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 – PRESIDENT GEORGE BUSH ASKS FOR ANOTHER CHANCE:
*Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III
Editor’s note: This editorial was forwarded to The Christian Recorder Online subscribers on January 24, 2007.
George Bush asks for another chance. How many chances does this man want? In baseball, the rule is three strikes and you are out; in basketball, five fouls and you sit on the bench; and in football, if you commit a flagrant violation, you are sent to the locker room.
President George Bush, coached by Vice-President, Dick Cheney, former Secretary of Defense Donald Rumsfeld and other advisers, sent thousands of military members to a war in Iraq because he apparently thought that Iraq was responsible for the 9/11 attack on the Twin Towers. Strike one; none of the 9/11 perpetrators were from Iraq, they were all from Saudi Arabia and that should be strike two, but we will leave the fact of all of the perpetrators being from Saudi Arabia under strike one.
Mr. Bush looked the American Public straight in the eyes and told us that the Iraqis had weapons of mass destruction; no weapons of mass destruction were ever found, strike two! Bush and his staff coached General Colin Powell to address the members of the United Nations, and on television, we saw Powell point out a moving truck in a video clip and exclaimed, “There it is, a truck with weapons of mass destruction.” We all believed Colon Powell. So the misinformation about weapons of mass destruction should be strike two and the Powell fiasco should be strike three, but we will count the Powell fiasco as part of strike two. If you are counting, we really have four strikes at this point, and Bush would be “out” in a baseball game, but we are just going to chalk up two strikes.
Mr. Bush, Cheney and Rumsfeld advocated a small force for the war in Iraq. Most of the military advisors advocated a large robust force. The president prevailed. Strike three!
Up to this point, we have given him the benefit of the doubt and not counted two strikes that should have been charged against him. In baseball, he would be out, but this is not baseball. Let’s transition the miscues to a basketball motif.
Mr. Bush told us on a Navy ship that the war was over and that victory had been won. He again looked the American public in the eyes and whipped up the enthusiasm of the sailors on that ship and a lot of the American public. The reality of that moment was that the war was not won and the fighting had not ended; foul number four!
Bush then said that he had a grand design for the democratization of Iraq and the Middle East. He supported elections for the Iraqis and after the election, Mr. Bush said that the world was going to see a free and democratic Iraq; that’s his fifth foul! The elected government, up to this point, is a failure. The Iraqis don’t want a democracy; they want a theocracy or a dictator, which would be more in line with their religious traditions and history.
If Mr. Bush was in a basketball game, he would be out, yet he asks for another chance. There are so many more strikes and fouls that this president has committed. Over 3000 young men and women killed, thousands wounded, others who die from their wounds after they arrive back home in America and others will die premature deaths and still others whose lives are ruined. Thousands of Iraqis have been killed and thousands more injured and thousands upon thousand’s’ of Iraqis’ lives have been forever ruined. The cost of the war is scandalous, especially when measured against the needs of so many in this country. Many of the Katrina victims’ lives are still in chaos; and that’s just one example.
Iraq is a nation in chaos. Yesterday, U.S. Senator John McCain (R-AZ) described Iraq as a nation in chaos.
Iraq is a nation in civil war; “walks like a duck, quacks like a duck, looks like a duck, it’s a duck.” Two or three ethnic groups killing each other with rapid reciprocity is civil war! “Tit for tat” attacks, bombings, killings, suicide attacks, kidnapping are all active ingredients for civil war. The Bush administration says the chaos in Iraq is not a civil war. American Service members do not need to be in the middle of a civil war or what ever Mr. Bush is calling it. Two helicopters have been shot down, soldiers continue to be killed and the country is in turmoil.
Mr. Bush’s reality is not the world’s reality. The Iraqis; Sunnis and Shias, want the U.S. out of Iraq. The Iraqi Study Group recommends that we change course in Iraq. Many of our U.S. generals tell us that we need to change course and they do not believe that there can be a military victory in Iraq. Nations that normally support us are saying by their actions, “You got yourself into this mess, and we are going to let you get yourself out of the mess you’ve made.”
Two out of three Americans want us to change direction in Iraq and Mr. Bush wants another chance; he wants one more strike; just one more foul. If he had served in the active forces he would have heard the cliché, “If you find that you are digging yourself in a hole, stop digging!” If Mr. Bush had attended any military school and paying attention he would have studied Sun Tzu’s The Art of War and one of the principles is that you never go into a battle that you can’t win. Sun Tzu said, “When you know both yourself and others you are never in danger, when you know yourself but not others you have a half a chance of winning, and when you know neither yourself nor others you are in danger in every battle.”
President Bush said last night that the U.S. must not fail, but he has not laid out a clear strategy for winning. His record on the war in Iraq has been a record of failure. His reality is far different from the rest of us. It is obvious that he does not understand the Iraqi culture, does not see the world as others see it, and I am concerned that he does not know himself and “when you know neither yourself nor others you are in danger of losing every battle.”
The question in all of our minds is: can the Iraqis step up to the plate and do they have the will to endure? Do they have the political endurance to prevail? After all it’s their country and I hope that they are the major stakeholders in this operation.
Give Mr. Bush another chance? I vote, “No.” He has bungled all of his chances. In any competitive sport event, he would have been out and the war in Iraq is far more important than a sporting event. If he had bungled as badly on a job, he would have been fired.
No more chances. Bring the troops home now, I agree with Senator Barack Obama (D-IL) who states the he believes that we should bring the troops back home. I say; bring the troops home because in the end, that’s what we are going to do anyway!
*Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III, the Editor of The Christian Recorder served in the U.S. Army for 28 years, retired as a colonel and is a graduate of the U.S. Army Command and General Staff College; and the U.S. Army War College. He served in the first Gulf War.
2. THOUGHTS INSPIRED BY AME PRE-TEEN’S VISIT TO LIBERIA:
The poems below were written by 12 year-old Abbey Evans who lives in Long Grove, Illinois. She is the granddaughter of Mrs. Jamesina Evans, President of the Women’s Missionary Society. Abbey was inspired and wrote the poems during her visit to Liberia in the spring of 2005.
- Butterfly
Abbey Evans
In a cocoon a butterfly is trying to reach its maturity in life to become a beautiful creature of the world.
Today many countries and states are still in their cocoons trying to break free!
When they finally do, they are very careful, afraid that they may break their new silk wings.
Many of us are against helping those people, countries or states who need help breaking out of their cocoons.
But for us to be a united world, we need to help the butterflies of the world to break free; to break out of their cocoons.
- Thrive
Abbey Evans
Some of us strive and some of us are just trying to survive.
If we pray together, we will stay together in a place where we can grow and show those who don’t believe that we can succeed.
So, if some thrive to help, and some try to survive to help, then together we can all be a thriving, surviving united world!
- Team Work
Abbey Evans
When the people of the world; every celebrity, rich person, poor person or middle class person are, individually, doing their life-long jobs, assigned to them by God, little is accomplished. Individually, we can do, but so much.
But when all the people of the world, of every race, culture, and class come together, we are in for the title of, “Great Success.” Working together, we can do a lot more.
Not everyone can achieve their purpose in life on their own. But together everyone can achieve what they want and what God wants.
And I have one more thing to say: “People of the world come together and work as a team! Individually, we can do, but so much. Working together, we can do a lot more.
Editor’s note: Thank you, Abbey Evans – you may be the next Maya Angelou of Nikki Giovanni
3. READER RESPONSE TO EDITORIAL AND OTHER ISSUES:
To the Editor:
I was pleased to read your discussion with Rev. Kenneth D. Love concerning the “Jesus only” doctrine of Bishop T. D. Jakes. I too am concerned about the aberrant theology of the bishop and concerned that others might be misled by his success to accept his theology. I too agree that the best way to counter bad theology is to preach and to teach good theology. However it should be noted that if Jesus was just a mode or form of the one God, then when He prayed to the Father in the Garden and on the Cross, He was praying to Himself!?
My concern however is not limited to one person, no matter how prominent he or she may be. I am concerned about the lack of theological acumen of the Church in general. Many “fundamentalists” are stuck in a legalistic mindset, while too many “liberals” are stuck in the relativist mindset. Those of us in the middle know that these two extremes are not right, but have a problem in formulating a coherent response.
I believe that there is an alternative Bible-based theology that can stand up to the challenges of today’s world and show the way forward for intelligent dialogue with Islam and scientific thought. This is Relational Theology as found in my books, The GOD Who RELATES and The Complex ONE and The Simple ONE. More information is available on the website, http://www.rightrelates.org/
Yours in Christ,
The Rev. Roger A. Sawtelle relates7@earthlink.net
Church School Superintendent of the New England Conference
The Rt. Rev. Richard Franklin Norris is the presiding bishop
4. THE RIGHT REV. E. EARL MCCLOUD IS SIGNATORY OF AN OPEN LETTER TO PRESIDENT GEORGE BUSH:
January 23, 2007
The Honorable George W. Bush
The White House
Washington, DC
Dear Mr. President,
As leaders of churches and Christian institutions in the United States, we bring you greetings for the New Year and encouragement as you meet the challenges that face our nation and the global community. Even though we are from a wide range of Christian traditions – Orthodox, Catholic, mainstream and evangelical Protestants – we stand close together in our hopes and prayers for peace in the land we all call Holy and for the reconciliation of the children of Abraham – Jews, Christians and Muslims.
We come to you with two interrelated appeals that are central to our faith-motivated quest for peace with justice. First, we ask that you make Israeli-Palestinian peacemaking, in the context of a comprehensive Arab-Israeli peace initiative, an urgent priority for your Administration. We recognize the great many difficulties and struggles that the people of the Middle East region must confront and the heavy responsibilities that fall upon you to help restore hope for a better future for them and for the citizens of the United States. We know that many view the Israeli-Palestinian situation as the most intractable in our troubled world, but we know that when it is resolved, the positive repercussions will go well beyond that small geographic area.
We commend your vision of a viable, contiguous Palestinian state living as a peaceful neighbor alongside the state of Israel, with both nations secure and recognized by their neighbors. With your active engagement, this vision could reignite a passion for peace that can overcome the appeal of violence, vengeance and exclusivity. The United States and the world will become safer as confidence grows that the U.S. is willing to take leadership and work cooperatively with the United Nations and other nations to resolve this conflict.
We bring to you our deepening concern for the welfare and future of the Palestinian Christian community. A small but vital part of the Palestinian society, Christians are rapidly emigrating to countries where they can gain the economic and physical security that is denied all Palestinians living under occupation. The future of the Palestinian Christians requires a solution to the conflict that will allow both peoples – Israelis and Palestinians - to live side-by-side in two states where all enjoy justice, peace and security.
The Palestinian Christian leaders have asked us to bring to your attention the very grave situation of Jerusalem. They remind us that Jerusalem is the location of “not only historical memories and sacred places of pilgrimage, but also living communities of believers.” With the construction by Israel of the separation barrier, many of the faithful – both Christians and Muslims – are excluded from the Holy City, and Jerusalem is severed from Bethlehem. Our second appeal is for you to work with Israelis, Palestinians and the international community to guarantee access to Jerusalem’s Holy Places and religious liberty for all peoples. Resolving the status of Jerusalem is key to achieving a workable two-state solution.
Mr. President, as this New Year begins, we encourage you to maintain the faith, the courage and the resolve to work with other world leaders toward negotiations that guarantee two viable and secure states, Israel and Palestine, living side-by-side and sharing Jerusalem. For guidance we look to the examples of the great prophets Isaiah and Jeremiah who declared that God calls all nations and all people to do justice to one another. We join in praying for peace in the Holy Land and at home.
Sincerely,
The Most Rev. Archbishop Barsamian
Primate, Diocese of the
Armenian Church of America (Eastern)
+Bishop Dimitrios of Xanthos
Ecumenical Officer
Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America
Bishop Thomas G. Wenski
Chairman, Committee on Int’l Policy
U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops
The Rev. Mark S. Hanson
Presiding Bishop
Evangelical Lutheran Church in America
The Most Rev. Katharine Jefferts Schori
Presiding Bishop
The Episcopal Church
Are joined by:
The Rt. Rev. Wayne Burkette
President, Provincial Elders’ Conference
Moravian Church in America, Southern Province
Simone Campbell, SSS
Executive Director
NETWORK
Tony Campolo
Founder
Evangelical Association for the Promotion of Education
Sister Mary Dacey, SSJ
President
Leadership Conference of Women Religious
Marie Dennis
Director
Maryknoll Office for Global Concerns
Rev. Robert Edgar
General Secretary
National Council of Churches
Rev. Wesley Granberg-Michaelson
General Secretary
Reformed Church in America
Ken Hackett
President
Catholic Relief Services
Rev. Dr. Stan Hastey
Executive Director
Alliance of Baptists
Bishop Janice Riggle Huie
President, Council of Bishops
The United Methodist Church
Very Rev. Dominic Izzo, OP
President, Catholic Conference of
Major Superiors of Men's Institutes
Rev. Phillip L. Jones
Director, Washington Office
Church of the Brethren
Rev. Dr. Clifton Kirkpatrick
Stated Clerk of the General Assembly
Presbyterian Church (USA)
Rev. Michael E. Livingston
Executive Director,
International Council of Community Churches
President, National Council of Churches
Albert C. Lobe
Interim Executive Director
Mennonite Central Committee
E. Earl McCloud, Jr. Bishop
Office of Ecumenical & Urban Affairs
African Methodist Episcopal Church
Rev. John L. McCullough
Executive Director & CEO
Church World Service
Mary Ellen McNish
General Secretary
American Friends Service Committee
A. Roy Medley
General Secretary
American Baptist Churches U.S.A.
Richard J. Mouw
President
Fuller Seminary
David Neff
Editor and Vice-President
Christianity Today
Leonard Rodgers
Executive Director
Evangelicals for Middle East Understanding
Br. Mark Schroeder, OFM
President, Franciscan Friars (OFM)
English Speaking Conference
JPIC Council
Metropolitan PHILIP (Saliba)
Primate
Antiochian Orthodox Archdiocese of North America
Ambassador Robert A. Seiple
Former Ambassador-at-Large for
International Religious Freedom
Ronald J. Sider
President
Evangelicals for Social Action
Rev. William G. Sinkford
President
Unitarian Universalist Association of Congregations
Msgr. Robert L. Stern
Secretary General, CNEWA
President, Pontifical Mission for Palestine
The Rev. John H. Thomas
General Minister and President
United Church of Christ
Joe Volk
Executive Secretary
Friends Committee on National Legislation
Jim Wallis
CEO
Sojourners/Call to Renewal
The Rev. Dr. Sharon E. Watkins
General Minister and President
Christian Church (Disciples of Christ)
Corinne Whitlatch
Executive Director
Churches for Middle East Peace
Bishop Gabino Zavala
Bishop President
Pax Christi USA: National Catholic Peace Movement
5. BISHOP WILLIAMS LEAPS INTO CYBERSPACE:
www.ame7.org
* Benjamin Harrison
The Right Reverend Preston W. Williams II, Seventh Episcopal District presiding prelate and President of the Council of Bishops, has launched a brand new, state of the art web site for the state of South Carolina – http://www.ame7.org/. According to Bishop and Mother Williams, “We pray this web site serves as a central source of information for the AME communities here in South Carolina and throughout the world. We pray it brings the entire Seventh District and international AME connection closer together in fellowship through communication, knowledge, and understanding. Most of all we pray this web site moves each visitor into a deeper personal relationship with God from whom all blessings flow.”
Today computers are found in most homes, schools and businesses and people are becoming increasingly comfortable using the internet to communicate with one another as well as access information from around the world. Therefore, in recognition of the importance of staying current with contemporary technology, Bishop Williams has created the most technologically advanced web site in the entire AME connection.
This web site, http://www.ame7.org/, was constructed by two of the most sought after multi-media companies in the Southeastern U.S. One of the companies which specializes in graphic design produced the incredible introduction to the web site which plays as a mini-movie. Though only 30 seconds long the intro feels epic in proportion and reflects the size, beauty, depth of integrity, and two proud centuries of American history which belong to the AME organization. The intro begins by welcoming visitors to the web site and sets a powerful tone stating, “Since 1787 – The Historic Struggle for Freedom, Equality, Identity, Justice, Honor, Faith, Love, God, AME, African Methodist Episcopal Church.” The intro then shows Richard Allen, the founder of the AME Church, along with his wife Sarah Allen, and each of the Four Horsemen – Bishops Allen, Quinn, Payne and Turner – all while the cracking sound of an anvil is being powerfully stuck by a hammer (a clear reference to Mother Bethel AME Church in Philadelphia, PA, which was forged from a blacksmith’s shop). After establishing a deep sense of history, the intro sweeps into the present moment offering some of the smiling and praying faces of today’s AME’s. When complete, the intro lands the viewer on the home page of the web site.
By logging onto http://www.ame7.org/, visitors are offered access to a plethora of AME Church information including: the meaning of the AME Church’s name, motto, mission and structure; AME beliefs founded upon the Apostle’s Creed, and the 25 Articles of Religion contained in the Articles of Faith; historical galleries on Mother Bethel AME Church in Philadelphia, PA, Mother Emanuel AME Church in Charleston, SC, The Four Horsemen, and the formation of the connectional AME Church; Bishop and Dr. Williams’ biographies accompanied by a slide show and inter-active photo display; photos of the 17 presiding elders identifying the district and conference which each governs; a listing and photos of the Seventh Episcopal District office staff; a listing of all active ministries with mission statements and photos of directors; a news section offering information on the latest events and announcements; a calendar section listing some local, and all Episcopal and connectional events; a press room with a chronological listing of press releases and articles documenting the year’s major events, along with a photo slide show of Bishop Williams engaging South Carolina’s media; an AME resource section offering links to AME related web sites; and a “Contact Us” section where visitors can email inquiries directly to Bishop and Dr. Williams, any of the presiding elders, ministry directors or Episcopal staff.
Also today, young people talk on cell phones, snap photos from their cell phones and digital cameras, upload those photos from their cell phones and digital cameras into their computers, send and receive emails and photos and access information on an infinite number of subjects from around the world through the use of the World Wide Web also known as the internet – all instantaneously done in the blink of an eye. Therefore, in recognition of both the importance of staying connected to the culture of today’s youth and that today’s youth are tomorrow’s leaders, Bishop Williams commissioned the building of this cutting edge web site as a platform to bring the younger generation closer to the AME Church and to God. In so doing, Bishop Williams has raised the AME bar of technological possibility and has pushed the envelope by building an informational infrastructure through which people around the world can communicate with and access information about the Seventh Episcopal District of the African Methodist Episcopal Church.
* Benjamin Harrison is the Public Relations Director for the 7th District, AME Church
6. LONG LIVES BIRTHDAY CELEBRATIONS HELD FRIDAY FOR WOMAN, 104, AND MAN, 98:
*By Anna Brown Staff Writer, Union Daily Times
Marie Dawkins and Velver Gregory have over 200 years of living between them and a whole lot of life experiences.
The two are the oldest people who attend St. Paul Adult Day Care. Mrs. Dawkins turned 104 Friday and Gregory celebrated his 98th birthday on Tuesday. They were treated to a cake Friday at the day care.
Mrs. Dawkins’ nephew, Earl Dawkins of Linden, N.J., and her cousin, Marilyn Gibson, were among those who attended the celebration. They both said Mrs. Dawkins had been a hard worker who had cared for others. They said she was a domestic worker who lived in New Jersey, Ohio and Florida and she saved her money to buy a house for her mother.
“She took care of her mother until her death; her sisters and her brother and helped raise her nieces and nephews,” Earl said.
Mrs. Dawkins has been a member of Paradise AME Church in the Red Point Community for many years and still attends when she is able. She is the oldest member of the church, the Mother of the Church, and has been an usher and a trustee.
“She was a good neighbor who worked in her flower garden and vegetable garden and mowed her own yard with a push mower until she was up in her 90s,” Marilyn said.
Gregory taught Sunday School at Bethel Baptist Church in Kelton for around 70 years. He is retired as a farmer and with the U.S. Forestry Service. He is a widower with children and stepchildren.
Gregory said he thinks he has had a long life and is still in good health because he has been obedient to God.
“That’s why come I’m here,” he said. “He ain’t cut nobody’s days off. You cut them off yourself by being disobedient. The Lord is my help and keeper and you’ve got to put your trust in him.”
* Donna Brown is a Staff Writer for the Union Daily Times, Union, South Carolina
**Used with permission of the Union Daily Times, Union, South Carolina. This article was printed in the January 20, 2007 edition of the Union Daily Times.
The pastor of Paradise AME Church in the Newberry-Spartanburg District is the Rev. Tobie Pollock; the Reverend Joseph Postell is the presiding elder of the Newberry-Spartanburg District. The Right Reverend Preston W. Williams II is the presiding prelate of the Seventh Episcopal District.
7. ST. PETER A.M.E. CHURCH ACTIVE IN OUTREACH MINISTRY:
Brother Alphonso Ben Varner
Fort Valley, Georgia
Reverend Bertram C. Smith, the energetic and dynamic pastor and First Lady, Mrs. Wendolyn M. Smith of St. Peter African Methodist Episcopal Church, Fort Valley, Georgia visited South Africa recently.
Bishop William Phillips DeVeaux, Sr. Presiding Prelate of the "Sweet Sharing” Sixth Episcopal District comprising the State of Georgia asked for volunteers to accompany him to the 19th Episcopal District to perform missionary work. Reverend and Mrs. Smith proudly accepted this challenge to visit the Motherland.
Bishop James Levert Davis, presiding prelate of the 19th Episcopal District with headquarters located in Johannesburg, Republic of South Africa was extremely happy to welcome Bishop DeVeaux and his constituents to the 19th Episcopal District.
While in South Africa, Reverend Smith preached to the congregation at Gabsile Khoza House of Hope located in Tembisa 1628, South Africa.
During Reverend Smith's two weeks stay in the Lsivana section; he observed the poverty stricken areas which inhabited poor people especially the children living in antiquated housing and in need of clothing, medical supplies, toiletry items, etc.
Immediately after Reverend Smith returned to his congregation in St. Peter, he assembled a task force of members from each component of the church to collect clothing, shoes, toiletry items, canned goods.
This was a total effort of the members of St. Peter to perform missionary outreach ministry to the orphans of the Lsivana Section of Tembisa, South Africa. Eight boxes of items were shipped to this area January 15, 2007.
Congratulations to the Reverend Bertram C. Smith and members of this great church for their Christ-like mission for ministry service beyond the walls of St. Peter.
8. "THE BORDER IS HERE" – A THREE-DAY GATHERING ON PEACEMAKING AND IMMIGRATION CO-SPONSORED BY THE NC COUNCIL OF CHURCHES FARMWORKER COMMITTEE:
February 2-4, 2007, The Church of Reconciliation, 110 N. Elliott Rd., Chapel Hill, NC 27514
How we can share Christ's hospitality with our brothers and sisters, be agents of reconciliation in our communities, and affect national policy?
Welcoming Rick Ufford-Chase, Executive Director of the Presbyterian Peacemaking Fellowship, former Director of BorderLinks (Tucson, AZ) and past
Moderator of the Presbyterian Church (USA)
Friday, February 2, 2007 (7:00 pm)
Stories from the Border
Celebration of Latino/Hispanic cultures through music and dance. Desserts & Coffee
Saturday, February 3, 2007 (8:30 am - 3:00 pm)
Presentations by Rick Ufford-Chase and local leaders on immigrant rights issues.
Rice and Bean Lunch provided.
Panel discussion and break-out strategy sessions to develop action plans for our community.
Sunday, February 4, 2007
(Sunday School 9:30 am, Worship 11:00 am)
Sunday School and Worship service led by Rick Ufford-Chase.
Follow-up adult Sunday School classes throughout the month of February
For additional information contact Jane Hare at jhhare@earthlink.net or Craig Carlson at cwcarlson@nc.rr.com or call The Church of Reconciliation at (919) 929-2127
9. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
We regret to inform you of the passing of Brother John Derrick Ringgold. He was the brother of Ms. Wanda Ringgold, 1st Episcopal District YPD Director. The following information has been provided regarding funeral arrangements.
Viewing and Funeral – Tuesday, January 23, 2007
Viewing – 9:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.
Funeral – 11:00 a.m.
Morris Brown AME Church
1756 North 25th Street
Philadelphia, PA 19121
Rev. Troy I. Thomas, Pastor
Phone: 215-763-4707
Fax: 215-763-1465
Condolences may be sent to:
Ms. Wanda Ringgold
7607 Wyndale Avenue
Philadelphia, PA 19151
Home: 215-879-8588
Fax: 215-879-3223
Or
Morris Brown AME Church
See above address
10. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
Dr. Sandra Griffin, wife of the Rev. Archer Griffin, Jr. (Pastor of Berry Chapel AME Church in Chattanooga, Tennessee) lost her mother on Monday evening, January 22, 2007. Her name was Mrs. Loretta Collins.
Mrs. Loretta Collins will be eulogized on Friday, January 26, 2007 at Warren Chapel AME Church, 501 N. Market Street, Chattanooga, TN, 37405 at 12:00 noon.
Professional services are entrusted to:
Franklin Strickland Funeral Home
1724 McCallie Avenue
Chattanooga, TN
423-265-4414 Phone
423-265-9997 Fax
Expressions of sympathy may be sent to:
Rev. and Mrs. (Sandra) Archie Griffin, Jr.
7621 Boriss Lane
Chattanooga, TN 37416
423-894-8542 Phone
423-580-4469 Cell
Email condolences to: Gsandrajc@aol.com
Mr. Stan McKenzie, Supervisor
13th Episcopal District
11. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
The Rev. Ralph Williamson, pastor of First African Methodist Episcopal Church of Las Vegas, Nevada lost his father on Monday evening, January 22, 2007.
Father's Name: Arthur Williamson
Address: 806 Sandy Bay Cove
Newport News, VA 23602
Phone: (757) 988-1822
Arrangements for Rev. Williamson’s Father
Funeral:
Saturday, January 27, 2007 - 12:00 Noon
Living Waters Christian Fellowship Church
15611 Warwick Blvd.
Newport News, VA 23608
Phone (757) 820-0717
Professional services are being handled by:
Cook Bros. Funeral Home
1601 27th Street
Newport News, VA 23607
Phone (757) 380-0251
Fax: (757) 245-0316
Expressions of sympathy may be sent to:
The Rev. Ralph Williamson
c/o First A.M.E. Church
2450 Revere Street
North Las Vegas, NV 89030
702-649-1774 Phone
Email: famechurch@ame.lvcoxmail.com
or [Home]
5205 Clouds Rest Avenue
Las Vegas, NV 89108
702-655-2954 Phone
Submitted by:
Barbara Beasley
Administrative Assistant
First A.M.E. Church
Las Vegas, Nevada
12. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
Ninth Episcopal District
From: Bishop T. Larry Kirkland
NINTHEPISDIST@aol.com
Mr. William C. L. Slade went to be with the Lord on Monday, January 22, 2007. Mr. Slade is the father of Reverend William C. Slade, Pastor of Livingston Chapel A.M.E. Church in Guntersville, AL.
Homegoing Service:
Friday, January 26, 2007
1:00 P.M.
Hargett-Bryant Funeral Home
519 Apple Street
Burlington, N. C. 27216
Ph. 336-228-7866
Messages may be sent to:
Rev. William C. Slade
317 Glennwood Dr.
Madison, AL 35758
Ph. 256-464-6621
13. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
Mr. James Chambers, the uncle of Mrs. Donna McLemore, First Lady of Bethel A.M.E. Church Pittsburgh, PA passed on Tuesday, January 23, 2007. He lived in Phenix City, Alabama.
Service arrangements:
Funeral
Tuesday, January 30, 2007
1:00 PM
Greater Mount Zion Baptist Church
201 S. Seale Road
Phenix City, Alabama 36867
Professional services entrusted to:
Battle & Battle Funeral Home
434 S Seale Road
Phenix City, Alabama 36867Phone: (334) 298-8951
Expressions of sympathy may be sent to:
Donna McLemore, First Lady
Bethel A.M.E. Church
2720 Webster Avenue
Pittsburgh, PA 15219
(412) 683-2160 (church)
(412) 441-6753 (parsonage)
Email: http://m03.webmail.aol.com/22250/aol/en-us/mail/display-message.aspx
14. 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
15. 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
1/22/2007
THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER ONLINE ENGLISH EDITION (1/22/07)
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 – WORDS OF DISAGREEMENT BETWEEN A BLACK PERSON AND A WHITE PERSON; BUT NOT A RACIAL INCIDENT:
Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III
Can you believe it, there were words of disagreement between a black person and a white person; and it wasn’t touted as a racial incident.
In the second week of January, there was a heated exchange between Senator Barbara Boxer and Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice. Some saw it as an attack against Secretary Rice’s single status. I am sure that some saw it as an attack of a white person (Senator Boxer) against a black person (Secretary Rice). One person lamented about the lack of response of the black community and the so-called black leaders. Though some saw the exchange as a negative; I saw it as a positive.
Let me explain. The absence of outrage in the black community was probably because the exchange was not seen as a black/white issue. Condoleezza Rice is one of the most competent persons working in the U.S. government and I am glad that black folks are not trying to make the exchange of Senator Boxer and Secretary Rice a black/white issue; it was not a racial issue. It was an issue about the war in Iraq. Senator Boxer is opposed to President Bush’s plan of increasing the number of U.S. military service members in Iraq by 21,500. Condoleezza Rice supports the President.
America has progressed significantly when we have an exchange between and white person and a black person and it is not viewed as a black white issue. I am excited and encourage; I saw the exchange and the fallout from it, as a positive.
Condoleezza Rice doesn’t need any so-called black leaders or white leaders to defend her. She has successfully transcended race and gender; the woman is good! I don’t agree with her politics, but she is good and there is no denying that. And in this instance, black and white leaders who focus on racial issues have the good sense to keep their mouths shut.
Every confrontation between a black person and a white person is not a racial incident. In the exchange between Senator Barbara Boxer and Condoleezza Rice, I took the side of Senator Boxer because her position on the war in Iraq is the moral position. I did not sympathize with Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice because I believe her support of President George Bush’s position on the war in Iraq is wrong. Sending more troops to Iraq is immoral.
And, as an aside, Senator Boxer was probably correct in postulating that if Condoleezza Rice had children who might be vulnerable to serving in Iraq, might be taking a different position on the troop increase.
I highly respect Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice because she is competent, qualified, and loyal and a woman who happens to be black who helps us to transcend the color issue because she is so qualified.
And, in this incidence, competence transcended race.
2. READER RESPONSE TO EDITORIAL AND OTHER ISSUES:
- To the Editor:
Reference editorial, “Too Many Itinerants Servings as Local Clergy”
The AME Church needs to stop ordaining those who will not serve under the identity of their status!!!! Stop awarding ordination!! Must find an ordination identity that describes the "calling" that a person is being lead, by the Holy Spirit! No law needed; must adjust and enable ministry!
I am an itinerant elder:
- I served in 2 Conferences in the Sixth Episcopal District = 3 pastoral appointments; 6 Churches {4 Church Circuit}
- I served in 4 Conferences in the 5th Episcopal District= 5 pastoral appointments; 5 Churches.
- I helped to plant two Churches: one in Missouri and one in California.
The Reverend Dr. Leslie R. White
Grant AME Church, Los Angeles
-To the Editor:
Reference editorial, ”Too Many Itinerants Servings as Local Clergy”
If the Pastors were paid from the District this would alleviate the problem of having ministers only wanted to go to certain churches. Pastors should be paid according to their tenure and education. In addition, all of the legal requirements i.e. payroll taxes, garnishments is too much for many of the local churches anyway. Just think a young pastor fresh out seminary would be more inclined to accept a struggling rural church if he/she knew that they were going to receive a true minimum salary. They would probably pastor where they are at instead of doing everything they can to be move.
Orletta Caldwell
Payne Chapel,
Colorado Springs
- To the Editor:
Thank you so much for using your editorial space as a teaching tool. I was particularly encouraged by your commentary on AME doctrine and theology printed in the December 18, 2006 edition of The Christian Recorder. Please continue to expose the ease at which we are led off into unsound doctrine just because the teacher sounds good. Be encouraged and God bless you.
Linda S. Cox
Wilson Chapel AME Church
Memphis, TN
- To the Editor:
With regard to the 200,000 "hits" -- I know I have made my contributions of "hits" on this site.
Every now and then I have to send you a "Thank you" regarding the The Christian Recorder Online. Although there are still things that should be shared that travels only the "rumor" circuit -- the reality is that The Christian Recorder Online fills a void -- related to knowing some of what is going on within our Zion. The print medium is much too dated for "news."
This vehicle, more than any other, gives me a sense of "being connected."
Thank you and keep up the good work.
The Rev. Dr. Clyde W. Oden, Jr.
Senior Pastor
Bryant Temple A.M.E. Church
3. DR. CLEMENT FUGH, GENERAL SECRETARY. MLK SPEAKER FOR FRANKFORD, KENTUCKY COMMEMORATION OF “HONORING THEIR OWN”:
Comments BY Charles Pearl
The Reverend Dr. Clement W. Fugh delivered the sermon at the Martin Luther King Jr. Community Worship Service at South Frankfort Presbyterian Church Sunday. Fugh is the General Secretary and Chief Information Officer of the African Methodist Episcopal Church.
The late Rev. K. L. Moore, a leader and civil rights activist in Frankfort for 46 years, was remembered in Sundays Martin Luther King Jr. Community Worship Service.
Nearly 170 attended the second annual event sponsored by the Frankfort-Franklin County Ministerial Association at South Frankfort Presbyterian Church.
Moore, who died in October 2006, gave the keynote address at last year’s service to honor King.
The Rev. Wallace Kent, pastor of Crestwood Baptist Church, said Moore was an unforgettable man who loved the community. "He was a very generous person, who gave more than he got." Kent said Moore was an incredible speaker and scholar, "who had a wonderful sense of humor and was down-to-earth."
Moore was "hilarious, the life of the party, and wouldn’t let us get too serious." He always encouraged other ministers, and was their friend, Kent said. Moore was "a respected leader" in the NAACP, and was "very active in the ministerial association" and served as its president, Kent said.
The Rev. Jack Brewer, pastor of First United Methodist Church and president of the local ministerial association, presented a plaque in appreciation and memory of Moore. Bessie Redden, a member of First Baptist Church on Clinton Street where Moore was pastor, accepted the plaque on behalf of the church and Moore’s widow, Sara.
Moore marched with King in Frankfort in 1964 during the Civil Rights movement.
Kent said one of the highlights of his days at the Southern Theological Seminary in Louisville was to hear King speak passionately in the campus chapel.
"There is something about the black pastor, the black leader," Kent said. "They seem to get a hold of God and it just carries you along as you listen to their oratory how they can put things in such unforgettable words."
The Rev. David Hinson, pastor of First Baptist Church on St. Clair Street, gave a prayer, using some of King's words.
King had said, "Lord, I hope no one will have to die as a result of our struggle for freedom in Montgomery (Ala). Certainly I don’t want to die but if anyone has to die, let it be me."
Hinson said the congregation then shouted, "No. No."
"But King later wrote that this prayer brought great relief to him because he felt God beside him, and he did not fear to die," Hinson said. "It was as though he had told the forces of evil in the universe "Kill me if you will. But the forces of light shall never cease to struggle for righteousness."
King was assassinated in Memphis in 1968.
Dr. Clement W. Fugh, General Secretary and Chief Information Officer of the African Methodist Episcopal Church, was Sunday’s keynote speaker.
Fugh, who works in Nashville, Tenn., said when America was "just out of segregation and embarking upon integration, sensitivity training was sweeping the country."
The sensitivity training session the forerunner of the diversity seminar gave people of different races an opportunity to closely interact, he said.
"After several days of intimate association, many myths, suspicions and stereotypes that we held about each other were laid to rest," Fugh said. "We realized after a full day of activity, all of Go’s children have bad breath and body odor," bringing laughter in the audience.
Speaking about life in America today, Fugh said more human togetherness is needed to eliminate stereotyping. "Everybody should have equal access to affordable education," he said. "Nobody in this rich country of ours should have to make a choice between medication, groceries or rent. And paying a decent wage for an honest days work just sounds like the right thing to do."
Fugh has a master’s degree from Boston University School of Theology and a doctorate from United Theological Seminary.
At a reception after the service, Bill Kirkland, who sang in the South Frankfort Presbyterian Church choir, said it was great to have a large gathering of people from many different churches.
Church leaders "came together to make an eloquent statement about one of the 20th century’s greatest champions of human freedom and nonviolent methods to deal with prejudice," Kirkland said.
4. A WISH FOR THE NEW YEAR FOR SMALL AND RURAL AME CONGREGATIONS:
By George R. La Sure, D.Min
Here we are, witnesses well into the first month of the New Year in African Methodism and hopefully we are still faithful to the spirit of our resolutions. We have offered resolutions of various sorts bent toward the accomplishment and fulfillment of useful stated goals. At the corporate, as well as the individual, level we have had a great tendency to sail toward the shores of non-fulfillment, more so than arriving at the dock of fulfillment. A significant question for a brand new year would be “what do we have a resolve to do?” Without a clearly identifiable path and direction, we are likely to expend, needlessly, a lot of useful denominational energy.
From the perspective of this writer, an experienced and credentialed rural and small membership church pastor, the first recommendation might be offered that we begin to pursue policies and strategies that will be of immediate benefit and relief to the rural and small membership church which, right now, is struggling to stay afloat in the high seas of budgetary inequity and despair. As it strives to keep from breaking up under the pressure of the mounting waves of disparate budgetary assessment, the captain and the crew are desperately throwing excess baggage overboard. There is a need, right now, to change course toward the peaceful shores of budgetary adjustment.
In order for the rural and small membership church to survive and stay afloat in the midst of a raging sea, it must receive some clear signal from the denominational flagship. It needs a clear statement of budgetary review and adjustment in order that it might assure the crew that the storm is passing over. It needs to receive a clear sense of direction as to what its continuing ministry focus ought to be: whether to flounder and perish in the high seas of budgetary inequity or, to pick up steam and head for bright new horizons and endless church growth possibilities.
As we venture forth into another year, it is a time for the denomination to consider breathing new life into the main artery of its existence, the rural and small membership church, by envisioning a comprehensive denominational re-alignment of budgetary assessments in accordance with existing church population and the demonstrated ability to pay. A timely infusion of fresh air (budgetary re-alignment) might do more to quicken the zeal for the continuing spread of African Methodism than any other single act. The AMEC growth and realignment fabric over the past 25-50 years warrants a comprehensive re-visitation to its overall plan for financial stability. Yesterday’s formula might not be good enough for the reality of today’s denominational stratification.
The second recommendation relates to an ever-present need for pastors of rural and small membership churches to have access to affordable health benefits. Many rural and small membership church pastors are forced to maintain full-time employment in secular capacities in order to provide health care benefits for themselves and, for their families, thereby reducing their availability and effectiveness as pastors. A denominational buy-in to some affordable health care plan would provide an opportunity for so many to access health care coverage, at affordable prices.
Finally, as we look back over the totality of our existence, we have been confronted with many challenges in the past, but the record speaks to our having risen to each occasion and, having mastered the challenge at hand. Today’s challenge is just another bump in the road toward the actualization of our faith: the breathing of new life into the rural and small membership church.
5. PRESIDENT DR. DANIEL W. JACOBS, SR., ANNOUNCES 113TH FOUNDERS’ DAY CELEBRATION THEME: “MINISTERING TO THE MARGINALIZED”:
*Rev. Edrena Houston Brown, M.A.C.E., Christian Recorder, Staff Writer
The 113th Founders’ Day Celebration of Turner Theological Seminary at the Interdenominational Theological Center, Atlanta, Georgia will convene on Monday February 5, 2007 through Thursday, February 8, 2007. Alumni, clergy, students and laypersons from across the A.M.E. Church will be in attendance. President Daniel W. Jacobs, President of Turner Theological Seminary, The Right Reverend William P. DeVeaux, Presiding Prelate of the Sixth Episcopal District and Dr. Pam DeVeaux serves as the Episcopal Supervisor, cordially invite everyone to attend this memorable occasion.
The theme this year is ”Ministering To The Marginalized” and according to President Jacobs; “Founders’ Day will consist of excellent preachers, lectures and panelists to inspire and guide us as we contemplate the future of theological education at our institution.” The Founders’ Day celebration will commence on Monday, February 5, 2007 with the Student Welcome Worship Service and conclude with The Illustrious Bishop C. Garnet Henning, Presiding Prelate of the Eight Episcopal District as the Keynote preacher of the hour. The Trustee Board Meeting will convene at 2:00 p.m., following the worship service.
The Election of Alumni Officers for the National Alumni Association will be held on Tuesday, February 6, 2007 at 10:00 a.m., at Turner Seminary, following Alumni Activities and the Alumni Worship Service at 7:00 p.m., at Flipper Temple A.M.E. Church, the Rev. Augusta Hall, M.Div., host pastor and The preacher of the hour, the Rev. Ellis I. Washington, M.Div., Pastor of Saint Matthew A.M.E. Church, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania of the First Episcopal District, where the Right Reverend Richard F. Norris is the presiding prelate and Mrs. Mary Norris, is the Episcopal Supervisor.
The Reverend Kenneth Marcus, pastor of Turner Chapel A.M.E. Church, Marietta, Georgia will be the preacher for the Henry McNeal Turner Image Awards Service on Wednesday, February 7, 2007 at 7:00 p.m. in the ITC Franklin Auditorium.
President Jacobs is appealing for the financial support of $500.00 dollars or more from Alumni members, pastors, and laity in receiving offerings and contributions during the month January for Turner Theological Seminary. However, any amount given will be appreciated. President Jacobs is asking that you indicate what amount is for school operation and/or debt retirement. Checks should be payable to: Turner Theological Seminary, 702 Martin Luther King, Jr., Drive, Southwest, Atlanta, Georgia 30314.
The community is cordially invited to attend.
*Rev. Edrena Houston Brown, M.A.C.E. is a staff writer for the Christian Recorder
6. MLK DAY SHOULD BE CELEBRATED BY CONTINUING WORK FOR JUSTICE:
*The Rev. Joseph A. Darby
A friend and colleague of mine regularly celebrates the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. holiday by doing something that she might not have been able to do before the societal changes caused by his work. I decided to adopt her strategy and do something on King Day 2007 that would have been difficult for a black South Carolinian to do 40 years ago - send a few thoughts to a Southern daily newspaper, with a reasonable chance that they'll be published. I especially offer those thoughts to those who will plan King Day 2008 celebrations.
Many King Day celebrations now emphasize "a day on, not a day off," and offer citizens the chance to serve their communities through repairing homes, schools, parks, sidewalks and the like in struggling communities.
King Day remembrances also include parades, prayer and worship events, breakfasts, dinners and similar activities to affirm respect for the diversity that ultimately strengthens our nation, state and community. I strongly support the idea that King Day should not be a trivially spent holiday, and I do appreciate and commend the many activities that celebrate Dr. King's legacy. We should also, however, remember and carry on Dr. King's work, for his work led to his legacy.
Many "respected" public voices in the '50s and '60s - voices that have now been lost in the sterilizing fog of the passage of time - did not celebrate Dr. King's work. They instead criticized and condemned him as a troublemaker, agitator and insurrectionist who was demanding "too much too soon" at best, and who was threatening the "American way of life" at worst. They didn't offer that stinging and demeaning criticism or kill him because Dr. King was repairing homes, schools, parks, sidewalks and the like in struggling communities.
They condemned and killed him for demanding by nonviolent means - including marches, sit-ins, and prayers in public places - that the legal and tacit rules of segregation in America be changed so that all Americans could enjoy the blessings of freedom and equality. Dr. King worked as a nonviolent but relentless warrior to change discriminatory laws, to advocate for victims of discrimination and to challenge the conscience of an America that still claims to be "One nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all."
If we are to celebrate Dr. King's work as well as his legacy in our time, then our King Day celebrations and our daily work should go beyond events where we celebrate the blessing of caring diversity, but never challenge the cultural, educational and economic inequities that still exist today.
We have to walk in the footsteps of the "drum major for justice" who said, "I have a dream that my four little children will one day live in a nation where they will not be judged by the color of their skin but by the content of their character," but who also said in the same speech, "America has given the Negro people a bad check, a check which has come back marked insufficient funds.
We must advocate for public policies that acknowledge and alleviate the remaining shreds of our national, state and local legacy of discrimination, while challenging those who use Dr. King's words about "color of skin and content of character" to justify the arbitrary political neglect of any segment of our society. We must assure that no one uses the legacy of Dr. King - a man of faith who spoke words of aggressive healing - to justify policies that divide. That's especially true for those who use words of faith not as a bridge to understanding but as a rhetorical rope to pull people apart. People of good will must work together on a consistent basis to say that intolerance and inequality are unacceptable, to demand and work for cultural, educational and economic well being and excellence in every community, and to make sure that those who would seek to trample on Dr. King's work, tear communities apart and maintain or create pockets of suffering and inequity, regardless of color or culture, will not be afforded that opportunity.
I commend all who celebrate Dr. King's legacy, but I also hope that we'll remember and continue Dr. King's authentic work for freedom, justice and equality. Serving struggling communities by repairing homes, schools, parks, sidewalks and the like is commendable. If we are, however, to celebrate Dr. King's legacy by carrying on his work, then we also have to ask why we still have struggling communities riddled by social, educational and economic inequity in 21st century America.
We can then honor Dr. King by working for the positive political, educational, economic and cultural changes that will eradicate struggling communities and move us down the road to equality.
*The Reverend Joseph A. Darby is senior pastor of Morris Brown African Methodist Episcopal Church.
7. AME CHURCH, SOUTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF JUVENILE JUSTICE AND FRIENDS OF JUVENILE JUSTICE UNITE TO AID YOUTH:
*Benjamin Harrison
Thursday November 30th, 2006 at 10:30 AM, the African Methodist Episcopal (AME) Church, the South Carolina Department of Juvenile Justice (SCDJJ), and the Friends of Juvenile Justice (FJJ) held a joint press conference in the Capital Room of the Radisson Hotel & Conference Center at 2100 Bush River Road in Columbia, SC. This press conference announced a $100,000 dollar pledge being awarded from Bishop Preston W. Williams II, on behalf of the Seventh District of the AME Church (South Carolina), to a civilian component of the AME-DJJ partnership named Friends of Juvenile Justice (FJJ). This AME donation will serve as foundational funds for the building of a Community Connections Center at the DJJ Institutional Complex on Broad River Road in Columbia, SC. This Center, which costs an estimated 3.2 million dollars to build, 1.2 million of which the DJJ has raised to date, will allow for more private family visitation, enhanced treatment and provide a transitional living area for youth being paroled back into South Carolina’s communities.
According to Bishop Williams, “There is no greater gift we can give than our time, energy, resources and love to those who have lost their way. It is our responsibility as Christians and citizens of South Carolina to assist those who are in need. As opposed to locking the door and throwing away the key, we propose encouragement, support and rehabilitation. In helping troubled youth, we help ourselves.”
The featured speakers were Bishop Preston W. Williams II, presiding prelate of the more than 600 AME Churches in South Carolina; William Byars Jr., Director of the South Carolina Department of Juvenile Justice; Dr. Karry Guillory, DJJ Deputy Director for Community Services; and Bob Staton and Clente Flemming, Board Members of Friends of Juvenile Justice.
During the press conference Judge Byars addressed the need for all citizens within South Carolina to become actively involved in helping the thousands of at-risk youth who are a part of the DJJ system and who need guidance and mentoring. To accomplish this he touched on a component of the AME-DJJ partnership which is the training of ordinary citizens to become Auxiliary Probation Officers (APO’s) who provide one on one supervision, encouragement and support for juveniles who are on probation. APO’s are volunteers who receive extensive training, are commissioned by the Family Court, work closely with the DJJ County staff and are assigned cases where they supervise juveniles until their court orders are completed.
Another component is the joint AME-DJJ Teen After School (TASC) program. This award winning TASC program is now in its third year and served as the catalyst for the July 2004 AME-DJJ formal partnership. The TASC program seeks to enhance its participants’ coping skills; increase academic, vocational and employment skills; and build on the competencies of juveniles and their families. The TASC program seeks to provide educational support and after school tutoring; development of employment skills and assistance with job placement; increased contact between youth and positive adult role models; spiritual development; community service and victim restoration; parenting groups; recreation; life skills development; and conflict resolution and anger management. There are currently three AME TASC centers which are located in Greenville, Lexington, and Georgetown, SC. Several additional sites are in the planning process and will be established as funds become available.
*Benjamin Harrison is the Public Relations Director for the 7th District AME ChurchTel 803.935.0500 ext 107Cell 803.528.7104Fax 803.935.0830HarrisonAMEMedia@aol.com
8. BISHOP WILLIAMS ADVANCES CHRISTIAN EDUCATION IN THE 7TH DISTRICT:
*Benjamin Harrison
In keeping with his bold and progressive theological education program for the Seventh District of the African Methodist Episcopal Church, Bishop Preston W. Williams II, presiding prelate and President of the Council of Bishops, again brought Payne Theological Seminary from Wilberforce, Ohio to Columbia, South Carolina to conduct an institute on, “The Power & Mystery of Preaching & Ministry.” Bishop Williams enlisted Dr. Leah Gaskin Fitchue, President of Payne Theological Seminary and the first woman to serve as president of any historically black theological seminary in the U.S., to serve as dean of the institute. Bishop Williams established the agenda focusing on, “The Power & Mystery of: Preaching, Prophetic Leadership, Biblical Interpretation, Spiritual Formation, and the Providence of History,” and Dr. Fitchue assembled a powerful team of servant scholars to address those various subjects and engage the individuals who attended the institute.
From Wednesday November 29th to Friday December 2nd, 2006, nearly 1,000 members of AME clergy and laity gathered at the Radisson Hotel & Convention Center in Columbia, SC to participate in the Payne Theological Seminary Institute. This educational event was hosted by Presiding Elder James Glover of the Lancaster District in the Columbia Conference, and Rev. Norvel Goff Sr., pastor of Reid Chapel AME Church in Columbia, SC. The cost was $25 dollars to attend up to six classes, four of which offered inter-active work shops. Additionally, participants who completed four courses received a Certificate of Completion from the Seventh Episcopal District, and those who attended all six classes earned continuing education credits from Payne Theological Seminary.
Wednesday evening Dr. Fitchue set the tone for the institute by delivering the opening keynote address entitled, “The Power & Mystery of Prophetic Leadership.” She inspired the crowd of Christian teachers and students with thoughts and concepts at the cutting edge of liberation theology. Dr. Fitchue stated that upon the completion of the institute, she was overwhelmed by the countless individuals who approached her to thank her saying, “I didn’t know I could be so hungry for knowledge,” and, “The issues we explored here are essential and relevant because they are the same issues we are discussing at our local churches,” and, “Many pastors are being awoken on the inside!” She further explained that, “Payne Theological Seminary was born out of a liberating theology and many of the institute’s participants were being delivered from a form of bondage resulting from the absence of knowledge. Payne offers the antidote to what Dr. Cornell West, acclaimed professor of religion and African American studies at Princeton University, calls ‘Nihilism,’ which is a state of meaninglessness, hopelessness and lovelessness. Through the acquisition of this transformational knowledge individuals are equipped with greater levels of meaning, hope and love which empowers them to better handle their daily existence. I am grateful to Bishop Williams for having introduced these institutes to the Seventh Episcopal District and for having afforded me the opportunity to serve as dean.”
The scholars who taught at the Payne Theological Seminary Institute were assembled from the east to west coast. Dr. Cain Hope Felder, Director of the PhD Program at the Howard University School of Divinity in Washington, DC, taught, “The Power and Mystery of Biblical Interpretation.” Dr. Jackie Grant Collier, Callaway Professor of Systematic Theology at Turner Theological Seminary in Atlanta, GA, taught, “The Power and Mystery of Theology.” Dr. William Augman, Assistant Professor of Sociology of Religion at Payne Theological Seminary, taught, “The power and Mystery of Spiritual Formation.” Dr. Fred Wright, Professor of Homiletics and Adjunct Professor at Payne Theological Seminary, taught, “The Power and Mystery of Preaching.” Dr. Sandra Blair, Adjunct Professor in Field Education at the Pacific School of Religion in Berkeley, CA, taught, “The Power and Mystery of the Providence of History.”
The next theological institute is planned for April 19-21, 2007 at the Radisson Hotel and Convention Center in Columbia, SC. For more information please contact Ms. Kabrina Bass, Seventh Episcopal District Christian Education Director, at 803.935.0500 or at adminchristianed@ame7.org .
*Benjamin Harrison is the Public Relations Director for the 7th District AME ChurchTel 803.935.0500 ext 107Cell 803.528.7104Fax 803.935.0830HarrisonAMEMedia@aol.com
9. NEWS FROM AROUND THE AME CHURCH:
- The Rev. Granville R. Anderson, III transferred from the 11th Episcopal District to the 9th Episcopal District. Rev. Anderson was transferred from St. James A.M.E. Church, Plymouth, Florida to St. James African Methodist Episcopal Church, Ozark, Alabama, South Alabama Conference. Sunday January 21, 2007 will be his 1st Sunday at his new appointment.
- Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church 1300 Druid Hill Avenue, Baltimore, Maryland, The Rev. Dr. Frank Madison Reid, III is Pastor will present a Wealth Transfer Seminar and Weekend, Friday - Sunday, January 26-28th. Call the Church to register at (410) 523-4273
-The Pre-Super Bowl Community Program will be held at Macedonia A.M.E. Church, Boca Raton, Florida on Sunday, January 28, 2007 at 4:00 p.m., Rev. William E. Cooper, Jr., Pastor. Come and be blessed!
-Turner Theological Seminary, Atlanta, Georgia will observe its Annual Founders' Day Celebration on February 6-8 on the I.T.C. Center, Atlanta, Georgia. Dr. Daniel W. Jacobs, Sr., President; Bishop William DeVeaux, Presiding Bishop.
-Shorter College of the A.M.E. Church, 12th Episcopal District is currently enrolling students for the academic and Computer Certification Courses, located North Little Rock, Arkansas. For further information contact the at (501) 374-6305
Registrar ShorterCollegeRegistrar@Hotmail.com
- Samuel Chapel African Methodist Episcopal Church, Mobile Alabama of the Ninth Episcopal District, will celebrate their Founders' Day celebration on Sunday, January 28, 2007 at 11:00 a.m., Rev. W. E. Marshall, M. Div., is the pastor. The community is cordially invited to attend.
- “Christmas Around the AME Church” was celebrated at St. John (Birmingham, AL) on Sunday, December 17, 2006. The youth of the Christian Debutante-Master Commission of St. John selected an Episcopal District and decorated a display board with the information they researched about the bishop, supervisors, location of episcopal districts, annual conferences, and interesting facts about episcopal districts. Various foods were prepared that represented what people ate in various districts. The youth were very excited by the information that they discovered about the bishops, supervisors and other officers in the AME Church.
10. THE AFRICAN METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH GATHERED TO PRAY FOR THE 110TH CONGRESS:
Written by Aisha Karimah
Metropolitan African Methodist Episcopal Church
On Thursday, January 4th, following the swearing in and convening of the 110th Congress of the United States, Bishops, Clergy, members and friends from around the connection of The African Methodist Episcopal Church assembled at the historic Cathedral of African Methodism, Metropolitan African Methodist Episcopal Church to salute, congratulate and pray for the Congressional Black Caucus and its Chair, The Honorable, Carolyn Cheeks Kilpatrick, Representative from Michigan. Metropolitan’s Pastor Rev. Ronald E. Braxton opened the service with a special “call to worship”.
Dr. Elsie Scott, Interim President of the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation, Inc. and member of Metropolitan’s Senior Board of Stewards extended a heartfelt and sincere welcome, saying that Metropolitan African Methodist Episcopal Church was the perfect setting for this momentous service. Recalling Metropolitan’s rich history, Dr. Scott says, that history continues with this significant service.
The Right Reverend Adam J. Richardson, Presiding Bishop, Second Episcopal District, also acknowledged the significance of the evening and expressed his delight, “to offer our denominational word of congratulations and commendations on your election and re-election to serve the people of the United States and of your particular districts”. Directing his comments to the members of the Congressional Black Caucus, Bishop Richardson said, “You were asked here tonight to spend a few minutes away from the nation’s heavy agenda, not just for fellowship, but also for prayer.” He noted, “that the African Methodist Episcopal Church has a long history of political engagement with more than a passing interest in peace and justice.”
Senior Bishop of the African Methodist Episcopal Church, The Right Reverend Philip R. Cousin, Presiding Bishop, Fourth Episcopal District expressed great delight in being present, as he made a special presentation to the Caucus Chair. Bishop Cousin recognized Rep. Kilpatrick as “a church going, prayer meeting AME member from his District”. With great joy and historical significance, Bishop Cousin acknowledged another dedicated member of the AME church, who is the third most powerful person in the United House of Representatives, Congressional Black Caucus member, The Honorable James Clyburn, Representative, South Carolina.
Acknowledging the importance of this service being held at the historic Metropolitan African Methodist Episcopal Church, Rep. Clyburn drew thunderous applause when he said, “his back was covered by the full African Methodist Episcopal Church.” Rep Clyburn also noted the significance of five Congressional Black Caucus members now serving as Chairs of major Congressional committees and twenty-two or twenty-three CBC members serving as Chairs of Congressional subcommittees. In introducing the Congressional Black Caucus Chair, Rep Clyburn called Rep. Kilpatrick, “an effective leader” who, according to Rep. Clyburn, “reaches out and gets out of each person, the best that is in them.”
The Honorable Carolyn Cheeks Kilpatrick, Representative, Michigan, Chair, Congressional Black Caucus Chair received a standing ovation and immediately offered, “all the praise to my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ”, saying that as members of Congress, “our job is to take care of the least of these, as Jesus did”. Thanking her Bishop, The Right Reverend Philip R. Cousin, Rep. Kilpatrick said she was born into the African Methodist Episcopal Church and will always be AME. She introduced members of the Congressional Black Caucus present, who included Rep. James E. Clyburn, 6th District, South Carolina, Rep. Alcee L. Hastings, 23rd District, Florida, Rep. Gregory W. Meeks, 6th District, New York, Rep. G. K. Butterfield, Jr., 1st District, North Carolina, Rep. Al Green, 9th District, Texas, and D.C. Delegate Eleanor Holmes Norton. Rep. Kilpatrick pointed out, “African Americans provided the margin of victory that made us win the House and the Senate” and said that the Caucus theme is “Change Course”. “We must speak out”, she said, “donate to something, confront the crisis that we face and continue the legacy that our people started”.
The service continued with prayers for the President of the United States by The Right Revered Richard Norris, Presiding Bishop, First Episcopal District. The Right Reverend McKinley Young, Presiding Bishop, Eleventh Episcopal District prayed for the United States. And, Rev. John White prayed for the 110th Congress.
Before the service ended, The Social Action Commission of the African Methodist Episcopal Church presented a special plaque to Rep. Kilpatrick. Ms. Annette Jones of the Washington Conference made the presentation on behalf of Commission Chair, The Right Reverend Carolyn Guidry, Presiding Bishop, Sixteenth Episcopal District.
The evening ended with a fellowship reception.
11. NCC, CHURCH LEADERS RESPOND TO THE PRESIDENT’S PLAN FOR MORE TROOPS IN IRAQ:
New York City, January 17, 2007 – “It is time, not to send more troops, but to start bringing our troops home,” says the National Council of Churches of Christ in the USA (NCC) following President George W. Bush’s plan for the Iraq war.
“The ‘surge’ as recommended by the president is immoral. What we do not need is an assertion of more military strength. What we need is the strength of basic moral conviction,” says the statement posted on the NCC website (complete statement below).
Leaders of some of the NCC’s 35 member churches also have expressed positions opposing more troops.
The Rev. John H. Thomas, general minister and president of the United Church of Christ said, in part, “The growing violence in Iraq, the enormous suffering being experienced by the citizens of Iraq, and the anguish of countless American families who have lost beloved sons and daughters to death and horrific injury calls for profound lament and repentance, not for stubborn commitment to the unilateralism and militarism that has been the hallmark of our failed policy in Iraq. That is why the President’s speech is not only politically disappointing, but morally deficient as well.”
“Our country must engage diplomatically not only the U.N., European Union and Russia, but all the nations in the Middle East, including Iran and Syria,” the Most Rev. Katharine Jefferts Schori, presiding bishop and primate of the Episcopal Church said. “Diplomacy, built on a foundation of mutual respect and interest among people of good will, not more troops, can bring an end to this tragic conflict.”
“The message of Jesus ‘to love your enemy,’ from the Gospel of Matthew 5:44, is inconsistent with military action. Jesus’ words instead move us toward peaceful methods, diplomacy, moral suasion, nonviolent sanctions, and international cooperation to address violence and aggression,” wrote Stanley J. Noffsinger, general secretary, Church of the Brethren General Board.
“The Church of the Brethren has called on its members to pray and give witness to the sin of violence, and has petitioned the federal government of the United States, the United Nations, and other nations and groups to seek peace by taking action to bring troops home from Iraq,” wrote Noffsinger. “Also, we have called on religious leaders from all faiths who preach violence to consider the things that truly make for peace. The wisdom of the scriptures, in the book of Jonah, provides direction: ‘Let everyone call urgently on God. Let them give up their evil ways and their violence’ (Jonah 3:8).
The Rev. Jim Winkler, general secretary, United Methodist General Board of Church and Society, said, “We call upon the U.S. Congress to oppose the President’s decision to send more troops to Iraq by withholding funds to escalate the war. We further urge Congress not to provide any additional money to continue the war this year. Congress should provide funding only to bring U.S. troops home and to aid in rebuilding Iraq.”
Winkler urged “United Methodists to join ‘America Says NO More Troops,’ www.americansayno.org and to participate in the January 27 rally in Washington to end the war in Iraq. Please visit www.unitedforpeace.org for more ways to stop this war expansion. And please pray for peace in Iraq.”
The NCC is America’s oldest ecumenical voice comprising 35 member communions with 45 million members in 100,000 congregations across the USA
12. STATEMENT OF THE NATIONAL COUNCIL OF CHURCHES OF CHRIST IN THE USA ON THE BUILD UP OF MORE U.S. TROOPS IN IRAQ:
President George W. Bush has ordered a “surge” in troops in Iraq, ostensibly to help quell sectarian violence and stabilize Baghdad. This escalation of troop presence is likely only to result in an escalation in American and Iraqi deaths. Thus the call for more troops is morally unsupportable.
Particularly in the wake of the barbaric execution of Saddam Hussein – an act that reflects not the ideals of democracy and justice, but rather mocks them – and an act that promises only to breed more violence, as only a violent act can – one would think that the United States would immediately seek to bring about a change of policy. Sending more troops is not a change in policy, nor is it even a change in strategy; it is more of the same.
Certainly a change in policy was what the November election results were all about. And certainly a change in policy was the bottom-line recommendation of the Iraq Study Group (ISG), a collection of men and women chosen for their collective expertise and wisdom. Instead, the president has chosen to ignore both the electorate and the ISG.
Given a chance to build broad consensus on a change of policy under the cover of the ISG Report, we have the makings of yet another divisive debate on whether or not the U.S. should put more lives in harm’s way. It seems that we are fated never to learn an important lesson of the Vietnam era - that U.S. leadership in the world does not depend on the continuation of failed policies - a lesson that became crystal clear during our recent funeral recollections of President Gerald Ford and his leadership.
It is time for moral strength, not military power, to take precedence in the U.S. plan for Iraq.
It is time to recognize the failure of a military policy that is not promoting freedom, not ending terrorism, not building up the Iraqi nation, not bringing security to the region, and not making the world safer.
It is time - and here we agree with the president - to insist on political benchmarks for the Iraqi government, and to provide reconstruction aid to the Iraqi people, if it is not already too late. But the benchmarks must be achievable, and this time the disbursement of aid must be transparent.
It is time to enter into respectful negotiations with those countries in the region that can exert influence on Iraq; to attend to the central issue of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict; and to lead the United Nations Security Council in enforcing restrictions on arms proliferation in the region.
And above all, it is time, not to send more troops, but to start bringing our troops home.
The “surge” as recommended by the president is immoral. What we do not need is an assertion of more military strength. What we need is the strength of basic moral conviction.
We make this statement in the spirit of the message last November from our member churches meeting in their annual General Assembly whose theme was, “...for the healing of the nations.” (Revelation 22:2).
13. THE CHAPLAINS CORNER - JONAH TRIED TO RUN AWAY FROM NINEVEH, AME CHAPLAIN MARK CISCO WENT AND PASSED OUT BIBLES IN THE HEART OF NINEVEH:
Mosul, Iraq
Story by SPC Darryl Bentley, Chaplain Assistant, 352 CSB
Photo by SGT. Charles Sebok, Chaplain Assistant, 352 CSB
Chaplain Mark Cisco, Battalion Chaplain, 352 CSB
The Bible has survived throughout the ages. God teaches “Heaven and earth will pass away; but my words will never pass away”. (Matthew 24:35) The word of God transcends race and geographical locations. In the heart of Mosul, Iraq, a country that is predominately Islam, a commander of one Iraqi battalion requested for a Bible translated in Arabic. The 352 Corps Support Battalion Unit Ministry Team (UMT) did not have Bible translated in Arabic in their inventory. They communicated this need to Chaplain Rachael Coggins, the 642 Group Chaplains in Atlanta, Georgia. Chaplain Coggins purchased two Bibles in Arabic and mailed them to her UMT in Mosul, Iraq.
Upon receiving the Bibles, we met with LTC Mohammed Ibrihim Belal, commander of the Iraqi Army 2/2/2/ Battalion and presented both Bibles to him. LTC Mohammed was very happy to receive the Bibles in a language we could read and clearly understand.
The 352 Corps Support Battalion UMT is directly responsible for over 1000 soldiers. That religious coverage includes leading chapel services, counseling and weekly education events for soldiers and Department of Defense civilians that live here on Forward Operating Base (FOB) Morez. We never dreamed we would have the golden opportunity to provide Bibles to such an important Iraqi Army leader.
We often hear politicians and various voices in the media speak of “winning the hearts and minds” of the Iraqi people, and it is small moment like providing Bibles that will help plant the seeds of trust and love in the minds of our Iraqi friends. We never know how God will use us beyond our comfort zones or in whose hands those Bibles will end, but God had promised us in Isaiah 55:11 that his “word will not return unto Him void” Our job is to sow the seed of love and kindness and allow God’s mighty spirit to water those seeds and see them to the harvest. God used us to touch the life an Iraqi commander and possibly anyone who may the read the Bible in Arabic translation.
*Permission to publish granted by the UMT Office, 352 CSB, Mosul, Iraq.
14. THE CHAPLAINS CORNER - SENIOR LEADER CHOOSES SERVANT-HOOD:
Mosul, Iraq
Story by SPC Darryl Bentley, 352 CSB, Chaplain Assistant
Mark Cisco, 352 CSB Battalion Chaplain
On 31 December 2006 a call was extended from the pulpit of Liberty Gospel Church to accept the “invitation to Christian Discipleship” following the preached word. The call did not fall on deaf ears. LTC Darryl Burton, Executive Office of the 399th Combat Support Hospital responded. When interviewed by Pastor/Chaplain Cisco, Brother Burton expressed his desire to be baptized and then they prayed together.
After praying, times were settled upon to meet and study together over the scriptural teaching of baptism. Scripture teaches that baptism is the outward sign of the inward commitment to follow Jesus Christ and to serve Him. Baptism symbolizes dying to the selfish, inner desires of the flesh and being born again into the new creature that Paul writes about in 2 Corinthians 5:17. Regardless of the position one holds in the world, the land at the foot of the cross is level and all who come there choose to be servants of the Most-high God.
At 1200 hours on 14 January 2007 in the sanctuary of Liberty Chapel the worship tone was set as the Choir and congregation sang the familiar song Doxology. Prayers were said, the scripture was read, and the congregation testified about the blessings of God in their lives. It was then that the Liberty Gospel Church Choir sang “Take Him to the Water”; their voices could be heard throughout the sanctuary and the praises to God even rang past the concrete barriers stacked around the outside of the chapel that protect worshippers from incoming mortars. It was then that Pastor Cisco and other ministers led brother Burton to the baptismal waters.
With all the pieces in place and the heavenly hosts undoubtedly perched about the chapel, and with Pastor standing in a baptismal pool filled with water at waist level located in the back of the pulpit area; Pastor Cisco said, “Brother Burton, I baptize you in the name of the Father, in the name of the Son, and in the name of the Holy Spirit.” As Brother Burton emerged from the waters, the diverse group of worshippers made up of military personnel and Department of Defense civilians shouted praises to God. Truly this day, a leader publicly demonstrated through baptism his personal relationship with God.
15. C0-PASTOR OF GREATER ALLEN AME CATHEDRAL, ELAINE MCCOLLINS FLAKE PUBLISHES A NEW BOOK WITH JUDSON PRESS:
God in Her Midst: Preaching Healing to Wounded Women
“If preaching is to truly reach the hearts, minds and souls of African American women, preachers must employ an analysis of scripture that reconstructs the Word of God in ways that are liberating to women as well as men, and reflects the totality of the African American experience.”—From the Introduction
Preachers are under a divine imperative to provide words of comfort, encouragement, empowerment, and liberation to all people, and especially to the least of these. That’s the premise behind this powerful new resource from respected pastor and author Dr. Elaine M. Flake. In God in Her Midst, Flake crafts a womanist theology and praxis of preaching to the population most overlooked and overwhelmed in our pews: wounded women—those wounded by virtue of their gender and more particularly black women who are also wounded by virtue of their race. She offers a theological paradigm to help preachers understand and fulfill their responsibility to preach liberation and empowerment to the marginalized and hurting. She provides concrete strategies for redeeming Scripture from traditional sexism and insensitivity, and she gives direction on how to unfold in every sermon the good news that brings healing instead of more hurt. Finally, Flake offers examples from her own ministry, including sample sermons that explore the lives of misunderstood women from the Bible.
“Dr. Flake’s preaching methods are important for any pastor who is attempting to provide an atmosphere for the spiritual growth of both men and women. Her sermons are great frameworks from which preachers can glean how to do it right and powerful.” —Rev. Dr. William H. Curtis
About the author: Elaine McCollins Flake, with her husband Floyd Flake, is co-pastor of the Greater Allen A.M.E. Cathedral in Jamaica, NY where they also founded the Allen Christian School. Together they wrote African American Church Management Handbook (Judson Press).
God in Her Midst: Preaching Healing to Wounded Women
Author: Elaine M. Flake, Foreword by William H. Curtis
Edited by Kathryn Stanley
Size & Binding: 5.5" x 8.5", Trade Paper
Publication Date: March 2007
ISBN: 978-0-8170-1506-0
16. THE PASTOR’S CORNER - - THE JOY OF SACRIFICE:
*The Rev. James Moody
The kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field. When a man found it, he hid it again, and then in his joy went and sold all he had and bought that field. Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant looking for fine pearls. When he found one of great value, he went away and sold everything he had and bought it. (Matthew 13: 44-46)
The idea of sacrificing anything is foreign in today’s western culture. In the United States, Canada, or Western Europe it is believed, by many, to sacrifice anything is to somehow reduce one’s value in life or self worth. Jesus however, illuminates the joy of sacrificing to receive something of great value.
In the parable of the hidden treasure, Jesus gives us a working definition of the sacrifice. He shares how a man found something of great value “and then in his joy went and sold all he had and bought that field.” The man in our Lord’s story paid the high price gladly because of the value he received. To pay the high price gladly is what it means to sacrifice. Persons will pay more to have a certain model of luxury car because they perceive the value they receive makes paying the high price worth it.
While studying to prepare this devotional, I found myself challenged by an interpretation of the two parables that was different from all I had been taught for years. I have always understood the parables of the hidden treasure and pearl of great value to describe how we are to sell or give up all that we have to possess the kingdom of God. However when we apply Jesus’ interpretation of the parable of the wheat and weeds (vss. 24-30), we see that the man (v. 37) who is the main character represents Jesus Christ. The field (v. 38) represents the world and the good seed stands for the sons of the kingdom, the object of the man’s efforts.
When we apply these representations to the parables of the hidden treasure and pearl of great value we could read the story this way. “The kingdom of heaven is like the sons of the kingdom hidden in the world. When Jesus found them, he hid them again, and then in his joy went and gave up all he had and bought the whole world.” What a revelation. Jesus gladly sacrificed all to pay the price to have you and me – He paid the high price gladly! And that’s love.
My mother was a fantastic cook. She created Sunday meals that were truly feasts. I once heard someone ask her why she enjoyed cooking. My mother shared that she didn’t enjoy cooking at all. She said she received her joy from seeing us love the food she presented. Jesus didn’t desire the cross. He knew the pain, shame, isolation, and humiliation he would suffer. Yet Jesus says, “in his joy [He] went and sold all He had and bought that field.” Sacrifice is paying the high price gladly.
* The Rev. James M. Moody is the pastor of Quinn Chapel AME Church, 2401 S. Wabash Ave., Chicago, IL 60616
17. A PLEDGE TO RESCUE OUR YOUTH:
Dr. Maya Angelou
Young woman, young man of color; we add our voices to the voices of your ancestors who speak to you over ancient seas and across impossible mountaintops.
Come up from the gloom of national neglect,
you nave already been paid for.
Come out of the shadow of irrational prejudice,
you owe no racial debt to history.
The blood of our bodies and the prayers of
our souls have bought you a future free from
shame and bright beyond the telling of it.
We pledge ourselves and our resources to seek for you clean and well-furnished schools, safe and non-threatening streets, employment, which makes use of your talents, but does not degrade your dignity.
You are the best we have.
You are all we have.
You are what we have become.
We pledge you our whole hearts from this day forward.
18. CLERGY CONGRATULATORY NOTICE:
Episcopal Birthday Greetings!
Happy 75th Birthday blessing to Mother Irene B. Reid, the former WMS Supervisor in the 14th, 7th, 9th, 4th and 2nd Districts.
We praise God for each year He has blessed her with. We praise God for allowing us to benefit from the wisdom and joy that God has placed in her to share with others all around the world
Celebrate life each day that you live
Celebrate life by loving to give
Celebrate life by using your breath
to praise God each day
that you are alive
to Celebrate life for year 75
Editor's note: Happy Birthday, Sister Reid! Your Christmas Card came back "undeliverable."
- Presiding Elder Ward's 50th birthday. The Wrens-Vidalia District invites all in extending best wishes and happiness to Presiding Elder Richard Quinn Ward, Sr, President of the Presiding Elder's Council and Presiding Elder of the Wrens-Vidalia District, in the Sixth Episcopal District on the occasion of his 50th birthday. A 50th Birthday Jubilee Celebration is scheduled to be held in his honor in the near future. E-mails can be forwarded to pewardsixteen@yahoo.com or (912) 571-5578.
Hardcopy messages may be mailed to P.E. Ward at, P.O. Box 2303, Vidalia, Georgia 30436.
Information submitted by: The Rev. Carlos T. Young, Administrative Assistant (912) 596-8223.
19. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
Mr. Thurmond Joe Strothers passed away January 16, 2006. He was the brother-in- law of General Officer & Mrs. George F. Flowers, Dept. of Global Witness & Ministry-AMEC.
Quiet Hour/Public Viewing: Monday morning, January 22,
2007 - 10-11:00 A.M.
Funeral Service: January 22, 2007 - 11:00 AM Perry Funeral Home, Inc.
34 Mercer Street - corner of Lincoln Street Newark, New Jersey 07103
Telephone: (973) 824-9201
Fax: (973) 504-9610
Dr. Flowers (843) 297-0503
Condolences may be sent to:
Eric and Shanay Strothers
16 Elliott Place
East Orange, New Jersey 07018
20. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
Regretfully, we announce the homegoing of Mr. E. Van Burkett on Tuesday, January 16, 2007. Mr. Burkett was a long-time member of Cherry Street A.M.E.
Church in Dothan, Alabama, Dothan-Eufaula District, and served in many offices. He was a former President of the South Alabama Conference Lay Organization and Educator in the Dothan School System for many years.
Homegoing Service:
Monday, January 22, 2007
11:00 A.M.
Cherry Street A.M.E. Church
308 North Cherry Street
Dothan, AL 36302
Ph. 334-793-9664
Reverend Ulysses Kincey, Jr., Pastor
Presiding Elder David E. Reddick, Eulogist
Funeral Director:
Hammond & Son Funeral Home
586 E. Burdeshaw Street
Dothan, AL 36303
Ph. 334-792-7913
Public viewing beginning at 1 P.M. Sunday, January 21, 2007
Messages Of Comfort May Be Sent To:
Mrs. Florine Burkett & Family
2904 St. Luke Street
Dothan, AL 36303
21. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
Dr. Iris Dixon Meadows went to be with the Lord on Tuesday, January 16, 2007. Dr. Meadows was a member of Handy Chapel A.M.E. Church in Gadsden, Alabama & YPD Director of the Agnes Cooper Area, North Alabama Conference, Ninth Episcopal District.
Homegoing Service:
Saturday, January 20, 2007
11:00 A.M.
Handy Chapel A.M.E Church
901 Rogers Street
Gadsden, AL 35901
Ph. 205-547-9980
Reverend James Barnett, Pastor/Eulogist
Funeral Director:
West Gadsden Funeral Home
2118 Forrest Avenue
Gadsden, AL 35904
Ph. 256-549-0004
Messages of comfort may be sent to:
Mr. Quinton Meadows & Family (Kelsey & Aaron)
1315 Merryhill Avenue
Gadsden, AL 35903-3222
Ph. 256-543-3144
22. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
Rev. Reginald Boston a Superannuated Elder of The Baltimore Annual Conference, Second Episcopal District of The African Methodist Episcopal Church, a member of Trinity African Methodist Episcopal Church after a very lengthy illness has passed from labor to eternal reward.
Service arrangements held:
Wednesday, January 17, 2007
4:00 PM - 7:00 PM
Public viewing
Trinity AME Church
2140 Hoffman Street
Baltimore, Maryland
Dr. Colin M. Lambert, Pastor
Funeral:
Thursday, January 18, 2007
Trinity AME Church
10:00 a.m. - Family Hour
11:00 AM Home Going Celebration
Submitted by:
Rev. Dr. Joan L. Wharton
Pastor, Mt. Zion AME Church
Long Green, Maryland
23. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
Dr. Louis A. DeSalle, III, passed away January 17, 2007. He was the father of Mrs. Debbie DeSalle Plummer and the father in-law of the Rev. Jimmie Plummer, Pastor of St. Luke AME Church, Gallatin, TN.
His service arrangements are as follows:
Homegoing Service at 12 noon (Mass)
Monday, January 22, 2007
Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church (Catholic)
1908 Short Street
Kinner, Louisiana 70062
(504) 464-0361
Any expressions of condolences may be sent to the Church or to the home address:
Mrs. Debbie DeSalle Plummer
4060 Yoest Drive
Nashville, TN 37207
or
Rev. and Mrs. Jimmie Plummer
St. Luke AME Church
355 North Blythe Street
Gallatin, TN 37066
Submitted by:
Rev. Ralph Johnson, Presiding Elder
Kentucky Conference, 13th Episcopal District
24. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
This communication comes to inform you of the passing of Mr. Larry Cheatham. Mr. Cheatham is the brother-in-law of the Rev. and Mrs. Wilbert Gray, pastor and 1st Lady of Quinn Chapel, Little Rock, AR.
Service arrangements:
Funeral
Saturday, January 20, 2007
12:00 noon
Cottrell C.M.E. Church
Hot Springs, AR.
Arrangements have been entrusted to:
Guinn Funeral Home
Stuttgart, Arkansas
Condolences may be sent to:
Rev. and Mrs. Wilbert Gray
170 Auriel Circle
Maumell, AR 72113
(501) 803-4342
Submitted by:
Anita Brannon
12th Episcopal District Administrative Office
25. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
Remember in prayer the Rev. and Mrs. Gregory Ball, pastor and first lady of Bethel AME Church, Easton Maryland in the loss of their unborn baby on January 16, 2007, which was due on Feb 8, 2007.
Service arrangements:
Memorial Service
Sunday, January 21, 2007
2:00 pm
Bethel A.M.E. Church
110 S. Hanson Street
Easton, Maryland 21601
The Ball Family address:
Rev. and Mrs. Gregory Ball Sr.
313 Pacific Ave.
Cambridge, Maryland 21613
Home phone: (410) 221-1804
Office phone: (410) 822-3619
Cell: 443-521-6589
Fax: (410) 221-0630
Email: reverendrevball@hotmail.com
26. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
Regretfully, we announce the homegoing of Mr. E. Van Burkett on Tuesday, January 16, 2007. Mr. Burkett was a long-time member of Cherry Street A.M.E. Church in Dothan, Alabama, Dothan-Eufaula District, and served in many offices. He was a former President of the South Alabama Conference Lay Organization and Educator in the Dothan School System for many years.
Homegoing Service:
Monday, January 22, 2007
11:00 A.M.
Cherry Street A.M.E. Church
308 North Cherry Street
Dothan, AL 36302
Ph. 334-793-9664
Reverend Ulysses Kincey, Jr., Pastor
Presiding Elder David E. Reddick, Eulogist
Funeral Director:
Hammond & Son Funeral Home
586 E. Burdeshaw Street
Dothan, AL 36303
Ph. 334-792-7913
Public viewing beginning at 1 P.M. Sunday, January 21, 2007
Messages may be sent to:
Mrs. Florine Burkett & Family
2904 St. Luke Street
Dothan, AL 36303
27. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
Dr. Iris Dixon Meadows went to be with the Lord on Tuesday, January 16, 2007. Dr. Meadows was a member of Handy Chapel A.M.E. Church in Gadsden, Alabama & YPD Director of the Agnes Cooper Area, North Alabama Conference, Ninth Episcopal District.
Homegoing Service:
Saturday, January 20, 2007
11:00 A.M.
Handy Chapel A.M.E Church
901 Rogers Street
Gadsden, AL 35901
Ph. 205-547-9980
Reverend James Barnett, Pastor/Eulogist
Funeral Director:
West Gadsden Funeral Home
2118 Forrest Avenue
Gadsden, AL 35904
Ph. 256-549-0004
Messages may be sent to:
Mr. Quinton Meadows & Family (Kelsey & Aaron)
1315 Merryhill Avenue
Gadsden, AL 35903-3222
Ph. 256-543-3144
28. 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
29. 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.
The Reverend Dr. Johnny Barbour, Jr., Publisher
The Reverend Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III, Editor
1. EDITORIAL – WORDS OF DISAGREEMENT BETWEEN A BLACK PERSON AND A WHITE PERSON; BUT NOT A RACIAL INCIDENT:
Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III
Can you believe it, there were words of disagreement between a black person and a white person; and it wasn’t touted as a racial incident.
In the second week of January, there was a heated exchange between Senator Barbara Boxer and Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice. Some saw it as an attack against Secretary Rice’s single status. I am sure that some saw it as an attack of a white person (Senator Boxer) against a black person (Secretary Rice). One person lamented about the lack of response of the black community and the so-called black leaders. Though some saw the exchange as a negative; I saw it as a positive.
Let me explain. The absence of outrage in the black community was probably because the exchange was not seen as a black/white issue. Condoleezza Rice is one of the most competent persons working in the U.S. government and I am glad that black folks are not trying to make the exchange of Senator Boxer and Secretary Rice a black/white issue; it was not a racial issue. It was an issue about the war in Iraq. Senator Boxer is opposed to President Bush’s plan of increasing the number of U.S. military service members in Iraq by 21,500. Condoleezza Rice supports the President.
America has progressed significantly when we have an exchange between and white person and a black person and it is not viewed as a black white issue. I am excited and encourage; I saw the exchange and the fallout from it, as a positive.
Condoleezza Rice doesn’t need any so-called black leaders or white leaders to defend her. She has successfully transcended race and gender; the woman is good! I don’t agree with her politics, but she is good and there is no denying that. And in this instance, black and white leaders who focus on racial issues have the good sense to keep their mouths shut.
Every confrontation between a black person and a white person is not a racial incident. In the exchange between Senator Barbara Boxer and Condoleezza Rice, I took the side of Senator Boxer because her position on the war in Iraq is the moral position. I did not sympathize with Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice because I believe her support of President George Bush’s position on the war in Iraq is wrong. Sending more troops to Iraq is immoral.
And, as an aside, Senator Boxer was probably correct in postulating that if Condoleezza Rice had children who might be vulnerable to serving in Iraq, might be taking a different position on the troop increase.
I highly respect Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice because she is competent, qualified, and loyal and a woman who happens to be black who helps us to transcend the color issue because she is so qualified.
And, in this incidence, competence transcended race.
2. READER RESPONSE TO EDITORIAL AND OTHER ISSUES:
- To the Editor:
Reference editorial, “Too Many Itinerants Servings as Local Clergy”
The AME Church needs to stop ordaining those who will not serve under the identity of their status!!!! Stop awarding ordination!! Must find an ordination identity that describes the "calling" that a person is being lead, by the Holy Spirit! No law needed; must adjust and enable ministry!
I am an itinerant elder:
- I served in 2 Conferences in the Sixth Episcopal District = 3 pastoral appointments; 6 Churches {4 Church Circuit}
- I served in 4 Conferences in the 5th Episcopal District= 5 pastoral appointments; 5 Churches.
- I helped to plant two Churches: one in Missouri and one in California.
The Reverend Dr. Leslie R. White
Grant AME Church, Los Angeles
-To the Editor:
Reference editorial, ”Too Many Itinerants Servings as Local Clergy”
If the Pastors were paid from the District this would alleviate the problem of having ministers only wanted to go to certain churches. Pastors should be paid according to their tenure and education. In addition, all of the legal requirements i.e. payroll taxes, garnishments is too much for many of the local churches anyway. Just think a young pastor fresh out seminary would be more inclined to accept a struggling rural church if he/she knew that they were going to receive a true minimum salary. They would probably pastor where they are at instead of doing everything they can to be move.
Orletta Caldwell
Payne Chapel,
Colorado Springs
- To the Editor:
Thank you so much for using your editorial space as a teaching tool. I was particularly encouraged by your commentary on AME doctrine and theology printed in the December 18, 2006 edition of The Christian Recorder. Please continue to expose the ease at which we are led off into unsound doctrine just because the teacher sounds good. Be encouraged and God bless you.
Linda S. Cox
Wilson Chapel AME Church
Memphis, TN
- To the Editor:
With regard to the 200,000 "hits" -- I know I have made my contributions of "hits" on this site.
Every now and then I have to send you a "Thank you" regarding the The Christian Recorder Online. Although there are still things that should be shared that travels only the "rumor" circuit -- the reality is that The Christian Recorder Online fills a void -- related to knowing some of what is going on within our Zion. The print medium is much too dated for "news."
This vehicle, more than any other, gives me a sense of "being connected."
Thank you and keep up the good work.
The Rev. Dr. Clyde W. Oden, Jr.
Senior Pastor
Bryant Temple A.M.E. Church
3. DR. CLEMENT FUGH, GENERAL SECRETARY. MLK SPEAKER FOR FRANKFORD, KENTUCKY COMMEMORATION OF “HONORING THEIR OWN”:
Comments BY Charles Pearl
The Reverend Dr. Clement W. Fugh delivered the sermon at the Martin Luther King Jr. Community Worship Service at South Frankfort Presbyterian Church Sunday. Fugh is the General Secretary and Chief Information Officer of the African Methodist Episcopal Church.
The late Rev. K. L. Moore, a leader and civil rights activist in Frankfort for 46 years, was remembered in Sundays Martin Luther King Jr. Community Worship Service.
Nearly 170 attended the second annual event sponsored by the Frankfort-Franklin County Ministerial Association at South Frankfort Presbyterian Church.
Moore, who died in October 2006, gave the keynote address at last year’s service to honor King.
The Rev. Wallace Kent, pastor of Crestwood Baptist Church, said Moore was an unforgettable man who loved the community. "He was a very generous person, who gave more than he got." Kent said Moore was an incredible speaker and scholar, "who had a wonderful sense of humor and was down-to-earth."
Moore was "hilarious, the life of the party, and wouldn’t let us get too serious." He always encouraged other ministers, and was their friend, Kent said. Moore was "a respected leader" in the NAACP, and was "very active in the ministerial association" and served as its president, Kent said.
The Rev. Jack Brewer, pastor of First United Methodist Church and president of the local ministerial association, presented a plaque in appreciation and memory of Moore. Bessie Redden, a member of First Baptist Church on Clinton Street where Moore was pastor, accepted the plaque on behalf of the church and Moore’s widow, Sara.
Moore marched with King in Frankfort in 1964 during the Civil Rights movement.
Kent said one of the highlights of his days at the Southern Theological Seminary in Louisville was to hear King speak passionately in the campus chapel.
"There is something about the black pastor, the black leader," Kent said. "They seem to get a hold of God and it just carries you along as you listen to their oratory how they can put things in such unforgettable words."
The Rev. David Hinson, pastor of First Baptist Church on St. Clair Street, gave a prayer, using some of King's words.
King had said, "Lord, I hope no one will have to die as a result of our struggle for freedom in Montgomery (Ala). Certainly I don’t want to die but if anyone has to die, let it be me."
Hinson said the congregation then shouted, "No. No."
"But King later wrote that this prayer brought great relief to him because he felt God beside him, and he did not fear to die," Hinson said. "It was as though he had told the forces of evil in the universe "Kill me if you will. But the forces of light shall never cease to struggle for righteousness."
King was assassinated in Memphis in 1968.
Dr. Clement W. Fugh, General Secretary and Chief Information Officer of the African Methodist Episcopal Church, was Sunday’s keynote speaker.
Fugh, who works in Nashville, Tenn., said when America was "just out of segregation and embarking upon integration, sensitivity training was sweeping the country."
The sensitivity training session the forerunner of the diversity seminar gave people of different races an opportunity to closely interact, he said.
"After several days of intimate association, many myths, suspicions and stereotypes that we held about each other were laid to rest," Fugh said. "We realized after a full day of activity, all of Go’s children have bad breath and body odor," bringing laughter in the audience.
Speaking about life in America today, Fugh said more human togetherness is needed to eliminate stereotyping. "Everybody should have equal access to affordable education," he said. "Nobody in this rich country of ours should have to make a choice between medication, groceries or rent. And paying a decent wage for an honest days work just sounds like the right thing to do."
Fugh has a master’s degree from Boston University School of Theology and a doctorate from United Theological Seminary.
At a reception after the service, Bill Kirkland, who sang in the South Frankfort Presbyterian Church choir, said it was great to have a large gathering of people from many different churches.
Church leaders "came together to make an eloquent statement about one of the 20th century’s greatest champions of human freedom and nonviolent methods to deal with prejudice," Kirkland said.
4. A WISH FOR THE NEW YEAR FOR SMALL AND RURAL AME CONGREGATIONS:
By George R. La Sure, D.Min
Here we are, witnesses well into the first month of the New Year in African Methodism and hopefully we are still faithful to the spirit of our resolutions. We have offered resolutions of various sorts bent toward the accomplishment and fulfillment of useful stated goals. At the corporate, as well as the individual, level we have had a great tendency to sail toward the shores of non-fulfillment, more so than arriving at the dock of fulfillment. A significant question for a brand new year would be “what do we have a resolve to do?” Without a clearly identifiable path and direction, we are likely to expend, needlessly, a lot of useful denominational energy.
From the perspective of this writer, an experienced and credentialed rural and small membership church pastor, the first recommendation might be offered that we begin to pursue policies and strategies that will be of immediate benefit and relief to the rural and small membership church which, right now, is struggling to stay afloat in the high seas of budgetary inequity and despair. As it strives to keep from breaking up under the pressure of the mounting waves of disparate budgetary assessment, the captain and the crew are desperately throwing excess baggage overboard. There is a need, right now, to change course toward the peaceful shores of budgetary adjustment.
In order for the rural and small membership church to survive and stay afloat in the midst of a raging sea, it must receive some clear signal from the denominational flagship. It needs a clear statement of budgetary review and adjustment in order that it might assure the crew that the storm is passing over. It needs to receive a clear sense of direction as to what its continuing ministry focus ought to be: whether to flounder and perish in the high seas of budgetary inequity or, to pick up steam and head for bright new horizons and endless church growth possibilities.
As we venture forth into another year, it is a time for the denomination to consider breathing new life into the main artery of its existence, the rural and small membership church, by envisioning a comprehensive denominational re-alignment of budgetary assessments in accordance with existing church population and the demonstrated ability to pay. A timely infusion of fresh air (budgetary re-alignment) might do more to quicken the zeal for the continuing spread of African Methodism than any other single act. The AMEC growth and realignment fabric over the past 25-50 years warrants a comprehensive re-visitation to its overall plan for financial stability. Yesterday’s formula might not be good enough for the reality of today’s denominational stratification.
The second recommendation relates to an ever-present need for pastors of rural and small membership churches to have access to affordable health benefits. Many rural and small membership church pastors are forced to maintain full-time employment in secular capacities in order to provide health care benefits for themselves and, for their families, thereby reducing their availability and effectiveness as pastors. A denominational buy-in to some affordable health care plan would provide an opportunity for so many to access health care coverage, at affordable prices.
Finally, as we look back over the totality of our existence, we have been confronted with many challenges in the past, but the record speaks to our having risen to each occasion and, having mastered the challenge at hand. Today’s challenge is just another bump in the road toward the actualization of our faith: the breathing of new life into the rural and small membership church.
5. PRESIDENT DR. DANIEL W. JACOBS, SR., ANNOUNCES 113TH FOUNDERS’ DAY CELEBRATION THEME: “MINISTERING TO THE MARGINALIZED”:
*Rev. Edrena Houston Brown, M.A.C.E., Christian Recorder, Staff Writer
The 113th Founders’ Day Celebration of Turner Theological Seminary at the Interdenominational Theological Center, Atlanta, Georgia will convene on Monday February 5, 2007 through Thursday, February 8, 2007. Alumni, clergy, students and laypersons from across the A.M.E. Church will be in attendance. President Daniel W. Jacobs, President of Turner Theological Seminary, The Right Reverend William P. DeVeaux, Presiding Prelate of the Sixth Episcopal District and Dr. Pam DeVeaux serves as the Episcopal Supervisor, cordially invite everyone to attend this memorable occasion.
The theme this year is ”Ministering To The Marginalized” and according to President Jacobs; “Founders’ Day will consist of excellent preachers, lectures and panelists to inspire and guide us as we contemplate the future of theological education at our institution.” The Founders’ Day celebration will commence on Monday, February 5, 2007 with the Student Welcome Worship Service and conclude with The Illustrious Bishop C. Garnet Henning, Presiding Prelate of the Eight Episcopal District as the Keynote preacher of the hour. The Trustee Board Meeting will convene at 2:00 p.m., following the worship service.
The Election of Alumni Officers for the National Alumni Association will be held on Tuesday, February 6, 2007 at 10:00 a.m., at Turner Seminary, following Alumni Activities and the Alumni Worship Service at 7:00 p.m., at Flipper Temple A.M.E. Church, the Rev. Augusta Hall, M.Div., host pastor and The preacher of the hour, the Rev. Ellis I. Washington, M.Div., Pastor of Saint Matthew A.M.E. Church, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania of the First Episcopal District, where the Right Reverend Richard F. Norris is the presiding prelate and Mrs. Mary Norris, is the Episcopal Supervisor.
The Reverend Kenneth Marcus, pastor of Turner Chapel A.M.E. Church, Marietta, Georgia will be the preacher for the Henry McNeal Turner Image Awards Service on Wednesday, February 7, 2007 at 7:00 p.m. in the ITC Franklin Auditorium.
President Jacobs is appealing for the financial support of $500.00 dollars or more from Alumni members, pastors, and laity in receiving offerings and contributions during the month January for Turner Theological Seminary. However, any amount given will be appreciated. President Jacobs is asking that you indicate what amount is for school operation and/or debt retirement. Checks should be payable to: Turner Theological Seminary, 702 Martin Luther King, Jr., Drive, Southwest, Atlanta, Georgia 30314.
The community is cordially invited to attend.
*Rev. Edrena Houston Brown, M.A.C.E. is a staff writer for the Christian Recorder
6. MLK DAY SHOULD BE CELEBRATED BY CONTINUING WORK FOR JUSTICE:
*The Rev. Joseph A. Darby
A friend and colleague of mine regularly celebrates the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. holiday by doing something that she might not have been able to do before the societal changes caused by his work. I decided to adopt her strategy and do something on King Day 2007 that would have been difficult for a black South Carolinian to do 40 years ago - send a few thoughts to a Southern daily newspaper, with a reasonable chance that they'll be published. I especially offer those thoughts to those who will plan King Day 2008 celebrations.
Many King Day celebrations now emphasize "a day on, not a day off," and offer citizens the chance to serve their communities through repairing homes, schools, parks, sidewalks and the like in struggling communities.
King Day remembrances also include parades, prayer and worship events, breakfasts, dinners and similar activities to affirm respect for the diversity that ultimately strengthens our nation, state and community. I strongly support the idea that King Day should not be a trivially spent holiday, and I do appreciate and commend the many activities that celebrate Dr. King's legacy. We should also, however, remember and carry on Dr. King's work, for his work led to his legacy.
Many "respected" public voices in the '50s and '60s - voices that have now been lost in the sterilizing fog of the passage of time - did not celebrate Dr. King's work. They instead criticized and condemned him as a troublemaker, agitator and insurrectionist who was demanding "too much too soon" at best, and who was threatening the "American way of life" at worst. They didn't offer that stinging and demeaning criticism or kill him because Dr. King was repairing homes, schools, parks, sidewalks and the like in struggling communities.
They condemned and killed him for demanding by nonviolent means - including marches, sit-ins, and prayers in public places - that the legal and tacit rules of segregation in America be changed so that all Americans could enjoy the blessings of freedom and equality. Dr. King worked as a nonviolent but relentless warrior to change discriminatory laws, to advocate for victims of discrimination and to challenge the conscience of an America that still claims to be "One nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all."
If we are to celebrate Dr. King's work as well as his legacy in our time, then our King Day celebrations and our daily work should go beyond events where we celebrate the blessing of caring diversity, but never challenge the cultural, educational and economic inequities that still exist today.
We have to walk in the footsteps of the "drum major for justice" who said, "I have a dream that my four little children will one day live in a nation where they will not be judged by the color of their skin but by the content of their character," but who also said in the same speech, "America has given the Negro people a bad check, a check which has come back marked insufficient funds.
We must advocate for public policies that acknowledge and alleviate the remaining shreds of our national, state and local legacy of discrimination, while challenging those who use Dr. King's words about "color of skin and content of character" to justify the arbitrary political neglect of any segment of our society. We must assure that no one uses the legacy of Dr. King - a man of faith who spoke words of aggressive healing - to justify policies that divide. That's especially true for those who use words of faith not as a bridge to understanding but as a rhetorical rope to pull people apart. People of good will must work together on a consistent basis to say that intolerance and inequality are unacceptable, to demand and work for cultural, educational and economic well being and excellence in every community, and to make sure that those who would seek to trample on Dr. King's work, tear communities apart and maintain or create pockets of suffering and inequity, regardless of color or culture, will not be afforded that opportunity.
I commend all who celebrate Dr. King's legacy, but I also hope that we'll remember and continue Dr. King's authentic work for freedom, justice and equality. Serving struggling communities by repairing homes, schools, parks, sidewalks and the like is commendable. If we are, however, to celebrate Dr. King's legacy by carrying on his work, then we also have to ask why we still have struggling communities riddled by social, educational and economic inequity in 21st century America.
We can then honor Dr. King by working for the positive political, educational, economic and cultural changes that will eradicate struggling communities and move us down the road to equality.
*The Reverend Joseph A. Darby is senior pastor of Morris Brown African Methodist Episcopal Church.
7. AME CHURCH, SOUTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF JUVENILE JUSTICE AND FRIENDS OF JUVENILE JUSTICE UNITE TO AID YOUTH:
*Benjamin Harrison
Thursday November 30th, 2006 at 10:30 AM, the African Methodist Episcopal (AME) Church, the South Carolina Department of Juvenile Justice (SCDJJ), and the Friends of Juvenile Justice (FJJ) held a joint press conference in the Capital Room of the Radisson Hotel & Conference Center at 2100 Bush River Road in Columbia, SC. This press conference announced a $100,000 dollar pledge being awarded from Bishop Preston W. Williams II, on behalf of the Seventh District of the AME Church (South Carolina), to a civilian component of the AME-DJJ partnership named Friends of Juvenile Justice (FJJ). This AME donation will serve as foundational funds for the building of a Community Connections Center at the DJJ Institutional Complex on Broad River Road in Columbia, SC. This Center, which costs an estimated 3.2 million dollars to build, 1.2 million of which the DJJ has raised to date, will allow for more private family visitation, enhanced treatment and provide a transitional living area for youth being paroled back into South Carolina’s communities.
According to Bishop Williams, “There is no greater gift we can give than our time, energy, resources and love to those who have lost their way. It is our responsibility as Christians and citizens of South Carolina to assist those who are in need. As opposed to locking the door and throwing away the key, we propose encouragement, support and rehabilitation. In helping troubled youth, we help ourselves.”
The featured speakers were Bishop Preston W. Williams II, presiding prelate of the more than 600 AME Churches in South Carolina; William Byars Jr., Director of the South Carolina Department of Juvenile Justice; Dr. Karry Guillory, DJJ Deputy Director for Community Services; and Bob Staton and Clente Flemming, Board Members of Friends of Juvenile Justice.
During the press conference Judge Byars addressed the need for all citizens within South Carolina to become actively involved in helping the thousands of at-risk youth who are a part of the DJJ system and who need guidance and mentoring. To accomplish this he touched on a component of the AME-DJJ partnership which is the training of ordinary citizens to become Auxiliary Probation Officers (APO’s) who provide one on one supervision, encouragement and support for juveniles who are on probation. APO’s are volunteers who receive extensive training, are commissioned by the Family Court, work closely with the DJJ County staff and are assigned cases where they supervise juveniles until their court orders are completed.
Another component is the joint AME-DJJ Teen After School (TASC) program. This award winning TASC program is now in its third year and served as the catalyst for the July 2004 AME-DJJ formal partnership. The TASC program seeks to enhance its participants’ coping skills; increase academic, vocational and employment skills; and build on the competencies of juveniles and their families. The TASC program seeks to provide educational support and after school tutoring; development of employment skills and assistance with job placement; increased contact between youth and positive adult role models; spiritual development; community service and victim restoration; parenting groups; recreation; life skills development; and conflict resolution and anger management. There are currently three AME TASC centers which are located in Greenville, Lexington, and Georgetown, SC. Several additional sites are in the planning process and will be established as funds become available.
*Benjamin Harrison is the Public Relations Director for the 7th District AME ChurchTel 803.935.0500 ext 107Cell 803.528.7104Fax 803.935.0830HarrisonAMEMedia@aol.com
8. BISHOP WILLIAMS ADVANCES CHRISTIAN EDUCATION IN THE 7TH DISTRICT:
*Benjamin Harrison
In keeping with his bold and progressive theological education program for the Seventh District of the African Methodist Episcopal Church, Bishop Preston W. Williams II, presiding prelate and President of the Council of Bishops, again brought Payne Theological Seminary from Wilberforce, Ohio to Columbia, South Carolina to conduct an institute on, “The Power & Mystery of Preaching & Ministry.” Bishop Williams enlisted Dr. Leah Gaskin Fitchue, President of Payne Theological Seminary and the first woman to serve as president of any historically black theological seminary in the U.S., to serve as dean of the institute. Bishop Williams established the agenda focusing on, “The Power & Mystery of: Preaching, Prophetic Leadership, Biblical Interpretation, Spiritual Formation, and the Providence of History,” and Dr. Fitchue assembled a powerful team of servant scholars to address those various subjects and engage the individuals who attended the institute.
From Wednesday November 29th to Friday December 2nd, 2006, nearly 1,000 members of AME clergy and laity gathered at the Radisson Hotel & Convention Center in Columbia, SC to participate in the Payne Theological Seminary Institute. This educational event was hosted by Presiding Elder James Glover of the Lancaster District in the Columbia Conference, and Rev. Norvel Goff Sr., pastor of Reid Chapel AME Church in Columbia, SC. The cost was $25 dollars to attend up to six classes, four of which offered inter-active work shops. Additionally, participants who completed four courses received a Certificate of Completion from the Seventh Episcopal District, and those who attended all six classes earned continuing education credits from Payne Theological Seminary.
Wednesday evening Dr. Fitchue set the tone for the institute by delivering the opening keynote address entitled, “The Power & Mystery of Prophetic Leadership.” She inspired the crowd of Christian teachers and students with thoughts and concepts at the cutting edge of liberation theology. Dr. Fitchue stated that upon the completion of the institute, she was overwhelmed by the countless individuals who approached her to thank her saying, “I didn’t know I could be so hungry for knowledge,” and, “The issues we explored here are essential and relevant because they are the same issues we are discussing at our local churches,” and, “Many pastors are being awoken on the inside!” She further explained that, “Payne Theological Seminary was born out of a liberating theology and many of the institute’s participants were being delivered from a form of bondage resulting from the absence of knowledge. Payne offers the antidote to what Dr. Cornell West, acclaimed professor of religion and African American studies at Princeton University, calls ‘Nihilism,’ which is a state of meaninglessness, hopelessness and lovelessness. Through the acquisition of this transformational knowledge individuals are equipped with greater levels of meaning, hope and love which empowers them to better handle their daily existence. I am grateful to Bishop Williams for having introduced these institutes to the Seventh Episcopal District and for having afforded me the opportunity to serve as dean.”
The scholars who taught at the Payne Theological Seminary Institute were assembled from the east to west coast. Dr. Cain Hope Felder, Director of the PhD Program at the Howard University School of Divinity in Washington, DC, taught, “The Power and Mystery of Biblical Interpretation.” Dr. Jackie Grant Collier, Callaway Professor of Systematic Theology at Turner Theological Seminary in Atlanta, GA, taught, “The Power and Mystery of Theology.” Dr. William Augman, Assistant Professor of Sociology of Religion at Payne Theological Seminary, taught, “The power and Mystery of Spiritual Formation.” Dr. Fred Wright, Professor of Homiletics and Adjunct Professor at Payne Theological Seminary, taught, “The Power and Mystery of Preaching.” Dr. Sandra Blair, Adjunct Professor in Field Education at the Pacific School of Religion in Berkeley, CA, taught, “The Power and Mystery of the Providence of History.”
The next theological institute is planned for April 19-21, 2007 at the Radisson Hotel and Convention Center in Columbia, SC. For more information please contact Ms. Kabrina Bass, Seventh Episcopal District Christian Education Director, at 803.935.0500 or at adminchristianed@ame7.org .
*Benjamin Harrison is the Public Relations Director for the 7th District AME ChurchTel 803.935.0500 ext 107Cell 803.528.7104Fax 803.935.0830HarrisonAMEMedia@aol.com
9. NEWS FROM AROUND THE AME CHURCH:
- The Rev. Granville R. Anderson, III transferred from the 11th Episcopal District to the 9th Episcopal District. Rev. Anderson was transferred from St. James A.M.E. Church, Plymouth, Florida to St. James African Methodist Episcopal Church, Ozark, Alabama, South Alabama Conference. Sunday January 21, 2007 will be his 1st Sunday at his new appointment.
- Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church 1300 Druid Hill Avenue, Baltimore, Maryland, The Rev. Dr. Frank Madison Reid, III is Pastor will present a Wealth Transfer Seminar and Weekend, Friday - Sunday, January 26-28th. Call the Church to register at (410) 523-4273
-The Pre-Super Bowl Community Program will be held at Macedonia A.M.E. Church, Boca Raton, Florida on Sunday, January 28, 2007 at 4:00 p.m., Rev. William E. Cooper, Jr., Pastor. Come and be blessed!
-Turner Theological Seminary, Atlanta, Georgia will observe its Annual Founders' Day Celebration on February 6-8 on the I.T.C. Center, Atlanta, Georgia. Dr. Daniel W. Jacobs, Sr., President; Bishop William DeVeaux, Presiding Bishop.
-Shorter College of the A.M.E. Church, 12th Episcopal District is currently enrolling students for the academic and Computer Certification Courses, located North Little Rock, Arkansas. For further information contact the at (501) 374-6305
Registrar ShorterCollegeRegistrar@Hotmail.com
- Samuel Chapel African Methodist Episcopal Church, Mobile Alabama of the Ninth Episcopal District, will celebrate their Founders' Day celebration on Sunday, January 28, 2007 at 11:00 a.m., Rev. W. E. Marshall, M. Div., is the pastor. The community is cordially invited to attend.
- “Christmas Around the AME Church” was celebrated at St. John (Birmingham, AL) on Sunday, December 17, 2006. The youth of the Christian Debutante-Master Commission of St. John selected an Episcopal District and decorated a display board with the information they researched about the bishop, supervisors, location of episcopal districts, annual conferences, and interesting facts about episcopal districts. Various foods were prepared that represented what people ate in various districts. The youth were very excited by the information that they discovered about the bishops, supervisors and other officers in the AME Church.
10. THE AFRICAN METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH GATHERED TO PRAY FOR THE 110TH CONGRESS:
Written by Aisha Karimah
Metropolitan African Methodist Episcopal Church
On Thursday, January 4th, following the swearing in and convening of the 110th Congress of the United States, Bishops, Clergy, members and friends from around the connection of The African Methodist Episcopal Church assembled at the historic Cathedral of African Methodism, Metropolitan African Methodist Episcopal Church to salute, congratulate and pray for the Congressional Black Caucus and its Chair, The Honorable, Carolyn Cheeks Kilpatrick, Representative from Michigan. Metropolitan’s Pastor Rev. Ronald E. Braxton opened the service with a special “call to worship”.
Dr. Elsie Scott, Interim President of the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation, Inc. and member of Metropolitan’s Senior Board of Stewards extended a heartfelt and sincere welcome, saying that Metropolitan African Methodist Episcopal Church was the perfect setting for this momentous service. Recalling Metropolitan’s rich history, Dr. Scott says, that history continues with this significant service.
The Right Reverend Adam J. Richardson, Presiding Bishop, Second Episcopal District, also acknowledged the significance of the evening and expressed his delight, “to offer our denominational word of congratulations and commendations on your election and re-election to serve the people of the United States and of your particular districts”. Directing his comments to the members of the Congressional Black Caucus, Bishop Richardson said, “You were asked here tonight to spend a few minutes away from the nation’s heavy agenda, not just for fellowship, but also for prayer.” He noted, “that the African Methodist Episcopal Church has a long history of political engagement with more than a passing interest in peace and justice.”
Senior Bishop of the African Methodist Episcopal Church, The Right Reverend Philip R. Cousin, Presiding Bishop, Fourth Episcopal District expressed great delight in being present, as he made a special presentation to the Caucus Chair. Bishop Cousin recognized Rep. Kilpatrick as “a church going, prayer meeting AME member from his District”. With great joy and historical significance, Bishop Cousin acknowledged another dedicated member of the AME church, who is the third most powerful person in the United House of Representatives, Congressional Black Caucus member, The Honorable James Clyburn, Representative, South Carolina.
Acknowledging the importance of this service being held at the historic Metropolitan African Methodist Episcopal Church, Rep. Clyburn drew thunderous applause when he said, “his back was covered by the full African Methodist Episcopal Church.” Rep Clyburn also noted the significance of five Congressional Black Caucus members now serving as Chairs of major Congressional committees and twenty-two or twenty-three CBC members serving as Chairs of Congressional subcommittees. In introducing the Congressional Black Caucus Chair, Rep Clyburn called Rep. Kilpatrick, “an effective leader” who, according to Rep. Clyburn, “reaches out and gets out of each person, the best that is in them.”
The Honorable Carolyn Cheeks Kilpatrick, Representative, Michigan, Chair, Congressional Black Caucus Chair received a standing ovation and immediately offered, “all the praise to my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ”, saying that as members of Congress, “our job is to take care of the least of these, as Jesus did”. Thanking her Bishop, The Right Reverend Philip R. Cousin, Rep. Kilpatrick said she was born into the African Methodist Episcopal Church and will always be AME. She introduced members of the Congressional Black Caucus present, who included Rep. James E. Clyburn, 6th District, South Carolina, Rep. Alcee L. Hastings, 23rd District, Florida, Rep. Gregory W. Meeks, 6th District, New York, Rep. G. K. Butterfield, Jr., 1st District, North Carolina, Rep. Al Green, 9th District, Texas, and D.C. Delegate Eleanor Holmes Norton. Rep. Kilpatrick pointed out, “African Americans provided the margin of victory that made us win the House and the Senate” and said that the Caucus theme is “Change Course”. “We must speak out”, she said, “donate to something, confront the crisis that we face and continue the legacy that our people started”.
The service continued with prayers for the President of the United States by The Right Revered Richard Norris, Presiding Bishop, First Episcopal District. The Right Reverend McKinley Young, Presiding Bishop, Eleventh Episcopal District prayed for the United States. And, Rev. John White prayed for the 110th Congress.
Before the service ended, The Social Action Commission of the African Methodist Episcopal Church presented a special plaque to Rep. Kilpatrick. Ms. Annette Jones of the Washington Conference made the presentation on behalf of Commission Chair, The Right Reverend Carolyn Guidry, Presiding Bishop, Sixteenth Episcopal District.
The evening ended with a fellowship reception.
11. NCC, CHURCH LEADERS RESPOND TO THE PRESIDENT’S PLAN FOR MORE TROOPS IN IRAQ:
New York City, January 17, 2007 – “It is time, not to send more troops, but to start bringing our troops home,” says the National Council of Churches of Christ in the USA (NCC) following President George W. Bush’s plan for the Iraq war.
“The ‘surge’ as recommended by the president is immoral. What we do not need is an assertion of more military strength. What we need is the strength of basic moral conviction,” says the statement posted on the NCC website (complete statement below).
Leaders of some of the NCC’s 35 member churches also have expressed positions opposing more troops.
The Rev. John H. Thomas, general minister and president of the United Church of Christ said, in part, “The growing violence in Iraq, the enormous suffering being experienced by the citizens of Iraq, and the anguish of countless American families who have lost beloved sons and daughters to death and horrific injury calls for profound lament and repentance, not for stubborn commitment to the unilateralism and militarism that has been the hallmark of our failed policy in Iraq. That is why the President’s speech is not only politically disappointing, but morally deficient as well.”
“Our country must engage diplomatically not only the U.N., European Union and Russia, but all the nations in the Middle East, including Iran and Syria,” the Most Rev. Katharine Jefferts Schori, presiding bishop and primate of the Episcopal Church said. “Diplomacy, built on a foundation of mutual respect and interest among people of good will, not more troops, can bring an end to this tragic conflict.”
“The message of Jesus ‘to love your enemy,’ from the Gospel of Matthew 5:44, is inconsistent with military action. Jesus’ words instead move us toward peaceful methods, diplomacy, moral suasion, nonviolent sanctions, and international cooperation to address violence and aggression,” wrote Stanley J. Noffsinger, general secretary, Church of the Brethren General Board.
“The Church of the Brethren has called on its members to pray and give witness to the sin of violence, and has petitioned the federal government of the United States, the United Nations, and other nations and groups to seek peace by taking action to bring troops home from Iraq,” wrote Noffsinger. “Also, we have called on religious leaders from all faiths who preach violence to consider the things that truly make for peace. The wisdom of the scriptures, in the book of Jonah, provides direction: ‘Let everyone call urgently on God. Let them give up their evil ways and their violence’ (Jonah 3:8).
The Rev. Jim Winkler, general secretary, United Methodist General Board of Church and Society, said, “We call upon the U.S. Congress to oppose the President’s decision to send more troops to Iraq by withholding funds to escalate the war. We further urge Congress not to provide any additional money to continue the war this year. Congress should provide funding only to bring U.S. troops home and to aid in rebuilding Iraq.”
Winkler urged “United Methodists to join ‘America Says NO More Troops,’ www.americansayno.org and to participate in the January 27 rally in Washington to end the war in Iraq. Please visit www.unitedforpeace.org for more ways to stop this war expansion. And please pray for peace in Iraq.”
The NCC is America’s oldest ecumenical voice comprising 35 member communions with 45 million members in 100,000 congregations across the USA
12. STATEMENT OF THE NATIONAL COUNCIL OF CHURCHES OF CHRIST IN THE USA ON THE BUILD UP OF MORE U.S. TROOPS IN IRAQ:
President George W. Bush has ordered a “surge” in troops in Iraq, ostensibly to help quell sectarian violence and stabilize Baghdad. This escalation of troop presence is likely only to result in an escalation in American and Iraqi deaths. Thus the call for more troops is morally unsupportable.
Particularly in the wake of the barbaric execution of Saddam Hussein – an act that reflects not the ideals of democracy and justice, but rather mocks them – and an act that promises only to breed more violence, as only a violent act can – one would think that the United States would immediately seek to bring about a change of policy. Sending more troops is not a change in policy, nor is it even a change in strategy; it is more of the same.
Certainly a change in policy was what the November election results were all about. And certainly a change in policy was the bottom-line recommendation of the Iraq Study Group (ISG), a collection of men and women chosen for their collective expertise and wisdom. Instead, the president has chosen to ignore both the electorate and the ISG.
Given a chance to build broad consensus on a change of policy under the cover of the ISG Report, we have the makings of yet another divisive debate on whether or not the U.S. should put more lives in harm’s way. It seems that we are fated never to learn an important lesson of the Vietnam era - that U.S. leadership in the world does not depend on the continuation of failed policies - a lesson that became crystal clear during our recent funeral recollections of President Gerald Ford and his leadership.
It is time for moral strength, not military power, to take precedence in the U.S. plan for Iraq.
It is time to recognize the failure of a military policy that is not promoting freedom, not ending terrorism, not building up the Iraqi nation, not bringing security to the region, and not making the world safer.
It is time - and here we agree with the president - to insist on political benchmarks for the Iraqi government, and to provide reconstruction aid to the Iraqi people, if it is not already too late. But the benchmarks must be achievable, and this time the disbursement of aid must be transparent.
It is time to enter into respectful negotiations with those countries in the region that can exert influence on Iraq; to attend to the central issue of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict; and to lead the United Nations Security Council in enforcing restrictions on arms proliferation in the region.
And above all, it is time, not to send more troops, but to start bringing our troops home.
The “surge” as recommended by the president is immoral. What we do not need is an assertion of more military strength. What we need is the strength of basic moral conviction.
We make this statement in the spirit of the message last November from our member churches meeting in their annual General Assembly whose theme was, “...for the healing of the nations.” (Revelation 22:2).
13. THE CHAPLAINS CORNER - JONAH TRIED TO RUN AWAY FROM NINEVEH, AME CHAPLAIN MARK CISCO WENT AND PASSED OUT BIBLES IN THE HEART OF NINEVEH:
Mosul, Iraq
Story by SPC Darryl Bentley, Chaplain Assistant, 352 CSB
Photo by SGT. Charles Sebok, Chaplain Assistant, 352 CSB
Chaplain Mark Cisco, Battalion Chaplain, 352 CSB
The Bible has survived throughout the ages. God teaches “Heaven and earth will pass away; but my words will never pass away”. (Matthew 24:35) The word of God transcends race and geographical locations. In the heart of Mosul, Iraq, a country that is predominately Islam, a commander of one Iraqi battalion requested for a Bible translated in Arabic. The 352 Corps Support Battalion Unit Ministry Team (UMT) did not have Bible translated in Arabic in their inventory. They communicated this need to Chaplain Rachael Coggins, the 642 Group Chaplains in Atlanta, Georgia. Chaplain Coggins purchased two Bibles in Arabic and mailed them to her UMT in Mosul, Iraq.
Upon receiving the Bibles, we met with LTC Mohammed Ibrihim Belal, commander of the Iraqi Army 2/2/2/ Battalion and presented both Bibles to him. LTC Mohammed was very happy to receive the Bibles in a language we could read and clearly understand.
The 352 Corps Support Battalion UMT is directly responsible for over 1000 soldiers. That religious coverage includes leading chapel services, counseling and weekly education events for soldiers and Department of Defense civilians that live here on Forward Operating Base (FOB) Morez. We never dreamed we would have the golden opportunity to provide Bibles to such an important Iraqi Army leader.
We often hear politicians and various voices in the media speak of “winning the hearts and minds” of the Iraqi people, and it is small moment like providing Bibles that will help plant the seeds of trust and love in the minds of our Iraqi friends. We never know how God will use us beyond our comfort zones or in whose hands those Bibles will end, but God had promised us in Isaiah 55:11 that his “word will not return unto Him void” Our job is to sow the seed of love and kindness and allow God’s mighty spirit to water those seeds and see them to the harvest. God used us to touch the life an Iraqi commander and possibly anyone who may the read the Bible in Arabic translation.
*Permission to publish granted by the UMT Office, 352 CSB, Mosul, Iraq.
14. THE CHAPLAINS CORNER - SENIOR LEADER CHOOSES SERVANT-HOOD:
Mosul, Iraq
Story by SPC Darryl Bentley, 352 CSB, Chaplain Assistant
Mark Cisco, 352 CSB Battalion Chaplain
On 31 December 2006 a call was extended from the pulpit of Liberty Gospel Church to accept the “invitation to Christian Discipleship” following the preached word. The call did not fall on deaf ears. LTC Darryl Burton, Executive Office of the 399th Combat Support Hospital responded. When interviewed by Pastor/Chaplain Cisco, Brother Burton expressed his desire to be baptized and then they prayed together.
After praying, times were settled upon to meet and study together over the scriptural teaching of baptism. Scripture teaches that baptism is the outward sign of the inward commitment to follow Jesus Christ and to serve Him. Baptism symbolizes dying to the selfish, inner desires of the flesh and being born again into the new creature that Paul writes about in 2 Corinthians 5:17. Regardless of the position one holds in the world, the land at the foot of the cross is level and all who come there choose to be servants of the Most-high God.
At 1200 hours on 14 January 2007 in the sanctuary of Liberty Chapel the worship tone was set as the Choir and congregation sang the familiar song Doxology. Prayers were said, the scripture was read, and the congregation testified about the blessings of God in their lives. It was then that the Liberty Gospel Church Choir sang “Take Him to the Water”; their voices could be heard throughout the sanctuary and the praises to God even rang past the concrete barriers stacked around the outside of the chapel that protect worshippers from incoming mortars. It was then that Pastor Cisco and other ministers led brother Burton to the baptismal waters.
With all the pieces in place and the heavenly hosts undoubtedly perched about the chapel, and with Pastor standing in a baptismal pool filled with water at waist level located in the back of the pulpit area; Pastor Cisco said, “Brother Burton, I baptize you in the name of the Father, in the name of the Son, and in the name of the Holy Spirit.” As Brother Burton emerged from the waters, the diverse group of worshippers made up of military personnel and Department of Defense civilians shouted praises to God. Truly this day, a leader publicly demonstrated through baptism his personal relationship with God.
15. C0-PASTOR OF GREATER ALLEN AME CATHEDRAL, ELAINE MCCOLLINS FLAKE PUBLISHES A NEW BOOK WITH JUDSON PRESS:
God in Her Midst: Preaching Healing to Wounded Women
“If preaching is to truly reach the hearts, minds and souls of African American women, preachers must employ an analysis of scripture that reconstructs the Word of God in ways that are liberating to women as well as men, and reflects the totality of the African American experience.”—From the Introduction
Preachers are under a divine imperative to provide words of comfort, encouragement, empowerment, and liberation to all people, and especially to the least of these. That’s the premise behind this powerful new resource from respected pastor and author Dr. Elaine M. Flake. In God in Her Midst, Flake crafts a womanist theology and praxis of preaching to the population most overlooked and overwhelmed in our pews: wounded women—those wounded by virtue of their gender and more particularly black women who are also wounded by virtue of their race. She offers a theological paradigm to help preachers understand and fulfill their responsibility to preach liberation and empowerment to the marginalized and hurting. She provides concrete strategies for redeeming Scripture from traditional sexism and insensitivity, and she gives direction on how to unfold in every sermon the good news that brings healing instead of more hurt. Finally, Flake offers examples from her own ministry, including sample sermons that explore the lives of misunderstood women from the Bible.
“Dr. Flake’s preaching methods are important for any pastor who is attempting to provide an atmosphere for the spiritual growth of both men and women. Her sermons are great frameworks from which preachers can glean how to do it right and powerful.” —Rev. Dr. William H. Curtis
About the author: Elaine McCollins Flake, with her husband Floyd Flake, is co-pastor of the Greater Allen A.M.E. Cathedral in Jamaica, NY where they also founded the Allen Christian School. Together they wrote African American Church Management Handbook (Judson Press).
God in Her Midst: Preaching Healing to Wounded Women
Author: Elaine M. Flake, Foreword by William H. Curtis
Edited by Kathryn Stanley
Size & Binding: 5.5" x 8.5", Trade Paper
Publication Date: March 2007
ISBN: 978-0-8170-1506-0
16. THE PASTOR’S CORNER - - THE JOY OF SACRIFICE:
*The Rev. James Moody
The kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field. When a man found it, he hid it again, and then in his joy went and sold all he had and bought that field. Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant looking for fine pearls. When he found one of great value, he went away and sold everything he had and bought it. (Matthew 13: 44-46)
The idea of sacrificing anything is foreign in today’s western culture. In the United States, Canada, or Western Europe it is believed, by many, to sacrifice anything is to somehow reduce one’s value in life or self worth. Jesus however, illuminates the joy of sacrificing to receive something of great value.
In the parable of the hidden treasure, Jesus gives us a working definition of the sacrifice. He shares how a man found something of great value “and then in his joy went and sold all he had and bought that field.” The man in our Lord’s story paid the high price gladly because of the value he received. To pay the high price gladly is what it means to sacrifice. Persons will pay more to have a certain model of luxury car because they perceive the value they receive makes paying the high price worth it.
While studying to prepare this devotional, I found myself challenged by an interpretation of the two parables that was different from all I had been taught for years. I have always understood the parables of the hidden treasure and pearl of great value to describe how we are to sell or give up all that we have to possess the kingdom of God. However when we apply Jesus’ interpretation of the parable of the wheat and weeds (vss. 24-30), we see that the man (v. 37) who is the main character represents Jesus Christ. The field (v. 38) represents the world and the good seed stands for the sons of the kingdom, the object of the man’s efforts.
When we apply these representations to the parables of the hidden treasure and pearl of great value we could read the story this way. “The kingdom of heaven is like the sons of the kingdom hidden in the world. When Jesus found them, he hid them again, and then in his joy went and gave up all he had and bought the whole world.” What a revelation. Jesus gladly sacrificed all to pay the price to have you and me – He paid the high price gladly! And that’s love.
My mother was a fantastic cook. She created Sunday meals that were truly feasts. I once heard someone ask her why she enjoyed cooking. My mother shared that she didn’t enjoy cooking at all. She said she received her joy from seeing us love the food she presented. Jesus didn’t desire the cross. He knew the pain, shame, isolation, and humiliation he would suffer. Yet Jesus says, “in his joy [He] went and sold all He had and bought that field.” Sacrifice is paying the high price gladly.
* The Rev. James M. Moody is the pastor of Quinn Chapel AME Church, 2401 S. Wabash Ave., Chicago, IL 60616
17. A PLEDGE TO RESCUE OUR YOUTH:
Dr. Maya Angelou
Young woman, young man of color; we add our voices to the voices of your ancestors who speak to you over ancient seas and across impossible mountaintops.
Come up from the gloom of national neglect,
you nave already been paid for.
Come out of the shadow of irrational prejudice,
you owe no racial debt to history.
The blood of our bodies and the prayers of
our souls have bought you a future free from
shame and bright beyond the telling of it.
We pledge ourselves and our resources to seek for you clean and well-furnished schools, safe and non-threatening streets, employment, which makes use of your talents, but does not degrade your dignity.
You are the best we have.
You are all we have.
You are what we have become.
We pledge you our whole hearts from this day forward.
18. CLERGY CONGRATULATORY NOTICE:
Episcopal Birthday Greetings!
Happy 75th Birthday blessing to Mother Irene B. Reid, the former WMS Supervisor in the 14th, 7th, 9th, 4th and 2nd Districts.
We praise God for each year He has blessed her with. We praise God for allowing us to benefit from the wisdom and joy that God has placed in her to share with others all around the world
Celebrate life each day that you live
Celebrate life by loving to give
Celebrate life by using your breath
to praise God each day
that you are alive
to Celebrate life for year 75
Editor's note: Happy Birthday, Sister Reid! Your Christmas Card came back "undeliverable."
- Presiding Elder Ward's 50th birthday. The Wrens-Vidalia District invites all in extending best wishes and happiness to Presiding Elder Richard Quinn Ward, Sr, President of the Presiding Elder's Council and Presiding Elder of the Wrens-Vidalia District, in the Sixth Episcopal District on the occasion of his 50th birthday. A 50th Birthday Jubilee Celebration is scheduled to be held in his honor in the near future. E-mails can be forwarded to pewardsixteen@yahoo.com or (912) 571-5578.
Hardcopy messages may be mailed to P.E. Ward at, P.O. Box 2303, Vidalia, Georgia 30436.
Information submitted by: The Rev. Carlos T. Young, Administrative Assistant (912) 596-8223.
19. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
Mr. Thurmond Joe Strothers passed away January 16, 2006. He was the brother-in- law of General Officer & Mrs. George F. Flowers, Dept. of Global Witness & Ministry-AMEC.
Quiet Hour/Public Viewing: Monday morning, January 22,
2007 - 10-11:00 A.M.
Funeral Service: January 22, 2007 - 11:00 AM Perry Funeral Home, Inc.
34 Mercer Street - corner of Lincoln Street Newark, New Jersey 07103
Telephone: (973) 824-9201
Fax: (973) 504-9610
Dr. Flowers (843) 297-0503
Condolences may be sent to:
Eric and Shanay Strothers
16 Elliott Place
East Orange, New Jersey 07018
20. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
Regretfully, we announce the homegoing of Mr. E. Van Burkett on Tuesday, January 16, 2007. Mr. Burkett was a long-time member of Cherry Street A.M.E.
Church in Dothan, Alabama, Dothan-Eufaula District, and served in many offices. He was a former President of the South Alabama Conference Lay Organization and Educator in the Dothan School System for many years.
Homegoing Service:
Monday, January 22, 2007
11:00 A.M.
Cherry Street A.M.E. Church
308 North Cherry Street
Dothan, AL 36302
Ph. 334-793-9664
Reverend Ulysses Kincey, Jr., Pastor
Presiding Elder David E. Reddick, Eulogist
Funeral Director:
Hammond & Son Funeral Home
586 E. Burdeshaw Street
Dothan, AL 36303
Ph. 334-792-7913
Public viewing beginning at 1 P.M. Sunday, January 21, 2007
Messages Of Comfort May Be Sent To:
Mrs. Florine Burkett & Family
2904 St. Luke Street
Dothan, AL 36303
21. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
Dr. Iris Dixon Meadows went to be with the Lord on Tuesday, January 16, 2007. Dr. Meadows was a member of Handy Chapel A.M.E. Church in Gadsden, Alabama & YPD Director of the Agnes Cooper Area, North Alabama Conference, Ninth Episcopal District.
Homegoing Service:
Saturday, January 20, 2007
11:00 A.M.
Handy Chapel A.M.E Church
901 Rogers Street
Gadsden, AL 35901
Ph. 205-547-9980
Reverend James Barnett, Pastor/Eulogist
Funeral Director:
West Gadsden Funeral Home
2118 Forrest Avenue
Gadsden, AL 35904
Ph. 256-549-0004
Messages of comfort may be sent to:
Mr. Quinton Meadows & Family (Kelsey & Aaron)
1315 Merryhill Avenue
Gadsden, AL 35903-3222
Ph. 256-543-3144
22. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
Rev. Reginald Boston a Superannuated Elder of The Baltimore Annual Conference, Second Episcopal District of The African Methodist Episcopal Church, a member of Trinity African Methodist Episcopal Church after a very lengthy illness has passed from labor to eternal reward.
Service arrangements held:
Wednesday, January 17, 2007
4:00 PM - 7:00 PM
Public viewing
Trinity AME Church
2140 Hoffman Street
Baltimore, Maryland
Dr. Colin M. Lambert, Pastor
Funeral:
Thursday, January 18, 2007
Trinity AME Church
10:00 a.m. - Family Hour
11:00 AM Home Going Celebration
Submitted by:
Rev. Dr. Joan L. Wharton
Pastor, Mt. Zion AME Church
Long Green, Maryland
23. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
Dr. Louis A. DeSalle, III, passed away January 17, 2007. He was the father of Mrs. Debbie DeSalle Plummer and the father in-law of the Rev. Jimmie Plummer, Pastor of St. Luke AME Church, Gallatin, TN.
His service arrangements are as follows:
Homegoing Service at 12 noon (Mass)
Monday, January 22, 2007
Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church (Catholic)
1908 Short Street
Kinner, Louisiana 70062
(504) 464-0361
Any expressions of condolences may be sent to the Church or to the home address:
Mrs. Debbie DeSalle Plummer
4060 Yoest Drive
Nashville, TN 37207
or
Rev. and Mrs. Jimmie Plummer
St. Luke AME Church
355 North Blythe Street
Gallatin, TN 37066
Submitted by:
Rev. Ralph Johnson, Presiding Elder
Kentucky Conference, 13th Episcopal District
24. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
This communication comes to inform you of the passing of Mr. Larry Cheatham. Mr. Cheatham is the brother-in-law of the Rev. and Mrs. Wilbert Gray, pastor and 1st Lady of Quinn Chapel, Little Rock, AR.
Service arrangements:
Funeral
Saturday, January 20, 2007
12:00 noon
Cottrell C.M.E. Church
Hot Springs, AR.
Arrangements have been entrusted to:
Guinn Funeral Home
Stuttgart, Arkansas
Condolences may be sent to:
Rev. and Mrs. Wilbert Gray
170 Auriel Circle
Maumell, AR 72113
(501) 803-4342
Submitted by:
Anita Brannon
12th Episcopal District Administrative Office
25. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
Remember in prayer the Rev. and Mrs. Gregory Ball, pastor and first lady of Bethel AME Church, Easton Maryland in the loss of their unborn baby on January 16, 2007, which was due on Feb 8, 2007.
Service arrangements:
Memorial Service
Sunday, January 21, 2007
2:00 pm
Bethel A.M.E. Church
110 S. Hanson Street
Easton, Maryland 21601
The Ball Family address:
Rev. and Mrs. Gregory Ball Sr.
313 Pacific Ave.
Cambridge, Maryland 21613
Home phone: (410) 221-1804
Office phone: (410) 822-3619
Cell: 443-521-6589
Fax: (410) 221-0630
Email: reverendrevball@hotmail.com
26. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
Regretfully, we announce the homegoing of Mr. E. Van Burkett on Tuesday, January 16, 2007. Mr. Burkett was a long-time member of Cherry Street A.M.E. Church in Dothan, Alabama, Dothan-Eufaula District, and served in many offices. He was a former President of the South Alabama Conference Lay Organization and Educator in the Dothan School System for many years.
Homegoing Service:
Monday, January 22, 2007
11:00 A.M.
Cherry Street A.M.E. Church
308 North Cherry Street
Dothan, AL 36302
Ph. 334-793-9664
Reverend Ulysses Kincey, Jr., Pastor
Presiding Elder David E. Reddick, Eulogist
Funeral Director:
Hammond & Son Funeral Home
586 E. Burdeshaw Street
Dothan, AL 36303
Ph. 334-792-7913
Public viewing beginning at 1 P.M. Sunday, January 21, 2007
Messages may be sent to:
Mrs. Florine Burkett & Family
2904 St. Luke Street
Dothan, AL 36303
27. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
Dr. Iris Dixon Meadows went to be with the Lord on Tuesday, January 16, 2007. Dr. Meadows was a member of Handy Chapel A.M.E. Church in Gadsden, Alabama & YPD Director of the Agnes Cooper Area, North Alabama Conference, Ninth Episcopal District.
Homegoing Service:
Saturday, January 20, 2007
11:00 A.M.
Handy Chapel A.M.E Church
901 Rogers Street
Gadsden, AL 35901
Ph. 205-547-9980
Reverend James Barnett, Pastor/Eulogist
Funeral Director:
West Gadsden Funeral Home
2118 Forrest Avenue
Gadsden, AL 35904
Ph. 256-549-0004
Messages may be sent to:
Mr. Quinton Meadows & Family (Kelsey & Aaron)
1315 Merryhill Avenue
Gadsden, AL 35903-3222
Ph. 256-543-3144
28. 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
29. 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.
