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: WHO IS TO BLAME?
Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III
The first book of the Bible, in Genesis, Chapter 3, an account of the fall of humankind tells the story in which the LORD God asked Adam and Eve if they had eaten from the tree in the middle of the Garden of Eden. In essence, Adam blamed the LORD God for the giving him Eve in the first place, after which, Adam blamed Eve and Eve blamed the snake (“and the snake didn’t have a leg to stand on” – this parenthetical insert “the snake didn’t have a leg to stand on” is not a part of the biblical account). Adam blamed and Eve blamed; neither took responsibility.
Blame has been around for a long time; actually, since the beginning of time. Most of us have a penchant for blaming others for all sorts of things. Like the first biblical family, who started out pure and without sin, church folks, clergy and laity, who claim to be followers of Christ, also know how to blame. Church folks and especially AMEs know how to blame. I have been an AME almost all of my life, and from my childhood heard the blaming game.
I heard that the bishops were the problem with what was going wrong with the AME Church. I also heard about pastors who were problems and they were blamed for causing churches to fail.
In the AME Church, the bishops and the pastors take the brunt of the blame for what is perceived as what is wrong in the church. Vicious newsletters have been published castigating bishops and pastors, email messages have been sent, legal suits brought against the church, and usually a bishop’s name is included in the allegations. Letters are written on pastors, and a saying among some clergy is that pastor hasn’t pastored until he or she has had a letter written them. Blame is part of our existence.
Every AME has an opinion about the shortcomings of the AME Church. I have heard all of the blame, and like many of you, have participated in the blame game. In the final analysis, the AME Church, like all churches and humans, has its challenges.
But, having said that, The AME Discipline is a great document and if one reads it, would discover the genius of the founders of our Zion. The AME Discipline is a “great piece of work” as evidenced by individual churches and denominations in the U.S. and abroad, who copy our system. The AME Church has elevated the office of bishop so highly, that even Baptists are taking the title of bishop. I have seen store-front churches pastored by “bishops.” Some Pentecostal denominations have taken our nomenclature of “presiding elder,” and I wouldn’t be surprised if some Baptist associations started to use the term, “presiding elder.”
So, if so many folks want to copy our system to theirs, why are so many of our folks blaming the episcopacy and pastoral leadership for what they perceive as some of the failures of the AME Church?
I would be the first to admit that we have challenges in the AME Church; as a body and as individuals. I wish that I could undue some of the failures in my life. We are humans and, and from time to time, humans fail.
I have thought about this and I have come to the conclusion that perceived failures in the AME Church should not be laid at the feet of the bishops of the church. I would further express the opinion that a majority of the failures of the AME Church cannot be laid at the feet of our pastors.
Well, if the problems of the AME Church cannot be laid at the feet of the bishops and the pastors, where does the blame lie? I will tell you in the next issue who is to blame?
- TO BE CONTINUED IN THE NEXT ISSUE!
2. GOOD NEWS FROM THE DOMINICAN REPUBLIC:
By John Thomas III
When He had stopped speaking, He said to Simon, “Launch out into the deep and let down your nets for a catch.” Luke 5:4 (NKJV)
Since her election and consecration at the 2004 General Conference, Bishop Carolyn Tyler Guidry has embarked on a ministry of teaching and service across the “Sizzling” Sixteenth Episcopal District. Included in this extensive District is the only Spanish speaking country with an active AME presence—the Dominican Republic. It is to be noted that while the Cuba Annual Conference is still recognized by the Connectional Church, it has been inactive since 1960. The lack of AME publications in languages other than English has made it difficult for AME pastors and members in the Dominican Republic to learn and understand certain aspects of AME polity and beliefs. In order to correct this situation, Bishop Guidry has thus far conducted two “teaching visits,” from August 1-14 and December 7-12, 2006. The results of these visits will enhance the position of the AME Church in the Dominican Republic, and possibly Latin America, for generations to come.
The extent of Bishop Guidry’s efforts can better be appreciated through an historical perspective of the work in the Dominican Republic. At the invitation of the Haitian dictator of Hispaniola in 1824, members of the AME Church in Philadelphia first immigrated to the Dominican Republic. Largely clustered around the Samaná peninsula in the northeastern part of the country, these members successfully maintained their AME traditions and the English language while being integrated into the largely Catholic Dominican society. Without a pastor, however, the immigrants were forced to rely on white missionaries from other Protestant denominations. In the late 1870’s, a movement started among the descendants of the American immigrants to “rejoin the church of their fathers”. This effort culminated in the formation of the Dominican Republic Annual Conference early in the 20th century.
The Dominican Republic Annual Conference became active in the AME Connection and several young men were sent to AME seminaries. The Presiding Elder and much of the senior leadership were AME ministers from English-speaking Caribbean islands. As time passed, however, the English language among the Samaná immigrants was mostly spoken by the older members, with later generations knowing mostly Spanish. The surge of Pentecostal denominations in the 1980’s, combined with a lack of theological education among the AME Dominican pastors, lead to an adoption of fundamentalist Pentecostal doctrines, including elimination of infant baptism, prohibition on women relaxing their hair and wearing jewelry, and removal of altars from most of the Dominican pulpits. This situation was exacerbated by inadequate Episcopal oversight, primarily because of the language barrier and the absence of a resident Bishop.
It was into this milieu that Bishop Guidry launched herself in August, 2006. After her first series of Annual Conferences, Bishop Guidry realized the need to teach AME polity and tradition in the context of the various countries. The Dominican Republic was chosen to be the pilot for this program, given the severity of the situation. Accompanied by Sandra Pyke-Anthony (wife of Trinidadian Presiding Elder Wayne Anthony) and myself, the Bishop visited churches in both Presiding Elder districts, meeting with members and pastors to reeducate them about the Church they loved. The foundation of these meetings was an analysis of the scriptural basis for the twenty-five Articles of Religion. These sessions were quite candid, with several members and pastors vigorously questioning the tenets of the AME faith as opposed to what they had been taught for nearly two decades. In spite of the most confrontational discussions, however, one could see the Holy Spirit at the core; and, indeed, many teaching moments became preaching moments. Many of the members had never seen a bishop of the AME Church—much less a female bishop—and at the end of every session one could see the gratitude of the members not only for teaching, but for helping to curb the feeling of isolation that had pervaded the AME Church in the Dominican Republic.
All of the pastors, ministry students, and church leaders were presented by the Bishop with copies of an AME Pastor’s Manual in Spanish. The basis for the Pastor’s Manual comes from a project begun in 2003, when Presiding Elder Abraham Rodriguez had the 2000 Discipline translated into Spanish. A Committee was appointed by the Annual Conference to excerpt relevant passages and create a pastor’s guide. Yet, the translation was of marginal quality because of its being made by a Haitian Pentecostal minister. Additionally, the Committee utilized Pentecostal liturgy in the section “Services Used by the AME Church.” Once apprised of the error, Bishop Guidry commissioned me to retranslate the book, and it was presented during closing services in both of the Presiding Elders’ Districts. This book will serve until the entire Discipline is retranslated. Also, Bishop Guidry presented Presiding Elders Rodriguez and Jaime Coplin with robes, making them the first Dominican clergy to use vestments since the 1970’s.
Bishop Guidry’s trip in December targeted smaller churches in the South that had not been visited in August. Accompanying her on this sojourn were Celestine Palmer (Secretary to the Bishop), Rev. Stephanie Butler (District Consultant), and Dr. George Flowers (Secretary of Global Witness and Missions). Again the teaching workshops proved to be successful. A revival was conducted at the AME mission in Santiago. Although it is the second largest city in the Dominican Republic, the AME Church does not own a building there. Plans are in the making to build a large church in a newer part of the city. After the 2007 Annual Conference series, the 16th Episcopal District voted to let the Dominican Annual Conference host the 2008 Planning Meeting in order to strengthen district unity and better involve the Dominicans in District affairs.
The task to move the AME Church forward in the Dominican Republic—given its existing condition—is daunting. Bishop Guidry has made changes that will long be remembered as the AME Church endeavors to expand in Latin America and among Hispanic populations in the United States. By launching into the deep, Bishop Guidry has shown the Church that the catch is indeed plentiful. To God be the Glory, for the Church is moving on!
3. STATEBURG, SOUTH CAROLINA/SUMTER COUNTY -- THE HIGH HILLS AME CHURCH ANNUAL MISSIONARY DAY PROGRAM WAS HELD ON SUNDAY, MARCH 18, 2007:
Dr. Theressa Gregg James, former Supervisor, was the guest speaker. She delivered a powerful and inspiring message, as she challenged the Missionaries to come walk with her as we embark on our journey to “Fulfill the Mission.” The substance of her message was as follows:
“Fulfilling the Mission”
The work is solemn, the task may be difficult, the opportunity may be brief, and the path is so narrow; we shall do the work of missions anyway.
This is quite a very timely subject for your 2007 Missionary Day Program, because we live in deeply troubled times -- one crisis after another.
Come walk with me as we embark on our journey to fulfill the mission. There are no fees to pay!! “Your feet, your feet hurt! Oh, no, no!” We’ll, take your shoes off because we are about to go on a mission.
Time, however, is our major asset. We are blessed with a lifetime of it to assure that the hungry is fed, the naked clothed and the sick visited. THIS IS OUR MISSION!!
Missionaries…
We must walk where Christ Walks; Or He Does Not Walk.
We must stand where He Stands; Or He Does Not Stand.
We must be Strong as He would be; or His Strength Is Not Felt.
We must speak where He would speak; or He Is Not Heard.
Missionaries, let us fulfill the mission.
There’s
A Life to be lived in His name…
A Character to be fashioned after His Likeness…
A Service is be rendered in His Strength…
A Love to be expressed under His Mastery…
Finally,
Christ has no hands but our hands, to do His work today,
He has no feet but our feet; to lead folk in His way.
He has no tongue but our tongue; to tell folk how He died.
He has no help but our help; to bring them to His side.
Missionaries, Let us “Fulfill the Mission.” Thank You.
During this celebration, five (5) YPD’ers received Special Awards of Recognition for their participation in the 2006 Sumter County Public Library Summer Reading Program which was coordinated by Sister Wilhelmenia E. Miller, Local WMS First-Vice President. Dominique Rhodes read 20 books; Demetrius J. Roach read 20 books; Jaylon Gadson read 20 books; Jordan Gadson read 24 books; and Jayvon Gadson had 33 books read to him, by Jordan, Jaylon and other family members.
Four members of the WMS received Certificates of Recognition as a Testimonial and in Recognition of National Women’s History Month, for their contributions and achievement for the difference they have made in the Church and Community. They were Sisters, Bertha Gadaon Alston, Martha Webb Choice, Jennifer Vanita Jones Fennoy, and Maggie Weston Harris.
In August of 2006 our Missionary Society was named The Emma Louise Robinson Women’s Missionary Society of High Hills AME Church, in honor of our Local President, Mrs. Emma Louise Robinson.
Sister Emma Louise Robinson
President
Rev. Dr. James S. Cooper, pastor
Submitted by Sister Wilhelmenia Miller, First Vice President
4. CLERGY OF THE WEEK: THE REVEREND DR. JAMES F. MILLER BUILDS, MULTI-MILLION DOLLAR CHURCH & PROVIDES OVER $80,000 IN HUMAN RESOURCES:
Rev. Edrena Houston Brown, M.A.C.E.
Christian Recorder, staff writer
The Reverend Dr. James F. Miller, Pastor of DuPage A.M.E. Church, Lisle, Il., of the Fourth Episcopal District, he is known throughout the community and the A.M.E. Church as the largest predominantly African American Church in the County of Lisle, Illinois for Church Growth in Evangelism and one of the largest churches in the A.M.E. Connectional Church. He is a Pastor in the Fourth Episcopal District, where The Senior Bishop Philip R. Cousin, Sr., serves as the Presiding Prelate and The Reverend Clarence G. Robinson, is the Presiding Elder of the Chicago North District.
A History Maker of African Methodism, Visionary, Profound leader and Administrator, caring and nurturing are among his many attributes that is seen in his work in kingdom building, which distinguishes him as "Clergy of the Week."
A native of Chicago, IL; he is the son of the late Presiding Elder Roy L. Miller and the late Dr. Evelyn Davis Miller, who served in the fourth Episcopal District and the A.M.E. Church for over 50 years of dedicated and loyal service. He is married to the talented and gifted, Rev. Lana Parks Miller, M.Div., who serves as the Executive Pastor at DuPage A.M.E. Church and is an entrepreneur of two businesses, a counseling service and a marriage and family therapist agency. They are the proud parents of four children Morgan, Jimal, Ashley and Preston.
According to the Rev. Darryl Franklin, minister of pastoral support services at DuPage, on September 12, 1979, a plea was made at the African Methodist Episcopal Church's, Chicago Conference by Sidney Finley, Mary Lou Finley and Ernie Gibson to establish an A.M.E. Church in DuPage County. The purpose was to assist with the organizational and financial support of the church. The first organizational meeting was held September 20, 1979. The church grew to almost 200 members under the leadership of Reverend Donald Harwell until 1989. On October 4, 1989, Bishop J. Haskell Mayo, appointed Reverend James F. Miller, Pastor of DuPage A.M.E. Church.
The church history reflects that within a two year period after Rev. Miller's appointment to DuPage A.M.E. Church, a parsonage was purchased in Wheaton on January 17, 1990 and the parish house was purchased January 9, 1991. An administrative office was established in the parish house and the church employed a part time secretary. In a 1992 church newsletter, Rev. Miller's paragraphs reads:
”In the coming weeks you will begin to hear more about the vision God is giving me for our church family. I must be honest; it is a very ominous and foreboding vision. It is a vision pregnant with possibilities, but it will require of us more faith than we have ever been challenged to exhibit before. Quite frankly, I do not know if we are up to the task that we are now challenged to undertake; the purchase of land, the sale of our current property, the completion of plans for the new project, the inclusion an appropriation of new souls which God is sending us, the financial sacrifices which we must commit to; and to do all of this, weather every storm, conquer every mountain, with the love of Christ for our church and for each other. To do all with love, a love that can only be found in the precious church, which is referred to in heaven and earth as the bride of Christ!" This is a big order. And, even as the challenge presents itself I hear the words of Jesus written in Matthew 19:26, "with man it is impossible, but not with God, for with God, all things are possible!"
One year later, August 25, 1996 the first service was held in the new church located at 4300 Yackley Avenue, Lisle, Illinois. The dedication ceremony was officiated by the Presiding Prelate, Bishop Robert Thomas, Jr. Over the past 17 years, the congregation has grown from 200 members and has presently increased to over 2000 members. Their community outreach emphasizes, giving financial assistance to DuPage residents in crisis and over the years that assistance has exceeded a total of one-half million dollars to date.
Because of Rev. Miller's, obedience, faith, persistence, patience and trusting in God, the task of building a Multi-Million Dollar Church is a spiritual success. Also, the developing of a 501C-3 not-for-profit Human Resources Service Corporation, R.E.A.C.H. became a reality. Beginning 2004, this corporation has provided over $80,000 in cash goods to those in the community in need of financial assistance with rent/mortgage, food, utilities, clothing, medicine, bereavement and transportation expenses. This outreach is coordinated by Dr. Charles H. Sweet, an active member of DuPage and was recently honored by Rev. Dr. Miller for 50 years of service in Dentistry and for community service.
The church presently operates numerous active ministries and three Sunday morning worship services each week in spreading the gospel throughout the community and a radio broadcasting program weekly. Evangelism is a "Hallmark" of Pastor Miller's vision and has reached the masses throughout the State of Illinois in providing many ecumenical events and services.
He was instrumental in initiating along with another local pastor in the community, in honoring the late Dr. Martin L. King in local services and events for the community at Wheaton College, a private interdenominational Christian College that has provided opportunities for DuPage and the community.
However, this event has currently increased to over 2000 persons in attendance each year. DuPage is meeting the spiritual, emotional and environmental needs of the community.
Dr. Miller is a graduate of Morris Brown College, Atlanta, Georgia where he earned a Bachelor of Science Degree and both Masters of Divinity and Doctor of Ministry Degrees from McCormick Theological Seminary in Chicago. He presently serves as the Director of Christian Education for the Fourth Episcopal district of the A.M.E. Church, Vice-Chairman of the Chicago Conference Board of Trustees, Chairman of the Board of R.E.A.C.H., a 501(c)3 not-for-profit organization, a member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc., and a lifetime member of the NAACP. He formerly served on the Central DuPage Hospital Community Health Committee and has been an adjunct instructor at Wheaton College for 9 years.
Congratulations Pastor Miller, as you Empower others in service. And for your outstanding attributes in ministry and to all of the Believers of the Community of Faith.
*If you are interested in nominating your Pastor, Presiding Elder, clergy staff person, laity, or youth as "Clergy or laity of the week, please email your request to; ebrown49@hotmail.com
*Rev. Edrena Houston Brown, M.A.C.E. is a staff writer for the Christian Recorder.
6. GROUND BREAKING FOR FIRST A.M.E. CHURCH INDIO, CALIFORNIA:
On Sunday June 10, 2007 Rev. Timothy O. Coston Jr. and the members of First A.M.E. Church in Indio, California welcomed the long awaited event that signified an end to almost twenty years of struggle between the church and the City of Indio. Members of the church, the community, city officials, and other churches throughout the community were on hand for the groundbreaking ceremony of the new facility that will begin construction in July of this year.
The new church will be located at 44th Ave and Monroe St. and will once again be apart of a neighborhood community.
The neighborhood that once housed most of the First A.M.E. congregation was razed when the city used eminent domain in the 1980’s to pave the way for expansion of the Indio Fashion Mall by developer David Miller, owner of Miller’s Outpost clothing stores.
The mall expansion fell through due to lack of funding. Three churches and a couple of homes were all that remained standing in a four block vacant lot, in the heart of the city. This area, known as the John Nobles Ranch, was the first property owned by blacks in the City of Indio. First A.M.E. Church was incorporated in the same year that the City of Indio was established. Ironically, it was Rev. Coston’s father, the Rev. Timothy O. Coston Sr. whose first pastoral assignment was First A.M.E. Indio, who initially led the marches against city hall in protest of the eminent domain proceedings.
Through much negotiation and prayer the church and city came to an agreement and the church property was purchased by the city for $1.5 million dollars. The city is now cooperating to assist the congregation in relocating to its new site.
Construction on the new church is estimated to take 7 to 9 months.
We thank God for using us and allowing us to be part of this historic event for both First A.M.E. and the City of Indio. We are honored to be part of the 5th Episcopal District’s Southern California Conference and would like to thank our bishop John R. Bryant and our presiding elder Dr. Howard S. Gloyd for their prayers and support. We send a special thank you to Presiding Elder Norman D. Copeland for presiding over our groundbreaking services.
The new facility will be 6,600 square feet and have a worship capacity of 253.
7. OPEN LETTER TO ALL CANDIDATES FROM THE CONNECTIONAL LAY ORGANIZATION OF THE AFRICAN METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH 30TH BIENNIAL SESSION:
To All Candidates:
Congratulations on your decision to offer yourself for service to the African Methodist Episcopal Church.
As we move beyond the walls, the Connectional Lay Organization aspires to bring forth and live the vision for today’s Zion. Consequently, on Saturday, July 14th, 2007, in conjunction with 30th Biennial Session of the Connectional Lay Organization, we have included on our agenda a Candidate’s Forum. The Forum will be held in Washington, DC at the Wardman Park Marriott Hotel.
This Forum will provide an opportunity to learn, explore, talk about, inquire and formulate preliminary opinions and decisions pertinent to the key issues that will be presented at the 48th Quadrennial Session of the General Conference in St. Louis, Missouri. It promises to be one of the most informative, decisive and strategic gatherings for the members of our great Zion.
On July 14, 2007, a “Get to Know the Candidate” forum has been designed to allow members the opportunity to dialogue one on one with persons seeking elected positions. In order for you to be an active participant in this session, we are requesting that you forward your aspiration intentions/platform before July 2, 2007.
All information must be typewritten and should not exceed one page.
The cost to have this information included in the “Get to Know the Candidate” booklet is $100.00.
Additionally, if you plan to attend the Summit and would like to be a participant in the “Get to Know the Candidate” session, please complete the attached form and forward it with your platform.
Make plans now to be in attendance at this Non Conventional Forum. Hotel reservations must be guaranteed by June 15, 2007.
This meeting will be a great opportunity for you as a candidate to not only be introduced to the Laity but also hear the issues that the Lay Organization will raise at the General Conference.
Please forward ALL information to: Mrs. Eileen S. Warner at: Post Office Box 7682, Tallahassee, Florida 32314; (FAX) (850) 224-3591; or e-mail: instruct926@aol.com on or before Monday; July 2, 2007. All payments must accompany platform. Please make checks payable to: The Connectional Lay Organization.
Jesse L. Burns, Jr., President
Submitted by Mrs. Eileen S. Warner
8. BISHOP VASHTI MURPHY MCKENZIE PREACHED AT THE HU MINISTERS’ CONFERENCE:
Rev. G. “Paris” M. Kelly
The Greek philosopher Socrates once stated, “I don’t know” which caused him his life. During the 93rd Annual Ministers Conference of Hampton University, hosted from June 5-8, 2007 at Hampton University, Bishop Vashti Murphy McKenzie embraced the conference with the statement “I don’t Know” as an opening thought to the awaiting convention of over 10,000 attendees during the afternoon sessions at Hampton. Bishop McKenzie shared with the conference how difficult these words are and how she has complexly had to deal with the “I don’t knows.”
The scripture text for which the Bishop of the 13th Episcopal District of the African Methodist Episcopal Church came from Exodus 4:12. As the Lord was speaking to Moses “Now therefore go, and I will be with your mouth, and teach you what you shall say.” Bishop McKenzie spoke of the uncertainties which she had when the call to preach came to her not alone the call to the Episcopal Office of a Bishop. Becoming a historical figure in the history of African Methodism wasn’t really her dream. However, being a product of greatness it was and is expected that she would end up in a place where she really didn’t understand and had to say, “I don’t know.” As Harriet Tubman didn’t really fully understand how she where she was by exporting over 300 slaves to freedom in 19 different trips, Bishop McKenzie still is asking God what’s next.
It is noted that Bishop McKenzie served as a pastor of the historic Payne Memorial A.M.E. Church in Baltimore, Maryland. Seemingly when an individual begins to make history in one area the legacy of history continues to expand. Being a product of history as an offspring of one of the founders of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority should tell us something about the character of this 177th elected and consecrated Bishop. In Economics the Greek symbol delta means (change). Therefore, what Bishop Richard Allen, the founder of the A.M.E. Church and Bishop Vashti McKenzie have in common is that they are both products of change.
Becoming a Bishop is really not an easy task. As the former Chief Bookkeeper of the A.M.E., Church Financial Department 1988, I experienced first hand, the General Conference sessions of 1988, 1992, 1996 and 2004. The election process is demanding, yet the year of her election I missed the session due to a family emergency. However, the result of the election has spoken. The news report showed a female had blazed the trail and the door of opportunity for other females to dream had opened because of the braveness of this woman who introduced Change to the A.M.E. denomination and to the country.
As a tribute to Bishop Richard Allen and Bishop McKenzie a “Money Art” piece has been designed to commemorate achievement of this great woman of God. Who else in the history of the Church could carry the mantle of “1816?” Bishop Richard Allen was consecrated as Bishop of the A.M.E. Church in the year of 1816. It is clear that God’s grace is upon this woman of God. She did not know, that the Presidential candidate Barack Obama would be speaking to the conference the very same day that she would. As Bishop McKenzie and Congressman Bobbie Scott patiently waited in the Press Room the Lord showed up to bring her his blessings which was an original one of a kind “Money Art” piece, which reads, “A.M.E. 1816.” Special thanks to President William Curtis for allowing the Lord to use him to open the window of heaven to this woman of God.
9. LOCAL CHURCH HONORS ATHENS AND CAYUGA SENIORS:
By: Delanda S. Johnson
On Sunday, June 10, Allen Chapel AME Church in Athens, Texas under the leadership of Rev. Mary Miller honored two Athens High School Seniors and one Cayuga High School Senior.
Candace Brown, Tarence Cook, and James P. Tatum all are active members of Allen Chapel and each student is looking forward to starting college in the fall.
The service was also in honor of two former Pastors of the church the late Rev. S. V. Ferguson and the late Rev. Rhondal Napier.
Each Pastor was remembered as one who cared deeply for their church, their community, and for their young people. The late Rev. Ferguson and Rev. Napier stressed to their youth that you can achieve anything and with God’s help all things are possible.
The speaker for the evening Rev. Bill Burton spoke to the students with the subject being “Reach.”
“As you enter the life of adulthood, there is nothing out your REACH. You must say to yourself that I can achieve and believe. Let no one deter you from your goal,” said Burton.
Burton stressed that you will be making your own decision, so make the right choice. Your mothers will not be there to help, so you as young adults will need to rely on your own knowledge and know that God is always there with an answer.
Burton said, “For each one of you the world may show you glitter and gold, but know that you must work for everything that you have and will have in life. You must know that nothing comes easy, but if you study and work hard, you can be the best in whatever you do.”
Burton went on the say, “Knowledge is power, so be empowered and be encouraged; that your church family will be there for you when you need them. Know that you are the future and we are relying on you to set the standards very high. Know to always put God first and HE will direct your path.”
The program moved forward with special recognition (certificates) given to Mrs. Ferguson in honor of her late husband and to Mrs. Napier in honor of her late son.
The church also presented the three students with gifts and a small reception after the program.
10. BODY & SOUL - CONTACT US IF YOU HAVE A BODY & SOUL PROGRAM:
The AME Church Connectional Health Commission is seeking all of its churches that have a Body & Soul program. Have you had the program for more than 2 years or are you a new starter? The Connectional Health Commission would like to find out who you are and contact you.
In case you are wondering what we’re talking about…the Body & Soul Program is a health ministry program for African-American churches that promotes eating 5 to 9 fruits and vegetables a day to promote cancer prevention. The program works by including: pastoral leadership, educational activities, and a church environment that supports healthy eating and peer counseling. Now, your program may not be called Body & Soul, but if it resembles any of what’s been described here we’d like to here from you.
We are in partnership with the National Cancer Institute and others and would like to help you take advantage of the resources available. Please contact us at 877-697-1994 or bodyandsoulforchurches@yahoo.com so that we can talk to you.
Contact us if you have a Body & Soul program.
We look forward to hearing from you!
11. NEWS AROUND THE CHURCH:
Rev. Edrena Houston Brown reports:
Bishop Vashti McKenzie, Presiding Bishop of the 13th Episcopal District will be the Guest Preacher of the hour for the Women's Day prayer breakfast at DuPage A.M.E. Church, Lisle, IL, the Rev. Dr. James F. Miller, pastor on Saturday, June 16, 2007 8:30 a.m., at the Wyndham Lisle Hotel. Donation for a ticket is: $25.00 per person.
You are cordially invited to attend the Annual Men's Day Observance, Sunday, June 17, 2007 at 11:00 a.m., Greater Bethel A.M.E. Church, 370 Deerfield Beach Avenue, Deerfield Beach, Florida. Reverend Daniel Brown, Jr., is the Pastor.
Mt. Pisgah A.M.E. Church, Rev. Reginald McRae, pastor, will celebrate their Annual Men's day Celebration, on Sunday, June 24, 2007 at 11:00 a.m., the church is located at 354 Forrest Street Jersey City, New Jersey June 24, 2007. The theme for this event is; "No Man Left Behind" The Guest Preacher of the hour will be Reverend Kenneth Saunders, Pastor of Selton A.M.E. Church, Piscataway, New Jersey. Come and be blessed!
You are cordially invited to attend "The Supervisor's Fashion Show" Episcopal Supervisor, Mrs. Carol Isabella Messiah will be held on Wednesday, June 27, 2007 at 12:30 p.m., held at Saint Paul A.M.E. Church 639 East Long Street, Columbus, Ohio. Fashions and Models are provided by Pieces for Wear, Joyce Hannah Beatty, proprietor. The proceeds from the luncheon will benefit the 20th Episcopal District, Girl Child Scholarship program.
The Bishop's Council and General Board Session will convene on June 24-26, 2007, Columbus, Ohio. For further information please call (614) 228-4113.
The Volunteer Center of Dekalb Medical Center, Atlanta, Georgia and the Saint Paul A.M.E. Church, Lithonia, Georgia, The Reverend Dr. Marvin L. Crawford, Pastor will celebrate a "Unity Reception" on Sunday, June 24, 2007 at 3:00 p.m., in the celebration of their wellness and healthy living partnership for the community. The community is cordially invited to attend.
12. READ THE BIBLE THROUGH IN ONE-YEAR:
Read the One Year Bible from your desktop. There are daily readings from the Old Testament, New Testament, Psalms, and Proverbs. Invest fifteen minutes each day and you will read the entire Bible in a year.
Click on the link above or put www.oneyearbibleonline.com/ in your web browser.
13. THE PASTOR’S CORNER - WHAT WE BELIEVE:
All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work. (II Timothy 3: 16-17)
Just as new members to the Body of Christ are instructed in what we believe and how the Body operates, so will every member of the Body benefit and grow through a focused study on “What We Believe.”
According to II Timothy 3:16-17 Scripture is our guide to knowing God the Father, through Jesus Christ the Son, by the power of the Holy Spirit. One’s attitude toward Scripture influences greatly how one sees God. If I believe the Bible is the word of God, I will operate differently than if I don’t believe the Bible is the word of God. Someone once gave me an acronym for the word Bible: B-I-B-L-E – “Basic Instructions before Leaving Earth.” The Word becomes my guide for living. We are being equipped by God with what we need to flourish and prosper in life.
Here’s what we get every time we open the Scripture:
First we get teaching. The Scriptures give meaning, instruction, and guidance (God – U & I – dance) for life. The New Testament concept of teaching is taken from a Greek word that has to do with conveying. It’s analogous to one grasping an item then handing it off to another. When we read and study God’s word, we are grasping meaning and as it becomes a part of who we are we then pass it on to another; we are grasping instruction and passing it on; we are grasping guidance and passing it on.
Next is the benefit of rebuking sin. To rebuke is to hold down or turn away. When Michael the archangel contended with Satan for the body of Moses (Jude 9), Michael the archangel said to Satan, “The Lord rebuke you.” Here, rebuke describes what we are to reject, get rid of, halt or stop.
The third benefit of scripture is that of correcting those in error. To correct is simply a matter of setting things in order. As children, my brothers and I would help our father stake the butter beans and tomato plants. If we did it incorrectly, our father would simply point out our errors and direct us in how to make the situation right. The Scriptures call us to repentance so we can recognize our errors, change and make right the condition of our lives.
The final benefit stated by Paul to young Timothy is training in righteousness or walking in the will of God. Not only do the Scriptures show us the way to go, they demonstrate how to get there in our daily living. The Scriptures are the central tool for developing ourselves as members of the Body of Christ.
Knowing and communicating to others what we believe can be an effective means of sharing the gospel. Below is a copy of Quinn Chapel AMEC, Chicago’s welcome message to new friends attending worship service and candidates attending the membership class. This statement reflects how one’s attitude toward Scripture influences how we see God and how we operate our lives.
Welcome Message
II Timothy 3:16 – 17 reminds us that, “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correction and training in righteousness, so that the person of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.” What better way to operate a church than under the guidance of Scripture?
At Quinn Chapel A.M.E. Church, we have chosen to have God Almighty guide us in our daily operations through his Holy Word. Each meeting of every group in the church is started with prayer, Scripture, and a brief homily that explains the passage previously read.
Spirited Sunday morning worship is capped off by the teaching of the Word from the pulpit designed to provide worshippers the spiritual food required to advance in their spiritual walk as well as “flourish abundantly another week.” Focused, topical studies allow members to engage the Bible in those areas of interests to their individual lives.
Good stewardship and financial accountability are maintained by conducting the business of the church in alignment with the Word of God. Members are taught to tithe on the increase God has brought in their lives and fundraising is prohibited so the Body remains focused on the true purpose of the Church, sharing the gospel.
We invite you to be a part of the celebration of God’s presence here at Quinn Chapel African Methodist Episcopal Church. Together we can experience rebirth that comes from being unified through Jesus Christ, our Lord.
The Rev. James M. Moody is the pastor of Quinn Chapel AME Church, Chicago
14. EPISCOPAL FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
The 16th Episcopal District Supervisor, Don W. Guidry passed away early on the morning of June 14, 2007 at the Veteran's Administration hospital in West Los Angeles, California.
Services for Supervisor Don W. Guidry
Wednesday, June 20, 2007
10:00 A.M.
Services Entrusted to:
Simpson Family Mortuary
3443 W. Manchester Blvd.
Inglewood, CA 90305
323 752-5524 Phone
323-752-7710 Fax
Mr. Jimmy Ansley, Director
The family will receive friends and well wishers at the Simpson Chapel on Tuesday evening from 6:00 p.m.-8: p. m.
Funeral Services:
First A.M. E. Church
2270 So. Harvard Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90018
The Rev. John Hunter, pastor
Burial Services:
Rose Hills Memorial Park
3888 S. Workman Mill Road
Whittier, CA
562-699-0921
Accommodations for those traveling to Los Angeles
The LAX Radisson Hotel
6225 W. Century Boulevard
Los Angeles, CA
310 670-9000
Rate $109.00 single/double
Available Monday and Tuesday - June 18-19
Phone: 310 670-9000
Ask for: Tyler Guidry Family Services
In Lieu of flowers, you may wish to contribute to: 16th Episcopal District Fund rebuilding project for Hickman A.M.E. Church in Grenada, W.I.
16th Episcopal District Fund (Rebuilding project for Hickman A.M.E. Church in Grenada, W.I.)
1968 W. Adams Blvd. Suite 314
Los Angeles, CA
Make checks payable to: 16th Episcopal District Fund
Condolences and Expressions of Sympathy May Be Sent to:
Bishop Carolyn Tyler Guidry
3527 Olympiad Drive
Los Angeles, CA 90043
(323) 293-6555
E-mail: GirlBishop122@aol.com
Please remember Bishop Guidry and the family in your prayers.
15. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
Charlie Wayne Lee, a member of St. John African Methodist Episcopal Church, Fairburn, Georgia; Reverend B. A. Hart, pastor died on Friday, June 8, 2007. Mr. Lee is the husband of Mrs. Sarah B. Lee and the brother of the Reverend Hartford Lee, the Presiding Elder of the North Orlando District-11th Episcopal District.
Services for Mr. Lee will be:
The wake: Friday, June 15, 2007, from 6 pm to 8 pm at Greater Mt. Zion AME Church; 890 SW 4th Street; Homestead, FL 33030, Reverend Jimmy Williams, pastor; (321) 245-8761.
Funeral services: Saturday, June 16, 2007 at 1:30 PM at Covenant Missionary Baptist Church, 1055 NW 6th Avenue; Florida City, Florida 33034; Reverend Curtis Thomas, Pastor (305) 248-5561)
The family is asking that instead of flowers, that a donation be sent in honor of Brother Lee to the youth group, The Vessels of Praise at St. John AME Church; 305 West Campbellton Street; Fairburn, GA 30213
TEL 770-969-0779. This group was special to Brother Lee.
Funeral arrangements have been entrusted:
Donaldson & Fryar Funeral Home
967 W. Lucy Street
Florida City, Florida 33034
Phone: (305) 247-0159
Condolences may be sent to:
Mrs. Sarah Lee
340 Sunderland Way
Stockbridge, Georgia 30281
(678) 289-4887or
Reverend Hartford Lee
2450 King Richard Road
Melbourne, Florida 32778
(321) 254-7647
Email: Lhartford@cfl.rr.com
16. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
The passing of Mrs. Ceola J. Seaborn, 91, the mother of Mrs. Maxine Seaborn Thompson and the mother-in-law of Reverend Edward Lee Thompson, pastor of Lee Chapel AME Church, Nashville, TN.
Services arrangements for Ceola J. Seaborn:
Wednesday, June 13, 2007
Visitation: 10:00 AM - 11:50 AM
Homegoing Services: 12 NOON
Friendship Baptist Church
1355 Vollentine Avenue
Memphis, TN 38107
The Rev. Walter Green, officiating
Burial in New Park Cemetery
Professional services entrusted to:
R. S. Lewis & Sons Funeral Home
374 Vance Avenue
Memphis, TN 38126
Phone: (901) 526-3264
Fax: (901) 526-3265
Expressions of sympathy may be sent to:To the family of Mrs. Ceola J. Seaborn210 Elmer StreetMemphis, TN 38109(901) 785-4412 Phone Contact
Email condolences may be sent to: elthompson@wans.net
17. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
Marquitta Daniel the oldest daughter of the Rev. Dr. Alex and Mrs. Burnece B. Holloway departed this life on Wednesday Night at 10:28 P.M.
Reverend Holloway is a retired minister in the 12th District, having last pastored at St. John A.M.E. Church, Tulsa. He was also a former Presiding Elder in the 12th District.
Service Arrangements:
Home going Celebration Wednesday, June 13, 2007 - 1:00 P.M.
Fairview Baptist Church
Downtown Oklahoma City, OK
Funeral Home:
Rolfe Funeral Home
2936 NE 36
Oklahoma City, OK 73111
405-424-4136
Contact Address:
9122 Orange Drive
Midwest City, Ok 73130
405-737-4433
mzbbholloway@sbcglobal.net
Please remember the Holloway family in your prayers.
18. 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
19. 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
