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
1. EDITORIAL – SCAMMERS AND UNSCRUPULOUS PEOPLE ARE STILL TAKING ADVANTAGE – LEARN TO SAY, “NO”:
Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III
The 20th Editor of The Christian Recorder
I recently received a telephone call about another scam. A person called one of our pastors, claiming that a niece of Bishop Richard F. Norris was stranded and needed assistance. Several years ago it was Bishop Adam J. Richardson’s niece who was stranded and needed help.
I thought that every AME was aware of the scam about some bishop’s niece being stranded and needing money. The Christian Recorder published information advising pastors to be diligent and to not be duped out of any money. Until the recent telephone call, we have not heard about any pastors being taken advantage of by the “bishop’s niece” scam. The scammers apparently “sat back” and let the situation cool, but apparently they are back in business and that means that pastors and officers in local churches have to be careful.
The person who called was duped out of over $3000; yes, that pastor is “out of over three thousand dollars!” As unbelievable as that sounds, scammers are not dummies and they know how to “milk” good, well-intentioned and big-hearted pastors.
Some pastors have a hard time saying, “No” and when they hear a hard-luck story, it is even harder to say, “No.” It might be a great exercise for those pastors who have a hard time saying, “No” to stand in front of a mirror and to regularly practice saying “No.”
I think if any of our bishops had a relative who needed assistance, any of them could assist any of their relatives who needed assistance. And, if a pastor was not sure or had any doubts, all the pastor would have to do would be to pick up The Book of Discipline of the African Methodist Episcopal Church 2008 and call the bishop’s office.
Come to think of it, that ought to be the protocol; if anybody uses the name of a bishop, general officer, connectional officer or a pastor, call the person’s office or home and ask if they have a relative who is in need of assistance. The contact information of the leaders of our Zion is in The Discipline.
Let’s be real, Bill Gates is not giving away any computers and we shouldn’t be giving away our hard earned money and we certainly should not be giving away the hard-earned money of our church members.
Let’s be careful how we handle the funds that have been entrusted to us, whether it’s our own personal funds or the funds entrusted to us as pastors and church officers; it’s called stewardship.
There are other scams
Ever wonder why you get emails from people and organizations that you have never contacted? Ever wonder why you get emails from people from Nigeria, England and other places around the world informing you that you have won a lottery? Ever wonder how they got your name? Ever get emails asking if you would like to order medical supplies and receive them discreetly?
I have noticed that we have a lot more of our people having their internet identities compromised. You can tell that has happened when you receive an email from someone you know who says he or she is stranded in England or some other faraway place and need money to get home. The message also tells you the address of the Western Union Office overseas where you can wire the funds.
The easiest place for scammers and unscrupulous individuals and entities to get your information is from multi-addressed emails. When you send multi-addressed emails, anyone can get your email address and some of your information, particularly your preferences. There is a lot of useful information in email messages.
The other way your information is compromised, happens when you sign up for different things on the internet and especially if you give them any of your personal information. If an email address begins with “https” it might be safe to provide personal information because it is a secure site. If an internet address begins with “http” without the “s” do not provide any personal information because it is not a secure website.
It’s important for all of us to remember that the computer and technology is a good thing when it is used correctly, but can create all kinds of problems when we use the internet carelessly.
We need to treat what we write on our computers with care. Like the judge on People’s Court said, “Say it and forget it, write and regret it.”
You may lose a document on your computer and get upset because you can’t find it. Take my word, you may not be able to find it, but it is not lost. If you committed a crime, everything you write can be found on your hard drive.
Email addresses should be proprietary; yours, as well as everybody else’s email address. When you put an email address where everybody can receive it, it is no longer proprietary.
When you FORWARD messages, REMOVE all email address before you forward messages and use the BCC field when sending multiple addressed email messages; and use the BCC field when forwarding email messages to several people. When we expose people’s email addresses we put them at risk for spammers and unscrupulous people who are trying to gain access to email addresses and other personal information.
And one more thing
You gotta be careful with social networking. If the computer of any of the people you social network with has a virus or infection, it can be passed on to your computer.
Don’t be quick to open emails from people you do not know or open messages from unfamiliar email addresses.
The best advice is to use common sense and follow your gut
No one is giving away free computers and no one is going to send you money. You have not won a lottery and you don’t have any friends in faraway places that are stranded and need you to send them money. Your friends who travel overseas know what to do if they lose their passports; and they won’t be calling you. You don’t have to sign up for any free offers and you don’t have to open every email that comes into your Inbox.
And, believe me, no AME Bishop’s niece is stranded and needs money.
2. READER RESPONSE TO EDITORIAL AND OTHER ISSUES:
- To the Editor:
RE: Challenge V, Reading the Bible from Cover to Cover
I have chosen to read The Story and as I approach Challenge V, reading the Story, I am constantly being surprised by...
1) How much I remember.
2) How much I don't remember.
3) How much I never heard of before.
4) How well I am keeping up with the task.
I am, at this point, one chapter AHEAD! I find myself looking forward to the next person in the "story" and the next battle or whatever is going to happen. I'm pretty sick of the Israelites and their adventures. Particularly sick of the battles. I've never liked wars. But I'm wading through all that and looking forward to a change of pace in a little bit. Of course, I guess those wars are never going to end since they're still going on and I'll see them again on tonight's TV news.
Thank you for the motivation and inspiration. This is something I probably would never have attempted if you had not introduced your readers to "The Story". On the other hand, by the end of this reading, I may very well be prepared to tackle "the real thing" - the reading of The Holy Bible in one year (or maybe less).
I am finding this to be an enjoyable task.
Name Withheld
- To the Editor:
RE: Bishop John Bryant…
RE: Cancelled travel to Israel
I salute the Senior Bishop and his team for charting the way and making public the church’s stance on what Israel has done.
We must continue to pray God to place in our midst Christian leaders who are responsive and relevant, most of all, like John the Baptizer, not be afraid of being the lonely “voice in the wilderness.”
Let us all be actively involved in matters that affect ordinary life.
Thanks to the AME Church and I am proud to be associated with it!
The Rev. Sekoboto J. Tau
Living Waters, AMEC
Strand – Cape Town
Republic of South Africa
3. THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER ONLINE, BREAKING NEWS AND NEWS BREAKS ARE PUBLISHED REGULARLY AND REGULARLY FORWARDED TO SUBSCRIBERS:
If you are not receiving The Christian Recorder Online (TCR Online), you might have one of two problems:
(1) Your mailbox might have been full. If after several attempts, The Christian Recorder Online protocol “kicks” the email address out of the system. When that happens, a subscriber has to re-subscribe to TCR Online (tcr@the-christian-recorder.org).
(2) The second reason you might not be receiving TCR Online is because your internet provider sees TCR Online as spam and a subscriber might keep find TCR Online in his or her spam, bulk email or quarantine folder. If that’s the case, try adding our, address tcr@the-christian-recorder.org to your address book. In many cases this will allow TCR Online to bypass filters and start coming to your Inbox again.
4. THE 2010 WIM QUADRENNIAL, PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA:
The Connectional AME Women In Ministry (WIM) invites to the 2010 WIM Quadrennial, which will celebrate 50 years of full-ordination of Women in the African Methodist Episcopal Church as Itinerate Elders. The event will be filled with powerful preaching, teaching and fellowship.
The Quadrennial event will be held in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania August 4-7, 2010 and is open to everyone; women, men, clergy and laity.
Presenters and preachers include Bishop Vashti Murphy McKenzie, Presiding Prelate of the 13th Episcopal District; Bishop Carolyn Tyler Guidry, Presiding Prelate of the 8th Episcopal District past President of the Council of Bishops; and Bishop Sarah Davis, Presiding Prelate of the 16th Episcopal District.
For more information and or registration for the Quadrennial:
Visit our website: www.amewim.com
Contact information:
The Rev. Cynthia Harvin
410-358-1743 or clhjoy@comcast.net
The Rev. Erika D. Crawford
914-668-4437 or nyamewim@gmail.com
*There is no onsite registration. Vendor application and Journal ads are available.
5. PRESIDENT BARACK OBAMA NOMINATES REV. SUSAN JOHNSON COOK AND REV. WILLIAM SHAW:
The Rev. Suzan Johnson Cook, former president of the Hampton Ministers' Conference, has just been announced as President Obama's nominee for the post of Ambassador-At-Large for International Religious Freedom. Additionally, Dr. William Shaw, President Emeritus of the National Baptist Convention, USA, has been nominated to the U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom.
Congratulations to Dr. Cook and Dr. Shaw.
6. THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER ADVERTISING RATES (2010)
ONLINE: You may submit articles and announcements in The Christian Recorder Online that is published with weekly updates. The cost is free, but contains no photos — only text. It’s a great way to reach online readers. For additional details, contact the Editor, Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III at chsydnor@bellsouth.net or 615-714-0986.
PRINT: You may submit articles with photos in the print version of The Christian Recorder. Color photos are $40 each and must be prepaid. Once you forward an electronic version of article and photo(s) and submit payment via check or charge card, your order will be placed in queue for the next available issue. Articles are typical for persons wanting to share a particular story or highlight and are published once.
ADS: The Christian Recorder is published bimonthly. Reservations must be made at least two weeks before the issue date and are subject to approval by the Editor, Dr. Calvin Sydnor III and/or Dr. Johnny Barbour Jr., President/Publisher. The AMEC Sunday School Union, the publishing entity for the AME Church handles advertisements for The Christian Recorder. The telephone number for the AMEC Sunday School Union is 615-256-5882; ask for Mr. Wright.
Persons wishing to advertise in The Christian Recorder must prepay by choosing from the following ad sizes and options:
Size No. of Issues Cost Dimensions (approx.)*
1/16 Page - 4 7/8 x 1 5/8
1 - $160
4 - $245
8 - $325
¼ Page - 4 7/8 x 7 9/16
1 - $255
4 - $585
8 - $965
½ Page - 10 x 7 9/16
1 - $385
4 - $1065
8 - $1805
¾ Page - 10 x 11 3/16
1 - $510
4 - $1525
8 $2605
Full Page - 10 x 15 1/2
1 - $635
4 - $1985
8 $3445
* The paper is 11 x 17; ads are subject to slight size modifications to ensure the ad has the maximum quality and good appearance.
7. DR. JAMAL HARRISON BRYANT SELECTED TO BE THE 1ST RECIPIENT OF THE JUSTICE THURGOOD MARSHALL LIVING LEGACY AWARD:
HOPE worldwide Baltimore Chapter is pleased to announce that Dr. Jamal Harrison Bryant, Founder and Senior Pastor, Empowerment Temple, is the 1st recipient of the Justice Thurgood Marshall Living legacy Award for his record of worldwide community involvement and leadership in the city of Baltimore, and abroad.
As pastor of one of the fastest‐growing, churches in America; Dr. Bryant’s ministry has become an international effort. He truly sees the nations as his inheritance having ministered in countries such as Africa, France, England, India, and Australia. A gospel globetrotter, he is truly the Word in action and every day is one step closer to fulfilling his life mission of empowering the world through the Word.
Thurgood Marshall
Born in Baltimore, Maryland on July 2, 1908, Thurgood Marshall, the grandson of a slave, was appointed Associate Supreme Court Justice, in 1967. Prior to his appointment, Justice Marshall established a record for supporting the voiceless American. Indeed, Thurgood Marshall represented and won more cases before the United States Supreme Court than any other American, while appointed to the office of the U. S. Solicitor General, before his subsequent nomination to the U. S. Supreme Court. Mr. Marshall was asked by the United Nations and the United Kingdom to help draft the constitutions of the emerging African nations of Ghana and what is now Tanzania. It was felt that the person who so successfully fought for the rights of America's oppressed minority would be the perfect person to ensure the rights of the White citizens in these two former European colonies. After amassing an impressive record of Supreme Court challenges to state-sponsored discrimination, including the landmark Brown v. Board decision in 1954, President John F. Kennedy appointed Thurgood Marshall to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit. In this capacity, he wrote over 150 decisions including support for the right of immigrants, limiting government intrusion in cases involving illegal search and seizure, double jeopardy, and right to privacy issues. Biographers Michael Davis and Hunter Clark note that, "none of his (Marshall's) 98 majority decisions was ever reversed by the Supreme Court." Thurgood Marshall leaves a legacy that expands that early sensitivity to include all of America's voiceless.
Please join us we present the 1st ever Justice Thurgood Marshall Living legacy Award to Dr. Jamal Harrison Bryant during the African American Heritage Festival Sunday Gospel Extravaganza Celebration, June 20, 2010.
Winston Philip, Chapter Director
HOPE worldwide Baltimore
Submitted by Ms. Nicole S. Kirby, Empowerment Temple AME Church Public Relations Director
8. STATEMENT OF THE JUDICIAL COUNCIL:
- Legal Representation by Members of the Judicial Council
“The jurisdiction of the Judicial Council shall relate to and be restricted to (except as may be set under “Duties” …) all final appeals from any adverse decision by any bishop, board, commission, group, pastor or any other regularly constituted party or body empowered to make a decision which affects the rights of any member or Church body of the AME Church.” The Book of Discipline of the African Methodist Episcopal Church 2008 [“Discipline”], Part XI, Section XX, A, pages 313-314.
To avoid even the appearance of impropriety, no active member of the Judicial Council shall represent any party (except self-representation), in any cause, before any bishop, board, commission, group, pastor or any other regularly constituted party or body, organization and/or entity of the AME Church nor may any active member of the Judicial Council represent any party in any civil, criminal or administrative matter involving issues in controversy against any bishop, board, commission, group, pastor or any other regularly constituted party or body, organization and/or entity of the AME Church.
To avoid an actual or perceived conflict of interest “any member of the Judicial Council who has advised, aided, or participated in any cause which may come before it for consideration, including those matters which affect any such member, shall disqualify himself or herself forthwith from any hearing and/or consideration of any matter of appeal, except as it relates to him or her personally and as an appealing party. In no event shall he or she take part in formulating a decision affecting him or her personally.” Discipline, Part XI, Section XX, G. 17, page 317.
RENDERED THIS 8TH DAY OF JUNE 2010
By: The Judicial Council Of the African Methodist Episcopal Church, Patricia Mayberry, Esq., President, AMEC Judicial Council
9. EMPOWERMENT TEMPLE AME CHURCH DONATIONS TO THE SOLES4SOULS HAITI RELIEF SHOE CAMPAIGN TOP 15,000 PAIRS OF SHOES:
On Sunday, May 30, 2010, Empowerment Temple African Methodist Episcopal Church announced that it was sending five thousand pairs of shoes to Haiti. However, by 12 noon the shoe donations continued to pour in and the donation shoe count had increased to 7,000. By 1:00 p.m., the number had increased to 8,000 -- and kept growing and growing to over 15,000 pairs of shoes.
The Loring Trucking Company dispatched a 52' tractor-trailer truck from Louisiana to assist with the transportation of the shoes from Baltimore to a transfer point for eventual delivery to Haiti. Area businesses that donated shoes include: Maryland General Hospital, Shoe City Shoe Store, Bank of America (Reisterstown Branch), and Patterson High School. A total of 15,000 pairs of shoes have been sent to Alabama and then to the final destination, Haiti.
Mr. Loring, the owner of Loring Trucking decided to donate his time and truck after he heard about the campaign. He wanted to “give back” to those in need because he remembered his family members and friends who experienced devastation from Hurricane Katrina and he knows first-hand what it's like to be in need.
Immediately after the devastating earthquake in Haiti, Empowerment Temple AME Church sent a substantial financial donation to support the daunting medical and rebuilding needs in Haiti, which were seen daily on the news.
However, after five short months, with little to no reporting on the status of Haiti, Empowerment Temple and Dr. Bryant knew the needs of the Haitians had not dissipated.
During the Sunday morning worship service, the Rev. Dr. Jamal H. Bryant, Pastor and Founder of Empowerment Temple church issued out another plea, “Walk a mile in the shoes of someone who lives in Haiti.” The realization “hit” the congregation that the things we take for granted, many in Haiti were without; even something as simple as shoes! Pastor Bryant said, “We understand that footwear doesn’t heal wounds, or alleviate hunger, but shoes certainly do play a major part in a person’s everyday normal existence.”
The challenge was given to collect 1,000 pairs of shoes in thirty days.
One week later, Empowerment Temple Church was deeply honored to have had the support from footwear companies, retailers, civic groups, churches, hospitals, and schools who pledged their support to help the hurting people of Haiti.
The call went out and the community answered in a resounding way. In thirty days, over five thousand pairs of shoes have been collected.
A shoe-blessing ceremony was performed at Empowerment Temple Church on Sunday, May 30. The shoes having been blessed were loaded into a twenty-foot U-haul storage truck that was delivered to a Soles4Souls collection center in Tennessee.
“Our theme is to give until it hurts. If ever there was a more important time to practice this value, it is now. The term ‘charity’ or ‘philanthropy’ embraces the broader core of living generously and doing good to ensure that the needs of others are met,” said Pastor Bryant.
Pastor Bryant founded Empowerment Temple AME Church in 1999, with the church’s first service taking place in April 2000. Since then the congregation has grown to include over 8,000 members, making it one of the fastest growing churches in the African Methodist Episcopal denomination.
Nicole S. Kirby, Empowerment Temple AME Church Public Relations Director; telephone: 301-440-6542; email: nkirby@empowermenttemple.org
10. SUPER SOARING SOUTH DISTRICT ILLINOIS CONFERENCE:
By the Reverend Charisse N. Woods and Sister Norma Gibbs
The South District of the Illinois Conference held its District Conference in April at Trinity A.M.E. Church in Alton, Illinois, where the Reverend Charles Gill serves as the pastor. The Rev. Gary McCants is the Presiding Elder of the South District.
The South District experienced three days of Spirit-filled workshops and worship services.
Presiding Elder McCants structured the South District conference innovatively by one minister teach on a topic, followed by a ten-minute sermon on that same topic by another clergy person. Some of the topics included: The role of the steward, the role of the trustee, developing a budget for the local church, and- how to utilize the media to reach the Youth.
The various preachers for the worship services encouraged the people to speak life to God’s people. They instructed clergy and laity to use the available resources to be active and productive men and women of God and to prepare others for the work of evangelism. Those who work for the Lord must be patient. Those who work in the Kingdom have to wait in the right position with open arms in order to receive the word from God and to receive those persons who accept the proclaimed messaged from God.
After three days of being in teaching, worship and fellowship the clergy and lay of the South District Illinois Conference returned to their local churches revived, refreshed and restored.
Every workshop was useful and the information presented could be utilized in local churches of the South District. Every sermon was Spirit-filled and enthusiastically received.
The members of the South District thank God for the leadership of Presiding Elder Gary McCants for providing the clergy and laity of the South District with useful information that will empower the people of God and will inspire ministry. Several persons who attended the District Conference exclaimed, “We are waiting with tip-toe anticipation to see what the Lord has in store for us at the South District Conference in 2011!”
11. DAVID FIELDING DECLARED THE WINNER IN ARKANSAS DISTRICT 5 HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVE RACE:
David Fielding, President, AMEC 12th District (Arkansas, Oklahoma) Lay Organization has been elected to the Arkansas House of Representatives. He will represent District 5.
12. AME, MRS. LORI WARD NEWLY APPOINTED SUPERINTENDENT OF DAYTON, OHIO PUBLIC SCHOOLS:
Mrs. Lori Ward, a member of New North Street AME Church in Springfield, Ohio has been promoted to the position of Superintendent of the Dayton Public Schools of Dayton Ohio, effective as of July 1, 2010. Mrs. Ward has served for many years in the Dayton Schools as an educator and recently held the position of Deputy to the Superintendent prior to this promotion.
Submitted by Presiding Elder Wilton E. Blake
13. AME PASTOR, THE REV. GERALD A. COOPER SEEKING COUNCIL SEAT IN CLEVELAND, OHIO:
The Rev. Gerald A. Cooper, a member of the Social Action Commission from the 3rd Episcopal District is seeking the office as a member of the newly created Cuyahoga County Council - District 8 in Cleveland, Ohio - USA.
Three commissioners will have oversight of county finances, as well as executive appointments. District 8 includes Cleveland Wards 2, 5 and 6, Garfield Heights and Maple Heights.
The Rev. Gerald A. Cooper, who has a law degree, is an itinerant elder in the African Methodist Episcopal Church. He serves as the pastor of St James AME Church in Cleveland. His wife, the Rev. Mila Cooper is also an ordained elder and the couple has two daughters.
Submitted by Mrs. Jackie Dupont Walker, AMEC Social Action Commission
14. THREE “GENESIS TO REVELATION – COVER-TO-COVER” BIBLE READING PROGRAMS:
- The 90-Day Plan of reading the Bible from Cover to Cover
Choose the Bible of your choice. Reading the Bible from Cover to Cover is not hard, but it does take discipline. The 90-Day reading program requires 12 pages a day. You can purchase Zondervan’s – The Bible in 90 Days.
If you choose your own Bible you can make your Bible in 90-day segments using the reading schedule from the website:
http://www.havenministries.com/schedule.pdf. I like to do that upfront if I am not using Zondervan’s, The Bible in 90 Days. I just take my time and mark the scheduled days, which are divided into 88 readings plus two grace days.
The 90-day reading schedule:
http://www.havenministries.com/schedule.pdf
- If the 90- Day program seems too aggressive, you might want to try The Story (See the information below). I have provided several reading options.
- The Story
I have listed below the options I developed for those of you who might attempt Challenge II, Alternative, using The Story:
The Story, also published by Zondervan, tells the Bible story in a creative way. It is condensed into 32 accessible chapters and “it sweeps you into the unfolding progression of Bible characters and events from Genesis to Revelation…and it reads more like a novel than your typical religious text,” even though it uses the biblical text of, “Today’s New International Version (TNIV).”
The Story has 422 pages of biblical text. As I wrote in the earlier message, discipline and commitment are the keys to completing the challenge. Choose the length of daily readings that is comfort for. Determine how many pages you would like to read daily or you may choose from one of the suggestions below.
- Read 20 pages a day and complete The Story in 21 days.
- Read 15 pages a day and complete The Story in 28 days.
- Read 10 pages a day and complete The Story in 42 days.
- Read 1 chapter a day and complete The Story in 32 days.
The Story has a list price of $24.99 but I got it on sale for $19.99. I just checked online and it sells for $14.99 at
http://www.zondervan.com/Cultures/en-US/Product/ProductDetail.htm?ProdID=com.zondervan.9780310936985&QueryStringSite=Zondervan
On Amazon http://www.amazon.com/Story-Bible-Pearl-S-Buck/dp/0517149818 The Story sells for $10.19 new and $8.50 used.
- The 365-Day Reading Plan of Reading the Bible from Cover to Cover
Appended below is Bible Gateway’s 365-Day Reading the Bible from Cover to Cover, which requires about 3-pages a day:
http://www.biblegateway.com/resources/readingplans/comprehensive.php
The Bible is an exciting book and it should be read by all. Reading the Bible from Cover to Cover is life-changing.
Now, you have no excuse!
15. A BRIEF HISTORY OF THE AFRICAN METHODIST EPISCOPAL ZION CHURCH:
We are called African because our forefathers refused to relinquish their heritage, we are called Methodist because have a method to our organization, we are called Episcopal because we have a system of governance, and we are called Zion to distinguish us from other Methodist bodies (e.g. United Methodist Church, African Methodist Episcopal Church, and the Christian Methodist Episcopal Church, etc.).
The African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church emerged out of the Methodist Episcopal Church, today known as the United Methodist Church as a response by African American to racism endemic in the church. As the numbers of African American parishioners began to grow in the John Street Church in New York City, they began to experience discrimination within the church. They faced being Methodist segregated in the balcony of the church; participating in Holy Communion and prayer only after the white parishioners were finished; and were denied the full privileges of membership that included ordination for those members who were called to preach.
In 1796 James L. Varick and about thirty other black members of the John Street Methodist Church petitioned Bishop Francis Asbury to hold separate meetings at the church. They did so until 1801, when they built their first church called Mother Zion. They continued to be led by a white minister of the John Street Methodist Church until 1820, when they officially voted to leave the Methodist Episcopal Church and published their own Book of Discipline. In 1822, James L. Varick became the first superintendent.
The church became known as the “freedom church” for its strong stands against slavery. Members include Harriet Tubman, Sojourner Truth, Katherine Harris, and Frederick Douglas. The early fathers and mothers taught the church and community about the ideals of freedom, and encouraged them to rely upon God and their own resources to make a difference in their lives and the lives of others.
The African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church (AMEZ) has 1,276,622 members and 3,125 congregations worldwide. There are 141 Annual Conferences, 12 Episcopal Districts, and 3,002 clergy serves 2,703 Parishes.
Ecumenically, the Church is a member of the National Council of Churches of Christ (NCCC) and the World Council of Churches (WCC). In addition, the AME Zion Church is active in the Congress of National Black Churches, the World Methodist Council, and since 1986 has been involved in ongoing merger talks with the Christian Methodist Episcopal Church (CME).
This article was taken from the Union Wesley AMEZ Church Website:
http://unionwesleyamez.org/briefhistory.asp
16. CENSUS BUREAU TAKES STEPS TO IMPROVE ACCURACY OF 2010 CENSUS IN MISSISSIPPI:
U.S. Census Bureau Director Robert M. Groves reaffirmed the agency's commitment to an accurate and complete count of everyone living in the Mississippi Delta.
Groves visited the region last week and participated in a 2010 Census roundtable discussion in Jackson, Miss., organized by Concerned Citizens for a Better Tunica County. Participants included Southern Echo, an African-American leadership organization; Sunflower County Parents and Students Organization; Mississippi Immigrants Rights Alliance; Tunica Teens in Action; Moving Forward Gulf Coast; and Mercy Housing and Human Development of Gulfport, Miss.
"I am grateful to our partners in the region who understand the significance of the 2010 Census and what it means for Mississippi," Groves said. "I look forward to continuing these successful partnerships and working closely with our trusted voices in the region to ensure that every person and all areas are counted."
While most of the discussion centered on local efforts to increase awareness about the importance of being counted, there were some concerns about the area's progress toward a complete count.
In response to these concerns, additional advertisements are being planned in Mississippi to encourage residents to open their doors to census workers and to raise the profile of local efforts to ensure a complete count in the Delta.
In addition, residents who believe they have not been counted are encouraged to call the Census Bureau's questionnaire assistance line at 866-872-6868 to complete their census forms over the phone.
17. THE HARDEST THING FOR SOME OF US TO DO-----APOLOGIZE:
There are some of us who would do anything and everything to get around apologizing. Webster defines ‘apology” as an expression of sorrow. There are times that we regret doing or saying something that was wrong, but some of us find it difficult to apologize even when we know we are wrong.
I don’t know what it is, but it puzzles me to see people, especially church-folk, who refuse to apologize when they know done wrong and they have been proven to be wrong of saying something they had no business saying.
Folk who have been baptized in one faith; folk who pray and break bread together find it hard to apologize. Some feel that it is demeaning. Some feel that it is too submissive. Some feel it is a sign of weakness. Others just have too much “pride” to permit them to apologize.
It is good a good thing to be apologetic as long as it is not synthetic.
Some of us apologize reluctantly and half-hardly. There is one thing for sure and that is we should never have to apologize for doing the right thing.
I recall, some years ago there was a popular secular song entitled, “I apologize” recorded by many great recording artists. In that song, if I can recall some of the lyrics, it went something like this:
If I told a lie, if I made you cry when I said good-by I’m sorry.
From the bottom of my heart I apologize.
If I caused you pain I know I am to blame
I must have been insane.
From the bottom of my heart I apologize.
I realize I’ve been unfair, give me one more chance.
From the bottom of my heart I apologize.
Keeping in mind that this was not a song written by church folk, but it has implications that people, especially church folk, should possess. We should never be ashamed or embarrassed to apologize when it has been proven that we had been wrong or offensive.
Being able or being willing to apologize is a sign of maturity. It is a sign of intelligence. It is a sign of compassion. And it is a sign of inward strength.
Some of us are in the arrears when it comes to apologizing. Sadly to say, but there are some who would go to their graves first rather than to apologize. What is so wrong to admit when we are wrong or said something that we shouldn’t have said?
Apologizing can break down walls that divide us. It can clear the air of suspicion. It can heal our selfish blindness. It can restore faith and trust in us. It can restore respect and confidence.
We should never apologize for going to church, prayer meeting, bible study and rehearsals.
We should never apologize for having a testimony.
Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego stood before King Nebuchadnezzar without an apology. Daniel did not apologize for praying. Peter and John stood before the council without an apology. Paul stood before the Council without apologizing.
So in closing, I recommend, that if you know that you have said or done something to someone that was wrong, be strong enough to go to that person and lift the load from your heart and apologize.
You will be surprised at how much difference it would make in your life.
Oh by the way, I do not apologize for writing this article.
The Rev. N.T. Pitts, ptaegar@aol.com, Author, Teacher, Counselor, Humorist, is a retired AME pastor who lives in Eatonville, Florida
18. EPISCOPAL AND CLERGY CONGRATULATORY ANNOUNCEMENTS:
- Congratulations to the Reverend Carey Andrew Grady, son of Bishop and Mrs. Z.L. Grady:
A New Beginning
"Haven't you read," he replied, "that at the beginning the Creator 'made them male and female,' and said, 'For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and the two will become one flesh?" (Matthew 19: 4-5)
The Reverend Carey Andrew Grady, pastor of Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church, Indianapolis, Indiana, will unite in marriage with India Nicole Clemons.
A New Story: Chapter One
The Reverend Carey Andrew Grady and India Nicole Clemons will begin their new life together in love by exchanging marriage vows on Saturday, the seventeenth of July two thousand and ten at two o'clock in the afternoon at the Abundant Faith Christian Center, 2525 Taylor Avenue, Springfield, Illinois. The wedding will be officiated by Bishop Z.L. Grady and others.
The Bride:
India Nicole Clemons is a native of Springfield, Illinois and daughter of Mr. & Mrs. Michael and Faye Clemons. She earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology from the University of Illinois at Chicago and K-9 teacher certification from the University of Illinois at Springfield. India is a Golden Key International Honour Society member, and currently pursuing a Master of Science in Education degree in Reading from Western Illinois University. Presently, she is a first grade teacher at Southern View Elementary School.
The Groom:
Carey Andrew Grady is a native of Charleston, S.C. and the son of Bishop Z.L. and Mrs. C.R. Grady. Carey earned his Bachelor of Arts degree in History from Howard University and a Master of Divinity from Turner Theological Seminary at the Interdenominational Theological Center in Atlanta, Georgia. Rev. Grady distinguished himself in undergrad as a Congressional Black Caucus Intern and later a Patricia Roberts Harris Fellow for the Honorable James Clyburn, the first African-American Congressman in SC since Reconstruction. Rev. Grady is a Certified Associate Chaplain with the Association of Professional Chaplains (APC) and has been recognized with many community awards: Minister of the Year, McCormick County Chamber of Commerce, "20 Under Forty" by the Mid-Central Illinois Business Journal, for excellence in Community Service and Work. Rev. Grady has pastored in S.C, Illinois and is presently the pastor of Bethel AME Church in Indianapolis, Indiana.
The couple will reside in Indianapolis, Indiana.
Wedding Registry #11635112: www.bedbathandbeyond.com
Congratulatory responses may be emailed to the Reverend Carey Andrew Grady:
pastorgrady@sbcglobal.net or yerac36401@aol.com
India Nicole Clemons: inc108@aol.com
Bishop and Mrs. Z.L. Grady: W1MG2CL@aol.com
- Congratulations to Dr. Latrecia Herring, MD:
RORSA Provider Spotlight - June News and Updates - Meet Dr. Latrecia Herring, MD
(LaTrecia Herring, MD is the daughter of Brother Samuel Herring and the late Rev. Shelda Herring of the West Tennessee Conference of the 13th Episcopal District).
Originally from Memphis, Tennessee, Dr. Herring relocated to the Southwest to join Cottonwood Medical Center, LTD, a group practice in Casa Grande that specializes in the care of adults and children. She trained in Internal Medicine and Pediatrics in Charleston, South Carolina and Miami, Florida.
"’Reach Out and Read’ is quite literally ingrained in me, as it was part of my residency training program and featured in our pediatric clinics."
What do you value most about being a RORSA provider?
"I like the idea that even before a child can speak, I am able to help encourage the development of language and promote the concept that books are a normal and necessary part of his or her life. Many parents still look to the pediatrician to determine what a child should and should not be doing at any given life stage. If we work to advocate the use of books in the home as routine, as bonding, and as a vital tool in development, the parents will trust this recommendation and continue as the child grows."
What is the single most important reminder/tip that you like to share with your patients?
"I like to share what I learned while doing intensive research on pre-verbal children and their language development during residency. Believe it or not, it's not all esoteric science! When children have more words spoken to them in the home--chatting, singing, reading, or a combination of the three--research has shown that their ability to acquire language is enhanced. When books and reading are routine, children seek it out for entertainment. I have advised young mothers to read magazine articles to their newborns; to talk about the soap, the water, the bubbles and the ducky while bathing older infants; to let a toddler choose his own book for bedtime reading; and to use books and book shopping as a reward for pre-school children. A child's brain lays the foundation for literacy at the very earliest stages of language exposure. The more words, the better, and books are an easy vehicle to share words and share stories."
What is your favorite book to share with families in the exam room and why?
"I have a few favorites. The Bright Baby series of chunky books for infants are bold, colorful, and pretty darned tasty from the looks on my patients' faces. For older kids, I'm old school: I love Maurice Sendak's "Chicken Soup with Rice: a Book of Months" and "Where the Wild Things Are," because I love that Sendak understands the journey children take with the stories they read. I could read when I was three. I grew up escaping into books for as long as I can remember, and still do even now. I especially love bringing books for four and five-year-olds to choose from into the exam room, telling them what a story is about, and seeing them choose the book that speaks to them. It is a gift they can give themselves for the rest of their lives."
(Copied with permission)
Congratulatory responses may be emailed to:
LaTrecia Herring, MD: herrinlm@yahoo.com
Brother Samuel Herring: samuelherring@comcast.net
- Congratulations to Melanee C. Harvey:
Congratulations to Melanee C. Harvey who recently received her Master's Degree in Art History from Boston University. Melanee is the daughter of Mrs. Sharon E. Jefferson of Dayton, Ohio and Dr. Louis-Charles Harvey, Presiding Elder, Potomac District, Washington Annual Conference, 2nd Episcopal District. Moreover she is the niece of Presiding Elder Emeritus Benjamin Booker Sr. and Mrs. Nell Harvey Booker of Memphis, Tennessee and Rev. Reginald Brock and Mrs. Gladys Harvey Brock of Nashville, TN. She has been admitted to the Doctoral program at Boston Universally and will commence study there this fall.
Congratulatory responses may be emailed to:
Melanee C. Harvey: Melcharv@gmail.com
Dr. Louis-Charles Harvey, Presiding Elder: presidingelderh@aol.com
Presiding Elder Emeritus and Mrs. Benjamin R. Booker: nbooker96@aol.com
The Rev. and Mrs. Reginald Brock: gbrock1661@aol.com
- Congratulations to Tricia Thomas:
Congratulations to Tricia Thomas, the Kentucky Conference President of YPD of the 13th Episcopal District of the AME Church who graduated from Paul Laurence Dunbar High School in Lexington, KY on Friday, June 4, 2010. Tricia completed high school a year early in 2009 and immediately began her college career matriculating at Bluegrass Community College. This fall, she will begin her studies at Northern Kentucky University majoring in Early Childhood Education. Tricia is the oldest daughter of Reverends Troy and Maxine Thomas, pastor and assistant pastor of St. Paul AME Church in Lexington, KY.
Expressions of Congratulations may be sent to:
Exhalemlt@aol.com ; or thomasrevtroy@aol.com; or futurelove92@yahoo.com
- Congratulations to Oko Kendrick Gogo and Akweley Kendra Gogo:
Congratulations to Oko Kendrick Gogo and Akweley Kendra Gogo on their graduation from Airport High School in West Columbia, South Carolina on June 2, 2010. They are the son and daughter of the Reverend Ago E. Gogo and the Reverend Tina R. Gogo. In the fall, Oko will attend Lander University and Akweley will attend Winthrop University. The Reverend Ago E. Gogo is the pastor of Mt. Zion AME Church (Jalapa), Kinards, South Carolina.
Expressions of Congratulations may be sent to: Gogotr17@att.net
19. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
We regret to announce the passing of Mrs. Gloria Reaves, the mother of Mrs. Yulise Reaves Waters. Mrs. Waters is the wife of the Rev. Michael W. Waters, pastor of Joy Tabernacle A.M.E. Church in Dallas, Texas. Mrs. Reaves transitioned to be with the Lord on Sunday, June 13, 2010.
Service Arrangements for Mrs. Gloria Reaves:
Home-going Celebration:
Thursday, June 17, 2010 @ 10:30 AM
Inspiring Body of Christ Church (new campus)
7701 South Westmoreland Road
Dallas, Texas 75237
Church Phone: 972-572-4262
Church Fax: 972-709-3888
Professional services entrusted to:
Black and Clark Funeral Home
2517 East Illinois Avenue
Dallas, Texas 75216
Phone: 214-376-8297; Fax: 214-376-1288
Expressions of sympathy may be sent to the Black and Clark Funeral Home (See address above).
Or
Condolences may be mailed to:
Pastor Michael and Mrs. Yulise Waters
Joy Tabernacle A.M.E. Church
Corporate Headquarters and Ministry Outreach Center
1409 South Lamar Street #412
Dallas, Texas 75215
20. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
Mrs. Inez Blackshear died in Syracuse, New York, Saturday, June 12, 2010. She was the aunt of the Rev. Cora Griffin Stovall, pastor of the Mulberry Circuit in the East Tennessee Annual Conference; the Rev. Archie Griffin, Jr., pastor of Allen Temple AME Church in Chattanooga, Tennessee, and the Rev. Etta Griffin Garth, retired itinerant elder in the 13th Episcopal District.
Funeral services for Mrs. Inez Blackshear were held on Tuesday, June 15, 2010 at 11:30 a.m. at the Farone and Sons Funeral Home located at 1500 Park Street in Syracuse, New York.
Expressions of sympathy may be sent to:
The Rev. Cora Stovall
1905 Bella Vista Drive
Chattanooga, TN 37421
funnyeyez@hotmail.com
The Rev. Archie Griffin, Jr.
7621 Boriss Drive
Chattanooga, TN 37416
gsandrajc@aol.com
The Rev. Etta Garth
4410 Delahmitt Road
Apartment 15
Hixson, TN 37343
21. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
We regret to announce the passing of Brother Willie Sloan, the father of Mrs. Kathi Hansberry. Mrs. Hansberry is the wife of the Rev. Tony DeMarco Hansberry, pastor of Greater Grant Memorial A.M.E. Church in Jacksonville, Florida. Brother Willie Sloan transitioned to be with the Lord on Friday, June 11, 2010.
Service Arrangements for Brother Willie Sloan:
Home-going Services:
Tuesday, June 15, 2010 @ 11:00 AM
Memorial Missionary Baptist Church
870 Branch Street
Monticello, Florida 32344
Professional services entrusted to:
Branch Street Funeral Home
750 Branch Street
Monticello, Florida 32344
Expressions of sympathy may be sent to the Branch Street Funeral Home or to Memorial Missionary Baptist Church. (Addresses above)
Or
Condolences may be mailed to:
The Rev. and Mrs. (Kathi) Tony D. Hansberry
Greater Grant Memorial AME Church
5533 Gilchrist Road
Jacksonville, Florida 32219
Email expressions may be sent to: kshans2@aol.com
The Rev. and Mrs. Tony Hansberry may be reached at (904) 545-3743.
22. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
We regret to announce the passing of the Most Reverend N. G. Inyamah, a retired Archbishop and Lutheran pastor from Nigeria on June 7, 2010. Retired Arch Bishop, Dr. N.G. Inyamah was the father of the Reverend Deborah C. Inyamah who serves on the ministerial staff at St. Paul A.M.E. Church in Washington, D.C., where the Reverend Dr. Lois A. Poag-Ray is the pastor.
Family Hour and Viewing: Friday, June 25, 2010
Viewing: 6:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.: Funeral service 7:00 p.m.
Grace Evangelical Lutheran Church
4300 16th Street, NW
Washington, DC 20011
(202) 829-9400
The Wake Keeping (Repast) immediately following the funeral service will be held at:
Nativity Church Rectory Hall
6000 Georgia Ave. NW
Washington, DC 20011
(202) 726-6262
Arrangements entrusted to:
W.H. Bacon Funeral Home
3447 14th St. NW
Washington, DC 20010
(202) 332-3352
Expressions of Sympathy & Condolences may be sent to:
The Reverend Deborah C. Inyamah
507 Madison Street, NW
Washington, DC 20011
Dinyamah@gmail.com
Information submitted by:
The Reverend Anna E. Mosby
Coordinator
Washington Conference Women in Ministry
The Reverend Dr. Goodwin Douglas, Presiding Elder - Capitol District
The Right Reverend Adam Jefferson Richardson, Jr., Presiding Prelate - 2nd Episcopal District
23. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
It is with regret that we announce the passing of Deaconess Leota Armstrong, the mother of the Rev. Neadia Riley.
Homegoing service will be as follows:
Wednesday, June 16, 2010
Visitation: 9:00 am to 11:00 a.m.
Service: 11:00 a.m.
Ward Chapel AMEC
2126 Prospect Avenue
Kansas City, Missouri 64127
The Rev. Roger D. Jackson, Officiating
Condolences can be sent to:
The Rev. Neadia P. Riley (Home)
7723 Haskell Avenue
Kansas City, Kansas 66109
24. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
We regret to announce the passing of Mrs. Alfreida Augman, the wife of Dr. William J. Augman, the Academic Dean and Professor at Payne Theological Seminary in Wilberforce, Ohio. Mrs. Augman passed on Thursday, June 3, 2010. Mrs. Augman faithfully served with her husband during his preaching and teaching ministry and will be missed by many.
The following information has been provided regarding service arrangements:
The funeral in Columbus, Ohio has been held.
Florida Funeral Arrangements:
Tuesday, June 22, 2010
10:00 am
Mt. Olive AME Church
2525 West Church Street
Orlando, Florida
(407) 295-6568
Interment - Greenwood Cemetery
1603 Greenwood St
Orlando, Florida 32801
Expressions of sympathy may be sent to:
Dr. William J. Augman and Family
1271 E Cooke Rd
Columbus, OH 43224-2059
(614) 261-6238
Email: Baugman@aol.com
25. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
We regret to announce the passing of Mrs. Decie Knight Smith. Mrs. Smith was the widow of the late Reverend W. H. Smith. She was a Life Member of the Women's Missionary Society - AME Church.
Family Hour for Mrs. Decie K. Smith:
Friday, June 11, 2010
6:00 -7:00 p.m.
Parks Chapel AME Chapel AME Church
1053 E. Selma Street
Dothan, Alabama 36303
Phone: 334-794-4811
Reverend William C. Slade, Pastor
Funeral Services for Mrs. Decie K. Smith:
Saturday, June 12, 2010
1:00 p.m.
Saint Peter AME Church
1277 Blue Springs Street
Clio, Alabama 36017
Phone: 334-397-2544
Reverend Dwight Ingram, Pastor
Arrangements have been entrusted to:
Central Funeral Home
1176 Dale Road
Eufaula, Alabama 36027
Phone: 334-687-1060
Expressions of Sympathy may be sent to her Daughter:
Joan Guilford
5914 Field Green Drive
Stone Mountain, GA 30088
Phone: (770) 413-2158
26. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
We regret to announce the passing of Mr. Thales Brantley, the stepfather of the Rev. Willie J. Heggins, pastor of Historic Mt. Zion AME Church, Manning, South Carolina. Mr. Brantley died on Tuesday, June 1, 2010.
The funeral has been held.
Expressions of sympathy may be sent to:
The Rev. Willie J. Heggins, Pastor
Historic Mt. Zion AME Church
RR 1
Manning, South Carolina 29148
27. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
It is with a great sense of sadness that we announce the passing of the Rev. Maude Burton, retired pastor and founder of the Jarena AME Church of Saginaw Michigan (Fourth Episcopal District, Michigan Conference, North District). Rev. Burton passed away on Thursday, June 3, 2010 at her home in Saginaw with her family at her side.
The funeral has been held.
Expressions of sympathy and condolences may be sent to:
The family of the Rev. Maude Burton
1 Salem Court
Saginaw, Michigan 48601
Phone: 989. 752-5554
28. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
It is with profound sadness that we announce the death of the Rev. Dr. Robert G. Balthrope, Jr., Itinerant Elder and pastor of Allen Temple AME Church, Marion, IN until March 2010. The Rev. Dr. Balthrope pastored churches in the 4th, 3rd, and 9th Episcopal Districts. He also served as Chaplain of Plainfield Correctional Facility, Plainfield, Indiana, and served on many Annual Conference Committees. He was a graduate of Clark State University, Payne Theological Seminary (M.Div), and United Theological Seminary (D.Min). Rev. Dr. Balthrope was married to Marilyn Butterman-Balthrope and the father of Jackie Jamel Balthorpe of Dayton, Ohio.
The funeral has been held
Expressions of Sympathy & Condolences may be sent to:
Mrs. Marilyn Butterman-Balthrope
4428 Par Drive
Indianapolis, In 46268
revsmarilyn@att.net
29. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
We regret to announce the passing of Mrs. Willie Mae Rutledge, widow of the late Presiding Elder G. A. Rutledge, and former President of the Eleventh Episcopal District Ministers' Spouses Alliance, and Life Member of the Women's Missionary Society. Mrs. Rutledge went home to be with the Lord on Wednesday, June 2, 2010. She was the mother of Esther Snowden of Plant City, FL, DMC Commissioner of the West Coast Conference, Vashti Williams, Jacksonville, FL, and Lois Rutledge, Plant City, FL.
The funeral has been held.
Condolences may be sent to:
Mrs. Esther Snowden
4606 Musket Drive
Lakeland, FL 33810
(863) 640-1628
Or expressions of sympathy may be emailed to: snolg@aol.com
30. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
We regret to announce the passing of Mr. Billy Ray Clegg, brother of Mrs. Allene Allen and brother-in-law of Presiding Elder Thomas G. Allen (Little Rock District-Arkansas Conference, 12th Episcopal District).
The funeral has been held
Condolences may be sent to:
Presiding Elder and Mrs. Thomas G. Allen
#5 Saxony
Little Rock, Arkansas 72209
Phone: 501-562-7902
31. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
We regret to announce the passing of Mr. Fred L. Howard, Jr., the husband of Rev. Felicia Howard passed away on Thursday, May 27, 2010. Rev. Howard is an Associate Minister at Bethel AME Church in Ardmore, PA (Philadelphia Conference, West Mainline District). The following information has been provided regarding funeral arrangements.
The funeral has been held.
Expressions of sympathy and condolences may be sent to:
The Rev. Felicia Howard
C/o Bethel A.M.E. Church
163 Sheldon Lane
Ardmore, PA 19003
32. 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
33. 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
