Bishop Richard Franklin Norris - Chair, Commission on Publications
The Reverend Dr. Johnny Barbour, Jr., Publisher
The Reverend Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III, the 20th Editor, The Christian Recorder
Happy Easter! Christ is Risen; Christ is Risen indeed!
1. EDITORIAL – THE PASTOR IS NOT THE TEAM CAPTAIN, PART 2:
Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III,
The 20th Editor, The Christian Recorder
I said in last week’s editorial, “Too many pastors function as team captains. They lead Trustee and Steward Board meetings, take over the choir, take charge of the Church School, lead youth meetings, sign all of the checks and actively involve themselves in the details and in every activity of the local church.” The reason some pastors/coaches join and play as an active player on the church/team is because the church/team is not very good and if the church/team is going to be successful, the pastor/coach has to function as a church/team member as well as a pastor/coach. I suspect that Michael Jordan was the coach, player and team captain for the Washington Wizards because, at that time, the team was not too good; and without Jordan, the team would have been more dysfunctional.
Too many “pick up basketball games” type local churches
It seems to me that too many churches function like pickup basketball games. Everybody seems to want to do his or her own thing and the actions of individuals take precedence over teamwork. Organizations in the local church function independent of each other. Team captain/ officers and pastor/coach are often in adversarial relationships, rather than in a complimentary relationship, which results in a lack of loyalty to the church/team.
There is very little, or no authority in a pickup basketball game. In a pickup basketball game, there are no referees or coaches. There is not a de jure team captain, except that the “baddest and best” player usually serves as the de facto team captain; the position to function as the captain is not formalized, just understood to be so. Whatever fouls a player can get away with is the rule of the game. Fouls are committed and arguments and even fights start over an excessive foul or fouls that cannot be resolved. Whoever shouts the loudest or whoever is the “biggest and the baddest” usually prevails in disagreements over fouls in pickup games. Pickup basketball games tend to create conflict rather than order.
Some churches function as an ad hoc organization
Unfortunately some churches function like pickup basketball games – whoever is “biggest and baddest” prevails; sometimes it is the pastor and at other times it’s an influential member or members who might be reinforced by a large number of family members who belong to the church and/or by his or her relationship with the membership that developed over a number of years.
Effective organizations have to have someone in charge. A successful team needs a coach, a team captain or captains and members of the team must be committed to the team, respect authority and follow the leadership of the team captain and the coach, and when those three entities work together, the result, most often is a winning team!
Winning teams have players who are committed to winning and winning teams know the importance of leadership and authority. I disliked my first football coach at Rahway High School. I knew he was a racist; no doubt about it. Other team members knew it too, but that didn’t stop us from giving our best because we wanted to be winners and we couldn’t be winners if we were whiners.
You see a lot of whiners in pick-up basketball games and so often pick-up basketball games turn into melees and many of the games end abruptly. Player often quit in the middle of pickup basketball games.
Players that work together as a team become committed to the team and know the importance of team loyalty. Successful teams have few quitters because quitters are viewed as losers; and winners do not like to be viewed as losers. There were many cold and snowy football practice days at Rahway High School and I wanted to quit, but quitting was not an option because the peer pressure would have been too great and besides, I wanted to be a winner.
Winners and losers
There is a vast difference between effective churches and ineffective dysfunctional churches. Effective churches’ leadership and membership function as teams and experience growth; ineffective churches’ leadership and membership function like “pickup basketball games” and are most often dysfunctional and lack growth.
There are warning signals for dysfunctional churches. If a church as been in the same community for 50, 70, or 100 years and its membership, is less than say 100 and it is struggling to make ends meet, and other churches in the area are growing; something is terribly wrong.
There are a lot of large churches that are dysfunctional as well and there are warning signals for them too. Churches riddled with conflict, excessive membership turnover, high turnover of church officers, a lack of young people in the congregation, a history of not accepting pastoral leadership, uninvolved lay participation, low-energy pastoral leadership, Sunday-only ministry, and sanctuary-limited ministry are a few of the warning signals for smaller and larger churches.
Some large and small churches are so conflict-infected that church growth and ministry are severely inhibited and without outside intervention; will continue dysfunctional ministry.
Change – Yes churches can change, if they want to change
Dysfunctional churches need to face and admit their dysfunction and seek ways to reverse their dysfunction. Dysfunctional church with dysfunctional leaders cannot continue functioning the same way and expect difference results. It takes a strategy to reverse dysfunction and it takes a radical strategy to reverse or turnaround long-standing dysfunction. The strategy has to have the active involvement of the pastor/coach, the officers/team captains, and the members / players and often involves bringing in outside team-building experts. I am afraid that many churches do not want to change because they have become comfortable with their dysfunction. A church that wants to honor the Great Commission must be Christ-centered and focused upon ministry.
Anyone or any organization can change if they have the mind and will to do so.
The coach, team captain, and team model works at all levels
On the Episcopal District level, the bishop is the coach, the presiding elders are the team captains and the clergy make up the team.
On the presiding elder district level, the presiding elder is the coach, the pastors are the team captains and the clergy and presiding elder district officers make up the team. The local congregation is not the presiding elder’s team. The local congregation is the pastor’s team.
As sport leagues have divisions and divisions of responsibilities, so the church has divisions and levels of responsibilities and it is important that each level of responsibility knows its boundaries.
2. TODAY IS CENSUS DAY:
Today is Census Day. Be sure both to return your Census Form and encourage your family, friends and neighbors to do the same. If you haven’t already turned in your census form, please do. It’s a simple way to bring thousands of dollars to your community. Completing the Census Form takes only about ten minutes and all of the information provided is confidential.
If you have not received a form in the mail, promptly contact the Census Bureau at 866.872.6868.
3. READER RESPONSE TO EDITORIAL AND OTHER ISSUES:
- To the Editor:
RE: "The Pastor is not the Team Captain''
In your article "The Pastor is not the Team Captain'', why is it that you did not include the Class Leaders? It seems to me that we under estimate the importance of the Class Leader, when discussing the officers of the church.
Vertie J. Young
Bethel AME Church
San Antonio, Texas
Editor’s Comment: Thank you for the reminder, class leaders are an important part of the team. Sorry for overlooking the class leaders.
-To the Editor:
RE: "The Pastor is not the Team Captain''
I really enjoyed reading your editorial, “The Pastor Is Not the Team Captain.” I can’t wait to read “Part 2”
I must take issue with you, however, when you say in Part 1 that a person appointed by the pastor to serve as pro tem of the Steward or Trustee board becomes the team captain. I think such an appointee would more accurately be called an assistant coach. I say that because, as you say in Part 1, the captain is a member of the team. But more importantly, the captain typically is (s)elected by the team,--not the coach—based on the team’s trust of and respect for that individual.
Some might say any “team captain” who is a pastoral appointee is a captain in name only and can be expected to perform the functions and do the bidding of the coach (the pastor) rather than lead the team (the congregation).
Although elected by the congregation, there are times when Trustees seem to act more like assistant coaches than team captains. I believed that Trustees have a hard job if they function as The Discipline defines their responsibilities. .
Carol Bowie
Director of Lay Activities
Oak Grove - Detroit
Editor’s Comment: On my basketball and football teams, the coach(es) selected the team captain; the selection of the team captain was not done by the vote of the team. The team captain seemed to have executed the wishes of the coach and that’s what was expected. Most times it was, “Coach said…” Pastor may have failed to articulate the vision and failed to take the time to insure team ownership. In sports we all wanted to win; we had a common goal. Now, I am getting ahead of myself – Ever watch a pick-up basketball game, the fussing, the cussing and disorganization? A lot of our churches function like a pickup basketball game rather than an organized game of basketball. Let me stop here, lest you see Part 2.
4. AME IS STANDOUT BASKETBALL PLAYER AND HONOR STUDENT:
Late AME pastor’s son, Ronald Nored, is basketball star for Butler University. Basketball star Ronald Nored is the son of the late Rev. Ronald Nored, who served as the pastor of Bethel AME Church in Ensley, Alabama and Attorney Linda Williams Nored. Butler University will play in the NCAA Men’s Final Four tournament on Saturday at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis.
Tuesday, March 30, 2010 issue of The New York Times identified Ronald Nored as one of the players to watch in the Final Four. The article described Ronald as a “lock-down defender who will harass Michigan State’s hobbled backcourt.”
His grandparents are former Preside Elder Leonard Williams and Mrs. Deloris Kennedy Williams former Connectional WMS President. They reside in Indianapolis. His grandmother, Sister Deloris Kennedy Williams said of her grandson, “Ronald is also an honor student and a wonderful Christian” and went on to ask that we keep Butler University and Ronald in prayer.
Butler University was founded in 1855 by attorney and abolitionist Ovid Butler, is located in Indianapolis' Butler-Tarkington neighborhood.
Editor’s Note: I don’t know of any other AMEs playing in the Final Four, so I am pulling for Butler University because of Ronald Nored and because his late father was an AME pastor, his grandmother was the Connectional AMEC WMS President and his grandfather is a retired AME Presiding Elder.
5. AME CHURCH AND THE CITY OF DETROIT - PANIC OR PLAN:
The City of Detroit, once a mighty capital of modern industry, has come to the reality that it must downsize its physical size to save itself. Dave Bing, Mayor, announced plans which may include moving residences and services to more populated areas. The vacant areas will be used for urban farming, industry and future development. The major challenge Detroit faces is that the most populated areas are located in the center and portions near the borders. The middle and east side areas of the city are virtually deserted.
Why should the A.M.E. church be concerned? There are twenty AME Churches located within the City of Detroit. Of these churches, approximately 75% are located in areas potentially impacted by the planned changes. This represents almost a third of the churches in the Michigan Conference. Similarly, within the same Conference, the City of Flint is planning a downsizing of city services as well. Three A.M.E. congregations are located there. Moreover, these churches represent a large portion of the AME Church’s budget especially the Fourth District. The financial impact can be catastrophic.
This matter is only a symptom of the current state of our denomination; not only the problems facing the congregations in the City of Detroit. The authors of “Legacy Churches”, Stephen Gray and Franklin Dumond wrote,
There is no doubt the church in America is experiencing a crisis. We really have only two choices in the midst of this crisis: panic or plan. The crisis we face as a church can be viewed as a sign of the times, or as an opportunity to reengage the culture through the strategic, purposeful planting of new churches. It could be that we do a little of both by allowing our panic to force us to make good plans. We are at the crossroads over the next decade that could propel us into the future with greater effectiveness or cause us to fade away with nothing more than a quiet little whimper. The choice is ours, but we must make the choice with a great sense of urgency. (p.32)
Hopefully, the AME Church will not cede to panic, but develop proactive, soul-searching solutions. Instead of focusing upon the challenges, this can be the potential starting point of future greatness. An opportunity to restructure our congregations with thoughtful transfers, mergers and yes closures is at hand. This will require brave leadership and not simply knee jerk reactions to a crisis due to external forces.
The Book of Discipline of the African Methodist Episcopal Church 2008 does have a process for church development. The process is more grassroots and does not have the macro-level processes and procedures needed for this type of project. What is needed are research and analysis done on the Conference and/or District level to provide prudent recommendations that will help the whole area and be the best use of resources. Local pastors and congregations should not have to face this crisis or make decisions on their own.
This challenge can be considered a call to Action to the Connection towards Church Development particularly in the United States and Canada. If the situation is handled properly in the Michigan Conference, the lessons learned can be used as a model.
We should not fear the changes because God promised in Jeremiah 29: 11, “I’ll show up and take care of you as I promised and bring you back home. I know what I'm doing. I have it all planned out—plans to take care of you, not abandon you, plans to give you the future you hope for.” (The Message)
Sources: Legacy Churches (2009) by Stephen Gray & Franklin Dumond. Publisher: Church Smart Resources; Understanding Church Growth, 3rd Ed (1990) by Donald A. McGavran. Publisher: Wm. B. Eerdmans Publishing Co.; The Detroit Free Press/Detroit News
Orletta E. Caldwell
St. Stephen AME, Detroit
6. LAISSEZ LES BONS TEMPS ROULER:
The Rev. D. Sinclair Forbes
A Celebration of all celebrations in Key West, Florida as Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church under the dynamic leadership of the Rev. D. Sinclair Forbes celebrated the completion of a rededication of the church.
The great officers and members celebrated in grand style as they welcomed guests to an endless weekend of festivities.
The Celebration began on Saturday, January 23 with the Junkanoo Parade from the Martin Luther King Pool to the newly renovated and refurbished church which was reconstructed from the rafters to the floor and from the choir loft to the vestibule.
During the rededication worship service, Bishop McKinley Young, presiding prelate of the 11th Episcopal District electrified the attendees from the South Conference with his homily from Acts 2 which was entitled “The Ideal Church.” Bishop Young reminded us that “Only God is Awesome, Infinite, and Omnipotent.” We serve an awesome God. If we remain in God’s favor, we will be blessed.
In this ecumenical worship service, Dr. Randy Becker, who addressed the congregation, reflected on the fact that the original church downtown was burned by members of his race who did not want a black church downtown in the tourist metroplex. But the members of Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church had the courage and conviction to reconstruct Bethel from the ashes of racism and the smoldering fries of apartheid segregation.
Pastor Forbes and the members of Bethel received the flag of the “Conch Republic,” which has as its motto: “We [Succeeded] Where Others Have Failed.”
Bishop Young, the 109th Elected and Consecrated Bishop of the Church, led the congregation in the rededication ceremony: “In the Name of the Father, of the Son, and the Holy Spirit, We Rededicate Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church to the Glory of God and the Service of His kingdom and the human family.”
Attending this rededication ceremony were Bishop McKinley Young and Dr. Dorothy Jackson Young, Episcopal Supervisor of the 11th Episcopal District; host Presiding Elder John L. Bodison; Presiding Elder Jimmy James Thompson; and Presiding Elder Vincent Floyd Mitchell. Other guests included: Presiding Elder Ralph Wilson and Presiding Elder James Oscar Williams; and a great host of clergy and laity from the South Conference and members of the community ecumenical body of Christ.
Afterwards, a scrumptious meal in the style of the “Conch Republic” was served by the members of Bethel under the leadership of their erudite pastor, the Rev. D. Sinclair Forbes, who proved to be a gracious and humble host at the rededication of his charge at Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church located in Key West, Florida.
7. CELEBRATING THE “A” IN AME - CONNECTION, COMMUNITY, AND COMMITMENT:
*The Rev. Linda E. Mouzon
Words cannot always convey the dynamic flavor of an event. Such is true of the Second Episcopal District Founders’ Day convened by Bishop and Mrs. Adam J. Richardson, February 18 – 20, 2010 at Reid Temple A.M.E. Church in Glenn Dale, MD. The Rev. Jonathan Weaver and the planning committee led this spiritually uplifting experience.
The theme, “Celebrating the “A” in A.M.E.”, engendered a greater appreciation for our history and heritage, increased our commitment to extending our ministry internationally, and re-energized our yearning for a more glorious future for the church of Allen. As Bishop Richardson sagely averred, “At some of our churches in Africa the name that appears on the cornerstone is African M.E. Church. Framing our name in this manner, African M.E. Church gives credence to the significance of acknowledging our oneness and the pride in our roots that was emphasized by Richard Allen in advancing our Zion’s name.”
The Rev. Harold Mayberry, of First AME Church of Oakland, set the stage during the opening worship. Our hearts were set ablaze by a relevant and powerful word. Scriptures were read in four languages. The Founders’ Day Symposium featured two prolific scholars. Dr. Cain Hope Felder of Howard University and Second District resident biblical scholar, offered thoughtful insight into geographical, historical and archaeological evidence of the inclusion of Africa and African peoples in the scriptures. Dr. Dennis C. Dickerson, the AME Church’s Historiographer and Executive Director of the Department of Research and Scholarship, offered a comprehensive examination and critique of the life of Richard Allen, other early leaders, and the historical and contemporary relationship of the African Methodist Episcopal Church on the African Continent.
It would have been counterintuitive to celebrate the “A” without the inclusion of our siblings from African and Caribbean nations gracing the occasion. Ambassadors from several nations were recognized at a reception, followed by a banquet to the benefit of the Kittrell Development Initiative and the Religious, Educational, Charitable & Development Projects, Inc (aka RED, Inc). The event featured the KanKouran Dance Company that had us moving to the rhythms that have united us across the ages; and Nigerian singer, Ms. Abiodun Koya, whose melodious soprano in operatic genre, lifted praise and thanksgiving to God. Our keynote speaker, His Excellency Segbe Cyrille Oguin, ambassador of Benin, who spoke of a cooperative future in which peoples of color will help chart a better future for the world.
Desiring the celebration to be memorable, Pastor Weaver spearheaded a shoe collection benefitting the peoples of Haiti, and outlined next steps to include on-going dialogue with ambassadors, establishing collaborative projects to promote somatic and emotional wellness, economical and spiritual growth, and infrastructure development. Since globalization is more than a byword, it is necessary that we build upon the foundation inherent in our name and celebrate the “A” in AME. As Bishop Richardson pointed out, “Many people still don’t know that Africa is a continent with 50 countries and that the Middle East is located, in part, in Africa.”
*The Rev. Linda E. Mouzon [revlindamouzon@verizon.net] is Associate Minister Union Bethel A.M.E. Church Randallstown, Maryland
8. ALLEN CHAPEL AME CHURCH CELEBRATES CENTENNIAL:
Pam Hamlin
Allen Chapel AME Church, 580 George W. Engram Blvd., Daytona Beach celebrated its centennial anniversary on Sunday, March 14, 2010.
Under the leadership of Pastor Nathan M. Mugala, co-chairs, Sister Nella Roberts and Brother Tyrone Presley, committees were formed to plan the celebration. The theme chosen was, “We’ve Come This Far by Faith - From Vision to Victory 1910 - 2010.
“A lot of good things happen here,” said Bro. Presley. The community is reached through various activities. We have ministries for college students as well as adults.” According to Sister Roberts, who has been a member for 60 years, recalls “the hard times, how the cash-strapped congregation would pray. It didn’t matter about the time or day. They would turn to God and their faith. They had love for their church, “she said.
The church celebrated its centennial with a weeklong event beginning Monday March 8 with nightly worship services that were led by area pastors, and their congregations. It culminated on Sunday March 14 with services at 7:45 a.m. and 10.45 a.m. The Rev. Henry E. Green Jr. Presiding Elder, Tampa District, West Coast Conference, preached “Going to the Next Level”, Luke 5:1-10 at 7:45 a.m. He said that, he recalled stories on TV had theme songs. For example, The Beverly Hillbillies: “Come and listen to a story about a poor man name Jed, a poor mountaineer, barely kept his family fed, …the next thing you know ol’ Jed’s a millionaire and the kinfolk said Jed move away from there…”. He then talked about The Jeffersons and the theme song “Movin on Up.”
These two families Rev. Green said, “We are going to the next level. God has expectations of Allen Chapel to go to the next level.” He told the congregation, “Move out of your comfort zone to go to the next level; not only walk by sight, you got to walk by faith.”
Bishop McKinley Young, Presiding Bishop, 11th District that includes Florida and Bahamas, preached to a packed congregation at the 10:45 a.m. service. He told them, “This is truly a day of remarkable celebration; one hundred years. You didn’t get here by being careful. We are standing on the shoulders of black men and women who knew who they were and whose they were. We come from good stock.”
Pastor Mugala said, “We are truly blessed to witness this Centennial Celebration. This Celebration is significant in that it allows us to go back down memory lane and tell our story of how we made it over.”
Centennial events included: a commemorative church shaped magnet given to all that attended the service; a limited edition commemorative plate that showed the former and current church for sale; a painting of the former church for a donation. A fellowship dinner followed the 10:45 a.m. service in the dinning hall and a photo show was seen.
9. LOCAL CHURCH ADDS ANGEL FOOD PROGRAM:
Murph-Emmanuel AME Church in North Highlands, California, for the past several months, has distributed free food and clothing to as many as 300 families residing in and around the working class North Highland neighborhood.
Beginning this week, the 200 member congregation has taken steps to add an additional dimension to that outreach effort by becoming a host site for Angel Food Ministries, a national non-profit, non-denominational organization dedicated to providing affordable high quality food to individuals and families.
First established in 1994 to provide relief to struggling families in the Macon, GA area, Angel Food Ministries serves hundreds of thousands of families across 42 States. In 2008, the Angel Food Program provided $120 million in direct food assistance to American families by providing fresh, brand name food for a fraction of the retail price. By purchasing food in bulk directly from some of the top suppliers in the country, food is discounted by up to 50% of retail. A standard medium - sized box of food may be purchased for $30 and contains top quality food staples from every food group including chicken or beef, milk, eggs, vegetables and fruits. The menu selections vary each month and consist of both fresh and frozen items, helping individuals and families to save money without sacrificing quality. Participation in the Angel Food Program is open to anyone and, according to the Rev. Michael Barta, Senior Pastor of Murph-Emmanuel, there are no income requirements, limits on the quantity of boxes that can be purchased nor are there any applications or qualifications for eligibility. The program is also equipped to accept participants from S.N.A.P. (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program)
According to Pastor Barta, the Murph-Emmanuel Congregation is committed to continuing both its free food distribution ministry as well as Angel Food, its reduced cost grocery distribution program, to the residents of North Highland and the greater Sacramento area.
"The two programs serve different segments of our community" Barta said. "The free food program is designed to help folk with few, if any resources while Angel Food is there for folk with access to some resources who just need a little help in getting through the month. Both needs are real given today's tough economic climate and both groups deserve our help."
Murph-Emmanuel AME Church is located at 4151 Don Julio Blvd in North Highlands, California. Persons interested in obtaining more information about either of its food distribution programs may call the Church at 916.332.7749 or in the case of the Angel Food, go online to www.angelfoodministries.com
10. THIRD EPISCOPAL DISTRICT MID YEAR CONVOCATION COLUMBUS OHIO MARCH 18-20:
*The Rev. Gloria L. Sydnor Smith, Esq.
The Third District Mid-year/Founder's Day Convocation, hosted by Bishop C. Garnett Henning, Sr. and Episcopal Supervisor Ernestine Henning, focused on social justice issues within the African American Community. Presiding Elder Wilton I. Blake (Cincinnati District) conducted an early morning Bible Study class that addressed social justice issues from a Biblical viewpoint and also discussed the social justice issues that we face today; poor education, single parent households, ex-con re-entry, addictions, employment, and economic development.
The Reverend Dr. Mark Kelly Tyler, Pastor of Mother Bethel presented a workshop on the history of Social Justice within the AME church, entitled, "Richard Allen, Apostle of Freedom - A Model for Social Justice & Ministry." Rev. Tyler pointed out that the AME Church began with the activism of Richard Allen and Absalom Jones for walking out of St. George's when the Methodist Episcopal Church decided that African Americans should be subject to them rather than to God. Rev. Tyler effectively argued that church ministry is not limited to "preaching Jesus" in the pulpit. But the church must go outside the walls of the church to address social justice issues in this nation and the world.
There are social justice issues in our community that cannot be ignored. And African American churches need to do everything they can to address these issues.
Later, there was a panel discussion (Rev. Earl G. Harris/Rev. Madonna Gray/Rev. Dale Snyder/Rev. Shane Floyd), entitled "A Ministry of Social Justice," on ways that the AME church and its leaders can address social justice issues. There was a lot of discussion on jobs, improving education and the plight of African American children in the foster care system throughout the United States. African Americans need to invest its time and money in our children. We can create our own agencies and 501(3)(c) corporations rather than rely on others to "help" our children.
Instead of reacting to social justice issues, we need to take action and do something. As Rev. Gray stated, "It takes a village to raise a village."
*The Rev. Gloria L. Sydnor Smith, Esq., is the pastor of Whitman Chapel AME Church in Belpre, Ohio
11. THE 8TH YPD RETREAT THAT WILL BE HELD APRIL 16-17 AT BONNER CAMPBELL:
It is not too late to sign up for the Gospel Explosion. Please email Eighth Episcopal District YPD [ypd8th@yahoo.com] for further information and if you would like to participate.
Registration for the retreat is $15 in advance and $20 on site.
Rooms are available at the Comfort Inn in Clinton for $80. Please let them know you are with the AME Church.
Comfort Inn & Suites
5010 Hampstead BLVD
Clinton, MS 39056
601-925-8250
"AME Church"
Ritney A. Castine, Eighth Episcopal District YPD President
12. THE AMEC HIV/AIDS INITIATIVE:
The AMEC HIV/AIDS initiative was the fulfillment of a dream and answer to the prayers of the Rev. Bernard Smith. After numerous meeting with Bishop McKinley Young, members of the State of Florida Department of Health Bureau of HIV/AIDS, and the then active HIV/AIDS Action Committee of Greene Chapel in Largo, Florida and the future began to unfold.
Originally, seven churches within Hillsborough and Pinellas County Florida participated in a pilot program, which offered education and free testing to their communities. This program was very successful and was funded by Abbott Pharmaceuticals. The evidence of this pilot was presented to Bishop Young and the Westcoast Annual Conference. The Bishop McKinley Young then met with Tom Liberti, Chief of the Bureau of HIV/AIDS for the Florida Department of Health. The result of this meeting was the co-signing of a Memorandum of Agreement between the two. The purpose of the agreement was to establish a minimum of 1-AME Church in every county in the State of Florida. The HIV/AIDS Action committee began contacting the AME churches and disseminating information. By the end of the Annual CEC Conference, held during the month of July, 2009, a total of 80 churches signed up to be a registered test site or test location.
WAD 2009 was celebrated by all the Churches this is what we can do when GOD show his FAVOR upon his work.
Submitted by The HIV/AIDS Action Committee Pinellas County Florida
Edith Ellerson
The Rev. Bernard Smith
St. James A.M.E.
1436 South Madison Ave.
Clearwater, Fl. 33756
727-442-2336
727-480-6830 Cell
13. THE BLACK AMERICANS FOR ABSTINENCE AND PRO-LIFE TEENAGERS PROJECT (FOR GIRLS):
*Kim Wilson
The Black Americans for Abstinence and Pro-Life Teenagers Project (for Girls) located in the Atlanta, Georgia area has helped many churches and ministries to increase their outreach by implementing effective projects to help others throughout the United States and around the world, such as Goodwill/Jane Fonda Outreach Project; Atlanta Homeless Shelter for Women and Children; Christian Women's Home Business Network; God's Active People Anti-drug Project ("Get High on Jesus; Crack the Bible") and many others.
The Black Americans for Abstinence and Pro-Life Teenagers Project (for Girls) provides an effective workshop to help them avoid the negative consequences of pre-marital sex (such as unwanted pregnancies, STDs (sexually transmitted diseases), abortions and low self-esteem) and experience God's Best for their lives.
I travel to churches and various locations/events throughout the United States and overseas to conduct workshops.
I would welcome the opportunity to share this information with the pastors and denominational leaders of the African Methodist Episcopal Church.
I am excited to share about this project with AME Churches, as well as an opportunity to help the teenage girls in their communities to experience God's best for their lives through abstinence and Pro-life.
For additional information, contact Kim Wilson, 121 Ardenlee Drive, Peachtree City, Georgia 30269; Phone: (678) 491-8583; Email: kim.wilson@atnex.net; Website: http://new.vchurches.com/blackamericansforlife/home.aspx?iid=126958 http://new.vchurches.com/blackamericansforlife/home.aspx?iid=126958
*Kim Wilson is the Director of Black Americans for Abstinence and Pro-Life Teenagers Project (for Girls) located in the Atlanta, Georgia area
14. THE 143rd SESSION OF THE ALLEGHENY SCRANTON DISTRICT CONFERENCE CHURCH PRESS REPORT– CLAIRTON, PENNSYLVANIA
*Miss Shelly Brown
On Thursday, February 18, 2010, pastors, delegates, evangelists, presidents of missionary societies, presidents of lay organizations and youth representatives were received with the Joy of the Lord and with open arms by the host pastor, the Reverend Dr. Judith C. Moore, her husband, Mr. Leo Moore, and the members of First African Methodist Episcopal Church in Clairton, Pennsylvania.
The Reverend James E. Murray, Jr., pastor of St. James African Methodist Episcopal Church - Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania led Bible Study which was taken from I Corinthians 12:27-31. In this chapter Paul begins to address the issue of spiritual gifts and that spiritual gifts, though diverse, come from the same Spirit and are to be used for the benefit of all
.
The Reverend Dr. Eric L. Brown, Presiding Elder (candidate General Secretary/CIO 2012), called the 143rd Session of the Allegheny Scranton District Conference to order. The theme for this District Conference was “Moving toward Christian Excellence in Service” I Corinthians 12:31.
The Reverend Linda Moore, pastor of St. John AME Church – Bridgewater, Pennsylvania was the preacher for the Opening Worship Celebration. Reverend Moore utilized Mark 5:21-35 as her text. The theme was “Clear the Room”. Sometimes we have to show up where Jesus is. Jairus’ daughter was dying and he went to met Jesus. On the way to Jairus’ house, Jesus was touched on the hem of his garment by the woman with the issue of blood. Jesus is a multitasked (he can work on more than one situation at a time). As Jesus approached the house, people were weeping said and that the child. Jesus told them that she is just sleeping and they laughed at him. Jesus “cleared the room” of all distractions so that he could work a miracle.
The Reverend JoElla Williams, pastor of Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church – Tarentum, Pennsylvania conducted Workshop #1 entitled “Planning the year in the local Church”. It is very important that every church follow protocol. It starts with the Bishop providing his calendar; then the Presiding Elder, and finally the pastor of the local church. Plan your work and work your plan. A church violates The Book of Discipline of the African Methodist Episcopal Church 2008 if a monthly official board meeting is not held.
The Reverend Dr. Helen M. Burton, pastor of New Ebenezer African Methodist Episcopal Church – Aliquippa Pennsylvania conducted Workshop #2 entitled “Evangelism: How to Catch Fish and Clean them”.
The Ecumenical Worship Celebration commenced Thursday evening with the Reverend Dr. William Calloway, First Mt. Olive Baptist Church – Clairton, Pennsylvania whose theme was “He may not come when you want him but He’s always on time.” The sermon was taken from John 11:21. Reverend Calloway compared the church with Mary, Martha and Lazarus. He expressed how they represented what every church needs; a worker, a worshiper and a witness. He also used the phrase “stay in your lane”. i.e., complete your work and allow others to complete theirs.
Friday, February 19, 2010: The morning business session began with Dr. Brown introducing Reverend Dr. Eugene Schoolfield, II, Pastor, St. James African Methodist Episcopal Church – Erie, Pennsylvania. He conducted Workshop #3 –“Is Ministry a Calling or a Career?” Reverend Schoolfield declared that ministry must be a calling and not a career. Romans 1:1 states “ministry is by invitation only”. God will equip you for the job you need to do. You must meet these qualifications and prove the validity of your calling.
Workshop #4 - “Where Do Our Conference Claims Go?” was conducted by the Reverend Kary Williams, Jr., - pastor Payne Chapel African Methodist Episcopal Church – Duquesne, Pennsylvania. Our Conference Claims pay Mid-Year and Annual Conference Assessments, Presiding Elders’ salaries, pastors and delegates’ travel, and other district and conference requests.
God’s messenger for the Hour of Power Worship Celebration was the Reverend David W. Bethea, pastor Park Place African Methodist Episcopal Church – Homestead, Pennsylvania. He referenced Luke 13:1-9. His sermon “A Servants Plea – There is still time” calls for us to allow divine justice, divine mercy and divine grace in all that we do and ask for.
The conference was blessed to have the following persons visit from outside of the Allegheny Scranton District: Presiding Elder Percy Tate, the Youngstown District; Presiding Elder James Harris, the Cleveland District; Presiding Elder James McLemore, the Pittsburgh District; Brother Bert Odgen, a member of the General Board and Campaign Manager for Dr. Eric L. Brown’s quest to become the 6th General Secretary; Miss Lauren Bethea, a member of the Episcopal Committee and Park Place AME Church in Homestead, PA; the Reverend Arthur Doctor, pastor of St. Paul AME Church, Washington, PA.
Friday afternoon’s Business Session began with Committee reports on the 7 Point Plan for Growth:
Evangelism: The Reverend Acquanetta Osborne
Education: The Reverend Dr. Judith C. Moore
Evaluation: The Reverend Melva Hartzog
Expansion: The Reverend Kary Williams, Jr.
Emphasis on Youth: The Reverend Cheryl Ruffin
Empowerment: The Reverend Dr. Helen M. Burton
Economic Development : The Reverend James E. Murray, Jr.
The 6th Annual Musical Extravaganza certainly had everyone’s feet tapping and hands clapping as pastors and guests rendered Spirit filled selections.
Saturday, February 20, 2010: The 3rd Annual Sons of Allen breakfast meeting was called to order by the Allegheny Scranton District Sons of Allen Director, the Reverend Kary Williams, Jr. He explained the structure of the Sons of Allen in the African Methodist Episcopal Church which is to bring other men to Christ.
The organization of the 2009-2010 Sons of Allen of the Allegheny Scranton District is:
District Coordinator: Reverend Kary Williams, Jr.
President: Reverend Samuel Chambers
Vice President: Brother Samuel Chambers
Recording Secretary: Rev. Lawrence Haynes. Jr.
Correspondence Secretary: Brother Vernon Kelly
Treasurer: Brother David Moore
Morning Business Session Saturday, February 20, 2010: Greetings and updates from the following: Pittsburgh Conference Y.P.D. Director, Gwendolyn Cooley; Pittsburgh Conference W.M.S. 2nd Vice President, Barbara Lyles; Allegheny Scranton District Church School Superintendent, Valerie McElvy, Allegheny Scranton W.I.M., Reverend Cheryl Ruffin in behalf of Reverend Melva Hartzog.
The Board of Examiners Committee made the following recommendations:
2nd year course study: Licentiate Orbelle Henderson, Payne Chapel A.M.E. Church – Duquesne, Pennsylvania
The Memorial Service chaired by the Reverend Samuel Chambers who paid tribute to those who left the church militant and entered into the church triumphant. Those names were Wynon Chaplin – St. Mark AME Church, Wilkinsburg, Pennsylvania; Delphia Hughes – Bethel A.M.E. Church, Tarentum, Pennsylvania; Dina Gran Creighton, St. James AME Church – Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania; Michele Day Moore, St. James A.M.E. Church, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
Presiding Elder Eric and Lady Margo Brown expressed sincere appreciation to the Allegheny Scranton District pastors, officers and laity. They both expressed gratitude to the pastor and members of First African Methodist Episcopal Church for their willingness to serve and hospitality shown this District Conference.
The Spoken Word for the Closing Communion Worship Celebration was given by the Reverend Dr. Darlene Jenkins, pastor St. Paul African Methodist Church – Bellefonte, Pennsylvania. Reverend Jenkins text was Philippians 2:5-11. Her theme “Utilizing the name of Jesus” taught us regardless of your circumstance Jesus is able to break barriers.
The Resolutions Committee chaired by the Reverend Dr. Helen M. Burton marvelously entertained us as usual.
Presiding Elder Brown was the Chief Celebrant of the Holy Communion. He was assisted by retired Presiding Elder Samson Manoah Cooper.
All hearts and minds were clear as we were dismissed from this 143rd Session of the Allegheny Scranton District Conference.
*Miss Shelly Brown is the Allegheny Scranton District Administrative Assistant
15. THE HISTORIC EBENEZER A.M.E. CHURCH PREPARES WOMEN TO BE “POSITIONED FOR HIS PURPOSE”:
The Reverend Sharon D. Moore, First Lady and assistant pastor of Historic Ebenezer African Methodist Episcopal Church in Detroit will spearhead the 2010 Journey toward Women’s Day with two exciting months of activities with shared experiences that will encourage and train women to be “Positioned for His Purpose.” The Reverend Byron C. Moore is pastor of Historic Ebenezer AME Church.
Reverend Sharon, who also facilitates the E.A.G.L.E.S. (Expectations As God Leads Each Sister) Women Ministry at Ebenezer, says the theme “Positioned for His Purpose,” will offer insight regarding the necessity of spiritual positioning to cultivate the God-daughter relationship.
The spiritual relationship of each woman will inevitably be impacted by the intentional engagement in efforts that encourage spiritual growth, a ministry that will provide an atmosphere for women to be developed within the walls of the church. Women will then be equipped to minister to women inside and outside of the church.
The journey toward Women’s Day began on Friday, March 26, 2010 with “Marathon March Friday.”
The Women’s Retreat that will be held at the Colombiere Retreat and Conference Center is a two-day event (Friday and Saturday April 9-10) that will offer workshops, meditations and opportunities for women to bond and grow spiritually.
Friday, April 23, 2010 is “The Women’s Preach Fest Service,” where Detroit area women preachers will provide ministry.
From Sunday April 25 through Sunday, May 16, all women are asked to participate in a 21 day fast for spiritual positioning, purpose and promise.
On Saturday May 15, the 4th District Supervisor of Missions, the Rev. Dr. Cecelia Williams Bryant, wife of Bishop John R. Bryant, Senior Bishop of the AME Church and presiding prelate of the 4th Episcopal District will hold a “Sisters Summit” at Ebenezer A.M.E. Church. The summit will be a version of the International Women’s Prayer Convocation which was headed by Dr. Bryant, Reverend C, as she is affectionately known that was held in Toronto, Canada last year.
The journey will end culminating with a Women’s Day Celebration of historic proportions at Ebenezer.
For the first time in history, the only two Episcopal Supervisors who are ordained clergy will be ministering on Sunday May 16, 2010. The 7:30 a.m. sermon will be delivered by the Reverend Dr. Cecelia Williams Bryant and the 10:30 a.m. sermon will be delivered by the Supervisor of Missions for the 10th Episcopal District, the Reverend Dr. Jessica Kendall Ingram, wife of Bishop Gregory G. M. Ingram, the presiding prelate of the 10th Episcopal District.
The Reverend Sharon Moore is excited by the choice of speakers for Women’s Day. We are honored to have them deliver the word of God to the people of God.
The experience no doubt, will leave women empowered, humbled and “Positioned for His Purpose”
16. BODACIOUS ROBBERS:
*The Rev. N.T. Pitts
There are numerous references in regard to thieves and robbers throughout the Bible.
There is a difference between a thief and a robber. Their MOs is different but their goal is the same. The goal of a thief and a robber is to take the property of others by force and intimidation. The thief waits for the right time when he/she thinks that there is no one around or nobody is looking. He/she does not anticipate hurting or killing anyone but circumstances may impel them to do so. A robber has no reservations when it comes to killing or hurting an individual; he/she is prepared to do whatever it takes, and that includes killing to get what he/she wants.
The Old Testament book of Malachi asks the question, “Will a man rob God? Malachi 3:8. Will a man/woman be foolish enough even attempt to rob One who is omnipresent, omnipotent and omniscient?
One has to be awfully foolish or totally insane to even think about robbing such a one with such great attributes.
Many of us will hasten to say, ‘I have not, and I am not robbing God.
Malachi said, “You have robbed God through tithes and offerings.”
Many of us may boast that we have never robbed anybody, but don’t be too hasty in making such a declaration. In the Ten Commandments God gave humankind six days to do whatever he had to do, but one day he set aside to worship Him in Spirit and in truth. We have taken the six and most of the seventh and have reluctantly given God a couple of hours of His day; and we have the audacity to boast that we have not robbed God. How bold can we be?
We have robbed God by not acknowledging His graciousness and we are taking the credit for our accomplishments.
We have robbed God by failing to present our bodies as living sacrifices holy and acceptable according to His will.
We have robbed God by not using the time he gave us to teach our children His laws and statues and using it for our own selfish purposes while our children are being led away captive by the temptations of the world.
We rob God when we spend time talking about our good luck rather than about His good love. We are quick to say “I was lucky” rather than, “I was blessed.”
We must keep in mind that the things we do may surprise some people, but we can never surprise God. Using the phrase used by some athletes we are saying to God, “In Your face.”
Are you a bodacious robber? Think about it.
*The Rev. N.T. Pitts (Ptaegar@aol.com) is an author, teacher, counselor, humorist, and retired AME pastor who lives in Eatonville, Florida
17. EPISCOPAL FAMILY WEDDING ANNOUNCEMENT:
Brother Stan McKenzie, Episcopal Supervisor of Missions of the Thirteenth Episcopal District and Bishop Vashti Murphy McKenzie, Presiding Prelate of the Thirteenth Episcopal District, proudly announces the marriage of their daughter, the Reverend Vashti-Jasmine Murphy McKenzie to Amos Phénix Saint-Jean.
Wedding Ceremony: Saturday, August 7, 2010, 4:00 PM
Venue:
Ebenezer African Methodist Episcopal Church
7707 Allentown Road
Fort Washington, Maryland 20744
Link to their wedding website: www.jasmineandamos.com
The Bride
The Reverend Vashti-Jasmine Murphy McKenzie, affectionately called Jasmine, was born September 14th and is the second born to Episcopal Supervisor Stan McKenzie and Bishop Vashti McKenzie. A wonderful woman after God's own heart, Jasmine is caring and giving woman who is always determined to contribute to leaving a legacy. A product of Baltimore School for the Arts, Howard University (B.A. in Administration of Justice), Garrett-Theological Seminary (Masters of Divinity), Princeton Theological Seminary (Certificate in Youth and Theology), she currently serves as the Youth Coordinator at The Empowerment Temple African Methodist Episcopal Church. She is the former Corporate Travel Coordinator for Black Entertainment Television Networks.
Jasmine is also an Entrepreneur. She started her own company in 2007, The Soirée Firm, LLC which is an Event Planning and Logistics Management Company from which she has thoroughly enjoyed planning her big day along with her wedding events and aspires to offer her services to the world. She also enjoys working for her future husband's Independent Record Label, FamousAmos Music, LLC as the General Manager. She is a freelance photographer who's photo of our 44th President, Barack Obama being prayed over by the A.M.E. Bishops has been seen all over the internet and has been displayed in Museum Exhibits Nationwide.
The Groom
Amos Phénix Saint-Jean, was born September 4th to Mr. Amos Saint-Jean and the Late Altagracîa Saint-Jean. Amos is first generation American, the first of his six siblings not being born in Haiti, being the product of a Dominican mother and a Haitian Father. Amos is a determined individual who truly cares about the well-being of the people who are connected to him. Amos is the product of Maynard Evans High School and took a break from College studying Electrical Engineering following the passing of his mother.
Amos has been working in full-time music ministry for the last sixteen years. Amos serves as the Minister of Music at the Breath of Life Seventh Day Adventist Church and the Music Director at Evangel Cathedral. Amos has recorded two independent albums of great Inspirational music, In The Secret Place: Journey of the Soul, Vol. 1 and Tell the World. He has produced music for various award-winning Gospel artists. Amos is also the CEO of an Independent Record Label that he started in 2008 called FamousAmos Music, LLC and the owner of FamousAmos Music Recording Studios.
18. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
We regret to announce the passing of Mrs. Theodosia Claitt, aunt of the Reverend Miyoshi Taylor-Schenck, wife of the Reverend Dorrian Schenck, pastor of Bethel AMEC in Passaic, New Jersey (Newark District, New Jersey Conference) and the Godmother of the Reverend Calvin W. Jackson, pastor of Thornbury AME Church, Glen Mills, Pennsylvania. The following information has been provided regarding funeral arrangements.
Viewing, Tuesday, March 30, 2010 - 5:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
A. B. Coleman Mortuary
5660 Moncrief Road
Jacksonville, Florida 32209
Homegoing Service, Wednesday, March 31, 2010
11:00 A.M.
Saint Paul African Methodist Episcopal Church
6910 New Kings Road (US 1 and Richardson)
Jacksonville, Florida 32219
Reverend Dr. Marvin C. Zanders, II, Senior Pastor, Officiating
Interment will be in Jacksonville National Cemetery.
Expressions of sympathy may be sent to:
The Rev. Dorrian & the Rev. Miyoshi Schenck and Family
232 Howe Avenue
Passaic, New Jersey 07055
Email: BigBethel1@AOL.COM
Or
The Rev. Dorrian H. Schenck, Pastor
Bethel AME Church
145 Myrtle Avenue
Passaic, New Jersey 07055
19. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
We regret to announce the passing of Mother Annie Grace Patrick, the mother of Mrs. Sylvia P. Lett, the Consultant for the West Mainline District of the Philadelphia Annual Conference and the Mother- in-law of Presiding Elder Charles H. Lett, Sr.
The following information has been provided regarding funeral arrangements.
Viewing and Funeral - Wednesday, March 31, 2010
Viewing - 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.
Funeral Service - 11:00 a.m.
Mt. Zion A.M.E. Church
1312 Willow St.
Norristown, PA 19401
Phone: 610-279-8313
Fax: 610-279-6548
The Rev. Kanice D. Johns, Pastor
Viewing and Funeral - Saturday, April 3, 2010
Viewing - 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.
Funeral Service - 11:00 a.m.
New Spirit United Methodist Church
1380 Donald Lee Hollowell Parkway N.W.
Atlanta, Ga. 30318
Church: 404-876-6554
Fax: 404-524-5648
The Rev. Hubert Brown, Pastor
Professional services entrusted to:
Congleton Funeral Home of Germantown
67 West Logan St.
Philadelphia, PA 19144
Phone: 215-849-7327
Fax: 215-849-4782
Expressions of sympathy may be sent to:
The Rev. and Mrs. (Sylvia) Charles H. Lett, Sr.
245 Horseshoe Road
West Norriton, PA. 19403
Phone: 610-630-8913
Fax: 610-630-4447
Email: lettsr@comcast.ne t
20. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
We regret to announce the passing of the Rev. Kenneth A. Christmon, who passed away on early Thursday morning March 25, 2010. Rev. Christmon was the immediate past pastor of Providence AME Church Indianapolis, Indiana serving there for 19 years and had pastored for a total 25 years. He was married to Carolyn Christmon for 51 years and had three children: Darlene Christmon Washington, Marie Christmon and the Rev. Kenneth C. Christmon, Pastor of St. Paul AME Church, Indianapolis, Indiana.
The funeral has been held.
Family Address
Mrs. Kenneth A. Christmon
4304 South C Street
Richmond, Indiana 47374
kadmit1@aol.com
(765) 966-4751
You are welcomed to send flowers but in lieu of flowers, the family asks your consideration in supporting the following causes:
IVY TECH: In the name of Kenneth A. Christmon
Attn: Diana Pappin, 2325 Chester Boulevard, Richmond, Indiana 47374
For the work of advancing scholarships and institutional program support to assist students who are historically underrepresented in higher education or qualified as low income and first generation college attendees; and, for programs that advance the work of diversity and inclusion throughout Region 9.
IU Simon Cancer Center Research Fund
Gifts support cancer research by Indiana University Simon Cancer Center physicians and researchers. IU School of Medicine, Office of Gift Development, 1110 W. Michigan Street, LO 506, Indianapolis, IN 46202-5100
Memo: Urological Research - Dr. Thomas Gardner, M.D.
Please pray for the entire family. This is the third death in this family in 3 months. A brother died in December and his brother in law died in early January.
21. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
We regret to inform you of the passing of Mrs. Annie McKormick, the mother of Mrs. Annie R. Dockery, 1st vice president of the North Carolina Conference Ministers' Spouses; the mother-in-law of the Rev. John E. Dockery (retired), associate pastor of New St. John AME Church, Goldsboro, North Carolina, and the grandmother of Annette Dockery, the North Carolina Conference YPD Director.
Service arrangements for Mrs. Annie McKormick:
Sunday, March 28, 2010
Family Visitation: 2:00 PM
Funeral Service: 3:00 PM
Temple Memorial Baptist Church
1458 Cedrow Drive
High Point, North Carolina 27260
Phone: (336) 883-7023
Professional services entrusted to:
Gilmore Funeral Services Incorporated
1235 Montlieu Avenue
High Point, North Carolina 27262
Phone: (336) 882-8333
Fax: (336) 722-2884
Expressions of sympathy may be sent to:
The Rev. and Mrs. (Annie) John E. Dockery and Family
205 Mossburg Drive
Goldsboro, North Carolina 27530-9045
Phone: (919) 920-9386
Condolences may also be emailed to: Annette.Dockery@att.net
22. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICES AND CONGRATULATORY ANNOUNCEMENTS PROVIDED BY:
The Clergy Family Information Center
Bishop Carolyn Tyler Guidry, Chair
Commission on Social Action
Ora L. Easley, Administrator
AMEC Clergy Family Information Center
E-mail: Amespouses1@bellsouth.net
Web page: http://www.amecfic.org/
Phone: (615) 837-9736 (H)
Phone: (615) 833-6936 (O)
Cell: (615) 403-7751
BLOG: http://ameccfic.blogspot.com/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/AMEC_CFIC
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/The-AME-Church-Clergy-Family-Information-Center/167202414220
23. CONDOLENCES TO THE BEREAVED FROM THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER:
The Chair of the Commission on Publications, the Right Reverend Richard Franklin Norris; the Publisher, the Reverend Dr. Johnny Barbour and the Editor of The Christian Recorder, the Reverend Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III offer our condolences and prayers to those who have lost loved ones. We pray that the peace of Christ will be with you during this time of your bereavement.
Archive of The Christian Recorder Online from 2004-2016; Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III, 20th Editor of The Christian Recorder
