Bishop
T. Larry Kirkland - 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 –MINISTERIAL
PROFESSIONALISM, MINISTERIAL ETHICS AND ETIQUETTE FOR THE PRESENT AGE (PART 1):
Dr.
Calvin H. Sydnor III
The 20th
Editor of The Christian Recorder
I don’t hear much about ministerial ethics and
etiquette anymore. Maybe I have that perception because I am not a pastor. I
think that we have stopped talking about ministerial professionalism and
ministerial ethics and etiquette because we live in a more open and permissive
environment. I think “we” assume people know right from wrong behavior we want
to be careful not to offend because we live in a litigious environment.
Early in my ministry, preachers talked a lot about ministerial ethics and etiquette because clergy leaders wanted those entering the ministry to understand the rules of conduct and the rules of the profession. Every profession has its culture and unique rules of conduct and rules for success.
I remember vividly when I took upper level
education courses at Cheyney University, a number of class discussions focused
on professionalism. The discussions
focused upon how teachers were expected to act in the classroom, appropriate
dress, and how to relate to students, peers and superiors. Those discussions were helpful for me and
carried over to the ministry.
Before being approved for student-teaching, we
had to have a statement from a dentist and had to get any dental deficiencies
corrected. Those entering the teaching profession had to correct distracting
dental deficiencies and an up-to-date physical examination was also
required.
It might be time for the African
Methodist Episcopal Church to review the
need for, and provide training in ministerial professionalism, ethics and
etiquette because there have been a lot of changes in the ministry.
Not only in the AME Church
Several years ago, I had a Roman Catholic
priest friend who shared his experience of working with young priests. He commented that he didn’t understand some
of their behavior and went on to explain that many of them refused to do the
early morning daily Masses because they didn’t find early morning Masses
meaningful.
In many Protestant churches and even in our
Zion, preachers seem more freed up in way they act and in the way they dress. I
don’t know if televangelists have contributed to the independent attitude of
some of our pastors. I recall surfing the television channels a couple of years
ago and seeing one televangelist wearing a tee-shirt that looked like what one
would wear to the gym for a weight-lifting session.
But, in the AME Church too
I have heard and read some statements from
pastors that indicate that we need to reemphasize ministerial
professionalism. The internet has opened
some doors that members of the clergy “should not walk through.” Some
conversations need to stay private, and if spoken, spoken in clergy-only
conversations. I suspect that it’s time to review AME Church ministerial
professionalism, ethics and etiquette.
Things have changed
I am old enough to remember when pastors wore
suits and neckties or clergy collars to church and pastors preached in
robes.
I remember when I was pastoring St. James AME
Church in Danville, Kentucky and had run out of ice when I was barbequing. I was cooking in shorts and went uptown to
cash a check at the bank before picking up the ice and other items. And, wouldn’t you know, Mrs. Gertrude Sledd,
a steward happened to be uptown and saw me before I saw her! After some small
talk, Mrs. Sledd ended the conversation, “Reverend, our pastor doesn’t come
uptown in shorts.” I appreciated her
honesty and she had non-threatening way providing guidance for a young pastor
in his twenties.
Things have changed and I am sure Mrs. Sledd
and other long-departed “saints” would be surprised at the changes that have
taken place in the ministry today.
Back in “the day”
“In the day” male preachers could be
identified by their dress and demeanor and the few women preachers in the
conference dressed “to code” and you could identify them by their dress and by
their demeanor. Today, male and female clergy wear what they want to wear.
Spouses, mostly “first ladies in the day,” had
strict codes of dress and conduct. They were expected to act a certain way and
most of them acted according to script.
There was a protocol for the children of the
first family. I suspect that a lot of preachers’ kids rebelled because of the
pressures placed on them and the pressures they saw placed on their families.
Some things need to change for those in the ministry
I hope local church officers and parishioners
have “lightened up” on first families. Preachers and their families are human
and clergy families experience the same challenges as other families; and I
suspect that pastors who live in parsonages face even more challenges,
especially if they serve in fulltime ministry.
Dress has and many pastors dress more relaxed,
but clergy dress should be modest. The zoot-suit, super-fly image went out of
style years ago. Parishioners have shared that they should be able to
distinguish a preacher from a pimp and should be able to distinguish a preacher
from a hooker; a clear line should be drawn between modesty and bling-bling
excess.
My grandmother used to say, “Common sense will
get you to most places you are trying go; just use a little common sense.” I agree with the Rev. Joseph Darby’s
mother’s statement to him when
he returned home from college looking like the “archetype of a 1970s Black
Power activist.” She said, “Wear whatever
you want on the outside, but make sure what’s on the inside is good.”
Technology has precipitated the need for review
Technology has brought a lot of changes in the
way we interact with each other and information is transmitted around the world
in nanoseconds. Photographs can be taken of people who are unaware that they
are being photographed. The problem can be exacerbated when individuals find
out that their photographs have been posted on social networking sites without
their knowledge. Photos can be instantaneously downloaded on Facebook and other
social networking platforms.
Sermons can be accessed from the internet and
some preachers might be tempted to use “canned messages.” Of course the use of “canned” messages is
nothing new, but the internet just makes it quicker and easier.
I realized a chaplain was preaching a
wonderful sermon from a book when the pages of his sermon were blown off of the
pulpit. The pages had been torn from the book. Apparently he was too lazy to
copy the sermon in his own handwriting.
Another instance happened in an AME Church
when a local preacher who had never attended college or seminary preached the
most elegant sermon that was written by Charles H. Spurgeon.
Some things need to remain the same for clergy
Things have changed and things will continue
to change. And though things change, and change can be a good thing; there are
some things that need to remain the same and clergy
must be as vigilant in today as it has been in the past.
The African Methodist Episcopal Church, from its beginning, has always
considered ministerial conduct important in the life of the Church. Ministerial professionalism, ministerial
ethics and etiquette are important in the life of the Church.
Let me give you a few examples of things that need to remain the same …
(To be continued in the next issue)
2. READER RESPONSE TO EDITORIAL AND OTHER
ISSUES:
- To the Editor:
RE: Editorial: The Discipline - If We Just Follow The Rules
Your editorial - The
Discipline - If We Just Follow The Rules was right on point and so
well written. It was most inspiring
encouraging.
Thank you
Linda D. Simmons
Turner Memorial A.M.E. Church
Hyattsville, Maryland
3. THE COUNCIL OF BISHOPS 17TH EPISCOPAL DISTRICT TRAGEDY
UPDATE:
September
24, 2012
Sunday,
the 16th of September 2012, will long be remembered as the day in the life of African Methodism when
the lives of ten members of the North West Zambia Annual Conference of the 17th
Episcopal District were lost in a fatal vehicle accident as they headed home
following their Annual Conference.
This
tragic lost in the 17th District family has touched the hearts of all of us in
African Methodism and we too mourn with our sisters and brothers who are
mourning. We are reminded through this tragedy both of the fragility of life
and the preciousness of every moment we are given.
The
Council of Bishops of the African Methodist Episcopal Church and the African
Methodist Episcopal Church family worldwide offer heartfelt sympathy to Bishop
Wilfred and Supervisor Carol Messiah, the families of those who lost their
lives, and the 17th Episcopal
District Church family. We continue in
prayer for those who are yet in hospitals fighting for their lives as we also
continue in prayer for God’s comfort and healing of broken hearts of the
families who have lost loved ones.
For all
who wish to make financial contributions for the support of the bereaved
families and/or give to those who are in critical conditions in the hospitals,
please take advantage of the special arrangements that have been made with the
Connectional Women's Missionary Society Office in Washington, DC through the
International President Dr. Shirley Casson Reed. Contributions can be made by check or credit
card.
Checks
should be made payable to the Women's Missionary Society, indicating 17th
Episcopal District in the bottom left hand corner of the check and mailed to:
Women's
Missionary Society Headquarters
1134 -
11th Street NW
Washington,
DC 20001.
For
Credit Card payments, please contact the WMS office at 1-202-371-8886.
The
African Methodist Episcopal Church lifts up Bishop Wilfred and Supervisor Carol
Messiah and the 17th Episcopal District to the Lord who is able to do more than
we can ever ask or imagine in times such as these.
Blessings
and peace,
/s/
Bishop
Samuel Green, Sr.
President
of the Council of Bishops
African
Methodist Episcopal Church
4. BISHOP SARAH F. DAVIS TO REPRESENT THE
WORLD METHODIST COUNCIL AT THE VATICAN:
The Right Reverend Sarah
Frances Davis, Vice President of the World Methodist Council and Bishop of the
16th Episcopal District of the African Methodist Episcopal Church will be a
guest of His Holiness, Pope Benedict XVI at the XIII Ordinary General Assembly
of the Synod of Bishops in Rome, Italy from October 7 to 28, 2012.
The Jamaica-based Bishop will
represent the World Methodist Council as one of fifteen invited fraternal
delegates from around the world who will actively participate in the Assembly
of Bishops and will be give opportunity to make a presentation to the synod.
His Holiness, Pope Benedict
XVI is convening the 22-day Assembly to meet under the theme: “The New Evangelization for the Transmission of the
Christian Faith.” The ‘new evangelization’ is the call of the Church
to its original missionary goal that prayerfully will rekindle the original
fire in Christians," explained the Secretary-General of the Synod of
Bishops, Archbishop Nicholas Eterovic.
“I am honored to represent the
World Methodist Council - comprised of 77 Methodist, Wesleyan and related
Uniting and United Churches representing over 80 million members - at the
Vatican,” Bishop Davis said.
In a letter to Bishop Davis,
Brian Farrell, Secretary at the Vatican, said: “Your participation represents a
visible sign of shared concern for the mission to transmit the Gospel message
to the contemporary world.”
*The 16th Episcopal District is
comprised of Haiti, Dominican Republic, Suriname, Guyana, Trinidad &
Tobago, Grenada, Barbados, Jamaica, Virgin Island, as well as the European
countries the UK, France and the Netherlands
5. THE SOCIAL ACTION CORNER:
*Bishop
Reginald T. Jackson
We are
rapidly approaching November 6th, the day for national elections. Voters will
elect our president, members of Congress, governors, and a host of other state,
county and municipal officials. This election more than any other in most of
our lifetimes, offers voters a clear choice between the candidates and their
positions on issues.
Unfortunately
this election is also showing us something else, something it was our hope that
we would not see again in many of our lifetimes. That is the effort to deny and
prohibit people from exercising their right to vote. In nineteen states (19)
there are attempts to put in place laws and requirements which make it more
burdensome and problematic to vote. The ones which would be most negatively
impacted if these laws and requirements are upheld will be African Americans,
Hispanics/Latinos, and the poor. This is not by accident, but is designed and
intentional to dilute and reduce their vote. In the 2008 election there was
record turnout among these groups which in large measure determined the outcome
of many races, particularly the presidential contest.
Some of
the laws and requirements which are being sought would require voters to have
government photo identification that many people don’t have, for example those
who don’t drive, other laws would shorten the time for early voting, which
would impact minorities who more than others vote early. In other states some
photo identification would not be valid while photo identification such as a
gun license would be valid. Those who are pushing these laws and requirements
argue they are pursuing them to end or decrease voter fraud. This claim itself
is fraudulent because in states all across the nation the instance of voter
fraud is less than one half of one percent or non-existent.
In
light of this clear and disingenuous attempt to diminish and suppress the
minority vote it is imperative that we do all we can do to ensure that every
citizen’s right to vote is honored. The Black Church has always been in the
forefront of promoting and protecting voting rights and must continue to do so
now.
The
Social Action Commission urges every pastor to organize their congregation to
ensure that not only members of our churches, but those in our communities are
registered and have the proper identification to vote. While attorneys and
other organizations are waging the fight in court, we must fight the good fight
in the trenches where the people live. There are several things we must do.
• In
our churches and communities have voter registration drives. Deadline for voter
registration is October 16th.
• We
must assist our members, particularly seniors and others who have no photo
identification to get one. While we hope the courts will rule these laws
unconstitutional, we must try to be sure that every registered voter has photo
identification.
• In
states with early voting we must make sure that our people vote in the time
frame scheduled or ensure that they get to the polls on Election Day.
• We
must be on guard against voter intimidation at the polls. There are
organizations who have already announced that they will have people at the
polls to monitor and check the validity of those coming to vote, in other words
their intention is to intimidate and threaten voters. We must teach and
encourage our members and citizens not to be intimidated and who to contact if
anyone tries to stop them from voting.
The
Black Church must rise to meet this challenge, this evil and demonic attempt to
suppress our vote. This is a battle against unrighteousness. As the hymn says,
“harder yet may be the fight, right may often yield to might, wickedness a
while may reign, satin’s cause, may seem to gain, but there is a God, who rules
above with a hand of power and a heart of love, and if we are right, and I
believe we’re right, He’ll fight our battle.” Let’s mobilize our army and vote.
*Bishop
Reginald T. Jackson is the Chair of the AMEC Commission on Social Action
Editor's Note: The Social Action Corner
is a new column that will appear in The Christian Recorder.
6. A HUMOROUS STORY THAT MAKES A GREAT POINT – TIME TO VOTE:
Author
Unknown
Heaven or Hell
While
walking down the street one day a corrupt senator was tragically hit by a car
and died.
His
soul arrives in heaven and is met by St. Peter at the entrance.
"Welcome
to heaven," says St. Peter. "Before you settle in, it seems there is
a problem. We seldom see a high official around these parts, you see, so we're
not sure what to do with you."
"No
problem, just let me in," says the Senator.
"Well,
I'd like to, but I have orders from the higher ups. What we'll do is have you
spend one day in hell and one in heaven. Then you can choose where to spend
eternity."
"Really.
I've made up my mind. I want to be in heaven," says the Senator.
"I'm
sorry, but we have our rules."
And
with that, St. Peter escorts him to the elevator and he goes down, down, down
to hell.
The
doors open and he finds himself in the middle of a green golf course.
In the
distance is a clubhouse and standing in front of it are all his friends and
other politicians who had worked with him.
Everyone
is very happy and in evening dress. They run to greet him, shake his hand, and
reminisce about the good times they had while getting rich at the expense of
the people.
They
played a friendly game of golf and then dine on lobster, caviar and the finest
champagne.
Also
present is the devil, who really is a very friendly guy who is having a good
time dancing and telling jokes.
They
are all having such a good time that before the Senator realizes it, it is time
to go.
Everyone
gives him a hearty farewell and waves while the elevator rises.
The
elevator goes up, up, up and the door reopens in heaven where
St.
Peter is waiting for him, "Now it's time to visit heaven...”
So, 24
hours passed with the Senator joining a group of contented souls moving from
cloud to cloud, playing the harp and singing. They have a good time and, before
he realizes it, the 24 hours have gone by and St. Peter returns.
"Well,
then, you've spent a day in hell and another in heaven. Now choose your
eternity."
The
Senator reflects for a minute, then he answers: "Well, I would never have
said it before, I mean heaven has been delightful, but I think I would be
better off in hell."
So St.
Peter escorts him to the elevator and he goes down, down, down to hell...
Now the
doors of the elevator open and he's in the middle of a barren land covered with
waste and garbage.
He sees
all his friends, dressed in rags, picking up the trash and putting it in black
bags as more trash falls to the ground.
The
devil comes over to him and puts his arm around his shoulders.
"I
don't understand," stammers the Senator. "Yesterday I was here and
there was a golf course and clubhouse, and we ate lobster and caviar, drank
champagne, and danced and had a great time. Now there's just a wasteland full
of garbage and my friends look miserable. What happened?"
The
devil smiles at him and says,
"Yesterday
we were campaigning, today, you voted."
Vote
wisely on November 6 2012!
7. MORRIS BROWN COLLEGE FILES BANKRUPTCY AT NATIONAL DAY OF PRAYER:
Saturday,
August 25, 2012, approximately 1500 supporters of Morris Brown College gathered
in the John H. Lewis Health & Physical Education Complex on Morris Brown’s
campus located at 643 Martin Luther King Jr. Dr. in Atlanta, Georgia, U.S.A.
Friends, family and supporters of the college traveled from across the state of
Georgia, and beyond, to stand with the board of trustees, faculty, staff,
students and alumni, and to hear from the college’s leadership as to how the
school plans on dealing with the impending foreclosure of 13.1 million dollars
of its campus property.
On
August 6, 2012, Morris Brown College received a Notice of Foreclosure from one
of its creditors, U.S. Bank National Association, a corporation that holds 13.1
million dollars in bonds tied to the equity of Morris Brown’s historic campus.
As a result of the college’s recent financial struggles, Morris Brown had been
unable to remain current with its loan, and so the creditor called in the 13.1
million in bonds demanding payment for the full amount. When Morris Brown was
unable to pay, it became in default of its loan. As a result, a sheriff’s sale
of the college’s 13.1 million in property was scheduled for Tuesday, September
4, 2012.
In
response to this critical situation, the Rt. Rev. Dr. Preston W. Williams II,
the newly appointed Presiding Prelate of the Sixth Episcopal District and newly
elected Chairman of the Board of Morris Brown College, called for a National
Day of Prayer to ask for God’s grace and mercy in helping to save the school.
The word was sent out across the city of Atlanta, the state of Georgia, the
United States and the world, to pray for Morris Brown College and lend your
support in this time of great need.
Therefore,
on Saturday, August 25, 2012 at 1 p.m., Morris Brown College conducted its
National Day of Prayer in their campus gymnasium where Bishop Williams outlined
a plan of action to avoid foreclosure of the school’s property and move the
college beyond this dark and difficult moment into a brighter and more
prosperous future.
Bishop
Williams announced that Morris Brown College has filed for Chapter 11
bankruptcy in the Atlanta federal courts. Chapter 11 is a part of the U.S.
Bankruptcy Code which permits reorganization and gives federal protection to
businesses unable to pay their debts. Bishop Williams stated, “The trustees of
Morris Brown College are taking several deliberate actions to ensure that
Morris Brown will not only survive, but also thrive. We are not abandoning the
legitimate legal obligations of the college, but we are utilizing this
important legal protection that is provided by the Constitution of the United
States and by federal law.”
By
filing Chapter 11, Morris Brown seeks to block the foreclosure sale of its 13.1
million in property. Attorney Renardo Hicks, chief legal counsel for Morris
Brown College, explained that the emergency filing automatically delays the
foreclosure until a judge decides otherwise. “Our expectation is that the
foreclosure sale will not happen,” Hicks said. Additionally, through the
bankruptcy filing it is believed that Morris Brown will be permitted time to
submit a reorganization plan for approval by the federal courts. Morris Brown
President Dr. Stanley J. Pritchett Sr. said the filing will give the school
breathing room to find a steady stream of capital to keep it afloat. “We are
making a statement that Morris Brown College is not going anywhere,” Dr.
Pritchett said. “We are not going to allow this latest challenge to get in the
way of what we are trying to do.”
As a
result of the Chapter 11 bankruptcy filing, the September 4, 2012 foreclosure
sale was indeed averted. Bishop Williams has recently commented that although
the bankruptcy process thus far has been challenging, the bankruptcy judges
appear to be sympathetic to Morris Brown’s situation and are willing to allow
the college to present its reorganizational plan. Morris Brown is now actively
engaged in a critical fund raising campaign so that while the bankruptcy
process is being litigated, the college can keep its doors open by maintaining
the ongoing functions of the school which cost hundreds of thousands of dollars
each month.
The
second phase of Bishop Williams’ plan to reorganize and revitalize Morris Brown
College involves the establishment of three development committees composed of
experts in law, finance, education, business, and government affairs from
across the country to help the college address the problems which it currently
faces by developing solutions, making important decisions and implementing
critical changes to the school and its operations.
First,
the Debt Restructuring Committee will consist largely of attorneys, CPA’s and
other professionals working directly with vendors and creditors to renegotiate,
restructure, reduce and erase the existing debt of Morris Brown College.
Second, the Resource Development Committee will focus on looking at every
possible source of funding that can be found for Morris Brown. The members of
this committee will consist of trustees, entrepreneurs, fund raisers, business
professionals, alumni and others who will be directly engaged in long and short
term resource development for Morris Brown College. Third, the Institutional
Advancement Committee will focus on evaluating existing programs and developing
new programs, strategies, structures and approaches to ensure the long and
short term success of Morris Brown College. They will examine the business
model of Morris Brown College and its relationships with local business,
government, other colleges and universities and local, regional and national
churches. The members of this committee will consist of educators, business
professionals, attorneys, clergy, government officials, alumni and other
leaders. These three (3) development committees will work in collaboration with
the Morris Brown College administration and make recommendations to the Board
of Trustees.
In his
address at the National Day of Prayer, Chairman Williams stated, “History will
recall that Americans have understood the importance of educating young people,
and they have always found ways to make it happen. Morris Brown has been a part
of that legacy. Its existence for the past 131 years is a testament to the
spirit and mission of the school.
Founded
in 1881, many of the early Morris Brown students were the sons and daughters of
freed slaves, who were the first in their families to read, write and be
educated. Morris Brown College is the only institution of higher education in
the state of Georgia founded by freed slaves and free black people for the
express purpose of educating black folks. In fact, well into this century,
Morris Brown has enrolled and educated a large segment of marginalized and
disadvantaged students. For 131 years, Morris Brown has inspired students to
great heights of academic achievement. Morris Brown has transformed what some
would call “at-risk” students into top performers in business, medicine, law,
athletics and more. Morris Brown alumni say that this college has stood as a
bright beacon of hope for many generations of students.
So
today, starting here, starting now, for the sake of our children, ourselves,
and those yet unborn, I am asking all people of faith and good will in the city
of Atlanta, the state of Georgia, the United States of America and the world,
to help us save Morris Brown College and re-establish this school as a vital,
vibrant and spiritually powerful academic institution. We know that this is a
tremendous undertaking, which may require several million dollars. But as we
start with our faith in the possibilities, we will work hard to accomplish
these objectives and we will do so in a transparent, accountable and
professional way.
But –
we need your help! We are calling upon all people of faith and good will in
America and the world for help! This is a serious matter that will forever
affect the future of our children. Today we embark on a long and winding road
to recovery. And with God’s help, we will make it! Pray for us! Help us!
Contribute as you can! May God bless you and keep you!”
Morris
Brown College was founded in 1881 by the African Methodist Episcopal Church and
is the only institution of higher education in the state of Georgia founded by
African Americans. The Morris Brown College campus is home to Fountain Hall,
Furber Cottage and Gaines Hall, all built in the 19th century and registered as
either National Historic Landmarks, Atlanta Landmarks or listed in the National
Register of Historic Places.
To make
a financial contribution please log onto Morris Brown College’s website at – www.morrisbrown.edu and click the Morris
Brown College Recovery Fund link. Or you may send a check or money order to the
Morris Brown Recovery Fund, P.O. Box 50495, Atlanta, GA 30302.
8. MOST AFRICAN-AMERICANS VOTE ON TRUST, NOT RELIGION:
*The
Rev. Joseph A. Darby
I
recently read a news story about African-American clergy and Christians
wavering over whether to stay home on Election Day because of President Barack
Obama’s stance on same-sex marriage and candidate Mitt Romney’s Mormon
religion. I’d like to offer my perspective as a pastor in the African Methodist
Episcopal Church and a participant in intra-denominational, ecumenical and
interfaith circles.
I
haven’t detected a lot of African-American enthusiasm for candidate Romney, but
that seems to be a result of his politics rather than his religion. I’ve worked
with and befriended Mormons in interfaith circles and, like most of those who
appreciate diversity in faith, don’t see candidate Romney’s faith as an issue.
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints has a dubious history on
matters of race, but the same can be said of many traditional Protestant
denominations in America. I haven’t detected any great African-American
Christian reluctance to vote for President Obama, either, because
African-American voters are thoughtful, discerning and generally aware of three
basic political realities.
The
first political reality is that Barack Obama is not “Bishop” or “Reverend”
Obama, but President Obama. He’s the chief executive not of a theocracy, but of
a representative democracy who must equitably safeguard the rights of those of
varying faiths and of those who embrace no faith whatsoever. Most
African-American Christians that I’ve spoken with — even those who don’t share
the president’s views on same-sex marriage — understand that he was not
dictating to the church on an issue of faith, but advocating what he judged to
be a civil right.
The
second political reality is that African-Americans are not “single issue”
voters and are accustomed to voting not for the “perfect” candidate, but the
candidate whose overall positions on issues of public policy best reflect their
positions. Most black voters are conservative on perceived issues of morality
but progressive on issues of equity and fairness.
We
generally take a dim view of those who express moral outrage about who loves
whom and the rights of the unborn while promoting political division based on
race and class and taking a mean and punitive stance on helping those born into
and struggling to cope with humble and impoverished circumstances. Most
African-American Christians understand that authentic faith is something not
just to be proclaimed for political advantage, but to be lived out through our
thoughts, words and deeds.
The
third political reality is that most African-Americans embrace the old axiom to
“consider the source,” are leery of “black spokespersons” who seem to
materialize out of nowhere to tell the world what black people are thinking,
and are suspicious of “black leaders” whose words don’t reflect prevailing
community concerns. Many of those with whom I discussed the president’s
same-sex marriage stance were unfamiliar with his most vocal black clergy
critics and questioned why they didn’t express equal outrage on issues like prejudicial
voter photo ID laws, racial profiling by law enforcement and inequity in public
education.
One of
my colleagues expressed amazement that an unfamiliar black clergy group
recently expressed displeasure with the president in a press conference held at
Washington, D.C.’s prestigious National Press Club, and asked a very reasonable
question, “Who arranged for a bunch of black preachers to use the National
Press Club and whose agenda are they working?”
African-American
Christians tend to listen to clergy they know and trust, not clergy with
unknown motives.
No
black clergy of my acquaintance plans, as does a clergy person identified in
the article in question, to “go fishing” on Election Day. Too many people,
sacrificed, suffered and died for the right to vote for anyone to sit on the
sidelines and cheapen a sacred right.
My
community conversations lead me to believe that responsible, thoughtful and
attentive African-American Christians will go to the polls and vote their
conscience on Election Day as all good citizens should, regardless of political
party.
Our
American heritage and civic responsibility demand no less.
*The
Rev. Joseph A. Darby is senior pastor of Morris Brown African Methodist
Episcopal Church and vice president of the Charleston Branch NAACP.
This article reprinted with permission of The Post and Courier (Charleston, South Carolina
9. ABSOLUTE EASY INSTRUCTIONS ON HOW TO
VIDEO STREAM WORSHIP SERVICES:
Bethel AME, Chesapeake City is
connected with USTREAM
Bethel AME Church Chesapeake City, Maryland, where the
Reverend Dana Porter Ashton is the Pastor, streams live using USTREAM. We use it as a way to reach out to those who
may not be able to attend services because of work or illness. It is also a great tool to keep the sick and
shut in members connected, as well as our college students. When setting up the
account, be mindful that USTREAM requires an Internet connection for live
streaming (obtained through the phone provider).
Once you have the Internet connection, you can stream by
using a camcorder and computer, iPad, or cell phone. We have used them all.
First, go to www.ustreamtv.com and
set up an account. If using phones, or
iPads, download the free app from the app store on your phone.
When you are ready to start the stream, go to the app;
click “Go Live”, type in your topic or message, and click broadcast. If you are on any social media, such as
Facebook and Twitter, attach your account when you register and a link will be
sent via Facebook, Twitter, and your email when you broadcast. It’s just that easy!!!!
The Bottomline:
There is no time-limit for the video-stream; subscribers
are given a certain amount of storage space. You can delete the older
video-streams to save space. Our church
has been using USTREAM for about 2 years and has never had any problems or issues
with the storage space.
The service we use is free; they also have one that you
can pay for. The difference between them: With the free service you get ads;
and with the one you pay for you don't have any ads.
Article submitted by
Joyce W. Berger, Audio Visual Ministry
Bethel AME Church, Chesapeake City, Maryland
10. THE REV. DIANA WATKINS HAS A
BUSY FALL SCHEDULE:
On September 19,
2012, the Rev. Dianna Nicole Watkins, a native of Memphis, Tennessee was
re-commissioned as a chaplain in the United States Air Force. She was sworn
into the office by Colonel Mark J. Devine, Wing Commander of the 164th Airlift
Wing of the Tennessee Air National Guard, where she will serve. Upon re-commissioning, she became a first
lieutenant. The Rev. Watkins joined the chaplain candidate program in 2009, and
has completed two internship tours to prepare her for military chaplaincy. In the summer of 2010, she traveled to
Charleston AFB, Lackland AFB, Robins AFB, Patrick AFB, and Joint Reserve Base
Fort Worth. Last summer, she had the
pleasure of serving Malmstrom Air Force Base for a thirty-five day tour to
complete the internship program.
The Rev. Watkins is
a graduate of Spelman College with a degree in political science, and a 2011
Master of Divinity degree recipient of Vanderbilt University. She is an itinerant deacon in the African
Methodist Episcopal Church, and began her ministry at Greater Bethel AME Church
in Nashville, Tennessee under the pastorate of the Rev. Michael D. Broadnax,
Sr.
Her first
commissioning was performed by Chaplain (Colonel-Retired), United States Army
Calvin H. Sydnor III., D.Min.
After being
ordained in October 2011 by Bishop Vashti Murphy McKenzie, the Rev. Watkins
received her endorsement for military chaplaincy from Bishop John White. The Rev. Watkins hopes to continue her Air
Force career until retirement and is excited about this new opportunity to
serve African Methodism and the United States of America. Outside of the military, her interests
include Womanist studies, homiletics, and she enjoys mentoring middle school
girls while keeping up with artistic gymnastics.
The Rev. Watkins is
scheduled to be ordained an Itinerant Elder at this year's session of the
Tennessee Annual Conference. Only two
days after, she will be marrying Mr. Dennis C. Dickerson, Jr. at St. Andrew AME
Church in Memphis, Tennessee, where both attend. Mr. Dickerson is also a
graduate of Vanderbilt University with a Master of Theological Studies, and
presently teaches Latin at St. Agnes Academy-St. Dominic School. The two plan to remain in Memphis for the
year, but are hoping to expand their horizons with more graduate studies in the
future.
11. PROCEDURE FOR 2013 CANDIDATES
FOR POSITIONS IN THE CONNECTIONAL LAY ORGANIZATION:
Each candidate is
responsible to insure that his/her completed Letter of Intent Form with
signatures of the current Episcopal District President, is postmarked by
January 15th, 2013. A current photo is
requested.
The candidate for
Office will forward the original form to the Chairperson of the Nominating
Committee to be postmarked by January 15, 2013.
The Nominating
Committee Chairperson will contact the candidate by email and/or telephone to
acknowledge receipt of the Letter Of Intent Form.
The Nominating
Committee Chairperson will send to each Nominating Committee Member a complete
list of candidates within seven (7) days after the submission deadline (January
15, 2013). This information is to be kept confidential until officially
presented by the Nominating Committee Chairperson.
The Nominating
Committee Chairperson will advise the Committee for any office with no
candidate so that canvassing can begin.
Each Committee
Member should check the list for accuracy, completeness.
The Chairperson
should be notified immediately of any discrepancies.
The report of the
Nominating Committee shall submit to the CLO President and the Executive Board,
Election Committee Chairperson and other designated persons by June 1, 2013.
The photo of final
candidates will be submitted along with the Letter Of Intent for publication in
the Candidates’ Booklet to be circulated at or before the 33rd
Biennial Convention.
Respectfully
submitted by Beverley Nutall, Chair
12. THE REV. LATHAM MILLS
CELEBRATES MINISTRY ANNIVERSARY:
The Rev. Latham Mills tells his story:
“On October 23, 2012, I will celebrate 35
years in ministry. My journey began at 6:00 p.m. Central Time at the Shorter
Chapel AME Church in Franklin, Tennessee. My pastor was the Reverend Samuel
Henderson. The Presiding Elder was the Reverend E. M. Alcorn and my Presiding
Prelate was Bishop Howard Thomas Primm.
I was admitted to the Tennessee Annual
Conference on trial in 1978, ordained as an Itinerant Deacon in 1980, and
ordained an Itinerant Elder in 1982.
My pastoral ministry in the Tennessee
Conference extended from 1979 -1990. I made the decision to pursue my
theological studies and was led me to matriculate at Turner Theological
Seminary at the Interdenominational theological Center in Atlanta, Georgia; and
graduated with a Master of Divinity degree in 1996.
I spent 1991-1997 as an associate minister at
Flipper Temple AME Church in Atlanta. I pastored in the Augusta Georgia
Conference in the Augusta-Athens District from 1997-2011
I recently transferred to the Atlanta- North
Georgia Annual Conference and am a member of the East Atlanta District with
local membership at the Macedonia AME Church where the Reverend Hayward White
Jr. is pastor.
God has richly blessed me over the years.
Many people have crossed my path to enrich my life and for that I am eternally
grateful.
My prayer is that in the midst of my
finiteness that my ministry has been a help to others along the way.
13. RENOWNED TCR
EDITOR RETURNS TO HOME CHURCH:
Mrs. Ann Collier
Parker
On Sunday, September 23rd, 2012,
Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III returned to Ebenezer AME Church in Rahway, New Jersey
to deliver the 186th Anniversary sermon. Our theme for the day was “186 Years of
Holding Fast to God’s Word.”
Dr. Sydnor, who spent some of his growing
years in Rahway, answered the call to ministry at Ebenezer AME Church in 1959
under the pastorate of the Rev. Jesse F. Owens.
Dr. Sydnor attended Wilberforce University and received his Baccalaureate
degree from Cheyney University in Pennsylvania. He received his Master of
Divinity Degree and the Doctor of Ministry Degree from Lexington Theological
Seminary (Kentucky).
Dr. Sydnor served as a United States Army
Chaplain for twenty-eight years and was awarded numerous military honors and
decorations.
During his last military assignment, he
served as the Command Chaplain for U. S. Army Training and Doctrine Command
where he provided leadership and technical supervision to the senior chaplains
at the seventeen military installations located throughout the United States.
Prior to entering the United States Army,
he served as Dean of the Joint Pastors’ Institute at Lane College, providing
theological education for ministers in the African Methodist Episcopal, African
Methodist Episcopal Zion, and Christian Methodist Episcopal Churches in
Kentucky, Tennessee, Alabama, and Arkansas.
Dr. Sydnor has published many articles in
denominational periodicals and conducts marriage, values clarification, and
ministers’ retreats.
He is the editor of The Christian
Recorder, the official newspaper of the African Methodist Episcopal
Church. He was elected to that position at the 47th Quadrennial
Session of the General Conference in July, 2004, and was unanimously reelected
at the 48th and 49th Quadrennial sessions of the General
Conference in 2008 and in 2012.
Since 1852, The
Christian Recorder has been the official newspaper of the AME
Church.
Since Dr. Sydnor entered the call to
ministry, this is the first time that he has returned to Ebenezer, so this was
a very special and an emotional occasion for him and for the members of
Ebenezer. His sermon subject was “Be
Calm in the Storm.” His scripture text
was taken from Mark 4:35-41.
He reminded us of the fear the disciples
felt when they were in the storm in the Sea of Galilee. They questioned why Jesus was sleeping when
the storm was so bad. When He woke up,
rebuking the wind with a “Peace Be Still” expression, they questioned what
manner of man He was. Dr. Sydnor told us
that when the storms of life arise, we should remember to call on Jesus for the
help we need.
This was a memorable day in Ebenezer’s
history – a day that we will remember.
We thank our pastor, the Rev. Erika D.
Crawford, for her wonderful suggestion of asking Dr. Sydnor to come and speak
to us on this special Sunday.
We ask God’s blessings on him as he
continues his great work in the African Methodist Episcopal Church.
Submitted by Ann Collier Parker
Ebenezer AME Church, Rahway, New Jersey
14. WYCLIFFE CONDOLENCE MESSAGE: TRAGEDY STRIKES THE AMEC IN ZAMBIA:
“We are
pressed on every side by troubles, but we are not crushed. We are perplexed,
but not driven to despair. We are hunted down, but never abandoned by God. We
get knocked down, but we are not destroyed. Through suffering, our bodies
continue to share in the death of Jesus so that the life of Jesus may also be
seen in our bodies. Yes, we live under constant danger of death because we
serve Jesus, so that the life of Jesus will be evident in our dying bodies” (2
Corinthians 4:8-11, NLT).
Wycliffe’s
Church Relations department requests prayer for a partner denomination, the
African Methodist Episcopal Church (AMEC). Earlier this month, a horrible
accident occurred in Zambia, Africa, as AMEC pastors and leaders were returning
home from their annual Northwest Zambia church conference. A vehicle filled
with Zambian church leaders had a fatal accident. On the spot, seven pastors
and two church leaders were killed. One youth division leader died three days
after the accident. Two more leaders are still in critical condition at Mansa
General Hospital; eighteen others are recovering from serious injuries at
Mambilima Hospital in Mwense.
The
church district’s leaders began holding funerals on Wednesday, September 18.
The entire denomination feels the pain of this loss along with the
responsibility to care for the families and churches of those who were killed
or injured.
• Pray
that the Lord’s love would comfort grief-stricken families and congregations.
• Pray
for their district, which lost so many pastors at one time, to know how to best
meet needs and fill gaps.
• Pray
that all of the financial needs for the funerals and the health care of the
injured would be covered.
15. LILLY IMPACT STUDY MEASURING CLERGY TRANSITIONS - AME CLERGY
ENCOURAGED AND INVITED TO PARTICIPATE:
The
Rev. Linda Mouzon and Josh Hosler are working together at Virginia Theological
Seminary on a project called the Lilly Impact Study, a series of surveys
designed to help national church bodies and seminaries get a clearer
understanding of the growth and development of their clergy. The surveys are
intended for clergy who graduated from seminary in the years 2002 to 2008.
The Lilly Impact Study: Three surveys on your
transition from seminary into ordained ministry for clergy of any denomination
ordained in the years 2002-2008
Do you
remember completing seminary and the day you were ordained? You probably
experienced a number of emotions and believed that you had reached a milestone
that would prepare you for pastoral leadership in the church. However, like
most members of the clergy, you may have found that academia and avowal to
serve the church did not prepare you for everything you have encountered in
pastoral ministry.
In
recognition of the need for clergy to navigate the challenging path of pastoral
identity formation and development of leadership skills after seminary, the
Lilly Endowment has funded a research project to determine what best
facilitates this process. Our research team is recruiting participants to
complete three online surveys to obtain a clearer understanding of growth and
development of recently ordained clergy (2002-2008), and the types of
post-ordination training, education, and mentoring that contribute to increased
learning and capacity for ministry and leadership.
Responses
to these surveys are confidential and are only released with prior
authorization from you, the participant. Members of the Virginia Theological
Seminary research project team will use collected data to generate reports and
make presentations that are free of any identifying information.
To
agree to participate, please follow this link, read the details of the study,
and provide your contact information:
Once
you have done this, we will email you a custom ID# and links to the three
surveys.
Each
survey takes about an hour to complete, but you do not need to do them all on
the same day. They are quite detailed because we want to learn what contributed
most to who you are today as an ordained minister. So once you have your links,
get a cup of coffee or other favorite beverage, and “go into your room and shut
the door.” Your input is invaluable and we hope that you will volunteer to
participate in this important ecumenical clergy research project.
In
Survey #1, we ask questions about your background, education, work, and
preparation for ministry – including experiences of being mentored.
In
Survey #2, we ask questions about how you approach work, engage conflict, and
handle the emotional complexities of ordained ministry, and balance work and
life in your life, as well as how confident you are in different activities of
ordained congregational ministry.
In
Survey #3, we ask questions about the congregation or other organization where
you currently serve, your practices of leadership, and your spiritual
disciplines and habits. If you have agreed to do so beforehand in the informed
consent, we also ask you to share the contact information of a few folks we’ll
invite to take a smaller survey that will help flesh out your ministry style.
If you
have more questions, you can contact Josh Hosler, Research Assistant, at jhosler@vts.edu or by phone at 206-669-2229. In appreciation
for completing the three surveys, you will receive a copy of the book
Transforming Evangelism, by our leading researcher, the Rev. Dr. David Gortner.
Thank
you for your time and honesty in this important study. We look forward to
hearing from each one of you. And thank you for your dedication to the Gospel
of Jesus Christ and your leadership in so many different communities of faith.
*Submitted
by Josh Hosler, Research Assistant, The Lilly Impact Study, Virginia
Theological Seminary
The
Rev. Dr. David Gortner, Principal Investigator
The
Rev. Linda Mouzon, Project Director
16. MEDITATION BASED ON I SAMUEL 16:1-12:
*The Rev. Dr. Joseph A. Darby
I recently “friended” a college classmate on Facebook and
then called him to catch up on years gone by.
He spent part of our conversation bemoaning the appearance of young men
today and said, “Joe, I’m tired of seeing young brothers with dreadlocks down
their backs wearing baggy jeans and loose sneakers! Don’t they know that they can’t get jobs
looking like that and that people will be suspicious of them because of how
they look?”
I just said “Hmmm” to avoid laughing as I responded because
my classmate - who’s now a very successful accountant - was very much into the
“Black Power” movement in our college days and was known for an Afro hairstyle
the size of a small shrub, multicolored African Dashiki shirts, medallions the
size of hubcaps and seriously high platform shoes!
My friend isn’t unique, because every adult generation comes
down with “convenient amnesia” and thinks that the younger generation is
totally weird in dress and attitude. I
still remember, however, what my mother said when I came home from college
looking like the archetype of a 1970s Black Power activist - “Wear whatever you
want on the outside, but make sure what’s on the inside is good.”
My mother’s advice is still helpful as we size up those that
we encounter from day to day. Our human
tendency is to judge - and sometimes disparage and discount - the worth of
others because of their outward appearance.
We’d do well to remember that God sees beyond outward
appearance and knows our hearts, minds and spirits. God knows the good in the worst of us and the
bad in the best of us and saw fit to offer all of us salvation through the gift
of Christ Our Savior.
Cultivate the wisdom as you go through life to see all of
those that you encounter as wondrously made creations of God, regardless of
outward appearance. Some of them may
still be struggling with the “issues” that we all face in various ways or going
with what’s trendy and popular, but when we treat others as we’d like to be
treated we’ll touch and change lives, offer encouragement to others and see
success stories that remind us of why one modern songwriter said in praise of
the Lord, “You grace and mercy brought me through.”
If you are in the Charleston, South Carolina area, please
join us on the Fifth Sunday in September for Church School at 8:45 am and for
Worship at 10 am as The Women’s Missionary Society leads worship. The “Take Five” Choir will offer praise and
the Reverend Michelle Johnson of Morris Brown’s clergy staff will be the
preacher.
*The Rev. Dr. Joseph A. Darby is the pastor of Morris Brown
AME Church in Charleston, South Carolina
17. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
We regret to inform you of the passing of Brother Carter
Bland, the brother of Presiding Elder Evelyn G. Dunn, Southern District - North
Carolina Annual Conference, Second Episcopal District.
Funeral Services for Carter Bland:
Friday, September 28, 2012 at 1:00 p.m.
Bailey United Methodist Church
Deans Street, Bailey NC 27807
Viewing will be from 11:00 a.m. - 12:45 p.m. before the
service.
Services provided by:
William Toney Funeral Home
516 Poplar St.
P.O. Box 430
Spring Hope, NC 27882
252.278.3164
Fax 252.478-7488
Online Memorial: http://www.williamtoneys.com/new_view.php?id=102612&op=viewcond
Condolences and expressions of sympathy may be sent to:
Presiding Elder Evelyn G. Dunn
9408 Perimeter Court
Zebulon, NC 27597
Phone: 919-269.5924
Email: egd4@yahoo.com
18. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
Regretfully we announce the passing of Mrs. Constance
"Connie" Hughes, Melbourne, Florida, and the mother of Mrs. Beverly
H. Postell, Orlando District Consultant, and the mother-in-law of Presiding
Elder Henry L. Postell II, Orlando District of the AME Church.
Arrangements for Mrs. Connie Hughes:
Family and Friends visitation:
Monday, October 1, 2012 from 5-8 p.m.
Mount Moriah Missionary Baptist Church
2295 Dr. Harvey Riley Street NE
Palm Bay (Melbourne), Florida 32905
Service: Tuesday, October 2, 2012- 11:00 a.m.
Mt. Moriah Missionary Baptist Church
2295 Dr. Harvey Riley Street, NE
Palm Bay (Melbourne), Florida 32905
Cards and condolences can be mailed to the Family at
6423 Jackwood Court
Orlando, Florida 32818
407-295-3004
Arrangements Entrusted to:
POSTELL'S MORTUARY
811 North Powers Drive
Orlando, Florida 32818
407-295-3857
*Postell's Mortuary, Orlando, Florida
19. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
The Reverend Sylvia R. Turner Wilkerson, lifetime member and
associate pastor of First A.M.E. Church, Gary, Indiana, made her transition
from earth to Glory on Saturday, September 22, 2012. Ordained in 1969, the Rev.
Wilkerson served under 6 pastors at First A.M.E. Church where she spearheaded
sick and shut-in, prison, and dance ministries, was actively involved in Bible
study, the Sunday School, and served as the unofficial church historian. For
many years she served as the North District, Indiana Conference secretary under
the leadership of Presiding Elder Leonard Williams, for 17 years.
She is survived by husband, Morris Wilkerson; daughter,
Sylvia Lynette Wilkerson; granddaughter, Jazlen Kiera Wilkerson; and two
sisters, Alma Lindsey and Gwendolyn West.
Visitation will be at First AME Church, 2045 Massachusetts
Street, Gary, Indiana on Friday, September 28th from 12:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m.
The family hour from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m.
Funeral services for Reverend Wilkerson will be held on
Saturday, September 29th, at First AME Church, at 11:00 a.m. The Reverend
Emmanuel J. Vaughn, Sr., Senior Pastor, First A.M.E. Church will officiate.
Cards, gifts, and other condolences should be sent to:
Sylvia Lynette Wilkerson
5151 Jefferson Street
Gary, IN 46404
Or
First A.M.E. Church
219-886-7561
219-886-0197 (fax)
Funeral arrangements entrusted to Smith, Bizzell and Warner
Funeral Home, 4209 Grant Street, Gary, Indiana. 46408, www.smithbizzellwarnerfuneralhome.com
20. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
Homegoing Celebration Arrangements for the Reverend Isaac
Irving, Superannuated Itinerant Elder of the Western North Carolina Conference,
Second Episcopal District.
“Celebrations of Life” Services were held as on Tuesday,
September 25, 2012 at St. Stephen, Liberty where the Rev. A. O. Carmichael
serves as pastor and on Wednesday, September 26, 2012 at Poplar Springs in
Sanford where the Reverend Dr. Saundra Bullock-Hunter serves as pastor
21. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
We regret to announce the passing of Mrs. Elizabeth A.
Hairston Fortune, the wife of the late Presiding Elder Walter F. Fortune, and
the mother of Licentiate Ann Gamble.
Arrangements for Mrs. Elizabeth A. Hairston Fortune:
Wake:
Wednesday, September 26, 2012
Adair Funeral Home
1050 N. Dodge
Tucson, AZ 85716
(520) 326-4343
5:00-6:00 pm - Private Viewing for Family
6:00 pm-8:00 pm - Public Viewing
Service:
Prince Chapel AME Church
602 S. Stone Ave
Tucson, AZ 85701
(520) 624-2871
Thursday, September 27, 2012
9:00 am-10:00 am - Viewing
10:00 a.m. Service
12:00 Leave Prince Chapel to go to Sierra Vista for Burial
Cards and condolences can be mailed to the family at 3915 N
Park Ave #11 Tucson AZ 85719. Calls - 520-293-2978
Expressions of sympathy can be emailed to Licentiate Ann
Gamble:
22. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
It is with great sorrow we announce the passing of the Rev.
Dredford Shuler, pastor of Webster Chapel AME Church-Gonzalez, Texas (Southwest
Texas Annual Conference-San Antonio District.
Homegoing Celebration for the Rev. Dredford Shuler was held
on Thursday, September 27, 2012 at the Family Worship Center in Luling, Texas.
Condolences may be sent to:
Sister Cynthia Shuler
152 River Park Drive
Luling, Texas 78648
Telephone: (512) 576-3616
Email: dcshuler@the-cia.net
23. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
We regret to share news of the passing of Mrs. Evelyn
Bentley, the sister-in-law of the Rev. C.E. Jenkins (retired), 11th Episcopal
District. Mrs. Bentley was a long time member of Bethel AME Church Pompano
Beach, Florida where she worked hard as a secretary and missionary.
Services for Mrs. Evelyn Bentley were held today, 9/21/2012
at 11:00 a.m.
Bethel A.M.E. Church
405 NW 3rd Avenue
Pompano Beach, FL 33060
Expressions of sympathy may be emailed to:
The Rev. C.E. Jenkins (retired) Neal2339@aol.com
24. CLERGY FAMILY
BEREAVEMENT NOTICES AND CONGRATULATORY ANNOUNCEMENTS PROVIDED BY:
Ora L. Easley,
Administrator
AMEC Clergy Family
Information Center
Phone: (615) 837-9736
(H)
Phone: (615) 833-6936
(O)
Cell: (615) 403-7751
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/The-AME-Church-Clergy-Family-Information-Center/167202414220
25. 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.
Click Here: Guidelines
for Submitting Articles to TCR
*You have received this
message because you are subscribed to The Christian Recorder
Online
|
Copyright © 2012 The Christian Recorder, All rights reserved.
You are receiving this email because you are a current subscriber to The Christian Recorder. Our mailing address is:
The Christian Recorder
500 Eighth Avenue, South
Nashville, TN 37203-7508
|
