THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER ONLINE ENGLISH EDITION (8/9/06)

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

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3. RECEPTION FOR ASTRONAUT STEPHANIE WILSON:

Submitted by the Rev W. C. Ervin iii

The Rev. Brenda Payne, Pastor-Reedy Chapel AMEC, Galveston, Texas extends and invitation for everyone to share in a celebration of Astronaut Stephanie Wilson.

Reedy Chapel African Methodist Episcopal Church, Galveston, Texas, invites you to a celebration to welcome back, and to thank our AME Astronaut, Mission Specialist STS 121 Stephanie D. Wilson for the successful flight and return of Discovery, launched on our nation's birthday.

We honor Stephanie and the Discovery crew who spent 13 days in space travel, including connection with the International Space Station.

The service of recognition is free to the public, and will be held at Reedy Chapel A.M.E. Church, 2013 Broadway, Galveston, Texas at 4:30 P.M. on Saturday, August 26, 2006. A refreshment reception will be immediately following the celebration at Old Central Cultural Center.

4. THE FIRST ANNUAL 13TH EPISCOPAL DISTRICT WOMEN IN MINISTRY RETREAT:

The 1st Annual 13th Episcopal District Women in Ministry Retreat will be held August 11-12, 2006 at Scarritt-Bennett Retreat Center on the campus of Vanderbilt University in Nashville, TN. The retreat is open to all women, regardless of denomination, who serve in ministry (preaching, pastoral, missionary, Church School, Christian Education, dance ministry, music ministry, helps ministry, administration, lay speakers, exhorters, evangelists, etc.).

Retreat registration is $150 and includes lodging and three meals. For those not requiring overnight accommodations, day registration is $75. A retreat brochure can be downloaded on the 13th District website at www.13thame.com.

Retreat presenters/preachers include Bishop Vashti Murphy McKenzie, Rev. Dr. Renita Weems, Rev. Dr. Gina Stewart and Rev. Dr. Valerie Bridgeman Davis.

The opening and closing worship services are free and open to the public, so if it is not yours, to attend the entire retreat, please feel free to join the retreat participants and presenters in worship at 7:30 P.M. on Friday, August 11, 2006 and/or 3:30 P.M. on Saturday, August 12, 2006. All worship services will be held in the Harambee Auditorium at Scarritt-Bennet Center.

Retreat registration can be completed on line at www.13thame.com, or by contact your conference Women In Ministry Coordinator or by calling the 13th District Office at 615-242-6814.

Please share this information with those women who serve in ministry in your congregation.

5. NOT YOUR MOMMA’S CHURCH SCHOOL CONVENTION:
CAMDEN-TRENTON DISTRICT PRESENTS A “BLUEPRINT FOR BUILDING A FAMILY”:

*By Leslie Tyler

Picture this: traditional AME worship services and church school lessons infused with modern day gospel hip hop… Spirit-filled rap lyrics performed by two Ex-Los Angeles street gang rivals who find common-ground, and a common denominator in Christ Jesus… A local pastor who, in the middle of his sermon, breaks out singing a Holy Ghost inspired version of the The Temptations’ Grammy Award winning hit “Papa Was a Rollin Stone” (the entire congregation, by the way, joins in). Then, a live street drama unfolds right in the middle of the sanctuary in which a young thug attempts to rob an “old school” dude of his ATM card with a loaded weapon. The gun is a fake, but the message of redemption is real for more than 200 Church School Convention goers from the Camden-Trenton, New Jersey Districts. Under the leadership of Presiding Elder Robert C. Wade and District Consultant Mrs. Prudence Hope Wade, members from 24 churches convened at Historical Macedonia AMEC in Camden, NJ on June 16 and 17 for “Blueprints for Building a Family,” a first of its kind retreat that was truly ‘not your momma’s church school convention.’ “Kudos to Pastor & Mrs. Tyler and to the Macedonia Church Family for an exceptional job in hosting and in providing a remarkable and memorable learning experience,” said Presiding Elder Wade.

There was nearly a full 24 hours of church school teachings that were both spiritual and relevant. In recent weeks, there had been an increase in incidents of gun violence, drug overdoses, and gang activity in both cities and surrounding suburbs. Organizers felt it was important to address the needs of the community, as well as uplift the spirit of “the regulars.” In addressing those needs, the host pastor Rev. Dr. Mark Kelly Tyler emphasized just how important it is to speak to people in a language they understand. “The use of gospel hip hop or gospel street drama is nothing more than a modern day parable,” says Rev. Dr. Tyler. “Jesus addressed the crowds. He made difficult concepts easy to understand by using illustrations that His hearers could easily relate to in their own lives.”

The “Friday Night Alive” free outdoor gospel hip hop concert featured South Jersey’s own “God’s Gang” and “Psalm 7,” a rap duo made up of two former members of the notorious Los Angeles street gangs, the “Crips” and the “Bloods.” In the late 80’s, Lawrence Stone was a member of the Los Angeles “Bloods” and Rev. Marlon Henderson was a member of the Los Angeles “Crips.” Now some 20 years later, still clad in their blue and red colors, the two testified through rap lyrics about where they’ve been, what they’ve seen, and how they beat the odds and turned their lives around. Both men turned away from a life filled with drug dealing, gang banging, and even serving time in prison. They now serve the Lord with a spirit filled message of hope delivered in a creative method that young people listen to and understand. “If one could have seen the eyes of the children as they clapped and swayed to the music in Macedonia’s Church yard under the stars,” said Mrs. Prudence Hope Wade. Rev. J. Stanley Justice, Pastor of Mt. Zion AMEC in Trenton said this year’s convention took on an entire new paradigm, catering directly to the church school convention’s target audience of children, youth, and young adults. “The Christian rappers that were comprised of young adult males gave a Christian message in a very unique and extraordinary way,” said Rev. Justice. “It was simply great!!!”

The gospel rap concert was preceded by a powerful opening night worship service featuring the Camden-Trenton District Choir led by Evangelist Iris Watters. The night also featured a hip hop dance routine by the Camden-Trenton District Praise Dancers under the direction of Sister Raquel Hill. Reverend Archie Cummings (formerly) of Union AMEC in Allentown, NJ delivered the sermon that night setting the stage for the outdoor concert.

As if Friday wasn’t enough, Saturday’s classes convened in the nearby San Miguel Schoolhouse. Students ages 1 and over participated in interactive church school lessons while the pastors received a lesson on family building from Rev. Won Kyu Rim from the New Jersey Family Policy Council.

After ‘going to school’, attendees sat on the edge of their seats as the local street drama ministry troupe “Salt World” performed. The actors were led by Phillip Brown, a former writer for the popular TV show, “That’s So Raven.” “Salt World” unleashed a powerful 30 minute drama in which a young man goes from trying to rob an older man at gun point, to putting down his (toy) weapon and picking up the bible. The dynamic dialogue and Lauren Hill-like solo performances were “in your face” and had a lasting impression on the hearts and souls of all in attendance. “My heart palpitated and tears flowed from my wife’s eyes as the drama unfolded,” said Presiding Elder Wade. “This “guerilla” style performance touched our emotions in a manner we shall not soon forget,” he added. “The intensity of their performance intensified and spurred the Camden-Trenton District to find new and innovative ways to indeed make a difference!” Fourteen year old Angeline Durham will be a sophomore at Camden’s School of Creative and Performing Arts High School. She says “the skit” was the most memorable part of the weekend. “It was excellent…. Inspiring… showed how we talk and how we think,” she says. “That could really happen! It showed people like us can be saved just sitting out on the street.”

Rev. Maurice Barnes, Pastor of Grace AMEC in Crosswicks, NJ closed out the convention with an hour-of-power service in which he literally broke out singing “Papa Was a Rolling Stone” in the middle of his sermon. The worship service was followed by an old fashioned backyard cookout. “We had something for everybody,” said Camden-Trenton District Church School Superintendent Rev. Terrel Persons. “(It) was a success and it accomplished our mission to educate, equip and empower our people.” I guess you could say, in less than two days, the Camden-Trenton district truly mapped out the ‘blueprint for building a family.’

*Leslie Tyler is the wife of the Rev. Dr. Mark Tyler, pastor of Historic Macedonia AME Church in Camden, NJ

6. SEVENTH EPISCOPAL DISTRICT SEMINARY GRADUATES:

The Rev. Sherry Highbaugh Smith - Columbia International University - Seminary, Columbia, South Carolina

The Rev. Rhudene Toomer - Erskine Theological Seminary, Due West, South Carolina

The Rev. Tobie Pollock - Columbia International University - Seminary, Columbia, South Carolina

7. THE CHAPLAINS’ CORNER –AME CHAPLAIN SELECTED FOR PROMOTION:

Chaplain Maurice Buford, AME Itinerant Elder, who is currently assigned to the Naval Station in Rota Spain was selected for promotion to Lieutenant Commander (0-4) - (this is equivalent to a Major in the Army and Air Force).

8. FLORIDA CONFERENCE NATIVE SON TO PREACH ANNUAL SERMON:

*By: Rev. Edrena Houston Brown, MACE
Christian Recorder, Staff Writer

The Rev. Charles A. Morris, a native of Tallahassee,, Florida grew up on the hills surrounding Florida A. and M. University, Tallahassee, Florida where he is appreciative for his spiritual and educational training as a child. He received his formative years of training in Tallahassee and graduated from Florida A&M University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Political Science. He later matriculated at Florida State University and earned a Master of Public Administration degree. After God's call to enter ministry he relocated to Atlanta, Georgia and entered the Turner Theological Seminary at the Interdenominational Theological Center and graduated with a Master of Divinity degree in 1991 and was awarded the Benjamin E. Mayes Fellowship and served as President of the Student Government Ministry at I.T.C., Atlanta, Georgia.

Pastor Morris will be the Preacher of the hour for the Florida Conference opening Worship Service on Tuesday, August 29, 2006 at 7:00 p.m., at the site of Bethel A.M.E. Church, Tallahassee, Florida. The Rev. Lee Plummer and the Saint James A.M.E. Church, Quincy, Florida is the Host Pastor. The Illustrious Bishop McKinley Young is the Presiding Prelate of the Eleventh Episcopal District comprising Florida and the Bahamas Island.

Rev. Morris has been blessed with many gifts and graces and is known among his colleagues as a humble servant for the Lord. Morris, presently serves as Pastor of Anderson Chapel A.M.E. Church, where he has for actively Eight years under his administration has led the church to unlimited ministries in serving the community. Among his many gifts and graces; he is a Preacher, Bible Teacher, and Christian Educator where he served as the Director of Christian Education for the Eleventh Episcopal District from 1999-2004, Certified Pastoral Counselor, Certified U.S.G.A. Performance Auditor and travels extensively abroad and in the United States as a Workshop and Seminar Facilitator for churches and organizations.

He was awarded by the Tallahassee District as Pastor of the Year in 1999, Man of the Year awarded by the Tallahassee Alumni Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc., and serves on the Board of Directors for the Ecumenical ministerial Alliance of Florida.

The Reverend Charles A. Morris is the son of Mrs. Ruth Morris Jackson, Tallahassee, Florida. The community is cordially invited to attend.

*The Rev. Edrena Houston Brown, MACE, is a Staff Writer for The Christian Recorder

9. THE MUSIC CORNER - CHOIR STAND!

*Mark Brandon

Selecting the Right Music

“When I say Jesus you say Christ, Jesus - Christ! Jesus…” is a popular hip hop based call and response refrain that has often been heard as part of contemporary music worship. The leader encourages the “followship” in a communion of boisterous, adoration, praise and assurance. Many voices speaking as one is the extroverted and rhythmic implication. With the organist, keyboardist, and drummer kicking out a hot groove underneath this chant, it seems obvious at these moments that everybody is on board with this “Jesus thing”— or am I just hoping that they are?

The popular hymn “Blessed Assurance.” has been surely sung by millions from every walk of life over the years. Playing as a musician on the choir stand, I have often wished that I could, if only for a moment, climb into the minds of worshippers during the singing of that song. When the melody hits the chorus, “This is my story, this is my song, praising my Savior all day long …” I feel like the message doesn’t just belong to the songwriters Fannie Crosby and Phoebe Knapp. This is my story! I can see on the faces of many in the congregation that this is their story too. This is the story of the people I’m worshipping with. Or am I just hoping that it is?

As a music worship leader I’ve often silently asked myself if I have prepared choirs, or soloists or even musical programs with appropriate songs that meet the singers and musicians’ lives in that moment of service. I have also sought within whether particular songs or styles would be the most effective vehicle to speak into the lives of the congregation. In the perfect ministry of a song, the singer or musician’s life embodies the words and spiritual essence of that song. Wrapping his or herself around the message and powered by the Holy Spirit the singer/musician’s life and performance become one. His or her song becomes our story.

This specific notion of essential and spiritual honesty is an absolute in the worship service. Every song is like a mirror that we hold high during the service; singing the reflection of our lives, both to ourselves and to each other. Holding up the right mirrors, setting the right musical tone, the right atmosphere, and flavoring the worship appropriately is so vital to the success of the service. Let’s be real about this; sung worship doesn’t just prime the pump in our churches. Often for many, including visitors to a service, it is the pump. Choosing the right musical vehicles and streams is therefore not a superficial or trivial matter. A single tune holds the power to begin, strengthen, or… derail a person’s faith walk.

In future articles we will discuss the many facets of effective music ministry, but all strategies begin first and foremost with the centrality of prayer. Prayer for a right mind and heart of discipleship, ministry and evangelism; prayer for clarity in understanding the spiritual/musical needs of the congregation; prayer and study to gain excellence and enlargement of both skills and prospective; and most of all, prayer that during the course of service and in the course of all things, His will be done.

If we are prayerfully diligent in our music ministry, we can grow in the confidence that as singers, musicians, directors, congregants, and clergy we will sing as one in the spirit All can honestly personalize when they sing “this is my story, this is my song,” and when we raise voices in the collective chant, “when I say Jesus, you say Christ… Jesus- Christ! Jesus…”

* Mark Brandon has been a professor of music at Ramapo College of New Jersey for the past 14 years.

The author of the article welcomes your comments. Send e-mail to: mbrandon3@earthlink.net

Editor’s Note: Mark Brandon is currently working on a book Choir Stand, which centers on issues surrounding the ministry of music in the contemporary church. Professor Brandon is the coordinator of music for the 42 churches of the New Jersey conference of the AME Zion Church and the director of music in his local church for the past 22 years. Starting as a teen director of his home church's youth choir, he went on to become pianist and musical director for such artists as Ben E. King, The Drifters, Average White Band, and the Supremes. As a solo artist, he has toured worldwide including appearances as the opening act to comedienne Joan Rivers and to country artist Clint Black. He was a musical arranger for BBC television in England and the composer/producer of many television and radio commercials aired internationally. He acted in the role of the pianist in the film "She Devil" and composed the soundtrack to the PBS documentary, "Brother Men." With all those experiences he says that professional secular accomplishments are great, but his heart and focus lay in sacred musical worship, which he states is, "the air that I breathe!"

Future Articles will focus upon Selecting the Right Music, Stuck in a Musical Rut, Clergy vs. Musicians: Round 1, Hymns for HIM, Stop Playing: Do You know What You're Singing, Musical Traditions in the Local Church, Musical Hermeneutics, Tuning Up, And If I Die Before I Wake…, and A Gospel Pearl: Holy Hip Hop.

10. GOSPEL ARTIST JAMES BIGNON CAPTURES AUDIENCE:

By: Delanda S. Johnson, Guest Writer

On Saturday, July 29, Gospel Recording Artist James Bignon captured a standing room only congregation at Allen Chapel AME Church in Athens, Texas with his powerful and emotional traditional gospel music.

Bignon who was in Athens for a two and a half day gospel music workshop concluded with songs of glory and praise to the Lord with the help of his workshop choir members.
Bignon stated, “I have felt at home here in the City of Athens. Throughout my travel across the United States and other countries, this is first time that I have seen City officials (Mayor Daniel/Athens & Mayor Isaacson/Malakoff) who were here in person and stay until the end of program.”

Bignon stressed that being a good choir member means to be dedicated, dependable, eager to learn, be a leader in worship, a team member, keep God first, and be armed for battle. “You should be a blessing and not a nightmare to your choir. Remember it’s not about you, but it’s about GOD,” said Bignon.

Allen Chapel and Johnson Chapel wish to thank all of its individual sponsors and churches who supported the program.

11. THE GLOBAL CORNER - CONNECTIONAL APPEAL:

*The Rev. Willem Simon Hanse


The joy of serving the Lord Jesus is always our source of strength, and we have the honour to greet you with Jesus’ joy.

The St. James AME Church in the Namibia Annual Conference of the 15th Episcopal District under the leadership of Bishop Samuel L Green Sr is proud to announce that our St. James Trust, a welfare organ of our local church, has started a Soup Kitchen serving pensioners, orphans and vulnerable children in our town of Mariental.

And we stand in need of your financial contributions, how big or small, to help supplement the resources raised locally by our members. The St. James AME Church serve the most needy people of this town in the residential area known as Aimablaagte, and we want you to know that your contribution will add a smile to a lot of poor people and inner strength to many hungry and destitute children.

Please consider prayerfully a financial contribution to the St. James AME Church.

In the Master’s Service

*The Rev. Willem Simon Hanse
St. James AME Church
P O Box 78
Mariental
Republic of Namibia

12. HEALTH SYMPOSIUM ON CARDIOVASCULAR DISEASES AND AFRICAN AMERICANS:

The overall life expectancy of African Americans continues to remain the lowest amongst the other sectors in the United States. With one third of annual deaths of African-Americans due to cardiovascular diseases, it can be concluded that the state of health for this specific group is particularly precarious. In a national effort to address health issues concerning the heart among African Americans, the African Methodist Episcopal Church Service and Development Agency (AME-SADA) has launched a domestic health initiative to help foster a better understanding of the serious issues involved with cardiovascular diseases among this group.

Starting with a Health Symposium at the Marriott Crystal City Hotel on Thursday, September 21, 2006, AME-SADA, in partnership with the AME Church (AMEC) Second District Religious Educational and Charitable Development Projects, Inc. (R.E.D.), and the Second Episcopal District Health Commission will initiate a national project targeted to help promote awareness of the disease and thus reduce the mortality rates among black communities across America. “Our Cardiovascular Diseases and African American health initiative is open to the general public and designed to help people at risk. Our objectives with this symposium is to encourage African Americans to better monitor and control their cholesterol levels; consume less saturated fats; reduce their sodium intake; control their weight and adopt exercise programs; monitor and control hypertension and diabetes; decrease alcohol consumption; and eliminate tobacco use,” says AME-SADA Health Program Officer, Dr. Mitsue Colin. “According to statistics compiled by the American Heart Association, the greatest killer today among African Americans is cardiovascular disease (CVD). Since the impact of this disease is so vastly underestimated by the general public, we urge AME Church members and the public at large to participate at the launching of AME-SADA’s first domestic health initiative,” says Dr. Colin.

AME-SADA, the AMEC’s Second Episcopal District Health Commission and R.E.D.’s pilot programs addressing the issue of cardiovascular diseases start in the Washington, DC area September 21st. During the September 21st Health Symposium, there will be a panel of experts discussion from 9:00 AM to 12 noon with guest speakers and industry representatives discussing topics related to CVD. This will be followed by a session of non-evasive screenings (blood pressure, body fat analysis) from noon to 2:00 PM.

“Our mission is ‘Helping people to help themselves’ and we are proud of the impact we’ve had around the world over the past three decades,” says AME-SADA Executive Director Robert Nicolas, Esq., “We expect this domestic effort to affect the lives of hundreds of thousands of Americans in positive and progressive ways.” “If people want to improve their lifestyle by addressing health issues like obesity, cigarette smoking, high salt intake, improper diets and stress levels, they should definitively participate in this valuable health session,” says Mr. Nicolas.

AME-SADA and R.E.D.’s Cardiovascular Diseases and African Americans Health Initiative is free and open to the public. To meet participants’ needs for individual services and counseling advance reservations are requested. Contact AME-SADA via 202.371.8722 or e-mail to mcolin@ame-sada.org.

Established in 1977, AME-SADA is the humanitarian relief and development unit of the African Methodist Episcopal Church, the oldest organized African American Methodist church in the United States. The AME church has been involved with health, education and community development issues nationally and internationally since its founding in 1787.

Contact: Mitsue Colin
202.371.8722

William Reed
202.547.4125

13. LEE CHAPEL, NASHVILLE ISSUES ANOTHER CALL TO ACTION:

*Paula Y. Holmes Minister of Music

Lee Chapel A.M.E. Church, 1732 Scovel Street - Nashville, TN 37208, telephone 615-320-0260 announces another call to action to provide additional aid for Katrina victims. The Rev. Edward L. Thompson is the pastor of Lee Chapel.

"It's good to meet you all. I thought my Church had forgotten about us."

Those were the words of greeting received from Mrs. Lillian Sams, an 88-year-old resident of Pearlington, Mississippi, and member of Greater Mt. Zion African Methodist Episcopal Church. George Thomas, Walretta Chandler, and I were in Pearlington on Saturday, July 29, 2006 as a part of a site-visit before the Lee Chapel AME Church Mission Chorus and a few supporters go to the area on September 1-3, 2006. The purpose of the trip is to give a benefit concert for the churches in the Mississippi Annual Conference, AMEC, damaged by the 2005 hurricane. Bishop Cornal G. Henning has altered the closing day of the Conference to accommodate the concert at 2 p.m., September 2 in Hattiesburg.

After touring the progress being made to restore our sister church, Greater Mt. Zion, Pastor Frederick L. Fields suggested we go next door to meet one of his members, Mrs. Lillian Sams, the widow of the late Rev. Robert Neville Sams. Rev. Sams pastored Greater Mt. Zion for 42 years -- including the period when it was known as Big Mt. Zion in Logtown, MS, through its relocation to Pearlington, and the name change. The current structure was built during his pastorate. A FEMA-provided trailer is parked on the property where Mrs. Sams' completely uninhabitable red brick home still stands. She is quick to tell you that although it is nearly a year since Hurricane Katrina hit and almost everything was lost, she is blessed to be alive.

She shared a tiny bit of her story of survival -- from being put into a boat at her home by her daughter to go next door to Greater Mt. Zion where persons had taken refuge from the storm; taking with her a young woman and uncle for whom she was caretaker; pushing floating pews out of the way to enter the church; standing on the pulpit to be pushed and pulled into the rafters of the church to avoid drowning; waiting there for four hours before being rescued -- to learning of the death of her nephew from the storm. But she's quick to thank God, for they have been the recipients of the outpouring of great kindness from many strangers from August 2005 to date. Because of it, her knowledge that God is good is affirmed. She talked at length about the many persons who have not only visited but have been of help as efforts are made to restore her home. A recent group of volunteers was composed of women who completed a major portion of the rewiring inside. But there is so much more left to do in her home, in Greater Mt. Zion, and in the immediate neighborhood. According to published reports, only 3 of the 900 homes in Pearlington were left untouched by the hurricane. (See reference 1.) Upon the first aerial view by the nearby John C. Stennis Space Center immediately following the hurricane, it was believed that the whole city was lost as only water could be seen.

Through it all, Mrs. Sams says she has wondered where her beloved AME Church has been. We assured her that the Church has responded from across the Connection with finances, truckloads of goods and with prayer. We told her of our firsthand knowledge of efforts during the several months after the hurricane when offerings were collected, goods bought and delivered, and checks mailed. She nodded, and said "But you're the first AMEs we've seen, other than our Bishop [Henning]. We thought you didn't care." We assured her that the Church still cares, and a few folk will be back and ready to work in any way we can.

Undoubtedly, there are many areas in the Gulf Coast Region that are still in need of help, and we recognize that the rebuilding could take years. For this time, however, we're going to focus on Pearlington, MS, a town of 1,684 according to the 2000 Census, where 17% of the population is black. (See reference 2.) We invite you to assist in the effort. Specifically, we will spend the afternoon on Friday, September 1st in Pearlington delivering goods and performing whatever hands-on tasks are identified by the Pastor and neighborhood residents. On Saturday, September 2, we will give the benefit concert in Hattiesburg; and on Sunday, September 3, worship with St. James AMEC, Picayune, MS before returning to Nashville.

I have prepared a PowerPoint presentation of about 20 pictures that were taken last weekend, but it is too large to attach here. I will make it available on a CD, however, if you wish to view it. A few pictures are pasted below. Be assured, though, that even the full slide show presentation is inadequate to tell the story.

We asked Rev. Fields, Mrs. Sams and a few of the neighbors last Saturday about their current needs. What can we take back on September 1? They assured us that no clothing or food supplies are needed. Below is the beginning of a list:

- Toilet Tissue & Paper Towels (When they go to the Distribution Center, they are given 2 rolls of toilet tissue and 1 roll of paper towels)
- Gift Cards (Lowe's, Home Depot) for building supplies
- Gift Cards (Wal-Mart) for other needs
- Laundry Detergent, Dryer Sheets, liquid Fabric Softener (Greater Mt. Zion has a small shed that has been converted to a Laundromat for the complimentary use by members of the community. The washer and dryer were donated.)
- 45 AME Hymnals (25 for Pearlington and 20 for Picayune)
- Offering Plates
- Communion Kits (the kind with the wafer and grape juice packaged together)
- African-American Heritage Hymnals

Greater Mt. Zion in Pearlington has a congregation of approximately 40 members. Rev. Fields is also the pastor currently at St. James AME Church in Picayune, which was also damaged by the storm. Although they moved back into the church in February, used pews and new ceiling fans and lights were just installed in July. St. James' congregation has approximately 30 members.

There are a few seats left on the 47-passenger bus that we have reserved for this trip. We hope that we can take at least one full bus to let the people in Pearlington and Picayune know that in addition to sending checks and goods, AMEs and some non-AME friends care enough to show up, though it is a year later.

If you know of persons who are semi-skilled in construction work, e.g., putting up sheetrock, hanging doors, installing wiring, etc., their assistance could be most valuable, depending on where they are in their rebuilding process when we return. It is hoped that there will be tasks for the unskilled among us as well. We recognize that this one weekend of efforts will not get them to the end of their rebuilding and restoration, but it is our prayer that we can provide a little help and a little cheer on this leg of their journey.

If you want to make donations toward the purchase of things on the list to be transported on the chartered bus, please make checks payable to Lee Chapel AME Church, indicate 'Mission Trip' on the memo line, and mail by Saturday, August 19 to Lee Chapel AME Church, c/o Paula Y. Holmes, Minister of Music, 1732 Scovel Street, Nashville, TN 37208.

If you desire, items from this list may also be delivered to Lee Chapel on Wednesday, August 30, when we will have a prayer and song service for the Mission trip at 7 p.m.

If you want to make a donation to the benefit concert for all of the affected churches in the area, please make your check payable to the 8th Episcopal District and send it to my attention at Lee Chapel. We will present it to Bishop Henning on your behalf, or you may send it to the District directly.

For more information, you may contact Rev. Frederick L. Fields directly at Greater Mt. Zion, 228-533-9976, fredfields@peoplepc.com; Rev. Edward L. Thompson, Pastor, Lee Chapel Church (615-320-0260), leechurch@bellsouth.net; or me (615-399-8514).

Pray for the people in the Gulf States Region, and please pray for this Mission Trip. We praise God for you. May He continue to bless you mightily!

*Paula Y. Holmes is the Minister of Music at Lee Chapel AME Church

14. UNITED METHODIST COMMISSION CALLS PROFESSOR’S REMARKS ‘INSULTING’:

By United Methodist News Service

A speech given by a professor at a United Methodist-related school was “insulting and denigrating to our African American and Latino brothers and sisters,” said the Rev. Chester Jones, top executive of the United Methodist Commission on Religion and Race.

Richard Lamm, a professor at the University of Denver and former governor of Colorado, spoke during an immigration overpopulation conference in Washington last week. He also made some of the same remarks during an earlier speech on multiculturalism at the Vail Symposium.

In a statement released by the commission, Jones said Lamm argues that African American and Latino “cultures” are the reasons for the “underperformance” of these communities.

“It is appalling to hear or read that a professor in one of our church related institutions believes that the secret to destroy America is through the promotion of an American society that is bilingual-bicultural, multicultural, diverse, and open to differences,” Jones said.

“Reading his speech, I was not sure if Mr. Lamm was being profoundly sarcastic or plain nativist, or simply racist. Clearly he is all of the above; his speech was written in a deeply sarcastic style, in order to show how his nativist and racist perspectives are part of America’s mainstream.”

In the statement, the Commission on Religion and Race calls for the University of Denver to develop a strategy “that counters the racist and nativist views” expressed by Lamm and to “diligently promote with professors and students the real values of a diverse and culturally sensitive society.”

Jim Berscheidt, a university spokesman, said Lamm “has the right to express his point of view, he is a tenured faculty member.” Berscheidt pointed out Lamm’s book, Two Wands, One Nation, was published outside the university.

News media contact: Kathy L. Gilbert, Nashville, Tenn., (615) 742-5470 or newsdesk@umcom.org .

Used with Permission of UMC News Service

15. RESOLUTION IN MEMORY OF THE MINISTRY OF THE REVEREND JOHN PATER ASHWORTH III FROM THE PRESIDING ELDERS’ COUNCIL – 13TH EPISCOPAL DISTRICT:

Whereas – The loving and All Wise God, we love and serve has removed from our midst, our beloved father, brother, and friend in the ministry, the Reverend John Pater Ashworth, III, on Tuesday, August 1, 2006, from the toils and trails of this world to eternal life.

Imagine a world without the beauty and fragrance of flowers, and what would the world be without the beauty and fragrance of Christian lives? Our dear Brother’s life has not been in vain; it has filled its place in the world and will always fill a place in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. We, the Presiding Elders Council, along with the entire 13th Episcopal District feel that his soul is safe with our Heavenly Father to dwell throughout eternity.

Therefore, BE IT RESOLVED – While we mourn him going from us, we are resigned to the Divine Will of the Heavenly Father. We give thanks for his life among us, for his gentle nature, his kindness of heart and his dedication to Kingdom building.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED – That as we informed the ministers of the Kentucky Conference where he served as a presiding elder, from 1990 to 1997, each minister used words to describe his administration; “gentle, kindhearted, truthful, honest, and always looking out for the his own preachers.”

BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED – We, the Presiding Elders Council, extend to Mother JoJo and the family our deepest and sincere sympathy in their loss. May they rely on Him who can and will heal all sorrow and that a copy of this resolution be given to the family and a copy be placed in the office of the 13th Episcopal District.

Respectfully Submitted:

The Reverend Linda F. Thomas-Martin, Louisville-Paducah District – West Kentucky Conference, President of the Presiding Elders Council – 2006

Submitted by the Reverend Ralph Johnson, Presiding Elder of the Lexington District, Kentucky Annual Conference, 13th Episcopal District, AME Church

The Right Reverend Vashti Murphy McKenzie is the Presiding Prelate of the 13th Episcopal District

16. OBITUARY OF THE REVEREND WILLIAM J. BAXTER, PRESIDING ELDER OF THE ORANGEBURG (SOUTH CAROLINA) DISTRICT:

*Submitted by Benjamin Harrison

Willie J. Baxter, Presiding Elder of the Orangeburg district of the African Methodist Episcopal Church in South Carolina, departed this life Thursday, July 27, 2006, at the Medical University of South Carolina in Charleston, after a brief illness. Presiding Elder Baxter lived a full, joyous life exemplified by his devotion to God and his passion to uplift others.

Presiding Elder Baxter was born in St. Matthews, SC, the son of the late Eugene and Beulah Jones Baxter. The late Presiding Elder B. F. Sumpter licensed him to preach at Ebenezer AME Church. Elder Baxter was admitted to the Central Conference and ordained as an Itinerant Deacon and Elder by the late Bishop C. A. Gibbs. Elder Baxter served for over forty years as Pastor and Presiding Elder in the Central Conference. His pastoral appointments include Mount Zion, Emmanuel, and St. Peters AME Churches. Bishop John H. Adams appointed him as Presiding Elder of the Wateree and Orangeburg District. His love for people influenced his venture into several entrepreneurial pursuits.

Presiding Elder Baxter received his formal education in the Calhoun County School System, graduated from O-C Technical College, completed extensive divinity coursework, and held leadership roles within the AME Church’s Orangeburg, Calhoun, and Columbia, South Carolina communities. Elder Baxter served as Chief Marshall for the Connectional Church. He was a member of the General Conference since 1976 and served on the Episcopal Committee, General Conference Commission and Plenary Inaugural Committee. He also served as Treasurer of the Seventh Episcopal District of the AME Church and member of the Board of Trustees for Allen University in Columbia, SC. He was an accomplished pilot and was Chairperson of the Orangeburg Aviation Commission for over ten years.

Presiding Elder Baxter is survived by his loving and devoted wife Sarah; one daughter, Gwen (Eddie) Baxter-Oakley, Ayase, Japan; three sons, Quintin, Maurice, and James all of Orangeburg; two brothers, John W. Baxter and Eugene Baxter of Orangeburg; 2 uncles, Otis Jones of Orangeburg and Willie (Liz) Baxter of Brooklyn, NY; two aunts, Katherine Major and Eula M. Baxter of Orangeburg; five grandchildren--Quamall Mays, Khylona Baxter, Ariana Oakley, Demenia, Kimberly, and Sedaris Mays; seven sisters-in-law and four brothers-in-law--Elease Johnson, Ruby Johnson, Rebecca J. (Edward) Odom, and Anna R. (Curtis) McLendon; Clay (Shirley) Johnson of Orangeburg, SC Allen (Marva) Johnson, Greenville, SC and Charity Baxter of East Orange, NJ; a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other loving relatives, and wonderful friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his sister Margaret B. Stevenson, and one brother Marion Baxter.

*Benjamin Harrison
Public Relations Director 7th District AME Church
Tel 803.935.0500 ext 107
Cell 803.528.7104
Fax 803.935.0830
HarrisonAMEMedia@aol.com

17. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

We regret to inform you of the passing of Mrs. Bernice Hearns. She was the mother of Mrs. Daisy B. Fox, New York Conference Y.P.D. Director. The following information has been provided regarding funeral arrangements.

Funeral Service - Thursday, August 10, 2006

Viewing – 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.
Service – 11:00 a.m.
Bethel A.M.E. Church
1504 Beach 11th Street
Far Rockaway, NY 11696
The Rev. Carl F. Hunter, Pastor
Telephone: 718-327-7043
Fax: 718-327-4540

Condolences may be sent to:
Mrs. Daisy B. Fox
45 Zavatt Street
Inwood, NY 11096
Phone: 516-239-0876
Fax: 516-239-3502

Please remember the family of Mrs. Bernice Hearns in your prayers.

18. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

We regretfully inform you of the passing of Mrs. Gracie Butler, the mother of the Reverend J. H. Butler, the pastor of Greater Bethel A.M.E. Church of the South Atlanta District of the Atlanta North Georgia Conference.

Services Entrusted to:

Willie Watkins Funeral Home
1003 Ralph D. Abernathy Blvd
Atlanta, GA 30310

404-758-1731 - phone
404-758-3246 - fax

Homegoing Service:

Saturday, August 12th at 11:00 a.m.

Sanders Memorial Baptist Church
3077 Clarendale Drive, NW
Atlanta, GA 30327

404-355-7344

Condolences can be forwarded to:

Dr. James H. Butler
2424 Scottridge Drive, NW
Atlanta, GA 30318

404-792-0933 - home

Please keep the Butler family in prayer.

BBCallowaySixth District Headquarters
African Methodist Episcopal Church

19. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT ANNOUNCEMENTS PROVIDED BY:

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

20. 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 (8/9/06)

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. SUBSCRIBE TO THE FOREIGN LANGUAGE EDITION OF THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER:

Those who would like to subscribe to any of the foreign language editions of The Christian Recorder Online may do so by forwarding their names / email addresses and in which language they would like to receive The Christian Recorder Online. The foreign language editions of The Christian Recorder Online will only be forwarded to those who subscribe. The Christian Recorder, in addition to being published in English, is published in Portuguese, Spanish, French, and Dutch.

Subscribers may subscribe by forwarding their names, email addresses and the language in which they would like to receive The Christian Recorder to chsydnor@bellsouth.net

2. SUBSCRIBE TO THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER ONLINE:

Please click on the link below to subscribe to The Christian Recorder Online: Subscribe to The Christian Recorder Online

3. RECEPTION FOR ASTRONAUT STEPHANIE WILSON:

Submitted by the Rev W. C. Ervin iii

The Rev. Brenda Payne, Pastor-Reedy Chapel AMEC, Galveston, Texas extends and invitation for everyone to share in a celebration of Astronaut Stephanie Wilson.

Reedy Chapel African Methodist Episcopal Church, Galveston, Texas, invites you to a celebration to welcome back, and to thank our AME Astronaut, Mission Specialist STS 121 Stephanie D. Wilson for the successful flight and return of Discovery, launched on our nation's birthday.

We honor Stephanie and the Discovery crew who spent 13 days in space travel, including connection with the International Space Station.

The service of recognition is free to the public, and will be held at Reedy Chapel A.M.E. Church, 2013 Broadway, Galveston, Texas at 4:30 P.M. on Saturday, August 26, 2006. A refreshment reception will be immediately following the celebration at Old Central Cultural Center.

4. THE FIRST ANNUAL 13TH EPISCOPAL DISTRICT WOMEN IN MINISTRY RETREAT:

The 1st Annual 13th Episcopal District Women in Ministry Retreat will be held August 11-12, 2006 at Scarritt-Bennett Retreat Center on the campus of Vanderbilt University in Nashville, TN. The retreat is open to all women, regardless of denomination, who serve in ministry (preaching, pastoral, missionary, Church School, Christian Education, dance ministry, music ministry, helps ministry, administration, lay speakers, exhorters, evangelists, etc.).

Retreat registration is $150 and includes lodging and three meals. For those not requiring overnight accommodations, day registration is $75. A retreat brochure can be downloaded on the 13th District website at www.13thame.com.

Retreat presenters/preachers include Bishop Vashti Murphy McKenzie, Rev. Dr. Renita Weems, Rev. Dr. Gina Stewart and Rev. Dr. Valerie Bridgeman Davis.

The opening and closing worship services are free and open to the public, so if it is not yours, to attend the entire retreat, please feel free to join the retreat participants and presenters in worship at 7:30 P.M. on Friday, August 11, 2006 and/or 3:30 P.M. on Saturday, August 12, 2006. All worship services will be held in the Harambee Auditorium at Scarritt-Bennet Center.

Retreat registration can be completed on line at www.13thame.com, or by contact your conference Women In Ministry Coordinator or by calling the 13th District Office at 615-242-6814.

Please share this information with those women who serve in ministry in your congregation.

5. NOT YOUR MOMMA’S CHURCH SCHOOL CONVENTION:
CAMDEN-TRENTON DISTRICT PRESENTS A “BLUEPRINT FOR BUILDING A FAMILY”:

*By Leslie Tyler

Picture this: traditional AME worship services and church school lessons infused with modern day gospel hip hop… Spirit-filled rap lyrics performed by two Ex-Los Angeles street gang rivals who find common-ground, and a common denominator in Christ Jesus… A local pastor who, in the middle of his sermon, breaks out singing a Holy Ghost inspired version of the The Temptations’ Grammy Award winning hit “Papa Was a Rollin Stone” (the entire congregation, by the way, joins in). Then, a live street drama unfolds right in the middle of the sanctuary in which a young thug attempts to rob an “old school” dude of his ATM card with a loaded weapon. The gun is a fake, but the message of redemption is real for more than 200 Church School Convention goers from the Camden-Trenton, New Jersey Districts. Under the leadership of Presiding Elder Robert C. Wade and District Consultant Mrs. Prudence Hope Wade, members from 24 churches convened at Historical Macedonia AMEC in Camden, NJ on June 16 and 17 for “Blueprints for Building a Family,” a first of its kind retreat that was truly ‘not your momma’s church school convention.’ “Kudos to Pastor & Mrs. Tyler and to the Macedonia Church Family for an exceptional job in hosting and in providing a remarkable and memorable learning experience,” said Presiding Elder Wade.

There was nearly a full 24 hours of church school teachings that were both spiritual and relevant. In recent weeks, there had been an increase in incidents of gun violence, drug overdoses, and gang activity in both cities and surrounding suburbs. Organizers felt it was important to address the needs of the community, as well as uplift the spirit of “the regulars.” In addressing those needs, the host pastor Rev. Dr. Mark Kelly Tyler emphasized just how important it is to speak to people in a language they understand. “The use of gospel hip hop or gospel street drama is nothing more than a modern day parable,” says Rev. Dr. Tyler. “Jesus addressed the crowds. He made difficult concepts easy to understand by using illustrations that His hearers could easily relate to in their own lives.”

The “Friday Night Alive” free outdoor gospel hip hop concert featured South Jersey’s own “God’s Gang” and “Psalm 7,” a rap duo made up of two former members of the notorious Los Angeles street gangs, the “Crips” and the “Bloods.” In the late 80’s, Lawrence Stone was a member of the Los Angeles “Bloods” and Rev. Marlon Henderson was a member of the Los Angeles “Crips.” Now some 20 years later, still clad in their blue and red colors, the two testified through rap lyrics about where they’ve been, what they’ve seen, and how they beat the odds and turned their lives around. Both men turned away from a life filled with drug dealing, gang banging, and even serving time in prison. They now serve the Lord with a spirit filled message of hope delivered in a creative method that young people listen to and understand. “If one could have seen the eyes of the children as they clapped and swayed to the music in Macedonia’s Church yard under the stars,” said Mrs. Prudence Hope Wade. Rev. J. Stanley Justice, Pastor of Mt. Zion AMEC in Trenton said this year’s convention took on an entire new paradigm, catering directly to the church school convention’s target audience of children, youth, and young adults. “The Christian rappers that were comprised of young adult males gave a Christian message in a very unique and extraordinary way,” said Rev. Justice. “It was simply great!!!”

The gospel rap concert was preceded by a powerful opening night worship service featuring the Camden-Trenton District Choir led by Evangelist Iris Watters. The night also featured a hip hop dance routine by the Camden-Trenton District Praise Dancers under the direction of Sister Raquel Hill. Reverend Archie Cummings (formerly) of Union AMEC in Allentown, NJ delivered the sermon that night setting the stage for the outdoor concert.

As if Friday wasn’t enough, Saturday’s classes convened in the nearby San Miguel Schoolhouse. Students ages 1 and over participated in interactive church school lessons while the pastors received a lesson on family building from Rev. Won Kyu Rim from the New Jersey Family Policy Council.

After ‘going to school’, attendees sat on the edge of their seats as the local street drama ministry troupe “Salt World” performed. The actors were led by Phillip Brown, a former writer for the popular TV show, “That’s So Raven.” “Salt World” unleashed a powerful 30 minute drama in which a young man goes from trying to rob an older man at gun point, to putting down his (toy) weapon and picking up the bible. The dynamic dialogue and Lauren Hill-like solo performances were “in your face” and had a lasting impression on the hearts and souls of all in attendance. “My heart palpitated and tears flowed from my wife’s eyes as the drama unfolded,” said Presiding Elder Wade. “This “guerilla” style performance touched our emotions in a manner we shall not soon forget,” he added. “The intensity of their performance intensified and spurred the Camden-Trenton District to find new and innovative ways to indeed make a difference!” Fourteen year old Angeline Durham will be a sophomore at Camden’s School of Creative and Performing Arts High School. She says “the skit” was the most memorable part of the weekend. “It was excellent…. Inspiring… showed how we talk and how we think,” she says. “That could really happen! It showed people like us can be saved just sitting out on the street.”

Rev. Maurice Barnes, Pastor of Grace AMEC in Crosswicks, NJ closed out the convention with an hour-of-power service in which he literally broke out singing “Papa Was a Rolling Stone” in the middle of his sermon. The worship service was followed by an old fashioned backyard cookout. “We had something for everybody,” said Camden-Trenton District Church School Superintendent Rev. Terrel Persons. “(It) was a success and it accomplished our mission to educate, equip and empower our people.” I guess you could say, in less than two days, the Camden-Trenton district truly mapped out the ‘blueprint for building a family.’

*Leslie Tyler is the wife of the Rev. Dr. Mark Tyler, pastor of Historic Macedonia AME Church in Camden, NJ

6. SEVENTH EPISCOPAL DISTRICT SEMINARY GRADUATES:

The Rev. Sherry Highbaugh Smith - Columbia International University - Seminary, Columbia, South Carolina

The Rev. Rhudene Toomer - Erskine Theological Seminary, Due West, South Carolina

The Rev. Tobie Pollock - Columbia International University - Seminary, Columbia, South Carolina

7. THE CHAPLAINS’ CORNER – AME CHAPLAIN SELECTED FOR PROMOTION :

Chaplain Maurice Buford, AME Itinerant Elder, who is currently assigned to the Naval Station in Rota Spain was selected for promotion to Lieutenant Commander (0-4) - (this is equivalent to a Major in the Army and Air Force).

8. FLORIDA CONFERENCE NATIVE SON TO PREACH ANNUAL SERMON:

*By: Rev. Edrena Houston Brown, MACE
Christian Recorder, Staff Writer

The Rev. Charles A. Morris, a native of Tallahassee,, Florida grew up on the hills surrounding Florida A. and M. University, Tallahassee, Florida where he is appreciative for his spiritual and educational training as a child. He received his formative years of training in Tallahassee and graduated from Florida A&M University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Political Science. He later matriculated at Florida State University and earned a Master of Public Administration degree. After God's call to enter ministry he relocated to Atlanta, Georgia and entered the Turner Theological Seminary at the Interdenominational Theological Center and graduated with a Master of Divinity degree in 1991 and was awarded the Benjamin E. Mayes Fellowship and served as President of the Student Government Ministry at I.T.C., Atlanta, Georgia.

Pastor Morris will be the Preacher of the hour for the Florida Conference opening Worship Service on Tuesday, August 29, 2006 at 7:00 p.m., at the site of Bethel A.M.E. Church, Tallahassee, Florida. The Rev. Lee Plummer and the Saint James A.M.E. Church, Quincy, Florida is the Host Pastor. The Illustrious Bishop McKinley Young is the Presiding Prelate of the Eleventh Episcopal District comprising Florida and the Bahamas Island.

Rev. Morris has been blessed with many gifts and graces and is known among his colleagues as a humble servant for the Lord. Morris, presently serves as Pastor of Anderson Chapel A.M.E. Church, where he has for actively Eight years under his administration has led the church to unlimited ministries in serving the community. Among his many gifts and graces; he is a Preacher, Bible Teacher, and Christian Educator where he served as the Director of Christian Education for the Eleventh Episcopal District from 1999-2004, Certified Pastoral Counselor, Certified U.S.G.A. Performance Auditor and travels extensively abroad and in the United States as a Workshop and Seminar Facilitator for churches and organizations.

He was awarded by the Tallahassee District as Pastor of the Year in 1999, Man of the Year awarded by the Tallahassee Alumni Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc., and serves on the Board of Directors for the Ecumenical ministerial Alliance of Florida.

The Reverend Charles A. Morris is the son of Mrs. Ruth Morris Jackson, Tallahassee, Florida. The community is cordially invited to attend.

*The Rev. Edrena Houston Brown, MACE, is a Staff Writer for The Christian Recorder

9. THE MUSIC CORNER - CHOIR STAND!

*Mark Brandon

Selecting the Right Music

“When I say Jesus you say Christ, Jesus - Christ! Jesus…” is a popular hip hop based call and response refrain that has often been heard as part of contemporary music worship. The leader encourages the “followship” in a communion of boisterous, adoration, praise and assurance. Many voices speaking as one is the extroverted and rhythmic implication. With the organist, keyboardist, and drummer kicking out a hot groove underneath this chant, it seems obvious at these moments that everybody is on board with this “Jesus thing”— or am I just hoping that they are?

The popular hymn “Blessed Assurance.” has been surely sung by millions from every walk of life over the years. Playing as a musician on the choir stand, I have often wished that I could, if only for a moment, climb into the minds of worshippers during the singing of that song. When the melody hits the chorus, “This is my story, this is my song, praising my Savior all day long …” I feel like the message doesn’t just belong to the songwriters Fannie Crosby and Phoebe Knapp. This is my story! I can see on the faces of many in the congregation that this is their story too. This is the story of the people I’m worshipping with. Or am I just hoping that it is?

As a music worship leader I’ve often silently asked myself if I have prepared choirs, or soloists or even musical programs with appropriate songs that meet the singers and musicians’ lives in that moment of service. I have also sought within whether particular songs or styles would be the most effective vehicle to speak into the lives of the congregation. In the perfect ministry of a song, the singer or musician’s life embodies the words and spiritual essence of that song. Wrapping his or herself around the message and powered by the Holy Spirit the singer/musician’s life and performance become one. His or her song becomes our story.

This specific notion of essential and spiritual honesty is an absolute in the worship service. Every song is like a mirror that we hold high during the service; singing the reflection of our lives, both to ourselves and to each other. Holding up the right mirrors, setting the right musical tone, the right atmosphere, and flavoring the worship appropriately is so vital to the success of the service. Let’s be real about this; sung worship doesn’t just prime the pump in our churches. Often for many, including visitors to a service, it is the pump. Choosing the right musical vehicles and streams is therefore not a superficial or trivial matter. A single tune holds the power to begin, strengthen, or… derail a person’s faith walk.

In future articles we will discuss the many facets of effective music ministry, but all strategies begin first and foremost with the centrality of prayer. Prayer for a right mind and heart of discipleship, ministry and evangelism; prayer for clarity in understanding the spiritual/musical needs of the congregation; prayer and study to gain excellence and enlargement of both skills and prospective; and most of all, prayer that during the course of service and in the course of all things, His will be done.

If we are prayerfully diligent in our music ministry, we can grow in the confidence that as singers, musicians, directors, congregants, and clergy we will sing as one in the spirit All can honestly personalize when they sing “this is my story, this is my song,” and when we raise voices in the collective chant, “when I say Jesus, you say Christ… Jesus- Christ! Jesus…”

* Mark Brandon has been a professor of music at Ramapo College of New Jersey for the past 14 years.

The author of the article welcomes your comments. Send e-mail to: mbrandon3@earthlink.net

Editor’s Note: Mark Brandon is currently working on a book Choir Stand, which centers on issues surrounding the ministry of music in the contemporary church. Professor Brandon is the coordinator of music for the 42 churches of the New Jersey conference of the AME Zion Church and the director of music in his local church for the past 22 years. Starting as a teen director of his home church's youth choir, he went on to become pianist and musical director for such artists as Ben E. King, The Drifters, Average White Band, and the Supremes. As a solo artist, he has toured worldwide including appearances as the opening act to comedienne Joan Rivers and to country artist Clint Black. He was a musical arranger for BBC television in England and the composer/producer of many television and radio commercials aired internationally. He acted in the role of the pianist in the film "She Devil" and composed the soundtrack to the PBS documentary, "Brother Men." With all those experiences he says that professional secular accomplishments are great, but his heart and focus lay in sacred musical worship, which he states is, "the air that I breathe!"

Future Articles will focus upon Selecting the Right Music, Stuck in a Musical Rut, Clergy vs. Musicians: Round 1, Hymns for HIM, Stop Playing: Do You know What You're Singing, Musical Traditions in the Local Church, Musical Hermeneutics, Tuning Up, And If I Die Before I Wake…, and A Gospel Pearl: Holy Hip Hop.

10. GOSPEL ARTIST JAMES BIGNON CAPTURES AUDIENCE:

By: Delanda S. Johnson, Guest Writer

On Saturday, July 29, Gospel Recording Artist James Bignon captured a standing room only congregation at Allen Chapel AME Church in Athens, Texas with his powerful and emotional traditional gospel music.

Bignon who was in Athens for a two and a half day gospel music workshop concluded with songs of glory and praise to the Lord with the help of his workshop choir members.
Bignon stated, “I have felt at home here in the City of Athens. Throughout my travel across the United States and other countries, this is first time that I have seen City officials (Mayor Daniel/Athens & Mayor Isaacson/Malakoff) who were here in person and stay until the end of program.”

Bignon stressed that being a good choir member means to be dedicated, dependable, eager to learn, be a leader in worship, a team member, keep God first, and be armed for battle. “You should be a blessing and not a nightmare to your choir. Remember it’s not about you, but it’s about GOD,” said Bignon.

Allen Chapel and Johnson Chapel wish to thank all of its individual sponsors and churches who supported the program.

11. THE GLOBAL CORNER - CONNECTIONAL APPEAL

*The Rev. Willem Simon Hanse

The joy of serving the Lord Jesus is always our source of strength, and we have the honour to greet you with Jesus’ joy.

The St. James AME Church in the Namibia Annual Conference of the 15th Episcopal District under the leadership of Bishop Samuel L Green Sr is proud to announce that our St. James Trust, a welfare organ of our local church, has started a Soup Kitchen serving pensioners, orphans and vulnerable children in our town of Mariental.

And we stand in need of your financial contributions, how big or small, to help supplement the resources raised locally by our members. The St. James AME Church serve the most needy people of this town in the residential area known as Aimablaagte, and we want you to know that your contribution will add a smile to a lot of poor people and inner strength to many hungry and destitute children.

Please consider prayerfully a financial contribution to the St. James AME Church.

In the Master’s Service

*The Rev. Willem Simon Hanse
St. James AME Church
P O Box 78
Mariental
Republic of Namibia

12. HEALTH SYMPOSIUM ON CARDIOVASCULAR DISEASES AND AFRICAN AMERICANS:

The overall life expectancy of African Americans continues to remain the lowest amongst the other sectors in the United States. With one third of annual deaths of African-Americans due to cardiovascular diseases, it can be concluded that the state of health for this specific group is particularly precarious. In a national effort to address health issues concerning the heart among African Americans, the African Methodist Episcopal Church Service and Development Agency (AME-SADA) has launched a domestic health initiative to help foster a better understanding of the serious issues involved with cardiovascular diseases among this group.

Starting with a Health Symposium at the Marriott Crystal City Hotel on Thursday, September 21, 2006, AME-SADA, in partnership with the AME Church (AMEC) Second District Religious Educational and Charitable Development Projects, Inc. (R.E.D.), and the Second Episcopal District Health Commission will initiate a national project targeted to help promote awareness of the disease and thus reduce the mortality rates among black communities across America. “Our Cardiovascular Diseases and African American health initiative is open to the general public and designed to help people at risk. Our objectives with this symposium is to encourage African Americans to better monitor and control their cholesterol levels; consume less saturated fats; reduce their sodium intake; control their weight and adopt exercise programs; monitor and control hypertension and diabetes; decrease alcohol consumption; and eliminate tobacco use,” says AME-SADA Health Program Officer, Dr. Mitsue Colin. “According to statistics compiled by the American Heart Association, the greatest killer today among African Americans is cardiovascular disease (CVD). Since the impact of this disease is so vastly underestimated by the general public, we urge AME Church members and the public at large to participate at the launching of AME-SADA’s first domestic health initiative,” says Dr. Colin.

AME-SADA, the AMEC’s Second Episcopal District Health Commission and R.E.D.’s pilot programs addressing the issue of cardiovascular diseases start in the Washington, DC area September 21st. During the September 21st Health Symposium, there will be a panel of experts discussion from 9:00 AM to 12 noon with guest speakers and industry representatives discussing topics related to CVD. This will be followed by a session of non-evasive screenings (blood pressure, body fat analysis) from noon to 2:00 PM.

“Our mission is ‘Helping people to help themselves’ and we are proud of the impact we’ve had around the world over the past three decades,” says AME-SADA Executive Director Robert Nicolas, Esq., “We expect this domestic effort to affect the lives of hundreds of thousands of Americans in positive and progressive ways.” “If people want to improve their lifestyle by addressing health issues like obesity, cigarette smoking, high salt intake, improper diets and stress levels, they should definitively participate in this valuable health session,” says Mr. Nicolas.

AME-SADA and R.E.D.’s Cardiovascular Diseases and African Americans Health Initiative is free and open to the public. To meet participants’ needs for individual services and counseling advance reservations are requested. Contact AME-SADA via 202.371.8722 or e-mail to mcolin@ame-sada.org.

Established in 1977, AME-SADA is the humanitarian relief and development unit of the African Methodist Episcopal Church, the oldest organized African American Methodist church in the United States. The AME church has been involved with health, education and community development issues nationally and internationally since its founding in 1787.

Contact: Mitsue Colin
202.371.8722

William Reed
202.547.4125

13. LEE CHAPEL, NASHVILLE ISSUES ANOTHER CALL TO ACTION:

*Paula Y. Holmes Minister of Music

Lee Chapel A.M.E. Church, 1732 Scovel Street - Nashville, TN 37208, telephone 615-320-0260 announces another call to action to provide additional aid for Katrina victims. The Rev. Edward L. Thompson is the pastor of Lee Chapel.

"It's good to meet you all. I thought my Church had forgotten about us."

Those were the words of greeting received from Mrs. Lillian Sams, an 88-year-old resident of Pearlington, Mississippi, and member of Greater Mt. Zion African Methodist Episcopal Church. George Thomas, Walretta Chandler, and I were in Pearlington on Saturday, July 29, 2006 as a part of a site-visit before the Lee Chapel AME Church Mission Chorus and a few supporters go to the area on September 1-3, 2006. The purpose of the trip is to give a benefit concert for the churches in the Mississippi Annual Conference, AMEC, damaged by the 2005 hurricane. Bishop Cornal G. Henning has altered the closing day of the Conference to accommodate the concert at 2 p.m., September 2 in Hattiesburg.

After touring the progress being made to restore our sister church, Greater Mt. Zion, Pastor Frederick L. Fields suggested we go next door to meet one of his members, Mrs. Lillian Sams, the widow of the late Rev. Robert Neville Sams. Rev. Sams pastored Greater Mt. Zion for 42 years -- including the period when it was known as Big Mt. Zion in Logtown, MS, through its relocation to Pearlington, and the name change. The current structure was built during his pastorate. A FEMA-provided trailer is parked on the property where Mrs. Sams' completely uninhabitable red brick home still stands. She is quick to tell you that although it is nearly a year since Hurricane Katrina hit and almost everything was lost, she is blessed to be alive.

She shared a tiny bit of her story of survival -- from being put into a boat at her home by her daughter to go next door to Greater Mt. Zion where persons had taken refuge from the storm; taking with her a young woman and uncle for whom she was caretaker; pushing floating pews out of the way to enter the church; standing on the pulpit to be pushed and pulled into the rafters of the church to avoid drowning; waiting there for four hours before being rescued -- to learning of the death of her nephew from the storm. But she's quick to thank God, for they have been the recipients of the outpouring of great kindness from many strangers from August 2005 to date. Because of it, her knowledge that God is good is affirmed. She talked at length about the many persons who have not only visited but have been of help as efforts are made to restore her home. A recent group of volunteers was composed of women who completed a major portion of the rewiring inside. But there is so much more left to do in her home, in Greater Mt. Zion, and in the immediate neighborhood. According to published reports, only 3 of the 900 homes in Pearlington were left untouched by the hurricane. (See reference 1.) Upon the first aerial view by the nearby John C. Stennis Space Center immediately following the hurricane, it was believed that the whole city was lost as only water could be seen.

Through it all, Mrs. Sams says she has wondered where her beloved AME Church has been. We assured her that the Church has responded from across the Connection with finances, truckloads of goods and with prayer. We told her of our firsthand knowledge of efforts during the several months after the hurricane when offerings were collected, goods bought and delivered, and checks mailed. She nodded, and said "But you're the first AMEs we've seen, other than our Bishop [Henning]. We thought you didn't care." We assured her that the Church still cares, and a few folk will be back and ready to work in any way we can.

Undoubtedly, there are many areas in the Gulf Coast Region that are still in need of help, and we recognize that the rebuilding could take years. For this time, however, we're going to focus on Pearlington, MS, a town of 1,684 according to the 2000 Census, where 17% of the population is black. (See reference 2.) We invite you to assist in the effort. Specifically, we will spend the afternoon on Friday, September 1st in Pearlington delivering goods and performing whatever hands-on tasks are identified by the Pastor and neighborhood residents. On Saturday, September 2, we will give the benefit concert in Hattiesburg; and on Sunday, September 3, worship with St. James AMEC, Picayune, MS before returning to Nashville.

I have prepared a PowerPoint presentation of about 20 pictures that were taken last weekend, but it is too large to attach here. I will make it available on a CD, however, if you wish to view it. A few pictures are pasted below. Be assured, though, that even the full slide show presentation is inadequate to tell the story.

We asked Rev. Fields, Mrs. Sams and a few of the neighbors last Saturday about their current needs. What can we take back on September 1? They assured us that no clothing or food supplies are needed. Below is the beginning of a list:

- Toilet Tissue & Paper Towels (When they go to the Distribution Center, they are given 2 rolls of toilet tissue and 1 roll of paper towels)
- Gift Cards (Lowe's, Home Depot) for building supplies
- Gift Cards (Wal-Mart) for other needs
- Laundry Detergent, Dryer Sheets, liquid Fabric Softener (Greater Mt. Zion has a small shed that has been converted to a Laundromat for the complimentary use by members of the community. The washer and dryer were donated.)
- 45 AME Hymnals (25 for Pearlington and 20 for Picayune)
- Offering Plates
- Communion Kits (the kind with the wafer and grape juice packaged together)
- African-American Heritage Hymnals

Greater Mt. Zion in Pearlington has a congregation of approximately 40 members. Rev. Fields is also the pastor currently at St. James AME Church in Picayune, which was also damaged by the storm. Although they moved back into the church in February, used pews and new ceiling fans and lights were just installed in July. St. James' congregation has approximately 30 members.

There are a few seats left on the 47-passenger bus that we have reserved for this trip. We hope that we can take at least one full bus to let the people in Pearlington and Picayune know that in addition to sending checks and goods, AMEs and some non-AME friends care enough to show up, though it is a year later.

If you know of persons who are semi-skilled in construction work, e.g., putting up sheetrock, hanging doors, installing wiring, etc., their assistance could be most valuable, depending on where they are in their rebuilding process when we return. It is hoped that there will be tasks for the unskilled among us as well. We recognize that this one weekend of efforts will not get them to the end of their rebuilding and restoration, but it is our prayer that we can provide a little help and a little cheer on this leg of their journey.

If you want to make donations toward the purchase of things on the list to be transported on the chartered bus, please make checks payable to Lee Chapel AME Church, indicate 'Mission Trip' on the memo line, and mail by Saturday, August 19 to Lee Chapel AME Church, c/o Paula Y. Holmes, Minister of Music, 1732 Scovel Street, Nashville, TN 37208.

If you desire, items from this list may also be delivered to Lee Chapel on Wednesday, August 30, when we will have a prayer and song service for the Mission trip at 7 p.m.

If you want to make a donation to the benefit concert for all of the affected churches in the area, please make your check payable to the 8th Episcopal District and send it to my attention at Lee Chapel. We will present it to Bishop Henning on your behalf, or you may send it to the District directly.

For more information, you may contact Rev. Frederick L. Fields directly at Greater Mt. Zion, 228-533-9976, fredfields@peoplepc.com; Rev. Edward L. Thompson, Pastor, Lee Chapel Church (615-320-0260), leechurch@bellsouth.net; or me (615-399-8514).

Pray for the people in the Gulf States Region, and please pray for this Mission Trip. We praise God for you. May He continue to bless you mightily!

*Paula Y. Holmes is the Minister of Music at Lee Chapel AME Church

14. UNITED METHODIST COMMISSION CALLS PROFESSOR’S REMARKS ‘INSULTING’:

By United Methodist News Service

A speech given by a professor at a United Methodist-related school was “insulting and denigrating to our African American and Latino brothers and sisters,” said the Rev. Chester Jones, top executive of the United Methodist Commission on Religion and Race.

Richard Lamm, a professor at the University of Denver and former governor of Colorado, spoke during an immigration overpopulation conference in Washington last week. He also made some of the same remarks during an earlier speech on multiculturalism at the Vail Symposium.

In a statement released by the commission, Jones said Lamm argues that African American and Latino “cultures” are the reasons for the “underperformance” of these communities.

“It is appalling to hear or read that a professor in one of our church related institutions believes that the secret to destroy America is through the promotion of an American society that is bilingual-bicultural, multicultural, diverse, and open to differences,” Jones said.

“Reading his speech, I was not sure if Mr. Lamm was being profoundly sarcastic or plain nativist, or simply racist. Clearly he is all of the above; his speech was written in a deeply sarcastic style, in order to show how his nativist and racist perspectives are part of America’s mainstream.”

In the statement, the Commission on Religion and Race calls for the University of Denver to develop a strategy “that counters the racist and nativist views” expressed by Lamm and to “diligently promote with professors and students the real values of a diverse and culturally sensitive society.”

Jim Berscheidt, a university spokesman, said Lamm “has the right to express his point of view, he is a tenured faculty member.” Berscheidt pointed out Lamm’s book, Two Wands, One Nation, was published outside the university.

News media contact: Kathy L. Gilbert, Nashville, Tenn., (615) 742-5470 or newsdesk@umcom.org

Used with Permission of UMC News Service

15. RESOLUTION IN MEMORY OF THE MINISTRY OF THE REVEREND JOHN PATER ASHWORTH III FROM THE PRESIDING ELDERS’ COUNCIL – 13TH EPISCOPAL DISTRICT:

Whereas – The loving and All Wise God, we love and serve has removed from our midst, our beloved father, brother, and friend in the ministry, the Reverend John Pater Ashworth, III, on Tuesday, August 1, 2006, from the toils and trails of this world to eternal life.

Imagine a world without the beauty and fragrance of flowers, and what would the world be without the beauty and fragrance of Christian lives? Our dear Brother’s life has not been in vain; it has filled its place in the world and will always fill a place in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. We, the Presiding Elders Council, along with the entire 13th Episcopal District feel that his soul is safe with our Heavenly Father to dwell throughout eternity.

Therefore, BE IT RESOLVED – While we mourn him going from us, we are resigned to the Divine Will of the Heavenly Father. We give thanks for his life among us, for his gentle nature, his kindness of heart and his dedication to Kingdom building.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED – That as we informed the ministers of the Kentucky Conference where he served as a presiding elder, from 1990 to 1997, each minister used words to describe his administration; “gentle, kindhearted, truthful, honest, and always looking out for the his own preachers.”

BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED – We, the Presiding Elders Council, extend to Mother JoJo and the family our deepest and sincere sympathy in their loss. May they rely on Him who can and will heal all sorrow and that a copy of this resolution be given to the family and a copy be placed in the office of the 13th Episcopal District.

Respectfully Submitted:

The Reverend Linda F. Thomas-Martin, Louisville-Paducah District – West Kentucky Conference, President of the Presiding Elders Council – 2006

Submitted by the Reverend Ralph Johnson, Presiding Elder of the Lexington District, Kentucky Annual Conference, 13th Episcopal District, AME Church

The Right Reverend Vashti Murphy McKenzie is the Presiding Prelate of the 13th Episcopal District

16. OBITUARY OF THE REVEREND WILLIAM J. BAXTER, PRESIDING ELDER OF THE ORANGEBURG (SOUTH CAROLINA) DISTRICT:

*Submitted by Benjamin Harrison
Willie J. Baxter, Presiding Elder of the Orangeburg district of the African Methodist Episcopal Church in South Carolina, departed this life Thursday, July 27, 2006, at the Medical University of South Carolina in Charleston, after a brief illness. Presiding Elder Baxter lived a full, joyous life exemplified by his devotion to God and his passion to uplift others.

Presiding Elder Baxter was born in St. Matthews, SC, the son of the late Eugene and Beulah Jones Baxter. The late Presiding Elder B. F. Sumpter licensed him to preach at Ebenezer AME Church. Elder Baxter was admitted to the Central Conference and ordained as an Itinerant Deacon and Elder by the late Bishop C. A. Gibbs. Elder Baxter served for over forty years as Pastor and Presiding Elder in the Central Conference. His pastoral appointments include Mount Zion, Emmanuel, and St. Peters AME Churches. Bishop John H. Adams appointed him as Presiding Elder of the Wateree and Orangeburg District. His love for people influenced his venture into several entrepreneurial pursuits.

Presiding Elder Baxter received his formal education in the Calhoun County School System, graduated from O-C Technical College, completed extensive divinity coursework, and held leadership roles within the AME Church’s Orangeburg, Calhoun, and Columbia, South Carolina communities. Elder Baxter served as Chief Marshall for the Connectional Church. He was a member of the General Conference since 1976 and served on the Episcopal Committee, General Conference Commission and Plenary Inaugural Committee. He also served as Treasurer of the Seventh Episcopal District of the AME Church and member of the Board of Trustees for Allen University in Columbia, SC. He was an accomplished pilot and was Chairperson of the Orangeburg Aviation Commission for over ten years.

Presiding Elder Baxter is survived by his loving and devoted wife Sarah; one daughter, Gwen (Eddie) Baxter-Oakley, Ayase, Japan; three sons, Quintin, Maurice, and James all of Orangeburg; two brothers, John W. Baxter and Eugene Baxter of Orangeburg; 2 uncles, Otis Jones of Orangeburg and Willie (Liz) Baxter of Brooklyn, NY; two aunts, Katherine Major and Eula M. Baxter of Orangeburg; five grandchildren--Quamall Mays, Khylona Baxter, Ariana Oakley, Demenia, Kimberly, and Sedaris Mays; seven sisters-in-law and four brothers-in-law--Elease Johnson, Ruby Johnson, Rebecca J. (Edward) Odom, and Anna R. (Curtis) McLendon; Clay (Shirley) Johnson of Orangeburg, SC Allen (Marva) Johnson, Greenville, SC and Charity Baxter of East Orange, NJ; a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other loving relatives, and wonderful friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his sister Margaret B. Stevenson, and one brother Marion Baxter.

*Benjamin HarrisonPublic Relations Director7th District AME ChurchTel 803.935.0500 ext 107Cell 803.528.7104Fax 803.935.0830HarrisonAMEMedia@aol.com

17. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

We regret to inform you of the passing of Mrs. Bernice Hearns. She was the mother of Mrs. Daisy B. Fox, New York Conference Y.P.D. Director. The following information has been provided regarding funeral arrangements.

Funeral Service - Thursday, August 10, 2006

Viewing – 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.
Service – 11:00 a.m.
Bethel A.M.E. Church
1504 Beach 11th Street
Far Rockaway, NY 11696
The Rev. Carl F. Hunter, Pastor
Telephone: 718-327-7043
Fax: 718-327-4540

Condolences may be sent to:
Mrs. Daisy B. Fox
45 Zavatt Street
Inwood, NY 11096
Phone: 516-239-0876
Fax: 516-239-3502

Please remember the family of Mrs. Bernice Hearns in your prayers.

18. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

We regretfully inform you of the passing of Mrs. Gracie Butler, the mother of Reverend J. H. Butler, the pastor of Greater Bethel A.M.E. Church of the South Atlanta District of the Atlanta North Georgia Conference.

Services Entrusted to:

Willie Watkins Funeral Home
1003 Ralph D. Abernathy Blvd
Atlanta, GA 30310

404-758-1731 - phone
404-758-3246 - fax

Homegoing Service:

Saturday, August 12th at 11:00 a.m.

Sanders Memorial Baptist Church
3077 Clarendale Drive, NW
Atlanta, GA 30327

404-355-7344
Condolences can be forwarded to:

Dr. James H. Butler
2424 Scottridge Drive, NW
Atlanta, GA 30318

404-792-0933 - home

Please keep the Butler family in prayer.

BBCallowaySixth District HeadquartersAfrican Methodist Episcopal Church

19. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT ANNOUNCEMENTS PROVIDED BY:

Bishop Carolyn Tyler Guidry, Chair
Commission on Social Action Clergy Family Information Center

Ora L. EasleyEmail:
Amespouses1@aol.com
Phone: (615) 837-9736
Fax: (615) 833-3781
Voice Mail: (615) 833-6936
Cell: (615) 403-7751

20. 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