THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER ONLINE ENGLISH EDITION (6/15/12)

Bishop Richard Franklin Norris - Chair, Commission on Publications
The Reverend Dr. Johnny Barbour, Jr., Publisher
The Reverend Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III, the 20th Editor, The Christian Recorder

1. EDITORIAL – MESSENGER, TRAILBLAZER, STRATEGIST, VISIONARY, SOCIAL ENGINEER, ACTIVIST, SON OF THE SOUTH, BRIDGE BUILDER, TEACHER, PREACHER, SHEPHERD:

Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III,

The 20^th Editor, The Christian Recorder

The Service of Celebration for Bishop Hamil Hartford Brookins says that he was a messenger, trailblazer, strategist, visionary, social engineer, activist, son of the south, bridge builder, teacher, preacher, and shepherd. The program bulletin goes on to say that Bishop Hamil Hartford Brookins “was all of these titles and then some.”

Bishops, general officers, connectional officers, pastors, laity, visitors, distinguished guest and everyone else attended the funeral for a beloved bishop; and thousands viewed the vide-streamed Service of Celebration for the Right Reverend Hamel Hartford Brookins.

Fond memories

I have fond memories of Bishop Brookins because I worked closely with him when he was the Ecumenical Officer and Endorsing Agent for the African Methodist Episcopal Church. Later he became my Bishop when he was assigned as the Presiding Prelate of the 13^th Episcopal District. I had a lot of time to get to know Bishop Brookins and, if I had to add a couple of more “then some” titles to Bishop Brookins’ titles listed in the program bulletin, I would add, “Caring episcopal leader, a down to earth, authentic, generous, straight-forward, mentor, especially of young preachers, pioneer in pastoral appointments of female clergy; and the list can go on and on. He was authentic. Preachers, even pastors of small churches, felt comfortable talking with Bishop Brookins; he had a way of making people feel comfortable. He had a smile and a gleam in his eye and one could get the impression that it was no use on putting on any pretenses because Bishop Brookins could see right through any pretenses and he could “read” preachers and laity too.

When he was the AME Endorsing Agent for the federal chaplain ministry and I was the president of the AME Chaplains Association, there were several times, I thought that he needed to “come down a little harder” on the chaplains and he would he would smile, with that gleam in his eye, and say, “Don’t worry about it; it’ll be okay.”

Bishop Brookins knew how to run an Annual Conference and he knew how to make annual conferences fun. I enjoyed driving to every one of his annual conferences; I actually had a great time; I think everybody did.

I remember one pastor, who must have had a rough year. He went to the microphone to give his annual pastor’s report. He approached the microphone slowly as if he was tired. He began with the statement, “Bishop, this has been a rough year, the people were not…,” and it was at that point that Bishop Brookins in a pastoral way held up his hand and with a gleam in his eye and a smile on his lips said, “I hear you telling us what was wrong.  Were there any good things that happened last year? I don’t want you to focus on the negative things; share with us some of the good things that happened. Pastoral reports should focus on the positive and that might make you feel good and it might encourage your people who here with you. I want all of you pastors to hear what I am saying; we need to be more positive about our pastoral ministry.”

That pastor broke into the widest smile and affirmatively shook his head and went on to give a positive pastoral report that ended with, “Bishop, I want to go back.”  The delegate standing with him shouted, “That’s right bishop, we want our pastor back and we are going to work with him.”

The tone for that, and the subsequent Annual Conferences that Bishop Brookins held, was set.

Bishop Brookins held leisurely annual conferences, but all of the business was completed. Bishop H. Hartford Brookins was a pastor of pastors.

The Homegoing Celebration

The Homegoing Celebration for Bishop Brookins was a fitting celebration and many of us learned a lot more about his ministry. I believe it was the Governor who said, “I finally found out what the ‘H’ in his first name, H. Hartford Brookins stands for.”

A “rags to riches” life story and ministry

He was the seventh child of Mississippi sharecroppers, which meant that he was poor; sharecroppers have never been identified as middle-class; they have always been defined as poor. He could identify with the poor, but he didn’t let his early life of poverty define his life. He rose above poverty and his parental upbringing, religious and spiritual nurturing, and his subsequent education at Wilberforce University and Payne Theological Seminary put “fire in his gut” and motivated him to strive to be the “best of the best.”

He started his ministry in Mississippi in the 8^th Episcopal District; rose through the pastoral ranks to assume the pastorate of First AME Church, Los Angeles in the 5^th Episcopal District; and was elected and consecrated the 91^st Bishop of the African Methodist Episcopal Church.  

His obituary said, "From the beginning of his ministry, Bishop Brookins could capture the congregation's attention with his fiery and impassioned delivery. He spread the message of God's Word with energy and enthusiasm, whether preaching to ten or ten-thousand. His rich baritone and crisp diction  filled rooms with directions to ‘Give God praise, praise Him one more time, now praise Him again like you mean it!’ He had his own style of hooping and would bring the church to its feet as he lifted his arms and threw back his head while calling upon the Lord.”

Bishop Brookins appreciated education and was active in the Civil Rights Movement and uplift for the African American community during his ministry in Kansas and in California. He understood the importance of the Civil Rights’ Movement and the importance of the support and leadership of the AME Church.

He marched with Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and was unwavering in his support of equal rights and gender equality. He understood that the world was his parish and his ministry extended far and wide beyond the wall of the local church.

He challenged the members of the churches he pastored to dream big and to pursue their dreams with their heads up, shoulders back and surrounded by the shield of faith.

His ministry reach was far and wide

He vigorously supported many of the political candidates in the local and national political elections during his ministry and was especially influential when he was the pastor at First AME Church in Los Angeles. 

All of the present and former politicians who spoke at Bishop Brookins’ homegoing celebration spoke about his influence helping their political careers. 

A message from President William (Bill) Clinton; remarks from U.S. Congresswoman Maxine Waters, Governor Edmund Brown, retired Governor Gray Davis, Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa, Councilwoman Jan Perry and former presidential candidate, the Rev. Jesse Jackson underscore the far-reach of Bishop Brookins’ ministry and influence.

He was not only influential in the lives of politicians, but his spiritual reach was long and wide. AME bishops, general officers, connectional officers, episcopal supervisors, pastors and leaders from other denominations lauded the ministry of Bishop H. Hartford Brookins; he was a man for all seasons.

The Celebration of the Life of Bishop H. Hartford Brookins was officiated by Bishop John R. Bryant, AMEC Senior Bishop and Presiding Prelate of the 4^th Episcopal District and the inspiring eulogy was delivered by Bishop T. Larry Kirkland, Presiding Prelate of the 5^th Episcopal District.

Every speaker, every politician, every bishop, every preacher, every relative, and everybody who spoke had a Bishop Brookins story.

Bishop Brookins touched men and women in high places and he touched men, women, boys and girls who were just regular people – he touched all classes of people without regard for their social standing. He knew how to put people at ease. He was authentic and genuine.

In retirement, Bishop Brookins “provided counsel and encouragement for seasoned and neophyte clergypersons.” 

The Service of Celebration bulletin states, “While he walked with powerful leaders and power brokers, he was available to the everyday people, greeting the newspaper vendor with equal enthusiasm. He enjoyed a good cup of coffee and watching the Los Angeles Dodgers ballgames. He prayed with and for visitors at church and wherever he happened to be. He encouraged his brothers and sisters in African Methodism to ‘never let go of the church, never let go of God.’"

Bishop Hamil Hartford Brookins is survived by his wife the Rev. Rosalind Kyle Brookins; their son Sir-Wellington Hartford Brookins; his son Stephen Hartford Brookins and his daughter, the Rev. Francine a Brookins; his brother Herbert "Sandy" Brookins (Shirley), and one granddaughter Marina Brookins and a host of other relatives and numerous friends.

2. READER RESPONSE TO EDITORIAL AND OTHER ISSUES: 

To the Editor:

Thank you for keeping The Christian Recorder so alive and vital.  I love reading it - TCR is always a wealth of information; and that was a very special tribute that you wrote about Bishop Chappelle.  He was a classmate to my beloved Bishop Robert Thomas (Mother Beverly Thomas) and my current Bishop John Bryant.

I want to thank you for the article you wrote about Mother Beverly Thomas and the Fine Arts program at Camp Baber (May 14, 2012) This week, we will be sending over 90 gifted and talented students from the 4^th Episcopal District and Michigan Conference to camp where they will take classes in music, choral, concert band, drama, dance, news writing (maybe some future writers for The Christian Recorder), spoken word and photography.  They will train with teachers and professionals in their field of study.  We have worked hard all year to fund raise and 90% of the students will receive full scholarships.  Mother Beverly and her team believe that music and the arts can change the trajectory of a young person's life, and in a country where many schools no longer offer these classes, we hope that the AME Church through the work we do at Camp Baber and the Fine Arts Institute can fill that void.

I hope everyone will take the time to meet Mother Beverly at GC in Nashville.  She will be having an Art Exhibition are the Opryland on Friday June 29.  She is so compassionate and interesting -- she is a musician, artist, educator and former Supervisor who starting painting while assigned and living in South Africa with Bishop Robert Thomas.

Best regards,

Your most faithful reader

Tina Stephens

3. REFLECTIONS OF THE GENERAL BOARD MEETING IN ST. LOUIS, MISSOURI:

The Rev. Velma E. Grant, MDiv, ThM

People were milling around early in the morning in the hotel restaurant and as I was preparing to order breakfast, the young man in the wheel chair stopped and inquired if there was a church convention taking place in the hotel. Prior to responding to his question, I inquired why he would ask that question. He responded that if there was a group of well-dressed African Americans in the place, then chances are that they were there to attend a church convention. I could have taken the response personally (people could have been there for a corporate business summit) but I informed the young man that the AME Church was in fact convening for a General Board Meeting. Thankfully, the behavior of those gathered did not contradict the behavior of what is expected from church folks.

In light of the fact that this is the era of technology, church folks should be intentional and mindful that behavior which is contradictory can be captured in numerous ways and broadcast globally in an instance. There are numerous YouTube video-clips, FaceBook postings of people behaving badly.  Let us be in prayer in advance and throughout the upcoming General Conference that the work of the AME Church, along with the members of the church will not be captured in a negative light to be viewed by a global audience.

The General Board, General Conference Commission and Council of Bishops convened at the St. Louis Airport Marriott Hotel in Missouri on May 21-22, 2012. In attendance were active and retired bishops as well as General Officers, Connectional leaders and their spouses. Also present were representatives from the Episcopal Districts and many others who were not members of the Board but were interested in the Board’s activities and discussions (see page 161 of the 2008 AME Discipline to view the composition of the General Board).

Bishop T. Larry Kirkland, President of the General Board called the meeting to order on both meeting days, devotion was conducted by various clergy prior to tackling the items on each day’s agenda. While there were some tense moments and discussions at the General Board Meeting as the body considered the 2012-2016 General Budget Proposals, overall, individuals conducted themselves appropriately and respectfully. It is never easy to discuss finances particularly church finances, but the discussions are always necessary if the church deems itself to be an accountable entity that seeks to fulfill God’s mission.

The Commission on Statistics and Finance; Bishop Preston W. Williams II, Chair, introduced the idea of  a Zero-Based Budget and shared that this was the first time that such a budget type was introduced to the church body. The commission also shared that the proposal to utilize a Zero-Based Budget would also seek to reduce the Connectional budget by a certain percentage and still conduct the mission and business of the church.

Dr. Richard Allen Lewis, Sr., Treasurer/CFO detailed mandatory budget facts for consideration and also introduced in phases the recommendations necessary to meet the 2012-2016 AME Church Budgets. Some items discussed or recommended by the CFO included: The new bishops 403-B Program; Morris Brown College loan and other financial items; the AME Church Bicentennial; the elimination over a four year period of both the Contingency Strategic Impact Planning annual amount as well as the General Fund Contingency amount; the discussion that all bishops elected in 2000 and after would be required to retire on one half (1/2) salary and one half (1/2) travel.

Other items discussed by the CFO regarding the budget included the addition of one bishop’s widow (now that will perhaps increase to two with the death of Bishop H. Brookins); the addition of three retired General Officers as well as an increase in legal fees as well as a reduction of interest payments for the line of credit.

The AME Treasurer has additional information that will be clarified at the General Conference. Since we are operating as an entity that welcomes queries because of the church’s appearance of transparency, I believe that the church’s chief financial officer would be happy to provide the necessary response.

Interesting comments, questions and opinions as voiced by various individuals include the following “…cannot approve a concept paper without seeing numbers…the budget in The Discipline is radically revised by the concept paper…to approve as a budget is inappropriate because we have no numbers…Is Morris Brown accredited? Can we get an update on Morris Brown…Need to look on developing a budget that is based on the mission and objectives of the church…at every level there has been lay involvement…questions point to the need for a zero-based budget…ask that we carefully consider our words…when we produce a zero-based budget it will be based (that) everyone will start with zero-base and will have to justify…there will be accountability… a radical shift from what we have done in the past…maintain some enthusiasm, some fire….the book of Discipline does not specify a zero based budget or an incremental budget, you do a budget that reflects the mission of the church….the important thing to remember is to make sure that the budget is designed with the mission of the church…”

So, when we gather in Nashville, Tennessee and if by chance a stranger stops to inquire if there is a church convention taking place. The response will be “yes” we the participants of the convention gather to attend the 49th Quadrennial Session of the General Conference of the African Methodist Episcopal Church. 

As we face the next Quadrennial, at every level we should remind ourselves that our work, our lives, our ministries should reflect the mission of the AME Church. The Church that loves God, that embraces Jesus Christ, promotes equity among genders, takes care of the infants and elderly, and shows concern for the marginalized and the oppressed. The daily affirmation should be "it is not about 'me' but all about God!"

4. AME CHURCH ANNOUNCES FIRST LADY MICHELLE OBAMA AS KEYNOTE SPEAKER AT GENERAL CONFERENCE:

Mrs. Obama’s visit marks the first time a sitting First Lady has spoken to the Conference

The African Methodist Episcopal Church, the oldest Black religious denomination in America today announced First Lady Michelle Obama will deliver the keynote address at the 49^th Session of the General Conference on June 28, 2012 at the Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center in Nashville, Tennessee. President Barack Obama addressed the AME Conference in 2008 when he was a U.S. Senator.

Host Bishop of the Conference, Presiding Prelate Vashti Murphy McKenzie, stated, “We are extremely honored First Lady Michelle Obama will be sharing her thoughts at this quadrennial meeting.  Mrs. Obama’s commitment to family as the Mother-In- Chief is encouraging to women around the world and her leadership in fighting childhood obesity has been embraced by many of our congregations in the United States.”

Nashville is part of the 13^th Episcopal District, which comprises Tennessee and Kentucky.  The last time the 13^th District hosted the General Conference was in 1996 in Louisville, KY., and this year is the first time the conference has been held in Nashville since the late 1800s. The mission of the AME Church is to minister to the spiritual, intellectual, physical, emotional and environmental needs of all people by spreading Christ’s liberating gospel through word and deed.

Every four years the AME Church assembles for the General Conference when delegates and leaders from around the world are charged with the responsibility to discuss; debate and pass significant legislation that will impact the mission and ministry of this great Zion.

The African Methodist Episcopal Church has a membership of more than three million people worldwide with an even broader range of influence. There are approximately 7,500 churches throughout North and South America as well as Europe, Africa and India.  The Church has established and supports 12 higher education institutions, helping those with diverse backgrounds to obtain formal educational opportunities. The Church was founded in 1787 in Philadelphia, PA, and in 1816 the AME Church became an official religious denomination.

Bishop Gregory G.M. Ingram serves as chair of the General Conference Commission, Bishop John R. Bryant is Senior Bishop and Bishop David Daniels is president of the Council of Bishops.

Media interested in covering the First Lady’s remarks should contact Royya James at 615.554.2269 or Anica Howard (615.305.9985) to RSVP by Tuesday, June 26^th.  For information about the conference contact the Office of Bishop McKenzie (Linnie Davis at 615. 242-.6814.)

5. FORMER TENNESSEE STATE UNIVERSITY GOLF COACH CATANA STARKS TO SERVE AS FEATURED GUEST AT PLATINUM GOLF EXPERIENCE:

-- Believe Inc. Hosts Platinum Golf Tournament

Nashville, Tenn.  Former Tennessee State University golf coach Catana Starks will be the featured guest at the 2012 Platinum Golf Experience, which includes a Tee Table Toast reception on Monday, June 25 and the golf tournament on Tuesday, June 26, 2012 at the PGA Course Gaylord Springs Golf Links in Nashville.

Starks’ career as the first woman ever to coach an NCAA Golf Team at TSU inspired the upcoming film “From the Rough,” starring Oscar nominated Taraji P. Henson. The film chronicles Starks as the first female head coach of an NCAA Division I men’s golf team at TSU and focuses on her at the helm of the Tigers’ record-breaking performance at the PGA National Collegiate Minority Championship.

Starks has a strong and committed desire to provide opportunities for young people to earn an education. “There is a need for many organizations and others to get involved with securing funds necessary to assist young people to receive an education.  This Platinum Golf Tournament is a very worthy and important event for the AME Church,” said Starks.

Bishop Vashti McKenzie, Presiding Prelate of the 13^th Episcopal District, which includes Tennessee and Kentucky stated, “We are thrilled to have Dr. Catana Starks featured at our Platinum Golf experience.”  “Her years of work are extremely significant as an academic professor and golf coach.  She is an inspiration to us all and her appearance at the Platinum Golf experience will motivate and empower us in many ways,” said Bishop McKenzie.  Proceeds from the tournament provide funds for local churches to start or expand community service endeavors and scholarships to members studying theology.

The Platinum Golf experience will feature both a Tee Table Toast reception at the Gaylord Springs Golf Links Club House on Monday, June 25 at 6 p.m. and the Platinum Tournament beginning at 7 a.m. on Tuesday, June 26. The tournament is a pre-event of the 49^th Quadrennial Session of the General Conference of the AME Church.  The Platinum Golf Tournament competition completes the four-year series of annual golf events.

Golfers may register as a team of four or individuals will be assigned to a group. Golf-hole sponsorships are available to promote businesses or organizations.

“This year we will continue to have fun, fellowship and support a worthy cause as we welcome Dr. Starks to our golfing experience,” said Joe Turner, Chairman of the Believe Board and Chief Tournament Coordinator.  “Dr. Starks will inform the golfers about her many golfing achievements and enlighten the entire audience with her personal story.”

Tickets are available to the reception for observers and interested individuals who are not participating in the golf tournament. The cost is $20.00 for reception tickets.

Believe Inc., the philanthropic arm of the 13^th Episcopal District of the African Methodist Episcopal Church, provides support for small and rural churches in Tennessee and Kentucky. Proceeds from this year’s Platinum Golf event will continue the support of small and rural churches and scholarships for students studying Theology. Last year, the organization provided more than $200,000 to these endeavors.

Visit www.believeinc.org or contact Joe Turner at 615.957.5819 for more information on registration for the Platinum Golf Tournament or the Tee Table Toast reception.

**Submitted by Dr. Phyllis Qualls-Brooks

6. HAPPY BIRTHDAY, HAPPY BIRTHDAY, CONNECTIONAL LAY ORGANIZATION:

It is through great tenacity and courage our founding fathers and mothers pioneered and uncharted path of faith and vision which evolved into our great organization.  It took vision and goals to keep these God led people on task despite various vicissitudes of life.  Many obstacles were encountered as they forged ahead knowing that our Church would only benefit from an equal voice of laity in our ecclesiastical order of governance.

Today, our Church is stronger for having the official voice of the laity.  Since May 1912 the leadership and advocacy role has been vital in transforming and structuring the Church.  The financial officers of the Church have been laypersons for 100 years, helped to promote leadership of women, engaged in the legislative process of strengthening not only laity but clergy as well, and assisting in the global development of our Church.  We have indeed come this far by faith. 

It took 36 years to organize ourselves into the Connectional Organization with components at all level of the Church.  Today, it is mandated that a Lay Organization exist in all Local Churches. 

So our centennial year is one of celebration as we have overcome so many obstacles.  However, as we celebrate it is my hope and encouragement to take time to reflect, evaluate and think outside of the box for an even greater future.  Let us myopically focus on building on our global legacy of Christ centered leadership and training. 

Again, Happy Birthday!  May God continue to bless the African Methodist Episcopal Church and the Connectional Lay Organization.

Willie C. Glover, Ph.D.

President, the Connectional Lay Organization 

7. MCAM EXALTED CONCERT DATE CHANGE:

Due to circumstances beyond the control of MCAM, the concert will be Sunday, July 1, 2012 at 6:00 p.m.

Updated schedule and participants’ packet will be posted on the website as soon as possible. We APOLOGIZE for ANY INCONVENIENCE caused by this change and we hope that all we be able to make the adjustment to attend the concert on Sunday.

The Rev. Anthony B. Vinson Sr.

8. REGIONS BANK CONDUCTS CAREER COUNSELING AT GENERAL CONFERENCE:

Regions Bank will conduct Career Counseling at General Counseling in AME Mall.

Regions Bank, a corporate sponsor with the 49^th Quadrennial General Conference of the AME Church, will be actively recruiting during the conference in the AME Mall.
 
High-ranking human resources staff will be on site to review resumes, share interviewing tips and make recommendations.  Positions are available in the southeast and Midwest parts of the U.S. Resumes may be presented in presentation folders, on a disc or jump drive for review. 

Submitted by Dr. Phyllis Qualls-Brooks
 

9. FROM THE PERSONAL PEN OF…:

*Jerry Turner, Jr.

To My Fellow Delegate and leaders of the Church,

As we prepare to go to the General Conference in exactly one month, we have many things to do in preparation for the supreme meeting of African Methodism. From making our travel plans, informing our employers of our vacation plans, determining our clothing choices to yes even finalizing our personal budget, God willing, we will be singing as delegates -- "And are we yet alive to see each other face."

This is my 6th consecutive general conference as a delegate, however my 2nd as an adult delegate. I must say in my 20 years as a member of the general conference, I have seen the church at its worst, however at most times it has been at its everlasting best.

I come to this general conference with mixed emotions as we celebrate another four years of saving souls, feeding the hungry, clothing the naked and being the agents of positive change in our community. The good work and witness has been overshadowed with problems that plague our churches, from declining memberships that lead to financial breakdowns of churches, laity losing faith, clergy stress and burnout, making a choice between assessments or paying utility bills.

The economic downturn in our nation and internationally has impacted our churches to the point of bankruptcy and foreclosures, however, for every challenge God has still shined on our Zion, we have churches that have grown, new edifices built even in these times from one of the newest cathedral of African Methodism St. John AME, Aurora, Illinois ---- a 20 year old dream that came into a reality. Glory to God!

We have some hard decisions to make as delegates to the General Conference, but we have to be the change-agents.  We have a rich history that is before us and we have many people watching from the stair-steps of Heaven, and a generation that will come after us, depending on us to ask the questions, take a stand and yes, even stand alone.

In my life long ministry in African Methodism, I was taught to love God, love my church and love the people through servant leadership. I was baptized by The Rev. Lovell Johnson, Sr., my childhood pastor at St. Mark.

My father took me to my first General Conference at the age of three in 1976. 

My mother taught me in Sunday school. I started reading my father's copy of The Discipline on my own at the age of 13. Yvonne Henning Parks saw a leadership potential in me as my YPD director. I was 14-years old and the church allowed me to serve as a President of two Connectional organizations. Ted Harris that showed me the importance of loving my church and telling the truth. All of these people are watching me in person or at the feet of Jesus. So, it my responsibility to keep the legacy alive and to pass the touch of servant-leadership to the next generation.

In my professional life, I manage food stamp, childcare and medical programs for over 180,000 low income clients in Milwaukee County and throughout the State of Wisconsin. When I walk through the welfare building serving those who need help, I am grateful that my parents and the AME church taught me the importance of being a beacon of hope to those who need a word or just a touch that makes the difference.

So I ask you as fellow delegates and leaders of our Zion to join me to pray that the Lord will have His way and that we will be the voice of reason and change. We are a great church; we are a church that was born out of a need of equality and social conscience. We have had impacted many through uplifting Christ throughout the globe. Where do we go from here?

We cannot  take the road of status quo we must take the road of dealing with the church as a whole and charting a plan that will reclaim souls, build our churches, build hope among our laity--empower our pastors to preach the gospel and bring souls without fear of a budget and a size of a church.

So are you the one…

To elect those to the Episcopacy and General office that will guide and lead our church for the years to come.

Are you the one that will pass a finance plan that will be based on the mission of the church, a budget that will allow us to continue growth and support our connectional and local ministries, worldwide,  and also a budget process we can be proud to mirror in our Episcopal Districts, Annual Conferences, PE Districts and local churches?

Are you the one that will celebrate the Connectional leadership and Episcopacy honorably through a proper and realistic compensation plan at the connectional level and not assessed in the Episcopal Districts?

Are you the one that will support a true evangelistic movement of our local churches so they will continue to be relevant in the modern day through celebrating the rich tradition and through a modern method of tradition bring souls to Christ?

Are you the one that will stand alone for the sake of those who poured their knowledge and love of GOD and the church in each of us—a love that we must pass to future generations?

*Mr. Jerry Turner, Jr. is a member of St. Mark AME Church in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, is a delegate to the 49^th General Conference AME Church and is a Candidate for the General Board

10. THE YOUTH ON A RADICAL MOVE FOR CHRIST:

     

It seems that the youth at  Mount Zion AME Church in New York City under the pastoral leadership of the Rev. Jo -An L. Owings are spiritually maturing, responding to the call on their lives and are contaminating other youth to share in their innovative and radical move for Christ.

                                                       

On Good Friday, a High Holy Day, “Preachers Kids” between the ages of 5 to 25 years old, from as far as Western New York, Philadelphia and New York City came together and delivered the last seven words of Jesus.

“Father forgive them for they know not what they do” Vernell Hicks, St. Matthews AME Church

“Today you will be with me in Paradise”, Shaquan Taylor, St. Matthews AME Church

“Woman, behold your son! Behold your Mother, Shamari Woodward, Pilgrim Cathedral

“My God, My God, why have you Forsaken Me”, Alvez Hicks, St. Matthews AME Church

“I Thirst”, Richard Norris III, Morris Brown AME Church,

“It is Finished, Anthony Sydnor”, Mt. Zion AME Church

“Into your hands I Commit my Spirit,” Malcolm Sydnor Mt. Zion AME Church

                                                               

On Sunday, May 20, 2012 the Youth at Mount Zion AME Church celebrated Annual Youth Day. The worship experience was innovative, spiritually moving and encouraged the youth to embrace his/her purpose according to the will of God. The worship leader embraced the moving of the Holy Spirit, the liturgical dancers from Trinity AME Church danced to “I will” - the acceptance of God and the speaker of the hour was Jamell Henderson from Bridge Street AME Church emphasized the challenges that one will endure when receiving the blessing from God. Yet stay connected and allow Gold to lead the way.

   

The youth have moved from Membership to Discipleship.

                                                                       

Stacey C. Lawrence

Director of Public Relations

11. FIRST AME CHURCH OAKLAND CALIFORNIA WELCOMES THE INTERNATIONAL PRESIDENT OF THE WOMEN’S MISSIONARY SOCIETY, DR. SHIRLEY CASON-REED:

Dr. Shirley Cason-Reed, President of the International Women’s Missionary Society of the African Methodist Episcopal Church was welcomed and honored by the Melba B. Woods Missionary Society of First African Methodist Episcopal Church of Oakland, California. The Rev. Dr. Harold R. Mayberry, Senior Pastor and First Lady Mary Mayo Mayberry welcomed Mrs. Reed with an elegant reception on Saturday, April 28, 2012. 

On Sunday morning, April 29^th, at the 11 a.m. Missionary Worship Service, Dr. Reed blessed the missionaries and congregation with a provocative and soul-stirring message, using the theme “The Organic Missionary.”

Dr. Reed taught that we should strive to “Begin with good soil (John 3:15 and Mark 12:31); “Plant seeds rooted on the Word of God” (Luke 8:14-15 and 1 Corinthians 3:13); and “Always remember that God calls us to be the salt of the earth” (Matthew 5:12-14). As missionaries God is calling us to be different!

This was Dr. Reed’s first visit to worship in the Fifth Episcopal District and the California Annual Conference as the Connectional President of the WMS. 

During the Worship Service, Lady Mary Mayo Mayberry presented Dr. Reed with a gift for the Connectional Women’s Society on behalf of First AME Oakland.

Also, Dr. Reed conferred the Life Membership status on Sister Irma Douglas Lastra, President of the California Conference Women’s Missionary Society and a member of Melba B. Woods WMS.

Dr. Reed is an accomplished teacher, speaker and author of the Missionary Handbook entitled, "Missions in Action." She has served the Women’s Missionary Society of the AME Church for over 34 years as the Connectional Recording Secretary, Connectional Chair of Membership & Recruitment, Connectional Chair of Special Missions and President of local societies. 

She currently is a member of the Tullie Quinn Missionary Society of Ward AME Church in Washington, DC. 

In 2003 Dr. Reed was awarded Life Member Status.

In April 2008 under the hand of Bishop Adam Jefferson Richardson, Mrs. Reed was licensed as a Missionary of the Washington Annual Conference.

Dr. Reed was elected the eighth President of the International Women’s Missionary Society of the African Methodist Episcopal Church at the 2011 Quadrennial Convention of the WMS in Orlando Florida.

We thank and praise God for the wonderful blessings on the life of Dr. Shirley Cason- Reed.

Written by – Sheila Williams, Second Vice President Melba B. Woods WMS, First AME Oakland  

12. GREETINGS FELLOW LAYPERSONS:

* Willie Glover, Ph.D

It has been awhile since I updated you on my sojourns in carrying out the responsibilities of the office.  Life has been very busy with travels, Episcopal District elections, speaking engagements, General Church involvements and “honey do list”.

One of the highlights of this year was attending several centennial birthday parties.  At my home Church the celebration began by singing Stevie Wonder’s interpretation of “Happy Birthday”.  The entire congregation was invited and the President gave a warm welcome.  The Director of Lay Activities shared a slide presentation of the presidents of the organization and major changes in the evolution of the Lay Organization over the past 100 years.  Various members gave remarks mixed with humor and how the Lay Organization has helped them.  I also shared comments.  One of the points I bragged about was that Professor Johnson from Wilberforce, Ohio was elected the first president and now I have the privilege to serve 100 years later as president from Ohio.  The celebration ended with the singing of the traditional birthday song and we feasted on a centennial cake and other goodies.   I also attended the Arthur Dean Brown Lay Organization of Mt. Vernon Ave. AMEC and the Third Episcopal District celebrations. 

AME-India was a thrilling experience.  Twenty three persons from around the United States both laity and clergy traveled to Mamallapuram, India about 35 miles from Chennai in southern India.  The delegation was led by Senior Bishop John R. Bryant and his wife Rev. Cecelia Bryant, the WMS Fourth District Supervisor.  We were greeted at the Chennai airport by the two presiding elders and over 100 other AMEs at 4:00 a.m.  NOW THAT’S LOVE!  Perhaps, the most inspiring experience at the Annual Conference was hearing so many former Hindus confess their love and faith in our Lord and Savior, Jesus the Christ.  What a moving precious experience.  WOW!  Because they are now Christians at times are in danger and some had experienced violence in a nation not tolerance of Christianity.  The auditorium was filled to capacity and then some.  So many youth and young adults openly expressed their love and jubilance during worship.  The admiration and appreciation toward and from Bishop and Rev “C” were evident.  Fourth Episcopal District Lay President Madge White and I gave workshops and I had the honor of conducting the Conference elections and installing them.  I felt global!  By the way all offices were filled by men.  The weather and food were very hot but the Annual Conference was even hotter with the Holy Spirit.  We did have a day to tour Chennai.  Years ago we adopt a woman from Chennai and I was able to meet her sister and speak with her children.  Never in my wildest dreams but God is good.

Conducting the elections of Episcopal District officers enabled me to travel to several areas of the United States.  New Presidents include:

• Roger Cleckley, 7^th

• James Bonner, 9th Re-elected

• Dr. Dorothy Henderson, 12th

• Maylene Loncke, 16th

Upcoming elections include the following Episcopal Districts:  First, Third, Eleventh, Tenth and Fourth.

I am so appreciative for the many invitations to speak for Lay Witness services, banquets and other special occasions.  The highlight of my life was to speak at Mother Bethel during the Philadelphia Annual Conference for the Lay Organization.  I felt honored and thrilled to stand in the pulpit and speak from the podium Bishop Richard Allen had done.  History called out to me and I was overwhelmed.

Now our attention is turning to the 49th Session of the General Conference.  As we converge on Nashville, I encourage you to study and familiarize yourselves with the following:

• Proposed legislation

• Proposed budget

• Recommendations of the Episcopal Committee

• Elections of Bishops and General Officers

• Global Development Concerns

• The Lay Centennial Celebration and Breakfast

The Connectional Lay Organization will have daily briefing and you are encouraged to attend.  Our report and Centennial celebration is Thursday, June 28^th starting at 4 p.m. and all laypersons are asked to stand with me.  The Centennial breakfast featuring gospel music TV pioneer, Dr. Bobby Jones will be Sunday morning at 7 a.m., July 1st.   Let’s fill the ballroom.

Our Young Adult Representative will participate in a forum “Meet the Candidates”, please ask your young adults to attend.

See you in Nashville and may God bless our travels.

President Willie Glover

13. CHICK-FIL-A AND THE S. TRUETT CATHY FOUNDATION MAKE GENEROUS FINANCIAL GIFT TO MORRIS BROWN COLLEGE AND TO THE SIXTH EPISCOPAL DISTRICT:

The S. Truett Cathy Foundation, along with Chick-fil-a, donated $500,000 to Morris Brown College and $500,000 to the Sixth Episcopal District of the African Methodist Episcopal Church.  Both gifts were awarded in honor of the leadership and legacy of Bishop William P. DeVeaux. 

On June 1, 2012, Mr. Rodney Bullard who serves as the Executive Director of the S. Truett Cathy Foundation spoke in highest regards about Bishop William P. DeVeaux as he presented the gifts to Bishop William P. DeVeaux, the Sixth Episcopal District, and Morris Brown College.  All funds have been distributed in honor and recognition of the elite, eight years of service Bishop DeVeaux has offered to Morris Brown, the Sixth Episcopal District, and the A.M.E. Church of Georgia.

Submitted by the Rev. Conitras M. Houston Moore, Administrative Assistant to Bishop William P. & Dr. Pam DeVeaux, Sixth Episcopal District of the A.M.E. Church

Editor’s Note: We all need to patronize Chick-fil-a in the spirit of patronizing those who help us. We should also note and support the corporate sponsors of the 49^th Quadrennial Session of the General Conference.

14. TIPS FOR SAFE TRAVEL & REMAINING HEALTHY & SAFE AT GENERAL CONFERENCE:

*Exhorter Gwendolyn B. Williams

It is the wish of the Connectional Health Commission that this General Conference will begin and end with healthy participants. This can be accomplished if we observe the following suggestions.

Travel by air:

Wear loose comfortable clothing and shoes, you tend to accumulate gas during the flight due to atmospheric changes and fluid in the legs and feet due to having your legs bent and feet down.

If you need extra time going down the jet way ask to preboard or for assistance.

If you will need Oxygen on the flight, check with the airline about its policy.

Depending on the length of the flight, remember to carry a meal or unsalted snack especially if you are a diabetic.

Regularly change leg posit and periodically move and stretch your legs and feet while seated, depending on the length of the flight and if conditions allow , get up and walk in the aisle.

Avoid grossing legs at knees and ankles as it impedes circulation.

Drink adequate fluids such as milk, juice, and water. Reduce intake of caffeinated and alcoholic beverages as they are dehydrating.

Follow TSA Rules to avoid being detained. If traveling with small children and babies, remember they, their toys and diaper bags will be screened. Use the family line, formula and jars of baby food are permitted but will be screened.

If you must carry sharp items or guns with written permission, place them in your checked baggage. No flammables, or aerosol cans are permitted. Check airline policy. Do not accept packages from strangers and do not leave your bags unattended.

Bus or train Most of the above rules apply. You will also undergo screening.

Automobile Most of the above apply. Get out of the car every 3-4 hours and walk around the vehicle, or when you stop for gas or to use the facilities, walk around the vehicle. Have a small first aid kit, blanket, drinking water and a flashlight on the backseat. A gasoline can in the trunk and be sure the jack works and the spare tire is inflated.

Hotel and Street Safety

Do not leave your belonging unattended; leave them at the bell stand, while in line.

Do not open your door to strangers, ask for ID if they claim to be hotel staff or call the front desk to verify that the person is hotel staff.

Place your valuables in the hotel safe.

Be sure your door closes completely when you leave the room and put the security lock on at bedtime.

Read the emergency instruction on the door and locate exactly where your room is in relation to the stairs.

Do not go out alone, especially at night. Go as a group, avoid dark streets and so called short cuts.

Keep your purse close to your body. Carry only what you can afford to lose.  Keep your wallet in a safe place. Try to avoid extremely crowded places where it is easy to bump into you.

Avoid wearing a lot of jewelry or bling.

Personal pointers

Always have a travel partner, or let someone know where you are going, if you must leave the meeting or your hotel room.

Keep a list of all of your emergency contacts, physicians, and medications in your purse.

Complete the emergency information form in your kit and return it to the first aid station.

I f you are receiving Dialysis, please have your physician make arrangements for you to continue treatment at a local Dialysis Clinic. If you are on Peritoneal Dialysis, bring all of your equipment. If you need to do a treatment, come to the first aid station if you don’t desire to go to your room.

If you are on Respiratory care requiring oxygen, check with your physician on how to secure a tank or replace a tank. If you are flying check airline policy on oxygen on flights. Bring your nebulizers and inhalers with you, keep your inhaler in your purse or pocket.

Bring all of your diabetic supplies and snacks. Follow your routine for care. Bring a glucagon pen in case of an emergency. If you take insulin on a sliding scale feel free to keep your insulin in the fridge in the first aid room. Bring your glucometer and monitor your blood levels at least twice a day or more frequent if you take your insulin on a sliding scale.

If you feel cold, sweaty or jittery, have someone take you to the first aid room or send someone to get help for you. If you are flying or on a bus or train summon help.

If flying use the line for people with medical equipment and let TSA personal know you have diabetic supplies and liquid snacks like Jell-O or orange juice.

If you have severe allergies to certain food or substances, bring your emergency medications.

Drink lots of water, air conditioning tends to dehydrate you.

Bring a warm wrap or jacket as meeting rooms are kept at low temperatures. Wear comfortable clothing and shoes.

*Exhorter Gwendolyn B. Williams is the Executive Director, AMEC Connectional Health Commission

15. AN OPEN STATEMENT OF APPRECIATION FROM RETIRED BISHOP FREDERICK C. JAMES:

Dearly beloved,

As I recover from my February 2012 surprise encounter of serious surgery, and from my 17-day hospital experience, I not only discovered new dimensions of the love and grace of God, I also discovered new depths and heights of appreciation of friends like all of you, whose loving kindness penetrated the inner circle of those who cared most about me and my condition. All praise be to God, and great thanks also to you.

On Saturday, April 7, 2012 at 1:00 p.m. I lifted 90 praises to God for 90 birthdays of life on this Earth as I stood behind the antique pulpit of Shiloh African Methodist Episcopal Church in Prosperity, South Carolina; the church into which I was first born and was born-again at the earthly age of 12.

Thanks for every friendship, kindness, and blessing of the last 90 years!

Thanks again to God and to all of you who shared in every and any way in my 90^th birthday celebration.

Let us all proceed "forward in faith" with all glory given to God.

16. THE FISK JUBILEE SINGERS TO PERFORM AT THE AFRICAN METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH GENERAL CONFERENCE

The Group Performs concert at Believe Banquet

The internationally famous Fisk University Jubilee Singers will highlight the 49^th Quadrennial Session of the African Methodist Episcopal Church General Conference. The ensemble will perform at the Believe Banquet, Tuesday, June 26^, 2012, at 7 pm in the Gaylord Opryland Resort and Convention Center’s Delta Ballroom. The conference officially begins Wednesday, June 27, with an opening worship service that the public is invited to attend.  The Fisk Jubilee Singers and the 13^th Episcopal Choir will perform at that service.

       

The eight-day General Conference, held June 27-July 4, will bring together African Methodists from around the world to discuss; debate and pass significant legislation that will impact the mission of the AME Church. Representatives of the three million members of the 7, 500 AME churches worldwide will come together for this event.

Founded in 1871, the Fisk Jubilee Singers’ efforts to sustain Fisk through proceeds from their initial tours resulted in the construction of Jubilee Hall in 1876, the first permanent structure erected in the South for the purpose of educating African Americans.

The Fisk Jubilee Singers, known as one of the world’s premier a cappella ensembles, are the carriers of a unique cultural legacy based on the Negro spiritual. “It has been extremely important to me to for the Fisk Jubilee Singers to perform at the General Conference. I want to showcase Nashville’s finest at this historic and glorious event,” said Bishop Vashti Murphy McKenzie, presiding prelate of the 13^th Episcopal District and Host Bishop of the Conference.

Most recently, the Fisk Jubilee Singers earned the National Medal of Arts (2008), America’s highest award for artists and arts patrons, as well as a Grammy Award nomination in 2009 for “Best Gospel Performance.”

“I am very grateful to the African Methodist Episcopal Church for inviting the Fisk University Jubilee Singers® to perform at this worldwide conference. It is an honor for the ensemble to represent Fisk University and the city of Nashville by sharing the culture of this wonderful city with people from all over the world. Some of our students have personal ties to this denomination and it will bring a great sense of pride for the entire organization, Fisk University and the City of Nashville,” said Paul Kwami, musical director of the Fisk Jubilee Singers.

The Believe Banquet is a stellar affair. Produced by the office of the host bishop, this event will exude sincere and warm hospitality in welcoming all the attendees to the conference.  The Rev. Dr. Kenneth Robinson and his wife the Rev. Marilynn Robinson, serve as co-chairs, and as co-pastors of St. Andrew AME Church in Memphis. “We are excited to open the General Conference with this premier event.  Our committee has been diligently preparing for this inspiring evening and we want attendees to experience an uplifting, energizing, and welcoming festive affair,” said the Robinsons.

The Fisk Jubilee Singers are known throughout the world for their history and music, and the thousands of attendees to this conference can expect to be in awe of the student performers.  “People from throughout the world will come to Nashville to experience the flavor of this great city, and the Fisk Jubilee Singers are a true example of that, said Bishop McKenzie.

For more information on the AME Church General Conference and the Believe Banquet, contact the Office of Bishop Vashti McKenzie at 615.242.6814 or go online to www.13ththame.com

17. SEEKING VOLUNTEERS FOR THE 2012 GENERAL CONFERENCE PRAYER TEAM:

Bishop Sarah F. Davis, Presiding Prelate of the 16^th Episcopal District GC Prayer Team; the Reverend Dorisalene Hughes, Director

The newly formed AME General Conference (GC) 2012 General Conference Prayer Team, under the leadership of Bishop Sarah F. Davis, Presiding Prelate of the 16^th Episcopal District has been meeting since February 2011 via teleconference to design a structured program for the Prayer Team during the 49^th Quadrennial Session of the General Conference. 

A collaborative partnership of the 2012 GC Prayer Team with the GC Conference Host Prayer Team lead by Bishop Vashti McKenzie Presiding Prelate of the 13^th Episcopal District has confirmed over 100 volunteers to serve during the coming 49^th Quadrennial Session of the General Conference.

2012 GC Prayer Team assignments are still being confirmed!  Episcopal Districts are encouraged to chose a designated day(s) and time during the GC to serve as Prayer gatekeepers and watchpersons during the GC Business sessions and to identify experienced flag waver ushers in the presence of God in worship through the flag ministry; serve in the Early Morning Prayer Room(s); venture into the community of Nashville for a Prayer Walk; or partake with the Evangelistic Outreach Activity lead by Dr. James Wade and the Rev. Dorisalene Hughes. 

Please feel free to email 2012 GC Prayer Team Director, the Rev. Dorisalene Hughes at dorisalene@aol.com the day and time of day you wish to participate in any of the 2012 GC Prayer Team activities.

Link with us!  Pray with us! We are praying and pleading the blood of Jesus over our bishops, general officers and laity.

It's in the Name of Jesus that we stake all claims for God's will to be done throughout the 49^th Quadrennial Session of the General Conference.

Expect to witness miracles, signs and wonders as the glory of God abides!

The Reverend Dorisalene Hughes, 2012 General Conference Director of Prayer, dorisalene@aol.com 

http://www.ame-church.com/news-and-events/general-conference/TCR-Newsbreak_Prayer_2.pdf

*Posted per request of The Reverend Dorisalene Hughes, 2012 GC Prayer Team; Bishop Sarah F. Davis, Presiding Prelate, 16^th Episcopal District

**Submitted to TCR by Mrs. Ora L. Easley, Administrator, The Clergy Family Information Center

18. TO GOD BE THE GLORY - APPRECIATING THE AME CHURCH FAMILY:

*Reuben S. Dlamini, Ph.D

Giving thanks to God the Father, Who has qualified and made me fit to share the portion which is the inheritance of the saints in the Light -- Colossians 1: 12

In 1999 I was only a 19-year-old young man when I left the Kingdom of Swaziland to pursue my undergraduate education in Computer Science and Mathematics at Wilberforce University, Ohio. About 13 years later I returned home armed with a Doctor of Philosophy degree in Information and Instructional Technology Ph.D at Ohio University in Athens, with extensive professional and personal experience. Most importantly I return home a fully grown man who is, first and foremost a child of God; the son of the African Methodist Episcopal Church; a leader in the making and a global citizen. The journey has been long through the storm, valleys and mountains, but God surely carried me through.

I am writing to humbly express my appreciation to the AME Church, my family and my friends for your selfless investment to see me graduate with the highest degree in academia.

Throughout my time in the USA I was mentored, loved, mothered and introduced to role models who had the greatest deal of patience and wisdom while cheering me on through the journey. My church home, United AME Church under the leadership of the Reverend A.W. Sinkfield showed an unwavering confidence in my personal and academic success. United AME Church continued to inspire me under the leadership of the Reverend A. Allen. I miss those inspiring conversations I had with my United AME Church family.

The Rev. Allen; your kaleidoscopic view on life helped me grow as a young man and be the best brother that I can be. To retired bishop, the Right Rev. Henry Berlin, Jr.; and retired Wilberforce University President Dr. John Henderson, thank you for opening the doors to matriculate at “Dear Old WU.”

To all those who facilitated the process to get me in WU and out of the WU; thank you for all your hard work and your unyielding commitment to the young, black and talented’ women and men.

Your commitment is evident by the number of students you graduate every year, who go on and make a difference in the world. I am aware of your many commitments, but you made yourselves available to me. I am extremely indebted to Dr. Emeka Morah, Mrs. Hughes, Mrs. Lash, the Rev. Richard Williams, Sister Ross Stewart of Washington DC; Dr. Edward Asikele, Prof. Stewart, Mrs Hila Williams, Ms. Preston, Kenneth Christmon, the Financial Aid Office, the Computer Services Staff, the Physical Plant Staff, and my Brothers in Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Incorporated. All of you gave me a chance to develop my leadership skills and work ethic.

To Bishop DeVeaux, Mother Pam, and Family and the Orlando and Learnora Brown Family of Yellow-Springs, Ohio; thank you for sharing your blessings and investing selflessly in my personal, professional and academic journey.

Mother Pam you are my heroine, thank you for believing in me and supporting me throughout my stay in the USA.

To Bishop McKenzie & Bishop Davis; thank you for continuing to support me. I must say the experience would not have been the same without you. Even after 13 years I still get the feeling of amazement and sheer wonder on how I could have done it without you. I am privileged to have had you as fellow travelers on the journey. You have been crucial fellow travelers and now I look back over my life with fond memories on our conversations throughout the journey. I have learned to pay more attention to all cultural aspects in the socio-economic-political dimensions, thus have become a global citizen of note. Now as a fully grown man, I do not have to worry about any cumbersome practicalities of life because of your insight and coaching throughout the journey. Even though I have not always been able to reciprocate your expressions of love and appreciation, I want you to know that I am very grateful. I am pressing on towards the mark for the higher calling of God as it is evident that God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose and His holy will -  (Philippians 3:14 & Romans 8:28).

*Reuben S. Dlamini, Ph.D., Mpelave AME Church, Swaziland, 18^th Episcopal District

19. THE PERSISTENCE OF ERROR IN THE WILBERFORCE STORY:

Jamye Coleman Williams and McDonald Williams

From the presidency of Daniel Alexander Payne in 1863 to that of Patricia Lofton Hardaway in 2012, the story of Wilberforce University has been an intriguing one of:  history, legend, half truths, and inaccuracies.  For the most part those who have written about Wilberforce University interpreted the sources as they understood them.  The inaccuracies, however, are a result, for the most part, of those who would contend that the founding of Central State University as a free-standing, degree-granting institution was in the year 1887 rather than in 1947.

We write now because we are deeply concerned about the persistence of this error about when Central State University was actually established. Richard D. Altick, in The Art of Literary Research, discusses the persistence of error in the chapter “The Spirit of Scholarship.” He maintains that if an assumption goes unchallenged for a long period it becomes as impregnable as an old-fashioned gospel truth.  In fact, he suggests that once an error is set adrift, it swells and proliferates and the more persuasive it becomes--so much so that it becomes increasingly difficult to discredit.

We are the two surviving members of the Wilberforce University faculty who served prior to and after the dismissal of President Charles H. Wesley in June, 1947, which is familiarly referred to as “The Split.”  In reaction, Wesley set up the College of Education and Industrial Arts as a separate institution.  This College was the outgrowth of the Combined Normal and Industrial Department (CNI) established by the State of Ohio at Wilberforce University in 1887 as one of the divisions at the University.  Thirty-one years after the founding of the University by the Methodist Episcopal Church and twenty-four years after its purchase in 1863 by Daniel Alexander Payne for the African Methodist Episcopal Church, President Samuel T. Mitchell, who was facing a severe financial crisis, requested aid from the State of Ohio.  The response came on March 19, 1887, when the Ohio Legislature passed the Act to help Wilberforce by establishing the Combined Normal and Industrial Department.  The sponsors of the Bill, which created the Act and the legislative representatives who passed it, had as their primary aim to help a worthy institution carry out its objective. Under this unusual arrangement between the University and the State, Wilberforce University was the degree-granting entity for both its College of Liberal Arts and the State’s CN&I Department.  On May 13, 1941, by an Act of the General Assembly of the State of Ohio, the CN&I Department was renamed the College of Education and Industrial Arts at Wilberforce University.  Every student who was graduated from its founding until 1947 was awarded a degree from “Wilberforce University.”  That being the case, the error persists that Central State University is 125 years old.

Realizing the significance of the name “Wilberforce” in black higher education, administrators of the College of Education and Industrial Arts—following “The Split” in 1947—appropriated the name “Wilberforce” by referring to itself as “Wilberforce State College.”  Thereafter, beginning in June, 1947, John Andrew Gregg, et.al., on behalf of Wilberforce University, filed suit against Charles H. Wesley, defendant, in Common Pleas Court, Greene County, Ohio,  charging that following his dismissal as President there had been general confusion as to his continuing relationship with Wilberforce University, to the status of the College of Education and Industrial Arts, and to the use of the name “Wilberforce” in describing this state-owned/operated institution.  Following the original suit there were restraining orders, summons, motions, petitions, answers, entries, applications, affidavits.       

The Court did rule on January 6, 1948, as follows:

….It Is Therefore Ordered, Adjudged and Decreed that the defendant be, and they hereby are, restrained and enjoined from emphasizing, capitalizing and printing in large letters the word “Wilberforce” in connection with any activities of their college, which is that of “College of Education and Industrial Arts at Wilberforce, Greene County, Ohio”; that they be enjoined and restrained from using the name “Wilberforce State College,” and that in connection with the use of their name, to-wit:--“College of Education and Industrial Arts at Wilberforce, Greene County, Ohio,” they add in reasonably bold type immediately there under, the following  phrase;--“(not connected with Wilberforce University)”; to all of which defendants except (sic).

Despite this ruling, however, as late as June, 1949, their official degree read “College of Education and Industrial Arts,” beneath which were the words “Wilberforce State College” (q.v.).  Realizing that this continued use violated the legacy and prestige of the name “Wilberforce” and endangered the life of the University itself, Wilberforce University again appealed to the courts.  It received a favorable ruling in October, 1950 (picture, q.v.).  Their argument for the use of the name “Wilberforce” was based upon their false assumption that the Wilberforce community had given its name to the University. Evidence introduced proved otherwise: Wilberforce University had given its name to the community.  Thereafter, in 1951, the College of Education became known as Central State College, with it reaching “University” status in 1965.

That the accurate relationship between Wilberforce University and Central State University is still being misrepresented is reflected in Central State’s own account of its history:

- The Ohio General Assembly in an act that created a Combined Normal and Industrial Department at Wilberforce University established Central State University on March 19, 1887.

- The older institution was founded by the African Methodist Episcopal Church in 1856 and named in honor of the great abolitionist William Wilberforce.

- In 1947, the College began independent operations continuing its programs in teacher education, industrial arts, and business, and adding a four-year liberal arts college under the name Wilberforce State College.

- It has a 125 year legacy of academic achievement and the development of students….

It should be noted that there is an inaccuracy concerning the founding of Wilberforce University.  It was not “…founded by the African Methodist Episcopal Church in 1856 and named in honor of the great abolitionist William Wilberforce.”  The facts are that in 1856 the Cincinnati Conference of the Methodist Episcopal Church founded Wilberforce University (known first as the Ohio African University) for the purpose of educating people of color.  The first students were the natural children of Southern and Southwestern slaveholders and others from the free states.  With the outbreak of the Civil War the institution was faced with dwindling resources and reduced enrollment. The Methodist Church as a result closed Wilberforce, and on March 10, 1863, Bishop Daniel A. Payne, a member of the original Board of Trustees, bought Wilberforce University on faith for the African Methodist Episcopal Church for the sum of $10,000.

In June, 2012, sixty-five years will have passed since the State of Ohio set up this separate institution at Wilberforce, where for sixty years (1887-1947) the State of Ohio had been a partner in the education of black young people.  Prior to this schism several unsuccessful attempts had been made to separate the State department from Wilberforce University, in whose name all degrees were granted.  Bearing in mind that the State initially came into the picture to lend aid to a struggling institution committed to educating a people just out of slavery, it is indeed tragic that so noble an ideal was compromised by politics, both secular and church.

We point to Wilberforce University’s rich history for African Americans.  It is the nation’s oldest private, coeducational, historically black college.  It was a station on the Underground Railroad to help those who would be free.  It was the first institution to have a black college president, the first to have an ROTC unit, the first to have a charter from the YWCA.  It was with this history in mind, we believe, that Governor Frank J. Lausche, in 1951, vetoed the bill—later overridden by the legislature—which gave the name “Central State College” to the institution and granted it the right to award the B.A. degree.  Governor Lausche explained his veto by saying:

“The State of Ohio went to Wilberforce University (in 1887) not as rival and competitor but as friend with the purpose of cooperating through mutual agreement. It was never intended that the State of Ohio should become a competitor of Wilberforce University.  It was the purpose of the state not to harm Wilberforce in its operation as a private institution….The result of this bill would be to definitely create a situation of competition which, in the end, may bring destruction of the life of Wilberforce University….It is further my belief that if the bill becomes law, the state will find itself confronted with the charge that it is operating a segregated school.”

To its credit the following accurate statement is made on Central State University’s website:  “Historian Dr. Charles H. Wesley, the first president of Central State University, chose to name the first library for Miss Hallie Q. Brown.”

Editor’s Note: The footnotes of this article were lost in the formatting. When the article appears on the print edition, the footnote will accompany the article.

20. THE STAR OF THE NEW TELEVISION SITCOM THE SOUL MAN, GIVES GREETINGS TO THE AME CHURCH:

A new television sitcom, THE SOUL MAN starring Cedric The Entertainer will begin on Wednesday June 20, 2012 and the video-trailer of the new show is appended below.  In the video-trailer, Cedric The Entertainer gives a greeting to the leadership and members of the African Methodist Episcopal Church. 

Below are 2 versions of the SOUL MAN greeting and sitcom trailer. The first is an easy-to-view “quick view” and the second one is a high-resolution version for church downloads if a church wanted to share it in a larger setting.

The sitcom looks to be an entertaining family show.  Check your cable listing for TV Land channel in your area [www.tvland.com/]

QUICK VIEW

Personalized AME Church Greeting

http://vimeopro.com/cookepictures/the-soul-man-african-methodist

21. ST JOHN'S ANNUAL WOMEN'S MISSIONARY SOCIETY (WMS) DAY, CLEVELAND, OHIO:

On Sunday, June 3, 2012, Dr. Shirley Cason Reed, Connectional President of the Women’s Missionary Society of the African Methodist Episcopal Church will be the guest speaker for the St. John African Methodist Episcopal Church, 2261 East 40th Street, Cleveland, Ohio’s Annual Women’s Missionary Society Day. Hosting this service is the Winn-Manuel Society of St. John AME Church where the Rev. Dr. Taylor T. Thompson is the pastor. The Winn-Manuel Society culminates the year of mission work both at home and abroad. The Society participates with volunteers for the Central Reads Summer reading program at St. John, the Greater Cleveland Homeless Stand-down ministry with blanket distributions, Sunday Community breakfasts at St. John, Community Dinners on Thanksgiving and New Year’s Day at St. John; Super Bowl Sunday Dinner at a local homeless shelter, A Clothes Closet Ministry with free clothes distribution, served dinners to the families of hospitalized children at the Ronald McDonald House of Cleveland and supported two of our members as they took supplies to the Sixteenth Episcopal District to Guyana and spent about four weeks there ministering.

On July 30, 2011 Shirley Cason Reed became the 9th President to serve the Connectional Women's Missionary Society of the African Methodist Episcopal Church. Mrs. Reed is a native of Virginia Beach, Virginia.  She is the youngest of twelve children born to the late George and Sarah Cason. She is married to Reverend Dr. Rodger Hall Reed, Sr., and the mother of six and grandmother of eleven. Mrs. Reed is an honor graduate of Madison University. In 2010, she received an honorary doctorate degree from AME University (Monrovia, Liberia), under the recommendation of its president and faculty.

Mrs. Reed is the recipient of many Awards and Citations for her outstanding leadership and service to humankind. She currently serves as a Delegate to the General Assembly National Council of the Churches of Christ in the USA, a member of the Board of Directors for Church World Service; serves on the Board of Directors of the National Council of Negro Women, a voting member of the Common Council of the Church Women United, and is also a member of the World Federation of Methodist and Uniting Women. Mrs. Reed also serves as the Commissioner of the Debutantes and Master Program for the Second Episcopal District of the African Methodist Church.

Mrs. Reed is the author of a Missionary Handbook entitles, "Missions in Action". She has served the Women’s Missionary of the A. M. E. Church for over 34 years; serving as Connectional Recording Secretary, Connectional Chair of Membership & Recruitment, Connectional Chair of Special Missions and President of local societies. She formerly served as the First Vice President of the Washington Conference WMS and is a member of the Tullie Quinn Missionary Society of Ward A.M.E. Church in Washington, DC.  In 2003 Dr. Reed was awarded Life Member Status.  In April of 2008 under the hand of Bishop Adam Jefferson Richardson, Mrs. Reed was licensed as a Missionary of the Washington Annual Conference.

Her calling in life is that of a Missionary; to spread the Gospel of Jesus Christ; to serve and to reach out to the poor, the hungry, the destitute, the brokenhearted, the disenfranchised, addicts, prisoners, the homeless and those that are in dire need of spiritual, physical and economic help.

We invite you to come and share the day with us at St. John AME Cleveland, Ohio. We know the Holy Spirit will bless as we celebrate our missionary calling through the anointed Word our connectional president, Dr. Shirley Cason Reed will share with us.

For more information, call St. John AME Cleveland, Ohio at 216-431-2560, The Rev. Dr. Taylor T. Thompson, pastor

22. POSITION OPENING AT SHORTER COLLEGE, NORTH LITTLE ROCK, ARKANSAS:

Position: President to serve as the Chief Executive Officer of a two-year coeducational Christian College located in North Little Rock, Arkansas.

Minimum Academic Qualifications:  Masters degree in higher education preferred, or the equivalent, with administrative experience in working with students and staff in an educational setting.  A professional business background, and/or law background with the necessary qualifications may also be considered.

The president shall be responsible to the Shorter College Board of Trustees for exercising supervisory and administrative authority relative to the overall operation of the college to include, but not limited to, academic programs, financial matters, students, student activity programs and services, other activities and services of the college; administrative authority over administrative employees, deans, staff personnel, departments and programs, and heads of all programs and departments.

The closing dat for the presidential search closing date will be June 30, 2012. 

Persons applying for the position must send a resume and letter of interest to:

       

Bishop Samuel L. Green, Chair

Shorter College Board of Trustees

604 Locust Street

North Little Rock, AR 72114

Further information from the applicant may be requested as the application process progresses.

**Submitted by Bishop Samuel L. Green, Chair, Shorter College Board of Trustees and the Presiding Prelate of the 12^th Episcopal District

23. CONTINUING EXCELLENCE IN THE SERVICE OF OUR LORD:

Robes of Faith: A Quarter of a Century

As we enter our 25^th year of service, it has become clear that Robes of Faith - founded by Henri L. White and Faith Danielle White - is not just a business, but a social enterprise. We have gained strength through social responsibility in recognizing the spiritual needs of our clients, staff and Christian community at large.  Robes of Faith has become a place of employment and training.  Our products have enlightened our consumer base through creative, inclusive and informative church facts as incorporated into the fabric designs of the Danielle Heritage collection. We present our connectional departments with appropriate and unique colors and insignia. We collectively give our tithes and offerings in the manner selected by our church leadership.

Order my steps

We give thanks to the thousands of AME members and clergy who have patronized Robes of Faith. As we look back over these many years, we lift our voices to sing “Order My Steps” and see the steps that God had outlined for us. Our class leader, Gloria Byrd, led us to the late Dr. Joseph C. McKinney, the President of the General Officer’s Council. He looked for verification of our ecclesiastical worthiness from our pastor, the Rev. Dr. George Moore, and then introduced us to Bishop John Adams, who opened the doors of the AME Church to our talents.

For I may never pass this way again

That was the beginning of our journey within the AME Church and our social enterprise. Scripture reminds us “Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, where thieves break through and steal.” (Luke 6:19)

Knowing that what we do is for others remains our operating philosophy.

Through the years, and because of you - our clientele, we have been able to be of service to those in need. The Robes of Faith Foundation has given dictionaries and scholarships to graduates; financially supported the WMS Foundation, The Sojourner Program, and Allen University. For AMEC Districts 14 to 20, we have contributed both financially and through international support of in-kind products and raw materials to start businesses, make clothing and enhance home décor. Additionally, other AMEC districts have been helped through funds from our product line sales.

We have made local and regional contributions through Rotary Club International, food banks, Crisis Ministries, Make –A- Wish Foundation, and Water Missions and other charities. Donating our services as a workshop leader, business consultant and motivational speaker is another dimension of our service delivery. 

To God be the glory

Where have our steps taken us?

The late Bishop Richard Allen Chappelle, as President of the Council, asked us to design a “Unity Robe” for the Bishops of the AME Church to present in competition for selection. We were delighted that our design was chosen. The late Dr. Joseph McKinney requested on their behalf if Robes of Faith would design a unique robe for the General Officers.  We did, and they were pleased.  Subsequently, the late Presiding Elder Charles Martin, President of the Presiding Elders Council, subsequently, presented us with a challenge to create a robe that would distinguish them from other clergy. We offered several options and council members selected the color of navy-blue, with a modified AME design. From that, many clergy, churches and districts sought our skills to create products just for them. It has been our pleasure and privilege to do so. 

I will give thanks unto thee

The late Henri L. White and I met in unusual circumstances. It was preordained that our joint experience confirm the establishment of this social enterprise, ironically called, Robes of Faith, Inc.

Our future is in God’s hands. The words penned by Ira F. Stanfill say it best:

“We don’t know about tomorrow,

We just live from day to day

We don’t borrow from its sunshine,

For its skies may turn to gray

We don’t worry o’er the future

For we know what Jesus said,

And today we’ll walk beside him,

For He knows shat is ahead.”  (Ira F. Stanfill)

We will fulfill the precept of our motto, continuing excellence in the service of our Lord.

Faith Danielle White

www.robesoffaith.com

24. TRINITY AME CHURCH GONZALES LOUISIANA BEGINS WORSHIP SERVICE IN NEWLY RENOVATED FACILITY:

Trinity African Methodist Episcopal Church in Gonzales, Louisiana will begin church services at the newly renovated Howard Johnson Post 557 American Legion Hall on Sunday, June 3, 2012.  The new work was established by Bishop Carolyn Tyler Guidry, presiding prelate of the 8th Episcopal District of the AME Church.  Trinity AME joins St. Luke AME in Donaldsonville as the only AME Churches in Ascension Parish.  When the Reverend Orin J. Blouin and new congregation gathers at the Howard Johnson Post 557 American Legion Hall at 8:00 AM on June 3, 2012, it will be reminiscent of the founding church led by Bishop Richard Allen who established the AME Church in a blacksmith shop in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania in 1787. 

The Mission of the African Methodist Episcopal Church is to minister to the spiritual, intellectual, physical, emotional, and environmental needs of all people by spreading Christ's liberating gospel through word and deed. At every level of the Connection and in every local church, the African Methodist Episcopal Church shall engage in carrying out the spirit of the original Free African Society, out of which the AME Church evolved: that is, to seek out and save the lost, and serve the needy.

http://www.ame-church.com/index.php

Submitted by Sister Vickie R. Smith

25. MEDITATION BASED ON JOHN 10:1-10:

*The Rev. Dr. Joseph A. Darby

When I worked part-time in a printing shop during my college years, one of my co-workers who loved to hang out and party came to work late one Friday...red-eyed, haggard and obviously “hung over” from too much to drink.  He moved slowly and carefully, moaned and groaned in anguish with every step he took; popped aspirin to combat a raging headache and cursed a blue streak when his thumb twice got caught and mashed in a printing press.  He ate a few very careful bites at lunchtime, got pale, ran to the bathroom, staggered back, fell into his chair and put his head down on the table.

When our boss asked him what was wrong, he looked up and said, “I went to ‘Happy Hour’ at my favorite club when I got off yesterday.”  All of us except my hung over co-worker had a major laugh when the boss paused as if he was thinking hard and then said, “Why do they call it ‘HAPPY’ hour if you’re in such bad shape today?”

If we’re honest - and even if we’ve never had a “hangover” - we can all identify with my former co-worker’s behavior.  The routine demands of everyday life bring us all our share of tension, stress, aggravation and pressure, and we long for and sometimes seek relief and relaxation by any means necessary.  It’s easy for all of us to hurt ourselves and get caught up in sticky situations running after what we think we need to find joy in this world.

We’d do well to realize that the joy we pursue in this world can sometimes be elusive and disappointing.  That’s why it’s good to know Jesus.  When we trust in the Savior who came into this world not to condemn us but who instead said, “I am come that you might have life, and have it more abundantly,” we’ll find real joy.

We’ll find joy in waking up to face each new day, joy in knowing that our Savior  stands with us in our best and worst times, joy in the simple things of life that we easily take for granted, joy not in who we are, but in who God is.  The “Happy Hours” that we pursue in this world sometimes fall short and can easily leave us hurting, empty and let down, but when we find real and enduring joy and happiness in Christ our Savior, we can understand why one writer spoke of his relationship with Jesus and said, “He walks with me and He talks with me and he tells me I am His own, and the joy we share as we tarry there, none other has ever known.”

If you are in the Charleston, South Carolina area, join us on the Third Sunday in June for Church School at 8:45 am and for Worship at 10 am, when we’ll celebrate Fathers’ Day and the end of our 2012 Season of Family and Friends.  The Combined Choir, Voices of Promise and Young Adult Choir will offer praise, and the Commission on Membership and Evangelism will lead the worship service.

           

Sunday’s Scripture Lessons are:

Proverbs 20:1-7

Acts 16:25-34

Luke 15:11-24

Sunday’s Sermon is “Share Your Faith with Your Family”

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

26. EPISCOPAL AND CLERGY FAMILY CONGRATULATORY ANNOUNCEMENTS:

- Bishop Gregory G.M Ingram and the Rev. Dr. Jessica Ingram celebrate their 35th Wedding Anniversary

Bishop Gregory G.M. Ingram and the Rev. Dr. Jessica Kendall Ingram will celebrate 35 years of marriage on June 11. The Ingram's were married on June 11, 1977. They met in February of 1976 while working in the campaign for the Rev. Dr. Frank C. Cummings who was aspiring for the episcopacy. Their first date was at the General Conference of 1976.

They were married one year later at Wayman AME Church in St. Louis, Missouri. The marriage was performed by the late Rev. Lonnie C. Wormerly, Bishop Hubert Nelson Robinson and Bishop Frank Curtis Cummings. They have served together in ministry at Allen Chapel AME in Alton, Illinois; St. John AME, Springfield, Illinois; Quinn Chapel AME, Chicago, Illinois and Oak Grove AME in Detroit, Michigan in 2000.

The Rev. Gregory G.M. Ingram was elevated to the office of the Episcopacy and assigned to the 15^th Episcopal District. They served the 15^th Episcopal District for four years and are completing 8-years of notable service in the 10^th District.

The Ingram's have one daughter, Jennifer Eman Keanne Ingram and one very precious granddaughter, Jayda Eman Keanne Ingram. Because of their love for God, the work of the ministry and each other they have grown closer together and thank God for all that God has done in their marriage.

Expressions of Love "Can Be" Sent to:

journeyministry@aol.com

bishopgregory118@aol.com

Or

4927 Holly Tree Drive

Dallas, Texas 75287

- Bishop Zedekiah LaZett Grady and Mother Carrie Etta Robertson Grady celebrate 55 years of marriage Friday, June 8 2012

Bishop Zedekiah LaZett Grady, the 111th elected and consecrated Bishop of the African Methodist Episcopal Church and Mother Carrie Etta Robertson Grady will celebrate 55 years of marriage, years of marriage Friday, June 8 2012. Bishop and Mother Grady met on the campus of Allen University in 1956 and were married on June 8, 1957 in Winnsboro, South Carolina. After a successful ministry as a Pastor and Presiding Elder in the state of South Carolina, Bishop and Mother Grady served the church in the 16th, 9th and 1st Episcopal Districts.

They will celebrate with their children and grandchildren. Judith Felita Grady Davis, Constance Grady Woodberry and Kenneth Woodberry Esq. and Rev. Carey A. Grady (India Clemons) Cara Leigh Davis, Kendall Bynum Woodberry, Zachary- Andrew Grady Woodberry, and Roman Josiah Woodberry.

Congratulatory wishes may be sent to:

W1mg2cl@aol.com

Bishop and Mother Z.L. Grady

1 Wespanee Drive

Charleston, SC 29407

- Payne Theological Seminary Board of Trustees, President and Faculty present 2012 Graduating Class

Payne Theological Seminary Board of Trustees, President and Faculty are pleased to present our 2012 graduating class. It is an honor to present the largest graduating class in the history of the seminary.  We awarded 30 Master of Divinity and 3 Doctor of Ministry degrees on May 18, 2012.

Our graduates are listed below including their degree and district of service.

Doctor of Ministry

Beaman, Silvester               African Methodist Episcopal            Episcopal District 1

Clarke, Richard                   African Methodist Episcopal            Episcopal District 1

Howard, John                     Baptist

Master of Divinity

Bailey, Albert                     Baptist                                      

Boyer, Charles                   African Methodist Episcopal            Episcopal District 1

Chism, Michael                 African Methodist Episcopal            Episcopal District 1

Covington, Jermaine          African Methodist Episcopal            Episcopal District 3

Davidson, Haywood         African Methodist Episcopal            Episcopal District 11

Davis, Kenneth                  Baptist

Dickey, Pamela.                  Baptist

Dixon, Michelle.                 Disciples of Christ

Felton, LaWanda                Baptist

German, Etha                     African Methodist Episcopal            Episcopal District 7

Gooch, Gregory                 African Methodist Episcopal            Episcopal District 2

Hearst II, Stanley               African Methodist Episcopal            Episcopal District 1

Lee-Pruitt, Glenell              African Methodist Episcopal            Episcopal District 8

Martin, Tiffany                  African Methodist Episcopal            Episcopal District 1

Mays, Vickie                      African Methodist Episcopal            Episcopal District 11

Pace, Carl                            Baptist                                      

Peppers, Deborah               African Methodist Episcopal            Episcopal District 13

Powell, Michael                  Baptist

Rhodes, Mary                     African Methodist Episcopal            Episcopal District 7

Robinson, Earl                    African Methodist Episcopal            Episcopal District 8

Sanders, Keith                     African Methodist Episcopal            Episcopal District 3

Schaeffer, Karen                  African Methodist Episcopal            Episcopal District 3

Sims, Dianne                       African Methodist Episcopal            Episcopal District 1

Smart, Frank                       African Methodist Episcopal            Episcopal District 1

Strong, Terri                        African Methodist Episcopal            Episcopal District 13

Tolbert, Jr. Samuel              Baptist

Webster, Wendell                African Methodist Episcopal            Episcopal District 11

Williams, Allen                   African Methodist Episcopal            Episcopal District 8

Williams, Brian                   African Methodist Episcopal            Episcopal District 7

Williams-Blocker, Brandi    African Methodist Episcopal            Episcopal District 2

 

- The Reverend Robert Kirk, Sr., Retired Presiding Elder of the Indiana Conference will celebrate his 90^th June 11^, 2012

The Reverend Robert Kirk, Sr., retired Presiding Elder of the South District-Indiana Conference, 4th Episcopal District, will celebrate his 90th birthday, June 11, 2012.  The Reverend Robert Kirk, Sr. is the father of the Reverend Barbara L. Harris, pastor of Bethel AME Church, Richmond, IN and the Reverend Robert Kirk, Jr. ministerial staff member at St. Phillip AME Church, Atlanta, GA. The family states: "We are blessed to join in celebration of his 90th Birthday. To God Be the Glory!"

Birthday greetings and well wishes for the Rev. Robert Kirk, Sr. can be emailed to:

The Rev. Barbara L. Harris: revbarbara@yahoo.com 

Or Mailed to:

The Rev. Robert Kirk, Sr.

212 Luther Circle

Jeffersonville, IN 47130

- Navy Chaplain, the Reverend Glenda Jennings Harrison is Selected to Serve as Deputy Chaplain at Commander Navy Installations Command, Washington Navy Yard

AME Itinerant Elder, Commander Glenda Jennings Harrison (U. S. Navy, Chaplain Corps) has been selected to serve as Deputy Chaplain at Commander Navy Installations Command (CNIC) in Washington, D.C. She will serve on the staff of Vice Admiral William D. French, who is the CNIC Commanding Officer.

Chaplain Harrison is an Itinerant Elder within the African Methodist Episcopal Church, from the Second Episcopal District (Washington Conference). With this selection, Chaplain Harrison will be serving in what is known as a “Milestone Billet”, an exclusive designation granted by the Navy Chaplain Corps to officers that show great potential to excel at the next rank. 

Chaplain Harrison was elated to learn that she had been bestowed this honor. “I am very humbled by my recent selection to serve as Deputy Chaplain for CNIC at the historic Washington Navy Yard. I know that it is truly by God’s grace and mercy that I have been given this great opportunity to serve in this capacity and I’m proud to represent the African Methodist Episcopal Church with distinction.” Chaplain Harrison is also enrolled in the Joint Professional Military Education Course (Phase I) to prepare her for the range of her new responsibilities.

Congratulatory messages can be sent to Chaplain Glenda Jennings Harrison

Email: shereegj601@yahoo.com

Home address:

3107 W Place, SE

Washington DC 20020

Danielle K. Dixon graduated Summa Cum Laude from Wilberforce University

Miss Danielle K. Dixon, a member of Central Chapel AME Church, Yellow Springs, Ohio, graduated summa cum laude (top of the class of 2012) from Wilberforce University on May 5, 2012 with a B.S. degree in Biology. She also served as the student representative on the Board of Trustees of Wilberforce University for the 2011-12 academic year.  Danielle is the daughter of Rev. Newton Dixon and Mrs. Elaine Dixon of the Jamaica Conference, 16th Episcopal District, where Bishop Sarah Frances Davis is the Presiding Prelate.  "God is good, God be Praised!"

Congratulatory messages can be emailed to: newgadix@yahoo.com

- The Rev. Samuel W. Chambers, pastor of the Wayman Chapel AME Church New Brighton, Pennsylvania celebrated 50-years of ministry

The Rev. Samuel W. Chambers, pastor of the Wayman Chapel AME Church of New Brighton, Pennsylvania celebrated 50 years of ministry. He began his ministry in the African Methodist Episcopal Church under the leadership of the late Rev. Reuben C. Eberhardt at Bethel AME Church, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. He was assigned his first charge in Elizabeth, Pennsylvania by the 69^th Bishop of our great church, Bishop William R. Wilkes. He and his faithful wife, the former Erma J. McCoy have served 7 churches throughout the Pittsburgh Conference and 1 church in the West Virginia Conference of the 3rd Episcopal District. The Stewards of Wayman Chapel AME Church where Rev. and Mrs. Samuel W. Chambers have served for 3 years, hosted four days of wonderful celebration activities. On July 17, 2012 the couple will celebrate 47 years of marriage. They are blessed with three children and five grandchildren. "To God Be the Glory!”  Rev. Chambers is proud to be a part of the Third Episcopal District where Bishop C. Garnett Henning is the Presiding Prelate and the Dr. Eric L. Brown serves as the dynamic presiding elder of the Allegheny/Scranton District of the Pittsburgh Conference, pursuing the title of General Secretary/Chief Information Officer of the African Methodist Episcopal Church.

Congratulatory messages can be sent to: rev.chambers@verizon.net

- Lic. Ali Gail Holness, daughter of the Rev. Dr. E. Gail Holness graduated from the Howard University School of Divinity with a M.Div degree

- On May 12, 2012, Ali Gail Holness received her Master of Divinity degree from Howard University School of Divinity. She is the daughter of the Rev. Dr. E. Gail Anderson Holness, pastor of Christ Our Redeemer AME Church in Washington, DC.  Ali Gail Holness was selected as the Evans Crawford Fellow and was Graduate Assistant for Dean Bernard Richardson.  Ali graduated from Spelman College in 2009 (B.A. degree) and Trinity University in Washington in 2010 Master of Arts degree in International Studies.  She graduated kindergarten from Bethel AME Christian School in Baltimore, Maryland.  Ali was admitted into the Washington Annual Conference in April 2012.  She serves as Youth Minister at Christ Our Redeemer AME Church in Washington.  .

Dr. E. Gail Anderson Holness, Pastor of Christ our Redeemer AME Church, 809 Upshur Street, NW, Washington, DC 20011

Congratulatory messages may be sent:

Lic. Ali Gail Holness: A.G.Holness@gmail.com

Dr. E. Gail Anderson Holness: egailandersonholness@gmail.com

- The Rev. Malik J. David Sales, of the Ninth Episcopal District, graduates with the Ph.D., in Systematic Theology.

The Rev. Malik J. Sales, currently serves on the ministerial staff at St. Paul AME Church in Berkeley, California where the Rev. Dr.  Leslie R. White is the pastor.  The Rev. Sales graduated on May 10, 2012 with the Doctor of Philosophy Degree in Philosophical and Systematic Theology from the Graduate Theological Union. The Rev. Dr. Sales also served as the commencement speaker for commencement ceremony.

Congratulatory statements/cards may be sent to:

7807 Potrero Avenue

El Cerrito, California 94530

JoDavid23@gmail.com

2012 High School Graduates Submitted

- Tiffany Marie Kelly, daughter of Dr. and Mrs. Herman O. Kelly, Jr. Pastor and first lady of Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church in Baton Rouge, Louisiana graduated from the Saint Joseph's Academy in Baton Rouge on Sunday, May 20, 2012 with first academic honors and National Honor Society recognition. Tiffany will attend the Nova Southeastern University in Davie, Florida in the fall. Congratulatory messages can be emailed to: hokellyj@yahoo.com

- Darrien Drake Bagneris Black, the son of Rev. Bobbie D. Bagneris Mudd, Coordinator of the North Texas Conference, Women in Ministry and Associate Minister at St. Paul A.M.E. Church in Dallas, TX (Rev. Juan Tolliver, pastor) is graduating from J.J. Pearce High School in Richardson, TX.  Darrien will attend Utica College in Utica, NY beginning with the Summer Institute June 30, 2012. Darrien received a Leadership Scholarship from Utica College and has a desire to major in Classical Civilization and Minor in History. Congratulatory messages can be emailed to: revbobbie@ymail.com

- Tashay Nicole Maxwell, the niece of The Reverend Matthew Shannon, the pastor of Beulah AME Church in Farmville, Virginia graduated from Cane Ridge High School in Antioch, TN on May 19, 2012. Congratulatory messages can be emailed to: mbs102@gmail.com

27. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

On Monday, June 11, 2012, the Reverend Veola McGowan of the 12th Episcopal District passed. Reverend McGowan was retired, but prior to her retirement, she was the faithful pastor for 35 years of the Princeton Circuit. The Reverend McGowan will always be remembered for her sweet mannerism, and her genuine love for God and God's people.

The Celebration of the Life of the Rev. Veola McGowan will be held:

Wednesday, June 20, 2012
11:00 a.m.

St. Paul AME Church
1501 Caddo Street
Arkadelphia, AR 71923

Arrangements are with Welch Funeral Home
202 South 4th Street
Arkadelphia, AR 71923
870-230-1400

Condolences may be shared with the McGowan family via her daughter, Mrs. Veola Williams, 10100 Stardust Trail, Little Rock, AR 72209; telephone: 501-351-5385

28. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

We are sad to announce the transition of the Reverend Jeremias Baisako yesterday, June 4, 2012. The Reverend Baisako was a superannuated preacher in Namibia Annual Conference, 15th Episcopal District under leadership of Bishop E Earl McCloud Jr.

The Rev Baisako, one of the founders of the AME Church in Namibia, was ordained in 1958 as itinerant deacon and 1960 as itinerant elder. He has served the AME Church faithfully at Robinson AME Church, Tses; Ebenezer AME Church, Blou West, Soli Deo Gloria AME Church, Kutenhoas; Elim AME Church, Kainachas; AE Koopman AME Church, Berseba and retired from active ministry in 1993 due to ill-health. He was preceded to glory by his 1st and 2nd wives, and leaves a legacy of virtues of patience, tolerance and humility.

All enquiries can be directed to Rev Dr Andreas Biwa, presiding elder of the Luderitz District at +26463223457 or +264812132394

Sent via my BlackBerry from Vodacom - Let your email find you! The joy of the Lord is my Strength!

Submitted by the Rev W. S. Hanse, Presiding Elder [revwshansepe@yahoo.com]

29. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

We are saddened to announce the passing of the Rev. Howard W. Johnson on Friday, May 25, 2012. The Rev. Johnson was a retired Itinerant Elder in the 10^th Episcopal District.  He was called to ministry in 1960 and pastored churches in the North, Northeast and Northwest Texas Conferences.

His ministry took him to St. Joseph's AME Church-Dallas, Texas, Macedonia AME Church-Kaufman, Texas, Bethel AME Church-Corsicana, Texas, St. Paul AME Church (White Rock) Dallas, Texas, Ebenezer AME Church-Tyler, Texas and finally he retired from Edwards Chapel AME Church-Palmer, Texas.

The following information has been shared in regards to Viewing and Homegoing Celebration for Rev. Howard Johnson:

The funeral was held on Friday, June 1, 2012 at the Singing Hills Memorial Chapel in Dallas, Texas.

CONDOLENCES MAY BE SENT TO:

The family:

The Rev. Howard W. Johnson

426 Glen Oaks Blvd

Dallas, Texas 75232

Telephone: (214) 374-6610

30. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

We regret to inform you of the passing of Dr. James Brown, M.D. He was the brother of Mrs. Erma Chambers, wife of the Rev. Samuel Chambers, pastor of Wayman Chapel African Methodist Episcopal Church in New Brighton, Pennsylvania.

The funeral was held on Saturday, June 2, 2012 at First United Methodist Church of Hyattsville Drive in Hyattsville, Maryland.

View - Sign Guest Book:

http://www.mcguire-services.com/obits/obituary.php?id=180847

Condolences may be sent to:

Mrs. Erma Chambers

1120 6th Avenue

New Brighton, PA 15066

Email: rev.chambers@verizon.net

31. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

It is with sadness that we inform you that Brother Leon Thornton, 10^th Episcopal District Lay President, has transitioned from labor to rest. Mr. Leon Thornton passed on May 27, 2012.

The funeral was held on Friday, June 1, 2012 at Smith Chapel AME Church

In Dallas, Texas.

Condolences may be sent to:

Sister Patricia Thornton

911 Cresthaven Drive

Lancaster, Texas 75134

Telephone: (972) 227-3815

32. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

It is with regret, that we announce the passing of Sister Dorothy Conway on May 22, 2012. She was the wife of the Rev. Lewis Conway, a retired Itinerant Elder in the 10^th Episcopal District.  Sister Dorothy Conway was a member of Vision of Hope AME Church, Austin, Texas, Dr. Mark Washington, pastor; Dr. Lawrence R. Emanuel, Presiding Elder, Austin Capital District.

The Homegoing Celebration was held for Sister Dorothy Conway on Tuesday, May 29, 2012 at Grant AME Worship Center in Austin, Texas.

Condolences may be sent to:

The Rev. Lewis Conway

7304 Barcelona Drive

Austin, Texas 78752

Phone: (512) 458-1445

33. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

We regret to inform you of the passing of Allie Buddy Hart, Sr. who departed this life on Wednesday, May 23, 2012 in Nashville, TN.  He is survived by his devoted niece, the Rev. Anna Robinson, an associate minister at Lee Chapel AME Church in Nashville, Tennessee and other family and friends.

The Funeral Mass was held on Thursday, May 31, 2012 at St. Edwards Catholic Church in Nashville, Tennessee.

Expressions of sympathy may be sent in care of the family of Allie Buddy Hart, Jr. to:

Lewis & Wright Funeral Directors

2500 Clarksville Highway

Nashville, TN 37208

Or to:

The Reverend Anna Robinson

P.O. Box 2198

Antioch, TN 37011

Phone: (615) 415-4492

34. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

Tuesday night, June 12, 2012, the Reverend Hugh Bennett, a retired preacher in the Oklahoma State Annual Conference passed away. Reverend Bennett faithfully served as pastor of St. James AME Church in Arcadia, Oklahoma, and Allen Chapel AME Church prior to his retirement.

The Reverend Bennett was partnered in ministry by his spouse, Mrs. Cordelia Bennett who once served as the 12^th Episcopal District Director of Music as well as a Connectional Officer in the Music Ministry of the AME Church. The Reverend Bennett was a gentle giant and possessed a gift of preaching, praying and singing. His renditions of the hymns of the Church as well as selections from "Porgy and Bess" brought much pleasure to those around him.

The Celebration of Life Service will be held:

Tuesday, June 19, 2012, 11 a.m.

Allen Chapel A.M.E. Church

1400 NE 13^th Street

Oklahoma City, OK 73117

Reverend Harvey G. Potts, Pastor

Arrangements are entrusted to:

Temple and Sons Funeral Home

2801 No. Kelley Avenue

Oklahoma City, OK

405-427-8321

Condolences may be shared with:

Mrs. Cordelia Bennett and Family

1713 NE 44^th Street

Oklahoma City, OK 73111

405-427-1579

Expressions of sympathy may be emailed to: bennettkrazylala@aol.com or amec_box12@yahoo.com

35. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

We regret to inform you of the passing of the Rev. Willie James Moses on Monday evening June 11, 2012.  The Rev. Willie James Moses, age 67, was a retired Itinerant Elder of the East Tennessee Conference and member of Bethel AME Church, Chattanooga, Tennessee.

The Rev. Willie James Moses entered the ministry in the 3^rd Episcopal District while he was a student at Wilberforce University, Wilberforce, Ohio under the leadership of the Rev. Carl Liggins and he preached his second sermon in the 13^th Episcopal District at St. Paul AME Church in Chattanooga, Tennessee under the leadership of the Rev. C. E. Jenkins. He was admitted to the East Tennessee Annual Conference by Bishop Frederick Douglas Jordan and he was elected and ordained an Itinerant Deacon by Bishop Carey Abraham Gibbs.  He was elected and ordained an Itinerant Elder by Bishop William Reid Wilkes, Sr. He served faithfully and diligently under a total of ten Bishops and he served in sixteen churches in the East Tennessee Annual Conference and one church in the Tennessee Annual Conference. In 2006, he retired from the work of the active ministry.

Service arrangements for Rev. Willie James Moses:

Tuesday, June 19, 2012

Family Visitation: 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM

John P. Franklin Funeral Home

1101 Dodds Avenue

Chattanooga, TN 37404

Wednesday, June 20, 2012

Funeral: 1:00 PM

Bethel AME Church

2000 Walker Street

Chattanooga, TN 37404

Phone: 423-622-1261

The Reverend A. J. Holman, Sr., Senior Pastor/Officiant

The Reverend Wesley I. Reid, Eulogist

Pastor of Lee Memorial AME Church, Cleveland, OH

Services are entrusted to:

John P. Franklin Funeral Home

1101 Dodds Avenue

Chattanooga, TN 37404

Phone: 423-622-9995

Fax: 423-622-9990

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to:  John P. Franklin Funeral Home

Checks should be made payable to John P. Franklin Funeral Home and mailed to:

John P. Franklin Funeral Home

1101 Dodds Avenue

Chattanooga, TN 37404

Sympathy cards may be sent to:

The family of the Rev. Willie James Moses

C/o Bethel AME Church

2000 Walker Street

Chattanooga, TN 37404

Email condolences can be emailed to: RobertaAbernathy@hotmail.com

36. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

We regret to inform you of the passing of Ms. Daisy Banks Gray.  Ms. Gray is the sister of the Reverend Larry M. Banks, Pastor of Bethel AMEC, West Memphis; the Reverend Lessly Banks, Pastor of Toones Chapel AMEC, Leola, and the Reverend Andrew Banks, pastor of St. James-Stephens and Earlyview AMEC, McNeil.

The funeral for Ms. Daisy Banks Gray was held on Thursday, June 14, 2012 at St. James AME Church in Stephens, Arkansas. 

Expressions of sympathy may be sent to:

Bethel AME Church

The Rev. Larry M. Banks, Pastor

2403 East Barton Ave

West Memphis, AR 72301

Toones Chapel AME Church

The Rev. Lessly Banks, Pastor

P. O. Box 188 / 333 N. 5th Street

Leola, AR 71725

St. James-Stephens AME Church

The Rev. Andrew Banks, Pastor

PO Box 188/ Arch Street

Stephens, AR 71764

Or:

Early View AME Church

The Rev. Andrew Banks, Pastor

Columbia City Road 72

McNeil, AR 71752

37. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

We regret to inform you of the passing of the Reverend Kenneth Burnett. Reverend Burnett passed away on Wednesday evening, June 6, 2012 in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania. He was the pastor of Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church in Williamsport, Pennsylvania.

The following arrangements celebrating his life have been made:

Viewing will held on Tuesday, June 12, 2012

5:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m.

Kniffen O'Malley Funeral Home

465 South Main Street

Wilkes-Barre, PA 18701

570-823-7157

Fax: 570-823-4170

The Celebration of Life was held on Wednesday, June 13, 2012 at the 

Kniffen O'Malley Funeral Home in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania.

Condolences and Cards can be sent to:

Mrs. Donna Burnett

32 Lockhart Street

Wilkes-Barre, PA 18702

38. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

We regret to announce the transition of Brother Randy Shelton Wilson, the nephew of Sister Gwendolyn Brown, Central South Carolina Annual Conference President of MSWAWO+PK's and the Chairperson for the Nominating Committee for Conn-M-SWAWO+PK's.  Sister Gwendolyn Brown is married to the Rev. Ronnie Brown pastor of Pine Grove AME Church.

Brother Randy made his transition from life on June 2, 2012 at McLeod Regional Medical Center in Florence, SC.

.

The Funeral service was held on Wednesday, June 6, 2012 at the Greater St. Mark AME Church in Hemingway, South Carolina.

Online Guest Book:

http://nesmithpinckneyfuneralhome.com/fh/obituaries/obituary.cfm?o_id=1498898&fh_id=13644

Expressions of Sympathy and Condolences may be sent to:

Sister Gwendolyn Brown

P.O. Box 730

Hemingway, South Carolina, 29554

Telephone: 843-558-3010

Email: gmabelbrown@aol.com

39. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

Angela Hawthorne Smith, wife of Presiding Elder William Smith, Jr., of the Marion District, of the Seventh Episcopal District transitioned from labor to reward on Sunday, June 3, 2012. Her beautiful spirit brought joy to those she encountered along the way. She will be remembered for her kindness and great sense of humor. She served as an officer in the Local, District, Conference, Episcopal, and Connectional Levels of the Young People's Division (YPD), Area Consultant for the Columbia and Marion District, CONN-M-SWAWO+PK's, Liaison for South Carolina Clergy Family Information Center reporting with great dispatch clergy family bereavements.  Angela served with great distinction as a DMC Conference Commissioner in the Northeast and South Carolina Conferences.

Sister Angela Smith was a member of Chappelle Memorial AME Church in Columbia, South Carolina.  She participated in the following organizations: Steward Board, Stewardesses Board I, Lay Organization, Lucile Holman Missionary Unit, and a member of the Voices of Chappelle.

Sister Angela was always conscious of her civic responsibilities and the needs of her community. She was a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., NAACP, Church Women United, Interdenominational Ministerial Wives Alliance, and active with the Voter Registration Drive.

The following information has been provided regarding service arrangements:

The Homegoing Service/Celebration of Life Service was held on Thursday, June 7, 2012 at Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church in Columbia, South Carolina.

Expressions of Sympathy and Condolences may be sent to:

Reverend Dr. William Smith, Jr. & Family

P.O. Box 25098-29224

Columbia, South Carolina, 29224

803-736-0855

Email: WSmith0618@aol.com

40. 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  

41. 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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