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 – I AM TAKING THE CHALLENGE AND I INVITE YOU TO JOIN ME:
Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III
The 20th Editor of The Christian Recorder
I am getting ready to plunge into the reading of the Bible from cover to cover, again, and I am inviting you, clergy and laity, to join me in this exciting endeavor. Zondervan Publishing is initiating a program for participants to read the Bible in 90 days beginning on June 1, 2009 and ending on August 29th. I am taking the challenge!
In the last three years, I have read the Bible from cover to cover two times. Before then, I had attempted, but had not been successful in reading straight through the Bible, from Genesis to Revelation. I suspect that there are a lot of you out there who have not done so.
Reading the Bible from cover to cover is exciting and exhilarating. I don’t know why I had not done it sooner. I had tried on numerous occasions, but “fell off of the wagon.”
My first excursion of reading the Bible from cover to cover began on May 17, 2006 and I used Zondervan’s, The Bible in 90 Days (NIV) [ISBN 13: 9780310933519]; and in 2007, I read the Bible from cover to cover in a year. Having read the Bible from cover to cover in 90 days and in 365 days; I prefer reading the whole Bible in 90 days. I enjoyed getting bigger chunks of the Bible in each sitting; it was more comprehendible for me. Reading the Bible from cover to cover also revealed that I had taken some biblical texts out of context, so reading the Bible from cover to cover was a learning experience.
The 90 day experience takes commitment and discipline. The 90 Day Bible (NIV) requires about twelve pages a day. I found it best to pick a time in the day that was best for me and, for me, that was in the morning. I made a commitment to myself that I was not going to fall behind, but if I did, I would catch up the next day. I did not fall behind. Sometimes, I read ahead if I thought the next day was going to be busy and when I got to the Pauline Letters I read ahead. I averaged about 30 – 45 minutes a day. I finished in about 82 days.
On the Zondervan Website, they have all kinds of materials and one can spend $100, but I bought the 90 day Bible for $19.99 and that’s all that I used. Zondervan also have the audio Bible in 90 days and lesson plans and Whole Church Challenge Kits and other resources. Zondervan has preaching plans and all kinds of resources.
I purchased a nice leather jacket to go on my $19.99 Bible and it has a really nice appearance.
The 90 day Bible can be purchased in religious book stores.
As I said, I am taking the plunge and I invite you to take the plunge with me. Let’s read the Bible in 90 days!
Order your Bible from the Website: http://www.biblein90days.com/index.php? Or go to your local religious book store.
We can do this! We can read the Bible from Cover to cover.
2. READER RESPONSE TO EDITORIAL AND OTHER ISSUES:
- To the Editor:
RE: Editorial – “It’s Important to Know Why We do What We do”
I enjoyed reading your editorial, "It's Important to Know Why We Do What We Do," and especially the observation concerning the AME Call to Worship. I did not grow up AME, but I was raised in a Baptist Church in East Tennessee. Since joining St. James AME Church in Memphis in the early '80s, I have learned to respect and treasure the AME worship service. When one comes to church and leaves all the mess of the world outside and steps into the sanctuary, one steps into a service that is moving and uplifting -- and it all starts with the Call to Worship -- "I was glad when they said unto me, let us go into the house of the Lord."
I agree that the AME worship is inspirational, spiritual, and life-changing, especially if we know why we do what we do. And, when the choir comes in with the first hymn that touches the right spot in the heart, it often brings me to tears -- not tears of sadness, but tears of joy with an uplifting spirit. Yes, that first hymn should be a “burst of gladness” to remind us that everything will be alright and that “weeping may endure for the night, but joy comes in the morning.” "Precious Lord" is a great hymn, but we need a song with a message, that when we're "Standing on the Promises," we have the "Blessed Assurance" to know that, "Great is Thy Faithfulness.” Why? Because "morning by morning new mercies I see!"
All throughout the worship experience there are times when the service escalates to another level and for me it is during the Decalogue when one of the older gentlemen of the church sings, "Nearer my God to Thee,” his mature voice would tremble a bit and then the pastor says, “Hear what Christ our Saviour said,” and he goes on to tell us to “love thy neighbor as thyself” -- and that's the whole story right there. Oh yes, the AME worship service is quite moving and enjoyable when one comes in with an open heart and becomes involved with the worship experience. And, as a Pastor Walter Reid says, “When it's all over, you leave better than when you came to church just because you came into the sanctuary.”
Thank you for a great article and for the teaching moment of explaining how the Call to Worship is Scripture-based and for showing us how it all fits together as part of a grand worship experience … if we just open our hearts to it.
Beverly T. Goines
St. James AME Church, Memphis
The Rev. Walter Winstead Reid Jr., Pastor
3. NOUVELLE ALLIANCE CHURCH IN LYON, FRANCE PROVISIONALLY ADMITTED TO THE AME CHURCH:
Nouvelle Alliance Church in Lyon France, was provisionally admitted to the African Methodist Episcopal Church yesterday afternoon (Thursday, April 22, 2009) during the 43rd Session of the European Annual Conference which is being held this week in London.
The European Conference unanimously voted to accept the 400 member congregation into the Conference. Co-Pastors, the Reverend Jean-Paul Basunga and the Rev. Nene' Basunga have been studying under the supervision and instruction of the Reverend Melynda Clarke, Greater Mt. Nebo AMEC, Washington Conference during April 2009. The Reverend Melynda Clarke wrote the Doctrine and AME Church History Study Guide at the request of Bishop Sarah F. Davis for the three study groups; and made provisions for the study guide to be translated into French.
The European Conference closed Sunday and Bishop Sarah and Supervisor Claytie Davis will visit the new church on Tuesday. Bishop Sarah Davis will preach for the Tuesday night worship service.
The first business session of the European Annual Conference truly ended on a high and celebratory note yesterday as Nouvelle Alliance AME Church was welcomed as a part of the European Conference.
The discussions and work with two churches in France and one in Belgium, which desired to become a part of the AME Church started in 2007 when Bishop Carolyn Tyler Guidry was the presiding prelate of the 16th District. The Reverend Dr. Jonathan Weaver of Greater Mt. Nebo AME Church has been very instrumental in assisting both, Bishop Carolyn Tyler Guidry and Bishop Sarah Davis, in this project of expansion of the African Methodist Episcopal Church in Europe.
To God be the glory for all that He continues to do!
The Right Reverend Sarah F. Davis
126th elected and consecrated Bishop of African Methodist Episcopal Church; 16th Episcopal District - Caribbean, Windward Islands, South America, Europe, (Cuba)
Jamaica Cell: 876-792-6016
Jamaica Residence: 876-702-2818
"On a Mission to Transform Minds and Change the World"
Editor’s Note: For those people who are interested in learning more about the Church in Lyon which was provisionally admitted to the European Annual Conference marking AME expansion in to France, you can visit the website here: http://mcna.fr/inghistory.html. Much of the material in the Website is in English, though the sermons are (of course) in French.
John Thomas III
Ph.D. Student
Department of Political Science
University of Chicago
jthomas3@uchicago.edu
4. BISHOP CAROLYN TYLER GUIDRY WILL BE INSTALLED AS PRESIDENT OF THE COUNCIL OF BISHOPS:
The Exciting, Exuberant, Eighth Episcopal District, of the African Methodist Episcopal Church (AMEC) to Host General Board And Council Of Bishops Meeting, in New Orleans.
The Right Reverend Carolyn Tyler Guidry is the Presiding Bishop of the Eighth Episcopal District and Mrs. Lola Nixon Cheltenham is the Episcopal Supervisor.
The meeting will take place June 23rd – 25th, 2009 and will be held at the Sheraton New Orleans Hotel, 500 Canal Street, New Orleans, Louisiana 70130, (504) 525-2500 (Reservations: Call (888) 627-7033 and mention the AME Church).
The highlight of this meeting is the Investiture Banquet, Tuesday, June 23rd at 7:00 p.m. Bishop Carolyn Tyler Guidry will be installed as President of the Council of Bishops.
Everyone is invited to attend and witness the unique festivities of the banquet, commencing with the parade of Bishops and General Officers, interweaving African heritage and a dash of New Orleans culture. Special Guests Tonea Stewart, best known for her starring role, In the Heat of the Night and Rob Jay of WLBT 3 News, will also participate in the grand celebration; “Remembering the Past, Honoring the Present, and Celebrating the Future: An Incredible Call Comes Full Circle.”
The Investiture Committee invites you to support the installation of our beloved Bishop and District on this rare occasion.
The Investiture Committee is offering package pricing, which includes: banquet tickets; vending and/or exhibitors space; advertisement in ad booklet; corporate sponsorship, as well as an opportunity to parade with the Bishops and General Officers, during banquet festivities.
For additional information on the Souvenir Journal Ad, Vending/Exhibit Application and Corporate Sponsorship contact the district office at (601) 366-8240 and speak with Celestine Palmer or the Rev. Michele Goodloe; all forms can be downloaded at www.8thdistrictamec.com.
Truly God has blessed the African Methodist Episcopal Church; the oldest black religious denomination, established in 1787, due to racism and un-Christian acts at St. George Methodist Church, Philadelphia. The Right Reverend Richard Allen was the first elected and consecrated Bishop of the African Methodist Episcopal Church.
Currently the AMEC is comprised of 20 Episcopal Districts and serve North America, South America, Europe, the Caribbean Islands, India and African continent.
5. SCOUTING REPORT TO 2009 MINISTRIES IN CHRISTIAN EDUCATION MEETING:
Nashville, Tennessee
April 16-18, 2009
The Association of African Methodist Episcopal Scouts (AAMES) submits the following report for 2008-2009:
Organizational Growth
The AAMES ministry continues growth, participation and membership.
Major focuses:
Produce marketing brochure for distribution to churches, which can boost interest and membership in AAMES. AAMES needs funding to support our efforts to help promote AAMES and build scouting units in our churches with programming that will keep our units growing and support Joyce Charles – Girl Scout Scholarship Fund and Charles Cleveland Boy Scout Scholarship Fund
Girl Scouts – Summary
40 AME Girl Scout Cadettes, Seniors and Ambassadors from St. Mark Milwaukee, Wisconsin and DuPage AME, Lisle, Illinois will travel to Washington D.C. July 31-August 4, 2009 an will visit Georgetown University, Howard University, The White House and Collaborative Events with DC Girl Scouts
Two AAMES members attended the National Convention in Indianapolis, Indiana; those members were Anita Debarlaben and Diane Robinson.
Boy Scouts – Summary
Four AAMES Boy Scout Leaders attended the National Annual Meeting of the Boy Scouts of America in San Diego, Ca. The persons representing the AAMES were Dr. Daryl Ingram, Anthony Franklin Sr, Clarence Crayton Jr., and the Rev Arties Phillips.
The National Council will request of Dr. Ingram and the AAMES Boy Scouts Executive board to allow AME Scouts to attend the National Jamboree that will be held at AP Hill in 2010. The President of the United States is scheduled to attend the Jamboree.
AAMES Scouts from these Districts attended the Inauguration event Jan 20th 2009 of President Obama in Washington DC. The districts representations of AME Scout Families were 2nd, 4th, 5th & 6th, respectively.
AME Ebenezer AME, Fort Washington, Maryland, Troop 487 had twenty Scouts conducting service at the Presidential Inauguration. Our AME Scouts helped hand out the 250,000 flags that Americans and the rest of the world on television. 2nd Episcopal area AME Churches also helped in housing AME Scouts during the inauguration.
The Peabody Energy company hosted AME scouts at their Washington DC office located on the parade on Pennsylvania Ave. The Company’s management conducted a career showcase to our scouts.
AAMES Boy scouts have established a working relationship with the Sons of Allen.
St. John African Methodist Episcopal Church, St. Louis - Darryl Franklin awarded Silver Beaver Award.
St. Mark AME, Milwaukee - Mr. Napoleon White awarded Council's Whitney Young scouting award.
Scout Montrell E. Williams earned the rank of Eagle Scout.
DuPage AME Church - Scout Ronald Lacy will earn his Eagle Scout on May 11, 2009.
Bishop William P. DeVeaux, the 6th District presiding prelate will hold workshops in the six Annual Conferences in Georgia. The 6th Episcopal District has sixteen (16) registered units in thirteen (13) churches in Georgia.
Anthony Franklin Sr.
Connectional Director – AAMES Boy Scouts
Cora Lee Palmer
Connectional Director - AAMES Girl Scouts
6. DR. DENNIS DICKERSON’S ARTICLE TO BE PUBLISHED IN NEW UNITED METHODIST CHURCH PUBLICATION, THE METHODIST REVIEW:
Methodist Review: A Journal of Wesleyan and Methodist Studies, a new open access, peer-reviewed electronic academic journal, begins publication and the Rev. Dr. Dennis Dickerson, AME Church Historiographer and Editor of The A.M.E. Church Review will be one of the contributors.
The board of directors and the sponsors of The Methodist Review, Inc., are pleased to announce the launch of Methodist Review: A Journal of Wesleyan and Methodist Studies. As an open access, peer-reviewed electronic academic journal, Methodist Review (MR) publishes scholarly articles in all areas and eras of Wesleyan and Methodist studies, including biblical, theological, ethical, philosophical, practical, historical, biographical, and social-scientific topics and methodologies. The journal’s URL is: www.methodistreview.org.
Methodist Review is sponsored by Candler School of Theology, Emory University; Perkins School of Theology, Southern Methodist University; the Association of United Methodist Theological Schools (AUMTS); and the General Board of Higher Education and Ministry of The United Methodist Church (GBHEM). The corporate office of The Methodist Review, Inc. is located at GBHEM in Nashville; the MR editorial office is located at Candler School of Theology in Atlanta. Technical support is provided by the Digital Systems division of the Emory University Libraries, where MR is hosted.
Methodist Review is partly a successor to and partly a transformation of Quarterly Review: A Journal of Theological Resources for Ministry (QR), which was published jointly by GBHEM and The United Methodist Publishing House from 1980 to 2005. Russell E. Richey (Candler) and Ted A. Campbell (Perkins) serve as the general editors of MR; Rex D. Matthews (Candler) is the managing editor; and Valerie J. Loner (Candler) is the current editorial assistant.
Although its entirely digital format and blind peer-review policy are new, said Richey, MR seeks to continue a rich intellectual tradition that dates back far beyond QR, its immediate predecessor, to the establishment in 1818 of the Methodist Magazine, a North American Methodist effort to emulate John Wesley’s own Arminian Magazine which began publication in 1778.
Campbell observed that the rigorous peer-review procedure used will help to ensure the academic credibility and quality of Methodist Review. To that end, MR has assembled a large editorial board of highly qualified senior scholars, including non-U.S. Methodist/Wesleyan scholars, all of whom serve on a voluntary basis, reviewing and evaluating articles submitted for publication in MR and advising the editors about their suitability for publication in the journal.
Listings of the members of the Methodist Review board of directors, editorial board, and advisory board are available on the journal’s web site, www.methodistreview.org, along with “An Editorial Welcome to Methodist Review” giving more details about the journal. For further information, contact Rex D. Matthews at (404) 727-6345 or at rex.matthews@emory.edu. .
7. LADY TRAMAINE HAWKINS AND DR. UZEE BROWN WILL SERVE AS CONSULTANTS FOR EIGHTH EPISCOPAL DISTRICT AND JACKSON STATE UNIVERSITY:
Jackson, MS - The Annual Church Music Workshop of America is celebrating its 33rd year with nationally acclaimed musical consultants. The workshop is scheduled for Monday through Thursday, June 15-18, 2009 in the F. D. Hall Music Center on the JSU campus. Focusing on the theme, Music and Worship, “A Celebration of Life,” the workshop features a variety of seminars relating to various aspects of worship service music. The workshop is sponsored by Jackson State University and the Eighth Episcopal District of the AME Church. The keynote speaker will be Bishop Carolyn Tyler Guidry, presiding prelate of the Eighth Episcopal District, who will speak at 1:30 p.m. on Monday, June 15th during the workshop’s Opening General Assembly.
Well known for its unique instructional methods, the workshop draws church musicians from throughout the nation. Church Music Workshop director and JSU music department chairman Dr. Jimmie James, Jr. said the program seeks to improve church music locally, nationally, and internationally.
The seminars, designed to provide practical and helpful experiences for the church musician, include: “The Return of Stolen Music,” “Introduction to Spontaneous Praise Music,” “Worship in the Key of David,” “Pro Tools for the Church Musician,” “Creative Power-The Sound of Heaven and Earth,” “Hymns of the African American Church, “ “Church Choir Decorum” and many others.
Recent workshops have included the latest technology and have given guidance to the technological applications that prepare participants for the new century, explained James, who serves as Connectional Director of Music Emeritus for the AME Church and Minister of Music at Pearl Street AME Church in Jackson. In November, 2007, James completed a four-year term as Chairman of Region 8 of the National Association of Schools of Music. As Chairman, he represented the states of Mississippi, Alabama, Kentucky, and Tennessee on the NASM Board of Directors. James was honored by Hampton University’s Ministers Conference as a “Living Legend in Church Music” in 2007.
Lady Tramaine Hawkins will serve as gospel artist for the workshop. When the words “icon” and ”gospel” come together in a sentence, there are only a few people who fit the bill; Tramaine Hawkins is certainly one of those persons. Forever part of the history of gospel music, her vocal performance on songs like Changed, Goin’ Up Yonder and He’s That Kind of Friend not only are classics, but have brought many a Christian through a dark day. Tramaine Hawkins proves after 40 years in the industry that she “still got it.”
Songs like, That Kind of Friend, What Shall I Do, Trust and Obey, Fall Down, Highway, and countless others songs have made her one of the most popular and celebrated artists in the genre..
Dr. Uzee Brown, Jr., a native of Cowpens, South Carolina, is chair of the Department of Music at Morehouse College. For twelve years he was director of the historic Ebenezer Baptist Church Choir. He has enjoyed a diverse career in music, and the combination of his professional activities as singer/performer, composer/arranger, educator and choir director has taken him to more than sixteen countries, including Italy, Germany, France, Switzerland, Poland, Russia, Luxembourg, Spain, five countries of Africa and the Caribbean. As Director of the Ebenezer Baptist Church Choir, he led the choir in concert tours of Germany, Switzerland and France in June 2002 and Italy in June 2004.
Dr. Brown holds degrees from Morehouse College, Bowling Green State University and the University of Michigan. He is past president of the National Association of Negro Musicians. During his presidency he spearheaded the completion of the first official publication of a Documentary History of the National Association of Negro Musicians by the Center for Black Music Research in Chicago, Ill. Additionally, he initiated and successfully completed a NANM $100,000 Endowed Scholarship Fund for competitive, aspiring young African American performers. Dr. Brown is a respected educator and lecturer on African American Music. He studied composition with T. J. Anderson and Wendell P. Whalum. For more than thirty years he has been immersed in researching and preserving the Negro spirituals. His CD, Great Day, released in 2006, is a compilation of Brown’s solo spiritual arrangements. It includes some rare and seldom heard spiritual melodies, and spirituals of which there no known previous arrangements as solo works.
There will be sessions for musicians, ministers, adult choir members, youth choir members and children.
Serving as presenters during the four-day workshop will be Phyllis Lewis-Hale, soprano, as Assistant Professor of Music and Opera Workshop Director at Jackson State University. Florine Herron, Director of Music for the Eighth Episcopal District of the A.M.E. Church; Lannie Spann McBride, is a noted Elementary Music Specialist and Jackson State University Lecturer who will direct the children’s workshop. James M. Hawkins , director of the award winning Jim Hill High School Choir; Cynthia Palmer, gospel artist; and Fennoyee Thomas, Associate Dean of Texas Southern University, and Andrew Lewis, a JSU graduate assistant and technology expert. Dr. Herbert Jones of Pittsburgh, PA will lecture of Hymns of the African American Church.
The closing workshop concert will be held on Thursday, June 18, 2009 at 7:00 p.m. The concert will feature Tramaine Hawkins and the workshop adult and children’s choirs and other artists. The early registration fee for the workshop is $75 per person before May 29th and $85 after May 29, which includes all music and materials. A reduced rate will be given for multiple registrations from a single church. The rate for ten or more from one church is $55 per person and five or more from one church will be $65 per person. The Children’s rate is $25 per child. The children’s registration fee is $25, which includes a workshop tee-shirt. Concert tickets in advance will be $5 in advance and $10 the day of the concert. Academic credit and CEU credit are available for graduate and undergraduate students. Final registration will be held on Monday, June 16, 2007 at 8:00 a.m. in the F. D. Hall Music Center. After June 1, the registration fee will be $125.
The Regency Hotel is the official hotel for the workshop. It is located in down town Jackson. The phone number is 601/969-2141. The FAX number is 601/355-1704. The email address is ruby@regencyjackson.com.
The Regency Hotel is a full-service hotel. The rate is $69.00 plus tax. Reservations should be made before June 7, 2009.
On-campus housing is available in the beautiful new Campbell College Suites at a rate of $25.00 per person per night if you provide your own linen. The rate is $32.00 per person per night if the University provides the linen.
To view the housing website, please visit www.jsums.edu/housing.
Contact the Department of Music to reserve accommodations on campus.
For more information, call Dr. Jimmie James Jr., Workshop Director and JSU Music Department chairman at (601) 979-2141.
You may also reach Dr. James by email at: jimmie.james@jsums.edu.
Additional information is available by visiting www.jsums.edu/cmu.
8. THE ST PAUL AFRICAN METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH FAMILY IN JACKSONVILLE, FLORIDA SALUTES BROTHER WILLIAM STOCKTON SURCEY – TUSKEGEE AIRMAN:
By Angela Surcey Garner
St. Paul AME Church in Jacksonville, Florida and the Reverend Dr. Marvin C. Zanders, II, pastor salutes Brother William Stockton Surcey, Tuskegee Airman who received the National Congressional Gold Medal of Honor.
Brother William Stockton Surcey (left) was honored on Tuesday, April 21, 2009 at City Hall in Jacksonville, Florida, for his accomplishments as an airplane mechanic for the Tuskegee Airmen over 60 years ago. Major Trent Johnson, leader of the Andrew Jackson High School ROTC Unit, presented Master Sergeant William Surcey with the Congressional Gold Medal of Honor (right); the highest civilian award presented by Congress.
In 2006, when the Tuskegee Airmen were honored in Washington, D.C., Brother Surcey was unable to attend because of his wife’s illness during that time. God has blessed her recovery and Sister Future Surcey was present at his ceremony; one made possible through the efforts of Ms. Brenda White, a nurse who has done much research on the history of the Tuskegee Airmen.
Many family members, to include his daughters, Renee and Katherine Surcey, the brothers of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc., of which Brother Surcey is a proud member, his Pastor, The Reverend Dr. Marvin C. Zanders, II, church family, and many friends were present to share the celebration. His late brother, Lieutenant Wayman Philip Surcey, served as a bomber pilot for the Tuskegee Airmen, and was also a lifetime member of St. Paul A.M.E. Church Jacksonville; he died in 1995. No doubt the church prayed for both of them as they served their country encouraging young black soldiers all over the world. Ms. White is attempting to acquire a medal to present to his widow in future months.
The Andrew Jackson High School ROTC Unit (left) presented the colors. This group included our own, Sister Jasmine Christopher who is the current Miss ROTC. There was a short photo session directly after Brother Surcey received the gold medal and many photo sessions, interviews, congratulations from everyone, and autograph signings after the ceremony ended. Musically, we opened with “The Star Spangled Banner” and ended with “God Bless the USA.” Pastor Zanders gave the Benediction and offered the blessing of the food.
We salute Brother William Stockton Surcey for his receipt of the National Congressional Gold Medal of Honor for The Tuskegee Airmen.
9. THE UNIVERSITY OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA CENTER FOR RELIGION AND CIVIC CULTURE:
The University of Southern California Center for Religion and Civic Culture is pleased to invites you to attend the 2009 Passing The Mantle (PTM) Institute Program. Below for your review is a summary of the program particulars. Congratulations on your nomination!
The Rev. Mark Whitlock is the Director of Community Initiatives.
The Passing the Mantle Clergy and Lay Leadership Institute is committed to training church leaders to change governmental policies and the neighborhood ethos within Southern California. The economic and social problems facing communities of color are complex and deeply rooted in racism, apathetic governmental representation, and a lack of understanding of the political process by clergy and lay leaders.
Faith-based civic engagement professionals must address issues related to gang violence, prison reform, government policies, health, criminal justice, and social services. This more complex environment demands that clergy and lay leaders develop new approaches, greater expertise, and improved institutional operations. The Passing the Mantle Clergy and Lay Leadership Institute (PTM) addresses these challenges through a learning program for enhancing leadership and building the institutions needed to tackle emerging civic issues.
PTM is designed to equip pastors, clergy, faith based non-profit leaders, and church board members for better mission conceptualization, civic engagement models, strategic planning, and partnership building with the public and private sector. The course creates a learning environment with leading practitioners, politicians, and professors who are engaged in areas related to civic engagement and community development.
PTM Students are expected to participate in all classes and field trips, and to submit course assignments on time.
PTM graduates are required to implement or participate in a civic engagement community initiative.
PTM is three phase program:
• Phase I – Understanding Civic Engagement
• Phase II – Methods of Implementing a Civic Engagement Project
• Phase III – Implementation and Mentoring
Phase I is a two day non-residential program with classes July 9 and 10, 2009.
Phase II is a fulltime residential program, with classes from August 2 to 7, 2009. Because the workload is so demanding, participants cannot be accompanied by their families. Participants must remain free of outside responsibilities and distractions.
Phase III is a three month program designed to help students implement a civic engagement program. The PTM staff will assist students as they implement a civic engagement project. PTM will host a graduation ceremony on November 14, 2009.
The program is limited to 30 participants. PTM is open to pastors, lay leaders, and community development professionals. Clergy and lay leaders who are engaged in civic programs, community development or other related projects will be given special consideration. The total tuition cost of the program is $4,000.00. The student portion of the program’s cost is $750.00 which is made possible with funding from The James Irvine Foundation.
Program cost includes accommodations, materials, food, and fellowship with other church leaders.
10. JORDAN DOWNS SPRING HEALTH FAIR HELD SATURDAY, APRIL 4, 2009:
God’s blessings flowed among and all of the participants received God’s blessings on Saturday, April 4, 2009 in the Jordan Downs Housing Projects in Watts, California.
The Rev. Leslie R. White, Pastor of Grant AME Church in Watts had a vision that he shared with the Rev. Rosalynn Brookins, an Associate Minister, that there would be a Ministry in Jordan Downs.
The Rev. Rosalyn Brookins brought that vision to a reality by starting Empowerment Classes (Bible Study) on January 21, 2009 and Empowerment Program (Church Sunday School and Preaching) on Sunday, January 25, 2009. The Jordan Downs Spring Health Fair vision came into being in collaboration with Los Angeles City Mayor, the Honorable Antonio Villaraigosa, Jordan Downs Community Advisory Committee; Beloved Ministries, Grant AME Church; Jordan Downs Block Captains; Harvest International Light of the World Community Church; Parolees for Change, Watts Gang Taskforce; World Vision, LAPD; Housing Authority of the City of Los Angeles; and Janice Hahn Council District 15, The Jordan Downs Spring Health Fair came into being.
The event was held on Saturday, April 4, 2009 from 10:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m., where over 500 families were serviced in the Jordan Downs Housing Community by, not only providing them with fresh vegetables, toiletries, and drinks (Snapple’s, G2); but with services such as immunizations for the children, blood pressure screening, blood glucose screening, mammograms, and hair cuts. It speaks volumes when Young Black Barbers would donate time on a Saturday, their busiest day, to provide free haircuts to boys and men of all ethnic backgrounds.
There were many vendors such as, the Lupus Foundation; Great Beginning for Black Babies; Charles Drew Medical Center; Watts Latino Organization, WIC, HIV, AIDS; Clean and Green, Women of Essence; CHAMPS (Insurance); and First Five Ready for School, who also came out in support of the event.
We were graced by the presence of Retired Bishop, the Right Rev. Hamel Hartford Brookins who supported of both event and his wife, the Rev. Rosalynn Brookins, the Coordinator of Beloved Ministries.
For years, this area of Watts has had the highest crime rate, unemployment, and gang activities known as the “Notorious Grape Street Crips”; yet on this day, the same day that Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., was killed, African American and Latinos came together on one common thread known as, “Peace.”
During the health fair, we could see the reality of Dr. King’s dream manifest. The laughter of little Black children and Latino children rang out as they rode on the trackless train, jumping in the jumpers, and played in the sand together.
We are now gearing up for our Back to School Fair! We are “Praying” for continued peace in the Jordan Downs Housing Projects and Beloved Ministries.
Submitted by Lessie Thompson
11. THE 2009 ANNUAL CONFERENCE REPORT OF CHAPLAIN DAVID R. BROWN, U. S. NAVY CHAPLAIN CORPS:
The Virginia Annual Conference, April 28-May 2, 2009
Chesapeake Conference Center, Chesapeake, Virginia
To Bishop Adam Jefferson Richardson, Episcopal Supervisor Connie Richardson, and to the members of the Virginia Annual Conference:
I am pleased to offer this 16th pastoral report to the Virginia Annual Conference as an itinerant elder serving the United States Navy Chaplain Corps. First and foremost, I thank God for this opportunity to stand and deliver this report for my presence is proof of his grace and mercy over my life. Second, I would also like to thank God for the undying love and support that I receive from my wife and two children, who could not be present with me today but are always in my heart and on my mind.
Present Duty: Navy Recruiting Command
My present duty responsibilities are with Navy Recruiting Command in Millington, TN. I am one of six chaplain program officers and I supervise a host of local recruiters in eight states in the southeast and Puerto Rico. Regarding chaplain programs, my recruiters have one purpose: to attract and access the best pastors and seminary students in America to the Navy Chaplain Corps. They accomplish this through inviting me to church conferences and seminaries to make recruiting presentations. One other responsibility that I have as a program officer is to conduct an appraisal interview of each applicant and submit that appraisal to the Office of Chief of Navy Chaplains in Washington, D.C. Also, I make verbal recommendations to the Chaplain Accessions, Retention and Eligibility (CARE) Board, which selects all future chaplains and chaplain candidates.
Production Report
Praise God for a great year in recruiting! The national goal this year for accessing active duty chaplains is 50, split six ways among my colleagues (that’s 8-9 chaplains a piece). Thus far, I have already met that goal and I am on track to access 25 chaplains by July, which is half of the national goal. Again, I praise God for such a bountiful year in recruiting.
Financial Compensation
• The Navy provides all qualified and selected ministers with full medical and dental coverage.
Women In Ministry: Immediate Opportunity to Be “Lead Pastor”
• In the Navy Chaplain Corps, such opportunities are granted immediately. Women are treated equally.
Seminary Students
• Can serve as chaplain candidates where they do the work of ministry and are financially compensated.
In closing, I would like to mention that on August 1st, I will be promoted to the rank of Commander, which will make me a senior officer in the Navy.
Chaplain David R. Brown, Commander (Select), U.S. Navy, Chaplain Corps, Itinerant Elder, the Virginia Annual Conference
12. WHAT A TIME, WHAT A TIME IN KANSAS CITY:
Kansas City South District Conference of the Midwest Conference was held at Christ Our Redeemer AME Church in Kansas City Missouri on April 2-4, 2009. The Rev. Shirley D. Heermance is the pastor of Christ Our Redeemer AME Church. The Rev. Donna F. Roberson is the presiding elder of the Kansas City South District.
District Conference Highlights
What a time we had at the Kansas City South District Conference of the Midwest Conference! We want to share with our brothers and sisters our progress.
Opening was Thursday Night, the Rev. Steven A. Cousin presiding elder of the Kansas City District preached a dynamic message entitled, The Good Shepherd. His scriptural text was the Gospel of John 10:1 - 5. He explained that everybody is not at the same level; the shepherd must protect the flock; and provide for the flock.
The music was rendered by the True Praise Community Choir under the direction of Ms. Michelle R. Casey.
District Stewards gave their reports.
The Presiding Elder took the District Stewards to lunch at Peach Tree, a soul food restaurant in Kansas City, Missouri. The District Stewards shared experiences and broke bread together, while the other District Conference members feasted on the delicious meal the host church provided.
Preaching Sessions
The Rev. Clifton Stancil preached the Hour of Power on Friday.
The Rev. Damon Thornhill preached the Friday night service.
The Rev. Julie Boyd Whitney preached the Hour of Power on Saturday.
The Board presented the following persons to the District Conference: Regina Conway, Orlando Joiner, Bridgett Mitchell, Christina Stancil, Brian Bridgeforth, Stephanie Dorsey and Annie Mayberry, the Rev. BarBara Harper and Vernon Winfrey.
Each person was given a topic to preach on for three minutes. The topics included: Conway (grandmother raising children), Joiner (joining another denomination), Mitchell (woman struggling with calling), Mayberry (how to do a sickroom visit), and Winfrey (young preacher who lost his job).
Presiding Roberson said ministers going into a sickroom should wash hands before visiting with a patient. Also, the pastoral visit should not be longer than ten minutes. She stated that many ministers want to avoid ministry in rural areas and she felt that was a serious mistake because a minister can learn how to pastor in rural areas. The Presiding Elder continued to share her pastoral experiences and about her ministry in the churches she’s served.
Presiding Elder Roberson highlighted some of the reports. Special emphasis was made when the Presiding Elder changed the quarterly schedule to be in worship with the churches, and it has been an enlightening experience. She feels legislation in supporting preachers financially being sent to small churches ought to be created.
Evangelism and Church Growth workshops were conducted by the Rev. Carmi Woods and the Rev. Spencer Barrett.
Organizational Reports and Updates were given by the Midwest Conference Branch Lay Organization, the Midwest Conference Branch WMS, and the Midwest YPD & Sons of Success/DOD, the Economic Development Fund and the Women In Ministry.
Friday night the youth were in charge of the service. Much talent was exhibited. Presiding Elder Roberson gave half of the funds raised Friday night to the youth department.
The Rev. Eraina Marie Aseme, Secretary
Kansas City South District
13. YPD’ER MARISSA BROWN SHARES REWARDING EXPERIENCE WITH CHURCH AND COMMUNITY:
The journey of Brown, as a 2009 student Page for the Florida State Senate, traveled to the hills of the Florida State Capitol in Tallahassee, Florida recently and felt compelled to share her experience and knowledge with her peers and others.
According to Brown she expressed that her experience was a remarkable and rewarding experience. It has given Brown a global outlook and a mission in recruiting other youth and adults in being empowered to make a commitment of the awareness of how important it is to take an active part in the legislative process of government and being supportive of bills and laws.”
Brown tells of her first day at the capitol for service, was filled with excitement. She relates that; “Upon entering the Florida State Senate Building there was other student Pages totaling 20 students from across the State of Florida, I was excited about the first day of hands on experience in greeting the Governor of Florida Charlie Crist and Senator Chris Smith (District 29) comprising Broward and Palm Beach Counties and other senators from Florida.
She expressed that “student pages were neatly and professionally dressed, everyone in navy blue blazers, dressed black shoes and the ensemble and name identification tag of the Florida State Senate memoir on the left side of our blazers, professional student pages began their day of services in the Senate.”
Program Coordinator, Minnie Bush Bradshaw greeted everyone in a warm and nurturing manner as they greeted and introduced themselves to one another. The daily training sessions were intense in learning about the State Government, terminology of laws, how bills are implemented and Senate Pages had the opportunity to participate in a “mock session” where they role played as senators discussing, debating and voting on legislation.
Messages and information was delivered to Senators in preparation for their committee meetings by the Pages. “However, I was honored to have been selected as the Chaplain for the mock session and delivered the opening prayer for the session”.
Her new vision, after attending the student Page Program is to further encourage and motivate other youth of their civic responsibility and commitment of community service and taking an active part in legislative procedures and being productive citizens.
Brown has been accepted to Florida A&M University, Tallahassee, Florida in the fall 2009 and plans to pursue a major in Biology and a minor in Environmental Science. She is an active member of Mount Hermon African Methodist Episcopal Church where the Reverend Michael K. Bouie is the pastor. She serves in the young adult choir, Communications and Greeters ministry.
She is a 2009 candidate for the Broward Elected Black Officials scholarship to be announced on May 3, 2009 in South Florida.
14. THE 11TH EPISCOPAL DISTRICT 2009 ANNUAL CONFERENCE SCHEDULE:
The Right Reverend McKinley Young, Presiding Prelate
Dr. Dorothy Young, Episcopal Supervisor
The Florida Conference
August 15-21, 2009
St. Hebron AME Church
1730 South Hebron Road
Quincy, FL 32352
Telephone: (850) 875-9409
The Rev. Clifton Riley, Host Pastor
The Rev. Mary Robinson, Host Presiding Elder
Bethel AME Church – Tallahassee (Host Site)
501 W. Orange Ave.
Tallahassee, FL 32310
Telephone: (850) 576-7501
The Rev. Dr. Julius H. McAllister, Jr. (Host-Site Pastor)
The Central Conference
August 29-Sept. 4, 2009
New Bethel AME Church
4201 W. Columbia St.
Orlando, FL 32811
Telephone: (407) 295-6152
The Rev. Henry Postell, Host Pastor
The Rev. Hartford Lee, Host Presiding Elder
St. Mark AME Church-Orlando (Host Site)
1960 Bruton Blvd
Orlando, FL 32805
Telephone: (407) 422-6941
The Rev. Terence R. Gray, (Host- Site Pastor)
The South Conference
September 19-25, 2009
St. Paul AME Church
1892 NW 51st Terrace
Miami, FL 33142
Telephone: (305) 634-3720
The Rev. Robert Jackson, Host Pastor
The Rev. John L. Bodison, Host Presiding Elder
The West Coast Conference
October 3-9, 2009
Bethel AME Church
912 3rd Ave N
St. Petersburg, FL 33701
Telephone: (727) 822-2089
The Rev. David Connelly, Host Pastor
The Rev. Jerome L. Denmark, Host Presiding Elder
The East Conference
October 17-23, 2009
St. Stephen AME Church
913 W 5th Street
Jacksonville, FL 32209
Telephone: (904) 358-2399
The Rev. Michael L. Mitchell, Host Pastor
The Rev. Jimmy B. Keel, Host Presiding Elder
The Bahamas Conference
November 3-8, 2009
Cousin McPhee AME Church
Nassau, Bahamas
The Rev. Dr. Ranford Patterson, Host Pastor
The Rev. Howard Williamson, Host Presiding Elder
The Post Conference Planning Meeting
November 19-22, 2009
Our Lucaya Resort
Westin and Sheraton Hotels
1 Royal Palm Way
Freeport, Grand Bahama Island
Telephone: (242) 350-5501
The Rev. Dr. Ranford Patterson, Host Presiding Elder
The Rev. Howard Williamson, Host Presiding Elder
The Rev. Clifford McKinney, Host Pastor
15. CLERGY FAMILY CONGRATULATORY MESSAGES:
- Dr. F. Douglas Powe, Jr., Ph.D., was awarded tenure and promoted to Associate Professor at Saint Paul School of Theology in Kansas City, Missouri. Dr. Powe is the first African American male to receive this distinction at Saint Paul. He is also only the second African American in the SPST's history to receive this distinction.
The Rev. Sherri E. Wood-Powe, pastor of Saint Paul AME Church in Olathe, Kansas, extends congratulations to her husband.
Congratulatory responses can be emailed to: swoodpowe@yahoo.com
- The Reverend Doctor Jones Hooded at Big Bethel: On Wednesday, April 22, 2009, the Reverend Monica C. Jones, who recently earned a PhD in adult education and leadership, was hooded during a ceremony and dedicatory service held at Big Bethel AMEC in Atlanta. The Reverend Dr. Carolyn McCrary and Dean Daniel Jacobs (faculty member and former president of Turner Seminary respectively) performed the hooding ceremony.
Retired Bishop Frank C. Cummings served as celebrant for the Communion Service, and the Reverend Gregory V. Eason, senior pastor of Big Bethel, served as worship leader. The Reverend Velma Grant, 6th District President, Women in Ministry was among those who brought greetings. Jones completed her doctoral studies at Walden University, where she researched the influence of spirituality on self-esteem among adult female learners.
Congratulatory responses can be emailed to: mcjaka@yahoo.com
- Congratulations, to the Rev. Nathan A. Dixon, pastor of Trinity AME Church, Lansing, MI! Pastor Nathan will receive his Doctor of Ministry degree from The Samuel DeWitt Proctor School of Theology – Virginia Union University, Richmond, Virginia on Saturday, May 9, 2009. Pastor Nathan’s dissertation title: Hip-Hop and the Black Church: Healing a Generational Divide, Towards a Theological “Collabo.”
Congrats can be offered at: trinityamec@comcast.net or by mail: Trinity AME Church, 3500 West Holmes Road, Lansing, MI 48911.
- Terrance Linel Green will receive the degree of Master of Education in Educational Leadership from the University of Kentucky (Louisville); he will attend the University of Wisconsin (Madison) to complete a PhD in Educational Leadership and Policy Analyses. Terrance is the author of “Becoming an All ‘A’ Student: The QUICK and EASY guide to getting a ‘4.0’”
- Oscar Green, III will receive the degree of Bachelor of Arts in Health Studies (Emergency Medical Technician) from Michigan State University (Lansing); he will attend Garrett Evangelical Theological Seminary (Evanston, IL) to complete a Master of Divinity Degree.
Congratulatory responses can be emailed to: notablenorth@comcast.net
- Christopher L. Mayes, the seventeen-year-old son of the Rev. Keith R. Mayes, Sr. and Mrs. Gilda L. Mayes, pastor and first lady of Allen Chapel AME Church in Murfreesboro, TN, earned the opportunity to travel to Anaheim, California, April 28 through May 3, 2009 to the DECA International Career Development Conference where he will compete against other students from across the United States and five other countries in various role-play and written event competitions. DECA, an International Association, focuses on leadership development, civic consciousness, vocational understanding and social development. Christopher was the only, eleventh grader at the Riverdale High School in Murfreesboro to win on the state level and to qualify for the nationals. Christopher is an honor student and a standout on the nationally ranked Riverdale Warrior football team. Recruiters from several universities are seeking him as a defensive lineman. Vanderbilt University is his choice, so far. He plans to pursue a career in Veterinary Medicine.
Congratulatory responses can be emailed to Rev. and Mrs. Keith R. Mayes, Sr. revkrm2@comcast.net
16. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
We regret to share news of the passing of Anthony J. Clarington, brother of Reverend Vivian Clarington pastor of Allen Chapel AME Church, Detroit Michigan.
Visitation: Thursday, April 30, 2009 from 1:00 P.M. - 8:00 P.M.
Gates of Heaven Funeral Home
Livernois at Michigan Avenue
Detroit, Michigan
Services will be held at:
St. Matthew AME Church
9746 Petoskey
Detroit Michigan 48204
Reverend Gloria Clark, Pastor
Friday, May 1, 2009
Family Hour: 5:00 P.M.
Homegoing Services: 6:00 P.M.
Condolences can be sent to:
Reverend Vivian Clarington
19209 Bretton Dr.
Detroit Michigan 48207
vivpreachergirl@yahoo.com
Bishop John R. Bryant, Presiding Prelate & Senior Bishop
Submitted from the office of:
Reverend Dr. H. Michael Lemmons, Presiding Elder
Fourth Episcopal District, Michigan Annual Conference North District
17. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
We regret to inform you of the passing of Brother Joe L. Frey, the oldest brother of the Reverend Nathan Frey, Pastor of Woodfork Chapel AME Church, Shelbyville, TN, who passed on April 25, 2009.
The funeral has been held.
Condolences can be sent to:
Pastor, Reverend Nathan Frey (brother)
735 North 9th Street
Nashville, TN 37206-3956
Home telephone: 615.227.4548
Mobile: 615.310.7845
revs37160@bellsouth.net
18. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
We regret to inform you of the passing of the Reverend Robbie Wheeler, Local Elder, member of Quinn Chapel AME Church, Louisville, Kentucky on April 23, 2009.
The funeral has been held.
Condolences can be sent to:
Sister Barbara Trammell (daughter)
783 Frederick Stamm Court
Louisville, Kentucky 40217
502-634-4447 (home)
502-472-9522 (cell)
19. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
We regret to announce the passing of Sister Evelyn Faye Ford, the sister of Presiding Elder James Willie Ford, Jr. (Tyler District-North Texas Conference). Sister Evelyn Faye Ford passed on Saturday, April 18, 2009.
The funeral has been held.
Condolences may be sent to:
Presiding Elder James W. & Mrs. Virginia A. Ford
1112 Lexington Circle
DeSoto, Texas 75115
Phone: (972) 274-2372
20. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
We announce with regret the passing of Brother Milton Forge, member of Brooks Chapel AME Church-Corpus Christie, Texas on Tuesday, April 28, 2009. Brother Forge was the son of the Rev. William T. "Papa" Vaughn, Sr., who is a retired 10th Episcopal District pastor and currently on staff at Bethel AME Church Dallas, Texas (North Texas Conference-Tyler District).
The following information has been provided regarding Visitation and Homegoing Celebration for Brother Forge:
Visitation:
Friday - May 1, 2008
5 P.M. - 8 p.m.
Brooks Chapel AME Church
2101 North Port Avenue
Corpus Christie, Texas 78401
Ph: (361) 884-2169
The Rev. Carl Gormon, Pastor
Homegoing Celebration:
Saturday - May 2, 2009
11:00 A.M.
St. Matthews Missionary Baptist Church
1101 Waco Street
Corpus Christie, Texas 78401
Ph: (361) 882-4996
The Rev. A. L. Lane, Pastor
The Rev. William T. Vaughn, Jr. - Eulogist
Brother Forge's final earthly care has been entrusted to:
Kingsville Memorial Funeral Home
2303 General Cavazos Blvd
Kingsville, Texas 78564
Ph: (361) 592-5634
Condolences may be sent to:
The Rev. William T. "Papa" Vaughn, Sr.
Mountain Creek Retirement Center
2305 Corn Valley Road, #253
Grand Prairie, Texas 75051
Phone: (972) 642-4367
21. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
We announce with regret the passing of Sister Olga Mae Rabon, a member of St. Paul AME Church-Teague, Texas; the Rev. Etta East-Anderson, Pastor. Sister Rabon passed on Tuesday, April 28, 2009.
Sister Rabon was lifelong member of the AME Church and a noted layperson of the 10th Episcopal District. She was the sister of the Rev. William T. "Papa" Vaughn, Sr., who is a retired 10th Episcopal District pastor and currently on staff at Bethel AME Church-Dallas, Texas (North Texas Conference-Tyler District).
The following information has been provided regarding Visitation and Homegoing Celebrating for Sister Rabon:
Visitation:
Saturday, May 1, 2009
3 P.M. - 5 P.M.
Sandra Clark Funeral Home
Dallas, Texas
Homegoing Celebration:
Monday, May 4, 2009
11 A.M.
Bethel AME Church
1636 Ann Arbor Avenue
Dallas, Texas 75216
Ph: (214) 375-3567
The Rev. Reginald J. Houston, Pastor
The Rev. James Willie Ford, Jr., Presiding Elder
The Rt. Rev. Gregory G.M. Ingram, Presiding Bishop
Sister Rabon's final earthly care has been entrusted to:
Sandra Clark Funeral Home
6029 R. L. Thornton Funeral Home
Dallas, Texas 75232
Ph: (314) 371-2600
Condolences may be sent to:
The Rev. William T. "Papa" Vaughn
Mountain Creek Retirement Center
2305 Corn Valley Road, #253
Grand Prairie, Texas 75051
Ph: (972) 642-4367
22. 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
23. 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
