THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER ONLINE ENGLISH EDITION (12/01/12)

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

World AIDS Day is Saturday, November 1, 2012

1. EDITORIAL – A TRIBUTE TO DR. RICKY SPAIN – NOVEMBER 2, 1949 – NOVEMBER 16, 2012:

Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III

The 20^th Editor of The Christian Recorder

The Reverend Dr. Ricky Spain, the 19^th Editor of The Christian Recorder!

I cannot remember when I first met the Rev. Dr. Ricky Spain, he was another one of those persons undefined by a first meeting; it seems like I have always known him. He treated me like a close friend from the first time I met him.  He was a guest in our home and he sat at my kitchen table. 

Ricky Spain did not meet strangers; he seemed to have been a friend to all who knew him.  I don’t know how he acted around people he didn’t like. 

Dr. Spain was my predecessor and held the office of the 19^th Editor of The Christian Recorder. During a celebration for his ministry in May 2012, I wrote, “It is my pleasure to express my admiration and appreciation for your outstanding pastoral ministry and your outstanding ministry as the 19^th Editor of The Christian Recorder, the Official Newspaper of the African Methodist Episcopal Church. I went on to acknowledge his dedicated and committed professionalism and I couldn’t resist acknowledging and expressing my appreciation for the challenges he and the previous editors of The Christian Recorder faced in publishing our historic newspaper.  I wrote, “I cannot even imagine how you and your predecessors accomplished what you did with the now antiquated technology, typewriters and U.S. postal mail before the advent of today’s computers and technology.” 

His Life

Ricky Spain was born on November 2, 1949 in Virginia Beach Virginia. He was the fourth child born to the late Luther and Florence Spain.  Ricky accepted Christ at an early age and joined the St. Mark AME Church in Virginia Beach Virginia.

Ricky was educated in the Virginia Beach public schools and was a 1967 graduate of First Colonial High School and was an All- State Wrestler. He served honorably in the United States Marine Corps.

Ricky began his education at Norfolk State University and later transferred to North Carolina Wesleyan College where he earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Political Science. He received a Master of Divinity Degree from Wesley Theological Seminary in 1977; a Master’s  Degree in Counseling Psychology from North Carolina A&T State University and a Doctor of Humane Letters from Paul Quinn College in Dallas, Texas. Dr. Spain obtained two Advanced Certificates from Rutgers University of ICAM and from the Interdenominational Theological Center (ITC) in Atlanta Georgia

In the early 1970s he accepted his “call in to the ministry” and became an associate minister at Metropolitan AME Church in Washington DC where he was mentored by the late Bishop Robert Lee Pruitt.

Pastor Ricky Spain served as a spiritual leader for several AME congregations on the Maryland’s Eastern shore; in Washington DC; Asheville, North Carolina; Reidsville, North Carolina; Annapolis, Maryland; and Baltimore.

In 1996, Dr. Spain was elected and served as the 19^th Editor of The Christian Recorder. He dutifully served in this position for eight years and the newspaper expanded under his leadership.  

In 2005, Dr. Spain was reassigned and served as pastor for Waters AME Church in Baltimore Maryland. Dr. Spain brought over 30 years of ministry and wisdom to the Waters family, which contributed to the expansion and Kingdom-building of the Waters AME Church ministry.

Dr. Spain was a proven leader in the AME church and a faithful leader in the community. He was elected to the Reidsville City County Council in 1977. He was also a teacher at the DC Children Center and an addiction counselor with the Baltimore City Department of health.

Dr. Spain was a member of several professional and civic organizations. He was a member of the Baltimore Annual Conference of the Second Episcopal District of the African Methodist Episcopal Church. He was also a member of the Prince Hall Masons and a member of the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated.

In 1979 Ricky married Annie Graves of Reidsville North Carolina they are the proud parents of four wonderful children: Titus, Shae, Amber and Ricky II and the proud grandparents of Titus, Jr; Simone and Kayla.

He was preceded in death by his mother, father and one brother Jerry Spain. Dr. Spain leaves to cherish his memory: wife, Annie; four children: Titus (Valerie) of Reston Virginia; Shae (Angel) of Salisbury, Maryland; Amber of Hanover Maryland; and Ricky II of Severn, Maryland; four siblings: Fay Wilson of Hampton, Virginia; Luther Carter Spain (Ethel) of Virginia Beach, Virginia; Ray Spain (Carolyn) of Warrenton, North Carolina; and Kirby Spain (Shondalyn) of Tampa, Florida; grandchildren: Titus, Jr., Simone, and Kayla; a host of nieces, nephews, and cousins; and church families and friends.

An Appreciation for the 19^th Editor of The Christian Recorder

On behalf of all of the subscribers and readers of The Christian Recorder, I want to thank Dr. Ricky Spain for his proficiency in pastoral leadership, collegial reputation, and dedicated service to the African Methodist Episcopal Church; and to the communities in which he was privileged to serve. 

Thank you Dr. Ricky Spain for your commitment and excellence in ministry; you, in my opinion, were the “best among the best.”

I wish to thank and commend you for your spiritual insight, ministry to the African Methodist Episcopal Church as pastor, General Officer, and servant of God. 

I am honored to be your successor and I am standing on your shoulders and I want to know that I am appreciative of the foundation you provided. Thank you!

I am appreciative of your professionalism, accomplishments, commitment to ministry, mentorship and encouragement to me during my candidacy and tenure as the Editor of The Christian Recorder.

TCR Editor’s Note: Some of the information for this article was taken from the Celebration of Life Obituary of the Rev. Dr. Ricky Spain. Dr. Spain’s Homegoing Celebration was held on Saturday, November 23, 2012 at Bethel AME Church, Baltimore where the Rev. Dr. Frank Madison Reid III is the Pastor. Bishop William P. DeVeaux delivered the eulogy. Remarks were given by Senior Bishop John R. Bryant, General Officers, presiding elders, pastors, family and friends. The Rev. Cordell E. Hunter, Sr. Presiding Elder of the Eastern District, 2^nd Episcopal District was the officiant for the worship service.  Family and friends, clergy and laity  attended Dr. Ricky Spain’s Homegoing Celebration from across the United States. 

2. TCR OP-ED"

John Thomas III

On November 6th, the United States of America made history by reelecting its first minority President Barack H. Obama.  I had the privilege of watching this auspicious event in the electrifying atmosphere of McCormack Place as part of the throng celebrating at the “Obama for America” Rally.  When Fox News called Ohio for the President and Karl Rove broke out into histrionics, the auditorium erupted in spontaneous shouts and flag waving. Barriers of race, class, gender, faith and sexuality all seemed to be broken as we for a few minutes basked in the glow not only of a hard-won victory, but a chance to move the country “Forward.”

True to our social justice roots, the African Methodist Episcopal Church actively participated in the election process by encouraging everyone to register and vote. The AME Church does not tell anyone for whom to vote. At the Connectional level, our Director of Social Action "SIStah Jackie" Walker spearheaded Voter Education and Mobilization initiatives that were successfully transmitted throughout the Church.  In Florida, AME Churches participated fully in the “Souls to the Polls” program that is credited with being a key factor in that state’s electoral results.  Across the country in our local churches clergy and laity engaged candidates through forums and other civic initiatives.   

Simply put, we stood up to be counted.

So, what next?  While the poll numbers and electoral projections have faded, there are other numbers that are still relevant for African-Americans to remember:

20,000—the difference in dollars between the median income for a black and white households

27.6—the percentage of African-Americans living in poverty in the United States

38.8—the percentage of sentenced prisoners under state and federal jurisdiction who are black

7—the approximate difference in years of life expectancy between blacks and Latinos

There are many more statistics that could have been cited.  My point is that while ensuring engagement in the electoral process is an important goal, the work of the AME Church did not end on Election Night.   As a church rooted in the principles of the Free African Society, we must be deliberate in our witness for social justice.  While we may view the current administration in the White House as sympathetic, it is our duty to craft an independent agenda dealing with the issues that concern us as Christians in a predominately African-American church.  

The AME Church in this election showed that we continue to have influence in the electoral politics.  Less clear is our voice regarding issues of social justice.  We cannot let personal access to power move us from our duty to press for systemic change and relief.  By virtue of our historic legacy, we have a seat at the table in organizations and the ear of public officials.  We must use this access, however, to advance our agenda and not rest on the fruits of recognition and perceived power.   If the AME Church only wakes up once every 4 years, we will find that there will be increasingly fewer people by our bedside.

3. TCR OP-ED: LOCAL NAACP BRANCH IS REACHING OUT TO CHURCHES:

*The Rev. Joseph A. Darby

I thank and commend Charleston, South Carolina newspaper, The Post and Courier’s Shirley Greene for her Nov. 20 column on the Charleston Branch NAACP’s efforts to strengthen its bond with the church. Ms. Greene cited numerous examples of church activities designed to make a difference in the community. Those activities are needed and appropriate, but I’d like to be a bit more specific about what the NAACP has in mind.

Years ago, one of our local college presidents asked me if Morris Brown AME Church would like to participate in their Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day activity — doing simple home improvements in a poor community — and I respectfully declined. As I explained to him, the King Holiday celebrates King, the clergy advocate. As a pastor, Dr. King would embrace and promote home improvements in poor communities. As a clergy advocate, Dr. King would ask why there are still poor communities and work to correct inequitable public policies that relegate some citizens to impoverished circumstances.

The Charleston Branch NAACP wants to strengthen its bond with the church so that more churches and clergy can walk in the footsteps of Dr. King, the clergy advocate. Dr. King’s Southern Christian Leadership Conference stood, marched and worked together with Roy Wilkins of the NAACP and the leaders of other civil rights groups to combat unjust laws and unequal treatment, and changed our country for the better by doing so. The “foot soldiers” of the civil rights movement came from churches, and civil rights mass meetings were held in churches.

The NAACP wants to rekindle the relationship that once led clergy to be prophetic rather than pragmatic, to inspire those in their congregations to actively advocate for the well being of all of God’s children and to address public policies that create the need for many forms of church outreach.

We do so because while the NAACP celebrates and supports church outreach and community improvement efforts, we’re not a social service organization — we’re a civil rights organization.

We want to work with churches that sponsor programs for senior citizens to assure that no senior citizen has to go to unreasonable and unnecessary lengths to register and vote. We want to work with churches that sponsor health, wellness and exercise programs so that we can demand together that our governor not turn her back on the new federal law that provides quality health care for all citizens.

We want to work with churches that sponsor feeding programs for the needy to advocate for equity in employment opportunity.

We want to see that those in need can find good jobs so that they can feed themselves and to assure that in our “right to work” state, the needy can rise beyond the ranks of the working poor and aren’t the last hired and first fired.

We want to work with churches that sponsor “unity” activities to ask why some Americans want to secede from the Union because of President Barack Obama’s re-election.

We want to work with churches that sponsor tutorial programs to see that all of the young people they tutor have their choice of quality public schools, that funding for charter schools doesn’t diminish funding for regular public schools and that public dollars don’t go for private school tuition.

We want to work with churches that sponsor programs for young African-American males to assure that those young men can drive without fear of racial profiling, are not brought to court on trumped-up charges, and aren’t suspended from school because they run afoul of teachers with no cultural competence.

In my faith tradition, the Prophet Micah says that God calls us to “do justly, love mercy and walk humbly with our God.” We “walk humbly with our God” through regular and devoted worship and we “love mercy” when we provide outreach and helping ministries.

We must also, however, “do justice,” as did clergy and congregations of all colors in the 20th century civil rights movement.

The Charleston NAACP will continue to pursue a strong bond with the faith community so that we can “do justice” together with an eye towards the words of Jesus — “Whatever you do for the least of my brothers and sisters, you do for me.”

*The Rev. Joseph A. Darby is senior pastor at Morris Brown African Methodist Episcopal Church and first vice-president of the Charleston Branch NAACP.

4. TCR OP-ED: PERSONAL ACCOUNTABILITY

Dr. Gregory Kimble, LPC-S

The United States Armed Forces has recently disclosed that five-General/Admiral Officers did not rely on personal accountability.  The most recent revelation comes with General David Petraeus who retired from being the Commander of the International Security Assistance Force and directed the war in Afghanistan.  General Petraeus did resign from being the Director of the Central Intelligence Agency after it was found out about his involvement with another woman.

General William Ward is being demoted to the rank of Three-Star General after serving as Commander of Africa Command.  He was the only African American Four-Star General Officer to lead a command at that level until an allegation about misuse of official travel status.  General Ward must pay back over $82,000.00 for unauthorized travel for his wife and self.  His demotion will cost him an estimated reduction of retired pay from the military of approximately One Million dollars.  While yet another, One-Star General Officer is being accused of forcible sodomy, sexual assault, and other serious charges that could lead being Court Martial while serving as the Deputy Commanding General of the 82nd Airborne Division while deployed to Afghanistan.

The culture of the Army is currently in crisis after the public knowledge about these events.  Although all leaders are human with a capacity to make daily decisions that impact the lives of many persons as well as their own personal creditability. There are two more military General/Admiral Officers under the scrutiny of perhaps a lapse of personal accountability.  As a career Army officer, these revelations caused me to reflect about what possibly caused the breech of personal accountability.

As a pastor, these revelations cause me to consider the truth that all have sinned and need forgiveness that comes from God.  As a professional counselor, my clinical assessment causes me to consider many theories of causation.  One conceptual theory would suggest whether a personality disorder has gone unnoticed for decades. The stress and demands of being in significant leadership can often cause a lapse in judgment that can erupt due to some unknown influences.  As a person, it becomes evident to realize the truth of the proverb, “to much that is given, much is required.”

What about the culture of Christianity that requires clergy and lay leaders to carry out the Great Commission?  Therefore, church leaders are definitely under the scrutiny of the public comment and criticism especially when church leaders do something wrong. Although when a clergy leader is doing great things for the advancement of Kingdom work and service that does not make the headlines of the news paper nor is the opening story on the local 6 p.m. news.

The causation related to these public revelations about great leaders doing the wrong thing should cause all leaders to reflect on the fact about personal accountability.  It is inherent that leaders at all levels must first consider the truth about how responsibility and power.  The two dynamic elements of responsibility and power become obligated to influence people, resources, time, and mission requirements.  The end result of having responsibility and power is that the leader al at levels becomes accountable.  This role of having responsibility and power comes with an absolute acceptance for personal public success and public failure.

Back to the saying, “to much that is given, much is required.”  The awesome role of being a leader requires a 360 degree approach about reflecting on seeing the dynamics of leadership as being more than cause and effect problem-solving.  It requires critical-thinking about being in the role of being a leader. The leader must understand this/her role as being a leader. He/she must use critical reflection about significant impact on how one’s professional life and private life may ultimately reveal something about the character of the leader. This happened to the great leader King Saul in the 15^th Chapter of First Samuel and subsequent chapters when he attempts to maintain his leadership status when God had chosen another to become King of the Hebrew People. 

A practical definition of personal integrity is when a person does the right thing when no one is watching.  While another practical definition of character is best described as having personal creditability and humility in times of challenge but does not alter her/his  perspective about a responsibility to lead with purpose and passion. 

Leadership is about being responsible with the use of power and responsibility.  The leader must understand the use, misuse, and the abuse of power. Leaders are meant to serve a greater purpose and not desire to become served by those who feel powerless.  This can lead to a misuse of power as well as an abuse of power.  Another important aspect of leadership requires how one understands power and responsibility that comes with his/her position. 

The recent revelations about military General/Admirals with public criticism about personal accountability must extend to critical-reflection with Church leadership. What about church leadership that can come under scrutiny?

In closing, a short-coming of personal accountability will cause a lack of public trust whether outside the church or inside the church. The public will ultimately make its own critical judgments about leaders that have gone bad with the news media way of doing investigative reporting about every aspect of the leader’s life both professional and private.  General Petraeus has served his country faithfully and honorably for close to four decades only to have his personal life diminished because of a lapse of personal accountability.

Dr. Gregory Kimble serves as Pastor of Greater Harvest AMEC in Dallas, Texas. He is also a psychotherapist and organizational-leadership consultant.

5. A TRIBUTE TO THE REV. DR. RICKY SPAIN:

By Marianne Dyson

Note: Dr. Marianne Dyson was a columnist for The Christian Recorder, Expanding Our Tents, for three years, while Dr. Ricky Spain was TCR Editor.

Ricky Spain never claimed to be a brilliant writer, but he was so “all inclusive” and his brilliance was in his “all inclusiveness.” He was a conversational journalist. In fact he will be remembered as an outstanding Conversational Journalist, Second to None. He wrote as if he were talking to somebody and never like he was a hard core journalist full of preachments to a church that always needed correction. His articles were persuasive and appealing to the gentle side of readers who wanted to do right because it was the right thing to do.

Ricky grew up in what is now Virginia Beach, Virginia. There was in him a southern gentleness, but there was also in him the understanding that he was human in a world full of Cosmos Consciousness, and he represented the cause of God who turned away no one. He liked to deal with “straight forward” facts that did not bend in the matter to satisfy some pre-conceived notion. Sometimes, this notion alone brought him down on a different side of those who were supposedly working with him and working on the same side. He had a way of inculcating that in his writing and because he was so conversational and so human you could see a smile through his writing where a tear ought to be. That is perfection.

In his writing Ricky Spain told you what you needed to know; never more. His ideas were universal but he worked on them until they became applicable for everyday use. Certain things were quiet and sacred to him. Yes, he wrote for and about the Church, but after he got to know you awhile, he would speak quietly about, Annie and the children. Ricky Spain always had another thought working and tugging at his being. He never thought that he was bigger than other people. He didn't know how rare conversational writers are. He saw nothing unusual about himself. He seemed to know, as he wrote and as he lived, that everybody sprang from the dust and from the dust all shall return.

For you Ricky, the dust settles but for your words, the words of a conversational journalist, live on and on and we who know you so well, we say. Thanks for the Company.

6. AFRICAN METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH, 17^TH EPISCOPAL DISTRICT, FIRST EAST AFRICA ANNUAL CONFERENCE:

Host Church: Bethel AME Church- Nakuru, Kenya

Host Pastor & Presiding Elder: The Rev. Moses Onyango Achola

Venue

Jumuia Conference Center

Nakuru, Kenya

October 21st – 23rd 2012

The Rt. Rev. Wilfred Jacobus Messiah – Presiding Prelate

Mother Carol Isabella Messiah – Episcopal Supervisor

In the revised boundaries of the Annual Conferences in the 17^th Episcopal District, the East Africa Annual Conference is the newest addition.

The Historic First Annual Conference was held between 21st October – 23rd October, 2012.

It was an honor to have with us the Presiding Prelate, the Rt. Rev Wilfred Jacobus Messiah and the Episcopal Supervisor, Mother Carol Isabella Messiah. This was their very first trip to the nation of Kenya. 

When they arrived they were very elated to be part of the history of this young but thriving work of the African Methodist Episcopal Church. Though it is about 3-hours between Nairobi, where the airport is and Nakuru, the venue of the Annual Conference, the Bishop and Mother were happy to be here to meet the brothers and sisters.  The church in Kenya began in 1997 and to-date there are 14 congregations.

The clergy and laity from different parts of Kenya, namely Nakuru, Nairobi, Migori, Mombasa and Kericho gathered in Nakuru with great anticipation for a mighty move of God! All the clergy and laity received Bishop and Mother Messiah with great joy that they were seeing for the first time.

First Business Session – 4:30 p.m.

The First Business Session of the East Africa Annual Conference began at 4:30 p.m. with praise and worship and Devotions. The Presiding Elder Rev. Moses O. Achola welcomed the Pastors, Delegates and attendees and then handed it over to the Prelate of the 17th Episcopal District.

Bishop Wilfred J. Messiah explained the procedure used to Organize the Annual Conference in practical terms.  As he organized, he explained step by step why we do what we do. He explained who are the members of an Annual Conference from the Book Of Discipline 2008 – 2012. He explained the roll call of the Annual Conference and how it would be done. He requested that all who would answer the roll call should have a passage of scripture that has kept them all year. He also stated that he did not want the shortest scripture in the bible “Jesus Wept.”

Organization of the Annual Conference

The Rev. George Okinda was elected as the first Secretary of the East Africa Annual Conference. The Secretary was given the instructions of how to prepare the Minutes of the Annual Conference.

Roll Call

Itinerant Elders:

Bishop Wilfred Jacobus Messiah

The Rev. Moses O. Achola, Presiding Elder

The Rev. Michael Alanya                            

The Rev. Nancy Kimani                              

The Rev. George Jaoko                              

Itinerant Deacons:

The Rev. Priscah Onyango                          

The Rev. Nicholas Obare                            

The Rev. Godfrey Mwamunga                   

The Rev. Mark Omondi                               

The Rev. Dennis Ochieng                            

The Rev. Mark Okuku                                 

The Rev. Charles Odundo                           

The Rev. George Okinda                             

The Rev. Eunice Alanya                             

The Rev. Serfine Atieno Atonga             

The Rev. Dorcas Watetu                            

The Rev. Jared Otieno                                  

The Rev. Emilly Biwott                                

The Rev. Amos Otwera                                

The Rev. Rose Akinyi (Deceased)               

The Rev. Isaac Omare                                  

The Rev. Moses Wadende                        

The Rev. Lucy Owino                         

The Rev. Stephen Okoth                    

The Rev. Esther Ashimala                    

The Rev. Hedson Owaga                    

The Rev. John Onyango                         

The Rev. Eunice A. Oloo                     

The Rev. Beatrice W. Njau                   

Licentiates

Lic. Michael Otieno

Lic. Martha Okombo

Lic. Perris Odongo Agutu

Lic. Grace Anyango Onyango

Lic. Dickson Orimbo Adongo

Lic. Robinson Oyando Achola

Lic. Eric Otieno Alanya

Lic. Pauline Anyango Otieno

Lay Delegates to the First East Africa Annual Conference

Bethel - Nakuru, Mr. Joel Onyango

Berea, Sister Evelyn Achieng

Ndusu, Sister Rose Yegon

Soweto - Kayole, Brother Lamec Oketch

Ongata - Rongai  

Bondo, Sister Leonida Wasonga

Mombasa, Brother John Gundo

Magoto, Brother Peter Randiala

Got Kweru, Brother Michael Otieno

Kadem – Koweru, Brother Harrison Disi Osumo

Migori Town, Sister Nelly Awuor Ouma

Sachangwan                  

Kericho

Kisumu

DAY 2, Monday 22nd October, 2012

The day’s sessions began with Rev Richard Ngulube (Pastor Bethel AME Church – Lusaka, Zambia) teaching Bible Study from 8:00 am. He taught on Tithing and Offerings.

After the Bible Study, the Supervisor, Mother Carol Isabella Messiah was ushered in the following session. She spoke on the Constitution and By-Laws governing the WMS and YPD. She also gave instruction on the WMS and YPD uniforms. Her presentation was filled with wise counsel for healthy family order. She presented samples and elaborated on the meaning of the colors of the uniforms worn by the WMS, YPD, and RAYAC.

In the East Africa Annual Conference, being the very First Session, Bishop and Mother Messiah generously gave of their own funds for the feeding and accommodation of all the attendees. Being a unique Historic Session, coupled with the desire of the brethren in Kenya to meet their Presiding Prelate, attendance was not limited to who could attend.

After the session with the Supervisor, the meeting broke for lunch and all the people were transported from the Conference Center to Bethel AME Church where lunch and dinner was prepared daily.

Board Of Examiners of the East Africa Annual Conference

The Rev. Moses Onyango Achola

The Rev. Godfrey Mwamunga

The Rev Nicholas Obare

The Rev George Jaoko Oloo

Report Of the Board Of Examiners

Admissions Class

Lic. Eric Otieno Alanya

Lic. Grace Anyango Onyango

Lic. Mike Otieno Onyango

Lic. Dickson Orimbo Adongo

Admission to First Year Studies

Lic. Robinson Oyando Achola 

Lic. Martha Adhiambo Okombo 

First Year Studies to Second Year

Lic. Pauline Anyango Otieno

From Second Year to Third Year Studies (Ordained as Itinerant Deacons)

Lic. Esther Ashimalla

Lic. Hedson Amolo Owaga

Lic. John Ombok Onyango

Lic. Eunice Achieng

Lic. Beatrice Wathanu Njau

Third Year To Fourth Year Studies

The Rev. Amos Otwera

The Rev. Charles Otieno Odundo

The Rev. Emilly Cherop Biwott

The Rev. Lucy Akinyi Haya

The Rev Okinda Elkana George

The Rev. Moses Owino Wadende

The Rev. Serfine Atieno Atonga

The Rev Dorcas Watetu

The Rev Mark Otieno Okuku

The Rev Nicholas Obare

Fourth Year Studies (To be Ordained as an Itinerant Elder): The Rev Godfrey Mwamunga

That he be ordained an Itinerant Elder at the seat of the Christian Education Congress in Kabwe, Zambia April 21st – 28, 2013 and to be released from Classes.

The Ordination Service was held on the afternoon of Monday 22nd October, 2012.

                                        

The Ordination Sermon was “God’s Call" from Jeremiah 1:3 – 10. God calls people and some people call themselves. The call of God always brings a struggle to the hearers. The call always brings empowerment.  God calls us even before we are born. When God calls he will protect and provide for the one called.

Bishop Messiah lifted a special offering for the education of the clergy. The offering was Ksh 8200.

the Rev Richard Ngulube began with the early morning teaching specifically lecturing on Church organization. Bishop Messiah continued with the same subject bringing enlightenment to the Church in the East Africa Annual Conference the basics on Church Organization. Bishop Messiah gave his testimony of the challenges he underwent in South Africa during the apartheid era and which resulted in him being denied opportunity for him to finish his college education. Still God made way for him through one AME Church. He travelled to the USA to complete his college education. Still the call of god beckoned upon him and the Supervisor to come back to South Africa leaving their children behind.  Both Bishop and Mother did show by practical example of their lives and sacrifice how God is faithful when we are committed to His service. Also they shared on the significance of financial openness amongst couples.

Bishop preached from Mark 9:2 - 8 the message titled “From Excitement To Service.”  He explained how the Book of Mark being a synoptic gospel is one that is the oldest written and probably the most accurate since it was the gospel written closest to the events. He said that that the true rhythm of life is that sometimes "We are up and sometimes we are down." The disciples of Jesus saw Him transfigured and it was a wonderful exciting experience on the mountain. But the experience was short-lived and the disciples had still to go down from this excitement and go and serve. We have to go and visit those in prison, feed the hungry, clothe the naked. The service is down in the valley and that is where we are being called to serve.

After the sermon, Bishop then consecrated and gave the Holy Communion helped by the Members of the Board Of Examiners. It was a solemn moment of consecration for all the attendees of the East Africa Annual conference.

To better align the churches in the East Africa Annual Conference to the traditions of the African Methodist Episcopal Church, Bishop and the Supervisor Messiah presented the Annual Conference with copies of The A.M.E. Church Hymnal, The Church Class Leader System, and The Role Of The Stewards and Becoming A Minister in The African Methodist Episcopal Church.

Supervisor Messiah also presented post-cards depicting the Founder of our Church, Bishop Richard and Mother Sarah Allen, and Mother Bethel AME Church in Philadelphia. These were prophetic gifts because we received these believing that these pictures will be emblazoned on the windows and walls of Bethel AME Church, which is the Mother Church in Kenya.

Post Annual Conference

On 24th October Bishop Messiah and the Supervisor, Mother Messiah planned to visit the worship places of some of the churches around Nakuru. The first stop was Berea AME Church which meets in Kaloleni Primary School in Nakuru. The Rev. Godfrey Mwamunga is the pastor Bishop Messiah, Mother Messiah, Presiding Elder Moses Onyango Achola, and the Rev Obare were warmly welcomed at the school with the Head-Teacher, Mrs Ogombe.

The Supervisor was so touched with the plight of the many students at this school who go without lunch. Bishop and the Supervisor will be exploring the possibility of providing for a lunch programme at this school. From there Bishop and mother were taken to Ndusu AME Church which is in a rural part out of Nakuru in Rongai. This is an area without a tarmac road and deep in the country. Thanks to the hired 4x4 vehicle, the road was impassable but still Bishop and Mother had to get to see where the brethren are. They were again warmly welcomed at the Primary school where Ndusu AME Church meets. At this school again, the Bishop and the Supervisor were touched to sponsor the training of two young people who are teachers at the school but have not received formal teachers training.

Finally Bishop and Mother left Kenya 25^th October after giving the First Historic East Africa Annual Conference, great leadership and guidance. We were so blessed and will be eternally grateful for their very first visit to Kenya and the East Africa Annual Conference.

Submitted by the Rev. Moses Onyango Achola, Presiding Elder

7. A REPORT FROM THE MISSION FIELD:

By Bishop Clement W. Fugh,

Presiding Bishop, 14th Episcopal District

“Hallelujah and AMEN!”

                                     

Episcopal Supervisor Alexia and I boarded the plane from Roberts Field, Monrovia, Liberia to return to the United States on Thanksgiving afternoon, November 22, 2012.  We were accompanied by Dr. and Mrs. Daryl Ingram, and my brother, Alvin Fugh of Odenton, Maryland.

                                     

The eleven days from departure to return went like a whirlwind.

                                      

We departed Nashville on Wednesday, November 14th and arrived in Monrovia on Thursday evening, November 15th.  In Monrovia, we were greeted by the Rev. Dr. Katurah Cooper, pastor of Empowerment Temple and a throng of missionaries, ministers, presiding elders and an enthusiastic delegation from across the 14th Episcopal District.

                                     

The 14th Episcopal District Planning Meeting commenced on Friday, November 16th at Eliza Turner AME Church where the Rev. Alvin Attah is the pastor. The theme of the Planning Meeting was “A Season of Jubilee.” 

The meeting adjourned on Saturday, November 17th.  Representatives from each of the seven annual conferences of the 14th Episcopal District were in attendance with the exception of Togo-Benin.  The Rev. Dr. Margaret Fadeham, Presiding Elder of the Nigeria Annual Conference brought the keynote address to an assembly in excess of 300 persons.

                                     

Critical and pressing issues affecting the several annual conferences were addressed.  Additionally, time was spent envisioning the expansion of the work to remote areas and reclaiming ground lost as a result of national conflicts.

                                     

The meeting was “mountain top” in every respect!  In testimony of our commitment to the future of the district, the closing message was preached by Brother Edmund Cholopleh, a licentiate from the Liberia Annual Conference.

                                     

A debt of gratitude and thanks is owed to the presiding bishops and Episcopal Districts who were so generous in their support of our initiatives.  Because of their generosity, we were able to pay the travel, housing, sustentation, and give a small stipend to attendees from outside of Liberia. We provided meals for all who attended the Planning Meeting. 

                                     

The Monrovia College Board approved the selection of Mrs. Pearl Banks–Williams, an alumna of Monrovia College to serve as Interim President though June 2013 until a successor is named to replace Dr. E. Topo Johnson, Acting President.  Mrs. Banks-Williams, a PhD Candidate is sponsored in part by the Monrovia College Alumni Association in the Americas.  We are excited about the prospects of her service to Monrovia College.

                                     

AME University held its 13th Convocation and Commencement activities November 18 – 21, 2012.  Your humble servant, preached the Baccalaureate Sermon on Sunday.  Mrs. Patricia Kelley Ingram addressed the Honors Students on Monday.  Dr. Daryl B. Ingram, Executive Director of the AME Church Department of Christian Education was the Commencement speaker on Wednesday to a graduating class of 600 students, the largest class in the brief history of the school.  This is a tribute to the vision and labors of Bishop C. Garnett Henning Sr. under whose Episcopal leadership AME University was founded in 1995, to Bishop David Daniels whose expansion of Hatcher Hall accommodated the educational capacity of the institution, to President Jean Bell Manning, and to faculty, staff and parents.  Salute!

                                     

For traveling mercies, and for all that our eyes behold, our hearts felt, our chorus is a resounding, “Hallelujah and Amen!”

8. THE WHITE HOUSE - A MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT:

Hello --

Today, I met a woman named Lyn Lyon. She's a senior citizen from Virginia, and we invited her to the White House because she wrote in to explain why it is so important for all of us to make sure that taxes don't go up on the middle class.

"Let's show the rest of the world we are adults," she said. "Living in a democracy, we can solve our problems by working together."

All of us here in Washington have a little more than a month to find the kind of solution that Lyn describes. If Congress does nothing, every family in America will see their taxes automatically go up at the beginning of next year. A typical middle-class family of four would see its taxes rise by $2,200. That means less money to buy groceries or fill a prescription. It means a tougher choice between paying the rent and paying tuition.

So right now, I'm asking you to join Lyn and thousands of other Americans who are speaking out. Add your voice to this debate, and I'll ask Congress to listen to the people who sent us here to serve.

Tell us why you think it's important to keep taxes from going up on the middle class.

A year ago, during our last fight to protect middle-class families, tens of thousands of working Americans took action. They wrote in to us, and we put their stories on the front page of the White House website. They called, tweeted, and brought in their friends on Facebook -- and sure enough, it worked. Congress listened.

The same thing happened earlier this year, when college students across the country stood up and demanded that Congress keep rates low on student loans. Lawmakers got that message loud and clear.

When enough people get involved, we have a pretty good track record. And that’s important, because this is our biggest challenge yet -- and it's one we can only meet together. I'm going to do my part -- not just by sitting down with CEOs, labor leaders, and leaders in Congress -- but by taking this to the American people.

I'll go anywhere and do anything it takes until we get this done. But I can't do it alone.

So I'm asking you to join me -- and folks like Lyn. Add your voice to ours, and share your story. Because this debate is too important for Washington to get it wrong.

Will you tell us what $2,000 means to you?

http://www.whitehouse.gov/my2k

Thanks,

President Obama

9. A TRIBUTE TO THE LATE ATTORNEY CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS MERCER, JR.:

The Ministerial Staff, Officers and Members of Bethel AME Church in Little Rock, where the Rev. D. Lavel Crawford, Sr. serves as pastor, celebrate the Homegoing of  Attorney Christopher Columbus Mercer, Jr., a trailblazer and champion of civil rights.

Christopher Columbus Mercer Jr. was born Castor Mercer Jr. on March 27, 1924 in Pine Bluff, Arkansas to Castor C. and Tarvell Linda Mercer. He is preceded in death by one brother, Harry Mercer, and a sister-in-law, Pearl Herman. He entered his eternal home on November 20, 2012, in Little Rock, Arkansas.

Mr. Mercer received his AB in social services from Arkansas Agricultural, Mechanical & Normal College (now the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff) in 1946. He entered the University of Arkansas School of Law in the fall of 1949, along with George W. B. Haley, whose father taught at AM&N. They were the third and fourth African-American students admitted to the School of Law and formed part of the group known as the Six Pioneers for their integration of that institution. He received his law degree in 1955, although he had passed the bar exam in March 1954 with the highest score in his group. His license was issued on May 17, 1954-the date of the United States Supreme Court decision in Brown v. Board of Education. 

Mercer was a member of the Arkansas Council on Human Relations. He was Arkansas field secretary for the NAACP in 1957 and 1958 and an “aide-de-camp” to Daisy Bates during the Central High Desegregation Crisis in Little Rock. Christopher Columbus Mercer, Jr. was an advisor to Daisy Bates during the 1957 desegregation of Little Rock Central High School. As field secretary for the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP), his legal background helped Bates understand and respond to the flood of litigation against the NAACP.     He drove five the Little Rock Nine to and from school during their first semester.

In January 1967, Mercer was appointed deputy prosecuting attorney in Little Rock, making him the first black person to hold this position in any Southern state. He served in this position for more than three years. He went into private practice in Little Rock in 1958 and in 2004, celebrated his fiftieth year practicing law. He was awarded an honorary Doctor of Laws degree from the University of Arkansas, Fayetteville in May 2011 and received the Silas Hunt Legacy Award in April 2012. , also from the University, which recognizes African Americans for their achievements and contributions.  Incidentally, Silas Hunt was the first African American law student to enter the U of A.  In July of 2012, Mercer received his name on a bronze plaque placed on the sidewalk outside the Statehouse Convention Center in honor of his service and sacrifice to the civil rights era.  During his 58 years in practice, he represented virtually every church denomination, served as a special judge in several courts in Pulaski County, was General Counsel for Shorter College in North Little Rock, AR and served as General Counsel for the Connectional A.M.E. Church. 

He was a member of Bethel A.M.E. Church in Little Rock, Omega Psi Phi Fraternity; the 20th Century Knights Social Club, and numerous other civic organizations.  Atty. Mercer married Inez LeMay in 1955, with whom he raised seven children. He later married Pamela James, with whom he had two children.

He is survived by his wife, Pamela, nine children, five grandchildren, seven great-grandchildren, one brother, and numerous other family and friends.

10. THE AME CHURCH GENERAL CONFERENCE HEADS TO PHILADELPHIA:

By Dr. Phyllis Qualls-Brooks

History will be made when the 50^th Quadrennial Session of the General Conference of the African Methodist Episcopal Church meets in Philadelphia in 2016.  This will be the 200^th Anniversary of the AME Church as an organized religious denomination, established in 1816.  The Church was first organized in 1787 as the Free African Society, which evolved into the African Methodist Episcopal Church.

Mother Bethel in Philadelphia, which became the first church in the AME denomination when it was established in 1816 by Richard Allen, will be a significant site during the 2016 conference.  Bishop Gregory G.M. Ingram serves as host bishop of this milestone conference.  “We have already begun to lay the foundation for this 50^th Quadrennial Session of the AME Church,” he said.

 “This General Conference is especially historic, significant and relevant for the ever-growing service to God. We look forward to hosting,” he added.  We will implement many of the activities and functions used during the 49th Quadrennial and add new ones.”

Bishop Ingram was assigned to the First Episcopal District during the 49th General Conference held in Nashville, Tenn., at Gaylord Opryland Resort and Convention Center, which concluded on July 4, 2012. The First Episcopal District includes Bermuda, New Jersey, Delaware, New York, western New York, New England and eastern Pennsylvania.  He comes to the district from the Tenth Episcopal District, which covers the entire state of Texas.

 

The 49^th Quadrennial Session of the General Conference has been praised by many attendees as one of the best ever, with services, programs, activities, Nashville stars and once-in-a-lifetime opportunities.  There were more than 30,000 attendees during the eight-day conference, including church officials, delegates, observers, exhibitors, program participants, families and visitors attending the various events including worship services,  business sessions, workshops, Bible Study, youth events, the AME Mall and other activities.

Bishop Vashti Murphy McKenzie, then host bishop of the 13^th Episcopal District, said it was a labor of love.  “Team 13 labored in the vineyard, prayed steadfastly, worked tirelessly and delivered on each and every account.” During the General Conference, Bishop McKenzie was assigned to the Tenth Episcopal District.

Senior Bishop John Bryant said the 49^th Quadrennial was where members of the AME Church came together as one.  “We preached, prayed, and did the business of the Church.  Now, it is our duty to go out to our various districts and do the work of the Lord. This General Conference was great and I am anxiously looking forward to 2016.”

Traditional business of the conference included legislation that was considered, election of Bishops, and assignment of bishops. Other highlights included the official White House visit of First Lady Michelle Obama and the election of two bishops, The Right Reverend Clement W. Fugh and The Right Reverend Reginald T. Jackson.  Other star-studded events included the highly acclaimed Fisk Jubilee Singers of Nashville’s Fisk University, the internationally famous Dr. Bobby Jones of BET’s Dr. Bobby Jones Gospel Hour, and Dr. Catana Starks, former Tennessee State University golf coach, who highlighted the Platinum Golf Tournament.  The movie “From the Rough,” to be released soon is based on her career as a golf coach at TSU and stars Taraji P. Henson as Starks.

A local African drum and dance team helped to open the exhibit hall, the AME Mall, as well as a drum group from a local high school.  Involving the youth was a major consideration of Team-13, and Camp AME provided recreational and educational activities for children of families attending the conference. Additionally, the Debutante-Masters Dedication was a beautiful event.

Bishop McKenzie also praised Dr. Richard Lewis, Treasurer/Chief Financial Officer of the AME Church for the hard work of his staff, who had the responsibility of the logistics and arrangements for the conference.  Elected in 1996, Dr. Lewis and his staff have produced four General Conferences—2000, 2004, 2008 and 2012.  This General Conference was particularly significant because it was in Dr. Lewis’s hometown.

“Dr. Lewis did a great job with his team, hosting more than 30,000 visitors to his home city of Nashville.  This was the first time in modern times the General Conference was held under one roof and the attendees enjoyed all the amenities of the Gaylord Opryland Resort as well as greater Nashville,” said Bishop McKenzie.

“I was honored to see this dream come true of hosting the African Methodist Episcopal Church General Conference in Nashville. I extend heartfelt thanks to Bishops Ingram, Commission Chair; Bishop Bryant, Senior Bishop; Bishop Green, President of the Council of Bishops; and Bishop McKenzie, Host Bishop, for their unwavering support and cooperation.  I am also grateful to all the members of the Bishop’s Council for working with me and my staff in such an outstanding manner,” said Lewis. 

Plans are now being made for the historic 50^th Quadrennial of the General Conference. It is going to be an awe-inspiring occasion.  “Traditions will be honored and innovations will be utilized. Plan now to attend,” said Lewis.

11. THE 11^TH EPISCOPAL DISTRICT WELCOMES BISHOP RICHARDSON, JR. AND MRS. CONNIE S. RICHARDSON:

The Reverend Edrena Houston Brown, MACE

The excitement of the congregants throughout the State of Florida applauded the return of our native spiritual leaders to the Sunshine State of Florida and comprising the Bahamas Island is none other than The Right Reverend A.J. Richardson, Jr., and his distinguished wife, Mrs. Connie Speights Richardson.  Their spiritual and dynamic leadership was demonstrated during the series of Annual Conferences and the Post-Planning Session of the Eleventh Episcopal District recently held in Orlando, Florida.

Bishop Richardson is a serious Man of God, who exemplifies a calm and serene attitude, a compassion heart and a love for the People of God.  He is a devoted spouse, loving father and the brother of a twin brother, a Head Drum Major for Jesus where he served as Drum Major in the Marching “100” band of Florida A. and M. University, Tallahassee, Florida.

His roots of spirituality began during his formative years, from the Parsonage to the Pulpit of the African Methodist Episcopal Church.  An outstanding Scholar, Visionary, Leader, Administrator, Preacher, Teacher and community activist Bishop Richardson is Noted as an Author of numerous books and periodicals throughout the world.

Our servant leader of God, in which God directed his footsteps, was elected and consecrated as the 115^th Bishop in the African Methodist Episcopal Church, in Louisville, Kentucky at the General Conference of the A.M.E. Church.

The renown and dynamic Bishop Adam J. Richardson, Jr., Presiding Prelate and Chief Celebrant of the Eleventh Episcopal District and Mrs. Connie Speights Richardson was honored at the South Conference, Bethel AME Church, Pompano Beach, Florida, The Rev. Eddie Moise, Pastor and the Rev. John Bodison, Presiding Elder of the South Conference of the African Methodist Episcopal Church.

The First Ecumenical Community Worship Service implemented by Bishop Richardson set a new standard for the community leaders and the interfaith community to participate in the worship experience across South Florida. Special accolades were presented to the Bishop and Mrs. Richardson by Superintendent Robert W. Runcie, Broward County Public Schools, the 6th largest school district in the nation, Men of Destiny Community Outreach, Inc., The National Association of the Broward County Alumni Chapter of Florida A&M University, The Honorable Thaddeus “Thad” Hamilton, Chair of the Broward County Soil & Water Conservation District, Mr. Wayne Arnold, Owner for Royal Castle Burgers, Miami, Florida and a special tribute to Mrs. Richardson by the Miami-Dade County Chapter of the Tuskegee Airman “Red Tails” (Ret). Leo Gray of an original photo and document of the airmen and her Alma Mater of Tuskegee University.

Bishop Richardson is the husband of Mrs. Connie Speights Richardson, Episcopal Supervisor of the Second Episcopal District and they are the proud parents of two children, Attorney Monique Richardson and Mr. Trey Richardson a recent recipient of two masters’ degrees in music theory and classical Saxophone.

Prior to becoming the 115^th elected and consecrated Bishop in the AME Church, Bishop Richardson left his legacy at Bethel A.M.E. Church, where he served as Senior Pastor, he led the parishioners in a new building expansion facility in relocating the old facility of Bethel and relocating near Florida A. and M. University, which served students, faculty and the community in their pursuit of spirituality. Bishop Richardson extended his services to the community in counseling and teaching referrals, economic development, community and political activist, and serving colleges and universities throughout the country.

An Active alumnus of FAMU, he received his B. A. degree in 1967, a Master of Divinity Degree from Turner Theological Seminary at the Interdenominational Theological Center, Atlanta, Georgia and the Doctor of Sacred Theology degree at the ITC through the Atlanta Theological Association.  On behalf of the Consistency of the African Methodist Episcopal Church we congratulate Bishop Adam J. Richardson, Jr., and Family on this memorable occasion.

12. TURNER THEOLOGICAL SEMINARY (TTS) FOUNDERS’ CONVOCATION:

Turner Theological Seminary is preparing to celebrate its 119^th Founders Convocation and 5^th Annual Conference on Ministry. Under the leadership of The Rt. Reverend Dr. Preston Warren Williams II, Chairman of the TTS Board of Trustees and Presiding Prelate of the Sixth Episcopal District, there is an awesome lineup of nationally known preachers and lecturers assembled for this occasion.

This annual observance honoring the memory of Bishop Henry McNeal Turner, the 12^th Elected and Consecrated Bishop of the AME Church, whom the Seminary was named in honor of in 1900 while he served as the resident Bishop in Georgia, seeks to bring together alumni, clergy and lay people in ministry to celebrate our past and to explore new models of ministry for the future.

Now under the leadership of Dr. John F. Green, President-Dean and a Turner alumnus (succeeded Dr. Daniel W. Jacobs upon his retirement in 2008), a unique vision continues in the pursuit of excellence as an institution for the preparation of “a new generation of leaders for ministry in the 21st Century.”

Since becoming the President-Dean, Dr. Green instituted the Dr. Isaac Rufus Clark, Sr. Conference in memory and in honor of his late Professor of Homiletics. Dr. Clark has been described as an extraordinary homiletician, a devout Christian, an unselfish philanthropist, a master teacher, and a devoted husband and father. Dr. Clark was an alumnus of Wilberforce University and Payne Theological Seminary. Although the Doctor of Theology in Systematic Technology was bestowed upon him in 1958 from Boston University, his most prominent work was in the area of Homiletics, having both directly and indirectly influenced hundreds of theological students.

Since establishing the event as a Pastor’s and Lay Leadership Conference, as well as the Founders’ Convocation, a number of well-known alumni and nationally known preachers and lecturers have presented, including: Bishops John R. Bryant, Adam J. Richardson, Richard F. Norris, Vashti M. McKenzie, Samuel L. Green, and Bishop William P. DeVeaux, the immediate past Bishop of the Sixth Episcopal District.

Scheduled to preach for the January 2013 Convocation are Bishops Gregory G. M. Ingram and Reginald T. Jackson, who have shared in previous Founders’ Convocations. Preachers and presenters in the AME Church have included the Rev. Dr. Cecilia W. Bryant, the Rev. Dr. Jessica Ingram, the Rev. Dr. Kenneth E. Marcus, the Rev. Terence R. Gray, the Rev. Dr. Ann Lightner-Fuller, the Rev. Dr. Debora F. Grant, the Rev. Dr. Floyd Flake, the Rev. Dr. James Miller, the Rev. Dr. William D. Watley, and the Rev. Dr. Teresa Fry-Brown, both of whom will participate as lecturers in January.

Other distinguished preachers and presenters include: Bishop Charles E. Blake, the Rev. Dr. Jeremiah A. Wright, the Rev. Dr. Carolyn Ann Knight, the Rev. Dr. Henry Gregory, the Rev. Dr. Mack King Carter and the Rev. Dr. Charles E. Booth.

Including the names provided above, the line-up for January 28-31, 2013 include the Rev. Dr. John E. Guns, the Rev. Dr. Marcus Cosby, the Rev. Dr. Mark Ellingsen, the Rev. Dr. Frederick Wright, and the Reverend Dr. Charles G. Adams, Distinguished William and Lucille Nickerson Professor of the Practice of Ethics and Ministry, Harvard Divinity School. The Reverend Dr. Frederick Wright, TTS alumnus will preach for the Founders’ Day observance on January 31, 2013 on the campus of the ITC. Lodging and all other activities will be hosted at the Hilton Atlanta Airport Hotel, 1031 Virginia Avenue, Atlanta, Georgia, 30354.

The Interdenominational Theological Center (ITC), of which Turner Seminary is one of six constituent schools, is an ecumenical graduate school accredited by the Association of Theological Schools of the USA and Canada and the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. As such, Turner Theological Seminary students, through the ITC, are exposed to an interdenominational, multi-racial faculty and student body and may receive one of six degrees offered. They include Master of Divinity, Master of Arts in Church Music, Doctor of Ministry, and Doctor of Theology in Pastoral Counseling.  Turner Seminary graduates also participate in many areas of Christian ministry within the African Methodist Episcopal Church.

This occasion is a vision of Dr. Green and celebrates this objective, as well as, the history and work of TTS and its commitment to the motto “For a Prepared Ministry” which is in keeping with the aim of its founders to be “an institution for the preparation of young men and women for every department of Christian work.” Turner graduates can be found in all areas of the Church: college and seminary teachers and presidents, pastors, presiding elders and bishops, and civic and political officials.

Make plans early and we look forward to seeing you in January!

13. THE TEXAS ANNUAL CONFERENCE:

By Rev. Salatheia Bryant-Honors

Revival was in the air at the Texas Annual Conference reminiscent of the early Methodist great camp meetings of the past. We were called to revival by Bishop Vashti Murphy McKenzie as she encouraged the gathered body of the conference to go higher.

Members of the annual conference were revived through preaching, teaching, liturgical dance, choir singing and prayer, including a priestly prayer offered by Bishop  McKenzie on the opening night service for pastors and ministers.

Bishop McKenzie admonished the clergy not to make peace with the status quo.

“My prayer is that you will not make peace with your status quo,” she said. “My prayer is that you will dig a little deeper, jump a little higher and reach beyond the boundaries. Jesus came to break through the status quo. The best way to not make peace is not to be satisfied with where you are.”

The 146^th Session of the Texas Annual Conference was held at the Crowne Plaza in Houston. The conference was hosted by Jones Worship Center from Oct. 22 through Oct. 27.

It was a week of spiritual and missional renewal for missionaries, lay leaders, YPDers, and clergy as the conference embraced the district’s theme of “Imagine AME.” Imagine AME calls for members to imagine greater possibilities for the Church. The theme was based on Ephesians 3:20.

The revivalist for the week was the Rev. Matthew Watley who preached two mid-day sermons and the ordination message.  Each message called clergy and lay members of the annual conference and visitors to a greater level of service. For the ordination sermon, the Rev. Watley preached “Line up on the Cross” using I Corinthians 1:18-25 as the text for the message.

Watley told the two ordinands not to line-up with the chairs (the people), the lectern, nor the communion table but he told them to line up on the cross. He said the cross represents sin and salvation. He said that we are living in a Cross-less time where people have a Christianity of convenience.

“We have too many Cross-less churches and Cross-less preachers. If you want to be effective in ministry just preach Jesus,” said Watley. “It still works. Just preach salvation. It still works. Stick with the cross, stick with the gospel. We are called to be people of the cross. The blood still works you don’t have to sell out. We preach Christ and him crucified.”

The Rev. Brenda Arnold Scott and the Rev. Rhonda Green Harmon were ordained as Itinerant Elders. Following the ordination, Bishop McKenzie allowed the newly ordained Elders to serve communion to their families and to the Board of Examiners. The two newest elders received the highest honor of also serving communion to Bishop McKenzie.

During the annual conference the Rev. Bobby Sonier offered an emotional final pastoral report. He was joined on the floor with his wife and other pastors.

He retired from the active ministry after 27-years of pastoral service having served several congregations. Sonier was most recently the pastor of Johnson Chapel in Houston. Sonier was well-known throughout the conference for his moving prayers.

“I’ve been knocked down and had two heart attacks. I’m about to come to the end of my journey,” said Sonier. “I want to thank my wife. All my friends I met along the way. I want to thank you Bishop for the opportunity to read this report.”

A celebration of his ministry was held on the morning of the closing of the annual conference.

The theme of revival continued to the closing worship service.

After the liturgical dancers ministered to the song “It's Not Over” by Karen Clark Sheard the Spirit fell mightily in the hotel-sanctuary and pre-empted the printed worship guide. Sensing the move of the divine among us Bishop McKenzie declared:  “It’s preaching time!” 

Bishop McKenzie preached a sermon that aptly fit the moment entitled: “I feel like busting loose” from the text Isaiah 43:16-21.

Bishop McKenzie said that a single pebble starts an avalanche. She said many people become problem-definers rather than problem-solvers.

“Avalanches are part of the human condition. It is not if you have an avalanche it is when. Negative people have a flair for pointing out the problem,” said Bishop McKenzie.  “Instead of feeling helpless look at the avalanche as a challenge to bring out your competitive nature.”

Bishop McKenzie said “God broke into the children of Israel’s wilderness with good news. God broke up what was holding them down and he broke out.”

“As it was with them God has the power to do with us this annual conference year. This is going to be your break-out year. Don’t hold me back. Don’t’ hold me down and don’t get in the way,” Bishop McKenzie said.

In addition to the worship, Bishop McKenzie presided over the business sessions of the annual conference.

There were many additional touches that added flair to the conference including: the ushers dressed in black and red, a band accompanied the choir, a youth choir from James Madison High School sang on Paul Quinn Night, and an original skit was performed by members of the Texas Conference YPD that featured the district’s theme. On Paul Quinn Night College President Michael J. Sorrell shared the school’s most recent achievements including being featured in several national publications. The Texas Conference raised more than $10,000 for the school.

The conference started with the Rev. Tamika Baker preaching “Dare to Imagine More” for the WMS Night in White held at Evangelist Chapel using the theme scripture of Ephesians 3:20 as the sermon text.

“Seldom does God give us a finished product,” said Reverend Baker. “He wants to dare us tonight to imagine more. As far as you can see you should imagine more. The extent of your vision is the extent of what you can imagine.”

During the WMS service, 18 of the 43 new members participated in the pinning service and two life members were inducted.

The Rev. Ralph Martin opened the conference with the annual sermon entitled “A Man That is Called Jesus” using the text John 9:1-11. Martin reminded the opening night crowd that the word convicts, converts and comforts.

“He received his sight. The man had a testimony. You can’t come into contact with Jesus and remain the same,” said Martin.

On the opening night Bishop McKenzie was introduced by North Houston District Presiding Elder Alfred J. Baker who referred to Bishop’s McKenzie’s historic election to the bench of bishops. Bishop McKenzie was appointed to the Tenth Episcopal District during this past gathering of the General Conference.

 “We feel blessed here in Texas that God has answered our prayer. There is no limit to what we can do if we can just imagine and let God take control of us,” Baker said in his introduction.

Conference members left the conference with uplifted spirits and their imaginations opened to greater possibilities and advancements.

14. LIBERIAN NATIVE BECOMES PRESIDENT OF BISHOP HENRY MCNEAL TURNER AME CHAPLAIN ASSOCIATION:

At the 49th Quadrennial Session of the General Conference of the African Methodist Episcopal Church (AME), Chaplain (Major) Mark Bayogar Cisco was elected and installed by Bishop John F White, Ecumenical Officer and Endorser AME as the president of the Bishop Henry McNeal Turner AME Chaplain Association. Chaplain Cisco succeeded LT COL Odell Bell, who recently retired from the Air Force active service. The AME General Conference was held from June 27 to July 4 2012 at the Gaylord Opryland and Resort Convention Center, Nashville, Tennessee. 

The Bishop Henry McNeal Turner AME Chaplain Association is a connectional component of the AME Church and it is named in honor of the first African American Chaplain in the United States Army who served during the Civil War. The Bishop Henry McNeal Turner AME Chaplains are members of the General Conference which meets every four year; however, the Chaplain Association meets annually at a time and place designated by the ecumenical officer and endorser of the AME Church.

As president of the AME Chaplain Association, Chaplain Cisco and his executive team are responsible for providing guidance, direction and leadership for all Veteran Affairs Chaplains, Federal Bureau of Prisons Chaplains, Institutional Chaplains and Armed Forces Chaplains in the Unites States and Overseas Episcopal Districts of the AME Church.

Chaplain Cisco is a native of Liberia, West Africa; He is an itinerant elder in the African Methodist Episcopal Church (AME). He has been an itinerant elder since 1984 and has pastored several AME Churches in Liberia, West Africa and the United States.

Chaplain Cisco is currently assigned with the Medical Recruiting Brigade, Chaplain Recruiting Branch at Fort Knox, Kentucky. As a chaplain recruiter with the Chaplain Recruiting Branch, he is assigned with the North Central Chaplain Recruiting Team as the Future Chaplain Manager, Great Lakes, Illinois.  His area of responsibility covers twelve north central states. Prior to this assignment, he served as the brigade chaplain at the 157th Infantry Brigade, Division East, and First Army. With First Army, he was primarily responsible for training and mentoring deploying unit ministry teams (UMT). 

Chaplain Cisco is former Dean and Vice President of Student Services at Morris Brown College in Atlanta, Georgia. For over seven years, he served as the Director of Campus Ministry and College Chaplain at Morris Brown College. As the college Chaplain and Director of Campus Ministry, he planned and implemented all phases of religious and spiritual events on the college campus. Chaplain Cisco mentored several young men and women for the pastoral ministry. Most of them today are serving in places of responsibility and are contributing to society. He also taught courses in the Humanities Department as part of his pastoral responsibility. He was promoted to the rank of Assistant Professor in September, 2004. He served the Morris Brown College for over 19 years as Residential Living Counselor, Director of Housing, College Pastor, Assistant Professor, and Dean/Vice President Student Services.

In July 1999, Chaplain Cisco was commissioned as a First Lieutenant in the United States Army Reserve and in November 1999 was assigned as the Chaplain for the 490th Chemical Battalion with units covering four states, Georgia, South Carolina, Alabama, and Florida. While still serving at the 490th Chemical Battalion, In June, 2004, He was promoted to the rank of Captain; and in April 2005, he was transferred to the 352nd CSSB in Macon, Georgia as the Battalion Chaplain.  In February, 2010, he was promoted to the rank of Major.

Chaplain Cisco is a graduate of the Chaplain Officer Basic Course and Chaplain Captain Advance Course. He is currently a student at the Command and General Staff College. Decorations, medals, badges, citations and campaigns ribbons awarded include the following: Bronze Star Medal, Meritorious Service Medal, Army Reserve Component Achievement Medal, National Defense Service Medal, and Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Iraq Campaign Medal, Armed Forces Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon, Armed Forces Reserve Medal and Combat Action badge.

 He holds Doctor of Ministry Degree (D.Min.) from Turner Theological Seminary at Interdenominational Theological Center in Atlanta, Georgia. In 1989, he graduated with the Master of Divinity and in 1997 graduated with Masters of Arts in Counseling from Clark Atlanta University. He is currently certified with the Georgia Professional Standards as a Georgia Educator, certified to provide guidance and counseling from elementary through high school.

15. THE 64^TH ANNUAL SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA CONFERENCE LAY ORGANIZATION’S EXTRAVAGANZA:

An Occasion to remember, and a time to honor and praise Christian unity, with a moment to shop joyfully, describes the essence of this yearly event. On Saturday, November 10, 2012 from 12 p.m. until 5 p.m. the Clergy and Laity of the Southern Californian Conference Lay Organization came together for an annual banquet at the Proud Bird restaurant and historic airplane museum near the Los Angeles International Airport.  This year’s theme was “Clergy and Laity as Partners in Ministry”.  In addition to presenting our traditional awards, each Pastor was given the Connectional Lay Centennial Pin along with a Certificate of Appreciation for their participation with the Lay Organization.  Each local Lay President was given the honor of “Pinning” their pastors with the new Lapel Pins.  The Presiding Elders of each Presiding Elder’s District were also “Pinned” by our Conference President, Dr. Dorothy Vails-Weber. Guests who were in attendance received door prizes from secret drawings of their ticket stubs.

A season of shopping was also offered during a joyful silent auction and gift buying time before, and during the banquet.  After an afternoon of dinning and listening to the dynamic vocal sounds of Mr. Henry Jackson, our guest gospel singer, songwriter and musician, the winners of the evening awards were announced to the guest.

 The Awardees:

Floyd Webster Trailblazer Award: Wilnetta Jenkins, Second AME Church, Los Angeles. Ms. Wilnetta Jenkins is a life member in the Southern California Conference Lay Organization representing over fifteen years of active service to the Lay Organization.  She served as Corresponding Secretary of the Conference Lay Organization and continues her work by serving as treasurer of the local organization at Second AME Church. Her love for the Lay Organization is evident as she contributes her time, talent and treasure to the advancement of the organization.

Community Service Award: Jacqueline Dupont-Walker, Ward AME Church, Los Angeles. Mrs. Dupont-Walker is an active, committed, and dedicated person working in her church and community.  She provides much needed service to all those in need: spiritually, physically, socially, and culturally. She has worked tirelessly to ensure the education, mobilization, and registration of voters for the historic November 6, 2012 elections.

Evangelism Award: Wallace Coleman, Grant AME Church, Los Angeles. For the last 20 years Mr. Wallace Coleman has been bringing at least 7 youths from his community between the ages of 12 and 18 to church every Sunday. These unsaved, “unchurched,” and unconcerned youth would not be in church today, if Mr. Coleman had not reached out to them. His ability to step out of his comfort zone has brought them more happiness, peace, and harmony and made a positive difference in their lives. These youth have become active in church and have accepted Jesus Christ as their savior.

Outstanding Lay Person of the Year: Jessica Randle, Bryant Temple AME Church, Los Angeles. Mrs. Jessica Randle has been a member of the Bryant Temple Lay Organization for over 10 years, serving as Vice President for seven years and as President since December 2011.  Mrs. Randle successfully chaired various committees during her tenure as Vice President.   As a professional with ethics and etiquette, she has been the same with all people.  Since ascending to the Presidency, she has led two wonderful and well-attended Lay Days at Bryant Temple, and planned Christmas party activities and the annual Elegant Tea.  On the conference level, she has served as a delegate to the district convention, hosted a Lay Council, and attended many Lay Day programs.

Outstanding Pastor of the Year: The Rev. Vernon S. Burroughs, Grant AME Church, Los Angeles. Through the teachings and encouragement of the Rev. Vernon S. Burroughs, officers are held accountable for the activities and needs of the church. There is a partnership between the pastor and the officers to share in the administration of the church, resulting in a more stable congregation both spiritually and financially.  Officers feel it is their responsibility to take care of the needs of the church.  This attitude has empowered members to keep the church in a presentable manner. When asked about the Rev. Burroughs’ accomplishments, a member summed it up by saying “he is just a pastor”; that’s the highest compliment because it demonstrates his faithful service to the church of Richard Allen. Pastor Burroughs keeps with the history and traditions of the AME Church by offering a plain and simple gospel.  He has one message and that is the saving grace of Christ.  He is consistent in his message that makes the Grant Family an “Acts: 2” Church.             

Scholarship Awards: Briana Little of Bethel AME, Los Angeles and Alexis Jackson of Grant AME Los Angeles. Briana and Alexis are this year’s winners of the Southern California Conference Annual Scholarship Award. Both young ladies will receive a $500 check once they have enrolled or return to their college of choice.

16. NEWS AROUND THE AME CHURCH:

The Rev. Dr. Lanel Guyton, who had been serving in Bermuda, has been named the new Pastor of St Matthew AME Church in East Orange, New Jersey succeeding Bishop Reginald T. Jackson.

17. PAUL QUINN COLLEGE NAMES EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR TO LEAD THE COLLEGE’S CENTER FOR FUNDRAISING AND PHILANTHROPY:

Dallas – November 26, 2012 – Paul Quinn College has announced that celebrated fundraising and development professional Halima N. Leak will serve as the inaugural Executive Director for the Center for Fundraising and Philanthropy at Paul Quinn College (the Center), which is scheduled to open in January, 2013. As a result of Leak’s nearly fifteen years of experience as both a fundraising practitioner and an educator, she is uniquely qualified to launch the Center which will house an innovative academic program.  The Center will inspire a radical change in the way colleges view their roles in fundraising and producing development professionals.  Leak will be formally introduced to the public at Paul Quinn’s Media and Community Appreciation Day on February 25, 2013.

“When we began our national search, Halima’s name immediately grabbed our attention.  To land her out of the gate is a true blessing,” said Michael J. Sorrell, President of Paul Quinn College. “Her hiring speaks volumes of our capacity to achieve our goal of building one of the pre-eminent fundraising centers in America.”

The Center’s programming will be aimed at encouraging the development of a deeper understanding of fundraising and philanthropy through teaching, training, and research via professional development opportunities and by facilitating the exchange of resources and ideas related to fundraising and philanthropy.  It will be the only one of its kind at a historically black college or university and home to one of the few undergraduate fundraising programs available nationally. Students will be prepared for careers related to fundraising and philanthropy including areas such as institutional advancement, faith-based fundraising, grant-making, planned giving, special events, and research. In addition, students will also be actively involved in the newly created collegiate chapter of the Association of Fundraising Professionals, which was established in July through a partnership with the AFP Dallas Chapter.

The fundraising and philanthropy undergraduate program was designed by Dr. Marybeth Gasman of the University of Pennsylvania and Nelson Bowman III of Prairie View A&M University, decorated authorities in fundraising research and practice and authors of “A Guide to Fundraising at Historically Black Colleges and Universities: An All Campus Approach” and “Engaging Diverse College Alumni: The Essential Guide to Fundraising” (forthcoming 2013).

"I have known Halima for years and I immediately thought of her for this position. She has the perfect combination of fundraising experience, academic background, professional connections, and personality to ensure the center is a success," said Dr. Gasman.

“Conceiving (the Center) was a dream…watching it come into fruition, a dream come true” said Mr. Bowman.

Leak comes to Paul Quinn College from City University of New York, where she served as Director of Alumni Relations and Development for the School of Professional Studies. She has also worked as a fundraising practitioner at New York University, Barnard College of Columbia University, and Communities in Schools of Wake County (North Carolina). She earned a Bachelor of Arts in English from Hampton University and Master of Arts in Educational Sociology from the New York University Steinhardt School of Education where her master thesis was on “Alumni Giving and Historically Black Colleges and Universities.” Leak is also a Ph.D. candidate at the New York University Steinhardt School of Education. She began her new role at Paul Quinn College on October 1, and also serves as the Director of Development for the college for an interim period.

“The Center for Fundraising and Philanthropy at Paul Quinn is truly a groundbreaking endeavor.  Because it is the first such Center at an HBCU, it is uniquely positioned to be a leader in enhancing society’s understanding of charitable giving and issues related to the fundraising profession,” said Leak. “The Center serves a great need in providing a pipeline of diverse talent for organizations and institutions.  As a scholar and practitioner, I am delighted to see the Center emerge and I look forward to working with our partners to make a positive impact on the field.”

About Paul Quinn College

Paul Quinn College, the 2011 HBCU of the Year, is a private, faith-based, four-year liberal arts-inspired college founded by and affiliated with the African Methodist Episcopal Church. The College was founded in Austin, Texas, on April 4, 1872, and is one of the nation’s consortiums of Historically Black Colleges and Universities. The College provides a quality, faith-based education that addresses the academic, social, and Christian development of students and prepares them to be servant leaders and agents of change in the global marketplace. Members of the College’s student body, alumni, faculty and staff, called Quinnites, embrace the institutional ethos of “WE over Me” and are dedicated to honouring the “Four Ls of Quinnite Leadership,” which are: Leave places better than you found them; Lead from wherever you are; Live a life that matters; and Love something greater than yourself.

18. NEW YEAR, RENEWED COMMITMENT TO ENDING HUNGER:

By Bishop Don DiXon Williams, Bread for the World

What will it take to end hunger? Some might say, “more food” or “more charity.” Still others might say that it simply cannot be done. But at Bread for the World, we believe ending global hunger is quite possible and that we already have the means to do it. There is more than enough food to feed the world, but it will take strong political will—not simply charity—to make it happen.

You may be familiar with the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs). These eight international targets range from cutting extreme poverty in half to halting the spread of HIV/AIDS to providing universal primary education—all by 2015. These goals have served as a blueprint for countries and for the world’s leading development institutions.

Since the MDGs were established in 2000, the world has made significant progress toward achieving the targets, but there is still much to be done. In 2015, leaders from around the world will decide on a new set of global development goals. Achieving them will depend on the commitment of global political leaders.

Bread for the World’s 2013 Hunger Report, “Within Reach—Global Development Goals,” calls for a renewed push to meet the MDGs and a dedicated commitment to ending hunger and poverty after 2015. To ensure a strong U.S. commitment, the 2013 Hunger Report specifically calls on President Barack Obama and other U.S. leaders to rally the rest of the world.

However, the buck doesn’t stop with world leaders. If we are serious about ending hunger here in the United States, we must do our part as citizens to motivate our government. Any effort to alleviate hunger is commendable; many of us help people in need by contributing to food pantries and charities. This is crucial and we need to continue efforts to feed hungry people in our communities. But we cannot “food bank” our way out of hunger. All of the food that churches and charities collect for hungry people equals only about 5 percent of what federal nutrition programs provide.

Internationally, ending hunger depends up improving access, development, agriculture, and trade. In other words, hunger and poverty are bigger than charity. We must take action and hold our lawmakers accountable. As Proverbs 31:8-9 tells us, “Speak out for those who cannot speak, for the rights of all the destitute. Speak out, judge righteously, and defend the rights of the poor and needy.” By changing policies, programs, and conditions that allow hunger and poverty to persist, we provide help and opportunity far beyond the communities where we live.

As we embark on a new year, we should urge our lawmakers to renew their commitment to ending global hunger and poverty. I encourage you to visit www.bread.org/hungerreport to learn more.

Bishop Don DiXon Williams is racial/ethnic outreach associate at Bread for the World and sits on the Board of Bishops of the United Church of Jesus Christ, Baltimore, Md.

19. MESSAGE FROM THE UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA):

Dear community partner,

On September 27, 2012, Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack announced that Hispanic and women farmers and ranchers who allege discrimination by the USDA in past decades can file claims between September 24, 2012 and March 25, 2013.

As part of our ongoing outreach efforts, we at the Center for Faith-Based and Neighborhood Partnerships are working to ensure that eligible individuals know that the Claims Process is now open and that our partners know where to direct interested individuals for additional information and legal assistance.

We would appreciate your help sharing this information with farmers and ranchers in your communities and congregations. Please share this information with colleagues electronically or post it in a public space in your centers or congregations. You can find material that can be downloaded or printed for use in newsletters or church bulletins, by clicking here.  We sincerely appreciate your passing this message along to those in your networks who live and work in rural communities, and who may know eligible Hispanic and women farmers and ranchers who may have been discriminated during the years of 1981-2000.

If this is a topic of particular interest to your neighbors or members of your congregation, please consider hosting a conversation in your organization or church.  If you are interested in becoming engaged or learning more, please contact us at collaborate@usda.gov and use the subject line Farmers and Ranchers.

Sincerely,

Roxana Barillas

Deputy Director, Center for Faith-Based and Neighborhood Partnerships

U.S. Department of Agriculture

collaborate@usda.gov

(202) 720-2032

Attention Hispanic and Women Farmers and Ranchers

If you, or someone you know, believe the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) has improperly denied you farm loan benefits between 1981 and 2000 because you are Hispanic or female, you may be eligible to apply for compensation.

Claims MUST be filed between September 24, 2012 and March 25, 2013 to be considered for cash payment or loan forgiveness. If you think you might be eligible to file a claim, please access the Farmer and Rancher Call Center or Website: 1-888-508-4429 or www.farmerclaims.gov

For guidance, you may contact an attorney or other legal service provider in your community. If you are currently represented by an attorney regarding allegations of discrimination or in a lawsuit claiming discrimination, you should contact your attorney regarding this claims process. USDA cannot provide legal advice.

Atención Agricultores y Ganaderos Hispanos o Mujeres Agricultoras o Ganaderas

Si usted o alguien que usted conoce consideran que el Departamento de Agricultura de Estados Unidos (USDA por sus siglas en inglés) le negó indebidamente beneficios de préstamos agrícolas entre los años 1981 y 2000 por ser hispano o mujer, es posible que cumpla con los requisitos para solicitar compensación.

Las reclamaciones DEBEN recibirse entre el 24 de septiembre de 2012 y el 25 de marzo de 2013 para ser consideradas para pago en efectivo o alivio de deuda. Si usted considera que califica para solicitar compensación, por favor llame al Centro de Llamadas para Agricultores y Ganaderos o ingrese a la página web: 1-888-508-4429 e www.farmerclaims.gov

Para recibir asesoramiento, comuníquese con un abogado u otro proveedor de servicios legales en su comunidad. Si a usted actualmente lo representa un abogado o ha iniciado una demanda alegando discriminación por el USDA, debe ponerse en contacto con su abogado con respecto a este proceso de reclamaciones. El USDA no le puede ofrecer asesoría legal.

20. MEDITATION BASED ON JOSHUA 4:1-7:

*The Rev. Dr. Joseph A. Darby

Every Christmas season reminds me that we had two Christmas trees in our home when my sons were younger. 

The one in the living room - the “tasteful tree,” was a product of my wife’s good taste.  It had red, blue, green and gold ornaments that matched the room’s decor, a matching set of lovely African angels, well-crafted ornaments that symbolized the “Twelve Days of Christmas” and elegant strings of garland.

The one in the den - the “tacky tree” – was a product of my wife’s reluctant permission to let me violate her good taste.  It had ornaments accumulated through many Christmases, in assorted colors and odd shapes and made of everything from metal to plastic to cardboard to old, shellacked cookies.  The garland, that once adorned the “tasteful tree,” had been crushed by years of packing and unpacking and looked more like a ragged golden rope, and the angel on top looked like she’d been to one Christmas party too many and was about to keel over and pass out!

The “tasteful tree” was beautifully exquisite, but I liked the “tacky tree” because the ornaments – some as old as I am - were reminders of my childhood, of my sons growing from boyhood to manhood and of many Christmases gone by - some lean and some bountiful.

Those trees are a reflection of all of our lives.  We all strive to be the best that we can be and to have the best that life can offer so that we can present as positive an image as the “tasteful tree.”  All of us, however, have our share of “tacky” times - times of satisfaction and sorrow, of success and struggle, of triumph and trial.  When we remember, however, that God stands with us in our best and worst times, then all that we’ve gone through will remind us of God’s grace, God’s goodness and God’s provision.

Rather than ignoring the odds, ends and rough times of our lives, we should celebrate them.  When we do, then just as was true of my family’s “tacky tree,” the memory of what God has brought us through will become our testimony to God’s power. 

When we honestly remember and celebrate our yesterdays, we can face life expecting bright tomorrows and appreciate why one modern Gospel song says, “When I look around and think things over, all of my good days outweigh my bad days - I won’t complain.”

If you are in the Charleston, South Carolina area, join us on the First Sunday in December for Church School at 8:45 am and for Worship at 10 am.  We’ll celebrate the First Sunday in Advent and the Lord’s Supper, and we’ll welcome and hear from the Burke High School Band before they march in Charleston’s Christmas Parade.  The Combined Choir, Gospel Choir and Morris Brown Mass Choir will offer praise.

Sunday’s Scripture Lessons are:

Isaiah 2:1-5

Galatians 4:1-7

Luke 1:5-17

Sunday’s Sermon is:  “Get Ready to Celebrate”

*The Rev. Dr. Joseph A. Darby is the pastor of Morris Brown AME Church in Charleston, South Carolina

21. CLERGY FAMILY CONGRATULATORY ANNOUNCEMENT:

- The Rev. and Mrs. Ashley Cox will celebrate their 25^th Wedding Anniversary

The Reverend Ashley Cox and Sister Tracey Cox will celebrate their 25^th Wedding Anniversary on Sunday, December 2, 2012. The Reverend Cox is the pastor at St. Matthew A.M.E. Church in Cornersville, Tennessee.

Congratulatory messages can be emailed to: cox_rev.aq@hotmail.com

- Mrs. Mary M. Hughes, widow of the late Reverend Suspencer Hughes, 7th Episcopal District, celebrated her 99^th Birthday, November 21^st

We are thankful to God to announce that Mrs. Mary M. Hughes celebrated her 99^th birthday on November 21st.  She is the widow of the late Rev. Suspencer Hughes (7^th District) and the mother of Presiding Elder Thomas M. Hughes (4^th District); Mrs. Wilhemena Hughes-Sapp (2^nd District); and Mrs. Gwendolyn Hughes-McCottry (1^st District). Mrs. Hughes is a native of Kingstree, South Carolina; a retired public school teacher and a life member of the Women's Missionary Society.

Please send birthday greetings to:

Mrs. Mary M. Hughes

230-46 147th Avenue

Rosedale, New York 11413-4409

Belated birthday greetings can be emailed:

petmhughes299@sbcglobal.net.

22. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

We sadly announce the death of Mrs. Fabienne Johns Williams of Columbus, Ohio after a lengthy battle with Uterine Cancer. Fabienne is the daughter of the late Rev. Clarence B. Johns, Jr. who served as pastor of St. Paul A.M.E. Church, Rockville Centre, NY and Bethel A.M.E. Church, Huntington, NY. Her mother is Jeanette T. Johns who continues to maintain membership at Bethel, Huntington. Fabienne's survivors include her husband, Stephen, and her twins Michelle and Sherman who will soon begin their last semester of college.

The following information is provided regarding funeral arrangements:

Tuesday, December 4, 2012

1:00 P.M. - Viewing

2:00 – Service

Diehl-Whittaker Funeral Home

720 E. Long Street

Columbus, OH 43203

Telephone: 614-258-9549

Interment: Glen Rest Cemetery in Reynoldsburg, Ohio.

Services provided by:

Diehl-Whittaker Funeral Home

720 E. Long Street

Columbus, OH

Telephone: 614-258-9549

directors@diehl-whittaker.com 

Expressions of Sympathy may be sent to:

Mr. Stephen Williams and Family

2586 Stacie Lane

Columbus, OH 43224

Mrs. Jeanette T. Johns and Family

25 Van Buren Street

Farmingdale, NY  11735

Email: jjohns@suffolk.lib.ny.us  

Expressions of sympathy may be placed in the online Guest Book:

http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/dispatch/obituary.aspx?n=fabienne-j-williams&pid=161303024&fhid=8500#fbLoggedOut

23. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

Please join us in prayer as Presiding Elder James H. Giles, (Presiding Elder of the Crossett District, East Arkansas Conference) and family mourn the passing of their oldest sister, Henrietta Stitt. Henrietta went to her heavenly home on Monday, November 26, 2012.

Home Going Celebration will be held:

Saturday, December 1, 2012 at 1:00 p.m.

Mt. Canaan Missionary Baptist Church

410 South 5th Street

Gurdon, Arkansas 71743

Services Entrusted To:

Williams Funeral Home, Inc.

P.O. Box 325

1517 Caddo Street

Arkadelphia, Arkansas 71923

Telephone: (870) 246-4211; (870) 230-2869

Expressions of Condolences:

The Rev. James H. Giles, Sr.

P.O. Box 1152

Arkadelphia, Arkansas 71923

Telephone: (870) 230-2869

Email: JamesHgs54@suddenlink.net

24. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

Connectional Officer Family Bereavement

We regret to inform you of the passing of Mrs. Vinita Mitchell of Oklahoma City, OK. She was the 92 year old aunt of Mrs. Fredia A. Hanley-Johnson, Connectional President of Conn-M-SWAWO Plus PK's.

Celebration of Life Service:

Saturday, December 1, 2012 at 11:00 AM

Earl M. Temple Memorial Chapel

2801 N. Kelley Avenue

Oklahoma City, OK 73111

Services provided by:

Temple and Sons Funeral Directors, Inc.

2801 N. Kelley Avenue

Oklahoma City, OK 73111

Phone: (405) 427-8321

Interment:

Trice Hill Cemetery

Oklahoma City, OK

Expressions of sympathy may be sent to:

Sister Fredia A. Hanley-Johnson

4231 Fairlawn Drive

Wilmington, NC 28405

Email: Frediaj2@gmail.com

Online Guest Book: http://templeandsons.com/index.php

25. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

We regret to inform you of the passing of Brother Darryl Duncan, the husband of the Rev. Portia Williams-Duncan, Pastor of St. Peter Memorial A.M.E. Church-Arlington, Texas; Northwest Texas Conference-Greater Fort Worth District-Rev. Johnny Ray Mitchell, Presiding Elder. Brother Darryl Duncan went home to be with the Lord, Saturday, November 24, 2012. Please be in prayer for the Rev. Portia Williams-Duncan.

Brother Darryl Duncan's final earthly care has been entrusted to:

Heavenly Gates Funeral Home

702 Gatewood Road

Garland, Texas 75043

Ph: (972) 240-2121

The following information has been provided regarding Wake and Homegoing Celebration.

Wake: Sunday, December 2nd, 2012 - 7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. - St. Peter Memorial AME Church

Homegoing Celebration: Monday, December 3, 2012 - 12 p.m. (Noon) - St. Peter Memorial AME Church

St. Peter Memorial AME Church

The Rev. Portia Williams-Duncan

2300 E. Park Row

Arlington, Texas 76010

Condolences may be sent to the Rev. Portia Williams Duncan:

The Rev. Portia Williams-Duncan

606 Kelly Terrace

Arlington, Texas 76010

Telephone: (817) 443-4664 or (817) 805-9461

Email: portiaduncan22@yahoo.com 

26. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

We wish to inform you of the home going of 30-year-old Dwight A. Hardwick, the grandson of Licentiate Regina Dykes, the supply pastor of New Life AME Church in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Please keep Sister Dykes and her entire family in prayer, her brother passed away just two weeks ago.

The final arrangements are as follows:

Viewing: Friday, November 30, 2012 4 p.m. - 8 p.m. at Lighthouse Cathedral 810 Fisher Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15210

Home Going Celebration: Saturday, December 1, 2012 at 11:00 a.m. at Lighthouse Cathedral 810 fisher Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15210

Final arrangements have been entrusted to Spriggs and Watson Funeral Home, 720 N Lang Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15208; Phone: (412) 243-8080, Fax: (412) 243-2614.

Licentiate Regina Ragin Dykes can be contacted at:

170 Broadcrest Drive

Pittsburgh, PA 15235

(412) 983-9351

revdykes@yahoo.com 

27. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

This comes to share with the General AME Church, the passing of Attorney Christopher C. Mercer, a former General Counsel of the AME Church. Mr. Mercer passed on Tuesday, November 20, 2012 after a lengthy illness.

A Reflection Ceremony was held on Monday, November 26, 2012 and the Celebration of Life was held on Tuesday, November 27, 2012 at St. Mark Baptist Church in Little Rock, Arkansas. Pastor D. Lavel Crawford will be the officiant, and Bishop Samuel L. Green, Sr. will be the eulogist.

Mrs. Pamela Mercer and the family may be contacted at:

5812 Drexel Avenue,

Little Rock, Arkansas

Telephone: 501-568-7390.

Expressions of sympathy may be placed in the online Guest Book:

http://mitchellfuneralservices.com/fh/obituaries/obituary.cfm?o_id=1830028&fh_id=12651

28. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

Brother Grenville L. Williams, of Clewiston, Florida transitioned from labor to reward on Tuesday, November 20, 2012. Brother Williams was the father of the Rev. Roger L. D. Williams, pastor of Mount Zion AME Church in Hastings, Florida. Brother Williams was a member of New Bethel AME Church, Clewiston, where he served on the Trustee Board and sang in the choir.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, November 27, 2012 from 5-7 p.m. at Reddick Funeral Home, 1181 Harlem Academy Avenue, Clewiston FL 33440.

A service of Celebration was held on Wednesday, November 28, 2012 at New Bethel AME Church in Clewiston, Florida, where the Rev. Emmanuel Menage serves as pastor.

Expressions of sympathy may be sent to the family:

The Reverend & Mrs. Roger L. D. Williams

9132 Paisley Court

Jacksonville, FL 32257

Email: rldw@bellsouth.net

29. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

We regret to announce the passing Sister Rosetta Matthews, a member of the Macon Conference M-SWAWO and the wife of retired pastor, the Rev. Willie Matthews.

Family and friends gathered on Tuesday, November 27, 2012 to celebrate the life of Sister Rosetta Matthews at St. Mary's AME Church, located in Thomaston, Georgia. The homegoing service was officiated by the Rev. Coleman Dumas, III, pastor of St. Mary's AME Church.

Expressions of sympathy may be sent to:

The Rev. Willie Matthews & Family

C/o St. Mary's AME Church

601 North Hightower St.

Thomaston, Georgia 30286

30. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

It is with deep regret that we announce the passing of Mrs. Rebecca Frazier Cooper on November 24, 2012, the mother of Gwendolyn C. Brown, immediate past Conference M-SWAWO President, and the mother-in-law of the Reverend Ronnie Brown, pastor of Pinegrove AME Church in the Manning District of the Central South Carolina Conference.

The funeral service for Mrs. Rebecca F. Cooper was held on Tuesday, November 28, 2012 at St. Mark A.M.E Church in Hemingway, South Carolina where the Rev. Arthur Ford is the pastor

Contact for Gwendolyn C. Brown & Rev. Ronnie Brown:

Phone: (843) 558-3010 (H)

(843) 409-2167 (Cell)

Email: gmabelbrown@aol.com

Or

P.O. Box 730

Hemingway, S.C.  29554

31. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICES AND CONGRATULATORY ANNOUNCEMENTS PROVIDED BY:

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  

32. 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.

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