9/13/2012

THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER ONLINE ENGLISH EDITION (9/13/12)



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 –ANOTHER CHALLENGE - WE WILL DEAL WITH IT:

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

When it rains, it pours!   Technology is great – when if functions as it should, but when a glitch surfaces, technology can be frustrating.

A week ago, The Christian Recorder Online experienced a technical glitch that involved its mailing list, which meant TCR News Breaks and TCR Breaking News could not be sent to subscribers.  The problem also prevented people from subscribing to The Christian Recorder Online. Situations like that are frustrating for those who manage online accounts.

What happened?

Simply stated, The Christian Recorder automatic-sending of TCR subscriber email list experienced problems sending TCR News Breaks and TCR Breaking News. The problem began on or about September 5, 2012.

The temporary fix

The current mail client is still broken, but I am working on it!
We have recovered and have re-formatted the subscription list.  It took several days of to figure out how to best solve the issue and the best strategy to re-input the names of all TCR subscribers. It was a time-consuming project recovering and reformatting the large list of subscribers.  Online subscription list managers never want to experience that problem; it’s an online subscription list manager’s worst nightmare.  One loses sleep over these kinds of issues; and I lost sleep.

“Prayer Changes Things”

After losing sleep, I decided to practice what I preach.  I took a deep breath, prayed and said, “Lord, I am not going to worry about this; everything is in Your Hands, I turn this situation over to you; and besides, I have a backup plan. In the Name of Jesus, I now turn this problem loose. Amen.  I immediately felt better and knew that I had to begin working to resolve the issue, not worry about it.

Where we are now

We have manually re-inputted the email addresses of all TCR subscribers.  Re-formatting the names of all the subscribers was a time-consuming project, but it allows me to begin manually emailing The Christian Recorder Online until I can get a permanent fix and put a more secure system in place so that this does not happen again.

Please be assured that The Christian Recorder Online will get back online as quickly as possible. Strategies are being implemented to insure this problem does not happen again. So, I ask you to be patient.

A positive moral story in all of this…

When we started The Christian Recorder Online in 2004 and we were a relatively small operation, things flowed smoothly.  We were on the cutting edge of technology.

We grew and grew and suddenly, because of the size of our list, our posts began to be scrutinized as spam and we faced different challenges. The moral of the story: When you grow, you must face the challenges that come with growth. As an example, when kids grow, they cannot continue to wear the same clothing throughout their growing years. Parents have to buy clothes that fit their growing children. 

I think The Christian Recorder failed to keep technologically abreast of what was needed as we grew and expanded. Things generally worked and we let them work; when we should have been proactive.  I suspect that happens in some of our churches too, but that’s another editorial. Getting back to The Christian Recorder Online, we need to be ever vigilant and keep abreast of the changes in technology; and we will do that; beginning immediately. You will see some changes.

For the very short term

I will manually post The Christian Recorder Online and TCR Breaking News and TCR News Breaks until we can get the subscriber names in the mailing list. It is time-intensive, but I will do it.

I have one more thought

I checked with Mrs. Ora Easley about how best to manually send posts and after speaking with her, I have a new appreciation for the Herculean work she does as the Administrator for the AMEC Clergy Family Information Center. She has to email her messages in batches because of the size of her mailing list. I suspect that it takes a couple of hours just to mail one posting and she has to converse back and forth to get correct spelling of names, addresses, and other pertinent information from people who are grieving and whose minds are not clearly focused.  

I can appreciate her work more clearly and I want to say, Thank you, Mrs. Easley for the ministry you provide to the African Methodist Episcopal Church.”

This is a short transition period

Instead of “one-click send” of posts, we will have to send each message out in batches not exceed a certain number of addressees. If you are reading this message, that is how you have received this message and I have to do the same with all of the persons on the mailing list.

Change is coming and we are working to upgrade and make The Christian Recorder Online more efficient.

I have one more thought

I hope that I am not paranoid, but I have noticed that we have an uptick in technical issues each time after I deal in an editorial about unscrupulous people who access email accounts and the need to be careful about spam. It has crossed my mind before and it did this time. I was wondering if some of the mischief we have been experiencing has come from within our Zion. 
Nah, that can’t be…just forget I wrote that; that’s a crazy thought!

Editor’s Note: The next editorial - The Discipline is a resource for every adult member of the African Methodist Episcopal Church should possess and read.      

2. A SUPERB RESOURCE IF YOU ARE INTERESTED IN THE GENEALOGICAL HISTORY OF YOUR FAMILY:



3. AN EXCELLENT RESOURCE IF YOU ARE COPING WITH LONG TERM CARE ISSUES:

I read a nice book entitled Coping with My Mother’s Stroke – A Daughter’s Story written by the Rev. Berlinda A. Hart Love in which she shares her joys, struggles and challenges of being, along with her three siblings, a caregiver for her aging parents. The book gives insight in dealing with the various agencies that caregivers interact.  It’s an information-packed book that’s well-written and easy to read.  I recommend it as a superb resource, not only for those persons who are serving, or are on the verge of serving as caregivers, but for pastor and other professionals who deal with the aging population.  Go to www.Xlibris.com for more information about ordering the book.

CHS III+

4. THE 60TH WEDDING ANNIVERSARY AND WISHING WELL RECEPTION - BISHOP AND MRS. VINTON R. ANDERSON

Episcopal Invitation from Bishop and Mrs. T. Larry Kirkland to help celebrate the 60th Wedding Anniversary Celebration /  Wishing Well Reception for Bishop and Mrs. Vinton R. Anderson
 
Congratulations and well wishes can be sent to:

Bishop and Mrs. Vinton Randolph Anderson
22 West Sherwood Drive
St. Louis, MO 63114   

Or


September 12, 2012

Church of Allen,

5. TODAY (SEPTEMBER 13, 2012) WE ARE 55 DAYS AWAY FROM ELECTION DAY 2012:

Today, tell our brothers & sisters who have been labeled “Ex-Felons” about their right to vote.  The legal ability of people with felony convictions to vote varies from state to state.  THEY must not be disenfranchised. Check to be sure and register them now.

If you live in the states of Alaska, Arkansas, Georgia, Idaho, Iowa, Kansas, Louisiana, Maryland, Minnesota, Missouri, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Texas, West Virginia, or Wisconsin…incarcerated - on parole - on probation. People with felony convictions may vote upon completion of all supervised release!

If you live in the states of California, Colorado, Connecticut, New York or South Dakota…incarcerated - on parole - People with felony convictions may vote upon completion of parole!

If you live in Maine or Vermont... unrestricted - People with felony convictions may vote from prison!

Today, identify and contact at least 10 Ex-Felons …. Reminding them of the restored precious gift – the right to vote.  For more information AND details go to www.AME-SAC.com – Operation EMR Guide.

Make Operation E.M.R. Guide your daily reading – share it with your church members, neighbors, co-workers, family, and friends.  Your mission today, and every day until November 6th, is to Educate, Mobilize and Register voters.

EBlast our Countdown Action Alerts. Create YOUR Election Countdown Network for this election season.  Tweet too!  Post on face book!  It is your right to “sit this one out” and do nothing, but we urge you to do everything to make sure that every eligible voters Votes on Tuesday, November 6th.

Act now!  Make a difference!  Let us know what you are doing…. And how we can help!!

6. AME-INDIA PRAYER LETTER: 

August/September 2012

Dear Praying Friends,

Greetings to all of you in the precious name of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. AME-India is grateful to you for your valuable prayers. We would like to share with you how the Lord has been faithfully answering your prayers and blessing the ministry of AME-India. The Lord has been adding souls and doing so many miracles too strength the ministry here. Following are some snippets from the fields where our Pastors are labouring.

This is an urgent prayer request from Pastor SR, who serves among the fishing community in the state of Tamilnadu, despite stiff opposition. Recently his church members were beaten up, and their belongings were destroyed. Their church was destroyed, and in the midst of all this, one of the church members who were an elderly person died, when he was pushed harshly by one of the attackers. Pastor SR is unable to conduct any worship service in this village. He just visits the houses of his members separately and prays for them. The administration is in support of the villagers, not the afflicted. Please pray for them.

Pastor AJ reports that a lady named Buchamma from the Hindu high caste came to know the Lord. Please pray for her protection - her faith as well as her life. Two women from the Hindu high caste have experienced healing as a result of their faith, Govindamma was healed from cracked heals and Kasthuri was healed from a fractured shoulder. Please pray that they may have the courage to boldly accept Jesus as their Saviour. A new prayer cell has been started at Adivikuthoor; please pay that more people will be added to it.

Pastor JV tells us of two Hindu sisters who were orphaned and their family had left behind a huge debt for them to clear. Pastor has been counseling them to believe in Jesus, and give him a chance to straighten their lives. Please pray that God would redeem them both from sins as well add their debts.

Pastor JW tells us of a Hindu couple Devi and her husband, who were living in abject poverty, they heard the gospel and accepted Jesus as their personal Saviour, the Lord not only saved them from sin, but also from their poverty. Pastor is building a new church in a village named Kannikapuram, a tribal village. This will be the first church in this village. The few families, who have come to the knowledge of salvation, are under threat from the high caste Hindus. Please pray that God would give the Christians, faith, courage and perseverance to stand firm in the Lord. Prayers are also requested for Ponamma, who is suffering from tuberculosis.

Pastor DW tells us of a Hindu high caste lady by name Shanti who was deserted by her husband, who also left behind a huge debt for her to clear. Apart from the loneliness and the debt, she also has to care for her son and daughter. She heard the gospel and came to know the Lord. Prior to her conversion her two attempts for a Kuwaiti visa, for a job employment was rejected, but after her salvation, she prayed and applied for visa by faith, and God honoured her faith. Please pray that even in that foreign country she may grow strong in the Lord and grow in her faith. Pastor requests prayers for the Gattu village where she is serving, they need a place to worship in this village.

Pastor BN tells us of a couple, Joshua and Angel who already have three children and had done the family planning operation, but suddenly doctor told them that Angel was pregnant again, but after prayer God protected them from unwanted complications. It was a miracle that strengthened their faith.

Pastor LAB tells us of a man named Babu who had been suffering from stomach ache since three years, the doctors told him he had a tumour. Through tract ministry he came to the church, after prayer he was completely healed of the stomachache, the tumour was not to be seen in him. He accepted Jesus as his personal Saviour and is regularly coming to the church.

Pastor DR shares with us of a Hindu man named Subramaniam who had a second stroke, the doctors recommended him to undergo treatment, but God healed him through prayers. He is now saved and comes to the church.

Pastor KR shares of a lady named Beulah who is a Hindu convert, she was suffering for sometime, from severe pain in the leg, the church prayed for her and God healed her. This was a miracle that was witnessed by her family who were still Hindus, but as a result of this the whole family has accepted Jesus as their personal Saviour.

Pastor Y shares with us about a Hindu man named Rama who was suffering from Dengue fever. The church prayed for him, he was healed and now he has accepted Jesus as his personal Saviour.

Pastor VD shares about a Hindu lady named Subamma who had been suffering from stomach ache for 2 years. Pastor VD prayed for her and shared the gospel with her; she put her faith in Jesus and has been healed from her suffering.

The Rev. S&A share about a Catholic lady named Dani who had been married for three years without any issues and last year, she was led to them by her friend. They counseled her and told her some step that she should take. She obeyed and believed in God, gave up worshiping idols. She conceived and last week she gave birth to a baby girl. We praise God for this miracle. Another lady from the prayer cell, named Jacquline testified that she had been an ardent worshiper of St. Mary. For the last 25 years she has been visiting a Catholic shrine, every year by walking in bare feet for almost 30 kilometres. After all the teaching she has been getting in the prayer cell, this year she has firmly decided to stop worshiping idol. She has experienced a kind of peace that she had never experienced in the last 25 years. Please pray that she may continue to grow in her faith in Jesus the Saviour.

Pastor Peter Morris, built a new baptismal tank in his church which is still under construction and last week 15 new converts from Hinduism were baptised in the new baptismal, despite stiff opposition from their family members. Please pray that God would reward them for their courage by saving their family members.

We praise God for Pastor Prakash Robert who found his life partner in Getsial and entered into holy matrimony on 20th August.

Praise the Lord for blessing Pastor John Ravichandran and his spouse with a healthy boy baby last week. Both the mother and child are doing fine.

Please pray for the following Pastors who are building their own churches, Pastor Peter Morris, Pastor John Ravichandran, Pastor Paul Vinoth, Pastor Melchizedek and Pastor Samuel Murugavel. They need resources and grace from God to complete the mission entrusted to them.

Once again we as a church thank you all for your fervent prayers and support. Let us continue to hold each other in prayers for the floury of God's kingdom.

Submitted by the Rev. Sarah & the Rev. Abraham Peddiny
AME-India

7. CHURCH WORLD SERVICE DEVELOPMENT AND HUMANITARIAN ASSISTANCE PROGRAM:

Emergency Appeal:
Hurricane Isaac and Late Summer Storms 2012

Appeal # 627-V
CWS Appeal Goal: $100,000

September 5, 2012

Situation: Hurricane Isaac has left heavy damage behind as it crossed the states of Florida, Mississippi, Louisiana, Alabama and Texas. While it had only Category One winds, Isaac was a large and wide ranging storm with significant storm surge and extremely heavy rainfall. The remaining moisture from the storm continues to cause intense rainfall in much of the eastern United States.

The storm has been blamed for eight deaths: six in Louisiana and two in Mississippi. At the peak of the storm well over 1 million homes were left without power. Work continues to restore power to more than 100,000 customers still without electricity.  Some tornadoes from the storm were also reported; damage, if any, from those tornadoes is still not known.

Very little information is yet available about the numbers of homes damaged and destroyed. A very early estimate indicates the cost of the storm will be more than $2 billion. The number of people sheltered peaked at approximately 9,000 survivors. Six hundred eighty four people are still in shelters in Louisiana and Mississippi. Many thousands more were sheltered with friends, family and in motels. Many have yet to return to their homes. Mass feeding operations continue to operate in the affected states.

Moderate to major flooding occurred from southeastern Louisiana to the western Florida panhandle.

Damage assessments are underway in Florida, Mississippi, Alabama and Louisiana:

Florida: The most significant damage in the Sunshine State is in Palm Beach County and in Indian River County.

Louisiana: All 64 Parishes in the state have declared a state of emergency. Severe flooding occurred in Plaquemines Parish when an 18-mile stretch of levee was overtopped. Severe flooding occurred in Slidell due to heavy storm surge off of Lake Pontchartrain. Heavy damage also occurred in St John the Baptist Parish and Tammany Parish.  Very preliminary assessments indicate at least 13,000 homes are damaged across Louisiana.

Mississippi: Flooding is widespread across the state, caused by flooding from the heavy rainfall as Isaac moved slowly northward. Counties impacted include Hancock, Harrison, Jackson, Pearl River, Amite, Lincoln, Marion, and Pearl River.

Alabama:  Alabama did not initially experience as much damage as other states. Alabama residents are now experiencing heavy rains from the moisture laden air left behind by Isaac. 

CWS Response: CWS Disaster Response Specialists are working with state, regional and local Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster, or VOADs, the Federal Emergency Management Agency, FEMA, and CWS-member denominations and other agencies to determine where material goods are needed.

CWS is also working to determine where long-term recovery committees need financial assistance and training and where CWS denominations can help. CWS will provide material resources, including blankets, hygiene kits and clean-up buckets, school kits, baby kits and blankets as requested.

CWS also will assist communities in developing long-term recovery plans, which will lead to technical and financial support, as possible.

CWS Emergency Response Specialists are actively working with communities in Florida, Louisiana and Mississippi to answer requests for material goods. The CWS Emergency Response Specialist working with the organizations in Florida is Joann Hale. Email: jhale123@alo.com.

The specialist for the Gulf Coast states is Sandra Kennedy-Owes. Email: skowes@churchworldservice.org  

In addition, CWS-member communions and affiliated organizations are in place in the affected states and are assisting hurricane survivors. Adventist Community Services is working with emergency managers to assist with donations management and to operate collection centers, multi-agency warehouses, and distribution centers.

Among the responses among CWS-member denominations:

++ Brethren Disaster Ministries is providing children disaster services volunteers. Brethren personnel continue to distribute blankets, clothing packs and personal care kits.

++ The Christian Reformed World Relief Committee has experts in place to assess needs and to develop long term plans for home repair and rebuild.

++ Lutheran Disaster Response is in contact with local affiliates and is making preparations for volunteer deployment.

++ Presbyterian Disaster Assistance is operating a control center and is positioning goods.

++ The United Methodist Committee on Relief is supplying clean up materials, hygiene kits and tarps as well as providing debris removal.

++ The Mennonite Disaster Service has personnel on the ground in the threatened states.

In addition, the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America; Episcopal Relief & Development; the United Church of Christ; the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) and International Orthodox Christian Charities have their people on standby and will respond when and where needed. 

Services that are likely to be provided include debris removal, warehousing and distribution of supplies, emotional and spiritual care, providing personnel for feeding and sheltering operations and volunteer management. When the initial response phase ends CWS and its member communions will assist with the long-term recovery of the communities and the many activities that will be required to rebuild homes, lives and communities.

Budget Goal is $100,000. Funds will be used for processing and shipping material goods, for long-term recovery committee start-up grants and for long term recovery committee training activities.

Note: This appeal will be updated as more information becomes available and as the response expands, if needed.

How to Help: Contributions to support CWS emergency response efforts may be sent to your denomination or to Church World Service, P.O. Box 968, Elkhart, IN 46515. Attn: HURRICANE ISAAC AND LATE SUMMER STORMS 2012, APPEAL # 627-V

Concerning Clean Up Buckets:  CWS thanks its member communions for the efforts to help restock our warehouses with material goods, such as CWS Clean up Buckets, Hygiene Kits, Baby Kits and School Kits.  Many people in need will benefit from these resources.  However, the response to Hurricane Isaac will rapidly deplete our supplies, especially of CWS Clean Up Buckets. All efforts to replenish our supplies for future emergencies are as always, greatly appreciated. Information on Cleanup Buckets is available at http://bit.ly/iS7NI6.

During disasters such as this, now is the time to remember that the most important humanitarian donation that an individual can make is cash.  There are already reports of heaps of used clothing piling up. Clothing and other materials that do little to restore the dignity of survivors.  Remember, financial help is best. If you do have supplies that may be of help contact a CWS Emergency Response Specialist to see if the materials can be used and where.

For further information about disasters to which Church World Service is responding please visit www.churchworldservice.org or call the CWS Hotline, (800) 297-1516.

CWS Development and Humanitarian Assistance Program/CWS New York office: (212) 870-3151

Program Director: Donna Derr at dderr@churchworldservice.org 

Associate Director, Domestic Emergency Response: Barry Shade at bshade@churchworldservice.org 

*Submitted by the Rev. Dr. George F. Flowers, Executive Director of Global Witness and Ministry

8. POVERTY IN THE UNITED STATES:

*Submitted by Mrs. Jackie Dupont Walker

The African Methodist Episcopal Church believes that the United States must make the alarming increase in poverty, among its most important priorities. In fact it should be our number one priority. The sharp increase in poverty, in the wealthiest nation in the world is both shameful and intolerable. With the national unemployment rate over 8% the nation is obsessed with finding and creating jobs, and in the midst of our national elections both candidates are seeking to respond to the question of the more than 23 million unemployed, who ask “where are the jobs?” The recession has not only caused many people to lose their jobs, it has increased the number of poor families and people, especially children in our nation. But we must not allow the recession to mislead us into believing that the recession is the primary cause of increased poverty in America, for while poverty has increased during the recession, poverty was also increasing before the recession. A decade before the recession, while the nation’s economy was booming poverty was on the rise. The gap between the middle class and the poor was widening and more and more people and families were falling out of the middle class. This is especially true among African Americans and other minorities.

The people of God, regardless of political party or affiliation, or independents must raise our voices and call upon our political leaders to face and address the issue of poverty, and do it now. Leadership demands it, and the hurt and suffering of the poor, especially children, requires it.

While the increase in poverty across the nation is frightening, it is a crisis for African Americans and other minorities. The word crisis alone does not adequately describe how bad it is. The situation facing children alone ought to move us to action. There is now empirical evidence that a child born poor will die poor. Today in the United States one (1) in every three (3) African American children lives in poverty. Additionally, 41% of African American youth are unemployed.

But the crisis of poverty is not just among children, it is among their parents and grandparents. Consider the devastating impact poverty is having on seniors. Again, look at African American seniors. Thirty three percent (33%) of African Americans over age 65 live in poverty.

The United States can no longer ignore the reality and consequences of poverty. It is prevalent among every race and age group in the United States. The middle class is becoming extinct in this nation and it is pitting Americans against each other.

The African Methodist Episcopal Church joins with other faith partners and calls upon the candidates for President of the United States to tell the nation how they would deal with the increase of poverty in America. How they would deal with reducing the nation’s deficit and balancing the budget must not and should not avoid the issue of poverty. A nation’s budget states what a nation’s priorities are. The candidates should tell the American people what their budget priorities are. Additionally, the candidates must address the issue of education, because education is critical to reducing the increase of poverty. Without a good education children will not be able to get a good job and without a good job you can’t provide for yourself and your family. Today, particularly in urban centers k-12 schools are failing many of our children. Not only are they failing our children, but aggravating the situation even more is that everyday 3, 312 children drop out of school.

We do not endorse any candidate, but we call upon the candidates to address the nation on important issues. Clearly it is important that the candidates be required to address the issue of poverty and how they will reduce it.

For further information contact Jacquelyn Dupont-Walker, Director, Commission on Social Action, African Methodist Episcopal Church (213)494-9493 or email: jdupontw@aol.com

*Submitted by Mrs. Jackie Dupont Walker, Consultant / Director for the Commission on Social Action

9. A FAITH PARTNERSHIP - PRESIDING ELDER ANNE HENNING BYFIELD PRAYS AT NON PARTISAN ECUMENICAL SERVICE:

Presiding Elder E. Anne Henning Byfield, Presiding Elder of the North District Indiana Annual Conference, 4th Episcopal District, was one of forty preachers/ministers invited to the Faith Partnerships “R.E.P.” Voter Registration, Voter Education, and Voter Participation Dialogue held at Friendship Baptist Church, Charlotte, North Carolina where the Dr. Clifford Jones is the pastor.  The non-partisan event was sponsored by Faith Partnerships, Mrs. Diana Jones Wilson, President (member of St. Paul AME Church, Raleigh, NC), and Rev. Dr. Otis Moss, Jr., Chairman of the Board.  Presenters included Ambassador James Joseph, Law Professor Charles Ogletree, (member of St. Paul Cambridge, MA),   Attorney Julius Chambers, and Attorney Anita Brown-Graham.   Invocation was offered by Dr. Jimmy Cummings, retired United Methodist pastor and the spiritual centering was provided by our own Bishop Vashti McKenzie.  Other persons participating in the dialogue included Dr. James Forbes, Dr. Yvonne Delk, Dr. Amos C. Brown, AME Bishop Reginald Jackson and AMEZ Bishop Seth Lartey.

The noonday non-partisan worship was sponsored by a coalition that included the Union Missionary Baptist Association and a national group of African American Clergy.  Presiding Elder Henning Byfield prayed for Generation Z at that service and Dr. Calvin Butts was the preacher. Numerous AMEs in attendance included Bishop Vashti McKenzie who did the Invocation, Bishop Reginald Jackson, Supervisor Stan McKenzie, and Former Supervisor Yvonne Parks along with Presiding Elder Conrad Pridgen, the Rev. Dr. G.L. Edmonds; the Rev. Dr. Granger Browning ,the  Rev. Dr. JoAnn Browning, the Rev. Marian Robinson and the  Rev. Willacin Gholston.  AMEZ Bishops participating included Bishop Joseph Johnson and Bishop Seth Lartey.


10. EVANGELISM AND STREET MINISTRY TRAINING:

Submitted by the Rev. Irene W. Booker

The Rev. Dr. James C. Wade, Executive Director of Church Growth and Development for the African Methodist Episcopal Church will conduct a workshop on Evangelism and Street Ministry Training on Wednesday, Sept 19, 2012, 6:00 p.m. Providence AME Church, 384 Decatur Street in Memphis, Tennessee.

This training will provide helpful information on how to grow your church and also fulfill the Great Commission to evangelize the world.

The workshop is free and open to all clergy and laity.

Please contact the Rev. W. M. Williams for further information and to have your name added to registration list.

Contact Information:

The Rev. W. M. Williams
(H) 901-867-8331
(C) 901-604-4433

11. FISH FRY IN KENTUCKY:

There will be a Fish Fry sponsored by the men of St. John AME Church of Frankfort, Kentucky on Saturday, September 22, from noon until 3:00 pm, at the Dolly Graham Park, 225 River Street. The fish fry is a part of St. John's pre-Men's Day activities and will include fried Whiting fillet or fried Catfish fillet sandwiches for $4.00, and dinners for $7.00. Soft drinks and dessert will also be available for purchase.

So remember to come and purchase your fish sandwich, or dinner, or even a couple of fish sandwiches and dinners, in support of the men of St. John AME Church at the Dolly Graham Park between noon and 3:00 pm, on Saturday, Sept. 22.

Submitted by Sister Penny McClain

12. THE SEVENTH EPISCOPAL DISTRICT 2012 SCHEDULE OF ANNUAL CONFERENCES


The Rt. Rev. Richard Franklin Norris, Presiding Bishop
Mrs. Mary Ann Norris, Episcopal Supervisor

The Palmetto Conference
102nd Session
August 20-25, 2012
Greater St. Stephen AME Church and supporting churches
St. Paul, Oatland Community African Methodist Episcopal Church
Nazareth, Choppee Community African Methodist Episcopal Church
Held at
Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church
401 Broad Street
Georgetown, South Carolina 29440
(843) 546-4898
The Reverend Carl Anderson, Host Pastor
And supporting Pastors
The Reverend Melvin Coleman, Co-Host Pastor
The Reverend William McNeil, Co-Host Pastor
The Reverend Rosalyn Coleman, Host Presiding Elder
The Reverend Dr. Juenarrl Keith, Co-Host Presiding Elder
The Reverend Dr. Allen W. Parrott, Co-Host Presiding Elder

The Northeast Conference
121st Session
August 27-31, 2012
Mount Zion African Methodist Episcopal Church
1305 East Cheves Street
Florence, South Carolina 29503
(843) 662-2316
The Reverend Merritt Graves, Host Pastor
The Reverend Robert B. Cooper, Host Presiding Elder
The Reverend Dr. Robert L. McCants, Co-Host Presiding Elder
The Reverend Dr. William Smith, Jr., Co-Host Presiding Elder 

The Columbia Conference
135th Session
September 10-15, 2012
Reid Chapel African Methodist Episcopal Church
704 Gabriel Street
Columbia, South Carolina 29203
(803) 786-0701
The Reverend Dr. Norvel Goff, Sr., Host Pastor
The Reverend Dr. James R. Glover, Host Presiding Elder
The Reverend Sandy W. Drayton, Co-Host Presiding Elder
The Reverend Joseph Postell, Co-Host Presiding Elder

The South Carolina Conference
149th Session
September 17–22, 2012
Greater Target African Methodist Episcopal Church
7248 Old State Road
Holly Hill, SC  29059
Telephone (803) 496-5979
The Reverend Charles C. McLamore, Host Pastor
The Reverend Malachi Duncan, Host Presiding Elder
The Reverend John H. Gillison, Co-Host Presiding Elder
The Reverend Jonathan C. Roberts, Co-Host Presiding Elder 

The Piedmont Conference
102nd Session
October 1-6, 2012
Mt. Zion – Promise Land African Methodist Episcopal Church
122 New Zion Road
Bradley, South Carolina 29819
(864) 943-1177
The Reverend James Louden III, Host Pastor
The Reverend Samuel L. McPherson, Host Presiding Elder
The Reverend Judy M. Richardson, Co-Host Presiding Elder

The Central Conference
89th Session
October 8-13, 2012
Historic Liberty Hill African Methodist Episcopal Church
2310 Liberty Hill Road
Summerton, South Carolina 29148
(803) 478-4812
The Reverend Dr. Leslie Lovett, Host Pastor
The Reverend Eddie Gaston, Jr., Host Presiding Elder
The Reverend Lorenza T. Baker, Co-Host Presiding Elder
The Reverend Barbara Chisolm, Co-Host Presiding Elder

Post-Conference Planning Meeting
November 7-9, 2012
Florence Civic Center
Florence, SC
The Reverend Robert B. Cooper, Host Presiding Elder
The Reverend Dr. Robert L. McCants, Host Presiding Elder
The Reverend Dr. William Smith, Jr., Host Presiding Elder

13. GETTING TO ZERO: A PRIMER ON BASICS OF HIV/AIDS (PART 3):                        

By A. Oveta Fuller

To “Get to Zero” (G20) will require understanding basics of why HIV/AIDS can be stopped so each person starts with a solid foundation in moving towards zero.

Part 3.  HIV infection (HIV+) and AIDS are not the same. A person with AIDS is HIV+; however, a person who is HIV+ may not have AIDS. How do they differ? Let me explain.

Progression from initial infection with HIV (the virus enters the body) to clinical symptoms of AIDS (a state of reduced CD4 cell level) can range from a short amount of time (6-12 months) to more than 20 years. The time of progression from initial HIV exposure to clinically apparent AIDS typically is from 2-8 years if no medications or anti-viral therapies are used.

If one is HIV+, monitoring of levels in the blood of CD4 cells and amount of detectable virus can indicate how close one is to conditions that bring clinical symptoms of AIDS.

When the CD4 cell level is kept at or above ~400 and the virus load is low or undetectable, a person can live a reasonably active life. Such has occurred for Magic Johnson over the 20 years since initial diagnosis. This requires consistent medical monitoring (approximately every 6 months) to determine levels of CD4 cells and HIV load. Medical care must be combined with healthy life choices for balanced nutrition, regular exercise, managed stress and reduced exposure to microbes, and carcinogens such as tobacco.

Clinical research results now show that early consistent use of anti-viral drugs (ARVs) to block or slow down reproduction of HIV can reduce loss of CD4 cells. ARVs can prolong the time it takes to get to the immune deficient state of AIDS (<200 a="a" also="also" amount="amount" and="and" cd4="cd4" cells="cells" circulates="circulates" community="community" helps="helps" hiv="hiv" in="in" infections.="infections." new="new" of="of" reduce="reduce" span="span" that="that" the="the" they="they" thus="thus" to="to" ul="ul" virus="virus">

One infected with HIV (HIV+) can make healthy life choices that assist the immune system to function adequately for many years. Diagnosis of HIV/AIDS is not a death sentence. Technologies and consistent compliance to medical care can make HIV/AIDS moreso a chronic rather than a fatal disease. Like diabetes, another chronic disease, with diligent monitoring and care, for many persons HIV/AIDS can be successfully managed. Although there is no cure, the likelihood of death or severe illness can be reduced with consistent effort.

The 2015 G20 goal of reducing deaths from AIDS-related complications depends on providing medical care and healthy life choices for persons who are living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA). In the next article we talk about the critical first step-- testing.

Bottom Line #3:  Although HIV infection changes life forever, progression to AIDS can be delayed or prevented. With consistent use of biomedical advances, HIV/AIDS can be managed as a chronic disease.  

About the author: The Rev. Dr. A. Oveta Fuller is an Associate Professor in Microbiology and Immunology at the University of Michigan Medical School and Adjunct Faculty at Payne Seminary. She was pastor of Bethel AME Church in Adrian, Michigan for seven years before primarily focusing on global HIV/AIDS ministry. Currently, she serves at Brown Chapel AME Church in Ypsilanti, MI in the 4th Episcopal District while continuing HIV/AIDS research in parts of Zambia and the USA. 

14. MEDITATION BASED ON II CORINTHIANS 5:11-17:

*The Rev. Dr. Joseph A. Darby

My mother, who was widowed and raised me on her teacher's salary and my late father's survivor benefits, was creative when it came to being economical.  We made regular trips to what was politely billed as the "bakery surplus store."  My peers and I called it the “stale bread store."  The bread she purchased there was perfectly safe and edible, but it hadn't been sold by the recommended date in the grocery store and was reclaimed by the bakery and sold at a discount because rather than being soft and pliable like fresher bread, it was a bit stiff.

I didn't mind, because that "bakery surplus" bread didn't end up going into sandwiches - my mom spoiled her only son and always bought one loaf of fresh bread for that!  She used the older bread in meatloaf and to make treats like bread pudding and French toast.  My mother had a knack for taking bread that was past its prime and considered to be "old" and using it in ways that made it absolutely delicious.

God does with us what my mother did with that old bread.  Navigating life in a world of unexpected twists and turns can make all of us a little weak and weary at times, and dealing with life's many tempting opportunities to make major mistakes leads us all into sin and bad decisions sooner or later.  The best of us sometimes end up feeling a little worn, a little spent, a little stiff and stale and less that our best.

When we have the faith, however, to put our lives into the hands of the Christ who gave His life as the price for our sins and who still has the ability to renew and restore us, we find new strength, new direction and new purpose in life.  Christ takes stale and damaged sinners like us and brings out the best in us in ways we never imagined.

Life's stress, demands and missteps leave us all stale and damaged sometimes, but the Christ who stands by and blesses us can still change us, recycle us, bring out the best in us, accept us just as we are and make us brand new people who can be what God meant us to be.

No matter how stale and damaged you think you are.  Put your life in the hands of Our Savior.  You'll be changed, strengthened and more aware of why one hymn writer said, "I came to Jesus as I was - weary, word and sad.  I found in him a resting place, and he has made me glad."


If you are in the Charleston, South Carolina area this weekend, join us on the Third Sunday in September for Church School at 9:45 a.m. and for Worship at 8 a.m. and 11 a.m.  The Combined Choir, Praise Dance Ministry, Voices of Promise and Generation of Praise will offer praise.

Sunday’s Scripture Lessons are:

Psalm 5:1-8
Philippians 3:4-14
Luke 9:51-62

Sunday’s Sermons are:

8 a.m. - “Focus on New Blessings”
11 a.m. – “Look Ahead to New Blessings”
           

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


15. CLERGY FAMILY CONGRATULATORY ANNOUNCEMENTS:

- The Rev. and Mrs. Charles Singleton, 7th Episcopal District, celebrate their 55th Wedding Anniversary

Congratulations to the Rev. Charles Singleton, Superannuated minister-Palmetto Annual Conference and Sister Jeanette P. Singleton, WMS-Life member as they celebrate their 55th Wedding Anniversary on September 7, 2012 (September 7, 1957). Their children - Charnette Eudora, Charles Prince (Delissa-Eric & Evan), Charlton Pinckney (Maryjo-Shalamar & Marcus) ask God's blessing and your prayers as the couple cruise the Bahamas during this Blessed celebration.

Congratulatory messages can be email: Jeanettepsing@att.net

Or sent to:

The Rev. and Mrs. Charles Singleton
3960 Chuck's Drive
Awendaw, South Carolina 29429-6074

- Presiding Elder Emeritus, Flemming Emmanuel Joseph of the 16th Episcopal District received a national award for making a significant contribution to the development of the country

Presiding Elder Emeritus, Flemming Emmanuel Joseph of the Windward Islands Conference, 16th Episcopal District, received a national award on the occasion of the 50th Anniversary of Independence of Trinidad and Tobago, which was celebrated on August 31, 2012.

These awards are given every year on Independence Day to citizens who have made a significant contribution to the development of the country. Presiding Elder Joseph was awarded a Humming Bird Gold Medal for outstanding achievement in the sphere of business. After migrating to Trinidad in his early 20s, Flemming Joseph started a small hardware business in the town of Chaguanas. Sixty years later the business has expanded into the Flemming Plaza occupying a major part of the main shopping area.

We salute Presiding Elder Joseph on this wonderful achievement. Congratulations may be sent to flemming@eflemming.com.

*Mrs. Wayne Anthony, 1st lady, Trinidad & Tobago & Grenada Districts, Windward Islands Conference

- Dr. Michael A. Cousin Sr., son of retired Bishop Philip Robert Cousin Sr. and Dr. Margaret Joan Cousin, Former Episcopal Supervisor turns 50 years old

My father, Dr. Michael A. Cousin Sr., turned 50 years old Wednesday September 5, 2012!  He is the pastor of Saint Stephen AME Church in Detroit, Michigan. He is the husband of Mrs. Marcy Geneva Cousin, and the father of Michael A. Cousin Jr., 21, and Timothy Charles Cousin, 19. Dr. Cousin is the son of the 96th elected and consecrated Bishop Philip Robert Cousin Sr. (Ret.) and Dr. Margaret Joan Cousin, Former Episcopal Supervisor.

Birthday greetings and cards can be sent to his residence:

Dr. Michael A. Cousin Sr.
23596 Lori Drive
Brownstown, Michigan 48134

Calls can be made to his cell phone at (313) 468-6003.

*Submitted by Michael A. Cousin Jr.


- Tiffany M. Kelly, daughter of Dr. and Mrs. Herman O. Kelly, Jr., awarded the Trustee Scholarship Fund at Nova Southeastern University

Tiffany M. Kelly, daughter of Dr. Herman O. Kelly, Jr. and Mrs. Linda M. Kelly, pastor and first lady of Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Baton Rouge, Louisiana was awarded the Trustee Scholarship Fund. Tiffany is a freshman at Nova Southeastern University in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida.

The Trustee Scholarship Fund for Students - Award Amount: $2500

Requirements: Awards are made to first year entering Graduate and first year entering Undergraduate full time students. Leadership ability, community/volunteer activities and academic excellence will be considered in the awarding process. Minimum GPA is 3.5. Scholarships are renewable with a GPA of 3.2, based on available funds.

Congratulatory messages can be emailed to Dr. and Mrs. Herman O. Kelly, Jr.  hokellyj@yahoo.com


16. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

We celebrate the life, love and legacy of Brother Bryan L. Cinder Washington, the youngest son of Presiding Elder Lloyd Washington, Jr., Alexandria-Thibodaux District-Central-North Louisiana Conference; mother, Ms. Alice Kennedy; and step-mother, Mrs. Terry Washington.

Homegoing Service was held on Saturday, September 8, 2012 at the Historic St. James AME Church in New Orleans, LA

Expressions of sympathy may be sent to:

Presiding Elder Lloyd Washington, Jr.
17326 Hwy. 442 East
Independence, LA 70443
Cell: (504) 430-1858; Home: (985) 543-0225

17. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

We regret to inform you of the passing of the Rev. Malcolm Steele, a retired pastor in the First Episcopal District, having pastored in the Delaware and New Jersey Conferences. He remained pastor at Bethel AMEC, Freehold, New Jersey in the New Brunswick District for 36 years until his retirement in 2001.

Homegoing service was held on Saturday September 8, 2012 at Bethel AME Church in Freehold, NJ where the Rev. Troy Lynn Carr, pastor.

Expressions of Sympathy may be sent to:

Mrs. Nora Steele
C/o Bethel AME Church
3 Waterworks Road
PO Box 541
Freehold, NJ 07726

Telephone: 732-462-0826 
Fax:  732-462-7015

18. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

St. James AME Church in Orange Park Florida is saddened to report the passing of the Rev. Earl Robertson a retired Itinerant Elder.  The Rev. Dr. Alesia S. Ford-Burse is the pastor of St. James.

The funeral service for the Rev. Earl Robertson was held Saturday, September 8, 2012 at Mt. Zion AME Church in Green Cove Springs, Florida

Expressions of sympathy may be emailed to: cdgbbs@yahoo.com

Or you may contact the family, Clara Robertson (wife) and Christina Gibbs (daughter) by phone at: 904-282-6232. 

19. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

We regret to share news of the passing of Mr. Earl A. Prioleau, Jr., the husband of the Rev. Delores A.B. Prioleau, an itinerant Elder and former pastor in the Washington Annual Conference, 2nd Episcopal District.

Postscript:  Dr. Richard Lewis, Treasurer/CFO AME Finance Department AME Church, along with Pastor Delores Prioleau, and her husband, Mr. Earl Prioleau have been responsible for kit coordination (assembly, etc.) for 5 quadrennials.

Homegoing & Celebration of Life for Earl A. Prioleau, Jr. was held on Thursday, September 6, 2012 at Ward Memorial AME Church in Washington, DC.

Expressions of Sympathy can be sent to:

The Rev. Deloris A.B. Prioleau
12125 Long Ridge Lane
Bowie, MD 20715
(301) 464-8084

20. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE UPDATE:

The Homegoing Services for Sister Henrietta S. Attles Ed.D., wife of the Rev. Dr. LeRoy Attles former pastor of St. Paul AME Church in Cambridge, Massachusetts, mother of the Rev. Kanice D. Johns, Pastor of Mt. Zion AME Church, Norristown, PA and mother of the Rev. Dr. Louis Attles, pastor of LaMott AME Church in Elkins Park, Pennsylvania.

The following information has been provided regarding funeral arrangements.

A funeral service was held Saturday, September 8, 2012 at
New Bethel AME Church in Lakeland, Florida and a second Homegoing celebration will be held on Saturday, September 15, 2012 at 11:00 a.m. at
St. Paul AME Church, 39 Richard Allen Drive, Cambridge, Massachusetts where the Rev. Dr. Melvin Wilson serves as pastor.

Expressions of Sympathy can be sent to:

The Rev. Dr. LeRoy Attles
3246 Bridgefield Drive
Lakeland, Florida 33803

Instead of flowers you may send a Donation to:

Promise Ministers, P.O. Box 3705, Lakeland, Florida 33802

Family contact:

The Rev. Louis P. Attles, D.Min, Pastor
LaMott AME Church
1505 W. Cheltenham Ave.
Elkins Park, PA 19027

Telephone: (215)782-1165
Fax: (215)782-1705
Cell: (973)449-1104

21. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

We announce with deep regret and sympathy the death of Mr. Floyd Johnson.  Mr. Johnson was the father of Ms. Miriam Smith and the grandfather of the Rev. Dr. Micheal A. Smith, pastor of St. Andrews AME Church in Detroit, Michigan) and the Rev. Mishca R. Smith; and the great-grandfather of Malcolm and Marcus Smith. Please keep our family in your prayers as we try to navigate the “turbulent waters” of grief and transition.

The Homegoing celebration was held on Friday, September 7, 2012 at Ebenezer AME Church in Detroit, Michigan.

Funeral Preparation and Care has been entrusted to:

Expressions of sympathy may be sent to:

Ms. Miriam Smith
8915 Hull
Detroit, Michigan 48203

The Rev. Dr. Micheal A. Smith
370 West Van Buren Street
Battle Creek, Michigan 49037

Expressions of sympathy may be emailed to: revmichealasmith@aol.com

22. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

After a lengthy illness, Presiding Elder (retired) Marcus H. Elliott, Jr. passed on Saturday, September 8, 2012 at 12:19 p.m.

The Reverend Elliott's ministry spanned more than 50 years, during that time he served as the pastor of many congregations, and four Presiding Elder Districts. He was granted superannuated status in 2004.

He is survived by his spouse, Mozell Elliott; son, Marcus (Ramona); daughters, Ermajean Williams (Oliver), Anita Brannon (Presiding Elder Eugene), Melanie Hillard (Jessie); stepson, Rev. Bill A. Bowers (Sandra), 8 grandchildren, 1 great grand child; a host of relatives and friends.

Arrangements are pending, and services have been entrusted to Watson Northcrest, 1801 North Maple Street, North Little Rock, AR. 72114.

23. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

We regret to share news of the passing of Mrs. Gloria D. Spears, the wife of the Rev. Herbert Spears, pastor of Green Chapel AME Church in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Mrs. Gloria D. Spears served as the WMS Conference Treasurer.

The Homegoing Celebrations were held on Sunday, September 9, 2012 at Allen Chapel AME Church in Baton Rouge, Louisiana where the Rev. Bland Washington serves as pastor.

Expressions of sympathy may be sent to:

The Rev. Herbert Spears, Pastor
Greater Greene Chapel AME Church
1232 North 32nd Street
Baton Rouge, LA 70802

24. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

We regret to share news of the passing of the mother of Mrs. Betty Braziel, wife of the Rev. Eddie Braziel, pastor of St. Andrews AME Church in Gulf Port, Mississippi. The funeral service was held on Saturday, September 8, 2012, at the Rosehill Church of God in Christ in East Magnolia, Mississippi.

Expressions of sympathy may be sent to:

The Rev. and Mrs. Eddie Braziel
St. Andrews AME Church
2615 Madison Street
Gulfport, MS 39501

25. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

We regret to share news of the passing of Mrs. Geneva Thomas, minister's widow in the Central North Louisiana Conference, 8th Episcopal District.

Services for Mrs. Geneva Thomas were held Saturday, September 8, 2012 at Mary Springhill AME Church in Shreveport. Louisiana where the Rev. Demetrese Phillips serves as pastor.

Expressions of sympathy may be sent to:

The family of Mrs. Geneva Thomas
C/o Mary Springhill AME Church
4426 Linwood Avenue
Shreveport, LA 71108

26. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

We regret to inform you of the passing of Mrs. Minnie E.R.  Alston, the beloved wife of the Rev. William Hance Alston, a retired pastor in the South Carolina Conference of the Seventh Episcopal District who last pastored Macedonia AME Church in Charleston and who is the former Mayor of Awendaw, South Carolina.  Mrs. Minnie E.R. Alston entered into eternal rest on Friday, September 7, 2012.  Mrs. Alston was 81 years old and a retired Charleston County public school teacher.

The funeral service for Mrs. Minnie E.R. Alston was held on Wednesday, September 12, 2012 at Mt. Nebo AME Church in Awendaw, South Carolina.

You may sign the online Guest Book:


Condolences and expressions of sympathy may be sent to:

The Rev. William Hance Alston and family
6470 Hwy. 17 North
Awendaw, SC 29429

Home Telephone: 843-928-3378
Mobile: 843-509-0435

27. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

We regret to announce the passing of the Rev. Willie Walter Griffin, Sr. of Marianna, Florida, who passed away Saturday, September 1st. The Rev, Griffin was a minister in the 11th Episcopal District, Florida Conference serving several AME Churches in the area. He leaves to cherish his memory, a wife of 69 years, Emma L. Griffin; 7 children; 22 grandchildren; 43 great grandchildren; 3 great-great grandchildren and other relatives. Reverend Griffin is the brother of retired Presiding Elder Henry R. Griffin, Jr., Tallahassee, Florida and the uncle of the Rev. Mark L. Griffin, pastor of Wayman AME Church, Jacksonville, Florida.

Services for Reverend Willie Walter Griffin, Sr. were held on Friday, September 7 and on Saturday, September 8, 2012 at Snowhill AME Church in Malone, Florida.

Expressions of sympathy may be sent to:

The Rev. Henry Griffin and to the Rev. Mark Griffin 

Or

McKinnie Funeral Home Chapel
5304 Bowden Hill Road
Campbellton, FL 32426

Telephone: 850-263-3333
Fax: 850-263-3337

28. 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





29. 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