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. MAKE A NEW YEARS RESOLUTION! "2007" - SUBSCRIBE TO THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER:
Subscribe to The Christian Recorder Online
Subscribe to the foreign language edition of The Christian Recorder Online
Give your Family Members and Friends the Perfect Gift for the New Year!
Subscribe to The Christian Recorder Newspaper
of the
African Methodist Episcopal Church
+ Enjoy the Latest in Reading
Editorials
Issues and Concerns of the Church
Clergy of The Week
Events around the Connectional Church
Youth Events and Activities
Episcopal Districts/Annual Conferences
World news and events
The Mother Country of Africa
And Much, Much More!
For Only $36.00 Dollars per Year!
CALL TODAY 800-648-8724
The Reverend Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III - Editor
chsydnor@bellsouth.net
VISIT THE WEEKLY ONLINE ENGLISH VERSION OF THE RECORDER
(The Christian Recorder is also available in
Dutch, French, Portuguese, and Spanish)
2. READER RESPONSE TO EDITORIAL AND OTHER ISSUES:
To the Editor:
I have a question and comment I would like for you to consider publishing for your online Recorder subscribers. Why can't we allow each mainland Episcopal District to host the General Conference? I find it simply amazing that neither the 7th District, 9th District nor the 12th District have hosted the GC in recent memory, if ever. The justification for their exclusion has typically been based on the belief that neither of these Districts have the requisite hotel space and convention facilities to accommodate the General Conference. These two rationales are urban legends and logistically erroneous. If anyone has ever visited Charleston, SC, Birmingham, AL or Oklahoma City, OK you know these great cities host activities far bigger than the General Conference. Having the GC in historic Charleston would allow many AME members to visit Allen University in nearby Columbia, SC. The state of South Carolina is home to more AM E churches than any state in the United States. Shouldn't that count for something? Oklahoma City is actually the most central location in the US thus reducing travel time for participants coming from either the West Coast or the East Coast. I find it remarkable at how we talk so much about "inclusiveness" and fairness yet we exclude these excellent venues from consideration as future GC sites. If it was up to me, the GC in 2020 would be held in the Sooner State of Oklahoma.
Bill Dickens
Editor’s comment: Since we are a global Church, why limit holding a future General Conference to the U.S. mainland? Let’s think globally and look at a General Conference being held in the Caribbean or on the continent of Africa. Maybe not now, but we ought to be thinking about it.
3. THE GLOBAL CORNER - GREETINGS FROM THE RWANDA CONFERENCE- AN APPEAL FOR HELP:
Greetings to my bishop, the Right Reverend Paul Kawimbe
We have received a call this morning from the Rev. Kulu of Eastern Congo District telling us about the catastrophic situation that our members there are experiencing.
Six of our AME Churches in Kivu North are experiencing trouble due to tribal wars in Massisi and Rutshuru. The members left their regions and are refugees in their counties in other zones. About 1,500 AME Members are suffering.
Please we call up on our AME religious leaders to assist them in any way you can. The AME refugees are in need of clothing, Sheets (Bedding), food and medicines,
Please help.
Meanwhile, we are busy in preparing the conference. We expect to hear from you soon.
May God bless you.
On behalf of the Bishop's Administrative Assistant for our Conference
The Rev. Felix, the Conference Secretary
4. EVENTS FOR THE NEW YEAR 2007 AROUND THE CONNECTIONAL CHURCH:
Rev. Edrena Houston Brown, M.A.C.E.
Christian Recorder, Staff Writer
- Dr. Dennis Dickerson, AME Historiographer/Executive Director, Department of Research and Scholarship and Editor of The A.M.E. Church Review was appointed to an endowed chair at Vanderbilt University; as of January 1, 2007 he is the James Lawson Professor of History.
- The Rev. Dr. James Miller, Pastor of DuPage A.M.E. Church will be the guest speaker for The MLK Ecumenical Community Service at Wheaton College, Edmond Chapel on Monday, January 15, 2007 at 7:00 p.m., Over 2,000 persons are expected to be in attendance, college students, community leaders and the members of the community.
- Pastor James H. Russell and the Greater Bethel A.M.E. Church, Panama City, Florida of the 11th Episcopal District will sponsor a New Year's Eve "Community Gospel Explosion" on December 31, 2006 featuring the Brooklyn All Stars of Brooklyn, New York at 4:00 p.m., at Greater Bethel AMEC located at 706 Hamilton Avenue, Panama City, Florida 32401. For further information please call (850) 785-9612.
- The Rev. Thomas Brown, Pastor of Union Bethel A.M.E. Church, New Orleans, Louisiana will be the guest evangelist for the Stewardship Revival at DuPage A.M.E. Church, Isles, Ill. in the Fourth Episcopal District. January 24-26, 2007. Come and be blessed!
- The Reverend Dr. Daniel W. Jacobs, Sr., President of Turner Theological Seminary at the Interdenominational Theological Center, Atlanta, Georgia announces the 113th Founders' Day Convocation. Rev. Ellis I. Washington, Pastor of St. Matthew A.M.E. Church, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania of the First Episcopal District will be The Preacher of the Hour for the Alumni Worship Service.
Bishop C. Garnett Henning will deliver the closing sermon on February 8, 2007. The Founders' Day celebration will commence on February 6-8, 2007 at the Interdenominational Theological Center, Atlanta, Georgia and Flipper Temple A.M.E. Church, Atlanta, Georgia where The Rev. Augusta Hall, M.Div., serves as Pastor.
Registration is $100.00. For further information please call (404) 527-0080.
- Founders' Day celebration for the Second Episcopal District, Presiding Bishop Adam J. Richardson, Presiding Prelate will convene on February 22-24, 2007 at Saint Joseph's A.M.E. Church, Durham, North Carolina. Rev. Phillip R. Cousin, Jr., Host Pastor.
- The Rev. Gregory G. Groover Sr., pastor of Historic Charles Street AME Church in Boston and a community leader, who was active in the city's search for a new schools superintendent, will be named the newest member of the Boston School Committee. Before his appointment as pastor of Historic Charles Street, Rev. Groover was pastor of the Bright Temple A.M.E. Church in South Bronx from 1987 - 1994, where his work was recognized in the book "Amazing Grace" by Jonathan Kozol.
- A.M.E. University Wilberforce Choir of the Third Episcopal Church, Bishop Robert Vaughn Webster, Presiding Prelate and the Rev. Dr. Floyd Flake, serves at the President of Wilberforce University, will be Featured on upcoming motion picture soundtrack of the celebration of the 200th anniversary of the abolition of the Slavery Act in the US. The upcoming release of the film Amazing Grace, based on the story of William Wilberforce who championed the abolition, music inspired by The Motion Picture, Amazing Grace soundtrack will be released January 23, 2007 and the film will make its first debut, February 23, 2007 in theatres.
- The Second Annual Lay Organization Anniversary of the North District of the 11th Episcopal District, South Conference will be held on Sunday, January 28, 2007 at 4:00 p.m., at Saint Paul A.M.E. Church, Delray Beach, Florida. Mrs. Denise Holmes, President, Rev. Dr. Waymon Dixon, Host Pastor, Rev. Dr. Raymond Heastie, Presiding Elder. Come and be blessed!
- The Annual Layperson of the Year Banquet will be held at Saint Phillip A.M.E. Church, Decatur, Georgia of the Atlanta Georgia Conference Lay Organization will held on January 12, 2007 at 7:00 p.m., donations for tickets are $35.00 per person.
- Allen Temple A.M.E. Church, 2101 North Lowe Street, Tampa, Florida, Rev. Willie J. Cook, Sr., M.Div., Pastor will celebrate an Ecumenical Worship Service in honor of the late Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King on Monday, January 15, 2007 at 7:00 p.m. The Community is cordially invited to attend.
- The Reverend Dr. LeRoy Attles, Sr. will be the speaker for the Martin L. King "Prayer Breakfast" at Metropolitan Missionary Baptist Church, Boston MA., at 10:00 a.m. on Monday, January 15, 2007.
- The Reverend Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III will be the speaker for the Chattanooga, Tennessee Martin Luther King, Jr. Celebration that will be held at 3 p.m. at the New Enon Baptist Church, Chattanooga, Tennessee.
* If you are interested in publishing your events, please submit your events to; ebrown49@hotmail.com
- The African Methodist Episcopal Church (AMEC) Allen’s Temple, Flagstaff, St. Michael celebrated and enjoyed Kwanzaa for the first time in Barbados on Wednesday 27th Dec, 06. The Presiding Elder of Barbados and Grenada, the Rev. Anthony Parris spoke of the self-determination of the founder of the AME Church, Richard Allen and Richards’ other colleagues who did not give up the fight and struggle back in 1787 to form the AME church.
The Rev. Dr. Dudley Trotman, pastor of the Allen’s Temple, congregation and visitors were all well-informed by Mrs. Gill-Barnett and her husband Mr. Val Barnett of the Seven Principles of Kwanzaa that has to be practiced throughout the year, these principles being, Unity, Self-Determination, Collective Work and Responsibility, Co-operative Economics, Purpose, Creativity and Faith. Drum call was done by Caroline Sobers Minister in Training. Certificates of Honor were presented to the Rev. E. Brewster, the Rev. E. Small, Mrs. Linda Small, Mrs. Edith Nurse, Veta Best, Marcell Boxill, Wesley Smith, and F. Carter the stalwarts of the church for their steadfastness, dedication and self-determination in keeping the church on course during its difficult periods over the last decade.
The coming year marks the 200th anniversary of abolition of the Trans Atlantic Slave Trade, significantly it also marks the 220th anniversary of the church which played a pivotal role in challenging the Slave Trade as its founder members were born into slavery.
Buddy Larrier
Public Relation Officer
5. A YOUNG ADULT LEGISLATIVE AGENDA FOR 2008:
With the arrival of 2007, attention across the Connection will turn to the preparations for the 48th General Conference in St. Louis, Missouri. An important part of planning for the General Conference will be the series of Convoys, beginning in February at which ideas for legislation and church reform will be discussed. Foremost among these discussions should be how to integrate more effectively young adults into the decision-making process of the African Methodist Episcopal Church.
Examining the status of young adults in the hierarchy of the AME Church yields many bright spots. All churches, circuits and stations are required to send a young adult representative to the District Conference. Every Annual Conference is mandated to send at least one young adult delegate (ages 18-30) to the General Conference. Additionally, current interpretation of the law regarding the composition of the General Board instructs that one member of each Episcopal District delegation must be a young adult*. The Laymen’s Organization elects young adult delegates at the Conference and Episcopal levels to its Biennial Convention and the Women’s Missionary Society (WMS) has embarked on the Young Women’s Initiative. Most notably, the Connectional President and Director of the Young People’s Department (YPD) of the WMS are members of the General Conference.
The existence of these positions and initiatives shows that the AME Church values Young Adult involvement in its affairs. The young adult voice, however, is missing at the heart of African Methodism—the Annual Conference. In the State of the Church Address at the 2005 General Board Meeting in Dallas, TX, Bishop Richard Allen Chappelle, Sr., expressed concern that young adults were being elected as delegates to the General Conference without having participated in the work of the Annual Conference. As a remedy for this situation, Bishop Chappelle suggested that every church be required to send—in addition to the adult delegate—a young adult delegate to the Annual Conference. This idea is in keeping with established AME Church practice of including young adult delegates to the District and General Conferences and will enable young adults to be better prepared for service to the Church. Additionally, I submit that the Conference YPD President should be a member of the Annual Conference. As previously stated, both the Connectional YPD Director and President are members of the General Conference; yet only the Conference YPD Director is currently a member of the Annual Conference.
The addition of young adults at the Annual Conference level is vital to the current and future functioning of the AME Church if it is to be inclusive. Bishop Chappelle’s concerns regarding the future of the Church are warranted, and only by actively including young adults in our governing processes can we hope to make progress and successfully pass the baton on to future generations. By making the Conference YPD President a member of the Annual Conference and sending a young adult delegate from every charge, the AME Church gives the church of tomorrow an opportunity to learn from and serve with the leaders of today.
*2004 Doctrine and Discipline references: General Board- pg. 156, General Conference- pg. 206, District Conference-pg. 228, Laymen’s Organization- pg. 401
John Thomas III is a member of St. John AME Church (Nashville, TN- 13th Episcopal District). He serves on the General Board and is the official Spanish translator for the 16th Episcopal District. He is an alumnus of Morehouse College and will be graduated with the Master’s degree in Public Affairs from Princeton University in June 2007.
6. THE SONS OF ALLEN OF ST. PAUL A.M.E. CHURCH JACKSONVILLE TAKE ON AN OUTREACH PROJECT WE CALL “THE BICYCLE MISSION”:
Sister Angela Surcey Garner, St. Paul AMEC/11th District’s Media Team
Saint Paul A.M.E. Church in Jacksonville, FL, where The Reverend Marvin C. Zanders, II is the Senior Pastor, was blessed with many bicycles donated by the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office this year. The Sons of Allen, led by Pastor Zanders, the President, Brother Faheem Rasheed, and Steward, Brother Albert Buckner, chose this project during the summer, with prayers the bicycles would be ready for distribution by Thanksgiving and Christmas. One Saturday afternoon, the Sons of Allen assembled outside in the parking lot with all of the bicycles, particularly the ones that needed repair, and there was food for everyone. Our Shepherd, Pastor Zanders, and our East Conference Lay President, Brother Joseph S. Coppock, Sr., also members of the Sons of Allen, were there to help get the ball rolling on this mission. Two members of the Women of Allen, Sisters Deborah Limbric Rasheed and Christine Garner Atkinson, also our East Conference Lay Director of Public Relations, were also on hand to assist the men.
After eating delicious chicken, potato salad, and drinking cold beverages, the Sons of Allen were ready to work. Each member selected a bicycle, determined the problems and repaired them. The ladies were the test riders and there was one youth, Brother Ollie Collins, V, who also assisted with test rides. As each bicycle was refurbished, it was tested for safety. There were original problems like broken or disassembled chains, disconnected brakes, missing pedals, loose handlebars, missing or loose seats, flat tires and other problems they could repair during a complete restoration. The Sons of Allen worked very hard, long hours to get these bicycles ready for distribution.
Before sunset that Saturday, most of the bicycles were repaired and ready to go. We stored them until youth who were to receive them were selected. During the Holiday Season, beginning with Thanksgiving, we announced the bicycles were ready and began to distribute them. After sending permission slips to the homes of the youth that requested them, the parents returned the slips signed with their approval. Each week since Thanksgiving, we’ve blessed many of our youth with newly refurbished bicycles. We are blessed by their joy and the gratitude from our youth and their parents. It is St. Paul’s mission to “share Christ and meet needs”; this project is a good example of carrying out that mission.
We hope to obtain more bicycles this year to share with others. Until then, the Sons of Allen will continue to schedule Saturdays to complete repairs on the few bicycles we have left. This project brings the men’s ministry together in fellowship and service. What a blessed way to work together in preparation for sharing with others. The Sons of Allen exemplified leadership and teamwork in bringing this project to fruition. And yet, there’s room for more; all of our men should get involved. There’s a place for you in the Sons of Allen Men’s Ministry.
7. THE GLOBAL CORNER - 18TH DISTRICT SPONSORS INAUGURAL STUDENT SUMMER SCIENCE INSTITUTE:
The buzzing sound of excitement was heard in classroom B-2 at Seifka High School, Maseru, Lesotho, December 18-22, 2006. These sounds were being made by 21 energetic, secondary and high school students from the 18th Episcopal District Schools. The Summer Science Institute students (twelve boys and nine girls) represented five of the A.M.E. secondary and high schools: Boitelo, Maruthane, Johnson-Baker, Serutle, and Gregg Memorial.
These summer student-researchers were recommended by their headmasters to attend the inaugural Summer Science/Math Institute for Students. The Science/Math Institute was sponsored by the 18th District where the Right Reverend Sarah F. Davis is the Presiding Prelate. The 18th District provided room and board scholarships for the students. The institute was facilitated by Dr. Carol T. Mitchell, Associate Professor at the University of Nebraska-Omaha, Omaha, Nebraska - U.S.A. (who also happens to be the twin sister of Bishop Sarah.)
The purpose of the Summer Science Institute was to involve secondary and high school students in laboratory experiences that supported the theoretical science information they had learned from lectures and readings in textbooks at their schools. Since equipment and materials are virtually nonexistent at the students’ homes schools for these types of experiences, Dr. Mitchell brought materials from the U.S. so that students could conduct experiments involving chemistry, biology and physics. Additionally, mathematics investigations involving design, measurement and other applications were included in the week-long institute.
On the first day of the institute the student-researchers were presented with their own laboratory jackets which were gifts from the College of Education at the University of Nebraska – Omaha, Teacher Education Department and staff workers at the University of Nebraska Medical Center. Students wore their laboratory jackets proudly each day of the institute.
Students were engaged in experimentations and problem-solving activities throughout the week. Work included using the periodic table of elements to understand the reactivity of elements. Students were shown some of the elements such as iron, zinc and copper. Students said that they had read about these elements but had never seen the elements nor performed experiments with them. Students made models of compounds using toothpicks and marshmallows. Examples of models made by the students were: methane, water, carbon dioxide, sodium chloride and others. Different types of chemical reactions were completed. Other investigations included phase change, pressure, and indicators. One of the favorite investigations of the students was using a special indicator paper to do finger printing.
Thirty minutes each afternoon the students and Dr. Mitchell sat under a big tree near the classroom getting to know each other. The students taught Dr. Mitchell words and phrases in their native language. In addition to learning science and math, the time spent under the tree was used to discuss qualities of leaders and leadership; to learn about careers in science and math, and the requirements necessary to pursue further studies after high school.
The final event of the Summer Institute was a problem-solving competition where students applied science and mathematics concepts to design and construct a parachute. Students were challenged to design the parachute and determine the materials that would give them the best competitive descending time. Students worked for three afternoons testing different designs and parachute materials.
Students enjoyed the math and science work despite the fact that this was their summer vacation. Students reported to Classroom B-2 every morning at 8:00 AM and departed at 3:30 PM. One student said, “This institute must be extended to maybe two weeks.” Another student said, “This institute was really important to me because my knowledge is improved...please come to us again to continue with this course.”
The closing ceremony on Friday included a presentation by the Institute’s student president, Lerka Semela. Semela spoke on behalf of the students as he shared with the Secretary of Education, Paulina Mokhosi and Bishop Sarah Davis all that the students had learned during the week. The other officers who also presented were: Khomong Thebe, vice president, Lebohang Ralesekele, secretary and Tseliso Kesi, communications coordinator. Dr. Mitchell presented the students with a science book, periodic tables, and personalized book marks.
Bishop Sarah, Education Secretary Mokhosi and Dr. Carol have already begun to discuss plans for the 2007 Summer Science Institutes and the need to extend the time of number of class sessions.
8. THE GLOBAL CORNER - FIRST SUMMER MATH/SCIENCE INSTITUTE FOR THE 18th DISTRICT A.M.E. SCHOOL TEACHERS - A GREAT SUCCESS:
Maseru, Lesotho was the site of the first Summer Math/Science Teacher Institute, December 14-16, 2006. Nine mathematics and science teachers (four Primary; four Secondary; and one High School) spent two and a half days studying science and mathematics at the Sefika High School. The institute was facilitated by Dr. Carol T. Mitchell; associate professor of science education at the University of Nebraska – Omaha, Omaha, Nebraska – U.S.A. Participating teachers represented four Provinces Moholong, Maseru, Mafeteng, and Butha Buthe. The Institute was coordinated by Secretary of Education Paulina Mokhosi. The Right Reverend Bishop Sarah F. Davis is the Presiding Prelate of 18th Episcopal District.
The purpose of the three day Math/Science Institute for Teachers was to focus on increased student involvement and achievement in mathematics and science by focusing on teaching/learning strategies and a variety of assessments. The teaching/learning strategies included inquiry, constructivism, learner differences, and assessment.
The institute work included science teaching attitude survey, National Science Teachers Association Science Standards, inquiry, and investigations for science, mathematics, and reading. Learner differences and appropriate assessments were also a part of the institute.
Teachers completed a science attitude survey about science and teaching science. This information was used to help teachers determine their level of comfort with science and teaching science. This was important for elementary teachers who teach all subjects and science. The next phase of the work included an introduction of the National Education Standards as presented by the National Science Teachers Association. Basic sciences concepts were identified and related to the concepts that local standards’ test identify. Other areas of focus for the three day work included inquiry, content in mathematics, chemistry, biology, and K-6 science.
Investigations were a major part of the three day institute. Examples of the work included a cube problem on inquiry, measurement investigation, analysis of data, and identification of an equation for the graph. Graphing techniques for primary, secondary and high school students were explored.
Teachers were required to complete four readings from science journals. These were used as a springboard for discussions and investigations related to inquiry, learner differences, and assessment. The articles were from the Science and Children journal published by the National Science Teachers Association.
Other work completed by the institute teachers included consideration for learner differences, learning styles, multiple intelligences and appropriate strategies to accommodate students most effectively.
Teachers worked collaboratively in grade level groups (primary, secondary and high school) to complete investigations, determine concepts and appropriate assessments for the concepts.
Dr. Mitchell used the constructivist approach as she facilitated the institute. Falling balls, dancing raisins, inflating balloons, and the unquenchable candle were all used to explain science concepts.
The Institute ended with teachers giving presentation to facilitator, Dr. Mitchell; the Secretary of Education, Paulina Mohkasi; and The Right Reverend Bishop Sarah F. Davis, Presiding Prelate, 18th Episcopal District about their learning gains during the institute and what they would take away from the experience.
A primary teachers said, “I have learned so much and I would come back again.” Another teacher said, “I expected to be taught difficult things which would not help in my daily work. But what I gained is of a great importance.” A primary teacher said, “The workshop should take at least a week. Three days are not enough for this important lesson.” Finally, a high school teacher commented, “I can certainly be improved by practicing the five E’s (engage, explain, explore, and extend with evaluation taking place at each step). Although it looks time consuming, but I predict the results would be excellent.”
Participating teachers were presented lab coats, commemorative book markers, a book (Science Matters). Selected teachers received a science journal, science book, and lab materials. The lab coats were gifts from the College of Education at the University of Nebraska Omaha.
This was Dr. Mitchell’s second visit to the 18th District. In October, 2005, she conducted two Science/Math Workshops during the Educator’s Conferences in Lesotho and Swaziland. The inaugural Institute participating teachers and their schools were: Francis Laleru (Moruthane A.M.E. Secondary School); Rev. Tseliso Malealea (Johnson-Baker High School); Metsabello Molonyane (Johnson Baker A.M.E. High School); Mamohlaoli Lewaneka (Serutle A.M.E. Secondary School); Madi Buseng Pitso (Serutle A.M.E. Secondary School); Mamotse Mosoeu (Makhaoba Primary School); Limakatso Nketsi (Morifi Primary School); Hopolang Khesa (Lebopo Primary School); Evodia Malakane (Makhoaba Primary School).
9. VILLAGE RECEIVES TOYS, SUPPLIES 45TH SUSTAINMENT BRIGADE SOLDIERS OPEN HEARTS, ADOPT LOCAL COMMUNITY:
Sgt. Kevin McSwain
MOSUL, Iraq—Soldiers from the 352nd Corps Support Battalion delivered toys and school supplies to a Christian village during a humanitarian mission in December a week before Christmas.
The 352nd, a battalion assigned to the 13th Sustainment Command (Expeditionary), visited Pishabur, a small village near the Syrian border and passed out gifts to children.
The company currently supports the 25th Infantry Division for logistical missions.
“We received donations from friends and family in the United States,” said Chaplain (Capt.) Mark Cisco, battalion chaplain and an Itinerant elder in the African Methodist Episcopal Church, “and we gave out soccer balls, toys, and baby beanies.”
The humanitarian mission occurred just in time for the season of giving, and he said this would not have been possible if so many people didn’t sacrifice their time.
“It took a long time to coordinate this particular mission,” he said. “We wanted to deliver the gifts before Christmas, and if it wasn’t for our families back home working hard, this would not have been possible.”
The goal of the mission was to promote community relations and show citizens of the village that service members are here to help.
“Community relations are very important to our mission,” said Maj. Danny Robles, executive officer for the 352nd. “We are showing the people in this village that we are here to help them, and hopefully they will cooperate during future missions in their area.”
Cisco said the choice to visit this village was not by chance. A liaison, a contractor who lives in the area, talks to the local leaders and picks what village service members will visit.
“We coordinate these missions with the help of the local leaders and people of influence in the community,” he said.
“They tell us what problems they are having in their village and we do what we can to help them.”
Khaled Yago Murkus, the elected official of Pishabur, said he was honored to have service members visit his village.
“This is a very special day in the history of our village,” he said. “Many people here have dreamed of the day they would be able to meet an American Soldier. This was like a dream come true, and we hope this will not be the last time.”
Murkus said coalition forces helped them reclaim the Christian village after losing it more than 50 years ago. He said the village has been around for more than 400 years and has been destroyed and rebuilt four different times.
“We have had a hard time here in the past because of our beliefs,” he said. “But with the help of coalition forces, we were able to reclaim our land and rebuild our village.”
The mission was not only helpful to the people in the village; service members were able to experience a part of Iraq they fight to protect but rarely get to see.
“This was also a good time for the Soldiers of the battalion to take time out from their regular job and actually see what kind of affect they have on the local population,” Robles said.
He said Soldiers are able to volunteer for these missions in addition to their regular duties, and he feels it is an experience every service member should be able to enjoy.
“Missions like this help Soldiers see a purpose for being here in Iraq,” Robles said. “It gives service members the chance to make a difference in an individual’s life.”
Editor’s note: Chaplain Mark B. Cisco, D. Min. is the Chaplain, 352 Corps Support Battalion, deployed to Mosul, Iraq and is an African Methodist Episcopal Church minister.
Chaplain, Mark B. Cisco is originally from Liberia, West Africa and is now an American Citizen.
He is a graduate of the Liberia Baptist Theological Seminary (LBTS) and Turner Theological Seminary at the Interdenominational Theological Center (ITC). Chaplain Cisco also holds graduate degree in counseling and psychological Services from Clark Atlanta University and a Doctor of Ministry from Turner Theological Seminary at the ITC.
He is currently in Iraq serving as the Chaplain of the 352 Corps Support Battalion. He is directly responsible for over one thousand soldiers and is the pastor of leading Gospel congregation on the Forward Operating Base (FOB) in Mosul, Iraq.
Chaplain Cisco has coordinated two humanitarian missions for the Children of Iraq. The first humanitarian mission was held on 6 December for the Iraqi School Children in down town Mosul, Iraq; and the second humanitarian mission was implemented on 18 December for a local village in Northern Iraq.
Chaplain Cisco expects to return to the United States in early June 2007. He will be happy to visit your school, community, church and share his pastoral ministry in Iraq. His e-mail address is Mark.Cisco@us.army.mil
Chaplain Cisco is married and has three children.
10. STATE HEALTH COMMISSIONER COMPLETES TERM, RETURNS TO MEMPHIS:
The Rev. Kenneth Robinson, M.D.
Memphis, TN
December 21, 2006
“For the last four years, I have been commuting between my home and church in Memphis, and my work at the Department of Health in Nashville,” Robinson said. “Recently, I informed the Governor of my desire to return to Memphis full-time; first, to my wife Marilynn, and also to my life and work in and with the congregation, communities and systems I serve there.”
On December 20, Governor Bredesen formally announced the upcoming transition of Dr. Robinson from the Administration, at the end of the term on January 19, 2007.
In an expanded statement, Robinson said, “It has been a privilege and a blessing for me to have had the opportunity to serve the citizens of Tennessee as Governor Bredesen’s Commissioner of Health during his very successful first term. With his support, this has also been a particularly productive four years for the Department of Health, during which the Department’s budget has increased by $131 Million, with 460 new employee positions. The Department’s 3500 employees have given leadership to the public and to State government, creating a culture of consciousness for improving the historically poor health status of our citizens.
It is indeed extraordinarily unusual for a governor to incorporate several major Public Health issues into the centerpiece of his agenda, so I leave exceptionally pleased that Governor Bredesen has adopted the prevention of obesity and diabetes, and infant mortality reduction, as major Administrative initiatives. I trust that my early articulation of our state’s low-ranking health status, and his early and ardent roll-out of “Better Health: It’s About Time!” helped to pave the way for his expanded focus today on personal behavior change, community-based coalitions and partnerships, interagency collaborations; and on the need to engage in data-driven redirection of state resources.
I’m confident that Governor Bredesen will continue to focus the state on the epidemic of obesity in children and adults, the burden of cardiovascular disease and diabetes, the prevalence and devastating impact of adolescent pregnancy, the pall of infant mortality, and the shameful racial and ethnic disparities that magnify these issues for minorities in the state. Again, I cannot adequately express my personal gratitude for these four years.”
Statement from Governor Phil Bredesen about Commissioner Robinson:
"Kenneth Robinson leaves a very strong legacy at the Department of Health and I want to thank him for his service to our state. From the first year of this administration, Kenneth has been a champion of better health outcomes for all Tennesseans, especially among our young people, underserved communities and minority communities."
Rev. Dr. Robinson is certain to remain active and highly visible as he has been for the last 25 years in matters involving public health, the elimination of racial health disparities, and access to care for minorities, the poor and uninsured. However, his primary role will once again be at the helm of his progressive church, St. Andrew AME, in South Memphis. When he accepted Governor Bredesen’s invitation into the Cabinet in 2003, it was with the agreement that he would remain at St. Andrew as Pastor, albeit in a reduced capacity. For four years, he has continued to lead the church with the invaluable support and presence of his Co-Pastor – his wife, Marilynn, and a strong management team at the church. He has been in the pulpit every Sunday. St. Andrew recently dedicated its new Worship and Ministry Center, an $8.8M capital expansion project with a 1000-seat sanctuary, an educational wing for the church’s associated charter school, new administrative and ministry offices, and space for community events and congregational fellowships.
“With Governor Bredesen’s overwhelming re-election mandate, and his demonstrated commitment to address several of the issues that were also top priorities for me at the Department of Health, it’s a good time to leave the administration, confident of the Department’s future focus.
It’s also a great time to be back in Memphis, allowing me to focus my efforts on the new growth opportunities afforded by our expanded worship and ministry facilities at St. Andrew. I will be more readily accessible to my members, staff and programs at the church, and more available for the many civic roles I relish renewing in the city. Indeed, my strengths as Health Commissioner were the products of decades of ministry; from building bridges and developing public-private partnerships, from tapping assets and resources to empower families and communities, and from creating systemic approaches to holistic health in communities like South Memphis. I’m both pleased to have had the chance to take these methodologies to scale statewide, while also being particularly excited now about the prospects for the extension of our reach and work at St. Andrew.
I cannot thank my wife, Rev. Marilynn S. Robinson, enough; for her patience, keen insight and advice, ubiquitous presence, and exemplary leadership at St. Andrew during the time of my reduced involvement. While useful for having kept me in touch, E-mail and PDAs clearly pale in comparison to the value she’s added as an exceptional, hands-on Co-Pastor. The prospect of continuing to serve alongside her, and of being at home every night, is the greatest aspect of having completed my term as Commissioner.”
11. A SUMMARY OF TENNESSEE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH ACCOMPLISHMENTS UNDER AME, THE REVEREND KENNETH S. ROBINSON, M.D., COMMISSIONER:
The First Term of Governor Phil Bredesen
January, 2003 - January, 2007
The Tennessee Department of Health:
· Executed, on time, the Governor’s charge to deliver expanded primary care services into 48 County Health Departments, exceeding The Department’s own projections; and efficiently administered other components of the Governor’s Safety Net plan, including new contracts with 24 Community Health Centers operating in over 80 sites. Historically provided critical safety net funding to over 60 faith-based and community-based clinics with the capacity to expand services to uninsured adults.
· Added substantially to the Governor’s MethFreeTN initiative, by successfully securing a disproportionately large, $17.8 Million federal grant (of a total $50 Million federal appropriation) to enhance the delivery of recovery services across the state; with The Department now being cited by the federal government as the most successful grantee in fulfilling HHS’ current priority for this funding stream.
· Executed a massive expansion of the State’s preparedness infrastructure, excelling in the associated state rankings; particularly notable because of Congress’ displeasure with many other states’ utilization of appropriated federal preparedness funding.
· Worked with THA and our state’s EMS network to implement a vital Hospital Resource Tracking System to facilitate disaster communications and triage.
· Successfully countered the prevailing public panic when the nation’s influenza vaccine supply was unexpectedly truncated, and provided at that time sound counsel to the Governor against following some of his peers’ articulated intent to use investigational, international vaccines.
· For the first time, met the Department’s CMS targets for timely investigations of complaints against healthcare facilities on behalf of the most aged and frail of our citizens; successfully prosecuted hundreds of health provider offenders, received national recognition for improving our statewide immunization rates, elevated our cancer registry to heights and standards not previously seen by the federal government, far exceeded the federal government’s goals for screening older, underserved women for breast and cervical cancer, and provided access to treatment for compulsive gamblers.
· Resolved audit findings which had been outstanding for years, and developed a model for State department internal audit procedures.
· Implemented significant enhancements in our information systems and health informatics capabilities, resulting in increased Departmental efficiency, paperless filing of documents and vital records, and expanded web-based services providing public on-line access to data; for instance, ensuring that birth certificates can now be ordered in every County Health Department.
· Provided multilingual resources to increasingly diverse ethnic populations within the state, received new federal funding for facilitating healthy communities of color, gained recognition by the Southeast Regional Office of Civil Rights for our exemplary Title VI compliance efforts, published a landmark report on the health status of Populations of Color, and sponsored an Administration bill establishing the Office of Minority Health in statute, appropriately institutionalizing this function within the work of the Department.
· Followed the Governor’s model for increasing diversity in appointments and contracting, and instituted a major Department-wide approach to Hiring for Diversity, resulting in a 16% increase in representation of minority employees across the Department, and an employee base which more closely resembles the population of the State, and the population we serve.
· Implemented several, substantial service expansions under contract with the Bureau of TennCare, to address the John B consent decrees; performing all the EPSDT screens for children in state custody, operating TennCare’s Outreach/Call Center, and providing on-site, school-based preventive dentistry for 60,000 children a year.
· Expanded the screening of every newborn infant in the state to over 45 metabolic disorders, placing Tennessee at the national forefront of comprehensive newborn screening programs; this year identifying disorders or disease in 126 infants whose timely diagnosis and treatment will considerably improve or perhaps save their lives.
· Built exceptional interdisciplinary public/private partnerships with the healthcare industry; to promote patient safety, to address Tennessee's problem of high usage of prescribed controlled substances, to decrease unintentional deaths, suicides and homicides, and to keep Tennessee prepared for natural or man-made mass casualty events.
· Targeted existing funding to better address the prevention of adolescent alcohol and drug use, and adolescent pregnancies.
· Expanded Home Visiting programs to every county - a best practice for reducing infant mortality and child abuse - and competed successfully for a CDC grant to establish a Pregnancy Risk Assessment Monitoring System (PRAMS) - a statewide population-based survey of new mothers’ behaviors, attitudes and experiences, designed to provide data to reduce adverse birth outcomes, such as pre-maturity, low birthweight and infant mortality.
· Created a national model for a functional and productive interface between Public Health and the Faith Community, through the institution of faith-based health promotion curricula, multi-county interfaith-Public Health teams, media and web-based resources, and contractual partnerships with a wide range of major intermediaries in the faith community ministering to people of color.
12. A.M.E. PREACHER, REV. DR. MARVIN L. CRAWFORD ATTENDING PHYSICIAN PRONOUNCES DEATH OF "THE GODFATHER OF SOUL" THE LATE JAMES BROWN:
Rev. Edrena Houston Brown, M.A.C.E.
Christian Recorder, Staff Writer
The Illustrious Reverend Dr. Marvin L. Crawford, M.D., M.Div., Pastor of Saint Paul African Methodist Episcopal Church, Lithonia, Georgia of the Sixth Episcopal District, was the Attending Physician for The Legendary Godfather of Soul the late Mr. James Brown. According to Dr. Crawford he stated that; "Mr. Brown was admitted to Crawford Long Hospital, Atlanta, Georgia on Saturday, December 23, 2006. He died as the result of an acute coronary syndrome, congestive heart failure on Monday, December 25, 2006 at 1:45 a.m., Christmas Day."
Dr. Crawford was sought by The Advisor and Caretaker long time family friend, Mr. Andre Moses White, The Advisor of James Brown Enterprises, Co-Owner of The Sentinel Bulletin, Atlanta, Georgia and Stock Holder and Board Member of Wayfield food store Chain of Atlanta, Georgia. Mr. David Cannon, President of James Brown Enterprises was also present on Saturday, December 23, 2006 while admitting Mr. James Brown to Crawford Long Hospital.
When asked Dr. Crawford about the last moments, as he shared with Mr. Brown as his attending physician on the day of December 25, 2006? Dr. Crawford shared that; "He was resting comfortable on the bed and he responded kindly as always. At the moment I got the news he was in distress, I could only think we are about to see one of the miracles greatest icons, transcending back to his Maker."
According to Mr. Andre Moses White, Advisor for Mr. Brown, on December 24th "Mr. Brown was feeling better, but the Lord called him home on December 25, 2006. Mr. Brown was God's Man, a Saved Man and a Good Man. I believe God gave him a cup of life and Mr. Brown did feel it. His last advertisement published in the Sentinel Bulletin before his death was "Let's Keep Christ in Christmas and he died on Christmas Day.”
Because of Rev. Dr. Marvin L. Crawford's profound and high quality of professional experience in the medical field expressed by, Mr. White; “We could have not asked for a better doctor than Dr. Crawford. He was attentive to Mr. Brown around the clock and assisted in any possible manner that he could and also prayed with Mr. Brown in doing God's work."
As a highly respected internal medicine physician across the United States, the A.M.E. Connectional Church and in the community, Dr. Crawford is noted for his ability to implement spiritually into patient care and is one of the nation’s authentic experts in this area. Crawford is noted for assisting in the development of the Morehouse School of Medicine curriculum on spirituality and medicine which was one of the first programs in the nation with a media release in over 400 newspapers and other sources.
He is a graduate of Albany State University, where he graduated magna cum laude and pursued his medical training at the University Of Iowa College Of Medicine, while also preparing for ordination in the African Methodist Episcopal Church. Crawford completed a residence program in Internal medicine at the Medical College of Georgia and later received the Master’s In Divinity with honors from Turner Theological Seminary at the Interdenominational Theological Center, Atlanta, Georgia.
Dr. Crawford is a physician at Crawford Long Hospital, Atlanta Medical and Teacher at Grady Teaching Hospital and Morehouse School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia.
13. THE IRAQ WAR AND AMERICA’S ECONOMIC IMPERIALISM:
*Dr. Manning Marable
Several weeks ago, with much media fanfare, the James Baker-Lee Hamilton Committee submitted to President George W. Bush its long-awaited, bipartisan report on the U.S. war in Iraq. On balance, the report provided Bush with a face-saving strategy for pulling out all U.S. combat forces by the beginning of 2008. The Baker-Hamilton report favors an increase of U.S. advisers being embedded inside Iraqi troops, and direct negotiations with regional powers Iran and Syria.
Bush, however, almost immediately distanced himself from key proposals in the Baker-Hamilton report. He now seems prepared to flagrantly flaunt his contempt for the majority of American voters, who purged both the Senate and House of their Republican majorities last November. Why does Bush defy public opinion by pursuing this unpopular war?
The answer lies not in America’s need to “combat Islamic terrorism,” but in the economic necessity for the United States to control international markets and valuable natural resources, such as petroleum. Bush’s economic strategy is that of “neo-liberalism” – which advocates the dismantling of the welfare state, the abolition of redistributive social programs for the poor, and the elimination of governmental regulations on corporations.
In a recent issue of the New York Times (December 5, 2006), Professor Thomas B. Edsall of Columbia University’s Graduate School of Journalism astutely characterized this reactionary process of neo-liberal politics within the United States in these terms: “For a quarter-century, the Republican temper – its reckless drive to jettison the social safety net; its support of violence in law enforcement and national defense; its advocacy of regressive taxation, environmental hazard and pro-business deregulation; its ‘re-moralizing’ of the pursuit of wealth – has been judged by many voters as essential to America’s position in the world, producing more benefit than cost.”
One of the consequences of this reactionary political and economic agenda, according to Edsall, was “the Reagan administration’s arms race” during the 1980s, which “arguably drove the Soviet Union into bankruptcy.” A second consequence, Edsall argues, was America’s disastrous military invasion of Iraq. “While inflicting destruction on the Iraqis,” Edsall observes, “Bush multiplied America’s enemies and endangered this nation’s military, economic health and international stature. Courting risk without managing it, Bush repeatedly and remorselessly failed to accurately evaluate the consequences of his actions.”
What is significant about Edsall’s analysis is that he does not explain away the 2003 U.S. invasion of Iraq and current military occupation as a political “mistake” or an “error of judgment.” Rather, he locates the rationale for the so-called “war on terrorism” within the context of U.S. domestic, neo-liberal politics. “The embroilment in Iraq is not an aberration,” Edsall observed. “It stems from core [Republican] party principles, equally evident on the domestic front.”
The larger question of political economy, left unexplored by Edsall and most analysts, is the connection between American militarism abroad, neo-liberalism, and trends in the global economy. As economists Paul Sweezy, Harry Magdoff and others noted decades ago, the general economic tendency of mature capitalism is toward stagnation. For decades in the United States and Western Europe, there has been a steady decline in investment in the productive economy, leading to a decline in industrial capacity and lower future growth.
Since the 1970s, U.S. corporations and financial institutions have relied primarily on debt to expand domestic economic growth. By 1985, total U.S. debt – which is comprised of the debt owed by all households, governments (federal, state and local), and all financial and non-financial businesses, reached twice the size of the annual U.S. gross domestic product. By 2005, the total U.S. debt amounted to nearly “three and a half times the nation’s GDP, and not far from the $44 trillion GDP for the entire world,” according to Fred Magdoff.
As a result, mature U.S. corporations have been forced to export products and investment abroad, to take advantage of lower wages, weak or nonexistent environmental and safety standards, and so forth, to obtain higher profit margins. Today about 18 percent of total U.S. corporate profits come from direct overseas investment. Partially to protect these growing investments, the United States has pursued an aggressive, interventionist foreign policy across the globe. As of 2006, the U.S. maintained military bases in fifty-nine nations. The potential for deploying military forces in any part of the world is essential for both political and economic hegemony.
Thus the current Iraq War is not essentially a military blunder caused by a search for “weapons of mass destruction,” but an imperialist effort to secure control of the world’s second largest proven oil reserves; Bush also invaded Iraq because it was the first military step of the Bush administration’s neo-conservatives (such as Paul Wolfowitz, now head of the World Bank) to “remake the Middle East” by destroying the governments of Iraq, Iran and Syria.
*Dr. Manning Marable is Professor Public Affairs, History, and African-American Studies at Columbia University, New York City. “Along the Color Line” appears in over 400 publications internationally, and is available at www.manningmarable.net .
14. THE LAST SIN EATER BASED ON THE BEST-SELLING NOVEL BY FRANCINE RIVERS IN THEATERS FEBRUARY 16TH :
“Expertly done . . . original and touching”- Phil Boatwright, Baptist Press
“A wonderful job” – Paula Parker, Buddyhollywood.com
“A Strong Redemptive Theme” – The Dove Foundation
CENTURY CITY, Calif.– A young girl begins a journey to seek out the one man who can save her soul in The Last Sin Eater, coming to theaters on February 16, 2007. “Enlightening while entertaining” (Baptist Press), The Last Sin Eater, explores a community in the Appalachians that practice the belief that a human “sin eater” can discharge the dead of their sins and a young girl preoccupied by her own sense of guilt and mortality, driven to uncover the truth behind the long held tradition. Directed by Michael Landon Jr. and starring Academy Award Winner and Emmy Nominee Louise Fletcher and two-time Golden Globe Nominee Henry Thomas, The Last Sin Eater is based on the award winning novel by Francine Rivers. The Last Sin Eater, marketed by Fox Faith and distributed by The Bigger Picture, can be seen in theaters in more than 128 U.S. and Canadian cities, showing on over 500 screens. Locations and theater information are available at FoxFaithMovies.com.
Local CBA retailers including Family Christian Stores, Lifeway Stores, Berean Christian Stores, Mardel and a number of significant Christian retailers are offering specially priced movie tickets, distribution of Bible study guides and other in-store activities. Fox Faith is making discussion guides, clip DVD’s, and other materials available to its network of more than 90,000 churches, ministries, youth groups, and others organizations for grass roots peer-to-peer marketing.
Synopsis:
When a mysterious man "absolves" her grandmother's sins by eating bread and wine at her grave, 10-year-old Cadi wants the same redemption---while she's still alive! But in her quest for deliverance she uncovers a dark secret that threatens to divide her family. What will happen when the two face each other---and the One who can truly save them based on the award winning novel by Francine Rivers.
About Fox Faith and Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment
Fox Faith is the newly created faith-based label from Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment LLC. Fox Faith was created to provide compelling entertainment to the Christian audience as well as those seeking quality, inspirational and spiritual entertainment. Additional information about specific titles and programs can be found at www.foxfaith.com and www.foxfaithmovies.com.
A recognized global industry leader, Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment LLC is the worldwide marketing, sales and distribution company for all Fox film and television programming on VHS and DVD as well as video acquisitions and original productions. Each year the Company introduces hundreds of new and newly enhanced products, which it services to retail outlets – from mass merchants and warehouse clubs to specialty stores and e-commerce – throughout the world. Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment LLC is a subsidiary of Twentieth Century Fox Film Corporation, a News Corporation company.
For screener and artwork requests,
Visit www.foxpressroom.com or contact
Elliott Wallach 509.323.0111
Elliott@edifymedia.com
CONTACTS:
Elliott Wallach
Edify Media, Inc.
509.323.0111
15. THE SIXTEENTH EPISCOPAL DISTRICT CALENDAR:
- February 5-7, 2007- GDC Meeting, Cape Town, South Africa
- February 14-18, 2007 - The Dominican Republic Annual Conference, Mission David A.M.E. Church, Las Terranas, Dominican Republic; the Rev. Jamie Coplin, pastor/ co-host P. E. (809) 529-5832; the Rev. Abraham Rodriguez Jones, Co-Host Presiding Elder
- February 22-25, 2007 - The Haiti Annual Conference, Port Au Prince, Haiti; St. Paul A.M.E. Church, the Rev. Joel Mehu, host pastor/presiding elder; the Rev. Jean Joel Maurice, co-host presiding elder, sister Elvire Douglas, Administrative Assistant, tel: (509)407-4158
- March 1-7, 2007 - Dr. James Wade and Team, AMEC Department of Church Growth & Development, Evangelistic Crusade, Hickman's A.M.E. Church, Grenada, West Indies
- March 22-25, 2007 - The Guyana/Suriname Annual Conference, Nieuw Nickerie, Republic of Suriname, Shiloh A.M.E. Church, the Rev. Andrew C. Morris-Grant, host pastor/ presiding Elder.
- March 26-April 8, 2007 - Break & Travel Days
- April 1, 2007 - Bishop Tyler Guidry preaching at Shorter A.M.E. Church -Denver, CO
- April 11-15, 2007 - The Virgin Islands Annual Conference, Grady A.M.E. Church, 631 Sunny Acres, St. Croix; the Rev. Jocelyn T. Dowdye, host pastor, 340 778-1099; the Rev. Louis A. C. Davis, host presiding elder, (340) 277-6613
- April 18-22, 2007 - The Jamaica Annual Conference, St. John A. M. E. Church, Palmer's Cross, Clarendon, Jamaica; the Rev. Newton Dixon, host pastor; the Rev. Lebert A. Dawkins, the Rev. Barrington S. Lawrence, the Rev. Lenora Thompson-Prince, co-host presiding elders, Tel. (876) 960-5673
- May 3-6,2007 - The London/Holland Annual Conference, Grady AME Church, Amsterdam, Holland; the Rev. M Dube, Host Pastor, the Rev. Rudolph U. Aaron, host presiding elder tel. 44-0208-844-1747
- May 7-13 Break Week
- May 16-19, 2007 - The Windward Islands Annual Conference, Sealy Memorial A.M.E. Church, St. Michael, Barbados; the Rev. Anthony Parris, host pastor/co host presiding elder; the Rev. Wayne Anthony, co-host presiding elder (868) 680-9772
- May 21-22, 2007 - The 16th Episcopal District Planning Meeting/Dedication of Episcopal Residence, Chapel of Christ Our Redeemer AME Church, Kingston, Jamaica; the Rev. Clarence Turpin, host pastor
For Information about travel to any of the scheduled meetings in the 16th Episcopal District please contact: Ms Celestine Palmer at cwpalmer16thdist@aol.com or the Rev. Stephanie Butler at: info@stephaniebutler.com
16. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
Homegoing services for the late, Rev. Carlis (Buck) Law, associate pastor of Mt. Pisgah A.M.E. Church, Webster, Florida, will be held on Saturday, December 30, 2006 at 11:00 a.m. at Mount Pisgah A.M.E. Church.
The Rev. Dr. George L. Champion, Sr., will deliver the Eulogy, The Rev. J. V. Williams, Pastor and the Rev. LeRoy Kennon serves as the Presiding Elder.
Rev. Law is the husband of Mrs. Matron Law of Webster, Florida and the brother-in-law of Retired Pastor, Rev. I. F. Mitchell, Sr., of DelRay Beach, Florida.
Condolences may be sent to:
Mrs. Matron Law
Mt. Pisgah A.M.E. Church
812 N. W. 8th Street
Webster, Florida 33597
Submitted by: Rev. Edrena Houston Brown
Christian Recorder, Staff Writer
17. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
Mrs. Minnie Tatum, sister-in-law of the Reverend Linda Brown, a Local Elder at Historic Saint Paul in Lexington, Kentucky died on Sunday, December 17 in Bronx, New York. Mrs. Tatum was the sister of the Reverend Brown's husband, Milton Brown.
Service arrangements:
Wake:
Thursday, December 28, 2006
3 pm -8 pm
Butler United Methodist Church
Bronx, New York
Viewing:
Friday, December 29, 2006
9 a.m. to 10 a.m.
Home Going Worship
10:00 a.m.
Butler United Methodist Church
Bronx, New York
Condolences may be sent to:
Mr. Milton and Rev. Linda Brown
C/o Historic St Paul AME Church
251 North Upper Street
Lexington, KY 40507
Home phone: 859/543-2411 (Mr. Milton Brown and Rev. Linda Brown)
Email condolences to: Demples4@juno.com
18. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
The homegoing services of Rev. Joseph Oliver, associate minister responsible for Community Development Outreach will be held Tuesday, January 2, 2007.
11:00 AM
Ward AME Church
1177 W 25th Street
Los Angles, CA 90007
213/ 747-1367 - voice
213/ 748-6251 - fax
Rev. C. Dennis Williams, D. Min - Pastor
pastor-williams@wardame.com - email or
jdupontw@aol.com - Public Relations Commission
Condolences may be sent to his wife, –
Mrs. Jacqueline Oliver
3122 W 43rd Place
Los Angeles, CA 90008
323/ 294-7077
Submitted by:
Mrs. Jackie DuPont Walker, ConsultantSocial Action Commission
19. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICES AND CONGRATULATORY ANNOUNCEMENTS PROVIDED BY:
The Clergy Family Information Center
Bishop Carolyn Tyler Guidry, Chair
Commission on Social Action
Mrs. Ora L. Easley, Administrator
Email: Amespouses1@aol.com
Phone: (615) 837-9736
Voice Mail: (615) 833-6936
Fax: (615) 833-3781
Cell: (615) 403-7751
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.
Archive of The Christian Recorder Online from 2004-2016; Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III, 20th Editor of The Christian Recorder
