Bishop Gregory G. M. Ingram - Chair, Commission on Publications
The Reverend Dr. Johnny Barbour, Jr., Publisher
The Reverend Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III, Editor, The Christian Recorder
The entire staff of The Christian Recorder wishes the AME Church family and all of our subscribers a Very Happy and Blessed Easter! Jesus Christ died and arose for our sins and we are thankful. We wish for all of you a blessed season of Pentecost, Which follows Easter, as we continue to celebrate the Resurrection of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ!
1. EDITORIAL - IS THERE A WORD? IS THERE ANY WORD?:
Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III
There have been editorials, comments from newscasters, religious leaders, op-ed column writers, letters to the editor, and opinions bantered back and work by "Joe and Jane" citizen about the video-sound-bite of the Reverend Dr. Jeremiah Wright's comments about America and about Senator Barack Obama's speech that urges the U.S. to grapple with the race issue. Senator Obama's speech was one the most articulate and most impressive speeches given by any politician. Obama addressed issues and he addressed the issue of his relationship with his pastor, the Reverend Dr. Jeremiah Wright.
The comments from newscasters that I have heard on the major television networks have been startling. Their negative comments, especially about Dr. Jeremiah Wright tell me that they have little or no understanding or sensitivity of black America and absolutely no understanding of the black church or black preaching.
Some of the comments that I heard from white evangelicals showed complete ignorance about prophetic preaching, especially in the black church and a lack of the preaching style of the biblical prophets. It underscored for me, the perception that I have of some white churches' "feel good" sermons, of "think it and believe it, everything is okay.”
I have seen some predominantly white churches inundated with American flags; with sermon titles on their bulletin boards that implies the sermon was going to be, "America, right or wrong…" And, the reason that many white Christians don't understand the black church is because they are insulated in their own churches and the statement that Mr. Obama quoted in his speech, which has been around for years, "Sunday morning at 11 a.m. is the most segregated hour in America.” I wonder what seminaries, particularly the so-called evangelical seminaries are teaching their students. The racial divide is as real today as it was 20 years ago.
Preaching in black churches is an important part of ministry; and I know that is true in some white churches also.
I also know that in some white churches, if a sermon hits too close to home, that some of the white members would walk out and disassociate themselves from the pastor and the church. This happened many times during the '50's and '60's when some prophetic white preachers dared to stand up for civil and human rights; many of the pastors were expelled from their pulpits.
There is a different mindset for preaching in white and black churches. “Feel good sermons” are not generally tolerated in black churches.
Prophetic preaching, spiritual preaching, hard preaching, relevant preaching, challenging preaching and controversial preaching is the norm in many black churches. Sometimes the preaching is so challenging and personal, that some parishioners must think, "Now, the pastor has gone to meddling.”
Black church members usually don't walk out; black parishioners are brought up to believe that the preacher is the man or woman of God and that he or she is speaking what "thus saith the Lord." In the AME Church, we refer to the preaching moment as that time when “the Preacher,” Jesus Christ comes and “delivers the sermon.”
In black churches we speak out loud in response to prophetic preaching, we stand on our feet, we shout, we get happy; that's all a part of the black religious experience.
We don't walk out or abandon preachers who preach something we may not agree with; that's not a part of our culture. I was so happy to hear Barack Obama say the he was not going to abandon his preacher, Pastor Wright, as he wouldn't abandon his maternal grandmother who also said things that he did not agree with.
The media is inundated with responses to Rev. Wright's willingness to be a prophetic preacher and appreciative and in awe of Senator Barack Obama's magnificent message and challenge to America to address the racial and gender divide; if not now, when?
There are others; many others who are critical of Pastor Wright and Senator Barack Obama. We live in a free country and, sometimes we agree and at other times, disagree, but it is always educational to hear and read what individuals and organizations have to say about both sides of issues.
Let me put his out there: I wonder if there is a word on all of this from the episcopal leadership of the AME Church? Our bishops and other leaders can be very vocal at our AME meetings, but sometimes silent when the AME Constituency needs to hear the voice of the Churches' leadership.
2. CONNECTIONAL DAY OF PRAYER:
The AME Churches’ First Connectional Day of Prayer period will be Sundown-Friday, April 11 to Sundown-Sunday April 23 with the general theme, "Pray On--Feeding the Soul: 'It is Well with my Soul."
For more information contact: PrayerAMEC2008@aol.com-202/674-PRAY=7729
3. REVEREND WILLIAM M. CAMPBELL, JR., FLAMING FIRE MINISTRIES GIVES A REPORT FROM MONROVIA, LIBERIA:
Baraki na amani! (Swahili for Blessings and Peace).
The Lord is blessing here in Liberia. Last week the 118th session of the Liberia Annual Conference took place at Gibbs AME Church in Buchanan, Liberia. That is about 2 hours away from Monrovia. What a Spirit-filled conference it was. We were blessed to teach during the day and preach the evening revival.
On Saturday, we preached the Ordination Service. What an honor. The message: Just Go! On Sunday, we preached the closing sermon of the annual conference; again another high honor for which we are grateful.
Yesterday I saw the campus of AME University. It was beyond my expectations. The AME Church in Liberia is one of the most respected institutions in the country. The University has an enrollment of 3,100 students! The last graduating class in November was 404 students! Our educational system which includes primary schools, high school (named Monrovia College) and AME University is one of the largest educational systems in the country. AME University is the 2nd largest university behind the University of Liberia. It is awesome what we our doing here, which is in many cases more than what we do in the U.S.
Today the revival begins at the mother church - Eliza Turner AME. It is positioned right next to AME University which is next to the 14th Episcopal District headquarters building. That is all just around the corner from our new 35 bed medical center.
Keep us and the AME Church in prayer.
Gleah (Peace in Bassa which is the language of the bishop),
Pastor William C. Campbell, Jr.
Flaming Fire Ministries
Post Office Box 10776
Killeen, Texas 76547-0776
www.flamingfire21.org
4. SAINT ANDREW TEAMS UP WITH TYLER PERRY’S “MEET THE BROWNS”:
On Saturday, March 15, at 10 AM, a group of more than 200 volunteers from the congregation and ministries of Saint Andrew A.M.E. Church (“The Saint”) in Memphis, TN, its associated childcare center, elementary school and community center, and members of the local neighborhood association and area residents, engaged in a day of community service - an underlying theme of Tyler Perry’s new movie, “Meet The Browns,” released on March 21. Because of St. Andrew’s history of ministry in South Memphis, the church was one of only two churches in the nation invited by the Tyler Perry studio to provide a meaningful example of how groups can significantly impact their neighborhoods through volunteer service. The movie studio provided support funds, T-shirts and assistance with promoting the day of service.
The event involved a community clean-up of abandoned properties, vacant lots, and alleys in our low- to moderate-income, inner-city neighborhood surrounding the church; where St. Andrew builds and rehabilitates housing, provides social services and youth programs, and enjoys a productive partnership with community residents. In consultation with its neighbors, The Saint chose to join area homeowners and residents in this major project, which they felt would provide a valuable service to them. The effort also complemented St. Andrew’s ongoing residential and community development work in South Memphis. Pressing on through rain showers, the volunteers started from a central site, and targeted multiple sites previously identified by the neighborhood association. The event featured multigenerational involvement; with children, their parents and seniors all working side by side. The local City Councilman, Edmund Ford, Jr., and representatives of the City of Memphis’ anti-blight and City Beautiful offices offered their assistance and presence to the event.
St. Andrew is one of the most unusual churches in the nation, with an enterprise of ministries, programs and corporations which form a multifaceted, faith-based, social service and community development agency. A plethora of externally-supported programs and public-private partnerships bring relevant community-based services to South Memphis.
St. Andrew's theme, “Ministering to Memphis – Spirit, Soul, and Body,” has birthed program development in social service outreach, community education, childcare and Pre-K education, after-school enrichment and economic development. The growing, 7-day-a-week church offers a diversity of preventive health services, aerobics, multi-sport athletics, creative arts and affinity group fellowships; and youth programs as varied as a step ministry, abstinence-based programs, and liturgical dance. Further expanding its ministry, St. Andrew incorporated The Works, Inc., its associated, faith-based, Community Development Corporation. The Works has brought true "renaissance" to the church's neighborhood, through the development of affordable single family and rental housing for 113 families. A certified provider of homeowner and homebuyer counseling services, The Works recently launched Tennessee’s only licensed non-profit mortgage brokerage, to offset the prevalence of predatory lenders. St. Andrew’s CDC also sponsors The Circles of Success Learning Academy – the church’s associated K-5 public charter elementary school; founded to innovatively educate children deemed to be at risk of failure in mainstream, traditional classroom settings. With over 80 full- and part-time employees, The St. Andrew enterprise has been responsible for $20,000,000 in total investment in housing and community development in South Memphis.
The Rev. Kenneth S. Robinson, M.D., who recently completed a term in the Tennessee Governor’s Cabinet as the state’s Commissioner of Health, is St. Andrew’s Pastor and Chief Executive. A Harvard-trained internist, he has been nationally recognized by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation and the United Way of America for his work in building a healthy community in the church’s neighborhood. His wife and co-pastor, Rev. Marilynn S. Robinson, MPH - an alumna of Harvard College and Yale School of Public Health, and the Senior Vice President of St. Francis Hospital in Memphis - provided coordinating leadership for this event.
Story Contact Person: Rev. Kenneth S. Robinson, 901-948-3441; ksrcalled@aol.com
5. GRANT AME CHURCH, LOS ANGELES TO PLANT AN AME CHURCH IN ANCHORAGE, ALASKA:
The Lord has placed upon my heart to spread the gospel and plant a church in the city of Anchorage, Alaska!!! The African Methodist Episcopal Church has one church in Alaska and that church is located in Fairbanks, Alaska, 330 miles from Anchorage, which is the largest city in Alaska, Anchorage is a prime community to spread the Gospel of Jesus Christ and plant a church! Anchorage is a striving city with a number of black churches. The AMEZ, CME, COGIC, National Baptists have thriving congregations in Anchorage and Fairbanks too. It is past time for an AME Church to be planted in Anchorage.
This is a great faith adventure to break new ground for African Methodism, in the name of Jesus Christ our Lord. So consider this my personal invitation to you, to step out on faith, and come let us focus an evangelism focus in Anchorage, Alaska for Jesus Christ and plant the African Methodist Episcopal Church in that great city.
The Invitation: Adventure with God! Evangelism and church planting in Anchorage, Alaska, June 16th - 20th, 2008; sponsored by Wings of Faith, a ministry of Grant AME Church.
The General Contact and Project Chair, is the Reverend Jeneen Robinson. She may be reached at: 1-310-927-2685 Cell; 1-323-564-1151 Church Office; or e- mail jeneenrobinson@yahoo.com.
For travel information and to receive a travel brochure, please contact Dr. Leslie White or the Reverend Jeneen Robinson.
We go with the fervent blessings of our Episcopal Father, the Right Reverend John Richard Bryant. I may be reached at 323-806-5232 Cell, or 323-564-1151 office.
The Reverend Dr. Leslie R. White, pastor
Grant AME Church
6. PASTORAL STATEMENT REGARDING THE MINISTRY AND WITNESS OF DR. JEREMIAH WRIGHT, PASTOR OF TRINITY UNITED CHURCH OF CHRIST IN CHICAGO, IL, AND SENATOR BARAK OBAMA:
Delivered to St. James African Methodist Episcopal Church, Newark New Jersey on Sunday, March 16, 2008
By the Reverend Dr. William D. Watley, Senior Pastor
Since his bid for the presidency of the United States, the membership of Senator Barak Obama of Trinity United Church of Christ in Chicago and his friendship with his former pastor, Dr. Jeremiah Wright, have been made campaign issues and given full blown coverage in the media during the past week. I would like make several points regarding this much publicized ancillary issue with its incendiary and biased reporting that has the potential of sidetracking the American public from real survival subject matters that face this country.
First, regarding Dr. Jeremiah Wright and Trinity Church; I have personally known Dr. Wright for a number of years and even though we do not agree on everything; I most certainly take issue and umbrage with the image that is being painted of him by much of the media. In spite of the snippets that have been played over and over again from his sermons, and the spin given to it, I can assure you that Dr. Wright is solid, sane, scholarly, and spiritual. Trinity Church, in my opinion, is one of the most respected, progressive, inclusive, and significant houses of worship in this nation. Senator Obama worships in a stable, sound, nurturing, and prophetic Christian community and his pastor brings a solid and sane word to his congregation. He has no reason to be ashamed or apologetic of either his pastor or his church.
While some would interpret Trinity’s slogan of “Unapologetically Black and Unashamedly Christian” as racist, no one labels the Roman Catholic Church, the Greek Orthodox Church, the Dutch Reformed Church or the American Baptist Church as such. And they should not be given such a label. No one raises any eyebrows when they hear the expression German Lutheran. Trinity United Church of Christ should not be classified in this way. They are ethnically affirming the community they serve just as the African Methodist Episcopal Church (a denomination which split from the Methodist Church over the issues of slavery and racism) is affirming of its members. Celebrating ethnic heritage or national affiliation is not racism, but a way of affirming historic identity.
Could it be possible that even in this post modern era of exploding myths and falling idols, many are still paranoid at the mention of the word “black”? The hysteria that certain persons and portions of the media are attempting to create stems from the fact that there are significant elements in our society and culture are still just as mortified at the mention of the word “black” today as they were in 1968 when popular singer James Brown shouted, “Say it Loud! I’m Black and I’m Proud!” Only those who have been victims of centuries of caricaturing and stereotyping can understand and appreciate the declaration of positive black identity, not as a divisive strategy or as an expression of hate, but as pastoral self love and a much needed corrective to a tragic history of ingrained self-rejection.
Secondly, I would like to say a word about freedom of speech. While we as a country celebrate freedom of speech, we are still uncomfortable with those who take the freedom of speech seriously enough to critique the policies of our nation that contradict our founding principles. These persons are labeled as unpatriotic. Rather than being offended by critique, I look beyond rhetorical flourishes and excesses that are inherent to oratory of whatever ilk, whether religious, political, business, and academic, and ask if the essence of what is being said is true. The reality is this, what Dr. Martin Luther King said years ago, still rings true. Our country that started out as a defender of select poor, since the rights of Africans were never part of the equation, has been on the wrong side of a world revolution for years. I am personally uncomfortable with members of clergy who never offer any word of critique regarding social justice issues and who swallow hook, line, and sinker anything that the conservative right sells no matter what the nefarious implications of that agenda might be. Freedom of speech means the right to be critical and criticism is not to be associated with being unpatriotic.
Third, I would point out that while many are offended by some of Dr. Wright’s comments and analyses of this country, I wonder if they have read closely the preaching of Isaiah, Jeremiah, Amos, Obadiah, Zephaniah, Haggai, John the Baptist, and the Lord Jesus Christ. Many of the Old Testament prophets called for the judgment of God on their people. Our Lord Jesus Christ had prophetic bite and righteous indignation regarding injustice. Unless news commentators have truly studied the scriptures, they are not qualified to understand or judge prophetic critique.
Fourth, African Americans who look at history from the underside, have a different perspective of reality than others who have been in a position of majority advantage. White America has yet to understand or appreciate that perspective or to really grasp the sense of alienation that a number of blacks feel based upon this country’s historic and institutional treatment of us. Yet in spite of this country’s track record with us we have fought in all of its wars, paid our taxes, and never failed our country when we have been called upon to rally to its defense.
Fifth, this latest foray of the media into the religious affiliation of Barak Obama is just another attempt to discredit him and separate him from the interracial and intergenerational constituency that has given him victory after victory in this presidential contest. In the opinion of this preacher and citizen, he is still a major unifying force and voice of hope, among others, for a new, brighter, and better America. While we will all make our decisions regarding a presidential choice, I would just caution all people not to believe the hype of a sensationalistic media whose agenda is not an accurate reporting of the news but the spinning of news in ways that attract the most attention, sells the most products, and brings in the greatest profit. While some in the media may be uncomfortable with the tone of preaching that takes place in a number of churches, there are many others who are offended with the way much of the media spins stories out of context and intentionally omits information because for them, as long as it sells, it is simply business as usual.
Now is the time for all of us who are concerned and passionate about the future of this nation to declare, “Business as usual is no longer acceptable!” Now is the time for change. The words of Deutero-Isaiah spoken so long ago in another context to another people, can serve as our rallying cry for America. He said, “For Zion’s sake I will not keep silent, and for Jerusalem’s sake I will not rest, until her vindication shines out like the dawn, and her salvation like a burning torch” (Isaiah 62: 1, NRSV). So let each of us say, “For [America’s] sake I will not keep silent, and for [this nations’] sake I will not rest, until her vindication shines out like the dawn, and her salvation like a burning torch.”
7. WORLD RENOWNED TENOR COMES HOME TO EBENEZER AFRICAN METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH DETROIT:
By Velma R. Dortch
In demand nationally and internationally for more than four decades, Mr. George Shirley displays no signs of lethargy. And his limitless talent as a performer, teacher and lecturer can now boast the addition of ‘narrator.’
“The quality of the vocal soloist was so consistently high that the music and words shone to the strongest possible effect. One of the Production’s greatest assets was narrator and tenor soloist George Shirley…. Shirley … brought immense authority and dignity to the narration,” said Seattle Times reporter, Melidan Bargreen, referring to “Montage to Martin,” Mr. Shirley’s recent tribute to Martin Luther King Jr.
Mr. Shirley, who has performed more than 80 operatic roles in his more than 40-year-career, came home November 17 to share his history-making talent with his hometown and his history-making church.
As part of its Black History Month celebration, the Historic Ebenezer African Methodist Episcopal Church Detroit, under the auspices of the Black History Month Committee, presented Mr. George Shirley - Music of Faith. Ebenezer Detroit, which recently received Historical Designation from the Detroit City Council, is pastured by the Rev. Dr. H. Michael Lemmons. The eagerly anticipated concert also featured Mr. John Massenburg on the Aeolian Skinner Organ and Mr. Tyrone Mills on piano.
As snow and rain accumulated under a cold February sky, Ebenezer’s sanctuary was warm and cozy. Mr. Shirley’s astonishing tenor voice added further warmth with selections like, The Lord’s Prayer, Ave Maria, Great Is Thy Faithfulness and Give Me Jesus, to name a few.
Thunderous applause for Mr. Shirley’s mastery continued throughout the afternoon. And, as he greeted his multi-ethnic audience, he commented that he loved the applause but asked that it be withheld until the completion of each group of songs. It was an impossible request, made even more impossible by an adoring audience that was eager to experience the indescribable sound of the world renowned tenor. The passionate crowd was on its feet offering “bravos” at the completion of each song. If the continual applause presented a hardship for Mr. Shirley, it wasn’t evident, as he simply waited for the accolades to subside and proceeded to the next selection. His graciousness is perhaps explained in an earlier interview with famed radio announcer and producer, Bruce Duffie. Duffie asked Mr. Shirley, “Are you conscience of the audience every time you go out there?” “Yes,” replied, Mr. Shirley. “… The audience gives you energy. They are very much a part of it. It’s a partnership,” he said.
Born in Indianapolis, George Shirley’s love of music and his gift of singing were first recognized when, at the age of six, his family relocated to Detroit. Shortly thereafter, Mr. Shirley began music lessons and became an active vocalist at area churches. He joined Ebenezer and became an integral part of its music ministry.
In 1955, Mr. Shirley received his bachelor’s degree in music education from Wayne State University. The following year, his long, astonishing compilation of ‘firsts,’ were made manifest when he was drafted into the United States Army and became the ‘first’ African American member of the United States Army Chorus. After his tour of duty ended, Mr. Shirley moved to New York, where his career really began to soar. He made his debut performing with a small opera troupe in Woodstock, NY in their production of Die Fledermaus.
Mr. Shirley won the Metropolitan Opera Auditions in 1961 with an awesome performance of Nessun dorma, becoming ‘The Met’s’ ‘first’ African American tenor to sing leading roles. He remained a mainstay with ‘The Met,’ for 11 seasons.
Adding to his impressive portfolio, the virtuoso of versatility has recorded with RCA, Columbia, Decca, Angel, Vanguard, CRI and Philips Records. In 1968, he received a Grammy Award for his RCA recording of the role of Ferrando in Mozart’s Cosi fan tutte.
When Mr. Shirley performed the role of Sportin’ Life in Gerhwin’s opera Porgy and Bess in the Bregenz Festival in Austria, it was the ‘first’ time in his lengthy career that he performed the role in a staged production of what is arguably America’s most famous verismo opera.
Continuing with his penchant for setting records, Mr. Shirley was the ‘first’ African American to be appointed to a high school teaching position in music in Detroit.
His extensive list of accomplishments includes being selected one of the Distinguished Scholar-Teachers for the 1985-86 school year at the University of Maryland, College Park, where he served as Professor of voice from 1980 to 1987. In September, 1987, he was invited to join the faculty of the School of Music of the University of Michigan (U of M), Ann Arbor. At U of M’s July, 1992 meeting, the Board of Regents named Mr. Shirley the Joseph Edgar Maddy Distinguished University Professor of Music.
He holds honorary degrees from Wilberforce University, Montclair State College, Lake Forest College, and the University of Northern Iowa.
Among his many appointments and positions, Mr. Shirley served as a Senior Fellow in the University of Michigan Society of Fellows. He is a member of Alpha Phi Alpha, Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia, Pi Kappa Lambda, Phi Kappa Phi, and the Omicron Delta Kappa, along with a plethora of other universities and organizations.
Mr. Shirley is married to the former Gladys Lee Ishop and they have two children, Olwyn and Lyle.
8. BLACK MARRIAGE DAY - MARCH 30TH:
www.firstthings.org
www.blackmarriageday.com
On March 30, First Things First will join more than 200 organizations and places of worship across the country to celebrate Black Marriage Day. National organizers have set a goal to have 5,000 African American married couples across America renew their sacred vows.
First Things First is urging local churches and organizations to encourage couples to show their support of marriage by conducting a vow renewal ceremony on that day.
The black community is in need of a legacy of strong healthy marriages, said Dr. Rozario Slack, director of Marriage, Fathering, and Family Initiatives. We encourage local churches to demonstrate their support for marriage in celebration of Black Marriage Day.
Marriage in the African American Community is on the decline. Today, African Americans have the lowest marriage rate of any racial group in the United States. According to the U.S. Census, 43.3 percent of black men and 41.9 percent of black women in America have never been married. In 30 years, the overall marriage rate in the United States declined by 17 percent, but for African Americans, it fell by 34 percent.
It is estimated that 80 percent of all African American children will spend their childhood living apart from their fathers. While an estimated seventy percent of African American children are born to unmarried mothers.
First Things First wants to send a message to the next generation of black couples that long lasting marriages are important, said Dr. Slack.
There are many ways to celebrate Black Marriage Day 2008. FTF encourages people to exhaust their creativity and offer programs that reach a range of the black community to include couples, singles and youth.
9. DISMAL HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATION RATES VIOLATE FLORIDA CONSTITUTION, SAYS ACLU LAWSUIT:
Palm Beach County Reflects Disturbing National Crisis
WEST PALM BEACH, FL – Charging that shamefully low high school graduation rates demonstrate a violation of students’ constitutional right to a high quality education, the American Civil Liberties Union filed a first-of-its-kind class action lawsuit today against the Palm Beach County School District. It is estimated that as many as one in three Palm Beach County students does not graduate on time with a regular diploma, a figure that is well below both the state and national averages. This case is the first legal challenge in the country that focuses on the issue of low graduation rates and that requires a school district to graduate more of its students.
“If Palm Beach County is not graduating a third or more of its students, it is by definition providing an inadequate education,” said Chris Hansen, a senior staff attorney with the ACLU. “Unfortunately, this is just one example of a larger disturbing trend of poor graduation rates across the country.”
The ACLU’s legal challenge, filed on behalf of parents and students in the district, charges that the Palm Beach County School District violates the state constitution’s declaration of the “fundamental value” of educating children and the right that free public education be “uniform, efficient, safe, secure and high quality.” The ACLU is not seeking additional funding or any specific remedial measures, only that the school district improves its graduation rates without pushing students out of the system. The lawsuit also seeks to put in place a uniform and reliable graduation rate calculation that accurately accounts for every student enrolled in Palm Beach County’s high schools. Currently, there are multiple, inconsistent graduation rate measures that are inaccurate and inflated.
In addition to low graduation rates among all students in Palm Beach County, there is a significant disparity between the graduation rates of African-American and Hispanic students and those of white students.
For the past five years, the gap between black and white graduation rates has remained approximately 30%, while the gap between Hispanic and white graduation rates has been about 20%. According to the ACLU’s legal challenge, the stark difference in graduation rates along racial lines is evidence enough of the school district’s constitutional violations. The lawsuit, however, aims to improve the graduation rates for all students enrolled in Palm Beach County.
“A high quality education for every child is not a luxury, but a constitutional requirement,” said Muslima Lewis, Director of the ACLU of Florida’s Racial Justice Project. “The Palm Beach County School District must be held accountable for upholding the Florida constitutional mandate to make high quality education a reality for all students, regardless of age, race, special needs, ethnicity or gender. Students and teachers in Palm Beach County deserve an environment that ensures success, not failure – the District owes it to them and to our community.”
Graduation rates are not just a problem in Palm Beach, but throughout the country. However, there are school districts with similar demographics that perform substantially better, proving that Palm Beach, too, can do better. For example, in 2004, using a respected methodology developed by the Harvard Civil Rights Project and the Urban Institute, the schools systems in Maryland’s Baltimore and Montgomery counties and Virginia’s Fairfax County had graduation rates slightly above 80 percent, compared to only 56.1 percent in Palm Beach County. Accordingly, Palm Beach County’s low high school graduation rate and the disparity between the graduation rate of African-American and Hispanic students and that of white students cannot be attributed to socio-economic status, immigrant status or student transfers to private schools.
High school dropouts are far more likely than graduates to be unemployed, in prison and living in poverty. A recent independent study reported last week in the Washington Post showed that high school dropouts in the District of Columbia stand to lose $615 million in lifetime earnings compared to graduates. The study also found that the city would save more than $20 million in health care costs if D.C.’s high school dropouts graduated.
Attorneys in today’s case are Hansen, Vanita Gupta and Larry Schwartzol of the ACLU Racial Justice Program, Lewis of the ACLU of Florida, Deborah N. Archer of the New York Law School Racial Justice Project and cooperating attorney Ramona Hupp.
A copy of the legal complaint in this case is available at: www.aclu.org/racialjustice/edu/34507lgl20080318.html
More information on the ACLU Racial Justice Program is available at: www.aclu.org/racialjustice/index.html
More information on the New York Law School Racial Justice Project is available at: www.nyls.edu/pages/5368.asp
10. THE REVEREND EDRENA HOUSTON BROWN ANNOUNCES CANDIDACY FOR SECRETARY/TREASURER FOR CHRISTIAN EDUCATION:
The Reverend Edrena Houston Brown announces her candidacy for the position of Secretary/Treasurer for Christian Education “2008.” She is an Itinerant Elder in the AME Church, the Eleventh Episcopal District. She is a graduate of Turner Theological Seminary at the Interdenominational Theological Center, Atlanta, Georgia where she earned the Master of Arts Degree in Christian Education.
My Father, the late Presiding Elder O.H. Houston, served proudly as the Chief Marshall for the Council of Bishops, and had served in that position for 27 years when he died 1996. Before his death, he inspired me to publish, The Cultural Connection Magazine “The Candidates Outlook” in promoting Candidates for Bishop and General Officers” in advertising and marketing their campaigns.
Rev. Edrena Houston Brown, MACE
11. YPD GIVES H.U.G.S. TO THE HOMELESS:
The bible says it’s more blessed to give than to receive and the youth of St. Paul A.M.E. Church, Lexington, Kentucky, put that saying to the test by giving H.U.G.S. to some needy people in Lexington.
Over the 2007 Christmas holiday, the YPD of St. Paul collected Hats, Underwear, Gloves and Socks (HUGS) from church members and friends.
The generosity was overwhelming with the YPD gathering five large garbage bags of clothes.
In February of this year the YPD personally delivered their supply of HUGS to a local outreach center where they personally passed out all the packages of hats, gloves, underwear and socks they had. The recipients of the gifts were so thankful that they personally thanked every young person and gave them real hugs and lots of praise.
For the young people, this was quite an experience and gave them a true understanding of how blessed they are.
12. NEW YORK CONFERENCE 2008 FOUNDER’S DAY REPORT:
By Mrs. Annette Webb, Dir. N Y Conference Board of CE
The Rev. Paul S. Owings, Chairman, NY Conference Board of CE
The First Episcopal District African Methodist Episcopal Church Christian Education Department Founder’s Day Celebration was held on Saturday, February 9, 2008 at the District Headquarters in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
The District’s youth, grades nine through twelve, were invited to participate in the 2008 Founder’s Day Essay Contest. The Essay Contest provided an opportunity for our youth to have input in the development of the First Episcopal District’s Inspirational Theme for the 2009 – 2012 Quadrennial Period. Contestants wrote essays based on a scripture and theme. Winners were selected by a Committee selected by the First District Christian Education Executive Director, Rev. Dr. James E. Deas, Sr.
The Quilt Contest encouraged youth, adults, young adults, and seniors to contribute in the creation of a quilt for each Presiding Elder District that honors our founding fathers and mothers of all 300+ local churches of the First Episcopal District. Presiding Elders, Pastors, Christian Education Chairpersons, Directors and local church members cooperated in completing quilts which detail our past history and project our future.
The New York Conference is proud to announce the following winners:
Essay Contest
First Place, 10th Grade
Torey Norris Clarkson, Age 14, St. Mark AME Church
Jackson Heights, NY, Jeanette Wade, CE Director
Rev. Howard H. L. Dill, Pastor
First Place, 11th Grade (tie)
Eunique Eaves, Age 16, St. Mark AME Church
Jackson Heights, NY, Jeanette Wade, CE Director
Rev. Howard H. L. Dill, Pastor
First Place, 11th Grade (tie)
Barry Paige, Age 16, First Bethel AME Church
New York, NY, Ms. Lois Knox, CE Director
Rev. Henry A. Belin, III, Pastor
The Grand Prize Essay winner was Barry Paige. The theme of his essay theme was “We Lift As We Climb.” His Scripture was Matthew 18:1 -5: “I tell you the truth, unless you change and become like little children you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.” This Scripture and theme will be used by the First District for the next four years.
Quilt Contest
First Place
Jamaica/Long Island Presiding Elder District
Presiding Elder Henrietta Fullard
Barbara Cheatham, District Chairperson
We will always go forth to serve!
13. BMG AWESOME INSIGHT NEWSLETTER - A CHURCH LEADER'S GUIDE TO COMMUNICATIONS:
*Lynette Hawkins
Are you ready to welcome someone who knows nothing about your church this Easter Sunday? I ask this question after being a first-time visitor at a church in Virginia. We checked three entrances before we found the entrance door to the sanctuary. Will this happen at your church? Keep in mind the guests who know very little about your church and the worship experience. How easy will it be to visit your congregation this Sunday?
Welcoming starts in the parking lot and goes all the way to Sunday School and post worship coffee hour. As we prepare for Resurrection Sunday in a very few days, let's make sure we are mindful that someone may appear who knows absolutely nothing about your church or denomination. As we strive to be even more faithful to the Great Commission, let's take a mental check list of how ready we are to welcome. After all research shows that Easter is one of the more popular times for unchurched people to visit church. Is your congregation ready?
Welcome to this issue of BMG Awesome Insight Newsletter. Whether you are trying to reach the "unchurched " in the community or you want to hear "awesome" more, this issue shares a few tips to help reach out.
As you know Easter is often a time when unchurched people decide to attend church. For some, that may mean wandering into a congregation where they know no one and have no knowledge of how things are done. The opportunity to renew our spirits and share our faith is here.
Let's make every effort to grow in our own understanding so we can even more readily share our faith with those that may not know Christ. Will Sunday Be Guest-Friendly? A Young Family May Be Seeking A Church Home.
Ponder this: Matt and Beth, parents of two toddlers, are thirty years old. Matt's family did not regularly go to church while Beth was once a member of the youth choir at her church. Both have been away from regular church attendance for more than 5 years. This week, Beth suggests to Matt that they attend church on Easter Sunday. Matt is a little hesitant because he can't remember much about church but he agrees to go along. Beth gets the kids ready. Will your church appear welcoming to Matt, Beth and the kids?
Get ready, get ready, company is coming this Easter! Matt and Beth are not alone. Easter is often a time of the year that unchurched people appear on church door steps. Does the outside sign say the time for worship? Are the worship times on the voicemail message and church website? Is it easy to figure out what door to enter? Is it clear where the church nursery is located? Are enough bulletins being printed? Can newcomers figure out what's going on and when to sit and stand during worship? In other words, will Matt and Beth feel like you were expecting them this Easter?
It's not too late. You still have time to make sure Matt, Beth and other guests sense the love of Jesus in all that you do this Easter.
Here are a few things you can do in the next few days.
- Update the outside marquee sign and church phone voicemail with worship times
- Clean up outside and beautify the lawn before Sunday.
- Stand in the parking lot and ask yourself, "Will guests be able to find their way in?"
- Clear out the clutter in the entrance/narthex and create a welcoming entrance. Ask yourself, "Is this area welcoming into the worship experience?"
- Assign friendly greeters to all entrance doors of the church and parking lot.
- Plan a time during the worship service for guests and members to greet. For some congregations this may already be a part of the service.
- Instruct ushers to be on alert for new faces.
- Seat guests with friendly members to connect with others.
- Take a second look at the bulletin and explain any insider words and communion (if appropriate). Print extra copies of the bulletin to insure that there are enough bulletins for everyone.
- Instruct liturgist or worship leader to explain any insider words that may be unfamiliar to those visiting.
- Plan a special welcome message for guests but do not make them feel awkward by standing and saying "what church they are from."
Encourage members to stick around after worship service to welcome and greet guests.
Will Guests Come Back After Easter?
Be Ready to Invite Them Back. Often, visitors (guests) come to our church Easter and we never see them again. Sometimes it is because we don't capture their name to invite them back. I was at a church a few weeks ago and they had a wonderful greeters' ministry. They even planned a visitors' reception after worship but at no time did they get my name and contact information.
Before your guests leave this Easter, get their names, addresses and email addresses. Be ready to invite them back for the Spring Concert, Vacation Bible School or simply another worship service. If you have a guest book in the narthex, be sure ushers are monitoring to encourage guests sign in. If you're using pew pads or guest cards have enough and have them ready.
Welcome your Easter guests and extend the invitation to come back. Be ready to follow up and say thanks for coming. Prepare to invite guests back!
Is Your Church Creating Inward Puddles? Isn't Time to Break Outward into the Water?
The Reality: Studies reveal some Mainline Protestant Denomination Churches have declined by thousands of members in recent years. Some denominations' churches average less than one adult baptism per year. A third of the population has no spiritual home.
Our Dream: We dream of many churches turning outward to make disciples. We dream of ministry leaders creating action plans that include reaching out, inviting and welcoming those who are yet to come. We dream of equipping church leaders with practical ideas to reach the next generation of believers.
Used with permission of Lynette Hawkins, BMG Awesome Insight: info@awesomeinsight.com
14. ST. CHARLES “KICKS-OFF” A PROGRAM TO INTRODUCE A NEW GENERATION OF AME MEMBERS TO “ONE ANOTHER”:
Soccer On State founder and pastor of Faith Community AME Church, St. Charles, the Reverend Garry Moss, “kicks-off” a program to introduce a new generation of AME members to “one another” by conducting a one week summer camp for the Chicago conference in June.
As pastor of one of our newest churches, Pastor Moss has sought to “introduce”, “invite” and “include” young families to Faith Community in new ways. He was forced to look at church growth and development in new ways because in the Fox Valley where Faith Community is located, people of color have many choices when it comes to worship. Less than 2 miles from where Faith Community conducts worship services there are several non-denominational mega-churches with over 15,000 members. Most have on site departments that include youth activity zone complexes, sports programs and life enrichment centers that have everything from coffee bars to high-tech development centers. While it is true that a number of AME churches are beginning to take advantage of technology and to some degree church marketing, the fact remains that young adults with children know little about the AME church and in many cases never seek to learn more about it. As a result churches like Willow Creek, Christ Church, Harvest Church and Calvary Church continue to see a growing number of people of color attend and join.
A reality that we must face is that few families who belong to AME churches rarely if ever meet one another, let alone fellowship together. What better way to bring the new generation together than by allowing their children to fellowship together? This is what Moss hopes to change this summer and by using the highly successful Soccer On State program as the model, Pastor Moss will conduct a one week soccer camp for all Chicago area AME churches in June. Details can be obtained by sending an email to pastorgmoss@faithcommunityame.org or call 847-289-5000. If the camp is successful, Pastor Moss hopes to expand the week long soccer camp program nationally.
15. CONFERENCES WILL BID FAREWELL TO 16 BISHOPS:
A UMNS Report
By Linda Green*
Some United Methodist annual (regional) conferences meeting this spring and summer will say goodbye to retiring bishops and become better acquainted with the candidates they have endorsed to succeed them.
The 2008 meetings will be the last for 11 retiring U.S. bishops. In July, their successors will be chosen by jurisdictional conferences, and the new bishops will begin serving effective Sept. 1. In addition, five bishops from the central conferences - regions in Africa, Asia and Europe - will retire this year or next.
Annual conference is the second of three major church-wide events this year in the United States. The 2008 General Conference, the denomination's top legislative body, convenes once every four years and meets April 23-May 2 in Fort Worth, Texas. Afterwards, the church's 63 U.S. annual conferences meet individually during the spring and early summer, followed by the conferences for the five U.S. jurisdictions, which also convene once every four years, in July.
Bishops hold the top clergy positions in The United Methodist Church and are elected in the United States for life. Bishops in Africa, Europe and Asia are elected for a specific term, and if they are not re-elected, they return to the pastorate and are no longer considered a bishop. Bishops outside the United States who retire while serving their term are considered bishops for life.
Retiring U.S. bishops as of Aug. 31 include one Hispanic man, one African-American man, four white men, two African-American women and three white women.
Church law requires U.S. bishops to retire after jurisdictional conference if turning 66 on or before July 1 of the jurisdictional year. Outside of the United States, different disciplinary requirements dictate the mandatory retirement age for bishops.
A Task Force to Study the Episcopacy is asking the 2008 General Conference to increase the mandatory retirement age by two years to 68.
Four bishops in the central conferences also are retiring this year:
- Joseph Humper of Sierra Leone; Benjamin Justo and Solito Toquero of the Philippines; and João Somane Machado of Mozambique. The retirement of Bishop Øystein Olsen of the Nordic and Baltic Area of Europe is effective in 2009. Their successors will be chosen at their respective central conference gatherings, which are held at various times throughout the year.
Jurisdictional conferences
The North Central Jurisdiction Conference convenes July 15-19 in Grand Rapids, Mich. Delegates will elect a bishop to succeed retiring Bishop Sharon Brown Christopher.
The Northeastern Jurisdiction Conference meets July 16-18 in Harrisburg, Pa., and will fill three openings left by the retirements of Bishops Violet Fisher, Jane Middleton and Susan Hassinger. Hassinger has served as an interim bishop to fulfill the unexpired term of Bishop Susan Morrison, who retired in 2006 for health reasons.
When the delegates meet, they could decide to merge the episcopal areas of New York West and Albany, folding four conferences into one and reducing the number of bishops in the jurisdiction from 10 to nine. The proposed date for the change is 2010.
The South Central Jurisdiction meets July 16-19 in Dallas, where the retirements of four bishops will be on the agenda. Retiring are Bishops Benjamin Chamness, William Hutchinson, Joel Martinez and Alfred Norris. Norris has been serving as interim bishop since 2006 following the death of Bishop Rhymes Moncure.
The Southeastern Jurisdiction Conference convenes July 16-19 in Lake Junaluska, N.C., where delegates will elect a bishop to succeed retiring Bishop J. Lawrence McCleskey.
The Western Jurisdiction Conference meets July 16-19 in Portland, Ore., and will fill two openings being left by the retirement of Bishop Beverly Shamana and the voluntary resignation of Bishop Edward Paup. Paup was elected March 11 to lead the United Methodist Board of Global Ministries, the church's mission agency, effective Sept. 1.
Annual conferences
The annual conference is the "basic unit" of the church, according to the denomination's Book of Discipline. It may include an entire state, part of a state or even parts of two or more states. In addition, three U.S. missionary conferences rely on the denomination for funding.
During the annual conference gatherings in the United States, Africa, Europe and the Philippines, one-year appointments of all conference clergy members are announced. New deacons and elders are ordained, candidates for ordination approved, and special projects and ministries recognized. A bishop presides over each annual session.
The first session of 2008 conference gatherings was held in February when the Northwest Philippines Conference convened. The U.S. gatherings begin in May when the Red Bird Missionary Conference convenes May 9-10 in Coalgood, Ky., and will conclude June 22 with the adjournments of the California-Pacific Annual Conference in Redlands, Calif., and the Oregon-Idaho Annual Conference in Moscow, Idaho.
*Reprinted with the permission of the United Methodist News Service
16. JACKIE ROBINSON FOUNDATION EDUCATION AND LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM APPLICATION DEADLINE IS MARCH 31, 2008:
The Program Provides Four-Year Scholarships for Higher Education and Leadership Development Training
February 11, 2008 New York—Applications for the Jackie Robinson Foundation Education and Leadership Development Program are now available exclusively online at the Foundation’s website, www.jackierobinson.org. Completed applications must be submitted by 11:59pm ET on March 31, 2008
The Foundation, established in 1973 to perpetuate Jackie Robinson’s pioneering legacy, provides four year college scholarships to minority students with records of academic achievement, leadership capacity, civic engagement and financial need. More than financial assistance, the Education and Leadership Development Program offers all Jackie Robinson Foundation scholarship recipients a comprehensive set of support services including mentoring, networking opportunities, career exploration programming and practical life skills training. Jackie Robinson Foundation Scholars may use the award at the four year college or university of their choice.
Last year nearly 3,000 students from across the country applied for the prestigious scholarship. Jackie Robinson Foundation Scholars are chosen by regional selection committees consisting of academic, corporate and civic leaders. The rigorous and highly selective admission process includes an interview and several essays.
This academic year, the Foundation is providing $3.1 million in scholarship support and programmatic assistance to 259 Jackie Robinson Foundation Scholars at 93colleges and universities. Jackie Robinson Foundation Scholars are drawn from across the nation, representing 30 states. Since the inception of the program, Jackie Robinson Foundation Scholars have maintained a remarkable 97% graduation rate, more than twice the national average for minority students. The Foundation has provided more than 1,200 scholarships in its history. Jackie Robinson Foundation Alumni go on to become part of a dynamic Alumni Association whose ranks include the first African American golfer in the Ivy League, an internationally touring classical pianist who was a former Miss America runner-up, a partner at a leading Wall Street investment bank and scores of doctors, teachers and lawyers.
Applicants and parents should visit the Foundation’s website at www.jackierobinson.org for additional information. Corporate and individual donors interested in sponsoring Jackie Robinson Foundation Scholars should contact the Foundation at (212) 290-8600.
17. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
The Rev. Mary W. Robinson's sister died on March l7, 2008 in Pensacola Florida. Sister Margaret Owens was the pastor's eldest beloved sister and was a life long member of Zion Hope Primitive Baptist Church, Pensacola, Florida.
Joe Morris & Son's Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
Services will be March 20, 10:00 AM at Zion Hope Primitive Baptist Church, 201 West Leonard Street, Pensacola, Florida 3250l. Internment will be at the Pensacola Naval Station.
Addresses:
Joe Morris & Son's Funeral Home
706 North Devilliers Street
Pensacola, Fl 3250l
Phone: (850) 432-3436
Fax: (850) 433-4179
Zion Hope Primitive Baptist Church
201 West Leonard Street
Pensacola, Fl 3250l
18. 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
19. 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
