7/26/2012

THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER ONLINE ENGLISH EDITION (7/26/12)


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


1. EDITORIAL – WE CAN LEARN FROM EACH OTHER’S PET PEEVES:

Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III
The 20th Editor of The Christian Recorder

I read a post on “A.M.E. Church Members Connecting Around the World” by the Rev. Jacquie Warren Wilson in which she said that one of her pet peeves was hearing AMEs sing the Offertory wrong. She pointed out that she hears parishioners sing, "All things come of Thee O Lord, and of Thine own as we given Thee." 

Her comment hit me “between the eyes,” because I stand guilty as charged. I have been singing it that way for as long as I can remember.

After reading the Rev. Jacquie Warren Wilson's comment, I sang the Offertory and sure enough, I am one of those persons who sing, or used to before reading the post, "All things come of Thee O Lord, and of Thine own as we given Thee."

I felt about as dumb-founded when I read Rev. Wilson’s post as I felt in 2009 when Ms. Carol A. Bowie, the Director of Lay Activities at Oak Grove AME Church in Detroit, Michigan pointed out that “grievous” in the General Confession was a two syllable word. I had always pronounced “grievous,” and had always heard it pronounced, with three syllables.

I still hear parishioners, preachers, and even bishops across the AME connection enunciating   “grievously,” as a four syllable word instead of correctly pronouncing the word as a three syllable word.

Bad habits are hard to break

“Have,” not “as”

I went to the 1954 AME Hymnal, the hymnal I grew up with, and the Rev. Jacquie Warren Wilson is absolutely correct, the correct phrase of the hymn is, “All things come of Thee, O Lord; and of Thine own HAVE we given Thee. Amen."

I am a bit embarrassed because I have been singing the Offertory with the word, “as” instead of the correct word, “have,” and probably have been doing so for years; and I suspect that I am not the only one.

The Rev. Jacquie Warren Wilson’s pet peeve is a legitimate one.

And, while we are on pet peeves, I have a couple of pet peeves

The definition of “henceforth” means, “from now on.”  It is redundant to end a benediction with, “Now, henceforth and forevermore.” 

More appropriate benediction endings might be, "Both now and forevermore," “Now and always,” “From this time forth and forever,” “From henceforth and for ever,” “Now and forever, “ Henceforth and forever,” “From now and unto eternity,” and “From this time forth and for evermore” based on different biblical translations of Psalm 131:3.

And, of course, the Apostolic Benediction is always appropriate: “Now unto him that is able to keep you from falling, and to present you faultless before the presence of his glory with exceeding joy, to the only wise God our Saviour, be glory and majesty, dominion and power, both now and forever.  Amen.  Jude 1:24-25

Another pet peeve

Cherub. Another common mistake is putting an “s” on the plural word of cherubim, which is plural. Cherub is the singular of “cherubim.” 

Seraphim - a word that gives new preachers trouble; can be used in the plural or singular.  The plural of “seraphim” does not take an “s.” 

Sometimes seraph may be used as the singular of seraphim and seraphs may be used as the plural of seraph. The term, Seraphim, does not require an “s” to make it plural.

Don’t cut out part of the message

It is obvious that some pastors and some musicians have not understood the appropriate use of hymns or gospel songs in worship.  I suspect that there are some pastors who have never sung all of the stanzas of any hymn.  I have heard pastors, and have done so myself, instruct the congregation to sing the 1st, 2nd and 4th stanzas.

For some hymns that might be appropriate, but not for all hymns and it is important for pastors and music directors to know the difference when it is appropriate to skip a stanza. And, please do not confuse stanzas and verses, but that’s another editorial.

The Difference

When one reads a novel, he or she does not skip chapters because if he or she did so, it might make the storyline unintelligible. The same principle can be applied to certain hymns that tell complete story.

When I read the comic strips, I don’t read all of them; I pick and choose which comic strips to read because each comic strip has its own message. I can skip over the ones I don’t want to read.

When I read a news article, I have to read the entire article; I don’t skip over paragraphs because if I did, I would not fully understand the article.  

Some hymns stanzas tells a complete story

It might be appropriate to skip a stanza when each stanza tells a complete story.  “Amazing Grace” is such a hymn, each stanza tells a complete story.

The hymn, “I Know the Lord’s laid His Hands on me” is another hymn in which each stanza tells a story.

Some hymns are written to tell one story

Other hymns tell one story and worshippers have to sing the entire hymn to get the complete message. 

It is not appropriate to skip stanzas in the hymn, “The Church’s One Foundation” because each stanza is a chapter and together the chapters tell a story. Skipping a stanza would be like skipping a chapter in a book. “All Hail the Power of Jesus’ Name” is another hymn that all the stanzas should be sung.

“Let the Church say ‘Amen’”

The AME Church has historically sung the Doxology at the beginning and at the end of worship as a way to affirm the Trinity.  Trinitarian denominations almost always include “Amen” when hymns end in a Trinitarian or Doxological verse.

Another pet peeve

I do not understand why many of our churches omit the “Amen” when the Doxology is sung at the beginning of worship. I believe that we should affirm “Praise God, from Whom all blessings flow; Praise Him, all creatures here below; Praise Him above, ye heavenly host; Praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost” by including “Amen” because “Amen” is an expression of concurrence or assent. 

“Amen” is a term used in response to a religious statement and is always an appropriate ending of prayers. To say, "Amen" is to express strong approval of, or support for religious statements or expressions. “Amen” simply means, “So be it” and “I agree.”

Historically, the “Amen” at the end of hymns was decided by each denomination. Some denominations have had hymnbooks without “Amens.” and other hymnals included “Amens.”   The AME Church Hymnal has some hymns with “Amen” and other hymns without “Amen.” 

I can understand why a hymn as, “Farther Along” would not end with an “Amen” because that hymn provides information and raises questions.  The hymn, “Get right with God” does not have an “Amen” because it’s telling us to “get right with God” and it’s conveying a warning.

“Amen” is appropriate for doxological hymns, and appropriate for praise, assurance, and hope.

I have not done a formal study but my anecdotal observation is that every sacramental denomination affirms all doxological hymns with. “Amen.”

One more pet peeve

In the AMEC Hymnal, The Book of Disciple of the African Methodist Episcopal Church 2008, the AMEC Book of Worship and printed church bulletins, the bold print in the liturgy always indicates that the bolded text is to be read by the people and the unbolded text is read by the worship leader.

The Prayer of Thanksgiving in the Communion liturgy is bolded in the AMEC Hymnal, which indicates that the people and clergy read the Prayer of Thanksgiving in unison.

In AME Churches the Lord’s Prayer is usually prayed in unison or sung, yet The Discipline instructs the elder to pray the Lord’s Prayer. Actually, The Discipline says, “Then the elder say the Lord’s Prayer.”  I was always taught, and it made sense to me that we “pray” the Lord’s Prayer.

The AMEC Book of Worship rubric says, “Then the Minister and the people pray in unison,” but the print is unbolded.

It’s time to get all of the worship liturgy materials consolidated.

I want to thank the Rev. Jacquie Warren Wilson for posting her pet peeve on the “A.M.E. Church Members Connecting Around the World” FaceBook website.

One more thing

Some people struggle with negative FaceBook postings, but the reality is that people have to have a safe place to vent and technology is here to stay. No matter how negative a posting, it’s better than anonymous letters. I see some far-out comments on FaceBook, but I also see a lot of good, constructive comments on FaceBook. I have also seen some enlightening discussions on FaceBook and that’s a positive.

I am willing to keep my mind open and learn and I learned something this week – “All things come of Thee, O Lord; and of Thine own HAVE we given Thee." Amen.

2. INFORMATION ABOUT THE GENERAL CONFERENCE CAN BE ACCESSED ON THE OFFICIAL AME CHURCH WEBSITE:

Visit the AME Church Official Website http://www.ame-church.com/ to read the Minutes, proposed Legislations, etc. of the General Conference.  Delegates, Observers, and visitors are invited to fill out the General Conference evaluation document online.

You can view all of the information about the 49th Quadrennial Session of the General Conference by going to http://www.ame-church.com/. Everything is located on the AMEC Official Website: http://www.ame-church.com/ 

3. GENERAL CONFERENCE DESIGNATES AME-INDIA A PART OF THE 4TH EPISCOPAL DISTRICT:

The General Conference added AME India to the 4th Episcopal District. Bishop John R. Bryant, AMEC Senior Bishop is the Presiding Prelate of the 4th Episcopal District.

4. AME GENERAL CONFERENCE CUTS 3% SALARY CUTS FOR BISHOPS AND GENERAL OFFICERS:

In addition to the salary cuts, the Connectional Office’s budgets were also cut 5.49%. According to Mrs. Jackie Dupont Walker who said, “We will do what is necessary to "make bricks without straws" because of the importance of the work and the commitment made to fulfill the mission of African Methodism.”  

5. TCR ERROR CORRECTION:

The front page article in the July 9, 2012 print edition of The Christian Recorder had a typographical error, which reported that Bishop Clement W. Fugh’s tenure as General Secretary/Chief Information Officer ended on Wednesday July 27th.  Bishop Fugh ended his tenure as General Secretary/Chief Information Officer ended on Wednesday June 27th.

6. AME CHURCH URGES NATION TO UNITE AGAINST GUN VIOLENCE:

(Los Angeles)  The African Methodist Episcopal Church (AME) joins with the entire nation and the global community in expressing our sympathy, and lifting our prayers for those who were tragically and senselessly killed and wounded in the shooting last night at the Century 16 Movie Theatre in Aurora, Colorado.Words alone cannot express the depth of our pain and our compassion for each victim, their families, those who witnessed the carnage, and the stunned Aurora community, declares Bishop Samuel Lawrence Green, Sr., President of the Council of Bishops. “At this time none of us are strangers, but children of God who need and seek God’s love and comfort for healing, comfort, and peace of mind. We stand readily available to minister to those who have been victimized.  If we've ever needed the Lord before; we surely need him now. We also lift up prayers for James Holmes (the perpetrator of this mass murder). Although we believe in redemption for every misguided soul; we also believe in justice," proclaims Bishop Theodore Larry Kirkland, Sr., Presiding Bishop of the 5th Episcopal District which includes the state of Colorado. 

“As we lift all who are impacted in prayer, we also call upon the leadership of our nation and state governments to take action to curb the increasing violence, hurt and death which is being caused by our failure to enact gun control legislation,” asserts Bishop Reginald Thomas Jackson, chair of the Social Action Commission. “Today’s tragedy is more evidence that gun violence is out of control,” says Bishop Adam Jefferson Richardson, Jr., President of the General Board of the AME Church. 

We have heard the retort of the gun lobby that guns don’t kill people, but guns are in the hands of people. Gun laws have become so lax that it is easier to get a gun than it is to get a driver’s license. Often individuals can get as many guns as they want with very lax if any background checks. “The African Methodist Episcopal Church does not question the right to bear arms, but we also believe that there must be some checks and balances to ensure that guns are not in the hands of persons who are a danger to themselves and others”, adds Bishop John Richard Bryant, Senior Bishop.

The African Methodist Episcopal Church calls upon the candidates of both parties to lay before the nation their position as it relates to passing again the Assault Weapons Ban, and other gun control measures, and we call upon the Congress and state governors and legislatures to act in a bipartisan manner on gun control. “We also call upon other church communions, civic groups and national organizations to join with Faiths United Against Gun Violence in speaking out and acting on this issue,” concludes the Social Action Director, Jacquelyn Dupont-Walker. Daily, in our local communities, we experience maiming and murders from gun violence.  On April 20, 1999, the Columbine senseless shootings took 12 lives and left 26 wounded.  Exactly 13 years and 3 months later, the Aurora shootings create a new record of mass deaths by gun violence.  How many tragedies does our nation have to endure, before we act on controlling the violence, injury and death caused by the increase and use of guns in our nation?  

July 21, 2012 
                                                                                                                       
Bishop Reginald T. Jackson, Chair, AMEC Social Action Commission
Reginald.Jackson132@verizon.net                                                                                                                                 

Jacquelyn Dupont-Walker, Social Action Director

7. KUDOS FROM THE SOCIAL ACTION COMMISSION AND THE REMINDER TO REGISTER AND VOTE:

Thank you to The Christian Recorder for the re-cap of the General Conference.   I'd also like to add thanks to you for your teamwork with the Social Action Commission to response to, and quickly convey messages of importance to our Church's ministry in the U.S.A. and to the world - especially the Letter to the U.S. House of Representative reference Attorney General Eric Holder, the response re the AME Church and President Obama, and the Resolution reference the Urgent Need to Conduct Voter Education, Mobilization and Registration drives in the upcoming months (Operation EMR).

The attention to these matters by the 49th Session of the General Conference was unprecedented.  We did NOT forget that our voice was needed for the good of humanity. We were mindful that injustice anywhere must be addressed without hesitation.  And we recommitted ourselves to legacy work - helping the people to empower themselves.

As we think about the global nature of our ministry work and the whole kingdom of God, I also remember the Ecumenical Service with the broad representation from other Christian faith bodies and fellow communions along with the convicting sermon by Dr. Ivan Abrahams, General Secretary for the World Methodist Council.  The diversity of representation signaled the level of respect that the AME Church has among sister communications and faith bodies, especially the work our Ecumenical Officer, Bishop John White. The attendance of the delegation showed our church membership's appreciation of the whole body of Christ and the importance of the ecumenical work. The challenges from his sermon gave all of us a new "prayer" for the tasks and new ministry opportunities that face us.

On behalf of the Social Action Commission, the opportunity to serve as the AME Church's representative on the General Board on Church and Society of the United Methodist Church was not only a chance for fellowship but to access resources that undergirded the work of the Commission. With their fully staffed office, I could access their research, be invited to dialogue on important issues and engage the AME Church, in many instances was the only historically Black denomination, in places where our voices have been silent or missing.

Finally, the work of Operation EMR has begun.  Please visit the Social Action Commission's website at www.ame-sac.com.  The Operation EMR Guide can be downloaded.  Other resource information, especially from VESSELS is available.  YOU CAN REGISTER TO VOTE online, no matter where you live. Visit the website regularly because we update it on a regular basis.

Thanks and be well!!

Sistah "Jackie"
Jacquelyn Dupont-Walker, Director
Social Action Commission

8. THE 49TH QUADRENNIAL SESSION OF THE GENERAL CONFERENCE OF THE AME ZION CHURCH:

The 49th Quadrennial Session of the AME Zion General Conference met in Charlotte, North Carolina - JULY 18-24, 2012,

The following Bishops retired:

Senior Bishop George W.C. Walker, Sr.
Bishop S. Chuka Ekemam
Bishop Warren A. Brown

Three Bishops elected

Bishop W. Darrin Moore (Greater Centennial, Mt. Vernon, NY)

Bishop Seth O. Lartey (Golen Memorial A.M.E. Zion Church in the Piedmont Episcopal District).

Bishop Michael A. Frencher (Trinity, Greensboro)

Episcopal Assignments

Piedmont (Western North Carolina): Bishop George E. Battle, Jr.

Mid-Atlantic I: Bishop Louis Hunter, Sr.

Mid-Atlantic II: Bishop Richard K. Thompson

North Eastern (New England, New York): Bishop Roy A. Holmes

Eastern North Carolina (also contains Eastern Tennessee): Bishop James McCoy

South Atlantic (South Carolina and Georgia): Bishop Kenneth Monroe

Midwest (Michigan, Illinois, Kentucky and Middle Tennessee): Bishop Darryl B. Starnes

Alabama / Florida: Bishop Dennis Proctor

Southwestern Delta (Texas, Arkansas, Oklahoma, Mississippi and Western Tennessee): Bishop Mildred Hines

Western (California, Alaska, Washington, Oregon, Nevada and Arizona): Bishop W. Darrin Moore

Western West Africa (Liberia, Ghana, Togo and Cote d'Ivoire): Bishop Seth Lartey

Eastern West Africa (Nigeria): Bishop Michael Frencher

The AME delegation in attendance at the AMEZ General Conference included:

Senior Bishop John R. Bryant, Presiding Prelate of the 4th Episcopal District who delivered greetings at the AMEZ General Conference Opening Night Ecumenical Service.

Bishop John Franklin White, Sr., Presiding Prelate of the 18th Episcopal District who served as the AMEC Ecumenical Officer 2008 - 2012

Daryl Ingram, AMEC Executive Director of Christian Education

Presiding Elder Albert Tyson, III (4th Episcopal District)

Mr. Bobby Rankin (2nd Episcopal District)

Mr. John Thomas III also attended on behalf of the World Methodist Council.

Keynote addresses were given by Representative James Clyburn and United States Trade Representative Ron Kirk.

**Submitted by Mr. John Thomas III

9. DISPOSITION OF THE 2012 GENERAL CONFERENCE BILLS

Report submitted by Mrs. Starr Battle, Corresponding Secretary-CLO

At the 2012 AME General Conference, 4 of the 9 Connectional Lay Organization Sponsored Bills, the CLO Constitution and By-Laws and the Resolution concerning the District Budgets passed.

CSO-12-01 AME Women in Ministry By-Laws -PASSED

CSO-12-02 Constitution and By-Laws of Christian Debutante Master Commission - PASSED

CSO-12-03 MCAM Constitution and By Laws, 2012-2016 - PASSED

CSO-12-04 Sons of Allen: General Conference, Annual Conference, District Conference, Quarterly Conference Composition - PASSED

CSO-12-05 The Connectional Lay Organization of the African Methodist Episcopal Church - PASSED

CSO-12-06 The Connectional Lay Organization of the African Methodist Episcopal Church Constitution and By-Laws – Revised and Passed

CSO-12-07 Women in Ministry By-Laws 2012 – Final - PASSED

CSO-12-08 WMS Constitution and By-Laws – Amended - PASSED

IC-04-02 Correction to Deed Form for Real Property - PASSED

IC-04-03 Local Church Property – Transfer of Property - PASSED

CM-05-01 Admission into the Church - PASSED

CM-05-02 Admission into the Church (Full Membership) - PASSED

CM-05-03 Admission into the Church (preparation for membership - PASSED

CM-05-04 Advancement from Membership to Discipleship in the AME Church w/ revision - PASSED

Lay Organization Sponsored

CM-05-06 Deaconesses - PASSED

CM-05-06 Growing the local AME Church School - PASSED

MN-06-01 Admission Policy for Itinerant Ministry - PASSED

MN-06-04 Clarification of Authority of Active Bishops Section III (D) 16 to provide that all Issues Related to Clergy Sexual Misconduct Complaints are Governed by the Clergy Sexual Misconduct Policy - PASSED

MN-06-07 Consequences of Failure to Accept a Pastoral Appointment - FAILED

MN-06-09 Distribution of AMEC Ministerial Retirement Annuity Plan Benefits -PASSED

MN-06-10 Inventory of AME Church Property and Asset Management w/amendment - PASSED

Lay Organization Sponsored

MN-06-16 Minister’s Bill of Rights – Housing - PASSED

MN-06-17 Minister’s Bill of Rights – 1

MN-06-19 Minister’s Bill of Rights – Notice of Change w/ revision - PASSED

MN-06-20 Notarized Statement Regarding Surrender of Ministerial Orders - PASSED

MN-06-24 Presiding Elder Administrative Function - DELETED

MN-06-25 Presiding Elder District Budget - PASSED

Lay Organization Sponsored

MN-06-26 Retirement of Ministers in the AME Church - PASSED

GD-07-05 Duties of an Active Bishop - PASSED

GD-07-10 Special One time Assignment of Overseas Bishop - FAILED

GD-07-13 Voting Privileges of Retired Bishops in the Council of Bishops, General Board and General Conference. - PASSED

CDG-08-05 Ministerial Efficiency - Deleted? Or Failed

CC-09-01 (Captive Insurance) - FAILED

CC-09-03 Application Requirements for Ecclesiastical Endorsement w/revision - PASSED

CC-09-04 To Amend the Chaplains Delegation to the General Conference - FAILED

CC-09-06: Clarifying the Usage of youth and Young Adults - PASSED

CC-09-07 Commission on Higher Education - PASSED

CC-09-09 Election of the General Secretary w/revisions - PASSED

CC-09-11 Enforcement of Conference Attendance by Chaplains w/amendment - PASSED

CC-09-15: Inclusion of Young Adult Clergy in the General Conference - PASSED

CC-09-17 Membership on the Episcopal District Budget Committee - PASSED

Lay Organization Sponsored

CC-09-22: Representation of Young Adults on Connectional Boards and Commissions - PASSED

CC-09-25 The Annual Conference Board of Trustees - PASSED

CC-09-27 Grant a Vote to the Director of Social Action - FAILED

CC-09-28 The Quarterly Conference Composition - PASSED

GDC-11-01 Episcopal District Development Budgets for Districts 14-20 - PASSED

GDC-11-04 The H.B. Senatle AME Church Center - PASSED

JA-12-01 Clergy Sexual Misconduct—I - PASSED

JA-12-04 Clergy Sexual Misconduct—IV w/ revision - PASSED

JA-12-05 Clergy Sexual Misconduct—V - PASSED

JA-12-08 Zero Tolerance on Domestic Violence - PASSED

JA-12-09 Guiding Principles to Consider whether a Clergy Person, Bishop, Lay Person Should be Temporarily Suspended after a Sexual Misconduct Complaint is Filed - PASSED

JA-12-10 On Divorce - DELETED

JA-12-11 Referencing Judicial Council Decision in The Discipline - PASSED

JA-12-12 Rescinding Temporary suspension of Clergy Person if Clergy Sexual Misconduct Complaint if not Referred to Trial - PASSED

JA-12-14 The Judicial Council Duties - PASSED

Reprinted from the Connectional Lay Organization Online

Bishop William Phillips DeVeaux Sr, Lay Commission Chairman
Dr. Willie C. Glover, President of the Connectional Lay Organization
Mrs. Eileen S. Warner, CLO Online Administrator

10. THE 8TH ANNUAL ST. PAUL MINNEAPOLIS DISTRICT CONFERENCE

By Charles Hallman, District reporter, Wayman AME, Minneapolis

The eighth annual St. Paul Minneapolis District Conference hosted at Payne Memorial AME, Waterloo Iowa (June 19-22) was a four-day spiritual synchrony of preaching and teaching.
   
It began when the Rev. Stacey Smith (Minneapolis) spiritually asked the attendees what is the purpose of their being at the conference as she began her sermon during the opening worship service.  “God don’t want religion but a relationship with Him,” says Smith.  “He wants you to come and adore him because He is God.”
   
Smith’s sermon was titled, “A Christmas story in a time like this” and she used Luke 2:15-20 and Esther 4:13-14 as her text. 

The shepherds’ visit to the manger was “the first district conference,” notes Smith. “We should come expecting God to show up and show out . . . and leave here with a blessing.”
   
Everyone – clergy and laity has a role to help build the church, the preacher continues.  “If you want to see your church grow, members stop talking about your pastors.  Pastors stop talking about your members – God says pray for your church and your members.”
   
Smith says that we underestimate God:  “Dream big – our dreams are too small.  God has done a new thing, and we can dare to dream big . . . because there is nothing too big for the great I AM.”
   
St. Paul Minneapolis District Presiding Elder Alphonse Reff later told the conference attendees at the evening’s Holy Communion service that there is too much “immature sins” in the church.  “Immaturity is not accepted by God.  You got some spiritual growing up to do,” he preached on Ephesians 4: 14-16.  “God wants you to grow up.”
    
The presiding elder added that a lot of Christians “are out of position and can’t grow.  You have to be in position” in order to receive God, who has developed “a growth plan” for each of us.   You better let God tell you how to grow up.  Let God mature you.
   
“Grow up in God because God wants you to grow up.  This is the time to grow up,” he concludes.
   
The Rev. Carolyn Stevenson, pastor of Coppin AME (Fort Dodge, Iowa) boldly told the church during her Hour of Power sermon on the conference’s second day, “The body of Christ needs to be in unity with each other.  Why we are, and where we are in Christ – God is asking for unity.  If there be one God then we who serve Him needs to be one.”
    
Stevenson stressed, “Spiritual unity isn’t based on doctrine,” which Stevenson compared to the wind.  “The only thing that doctrine does is blow people in different directions. God doesn’t even have a long list of doctoral demands – His demands are simple.
   
“Are we in unity?” she asked.  “No!  Churches are not in unity with each other.  People are not in unity with each other.  Families are not in unity with each other.”  When it comes to our churches, “We rather be divided than (be) united,” preferring instead to have more “little chiefs . . . It is not about us but Him.”
   
The Devil uses our differences to divide us,” says Stevenson.  “We need to fight for unity and not let the Devil use our differences to keep us apart.  We need each other – we need to enter the oneness that Jesus wants us to.  We live in a world to win.  There are souls to win.  We can win anything with Jesus.
  
“We are joined together by God and held together by one another,” concludes Stevenson.  “God is still asking us to be unified with one another . . . and with Christ, the Savior of the World.”
   
Mount Carmel Baptist Church (Waterloo) Pastor Frantz Whitfield spoke from Romans 12:1 at the laymen service that concluded the second day’s evening service.
    
The Rev. Whitfield preached that we haven’t given everything to God.  “All of us have shortchanged God.  God wants all you have – He doesn’t want just a piece of you but all of your living.  He wants your worship, your praise and service.
   
“Worship and church is not for us but for God.  God gets the glory and praise and the honor in this place,” he continues.  “Worship and service ought to make sense.  Whatever you’re doing and you call it service, it’s not enough.  A reasonable service is when you praise God anyhow.  Can you give God praise even when you can’t see why?
   
“Since you got something from God, you should give something to God.  God sent a living sacrifice – Jesus to save us, to heal . . . and raise the dead; to preach good news to the poor,” concludes the pastor.
  
“You and I are asked to be in an eternal race that has no starting block,” preached Rev. Marchelle Hallman, pastor of St. James, Minneapolis during the annual Women in Ministry service which closed the conference. 
    
Titled “Running the Race” (Philippians 3: 12-14), “I’ve had some false starts” in her race, admits Hallman.  “We can be forgiven no matter how many times we fail.  It is important for us that the Spirit is telling us that we are asked to be better than we have been.”   Although we are in a race, “When you get to the finish line . . . God will call you back to reach for someone else,” she concludes.
     
Staying in Elder Reff’s “educated pulpit, educated pew” philosophy, this year’s conference also included several well-informative workshops.
    
“I know people don’t look at Jesus . . . as a CEO,” taught Melvin Tennant (Wayman, Minneapolis) in “Team Leadership in Ministry.”   As he asked everyone in the workshop to briefly share examples of leadership, “We have (other) leadership examples in our lives,” notes Tennant.  He concluded that church work can’t be done alone.
    
“God created us to work and live in teams,” he points out.
    
“We need help with our finances,” says host pastor Rev. Steve Perkins as he introduced Maurice Holloman’s church finances workshop.  He reminded that ministers don’t run the church finances:  “The pastor and the stewards have to work together.  That’s the only way the church can grow and be successful.”
    
Kerry Felder (St. James, Minneapolis), a Neighborhood Organized for Change community organizer urged the church to be more involved in their communities.  She suggests that word-of-mouth is the best way to start a movement.
   
“We have to go out and find them,” continues Felder.  “I am not afraid to go out by myself, but I come back with more.”
    
Responding to Felder’s presentation, “The AME Church has to do a better job in connecting our people” with community concerns, believes the Rev. William Smith, pastor of Lily of the Valley (Apple Valley, Minn.).  St. Peter’s (Minneapolis) Pastor Toussaint Cheatom added, “We were an active people – now we are a reactive people.”  He also points out that the church must work to meet people’s needs, whether they are church members or not.  “People want to know how are you’re going to help me today,” he surmises.
    
Cheatom strongly suggests that no matter how frustrating it can be, “We have to keep doing it.  We got to go to them – they are not going to come to us just because we are the AME Church.”
   
This also was the second combined District Conference and Sunday School Convention.
   
The youth conducted the week’s final worship service.  They sang, danced and spoke.
   
Thirteen-year-old Tarik Cherry (Payne Memorial, Waterloo) gave a brief but inspiring message.  He admitted that he is working on not getting angry too quickly.  Using Isaiah 43:19 – the conference’s overall theme, “This scripture means to me that God will make a way and will work miracles,” explains Cherry.  “I know if God can make a new way for me, He can make one for you, too.”
    
“You did an excellent job,” praised Presiding Elder Reff as he stood beside the young man to offer the invitation to Christian discipleship. 

Finally, the elder predicted before the conference that all who attended “will learn more about who we are and what we believe and why.”   By all accounts, his prediction rang true.

11. LET’S TALK ABOUT TAXES … AND POVERTY

By Bishop Don DiXon Williams

July 17, 2012

If you have been anywhere near a television, newspaper, radio, or computer screen in the past year, you are sure to have heard some of the debates over tax cuts for the middle-class versus wealthy Americans. The discussions have become ever-present in the media as the November presidential election nears. Often absent from these discussions, however, is any mention of programs that support hungry and poor people—namely tax credits for working families.

On July 9, 2012, President Obama urged Congress to extend the Bush-era tax cuts for the middle class and small business owners who make less than $250,000 for another year, also calling on members to allow tax cuts for the wealthiest Americans to expire by the end of the year. During his speech, he reaffirmed his commitment to strengthening the middle class, stating that we need to “widen the circle of opportunity” for the middle class.

Coincidentally, since early 2011, Bread for the World and other organizations have urged Congress and the Obama administration to “create a circle of protection” around programs vital to hungry and poor people in the United States and around the world. Bread has long supported certain tax cuts and credits—such as the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) and the Child Tax Credit (CTC)—as long as hungry and poor people are included.

Bread’s 2012 Offering of Letters includes support for tax credits for working families. A series of tax cuts will expire at the end of 2012, including the EITC and the CTC—two provisions that are critical for low-income working families. The EITC is a refundable tax credit that supplements the wages of low-income workers. In 2010, this credit lifted 5.4 million people out of poverty—including 3 million children. The CTC is available for children under age 17 to families earning at least $3,000, and provides financial support for working families with children. In 2009, the CTC lifted 2.3 million people, including 1.3 million children, out of poverty.

There are currently more than 46 million Americans living below the poverty line—including 10.7 million employed Americans! When times get tough in low-income households, the food budget is usually the first thing families cut. Measures such as these tax credits ensure working families can support themselves.

Particularly in this economy, we understand the importance of continuing the tax cuts for the middle class, but we must also protect programs that effectively address hunger and poverty, such as the EITC, the CTC, and other safety nets. Unfortunately, these programs—and the people they impact—are often left out of the conversation.

No matter which candidate you support in November, we urge you to keep hungry and poor people—and the programs that support them—at the top of your mind. Your voice can make a difference. For more information, please visit www.bread.org/ol.

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

12. NAEP TEMPORARY EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY - TEMPORARY JOB OPPORTUNITIES: ASSESSMENT ADMINISTRATORS:

Attached are short print ad and a long print ad about the temporary NAEP employment opportunity and a long web ad that could be widely circulated. Also attached are the Assessment Administrator job description and a job flyer. 

Temporary Job Opportunities: Assessment Administrators

We are seeking motivated individuals, who are committed to excellence and are experienced in working with primary and secondary school students. Westat is recruiting for the 2013 National Assessment of Educational Progress, also known as NAEP or The Nation’s Report Card, for the National Center for Education Statistics, which is part of the U.S. Department of Education. The position involves conducting assessment sessions with 4th-, 8th-, and 12th-grade students in participating schools across the country. Each session lasts approximately 90 minutes, and involves about 30 students. You will work on a team but will conduct some sessions alone. This opportunity is ideal for retired educators.

Your duties will include:

- Preparing assessment materials and assessment locations,
- Checking student attendance,
- Reading directions aloud to the students from a prepared script,
- Monitoring the sessions,
- Answering student questions using prepared guidelines,
- Collecting completed assessment materials, and
- Preparing completed materials for shipping.

Westat provides complete paid training for all job responsibilities, paid time and mileage reimbursement for local driving to and from schools, weekly paychecks with direct deposit available, and opportunities for advancement based on performance.

Qualified applicants should:

- Be fluent in English (persons speaking fluent English and Spanish are encouraged to apply),
- Be detail-oriented,
- Have the ability to work effectively on a diverse team,
- Be able to work with students in a classroom setting,
- Be willing to submit fingerprints for a required FBI background check,
- Have the ability to lift a box weighing 15 pounds and carry it up the stairs with or without a reasonable accommodation,
- Have a valid (current) driver’s license that is not under suspension and regular access to an insured, reliable vehicle in order to travel to and from schools,
- Be available to work 20 to 30 hours a week, during daytime hours from January 28 to March 8, 2013, and
- Be available to attend a local one-day training between January 2 and January 25, 2013.

This opportunity is a part-time, temporary position with limited benefits. To apply for this position, visit our website at www.westat.com/CAREERS and select "Search Field Data Collection Jobs." Search for your state, find the

NAEP Assessment Administrator position and select the "apply to job" button. For more information e-mail NAEPrecruit@westat.com or call 1-888-237-8036.

Interested applicants are invited to apply.

While we are hiring all across the United States, the specific states that I am responsible for are Alabama, Arkansas, Louisiana and Mississippi.

Linda Rinker
NAEP Field Manager
Home/Office:  501-982-1494
Cell:  501-343-4654
TN #:  423-725-2256
LindaRinker@naepmail.westat.com

13. THE REVEREND TERRI “LYNN STRONG CD - IT WAS HIS HEART:

The Rev. Terri “Lynn Strong” ministers in song as a gospel music artist and writer from Memphis, Tennessee. She is not new to ministry or to the music world. She has been an intercessor since age seven and has been writing and composing gospel songs since she was 12 years old.

The Rev. Terri “Lynn Strong”  has an eclectic style of traditional, contemporary and jazzy gospel music that she has perfected, having sung with her church choir and one of the greatest community choirs, the Memphis Community Singers, under the leadership of Minister David Flagg. It has often been said that jazz is an open-ended music designed for those with open minds; and approaching with such a mindset is the best way to receive her jazzy gospel style. 

The Rev. Strong is a life-long AME and is an Itinerant Elder in the 13th Episcopal District under the leadership of Presiding Elder Linda Martin and Bishop Jeffery N. Leath.

The Rev. Terri “Lynn Strong” hopes the songs of inspiration will travel throughout the world connection.
       
The CD,  “It Was His Heart,” features songs, which will humble hearts; “Audacity of Hope,” which dares one to hope when all hope seems lost; I Believe,” which encourages listeners to see the glass half-full; and of course a traditional hymn of the church, “Only What You Do for Christ Will Last.” This album is sure to touch spirits and offer something that every fan of gospel music will enjoy.

The songs contained on the album, with the exception of a traditional hymn, were written, arranged and produced by the Rev. Strong with help from the Rev. Calvin Davis, an accomplished musician; and James Huffman of Humble Kats Production, who was the recording producer. Each song lifts up Jesus and His love in a unique way to be a blessing to His people by offering a positive message of hope and encouragement.

The Rev. Strong says sales from the album will help further the Living Waters AME Ministries in Memphis, Tennessee where she serves as the planting senior servant. In her own words, the Rev. Strong says, “God inspires me to write positive messages of hope and love and to witness in song for Jesus Christ.”

The Rev. Strong has also recently published two children’s devotionals; “Wee Wisdom” and “Inspiration for Life’s Journey,” which she hopes will help youth study and understand the Word of God. The devotionals can be used in personal study or children’s moments in local Church School, Sunday School Convention, and Vacation Bible School or as ministry gifts.

The album and singles are available for electronic download on www.cdbaby.com;www.amazon.com, and www.Spotify.com; and for sale on her website at www.terristrong.org.

The Rev. Terri “Lynn Strong” can be reached at 901-690-1306 or by email at terristrong3082@att.net and ame@livingwatersame.org. Visit the church website at www.livingwatersame.org and on FaceBook.  The books are available on www.authorhouse.com, www.amazon.com  and www.terristrong.org .

The Rev. Strong has a Master of Divinity degree from Payne Theological Seminary in Wilberforce Ohio and is currently working on her Doctor of Ministry degree at Regent University in Virginia Beach, VA.

14. EIGHTH EPISCOPAL DISTRICT AFRICAN METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH ANNUAL CONFERENCE SCHEDULE:

The Right Reverend Julius Harrison McAllister, Sr., Presiding Prelate
Mother Joan Marla McAllister, Episcopal Supervisor

North Mississippi Annual Conference
August 22-26, 2012
138th Session

Host Church: St. Matthew AME Church
514 Nelson Street
Greenville, Mississippi  38701
Telephone:  (662) 335-4479

Host Pastor: The Reverend Larry Story
Host Presiding Elder: The Reverend Archie Smith
Co-Host Presiding Elder: The Reverend William Hardiman, Jr.
Co-Host Presiding Elder: The Reverend John L. Moore

South Mississippi Annual Conference
September 12-16, 2012
145th Session

Host Church: Zion Chapel AME Church
Conference Venue:  Bonner Campbell Campus, Edwards, Mississippi
621 New Orleans Street
Hattiesburg, Mississippi  39401
Telephone:  (601) 897-0335

Host Pastor: The Reverend Charles Bartley
Host Presiding Elder: The Reverend Joseph Young
Co-Host Presiding Elder: The Reverend George W. Tyler
Co-Host Presiding Elder: The Reverend William Love
Co-Host Presiding Elder: The Reverend Jacob W. Hilton, Jr.

Central North Louisiana Annual Conference
September 26-30, 2012
142nd Session

Host Church:  Bethel AME Church
2700 Jones Avenue
Alexandria, Louisiana  71302
Telephone: (318) 448-0137

Host Pastor:   The Reverend Maurice Wright II
Host Presiding Elder:  The Reverend Lloyd Washington, Jr.
Co-Host Presiding Elder: The Reverend Michele Goodloe
Co-Host Presiding Elder: The Reverend Sylvester Marshall

Louisiana Annual Conference
October 17-21, 2012
155th Session

Host Church:   Mount Olive AME Church
2457 Second Street
Slidell, Louisiana  70458
Telephone: (985) 641-4960

Host Pastor: The Reverend Margaret Simms
Host Presiding Elder: The Reverend John K. Holiday
Co-Host Presiding Elder: The Reverend David Campbell
Co-Host Presiding Elder: The Reverend Otis Lewis

15. THIRTEENTH EPISCOPAL DISTRICT SCHEDULE OF ANNUAL CONFERENCES

The Rt. Rev. Jeffrey N. Leath, Presiding Bishop
Susan J. Leath, M.D., Episcopal Supervisor


The Kentucky Annual Conference
145th Session
August 22-25, 2012

St. John A.M.E. Church
210 West Clinton St
Frankfort, Kentucky 40601
502.223.5752
(First United Methodist Church, 211 Washington Street, 502-227-7430)

The Rev. Jermaine L. Wilson
Host Pastor
The Rev. Troy I. Thomas
Host Presiding Elder

The West Kentucky Annual Conference
132nd Session
September 12-15, 2012

Burks Chapel A.M.E. Church
635 Ohio Street
Paducah, KY  42003
270.442.5565

The Rev. Frank Price
Host Pastor
The Rev. Ralph E. Johnson
Host Presiding Elder

The East Tennessee Annual Conference
112th Session
September 26-29, 2012

Bethel A.M.E. Church
3811 Boyds Bridge Pike
Knoxville, TN   37914
856.522.6396

The Rev. Johnny R. Watson, Sr.
Host Pastor
The Rev. Kenneth Hill, Ph.D.
Host Presiding Elder

The West Tennessee Annual Conference
138th Session
October 10-13, 2012

Brown Chapel A.M.E. Church
801 East College Street
Union, TN
(Memphis Marriott East, 2629 Thousand Oaks Blvd., Memphis, TN)

The Rev. Clay A. Holliday, Sr.
Host Pastor
The Rev. C. Robert Finch
Host Presiding Elder

The Tennessee Annual Conference
144th  Session
October 24-27, 2012

St. John A.M.E. Church
1822 Formosa St
Nashville, TN 37208
615.320.1026

The Rev. W. Antoni Sinkfield
Host Pastor
The Rev. Robert E. Keesee
Host Presiding Elder

The 13th Episcopal District Planning Meeting
November 2-3, 2012

Venue: TBD
Lexington, KY

The Rev. Troy I. Thomas
Host Presiding Elder

16. Fifteenth Episcopal District Schedule of annual conferences:

Bishop David R. Daniels, Presiding Prelate
Mrs. Irene Moifoi Daniels, Episcopal Supervisor

August 30–September 2, 2012
Namibia Annual Conference
August 29, 2012
WMS Annual Convention

St. Peter’s A.M.E. Church
Maltahohe
The Rev. Johannes J. Schmidt, Host Pastor
The Rev. Penias Topnaar, Host P.E.

September 6-9, 2012
Angola Annual Conference
September 5, 2012
WMS Annual Convention

Job A.M.E. Church
Luanda
The Rev. C. Martins, Host Pastor
The Rev. Pereira Jeremias, Host P.E.

September 13-16, 2012
Queenstown Annual Conference
September 12, 2012
WMS Annual Convention

St. Mary’s A.M.E. Church
Mthatha
The Rev. M.T. Ndamane, Host Pastor
The Rev. Harris Sishuba, Host P.E.

September 20-23, 2012
Kalahari Annual Conference
September 19, 2012
WMS Annual Convention

Gabashane Chapel A.M.E. Church
Vryburg
The Rev. M.W. Bikwa, Host Pastor
The Rev. T.J. Mogadile, Host P.E.

November 1-4, 2012
Eastern Cape Annual Conference
October 31, 2012
WMS Annual Convention

T.C. Tyantsi Memorial A.M.E. Church
Dimbaza
The Rev. Loyiso L. Vass, Host Pastor and Host P.E.

November 8-11, 2012
Cape Annual Conference
November 7, 2012
WMS Annual Convention

St. Paul A.M.E. Church
Malmesbury
The Rev. Joey Volmink, Host Pastor
The Rev. Willem Burger, Host P.E.

November 22-24, 2012
Planning Meeting

Vinton Anderson A.M.E. Church
Eerste River
The Rev. William Leoglie, Host Pastor
The Rev. Samuel Engelbrecht, Host P.E.

17. MEDITATION BASED ON I CORINTHIANS 1:18-25:

*The Rev. Dr. Joseph A. Darby

Modern technology sometimes gives new meaning to old words.  When I was a child, “Spam” was an unusual meat product that would turn up on the dinner table with canned green peas when my mother was pinching pennies.  Today, “spam” is the name given to emails with unusual and inviting offers and requests - some of which seem to come from trusted sources.

One of the “spam” messages I received this week was a humorous reminder of human nature.  The email, from a “Message Center” with a United Kingdom email address, informed me that “Morris Brown A.m.e. Church” had issued me a $1,000 VISA gift card and instructed me to go to a website listed in the email to claim my card and have it sent to me.  Needless to say, I deleted it after I laughed at it.  Morris Brown AME Church doesn’t issue VISA gift cards and if we did, I think I’d be aware that we do!

Getting “something for nothing” is an element in human nature and a tempting but seldom realized goal.  Whether it’s a totally bogus offer like the email I received, a fantastic deal from a merchant that ultimately has expensive strings attached, or a billboard showing the lottery “jackpot” that you might win if you spend a few bucks on a one in a million chance, we seldom get something for nothing.

What’s amazing is that some of those who will immediately go after “something for nothing” have problems trusting in the Lord because they need “proof” that God is real.  That “proof” is evident when we arise safe and well each morning, when we make it through life’s close-calls, when we realize that our blessings far outweigh our burdens and when we get caught up in troubling situations - sometimes of our own making - but survive and thrive anyway.

Take the time in a world of false and disappointing offers of “something for nothing” to trust in and stay in touch with the God who knows what we need before we think to ask for it.  Doing so leads us to real peace of mind, real abundance in life and a true assurance that God sees, knows and cares for us.  That’s the assurance that led one modern writer to say, “His love for me is like pure gold, yes, God is real for I can feel him in my soul.”

Join us on the Fifth Sunday in July for Church School at 8:45 a.m. and for Worship at 10 a.m.  The Women’s Missionary Society will lead worship, the “Take Five” Choir will offer praise and Morris Brown’s own Barbara Kelley-Duncan, Chief Executive Officer of the Carolina Youth Development Center will deliver the message.

If you are in the Charleston, South Carolina area this weekend, we invite you to worship with us.

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

18. CLERGY FAMILY CONGRATULATORY ANNOUNCEMENT:

- The Rev. Godfrey Mitchell of Trinidad and Tobago promoted to Chief Staff Officer

The Rev. Godfrey Mitchell, Pastor of Bethesda AME Church, Chaguanas, Trinidad and Tobago, has been promoted to Chief Staff Officer of the Auxiliary Fire Service of Trinidad and Tobago. In this capacity he will be the administrator of all the fire officers in the Auxiliary Fire Service for the entire country.

The Rev. Mitchell has been a fireman for the last 42 years, having joined the Auxiliary Fire Service of Trinidad and Tobago in January 1970. The Rev Mitchell has been an Itinerant Elder in the AME Church since 1992 and has pastored several churches including Sealey Memorial in Barbados, McKenzie, Christ and Metropolitan in Trinidad.

He is currently the pastor of Bethesda AME Church in Chaguanas, Trinidad and Tobago, Windward Islands Conference.

Congratulatory responses can be emailed to: gem8350@live.com.

19. FORMER GENERAL OFFICER'S FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

We sadly announce the transition of Henderson S. Davis, Jr., son of the late Dr. Henderson S. Davis, former Historiographer of the African Methodist Episcopal Church, and Mrs. Ruth Davis. Henderson was a gifted actor, designer, radio personality hosting his own show, singer, and in recent years worked with feeding the homeless in Evansville, Indiana. He leaves three sisters to celebrate his life: Vinita Ruth Davis, Dr. Martha Davis, and Lydia Davis Eady.

The Memorial Service will be Saturday, July 28, 2012 at 1:00 p.m.:

Bethel AME Church,
301 North Vine Street
Plainfield, IN. 46168

The Rev. Tess Brooks, Pastor

Expressions may be sent to:

Mrs. Lydia Davis Eady at mauilde@yahoo.com

Dr. Martha Davis at davis.mimi63@gmail.com 

20. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

We regret to announce the passing of the Rev. Peola Scott, who served on the ministerial staff member at St. Philip Monumental AME Church, Savannah, GA, where the Rev. George Moore, Jr. is the pastor. The Rev. Scott is the mother of Sister Renee Scott Smith, 1st Lady and Mother in Law of the Rev. James Smith, pastor at St. Paul AME Church, Versailles, Kentucky. Homegoing services for the Rev. Scott will be on Saturday, July 28, 2012 at 11 a.m.

Celebration Service will be at:

St. Phillip Monumental AME Church
1112 Jefferson Street
Savannah, GA 31401
Rev. George Moore, Jr. - Eulogist

Entrusted to:

Sidney Jones & Campbell Funeral Home
124 W. Park Avenue
Savannah, GA 31401
912-234-7226

Family contact:

Mrs. Renee Scott Smith
104 Brampton Pike
Versailles, KY 40383


21. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

We regret to inform you of the passing of Brother Kimberly Pendleton, the son of the Reverend MacArthur Pendleton, pastor of Bethel AME Church, Shelbyville, Kentucky.

Services for Brother Pendleton will be held:

Saturday, July 28, 2012
New Life Church of Faith
1419 N Bowman Avenue
Danville, IL 61832

10:00 a.m. -Visitation
11:00 a.m. Celebration of Life

Services Entrusted to:

Leek & Sons Funeral Home
304 East Williams St
Danville, IL 61832
217-442-2667

Condolences may be sent to:

The Reverend MacArthur Pendleton
1406 Basswood Court
Jeffersonville, IN 47130

22. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

We regret to inform you of the passing of Sister Johnnie Mae Ferrill, the sister of the Reverend Truman (The Rev. Bettie) Tolefree, pastor of Bethel AME Church, Bigelow, Arkansas.

Services for Sister Johnnie Mae Ferrill will be held Saturday, July 28, 2012:

Family Hour - 9:30 a.m. -11:00 a.m.
The Northwest Funeral Chapel Inc.
6630 West Hampton Avenue
Milwaukee, WI. 53218
Phone: (414) 462-6020

Memorial Service – 12 p.m.  - 1 p.m.
Kern Park Hall of Jehovah Witness
5747 No. 29th Street
Milwaukee, WI. 53209

Condolences maybe sent to:

The Rev. Truman and the Rev. Bettie A. Tolefree
2924 Shadow Creek Dr
Little Rock, AR 72212
Phone: (501) 353-2913

23. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICES FROM THE 15TH EPISCOPAL DISTRICT:

It is with sadness that we share the passing on of three stalwarts within the 15th Episcopal District:

(1) The Rev. Niklaas Christians, superannuated Presiding Elder of the Namibia Annual Conference who passed on July 16th.

Family contact/condolences can be sent to:

Brother Frederick Sylvester:  FrederickSylvester@standardbank.co.za

(2) Mother Anna De Bruyn, beloved mother of the Rev. Elliot De Bruyn of Ming Chapel, Saldanha in the Cape Annual Conference.

Contact detail: The Rev. Elliot De Bruyn: elliotd@saldanhabay.co.za

(3) Brother Karl Martin, beloved steward and trustee of Ebenezer Chapel Retreat.

We solicit your prayers for the families concerned, praying that you will do everything within your might to lend support where applicable.

24. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

We are saddened to announce the passing of Mr. William "Mike" Lee on Monday, July 16th, 2012. Mr. Lee was the brother of the Rev. Mae H. Smith, pastor of Mt. Olive AME Church, Mineral Wells, Texas, and (Northwest Texas Conference-Greater Fort Worth District).

Homegoing Celebration was held Saturday, July 21, 2012 at Greater Christ Temple Apostolic Church in Fort Wayne, Indiana.

Condolences may be sent to:

The Rev. Mae H. Smith
P.O. Box 8253
Fort Worth, Texas 76124
Telephone: 817- 966-8295

25. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

We regret to announce the passing of Bro. Wesley Sams, Sr. on July 11, 2012.  Brother Sams was the husband of the Rev. Gloria Cash-Sams, pastor of Wesley Chapel AME Church in Clute, Texas, (Texas Conference-South Houston District).

The Homegoing Celebration was held on Saturday, July 21, 2012 at Greater Bell Zion Baptist Church in Texas City, Texas

Condolences may be sent to:

The Rev. Gloria Cash-Sams
7310 Cardinal Circle
Texas City, Texas 77591
Telephone: (409) 771-9433
Email: glojcash@aol.com

26. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

We announce with regret the passing of Sister Joy Morgan on June 27, 2012.  Sister Morgan was the wife of the Rev. George Morgan, Sr., pastor of Allen Chapel AME Church in Rockdale, Texas, (Northwest Texas Conference-Paul Quinn District).

Sister Joy Morgan's Homegoing Celebration was at 10:00 A.M.; Friday, July 6, 2012 at Greater Vision Community Church in Killeen, Texas - Rev. Dr. David G. Reynolds, Pastor.

Condolences may be sent to:

The Rev. George Morgan, Sr.
2121 Diana Loop
Harker Heights, Texas 76548
Email: revgmorgan@earthlink.net

27. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

We regret to announce the passing of Deacon Edward Wright, the father of the Rev. E. Jean Bonds, pastor at Mt. Zion AMEC in Riverton, NJ (New Jersey Conference, Camden/Trenton District). The following information has been provided regarding funeral arrangements.

Sunday, July 15, 2012 - Viewing, 5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

Monday, July 16, 2012 - Homegoing Service, 10:00 a.m.

Bethel AME Church
241 Hilton Avenue
Vauxhall, NJ 07088

Phone: 908-964-1282
Fax: 908-964-8183

The Rev. Dennis Hughes, Pastor

The Rev. E. Childress, Eulogist
New Beginnings Faith Fellowship, Newark, NJ

Expressions of Sympathy can be sent to:

The Rev. E. Jean Bonds
208 Penn Street
Riverton, NJ 08077

28. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

We regret to announce the passing of Deacon Ulysis Grant Wooten, the father of Mrs. Patricia Jones and father-in-law of the Rev. Melvin Jones, pastor at Trinity AME Church in Cinnaminson, NJ (New Jersey Conference, Camden/Trenton District).

The following information has been provided regarding funeral arrangements.

Homegoing Service, Saturday, July 14, 2012 at 2:00 p.m.

Isle of Hope Baptist Church
Uvalde, Georgia

Professional Care entrusted to:

Smalleys Funerals
610 MLK Ave.
Vidalia, GA 30474
Phone: 912-537-9800
Fax: 912-538-8119

Expression of sympathy can be sent to:

The Rev. & Mrs. Melvin Jones
307 N. Forklanding Road
Cinnaminson, NJ 08077

29. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

We regret to announce the passing of Mrs. Marilyn Auguste, the mother of the Rev. Cheryl Auguste, who serves on the ministerial staff at Bridge Street AMEC in Brooklyn, New York and Mt. Pisgah AMEC in Princeton, New Jersey.

The following information has been provided regarding funeral arrangements.

Homegoing Service, Friday, July 13, 2012 

Viewing - 10:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.
Funeral - 11:30 a.m.

A. S. Cole Funeral Home
22 North Main Street
Cranbury, NJ 08512
Phone: 609-395-0770
Fax: 609-587-6343

Expressions of Sympathy can be sent to:

The Rev. Marilyn Auguste

Or

Bridge Street A.M.E. Church
277 Stuyvesant Ave.
Brooklyn, NY 11221
Phone: 718-452-3936
Fax: 718-453-4134

30. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

We regret to announce the passing of the Rev. Arnold T. Evans, the pastor of First AME Church in Sharon Hill, PA (Philadelphia Conference, West/Mainline District).

The following information has been provided regarding funeral arrangements.

The Homegoing Service was held on Friday, July 20, 2012 at St. Paul AME Church in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania where the Rev. Eugene V. McDuffy is the pastor. The Rev. Charles H. Lett was the eulogist
Presiding Elder, Philadelphia Conference, West/Mainline District

Expression of sympathy can be sent to:

Mrs. Fay N. Evans
136 Merion Way
Hainesport, NJ 08036

31. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

We are saddened to announce the passing of the Rev. Ronald Woods of Perris, California. The Rev. Woods retired last year as pastor of Quinn AME Church in Moreno Valley, California.

The funeral was held on Wednesday, July 18, 2012 at First AME Church in Pasadena, California.

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

Ora L. Easley, Administrator
AMEC Clergy Family Information Center
Phone: (615) 837-9736 (H)
Phone: (615) 833-6936 (O)
Cell: (615) 403-7751





33. CONDOLENCES TO THE BEREAVED FROM THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER:

The Chair of the Commission on Publications, the Right Reverend Richard Franklin Norris; the Publisher, the Reverend Dr. Johnny Barbour and the Editor of The Christian Recorder, the Reverend Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III offer our condolences and prayers to those who have lost loved ones. We pray that the peace of Christ will be with you during this time of your bereavement.


Did someone you know pass this copy of The Christian Recorder to you? Get your own copy HERE



*You have received this message because you are subscribed to The Christian Recorder Online