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 – “SOME THINGS DON’T GO RIGHT – I HAVE HAD SOME GOOD DAYS AND I HAVE HAD SOME BAD DAYS…”
Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III
On several occasions, I have heard Bishop T. Larry Kirkland sing, “I have had some good days; I have had some bad days…” The song goes on to say something like, “I have had some hills to climb and when I weigh my good days and my bad days, all of my good days outweigh my bad days; I won’t complain.”
This editorial was supposed to have been about “Change,” but a “bad day” experience doesn’t allow me to do the “Change” editorial.
I was in Columbia, South Carolina for the ground-breaking ceremony at Allen University and had written the editorial in long-hand and it was in my beautiful leather portfolio that Dr. Clement Fugh encouraged me to buy, but which I did not want. His encouragement was fueled by my wife, Rev. Charlotte, and I succumbed and bought the too-expensive portfolio. I didn’t want to purchase it, because I just thought that I would lose it. I forgot it on two occasions, and on the first occasion, Bishop William DeVeaux was kind enough to Fed-Ex it overnight to me; and on another occasion, I had to go back to where I had left it to retrieve it. At the point, I had my name engraved on the portfolio, so when I left it, someone would know to whom it belonged. And guess what? I left it in Columbia, South Carolina and the Reverend Robert China saw that it belonged to me has been kind enough to mail it to me. I am expecting it.
The problem for me is that my editorial and reference materials were left in the portfolio. I have tried for two days, without success, to duplicate my thoughts in the editorial, but have been unable to do so. That’s the “bad day” part of this experience. I have wrestled with this situation and have given up and I have decided to put the “Change” editorial in the next edition. So, even the editor has had some “bad days,” but I have also had some good days.”
Let me share a “good day” experience with you about my experience at the Allen University ground-breaking ceremony in Columbia, South Carolina.
But, before I share the “good day” I spent in the Seventh Episcopal District, where the Right Reverend Preston Warren Williams II is the presiding prelate and Dr. Wilma Delores Williams is the Episcopal Supervisor, I want to share a couple of “good days” I had in Atlanta where I attended the Evangelism Seminar and heard several of the candidates who are “running” for bishop preach dynamic sermons. I did not hear all of the invited candidates preach and there were other candidates who were not on the schedule to preach, but the sermons I heard were outstanding presentations of God’s Word.
Those days at the Seminar were “good days” because I had opportunities to converse with many of our bishops and several of my fellow general officers. It was a “good day” because I heard a great sermon by the Right Reverend T. Larry Kirkland and I heard about the superb presentation on India that was given by the Right Reverend John R. Bryant.
It is always a “good day” to be in the presence of, and to fellowship with, AMEs. It’s always a “good day” to fellowship with old and new friends from across the Connection. Dr. James Wade is the Executive Director of the Department of Church Growth and Development and the Right Reverend Preston Warren Williams II is the Commission Chair. The Right Reverend William Phillips DeVeaux was the host bishop for the Evangelism Seminar. (An article is forthcoming)
Most of the guests arrived in Columbia, South Carolina on Sunday evening (January 13, 2008). We immediately went to the Marriott Hotel in downtown Columbia, where we were served a delicious meal and welcomed by Bishop Preston Warren Williams II and Dr. Charles Young, the President of Allen University. After the dinner, we were taken to our hotel. The next morning, we were picked up by the Allen University Bus and given a tour of the University led by President Charles Young. A part of the tour included being taken to the shopping center that is being remodeled for as a cafeteria, counseling center, boutique, and student counseling center.
At the conclusion of the tour, we were taken to breakfast, which was followed by the formal portion of the ground-breaking ceremony that was held at the Bishop John Adams Gymnatorium. The program provided more “good day” ingredients. The speeches, accolades, the choir and solos were superb.
Dr. Jamye Coleman Williams, the ultimate communicator, spoke about the relevancy of Historically Black Colleges and Universities and reminded us that Allen University was the first university in America that was named for a black American, Richard Allen, the founder of the African Methodist Episcopal Church.
From the formal event, we went to the actual ground-breaking location where the new men and women’s dormitories will be constructed.
I was so impressed with Allen University, which is fully accredited. The school is relatively small, but has the air of being elite. I would not hesitate to recommend Allen University to the young men and women of my relatives and friends. Bishop Williams, President Young, and the Board of Trustees' vision for Allen University is a noble one.
The grounds were immaculate and the buildings were well-kept; the students looked and acted like college students. President Young stated repeatedly that Allen University was in the business of preparing students to be leaders in corporate and civic America. He reiterated that Allen University was in the business of training its students to be professionals. He went on to say that Allen University is not in the business of preparing students for the hip-hop culture of BET and MTV.
Bishop Williams is a master net-worker. It is evident that he knows how to make and motivate friends in “high places.” He has a gift in leadership and has excellent “people-skills” and it’s apparent that those skills are God-given.
And, let me say of all of our bishops; and I have had the opportunity to watch them up-close. They are, to a person, dedicated to the African Methodist Episcopal Church and to the work that has been assigned to them. They are concerned about ministry and about the laity of the Church. Our bishops have a difficult job because whenever they make decisions that make some individuals happy, there are an equal numbers of persons who will be unhappy.
And, I would be remiss if I failed to say that our Zion has the best general officers that can be found anywhere in any denomination.
Knowing our bishops and general officers gives me a lot of “good days.”
Well, the visit in Columbia ended with lunch on the 18th floor of the Wachovia Bank headquarters building; the lunch was sponsored by the bank. We dined and fellowshipped and Bishop Williams thanked us and bade us farewell; and it was a “good day.” God’s traveling mercies were with us and we all arrived home safely.
And, the next day, Rev. China called to tell me that I had left my portfolio in his car; and suddenly, it was a “bad day.” But, I thank God, “When I weigh my good days and my bad days; all of my good days outweigh my bad days; I won’t complain.”
Editors’ Comment: In the next issue, an editorial about “Change.” The next issue will also honor some of our AME heroes and heroines. One of the heroines, Dr. Margaret Joan Cousin, was the pioneer in HIV/AIDS testing. She had the vision long before the attention that is given to this pandemic today. She led the way and we need to say, thank you to Dr. Joan Cousin.
In a subsequent issue, I will share, “The Sins of a Presiding Elder.”
2. BIBLICAL RESOURCES-SEARCHABLE ONLINE BIBLE WEBSITES:
Here is a great resource for sermons and Bible studies. You can download any passage of the Bible from this Zondervan Website: [http://www.zondervanbiblesearch.com/ResultsPassage.aspx?Passage=mark+8%]
I have found this site to be very user friendly. You can cut and paste biblical passages into Word Documents or directly into email messages.
Another biblical resource is Bible Gateway:
[http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=language=english]
Bible Gateway can be accessed in languages other than English and has concordances and commentaries.
This Website, [http://www.internetdynamics.com/pub/vc/bibles.html] gives a list of biblical resources that might be helpful, i.e. commentaries, study Bibles, etc.
3. FOUNDER’S DAY RESOURCE:
Preparing a message for Founder’s Day? The Reverend Jeanette Pinkston shared this resource, a new book about Richard Allen authored by Richard S. Newman:
Freedom's Prophet: Bishop Richard Allen, the AME Church, and the Black Founding Fathers
Richard S. Newman. NYU, $34.95 (342p) ISBN 978-0-8147-5826-7
In this elegant and insightful biography, historian Newman (The Transformation of American Abolitionism) offers a vivid portrait of Bishop Richard Allen (1760–1831), a tireless preacher committed to ending slavery and fostering equality for blacks in post-revolutionary America. Born a slave in Philadelphia, Allen converted to Methodism when he was 17 during a revival held at his master's house. After obtaining his freedom, Allen helped to establish two of the most important black-led organizations in early America: the Free African Society, a benevolent organization, and Bethel Church, the birthplace of the African Methodist Episcopal (AME) Church, one of the most powerful African-American denominations in the United States. Although Allen is best remembered for his religious leadership, his work moved far beyond these circles. According to Newman, his ability to create independent black organizations as well as initiate a published discourse among free blacks established him as one of the nation's founding leaders. Newman's beautifully written study is not only a first-rate social history of the early Republic and African-American culture and religion, it also provides a detailed sketch of Allen that is sure to become the definitive biography of the leader.
4. BISHOP VASHTI MURPHY MCKENZIE TO PREACH THE KEYNOTE SERMON FOR THE ANNUAL MLK, JR. COMMEMORATIVE SERVICE AT EBENEZER BAPTIST CHURCH, ATLANTA, GEORGIA:
The Right Reverend Vashti Murphy McKenzie, the presiding prelate of the 13th Episcopal District of the African Methodist Episcopal Church, will be preaching the Keynote Sermon for the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Annual Commemorative Service at Ebenezer Baptist Church Horizon Sanctuary in Atlanta, Georgia on Monday, January 21 at 10 a.m. The Church is located at 407 Auburn Ave, NE, Atlanta, Georgia.
The Commemorative Service features tributes to the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. from national and international leaders.
The service, from beginning to end will be shown in the Nashville area on FOX Channel 5 beginning at 10 a.m. Also, FOX5 WAGA-TV will broadcast the service in the Atlanta area. The MLK Service might be broadcasted on C-Span as it was last year.
The Commemorative Service is open to the public, but limited seating is available in Ebenezer Baptist Church Horizon Sanctuary.
Most events of the Martin Luther King, Jr. Birthday Observance are free of charge, except where otherwise noted.
For more information about the Commemorative Service, please contact Barbara Harrison at (404) 526-8911.
5. READER RESPONSE TO EDITORIAL AND OTHER ISSUES:
- To the Editor:
RE: Editorials about the “Sins” of the pastor, the church officer, and the church member
I was wondering if your "Sins of" series will include sins of a presiding elder and sins of a bishop; just wondering if you were going to tackle those two.
I also want to thank you for keeping an objective overtone in your creation of these "sins" and that they not only provide a hearty laugh but also food for thought.
I will be referencing some of the “sins” in a workshop that I am about to do at my churches and my plan is to prayerfully come out of the meeting with Evangelism Meeting in Atlanta with tools (a strategic plan) that will help us.
We can save our churches by overcoming one "sin" at a time.
Rev. Cory M. Watts
revcorywatts@hotmail.com
Travis Chapel AME Church
745 Hutson Street
Vicksburg, MS 39183
601.636.4971
St. James AME Church
1713 Military Avenue
Vicksburg, MS 39180
- To the Editor:
RE: Watch Meeting Night Service
On our watch night service, we had people from other churches in the community who visited our Watch Night Service. We also had out-of-town visitors who worshipped with us.
We are a small church and we almost had a packed house. I was very please to see the amount of people we had at our Watch Night Service.
I have had four Watch Night Services and the attendance is growing.
Thanks for your information on the origins of the Watch Night Service. I used your article to show to my wife and some of the members to let them know what the AME Church is all about and to enhance my teaching to our officers and members.
Keep up the good work.
Pastor Jimmy
- To the Editor:
Re: Information about applying for grants to receive HD Transformers
Thank you for keeping us informed. I have submitted my request and received my confirmation number immediately.
Cassandra Favor
St. Paul- Newport News
- To the Editor:
Re: Information about applying for grants to receive HD Transformers
Thank you Dr. Sydnor and thanks to Sister Jackie for sharing this information with us.
Have a Blessed New Year---to you and your family.
Geri Cox,
SED WMS
Ass't. Secretary
- To the Editor:
RE: Video-Clip of the “Great Debaters”
Thanks
I will see this movie this weekend, thanks for the video-clip.
Terry L. Jones
- To the Editor:
I humbly recommend that we sit down with our teenage children and review this document with them. What a thoughtful way to acknowledge the birthday of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and the freedom he fought so hard to attain.
[http://eji.org/eji/files/20071017cruelandunusual.pdf]
Rev. Melvin E. Wilson
6. OPINION COLUMN- HISTORICALLY BLACK COLLEGES: SIGNIFICANCE STILL RELEVANT TODAY:
By William P. DeVeaux
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Editor’s Comment: The article was written by the Right Reverend William P. DeVeaux is in response to an Op-ED article authored by columnist Walter Williams that appeared the January 14, 2008 issue of The Atlanta-Constitution Journal. Walter E. Williams penned an article that advocates eliminating Historically Black Colleges and Universities.
++++++
Mr. Walter E. Williams closes his article, “Historically Black Colleges: Is Their Purpose Gone?” in the Monday, January 14, 2008 issue of the AJC with the question of whether historically black colleges and universities have outlived their usefulness. The answer to this question is a resounding no. If HBCUs were not available, thousands of African Americans would lose the nurturing and mentoring needed to insure their opportunity to make their stake in the world.
Professor Williams’ article is largely based on negative anecdotal personal observations and experiences of a now former professor of Stillman College, Professor Bill Maxwell. Mr. Maxwell’s account of the poor preparation and misbehavior at Stillman also exists at majority institutions, but are often viewed as incidental to their mission and continued existence.
The examples that Mr. Williams shares can be effectively addressed by communities and agencies working together. HBCUs do have resources to raise students to standards of excellence that majority schools often lack, but they are affected by all the same problems that plague majority institutions such as limited financial support and limited resources that complicate the work of any college, especially that of black colleges.
Even if the isolated personal reflections presented in Mr. Williams’ article contain seeds of truth, there are thousands willing to testify to feelings and experiences contrary to those presented by Mr. Maxwell. Since their needed inception, there have been many positive contributions made by black colleges and universities. More importantly, there are graduates of HBCUs who resolutely decide to send their children and grandchildren to black colleges. Graduates such as these believe in the value of black higher education despite their capacity to enroll their children in the school of their choice.
The reality on the campuses of many HBCUs may be daunting (poor preparation and performance). However, we cannot allow nostalgic thoughts of the HBCUs of yesterday to drive us to unwisely forsake the pressing needs of HBCUs today. Until African American young women and men are on equal footing in every aspect of American life, we need the black college.
*Bishop William P. DeVeaux is the presiding prelate of the Sixth Episcopal District and the Chairman of the Board of Morris Brown College
7. DR. ARTHUR JOPNES TO PUBLISH NEW BOOK:
Arthur S. Jones Religious Enterprises announced the publication, on Feb. 15th, 2008, of a new book by Arthur S. Jones, noted author and President/CEO of the company.
The book is titled “God and Me,” with the subtitle, “A Black Preacher Talks With The Almighty-One-On-One.”
A.S.J. Religious Enterprises has recently published two other books by Dr. Jones, “The Birds, The Bees, And The A.M.E.S.,” a humorous look at life in the African Methodist Episcopal Church; and “500 Golden Proverbs,” a compilation of sayings from his 50-year career as a pastor in the A.M.E. Church.
The new book will be offered for sale at the retail price of $18. In a statement, the author states: “Some will find this book provocative, perhaps even controversial. The format is a dialogue between God and me. However, I am convinced that those who read it, both clergy and laypersons, will find it enjoyable, inspirational, and compelling.”
For information and purchasing, interested persons may use the information on this letterhead. Also: [www.jonesreligiousenterprises.org]
8. THE PASSING OF MOTHER CATHERINE PELONOMI MAKHENE, PRESIDENT OF THE WOMEN'S MISSIONARY SOCIETY IN THE PAST QUADRENNIAL:
Three days into the New Year, sadly, I notify you about the passing on of Mother Catherine Pelonomi Makhene.
At the time of passing away, she was hospitalized since Tuesday after a long spat of ill health. Funeral details are yet to follow.
Mother Makhene lived her life for the Lord and the people of God. She served the African Methodist Episcopal Church with diligence and dedication in various capacities, particularly as the President of the Women's Missionary Society in the past Quadrennial. She was a partner in mission to the late Rev. Dr. Andrew W.M. Makhene, with whom she dared to minister where many would not. Together, they ministered to men and women incarcerated in correctional services and their families, contributing to their rehabilitation and preparation for reintegration into their families, churches and communities.
What a mother she was! She was a teacher and preacher, counselor and comforter, a psalmist who dared praising God through service to people and a mentor to those ushered to know Christ as Lord and Saviour.
Uphold her family into your prayers as they make the preparations to lay her down to rest.
The funeral was held on 11 January 2008 at 09H00 at St Peter AME Church, Sharpeville. The burial was at Vanderbijlpark Cemetery.
Ms Mmannini Mahloko
Mmannini@emfuleni.gov.za
9. "IT'S PRAYING TIME: IT'S TIME TO RENEW OUR PRAYER LIFE."
By: Brother Kelvin J. Anthony
Editor’s Note: Brother Kelvin J. Anthony is 16-years-old!
After reading the newspaper on yesterday, I saw Satan at his work. Satan used two of his disciples to burn down 4 churches in Alabama. One of them was an A.M.E Church by the name of Greater Peace and Goodwill A.M.E. Church, Phenix City, Alabama. As I finished the article, the Lord spoke to me and gave me a word to say to the African Methodist Episcopal Church. In this article, I would like to stress the need of prayer in our lives and in the New Year.
In this society and in the world in which we live in, many times you see that society itself has become alienated from itself. This is true in regards of helping our neighbors, helping mankind, seeking about one another and most importantly, praying for each other. Since the beginning of time, prayer has been the building block, the fabric that is woven to hold our society together. For example, let us look at Moses, and how he prayed unto God, and allowed God to use him, and with God's direction, led the children of Israel out of Bondage. This once great country in which we live in was built on the very basis and foundation of prayer. But nowadays, prayers in our society have taken a back seat to the other ways of the world.
Isn't it amazing how when it comes to certain issues, it almost seems that the ones that involve in the church, how the minority of the individuals involved can change things? Look at this for a minute or two, it takes a minority of people to elect the president, but it takes only a few to eliminate prayer in schools. And since this elimination of prayer in the schools, there has been nothing but hell and chaos in school.
Children are fighting on a more regular basis, children killing each other, children talking back to their parents and teachers, and children having children. My brothers and sisters, the fact of the matter is that it is praying time and we need to renew our prayer life. I have come to realization that the reason we do not know what is that we are trying to do. Many people do not know that God is there to help us through the rough times in our lives. Some people do not know what prayer is or how it works. You would be surprised at the number of individuals who would tell you that they do not know how to pray or what to pray for.
It is not disturbing in this present day and time, because our society is growing at such an alarming rate, and is trying new things, but is failing at keeping in time with what brought us over. Prayer has always been a way out for those who believed in Christ. If we can just serve notice for a little while, we will see that God sustain his people then, and he will continue to sustain us now, we just got to be willing to hold on.
Prayer was a way out for Daniel in the lion's den, Thee Hebrew boys in the fiery furnace, Paul and Silas in jail, Jonah in the belly of a whale, Black people in the midst of slavery and the civil rights movement. How quickly we have forgotten “the bridge that has brought us over.” My brothers and sisters in Christ, prayer is simply being able to communicate with the Lord. We must acknowledge Him for being the “King of Kings” and the “Lord of Lords.”
You see when it comes to prayer, we need to make this a personal situation because every since the first garden experience, it is up to each one of us to decide who are living for. It is time to pray and renew our prayer life. I believe in order for us to really see the goodness of the Lord as a world and nation, we have to be willing and pray.
The bible tells us that "if my people who are called by my name shall humble themselves and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and heal their sins, and forgive their land."
We got to clean up our hearts, our minds, and our souls before we really can talk with him, because we know he does not dwell in unclean places. Moses tells us that we must love the Lord with all our hearts, all our souls, and with all our might. I tell you today, that when the winds of change start to blow in our life, and the times seem to get really hard; we need to get down on our knees and pray.
When life deals you with an unexpected blow, and it hit you with a set back, I want you to know that it's time to pray. When you are faced with trying to find the answer to your problems that you're having with your children, it seems as if they are caught in the pitfall after pitfall; it is still Praying Time!
When you go to the doctor, and he tells you that you have to be concerned about how you are healed now, because you have deficiencies in your health now, it is still Praying Time! When you go the work on your job, and the supervisor tells you, we have to be concerned now, the economy is in such a mess now, we have the war in Iraq, gas and oil prices are constantly going through the roofs, all other input prices are high, and people don't have disposable income anymore to purchase our products, but It's still praying time.
You see, I am 16 years old and I know what prayer can do, and I am a living witness that God will answer prayers. I read the other day about Hezekiah who was sick and on the verge of death, but the bible tells me that he turned his faced to the wall and prayed, and because of his prayer, the Lord added 15 years to his life.
In conclusion, let us renew our prayer lives and let us start fresh anew.
For any comments, please send them to kjanthony91@yahoo.com.
Brother Kelvin J. Anthony, Associate Minister, Ward Chapel A.M.E. Church, Bessemer, Alabama
10. LET US PRAY ۰۰۰:
Rev. Dr. Cecelia Williams Bryant
In 2008 the African Methodist Episcopal Church has an opportunity for Apostolic Regeneration. That we have been both called and sent to “the nations” is a Biblical truth as well as a historical necessity. In this hour, we must prepare ourselves as the “Bride” for the coming of the “Bridegroom”! Prayer is the pathway to full manifestation. As a Trinitarian Covenant Community, we must be open to a “timely” move of GOD in our Zion.
A move that awakens us, chastises us, transforms us, equips us and liberates us to our prophetic purpose! The “works of the devil” are manifold —— within and without, local and global, intergenerational, unique and ubiquitous. On our knees before the LORD, we shall triumph over them all! “Call unto me, and I will answer thee, and shew her great and mighty things, which thou knowest not... (Jeremiah 33:3)
On one accord in Prayer, we can exercise “dominion” over St Louis —— moving, dismantling and purging the atmosphere of everything that offends the Kingdom of GOD. We can prepare the ground for an infinite Revelation of GOD that ignites the fires of Holiness in the African Methodist Episcopal Church for 7 generations to come. We can hear God’s word from a fresh and repentant understanding. And our GOD will renew our Faith. “Evening and morning, and at noon, will I pray, and cry aloud: and he shall hear my voice.” (Psalm 55:17)
Wisdom requires that we act now! Let those members of each Episcopal District who feel called/compelled/urged to do so, move in Prayer on the Day of the Month that reflects your assignment.
In other words, those in the Fifth District on the 5th day of the month and those in the Nineteenth District on the 19th day of the month and so forth.
21st - All constituencies of the Ecumenical Office.
22nd - All constituencies of HIGHER EDUCATION.
23rd - Women’s Missionary Society.
24th - Y.P.D., R.A.Y.A.C., Sons of Allen.
25th - Connectional Council.
26th - CONN-M-SWAWO
27th - A.M.E. WIM
28TH - Health Commission
29th - Christian Education Constituencies
30th - Lay Organization
31st - Because of our expansive presence, Organizations, Agencies, Commissions not indicated should assign themselves to this date.
On your Day of Prayer be open to the leading of the LORD because the scriptures say, “we do not know what to pray for.”
With this in mind, be sensitive to three aspects —— Repentance, Intercession and Thanksgiving.
Repentance
Repent for the sins of the church.
Repent for the sins of the nations.
Repent for Cultural, Political and Personal sin.
Intercession
- Touch the heart of GOD for Christians in the Holy Land and persecuted Christians around the world.
- Those suffering in the Sudan, Haiti, Afghanistan, Iraq, Guyana, Cuba, North Korea, Eastern Europe and all areas of strife and desperation.
- Those infected with or affected by HIV AIDS.
- Those living as Refugees.
- Those living in Poverty.
- Those that have lost or left the Faith.
- Missionaries serving around the world.
- The mentally ill and those who live with them/care for them.
- The Gospel of Jesus Christ to overtake your city.
- The Power of God to Reign and be manifest at the General Conference of the A.M.E. Church 2008.
- Allow God to show you other areas of Intercession.
Thanksgiving
On your Day of Prayer, do not petition God for yourself or your loved ones. Rather spend significant time giving thanks--for the Beauty of the Earth, the POWER of the Gospel, the Compassion of Calvary and the HOPE of the Resurrection!
“Pray without Ceasing”
And we can be used by God to bring Apostolic Regeneration to the A.M.E. Church. There are so many people groups languishing for such HOPE as the Gospel provides. In deed there are too many African and Diasporic families that await our witness—— the hip-hop generation and their children, young men under 30, the affluent and the professional, the urban poor and the Arts Community.
Are we distracted, apathetic, bitter, frustrated, cynical, discouraged, and ambitious? Repentance has the POWER to take us beyond the mind that we have that we might see the Glory of GOD shining upon the African Methodist Episcopal Church.
“Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that you may be healed ۰۰۰” (James 5:16)
11. AME-INDIA - REPORT FOR DECEMBER 2007:
*The Reverends Sarah and Abraham Peddinny
Looking back, we thank God for all the marvelous things that God has done. Prominent of those is the AME-India convocation in the month of November 2007. Indeed God is great and good. All glory be to God!
Christmas season is a time of joy and happiness for Christians around the world. But unfortunately this was not so for the Christian of Kandhamal district of the State of Orissa, situation in the South Eastern part of India. On 25th and 26th December when the Christians had gathered in the church for worship, the Hindu Fascist groups attacked the churches, trampled on the food prepared for the consumption, broke the furniture's, desecrated the church premises, beat up the worshippers and chased them away. Later the churches and the houses of the Christians were set on fire. The anti-social elements indiscriminately fired from country made pistols and killed three Christians. Hundreds are still missing. The bureaucrats and the politicians have turned a blind eye to the issue. Those politicians who expressed sympathy were with a hidden motive to get political mileage out of it. The National Church bodies and other Social Activists raised their voice against this and forced the government to look into the matter. We request you to pray for peace in this troubled region and especially for peace to those who have lost their dear ones and their properties. Please also pray that even in times of trial they would stand firm in their faith.
Pastor Peter Morris informs us that a total of 10 people were baptized on two different occasions and two different places, as a result of the ministry of the church. Srividya, Nancy, Panjalai, Malliga, Chinnappon, Magalakshmi were baptized on 12th December 2007 and Thanam, Chitra, Anjalai a.k.a. Valliammal and Thosam were baptized on 25th December 2007. Pastor Morris requests prayers for these new disciples to grow in their faith and stand firm in times of trials and temptations.
Pastor Saurabha Beborta of Orissa informs that a man named Naga Limma who was possessed by evil spirit was suffering a lot. He had taken up his residence in the graveyard. The people of the village, mostly non-Christians, brought him to the church to be prayed over. Pastor Beborta and the church interceded for the man and chased out the spirit in the name of Jesus. Now the person is sober and contained and he comes to the church. Please do pray for his salvation and spiritual growth.
Pastor Dibyajyothi Limma very specially requests for prayers because he is facing severe opposition and threats from the fascist Hindu movements to his life and ministry. Please pray for God's protection upon him.
Elder Samuel Ramachandran informs that he has started two new house fellowships at Vanagiri and Chinnanurpetai. They are meeting everyday for worship. At Vanagiri 25 people gather and at Chinnanurpetai 30 people gather for worship. He informs that there is a great potential to strengthen the YPD in these two churches. A Hindu boy, who was suffering from severe pain in the back due to some trouble in the back bone, had no respite even after having all forms of treatment, came to the church and was prayed for. He has experienced God's healing and saving power in his life. He has accepted Jesus as his personal savior and is now regularly coming to the church. Please pray for his spiritual nurture.
Rev. Sampat Samuel from Ambattur reports that a lady named Latha, who was constantly abused by her husband, came to the pastor and prayed over. In three days time God touched her husband and now they are living for the Lord. Another man named Damu, a Hindu who did not have any issues despite having been married for seven years. All medical intervention had failed. Rev. Samuel and his wife fasted and prayed for Mr. and Mrs. Damu. God has heard their prayers and blessed the couple with a child. They have put their trust in Jesus and embraced the salvation offered by him. Kindly pray for their spiritual nurture.
We request you to kindly pray for Rev. Khrist Pal Rai, pastor of the Nepali church, his whole family is down with sickness and they do not have a place to stay. The house where they lived before collapsed partially, so they were asked to vacate the premises and their security deposit was not returned to them. They are undergoing a lot of struggles due to lack of financial resources. Kindly pray for them, that God would meet their needs out of God's riches in glory.
Bereavement
Mother of Elder Joshua Vijayamani, Mrs. Nagomi went to be with the Lord at the age of 88 on the 11th January 2008. Please remember the bereaved children and their family members.
A Report on the Developmental Work of AME-India:
We praise God for all that is been happening here. We feel very privileged to work under the leadership of Bishop John R. Bryant and Rev. Dr. Cecelia W. Bryant. We thank God for their love and commitment to India and the ministry of AME here in this country. With their encouragement we have been able to carry on what they initiated at the AME-India convocation. Their support to us has been marvelous. Since the convocation our hands have been fuller than ever before. The demand of work on us has been more than we could handle. So we had been praying to God for an honest, trustworthy and committed person to help us in our efforts.
As a result of our prayer God sent Rev. Darryl Michel Taylor who has recently been ordained as an elder during the AME-India convocation. He is a trained resource person by the Government of India in the field of rural development work. He is also theologically educated with two Bachelor degrees to his credit. He has also served as a Pastor for 15 years. But now he is an AME. We praise God for his commitment to AME-India and its ministry here. We have assigned the Department of Community Transformation to his care so that we can devote more time to our Pastors and the spiritual nourishment of our members, apart from the administration work that we are already involved in.
The need for community development has been strongly felt by the AME-India, hence after the convocation a Department of Community Transformation was created, with the offering and money left behind for developmental work. We have initiated three types of programmes for the rural women; they are formation of Self Help Groups, Savings and Thrift Schemes and Micro-Finance Programme. The reason for targeting the rural women is because economically they are crippled and are dependent on the male members of the family for everything. Although they have dreams and desires, they live in a hopeless situation. Therefore to aid, in bringing about economic emancipation for these women, means development of the whole family. This in turn will cater to the development the church and the society at large.
The following work has been done since the AME-India convocation
A Self Help Group has been started with 15 women at North Bharathiyar Nagar, Ennore, Chennai. Here the women meet once a week and plan their activity and they save Rs.65.00 (US$ 1.67) per month per person.
A Self Help Group has been started at Vishalatchmipuram, Ennore, Chennai with fifteen women. They meet once a week to plan their activity and they save Rs.65.00 (US$ 1.67) per month per person.
A Self Help Group has been started at NGGO Nagar, Chengalpet with twelve women. They meet once a week and plan their activity and they save Rs.65.00 (US$ 1.67) per month per person.
The need to start a bank was introduced by Rev. Cecelia Bryant, hence a Savings and Thrift Society has been started by the AME-India. The receiving authorities for this society are Rev. Minnie Sarah and Rev. Abraham Peddiny. Women are encouraged to save Rs.5.00 per day. A constitution for the same has been drawn up. At present we have 18women enrolled in this saving scheme from Chengalpet and 7 women from Ambathur. There is a plan to mobilize more women during the coming months to join the Savings and Thrift Society.
The following women have been identified for a micro-finance programme to stabilize their family income:
Vanitha: has been helped with a micro finance loan to develop her breakfast shop which will enable her to earn about Rs.60.00 (US$ 1.54) per day.
Padma: has been helped to start a breakfast shop through a micro finance loan so that she can earn about Rs.60.00 (US$ 1.54) per day.
Kanaga: has been helped to develop her petty shop through a micro finance loan so that she can earn about Rs.80.00 (US$ 2.1) per day.
Jebamala: has been helped with a micro finance loan to buy fowls so that she can sell eggs and earn about Rs.40.00 (US$1.00) per day.
Shanti and Sisters: these differently-abled sisters have been helped to start an ironing shop through a micro finance loan, so that they can earn Rs.60.00 (US$1.54) per day.
Laxmi: a Hindu convert has been helped to start a breakfast shop through a micro finance loan so that she can earn about Rs.60.00 (US$ 1.54) per day.
We pray and look forward to God to use us in changing the lives of people, both spiritually and socially. Kindly uphold us in your prayers and especially for Rev. Darryl Taylor as he gives leadership in this field.
*The Reverends Sarah and Abraham Peddinny are AME Presiding Elders in India.
12. AME CHURCH SPONSORS A BILLBOARD CAMPAIGN THAT SAYS, "IT'S OKAY TO SNITCH!":
Baber African Methodist Episcopal Church is sponsoring a billboard campaign in Rochester. The billboards read "You Bet I Told" and encourage people who witness a crime to talk to police. The Reverend Marlowe VN Washington is the pastor of Baber AME Church.
The message will also be on buses and bus shelters. Some City Officials say the campaign should be reinforced with a city sponsored better witness protection program.
Church officials say their campaign will include improving the Witness Protection Program.
Editor’s Comment: Kudos to Baber AME Church, its pastor, officers and members for taking a stand and reaching out to the community.
13. SOUTH BIRMINGHAM-HUNTSVILLE DISTRICT OF THE AME CHURCH SURO HEALTH INITIATIVE PROGRAM KICKS OFF THE STROKE PREVENTION PROJECT:
The South Birmingham-Huntsville District of the AME Church SURO Health Initiative Program kicks off the Stroke Prevention Project, Sunday, January 13, 2008 2 pm at Mt. Zion AME Church located at 506 Pineview Road Trussville, Alabama 35173.
The SURO (Step Up Reach Out) Health Initiative, in addition with the Stroke Prevention Project is aim to help you take steps toward managing your day-to-day lifestyle through nutrition, physical activities, and lower your risks for stroke. Step up and Reach out to friends and family to come with you to meet our sponsors, and partners participating in the SURO Challenge. Goodies (while supplies last), sign up sheets for individuals, groups and church communities of the district to win prizes, and much more will be available! For more information, contact the church office 205-655-9436 or district office 205-785-2727.
Partners/Sponsors attending:
- Magic City Stroke Project
- Alabama Cooperative Extension Systems
- Congregations for Public Health
- Baptist Medical Systems
- Birmingham Black Nurses Association
Submitted by Thomasine S. Jackson
tclark@drummondco.com
14. MEMPHIS THEOLOGICAL SEMINARY ANNOUNCES 2008 BLACK HISTORY MONTH LECTURE FEATURING DR. JAMES H. CONE:
Wednesday, February 6, at 7:00pm, renowned Black Theologian Dr. James H. Cone will deliver the 2008 Black History Month Lecture of Memphis Theological Seminary.
Dr. Cone's lecture entitled, "The Vocation of a Theologian," is free and open to the public. Mississippi Boulevard Christian Church has graciously agreed to host the event in order to accommodate members of the community and surrounding communities who wish to attend. Anyone with an interest in theology, social justice, and the intersection of the two should plan to attend.
Dr. James H. Cone is the Charles A. Briggs Distinguished Professor of Systematic Theology at Union Theological Seminary in the City of New York. He is an ordained minister in the African Methodist Episcopal Church. He has received awards too numerous to list here, but is best known for his ground-breaking works, Black Theology & Black Power (1969) and A Black Theology of Liberation (1970). He is also author the highly acclaimed Martin & Malcolm & America: A Dream or a Nightmare.
Dr. Cone is an active scholar and church leader who speaks and lectures to audiences throughout the world. His work for racial justice and liberation within and among churches is highly touted throughout religious and academic circles.
He has deep roots in the mid-south, growing up in Little Rock, Arkansas, where he began his higher education at Philander Smith College. He has several connections to both academic and church leadership in the Memphis area. Those who know him know to expect an engaging discussion about the prophetic role of the Church in today's society.
Memphis Theological Seminary is located at 168 East Parkway South, Memphis, TN 38104
Submitted by Rhonda McCarty,
Communications Coordinator
901/334-5841 or rmccarty@memphisseminary.edu
www.memphisseminary.edu
15. THE FIRST QUARTERLY CONFERENCE AT SAINT PETER AFRICAN METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH IN CLARKSVILLE TENNESSEE TAKES CARE OF BUSINESS:
On Sunday, January 6, 2008, the congregation of St. Peter African Methodist Episcopal Church began the new calendar year with a spirit filled worship service.
The Reverend Dennis D. Lawson, I, serves as pastor. He is assisted by the Reverends Earl Long and Patricia Galbreath Carter, and Brother Damian A. Jefferson.
The music for the service was provided by the Senior Choir and Male Chorus. They were accompanied by Brother Shedrick Hoosier, Jr. and Sister Ella Belle Couch. The opening began with “Have a Little Talk with Jesus”, which was a great way to begin the New Year.
The Reverend Robert E. Keesee, Presiding Elder of the North Nashville District, Tennessee Annual Conference, 13th Episcopal District of the African Methodist Episcopal Church delivered a powerful and thought provoking message.
The scripture references were Isaiah 40:28-31 and 27 Psalm 14 with focus on Isaiah 40:31 “But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles, they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk and not faint”. He used for a theme, “A Simple Resolution”. He explained that this was a suggestion for those of us making a New Year’s Resolution.
The Reverend Keesee concluded his message with four points: trust God and renew your strength; mount up with wings and you will receive strength to fly when you don’t feel like it; run and not be weary because God will be your strength; and walk and not faint and trust in the Lord.
The quarterly conference began shortly after the close of the morning service. Sister Yolanda Yancey was elected to serve as secretary. The following persons constituted the Memorial Committee: Brother Shedrick Hoosier, Jr., Brother Anthony D. Shanklin, Sister Emma P. Webb and Brother Miller Anglin. Sister Mary Falls Scott was elected reporter. The church finance committee was used as the finance committee.
Following organization, the disciplinary questions were asked. Brother Eugene Thomas Claude sought to become licensed as a Lay Minister/Exhorter. The Quarterly Conference voted unanimously to license Bro. Claude. Brother Damian Antoine Jefferson, a licensed Exhorter, was granted a renewal of his License. The Quarterly Conference was also informed that Brother Jefferson’s path of study would be changed to that of itinerancy.
The Memorial Committee reported four deaths for 2007 as follows:
1. Brother Wilfred Samuel Scott
2. Sister Waff Lee Phillips
3. Brother Beatrix J. “B.J” Metcalfe
4. Sister Ida Belle Miles
“To God Be the Glory” Hymn # 21 was used in the memorial tribute. Brother Shedrick Hoosier, Jr. gave brief remarks about the life of each of the deceased.
The Revered Robert E. Keesee thanked the Pastor and members for their support in the past and related calendar of events in the 13th Episcopal District and Connectional Church through March 2008.
The meeting was adjourned with the Mizpah.
Mrs. Mary Falls Scott, Reporter
The Reverend Dennis D. Lawson, I, Pastor
16. THE LONG VIEW- A NEW YEAR, A NEW BEGINNING:
Arthur S. Jones
Those who never take the opportunity to view a sunrise miss a rare sight.
Daybreak brings: bewitching colors; the silent fading away of the night; the slow brightening of the sky; the magic, the mystery, the miracle of a daily divine ritual!
Daybreak brings: a hope - optimism, that, somehow, whatever yesterday’s experiences might have been; the new day can be better.
One could say the same about the dawning of a new year. January 1 is not just another date on the calendar. It is qualitatively different from all others. Something special happens. One cannot make that brief crossing into a new year without feeling that a change has taken place. The seconds between 11:59 p.m. and 12 midnight is a bridge by which we pass from a past we know to a future we do not know.
It is up to every individual to determine whether the new year of 2008 represented merely a new year, or a new beginning.
We can only make it a new beginning if, with God’s help, we put aside the ungodly, unworthy things in which we indulged in the old year and earnestly, honestly seek to lead a better life.
In the movie musical “Scrooge,” based on Dickens’ immortal story, “A Christmas Carol,” Scrooge closes the film with a song, the words of which carry deep spiritual meaning.
After having his sinful, mean and stingy self revealed to him in three dreams, he decides that, although he can do nothing to change his sins of the past, he can reach for a better tomorrow. He sings:
“I will take the time I have left to live,
I will give it all I have left to give,
I will live my days for my fellow men
On a note of hope and a strong ‘Amen’,
And I’ll thank my God for the moment
When I was able to begin again!”
To begin again, is the heart and soul of the Christian message. It is why Jesus died. In doing so, he created the lively possibility: we can all have a new beginning.”
17. FROM THE HEART OF PASTOR CAREY A. GRADY:
The voters and the political pundits have successfully and unsuccessfully used data to prophesy the outcome of the Democratic and Republican Primaries and ultimately the outcome of the American Presidency. What appeared to be reality and political musings of wisdom turned out to be false hope and political innuendo. Senator Barack Obama and Gov. Mike Huckabee did not win in New Hampshire and Senator Hilary Clinton and Senator John McCain are comeback kids. I must admit it’s easy to get lost and consumed in the electronic and news media hype of the primary elections. I can remember when only three stations had the ins and outs of the political state of America, CBS, NBC and ABC. Now we have at least six including Fox, CNN and MSNBC without including the other cable networks or satellite networks that also have unique and significant coverage. It’s amazing to me that Politics, Entertainment and Sports have become the Post-Modern gods and institutions like the Synagogue, Church and Mosque couldn’t get this type of media frenzy unless there is a religious scandal, some sort of fall from grace dealing with finances or sex with a religious leader.
I wonder what would happen if the media would report and make a fuss over synagogues, churches and mosques that have educational after-school programs, successful homeless ministries, empowering parenting Classes, inspirational drug-prevention programs, liberating domestic violence training and interventions and GED classes that have a significant impact in the equipping of people to make the quality of there lives better.
This year’s candidates offer lots of excitement and hope to the future of our nation and world. It’s is exciting to see a woman and person of color considered for the highest office of the land with an expectation and hint of success. It’s also exciting to see political parties re-organizing and building new platforms through fresh voices on the political scene. But through it all I think we get a little jaded and unfocused. The only comforting thing about the hustle and bustle of campaigning is that candidates have to use what Jesus was all about in an effort to sell themselves to the American people. Jesus was relational. And that is ultimately how we should interact with each other.
This time of the year we will see candidates espousing great oratory filled with moving stories, about average Americans and there struggle for things like healthcare, housing and fair and equal employment. In order for the candidates to tell those stories, ethos (competence), pathos (emotion), and logos (reason) are needed. Yet, I wonder are those unique relational and oratory skills just going to be used to help solidify the goal, the American Presidency or will this compassion continue to boil over until all people are treated as human beings created in the image and likeness of the unseen God.
The Gospel of Mark 8:35-37 records, 35 For whoever desires to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake and the gospel’s will save it. 36 For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world, and loses his own soul? 37 Or what will a man give in exchange for his soul?
I believe God calls and ordains people to be the voice of others through the institution of politics and government, just as God calls some to be preachers, teachers, artist, entertainers, police officers, doctors or lawyers. Yet, I wonder if our candidates will keep the needs of the people at the center of there platforms and agendas after the elections.
As we move about our busy week and action packed lives let’s not forget to “Seek ye first the Kingdom of God. Let’s seek God’s face in every facet of our lives. I can admit that that’s easier said than done, but through the help of the Holy Spirit and moments of reflection we can make sense out of all that comes our way. Last night, while watching the election returns, I found myself pausing the TV and saying a prayer. In that moment, all of the tensions that I had bottled up inside of me were handed over to God. While I was praying, I reflected on all that has transpired since the top of the week. In that simple moment I was freed.
Continue to watch the news and go about your day but look to the hills from whence cometh our help and seek ye see ye first the Kingdom of God and God’s Righteousness. I guarantee that as we seek ye first the Kingdom of God, the Kingdoms of this world will not consume us.
Pastor Carey A. Grady
18. THE DALLAS WEEKLY ANNOUNCED THAT DR. VONCIEL JONES HILL WAS ONE THE TOP 25 PERSONS IN THE DALLAS AREA TO WATCH:
Vonciel Jones Hill was elected to the Dallas City Council District 5 last year. But she's no stranger around town, having served as a municipal court judge, assistant city attorney and Dallas County district court administrator. She has received degrees from UT, Atlanta University, Rice University and SMU. She also received the Doctor of Humane Letters (Ph.D. Honorary) from Paul Quinn College.
Dr. Hill’s service is extensive, from serving on the Board of Trustees for Paul Quinn and as senior pastor of Mt. Zion African Methodist Episcopal Church to assistant and associate pastor of St. Luke “Community” United Methodist Church.
Dr. Hill also serves on the advisory board for Mothers Against Teen Violence.
The article said, “Councilmember Hill is exciting to watch in action. She knows who she is and whose she is; so you can expect her to make a big difference during her term.”
19. UPDATED INFORMATION REGARDING THE 10TH EPISCOPAL DISTRICT 2008 FOUNDERS DAY:
February 13–14, 2008: Leadership Institute
February 15-16, 2008: Founder’s Day
The Richardson Hotel: A Completely Non-Smoking Facility
701 E. Campbell Road, Richardson, Texas
Hotel Reservations: 972-231-9600
Deadline for reservations; January 18, 2008 Cost per night – $115.00
Host Church: St. Paul-Dallas and Smith Chapel
Host Pastors: Rev. Juan Tolliver and Rev. Darrel G. Caldwell
Jackie Ross-Roy
Assistant to the Bishop
20. EPISCOPAL AND CLERGY FAMILY CONGRATULATORY NOTICES:
- Asha Zakiya Ivey received a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from the University of Michigan and was hooded at the December 16, 2007 graduation.
Dr. Ivey previously received her Master's degree in Clinical Psychology from the University of Michigan and her Bachelor of Arts Degree in Psychology from Spelman College. Presently, she is doing postdoctoral work at Emory University and Grady Hospital in Atlanta, Georgia. While in Michigan she attended Bethel AME Church in Ann Arbor.
Asha is the daughter of the Reverend Ronald L. Ivey, pastor of St. Matthews AME Church in Bronx, New York and First Lady Cynthia L. Ivey, President of the New York Conference Ministers Spouses and Member-At-Large of the NYC Women's Missionary Society.
Congratulatory Expressions may be sent to: [belovedcommunity@msn.com]
- On December 17, 2007, our family welcomed a brand new baby boy! He has been named Zayd Yahkisizwe Olokun Akinyela, he is the second grandson of THE Rev. Makungu and Chinganji Akinyela and great-grand son of Bishop Carolyn Tyler Guidry. We thank God that life goes on!
Congratulatory messages can be sent to: [girlbishop122@aol.com]
- Ashlee Nicole Brown graduated from Tennessee State University, Cum Laude, with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Biology and a minor in Chemistry on December 15, 2007.
Ashlee is the past Connectional YPD Chairperson for Campus Ministries and the 2003 winning recipient of the CONN-M-SWAWO+PK'S Scholarship Award.
She is the daughter of Rev. Randy Brown, the pastor of Ebenezer A.M.E. Church in Clarksville, Tennessee and Genia Brown the President of the Tennessee Conference Minister's Spouses and Treasurer of the WMS.
Congratulatory messages can be sent to: abrown511@hotmail.com
21. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
With regret we announce the passing of the Reverend Willie Earl Webster, a local Elder at Canaan A.M.E. Church, Columbia, Tennessee. Reverend Webster was brother of the Reverend Leland Webster, pastor of Wayman Chapel AME Church, Columbia, Tennessee; and uncle of the Reverend Terrance Mayes, Sr., Pastor of Warren Chapel AME Church, Chattanooga, Tennessee, and the Reverend Keith R. Mayes, Sr., Pastor of Allen Chapel AME Church, Murfreesboro, Tennessee.
Service arrangements for Reverend Willie Earl Webster:
Friday, January 4, 2008
Family Visitation: 7:00 PM- 9:00 PM
Roundtree, Napier and Ogilvie's Funeral Home
919 E. 8th Street
Columbia, Tennessee 38401
(931) 379-3977
Reverend Pamela C. Miller, Pastor, Canaan AME Church
Saturday, January 5, 2008
Visitation: 12:00 NOON
Homegoing Celebration: 1:00 PM
Wayman Chapel AME Church
105 South Jackson Street
Columbia, Tennessee 38401
(931) 381-7705
Reverend Leland Webster, Pastor
Condolences may be sent to:
Mrs. Hattie Webster and Family
609 Canaan Road
Columbia, Tennessee 38401
(931) 379-5109
Please lift up the family, church and community in your prayers.
22. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
Sharing with deep regret, news of the passing of The Reverend William Marshall Jacks, former Presiding Elder of the Los Angeles District, Southern California Conference - 5th Episcopal District and former Pastor of St. Paul A.M.E. Church, San Bernardino, CA.
The funeral has been held
Condolences can be sent to his beloved daughter:
Wilma Sayles
2384 Marigold Street
San Bernardino, CA 92407
23. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
Sharing with regret news of the passing of The Reverend Stanley Harris, former pastor in the 5th Episcopal District on Thursday, January 3, 2008.
The funeral has been held
Condolences may be sent to:
Mrs. Debra Harris
2222 West 75th Street
Los Angeles, CA. 90043
(323) 753-8051
Please remember Sister Debra Harris and the family in your prayers.
24. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
We regret to inform you of the passing of Mrs. Betty Lue Primas, who passed away on Saturday, January 5, 2008. She was the sister of Rev. Esther L. Seales, Pastor of Bethlehem AME Church in Langhorne, PA (Philadelphia Conference, Philadelphia District).
The funeral has been held
Expressions of Sympathy may be sent to:
Rev. Esther L. Seales
7717 Lucretia Mott Way
Elkins Park, PA 19027
Or
M. C. Smith Funeral Home
117 Gilmore Street
Sandersville, Georgia 31082
Phone: 478-552-2591
Fax: 478-552-0788
25. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
Sadly announcing the passing of my aunt, Mrs. Rosalind Betty Marie Christopher. She is the wife of the Rev. Ronald A. Christopher, who retired from pastoring in the 11th Episcopal District, Tampa Conference. His Last pastorate was at Zion Hill AME Church Tampa, FL.
The funeral has been held
Condolences can be sent to:
The Rev. Ronald A. Christopher & Family
c/o D. H. Augustus Funeral Home
Brunswick and Elliott Street
Hamilton, Bermuda
1-441-292-5251 (Phone)
1-441-295-5285 (Fax)
26. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
We regret to inform you of the passing of Rev. Lloyd C. Wilson, Sr., who passed away on Wednesday, January 9, 2008. Rev. Wilson was a retired pastor in the First Episcopal District and the former pastor of Wesley AME Church in Swarthmore, PA (Philadelphia Conference, South District).
The funeral has been held
Expressions of Sympathy may be sent to:
Mrs. Carol H. Wilson
c/o William T. Lipscomb, Jr.
4925 Market Street
Philadelphia, PA 19139-3503
Fax: 215-476-3876
e-mail: wtlipscombjr@msn.com
27. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
Sharing with regret news of the passing of Mrs. Johnnie Mae Anderson, the mother of Mrs. Linda Faye Grizzard and the mother-in-law of Reverend Chris Grizzard, Pastor of St. Paul A.M.E. Church - Fayetteville, TN (East Tennessee Conference, 13th Episcopal District).
The funeral has been held
Expressions of sympathy may be sent to:
Rev. and Mrs. (Linda) Chris Grizzard
285 Campbell Lane
Lynchburg, TN 37352
(931) 759-4423 (Phone)
Or to:
Rev. & Mrs. Chris Grizzard
St. Paul A.M.E. Church
521 W. College Street
Fayetteville, TN 37334
(931) 433-0675 (Phone)
28. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
With regret we share news of the passing of The Reverend Donald L. Cowley, Pastor of Whites Chapel AME Church in Memphis, TN (West Tennessee Conference, 13th Episcopal District).
Homegoing Celebration Arrangements for the Rev. Donald L. Cowley:
Wake/Visitation
Thursday, January 17, 2008
6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Whites Chapel AME Church
1712 Fields Road
Memphis, TN 38109
(901) 785-0078
Rev. Cetrea Jimerson, Associate Minister
Friday, January 18, 2008
10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. (Visitation)
11:00 a.m. (Funeral Service)
New Tyler AME Church
3300 Summer Avenue
Memphis, TN 38122
(901) 323-9371 (Phone)
(901) 323-4316 (Fax)
Rev. Charlene Boone-Hinson, Host Pastor
Presiding Elder Linda Thomas-Martin, Officiating
Bishop Vashti Murphy McKenzie, Eulogist
Burial:
Zion #13, Burdette United Methodist Church Cemetery
4953 Malone Road
Memphis, TN 38118
(901) 365-8725
Professional services entrusted to:
Gillespie Funeral Home
9179 Pigeon Roost Rd
Olive Branch, MS 38654
(662) 895-2470 (Phone)
(662) 895-0470 (Fax)
Condolences / words of comfort may be sent to:
Mrs. Imogene Cowley (spouse)
622 Whitesboro Avenue
Memphis, TN 38109
(901) 398-7109
Email: imogene1939@hotmail.com
And
Rev. Sherri C. Scott (daughter) Pastor,
St. Paul AME Church - Woodburn, KY
619 Elk Drive
Clarksville, TN 37043-5580
(931) 624-6851 or sscott3488@aol.com
29. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
With regret we share news of the passing of Cathy Gamble, daughter of Rev. Cheryl Tucker, Pastor of Good Shepherd AME Church in San Diego, CA (Southern California Conference, 5th Episcopal District).
Cathy Gamble's Home Going Celebration:
Saturday, January 19, 2008 at 1:00 pm
Bethel Memorial A.M.E. Church
3085 K Street
San Diego, CA 92102
619-232-0510 (Phone)
619-232-8717 (Fax)
Rev. Anthony Hughes, Pastor
There will be a repast immediately following the Home Going Services in the Fellowship Hall of Bethel Memorial A.M.E. Church.
The family will attend a private entombment at Mt. Hope Cemetery at a later date.
For directions please visit Bethel's website at www.bethelamesd.com
Or
Call the Church Office at 619-232-0510.
Professional services entrusted to:
Anderson Ragsdale Mortuary
5050 Federal Blvd.
San Diego, CA 92102
619-263-3141 (Phone)
619-263-1507 (Fax)
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to CASA, the organization Cathy helped to found, and was the Executive Director. Access the Website by going to: www.casasd.org.
Other expressions of sympathy may be sent to:
Rev. Cheryl Tucker, Pastor
Good Shepherd AME Church
6035 University Avenue
San Diego, CA 92115
619-286-0893 (Phone)
E-mail: RevCheryl@aol.com
30. 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
31. 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
