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
BREAKING NEWS: Paul Quinn loses Accreditation.
1. EDITORIAL – THE REPORTS OF THE COMMISSIONS OF THE AME CHURCH SHOULD BE READ BY ALL:
Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III
The 20th Editor of The Christian Recorder
Editor’s Note: A report of the Investiture of Bishop Carolyn Tyler Guidry will be reported in the next issue of The Christian Recorder Online.
I have decided to share the highlights of the Commission on Publications because all of the Commission Reports are important and should be shared, otherwise what we do at the General Board Meeting will stay within the membership of the General Board. In the spirit of transparency, everyone should to be able to read what went on at the General Board Meeting, a Connectional Meeting of the African Methodist Episcopal Church.
The Editor is inviting all Commissions to immediately send the highlights of their Commission meeting so that it can be published in The Christian Recorder and in that way; those who were unable to attend the General Board Meeting can feel that they are a part of what went on at the General Board Meeting.
Perhaps this will be a “learning moment” for those reading the Commission on Publications report. The Commission on Publications report was prepared by Ms. Latrellis O. Dent.
The General Board Meeting of the African Methodist Episcopal Church met on June 22-24, 2009 at the Sheraton Hotel in New Orleans, Louisiana.
The Commissions of the African Methodist Episcopal Church met in separate sessions on Tuesday, June 23rd and the Commission reports were presented to the full session of the General Board on Wednesday, June 24, 2009.
Bishop William P. DeVeaux is the Chair of the General Board. Bishop Carolyn Tyler Guidry was the Host Bishop and is the President of the Council of Bishops. Bishop Theodore Larry Kirkland is the 1st Vice President of the General Board. Bishop John Richard Bryant is the Senior Bishop of the African Methodist Episcopal Church.
The Commission on Publications
The Right Reverend Richard F. Norris is the Chair of the Commission on Publications.
The General Officers who are members of the Commission on Publications are, Dr. Johnny Barbour, Jr., Secretary-Treasurer, Sunday School Union, Dr. Dennis Dickerson, Historiographer/Director of Research & Scholarship and the Editor of The A.M.E. Church Review; and Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor, III, Editor, The Christian Recorder. The Rev. Henry A. Belin III is the Vice-Chairperson and the Ms. Latrellis O. Dent is the Secretary.
The General Officers and the Departments of the African Methodist Episcopal Church are amenable and accountable to the General Board. Another way of explaining the relationship of the General Officers to the General Board is that the “General Officers relationship to the General Board is as a pastor’s relationship is to the Annual Conference. The General Board is where General Officers give their reports and are on the “hot seat.” As pastors who give a sigh of relief after reading their Annual Conference Reports, General Officers offer sighs of relief after giving their reports and when their reports have been voted on and passed by the members of the General Board.
The General Board is made up of the Executive Committee, the Commission on Statistics and Finance, the Commission on Publications, the Commission on Church Growth and Development, the Commission on Annuity Investments and insurance, the Commission on Christian Education, the Commission on Seminaries, universities, Colleges and Schools, the Commission on Women in Ministry, Commission on Social Action, the Commission on Lay Organization, the Commission on Global Witness and Ministry, the Commission on Economic Development, the Commission on Chaplains, the Commission on Global Development, the Commission on Health, and the Commission on Ministry and Recruitment. Each Commission has members from every Episcopal District.
The meeting was called to order by Bishop Richard F. Norris; Dr. Johnny Barbour led in the devotional and called on the Rev. Marcellus Norris gave the prayer.
Bishop Norris greeted the members of the Publications Commission and acknowledgements the leadership the Commission; Dr. Johnny Barbour, Dr. Dennis C. Dickerson and Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III.
The Reports of all of the General Officers were published in a Combined Report that was available to all members of the General Board. Copies of the Combined General Officers may be ordered from the AMEC Sunday School Union http://amecpublishinghouse.com.
Dr. Johnny Barbour, Jr., Secretary-Treasurer, Sunday School Union
The recommendations of the AMEC Sunday School Union are as follows:
- That all entities of the AME Church be encouraged to order and use the AME literature and supplies from the AMEC Sunday School Union.
- That the usage of the AMEC Trademark/Logo should not be used without permission. (An application for Permission to Use is included in the Annual Report).The shield with the anvil, the cross, and the lettering African Methodist Episcopal is the registered service trademark of the African Methodist Episcopal Church (AMEC). This trademark cannot be used for commercial purposes. Any permission to use this trademark must be approved by the AMEC Sunday School Union. Every usage of the service mark must maintain the accuracy of the symbol in its design, proportion and style. Please refer to application for permission. All applications must be submitted to Dr. Johnny Barbour, Jr., Secretary-Treasurer, Sunday School Union, 500 8th Avenue, South, Suite 200, Nashville, Tennessee 37203.
Recommendation from the floor:
- That all Official Board members and new members, following the completion of new members classes, be encouraged to purchase a current copy of The Book of Discipline of the African Methodist Episcopal Church – 2008.
There was also a request to include the Board of Examiners as another part of the requirement for purchasing a current copy of The Book of Discipline of the African Methodist Episcopal Church – 2008. A suggestion was made by Bishop Norris that this body send a Letter of Recommendation to the Bishops of the church to encourage this requirement.
Dr. Calvin Sydnor, Editor of The Christian Recorder
Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor began his report by acknowledging the presence of Dr. Rickey Spain and Dr. Robert Reid, retired Editors of The Christian Recorder.
Recommendations of The Christian Recorder:
- That the Church work for a cultural shift from the notion of pastors ordering The Christian Recorder and one other periodical on their Annual Conference Reports and that encouragement for everyone to subscribe to all of the periodicals of the AME Church
- That the Episcopal leadership aggressively pushes for more members of the African Methodist Episcopal Church to subscribe to The Christian Recorder and the other AME Church periodicals.
- That the Episcopal leadership aggressively requires every person involved in ministry and all applicants for ministry (itinerant elder, local elder, local deacon, licentiate, exhorter, deaconess) be required to subscribe to The Christian Recorder.
- That the Episcopal leadership aggressively pushes for stewards, trustees and other officers who serve in leadership positions in the local church to subscribe to The Christian Recorder
- That all academic institutions of the African Methodist Episcopal Church subscribe to, and have copies of The Christian Recorder in their libraries and that that local churches subscribe to The Christian Recorder and make copies available to its members who may not have subscribed to The Christian Recorder.
- That the African Methodist Episcopal Church be intentional in eradicating the “digital divide” by encouraging all local churches in the African Methodist Episcopal Church to purchase and have functioning Internet access.
Dr. Dennis Dickerson, Historiographer/Director of Research & Scholarship and the Editor of AME Review
Dr. Dickerson reported that The A.M.E. Church Review is up to date with publication and referred to his report with a correction that the January-March 2009 issue has been published.
The recommendation from Dr. Dickerson:
- That the General Board endorse the project proposal that the Historiographer / Executive Director of the Department of Research and Scholarship has presented for the Bicentennial AME Encyclopedia.
A motion to receive this report with high accommodations was accepted by the body.
Bishop Norris in closing stated that in 2010 we will observe the 250th birthday of Richard Allen and plans have been implemented to recognize our founding father, Bishop Richard Allen.
The AMEC Sunday School Union has a website available which will allow persons to order literature and to subscribe to the AME periodicals.
The Rev. Henry Belin gave a dismissal prayer and the meeting of the Publication Commission was adjourned.
Members:
The Rev. Henry A. Belin (1)*
Mrs. Valerie Gary Bell (2)*
Mr. Bert Ogden (3)*
The Rev. Dr. Barbara A. Wilson (4)*
The Rev. J. Edgar Boyd (5)*
Ms. Latrellis Dent (6)*
The Rev. Joseph Darby (7)*
The Rev. Lester Shaw (8)*
Mr. Shawntavious Redding (9)
The Rev. Roderick Dawson (10)*
Mr. Reginald McGill (11)*
The Rev. James Thomas (12)*
The Rev. Walter W. Reid, Jr. (13)*
Dr. Opral Mason Benson (14)
Mr. Mziwekhaya Nkumbi (15)
Ms. Neila Robinson Ingram (16)
The Rev. Cosmos Wakunguma (17)*
Mr. Americo Mazuze (18)
Ms. T. Bokwa (19)
Mr. Clemence Jele (20)
At Large Members:
The Rev. Silvester Beaman*
The Rev. Harold Mayberry*
* Indicates Member Present
2. READER RESPONSE TO EDITORIAL AND OTHER ISSUES:
- To the Editor:
RE: Article, "Let’s Find a Better Way" by *Dr. Jamye Coleman Williams
I would like to respond to the editorial by Dr. Jamye Coleman Williams entitled, “Let’s Find A Better Way.”
First, I am mindful and respectful of Dr. Williams’ insights as a retired General Officer and as a pioneer in bringing diversity to the leadership of the AME Church. I do not have such longevity in the AME Church or nearly her level of experience and exposure. I married an AME woman 30 years ago and fell in love with the AME Church. I became a member in 1979 and was ordained as an itinerant elder in 1995. I have been a pastor since that time. I am also a licensed attorney and teach college level government and public policy. I have, however, been a voting delegate at the last three General Conferences.
While there is much merit to reviewing the manner in which we select AME Bishops, I am uneasy about the idea of changing the requirements for eligibility to seek and hold the office to include certain accomplishments such as, years of experience as a pastor, or having held certain offices at the connectional level. Such gate-keeping criteria sometimes do a better job of keeping good people out of office than they do of ensuring the selection of the best people called by God to hold an office. The only criteria for eligibility to run for President of the United States (Article II, Section 1., of the U.S. Constitution) is to be 35 years old and a natural born citizen. After that, the people and God decide.
It may be that some improvements could be made to the AME election process. However, I am extremely uncomfortable with changing the eligibility requirements to seek the Office of Bishop.
The Reverend O. Jerome Green
Pastor,
Gaines Chapel AME Church
Anniston, Alabama
- To the Editor:
RE: Article, "Let’s Find a Better Way" by *Dr. Jamye Coleman Williams
Thank you for continuing to challenge our thinking and create "growth producing discomfort with the status quo” by publishing very thought-provoking articles.
I find the reflections of Dr. Jayme Coleman Williams to be worthy of discussion widely in African Methodism. What do we really require of candidates for Episcopal service that directly relates to what we will expect of them as Chief Pastor, should they be elected? Do we require earnest evaluation of the candidate, by the candidate or anyone else?
As I reflect on these questions, I am forced to acknowledge that the disconnect between job expectations and qualifications goes beyond the election of bishops. Many positions of leadership in African Methodism are described principally by its authority rather than qualification for the office. Some 20+ years ago the pastor of my local church challenged the officers to "mold the office rather than simply hold a spot". Since that time, I have felt compelled to make a difference whenever I have prayerfully accepted any role of service/leadership. Ask yourself, if the AME Church closed its doors, what "gaps" would be created; which constituencies would suffer? In other words, who would miss our services?
This great church's legacy hangs in the balance and during our watch, we are charged to leave this world better than we found it. Since we know that the Black Church is the most viable agent of change for the people who live in our communities, worship in our midst, and need an advocate, the AME Church must take seriously its choice of leadership who will take us to new heights.
The next CONVO might be the arena to convene earnest dialogue stimulated by Dr. Coleman Williams challenge to us. Be well!
SIStah "Jackie" Dupont-Walker
- To the Editor:
As a child I grew up United Methodist, but as an adult I've come to appreciate African Methodism. I am both inspired and encouraged by the thoughts expressed by both Dr. Jamye Coleman Williams and Dr. Clement Fugh.
Daphney Gwynn
3. SAVING OUR EDUCATIONAL EMPHASIS:
Bishop E. Earl McCloud, Jr.
The Higher Education Institutions associated with the African Methodist Episcopal Church are struggling beneath overbearing financial obligations. Some have lost their academic accreditation and this week we have learned that Paul Quinn College has lost its accreditation. The concerns are many, including little or no endowment funds which are essential to the future of Colleges and Universities. Others are marred under debt obligations that put their future in doubt. Still others are on the brink of falling into receivership.
It is important to point out that philanthropic giving in this country has decreased considerably for a number of reasons. The Bernie Madoffs and Allen Stanfords of the world have misused and misappropriated funds that have been entrusted to their care. Persons within our own institution have not always made the best decisions for our academic institutions.
It is time now for the people of the AME Church to say aloud that moving to consolidate the educational enterprises of the AME Church is not negative, but necessary. Consider a regional approach.
There are some reasonable but difficult choices that should be considered by the Board of Trustees/Directors of the Institutions currently operating under the banner of the AME Church.
• First, because the AME Church underfunds the enterprises, consolidation of funds to support a single institution or something else should be considered.
• Second, some other format of education empowerment should be considered by the Church. For example, many of the Churches within the denomination are serving students effectively in schools that are below the college level.
• Third, strong consideration should be given to hiring a fund development officer who would work to significantly develop the giving programs of the AME Church and its partners.
• Finally, a consolidated effort has a better chance of success than the models that are currently being used. Find the best campus and pour all our support into that campus. Develop another campus into a headquarters for the AME Church and develop a retirement community on that campus. Use the Richard Allen school model developed in Dayton, Ohio on other campuses in an effort to re-make ourselves and demonstrate our re-aligned educational interest.
• Consider Trade Schools and/or other vocational training schools
• The Commission Chair should call College/University Presidents together for the purpose of making appropriate proposals to the AME Church soon.
• The time is now. Everyday matters.
4. “MOSES AND JOSHUA”: DISCUSSING YOUNG ADULTS IN THE AME CHURCH:
John Thomas III
Over the past few months, I have been privileged to write on a wide-range of topics pertinent to the growth and livelihood of African Methodism. A series of conversations over the past few weeks laid upon my heart the desire to write a something on the position of “Young Adults” in our Zion. I begin with a recent story from the election campaign for offices in the Connectional Lay Organization (CLO). At a forum sponsored by an Episcopal District, one of the candidates was asked the following: “How will you incorporate a youthful perspective into the work of your office?” After a brief pause, the candidate coolly replied: “I believe that young people should pay their dues and not expect to jump ahead.”
This reply, while disconcerting, is by no means surprising. The AME Church maintains ambivalent relationship with Young Adults. On the one hand, we know that the 18-40 group is essential not only to our future but also the present. The absence of their presence in our pews and pulpits is a concern for many Bishops and senior lay leaders. More than a few seasoned members, however, chafe when younger persons attempt to assert authority as laity or clergy. Several younger ministers have told me that they avoid telling congregations their ages for fear that people will stop seeing them as “the pastor” and instead see them as “son” or “granddaughter”. I also have seen instances where pastors, in order to appease older members of a church, will appoint a college-educated professional as a “Junior” Steward or Trustee. This act not only contravenes the purpose of the position—which was to mentor youth UNDER age 18—but quite frankly is insulting to a tithing and dutiful member who may run a multi-million dollar business but will not be allowed a position of true responsibility because they have not “paid their dues”. The AME Church needs Young Adults, but does not what to do with them.
As much as we would like to think that the “Young Adult” problem is a creature of the “Hip-Hop” or “Millennium” generations, history tells us otherwise. The following quote from Diane Griffin written in 1971 for Bishop Gomez’s Polity of the AME Church is telling: “In the Church there are no ‘second class’ members, but sometimes the youth of the Church are given this impression…Young people must be given more than token responsibilities…It is incumbent upon us all to realize that this generation has been exposed to more than any other generation past.” Even though these words are almost forty years old, Griffin could easily be describing the situation of Young Adults today. The “Youth Revolution” achieved much in terms of representation for Young Adults in the various levels of the Connection. After a tense exchange between Young Adult delegates and the CLO Budget committee over program funding, one leader of the “Youth Revolution” commented: “It seems that they are still fighting the same battles that we were over thirty years ago.”
So, what do we do about the “Young Adult” problem? Churches (especially Black mainline denominations) have a tendency to be traditionalist. Even the spread of Neo-Pentecostalism in our churches was not enough to stem the non-denominational tide. The AME Church must realize, first, that it will take more than token positions on Boards, Committees and Auxiliaries to staunch the Young Adult hemorrhage. Additionally, the problem is bigger than any one Connectional organization (such as RAYAC) can handle. Real engagement is needed with “Young Adults” at the highest levels of the Church in order to develop a Connectional strategy for maintaining and attracting Young Adults. As a Connection, the AME Church must ask itself: “What happens after the YPD?” We do an impeccable job of training people to “grow, glow, and go for Christ”…in someone else’s church. The Council of Bishops can exercise leadership by developing an action plan including Episcopal District dialogues as well as a Connectional Young Adult Summit before the end of the 2008-2012 quadrennium. Lessons can be learned especially from Districts 14-20 where the “Young Adult” problem in many cases is finding enough seats for a service.
The WMS and the Lay Organization have taken important steps to working on Young Adult inclusion by creating specialized offices for Young Adults. These positions, however, should be seen as “necessary evils” and not permanent solutions. It is only through true intergenerational leadership that these organizations will reach their potential. While the “dues paying” metaphor might resonate with older members, we tend to forget that our noble founder Richard Allen was only 27 when he walked out of Old St. George’s. It is my fervent hope that more offices in the Connectional auxiliaries at all levels will go to younger members. I also respectfully offer that our conceptualization of the “Young Adult” category itself is misleading. The needs of a 22 year-old single recent college graduate will be different from a 36 year-old married lawyer and mother of two. A more nuanced approach will be needed to address what is a vast and amorphous group.
I remain hopeful that the Connectional AME Church will retool itself and seriously engage itself in addressing our “generation gap”. The discussion in the AME Church between the “Moses” and “Joshua” generations mirrors the discussion in the African-American community at large between the “Jackson” and “Obama” generations. In closing, I remind us that the relationship between Moses and Joshua was not characterized by conflict, but by mutual respect and trust. As twilight dimmed on the leadership of Moses, he took Joshua in front of the people of Israel to not only encourage him but to publically affirm his faith in his successor (Deuteronomy 31). Instead of admonishing Young Adults who wish to exercise leadership and responsibility “before their time”, the “Moses generation” would do well to remember the example of its namesake and offer encouragement, mentorship and guidance to the “Joshuas” waiting in the wings.
John Thomas III is a Ph.D. Student, Department of Political Science, University of Chicago
jthomas3@uchicago.edu
5. A SENSE OF PAST AND FUTURE: GETTING OUT OF OUR VACUUMS:
The Reverend Dr. Monica C. Jones
Ecclesiastes 3:1 states that there is a time and a season for everything we do under the heavens; moreover, in the 11th verse, the wisdom book tells us that God has put a sense of past and future in our minds.
When examining this text more closely, I see confirmation for the advice I heard a senior lay leader in my church offer during a new member presentation. The speaker cautioned the listeners that in order for them to really appreciate the AME Church, they would need to get out into the church community and become “visible” at the various conference levels.
I could not agree more. Too many times, we become comfortable in our own cocoons where life if predictable and peaceful, ignoring the lives of our brothers and sisters who have taken different paths. Can we not interact with each other more expansively? Cannot more women actively support the activities of men who are part of Sons of Allen? Cannot the Sons attend Women’s Missionary Society services as a body? When a district or conference lay meeting is held, are the pastors from the churches in attendance? Do preachers and lay go to meetings outside their own annual conferences? Do young members of a congregation make plans to go to Founders Day services and workshops and not just YPD events? Do officers plan to go to YPD and youth meetings? Is Christian Education (CE) ministry supported and encouraged in the congregation, and do non-educators attend CE seminars and conferences?
Obviously, everyone cannot go to every activity. Nevertheless, an intentional effort to plan for participation in at least one meeting that is occurring outside the local church or a local area of interest will pay off. If it is not possible to go to long distance meetings, start within the church. Each lay organization can share with other groups and send members in an exchange fashion to the other’s activity.
For example, a male usher board member can be invited to participate at a female chorus anniversary and vice versa. Ten-year olds can participate at a retired officer’s banquet. There is no end to what a body of believers can do if everyone is of one mind and one purpose!
As we have a sense of our past and look to the future, we cannot be prepared if we do not experience life and ministry outside of our own doors. It will take an organized effort. Going away to meetings requires money, and money is tight. Yet, to not go is to miss an opportunity to learn about the way our church does things.
The First Steps
Once a church or church member has decided that networking and conference attendance is an important priority, plans can be made just as with anything else. A good first step would be to look at the local, connectional and Episcopal calendars in advance. Select a meeting to attend, and plan ahead to set aside funds. Officers and organizational leaders can decide to make this kind of effort a part of their yearly budget. Young people can include an activity outside their normal schedule and fund raise for it. Tithing churches may find that a one time sacrificial tithe from each ministry may afford someone an opportunity to travel.
Next, find people who are interested in participating. A senior who has never traveled may find it a blessing to go to a lay meeting. A gifted teenager may want to attend a Christian Education or Writer’s Guild workshop. Try to send intergenerational representatives if possible in order to capitalize on the unique opportunity for growth that collaboration between wisdom and youth brings.
By attending the General Board Meeting / Bishops’ Council to witness the meetings and worship services in New Orleans, I am enhancing my knowledge base as an Episcopal officer in Women in Ministry and as an AME member. I had no official reason to attend, but I did have an ethical one. The intentional and unintentional lessons I will take home with me from the experience will be invaluable. It is a sacrifice, but as most godly Black folks tend to do, I pray for God to make a way and then watch God come through.
A Final Thought
Staying in our personal vacuums and not sharing who we are and what we do with others, does not allow God to work through us in order to improve our family of faith. For everything there is a season. Perhaps now is our season to grow. Now is our season to discover new things while God does new things in us. We can learn from the past while impacting the future if we but step out of our comfort zones and tread upon new paths.
Dr. Jones is worship leader for WIM / 6th Episcopal District and is on the ministerial staff at Big Bethel in Atlanta
6. U.S. HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVE BARBARA LEE STATEMENT ON VOTING RIGHTS RULING MONDAY, JUNE 22, 2009:
Washington D.C. – Rep. Barbara Lee (D-CA), Chairwoman of the Congressional Black Caucus released the following statement today after the U.S. Supreme Court upheld a central provision of Voting Rights Act:
“By an overwhelming 8 to 1 majority the Supreme Court has rejected an attempt to turn the clock back on civil rights and acknowledged Congress’s authority to protect the right to vote.
“With the exception of Justice Clarence Thomas, the Justices of the Supreme Court understand the importance of the Voting Rights Act and the progress this country has made since 1964.
“As a result of today’s ruling, the VRA and its ‘preclearance’ provision remain effective tools in this nation’s ongoing struggle to guarantee an equal vote to all, regardless of race.”
Editor's Note: Clarence Thomas again
7. EVENING OF PRAYER FOR HIV/AIDS AWARENESS:
*The Rev. Teresa Lynn Rushdan
March 5, 2009 seemed like a typical Friday evening about the city of Trenton, the weather was fair, and the streets were yet damp from an earlier mist of rain. Cars moved swiftly through the streets. It was a typical day, but something big was happening.
Something life shaping and life transforming was happening and it was happening at The Greater Mt. Zion AME Church of Trenton, New Jersey. The event was an evening of prayer for those who have been stricken and or affected by HIV/AIDS.
On a street that is enriched by a thriving Christian Ministry and yet devastated by drugs, violence and disease, the New Jersey Human Development Corporation confronted statistics, polls, and negative stereotypes by placing the issue of HIV/AIDS in the face of the public in order to dispel the travesties, stigmas, and dogma that encircle those that are sick, families that are torn and communities that are impacted by a virus that has is often ignored and at times forgotten.
For the moment HIV/AIDS is here, but so is God. The church filled on that Friday evening was filled with those from every background, filled with those who unashamedly called on God, and it was clear that everyone was the same.
Everyone could connect because HIV/AIDS does not discriminate; it finds its way into the lives of people from every socio-economic, racial, ethnic, religious background. Everyone could connect because HIV/AIDS effects and affects the rich, the lost, the least, the lost, the forgotten and the privileged.
So while the rain drizzled, many courageously shared their stories, stories of success, and stories of triumph in the midst of personal struggle. Others such as Rev. Myrtle Daniels elaborated as to the responsibility of the community and church to do its part and to never neglect a friend, sister or brother in need for we are “all God’s children”.
A beautiful liturgical dance was done by Ms. Diana Rogers (member of Mt. Zion A.M.E. Church, Trenton) to the strains of Say a Prayer by Donald Lawrence. With every graceful move the church was inspired to simply pray. Her spirit, said pray, the music said pray and pray is what they did.
Attending were the New Jersey Human Development Corporation’s Rev. J. Stanley Justice, CEO (he also is the pastor of Greater Mt. Zion A.M.E. Church, Trenton) Rev. Vernard Leak, CFO (also Presiding Elder of the A.M.E Philadelphia District), Mrs. Wimphrey Jenkins, Chairperson of the NJHDC Board of Directors, Rev. John R. Taylor Pastor, pastor of Friendship Baptist Church, Trenton Ms. Joy Brooks, Roslyn Council who is a member of the Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, committed to public service in the Mercer County Area, and many more.
On a typical Friday, God moved tremendously and blessed His children with hope for a stronger tomorrow.
*The Rev. Teresa Lynn Rushdan is the N.J. Conference Reporter and Press Coordinator, New Jersey Human Development Corporation
8. BE READY TO WALK AWAY----COPING WITH REJECTION AND ABUSE:
*The Rev. N.T. Pitts
It is without a doubt that each, and all, of us want to be accepted and wanted by somebody. People do all manner of things so that they may be accepted and wanted. Children do some wild and odd things. Some even fail in school on purpose so that they may be accepted and belong.
Rejection is a terrible thing and it sometimes leads to violence and murder.
There is an old adage I have often heard, and that is, “There is somebody for everybody. But some find it difficult to find that someone who wants us. And when we find that someone that we think we want, they may not want us. And that is where the trouble begins. Another expression I have heard is, “There are other fish in the sea.” But, I am afraid that some of us may use the wrong bait to catch the fish we desire.
Too many marriages are destroyed and too many lives are affected and even lost because they have become victims of rejection. The sad thing about it all is, innocent children become victims caught in the web of rejection; and some are brutally murdered.
Many women are caught in an abusive relationship and don’t quite know how to get out of it. I can’t understand how anyone could abuse the one they claim to love.
This article is entitled Walk away, but I am sure that there are those who would say “Easier said than done.”
There is no doubt; the record will show that men take rejection the hardest. It is because their masculinity is challenged and their ego is deflated. Men commit violent acts more often than women when it comes to rejection. However, women are more likely to commit suicide, or at least, attempt suicide in order to gain attention and sympathy.
Some years ago when I was in my teens, I heard an elderly gentleman say, “Don’t ever marry anybody you love, marry somebody who loves you.” I spent years trying to analyze that statement. I still don’t know the logic of what he said. But now I have a strong idea what he was trying to infer.
What I don’t understand is why do people try to force themselves upon those who do not want them? What is it that makes a person say, “If I can’t have you, nobody else will”? That statement is made mostly by men, with an ego problem; and sometimes woman make the statement too. I don’t mean to be repetitive but I can’t help but feel a deep sense of sympathy for the children caught in this selfish trap.
What is it that prevents them from “walking away”?
The worse mistake some women make when their marriage seems to be crumbling and they want to leave; is they threaten to leave just to get some kind of positive response from their spouse. They even threaten to take the children, which is a dangerous thing to say. If you want out, don’t talk about what you are going to do, do it. In the world of boxing, the advice given to boxers is, “Don’t telegraph your punches.” In other words, don’t let your opponent know when you are going to throw a punch, and where.
When you threaten to leave it hardly ever brings any positive responses. When you arrive at the conclusion that your relationship is finished and you decide to leave; if you are going to leave, leave. Just walk away.
Why do women stay in an abusive relationship? I really don’t know.
Some claim they stay because of the children. But that does not hold water. Children know when something is not going right. You can’t fool children. You cannot make anyone love you. And you should not beg someone to love you, if you do, you diminish your humanity.
If, and when you make up your mind that it is time to leave, don’t talk about it; just walk away quietly, but make sure that you are financially and emotionally ready.
Some years ago I was counseling a young woman who was having a terrible time with her husband. While we were talking she opened her big purse, dug deep into a hidden pocket and took out a roll of bills. She then asked me, “Pastor, do you know what this is?” I told her that it looked like a roll of money. She responded, “That’s my ‘Go-to-Hell money’ and when I get enough of that man’s mess I am going to tell him to “Go to Hell, and I am going to leave.”
I relate this little experience to emphasize the importance of readiness to walk away. You may not have any “go-to-Hell” money but you better have something. I must remind you that not all marriages are made in heaven.
Some years ago during the early fifties a man and his wife and son were at a train depot and had no place to stay. Their luggage was two old suitcases tied up with rope and they were eating cheese and vanilla wafers out of a paper bag. The young boy sat on one of the suitcases crying because they had no place to stay. The Pullman Porter said to the boy, “Son don’t worry we will find you a home.” The boy replied, “We got a home, we need a place to live.”
When I think about that incident, there is no doubt that we have some find beautiful houses living behind high walls and security fences, but far too many broken and dysfunctional homes. We have luxury, but no love. We have our diamonds, but no discipline.
We have security devices, but we are not safe. We have the latest fashion, but no faith. We have parties, but we have no purposes.
When is it enough?
There is a secular song entitled “It only hurts for a little while.” Walking away may hurt for a little while but you can make it for the sake of your children and yourself.
I say to those abusive spouses, “Pick on somebody your size.”
*The Rev. N.T. Pitts is a retired pastor who lives in Eatonville, Florida
9. CLERGY FAMILY CONGRATULATORY MESSAGE:
Congratulations to Reverend Marcus A. Cylar, pastor of Tanner-Price Memorial AME Church, in Windsor, Ontario for receiving his Master of Divinity Degree from Ashland Theological Seminary. Pastor Marcus A. Cylar is the son-in-law of the Rev. Deborah Smith-Satterwhite, pastor of New St. John AME Church-Dearborn, Michigan; the son of Mr., Ken Cylar and the late Sadie Cylar; and the husband of Evangelist Chariece J. Cylar. Pastor Marcus is scheduled to be ordained an Itinerant Elder in August 2009 at the Annual Conference.
“Pastor Marcus we are so proud of you. Stay humble and bold about your walk with our Savior Jesus Christ and continue to be God's Mentor for our Young People and Young Men.”
Submitted by:
The Rev. Deborah Smith-Satterwhite, pastor
New St. John AME Church-Dearborn, Michigan
Congratulatory email can be sent to: charieces@yahoo.com
10. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
We share with regret news of the passing of Robert R. Shaw, Sr., father of the Reverend Robert R. Shaw, II, pastor of St. John AME Church, St. Louis, Missouri and father-in-law of the Reverend Ann Clara Champion Shaw, daughter of the late Dr. George Champion, retired General Officer.
The funeral has been held.
Expressions of sympathy may be sent to:
The Rev. Robert and the Rev. Ann Shaw in care of Watkins Brothers Memorial Chapel
Or to:
The Rev. Robert and the Rev. Ann Shaw
St. John AME Church
1908 N. Kings Highway
St. Louis, MO 63113
Phone: 314-361-8236
Or condolences may be emailed to The Rev. Robert R. Shaw II: pastor_rob3@yahoo.com
11. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
We regret to share news of the passing of the Reverend Edward L. Butler, pastor of Quinn Memorial A.M.E. Church, Steubenville, Ohio.
Service Arrangements for the Reverend Edward Butler:
The funeral has been held.
Expressions of sympathy and condolences may be sent his wife:
Mrs. Merylyn Butler
302 Todd Street
Aliquippa, PA 15001
Phone: 724-378-0778
Email: Auntmns@yahoo.com
12. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
We regret to share news of the passing of Mrs. Gloria Wright, the mother of the Reverend Lance Shelton, pastor of Friendship AME Church in Pulaski, Tennessee.
Mrs. Gloria Wright passed on Tuesday, June 23, 2009.
The funeral has been held.
Condolences may be sent to:
The Reverend Lance Shelton, Pastor
Friendship AME Church
348 Friendship Road / P. O. Box 294
Pulaski, TN 38478
Phone: 931-424-5454
Cell Phone: 931-247-0741
Or expressions of sympathy may be emailed to:
The Reverend Lance Shelton: lanceshelton@charter.net
13. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
It is with sadness that we announce the death of Mrs. Mattie Hunter, the mother of the Reverend Sarah E. Spaulding, local elder at the Historic Saint Paul AME Church in Lexington, Kentucky where the Reverend Troy I. Thomas is the Pastor. Mrs. Mattie J. Hunter, age 98, passed on Monday, June 22, 2009.
At her passing Mrs. Hunter was the oldest member of Saint Paul AME Church in Versailles, Kentucky, where the Reverend James E. "Book" Smith is the Pastor.
The funeral has been held.
Expressions of sympathy and condolences may be emailed to:
Meme221450@wmconnect.com (The Reverend Sarah E. Spaulding)
14. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
We share with regret news of the passing of the Reverend William Earl Ewing, pastor of Avery Chapel AME Church in Brookhaven, Mississippi; Brookhaven-Hattiesburg District, South Mississippi Annual Conference; Rev. Joseph E. Young, Presiding Elder, Bishop Carolyn Tyler Guidry, Presiding Prelate, 8th Episcopal District.
Service arrangements for the Reverend William Earl Ewing:
Funeral:
Tuesday, June 30, 2009
12:00 Noon
Greater Powell Chapel AME Church
865 Springhill Road
Grenada, MS 38901
Phone: 662-226-3368
Rev. Moses Simms, Pastor
Bishop Carolyn Tyler Guidry, Eulogist
Professional services are entrusted to:
Clark-Williams Funeral Home
602 Cherry Street
Grenada, MS 38901
Phone: (662) 226-3451
Fax: (662) 226-3404
Condolences and expressions of sympathy may be sent to his wife and family:
The Rev. Chenelle Ewing and Family
125 ML King Jr. Avenue
Brookhaven, MS 39601
Phone: 601-835-1929
Cell: 601-754-7859
Expressions of sympathy may be emailed to:
audreanaewing@yahoo.com
15. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
We regret to announce the passing of the Reverend Phillip Mixon, a retired pastor in the Manning District, Central South Carolina Annual Conference of the 7TH Episcopal District. Rev. Mixon entered into eternal rest on Thursday, June 18, 2009.
The funeral has been held.
The family of Rev. Phillip Mixon
C/o St. John AME Church
520 S. Main Street
Bishopville, SC 29010
16. 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
Email: Amespouses1@bellsouth.net
Phone: (615) 837-9736
Voice Mail: (615) 833-6936
Fax: (615) 833-3781
Cell: (615) 403-7751
17. 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
