1/10/2007

THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER ONLINE ENGLISH EDITION (1/10/07)

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: AFRICAN METHODISTS ARE FAITHFUL IN MAINTAINING THE TRADITIONS OF THE MEAL MINISTRY OF JESUS:

The Open table in Methodist tradition is a Christian exception to most other denominations as it relates to Holy Communion. I am so happy to be a member of the African Methodist Church, which follows the biblical tradition of the meal ministry of Jesus.

Some denominations exclude people because they were not baptized in a particular mode; communion is refused to others because they have not been baptized; others exclude because they have not spoken in unknown tongues; others are refused communion because they are not members of a certain denomination; still others are not served communion because they do not belong to a particular local church; and some denominations refuse the Lord’s Supper to children; and the list goes on and on. I have seen some churches voting on whether a person can become a member of a local congregation. My Bible tells me, “All we like sheep have gone astray” and who am I to vote on whether a person is holy enough to be a member of the congregation; but that’s another editorial.

The Invitation in the AME Church simply states, “You that do truly and earnestly repent of your sins, and are in love and charity with your neighbor, and intend to lead a new life following the commandments of God, and walking from henceforth in His holy ways, draw near with faith and take this holy sacrament to your comfort; and make your humble confession to Almighty God, meekly kneeling.”

Our invitation is positive, no exclusions; no baptism exclusion, no children exclusion, no membership exclusion, no exclusions at all. The positive requirements are that you truly and earnestly repent of your sins, and are in love and charity with your neighbor, and intend to lead a new life…” That’s biblical and it follows Jesus’ model; I don’t care what you heard in anybody else’s church.

The meal ministry of Jesus throughout his ministry was inclusive. When he fed the multitudes (the 4000 and the 5000), he fed them all; men, women and children. The scripture does not record that he asked the sinners to step aside. He fed them all. When Jesus ate at the tax collector’s house, there was not an exclusion of certain types of people. He was criticized for eating with the sinners and the tax collectors; but he continued to eat with them.

The ministry and model of Jesus, was one of inclusiveness. Matthew, Mark and Luke record an event when children were brought to Jesus and his disciples began to rebuke those bringing the children to Jesus, but Jesus rebuked the disciples and blessed the children. You cannot find any incident of exclusion in Jesus’ meal ministry.

Holy Communion was instituted by Jesus and there is no indication that Jesus intended for the Eucharist to exclude anyone. We, in the Methodist tradition practice an Open Table and “open” means open. In Methodism, generally and in the African Methodist Episcopal Church, in particular, a person does not have to be baptized to take Communion.

Of course, our mission is to save and baptize the world and our sermons should make the point that the acceptance of God’s grace should result in a personal obligation to be baptized, live a Christian life, and if we have children, to rear them using the biblical model. Every pastor and every member should be working in concert to baptize every soul who walks into our sanctuaries, but we do not exclude them from the Open Table. The invitation is clear, “You that do truly and earnestly repent of your sins, and are in love and charity with your neighbor, and intend to lead a new life following the commandments of God, and walking from henceforth in His holy ways, draw near with faith and take this holy sacrament to your comfort; and make your humble confession to Almighty God, meekly kneeling.”

The Apostolic church instituted an Agape Feast, which evolved into the love feast. Early AME Churches had class meetings and love feasts prior to Communion. Historically, the love feast was celebrated with bread and water. The Bread was symbolic of our goodwill toward one another and water was symbolic of our desire for purification. The Love Feast and class meetings were to facilitate our love for God, our love for each other and our desire to live holy lives.

And, on Sundays, in years past, when parishioners attended worship and especially on Communion Sundays, the foundation would have been laid for parishioners to respond to the Invitation, as it used to read, “Ye that do truly and earnestly repent of your sins and are in love and harmony with your neighbor…draw near with faith…”

So pastors, when you give the invitation, read or recite what is in the AME ritual. Consult the AME Discipline or the AME Hymnal to be absolutely sure, and avoid being influenced by inappropriate wording you may have heard used by Baptists, Pentecostals, or other denominations. Believe in your own AME ritual and teach that to your congregants. "Ye that do truly and earnestly repent of your sins, draw near with faith ..."

Excursus: So what was the purpose of the class tickets issued at the Love Feast? The class-tickets were issued to show faithful participation in the class meetings and attested the members were keeping the General Rules. As Sister Carol Croskey recently observed, “The Love Feast prepares us for Communion...and allows us attempt to "be in love and charity" because it is the water that cleanses us and the breaking of bread with one another that allows for fellowship” and she went on to say, “At least that is how we practiced at Bethel, Tallahassee.”

2. AME SPOUSES’ NEW EMAIL ADDRESS & NOTICES:

The Clergy Family Information Center of the A.M.E. Church has again experienced difficulties in sending bulk e-mail via America Online. The refusal of America Online to grant clearance for the continuation of our global online email notification ministry has necessitated our securing a new Internet service provider that we might continue our service rendered for the Called Servants of the A.M.E. Church and their families.Please note our new email address: Amespouses1@bellsouth.net .

All bereavements and congratulatory notices sent for posting should be emailed to: Amespouses1@bellsouth.net .

Please continue to pray for this ministry, “And we shall not grow weary in well doing, for in due season, we shall reap, if we faint not.”

Sister Ora Easley

Editor’s note: Let’s keep Sister Easley and her powerful ministry in Prayer.

3. CLERGY OF THE WEEK: THE DISTINGUISH PRESIDING ELDER- THE REV. DR. HENRIETTA SCOTT FULLARD, A PROMINENT LEADER FOR THE 21ST CENTURY LEADS AND EXCELS IN EXCELLENCE:

Rev. Edrena Houston Brown, M.A.C.E.
Christian Recorder, Staff Writer

The Prominent and Distinguish the Reverend Dr. Henrietta Scott Fullard was the First Woman Presiding Elder of the Historic Philadelphia District (Mother District) of the Philadelphia Annual Conference. She presently serves as the Presiding Elder of the Famed the Jamaica-Long Island District of the New York Annual Conference, where she was appointed in June 2005 by the Illustrious Bishop Richard Franklin Norris, the Presiding Prelate of the First Episcopal District of the A.M.E. Church.

Presiding Elder Fullard is a native of Kingstree, South Carolina and is a product of the parsonage, where she was raised in a loving home and her spirituality was rooted in having Faith in God. Her father's lifelong work which he continues to serve in ministry, The Reverend Henry G. Scott, assistant pastor of the Cornerstone Baptist Church in Brooklyn, New York is proud of the many gifts and blessings that God is bestowing upon his daughter.

As a Woman of Faith and integrity is seen in her life throughout all levels of the church and her faith is the basis of her ministry. The Reverend Dr. Fullard served as an associate minister under the dynamic leadership of The Reverend Dr. Floyd Fake. Rev. Dr. Fullard was appointed during her tenure at that time, as the chairperson for the women's ministry. Later she was ordained as an Itinerant Elder in the African Methodist Episcopal Church, in the First Episcopal District. She presently serves as the Advisor to the New York Conference Branch Women In Ministry (WIM) in the First Episcopal District. While interviewing Presiding Elder Fullard she was asked; As a Prominent female Presiding Elder, do you feel that more doors of opportunities in administrative management will open for women during the 21st century? She replied that;” We are presently living in an exciting period of transition for women. The measuring instrument for change now has to analyze the present statistics. More women are securing educational degrees in many of the areas that were traditionally non-female. This includes theological educational pursuits as well. Many women are selecting these areas as primary careers and in some cases are juggling family, career, and ministry all at the same time. The trend is parallel to that which is found in most AME churches. The presence of women in major church administrative roles has increased significantly. Women are now, Vice-Chairs of Steward and Trustee Boards and many are presidents of church clubs and auxiliaries. We acknowledge our role in other areas of leadership in our communities. More women are politically pursuing elected offices, and are aspiring to and receiving positions on professional and corporate levels. With these experiences, women bring a cadre of skills and knowledge to there administrative functions in the church and, therefore, is rising to top levels in the hierarchy of the A. M. E. Church. Our church has offered support to women through legislation. The doors are open and the opportunities do exist for more to women to participate in administrative management. We continue to move hand in hand with our brothers to work together for kingdom building. The 21st Century woman will bring a valuable outlook to strategic change that will serve this present age."

As an outstanding scholar, she graduated from South Carolina State College in Orangeburg, South Carolina, where she earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Chemistry. Her ambition was to become a research chemist. However, upon graduation she assumed a position with the Brooklyn Jewish Hospital in Brooklyn, New York as an Endocrinologist, and later at the Teacher's College of Columbia University, where she graduated with a Master of Arts in Science Education. She later attended the New Brunswick Theological Seminary where she earned was conferred the Master of Divinity degree and later was bestowed an honorary Doctor of Divinity and a Doctor of Education Degrees, as a noteworthy Theologian.

Presiding Elder Fullard was later asked the question as to whether or not pastors are given opportunities to enhance their leadership skills in her district and by what means. Rev. Dr. Fullard stated; “Pastors are given opportunities to enhance their leadership skills. They are provided with workshops and seminars during planning meetings, church school conventions, and district conferences. Just recently, many of them participated in a 2-day Faith-Based Economic Development Conference. Other conferences offered workshops on 1) Leading and Growing a Church, 2) Defining the leader within, and 3) Preparing and developing a budget. Pastors are constantly looking for better ways to address the community and personal needs of church members. There is a network that pastors have developed that serves as an effective way to share best practices. Pastors are encouraged to develop goals and objectives that are realistic and achievable. This is primary for a leader to have. By doing so, all members are aware and can give their support to the broader scope of the church."

Rev. Dr. Fullard also served as Pastor of the Bethel A. M. E. Church, Arverne, New York. She implemented creating a merge between civic government and non-government agencies and forming neighborhood alliances. She endeavored to develop her church community by promoting programs and services that were geared toward community empowerment, economic development, job opportunities and capital investment. With her ambition to succeed and forever trusting in Jesus, she continued to participate in the building of a sustainable community with stability in health, education and spiritual growth through the many gifts and graces that God has blessed her with; she founded the Bethel Arverne Home Health Aide Training Program. This program has successfully graduated three classes. Adult students who have graduated have been successfully blessed and able to return to the work force in securing meaningful and gainful employment.

Children, youth and young adults are special in the heart of Rev. Dr. Fullard. She began her life long career as a teacher of Chemistry at John Jay High School with the New York City Board of Education. This vibrant and distinguished educator of excellence and commitment to education led her to serve as a grade advisor, assistant college advisor and coordinator of the science department at Andrew Jackson High School in Cambria Heights, New York. Later she was promoted to assistant principal and in 1994 she was appointed to be the first principal of the newly formed Mathematics, Science Research and Technology Magnet School. She led the staff in the implementation of programs for the students. Dr. Fullard distinguished the school in its earliest accomplishments by becoming partners with two major federal agencies, the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) and the United States Department of Agriculture.

Her dual career as an educator and Presiding Elder is evident in the Jamaica Long Island District of the New York Annual Conference of the A.M.E. Church. When asked Presiding Elder Fullard; Suggestions on How could the Presiding Elder Districts retain the participation of youth in the church? She expressed; "The presiding elder districts can retain participation of youth in several ways. The quarterly conference is a starting point for reaching young people at the local church level. Youth organizations in the church should be ready to share actively in every aspect of the church. The church school convention and the district conference have the opportunity to engage youth in developing leadership skills through academic accomplishments, i.e. literary presentations; serving along with adults on conference committees, serving as peers to other youths, developing service activities for youth on a community- wide level, i.e. senior citizen support, outreach to foster homes and orphanages, and giving community service to fulfill school requirements. Many churches are now having youth worship services; therefore, youths should have an active and intentional role in all aspects of the church."

As a community leader she is actively involved in many ways community, civic associations and fraternal organizations. She is a member of Community Planning Board 14, St. John's Episcopal Hospital Advisory Board, Secretary of the Community Advisory Board of New York Colleges, Board of Trustees for the New York Annual Conference of the A.M.E. Church, The New York Ministerial Alliance, The Vice-President of Rockaway/Inwood Ministerial Coalition, Steering Committee of the Project for Rockaway Youth Safety and Education and numerous other civic and church affiliations.

In conclusion, there was one last question for Presiding Elder Fullard after an intensive and spirit-filled interview.

Many of her friends, colleagues and pastors wanted to know what was one of her most inspirational and encouraging moments as a Presiding Elder. She replied, ”The outpouring of love that was given to me when I moved from the Philadelphia District to the Jamaica Long Island District; I was touched by the affect that my ministry had on the churches and the lives of the members in that district. I shared in their growth in a phenomenal way and perhaps in ways that I may never know. I felt an attachment to their lives as a sister beloved. I saw some churches and members come alive with a sense of hope, purpose, and vision. They were inspired to do ministry in ways that expressed the present conditions of their community and their lives. Many of the members said they would never be the same."

Congratulations to the Rev. Dr. Henrietta Scott Fullard and we thank her for being a spiritual role model and a distinguished leader in the African Methodist Episcopal Church.

*Reverend Edrena Houston Brown, M.A.C.E. is a staff writer for the Christian Recorder

*If you are interested in nominating your pastor, clergy staff person, PK or laity as clergy of the week, please email your letter of request to; ebrown49@hotmail.com

4. THE 2007 – 2008 FIRST EPISCOPAL DISTRICT AND CONNECTIONAL A.M.E. CHURCH CALENDAR:

2007:

JANUARY 9-12, 2007
Church Growth & Development, Nashville, TN

JANUARY 12-14, 2007
1st Dist WMS Learning Experience, Hyatt Regency, New Brunswick, NJ

JANUARY 18-20, 2007
Council of Bishop's Retreat, 8th District

JANUARY 24-27, 2007
WMS Executive Board Meeting, Birmingham

FEBRUARY 6-7, 2007
Global Development Council, Cape Town, Republic of South Africa

FEBRUARY 8-10, 2007
Founders Day Celebration, First District Plaza

FEBRUARY 23-24, 2007
1st District Lay Mid-Year Meeting, Embassy Suites, Philadelphia Airport

FEBRUARY 26-28, 2007
CONVO IX, Charlotte, NC

2007 First Episcopal District Annual Conferences:

MARCH 8-11, 2007
Bermuda, South Hampton

MARCH 19-25, 2007
New Jersey, St. Matthew

APRIL 12-15, 2007
Delaware, Bethel, Wilmington

APRIL 17-22, 2007
New England, Charles Street, Boston

APRIL 23-29, 2007
New York, Bethel, New York

MAY 1-6, 2007
Western New York, Baber, Rochester

MAY 23-27, 2007
Philadelphia St. Matthew

JUNE 14-16, 2007
Planning Meeting, First District Plaza

JUNE 25-29, 2007
Bishop's Council & General Board, Columbus, Ohio

JULY 11-15, 2007
Connectional Lay 30th Biennial, Washington, D.C.

JULY 15-19. 2007
Y.P.D., Philadelphia, PA

JULY 19-24, 2007
WMS Missionary Quadrennial, Philadelphia, PA

JULY 27-28, 2007
1st District Lay Annual Meeting, Dover, DE

JULY 30-AUGUST 2, 2007
Christian Education Congress, Wesley College, Dover, DE

SEPTEMBER 6-8, 2007
CONVO X, Orlando, FL

NOVEMBER 8-10, 2007
Fall Convocation, First District Plaza

2008:

JANUARY 23-26, 2008
WMS Executive Board Meeting, Charlotte, N.C. ***

FEBRUARY 7-9, 2008
Founders Day Celebration, First District Plaza

MARCH 27-29, 2008
CONVO XI, Texas (TBD)

2008 First Episcopal District Annual Conferences:

MARCH 25-30, 2008
Bermuda

MARCH 3-9, 2008
New Jersey

APRIL 8-13, 2008
Delaware

MAY 13-18, 2008
New England

APRIL 21-27, 2008
New York

APRIL 30-MAY 4, 2008
Western New York

MAY 19-25, 2008
Philadelphia

JUNE 12-14, 2008
Planning Meeting, First District Plaza

JULY 4-11, 2008
General Conference & Council of Bishops, St. Louis, Missouri

JULY 21-24, 2008
Christian Education Congress, Wesley College, Dover, DE

DECEMBER 5-7, 2008
Minister Spouses Retreat, TBD

2011

JUNE 23-26, 2011
Y.P.D., Kansas City, MO

JUNE 26-31, 2011
WMS Missionary Quadrennial, Kansas City, MO

*** PLACE TO BE CONFIRMED


5. A MESSAGE FROM TURNER THEOLOGICAL SEMINARY ALUMNI ASSOCIATION PRESIDENT:

Chaplain Ammie Davis Miller

The past two years have been an exciting and productive season for the Turner Theological Seminary Alumni Association. We have accomplished much and now is the time for us to prepare for the 2007 Election of the Alumni Association Executive Board. The elections will be held at the annual meeting, February 6, 2007 at 10:00 am in the Franklin Auditorium on the campus of the Interdenominational Theological Center, Atlanta, Georgia. I invite you once again to join the Alumni as we celebrate our 113th Founders’ Day Convocation.

The 2007 Election of officers is a significant and vital component to the association future. The officers to be elected will represent the interests of more than 500 TTS Alumni around the connection. Individuals seeking an office on the Executive Board office must be present during the election. The Executive Board members include President, First Vice President, Second Vice President, Third Vice President, Recording Secretary, Assistant Recording Secretary, Treasurer, Financial Secretary, Corresponding Secretary, Historiographer, Chaplain and Parliamentarian. See Article IV, Section 12-22. We hope that you would take this opportunity to participate in this year election process by casting your vote!

All members, graduates and former students of the Alumni Association who have paid their annual dues for the Fiscal Year 2006-2007 (February 1, 2006 to January 31, 2007) are eligible for office and have voting privilege. See Article III, Section 1-5 and Article IV, Section 11 of the By-Laws and Constitution, Ratified February 13, 2006. Dues were increased by a majority vote from $25 to $50 at the 2006 Annual Meeting. See Article III, Section 2.

The new Fiscal Year begins February 1, 2007 and ends January 31, 2008 (see Article VIII-Fiscal Year). If you do not have your 2006-2007 Official Membership Card, it could mean that the Alumni Association does not have a record of your dues. If you have already paid your dues, we appreciate your commitment and support. We ask that you please forward your 2007-2008 dues no later than January 15, 2007 that they may be properly recorded and processed prior to the 2007 election. This would ensure your voting eligibility. Please make all checks payable to the AATTS and send to Rev. Richard Yancey, Treasurer at 406 Royal Crest Circle, Cathleen, Georgia 31047 or contact him at (478) 988-4476

As president of the Turner Theological Seminary Alumni Association, I look forward to the 113th Founders’ Day Convocation, and your participation in the election process. In the same spirit, let’s continue to support our alma mater and the Church of Allen through our gifts and be opened to the next two years with the same vision and a greater Call to Make a Difference

Chaplain Ammie Davis Miller
ttsalumnipres@aol.com

6. "YOU ARE SOMEBODY!" - HENRY LOGAN STARKS SCHOLARSHIP CELEBRATES 20TH ANNIVERSARY:

Memphis Theological Seminary will mark its 20th year of honoring Dr. Henry Logan Starks with its annual Dinner and Awards Presentation on Monday, February 19, 2007 at 7:00 pm in the Grand Ballroom of the Holiday Inn, University of Memphis.

Dr. Henry Logan Starks was one of the first six African-American students to enroll at MTS after its move to Memphis in 1964. After graduation, Dr. Starks became the first African-American professor at MTS. His belief in and practice of reconciliation, ecumenically and racially, helped shape the ethos of Memphis Theological Seminary which endures to this day. He was a strong advocate for the voiceless and continually affirmed others with his favorite saying, "You are somebody!"

The event, formerly known as the Black Experience in Theological Education dinner, is held annually to pay tribute to Dr. Henry Logan Starks and benefit the scholarship fund which bears his name. It also offers an opportunity to recognize individuals who have contributed to locally and globally in a way that is consistent with Dr. Starks' legacy.

This year's honorees include civil rights pioneers, Dr. Vasco and Maxine Smith, who will receive the Distinguished Service Award. International Recording Artist Kirk Whalum will receive first annual President's Humanitarian Award.

Dr. Robert Stanley Wood, Associate Academic Dean of MTS, will be honored as this year's Outstanding African-American Alumnus. Dr. Wood received his Master of Divinity degree from Memphis Theological Seminary in 1970, a Doctor of Ministry Degree from Vanderbilt Divinity School in Nashville in 1981 and an Honorary Doctor of Divinity from Bethel College in 1990. He also holds a Bachelor of Arts degree with a major in English and minors in Bible and Religion, and Philosophy from Bethel College in McKenzie, Tennessee.

Dr. Wood is an Ordained Minister in the Cumberland Presbyterian Church in America and has served several pastorates since his ordination by the Hiwassee Presbytery in 1965. He currently preaches weekly at the Trinity Presbyterian Church (USA) in West Point, Mississippi.

Prior to assuming administrative duties at Memphis Theological Seminary, Dr. Wood served as an adjunct faculty member for five years, and a member of the Board of Trustees for a total of 16 years, including two years as Moderator. He teaches courses in Pastoral Studies, Christian Education, and Theology. He is also Director of the Doctor of Ministry Program, Clara Scott Associate Professor of Ministry, and editor of The Memphis Theological Seminary Journal.

Dr. Wood and his wife, Patricia, have two adult children, Kevin and Diantha.

7. THE 14TH EPISCOPAL DISTRICT SCHEDULE OF CONFERENCES:

The Right Reverend David R. Daniels, Presiding Prelate

Cote d'Ivoire Annual Conference

February 7, 2007 W.M.S. Annual Convention
February 8-11, 2007 Annual Conference

Nigeria Annual Conference

February 13, 2007 W.M.S. Annual Convention
February 14-18, 2007 Annual Conference

Sierra Leone Annual Conference

February 27, 2007 W.M.S. Annual Convention
February 28 - March 4, 2007 Annual Conference

Togo/Benin Annual Conference

March 14, 2007 W.M.S. Annual Convention
March 15-18, 2007 Annual Conference

Ghana Annual Conference

March 20, 2007 W.M.S. Annual Convention
March 21-25, 2007 Annual Conference

Liberia Annual Conference

April 15-17, 2007 W.M.S. Annual Convention
April 18-22, 2007 Annual Conference

Website: http://www.14thamec.org/

8. UNDERGRAD STUDENTS ARE NEEDED TO APPLY:

A number of companies and organizations have scholarship moneys available but much of the money is being returned due to the lack of applicants. We invite you to take the initiative to help families with college costs and encourage our youth to apply for the scholarships listed below.

1) BELL LABS FELLOWSHIPS FOR UNDER REPRESENTED MINORITIES
http://www.bell-labs.com/fellowships/CRFP/info.html
2) Student Inventors Scholarships http://www.invent.org/collegiate
http://www.invent.org/collegiate/
3) Student Video Scholarships
http://www.christophers.org/vidcon2k.html
4) Coca-Cola Two Year College Scholarships
http://www.coca-colascholars.org/programs.html
5) Holocaust Remembrance Scholarships
http://holocaust.hklaw.com/
6) Ayn Rand Essay Scholarships
http://www.aynrand.org/contests/
7) Brand Essay Competition
http://www.instituteforbrandleadership.org/IBLEssayContest-2002Rules.htmm>
8) Gates Millennium Scholarships (major)
http://www.gmsp.org/nominationmaterials/read.dbm?ID=12
9) Xerox Scholarships for Students
http://www2.xerox.com/go/xrx/about_xerox/about_xerox_detail.jsp
10) Sports Scholarships and Internships
http://www.ncaa.org/about/scholarships.html
11) National Assoc. of Black Journalists Scholarships (NABJ)
http://www.nabj.org/html/studentsvcs.html
12) Saul T. Wilson Scholarships (Veterinary)
http://www.aphis.usda.gov/mb/mrphr/jobs/stw.html
13) Thurgood Marshall Scholarship Fund
http://www.thurgoodmarshallfund.org/sk_v6.cfm
14) FinAid: The Smart Students Guide to Financial Aid scholarships
http://www.finaid.org/
15) Presidential Freedom Scholarships
http://www.nationalservice.org/scholarships/
16) Microsoft Scholarship Program
http://www.microsoft.com/college/scholarships/minority.asp
17) WiredScholar Free Scholarship Search
http://www.wiredscholar.com/paying/scholarship
_search/pay_scholarshipsearch.jsp
18) Hope Scholarships &Lifetime Credits
http://www.ed.gov/inits/hope/
19) William Randolph Hearst Endowed Scholarship for Minority Students
http://www.apsanet.org/PS/grants/aspen3.cfm
20) Multiple List of Minority Scholarships
http://gehon.ir.miami.edu/financial-assistance/
Scholarship/black.html
21) Guaranteed Scholarships
http://www.guaranteed-scholarships.com/
22) BOEING scholarships (soma e HBCU connects)
http://www.boeing.com/companyoffices/educationrelations/
scholarships
23) Easley National Scholarship Program
http://www.naas.org/senior.htm
24) Maryland Artists Scholarships http://www.maef.org/
26) Jacki Tuckfield Memorial Graduate Business Scholarship
http://www.jackituckfield.org/
27) Historically Black College & University Scholarships
http://www.iesabroad.org/info/hbcu.htm
28) Actuarial Scholarships for Minority Students
http://www.beanactuary.org/minority/scholarships.htm
29) International Students Scholarships & Aid Help
http://www.iefa.org/
30) College Board Scholarship Search
http://cbweb10p.collegeboard.org/fundfinder/html/
fundfind01.html
31) Burger King Scholarship Program
http://www.bkscholars.csfa.org/
32) Siemens Westinghouse Competition
http://www.siemens-foundationorg/
33) GE and LuLac Scholarship Funds
http://www.lulac.org/Programs/Scholar.html
34) CollegeNet ' s Scholarship Database
http://mach25.collegenet.com/cgi-bin/M25/index
35) Union Sponsored Scholarships and Aid
http://www.aflcioorg/scholarships/scholar.htm
36) Federal Scholarships &Aid Gateways 25 Scholarship
Gateways from Black Excel
http://www.blackexcel.org/25scholarships.htm
37) Scholarship &Financial Aid Help
http://www.blackexcel.org/fin-sch.htm
38) Scholarship Links (Ed Finance Group)
http://www.efg.net/link_scholarship.htm
39) FAFSA On The Web (Your Key Aid Form &Info)
http://www.fafsa.ed.gov/
40) Aid &Resources For Re-Entry Students
http://www.back2college.com/
41) Scholarships and Fellowships
http://www.osc.cuny.edu/sep/links.html
42) Scholarships for Study in Paralegal Studies
http://www.paralegals.org/Choice/2000west.htm
43) HBCU Packard Sit Abroad Scholarships (for study around the world)
http://www.sit.edu/studyabroad/packard_nomination.html
44) Scholarship and Fellowship Opportunities
http://ccmi.uchicago.edu/schl1.html
45) INROADS internships
http://www.inroads.org/
46) ACT-SO bEURoeOlympics of the Mind "A Scholarships
http://www.naacp.org/work/actso/act-so.shtml
47) Black Alliance for Educational Options Scholarships
http://www.baeo.org/options/privatelyfinanced.jsp
48) ScienceNet Scholarship Listing
http://www.sciencenet.emory.edu/undergrad/scholarships.html
49) Graduate Fellowships For Minorities Nationwide
http://cuinfo.cornell.edu/Student/GRFN/list.phtml?category=MINORITIES
50) RHODES SCHOLARSHIPS AT OXFORD
http://www.rhodesscholar.org/info.html
51) The Roothbert Scholarship Fund
http://www.roothbertfund/

9. THE PASTOR’S CORNER THE WAY OF THE WINNER PART II:

(10) I rejoice greatly in the Lord that at last you have renewed your concern for me. Indeed, you have been concerned, but you had no opportunity to show it. (12) I know what it is to be in need…(13) I can do everything through Him who give me strength. (Philippians 4: 10, 12, & 13)

How is it some people flow through life with an ability to come out ahead? Even when circumstances look negative, they result in positive outcomes for these persons. What does the word of God teach about living live in this fashion? This series of the Pastor’s Corner will examine “The Way of the Winner” by seeking the wisdom of God’s Word.

The Way I Think - Philippians 4: 10-12 – Winners See The Blessings Hidden In Our Needs!

“I know what it is to be in need...” (v.12) Paul openly acknowledges that he, like everyone has needs. We feel strong needs in our lives and know people have needs. Every need holds an opportunity. (You have been concerned, but you had no opportunity to show it...v.10b). Every need points to something we care about, something we value. That thing we care about is always an asset. An asset is something we value, that when properly handled, can produce greater value. The Philippians cared about Paul and saw Paul as an asset. They demonstrated their concern for Paul by giving toward his support as he preached the gospel. The world was changed through how God used Paul to share the message of Jesus Christ.

We are to build on the assets God places in our lives. God is constantly placing gifts in our lives that we see as needs. Each weekend, at Quinn Chapel in Chicago, we host dozens of boys from the surrounding neighborhood. We soon recognized the need to organize activities for the boys. During our church picnic in August of 2006, one of our men brought Djembe drums to Camp Baber. The drums were a source of constant entertainment for our youth. Seeing their interest, two of the men decided to channel the boys’ fascination with the drums into an opportunity to instill values and discipline in their lives. The congregation invested in a set of drums for the boys to learn to play. The boys’ interest in the drums has become an asset to the congregation. During a recent Sunday worship service, the boys performed the introit for the praise dancers. Mike, the adult group leader for the drum corps now plays congas during every service. There are assets/blessings hidden in every need. Whether we see them or not depends on the attitude we have. What gifts do you sometimes see as needs? When you focus on a specific need, what is the asset you are caring about?

We can even see the blessings in a crisis. Let’s define a crisis as a state of drastic or profound need. A crisis has a way of bringing out the assets God has placed in our hands. Think of the Katrina disaster and the assets it brought out.

- America and the world came together to assist the people of the Gulf Coast.
- Food, water, clothing, shelter, and money were sent to aid those in the disaster area.
- People volunteered to care for others, clean up debris, and rebuild homes.
- People opened their homes and communities provided social services and welcomed displaced persons assisting them in starting new lives.

Think about a crisis (profound/drastic need) you have seen or experienced. What assets did the crisis bring out?

Recognizing the assets/blessing found in our needs is reflective of the gospel of Jesus Christ. So often we say God looked beyond our faults and saw our needs. In truth, through His love, God the Father looked beyond our needs to see those He valued so much He sent His only Son, Jesus Christ to save us. That’s love. That’s the way of the winner!
§Use example of fire pointing out how communities rediscover some of those assets they take for granted.

“The Way of the Winner” is a series of devotionals adapted from the book” The Power of Asset Mapping, How Your Congregation Can Act on Its Gifts” www.bookbyte.com/product.aspx?isbn=156699294X
written by Luther Snow. Snow is available for congregation workshops and consultations at:
lutherksnow@earthlink.net or at home.earthlink.net/~lutherksnow/

The Rev. James M. Moody
Quinn Chapel AME Church
2401 South Wabash Ave.
Chicago, IL 60616
Phone: 312-791-1846
Fax: 312-791-9418
Email: quinnamechicago@sbcglobal.net
Website: http://www.quinnchicago.org/

10. CLERGY FAMILY CONGRATULATORY NOTICES:

- Congratulations are extended to the illustrious Bishop Gregory G. M. Ingram, presiding prelate of the Tenth Episcopal District on your Birthday, January 6, 2007.

Congratulatory email may be sent to:bishopgregory@amec-10thdistrict.org
Submitted by: The Rev. Edrena Houston Brown

- Congratulations to the Rev. and Mrs. Richard Allen Washington, the first family at First African Methodist Episcopal Church in Athens, GA, on the arrival of their son, born on December 19th, 2006 weighing in at 6 lbs. and 14 oz.

Congratulatory email may be sent to: pastor_1stame@yahoo.com

Submitted by: Ella M. Smiley, Presiding Elder
African Methodist Episcopal Church (6th Episcopal Dist.)
Augusta Annual ConferenceAugusta - Athens PE District

11. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

We regret to inform you of the passing of SGT Lawrence Torry Britton. SGT Britton was the son-in-law of the Reverend Lawrence C. Henryhand, presiding elder of the Harrisburg District, Philadelphia Conference. Sgt. Britton was killed in a motorcycle accident on December 24, 2006 in Okinawa, Japan.

The following information has been provided regarding funeral arrangements.

Funeral – Monday, January 8, 2007
Funeral – 12:30 p.m.

The Chapel, located at:

Cunningham & Sons Mortuary, Inc.
3809 Raeford Road
Fayetteville, NC 28304

Phone: 910-433-2616
Fax: 910-485-4059
dpcunningham@worldnet.att.net

Condolences may be sent to:

Tamika N. Henryhand-Britton
6836 Cinnamon Creek Circle,
#201Fayetteville, NC 28314

Presiding Elder Lawrence Henryhand
4520 Londonderry Road, #A-131
Harrisburg, PA 17109

Phone: 717-810-1920
Fax: 717-540-5812l
Email: chchap@aol.com

Please remember the families of SGT Britton in your prayers.

12. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

Mr. Calter Thomas of Phoenix City, Alabama passed on Thursday, January 4th. Mr. Thomas was the father of Mrs. Felicia Washington of Athens, GA. Mrs. Felicia Washington is the wife of the Reverend Richard A. Washington, Pastor of First African Methodist Episcopal Church in Athens, GA.

Service arrangements:

Funeral

Tuesday, January 9, 2007
11:00 AM

Spirit Filled Ministries
3898 Mulberry Drive
Columbus, GA 31907

Professional services are entrusted to:

Battle And Battle Funeral Home Inc
434 S Seale Rd
Phoenix City AL 36868

334-298-8951 (Phone)
334-298-8940 (Fax)

Condolences may be sent to:

Mrs. Calter Thomas and family (wife of Mr. Thomas)
803 26th Avenue
Phoenix City, Alabama 36869

Or to:

The Reverend Richard A. and Mrs. Felicia Washington
Post Office Box 413
Athens, GA 30603

706-248-8561 (Cell)7
06-548-6784 (Home)

Email: pastor_1stame@yahoo.com

Please remember the family in your prayers.
Submitted by: Ella M. Smiley, Presiding Elder
African Methodist Episcopal Church (6th Episcopal Dist.)
Augusta Annual ConferenceAugusta - Athens PE District

13. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICES AND CONGRATULATORY ANNOUNCEMENTS PROVIDED BY:

The Clergy Family Information Center
Bishop Carolyn Tyler Guidry, Chair
Commission on Social Action

Mrs. Ora L. Easley, Administrator
Email: Amespouses1@aol.com
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.