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. BISHOP VINTON ANDERSON EULOGIZES A FRIEND AND THE AME CHURCH SAYS GOODBYE TO ONE OF ITS SERVANTS:
The joyful and Spirit-filled Celebration of the Life of the Rev. Dr. Cecil Whitney Howard was held at St. James AME Church in St. Louis, Missouri on Wednesday, June 5, 2008. St. James AME Church was filled to capacity. Seven active bishops and one retired bishop were present, as were, five active general officers, one retired, and two, former general officers. Candidates seeking to be elevated to the episcopacy and to be elected as general officers at the upcoming General Conference that will be held in St. Louis were also present. The active general officers who were present and absent, are all also candidates for reelection.
The following bishops were present: Bishop John Richard Bryant, Bishop Richard Allen Chappelle, Bishop T. Larry Kirkland, Bishop Vashti Murphy McKenzie, Bishop Gregory G.M. Ingram, Bishop Preston Warren Williams II, and Bishop E. Earl McCloud, Jr. Bishop Vinton Randolph Anderson was the eulogist. The Reverend Dr. W. Bartalette Finney, Sr., Presiding Elder of the St. Louis-Cape Girardeau District, served as the liturgist for Dr. Howard’s Homegoing celebration. The Rev. Noella Austin Buchanan is the pastor of St. James AME Church.
Bishop John Bryant in his remarks asked, “What is this crowd, what mean we here?” He noted that the gathering was not a General Conference, an Annual Conference, a General Board Meeting or some other connectional meeting; and went on to explain that, as he looked around the pulpit, the chancel area and the congregation, he saw bishops, general officers, connectional officers and candidates aspiring for the highest offices of the African Methodist Episcopal Church. He observed that folks had flown in from across the country and some had driven long distances to gather at St. James in honor and memory of Dr. Cecil Whitney Howard.
Dr. Clement Fugh opened his remarks with a statement he heard someone make about Dr. Howard, who said, “He’s a clean man.” Dr. Fugh said the person was not speaking about Dr. Howard’s hygiene, but was referring to his demeanor and his character.
Dr. Frank Madison Reid spoke about Dr. Howard’s ministry, how he was a friend, and about his tenacity in ministry.
The recurring theme throughout all of their remarks was the dedication, commitment, spiritual focus and tenacity of Dr. Howard.
Dr. Howard’s three grown children: Sesselie Howard Thompson, Paula Howard-Pitts, and Attorney Cecil W. Howard, Jr. gave warm reflections of their father; their remarks revealed their deep love and admiration for their father. Sitting with the large number of family members was Dr. Howard’s mother, Mrs. Lula Howard, who is over 100 years old.
Bishop Vinton Anderson, visibly moved as he delivered the eulogy, spoke of the deep relationship and long friendship he had with Dr. Howard; their relationship extended to over 50 years. Bishop Anderson shared that he, Dr. Howard, and the Rev. Dr. W. Bartalette Finney, Sr. had a long-standing weekly luncheon fellowship. A link in the chain has been broken. Bishop Anderson went on to say that, though his friend, Cecil was a gentle spirit, he was tenacious, and he knew how to follow through and complete tasks.
The funeral was an African Methodist celebration at its best; the Rev. Mr. Dwayne Buggs, the organist set the tone for the celebration with appropriate prelude music, the combined choirs of St. James AME Church and Ward Chapel AME sang; the Rev. Noella Austin Buchannan prayed; the scriptures were read by Dr. Richard Lewis, the Treasurer of the AME Church and the Reverend Terry McCray-Hill, pastor of Bethel AME Church, Reno, Nevada and solos were sung. Tributes were given and when the service, that lasted two hours, ended, the Reverend Claudine E. Murphy, pastor of St. Luke AME Church in St. Louis gave the benediction and as parishioners walked out of the sanctuary, we all had a better sense of who the late Reverend Cecil Whitney Howard really was and his impact upon the African Methodist Episcopal Church. He was a general officer, pastor, preacher, teacher, mentor, confidant, educator, student, ecumenist, father, son, uncle, nephew, grandfather, friend, and public servant. He was also a retiree who didn’t know how to retire; he failed retirement. He was as busy as or busier in retirement than he was before he retired.
Dr. Cecil Whitney Howard was born on May 22, 1926 in Cincinnati, Ohio to the union of James Howard and Lula Morgan. After graduating from Vashon high School in St. Louis, Missouri, he earned degrees from Wilberforce University and Payne Theological Seminary. He earned a Master of Arts degree in History from the Ohio State University; a Master of Religious Education Degree from Central Baptist Theological Seminary, and honorary doctorates from Monrovia College in Liberia, West Africa and Shorter College in Arkansas.
Dr. Howard was joined in marriage to Pauline Jones, who preceded him in death in 1988. Three children were born to this union, Sesselie Howard Thompson of Sacramento, California; Attorney Cecil Whitney Howard, Jr. of Los Angeles; and Paula Howard Pitts of Los Angeles.
Dr. Howard began his ministry at Bethel AME Church in Wellston, Missouri and also pastored at Bethel AME Church, Reno, Nevada; Carter Memorial AME Church, Fresno; Allen Chapel AME, Kansas City, Missouri; Shorter Chapel AME Church, Denver, St. James AME Church, St. Louis, and Bethel AME Church in San Francisco before being appointed General Secretary of the AME Church in 1991.
In 1992, he was unanimously elected as the General Secretary of the African Methodist Episcopal Church by the lay and ministerial delegates of the General Conference that was held in Orlando, Florida.
Dr. Howard served on various civic and religious boards. In Denver, he served as the Police and Fire Commissioner and in St. Louis, her served on the school board. He was a member of numerous ecumenical and civic organizations. He was a member of the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.
Dr. Howard was a loving father. He loved to read, travel and was an avid player of board games. His family, friends and colleagues remembered his as a fun-loving, compassionate, humorous and friend to many.
Dr. Howard leaves to cherish his memory, his mother, Mrs. Lula Howard, his three children, Sesselie Howard Thompson, Attorney Cecil W. Howard, Jr., Paula Howard-Pitts, sons-in-law, Edward Thompson, and Chester Pitts, two granddaughters, Whitney Marie and Chelsie Sunshine, and three grandsons, twins Chase Jordan and Christopher Morgan, and Bryce Alexander. He is also survived by his uncle, Dr. Gerald Morgan; cousin, Dr. Jay Kevin Morgan and a host of nieces, nephews, other family members, numerous friends and loved ones.
Editor’s Comment: Parts of this article were taken from the Life Reflections that was a part of the Celebration of Life funeral bulletin.
2. READER RESPONSE TO EDITORIAL AND OTHER ISSUES:
- To the Editor:
This is a day the Lord has made and what a wonderful day to wake up to. We have so much for which to give God thanks. I sat last night (6/3/08) saying to myself as I watched the celebration of the nomination of Barack Obama as the nominee (presumed, not withstanding) of the National Democratic Party of the United States of America, I said to myself. “This is the Lord's doing; it is marvelous in our eyes.”
The discipline of the Black (African-American) community has been a remarkable demonstration of political maturity. Certainly, there have been many things said and done to anger and disappoint us, but we kept our eyes on the prize and held on. This same capacity to focus on the “real goal” will be even more important as we leave the Primary Campaign and move to the General Election.
Let us continue to lift up Obama and his family as the journey hardens and the attacks become more furious. Pray for his safety and security.
No matter who your choice may be, let us increase our commitment to elect the highest quality of leadership to highest office of our land and the most powerful position in the world.
I conclude my comments with the closing words of the 118th Psalms, “O give thanks unto the Lord, for he is good and his mercy endures forever.”
Bishop C. Garnett Henning, Presiding Prelate
8th Episcopal District
- To the Editor:
RE: The passing of Brother Schuman
I have received both the news releases and The Christian Recorder Online promptly. I have not responded to them, nor have I recently (the whole of this year) wrote anything for circulation, but the sad and shocking announcement of the passing away of Brother Schuman has prompted me to acknowledge receipt and express myself about the loss.
To God be the glory for the labours of Bro. Schuman in the mission of the Church. He was dedicated and committed to the Church and her mission, always displaying his love for the church even in good and difficult times. He has inspired me and many others in so many ways to love Christ, His Church and Community. Every bit of conversation held with him is memorable and I am pray the Lord for his soul to peacefully rest.
I send my condolences to his family, which allowed him to express such immeasurable love for the Christ and the Church. I pray the Lord for their strength and consolation in his passing on.
To all the organised laity in the Church, especially in Africa, the best tribute to give to this man of God is picking up the banner he held and proceed on until the world know that Christ is Lord and Saviour and the mission of the Church is realized. He loved it, so let us love it too.
Kind regards
Because He Lives, I am
The Rev. Teboho G. Klaas
Director: National Health Programme
South African Council of Churches
9th Floor, Khotso House
62 Marshall Street
2001 JOHANNESBURG
Tel.: +27 (0)11 241 7811/2
Fax: +27 (0)11 492 1448/9
Mobile: +27 (0)76 692 9583
Email: tgk@sacc.org.za
3. CANDIDATES ROSTER FOR THE FORTY-EIGHTH QUADRENNIAL SESSION OF THE GENERAL CONFERENCE OF THE AFRICAN METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH THAT WILL BE HELD AT THE AMERICA’S CENTER, ST. LOUIS, MISSOURI, JULY 4-11, 2008:
- CANDIDATES ROSTER -
GENERAL SECRETARY
(Vote for one)
1. Clement W. Fugh
CHAIR OF EPISCOPAL COMMITTEE
(Vote for one)
2. Harold R. Mayberry
SECRETARY-TREASURER, SUNDAY SCHOOL UNION
(Vote for one)
3. Johnny Barbour, Jr.
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, GLOBAL WITNESS & MINISTRY
(Vote for one)
4. George F. Flowers
DIRECTOR, CHURCH GROWTH AND DEVELOPMENT
(Vote for one)
5. Charles C. McLamore
6. Vernal E. Simms Sr.
7. James C. Wade
SECRETARY-TREASURER, CHRISTIAN EDUCATION
(Vote for one)
8. Edrena Houston Brown
9. Daryl B. Ingram
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, ANNUITY INVESTMENTS AND INSURANCE
(Vote for one)
10. Jerome V. Harris
HISTORIOGRAPHER/DIRECTOR OF RESEARCH AND SCHOLARSHIP/EDITOR, A.M.E. CHURCH REVIEW
(Vote for one)
11. Adonis Carolus Booyse
12. Dennis C. Dickerson
13. Mark Kelly Tyler
TREASURER/CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER
(Vote for one)
14. Richard Allen Lewis
EDITOR, THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER
(Vote for one)
15. Calvin H. Sydnor III
JUDICIAL COUNCIL
(Vote for four Lay; two Clergy)
LAY CLERGY
24. Benjamin F. Edwards 28. Franklin E. Breckenridge
25. Priscilla J. Green. 29. Francine A. Brookins
26. Patricia M. Mayberry 30. Glenda F. Hodges
27. Rosemarie Rhodes-Miller 31. Granville W. Reed III
JUDICIAL COUNCIL ALTERNATES
(Vote for one Lay; one Clergy)
LAY CLERGY
32. James T. Golden
BISHOP
(Vote for )
33. Wayne B. Anthony
34. James E. Arnell
35. Ronnie E. Brailsford Sr.
36. Ronald Eugene Braxton
37. Diane L. Burl.
38. Kelvin T. Calloway
39. Philip R. Cousin Jr.
40. Louis A. C. Davis
41. Ann Lightner Fuller
42. Debora F. Grant
43. Earl G. Harris
44. Larry Stanwyck Hinton.
45. Reginald T. Jackson
46. Jeffrey R. Leath
47. Andrew B. Lewin
48. Julius H. McAllister Sr.
49. Terence L. Mayes Sr.
50. Themba Abram Mbambo
51. Goodfellow Mugala
52. Willie Ray Norful Sr.
53. Allen Wayne Parrot
54. Wesley I. Reid.
55. Harry L. Seawright
56. Daniel L. Simmons Sr.
57. Leodis Strong
58. Nelson Dan Taylor
59. George W. Tyler
60. Albert D. Tyson III
61. Isaiah J. Waddy
62. John F. White Sr.
63. Stafford Wicker
4. 24TH ANNUAL WOMEN'S SPIRITUAL RETREAT: EBENEZER A.M.E. CHURCH OFFERS A WEEKEND OF POWERFUL FEMALE MINISTERS JULY 31 - AUGUST 2:
"Kingdom Women with Holy Ghost Power: Reaping the Harvest God Promised Us" is the theme of a three day event presented by Ebenezer A.M. E. Church in Fort Washington, MD as part of their 24th Annual Women's Spiritual Retreat to be held July 31 - August 2, 2008.
Facilitators of the retreat include the Rev. Dr. Claudette Copeland, the Rev. Dr. Elaine McCollins Flake, Bishop Millicent Hunter, Rev. Dr. Cynthia Hale, the Rev. Dr. Jessica Ingram, Bishop Vashti McKenzie, Evangelist Susie Owens, the Rev. Dr. Carolyn Showell, the Rev. Dr. Gina Stewart, and the Rev. Dr. Renita Weems. Pastor Jo Ann Browning is Convener.
Other speakers include Psalmist Katy Taylor Brown, the Rev. Carolyn Allen, Elder Louise Cage, Rev. Dr. Rita Colbert, the Rev. Dr. Cheryl Townsend Gilkes, the Rev. Yvonne McDougall Hall, the Rev. Stephanie Jennings-Stratford, the Rev. Dr. Ann Lightner-Fuller, the Rev. Barbara A. Lucas, the Rev. Sabrina Mangrum, the Rev. Dr. Lisa D. Rhodes, Mrs. Connie S. Richardson, the Rev. Marilynn Robinson, the Rev. Dr. Debyii Thomas, the Rev. Dr. Ruth Travis, the Rev. Dr. Peggy Wall, and the Rev. Dr. Gloria White-Hammond.
The 24th Annual Women's Spiritual Retreat will be held at the Marriott Wardman Park Hotel, 2660 Woodley Road, NW, Washington, DC (20008). For more information log onto: www.ebenezerame.org/w2w
5. BITS AND PIECES – AME CHURCH:
The Rev. Jeremiah Wright, the former pastor of Democratic presidential candidate Barack Obama, canceled his appearance at the International Detroit Black Expo, was replaced by the Rev. Dr. Frank Madison Reid III, the pastor of Bethel AME Church in Baltimore, Maryland.
The theme of that event is "There is Power in the Black Dollar." The International Detroit Black Expo is Wednesday through Sunday (June 4-8, 2008). It includes the Buy Black Weekend II.
6. THE IRS AND NONPROFIT ORGANIZATIONS:
Paulette Coleman, Ph.D.
Financial integrity and transparency became the watchwords of corporate America following the major financial and accounting scandals at World Com, Enron, Tyco International, Adelphia, and Peregrine among others. In response to these debacles, that cost investors billions and shook public confidence in the nation’s securities markets, Congress enacted the Public Company Accounting Reform and investor Protections Act of 2002 popularly known as the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. This legislation established new or enhanced standards for all U. S. public company boards, management, and public accounting firms. While Sarbanes-Oxley does not apply to privately held companies or nonprofit organizations, there are two provisions dealing with document retention and retaliation against whistle blowers that apply to nonprofit organizations. In the spirit of increased accountable of boards for the acts of their corporations, State legislatures around the country are passing legislation extending good governance requirements to charitable and nonprofit corporations.
Religious organizations have a special status in tax law and as such, they are not required to report financial information to the federal government, as are other nonprofit organizations. In the past few years, IRS has increased its scrutiny of political activity at places of worship by training more staffers and fast-tracking investigations of such activity. Previously, IRS investigations of churches and other nonprofits were triggered by specific complaints, but that is no longer the case. The IRS can now initiate such investigations, on its own and without a specific complaint, provided there are indications of problems.
Exactly what religious institutions can do in politics without jeopardizing their tax exemption is sometimes confusing. Religious institutions are indeed allowed to discuss social and political issues. They can also support ballot measures, but they cannot support candidates; contribute to political organizations; or raise money for campaigns. The IRS requires evenhanded treatment of political candidates.
There is concern that this current IRS approach is unwarranted and a throwback to the days when then-Senate minority leader Lyndon Johnson engineered passage of the law in 1954 that prohibits political activities by religious institutions, in part because of his anger with nonprofit organizations that opposed his re-election. Similarly, during the Nixon administration, the IRS was used to silence organizations that President Nixon did not like. Whatever the rationale, there is more monitoring and greater scrutiny by the IRS of churches and other religious institutions. The worst case scenario is that these investigations are witch hunts designed to revoke the tax exempt status of religious institutions and to silence their voice and activism in matters of social justice and equality.
Most recently, Sen. Chuck Grassley, the ranking Republican member of the Senate’s finance committee is increasing the pressure on several large ministries to respond to his financial inquiry questioning whether they have violated their tax-exempt status by using church money to bankroll lavish lifestyles and private businesses. Grassley has said his Bible teaches him that Jesus rode into the city on a donkey and he does not understand why today’s ministers must ride around in Bentleys, Rolls-Royces, and other luxury cars. Grassley argues that his inquiry is a nonprofit tax policy review that has nothing to do with church doctrine or theology. For him, the investigation is a legitimate part of the oversight responsibility of the senate finance committee. Grassley has said, “I don’t intend to give up and go away. I work on oversight projects until I get answers and results.”
The subjects of Grassley’s inquiry include Without Walls, Paula White Ministries, Creflo Dollar of World Changers Church International, Benny Hinn of World Healing Center Church, Kenneth Copeland of Kenneth Copeland Ministries, Eddie Long of New Birth Missionary Baptist Church, and Joyce Meyer of Joyce Meyer Ministries. Only Meyer has cooperated with the IRS up to this point. In December 2007 all of the ministries issued statements stating that they comply with the IRS tax code.
Some observers have indicated that the investigation has driven a wedge in the evangelical community between Baptist and Pentecostal voters. Critics of the investigation point out that Grassley is Baptist and the ministries being reviewed are all characterized as Pentecostal or charismatic. The six ministries are proponents of the “prosperity gospel,” which preaches that financial riches are proof of God’s favor.
Several of the ministries have been openly defiant and have railed against the investigation from their pulpits. Randy White, pastor of Without Walls told his congregation that the inquiry was an assault of their faith. Kenneth Copeland said that he will never release the information even if he Grassley subpoenas him. Copeland considers Grassley’s efforts a deliberate attempt to sully the reputations and diminish the credibility of the ministries targeted.
J. Lee Grady, editor of Charisma magazine, a leading Christian publication supports more financial accountability to insure that ministries are staying within the bounds of the law when it comes to tax law. “Perhaps the Lord is offended that our beloved gospel of prosperity has created a cult of selfishness. If so, our best response is to open our account ledgers and welcome correction.” Kenneth Behr, president of the Evangelical Council for Financial Accountability, an accrediting agency, also supports the inquiry.
Sarah Posner, author of the book, God’s Profits: Faith, Fraud and the GOP Crusade for Values, believes that not much will come of the investigation, especially in an election year. A similar inquiry twenty years ago did not gain much traction and resulted in no new IRS authority or money to investigate. The outcome of the current investigation is unpredictable at this time, but Grassley is expected to remain as vigilant in his search for answers as five of the ministries are steadfast in their decisions not to cooperate.
7. HISTORIC METROPOLITAN AME CHURCH EXPANDS EFFORTS TO REDUCE RECIDIVISM:
By Aisha Karimah
Historic Metropolitan African Methodist Episcopal Church’s Daniel Alexander Payne Reclamation Program (DAPRP) has partnered with The Court Services and Offender Supervision Agency to expand the faith community’s efforts in meeting the needs of returning ex-offenders in several wards of the nation’s capital. Further, it is projected in 2008, working with The Court Services and Offender Supervision Agency (CSOSA); DAPRP will expand the coordination of services for the entire city of Washington, D.C.
The Daniel Alexander Payne Reclamation program (DAPRP), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit of Metropolitan, was designed “to provide a foundation for incubation of hope and the installation of job skills thus lowering the possibility for recidivism,” said Trotter Collier, Program Coordinator. Inspired by author Evans Hopkins and the Mighty Men of Metropolitan AME Church, DAPRP was established to prepare men returning from prison for a new beginning.
It is estimated 2800 to 3000 offenders return to the District of Columbia each year, averaging 240 per month. And roughly two-thirds return to prison within three years. As the lead coordinator of Faith Based Institutions and Service Providers, The Daniel Alexander Payne Reclamation Program will ensure that returning offenders are provided requisite mentors and services for successful integration back into society as productive members; thereby, reducing the damaging rates of recidivism. “ We are able to network with other faith based institutions to assist men and women make a positive transition back into the community”, according to Rev. R. Hamilton Crump, cluster coordinator for the reclamation program.
The vision for the Daniel Alexander Payne Reclamation Program grew out of Men’s Day events in 2005 that focused on The Prison Industrial Complex and Its Impact on the African American Community. A series of workshops were held with Evans Hopkins, Author- Life After Life , Marc Mauer, Analyst- The Sentencing Project, Paul Quander, Director- Court Services and Offender Supervision Agency (CSOSA), the Rev. Ronald Braxton, senior pastor of Metropolitan A.M.E. and Metropolitan’s membership to understand the breadth and depth of this very serious problem. The Mighty Men of Metropolitan were challenged, determined and moved to address the needs and empower offenders returning to the Washington, DC Metropolitan community. For at least 9 months, a core group of Mighty Men collaborated to develop an 8-week life skills program to empower CSOSA referred young men returning to the Washington community.
The 8-week life skills session curriculum, reviewed in conjunction with CSOSA, focused on health and spiritual wellness, family, communication, job readiness, computer and financial literacy, mentoring and vocational pre-apprenticeship job placement while continuously emphasizing the critical role of a committed support network that endures and flourishes beyond the 8-week period. The committed support network serves as the foundation for helping ensure the DAPRP graduate will have ongoing support in making productive life decisions and assessing requisite services.
In a recent statement, Rev. Ronald Braxton said, “One of the commission’s of JESUS CHRIST is to visit those in prison. This was a mandate to go. I thank the Reclamation program, Metropolitan A.M.E. church, Daniel Alexander Payne 501-C-3 for changing the paradigm; not just to go, but open the door and let them come in. This is a new paradigm. It is a challenge to the Black Church in America to understand that singing, praying, reading scripture and shouting cannot end on Sunday morning. It has to be worked on, lived and responded to everyday of its existence, especially in the lives of young brothers and sisters who are in crisis”.
The Daniel Alexander Payne Reclamation Program is the outgrowth of Mighty Men of Faith who remain dependent upon the Lord for guidance and direction. These Mighty Men stand and act on Jeremiah 29:11, “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” It is this faith that is imparted to all who serve to advocate the pursuit of improved life choices.
Dorothy Gilliam, Greg Johnson, Donnell Karimah and Dr. Yvonne Bolling contributed to this article
8. GUIDELINES FOR CLERGY AND RELIGIOUS ORGANIZATIONS ON POLITICAL ACTIVITY:
As organizations exempt from tax under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code, churches, synagogues, mosques and other religious organizations are absolutely prohibited from participating or intervening in any political campaign for or against any candidate or political party – at either the federal, state or local level. The IRS’s “Political Activity Compliance Initiative” aimed at 501(c)(3) organizations including religious institutions makes it especially important to be mindful of this prohibition. In addition, federal campaign finance laws impose restrictions on coordination between nonprofit organizations and political parties that may result in an unlawful in-kind contribution from the organization to the party, or its candidates. But these restrictions don’t mean that clergy cannot interact at all with Democratic Party committees or candidates, or that religious organizations can’t promote political involvement in a nonpartisan way. Here are some basic guidelines that may be helpful in dealing with these issues. Of course, clergy and religious leaders should consult their own counsel for advice about any particular proposed activity or situation. It is also helpful to review IRS Publication 1828, Tax Guide for Churches and Religious Organizations (available at www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/p1828.pdf).
Role of Clergy
A religious leader cannot endorse a candidate or a political party:
• Inside the church or at official church functions;
• In an official organization publication such as a church newsletter.
A religious leader can endorse a candidate or political party in her personal capacity, meaning that the leader can, for example:
• Appear at a press conference or other event for a candidate or party, paid for by the candidate or party, off church property, and at which the leader’s church affiliation is indicated to be “for identification purposes only;”
• Lend her name to an endorsement in a paid ad or lit piece (paid for by the campaign or party), again with the church affiliation indicated “for identification purposes only”
• Appear at an organizing meeting, off church property, organized by a party committee or candidate, to meet with other community activists, religious leaders, etc. to discuss positions on issues and candidates.
Use Of Church, Synagogue and Mosque Facilities – Generally
A religious institution can make its community room or other common space available for meetings organized by a political party IF the space is available on the exact same basis to all parties and candidates, and to non-political organizations, i.e., to the general public. A political party or candidate must be charged the same as any other user of the space or facility.
A political party committee or federal candidate can accept the use of a free meeting room from a religious organization, if the space is routinely made available for free to other civic and community groups or members of the public on that basis and if all candidates and political parties are afforded the same treatment.
Candidate Appearances in Church or at Church Functions
Individuals holding public office, and candidates, can appear in a non-candidate capacity in church and at church functions. The individual might be invited to speak because she is:
• An incumbent elected official, invited to address a subject of importance to the community, or attend the dedication of a new facility or inauguration of a new church program;
• An expert or community leader in a particular area, invited to address the congregation or a church event about that subject;
• A celebrity or distinguished citizen invited to speak about their experiences or career.
In these situations it’s not necessary to invite any other candidates to participate. But when an individual is invited to speak in a non-candidate capacity, there should be no reference to their candidacy, by the speaker or anybody else at the event; no campaign activity, banners, campaign lit, etc.; and no fundraising.
Similarly, a public official can be acknowledged and introduced at church, during services, by his or her official title, without reference to his or her candidacy.
In addition, under FEC and IRS rules, a church can invite candidates to speak, as candidates, in church, or at church events, even on different days (i.e., successive Sundays), as long as:
• All candidates seeking the office must be invited;
• All candidates must be given generally equal opportunity to address congregants, i.e., the church can’t invite one candidate to address services and another to address a smaller club or group meeting;
• The topics addressed should cover a broad range of issues;
• No church representative or religious leader should indicate any bias for or against any candidate during the event, or make any endorsement or in any way ask for money or support for a particular candidate;
• No fundraising takes place during the event.
A religious organization can sponsor a debate among candidates for the general election, or among candidates of one party seeking the nomination for an office, as long as the debates include at least two candidates; the organization uses pre-established objective criteria to determine which candidates to invite; the questions cover a broad range of topics and are not structured to favor one candidate or another; and all candidates participating are given an equal opportunity to present their views.
Voter Registration and GOTV
Religious organizations can conduct non-partisan voter registration and GOTV drives, on church property. A registration drive can be targeted at members of the congregation or at particular ethnic or income groups—but it cannot be targeted at supporters of a particular party or candidate. Voter registration and GOTV assistance can be provided by a religious organization as long as:
• No political party or candidate is named in any voter contact communication—whether phone, mail lit, in person rally, etc.
• Assistance in registering; and assistance in voting (poll location information; rides to the polls, etc.) must be made available to all persons without regard to political party or candidate preference.
A church can decide it will register or do GOTV just among the homeless, or just in low income neighborhoods that have historically low participation rates. But it cannot register or assist only Democrats, or only voters expressing a preference for a particular candidate.
A registration drive cannot be coordinated with a candidate or political party committee.
Lists
A church (or church organization) that regularly sells or rents its membership list to other organizations can sell or rent that list to a political party or candidate if the church rents or sells to the party or candidate on the same terms. The list has to be genuinely made available to all candidates and party committees.
Voter Guides
The rules for voter guides that can be distributed by a religious institution or on its property are much stricter than the rules for voter guides prepared by advocacy organizations. These rules apply to any voter guide distributed on church property regardless of what group has prepared it. Specifically the voter guide must:
• Include all candidates for the office;
• Present the questions exactly as they were presented to the candidates;
• Present the candidate’s answers in their own words, unedited; a reasonable word or space limit may be imposed if it’s the same for all candidates and provides a reasonable opportunity for response;
• Not show any bias or favoritism of any kind and specifically should not include the religious organization’s own position or views on any issue the candidates were asked about.
Editor’s Note: This is useful information for this presidential election year that bishops and presiding elders might want to share with pastors. The Rev. Joseph Darby was kind enough to share this information with me.
9. GENESIS TO REVELATION NOW ON AMAZON KINDLE:
The Contemporary English Version of the Bible from American Bible Society Available on Wireless Portable Reading Device
NEW YORK, June 6 /Christian Newswire/ -- God's Word has found a new home--on Amazon Kindle. As of today the Contemporary English Version of the Bible (CEV), a modern-day translation of the American Bible Society can be instantly accessed through the Amazon device without the use of a computer. A high resolution screen provides an excellent display of the text and the CEV Bible is searchable. The simplicity of the Kindle device is a plus for those looking to get specific books of the Bible or the entire Bible itself. This makes the Bible into a highly portable library. Thomas Durakis, Director of Licensing and Product Services at the American Bible Society, who has worked with Amazon on this project, praises the readability of Amazon Kindle and its appeal to the general public. Mr. Durakis says, "We are excited about using this digital platform to share scriptural texts with all of those interested in the Bible, especially new readers and younger readers." Since 1816 the mission of the American Bible Society has been to share God's Word with the world. Mr. Durakis emphasizes, "We are charged to provide the Bible to all people in a language and format that can be understood so that the lives of those who engage with the Bible can be changed. Amazon Kindle is a new format and we embrace innovation as a way of extending the power of Scripture to everyone." The entire American Bible Society's Contemporary English Version will be available on Amazon Kindle for $3.99 (digital list price). Those interested in certain books and biblical passages can download portions of the Bible such as Proverbs and Psalms, the Gospels or the Pentateuch. The CEV Bible was first published by the American Bible Society in 1995 and is marked by its uncompromising simplicity. Not a paraphrase, the CEV Bible is an accurate and faithful translation of the original manuscripts in language that is contemporary and easily read by readers of all levels. Other Bible texts of the American Bible Society, such as the Good News Translation and the Spanish language Reina Valera Revisada 1960, soon will join the CEV on Amazon Kindle. The American Bible Society has a history of innovation:
The first translation by the Bible Society into a language other than English, was in 1818 in the Delaware Indian language;
In 1836 the printing of Scripture in raised letters was advanced before the development of Braille;
The Bible Society was the first to put Bibles into hotels and riverboats back in the 1840s;
Also in the 1840s, the first gift annuity was created;
Pocket Bibles for soldiers were created at the time of the Civil War;
The Bible Society began to use film in 1925 to spread God's Word;
Bible translation was revolutionized in 1966 by the Good News Translation done in contemporary English.
Other current innovations include putting the Bible on cell phones and the prospect of special ring tones on cell phones. Founded in 1816 and headquartered in New York City, the mission of the American Bible Society is to make the Bible available to every person in a language and format each can understand and afford, so that all people may experience its life-changing message. The American Bible Society Web site is http://www.americanbible.org/.
10. EPISCOPACY AND CLERGY FAMILY CONGRATULATORY NOTICES:
- With great pride, Bishop Samuel and Dr. Ava Green announce the graduation of their son, Adam Scott Green from West Orange High School.
Adam was the Senior Class President, Concert Choir Vice President, National Honor Society House Leader, Principal's Leadership Award Recipient and future LEAD Scholar at the University of Central Florida.
The graduation was held on Monday, June 2, 2008. Adam gave the Senior Class President's farewell address at the graduation.
- Bishop Samuel Green proudly announces that Supervisor Ava S. B. Green will participate in the graduation exercise of Nova Southeastern University, Fischler School of Education and Human Services. She was awarded the Doctor of Education Degree on January 31, 2008 and will receive her doctoral hood on June 7, 2008.
- The Rev. Dr. W.E. Marshall, pastor of Washington Chapel A.M.E. Church, Tuskegee AL., son of the late Presiding Elder James Marshall and son-in-law of Presiding Elder Willis N. Huggins, Sr. successfully defended his dissertation entitled, "Developing a Project of Healing and Reconciliation in the 21st Century" and received his Doctor of Ministry degree from United Theological Seminary, Dayton Ohio on May 24, 2008.
Congratulatory messages can be sent to: wekrm777@aol.com
- Ms. Wilma D. Broughton received her Doctorate of Education Degree on April 30, 2008 from the Fischler School of Education at Nova Southeastern University, Fort Lauderdale, Florida.
- The Rev. Dennis W. Broughton, Jr. received his Master of Divinity Degree from Payne Theological Seminary, Wilberforce, Ohio on May 9, 2008.
They are the daughter and son of Mrs. Wilhelmenia B. Broughton (WMS Treasurer, 7th Episcopal District) and the late Rev. Dennis W. Broughton, Sr.
Congratulatory messages can be sent to: wbroughton1@aol.com or wbrough42@bellsouth.net
- Sherard Blake Moultrie-Brown graduated on May 10, 2008 from Winthrop University in Rock Hill, SC with a BA degree in Art - Graphic Design and a minor in Art History.
Sherard is the son of the Rev. John Paul and Mrs. Viola E. Brown. The Rev. John Paul Brown is the pastor of Mt. Zion AME Church, Charleston, SC.
Congratulatory messages can be sent to: violaebrown@netscape.net
- The Reverend Doctor Gilbert L. Morgan, Sr., Pastor of Community AME Church in Ecorse, Michigan (4th Episcopal District, Michigan Conference-North District) is receiving an Honorary Doctorate of Divinity Degree from the Tennessee School of Religion.
The "Hooding" Ceremony will be held at the Community African Methodist Episcopal Church located at 4010 17th Street - Ecorse, Michigan on Sunday, June 22, 2008 at 4:00 pm.
Congratulatory messages can be sent to: pastorgilbert@comcast.net
- Denise Holloman was promoted to the position of Vice President, Continuous Improvement and Manufacturing Support for General Mills Supply Chain on June 1st, 2008. Denise Holloman is the daughter-in-law of Retired Presiding Elder and Mrs. Cornelius E. Jenkins of the 11th Episcopal District. The announcement was made by Dave Johnson, Vice President, North American Manufacturing.
11. GENERAL OFFICER FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
We are saddened to announce that Mr. Eugene F. Harris, Sr. expired today, June 3, 2008 in New York, where he was residing. Brother Eugene Harris is the brother, the Rev. Dr. Jerome Harris, Executive Director of the Department of Annuity Investments and Insurance.
The funeral service will be held on Monday, June 9, 2008 at 12 Noon at St. Paul AME Church, 706 E. Patton Avenue, Montgomery, Alabama. The pastor of St. Paul AME Church is the Rev. Farrell J. Duncombe.
Church Telephone: 334-286-8577
Condolences may be sent to:
Dr. Jerome Harris
280 Hernando Street
Suite 300
P.O. Box 1857
Memphis, TN 38101
Telephone: (901)527-2006
FAX: (901) 527-2007
Email: amec_des@bellsouth.com
12. GENERAL OFFICER FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
The Reverend Dr. Cecil W. Howard, retired General Secretary of the African Methodist Episcopal Church, passed away on Thursday, May 29, 2008.
The funeral has been held.
Expressions of sympathy may be sent to:
The family of Dr. Cecil W. Howard
4272 Bielefeld Drive
St. Louis, MO 63033
Phone: (314) 830-0526
Or send to:
St. James A.M.E. Church
4301 St. Ferdinand Avenue
St. Louis, MO 63113
13. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
Received from: NIGEL@CNDV.CO.ZA
Brother Gert Beukes, the father of the Rev. Agnes Beukes from Lutzville, South Africa; 15th Episcopal District, S.W.A. (Namibia) Annual Conference passed away on Wednesday, 28 May 2008.
Rev. Agnes can be contacted at:
027- 217 1377 or 079 606 1153.
Expressing of sympathy for the Rev. Agnes Beukes can be e-mailed to:
Chris.Samaai@dha.gov.za or NIGEL@CNDV.CO.ZA
The Rt. Rev. Samuel Lawrence Green, Sr. is the Presiding Bishop of the 15th Episcopal District.
Please remember Rev. Agnes Beukes and family in your prayers.
14. 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
15. 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
