Bishop Richard Franklin Norris - Chair, Commission on Publications
The Reverend Dr. Johnny Barbour, Jr., Publisher
The Reverend Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III, Editor, The Christian Recorder
1. EDITORIAL – TEACHABLE MOMENTS – THE EDITOR ANSWERS QUESTIONS:
Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III
The 20th Editor of The Christian Recorder
Today’s Editorial consists of some of the teachable moments and answering questions.
Why do you recommend that we send distribution list emails using the “Bcc” address-line instead of in the “To” address-line?
When email addresses are displayed in the “To” address-line, spammers and bad-folks have access to everybody’s email address and that’s the easiest way for spammers to spread viruses that invade our computers. To display the “Bcc” address option in Microsoft programs, in a new message, simply click the arrow next to the Options button box in the tools bar, and then click Bcc. Or go to your Help Menu to guide you thorough the process; simply type in “Bcc” in the Help Search box. I recommend that you send out your emails, especially emails with a distribution list in the “Bcc” address-line instead of in the “To” address-line.
Email addresses in the “To” Box allows spammers to see all of the email addresses and they can potentially, do a lot of harm and infect the email accounts and spread computer viruses to all of the persons whose email addresses appear in the “To” addressee box. This is how people from spammers from the U.S. and overseas get our email addresses and our contacts’ email addresses. Also, spammers and bad people can also send pornographic emails that look like they were sent from your account to friends and relatives.
Why do you recommend that we not open electronic greeting cards (eCards) or respond to any unsolicited emails that want you to provide your email address?
Electronic greeting cards can take a lot of space and slow your computer. If you want to wish someone a happy birthday or to say thank you, just send them a regular email message. When eCard firms get your email address that means they can do whatever they want with your information.
You should never respond to emails that ask for your email address like “Tag” messages. Most of those types of messages can be destructive, simply because you don’t know the moral standards of all of the persons who have been tagged. Delete those messages, and in Microsoft Outlook, you can right-click on the message and select “Junk email” and block that email address, which assures you that emails from that entity, will never reach your Inbox.
Why do The Christian Recorder, newspapers and other periodicals use the definite article, “The/the” with the use of the term “reverend”?
Especially in formal documents and in church bulletins, when the term, “Reverend” or “Right Reverend” is used before a name, “Reverend / Rev.” should be preceded by “the” because “Reverend / Rev.” is not a noun; it is an adjective and is preceded by, “the.” A definite or indefinite article usually precedes a noun.
In a sentence, you would not say, “Blue car is fast” because “blue” as used in the sentence is an adjective and the correct way to form the sentence would be, “The blue car was fast” or “When we went to the racetrack, the blue car was fast.” Or “a” blue car was fast.
In the beginning of a sentence, the “T” in “the” is capitalized and in the middle of a sentence, the “t” in “the” is in the lower case, thus:
“The Rev. John Smith preached an outstanding sermon.”
“An outstanding sermon was delivered by the Rev. John Smith.”
In a list, since “reverend” is an adjective, the use of “the reverends followed by a list of names is grammatically incorrect because adjectives are not pluralized. Instead a list of ministers should be listed thusly: The Rev. John Smith, the Rev. James Williams, and the Rev. Willie Johnson and so on; not, “… the Revs. John Smith, James Williams, and Willie Johnson...”
- Why do some pastors make a big deal about serving the elements of communion in a recipient’s right hand?
The short version: The Middle East in biblical times, and even today, consider the left hand as unclean; the left hand was supposed to be the hand that one cleaned one’s self after using the toilet. People ate with their right hand; touch others only with the right hand; never the left hand. The tradition has been carried over in the church and that’s the reason we have been taught to take Communion with our right hand. Blessings are also given with the right hand. In some churches a left-handed blessing is an anathema. The Bible speaks about the right hand of God; never the left hand of God.
I don’t know if you have noticed it, but most toilet paper dispensers, even in America, are most often placed on the left; very rarely on the right side. If you have not done so, check it out.
Who was the first African-born Bishop?
The first African-born bishop was, Bishop Francis Herman Gow (1956). The remaining order of election and consecration of African-born bishops: Bishop Harold Ben Senatle (1984), Bishop Wilfred Jacobus Messiah (2004), Bishop Paul Jones Mulenga Kawimbe (2004), and Bishop David Rwhynica Daniels (2004).
The first foreign born bishop was Bishop William Paul Quinn. He was born in the East Indies (Honduras) sometime near the turn of the 19th Century, although some accounts list his birthplace as Calcutta, India. According to an affidavit issued in 1851, his mother was Egyptian and his father a Spaniard engaged in the mahogany business.
- Are there any restrictions in regard to retired pastors’ involvement in the local church activities?
No. Retired pastors have the same rights and privileges in a local church as any or member.
- Could or should retired pastors be used to serve on committees, as facilitators, presenters and etc.?
Yes. Retired pastors have skills, gifts and graces that would be invaluable assets on committees, as facilitators and presenters. Retired pastors’ talents should be aggressively used.
- Can a retired pastor be a delegate to the General Conference?
It looks like retried pastors cannot be delegates to the General Conference according to The 2004 Discipline (Page 206), which states, “He or she shall be a member of the Conference that elects him or her and shall be in actual service within the bounds of that Conference, but having said that, retired bishops, retired general officers, and retired chaplains are members of the General Conference.
- Should or could a retired pastor be used as a supply pastor when needed?
The Discipline states, “Beginning in 2004 no itinerant minister who is seventy-five (75) years of age by his or her Annual Conference shall receive an appointment as presiding elder or pastor. The issue of serving as supply pastors is not addressed under Section XIII. Retired Ministers. If qualified pastors are not available, it would seem appropriate to let retired ministers serve as supply pastors. Retired pastors should be used as a supply pastor when needed.
2. THE REV. DR. CLYDE ODEN RESPONDS TO THE FINANCIAL CRISIS AND ITS IMPACT UPON EVERY AMERICAN:
God's hand is in this thing! Pastors need to address this very real financial crisis and an opportunity for real teachable moments.
My message to my church -- and it is part of my sermon on Sunday is that we are in the deepest financial crisis of our memory. Whether it is a recession or a depression the results are the same -- the only question is how long the pain?
Effects of recessions -- negative flows
- More Bankruptcies
- Fewer Banks lend less money
- Deflation -- prices dropping for goods and services
- More Foreclosures
- Reduced sales -- for almost all businesses
- Stock market crashing -- the equity will be reduced
- Greater Unemployment
As a result -- cash is king. If you don't need it -- don't buy it. If you can work a second job -- do it. Save, save and save. Put off buying that new car, unless the old one cannot be repaired. Save, save, save.
Don't try and borrow your way out. Save, save, save. This Christmas -- give love, not gifts! Really, I mean that!
And for Churches -- our contributions will be lower -- in some areas of the country -- much lower. The only offset -- is getting more people to give and bringing more people into the church sanctuary and in the life of the church; which we should be doing anyway!
The idea of Pastors flying everywhere to be seen at meaningless conferences -- is obscene. Save, save, save. We should have more teleconferences and fewer meetings.
One advantage I have -- I'm one of the few Pastors with an earned MBA (Pepperdine University). I read, and I think that I understand the financial pages. The swamp is real deep, the sewers are backing up -- and what is floating on the surface -- stinks!!
The one silver lining -- the nation knows that it needs fresh and intelligent leadership and this situation should be a reminder that we all need to get out and vote. The next President needs to have a 'handle on Wall Street, Main Street, and on the streets abroad, especially the streets of Iraq and Afghanistan.
*Dr. Clyde Oden is the pastor of Bryant Temple AME Church, Los Angeles. He is married to Velma Oden, a retired Registered Nurse. They are parents of three children, grandparents of three and great grandparents of one child. Dr Oden has been the pastor of Bryant Temple for six years and the membership has more than doubled during his pastorate. Dr. Oden is a retired health executive (President and CEO of a managed care company for more than 20 years) and a retired Optometrist. He has six earned degrees including an MBA from Pepperdine University, four degrees from U.C. Berkeley, including a Doctorate in Optometry and a Masters in Public Health, and I have a Masters in Divinity from Claremont School of Theology.
3. AME SOCIAL ACTION COMMISSION MEMO TO ALL MEMBERS OF THE AFRICAN METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH:
TO: Members of the African Methodist Episcopal Church
FROM: The Council of Bishops
- Bishop Paul John Mulenga Kawimbe, President, Council of Bishops
- Bishop John Richard Bryant, Senior Bishop
- Bishop Carolyn Tyler Guidry, Chair, The Social Action Commission
RE: A Commitment: In the next 90 days… We can and must make the difference!
As chair of the Social Action Commission, I have conferred with the Council of Bishops, in consultation following the 48th Quadrennial session of the General Conference, and re-affirmed the resolve that we must mobilize the entire membership of the AME Church to “act out” the legacy of this great church of Allen. Bishop Paul John Mulenga Kawimbe, as president of the Council of Bishops joins in validating this work as a part of the AME Church legacy on the continent of Africa and throughout the world. This communication serves to encourage any and all efforts that seek to create partnerships among all components and sectors of the AME Church in order to make sure that our voices are heard at the polls during the upcoming election season. The delegates, in session passed a resolution that included the following: “Whereas, we are in the midst of a national election year when we will elect the 44th President of the United States, as well as members of the United States Congress, state governors and other local officials, we call upon each of our congregants individually who are 18 years of age and above, to become registered and vote on election day. We urge all of our churches to conduct voter registration drives to register congregants and all eligible citizens in our communities, with special outreach to eligible ex-felons.
This is a seminal moment in American history and we thank God that we are alive to see what many of us thought we would not see in our lifetimes; both a woman and an African American to be major candidates for President of the United States. In this historic moment, we urge every component of the AME Church to make every effort be made to educate and mobilize voters to reach a 100% voter turn out on November 4, 2008. Bishop John Richard Bryant undergirds this mission with a resounding “AMEN”; urging AMEs to catch the vision.
We, as the progeny in our Zion “must” do our part, to ensure a positive and productive future for generations yet to come. Our very founding was the first civil rights movement in this country and the modern day civil rights movement were inspired by the action of an AME member, Deaconess Rosa Parks. Can we do any less that our forbearers? If we don’t step up to the plate, who will? It is left to us, to define what kind of future we want and deserve for ourselves, our families, our communities, and yes - our church. That means that we must urge every adult we can contact to VOTE in every general election, special election, and primary election.
“Some of you may already be involved in a Get-Out-The-Vote effort; if so, bravo; others intend to vote, but not make much fuss about it. If so, we urge you to go the extra mile, and we have provided you with a Plan of Action. We are asking that you reach out and include as many as you can, so that we can touch as many as we can,” concludes Social Action Officer, Jacquelyn Dupont-Walker.
Remember the date – Voter Registration Deadline - All in October but check longdistancevoter.org for details
General Election - November 4, 2008 in all 50 states in the USA
Remember the purpose – To bring alive the AME mission of encouraging self-determination, self-help, & self-reliance
Remember what we must do - Get Involved!! Vote!! Be responsible for insuring that at least 5 other persons vote!!
Remember when - NOW! It is not too early to start so; let’s get busy and make it happen!
For more information and to report the Voter Mobilization efforts you initiate, please contact SIStah “Jackie” Dupont-Walker, Social Action Officer of the Social Action Commission at jdupontw@aol.com or by FAX at 323-734-5003.
4. AME CHURCH KICKS OFF VOTER REGISTRATION, VOTER EDUCATION AND VOTER MOBILIZATION FOR NOVEMBER 4, 2008 ELECTION:
(Los Angeles) The African Methodist Episcopal Church (AME), a 221-year old international body, kicks-off the final phase of its Voter Registration, Voter Education, and Voter Mobilization Emphasis for the upcoming November 4, 2008 election season. “Several components within the church will assume leadership including AME V-Alert” and the Social Action Commission,” announces AME Social Action Commission chair, Bishop Carolyn Tyler Guidry on behalf of the Council of Bishops. This initiative has operated in 49 states and the District of Columbia with targeted resources in the battleground states. Its goal is to educate voters, register eligible voters, and “rally” voters for the upcoming November 4th election for the President of the USA, Congressional representatives, Governors, and significant others.
At the recent 48th Quadrennial session of the church’s General Conference the 2,000 person delegation unanimously passed a resolution to “urge all of our churches to conduct voter registration drives to register congregants and all eligible citizens in our communities, with special outreach to eligible ex-felons”
Our Council of Bishops, led by its president, Bishop Paul John Mulenga Kawimbe has urged us not waste this opportunity to give voice to our needs and concerns. On November 4th, we, along with every facet of the AME Church, will move our initiatives into real action by going to the polls and casting our vote. If we are to be recognized as a formidable force within our nation then it is crucial that each of our 2.5 million adult members must vote and each must commit to insure that 5 other persons cast their votes,” said Council President Kawimbe. “Now is our greatest opportunity to generate enough momentum to create an atmosphere that -- because of our large voter turnout -- will provide us with influence in not only the White House but the State House too,” added Bishop Guidry.
The AME Church’s voter mobilization spearheaded by the Connectional Lay Organization and the Social Action Commission will work tirelessly to provide its local organizations with voter informational and mobilization tools and strategies to navigate the political system. It will train its members how-to interpret local needs, distribute a Voter Guide, reach the lethargic and apathetic voter, inspire the youthful, establish networks, and outreach to recent immigrants. Whatever it takes to get out the vote on November 4th, it is our commitment to make the difference. Let’s just do it!
For more information about AME V-Alert contact: Jackie Dupont-Walker (213) 494-9493, Carl Davis (713) 523-9360, Reginald McGill (407) 296-5055, Annette Jones (202) 723-8182; for the Social Action Commission contact: 213-494-9493 or visit http://www.ame-church.org/.
5. AME CALL TO VOTE 2008:
The 2008 Presidential Election is critical to the progress, production and prosperity of our nation. The future is in the hands of those who exercise their right and privilege to vote. Every vote is important and every vote will count in this election.
There are a lot of grassroots intimidation and scare tactics being reported nationwide. Inform our members that there will be an Election Protection Hotline starting today thru November 4, 2008. Attorneys will be available to take calls when voters are denied their right or to report illegal intimidation activities.
The nationwide toll-free number is 1 (866) Our- Vote or 1 (866) 687-8683. More information is available on the Internet at www.unity04.net.
Sunday, October 26, 2008 is being designated “Protect Our Vote and Our Voice Day”. Voters should be encouraged in all of our congregations to:
• Locate your polling place prior to Election Day!
• Vote on Election Day!
• Vote Early! Find out about early voting locations and absentee voting rules.
• Be sure that members on sick and shut- in lists and college students vote via absentee ballots.
• Every vote counts! Your vote Counts!
• If denied your vote call Voter’s Protection Hotline 1 (866) 687-8683
• Report scare tactics to Voter’s Right Hotline 1 (866) 687-8683
• Call four people to go vote on Tuesday, November 4, 2008
• Buddy Check – before the polls close check with family members, neighbors and friends to see if they voted.
• Elderly or impaired members and residents of the community you serve are provided transportation either via church van or individual volunteers.
This is an important AME Call to Action! We must guard against those persons and organizations that desire to suppress our vote and our voice. Vote according to your own preference, but VOTE! Our forebears fought long and hard for us to VOTE. Let’s do them proud and “Lift Every Voice and Sing” through the ballot box on November 4, 2008!
Bishop Paul Kawimbe,
President, AMEC Council of Bishops
Bishop Carolyn Tyler Guidry,
Chair, AMEC Social Action Commission
Submitted by Mrs. Jacqueline Dupont Walker
6. HISTORY IN THE MAKING: THE TIME HAS COME:
*The Reverend Kyle C. Gibson
In the book of Ecclesiastes 3:1 of the New American Standard Bible, the Word states, “There is an appointed time for everything. And there is a time for every event under the heaven.”
In the Second Inaugural address of President Abraham Lincoln, at the beginning of the Civil War, one eighth of the entire population were black slaves. These men and women constituted a peculiar and powerful institution, and they knew this interest was somehow the cause of the war. Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation of 1863 had been issued during the Civil War as a military edict, affected only slaves in the portion of the commonwealth of the rebellion. But the time had come to end this 400 year Peculiar Institution.
It was the thirteenth Amendment to the U.S Constitution, which finally abolished slavery everywhere in the United States. Before his death, President Lincoln urged Congress to take such action. On January 31, 1865, the time had come and the Thirteenth Amendment passed the House of Representatives, and was ratified during the year by the required number of States, and on December 18, was proclaimed in effect. Slavery was no longer legal in America.
The time had arrived that the long fight of the abolitionist, black runaways and the Underground Railroad, had reached its fruition. A struggle that began ostensibly over states’ rights, and secondarily over slavery, had culminated into the freedom of the slave. Thus this action manifested and vindicated the faith of Fredrick Douglass in the American Constitution. As for the slaves themselves, newly set free, a new world came into existence and a new way of life began.
A few years later, as a combined effect of the Federal Civil Rights Act of 1866 and the Reconstruction Act of 1867, along with the ratification of the Fourteenth Amendment in 1868, all roads paved the way for the Fifteenth Amendment of 1970, which gave the right to vote to all African Americans. The appointed time had finally arrived.
Twelve years before the right to vote was granted to blacks, John Mercer Langston, was elected to serve as the town clerk of the city of Brownhelm, Ohio. This was the start of what was to become a 153 years political journey to the historic account we witnessed on June 3, 2008.
During the period of Reconstruction, several hundred African American men were elected to public office. I say “men” because women had not yet been granted the right to vote. Most of those elected, were elected to municipal offices; however several were able to achieve election or appointments to State and National offices. The first of five African American ever elected to U.S. Senate was Hiram Revels of Mississippi. He was elected to the seat once held by Jefferson Davis. The time had come!
On December 9, 1872 in Louisiana, Pinckney Benton Steward Pinchback was appointed to serve as the United States first African American Governor; he served for only 35 days. But this inspired other blacks to follow suit in following years. It has often been stated, that the first African American to run for President of the United States was Shirley Chisholm in 1972, but the historic first dates to 1872 when Fredrick Douglass was nominated for Vice President of the Equal Rights Party.
On May 26, 1961, in a New York Times article, the late Robert F. Kennedy, Attorney General of the United States, was quoted saying in a broadcast over the world, “Voices of America” that he “acknowledged the imperfections in America in the areas of equal rights for Negroes.” Kennedy said, “However, progress has been in this area so rapidly that there is no question that in the next thirty or forty years, a Negro can achieve the position of President if the United States.”
In 1968, Charlene Mitchell became the first African American woman to seek the nation’s highest office. As a third party candidate from the Communist Party USA she was only able to get on the ballot in two states, but the processes of breaking the glass ceiling of the nation’s highest office had begun.
In the city of Miami, at the Democratic National Convention in 1972, an African American from one of the major parties sought the nation’s highest office for the first time. Shirley Chisholm made one of the best efforts up to that time. In her book, “The Good Fight” Chisholm is quoted as she explains why she ran for the Presidency saying, “The next time a woman of whatever color, or a dark-skinned person of whatever sex aspires to be president the way should be a little smoother because I helped paved the way.”
Four years after Chisholm’s historic run, Ellen McCormack, a Democratic candidate, became the first woman and person of color to receive Federal Matching Funds and receive Secret Service Protection to run for the office of President. McCormack would return in 1980 to make another run as a third party independent candidate. She helped to further pave the way for African Americans and women and come closer to breaking a glass ceiling that was once thought to be unreachable and unbreakable.
During the 1976 campaign, the Communist Party USA ran Angela Davis for the nation’s highest office. Angela Davis would go on to make several other runs for President. She never won any states but she help to pave and continue clearing the path already laid.
Being inspired, by the noble pioneers that attempted before him, in 1984 and 1988 respectfully, the Reverend Jessie Jackson of the Democratic Party raised the ladder which helped to further crack the glass ceiling of the Presidency, by gathering the most support of any candidate up to that period of time. Then in 1988 and again in 1992, Dr. Lenora Fulani ran for the nation’s highest office as an Independent and became the first African American and Woman to have her name placed on the ballot in all fifty States.
In 1996 and every year since, Alan Keys of the Republican Party has made a very impressive run for President. This representation now left no party without a woman of African American that has run a candidate for Commander in Chief. In 2004, The Reverend Al Sharpton and Carol Mosley Brown out of the Democratic Party continued to press upward to break the glass ceiling. In 2008, Cynthia McKinney of the Green Party continued the process of seeking the nation’s highest office.
For 153 years, African Americans have successfully run for every position in the United States from town clerk to U.S Senator and even Governor. Now we stand one step closer to watching the glass ceiling come crumbling down. On June 3, 2008, the nation witnessed for the first time in US History, an African American capture the required delegate votes necessary to become a major party’s nominee for President of the United States.
This historic moment has been an evolution of events that have occurred over the past 153 years. Often times in history, the question has been asked, where were you? Or do you remember? In my 38 years, the memorable events of my life have been Neal Armstrong’s walking on the Moon, Watergate, the end of the Vietnam War, Miami Dolphins’ perfect season, integration of schools, major protest on college campuses (Kent State), the Black Panthers, the digital and computer age, the tearing down of the Berlin Wall, Martin Luther King, Jr. National Holiday, Marine barracks bombing in Beirut, the fall of apartheid in South Africa, Nelson Mandela’s election as President of South Africa and the terrorist attacks on 9-11.
Regardless of your feelings on each event mentioned, every one of them is historic. We all are in the midst of history in the making.
Will history be made in November? Only the Creator knows. One thing for certain, regardless of the final outcome, this has certainly been one of the most historic election of all times. One day when the question is asked, ‘Do you remember the Presidential Election of 2008?’ what will be your answer?
*The Reverend Dr. Kyle C. Gibson is the Senior Pastor Bethel AME Church Deland, Florida
7. JOINT CENTER ENGAGES TENNESSEE LEADERS ON PRESIDENTIAL HEALTH CARE PLANS AND HEALTH EQUITY:
(Nashville, Tennessee) – Addressing racial disparities in health care coverage and access should be a key element of the next President’s health care reform program, according to local political, community, academic and business leaders who met to discuss the issue on the eve of the second Presidential debate in Nashville.
The briefing was convened by the Joint Center for Political and Economic Studies (Joint Center), a Washington, D.C.-based think tank that focuses on the concerns of African Americans and communities of color, in the wake of its recent report comparing the health care proposals of the two Presidential candidates and the implications of such plans for minorities.
The event, hosted by Meharry Medical College and co-sponsored by Belmont University’s Health Equity Projects, was a forum for raising questions and concerns regarding health disparities, as well as an opportunity to highlight current efforts to address them. Participants included representatives from private hospitals, medical schools, public policy research organizations, public health organizations, local businesses and the Tennessee Department of Health.
“Racial and ethnic disparities in access to health care are persistent and troubling. Eliminating them will require our nation to address the social and economic dynamics that influence and determine health in our communities,” said Joint Center President and CEO Ralph B. Everett. “To do that, we need to ensure that state and local leaders from across the nation become active and engaged in this task and that the Presidential platforms for health care are fully discussed and understood, and that is why we are here in Nashville today.”
Wayne J. Riley, President of Meharry Medical College, said, “We are in the throes of a national crisis and we can no longer put off finding solutions to the nation’s health care problems…because of our mission and proven track record of meeting the health care needs of the underserved and underrepresented.” “This open forum by the Joint Center for Political and Studies is a vital step in the right direction because it provides the opportunity to discuss both candidates’ health plans so Americans can make an informed decision in the election.”
The Joint Center’s recent report, Health Care Proposals of the 2008 Democratic and Republican Presidential Nominees: Implications for Improving Access, Affordability and Quality for America’s Minorities, was issued by the think tank’s Health Policy Institute (HPI) in partnership with Drexel University’s School of Public Health and Health Management Associates, a leading health care research and consulting firm. The report was generously funded by W.K. Kellogg Foundation in support of the Joint Center Health Policy Institute’s National Health Policy Training Alliance.
HPI is one of the nation’s top research-based, public policy institutes providing critical analysis of key health issues. Grounded in its mission, “to ignite a Fair Health Movement that gives people of color the inalienable right to equal opportunity for healthy lives,” HPI uses both research and public-awareness activities to provide technical assistance and analytical support to policymakers and others as they consider options for addressing health equity and improving the health care system.
The Joint Center for Political and Economic Studies is one of the nation’s premier research and public policy institutions and the only one whose work focuses exclusively on issues of particular concern to African Americans and other people of color. For more information, go to http://www.jointcenter.org/
8. MEHARRY MEDICAL COLLEGE LAUNCHES ITS FIRST HEALTH CONFERENCE DEDICATED TO ELIMINATING HEALTH DISPARITIES AMONG WOMEN OF COLOR:
Conference to focus on Physical, Mental and Spiritual Health
(Nashville, TN) – Meharry Medical College, a leader in eliminating health disparities through education, research and patient care, will present a four-day conference on October 16 – 19, 2008 to address the significant health disparities in HIV/AIDS, breast cancer and obesity among women of color.
Officially called the “Sisters Partnering All-together “SPA” Health Conference 2008: Destination Wellness,” the event represents a collaboration between Meharry Medical College and Heart and Soul Magazine, a source of health and fitness information for African-American women. The conference will take place at the Gaylord Opryland Resort and Convention Center in Nashville, Tennessee.
“SPA Health Conference is for all women . . . we are our sister’s keeper,” says Valerie Montgomery Rice, M.D., the Senior Vice President for Health Affairs, Dean of the School of Medicine and Executive Director of the Center for Women’s Health Research (CWHR) at Meharry Medical College.
Dr. Montgomery Rice is urging women to attend this groundbreaking conference to learn how to manage their own health, and how to advocate for themselves and the communities in which they live – all in an effort to make better personal health decisions.
“There is a lot of great information about health disparities, but not a lot of discussion about change. This conference will give women the opportunity to empower themselves and their community and make positive changes,” says Dr. Montgomery Rice.
The SPA Health Conference will feature a comprehensive slate of workshops, panels, free health screenings, spa services, networking sessions and other events geared toward equipping women with information and inspiring them to live healthier, more productive lives.
The workshops and presentations will be hosted by Meharry Medical College physicians and will feature appearances by former U.S. Secretary of Labor Alexis Herman, Bishop Vashti McKenzie, and spiritual life counselor and author Iyanla Vanzant.
Planned Workshops:
“Saving Our Lives – Saving Our Breasts”
African-American women have a lower incidence of breast cancer, but a higher mortality rate. Discussions will center on earlier detection and life-saving research taking place at Meharry Medical College using digital mammography.
“Challenge: Obesity”
This workshop will address the challenge of obesity and the unhealthy burdens obesity places on a woman’s body and resulting diseases.
“Real Issues, Real Answers: How Safe is Sex?”
An open forum that presents an opportunity to discuss the growing rate of AIDS and sexually transmitted diseases within the African-American community, particularly, young people ages 16-30. African-Americans make up 13 percent of the population in the United States, but account for 50 percent of new AIDS diagnosis.
Also happening this weekend:
“Divas Against Disparities” Center for Women’s Health Research 4th Annual Benefit Concert”
The Meharry Medical College Center for Women’s Health Research will present its 4th annual benefit concert on Saturday, October 18, 2008 at 8:00 p.m. at the historic Ryman Auditorium. Entitled “Divas Against Disparities” the event will feature musical artists Angie Stone, Mary Mary and Lalah Hathaway. Proceeds from the concert will benefit the Center for Women’s Health Research.
Registration and detailed event information is available at www.spahealthconference.com or call 800/834-8813 x118; early bird rates are available until October 1. Individual tickets are being sold for select events.
Sponsors for the "SPA Health Conference 2008: Destination Wellness" include Wal-Mart / Sam’s Club, HCA, Amgen, Gaylord, Bridgestone Firestone, Office of Women’s Health and Piedmont Natural Gas.
About Heart & Soul Magazine
Heart & Soul, published bi-monthly by Heart & Soul Enterprises, LLC, is the leading source of health and fitness information for African-American women. For more information about Heart & Soul, and/or to contribute to its blog, please visit the Web site at http://www.heartandsoul.com/.
About Meharry Medical College
Meharry Medical College is the nation’s largest private, independent, historically black academic health center dedicated solely to educating minority and other health professionals. The College is particularly well known for its uniquely nurturing, highly effective educational programs; emerging preeminence in health disparities research; culturally sensitive, evidence-based health services; and significant contribution to the diversity of the nation’s health professions workforce. Diverse Issues in Higher Education’s ranking of institutions annually lists Meharry as a leading national educator of African Americans with M.D. and D.D.S. degrees, and Ph.D. degrees in the biomedical sciences. http://www.mmc.edu/
9. CLERGY FAMILY CONGRATULATORY NOTICE(S):
- Congratulations to Terrance Green, a grandson of Presiding Elder Delano L. & Rev. Juanita L. Bowman as he has released his first book entitled "Becoming an All 'A' Student: The Quick & Easy Guide to Getting A 4.0"
This is a must read for every high school and undergraduate student in your congregation. To secure your copy today, order it online at http://www.limitlessattitude.com/
Congratulatory greeting can be sent to Terrance via email at terrrancegreen2003@yahoo.com.
Submitted By:
The Rev. Dr. Delano L. Bowman, Sr., Presiding Elder
Notable North District
Michigan Annual Conference
4th Episcopal District
10. EPISCOPACY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
Mrs. Susie Jamar Thomas, widow of Bishop Cornelius Egbert Thomas, passed on Wednesday, October 1, 2008.
The Homegoing of former Episcopal Supervisor Mrs. Susie Jamar Thomas was celebrated on Monday, October 6, 2008, at 11:00a.m. (CST) at:
St. John A.M.E. Church
708 15th Street North
Birmingham, Alabama 35203
Phone: (205) 251-3764
The Reverend J. Arthur Rumph, Pastor
Bishop James Levert Davis, Presiding Prelate
11. CELERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
We share the news of the passing of Ms. Shana B. Wilder, daughter of Presiding Elder and Mrs. J. Bernard (Sarah Powell) Wilder, Eastern District, Western North Carolina Conference, Second Episcopal District. Ms. Wilder passed on Thursday, October 2, 2008.
Service Arrangements for Ms. Shana B. Wilder:
The funeral has been held.
Expressions of sympathy may be sent to:
Presiding Elder and Mrs. J. Bernard Wilder
2429 Kennington Road
Raleigh, NC 27610
(919) 834-3164
Email: preacha_bernie@yahoo.com
12. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
We share the news of the passing of Mrs. Alice Viola Johnson Page, widow of the Reverend Warren A. Page, former Presiding Elder of the Portsmouth/Eastern Shore District of the Virginia Conference of The Second Episcopal District.
Service arrangements for Mrs. Alice Viola Johnson Page:
The funeral has been held.
Expressions of sympathy may be sent to:
The family of Mrs. Alice Viola Johnson Page
C/o Emanuel AME Church
637 North Street
Portsmouth, VA 23704
13. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
We regret to share news of the passing of Mrs. Mildred Williams, the widow of former 5th Episcopal District Presiding Elder P. Albert Williams, and the mother of Reverends Rachel, Rikki and Prince Williams. Mrs. Williams passed on Friday, October 3, 2008.
Service arrangements for Mrs. Mildred Williams:
Saturday, October 11, 2008
Visitation: 10:00 a.m.
Home-going Celebration: 11:00 a.m.
First A.M.E. Church
1111 North 8th Street
Kansas City, KS 66101
Phone: (913) 371-2805
The Rev. Anthony Steele, Sr., Pastor
The Rev. Steven A. Cousin, Sr., Presiding Elder
Kansas City District-Midwest Conference
Bishop Theodore Larry Kirkland, Presiding Prelate
5th Episcopal District
Service arrangements are entrusted to:
Lawrence A. Jones & Sons Funeral Home
1800 E. Linwood Blvd.
Kansas City, MO 64109
Phone: (816) 921-1800
Fax: (816) 924-2113
Expressions of sympathy may be sent to:
The family of Mrs. Mildred Williams
421 N. 83rd Terrace
Kansas City, KS 66112
Or faxed to: (913) 906-1936
In lieu of flowers, the family request that donations be made to the American Diabetes Association in the name of Mildred Williams.
http://www.diabetes.org/home.jsp (see: Memorial Donation)
14. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICES AND CONGRATULATORY ANNOUNCEMENTS PROVIDED BY:
The Clergy Family Information Center
Bishop Carolyn Tyler Guidry, Chair
Commission on Social Action
Mrs. 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 Richard Franklin Norris; 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
