Bishop Gregory G. M. Ingram - Chair, Commission on Publications
The Reverend Dr. Johnny Barbour, Jr., Publisher
The Reverend Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III, Editor
1. EDITORIAL – DIGNITY IN DEATH:
Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III
Did you view or listen to the James Brown Celebration that took place in Augusta, Georgia last Saturday (12/30/06)? Did it make you feel good?
I was in seminary with the late Bishop Robert Walters in the sixties. He later became one of the bishops of the U.A.M.E. Church. He was an older student in seminary and we used to talk a lot about ministry. He was always in the big-brother teaching mode and I was in the listening mode. He told me, “All of your sermons will not be ‘home runs,’ and every preacher hits a foul ball every now and then and people understand and forgive you when you are not 100%, but there are times in ministry when you have to be flawless and be 100%; and those times are Holy Communion, baptism and funerals.” And, he reiterated, “Funerals are occasions for visitors, and you don’t want to do or say something that will embarrass your members.”
Let me share my opinion about the James Brown celebration that was held in Augusta; it’s just mine, no one else’s opinion, just mine.
I listened to the James Brown celebration led by the Reverend Al Sharpton that took place in Augusta last Saturday as I was driving from Nashville to Florence, Alabama and listening to the memorial celebration on the radio, I didn’t feel good at all; I was embarrassed by the sheer disorganization of the event. It was clear to me that the leaders didn’t practice what they were going to do. The memorial event was being manufactured as it progressed. Some of that also happens in ill-planned worship services also.
Funerals and memorial services / celebrations are more for the living than for the dead. Those events often put us in touch with how we live our lives and remind us, especially we older folks, that death is an impending reality. In my mind, those are important events that should not be conducted with frivolity. I have attended memorial events and funerals, appropriately done, that have been full of laughter and joy, but tastefully and respectfully done.
Comedians have a field-day parodying black preachers and I am uncomfortable with that. I don’t like the profession of ministry to be fodder for comedians’ jokes.
The James Brown celebration sounded to me, like a “Stepin Fetchit moment.” Let me say clearly, if my human rights are violated, I want the Reverend Al Sharpton and the Reverend Jesse Jackson to be on my team; no doubt about it. As Civil Rights activists, they are among the best in the world. Those two could probably be a great help to President Bush and the nation in our fight against terrorism. Those guys are good at what they do best!
Sharpton shared the story about the casket being so heavy and they couldn’t get it on a flight so he and someone else (I can’t remember who that was) drove all night from Augusta, Georgia to get the casket to New York City. In my mind’s eye, I could see these two black guys hustling a body in the dark of the night from Georgia to NYC. As my daughter-in-law, Joanna, says, “TMI” – too much information. That story wasn’t about James Brown, that story was about two guys hustling a body in the dark of the night – Saturday Night Live could have a field-day parodying that scene. And besides, I have been on airplanes with trucks, tanks, and heavy artillery guns; so no casket is too heavy for an airplane. FedEx will deliver almost any package, no matter how heavy, if one is willing to pay the shipping fee.
The conclusion I came to from the James Brown celebration was, if someone wants to memorialize / celebrate / eulogize the life of a deceased person, call a pastor; a person who deals, on a regular basis, with death and dying and all of the emotions that go with the death event; you don’t call upon Civil Rights activist. Call one of our AME pastor or one of our bishops. Call a pastor who knows how to blend levity and liturgical dignity.
I was also embarrassed about the lack of any Christological or theological perspective. The part about James Brown talking to Peter and giving him advice on how to keep the angelic choir in the right musical key was beyond cute; it was nonsense. James Brown in heaven doing the shuffle – whoa, what kind of “end-times theology” is that? Is that pre-millennialism, post-millennialism, a-millennialism; what is it? I thought that Jesse Jackson was going to pull it in, but then he told the people to “Scream.” And, if that wasn’t enough, he told the people to “scream louder.” Now what was that all about? I hope that we don’t have any impressionable pastors who are going to tell their worshippers to “scream.” Scream for what? I went to the scriptures to see if I could find where Jesus, the apostles or the Old Testament prophets enjoined the people to scream. I couldn’t find that as a worship rubric. I then went to The Discipline to see if I could find the “scream rubric? I called a couple of Baptist preachers to ask for some clarity on the scream rubric. Nada! Nothing!
Is there a teachable moment here? Yes, there is a teachable moment! The teachable moment is that we, AME ministers, should take a moment to brush up on our eschatological understanding of death and the second coming of Christ. We need to know what we believe and be able to clearly and scripturally articulate our Christological eschatology.
The issue is not Al Sharpton or Jesse Jackson, they do not need my affirmation; they are good in their own right. Both of them are on “top of their game.” The question is, “Are we, AME pastors, on top our game.”
Christian ministers, and AME ministers, in particular cannot afford to be frivolous when dealing with Christological eschatology.
And, however we honor deceased persons; it should be done with dignity and respect.
Editor’s note: If some of you lay persons cannot find the definition of some of the terms in this editorial, please call your pastor and ask him or her for any of the definitions.
2. PASSPORTS ARE NEEDED FOR ALL OVERSEAS TRAVEL:
We are a global church and some of us; particularly those of us in the U.S.A. might be given an opportunity to travel overseas. And, especially those in the fourth Episcopal District who might go back and forth to Canada will need a passport. Our overseas brothers and sisters already know the importance of having a passport.
U.S. passports are valid for 10 years. Here is the website:
http://travel.state.gov/passport/passport_1738.html
3. FOUNDER’S DAY RESOURCES WEBSITE:
http://docsouth.unc.edu/church/wright/wright.html
4. NEWS AROUND THE AME CHURCH:
- Sister Ethel Mae Coward, 102, homemaker, died December 25, 2006. She was a member of St. Mark AME Church in Munford, Tennessee. Deaconess Coward was a member of St. Mark AME Church for ninety (90) years. She joined the church in 1916 at the age of 12 and has been an active member, in attendance, until her 102nd birthday, July 29, 2006, when she fell and was not able to regain her strength. She was consecrated a Deaconess by The Right Reverend Vashti Murphy McKenzie at the 2005 Annual Conference. Her longevity of membership and her age at being consecrated a deaconess is historic. The Rev. Patsy T. Brown is the pastor St. Mark AME Church in Munford, Tennessee. She was preceded in death by her husband, Brother Victor Hugo Coward. She is survived by three daughters, Melba Washum of Milwaukee, Helen Harris and Charlene Ashford, both of Memphis; five grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.
- The Rev. Dr. Clement .W. Fugh will be the speaker for the Frankfort-Franklin County Ministerial Association (Ecumenical) Martin Luther King, Jr. Celebration on Sunday January 14, 2006 at the South Frankfort Presbyterian Church on Third and Steele Streets. The program begins at 6:00 p.m.
Submitted by the Rev. Dr. Robert A. Strode, pastor of Historic St. John A.M.E. Church, Frankfort, KY; Office phone, 502.223-5752; Residence, 502 875-0288
- Dolores Cross, the former Morris Brown College president convicted of embezzling millions of dollars in government money to cover the school’s debts, was sentenced Wednesday (1/3/07) to five years probation and a year of home confinement.
- Quinn Chapel AME Church, Chicago held a freedom march that was precipitated by a gang war that was taking place in the public housing complex located a block away from the Quinn sanctuary. The event was a tremendous success. We gathered residents and kids along our march-path. By the time we arrived at Quinn's parking lot for fun activities, we had approximately 100 participants. Shortly after our march, the Chicago Police Dept. executed a major bust of the gangs that were involved in the constant shooting. By bringing public attention to the issues of drugs, gangs, and violence in our community, we achieved the positive results our citizens deserve.
- The Smithsonian Institute's National Museum of African American History and Culture received an "Artifact #1," a pew from Quinn Chapel AME Church, Chicago.
5. RAGSDALE BECOMES 12TH DISTRICT’S FIRST FEMALE PRESIDING ELDER:
The “Lightening Rod” of African Methodism always grounds the electrical shocks he creates with a look of calm indifference and Saturday, December 10, 2006 was no exception. In the midst of a long awaited end to a well- executed planning council, lightening struck the Twelfth Episcopal District as Bishop Richard Allen Chappelle, Sr., presiding prelate, appointed ever so calmly the first female presiding elder in the 12th District, the Rev. Pollie Wallace Ragsdale. The council hosted by the Rev. Isaac N. Hudson and the Avery Chapel AMEC, Oklahoma City, OK leaped, electrified, to its feet as a body and erupted in thundering applause. All of the other Elders’ eyes were glued to the newly appointed presiding elder of the Tulsa District, Central Northeast Oklahoma Conference (CNEOC).
Rev. Ragsdale stood in awe, surprised as her name was read. Stunned, it took her a moment to soak in the history making occasion as others came pouring down the aisles and from the pulpit to offer congratulatory hugs, handshakes and words of encouragement.
Rev. Ragsdale is not new to this aspect of pioneering for women in ministry. She has a whole list of firsts in her thirty (30) year career. She was the first woman to preach in an annual conference, host an annual conference, to preach the opening sermon in an annual conference and to preach during an Episcopal District meeting in the 12th Episcopal District. She was also the first female to pastor a leading charge in the District. She was the first female clergy elected a delegate to a General Conference and the first to preach during a Mid-Year convocation. She is one of the charter members and organizing leaders of the Women in Ministry of the 12th District. She hosted the District’s first Women in Ministry Retreat, the theme of which was “And So They Came” pioneering the format for future meetings.
She has been faithful to the church her entire life. Born a P.K. (preacher’s kid) on a plantation in Lucy, TN, to the late presiding elder William Marshall and Mrs. Pauline Jones Miller, she learned to “crawl, walk and talk in an A.M.E. parsonage.” She is one of four daughters born to the couple. One sister, Mollie Miller, is her twin. Ragsdale jokingly and lovingly calls Mollie her “clone” even though Mollie is the older of the two by minutes because Mollie has been very supportive of her throughout her ministry. She reflected momentarily on what it meant to no longer be her twin’s pastor. She stated, “Mollie is a retired educator from the Tulsa school district and an outstanding teacher whose skills will enhance the training aspect of my role as presiding elder."
Ragsdale and her family moved to Taft, OK in 1958 then to Tulsa in 1960 where she has lived ever since. She received her early education in the Tulsa public school system. Before accepting her call to the ministry she entered the nursing field. She has received numerous certificates of training. She studied four years at the Jackson Extended Seminary under the tutelage of Deans J. A. Watkins, R. K. Young and B. S. Roberts.
She entered the ministry in 1977 and received her first pastoral appointment to Bethel, Bartlesville, OK in 1981. She has pastored with longevity at numerous charges since then. She pastored St. Paul – Tulsa and hosted the most recent Central Northeast Oklahoma Conference with her usual flair of effective and grand style.
Well renowned for her work throughout the Episcopal District, this was one of the defining moments in her career. She is also a hard worker in the Tulsa, Muskogee area. Besides all of her “firsts” accomplishments, she has served as conference trustee and until recently was vice chairperson of the Central Northeast Oklahoma Conference Board of Trustees. She is a member of the Conference Board of Examiners. She served as Christian Education Director for 15 years and conference treasurer of the Women in Ministry. For eight (8) years she served as the charter first vice president of 12th Episcopal District Women in Ministry.
A humble person, she perceives herself as one who knows the struggle of the ministry. Whenever she does something she says, “I strive to do my best.”
She loves to see people happy and states, “I believe in rejuvenating people who say they couldn’t and watching them become people who say I can.”
She is the mother of two daughters by the late Oliver Wallace, Jr., Alpha and Sayonara. She has three lovely grand children and two great grandchildren. Widowed at a young age, she stayed single for many years building her ministry before marrying Mr. Charles Ragsdale 12 years ago.
Civic affiliations include the AARP, Eastern Star, one of the Heroines of Jericho, Southern Christian Leadership Congress (SCLC), the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP), the Tulsa Metropolitan Ministry and the Christian Ministerial Alliance of Tulsa.
She’s planning her work as presiding elder. She is contemplating a “Roast the First Female Elder” fundraiser to finance what she hopes will “rejuvenate the Tulsa District.” She envisions advancing African Methodism by church planting in developing regions of Eastern Oklahoma.
Mrs. Ann Gilkey, 12th Episcopal District Public Relations Director
Article Interview by: Rev. Diane Burl, Pastor of Quinn Chapel AME Church, Fort. Smith, AR
- Metropolitan AME Church, Washington, DC, under the leadership of the Rev. Dr. Marie M. Phillips Braxton, has published the book, When I Touched: Testimonies of God’s Transforming Power, a collection of personal stories that shaped the faith and lives of some of the women at Metropolitan AME Church. The book is full of heart-warming stories. To order the book call the church office: 202.331-1426
6. THE GLOBAL CORNER - THE SELFLESS SERVICE OF THE WOMEN OF FAITH:
*Rev. Teboho G. Klaas
Tourism is listed among the sources of revenue through which economic regeneration takes place in the developing countries. This is especially true for countries in Southern Africa. Statistically, economists inform us in South Africa that for every eight tourists in our country, employment is created for one person unemployed. Certainly, I believe also, that for those employed their jobs are sustained as the tourists spend in the various industries in the country, including the hospitality, entertainment, transport, arts and cultural industries.
In the third quarter of 2006, we have seen a number of Church-driven tourism ventures taking place in this part of the world to which the people and the economies of the countries in Southern Africa reaped some benefits. The countries which I am certain have benefited from the recent visitations include Lesotho, Namibia and South Africa. For this, we are grateful.
Although Connectionalism in the recent times endured some intense criticisms for some of its perceived omissions, we must not be blinded to the fact that it was in the spirit of Connectionalism we witnessed contingents of the members of our Church coming to the shores our countries to make a contribution to our economies. For this reason, and many others, we must celebrate the fact that we are a Connectional Church even as we wrestle with its meaning for us all.
Without prejudice to other touring groups from the A.M.E. Church-driven ventures which visited the shores of our countries in Southern Africa, I am writing with a specific purpose of acknowledging the recent group of women from the shores of the United States, led by the able and visionary leadership of Rev. Dr. Cecilia Bryant. The model of their visitation to Southern Africa during the Advent (2006) prompts my writing this piece. I am confident that the Leadership of the 18th and the 19th Episcopal Districts will officially acknowledge this visit, if not already acknowledged.
Strongholds moved and shaken
I was personally overwhelmed by the goodwill and compassion evidenced in the visionary leadership of the Rev. Dr. Cecilia Bryant, the Supervisor of the 5th Episcopal District. Earlier in the year, I read an announcement of this visit in the Christian Recorder Online. From the announcement, it was clear that this was not going to be the ordinary kind of tourism to the mountainous kingdom of Lesotho and the region. I since prayed for it because I knew it was absolutely necessary.
Indeed, a strong contingent of eighty women of goodwill and compassion from the shores of the United States of America did come to our shores; led by Mother Cecilia Bryant (I prefer this title because she is undoubtedly a mother. If you don’t trust me on this, check the delegation and see who part thereof was; distinguished women of faith they were, mothers in their own rights and yet they were willing to come under her wings and visionary leadership to be used purposefully of God). Some were AMEs and others were not. They were a team highly-charged with spirituality and possessing a multiplicity of skills; some were Pastors and others were Healthcare Professionals. Primarily, they came for impartation and pledged their solidarity with the people of the Lesotho, especially women and children who are at the receiving end of impoverishment and debilitating diseases.
Doubtlessly, the strongholds in Lesotho were moved and shaken, as they gave personal attention to people who were vulnerable to death, poverty and disease. They ministered to them spiritually and physically, collaborating with healthcare professionals of that country. They brought life to many who do not have access to medical care and taught us that it is possible to be true to the mission and purpose of the A.M.E. Church; alias; “…. to minister to the spiritual, intellectual, physical, emotional and environmental needs of all people by spreading Christ’s liberating gospel through word and deed…..”
Smiles were granted and restored to the girl-child in Lesotho. They were the embodiment of the Hope Christ is to children lacking opportunities, love and lost the urge to dream for anything better than their reality. Undoubtedly, these children were made “O-L-D” by the impartation of these women of faith, if Bishop Adam Richardson’s book (Headlines to Homilies) is anything to go by in order to explain this experience. They offered them Opportunities, Loved them and created an atmosphere for them to Dream to be who God has them to be.
By the testimony of the words of some of the members of the group, it is clear that they did not come just to tour but to spend themselves for the sake of Christ and His Church. They spent their own resources to come, stay and work in the areas of deployment by the Spirit of God, who revealed this ministry in and through Mother Cecilia Bryant.
The Global Women’s Advent Service
Hundreds of AMEs and non-AME in the 19th Episcopal District gathered at the F. H. Gow A.M.E. Church (Orlando West, in Soweto) in the evening of Wednesday, December 13th, 2006. Among the non-AMEs were Rev. Motlalepula Chabaku (a Methodist Preacher, former Speaker in the Free State Provincial Legislature and a Member of the Gauteng Provincial Legislature) and Pastor Meshoe (a member of the National Assembly and the wife to the President of the African Christian Democratic Party). These were an addition to a non-AME musical group which rolled the congregation to the Rock of Ages in an awesome way; not to mention individuals who heard the call and obliged by joining the service. It was an Ecumenical Advent Service; denominational labels did not preoccupy the worshippers but Praise and Thanksgiving was flowing out of their mouths. God, than doctrinal and denominational differences, was acknowledged as the One and the only One from whom all our blessings flow.
Satan licked his wounds that evening; the party in hell was abruptly called off and the cake was spoiled. The Scripture was fulfilled in our hearing and presence, “do not touch my anointed, do my prophets no harm (1 Chr 16:22; Ps 105:15)” as the worshippers prayed healing and deliverance over the health of some of the members of the visitors, who took ill on their way to the service. The bus had to u-turn back to the hotel but the Advent Service proceeded.
An expectant preacher, Rev. Fredolene Manganye (the Pastor of St. Paul A.M.E. Church and the wife to the host Pastor, Rev. Frans Manganye), delivered a purposeful and powerful sermon which unsettled and stirred consciences, punctuated with personal testimonies – “WORD ALONE IS NOT ENOUGH.” Sermons are often preached to entertain but this was not intended to make people to just feel good. It purposefully convinced people, offered Christ to sinners, extended an invitation and built people up, in line with the object of preaching in the A.M.E. Church.
On behalf of Mother Bryant and the contingent, Rev. Dr. Mankekolo Mahlangu-Ngcobo and the President of the Payne Theological Seminary later joined the service, just before preachment, and delivered a message from Mother Bryant and the visitors. The message was accompanied by a financial contribution towards the work undertaken in the 19th Episcopal District, which the Presiding Elder of the Greater Johannesburg District, Rev. Mexico, received on behalf of Bishop James L. Davis.
The Humility of Service
The profound aspect of the selflessness of these women of faith is hidden in the attitude which shaped their undertaking in and throughout this visitation. Even when they had accomplished what they did in the space of two weeks, instead of patting themselves on their shoulders, they took the seat of humility and marveled at what the Lord did through them. Instead of standing on a high pedestal of their achievement, they positioned themselves in the seat of humility. I mean women with impeccable credentials and powerful in their own rights were rather stunt themselves about what had been done for Christ and the Church through them. I vividly recall seeing their eyes wet with tears, relating their encounters.
Mother Bryant, herself, displayed this humility and would not be pumped to think too highly of herself. For her, this initiative was evidently not for herself-aggrandizement but the cross she had to bear with Lord.
This gesture was so meaningful, bringing Christ into Christmas. I remain prayerful to the Lord for the prosperity of all these selfless women of faith. Let the Grace of God abound in you. I salute your determination to right the wrongs systems create. Your act was not so much to prove that God lives but to point out to the downtrodden that God is at work for their deliverance, healing and salvation.
You have proven that there is another way beyond mere tourism and pity that is often exhibited in many ventures, some of which come in through Church ventures.
Because He Lives, I am
*Rev. Teboho G. Klaas
The Director: Health Programme
South African Council of Churches
9th Floor, 62 Marshall Street, Johannesburg 2001
P.O. Box 62097, MARSHALLTOWN 2017
Tel.: (+27) 011 241 7812 Fax: (+27) 011 492 1448/9
Mobile: (+27) 082 412 2960
Email: tgk@sacc.org.za
7. ST. PAUL A.M.E. CHURCH JACKSONVILLE CONTINUES THEIR SPIRITUAL JOURNEY “DARING TO DREAM AGAIN”:
“The Importance of Planning, Organization and Structure in the A.M.E. Church”
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, began their Spiritual Journey June 1, 2005, and celebrated “Half-time Sunday” on December 17, 2006. Our visionary leader was led by God to organize a stewardship campaign in preparation for the future of St. Paul. The original dream began as we moved from Houston and Johnson Streets to Myrtle Avenue, now, New Kings Road. With the purchase of land on the corner of New Kings and Richardson Roads, we are “daring to dream again” as we plan for adequate parking, additional buildings and more space. There were many repairs needed and with the growth of the congregation, we needed more adequate, reliable transportation, so the purchase of a passenger bus was part of Pastor Zanders’ vision and our dream.
To assist with the organization of our Spiritual Journey, we acquired the services of InJoy, a Christian company that helps churches and other groups with stewardship campaigns. The leadership was organized and our “journey” began with many planning meetings, much prayer and structure, which yielded many pledges and offerings at the end of May in 2005. We began repairs on many plaguing problems and purchased our new passenger bus in June. As the pledges and “daring to dream again” offerings came in, we were blessed with additional resources to bring our dreams to fruition. However, we were not expecting, nor were we mentally prepared for the challenges ahead.
Wednesday, June 29, 2005 was a very stormy, rainy day and torrential rains fell for over an hour before Pastor Zanders’ Bible Study began at 6:30 in the evening. As the staff prepared for Bible Study, one of them noticed water coming in under the door in the area nearest the communications equipment closet; Pastor Zanders’ robes were in there also! She moved equipment from the floor to higher levels and took Pastor Zanders’ robes into his office with the news of an impending flood; he remained calm and said a prayer. All staff members went into immediate action in trying to stop the water from entering the building. At the same time, people were arriving for Bible Study. We put God first and continued our “Wednesday in the Word.”
The rain continued to fall and flood the administration building and sanctuary. After Bible Study, God showed that He was in charge and all we had to do was trust Him. He’d sent a future member of the St. Paul family to Bible Study for the first time that night. She’d learned of our present flood issue when announced at the end of Bible Study and walked with Pastor Zanders to assess it. God sent a City Administrator of Public Works! The lower administrative offices and our sanctuary were flooded from overflow of the retention pond! The following day, there were city inspectors, reporters and television cameras all over our campus. We were on a spiritual journey only God could foresee. “There can be miracles when you believe; though hope is frail, it’s hard to kill.”
Without the proper organization and structure of the church, nothing would’ve been accomplished. Because of the pledges and offerings from our spiritual journey, we were able to pay for the very extensive, immediate repairs to our edifice. As a result of the flood, Pastor Zanders’ visions now included complete renovations to our sanctuary and lower offices. After approval from the Official Board, preparations for our renovations began. We finished 2005 in our Sanctuary and moved to our Chapel for Worship Services while the renovations were completed in the other building. We anticipated completion by Easter of 2006 and God brought that to fruition also. During Official Board Meetings and Church Conferences, all income and expenditures were detailed so everyone was aware of our progress.
We celebrated one year of our spiritual journey in June, 2006 and thanked God for all He had accomplished through Pastor Zanders and the Saint Paul family. We were blessed with a new passenger bus, lift station, land clearing, drying out of the administration building and sanctuary after the flood, renovations to both areas, we purchased new flood insurance, new top-line audio and video equipment was installed in separate rooms, worship monitors, reupholstered all of the congregational and pulpit pews, installed new carpet, new ceramic tile in the offices and narthex, new chandeliers, purchased new Dell computers for the Technology Center, and the blessings continue. Each time money was spent, it had been approved by the Official Board. To keep up with all that was accomplished, persons only needed to attend Official Board Meetings and Church Conferences. Everything was detailed on paper and explained thoroughly – which exemplifies the importance of organization.
During “Half-time Sunday” on December 17, 2006, the congregation was blessed with a video program created by our media team’s very gifted “video master”, Brother Randy Bryant, with voice over by the Steward Pro Tem, Brother Willie Martin. The video detailed our Spiritual Journey from the beginning to present. The video presentation mimicked an actual NFL game and halftime show in that our journey has been filled with tackles, hard hits, fumbles and missed field goals… but God! He has blessed us with His defensive and offensive lines, allowing us to sack the enemy, giving us interceptions in their end zone; God blessed us with victorious first downs and game winning touchdowns. He continues to bless our journey as we prepare our youth and build the future St. Paul A.M.E.C. Jacksonville.
Half-time Sunday continued in the evening with the first Church Conference of the new conference year. Pastor Zanders presented a complete booklet of information containing leadership groups, ministries, contact names and numbers, financial information, and a complete, color-code, detailed calendar. Staff members spoke about their positions, how they could serve the congregation and others, and entertained questions. Screen presentations of forms and outlined details were shown on the worship monitors for a visual impact.
As we enter 2007, St. Paul A.M.E. Church is organized through this conference year. We held 1st Quarterly Conference on December 28, 2006, led by our Presiding Elder of the Alachua-Central District, The Reverend Joseph Sanchez. Pastor Zanders presented the informational booklet and detailed calendar to Elder Sanchez who commented, “The purpose of Quarterly Conferences is to report on the past quarter and plan for the upcoming one. St. Paul is definitely way ahead with such an organized, detailed calendar prepared before 2007.” Being blessed with an organized 11th District overall, Presiding Prelate, Bishop McKinley Young, St. Paul has an impeccable example to follow. We continue our Spiritual Journey led by God through His visionary, our Shepherd, Pastor Marvin C. Zanders, II, supported by his wife, Lady Winifred H. Zanders, sons, Marvin and Micah, and his flock, knowing that God is in complete control of our destiny. Our trust in Him knows no boundaries as we move through the second half, completely organized. Our congregation continues to grow as God gives the increase, and we continue to plan and build our future through our Spiritual Journey: Daring to Dream Again. There’s a place for you at St. Paul A.M.E. Church, Jacksonville.
THE CHAPLAINS CORNER:
- By Maj. Kirk Slaughter
Commander, 210th MPAD
MOSUL, Iraq - In one of the most dangerous and poverty-stricken areas of Mosul, two battalion commanders set out to bring happiness to Iraqi school children.
Lt. Col. Steven Eveker, commander 352nd Corp Support Battalion, and Lt. Col. Mohammad, commander 222nd Iraqi Army worked numerous days coordinating between Mosul officials, the chaplains office at Forward Operating Base Diamondback, and Iraqi and American troops.
“This was one of the largest joint humanitarian missions conducted in Mosul during daylight hours since Operation Iraqi Freedom,” Eveker said. “Most missions conducted by the 352nd CSB occur under curfew hours, which really limit the Soldiers’ contact with the local population.”
The operation included more than 1,400 small bags of school supplies, 35 kerosene heaters, more than 50 boxes of clothes, more than 200 umbrellas, and 42 backpacks that were ready to be delivered to about 1,350 children at two schools in downtown Mosul, Chaplain (Capt.) Mark Cisco said (Chaplain Cisco is endorsed chaplain by the African Methodist Episcopal Church).
“The initial planning for the mission began in early October,” Cisco said. “Numerous email messages and letters were mailed to friends, families, churches, and supporters of the 352nd CSB requesting school supplies, clothing, and heaters for the classrooms.”
Approximately 30 soldiers from the 352nd CSB, 1345th Transportation Company, 714th Transportation Company, and the 399th Combat Support Hospital, went out into the community and interacted with residents while being protected by the Iraqi Army, which was pre-positioned on rooftops and street corners during the two hour mission.
A casual conversation took place between the two commanders as they walked down the middle of the streets of Mosul from the first school to the second school. Iraqi adults and children seemed excited, and smiles could be seen on their faces, as they walked along the sidewalks and occasionally made contact with IA and American soldiers.
The two commanders led the parade of soldiers, the unit ministry team, and reporters through what used to be labeled as a very dangerous street in Mosul.
“Lt. Col. Eveker is very well-liked, trusted and respected in the 222nd IA and throughout the community of Mosul,” Mohammad said. “He is a good man and we work well together, and that is why we can do humanitarian missions like this.”
“Lt. Col. Mohammad understands the complexities of the military, economic, political, and religious challenges for the city of Mosul,” Eveker said. “This is what makes him a great leader and commander. He is fighting for a freer Iraq and a more democratic Iraq. His soldiers are very disciplined and that is why we were able to walk down the streets of this city while they protected us.”
Once inside the second school, the two commanders met with the school principal, who appeared surprised at the visit. A short meeting – with tea – took place, and then both commanders went into a classroom and started handing out school supplies to the students.
“When we first went into these schools the children appeared terrified and scared of the Iraqi soldiers and me,” Eveker said. “The most rewarding thing about this mission was how quiet, timid, and thankful these children were. And as we left their classrooms they would burst out with laughter and excitement as to what had just happened.”
“Can we make an impact on every child in Mosul? Probably not,” he said. “But we did make an impact on the children we saw today.”
As the two commanders walked back up the street to their vehicles off in the distance one could hear the sounds of two suspected bombs go off.
More than 1,000 children, ages 7-13, received school book supplies and candy during this joint humanitarian mission.
“For our soldiers to see the indigent population and feeling the effects of a war torn nation in the daylight was a memory that will be forever etched in their minds,” Sgt. Charles Sebok, 352nd CSB Chaplains assistant, said.
8. THE GLOBAL CORNER - AME-INDIA REPORT FOR DECEMBER:
God has indeed been very great in guiding us through the past year. 2006 happens to be a landmark year in the history of AMEC, as AME begins its ministry in India for the first time.
We are grateful to God for God’s guidance in bringing about twenty-six churches of AME-India. There are many more churches waiting to join AME. The month of December had been quite busy for all the churches as they were engaged in preparing for the special services, while being in the festive spirits. Representing AME we were invited to deliver the Christmas and New Year message to the people encouraging them to renew their commitments and press on in their faith.
Sarah and Rev. Abraham have travelled extensively during the last month, visiting these churches to encourage them in this festive season. We praise God for the protection and travel mercies. We were able to help in providing small gifts to the children to encourage them, as well as provide some clothes, rice and mats to the widows, the poor and the destitute.
On 26th December the Nepali Church at Bangalore had conducted a Gospel meeting, which was attended by 400 people, mostly coming from the North-Eastern part of India, Nepal, Tibet, Sikkim, and other Nepali speaking people. Rev. Abraham delivered God’s sermon during this occasion and it was translated by Pastor Khrist Pal Rai into Nepali language. The Nepali congregation which began with just five people two years back has grown to fifty and still keeps growing. Seven new converts are ready for baptism and more are expected to come forward in the coming months. We request you for your valuable prayers for Pastor Khrist Pal Rai (and his family) as he gives leadership to this church.
A Children’s Rally was held on 16th December at Tirusulam, Chennai, in which around 300 children from the surrounding attended this programme. There was a lot of display of talents in this occasion. Pastor Paulraj who has pioneered a new ministry here wants to tap the young talents to strengthen the Sunday School. Kindly remember him and his ministry in your valuable prayers.
At Ammanambakkam, a lady named Jayanthi who was suffering from some unknown sickness for the last two years as a result of witchcraft, has been healed through fasting prayers. Her whole family has accepted Jesus as their personal saviour and have opened up their house for a new cell group to meet regularly. Praise the Lord for it.
In the same town a new cell group has begun at the Police Colony. Request your prayers for four Hindu families who are regularly attending this cell would come to know the Lord.
At Melachery a Hindu bus-conductor Shunmugam who was suffering from severe stomach-ache was healed after prayers and now his whole family are regularly coming for worship.
At Attoor eight new Hindu seekers are attending the cell groups, kindly pray for their salvation.
Pastor Samuel from Kancheepuram reports that he had organized a meeting for the first time in which he distributed prayer oil to 150 people, as a result of it five Hindu ladies and two Hindu men who had healing experiences have come to know the Lord and have accepted Jesus as their personal Saviour. Pastor Samuel also informs that there are four people ready for baptism. Kindly pray for their spiritual maturity.
In another occasion Pastor Samuel and the youth of his church went out on bicycles covering Tiruvannamalai district and distributed 3000 tracts on 17th December 2006. Please pray for the Holy Sprit to minister to the people as they read the tracts.
Pastor Samuel is a Hindu convert, who has planted a church in a place where there were no Christians. He is very enthusiastic and zealous for the Lord. He is also very creative in his ministry. The church does not have electricity and in the rainy season they struggled a lot, because during the rains the church became a place of refuge for many people. On behalf of AME-India we have helped them in acquiring the electricity for the church. Please pray for Pastor Samuel, as he had a heart attack recently, he is slowly recuperating, he needs complete healing.
As we have entered into the New Year we expect that God is going to do greater things to establish God’s rule in India and the world, as we attempt to assist God in this venture. Let us join together in prayer for the establishment of AMEC in India.
Thanking you for your valuable prayers.
Yours Co-workers in Christ,
Ms. Minnie Sarah & Rev. Abraham Peddiny
AME-India
9. THE 152ND SESSION OF THE MISSOURI ANNUAL CONFERENCE HELD IN GRAND STYLE:
The 152nd Session of the Missouri Annual Conference was held October 25-29, 2006 in North St. Louis County, and co-hosted by Ward Chapel A.M.E. and Christ Our Redeemer A.M.E. Churches, pastored by the Reverends Marvin L. Sullivan and Edmond E. Lowe, respectively. The main venue was the St. Louis-Airport Hilton hotel. Although this was the first time for either of these congregations to host an Annual Conference, there was no evidence that this dynamic duo were novices. This was one of the finest Missouri Annual Conferences ever to be hosted.
On Sunday, October 22, the pre-conference musical of the Missouri Women’s Missionary Conference Society (MCWMS) was the first activity and set the tone for the entire week. The Missouri Conference Choir, under the direction of Bro. Kenton Saunders, Jr. presented a high praise service in song. One of our own, of the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra performed a selection as special guest conductor.
The following evening, Monday, the Women In Ministry, with the Rev. Beverly Stith as president raised the Conference one step higher in the presentation of “Those Nine Preaching Women.” Nine women clergy preached on each of the fruits of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23). Our beloved Bishop, the Rt. Rev. John Richard Bryant, taking advantage of a teaching moment reminded the audience that we should never confuse the fruit with the gifts. Many people have gifts, but the measure of a person’s spiritual walk is the quality of the fruit, not the gifts.
The MCWMS continued their ministry on Tuesday evening with their “Roll Call of Angels, and Wednesday during the hour of power. The guest speaker during the Wednesday noon service was Her Excellency Molelekeng Ernestina Rapolaki, Ambassador of the Kingdom of Lesotho. She spoke to the Conference about the effect of the AIDS epidemic in her country and was extremely grateful for the assistance provided by the A.M.E. Church. Supervisor, Rev. Dr. Cecilia Williams Bryant was leading a campaign for individuals to purchase bricks to build an orphanage in Lesotho.
The Annual Conference officially opened the morning of October 25, with the roll call of the clergy and lay members of the Conference. The annual sermon was preached by Rev. Alvin Smith, pastor of St. Paul A.M.E. Church, the Mother Church of the Conference. The message was titled “When Is Enough, Enough?” the scripture text was I Kings 19:3. Our hearts burned! Many were encouraged to not give up, remain steadfast, and continue putting their trust in the Lord.
The Missouri Conference Lay Organization held their annual service on Friday under the leadership of President Lamar Rose. The speaker for the evening was Rev. Gill Ford, Region Four Director of the NAACP. On Saturday day evening the MCYPD under the direction of YPD director, Theresa Pool, treated the Conference to a dinner theatre by the youth. The youth presented “History, the Way We See It” which consisted skits and biblical references about history from their perspective.
Other highlights of the Conference were:
- Christian Male Witness Night held Thursday evening. Mr. Charles Dooley, St. Louis County Executive was presented as the Sons of Thunder Award for his outstanding witness and leadership in the community. Bishop Willie James Ellis of New North Side Baptist Church preached the sermon, “The Rain Will Come Again.”
- Ordination and Holy Communion service was Saturday morning; the Rev. Dr. Michael Battle, President of Interdenominational Theological Center, delivered the ordination sermon.
- The Rev. Portia Cavitt of the Kansas-Nebraska Conference delivered the noonday sermon of Thursday; “Stay on the Ship” from Acts 27:31.
- The Friday hour of power sermon was preached by newly ordained, Rev. Matthew Shannon, “Thin Line between Obedience and Disobedience” from Deuteronomy 28:1-6.
- Seven new licentiates were admitted on trial into the Annual Conference.
- Five Mothers were consecrated Deaconess
- Four preachers were ordained deacons.
- Two deacons were ordained elders.
- Two new charges entered the Conference, St. Stephen and Imani.
- Bishop Bryant reported that 15 churches in India were under the umbrella of the 5th Episcopal District.
- Newly elected Missouri Senator Claire McCaskill was present during Closing Worship service.
The closing Worship and Commissioning service was Sunday, October 29, and Bishop Bryant was the preacher. His sermon reminded the conference about “Serving the Lord” and referred to “James, a servant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ” as a positive role model for servant-hood. The Mother Conference of the 5th Episcopal District is looking forward to a year of “Serving Well” under the leadership of our presiding elders the Reverends W. Bartalette Finney, and C. Jessel Strong. We praise God for the 160 baptisms, 373 conversions and 491 new members He added to the Conference. Let us always be forever mindful, “that unless souls are saved, nothing is saved.” And to God be the glory!
Submitted by the Rev. Sandra E. Burton,
Missouri Annual Conference Public Relations Reporter
Pastor, Immanuel A.M.E. Church
10. 2006 YOUTH SUMMITS “ROCK” 7TH DISTRICT:
During the Seventh Episcopal District’s 2006 series of annual conferences, a new and exciting concept was added to the pre-conference activities. On the Friday and Saturday preceding each of the annual conferences, a “Youth Summit” was conducted by the Christian Education Department under the leadership of Bishop Preston Warren Williams II, presiding prelate and President of the Council of Bishops, and Ms. Kabrina Bass, Episcopal Christian Education (CED) Director. During the summer and fall, a total of 6 Youth Summits were held at high schools located in each conference with a total of more than 2,000 youths and 600 adult chaperones who participated. According to Ms. Bass, “The goal of the Youth Summits is to address the Christian education needs of children ages 6 to 15 with activities specifically designed for their overall growth process.”
On Friday and Saturday, August 19th and 20th, the Palmetto Annual Conference held the first Youth Summit which took place at Kingstree High School with more than 200 youths who participated. One week later, over 450 young persons, chaperones and volunteers gathered at Sneed Middle School in Florence, SC for the Northeast Annual Conference Youth Summit which was conducted under the direction of Rev. T. A. Johnson, Conference CED Director; Sis. Omijean Timmons, Florence-Dillion District CED Director; Sister Phyllis Reaves, Marion District CED Director; Bro. W. M. Jefferson, Sumter District CED Director; Rev. Herbert L. Temoney, Dean of Florence-Dillion Christian Education; and many others who instructed children about Salvation, the Scriptures, Church Etiquette, the Parts of the Church, AME History, Manhood, Womanhood, the Bishops and Episcopal Districts of the Church; and also led the members of the summit in praising God through Praise Teams, Mime Ministries and Living History. Bishop Preston W. Williams II also dined and fellowshipped with the youth, reinforcing his commitment to make a difference in the lives of our young people.
On September 8th & 9th, a refreshing dimension was added to the Columbia Annual Conference’s pre-conference activities in the form of an innovative and fun filled Youth Summit. Over 650 youth and adults from across South Carolina assembled at Newberry High School where their minds were challenged with exciting and informative topics such as: AME Beliefs & Structure, Church Liturgy, Biblical Studies, and Career Exploration. Many young people took part in a well planned exploration trip and all were blessed with words of motivation from Bishop Preston W. Williams II, who challenged the church to provide a more child friendly environment. One week later, the South Carolina Annual Conference held their Youth Summit at Woodland High School with more than 400 youth and adults who attended.
On September 29th and 30th, preceding the Piedmont Annual Conference, and under the leadership of Rev. Charles R. Watkins, Piedmont Conference CED Director, and Mrs. Margaret Wilson and Ms. Sarah Williams, Presiding Elder District CED Directors, more than 425 young people gathered at Abbeville High School to receive instruction on the Pentateuch and the Bishops of the Church, among various other areas of study. One week later, the Central Annual Conference held the sixth and final Youth Summit which drew approximately 500 young people. The youth were engaged with many fun-filled and educational activities including a Tail Gate party sponsored by the Sons of Allen, and all young people were invited to attend SC State University’s football game. Thanks to Bishop Williams and his Christian education staff, who had the depth of vision and power of fore sight to implement this tremendous series of educational summits, the Seventh Episcopal District is the better because of the AME Youth Summits that took place here.
Each Friday evening under the theme, “Let the Praise Begin,” children were encouraged to express their own personal ways of praising God through non-traditional worship experiences such as dancing, praise and mime teams, and a drum choir. In line with Bishop Williams and the Episcopal CED Department who think “outside the box,” the youth were engaged with fun worship exercises such as dancing the classic “Electric Slide,” as well as the brand new “Lean & Rock With It,” and “Walk It Out.” After warming up, the children attended classes from approximately 9 to 10 PM and then went to bed.
Bright and early each Saturday morning the day began under the theme, “Meditation in the Open Gardens.” Between 7:30 and 8 AM boys and girls prayed separately, often holding hands outside in the fresh morning air. From 9 to 10 AM they attended workshops on a variety of subjects designed to under gird their foundation of biblical knowledge as well as advance their overall growth process. After lunch, they attended a class entitled, “Living History,” where they learned historical facts about various areas in South Carolina where they live. After dinner, they attended a workshop called, “Faith Prints,” where each child explored the concept that their soul has a singularly unique print just like their finger or foot prints. Here, children gave a special offering to God such as their lives to Christ; as well as prayers for wellness, peace, closer relationships with their parents, and thankfulness. According to Ms. Bass, “This is the first time an AME district has coordinated Youth Summits on an Episcopal level and there are plans to continue these ground breaking summits with the coming of the Seventh District’s 2007 series of annual conferences.”
11. ALUMNI FOUNDERS DAY SCHEDULE, TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 6, 2007:
8:30 am: 2nd Annual Alumni Breakfast, ITC Cafe
Speaker: Dr. C. T. Vivian, Civil Rights Activist
Cost: $15.00 Students: Free
10:00 am: Business Session/2007-2009 Elections
Franklin Boyd Auditorium, ITC Campus
12:00 noon: Lunch-ITC Cafeteria
1:00 pm: Wreath Laying Ceremony
H. M. Turner Gravesite (Transportation available)
2:30 pm: Workshop Facilitator-Bishop E. Earl McCloud
"Personal & Institutional Financial Management"
5:30 pm: Dinner-Flipper Temple AME Church
7:30 pm: Worship Service
Flipper Temple AME Church
Preacher: Rev. Ellis Washington
12. FROM A STRICTLY MATHEMATICAL VIEWPOINT:
What Equals 100%? What does it mean to give MORE than 100%? Ever wonder about those people who say they are giving more than 100%? We have all been in situations in which someone wanted us to give more than 100%.How about achieving 101%? What equals 100% in life?
Here's a little mathematical formula that may help you to answer these Questions:
If:
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z
Is represented as:
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 1 9 20 21 22 23 24 25 26.
Then:H-A-R-D-W-O-R- K8+1+18+4+23+15+18+11 = 98%
and
K-N-O-W-L-E-D-G-E11+14+15+23+12+5+4+7+5 = 96%
But,
A-T-T-I-T-U-D-E
1+20+20+9+20+21+4+5 = 100%
AND, look how far the love of God will take you
L- O- V- E-O-F-G-O-D
12+15+22+5+15+6+7+15+4 = 101%
Therefore, one can conclude with mathematical certainty that: While Hard work and Knowledge will get you close, and Attitude will get you there, it's the Love of God that will put you over the top!
(Author unknown)
13. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
Mrs. Jereline Morgan, the sister of Mrs. Aline Allen, and the sister-in-law of Presiding Elder Thomas G. Allen passed. Services for Mrs. Morgan will be held on Saturday, January 6, 2007, 11 a.m. at Davis Creek Baptist Church, Prattsville, AR.
Professional services are being handled by:
Brandon’s Mortuary
329 West 3rd Street
Malvern, AR 72104-3717
Phone: (501) 337-9171
Expressions of sympathy may be sent to:
Presiding Elder and Mrs. Thomas G. Allen
#5 Saxony
Little Rock, AR 72209
Or
P.O. Box 55987
Little Rock, AR 72215
Phone: (501) 562-7902.
Please remember the family in your prayers.
Submitted by:
Anita Brannon
12th Episcopal District Administrative Office
14. EPISCOPAL FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
Submitted by: Bishop Sarah F. Davis
Services for Mr. Claytie Davis, Sr., father of Supervisor Claytie Davis, Jr., and the father-in-love of Bishop Sarah F. Davis are as follows:
VISITATION:
Saturday, January 6, 2007
9:00- 11:00 a.m.,
Carter Chapel C.M.E. Church
549 West 8th Street
Port Arthur, Texas 77640
409-982-8445 voice
HOMEGOING SERVICE:
Saturday, January 6, 2007
11:00 a.m.
Carter Chapel C.M.E. Church
Reverend Robert McBride - Pastor
CONDOLENCES MAY BE SENT TO:
Mrs. Eliza M. Davis and Family
1500 Stillwell Blvd.
Port Arthur, Texas 77640
(409) 982 -1572
Or
Supervisor Claytie and Bishop Sarah Davis
12214 Rocky Knoll Drive
Houston, Texas 77077
(281) 759-5123 voice and fax
Services have been entrusted to:
Gabriel Funeral Home
2500 Procter Street at DeQueen Blvd.
Port Arthur, Texas 77640
409-983-6661 voice
15. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
We regret to inform you of the passing of Sister Josephine Richmond, sister of Reverend Marguerite E. Handy, associate minister at Mt. Pisgah A.M.E. Church in Philadelphia, PA (West District, Philadelphia Annual Conference). Rev. Handy is also the Executive Director, Faith Base Initiative in the Mayor’s office in Philadelphia. The following information has been provided regarding funeral arrangements.
Viewing and Funeral – Friday, January 5, 2007
Viewing – 10:00 a.m.
Funeral – 11:00 a.m.
Phillip C.M.E. Church
754 S. 3rd Street (3rd & Fitzwater Street)
Philadelphia, PA 19147
Rev. William Green, Pastor
Phone: 215-928-1136
Condolences may be sent to:
Rev. Marguerite Handy and family
4100 Parkside Ave., Apt. 305
Philadelphia, PA 19104
Phone: 215-878-6556
Fax: 215-878-6031 (Home)
Fax: 215-686-4411 (Office)
Please remember the Handy and Richmond families in your prayers.
16. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
The passing on December 31, 2006 of Reverend Henry Jackson, founder of Hope AME Church, Prairie View, Texas in the 10th Episcopal District.
Service Arrangements:
The Wake:
Thursday, January 4, 2007
6:00 pm to 9:00 pm
Green Chapel
3318 Link Rd
Houston, TX
Funeral Services:
Friday, January 5, 2007
11:00 am
Wesley AME Church
2209 Dowling Street Houston, TX 77003 Phone: 713-659-6682
Expressions of sympathy may be sent to:
Sister Ruth Jackson
600 E. Whitney St.
Houston, TX 77022
713-695-7149
Please remember the Jackson family in your prayers.
17. 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
18. 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
