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
1. STATEMENTS MADE AT THE GRADUATION CEREMONY MY GRANDSON, CALVIN V:
“It's foolish to expect your ship to come in if you haven't sent one out.”
“Little lies are no more harmless than big ones.”
“Fear wears many masks.”
From the graduation speech of Dr. Timothy J. Sullivan, graduation speaker at the Hampton Roads Academy Dr. Sullivan previously served as the President of William and Mary.
2. FOR ALL OF THE GENERAL CONFERENCE INFORMATION:
http://www.ame-church.com/news-and-events/general-conference/quadrennial08.php
3. THE DEPARTMENT OF GLOBAL WITNESS AND MINISTRY AND DR. GEORGE FLOWERS PERSONALLY CONTRIBUTE TO THE DISASTERS IN MYANMAR AND CHINA:
The Department of Global Witness and Ministry and 37 other Heads of Mission of other denominations each have committed to giving $30,000 to the Church World Service and ACT to aid in donating food, water supplies and shelter for China and Myanmar. Dr. George Flowers also gave $3,000 as a personal contribution to help in purchasing blankets, carts, and other commodities for both Regions.
4. PRESS RELEASE: BROOKINS HONORED WITH STREET RE-NAMING:
Los Angeles – On Sunday, June 8, 2008 the City of Los Angeles will honor Bishop H. H. Brookins by renaming the intersection of 49th Street and Gramercy Place as “Bishop Hamel Hartford Brookins Square.”
The son of a Yazoo, Mississippi sharecropper, Brookins was educated at Wilberforce University, Payne theological Seminary and the University of Kansas. After graduating from the University of Kansas, Brookins was thrust into the civil rights arena in 1954 in the wake of hostile reactions by Wichita citizens to the historical Supreme Court decision, Brown vs. the Board of Education.
From Kansas, Brookins was appointed pastor of the prestigious First AME Church of Los Angeles where he was a major force in quelling the Watts riots of 1965. Also, he relocated FAME to its present multi-million dollar sanctuary and added hundreds of names to its membership roll, including the late Mayor Tom Bradley. Using his political acumen and skill, he played a leading role in Bradley’s historic election
At the 1972 General Conference of the African Methodist Episcopal church, he was elected the 91st Bishop of the African Methodist Episcopal Church and assigned to the 17th Episcopal District encompassing five Central African countries. While in Africa, he joined the struggle against apartheid and as a consequence, Brookins was barred from Rhodesia in 1975 by the government.
Returning to the U.S., Brookins served and revitalized the 5th Episcopal District by purchasing and building new churches and sending ministers to organize new churches in Southern California. In 1977, he founded Brookins Community African Methodist Episcopal Church to meet the needs of the residents of South Los Angeles. Brookins organized the purchase of the building at 4831 Gramercy Place and “borrowed” nine members from First AME Church to get the congregation started. For two months, he serves as pastor before appointing the Rev. Dr. T. Larry Kirkland to lead the congregation.
Councilman Bernard Parks says of Bishop Brookins, “Your dedication to helping others will be spoken of for some time to come and the admiration for your accomplishments is felt by all of us within the community.”
The public is invited to this special occasion. The ceremony will take place at 3 p.m. For more information, call 323-299-9273
5. RESPONSE TO ATLANTA JOURNAL- CONSTITUTION ARTICLE, "MORE AME, OTHER MINISTERS ARE FEMALE":
Dr. Joseph Darby
The Democratic Presidential campaign battle has raised the specter of race to the top of the agenda in America’s court of public opinion. The news media have recounted allegations of Senator Hillary Clinton playing the "race card," voters terrified by the words of Dr. Jeremiah Wright and speculation that white, middle class voters won’t vote for Senator Barack Obama because of his race. That familiar debate, which highlights the need to address America’s most nagging issue, also led me to reflect upon what is still an unspoken but concrete issue in the African Methodist Episcopal Church.
Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor recently included an article from the Atlanta Journal Constitution in the online edition of The Christian Recorder noting the ordination of the Reverend Lola Russell, one of 31 female ordinands in a class of 35 ordinands. I celebrate my clergy sister’s accomplishment, and I offer it as a point of reflection for those who wonder why America still has contentious debates and strange attitudes on race. If we dare to be honest, then we’ll admit that similar contentious debates and strange attitudes still revolve around women in ministry in the African Methodist Episcopal Church. I realized that when I visited two events in the same week last year.
The first event was a Charleston, SC public meeting on a school board decision that divided our community along racial lines. The second was an Episcopal District meeting that included an Episcopal campaign speech by an aspirant who also happened to be a woman. My personal epiphany, after reflecting on what many of my white neighbors said at the public meeting and on what many of my male colleagues said while that Episcopal aspirant was speaking, was stunning because of the similarity in what was said. I realized that what a lot of white folk quietly say about black folk mirrors what a lot of male clergy quietly say about female clergy. Consider some of the things I’ve quietly heard said about Women in Ministry by their male colleagues, for the same things are often said when some unenlightened white folks talk about black folks:
"A few of them are alright, but too many of them are coming in and trying to rise too high."
"If we’re not careful, they'll take over."
"Not a lot of them are ‘qualified’ for top positions."
"We don't know what they really want."
"They like to stay to themselves and talk among themselves - I wonder what they're talking about - I wonder if they're talking about us?"
“Why does there have to be a special group for Women in Ministry? There's no group for Men in Ministry."
Those statements reflect sad realities of human nature that transcend lines of race and gender. Human nature makes all of us seek power, fight hard to hold onto power and view those who aspire to achieve - especially if they’re not - "like us" - as threats to our power. Those statements are especially sad for those of us in the African Methodist Episcopal Church, who claim to be a "liberating and reconciling people" being saved by God’s grace.
The reality is that when it comes to vocational achievement, the strategies embraced by women in ministry reflect the strategies traditionally embraced by African-Americans. Our sisters in ministry are more likely than many of their male counterparts to pursue the graduate education required for ordination and professional advancement and to fight hard to achieve professionally, knowing that the barriers to their doing so are formidable. As a long time member of Boards of Examiners, I can state that without reservation. They’ve also, sadly, learned the political "ropes" in the church as well as black folks in America and now have their own internal "turf" struggles. Some of my more frank sisters in ministry have told me so.
I offer the thoughts herein as we head toward another General Conference, where the work of the Lord will no doubt again be subordinate to the politics of the church. It’s my hope and prayer that when we approach issues of race, gender and church politics, we’ll remember the admonition of the Apostle Paul to the church in Rome: "Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world - let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think." (Romans 12:2a)
When we adopt that mindset, hold others to that grace driven standard and assertively correct those who quietly make prejudicial statements of any kind, then we can change the church and change America’s racial climate - see you in Saint Louis!
*Dr. Joseph Darby is the pastor of Morris Brown AME Church in Charleston, South Carolina
6. NINE PRIMARY SCHOOLS IN LORAIN, OHIO COLLECT SCHOOL SUPPLIES FOR PRIMARY SCHOOLS IN 18TH DISTRICT:
Last week in Maseru Lesotho, Supervisor Claytie Davis, Jr., returned from the Posong (Post Office) with the nine boxes of medical supplies, feminine hygiene items, and school supplies sent from the United States on April 21st. This “Christmas in May” gift was made possible because of the Southern Africa initiative of Bishop Earl McCloud and Episcopal Supervisor Pat Russell McCloud, Esq., for the 18th District.
The “Christmas in May” boxes included gifts from nine elementary schools in Lorain, Ohio where elementary children found joy in collecting and donating school supplies for children their ages in Africa whom they did not know nor whom they may never meet. Nonetheless, because of the efforts of Frank Jincto Elementary, Garfield Elementary, Irving Elementary, Lakeview Elementary, Larkmoor Elementary, Henlen Steiner Rice Elementary, Toni Morrison Elementary, Palm Elementary and Washington Elementary Schools, the children at the 35 primary schools in Lesotho and Swaziland have enough school supplies for this final semester of the 2008 school year and for the entire 2009 school year. We thank Dr. Cheryl L. H. Atkinson, Superintendent of Schools in Lorain City, for allowing the children to be a part of “joining hands across the seas” with our children here in the 18th through the efforts of Bishop and Supervisor McCloud. In addition to the these gifts, the 18th District also received $ 2,650.00 which Bishop Davis designated for the AME Schools fund in Lesotho for scholarships and for specified furnishings at the Hhohho Primary School in Swaziland.
Bishop Earl McCloud and a group of ten persons visited the 18th Episcopal District the first weekend of May and went specifically to the Selulasandla Vashti AME Village to meet our children orphaned by HIV/AIDS. While visiting the Village the group was given a tour by the Village Support Team’s Manager, Brother Malungisa Dlamini, who shared some of the challenges of transport with the group. Upon hearing how our some of our children have to walk 1 to 2 hours to get to school and how the mothers must get public cumbies to do grocery shopping and/or to take our children to and from the Baylor Clinic for weekly treatments, Bishop McCloud pledged a 15 passenger vehicle to the Selulasandla Vashti AME Village by the next school year which begins in January 2009.
To God be the glory for all He continues to do “for the sake of the children.”
Bishop Sarah Davis
Presiding Prelate, 18th Episcopal District
7. ALPHA KAPPA ALPHA SORORITY, INC., EDUCATION ADVANCEMENT FOUNDATION ASSISTS THE 18TH DISTRICT:
There are many challenges in managing the Selulasandla Vashti AME Village (three orphan homes, with a maximum capacity for 36 children) in Swaziland. In addition to providing support for medical, clothing, food, utility and staff salary needs, there is also the important need for educational support. “The education of our children is one of the most important necessities we can provide them and it must not be compromised,” states Bishop Sarah. The 18th District leadership works diligently to ensure all twenty-one children of the Village attend school. School is not free in Swaziland, thus tuition, school fees, uniforms and extra-curricular activity fees are expenses Bishop Sarah F. Davis and the Board of Directors of the Village struggle to pay on an annual basis. As the Village seeks to secure funding to accommodate fifteen more children, the need for educational funding is even more challenging.
Bishop Sarah is all smiles when she speaks of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. (her sorority) Educational Advancement Foundation’s (EAF)) gift of $12,000.00 to the 18th District earlier this year. The money is being used to fund the 2008 educational costs for the children orphaned by HIV/AIDS at the Village. The school year in Swaziland is divided into two terms (January to mid-April and May to mid- December). The first term’s tuition was paid in January and the District is now happy to report that all balances have been paid for the second term.
The 18th District has twenty-one children at its Selulasandla Vashti AME Village and funding has been provided solely by the 18th Episcopal District and gifts from individual donors. This gift allows “ALL TWENTY-ONE” children at Selulasandla Village to attend school the entire year with the necessary uniforms, school supplies, and activity fees. The Selulasandla Village children are enrolled in four different high schools and one primary school in Mbabane, Swaziland. The tuition for high school students is the highest at $650- $725 per year. The primary school tuition ranges from $125 - $225 per year.
The 18th District’s Episcopal leadership and the entire 18th District family thank God for EAF and Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. This much needed gift helps to advance their efforts to give the children what they so desperately need. Gratitude is extended to Episcopal Supervisor Pat Russell McCloud, Esq., who made this all possible; and also to the EAF’s Executive Director Deborah L. Dangerfield and the Centennial President of Alpha Kappa Alpha, Sorority, Inc., Barbara McKinzie, Esq., for the encouragement this gift brings to the Village and the 18th District.
Bishop Sarah Davis
Presiding Prelate, 18th Episcopal District
8. BISHOP JOHN HURST ADAMS PREACHES, TEACHES AND LEAVES GIFT OF OVER $ 30,000 FOR THE SELULASANDLA VASHTI AME VILLAGE DURING THE 18TH EPISCOPAL DISTRICT’S MID-YEAR CHRISTIAN EDUCATION EMPOWERMENT CONFERENCE:
The Eighteen Episcopal District of the AME Church under the leadership of the Bishop Sarah Frances Davis opened its annual Mid-Year Christian Education Empowerment Conference with the theme of “Managing Well: Our Time, Our Talents, and Our Resources”. As in the past three years, this year's Conference was filled with the very best preachers, teachers and workshop facilitators from around the globe. Each was effective in motivating the District attendees to manage well their time, talents and resources.
The 87th Bishop of the African Methodist Episcopal Church, the Right Reverend John Hurst Adams (retired), preached the opening worship and communion service, but not before he presented Bishop Sarah Davis with a check for $30,006.00 to construct and furnish an Administrative Block at the Selulasandla Vashti AME Village, Swaziland. The administrative block will allow the freeing up of the office space currently taken in one of the homes, so that living space can be made available for additional orphans and vulnerable children.
On Thursday, Bishop Adams addressed the clergy of the 18th District. He challenged the clergy with the topic: “Managing Well Your Call to Ministry.” When the session was over, the Clergy group wanted Bishop Adams to continue beyond the workshop time to answer questions and share with them. Words of gratitude given by Reverend I. Motselebane, (P.E.), conveyed the general consensus of appreciation and honor felt by everyone because of Bishop Adams’ presence and sharing in the 18th Episcopal District.
Dr. Dolly D. Adams (Retired Supervisor) was the speaker at the workshop session for all members of the Women Missionary Society addressing: “Managing Well the Women’s Missionary Society.” Dr. Adams shared the “Steps to Inclusion” and the ways and means of involving more women in the Women’s Missionary Society. She stressed the importance of women being involved in meeting the needs of the church and the community.
An additional highlight of the Conference was the WMS banquet held in the Castle Hotel (the first Conference wide banquet held by the WMS of the 18th District) where Dr. Dolly Adams was the keynote speaker. Dr. Adams challenged everyone present to make the little they have go a long way.
Each morning at 08h00, the Reverend Sharon Jaye Grant, currently a doctorial student at Southern Methodist University, Dallas, Texas, taught the 2008 CEEC Bible Study with focus on the Conference theme: “Managing Well: our Time, our Talent and our Resources.” The Reverend Grant used the parable of the Talents at Matthew 25: 19-30 for her Scriptural reference for the morning Bible Studies. She was profound, relative and clear as she taught the importance of “Relationship, Responsibility and Results” in the lives of believers. Reverend Grant also preached the closing worship service on Saturday and brought the District to its feet as she preached with power and relevance.
Medical doctor, Dr. Themba Ntiwane, conducted the plenary session on “Living a Healthy Life.” Dr. Ntiwane discussed the impact of diet, exercise, rest and stress on our health. He also stressed the impact of high blood pressure, cholesterol and diabetes on the lives of people of color.
In addition to the workshop sessions, the conference schedule provided time for component groups of the District to meet. Travel time to District meetings can take up to twenty hours for some of constituents, therefore on occasions when everyone comes together, all components are given time to share information.
Prior to the closing of the conference dignitaries and attendees had an opportunity to visit the Selulasandla Vashti AME Village. This was the first visit for Bishop Adams since his initial participation in the dedication of the three homes for children orphaned with HIV/AIDS in 2002. He was pleased to see that the Village had grown from the 4 orphans in 2002 to the current 21 orphans and vulnerable children. A big smile came across his face as he gazed upon the Florida house (one of three homes) which was so named to honor the members of the 11th District who provided the funding for construction of the Florida House, when he served as the Presiding Prelate of the 11th Episcopal District.
Prior to leaving the conference, Bishop Adams congratulated Bishop Davis for the exemplary work the she has done in the 18th District.
Rev. Paul Shimunza, Director of Music for the 18th District, presided over the annual Music Competitions on Friday night.
Botswana, Swaziland, and Lesotho were each represented by outstanding conference choirs. However, after the all the singing was completed, the Botswana Conference choir took home the first place trophy much to the dismay of the host Swaziland Conference choir and members.
Our Episcopal Director of Christian Education, Presiding Elder Albert B. Thawla, thanked the Bishop, facilitators and attendees for making this the best Christian Education Empowerment Conference to date. Bishop Sarah thanked him and his team for their untiring service and excellent planning again this year.
Bishop Sarah Davis
Presiding Prelate, 18th Episcopal District
9. BISHOP SARAH DEDICATES NEW CHURCH IN MOKHOTLONG, LESOTHO:
The Lesotho Annual Conference has a new Church building in the mountains of the Kingdom of Lesotho. Immediately following the dedication of the Tsepong Cecelia Williams Bryant Village Home in Mokhotlong, Lesotho, Bishop Sarah Frances Davis, the Allen Temple AME Church family and many from the Mokhotlong community moved approximately fifty yards south of the T’sepong Cecelia Williams Bryant Village Home for the ribbon cutting and dedication of Allen Temple AME Church.
The church, which is built in the traditional rondaval style of architect that is prevalent in the country of Lesotho, was completed approximately one year ago. Allen Temple A.M.E. Church was designed and constructed by Rev. Moses Thabane, members of Allen Temple A.M.E. Church and with assistance of students from Baldwin Wallace University who came and worked alongside the church members. The sojourners from Baldwin Wallace have been to Lesotho twice during this quadrennial and were under the leadership of the Reverend Mila Cooper, Baldwin Wallace Director and member of the 3rd E.D. Allen Temple AMEC was made with stones collected on the property and concrete made of sand from the river which runs along the edge of the property. The windows, doors and roofing materials were the only items that had to be purchased to build the church structure.
After the ribbon cutting ceremony, those gathered moved into the church for the worship services. Approximately 300 worshipers attempted to gather in the new sanctuary which was built to seat 200.
Prior to the sermon, the District Administrator, the Honorable Member of Parliament, and the Principal Chief of the Mokhotlong District (representing His Majesty King Letsie III) addressed those in attendance. Principle Chief Seeiso thanked the Reverend Moses Thabane and Bishop Davis for the work they are doing to meet the physical as well as the spiritual needs of the community.
At the appointed time, Presiding Elder Paulina Mokhosi of the North District, (former Presiding Elder of the Allen Temple congregation), brought the message for the Dedication service encouraging everyone to pursue the unusual and believe that it will come to pass.
A big feast was awaiting everyone following the service.
Bishop Sarah Davis
Presiding Prelate, 18th Episcopal District
10. T’SEPONG CECELIA WILLAIMS BRYANT VILLAGE HOME DEDICATED ON MAY 11, 2008, MOTHER’S DAY IN MOKHOTLONG, LESOTHO:
Mokhotlong, Lesotho made history and news on Sunday, May 11, 2008, Mother’s Day, with its dedication of the first African Methodist Episcopal Church orphanage in Lesotho and also, the first live-in orphanage in Mokhotlong, Lesotho. At 10:00 a.m. the Tsepong Cecelia Williams Bryant Village Home for children orphaned by HIV/AIDS was dedicated before many in the mountains of Mokhotlong.
The Honorable Member of Parliament Mr. Tsehlana Lehlonolo, Principal Chief Mathealira Seeiso of the Mokhotlong District, the District Land Administrator Mrs. Makhopso Tsita, and other members of the District and local government as well as Presiding Elder Ephaim T. Ntokoane, P. E. Paulina Mokhosi (former P. E. of the Mokhotlong District), pastors, preachers and members of the AME Church were all present to watch as Bishop Sarah Frances Davis dedicated the Tsepong Cecelia Williams Bryant Village Home. The newly constructed home is the first facility to be built in the Mokhotlong District designed to cater to the rising population of children orphaned and left homeless as a result of the pandemic HIV/AIDS epidemic that has ravaged an estimated 30% of the population.
The home, which was the vision of Pastor Moses Thabane of Allen Temple AME Church, Mokhotlong, will ultimately be home to 18 children orphaned by HIV/AIDS. The project was funded with the $ 106,000.00 (USD) gift given by Reverend Dr. Cecelia Williams Bryant and members and friends of the Fifth Episcopal District of the AME Church, in December 2006. This home is the first of several homes to be built in the Tsepong Village to meet the growing need for orphans in the mountains.
During the dedication service, Bishop Davis spoke of how Rev. Thabane first approached her in 2004 when she arrived in Lesotho, explaining the changing environment in the mountainous region of Lesotho. Children of parents infected with the HIV/AIDS virus were no longer being provided for and were being left to fend for themselves. In a region that is more than 3500 meters (approximately 2.25 miles) above sea level with temperatures near or below freezing more than six months of the year it is a hard place for even adults to live. Children here are left to raise younger siblings, which is not at all uncommon in many parts of Southern Africa. However, the mountains of Lesotho present a much more difficult/brutal environment. The Reverend Moses Thabane explained that neither the government nor any other organization in the area was doing anything to meet the needs of these young people and that he felt that the Church had to step up and do something. Thus, his vision was born.
Bishop Davis went on to stated how she had shared Pastor Thabane’s vision with friends and members of the African Methodist Episcopal Church and God touched their hearts and helped them to see the vision, too. Thus, the vision is now a reality “as we stand today to dedicate this home to the glory of God for the care and well being of our children”. Bishop Sarah invited the community to become active supporters of the children and the Village as this is a home not just for AME children orphaned by HIV/AIDS, but any child so impacted. The Bishop further encouraged cooperation of the District Land Administrator to allocate additional land to Allen Temple AME Church for the continuation of the project and “for the sake of the children.”
This was a great Mother’s Day and a great day for orphans and vulnerable children of Mokhotlong.
Bishop Sarah Davis
Presiding Prelate, 18th Episcopal District
11. EBENEZER AMEC CAME TO THE 18th DISTRICT’S SELULASANDLA VASHTI AME VILLAGE AND EMBRACED IT WITH SERVICE AND LOVE:
Thirty-nine members of Ebenezer AME Church, Fort Washington, Maryland, where the Reverend Dr. Grainger and the Reverend Dr. Jo Ann Browning are pastors, arrived via bus in Swaziland on Saturday, May 17th. The focus of the group was on servicing the needs of the Village and sharing lots of love to the orphan and vulnerable children who live in the Village. Leaders of the Ebenezer group were the Reverend Jonathan Newton, Young Adult Minister; and Sister Janelle Carter, coordinator of the sojourn.
The majority of sojourners were young adults between the ages of 25-39 with three children ages 9-10, and other more matured adults who were visiting South African and Swaziland. In Swaziland, the sojourners worshipped with the Labotsibeni AME Church family on Sunday morning where the Reverend Solomon Nxumalo is pastor and also Presiding Elder of the Central District. Sunday was the only relaxing day for the group for Monday and Tuesday the sojourners worked non-stop in the Village.
Early Monday morning, after a moment of prayer at the hotel, Bishop Sarah and Supervisor Claytie Davis, Jr., led the sojourners to the Selulasandla Vashti AME Village to begin the two day work mission. The Selulasandla Vashti AME Village is home for 21 children orphaned by HIV/AIDS. The children live in three homes of the Village built in 2002 under the Episcopal leadership of Bishop Vashti and Supervisor Stan McKenzie. One of the three homes is also used for administrative offices.
The Village Board member and Episcopal Lay President, Brother Malungisa Dlamini had the paint, paint brushes, pint pans, and other working tools waiting for the group when they arrived in the Village. Sister Janelle Carter and Reverend Newton had previously met and discussed with Bishop Sarah their desire to come the Village to give service in ways that would make a difference for the children.
The teams of workers immediately separated themselves into crews for painting, cleaning, gardening, and handing inventory of supplies needed. Furniture was moved from the Florida House which was the first occupied home of the Village and the home most in need of maintenance and painting. One crew took out beds, washed and disinfected beds and mattresses; cleaned windows, floors, washed down walls and ceilings; sanitized the bathrooms and then began to paint. Sister Linda Banks made a list of supplies that were not on site and then Supervisor Claytie Davis, Jr., took her shopping for the needed items. Another crew went to the back yard and began to pull weeds and prepare the ground for planting. Before the Ebenezer group arrived there were three garden beds where vegetables for the Village were planted. After two days of work by the garden crew, the Village now has seven beds where the ground has been overturned, the weeds have been pulled out and the plants have been planted. The grounds man was all smiles as he watched what was weed, grass and rocks be transformed into rows of planted seedlings for cabbage, lettuce, spinach beets, squash, and lemons.
Brother Andrew Edwards looked over at the clothes lines which were leaning and in less than thirty minutes after all the hammering, cutting and nailing, four clothes lines for hanging clothes were solidly in place.
As the group waited for the children to return from school, the inventory and gift crews were busy in the Vashti House. There they had made a display of the books, toys, and games for the children. Additionally, Sister Madeline Foreman prepared inventory lists of all the books and training material which had been brought to the Village. The toys, new clothes, socks, and blankets and medical supplies which were not distributed were put away and inventoried for future distributions to the children in the Village.
During the short lunch break Monday, Bishop Sarah thought it fitting with Ebenezer AME Church members present to present a gift of E 10,000.00 to Pastor J. Mkhonta and Presiding Elder A. B. Thwala for the drilling of bore holes and the digging wells at the Church and School sites in the Sheseliweni District. The gift was made possible by a check in the amount of $ 1,000.00 from Ebenezer AMEC, Fort Washington, Maryland and checks in the amount of $ 100.00 each from Seaport Mission Baptist Church, San Pablo, California, and All Generations Baptist Church, El Sobrante, California. The Reverend Dr. Cecelia Williams Bryant, Episcopal Supervisor of the 5th Episcopal District, has been sharing the word of the need for water at schools in the 18th District where there is none, and so as we received these gifts, we recognize the gifts as fruit of Reverend Cee’s sharing with others. Pastor Mkhonta and Presiding Elder Thwala were very pleased and thankful for the gift.
Once the children arrived home from school pictures were taken and group sessions with the girls and the mothers were organized. The girls enjoyed talking with the young women about USA and other subjects while the Mothers were also afforded an audience with other in the group concerning care of children and homemaking.
Supervisor Claytie took Sisters Karen S. Fenton-LeShore and Azalia Hunt-Speight back to Labotsibeni AME Church that evening to meet with young people who had asked them to return for a dialogue session. Both women are professional counselors and involved in mentoring programs and leadership training.
What a marvelous two days it was for the Selulasandla Vashti AME Village. Before leaving on Tuesday evening after finishing all that they had purposed to do, the Reverend J. Newton and Sister J. Carter presented the Village with two Mango trees which were ceremoniously planted by Bishop Sarah, Supervisor Claytie Davis, Jr., the Reverend Newton and Sister J. Carter. The two mothers, children of the Village and the grounds man continued to add dirt to the trees before the dedication service ended. The Reverend Newton then presented a gift of $ 975.00 to Bishop Sarah Davis for use at the Village. Bishop Sarah thanked the group for coming and for making a difference in the lives of everyone in the Village. She also asked that Pastors Grainger and Jo Ann Browning be told how grateful she and Supervisor and the 18th District are that the Ebenezer Church family had come and shared in this mission work in the Village. At the end of the evening, no one wanted to leave, the children did not want to let the sojourners go, and not a dry eye was to be seen.
To God be the glory for all the wonderful things He continues to do through His own for His own.
Bishop Sarah Davis
Presiding Prelate, 18th Episcopal District
12. THE NEW JERSEY ANNUAL CONFERENCE HOLDS 136TH SESSION MARCH 5-MARCH 9, 2008:
*Written by the Rev. Teresa Lynn Rushdan, N.J. Conference Reporter
The New Jersey A.M.E. Annual Conference 2008 was held at the beautiful Sheraton Hotel Atlantic City and was hosted by the N.J. Conference Atlantic City District, Presiding Elder Richard T. Druid,(Senior Presiding Elder, Presiding Elders Cabinet) and Pastors.
Pre-conference activities began on Monday when the New Jersey Conference Evangelists gathered together from across the Garden State to give God praise. The guest preacher was the Rev. Dr. Robert C. Wade, Presiding Elder of the Camden-Trenton District and President of the New Jersey Council of Churches.
The Women’s Missionary Society (WMS) Day led by the effervescent and capable First Lady and Supervisor of the First Episcopal District Mother Mary Ann Norris convened on Tuesday. Mother Norris whose leadership and love for God’s people continues to inspire all who have met her is a dynamic, effervescent and gifted woman is a pioneer who also initiated the “Adopt a Missionary Child” program under the WMS Family Life Committee in New York.
The Missionary Society was blessed as their day was highlighted by the dynamic preaching gifts of the Reverend Evelyn Booze, pastor of New Bethel A.M.E. Church in Vineland and President of the Atlantic City District Evangelists.
Wednesday morning the preachers and laity of the African Methodist Episcopal Church convened in Atlantic City New Jersey for the 136th Session of the New Jersey Annual Conference.
The conference was led in the singing of Blessed Assurance led by Rev. Marion Sykes Johnson after which Presiding Elder; the Rev. Dr. Robert C. Wade gave the opening prayer followed by the reading of the 133rd Psalm by the Rev. Lynda T. Rassmann.
The 136th Session of the New Jersey Annual Conference was brought to order by its Episcopal Leader the Rt. Rev. Dr. Richard Franklin Norris, who is the respected and blessed 116th elected and consecrated Bishop of the African Methodist Episcopal Church and Presiding Prelate of the First Episcopal District. Bishop Norris also serves as Chairman of the Commission of Global Witness and Ministry.
As the Reverend Linda Ellerbe read the roll call, hundreds of ministers answered the roll including the following ministers who recently transferred from other conferences. They are the Rev. Michael Sturdivant, the Rev. Dorrian H. Schenck, the Rev. Jerome Stembridge, the Rev. Ronald Bellamy, the Rev. John Justice, the Rev. Jahkimmo Smith, the Rev. Kenneth Mitchum, the Rev. Miyoshi Taylor Schenck and the Rev. Hilton Holt.
The following names were tenderly referred to the Committee on memoirs the Reverends Lucretia Leonard, Edward Verner, MD, Fred Tennie, Virginia Martin, Stanley Thomas, Irene Watkins, Leslie Williams and Mrs. Carol Fubler.
Presiding Elder Wade of the Camden-Trenton District read the recommendation for the Organization of the 136th Session of the New Jersey Annual Conference Accountant- the Rev. Herbert L. Eddy, Conference Secretary- the Rev. Linda Ellerbe, Assistant the Rev. Fred Parrish, Statistical Secretary- the Rev. Vernard Leak, and Assistant the Rev. Deborah Brooks.
Recommendations were made for the Trials of Appeals, Marshals, Ministerial Efficiency Committee; the Rev. John Ragin Public Relations Director for the Connectional Council, the N.J. Conference Reporter, Judiciary Committee, Finance committee, Board of Trustees, Self Help Board and the bounds of the Conference was set.
The Morning Worship Service commenced when Bishop Norris, his cabinet of Presiding Elders (the Rev. Dr. Robert Wade, the Rev. M. Lloyd Guyton, the Rev. Richard T. Druid and the Rev. Dr. James E. Deas Sr.) and clergy regally processed into the ballroom of the Atlantic City Sheraton Hotel with all the grandeur of a royal coronation jubilantly singing “The Church is One Foundation” transforming a ballroom into a sanctuary.
The choir from Mt. Zion New Brunswick sang with joy and the Atlantic City Liturgical Dancers gave God praise as enthusiastic onlookers raised their voices and burst into gales of shouts and handclapping as each Presiding Elders District entered in under its own banner while the music swelled with triumphant sound.
Bishop Norris introduced the preacher for the Opening Day Worship Service. Chosen to preach this years Annual Sermon, was the Reverend Dr. Joseph Hooper, pastor of the great Mt. Zion A.M.E. Church of New Brunswick. With fire and compassion Dr. Hooper stirred the hearts of many by preaching from 2 Chronicles Chapter 20 the subject “Maintain Your Position Help is On the Way”. The crowd enthusiastically applauded and cheered as he delivered the Word.
At the Wednesday afternoon business session, Bishop Norris gave opportunity for the Rev. Dr. Jeffrey Leath, the 51st pastor of Historic Mother Bethel to address the conference as a candidate for Episcopal service and asked for the prayers and support of the Conference as well as the Rev. Reginald Jackson, pastor of St. Matthew A.M.E. Church in Orange, who also addressed the conference as a candidate for Episcopal service, stating that the “best is yet to come.” Bishop Norris encouraged the candidates to keep climbing and stated “it is a wonderful view from the mountain top.”
Another distinguished guest of the Conference was the Reverend Dr. Leah Gaskin Fitchue, President of the Payne Theological Seminary which currently has 135 enrolled students. Dr. Fitchue is the first woman to serve as President of Payne Theological Seminary, a 160-year old institution sponsored by the African Methodist Episcopal Church. She is the first African American woman president of the 244 Association of Theological Schools (ATS) and the first woman to serve as president of any historically black theological seminary. Fitchue encouraged pastors, leaders, and members of the A.M.E. Church to support Payne which also offers an on line programs for the Masters of Divinity and the Doctorate of Ministry. Dr. Fitchue also shared that Payne will shortly have a ground breaking ceremony for a new library
The Governor of the State of New Jersey Governor Jon Corzine who is considered a friend of the New Jersey Conference arrived at the conference to show his support of the ongoing efforts and works of the N.J. A.M.E. Conference. He was presented by the Rev Reginald Jackson who is the pastor of St. Matthew A.M.E. Church Orange, New Jersey and is a candidate for the Bishopric.
Governor Jon Corzine delivered a message of accountability, and right spending. He stated that he was privileged to be here again. He solicited our prayers, but beyond prayers he asked for our support. The governor stated “We have to deal with how we pay for the things we do”.
Time was allotted for questions to be asked from the floor. Gov. Corzine tactfully and willfully addressed issues such as tax increases, public safety, hospital closings, urban enterprise zones, the housing foreclosure crisis, and urban tax credits against corporate taxes. Bishop thanked the Governor for coming and pledged our support for those things that were right for the people of the Conference.
Wednesday evening worship was unforgettable as Bishop Wilfred J. Messiah, Presiding Prelate of the 20th District and President of the African Methodist Episcopal Church Council of Bishops preached for the Holy Communion Service an anointed and thought provoking sermon entitled “The Upper Room Experience: A Lesson in Christian Discipleship” His text was Mark 14:15 .
Mother Mary Ann Norris presented Mother Messiah with a generous check from the Women’s Missionary Society to encourage her many projects including Girl Child which deals with women’s issues such as rape, HIV/AIDS, child abuse, pregnancy and education for pregnant girls in Africa. After the presentation Bishop Messiah’s wife Mother Carol Isabella Messiah WMS Episcopal Supervisor shared words of wisdom to inspire to the hearts of the New Jersey Conference.
The Thursday Noonday Worship preacher was the Rev. Deborah K. Blanks, former United States Navy Chaplain and current Associate Dean of Religious Life and the Chapel at Princeton Theological Seminary. Rev. Blanks has a B.A. from Rutgers University, Douglass College, a Master of Theology degree from Princeton Theological Seminary, and a Master of Divinity degree from the Interdenominational Theological Center in Atlanta, Georgia. Rev. Blank’s preparation and preaching skill was heard as she preached “Doing God’s Business” using Haggai 2:1-9.
The Annual Lay Service held Thursday evening was a triumphant success as the New Jersey Conference carried the Connectional Theme “Refocusing Our Ministry to Serve the Present Age” Galatians 6:6-10. Presiding over the worship service was Sister Carol Lida, the New Brunswick District Lay President.
Sister Kemry McFarland (St. James, Ocean City) introduced Mother Mary Ann Norris who brought greetings with her effervescent smile. Bishop Norris was introduced by Brother Wilson Ross, President the New Jersey Conference Lay Organization.
Preaching for the Lay Service was the Rev. Lynda T. Rassmann, pastor of Grant A.M.E. Church, Chesilhurst. Rev. Rassmann who is the Director of the New Jersey Human Development Corporation recently became the first female to be elected President of the N.J. Conference A.M.E. Ministers Fellowship. Rev. Rassmann preached from her heart using Genesis 28:8 as her foundation, her subject being “When Your on Hold, God is about to Pull you Out”.
The Lay Service concluded with remarks being given by Sis. F. Jane Harris, President First Episcopal District Lay Organization, Bro. Wilson Ross, Presiding Elder Richard T. Druid and Bishop Richard Franklin Norris.
8:53 a.m. on Friday Morning: Sister Kitty Combs, the Rev. Vanessa Perry, Evangelist Pamela Underhill and Sister Shonda Short began the period of devotions. Bishop Norris called for the Camden -Trenton reports lead by Presiding Elder Dr. Robert Wade to be read. After the reading of the reports the Camden-Trenton clergy, ministers and laity burst into singing “Victory is Mine” led by the Rev. J. Stanley Justice, pastor of Mt. Zion A.M.E. Church, Trenton and President of the New Jersey Human Development Corporation.
The Rev. J. Stanley Justice asked for PE Wade to be returned the members sang Victory is Mine and Rev. Justice also asked the conference to support Rev. Mark Tyler who is a candidate for Historiographer for the Connection.
Bishop Norris reached into the pool of preachers from the Pennsylvania Conference for Fridays Noonday Hour of Power. Selected to bring the Word was Rev. Trevor Woolridge, pastor of Bethel A.M.E. Church Lansdowne, Penna. who preached with fire the text Jude Chapter 1 24-25 “Now unto him that is able to keep you from falling, and to present you faultless before the presence of his glory with exceeding joy. To the only wise God our Savior, be glory and majesty, dominion and power, both now and ever. Amen.”
Later Friday afternoon, the New Jersey Conference Board of Examiners (under the direction of the Rev. Reginald T. Jackson who serves as Chairman and the Rev. Kim Anderson, who serves as Dean of the Ministerial Training Institute) met to report to Bishop Norris and the New Jersey Annual Conference their recommendations regarding 82 students who are preparing for ministry in the African Methodist Episcopal Church.
The New Jersey Conference YPD demonstrated their gifts and talents in the Annual Youth of the Year Contest that features young people from each Presiding Elders District. This year winner is Brother Trevor Walker of the Camden-Trenton District.
The brilliance, beauty and grandeur of St. James A.M.E. Church, Atlantic City was an exquisite back drop for Saturdays Ordination Service where the Rev. Dr. James Coaxum III serves as the pastor.
The Choir sang several selections with great joy including “Yes God is Real” and “Faithful is our God”. Bishop Norris presented the preacher of the hour Bishop Gregory G.M. Ingram Presiding Prelate of the 10th Episcopal District drew his text from the book of Jonah Chapter 1:8 and 1Cor 9:16 and said “Woe if you don’t preach it and tell it”
With power Bishop Ingram preached a strong, supportive, relevant, and pertinent word. Bishop Ingram said “you have to be clear about your calling, you can’t preach what you don’t know, woe unto you if you preach, woe unto you if don’t take your calling seriously. You’ve got to give preaching all you’ve got.”
Other worship participants included, the Rev. Leonard Santucci, the Rev. Dr. Louis Attles, the Rev. Reginald McCrae, the Rev. Dietra Bell, the Rev. Alfonso Sherald, the Rev. Kim Anderson, the Rev. Mashod Evans, the Rev. Larry Dixon, the Rev. Michael Keene, the Rev. Dr. William Cody, the Rev. Joseph Hooper, the Rev. Deborah Blanks, the Rev. Dr. Kenneth Saunders, the Rev. Dr. William Watley, the Rev. Amir Ballard, the Rev. Jaspers Daniels, the Rev. Vernard Leak, the Rev. Danielle Hunter, the Rev. Jonathan Wade, the Rev. Jeffrey Johnson, the Rev. Dr. Stanley Hearst, the Rev. J. Coaxum III, and the Rev. Mark Tyler.
Bishop Norris (assisted by Bishop Ingram) ordained one Itinerant Elder, Charles Ramsey, (Mt. Zion, Trenton), two Itinerant Deacons Tresa Carter (Macedonia, Camden) and George Britt (St. Mark, East Orange), one local elder, Antoinette Farmer (Mt. Zion, New Brunswick) three Local Deacons, Blackmon Jackson (Mt. Zion, New Brunswick, Norman R. Nelson (Bethel, Freehold) and Melvin Johnson, (Mt. Zion Fenwick). In addition two women were consecrated as Deaconesses.
Something new this year was the YPD Olympics which were held at Pleasantville High School, Pleasantville, New Jersey. YPDers from across the state of New Jersey competed in various athletic competitions and performed great physical feats. Gales of laughter, hand clapping, whistles and cheers encouraged the many participants to victory. The first place for the Olympics went to the Newark District, second place to Atlantic City, third place to Camden-Trenton and fourth place went to the New Brunswick District.
Closing Day activities began with the Church School’s Working Theme: “Church School and Evangelism: A Marriage Made in Heaven”. The lesson for the day was “God Makes a Covenant with David” 1 Chronicles 17:1-15. The New Jersey Conference Church School Superintendent is the very effective and dedicated Brother Samuel A. Jones Jr., Sister Ellen Miller serves as the Director of the Board of Christian Education and the New Jersey Conference Chairman is the very capable the Rev. Dennis Hughes who is also the pastor of St. John A.M.E. Church, Jersey City.
The New Jersey Conference Church School Superintendents are Mrs. Beverly Ballard, Newark District, Mr. and Mrs. Walter and Catina Jackson, New Brunswick District, Ms. Henrietta Hill, Camden-Trenton District, and Ms. Donna Shorter, of the Atlantic City District.
The Closing and Commissioning Service was well attended and overflowed with people eager to see their pastor return and what pastor they would receive. Thunderously, the awaiting crowd sang “God of our Fathers” and praised the Lord seemingly with one unified voice.
On the final day of conference the following person’s requests for superannuation were granted. They were the Rev. Bernice Prescott, the Rev. Dr. William Cody, the Rev. Harry Ford Jr. and the Rev. Eleanor Melton.
Bringing the closing message was the Rev. William D. Watley, PhD, is pastor of the historic St. James A.M.E. Church, Newark. Dr. Watley (former Chief Officer and Secretary of the New Jersey Commerce & Economic Growth Commission for the State of New Jersey), author of more than sixteen books, is a seasoned and gifted preacher who passionately brought the crowd to its feet as he preached “When it Won’t Go Away” from Ruth 1:19-22.
Finally the chords of “A Charge to Keep I Have” rang out followed by “Go Preach My Gospel” and Bishop Norris began the reading of appointments.
After the of Hymn 219 “Go Forth, Ye Heralds” the Doxology was sung, the Benediction was given and the 136th Session of the New Jersey A.M.E. Annual Conference came to a rousing successful close.
*Written by the Rev. Teresa Lynn Rushdan, N.J. Conference Reporter
Photos for the print edition taken by the Rev. Teresa Lynn Rushdan and the Rev. Maria Domini
13. WARD AME CHURCH PHILADELPHIA MEMBER PENN STATE UNIVERSITY HONORS’ GRADUATE:
The family of Marian Mauti Dossou beamed with joy and pride as she was inducted into the Schreyer Honors College of Penn State University on May 16, 2008. Medals were presented to each of the graduates who completed the required number of credits at the University and were among the top 12% of the graduating class in their college.
To graduate with honors, Schreyer Scholars were required to maintain a record of good academic standing, complete 32 credits of honors courses, and submit a thesis.
Marian graduated with “Highest Distinction:” a classification assigned to those who were in the top 2% of the Honors’ graduates.
On May 18, 2008, Marian proudly marched with the Penn State Spring class of 2008 to receive her Baccalaureate Degree in Management and Organization. She has been accepted into the Teach for America Program, a program that will help other young people attain their goals. Marian, the daughter of Justin Dossou and Janet Dossou Thompson and the grand daughter of James and Mary Miles of West Philadelphia, is an active member of Ward African Methodist Episcopal Church. Her pastor is Rev. Terrence C. Hensford
Submitted by Sister Mary E. Miles, the grandmother of Ms Dossou
14. SUPPORT AND VOLUNTEERS NEEDED AT THE GENERAL CONFERENCE TO HELP AME SCOUTING:
Currently we are in the process of developing strategy to facilitate a booth for the AME General Conference. We need the support AME scout leaders and youth to be on site to support its staffing for the General Conference. If you can volunteer your time it will be greatly appreciated.
We also need items in which we can give away to those who visit the booth. We also need to know if the Girl Scouts are going to have a presence at the Conference.
BSA is making an effort to pay for the booth, whatever Girl Scout material we can show will enhance our presence. We are have been asked by BSA to have 3000 AME Scouts at the 2010 BSA Jamboree.
We commend Dr. Daryl Ingram and the CED for leading the effort to achieve these numbers. We have a lot of work to do with very little time to prepare.
Thru prayer and working together we will get this done.
Brother Anthony Franklin Sr.
15. FOR AFRICAN METHODISTS, THIS IS A TIME FOR CHANGE AND EXCITEMENT:
As we approach the General Conference, our minds are on changes in our denomination as well as Connectional accountability. I have asked, on several occasions, that Laypersons share with our inactive Lay brothers and sisters an explanation of the local church assessments. All of the figures are located in the back of The Discipline.
How many of us take the time to read the budget information spelled out with amounts attached. When our members understand what they are paying for and can see the benefits, such as owning property collectively, inclusive of schools and university; it creates pride and ownership.
We cannot keep increasing the budget to pay for activities and services that we have not stopped to evaluate for necessity nor the need to change.
Have we taken a look at how we operate these organizations and departments, as well as, giving people decent salaries for their dedicated services to the Connectional Church?
In order to make major changes, we will have to change how we are spending and do a serious overhaul of our financial planning. In Dr. Richard A. Lewis, we have a very good business-minded CFO, but it is not his responsibility to take these steps, but the General Board. And, as members, we must give the General Board the tools necessary to perform their services as the financial overseers of the Church.
My prayer is that we come together as a team, both Clergy and Lay and put the denomination ahead of personal needs and gains. I am prayerful that we will be honest with ourselves and each other as we plan for the future of the African Methodist Episcopal Church.
Sister Gloria T. Byrd
President
Sixth District Lay Organization
16. AFRICAN METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH GENERAL CONFERENCE PRAYER WALK, SUNDAY, JULY 6, 2008:
*The Rev. Dorisalene Y. Hughes
On July 4 – 11, 2008 the African Methodist Episcopal Church’s 2008 General Conference will be held in St. Louis, Missouri, hosted by the Fifth Episcopal District under the leadership of The Rt. Reverend John Richard Bryant, Presiding Prelate. During this 48th Quadrennial Session, a new component has been added -- an ecumenical, non-denominational Prayer Walk.
All denominations are invited to join us in a Prayer Walk in the city of St. Louis on Sunday, July 6, 2008 from 3:00 pm until 5:00 p.m. Our goal is to have 50,000 people participating. We request that you share this information with your Ministerial Staff, prayer warriors, PRAYER intercessors, Evangelists, and your entire congregation. We are looking for several willing and faithful servants to help us with this Prayer Walk in establishing prayer stations. We plan to visit area hospitals to offer prayer, and we plan to visit the homeless with prayers and sandwiches.
We believe we can accomplish so much together, so we ask you to please complete the enclosed form and return it to me.
*The Rev. Dorisalene Y. Hughes, serving as the Fifth District Co-Director of Prayer and Coordinator of Ad Hoc Prayer Committee for General Conference
17. NEWS FROM THE NINTH EPISCOPAL DISTRICT:
*Brother Kelvin J. Anthony
On Sunday May 25th, 2008, a celebration of dynamic leadership took place at Saint John A.M.E. Church, Birmingham where the Reverend James A. Rumph is the pastor. This celebration was honor of Bishop and Mrs. T. Larry Kirkland. The celebration started at 5:30 P.M. and it was the longest ceremony that I have ever attended in my life, but it was worth it. Mrs. Patricia R. Smith and Mr. Lamar Higgins were the mistress and master of ceremonies for the celebration. Mr. Lamar Higgins also serves as the 9th Episcopal District Director of the Sons of Allen
The Ninth Episcopal District Choir under the maestro leadership of the Reverend Dr. Farrell J. Duncombe sung Total Praise and four of Bishop Kirkland’s favorite songs. Then Sister D'Juana Duncombe, Wilson daughter of Reverend Farrell Duncombe sung a beautiful medley.
After the solo, the W.M.S. President and the Y.P.D. Director gave some great reflections for Mother Kirkland. Reflections and accolades for Bishop Kirkland were given by government and ecclesiastical leaders. Tributes were given by Councilman William Bell, District 5, City of Birmingham, Governor Bob Riley (Who sent his regards), and Barack Obama(Who sent his regards).
The event was blessed with the presence of Bishop Lawrence L. Reddick III., the Presiding Prelate of the 5th Episcopal District of the Christian Methodist Episcopal Church, Dr. Johnny Barbour, Jr., and the candidates for Bishop 2008, the Rev. James Arnell, the Rev. George Tyler, the Rev. John White, Sr., and the Rev. Stafford Wicker).
Many people gave great tributes, reflections, and special presentations to Bishop and Mrs. Kirkland. During the remarks, the Bishop and Mother Kirkland gave thanks to the 9th Episcopal District for the acts of kindness and great acts of service.
After the Benediction, Bishop Kirkland sang Jesus, Paid it All!
I want to say that I thank God for Bishop and Mother Kirkland and their family. I pray that God will continue to bless them and that God will continue to let His anointing flow on Bishop Kirkland's ministry.
*Brother Kelvin J. Anthony is sixteen years old and is the associate minister at Ward Chapel A.M.E. Church, Bessemer, Alabama
18. YOUTH CONSERVATION CORPS PROGRAM OFFERED AT FORT SUMTER NATIONAL MONUMENT AND CHARLES PINCKNEY NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE:
Fort Sumter National Monument is accepting applications for a summer employment program for young men and women, ages 15 through 18. The National Park Service will provide gainful employment for males and females of all social, economic, ethnic, and racial backgrounds through a Youth Conservation Corps Program (YCC) designed to accomplish needed conservation work on public lands.
YCC requirements are that enrollees must be permanent residents of the US and must furnish a Social Security Number. Applicants will be responsible for proper work clothing and transportation to the work sites at Fort Sumter National Monument on Sullivan’s Island and Charles Pinckney National Historic Site in Mount Pleasant.
Participants will engage in such projects as preservation work, lawn and ground improvements, painting, visitor contacts, and other worthwhile projects. The work is planned to provide the participants with a better understanding of their environment and the management of public owned resources.
YCC consists of a six-week program offering a minimum wage rate of $5.85-$6.55 per hour. There are three positions to be filled. The program will run for eight weeks, from June 22 through August 2, 2007.
For more information, contact your school’s guidance counselor or Fort Sumter National Monument at (843) 883-3123.
All applications must be received on or before June 13, 2008.
Submitted by Ms Pamela Greene
19. CLERGY FAMILY CONGRATULATORY NOTICES:
- The Rev. Carolyn Habersham, Pastor Emmanuel AME Church, Los Angeles, California and daughter of retired Presiding Elder Rev. Ezekiel Habersham, graduated from Claremont School of Theology on Saturday May 17, 2008 with a Master of Arts in Theological Studies.
Congratulatory messages can be sent to:
The Rev. Carolyn Habersham, Pastor
Emmanuel AME Church
5200 Compton Avenue
Los Angeles, CA 90011
Phone: 323-232-6300
Or email to: REVHABERSHAM@aol.com
- The Rev. Ella M. McDonald, from the 10th Episcopal District, received three awards and one certification along with her Master of Divinity Degree Diploma at the 2008 Perkins School of Theology Graduation Ceremony held on May 17, 2008.
Awards Received:
The Division I Biblical Study's Award: This was awarded to (3) three graduating seniors who exhibit excellence in Biblical studies of the Old and New Testament of the Bible.
The Robert Weatherford Prize for internship preaching: This prize was given to (3) three theology students for excellence in preaching during internship. The intern Faculty of the Perkins School of Theology and a representative from the preaching faculty chooses the recipients.
The Karis Stahl Fadely Scholarship Award: This award was presented to (2) two students who exhibit the qualities that were exemplified by Karis Fadely, commitment to Jesus Christ and the mission of the church, responsibility and good management of time.
Certification:
Graduate Certificate in Pastoral Care: This is the first graduation class to receive this certification. It was given to certify five theology students who passed the oral examination and completed 15 hours of Pastoral Care classes at Perkins School of Theology.
Congratulatory messages can be sent to: emmcd7@verizon.net
20. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
We regret to announce the passing of Sister Willie Jo Johnson on Thursday, May 22, 2008. She was the wife of the Rev. Howard Johnson, a long-time pastor in the Tenth Episcopal District in the North, Northwest and Northeast Texas Conferences.
Sister Willie Jo Johnson was also the aunt of Debra R. Taylor, Office Manager of the Eleventh Episcopal District AME Church.
The funeral information for Sister Willie Jo Johnson is as follows:
Wake:
Wednesday, May 28, 2008
6 P.M - 7 P.M.
Laurel Land Funeral Home & Memorial Park
6000 S R L Thornton Freeway
Dallas, TX 75232
Phone: (214) 371-1336
Fax: (972) 761-8966
Homegoing Celebration:
Thursday, May 29, 2008
11 A.M.
Smith Chapel AME Church
The Rev. Darrell Caldwell, Pastor
2406 Childs Street
Dallas, Texas 75203
Phone: (214) 948-9482
Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to:
Laurel Land Funeral Home
6000 South R. L. Thornton Freeway
Dallas, Texas 75232
Phone: (214) 371-1336
Condolences may be sent to:
The Rev. Howard Johnson
426 Glen Oaks
Dallas, Texas 75232
Phone: (214) 374-6610
Or to:
Ms. Debra R. Taylor
C/o Eleventh Episcopal District
101 E Union St. Ste. 301
Jacksonville, FL 32202
Email: 11thdistoffice@bellsouth.net
21. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
The 8th Episcopal District announces the homegoing of Mrs. Lillie Mae Self, the daughter of the late Rev. David J. Campbell, Sr. and the sister of the Rev. David James Campbell Jr., Presiding Elder of the Shreveport District-North Louisiana Conference and the Rev. Thelma Thomas pastor of Fluker Chapel A.M.E. Church, Greater New Orleans-Greensburg District-Louisiana Conference.
The funeral service will be held on Monday June 2nd at 12pm at:
Gloryland Baptist Church
2575 Michelli Dr.
Baton Rouge LA 70805
Condolences may be sent to:
Presiding Elder David J Campbell, Jr.
116 King Oaks Dr.
Monroe LA. 71202
Phone: 318-324-1263
22. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
We regret to inform you of the passing of Mrs. Margaret Ward, the wife of the Late Rev. James Ward who last pastored the Mitchell Chapel A. M. E. Church, Mansfield, Ohio.
Services for Mrs. Margaret Ward will be held on Saturday, May 25, 2008, 10 a.m.
Mitchell Chapel A. M. E. Church
189 Adams Street
Mansfield, Ohio 44907
419-524-9932
The Rev. Rodrecus Johnson, Pastor
The Rt. Rev. Robert Webster, Presiding Bishop
Cards and condolences may be sent in care of the church.
Please keep the family in your prayers.
Respectfully Submitted,
The Rev. Dr. Taylor T. Thompson
Third District Brotherhood
23. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
LaShawne Justice, daughter of the Rev. Cecelia Justice (5th Episcopal District) went home to be with the Lord on Thursday, May 22, 2008.
Service scheduled:
Wednesday, May 28, 2008
12:00 Noon
Bryant Temple AME Church
2525 West Vernon Avenue
Los Angeles, CA 90008
Phone: 323-293-6201
Rev. Clyde Oden, Jr., Pastor
The Rt. Rev. John R. Bryant, Presiding Bishop
Please remember the bereaved families in your prayers.
24. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICES AND CONGRATULATORY ANNOUNCEMENTS PROVIDED BY:
The Clergy Family Information Center
Bishop Carolyn Tyler Guidry, Chair
Commission on Social Action
Ora L. Easley, Administrator
AMEC Clergy Family Information Center
E-mail: Amespouses1@bellsouth.net
Phone: (615) 837-9736
Voice Mail: (615) 833-6936
Fax: (615) 833-3781
Cell: (615) 403-7751
25. CONDOLENCES TO THE BEREAVED FROM THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER:
The Chair of the Commission on Publications, the Right Reverend Gregory G. M. Ingram; the Publisher, the Reverend Dr. Johnny Barbour and the Editor of The Christian Recorder, the Reverend Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III offer our condolences and prayers to those who have lost loved ones. We pray that the peace of Christ will be with you during this time of your bereavement.
Archive of The Christian Recorder Online from 2004-2016; Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III, 20th Editor of The Christian Recorder
