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 - NEWS BREAKS AND BREAKING NEWS - POLICY AND HISTORY:
Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III
The 20th Editor of The Christian Recorder
The last week in June and the first week of July was a time of high profile deaths to include actress Farrah Fawcett, singer Michael Jackson, and former NFL quarterback, Steve McNair. Fawcett died after a three year battle with anal cancer. The first news accounts reported Michael Jackson died as a result of a cardiac arrest. The event surrounding Steve McNair’s death was more tragic because his death was not caused by a medical problem such as cancer or heart problems. His tragedy was caused by gunshots and by being in the wrong place at the wrong time; and that’s what made his death tragic.
I sent out a breaking news message about Steve McNair and several days later I received the following email concerning the breaking news message.
“I have a question. What is the editorial policy for TCR pertaining to "Breaking News"? I consider your timely and efficient updates a valued service for our digital community but I'm a bit puzzled about inclusion of tragic news events like the death of Steve ‘Air’ McNair. I am a football fan so I have followed McNair since his prolific Quarter Back career at both Alcorn State University and the, Houston Oilers, the Tennessee Titans and the Baltimore Ravens. What I don't quite grasp is how his death equates to "AME News"? Was McNair a member of an AME Church in the 13th District or his native state of Mississippi? Yes, we should pray for the McNair Family but shouldn't we also be sending up our "timber" in behalf of the family of the woman who was slain? The recent update about our CFO Richard Lewis handling the funeral arrangements makes sense to include as AME newsworthy. Recent events like the updates of the General Board Meeting, fire at Bethel AME in Baltimore and the renovation appeal at Metropolitan AME in DC are all "no-brainer" breaking news events…”
It was a great question and I appreciated the opportunity it gave for me to respond about the editorial policy for the TCR.
“The short answer: The Editor makes the decision about News Breaks and Breaking News. But, having said that, I do not frivolously make determinations about what constitutes a News Break or Breaking News. The mission of The Christian Recorder has been to disseminate religious as well as secular news. Appended below are several paragraphs taken from the History of TCR:
“The Christian Recorder focused on religious news, but a lot of the paper was also devoted to secular news. Articles were written about education, voting rights, equality, and other secular issues that affected the lives of black Americans. The Christian Recorder was a forum to address slavery, classism, as well as racism. Articles were written by black women and about black women, and the paper also addressed issues related to families.
The Christian Recorder has been a faithful voice for the disenfranchised and the oppressed. The publication addressed various issues confronting the black community and has been an advocate for justice and equal rights. During Reconstruction, it advocated education for all citizens and was an activist for higher education and especially for an educated ministry.
The Christian Recorder has always been faithful to and a voice for the African Methodist Episcopal Church and black Americans. It was an anchor for the African American community and its columns were blessed with remarkable contributions in the form of essays, editorials, poetry and articles on various subjects that were relevant and timely. The Christian Recorder has provided its readers with a wealth of information that benefited the soul as well as the mind. The Recorder has been a ministry to the readers of the African Methodist Episcopal Church from its beginning to the present time.
The Christian Recorder continues to serve the African Methodist Episcopal Church in local communities and around the world.”
My response continued with:
Getting back to your question, I am glad that you mentioned the Steve McNair news release. It has provoked the kind of comments that affirmed for me my decision to release the information. Steve McNair is a newsworthy story. His story has, for me, a religious component and it should be a reminder and even a deterrent for young athletes, entertainers, and young people to understand that they are not invulnerable. When I heard of his death and the circumstances around it, especially with his positive image in the Nashville community; I was saddened. I thought to myself, here is an African American who has the world at his fingertips and within seconds his life is taken away. As another person responded to the Steve McNair breaking news, “Regarding the McNair death, I think there is a sermon lurking in the air looking for a preacher with as much guts as McNair displayed on the field of play. Here it is: Jesus said to the man in the cemetery, "Go home!" I don't think there would have been a need for a memorial service, grieving wife and children, teary-eyed team mates, coaches and owners, fans and friends -- if McNair had simply "gone home."
This news item was published as a deterrent and to get people, especially young people, to think about their actions. That’s what I was hoping to do with the Steve McNair release. His death must not be in vain. Steve McNair was human and we are all human. We all make mistakes, but we must learn from each other’s mistakes.
In this age of information, news must be broader than the African Methodist Episcopal Church. The news has to be broader than what some people call “religious news.” News has to be enlarged beyond the borders of the African Methodist Episcopal Church and the United States.
So the purpose of the Steve McNair breaking news was not to spread gossip, but to serve as a reminder to clergy and laity, to young and old, that we must be careful of the company we keep and the places we go. People in powerful positions need to also be reminded of those whom Zach Minor, a “life coach” called, “frienemies.” “Frienemies” are those so-called friends who are really your enemies because they hang around you for their own self-interests and they don’t care anything about your well-being.
Dr. Johnny Barbour’s father was indeed correct, “It takes longer to get from the bottom to the top than it does to get from the top to the bottom.”
So, the bottom-line about News Releases and Breaking News falls upon my shoulders and I am trying to be faithful to the historical mission of The Christian Recorder.
Thought for the Week: “We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then, is not an act, but a habit.” Aristotle
2. READER RESPONSE TO EDITORIAL AND OTHER ISSUES:
To the Editor:
RE: The decision to restore the historic title to The Book of Discipline of the African Methodist Episcopal Church – 2008
I read with great interest the TCR Online news advisory of June 18, 2009, in which Dr. Clement Fugh, General Secretary and Chief Information Officer of the AME Church, explained why the title of the recently published Discipline had been changed to The Book of Discipline of the African Methodist Episcopal Church – 2008 from the title that has graced the cover of at least the preceding four editions (1992-2004): The Doctrine and Discipline of the African Methodist Episcopal Church.
Dr. Fugh’s statement indicated that “the decision to restore the historic title…is in keeping with the practice of other denominations.” Was that the sole rationale for the switch—to align with what other denominations are doing? If so, I’m not sure I understand why the title of our Discipline must mimic that of the United Methodists or other Methodist denominations, especially in light of the fact that our first Discipline—the one written by Richard Allen, our illustrious founder and first elected and consecrated Bishop, and published by Allen and Jacob Tapsico in 1817—was entitled The Doctrines and Discipline of the African Methodist Episcopal Church.
Please note the following: Not only was our original Discipline not entitled The Book of Discipline…; it was entitled The Doctrines—with an “s”—and Discipline of the African Methodist Episcopal Church. What happened to that “s”? When did it get dropped? Did it disappear as a result of a unilateral decision—or an oversight—of another Compilation Committee?
Given this revelation about the first edition, is it necessary for us to follow the lead of other denominations? Apparently Richard Allen didn’t think so. I can only imagine that he had a reason for entitling our book of governance as he did. Therefore, should the title be switched back? And should an “s” be added to “Doctrine”?
These discrepancies are something to think about. They creep in when we’re not vigilant and, with the passage of time, cause us to wonder, “What happened—and when and why?” They also point up the significance of the task that is placed in the hands of the Compilation Committee every four years. Obviously, care should be taken by the Committee to incorporate every change that has been approved through the legislative process. And care must be taken to correct obvious typographical and formatting errors. But restraint also must be exercised to avoid making changes that have not been approved through established procedures.
(Please see the cover of the first edition below. It, and the entire book, can be found online at http://docsouth.unc.edu/church/ame/ame.html. This compilation—and so many others concerning the early history of African Methodism—have been digitized by the University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill.)
Carol A. Bowie, Public-Relations Consultant in Detroit, Michigan and is the Director of Lay Activities at Oak Grove AMEC – Detroit
3. NEW COLUMN FOR THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER:
“Ask the Lawyer-Pastor” is a new column of The Christian Recorder. The Reverend Cornelius B. Scott, an attorney and AME pastor will be the columnist. Questions and answers will be published in The Christian Recorder as appropriate. AME pastors and laity are invited to ask questions related to the law. Some of the questions and answers will be published in The Christian Recorder.
Email your questions directly to “Ask the Lawyer-Pastor” - cornelius@ssscott.com. Please provide your full name, local church affiliation and telephone number, though that information does not have to be published. Ordinarily, your name would be published, but can be withheld upon request. We hope that this column will assist pastors and laity and will enhance ministry and evangelism of the African Methodist Episcopal Church.
The “Ask the Lawyer-Pastor” column is not an official entity of the African Methodist Episcopal Church.
4. ASK THE LAWYER- PASTOR:
*The Reverend Cornelius B. Scott
Have you been sued, abused, evicted, slandered, fired, arrested, neglected, busted or disgusted? Are you bankrupt, damaged, and injured, disabled, harassed, discriminated or terminated? What are your constitutional rights, legal rights, or rights of free speech? If you need legal information, ask the Lawyer-Pastor.
The purpose of this column is to answer questions about the law and our legal system from the perspective of an African Methodist Episcopal (AME) pastor who is a practicing attorney. As a pastor and attorney, I understand how our laws and legal system can resolve many ecclesiastical or church issues. For instance, is an AME pastor able to endorse candidates or say whatever he or she wants about politics from the pulpit? What is the legal definition of sexual harassment and how should a church or pastor respond to such accusations or charges? What should be done if a contractor does not perform the work for a church as promised? Ask the Lawyer-Pastor.
In my opinion, the future of the AME Church hinges on our understanding of how our legal system affects pastors, boards, and members. Therefore, pastors and laity should be informed as to the following: How can pastors and churches avoid legal problems or the appearance of impropriety with regard to financial matters, transparency, confidentiality, pastoral counseling or the use of church owned properties by individuals? What if someone slips and falls in my church? If my church has employees, do I need to understand workers' compensation laws? What are the changes in the Americans with disabilities act? Ask the Lawyer-Pastor.
I have discovered that there are a vast array of legal issues and challenges that confront African Methodism, pastors, and laity on a consistent basis. These legal issues reach into the business system of our AME Churches and impact our policies and the lives of the members of our congregations.
This column will help pastors and church officers cope with laws pertaining to the following: 1) understanding the terms and fine print in contracts; 2) what it means to be negligent; 3) church property insurance; 4) power of attorney; 5) burdens of proof; 6) the necessity of a will; 7) the affect of immigration laws; and 8) the importance and method of incorporating a church. You may find answers to these questions and more when you “Ask the Lawyer-Pastor.”
We hope this column will generate meaningful inquiry or questions.
I invite you to send your questions to following e-mail address: cornelius@ssscott.com
You can also mail your questions to Cornelius B. Scott, Esq., Scott, Scott & Scott, P.C., 1322 Columbia Drive, Decatur, Georgia 30032. My office phone numbers are (404) 289-6637 or FAX: (404) 289-4151.
We will attempt to answer all questions, although all questions chosen to be printed will be at the discretion of the Editor of The Christian Recorder.
*Cornelius Scott is a practicing attorney in the State of Georgia and one of the owners of the Law Firm, Scott, Scott & Scott, P.C. He is a member of the Georgia Bar Association and the American Bar Association and is licensed to practice in the Court of Appeals for the State of Georgia and the Supreme Court of the State of Georgia.
Cornelius Scott pastors Mt. Zion AME Church in College Park, Georgia in the Sixth Episcopal District. His educational background includes a Master of Divinity, a Doctor of Juris Prudence, and a Masters in Education, a Specialist in Education, and an Associate Degree in Engineering Technology. He is a former elementary school principal and a former Chaplain (Captain) in the United States Army Reserves.
General Disclaimer
Any and all published writers, non-published writers, readers, parties or anyone accepting information (hereinafter referred to as persons or parties) via email or letters from Cornelius Scott, Esq. or Scott, Scott & Scott, P.C. (hereinafter referred to as Law Firm) by and through The Christian Recorder shall not relied upon any advice, representations or statements of Law Firm and any such persons or parties waive and shall not assert any claims against Law Firm involving the same. Law Firm affirms and asserts that Law Firm shall not be responsible to advise on any matter, including but not limited to any matter in which Law Firm are not experts to advise or areas of law, Law Firm does not regularly practice in, and that, if any of these matters or any other matters are of concern to such persons or parties, they should seek independent expert legal advice relative thereto. In any matters, person or parties are hereby notified that they are governed by their own state or federal laws. Please check your local or federal laws regarding legal matters. No representation, promise, or inducement is in any way intended in the answers or information provided in this column nor is any agreement intended or binding upon any persons or parties, Law Firm or reader hereto unless by express written contract. There is no attempt by Cornelius Scott, Esq. or Scott, Scott & Scott, P.C. in any way to form a legal contract or provide legal representation or to practice law outside of Law Firm’s jurisdictional state or license.
5. PHILADELPHIA CONFERENCE CHURCH SCHOOL RETREAT IS A “MOUNTAINTOP” EXPERIENCE:
*Angelena Spears
The scenic, peaceful countryside of Lancaster County, Pennsylvania was the perfect backdrop for the Philadelphia Conference Church School Retreat, which was held June 4 – 6 at the Lancaster Host Resort.
The theme for the retreat was, “The Power of the Spoken Word.” It was selected by Jeanne Chavious, the Philadelphia Conference Superintendent, who decided to use the same theme given by Ann White-Sims, the First Episcopal District Church School Superintendent, for the 2008 First Episcopal District Church School Annual Day.
The first presenter was Evangelist Sandi Moore, who is an educational consultant and a member of Mount Tabor AME Church, Philadelphia. Sister Moore is also a motivational speaker.
As the lead presenter, Moore’s task was to outline the purpose of the retreat and also to create a “team-building” spirit among the attendees. She offered several activities that fostered working together and appreciating the various gifts that each member of the group brings to the team.
During her teaching time, Moore uplifted 2 Timothy 4:1-5 and spoke about the responsibility church school workers have been given to “reprove, rebuke and exhort.
Like all of the presenters that followed her, Moore was engaging and inspiring, and did an excellent job of showing the connection of the “Spoken Word” to the mind, body and spirit.
On day two of the retreat, the very capable presenters were: the Rev. Carolyn Jordan, pastor of Fairview AME Church, Woodlyn, PA, who spoke about the “Spirit”; the Rev. Debbie Speaks, an associate pastor at St. Matthews AME Church, Philadelphia, spoke about the “body”; and the Rev. Jackie Capers, pastor of Ruffin Nichols Memorial AME Church, Philadelphia, spoke about the “mind.”
By the end of the morning sessions, the attendees had their spiritual cups filled to the brim with affirmation scriptures, revelations, powerful testimonies and an appreciation for the ability of the Spoken Word to make real and effective change in lives and situations.
The Rev. Lawrence C. Henryhand, the host presiding elder of the Harrisburg District, introduced Rev. Martin Odom and welcomed everyone to “God’s Country.” The Rev. Martin Odom, the pastor of Bethel “Village” AME Church, in nearby Harrisburg, PA, delivered a powerful message based on 1 Corinthians 15:11-20. His sermon title was, “The truth is the truth, whether you like it or not.” In his message, Rev. Odom said, “If you want to be effective in church school, give them [the students] the truth, and the truth is the Word of God.”
When day three arrived, the Rev. Dr. Mary Moore, of Mount Tabor AME Church, Philadelphia, had the awesome task of “wrapping up” the retreat that no one was anxious to leave.
Rev. Moore’s delivery was charged-up and she delivered powerful testimony of how she had used the spoken Word to bring about healing in her own body when doctors had given her life-threatening and life-altering prognoses. “Your words are building blocks of which you construct your life and future,” said Rev. Moore. She uplifted Proverbs 18:21 as proof and said, “You are either speaking life or death with your words into your own life and the lives of others.”
Both the Rev. Mary Moore and the Rev. Debbie Speaks had drawn a correlation between our health and what we eat, and challenged those in attendance to be more discipline over what we put into our bodies because many of the health problems we deal with later in life are related to the choices we make in our diets.
During her closing remarks, Sister Jean Chavious, the Philadelphia Conference Church School Superintendent, thanked everyone for attending and she singled out Sister Jean Adams, the South Philadelphia District Superintendent, for her work in helping to coordinate the project, and Brother Gerald Samuels, the Philadelphia District church school superintendent, who had been the only male to attend the retreat for the entire three days.
Sister Jean Chavious also gave special recognition to Evangelist Sandi Moore who had picked out the hotel. Evangelist Moore co-owns a traveling business with her sister, Elaine Morgan, called Moore-Amour Travel Network.
Sister Chavious marveled at how gifted each presenter had been, and said, “God has placed in these women’s hearts what we needed to hear.”
“I truly believe if the church school can use the power that God has given us – we can make the difference in the lives of our churches and turn people’s hearts and lives around,” she said.
Sister White-Sims, who had traveled from New York to attend the retreat, was visibly moved when she was asked to give closing remarks.
“This retreat was the answer to my prayer,” Sister White-Sims told the group. “Last year, before we began planning our Annual Day, God gave me this theme. “This retreat was the icing on the cake,” she said. “It has been a joy.”
And although many of the attendees voiced a desire to “stay on the mountain” when the three-day retreat came to a close, there was an excitement in the air as they were challenged to go back to their local churches and share what they had learned.
*Angelena Spears is the Philadelphia Conference Reporter
6. TERESA DELOACH REED NAMED ASSISTANT FIRE CHIEF; SAN JOSE FIRE DEPARTMENT’S HIGHEST RANKING WOMAN:
*Marilyn Lovelace-Grant
Teresa Deloach Reed, member of First AME Church, Oakland, California, was named Assistant Fire Chief on April 5, 2009 after a nation-wide search. Ms. Deloach Reed has been a member of FAME Oakland since 1997, where the Rev. Dr. Harold R. Mayberry is the Senior Pastor. She has served as a Steward for eight years, as well as administrative assistant to the Pastor, former Lay Organization President for four years and Unit Leader since 1999. FAME Oakland is in the California Conference of the 5th District, Bishop T. Larry Kirkland, Presiding Prelate, with Presiding Elders Booker T. Guyton and Vernon S. Burroughs.
Everything meaningful in life takes prayer, preparation, sacrifice and vision. Ms. Deloach Reed, 51, began her journey to leadership in the San Jose Fire Department 23 years ago, when she picked up a fire fighter application meant for her brother, and after reading the qualifications on the job description she said, “Hey, I could do this.”
At the time, Mrs. Deloach Reed was a phone-company installer and she already knew how to climb ladders, carry heavy equipment, and crawl around in dark, confined spaces. She also grew up with seven brothers and learned how to hold her own with a bunch of guys.
The first black woman hired with San Jose Fire Department and the first woman promoted to the position of fire engineer, Mrs. Deloach Reed went on to be promoted to Fire Inspector in 1991. In 1994 Mrs. Deloach Reed once again became the first woman to be promoted to the position of Fire Captain and was put in charge of an all male-company that embraced her leadership and supported her professional growth in this new role. Later in 1999 Ms. Deloach Reed was promoted to Battalion Chief.
Mrs. Deloach Reed also served as the Training Captain from 1996 to 1999, where she coordinated several recruit academies. She was a line Battalion Chief from 1999 to 2001 before she was named the department’s Safety Officer. As a line Battalion Chief, Chief Deloach Reed was responsible for all emergency operations taking place on the eastside of San Jose. Before being appointed to Assistant Fire Chief, Mrs. Deloach Reed was the acting Deputy Chief for the training division, and responsible for all emergency operations throughout the city.
As the second in command, Chief Teresa Deloach Reed is the highest ranking woman in the San Jose Fire Department. The city of San Jose is the tenth largest city in the country and the third largest city in California. It serves a population of 1,006,892 in an area of 205 square miles. The San Jose Fire Department is the largest metropolitan area in the greater Bay Area.
Reflecting on how far God has brought her, Chief Deloach Reed thought back to the day she reported to Fire Station 26 after graduating from the academy. “I didn’t get a lot of support from the other members. What I got most was the silent treatment. My first 5 years were very long and disappointing. Everyone I met would talk about how they loved the fire service and how it was the best job in the world. They would tell stories about how they would travel up and down the state testing, trying to get hired. I spent my first 5 years trying to figure out “why would they do this?” While they were trying to get in, I was trying to get out. During this time, my Fire Chief kept promising it would get better. Well, it did and I began to move up in the ranks. As a company officer, and after eight years of being in the fire service, I was able to experience the greatness of being apart of the fire service. Fast-forward ten years and I remember being in Pastor Mayberry’s office telling him of my disappointment of being denied the third time, the position of Deputy Chief. Both pastor and PE Burroughs shared with me “A blessing delayed is not a blessing denied.” You can’t plan your destiny…..Only God can! You must wait on the Lord. You can spend your nights crying because you didn’t get an appointment, all the while not knowing the Lord has something bigger and better for you. Wait on the Lord, consult with him first. Rev. Mayberry teaches you are going to get one of three answers: yes, no, or not yet. The Lord knows when it is your time……and he will put you in position when it is your season. Wait on the Lord, and include Him in all you do.”
Please join the 5th Episcopal District, the California Conference and the members of First AME Church Oakland, California in congratulating Chief Deloach Reed for her exceptional accomplishments. She is a living witness of the scripture “I can do all things through Christ Jesus who strengthens me.”
*Marilyn Lovelace-Grant, Director of Public Relations California Annual Conference
7. HBCU PLANS TO OPEN BOARDING SCHOOL FOR BLACK MALES:
Kentucky State University President Mary Sias says the school is trying to find funding to open a boarding school for Black males.
Sias told The State Journal of Frankfort that the proposal is part of an initiative to increase the number of Black men who earn college diplomas. She says high school students would live in campus dorms, have their own teachers and an on-site principal at the historically Black college in Frankfort.
The pilot program could start in the fall of 2010 if KSU receives enough federal and grant funding. Sias says there would be room for 30 to 50 high school students to participate.
Submitted by the Rev. Dr. Robert Strode, pastor of St. John AME Church, Frankfort, Kentucky
8. JEHOVAH AME CHURCH, CROSS, SOUTH CAROLINA:
* Mr. Benjamin Harrison
105th Church Anniversary and Mortgage Burning Service
On June 14, 2009 the Reverend Barbara Chisolm and the Jehovah AME Church family in Cross, South Carolina marked a milestone in their journey by celebrating both their 105th Church Anniversary and Mortgage Burning Service. In the midst of these challenging economic conditions, God has granted Rev. Chisolm the vision to free the church from the chains of financial bondage. Jehovah AME Church is free from debt!
The theme for the occasion was, “Reflecting upon the past as we move into the future.” Indeed it was a celebration of praise and worship with powerful preaching that shook the foundation of history past and opened the passageway for a brighter tomorrow.
During the morning worship service Rev. Chisolm preached a message entitled, “Why does the Church Celebrate?” Her scripture was taken from Nehemiah 8:10. Later that afternoon the featured speaker was the Reverend Dr. Allen W. Parrott, Presiding Elder of the Kingstree District.
Rev. Chisolm stated, “We are truly grateful to all who worked and prayed to make this day a reality; and now, it is time to move on, Moses my servant is dead, but Israel still has a future.”
* Mr. Benjamin Harrison is the Public Relations Director for the 7th Episcopal District
9. BISHOP VASHTI MCKENZIE FAITH-BASED INFLUENCER PANEL:
Bishop Vashti Murphy McKenzie has been selected to be a part of the 1st Female Faith-Based Influencer Panel for Network Television. As a member of this panel she will be featured as a panelist to a major entertainment property, and asked about her opinion as it relates to aspects of the show and the faith-based audience. This esteemed panel will be featured on Streaming Faith as a part of the Executive Producer Jada Pinkett-Smith’s TV series Hawthorne, and the “Inspired Connections” program. She will be featured on Streaming Faith on July 8th and July 29th
For more on the show visit: http://www.streamingfaith.com/hawthorne.aspx
Submitted by Mrs. Linnie Davis
10. ST. ANDREWS AME IS CHURCH CELEBRATE 140 YEARS OF MINISTRY AND SERVICE:
St. Andrews AME will celebrate 140 years of ministry and service in Youngstown, Ohio. The theme for the celebration, based on Exodus 12:14 will be "Our Faith, Our Heritage, Our Future."
The church celebration will kick- off on Friday, August 7th Community Night, with Bishop Norman L. Wagner preaching, pastor of Calvary Ministries International and their church choir.
Saturday, August 8th at the Mahoning Country Club, keynote speaker will be Dr. Earnest Perry, a medical doctor.
Super Sunday August 9, 2009 begins with the Rev. Paula Guilford Harris, associate minister at St. John's AME Church, Worthington, Ohio. She will be preaching at the 10:45 am worship service.
The church anniversary services will conclude with the Rev. Georgina Thornton and the St. Paul AME Church Choir from Cleveland, Ohio at the 3:30 p.m. worship service.
The Rev. Steven A. Jackson is the pastor of St. Andrews AME Church
11. “LIVING LIFE BETWEEN THE DASH”:
*The Reverend Dr. Michael C. Carson
'Well done, good and faithful servant!” St. Matthew 25:21
Upon hearing about Michael Jackson’s passing I exclaimed “Oh no-oh my!” A number of thoughts and emotions came over me. Watching on television Michael’s Memorial Celebration of Life was surreal! Here was someone one I never knew personally and yet we grew up together.
Connecting watershed events in my life with The Jackson Five, The Jacksons, and Michael Jackson’s songs as being part of the soundtrack for those moments in time is so rich!
This column is intended to show “much love,” respect, and honor to the memory of Michael Jackson. I also want to “lift up” a well-known biblical principle concerning life and death. “God is no respecter of person or position.” (Romans 2:11) There is an “expiration date” affixed to our life. The day will come when we all will “sleep to rise no more.”
The statement has been made that “We are born and we die. But it’s what we do with the ‘dash’ between the two dates that makes the difference.” No truer words have ever been stated!
Death causes us to pause and reflect on our own mortality. We might ask our self “Have I done anything to make a difference in someone’s life?” And in a more “vain moment” we might ask ourselves “What will they say about me when I die?”
I seriously doubt that when it is my time to “sleep to rise no more,” there will be long lines to view my body, or all of the news media will almost cease to report anything else that is going on in the world except the details of my life and death. I do not think that the amount of “hits” on the internet concerning my life and death will be so great that the sites will almost crash.
But I do pray that someone can say, “Mike Carson made a difference in my life.” I pray this for you also. That some one will at the notice of your passing pause to reflect on how their life was made much fuller and richer because of your presence in their life.
I teach, “No sermon should ever end leaving the listeners without hope. Nor should any column written for inspirational purposes ever leave its readers disconsolate.”
Therefore I believe that the joy of living life within ‘the dash’ between one’s birth and death is the actual living of life within itself. “The dash” is something that my Administrative Assistant Ms. Carolyn A. Graves and I often talk about.
It’s our successes and failures, high points and low moments that make our life so rich. It’s winning with grace and losing with honor. It’s the never taking ourselves too seriously but always being serious about our life and the lives of others. It’s the diversity of life and relationships that adds rich hue and color to the “canvas of our existence.” It’s using the gifts that God has given us to bless others that say to God, “Thank You!”
Therefore let us strive to live out our “dash” to the fullest by using our God-given gifts to bless others. I believe that this is what Michael Jackson “The King of Pop” tried to do-and yes did!
Peace with justice, be blessed real good, attend church, and attend worship.
*The Reverend Dr. Michael C. Carson carsonvision@acd.net is the Fourth Episcopal District Director of Public Relations and pastor Union Memorial African Methodist Episcopal Church Benton Harbor, Michigan
12. FALSE PROFITS:
*The Rev. N.T. Pitt
I am sure that you are going to immediately say, he misspelled the word, “prophets”; but I didn’t. The word, “Profits” is just what I meant, “False Profits.” You will understand after you have read this article.
There is not a day that passes when I don’t go to my mail box and find it stuffed with envelopes that advertises “free gifts,” a free T shirt, a free drinking cup, a pen set, an umbrella, a dollar bill, a nickel, a set of his and her watches, and others items. But inside each package there is a form suggesting a monetary gift that they would like to receive. Some even have the audacity to circle the amount they would like for you to give for the “free gift.”
After doing some research on the various soliciting organizations, it is difficult to get any information in regards to how the money is being used. Most of the money collected, as I understand it, does not go to the advertised charitable work. A large chunk of the money is used for “administrative” purposes, and for salaries and expenses. It seems that their expenses and needs far exceed the needs of those for whom they are soliciting.
There are many organizations soliciting funds claiming to help paralyzed veterans, handicap veterans, widows of veterans, children of veterans, and homeless veterans.
If this nation can dole out millions to foreign governments to squander money without any accountability, why can’t this nation take care of its veterans? Why do they have to struggle? Why do they have to sleep on streets and beg?
Funds are also being solicited by those whose aim is to stem the tide of drinking and driving. We can pass all kinds of legislation and collect all of the money possible in regard to destructive behavior, but it won’t make any difference until we deal with or appeal to people’s common sense, or cut off the supply of the destructive behavior, which we know is almost impossible. But until we do, people will keep drinking, driving and killing the innocent and self-destruct, no matter how much money is collected. If we think that soliciting funds will solve the problems, we are dreaming.
Churches are getting into the act. There are churches springing up on every corner and in every vacant lot, all competing for members and money. Some are claiming to have the only legitimate interpretation of the Bible. And some act as if they have a monopoly on the Holy Spirit. Some are not “rightly dividing the word of truth.”
Some Televangelists are soliciting funds claiming to be helping the needy, but those televangelists are living in gated communities, driving Rolls Royce’s, sailing on their private yachts, and flying on their private jets to “sun” on tropical beaches. And their members who need assistance have to go through several secretaries and administrative assistants; and get no results.
Some corporate executives and some religious leaders are enjoying and living off “false profits,” at the expense of the poor.
You may notice that I used the word “some” frequently, which means that not all of the soliciting organizations are guilty of pocketing “false profits,” but some, are.
Zacchaeus knew he had been living off “false profits” when he came down out of that sycamore tree confessing, “If I have taken anything from any man by false accusation, I will restore him fourfold.”
Convicted Ponzi-scheme operator, Bernard Madoff was sentenced to 150 years in prison all because, for years, he had been living off “false profits.”
When organizations solicit funds in the name of helping the needy, especially the poor and the hungry and take it for personal purposes and pleasure, they are using “false profits.” Organizations that fail to use money collected for its intended purpose are participating in “false profits.”
It pains me to see people using the “unfortunate” as a means of self-aggrandizement.
What does it profit persons or organizations to use “false profits”?
*The Rev. N.T. Pitts is a retired pastor who lives in Eatonville, Florida
13. EPISCOPAL FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
It is with a sense of profound sorrow and sadness that we announce the passing of former Episcopal Supervisor Theodora Mayo, wife of retired Bishop James Haskell Mayo, 100th elected and consecrated Bishop of the African Methodist Episcopal Church.
Mrs. Theodora Mayo passed on last evening, July 6, 2009.
Service arrangements are pending.
Please remember Bishop James Haskell Mayo in your prayers.
Submitted by:
Presiding Elder Thomas Hughes
4th Episcopal District Office
Bishop John Richard Bryant, Presiding Prelate
Fourth Episcopal District AME Church
5627 S. Michigan Avenue
3rd Floor
Chicago, IL 60637
773-955-9825
773-955-9840 – FAX
14. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
We regret to announce the passing of the Reverend Dr. Ray Charles Williams on Friday, July 3, 2009. He was pastor of Bethel AME Church-Greenville, Texas, and the husband of the late Rev. Cynthia E. Williams.
The following information has been provided regarding Homegoing Celebrations for the late Rev. Dr. Ray Charles Williams:
Viewing (Texas)
Friday, July 10, 2009
9 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Cozine & Tarver Funeral Home
1608 King Street
Greenville, Texas 75401
Phone: (903) 455-5330
Saturday, July 11, 2009
Viewing:
10:00 A.M. - 1:00 P.M.
Bethel AME Church
Greenville, Texas
Wake:
Friday, July 10, 2009
7:00 P.M.
Bethel AME Church
2109 Wesley Street
Greenville, Texas 75401
Phone: (903) 455-2510
Homegoing Celebration:
Saturday, July 11, 2009
1:00 P.M.
Bethel AME Church
2109 Wesley Street
Greenville, Texas 75401
Phone: (903) 455-2510
Visitation (Arkansas):
Monday, July 13, 2009
11:00 A.M. - 3:00 P.M.
Williams Funeral Home
1517 Caddo Street
Arkadelphia, Arkansas 71923
Phone: (870) 246-4211
Wake:
Monday, June 13, 2009
4:00 P.M. - 7:00 P.M.
Saint Paul AME Church
1505 Caddo Street
Arkadelphia, Arkansas 71923-5907
Phone: (870) 246-2820
Homegoing Celebration:
Tuesday, July 14, 2009
1:00 P.M.
Pleasant Hill AME Church
Highway 51 North
Joan, Arkansas 72015-5341
Phone: (501) 778-1062
Condolences and expressions of sympathy may be sent to:
Mr. Ray Charles Williams, Jr.
14833 Spring Creek, #126
Dallas, Texas 765248
Phone: (214) 275-8502
15. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
We regret to announce the passing of the Reverend Julius Smith, retired pastor in the West Tennessee Conference of the 13th Episcopal District. Rev. Smith spent his entire pastoral ministry in the West Tennessee Annual Conference.
Service arrangements for the Reverend Julius Smith:
Friday, July 10, 2009
Visitation:
5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
White's Chapel AME Church
1712 Fields Road
Memphis, TN 38109
Phone: 901-785-0078
Rev. Garry Fair, Pastor
Saturday, July 11, 2009
Service of Remembrance:
12 Noon
St. John AME Church
4862 Millbranch
Memphis, TN 38116
Phone: 901-345-5280
The Rev. Ivy C. Hudson Courtez, Pastor
Professional Services entrusted to:
M. J. Edwards Funeral Home - Whitehaven
5494 Elvis Presley Blvd.
Memphis, TN 38116
Phone: 901-332-3164
Expressions of sympathy may be sent to his wife:
Mrs. Rosetta Smith
1596 Fields Road
Memphis, TN 38109
Phone: 901-785-3533
Email: lutitia@peoplepc.com
16. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
It is with regret that we announce the passing of the Reverend Frank Gray, retired pastor of St. Luke AME Church, Kansas City, Kansas and a former pastor in the Southern California Conference. Rev. Gray passed on Monday, July 6, 2009
Service arrangements for Reverend Frank Gray:
Sunday, July 12, 2009
Wake: 5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.
Mrs. J. W. Jones Memorial Chapel
703 North 10th Street
Kansas City, Kansas 66102
Office: 913-321-0253
Fax: 913-321-1444
Email: mrsjwjoneschapel@bytesmart.com
Monday, July 13, 2009
Viewing: 9:00 a.m.
Home-going Celebration: 10:00 a.m.
First AME Church
1111 North 8th St.
Kansas City, KS 66101
Phone: 913-371-2805
The Rev. Jonathan Rhone, Pastor
Monday, July 13, 2009
Interment: 12:30 p.m. Leavenworth Cemetery
Condolences and expressions of sympathy may be sent to:
Mrs. Celestine Gray
1523 N. 62nd Place
Kansas City, Kansas 66102
Phone: 913-334-0036
Email: Cgray614@att.net
17. 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
18. 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
