THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER ONLINE ENGLISH EDITION (5/26/07)

Bishop Gregory G. M. Ingram - Chair, Commission on Publications
The Reverend Dr. Johnny Barbour, Jr., Publisher
The Reverend Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III, Editor


A NOTE FROM THE EDITOR: I believe that I am caught up from my recovery period from my bi-lateral knee replacement surgery. I had no idea that the anesthetic would take so long to get out of my system.

Again thanks for your prayers.

1. BISHOP McKENZIE TO PREACH AT THE HAMPTON UNIVERSITY MINISTERS’ CONFERENCE AND THE AME LUNCHEON WILL BE HELD ON THURSDAY:

The 93rd Annual Hampton University Ministers’ Conference and 73rd Annual Choir Directors’ Organists’ Guild will be held June 3 – June 8, 2007, on the beautiful campus of Hampton University. Once again, HU will host a variety of exceptional ministers.

Among the nationally acclaimed speakers for the conference is, Bishop Vashti McKenzie, Presiding Prelate of the 13th Episcopal District of the AME Church. Additional information about the HU Ministers’ Conference can be obtained from www.hamptonu.edu .

The AME Luncheon will be held on Thursday at 1:30 p.m. at the Radisson Hotel, now renamed, the Hampton Marina Hotel - 700 Settlers Landing Road Hampton, VA. The cost of the luncheon, and it’s really a dinner, will be $25.00 per person.

Signup, to assist us in getting a count, may be done at the Religious Studies display booth in the Convocation Center.

Please pass the word, “The AME Luncheon will be held on Thursday, June 7, 2007 at 1:30 at the Radisson Hotel, now renamed, the Hampton Marina Hotel - 700 Settlers Landing Road Hampton, VA.”

2. WE HAVE COME A LONG WAY: A POSITION PAPER ON BEHALF OF THE LAITY:

Dr. Jamye Coleman Williams

Each time I have stood in a connectional meeting, whether to suggest (at the 2004 meeting of the General Board in Nashville) that we need to be more sensitive to the Joshua generation; or (at the 2000 Session of the General Conference) to introduce a special resolution to instruct the Episcopal Committee to recommend the election of a woman; or (at the 2004 Session of the General Conference) to propose what came to be a controversial resolution on “One Possible Solution to the Problem of Accountability,” I have done so because I was convinced of the validity of the issue.

I am sure that at one time or another each of us has come to the same conclusion as did Martin Luther King, Jr., when he preached at Riverside Church to oppose the escalation of the military struggle in Viet Nam. He spoke because his conscience left him no other choice. Each time I have stood on the floor or on the platform to introduce a special resolution; I have done so only after long periods of deliberating with myself and invoking the help of the Holy Spirit. So it is also true at this moment in my 60-year odyssey in African Methodism as I write, on behalf of the Connectional Lay Organization, this position paper.

The current discussion in the connectional church regarding the necessity of biennial meetings of the Connectional Lay Organization reminds me that too often we forget our history—or in many cases have no knowledge of it. The history of the Lay Organization stretches back so far that few of us now on the scene were present when—after many years of struggle and strong opposition—the Connectional Lay Organization was established.

Our Organization has evolved through three stages of growth and development. The first stage occurred in 1912 when the Laymen’s Missionary League was organized through the initiation of Professor Charles H. Johnson of Wilberforce University. This event took place at the 24th Session of the General Conference, which met in Kansas City, MO. Four years later at the 1916 Session of the General Conference in Philadelphia, through the leadership of Dr. Carl V. Roman—a noted Greek scholar at Fisk University—the name was changed to the Connectional Lay College, which met only at the site of the General Conference and whose membership consisted of the lay delegates to that session.

It was discovered, consequently, in these early years of the Lay College that an organization which met but once every four years, and with a constantly changing membership, could not effectively organize and develop lay leadership to contribute to the general welfare of African Methodism.

In 1946 because of a serious crisis in the episcopacy, the first and only Extra Session of the General Conference was convened November 20-24 in Robinson Auditorium in Little Rock, AR. In addition to resolving the volatile problem that confronted African Methodism, the Extra Session also witnessed the birth of the Connectional Lay Organization. Attorney Herbert L. Dudley, President of the Lay College, convened the duly elected delegates to the 32nd Session of the General Conference who were in attendance at the Extra Session. The purposes of the meeting were to consider abolishing the Lay College, which met quadrennially at the seat of the General Conference, and establishing a permanent organization with a structure paralleling that of the General Conference, with Connectional, District, Conference, and Local Units. In addition, according to Attorney Dudley, “After much serious, prayerful, and thoughtful consideration, the delegates voted unanimously to hold all future meetings biennially rather than every four years.” The rationale was that biennial meetings would allow the time to develop goals, programs, and activities. Further, they would provide the opportunity to create, emphasize, and develop lay consciousness.

Although these actions were resented by some well-intentioned but misinformed individuals, the official pronouncement from the Bench of Bishops to that 1946 Extra Session of the General Conference affirmed that “African Methodism needs a vigorous, healthy and well-informed laity” which in turn would “produce a productive and a dynamic church.” The statement further confirmed that one of the hopeful signs in the church was the discontent among some of the laity. Because African Methodism is revolutionary by nature, discontent should not be discouraged because an inactive and unintelligent laity can do great damage to the church. Inasmuch as the pressures of democracy are felt in all areas of our lives, it is naturally felt in our church government.

Despite this strong statement, during the early years following 1946 the lay movement was viewed by some with suspicion and hostility. The influence of the Lay Organization was bought with a price. We, therefore, must not forget the sacrifice and struggle of the early leaders to ensure that the laity would have a meaningful voice in Church affairs. It required courage to attend connectional lay meetings because one would be viewed as being opposed to constituted authority. It was Attorney Dudley, President of the Organization from 1936-1940 and from 1944 to 1963, who made a great contribution by bringing all suspicious factions together.

His successor, Mr. J.D. Williams of Kansas City, MO, was a man of independent thought who motivated the Organization and created a new enthusiasm. Mr. Joseph C. McKinney, Treasurer of the AME Church and consultant to the Lay Organization, was an influence during his tenure in moving the Organization to a greater level of respect and acceptance than it had experienced previously.

According to Dr. Dennis C. Dickerson, Historiographer/Director of the Department of Research and Scholarship, lay participation in the evolution of the Church was crucial at several stages of the denomination’s development. Lay men and women were founders of congregations and important participants in various annual conferences. For example, Priscilla Baltimore helped William Paul Quinn establish in St. Louis in 1841 the first AME church west of the Mississippi. In Los Angeles, Biddy Mason was crucial in the founding of First AME Church.

Given our history, we must in our own time continue to be an active, viable unit in our Church. We must continue to be a part of its many constructive and worthwhile movements as we have in the past. Some of the most progressive legislation enacted by General Conferences has had the support of the voting strength of the laity. The Lay Organization was an influence in passing the legislation which created the Pension Department in 1944. It was a part of the movement to establish a budget at the 35th Session of the General Conference in Miami in 1956.

When the budget was adopted on that May 10th day, a dramatic demonstration erupted which lasted for an hour. Led by a band marching down the aisle, Brotherhood members followed, to be joined by hundreds of ministers, laymen, and laywomen. The memory is still vivid in my mind since my husband, McDonald Williams, a delegate from the 3rd Episcopal District, and I were a part of the victory march. It is interesting to note that in this newly-established General Budget Fund, under Administration Fund, the Laymen Activities Fund was included.

It is, therefore, also a matter of great concern to hear objections to the financing of lay activities. Statistics confirm that the laity of the AME Church contributes 93% of our total connectional budget. In addition, the assertion that the Connectional Lay Organization has a membership not reflective of the total laity of the Church is disingenuous. We would remind those who so argue that the 435 members of the House of Representatives of the United States Congress do represent all the citizens of our country. Our Connectional Lay Organization does, indeed, represent those nameless, numberless AME’s--wherever they may be--who never go beyond the boundaries of their local church, but whose interests nevertheless must be served. Our Church, like our Nation, is based on the concept of “representative government.”

We would further be reminded of the trenchant and enduring words of Bishop Reverdy Cassius Ransom when he declared, “The Bishops, Elders, and Deacons do not constitute the Church. The heart and center of the Church consists of laymen and laywomen who constitute one body working together under law, custom, and tradition to achieve the ends which, from the beginning, the Church was established to serve.” In the words of Lawrence Jones, former Dean of the Chapel at both Fisk University and Howard University, “The future of the whole black church is directly dependent on effective lay leadership. It is the financial and service resources of the laity that move the church.”

To the question, “What, then, does the Lay Organization do?” this is the response:

- It holds workshops to train the laity
- It continues to emphasize the noble objectives of the Lay Organization:
- To instill a love for and an appreciation of our history, traditions, and principles;
- To keep alive the memory of Richard Allen, our founder;
- To advocate respect and loyalty to constituted authority and leadership;
- To encourage support of the total program of the Church;
- To study The Doctrine and Discipline of the AME Church.


We have come a long way! In this the first decade of a new millennium, we look back on the history and legacy of the lay movement and gratefully acknowledge that it was bought with a price. We, therefore, are called to remember that from the balcony those dedicated Christian men and women who loved African Methodism look down upon us today and contemplate our actions. From Professor Charles H. Johnson to Dr. Carl V. Roman, to Mr. Malone, to Dr. R.R. Williams, to Attorney Herbert Dudley, to Mr. J.D. Williams, to Mr. Arthur Brown, all of whom have moved on to eternity, we owe a debt of gratitude. To Mr. J. L. Williams, Dr. Kathryn Brown, and Mr. Jesse Burns we are obligated to keep alive the mutual spirit of independence and cooperation. In the advice of Paul to the Corinthians: “Keep alert, stand firm in your faith, be courageous, be strong. Let all that you do be done in love.” And to God be the glory!

Works consulted:

Howard D. Gregg, History of the AME Church (1980)
The AME Church Review, April-June, 1985
Official Minutes, 35th Session of the General Conference, May, 1956

3. THE RIGHT REVEREND RICHARD NORRIS AND MOTHER NORRIS PROVIDED SUPERB LEADERSHIP FOR THE 121ST SESSION OF THE BERMUDA ANNUAL CONFERENCE:

The 121st Session of the Bermuda Annual Conference got underway on March 8th, 2007 at the Fairmont Southampton Hotel and Resort under the Leadership of our Episcopal team of Bishop Richard Franklin Norris and Mother Maryann Norris.

Rev. Dr. Wilbur Lowe Jr. officially called the 121st Session in the Mid Ocean Amphitheatre to order as the Ministers, Pastors, Presiding Elders and Bishop Richard F. Norris along with many Dignitaries and Members and Friends of the African Methodist Episcopal churches gathered together for worship.

The worship experience was beaming with excitement as it was unfolding. The Conference Choir under the direction of Brother Anthony Wolfe ministered with excellence. The Rev. Dr. Micah Chandler of Heard Chapel A.M.E. Church was the Keynote speaker for this event. He spoke on the topic “Dried Brook University” based on the scripture 1 Kings 17:2-7. His message was well received.

The Conference was moved to pay special recognized to Dr. Duranda Greene who became the college’s first female and the youngest president to head the two-year community college. Dr. Greene is also the proud member of Mt. Zion A.M.E Church. She will take over from Dr. Charles Green April 1 2007.

The ministerial delegates to the General Conference: Presiding Elder Rev. Malcolm L. Eve, Rev. Betty L. Furbert-Woolridge, and the Rev. Lanel Guyton (the delegate that has never been before).
The Alternate Delegates: Rev. Dr. Wilbur Lowe, Jr.; Rev. Lorne Bean and the Rev. Pedro A. Castro Jr. (the delegate that has never been before).
The Lay Electoral College Delegates are: Sisters Donna Lee Chandler and Diann Matthews (Adult delegates), Sister Waynette Brangman (Youth delegate) with Brother Victor Fishington and Sister Duranda Green (Alternate delegates) and Brother Ralph Trott (Alternate Youth Delegate).

Sister Valerie Smith was elected as the President of the Conference Women’s Missionary Society. The outgoing president, Sister Linda Smith was commended for her work with the WMS.

The Lay sponsored an all male concert, featuring Choirs from various A.M.E. Churches; special guest were Brother Richard Norris II, Organist, along with Brother Tony Smith, Saxophonist. These came together to render praises unto God. What a night of talent and spiritual revitalization!

Friday, March 10th was Christian Education Night. This was a night were the youth were celebrated; and they were celebrated in style! There were Poster contests from ages 7-12; there was Bible jeopardy with Host and Co-Host Rev. Pedro Castro, Jr and Rev. Stephanie Castro. Then came the moment every one was waiting for - the crowning of the Bermuda A.M.E. Youth of the Year. The out-going Youth of the year was Sister Natasha Butterfield who greeted the conference with eloquence. Than there was the crowning of the A.M.E Youth of the Year who won in all the categories, Sister Kamala Burgess the younger daughter of Rev. Dr. Milton and Gloria Burgess and younger sister to Rasheeda.


Itinerant Orders were bestowed upon Gilbert St. Clair Hayward, elected and ordained a Deacon in the African Methodist Episcopal Church. The Reverend Joyce Victoria Chesley Hayward and the Reverend Cyril Sookram Simmons were elected and ordained an Itinerant Elder in the African Methodist Episcopal Church.

At this 121st Annual Conference various resolutions were made:

1. To address the affordable housing crises in Bermuda, the AME church embarks on an economic empowerment initiative that provides AME members the opportunity to become homeowners.

2. That the model instituted by The Rev. Floyd Flake, Pastor of Greater Allen Cathedral of Jamaica, New York which is similar to the locally run programme that is led by The Hon. Dale Butler, JP, MP and Mr. Rodney Smith, be emulated.

3. That as part of the economic empowering programme, Financial Management Instruction be an integral part of the local church calendar of events.

4. That the AME Church adopts and implements the comprehensive gang model as presented by Mr. Calvin Ming at the District Conference 2006, which comprised of five core strategies, namely: Community mobilization; Provision of opportunities; Social intervention; suppression; Organizational change and Development to the body of our Zion.

5. That this body boldly address the glaring omission of coverage of AME Church events.

6. That those Ministerial persons of the conference join together for a ministerial retreat that will focus on fine tuning their ministerial skills so that they can better serve their congregations and communities.

7. That in this Pentecostal age, the AME Church honestly examine how receptive it is to welcome the ministering and operation of the gifts of the Holy Spirit.

8. That the AME Church seeks to become inter-generational (from the cradle to the grave), in meeting the needs of the congregants.

9. That the recommendations of the Education commission Report-Homework club proposal be operational in three church locations, but supported by all 11 churches.

10. That the funding of the Homework club would be curtailed by the volunteer services provided by current and or retired school teaches, returning college students, other volunteers and food contributions.

11. That the East-West district encourages more youth participation at district level to give our youth more exposure to their church.

12. That the challenges of growth and retention, both within the church school and general membership be strategically addressed, primarily by means of prayer and fasting followed by the activation agencies.

13. That the department of Evangelism works in concert with the Bermuda Ministerial Alliance of the Bermuda Annual Conference to effectively evangelize Bermuda.

14. That the efforts are waged against sin, the AME Ministerial alliance of the AME Church continue their relationship United by Faith, a Government initiative.

15. That the AME Ministerial Alliance and membership of the African Methodist Episcopal church in Bermuda, assiduously and commissions coming out of this 121st Session of the Bermuda Annual conference.

Submitted by

Reporter to the Church Press
Rev. Dr. Milton E. R. Burgess Ph.D., J.P.
Pastor - St. Philip A.M.E. Church
102 Harrington Sound Road
Smith’s Parish HS 01
Bermuda

4. ST. LUKE A.M.E. CHURCH, GALLATIN, TN - SMALL IN NUMBER, MIGHTY IN STATURE:

On April 22, 2007, the Reverend Robert Keesee, Presiding Elder, came to conduct the quarterly conference meeting. He preached for the morning service, "Where do we go from Here?" The Nehemiah Nation Male Chorus provided the music for the occasion. Reverend Keesee received 100 percent reporting from all church organizations and said St. Luke was doing a good job. Acknowledgement was given to Sister Almeda Bragg, age 97, and the Almeda Bragg Women's Missionary Society and an announcement was made regarding a special recognition program to be held the following Sunday.

Tamiko Black
Fisk University
tblack@fisk.edu

5. SPECIALIST JOEL DANDRIDGE WAS SERIOUSLY WOUNDED IN AFGHANISTAN ON MAY 4, 2007:

We are at Walter Reed Army Medical Center in Washington DC to support our son, Joel, who was severely wounded in Afghanistan. We solicit and greatly appreciate your heartfelt prayers and donations of emergency assistance as we travel to be with him. We are not sure how long we will need to be there. Joel has just been told that his leg has been amputated. He was operated on Friday May 4, 2007 in Afghanistan. They prevented shock, controlled the bleeding, and implemented pain control. On Saturday he was medically evacuated to Landstuhl, Germany and had further surgery performed which resulted in partial removal of his intestine, colon, and bowel; amputation of his right leg below the knee and screws placed in his left knee and muscle removed from his thigh. The bullets were left in him because of extensive damage. He was cleaned out once again Sunday and operated on again.

Joel is only twenty years of age and has a twin sister who lives in Cincinnati.

Contributions may be sent to the following: JOEL DULASHANTI DANDRIDGE RECOVERY FUND, First Community Bank of Bedford County, 207 Elm Street, P.O. Box 1027. Shelbyville, TN 37162

The Reverends John and Janie Dandridge are both pastors in the Tennessee Annual Conference
615-512-6807 or 615-796-7098

6. A SMALL RURAL CHURCH THAT THINKS BIG:

By Rev. Herman L. Massingale, pastor, Peachburg Circuit, Union Springs, Alabama

According to Dr. George R. La Sure as published in The Christian Recorder: Vol. 156, No 10 February 12, 2007, a bright rural and small membership future? …not without planning, “Since the average church in the body of the African Methodist Church denomination represents rural and small membership churches ranging from 10 to 250 members…a growth strategy is needed.”

St. John AME and Hardaway AME of, which makes up the Peachburg Circuit in rural Bullock County, Alabama with a combined membership of 118 certainly fits within Dr. La Sure classification. Rev. Herman L. Massingale, Master of Ministry is the pastor. Rev. Thomas Crossley is the Presiding Elder of Tuskegee District of the East Alabama Conference under Bishop T. Larry Kirkland.

The Peachburg Circuit growth strategy involves equipping and meeting the needs of the locals and then they will share with others.
Rev. Massingale said that rural churches in this area seem to embrace activities that allow fellowship with neighboring congregations. So, during Holy Week the Peachburg Circuit performed a play in commemoration of Jesus’ Last Supper with his disciples as a means of spiritual fellowship. We also host and participate in the 7 last words of Christ with several local AME and Baptist Pastors.

The Preachburg Circuit also has as ongoing youth ministries such as praise dance teams, vacation bible school, quarterly youth led worship services and youth fall festival as an alternative to Halloween.

We believe that small churches would focus on meeting the local needs of the people vitality will be evident. God will work the ends of spiritual growth and soul winning.

The Peachburg Circuit performed “The Living Last Supper Play” on Holy Thursday April 5, 2007. This play was adapted from the play written by Ernest K. Emurian. The setting was from The Last Supper painting by Leonardo Da Vinci. The men of our church spoke their minds as if they had been back there some 2000 years ago having walked with Jesus , having witnessed Jesus teachings, miracles, and shocking statement that one of them would betray him. The men involved faith was deepened as they shared with the audience what they would have felt had they had been an Apostle of Jesus Christ that night.

The Presiding Elder Thomas E. Crossley and Pastor Herman Massingale administered Holy Communion at the end of the play.

7. CHURCH 'GETS THE WORD OUT' IN TIME; ST. PHILIP MONUMENTAL AME WILL HAVE DISTRIBUTED SOME 10,000 BIBLES:

*Paula Williamson

The Rev. George Moore blesses the leaders of St. Philip Monumental
AME Church and 10,000 Bibles as the stewards and trustees prepare to distribute Bibles to church members, visitors and the Savannah community.

Sunday's services at St. Philip Monumental AME on Jefferson Street had the pastor, the Rev. George A. Moore Jr., smiling. His vision of promoting Christianity in Savannah is coming to fruition.

As part of that vision, the church on Sept. 17 launched a "Get the Word Out" Bible distribution campaign. Moore and church leaders prayed over stacks of Bibles, asking God to bless and help those who receive them.

Moore, who came to St. Philip Monumental two years ago, said, "I want to make sure we promote Christianity in the Savannah community. We believe that in these times, God's Word is needed for God's people."

Moore said it should be a priority of every believer to live and spread the Word of God.

"(The Bible) is more than feel-good words ... more than a few holy commands. There are some tough facts in this book. There are tough facts in this life ... (God) wills and wants you to place a vested interest in His Word," said Moore.

The Bible distribution began with St. Philip Monumental members and visitors who attend the church and will filter out into the community.

About 10,000 Bibles from the American Bible Society and its anonymous donors will be distributed in the coming months.

Moore said the poor will be a priority: "We want to make sure each family has a Bible."

He said there is no set timetable and the project will continue for "however long it takes to see God's blessings fall upon this community."

For information about these and other programs at St. Philip Monumental AME, call 233-8547.

*Republished with permission of the Savannah Morning News.

8. THE REVEREND GREGORY BALL SHARES PILGRIMAGE TO HOLY LAND SPONSORED BY THE INTERDENOMINATIONAL THEOLOGICAL CENTER, ATLANTA, GEORGIA:

I have return from the Holy-land, which was a Pastor's Spiritual Renewal Pilgrimage and Retreat in Jerusalem and refer to as the Holy-rest. To sit here at my computer and attempt to explain my experience it would take more time and words than I have at my disposal, yet I must share something of my magnificent spiritual journey.

What a great conquest of being able to traveling the places were Jesus walked, taught and lived. I had the opportunity to visited Jesus' home town of Nazareth, Walk a trail to the top of the Cliff of Arbel for a panoramic view of the Sea of Galilee. Visible in the distance are the Plain of Gennesaret, Capernaum, Mount of Beatitudes and Tabgha (traditional site of the loaves and fishes), and the Chapel of the Primacy of Peter (traditional site of Jesus' appearance to the disciples while they were fishing: "cast your nets on the other side).

Descend the trail and drove to Capernaum. Drove to Kursi on the eastern side of the Sea of Galilee (traditional site of where Jesus healed the demoniac and cast the demons into swine) then return across the sea by boat. After traveling through Galilee to Nazareth exploring Nazareth, we returned by a different route that offered a better view of Mount Tabor (traditional Mount of Transfiguration).

After Sunday morning worship followed by a full day drive from Galilee to Jerusalem.

The drive was not so long, but there were three important places we visited along the way: Megiddo (Armageddon), Mount Carmel, and Caesarea.

That morning we walked into Jerusalem: from Mount of Olives via the Garden of Gethsemane and the Via Delarosa to the Church of the Holy Sepulcher was quite an experience.

We then pressed our way back into the Old City of Jerusalem for visits to Saint Anne's Church and the Western (Wailing) Wall then to the Church of Saint Peter in Gallicantu on Mount Zion.

And finally, our morning excursion to Bethlehem, then to the Dead Sea (This excursion broke the pattern in that it would take most of the day. Yet the Dead Sea and places along its northwestern shore (Masada, Qumran, and Jericho) was important for understanding the biblical tradition).

And now I have been blessed with a new perspective about Jesus

The Rev. Gregory Ball Sr.

Editor's Note: Thank you, Rev. Ball, for sharing this travel report.

9. ADDITIONAL TRIPS TO THE HOLY LAND BEING PLANNED:

I recently returned from a two-week pilgrimage to the Holy Land sponsored by ITC (and funded by the Cousins Foundation out of Atlanta). It is specifically geared for pastors between the age of 35 and 55 who are experiencing burnout and feel the need for renewal. The pilgrimage was excellent! The reason I am sharing is validate for those of you may have been skeptical when the message was circulated a few months ago and to let you know that ITC has been funded for two more pilgrimages in October. Exact dates have not yet been released but should be posted on their website--www.holyrest.org--when it is up and running. If you have never been to the Holy Land, the pilgrimage will serve to greatly enhance your spiritual journey and put a genuine picture to the scripture passages you have been reading for years.

The Reverend Ken Ratliff

10. HERE IS YET ANOTHER ANNOUNCEMENT ABOUT A GREAT OPPORTUNITY:

ITC has been granted a third Holy Land Pilgrimage which Dr. Temba Mafico will lead in October 2007.

This is in addition to those planned for the year 2008.

The Holy Land Web Site:

www.holyrest.org

Potential applicants will find at this website all the information needed as well as the application form.

The deadline for applications is June 20, 2007.
The pilgrimage is scheduled for October 3-18, 2007.

Please recruit your friends and encourage them to apply.

Note: Responses to this email will go directly to Dr. Mafico.

Temba L. J. Mafico, Ph.D.
Project Manager
ITC/CF Pilgrimage for Pastoral Renewal
700 Martin Luther King Jr. Drive, SW
Atlanta. GA 30314

EDITOR’S NOTE: The Interdenominational Theological Center (ITC) is a consortium of denominational seminaries whose mission is to educate Christian leaders for ministry and service in the Church and the global community. The ITC educates and nurtures women and men who commit to and practice a liberating and transforming spirituality; academic discipline; religious, gender, and cultural diversity; and justice and peace.

11. ST. PAUL-MINNEAPOLIS DISTRICT CONFERENCE 3RD SESSION:

By Charles Hallman, District Reporter

Those who traveled to and attended the third session of the St. Paul-Minneapolis District Conference April 12-14 left very uplifted.

“We closed this session on a mountaintop experience,” proclaimed Presiding Elder Rev. Alphonse Reff, Sr.

Wayman (Minneapolis, Minn.), where Reff is host pastor, was the site of the three-day sessions.

Expertly directed by Rev. Carl Walker of Walker-West Music Academy in St. Paul, Minn., who was a guest director, the conference was blessed by a district pre-musical, featuring the district choir directed by Rev. Steve Perkins (Bethel, Davenport, Iowa).

Those in attendance that night got stirred up with each song, and the two-hour concert quickly transformed into a participatory worship service. “The people were very responsive,” said Rev. Walker, who praised Reff for allowing him and others from different denominations to take part in an AMEC event. “I hope we can do it again.”

“Baptists and AMEers singing together,” added a smiling Reff.

Rev. Harry L. Wilson, pastor Bethel, Darlington, S.C. preached the opening session sermon and used 2 Kings 5:6-8 as his sermon text. Afterwards he said, “I was honored to see the great work on the St. Paul Minneapolis District.”

The first day featured workshops, such as one that involved a dialogue on leadership. Communication should be a top priority for clergy, Rev. Michael Gonzales (Wayman, Minneapolis) surmised. “As a leader, you have to be willing to be transparent,” he added. “People have to be able to see you as human and be able to relate to them.”

The first evening service featured AMEC Department of Global Witness and Ministries Executive Director Rev. George Flowers. Before he spoke, Rev. Flowers thanked the district for its $10,000 contribution toward helping Hurricane Katrina survivors in New Orleans, Mississippi and Alabama. As his text, he used Mark 4:35-41 for his sermon titled “Jesus with you on the boat.”

“We are living in an era of storms,” Flowers reiterated. “When you are in the middle of the storm, it is not a good time to work out your theology.”

A second-day workshop, “Serving God through effective Communication,” was a clergy and laity dialogue led by Dr. Betty Webb, a former Minneapolis assistant school superintendent who now runs a Minneapolis charter school. To fully illustrate her point, she asked clergy members to sit on one side of the sanctuary and district laity on the other. “This is how many of our churches look like,” Webb said as she hammered her point that divisions among congregations often are counter-productive.

The second evening service brought the district conference to its praying knees, first by the district youth choir, then by the featured preacher, Rev. Paulette Sankofa, Associate Academic Dean, Princeton Theological Seminary, Indianapolis, Ind.

“Voices sounded like angels,” Rev. Sankofa told the youngsters prior to her sermon, which she used 2 Chronicles 7: 12-14 and Luke 15: 11-24 as her text. She briefly reviewed recent news events, such as the dropping of all charges against the Duke lacrosse players, three University of Minnesota football players accused of rape, a drive-by killing of a young woman in Chicago, and Don Imus’ racist remarks about the Rutgers University women’s basketball team.

We are being “bamboozled and distracted” by such events, Rev. Sankofa pointed out. “The church in this world is in trouble, while we are worrying about the colors to wear on Women’s Day. The church has lost its sense of purpose.”

Sankofa pleaded for “radical changes” in our churches, including healing and refraining from wickedness. She concluded her sermon by asking the congregation to join in an altar call. “This can’t be for one night,” she said. “We got to go into prayer for our world. God will heal our land but it will take all of us praying for this to happen.”

Among District business included:

--The Board of Examiners recommended four licentiates: Donald Price, Tracey Gibson, Hilton Holt and Stacey Smith for ordination as deacons at the Annual Conference later this year. “A licentiate is like a person with a driver’s permit,” noted Rev. Bryon Moore, Pastor, St. James (St. Paul, Minn.), one of the examiners. “They should not preach without a licensed driver or their pastor present.”

--Lay Report: Their members all agreed that more training is needed

--Church Growth: Rev. Kenneth Adderly (Coppin Chapel, Fort Dodge, Iowa) reported, “We should concentrate on getting spiritually (and) forget about the numbers for now.”

--Christian Education: Rev. Janet Johnson (Wayman, Minneapolis) reported on the district’s prison ministry, which include an ‘adopt-a-family’ program (two families currently involved), letter writing to inmates, with an additional focus on family members, and a youth forum (14 persons are participating): “Our mission is to educate not incarnate,” concluded Johnson.

After closing business was conducted, Chicago Conference Christian Education Director Dr. Reginald Blount spoke on “The Basics of Christian Education.”

“I believe the purpose of Christian Education is to set people free: free to be children of God and free to be co-creators with God,” said Dr. Blount (Trinity, Waukegan, Ill.). Christian Education should always take place at all times, even at choir rehearsals and official board meetings, he added. “That’s where Christian Education should be taken place. Any time or opportunity where people need to grow,” he said.

More is needed than just saving souls, Blount added. “After we saved them, our goal needs to be to transform their lives to be Christ-like. We just can’t teach them about Christ and the Bible but to show them.”

The district’s “Women in Ministry” led the closing worship service. Rev. Sharon Moore (St. James, St. Paul, Minn.) used Luke 24: 1-12 as the text of her sermon, “After Resurrection.”

“God wants us to be focused more on the spiritual,” she began. “We are looking more like the world than looking like the church.” The church needs “spiritual spices” in order to move after being resurrected, she added.

“When you remember the promise God give you,” Moore concluded, “you are to move into action. Don’t allow your past to blackmail your future. God is looking for one to say yes.”

The conference attendees left impressed, informed and inspired.

The workshops were worthwhile, said Julia Naylor (Coppin Chapel, Fort Dodge, Iowa). “Overall it has been a very good conference,” added Dorothy Sallis (Payne, Waterloo, Iowa).

Rev. John R. Halbert, Pastor of St. Peter’s (Minneapolis) praised the host church’s volunteers’ diligence in serving the conference attendees: “Your hospitality made our food digest better.”

Presiding Elder Reff said that now the district must take the “mountaintop experience” back to their churches. “After our mountaintop experience,” he pointed out, “we must go back to the valley. We need to continue to make an impact on people’s lives, to bring people into the saving knowledge of Jesus Christ, to impart our neighborhoods and communities with corroboration with other agencies. The church can’t do it by itself.”

On the third session of the three-year-old St. Paul Minneapolis District, which comprises of nine churches in Minnesota and Iowa, Rev. Reff noted, “Things have superseded beyond my expectations. I always expected the churches to work in the community in a small sense but now it has exceeded my expectations that they are working in a broader sense.

“That let me know that the Kingdom of God is strengthen beyond the walls of the church,” concluded Reff.

12. AFRICAN AMERICAN, JEWISH WORSHIPPERS UNITE TO STAGE HISTORIC ‘HUMAN CHAIN’ VIGIL; TAKE INTERFAITH STAND AGAINST DARFUR ATROCITIES AT SUDANESE EMBASSY:

(WASHINGTON, DC)- Two of this city’s oldest religious congregations will unite in an interfaith protest against human suffering and genocide in Darfur when members of the Metropolitan AME Church and the Washington Hebrew Congregation meet to form “A (Human) Chain for Change in Darfur,” in front of the Republic of Sudan’s Embassy on Sunday, June 24, from 2 to 3 p.m.

“African Americans and Jews are two peoples of this planet with long histories of suffering from and fighting against genocide and oppression,” said Bishop Adam J. Richardson, presiding prelate of the Second Episcopal District of the African Methodist Episcopal Church. “We are taking a united stand against the atrocities being committed in Darfur. Together we say ‘no more.’”

The June 24 vigil will be led by Rabbi M. Bruce Lustig, senior rabbi of the Washington Hebrew Congregation, and the Rev. Ronald E. Braxton, senior pastor of the Metropolitan AME Church. “We want this protest to serve as both a symbolic gesture and a real call to action to end suffering, injustice, and death in Darfur,” said Rabbi Lustig. “We will not stand idly by and watch this genocide continue…”

Rev. Braxton added, “At the vigil, a human chain bearing the names of witnesses who refuse to stand silent about ending the genocide in Darfur will be formed at the Sudanese Embassy. Through our united action, the African American and the Jewish communities will tell the work that the mindless torture and slaughter of innocent people in Darfur will no longer be ignored and tolerated by the international community.”

For additional information about his historic human rights event, please contact Rev. Kimberly Barnes at 202 331-1426 or Julia Wilson at 202 340-0608.

Contact: Rev. Marie M. Phillips Braxton
Metropolitan A.M.E. Church
1518 M Street NW
Washington, DC 2005
301 331-1426

13. MALCOLM GLOVER PRODUCES SUDAN DOCUMENTARY:

I hope all is well. I am pleased to report that I recently finished producing and editing a documentary titled: A Partnership for Prosperity: Public Servants in Southern Sudan. Those of you who live in Arkansas are cordially invited to attend a special screening of my film at the Clinton School of Public Service on Wednesday, May 9, from 5:30 – 7 p.m. I have attached to this email a flyer with additional film screening details.

My thirty minute film documents the results of two decades of civil war in Southern Sudan, which caused two million deaths and displaced four million civilians from their homes. The documentary also features the public service efforts of a global cadre of volunteers, who are working with Southern Sudanese citizens in order to strengthen communities and rebuild livelihoods.

Through the personal stories of displaced Southern Sudanese citizens, refugees, and volunteers, A Partnership for Prosperity provides an interesting perspective on life in Sudan and encourages members of the global community to become social change agents and make a difference by getting involved with all of the economic development and community empowerment initiatives taking place throughout Southern Sudan.

Over the course of three months during the summer of 2006, I filmed the documentary in communities throughout Southern Sudan and at the Kakuma Refugee Camp in northern Kenya. I edited my film during March and April of 2007. Recently, I was awarded The President’s Volunteer Service Award from USA Freedom Corps and President Bush’s Council on Service and Civic Participation. I was nominated for the aforementioned honor by officials at Winrock International, an innovative global nonprofit organization, in recognition of my public service work in Southern Sudan and Kenya with the Volunteers for Economic Growth Alliance, the world’s largest consortium of economic growth volunteer organizations.

Thank you for your attention and your continued support.

Sincerely,
Malcolm Glover.

Malcolm E. Glover
University of Arkansas Clinton School of Public Service
Sturgis Hall, 1200 President Clinton Avenue
Little Rock, Arkansas 72201
Phone: (501) 280-9005
meglover@clintonschool.uasys.edu
www.clintonschool.uasys.edu

14. EUNICE ALLUMS-SEIGLE GRADUATES FROM VOORHEES COLLEGE:

Eunice Allums-Seigle, a member of Mt Tabor A.M.E. Church, Keysville, Georgia where the Rev. Ronald Freeman serves as pastor is a 2007 graduate of Voorhees College.

Sister Allums-Seigle is an active member at Mt. Tabor A.M.E. Church and serves as local lay president, choir president, Church Secretary, and Financial secretary for the Church Finance Committee.

She also serves as the Augusta/Athens District Lay--- Treasurer
Augusta Georgia Conference Lay President and was also a delegate to General Conference in 1988 Fort Worth, Texas.

She has a background in accounting and Health care and is employed by the City of Keysville as the Administrator- City’s Water & Property Tax Clerk.

She graduated from Voorhees College, acquiring a Bachelor of Science degree in Organizational Management in the Division of Business and Professional studies.

Her hobbies are shopping and skating with my grand kids; her favorite scripture, “Trust in the Lord and lean not to thy own understanding.”

Congratulations to Sister Eunice Allums-Seigle!

15. THE REVEREND DR. JOHN F. WHITE STRIVES FOR THE EPISCOPACY:

By James M. Proctor, D. Min., Presiding Elder (Retired)

Forty years ago, I met John F. White, who at that time was a bright, inquiring, energetic young man who was preparing for matriculation at Edward Waters College in Jacksonville, Florida. Since then, I carefully observed his growth and development in the Christian faith and in the tradition of the African Methodist Episcopal Church. I support John White because he is prepared and committed to lead the African Methodist Episcopal Church as a bishop.

The Reverend John F. White is prepared spiritually, academically and by experience. At an early age, John committed his life to Jesus Christ and was baptized in the faith. He grew in wisdom and in stature. John White now stands head and should above the crowd.

John White has earned the following degrees, Bachelor of Science, Edward Waters College, Jacksonville, FL. He earned the Master of Education at Florida Atlantic University, Boca Raton, FL, Master of Divinity, Turner Theological Seminary, ITC, Atlanta, GA and the Doctor of Education, Nova Southeastern University, Ft. Lauderdale; FL. Dr. White has prepared himself to provide the type of Episcopal leadership the AME Church needs for a time such as ours.

John White has demonstrated knowledge, skills and abilities to make a positive difference wherever he has served. Former members of churches where Dr. White served more than twenty years ago still refer to his spiritual nurture, pastoral care and administrative skills. In Jacksonville where Pastor White served two different congregations, I have been told, “Pastor White made every member feel important. He even knew my children’s birthday and made them believe they were special. . . . Our church has not had a pastor like him since he left.” A member of another, stated, “Pastor White made bible study dynamic and interesting. I used to look forward to Wednesday nights.”

John White has been an instrument of God to build new sanctuaries and improve physical properties, and secure a variety of financial resources to strengthen the economic viability of local communities. He believes the church should provide a seven-day-a- week comprehensive, holistic, relevant ministry for children and youth, adults and older adults. Pastor White implements a three-prong approach to ministry. He implements ministries of mercy, faithfulness, and justice (holding systems accountable) for economic parity for the least among us. Pastor White religiously practices fiscal accountability and empowers lay people for ministry.

John White is not a novice. He has served the church at the local, presiding elder district, annual conference, episcopal district, connectional and ecumenical levels.

His work on the General Board has shown that he has the capacity to grasp complex ideas and communicate them in a manner where the majority of r people can understand. Dr. White has represented the AME Church as a delegate to the World Methodist Council and the World Council of Churches, where he serves on its Executive Board.

The best test of what one will do is to compare what one has done. John F. White has a record of successful, upward, progressive, enlarging responsibilities in civic, ecclesiastical and professional organizations. I support John White because I know first hand of his effectiveness as an administrator, evangelist, leader, pastor and teacher.

16. ALLEGHENY SCRANTON DISTRICT HOLDS 2007 FIRE IN THE MOUNTAINS REVIVAL:

Submitted by: Shelly Brown, Allegheny Scranton District Secretary
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

On May 7-9th, 2007 Presiding Elder, Dr. Eric L. Brown led the Allegheny Scranton District, one of the largest geographical presiding elder districts in the connection, spanning some 700 miles round trip from the Annual Conference seat. In an effort to include the rural churches in the remote areas of the Annual Conference, on Monday, May 7, 2007, Presiding Elder Brown summoned the district to converge in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania for the first night of a three night revival. The revival experience began at Bethel A.M.E. Church in their new home located at 516 South Franklin Street, where the Rev. Wilhelmenia Coleman is the pastor. The evangelist for the occasion was the Rev. Samuel Wade Chambers, the pastor of Payne Chapel AME Church in Duquesne, PA. Rev. Chambers preached with power and conviction from the subject, “He’s still able.” As a result of this powerful sermon many people responded to the altar call. Fire in the mountains continued on Tuesday, May 8, 2007 at Bethel, Williamsport, Pennsylvania, where the Rev. Kenneth Burnett is the pastor. This massive sanctuary was filled to capacity. The Honorable Mayor of Williamsport, Mary B. Wolf brought greeting to the gathering and welcomed the presiding elder to the city of Williamsport. The evangelist for the occasion was The Rev. Dr. Eric L. Brown, the Presiding Elder of the Allegheny Scranton District, he preached with power and conviction from the subject “Unhitch the Trailer.” Once again, may people responded to the altar call as they left their excess baggage at the altar. The Fire continued on Wednesday, May 9, 2007 at Bethel Church in Lewistown, Pennsylvania, where the Rev. Bernard Carpenter is the pastor. The evangelist for the evening was the Rev. Dr. Helen Milner Burton, the pastor of Greater Bethel, Tarentum, Pennsylvania. She preached with power and conviction from the subject “Not Wine, but Fire.” Once again the sanctuary was filled to capacity, this powerful and persuasive preacher let the Lord use her to his Glory, the congregation was on their feet.

This innovative presiding elder, not only requested the physical presence of the members of the district at the Fire in the mountain revival, he also requested that each congregation make a financial contribution to each host church. The Lord blessed those in attendance and all of our lives will never be the same.

17. FROM THE DESK OF CONGRESSMAN JAMES E. CLYBURN:

House Approves Emergency Spending Bill

Legislation Funds Troops Fighting in Iraq and Afghanistan as well as $6.4 B for Hurricane Recovery,
Children's Healthcare, Veterans Care and First Raise in the Minimum Wage in a Decade

WASHINGTON, DC-House Majority Whip James E. Clyburn today released the following statement on HR 2206, legislation amended and passed by the House of Representatives.

"It is appropriate that on the eve of Memorial Day we not only provide our troops with the resources they need while they're fighting on the ground, but we're providing for our veterans, military families and their children here at home.

"This is not the bill that I would have drafted. I would have preferred establishing more accountability on this administration and the Iraqi government beyond the 18 benchmarks and potential withdrawal of economic aid if progress is not made. Be assured we will assert more accountability through the upcoming Department of Defense appropriations bill and additional supplemental requests from the president. This is a step forward toward our goal of changing the course in Iraq and redeploying our troops caught in the middle of an Iraqi civil war.

"This legislation includes provisions beyond the President's request to address emergency needs domestically: $393 million in critical funding that I led the fight for to restore children's healthcare in 11 states, the first raise in the minimum wage in a decade, and funding for veterans care and improving VA hospitals.

"What makes me extremely proud is that my work as head of the Democratic Caucus's Katrina Task Force has been rewarded. We secured over $6.4 billion in funding for Gulf Coast recovery assistance and a provision to waive the local fund matching requirement under the Stafford Act, which will allow access to funding for thousands of rebuilding projects in the region that have been stalled for months. These provisions are expected to pass the Senate tonight and will be sent to the President to be signed into law."

Below is a detailed account of the provisions included in HR 2206 related to Gulf Coast Hurricane Recovery:


Edward Byrne Discretionary Grants: $50 million
 The conference agreement provides $50 million for Edward Byrne Discretionary Grants to assist Gulf Coast states in fighting the increase in violent crime resulting from Hurricanes Katrina and Rita.

National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration: $110 million
The conference agreement provides $110 million for fisheries and disaster recovery in
the Gulf Coast region. The President did not request funding for this activity. This
amount includes:
 $24 million for scanning, mapping, and debris removal in fishing grounds and waterways
 $85 million for authorized direct assistance to gulf fishermen
 $1 million for observations and forecasts in high priority seaports in the Gulf Coast region

NASA: $35 million
 The conference agreement includes $35,000,000 as proposed by the House for disaster mitigation activities at NASA facilities in the Gulf Coast region.
 The conference agreement also includes language, as proposed by both the House and Senate, to reprogram $48,000,000 in previously appropriated funds. The language allows NASA to use up to $48 million in previously appropriated funding to replenish Shuttle/International Space Station (ISS) programs, which NASA used to pay for immediate repairs to NASA facilities after Hurricanes Katrina and Rita.

Louisiana Katrina Relief - $1.3 billion
 The conference legislation provides $1,300,000,000 for work to repair levees and other infrastructure damaged as a result of Hurricane Katrina. The Administration had proposed to simply shift other priority hurricane funding to pay for the $1.3 billion in work, but the conference prefers to directly provide the necessary funding.

Mississippi Katrina Relief - $107.7 million
 The conference legislation allows up to $107,700,000 in reimbursements to locals for advance measures they have undertaken to construct overall hurricane and storm damage reduction projects. This reimbursement would come from funds already appropriated.

Southeast Louisiana drainage projects - $25.3 million
 The conference agreement provides $25,300,000 for interior drainage projects in the metro New Orleans area. This will fund contracts in FY07 that will extend through FY08.

SMALL BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION:
 The conference agreement provides authority for the Small Business Administration (SBA) to use $25,069,000 in unobligated balances in the Disaster Loans Program Account for administrative expenses. The conference agreement also provides that an additional $25,000,000 in unobligated balances shall be used for the SBA Disaster Loan Program for Economic Injury Disaster Loans, not more than $8,750,000 of which may be used for administrative expenses.

Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)
 $100 million for Emergency Management Performance Grants (EMPG) -- The Nationwide Plan Review, conducted by DHS after Hurricane Katrina, identified specific actions needed to update State and local emergency plans. Emergency Management Performance Grants are the only source of direct federal funding to state and local governments for emergency management capacity building.

Disaster Relief Fund - The legislation provides $4.1 billion, $700 million above the $3.4 billion requested by the President.

 Match Waiver - The legislation contains a provision to waive the local funding match requirements for the repair of public facilities, and for public assistance and individual assistance related to the response to and recovery from the 2005 Hurricanes, consistent with other major disasters such as the 9/11 terrorist attacks.

 $320 million is included to provide relief to Gulf Coast communities that have not been able to repay Community Disaster Loans.

 Higher Education: The conference agreement includes $30 million for grants to colleges and universities affected by Hurricanes Katrina and Rita. Funds may be used to reimburse such institutions for physical damages, costs incurred for clean-up and lost revenue. Both House and Senate bills included $30 million, but under slightly different eligibility criteria.

 Hurricane Education Recovery: The conference agreement includes $30 million for grants to hurricane-impacted states and local educational agencies. Both House and Senate bills included $30 million, but used different criteria regarding the use and distribution of the funds.

 Programs to Restart School Operations: The conference agreement modifies bill language proposed by the House and Senate to expand the uses of funds provided for emergency aid to restart school operations appropriated in Public Law 109-148.

 Extension of Waiver Authority: The conference agreement includes language extending the Hurricane Katrina-related waiver authority of the Secretary of Education until the end of fiscal year 2008. This language was included in House and Senate bills.

 Social Services Block Grant Extension: The conference agreement includes language extending, until September 30, 2009, the availability of Social Services Block Grant funds provided to the States affected by the 2005 Gulf Coast hurricanes. These funds were made available in Public Law 109-148. The House and Senate bills had similar provisions.

 Ryan White Care Act Waiver Authority: The conference agreement includes language permitting the Secretary of Health and Human Services to grant waivers modifying provisions of the Ryan White State HIV/AIDS grants for four States affected by the 2005 Gulf Coast hurricanes. The Senate bill included similar language. The House bill did not include any language on this issue.

 Transit Funding for the Gulf - The conference agreement includes the Senate's provision providing transit grants to areas affected by Hurricanes Katrina and Rita. The agreement is to provide $35 million of funding. The agreement includes language which allows the funding to be used for operating expenses as well as capital costs.

 Tenant-based Rental Assistance- The conference agreement includes the Senate's approach to modify the new 12 month Section 8 formula contained in the FY 2007 Funding Resolution to address hurricane impacted areas in Mississippi and Louisiana only. Other modifications originally in the House bill to address anomalies have been modified and included. The conference agreement also includes a provision proposed by the House and Senate to clarify levels of funding within the Tenant-Based Rental Assistance account for Fiscal Year 2007.

 Project-based Rental Assistance- The conference agreement retains the House provision related to a technical issued related to renewing expiring project-based section 8 contracts.

 Hurricane Fungability Extension- The conference agreement extends Sec. 901 that was included in the Dec. 30, 2005 Disaster bill (P.L. 109-48) from December 30, 2006 to December 30, 2007. This will continue to allow public housing authorities in the most heavily impacted areas in Mississippi and Louisiana the flexibility to combine separate funding streams to assist tenants primarily in reconstruction and rehabilitation efforts.

 Hurricane Disaster Vouchers. The conference agreement modifies a House provision that extends current waiver authority for tenant contribution and income verification for the disaster voucher program until December 30, 2007.

18. NEWS FROM THE 12TH EPISCOPAL DISTRICT - THE 7TH MID YEAR MEETING:

The 7th Mid Year Meeting for the Tall, Talented, Tough, Terrific, and Tantalizing Twelfth Episcopal District convened on March 15, 2007 at Greater Bethel African Methodist Church in Little Rock, Arkansas under the leadership of the dynamic duet Bishop Richard Allen Chappelle and Mother Barbara Jeanne Chappelle.

The host pastor, Rev. Nolan Watson and the members of Bethel left no stones unturned as they greeted us on arrival at the unofficial meeting, Executive Board, before the meeting on Wednesday night, March 14, 2007. The Episcopal District Officers enjoyed a wonderful dinner before the business meeting. Bishop Chappelle expressed the following words, “We are here to conduct the business of the church, and we must never forget who’s we are and whom we serve.”

The Presiding Elders in their appropriate clergy attire and robes showed unity as they entered wearing the Twelfth District stole at opening worship on Thursday morning.

This was the first Episcopal District meeting for three new Presiding Elders:

- Rev. Lonnie Johnson-Oklahoma Conference, Lawton District
- Rev. Lewie A. Norful- East NE Arkansas Conference, Newport/Jonesboro District
- Rev. Clarence Reynolds-Central Arkansas, Camden/El Dorado District

Other Presiding Elders in attendance were:

Rev. Edward E. Davis- Oklahoma Conference, Oklahoma City District
Rev. Dennis Hampton-Central Northeast Oklahoma, Tulsa District
Rev. Napoleon Davis, Jr.-East Northeast Arkansas, Stuttgart/Forrest City District
Rev. Thomas G. Allen-Central Arkansas Conference, Pine Bluff / South District
Rev. James R. Hooper-south Arkansas Conference, Monticello District
Rev. Clarence V. Boyd-West Arkansas Conference, Hot Springs District
Rev. Eugene Brannon-Arkansas Conference, Little Rock District

Rev. Pollie W. Ragsdale-Central Northeast Oklahoma, Muskogee District, our first female presiding elder arrived later due to a funeral and Rev. Charles M. Cleaver, Sr. Arkansas Conference, No Little Rock/Ft. Smith District was absent due to illness.

Rev. Marcellus Fields, pastor of St. John AME Church in Tulsa, Oklahoma was the minister of the hour and set the stage as he proclaimed the good news. His titles,” When God shows up, he shows out, Psalm 46:10.” He stressed three points, (1). God is for us, (2). God ought to be with us, and, (3). God needs to be in us.

Union AME Church, Pastor Randolph Martin, WMS President Charolett Martin and the Young Women’s Initiative (YWI) under the leadership of Sis Brandi Smith gave a surprise Birthday party for Bishop Chappelle Mardi Gras style.

Sister LaRhonda Collins, Sister, Adrianne Johnson, Sister Lisa Williams, Sis Natalie Horton, Sister Nedra Allen, Sis Brandi Smith, and Sis Vonda Jones met Bishop and Mother as they entered the multipurpose for the surprise birthday celebration.

It was a gala event with lots of food, fellowship, comedy skits by Sis Mary Wilson and Sister Patricia Moore, and a praise dance by little Miss Sarah York and Little Miss McKenzie Walker, two YPDer’s from Bethel AME Church in North Little Rock as Bishop celebrated another year. The event closed with a birthday boogie where many participated in the Christian Slide. (You mean you have never heard of that? It’s the Electric Slide with a spiritual twist!)

The Business Session of the conference on Friday morning started with the General Assembly at Bethel AME Church. The Commission and Departments met at 10:00 a.m. The Departments and Commissions made their reports to the Episcopal District around 2:30 p.m.

The WMS under the leadership of Mother Barbara Jeanne Chappelle and Sister Charolette Martin, Episcopal President opened the 12th District business session at 10 a.m. The Seven Conference Presidents were all in attendance.

Sister Gloria Hall- Oklahoma Conference
Sister Veola West-CNE Oklahoma Conference
Sister Yvonne Stovall-ENE Arkansas Conference
Sister Thelma Denton- Central Arkansas Conference
Sister Emma Swift- South Arkansas Conference
Sister Mary Wilson -West Arkansas Conference
Sister Phyllis Johnson, Arkansas Conference

The Health Commission lead by Sister Saundra Lucas and Rev. Norman Gillom Co-chairs, gave a detail report.

Health Commission Progress Report

1. A list with names of the Health Coordinators who have been appointed in each Presiding Elder District was distributed so Pastors and/or local Health Coordinators to promote reporting.

2. Health promotion seminars have been provided or are planned for District Conferences this Conference year.

3. Churches participated in the Black Church Week of Prayer for the Healing of AIDS March 4-10, 2007

4, The Health Commission Chairs will be in dialogue with the leadership of the Christian Education Congress planning committee to sponsor health promotion activities during the Congress in Tulsa in July 2007.

5. Information on “Kidney Disease-The Silent Killer” was the featured health awareness topic for this meeting. Informational materials were distributed as a part of the report.

6. The Health Commissioners will continue to serve as resource persons to any Department who plan and/or implement health/wellness programs within the Episcopal District.

The Health Commission would like to document the Health Awareness and Promotion activities that occur during this Quadrennial. They asked everyone to submit a report to a member of the Health Commission during the year.

The Episcopal District YPD had their annual program on Friday night at 7:00 pm at Bethel AME Church. Mr. Wesley Baker, Arkansas Conference YPD President was the host MC for the program titled “Twelfth District Idol. “ The three judges were selected to portray the judges on American idol. They were Paula- Sis Cordelia Webb-Banks, Randy-Bro LaBaron Mizer, and Simon- Bro Jason Bivens.

The talent brought the house down with musical selections from Adriana Dodson, ENE Arkansas Conference, Kyle Gaines, Oklahoma Conference, Rikki Jones, Central Arkansas Conference, Stacy Williams, Arkansas Conference, and Ryan McHenry, CNE Oklahoma Conference. The Conference was honored to have the Oklahoma Conference Ensemble to render a selection while the judges were making their winning selection. The results were in and the 12th District Idols were, Miss Nikki Jones, 1st place, Kyle Gaines 2nd place and Ryan McHenry 3rd place. Closing remarks by the Sis Sheryl Giles, 12th Episcopal District YPD Director, Mr. ­Emile Gauthier –Washington, Connectional YPD President and closing remarks from Bishop Chappelle with congratulations on a job well done.

The Business session came to order around 9:00 pm Friday night after the YPD Program. Many of the committee were ready and made their reports.

The 12th Episcopal Lay organization under the leadership of their President, Bro David Fielding, gave their report as they reviewed the roads they had traveled.

The Lay will celebrate the Fiftieth Annual Lay Convention-theme: “Celebrating Fifty Year of Lay service-Catch the Fire!!” All laity and preachers are welcomed. The date is June 21-23, 2007 at Pilgrim Rest A.M.E. Church in Monticello, AR. A special highlight of the meeting will be a display of historical reflections of each conference Lay organization.

The Lay will continue the Voter Registration activities, and keep abreast of legislative issues and concerns of the Black Community.
There are ongoing preparations to host the 2009 Lay Biennial.

The 12th Episcopal District Public Relations Directors were all in attendance. A detailed report was presented by Sis Ann Gilkey, Rev. Roger Alford, Rev. Charles Frost, Mrs. Jackie Weary, Rev. Nolan Watson and Mrs. Theresa Jordan.

Saturday, March 17, 2007

The 12th Episcopal District Women’s Missionary Society presented their annual Sarah Allen Scholarship Breakfast & Silent Auction at 7:00 A.M. in the Shorter College gymnasium in North Little Rock, Arkansas centered on the theme,” A Parade Of Divas- Divine Women.” Mrs. Brenda Fields, 12th Episcopal District WMS First Vice-President and the Young Women’s Initiative coordinated the breakfast.

Additional 12th Episcopal District Committee and Commissions made their reports around 9 a.m.

Music Department
Mrs. Cordelia Webb-Banks and members of the committee included Bro Jason Bivens, Bro LaBaron Mizer, Sis Annette Roper and Rev. Keith Grandberry submitted a detailed report for the music department.

The Council of Presiding Elders Mid –Year Report, Rev. Thomas G. Allen, President

Debutante and Masters Commission under Mrs. Lyndajo Jones, DMC Coordinator.
The main topic of discussion was the upcoming ceremony that will open the Christian Leadership Congress in /Tulsa, OK July 30-August 2, 2007. It was stated that this will be the last ceremony under the leadership of our dynamic duo, Bishop Richard Allen Chappelle, and Mother Barbara Jean Chappelle. The Commission really wants to show that they have truly learned a more excellent way.

Sister Leta Anthony, Rev. Holmes, and Rev. Handy gave the Social and Recreation Commission report.

The 12th District M-SWAWO headed by President Piccola Washington gave their report. Mrs. Brenda Fields will be The 12th Episcopal District representative in the
Connectional M-SWAWO.

The Christian Education Directors presented the Christian Education Report, Rev. Larry M. Banks, Episcopal Chair, Reverend Shirley Inkton Bowers, Episcopal Director, Reverend Samuel Craig, OK Conference Director, Reverend Marcellus Fields, CNE OK Conference Director, Mrs. Kaye Person, ENE AR Conference Director, Mrs. Miranda Johnson, CAC Director, Mr. Nodgy Merritt, SAC Director Reverend Clarence Guy, WAC Director, Reverend Reginal Alexander, AR Conference Director.

Announcement: The Christian Education Leadership Congress will meet on July 30-August 2, 2007 at Oral Roberts University in Oklahoman City, OK.

Richard Allen Young Adult Council lead by Coordinator, Bro Corian L. Wilson, gave their report and talked about the First Annual Young Adult Weekend March 29-31, 2007 at Lee Chapel AME Church where the Rev. Bill A. Bowers will be the host pastor. A special feature for the weekend event included a musical extravaganza with several musical groups. The proceeds from this musical will be donated to the election of Reginald Cleaver as Connectional YPD President. Special recognition was given to the Christian Education Chair and Director, Rev. Larry Banks and Rev. Shirley Inkton Bowers for their leadership and guidance as the young Adults became more active as a group in the AME Church.

Conference Secretaries:

Rev. Charles Frost, Coordinator and other Conference Secretaries, Rev. Lue Kathryn Montgomery, Rev. Linda Adams, Rev. Richard Sutton, Sis Marcia Burns, Ms. Carolyn Ellis, and Mrs. Betty Rhodes, Conference Marshal gave their report.
Rev. Frost commended all the secretaries on the uniformity of all conference minutes.

He reminded them that the focus as secretaries is to:

1. Record accuracy and uniformity of all minutes
2. Improve timeliness in finalization of conference minutes, and
3. Back-up minutes to avoid loss of information.

Worship in Songs lead by Bro Labaron Mizer was high-spirited with various melodies. The church was on fire and members danced in the aisles before the regular worship service started.

Rev. Mary V. Williams, pastor of Bethel AME Church in West Memphis, AR was the Worship Leader for the Closing Service on Saturday March 17, 2007. We held on as the preacher of the hour, Rev. Lashawn Green, pastor of St. James, Eagle Mills, Arkansas kept the fires burning with her text from Exodus 32: 17-19 as she focused on the subject, “There’s a noise in the Camp, but it’s not our kind of Noise!”

We were blessed again to have wonderful music. Hats of to Brother LaBaron Mizer, Music Director for the Arkansas Conference, Brother Jason Bivens, Arkansas Conference Musician and the Conference Choirs.

Special thanks was given to Rev. Nolan Watson and the entire Bethel A.M.E. family of Little Rock, Arkansas for their hospitality, delicious meals and far reaching love during the 7th Mid-Year Conference of the 12th Episcopal District.

Bishop and Mother Chappelle were given a standing ovation for their guidance, love and spirit that has culminated to be one of the best Mid-Year Conferences ever!


*Mrs. Ann Gilkey, 12th Episcopal District Public Relations Director (Arkansas)

19. THE PASTOR’S CORNER - GET OUT OF THAT PIT:

This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us. And if we know that He hears us – what ever we ask – we know that we have what we asked of Him. (I John 5: 14-15)

In our final installment of the series “Get Out of That Pit,” we’re reminded by author Beth Moore that there are three steps out of any pit – “Cry Out,” “Confess,” and in this writing, “Consent.”

A dictionary definition of the word “consent” is – “Compliance in or approval of what is done or proposed by another; agreement as to action or opinion; voluntary agreement.” It sounds as though we’re being disrespectful or irreverent of God to say that we have to give God approval or permission to operate in our lives, but we do. God’s will is for you to get out of that pit! If you agree with His process it will happen. It will be done just as promised in His Word.

A botanist found a rare alpine flower over the edge of a cliff. In his attempt to retrieve the flower he found himself stuck on a ledge unable to lift himself back onto land above him. Some hikers came by and told him they would get him out of that pit. They threw him a rope and told him to grab the rope; they would pull him out of that pit. As the rope fell down within reach of the botanist, “Pride” spoke up and said, “You don’t need anybody to pull you from this pit, you can do it all by yourself.” Then “Strong Delusion” spoke up and said, “Besides, you’re really not in a pit. You’re just chillin’. Ain’t nothing wrong with just takin’ it light for a stretch.” Then “Fear” spoke up and asked, “What if they drop you, or let the rope slip? You’re safer staying just like you are!” Then “Wisdom” spoke up and said, “You really are in a pit. You do need help getting out. God sent the hikers, and God arranged that there would be a rope. Take the rope. God’s in your circumstances and God’s also on the other end of the rope. Take the rope and get out of that pit!

When we give God consent were expressing our confidence in God knowing He will get us out of that pit. We’re giving permission to the Source of all Wisdom to operate in our circumstances so we can “Get Out of That Pit.” Now the words of the old spiritual tune have a renewed meaning in our lives. “Precious Lord, take my hand, lead me on, let me stand, I am tired, I am weak, I am worn. Through the storm, through the night, lead me on to the light. Take my hand, precious Lord, and lead me home.” We must give God consent to get us out of that pit.

Romans 10: 8-9 tells us the most effective way of consenting to God’s word involves your mouth. We must use our mouth before we use our faith. Our failures often disintegrate our faith in God because we confuse faith in God with faith in ourselves. In other words, we mistakenly believe our failures are God’s failures. Therefore, the process of consent can’t begin with faith, it must start somewhere else. For someone to tell us, “Just have faith” may not help us out of that pit because our faith in God may be eroded away and it’s impossible to pull from faith that isn’t there. Therefore the process of consent can’t begin with faith, it must start somewhere else.

Romans 10: 17 says, “Faith comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the word of Christ.” We consent to God’s will by using God’s word. Our faith is built up by hearing our own voices speak the words of Christ. Pray using the Scripture! Pray the Word of God!

I am involved in a number of challenging efforts through the ministries at Quinn Chapel, Chicago. I sometimes fear not being able to achieve successful outcomes in these various endeavors. But when I open my Bible to II Timothy 1: 7 and read, “For God did not give me a spirit of timidity (fear), but of power, love and self-discipline (sound mind.)” I’m reminded that I am fully equipped to continue on in the work God has placed at my hands to accomplish. Repeating God’s Word in my own hearing builds my faith and keeps me “Out of That Pit!”

Why pray the Word of God? First, Psalm 119: 25-32 reminds us that our challenges are often so overwhelming that we can’t think of the right words to say. Scripture give us God’s script. We then have all the correct lines. Second, Psalm 119: 49-56 teaches we can shift the burden of responsibility to God and His Word rather than crumbling under the weight of it ourselves. So often, being in a pit is about a loss of control. We shift the burden of the outcomes over to God.

Third, II Timothy 3: 16 states that God’s Word carries its own supernatural power. As we pray the Word, we’re enlisting the supernatural power of an all-powerful God to aid us. Finally, I John 5: 14-15 share that God loves His Word. Therefore, if God’s Spirit that lives inside a believer has not been quenched by un-confessed sin, God responds every time He hears His Word spoken.

Tips for praying Scripture or Scripture Prayers
1. Ephesians 6: 18 – Don’t let up when you begin to feel better. Feeling better is not what we’re after. The goal is freedom from the pit for the rest of your life.

2, Matthew 26: 39 – On days when you feel down, overwhelmed, or discouraged, get to your Scripture Prayers all the faster.

3. Matthew 4: 1-2 – On the days when you want to do it least do it most. Be on to the enemy’s devices.

4. Matthew 4: 5-7 – When the battle heats up, rest assured that you’re worrying your enemy, and he’s trying to distract or discredit you.

5. Matthew 4: 2-4 - Also expect your flesh to balk. It’s been in control a long time, and it’s not going to give over easily.

6. Matthew 4: 8-11 – No matter how resistant you feel practice Scripture Prayer.

7. Luke 18: 1-8 – What ever you do don’t quit.

It is God’s will that you “Get Out of That Pit!” Therefore, you have the power of the entire Godhead behind you. You have the Father’s will (Matthew 6: 10); the Son’s Word (John 1: 1-14); and the Holy Spirit’s way (Galatians 5: 16-25). I encourage you to purchase Beth Moore’s book and “Get Out of That Pit!”

Rev. James M. Moody Quinn Chapel AME Church

20. RETIRED GENERAL OFFICER CELEBRATES – 101st BIRTHDAY:

Dr. Sherman L. Greene, Jr., General Officer Retired, will celebrate his 101st Birthday on May 30th!

Birthday greeting and well wishes can be sent to:

Gwendolyn C. Criglar, Dr. Sherman Greene's GranddaughterE-mail: gwencriglar@yahoo.com

Or mail Birthday greetings to:

Dr. Sherman L. Greene, Jr.
2250 Tillsby Court
Ann Arbor, MI 48103

(313) 730-0582 Phone

21. CLERGY FAMILY CONGRATULATORY NOTICES:

- The Reverend Julius Harrison McAllister, Jr. is a candidate for a Doctor of Ministry degree from Chicago Theological Seminary, Chicago, Illinois, where he maintained a grade point average (GPA) of 3.7. The title of his dissertation is "How To Implement A Tithing Ministry In Your Local Church." The graduation ceremony will be held May 19, 2007. Dr. McAllister is the pastor of Greater Institutional AME Church in Chicago, Illinois, of the Fourth Episcopal District. He has served in this capacity for the past seven years. Dr. McAllister is married to the former Ms. Deana Elizabeth Young. They have two children (expecting a third child in November 2007) Julius Harrison McAllister, III and Colin McKinley Young McAllister. Dr. McAllister is the son of The Reverend Dr. Julius, Sr., a candidate for Bishop, and Mrs. Joan Marla McAllister of Florence, South Carolina. He is a son-in-law of Bishop McKinley and Dr. Dorothy Jackson Young, Presiding Bishop and Supervisor of the Eleventh Episcopal District.

Congratulatory messages may be sent to juliusmcallister@aol.com Submitted by:Mrs. Deana E. Young McAllister

- On Friday May 18, 2007, Rev. Joseph Pridgen received the Master's of Divinity degree from Payne Theological Seminary. Joseph is the son of Rev. Dr. and Mrs. Conrad K. Pridgen, Pastor and First Lady of Ward Memorial A.M.E. Church in Washington, D.C.

Congratulatory messages may be sent to: anointeddestiny@yahoo.com

- Congratulations to Rev. Carlton V. Rickman Jr., Pastor of Brown Memorial, Pasadena, California. He received his Masters of Arts in Religion and Theological Studies from Claremont School of Theology on May 12, 2007 and has been accepted into their Doctoral Program.

Congratulatory messages may be sent to: dlgr99@aol.com

- The President and Trustees of Tufts University will confer the Doctorate of Medicine Degree upon Nuriya Desta Robinson and Maisha Tamar Robinson at the Commencement Ceremony for the School of Medicine, Sunday, May Twentieth, Two Thousand and Seven.

Doctors Nuriya and Maisha Robinson were Awarded Post-Graduate Residencies. Nuriya D. Robinson, M.D., Training in Obstetrics and Gynecology at The University of California - San Francisco, California. Maisha T. Robinson, M.D., Training in Neurology at The Mayo Clinic - Rochester, Minnesota.

Doctors Nuriya and Maisha Robinson are the twin daughters of the Reverend Kenneth S. Robinson, M.D., pastor and the Reverend Marilynn S. Robinson, Co-Pastor of St. Andrew AME Church - Memphis, TN.

Please keep them in prayer as they begin this next phase of their lives and careers.

Well wishes and greetings may be sent to: AOSaintAndrewAME@aol.com

Submitted by:
Ms Shirley Johnson
Administrative Officer
St. Andrew AME Church
867 S. Parkway East
Memphis, TN 38106

- Joshua Matthew Jenkins graduated from Blackburn College, Carlinville, IL, Saturday, May 12, 2007. He earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Visual Art with a minor in Art History. Joshua is the son of Rev. Sam & Rev. Wanda Jenkins, pastors of Hyde Park AME Church, Chicago, IL. Well wishes and greetings may be sent to samueljenkins42@comcast.net

- New Book Announcement: A Father's Guide To Raising Daughters: For Women was recently published through Xulon Press by the Rev. Will S. Kenlaw III, Allen Chapel AME Church-Silver Spring, Maryland. The book offers the male perspective on raising daughters to mothers, especially the 10 million single mothers in America. It includes 30 Tips to help Mothers with the raising of daughters. This book won the S'Indie Award for Best Spiritual/Inspirational Book 2007.

Rev. Kenlaw is the father of four daughters, ages 18, 11, 8, and 6. Women responded so well to his first book, A Father's Guide To Raising Daughters: Because I Need One!!! (for men) that he released the second book specifically for the ladies. Both books are available via the Internet at Amazon.com, Borders.com, BarnesAndNoble.com, and Target.com. Reverend Kenlaw currently serves as Christian Education Director of the Potomac District of the Washington Conference in the 2nd Episcopal District of the African Methodist Episcopal Church. He formerly served as a Sunday School Superintendent for 10 years and a Steward Board member for 8 years.

Well wishes may be sent to Rev. KenlawE-mail: RevWill4God@aol.com

22. EPISCOPAL FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

Mrs. Eliza Mae Davis, mother of Supervisor Claytie Davis, Jr., and mother-in-love of Bishop Sarah F. Davis, passed Saturday, May 19, 2007 in Port Arthur, Texas. The homegoing celebration will take place Saturday, May 26, 2007, at 10:00 a.m.

Church:

Carter Chapel C.M.E. Church
549 West 8th Street
Port Arthur, Texas 77640

Pastor: The Reverend Robert McBride
Church Phone: 409-982-8445

Final Arrangements Entrusted to:

Gabriel Funeral Home
2500 Procter Street at DeQueen Blvd.
Port Arthur, TX 77640

Phone (409) 983-6661

Fax (409) 983-3776

Condolences May be Sent to:

The Davis Family
1500 Stillwell Blvd.
Port Arthur, Texas 77640

409-982-1572

Or

Supervisor Claytie and Bishop Sarah Davis
12214 Rocky Knoll Drive
Houston, Texas 77077

281-759-5123

Email Condolences:

Supervisor Claytie: claytiedavisjr@netscape.net
Bishop Sarah: bishopsarah@leo.co.ls

22. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

We regret to inform you of the passing of Rev. Nathaniel Stewart, Sr. Rev. Stewart was a retired pastor in the New Jersey Conference of the First Episcopal District. The following information has been provided.

Viewing and Funeral, Thursday, May 24, 2007
Viewing: 9:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.

Funeral: 11:00 a.m.

Location: Holy Temple COGIC
84 First Avenue South

Toms River, NJ 08757

Elder Davis C. Graham, pastor

Eulogist: Presiding Elder Joseph D. Patterson(Presiding Elder of the West District, Philadelphia Conference)

Condolences may be sent to:

Mrs. Elizabeth Stewart
76 3rd Avenue
Toms River, NJ 08757

23. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

We regret to inform you of the passing of Rev. Ellsworth Coleman. Rev. Coleman was a retired pastor of the Delaware Conference. The following information has been provided.

Funeral, Thursday, May 24, 2007 at 1:00 p.m.Location:

St. Paul A.M.E. Church
103 Mispillion Street
Harrington, DE 19904

The Rev. Cheryl M. Coleman, Pastor
Phone: 302-398-4343

Eulogist: Rev. Thomas Brown

Condolences may be sent to:

Mrs. Queenie Coleman
c/o St. Paul A.M.E. Church
103 Mispillion Street
Harrington, DE 19904

Please remember both the Stewart and Coleman families in your prayers.

Submitted by:

Dolores M. ClintonOffice Manager
First Episcopal District - A.M.E. Church
3801 Market Street
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104

(215) 662-0506 Phone
(215) 662-0199 Fax

24. PRAYER REQUESTS MAY 17, 2007;

We solicit your prayers for the family of the Reverend Doctor M. Arthur Camper, a superannuated Elder of The Baltimore Annual Conference of The African Methodist Church, passed from labor to reward on May 17, 2007. Reverend Camper was a current member of Trinity AME Church, Baltimore, Maryland and he was Pastor of Ebenezer AME Church, Baltimore, Maryland at the time of his request for retirement. He was a great pastor and musician who wrote words and music to several hymns such as Moses Moses, A Bicentennial Hymn, O God Our Blessed Lord, A Bicentennial Celebration Tribute song, We're Here To Celebrate Our 200th Anniversary and We do give thanks."We Do Give Thanks" is published in the current African Methodist Episcopal Hymnal on page 66.

His name is also listed in the Author section of the index erroneously as H, ARTHUR CAMPER. He and his wife were the originators of CASAIR (CLERGY AND SPOUSES ACTIVE IN RETIREMENT) for The Baltimore and Washington Conferences of the AME Church and he kept the retired and widows aware of the current activities of the Church.

25. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

The Rev. M. Arthur Camper, retired pastor of the Baltimore Conference, founder and chairperson of CASAIR (Clergy and Spouses Active in Retirement) went home to be with the Lord on Thursday, May 17, 2007.

Funeral arrangements are as follows:

Saturday, May 26, 2007 11:00 AM

Trinity AME Church
Baltimore, Maryland 21213

Wake at 10:00 AM at the same location

Condolences, cards, telephone calls etc. can be sent to:

603 North Augusta Avenue
Baltimore, Maryland 21229

410-362-9012

26. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

The Rev. Bedelia Commodore's father, Rev. Dr. Ellsworth Lee Coleman passed on Wednesday, May 16, 2007. Funeral arrangements held are as follows:

Thursday, May 24, 2007 1:00 PM

St. Paul AME Church
Harrington, Delaware

Family Hour at 12:30 PM at the same location

Condolences, cards, telephone calls etc. can be sent to:

P.O. Box 81
Barclay, Maryland 21607

410-758-1071

27. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

From: Aamconnoff@cs.com

We regretfully announce the untimely death of Kiva Gazaway, the daughter of the late Presiding Elder, Rev. William Gazaway and the late Dolores Gazaway, South Ohio Conference, Third Episcopal District. Kiva Gazaway is one of my church daughters.

Service Arrangements:Saturday, May 26, 2007

Visitation: 10:00-11:00 AM
Memorial Services: 11:00 AM
Allen Temple AME Church
7030 Reading Road
Cincinnati, OH 45237

Phone: 513-531-7539
Fax: 513-531-7596

Professional services entrusted to:

Thompson, Hall & Jordan Funeral Home
Silverton Office
6943 Montgomery Rd
Silverton, Ohio 45236

Toll-Free: 1-877-225-8555
Phone: 513-791-6208
Fax: 513-791-7334

Condolences may be sent to:

The family of Kiva Gazawayc/o Adrienne A. Morris
327 Washington Avenue
Wyoming, OH 45215

(513) 821-1481 Phone
(513) 821-3073 Fax

Send e-mail condolences to Adrienne A. Morris: Aamconnoff@cs.com

28. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

Mrs. Mattie Tyler, wife of Presiding Elder George Tyler lost her mother on Thursday, Mrs. Inez Rosenthal. The funeral will be held at Pearl Street AME Church, where Mrs. Rosenthal was a member.

Funeral Service Arrangements:Saturday, May 19, 20071:00 p.m.Viewing will be at 11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.Pearl Street AME Church2519 Robinson RoadJackson, MS 39209601-352-6087 Church Phone601-969-1501/FAX

The Rev. George W. Tyler is presiding elder of the Natchez-Port Gibson District of the Mississippi Conference.

Submitted by:

Evelyn H. Markey
Office Manager
8th Episcopal District - A.M.E. Church
4480 Gen DeGaulle Drive - Suite 210 A
New Orleans, LA 70131

(504) 393-9001 Office/(504) 393-9157 FAX

29. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

Homegoing Celebration for Sister Frankie L. Holland will be Saturday, May 19th, 2007 at 11:00 A.M. at Jerusalem Baptist Church in Houston, Texas.

Jerusalem Baptist Church
2201 Tuamm St.
Houston, Texas 77004

Ph: (713) 659-7723

Sister Holland's final earthly care has been entrusted to the:

Rylan C. Scott Funeral Home
1250 Texas Parkway, Suite A-1
Missouri City, Texas 77477

Ph: (281) 261-6495

Condolences May Be Sent To:

Brother Bennie & Presiding Elder Ida W. Keener
3206 Canyon Heights Road
Belton, Texas 76513

Ph: (832) 545-2714 Cell)
Ph: (254) 939-0608 (Home)

30. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

Regretfully announcing the passing of Sister Vickie Harris-Bradford; wife of the Rev. David Bradford-pastor of the Sealy / San Felipe Circuit-Southwest Texas Conference, 10th Episcopal District.

Service Arrangements held for Sister Vickie Harris-Bradford:

The Homegoing Celebration

Saturday, May 12, 2007

2:00 P.M.

MISSIONARY CAMP BAPTIST CHURCH

Rev. James Mable, Sr. - Pastor
9429 County Road 423
Navasota, Texas 77868

Ph: (936) 825-2146

Sister Bradford's final earthly care was entrusted to the:

Lewis Funeral Home
4010 Highway 105 E.
Brenham, Texas 77833

Ph: (979) 251-8724

Condolences may be sent to:

Rev. David Bradford
P. O. Box 1335
Giddings, Texas 78942

Ph: (979) 542-3290

Submitted by:

The Rev. Dr. Sherryl A. Matlock-Pastor
St. James A.M.E. Church
Denton, Texas

31. 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

32. 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.