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 – THE “SINS” OF THE LACK OF AUTHENTIC ACADEMIC AND THEOLOGICAL CREDENTIALS AND THE FASCINATION WITH THE TERM, “DOCTOR”:
Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III
When I listed the “Twelve Sins of a Pastor” in the previous issue of The Christian Recorder, two more “sins” came to mind. The “sins” of the lack of authentic academic and theological credentials and the fascination with the term, “doctor.”
One of the big sins:
A pastor who will not sacrifice and trust the power of God to attend an accredited college or seminary, but rather, will find an unaccredited or bogus institutions and list those credentials as if they were legitimate; they are not legitimate. At least they are not legitimate in the African Methodist Episcopal Church. There are vast opportunities for a person to attend and graduate from accredited residential or accredited online institutions of higher education.
The 2004 Doctrine and Discipline of the African Methodist Episcopal Church is clear about the credentials needed from candidates who desire ordination as itinerant elders in the AME Church. Part IV, Section II E in The Discipline states that “A Candidate for ordination as itinerant elder must be a graduate of a Seminary accredited by the Association of Theological Schools (ATS) or similar Accrediting agencies.” “Similar accrediting agencies” are those found outside of the U.S.A. and Canada, i.e., Africa, South America, Europe, Asia; ATS only accredits theological institutions in the U.S.A. and Canada.
Not all unaccredited institutions are bogus institutions, but all bogus institutions are unaccredited. If a person wishes to be a pastor in the AME Church, he or she should be willing to follow the rules for academic and theological credentialing as listed in The AME Discipline.
There are all kinds of unaccredited institutions and degree mills on the internet and in cities across America; in churches and other structures. Some have been created as “cash cows,” and they do make money.
One unaccredited institution, Suffield University, promises that a “student” can earn a degree based on his or her life and work experience for under $495. Suffield University also offers a doctoral degree for $900, although a person has to send in his or her "life experience" to be evaluated, before they send the certificate. Sheffield promises that it enables students to earn degrees with no classes to attend. That’s enticing for persons wanting a credentialing shortcut, and who is not interested in academic and theological learning. I even heard that a 14-year-old earned a M.Div. Degree from one of the unaccredited theological seminaries and is getting ready to work on his D.Min and he has not even finished high school.
At unaccredited Rochville University, doctoral degrees are available for $599 and delivered within 15 days. Another unaccredited institution, Covington Theological Seminary, which lists its address at 1168 Cross Street in Crossville, Georgia; offers all kinds of degrees at every level.
Though some unaccredited institutions have been established for profit, others have been established with good intentions to train religious workers and they are to be commended for their efforts, but their credentials are not valid in the AME Church.
Members of the Boards of Examiners should carefully evaluate the academic and theological credentials of all applicants for ministry and the members of the Boards of Examiners, themselves, should possess valid academic and theological credentials.
One can find out which theological institutions are accredited by ATS by going to http://www.ats.edu/images/logo.gif.
Simply go to:
http://www.worldwidelearn.com/accreditation/accreditation-associations.htm to find out which colleges and universities are accredited by their respective regional accrediting agencies.
Go to http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Name_It_and_Frame_It%3F to find a list of degree mills.
The AME Church requires our ministers obtain theological degrees from a recognized accreditation agency, i.e., ATS, because the Church believes ATS validates the quality of a minister's training.
The Other Big “Sin”
The attraction with degree mills and with unaccredited institutions by members of the clergy is precipitated by the other big sin, the fascination with the title, “doctor,” and to what lengths some ministers will go, to be called, “doctor.”
The title, “Reverend” or “pastor” is not good enough and the title, “bishop” has been elevated to extraterrestrial proportions to such an extent that all across the world and across denominations, almost everyone would like to be called, “bishop,” but, if one cannot be called “bishop,” being called, “doctor,” is the next best thing. And there are some in ministry who will go to great lengths to afford themselves of the opportunity to be called, “doctor” and degree mills become an attraction and a convenience. And, there are those in ministry, and it’s not just an AME problem, it cuts across denominational and racial lines, who succumb to the temptation of taking a shortcut to achieve some degree of “dignity.”
The “sin” of being called “doctor” does not apply to those pastors who have earned a legitimate doctorate or with pastors who have been awarded honorary doctorates from an accredited institution or from any of our AME institutions.
I would be honored to accept an honorary degree from any one of our AME institutions of higher learning or from any accredited institution of higher education, but I would not accept a degree of any kind from a degree mill or unaccredited institution.
Editor’s Comment: We will get to the local church officers and the local church members’ “sins” in a subsequent issue.
2. NEW MT. ZION AME CHURCH, TALLAHASSEE, FLORIDA PODCAST:
You can view this ministry by clicking on New Mt. Zion A.M.E. Church
http://viewers.streamingfaith.com/viewer/ODCRoundup.aspx?
Editor’s Note: The Christian Recorder Online would like to share other creative ministries throughout our Zion. For historical purposes, the 15th Episcopal District presided over by Bishop Samuel Green was the first to introduce AME podcast ministry via The Christian Recorder. I understand that there are only 4 other AMEs on www.streamingfaith.com : Empowerment Temple in Baltimore, Allen Cathedral New York, St. James Newark; and Turner Chapel, Marietta, Georgia.
3. READER RESPONSES TO EDITORIAL AND OTHER ISSUES:
- To the Editor:
Let me pose a question to you.
If you took the chassis of a Ford, the body of a Cadillac, the head lights of a Toyota, the windshield of a Jeep and the hubcaps of a Chevrolet and put them together, what kind of vehicle would you have and what would you call it?
Well, that's what some of our churches are becoming. The AME Church is a Church of choice. Everyone who confesses to be called to the field of ministry may not be suitable for the pulpits of the AME Church.
So if you discover that the AME Church is not for you, you should make your exit and not become a Renegade by changing its policies, doctrines and orders of Worship. There is a process by which changes are made in our Zion. Copying from other denominations sends a sobering message to our members and others. If there are goals that do not seem possible to reach while serving in an AME pulpit, you should be "Christian" enough to admit it and make your exit but do it in a proper manner. There is a process in place, but don't try to change what the founding Fathers left in place for us. In some of our Churches you can hardly recognize whether you are in an AME Church or somewhere else.
Examples include, ministers and members giving the sign of the Cross when administering and taking the Holy Communion, chancel rails being removed, baptismal fonts taken and used for offerings, ministers standing behind the pulpit extending the Call to Discipleship, and there are other things that are being done that make you wonder in which church you are worshipping. Some of our members are totally confused. They are at a loss in explaining why they do what they do.
Some are leaving the Church and joining other denominations that are clearly defined, with strict adherence to their doctrine and traditions. Everywhere you go you will run into someone who "used to be an AME" and it’s not because they don’t like the AME church, it’s because many of the pastors have “watered-down the liturgy.”
Nolan T. Pitts, AME Pastor Retired.
Eatonville, Fl
- To the Editor:
I must commend you on writing the article "Sometimes To Busy In Ministry And Not Busy Enough." The facts are especially true for the smaller churches across our Zion.
Ministers do not support or encourage the Lay Organization and almost seem as if they are afraid of the Lay Organization. Some pastors operate the life of the local church without the participation of the members and, in some cases; the members no longer know what is going on in the churches.
There seems to be favoritism and some churches are not being faithful to The Discipline. Some of our churches do not have Church Conferences or Official Board Meetings; the churches just run. And, as a result, the AME Church is fighting an uphill battle to keep its dedicated members.
Thank you for the article. I hope every minister will read it.
Mary Rodall
Editor’s comment: We love the AME Church and there are those across the world who love the AME Church; as Chaplain Carroll Chambliss used to write, “The Church of My Choice.”
I believe that some people may have left, and may be leaving the AME Church because we have ceased to be faithful to our AME doctrines and theological heritage. They are not leaving because our services are too dry or because they don’t like the Decalogue; they are leaving because of a lack of pastoral leadership, lack of pastoral lay creativity, and the absence of AME authenticity in our local churches! Some of our pastors have discouraged and have failed to incorporate the laity into the life of the Church. So, people go to other denominations and independent churches where they can have some ownership in the life of the congregation.
Perhaps, we need a revival, first among the clergy and then with the laity.
Or perhaps, bishops, presiding elders, and pastors all across our Zion need to hold open “town meetings” to assess where we are and where we want to go. Town meetings of our presiding elders with the pastors, and pastors with the members of the local church and the bishops to oversee the entire process – and to have open dialogue as we are doing with the CONVOS.
4. THE REVEREND DR. JOSEPH DARBY PRAYER AT THE CNN PRESIDENTIAL DEBATE:
Gracious, merciful and omnipotent creator, we thank you for the
blessings of this day; we thank you for your grace, for your wisdom and for your mercy; we thank you for this night’s exercise in the blessing of democracy, and we thank you for those who on this night will further state and clarify their vision for the well being of our nation and World.
Bless and guide all that is said and done here this night. Bless those who shall soon stand before us to speak to America, so that their words will help us to be more responsible participants in the electoral process, and god, bless America.
God, bless America in a time of war, that we might soon “study war no more.”
God, bless America in a time when division and prejudice are still ravaging those most in need among us.
God, bless America in a time when some who seek public office use the proclamation of their faith only as a convenient political tool to promote their arbitrary political agendas.
Bless our nation and bless us this night to benefit from this dialogue, and bless us as Americans when this night is done to live by the words of your servant, Isaiah, so that we can reason together, so that we can find common ground as Americans, so that we can promote the general welfare of all of your creation, and so that one day, we will achieve the goal of being “One nation, under god, indivisible, with liberty and justice,” not for some, but for all. Amen.
5. HISTORIOGRAPHER DICKERSON IS A CANDIDATE FOR REELECTION:
The Reverend Dennis C. Dickerson, Ph.D., the Executive Director of the Department of Research & Scholarship of the African Methodist Episcopal Church presents himself for reelection as the 13th Historiographer and the 13th Editor of The A.M.E. Church Review.
His service has been both faithful and productive.
On July 21, 2007 Dr. Dickerson addressed the Sixth Historical Convocation of the United Methodist Church meeting in Chevy Chase, Maryland.
In celebration of the Charles Wesley Tercentenary the A.M.E. Church Historiographer delivered a paper on “Negotiating Denominational Identity: African Methodism and Wesleyan Hymnody.” He emphasized the historic and foundational emphasis of Wesleyan hymnody in A.M.E. doctrine and worship. Dr. Dickerson’s presence was typical of the many venues where the Historiographer explains and spreads to audiences what is the history and theological witness of the African Methodist Episcopal Church.
Faculty and students at the Methodist University of Sao Paulo in Brazil in 2006, for example, listened to lectures and paper presentations from Dr. Dickerson about African Methodism and in 2007, an international group of Wesleyan scholars at the 12th Oxford Institute on Methodist Theological Studies at Christ Church College at Oxford University in Oxford, England in August 2007 also will hear the Historiographer discuss the influence of Wesleyanism in shaping the A.M.E. Church, one of the world’s largest Methodist bodies.
The best person for Historiographer is already on the job! Dr. Dickerson thanks you for your past support and appreciates your continuing support for his work as Historiographer/Executive Director of the Department of Research & Scholarship at the 2008 General Conference in St. Louis, Missouri.
Dr. Dennis C. Dickerson
6. SEVENTH EPISCOPAL YPD’ERS SELECTED INTO THE PEOPLE TO PEOPLE STUDENT AMBASSADOR PROGRAM:
Seventh Episcopal YPD’ers Eduardo II and Morgan Curry, children of the Reverend Eduardo K. Curry and Judge Tamara C. Curry; Board Member of Allen University were both selected into the People to People Student Ambassador Program.
Eduardo and Morgan traveled throughout the outback of Australia for three weeks.
The program promotes international understanding while building leadership skills among America’s youth. Their experience included, meeting government officials, interaction with other students, educational activities, and home stays with host families.
Participants of People to People Student Ambassadors are carefully interviewed and evaluated before their acceptance and Eduardo and Morgan are honored to have been selected.
Submitted by Tamara C. Curry
7. IT WAS A GREAT DAY IN SALVISA, KENTUCKY:
It was Sunday, July 15, 2007 in Salvisa, Kentucky a “very small” town (that’s the way it is described on the Internet) north of Harrodsburg right on the Bluegrass Parkway.
Salvisa is the home of Craig Chapel African Methodist Episcopal Church on Walnut Street which sits on land purchased in 1870; the church was built in 1882.
The Craig Chapel Church family celebrated its 91st Annual Rally Day and their guest speaker was the retired and renowned, the Reverend Dr. Cecil L. “Chip” Murray.
Soon after the arrival of numerous churches and residents in the area, the sensation of excitement was apparent as the Reverend “Chip” Murray made his appearance and the presence of royalty was felt as salutations were given, pictures were taken and people chatted excitedly. Reverend Chip was most gracious as he greeted each person who wanted to speak with him. His warm, genuine smile seemed to light up the dining hall and the sanctuary, which was packed to capacity.
The theme for the day was, “Amazing Grace: Celebrating Our Past, Present and Future” and it was truly an amazing event. It all begin with a scrumptiously delicious dinner served under a tent and in the newly renovated parsonage; Oh! And they can cook in Salvisa. Country ham, southern fried chicken, green beans, scrumptious corn, buttered squash, golden macaroni and cheese, rolls and an assortment of cakes for dessert.
Following the dinner, we moved to the newly renovated sanctuary for the worship service celebration.
The Spirit was high as the Reverend Dr. Robert A. Strode, pastor St. John – Frankfort, served as Worship Leader. The music for the occasion was rendered by St. John’s Choir under the direction of Mr. Charles Little. The ministers of the Kentucky Annual Conference were the program participants with the presiding elder of the Lexington District, the Reverend Ralph E. Johnson leading the Dedication of the Church and Parsonage.
The Reverend Dr. “Chip” Murray used for his subject, “Amazing Grace Beyond Our Boundaries.” His message held the congregation spellbound as he told humorous stories interlaced with stories of Moses, Gideon, and Jeremiah and shared what God accomplished through them. He reminded the congregation that “God will move us beyond our fears, but we must move ourselves beyond our foolishness.”
The Reverend Dr. Roger Richardson, pastor of Craig Chapel, was beaming with pride and thankfulness at the success of the day. He was overcome with emotion as he introduced his fiancée, mother, aunt and future mother-in-law and his eight members who had worked untiringly to raise over $11,000.00; no, that is not a typo eight members raised over $11,000.00. Don’t even think about calling Craig Chapel a “small” Church!
The Pastor and Church Family were presented a plaque for their work and dedication in Kingdom building by Presiding Elder Ralph Johnson. What a Day of Rejoicing it was!
The generosity and caring ways of the members of Craig Chapel was duly noted in that everyone in attendance received a souvenir journal.
The 91st Annual Rally Day will be long remembered and the pictures taken, not only will they record the events of the day, but will serve as a reminder for generations to come.
Carry on Craig Chapel – Salvisa, you have proven that the Bible is true by taking to heart the passage of Scripture found in Matthew 18:20 “For where two or three are gathered together in my Name, there am I in the midst of them.” It’s also true – God’s Grace is amazing!
We should not live in the past, yet we should always remember the past, but live in the present, looking to the future for that blessed hope and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Savior, Jesus Christ!
It was a “Great Day!”
Doris J. Coffey – Reporter for the Kentucky Conference
8. ST. PAUL A.M.E. CHURCH IN WASHINGTON, PA. AND ITS MORTGAGE BURNING CEREMONY:
By Lynda Guydon Taylor
As the organist played “All Hail the Power of Jesus’ Name,” celebrants proceeded into Saint Paul A.M.E. Church in Washington, Pennsylvania beginning the celebration of its mortgage burning in May.
Celebrants packed the pews on May 27, 2007, to rejoice in song and praise, capping the goal of retiring the $75,000 mortgage on their 14-year-old building. The program, titled “Stepping Out on Faith,” ended with the mortgage being set aflame. Ashes were all that remained.
When he arrived at St. Paul in November of 2004, Pastor Arthur E. Doctor, Jr., recalled looking at the seven years remaining on the $1,100- a-month mortgage and thinking it was crazy.
He ignited the idea of retiring the mortgage in a year’s time. Members were asked to pledge $1,000 on behalf of the goal and pay however they could -- in a lump sum, monthly or weekly installments.
“I asked God how to liquidate it and that’s what God showed me,” Pastor Doctor said of the pledge drive. Assisting in the drive was the mortgage burning committee consisting of Brothers Julius Lillard, Arthur (Spunky) Ferrell and Sisters Charleszine Ponton and Lynn Hull.
The drive began in July 2005 and ended in March 2007. Church members charted the progress in $5,000 increments via a poster on a rear sanctuary wall.
“It was God’s plan. The people of Saint Paul believed in it,” Pastor Doctor said.
One church member who believed was Sister Ponton. She was there when construction got underway in 1993 and dutifully photographed the process. “This day my cup runneth over,” she said during the service.
At the afternoon ceremony in a sermon entitled, “Victory” the Rev. Robert Vaughn Webster of the Third Episcopal District remarked, “today we rejoice.”
Recognizing Pastor Doctor’s short time at Saint Paul and the fellowship he enjoys with the congregation, Bishop Webster said he was reminded of the word victory. “So many of us are living a life of poverty, Lord knows we need a victory,” he said.
Although Bishop Webster said he had frequently witnessed the “signing of notes [mortgages],” St. Paul’s ceremony was the first time he had seen a mortgage set afire. As Pastor Doctor lit a candle and other participants did the same, they took turns lighting the mortgage. Several local ecumenical leaders joined Saint Paul in the celebration.
With the mortgage retired, the church has turned its attention to adding an education wing to serve members and children in the community. “To have a dream and add a wing for children, “we join you, we support you in what you attempt to do,” Bishop Webster said.
The afternoon ceremony was preceded by a morning service when Pastor Doctor’s father, Bishop Arthur Doctor Sr. of New Greater Zion Faith Pentecostal Church in Charleston, South Carolina, officiated. He preached a sermon entitled, “In it to Win It.”
By retiring its mortgage, St. Paul, with God’s help, has done just that.
9. CHURCH SCHOOL CONVENTION:
*Shelly Brown
The 139th Session of the Pittsburgh District and The Allegheny Scranton District Combined Church School Convention commenced on June 21-23, 2007 at Robert Morris University, Moon Township, PA. The theme was: SERVING WELL: IS IT IN YOU? James 2:14-17.
As each District gathered on the campus of Robert Morris University with great anticipation, the Spirit truly met our expectations. Presiding Elder Rev. Samson Cooper and Rev. Dr. Eric L. Brown, Russell Bynum – Superintendent Pittsburgh District and Valerie McElvy – Superintendent Allegheny Scranton District, greeted those assembled.
Rev. Dr. Earl Grimes Harris, pastor of Greater Allen A.M.E. Church – Dayton, OH and candidate for Episcopal Service 2008 was the guest preacher for the noon day service on Thursday, June 21. His theme was “Secret Service”. Scripture – Matthew 6:1-4. Service is what we do to honor God. We lose the approval of God when we desire to seek men and women.
The youth of the Convention participated in Bible Bowel I Thursday evening. There were two teams and the superintendents of both Districts asked questions relating to facts about the A.M.E. Church and also bible trivia. At the end of this competition, Team A led by 29 points and Team B had 24 points.
On Friday, June 22, the teams assembled again for Bible Bowel II. There were firing fast questions examples of which were reciting the Psalm 23, the Apostle’s Creed and the Lord’s prayer and also a quick drawl which one team member from each team had to repeat the scripture given and the first person to find scripture had to read it out loud and give their interpretation of it. for the teams to answer. Team A won with 47 points. Team B had 41 points. Both teams received prizes so everyone truly was a winner!
There also was a basketball tournament on Friday afternoon. The Young vs. the “Not so Young” boys’ teams. Rev. Kary Williams Jr., pastor of Wayman A.M.E. Church – New Brighton, PA was the referee. It turned out that the “not so young” are still very much young at heart winning by 10 to 7! “Holy Shooters” vs. “The Servers” came out on to winning 7 to 3 for the girl’s teams.
With the Convention Choir singing “I just want to thank you for blessing me” certainly set the tone for the Friday evening worship service. Rev. Melva Terry, pastor New Life A.M.E. Church, Pittsburgh, PA preached. The theme was “Cross Over”. Scripture Joshua 1:1-11. The example was given of how Joshua was commended by God to “cross over” into the Promised Land. This was following Moses’ death. We have to cross over things and we can’t take our excess baggage with us. Also, leaders influence other people.
The “Showcase of Talent” began with Mrs. Ericka Sanders, Park Place A.M.E. Church – Homestead, PA blessing the congregation by singing old hymns and new gospel songs. Participation from various churches included dance, rap, old hymns and new gospel which were enjoyed by all.
On Saturday morning, June 23, all classes gave an overall of what they learned. The 2007 Combined Church School Convention Teachers were:
Preschool – K
Michelle Lee Brown Chapel, Pittsburgh
Jacqueline Cooke St. James, Pittsburgh
Ages 6-8
JohnEva Haynes Brown Chapel, Pittsburgh
Rosa Moore Bethel, Pittsburgh
Beverly Deanes St. James, Pittsburgh
Ages 9-11
Rev. Rhonda Frazier-Higgins St. Stephens, Latrobe
Mrs. Lillie Wheeler Park Place, Homestead
Rev. Yuolonda Wright St. Paul, McKeesport
Ages 12-14
Gwen Cooley St. James, Erie
Elizabeth Henderson First Church, Clariton
Ages 15-18
Bert Ogden Park Place, Homestead
Rev. Lawrence Haynes Christian Chapel, Penn Hills
Adults
Rev. Cheryl Ruffin Nesmith, West Mifflin
Presiding Elder Brown presented the attendance banner to Wayman Chapel A.M.E. Church, New Brighton as they had registered the most people for the Allegheny Scranton District. There were 111 registered Church School Conventioneers.
Presiding Elder Brown paid tribute to Presiding Elder Cooper as this was his last Church School Convention as he will be retiring in September. A standing ovation was given to Presiding Elder Cooper for his 66 years of service. Presiding Elder Cooper truly has “Served Well”!
*Shelly Brown – Allegheny Scranton District Secretary
10. SED CHRISTIAN EDUCATION CONGRESS SUMMARY:
*The Rev. Will Kenlaw
The Second Episcopal District (SED) of the African Methodist Episcopal Church held its Christian Education Congress for Youth, WMS, Lay, and Clergy on July 5-7, 2007 in Hampton, Virginia. Bishop Adam Jefferson Richardson restarted this event in 2006 after almost 20 years of not having it. Bishop Richardson and Episcopal Supervisor Connie Richardson led and participated in the event from beginning to end. 1800+ participants attended the workshops and worship services at the Embassy Suites Convention Center in Hampton. The theme was "It's All About the Benjamins!" which focused on understanding money and finances.
Presiding Elder Louis Charles Harvey led the Progressive Potomac District with the Rev. Will Kenlaw serving as registrar for the Potomac District. Eleven presiding elders' districts from five annual conferences sent participants. From the Washington Annual Conference, the Potomac District registered 258 persons while the Capitol District registered 312. The other annual conferences within the SED include the Baltimore, the Virginia, the North Carolina, and the Western North Carolina.
Bishop Gregory G.M. Ingram preached the opening service on Thursday evening, July 5th. The Debutante Masters Commission Dedication Service of the SED was held on Friday evening. This was a spectacular event with more than 40 debutantes (females) and masters (males), and more than 50 junior debutantes and masters participating.
Various workshops were held on Thursday afternoon and all day on Friday, including liturgical dance, step team, and mime ministry sessions. The Potomac District was well represented as workshop facilitators and presenters, including: the Rev. Dr. Jonathan Weaver, Rev. Dr. Isaiah Harvin, Rev. Jay Gamble, Rev. Audrey Jackson, Rev. Kendra Smith, Rev. Peggy Walls, Brother Eric Domenic, Brother Keith Belle, and Brother Andre Perry. (Please charge any omissions to my head and not my heart!)
Bishop Richardson's planning meeting was also held on Thursday. Youth, Women's Missionary Society, Lay, and Clergy meetings were held on Saturday morning. The Reverend Dana Swann, SED Christian Education Director, and Sister Robin Porter Smith, SED Christian Education Assistant Director, did a marvelous job once again organizing, coordinating, and managing this glorious event.
*The Rev. Will Kenlaw
Allen Chapel A.M.E. Church - Silver Spring
Christian Education Director, Potomac District
11. ST. JOHN AFRICAN METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH NASHVILLE - “SPIRIT FILLED DISCIPLES CHANGING THE WORLD FOR CHRIST”:
St. John AME, set to launch “Biggest Loser” Contest
The leadership at St. John AME recognizes that there are health issues in the African American community that need to be addressed thoroughly and frequently. Name a disease or illness, and chances are that the impact on this community is much greater than any other group. The Pastor and First Lady of St. John AME, Rev. W. Antoni and Kristy Sinkfield, have embarked on their own version of the popular TV series "The Biggest Loser" to incite its congregants and community members to change their lifestyles for a healthier future.
The Biggest Loser contest will provide a collective accountability and support system for all who choose to participate. This competition begins with the first weigh in on August 1, 2007 and concludes Wednesday, January 2, 2008. Participants will each pay $1 at the initial weigh-in. Each week individual weight updates will be submitted to and recorded by a central "weight keeper." All participants are identified by a number so no one knows who the biggest loser is until the end of the contest. Weekly updates are provided on the total amount of pounds lost by the group. Additionally, monthly tabulations of inches lost will be submitted for tracking and reporting. Each participant contributes to the "winnings" as follows:
1. Gain weight – pay $3
2. Maintain current weight – pay $1
3. Lose weight – pay nothing!
The event culminates with the biggest loser winning the “pot” of money contributed over the six months and two round trip tickets to anywhere Southwest Airlines flies in the United States.
St. John AME Church's Biggest Loser contest will not only provide a fun, supportive forum for losing weight but will strive to address the very real and critical issues of health and wellness for the members of the congregation and the community it serves.
Submitted by Licentiate Reginald Farris
12. ST. MARK AME CHURCH OF MILWAUKEE HOLDS 71ST ANNUAL WOMEN’S DAY CELEBRATION - REV. MYRA T. BILLIPS GUEST SPEAKER:
*Faithe Colas
“Walkin in the light, the beautiful light, ain’t it wonderful how the light shines.”
Members of St. Mark AME Church, Wisconsin’s, oldest African Methodist Episcopal Church, sang praises and rejoiced in the spirit during the 71st Annual Women’s Day Celebration on Sunday, June 24, 2007.
This “special day” for women was created in 1936. The event is an opportunity to recognize the services and contributions of women to the church and their community. It is also an opportunity for women to rededicate themselves to the church.
The theme of this year’s celebration: Christian women reclaiming our heritage, faith, family and community.
Spanning generations, the church recognized one of the congregation’s senior members, 105-year old Mrs. Ethel McGrew and touted its involvement in a unique and innovative initiative, the Milwaukee Birthing Project. The project seeks to match 150 pregnant African American and Latina women with volunteer mothers who can offer advice on prenatal care, proper diet, and other steps that ensure a healthy baby.
The special guest speaker was Reverend Myra T. Billips, an ordained elder in the AME Church and part of the pastoral team at Shiloh AME Church in Galveston, Texas along with her husband, Reverend Eric Billips.
In dynamic fashion, Reverend Billips, a prodigy of the AME Church, touched the souls of St. Mark’s members and guests calling them to action saying, “You cannot stay the same, you must go higher.”
Reverend Darryl Williams, Pastor of St. Mark AME Church was beaming with joy as the church celebrated the women who are so vital to the church’s progress. “This is an opportunity for the women of St. Mark to be recognized for the wonderful work they do for this church and this community,” Rev. Williams said.
From the pulpit, using her complete vocal range and command of the scriptures, Rev. Billips had the worshipers shouting and rising to their feet, exhorting the congregation, “Come on, praise the Lord with all the attitude of the Lord and the confidence of the Holy Ghost, let’s praise the Lord!”
All who came to hear God’s message spoken through Rev. Billips left filled. She spoke deeply and passionately on reclaiming our families as women of God saying: “We must become a mind of oneness as we move about this life doing the work of Jesus and sharing the message of Our Father. We must be ready to receive the power of Jesus to do the work of God.”
Rev. Billips, who mentors young women from 19-35 years of age and heads her own ecumenical ministry, “Global Ministries for Women,” referenced I Corinthians 12, verse 26, “And if one member suffers, all the members suffer with it; or if one member is honored, all the members rejoice with it.”
She left the women of St. Mark with a list of critical questions to ponder and act on:
“Are you ready to make a Holy Ghost difference?”
“Are you ready to focus on your faith and your relationship with God?”
“Are you ready to reach back and do God’s will?”
In closing, Rev. Billips reminded the St. Mark AME Church family that they, “Have to step together to do the work of God.”
*Faithe Colas is the Publisher of the Milwaukee Courier Newspaper, Milwaukee’s oldest African American newspaper and a member of St. Mark AME Church where Rev. Darryl Williams is Pastor.
13. WARREN CHAPEL AME CHURCH CELEBRATES FAMILY AND FRIENDS DAY:
Warren Chapel AME Church of Chattanooga, Tennessee, celebrated Family and Friends Day on Sunday, July 15, 2007. The service was led by the Rev. Dr. Terence L. Mayes, Sr., senior pastor of Warren Chapel.
The church was filled to capacity as members of Warren came together with their family and friends to offer praises to God. Special guests for the occasion were the congregation of Booker Ridge Original Church of Mt. Pleasant, Tennessee. Their pastor, the Rev. Frances Orr, delivered the message.
The choirs of Warren Chapel and Booker Ridge brought the awaiting congregation to its feet with their soul stirring songs. Warren’s two liturgical dance teams – Joy and Motion, and Divine Movement, brought the church to another level as they demonstrated that it is indeed possible to worship Him through the medium of dance. And then it was time for the speaker of the hour! Rev. Orr preached a thought-provoking message appealing to the congregation to “launch out into the deep.” If we are to fulfill our missions as Christians, we must move out of our comfort zone, and work to fulfill the purpose for which God has placed us on earth. It is only then that our faith is strengthened, and God will bless us abundantly for our obedience.
The day culminated with the grand opening of the TLM Bookstore. The bookstore offers a variety of Christian merchandise including books, music, and gift items.
14. THE STATE CHILDREN'S HEALTH INSURANCE PROGRAM (SCHIP) IS SET TO EXPIRE IN ONLY 70 DAYS:
The State Children's Health Insurance Program (SCHIP) is set to expire in only 70 days! Unless Congress acts soon, millions of children may lose their health coverage. As people of faith, our work to get kids covered is more important than ever. The time is now.
A Call to Care!
This summer, the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation (RWJF) is encouraging faith communities to help demonstrate broad support for SCHIP reauthorization and to help get eligible uninsured children enrolled in available coverage programs.
To learn more about this summer's activities and how your community or congregation can get involved, visit www.CoverTheUninsured.org.
In the meantime, here are three things you can do to help today:
• Order Free Materials to distribute in your communities and congregations, including fliers, posters and bookmarks
• Share our Web video on SCHIP reauthorization with your community. Our template listserv makes it easy to share the video and encourage your members to help spread the word.
• Participate in press conferences being organized in mid-August in the following states: Indiana, Iowa, Maine, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, New Hampshire, Oregon, Utah and Virginia (contact Ariane Holm at ariane.holm@gmmb.com).
• Encourage your community to plan SCHIP-related events and activities. Send our template listserv to inform your community and direct them to free planning materials.
If your community or organization is interested in supporting our summer efforts to get America's kids covered, download a participation form and e-mail it to Ariane Holm at ariane.holm@gmmb.com or fax it to (202) 338-2334.
Let's get America's kids covered! Go to www.CoverTheUninsured.org to learn more about the issue and how you can help.
Submitted by the Right Reverend E. Earl McCloud Jr.
15. BLACK MALE TEACHERS NEEDED:
Do you know any Black males who are seniors in high school who want to go to college out of state for FREE? Several Black Colleges are looking for future black male teachers and will send them to universities/colleges for 4 years FREE.
The "Call Me MISTER" program is an effort to address the critical shortage of African American male teachers particularly among South Carolina’s lowest performing public schools. Program participants are selected from among under-served, socio-economically disadvantaged and educationally at-risk communities. The program is a collaboration between Clemson University and four historically black colleges in South Carolina: Benedict College, Claflin University, Morris College and South Carolina State University.
The project provides:
a. Tuition for admitted students pursuing approved programs of study at participating colleges.
b. An academic support system to help assure their success.
c. A cohort system for social and cultural support.
Visit http://www.callmemister.clemson.edu/index.htm for more details and the online application or call (800) 640-2657.
16. CLERGY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
Ms. Ella Price, mother of Rev. Frank Price, Pastor of St. Paul AMEC-Owensboro, KY, made the transition from her Earthly Home to her Heavenly Home on Monday, July 16, 2007.
The Wake will be held at G. C. Williams Funeral Home located at 1935 West Broadway, Louisville, KY on Thursday July 19, 2007 from 6 pm-9 pm. The Funeral will be held at Magazine Street Seventh Day Adventist Church located on 1942 Magazine Street in Louisville, KY on Friday, July 20, 2007 at 2 pm.
Expressions of sympathy may be sent to:
Rev. Frank T. Price
P.O. Box 161148
Louisville, KY 40216
Submitted by:
Meka T. Wingate
Administrative Assistant to Presiding Elder Linda F. Thomas-Martin
Louisville - Paducah District
West Kentucky Conference
17. CLERGY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
The passing of Mrs. Florence Wills Kendrix, the mother of Mrs. Betty J. Tuggle, President of the Michigan Conference Lay Organization, Fourth Episcopal District African Methodist Episcopal Church.
Service arrangements for Mrs. Florence Wills Kendrix:
Viewing - 3:00 p.m. - Tuesday, July 24, 2007
Colonial Chapel and Funeral Home
1000 Redwood Street
Vallejo, CA 94590
Phone: (707) 643-0391
Funeral - Wednesday, July 25, 2007
11:00 a.m.
Colonial Chapel Funeral Home
1000 Redwood Street
Vallejo, CA 94590
Phone: (707) 643-0391
Electronic expressions of sympathy may be sent to: bjoetuggle@yahoo.com
18. CLERGY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
We regret to announce the passing of Sis. Gladys Owens-Hobbs, wife of Retired Pastor Rev. Shannon N. Hobbs (deceased) and Mother of Presiding Elder Rev. Dr. Marshall S. Hobbs, Sr. She was a life members of Johnson Chapel A.M.E. Church Fort Worth, Texas.
Arrangements are as follows:
Viewing, Sunday, August 5, from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m.
Funeral, Monday, August 6, at 11:00 a.m., both at Johnson Chapel A.M.E. Church 5235 Bonnell Street
Fort Worth, Texas 76107
The remains are entrusted to Emanuel Funeral Home.
1721 W. Oak Street
Palestine, Texas 75801
903.729.5430
Condolences may be sent to:
Rev. Dr. Marshall S. Hobbs, Sr.
8116 Ocean Drive
Fort Worth, Texas 76123
Or to:
Emanuel Funeral Home at the above address.
Please remember this family in your prayers.
Rev. Dr. Marshall S. Hobbs, Sr., P.E.
8116 Ocean Drive
Fort Worth, Texas 76123
PresidingElder@paulquinndistrict.org
817-361-0089
817-727-2816
19. CLERGY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
Mrs. Nettie Edwards Newell, 92, a lifelong member of the Historic Saint Paul African Methodist Church, Independence, Missouri, passed away Sunday, July 22, 2007. Sister Nettie Edwards Newell is the cousin of Rev. Ned H. Edwards of Tulsa, OK.
Service arrangements:
Funeral Services:
Saturday, August 4, 2007
9:00 a.m. Visitation
11:00 a.m. Service
Saint Paul AME Church
200 E. Lexington Ave.
Independence, MO 64050
Professional services entrusted to:
Lawrence A. Jones & Sons Funeral Chapels
1800 East Linwood Boulevard
Kansas City, Missouri 64109-2097
Phone: (816) 921-1800
Fax: (816) 924-2113
Email: missourichapel@lawrenceajones.com
Expression of sympathy maybe sent to:
The family of Mrs. Nettie Edwards Newell
c/o Mrs. Freddye Mae Smith
R. R. 21204 East Blue Mills Road
Independence, Missouri 64058-2033
E-mail expressions of sympathy to: freddyems@yahoo.com
20. 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
21. 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
