THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER ONLINE ENGLISH EDITION (1/15/09)

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 – AN ANSWER AND CLARIFICATION TO A QUESTION ABOUT LOVE FOR THE AME CHURCH:

Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III
The 20th Editor of The Christian Recorder

Last week's editorial, "I am not a Baptist, I am not a Pentecostal and I am not a member of a nondenominational church…" precipitated a response from one of our readers who asked for clarification. He asked, "I would like to know what you mean when you say, "They (the Pentecostals) can do the Pentecostal thing better than we can?” He went on to ask, "... are you referring to their form of praise and worship and how they allow God to let them operate their worship services with various gifts of the spirit?”

The second part of his question raised more questions and affirms my need to clarify the intent of the editorial.

I am happy for the person who has chosen to be member of another denomination and that is their choice.

When I stated, "I am not a Baptist, I am not a Pentecostal and I am not a member of a nondenominational church…," it had nothing to do with how the parishioners of those churches respond in worship. I don’t see those churches as being more spiritual than AME Churches. Let me dispel the notion that Pentecostals and other non-Methodist churches have a “copyright” on spirited worship and the manifestation of the various gifts of the Holy Spirit. The African Methodist Episcopal Church as I have known it; has always celebrated praise and worship. I have seen parishioners shout on the Decalogue; and the preaching in AME Churches is second to none.

The issue for me is “Free” worship vs. "Liturgical” worship; and liturgical worship in the African Methodist Episcopal Church has always had space for the gifts of the Holy Spirit.

In talking about liturgy and worship, I am saddened when AME pastors try to impose “Free” worship in a liturgical worship environment, and I am specifically referring to some of our pastors who have abandoned the liturgy, traditions, and practices of the African Methodist Episcopal Church. We are not a “Free Church” and our pastors have not, for the most part, been trained in “Free” worship tradition. That’s the distinction I was attempting to make. The Pentecostals can do the “Free” worship form better than we can because they have been trained to do so and it’s their tradition. And, perhaps the time has come for the AME Church, as the United Methodist Church has done, to closer screen the seminaries that we allow and approve our ministerial candidates to attend.

So what is Free Church Worship?

The Free Church worship experience is quite different from Liturgical Worship. Worship in the Free Church tradition can differ from Sunday to Sunday. While the Free Church worship components include hymns, scripture, prayer, announcements, a sermon, invitation to discipleship or tarrying for the Holy Ghost and a free-will offering; there is no set order of worship or rituals, and most often their clerics do not wear religious garments.

Baptists are the largest of the Free Church denominations; others include, Church of Christ, Church of God, Church of God in Christ, Bible Churches, Assemblies of God, the United Church of Christ, the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), Charismatic groups, other Pentecostal churches, and many non- denominational churches. Generally, the Free Church denominations do not use books of worship, the lectionary or other resources for worshippers; they refuse to use worship service books because they see it as a violation of their worship freedom.

The African Methodist Episcopal Church along with other mainline or liturgical denominations that include other Methodist bodies, Lutherans, Reformed, the Episcopal Church, and Presbyterian bodies follow an order of worship that gives stability and order to worship; and that is the purpose of our AME Order of Worship."

I like order in worship, but I also like expressive worship. I grew up with folks shouting and getting happy. I love that kind of worship expression, but, at the same time, I don’t expect that everyone will respond the same way to the unction of the Holy Spirit; some will pat their feet, some will rock back and forth, others will shout and still others will be reflective. The AME Church allows freedom in worship.

For me, touching the worshipper next to me is not a priority in worship; in worship, I am trying to connect with God and to commit my life to God so that I will be obedient to God’s Word so that I can love my neighbor and treat others as God would want me to treat others throughout the week. I want to be obedient to the Summary of the Decalogue, as well as to the Decalogue.

Some AME clergy may need to be reminded that Methodism grew out of holiness. We are probably the first Protestant body (Methodism) to embrace holiness, and I think, either some of our pastors and members do not know that, or we have forgotten that part of our heritage. I want our pastors and members to know our heritage and to remain faithful to our spiritual traditions.

I, personally, don’t mind creativity in worship, but I do object when pastors indiscriminately dismantle the AME liturgy because they have not taken the time to discover why the liturgical elements were initially and eventually put into the worship ritual. I don’t mind innovation, but in the end, when I attend an AME worship service, anywhere in the world; I need to know that I have attended an AME worship service.

I want to close with my response to the question of the reader who precipitated this editorial, when he asked, “Are you referring to their (Pentecostal worship) form of praise and worship and how they allow God to let them operate their worship services with various gifts of the spirit?”

The AME Church, at least the ones I attended, pastored, and one I attend today, have all had praise and worship with evidences of the various gifts of the Holy Spirit.

The African Methodist Episcopal Church, when pastored correctly, with gifted pastoral leadership, is a liturgical Church that allows the presence and function of the Holy Spirit. I am glad that, “I am not a Baptist, I am not a Pentecostal and I am not a member of a nondenominational church; I am a Methodist and more specifically I am an African Methodist, and I am glad about it!”

If you are a member of the African Methodist Episcopal Church, I hope that you are glad to be an AME too!

If you are not a member of a church and love liturgy, order and Holy Spirit-filled worship services, visit an AME Church in your area. We have some great AME Churches all over the world, so wherever you go, you will be connected to African Methodism.

2. TENNESSEE GOVERNOR BREDESEN APPOINTS JOHN WESTLEY MCCLARTY, AN AME, TO THE COURT OF APPEALS:

NASHVILLE – Governor Phil Bredesen today (1/15/09) appointed John Westley McClarty, a member of Warren Chapel AME Church in Chattanooga, to the Tennessee Court of Appeals, Eastern Section.

McClarty, who is a solo practitioner in Chattanooga, fills a vacancy created in September by the Governor’s appointment of Sharon Gail Lee to the Tennessee Supreme Court.

“John McClarty has developed extensive civil and criminal trial experience in his career, and I am confident he will carry out his duties on the Court of Appeals in the same thoughtful and professional manner in which he has practiced law in Tennessee for more than 30 years,” said Bredesen. “I am pleased to appoint John to this seat, and I appreciate his willingness to serve in this position.”

McClarty, 60, has been a member of the Chattanooga Bar Association and the Chattanooga Trial Lawyers Association since 1976. A member of the American Board of Trial Advocates and the National Bar Association, he received a Bachelor of Science from Austin Peay State University in Clarksville, Tenn., and a Juris Doctor Degree from the Southern University School of Law in Baton Rouge, La.

“I am honored to be appointed by Governor Bredesen to serve the citizens of Tennessee on the Court of Appeals,” said McClarty. “I will bring to this appointment a commitment to equal justice under the law for all parties and my belief that the business of the court should be conducted in a manner that demonstrates respect and dignity for all who come before it.”

A U.S. Army veteran, McClarty received the Army Good Conduct Medal and the Army Commendation Medal for his service. He served previously as Chair of the Tennessee Registry of Election Finance and the Hamilton County Police Department Civil Service Board.

McClarty is a lifetime member of the NAACP and associate pastor of the Warren Chapel AME Church.

3. THE INVESTITURE OF BISHOP PAUL J. M. KAWIMBE, PRESIDENT OF THE GLOBAL COUNCIL OF BISHOPS:

Monday, December 8, 2008 at 7 p.m., at the Convention Center in North Charleston, South Carolina, the connectional African Methodist Episcopal Church convened to invest Bishop Paul J.M. Kawimbe as President of the global Council of Bishops. Approximately one thousand attendees gathered to witness this remarkable international event. Nineteen presiding Bishops of the global A.M.E. Church, which now extends to 5 continents, were present in North Charleston, along with a host of retired Bishops, General Officers, pastors, clergy, laity, family and friends.

Special presentations were made on behalf of U.S. Congressman James E. Clyburn, 6th Congressional District (South Carolina), and Ambassador Dr. Ingonge Mbikusita-Lewanika, Zambian Ambassador to the United States. Also in attendance were a plethora of economic, social and political leaders from throughout South Carolina and the world.

Bishop Paul Kawimbe currently presides in Africa over the 17th Episcopal District which encompasses Burundi, Congo Brazzaville, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Kenya, Rwanda and Zambia. A native of Lusaka, Zambia, Bishop Kawimbe represents an important expansion in indigenous African leadership within the A.M.E. Church. Interestingly, Bishop Kawimbe believes that the current greatest potential for A.M.E. Church growth exists on his native continent of Africa, where the A.M.E. Church is expanding exponentially.

Monday evening, Bishop Paul J.M. Kawimbe and Supervisor Yvonne C.M. Kawimbe literally danced down the red carpet as they entered the grand ballroom to a rousing round of cheers and applause. Holding hands they two-stepped their way up the aisle to a beautiful African song with all banquet attendees standing on their feet dancing and clapping in time.

The Master and Mistress of Ceremony were the Rev. Paul Mugala, Senior Pastor, and the Rev. Faith Mugala, Associate Minister of Pleasant Valley A.M.E. Church, Detroit Michigan. The welcome was offered by Bishop Preston W. Williams II, Presiding Prelate of the 7th Episcopal District and Host Bishop of the investiture event who stated, “We thank you for your presence here in South Carolina and ask that you pray for the wisdom and well-being of Bishop Paul J.M. Kawimbe as he is invested as President of the global Council of Bishops.” Bishop Williams played an integral role in the election of Bishop Kawimbe as the 121st consecrated Bishop of the A.M.E. Church, and both Bishops share a reciprocal father-son spiritual relationship.

A section of the program entitled ‘the occasion” was given by Mr. Nicholas Chilukuta, Bethel A.M.E. Church, Lusaka, Zambia. Reflections of Bishop Kawimbe as a teacher were presented by Dr. Osbert Sikazwe, Bethel A.M.E. Church Lusaka, Zambia; Bishop Kawimbe as a leader by the Rev. Moses Achola, Pastor, Bethel A.M.E. Church Nakuru, Kenya; Bishop as an advocate by the Rev. Dr. James Webb, former pastor, Bethel A.M.E. Church Lusaka, Zambia; Bishop as a family man by Mr. Emmanuel & Master Joshua Kawimbe, sons of Bishop Paul & Supervisor Yvonne Kawimbe; and Bishop as a friend by the Rev. Dr. Ricky Spain, retired General Officer, A.M.E. Church. A special tribute to Supervisor Yvonne Kawimbe was offered by Mrs. Amy Sikazwe, Maranatha A.M.E. Church, Lusaka, Zambia, and the keynote speech delivered by the Rev. Dr. Frank Madison Reid III, Pastor, Bethel A.M.E. Church, Baltimore, Maryland.

Toward the close of the evening, Bishop Kawimbe offered his acceptance address and rhetorically asked, “What legacy will we leave for those who come after us?” Bishop Kawimbe encouraged his fellow Bishops, and all leaders of the church on all levels, to continue challenging themselves to find new ways of meeting the ever-changing needs of this 21st century world. As the attendees filed out of the banquet hall, all knew that they had witnessed an intellectually stimulating, culturally broadening, and spiritually inspiring event.

The following afternoon, Tuesday, December 9, Mayor Joseph P. Riley Jr. of Charleston, SC, sponsored a luncheon for the A.M.E. leadership during which he presented a resolution on behalf of the city of Charleston honoring Bishop Kawimbe’s investment as President of the Council of Bishops.

The resolution read: Whereas the 7th Episcopal District served as the Host District for the General Board of the Global African Methodist Episcopal Church, December 7-9, 2008, at the North Charleston Convention Center; and The Right Reverend Paul J. M. Kawimbe, Presiding Prelate of the 17th Episcopal District, was invested as the President of the Global Council of Bishops of the African Methodist Episcopal Church on December 8, 2008; and the Right Reverend Paul J.M. Kawimbe serves areas of Burundi, Congo Brazzaville, Democratic Republic of Congo, Kenya, Rwanda and Zambia; and also serves as a Zambian Religious Diplomat; and in addition to The Right Reverend Paul J. M. Kawimbe’s regular service, he has given generously of his time and effort in the support of many worthy organizations: Board Chair of Agape Credit Services; Board Chair of New Development Communication Consultancy Agency; Board Chair of Lusaka Clean Environment; Vice Chair, Board of Governors, Damishael Christian Academy; Board Member Bible Society of Zambia; and member of the Global Evangelical Accrediting Commission; and with the love and encouragement of his wife, Yvonne C. M. Kawimbe, and fine family, the Right Reverend Paul J. M. Kawimbe has been a powerful influence for good and has earned and justly deserves this honor for his many years of service to the African Methodist Episcopal Church; I, Joseph P. Riley, Jr., Mayor, City of Charleston, do hereby extend to the Right Reverend Paul J.M. Kawimbe sincere congratulations and further extend my very best wishes for many successful years ahead.

Article by Benjamin Harrison, Public Relations Director, 7th District A.M.E. Church
www.prdirector@ame7.org

4. PRECIOUS MEMORIES: OUR CHURCH, OUR HISTORY AND OUR CULTURE IN THE AGE OF OBAMA:

By Dr. Frank M. Reid, III
Senior Pastor – Bethel AME Church – Baltimore
February 2009

One of the historic moments in Gospel music history was when Aretha Franklin and James Cleveland did a gospel album together. Aretha Franklin, the Queen of Soul, was at the heights of her power. James Cleveland was the Godfather/King of gospel music and the two of them teaming up excited those in the church and the streets. This historic collaboration was an act of remembering.

Young Aretha grew up singing in the Detroit church where her father, the Rev. C. L. Franklin, was the pastor. Yet, Pastor Franklin was much more than just a pastor. He was one of Black America's most popular preachers and leaders. Records and later, tapes of his sermons were sold and listened to throughout the nation. It was in the New Bethel Baptist Church, the church her father founded, that Aretha was filled with the spirit and that would later transform her into the Queen of Soul. It was while listening to her father preach powerful messages that intertwined deep thought, deep emotions and pragmatic action that she learned how her unique skills and talents could be used to inspire people to make a difference and change the world.

On Tuesday, January 20, 2009, this daughter of the Black church and a preeminent Black preacher sang on the steps of the Capitol as part of President Obama's inauguration ceremony. Her very presence and powerful musical presentation at the Inauguration is a reminder of how important the past is in the present. It is a reminder of the day that Mahalia Jackson sang in the shadow of the Lincoln Monument and Martin Luther King, Jr. thundered I Have a Dream! It is a reminder to remember the influence that the past has in shaping the present and the future.

Aretha's roots in the black church tradition are a reminder of the significant role that the black church plays and continues to play in American and African American history. The black church is the foundation of African-American freedom, development and success. African-American Christianity is the mother of our music, the inspiration for our educational quest, the foundation of our politics and the institution that encouraged and organized our early economic development strategies. The black church gave us the vision and values that increased our strength for the struggle. In short, it helped us survive until the doors were opened for us to succeed.

Today, those "Precious Memories" are being lost. Secularized post-modern African-American culture seeks to demean, diminish the contributions of black church, and African-American sacred culture. These proponents of cultural deconstruction want us to forget slavery, the struggle, our spirituality, survival strategies and success. They are hoping that a combination of cultural amnesia and intellectual Alzheimer’s will make people forget the dream.

A few weeks ago, Dr. Harold A. Carter, Sr. , pastor of the New Shiloh Baptist Church in Baltimore, and I were talking about the then President-elect’s journey to the White House. Dr. Carter, who knew Doctor King personally, talked about how if you closed your eyes when Obama speaks, you can hear the cadence and structure of Dr. King. Indeed, Dr. Carter shared that in many ways, President Obama is a secularized version of Dr. King. As I thought about the conversation, I looked at the process of Joseph’s life and discovered that initially, Joseph was a dreamer. His dreams led him into slavery, servitude and imprisonment. That period of Joseph’s life is what I call “Joseph's King stage.”

Then Joseph became an interpreter of dreams. At the 2004 Democratic Convention, in the speech that brought him to the nation’s attention, Obama interpreted the American Dream in such a dynamic way that when he ran for President, this interpreter of dreams was elevated to administer the achievement of that dream. All of this was built upon the foundation of the culture, history and destiny of the African-American church at its best.

When I traveled to Israel over a decade ago, I was struck by the number of times I would see the following words: Never Forget! It hit me that much of the power of the Hebrew Bible is built upon one word, “Remember!”

During this historic season, I encourage you to “Remember.” Remember who God is and how good God has been to you. Remember where your family came from and where it is going. Remember how Jesus has never left or forsaken you. Remember your past, thank God for your present and move boldly into your future.

The words to Precious Memories were written by the legendary Roberta Martin and Georgia Jones. When King James and Queen Aretha sang the words, their soul power combined with these words are a moving combination:

Precious mem---ries
How they linger,
How they ever flood my soul,
In the stillness
of the midnight
Sacred secrets He'll unfold.

Precious mem-ries
How I prize them
As the weary years unfold
Jesus whispers,
"I'll be with you."
What a comfort to my soul.

When I heard New Shiloh Deacon, Larry Young, Radio station WOLB talk show celebrity and former State Senator, close out his prayer for President Obama’s inauguration with these precious memories, I was once again deeply moved and touched by the power of remembering.

Senator Young declared, "The Rev. Nat turner will open the inaugural celebration in heaven with prayers of thanksgiving, while John Brown assures his sons that the Harper's Ferry was not the beginning and that this Inaugural Ball will not be the end, but the dawn of a new beginning. Now, there's a grand foursome--Malcolm X and Betty Shabazz sharing laughs with Martin and Coretta Scott King. And my goodness; is that Rosa Parks out there on the dance floor with A. Philip Randolph? Seated at a nearby table, Frederick Douglass has a captive audience in W.E.B. Dubois and Fannie Lou Hamer; and Medgar Evers has just joined them.

Marian Anderson was asked to sing tonight, but she only agreed to do it if accompanied by Marvin Gaye, John Lennon and Jimi Hendrix. Look, there's Harriet Tubman. No one knows how she arrived, but there she is. And my guess is that, when the time comes, no one will see her leave.

Has anyone seen the Father of black America, Richard Allen the founder of the free African Society and the first bishop of the African Methodist Episcopal Church? Why, there he is with his partner Absalom Jones...

Thank God for Precious Memories.

5. THE STRUGGLES OF MORRIS BROWN COLLEGE ARE THE STRUGGLES OF THE AME CHURCH:

*Mr. John Thomas III

Last month another chapter in the tragic saga of Morris Brown was written as institution officials struggled to find money to turn the water back on for renting basketball players from Atlanta Metro College. While the necessary funds were raised, the students left because of the water outage. And if this situation wasn’t bad enough, Jordan Hall—a principal piece of campus real estate—found itself on the auction block. Thankfully, school officials were able to negotiate a reprieve in order to reach a lasting arrangement with the bond holders. In contrast to these dark tidings, the Atlanta Journal-Constitution continues to report stories of loyal supporters— including a teenager named Terrence McKenzie who contributed his trip money for Barack Obama’s inauguration to save his mother’s alma mater. While many persons and churches have given to Morris Brown in its time of need, more commitment is needed from the denomination that gave birth to this “haven for hungry souls.”

Morris Brown is an intrinsic part of our missionary work. It is a tangible manifestation of Richard Allen and Daniel Payne’s desire to minister not only to the spirit but to the mind. Indeed, I wouldn’t be typing this article today if it were not for Morris Brown. My father, aunts and countless other relatives passed through her halls. My family story is but one of tens of thousands. While the efforts of Bishop William DeVeaux, Dr. Stanley Pritchett and their collective staff have been truly Herculean, the Connectional AME Church can and must do more.

I remember the urgent appeals made for Morris Brown’s survival after the debt troubles ballooned and several actions taken by the AME Church CFO Richard Lewis. Yet, a comprehensive strategy to save Morris Brown involving the entire Connection never emerged. The situation at the school is no less dire now, but it appears that the AME Church’s attention has wandered. The school’s debt of millions is daunting. Compared to the money we raise to sit, talk and dine at Connectional meetings, however, it’s a drop in the bucket. (If you doubt this, ask the Connectional Meeting Planner). If we are to save Morris Brown, it must become a Connectional priority. Terrence McKenzie’s sacrifice is a model for us all. Our Bishops and lay leaders need to develop a plan to give Bishop DeVeaux and Dr. Pritchett the financial resources for this situation.

Money, as we well know, does not resolve all issues. The situation at Morris Brown is a wake-up call to the AME Church to be a better steward of its institutions of higher education. At some point all of our institutions of higher learning have had a crisis—many of them avoidable. If the vision of Allen, Payne and countless others is to survive, the AME Connection together must make honest appraisals and decisions about the future of the AME Church involvement in higher education. Without a clear vision, it is only a matter of time before our schools perish.

*John Thomas III is a Ph.D. Graduate Student in the Department of Political Science at the University of Chicago and a member of the General Board Commission on Seminaries, Universities, Colleges and Schools

6. AFRICAN AMERICAN BOYS CAN LEARN SOMETHING FROM PRESIDENT OBAMA:

*Dr. James B. Ewers, Jr.

President Barack Obama’s victory meant a lot to all Americans. His candidacy resulted in more new registered voters than at any other time in American history.

As we reflect now on his Democratic primary battle with Senator Hillary Clinton it is safe to say that this country was energized by seeing a woman and an African American compete for the highest office in the land. I believe that women everywhere hailed the accomplishments of Senator Clinton. Young girls are now thinking that they could someday become president of the United States of America.

It is in that same vein that I think young African American boys have also been buoyed by President Obama’s achievement. To my mind, I hope that that the bar has been raised for African American boys.

There are many aspects of President Obama’s demeanor that can serve as a road map for young African American boys. Obviously there are both seen and unseen traits that he has. At or near the top is self-respect. His self-respect did not just begin when he became successful. He had it as a child. As we all know, he was raised primarily by his mother and his grandparents. He also developed goals and had dreams at an early age. Somewhere in his thought process was that he had to factor in getting an education in order to achieve his goals. His respect for other people is tied to his own self-respect.

Throughout his march to the presidency, we saw that people of both races along with the young and the old were attracted to him. One of my old expressions is that in order to get respect, you must first be willing to give respect. I have long held the opinion that respect is earned and is not an entitlement. Obama has been able to move effortlessly through environments where the vast majority of people, at times, have not looked like him.

Another character trait that has endeared President Obama to the American electorate is his grace under fire. He had the ability throughout to deal with pressure packed moments and not show his agitation or frustration. As he said early on folks were examining his kindergarten papers yet he remained unruffled. His critics attacked the fact that he was black, yet he was undaunted.

One of the most defining moments for me was the speech that he gave on race in Philadelphia. It was thoughtful and eloquent; yet it is unfortunate that in 2009, race is still at the windowsill of our discontent. In his Philadelphia speech, he made his enemies his footstool and did it in such a respectable manner that he won over even more supporters.

His inner qualities and his outward appearance was simply a winning combination. His adroitness when it came to his communication skills certainly gave him a clear and distinct advantage. The naysayers of course said that “anybody” can give a good speech. Of course when you are losing you tend to make those kinds of statements. Obama’s appearance was always presidential with or without a suit and his trademark white shirt and stripped tie. His level of confidence transcended whatever he wore.

I hope young black boys have been paying attention and have learned something positive during this two year process that has led Barack Obama to become this nation’s 44th President. Do they see him as a role model? If the answer is yes, then self-respect and character must become more important in their lives.

African American parents and love-providers must become more proactive and we must raise our own level of expectation about what we expect; and more importantly what we are willing to do about it.

It is exciting that President-elect Barack will be in the White House soon, but it also means that each of us must take care of our house too.

While some will call it “uppity” it is imperative that our young men learn to speak correctly. We still have far too many African American young men who don’t see the advantage in speaking standard English. If young African males want to enjoy the many fruits of success, they will first, have to learn how to master the English language.

Not all black boys will go to Harvard Law School like Obama, but at a bare minimum, they must graduate from high school and get a job with a training component and advancement to it. Having at least an associate’s degree is now being seen as a means to achieve a decent quality of life.

Wearing droopy pants and oversized jackets will not help young African American men get jobs or respect.

Young African American males will not be a participant of President Barack Obama’s mantra of, “Yes we can,” when they are standing on the corner of despair and disappointment; and lamenting the system.

As African American males, we all have choices. I was young once and I, too, had some choices to make. Many of us older black men had the good sense to listen to our elders and followed their rules for success.

Young African American males can see someone who looks like them as President of the United States of America. But in all of their jubilation and exhilaration they must remember one thing and that is success won’t grab them, they must grab success.

*James B. Ewers, Jr., Ed.D is Associate Dean for Student Affairs and the Director of Community Partnerships at Miami University, Middletown, Ohio.

7. KENTUCKY LIBRARY AND MUSEUM KENTUCKY STREET BOWLING GREEN, KENTUCKY:

SATURDAY, JANUARY 24, 2009
9:00 AM -2:00 PM

Western Kentucky University and the Kentucky African American Encyclopedia Project will present a symposium on black life and culture in the Commonwealth.

The keynote speaker will be Dr. Dennis C. Dickerson, Professor, Vanderbilt University and author of Militant Mediator: Whitney M. Young Jr. The book has been named as Distinguished Book by the National Conference of Black Political Scientists. Dr. Dickerson teaches American and African American history at Vanderbilt University and is a member of Vanderbilt’s Religious Studies Department. An ordained minister in the African Methodist Episcopal Church, he has served president of the American Society of Church History and serves as Executive Director of Research and Scholarship/Historiographer for the African Methodist Episcopal Church.

In addition to his many publications and books, he serves as the Editor of The A.M.E Church Review, one of the oldest (1884 to the present)) scholarly church journals.

Dr. Dickerson is also a candidate to become a bishop in the African Methodist Episcopal Church.

Other presenters at the Symposium sessions include:

Maxine Ray, New Era Planning Committee, Bowling Green, Kentucky;
Mike Morrow, West Kentucky African American Heritage and Research
Center, Russellville, Kentucky; Dr. Saundra Ardrey, Associate Professor and head of the WKU Department of Political Science; Dr. Patricia Minter, Associate Professor, WKU Department of History and Karen McDaniel, Visiting Assistant Professor in the EKU African American Studies/Women Studies Programs and General Co-editor of the Kentucky African American Encyclopedia.

All sessions are free and open to the public. Refreshments and lunch will be provided.

For more information, contact Dr. John Hardin, 270.745.2233 or via e-mail: john.hardin@wku.edu

8. AN OPEN INVITATION FOR PERSONS TO ATTEND TWO EVENTS SPONSORED BY THE WORLD METHODIST EVANGELISM INSTITUTE OF THE WORLD METHODIST COUNCIL:

Submitted by the Rt. Rev. John White, Ecumenical Officer for the AME Church

Two coming evangelism events for this year at which pastors and lay persons are invited to attend:

1. The New Zealand Evangelism Seminar in New Zealand from April 28 – May 4, 2009, and,

2. The Africa South Evangelism Seminar in South Africa from August 18-26, 2009.

These evangelism conferences are part of a series of World Methodist/Wesleyan seminars being held around the world as we focus on God’s witness through our worldwide movement and developing missionary and missional congregations in our movement. The theme of each conference is: “That the World May Know Jesus Christ.” Please put these dates on your calendar, pray for our plans, and recommend these conferences to your pastors and lay persons.
The New Zealand Evangelism Seminar will take place from April 25 – May 5, 2009 (travel dates included) in Auckland, New Zealand, including the post conference tour. The early bird registration deadline with a $260.00 registration fee is February 22, based on a first-come first-served basis. The $450.00 per person room/board/tour costs due by April 1. The initial $100.00 airfare deposit is also due February 22 and the rest of the airfare of only $1,650.00. Our travel agent can also arrange special connecting flights at reduced cost.

The Africa South Evangelism Seminar will take place from August 14-27, 2009 (travel dates included) in Johannesburg, South Africa, including the pre-seminar tour. The early bird registration deadline with a $250.00 registration fee is March 25, based on a first-come first-served basis. The $500.00 per person room/board/tour costs due by July 27. The initial $100.00 airfare deposit is also due March 25 and the rest of the airfare of only $1,500.00. Our travel agent can also arrange special connecting flights at reduced cost.

Delegates should register on our website at wmei@emory.edu or you may wish to send nominations by email.

We pray for you and your Conference. Please feel free to copy these materials and send to key persons in your Conference.

Winston O. R. Worrell, Director
World Methodist Evangelism Institute
1256 Briarcliff Road
Atlanta, GA 30306
Tel.: 404-727-6344
FAX: 404-727-5236

9. ORANGE COUNTY CALIFORNIA PREPARES FOR “OC REV. MARTIN L. KING WEEK”:

The Rev. Mark Whitlock

The Black and Jewish Community celebrate the life of Rev. Dr. Martin L. King”

WHAT: Christ Our Redeemer Church hosts the tenth annual “OC King Week.” OC King Week is a series of events scheduled to celebrate the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King. “There would be no President Barack Obama if not for Rev. Dr. Martin L. King”, says Rev. Mark Whitlock

WHO: Confirmed groups and participants include: Anti Defamation League (ADL), UCI Olive Tree Initiative, Irvine Multi-Cultural Association, UCI Students, OC Ministerial Alliance, Oden Commission, OC NAACP, OC Black Chamber of Commerce, 100 Black Men of OC, Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, KJLH Radio, KOCE Public Television and Southern California Edison.

WHEN and WHERE: OC KING A Day of Dialogue: UCI Olive Tree Initiative, ADL and COR hosts a community forum between Muslim, Jews, and Blacks concerning strained relations in the Middle East. This coalition for peace in the Middle East believes in King’s non violent approach.

Wednesday, January 14, 2009, 7 pm at COR

OC King Film Festival: “Citizen King” A PBS Video explores the last few years of Dr. Martin L. King’s life beyond the civil rights movement, to become a champion of the poor and opponent to the war in Vietnam. This program is designed for youth and young adults. Dinner will be served. No charge.

Friday, January 16, 2009, 7 pm at COR

OC KING Day at COR: Dr. Richard Rose, University of LaVerne is scheduled to speak at COR’s Dr. King Day Service. The Irvine Multi-Cultural Association is being honored by COR for outstanding service to Orange County Community.

Sunday, January 18, 2009, 10:30 am at COR

OC King Lunch and Learn Event: COR sponsors a luncheon with the Irvine Multi-Cultural Association to gain a greater understanding of Dr. King. Dr. Richard Rose from University of LaVerne will lead a discussion on race relations in a post Barack Obama election era.
Sunday, January 18, 2009, 1 pm at COR

The 10th Annual Dr. Martin Luther King Scholarship Gospel Concert at the University Synagogue: Gospel recording artists, Christ Our Redeemer AME Church Choir, University Synagogue Choir, Bryant Temple AME Church, the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity and Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority steppers, and the Dr. King Man and Woman of the Year Awards ceremony.

Sunday, January 18, 2009, 5 pm at the University Synagogue, 3400 Michelson, Irvine, CA

OC King Worship Celebration: The Minister’s Conference Fellowship of OC sponsors the largest worship service honoring the life of Dr. Martin Luther King in Southern CA.

Monday, January 19, 2009, 11 am at Second Baptist Church, 4300 Westminster Blvd., Santa Ana, CA

About COR Church - Christ Our Redeemer African Methodist Episcopal (COR) Church is a multi-cultural and multi-racial church in Orange County. COR is the largest AME Church in Orange County.

For more information about OC King Week, call Rev. Mark Whitlock, Senior Minister, Christ Our Redeemer Church at (949) 955-0014.

Christ Our Redeemer AME Church
46 Maxwell
Irvine, California 92618

10. AN INVITATION FROM UNITED THEOLOGICAL SEMINARY:

The United Theological Seminary invites you to its January Intensive that will be held January 26-30 in Trotwood, Ohio (near Dayton). Many exciting preachers and lecturers will speak on the topic, “Training and Equipping Youth for Evangelism.” Bishop Violet Fisher will preach at the opening worship on Monday, January 26, at 11:00 at St. Margaret’s Episcopal Church, 5301 Free Pike, Trotwood, Ohio.

For a complete review of all speakers and locations, please click here: http://united.edu/academics/dminschedule0109.shtml

All events are free and open to the Public and no reservations are necessary.

The Rev. Josephine Whitely-Fields, Ph.D
Associate Dean of Doctoral Studies
United Theological Seminary
4501 Denlinger Road
Trotwood, OH 45426

Phone: 937-529-2201 X 3800
Fax: 937-529-2296
jwhitelyfields@united.edu

11. HOTEL INFORMATION FOR GOD FIRST-HOLY CONVOCATION AND PASTORS’ CONFERENCE:

The Renaissance Convention Center in Tulsa, Oklahoma is fully booked for the “God First - Holy Convocation and Pastor's Conference” that will be held in the 12th Episcopal District on March 5-7, 2009.

Please find overflow hotel information below:

Homewood Suites by Hilton - (Located one block from the Renaissance Convention Center), telephone: 918-392-7700; Rate: $104.00 + Tax

Dates Available for Reservations: (Check-In) - Wednesday, March 4, 2009 - (Check-Out) Saturday, March 7, 2009

Suites Available:
1 Bedroom King
1 Bedroom Queen

Group Name for Reservations - African Methodist Episcopal Church

Marriott Spring Hill Suites - (Located directly across the street from the Renaissance Convention Center), telephone: 918-254-1777; Rate: $104.00 + Tax

Dates Available for Reservations: (Check-In) Wednesday, March 4, 2009 - (Check-out) Saturday, March 7, 2009

Suites Available:
King Suite
Double Queen Suite

Group Name for Reservations - African Methodist Episcopal Church

For more information, call: 918-855-1727 and ask for Ms. Michelle K.T. Moulden

12. THE 14TH EPISCOPAL DISTRICT 2009 ANNUAL CONFERENCE SCHEDULE:

The Right Reverend David Rwhynica Daniels, Presiding Prelate
Mrs. Irene Moifoi Daniels, Episcopal Supervisor

COTE D’IVOIRE ANNUAL CONFERENCE
February 12, 2009 WMS Annual Convention
February 13-15, 2009 Annual Conference
Host Church: Bryant AME Church
Vridi-Canal, Abidjan, Cote D’Ivoire, West Africa
Host Pastor: The Rev. Kenneth Ansah
Host Presiding Elder: Rev. Shadrach Adamptey

NIGERIA ANNUAL CONFERENCE
February 19, 2009 WMS Annual Convention
February 20-22, 2009 Annual Conference
Host Church: Bethel AME Church, Iju-Lagos
Host Pastor: The Rev. Boniface Essien
Host Presiding Elder: The Rev. D. O. Sam

GDC- - GLOBAL DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL
February 25-27, 2009
Manzini, Swaziland (18th Episcopal District)

TOGO/BENIN ANNUAL CONFERENCE
March 5, 2009 WMS Annual Convention
March 6-8, 2009 Annual Conference
Host Church: Norris AME Church
Lome, Togo, West Africa
Host Pastor: The Rev. John Afawoubo
Host Presiding Elder: The Rev. Julien Segniagbeto

SIERRA LEONE ANNUAL CONFERENCE
March 18, 2009 WMS Annual Convention
March 19-22, 2009 Annual Conference
Host Church: Bishop Howard AME Church
Host Pastor: The Rev Eric Jones
Host Presiding Elder: The Rev Isaac Showers
Host District: Freetown District

GHANA ANNUAL CONFERENCE
March 11, 2009 WMS Annual Convention
March 12-15, 2009 Annual Conference
Host Church: Bethel AME Church
Accra, Ghana, West Africa
Host Pastor: The Rev. Collier C. Coleman
Host Presiding Elder: The Rev. Emmanuel Ofori11

LIBERIA ANNUAL CONFERENCE
April 13-14, 2009 WMS Annual Convention
April 15-19. 2009 Annual Conference
Host Church: Eliza Turner Mem. AME Church
Host District: Monrovia District
Host Pastor: The Rev. Takolo Miller
Host Presiding Elder: The Rev. Dr. E. Topoe Johnson

CENTRAL LIBERIA ANNUAL CONFERENCE
April 20-21, 2009 WMS Annual Convention
April 22-26, 2009 Annual Conference
Host Church: Geda AME Church
Host District: Central District
Host Pastor: The Rev. Cassius L. Barclay
Host Presiding Elder: The Rev. V. Bryant Kporyor

13. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

With regret we inform you of the death of the Rev. Glenn R. Collins, former pastor of several AME churches in the Indiana Annual Conference, 4th Episcopal District until illness prohibited his pastoring in 2006. Rev. Collins was also the Conference Superintendent of the Indiana Conference Sunday School for several years.

His service is Thursday, January 15, 2009 at 11:00 am with the family hour preceding. Please continue to pray for his wife, Bonnie, children, Deidre, Joshua, Brittany, Netra and Wanda as well as other family members.

The services will be held at:

St. John AME Church
1669 North Columbia Avenue
Indianapolis, Indiana 46202.

317 924-4044(church)
317 925-1001(fax)
The Rev. William L. Gary, Pastor

Mortuary:

Lavenias and Summers House of Funerals
5811 East 38th Street
Indianapolis, Indiana 46218

317 547-5814(office)
317 547-5098(fax)

14. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

This is to inform you of the passing of Mrs. Lucille Christmon. She was the mother of Rev. Kenneth A. Christmon, pastor of Providence AME Church, Indianapolis, Indiana, and grandmother of Rev. Kenneth Charles Christmon, pastor of St. Paul AME Church, Indianapolis, Indiana.

The funeral will be held on Friday, January 16, 2009 at 12:00 noon at Bethel AME Church, Richmond, Indiana. The family hour will be at 10:00 am. Please be in prayer for the entire Christmon family.

The funeral home is:
Community Family Funeral Home
101 West Main Street
Richmond, Indiana
Office: 765 983-2040
Fax 765 983 1912

The church is:
Bethel AME Church
200 South 6th Street
Richmond, IN 47373
Office/FAX: 765 962-7241
Rev Barbara L. Harris, Pastor.

Condolences may be sent to:
The Rev. Kenneth A. Christmon
4303 South C. Street
Richmond, IN 46374

765-966-4751
Email: kaca40@aol.com

15. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

We regretfully inform you of the passing of the Rev. Clarence Greer, retired pastor of the West Tennessee Annual Conference who made his transition on Sunday morning January 11, 2009, at approximately 5:30 am. Rev. Greer pastored several charges in the WTN Conference, including Mt. Pisgah, Millington, TN, Greater Payne Chapel, Memphis, historic Clayborn-Ball Temple, and Mt. Sinai AME Church. Rev. Greer leaves to cherish his memory, a devoted and loving wife, Mrs. Hazel Strong Greer of Memphis, TN.

Acts of kindness and words of comfort can be sent to Mrs. Greer at 885 East Drive, Memphis, TN 38108 or she can be contacted at 901-452-8458.

The family will receive friends on Friday evening from 5:00 pm to 7 pm at his home church Greenwood AME where the Rev. Hilda Taylor is pastor.

Funeral Services will be held:
Saturday January 17, 2009
11:00 AM
St. James AME Church
600 North Fourth Street
Memphis, TN 38107
Phone: (901) 525-2017
The Rev. Walter Reid Jr., pastor

Professional services provided by:
Jeffersons Mortuary
7788 Church Street
Millington, TN 38055

Phone: (901) 872-8800
Fax: (901) 872-4722

Dr. C. Robert Finch, Presiding Elder
North Memphis District-West TN Conference
2771 Colony Park Drive
Memphis, TN 38118
901.794.4025 Office/794.7844 Fax
http://www.northmemphispedistrict.org/home.htm

16. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

We regret to announce the passing of Carlton N. Tucker, of Los Angeles CA, brother of Gwendolyn T. Jenkins and brother-in-law of Rev. Cornelius E. Jenkins, (Retired Presiding Elder) of the South Conference, Eleventh Episcopal District.

Homegoing services:
Wednesday, January 21, 2009
Holy Cross Mortuary
5835 W. Slauson Avenue
Culver City, CA 90230
Phone: (310) 836-5500
Fax: (310) 836-3598

Viewing - 11:00 am (Pacific Time)
Mass (services) - 1:00 pm (Pacific Time)

The family request No Flowers; in lieu of flowers, expressions of sympathy may be sent to:

Tucker-Jenkins Scholarship Fund
Greater Allen Chapel A.M.E. Church
The Rev. Joyce Moore, Pastor
2416 S. Lipscomb Street
Melbourne, FL 32901

Or:

Beverly P. Tucker
RE: Scholarship
1633 W. 122nd St.
Los Angeles, CA 90047

Other acts of sympathy may be sent to:

The Rev. & Mrs. C. E. Jenkins
2403 Dunbar Avenue
Melbourne, FL 32901
Phone (321) 727-3418
Fax (321) 722-0970
Email: Cjen615360@aol.com

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
E-mail: 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.