The Reverend Dr. Johnny Barbour, Jr., Publisher
The Reverend Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III, Editor, The Christian Recorder
>“Happy New Year and hopefully, TCR Online is back on schedule.”
1. EDITORIAL – I AM NOT A BAPTIST, I AM NOT A PENTECOSTAL AND I AM NOT A MEMBER OF A NONDENOMINATIONAL CHURCH…:
Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III
The 20th Editor of The Christian Recorder
I feel a need to preface this editorial with the explanation that, like most of you, as a Christian, I feel that I am a part of the family of God. I believe in “God the Father Almighty, Maker of Heaven and earth and in Jesus Christ His only son…” I cannot speak for anyone else’s spiritual journey, only my own. I have chosen a particular path as I make this spiritual journey. I don’t expect everyone else to believe as I do; that might be nice from my standpoint, but I understand the realities of life. I make my choices and other people make their choices. I have made a choice to be a member of the African Methodist Episcopal Church and I am glad about it. Apparently, there are a number of you who share the same spiritual-journey choice that I have made. My choice is not a criticism of the choice others have made.
I am not a Baptist, I am not a Pentecostal and I am not a member of a nondenominational church; I am a Methodist and more specifically I am an African Methodist, and I am glad about it.
I don’t want or have a need for a worship service that mimics a Pentecostal service. If I wanted a Pentecostal worship service experience, I would have joined a Pentecostal church; they can do the Pentecostal “thing” better than we can.
I am perfectly at peace with the AME liturgy, especially when the liturgy is Holy Spirit-filled; and is executed with decorum, dignity, and drama. I don’t have to lift my hands in the air as an expression of showing God praise, because I can best show God praise by the way that live and in how I treat my neighbor.
I love the Doxology and have no trouble with singing the Doxology at the opening and closing of worship; and I love the Gloria Patri. As I think about it, I believe that it was the order of worship that drew me closer to the African Methodist Episcopal Church when a lot of my friends had gravitated to the Baptist church; to the Church of God in Christ, and to other denominations.
I love to hear the Decalogue; and I can listen to the full Decalogue every Sunday; if it is recited with the presence of the Holy Spirit and with feeling and drama. On the other hand, if it is done without spiritual focus, feeling and drama; then the Abridged or Summary of the Decalogue works for me. I suspect that some pastors have eliminated the Decalogue because they have not mastered the liturgical skill to incorporate the Decalogue, as it was meant to be, in the worship liturgy. I have seen parishioners shout on the Decalogue. When I was a young pastor, I could determine the spiritual focus of the service by the time we finished the Decalogue.
I am comfortable the three modes of baptism, and especially with sprinkling. I am happy that our Zion baptizes infants; I am theologically comfortable with that.
As a matter of fact, most of Christendom is comfortable with infant baptism, because most churches on the planet earth baptize infants; and have been baptizing infants since apostolic times. Immersion is a late doctrine that didn’t appear as a religious doctrine until the 16th Century.
I am comfortable with the term, “christen,” which means to baptize. If one researches the term, “christen,” it has always been synonymous with the term “baptism.” The American Heritage College Dictionary defines “christen” as, “To baptize into the Christian Church.” I don’t know how the term “christen” got so misunderstood. In the apostolic church whole families were baptized; adults and children. Methodism and most of Christendom does not withhold baptism to allow children to decide if they want to be Christians or not; we make them Christians through baptism and upbringing. The child can decide later in life if he or she does not want to be Christian. Judaism does not wait for a male child to decide if he wants to be a Jew; they perform the circumcision on the eighth day, which makes a male child a Jew; and later in life a man can make the decision that he does not want to be a Jew. The sacrament of baptism is the same principle as circumcision; baptism is a “type” of circumcision. There are some decisions that parents must make for their children, and baptism should be one of those decisions.
I am ecstatic with our doctrine of the “Open Communion.” I love the Methodist concept of the “Open Table.” “You that do truly and earnestly repent of your sins and are in love and charity with your neighbor, and intend to lead a new life… draw near with faith,” is so dear to me. We are a unique church, we are an open Church. I love the fact that we do not exclude people who want to share in the Lord’s Supper. We are a church that follows the teachings of Jesus. I have not read anywhere in scripture where Jesus excluded anybody from His meal ministry. When he fed the Five Thousand and the Four Thousand, he fed them all; Jesus did not exclude the children, nor did he exclude the women. He welcomed them all to His table.
I love the doctrine of “Free Will” and am turned off by the doctrine of “eternal security” or “once saved, always saved.” We, Methodists, believe that a person can “fall from grace.” We do not accept the notion that God has pre-determined who will be saved. Methodism believes that salvation comes by grace alone and that salvation can be lost and that salvation is based upon continued faith. Simply put, Methodists believe that it is the sinner's choice of Christ, not God's choice of the sinner that is the ultimate cause of salvation.
I am glad that I am an African Methodist because we are Connectional Church. I love the episcopacy and the concept of the itinerant ministry. I just wish that more of our ordinands would trust the power of God to supply all of their needs, “… according to God’s riches…”
Bishop Carolyn Tyler Guidry preached a dynamic sermon at the 2009 Church Growth and Evangelism Conference that was held in Jacksonville, Florida in which she challenged pastors to be obedient to the “Great Commission.” She reminded those who accepted the call to ministry that Jesus promised to be with them and that pastors are not in the battle of ministry alone.
I love the AME Church because we have Bishops who care and who are among the best preachers in the world.
I love the AME Church because we have caring pastors who shepherd their flocks in good times and in bad times. They meet all of their obligations and are faithful to Christ and to the African Methodist Episcopal Church.
I love the AME Church because we have lay members who love the Church; and are faithful to the cause of Christ and the ministry of the local church; no matter who is assigned as their pastor.
I love the AME Church because of the faithful pastors and faithful laity that labor year in and year out to lift up the banner of Christ.
So, I will say again, I am not a Baptist, I am not a Pentecostal and I am not a member of a nondenominational church; I am a Methodist and more specifically I am an African Methodist, and I am glad about it.
2. READER RESPONSE TO EDITORIAL AND OTHER ISSUES:
- To the Editor:
RE: http://www.callingpost.com/ - Reach Everyone in Your Congregation or Group with One Call
My church, Mt. Zion AME in Norristown, Pennsylvania has been using Callingpost for more than a year, and it has been very beneficial in getting the word out quickly and efficiently. Our Philadelphia Conference Lay Organization has also become users. I would highly recommend it to all.
Brother Henry J. Murray
3. BISHOP ADAMS TO BE HONORED WITH “KEEPERS OF THE FLAME AWARD”:
The African American Church Inaugural Ball is honoring Bishop John Hurst Adams as one of the honorees of the "Keepers of the Flame" Award.
Bishop John R. Bryant serves as one of the Honorary Chairs of The African American Church Inaugural Ball.
4. 144TH SESSION OF THE CALIFORNIA ANNUAL CONFERENCE WELCOMES BISHOP T. LARRY KIRKLAND AND EPISCOPAL SUPERVISOR MRS. MARY L. KIRKLAND:
The 144th Session of the California Conference welcomed our new Episcopal Leadership team, Bishop T. Larry Kirkland and Episcopal Supervisor Mrs. Mary L. Kirkland. This season was ushered in with the 5th District Annual Conference theme, “Influence,” taken from Micah 6:8; “He has shown you, O man, what is good, and what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.”
The Rev. Dr. Booker T. Guyton was the host Presiding Elder and Rev. Dr. Vernon S. Burroughs was the Co-Host Presiding Elder. Under the outstanding leadership of Reverend Donna Maria Davis, Ebenezer A.M.E. Church, Stockton hosted the 144th Session of the California Annual Conference with grace, competence and a spirit of warm hospitality.
On Tuesday, October 21, 2008, the Women’s Missionary Society under the direction of WMS California Conference President Sister Regina Bryles convened. 5th District WMS President Sister Beverly Thomas conducted the elections. Sister Irma Douglas Lastra was elected as President. President Bryles was commended for eight years of service. The evening service evolved around the theme, “It’s a New Season” and special tributes welcoming Episcopal Supervisor, Mrs. Mary L. Kirkland. Supervisor Kirkland performed the new member Capping Ceremony.
On Wednesday, October 22, 2008, at 9:45 a.m., Bishop T. Larry Kirkland assembled the Clergy of the California Conference and offered prayer. Bishop Kirkland called the 144th Session of the California Conference to order and welcomed Bishop Richard Allen Chappell to the Conference.
The Opening Worship Service was held at the Airport Hilton Hotel, Oakland California. The Reverend Clinton Stancil, Pastor of Brookins A.M.E. Church preached a powerful message taken from Psalm 22:1-5, on the subject, “What Happens When Your Experiences Won’t Line up with Your Expectations?” The Psalms remind us that, what we want or expect is not what we will experience. Often our expectations do not line up with God’s will, we must seek God.
The Men’s Community Night Service opened with an immense processional of men. Bishop Kirkland introduced the preacher, Bishop Rufus K. Turner, Victory in Praise Church, Stockton, California. Bishop Turner preached from the theme, “Mighty Men of Valor” taken from Judges 6:1-16. Bishop Kirkland presented the Man of the Year certificates to each congregation.
The California Conference Clergy Family Organization under the direction of Sister Mary Mayo Mayberry, President, hosted a welcome luncheon. Episcopal Supervisor Mary L. Kirkland installed the newly elected officers. Sister Dezie Woods-Jones was installed as President.
The Lay Witness Night theme was “Refocusing Our Ministry to Serve the Present Age”, under the direction of California Conference Lay President Loe Ressie Montgomery-Branch. A power point presentation chronicled the California Conference Lay organization over the past sixty years from 1948-2008. Dr. Dorothy Vails-Weber, 5th District Director of Lay Activities was the speaker and she offered a challenge to remember “The Mission”, and do what God asked, and the people will follow. Sister Sandra Threadgill was presented as the newly elected California Conference Lay President. Tom Sutton, 5th District Lay President commended President Montgomery-Branch for eight years of service.
The Ordination Sermon was preached by Bishop Richard Allen Chappelle, Sr. Bishop Chappelle preached from the subject, “Launch Out into The Deep.” He reminded us that to toil means to work. Like the Disciples we may catch nothing, experiencing failure first, but when we stay with it long enough, we will experience success after realization, that we must be in the place God would have us to be.
The California Conference Young People’s and Children’s Division under the direction of CCYPD Director Tracy Bowers began their evening with a time of prayer. The presence of the Lord filled the room as the CCYPD showcased their talents. Sister Richelle Fry Skinner, 5th District YPD Director, conducted elections and Miss Nikita Bracy was elected as President. Miss KaDijah Brown, 5th District President, presented the CCYPD Pastor of the Year award to the Reverend Dr. Harold R. Mayberry, Chairperson of the Episcopal Committee and Pastor of First A.M.E. Church, Oakland, California.
The Closing Worship and Commissioning Service were held at Allen Temple Baptist Church, Oakland, Ca. on Sunday October 26, Rev. Dr. J. Alfred Smith, Sr., host pastor. Bishop T. Larry Kirkland preached a timely message on the theme “Situation Critical but Not Hopeless”; the scripture text was, Acts 27:20. Bishop Kirkland challenged our faith in trusting God to work things out even when we can’t see the end.
The Annual Conference culminated with a first-class Welcome Reception for Bishop T. Larry Kirkland and Episcopal Supervisor Mrs. Mary L. Kirkland, sponsored by the 5th Episcopal District. The Welcome Reception was hosted by First AME Church, Oakland, California, where the Rev. Dr. Harold R. Mayberry servers as the senior pastor.
Submitted by Marilyn Lovelace, Director of Public Relations of the California Conference
5. BLOUNT SERVES ON FAITH FORMATION INTERFAITH PANEL:
*By the Rev. Jeanette Pinkston
ALBUQUERQUE - The Rev. Dr. Reginald Blount, senior pastor of Trinity A.M.E. Church in Waukegan, Ill., participated in an interfaith panel discussion on “Faith Formation and Youth” at the Christian Educators Fellowship (CEF) and Preaching from the Center (PFTC) conferences held in Albuquerque, New Mexico, November 24-27, 2008. The Conference theme was “Blessed to Be a Blessing.”
Speaking to over 600 Christian educators and pastors attending the joint event, which celebrated the United Methodist-related organizations’ 40th and 60th anniversaries, respectively, Blount told the gathering that “We tend to pastor adults and program youths. Some [people] even question whether we pastor adults well.”
“I don’t think that we recognize the needs, yearnings, hurts and challenges that our young people have in their lives that require pastoring and not just another program,” said Blount, who is also associate professor of Formation, Youth and Culture at Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary in Evanston, Ill.
Blount was one of three panelists selected to serve on the interfaith panel, which also included: the Rev. Marjorie Thompson, an ordained minister in the Presbyterian Church, USA, and director of the Pathways for Congregational Spirituality at The Upper Room in Nashville; Dr. Ihab El-Kady, physicist at the University of New Mexico and representative from the Speaker’s Bureau of the Islamic Center of New Mexico. A rabbi who was invited to participate was unable to attend.
The Rev. Dr. Safiyah Fosua, GBOD director of Invitational Preaching and moderator of the panel, asked the panelists to respond to five guiding questions about faith formation from several perspectives. The panelists were asked to describe the process of faith formation in their community for children, new converts, and those who are lifelong members; explain when this process begins; identify who is responsible for ensuring that [the process] takes place, who actually teaches and/or mentors; and describe the role of women in this process.
A word of advice to this generation
In closing, Fosua gave the panelists the opportunity to give advice to the current generation of Christian educators and pastors. She asked the distinguished members of the panel “if there is one way that this generation has failed in faith formation, what is that? And if you could give this generation one word of advice, what would that be?”
The Rev. Marjorie Thompson suggested that “we have failed over several generations to teach spiritual practices, to teach people how to pray. We talk about prayer, but we don’t teach people how to pray and parents don’t know. In many cases our pastors don’t even know. We’re beginning to rediscover spiritual practices. We cannot embody what we do not know. Teaching how to meditate on Scripture, how to study it, and how to get it from head to heart—we have not taught well,” she said.
Dr. Ihab El-Kady told the gathering to “practice what you preach. Do not preach something you are not practicing. What you do determines the outcomes. It is impossible for one to practice one thing and preach a different issue. If the religion has ideals that are not reflected in our life—we cannot expect that our children will follow the ideals. For example, if you are trying to teach someone to be forgiving and you are never forgiving, no way is he going to come out a forgiving person,” El-Kady said.
The first-ever joint event allowed for the sharing of space, plenary sessions, speakers and other resources, in addition to creating a safe space to listen to each other.
“The camaraderie is just beautiful,” says the Rev. Charlotte Evans, pastor of Warren Chapel A.M.E. Church in Freemont, Ohio. “You get a lot of ideas that you can take back, and we do use the information in reporting back to our Christian educators,” said Evans, who is also the Christian education director for the Third Episcopal District of the A.M.E. Church.
An affiliate organization of the United Methodist Board of Discipleship, the Christian Educators Fellowship nurtures, supports, challenges and advocates for persons with responsibility for fostering discipleship through Christian education. In existence since 1968, CEF is open to all persons who serve the church in the area of Christian education. PFTC, which is sponsored by GBOD, was started 60 years ago to focus on the unique needs of pastors and sermon preparation and delivery.
*Pinkston is an associate pastor of Lee Chapel A.M.E. Church and serves as director of media relations for the General Board of Discipleship in Nashville, Tenn.
6. BETHEL AMEC, MILFORD, DELAWARE OFFERS SERVICE FOR JOB SEEKERS:
Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church is the first church in Delaware to join the Department of Labor’s Share program, allowing it to provide job-hunting services for members of the public at no charge.
The Rev. Gregory P. Nelson, pastor of Bethel, pushed to get the church involved after he attended a program for the religious community at a Department of Labor seminar. He says he realized immediately how much potential it had for Milford.
Thanks to SHARE, the Bethel AME Church Community Center has four laptop computers and printers available for job seekers to assist them as they look for positions by location, employer and type of work across the tri-state area. Job seekers can prepare resumes, with help from trained volunteers who helps them to fine-tune it; and fax or email applications to hundreds of employers at a time. The service is free
Rev. Nelson, a former businessman who worked for Donald Trump’s Trump Organization before entering seminary, said running a Share program gives him the opportunity to use his experience in the secular world to better help the people of his community as a pastor.
The Center is open to the public on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
The Milford site is the first location for a free, privately run service like this in Delaware
Submitted by Edna M. Sharp
Email: Mrsedna@aol.com
7. PRESIDING ELDER CHARLES H. LETT, SR. CELEBRATES 30 YEARS IN THE MINISTRY:
Sister Angelena Spears
Philadelphia Conference Reporter
In 30 years, the Rev. Charles H. Lett, Sr., has touched the lives of many people. And as a testament to his positive influence, former church members and friends came out in large numbers to attend a special service in honor of his 30 years in the ministry.
The commemorative service was held November 30 at Mount Zion AME Church in Norristown, PA—the same church where he preached his trial sermon on February 19, 1978, under the pastorate of the Rev Mickarl D. Thomas.
Since that time, Rev. Lett has served as the pastor of three churches in the Philadelphia Conference, and in 2004 was named presiding elder of the South Philadelphia District.
Those who pressed their way to the Sunday evening service came to pay tribute to a man they found easy to love and respect over the years.
They painted a picture of a man who, in the words of the Rev. Kanice Johns, had served the church “with love, dignity, caring and sharing.” Rev. Johns is the pastor of Mount Zion where the Lett family worships.
Sister Pearl Smith remembered when Elder Lett had initially joined Mount Zion in the 1970s. She characterized him, even in the early years, as being known for his “integrity, openness, directness, creative thinking, problem solving, and even risk taking.”
Brother Howard Pitts, a steward at Greater Disney AME Church, Philadelphia, recalled that when Elder Lett had come to Disney in 1982 there had only been 19 members, however, during his eight years there, over one hundred people joined the church.
Elder Lett’s second pastoral charge was Bethel AME Church, Bryn Mawr. Dr. David Martin, who had served as Elder Lett’s pastor’s steward at Bryn Mawr, reflected on the harmony that existed under Elder Lett’s leadership. He noted that Elder Lett had always been fair-minded and friendly, and that in addition to being a good preacher, he had also been a good teacher.
On a more personal note, Dr. Martin reflected on the year his mother had died and the funeral had been in Durham, NC. Dr. Martin said that when he walked through the doors of his mother’s church, the first person he saw [to his surprise] was Rev. Lett -- who had traveled all the way from Pennsylvania to be there.
Sister Evelyn Hampton, of AME Union Church, Philadelphia, also offered similar sentiments of appreciation. She referred to Elder Lett as being “a kind man, and a praying man who loved the children in the church.”
“He was never unkind and was always willing to listen to you”, Sister Hampton said. She said that when members became ill, Elder Lett sometimes seemed to get to the hospital before the members arrived.
Bishop Richard Franklin Norris, the presiding prelate of the First Episcopal District delivered a rousing sermon based on John 4:39, which he titled, “Come See a Man.”
Bishop Norris said that when he became the bishop of the First Episcopal District, just months after Elder Lett had been named presiding elder, “it didn’t take long to understand that he was a consecrated presiding elder.”
Bishop Norris thanked Presiding Elder Lett for his guidance and said that he [Elder Lett] understands the importance of his work.
The music during the service was amazing. Members of the congregation sat at the edges of their seats to enjoy the harmony of a male vocalist group called, “The Three Tenors.” They sang two selections that were perfect for the occasion -- “Jesus Will Supply,” and “Is My Living In Vain?”
Other vocalists included Sister Valerie Barr, who referred to the Lett family as her “friends and family.” Sister Barr had been a member of AME Union Church under Elder Lett’s pastorate. Sister Barr sang “Beams of Heaven.”
The Rev. Juanita Walters, the pastor of Allen AME Church, Oxford, PA, referred to herself as Elder Lett’s daughter in the ministry. Her tribute to Elder Lett was her awesome rendition of “To God Be the Glory.”
Last, but not least, of the musical tributes was offered by Sister DeVita Jones, who is Elder Lett’s god daughter. She spoke about how encouraging Elder Lett had been to her when her own father had died. Sister Jones sang, “I Won’t Complain” in a way, that few will ever forget.
All three of Elder Lett’s children made remarks during the service – his daughter Tiffany Lett Martin and sons, Charles Lett Jr., and David Lett.
During her remarks, Tiffany (who is also an itinerant elder) shared her admiration of how her father had seamlessly balanced being a father and a pastor over the years. She said, “Wherever we went, dad served the people.” She said she had observed through her dad’s years of ministry that, “If you love the people, they will love you back.”
When Elder Lett had an opportunity to give remarks, he thanked his wife, Sister Sylvia Lett first, and presented her with a bouquet of flowers. He acknowledged that “without her, my life and ministry would not have been a success.”
Within his remarks, Elder Lett admitted that over the years there had been a love affair with each of the churches he had served as pastor. He said he never went to a church, looking for another appointment.
The words of wisdom he offered to the pastors in attendance were: “Don’t worry about church politics. Just pastor your churches. Love your people and love the Lord and never forget to love your family – because at the end of the day, that is what you have – your family.”
8. QUESTIONS TO BEGIN THE NEW YEAR:
*The Rev. N.T. Pitts
The year, 2008 has come to an end.
The four horsemen have run and will continue to run. The white horse of victory; the red horse of revolution and strife; the black horse of famine and the pale horse of death will run in 2009.
The horses were partners; they seldom ran alone. Before we begin the New Year it is imperative for each of us to ask ourselves questions.
Most of us don't like to be questioned because questions make us think. And we don't want to think because it brings on a change and we don't want to change because we are satisfied with most of the things in our lives, the way we are.
Questions irritate us, questions provoke us, questions convict us, and questions expose us.
We need to ask questions rather than make resolutions and broken promises.
There are questions throughout the Bible that are relevant to us:
God asked Cain, “Where is Abel, thy brother?”
Cain asked God, “Am I my brother's keeper?”
Nebuchadnezzar asked the Hebrew boys, “Is your God able to deliver you?”
Job asked, “Who can bring a clean thing out of an unclean?”
Micah asked, "What doth the Lord require of thee?"
Malachi asked, "Will a man rob God?"
Nathaniel asked, “Can any good thing come out of Nazareth?”
My question to you is, “Do you want 2009 to be like 2008?”
It’s your choice; If 2008 wasn’t what you wanted it to be, you have the ability to make 2009 better!
May God grant you a most spiritual and prosperous New Year and may 2009 be the year that you want it to be.
*The Rev. N.T. Pitts is a retired AME pastor who lives in Eatonville, Florida
9. CLAIMING YOUR VICTORY - “A BLOOD TEST”:
*The Reverend Dr. Michael C. Carson
Blood is essential to life for it is “… the life of all flesh; the blood of it is for the life thereof…” (Leviticus 17:14 b)
“… Behold the Lamb which taketh away the sin of the world.” St. John 1:29
“Blood carries oxygen and nutrients to the tissues and carries waste products away.” Blood has always been God’s most clear and convincing method of atoning for sin. There are a number of times in the Bible when only through the shedding of blood was atonement made for humankind and the remission of sins granted.
All spiritual warfare must be “bathed” in the blood of Jesus!
From time-to-time God places us to the test to see if we will be obedient to God. Only when we are willing to sacrifice or lose that which we really love for God can God know we are sincere when we tell God “I will follow and trust you.”
John the Baptist exclaims, “Behold the lamb that taketh away the sin of the world.” God loved you and me so that God sacrificed his son Jesus Christ for the world. Jesus paid the price for our sin. “Oh Lamb of God, sweet Lamb of God!”
Jesus Christ took away the guilt and power of sin by becoming our scapegoat. Who among us would take upon him/herself the sin, wrong doing, and mistakes of someone else therefore accepting whatever punishment was due him/her?
But that’s exactly what Jesus Christ did for you and me! “Was it for crimes that I had done he groaned upon the tree amazing pity grace untold and love beyond degree.”
God received payment in full for the debt of sin owed to God while also saving the sinner. Through the blood of Jesus we are reconciled to God and Satan is put to flight. The life giving blood of Jesus Christ takes away the “waste of sin” that if were left to remain in us would poison us.
A great song of the church points out that the blood of Jesus “reaches to the highest mountain and it flows through lowest valley. The blood that gives me strength from day to day it will never loose its power.” The love of God for us through Jesus compels us to be a blessing and not a curse to others.
My wife Evangelist Catherine L. Carson states “Whenever we seek the forgiveness, direction, and protection of God we put the blood of Jesus to the test. The blood of Jesus always receives an A+.”
When’s the last time you put the blood of Jesus Christ to the test? Have you asked God through the blood of Jesus Christ to forgive you of whatever sin you committed by omission or commission, by thought, word, or deed? Have you asked Jesus to strengthen you for your journey?
“Have you been to Jesus for the cleansing power? Are you washed in the blood of the lamb? Do you fully trust in his grace this hour? Are you washed in the blood of the lamb? Are you washed in the blood, in the soul-cleansing blood of the lamb? Are your garments spotless? Are they white as snow? Are you washed in the blood of the lamb?”
Peace with justice, be blessed real good, attend worship, and families matter.
*The Reverend Dr. Michael C. Carson is the Fourth Episcopal District Director of Public Relations and pastor Union Memorial African Methodist Episcopal Church in Benton Harbor, Michigan.
10. NEGATIVE CONFESSION OF CHRIST:
That man should not think he will receive anything from the Lord; he is a double-minded man, unstable in all he does. – James 1:7-8
Do you posses, walk in or speak a negative confession of Christ? Persons who demonstrate this type of confession, which may include all of us at one point or another, say one thing but do another. We are double minded. We tend to doubt ourselves and others. We say what we believe, but our actions demonstrate what we believe is contrary to what we say. We complain and criticize situations and others for their flaws, their failures to correct issues, and their imperfections in general. We say we believe in God’s ability to change situations and people, but we describe others and sometimes ourselves as though we know those things will always be as they appear.
When we act in disbelief or doubt we are presenting a negative confession of Christ. When we expect and accept success for others but not ourselves we are presenting a negative confession of Christ. When we accept lacking, non-prosperous, counterproductive circumstances of broken or dysfunctional relationships, impoverished conditions, and unhealthy lifestyles and do not believe they can or will ever change we are presenting a negative confession of Christ. Why would I say that? Am I saying God will fix everything right away, or God will fix everything we think is wrong with our lives or those we love? Absolutely not! I am simply applying and reinforcing what Jesus told the ruler of the synagogue whose daughter had already died while she awaited Jesus’ arrival, “…only believe.”
Trusting in God means we walk in the faithful belief, which is all things work to the good for those who love God and are called according to His purpose. When we believe this and walk in this confession things about us change; things like our disposition, our countenance, our happiness, even our physical appearance will change. One thing I had to remind myself the other day, “Part of my purpose, as a believer, is to be a 'light bringer' or a lighthouse. How can I possibly bring light if I question or doubt my source? I will not shine, if I do not believe – even for me.”
Read: James 1:2-12, Mark 5:21-43, Romans 8:26-28 (KJ)
Prayer: I thank you, Lord, for the ability you give me to overcome fear and walk in a confession which affirms your power. I pray my words and actions may be honorable in your sight. In your name, Jesus, I pray. Amen!
The Rev. Tobias L. Pace is the pastor of Bethel AME Church in Shelbyville, Kentucky
11. AFRICAN METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH EVENTS AND CONNECTIONAL MEETINGS:
Council of Bishops Retreat
January 12 - 16, 2009
Westin – Memphis, Beale Street
170 George West Lee Avenue
Memphis, TN 38103
(901) 334-5900
Compilation Committee Meeting
Thursday, January 22nd and Friday, January 23rd, 2009
January 22 - 23, 2009
The Renaissance Hotel in Nashville, TN
Travel arrangements should be made through Sailair Travel for all Compilation Committee members.
Please visit the official AME Website for more details:
http://www.ame-church.com/news-and-events/connectional-meetings.php
Bishop C. Garnett Henning, Chairperson
Sessions to begin Thursday at 10:00 am and conclude at 2:00 pm on Friday
WMS Executive Board Meeting
January 28 - 31, 2009
Agenda | Registration Form
Registration info:
- Early Bird Registration (on-line) by 11/7/08: $220.00
- Registration between 11/8/08 – 1/4/09: $270.00
- Late Registration between 1/5/08 – 1/21/08: $310.00
- On-Site Registration: $350.00
Louisville Marriott Downtown
280 West Jefferson Street
Louisville, KY 40202
(800) 533-0127
Deadline: January 6, 2009. Hotel cost is a flat room rate of $99.00 per night, one bedroom suite; $250.00 per night.
Ministries in Christian Education
April 16-18, 2009
Nashville, TN
General Board and Council of Bishops
June 23- 25, 2009
The Board will open on Tuesday morning, June 23rd, and conclude its business on the 24th.
The Investiture Banquet for Bishop Guidry will be on Tuesday evening, the 23rd.
The Council Service will be on Thursday morning, June 25th at 10:00 a.m.
Business Sessions Monday-Tuesday
Investiture, Monday, June 29, 2009
New Orleans, LA
Connectional Lay Biennial
July 26-30, 2009
Peabody Hotel
Three Statehouse Plaza
Little Rock, AR
(501) 906-4000
Extracted from the Official AME Website:
http://www.ame-church.com/news-and-events/connectional-meetings.php
12. EPISCOPACY AND CLERGY FAMILY CONGRATULATORY NOTICES:
- Centenarian's Birthday Celebration - Mother of Supervisor
Mrs. Doris A Webster, the mother of Episcopal Supervisor Vivienne L. Anderson and the mother-in-law of Bishop Vinton Randolph Anderson will be 100 years old on January 1, 2009.
The family gathered from across the USA and Bermuda at the Anderson’s home on New Year's Day for the birthday celebration.
Well wishes can be sent to the Anderson home:
Mrs. Doris A. Webster
22 W Sherwood Drive
Overland, MO 63114
Phone: 314-427-2711
FAX: 213-429-4794
Congratulatory messages may be sent to Mrs. Anderson: vivianderson27@aol.com
- On December 6, 2008 the Reverend Walter Henry was united in holy matrimony to Ms. Wendy Oliver Hodges. The wedding took place at New Tyler AME Church, Memphis, Tennessee where the Reverend Charlene Boone-Hinson is the pastor. Bishop Vashti Murphy McKenzie conducted the marriage ceremony.
The Reverend Henry is pastor of Providence AME Church, Memphis and the son of Mrs. Caledonia L. Henry, Superintendent of the Church School of the Eastern District of the Baltimore Conference. The former Ms. Hodges is the 13th Episcopal District CDMC Commissioner and the daughter of the Reverend Patsy T. Brown, former pastor of St. Mark AME Church, Munford, Tenn.
Congratulatory messages can be e-mailed to: wrh019@hotmail.com
13. EPISCOPACY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
Melvin Davis, husband of Mrs. Felita Grady Davis, peacefully slipped into eternal bliss Friday, January 2, 2009 while watching one of his favorite pastimes, football. He was the father of two children: Cara Leigh Davis and the late Melvin Grady Davis; son of Mrs. Daisy Davis; son-in-law of Bishop Zedekiah L. and Mrs. Carrie Robertson Grady (Ret.) and brother-in-law of Mrs. Constance Grady Woodberry and Rev. Carey A. Grady.
His Christian witness was exemplified through his loyal membership and dedicated service as a member of the Board of Trustees of Chappelle Memorial AMEC (Columbia, SC); the Rev. James E. Thompson, pastor.
The Funeral has been held.
Expressions of Sympathy and Condolences may be sent to:
Mrs. Felita Grady Davis and Cara
2216 Dunvegan Drive
Columbia, South Carolina 29209
Phone: (803) 783-5829
Email: fgd23@bellsouth.net
Or
Bishop Zedekiah L. and Mrs. Carrie Robertson Grady
1 Wespanee Drive
Charleston, SC 29407
Phone: (843) 766-9569
Fax: (843) 556-8659
14. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
We are saddened to share news of the passing of the Reverend William R. Porter (retired), former Pastor of Hemingway Memorial AME Church, Washington, D.C. Reverend Porter passed on Tuesday, December 30, 2008.
The funeral has been held.
Expressions of sympathy may be sent to:
Mrs. Doris Porter and Family
3444 N Street, SE
Washington, DC 20019
Phone: (202) 575-4563
Or
To the family: rps14069@msn.com
15. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
We regret to inform you of the passing of Mrs. Irene T. Jordan, the mother in law of the Rev. Carolyn V. Jordan, pastor at Fairview AME Church in Woodlyn, PA (Delaware Conference, Wilmington District).
The funeral has been held.
Condolences may be sent to:
The Rev. Carolyn Jordan
Fairview AME Church
124 Youngs Avenue
Woodlyn, PA 19094
Or
The Rev. Carolyn Jordan
618 N. 57th Street
Philadelphia, PA 19131
16. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
We regret to inform you of the passing of Mr. William Burl Sweat, the brother of the Rev. Wink Sweat, Sr., pastor of Saint James AME Church in Covington, KY (Kentucky Conference, Lexington District) this past Friday, January 2, 2009. The following information has been provided regarding funeral arrangements.
The funeral has been held.
Condolences may be sent to:
Reverend Wink Sweat, Sr.
118 Lynn Street
Covington, Kentucky 41011
wsweatwinkco@aol.com
17. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
We regret to inform you of the passing of Brother Carl Benson, the husband of Rev. Frances Benson, pastor of John Wesley AME Church in Dover, Delaware (Delaware Conference, Dover District). Brother Benson was also the father of Trina Walker, the Delaware Conference Director of Christian Education.
The funeral has been held.
Condolences may be sent to:
The Rev. Frances Benson
142 West Milby Street
Harrington, DE 19952
Phone: 302-398-8561
18. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
We regret to inform you of the passing of Brother Tommy L. Glass, the youngest brother of Rev. Lula Custis, pastor of Mt. Zion AME Church in Swedesboro, NJ (New Jersey Conference, Atlantic City District).
The funeral has been held.
Condolences may be sent to:
The Rev. Lula Custis
53 Eden Roack Lane
Willingboro, NJ 08046
Phone: 609-880-1444
19. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
We regret to inform you of the passing of twenty-three year old, Shankel Mark Gladden of Baton Rouge, Louisiana; the son of the Rev. Margaret Simms, pastor of Bethel AME Church in Dequincy, Louisiana, and step-son of the Rev. Andrew Simms, pastor of St. John AME Church, Biloxi, Mississippi.
Shankel Mark Gladden passed early Thursday morning, January 1, 2009 as the result of a tragic automobile accident.
The funeral has been held.
Expressions of sympathy and condolence may be sent to:
Rev. Margaret Simms
Rev. Andrew Simms
4327 Sherwood Street
Baton Rouge, LA 70805
Phone: (225) 356-0032
Or to:
Allen Chapel A.M.E. Church
6175 Scenic Highway
Baton Rouge, LA 70805
Condolences to the Rev. Margaret Simms: Revmesimms@aol.com
20. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
We regret to inform you of the passing Mrs. Aldessa Gregory on December 24, 2008. Mrs. Gregory was the mother of the Rev. Dr. Albert R. Gregory, pastor of Bethel AME Church-Belton, Texas, (Northwest Texas Conference-Paul Quinn District).
The funeral has been held.
21. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
We regret to inform you of the passing of the Rev. William H. Smallwood, an outstanding retired Presiding Elder and pastor for many years in the First Episcopal District.
The funeral has been held.
Resolutions can be faxed to Mother Bethel or e-mailed to: motherbethel@aol.com
Condolences may be sent to:
The Rev. Gloria Smallwood (daughter) and/or to
Ms. Carole Smallwood-Statham (daughter)
6227 Ellsworth Street
Philadelphia, PA 19143-2912
22. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
It is with sadness that we inform you of the passing of Mr. John Goodwin, the father of Mrs. Jackie Reynolds and the father-in-law of Presiding Elder Clarence Reynolds, Camden-Eldorado District-Central Arkansas Conference, 12th Episcopal District.
Arrangements for Mr. John Goodwin are as follows:
The funeral has been held.
Condolences and expressions of sympathy may be sent to:
Presiding Elder and Mrs. Clarence Reynolds
3206 Highway 9
Carthage, AR 71725
Phone: (870) 254-2305
23. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
We are saddened to announce the passing of Mrs. Mattie R. Chaney, the mother of the Reverend Joe Chaney, Pastor of Mt. Everett A.M.E. Church, Greensburg, Louisiana. Mrs. Mattie R. Chaney passed on Friday, December 26, 2008.
The funeral has been held.
Expressions of sympathy may be sent to:
The Rev. Joe Chaney
279 Chaney Road
Greensburg, LA 70441
Phone: (985) 514-3842
Email: JoeC@sthelenaso.org
24. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
We are saddened to share news of the passing of Mrs. Lucilla Moore, the mother of the Reverend Carl A. Moore, Sr., Pastor of Allen Temple A.M.E. Church, Woodstock, Georgia. Mrs. Lucilla Moore, age 95, passed on December 24, 2008.
The funeral has been held.
Expressions of sympathy may be sent to:
The Rev. Carl A. Moore, Sr., Pastor
Allen Temple A.M.E. Church
232 Arnold Mill Road
Woodstock, GA 30188
Phone: (770) 926-6348
Fax: (770) 926-1103
Email: Cmoore@allentempleame.org
Contact via Cell: (404) 993 - 6348
25. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
With deepest regrets, we announce the passing of Mrs. Isabelle Brown Rich, the mother of Dr. Patricia A. Outlaw, Pastor of St. Paul A.M.E. Church, Adamsville, Alabama. Mrs. Rich passed on Wednesday, December 24, 2008.
The funeral has been held.
Condolences can be sent to:
Dr. Patricia Outlaw at: paoutlaw@samford.edu
Or
Dr. Patricia A. Outlaw, pastor
St. Paul A.M.E. Church
4229 School Street
Adamsville, AL 35005
Phone: (205) 674-8249
26. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
We are saddened to announce the passing of Sister Carolyn Armwood (the wife of the Reverend Jasper Armwood, pastor of Bethel AME Church, Luling, Texas (Southwest Texas Conference-San Antonio District) on Friday, December 19, 2008.
The funeral has been held.
Condolences may be sent to:
The Rev. Jasper Armwood
901 W. Sylvia Street
Beeville, Texas 78102
Ph: (361) 362-1229 (Home); (361-319-0396 (Cell)
27. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
We are saddened to announce the passing of Mr. James Rougeau of Port Arthur, Texas on Friday, December 12, 2008. Mr. Rougeau was the brother of Sister Mary Mays and the brother-in-law of the Rev. Theo Mays (Pastor and First Lady of Anderson Chapel AME Church-Wichita Falls, Texas (Northwest Texas Conference-Greater Fort Worth District).
The funeral has been held.
Condolences may be sent to:
The Rev. & Mrs. Theo Mays
1022 Roosevelt Street
Wichita Falls, Texas 76301
Ph: (940) 732-4714
28. 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
29. 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.
