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 –THE PRESIDENT’S SPEECH, “ONE BITE AT A TIME”:
Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III
The 20th Editor of The Christian Recorder
President Barack Obama gave his much awaited speech, entitled “A New Beginning” in Cairo, Egypt on Thursday June 4, 2009. It was much awaited because President Obama’s speech was the first public speech that an American President delivered in a predominantly Muslim Country. The speech was much awaited because the President was going to address America’s relationship with the followers of Islam.
I tuned into the speech late, and heard some of the delivery, but picked up coverage of the speech throughout the day on CNN and NBC. My first impression was that it was a great speech and I thought to myself, what a great orator we have in President Obama; Standard English, logical, coherent, articulate, thoughtful, and logical conclusions.
Immediately following the President’s speech, the news commentators appeared to affirm the President’s speech, but later in the day, I began to hear negative comments about the speech credited to Rush Limbaugh, Newt Gingrich, and other commentators. I heard such things as, to much criticism of America, too many concessions to the Muslim world, too much support for the Palestinians, and too little support for Israel.
Opps, I decided that I needed to do some research on the President’s speech and read every word of it. I tried to read it with balance and without bias. After I read it, I thought that it was one of the most balanced speeches given by a head of state that I had ever heard or read. I don’t know how anyone could criticize a speech that was so respectful of Islam, Judaism, and Christianity, yet addressed head-on the hot-button international issues facing the world. Those who criticized President Obama’s speech failed to provide any meaningful alternatives to the President’s positions. The criticisms seem to be politically motivated and mean-spirited.
President Obama does not need me to defend him, because he is more than capable of defending himself; he is intelligent, articulate and smart.
President Obama’s speech dealt with the issue of terrorism in the most balanced way, and with sensitivity, that signaled a departure from the sometime inflammatory rhetoric of the previous administration; and the current critics of the Obama administration. That departure had to be made if we are going to re-establish our credibility around the world and with Muslims. There are over a billion Muslims in the world and we cannot ignore them; and it is not in our best interest to ignore them.
Things I liked about the speech
President Obama said the he was giving the speech in Egypt because he wanted to seek a new beginning with the United States and Muslims. He was upfront about his own religious beliefs and stated forthrightly that he was a Christian. I was impressed about his openness to share that he had lived among Muslims and that he had Muslims, as well as Christians, in his family. He acknowledged the contributions of Muslims and explained that all nations are affected by the negative actions of groups who want to serve their own self-interests; and he went on to say that nations have to work together and not be imprisoned by the past.
President Obama did not sugar-coat the shortcomings of the United States and he did not avoid “calling a spade a spade” and said, “al Qaeda killed nearly 300 people” on 9/11 and he emphasized that he saw as his duty “to protect the American people.”
The President told the truth when he explained, “Unlike Afghanistan, Iraq was a war of choice that provoked strong differences in the United States and around the world.” His statement about Iraq being “a war of choice” was the truth, and Jesus said, “… the truth will set you free.”
He addressed the issues surrounding Israel, Palestine and the Arab world. He was even-handed in his belief that all three entities had responsibilities; the Palestinians had to abandoned violence, Israel had to recognize the Palestinians right to exist and needed to insure the Palestinians could live and work and develop their society; and the Arab states needed to recognize Israel’s right to exist.
The President used the beautiful symbol of the Isra and the Prophet Muhammad’s Night Journey when he visited the circles of heaven, and spoke with Abraham, Moses, and Jesus. The Prophet’s night journey may not mean much to Christians, but the President was speaking to a Muslim audience and that illustration was meaningful to them.
The President addressed democracy and rightly said, “No system of government can or should be imposed upon one nation by any other.” He brought his remarks to a close by addressing religious freedom, tolerance and women’s rights and ended his speech with quotes from the Qur’an, a Talmudic quote mentioning the Torah, and the Holy Bible.
I thought President Obama’s speech was on-target and was a great first-step in mending the relationship between the United States and Muslims around the world.
No, the speech will not solve all of the problems and perceptions that exist between the United States and Muslims. The conflict between Israel, the Palestinians and the Arab states will not be resolved tomorrow or next week, but President Obama’s speech was a first step and I believe that history will validate the importance of his speech and how he has attempted to reach out to Muslims around the world. The problems and issued he addressed in his speech are huge issues that did not surface overnight and certainly the issues will not be resolved overnight.
How does one eat an elephant? The answer is, “one bite at a time,” and that’s how President Obama and his policies with the Muslim world, issues with Israel and the Palestinians, will have to be solved; “One bite at a time.”
I don’t care what any commentator has said; President Obama’s speech will go down in history as one of most significant speeches of his presidency.
2. READER RESPONSE TO EDITORIAL AND OTHER ISSUES:
- To the Editor:
RE: The New York Times article, “Big Pulpit” sent to TCR subscribers on Sunday May 24, 2009
Thanks for sharing this - I found some of it encouraging and instructive, and some of it troubling. I commend the brother for successfully adapting a customer service "business model" to the business of the church, and I celebrate the personal struggles he overcame to succeed.
I have problems; however, with a "church" that has two ATM's but no visible Christian symbol - especially no cross. The essence of our faith is embodied in that symbolic reminder of the sacrifice that our Lord and Savior made for us, and our responsibility as followers and believers in the Lord Jesus Christ is to emulate that sacrifice through our words and our work.
Maybe I'm being hypersensitive, because I'm writing on Ascension Sunday, when the Gospel Lesson at Morris Brown included the Great Commission in Matthew 28:18-20. I don't argue with Rev. Bernard's assertion that Jesus came to give us a rich and satisfying life. Jesus did say that He came so that we might have life and have it more abundantly, but He also said that it does us no good to gain the whole world and lose our souls.
I don't have a problem with megachurches (beyond the inherent anonymity) and vigorously embrace the idea of the church embracing the resources and strategies of the present age to meet the needs of those living in the present age. I do, however, have grave concerns with any church that becomes so contemporary as to forget the prophetic admonition of Amos to let justice and righteousness flow through our work or the reminder from Jesus that our final judgment will center on our treatment of "the least of these" - religion that embraces personal well-being without responsible action to make disciples and bring change to the world is like popcorn - tasty and filling, but empty and worthless when it comes to true nutrition.
The Rev. Dr. Joseph Darby, pastor
Morris Brown AME Church
Charleston, South Carolina
- To the Editor:
RE: Editorial – Allow Me to Propose this Idea, One More Time
You have raised a very valid concern about training. Yes, it should be consistent throughout the connection, because we are connectional. I wish you well on the effort, but the euthanized horse did not survive the beating. The folk graduating from seminary are not necessarily at fault, they move by example or the lack thereof. The lack of consistent training or non existent is ongoing. It's the folk who are in the pulpit that have been there for the past 1-50 years that are at issue. In other words, "old dogs and new tricks" teaching must occur also. Plus, some folk have had good and bad examples to emulate along the way in our Zion from the episcopacy to the pulpit, so how does that change?
Don't intend to sound too negative because there are good examples in our Zion who know better than to stray too far away, but also know that "change" as well as preparation is necessary. Some people feel the need to "prove" themselves when they try too much change or what they want to do too fast. It can be detrimental to both the pulpit and the pew. It's the listening mechanism that gets clogged or misdirected many times.
If you believe someone is listening to you, keep trying.
(Name withheld by request)
3. THE 2009 PENTECOST EXPLOSION IN BIRMINGHAM, ALABAMA:
Jerry Turner
They came from all areas in the State of Alabama in a sea of red, gathered at the Birmingham Jefferson Convention Center. As I walked in the convention I could feel the spirit of unity among the members of the 9th Episcopal District. People were smiling, talking and praising God for the opportunity to share in the Pentecost worship.
Bishop James and Supervisor Arelis Davis welcomed the capacity crowd of over 11000 persons for this first ever district wide worship service. Also their were several out of district guests which included: Bishop and Mrs. F. C. Cummings, Bishop and Mrs. Reddick of the CME Church; Active and Retired General Officers; Active and Retired Connectional Officers and the members of the Davis Family along with other visitors Members of the core committed also welcome the attendees and shared with us the vision of their Servant Episcopal Leadership team for this quadrennium.
The worship began with a reenactment of the Pentecost from Acts 2. Through this enactment not only did the Holy Ghost moved through the participants in the enactment but the ghost moved through the entire convention center. People were filled with the spirit; people were shouting, running and praising the Lord. The singing of the 1000 voice choir under the leadership of Rev. Dr. Farrell Duncombe and his staff was a part of the mountaintop experience. We were also ministered in song by Recording Artist Kathy Taylor and Favor. Her singing of original selections and renditions of traditional Gospel music set the stage for the preached word.
We were read for the Spoken Word from the Lord using the Reverend Dr. William Watley, Pastor St. James AME Church, Newark, NJ. The Holy Ghost worked though the vessel of Rev. Watley using the topic: “The Holy Spirit is no Laughing Matter.” He challenged us to get back to our roots as Christians and remember that the Pentecostal movement is alive in each of us. Our main objective is to save souls and bring people to Christ.
As the service ended, Bishop Davis along with the Presiding elders of the District presented a check for $125,000 to the Cooper-Green Hospital in Birmingham, a charity hospital, to purchase new hospital beds for their patients. He is a believer in the church being a servant to all people.
I was so happy and blessed to be a witness to this Pentecost. Personally, it brought a spiritual revival to my soul. The Notable Ninth District has set the stage for African Methodism to reclaim its core purpose of saving souls, equipping and sending believers into world to make their communities a better place.
“Lord Send a Revival and Let it begin with me.”
*Jerry Turner, Jr. is a former Connectional Officer
jrturnerjerry@hotmail.com
4. BISHOP HENNING VISITS CHURCHES IN THE AKRON – CANTON AREA:
The Rev. Bruce Lambert Butcher
Bishop Henning has presided over the Third District less than a year but has firmly stamped his theme, “Moving toward Christian Excellence In…” upon the District. In this instance it was the Bishop moving toward Christian excellence in Episcopal Super intendancy.
Bishop C. Garnet Henning, Sr., presiding Bishop of the Third Episcopal District, visited the churches in the Akron-Canton area Thursday, May 21, 2009 as part of his ongoing program to visit all the churches in the Third District. The tour included St. Paul, Canton, Ohio; St. Paul, Akron, Ohio; St. Luke, Alliance, Ohio; and Allen Chapel, Barberton, Ohio. Bishop Henning was accompanied by the Reverend P. Robert Tate, Presiding Elder of the Youngstown District and Mrs. Geraldine Tate, the Reverend Robert Dye, Pastor of St. Paul, Canton, the Reverend Bruce Butcher, Pastor of St. Paul, Akron, and the Reverend Floyd Alexander, Third District Accountant.
Bishop Henning began his visit at the Stark County Courthouse with attorneys representing the A.M.E. Church in a case involving property rights. After this meeting the Bishop went to visit St. Paul, Canton Ohio. St. Paul church will host the 129th Session of the North Ohio Annual Conference and Bishop Henning want to be oriented to grounds and area before the conference took place. Reverend Dye took Bishop Henning on a thorough tour of the facility. Bishop Henning noted he was pleased that preparations for the Annual Conference were on schedule.
Next, Bishop Henning visited our church in Alliance, Ohio. St. Luke, Alliance, Ohio has been a part of the A.M.E. connection for over one hundred years but recently it has brought into litigation by some former disaffected members over property rights. Bishop Henning expressed confidence that the A.M.E. church would prevail in court over the issue. Bishop Henning went on to state emphatically his concern for the spiritual condition of the ministry and parishioners as well as the physical condition of the churches in the Third District.
Bishop Henning went to Akron Ohio to St. Paul Church. The pastor, the Reverend Bruce Butcher, gave him a tour of the church. St. Paul church had been damaged nearly two years ago when an Akron City police cruiser crashed into the building following a high speed chase. Bishop Henning was pleased with the more than $100,000 renovations made under the administration of Pastor Butcher. Reverend Butcher also used the opportunity to invite Bishop Henning to climax the one hundred year church anniversary.
Bishop Henning concluded his visit with a tour of Allen Chapel, Barberton, Ohio.
Bishop Henning thanked those who accompanied him on the tour and then proceeded to return to the Third District headquarters in Columbus, Ohio. Those who accompanied Bishop Henning on the tour thanked him for his concern for the ministers, the laypersons and the churches in the area.
5. AME, AMEZ, AND CME SENIOR BISHOPS CALL ON CHURCHES TO SUPPORT HIV TESTING IN THE MONTH OF JUNE:
(Richmond, VA) The senior bishops of the nation's oldest Black church denominations are launching a national crusade to engage churches of all denominations to support The Balm In Gilead's 9th Annual Our Church Lights the Way - HIV Testing Campaign. Each senior bishop: The Rt. Rev. John Bryant, of the African Methodist Episcopal Church (AME); The Rt. Rev. George W. C. Walker, Sr. of the African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church (AME Zion) and The Rt. Rev. William H. Graves, Sr. of the Christian Methodist Episcopal Church (CME) has produced a public service announcement to be used by churches, community and civic organizations and individuals, as well as all media outlets to encourage African Americans to take the HIV test.
The 2009 Our Church Lights the Way Campaign also includes a public service announcement with the combined leadership of The Rt. Rev. Yvette Flunder, Senior Bishop of The Fellowship and Senior Pastor of The City of Refuge United Church of Christ; and Dr. Katie G. Cannon, Professor, Union Theological Seminary in Richmond, VA along with the senior bishops of the AME, AME Zion and CME denominations.
According to Pernessa C. Seele, Founder/CEO of The Balm In Gilead, Our Church Lights the Way HIV Testing Campaign is a Call to Action from pulpits across our nation to encourage and support individuals to take the HIV test and to seek immediate care and treatment if test results are positive and for everyone, with positive or negative results, to live responsibility regarding sexual and emotional behaviors.
In 2007-08, the campaign resulted in a 300% increase in the number of African American churches conducting HIV testing programs at their places of worship. Faith-based testing programs often report a 100% return rate of persons receiving HIV test results. "The significance of faith-based HIV testing programs cannot be under estimated", states Ronald V. Dellums, Mayor of Oakland, CA and former US Congressman. "These institutions are respected cornerstones in the community and have a great role to play in the AIDS pandemic. The Balm in Gilead's model for engaging faith institutions in addressing HIV/AIDS is a successful global model for community mobilization".
Our churches must do far more to stop the spread of HIV/AIDS in our communities. We have been so misled and misinformed about this disease. It is time for all of us to be led by facts and unconditional love regarding HIV/AIDS, states, Bishop William H. Graves Sr.
According to the Kaiser Family Foundation, approximately 2% of the African American population is presently living with HIV/AIDS. It is believed that 20,000 to 30,000 African Americans become newly infected with the virus that causes AIDS every year. "Most people in our communities do not know they have the virus in their bodies.
Our churches must begin to realize its role in getting people tested and caring for all persons who are HIV positive," states the Rev. Katie Cannon.
In 2005, The Balm in Gilead in partnership with the Women's Missionary Societies of the AME, AME Zion and CME denominations launched its African American Denominational Leadership Health Initiative. Today, this partnership has resulted in the establishment of a strong network of health ministries that support the service delivery of disease prevention and health promotion activities to local communities across the US, Africa and the Caribbean.
For your free copy of the public service announcements and other materials on how your church and community can participate in Our Church Lights the Way HIV Testing Campaign visit: www.balmingilead.org or call 888-225-6243.
The 2009 Our Church Lights the Way HIV Testing Campaign is supported by The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the National HIV Testing Mobilization Campaign.
6. A CHURCH SCHOOL TEACHER CELEBRATES 25 YEARS OF MINISTRY AND THE MILITARY STUDENTS SHE INFLUENCES:
Fort Washington, Maryland. Memorial Day is a time to remember those who fought for their country, and to demonstrate to families of the fallen that their loved ones are not forgotten. Even though their lives were taken, they live on in the memories of families and friends. Memorial Day is also a time to reflect on the aftermath of war and its impact on the families left behind. It is a time for those who have faith, to look toward a future free of war and serious conflict. For the men and women who are serving in the military in areas where they have access to AME Churches, some are the recipients of the best influences the church has to offer.
There is the sound of footsteps - high heel shoes, hurrying down a long hallway to a classroom, with empty tables and chairs, a flipchart ready for outlining today’s Sunday School Lesson and maps covering the walls. A book bag is filled with teaching materials: a Bible, more than one edition, a Commentary, textbooks, and handouts for students. There is a lone classroom teacher preparing for the arrival of students. Retired Lieutenant Colonel Michael L. Nelson (U.S. Army) walks in quietly and greets Sister Jervie Petty, followed by “Cowboy” Marine Master Sergeant Ira Johnson, (Retired) and his wife Jeanette. Major Howard L. Nichols (Retired) and his wife Nonya rush in and fill the empty silence in the room. Commander Martha Crenshaw (Ret.) and Lieutenant Colonel Reginald Thomas stop by the Adult Class to chat, then hurry off to teach two youth classes. Colonel Venetia Brown and Bro. Michael Brown enter and join hands with several non-military classmates as opening prayer is offered.
This is the start of another Sunday morning Adult Church School Class. Church school plays a vital role in the lives of the adults who attend this class. What makes this day significant is the fact that the assembled class will study today’s scriptural lesson, remember our slain military officers, salute our retired and active Veterans and celebrate Sister Jervie Petty for 25 years of dedicated service as the lead instructor for the Adult Church School class at Ebenezer AME Church, Fort Washington, Maryland.
In this Washington, DC suburban community that typically engages in a fast-paced schedule, inclusive of 24/7 work schedules, dashing off to professional worksites, engaging in social and civic duties, managing households, maintaining fitness routines, anything outside of attending regular Sunday morning worship service is an anomaly. Teaching a group of church school students for 25 years is not a typical occurrence; in fact, it is a rarity. In today’s high tech society, who gives up that much time and is that committed to anything or anyone? The answer is Sis. Jervie Scott Petty.
Jervie’s roots are steeped in African Methodism, South Carolina style. She was born into the home of Carrie and Leroy Scott in Andrews, South Carolina, near Columbia.
Leroy Scott owned the city barbershop and in the summer months, cultivated a garden of vegetables and fruit that was shared with the entire community. Carrie nurtured five children, with love, discipline and high expectations. Jervie was one of them. The family became active members of Mt. Lebanon A.M.E. Church and gave their children opportunities to experience all the activities this A.M.E. church offered: leadership in youth programs, music, Christian Education, and participation in Sunday Church School.
Education was valued in Jervie’s home. The children attended Rosemary School from grades one through twelve. Jervie excelled academically and became a leader in the Student Government Association, served as a class officer from grades 7 – 12 and was a charter member of the National Honor Society. She was voted “most likely to succeed” by her high school senior class. And succeed she did.
Allen University in Columbia, South Carolina gave her the foundation she needed to succeed as a Social Science major at North Carolina A&T University, Greensboro, North Carolina. After graduating from A&T, she met and married a wonderful man, John A. Petty, a (PK) preacher’s kid. Following graduation they decided to explore the opportunities available in the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area. With God as the head of their household, they settled in Fort Washington, Maryland. Soon after, three children were born: Tony, Scott and Lynnette.
Jervie and John knew the value of rearing children in a community of believers. They joined Ebenezer A.M.E. Church, Fort Washington in 1983 and their path has never strayed. Jervie serves as a member of the Trustee Board, the Usher Board and is lead teacher for the Adult Church School class, a position she has held for 25 years.
The community has benefited from Jervie’s service. She is currently serving as a high school principal in the Charles County Public School System in Maryland where she has shaped the lives of countless young adults. She is the recipient of the Washington Post Newspaper’s Distinguished Leadership Award, an award given annually to outstanding educators nationally. She is responsible for chartering the Fort Washington, Maryland Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., where she served as the Chapter’s Charter President. She served as chair of the National Political Congress of Black Women and chairwoman of the Prince George’s County (MD government) Citizens Oversight Panel.
Jervie’s commitment to Christ, His teachings, and His people is evident through her teaching ministry. All of her students see God’s calling on her life, especially her military students. During her 25 year teaching experience, many students have been assigned to military posts around the world and some have returned to Ebenezer to live out their retirements. MSgt Ira Johnson is a good example of her influence.
The military afforded its members countless opportunities to travel to foreign countries. While on assignment in Operation Desert Storm, Battalion Sergeant Major Johnson explained that his “most challenging task in the Marine Corps was Battalion leader for the largest number of women Marines, in the entire combat zone, ages 19-28. The assignment was tough because most of the Marines had combat experience behind them and were awaiting transport home. The situation was volatile. The outgoing Sergeant Major confided that I was selected for this assignment because of my demonstrated spiritual belief and devotion to Godly principles. Whenever hard decisions had to be made, The Command knew it would be done in a God-spirited manner.” This demonstrates the teaching of Sis. Petty had taken root on foreign soil. On this Memorial Day Sergeant Major Johnson (Ret) has bitter/sweet reflections admitting that “this day is recognition that many past and present wars should never have been fought for the reasons given by the government. This celebration also demonstrates that the American people have the ability to overcome insurmountable odds by sheer tenacity and stubbornness, with a positive outcome”.
Commander Martha Crenshaw (Ret.) recalls her most rewarding experience as an Executive Officer and Associate Professor of the Naval Officer Reserve Training Center at Hampton University, Norfolk State University and Old Dominion University. She was in charge of the NROTC, one of the largest officer accession training programs in the Navy. During this assignment she trained 500 students and commissioned over 300 officer candidates into the Naval and Marine Corps. She stated that “teaching students was one of my goals in life and imparting knowledge to others brought me joy and contentment. I prayed and waited on the Lord for this assignment and he answered my prayer. It was the right assignment in the right place and at the right time of my life. It was my passion! I thank God for such a wonderful and fulfilling opportunity!”
The military has its share of challenges also, according to Commander Crenshaw. While serving in a Washington DC assignment as the Director of the In-service Procurement and Transfer Division, I met the enemy. This office was a part of the Navy's Personnel Policy and Career Department. In this capacity, “I was responsible for over 35 different programs, a staff of 50 and a budget over $250 million dollars, which included reenlistment bonuses, technical training schools, retirement programs and the Naval Separation Program. One of the most challenging situations in this position was “continuously losing highly qualified personnel to many of my colleagues in the same department. I had to constantly train new and difficult personnel that no one else wanted in their division. I believed that if I put 100% effort in any job, I could produce outstanding results. I relied on my relationship with God to remain calm and to do my best regardless of the circumstance. I found strength in God and received support from my family and my church. I relied on Galatians: 6: 9: And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not”.
Commander Crenshaw states that “Memorial Day allows me to reflect on the many challenges that the Lord brought me through. It was from this experience that I learned to trust in him and to ‘lean not on my own understanding’. As a Naval Officer, I consider it a blessing to support my community and serve as a role model for students and adults across the nation. It is a day that I truly feel honored for the service rendered to my Country by my fallen comrades and those of us in the active military!”
Colonel Michael L. Nelson (Ret.) recounts many harrowing and not-so harrowing military experiences and through them all, God brought him out. One experience stands out for him while serving with the 4th Infantry, Division (Mechanized) at Fort Carson, Colorado. It is nicknamed the old Ironside Division. He was an Army Captain and the S-2 (Intelligence Officer) of the famed 1st Squadron, 10th United States Cavalry: the old Buffalo Soldiers. He was assigned to a board of three officers that was to determine whether or not a soldier should be discharged from the Army under ‘Less Than Honorable Conditions’ or ‘Dishonorable’ conditions after he/she had been convicted of a crime by a court martial panel. Under the ‘Dishonorable Discharge Uniform Code of Military Justice’, the soldier would be separated immediately, however, under ‘Less Than’ honorable conditions, the soldier would be allowed to finish his/her enlistment.
Colonel Nelson was Chief of the Board of the three investigative officers. He states “I was briefed by the soldier’s Commanding Officer who emphatically stated that he wanted this soldier crushed, humiliated and kicked out of the Army under the most severe penalty that the Army could muster. The three officers received the guilty soldier’s paper work, questioned him under oath and studied the matter fully. It was our decision that the soldier should be allowed to finish his enlistment and be discharged from the Army despite his infractions and without the stain of a Dishonorable discharge. I prayed to God to give me the strength of my convictions and to carry out our findings, despite the obvious pressure from the higher ups and the military community.
Needless to say the top brass was livid. I received a public humiliation at the Officer’s Club from the Colonel who wanted the soldier dishonorably discharged. The words still ring clear in my mind: “…if this was the type of soldier that I wanted in our Army, than he feared for the future of our beloved country”. I questioned my own judgment and whether or not I was fit to serve.
Years later I was nominated for a prestigious assignment on the Joint Chiefs of Staff, the Pentagon. This highly coveted tour of duty was very competitive with other ranking officers also in contention. I was chosen, bringing great honor to the Nelson family. On my first day of duty at the Pentagon during an office call with Lieutenant General P. X. Kelly, I learned that the overriding consideration for my selection was the forceful argument, given on my behalf, by the Colonel who wanted the soldier dishonorably discharged. This Colonel said he knew me personally, and that I was an officer of sound judgment that would not be pressured into making false decisions just to please his superior officers. The Colonel noted that I was the type of officer that would put his own integrity on the line for his convictions. I was flabbergasted to think that this Colonel would speak this highly about me after all those years and the negative encounter we had at the Officer’s Club. This must have been how Jacob felt when he wrestled with the stranger in Genesis 32: 22-28. He learned what we must learn: our breakthrough has a method that we must execute.
Sister Petty’s students see in her the best model of servanthood. She is committed to her students and believes she receives as much from them as she gives. Her students are very diverse professionally and are totally committed to studying God’s word. Her students attempt to live their lives based upon the ethical principles they have learned from the models in the scripture. Church School is an essential part of the lives of these students. During this Memorial Day celebration, we believe that her teachings have been a blessing to some fallen soldier whose life was taken in battle. At the close of today’s class, the students and teacher join hands for a closing prayer as we offer praise reports and petition God for His blessings upon us during the upcoming work week. Sister Petty’s footsteps can be heard going down the hallway for another week of work at her Charles County High School.
*Written by Dr. Cellestine Cheeks, President, Second Episcopal District Lay Organization and member of the Church School class taught by Sister Jervie Petty
7. ST. LUKE, NEW YORK CITY HOST DELEGATION FROM THE WORLD'S LARGEST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH:
*The Rev. Melvin Wilson
On Friday, May 22, 2009, St. Luke A.M.E. Church, New York, NY was fortunate to host Rev. Dr. Kim Sam-Whan and a delegation of approximately 25 persons from the largest Presbyterian Church in the world, Myungsung Church of Seoul, South Korea. Myungsung Church has a reported membership of 80,000, with seven worship services each Sunday and four pre-dawn prayer services. Rev. Dr. Sam-Whan has served as Pastor of the church for over 29 years. The visit was conceived, envisioned and set up by Rev. Dr. Michael Kinnamon, General Secretary of the National Council of Churches of Christ in the USA. Rev. Dr. Kinnamon was also present.
St. Luke was chosen as a site visit because Rev. Dr. Kim Sam-Whan and delegation desired to see a church involved in "Diaconal," mission-oriented, community ministry. Officers and members of St. Luke, who volunteer and serve in the church's various mission ministries, were on hand to greet the Korean visitors. The attached information packet summarizing St. Luke's mission involvement was distributed to all in attendance.
Pastor Sam-Whan and his delegation spent a good amount of time (through an interpreter) listening to Pastor Melvin E. Wilson of St. Luke talk about the mission and ministry of St. Luke and the African Methodist Episcopal Church.
After very heartfelt and spirit-filled remarks by Pastor Sam-Whan, Pastor Wilson accepted several gifts on behalf of St. Luke A.M.E. Church:
- Handmade Korean clergy stole
- Invitation to preach at Myungsung Church in Korea
- The book, "Oh Lord, I Am Your Meosum" (Servant) written by Pastor Sam-Whan
- Beautifully crafted book marks
- A generous financial donation to the Community Feeding Ministry of St. Luke to go towards the purchase of a new refrigerator
St. Luke thanks God for allowing it to continue to be "A Ministry of Teaching, Reaching, and Preaching."
*The Rev. Melvin Wilson is the pastor of St. Luke AME Church in NYC
8. WHY ARE WE SO TAKEN WITH PROFESSIONAL SPORTS ATHLETES:
*James B. Ewers, Jr., Ed.D
I often ask young children, especially boys, what they want to do when they reach adulthood. One of the most repeated answers is that they want to become professional athletes. The two primary sports that they have an interest in and not to my surprise are basketball and football. It seems that basketball almost has turned into a cult sport. Many boys want to in some way identify with Dwayne Wade, Yao Ming and Kobe Bryant. The goal of being a sports star is coming from students as early as elementary school. So it is not shocking to hear some of the same answers coming from boys at the middle school and high school level. I have often wondered what the appeal to being a professional athlete is. When I was coming of age in North Carolina, I don’t believe I thought once about being a sports star. My friends as we mused about our life’s work didn’t mention athletics as a possible career field. Is the draw to being a professional sports star linked to money, fame and visibility? I suspect that it is a little bit of all of these things. As to my professional career goal when I was young it was to either become a lab technician or to become a lawyer.
Professional sports stars are all around us as they fill our airways on a daily basis. I would suggest that today you can find a professional sports team on television twenty four hours a day every day of the year. Now that is what I call sports overload but that is the current state of affairs. So maybe we shouldn’t be too surprised when we hear our children say they want to be the next Lebron James instead of the next Dr. Benjamin Carson. By the way, you may want to read his book entitled “Gifted Hands” which chronicles the life of this gifted surgeon. Professional athletes, even retired ones, have been getting a lot of attention lately. Let’s just take the case of Brett Favre for many years the star quarterback of the Green Bay Packers. He “retired” in a tearful ceremony just a few years ago only to come back last season and play with the New York Jets. He then announced after the season that he was going to retire “again”. Now at this moment he is being courted by the Minnesota Vikings. So some young boys see this kind of scenario playing out and they think that in some way this is cool and this what living “large” really means. They say maybe I want to be like Brett. What young boys don’t understand and we as adult men don’t emphasize enough is that professional athletes live in an unreal environment. In the real world, you just can’t jump from job to job and think that it is ok.
It is my opinion that the almost hero like worship given to athletes begins at a tender age. Over time, I have watched a number of sports being played by young boys and girls. I have had to smile as I listen to parents urge their children on to score the next basket or hit the next ball. Don’t get me wrong as I think it is very important for us as parents to encourage and support our children. When my children were young I did the same thing. However I wasn’t in the coach’s face demanding that my child get more playing time or worst yet trying to be a sideline coach. When a child is six or seven years of age they don’t really care if they score a goal. They aren’t looking for their name in the box score in the newspaper the next day. They simply want the “happy meal” at the end of the game. The winning and losing doesn’t stay with them very long. It ends when they get in the car. As a result of the emphasis by some us on winning at an early age it is not a wonder that some kids want professional sports careers. Professional sports careers in my opinion are simply over glamorized.
There aren’t many stores where you can’t find a jersey or a cap with your favorite player or team on it. Wouldn’t it be wonderful in some way if we couldn’t just “flip the script” and put the names of successful people and businesses on jerseys and caps. Just for starters maybe we could walk around with a Ben and Jerry’s (the ice cream company) jersey or a Colin Powell cap. Yes it is farfetched but we must balance a young person’s perspective about professional sports stars with a heavy dose of reality. As adults, we know that there are only a limited number of opportunities in professional sports. In actuality a young boy has a better chance of becoming a doctor than he does of becoming a professional sports star. Planting early seeds about various career interests will help to broaden our children’s horizons. Providing them with information, taking them on excursions will also increase their confidence and broaden their minds. The next Dr. Benjamin Carson is out there!
*Dr. James B. Ewers, Jr. is the Associate Dean for Student Affairs and Director of Community Partnerships at Miami University Middletown, Ohio
9. WAYMAN AME CHURCH DAYTON, OHIO:
Website and Sunday morning Worship Podcast: http://www.waymanchapelame.org/
10. NORTH STELTON CELEBRATES 20 YEARS OF PASTORAL SERVICE:
Recently, the North Stelton AME Church proudly celebrated with their beloved pastor, the Rev. Dr. Kenneth L. Saunders, Sr., 20 years of pastoral and community service. The theme for the celebration came from one of Pastor Saunders favorite scriptures, John 9:4: “Working While It’s Yet Day.” We give praises and honor to the Almighty for not only sending us a God-fearing and wise Pastor, but we are truly blessed with a loving First Family. Our First Lady, Sister Shirley is a warm and friendly virtuous woman; and our First Son, Brother Kenny, is a kind and considerate gentleman.
Planning for the anniversary festivities was spearheaded by Co-Chairpersons Brother Michael Griffith, Vice- Chair Steward Board; Brother Leslie Slade, Pastor’s Steward; and, Sister Wanda Finley, Vice-Chair Trustee Board. The sanctuary overflowed as the celebration began on Sunday afternoon, April 26th with a high-spirited worship service. The services opened with songs of Praise and Worship led by the Bethel AME Church Choir of Madison along with their Pastor, the Rev. Teresa L. Rushdan. Bethel Madison was Rev. Saunders' first pastoral appointment in New Jersey. The Liturgical Dance Ministry from Pastor Saunders’ childhood church, Mt. Pisgah AME Church of Jersey City, participated in the service as well. The Youth of North Stelton also paid tribute to their Pastor through song, liturgical dance and through the art of “stepping.” The guest preacher for this auspicious occasion was none other than that dynamic orator, the Rev. Dr. DeForest (Buster) Soaries, Jr., Pastor of the First Baptist Church of Lincoln Gardens, Somerset.
Worship services continued on Wednesday, April 29th and Thursday, April 30th, with guest preachers the Rev. Dr. Larry Dixon, Pastor of Mt. Teman AME in Elizabeth and the Rev. Dr. Ronald Owens, pastor of New Hope Baptist in Metuchen, respectively. The guest worship leaders for these services, Pastor Laverne Ball of Rose of Sharon Community Church and Pastor W. Golden Carmon of Mt. Zion AME, both of Plainfield, were inspiring and enthusiastic. Indeed we had a high time in the Lord.
On Saturday, May 2nd, North Stelton continued the celebration with the 20th Pastoral Anniversary Luncheon and Roast at the Galloping Hill Inn in Union. Over 300 special guests including many of our parishioners, numerous pastors and ministers from various churches, family members, co-workers and long-time friends of our First Family attended the gala event. Dignitaries included Piscataway Mayor Brian Wahler, Senator Ronald Rice; Assemblymen Upendra Chivukula, Former Assemblyman L. Harvey Smith, and members of both the Piscataway and Middlesex Democratic Organizations.
The Roast Master, the Rev. Dr. J. Stanley Justice, pastor of Greater Mt. Zion AME in Trenton, did an excellent job at keeping the program moving and on point with some outlandish quips and stories that kept the audience amused. There were many laughs at Pastor's expense as well as many touching and somber moments. Guests were able to catch a glimpse into Pastor's childhood through the eyes of his siblings, Sisters Gladys Pegeron and Yvonne Rolley; and Brother Charles Saunders. Other Roasters included Peter J. Barnes, Retired Chairman of the NJ State Parole Board and the Rev. Howard T. Grant, Presiding Elder Newark District. One of the highlights of the afternoon happened when guests were serenaded by the melodious voices of the Singing Pastors of Piscataway. To our delight, the guest of honor, Pastor Saunders joined in and blessed us with his signature song, "Hello Christian.”
The Anniversary Committee also produced a celebratory journal with over 108 pages of heartwarming tributes and accolades to the First Family honoring 20 years of dedicated service to both church and community.
Just when we thought things could not get any better, on Sunday, May 3rd, The Right Reverend Richard Franklin Norris, Presiding Prelate of the First Episcopal District along with Mother Mary A. Norris, Presiding Elder M. Lloyd and Mrs. Guyton, Presiding Elder Howard T. and Mrs. Grant, and the North Stelton congregation all joined Mayor Wahler, Freeholder Millie Scott and Piscataway Council President Michael Griffith as we ushered Pastor Saunders and Sister Shirley outside in the rain to witness the unveiling of a brand new street sign on the corner of Ethel Road and Craig Avenue, naming that location the Rev. Kenneth L. Saunders, Sr. Square. Pastor was both surprised and humbled. What a fitting honor for such a deserving man!
The Anniversary Celebration culminated with our Sunday Worship and Communion Service. We were blessed and honored to have Bishop Richard F. Norris to bring the morning message and to share in the sacrament of Holy Communion. Bishop Norris preached a rich sermon from the Old Testament Book of Exodus, Chapter 4. His sermon topic: “Check out What You Have in Your Hand.” God walked among His people during this service and throughout the entire anniversary celebration.
Rev. Saunders and the First Family have been in Piscataway for 20 years. However, his pastoral ministry began in 1967 with his first appointment to Bethel AME Church in Bermuda where he was pastor until his return to the United States as the Pastor of Bethel AME Church in Madison, NJ. In April of 1989, the now retired Bishop Frank C. Cummings appointed Pastor Saunders to serve at North Stelton where many, many ministries and organizations have flourished under his direction and pastoral leadership.
Rev. Dr. Saunders has received numerous honors and awards. He is very proud to have received the First Baptist Community Development Corporation (FBCDC) Legacy Leadership Award and the Baptist Ministers Conference of Hudson County Award. In addition, Pastor Saunders was recently honored with the Community Partner Award by St. Peters University Hospital, New Brunswick, NJ. He has received accommodations from Governor Jon Corzine, Congressman Pallone, and the NAACP just to name a few. One of his most cherished honors, however, is his 2008 appointment to the Episcopal Committee of the AME Church.
Submitted by Sister Connie Stone and the Rev. Iola E. Davis
28 May 2009
11. NEWS AROUND THE AME CHURCH:
- Mrs. Ida B. Patterson, the mother of the Rev. Joseph D. Patterson, retired presiding elder, will be 100 years old on June 24, 2009.
- Bishop Vashti Murphy McKenzie will be preaching the Closing Sermon at the General Board of the African Methodist Episcopal Church on Wednesday, June 24, 2009 in New Orleans, Louisiana at 9:00 a.m.
- Senior Bishop, John R. Bryant, is scheduled to deliver the message at the Religious Leaders' Luncheon during the Centennial Convention of the NAACP on Monday July 13, 2009 1:00 to 2:30 PM at the New York Hilton.
- The 2004 AME Discipline is obsolete! It is history! It's time to purchase The 2008 Discipline. Call 615-256-5882; $27 plus $3 shipping and Handling.
12. ALL PRAISE AND HONOR; THE CALL CAME AND GOD AND THE DOCTORS DELIVERED:
*The Rev. Sherman Berry, Pastor
“ Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us unto him be glory! “
We the Pastor, Officers and Members of Union Chapel A.M.E Church of Kentwood, Louisiana are greatly rejoicing a “BLESSED” event that has transformed the life of a young Mother and member of the church. Her name is Amanda Moore she’s a 20 year old female in need of a heart transplant. She was placed in the United Network for Organ Sharing Database on February 27, 2009 at Ochsner Heart and Vascular Institute, Cardiomyopathy and Heart Transplant Center. While awaiting a heart Amanda under went the stress of several hospital stays, with fluid build-up and the cleansing of antibodies from her blood. Weekly trips were made to Ochsner, New Orleans, Baton Rouge and Mandeville, Louisiana for special treatments, not only to maintain her life but also continuous preparations in the event a heart became available. Unfortunately matters took a turn for the worst. Pastor Berry and the church family were informed that Amanda’s heart was operating at only ten (10 %) percent capacity and that it may still be awhile before a heart became available.
Amanda’s condition demanded she be upgraded to a stage two (2), However her faith along with her family and church family’s faith and prayers never waivered Our Trust in God remained Steadfast.
On Tuesday May 12, 2009 at midnight my phone rang, Ericka, Amanda’s mother relayed to me that God had found favor with Amanda, Ochsner called, a heart had become available and they needed to come in immediately. Should everything match the surgery would be performed. Needless to say “Everything “matched. All systems were a go.
On Wednesday May 13, 2009 at 7:00 a.m. Amanda’s surgery began; our entire community of Silver Creek was a buzz with Joy and jubilation as we awaited the results of an eight (8) Hour surgery. At 1:30 p.m. in the afternoon the wait was over and the celebration began. She survived the surgery and she and her new heart were bonding.
Amanda has now begun the necessary but routine step down program; Thus far her health is improving daily. We aren’t aware of all that lies ahead for her and the family during the recovery but, what we are aware of is that God is still answering prayer. We’ve all shared in this miracle moment in time together and we as a church family have experienced a stronger unity in support of Amanda. I say ‘To God be the Glory ‘
*The Reverend Sherman Berry is the pastor of Union Chapel African Methodist Episcopal Church in Kentwood, La. 70444
13. A MEMORABLE MEMORIAL DAY TRIBUTE - FORGIVENESS:
The Rev. G Paris M. Kelly
The history of Memorial Day dates back to 1868. The originally intent was to celebrate those individuals who have served as veterans in our nation and died in battle. The state of New York was the first to begin the celebration. Now we as a nation have placed attention on not just the people who have served our nation in combat but to those who have lived and died. For years the celebration was on May 30, but then it changed. During the weekend leading up to the last Monday in the month of May, there are various celebrations.
Much money is spent on food, beverages, entertainment, travel, flowers and flags to kick off this holiday. In observation, people were still having large cookouts and pig roasting.
The news of the swine flu did not change the menu of the cookout.
People prepare for outdoor events and family and friends travel from afar to visit their loved ones graves. The month of May is considered to be a great month of giving tribute and recognition. With celebrations such as Mother's Day and Memorial Day the month May is an interesting month for the community and nation.
Yet, it really doesn't matter which holiday we are celebrating there will be times when some are happy and some of sad. But for this Memorial Day weekend, the happiness begins on Saturday when the grills are on and the food is prepared.
The Sunday morning service is very important because this is the word which is preached to the living before they prepare for going to the visit the grave site of love ones.
We go to the grave sites to decorate our love ones graves with flowers and some just sit at the grave think. Yet in this land of the living we must celebrate the living as well.
On Sunday, May 24, 2009, The Rev. Ira K. McMillan, Pastor of New Mount Olive, A.M.E. Church, Chesapeake, Virginia, located at 1953 Old Campostella Rd, preached a message on "Forgiveness."
The message was from the New Testament reading from the book of Luke 6:27-38. The outline of the reading is regarding the inauguration of a new order by the Savior. McMillan challenged the congregation about forgiveness. McMillan expressed how people have taken “Unforgiveness” to their graves.
As the nation is celebrating Memorial Day we must consider that it is the Lord's desire for us to be free, said McMillan. McMillan, a veteran who served in the United States Army understands the meaning of Memorial Day.
Audrey and Thaddeus members of the Historic St James A.M.E. Church, Pittsburgh, PA traveled to be with their son during this holiday season who resides in Chesapeake, VA. They expressed how important forgiveness was to them and how their Pastor, Rev. James E. Murray, Jr. preach the same message on forgiveness.
It is imperative that we as nation put things in order. We must understand that Memorial Day is more not just a cookout, a beer party or the beginning of summer, but it is a day of Remembrance.
During the Memorial Day holiday while there is a lot of family and friends traveling to be together there are a lot of people who are sad and depressed.
"On Memorial Day, President Obama honored the nation's fallen troops in several ways. There was a breakfast at the White House for families who've lost loved ones in military service and at Arlington National Cemetery; he participated in a wreath-laying ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown. President Obama spoke at the Memorial Amphitheater at Arlington."
"Obama, the nation's first black president, planned to continue tradition and have aides leave a wreath at the Confederate Memorial in Arlington National Cemetery, the 600-acre site that once was Confederate Gen. Robert E. Lee's estate. But the White House also will send a wreath to the African American Civil War Memorial in Washington's historically black U Street neighborhood."
These are acts of forgiveness which have been displayed across the nation. The message which the church preaches and the messages which come from the Office of the President of the United States must be that of forgiveness.
There were many who protest whether to continue the celebration for the Confederate Memorial but the President know and understand what forgiveness is. Many people have died because of selfishness and ignorance yet it is our responsibility as a nation to find strength to forgive.
The message of forgiveness is not only a message for church members, it’s a message for the community; forgiveness is a step towards peace.
As the cross is to the Christian, the American flag is to the citizens of the United States. While some may not carry the cross, we all can carry the flag. Let's find forgiveness in our hearts.
14. FOURTH GENERATION OF COUSINS EXCEL IN HIGHER EDUCATION:
By the Reverend Edrena Houston Brown, MACE
The 2009 Graduating Class of 2009 from Garrett Evangelical Theological Seminary, located in Evanston, Illinois included two members of the Cousin Family; the Reverend Michael A. Cousin and Steven A. Cousin, Jr. The people were gathered to witness and share in this momentous occasion on May 15, 2009 in the sanctuary of First United Methodist Church of Evanston, Illinois. Years of study and preparation were culminated by the awarding of degrees.
The Reverend Michael A. Cousin, pastor of St. Stephen AME Church in Detroit, Michigan was awarded the Doctor of Ministry degree focusing upon Theology and Leadership. The subject of Dr. Cousin’s dissertation was Passing the Baton and Letting it go: Leadership Transition in a Traditional AME Church Congregation. This project formulated a paradigm for leadership transition in response to the 2004 Strategic Planning Commission Report of the AME Church. Project participants included members of St. Stephen AME Church, and selected clergy of the Michigan Annual Conference. This paradigm formulated a feasible yet non-threatening approach for embracing and accepting leadership change within the traditional minded church setting.
Reverend Cousin was appointed October 27, 2007 as the pastor of St. Stephen AME Church while completing his required class work for this degree. He is the fourth son of Bishop Philip Robert Cousin and Dr. Margaret Joan Cousin. He is married to Marcy Geneva Cousin. They are the proud parents of two sons: Michael A. Cousin, Jr., Fourth District President of the Young Peoples Department; and Timothy Charles Cousin.
Steven A. Cousin, Jr. earned the Master of Divinity degree from Garrett Theological Seminary, Evanston, Illinois, during the same commencement exercise. Steven, the grandson of Bishop Philip and Dr. M. Joan Cousin, is the son of Presiding Elder Steven A. Cousin, Sr., of the Fifth Episcopal District, Kansas City, Missouri and Mrs. Sybil A. Henderson, Henderson of Bristol, Pennsylvania.
Before entering seminary, Steven Cousin was awarded a scholarship in Track and Field to attend the University of Connecticut and received his Bachelor of Arts Degree, with a major in Political Science. While attending the University of Connecticut, Steven served as legislative intern for Congressman John Larson of Connecticut.
Currently, Steven is a member of the Michigan Conference and awaiting ordination as an itinerant deacon.
During the ceremony, Bishop Philip R. Cousin, who is a member of the Board of Trustees of Garrett Evangelical Theological Seminary, was afforded the honor presenting the degrees to his son and grandson.
15. HELP SUPPORT THE FUNDING FOR CHURCHTOWNE FREEDOM CENTER:
*Walter C. Jeffers
This is the area of the Southeast section of Lancaster city that was once known as the 7th Ward. It had a reputation as a rough part of town. Lancaster Sunday News ran a feature on the project. Here are some highlights. Bethel AME will start the revitalization of city’s Churchtowne, an economic "engine" to fire up the works; good, livable homes, both owner-occupied and quality rentals; neighborhood shops and micro-enterprises; all of which should help to inspire neighbors to join.
The big dream is to anchor the revitalization with a theater and museum for Bethel's "Living the Experience" Underground Railroad program, which already draws tourists by the busload to Churchtowne.
Churchtowne is the historical name for the neighborhood around Bethel AME. Bethel aims not only to renovate housing but to re-create the commercial establishments and jobs that once thrived there.
With about $90,000 from Lancaster County government and another $50,000 from the city, Bethel is acquiring the homes at 445 and 412 E. Strawberry and 454 Atlantic Avenue.
County funding, approved in November, is earmarked for an economic feasibility study for the Churchtowne Freedom Quest Theater and Cultural Museum, streetscape and neighborhood designs for the area surrounding the theater and acquisition of two of the three properties.
City funding went toward purchase of the "vision center" property. "It's been an eyesore for years," Mayor Rick Gray said. The Rev. Edward M. Bailey is the pastor of Bethel AME Church in Lancaster.
You can help by going to the webpage and selecting “Yes” to support this project.
Let’s help out Bethel, Lancaster in the best way we can; visit the website. http://www.stimuluswatch.org/project/view/8763 and vote “Yes” for the Churchtowne Freedom Center.
*This article is submitted by Walter C. Jeffers, the Editor of the First District Flame Newspaper and the Philadelphia Annual Conference Reporter
16. THE SIDE EFFECTS OF BECOMING A CHRISTIAN:
*The Rev. N.T. Pitts
Whenever I go to the Doctor with an ailment, and after he examines me and determines that I need medicine, he writes me a prescription. The first question I ask is what are the side effects? And after being informed of the possible side effects, I go home and get on my computer and search for more information. And if the side effects are worse than for what I am being treated, I evaluate and sometimes I don’t the medication. I have had the experience of feeling worse after taking the prescribed medicine than I did before taking it.
Using this as an analogy, it is this writer’s observation and assumption that our churches are having difficulties receiving and retaining new members because, when they join, they are not told or taught the “side effects” of being a Christian. Instead, when they join, they are placed on a class under class leaders who, themselves, are not aware, or ignore the “side effects” of being a Christian. Oftentimes, it is much later when they are told the financial obligations expected of them. Many of those who join the church come with the notion that all they have to do is give the preacher their hand and open their checkbook a little bit. When the reality of what’s required of them hits them; they become transitory, and caught in a revolving door.
There are many who are reluctant to become a Christian because after they discover the “side effects,” they hesitate. They conclude that the “side effects” are too demanding and leaves no room for compromise. The “side effects” are too challenging.
Walk with me, if you will, to check some “side effects” of being a Christian.
- You must not be a reciprocator of evil-- Matthew 5:38
- You must not strike someone back who strikes you first--Matthew 5:39
- If someone sues you give him more than he is asking for-- Matthew 5:40
- You must love your enemies-- Matthew 5:44
- You must bless those that curse you -- Matthew 5: 44
- You must do good to them that hate you -- Matthew 5:44
- You must pray for them who misuse you and persecute you --Matthew 5: 44
- Not everyone is going to love you; you are going to be hated --Matthew 10:22
- You will be afflicted and killed -- Matthew 24:9
- You will be betrayed and offended-- Matthew 24:10
Finally, if you are going to be a follower of Christ you must deny yourself take up your cross and follower Him-- Matthew 16:24
Now, considering all of the above “side effects,” do you still profess to be, or have the desire to become a Christian?
Are the “side effects” too much for you to be a Christian?
The reason there is so much trouble and confusion in some of our churches is because the people are not accepting and living with the “side effects.”
Just as I refused to take medicine because of the “side effects,” there are those of us who have refused to live with the “side effects” of the Christian life.
*The Rev. N.T. Pitts is a retired AME Itinerant Elder who lives in Eatonville, Florida
17. THE 2009 ANNUAL CONFERENCE SCHEDULE FOR THE 15TH EPISCOPAL DISTRICT (ANGOLA, NAMIBIA AND SOUTH AFRICA):
The Right Rev. Wilfred J. Messiah, Presiding Prelate
Mrs. Carol I. Messiah, Episcopal Supervisor
THE ANGOLA ANNUAL CONFERENCE
19-23 august 2009
Bishop Senatle AME Church, Luanda
Host pastor: The Rev. Sara Quibuzo
Host Presiding Elder: The Rev. Jeremias Pereira
THE NAMIBIA ANNUAL CONFERENCE
2 – 6 September 2009
St. Mark’s, Gibeon
Host Pastor: The Rev. Albert E. Biwa
Host Presiding Elder: The Rev. Neels J. Simon
THE QUEENSTOWN ANNUAL CONFERENCE
4 – 8 November 2009
Primm Chapel, Aliwal North
Host Pastor and Presiding Elder: The Rev. I. Monare
THE EASTERN CAPE ANNUAL CONFERENCE
11 – 15 November 2009
St Matthews, De Aar
Host Pastor: The Rev. Natasha Hugo
Host Presiding Elder: The Rev. R. Goliath
THE KALAHARI ANNUAL CONFERENCE
25 – 29 November 2009
T. A. Gaetsewe, Mothibistad
Host Pastor: The Rev. S. P. Maphalle
Host Presiding Elder: The Rev. M. W. Bikwa
THE CAPE ANNUAL CONFERENCE
9 – 13 December 2009
Bethel AME, Wellington
Host Pastor: The Rev. D. Oormeyer
Host Presiding Elder: The Rev. A. B. Lewin
THE PLANNING MEETING & BOCE CONGRESS
17 – 20 December 2009
Z. T. Trinity, Keetmanshoop
Host Pastor and Host Presiding Elder: The Rev. Dr. Andreas Biwa
18. CLERGY FAMILY CONGRATULATORY MESSAGES:
- Retired General Officer, Dr. Sherman L. Greene, Jr. celebrated his 103rd Birthday on May 30, 2009.
Birthday greetings can be mailed to:
Dr. Sherman L. Greene, Jr.
2250 Tillsby Court
Ann Arbor, MI 48103
Phone: (734) 930.0582
Birthday greetings for Dr. Sherman L. Greene, Jr. can also be emailed to:
Mrs. Gwen Criglar (granddaughter of Dr. Greene) gwencriglar@yahoo.com
- Congratulations to Reginald Cleaver, Jr., Connectional YPD President. Reggie received a Bachelor of Arts degree in Economics from Morehouse College in Atlanta, GA on Sunday, May 17, 2009.
Congratulatory responses can be mailed to:
Reginald Cleaver, Jr.
3723 Winfield Ct.
Atlanta, GA 30331
Or email:
regdaprez@yahoo.com
- Michael A. Cousin Jr., President, Fourth Episcopal District YPD, son of the Rev. Dr. Michael A. Cousin, Sr., pastor of St. Stephen AME Church-Detroit, Michigan and Mrs. Marcy Geneva Cousin; and the grandson of Bishop Philip Robert Cousin, Sr. and Dr. Margaret Joan Cousin, graduates June 2, 2009 from the Woodhaven High School in Brownstown, Michigan.
Michael plans to attend Wayne State University in the fall.
Congratulatory messages can be emailed to: mr_ypd_prez09@hotmail.com
Or:
23596 Lori Drive
Brownstown, Michigan 48134
- On May 16, 2009, Andrea Hassell graduated with a Master’s of Science Degree with a concentration in Childhood Education – Mathematics, Science, and Technology from Dowling College in Oakdale, New York. She is married to Rev. Terry Hassell, who is a Chaplin at Emory University and they are the proud parents of three children. Andrea Hassell recently published her first children’s book, Anthony, the Ant, website location: www.thebutterflyseries.com.
Congratulatory messages can be emailed to: adhassell@juno.com
- Brother Timothy Brown graduated from the University of Texas in Arlington, with a Bachelors of Arts Degree in Honors Theatre Arts on May 16, 2009. Brother Timothy Brown is a Licentiate at St. James AME Church-Fort Worth, Texas where the Rev. Damon Blakeley is pastor (Greater Fort Worth District-Northwest Conference).
Congratulatory messages can be emailed to Brother Tim at: bishop_tp_brown2005@yahoo.com
- The Reverend Roland C. and Mrs. Rhonda J. McCall proudly announce the graduation of their daughter Rolanda Celeste McCall from Howard University in Washington, DC on Friday and Saturday May 8 and 9, 2009 from the School of Arts and Sciences. Rolanda Celeste received a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology. Reverend Roland C. McCall is the pastor of Grant A.M.E. Church in Boston, MA.
Congratulatory messages can be emailed to:
rolandamccall@yahoo.com
rhonmccall@aol.com
- On May 7, 2009 Miss Josie C.A. Kelley graduated from Georgia State University’s J. Mack Robinson College of Business with the Bachelor of Business Administration majoring in Hospitality.
- On May 27, 2009 Miss Grace M.A. Kelley graduated from Benjamin Elijah Mays High School Magnet Math and Science Academy at the Atlanta Civic Center, Atlanta Georgia. While at Mays, Grace was Miss Blue and Gold 2008-09, MVP Girls Soccer 2008-09, Scholar Athlete 2008-09, Two Sport Athlete 2008-09 and a member of the Atlanta Public Schools SAT 1500+/ACT 21+ CLUB 2009. A member of Trinity AME Church, Grace is a Junior Church School Superintendent, Nursery/Primary Church School Teacher, a member of the Voices of Praise and an active YPD participant. Grace will be attending Valdosta State College in Valdosta Georgia in the fall. She plans to major in Athletic Training.
The proud and thankful parents are Mr. Michael and the Rev. Amanda Kelley of Atlanta, Georgia. Rev. Kelley is the Minister of Christian Education at Trinity AME Church, where the Rev. Jeffrey B. Cooper is the pastor. She is also the assistant to Dean John Green at Turner Theological Seminary at the Interdenominational Theological Center.
Congratulatory responses can be emailed to:
The Rev. Amanda Kelley: revamandakelley@bellsouth.net
- Master Eugene Elliott Brannon, the 17 year-old son of Presiding Elder Eugene and Anita Brannon, graduated from Little Rock Hall High School on Wednesday evening, May 27, 2009.
Eugene Brannon was in the top 10% of his class, and during senior activities, he was recognized as being one of the most dedicated and successful senior men. Eugene will attend the University of Arkansas at Little Rock and will focus on a degree in Business Administration. Beginning Saturday, May 30, 2009, Eugene will serve as a Junior Counselor at Arkansas' Boys State. All praises are to God for working in and with Eugene!
Congratulatory messages may be sent to:
Eugene Elliott Brannon: young_e_23@aol.com
- Michael D. Broadnax, II, son of the Rev. Michael and Charlotte Broadnax (pastor and first-lady of Greater Bethel AME Church Nashville, TN), graduated with Honors from Page Senior High School on Friday, May 22, 2009. He will be attending Middle Tennessee State University in the fall.
Congratulatory responses can be emailed to: Called813@aol.com
- We joyfully announce the birth of Roman Josiah Woodberry. Roman Josiah was born on Monday, June 1, at 8:07 a.m. in Chicago, Illinois, to Constance Grady Woodberry, and Kenneth Woodberry Esq. Roman is the grandson of Bishop and Mrs. Z. L. Grady (retired). He is the nephew of Felita Grady Davis and the Rev. Carey A. Grady. Roman joins siblings Kendall Bynum Woodberry and Zachary Andrew Grady Woodberry and is the cousin of Cara Leigh Davis. Roman made his entrance at 7 lbs and 19 1/2 inches long.
Congratulatory expressions can be emailed to:
Bishop and Mother Grady: W1MG2CL@aol.com
Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth Woodberry Esq.: cluvira@yahoo.com
- The Rev. Byron C. Moore, the Pastor of Ebenezer AME Church in Detroit and his wife, the Rev. Sharon D. Moore, welcomed the newest addition to their family on Saturday, May 30, 2009 at 11:58 am, as Rev. Sharon gave birth to their son, Caleb Darius Moore. Caleb entered this world weighing 8 pounds, 10 ounces and measuring 21 inches long. Rev. Sharon and Caleb are both doing well. Praise God from whom all blessings flow.
Congratulatory expressions can be emailed to: bcm0902@aol.com
Congratulations to the Reverend Dr. Deborah A. McCaffity, pastor of St. James/St. Philip AME Churches in New York, NY. Pastor McCaffity received her Doctor of Ministry Degree at the 223rd Commencement at New Brunswick Theological Seminary on May 17, 2009. Pastor McCaffity's concentration was in Urban Ministry. The Metro-Urban Ministry program at New Brunswick Theological Seminary is a collaborative pedagogy with Rutgers University's Edward J. Bloustein School of Urban Policy and Planning and Public Health. Dr. McCaffity's thesis title is: “Moving from Learned Helplessness and Internalized Racial Oppression to Stewardship for two AME Congregations”.
Congratulatory expressions can be emailed to: dmccaffity@aol.com
- The Rev. O. Thomas Austin, retired pastor in the Tenth Episcopal District, North Texas Conference, and Mrs. Verdene K. Austin, former Tenth Episcopal District President of the Clergy Spouses, happily announce that their granddaughter, Ashley Marceau Austin, received the Bachelor of Science Degree in Psychology, with a minor in Economics, from Southern Methodist University, Dallas, Saturday, May 16, 2009.
Congratulations can be emailed to:
The Rev. and Mrs. O. Thomas Austin: otaustin@prodigy.net
19. MESSAGE OF GRATITUDE FROM FORMER EPISCOPAL SUPERVISOR, THE REV. ROSALYNN BROOKINS:
To the Bishops, Supervisors, General Officers, Connectional Officers, Presiding Elders, Pastors, Missionaries, and laity:
On behalf of the Brookins, Smith and Johnson family, I would like to take this opportunity to extend profound gratitude to each of you for your prayers, flowers, cards and words of encouragement during our time of bereavement in the passing of my mother, Mrs. Eunice Carol Johnson Smith.
Please know that words are inadequate to express our heartfelt thanks for the outpouring of love we experienced during our loss.
Again, thank you and it is our prayer that God will continue to bless each of you.
In His Name,
The Rev. Rosalynn Brookins
20. EPISCOPACY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
Service Arrangements for Reverend Cornelius C. Cummings, pastor of the St. Paul African Methodist Episcopal Church, husband of Mrs. Ira G. Cummings, father of Intranet and Carita Cummings, grandfather of Anyra and the nephew of Bishop Frank Curtis Cummings:
Monday, June 8, 2009
Family Hour: 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Davenport & Harris Funeral Home, Inc.
301 Martin Luther King Jr. Dr., SW
Birmingham, AL 35211
Phone: (205) 252-2103
Fax: (205) 252-4932
Tuesday, June 9, 2009
Funeral Services: 12:00 Noon
St. Paul AME Church
300 4th Ct. North
Birmingham, AL 35204
Phone: (205) 251-9438
Fax: (205) 251-9599
The Rev. Albert Hyche, Presiding Elder
Birmingham-Florence District-North Alabama Conference
Bishop James L. Davis, Presiding Prelate
9th Episcopal District
Expressions of sympathy and condolences may be sent to:
Mrs. Ira G. Cummings and Family
C/o Davenport & Harris Funeral Home, Inc. (address listed above)
Or to:
Mrs. Ira G. Cummings and Family
C/o St. Paul AME Church
300 4th Ct. North
Birmingham, AL 35204
And to:
Bishop and Mrs. Frank Curtis Cummings & Family
4118 Paran Pines Drive
Atlanta, GA 30327
Phone: (404) 266-3540
Fax: (404) 266-0322
Email: FrankCummings@bellsouth.net
21. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
Service Arrangements & Bereavement Notice
We regret to announce the passing of the Reverend Benjamin S. Foust (Presiding Elder Retired); of the Western District, Western North Carolina Conference, Second Episcopal District; Bishop Adam Jefferson Richardson, Jr., Presiding Prelate.
Retired Presiding Elder Benjamin Foust passed today, Wednesday, June 3, 2009 at four o'clock in the afternoon.
Service Arrangements:
Reverend Benjamin S. Foust (Presiding Elder Retired); of the Western District, Western North Carolina Conference, Second Episcopal District; Bishop Adam Jefferson Richardson, Jr., Presiding Prelate.
Retired Presiding Elder Benjamin S. Foust passed on Wednesday, June 3, 2009.
Monday, June 8, 2009
Family Hour: 11:00 AM - 12:00 Noon
Funeral: 12:00 Noon
Mount Zion Baptist Church
1301 Alamance Church Road
Greensboro, NC 27406
(336) 273-7930 (office)
(336) 373-4224 (fax)
Professional services entrusted to:
Woodard Funeral Home
3200 N Ohenry Blvd
Greensboro, NC 27405
Phone: (336) 621-3461
FAX: (336) 621-3442
Expressions of sympathy and condolences may be sent to:
Mrs. Gertrude R. Foust & Family
4918 Edinborough Road
Greensboro, NC 27406
Phone: 336-676-9650
Or condolences may be emailed to: SKFoust0312@hotmail.com
22. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
We regret to announce the passing of Mr. Sam D. McClendon, husband of Mrs. Mary McClendon of 65 years and father of nine children including the Rev. Allen M. McClendon, pastor of Wayman Chapel AME Church, Lyles Station, Indiana.
Service arrangements for Mr. Sam D. McClendon are as follows:
Viewing:
Sunday: June 7, 2009: 6-8 pm
St. John AME Church,
Rev. William Gary, Pastor
1669 Columbia Avenue
Indianapolis, IN 46202
(317) 924-4044(office)
(317) 925-1001(fax)
Service: Monday, June 8, 2009
11:00 am
St. John AME Church
Expressions of sympathy and condolences may be sent to his wife:
Mrs. Mary McClendon
3445 North Temple
Indianapolis, IN 46218
317 545 2872
Email: mcm3445@yahoo.com
Funeral Home:
Lavenia House of Funerals
5811 E 38th St
Indianapolis, IN 46218
Office: (317) 547-5814
FAX: (317) 547-5098
23. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
We are saddened to share news of the untimely passing of the Reverend Micah Perry, pastor of the Richmond Circuit (located in Minter, Dallas County Alabama), Camden-Prattville District of the Alabama Annual Conference. Rev. Micah Perry, 39 years old, died as the result of a tragic automobile mishap on June 1, 2009, as reported by AP wire services.
The Rev. Micah Perry was the youngest son of the late Presiding Elder Ananias Perry, Sr. and Mrs. Vera Perry. In addition to his mother, Mrs. Vera Perry, Rev. Perry is survived by his spouse, Janice; sister Patricia, and brothers, the Reverend Isiah Perry, Sr., pastor of Greater Mallard Chapel AMEC, Autaugaville, AL; Mr. Al Perry, an officer of Brown Chapel AMEC (Selma, AL); Mr. Ananias Perry, Jr., member of Ward Chapel AMEC; Prattville, AL; the Reverend David Perry, pastor of an independent congregation in Selma, AL and his older brothers, Richard and Curtis Perry.
Service arrangements for Reverend Micah Perry:
The funeral has been held.
Condolences and expressions of sympathy may be sent to:
Mrs. Vera Perry and family
435 Co Rd #18
Selma, AL 36703
Phone: (334) 874-6463
Or condolences may be emailed to:
isiah2008@live.com
24. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
We regret to announce the passing of Brother Arthur Gregory, husband of the Reverend Josephine Mills-Gregory, Pastor of Sandy Point AME Church in Dimebox, Texas (Austin Capital District-Southwest Conference), the Rev. Dr. Lawrence R. Emanuel, Presiding Elder.
The following information has been shared regarding the Visitation, Family Hour and Homegoing Celebration:
Visitation:
Monday, June 8, 2009
12:00 P.M. - 7:00 P.M.
(Family hour: 6 P.M. - 7 P.M.
Lott Mortuary
Dallas, Texas
Homegoing Celebration:
Tuesday, June 9, 2009
10:00 A.M.
Lee Chapel AME Church
3231 Hatcher Street
Dallas, Texas 75215
The Rev. William O. Kelly, Pastor
Brother Arthur Gregory's final earthly care has been entrusted to:
Lott Mortuary
2434 Martin Luther King Blvd.
Dallas, Texas 75215
Phone: (214) 428-4686
Condolences may be sent to:
The Rev. Josephine Mills-Gregory
550 N. Montgomery Avenue, Apt. 17
Giddings, Texas 78942
Phone: (979) 542-2629 or (979) 716-8452
25. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
We regret to announce the passing of Mr. Dwayne Britton, brother-in-law, of the Reverend Jannetta Britton, Pastor of St. John AME Church-Dallas, Texas (Tyler District, North Texas Conference) and the brother of 1st gentleman Anderson Britton.
The funeral has been held.
Condolences may be sent to:
Brother Anderson Britton and the Rev. Jannetta Britton
816 Goldwood Drive
Dallas, Texas 75232
Home Phone: (972) 224-6870
Cell: (469)358-7561
26. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
We regret to announce the passing of Mrs. Imogene Sims Harris, the wife of the Reverend Norris Harris. The Rev. Norris Harris is the pastor of the Oglethorpe Circuit AME Churches in the Southwest Georgia Conference of the Sixth Episcopal District; Bishop William P. DeVeaux, Presiding Prelate.
Mrs. Imogene Sims Harris passed early Saturday, May 30, 2009. She is also the sister-in-law of Rev. Sherryl Sneed and Rev. Gerald Harris, pastors in the Southwest Georgia Conference.
The funeral has been held.
Condolences may be sent to:
The Reverend Norris Harris
180 West Rock Hill Drive
Americus, Georgia 31719
Or condolences may be emailed to: bone4753@aol.com
27. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
We regret to share news of the passing of Mrs. Lottie Black, mother of the Reverend Quinton Redd, pastor of Quinn Mission AME Church in Eagle Park, IL - South District, Illinois Conference, 4th Episcopal District; Bishop John R. Bryant, Senior Bishop and Presiding Prelate. Mrs. Lottie Black passed on Friday, May 29, 2009.
The funeral has been held.
Expressions of sympathy may be sent to:
The Rev. Quinton Redd
401 Mary Street
Eagle Park, IL 62060
Or condolences may be emailed to: stpaulamespfld@aol.com
28. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
We regret to inform you of the passing of Mrs. Erma Louise McCoy, who was summoned to claim her eternal reward on Sunday, May 24, 2009. She is the mother of first lady Erma Chambers and the mother-in-law of Rev. Samuel Chambers of Payne Chapel AME Church in Duquesne, Pennsylvania.
The funeral has been held.
Messages of Sympathy can be sent to:
The Rev. & Mrs. Samuel W. Chambers
603 Priscilla Avenue
Duquesne, PA 15110
(412) 466-6662 phone
(412) 466-1091 fax
Final Arrangements Entrusted to:
Robert A. Waters Funeral Home
2326 Jenny Lind Street
McKeesport, PA 15132
Phone: (412) 672-3551
FAX: (412) 233-4614
29. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
We regret to inform you of the passing of the Reverend H. W. Anthony, Retired Pastor of the Ward Chapel A.M.E. Church, 431 24th Street South, Bessemer, Alabama, West Alabama Conference, 9th Episcopal District, Bishop James L. Davis, Presiding Prelate.
Rev. H. W Anthony passed on Thursday morning, June 4, 2009. He was 83 years of age, and is survived by his wife of 62 years, Alberta N. Anthony and five children. His grandson is Licentiate Kelvin J. Anthony (9th Episcopal District).
Service arrangements for Reverend H. W. Anthony:
Funeral Services:
Wednesday June 10, 2009
1:00 PM
Allen Temple A.M.E. Church
917 22nd Street North
Bessemer, Alabama 35020
Phone: (205) 428-5961
Reverend Percy Jones, Pastor
Reverend Thomas L. Franklin, Pastor
Ward Chapel A.M.E. Church
Bessemer, Alabama
Professional services provided by:
Johnson Memorial Funeral Home
2601 Ninth Avenue North
Bessemer, Alabama 35021
Phone: (205) 425-2414
Fax: (205) 425-0585
Condolences may be sent to:
Mrs. Alberta N. Anthony & Family
3405 Avenue D
Birmingham, Alabama 35218
Or expressions of sympathy may be emailed to: kjanthony91@aol.com
30. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
We are saddened to inform you of the passing of the Rev. Dr. Eloise Averhart, who passed away on June 1st from a massive heart attack. She was an associate minister at Zion AME Church (Philadelphia Conference, South District) and Secretary of the AME Preachers Meeting of Philadelphia and Vicinity. The following information has been provided regarding funeral arrangements.
Viewing and Funeral Service: Sunday, June 14, 2009
Viewing: 4:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.
Funeral: 6:00 p.m.
Zion A.M.E. Church
1600 South 21st Street
Philadelphia, PA 19145
Phone: 215-468-6489
Fax: 215-68-9102
The Rev. Simon P. Bouie, Pastor
Viewing and Funeral Service - Monday, June 15, 2009
Viewing - 9:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m.
Funeral - 10:00 a.m.
Greater Allen Cathedral AME Church
110-31 Merrick Blvd
Jamaica, NY 11433
Phone: 718-209-4600
Fax: 718-526-1311
The Rev. Floyd H. Flake, Pastor
Services entrusted to:
Congleton Funeral Home
67 W. Logan Street
Philadelphia, PA
Phone: 215-849-7327
Fax: 215-849-4782
Condolences may be sent to her brother:
Mr. James Green
79 Carlton Street
East Orange, NJ 07017
Or
Zion AME Church (see address above)
31. 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
32. 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
