The Reverend Dr. Johnny Barbour, Jr., Publisher
The Reverend Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III, Editor
1. EDITORIAL: AN EXPLANATION ABOUT EASTER AND THE RECKONING OF THE RESURRECTION OF JESUS ON THE THIRD DAY:
Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III
I received an engaging inquiry from Dr. Bill Dickens, a professor at Florida A&M University and who is also the teacher for the of Sons of Allen Church School class at Bethel AME Church in Tallahassee, Florida. He stated, “There are two theological conundrums I have always struggled with concerning Easter,” and he shared those conundrums with me. I asked Dr. Dickens if I could share my response as part of an editorial. He graciously agreed and told me that I could use his name. He went on to say, if he had those questions, he is sure that others must have them also.
The first observation
Dr. Dickens observed, “I find it odd that the most sacred holy-day in the Christian liturgical calendar is actually based on a pagan tradition involving lunar movements and the spring equinox. Why can't Christians celebrate Easter on a fixed holiday like Christmas or even Thanksgiving?” Dr. Dickens want on to say, “…it should be apparent that I favor a fixed, not a moving date, for Easter.” He went on to share that his background is in economics, mathematics and history and that as a church school administrator and as a teacher of Sons of Allen Church School class, he wanted to provide his students with the same degree of accuracy and excellence as he did when he helped college students navigate through the fog and complexity of economics and math.
I responded that Easter is not based upon a pagan tradition, unless one believed that the biblical event of Passover was a pagan custom. The Passover event can be found with a full explanation in Exodus, Numbers and Deuteronomy, i.e., Exodus 12:1-50; Numbers 9:1-14; 33:3; Deuteronomy 16:1-8.
Easter has its genesis in Passover. Jesus and the disciples, and devout Jews, went to Jerusalem to celebrate the Passover (See Matthew 26:17). That is the reason Passover and Easter are observed about the same time each year. Passover is not a fixed holy-day and it would stand to reason that Easter cannot be a fixed holiday.
Simply stated, the Jewish calendar is based upon the lunar cycle but their calendar has adjustments, even today, that keep the Passover in the spring. If the Hebrew calendar strictly followed the lunar calendar as the Muslims do, Passover would be celebrated in the spring, summer, fall, and winter. Christians follow the solar calendar so we celebrate Easter in the spring of each year, but the reckoning of Easter is based upon the lunar cycle. Easter occurs on the first Sunday after the full moon following the spring equinox (In the Northern Hemisphere). Easter never falls before March 22 or later than April 25. The Jewish calendar, based upon the lunar cycle makes adjustments to their calendar to insure that Passover is celebrated in the spring.
The second observation
Dr. Dickens’ second question related to the passage in Matthew 12:39-40, where Jesus prophesied that his resurrection would occur after being in the grave, "three days and three nights." Dr. Dickens went on to observe, “If we accept the tradition that Jesus was crucified on Good Friday and rose from the grave on Easter Sunday the time length suggests this event occurred on two nights not three nights; I don't see where we get the ‘third day.’"
A valid question
If you go to the biblical book of Genesis, chapter one, the Bible defines a day after each creation event as, “an evening and a morning,” i.e. Genesis 1:5, “God called the light Day, and the darkness He called Night; So the evening and the morning were the first day. Creation had it beginning in darkness (void), so it is an “evening and a morning constitutes a day.”
In antiquity, time was reckoned differently. And that’s the reason the Jewish Sabbath begins on Friday evening and the reason that the Jewish authorities wanted to bury Jesus before sundown which would be the beginning of the Sabbath (Saturday). Therefore, Jesus arose on the third day because the first day was Friday, the second day was Saturday, and the third day was Sunday. That’s biblical reckoning and it makes sense. Those who think that Sunday was two days later are using modern reckoning as, “from Friday to Saturday as one day, and from Saturday to Sunday as the second day; that’s incorrect biblical reckoning.” Friday was the first day, Saturday was the second Day, and, “Hallelujah,” Sunday was the third day!
Further clarification can be found in John Wesley’s Notes in which he observed, “It was customary with the eastern nations to reckon any part of a natural day of twenty-four hours, for the whole day. Accordingly they used to say a thing was done after three or seven days, if it was done on the third or seventh day, from that which was last mentioned. Instances of this may be seen, 1 Kings 20:29; and in many other places. And as the Hebrews had no word to express a natural day, they used night and day, or day and night for it. So that to say a thing happened after three days and three nights, was with them the very same, as to say, it happened after three days, or on the third day. See Esther 4:16; Esther 5:1; Genesis 7:4, Genesis 7:12; Exodus 24:18; Exodus 34:28. Jonah 2:1.
Admittedly, the name, Easter in terms of etymology is not a Christian term. In antiquity all celebrations were tied into the seasons of the year, i.e., planting, harvest, darkness, light, etc. Easter, as with Christmas has taken on some pagan or worldly attributes and it was done purposely as an evangelism tool. We can see that with the discussion about how to include “hip hop” in worship and how Kwanza has crept into the Christian liturgical calendar. Christmas has Christmas trees and Santa Claus and Easter has the bunny and hard boiled eggs. Around Halloween the church instituted All-Saints' Day and All Souls' Day. It is interesting how all of this evolved; it's happening even today.
2. READER RESPONSE TO EDITORIAL AND OTHER ISSUES:
- To the Editor:
Re: The 95th Bishop of the African Methodist Episcopal Church and Mother Cummings Enjoying Retirement.
We are pleased to share that Bishop Frank C. Cummings was our guest preacher for Palm Sunday.
His message was entitled "Taking the Church to the Village." It was a powerful, timely, and well delivered message about the responsibility and mission of the church today.
Bishop Cummings dedicated Macedonia AME Church in Rex, Georgia, which at that time was under the pastoral leadership of the late Rev. Robert L. Mallory, approximately five years ago. This was his first visit since the dedication. Bishop Cummings complimented the church for a walking by faith and moving to its current location when really no one gave the church a vote of confidence in this endeavor. Then the Bishop said "just look where the Lord has brought you from."
Bishop Cummings encouraged the church and its new pastor, Bruce L. Francis, to keep striving for higher ground. This church has a wonderful opportunity to grow and do work for the Lord.
Thank you, Bishop and Mrs. Cummings, for making Palm Sunday a memorable day.
We invite you to visit Macedonia where we are praising the Lord and growing a people and church for the Lord.
Macedonia is located at 6235 Stagecoach Road Rex, Georgia; our weekly Sunday services are held at 8:00 am & 10:45 am; Sunday school from 9:30 am to 10:30 am; and Bible Study every Wednesday at 7:00 PM.
Pastor Bruce Leon Francis, M.Div.
Macedonia AME Church
- To the Editor:
RE: the editorial comments about Gwen Ifill’s father in response to The New York Times Article written by Gwen Ifill
You forgot to share with your readers this part about Rev. Ifill: He was a tall, handsome man, who wore a long, red robe. He certainly did grab your attention because he was such a stunning-looking man. And if you'd ever heard him once, when you saw him again in that long, red robe you knew that he was revving up to preach you sumkinda good, powerful sermon! You were about to witness that "extraordinary command of the English language."
Mrs. Jeanette T. Johns
Editor's Note: Jeanette Johns is the author of The Upward Journey, the chronicle of the life of the late Bishop Decatur Ward Nichols.
3. THE 9TH BIENNIAL CONNECTIONAL STEWARDSHIP AND ECONOMIC EMPOWERMENT CONFERENCE, BIRMINGHAM, ALABAMA:
The 2007 Connectional Stewardship and Economic Empowerment Conference will be held May 1-4, 2007 at the Sheraton Hotel and Conference Center, Birmingham, Alabama.
The general theme of the conference is “Equipping God’s Church with New Paradigms of Holistic Stewardship,” which was selected to capture and encompass the full intent and import of the philosophy of “Living Well,” which is the focus of the AME Church during this quadrennium.
The conference will include the inspired teachings of some of the most distinguished stewardship professionals of our Zion, such as the Right Reverend John Hurst Adams, the Right Reverend Gregory G.M. Ingram, Dr. Gwendolyn Boyd, Dr. C. Dennis Williams, Dr. Leroy Attles and Dr. James F. Miller.
The opening night worship service on May 1st will feature the Right Reverend Philip R. Cousin, Sr. Other Conference preachers include, The Right Reverend John R. Bryant on Wednesday, May 2nd), and the Right Reverend Henry A. Belin, Jr. on May 3rd. The noonday “Hour of Power” sermons will feature the Reverends Sylvester Beaman, Marvin Zanders and Wayne Johnson.
Conference registration is $125 and registration forms may be downloaded from the AME Department of Annuity Investments and Insurance Website: http://amecdaii.org/ and sent to the Department of Annuity Investments and Insurance.
Hotel accommodations may be made directly with the hotel or online by going to http://amecdaii.org/ and clicking on the circular image above the Sheraton symbol or simply click on the Sheraton symbol on the department’s website.
The Group rate is $115 until April 15th and you must mention the AMEC Stewardship Conference.
Rooms are going fast so make your reservation today!
4. HALLELUJAH! HE IS RISEN:
By: Delanda S. Johnson
Special to the News
Song writer George Bennard (1873-1958) wrote these lyrics, “On a hill far away stood an old rugged cross, The emblem of suffering and shame; And I love that old cross where the dearest and best; For a world of lost sinners was slain. So I’ll cherish the old rugged cross; Till my trophies at last I lay down; I will cling to the old rugged cross, And exchange it some day for a crown.”
Once again members from Johnson Chapel AME Church, New Hope Corinth CME Church, Church of the Living God all located in Malakoff, Texas came together to spread the Good News of Christ rising from the dead to the offenders at the Coffield Unit in Tenn. Colony, Texas.
Three Ministers and one Evangelist, on Saturday, April 7 preached the “Seven Last Words of Christ.”
Evangelist Alma Berry (Johnson Chapel) spoke to the offenders on “Forgiveness.” Berry pointed out the even as a baby Jesus was on the run and had to “Forgive.”
She stressed that people will find fault in whatever you are doing and asked the question, “Have you ever been betrayed by a friend? Did you forgive or did you just want to get even?”
“Friends will test you to see if you are real. However, you must remember that Jesus forgave all that was done to him. That is why Jesus hung on the cross, to die for your sins and to Forgive,” said Berry.
Brother Tony Moore (New Hope Corinth) spoke on “Helping one to find Paradise.” Moore stressed that there is an earthly and spiritual peace in knowing God.
“Even while Jesus was dying on the cross, He took time to save one of the thieves who was next to Him. The theft feared God and ask to be with Jesus in paradise,” said Moore.
Moore pointed out that the theft admitted that he was wrong, accepted his punishment, and asked Jesus for help. “Jesus had all power in His hands, but He made the choice to die. He had compassion for a world that did not have compassion for HIM,” said Moore.
Rev. Tyrone Pettiford (New Hope Corinth) addressed the offenders on the pain Jesus’ mother Mary must have felt; watching her son be put to death. “This was the son that she had given birth to, but there she was watching him suffer,” said Pettiford.
“Yet, while hanging on the cross Jesus had to endure the pain of knowing that he was sold by his friend for 30 pieces of silver, denied by his friends, and His disciples fall asleep when they were to keep watch. This is pain,” said Pettiford.
Pettiford wanted the offenders to know that no matter type of pain you may be going through, Jesus has ever thing under control. “Jesus will take away all of your pain and you will have peace of mind knowing that you will one day be with the HIM,” said Pettiford.
Bishop Annell Haney (Church of the Living God) concluded the services by telling the offenders that Jesus come to this world and die leaving this world knowing that this was His destiny.
“Jesus volunteered to die. At the cross He held envy, jealousy, hatred, and much more by dying for you and me. When you think of “victory, you will think of a righteous man and His name is, ‘Jesus,’” said Haney.
5. PALM SUNDAY PRAISE AND WORSHIP AT ST PAUL A.M.E. CHURCH, JACKSONVILLE WITH A REENACTMENT PARADE:
*Angela Surcey Garner
New Library and Technology Center Dedication; Dr. George Flowers Preaches
St. Paul A.M.E. Church in Jacksonville, The Reverend Marvin C. Zanders, II, Senior Pastor, was blessed on Palm Sunday, April 1, 2007, to reenact Jesus’ entrance into Jerusalem in a very creative way – with a parade! Pastor Zanders’ vision from God came to fruition when our Parade Coordinator, The Reverend Kennetta C. Carter, got the ball rolling early this year. Plans were made, ministries were asked to participate and the parade was wonderfully blessed!
We began with the first Communion Service at 7:30 a.m. and were honored to have as our guest speaker for the day, Dr. George Flowers, Secretary/Treasurer of the Department of Missions for the Global Witness and Ministry of the A.M.E. Church. The parade set up began on time with our bus taking persons to the starting point. We all gathered on the corner of New Kings Road, also U.S. route 1 in Jacksonville, and Soutel Drive. Our donkey, “Jeannie”, arrived safely with her owner and seemed to be very content eating the green grass in a strange pasture.
There was excitement in the air as the final participants arrived, to include Pastor and Lady Zanders and their guests, Dr. and Mrs. Flowers. There were decorated cars and trucks, many carried banners bearing their ministry names, most of the participants were dressed in uniform shirts or colors, there were enough palm fronds for everyone to wave. Brother Renard Peeples and Reverend Carter organized the line-up as the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office, led by our St. Paul Family member, Brother Venzuello McMillan, blocked the southbound side of New Kings Road at Soutel Drive and Richardson Road. There were onlookers driving by on the northbound side, some even parked their cars to watch; some members of the Friendship Baptist Church Family cheered as we went by, and people in their homes came out to enjoy the parade.
Pastor and Lady Zanders led the walkers as our reenactment began around 9:45 a.m. We were blessed with five members of the Edward Waters College Drumline who led a band of people as they sang “Hosanna!” while waving palm fronds. The donkey was walked by Brother McDaniel who had the role of our blessed Jesus the Christ as He entered Jerusalem to meet with death for OUR sins. The choir was beautifully led by our Music Minister, The Reverend Marlowe Smith, singing, “O Magnify the Lord!” They were dressed the same, with Sister Deborah Harris (also in the choir) and Sister Grace Nix-Cantrell carrying the St. Paul A.M.E. Church Staff banner in front of them. The parade continued, to include our youth groups (Acolytes and YPD) singing their own version of “Hosanna!”
The parade participants returned to the church, congregated in and near the Proctor Development Center, where water and cool air was available for weary walkers. There were Hosanna praises everywhere as we gathered for the dedication of the new Alexander W. Cottrell Library and the Winifred H. Zanders Technology Center. The choir began the ceremony by singing “Oh, Magnify the Lord”, and then Pastor Zanders welcomed everyone to the dedication. Mrs. Cottrell (Brother Cottrell’s widow) and Michelle (their daughter) stood near prepared to speak in recognition of the Library dedication, read in part by Trustee, Sister Alpha Hay, Pastor Zanders, and Dr. Flowers (Officer of the A.M.E. Church). Each room was dedicated and bore wall photos of Brother Cottrell and Lady Zanders respectively. The unveiling took place in both rooms with cameras rolling and flashing, and rounds of applause and hallelujahs.
Our fabulous Palm Sunday continued with the second Worship Service and our preacher of the hour, Dr. George Flowers. Holy Communion followed and all were blessed to symbolically partake of the body and blood of Jesus the Christ, on a commemorative day like Palm Sunday – the beginning of Holy Week. As God continues to bless the Saint Paul A.M.E. Church Family, there is still room for more. There’s a place for YOU at St. Paul A.M.E. Church!
*Sister Angela Surcey Garner, St Paul AMEC/11th District’s Media Team
6. THE DEAF ARE NOT HANDICAPPED, THEY JUST CAN’T HEAR YOU!
*Angela Surcey Garner
The Deaf Culture Lives and Breathes Within the Hearing Community…
My issues with the hearing society as a whole is, some of them just don’t get it! When I was a Customer Service Specialist at J.C. Penney, I had my first encounter with a deaf person. “Mr. George”, I called him, brought his family in every year to buy school clothes for the children. He and his wife were deaf; the children were not, making them CODAs (Children of Deaf Adults). He approached me, I smiled and spoke, he mouthed the words and signed that he is deaf (I didn’t know sign language then and was still determined to communicate with him). The children translated most of the time but we communicated pretty well without them. Another time, “Mr. George” came to talk to me about a problem he was having and asked me to pray for him! God had pricked my Spirit to learn Sign Language. I wasn’t obedient right away, so he sent another beautiful customer the following year.
She did not approach me, instead, I watched as others approached her and she didn’t acknowledge their presence; she wouldn’t even look at them! I knew then, within my Spirit, that she must be deaf. Those who had approached her complained that she wouldn’t say anything, appeared to be rude and didn’t want to be helped. I walked over to her, touched her on the shoulder, waved and smiled. She responded the same way. I mouthed the words, “Do you need any help?” She smiled and shook her head, “no,” but found me when she did. At that moment, I knew I had to learn Sign Language. I wanted to communicate with this beautiful spirit who shopped with me often.
Four years later, I am obediently learning how to sign, with a hearing professor, who is a CODA, and a vast, new world of understanding the Deaf Culture is opened. I want to share that world with you from my perspective. First of all, please, get rid of the terms, “deaf mute” and “deaf and dumb!” Deaf people are neither. They are either Deaf or Hard of Hearing (HOH). That’s it. No other terms apply. The term “deaf mute” implies that deaf people can not produce sounds with their voices. They can. Their voice boxes work fine. The deaf can’t hear themselves make sounds, so most of them don’t, at least not in a strange hearing person’s presence. But many of the sounds made have meaning and hearing persons in “their world” completely understand those sounds. Most deaf people can actually talk and form words which they choose to do only by choice. It benefits the hearing when the deaf speak, they can’t hear themselves; vibration is there but no sound. Please do not ever refer to a Deaf/HOH person as a “deaf mute.”
The other term, “deaf and dumb” really angers me! There are probably more “hearing and dumb” in this world than there could ever be deaf and dumb. The deaf are not dumb. They are completely capable of learning, understanding, communicating, working, teaching, marrying, having and raising children, or doing anything a hearing person can do… but hear. Sure, there are “gadgets” to enhance hearing, but there are sometimes unpleasant or irreversible side effects for using them. In Washington D.C., Gallaudet University continues to thrive with deaf leadership, instructors, professors, students, and continues as a landmark for the Deaf Community.
I find that most people who don’t sign, have no desire to sign, or never thought about learning American Sign Language (ASL), see the Deaf Community as a bunch of handicapped people who communicate among themselves and others close to them. But they fail to see, we are all living in the same world! If you continue to live in this world, you will eventually meet, stand next to, have to give service to, occupy the road with, or will have to make some contact with a deaf person or deaf people. The world is finally coming to life by including American Sign Language in the schools allowing the hearing to learn how to communicate with the deaf using their language.
Hearing people who don’t know ASL should look at things this way: when they are in a room with deaf people, who are communicating with Sign Language, they have no idea what is being said. However, many deaf persons can read lips, some can hear a little sound, if they wanted to include themselves in your conversation, they probably could, better than a hearing person who knows no Sign Language at all. So, it’s not about them wanting to be part of the hearing world, they can communicate just fine with each other and with the hearing world when necessary. Sign language is now being taught to the hearing, who want to communicate with all American persons, Deaf/HOH or hearing… you are one or the other. ASL is also used for hearing people who can’t speak or have difficulty speaking. The deaf person, who can’t speak but can communicate using ASL, is NOT “deaf and dumb.” Some may insist that they are mute, but viable communication denies they are dumb.
My formal introduction to the Deaf Culture happened on March 10, 2007. I was invited to a “silent luncheon” at Evangel Temple in Jacksonville, FL. Two of my classmates planned to meet me there. I arrived first, signing my introduction to the ladies in the kitchen where I’d been led to enter. I was very nervous because I wasn’t confident about my signing ability and signed emphatically that I was an ASL1 student. This seemed to remove the pressure of being expected to know as much Sign Language as others present. The ladies I met at the beginning were all hearing, ASL students also, though more advanced. Even the first lady I met as we were seated in the room where we would dine, told me in sign, that she is also hearing but will remain “voice off” during the luncheon. She is an interpreter.
As people began to arrive, my classmates finally made it and I was already comfortable signing with the people I’d already met. I had gone back to my seat, watching persons sign to each other, amazed at how much I understood, when a very beautiful Spirit walked into the room. Her Spirit met mine and I was out of my chair to meet her before I realized what was happening! She asked if I was deaf or hearing, then told me she is deaf. I knew at that moment I was there to meet her. We have become friends and talk online, by email, or cell text daily.
When it was time to eat, instructions were given in ASL. I understood enough to follow the line, knew how to get my food and not run into people. We all ate a healthy salad with pudding for dessert. Just when I thought I was there for one reason, God gave me further confirmation. As I walked to discard my napkins and eating utensils, I glanced in the kitchen, saw my friend/customer from J.C. Penney fixing her salad and I screamed in excitement! She was my confirmation! She was my inspiration! God made everything clear at that moment. We hugged and she asked me what I was doing there. I’d never heard her speak before! I proudly signed, “I am learning ASL1 at FCCJ!” She shouted and raised her hands, “Praise the Lord!” I excitedly flew back into the room where we had been dining and attempted to sign everything I was saying. One of the interpreters began to translate for me and everyone was as excited as I was. Little did I know; I would stand before those ladies again to speak impromptu.
Each person gave a testimony about “when the light came on in their lives.” After the testimony, we were asked to uncover the object in front of us, which had been covered with a paper towel during the entire luncheon… it was a “lighthouse” candle which we took with us as we departed. I’d met many people with the same desire to communicate with the deaf. There were interpreters, instructors, other ASL students, three persons were deaf, and two were HOH. I’d met a hearing, female Pastor of a church, who signed everything she said and told me she signs her sermons as she gives them.
There are many hearing churches with deaf services available. God is calling all of His churches to prepare for all of His children – the deaf and hearing. It is my goal to find out how many A.M.E. Churches have services for the deaf and in what districts they reside. We need to get ready. God is doing a new thing and He wants all of His people following His Will. Many churches have slogans, mottos and mission statements that reflect inclusion, no discrimination. At St. Paul A.M.E. Church, we are “Sharing Christ and Meeting Needs.” In the 11th Episcopal District, we encourage all people, “There’s a Place for You in the African Methodist Episcopal Church.” In the A.M.E. Church’s Lay Organization, we proclaim we are “Laity Going Beyond the Walls, Sowing Seeds – An Agenda for Ministry and Service” – God will put all of that to the test. He is preparing us through one or many, but all must adhere to His Will. The A.M.E. Church continues to grow and must continuously prepare for change. God knows what He wants to do, how He wants to do it and who He will use to carry it out. The people He chooses are blessed beyond comparison! We must be willing to step out of our comfort zones into God’s zone, where all people are the same.
So, don’t have pity for the Deaf/HOH; they are not handicapped, you are if you can’t communicate with them; they can communicate with you if they choose to. In this vast hearing world, deaf people are everywhere! You just don’t see them; you can’t tell if a person is deaf by looking at them. They go grocery shopping, buy clothes, go to the fruit market, the Laundromat, the bank, football games, eat at restaurants, they drive private vehicles… the Deaf are not handicapped, they just can’t hear you.
*Sister Angela Surcey Garner, St Paul AMEC/11th District’s Media Team
7. FAVOURED SON OF SOUTH AFRICA TO BECOME THE PRESIDENT OF THE COUNCIL OF BISHOPS OF THE AFRICAN METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH JUNE 2007:
“Anointed to Serve – Called to make a Difference”
Born in the crucible of “Apartheid” South Africa, cradled for Christian Ministry in the parsonage, the destiny of Wilfred J. Messiah was Planned, Purposed and Ordained from on high. His preparation for this journey in the ministry began at Gow Chapel AME Church – Kraaifontein, Cape Town – Republic of South Africa, and in December 1977, entered the ministry at the Cape Annual Conference, 15th Episcopal District. His pursuit for higher education in South Africa was thwarted by his work as a political activist.
Two Bishops of the Church, arranged for him to further his studies in the United States of America. During the Ohio Annual Conference in 1979 held in Columbus, Ohio he was ordained an Itinerant Deacon by Bishop Vinton Randolph Anderson on behalf of the late Bishop Donald George Kenneth Ming and an Itinerant Elder in 1981 at the Cape Annual Conference held in Montague, Republic of South Africa, by the late Bishop John Ellsworth Hunter, the then presiding Bishop of the 15th Episcopal District.
Bishop Messiah graduated from Wilberforce University – Magna Cum Laude, 1982; Payne Theological Seminary – Cum Laude 1985; and Pittsburgh Theological Seminary 1997 with a Doctor of Ministry Degree. He was the first International Student to become President of the Student Government Association at Wilberforce University 1980; is listed in Who’s Who Among Students in American Colleges and Universities 1980 & 1981; National Dean’s List 1980 -1982; Alpha Kappa Mu National Honor Society 1982, is also a member of the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc. He is a recent recipient of an Honorary Doctorate Degree from Payne Theological Seminary, Wilberforce, Ohio., USA, along with several other distinguished service awards.
The African Methodist Episcopal Church in its mission has embraced a social ministry which enhances the quality of life of the people it seeks to serve. One of its earliest contributions to the socio-political milieu in South Africa was the education of the founder of the African National Congress Women’s League, Charlotte Manye Maxeke. In 1901, she graduated from Wilberforce University, USA, (the same University as Bishop Messiah) with a Bachelors of Science Degree, the first black female college graduate of South African descent. In her first college essay, Charlotte wrote “I wish there were more of our people here to enjoy the privileges of Wilberforce and then go back and teach our people so that our home may lose that awful name ‘the Dark Continent’ and be properly called the continent of light.” Bishop Messiah shares this same vision as Charlotte.
In 1997, he received the call to return home to become the first President of The Richard Robert Wright Theological Seminary, Evaton, South Africa - 19th Episcopal District. To show his commitment to God and the Church, he moved his family to South Africa without hesitation. He built a brand new place of worship in Pimville, (Mokone Memorial AME Church) the oldest location of Soweto. In partnership with the Beautiful Gate HIV/AIDS Ministry and Bethel AME Church, Wilmington, Delaware USA, he established the Mokone Outreach Ministries HIV/AIDS Ministry which served seventy-two persons in the community. During his administration at the Richard Robert Wright Seminary, there were more students graduating with the Diploma in Theology than at any other time in the history of the school. This led the Joint Board of Theology which oversees the academics of the fourteen Seminaries of this consortium, to upgrade the academic rating of R. R. Wright Theological Seminary. He was instrumental in the building of a place of worship on the campus of the Richard Robert Wright Theological Seminary, Bishops’ Chapel.
At the 47th Session of the General Conference of the African Methodist Episcopal Church held in Indianapolis, IN., July 5th 2004, he was elected on the first ballot and consecrated the 120th Bishop of the AME Church. This is the first time in the history of the AME Church that an African had been elected on the first ballot. He is the senior Bishop on the continent and serves as the Chairman of the Global Development Council (GDC) charged with the responsibility for growth and development of the AME Church in Africa. In keeping with the vision and mission of the African Methodist Episcopal Church, Bishop Messiah is focusing on the Infrastructural, Educational and Economic Empowerment of the Church on the continent of Africa. Since being assigned to the newly created 20th Episcopal District, comprising the countries of Zimbabwe, Malawi, Tanzania and Uganda, 2004 – 2008, Bishop Messiah is overseeing the education of some sixty clergy and lay-persons, from Elementary to University level including Theological training.
In accordance with the Doctrine and Discipline of the A.M.E Church, each Bishop in successive order of election, serves as President of the Council of Bishops for a period of twelve months. Bishop Wilfred J. Messiah will be installed as the President of the Council of Bishops of the A.M.E Church Worldwide, on 25th June 2007, Columbus Hyatt Regency Hotel, 350 North High Street, Columbus, Ohio USA. We have invited the Honorable Thabo Mvuyelwa Mbeki, President of the Republic of South Africa to be the keynote speaker at this historic event.
The Rt. Rev. Wilfred Jacobus Messiah is the son of the late Presiding Elder Paul Johannes Messiah and Dorothea Maart Messiah, married to Supervisor Carol Isabella Messiah, and the proud father of three sons William (Lisa), Justin-Micheal and Silvester, and two grand-children William Jr, and Malia-Gabrielle.
Pastoral Assignments
- Allen Chapel A.M.E. Church – Marysville, Ohio: 1984 – 1985
- Christ Our Redeemer A.M.E. Church – Cleveland Heights, Ohio: 1985 – 1988
- Ebenezer A.M.E. Church – Aliquippa, Pennsylvania: 1988 – 1990
- Trinity A.M.E. Church – Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania: 1990 -1994
- St. Paul A.M.E. Church – Beltzhoover, Pennsylvania: 1994 – 1997
- Mokone Memorial A.M.E. Church – Zone 6 - Pimville, Soweto Republic of South Africa: 1997 - 2004
Denominational, Ecumenical and Community Involvement
- Member – Cleveland Heights Interfaith Ministries 1985: Cleveland Heights, Ohio
- Founder – Black Ministerial Alliance 1988: Aliquippa, Pennsylvania
- Member – Board of Trustees A.M.E. Church 1988 -1997: Pittsburgh Annual Conference
- Member – Board of Examiners A.M.E. Church 1988 -1997: Pittsburgh Annual Conference
- Member – Greater Pittsburgh A.M.E. Ministerial Alliance: 1988 – 1997
- Member – Advisory Board - Youth Fair Chance 1990: Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
- Founding Member – Western Pennsylvania Interfaith Alliance – 1991
- Director of African Affairs – NAACP 1992 – Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
- Member – Parent Advisory Council 1994: Beltzhoover Elementary School
- Commissioner – Disparity Study Commission 1994 – 1997: City of Pittsburg
- Secretary – Pittsburgh Annual Conference 1996 – 1999
- Trustee – Wilberforce Community College 2000 – 2004: Evaton, Republic of South Africa
Submitted By the Investiture Committee
To God be the Glory – Great Things He has Done
8. UNPRECEDENTED PARTNERSHIP OPENS NEW OPPORTUNITIES FOR PAYNE THEOLOGICAL SEMINARY ON-LINE STUDENTS:
Nineteen Payne Theological Seminary on-line students from all across the United States gathered at The Lutheran Theological Seminary at Philadelphia (LTSP) March 12-16, 2007 for the inaugural Pulpit Communications class intensive taught by Rev. Dr. William D. Watley, Ph.D, Adjunct Professor at Payne and senior pastor of St. James AME Church, Newark, New Jersey.
The week was filled with great teaching and preaching. During the day, Dr. Watley’s intensive class lectures on the crafting and delivery of the sermon acquainted class participants with the principles of sermon construction and the practice of preaching. Students participated in the LTSP Urban Theological Institute’s Preaching With Power nightly worship services at Grace Baptist Church of Germantown, Tabernacle Evangelical Lutheran Church, Mt. Airy Church of God in Christ and AME Union Church.
Thursday, March 15, 2007 Dr. Leah Gaskin Fitchue, President of Payne Theological Seminary brought forth a spirit filled word at the African Methodist Episcopal Union Church. Following the word Dr. Fitchue and Dr. J. Paul Rajashekar, Dean of LTSP, announced a new partnership and signed a Letter of Agreement between the two institutions. The partnership connects both of these institutions into a shared ministry that affords Payne Theological Seminary students the opportunity to have affiliate status at Lutheran Theological Seminary at Philadelphia and take classes towards their Masters of Divinity degree at LTSP.
Payne Theological Seminary has been working with Lutheran Theological Seminary at Philadelphia over the last 12 months to develop this God inspired unprecedented partnership between the two institutions. Dr. Fitchue stated, “The partnership connects and strengthens two seminary institutions committed to excellence in theological education and will benefit countless seminary students and ultimately contribute to the well being of Christ’s church.”
Payne Theological Seminary is the oldest free-standing AME seminary in the world. Payne is accredited by the Association of Theological Schools and is located in Wilberforce, Ohio. For more information on Payne or this exciting new partnership with The Lutheran Theological Seminary at Philadelphia please contact Ms. Audrey Ling, Payne Online Program Coordinator at 937-376-294 or visit us at www.payne.edu.
By: Rev. Jules Dunham Howie, class participant (For article information please contact Rev. Howie at 410-462-0162)
9. THE GLOBAL CORNER: PRAISE & PRAYER FROM INDIA MARCH 2007:
Eastertide greetings to all of you, as you continue to uphold us in your prayers and be our source of strength and encouragement. We sincerely thank you for your constant prayer support to us and the ministry here in India.
Indeed the Lord has been very kind in guiding us and granting us the strength and courage to continue to serve God in this part of the world. We have been extremely busy with a number of preaching assignments for the past few weeks and we had been on the move, due to which we are delayed in sending our prayers reports. We had a wonderful time of ministry and God's word has gone out to hundreds of people, let us continue to pray that it may bear fruit at the right time for a plentiful harvest.
We praise God for saving the lives of Pastor Luckas and his family members in a recent fire tragedy that burnt his house and some of their belongings. Pastor Luckas is a blind person who ministers to the blind people in a blind colony. He has about 20 families who join him for worship every Sunday. Due to lack of space they gathered for worship in Pastor Luckas’ home. There are people in this vicinity who oppose the ministry of Pastor Luckas and it was they who set fire to his house. But God was gracious enough to protect Pastor's elder sister (also a blind), whom the miscreants locked inside the house before setting it on fire. We are thankful to Bishop John and Rev. Cee for their timely intervention to send financial help for the affected family to restart their life. We thank all of you for your prayers for this family as we had posted this news earlier on the Fifth District Prayer Letter.
We are happy to inform you that a Widows Fellowship was held at Pastor Morris' church, which was attended by 15-20 widows. Sarah exhorted them from the Word of God. We also shared with them rice and vegetables with the help of Pastor. Most of these widows are below the poverty line and have been deserted by their family members. In the traditional Indian society widows are treated as outcastes and also as bad omen. No one tries to relate to them in any manner. Pastor Morris reaches out to these helpless and destitute to help them remain in the Lord and witness for the Lord. It is indeed a very enriching ministry.
One, Mr. Dass who was neck-deep in debts and loans, when surrendered his life to Jesus and put his trust on God, he has been miraculously rescued from his desperate situation. He has now cleared all his debts and continues to be a good Christian.
Mrs. Malliga testifies that after having accepted Jesus as her personal saviour she and her family trusted God for good health, for the last five years God has granted them perfect health and they have not spent even a single pie for medicine or treatment. She comes from a Hindu family and prior to accepting Jesus, she and her whole family have been very sickly. All their earning used to be spent on medicines and treatments. Therefore this testimony indeed reveals to us that our God is a healing God, who not only heals but guarantees the good health of all those who trust in this God. God is our greatest health insurance.
Pastor Samuel reports that they had a joint outreach programme along with outreach group in a van, through which they have been able to reach 17 villages in the surroundings.
Mrs. Kamaktchi, a leader of a village, a Hindu, was very receptive to the gospel preaching, who invited the outreach team for prayer, later she treated them with snacks and tea. She is now a seeker who wants to know more about Jesus. In Indian village situations if a leader converts, others follow the example of the leader. This is how we have had mass conversions in the past. Let us pray that the Holy Spirit would minister to the lady and the villagers who have heard the gospel, to bring them to the cross.
One Mrs. Jayanthi who was tormented by evil spirits came to know the Lord, by surrendering her life to Jesus. She is now cleansed of the spirits and prepared to receive baptism.
In another instance a poisonous snake had bitten a cow, which was almost on the verge of death, the family called the pastor to come and pray for the healing of the cow, the pastor was away, so his wife rushed to the spot, prayed for the dying cow, administered prayer oil and miraculously the cow was cured. Praise God for this, because through this incident the family has come to know the Lord and accepted Jesus as their personal saviour. In the Indian villages cows are an important element in the life of the farmers. It is a great loss to loose a cow. This incident proves to us that God cares for humans and animals alike and in this particular case God used the animal to save the family.
In the fasting prayer at Karakkambakam, five people came to know the Lord and are now being prepared to receive baptism.
A boy named Indrajit lost his health completely and became a piece of skeleton; he was brought to the church for prayers. After prayers now he is better and slowly putting on weight. By seeing this development, his whole family has come to put their trust in Jesus and are regularly coming to the church to worship.
We sincerely request you to pray for the Tamil and Nepali congregation at Bangalore who are undergoing a crisis and also do not have a proper place to gather for worship on Sundays and other days for other activities.
In spite of the hurdles, Lord continues to let the ministries grow, so let us continue to uphold the Pastors and their untiring efforts to build the Church and expand the kingdom of God in this country. Thanking you once again.
Sarah & Abraham Peddinny
minniesarahpeddiny@yahoo.co.in
AMEC-India
10. DR. HENRIETTA S. ATTLES: SERIOUS ABOUT SERVICE:
By Sister Tracey Pratt
As a beloved wife and mother, dedicated first lady of the St. Paul African Methodist Episcopal Church and enthusiastic Christian social activist, Dr. Henrietta S. Attles is serious about service — serving her family, serving her community, and most importantly, serving her Lord as she follows the steps He has ordered for her life. I had the opportunity and pleasure to sit in fellowship with Sis Attles as she shared with me some of the roads that God has taken her down on this journey called life and her future endeavor of becoming the next 1st Vice President of the Connectional Women’s Missionary Society of the African Methodist Episcopal Church.
Sister Attles is the loving wife of Rev. Dr. LeRoy Attles, Pastor of St. Paul AME Church in Cambridge, Massachusetts. They are recent celebrants of their golden 50th wedding anniversary. The congregation recently presented the Attles with flowers in honor of this remarkable milestone in their marriage. Sister Attles acknowledged that it takes a great deal of patience and effort to sustain a marriage of 50 years. She told the congregation that communication and love are important aspects in a marriage.
One of Sister Attles greatest accomplishments has been raising her family. She is the proud mother of three successful adult children. “My children have learned to give to their community,” states Sister Attles. “They all have a profound sense of community building.” Reverend Kanice Johns is the pastor of Mt. Zion AME Church in Norristown, PA; Reverend Dr. Louis Attles is pastor of Ebenezer AME Church in Rahway, New Jersey and LeRoy Attles, Jr. is currently a Math and Science Teacher and former Aerospace Engineer in Atlanta, GA. She is proud of the achievements of each of her children and joyful that they have answered the call of God on their life.
Also high among Sister Attles’ list of accomplishments is her education; particularly her Doctoral Degree in Education. “Other than raising my family, my greatest accomplishment would be getting my Doctoral Degree,” Sis. Attles explains. With God’s wonderful grace and mercy, and a great deal of perseverance, Sis. Attles was triumphant over numerous attacks of the enemy in attaining this degree. During this turbulent period in her life, Sister Attles stood firm in her faith. Remaining patient and following God’s lead; in the fullness of time she emerged victorious with her Doctoral Degree in Education from the University of Massachusetts Amherst.
Sis Attles has over 44 years of experience in the human service, education and political arenas. She has been a teacher, speech therapist, administrator and director; just to name a few of her many occupations. Henrietta Attles was elected to the Cambridge, Massachusetts School Committee and served in this position from 1979 to 1984. She was the first African American woman ever elected to this position. During her time in office, she was instrumental in the voluntary desegregation of the Cambridge Public School System. “I believe,” Sister Attles expresses, “it was God’s will for me to serve on the school committee at that time.” This period of time was very unsettling for Cambridge and the Cambridge Public Schools. Sister Attles played a vital role in calming societal storms during her time in office. Her work was so greatly appreciated by the City of Cambridge that she was honored with a living memorial. The Henrietta Attles Meeting Room, located at the Cambridge Rindge and Latin High School, is named in her honor.
The School Committee continues to meet in this room to date.
Currently, Sister Attles is the founder and Co-President of “Our Golden Years” non-profit organization, providing education, access and socialization to senior citizens and their caregivers. This organization recently served over 70 seniors and their caregivers by inviting guest speakers, including a medical doctor, to speak on Alzheimer’s disease. The attendees were fed physically with a wonderful lunch, mentally with information from the guest speakers and socially as they sat in fellowship with each other. “I feel that every position I have served has prepared me for the next stage in my life,” says Sister Attles, “particularly my role on the school committee.” Currently, Sister Attles is campaigning for the position of 1st Vice President of the Connectional Women’s Missionary Society of the AME Church. God has well prepared her for this position based on her past experiences. As the 1st VP, Sister Attles would be responsible for facilitating Christian Social Action through the Women’s Missionary Society. If elected to this position she will bear the responsibility of giving equal opportunity, access and treatment to overseas AME districts as well as stateside districts.
If you have the opportunity to be in the presence of Dr. Henrietta Attles, you will be inspired. You will be inspired by her faith in God. You will be inspired by her willingness to let God use her as an instrument of peace. Mostly, you will be inspired by her outpouring of unconditional love toward her family, her community and the body of Christ. “Love is a learned behavior,” says Sister Attles. When posed with the question, “how do you teach a person to love?” Sis Attles graciously responded, “By loving that person unconditionally. That’s how you teach a person to love.”
“And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love.” 1 Corinthians 13:13
11. ALONG THE COLOR LINE - “BEYOND VIETNAM TO THE MADNESS OF IRAQ”:
Dr. Manning Marable
On April 4, 1967, exactly one year to the day before his assassination, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. delivered his eloquent yet controversial address, “Beyond Vietnam,” at New York City’s Riverside Church. In his sermon, Dr. King announced his moral and political reasons for opposing the U.S. military escalation in Vietnam.
“I come to this magnificent house of worship tonight,” King began, “because my conscience leaves me no other choice.” King noted that the presence of hundreds of thousands of U.S. troops in Southeast Asia had only led to the deaths of thousands of innocent victims, and had cost American taxpayers billions of dollars. “A nation that continues year after year to spend more money on military defense than on programs of social uplift is approaching spiritual death,” King observed. It was impossible for the administration of then-President Lyndon Johnson to carry out his “Great Society” social programs, or his “War on Poverty,” when billions of dollars were being reallocated to destroy Vietnamese villages, towns and homes.
As journalist Bob Herbert recently noted, King’s “Beyond Vietnam” speech “unleashed a hurricane of criticism.” Both the NAACP and black leaders such as Bayard Rustin sharply criticized King for “stepping out of his perceived area of expertise, civil rights, to raise his voice against the evil of the war.” The New York Times joined these critics, proclaiming in an editorial headline, “Dr. King’s Error.”
On April 1 this year, hundreds gathered again at Riverside Church, to celebrate the fortieth anniversary of King’s “Beyond Vietnam” address, and to link his analysis to the current national debate over U.S. military involvement in Iraq. The event featured keynote addresses by the Reverend Dr. C. T. Vivian, a veteran civil rights leader; the Reverend Dr. Joseph E. Lowery, former leader of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference; and myself. Also speaking were Mrs. Kadiatou Diallo, the mother of the martyred victim of New York police brutality, Amadou Diallo; the current SCLC President, Charles Steele, Jr.; and the Reverend Dr. Thomas Stiers, Riverside Church’s interim Senior Minister.
At one point in the Riverside Church program, scores of young people read sections of Dr. King’s “Beyond Vietnam” speech to the congregation. It was difficult to remember that Martin was talking about the tragedy of Vietnam, rather than the Iraq civil war today. King declared: “I speak for those whose land is being laid waste, whose homes are being destroyed, whose culture is being subverted … I speak as a citizen of the world, for the world as it stands aghast at the path we have taken. I speak as an American to the leaders of my own nation. The great initiative in this war is ours. The initiative to stop it must be ours.”
For Martin, it was not too late for America to halt the madness of militarism and bloody destruction. “If we will make the right choice,” he affirmed, “we will be able to transform the jangling discords of our world into a beautiful symphony of brotherhood and sisterhood.”
How would Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. respond to the current Iraq War?
King would be deeply troubled by the recent opinion polls of Iraqis conducted in January 2007 that coincided with President Bush’s so-called “surge” of U.S. military forces. Over 70 percent of all Iraqis want Americans to leave their country within months, not years. More than 60 percent of Iraqis stated that they agreed with “the killing of U.S. troops.”
President Bush insists that he alone, as Commander in Chief, is responsible for conducting war policy for the United States. King would rightly declare that Bush is ignorant of American history, and the powers of Congress as outlined in the U.S. Constitution. During both the Mexican-American War of 1846-1848, and the Civil War in 1861-1865, Congress repeatedly used its appropriations powers to restrict the executive branch’s military initiatives. In the 1970s, Congress stopped the appropriation of funds to halt President Gerald Ford’s intervention into Angola’s civil war. Congress barred President Ronald Reagan’s military support for anti-Communist Contras in Nicaragua, and cut off President Bill Clinton’s 1994 intervention in Somalia.
Two-thirds of all Americans, and over 80 percent of African Americans, want U.S. troops out of Iraq. Every day, the human costs continue to rise. Americans to date have suffered 26,000 killed and wounded soldiers, costing $500 billion that should have been invested in our schools, health care, transportation, and public housing. When U.S. bombs drop on Iraqi towns and cities, they also explode in East Los Angeles, Chicago’s South Side, and Harlem – because these billions of dollars aren’t being spent on human needs.
Dr. King would demand that Congress must use its constitutional authority to halt all appropriations for the military presence of U.S. combat forces in Iraq now. In the spirit of Dr. King, we must half the madness of the Iraq War immediately.
Dr. Manning Marable is Professor of Public Affairs, History and African-American Studies, and Director of the Center for Contemporary Black History at Columbia University. “Along the Color Line” appears in over 400 publications internationally, and is available at http://www.manningmarable.net/ .
12. ALONG THE COLOR LINE - “EX-FELON DISENFRANCHISEMENT AND THE STRUGGLE FOR VOTING RIGHTS”:
Dr. Manning Marable
At the height of the Civil Rights Movement, lawmakers who opposed African American voting rights desperately considered ways to remove large numbers of blacks from their state’s electorates without appearing to violate their constitutional rights. In the 1960s, many southern and some western states figured out how to accomplish this: by passing state constitutional provisions, or state laws, barring individuals convicted of a felony from voting for the remainder of their lives. Since African Americans were disproportionately prosecuted and convicted of felonies in most state courts, the loss of voting rights would hit blacks hardest.
This racist scheme – using the criminal justice system not to “rehabilitate” prisoners, but to strip them of their democratic voting rights for life – was successful. In 1968, Florida barred ex-offenders from voting for life. By 2000, approximately 818,000 Florida residents who had prior felony convictions, but who were no longer incarcerated, were disenfranchised. The vast majority of this disenfranchised population was African-American. None of these citizens were permitted to vote in Florida’s contested 2000 presidential election, which George W. Bush narrowly “won” by only hundreds of votes.
In the past decade, social justice, prisoners’ rights and civil rights organizations have campaigned extensively for the repeal of these repressive disenfranchisement laws. From a criminology standpoint, they are counterproductive, because they retard the re-entry and reintegration of ex-prisoners back into civil society. Hundreds of judges and even district attorneys have publicly criticized “mandatory-minimum” sentencing laws, that have been responsible for sending hundreds of thousands of mostly non-violent offenders to long prison sentences, and to disenfranchisement. As a result, a number of states that had disenfranchised ex-felons for life, such as Texas and Alabama, in recent years reformed their laws to restore voting rights to former prisoners.
By 2007, Florida had disenfranchised 950,000 citizens who had felony convictions – the vast majority of whom were black, Latino and low-income people. In an unexpected move, Florida Republican Governor Charlie Crist changed his anti-felon position, to declare that the time had come for his state to leave the “offensive minority of states that uniformly denied ex-prisoners voting rights.” On April 5, 2007, Governor Crist persuaded Florida’s clemency board to restore voting rights to about 800,000 former prisoners. Crist’s action was vigorously opposed by Florida Attorney General Bill McCollum, as well as by former governor Jeb Bush. Under the new rules, about 80 percent of the disenfranchised whose crimes were not classified as “violent” will automatically have heir voting rights restored, so long as they have paid any restitution to victims and have no pending criminal charges.
This measure will largely exclude about two hundred thousand people defined as “violent career criminals,” murderers and sexual offenders, who must submit to an investigation of their cases and a hearing before a clemency board. In practical terms, the vast majority of these former prisoners will never vote again. This raises a basic question about the “limits” of American democracy, and the danger in restricting the electoral franchise.
In every democracy throughout the world, except for most of the United States, everyone who is defined as a “citizen” has a right to vote. A “citizen” who has been convicted of any crime, including murder, remains a citizen, and thus retains his or her voting rights. In Maine and Vermont, for example, all prisoners behind bars do vote. The other 48 states are not as democratic. In only a small number of states, including Massachusetts, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Indiana, Michigan, Illinois, Oregon, and Utah, felons regain the right to vote after leaving prison. In states like New York and Colorado, former prisoners who are on parole and still under the jurisdiction of criminal justice authorities can’t vote. In a host of states, mostly in the south and far west, ex-felons who successfully complete years of parole are no longer excluded from voting. And in Virginia and Kentucky, ex-prisoners are still barred from voting for life. Conservatively, there are now five million Americans who are out of prison, and who have “repaid their debt to society,” but who temporarily or permanently cannot vote.
Recent developments in Florida represent a major, although partial, victory for the forces of democracy. In practical political terms, Governor Crist’s decision adds pressure on states like Virginia and Kentucky that still refuse to reform their ex-felon voting restrictions. Civil rights and prisoners’ rights advocates need to redouble their efforts now to overturn these legal remnants of the racist, Jim Crow segregation era.
Dr. Manning Marable is Professor of Public Affairs, History and African-American Studies, and Director of the Center for Contemporary Black History at Columbia University. “Along the Color Line” appears in over 400 publications internationally, and is available at http://www.manningmarable.net/
13. ALUMNI ASSOCIATION OF TURNER THEOLOGICAL SEMINARY EXECUTIVE BOARD AND STANDING COMMITTEE MEETING:
Alumni Association of Turner Theological Seminary
Executive Board and Standing Committee
2007-2009 Planning Meeting
April 26, 2007, 8:30 p.m. to 3 p.m.
Turner Theological Seminary, Atlanta, GA
Agenda Items:
- Turner Seniors’ Honor and Awards Banquet at 1:30 pm Paschal
- General Board and Bishops' Council June 2007
- Dean/President Jacobs' Retirement
- 114th Founders' Day Planning
- Fund Development Campaign/Turner Day Special Events
All Board Members and Standing Committees' Chair are to be PRESENT!
14. THE PASTOR’S CORNER - COMMUNION – A SYMBOL OF OUR SALVATION:
For I received from the Lord what I also passed on to you: The Lord Jesus, on the night He was betrayed, took bread, and when He had given thanks, He broke it and said, “This is my body, which is for you; do this in remembrance of me. In the same way, after supper He took the cup, saying, “This cup is the new covenant in my blood; do this, whenever you drink it, in remembrance of me. (I Corinthians 11: 23-25)
Each month, we engage in the sacrament of Holy Communion. This Communion Sunday is unique because it is also Palm Sunday, the beginning of Holy Week. Jesus entered Jerusalem on Sunday. Palm branches and cloaks were laid down before the donkey He rode. “Blessed is the King who comes in the name of the Lord. Peace in heaven and glory in the highest!” the people shouted.
Monday, Jesus drove out those who were selling in the temple. “My house will be a house of prayer, but you have made it a den of robbers.”
Tuesday, Jesus taught in the temple, revealing His authority. When questioned he asked, “John’s baptism – was it from heaven, or from men?” When His question was avoided he replied, “Neither will I tell you by what authority I am doing these things.” Then, Jesus taught on things to come.
Wednesday, Satan entered Judas to betray Jesus. Judas went to the chief priest and temple guard who gave him money. He then watched for an opportunity to betray Jesus.
Thursday, Jesus ate the Passover meal with His disciples. The Lord, Jesus Christ instructed us to do the same in remembrance of Him. This tradition now symbolizes our Holy Communion with God through Jesus Christ. Let’s take some time, using the Bible and the AME Catechism, to learn more about this most sacred symbol of our salvation.
First, “What is Holy Communion?” I Corinthians 10: 14-17 tells us the Holy Communion is the becoming of oneness between Christ Jesus and His Church through partaking of His Body and Blood through the use of bread and wine (or grape juice) substitutes. The cup and the bread have special meaning in the Christian faith. The cup is a participation in the blood of Christ. Just as the Hebrews sprinkled the blood of the Passover lamb (Exodus 12: 7) on the doorpost of their houses, the blood of the Lamb, Jesus Christ is sprinkled on the doorpost of our hearts. The blood is a sign to God for those who have escaped destruction by the wrath of God (Exodus 12: 13).
The bread is a participation in the body Christ. The removal of yeast symbolizes the removal of sin from our lives (Exodus 12: 15). The unleavened bread represents our being brought out of bondage to sin (Exodus 12: 17).
Second, “How do we take Holy Communion?” Matthew 26: 26-30 reminds us we take Holy Communion in a prayerful attitude and with thankful hearts at the altar upon our knees. Jesus prayerfully gave thanks to the Father. Later, Jesus and the disciples sang a hymn. The communion with Christ at the Passover meal was a service of worship of the Father. For us, this denotes reverence and humility before God the Father.
Third, “What process do we believe takes place in Holy Communion?” John 6: 22-71 tells the story of how Jesus helped His disciples to understand that our communion with Him finds its reality in the spirit. Therefore, we do not believe the elements of bread and wine actually change into our Lord’s body and blood. But we do believe that in our act of eating the bread and drinking the wine (or grape juice) that we enter into union with our Lord Jesus Christ, if we have a repenting, believing heart. In John 6: 26-27, Jesus explains that the physical bread is not what is important but the “food that endures to eternal life, which the Son of Man will give you.”
Jesus declared (John 6: 35), “I am the bread of life. He who comes to me will never go hungry, and he who believes in me will never be thirsty.” Jesus repeated His declaration that He is the bread, not the physical bread we eat, by saying, “I am the bread…” (v.35; v.48; v.51).
In John 6: 61-63, Jesus describes how His physical body will ascend into heaven. He explained, “The Spirit gives life; the flesh counts for nothing.” “The words I have spoken to you are spirit and they are life.” Not the physical substance of Christ’s flesh. Our belief in Christ is what brings salvation, not the physical bread or grape juice we consume. We receive Christ in our spirit so the bread and juice are symbolic of the spiritual communion that exists between Christ and the believer.
Fourth, “Why do we take Holy Communion?” Luke 22: 14-20 expresses that we take Holy Communion because our Lord Jesus Christ commanded all who love Him and who seek to follow after Him to eat His body and drink His blood (through bread and wine elements). “He took bread and gave it to them…In the same way, He took the cup.” We have now entered into covenant with God through Jesus Christ. We renew the covenant each time we celebrate the Holy Communion. We are to remember His ministry, suffering, death, and resurrection that redeemed all believers from sin. Jesus said, (Luke 22: 16) “I will not eat it again until it finds fulfillment in the kingdom of God.” Jesus later said, (Luke 22:19c) “…do this in remembrance of me.” Paul later told us, (I Corinthians 11: 26) we “proclaim the Lord’s death until He comes.”
Finally comes the question, “Who is worthy of Holy Communion?” Romans 3: 23-28 reminds us that none is worthy to enter into union with Jesus Christ, for “we all have sinned and come short of the glory of God”. The corrections listed in I Corinthians 11 addressed those who conducted a private feast before calling others to the communion table (I Corinthians 11: 17-34). This was the unworthy manner Paul spoke of.
But we take the Holy Communion in faith that God through Christ is able and willing to forgive us of our sins and through His grace justify us for communion with Him. We have all sinned and fall short of the glory of God. We’re all justified freely by God’s grace – unmerited, undeserved, unearned favor. We are redeemed through Christ Jesus, not our own acts of righteousness. Our faith in Jesus Christ accesses the forgiveness that is ours through Christ’s sacrifice in payment for our sins. We are justified by faith.
On Thursday of Holy week, Jesus ate the Passover meal with His disciples. The Lord, Jesus Christ instructed us to do the same in remembrance of Him. Our Holy Communion with God through Jesus Christ is remembered through this most sacred symbol of our salvation.
The Rev. James M. Moody is the pastor of Quinn Chapel AME Church, 2401 S. Wabash Ave Chicago, IL 60616
15. EPISCOPAL FAMILY NOTICE:
Former Episcopal Supervisor, the Rev. Rosalyn Brookins, wife of the Right Reverend Hamel Hartford Brookins is recovering from surgery. She is still hospitalized from a broken hip. Please send get well wishes to her home:
5849 S. Orlando Avenue
Los Angeles, CA 90056
(323) 291-0526 Email get-well wishes to: rrosethequeen@aol.com Please pray for her swift recovery. Submitted by:Mrs. Annie BoldenAdministrative Assistant5th Episcopal District AME ChurchOffice: (323) 730-7706
16. EPISCOPAL FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
From: SLGreenSr@aol.com
Bishop Samuel Lawrence Green, Sr.
Mrs. Daisy B. White, grandmother of Supervisor Ava S. B. Green passed on March 29, 2007. Funeral Services for Mrs. Daisy White were held Saturday, April 7, 2007 at First Baptist Missionary Baptist Church in Yulee, Florida. Condolences and expressions of sympathy may be sent to:Supervisor Ava S. B. GreenP.O. Box 8Killarney, FL 34740E-mail: AvaSBGreen@aol.com
Please remember Supervisor Green and her family in your prayers.
17. CLERGY FAMILY CONGRATULATORY NOTICES:
- Mrs. Rosie Banks of the Arkansas Conference, 12th Episcopal District and Life Member of the Women's Missionary Society of the African Methodist Episcopal Church since 1977 will celebrate her 100th Birthday. A celebration will be held on Sunday, April 15th during the 10:45 am Worship Service at Lee Chapel A.M.E. Church in North Little Rock, AR. Sister Banks is the widow of The Reverend W. B. Banks, who served as Presiding Elder of the Little Rock District and the North Little Rock/Ft. Smith District for many years.
Birthday cards may be sent to:Mrs. Rosie Banks327 West 21st StreetNorth Little Rock, AR 72114501-758-1615
Email congratulatory messages for Mrs. Banks may be sent to her son, Walter: WaltBank1@aol.com
- Dr. and Mrs. Clement Fugh, General Church Secretary/CIO of the African Methodist Episcopal Church, announce the marriage of their daughter, Marcia Dionne to Mr. Paul Steven Joseph, II on Saturday, the twenty-six of May, Two Thousand and seven at three o'clock in the afternoon - Greater Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church, Nashville, Tennessee.
Email congratulatory messages may be sent to: MDFugh@yahoo.com
- The University of Memphis in Memphis, Tennessee announces commencement exercises to be held on Saturday, May 5, 2007 at 10 o'clock at the FedEx Forum. Graduating with a Bachelors of Art Degree in Journalism, Dennis Dickerson son of Dr. and Mrs. Dennis Dickerson, Historiographer/Executive Director, Research and Scholarship of the African Methodist Episcopal Church.
Email congratulatory messages may be sent to: MaryDickerson@comcast.net
18. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
With deep sorrow, we report the recent passing of our beloved First Lady, the honorable Yvonne Ingram-Ephraim, the wife and partner in ministry to our pastor, the Rev. Michael G. Ephraim, Sr., Sixth Episcopal District, Augusta Georgia Conference, Wrens-Vidalia District of the African Methodist Episcopal Church.
The following information has been provided regarding service arrangements.
Professional Service Entrusted to:
Ingram Brother Funeral Home
249 Spring Street
Sparta, Georgia 31087
(706) 444-6436
(706) 444-6301 (fax)
Condolences may be sent to:
The Reverend Michael G. Ephraim, Sr.
Mr. Earnest "Jack" Ingram
355 Powelton Avenue
Sparta, Georgia 31087
Or
P.O. Box 265
Sparta, Georgia 31087
(706) 444-8143
(706) 444-5003
(706) 444- 7093 (fax)
MGEphraim@aol.com
Memorial Celebration:
Wednesday, April 11, 2007
7:00 p.m.
Hickory Grove Missionary Baptist Church
4933 Hickory Grove Church Road
Sparta, Georgia 31087
The Reverend Michael Curry, Host Pastor
(706) 444-5880
Homegoing Celebration:
Thursday, April 12, 2007
1:00 p.m.
Stone Springfield A.M. E. Church
7476 Highway 296
P.O. Box 96
Stapleton, Georgia 30823
The Reverend Michael G. Ephraim, Sr., Host Pastor
The Right Reverend William Phillips DeVeaux, eulogist
The Reverend Michael Curry, eulogist
(706) 547-2395(706) 547-6430 (fax)LoftonCiruit@aol.comhttp://www.loftoncircuit.org/
In lieu of flowers, please make donations payable to:Hancock County Relay for LifeC/O -Yvonne Ingram-Ephraim
Mail to:
Bank of Hancock County
12855 Broad Street
Sparta, Georgia 31087
(706) 444- 5781
Or:
Ingram Brothers Funeral Home, Inc.
249 Spring Street
Sparta, Georgia 31087
(706) 444-6436
19. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
The Rev. Dr. Ida Willis Keener, Presiding Elder of the San Antonio District of the Southwest Texas Conference and members mourn the loss of Rev. Urel Green, a superannuated pastor. His last pastoral charge was St. Paul A.M.E. Church - Flatonia, TX.
Service Arrangements held for Rev. Urel Green:
Memorial Service
Wednesday, April 4, 2007
2:00 P.M.
Services were entrusted to:Ritchea-Gonzales Funeral Home120 S. McCall StreetSinton, Texas361-364-1311
Condolences may be sent to his wife:Sister Emma GreenP.O. Box 163Sinton, Texas 78387361-364-5341
Submitted by:
Rev. Dr. Sherryl A. Matlock-Pastor
St. James A.M.E. Church
Denton, Texas
20. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
Funeral Services for Ms. Mary F. Rockingham, President of the Chicago Conference Lay Organization, will be held:
Monday, April 9
Trinity A.M.E. Church
210 South Avenue
Waukegan, IL
Tel.: 847-623-8529
The Reverend Reginald Blount, Pastor
10 a.m. Visitation
11 a.m. Service
Members of Bradshaw & Range (Funeral Home), 2513 W. Dougdale Road in Waukegan is assisting her family.
(847-662-3553)
21. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
Ms. Willie B. Flowers Phillips is the mother of Rev. James H. Phillips, III, Presiding Elder of the Austin Capital District of the 10th Episcopal District and Sister Diana Phillips. Sister Phillips is President of Ester Gordon Women's Missionary Society, St. James A.M.E. Church in Dickinson, Texas.
Homegoing Celebration: Friday, April 13, 2007 St. John A.M.E. Church 1012 E. Main Street Brenham, Texas 77833 979-836-4156 The viewing of the body: 10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.Funeral services: 12:00 Noon
Final Arrangements Entrusted to:
Grimes Funeral Home
3900 Holmes Road
Houston, Texas 77051
713-733-3336
Condolences may be sent to:
The Rev. James H. Phillips, III
2447 Covington Way
Pearland, Texas 77584
281-485-6749
Or
Sister Diana Phillips
16135 Coyridge Lane
Houston, Texas 77053
281-438-8093
Submitted by:
Rev. Dr. Sherryl A. Matlock-Pastor
St. James A.M.E. Church
Denton, Texas
22. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
With deep sorrow, we report the passing of our beloved mother, the Reverend Iceola Starling on Monday, April 08, 2007, at the age of 92 yrs.
Rev. Starling was ordained in 1962 by late Bishop Joseph Gomez - 4th Episcopal District African Methodist Episcopal Church. She was appointed pastor of Mary F. Butler Memorial A.M.E. Church, Chicago, September 1988 by the late Bishop S.S. Morris, where she served with distinction until 1996.
A faithful and devoted Servant in the African Methodist Episcopal Church serving mostly in the 4th Episcopal District, Chicago Conference. Even after her failing health she served under the current pastor, the Rev. Josie L. Smith of Butler Memorial A.M.E. Church.
Service Arrangements:
Thursday, April 12, 2007
Wake: 6:00 Pm - 7:00 p.m.
Home Going Worship:
7:00 Pm. - 9:00 p.m.
Carey Tercentenary A.M.E. Church
1448 South Homan Ave.
Chicago, Il
Memorial Service:
Saturday Morning
April 14, 2007 - 11:00 A.M.
London Chapel A.M.E. Church
Barton Clay Ferry Road
West Point, Mississippi
Condolences and expressions of sympathy may be sent:
Deaconess Dorothy I. Robinson [daughter]
159 Bohland Avenue
Bellwood, Illinois
(708) 547-8650 phone
Or
Mr. Clephus Witherspoon [son]
3894 Jim Griffin Road
West Point, MS 69773
(662) 494-6655 phone
Condolences and expressions of sympathy may be sent:
Deaconess Dorothy I. Robinson [daughter]
159 Bohland Avenue Bellwood, Illinois
(708) 547-8650 phone
Or
Mr. Clephus Witherspoon [son]
3894 Jim Griffin Road
West Point, MS 69773
(662) 494-6655 phone
Submitted by:Rev. Annie Brooks
23. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
This comes to inform you that Mrs. Idell Martin Chatman, the grandmother of the Reverend W. R. (Teresa) Norful, Sr. (pastor, St. John, Pine Bluff, AR) has died.
Arrangements are as follows:
Funeral Services:Saturday, April 14, 2007
Mt. Olivet Baptist Church
451 Central Avenue West
St. Paul, Minnesota 55103
(651) 227-4444
Professional Services entrusted to:
Spielman Mortuary
344 University Avenue West
St Paul, MN 55103
(651) 222-6363
(615) 222-6364 Fax
The family can receive condolences via:Reverend and Mrs. W. R. Norful, Sr., and family206 North Poplar StreetPine Bluff, AR 71601\Email condolences to: RABBI3@Prodigy.net
Or:
Mrs. Faye Neal (Rev. Norful's mother) and Rev. and Mrs. W.R. Norful, Sr., and Family
1016 Aurora
St. Paul, MN 55104
Submitted by:
Anita Brannon
12th Episcopal District Office Manager
24. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
Mrs. Sarah Bettison, the sister of Rev. Wilbert (Jeanie) Gray has died.
Service Arrangements:FuneralApril 14, 200711:00 a.m.St. Mark Missionary Baptist Church802 Pavibe StreetBenton Harbor, MI
Services have been entrusted to:
Robbins Brothers Funeral Home
204 South Fair Avenue
Benton Harbor, MI 49022
Phone: 269-927-3181.
Condolences may be sent to:
The Reverend and Mrs. Wilbert Gray and family
170 Auriel Circle
Maumell, AR 72113
(501) 809-4342.
Submitted by:Anita Brannon12th Episcopal District Office Manager
25. FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
Funeral Services for Ms. Mary F. Rockingham, President of the Chicago Conference Lay Organization, were held:
Monday, April 9
Sign of the Dove Church
424 10th Street
Waukegan, IL
11 a.m. - Visitation12 p.m. - Homegoing Celebration
Sister Rockingham was a member of Trinity African Methodist Episcopal Church, where the Reverend Dr. Reginald Blount is the Pastor. Members of Bradshaw & Range (Funeral Home), 2513 W. Dougdale Road in Waukegan is assisting her family.
(847-662-3553)
Submitted by:The Reverend Albert D. Tyson, III
26. 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
27. 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.
