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 CHALLENGES OF CHANGE:
Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III
We are living in a world of change; in our homes, in our relationships, in our schools, on our jobs, in our communities, and even in the Church.
In the sense of information, the world is, in the words of Thomas Friedman, “flat.” Information that once took days to transmit is exchanged in milliseconds. Combat operations in far-away places can be seen on CNN or Fox News as it happens.
In this year’s presidential race, the political candidates are all speaking about change. All of them are touting the notion that America is in the season of change and needs to change. It seems that they all agree that Americans are calling for change. Recent polls validate the call for change.
Not only are Americans calling for change, but the international community is also calling for Americans to make changes; in our presence and policies in Iraq and Afghanistan. The world community is calling for America to make changes in the area of global warming and ecological irresponsibility.
People are calling for change in Kenya and Zimbabwe and in other countries in Africa. African and Caribbean countries, once governed by colonial powers, are now independent and some are struggling with the economy and with the responsibilities that go along with independence. Change can be seen around the world: in Africa, Europe and the Pacific Rim; and in rural and urban America. The call for change seems to be pervasive and far-reaching.
In the United States, change can be seen in all facets of education. Traditional classroom teaching is being replaced by distance learning and asynchronous online learning. High school diplomas are being replaced by certificates of attendance, particularly in minority communities. Violence in schools is on the increase and has changed the pedagogical landscape with the presence of security teams, out of control disciplinary problems, and example after example of teachers who violate the teacher-student moral and ethical protocols.
Families are changing. The nuclear family has long ago been replaced by single parent-led households and blended families. The sanctity of the marriage ceremony has been diminished and more couples are choosing to wait and live together, and even have children before committing to the marriage ceremony; and it’s done without shame. Recently in a “Dear Abby” advice, a 23 year-old single mother who had a 1-year-old son, sought advice because of her live-in boyfriend wanted her to distance herself from her family and friends. She went on to write, “I don’t know what to do, because my son comes first. I understand the concept that once you find your true love, you move in with him and you are supposed to be happy...” and closed her letter with, “I am so confused right now; I don’t know what to think.” She is confused, but she is not alone. As the right Reverend Richard Hildebrand said recently in a speech in South Carolina, “We are living in a new day!”
Change has been constant throughout history. In governments and in organizations, change has produced negative results and in other instances, change has produced positive results and growth.
Change has been constant activity in the church universal. Every denomination has experienced the challenges of change.
The Roman Catholic changed from the Tridentine Mass that was the norm for many years. In the late sixties or early seventies, the Roman Catholic Church allowed priests to say the Mass in the language of the people. Many of the parishioners opposed the change now there is a move in Roman Catholicism to go back to the Tridentine Rite. Change is active in Roman Catholicism.
Change is active in Protestant Churches.
Some Pentecostal churches used to require their female followers to wear long dresses, did not allow their members to go to the movies, and encouraged females to abstain from wearing lipstick and jewelry. A lot of that has changed today and many Pentecostals dress and act like members in any other church. There is a movement in some Pentecostal circles to bring back the traditions and rules of the past. There was a time when the clergy of the Church of God in Christ would not be seen in a pulpit robe, but many of the COGIC clergy have embraced wearing the pulpit robe.
Baptist churches coveted their independence and the autonomy of local congregations; each congregation could make its own rules. The use of the title, “bishop” was unheard for Baptist preachers; “that was a Methodist, Roman Catholic, or Episcopal Church thing.” Changes take place in Baptist denominations. The Full Gospel Baptist Church Fellowship International has organized themselves connectionally and their pastors have embraced, with love and reverence, the term, “bishop.” I see Baptist preachers interacting with each other and calling each other, “bishop.”
Like other religious bodies in the church universal, the African Methodist Episcopal Church has also experienced change; and is in the midst of change today. AMEs, across the connection are calling for change.
The clarion call for change by the clergy and laity is not a new phenomenon. The AME Church has dealt with change, from its beginning in 1787. The Church Fathers, and subsequently our Church Mothers, were wise in setting up a protocol, the General Conference, as the vehicle for addressing and handling change.
The General Conference and the other mechanisms in the AME Church’s procedure for addressing change works best when the constituency, clergy and laity, follow the rules of The Discipline. Unfortunately, there are those among us, both clergy and laity, who want to implement changes, independent of The Discipline.
I believe that Bishop Anderson had this in mind, recently, when he quoted Ravi K. Zacharias: "Some are taking down walls without knowing why the walls were put up."
Dr. Dennis Dickerson remarked at CONVO X in Orlando, Florida that those who summarily make changes, whether it be in worship or procedures in governance, ignore the wisdom of our founder and other Church leaders; and in so doing those clergy and laity think that they have more wisdom than the Church Fathers had. Dr. Dickerson responded forcefully, “I don’t think so.”
Does the Church need change? I am sure that some changes are needed in our Zion, but there is a method and procedure for making changes.
I suspect that some worship traditions and governance need to be modified, but the modification needs to be accomplished through the rules of The Discipline and by consensus. I suspect that none of us, individually, are smart enough to tear down the traditions (or walls) of over two-hundred years of doing the ministry of Christ in the African Methodist Episcopal Church. Implementing change on the local and connectional levels requires leadership on all levels, and effective leadership builds consensus, is compassionate and builds relationships.
Do we need change and diversity in worship? I am sure the answer is a resounding, yes. I have seen churches that when the gospel choir sang, the church was full and when the senior choir sang, the attendance was less. On the other hand, I have seen churches that when the senior or chancel choir sang, the church was full and when the gospel choir sang the attendance was less. The conclusion that I draw from those two examples is that, “one size doesn’t fit all” and the pastor and the local church leadership need to be wise when planning and implementing strategies for increased attendance at worship services and when trying to increase local church growth. And, I hope that pastors don’t try to strategize in isolation. Pastors need the input of the local church leadership, and especially, the stewards. For effective change, there must be a strategy.
Do we need change in the pastoral appointment system? I suspect that the answer is, yes. I am certain that the implementation of a “transition ministry” would be welcomed by local churches, pastors and their families. Other Methodist bodies have made changes that allow time for a “grieving process” for clergy families in transition and counseling is provided as needed and appropriate.
Do we need to re-look our intake process for candidates for ministry? Why does a person who is going to remain in a local status need to be ordained as an itinerant, unless we validate and affirm other ministries, in addition to the pastoral ministry. Is there a need for a permanent diaconate? Do we need to revise the textbooks required for ministerial orders? Some of the books in the current Discipline are out of print and perhaps irrelevant for the 21st Century.
Do we, as a Church, need to implement a serious academic program of ministerial training update? The folks sitting on our pews are smart. Now, it’s great to have a great “hoop and holler,” but those smart folks sitting in the pews want more teaching; at least, that’s what I am hearing. In the words or Bishop T. Larry Kirkland, ministry is more than a “holler and a collar.”
The theology that I studied in seminary is not the same as what is being taught today; theology is living and alive. As an example, Dr. James Cone who wrote, Black Theology, is constantly updating his treatment of theology. For instance, he is dealing with the theological significance of the “noose and the cross.”
The Bible is a living document and though the biblical historical account is the same, the biblical message needs to be updated and kept relevant for this day and for this age; and that requires constant study and updates and presentations and workshops presented by trained theologians.
And one more thing: the notion that only pastors subscribe to the AME periodicals is a notion that is long past. The all of the AME periodicals should be read by all of our clergy and laity. Everybody ought to subscribe to all of the periodicals. For instance, the YPD Newsletter is an outstanding publication and all of our young people should be subscribed to it. Every AME should support all of our periodicals. Many of us need to change our thinking and to be abreast of what’s going on in our Zion, we would benefit from being kept abreast of what is going on in the African Methodist Episcopal Church; and to do that, we need to read.
Yes, we are living in a volatile environment and in the midst of the challenges of constant change all around us and that’s the reason I am glad that, “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.” (Heb 13:8, NIV).
Jesus Christ is the constant in my life.
Editor’s Note: The next editorial will be: The “Sins” of a Presiding Elder.
2. METROPOLITAN AME CHURCH EXPANDS EFFORTS TO REDUCE RECIDIVISM IN PARTNERSHIP WITH THE COURT SERVICES AND OFFENDER SUPERVISION AGENCY:
On January 20, Justice Sunday, historic Metropolitan African Methodist Episcopal Church announces the expansion of The Daniel Alexander Payne Reclamation program to reduce the number of individuals returning to prison. It is estimated 2800 to 3000 offenders return to the District of Columbia each year, averaging 240 per month. And roughly two-thirds return to prison within three years.
The Daniel Alexander Payne Reclamation program (DAPRP), a 501(c) (3) nonprofit of Metropolitan, was designed “to provide a foundation for incubation of hope and the installation of job skills thus lowering the possibility for recidivism,” said Trotter Collier, Program Coordinator. Inspired by author Evans Hopkins and the Mighty Men of Metropolitan AME Church, DAPRP was established to prepare men returning from prison for a new beginning.
Having graduated its first class of ex-offenders in 2006, the Reclamation Program has been selected by The Court Services & Offender Supervision Agency (CSOSA) to supervise efforts within the faith community to meet the needs of returning ex-offenders. In November 2007, CSOSA identified the Reclamation Program (DAPRP), to lead a multi-year effort to expand the faith community’s efforts with ex-offenders in wards 1, 2, 3 and 4.
Press is invited to the 11 am worship service at Metropolitan, located at 1518 M St. N.W., on Sunday, January 20. Observed as Justice Sunday and Martin Luther King Day of National Service, this day begins 40 days of Reconciliation. Following the worship service, Metropolitan’s Senior Pastor, Rev. Ronald E. Braxton, representatives from (CSOSA) and the Daniel Alexander Payne Reclamation Program will speak to the press with details of the expanded role of DAPRP with CSOSA.
3. ALLEN UNIVERSITY TO BUILD $16 MILLION DOLLAR DORMITORIES:
Mr. Benjamin Harrison
Monday, January 14th, at 12 Noon, Allen University conducted a groundbreaking ceremony to celebrate the planned construction of a $16 million dollar Student Residence Center which will house 480 students in new state-of-the-art facilities. Columbia City Mayor Bob Coble, Columbia City Councilman E.W. Cromartie II, and various other city and state officials stood with Bishop Preston W. Williams II, presiding prelate of the Seventh Episcopal District and Chairman of the Board of Allen University, Dr. Charles E. Young, President of Allen University, and various other church and community leaders to announce this historic event. Additionally, A.M.E. Bishops James L. Davis, William P. DeVeaux Sr., Robert V. Webster, Samuel L. Green Sr., Richard A. Chappelle Sr., Cornal G. Henning Sr., Gregory G.M. Ingram, Vashti M. McKenzie, and Richard F. Norris, retired Bishops Frank C. Cummings, Vinton R. Anderson, Frederick C. James and Zedekiah L. Grady, General Officers Dr. Dennis Dickerson, Dr. Clement Fugh, Rev. Dr. Daryl B. Ingram, Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III, Dr. Jerome V. Harris, and Dr. Richard A. Lewis, and retired General Officer Jamie Williams, journeyed from throughout South Carolina, the United States, and the world to be present at Allen University for this momentous occasion.
The initial dedicatory ceremony began at 10 a.m. in Allen University’s John Hurst Adams Gymnatorium at 1530 Harden Street in Columbia, S.C. After which attendees walked to the groundbreaking site on Hampton Street, between Pine and Harden Streets, to officially christen the construction site for its future educational purpose.
Bishop Williams stated, “The positive development of Allen University is one of the central aims of my administration. We seek to continue the university’s legacy of strong buildings, a strong curriculum, and student leaders who possess strong intellectual and moral character. I would like to thank South Carolina’s entire community of politicians, bankers, business people, preachers and teachers, Allen University faculty, staff, and students, and particularly the Seventh Episcopal District and connectional A.M.E. Church for their steadfast support in turning this tremendous vision into a bright reality.”
Under the guidance of Bishop Preston W. Williams II and Dr. Charles E. Young, Allen University is currently experiencing an unprecedented level of growth and progress. The university has recently acquired new faculty, increased its student body, upgraded the science, mathematics, and physics labs, refurbished university buildings, expanded the curriculum, increased the degree programs, and modernized its existing facilities. To accomplish this, Allen University has invested tens of millions of dollars toward the fulfillment of its Strategic Growth Program, whose end result is the betterment of every aspect of university life.
Dr. Charles Young stated, “Today is a great day for Allen University! The construction of these new dormitories will allow us to house our current students in state-of-the-art facilities and increase our enrollment by several hundred new students. This Student Residence Center will provide our youth with cutting-edge facilities in which they can live, learn, and grow in a healthy intellectual and social environment.”
Allen University’s construction of a $16 million dollar Student Residence Center arguably stands as its most significant transformation since its inception in 1870. Building a 480 bed state-of-the-art student dormitory will propel the university into a bright and successful future by helping to attract and retain the best and brightest students, while providing them with an environment that is both conducive to learning and a suitable home for their college experience. The Student Residence Center will stand as a reflection of both the excellence of the university and the quality of education and guidance provided by the faculty and staff.
The Residence Center was designed by Stevens & Wilkinson of South Carolina, Inc., and was fashioned to respect and comply with the standards set by downtown Columbia’s historic Waverly Community. The Center will consist of 2 developmental elements: element 1 consists of two dormitories totaling 116,280 square feet, and 480 beds; and element 2 is an esplanade running along the Hampton Street façade. Each dormitory will also contain a lobby with a front desk for student/visitor screening, a lounge/meeting room with male and female bathrooms, elevators, computer study centers, a reception area, electrical and mechanical rooms, and housekeeping space.
Development of these new residence halls will also provide a major boost to Allen University’s future financial position. Like tuition, revenues generated from student housing fees are essential to the business structure and financial performance of any university’s operations. Yet, even with the construction of these new cutting-edge facilities, Allen’s room charges, as well as the total combined annual costs for tuition, room and board, will still remain less expensive than rates currently charged by two of the leading local HBCU’s, Benedict College and Claflin University.
Allen University has provided its students with an exceptional education and an enriching college experience for nearly 140 years. Established in 1870, Allen University is the first institution of higher education in South Carolina founded by African Americans for the express purpose of educating African Americans. Under the leadership of Bishop Preston W. Williams II and Dr. Charles E. Young, the construction of this new Student Residence Center will place Allen University at the cusp of its greatest season as it builds into the new millennium.
* Mr. Benjamin Harrison is the Public Relations Director for the 7th Episcopal District, AME Church
4. “A MARCH FOR JUSTICE”
Orange County, California---Christ Our Redeemer AME Church will sponsor a peaceful march for justice in Santa Ana, California, on February 2, 2008. As a part of the annual Black History Parade, the church will march on behalf of one of its members, Kevin Powell, who was shot and killed by the Santa Ana Police Department on October 2, 2007.
Says Pastor Mark Whitlock, “Kevin was one of our most respected and beloved members. He was an active member of our church, participating in our Men’s Ministry, our Prison Outreach Program, and many of our youth programs. We march for an end to violent police pursuits and gang violence.” Pastor Whitlock has held two press conferences and questioned why the Santa Ana Police Department would open fire on an apparently unarmed, stationary man. He says that after almost four months, the authorities have refused to answer the question.
The march will be fashioned after the freedom marches of the 1950’s and 1960’s to replicate history, but will feature as its dominate theme the silence of law enforcement concerning the facts surrounding Mr. Powell’s death.
Concerned groups and the general public are invited to participate. Men are asked to wear dark suits and shoes, women skirts and dresses, in the style of historical freedom marchers. Participants will assemble at Broadway and 15th Streets, Santa Ana, California, at 8:45 a.m., Saturday February 2, 2008.
For more information, contact Christ Our Redeemer AME Church, 46 Maxwell, Irvine, California, 92618, (949) 955-0014.
5. ABC IS BROADCASTING “A RAISIN IN THE SUN” ON FEBRUARY 25, 2008 – 8:00 P.M. EST:
As a part of Black History Month, ABC is broadcasting “A Raisin In The Sun” on February 25, 2008 – 8:00 p.m. EST – starring the cast from the Broadway production. Click on the link below to see the trailer and for more information
The trailer is below:
http://www.sonypictures.com/tv/araisininthesun/?hs308=email
6. SEEKING POLITICAL GUIDANCE - KING OFFERS MORAL TOUCHSTONE FOR VOTE:
*The Rev. JOSEPH A. DARBY
Sunday, January 20, 2008
One of the more popular Christian phrases of the 1990s — "What Would Jesus Do" — actually goes back to "In His Steps," an 1896 book by Congregationalist minister Charles Sheldon. Sheldon dealt with the application of Christianity to daily decisionmaking by asking, "What Would Jesus Do," portraying Jesus as a moral example as well as a savior figure. I thought of that phrase as America prepares to celebrate the life and work of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. on Monday.
King Day 2008 is bracketed by Saturday's Republican Presidential Primary and next Saturday's Democratic Presidential Primary. Candidates in both parties often package their political positions in the language of faith, even though those positions are sometimes very different, and racial controversy has cropped up in the Democratic race over the role of Dr. King in the passage of the civil rights laws of the mid-20th century. Since Dr. King is seen by people of good will as a "drum major for justice" who reshaped public policy in America, and since Dr. King was also a Baptist minister, I couldn't help but consider the presidential primary rhetoric and ask myself, "What Would King Do?" The answer may lie in the divinely inspired words that he left behind, for Dr. King spoke of much more than judging people "not by the color of their skin, but by the content of their character."
I am amused by the way some candidates in both parties shape their messages to appeal to emotions and trends instead of clearly stating their positions, and by the way they exercise great caution in tackling problems head on and working for timely change. They would do well to remember the words of Dr. King: "The time is always right to do what is right." They could then clearly and concretely state their positions, and embrace not just what rings in voters' ears, but what is right for our present needs as a nation.
I am troubled by candidates who stir controversy for controversy's sake and who limit their "morality" to matters of the flesh that cloud voters' visions of societal problems we're morally obligated to tackle. They would do well to remember the words of Dr. King: "Life's most persistent and urgent question is, 'What are you doing for others?' " The candidate who gets my vote will be the candidate who sees morality not just in terms of "who sleeps with whom," but in terms of feeding the hungry, housing the homeless, and seeing that all citizens have an equal chance to achieve the elusive "American Dream."
I am disappointed to see how some candidates serenely and graciously claim the "high ground" of positive campaigning when they're comfortably leading in the polls, but quickly slip into the politics of accusation, insult and thinly veiled slander when their lead in the polls deteriorates. Too often they try to regain the lead by tearing into the opposition, and then become the picture of innocence and conciliation if the tactic backfires on them. They'd do well to remember the words of Dr. King: "The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands at times of challenge or controversy." The candidate who gets my vote will be the one who has a consistent message and well-articulated plan regardless of how the polls and political winds shift, for if one believes in what one says, then deviating from the message is unnecessary, even when others make mean-spirited attacks.
Dr. King changed America by practicing what he preached and by bringing the words of Christian Scripture to bear in a way that touched hearts, changed minds and shaped public policy. That's what I try to do in my ministry, especially prior to any election. I never tell people how to vote, for doing so insults their intelligence. I do, however, try to link public policy issues of the day to the Scriptures of my faith, welcome candidates to articulate their faith and positions to those in my congregation, then urge those in the congregation I serve to choose the candidate whose positions best reflect their faith.
I also urge all of those in my congregation and all Americans to go to the polls, to exercise their right to vote, and to do so in an informed way so that their faith speaks truth to power. Dr. King did that; as well-informed voters, we should, too. For Dr. King was on target when he said, "Nothing in the world is more dangerous than sincere ignorance and conscientious stupidity."
*The Rev. Joseph A. Darby is senior pastor at Morris Brown AME Church.
**Reprinted by permission of The Post and Courier
7. BISHOP ROBERT VAUGHN WEBSTER…LEGACY REMEMBERED:
On Friday, March 28, 2008 at the Renaissance Hotel, 50 North 3rd Street in Columbus Ohio, the Bishops of the A.M.E. Church, the General Officers, Connectional Officers, elected City and State Officials as well as the Officers and Members of the 3rd Episcopal District will gather to celebrate the Retirement of Bishop Robert Vaughn Webster…..”A Legacy Remembered”.
At the conclusion of the 46th Session of the General Conference in Cincinnati Ohio, Bishop Webster and the late Episcopal Supervisor Mrs. Carol Ogleton Webster were greeted by the tired and enthusiastic Third Episcopal District delegation.
From that moment we have been the benefactors of his spiritual guidance and leadership along with his compassion and have witnessed his benevolence towards others.
Bishop Webster’s ministry and commitment to the African Methodist Episcopal Church began more than 50 years ago in his home state of Arkansas. His commitment to African Methodism was further evidenced by his matriculation at Wilberforce University and Payne Theology Seminary.
Upon his graduation from Payne Seminary, he pastored churches in Ohio and Florida. Then in 1992 he was elected and consecrated the 110th Bishop of the A.M.E. Church.
Bishop Webster’s ministry on the Continent of Africa, the Caribbean and the Third Episcopal District has impacted the lives and ministries of numerous individuals. In the Third Episcopal District where he presently serves, Bishop Webster continued to give back to others through his benevolence to others across our connection.
A Legacy Remembered will be a time to celebrate and honor Bishop Robert Vaughn Webster of the Third Episcopal District. The Celebration will be held on Friday, March 28, 2008 at 7:00 p.m. at the Columbus Renaissance Hotel, 50 North 3rd Street, Columbus Ohio. Tickets are $60 and can be purchased by calling the Third Episcopal District Headquarters at 614-575-2279. Souvenir Journal information is available on the Third Episcopal District website: www.thirddistrictame.org
8. JOHNSON CHAPEL AME CHURCH, MALLIKOFF, TEXAS HELD GOSPEL EXPLOSION TO HONOR THE MEMORY OF THE GREAT CIVIL RIGHTS LEADER:
By Michael V. Hannigan
Johnson Chapel AME Church held its annual Martin Luther King Gospel Explosion last Saturday to honor the memory of the great civil rights leader.
Evangelist Alma J. Berry led the combination celebration and worship service along with other area churches.
Joining the voices of the members of Johnson Chapel AME Church, were guest choirs and soloists from:
- First Baptist Church of Malakoff;
- Mt. Calvary Baptist Church of Athens;
- Sister Carol Johnson (solo) from Palestine, Texas;
- Church of the Living God of Malakoff;
- Mt. Providence Baptist Church of Athens;
- Antioch Baptist Church of Malakoff;
- Sister Tonia Brown (solo) of Tennessee Colony, Texas;
- New Hope Corinth CME Church of Malakoff;
- Mt. Moriah Baptist Church, Sand Flat, Texas; and,
- Tennessee Colony Community Choir, Tennessee Colony, Texas.
The Gospel Explosion was the first big event for Johnson Chapel’s new pastor, the Rev. Fred Moss. He served for two years as a youth pastor in Dallas. Rev. Moss is joined in this pastoral appointment by his wife, First Lady, Monica Moss and their son, Tevin.
In his remarks, Rev. Moss said, “We just want to make sure we are able to do whatever ever it is to bless the people of God and to make the city of Malakoff proud of us as servants and leaders in the community.”
Tevin, the son of Rev. and Frist Lady Moss, read from Psalm 100 Saturday night and invited those in attendance to “make a joyful noise.”
Dr. King was an influential part of the civil rights movement, participating in many rallies and non-violent protests. He was arrested more than 30 times.
Martin Luther King’s life was cut short when he was shot while standing on the balcony of the Lorraine Motel in Memphis, Tennessee on April 4, 1968. He had been in the area to lead sanitation workers in a protest against low wages and poor conditions. His shooter was James Earl Ray, who was arrested in London, England on June 8, 1968 and returned to Memphis, Tennessee to stand trial for the assassination.
At the time of his assassination, King was co-pastor with his father at Ebenezer Baptist Church in Atlanta and was serving as the president of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference.
9. AFRICAN AMERICANS ARE AT INCREASED RISK FOR DANGEROUS ARTERY DISEASE; LEARN MORE ABOUT P.A.D. DURING A FREE ONLINE TRAINING:
P.A.D. (peripheral arterial disease) means clogged arteries in your legs. P.A.D. raises your risk for heart attack, stroke, and even death. P.A.D. affects 8 to 12 million people in the United States, especially those over 50, and is more common in African Americans than any other racial or ethnic group.
P.A.D. does not always cause symptoms; so many people can have P.A.D. and not know it. The National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, part of the National Institutes of Health, is partnering with the AMEC Health Commission to hold a free Web-based training where you can learn more about P.A.D. and the Stay in Circulation campaign. You will also get resources and ideas to help you share information about this common, yet serious, disease with your family, church members, and community.
What: Stay in Circulation Web-based training
When: Tuesday, February 19; Two sessions: 7:00 p.m. or 9:00 p.m. EST (30 min. each)
Where: Anywhere with a phone and computer (or just a phone, if you do not have Internet access)
How to Register:
To register and receive log-in information, please email your name, address, and phone number to aboutpad@nhbli.nih.gov or call 202-729-4170
10. BISHOP VASHTI MURPHY MCKENZIE ENCOURAGES BLACK CHURCHES TO SUPPORT THE SISTER STUDY:
NIH Breast Cancer Research Seeking More African American Women
NASHVILLE, TN—Bishop Vashti Murphy McKenzie, the Presiding Prelate for the Thirteenth Episcopal District of the African Methodist Episcopal (A.M.E.) Church is encouraging more than two hundred A.M.E. church leaders in Kentucky and Tennessee to spread the word about the Sister Study, a landmark breast cancer study to learn how environment and genes affect the chances of getting breast cancer. Bishop McKenzie also challenges other faith leaders across the country to help spread the word to women in their congregations and communities.
“When a woman is diagnosed with breast cancer, it affects her family, her church and the community in which she serves. African American faith leaders can motivate women to find ways to help prevent diseases like breast cancer that are plaguing our communities. African American women should join the Sister Study so our young sisters won’t have to face the disease.” said McKenzie.
Much of what is known about breast cancer risk comes from research studies involving mostly white women. However, breast cancer occurrence and survival are different for black women, who often develop the disease at a younger age and have more aggressive tumors, than white women. Even though white women are more likely to get the disease, black women are more likely to die from breast cancer.
Conducted by the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS), one of the National Institutes of Health, the Sister Study researchers hope to enroll at least 50,000 women whose sisters had breast cancer. Since its national launch in October 2004, the Sister Study has successfully recruited more than 40,000 participants, but researchers hope to double the number of minority women enrolled so the study results benefit everyone.
Bishop McKenzie serves as the 117th elected and consecrated bishop of the African Methodist Episcopal Church. Her historic election in the year 2000 represents the first time in the over 200-year history of the A.M.E. Church, in which a woman had obtained that level of Episcopal office. In 2004, she again made history becoming the first woman to become the Titular Head of the denomination, as the president of the Council of Bishops, making her the highest-ranking woman in the predominately Black Methodist denominations. Bishop McKenzie has been honored for her community service, outstanding achievement and being a religious role model by a number of diverse civic, educational, business and governmental leaders. She is also the National Chaplain for Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. an international public service organization and life member of the NAACP.
“We are extremely grateful to Bishop McKenzie for her support. One of the greatest legacies women can pass down to future generations is a better understanding of breast cancer,” said Dale Sandler, Ph.D., Chief of the Epidemiology Branch at NIEHS and Principal Investigator of the Sister Study. “If you're a woman of color whose sister had breast cancer, your participation in the Sister Study is especially important,” continued Dr. Sandler. “We want to learn more about how to protect future generations — daughters and granddaughters — from this devastating disease.”
Women in the U.S. and Puerto Rico, ages 35 to 74, may be eligible to join the Sister Study if their sisters (living or deceased) had breast cancer. Women who join the Sister Study must never have been diagnosed with breast cancer themselves. Breast cancer affects women from every walk of life, so the Sister Study is seeking women of all backgrounds, occupations, ages, and ethnic groups.
The Sister Study follows sound, ethical research practices, and keeps all personal data safe, private and confidential. Women who join are not asked to take any medicine, visit a medical center, or make any changes to their habits, diet or daily life, although they are free to make such changes over the course of the observational study.
Other organizations that are in partnership with the Sister Study include the American Cancer Society, Intercultural Cancer Council, the NIH National Center on Minority Health and Health Disparities, Sisters Network Inc., Susan G. Komen for the Cure, and Y-ME National Breast Cancer Organization.
To learn more about the Sister Study, visit the web site www.sisterstudy.org, or for Spanish visit www.estudiodehermanas.org. A toll free number is also available 1-877-4SISTER (877-474-7837). Deaf/Hard of Hearing call 1-866-TTY-4SIS (866-889-4747).
11. GRANT AME CHURCH, LOS ANGELES IS SEARCHING FOR ASSOCIATE PREACHERS:
Grant AME Church, Los Angeles is in a prayerful search for associate preachers to assist with ministry at Grant Church.
Vacancies have occurred because two associate preachers have relocated to New York and Atlanta.
Referrals and prospective candidates may contact Pastor Leslie White to set up appointments. Compensation for ministry is a part of this consideration.
Grant AME Church is located at 10435 South Central Avenue, Los Angeles, “Watts” California 90002-3325
Email: ThePreacher3755@aol.com
Voice: 323-564-1151
Fax: 323-564-5027
Cell: 323-806-5232
Leslie R. White
Pastor
12. BOSTON UNIVERSITY SCHOOL OF THEOLOGY TAKING APPLICATIONS FOR DEAN:
As you know, the dean search for the School of Theology is underway. If you would like to provide input, please visit http://www.bu.edu/sth/deansearch/ then click on “Contact the Dean Search Committee.” As you will note, you may submit comments anonymously or for attribution within the committee. The committee welcomes your thoughts and participation in the process!
Dean Maureen O’Rourke
Chair, STH Dean Search Advisory Committee
13. VACANCY NOTICE WORLD COUNCIL OF CHURCHES AND UNITED STATES CONFERENCE FOR THE WORLD COUNCIL OF CHURCHES:
Job title: Office Administrator & Program Assistant
Reports to: Program Executive for the United States, World Council of Churches and Staff Executive, US Conference for the World Council of Churches
Task: To enable the work of the World Council of Churches in the United States by providing both administrative and programmatic support to the Program Executive for the United States, WCC and the Staff Executive, US Conference for the WCC as well as administering payroll, human resources, contracts, insurance and financial reporting on behalf of the US Conference, the WCC, and the UNLO office of the WCC in New York City.
For additional information, contact Rev. Deborah DeWinter, DHD@wcc-coe.org
Apply To:
The US Conference offers a competitive salary that is commensurate with experience and includes a generous benefits package. The US Conference is an equal opportunity employer.
Rev. Deborah DeWinter
US Conference for the World Council of Churches
475 Riverside Drive, Room 1370
New York, NY 10115
Email: DHD@wcc-coe.org
Applications should include: a resume and cover letter indicating why candidate is interested in this position; names and contact information for three references.
Start Date: On or before 3 March 2008
14. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
With regret we share news of the loss of both the brother (Archbishop Jimmie Lee Smith) and a niece (Delorna Denise "Dee Dee" Minor) of Reverend Dr. Charles Bennett, Presiding Elder of the West Atlanta District, Atlanta North-Georgia Conference, 6th Episcopal District.
Service arrangements for Archbishop Jimmie Lee Smith:
Homegoing:
11:00 AM
Saturday, January 19, 2008
Light of the World Christian Tabernacle International
5883 Highway 155 North
Stockbridge, GA 30281-1831
Phone: (678) 565-7001
Professional services entrusted to:
Levett & Sons Funeral Home
351 N Clarenoon Avenue
Decatur, GA 30079
(Phone) 404-294-5500
(Fax) 404-241-8116
Service arrangements for Delorna Denise "Dee Dee" Minor:
(Services were held today)
Homegoing:
Thursday, Jan. 17, 2008
11:00 AM
Israel Missionary Baptist Church
2071 Hosea Williams Dr. SE
Atlanta, GA 30317
Professional services were entrusted to:
Willie A. Watkins Funeral Home, Inc.
1003 Ralph David Abernathy Blvd.
Atlanta, GA 30310
404-758-1731
Condolences and expressions of sympathy may be sent to:
Presiding Elder Charles Bennett
5467 Swanson Road
Ellenwood, GA 30294
Phone numbers: 706-682-7650 (Cell) 706-662-2191
E-mail address: revcwbennett@bellsouth.net
15. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
Announcing the passing of Mr. McKinley Rawlings, the father of the Rev. Brenda Tillman, pastor of Bethel A.M.E. Church, Lonoke, Arkansas.
The funeral has been held.
16. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
Announcing with regret the passing of Mrs. Earnease Henderson, the sister of Rev. E. Lewis Branch, Retired Presiding Elder of the Kansas-Nebraska Conference. Mrs. Earnease Henderson passed in Alton, Illinois on January 17, 2008.
The funeral has been held.
Messages of condolences can be directed to:
The Henderson Family
20 Marian Street
Alton, Illinois 62002
Or to
Dr. & Mrs. E. Lewis Branch
3152 Dublin Court
So. San Francisco, CA 94080
Ph. 650-204-9513
Cell: 650-867-6428
Fax 650-873-1182
Email: Lretha@comcast.net
17. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
Announcing with regret the passing of Elder Toranice Lee Smith (on 1/15/2008, age 47), an associate minister of Shiloh Baptist Church of Lexington, Kentucky, and the husband of Sister Gina Smith, a licentiate of the Kentucky Annual Conference and a member of Saint Paul AME Church, Lexington, Kentucky (Pastor Troy Thomas) - 13th Episcopal District.
The service arrangements for Elder Toranice Lee Smith:
Visitation:
Monday, January 21, 2008
6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Smith & Smith Funeral Home
340 E. 3rd Street
Lexington, KY 40508
Phone: 859-255-6273
Fax: 859-233-0311
Funeral Services:
Tuesday, January 22, 2008
12:00 noon
Shiloh Missionary Baptist Church
Dr. Joseph L. Owens, Pastor
237 E. Fifth Street
Lexington, KY 40508
Phone: 859-252-5315
18. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
We regret to inform you of the passing of Sister Helen E. Lewis, who passed away on Friday, January 18, 2008. Sister Lewis was the Treasurer for the First Episcopal District Women's Missionary Society and the wife of Rev. Lee F. Lewis, deceased pastor in the First Episcopal District. The following information has been provided regarding funeral arrangements.
Viewing and Funeral Service - Saturday, January 26, 2008
Viewing - 9:00 - 11:00 a.m.
Funeral - 11:00 a.m.
Ward A.M.E. Church
728 North 43rd Street
Philadelphia, PA 19104
Phone: 215-222-7992
Fax: 215-222-9209
Rev. Terrence C. Hensford, Pastor
Expressions of Sympathy may be sent to:
Mrs. Gwenda Gee
c/o Terry Funeral
4203 Haverford Avenue
Philadelphia, PA 19104
Phone: 215-222-2828
Fax: 215-222-4067
Interment: West Laurel Hill
Bala Cynwyd, PA
19. 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
20. 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
