Bishop Gregory G. M. Ingram - Chair, Commission on Publications
The Reverend Dr. Johnny Barbour, Jr., Publisher
The Reverend Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III, Editor
BREAKING NEWS: THE 15TH EPISCOPAL DISTRICT UNDER THE LEADERSHIP OF THE RIGHT REVEREND SAMUEL LAWRENCE GREEN, SR. PODCASTS THEIR MIDYEAR CRUSADE:
View the 15th Episcopal District Midyear Crusade, which can be seen on the 15th District's website for the next two months at: www.15thdistrict.co.za
The Reverend Dr. Jamal Bryant and the Reverend Dr. Ann Lightner-Fuller are the preachers. The worship services can be viewed in beginning tonight at 9 p.m. as follows:
Thursday’s worship service may be viewed at 9 pm EST and anytime afterwards for the next two months.
Friday worship service may be viewed at 11 am EST and anytime afterwards for the next two months.
The Friday night worship service at 9 pm EST and anytime afterwards for the next two months
Saturday Service may be viewed at 9 am EST and anytime afterwards for the next two months
Click on the Yellow Tab under the number of visits counter which says Midyear Crusade 2007
Editor’s note: This historic initiative puts the 15th Episcopal District in South Africa at the forefront of the technology race.
All of our Connectional and annual conference worship services and some of our business sessions should be podcasted in real-time or delayed; and podcasting should be routine. We can do this, because if Bishop Green can arrange to podcast the crusade from Cape Town South Africa, we can do the same thing here in the States and from anywhere else in the world; this is not “rocket science,” it’s just a new paradigm.
Kudos to Bishop Green, I will be tuning in to join your 15th Episcopal District Midyear Crusade. I plan to put it on my iPod so that I can enjoy the worship again and again and share it with my friends.
1. AFRICAN METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH CONNECTIONAL CONVO IX, “FAITH, ORDER, MINISTRY AND MISSION”:
CONVO Committee:
The Right Rev. McKinley Young, Chair, the Right Rev. Richard A. Norris, the Right Rev. Adams J. Richardson, Co-chair, the Right Rev. John H. Adams, the Right Rev. Gregory G. M. Ingram, Co-chair the Right Rev. Preston Williams, the Right Rev. Wilfred J. Messiah
A Brief Overview of CONVO IX
Wednesday Afternoon:
CONVO IX began on Wednesday, February 28, 2007. The afternoon the plenary session, presided over by the Right Reverend Preston Warren Williams, allowed for various comments to be shared by the participants. The Right Rev. Vashti Murphy McKenzie gave an address on the biblical reflections on ministry.
Bishop McKinley Young gave an introduction of the CONVO themes. A presentation on the ministry was given by the Reverend Dr. Louis Charles Harvey and the Reverend Dr. Mark Kelly Tyler.
Following the plenary session, breakout groups deliberated on the issues of the "calling to the ministry" and the “academic requirements for ministry.”
The evening worship service was led by the Right Reverend Richard F. Norris.
Bishop Richardson introduced the preacher, the Rev. Dr. Michael E. Bell, the pastor of Allen Chapel AME Church, Washington, DC.
The Baltimore Annual Conference Choir provided music for this worship service.
Rev. Michael Bell preached a dynamic sermon entitled, "I Have to Win This Match," taken from Ephesians 6:12.
Thursday Morning, March 1, 2007:
The issue of the Thursday morning's plenary session with the Right Rev. T. Larry Kirkland, presiding was entitled, "Funding and Underwriting the ministry, witness and work of African Methodism in the 21st Century."
The Right Rev. John Adams gave an engaging presentation on funding and the need to take the time to develop relationships when trying to build community.
The Right Reverend Gregory G. M. Ingram spoke about changing the paradigm of AME finances. He went on to say, "We need to be positive about the direction of the Church and we need to stop referring to the AME Church as a "sinking ship"; people do not support sinking ships."
Dr. Richard Allen Lewis, AME CFO, gave an overview of where we have come from in the last 11 years.
He pointed out that the largest amount of operating funds is sent to the Treasurer’s Office during the month of March. He pointed out that sometimes our expenses are greater than our income. He shared that 2005-2006 had been our best year for receipt of funds. Dr. Lewis emphasized that episcopal districts need to support the quarterly transfer of funds. The 2008 General Conference is under-funded and he gave a proposal to correct the flow of funds so that the 2012 General Conference will not be under-funded as have previous General Conferences. He also shared the 2008-2012 proposed budget.
Dr. Lewis went on to say that the budget of the AME Church has not been adequately or sufficiently funded since he has been the treasurer.
Mr. Tony Grant, a retired Bank of America official gave a presentation on the "AME Church - a forward perspective."
Mr. Grant said that the challenge for the AME Church is one of urgency. He pointed out that as a Church; we don’t even know how much we are worth? He raised other questions related to the Church: Do we provide adequate funds for growth to our overseas constituencies? Do we know the economic impact of the AME church? What plans do we have for economic development? What are our strategic alliances; or what alliances should we develop?
Mr. Grant pointed out that we should always know the assets and liabilities of the AME Church as well as knowing where all of our churches are banking. The AME Church, as a denomination, needs to know its net worth; and often banks know more about us then we know about ourselves. The AME Church, in the spirit of Richard Allen, should be about self-help. He pointed out that other denominations are implementing revenue-sharing programs.
The Rev. Dr. Floyd Flake, pastor of Allen Cathedral in Jamaica, New York and President of Wilberforce University gave a presentation on “streams of income” needed to support the Church. He pointed out that if local churches don't grow, the denomination doesn't grow. He went to say that churches must know their demographics and find ways to develop blended congregations that incorporates youth, young adults, and senior citizens. He pointed out that vibrant worship services must be developed with new paradigms for worship without dismantling all of the traditions of the AME Church must be explored. Pastors and lay leaders must be willing to developed new modalities. Dr. Flake emphasized that AME church needed to attract all segment of society.
Dr. Flake shared the various models for church survival, which he described as: traditional, transactional, transitional, transformational, transparency, transcendency. Local churches have to be forward-thinking, open to change, and a willingness to re-invest their financial assets back into ministry.
Dr. Flake pointed out that an “engaged congregation will be tithing congregation.” He also said that the local church offering envelopes should be printed with mailers so that people have the option of mailing in their offerings to the church. Dr. Flake was firm in that recommendation.
Brother Myron Howie shared the proposed a "Living Legacy Program,” which is a planned giving ministry that fulfills and support the quadrennial "Living Well" focus of the Council of Bishops.
Bishop C. Garnett Henning spoke about the support for Hurricane Katrina and said that he would give a full accounting of the funds and expenditures of funds.
Bishop E. Earl McCloud challenged “the Church to challenge the church leadership on all issues.”
Dr. Jerome Harris shared information about funding issues and the need to embrace technology.
Dr. Johnny Barbour asked the question, “Do we love the AME Church?” He went on to say that if we loved the Church, we must support the Church. He said that we should not be satisfied being a poor church. Are we willing to support the Church in life and even in death? He pointed out that we need to train people to give and to name the AME Church in their wills.
CONVO IX exhibited a lot of energy and if CONVO IX is any indication of the energy of the AME Church and initiative for change, concerned AMEs need to plan to attend CONVO X, which will be held in Orlando, Florida on September 6-8, 2007.
Thursday Afternoon:
The afternoon session began with questions and answers based upon this morning's plenary session.
A question was raised about prior planning and getting the information out about the CONVOs in a timely fashion and the use of technology. Discussion was held around that inquiry.
The Right Reverend John Richard Bryant mentioned that at a black United Methodist meeting, the leadership of that meeting mentioned that there were 80 black Methodist mega-churches. Bishop Bryant went on to mention that the United Methodists identified that 36 of those mega-churches were AME churches.
A consensus of the respondents encouraged AMEs to be positive about the AME Church.
The Right Rev. William P. DeVeaux addressed the indebtedness of Morris Brown. He shared that positive plans were being implemented for Morris Brown. College and the AME Church have blocked a hostile takeover of MBC.
A comment was made about the issue of truth in annual conference reports - How much money was really raised and how many members does the local church really have?
The Right Reverend John Adams departed CONVO IX because he had to return home for his sister’s funeral; he died several days before the convening of CONVO IX. She was buried on Saturday March 3, 2007. Bishop Kirkland led the CONVO attendees in prayer for Bishop Adams and the Adams family.
Dr. Richard Lewis explained what was needed to keep the financial health of the Church in balance. Financial balance can only be done by the members of the African Methodist Episcopal Church.
Thursday Afternoon, March 1, 2007:
There are over 200 persons attending CONVO IX at their own expense. The people attending CONVO IX because they want to be here and they are concerned about the AME Church. Those who feel that the Church needs change should plan to attend CONVO X, which will meet in Orlando, Florida on September 6-8. Many of the legislative changes implemented at past General Conferences had their genesis in the early CONVOs.
The Right Rev. Adam J. Richardson presided over the afternoon plenary session. He gave an overview of the education ministry of the African Methodist Episcopal Church in the 21st Century.
What shall we do? Many of the schools belong to annual conferences because many of them started out as high schools. There are many issues that need to be addressed. The following reports were given:
The Reverend Dr. Floyd Flake reiterated that there is still a great need for HBCUs. Dr. Flake emphasized the need to take responsibility for the education of our children. We need solve our own problems as it relates to black people. He pointed out that Wilberforce University is stable and operates in the black.
The Rev. Earl Harris, pastor of greater. Allen AME Church, spoke about charter schools. Allen AME Church started out as a tutoring center and then grew into a full-fledged charter school. The school has five campus locations and the test scores of Allen are better than the city of Dayton. Reverend Harris pointed out the money is available for churches desiring to get into the ministry of educating of children.
Bishop Robert V. Webster, Chancellor of Wilberforce University and presiding bishop of the 3rd Episcopal District commended the Board of Trustees for their great work for WU. He, as President Flake, reiterated the need for HBCUs.
Bishop William P. DeVeaux, Chairman of the board at Morris Brown College and presiding prelate of the 6th Episcopal District reemphasized that Morris Brown College is on mend, but “it will not be the MBC of the past.” The college will have only few academic areas of concentration. Bishop DeVeaux thanked the AMEs for their financial and spiritual support.
Bishop Gregory G. M. Ingram, Chairman of the Board of Paul Quinn College and the presiding prelate of the 10th Episcopal Church explained that he wanted PQC to strive for excellence; PQC has to “go beyond good and function on the level of great." He also addressed the need for stronger financial support from alums and from persons who hunger to support black education.
Bishop McKinley Young, Chairman of the Board of Edward Waters College and the presiding prelate of the 11th Episcopal Church shared with CONVO IX that EWC has been reaffirmed for accreditation until 2014, the next scheduled accreditation review.
Presiding Elder J. Keith for spoke for the Right Reverend Preston Warren Williams II and shared that Allen University is fully accredited and that 85 percent of the AU faculty have terminal degrees. AU is tuition driven and the financial challenge remains a reality.
The Rev. Orlando McCauley spoke for Bishop David Daniels who was at work in the 14th District. Rev. McCauley said that AME University in Monrovia, Liberia has the highest student enrollment of all AME institutions. Bishop Richardson commended Bishop Daniels and AMEU.
Friday Morning, March 2, 2007:
Editor’s Note: I lost the first portion of the Friday morning proceedings twice with an inappropriate click of the track wheel of my Blackberry phone. I apologise for the spelling and formatting problems and as a result I have made a decision to purchase a laptop which will allow for greater efficiency in delivering real-time reports. I have attempted to reconstruct the lost portion.
Bishop Young got a shout when he asked the question, should AME members have a, “Parishioners’ Bill of Rights.” Should members of the AME Church expect their pastors to preach quality sermons? Should pastors be expected to maintain office hours? Should members expect that their pastors would visit the sick? Should pastors be paid fulltime salaries for part-time work? Should members be able to contact their pastors? Bishop Young went on to say that he has heard of some pastors who have unlisted telephone numbers.
Other topics addressed include:
- Episcopal accountability for submission budget payments.
- Integrity from the top to the bottom with full financial accountability.
- When do we have budget reform? What can the Church do to give something back to the people?
- Why doesn't the AME Church have programs that generate financial income as some other organizations do?
- Will all of this work done at CONVO IX and the subsequent CONVOS be implemented into Church law?
- How can we encourage a greater attendance at the next CONVOS?
- Management and trust around money
- "People contribute to vision, not to maintenance." (Dr. Lee Washington)
- Investigation of endowment initiatives for our academic institution
- Use of AME facilities, especially those that have been closed, for charter schools and other educational endeavors.
- Efficiencies of distance learning.
- Coordination with members of Congress. Seek the assistance of AME members in Congress.
- Closer contact and support of AME University in Liberia and Wilberforce Community College on South Africa.
The closing sermon was delivered by the Reverend Dr. George F. Flowers, Executive Director of Global Witness and Ministry.
In his sermon, Dr. Flowers explained that God has a divine plan for all us. God's divine consists of “consequences, sacrifices, and the victory,” and more importantly, God's divine includes victory over Satan!
Dr. George F. Flowers is somebody's preacher! And, he is a dynamic preacher who rightly divided the Word of God. His message closed out a great meeting- CONVO IX.
The CONVO IX Meeting ended; the work of CONVO IX has begun, thus, not CONVO IX has not ended, but is beginning the work of CONVO X, which will meet in Orlando, Florida on September 6-8.
For additional information please go to the Official AME Website that is maintained by the General Secretary of the AME Church, the Reverend Dr. Clement Fugh: http://www.ame-church.com/
2. THE REVEREND DR. MARK KELLY TYLER SHARES FREE WEBSITE DOCUMENTING THE AMERICAN SOUTH:
I was blessed and privileged to present certain portions of my research on the history of AME Church clergy education at CONVO IX. Following that session, I was approached by numerous persons seeking information on the web address that I shared during those moments at the CONVO IX. I would like to do so now for the readers of The Christian Recorder.
This free website, Documenting the American South, can be accessed at the following web address: http://docsouth.unc.edu. The site is over 5 years old, but they continue to update titles to their list. This project is sponsored by the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and is a valuable research tool for the novice or the advanced researcher.
The following primary sources are among over 1000 titles found on the list:
- The Life, Experience, and Gospel Labours of the Rt. Rev. Richard Allen (1833), Bishop Richard Allen’s autobiography
- The Doctrines and Discipline of the AMEC, First Edition (1817)
- Bishop Daniel Alexander Payne’s autobiography, Recollections of Seventy Years (1888)
- Bishop Henry McNeal Turner’s, Polity (1885)
- The History of the AMEC, Volume 1 (1891), by Bishop Payne
- The History of the AMEC, Volume 2, Bishop Charles Spencer Smith
- African Letters (1893), correspondence of Bishop Turner
- Negro Plot: An Account of the Late Intended Insurrection among a Portion of the Blacks of the City of Charleston, South Carolina (1822), the actual account of the Denmark Vessey trial
- An Apology for African Methodism, Bishop Benjamin Tucker Tanner, 1867
- The Sons of Allen: Together with a Sketch of the Rise and Progress of Wilberforce University, Wilberforce, Ohio (1906), by Horace Talbert
- Theophilus Gould Steward’s autobiographical work, Fifty Years in the Gospel Ministry from 1864 to 1914 (1921)
Other AME and non-AME related material can also be found on the website, including: The Confession of Nat Turner (1831), The Narrative of Sojourner Truth (1850), The History of Mary Prince, a West Indian Slave. Related by Herself (1831), and multiple other first hand slave narratives, and so much more.
Each title has been put into a completely searchable electronic format that can be cut and then pasted into a Microsoft Word document for your continued use. Once a word document has been created, then the fun begins. You can highlight, add comments/notes, etc. This is an excellent site to find material for New Members Class, Founder’s Day, and Black History Month.
Anyone that has questions about this site or others that have been found, please feel free to email me at the address below. It is my hope and prayer that this information will unleash a renewed interest in the history of an important time in the life of African Methodism. Our history, if properly understood, can be the source that ignites our smoldering embers of faith and create a fire that exceeds that of the early church of Richard and Sarah Allen.
I am yours in Christ,
Mark Kelly Tyler, Ph.D.
Pastor, Macedonia AMEC
Camden, New Jersey
TYL94@aol.com
3. ANOTHER PERSPECTIVE ABOUT HOW TO SOLVE SOME OF OUR PROBLEMS:
If our Zion's leadership goes back to its roots, we can resolve the issues with our schools and our economic development. I remember Bishop Ming telling me and Eric about how he, Bishop Anderson and Rev. Elmo Bean stayed with church members when they first arrived. African-Americans, in our "freedom", have lost our sense of responsibility to our own people, institutions and businesses. It takes planning and sacrifices!
Now that we have experienced the "Hyatt Regency's of the world," it's time to refocus our priorities for future generations.
For instance, we have empty buildings on many of our campuses. Most summers, our dorms are empty. If we would just Use those buildings for our meetings instead of hotels owned by other people, we can "save" thousands of dollars in meeting space and, at the same time, rebuild our economy.
Once we have created our own "reparations", we can rehab one campus at a time with a Conference Center and hotel.
Start with the campus that is in most need or the one that is closest to area hotels until the Conference Center and Hotel portion is built.
In the meantime, many of our meetings could use technology on a secure platform of one of our schools.
This would save thousands of travel dollars. We MUST begin to think "outside of the box."
Stephanie Walker Stradford, President
Youth Achievers USA Institute
www.YouthUSA.org
4. CONNECTIONAL AND RELIGIOUS SCHEDULE OF EVENTS. MARK YOUR CALENDARS:
2007
April 8 Easter
Connectional Meetings:
April 23-24 General Conference Commission Meeting, St. Louis, MO
May 1-4 Connectional Stewardship Seminar, Birmingham, AL
June 25-29 Bishop’s Council & General Board, Columbus, Ohio
July 11-15 30th Lay Biennial Session, Washington, DC
July 14-24 YPD & WMS Quadrennial, Philadelphia, PA
Sept. 6-8 CONVO X, Orlando, FL
Proposed Areas of Consideration
Governance and Order
Legislation for the 48th General Conference: A first Glimpse
Restructure: A Report from Strategic Planning
2008
March 27-29 CONVO XI, Dallas, TX
Proposed Areas of Consideration
Faith, Order, Ministry and Mission
General Budget and Funding the Ministry
A proposal for the Educational Ministry of the Church
Advancing Legislation to the Revisions Committee
July 4-11 General Conference, St. Louis, MO
5. WOMAN MINISTER INSTALLED TO LEAD MINISTERS ALLIANCE:
Jacksonville, FL—The Reverend Marva T. Mitchell was recently installed as the president of the AME Ministers Alliance of the East Conference at New Bethel AME Church by the Right Reverend McKinley Young, Presiding Prelate of the 11th Episcopal District.
The Rev. Mitchell becomes the first woman to lead the Alliance.
In a most appropriate message for the Installation Service, Bishop Young, using Acts 26:19 eloquently preached: “Keeping Faith with Your Commitment.” Following the spoken word, Bishop Young installed the officers for 1007. Rev. Marva T. Mitchell, President, the Rev. Mark L. Griffin, Vice President; the Rev. Charletta C. Robinson, Secretary; the Rev. Roger Williams, Assistant Secretary; Rev. Louis Kirkland, Treasurer; the Rev. Dr. Alesia Scott-Ford, Chaplain; the Rev. Roger Williams, Parliamentarian and the Rev. Moses Thomas, III, Marshall.
Installed as Chairpersons of Standing Committees were: Membership, the Rev. Granville Reed, Budget and Finance, the Rev. Marius O. King; Social Action, Rev. Mark Griffin; Civic and Political Action, the Rev. William Lamar IV and the Rev. Dr. James M. Proctor, Ecumenical, the Rev. James H. Davis, the Rev. Joseph E. Sanchez, and the Rev. Dr. Robert L. Mitchell. The Committee on Health is composed of the Rev. F. D. Richardson, Jr. and Theological Scholarship, the Rev. Michael L. Mitchell.
The members of New Bethel AMEC, where Rev. William Lamar, IV is pastor entertained the ministers with refreshments and fellowship following the service, the Ministers Alliance held a political forum the evening before the Installation Service, which was attended, by 32 of the 60 candidates for public office.
6. THIS WEEK BLACK CHURCH WEEK OF PRAYER FOR THE HEALING OF AIDS:
Let us as local Churches serve as a community center for HIV/AIDS awareness, education, support, and compassion year around! All pastors throughout Black America's neighborhood are joining in this interdenominational bond along with national leaders to speak out against complacency, denial and do-nothing attitudes regarding HIV/AIDS!
*This message was received from the Fifth District Prayer Group
7. THE GLOBAL CORNER - REPORT FOR FEBRUARY FROM AME-INDIA:
We thank God for Gods faithfulness in our lives and also in the lives of our friends who are toiling to take the good news of Jesus to new frontiers. We also thank you for standing by us, encouraging us and praying for us. We thank Bishop John and Rev. Cee for their constant encouragement and guidance to us in the ministry here in India.
We praise God for bringing five new people into God’s family in the Nepali speaking congregation at Bangalore. They have all accepted Jesus as their personal saviour and are being followed up. It was a pleasure to have them for the all night fasting prayer on 21st February 2007.
We also praise God for seven new-comers in the Tamil speaking congregation at Bangalore. Pastor Vijaymani requests prayers for them to commit their lives to Christ. Mr. Ramesh and his wife had been separated for the last seven years; their application for divorce had been pending in the court. But now after having come to know the Lord they have united again and living together now. They attend the church together along with their eight year old son. Mr. Alex, whose left leg was amputated due to an accident, some time back, is now suffering from chest pain and he requests you for your prayers.
Both the Nepali congregation and the Tamil congregation worship at the same place in different timings, but since their membership in growing every time they gather for worship, they are desperately looking for a bigger place to gather for worship. They request prayers for this.
Pastor Samuel, who serves three different congregations, has started a new worshipping group at a place called Pillanthangal. Eight seekers gather here regularly for worship as a result of the ministry done in this village by Pastor Samuel and his team. All the eight seekers are from Hindu background. Initially they had approached the Pastor with various difficulties they faced in their lives, like spirit possession, lack of peace of mind, lack of children etc. Many of their prayers have been answered due to which they want to follow Jesus. Please pray for their spiritual growth and maturity.
Another Mr. Selvam from a Hindu background happened to receive a New Testament from Pastor Samuel. Mr. Selvam out of his own interest read through the whole New Testament and he later requested Pastor for whole Bible. But Pastor was not able to attend to his request so he gifted him five audio cassettes of Christian music. Mr. Selvam has now accepted Jesus as his personal saviour and is waiting to be baptised; he not only listens to the music but plays it loud enough for others to listen. We are trying to arrange a full Bible for him. Let us praise God for his salvation and also for Christian maturity.
Pastor Samuel also reports that he was able to mobilise some finance to sponsor the poor elderly people and gift each of them with 10 kilograms of rice. Through his creative thinking he has newly mobilised a new women’s team, consisting of four women, who spend their own money to travel by bus, to go to the neighbouring villages to preach the gospel and evangelise. Pastor also accompanies them in this noble effort. Through this work this team is distributing tracts and inviting people to come for worship.
Please pray for Pastor Samuel as he is going through some difficulties, he travels by bicycle everyday for about 30 kilometres to minister to people in the neighbouring villages, but due to his age he finds it very difficult. He also has to vacate his house immediately.
Pastor Morris recently conducted a Widows meeting and it was very encouraging and refreshing for them. He also requests prayer for a nine year old boy, Vignesh, who fell down, later had fever and now he is bedridden. Please pray for Vignesh’s healing.
Pastor Lukas who leads the blind congregation (a blind himself), informs that one of family of his congregation, in which Manohari and her husband both are blind and both of their children are deaf, they had been struggling for a long time for their livelihood. Recently one of their sons has found a job and they praise God for this breakthrough. Another Mr. Balaraman, an alcoholic, chain smoker, who used to attend the church, but never participate in the worship or speak to anyone, recently started having acute chest pain, this brought in him the fear of death, which developed into fear of God. He took medical treatment and has been healed, but now he has committed his life to Jesus, he worships, testifies and is a transformed person. Praise God for Mr. Balaraman’s salvation and healing. Pastor Lukas sincerely requests prayer for finances to complete the construction of the Church, which is half done. All the members are unable to worship together due to lack of space as they meet in Pastor Lukas’s hut.
Pastor Paul Ebenezer leads a congregation of 80 members. Recently two girls have started coming to his church, please pray for their salvation. Mrs. Grace testified that while she was in the agriculture field, a poisonous snake passed over her body but it did not hurt her. Another lady named Vatchala testified that she met with an accident while riding her two-wheeler; the accident was so severe that the vehicle damaged beyond repair but nothing has happened to Vatchala. A testimony of how God protects God’s children. Mr. Dharani, a Hindu had requested for prayer as he stood in the elections, for one of the important posts in the village governance. He promised that if he wins in the election he would come to the church. To his surprise he won the election and now he comes to the church. Please pray for his salvation.
Pastor M. N. Selvam reports that Mrs. Malar, and another family of five members who experienced miracles in their lives by attending the fasting prayer have accepted Jesus as their personal saviour. Now they are all ready for baptism. Mrs. Elizabeth, a Hindu, had been suffering from some unknown sickness was bedridden and was unable to engage in any activity. Pastor Selvam and his wife were requested by the husband to come and pray for Elizabeth, they visited her and prayed. Now God has healed Elizabeth, she is out of her bed and manages her affairs without anyone’s help. Praise God for the healing. Let us continue to pray for her salvation.
We also request you to uphold in prayers many of the children and youth who are appearing for very important exams in this month.
We indeed praise God for all the miracles and all the ministry opportunities that God has given to us. Let us continue to pray and look forward for greater ministry in the days to come.
Minnie Sarah & Abraham Peddiny
AME-India
8. A COMMUNITY OF PRAYER - WWW.5THPRAYER.ORG:
If you are among those people who put Christian values at the top of your list, you may want to take a quick trip over to a new website, 5thPrayer.org. It is not, however, a site devoted exclusively to members of the African Methodist Episcopal Church, it is a site with prayer warriors that work around the clock praying for the pains of afflictions of anyone seeking it.
5thDistPrayer.org was launched in February 2007. With the support of the AME Church, people around the globe are catching on fast. One of the long-term goals of 5thPrayer.org is to build a cross-cultural, interfaith community where people reach out to others, and beyond, with their prayers of hope and healing. Through this site, people ask for prayers and pray for each other, building a spiritual community through the power of prayer. The site was inspired by Revs. Anthony and Dorisalene Hughes, the Pastor and First Lady of Bethel AME Church in San Diego, California, and the Co-Directors of the AME Fifth District (International) Prayer, with the permission of their powerful leader and woman of God, Minister Rosemary Saffold.
“I invite you to take a look at God's new prayer website which Pastor Hughes and myself have been blessed to open. The site is ready for you to engage with prevailing prayer! We would love for you to ignite it with powerful prayers. You may interact with one another; pray with and for one another. Post praise reports/victory reports, and more,” says Rev. Dorisalene Hughes.
The co-directors are making a special effort to work on further promoting and developing 5thPrayer.org, and are praying for guidance as they explore new ways of enhancing the online prayer experience of all our community. Please help us spread the word about 5thPrayer.org by telling your friends, family and co-workers about the site. You can also assist by checking the website of your local church, conference or district. Do they have a link to 5thPrayer.org? If not, why not recommend a link? You might suggest that they use one of the beautiful graphics found on the site at http://www.5thprayer.org/link_to_us.html to place on their website, or they can create their own wording. We are always looking for prayer warriors and intercessors to join in, and welcome your input. If you would like to help support 5thPrayer.org, please call Rev. Dorisalene Hughes at (619) 232-0510, or email her at FifthDistPrayer@aol.com .
9. DR. MONICA A. COLEMAN, AN AME ITINERANT ELDER IS SELECTED FOR WABASH CENTER TEACHING AND LEARNING WORKSHOP:
The Rev. Dr. Monica A. Coleman, assistant professor of systematic theology, has been selected to participate in the 2007-08 Wabash Center Teaching and Learning Workshop for pre-tenured theological school faculty members. The workshops are held for one week each summer for two years and on a winter weekend retreat. Topics include course design, student learning styles, ethics in the classroom, teaching to prepare minister, and issues of tenure preparation.
Dr. Coleman holds degrees from Harvard University, Vanderbilt University Divinity School and Claremont Graduate University. She is an ordained elder in the Michigan Conference of the African Methodist Episcopal Church. In addition to many scholarly articles and book chapters, her work with congregations to respond to sexual violence resulted in the book The Dinah Project: A Handbook for Congregational Response to Sexual Violence.
She most recently held the position of assistant professor of religion and director of womanist religious studies at Bennett College for Women in Greensboro, N.C. The African-American Pulpit, a nondenominational preaching and ministry journal recently named Dr. Coleman one of the 'Top 20 to Watch" in "The New Generation of Leading Clergy: Preachers under 40."
Her areas of teaching competency include but are not limited to systematic theology, 19th Century philosophical theology, process theology, feminist and womanist theologies, and African American religions.
The Lutheran School of Theology at Chicago prepares women and men to proclaim the good news of God's love in Jesus Christ to all people. Its approximately 350 students come from all parts of the United States and from around the world to study in one of five advanced degree programs. Graduates become pastors, other church leaders, and university and seminary professors. LSTC is a seminary of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America and a member of the Association of Chicago Theological Schools, allowing students to cross-register among the 12 member seminaries and drawing on a wealth of ecumenical resources. LSTC enjoys a number of cooperative arrangements with the University of Chicago. To learn more about the Lutheran School of Theology at Chicago, visit www.lstc.edu
The Rev. Dr. Kathleen D. Billman is the Dean of Academic Affairs
Jan Boden, Director of Communications and Marketing Lutheran School of
10. BISHOP VASHTI M. MCKENZIE SPEAKS AT BEREA COLLEGE CONVOCATIONS DURING BLACK HISTORY MONTH:
*Exhorter Doris J. Coffey
Berea College was founded in 1855 as the first interracial and co-educational college in the South and located 35 miles south of Lexington where the Kentucky’s Bluegrass Region meets the foothills of the Cumberland Mountains will be never again be the same!
Thursday, February 8, 2007 at 3:00 p.m. on a cold and brisk wintry day in Kentucky, the vivacious, valiant, venerated, venturesome and veracious Vashti Murphy McKenzie, history-making, first female Bishop of the African Methodist Episcopal Church rose to the occasion to deliver a mighty Word.
The Phelps-Stokes Chapel was filled to an overflowing crowd, received Bishop Vashti McKenzie warmly and enthusiastically as she greeted the students and recognized the visiting AME dignitaries, both clergy and laity.
After expressing her gratitude for the invitation and the attendance of the members of the 13th Episcopal District she “got on with it” challenging the students to live an authentic life – a life with passion.
The context of her message was: “Do You Have the Courage to See and then Do Something about what you see?” She stated that “Life can be a struggle, the way forward can be a struggle – but don’t focus on the negative. When you focus on the negative you give power to the negative. Have the courage to see that you are talented and gifted. You have something to contribute. You have the stuff to make it through injustice, prejudice, racism and sexism. “Open your eyes and do something about what you see!”
Bishop McKenzie made a lasting impression on the students and faculty at Berea College with her deliverance of a “powerful, sitting on the edge of your seat speech/sermon.” Her finesse, her effervescence and dignity were received warmly by the faculty, staff and students. Bishop McKenzie left signed copies of her book “Journey to the Well” for the library.
It was a grand occasion, followed by a reception with countless handshakes, congratulations and well wishes.
*Exhorter Doris J. Coffey is the Reporter for the Lexington District - Kentucky Conference
11. 13TH DISTRICT LAY ORGANIZATION ANNUAL BUSINESS MEETING TO BE HELD IN NASHVILLE:
The 13th District Lay Organization Annual Business Meeting will be held at Ebenezer AME Church; 1107 Elm Hill Pike; Nashville, Tennessee at 9:30 a.m. Central Standard Time, Saturday, March 10, 2007.
Persons from Kentucky who are interested in reserving a seat on Historic St. Paul AME Church van, please contact Priscilla Sullivan
Those traveling on the bus will need to meet at the St. Paul AME Church, Lexington, Kentucky by 6:00 a.m.
Priscilla Sullivan
Kentucky Conference Lay Organization
Website: http://www.kylay.com/
Email: kylay@iglou.com
12. THE 30TH SESSION LAY ORGANIZATION BIENNIAL:
The 30th Session Lay Organization Biennial that will be held in Washington, DC. July 9-15, 2007.
13. FREE PARROTTS CLASS LEADERS TRAINING WORKSHOP:
Greater St. Peter AME Church at Rivers Edge Proudly Presents a free Parrotts Class Leaders’ Training Workshop on Friday, March 23, 2007- Saturday, March 24, 2007 for the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ -Ephesians 4:12 (KJV)
Empowering Class Leaders for Effective Ministry:Class Leaders Training is a six-hour intensive study preparing lay members for effective ministry in the local church, conducted by Dr. Allen W. Parrott, Presiding Elder of the Kingstree District in the Seventh Episcopal District.
Class Leaders Training
Focuses on:
Biblical Foundation for Lay Ministry
Theological Foundation for Lay Ministry
Historical Foundation for Lay Ministry
Pastoral Care
Home Visitation
Hospital Visitation
Duties of Class Leaders
Writing Prayers
Selecting Appropriate Scripture
Class Leaders Survey
Congregational Survey
Class Leaders in Methodism:
A Ministry of Reconciliation
The Emergence of the Class Leaders
The Class Leaders and Class Meeting
TodayAfrican American Methodists and Class Leaders
Class Leaders and Class Meetings in the AME Church
Information about Class Leaders Training schedule and sign-up can be accessed by visiting events@stpeterame.org
Contact Rivers Edge Events at 770-210-4100 for complete information about the workshop.
14. THE SECOND ANNUAL THE BOLD, THE BEAUTIFUL AND THE BLESSED WOMAN OF GOD WOMEN’S NIGHT REVIVAL:
The second Annual "The Bold, the Beautiful and the Blessed Woman of God Women’s Night Revival," originally scheduled for Friday, February 2, 2007 has been rescheduled for Friday, March 16, 2007 at 7:00 pm, at Saint James African Methodist Episcopal Church in Cynthiana, Kentucky.
This worship service is open to everyone who desires to hear the Word of God.
The topics and speakers of the worship service:
- The Bold Woman of God, Sister Doris J. Coffey, Exhorter at Historic Saint Paul A.M.E. Church, Lexington, Kentucky
- The Beautiful Woman of God, the Reverend Marion Lewis, associate minister at Phillips Memorial C.M.E. Church, Lexington, Kentucky
- The Blessed Woman of God, Sister Sherri Green, Member of Saint Peter A.M.E. Church, Harrodsburg, Kentucky
The featured soloists will be Pastor Melissa Jones, Sister La Neia Sweat Johnson, and Sister Elsie Speed.
The Reverend Antonio Q. Stuckey is the pastor of Saint James A.M.E Church, Cynthiana, Kentucky.
15. FAITH COMMUNITY AME CHURCH AT WORK:
- On Sunday AT Faith Community AME Church, we had one of the leading actors for the Broadway play, "The Color Purple," attend service. She is in Chicago because the play will run until October 2007 here and she is a long time friend of one of our members. She sang "Give ME THIS DAY" and was she excellent!
- Contributions continue to come in for the Medrano family. At this rate when one combines money, services, gift cards and free products (diapers and formula for three years) the amount raised is approaching $80,000.00.
- This Sunday the Young Adult Network from the Chicago Conference asked to worship with Faith. I was told that every year at the district conference they select a church to attend and they asked to worship with Faith.
- Faith received a wonderful photo montage from Greater Mt. Zion AMEC, Pearlington, MS and a thank you for sending a contribution. There remains much work to be done in that region and I pray that outreach will continue.
The Reverend Garry Moss is the pastor of Faith Community AME Church in Elgin, Illinois
16. THE LEXINGTON DISTRICT CONFERENCE WILL MEET AT ST. PAUL AME CHURCH, VERSAILLES, KENTUCKY:
The Lexington District Conference will convene Friday, March 30, 2007 through Saturday, March 31, 2007 at St. Paul AME Church in Versailles, Kentucky, located at 215 Douglas Avenue. The Reverend Ralph Johnson is the presiding elder of the Lexington District. The theme for the Lexington District Conference is “Leaders Under Construction” (II Timothy 2:22).
The host Pastor Reverend James “Book” Smith, his congregation and the Lexington District wish to extend an invitation to you to join us in this Worship Experience. The Opening Worship Service and Sacrament of Holy Communion will be at 7:00 pm on Friday evening.
The Lodging accommodations are available at the Fairfield Inn and Suites located at 40 Chenault Drive, Frankfort, KY. Room rates are $79.00 king and double; and, $89.00 for extended king suites.
Reservations must be made by March 12, 2007, to receive these rates. You can make your reservation by calling (502) 695-8881 or online at www.marriott.com/LEXEF. Be sure to give the name “AME Lexington District Conference” to receive the above-mentioned rates.
The Reverend James E. Smith is the pastor of St. Paul AME Church, Versailles, Kentucky.
17. THE PASTOR’S CORNER: THE JOY OF SACRIFICE – TAKE UP MY CROSS:
A student is not above his teacher, nor a servant above his master. It is enough for the student to be like his teacher, and the servant like his master. If the head of the house has been called Beelzebub, how much more the members of his household! (Matthew 10:24-25)
The joy of sacrifice is realized as I take up my cross and follow Jesus Christ as one of His disciples. A second term of being an adherent to the doctrine of Jesus is that one would (v.24-25) “Humble oneself before Jesus.” We are not above our Master – Jesus Christ (v.24). “Yes, I want to walk with Jesus but I’m not going to go through… Yes, I want to walk with Jesus but I’m not going to put up with… Yes, I want to walk with Jesus but I’m not going to deal with…”
Mrs. Moody and I look forward to the return of spring. As the weather warms up, we will resume our daily walks together. When Mrs. Moody and I walk together, we each encounter what the other encounters. If the temperature is cool, we both experience the chill in the air. If the wind is gusty, we both experience the push of the wind. If the sun is bright and the sky clear, we both experience the warmth and blue sky of a sun shiny day. Therefore, as we walk with Jesus as His disciples, we can expect to encounter what Jesus encountered.
Chapters 8 and 9 of the book of Luke describe how “Jesus traveled about from one town and village to another, proclaiming the good news of the kingdom of God (Luke 8:1).” “A large crowd was gathering and people were coming to Jesus from town after town (Luke 8: 4).” The miraculous works Christ performed captured their attention and emotions - feeding of 5,000 men plus women and children; healing of the hemorrhaging woman; delivering the demon-possessed man; Peter’s proclamation of Jesus as the Christ of God; the mount of transfiguration. People were motivated and ready to be among the crowd of those who gathered around the “Son of God.”
Yet, Jesus’ proclamation as stated in Matthew 10: 38 was, “Anyone who does not take up his cross and follow Me is not worthy of Me.” The story goes on (Luke 9: 57-58) to tell us, “As they were walking along the road, a man said to Him, ‘I will follow you wherever you go.’” Fitness for service in the kingdom of God finds its grounding in the name (v.58) Jesus calls Himself “the Son of Man.”
Jesus calls Himself “the Son of Man” - not the Son of God; not the Great I Am; not the Almighty God; not the Creator of the Universe; not the Alpha and Omega; not the First and the Last; not the Beginning and End; not the King of kings and Lord of lords. Jesus calls Himself the name that links Him to the earth and to His mission. “Son of Man” was His favorite designation of Himself, (cited 80 times in the gospels). “Son of Man” emphasizes Jesus’ (Philippians 2: 5-11) lowliness and humility; the self imposed constraints of His humanity; His suffering and death; and His future reign as King. As we walk with Jesus as His disciples, we must be willing to encounter what He encountered.
First, (Luke 9: 58) we must be willing to go without attachment to places and things, but with a complete attachment to Him. A little girl was teaching her brother how to play on the jungle gym. She explained to him how he had to release the bar in his rear hand to advance himself to the next bar. The younger brother found himself stuck and unable to experience the joy of the journey on the jungle gym. He admitted in a tearful outburst, “I’m afraid to let go because I might fall.” Many of us sincerely want to follow Christ as His disciples but we’re stuck because of our fear of letting go of the things we look to as the sources of our security. Proverbs 3: 5 tells us to “Trust in the Lord with all your heart. Lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him and He will direct your path.” Trust the One who loved so much He died to have you.
Second, (Luke 9: 60) the claims of the kingdom take priority in our lives. They bring abundant and eternal life to those still physically alive. Philippians 3: 15- 21 share that (v.20) we are citizens of the kingdom of God. Jesus’ and our message and mission are “The kingdom of heaven is at hand.” If I’m sent by the U.S. to fulfill a mission in a country whose practices were adverse or contrary to the terms of citizenship in the U.S., I would focus on carrying out my mission, and not do anything that would result in revocation of my U.S. citizenship. In the same way as citizens of the kingdom of God we will not, while here on earth, live in ways that is inconsistent with our citizenship in His heavenly kingdom. We take a kingdom view of life, not an earthly view (v. 15-16). We are to pattern our lives after the principles of the kingdom (v. 17-19). We live with eternity in mind knowing Christ’s power to transform us (v. 20-21).
Finally, (Luke 9: 62) we must be willing to let go of the past. The image Jesus gives us is one of someone attempting to plow ahead while looking backward resulting in crooked rows for planting and cultivating a crop. Looking back to those things of our past can distract us and produce a crooked walk in our pursuit of Christ. The witness of our crooked and inconsistent lives will diminish the crop produced for the kingdom of God. That’s why the Apostle Paul wrote, (Philippians 3: 12-14) “Brothers, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it [perfection]. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.” I pay the high price gladly, as I take up my cross and follow Jesus.
Pastor James Moody
18. CLERGY FAMILY CONGRATULATORY NOTICE:
William Quickley II, son of Rev. Dr. and Mrs. William Quickley - pastor and first lady of Bethel A.M.E. Church in Belton, TX graduated with honors from Prairie View A&M University in Texas after induction into the honors fraternity and received his commission in the United States Army as a 2nd Lieutenant in May 2006. On March 1, 2007 he graduated from the Officers Quartermaster Course in Fort Lee, Virginia and he will report to Fort Hood, Texas for his first assignment. Please keep him in your prayers!
Congratulatory messages and well wishes may be sent c/o: Bethel A.M.E. Church401 S. Davis Street / P. O. Box 1063
Belton, TX 76513
Email congratulatory messages may be sent to: ameq27@sbcglobal.net
19. EPISCOPAL BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
We are saddened to announce the passing of Dr. Lucy Rose Adams, retired educator and sister of the Right Reverend John Hurst Adams.
Funeral service arrangements for Dr. Lucy Rose Adams: Saturday, March 3, 200711:00 AMBethel A.M.E. Church819 Woodrow Street Columbia, SC 29205 803-779-0138 Phone803-461-6084 Fax
Professional services entrusted to: Palmer Memorial Funeral Chapel1200 Fontaine PlaceColumbia, SC 29223(803) 786-6300 Phone803-786-8002 Fax
Expressions of sympathy may be sent to: Bishop and Mrs. John Hurst Adams and FamilyBethel A.M.E. Church (address above) Palmer Memorial Funeral Chapel (address above)
Or to: Bishop and Mrs. John Hurst Adams and Family2500 Peachtree Road, NW #206 NAtlanta, GA 30305
20. CLERGY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
Mrs. Ada Beatrice Coaxum, the mother of Mrs. Charlotte Brooks and the mother-in-law of the Rev. Charles Brooks, retired Pastor of St. Paul AME Church, San Bernardino, California passed on Monday, March 5, 2007.
Funeral service arrangements for Mrs. Ada Beatrice Coaxum:
Saturday, March 10, 20071:00 P.M.
Providence Baptist ChurchFort Worth, Texas
Professional services entrusted to:
Gregory W. Spencer Funeral Directors, Inc.
4000 Miller Avenue
Ft. Worth, TX 76119
Expressions of sympathy may be sent to:
Gregory W. Spencer Funeral Directors, Inc.
Email: GWSpencerdirs@yahoo.com
21. CLERGY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
The Reverend Charles W. Buckner, Sr., superannuated preacher and member of Park Place AME Church - Homestead, Pennsylvania passed on Monday, March 5, 2007.
Services for Reverend Buckner are as follows:
Visitation - Friday, March 9, 2007
2 PM - 4 P.M.
7 PM - 9 P.M.
Homegoing Service - Saturday, March 10, 2007 at 11 AM
Both the visitation and homegoing service will be held at:
Park Place AME Church
215 East Tenth Avenue
Homestead, PA 15120
(412) 461-2627
The Reverend David W. Bethea, pastor
Cards and other expressions of sympathy may be sent to:
The Buckner Family
106 East 15th Avenue
Homestead, PA 15120
Please remember the Buckner Family in your prayers.
Submitted by: Nichole Pressley
Public Relations
Pittsburgh District of the Pittsburgh Conference
Third Episcopal District
African Methodist Episcopal Church
22. CLERGY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
From: 1wim@htcomp.netRegretfully announcing the passing of Rev. Leroy Sillemon (Staff Pastor at Adams Chapel A.M.E. Church, Dallas, Texas - Tyler District,North Texas Conference).
Wake: Sunday - March 4, 2007 - 7:00 P.M. Adams Chapel A.M.E. ChurchRev. Fredrick D. Lewis-Pastor7707 Santa RosaDallas, Texas 75241Ph: (972) 224 7036
Homegoing Service:Monday - March 5, 2007 - 11:00 A.M.Bethel A.M.E. ChurchRev. Reginald J. Houston-Pastor1638 Ann ArborDallas, Texas 76216Ph: (972) 375-0144
Services entrusted to: Heavenly Gate Funeral Service702 GatewoodGarland, Texas 75042Ph: (972) 204 2121
Condolences may be sent to: Mrs. Anna Mae Sillemon (Wife) 2915 CummingsDallas, Texas 75216 Ph: (214) 376-9201
Submitted by: The Rev. Dr. Sherryl A. Matlock-PastorSt. James A.M.E. ChurchDenton, Texas
23. CLERGY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
Mr. Robert Spencer, Sr., of Knoxville, Tennessee died Monday, March 5, 2007 at the Cancer Treatment Center of America, Zion, IL.
Mr. Spencer was the husband of Mrs. Deborah Reid Spencer, daughter of the Rev. and Mrs. Walter W. Reid, Sr. of Indianapolis, Indiana.
Final Arrangements for Mr. Spencer:
Saturday, March 10, 2007 Visitation: 10:30-11:30 A.M.
Funeral Service: 1:00 P.M.
Overcoming Believers Church
2500 E. 5th Avenue
Knoxville, TN 37914
Telephone: (865) 633-9050
Fax: (865) 675-4168
The Rev. Daryl W. Arnold, pastor
Professional services entrusted to:
Jarnigan Funeral Home
2823 Martin Luther King, Jr. Boulevard
Knoxville, TN 37914
(865) 524-5575
Expressions of sympathy may be sent to:
Mrs. Deborah C. Spencer
6712 Ellesmere Drive
Knoxville, TN 37921
(865) 690-6383
E-Mail: SPENCERKNXV@AOL.COM
Rev. and Mrs. Walter W. Reid, Sr.E-Mail:
REIDWWRSR@AOL.COM
Rev. and Mrs. Walter W. Reid, Jr.E-Mail:
BROWWR15@bellsouth.net
Rev. and Mrs. Rodric K. Reid
E-Mail: RKRXJ6@AOL.COM
Submitted by:The Rev. Walter W. Reid, Sr.
24. CLERGY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
The Reverend David U. Brown, a former pastor in the Third Episcopal District passed.
Service arrangement: WakeThursday March 1, 20072:00 PM to 4:00 PM and 7:00 PM to 9:00 PMSt. Paul A.M.E. Church 1350 Locust StMcKeesport, PA 15132
Funeral: Friday March 2, 200711:00 A.M. St. Paul A.M.E. Church 1350 Locust StMcKeesport, PA 15132
Condolences can be sent to his wife: Mrs. Susie Brown1120 Ivy StMcKeesport, PA 15132
Submitted by: Nancy F. Brown
25. CLERGY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
Regretfully announcing the passing of Sister Helen Womack (mother of Rev. Raymond L. Womack - grandmother of Rev. Cynthia R. Womack) both staff pastors at St. James A.M.E. Church in Denton, Texas, Northwest, Texas Conference, Greater Fort Worth District.
Homegoing Service for Sister Helen Womack:Friday, March 2, 20077:00 P.M.Williams Temple Church of God in ChristBishop Warren Miller-Pastor6812 Woodland AvenueCleveland, Ohio 44104Ph: (216) 431-4540
Sister Helen Womack's final earthly care has been entrusted to: William A. Gaines Funeral Home9116 Union AvenueCleveland, Ohio 44105 Ph: (216) 641-4802
Condolences may be sent to: Rev. Raymond L. & Irene Womack1605 Dorothy StreetGrand Prairie, Texas 75051Ph: (972) 263-9244or Rev. Cynthia Womack1605 Dorothy StreetGrand Prairie, Texas 75051Ph: (682) 438-8856
Submitted by: Rev. Dr. Sherryl A. Matlock-PastorSt. James A.M.E. ChurchDenton, Texas
26. CLERGY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
Regretfully, we share the passing of Sister Alma Jean Ambushama on February 26, 2007. Sister Ambushama was the sister of Rev. Robbie Slaughter (Staff Pastor at Wesley Chapel A.M.E. Church - Fort Worth, Texas - Greater Fort Worth District - Northwest Texas Conference).
Homegoing services for Sister Alma Jean Ambushama: Saturday, March 3, 200712:00 P.M. (NOON) Charity ChurchBishop F. Ron Mays-Pastor501 W. Seminary DriveFort Worth, Texas 76115Ph: (817) 924-3111
Sister Ambushama's final earthly care has been entrusted to: Baker Funeral Home301 E. Rosedale StreetFort Worth, Texas 76104Ph: (817) 332-4468
Condolences may be sent to: Rev. Robbie Slaughter2903 Ellis AvenueFort Worth, Texas 76106(817) 625-0708
Submitted by: Rev. Dr. Sherryl A. Matlock-PastorSt. James A.M.E. ChurchDenton, Texas
27. CLERGY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
Sadly announcing the passing of Mrs. Etta Griffin Lovejoy of Cleveland, Ohio; the sister of the late Rev. Archie C. Griffin, Sr., East Tennessee Conference, 13th Episcopal District and the aunt of Rev. Archie C. Griffin, Jr., pastor of Berry Chapel AME Church in Lynchburg, Tennessee, Rev. Cora Griffin Stovall, pastor of Mt. View AME Church in Winchester, Tennessee, and Rev. Etta Griffin Garth, retired AME minister.
Services held: FuneralWednesday, February 28, 200711:00 AMImani Temple Ministries1855 Ansel RoadCleveland, OH 44106216-231-9902Rev. Rodney Thomas, eulogist.
Condolences may be sent to: Rev. Archie C. Griffin, Jr.Gsandrajc@aol.com7621 Boriss DriveChattanooga, TN 37416
Rev. Cora Stovallfunnyeyez@hotmail.com1905 Bella Vista DriveChattanooga, TN 37421
Rev. Etta Garth4410 Delashmitt RoadApartment 15Hixson, TN 37343
Submitted by: Rev. Cora Griffin Stovall, pastorMt. View AME ChurchWinchester, Tennessee
28. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICES AND CONGRATULATORY ANNOUNCEMENTS PROVIDED BY:
The Clergy Family Information Center
Bishop Carolyn Tyler Guidry, Chair
Commission on Social Action
Ora L. Easley, Administrator
AMEC Clergy Family Information Center
E-mail: Amespouses1@bellsouth.net
Phone: (615) 837-9736
Voice Mail: (615) 833-6936
Fax: (615) 833-3781
Cell: (615) 403-7751
29. 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
