Bishop Gregory G. M. Ingram - Chair, Commission on Publications
The Reverend Dr. Johnny Barbour, Jr., Publisher
The Reverend Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III, Editor
1. EDITORIAL - THE WATCH MEETING NIGHT SERVICES IN BLACK AMERICA BEGAN WITH THE AME CHURCH AND DATES BACK TO THE 1700’S:
Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III
We are approaching the New Year and pastors and local church leaders are busily planning special Christmas worship services, children’s Christmas programs and, hopefully, they are planning for Watch Meeting Night Services.
The Watch Night worship service has been a strong African Methodist tradition from the very beginnings of the AME Church. I mention that because there has been a revisionist account that originally stated that Watch Night Services in black communities can be traced back to gatherings on December 31, 1862, also known as "Freedom's Eve" when blacks came together in churches and private homes to await the news that the Emancipation Proclamation was going to become law. The revisionist account of the Watch Night Service says, “Black folks have gathered in churches annually on New Year's Eve ever since, praising God for bringing us safely through another year.” The story is heartwarming, but there is more to the story.
Today, the Watch Night Service is held in a lot of black and white churches and the Emancipation Proclamation piece certainly has some relevance. And, I am certain that the night of December 31, 1862 had a special meaning for the slaves. However, President Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation did not free all of the slaves, but I am also certain that, for those who were freed, December 31st remained a significant day in their lives as long as they lived.
But, the Watch Night service didn't begin in 1862; it began many years prior to that date.
The Watch Night Service reportedly began with the Moravians in Germany and was picked up by John Wesley who incorporated the service in Methodism. In England, Europe, and in America, the early Methodists and other religious groups also observed Watch Night services; the Moravians certainly did. The noted homiletician, Charles H. Spurgeon, a Baptist preacher, preached a Watch Night Sermon on December 3, 1855 and took his text from Lamentations 2:19.
In America, among the earliest Watch Night services was probably held at St. George Church in Philadelphia where Richard Allen was a member. To say that the Watch Meeting services began in the mid-1800 is a myth. It is certain that Richard Allen celebrated Watch Meeting night services at St. George Church and it would follow that Watch Meeting Night services were held at Mother Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church in Philadelphia.
Originally, Watch Night services were held to deepen the spiritual life of the Methodists and Wesley, himself explained in his Journal that watch Night services in England were generally held between 8:30 p.m. and 12:30 a.m. on the Friday nearest the full moon "so that participants walked safely home through moonlit streets." In 19th Century Philadelphia the Methodists continued the practice of watch-night services on New Year's Eve. The newly-formed AME Church members, wherever AME Churches were located, celebrated Watch Meeting Night services.
Watch Meeting Night Service is a tradition that I hope will continue because we have a lot for which to be thankful. All of us have a testimony to give, a song to sing and a prayer to be prayed. In the black community, the Watch Meeting Night began with us, the African Methodist Episcopal Church and with the Right Reverend Richard Allen, the first consecrated and elected bishop.
Though other denominations have Watch Night services, Watch Meeting Night worship is a Methodist tradition and we should never, ever, forget it.
2. READER RESPONSE TO EDITORIAL AND OTHER ISSUES:
- To the Editor:
RE: Editorial - Bishop Vashti Murphy McKenzie Took on World Aids Day Head-on and all of us in the AME Church need to be engaged head-on
What a wonderful statement for Bishop McKenzie and the 13th District Planning meeting.
What a good time to remind members of our Great Church that the Bishops of the African Methodist Episcopal Church were the first leaders of a major denomination to be tested in support of education regarding HIV/AIDS when the General Board/Bishops Council was held this past June.
It is our hope that people understand that there is no stigma of being sure that you are not infected, and if you are; that you will get treatment.
Our thanks to Bishop McKenzie for following-through and for sharing the much-needed information.
Bishop Carolyn Tyler Guidry
- To the Editor:
RE: Editorial - Bishop Vashti Murphy McKenzie Took on World Aids Day Head-on and all of us in the AME Church need to be engaged head-on
I write to applaud the insightful coverage and the occurrence of creative effective events at the 13th Episcopal District Planning Meeting led by Bishop Vashti Murphy McKenzie. The events of the planning meeting provided a keen focus on HIV and AIDS for those of the 13th District, and for those who read the Dec. 4 Christian Recorder Online article.
The theme of the annual December 1 World Health Organization (WHO) sponsored World AIDS Day for 2007 was, “Stop HIV/AIDS: Keep the Promise.” Hopefully the theme spoke to individuals and government agencies, and especially to leaders in the AME community--our bishops, pastors, clergy, officers, missionaries and parents.
For too long, the statement, “…that the religious community has been fiddling while Rome burns,” continues to be a reality. I believe that most churches and clergy did little, while people needlessly died from a mostly preventable infectious disease. Perhaps 2007 can be considered a turning point in recognition of what Jesus meant when he closed the parable of the Good Samaritan by saying, “You go and do likewise.”
In addition to World AIDS Day, which was observed on December 1, the month of December is dedicated to HIV/AIDS Awareness.
I attended the CDC sponsored “2007 HIV Prevention Conference” that was held on Dec 2-5 in Atlanta. This year’s meeting attracted over 3500 attendees and over 700 abstracts were submitted. Important points made at the Prevention Conference included:
- Due to more accurate reporting methods, the previous estimate of 40,000 new HIV infections in the USA is more like 55,000-60,000 new infections per year.
- Over 50% of new infections reported are in African Americans.
- Most people infected with HIV do not know that they are infected, and thus unknowingly spread the virus to others. Moreover, they do not focus on healthy-living to slow the progression to AIDS, or take advantage of anti-retroviral drug therapy to slow the impact of AIDS.
- While recent clinical trials of vaccines candidates or possible HIV infection protection devices that females can use have failed, there are many new and effective HIV/AIDS prevention intervention models that help people to address how HIV spreads, or how to live with AIDS as a chronic disease. Prevention is the only control that we have.
- It will take determined, continuous, long-term and multi-faceted approaches to reverse current trends of HIV that disproportionately affect people of color in the USA that has already devastated communities in many countries of Africa and communities in other countries.
- All of us can do something to stem the HIV/AIDS pandemic.
We should be encouraged by what has been done this year in the AME Church; which includes:
- The creativity and insight shown with the play and “preaching” at the 13th District’s planning meeting under leadership of Bishop McKenzie.
The commitment to a day of science-based continuing education for HIV/AIDS and onsite HIV testing at the 2007 Tawawa Christian Education Clergy Retreat at Payne Theological Seminary sponsored by the 3rd Episcopal District under the leadership of Bishop Robert Webster.
- The efforts of the Commission on Health under Bishop Paul Kawimbe to put in place a real working structure that will disseminate correct information and provide a template for how to set up health fairs and ministries that address health disparities including HIV/AIDS.
- The bold leadership shown by the Council of Bishop at the 2007 Investiture and General Board meeting under the leadership of Bishop Wilfred Messiah.
- The courageousness of our Episcopal leaders who “walked the talk” by getting test for the HIV/AIDS virus.
- The recent Balm in Gilead HIV/AIDS Black Church Institute and partnership with the AMEC WMS and others that focused anew on the current realities of this pandemic for people of color and what the black church must do.
- The Social Justice workshop brought in by Bishops Carolyn Tyler Guidry, Sarah Davis, James Davis, Paul Kawimbe and Wilfred Messiah that was dedicated to science-based HIV/AIDS training of clergy and leaders attending the Capetown meeting of the Global Development Council in February hosted by the 15th Episcopal District under the leadership of Bishop Samuel Green and the 19th Episcopal District under the leadership of Bishop James Davis.
- The continuing focus on HIV/AIDS by the WMS, building on long-time leadership of Supervisors, Drs. M. Joan Cousin, Pamela DeVeaux and Cecelia Bryant and others.
- The on-site testing for HIV infection included as part of the Christian Education Congress under the leadership of General Officer Dr. Daryl Ingram.
- The focus of AME-SADA on expanding its current work in Haiti and the planned work in South Africa, Zambia and Botswana to include HIV/AIDS support, testing and treatment.
- The securing of grant funding and establishment by Payne Theological Seminary for a resource website, especially for clergy and leaders in the faith community to learn about HIV/AIDS www.faithleadersresource.org.
We can work towards a world where there are little, or no, deaths or despair from HIV/AIDS.
I pray that more leaders and readers of The Christian Recorder will begin to ask, “What must I do to keep the promise”; “What must my family members and loved ones do to protect themselves to stop HIV transmission”; “What can my church and community do to get the word out that HIV prevention is all we have-- there is no cure, no vaccine.”
We must begin to genuinely care for one another without judging or moralizing. It is time to be obedient to the teachings of Jesus demonstrated in the Parable of the Good Samaritan; to “Go and do likewise.”
Dr. Oveta Fuller-Caldwell, pastor, Bethel AME Church, Adrian, Michigan and partner, AMEC Department of Global Witness and Ministry
3. AME-INDIA OVERVIEW OF THE COMMUNION SERVICE:
The AME-India Convocation’s Communion Service, held on Friday, November 16, 2007 in Chennai, India, was a Spirit-filled time of worship and fellowship.
Bishop Vashti McKenzie’s sermon, “The Power of the Cross” was masterfully woven from I Corinthians 1:11-18. Bishop McKenzie’s sermon set the spiritual tone for this life- changing experience as the delegations from both countries joined together as one to celebrate the Lord’s Supper at this historic event.
The “Power of the Cross” was truly made manifest in our spirits, hearts and minds. God’s Spirit transcended barriers of all kinds including language.
Thank God that His love and power to renew are universal!
Rev. Joyce Reece Johnson
H.M. Turner A.M.E. Church
Culver City, California
4. AME-INDIA CONVOCATION SURVEYED THE FOUNDATIONS OF THE AFRICAN METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH:
*Rev. Regina C. Groff
The Friday morning session commenced with tag team teaching by Rev. Dr. Floyd Flake, President of Wilberforce and Pastor of Allen Cathedral AME Church in Jamaica, NY; Rev. Dr. Harold Mayberry, Chairman of the AMEC Episcopal Committee and Pastor of First AME Church in Oakland, CA; and Rev. Regina C. Groff, 2nd Vice President of Fifth District Women In Ministry and Pastor of Campbell Chapel AME Church in Denver, CO. Each presented on “Foundations and Teachings of the AME Church” by covering three areas: The History, The Connection and Women and The AME Church.
Rev. Dr. Flake began with a stirring adaptation of “The History” of the AME Church. He spoke with passion about the historical relevance of the AME church. He recapped for some and introduced for others background on Richard Allen’s life, the “walk-out” from St. George’s, the beginning of the Free African Society, the significance of the anvil and the cross, and the meaning of A.M.E. Overall, Rev. Dr. Flake reinforced that we must know where we have come from before we can know where we are going.
Rev. Dr. Mayberry focused on the structure of the connectional AME Church. We followed him on a journey that traversed from the General Conference, Bishops Council, General Offices, General Board, and Judicial Council to Episcopal Districts, Annual Conferences and Local Congregations. He left no stone unturned as he described the composition, authority and responsibilities of each component of the AME church structure.
Rev. Groff concluded the session with an inspiring account of Woman and the AME Church. She highlighted women – named and unnamed – who have co-labored with their brothers to organize, build and sustain the AME church. Rev. Groff charged the women of India to accept their divine assignment in whatever form it comes – clergy spouse, prophet, evangelist, missionary, exhorter, pastor, presiding elder, bishop… The women were empowered by the great cloud of sister witnesses whose travail has made it possible for them to take their place, stand their ground and reach for the higher calling in Christ Jesus.
The three consecutive presentations surveyed the foundations of the AME church in a concise, but thorough analysis of how far we have come. All three presenters were clear that the history, the structure and the role of women have been first and foremost orchestrated by God. Furthermore, they acknowledged that because the foundation was built on rock, the AME church is yet alive.
*Pastor Regina C. Groff
Campbell Chapel A.M.E. Church
1500 East 22nd Avenue
Denver, CO 80205
(303) 839-5058 - Office
(303) 839-1720 - Fax
campbellchapel@aol.com
5. AME – INDIA PRAYER REPORT- NOVEMBER 2007:
We praise God for this historic month in the pages of the history of global AME. A new chapter has been added to it. It is the AME-India. The highlight of the month of November is the AME-India convocation which was held at Santhome Cathedral Basilica, Mylapore, Chennai, South India, from 14th to 18th November 2007. The significance of the location is that it is commonly believed according to the tradition of the Church in India, that the Apostle St. Thomas had initiated his missionary work, and built a church at this place 2000 years ago and now after 2006 years AME has initiated its mission work from the same location.
There were 94 AME-USA delegates and 200 AME-India delegates. The five days of the convocation was a real time of celebration and joy for everyone, but it was also a serious time of reflection on the Word of God and self introspection. The AME-India delegates have joyfully testified after the convocation, that they felt the presence on God during the convocation and have been deeply ministered to by the Holy Spirit through the messages, songs and teachings. Many of them have committed their lives to God as a result of the convocation. The YPD meet resulted in many of the youths committing their lives to Jesus and to the ministry. We praise God for touching these precious lives in a special manner. Special thanks to all the AME-USA delegates for all the gifts they shared with the Indian delegates. This historic event will remain in the minds of all those who have attended it. Special thanks to Bishop John Richard Bryant and Rev. Dr. Cecelia Williams Bryant, for without their help and guidance this event would not have taken place. Above all we thank God for the success of the event.
The Prince of Peace AME Church at Bangalore praises God for the opportunity they had to attend the convocation and they, along with Elder Joshua Vijayamani, are grateful to Bishop John and Rev. Cecelia for giving them this opportunity. They testify that they have all been blessed by the convocation and that the five days was an experience of heaven for them.
Mr. Peter, a member of this church who was a habitual drunkard, as a result of attending the convocation has given up the habit and is a renewed person, committed to God and the cause of the church. Mr. Dhavid, a member of this church resigned his job, because he was not sanctioned a leave to attend the convocation. He has been tremendously touched by the Holy Spirit during the convocation; and he strongly believes that God will provide him a better job than the previous one. Let us remember him in our prayers that God may honor his faith. The church requests prayer for Mr. Chinnappa who is admitted in the hospital as a result of an accident. He is responding to the treatment and is fast recovering.
The church in unison requests prayers for Mr. Alexander, who had attended the convocation. Mr. Alexander had lost one of his legs in an accident and has become a Transfemoral Amputee. His prosthesis has been worn out and he is having infection in the amputated leg. He requests for prayers for a new prosthesis, which is costing about Rs. 75, 000.00 (US$1924.00 @ Rs.39.00). He is unemployed and his wife is the sole bread-winner. They live with their two school going boys and their aged parents. Please remember him in your prayers. Nothing is too difficult for our God.
The Grace AME Church is the Nepali speaking congregation, based at Bangalore, under the leadership of Deacon Khrist Pal Rai. It is a small congregation of expatriate workers from Nepal and North-East Indian Nepali speaking workers at Bangalore. Rev. Pal Rai and members of his church are very grateful to Bishop John and Rev. Cee for this great opportunity to attend the AME-India convocation. It is a steadily growing congregation. Rev. Pal Rai requests prayers for his family as they are badly looking for an accommodation. Soon after they returned from the convocation they were asked to vacate the flat in which they lived, because it is part of the housing complex built by the government many years back, and it is to be demolished because it is in a dilapidated state. So Rev. Pal Rai has moved out along with his family to live with a member of his congregation.
Please pray that God would raise a Nepali speaking church planter to work among the Nepali speaking people in Chennai. There are good numbers of Nepali Christians in Chennai and they do not have a place of worship. Although Rev. Pal Rai wants to start a worship service at Chennai, practically he cannot cater to the needs of the people in two different cities simultaneously. Therefore there is a great need for a Nepali speaking church planter in Chennai.
Pastor Peter Morris reports that a lady named Manjula, did not have any issues for six years of marriage. She heard the gospel, and started coming to church after accepting Jesus as her personal savior. Now she is pregnant and this has grown her faith in Jesus. Please pray for her safe delivery.
We are also happy to inform that we have started Self Help Groups, Savings and Thrift, and Micro Finance programmes in the rural AME churches, in order to bring about economic independence for the rural women who are the most disprivileged lot. We foresee that the development of women will eventually cater to the development of the family, the church and finally to the society at large. We thank God for Rev. Darryl Michel Taylor who has committed himself for this work and is heading the Department of Community Transformation. Please pray for Rev. Darryl for God's wisdom and discernment in his work, as well as for travel mercies, as he travels long distances to the remote villages, to which there are limited transportation facilities and bad roads.
On 7th December 2007 we had the first Pastors meeting for a Thanks-giving service. 20pastors attended this meeting and shared their experiences of the first AME-India convocation. Rev. Joel Sekharan brought the message of God reminding the Pastors about the life, expectation and commitment of a servant of God. Most of the experiences shared by the Pastors were that they were deeply touched and moved by the agape love displayed by the AME delegates from USA. Many of them witnessed that the sermons were very enlightening. They testify to the anointing of the spirit of God during this time. One of them shared that he was immensely touched by the humility of Bishop John. Another Pastor testified that the sermon preached by Bishop John brought about a major turning point in his life and ministry. Everyone agreed that it was a time full of blessings.
We thank God for everything that God has done in the past month. We thank Bishop John and Rev. Cee for their untiring support and encouragement to us. We also thank all of you for your valuable prayers for us and the ministry of AME in India.
The Reverends Sarah & Abraham, Presiding Elders,
AME-India
6. UNDERSTANDING UNTOUCHABILITY: A PLEA FOR BLACK LIBERATION AND WOMANIST THEOLOGIANS TO CREATE A NEW HERMENEUTIC FOR DALIT CHRISTIANS OF INDIA:
By the Reverend Karla J. Cooper
Excerpt for the Christian Recorder December 2007
In Hindu society, caste is still the most powerful factor in determining a person’s dignity. A person is born into a caste and once born in that caste, one’s status is predetermined and immutable. To understand the origin and myth of the caste system is to see the Brahmins, the priestly class as those who came from the head of God. Since they come from the head of God, they are the ones eligible to learn and to be teachers. They are also the ones designated to perform sacrifices. The Brahmins are at the top of the caste system. They are also the “priestly class.”
The Tkchtrikas (or Kshatriyas) are the warrior class who came from the shoulder of God. They are also eligible for learning. Their work is to protect the people by waging war against the enemies. The shoulders support the head; hence the Tkchrikas (Kshatriyas) are second in the caste system hierarchy.
The Vyshas are the trading class who came from the belly (thigh) of God. They are responsible for working and feeding the above two classes. They are also known as the business people and industrialist.
The Sudras (Shudras) are the servant class that came from the feet of God. The Sudras are responsible to do all the menial work for the above three classes. The feet are the lowest part of God’s body, yet are necessary to complete the whole. They are not entitled to learn.
The other sub-castes or Untouchables or “Dalits” (Dalit is the new term of empowerment of this outcaste group) are at the bottom and outside of the society. They are the slaves of all of the other castes (even to the Shudras) and are forbidden to learn or teach. As one may note from the graphs, Dalits are not included in the social strata because of being outcastes, outside of the caste system, nonexistent, untouchable and polluted. The caste system has as its core a hierarchy known as “Varnashrama Dharma” which means color order righteousness and from an African American perspective, this could also be a fundamental principle to slavery in America.
The Reverend George Oommen, PhD, Chair and Professor of History of Christianity and Dean of Graduate Studies at United Theological College in Bangalore, explains the term “Dalit” in the following quote:
“The term ‘Dalit’ has come into popular use in India only very recently. The etymology of the term goes back to the 19th Century when a Marathi social reformer and revolutionary Mahatma Jyotirao Phule used it to describe the ‘outcaste and untouchables’ as the ‘oppressed and crushed victims of the Indian caste system.’ In the 1970s the Dalit Panther Movement of Maharashtra gave currency to the term ‘Dalit’ as a reminder that they are the deprived and the dispossessed section of Indian society and as a means of rejecting other names given to them with a paternalistic attitude.”
Dr. Oomen adds that the outcastes in India have been known by different names such as: “Harijan” which means children of Han (God) given by Gandhi; “Avarrias” meaning casteless; “Panchamas” meaning fifth caste; “Chandalas” meaning worst of the earth; “Depressed classes” given during the British colonial days and the “Scheduled Caste” given by the Indian Constitution. The recent Dalit protest movements in India have increasingly used the term Dalit to demonstrate the rejection of derogatory names given by outsiders and further, to refer to their pain, suffering and hope for liberation.”
Ironic as it may seem, the caste system even permeates the church. Dalit Christians within the church are discriminated against and denied powers within the ecclesiastical structure. Archbishop George Zur, Apostolic Pro-Nuncio to India stated, “Scheduled caste converts are treated as lower caste not only by high caste Hindus but by high caste Christians too...Casteism is rampant among the clergy and the religious. Though Dalit Christians make 65 percent of the 10 million Christians in the South, less than 4 percent of the parishes are entrusted to Dalit priests. There are no Dalits among 13 Catholic Bishops of Tamilnadu or among the Vicars-general and rectors of seminaries and directors of social assistance centres.”
Oomen adds that in the Protestant Church there is no difference except that some Dalits have been elevated to Bishopric and other positions of power recently. Many Dalit Christian leaders refer to the “thrice-alienated” situation of the Dalit Christians in India, namely, discrimination within the Church, discrimination by Hindu culture and discrimination by the State as they are denied Scheduled Caste status in the Constitution, and the related privileges which come with that status.
7. PREACHING OPPORTUNITY FOR NASHVILLE AREA PREACHERS:
Baptist Hospital Call for Chapel Preachers
Note: This is an ongoing need. Please forward.
Baptist Hospital has a small 20 minute chapel service every Wednesday generally attended by 15-20 staff. In choosing preachers for the chapel service, the Pastoral Services Dept at Baptist pulls from a list of ministers who have volunteered to speak for 5-10 minutes on a topic of their choice. The volunteer preachers tend to be Southern Baptist and Church of Christ and Pastoral Services would welcome Divinity students and denominational diversity. The hospital can't pay speakers, but does treat them to lunch with the (3-4) chaplains in the Physicians' Dining Room after the service, which is always a nicely catered meal. If you're thinking about CPE, this is a good opportunity to visit. It's also a great way to practice giving a short sermon for a small, very appreciative group. Sign up for the new year with friends from your homiletics class!
Chapel is Wednesdays from 12:00-12:20pm. Baptist is located at 21st & Church, a short walk from campus.
To volunteer contact Kathleen Potts, Assistant to the Director of Pastoral Services, phone: (615) 284-7495 Email: kathleen.potts@baptisthospital.com
8. THE 5TH DISTRICT CLERGY FAMILY ORGANIZATION HOST SPOUSES IN CHENNAI, INDIA:
The Fifth Episcopal District Clergy Family Organization under the leadership of Rev. Dr. Cecelia Williams Bryant hosted a Clergy Spouses Luncheon during their recent journey to Chennai, India. Fourteen ministers’ spouses in this southern Indian city came together to fellowship with 5th District clergy spouses and their guests during this historic gathering.
Lady Doris Denson Belcher, President of the 5th District Clergy Family Organization and her committee planned the luncheon along the identical lines of the spouses gatherings held during each of our Annual Conferences stateside. Special guests included Supervisor Stan McKenzie of the 13th Episcopal District.
After welcome and introductions by Lady Dianne Freeman, the Rev. Brenda Hector offered the invocation before a delicious luncheon of traditional Indian cuisine with a mix of western dishes was enjoyed by all.
Lady Belcher then gave a brief overview of the Clergy Family Organization citing its purposes to serve as a network and support system for families who serve the church in the preaching and pastoral ministry. She further explained how the organization seeks to assist clergy spouses to come to the understanding and appreciation for their roles as vital and viable partners in ministry.
Lady Charlotte Ned followed with words of encouragement and the importance of clergy spouses keeping one another lifted up.
The spouses from India organized and elected Greeni Joshua Vijayamani as their first Clergy Family Organization President.
Prayer partners between the U.S. and Indian spouses are being established in order to maintain ongoing support.
Mrs. Charlotte Ned
5th Episcopal District
Reporting
9. STEWARDS AND TRUSTEES HAVE IMPORTANT ROLES IN THE LOCAL CHURCH, IF THEY FUNCTION AS THEY SHOULD:
*Orletta Caldwell
In the African Methodist Episcopal Church, the Stewards and Trustees have an important responsibility in our denomination. Unfortunately holding one of these offices offers the individual a title without them knowing how critical their role is within the church. When properly functioning, they handle the spiritual (Stewards) and physical (Trustees) needs of the local congregation. Too often our members look only to the Pastor for all of the aspects of the church’s existence. Pastors are often just as guilty of attempting to micro-manage the work. This practice is detrimental to not only the Pastor, but to the membership as well. As one person have only so many gifts.
Like a secular not for profit organization, steward and trustee’s boards have important responsibilities. Non-profit literature states that the non-profit board’s paramount duty is to assure that the organization’s work is in line with their mission. This is what separates this sector from private, for profit entities. Specifically, stewards and trustees are acting on behalf of the local church and yes, the community.
Fulfilling the management roles of the church in the 21st Century calls for leaders who are corporate-minded, have experience in various occupations and have special skills. No longer can officers who do not know the basics of accounting, or management practices, be called upon to know or understand the laws governing our churches. We need to go beyond the, “good old boys” networks of the past.
So what can a church or the officers do to properly fulfill their obligation?
First, the Board members must monitor the organizational health of the Church. This may start by surveying the congregation to assess the needs. Another requirement should be for all officers to review the Mission of the AME Church, from the biblical principles, The Discipline, and the local church; to decide if the actions of the church have been aligned with the Bible and the laws of the Church. It is incumbent for pastors to find key people in the church who are knowledgeable in areas that may be beneficial to the church, even if it’s on an ad-hoc basis.
In the post-Enron world, non-profits are being held more accountable by the government. Good intentions or ignorance will not rescue churches who get embroiled in adverse legal situations.
The role of the steward and trustee board’s relationship to the pastor is important.
Are the trustees and stewards relinquishing most of their responsibility to the pastor? How many times have members asked a steward or trustee a question, and the response is, “Ask Pastor!” This should not be. Church officers should be knowledgeable and proactive.
It is incumbent upon the Boards to devise mission-driven governance practices for the long-term health of the local church. This process does not exclude the pastor, but unites the trustees, stewards and pastor into an efficient, highly-functioning team that precipitates church growth.
The members of our local churches are holding the stewards and trustees in trust to represent their needs and create an organization where God is always honored.
Orletta Caldwell is from Payne Chapel in Colorado Springs, Colorado
10. THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES OF TURNER THEOLOGICAL SEMINARY (TTS) SEEKS A CANDIDATE FOR THE POSITION OF PRESIDENT/ DEAN. DEADLINE FOR APPLICANTS’ SUBMISSION: JANUARY 15, 2008:
Position: President/Dean
Salary: Unspecified
Institution: Turner Theological Seminary
Location: Atlanta, Georgia
Date Posted: 9/15/2007
Turner Theological Seminary
President/Dean
The Board of Trustees of Turner Theological Seminary (TTS) seeks a candidate for the position of President/ Dean. The position is to be filled on or before the Academic school year 2008-2009.
Candidates for the position should possess the following minimum qualifications:
1. An earned Master of Divinity Degree from a seminary accredited by ATS. Post Graduate Degree desired.
2. An Itinerant Elder of at least 4 years in the African Methodist Episcopal Church.
3. Pastoral and/or Educational experience required
Interested Applicants should send a cover letter, short bio, and resume or vitae.
Applications will be treated with the utmost confidentiality. Applicants can submit information by mail or online. Deadline to submit materials are January 15, 2008.
All materials should be sent to:
The Rev. Gregory Eason
Chair, Presidential Search Committee
204 Auburn Avenue
Atlanta, Georgia 30303
Or
[TurnerPresident@aol.com]
11. ROSA PARKS MEMORY LIVES ON WITH AFFORDABLE HOUSING INITIATIVE:
Ward Economic Development Corporation has proudly assembled a stellar team to develop 60 units of affordable housing (one and two bedrooms) for our elders that born of a vision by Leo Branton, Jr. The project honors the legacy of Mother Rosa Parks with the strong support and leadership of Councilman Herb Wesson.
Rosa Parks Villas is located at 2507 S. Bronson Avenue in Los Angeles.
The project consists of a 60 apartment complex for low and very low income seniors, age 62+ who can live independently. The site is bounded by Crenshaw Blvd and the I-10 freeway with entrance on Bronson Ave. This irregular shaped site provides for an interesting configuration of layout and lovely landscaped courtyards at various locations on site. Parking is all at-grade level and fully secured.
Visitors may enter the complex via a Kiosk structure on Bronson. The entry Kiosk is equipped with a security call system, electronically controlled gate and closed circuit TV. Visitors driving to the complex may be admitted by a call system at the vehicular main gate at Bronson Avenue.
There are 51 one bedroom apartments (625 Sq ft) & 9 two bedroom/2 bath apartments (1,047 Sq ft). Each apartment has a fully equipped kitchen and easy access to all the amenities within the complex. Amenities consist of:
- A Grand Activity Room with large picture windows and high ceilings and space for Day-to-Day activities within the room like lunches, teas, informational seminars, and other gatherings. It will include a small kitchen for refreshment service.
- A Lounge on each floor with a small area to watch TV and socialize
- A Game Room
- A centralized Laundry Area.
- A Gym or Exercise Room
- Garden court with fountain & outdoor garden l
- Cable TV ready and Computer Network
- Energy Efficient systems for HVAC
WEDC is concerned about the quality of life for the residents of Rosa Parks Villas, so a Resident Manager will be on site and responsible for the smooth and efficient operation of the building as well as insuring life enhancing activities for the residents. This project expects to break ground in the fall of 2007 having been awarded over $5 million from the LA Housing Trust Fund (LAHD) and a FLITC award of over $10 million. LISC participated as the acquisition lender. SunAmerica Housing Fund 1559 is the investor partner and California Bank and Trust is the construction lender and permanent lender.
12. HAMPTON UNIVERSITY AUTHOR RELEASES DEVOTIONAL BOOK:
Hampton University employee Linda Mose Meadows, of Newport News, VA, has released a devotional book titled, “The Blessedness Of Believing: A Devotional Journey of Life's Lessons And God's Promises.”
Published by Tate Publishing and Enterprises, Meadows’ book is a collection of personal sentiments and biblical reflections meant to uplift, encourage and inspire. These expressions of faith, she says, are written for daily devotional time and to complement Bible study.
The book is available at any bookstore nationwide or can be ordered through barnesandnoble.com, amazon.com or target.com. Audio versions of the book are also available.
Meadows received her bachelor’s degree from Howard University and a master’s degree in public affairs administration from the State University of New York at Buffalo. Currently an employee of Hampton University in the Religious Studies program, Meadows is also an inspirational speaker who encourages ministry leaders and lay people to embrace their calling in life. She resides in Newport News, VA, with her husband, Reverend Richard D. Meadows, Jr., who pastors on the Virginian shore.
13. THE 2007-2008 FOURTH EPISCOPAL DISTRICT CALENDAR:
The Fourth Episcopal District
400 East 41st Street - Suite 114 - Chicago, Illinois 60653-0539
The Right Rev. Philip R. Cousin, Sr., Presiding Bishop
Office: 773.373.6587
Fax: 773.373.8356
Email: 4thadministrator@sbcglobal.net
Website: www.fourthdistrictame.org
__________________________________________________
2007
December 8th
Bishop Cousin: Preaching for P. E. Allan Parrott, Charleston, SC
December 20th & 21st
4th District YPD Winter Institute** (**or January 18-20)
2008
February 8th & 9th
4th District Founder’s Day Celebration, Hyatt Regency, Dearborn, MI,
313-593-1234 or 800-233-1234. Room rate: $109 single/double/triple/quad plus tax; Regency Club $149 plus tax. Reservation Deadline is 1/8/08. Free parking.
February 12th
Bishop Cousin: Founder’s Day Preacher, Wilberforce University
April 3rd-5th
4th District Mid-Year Convocation, Crowne Plaza O’Hare, Rosemont, IL.
Room rate is $99 per night plus tax (single/double/triple/quad); parking $10 per day with in/out privileges for hotel guests only. Reservation Deadline is 3/19/08. Celebration of 32 years of Excellence for Bishop and Mrs. Cousin on Friday,
April 4th at 7pm; Dinner Banquet Tickets $75.
April 25th-27th
4th District Minister’s Spouses Retreat, Camp Baber
May 9th
Bishop Cousin: Commencement Preacher, Payne Seminary
May 13th-15th
4th District Minister’s Retreat, Camp Baber; WIM Summit, May 12th
June 20th & 21st
4th District Leadership Training Institute. Site TBD
June 26-28th
4th District 66th Annual Lay Convention
July 23rd-26th
4th District Christian Education Congress, Wyndham Lisle Hotel, Lisle, IL, telephone 630-505-1000 or 800-996-3426. Room Rate-$97 single/double; free parking. Reservation Deadline is July 8th
August 3rd-10th
Canadian Annual Conference, Crowne Plaza Toronto, 416-449-4111 or
877-474-6835. Room Rate: $129 single; $ 139 double; $ 149 triple; $ 159 quad
(Canadian/plus tax); Reservation Deadline: July 11th. Free parking.
Host: Grant AMEC, Toronto, Rev. Cory Millben, Pastor and P. E.
August 18th-25th
Michigan Annual Conference, Hyatt Regency Hotel, Dearborn, MI,
313-593-1234 or 800-233-1234. Room Rate: $ 109 single/double/triple/quad plus tax. Reservation Deadline is 8/10/08. Free parking.
Host: Ebenezer AMEC, Detroit, MI, Rev. H. Michael Lemmons, Pastor
September 7th-14th
Illinois Annual Conference, Site to be determined.
Host: Ward Chapel AMEC, Peoria, Illinois, Rev. James Bailey, Pastor
September 21st-28th
Indiana Annual Conference. Site TBD.
Host: Central Indiana Ministerial Alliance, Rev. Samuel Sumner, President.
October 5th-12th
Chicago Annual Conference, Wyndham Hotel, Lisle, IL. Room Rate: $115 flat plus tax; Reservation Deadline is 9/3/08. Free parking.
Host: Coppin AMEC, Chicago, IL, Rev. Walter Bauldrick, Pastor
October 23rd-25th
4th District Planning Meeting, Crowne Plaza O’Hare, Rosemont, IL. Room Rate is $99 flat plus tax; Reservation Deadline is 10/08/08. Parking $5 per day with in/out privileges for hotel guests only.
14. CLERGY FAMILY CONGRATULATORY NOTICES:
- The pastors, ministers and the congregations of the Western New York Annual Conference are happy and pleased to announce the wedding of their Presiding Elder, The Reverend James E.F. Lawrence to Sister Mitzi J. Williams, which took place on Saturday, November 17, 2007 at 11:00 a.m. at Israel AME Church, Albany, NY. The Rev. Dr. Edward B. Smart, host pastor and Bishop Richard Franklin Norris officiated. We wish this new couple God's speed and a life of happiness.
- Kathy J. Pendleton successfully defended her dissertation on November 26, 2007. She was awarded a Ph.D. in Counseling and Personnel Services from the University of Louisville. Dr. Pendleton and will be hooded at the December 13, 2007 graduation.
Kathy is the wife of Rev. Mac Pendleton, pastor of Bethel AME Church in Campbellsville, KY.
Congratulatory Expressions may be sent to: k.pendleton@insightbb.com
- Desmond Michael Taylor will receive a Masters in Therapeutic Recreation on Friday, December 7, 2007 at Southern University-Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Desmond's proud parents are The Reverend Leroy & Joyce J. Taylor.
Congratulatory Expressions may be sent to: princessjoylee@bellsouth.net
15. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
We regret to inform you of the passing of Mrs. Florence Vernice Smith Sparkman on Saturday, December 1, 2007. Mrs. Sparkman was the mother of the Rev. Harvey H.B. Sparkman, III, pastor of Antioch AME Church in Frankford, Delaware (Dover District, Delaware Conference). Mrs. Sparkman was a faithful member of the Ladies Auxiliary Usher Board for more than 30 years at Mt. Pisgah AME Church in Philadelphia. She served until her health failed. The following information has been provided regarding funeral arrangements.
Funeral Services will not be scheduled. Mrs. Sparkman's body has been donated to science for state anatomical use.
Expressions of Sympathy may be sent to:
Rev. Harvey H.B. Sparkman
Antioch A.M.E. Church
192 Clayton Avenue
Frankford, DE 19945
Please remember the family of Mrs. Florence Vernice Smith Sparkman in your prayers.
16. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
Sharing with regret the passing of Mr. Meridth Steven Ross, the brother of Mrs. Helen Ross Boykin and the brother-in-law of Rev. Ronald Boykin, pastor of First A.M.E. Church of Manassas, VA (Washington Conference) 2nd Episcopal District.
Service arrangements for Mr. Meridith Steven Ross:
Wednesday, December 5, 2007
Family Visitation: 10:00 a.m.
Funeral: 11:00 a.m.
Marshall's Funeral Home
4217 9th Street NW
Washington, DC 20011
Phone: (202) 723-1250
Expressions of sympathy may be sent to:
Rev. and Mrs. (Helen) Ronald Boykin
14521 Penderlea Court
Gainesville, VA 20155
(703) 753-4171
Email: MrsHelenBoykin@aol.com
17. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
We regret to inform you of the passing of Mrs. Lucille Blake, the mother of the late General Officer, Rev. Dr. James Blake. The following information has been provided regarding funeral arrangements.
Viewing and Funeral - Thursday, December 6, 2007
Viewing - 4:00 p.m. - 6:45 p.m.
Funeral -7:00 p.m.
St. Luke A.M.E. Church
1872 Amsterdam Avenue
New York, New York 10031
Phone: 212-870-1349
Fax: 212-870-1322
Rev. Melvin E. Wilson, Pastor
Interment - Friday, December 7, 2007
George Washington Memorial Cemetery
Paramus, NJ
Expressions of Sympathy may be sent to:
Mrs. Mary G. Davis and family
C/o St. Luke AME Church
1872 Amsterdam Avenue
New York, NY 10031
Please remember the family of Mrs. Lucille Blake in your prayers.
18. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
Rev. Henry D. Andrews, Senior Pastor of Rock Temple A.M.E. Church in Conyers, GA, passed on Saturday evening. Rev. Andrews is survived by his wife, Mrs. Teresa Andrews. The home-going observance has been planned for:
Thursday, December 6, 2007
11:00 A.M.
New Bethel A.M.E. Church
8300 Rockbridge Road
Lithonia, Georgia 33058
The Reverend Ronald Owens, Pastor
Church phone: 770-484-3350
Professional services by:
Andrew's Funeral Home
116 Joseph E. Lowery Blvd NW
Atlanta, Georgia 30314
404-522-7735
Condolences may be sent to the funeral home or to the church:
Rock Temple A.M.E. Church
1021 Bryant Street
Conyers, Georgia 30012
TEL 770-922-5707
19. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
Sharing with regret the passing of Mrs. Lillie Mae Edwards, the mother of the Rev. Jackueline Edwards, pastor of Shady Grove A.M.E. Church in Quitman, MS.
Schedule of Service for Mrs. Lillie Mae Edwards:
Visitation:
Friday, December 7, 2007
5:00 P.M. - 9:00 P.M.
McMichael A.M.E. Church
13051 McMichael Road (Hwy 51)
Amite, LA 70422
Funeral Service:
Saturday, December 8, 2007
2:00 P.M.
McMichael A.M.E. Church
13051 McMichael Road
Amite, LA 70422
Professional Services provided by:
Richardson Funeral Home
Northwest Central Ave.
Amite, LA 70422
Telephone 985-748-4224
Expressions of sympathy may be sent to:
Rev. Jackueline Edwards
P. O. Box 1190
Amite, LA 70422
985-351-6576
20. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICES AND CONGRATULATORY ANNOUNCEMENTS PROVIDED BY:
The Clergy Family Information Center
Bishop Carolyn Tyler Guidry, Chair
Commission on Social Action
Ora L. Easley, Administrator
AMEC Clergy Family Information Center
E-mail: Amespouses1@bellsouth.net
Phone: (615) 837-9736
Voice Mail: (615) 833-6936
Fax: (615) 833-3781
Cell: (615) 403-7751
21. CONDOLENCES TO THE BEREAVED FROM THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER:
The Chair of the Commission on Publications, the Right Reverend Gregory G. M. Ingram; the Publisher, the Reverend Dr. Johnny Barbour and the Editor of The Christian Recorder, the Reverend Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III offer our condolences and prayers to those who have lost loved ones. We pray that the peace of Christ will be with you during this time of your bereavement.
Archive of The Christian Recorder Online from 2004-2016; Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III, 20th Editor of The Christian Recorder
12/04/2007
THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER ONLINE ENGLISH EDITION (12/4/07)
Bishop Gregory G. M. Ingram - Chair, Commission on Publications
The Reverend Dr. Johnny Barbour, Jr., Publisher
The Reverend Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III, Editor
1. EDITORIAL - BISHOP VASHTI MURPHY MCKENZIE TOOK ON WORLD AIDS DAY HEAD-ON AND ALL OF US IN THE AME CHURCH NEED TO BE ENGAGED HEAD-ON:
Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III
The Thirteenth Episcopal District Planning meeting was held at the same time as World AIDS Day, which was observed on December 1, 2007; and Bishop McKenzie, in addition to doing all of the things that needed to be done at an episcopal district planning meeting, focused upon the important issue of HIV/AIDS, which is devastating the black community; and she did it in a creative way.
But first, she scheduled great preachers for the meeting; the Right Reverend Richard Allen Chappelle, presiding prelate of the 12th Episcopal District and the Right Reverend Samuel Green, presiding prelate of the 15th Episcopal District.
Bishop Chappelle preached about dreams and what can happen to dreamers, even today. When dreamers share their dreams, they take risks and sometimes the price they pay is high. It was as if he was speaking not only to the congregation, but he seemed to be speaking to the candidates for episcopal service who attended the planning meeting in great numbers.
The Right Reverend Samuel Green was the “Hour of Power” preacher and did he speak with power! Bishop Green spoke form Psalm 42:1ff and used as his subject, “How to Handle Depression.” He explained that depression is a mental state that knocks on everybody’s door. He explained that church folks can handle depression by their desire to, seek the LORD, seek the Word of God, acknowledge our pain, remember God’s blessings; and to learn how to praise and trust God in all seasons. The preacher’s words, which were from God, were the right words for the right time.
The various component committees and workgroups met and completed their business. It was an efficient planning meeting.
The creativity, the challenge, and the “meat” of the planning meeting began on Friday evening with the one woman-performance of “Sometimes I Cry” by Sheryl Lee Ralph. What a performance about the lives, loves, and losses of women affected by AIDS/HIV. Ralph says, “These women’s voices have been silent for too long in the struggle against HIV/AIDS and must be heard. Their health and well-being matters too.” Sheryl Lee Ralph is a talented actress and knows how to connect with the audience. After her performance, she allowed the audience to ask questions, which she addressed in a professional manner. She fielded questions from young and old alike and finally, because of time, the questions had to be stopped. The energy was high and it was a great evening.
The sold-out show was held at the Tennessee Performing Arts Center and a reception was held for invited guests after the performance in the Museum of the Tennessee Performing Arts Center.
But that wasn’t all, the closing session of the planning meeting was held at Greater Bethel AME Church, but a traditional closing sermon was not scheduled to be preached.
A more important sermon was preached and that “sermon” touched the lives of young and old alike. The “introduction” of the sermon was a session on HIV/AIDS that was held for preachers. That session was filled to capacity and it was truly the introduction to the sermon. We thought it was the sermon, but it wasn’t.
The “meat and gravy” of the sermon was the workshop that was held in the nave of Greater Bethel. The church was filled to capacity on the main level, in the balcony, and in the hallways and out into the parking lot. The church was full of young people attentive to the discussion about HIV/AIDS and other Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs).
The panel consisted of three medical doctors, the Reverend Dr. Kenneth Robinson, Dr. Cornelia Graves, Dr. Cecil Cone III, and two women who were infected with the HIV/AIDS virus. Those two women and those medical doctors “kept it real.” Brother Reggie Farris a licentiate at St. John, Nashville was the facilitator.
The young people and the adults paid attention. Folks didn’t leave early; as a matter of fact the young folks were hanging around, long after the benediction. And, not only that, but young people were in line to be tested for the HIV/AIDS virus; the line went down the hallway.
Now, that was a sermon!
Our local churches need more “sermons” like the one that was “preached” at the closing of the 13th Episcopal District planning Meeting.
As with the one-women performance of Sheryl Lee Ralph on Friday night, the questions had to be cut off because of time and the those had questions met with the panel members after the benediction; now that’s church! We need more “church” in the AME Church because blacks have the highest rate of infection and black American women have the highest rate of new HIV/AIDS infections.
For instance, Washington, D.C., has the highest rate of AIDS in the United States, and more babies are born with the AIDS virus in Washington than in any other U.S. city.
People living in Washington and in other areas are not getting tested for HIV and show up with advanced infections that progress quickly to AIDS; that’s the report by city health officials across America.
According the “Sometimes I Cry” program bulletin, HIV is a virus that is transmitted from person to person through the exchange of body fluids such as blood, semen, breast milk and vaginal secretions. Sexual contact is the most common way to spread HIV, but it can also be transmitted by sharing needles when injecting drugs. AS HIV reproduces, it damages the body’s immune system and the body becomes susceptible to illness and infection.
The program bulletin also states that AIDS is a condition that describes an advanced state of HIV infection. With AIDS, the virus has progressed, causing significant loss of white blood cells (CD4 cells) or any of the cancers of infections that result from immune system damage.
The church, generally and the AME Church, specifically, can fight the HIV/AIDS battle only if people get tested. Pastors, church leaders, and the African American community must get actively involved, and that was Bishop McKenzie’s message; that was Ms Sheryl Lee Ralph’s message; that was the message of the medical doctors and the two HIV/AIDS infected ladies on the panel at the closing session at Greater Bethel. HIV/AIDS is not “their problem” it’s “our problem.”
The gay community, which several years ago, had the highest incidence of HIV/AIDS infection, cut their HIV/AIDS infection rate by 90 percent, mainly by HIV/AIDS testing. The black community needs to follow their example and stress to the black community the need for HIV/AIDS testing. We need to test our young people and our old people because there are many in the black community who are infected with HIV/AIDS and don’t know that they are infected. Those who are infected need treatment and treatment will enhance the quality of their lives. Without treatment, their lives will deteriorate and they will die.
As Dr. Kenneth Robinson, pastor of St Andrew, Memphis said again and again at the workshop, “We all have to die sooner or later, but we want it to be later.”
If you are reading this, think and say, “Later.” Get treated and you might live a long live. If you don’t get treated, you are going to die sooner.
2. CONNECTIONAL AME CHURCH DATES TO REMEMBER:
Christmas – December 25
2008
Epiphany – January 6
21st Church Growth and Evangelism Seminar, ATL, GA, January 8-11
WMS Executive Meeting, Charlotte, SC - January 23 - 27
Founder’s Day – February 14
GDC Executive Meeting - 17th District - February 5 - 8
Ash Wednesday – February 6
Good Friday – March 21
Easter – March 23, 2008
CONVO XI / General Board, Dallas, TX - April 14 - 16, 2008
Ministries in Christian Education, Columbus, OH - April 24 -26
Ascension Day – May 1
Pentecost Sunday – May 11
Mother’s Day – May 11
Hampton University Ministers' Conference - June 2 - 6
48th Quadrennial Session of the General Conference - July 4 - 11
For more AME dates and information, go to the official AME Website: http://www.ame-church.com/
3. SOME OF THE APPOINTMENTS AT THE 13TH EPISCOPAL DISTRICT PLANNING MEETING:
Presiding Elder Linda Martin from West Kentucky Annual Conference to West Tennessee Annual Conference; Presiding Elder Ralph Johnson from the Kentucky Annual Conference to the West Kentucky Annual Conference; the Reverend Kenneth Golphin from St. Paul, Lexington to presiding elder of the Kentucky Annual Conference; the Reverend Troy Thomas (the Reverend Maxine Thomas) transferred from the Philadelphia Annual Conference to the Kentucky Annual Conference and assigned to St. Paul AME Church, Lexington, Kentucky.
4. EPISCOPAL SUPERVISOR STAN MCKENZIE, RETIRED NBA PLAYER, EXCUSED EARLY FROM THE 13TH DISTRICT PLANNING MEETING:
Bishop Vashti Murphy McKenzie excused Supervisor Stan McKenzie from the closing session of the 13th Episcopal District Planning Meeting so that he could attend a reunion of some of his retired Baltimore Bullets teammates as they gathered to celebrate the Washington Wizards’ retiring of Earl “The Pearl” Monroe’s Number 10 Jersey. Monroe was drafted in 1967 by the Baltimore Bullets - the Wizards' predecessor - and played for the franchise until 1971.
It was important for Supervisor Stan to attend the reunion because he was the roommate of Earl “The Pearl” Monroe when they both played for the Bullets. The Washington Wizards retired Monroe's Number 10 jersey last Saturday night (12/1/07) at halftime of their game against the Toronto Raptors.
Monroe's jersey is fourth to be retired by the franchise. It took its place next to Wes Unseld's No. 41, Elvin Hayes' No. 11 and Gus Johnson's No. 25.
Supervisor Stan McKenzie had the pleasure of being in the owner's box with Bishop Vashti Murphy McKenzie, Abe Pollin and his wife Irene along with other basketball notables such as Earl Monroe, Kevin Loughery, Archie Clark, Phill Chenier, Wes Unseld, Mike Riordan, and Mike Davis.
An informal dinner was held at Morton's Restaurant on Connecticut Avenue to celebrate the Washington Wizards retiring of Earl "The Pearl" Monroe's jersey.
Supervisor Stan McKenzie played for the Baltimore Bullets in 1967 and he was Monroe’s roommate. Earl “The Pearl” Monroe was the best man in McKenzie’s wedding.
The retiring of Monroe’s jersey was capped by Caron Butler scoring 29 points and Antawn Jamison scoring 28-points that led the Washington Wizards to a 101-97 victory over the Toronto Raptors. Roger Mason Jr. netted 15 points and DeShawn Stevenson also chipped in with 11 for the Wizards.
When the halftime ceremony was held, Monroe was joined on the court at half-time by former Bullets, our own Stan McKenzie, Mike Davis, Mike Riordan, Archie Clark, Kevin Loughery, Phil Chenier, Wes Unseld and Ernie Grunfeld.
Editor’s Comment: Thank you, Supervisor Stan; we love to see members of the African Methodist Episcopal Church in the limelight.
5. THE 139TH SESSION OF THE ARKANSAS ANNUAL CONFERENCE:
Union AME Church in Little Rock, Arkansas was the selected site for the Twelfth Episcopal District Arkansas Annual Conference held on November 14-18, 2007.
The pastor and first lady, Rev. Randolph Martin and Mrs. Charolett Martin crossed all T’s and dotted all I’s as they prepared for the last of the seven conference to be presided over by the dynamic duo, Bishop Richard Allen Chappelle Sr., and Mother Barbara Jeanne Chappelle before their retirement in 2008. Their work did not go unnoticed as the members of the conference assembled in the sanctuary for the opening worship service on Wednesday, November 14, 2007 at 10:00 a.m.
The Rt. Rev. Richard Allen Chappelle, Sr., presiding Bishop of the 12th Episcopal District led the opening worship Service of the 139th Session of the Arkansas Annual Conference. Rev. James Thomas III presided over the worship service due to illness of Presiding Elder Charles M. Cleaver. Reverend John Grissom, pastor of Allen Chapel, Sweet Home, Arkansas gave a soulful testimony in his sermon, “This is My Story: Our God Is an Awesome God” from Hebrews 10:19-25. He reminded us of the awesome power of a God, who is no respecter of persons and the things he can do that no other person can do.
The Ecumenical Service was held on Wednesday night featuring the Male Chorus from Greater Center Star Baptist Church whose soul stirring renditions opened the way for their pastor, The Reverend Limmie Downs, who reminded us “ Don’t Loose our Focus” using the story of the three Hebrews boys in Daniel 3:16-18. His plan words and humorous anecdotes helped us assuage any uneasiness to his soul-searching message.
Bishop Chappelle opened each morning’s work with Conference in study as we perused the pages of Dr. James F. Miller’s book, “Go Build a Church! Spiritual Administration for Growth.” The information in the book was testimony of Dr. Miller’s journey to complete the mandate given him by Bishop J. Haskell Mayo “to go build a church.”
Reverend Diane L. Burl, candidate for Bishop in 2008 answered the question during the Thursday’s Hour of Power, “Where is the Glory?” showing that the glory of God is revealed through us and if we are not faithful in presenting God to the people, “God Will Liberate the Legacy of who He is.” Her message was taken from I Samuel 3:1-4, 19: 4:22.
The Arkansas Conference Sons of Allen under the leadership of the Conference Coordinator, Rev. Bill A. Bowers, and Conference President, Brother Cory Williams, assisted by the 12th Episcopal District Coordinator, Rev. Randolph Martin, lifted our spirits with songs and praise on Thursday night. Awards were presented to Rev. John Grissom, pastor of Allen Chapel, Sweet Home, Arkansas for his Community Involvement, Mr. John Lamb for Business and Luanzo Lung”aho, the youth award. Reginald Cleaver Jr., the newly elected Connectional YPD President was presented a plaque for achievement. His mother, Mrs. Vanessa Cleaver and brother, Mr. Timothy Cleaver received the award in his absence. Bishop and Mother Chappelle were presented with gifts and a plaque in recognition of their eight years of service in the 12th Episcopal District.
Reverend Nelson Spencer presented by Bishop Chappelle as one of the old time preachers and pastor of New Saint Paul in Warren, Arkansas brought the house to its feet with “The Lord Is” using the 23rd Psalm as his text during the hour of power on Friday. The South Conference, referred to as the Solid South filled the house and urged their colleague on as he brought us to the throne of grace. The Monticello District Choir set the pace for the spirited worship experience.
The Seven Annual Conference Lay Departments decided to emphasize education and the relationship that has developed with Shorter College. In the past, the Lay Department and Shorter College had individual nights, but a team approach immerged and a Lay-Education Night Banquet was born at each individual conference. Mr. Tedford Collins, a son of the Twelfth emceed the banquet in the Arkansas Conference with dignity. The Honorable Judge Wendell Griffin’s message “Re-education of a people once called Negro” recalled a period in time when the black family realized the importance of educating their children, and also of teaching them to respect their elders and authority. The Arkansas Lay President, Mrs. Helen Davis and Bishop Richard A. Chappelle, Sr., presented the 2007 Circle of Honor to inductees: Gladys Davis, Lillian Springer, Alphonzo Myles, Sr., Pamela Hudson, Thelma Gibson and a youth, Natalie Horton.
Bishop Chappelle presided over his last Ordination Service, wrought with emotion from extreme to extreme, from laughter to tears, from solemnity to dancing ordaining eight itinerant deacons: Marcia Burns, Barbara Butler, Ervin Finney, Trina Jones, Byron Miller, Michael Stewart, Renata Williams, and Betty Tolefree, one local deacon Wilma Walker, and two itinerant elders: Reverend Sandra Ransom Eldridge and Reverend Kingston Clayton Malone. The sermon: “ Challenge that Comes from Above” brought by the Reverend Dr. Ronald Braxton, pastor of the “Cathedral of African Methodism”, Metropolitan AME Church in Washing DC, told us emphatically God uses people and the challenge is to give up our own lives for others sometimes at great costs. The challenge is not public, but private. In all things depend on God, be content. God will provide whatever we need!
Mrs. Jeannie Gray, Arkansas Conference DMC Coordinator using the motto, “Daily Magnify Christ” gave tributes to the Allenites, Sub-Debutantes, Sub-Masters, and Debutantes. The young people recognized were: ALLENITES: Donald Blake Smith –Union, Bryce Brown - Ward Chapel, Darius D. Taylor - Allen Chapel - Sweet Home, Labrion Turrelle Jones – Union, Richard Wallis - Bethel – Little Rock, Elijah Askew - Bethel –Little Rock, Mallari Adina Miller - Ward Chapel, Makenzie Berry - Ward Chapel, Keiara Bates - Bethel – Little Rock, Mariah Vines - Lee Chapel, North Little Rock.
Sub-Masters and Sub-Debs: Antwann Taylor - Allen Chapel - Sweet Home, Jamalin M. Nash - Moody Chapel, Cherrell Johnson - Bethel – LR, Alexandria Parker - Moody Chapel, J'vonte Carr - Moody Chapel
Debutantes: Monika Lucas - Moody Chapel and Terrika Edwards - Moody Chapel. Mr. Reginald Cleaver, Jr., the connectional YPD President graced us with a song. Ms. Lyndajo Jones, Episcopal DMC Coordinator helped pass out the certificates.
The performance of the Mother Sunbeams, Allen Stars and the YPD’er were outstanding under the leadership of Ms. La Rhonda Collins, Arkansas Conference YPD Director, and Mr. Wesley Baker, the outgoing YPD President. The YPD’ers brought excitement into the house as they enacted a skit entitled, “Jesus, I’m Loving Him!” which told the story of the Crucifixion. The YPD paid tribute to Bishop and Mother Chappelle as they lit eight candles reminding them of the light they brought to the 12th District during their eight-year tenure.
The closing day services started with Church School at 9:00 A.M. lead by the Conference Church School Superintendent, Rev. Shirley Inkton Bowers and assisted by Mrs. Alytrius Bridgers, Superintendent of the Church School at Lee Chapel AME Church in North Little Rock, Arkansas. The Subject was: God Preserved a Remnant with lesson scripture taken from Genesis 43:1-45:15. The church with the largest enrollment since last year award went to Saint Paul AME Church in Morrilton, Arkansas where the Reverend Jeff Carr is pastor and Ms. Joyce Smith is the Superintendent.
Reverend Eugene Brannon, Presiding Elder of the Little Rock District presided at the closing service on November 18, 2007. Bishop Chappelle led us to the mountaintop as he asked the question, Lost Sheep, what’s got your attention? His subject: “Good News for the Lost” from Luke 15 and Matthew 18:11 made us realize we do have hope in a caring Christ!
Rev. Charles M. Cleaver, Presiding Elder of the North Little Rock/Fort Smith District was recognized for his many years of dedicated service to the AME Church in a Retirement Ceremony. Due to illness, Rev. Cleaver could not attend and his faithful wife, Mrs. Delilah Cleaver stood in his place. People from all over the church lead by Bishop Chappelle and Mother Chappelle lined up to congratulate Mrs. Cleaver with a hug and a monetary token. She has been by his side all the time!
Special acknowledge was given to the many friends from other district and conference that spent time with us during the week. The presence of Mr. Raymond Frazier, representative from Senator Blanch Lincoln’s Office and Mr. Herman Williams, representative from Governor Mike Beebe’s Office who presented Mother Chappelle with a gorgeous fall arrangement of flowers in a vase was acknowledged. We were please to have Rev. Dr. Ronald Braxton from Metropolitan AME Church, Washington DC, Rev. Wesley Reid from Lee Memorial, Cleveland Ohio, and Rev. Dr. Jeffery Leath, Mother Bethel AME Church in Philadelphia, PA. All are candidates for Episcopal Service. Special recognition goes to our visiting presiding elders from our sister conferences, Clarence V. Boyd, Thomas G. Allen, James R. Hooper, Napoleon Davis, Jr., Dennis Hampton and Samuel Arnold. Others in attendance were Dr. Anna B. Graham, Sis Martha Simpson, Rev. Larry Banks, and Rev. James Giles. Many others from throughout the 12th came during various times and their presence was acknowledged.
The Conference Choir under the direction of the Arkansas Conference Music Director, Brother La Baron Mizer brought exceptional music to the worship experience. His talent is recognized by other denominations. He travels with the Spirit!
Rev. Randolph and Mrs. Charolett Martin were applauded along with the Union AME Church Family for the manner in which they attended to every delegate’s needs during the conference and Presiding Elder and Mrs. Anita Brannon for supplying a whole pig for lunch at the opening day; yes, a whole pig with an apple in his mouth!
The 139th Session of the Mother Conference” the Arkansas Annual Conference of the 12th Episcopal District closed and we considered it a high honor to be the last conference presided over by Bishop Richard Allen Chappelle, Sr. and Mother Barbara Jeanne Chappelle in their career. To quote Reverend Diane Burl, “the Lightening Bolt of African Methodism has been here in this place! We realize that a more excellent way involves accountability from all departments on all levels of the church. There is no replacement for order and organization.”
We would like to salute the Dynamic Duo, Bishop and Mother Chappelle for a job well done!
Submitted by Mrs. Ann Gilkey, Arkansas Conference Public Relations Director
6. THE TWELFTH EPISCOPAL DISTRICT ARKANSAS ANNUAL CONFERENCE WOMEN’S MISSIONARY SOCIETY:
*Sister Ann Gilkey
The Arkansas Annual Conference Women’s Missionary Society convened at Union African Methodist Episcopal Church in Little Rock, Arkansas where the Rev. Randolph W. Martin, Sr. was the host pastor on November13, 2007.
Our Episcopal Leader, Bishop Richard Allen Chappelle, Sr., and Mother Barbara Jeanne Chappelle, now called the Dynamic Duo, announced at the beginning of the conference, you are the last of the seven. We now call ourselves the Mother Conference, the Last of the Seven!
The Arkansas Annual Conference Women’s Missionary Society (WMS) began business under the efficient leadership of the Conference President, Ms. Phyllis Johnson and culminated with the election of officers for the 2007-2008-conference year. New officers elected are President; Ms. Phyllis Johnson, 1st Vice President - Mrs. Jerralyn Smith, 2nd Vice President- Mrs. Johnnie Branch, 3rd Vice President-Ms. Keisha Stewart, Recording Secretary- Mrs. Tina Norwood, Assistant Recording Secretary-Ms. Adrian Johnson, Corresponding Secretary - Mrs. Carolyn Davie, Treasurer - Mrs. Thelmon Stuckey, Parliamentarian-Dr. Edith Altheimer, Historiographer Statistician - Mrs. Valerie Wofford, Y.P.D. Director-Ms. La Rhonda Collins, Worship Leader-Ms. Tina Grissom, P.M.E. Director - Mrs. Peggy Pilgrim, Y.W.I. Coordinator-Ms. Brandi Smith. The Third Vice President, Ms. Keisha Stewart, presented a Memorial Service in PowerPoint. All members watched a PowerPoint Presentation developed by Mrs. Ann Gilkey as Mrs. Lovie Aaron spoke about the Quadrennial Convention. The meeting concluded with the honoring of Life Members by the Young Women’s Initiative, (YWI) during their annual luncheon held at the Hilton Hotel in Little Rock, Arkansas. Gifts were presented to everyone in attendance and special gifts were given to the Life Members, Sisters Rosie Banks (100 yrs old-Home). Mabel Watkins, Flossie Green, Ozie Payne (Over 100 years old) Lillian Springer, Betty Jackson, Edith Altheimer, Barbara Johnson, Delilah Cleaver, Margaret Jones, Mercille Springer, Betty Jackson, Delilah Cleaver, and Phyllis Lamb. Everyone was pleased to welcome a new Life Member, Sister Lovie Aaron, a member of Holly Grove AME Church in North Little Rock, Arkansas.
The Arkansas Conference WMS Night in White defined the spirit and set the pace for the Annual Conference opening day as Sister Jerralyn Smith, 1st Vice President presided with grace and spirit. Dr. Barbara Jeanne Chappelle capped the new members, Sisters Meredith Rogers, Monica Key, Tyce Scroggins, Felecia Turner and Desiree Thomas. The WMS ladies showed how the Commissions of the Society should work through a skit entitled, “Working for Christ through the Commissions.” The skit was written and directed by the 1st Vice President- Sister Jerralyn Smith. The Millennium Dancers performed a liturgical interpretation of “He Covered Me.” Our own Mother Charolett Martin, 12th Episcopal President was one of the dancers. The evening ended with, “A Great Look Back” as the Society gave tribute to Mother Chappelle’s eight years journey in the Twelfth District. Her favorite songs were sung and a bouquet of beautiful red roses was presented.
Let it be known everywhere, the Arkansas Conference WMS counted it a high honor to be the last conference presided over by Mother Barbara Jeanne Chappelle in her stellar career.
Hat’s off to our Mother, she taught us a more Excellent Way!
*Sister Ann Gilkey is the Arkansas Annual Conference Public Relations Director-Photographer
7. NEWLY APPOINTED CHIEF OF POLICE A MEMBER AND OFFICER AT ST. MARK AME CHURCH, ORLANDO:
The new Police Chief of Orlando, Florida is Val Demings, a member and officer at St Mark AME Church, Orlando, Florida, where the Rev Terrence Gray is the pastor. She was appointed by Mayor Buddy Dyer.
As the Police Chief, she will oversee the day-to-day operations of the department and serve as chief counsel to the City in matters of public safety. Mayor Buddy Dyer said, “I am confident in Chief Demings’ ability to lead the Orlando Police Department, effectively combating the crime of today and ensuring the safety of our community tomorrow.”
Mayer Dyer went on to say that Police Chief Demings has a proven track record in every facet and function of law enforcement operations including: uniform patrol, criminal investigations, special operations, internal investigations, airport services, crime prevention, tactical patrol operations, neighborhood patrol operations and crisis negotiation. He went on to say that she also brings an extensive background with training from the FBI National Academy and the Southern Police Institute Command Officer’s Development Course, and numerous leadership roles with community service organizations.
Most recently, Demings was responsible for “Operation Delta,” a multi-phased operation targeting street-level drug operations, resulting in the arrests of hundreds of individuals.
Chief Demings’ husband, Jerry, was the Chief of Police prior to the retiring Chief McCoy. Jerry is now a candidate for sheriff of Orange County.
Demings’ appointment as Police Chief was approved by the Orlando City Council on December 3, 2007.
We, the members of the African Methodist Episcopal Church congratulate Chief Demings in her new role as Chief of Police for Orlando, Florida.
8. PEACE IN THE MIST OF A STORM:
By: Delanda S. Johnson
As we enter into the holiday season, have you ever wondered how Joseph and Mary may have felt the night of Jesus’ birth? How, at the time of Jesus’ birth there was no room for them anywhere in the city of Bethlehem and that the King wanted to kill all of the baby boys.
However, the parents of Jesus found, “Peace in the Mist of a Storm.”
On Saturday, December 1st; members of the Henderson County Interdenominational Ministers Alliance (IMA) brought a Christmas message to approximately 400 or more inmates at the Coffield Unit in Tenn. Colony, Texas.
Bishop Annell Castille Haney, Church of Living God/Malakoff, Evangelist Alma Berry, Johnson Chapel AME Church/Malakoff); and Elder Ivory J. Givens, Church of Living God/Seagoville, carried a word of hope, love, forgiveness, and faith.
Evangelist Berry of Johnson Chapel asked, “Have you ever had a storm in your life? For you see, if you have not, then just wait; a storm will come, but know that there is “Peace in the mist of a Storm.”
Berry defined the word “stumble” as, “to get in the way, to sin or error/do wrong, to keep from getting closer to God.”
“No matter what the situation may be, know that God is near you, when you are in your storm.
“Remember Daniel in the Lions’ Den. He was rescued in the midst of his storm,” said Berry. Berry went on to say, “If you find yourself in a situation where you feel that you have no way out, know that God will make a way out of no way and that there is peace in the midst of a storm.”
Bishop Haney stated, “God is cool when needed to make cool and hot when needed to make hot. God is your “Peace in the midst of a storm.” He said, “When Satan is on your trail, just say ‘Peace Be Still.’ Give God all praise, honor, and glory, no matter how you are feeling or how others may make you feel. Call on the name of Jesus in your midst of your storm,” said Haney.
“For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” Jesus came into a world of deceit, mistrust, envy, lust, but there is “Peace in the midst of a storm,” said Haney.
Haney wanted the inmates to know that Jesus shred His blood for them so they could have everlasting life. God’s mercy and grace is all that is need. Jesus Christ is your “Peace in the midst of a storm.”
Elder Givens pointed to a man by the biblical patriarch, Joseph who the Bible says was a dreamer. The dreamer was in the mist of a storm from his own family; his brothers. “If you look at Joseph, he was a man who was sold into slavery by one of his brothers, while his other brothers wanted him dead. Joseph placed his trust and faith in God; that was Joseph’s “peace in the midst of his storm,” said Givens.
Givens went on to say that one may find him or herself in a place or situation where they know that they should not be, but there is, “peace in the midst of the Storm.”
“Sometimes you must let go and let God handle your problems and not try to handle it yourself. You must not try to fix the problem, but know there is, “peace in the midst of a Storm,” said Givens.
Givens stated that we often come to Jesus when we are filthy rags, but our sins can be washed away through the blood of JESUS. Jesus died to set us free because He is our “Peace in the midst of a storm.”
9. SOUTH PHILADELPHIA DISTRICT CONFERENCE EXCEEDS EXPECTATIONS:
By Angelena Spears
South Philadelphia District Reporter
Persons who came to the South Philadelphia District Conference on October 5, expecting a blessing did not leave disappointed. Instead, the day-long event, held at St. John AME Church, Paschall, in Philadelphia, was packed with powerful preaching, informative workshops, uplifting music and good food.
This was the fourth district conference put together by the district’s Presiding Elder Charles H. Lett, Sr. And like the previous conferences, this one surpassed everyone’s expectations.
The day began with a continental breakfast and devotions. After the roll call of organizations, component reports were given by the various organizations, including the Lay Organization, Missionary Society, Church School, Young People’s Department, Christian Education and the Economic Development Task Force.
Sister Jean Adams, superintendent of the district’s Church Schools announced that the church school had given over $10,000 in scholarships over the last 19 years to 72recipients.
The delegate reports gave evidence that the 17 churches that make up the district are on the move. Hickman Temple AME, in Philadelphia, the lead church in the district, which is served by the Rev. Jocelyn Hart, reported that 12 new members had joined the church in the last quarter and that the church reduced its debt by $250,000.
The delegate for Campbell AME, Media, PA, proudly announced that their church will celebrate its 180th anniversary this year, and that according to records they are the oldest church of any denomination in Delaware County. The Rev. Lanxton Washington is their pastor.
Mount Zion AME, Norristown, where the Rev. Kanice Johns is the pastor, reported that their Vacation Bible School had attracted over 60 people.
Bethel AME, in West Chester, served by the Rev. Donald Bellamy, announced that they have a very active prison ministry that is dedicated to letting prisoners know their church is anxious to receive them when they are released.
“The Hour of Power” service lived up to its name when the Rev. Dr. DeLishia Boykin Wilson, the new pastor for Bethel AME, Reading, delivered a dynamic sermon based on her theme, which was “Armed and Dangerous.” She preached from St. John 12: 10–11, and literally had preachers and lay persons on their feet from the powerful delivery.
Rev. Wilson said as Christians, we need to “arm” ourselves with the Shield of Faith and the Helmet of Salvation, and therefore, when the adversary tries to attack us – instead of running away or even flinching, we need to take on the persona of Clint Eastwood in Blazing Glory, and say “Go Ahead. Make My Day.”
After a delicious lunch served by the host church, two workshops were presented.
The first workshop was titled “From Membership to Discipleship” and was presented with fervor by the Rev. Arnold Evans form Campbell AME Church, Philadelphia.
The second workshop was titled “Financing Church Construction Projects” and was presented by the Rev. Sidney Williams of Union Bethel AME Church, Brandywine, MD. Rev. Williams is a graduate of the University of Pennsylvania’s Wharton Business School. He is a key partner in an organization called EKOS Ministries, Inc., which works with churches to develop and acquire financing for affordable housing.
The spiritual momentum continued throughout the day, all the way through the closing service, for which the Rev. Maurice Hughes, of New Bethel Germantown, was the preacher.
At the end of the evening, Elder Lett thanked the host pastor, the Rev. Donald Burems, for their church’s wonderful hospitality. He also thanked New Bethel’s choir along with the specially formed South Philadelphia District Choir (under the leadership of 14-year-old Earl Knight) for the exceptional musical talent they had rendered as a blessing to the services.
10. A MESSAGE TO THE HOLY MEMBERS OF THE A. M. E. MINISTERIAL ALLIANCE OF THE SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA CONFERENCE:
And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we beheld His glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth. (John 1:14 NKJV)
Good Day. We have had a very invigorating Summer and Fall. We give praise to Bishop John & Rev. Dr. Cee, for their anointed leadership that has taken us all the way to India!!!!!!! We have taken and founded African Methodism in India, the home of Bishop William Paul Quinn, who came to America from Calcutta!!!!!
As you know, our schedule and tenure of activity run the first 4 - 5 months of the year. So before us are this years’ Christmas Celebration, Installation Service, Founder’s Day, Ash Wednesday Celebration, The Caravan, and The Good Friday Worship Event. As you know we must elect officers, keep abreast of all of our Presiding Elders Districts, Conference, and Episcopal District events so that maximum support is given as we head toward the General Conference. We have some very great community concerns that need our continual support and attention, along with the reality that there are matters that shall arise for our concern, that do you yet appear.
I look deeply forward to your presence that we have a very progressive meeting in Jesus name!!!!!!!
Grace and Power;
Leslie R. White
President
AME Ministerial Alliance of the Southern California Conference
11. WOMEN’S DAY 2007, “CHOSEN WOMEN OF GOD, STRETCHED BUT NOT BROKEN”:
The theme: “Chosen Women of God, Stretched but Not Broken,” 1 Corinthians 15:58 resonated throughout the Women’s Day Season, liberating and encouraging those who participated at each event.
Pre-Women’s Day activities included a Prayer Breakfast and Pampering for the Mind, Body and Spirit Session. Minister Laquita Landy of Agape Faith Kingdom Ministries was the guest preacher. Immediately following the message and breakfast, the women enjoyed and experience stations that included prayer, chair massage, stress management techniques and facials.
This magnificent event was followed by a Mid-Week Worship Service. The guest preacher was co-pastor Maybelline Denwiddie of New Creation Worship Centre. She preached with passion and power as she encouraged all to continue on despite the struggles.
Then, on October 28, 2007 the women of St. Paul celebrated their Annual Women’s Day. The day was bright and sunny, mirroring the colors of the day, creamery orange. The atmosphere was spiritually saturated with the Holy Spirit to the delight of a full house. There were sure signs that this day would go forward as one of complete liberation. We were blessed and encouraged by the anointed preaching of the Candidate for Episcopal honors, The Rev. Dr. Ann Lightner-Fuller, pastor of Mt. Calvary AME Church Towson, Maryland. Her sermon topic was “Desperate Women, Pray Desperate Prayers.” She challenged every believer present to live by the word, and to trust God even when the outcome is not certain. The Exalted Praise Dancers ministered to our spirits as well.
The Women’s Day Choir was awesome, led by the directress Sis. Shirley Emery and accompanied by lead musician Dennis Emery. There were many highlights to the service. Just to name a few, soloists Sister Lynette Vassell, who sang to the Yolanda Adams tune, “Yet, Still I Rise,” A surprise lead singer was the eleven year old anointed Michalae Hayward who singed with pure harmony. The morning service was taped and scheduled to be aired on Fresh Television in Bermuda.
The afternoon service was also filled to capacity as the Rev. Dr. Fuller preached with passion and power. Her sermon title was, “I’ve Got Jars.” We we’re blessed to have the Seventh Day Adventist Choir minister to us in song and spirit. The anointed power of God was truly in the sanctuary! We thank our pastor Rev. Lanel D. Guyton and Lady Tanzania Guyton, and; our Women’s Day Chair, Sister Nadine Lapsley-Dyer; Co-Chair, Sister Eunice Jones, and those who made the St. Paul Women’s Day, a day to remember.
12. ST. PAUL HAMILTON BERMUDA HOSTS FIRST ANNUAL COMMUNITY DAY AND BLOCK PARTY:
On November 18, 2007 the historic St. Paul Church affectionately known as the “Cathedral” of African Methodism in Bermuda celebrated their first Annual Community Day and Block Party.
This day was special in that the surrounding communities were given an open invitation to attend worship service with the membership of St. Paul. Shirts commemorating the day were worn in place of the usual Sunday dress. The shirts read, “St. Paul AME Church Community Day, The Year of the Family.”
The Young People’s Division, led by the president Nicolas Parris was in charge of the highly spirited service. Our pastor the Rev. Lanel D. Guyton preached from the subject, “Are You Needy Today,” part two from the series, The Four Seasons. This was an emotional charge sermon for a time such as this.
Many were non-members were in attendance and the church was filled to capacity to the delight of God. Television personality from PBS, Mr. Burt Wolfe was in attendance along with his family and film crew. After a highly spirited service a crowd of people gathered outside for food, fun, fellowship, arts, crafts, music and dance. The day was a huge success as more persons from the community begin to flock to our event. At the end of the day, the Bermuda Gombey’s danced to the rhythmic drum beat to the delight of the crowd.
Surely, this was the beginning of an event that will have a future impact on the surrounding communities for years to come.
13. PRESIDING ELDER ERIC L. BROWN GATHERED THE CLERGY AND LAITY TOGETHER TO REVEAL DISTRICT PLAN:
The Rev. Dr. Eric l. Brown, presiding elder of the Allegheny Scranton District, gathered the clergy and laity together to reveal his plan for the “Awesome” Allegheny Scranton District on Saturday, November 11, 2007 at Payne Chapel African Methodist Episcopal Church, Duquesne, Pennsylvania. The Reverend Samuel Chambers is the pastor of Payne Chapel.
A dynamic sermon delivered by the Reverend Lois Thomas, pastor of Calvary African Methodist Church, Braddock, Pennsylvania, set the tone for the planning meeting. Her text was taken from Psalm 25:1-5 and her theme was, “God the Source of our Strength.” She explained that in the time of trouble we have someone to turn to; any time and any where. She used the account of Samson in Judges 13 is an example and went on to say that his strength was from God and was not of his own. She went on to say that sometimes we have to go through things to realize that God is our strength. Samson thought his strength was in his hair but after he lost his hair, he realized that God was his strength; he was humbled, asked for forgiveness and allowed God to be his strength.
Presiding Elder Brown revealed the theme for this conference year which is, “Servants: Called to Make a Difference,” taken from I Peter 4:10-11.
Two new proposals have been implemented by Presiding Elder Brown. The first is “Adopt a Church.” The guidelines to this include:
a. Develop prayer partners between the two congregations, using either email or a telephone tree. This should be done in conjunction with the pastors or a prayer coordinator appointed by the pastor.
b. The adopting church is asked to share two (2) offerings with the adoptee congregation during the conference year.
c. The adopting church is asked to share at least one worship experience or event with the adoptee church during the conference year.
The following churches adopted churches:
Adopting Church/Adoptee Church:
St. James, Pittsburgh / St. Paul, Bellefonte
St. James, Erie / Bethel, Meadville
Greater Allen, Pittsburg / New Life, Pittsburgh
Payne Chapel, Duquesne / Nesmith, West Mifflin
First Church, Clairton / Bethel, Mt. Union
Wayman Chapel, New Brighton / Allen Chapel, Clearfield
Bethel, Tarentum / Bethel, Williamsport
St. John, Bridgewater / Calvary, Braddock
The second proposal is to continue with the 7-Point Plan for Growth. The seven points are as follows:
a. Evangelism – It shall be our goal to win 500 new souls for the Kingdom of This Conference year.
b. Education – We will expose the constituents of the Allegheny Scranton District to special training with an emphasis on Administration.
c. Evaluation – We will give serious attention and dialogue to the way we do business to discover if we can be more effective in Kingdom Building.
d. Expansion-We will continue to explore the possibility of beginning a new work in growing areas of our District with particular emphasis to the Cranberry/Mars area.
e. Emphasis on Our Youth-We will make our youth a priority when planning all events and activities.
f. Empowerment-We will empower individuals and churches to live out their faith by giving them the tools they need to become relevant disciples.
g. Economic Development-We will explore ways that we can collectively benefit from our resources (i.e., banking, savings, and home ownership).
The “Awesome” Allegheny Scranton is on the move and looking forward to a great 2007-2008 Conference year!
submitted by Sister Shelly Brown, Allegheny Scranton District Secretary
14. THE FEDERAL BUREAU OF PRISONS TO HIRE PROTESTANT SPIRITUAL LEADER FOR THE FEDERAL CORRECTIONAL COMPLEX, PETERSBURG LOCATED IN HOPEWELL, VIRGINIA:
The Bureau of Prisons of the U.S. Dept. of Justice has put out a pre-solicitation notice for the provision of Protestant Spiritual Leader services for the Federal Corrections Complex-Petersburg, located in Hopewell, Virginia.
The actual solicitation will be made available on or about December 3, 2007, and the anticipated response deadline for the solicitation is January 4, 2008. The contract period shall consist of a base period of one year with four 1-year option periods for renewal at the discretion of the Government. It is estimated that 936 one-hour sessions will be provided per year.
Faith-based and community organizations can submit offers/bids/quotations equally with other organizations for contracts for which they are eligible. For further information, please go to: http://www.fbo.gov/spg/DOJ/BPR/70032/RFQ%2D11411%2D0003%2D8/listing.html or contact: Terri Tharp, Contract Specialist, Phone (972) 352-4558, Fax (972) 352-4545, Email ttharp@bop.gov.
Submitted by Stephanie and Eric Stradford
Youth Achievers USA Institute
www.YouthUSA.org
15. THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES OF TURNER THEOLOGICAL SEMINARY (TTS) SEEKS A CANDIDATE FOR THE POSITION OF PRESIDENT/ DEAN. DEADLINE FOR APPLICANTS’ SUBMISSION: JANUARY 15, 2008:
Position: President/Dean
Salary: Unspecified
Institution: Turner Theological Seminary
Location: Atlanta, Georgia
Date Posted: 9/15/2007
Turner Theological Seminary
President/Dean
The Board of Trustees of Turner Theological Seminary (TTS) seeks a candidate for the position of President/ Dean. The position is to be filled on or before the Academic school year 2008-2009.
Candidates for the position should possess the following minimum qualifications:
1. An earned Master of Divinity Degree from a seminary accredited by ATS. Post Graduate Degree desired.
2. An Itinerant Elder of at least 4 years in the African Methodist Episcopal Church.
3. Pastoral and/or Educational experience required
Interested Applicants should send a cover letter, short bio, and resume or vitae.
Applications will be treated with the utmost confidentiality. Applicants can submit information by mail or online. Deadline to submit materials are January 15, 2008.
All materials should be sent to:
The Rev. Gregory Eason
Chair, Presidential Search Committee
204 Auburn Avenue
Atlanta, Georgia 30303
Or
[TurnerPresident@aol.com]
17. PROFESSIONAL POSTION OPENINGS AT THE NEW BRUNSWICK THEOLOGICAL SEMINARY:
Position in New Testament
NEW BRUNSWICK THEOLOGICAL SEMINARY, a teaching institution of the Reformed Church in America called to serve the whole church, seeks to fill a full-time position in New Testament.
The Seminary offers an inclusive and diverse community with an explicit anti-racist commitment and welcomes individuals from wide ecumenical backgrounds. Ph.D. required.
We seek someone with excellent teaching skills who thrives in an interdenominational and racially diverse community of scholars and students with a commitment to public theology. Experience in an urban community preferred. For qualifications and requirements, please refer to the Seminary’s website for a description of the position and details regarding application. This position is a three-year non-tenure track appointment, with possibility of renewal.
Deadline for submission of applications: January 1, 2008. Send letter of application and resume with contact information for three references to Dean Virginia Wiles, New Brunswick Theological Seminary, 17 Seminary Place, New Brunswick, NJ 08901 (vwiles@nbts.edu). The Seminary is an Equal Opportunity Employer and encourages women and persons of color to apply.
Faculty Position in Supervised Ministry
NEW BRUNSWICK THEOLOGICAL SEMINARY, a teaching institution of the Reformed Church in America called to serve the whole church, seeks to fill a full-time tenure-track faculty position in Supervised Ministry and Ministry Studies.
The Seminary offers an inclusive and diverse community with an explicit anti-racist commitment and welcomes individuals from wide ecumenical backgrounds. Ph.D. required.
We seek someone with excellent teaching skills who thrives in an interdenominational and racially diverse community of scholars and students with a commitment to public theology. Experience in an urban community preferred. An advanced degree in practical theology or ministry studies (D.Min., Ph.D. or equivalent) is required. The ideal candidate will have at least ten years of parish ministry experience and sustained cross-cultural and ecumenical experience and C.P.E. or some other form of preparation for and experience of the supervision of persons in ministry. Please refer to the Seminary’s website for a description of the position.
Deadline for submission of applications: January 15, 2008. Send letter of application and resume with contact information for three references to Dean Virginia Wiles, New Brunswick Theological Seminary, 17 Seminary Place, New Brunswick, NJ 08901 (vwiles@nbts.edu ). The Seminary is an Equal Opportunity Employer and encourages women and persons of color to apply.
Submitted by the Rev. Jerome Stembridge, pastor, Mt. Zion AME Church, Princeton, New Jersey
18. ANCIENT CONFLICTS, MODERN CONTROVERSY – NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC CHANNEL OFFERS NEW THEORIES AND ACCOUNTS OF JESUS’ BIRTHPLACE, ADOLESCENCE AND FAMILY TOMB:
Three-Night Event Delves Into Questions: What Was Jesus’ Teenage Life Like? Are Recently Discovered Artifacts Authentic? And Why Are Christians Fleeing Bethlehem?
(WASHINGTON, D.C. – December 3, 2007) This December, millions of people around the world will celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, even as questions and controversies persist regarding his life, times and context. While the New Testament presents one record of his birth and the sequence of events in his life, there are gaps in the timeline that remain a mystery. Further mystery — and contention — surround Jesus’ birthplace and any possible physical proof of his life and death.
For three nights, National Geographic Channel (NGC) journeys into the crux of the Christian religion to explore centuries-old controversy, new theories, polarizing discoveries and current events in The Missing Years of Jesus, premiering Monday, December 17, at 9 p.m. ET/PT; Decoding Bible Relics, premiering Tuesday, December 18, at 9 p.m. ET/PT; and Explorer: Last Christians of Bethlehem, premiering Wednesday, December 19, at 9 p.m. ET/PT.
These three specials ask engaging questions: What were Jesus Christ’s teenage years like? What cultural and political issues may have influenced him? Are recently discovered finds in the Holy Land authentic artifacts or sophisticated fakes? And what does the future hold for the last remaining Christians of Bethlehem and the sacred sites of this richly historic city? Each show draws from a wide variety of sources, including interviews with biblical scholars, religious leaders, archaeologists, authors and those at the center of a firestorm.
Premieres include:
"The Missing Years of Jesus"
Monday, December 17, at 9 p.m. ET/PT (World Premiere)
Between the ages of 12 and 30, the life of Jesus Christ is nearly unaccounted for — almost two decades missing from the man at the core of the Christian religion. Today, scholars are beginning to form a clearer picture of the missing years by examining stories in the New Testament gospels and reconciling this record with new archeological discoveries. A narrative rich in details and subtle clues begins to emerge. What was his family life like? Was he educated or bilingual? Where might he have worked? And what cultural and political issues may have influenced him? Go back to Nazareth in 6 A.D. to learn more about the blue-collar village where he lived, its oppressed inhabitants and abusive Roman rulers to see how it may have influenced Jesus’ rebellious personality and radical beliefs.
"Decoding Bible Relics"
Tuesday, December 18, at 9 p.m. ET/PT
In recent years, extraordinary finds in the Holy Land have appeared to support the legendary Temple of Solomon and burial of Jesus. But can we distinguish authentic artifact from sophisticated fake, fact from fiction? See how a tiny four-centimeter-long object, called the ivory pomegranate and thought to be the ornamental tip of a priest’s ceremonial staff, becomes a revolutionary discovery — the first physical evidence that King Solomon’s temple existed. But is the engraved Aramaic text genuine? And who is the owner and where did it come from? Then, investigate a shiny black stone with ancient writing known as the Jehoash Tablet that seems to confirm events in the New Testament. Is it a priceless artifact or a hoax? And finally, go to the tomb some believe belonged to Jesus’ family, which received widespread publicity and skepticism.
"Explorer: Last Christians of Bethlehem"
Wednesday, December 19, at 9 p.m. ET/PT (World Premiere)
The Church of the Nativity in the heart of Bethlehem marks one of Christianity's most sacred sites: the birthplace of Christ. For centuries, it was one of the most fought-over holy places, seized and defended by a succession of armies — including Muslim and Crusader forces. Explorer takes us inside Bethlehem, the famous epicenter of Christendom, to show us that the city is still a place of passions interrupted. Follow the event that polarized the world, when armed Muslim extremists sought refuge in the Church of the Nativity in 2002 and instigated a deadly standoff between Palestinian gunmen and Israeli soldiers. Years later, in the wake of the siege, tourists and worshippers to the church are few, and Christian residents are caught in the crosshairs of a growing Islamic fundamentalism and the entrenched Israeli fortress that surrounds it. Hear the fervid, revealing stories from those at the center of a changing, divided city.
19. CLERGY FAMILY CONGRATULATORY NOTICE:
- Congratulations and best wishes to the proud and happy parents, Mrs. Constance Grady Woodberry and Kenneth Woodberry, Esq.; sister, Little Miss Kendall Bynum Woodberry; grandparents, Bishop and Mrs. Z. L. Grady (Ret); aunt, Mrs. Felita Grady Davis and uncle, Rev. Carey Andrew Grady.
Congratulatory Expressions may be sent to:
Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth Woodberry & Kendall
5000 S. Cornell Ave., Unit 3-B
Chicago, IL 60615
Email: cluvira@yahoo.com
- Dr. and Mrs. (Clara) Johnny Barbour, Jr., Secretary-Treasurer Sunday School Union, African Methodist Episcopal Church celebrated their 45th wedding anniversary on Saturday, November 24, 2007.
Congratulatory Expressions may be sent to:
500 8th Ave. South
Suite 200
Nashville, TN 37203
Or to:
185 Bristol Boulevard
Jackson, MS 39204
20. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
We regret to inform you of the passing of Cora Mae Jones. Mrs. Jones was the sister of Rev. Gena Johnson, an associate minister at Allen AME Church in Newark, New Jersey. The following information has been provided regarding funeral arrangements.
The funeral has been held
Expressions of Sympathy may be sent to:
Rev. Gena M. Johnson
419 Sanford Ave., Apt. 303B
Newark, NJ 07103
21. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
We wish to inform you that the Rev. Wilhelmenia Coleman, a local elder, member of the Pittsburgh Annual Conference and the Supply Pastor for several years at Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania was summoned to claim her eternal reward suddenly on Wednesday, November 28, 2007 at Moses Taylor Medical Center in Scranton, PA.
Following is the information concerning the Homegoing Celebration for Rev. Wilhelmenia Coleman:
There will be no visitation.
The celebration of life service will be held on Wednesday, December 5, 2007 at 11:00 a.m. at:
Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church
714 N. Washington Street
Scranton, PA 18509
Telephone: 570/342-1079
The Rev. Kenneth Burnett, pastor and the Rev. Dr. Eric L. Brown, Presiding Elder of the Allegheny Scranton District, Eulogist.
Condolences and Messages of sympathy can be sent to Rev. Coleman's daughter:
Ms. Clanetta Lane
204 Meridian Court
Scranton, PA 18504
Please keep the Coleman Family and Bethel, Wilkes-Barre in prayer.
Sincerely,
Dr. Eric L. Brown,
Presiding Elder, Allegheny Scranton District
22. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
We regret to inform you of the passing of Lintena M. Eddy. Sister Eddy was the sister of Rev. Herbert L. Eddy, Presiding Elder of the Boston-Hartford District, New England Conference. The following information has been provided regarding funeral arrangements.
Viewing and Funeral - Wednesday, December 5, 2007
Viewing - 10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.
Funeral - 11:00 a.m.
Bethel A.M.E. Church
819 Woodrow Street
Columbia, S.C. 29205
Phone: 803-779-0138
Fax: 803-779-7243
Officiant: The Rev. Ronnie Brailsford, pastor
Expressions of Sympathy may be sent to:
Rev. Herbert L. Eddy, Presiding Elder
1587 Bay Street
Springfield, MA 01109
Fax: 413-782-7717
Or
Mrs. Valdina Hall
113 Millwood Drive
Eastover, SC 29044
Please remember the family of Sister Lintena M. Eddy in your prayers.
23. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
Sharing with regret that Deputy Jonathan D. Wallace, 23, the son of the Rev. Patricia Wallace, pastor and founder of Harvest AME Church, Pahokee, Florida passed away in the line of duty on Wednesday, November 28, 2007. Jonathan Wallace was one of two deputies to lose their lives in the tragedy. Deputy Jonathan Wallace was engaged to be married. Deputy Wallace’s friend, Deputy Manuel, who was to be his best man, also lost his life.
Deputy Wallace was living a childhood dream of being in law enforcement. He was a very active young man both in his Church as well as his community. Please keep the Wallace Family and the Harvest Church Family in your prayers.
The Wallace Family will receive Family and Friends
Tuesday, December 4, 2007
Pahokee High School
900 Larrimore Rd
Pahokee, Florida
6-8:00 PM
Funeral Services
Wednesday, December 5, 2007
10:00 AM
The Sound Advice Amphi Theater at the
South Florida Fairgrounds
Southern Blvd, (West of I-95 East of State Rd 70)
West Palm Beach, Florida
Services for Deputy Jonathan D. Wallace are Entrusted to:
Dorsey Earl Smith Memory Gardens Funeral Home
3041 Kirk Road,
Lake Worth, Florida
(561) 964-3772
To express condolences (Guest Book) visit:
www.PalmBeachPost.com/obituaries
Or
Reverend Patricia Wallace and Brother Frank Wallace (Parents)
145 Apple Ave
Pahokee, Florida 33476
561-924-7030
Submitted by:
Marva R. Campbell,
South Conference MSA President
Eleventh Episcopal District
24. 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
25. CONDOLENCES TO THE BEREAVED FROM THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER:
The Chair of the Commission on Publications, the Right Reverend Gregory G. M. Ingram; the Publisher, the Reverend Dr. Johnny Barbour and the Editor of The Christian Recorder, the Reverend Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III offer our condolences and prayers to those who have lost loved ones. We pray that the peace of Christ will be with you during this time of your bereavement.
The Reverend Dr. Johnny Barbour, Jr., Publisher
The Reverend Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III, Editor
1. EDITORIAL - BISHOP VASHTI MURPHY MCKENZIE TOOK ON WORLD AIDS DAY HEAD-ON AND ALL OF US IN THE AME CHURCH NEED TO BE ENGAGED HEAD-ON:
Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III
The Thirteenth Episcopal District Planning meeting was held at the same time as World AIDS Day, which was observed on December 1, 2007; and Bishop McKenzie, in addition to doing all of the things that needed to be done at an episcopal district planning meeting, focused upon the important issue of HIV/AIDS, which is devastating the black community; and she did it in a creative way.
But first, she scheduled great preachers for the meeting; the Right Reverend Richard Allen Chappelle, presiding prelate of the 12th Episcopal District and the Right Reverend Samuel Green, presiding prelate of the 15th Episcopal District.
Bishop Chappelle preached about dreams and what can happen to dreamers, even today. When dreamers share their dreams, they take risks and sometimes the price they pay is high. It was as if he was speaking not only to the congregation, but he seemed to be speaking to the candidates for episcopal service who attended the planning meeting in great numbers.
The Right Reverend Samuel Green was the “Hour of Power” preacher and did he speak with power! Bishop Green spoke form Psalm 42:1ff and used as his subject, “How to Handle Depression.” He explained that depression is a mental state that knocks on everybody’s door. He explained that church folks can handle depression by their desire to, seek the LORD, seek the Word of God, acknowledge our pain, remember God’s blessings; and to learn how to praise and trust God in all seasons. The preacher’s words, which were from God, were the right words for the right time.
The various component committees and workgroups met and completed their business. It was an efficient planning meeting.
The creativity, the challenge, and the “meat” of the planning meeting began on Friday evening with the one woman-performance of “Sometimes I Cry” by Sheryl Lee Ralph. What a performance about the lives, loves, and losses of women affected by AIDS/HIV. Ralph says, “These women’s voices have been silent for too long in the struggle against HIV/AIDS and must be heard. Their health and well-being matters too.” Sheryl Lee Ralph is a talented actress and knows how to connect with the audience. After her performance, she allowed the audience to ask questions, which she addressed in a professional manner. She fielded questions from young and old alike and finally, because of time, the questions had to be stopped. The energy was high and it was a great evening.
The sold-out show was held at the Tennessee Performing Arts Center and a reception was held for invited guests after the performance in the Museum of the Tennessee Performing Arts Center.
But that wasn’t all, the closing session of the planning meeting was held at Greater Bethel AME Church, but a traditional closing sermon was not scheduled to be preached.
A more important sermon was preached and that “sermon” touched the lives of young and old alike. The “introduction” of the sermon was a session on HIV/AIDS that was held for preachers. That session was filled to capacity and it was truly the introduction to the sermon. We thought it was the sermon, but it wasn’t.
The “meat and gravy” of the sermon was the workshop that was held in the nave of Greater Bethel. The church was filled to capacity on the main level, in the balcony, and in the hallways and out into the parking lot. The church was full of young people attentive to the discussion about HIV/AIDS and other Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs).
The panel consisted of three medical doctors, the Reverend Dr. Kenneth Robinson, Dr. Cornelia Graves, Dr. Cecil Cone III, and two women who were infected with the HIV/AIDS virus. Those two women and those medical doctors “kept it real.” Brother Reggie Farris a licentiate at St. John, Nashville was the facilitator.
The young people and the adults paid attention. Folks didn’t leave early; as a matter of fact the young folks were hanging around, long after the benediction. And, not only that, but young people were in line to be tested for the HIV/AIDS virus; the line went down the hallway.
Now, that was a sermon!
Our local churches need more “sermons” like the one that was “preached” at the closing of the 13th Episcopal District planning Meeting.
As with the one-women performance of Sheryl Lee Ralph on Friday night, the questions had to be cut off because of time and the those had questions met with the panel members after the benediction; now that’s church! We need more “church” in the AME Church because blacks have the highest rate of infection and black American women have the highest rate of new HIV/AIDS infections.
For instance, Washington, D.C., has the highest rate of AIDS in the United States, and more babies are born with the AIDS virus in Washington than in any other U.S. city.
People living in Washington and in other areas are not getting tested for HIV and show up with advanced infections that progress quickly to AIDS; that’s the report by city health officials across America.
According the “Sometimes I Cry” program bulletin, HIV is a virus that is transmitted from person to person through the exchange of body fluids such as blood, semen, breast milk and vaginal secretions. Sexual contact is the most common way to spread HIV, but it can also be transmitted by sharing needles when injecting drugs. AS HIV reproduces, it damages the body’s immune system and the body becomes susceptible to illness and infection.
The program bulletin also states that AIDS is a condition that describes an advanced state of HIV infection. With AIDS, the virus has progressed, causing significant loss of white blood cells (CD4 cells) or any of the cancers of infections that result from immune system damage.
The church, generally and the AME Church, specifically, can fight the HIV/AIDS battle only if people get tested. Pastors, church leaders, and the African American community must get actively involved, and that was Bishop McKenzie’s message; that was Ms Sheryl Lee Ralph’s message; that was the message of the medical doctors and the two HIV/AIDS infected ladies on the panel at the closing session at Greater Bethel. HIV/AIDS is not “their problem” it’s “our problem.”
The gay community, which several years ago, had the highest incidence of HIV/AIDS infection, cut their HIV/AIDS infection rate by 90 percent, mainly by HIV/AIDS testing. The black community needs to follow their example and stress to the black community the need for HIV/AIDS testing. We need to test our young people and our old people because there are many in the black community who are infected with HIV/AIDS and don’t know that they are infected. Those who are infected need treatment and treatment will enhance the quality of their lives. Without treatment, their lives will deteriorate and they will die.
As Dr. Kenneth Robinson, pastor of St Andrew, Memphis said again and again at the workshop, “We all have to die sooner or later, but we want it to be later.”
If you are reading this, think and say, “Later.” Get treated and you might live a long live. If you don’t get treated, you are going to die sooner.
2. CONNECTIONAL AME CHURCH DATES TO REMEMBER:
Christmas – December 25
2008
Epiphany – January 6
21st Church Growth and Evangelism Seminar, ATL, GA, January 8-11
WMS Executive Meeting, Charlotte, SC - January 23 - 27
Founder’s Day – February 14
GDC Executive Meeting - 17th District - February 5 - 8
Ash Wednesday – February 6
Good Friday – March 21
Easter – March 23, 2008
CONVO XI / General Board, Dallas, TX - April 14 - 16, 2008
Ministries in Christian Education, Columbus, OH - April 24 -26
Ascension Day – May 1
Pentecost Sunday – May 11
Mother’s Day – May 11
Hampton University Ministers' Conference - June 2 - 6
48th Quadrennial Session of the General Conference - July 4 - 11
For more AME dates and information, go to the official AME Website: http://www.ame-church.com/
3. SOME OF THE APPOINTMENTS AT THE 13TH EPISCOPAL DISTRICT PLANNING MEETING:
Presiding Elder Linda Martin from West Kentucky Annual Conference to West Tennessee Annual Conference; Presiding Elder Ralph Johnson from the Kentucky Annual Conference to the West Kentucky Annual Conference; the Reverend Kenneth Golphin from St. Paul, Lexington to presiding elder of the Kentucky Annual Conference; the Reverend Troy Thomas (the Reverend Maxine Thomas) transferred from the Philadelphia Annual Conference to the Kentucky Annual Conference and assigned to St. Paul AME Church, Lexington, Kentucky.
4. EPISCOPAL SUPERVISOR STAN MCKENZIE, RETIRED NBA PLAYER, EXCUSED EARLY FROM THE 13TH DISTRICT PLANNING MEETING:
Bishop Vashti Murphy McKenzie excused Supervisor Stan McKenzie from the closing session of the 13th Episcopal District Planning Meeting so that he could attend a reunion of some of his retired Baltimore Bullets teammates as they gathered to celebrate the Washington Wizards’ retiring of Earl “The Pearl” Monroe’s Number 10 Jersey. Monroe was drafted in 1967 by the Baltimore Bullets - the Wizards' predecessor - and played for the franchise until 1971.
It was important for Supervisor Stan to attend the reunion because he was the roommate of Earl “The Pearl” Monroe when they both played for the Bullets. The Washington Wizards retired Monroe's Number 10 jersey last Saturday night (12/1/07) at halftime of their game against the Toronto Raptors.
Monroe's jersey is fourth to be retired by the franchise. It took its place next to Wes Unseld's No. 41, Elvin Hayes' No. 11 and Gus Johnson's No. 25.
Supervisor Stan McKenzie had the pleasure of being in the owner's box with Bishop Vashti Murphy McKenzie, Abe Pollin and his wife Irene along with other basketball notables such as Earl Monroe, Kevin Loughery, Archie Clark, Phill Chenier, Wes Unseld, Mike Riordan, and Mike Davis.
An informal dinner was held at Morton's Restaurant on Connecticut Avenue to celebrate the Washington Wizards retiring of Earl "The Pearl" Monroe's jersey.
Supervisor Stan McKenzie played for the Baltimore Bullets in 1967 and he was Monroe’s roommate. Earl “The Pearl” Monroe was the best man in McKenzie’s wedding.
The retiring of Monroe’s jersey was capped by Caron Butler scoring 29 points and Antawn Jamison scoring 28-points that led the Washington Wizards to a 101-97 victory over the Toronto Raptors. Roger Mason Jr. netted 15 points and DeShawn Stevenson also chipped in with 11 for the Wizards.
When the halftime ceremony was held, Monroe was joined on the court at half-time by former Bullets, our own Stan McKenzie, Mike Davis, Mike Riordan, Archie Clark, Kevin Loughery, Phil Chenier, Wes Unseld and Ernie Grunfeld.
Editor’s Comment: Thank you, Supervisor Stan; we love to see members of the African Methodist Episcopal Church in the limelight.
5. THE 139TH SESSION OF THE ARKANSAS ANNUAL CONFERENCE:
Union AME Church in Little Rock, Arkansas was the selected site for the Twelfth Episcopal District Arkansas Annual Conference held on November 14-18, 2007.
The pastor and first lady, Rev. Randolph Martin and Mrs. Charolett Martin crossed all T’s and dotted all I’s as they prepared for the last of the seven conference to be presided over by the dynamic duo, Bishop Richard Allen Chappelle Sr., and Mother Barbara Jeanne Chappelle before their retirement in 2008. Their work did not go unnoticed as the members of the conference assembled in the sanctuary for the opening worship service on Wednesday, November 14, 2007 at 10:00 a.m.
The Rt. Rev. Richard Allen Chappelle, Sr., presiding Bishop of the 12th Episcopal District led the opening worship Service of the 139th Session of the Arkansas Annual Conference. Rev. James Thomas III presided over the worship service due to illness of Presiding Elder Charles M. Cleaver. Reverend John Grissom, pastor of Allen Chapel, Sweet Home, Arkansas gave a soulful testimony in his sermon, “This is My Story: Our God Is an Awesome God” from Hebrews 10:19-25. He reminded us of the awesome power of a God, who is no respecter of persons and the things he can do that no other person can do.
The Ecumenical Service was held on Wednesday night featuring the Male Chorus from Greater Center Star Baptist Church whose soul stirring renditions opened the way for their pastor, The Reverend Limmie Downs, who reminded us “ Don’t Loose our Focus” using the story of the three Hebrews boys in Daniel 3:16-18. His plan words and humorous anecdotes helped us assuage any uneasiness to his soul-searching message.
Bishop Chappelle opened each morning’s work with Conference in study as we perused the pages of Dr. James F. Miller’s book, “Go Build a Church! Spiritual Administration for Growth.” The information in the book was testimony of Dr. Miller’s journey to complete the mandate given him by Bishop J. Haskell Mayo “to go build a church.”
Reverend Diane L. Burl, candidate for Bishop in 2008 answered the question during the Thursday’s Hour of Power, “Where is the Glory?” showing that the glory of God is revealed through us and if we are not faithful in presenting God to the people, “God Will Liberate the Legacy of who He is.” Her message was taken from I Samuel 3:1-4, 19: 4:22.
The Arkansas Conference Sons of Allen under the leadership of the Conference Coordinator, Rev. Bill A. Bowers, and Conference President, Brother Cory Williams, assisted by the 12th Episcopal District Coordinator, Rev. Randolph Martin, lifted our spirits with songs and praise on Thursday night. Awards were presented to Rev. John Grissom, pastor of Allen Chapel, Sweet Home, Arkansas for his Community Involvement, Mr. John Lamb for Business and Luanzo Lung”aho, the youth award. Reginald Cleaver Jr., the newly elected Connectional YPD President was presented a plaque for achievement. His mother, Mrs. Vanessa Cleaver and brother, Mr. Timothy Cleaver received the award in his absence. Bishop and Mother Chappelle were presented with gifts and a plaque in recognition of their eight years of service in the 12th Episcopal District.
Reverend Nelson Spencer presented by Bishop Chappelle as one of the old time preachers and pastor of New Saint Paul in Warren, Arkansas brought the house to its feet with “The Lord Is” using the 23rd Psalm as his text during the hour of power on Friday. The South Conference, referred to as the Solid South filled the house and urged their colleague on as he brought us to the throne of grace. The Monticello District Choir set the pace for the spirited worship experience.
The Seven Annual Conference Lay Departments decided to emphasize education and the relationship that has developed with Shorter College. In the past, the Lay Department and Shorter College had individual nights, but a team approach immerged and a Lay-Education Night Banquet was born at each individual conference. Mr. Tedford Collins, a son of the Twelfth emceed the banquet in the Arkansas Conference with dignity. The Honorable Judge Wendell Griffin’s message “Re-education of a people once called Negro” recalled a period in time when the black family realized the importance of educating their children, and also of teaching them to respect their elders and authority. The Arkansas Lay President, Mrs. Helen Davis and Bishop Richard A. Chappelle, Sr., presented the 2007 Circle of Honor to inductees: Gladys Davis, Lillian Springer, Alphonzo Myles, Sr., Pamela Hudson, Thelma Gibson and a youth, Natalie Horton.
Bishop Chappelle presided over his last Ordination Service, wrought with emotion from extreme to extreme, from laughter to tears, from solemnity to dancing ordaining eight itinerant deacons: Marcia Burns, Barbara Butler, Ervin Finney, Trina Jones, Byron Miller, Michael Stewart, Renata Williams, and Betty Tolefree, one local deacon Wilma Walker, and two itinerant elders: Reverend Sandra Ransom Eldridge and Reverend Kingston Clayton Malone. The sermon: “ Challenge that Comes from Above” brought by the Reverend Dr. Ronald Braxton, pastor of the “Cathedral of African Methodism”, Metropolitan AME Church in Washing DC, told us emphatically God uses people and the challenge is to give up our own lives for others sometimes at great costs. The challenge is not public, but private. In all things depend on God, be content. God will provide whatever we need!
Mrs. Jeannie Gray, Arkansas Conference DMC Coordinator using the motto, “Daily Magnify Christ” gave tributes to the Allenites, Sub-Debutantes, Sub-Masters, and Debutantes. The young people recognized were: ALLENITES: Donald Blake Smith –Union, Bryce Brown - Ward Chapel, Darius D. Taylor - Allen Chapel - Sweet Home, Labrion Turrelle Jones – Union, Richard Wallis - Bethel – Little Rock, Elijah Askew - Bethel –Little Rock, Mallari Adina Miller - Ward Chapel, Makenzie Berry - Ward Chapel, Keiara Bates - Bethel – Little Rock, Mariah Vines - Lee Chapel, North Little Rock.
Sub-Masters and Sub-Debs: Antwann Taylor - Allen Chapel - Sweet Home, Jamalin M. Nash - Moody Chapel, Cherrell Johnson - Bethel – LR, Alexandria Parker - Moody Chapel, J'vonte Carr - Moody Chapel
Debutantes: Monika Lucas - Moody Chapel and Terrika Edwards - Moody Chapel. Mr. Reginald Cleaver, Jr., the connectional YPD President graced us with a song. Ms. Lyndajo Jones, Episcopal DMC Coordinator helped pass out the certificates.
The performance of the Mother Sunbeams, Allen Stars and the YPD’er were outstanding under the leadership of Ms. La Rhonda Collins, Arkansas Conference YPD Director, and Mr. Wesley Baker, the outgoing YPD President. The YPD’ers brought excitement into the house as they enacted a skit entitled, “Jesus, I’m Loving Him!” which told the story of the Crucifixion. The YPD paid tribute to Bishop and Mother Chappelle as they lit eight candles reminding them of the light they brought to the 12th District during their eight-year tenure.
The closing day services started with Church School at 9:00 A.M. lead by the Conference Church School Superintendent, Rev. Shirley Inkton Bowers and assisted by Mrs. Alytrius Bridgers, Superintendent of the Church School at Lee Chapel AME Church in North Little Rock, Arkansas. The Subject was: God Preserved a Remnant with lesson scripture taken from Genesis 43:1-45:15. The church with the largest enrollment since last year award went to Saint Paul AME Church in Morrilton, Arkansas where the Reverend Jeff Carr is pastor and Ms. Joyce Smith is the Superintendent.
Reverend Eugene Brannon, Presiding Elder of the Little Rock District presided at the closing service on November 18, 2007. Bishop Chappelle led us to the mountaintop as he asked the question, Lost Sheep, what’s got your attention? His subject: “Good News for the Lost” from Luke 15 and Matthew 18:11 made us realize we do have hope in a caring Christ!
Rev. Charles M. Cleaver, Presiding Elder of the North Little Rock/Fort Smith District was recognized for his many years of dedicated service to the AME Church in a Retirement Ceremony. Due to illness, Rev. Cleaver could not attend and his faithful wife, Mrs. Delilah Cleaver stood in his place. People from all over the church lead by Bishop Chappelle and Mother Chappelle lined up to congratulate Mrs. Cleaver with a hug and a monetary token. She has been by his side all the time!
Special acknowledge was given to the many friends from other district and conference that spent time with us during the week. The presence of Mr. Raymond Frazier, representative from Senator Blanch Lincoln’s Office and Mr. Herman Williams, representative from Governor Mike Beebe’s Office who presented Mother Chappelle with a gorgeous fall arrangement of flowers in a vase was acknowledged. We were please to have Rev. Dr. Ronald Braxton from Metropolitan AME Church, Washington DC, Rev. Wesley Reid from Lee Memorial, Cleveland Ohio, and Rev. Dr. Jeffery Leath, Mother Bethel AME Church in Philadelphia, PA. All are candidates for Episcopal Service. Special recognition goes to our visiting presiding elders from our sister conferences, Clarence V. Boyd, Thomas G. Allen, James R. Hooper, Napoleon Davis, Jr., Dennis Hampton and Samuel Arnold. Others in attendance were Dr. Anna B. Graham, Sis Martha Simpson, Rev. Larry Banks, and Rev. James Giles. Many others from throughout the 12th came during various times and their presence was acknowledged.
The Conference Choir under the direction of the Arkansas Conference Music Director, Brother La Baron Mizer brought exceptional music to the worship experience. His talent is recognized by other denominations. He travels with the Spirit!
Rev. Randolph and Mrs. Charolett Martin were applauded along with the Union AME Church Family for the manner in which they attended to every delegate’s needs during the conference and Presiding Elder and Mrs. Anita Brannon for supplying a whole pig for lunch at the opening day; yes, a whole pig with an apple in his mouth!
The 139th Session of the Mother Conference” the Arkansas Annual Conference of the 12th Episcopal District closed and we considered it a high honor to be the last conference presided over by Bishop Richard Allen Chappelle, Sr. and Mother Barbara Jeanne Chappelle in their career. To quote Reverend Diane Burl, “the Lightening Bolt of African Methodism has been here in this place! We realize that a more excellent way involves accountability from all departments on all levels of the church. There is no replacement for order and organization.”
We would like to salute the Dynamic Duo, Bishop and Mother Chappelle for a job well done!
Submitted by Mrs. Ann Gilkey, Arkansas Conference Public Relations Director
6. THE TWELFTH EPISCOPAL DISTRICT ARKANSAS ANNUAL CONFERENCE WOMEN’S MISSIONARY SOCIETY:
*Sister Ann Gilkey
The Arkansas Annual Conference Women’s Missionary Society convened at Union African Methodist Episcopal Church in Little Rock, Arkansas where the Rev. Randolph W. Martin, Sr. was the host pastor on November13, 2007.
Our Episcopal Leader, Bishop Richard Allen Chappelle, Sr., and Mother Barbara Jeanne Chappelle, now called the Dynamic Duo, announced at the beginning of the conference, you are the last of the seven. We now call ourselves the Mother Conference, the Last of the Seven!
The Arkansas Annual Conference Women’s Missionary Society (WMS) began business under the efficient leadership of the Conference President, Ms. Phyllis Johnson and culminated with the election of officers for the 2007-2008-conference year. New officers elected are President; Ms. Phyllis Johnson, 1st Vice President - Mrs. Jerralyn Smith, 2nd Vice President- Mrs. Johnnie Branch, 3rd Vice President-Ms. Keisha Stewart, Recording Secretary- Mrs. Tina Norwood, Assistant Recording Secretary-Ms. Adrian Johnson, Corresponding Secretary - Mrs. Carolyn Davie, Treasurer - Mrs. Thelmon Stuckey, Parliamentarian-Dr. Edith Altheimer, Historiographer Statistician - Mrs. Valerie Wofford, Y.P.D. Director-Ms. La Rhonda Collins, Worship Leader-Ms. Tina Grissom, P.M.E. Director - Mrs. Peggy Pilgrim, Y.W.I. Coordinator-Ms. Brandi Smith. The Third Vice President, Ms. Keisha Stewart, presented a Memorial Service in PowerPoint. All members watched a PowerPoint Presentation developed by Mrs. Ann Gilkey as Mrs. Lovie Aaron spoke about the Quadrennial Convention. The meeting concluded with the honoring of Life Members by the Young Women’s Initiative, (YWI) during their annual luncheon held at the Hilton Hotel in Little Rock, Arkansas. Gifts were presented to everyone in attendance and special gifts were given to the Life Members, Sisters Rosie Banks (100 yrs old-Home). Mabel Watkins, Flossie Green, Ozie Payne (Over 100 years old) Lillian Springer, Betty Jackson, Edith Altheimer, Barbara Johnson, Delilah Cleaver, Margaret Jones, Mercille Springer, Betty Jackson, Delilah Cleaver, and Phyllis Lamb. Everyone was pleased to welcome a new Life Member, Sister Lovie Aaron, a member of Holly Grove AME Church in North Little Rock, Arkansas.
The Arkansas Conference WMS Night in White defined the spirit and set the pace for the Annual Conference opening day as Sister Jerralyn Smith, 1st Vice President presided with grace and spirit. Dr. Barbara Jeanne Chappelle capped the new members, Sisters Meredith Rogers, Monica Key, Tyce Scroggins, Felecia Turner and Desiree Thomas. The WMS ladies showed how the Commissions of the Society should work through a skit entitled, “Working for Christ through the Commissions.” The skit was written and directed by the 1st Vice President- Sister Jerralyn Smith. The Millennium Dancers performed a liturgical interpretation of “He Covered Me.” Our own Mother Charolett Martin, 12th Episcopal President was one of the dancers. The evening ended with, “A Great Look Back” as the Society gave tribute to Mother Chappelle’s eight years journey in the Twelfth District. Her favorite songs were sung and a bouquet of beautiful red roses was presented.
Let it be known everywhere, the Arkansas Conference WMS counted it a high honor to be the last conference presided over by Mother Barbara Jeanne Chappelle in her stellar career.
Hat’s off to our Mother, she taught us a more Excellent Way!
*Sister Ann Gilkey is the Arkansas Annual Conference Public Relations Director-Photographer
7. NEWLY APPOINTED CHIEF OF POLICE A MEMBER AND OFFICER AT ST. MARK AME CHURCH, ORLANDO:
The new Police Chief of Orlando, Florida is Val Demings, a member and officer at St Mark AME Church, Orlando, Florida, where the Rev Terrence Gray is the pastor. She was appointed by Mayor Buddy Dyer.
As the Police Chief, she will oversee the day-to-day operations of the department and serve as chief counsel to the City in matters of public safety. Mayor Buddy Dyer said, “I am confident in Chief Demings’ ability to lead the Orlando Police Department, effectively combating the crime of today and ensuring the safety of our community tomorrow.”
Mayer Dyer went on to say that Police Chief Demings has a proven track record in every facet and function of law enforcement operations including: uniform patrol, criminal investigations, special operations, internal investigations, airport services, crime prevention, tactical patrol operations, neighborhood patrol operations and crisis negotiation. He went on to say that she also brings an extensive background with training from the FBI National Academy and the Southern Police Institute Command Officer’s Development Course, and numerous leadership roles with community service organizations.
Most recently, Demings was responsible for “Operation Delta,” a multi-phased operation targeting street-level drug operations, resulting in the arrests of hundreds of individuals.
Chief Demings’ husband, Jerry, was the Chief of Police prior to the retiring Chief McCoy. Jerry is now a candidate for sheriff of Orange County.
Demings’ appointment as Police Chief was approved by the Orlando City Council on December 3, 2007.
We, the members of the African Methodist Episcopal Church congratulate Chief Demings in her new role as Chief of Police for Orlando, Florida.
8. PEACE IN THE MIST OF A STORM:
By: Delanda S. Johnson
As we enter into the holiday season, have you ever wondered how Joseph and Mary may have felt the night of Jesus’ birth? How, at the time of Jesus’ birth there was no room for them anywhere in the city of Bethlehem and that the King wanted to kill all of the baby boys.
However, the parents of Jesus found, “Peace in the Mist of a Storm.”
On Saturday, December 1st; members of the Henderson County Interdenominational Ministers Alliance (IMA) brought a Christmas message to approximately 400 or more inmates at the Coffield Unit in Tenn. Colony, Texas.
Bishop Annell Castille Haney, Church of Living God/Malakoff, Evangelist Alma Berry, Johnson Chapel AME Church/Malakoff); and Elder Ivory J. Givens, Church of Living God/Seagoville, carried a word of hope, love, forgiveness, and faith.
Evangelist Berry of Johnson Chapel asked, “Have you ever had a storm in your life? For you see, if you have not, then just wait; a storm will come, but know that there is “Peace in the mist of a Storm.”
Berry defined the word “stumble” as, “to get in the way, to sin or error/do wrong, to keep from getting closer to God.”
“No matter what the situation may be, know that God is near you, when you are in your storm.
“Remember Daniel in the Lions’ Den. He was rescued in the midst of his storm,” said Berry. Berry went on to say, “If you find yourself in a situation where you feel that you have no way out, know that God will make a way out of no way and that there is peace in the midst of a storm.”
Bishop Haney stated, “God is cool when needed to make cool and hot when needed to make hot. God is your “Peace in the midst of a storm.” He said, “When Satan is on your trail, just say ‘Peace Be Still.’ Give God all praise, honor, and glory, no matter how you are feeling or how others may make you feel. Call on the name of Jesus in your midst of your storm,” said Haney.
“For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” Jesus came into a world of deceit, mistrust, envy, lust, but there is “Peace in the midst of a storm,” said Haney.
Haney wanted the inmates to know that Jesus shred His blood for them so they could have everlasting life. God’s mercy and grace is all that is need. Jesus Christ is your “Peace in the midst of a storm.”
Elder Givens pointed to a man by the biblical patriarch, Joseph who the Bible says was a dreamer. The dreamer was in the mist of a storm from his own family; his brothers. “If you look at Joseph, he was a man who was sold into slavery by one of his brothers, while his other brothers wanted him dead. Joseph placed his trust and faith in God; that was Joseph’s “peace in the midst of his storm,” said Givens.
Givens went on to say that one may find him or herself in a place or situation where they know that they should not be, but there is, “peace in the midst of the Storm.”
“Sometimes you must let go and let God handle your problems and not try to handle it yourself. You must not try to fix the problem, but know there is, “peace in the midst of a Storm,” said Givens.
Givens stated that we often come to Jesus when we are filthy rags, but our sins can be washed away through the blood of JESUS. Jesus died to set us free because He is our “Peace in the midst of a storm.”
9. SOUTH PHILADELPHIA DISTRICT CONFERENCE EXCEEDS EXPECTATIONS:
By Angelena Spears
South Philadelphia District Reporter
Persons who came to the South Philadelphia District Conference on October 5, expecting a blessing did not leave disappointed. Instead, the day-long event, held at St. John AME Church, Paschall, in Philadelphia, was packed with powerful preaching, informative workshops, uplifting music and good food.
This was the fourth district conference put together by the district’s Presiding Elder Charles H. Lett, Sr. And like the previous conferences, this one surpassed everyone’s expectations.
The day began with a continental breakfast and devotions. After the roll call of organizations, component reports were given by the various organizations, including the Lay Organization, Missionary Society, Church School, Young People’s Department, Christian Education and the Economic Development Task Force.
Sister Jean Adams, superintendent of the district’s Church Schools announced that the church school had given over $10,000 in scholarships over the last 19 years to 72recipients.
The delegate reports gave evidence that the 17 churches that make up the district are on the move. Hickman Temple AME, in Philadelphia, the lead church in the district, which is served by the Rev. Jocelyn Hart, reported that 12 new members had joined the church in the last quarter and that the church reduced its debt by $250,000.
The delegate for Campbell AME, Media, PA, proudly announced that their church will celebrate its 180th anniversary this year, and that according to records they are the oldest church of any denomination in Delaware County. The Rev. Lanxton Washington is their pastor.
Mount Zion AME, Norristown, where the Rev. Kanice Johns is the pastor, reported that their Vacation Bible School had attracted over 60 people.
Bethel AME, in West Chester, served by the Rev. Donald Bellamy, announced that they have a very active prison ministry that is dedicated to letting prisoners know their church is anxious to receive them when they are released.
“The Hour of Power” service lived up to its name when the Rev. Dr. DeLishia Boykin Wilson, the new pastor for Bethel AME, Reading, delivered a dynamic sermon based on her theme, which was “Armed and Dangerous.” She preached from St. John 12: 10–11, and literally had preachers and lay persons on their feet from the powerful delivery.
Rev. Wilson said as Christians, we need to “arm” ourselves with the Shield of Faith and the Helmet of Salvation, and therefore, when the adversary tries to attack us – instead of running away or even flinching, we need to take on the persona of Clint Eastwood in Blazing Glory, and say “Go Ahead. Make My Day.”
After a delicious lunch served by the host church, two workshops were presented.
The first workshop was titled “From Membership to Discipleship” and was presented with fervor by the Rev. Arnold Evans form Campbell AME Church, Philadelphia.
The second workshop was titled “Financing Church Construction Projects” and was presented by the Rev. Sidney Williams of Union Bethel AME Church, Brandywine, MD. Rev. Williams is a graduate of the University of Pennsylvania’s Wharton Business School. He is a key partner in an organization called EKOS Ministries, Inc., which works with churches to develop and acquire financing for affordable housing.
The spiritual momentum continued throughout the day, all the way through the closing service, for which the Rev. Maurice Hughes, of New Bethel Germantown, was the preacher.
At the end of the evening, Elder Lett thanked the host pastor, the Rev. Donald Burems, for their church’s wonderful hospitality. He also thanked New Bethel’s choir along with the specially formed South Philadelphia District Choir (under the leadership of 14-year-old Earl Knight) for the exceptional musical talent they had rendered as a blessing to the services.
10. A MESSAGE TO THE HOLY MEMBERS OF THE A. M. E. MINISTERIAL ALLIANCE OF THE SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA CONFERENCE:
And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we beheld His glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth. (John 1:14 NKJV)
Good Day. We have had a very invigorating Summer and Fall. We give praise to Bishop John & Rev. Dr. Cee, for their anointed leadership that has taken us all the way to India!!!!!!! We have taken and founded African Methodism in India, the home of Bishop William Paul Quinn, who came to America from Calcutta!!!!!
As you know, our schedule and tenure of activity run the first 4 - 5 months of the year. So before us are this years’ Christmas Celebration, Installation Service, Founder’s Day, Ash Wednesday Celebration, The Caravan, and The Good Friday Worship Event. As you know we must elect officers, keep abreast of all of our Presiding Elders Districts, Conference, and Episcopal District events so that maximum support is given as we head toward the General Conference. We have some very great community concerns that need our continual support and attention, along with the reality that there are matters that shall arise for our concern, that do you yet appear.
I look deeply forward to your presence that we have a very progressive meeting in Jesus name!!!!!!!
Grace and Power;
Leslie R. White
President
AME Ministerial Alliance of the Southern California Conference
11. WOMEN’S DAY 2007, “CHOSEN WOMEN OF GOD, STRETCHED BUT NOT BROKEN”:
The theme: “Chosen Women of God, Stretched but Not Broken,” 1 Corinthians 15:58 resonated throughout the Women’s Day Season, liberating and encouraging those who participated at each event.
Pre-Women’s Day activities included a Prayer Breakfast and Pampering for the Mind, Body and Spirit Session. Minister Laquita Landy of Agape Faith Kingdom Ministries was the guest preacher. Immediately following the message and breakfast, the women enjoyed and experience stations that included prayer, chair massage, stress management techniques and facials.
This magnificent event was followed by a Mid-Week Worship Service. The guest preacher was co-pastor Maybelline Denwiddie of New Creation Worship Centre. She preached with passion and power as she encouraged all to continue on despite the struggles.
Then, on October 28, 2007 the women of St. Paul celebrated their Annual Women’s Day. The day was bright and sunny, mirroring the colors of the day, creamery orange. The atmosphere was spiritually saturated with the Holy Spirit to the delight of a full house. There were sure signs that this day would go forward as one of complete liberation. We were blessed and encouraged by the anointed preaching of the Candidate for Episcopal honors, The Rev. Dr. Ann Lightner-Fuller, pastor of Mt. Calvary AME Church Towson, Maryland. Her sermon topic was “Desperate Women, Pray Desperate Prayers.” She challenged every believer present to live by the word, and to trust God even when the outcome is not certain. The Exalted Praise Dancers ministered to our spirits as well.
The Women’s Day Choir was awesome, led by the directress Sis. Shirley Emery and accompanied by lead musician Dennis Emery. There were many highlights to the service. Just to name a few, soloists Sister Lynette Vassell, who sang to the Yolanda Adams tune, “Yet, Still I Rise,” A surprise lead singer was the eleven year old anointed Michalae Hayward who singed with pure harmony. The morning service was taped and scheduled to be aired on Fresh Television in Bermuda.
The afternoon service was also filled to capacity as the Rev. Dr. Fuller preached with passion and power. Her sermon title was, “I’ve Got Jars.” We we’re blessed to have the Seventh Day Adventist Choir minister to us in song and spirit. The anointed power of God was truly in the sanctuary! We thank our pastor Rev. Lanel D. Guyton and Lady Tanzania Guyton, and; our Women’s Day Chair, Sister Nadine Lapsley-Dyer; Co-Chair, Sister Eunice Jones, and those who made the St. Paul Women’s Day, a day to remember.
12. ST. PAUL HAMILTON BERMUDA HOSTS FIRST ANNUAL COMMUNITY DAY AND BLOCK PARTY:
On November 18, 2007 the historic St. Paul Church affectionately known as the “Cathedral” of African Methodism in Bermuda celebrated their first Annual Community Day and Block Party.
This day was special in that the surrounding communities were given an open invitation to attend worship service with the membership of St. Paul. Shirts commemorating the day were worn in place of the usual Sunday dress. The shirts read, “St. Paul AME Church Community Day, The Year of the Family.”
The Young People’s Division, led by the president Nicolas Parris was in charge of the highly spirited service. Our pastor the Rev. Lanel D. Guyton preached from the subject, “Are You Needy Today,” part two from the series, The Four Seasons. This was an emotional charge sermon for a time such as this.
Many were non-members were in attendance and the church was filled to capacity to the delight of God. Television personality from PBS, Mr. Burt Wolfe was in attendance along with his family and film crew. After a highly spirited service a crowd of people gathered outside for food, fun, fellowship, arts, crafts, music and dance. The day was a huge success as more persons from the community begin to flock to our event. At the end of the day, the Bermuda Gombey’s danced to the rhythmic drum beat to the delight of the crowd.
Surely, this was the beginning of an event that will have a future impact on the surrounding communities for years to come.
13. PRESIDING ELDER ERIC L. BROWN GATHERED THE CLERGY AND LAITY TOGETHER TO REVEAL DISTRICT PLAN:
The Rev. Dr. Eric l. Brown, presiding elder of the Allegheny Scranton District, gathered the clergy and laity together to reveal his plan for the “Awesome” Allegheny Scranton District on Saturday, November 11, 2007 at Payne Chapel African Methodist Episcopal Church, Duquesne, Pennsylvania. The Reverend Samuel Chambers is the pastor of Payne Chapel.
A dynamic sermon delivered by the Reverend Lois Thomas, pastor of Calvary African Methodist Church, Braddock, Pennsylvania, set the tone for the planning meeting. Her text was taken from Psalm 25:1-5 and her theme was, “God the Source of our Strength.” She explained that in the time of trouble we have someone to turn to; any time and any where. She used the account of Samson in Judges 13 is an example and went on to say that his strength was from God and was not of his own. She went on to say that sometimes we have to go through things to realize that God is our strength. Samson thought his strength was in his hair but after he lost his hair, he realized that God was his strength; he was humbled, asked for forgiveness and allowed God to be his strength.
Presiding Elder Brown revealed the theme for this conference year which is, “Servants: Called to Make a Difference,” taken from I Peter 4:10-11.
Two new proposals have been implemented by Presiding Elder Brown. The first is “Adopt a Church.” The guidelines to this include:
a. Develop prayer partners between the two congregations, using either email or a telephone tree. This should be done in conjunction with the pastors or a prayer coordinator appointed by the pastor.
b. The adopting church is asked to share two (2) offerings with the adoptee congregation during the conference year.
c. The adopting church is asked to share at least one worship experience or event with the adoptee church during the conference year.
The following churches adopted churches:
Adopting Church/Adoptee Church:
St. James, Pittsburgh / St. Paul, Bellefonte
St. James, Erie / Bethel, Meadville
Greater Allen, Pittsburg / New Life, Pittsburgh
Payne Chapel, Duquesne / Nesmith, West Mifflin
First Church, Clairton / Bethel, Mt. Union
Wayman Chapel, New Brighton / Allen Chapel, Clearfield
Bethel, Tarentum / Bethel, Williamsport
St. John, Bridgewater / Calvary, Braddock
The second proposal is to continue with the 7-Point Plan for Growth. The seven points are as follows:
a. Evangelism – It shall be our goal to win 500 new souls for the Kingdom of This Conference year.
b. Education – We will expose the constituents of the Allegheny Scranton District to special training with an emphasis on Administration.
c. Evaluation – We will give serious attention and dialogue to the way we do business to discover if we can be more effective in Kingdom Building.
d. Expansion-We will continue to explore the possibility of beginning a new work in growing areas of our District with particular emphasis to the Cranberry/Mars area.
e. Emphasis on Our Youth-We will make our youth a priority when planning all events and activities.
f. Empowerment-We will empower individuals and churches to live out their faith by giving them the tools they need to become relevant disciples.
g. Economic Development-We will explore ways that we can collectively benefit from our resources (i.e., banking, savings, and home ownership).
The “Awesome” Allegheny Scranton is on the move and looking forward to a great 2007-2008 Conference year!
submitted by Sister Shelly Brown, Allegheny Scranton District Secretary
14. THE FEDERAL BUREAU OF PRISONS TO HIRE PROTESTANT SPIRITUAL LEADER FOR THE FEDERAL CORRECTIONAL COMPLEX, PETERSBURG LOCATED IN HOPEWELL, VIRGINIA:
The Bureau of Prisons of the U.S. Dept. of Justice has put out a pre-solicitation notice for the provision of Protestant Spiritual Leader services for the Federal Corrections Complex-Petersburg, located in Hopewell, Virginia.
The actual solicitation will be made available on or about December 3, 2007, and the anticipated response deadline for the solicitation is January 4, 2008. The contract period shall consist of a base period of one year with four 1-year option periods for renewal at the discretion of the Government. It is estimated that 936 one-hour sessions will be provided per year.
Faith-based and community organizations can submit offers/bids/quotations equally with other organizations for contracts for which they are eligible. For further information, please go to: http://www.fbo.gov/spg/DOJ/BPR/70032/RFQ%2D11411%2D0003%2D8/listing.html or contact: Terri Tharp, Contract Specialist, Phone (972) 352-4558, Fax (972) 352-4545, Email ttharp@bop.gov.
Submitted by Stephanie and Eric Stradford
Youth Achievers USA Institute
www.YouthUSA.org
15. THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES OF TURNER THEOLOGICAL SEMINARY (TTS) SEEKS A CANDIDATE FOR THE POSITION OF PRESIDENT/ DEAN. DEADLINE FOR APPLICANTS’ SUBMISSION: JANUARY 15, 2008:
Position: President/Dean
Salary: Unspecified
Institution: Turner Theological Seminary
Location: Atlanta, Georgia
Date Posted: 9/15/2007
Turner Theological Seminary
President/Dean
The Board of Trustees of Turner Theological Seminary (TTS) seeks a candidate for the position of President/ Dean. The position is to be filled on or before the Academic school year 2008-2009.
Candidates for the position should possess the following minimum qualifications:
1. An earned Master of Divinity Degree from a seminary accredited by ATS. Post Graduate Degree desired.
2. An Itinerant Elder of at least 4 years in the African Methodist Episcopal Church.
3. Pastoral and/or Educational experience required
Interested Applicants should send a cover letter, short bio, and resume or vitae.
Applications will be treated with the utmost confidentiality. Applicants can submit information by mail or online. Deadline to submit materials are January 15, 2008.
All materials should be sent to:
The Rev. Gregory Eason
Chair, Presidential Search Committee
204 Auburn Avenue
Atlanta, Georgia 30303
Or
[TurnerPresident@aol.com]
17. PROFESSIONAL POSTION OPENINGS AT THE NEW BRUNSWICK THEOLOGICAL SEMINARY:
Position in New Testament
NEW BRUNSWICK THEOLOGICAL SEMINARY, a teaching institution of the Reformed Church in America called to serve the whole church, seeks to fill a full-time position in New Testament.
The Seminary offers an inclusive and diverse community with an explicit anti-racist commitment and welcomes individuals from wide ecumenical backgrounds. Ph.D. required.
We seek someone with excellent teaching skills who thrives in an interdenominational and racially diverse community of scholars and students with a commitment to public theology. Experience in an urban community preferred. For qualifications and requirements, please refer to the Seminary’s website for a description of the position and details regarding application. This position is a three-year non-tenure track appointment, with possibility of renewal.
Deadline for submission of applications: January 1, 2008. Send letter of application and resume with contact information for three references to Dean Virginia Wiles, New Brunswick Theological Seminary, 17 Seminary Place, New Brunswick, NJ 08901 (vwiles@nbts.edu). The Seminary is an Equal Opportunity Employer and encourages women and persons of color to apply.
Faculty Position in Supervised Ministry
NEW BRUNSWICK THEOLOGICAL SEMINARY, a teaching institution of the Reformed Church in America called to serve the whole church, seeks to fill a full-time tenure-track faculty position in Supervised Ministry and Ministry Studies.
The Seminary offers an inclusive and diverse community with an explicit anti-racist commitment and welcomes individuals from wide ecumenical backgrounds. Ph.D. required.
We seek someone with excellent teaching skills who thrives in an interdenominational and racially diverse community of scholars and students with a commitment to public theology. Experience in an urban community preferred. An advanced degree in practical theology or ministry studies (D.Min., Ph.D. or equivalent) is required. The ideal candidate will have at least ten years of parish ministry experience and sustained cross-cultural and ecumenical experience and C.P.E. or some other form of preparation for and experience of the supervision of persons in ministry. Please refer to the Seminary’s website for a description of the position.
Deadline for submission of applications: January 15, 2008. Send letter of application and resume with contact information for three references to Dean Virginia Wiles, New Brunswick Theological Seminary, 17 Seminary Place, New Brunswick, NJ 08901 (vwiles@nbts.edu ). The Seminary is an Equal Opportunity Employer and encourages women and persons of color to apply.
Submitted by the Rev. Jerome Stembridge, pastor, Mt. Zion AME Church, Princeton, New Jersey
18. ANCIENT CONFLICTS, MODERN CONTROVERSY – NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC CHANNEL OFFERS NEW THEORIES AND ACCOUNTS OF JESUS’ BIRTHPLACE, ADOLESCENCE AND FAMILY TOMB:
Three-Night Event Delves Into Questions: What Was Jesus’ Teenage Life Like? Are Recently Discovered Artifacts Authentic? And Why Are Christians Fleeing Bethlehem?
(WASHINGTON, D.C. – December 3, 2007) This December, millions of people around the world will celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, even as questions and controversies persist regarding his life, times and context. While the New Testament presents one record of his birth and the sequence of events in his life, there are gaps in the timeline that remain a mystery. Further mystery — and contention — surround Jesus’ birthplace and any possible physical proof of his life and death.
For three nights, National Geographic Channel (NGC) journeys into the crux of the Christian religion to explore centuries-old controversy, new theories, polarizing discoveries and current events in The Missing Years of Jesus, premiering Monday, December 17, at 9 p.m. ET/PT; Decoding Bible Relics, premiering Tuesday, December 18, at 9 p.m. ET/PT; and Explorer: Last Christians of Bethlehem, premiering Wednesday, December 19, at 9 p.m. ET/PT.
These three specials ask engaging questions: What were Jesus Christ’s teenage years like? What cultural and political issues may have influenced him? Are recently discovered finds in the Holy Land authentic artifacts or sophisticated fakes? And what does the future hold for the last remaining Christians of Bethlehem and the sacred sites of this richly historic city? Each show draws from a wide variety of sources, including interviews with biblical scholars, religious leaders, archaeologists, authors and those at the center of a firestorm.
Premieres include:
"The Missing Years of Jesus"
Monday, December 17, at 9 p.m. ET/PT (World Premiere)
Between the ages of 12 and 30, the life of Jesus Christ is nearly unaccounted for — almost two decades missing from the man at the core of the Christian religion. Today, scholars are beginning to form a clearer picture of the missing years by examining stories in the New Testament gospels and reconciling this record with new archeological discoveries. A narrative rich in details and subtle clues begins to emerge. What was his family life like? Was he educated or bilingual? Where might he have worked? And what cultural and political issues may have influenced him? Go back to Nazareth in 6 A.D. to learn more about the blue-collar village where he lived, its oppressed inhabitants and abusive Roman rulers to see how it may have influenced Jesus’ rebellious personality and radical beliefs.
"Decoding Bible Relics"
Tuesday, December 18, at 9 p.m. ET/PT
In recent years, extraordinary finds in the Holy Land have appeared to support the legendary Temple of Solomon and burial of Jesus. But can we distinguish authentic artifact from sophisticated fake, fact from fiction? See how a tiny four-centimeter-long object, called the ivory pomegranate and thought to be the ornamental tip of a priest’s ceremonial staff, becomes a revolutionary discovery — the first physical evidence that King Solomon’s temple existed. But is the engraved Aramaic text genuine? And who is the owner and where did it come from? Then, investigate a shiny black stone with ancient writing known as the Jehoash Tablet that seems to confirm events in the New Testament. Is it a priceless artifact or a hoax? And finally, go to the tomb some believe belonged to Jesus’ family, which received widespread publicity and skepticism.
"Explorer: Last Christians of Bethlehem"
Wednesday, December 19, at 9 p.m. ET/PT (World Premiere)
The Church of the Nativity in the heart of Bethlehem marks one of Christianity's most sacred sites: the birthplace of Christ. For centuries, it was one of the most fought-over holy places, seized and defended by a succession of armies — including Muslim and Crusader forces. Explorer takes us inside Bethlehem, the famous epicenter of Christendom, to show us that the city is still a place of passions interrupted. Follow the event that polarized the world, when armed Muslim extremists sought refuge in the Church of the Nativity in 2002 and instigated a deadly standoff between Palestinian gunmen and Israeli soldiers. Years later, in the wake of the siege, tourists and worshippers to the church are few, and Christian residents are caught in the crosshairs of a growing Islamic fundamentalism and the entrenched Israeli fortress that surrounds it. Hear the fervid, revealing stories from those at the center of a changing, divided city.
19. CLERGY FAMILY CONGRATULATORY NOTICE:
- Congratulations and best wishes to the proud and happy parents, Mrs. Constance Grady Woodberry and Kenneth Woodberry, Esq.; sister, Little Miss Kendall Bynum Woodberry; grandparents, Bishop and Mrs. Z. L. Grady (Ret); aunt, Mrs. Felita Grady Davis and uncle, Rev. Carey Andrew Grady.
Congratulatory Expressions may be sent to:
Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth Woodberry & Kendall
5000 S. Cornell Ave., Unit 3-B
Chicago, IL 60615
Email: cluvira@yahoo.com
- Dr. and Mrs. (Clara) Johnny Barbour, Jr., Secretary-Treasurer Sunday School Union, African Methodist Episcopal Church celebrated their 45th wedding anniversary on Saturday, November 24, 2007.
Congratulatory Expressions may be sent to:
500 8th Ave. South
Suite 200
Nashville, TN 37203
Or to:
185 Bristol Boulevard
Jackson, MS 39204
20. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
We regret to inform you of the passing of Cora Mae Jones. Mrs. Jones was the sister of Rev. Gena Johnson, an associate minister at Allen AME Church in Newark, New Jersey. The following information has been provided regarding funeral arrangements.
The funeral has been held
Expressions of Sympathy may be sent to:
Rev. Gena M. Johnson
419 Sanford Ave., Apt. 303B
Newark, NJ 07103
21. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
We wish to inform you that the Rev. Wilhelmenia Coleman, a local elder, member of the Pittsburgh Annual Conference and the Supply Pastor for several years at Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania was summoned to claim her eternal reward suddenly on Wednesday, November 28, 2007 at Moses Taylor Medical Center in Scranton, PA.
Following is the information concerning the Homegoing Celebration for Rev. Wilhelmenia Coleman:
There will be no visitation.
The celebration of life service will be held on Wednesday, December 5, 2007 at 11:00 a.m. at:
Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church
714 N. Washington Street
Scranton, PA 18509
Telephone: 570/342-1079
The Rev. Kenneth Burnett, pastor and the Rev. Dr. Eric L. Brown, Presiding Elder of the Allegheny Scranton District, Eulogist.
Condolences and Messages of sympathy can be sent to Rev. Coleman's daughter:
Ms. Clanetta Lane
204 Meridian Court
Scranton, PA 18504
Please keep the Coleman Family and Bethel, Wilkes-Barre in prayer.
Sincerely,
Dr. Eric L. Brown,
Presiding Elder, Allegheny Scranton District
22. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
We regret to inform you of the passing of Lintena M. Eddy. Sister Eddy was the sister of Rev. Herbert L. Eddy, Presiding Elder of the Boston-Hartford District, New England Conference. The following information has been provided regarding funeral arrangements.
Viewing and Funeral - Wednesday, December 5, 2007
Viewing - 10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.
Funeral - 11:00 a.m.
Bethel A.M.E. Church
819 Woodrow Street
Columbia, S.C. 29205
Phone: 803-779-0138
Fax: 803-779-7243
Officiant: The Rev. Ronnie Brailsford, pastor
Expressions of Sympathy may be sent to:
Rev. Herbert L. Eddy, Presiding Elder
1587 Bay Street
Springfield, MA 01109
Fax: 413-782-7717
Or
Mrs. Valdina Hall
113 Millwood Drive
Eastover, SC 29044
Please remember the family of Sister Lintena M. Eddy in your prayers.
23. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
Sharing with regret that Deputy Jonathan D. Wallace, 23, the son of the Rev. Patricia Wallace, pastor and founder of Harvest AME Church, Pahokee, Florida passed away in the line of duty on Wednesday, November 28, 2007. Jonathan Wallace was one of two deputies to lose their lives in the tragedy. Deputy Jonathan Wallace was engaged to be married. Deputy Wallace’s friend, Deputy Manuel, who was to be his best man, also lost his life.
Deputy Wallace was living a childhood dream of being in law enforcement. He was a very active young man both in his Church as well as his community. Please keep the Wallace Family and the Harvest Church Family in your prayers.
The Wallace Family will receive Family and Friends
Tuesday, December 4, 2007
Pahokee High School
900 Larrimore Rd
Pahokee, Florida
6-8:00 PM
Funeral Services
Wednesday, December 5, 2007
10:00 AM
The Sound Advice Amphi Theater at the
South Florida Fairgrounds
Southern Blvd, (West of I-95 East of State Rd 70)
West Palm Beach, Florida
Services for Deputy Jonathan D. Wallace are Entrusted to:
Dorsey Earl Smith Memory Gardens Funeral Home
3041 Kirk Road,
Lake Worth, Florida
(561) 964-3772
To express condolences (Guest Book) visit:
www.PalmBeachPost.com/obituaries
Or
Reverend Patricia Wallace and Brother Frank Wallace (Parents)
145 Apple Ave
Pahokee, Florida 33476
561-924-7030
Submitted by:
Marva R. Campbell,
South Conference MSA President
Eleventh Episcopal District
24. 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
25. 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.
