Bishop Gregory G. M. Ingram - Chair, Commission on Publications
The Reverend Dr. Johnny Barbour, Jr., Publisher
The Reverend Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III, Editor
EDITOR’S NOTE: The article below shares the experience of the Reverend Leon Francis Bruce who experienced what was apparently racial profiling while driving to his mother’s funeral. The Family Bereavement Notice for the mother of the Reverend Francis appeared in the June 2, 2007 edition of The Christian Recorder Online. Rev. Bruce is the pastor of Macedonia AME Church in Rex, Georgia. His mother’s funeral was held in Youngstown, Ohio and he drove from Georgia to Youngstown.
While driving in Ohio, he was followed and eventually stopped by the police and police backup. Rev. Bruce’s account of the events clearly leads me to believe that he was stopped as a result of racial profiling or Driving While Black (DWB). Racial profiling is an abhorrent practice that needs to be stopped; it’s degrading and demeaning.
I know Reverend Bruce and he has the appearance and the demeanor of a professional. If the policeman who stopped him had a modicum of common sense and grasp on human nature, after speaking with Rev. Bruce would have released him to continue on his journey.
When I taught at Hampton University, in the first meeting of a class at the beginning of the semester, I could identify the A and B students. It didn’t take rocket science to figure out the top students and the students who were going to struggle. The point that I am trying to make is that human behavior is not hard to figure out and policemen should be trained in human nature, behavior, and interaction.
Even in racial profiling, those in law enforcement should be able to pick up on a person’s demeanor and professional bearing. In Reverend Bruce’s case, the sheriff did not have the judgment or good sense to pick up on Rev. Bruce’s demeanor; and added to that, he apparently concocted a lie about stopping him for having a frame around his rear license plate that obstructed the view of his "sticker."
Read Reverend Bruce’s account of what happened to him in Medina County Ohio and especially pay attention to what Rev. Bruce’s lawyer friend said about not consenting to let the police search your vehicle.
1. A CLEAR CASE OF "RACIAL PROFILING" - AME PREACHER ON HIS WAY TO HIS MOTHER’S FUNERAL STOPPED AND HARASSED BY NOT ONE, BUT TWO POLICEMEN:
On Wednesday, May 30th. I went to Ohio to prepare for the Homegoing celebration of my dearly departed mother. I took this opportunity to drive from Atlanta, Georgia to Youngstown, Ohio.
As I made my exit off of Interstate 71 onto Interstate 76, Medina County, Ohio I noticed a Sheriff's vehicle sitting in the center divide. I drove past this vehicle driving at the legal speed limit when I saw that the Sheriff's vehicle had pulled out onto the Interstate and was now following me. When I got off the Interstate to refuel, with the thought that if the officer had a problem with me he would certainly say something to me at the gas station he instead followed me to the gas station but did not stop. He drove around the back of the gas station, back to the front, looked at me, and got back on the on ramp heading towards the direction I was traveling.
When I got back on the Interstate the officer then proceeded to follow me again. I pulled in between to semi's to allow him to go past, but he got behind me and one of the trucks. At this point after tailing me for about three minutes he finally turned on his lights for me to pull over. When I did the officer comes up to my automobile, 2003 Chevy Tahoe with tinted windows, and asked me for my information. I handed him the required material along with my church business card. He then asked where I was coming from and what my purpose was. I explained to him that my mother had just passed and I was on my way to make arrangements for her funeral service. He then asked me if this was my truck. To which I said yes it was.
He then took my information and went his vehicle to run my license number. One minute later another officer arrives and asked me if I had any drugs or weapons on me or in the vehicle. When I said no, that I don't smoke, drink, or do drugs, he asked me to step from the vehicle and that he wanted to search me, which, since I was not guilty of any crime, agreed to. He patted me down and then said he wanted to let his K-9 do a search of the perimeter of my truck. Again, I agreed to this. Upon finding nothing he told me I could return to my truck.
Following this the other officer returned and informed that the reason I was pulled over was because I had a frame around my rear license plate that obstructed the view of my "sticker." He issued me a warning and asked that I fix/remove the frame. I informed him that I would do so when I arrived at my destination.
Let the records reflect that I have driven several vehicles with the same frame on them throughout the states of Georgia, South Carolina, Alabama, Kentucky, Tennessee, etc., and never have I been pulled over for this issue until this particular day.
I called an attorney friend of mine and told him I was just a victim of Racial Profiling. After explaining to him what had just taken place he said it was a clear case of DWB (Driving While Black). He also advised me to never consent to a search of my vehicle if ever stopped again. His contention was that an officer could "plant" something on your car and it would be my word against theirs. He also stated that they will probably search the car anyway, but they will have to record that you did not consent to the search.
While I did not find any pleasure in the incident that took place, I said to my self and several relatives and friends that after driving for over thirty years this is certainly a first. I have mentioned the problems with being African American and driving certain vehicles in many sermons, but never have I had to be subjected to this type of unjust stereotyping. Allow me to encourage all of my fellow drivers to make sure that you have the proper documentation with you when you travel, remain cool and calm. And most of all do not act suspiciously or out of character. Let calmer heads and hearts prevail.
Pastor B. L. Francis
2. PAYNE THEOLOGICAL SEMINARY HISTORICAL MARKER CELEBRATION:
Over one hundred people gathered to celebrate the unveiling of an Ohio Historical Marker, commemorating Payne Theological Seminary on May 18. The Ohio Historical Society’s Historical Marker program enables Ohioans to commemorate and celebrate local history and to learn more about the state. Payne’s marker was made possible by the tireless effort of Ms. Valena Randolph, supported by the National Afro-American Museum and Cultural Center and Mrs. Urcelle Willis the leading motivating force in helping to make the historical marker a reality. Friends for Payne a volunteer, fund -raising support group, which was established in 1993 by Mrs. Nancy P. Stokes, were responsible for the sponsorship of the project.
The 162-year-old institution, named for its founder the late Bishop Daniel Alexander Payne located in historic Wilberforce, Ohio, has a rich history as the oldest freestanding African American seminary in the United States. Payne’s origin traces back to the Ohio Conference of the African Methodist Episcopal Church, which met in Columbus Ohio, on October 18, 1844.
To commemorate the event, the honorable Phyllis Pennewitt, Mayor of Xenia, Ohio, gave a proclamation and Rachel Tooker deputy director of the Ohio Historical Society made remarks. Mrs. Nancy Stokes, Mrs. Lillie Massie, president of Friends for Payne and Mrs. Urcelle Willis unveiled the bronze marker. In addition, Payne’s first female president, Dr. Leah Gaskin Fitchue shared with the audience the significance of the moment for her that was, “evidencing the partnership Payne has with the Wilberforce Community and its special relationship with the Friends for Payne”. Retired Bishop The Right Reverend Vinton Anderson, Chairman of the Board of Trustees and member of Payne’s graduating class of 1952, reflected on his earlier experiences as a student at the seminary and spoke about the highlights of his nearly 20 year history as Chairman of Payne’s Board of Trustees.
Other Distinguished guests joining this historic celebration included five other esteemed Bishops of the African Methodist Episcopal Church:
The Right Reverend Richard Franklin Norris, First Episcopal District; the Right Reverend Robert Vaughn Webster, Third Episcopal District; the Right Reverend Cornal Garnett Henning, Sr., Eighth Episcopal District; the Right Reverend Wilfred Jacobus Messiah, Twentieth Episcopal District; Retired Bishop, the Right Reverend Zedekiah LaZett Grady, and Retired general officer Dr. Jamye C. Williams.
Also in attendance was John W. Garland, President of Central State University.
3. THE REVEREND ESTELLA EDWARDS SHABAZZ IS THE FIRST WOMAN TO BE ORDAINED AS AN ITINERANT ELDER IN THE GEORGIA ANNUAL CONFERENCE OF THE AME CHURCH WITH A MASTER OF DIVINITY DEGREE:
The Reverend Estella Edwards Shabazz is now an Itinerant Elder in the African Methodist Episcopal Church (AME) worldwide. The Presiding Bishop of the Sixth Episcopal District of the AME Church (Georgia), Bishop William DeVeaux, conducted the service at the 142nd Session of the Georgia Annual Conference of the AME Church. This service was held at St. Philip A. M. E. Church on Martin Luther King, Jr. Blvd. in Savannah on Thursday, April 12, 2007.
Rev. Shabazz along with her husband, Bro. Yusuf Shabazz, their children and family would like to thank Bishop William P. DeVeaux, Pastor George A. Moore, Jr., Rev. Dr. John Foster, Rev. Dr. Cassandra Mency Hill, Reverends Stephen Lee, Catherine Mathis, Terry Alexander, Charlie Fogle, all other ministers, church members, friends, and the entire community for your prayers, support, attendance and expressions of kind words during this historic and momentous occasion.
Reverend Shabazz is the first woman to be ordained as an Itinerant Elder in the Georgia Annual Conference of the AME Church with a Master of Divinity degree. She earned her degree in 2005 from Turner Theological Seminary at the Interdenominational Theological Center in Atlanta, GA.
With the Lord being her guide and helper, Rev. Shabazz will continue as Co-Pastor at St. Philip Monumental African Methodist Episcopal Church in Savannah, and as Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus writes in I Timothy 2:7 KJV: “Whereunto I am ordained a preacher, and an apostle, (I speak the truth in Christ, [and] lie not); a teacher of the Gentiles in faith and verity (truth).
Reprinted with permission of The Savannah Herald, Khristi A. Chisholm
Associate Editor.
4. ST. STEPHEN-DETROIT CELEBRATES A “MOTHER OF PEARL”:
Harriet Payne Young
Sunday, April 22, 2007, was “Mother Dolorez Allen Hunter Day” at St. Stephen African Methodist Episcopal Church, 6000 John E. Hunter Drive, Detroit, Michigan. Mother Hunter is a revered and treasured member of the St. Stephen family.
During the morning worship service, a commemorative observance was given under the auspices of the Steward Board. Mrs. Walter Jean Jackson, President Pro Tem of the Steward Board, rendered heartfelt congratulatory remarks as she presented a beautiful Plaque of Appreciation to the honoree. Mother Hunter’s response was spirit-filled, expressing her love for St. Stephen and the sharing of our prayers for one another. She gave the assurance that distance cannot break the ties that bind us.
Cards and gifts were received in a pretty hatbox reminiscent of Mother Hunter’s “love of hats.” The Reverend Mrs. Juanita Bowman, wife of the former Pastor Bowman (presently Presiding Elder Delano L. Bowman) made a presentation of a unique purse fashioned of dollar bills. Pastor Alfred E. Johnson paid homage in his singular manner, sparked with humor. He in turn placed a lovely corsage upon her wrist.
In retrospect, Dolorez Allen Hunter joined St. Stephen in 1972 as “First Lady” with the late Reverend John Ellsworth Hunter who is the first and only pastor elected from St. Stephen to the Bishopric: Serving as prelate of the 15th and 19th districts of South Africa.
During their service in Africa, she worked diligently among the youths and adults. A church school there bears her name. In the African tradition, she was given the esteemed title “Mother.”
Subsequently, she has contributed devotional literature to the publication of “Missionaries on the Move,” compiled by Dorothy Young. She is also a contributor to History of the A.M.E. Women’s Missionary Society.
Returning to Detroit upon Bishop Hunter’s call from labor to reward, she has served faithfully “at home” at St. Stephen, retaining her membership of 35 years.
She was appointed to the Steward Board by the Rev. Dr. Harold C. Huggins (presently, retired Presiding Elder Emeritus). She is a tireless participant in the Emily E. Vernon Missionary Society: a life member, and the St. Stephen Library Ministry. She was declared a “St. Stephen Bridge Builder” in the year 2000 by the Historical Remembrance Ministry.
In addition to numerous church activities, she dedicated a large bronze altar cross, which is mounted in the “upper room” chapel of the Huggins Administration Building in memory of the late Bishop John E. Hunter.
Immediately following the morning worship service, a heart warming reception was held in the lower J.D. Howell Historical Hall. Members and friends bade Lady Hunter a fond farewell upon her departure for Dallas, Texas where she will relocate with her daughter, son-in-law and grandchildren.
Among distinguished guests were: her daughter, Cynthia Hunter Spann, Bishop Robert Thomas and Mother Beverly Thomas, Presiding Elder Harold C. Huggins and Sister Martha Huggins, Sister Pamela Osborne (Presiding Elder Norman V. Osborne), Rev. Mrs. Juanita Bowman (Presiding Elder Delano L. Bowman), Host Pastor Alfred E. Johnson and First Lady Joyce Johnson.
The honoree is the mother of Marion Lynn Hunter Boynes- Indianapolis, Indiana, Cynthia Ethel Hunter Spann-Dallas, Texas, and the Rev. Dr. John Joseph Hunter, Pastor of First A.M.E. Church-Los Angeles, California. She is the grandmother of two children and great grandmother of three.
Submitted by:
Harriett L. Payne Young (Mrs.)
16647 Parkside
Detroit, MI 48221
Phone: 313-862-2466
Fax: 313-862-9376
Email: janyoung198@comcast.net
5. THE "HEALING EMPOWERMENT MINISTRY INSTITUTE":
Rev. Jimmie McDonald
The biggest need in the world today is finances! Lack of finances and economic instability creates a variety of symptoms; stress, anxiety, panic attacks, divorce and sicknesses of all kinds. But, merely treating the symptoms does not alleviate the continued problems that cycle through ones' life....... we must learn to deal with the initial problem...... the root of the issues, which is Fear.
Most healing ministries today focus on the symptoms and have not yet learned to identify the 'Root' of the sickness....... Most ministries today start with the directive to 'begin meeting the needs of the people' and end up babysitting an endless supply of symptoms of deeper issues in the lives of those they desire to help....... they focus on the needs and treat the symptoms, which leaves ministers starting somewhere in the middle of the problem with little direction on how to proceed to bring true freedom and abundant living to the people they so desperately want to lead.
Where there is a 'hurt' in a person, sickness goes to the weakest place in that person's physical body to manifest itself. Rogue cells actually have a 'thinking ability' and move through the body by fear........ we can call it 'terror'.
We get stuck in cycles of living under the influence of stress and anxiety in the world - as this becomes the 'norm', people get stuck here psychologically...... our minds continually inundated and stimulated by negativity.
Babies do not come into the world with Fear. Have you ever seen a shy baby? There is no such thing. Shyness is a learned trait that becomes a form of 'self-protection'.... shyness exists because a spirit of fear is at work in that life.
One who is known as a Perfectionist is operating under the influence of a spirit of Fear........ they have a fear of not being good enough or not measuring up.
People that are not teachable put up walls of rejection.......
Everyone has an ability to move in a level of the word of knowledge - it comes naturally to us, but we are not taught that this is the gift of God, which is available to His people..... the ''hunches" that people have are left as just that, seldom encouraged as the supernatural knowledge that it is.
Jesus actually traveled with an entourage that supported him in the work of the ministry ~
Luke 4:18 (KJV)
18 The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he hath anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor; he hath sent me to heal the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised,
6. NEWS AROUND THE AME CHURCH:
Kay Taylor Hightower has been appointed Director of Field Operations for Hillary Rodham Clinton's presidential campaign for the State of South Carolina. Kay is the daughter of Sioux Nichols Taylor of Mt. Vernon, NY and granddaughter of the late Bishop Decatur Ward Nichols, the 59th elected Bishop of the A.M.E. Church.
7. AME CHURCH FINANCE OFFICE/LIVING LEGACY PROGRAM:
The AME Church Finance Office wants to recognize, honor and celebrate the lives and contributions of deceased individuals who have made a contribution to our Zion at the 2008 General conference.
Please provide the names, photos and brief bios of individuals who have passed on to the other side but made a difference while on this side. There is no cost to participate.
Mission of the Living Legacy Program:
Our mission is a call to honor our servants and to celebrate their lives by chronicling their contributions to our Zion. It is also a call to seize economic control of our destiny by investing dollars today to benefit future generations.
Purpose:
The purpose of the Living Legacy Program is to create a planned giving ministry that fulfills and supports the quadrennial “Living Well” focus of the Council of Bishops. The Living Legacy Program will help strengthen the AME Church and its local congregations by building healthy church endowments and by encouraging people around the world to share their gifts with the ministries of the African Methodist Episcopal Church.
The Wall of Life:
The Wall of Life recognizes those individuals who have made a minimum monetary donation of $2,500 to support any AME church or ministry. After December 1, 2007, only people making an “endowed” gift will be added. The names, bios and photos of individuals appear in each Book of Life. The Wall of Life will also be electronic and viewed by accessing the AME Church finance website.
How is someone included on the Wall of Life or Book of Life?
- Submit name and photo of the person who has made a gift or pledge;
- Submissions are placed on the Wall of Life, www.ame-churchfinance.com living legacy tab and in the Book of Life, published every two years;
- Donor is allowed to designate the AME Church or ministry their funds support;
- Donor must complete questionnaire and provide proof of his/her pledge.
The Book of Life:
The Book of Life is a book that contains the names, bios and photos of individuals from each Episcopal District who have made a significant contribution to the Church. The first book will be published in time for the 2008 General Conference.
Opportunity to Be Recognized For Past Gifts:
Recognizing that each church has outstanding members who have given substantial support to the their local churches the Living Legacy Program will be accepting nominations for the Wall of Life for past gifts of $2,500 or more given to fund ministry. We are requesting that churches if possible provide the proof of gift, name, photo, and bio of each individual to the AME Church Finance office by no later than December 1, 2007. What a testimony it will be to have individuals who have served the Church recognized in this manner. Our first Living Legacy Book of Life will be published in time for the 2008 General Conference featuring all individuals on the Wall of Life.
For additional information, www.ame-churchfinance.com
8. SCHOLARSHIP OPPORTUNITIES:
If you are a college student or getting ready to become one, you probably already know how useful additional money can be. Go to your Web browser and type in "minority scholarship opportunities" or "scholarship opportunities."
Editor's Note: I attempted to put in all of the Web addresses, but the message format did not work with The Christian Recorder Online post.
9. JOB OPENING: YOUNG ADULT ECUMENICAL FORMATION COORDINATOR US CONFERENCE FOR THE WORLD COUNCIL OF CHURCHES:
Young Adult Ecumenical Formation Coordinator (YAEFC)
Oversight:
The Young Adult Ecumenical Formation Coordinator (YAEFC) reports to the WCC's Program Executive for the United States, who also staffs the US Conference for the WCC. The Young Adult Task Force of the US Conference serves as a reference group to guide and support the YAEFC in setting goals and objectives for programs and partnerships, evaluating implementation, and in promoting the mandate of the US Conference for the WCC among the member churches in the United States.
All staff members of the US Conference ultimately report to the Board of the US Conference for the WCC.
Primary Responsibilities:
1. The YAEFC staffs the Young Adult Task Force (YATF) of the US Conference for the World Council of Churches working closely with the youth body and young adult program executive of the World Council of Churches (WCC), colleagues at the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the USA (NCCCUSA), Young Adult Ecumenical Forum (YAEF), World Student Christian Federation (WSCF), Council for Ecumenical Student Christian Ministries (CESCM), member churches and other ecumenical partners working with young adults to foster communication, creativity and coordination of ecumenical formation activities. The YAEFC serves as a liaison to these organizations on ecumenical formation as it relates to young adult leadership development on behalf of the US Conference for the WCC. The YAEFC works to connect young adults with member communions at the national and global levels, with special attention to relations with young adult ecumenical formation work of the Canadian Council of Churches.
2. Facilitates the planning and implementation of young adult gatherings on behalf of the US Conference for the WCC. Works to promote ongoing interaction and communication with young adults in the United States through a variety of means, including: visits to member church colleges, universities, and seminaries; representation at denominational gatherings and appropriate ecumenical events; and the creation and maintenance of a website, web-blogs, listservs, etc. Encourages intergenerational engagement, partnership, and learning throughout the ecumenical movement.
3. Inspires and tracks trends within the ecumenical movement and gives voice to the historical legacy of the WCC and the US Conference for the WCC. Collects and shares "best practices" and stories of young adults engaged in ecumenical leadership in the past and present. Serves as a resource for and liaison with member communions as they nurture the involvement of young adults within the ecumenical movement.
4. Assists the WCC's Decade to Overcome Violence and DOV Committee of the US Conference for the WCC in its goal to nurture the establishment of links with young adult ecumenical interfaith networks for justice and peace.
Secondary Responsibilities:
1. Liaisons with the Development Committee of the US Conference for the WCC to assist in the development of on-going foundation, church and individual donor support for young adult ecumenical formation leadership. Works to strengthen relationships with young adult ecumenical "alumni" and establishes and maintains a database of such "alumni/alumnae."
2. Works in collaboration with a technology consultant to strengthen the online presence of the US Conference for the WCC in ways that will reach young adults. Assists in the development of web-based resources to strengthen and link together the ecumenical formation work already being done by member communions and ecumenical bodies.
3. Assists in nurturing ongoing interaction with WCC scholars studying in the United States and in facilitating an annual gathering of these
WCC scholars working in close collaboration with the WCC Scholarships Programme.
Requirements:
Potential candidates for this position should have the following qualifications or be able to articulate alternate means of fulfilling these qualifications:
1. A young adult leader in good standing with a member communion of the U.S. Conference of World Council of Churches and a person of robust Christian faith.
2. Graduate theological education either completed or in progress (a Master of Divinity, Master of Theological Studies, Master of Arts in Religion); or significant ecclesial and ecumenical experience.
3. A strong sense of calling to ecumenical ministry, a working knowledge of the history, theology and practice of the ecumenical movement including familiarity with the institutional structures of the churches in the United States, and a demonstrated engagement in the ecumenical movement is preferred.
4. Strong leadership and group facilitation skills; a participatory approach to working with people and organizations; strong networking skills; a demonstrated ability to take appropriate initiative while working independently or as a member of a team; appreciation and respect for diversity; ability to work sensitively across cultures with respect, diplomacy and tact.
5. A strong commitment to peace and social justice ministry.
6. Ability to respond flexibly and with perseverance to priorities set by the US Conference for the WCC and the wider ecumenical movement.
7. Excellent written and oral communication skills; good computer skills including Word, Excel, Power-point, web-publishing and email.
Knowledge of a second language is desirable.
8. Limited domestic and/or international travel required, with appropriate notice.
Location:
This position is based in the WCC's US Office which also serves as the US Conference for the WCC's Office located at The Interchurch Center, 475 Riverside Drive, Suite 1370, New York, NY.
Salary & Benefits:
Special funding has been raised under the auspices of the US Conference to support this position at 20 hours per week through 31 December 2008. The YAEFC will be compensated at a rate of $17 per hour if enrollment in the US Conference health plan is requested, and at $21 per hour in the event that health coverage is not required.
Continuation of the position beyond 2008 is anticipated, but will be contingent upon available funding, favorable program evaluations and performance reviews.
Proposed Start Date:
October 1, 2007 or as negotiated
To Apply:
Candidates wishing to apply for the position of Young Adult Ecumenical
Formation Coordinator should submit the following documents to the
Chair of the YAEFC Search Committee:
- A cover letter and resume outlining vocational and educational history
- Names of three references and a letter of reference from denominational or judicatory leader demonstrating good standing.
- Responses to the following questions (limited to 1 page per question):
Questions:
1. Why are you interested in becoming the Young Adult Ecumenical Formation Coordinator? How would this position help fulfill your vocational goals?
2. How have you been involved in the ecumenical life of your denomination/church or in the wider ecumenical movement? Please
describe an experience of ecumenical formation in your life.
3. How have you demonstrated your skills as an ecumenical leader?
Please describe an experience when you demonstrated ecumenical leadership.
Applications should be sent to:
Chair of the YAEFC Search Committee
C/O Jim Stokes-Buckles
US Conference for the World Council of Churches
475 Riverside Drive, Rm. 1370
New York, NY 10115, USA
Fax: 212 870 2528
Email: JSB@wcc-coe.org (email attachment applications preferred)
Application Deadline:
July 16, 2007
Editor’s Note: This announcement submitted by Bishop E. Earl McCloud
10. EPISCOPAL FAMILY CONGRATULATORY NOTICES:
- 50TH WEDDING ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION: BISHOP AND MRS. ZEDEKIAH LAZETT GRADY
June 8, 2007 marked the 50th Wedding Anniversary for Bishop Zedekiah LaZett Grady (Retired) and Mother Carrie R. Grady. The Grady's met on the campus of Allen University in Columbia, South Carolina and were married on June 8, 1957.
Congratulatory cards, messages and well wishes may be sent to:
1 Wespanee DriveCharleston, SC 29407Phone (843) 766-9569
Email messages and well wishes may be sent to: Bishop and Mrs. Grady: W1MG2CL@aol.com
- 30TH WEDDING ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION: BISHOP GREGORY AND REV. DR. JESSICA INGRAM:
The Rt. Reverend Gregory G.M. Ingram, Presiding Bishop of the Tenth Episcopal District and Supervisor, the Rev. Dr. Jessica Kendall Ingram will celebrate their 30th wedding anniversary on June 11, 2007.
Congratulatory cards, messages and well wishes may be sent to:
4927 Holly Tree DriveDallas, TX 75287Phone: (214).647-1984
Email messages and well wishes may be sent to: Bishop Gregory G.M. Ingram: bishopgregory@amec-10thdist.org
The Rev. Dr. Jessica Kendall Ingram: Journeyministry@aol.com
11. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
Regretfully announcing the homegoing of Rev. O. J. Spruiells, a retired Tenth Episcopal District pastor. Rev. Spruiells went home to be with the LORD on Thursday afternoon, May 31, 2007.
Service Arrangements for Rev. O. J. Spruiells:
VIEWING:
Tuesday, June 5, 2007
11:00 A.M. - 5:00 P.M.
Rocky Springs Baptist Church
The Rev. C. Johnson-Pastor
313 Shady Grove Road
Grand Prairie, TX 75050
PH: (972) 790-0623
WAKE:
Tuesday, June 5, 2007 7:00 P.M.
Ben Washington Baptist Church
Dr. J. R. Shephard-Pastor
3901 Frisco AveIrving, Texas 75061
PH: (972) 790-8421
HOMEGOING CELEBRATION:
Wednesday, June 6, 2007
11:00 A.M. Ebenezer Missionary Baptist Church
The Rev. A. D. Smith-Pastor
8015 Blossom Lane
Dallas, Texas 75227
PH: (214) 388-1200
CONDOLENCES MAY BE SENT TO:
Sister Elnora Spruiells
514 Compton Avenue
Irving, Texas 75061
PH: (972) 790-8213
Rev. O. J. Spruiells final earthly care has been entrusted to the:
EMANUEL FUNERAL HOME
1721 W. Oak Street
Palestine, Texas 75801
PH: (903) 729-5430
Submitted by:Rev. Dr. Sherryl A. Matlock-PastorSt. James A.M.E. ChurchDenton, Texas
12. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
Mrs. Mary Sanders, the mother of Brad Sanders and the mother in law of the Rev. Joan Sanders passed on May 25, 2007. Rev. Joan Sanders is assistant pastor at Bryant Temple AME Church in Los Angeles, California.
Homegoing services for Mrs. Mary Sanders were held at New Exodus Baptist Church on Saturday, June 2, 2007 in Chicago, Illinois.
Condolences may be sent to Rev. Joan Sanders and Mr. Brad Sanders:
Bryant Temple AME Church 2525 W. Vernon Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90008
E-mail: onthephonewithti@yahoo.com
Cell: 323-731-5102 (Brad Sanders)
Submitted by: Rev. Dr. Clyde W. Oden, Jr. Senior Pastor Bryant Temple AME Church Los Angeles, CADrclydewodenjr@aol.com
13. 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
14. 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
