national gatherings of the laymen have been helpful and inspiring and earnest efforts have been made to be helpful, rather than abusive; and constructive, rather than destructive. In other words, the lay movement enhances the full program of the church and helps to usher in a period of high expectancy."

The Baltimore Conference Lay Organization had its inception in the year of 1956 during the tenure of Bishop D. Ward Nichols. Bishop Nichols appointed Mrs. Clara E. Harris as president. Therefore, Mrs. Harris was the first official president of the Baltimore Conference Lay Organization. Under her leadership, Lay Organizations were established at Bethel-Baltimore, Payne, Waters, St. John, Shiloh, Hemingway Temple. Mt. Calvary, Mt. Zion-Longreen, and Trinity.

Note: The organization referred to its membership as Laymen until the 1979 Biennial Meeting when the term "Laymen" was replaced by "Lay." Lay and/or Laymen is used interchangeably throughout the history.

Visit the Baltimore Annual Conference Lay Website:
http://www.bclo.org/index.htm


Used with permission of Baltimore Annual Conference Lay Organization (Brother J. Wayman Henry)

7. TRAVEL WITH BISHOP AND MRS. RICHARD A. CHAPPELLE AND MEMBERS OF THE 12TH EPISCOPAL DISTRICT OF THE AME CHURCH TO ZAMBIA, BOTSWANA, SWAZILAND, LESOTHO, AND SOUTH AFRICA:

AUGUST 01 – 14, 2006

NOTE: For travel to South Africa, please ensure that your passport has a minimum of two blank visa pages facing each other for each entry into South Africa, (MUST HAVE THE WORD ‘VISA”) to enable entry visas to be issued. Passport must be valid at least six months beyond the intended period of stay in South Africa.

Itinerary:

AUG 01 LITTLE ROCK/ JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA

AUG 02 JOHANNESBURG / LUSAKA, ZAMBIA
Arrive into Johannesburg, and connect to your ongoing South African airlines flight this afternoon to Lusaka, where on arrival this evening you will be met by our representative and transferred to your hotel for 3-night stay.

ACCOMMODATIONS: INTERCONTINENTAL HOTEL LUSAKA (B)

AUG 03 & 04 LUSAKA
Two full days for independent activities.

AUG 05 - LUSAKA / JOHANNESBURG / GABORONE, BOTSWANA
Today you will be transferred to the airport, fly to Johannesburg and connect to ongoing flight to Gaborone, on arrival you will be met and transferred to your hotel for 2-night stay.

ACCOMMODATIONS: GABORONE SUN HOTEL (B)

AUG 06 - GABORONE
Full day for independent activities.

AUG 07 - GABORONE / JOHANNESBURG / MANZINI, SWAZILAND
Today you will be transferred to the airport fly to Johannesburg and connect to your flight to Manzini. On arrival you will be transferred to your hotel for 2-night stay.

ACCOMMODATIONS: ROYAL SWAZI SUN HOTEL (B)

AUG 08 - MANZINI
Day at leisure for independent activities.

AUG 09 - MANZINI / JOHANNESBURG / MASERU, LESOTHO
This morning transfer to the airport fly back to Johannesburg and connect to your flight to Maseru; on arrival you will be met and transferred overland to your hotel for 3-night stay.

ACCOMMODATIONS: MASERU SUN HOTEL (B)

AUG 10 & 11 MASERU
Day at leisure for independent activities.

AUG 12 - MASERU / JOHANNESBURG – SUN CITY
Today you are transferred to the airport to fly to Johannesburg. You will be met and transferred by road to Sun City where you spend one night.

ACCOMMODATIONS: THE PALACE OF THE LOST CITY (B)

AUG 13 - SUN CITY / JOHANNESBURG
At leisure until time for your overland transfer to the airport in Johannesburg for the South African Airways flight back to the US. (B)

AUG 14 - LITTLE ROCK
Arrive into Little Rock today with memories to last a lifetime!

W E L C O M E H O M E

Package includes: Round trip airfare to Southern Africa from Little Rock

Airfare within Africa
Taxes and transfers
Land travel in deluxe air conditioned coaches
Breakfast daily
First Class Hotels

Package Price: $5,175 per person double occupancy (single supplement $1,093)

(Upgrade to Business Class air – additional $5,500 per person)

Payment: Deposit of $850 per person due immediately to hold space; balance due by June 1, 2006. Credit cards are welcome for deposit or any other payments

Cancellation: Cancellation charges per person will be applied as follows:

Cancellation before May 2 - $250
Cancellation between May 2 and June 1 - $850
Cancellation between June 2 and July 15 – 50% of total tour cost
Cancellation after July 15 – 100% of total tour cost

Travel Insurance is strongly recommended to cover cancellations for medical and other emergencies
For reservations or additional information contact:
Arrangements by Lion World Tours, Ontario
8. SCHOLARSHIP INFORMATION:

Name: Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship

Description: Offers grants for U.S. citizen undergraduate students of limited financial means to pursue academic studies abroad. Such international study is intended to better prepare U.S. students to assume significant roles in an increasingly global economy and interdependent world. Award recipients are chosen by a competitive selection process and must use the award to defray eligible study abroad costs. These costs include program tuition, room and board, books, local transportation, insurance and international airfare.

Award Amount: Up to $5,000

Deadline: September 26, 2006
Website/Contact Info: _www.iie.org/programs/gilman/apply/spring.html_
(http://www.iie.org/programs/gilman/apply/spring.html)
*****
Name: Intel Science Talent Search
Description: Since 1942, Science Service has made dreams come true through the Science Talent Search (STS). Intel is the sponsor of this nationwide competition? America's oldest and most highly regarded pre-college science contest. Eligible students include high school seniors in the United States and territories, and American students attending school abroad. Each year, almost 2000 students accept the challenge of completing an entry for the Intel Science Talent Search, with finalists competing for the top prize, a $100,000 scholarship.
Award Amount: $5,000 - $100,000

Deadline: November 16, 2006
Website/Contact Info: http://www.blogger.com/www.sciserv.org/sts
202-785-2255
***********
Name: American Political Science Association Minority Fellows Program

Description: For minority students entering a doctoral program in political science for the first time. Applicants must demonstrate an interest in teaching and have potential for research in political science. Established in 1969 as an effort to increase the number of minority scholars in the discipline, has designated more than 300 fellows and contributed to the successful completion of doctoral political science programs for over 70 individuals. This year, the Association has refocused and increased its efforts to assist minority students in completing their doctorates by concentrating not only on the recruitment of minorities, but also on the retention of these groups within the profession.

Award Amount: $4,000

Deadline: October 25, 2006
Website/Contact Info: http://www.blogger.com/www.apsanet.org/section_427.cfm apsa@apsanet.org
******
Name: American Political Science Association Minority Fellows Program

Description: For minority students entering a doctoral program in political science for the first time. Applicants must demonstrate an interest in teaching and have potential for research in political science. Established in 1969 as an effort to increase the number of minority scholars in the discipline, has designated more than 300 fellows and contributed to the successful completion of doctoral political science programs for over 70 individuals. This year, the Association has refocused and increased its efforts to assist minority students in completing their doctorates by concentrating not only on the recruitment of minorities, but also on the retention of these groups within the profession.

Award Amount: $4,000

Deadline: October 25, 2006
Website/Contact Info: http://www.blogger.com/www.apsanet.org/section_427.cfm apsa@apsanet.org
*******
Name: AGC Education and Research Foundation Undergraduate Scholarship

Description: The Associated General Contractors of America (AGC), the voice of the construction industry, is an organization of qualified construction contractors and industry related companies dedicated to skill, integrity, and responsibility. Undergraduate scholarships are available to college sophomores and juniors enrolled or planning to enroll in a full-time, four or five-year ABET or ACCE accredited construction or civil/construction engineering program. Each applicant must complete ALL sections of the application and attach an electronic copy of his/her official transcript before submitting it to the AGC Foundation.

Award Amount: $, 000

Deadline: November 1, 2006

Website/Contact Info: _http://www2.agc.org/scholarship/_ (http://www2.agc.org/scholarship/)
*****
Name: Special Libraries Association Affirmative Action Scholarship

Description: Available to graduating college seniors and master's candidates. Must be a member of a minority group and be enrolled in a library service program. The Affirmative Action Scholarship will be granted only for graduate study in librarianship leading to a master's degree at a recognized school of library or information science. The Affirmative Action Scholarship will be granted only for graduate study in librarianship leading to a master’s degree at a recognized school of library or information science. May be used for tuition or any research-related costs.

Award Amount: $6,000

Deadline: October 31, 2006
Website/Contact Info: http://www.sla.org/content/learn/scholarship/sch-index/index.cfm#aascholar

9. DO YOU BELIEVE IN WHAT YOU ARE HOPING FOR?:

S. Renee Smith

Have you ever wondered why some people “make it big”? From the outsiders’ perspective, it seems like with little effort they have a great message, their presence is unforgettable, and their spirit is unshakable. It appears that out of nowhere the world embraces them with the kind of love and support that only the “ordinary person” can only imagine. How do the great spiritual, business, medical, educational, and other industry leaders find their place in the hearts of people? How do they distinguish themselves from others? How do they live their life’s mission? How do they manifest what they are hoping for?

As a little girl, I would imagine how great and impactful my life would be as an adult. I can remember talking to myself, acting out my role as a person who was sharing herself with the world. When I reflect back on those images and listen to that soft, yet significant voice, I now realize that my life’s journey has been about manifesting those images by finding the right paths and creating the right experiences that would manifest the images of possibility that God had placed inside of me.

The process of dream manifestation begins with a thought. When you catch a particular thought and take ownership of it, it creates images. Those images then develop into a vision. Once we capture the vision, we move into the hoping stage. This is where many of us get stuck. The only way to avoid being stuck is to mobilize yourself through your actions. When you act on your hopes, you are in the belief stage. Your belief will manifest your dream.

Do you ever feel like a bottle of soda that has been shaken and wants to desperately escape the boundaries of the plastic bottle? You feel like there wasn’t enough room within you to hold all that God has placed within you. At any moment, it could explode. When I put myself in the “holding” state of hoping because of fear, I feel the same way.

So, why hasn’t it exploded? It is simple. Just like a bottle of soda, unless you want a mess, you have to remove the top carefully. God gives us the vision, but He doesn’t hand it to us on a silver platter with a smile. His process is slow, steady, insightful, and life changing. You have to be willing to endure, discover, and transition during each level of dream manifestation. Hoping is the desire stage. During this stage, we understand the possibilities, but we’re not sure it can happen. Believing is the action stage. This is when our confidence in the possibilities mobilizes us toward what we know will happen.

The more insightful we become through our experiences, the better we become at creating the images that were placed within us. Because life is a journey of trial and error, many people prefer to avoid their divine path. And, unfortunately they do. Those people prefer to forfeit God’s plan for a more “reasonable, less challenging” plan because the journey becomes too generous with obstacles.

Obstacles are less complicated than we make them. Obstacles are messages to us. They are either saying now is not the time, but keep knocking, knock on another door for greater prosperity, you are not safe with the results behind this door, or you are going in the wrong direction. Now, think about it. If God loves us enough to share that important information with us, I think, the least we can do is say, “Thank you”.

Once we get over the fact that obstacles are not meant to shut us down, but to move us to where we are truly meant to be, the next step is to transform our hope into genuine belief.

Everywhere I speak, I meet people who are hoping for something. The good news is that most people desire more than what they have. The bad news is that hope doesn’t manifest dreams, belief does. The scriptures are clear that our belief manifests what we are hoping for. Take for example the woman with the issue of blood for twelve years. According to Matthew 9:21 it reads, “For she said within herself, If I may (her hope) but touch his garment, I shall (her belief) be whole.” The woman was hoping because she didn’t know how she would handle the obstacles, but she knew that if she made it through the unpredictable obstacles her belief would manifest what she was hoping for!

Here are three steps that will help you to begin developing your ability to manifest your dreams:

1. Mobilize Your Hope: Zero action equals zero results. When you believe in your dream, you will work for it. In most cases, to get a result all you have to do is make a call, go to a particular location, and ask a question. Everyone begins at the starting line. It may not be at the same starting line, but nonetheless, there is a starting point for every soul.

2. Learn Your Lesson: You will have days when you’ll feel like you can conquer the world, and on other days you’ll feel like the world has conquered you. Accept that as being a part of the journey. You don’t have to feel anxious, frustrated, and angry at the lessons that God is teaching you. Your experiences are only lessons. Listen to your life, learn your lessons.

3. Quiet Yourself for Direction: It is difficult to hear when there is so much noise around and inside of us. Every question has an answer. Every path is going somewhere. Every day requires our attention. When we give ourselves permission to stop, listen, and move through life as God ordained us to, it is then and only then that we can manifest what we are hoping for.

* S. Renee Smith is an image consultant, motivational speaker, columnist, and author. For more information visit http://www.srenee.com/ or call (302)736-5131.

10. BERMUDIAN AME PREACHER NUMBER 9 ON GOSPEL BILLBOARD:

Bermudian, the Rev. Robert Lowe has debuted on the Gospel Billboard as #9. He will be in concert here in Bermuda on August 19 at the Gospel Praise Fest and Arts Explosion at the Bermuda Super Soulfest. Tickets go on sale this weekend. Spread the word, buy the CD and continue to support this artist and keep him on the charts!!!

11. BISHOP VASHTI MURPHY MCKENZIE TO PREACH OF THE CONGRESSIONAL BLACK CAUCUS PRAYER BREAKFAST:

Bishop Vashti Murphy McKenzie has been selected to preach at the Congressional Black Caucus Prayer Breakfast that will be held on September 9, 2006 at the Washington, DC Convention Center.

12. BETHEL AME CHURCH YOUTH RECOGNIZED FOR ATHLETIC, ACADEMIC AND SERVICE CONTRIBUTION TO SCHOOL AND COMMUNITY:

Sister Jeanette Johns

Joseph William Marve II, known to his teammates and friends as “Joe Marve”, recently received a $1,000 scholarship from Bethel A.M.E. Church, Huntington. Joe has been a participant in Sunday School and church activities there since the age of 3 and currently serves on the Men’s Usher Board as well as a musician who sings duets with his father, Rodney Marve, and with his family group, “Those Marvelous Marves”. His grandfather, Rev. Clarence B. Johns, Jr., a 48-year resident of Farmingdale, served as pastor of the church for 12 years until his death in March 2003.

Joe is a 2006 graduate of Farmingdale High School and has distinguished himself as a three-sport athlete, excelling in all three and receiving numerous awards, medals, and recognitions in Football, Wrestling, and Track. Among the most recent awards received is the “Heller Family Scholarship”, a $1,000 award which is presented to a student who participates in dual sports, one of which has to be wrestling. Joe was selected as recipient of “The Thomas Clinton Award” from Farmingdale Hawks, the community team he played with as a youngster. This award goes to a senior who has continued to play the game of football and has excelled in it. He received the “Varsity Football Coaches Award” (shared with Kenny Reid) and the coveted Pete Nistad Award, Farmingdale High School’s Award for “Best Overall Athlete”. The award states that it is given “for willingness to extend oneself for improvement, dedication towards a goal, loyalty to one’s family and school and a burning desire to excel in whatever sport he participates in.”

Joe was selected to represent the State of New York on the All-American New York Football Team at the 18th Annual “DOWN UNDER BOWL” to be held in Australia in June-July of 2006, sponsored by International Sports Specialists, Inc.

In addition to the athletic awards, Joseph was awarded a Certificate of Appreciation for “The Farmingdale High School Award for Outstanding Service”; a Certificate of Achievement from the Department of Physical Education for “Achievement in Physical Education”; and a Certificate of Achievement from the Department of Technology for “Achievement in Automotive Occupations.” He also received a Merit Award in the amount of $350 from the Council of PTAs for “Outstanding Academic, School, and Community Service”.

Joe is now a student at Nassau Community College taking summer courses that will prepare him for majoring in Physical Education. After receiving his AA Degree, he expects to transfer to C. W. Post, Hampton University, or Hofstra University and continue his career path toward becoming a Physical Education Teacher and Football Coach. He is the son of Rodney Marve, Assistant Director, Bay Shore-Brightwaters Public Library and Cynthia Marve, teacher of Special Education at Wyandanch High School. His sister, Jeanne Marie Marve, is a 1999 graduate of Farmingdale High School and a 2003 graduate of Hampton University. His grandmother, Jeanette T. Johns, started her career as a Children’s Librarian at Farmingdale Public Library.

*Jeanette Johns is the proud grandmother of Joseph Marve

13. THE ALLEGHENY SCRANTON DISTRICT AND PITTSBURGH DISTRICT COMBINED CHURCH SCHOOL CONVENTION:

On June 15-17, 2006, the 138th Session Combined Church School Convention of the Allegheny Scranton District and the Pittsburg District commenced under the respected leadership of the Rev. Dr. Eric L. Brown (Presiding Elder) and the Rev. Samson M. Cooper (Presiding Elder) converged on Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church in Lewistown, Pennsylvania, where the Rev. Bernard Carpenter is the pastor.

The theme of the Combined Church School Convention: “Servant’s: Called to Make a Difference” taken from I Peter 4:10-11.

This certainly was evident with the young people, musicians, the assistant secretary, marshals, the Finance Committee, the Resolution Committee and all who participated in the Church School Convention.

The opening worship service commenced with the preached Word delivered by the Rev. Arthur L. Doctor, Jr., pastor of St. Paul A.M.E. Church, Washington, PA.

Class Sessions were then taught by the class instructors:

Ages 3-5
Ruth Long, St. John AMEC, Bridgewater PA
The Rev. Wilma Jean Smith, St. John AMEC, Bridgewater, PA

Ages 6-8:
Valerie McElvy - Wayman AMEC, New Brighton, PA
Dolores White - Wayman AMEC, New Brighton, PA

Ages 9-12:
Marilyn Fisher - Brown Chapel, AMEC, Pittsburgh, PA
Charles Brazier - Brown Chapel, AMEC, Pittsburgh, PA

Ages 13-15:
Bert Ogden - Park Place AMEC, Homestead, PA
The Rev. Rhonda Frazier-Higgins - St. Stephens AMEC, Latrobe, PA

Ages 16-17:
Gwen Cooley - St. James AMEC, Erie, PA

Superintendents:
The Rev. James McLemore - Bethel AMEC, Pittsburgh, PA
Russell Bynum - Brown Chapel AMEC, Pittsburgh, PA

Adults and Pastors:
The Rev. Lawrence Thompson - Brown Chapel AMEC, Pittsburgh, PA
The Rev. Kary Williams, Jr. - Wayman AMEC, New Brighton, PA

A fun-filled day at Delgrosso’s Amusement and Water Park on Friday was with great fellowship. A Commitment Service which showcased talent from the Host Church and within the Districts certainly was a spirit-filled service. There were seven teenage girls who rededicated themselves to Christ and one young man who was saved. Truly, the theme became a reality and they were encouraged to stand strong.

For this historic event, the Allegheny Scranton District and the Pittsburgh District was well attended with a total of 216 people registered.

Submitted by: Miss Shelly Brown, Allegheny Scranton District Secretary, Member of St. John AME Church Bridgewater, PA

14. ATHENS/MALAKOFF WELCOMES GOSPEL SUPERSTAR:

By: Delanda S. Johnson, Guest Writer

In a joint event, Allen Chapel AME Church (Athens) and Johnson Chapel AME Church (Malakoff) come together to bring Gospel Super Star Recording Artist James Bignon to hold its 1st Annual East Texas Gospel Music Workshop.

The workshop is schedule for July 27-29, 2006 with rehearsal on Thursday and Friday (July 27 & 28) and closing out on Saturday, July 29, 2006 with a Gospel Concert. Both rehearsal and concert will be held at Allen Chapel AME Church, 512 Underwood St. in Athens. The time for rehearsal is 6:00 p. m. and the concert time is 7:00 p. m.
To support the workshop if you love singing and praising the Lord, you may register on the opening day of the workshop or you may pre-register. The registration fee is $25.00 per person. You may call Chris Baker, Music Director (903-519-9034) or Delanda S. Johnson (903-489-2329) for more information.

As both churches prepare to host James Bignon, all efforts are being made to make his visit in Athens, Texas one that he will never forget.

“Through the course of my career, I have worked with several African Methodist Episcopal Churches, but this is my first visit to Athens, Texas and I’m excited about it,” said Bignon.

James Bignon, who is from Atlanta, Georgia, is one of the countries most respected and accomplished choir leaders and has been a powerful force in traditional gospel music for more than 17 years.

As a workshop clinician, Bignon’s workshop consist of Vocal Techniques, Conducting Techniques, Directors of Music & Relationships, general sessions preparing choir for concert, and much more. It was James Bignon in 1995 that led the 10-member ensemble of the original cast of “Riverdance” representing the United States of America singing songs such as “Hope to the Suffering” and “Freedom.” Bignon and his ensemble toured the United Kingdom and Ireland for six months with this enormous theatrically successful musical starring Michael Flatley and Jean Butler.

In 1990, his final album with the Georgia Mass Choir, “Hold on Help is On the Way” earned a Grammy nomination.
Before organizing his own The Deliverance Mass Choir in 1991, he was one of the key elements of the world renowned Georgia Mass Choir of which he became Director of Music in 1983 at the request of its founder, Rev. Milton Biggham.

In 1996, “What a Mighty God We Serve” with a recording choir 400 voices strong proved to be another incredibly successful project for Bignon on Atlanta International Records. His fifth release on AIR Gospel and his first studio project, “On the Other Side of Through” was an immediate hit. Bignon worked with the Gospel Music Workshop of America Mass Choir writing and recording, “He’ll Make Everything Alright” in 1991 and “God Knows How Much You Can Bear” in 1993.

The new millennium (Year 2000) brought yet another great album entitled, “Miracle” on Zhana Records label, which was a large mass choir LIVE recording done in Atlanta and this project is still in great demand. His last release “God Is Great” remained on Billboard Gospel Charts for 26 consecutive weeks.

When classifying his music with today’s gospel artist and how he has seen gospel music change over the years, Bignon stated the “Praise & Worship has become the more favored style of music today. I have seen the transition from traditional to contemporary and now, “Praise & Worship.”

The music industries support “Praise & Worship’s popularity because is has touched so many lives and greatly increased the number of people wanting to sing the songs in churches and desiring to become Gospel Recording Artists. Traditional with a touch of the contemporary flavor maintaining its primary purpose like all styles of gospel music and that is, proclaiming the good news of Jesus Christ.

Bignon stated, “ My music changing peoples lives has been confirmed countless times through the Years from one on one conversations (testimonies of encouragement, people accepting Christ, rededications to Christ, their churches, choirs, etc., letters, e-mails, and the list goes on. My music has changed and is changing lives today; that is one of the major driving forces behind what I do.”

Bignon encourages people to seek God for what His will is for your live. "Study to show yourself approved." Do not be jealous of the gifts of others, love, help and respect each other.

“Be serious in your church work, music ministry, have patience with others whom skills are not developed as yours, but must of all this is God’s business. You are not singing, playing, directing, etc., for man’s sake, but you are doing it all to glorify God.

Remember, take care of God’s Business and He will take care of yours,” said Bignon.

15. ST. JAMES MEMPHIS MISSIONARIES HEAR FROM THE FIRST LADY:

By Beverly T. Goines

St. James AME Church Memphis recently celebrated the Annual Missionary Day in high spirits and in high style. The Laura Lemon Missionary Society of St James heard from one of its own members in a service of jubilant spirit and true gospel praise. The speaker for the day was Mrs. Brenda Reid, wife of St. James Pastor, Rev. Walter Reid, Jr.

The Annual Day was an outstanding event as evident of the Parade of Hats as the missionaries and other women of the congregation donned festive hats for the celebration. With members of the Laura Lemon Missionary Society taking the lead in the service, the spirit and eloquence of the Worship Leader and Missionary Society First Vice President, Sister Damita Martin, set the tone along with inspirational music by the choir.

Sister Reid’s topic for the morning was “A Mission from God” in which she shared the long road that missionaries travel, oftentimes to remote regions of the world doing good works and doing the will of God. She added that whether the missionary journey is at home or abroad, the mission work becomes more challenging each year.

“What is a missionary?” Sister Reid asked. She went on to explain, “A missionary is one who is sent to propagate religion. Every heart with Christ is a missionary. All that we do must honor, glorify and magnify God. We must realize that it’s not about us individually nor collectively, but it means being obedient to God and trusting God every step of the way.”

“Yes, the journey is tough, and yes, there is a high cost of being a missionary, but we have a duty to fulfill and that is to spread the gospel of Jesus Christ. We can not spell gospel without spelling “Go”. We must go beyond the four walls of the church to let the world know that Jesus will forgive sins and save souls. A true missionary is one who takes the whole gospel to the whole world. In a sense, every church member should be a missionary. Many of us will never reach a foreign mission field on our feet, but we can reach foreign missions on our knees. Our efforts must be 100% and we must be committed to serve.”

Sister Reid went on to say the biblical authority for missions is seen in the Bible when Abraham was blessed and that through him and his descendants, all the people of the world would be blessed. The Bible also says in Matthew 28:18-20 that the disciples were to go to “the entire world.” They were missionaries and we are encouraged to be missionaries.

We are encouraged to plant churches. We must go to people outside our culture, as Christ commanded in the great commission. Sister Reid told the congregation that Christian missions is any activity in which Christians are involved for world evangelism, ministering the hope of Jesus and sharing our belief to glorify God. A Christian mission is not only to promote theological doctrine, but economic development, education and healthcare.

Foreign missionaries have accepted the call to serve and we should understand our role as missionary servants of God. Everywhere we go, we should be on a mission from God, whether in Memphis, Tennessee or thousands of miles away. We have a task to keep a sweet and honest spirit. We can’t expect others to do what we are not prepared to do ourselves. We must be accountable for our decisions and actions; we should know what we do and why we do it. Missionaries must have a vision, live close to the Lord, and seek God’s blessings and his guidance.

The life of Jesus was a mission. The mission for Jesus included enduring great pain and suffering. His prayer was, “Your will not mine.”

Sister Reid explained that on this missionary journey, we will encounter many obstacles, but we can not become blinded to our true mission. We must be obedient and forgive one another, just as the Father forgave us. We cannot focus on the wrong, you must pray for those that misuse and abuse you, and you must forgive them.”

We cannot substitute the truth about Jesus with a fantasy of our own imagination, so people will believe or support our self-centered life styles. God will not tolerate sin or condone willful rebellion. God wants to remove the sin and restore the sinner, and he is able to do so, as long as we are not stubborn and reject the truth.

Sister Reid told us, “As missionaries we have done a great work here at St. James, but now it’s time for us to focus on our true mission. A mission of spreading the good news of Jesus, so people’s sins might be forgiven. We don’t have the power to forgive sin, (only God has the power) but Jesus gave us the privilege of telling new believers that their sins have been forgiven because they have accepted his message.”

As a part of the Missionary Day celebration, the women in the congregation were asked to wear hats. Sister Reid explained the significance of the hat.

She explained, “I studied the hat and I realized that a hat is an article offering something to everyone with a head. It can be used in all climates. It comes in all shapes and sizes; and it protects us. You see in the spring and summer it keeps us cool and serves as a barrier from the harmful sun rays. In the fall and winter it keeps us warm from the chill and bitter cold. Then, I looked at Jesus, and realized as Jesus was on his missionary journey, he ‘wore many hats.’”

-- You see, He wore the hat of a physician, when he healed the sick.
-- He wore the hat of a miracle worker, when he turned the water into wine.
-- He wore the hat of a lawyer, in our times of trouble.
-- He wore the hat of a comforter, in our times of loneliness.
-- He wore the hat of a forgiver, when he forgave us of our sins.
-- He wore the hat of a Savior, when he laid down his life to save us.

And, as I look at us today, on this Missionary Sunday, I realize that we also wear many hats along this journey.

-- We wear the hat of commitment when we support our church and all its obligations.

-- We wear the hat of teacher, when we reach out to others to tell them about Jesus and share God’s word, letting them know of the dangers and consequences of their actions.

-- We wear the hat of servant when we go to the hospitals, prisons and orphanages to bring joy into the hearts of those suffering.
-- We wear the hat of provider when we gather clothing and food for the naked and the hungry.

In closing, “I’ve finally connected the two -- our missionary journey and hats as I’ve witnessed the Parade of Hats by the ladies of the congregation. I want to say to you today, whatever your role in life may be, don’t forget your true mission from God. And I would like to use the letters in these two short words, “HAT’S OFF” and tell you a few things to help you on your missionary journey. I say to you my fellow missionaries, my hat is off to you, because you held on in the good times as well as the bad times and you did not turn back on your mission from God. My hat is off to you for accepting the call of true missions work, watching all things, enduring affliction, and exemplifying full proof of your ministry to be a propagator of religion. My hat is off to you for doing a great mission work for the Lord.”

Submitted by: Beverly T. GoinesPublic Relations Director,
St. James AME Church, MemphisThe Rev. Walter Winstead Reid Jr., Pastor

16. COMMENTARY: CALL TO MINISTRY CARRIES HIGH STANDARD:

A UMNS Commentary By James Lane*

God calls all people to ministry. As each one of us surrenders ourselves to serving God, a call is placed upon us. It is a lifelong call that you never retire from. From our day of surrender and resurrection on, we are God agents.

From the beginning of the Christian movement, the church has set aside, anointed and appointed people for leadership in this community of those called by God.

When a person responds to a calling by God to full-time ministry, he or she begins a lifelong struggle with that calling. Some respond right away, others deny the call, while still others delay their response.
Many have witnessed the "Hound of Heaven" pursuing them, nipping at their heels, until they completely surrender and respond to that "still, small voice."

The United Methodist Church has established rules and built walls, seemingly insurmountable at times, over which those responding to a call must climb.

The United Methodist Church, rightfully so, I think, has established rules and expectations of those who present themselves for certification and ordination by the church. Some would deem it unfair, indeed, to set special rules and expectations, for these whom we put on this pedestal of ministry.

Rules like "celibacy in singleness and fidelity in marriage" might seem archaic and capricious to some. We deny ordination and appointment to practicing homosexuals. Some say that such an attitude is "gay bashing."

What, indeed, is right and proper for the church to declare as an acceptable lifestyle while serving under ordination and appointment in our church? Well, with the calling come some very serious responsibilities. The primary responsibility is to live a life exemplary of the gospel of Jesus Christ before all the people. Like it or not, the pastor is always on a pedestal before the people.

We have all watched in horror as people have failed in this primary responsibility. Sexual liaisons within the community and congregation stun us to the core. We at the church are embarrassed and ashamed. We have seen infidelity to the marriage, addiction to drugs and alcohol and disregard of the covenant with the church rip at our very being as a community of faith.

Think of it as a pebble dropped into a lake. First, there is just the hole where the pebble goes in, and everything is OK. And then, you see one ripple and then another, and another, and on and on it goes. Friends, those ripples are people's lives, now wrecked by the ripples of your pebble. One person after another is affected by the pebble that fell from the pedestal of trust and leadership. The ripples go on forever!

To those on the pedestal of leadership: Everyone is watching and observing. Babies, children, young, old - everyone! And they are watching 24/7/365. There are no off days when you assume the pedestal of leadership.

If un-Christian behavior is evident in the life of the pastor, it sends ripples all across the congregation and community. Unfortunately, you cannot reach down and pull the pebble back.

If we truly love our brothers and sisters in Christ, we will not do anything that will cause them to fall away from the faith. Leadership in the church demands such a lifestyle. Once you have been called out and set aside by the church and assumed the pedestal of leadership, hold tight to the pebble and do not drop it!

Can we trust you to do that?

*Lane, of Sherwood, Ark., is manager of the Arkansas United Methodist Official E-mail Network.

Used with permission of the United Methodist News Service

17. COLE TO LEAVE BENNETT COLLEGE NEXT SUMMER:

A UMNS Report By Linda Green*

Since Johnnetta Cole took the responsibility of revitalizing Bennett College for Women four years ago, the school has been successful in increasing its fiscal and physical operations and instituting new and innovative academic programs.

During a July 11 press conference, Cole recapped the "marvelous trajectory that is propelling us toward unquestionable excellence" and also indicated plans to step down as the 14th president next June.

The accomplishments the historically-black college in Greensboro, N.C. has garnered enables its students to receive an education that prepares them to live productive lives that not only involve professional success, but also meaningful service to others, she said.
When Cole, 69, took office at the United Methodist-related institution, her goals included building the endowment, which now stands at $10 million, improving student academic prowess, and increasing alumni giving and other revenue streams. Since those goals have been primarily met, she noted, the time is right to say goodbye.

"Are we done? Of course not. Great work is never done. But, I am proud to say that over these past four years, we have done some mighty good work in the interest of revitalizing Bennett College for Women," Cole said in remarks on the state of the college.

"Indeed, in terms of the assignment that I was given when I arrived at Bennett in 2004, I feel that we can say: mission accomplished; and therefore, I can indeed honor the time schedule I laid out when I arrived at Bennett … I will complete five years in the presidency and leave Bennett in June, 2007."

Cole attributed the "phenomenal success" the school has achieved, to faith, hard work, and the support of many people. But, she also said, there is "some serious work to complete."

She called on alumni, friends and supporters of the college to assist renowned author and poet Maya Angelou and former Senator Bob Dole, a United Methodist, in helping the institution reach its $50 million campaign goal. The campaign will impact student scholarships, faculty recruitment and development.

"It is essential that we reach this goal so that Bennett College for Women can be positioned to sustain the tremendous gains we have made over these past few years," Cole said.

Last year, a gala headed by Dole and former President Bill Clinton gave teeth to the capital campaign launched in 2003. This fall, Oprah Winfrey will headline a benefit gala in support of the "Revitalizing Bennett Campaign." Tickets and sponsorship information will be available after Aug. 1 by calling the college's Office of Institutional Advancement at (336) 370-9691 or by e-mailing aaffleck@bennett.edu.

Bennett also is financially supported by the denomination's Black College Fund, which marshals support for the programs and ministries of the 11 historically black United Methodist colleges and universities. Bennett College is one of four United Methodist-related colleges for women.

After stepping down as president, Cole will continue her association with the college as the chairwoman of the board of the three-year old Johnnetta B. Cole Global Diversity and Inclusion Institute.

The institute sponsors a nationally recognized annual chief diversity officers' forum which brings officers, managers and executives from around the country to Greensboro to discuss key issues and best practices for managing diversity and inclusion in the workplace and the world.

Another program is the Power Girls Summer Leadership Institute which focuses on developing leadership skills, character building and personal development for girls aged 14 to 17 years.
*Green is a United Methodist News Service news writer based in Nashville, Tenn.

News media contact: Linda Green, (615) 742-5470 or newsdesk@umcom.org.

Reprinted by permission of United Methodist News Service

18. CLERGY FAMILY CONGRATULATORY NOTICE:

Congratulations are extended to Mr. Emridge Jones, III a summer graduate of Florida Memorial College, Miami, Florida where he received his B. S. degree in Business Administration. He is the son of Linda Houston Jones and the late Mr. Emridge Jones, Jr., of the 11th Episcopal District and the grandson of the late Presiding Elder O. H. Houston of the 11th Episcopal District who served as chief marshal the Council of Bishops and the grandson of the late Mr. Emridge Jones, Sr., and the late Mrs. Norma B. Jones who was a member of Greater Institutional A.M.E. Church, Chicago, Illinois.

Congratulatory email messages can be sent to: jone1044@bellsouth.net

19. CLERGY FAMILY CONGRATULATORY NOTICE:

Congratulations are extended to the Reverend Dr. Kyle "K. C." Gibson, pastor of Bethel A.M. E. Church, Vero Beach, Florida in earning the D.Min. Degree. He earned his D.Min in 2006 from the Florida Center for Theological Studies, Miami, Florida; his dissertation was entitled "Establishing the Sons of Allen in the local Church.” Dr. Gibson is presently attending Nova Southern University, Ft. Lauderdale, Florida where he is pursuing a second doctoral degree. He is the Editor of the National Alumni Association Newsletter for Turner Theological Seminary, Atlanta, Georgia and serves as the Historian for Turner's National Alumni Association.

He is married to Mrs. Tamara White Gibson and the proud son of Ms. Joan McFadden Gibson, Ft. Lauderdale, Florida and Mr. George and Blondevina Gibson, Tallahassee, Florida.

Congratulations may be extended to Dr. Gibson by emailing; KCIN2008@aol.com

20. Congratulations:
Congratulatory Messages/Praise Reports are posted by the Clergy Family Information Center on Friday of each week. Clergy Family Births, Graduations, Weddings and Wedding Anniversaries (25th, 30th, 40th, 50th, 60th, 75th)

21. CONGRATULATIONS FROM THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER:

The Christian Recorder staff wishes to extend our congratulatory message to all of those celebrating the blessings of God.

22. THE PASTOR’S CORNER - WHAT HAPPENS WHEN WE PRAY?

*The Reverend James Moody

This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us. And if we know that He hears us – whatever we ask – we know that we have what we asked of Him. (I John 5: 14-15)

If prayer is simply asking, seeking and knocking, how can I pray so I can be certain that God hears me and will grant my request? The Apostle John gives us a clear and simple solution – “Ask…according to His will, He hears us; [and] we know that we have what we asked of Him.”

Hebrews 11: 1 defines faith as being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see. So the “Prayer of Faith” is praying for that which one does not yet have with certainty or confidence that one will receive it. This requires praying the will of God regarding our needs or circumstances. How do I know what God’s will is? Look to God’s word. Yes! Pray the Scriptures! Pray the word or God regarding the need or petition.

Praying God’s word means I can pray God’s promise regarding my specific petition. By looking up the Scriptures God has given regarding my need, I can know God’s promises for my life. For example, in times of anxiety I could look to Philippians 4: 6-7 – Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Many Bibles contain a section outlining Scripture references to apply when facing certain prayer needs. One of the cleverest lists I’ve seen is one titled “Emergency Phone Numbers” from the booklet “Bible Questions Answered,” United Prison Ministries Int’l, Verbena, Alabama (http://www.upmi.org/). Another fantastic resource for knowing God’s word regarding a need is “The Bible Promise Book,” Barbour Publishing, Inc. Uhrichsville, Ohio, (http://www.barbourbooks.com/) or (http://www.christianbook.com/).

Praying a prayer of faith that applies the word of God appropriates the promises of God to one’s circumstances by making God’s word personal. Praying the word:

a. Seeks guidance from God, the Holy Spirit in revealing God’s will through Scripture.

b. Avoids two prayer killers

i. Not recognizing the sovereignty of God (Matthew 6:9-10)

ii. Asking selfishly (James 4: 3)

c. Places one’s self or those being prayed for into the passage of Scripture.

d. Eliminates the need to say, “If it be your will?” We recognize God’s will.

e. Thanks God for what He has done with certainty that He will fulfill His will.

Jesus tells us in Matthew 21: 21-22 “if [we] have faith and do not doubt… [we] can do.” Believing is doing. While conducting a retreat for young adults we prayed for God’s protection as we traveled home. To illustrate the point of acting on our prayers of faith, I asked what would happen if I never left my seat. After all, I believed God for traveling grace. Shouldn’t God get me home? The group told me if I didn’t get up and get in my car, choosing to stay in my seat, I would simply be in the meeting hall the next morning and miss conducting services a with the Quinn congregation. As I pressed them regarding the matter, they advised that believing God for safe journey meant I had to trust God and get up a do the traveling. God wouldn’t do the traveling for me. After we pray a prayer of faith, we must be prepared to act as God directs us to. Our willingness to act demonstrates our faith in God fulfilling His promise. Our actions are to be consistent with already having physically received the promise that God has granted spiritually. Acting on our prayers of faith demonstrates submission to the move of the Holy Spirit’s command regarding our situation and expresses our faith in God’s answer to our prayer.

So, how can I pray so I can be certain that God hears me and will grant my request? Pray a prayer of faith. Look to God’s word. Then, trust God, acting on what He tells me to do.

* The Reverend James M. Moody, Sr.
Quinn Chapel, Chicago