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. PUBLIC STATEMENT OF COUNCIL OF BISHOPS OF THE AFRICAN METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH, THURSDAY, JUNE 28, 2007, 10:00 A.M.:
The Council of Bishops, under the leadership of its newly invested President Wilfred Jacobus Messiah, met in its annual meeting here in Columbus, Ohio, at the Greater Columbus Convention Center. The Council addressed many issues that came before it and made the following decisions and observations of interest to the denomination and the nation.
• Having agreed that the African Methodist Episcopal Church should take leadership in the HIV/AIDS testing and education of its constituents, on Tuesday, June 26, 2007, the Bishops of the Church led the lines of persons volunteering to be tested on site for HIV/AIDS. The AME Church is the first major denomination where the highest level of leadership has led by example to address the stigma and ignorance surrounding HIV/AIDS. The testing for HIV/AIDS was available to all attendees at the General Board and Bishops’ Council meetings.
The A.M.E. Church is aware and fosters the position that HIV/AIDS is a preventable disease. African Americans make up less than 13% of the U.S. population, and account for nearly 50% of HIV/AIDS cases, yet African American females account for 67% of the new AIDS cases among women. African American men make up nearly 64% of HIV/AIDS cases among African Americans. African American teens (13-19) account for 73% of the new AIDS cases.
The African Methodist Episcopal Church is committed to breaking the silence and increasing the awareness of HIV/AIDS among friends, family and co-workers; to talk about HIV/AIDS in places where African Americans live, work, play, and worship; and to motivate people to seek early testing and treatment and encourage healthy behavior to prevent the spread of HIV. This disease is a community, national and global crisis that the A.M.E. Church and African American community must intentionally address.
Also engaged in this effort with the AME Church was the Ohio Commission on Minority Health, Payne Theological Seminary, African Methodist Episcopal Church Service and Development Agency (AME-SADA), the Commissions on Health and Social Action and the Departments of Global Witness and Ministry and Christian Education.
• The Council of Bishops provided an audience to several organizations. The following actions were taken:
a. The National Council on Educating Black Children (NCEBC)
There is an increasing illiteracy rate among black children and especially with regard to black males. The NCEBC is concerned that the church as one of the community stakeholders be involved in the investment in the social, cultural and intellectual development of children who historically are on the bottom of the educational realm- specifically, our black boys. The Council, in a spirit of solidarity of the goals of NCEBC facilitated an opportunity for the NCEBC representative, Ms. Diane Daniels, to address the Connectional Sons of Allen who were meeting in their first Quadrennial meeting, here in Columbus.
We are aware of the school dropout rates and the violent behavior traced to the inability of our children (primarily our black boys) to read. There is a direct correlation between our black boys’ inability to read and their violent and criminal behavior patterns. It has been documented that only 42% of our black males graduate from high school and that expectations for African American male students is low. It should be noted that the 42% is a national average and that in many of our schools the percentage is even less flattering. The attack on illiteracy is an appropriate place to address a variety of social ills associated with our youth. The Council of Bishops pledges its support to make deliberate efforts through the various components of the Church to help narrow the gap between the illiteracy among our primarily African American children who are unable to read and who are over-categorized as intellectually deficient. Other strategies are being considered to enhance this program in the church such as mentoring, tutorial programs and collaborating with churches which have programs addressing young black males.
b. The Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC)
The Council of Bishops received the SCLC’s President the Reverend Charles Steele who was accompanied by the Chairperson of the Board of SCLC and the Bishop E. Lynn Brown, of the Christian Methodist Episcopal Church (C.M.E.C.) who made an appeal for the support of the A.M.E. Church. In addition to the appeal, the organization presented plaques of honorary membership into SCLC to several Bishops of the Council.
In a similar move of support, the Bishops’ Council voted to promote the National fundraising effort of the NAACP. The Council regards the work of both the SCLC and the NAACP as relevant to the continued liberation struggle of disenfranchised and oppressed people.
• The responsibility of the Council of Bishops is to review the work and action of the General Board. The Council of Bishops concurred with the actions of the General Board on the following matters:
a. the change in the current deposit flow of funds for the retirement plan for Bishops and General Officers elected in 2000 and thereafter by the Treasurer
b. the Global Development Council’s request for the honoring of the covenant made in 2004 and its corollary understandings
c. the Social Action Commission’s request for the use of a new allocation formula in the disbursement of its administrative funds
d. the Restructuring Guidelines for the General Board
e. the Treasurer’s request for a change in the payment date by one week for wire transactions from the Episcopal District
• The Bishops’ Council went on record continuing to voice its opposition to the unjust war in Iraq and calling for the withdrawal of troops at the earliest possible date. People of the United States of America are still unclear as to how we got into this war with the Iraqi people in the fight against terrorism. The price has been high for a mistake we are reluctant to admit.
• The 48th Quadrennial Session of the General Conference will convene in St. Louis, Missouri, July 4-11, 2008. The Council of Bishops encourages the Connectional Church to begin utilizing the online registration process September 1, 2007. The Council also encourages Observer Registrations as was offered during the General Conference in 2004.
The Council of Public Statement Council of Bishops
June 28, 2007, Columbus, Ohio
Bishops asks the compliance of the church with the requests that everyone attending the General Conference register.
• The Council of Bishops Quadrennial Theme Committee has released the 2007-2008 ANVIL entitled “Managing Well”. This is the third year that the Anvil has been written by members of the Council of Bishops for the Christian community. It is well researched and a great resource for Christian congregations and congregants. The Anvil contains sermons, reflections, Bible Studies, Devotions and Worship resources which can be used throughout the church year. Also included in this edition is the scholarly work on healthcare for managing well the HIV/AIDS crisis by Payne Theological Seminary professors.
• The Council of Bishops applauds Bishop Preston Williams, Sr., Chairman of the Board, the Reverend Dr. Charles Young, President of Allen University, and the administration, faculty and students of Allen University on the reaffirmation of accreditation by the Southern Association of Colleges and School for the next ten (10) years.
• The Council of Bishops went on record noting the outstanding leadership of its new President, The Right Reverend Wilfred Jacobus Messiah, Presiding Prelate of the 20th Episcopal District, Southern Central Africa. For the first time in the history of the African Methodist Episcopal Church, the Executive Committee of the Council of Bishops is represented with two African Bishops in the office of President, Bishop Wilfred J. Messiah and Secretary, Bishop Paul Jones Mulenga Kawimbe, Presiding Prelate of the 17th Episcopal District, Southern Central Africa. Truly, this is a milestone in the reality that our church is global; our church is one. This is a clear indicator that African Methodism is committed to inclusion of all of its constituents and that we involve the resources, gifts and talents of leadership from all of the people who comprise membership in the A.M.E. Church.
The Council of Bishops asks the prayers of the Church for the blessings of God upon our collective ministry and for peace and justice around the world.
Submitted by:
The Public Statement Committee of
The Council of Bishops
Bishop A. J. Richardson
Bishop C. Garnett Henning, Sr.
Bishop Wilfred J. Messiah
Bishop Sarah F. Davis
2. IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT THE GENERAL BOARD:
Prior to the Roll Call on Monday, The General Board Caucus met on Sunday evening. Sister Valerie Bell said, “It is important that all AMEs understand that the General Board Caucus has been revitalized and restructured. The gathering of the Caucus takes place on Sunday night, prior to the official opening of the General Board meeting, on Monday morning.”
The Caucus provides a forum to inform and discuss vital issue that will come before the Board.
Previously, a single person, most recently Presiding Elder Richard Allen Washington, served as the chair. At the 2007 General Board Meeting, a different model, with shared leadership (pastor/presiding elder/lay/ and youth), was adopted.
The following persons serve in leadership positions: The Rev. Silvester Beaman, (1st Episcopal District), pastor; the Rev. W. C. Ervin, (10th Episcopal District), Presiding Elder; Mrs. Valerie Gary Bell (2nd Episcopal District), Lay; and Mr. John Thomas III, (13th Episcopal District), Youth.
3. THE EDITORIAL FOR THE NEXT EDITION OF THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER:
The Next editorial for The Christian Recorder: “Sometimes We are too Busy in Ministry and Sometimes We are not Busy Enough.”
4. AME CHURCH AND THE HIV/AIDS STRUGGLE:
Rev. Granville W. Reed III
Jacksonville, FL. What a joy when I heard that on the Center for Disease Control’s National HIV Testing Day, June 27th, that Bishops and connectional leaders of the AME Church were going to take an HIV Test as we continue to battle HIV/AIDS in America. I could not be in Columbus, Ohio, but I did take an HIV/AIDS Test in Jacksonville on that day.
HIV/AIDS is a disease that is ravaging black communities in America, Africa and many countries around the world. No age group is immune from this disease. The highest incidents of infection in the United States are found in those Zip Codes where we live. While the percentage of infected children may have decreased, we find the incident of infection among those over 55 has increased. No one is free from the possibility of infection.
I have been involved in combating HIV/AIDS here in Florida for 25 years. I have provided pastoral care for persons infected and persons who have died from the infection. I have provided care for families of infected persons. They are all God’s Children. My church, Mt. Olive AME Church has hosted a World Aids Day Memorial Service.
Under the supervision of Dr. Joan Cousins, Episcopal Supervisor in Florida (1984-1992) some churches across Florida began to serve persons infected by this disease; the battle continues. My test results were negative as I expected. I wonder how many of our Bishops and Connectional Leaders were tested.
Rev. Granville W. Reed, III is the pastor of Mt. Olive AME Church in Jacksonville, Florida
5. A 13th EPISCOPAL DISTRICT “SHINING LIGHT” GOES HOME TO BE WITH THE LORD:
On Thursday, July 5, 2007, Nashville will say goodbye to a shining light among its community. Carrie Fleming Jernigan, 64, died Friday, June 29, 2007 at a local hospital, after a brief illness.
Jernigan was born in Carroll County, Mississippi and moved to Nashville to attend Tennessee A & I. After earning a degree in Business Administration, Jernigan joined the patient administration support team at St. Thomas Hospital. She retired after serving 30 years at the medical institution.
In addition to her contribution in her field, Jernigan has a long history of activity in the church. A member of Lee Chapel African Methodist Episcopal Church for more than 40 years, Jernigan faithfully served in numerous spiritual and temporal leadership positions advising choirs, mission work, Christian education, church administration, and recreation endeavors. She participated in the bowling, basketball, and softball leagues of the church and was an avid cook for all occasions. According to Edward Lee Thompson, pastor of the historic church, “Mrs. Jernigan was a faithful Christian and member who willingly gave of her time, talent, and treasure. Her valuable contributions, presence, and friendship will surely be missed and remembered as a legacy to continue.”
In 2004, Jernigan was elected president of the Tennessee Conference Women’s Missionary Society. In the position, she led the missionary efforts of more than 60 churches in the Middle Tennessee community. “Carrie was dedicated to assuring the work of missions and African Methodism spread both here and abroad,” according to Stan McKenzie, Supervisor of Missions for the 13th Episcopal District, comprising Tennessee and Kentucky. “She was tireless in her efforts and a champion for the cause of helping those in need,” he said.
Jernigan is survived by her husband of 39 years, John Jernigan; sons, John (Sandra) and Marvin (Afrika); two grandchildren; and other family and friends. Family will greet friends on Thursday, July 5, 2007 at 6:00 pm at Lee Chapel AME Church, 1732 Scovel Street. The funeral will follow at 7:00 pm. Her interment is Friday, July 6, 2007 at 11:00 am at Greenwood North Cemetery.
For further information, contact Lewis & Wright Funeral Directors, Lisa Hammonds, at 615/255-2371 or 957-7781.
6. CELEBRATING FABULOUS FAMILY MONTHS OF SUMMER… WITH FAMILIES OF THE 11TH DISTRICT, EDWARD WATERS COLLEGE, AND SAINT PAUL A.M.E. CHURCH, JACKSONVILLE, FLORIDA:
Saint Paul A.M.E. Church in Jacksonville, FL, where The Reverend Dr. Marvin C. Zanders, II is the Pastor, has chosen the months of May through July to celebrate families. We have our natural families – the ones we are born into, and then we have our church families. The A.M.E. Church’s combined family is the General Conference which consists of large families all over the world (Episcopal Districts), with large families in strategic areas (Conferences), and within those families are the Local Districts consisting of Local Churches, A.M.E.C. Organizations, Commissions, and Entities. Parts of the A.M.E.C. Family structure often forgotten or not thought about, are our Institutions of Higher Learning. Our first family weekend in May began at Edward Waters College on Saturday morning in Milne Auditorium, where Pastor Zanders delivered the Baccalaureate address to the graduating seniors of 2007.
The message was powerful and contained “The Secret” – with the direction and promise of Proverbs 3:5-6, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not unto your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him and He will make your path straight.” (One Biblical interpretation reads: “direct your path”) In addition to 140 graduates, the EWC Family included the faculty, President Dr. Oswald P. Bronson, Sr., Mrs. Bronson, and our new President of Edward Waters College, Dr. Claudette Williams and her husband, Mr. Valton Williams. The 11th District’s Family was led by our Bishop, The Right Reverend McKinley Young and Supervisor, Dr. Dorothy Jackson Young, included several clergy, some of their church family and also as part of that family, many members of the St. Paul A.M.E. Church Family were present to share the message delivered by their Pastor.
After a powerful Baccalaureate, many families connected as we entered the Commencement Ceremony held in the John Hurst Adams and Jimmy R. Jenkins Sports and Music Center. All friends and family members waited anxiously with cameras and banners to see their loved one march in and ascend the stage to receive their degrees. Dr. Oswald P. Bronson, Sr., the EWC President, conferred the Honorary Degrees. The Reverend Dr. Marvin C. Zanders, II, was among those who received the Doctor of Divinity Degree. All of the families connected with joy, applause and admiration as EWC honored an anointed man of God who gives so much of himself to the spiritual and educational communities.
The following day, we shared a powerful Communion Sunday with the Reverend Dr. Marvin C. Zanders, II delivering the first family message during the 7:30 a.m. worship service. We were blessed by the presence of the Right Reverend McKinley Young, our presiding prelate, and Dr. Dorothy Jackson Young, our Episcopal District Supervisor at the 10:55 a.m. worship service. Bishop Young delivered a powerful message entitled, “Great Expectations” and was the chief celebrant for Holy Communion. Dr. Claudette Williams, President of Edward Waters College, and her husband, Mr. Valton Williams attended the worship service.
As an additional highlight to begin our family months, we were blessed by a visit from our Pastor’s extended family from Morehouse College. On Tuesday night, May 15th, at 7 p.m., The Morehouse College Glee Club filled our Sanctuary with beautiful, harmonious music. The individual duos, trios, and quartets added a humorous flair to their concert of excellence. Each song was personally arranged by the director or a member of the Glee Club and we were blessed by each rendition. We look forward to The Morehouse Glee Club’s return next year as they tour the world with their musical genius.
As the summer continues, Pastor and Lady Zanders and The Saint Paul A.M.E. Church Family continue to focus on the family structure with a new Worship schedule. Church School convenes from 8 a.m. until 9 a.m., Worship and Praise begins at 9:15 a.m., Worship Service at 9:30 a.m. Wednesday in the Word Bible Study continues at Noon and 6:30 p.m. We thank God for the structure of family and our connections throughout the A.M.E. Church. We pray you will join our family… There’s a place for you at St. Paul A.M.E. Church, Jacksonville, Florida.
7. THE ELEVENTH EPISCOPAL DISTRICT YOUNG PEOPLE’S AND CHILDREN’S DIVISION WOMEN’S MISSIONARY SOCIETY 20TH ANNUAL BLACK HERITAGE WEEKEND:
*Loretta S. Coppock
On February 16-18, 2007, The Electrifying Eleventh Episcopal District Young People’s And Children’s Division of the Women’s Missionary Society held its 20th Annual Black Heritage Weekend (BHW). For the second year, the exciting events of this historic weekend were held on the campus of our own Edward Waters College and James Weldon Johnson Preparatory Middle School.
Under the dynamic, visionary leadership of Bishop McKinley and Dr. Dorothy Jackson Young and their leadership team of Mrs. Melvin Morgan, Episcopal WMS President, Dr. Courtney Lamar, Episcopal YPD Director, Ms. Shayla Hogan, YPD President, the weekend was most rewarding and tremendously successful. We were most grateful for the attendance of our very special and beloved guests, The Right Reverend and Mrs. Frank Curtis Cummings, and Connectional WMS President, Mrs. Jamesina Evans. Mrs. Eleanor Dixon, former Episcopal YPD Director and Ms. Sanjena Clay also graced us with their presence.
The Black Heritage Weekend is a weekend designed to promote high self esteem, academic achievement and spiritual growth, while focusing on African American and Bahamian heritage. The event was initiated in 1988 with 600 young people participating, under the leadership of Ms. Sanjena Clay, Episcopal YPD Director and Mrs. Margaret Ward, Episcopal WMS President, both of whom were given special recognition during the 20th Black Heritage Weekend. Since that time the number of participants has increased to over 2000. Traditionally, this weekend is held during the month of February, a time when we celebrate Black History Month in America. Young people, ages two to twenty-six shared their talents in poetry, monologue, oratorical presentations, visual arts, vocal and instrumental performances, liturgical dance, essay writing, spelling bee, drill team performances and athletics. Competitive events are divided into age categories, with first, second and third place winners selected from each event and age category. It is with great pride that we record for this historic year: 1,720 competitors; 72 first-place winners; 61 second place winners; and 54 third-place winners. Congratulations to our young people and children. Black Heritage participants included: 1,720 competitors; 826 chaperons; 166 observers; and 24 on-site observers for a total of 2,736. One hundred eighty-three (183) churches participated, with the largest registration from the Florida Conference.
The John Hurst Adams/Jimmy R. Jenkins Community Sports and Music Center was the setting for the Opening Worship Service. Ms. Sanjena Clay was honored as the founder of the Black Heritage Weekend. Recognition was given to former Episcopal Leaders, WMS Presidents, YPD Directors and YPD Presidents. Outstanding YPD Directors and YPDers from each of our six (6) annual conferences were recognized. A warm and gracious welcome was extended to Bishop Frank and Mrs. Martha Cummings, former Bishop and Supervisor of the 11th Episcopal District. The world renowned Edward Waters College Concert Choir provided music during worship and throughout the weekend.
On Saturday, following devotion and the introduction of special guests, the competitions began! The myriad of well-planned, well-organized heritage events began. Youth and children displayed skill and accuracy in brain bowl, athletic events, and cheerleading. Liturgical dances were performed with grace and precision. Beautiful renditions of vocal solos, ensembles, instrumental selections, orations, poetry and monologues were presented.
The weekend culminated with the Sunday Morning, “Service of Seliya.” The workshop speaker was introduced by Mrs. Cynthia Mingo, of the Alachua-Central District. Reverend Anne Marie Mingo, (Alachua-Central District), District YPD President, 1991-1995 and PHD Candidate, at Emory University, delivered a dynamic, inspirational message from the theme: “Black Heritage Weekend: 20 Years in the Making.” Following the message, seventy-four (74) young people came forth to give their lives to Christ.
As the weekend came to a close, conversations and comments echoed the tremendous success of the activities, and an appreciation for the opportunity to attend this 20th year celebration. Participants are prepared to share this experience with their local churches and YPD organizations.
We express gratitude to God for guiding us in this wonderful ministry for twenty (20) years. We are proud of our young people for giving of themselves and extend sincere thanks and continued prayers for all who helped to make the weekend, one to be proud of.
*Loretta S. Coppock is a member of the 11th Episcopal District Writing Team
8. NEWS AROUND THE AME CHURCH:
- Queens, NY 2007- On Saturday July 14th Greater Allen AME Cathedral of New York will host a free Workshop to educate the community regarding avoiding foreclosure, as well as choosing the proper mortgage.
- Mount Sinai AME Church was destroyed by fire sometime during the early Thursday morning hours of June 28, 2007. Three churches in the area also suffered damage.
- Residents of Warwick, NY, are working to preserve the 1906 Union AME Church building. A bigger church will be built on the site.
- On Friday / Saturday July 20-21, Fisk Chapel AME in Fair Haven, New Jersey will host a track-meet for athletes for ages 6 and under thru Masters. The meet will be held at Count Basie Track in Red Bank. Information can be found at www.fiskchapelame.org . (Coach Harris (732) 747-1752)
9. STEARNE CHAPEL AFRICAN METHODIST EPISCOPAL (A.M.E.) CHURCH - 131 YEARS SERVING THE COMMUNITY:
Stearne Chapel began in 1876 in an area that is now the HWY 2818 Industrial Park in a two story building that served as the Lodge Hall upstairs and the Worship Area downstairs. After 16 years the building was remolded into a one story building that was totally for worship services. This project was completed in 1892 with the Rev. A. Burton as the pastor, Brother William Banks was the church secretary and Brothers H.L. Littleton, W. L. Stearne, and J. R. Robinson were the trustees. The church remained at that location for 38 years.
In 1930, the Rev. Isaac Charles Oliphant was the pastor, the church moved to the current location at 2611 W. 28th Street. Brothers John Knox, Sr., John Cunningham, and Will Hall were the trustees.
In 1955 under the leadership of the Rev. A. Latson, the church was remodeled with Brothers Will Hall, Elijah Bass, and the Rev. Henry Banks as the trustees.
Stearne Chapel was part of a circuit with Quinn Chapel AME in Benchley; Thessalonia AME Church, located near the Brazos River; Silver Hill AME which was 5 miles west of the current church; and St. James AME in Booneville. Sometime 1955 and 196, the circuit was disbanded and the churches either ceased to exist or merged with Stearne Chapel AME. Mr. and Mrs. Dennis Wilson and the Mrs. Corine Chambers were the last members from St. James Booneville to unite with Stearne Chapel. Currently our most senior members are Mrs. Naomi Griffin and Mrs. Almeda Hickman.
In 1994 the current structure was completed with the Rev. Bobbie Sonier as the pastor.
For 131 years, Stearne Chapel AME Church has served as a Lodge Hall, a place of education, a shelter, fed the hungry, clothed those in need, and provided financial assistance. The church has been a place for worship and nurture and it helped to trained many of the current African American leaders in Bryan.
The current pastor, the Rev. Dr. Maggie Crawford was the first female pastor to be assigned to Stearne Chapel. She was appointed on November 18, 2005. Pastor Crawford continues to remind the citizens of Bryan that Stearne Chapel is not only a place of Worship but also a place of community support, assistance, and training. She extends an invitation and welcome to the entire Bryan community.
Stearne Chapel AME Church is again in a remodeling program and the current trustees are Sister Mollie Campbell, Sister Patricia Carter Thomas, Brother Kelvin Oliver, Sister LaQuisha Jackson, and Brother Albert Elarms.
Pastor Crawford's favorite saying is, "Stop jumping to the wrong conclusions; Stop, Look, and Listen to the Holy Spirit!"
Stearne Chapel AME Church conducts Sunday Bible Study at 9:30 a.m. and Sister Mollie Campbell is the Church School Superintendent. Worship Services are held each Sunday at 11 a.m.
Submitted by the Rev. Maggie J. Crawford, Ph.D
Stearne Chapel A.M.E. Church
2611 W. 28th Street - Bryan, TX 77803
Church 979-822-5549 - Church Cell 979-422-5476
10. 2007 FOURTH EPISCOPAL DISTRICT ANNUAL CONFERENCE SERIES SCHEDULE:
The Right Reverend Philip R. Cousin, Presiding Prelate
August 7-12, 2007
CANADIAN ANNUAL CONFERENCE
Host: Grant - Toronto
Crowne Plaza Toronto Don Valley
1250 Eglinton Avenue East
Toronto, Ontario M3C 1J3
416-385-6770 ~ 877-474-6835
Reservation Deadline: July 15th
Room Rate: $125 (single); $135 (double);
$145 (triple); $155 (quad)
Parking: Complimentary
August 20-26, 2007
MICHIGAN ANNUAL CONFERENCE
Host: Bethel - Detroit
Hyatt Regency Dearborn
600 Town Center Drive
Dearborn, MI 48126
313-593-1234 ~ 888-591-1234
Reservation Deadline: August 10th
Room Rate: $109 (single/double/triple/quad)
$149 (Regency Club)
Parking: Complimentary
September 9-16, 2007
ILLINOIS ANNUAL CONFERENCE
Host: St. Peter - Decatur
Decatur Conference Center & Hotel
(formerly Holiday Inn Select)
4191 US Highway 36 West
Decatur, IL 62522
217-422-8800
Reservation Deadline: August 8th
Room Rate: $97
Parking: Complimentary
September 24-30, 2007
INDIANA ANNUAL CONFERENCE
Host: Central Indiana Ministerial Alliance
Indianapolis Marriott East
7202 East 21st Street
Indianapolis, IN 46219
317-352-1231 ~ 800-228-9290
Reservation Deadline: August 27th
Room Rate: $99 (single/double)
Parking: Complimentary
October 15-21, 2007
CHICAGO ANNUAL CONFERENCE
Host: St. James - Chicago
Crowne Plaza Chicago/O'Hare
5440 North River Road
Rosemont, IL 60018
847-671-6350 ~ 888-642-7344
Reservation Deadline: September 15th
Room Rate: $115 (single/double/triple/quad)
Parking: $10 per day
October 24-27, 2007
PLANNING MEETING &
65TH ANNUAL DISTRICT LAY CONVENTION
Crowne Plaza Chicago/O'Hare
5440 North River Road
Rosemont, IL 60018
847-671-6350 ~ 888-642-7344
Reservation Deadline: October 10th
Room Rate: $99 (single/double/triple/quad)
Parking: $5 per day
** Please note: All Annual Conferences open on Wednesday, with the exception of Canada, which opens on Thursday. **
11. STAY AWAKE:
*S. Renee Smith
Have you ever gotten so sleepy while driving that it scared you? Yet you continued on toward your destination, your eyes glazed over, your mind on autopilot? Until maybe you glanced down at the odometer—or out the car window at unfamiliar surroundings—and finally snapped out of it, shouting, “I should stop!”
There have been times in my own life when I found myself in this situation. My instincts would tell me stop, rethink my direction, or GET OUT NOW! But I didn’t always listen. Sometimes, in fact, I pushed harder on the accelerator, so hypnotized by my own desire to get what I wanted. In hindsight, of course, I realize that I put a lot at risk.
Now, more mature, it’s easy to recognize the moments in my life when I was sleepwalking. Oh, I walked like I was awake. And I talked like I was awake. But my decisions clearly indicate that I was sound asleep. Unfortunately, I’m not alone. Over the past year, I have been introduced to staggering statistics that lead me to believe that many people are living their lives—and making choices—while seemingly sleeping.
How else can we explain that more than 36 million people around the world have AIDS? That one and a half million children in America have at least one parent who has been incarcerated? That more than three million American teenagers are alcoholics? That nearly 50 percent of all American marriages end in divorce? And, sadly, that nearly ten million US households are headed by a woman or a man without a spouse living in the home?
I know many people who fit into these statistics—some of them within my own family. I think it’s because they fell asleep. If anything, these numbers should warn us to stay awake. Here are some ways that might help:
Examine your beliefs. What you think you believe isn’t necessarily what you do believe. It sounds strange, but it’s true. Sometimes we only think we believe something—because that’s what we’ve been taught. That’s why it’s so important to examine your own beliefs about life, education, family, career, religion, even politics. Inherited beliefs won’t become your beliefs unless you take ownership of them. For example, you may have been taught that having sex before marriage is wrong. But your actions say that you believe that having children before marriage is wrong. Once you’ve figured this out, you can come up with solutions that connect your belief with your action. You might choose abstinence, you might choose a condom.
Don’t let yourself get away. For many reasons we let ourselves go. I’m not talking just about physically doing so. I’m referring to our basic human natures. Say, for example, you meet someone you really like. Suddenly, how they view you might become way more important than how you view yourself. HUGE MISTAKE! Why? Because you’ll likely start living outside of the beliefs that you took so much time to figure out! Instead, hold fast to staying connected with yourself. Don’t fall asleep at the wheel!
Find your way back home. But even when we do make detours that take us away from ourselves, we can find our way back home. By “home” I mean being in that place where you’re comfortable with yourself. It’s hard work, but it’s worth it, because there’s no place like home. I can guarantee you one thing: Investing time in your personal, professional and spiritual development is the best investment you will ever make in—and for—yourself.
S. Renee Smith
Image Consultant, Motivational Speaker, Columnist, & Author
P.O. Box 177
Dover, DE 19903
(302)736-5131
www.srenee.com
12. THE PASTOR’S CORNER WHAT WE BELIEVE – God’s Plan of Salvation Part 1b
For you created my innermost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well. My frame was not hidden from you when I was made in the secret place. When I was woven together in the depths of the earth, you eyes saw my unformed body. All the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be. (Psalm 139: 13-16)
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.”
God’s Plan of Salvation
Let’s continue to receive and write on our hearts the first element of God’ Plan of Salvation: God loves you and has a wonderful plan for your life.
God Has a Wonderful Plan for Our Lives
Psalm 139: 13-16 conveys God’s foreknowledge and plan for every human life. God created each of us (v.13) and we are the wonderful masterpieces of God’s hand that demonstrate God’s sovereignty over creation (v. 14). The concept described in verse 13 and 14 is that of a masterpiece. It is told that in the days of the artistic renaissance in Europe a person desiring to be recognized as a master artist in his field would present a work that reflected his best performance. If this offering was accepted by the recognized masters of his guild the artist was the designated a master in his field. We are created to glorify God and reflect His sovereignty over creation. We are His work that above all other parts of His creation, prove He is the Master of all creation. You are God’s “masterpiece!”
As God created each of us, God saw who we were before birth (v. 15). We are precious in God’s sight and God gives no regard to origin of birth, background, family, etc. In fact, the more difficult your circumstance the greater glory you give to God as you live out His plan. A talented preacher once explained that he observed a building being built with pilings that ran over one hundred feet deep into the ground. When he inquired of an engineer why the steel pilings ran so deep he was told, “The deeper the pilings the higher the building that will rise from them.” You may have been born into deeply difficult circumstances, but God is trying to get you to see that the deeper your difficulties the higher He plans for you to rise to glorify Him. God has a wonderful plan for your life.
God laid out a plan for every life before it ever came into being. Verse 16 tells us that “All the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be.” The simple act of describing one’s day before we start is what we recognize as planning our day. Laying out what we desire to accomplish increases our chances of getting those things done by protecting us from randomly wandering through the day. Remaining connected to the plan guides us toward success in our activities. Jeremiah 29:11 says, “For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” God has a wonderful plan for your life. By staying connected to the source of that plan, Almighty God, we’re protected from randomly wandering through life. God’s desire is to guide us toward the abundant life Christ came that we might have.
It is the will of God that every person would live life to the fullest – to overflowing – abundantly. So why it is so many people aren’t experiencing life abundantly? Romans 3:23 states “We’ve all sinned and fallen short of the glory of God.” Man is sinful and separated from God. Therefore he cannot know and experience God’s love and plan for his life. “The wages of sin is death.” Sin results in death and death produces separation (Romans 6: 23). “But the gift of God is eternal life through Christ Jesus.” God did not leave us separated from Himself and His plan for our lives. In our next installment, we will discuss what God has done to address the sin that separates us from God and His loving plan for our lives. This is the next element in God’s plan of salvation.
*The Rev. James M. Moody is the pastor of Quinn Chapel AME Church, Chicago
Copyrights © 2007 by the Rev. James M. Moody. All rights reserved. No part of this article may be copied or reproduced without the written permission of the author. To contact the writer go to
quinnamechicago@sbcglobal.net
13. EPISCOPAL AND CLERGY FAMILY CONGRATULATORY NOTICES:
Bishop Vinton Randolph Anderson Celebrates 80th Birthday on July 11, 2007
Pre-80th birthday celebration event for Bishop Vinton Randolph Anderson - an invitation
A Celebration for Bishop Anderson was held on Friday, July 6, 2007 at Wayman African Methodist Episcopal Church in St. Louis.
Bishop Anderson’s email address: VAnder2201@aol.com
- Presiding Elder and Mrs. Ralph Johnson of the Lexington District of the Kentucky Conference, 13th Episcopal District joyfully announces the graduation of their daughter, Ms. Kanisha Lynn Johnson. She will be receiving a Masters of Business Administration with a concentration in Human Resources Management from the University of Phoenix on July 14, 2007.
Congratulatory wishes may be sent to: ameomega@bellsouth.net
- Mr. Sterling Allan Brown and Miss April Necole Walter will wed on Saturday July 14, 2007 at Emmanuel A.M.E. Church, Los Angeles, California, Rev. Carolyn Habersham, pastor.
Sterling is the son of the Rev. Carolyn Habersham and the Grandson of the Rev. Ezekiel and Beverly Habersham, Rev. Habersham is retired presiding elder of the California Conference.
Congratulations can be sent to sterlingbrown@tmail.com
- The Rev. Charlene N. Boone, pastor of New Tyler AME Church Memphis, Tennessee and Mr. Reginald Hinson were married on June 30th, 2007 at New Tyler AME Church in Memphis, TN. The Right Reverend Vashti M. McKenzie officiated and assisted by the Rev. Dr. James Wade.
Congratulatory wishes may be sent to: CBoone7145@aol.com
or reginaldhinson@yahoo.com
14. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
We are saddened to announce the passing of the Rev. Josiah Nartey Opata who was born May 22, 1947 in Accra, Ghana. He received a BS degree in Industrial Technology in 1982 from North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University, Greensboro, North Carolina, and a Master of Divinity from Southern Methodist University in Dallas, Texas. In 1989 the Third District ordained him an Itinerate Deacon in the Ohio Conference and in 1990 he was ordained an Itinerate Elder.
Rev. Opata served as chaplain for the Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction at the Madison County Correctional Institute and the Franklin County Pre-Release Center. He held membership at St. Paul A.M.E. Church in Columbus, Ohio where the Rev. Dr. Michael R. Bean, Sr. serves as pastor.
The funeral service was held on Friday, July 7. Please visit www.schoedinger.com to sign Josiah's online guest book.
Submitted by:
Mrs. Cara Caldwell
3rd Episcopal District
secretary110@thirddistrictame.org
15. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
Ms. Shirley Mae Battle passed away on Wednesday, July 4th at the McDuffie Regional Medical Center in Thomson, Georgia. She was the daughter of Mr. George Reynolds and the Rev. Rose B. Reynolds, pastor of The New Hope AME Church in Mesena, Georgia.
Ms. Battle was a member of the Trinity AME Church in Warrenton where the Rev. Christopher Andrews serves as pastor. She was the mother of one son, Mr. Blake Battle.
Funeral arrangements for Ms. Shirley Mae Battle:
Tuesday, July 10, 2007
Viewing: 12:00 Noon
Funeral: 1:00 PM
Trinity A.M.E. Church
501 Norwood Street
Warrenton, GA
Service arrangements are entrusted to:
Dawson Mortuary, Inc.
98 Hopgood Street
Warrenton, GA 30828-7959
Phone: (706) 465-2634
Condolences may be sent to:
Rev. Rose B. and Mr. George Reynolds
664 Railroad Street
Warrenton, GA 30828
Email condolences to Rev. Rose B. Reynolds:
Reyn1127@bellsouth.net
or Mr. Blake Battle
85 Pine Avenue
Warrenton, GA 30828
Phone: 706-465-9093
Submitted by:
Ella M. Smiley, Presiding Elder
African Methodist Episcopal Church (6th Episcopal Dist.)
Augusta Annual Conference
Augusta - Athens PE District
16. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
It is with deepest regret that we announce the passing the Mr. Richard A Myers, Sr., the eldest brother of the Rev. Samuel Myers, Presiding Elder of the Beaufort District, South Carolina Conference, 7th Episcopal District.
ARRANGEMENTS
The Homegoing Service for Mr. Myers:
Viewing: 10:00 a.m.
Funeral Service: 11:00 a.m.
Wednesday, July 11, 2007
Ward Memorial AME Church
241 42nd St. NE
Washington, DC 20019
(202) 398-3899
(202) 398-4239 Fax
Rev. Conrad Pridgen, Pastor
Services entrusted to:
Stewart's Funeral Home
4001 Benny Road, NE
Washington, DC 20019
(202) 399-3600
(202) 398-4246 Fax
Expressions of sympathy may be sent c/o the church address listed.
Submitted by:
Carmen F. Thomas
Executive Administrator to the Bishop
7th Episcopal District
17. 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
18. CONDOLENCES TO THE BEREAVED FROM THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER:
The Chair of the Commission on Publications, the Right Reverend Gregory G. M. Ingram; the Publisher, the Reverend Dr. Johnny Barbour and the Editor of The Christian Recorder, the Reverend Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III offer our condolences and prayers to those who have lost loved ones. We pray that the peace of Christ will be with you during this time of your bereavement.
Archive of The Christian Recorder Online from 2004-2016; Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III, 20th Editor of The Christian Recorder
