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 – IT’S IMPORTANT TO KNOW WHY WE DO WHAT WE DO:
Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III
The 20th Editor of The Christian Recorder
I had heard the AME Call to Worship from as far back as I remember, but it was years later that I learned that the AME Call to Worship came from passages of the Bible. And, then it was some years later that I learned where in the Bible the sentences came from.
We recite the Call to Worship in most African Methodist Episcopal Churches each Sunday, but I wonder how many of our worshippers know that the AME Call to Worship is scriptural. Here is the traditional AME Call to worship with scriptural references.
Minister: I was glad when they said unto me, let us go into the house of the Lord, our feet shall stand within thy gates O Jerusalem. (Psalm 122:1-2)
People: For a Day on our courts is better than a thousand. I had rather be a doorkeeper in the house of the Lord than to dwell in the tents of wickedness. (Psalm 84:10)
Minister: Because of the house of the Lord our God I will seek thy good. (Psalm 122: 9)
People: Those that be planted in the house of the Lord, shall flourish in the courts of our God. (Psalm 92:13)
Minister: Blessed are they that dwell in thy house. Lord, I have loved thy habitation, the place where thy honor dwelleth. (Psalm 26:8)
People: For the Lord is in his holy temple: let all the earth keep silence before him. (Habakkuk 2:20)
Minister: Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in thy sight, O Lord, my strength and my redeemer. (Psalm 19:14)
People: O sing unto the Lord a new song, for he has done marvelous things. Make a joyful noise unto the Lord, all the earth, sing praises. (Psalm 98:1b, 4)
It was also some years later that I learned that all of the hymns in the AME Hymnal, as well as the hymns in other denominational hymnbooks are based upon scripture.
For instance, Bless the Lord, O My Soul is based upon Psalm 103:3; the Doxology is based upon James 1:17; Father, I stretch My Hand to Thee is based upon Psalm 88:9; the Gloria Patri is based upon Philippians 4:20; and the Offertory, All thing come of thee O Lord, is based upon Matthew 6:10.
Hymns can be based upon more than one scriptural text. Many praise songs are based upon the Psalms and some of those listings are found on Number 805 in the back of The AME Hymnal. The Scripture References in hymns is found at Number 806.
I have only seen one bulletin with hymns and their scriptural references and that was at the 2009, 6th Episcopal District Planning Meeting that was held in Savannah, Georgia.
Clergy and laity would benefit spiritually and worship would be enhanced if parishioners knew the biblical and theological connection of the acts of worship.
When I made a presentation at the 2009 3rd Episcopal planning Meeting, one of the participants shared that the Reverend E. Anne Henning Byfield, Presiding Elder of the South District, Indiana Annual Conference, had published a brochure, which explained the Order of Service for the AME Church. I called Presiding Elder Byfield and what a treat, when I received her materials. Her brochure, The Explanation of the Order of Service for the African Methodist Episcopal Church, is a “must-read” for clergy and laity. Presiding Elder Byfield gives a thoughtful explanation for all of acts of the “worship service” and explains that we use the word, “service” because we are bound to God by the obligation to worship.
My AME foundation was laid at Bethel, Ardmore; Bethel Bryn Mawr in Pennsylvania, and at Ebenezer Rahway, New Jersey; the opening song was always a hymn of praise. When the young people sang and we wanted to sing one of those rocking gospel songs, the pastors at all three of those churches always held their ground and the opening hymn was not to be negotiated to something else.
I followed that practice in my ministry because that’s what I was taught and the example I saw.
Presiding Elder Byfield provided the “eye-opening explanation; she explains, “All music is vitally important in Christian worship. Singing is one way worshippers with one voice praise God. Music is one way that the uniqueness of the African American experience is manifested in worship. Hymns are used at several points in the service.” Now here is the kicker, she goes on to explain, “The first hymn should be a burst of praise that has a definite motion towards God as it offers up the sacrifice of united, common words.” That tells me that care should be taken when selecting the hymn of praise. “Pass me Not O Gentle Savior” is a beautiful hymn and a great invitational or prayer hymn, but it might not be appropriate for the opening hymn. The gospel song, “I won’t Complain” is a beautiful song, but it probably shouldn’t be the opening hymn of praise. The AME Hymnal has a list of hymns appropriate for adoration and praise.
I have always known that in Methodism we have the prayer before the scripture, but no one explained to me, why. Rev. Byfield explains that “In the Methodist tradition, the invocation comes before the scripture as we petition God’s presence before reading the Word.”
The choral or prayer response was something we have always done; I remember the prayer response from as far back as I remember. Byfield explains, “The Choral response is an act of affirmation and thanks that our prayers have been answered. It is the essence of the word, ‘Amen”… so be it.”
An interesting note about the Altar Call that I hadn’t thought of was the significance of the Altar Call for AMEs, not only because we believe in the priesthood of all believers, but “It was through the denial of prayer to Absolom Jones, Richard Allen, and others that the denomination was eventually formed.” The recollection of Richard Allen and the others being pulled off of their knees, gives the altar call, today, for me, greater significance.
AME worship done at its best is inspirational, spiritual, and life-changing, especially if we know why we do, what we do.
The Reverend E. Anne Byfield says in her book, Let the Worship Begin, “Our liturgical form must be affirmed so the beauty and passion for God may be reclaimed and our faith tradition extended into a new generation. When we fail to 'marry' tradition in the context of relevance, we kill the ability to those around us to go on. There must be reclamation of the principles of why we do what we do.”
Let’s all of take the time to find out and to discover why we do what we do and to resist the temptation to discard what we don’t understand.
The Rev. E. Anne Byfield Henning can be reached at:
P.O. Box 55106
Indianapolis, IN 46266
Email: pehenby@aol.com;
2. CLARIFICATION AND COMMENTS FROM THE RIGHT REVEREND JEFFREY LEATH, PRESIDING PRELATE FOR THE 19TH EPISCOPAL DISTRICT:
The Connectional Budget for Districts 14-20 is handled differently from the way the Budget is collected from Districts 1-13. The Treasurer, Dr. Richard Lewis, deducts the Connectional Budget for Districts 14-20 from their Global Development Budget. It is taken, in its entirety, at the beginning of the fiscal year. Districts 14-20 then raise funds in their episcopal districts to replace the deducted funds and therein, restore the support to the program of Global Development.
Also, on the point of pastoral evaluations, I am an advocate of Steward Board evaluation of the pastor (as a part of the PE's evaluation). This is very unpopular with many pastors! I think it is traditional and necessary.
1. In many areas of our Zion, there has been, for a long time, the "traditional" 4th quarterly conference letter from the stewards to the presiding elder "requesting" (or not) the return of the pastor at the annual conference. Formally or not, this letter should have had a basis; and, that foundation is called evaluation.
2. Pastors should encourage the stewards to meet privately to discuss the "performance" of the pastor. Courtesy and protocol should dictate the pastor's knowledge of the meeting, and this limited agenda should not be seen as an opportunity to discuss other matters without the knowledge and consent of the pastor.
3. The editorial in the 16 April online edition of The Christian Recorder does not emphasize, although your other writings may have, the positive value of evaluations beside documentation of problems.
a. A proper evaluation is the end of a process which should have begun with expectations at the beginning of the period. Many pastors do not succeed because they have not adjusted work priorities to different congregations. Some congregations value community involvement more than sick visitation, for example. Clearly negotiated ministry plans will make for happy officers, members and pastors.
b. Weaknesses and strengths of pastors can be addressed, once identified. If the care of the elderly is an identified weakness, the pastor can both try harder and fill in the gaps by properly deploying stewards and staff clergy. The people can focus on exactly "why" they don't like the pastor's service and have concluded that the pastor is not a good match for the congregation. Having had a fair opportunity to make adjustments, pastor and people can move forward with satisfaction or part ways with dignity and kind feelings through Godly judgment.
4. Churches should have clear, realistic goals which arise from a mission statement and a 5-year plan.
As a bishop, I would like to know if I need to find a pastor to go to the new work and implement the great existing plan, or do I need a pastor to bring together a good plan for a congregation which has no spiritual vision. Vision is not the exclusive domain of the leader. Many fail, or make situations fail, because the people are jerked around by a succession of pastors with different visions, none of which were inspired by the common purposes of the single Holy Spirit.
5. We must replace the "boss" mentality (at every level) with the spirit of "submission" for the good of the team (God's will for the Kingdom). Evaluation is not a threat to the authority of the evaluated by the evaluator; it is an enhancement to the effectiveness of properly constituted authority. A church officer once took the opportunity to inform me that the church pays my salary and is essentially my employer/boss. I agreed. The church is my boss in the same way that as a taxpayer I am the employer/boss of a police officer. Even as employer/boss I cannot order the police officer to ignore my speeding and stop writing a traffic ticket. Authority will not be an issue if everyone respects their own domain and the responsibilities of their co-workers for the kingdom. Ultimately, the kingdom, the power and the glory belong to God. We are heirs who do our best day by day.
3. WORSHIP THROUGH GIVING - ST. JAMES A.M.E. CHURCH MARION, SOUTH CAROLINA:
The St. James AME Church located at 5333 South Highway 41 Marion, South Carolina express their love for God and humanity through their Outreach Ministry of feeding the hungry and clothing those in need. During these times of economic hardship, the pastor, the Rev. Georgeann T. Pringle and her congregation have answered the clarion call to help those experiencing distress. Rev. Pringle believes that in these critical times it is imperative for the church to be a beacon light on the hill and put feet to the Gospel.
Sister Mary Taylor, the Coordinator of St. James’ Food Bank Ministry, worked tirelessly in going through the process and getting the application approved. Through her success we have partnered with Harvest Hope Food Bank of Florence, South Carolina. The official grand opening was on Thursday, February 19, 2009; however, Harvest Hope needed someone to acquire the mobile pantry they already had in excess which consisted of bagged food for 175 families. The St. James family has a mind to work and with only a two-day notice to set-up a mobile pantry they gathered a team together to assist the residents of Marion County on Monday, February 16th. During those two days over 300 households were assisted. Not only were the people able to get food for free, they were also able to shop for free at the clothing closet ministry, with Sister Doris Green, Coordinator, helping them with their needs and a few desires. Many persons have donated their Sunday best to support the clothing closet ministry.
The Outreach Ministry is in the third month, and the donations from community persons and businesses have been overwhelming. The Church offers this service to Marion County residents (although persons traveling as far as Florence and Latta, South Carolina) had made the journey. The ministry is available every third Thursday in the month, and to-date they have assisted over 550 families, providing an estimated 800 bags of food. Rev. Pringle stresses to her congregation that “It takes teamwork to make the dream work.” The members of St. James are excited about the ministries and church growth they are experiencing, and show their love and appreciation by sharing their time, talents and resources. It takes a lot of time to prepare to receive the hundreds of people that come through the doors of the C.B. Glenn Fellowship Hall at St. James. However, the people of God have accepted the charge to be viable witnesses through compassionate ministry that expresses the Goodness of the Lord in the Land of the Living. Feeding and clothing the less fortunate is the result of a body of believers who desire to participate in the redemptive plan of God for humankind.
Along with the Pastor and the Coordinator’s, the following persons have given of themselves to support the Outreach Ministry: Brother John and Sister Maggie Oxendine, Brother Benedict Stevenson, Brother Arthur L. Godbolt, Brother James L. Williams, Sister Doris Stevenson, Sister Ruth C. Reed, Sister Mary Lynn Boyd Ladson, Sister Anglo Williams and Brother Charles Pringle, Sr., (Pastors Spouse), not to mention several others who use lunch hours or take time from work to come and support the efforts. This team works diligently in preparing for the hundreds of people that come through the C.B. Glenn Fellowship Hall monthly to receive their blessing.
St. James truly believes that prayer changes things; and before any food or clothing is distributed, Rev. Pringle, offers an uplifting, encouraging, spirit-filed prayer to the packed room of visitors. The St. James AME Church mission is to feed, clothe and educate those who are less fortunate and in need. The Pastor, her spouse along with the St. James Church family is committed to ministering beyond the walls and lives out their motto, Building Bridges…Changing Lives.
4. MUSEUM IN THE MAKING:
By Mrs Diane Allen
St. James AME, Gray, Georgia
If you saw Ward Chapel AME Church today and it looked familiar, you must have seen the movie, “The Color Purple.”
Amazing, but true, we are quickly approaching the 25th anniversary of the release of the book, “The Color Purple” written by Alice Walker.
Yes, almost 25 years ago, we were introduced to Miss Celie, Harpo, Sophia, Squeak and nobody will ever forget Mister.
The church you saw in the movie was a model structure made for the movie set of Ward Chapel AME Church, which is located in Eatonton, Georgia along a stretch of road quaintly decorated with seasonal purple wild flowers. In addition to the breath taking purple flowers, there is a lot of history that barely stands today, but is crying out to be preserved and shared with the generations to come.
Ward Chapel AME church is currently a condemned building that barely stands still on the side of Wards Chapel Road, in Eatonton, Georgia. This is the church where Alice Walker received her Christian education through the strength and tradition of African Methodism as we still know it today.
Eatonton, Georgia is a small rural town, located in Putnam County, which is the dairy capital of the state of Georgia. Approximately 55 miles outside of Atlanta we are trying to preserve AME history and pay tribute to Alice Walker, Author of “The Color Purple” and Pulitzer Prize recipient for her literary works and contributions. The sketch above the photo is our goal. The Ward Chapel Historic Museum Committee, led by Retired Rev. Ralph Bass and his wife, Sister Antoinette Bass along with several others in the community have taken on the daunting task of raising $400,000 to re-build Ward Chapel AME so that it can once again teach and enliven the rich history of the African Methodist Episcopal Church and capture the childhood and coming of age of Alice Walker.
Eatonton, Putnam County and the surrounding area are extremely rich in literary history as the area acknowledges other well known literary names such as Joel Chandler Harris, Journalist and Author of the Uncle Remus stories and Flannery O’Conner. There are museums in the area dedicated to both but no official place of recognition for Ms. Walker. Ward Chapel AME and a family cemetery are a part of the Georgia Authors Tour however because of the buildings current condition; it is not accessible to visitors.
The committee will be hosting “Dinner and Movie Night Out” at The Plaza in Eatonton on Saturday, June 13th. On September 12th, we will host a community day. The current standing structure will come down before then and the community will be invited out to celebrate the beginning of the project on the site.
Ward Chapel AME is part of the East Macon-Milledgeville District, under the distinguished leadership of Bishop William P. DeVeaux and Elder Benjamin Ridley. Rev. Frederick Allen, Jr., Pastor of St. James AME, Bradley and his wife Diane Allen are residents of Eatonton and serve on this committee.
If you, your church and/or your church organization would like to be part of this project, please do not hesitate to send donations. All are encouraged to make a pledge or purchase square footage that will be noted with your church or organizations name, affiliation and address. Square footage is available for $100 per square foot.
All donations are welcome and should be sent directly to the following address:
Ward Chapel Historic Museum Project
Attention: Rev. Harriett Camp
P.O. Box 4244
Eatonton, Georgia 31024
If you have questions or need additional information about the efforts to restore and rebuild the Ward Chapel Museum, please contact Janie Reid, Putman County commissioner and Ward Chapel committee Member at 706-473-1781 or Diane Allen at 706-817-8407.
5. NOBLE NORTH DISTRICT SOWING SEEDS FOR CHURCH GROWTH IN SOUTH FLORIDA:
*The Rev. William E. Cooper Jr.
North District, Director of Public Relations
Presiding Elder Vincent F. Mitchell Proclaims: “The Church Must Grow!”
WEST PALM BEACH – The Holy Spirit filled St. Paul AME Church on Haverhill Road during three days of gospel-preaching, bible-teaching and soul-winning on Feb. 15-17 at the Noble North District Conference.
Under the dynamic leadership of Presiding Elder Vincent Floyd Mitchell and District Consultant Magdalene Mitchell, the 25 churches that comprise the Noble North District came together in a spirit of worship and thanksgiving. The district convened under the theme “Sowing Seeds and Raising God’s Kingdom through Faith, Love and Service” and the district’s goal was stated: “Growing a Healthy Church: The Church Must Grow.”
The district conference opened Sunday night with a powerful word from retired Presiding Elder John Archie Mainer, Presiding Elder Mitchell’s father in the ministry. Presiding Elder Mainer gave us a word for the ages, using St. Matthew 13: 44-45 as his scripture and his subject was “A Sacrificial Investment.”
Presiding Elder Mainer reminded us of the cost of following Christ. That Christians must be persistent, use power over fear and not be easily swayed by nay-sayers. He said, “It takes effort to live the Christian life. We must be willing to give up all to follow God.” Presiding Elder Mainer said we must be persistent because, “our hope is built on nothing less than Jesus’ blood and righteousness.”
When the district reconvened Monday morning, clergy and lay went to their respective workshops, which were moderated by the Rev. Waymon T. Dixon, Director of Continuing Education for the 11th Episcopal District. Rev. Dixon is pastor of St. Paul AME (Delray Beach).
The clergy dispersed to the dining room, where they were led by the Rev. Milton Broomfield, pastor of Payne Chapel AME (West Palm Beach) and Sister Marcia Andrews, also of Payne Chapel, led a session entitled, “Developing Social Services and Ministries.” The ministers received presentations from a host of social service agencies, including the Urban League, Center for Family Services, the American Heart Association, Sickle Cell Foundation, Alzheimer Foundation, Legal Aid Society and the United Way.
The sessions were informative and the presiding elder encouraged pastors to take the information back to their churches in order to launch ministries and partnerships with the social service agencies.
Meanwhile, the laity remained in the sanctuary, where District Evangelist, the Rev. Melvin Hymes, pastor of Mt. Zion AME (Belle Glade) and the Rev. Pauline Gwen Livatt, pastor of St. Stephens AME (Okeechobee) facilitated the session on, “Doing the Work of An Evangelist.”
The session was spiritually moving and encouraged us to monitor our congregations and not overlook how visitors are being treated. We were also encouraged not to talk negatively about our churches. Rev. Livatt stressed that churches should focus on being hospitable and kind to visitors.
The lay also learned that they can evangelize in their everyday living. They can invite people to church, but it’s even better to share your testimony about how the Lord saved you. The clergy joined the lay to round out the session just prior to the noon day worship service.
The Rev. Livatt was the noon-day preacher and she spoke from the subject “How to Pack a Church.” She stirred our souls by challenging us not to make excuses for having empty churches.
“Empty saints make for empty seats,” the Rev. Livatt said.
But she also reminded us that God has prepared a banquet table for his children and whatever we need is on the table: “Joy is on the table. Love is on the table. Peace is on the table. Forgiveness is on the table. Salvation is on the table.”
That evening, the spirit was still moving, when Presiding Elder Mitchell presented, the Rev. Hudson Williamson, pastor of St. Paul AME (Boynton Beach). Presiding Elder Mitchell warned the District not to be fooled by Pastor Williamson’s size. Calling him the “Little Preaching Giant,” the Presiding Elder stated that as Rev. Williamson preaches, he will increase in stature.
Rev. Williamson lived up to the Presiding Elder’s proclamation. Using the subject, “What Makes a Church Grow?” the preacher of the hour dissected the word like a surgeon, challenging us to be saved and sanctified.
“Churches aren’t growing because we have unsaved folks running them,” the Rev. Williamson said.
He encouraged the pastors to get back to the basics: “Teach and Preach the word of God.”
His message probed our hearts and forced us to look inward to see if we are part of the problem or part of the solution. Using Peter’s Pentecost experience as a back-drop, the Rev. Williamson gave us a blue-print to follow in order to spark church growth.
The district convened for its closing session on Tuesday with emphasis on Operation Hope, an 11th Episcopal District Project designed to engage the church in mentoring children.
The Rev. Clarence and the Rev. Dr. Angela Bess, the ministerial team at Hurst Chapel AME (Riviera Beach), are spearheading the project at the district level as well as working with Bishop McKinley Young, Presiding Prelate of the 11th Episcopal District, on a series of initiatives.
The Children’s Home Society was on site, providing the necessary training for clergy and lay to become certified mentors. The certification provides the proper credentials for the district constituency to mentor disadvantaged youth and their families.
The Rev. Stanley Dawson, pastor at Allen Temple AME (Riviera Beach), closed out district conference by breathing new life into us by preaching the Gospel. The Rev. Dawson’s subject was “Christ the Anchor of Our Hope.” Rev. Dawson explained to the District that there are various kinds of earthy hope, but it’s the hope that comes from God that sustains us.
The District was blessed by the following visitors: Presiding Elder John Mainer, his wife and family, including his nephew; the Rev. Gregory Gay and First Lady LaShonda Gay, president of the South Conference Ministers Spouses Alliance, Pastor Gay and his wife are assigned to St. John AME (South Miami); the Rev. Jimmy J. Thompson, Presiding Elder of the Celebrated Central District; the Rev. Eddy Moise, pastor of Mt. Pleasant AME Church (Hollywood); and the Rev. Isaiah J. Waddy, pastor of Greater St. Peter AME, Jonesboro, Georgia.
Retired Presiding Elder Raymond G. Heastie and his wife, Doris Heastie, offered greetings and blessings to their former district. They led the North District until Presiding Elder Heastie’s retirement in 2007.
*The Rev. William E. Cooper Jr. is pastor of Macedonia AME Church in Boca Raton, Florida. His email address is bcoopermedia@gmail.com
6. A PROCLAMATION FOR THE MALES OF SAINT PETER AFRICAN METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH, MIDWAY, FLORIDA:
Whereas, the Saint Peter African Methodist Episcopal Church at Midway, Florida of the Eleventh Episcopal District (Florida and the Bahamas) of the Marianna District of the African Methodist Episcopal Church, on the Second Sunday of January, 2009; declared that day and each subsequent Second Sunday of January, be set aside and dedicated as a "Day of Prayer for the Males" of Saint Peter African Methodist Episcopal Church (Midway, Florida), throughout the surrounding counties and the world. Realizing that we are living in perilous and troubling times but we are filled with a blessed hope as we face the dawning of a new day. Many of our youth males (14-28) are displaced and disconnected from the body of Christ, and;
Whereas, in our efforts to search, rescue and recover an otherwise lost generation and our strong and driving commitment to go into the hedges and highways to reclaim our lost males, not just on behalf of the Richard Allen legacy or the Sons of Allen ministries but because we count it our bounded duty and service to follow the mandates of Scripture, and;
Whereas, we the members of this great institution in Zion are honored to serve on this Christian journey as we trod up and down the streets, seeking our children and youth males, often in harms way amid drug dealers, ex-offenders and unregistered pedophiles on our streets and in our communities, and;
Whereas, we are calling for clergy, congregations and the at-large communities to get involved in the effort to rescue at-risk males.
Therefore, I, the Reverend James R. Gibbs, Jr. pastor of the St. Peter AME Church, Midway, Florida, do hereby proclaim this Second Sunday of January, 2009 and henceforth each succeeding Second Sunday of January, to be dedicated as a "Day of Prayer for the Males of St Peter; then the Midway community; then the entire world" and encourage all members of the congregation and community to join me in recognizing this important event in our history.
And furthermore, we will honor the males of St. Peter on Saturday, April 25th at 3:00 pm. We will be graced by the Reverend Matthew Bryant, pastor of the Saint John AME Church, Quincy, Florida.
7. A HOMEGOING CELEBRATION FOR JESUS:
*The Reverend Lanxton L. Washington, M.Div
A burial service was held for Jesus.
The Reverend Wasseta Moses, pastor of Allen AME Church, 5901 Larchwood Avenue in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania had a most unusual Good Friday celebration, by celebrating the life and death of Jesus Christ.
The service began at 6:00 p.m., with a processional of clergy and family, The Reverend Moses, leading and portraying Mary, the mother of Jesus. The scriptures were read, Psalm 121, by Licentiate Yvonne Crew, Evangelist Edward Cody, 1 Corinthians 15:51-58 and the Gospel, John 14:1-6. Evangelist Diana Clark delivered the prayer of comfort and a solo by Sister Helena Perkins.
Words of Tribute were delivered by the Apostle Peter, portrayed by The Reverend Johnnie Vause, pastor of Union AME Church, who recalled how Jesus changed him from a cursing, rough individual to a true servant in Christ. He listed the miracles that he saw and his denial of Christ. Yet he realized that Christ was the true Messiah. The Reverend Lanxton Washington, pastor of Campbell AME Church, gave remarks as Blind Bartimaeus. He started his remark by saying, I once was blind but now I see and I can see clearly now. I was recalled how he knew that Jesus was the son of David and how the crowd including the disciples tried to keep him from Jesus, but he remained persistent to achieve his goal of sight and that Jesus granted it without touching him. He told the waiting congregation that he was now a follower of Jesus.
The Reverend Stephen Wallace, pastor of Sayre United Methodist Church spoke as Matthew and talked of a “New Math” after his encounter with Jesus. He explained how, he, as Matthew was amongst the lowest that there could be, but Jesus saw something in him and he started calculating life in a new way. Sister Beverly Thorpe, Christian Education Director St. Paul AME Church, Malvern portrayed the Samaritan Women and exclaimed how Jesus, even though he was Jew, would accept water from her. She also explained that Jesus knew all about her. Finally, she became an evangelist for Jesus’ ministry.
The Reverend Shota Iwasaki, pastor of Philadelphia Family Church, gave masterful portrayal of Pau/Saul, reminding us that he was not one of the first chosen, was the least of Apostles and that he had a thorn in his side. Reverend Juanita Walters, pastor of Allen AME Church, Oxford Pa, spoke as Mary Magdalene and recalled how Jesus change her life, from one of prostitution, to a true disciple of Christ. Sister Delores Bagwell, of Allen AME Church, sang a moving solo.
The Eulogist was the Reverend Keith Hayward, pastor of LaMott AME Church, portrayed Lazarus and his topic was, “Been there and done that.” He told how he was a friend of Jesus and that he was truly dead for three days, but was brought back to life for the glory of God. Bishop Jesse Edwards, of the Greater Philadelphia Church offered a prayer and gave the Invitation to discipleship.
The Celebration concluded with the singing of the “Hallelujah Chorus” under the leadership of Dr. Helen Jenkins-Early, of Allen AME Church; followed by the recessional of clergy, family and the casket of Jesus.
*The Reverend Lanxton L. Washington, M.Div., Pastor Campbell AME Church, Media, Penna.
8. LARGEST HISPANIC CHRISTIAN ORGANIZATION CALLS FOR ALL TO BE COUNTED BY THE CENSUS:
Washington, DC – Below is a statement from the National Hispanic Leadership Conference on the 2010 U.S. Census:
"The National Hispanic Christian Leadership Conference (NHCLC) and the Jesse Miranda Center for Hispanic Christian Leadership believe that Latinos, regardless of faith or legal status, should participate in the 2010 U.S. Census. For our communities, the benefits of participating in the census are essential to accurate representation, allocation of resources, and to gauge how our community continues to grow. The clear majority of Latino advocacy and faith organizations support the efforts of the U.S. Census Bureau to count each person in America in 2010, including the traditionally undercounted Hispanic population.", stated Rev. Wilfredo De Jesus, Vice President of Social Justice for the NHCLC.
As the Nation's largest Hispanic Faith Organization, the NHCLC, the sister organization of the National Association of Evangelicals and it's research arm the Jesse Miranda Center for Hispanic Christian Leadership, provide leadership , fellowship, networking, partnerships and social justice platforms for the Hispanic Evangelical community addressing a myriad of issues ranging from immigration reform to poverty alleviation.
"More than ever we need all Hispanics counted. I am convinced that the 2010 census will enable our nation to recognize the sheer potential of this ever increasing demographic and the value added reality our community will provide to the corporate American Experience", explained Dr. Jesse Miranda, NHCLC Chief Executive Officer.
9. A STATEMENT BY THE BISHOPS OF THE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH ON NEWS PRESIDENT OBAMA WILL TAKE UP IMMIGRATION REFORM IN 2009:
We join other religious leaders in thanking President Obama for placing immigration reform on his political agenda for 2009. As United Methodists we believe that immigration is a human rights issue that needs serious attention. We stand firmly in believing that the inherent value of all immigrants means that all of their civil liberties should be respected and maintained regardless of their legal status. We believe, however, that our present immigration policies violate these basic rights.
We encourage President Obama to work for comprehensive immigration reform that would…
• Provide a pathway to citizenship for immigrants;
• Reunify immigrant families that have been separated by immigration itself or due to work place raids and ensuing indefinite detentions and deportations;
• Increase the number of visas for short-term workers to come into the United States to work in a safe, legal, and orderly way.
• Extend legal protection to all workers who come to stay for a certain period of time as well as for those who stay permanently including the right to bargain for higher wages, to protest against poor working conditions, and to preserve their human rights as workers, be they documented or undocumented;
• Eliminate privately-operated detention centers, which are not regulated by the federal or state governments, and end all indiscriminate raids.
We stand ready to assist President Obama in this mighty work of comprehensive immigration reform that would truly serve the common good.
*A List of active and retired bishops names were appended to the message.
10. ANOTHER STATEMENT BY THE BISHOPS OF THE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH CONCERNING PRESIDENT OBAMA’S IMMIGRATION REFORM:
United Methodist Bishops from around the United States are applauding President Obama for the announcement of upcoming conversations around federal comprehensive immigration reform. These talks could affect some 12 million undocumented immigrants currently living in The United States.
To date twenty-eight bishops have signed a statement that reads in part, “We join other religious leaders in thanking President Obama for placing immigration reform on his political agenda for 2009. As United Methodists we believe that immigration is a human rights issue that needs serious attention.”
The statement laid out specific areas that the United Methodist Bishops would like to see focused on in comprehensive immigration reform, including:
• Provide a pathway to citizenship for immigrants;
• Reunify immigrant families that have been separated by immigration itself or due to work place raids and ensuing indefinite detentions and deportations;
• Increase the number of visas for short-term workers to come into the United States to work in a safe, legal, and orderly way.
• Extend legal protection to all workers who come to stay for a certain period of time as well as for those who stay permanently including the right to bargain for higher wages, to protest against poor working conditions, and to preserve their human rights as workers, be they documented or undocumented;
• Eliminate privately-operated detention centers, which are not regulated by the federal or state governments, and end all indiscriminate raids.
“We stand firmly in believing that the inherent value of all immigrants means that all of their civil liberties should be respected and maintained regardless of their legal status. We believe, however, that our present immigration policies violate these basic rights,” The United Methodist Bishops said in their statement. “We stand ready to assist President Obama in this mighty work of comprehensive immigration reform that would truly serve the common good”
11. CLAIMING YOUR VICTORY - WHERE WOULD WE BE WITHOUT GOD:
*The Reverend Dr. Michael C. Carson
“If it had not been the LORD who was on our side, now may Israel say... Our help is in the name of the LORD, who made heaven and earth.” Psalm 124:1,8
These are truly times of having to “tighten the belt” and being mindful of our resources. Still, it is very important to see the proverbial “glass” as “half-full” instead of, “half-empty.”
Someone shared with me, “Brother Mike, I’m about to doing my laundry and I am excited because when I wash my clothes I have so many to wash; and that’s a great blessing!”
How often do we take quality time to ponder on how we came to have what we do have in life? “Cousin-Need-More” resides at our address.
But there is another “cousin” living with us that we must embrace, especially during times such as these. And, that’s, “Cousin-What-I- Already- Have.” That cousin is a blessed friend and family member, to be sure!
This Psalm of thanksgiving is based on David’s remembrance of all God had already done for him.
Just think on the hard times God brought you through. Just think of what God has already provided for you. At this point you should take a “praise break,” thanking God for your blessings!
Songstress Yolanda Adams shares about God’s graciousness, “Not because I’ve been so faithful. Not because I’ve always obeyed… But it's because He loves me so dearly. He was there to answer my call. He was there always to protect me; for He's kept me in the midst of it all.”
Not our financial portfolios, not our connections, not our charisma, no, but only for the power and grace of God we still stand today! Think about how in the midst of it all, if God had not been with you, you would have failed.
Whatever might be plaguing you, whatever you are having to endure, and whatever you would like to have, but do not have embrace the fact that God is still keeping you; “in the midst of it all!”
The Psalmist understood, as we must, that there will be times of trial in our lives.
David was very clear to the fact of his never being without God’s protection and provision. He wrote, "Whither shall I go from thy spirit? Or whither shall I flee from thy presence? If I ascend up into heaven, thou art there: if I make my bed in hell, behold, thou art there. If I take the wings of the morning, and dwell in the uttermost parts of the sea; even there shall thy hand lead me, and thy right hand shall hold me. If I say, surely the darkness shall cover me; even the night shall be light about me." (Psalm 139:7-11)
When you talk with “Cousin-Need-More,” and, there are times when that cousin will come into your life, make sure to embrace “Cousin-What-I- Already-Have.” Then exclaim “Had it not been for the Lord on my side!”
Sister Yolanda Adams in affirming the goodness of God shares, “No He's never left me. And He's never let me fall. Oh yes He will protect you; for He's kept me in the midst of it all!”
Peace with justice, be blessed real good, attend worship this week, 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. Dr. Carson can be contacted at carsonvision@acd.net
12. CLERGY FAMILY CONGRATULATORY MESSAGES:
- The Rev C. E. Jenkins (retired Presiding Elder of the 11th Episcopal District, celebrated his 86th birthday on March 27, 2009.
Belated Birthday messages can be emailed to: neal2339@aol.com
- The Rev. Dr. and Mrs. Robert A. Strode, Pastor and First-Lady of St. John AME Church, Frankfort, KY will celebrate their 35th Wedding Anniversary, Sunday, April 19, 2009. They will highlight their celebration with family and friends by worshipping at St. Paul AME Church, Lexington, KY where they were married.
Congratulatory messages can be emailed to:
shelbygstrode@aol.com or iamabibleman@aol.com
13. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
We regret to announce the passing of the Reverend Dr. James Moody, superannuated pastor residing in Henderson, Kentucky. Dr. Moody pastored several charges in the Indiana, Chicago, and Illinois Annual Conferences, of the Fourth Episcopal District. His last charge was Bethel-Davenport, Iowa. He is the father of Dr. Denise Clark, Mr. Dwayne Moody, and Mr. James Moody. He is brother of the Rev. Mary Moody, a pastor in the 8th Episcopal District and uncle to the Reverend. James Moody, pastor of Quinn Chapel Chicago, Illinois.
At the time of his death, Reverend Moody was serving as assistant to the pastor at Alexander Chapel, Evansville.
The funeral has been held.
Condolences may be sent to:
The family of Reverend Dr. James Moody
C/o Alexander Chapel AME Church
Or to: Mason Brothers Funeral Services
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
