Bishop T. Larry
Kirkland - Chair, Commission on Publications
The
Reverend Dr. Johnny Barbour, Jr., Publisher
The Reverend Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III, Editor
May is National Stroke Awareness Month
Mark
and Save Date in your Calendars:
Pentecost
Sunday May 19, 2013
General
Board Meeting - June 22-26, 2013
Bishop
Sarah F. Davis Investiture – June 24, 2013
1. TCR EDITORIAL – STOP PAYING YOUR PASTOR ON
SUNDAY MORNINGS:
Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III,
The 20th Editor, The
Christian Recorder
I have had an interesting week reading emails and talking with several
subscribers of The Christian Recorder.
I am always amazed about how strongly people feel about, and have love for the
African Methodist Episcopal Church. Yesterday, I received a telephone
call from Sister Jones. Longtime readers will remember that I overheard a
conversation between two ladies, who I referred to as Sister Smith and Sister
Jones during the 2010 General Board Meeting that was held in Birmingham that
resulted in my August 6, 2010 TCR Online
editorial, “A Fly on the Wall.” I
also published an “A Fly on the Wall, Part 2.” I also received another call
from them a year or so ago. Sister Smith was not on the call I received
from Sister Jones yesterday.
Sister Jones opened the call with, “Good morning, Dr. Sydnor! This is
your friend, Sister Jones.” I could feel the smile in her voice
and sensed that I was going to get an earful of some useful materials for an
editorial.” She continued, “I heard about your presentation at the
Midwest Conference Lay Organization Meeting in Kansas City. I would love
to have been there. I heard that you talked about technology as a necessity for
growing churches.”
In the back of my mind, I suspected that was not what Sister Jones
called about. Her next statement began
to confirm my intuition. She continued,
“You have been on a roll with the editorials about training. I have enjoyed
reading them and I agree that we need a lot more training in the AME Church;
not only for clergy, but for the laity.”
I thought, “This conversation is going someplace, but she hasn’t sprung
it on me yet.”
With the niceties out of the way, Sister Jones pounced, “Your three-part
editorial was excellent, but I wished that you had devoted more time on
technology as I heard you did in your presentation in Kansas City.”
She continued, “I really feel strongly about technology and was
perturbed on Sunday and that’s why I decided to call you.” Uh huh, I knew it was something.
Sister Jones said, “I was so upset after church on Sunday. We have a new
pastor. He is a young man with a family; two young children. We had
a long service, but it was wonderful. Our young pastor is an excellent
preacher and he visits the sick. We are so happy with the Bishop’s
appointment. Well after church on Sunday his children were probably tired
because they were crying and I am sure they wanted to go home. His wife was
trying to quiet the kids. I said to our pastor, ‘You all need to get those
kids home or maybe to McDonald’s; they are tired.’” The pastor responded, ’We
are; I am waiting for my check.”
“Dr. Sydnor! I almost lost it! You have already mentioned in several
editorials about the need for churches to move to direct deposit for pastors’
salaries, presiding elders’ assessments and electronic paying of bills. There is no reason for a pastor to have to
stand around on Sunday waiting for his or her paycheck. I was so embarrassed and hurt that our young
pastor had to wait around like a day-laborer waiting for his check. This is
2013, and as I said, you have addressed this issue several times and common
sense should dictate to local churches that they should handle pastors’
salaries more professionally.”
I wanted to get in on this issue because I feel strongly about pastors
standing around waiting for their checks.
Just as I was about offer my comments, Sister Jones continued, “I think
that keeping the pastor waiting for a check after service on Sunday is a
control thing; keeping power in hands of the ‘real pastor’ or someone; perhaps
a steward, who thinks he or she is the ‘real pastor.’ I also think that there
is a perception that the pastor is paid for preaching and giving a pastor a
check after the morning service is symbolic of paying the pastor for preaching;
when a pastor does so much more than that, especially fulltime pastors.”
I wanted to add my thoughts because I think paying a pastor with a check
on Sunday, before or after worship is demeaning, so when Sister Jones paused, I
added, “I agree with your thought that it’s a control issue, but I also believe
that it’s a failure on the part of the stewards to take responsibility for the
duties to which they have been instructed.”
There was silence on the other end of the phone so I thought that I had
better continue while I had “the floor.”
“Paying the pastor, musicians and other staff members on Sunday shows
disrespect and is an unhealthy way for a church to conduct business and is
directly tied to how the church manages, or fails to manage, its budget and
offerings. I guess the pastor is paid only if there is enough put in the plate on
Sunday morning,” I said.
I was getting ready to speak when Sister Jones said, “Or it might be
indicative of lack of trust. Perhaps they are afraid the pastor won't show up
on Sunday if you pay the pastor's salary by direct deposit. I believe it’s a
lack of trust,” and it might have something to do with the church’s cash flow.”
I added, “I believe the real issue is a ‘lack of trust’ in that the
stewards distrust parishioners’ ability or willingness to give at the
level required to support ministry. The other issue is the unwillingness
and failure of the stewards to take responsibility for strategizing and
developing programs to insure sufficient income is generated to support the
local church’s religious program. Stewards defer to pastors and some pastors
seem too focused upon ‘filling the house,’ which is not a strategy. ‘Filling
the house’ is not a strategy because it can be derailed by weather, illnesses,
or just plain old, ‘I don’t like what’s going on, so I will stay at home and
keep my money at home’ or ‘I don’t give a darn!’”
Sister Jones jumped in, “Church people are slow to change and it seems
they are even slower at embracing technology. I suspect that some of the church
officers, especially the older stewards, probably haven’t thought about direct
deposit because they operate in ‘this is how it’s always been done’ and it
might not have occurred to them how they could pay the pastor, staff and their
other bills more efficiently. And, of course as you said, the issue could be
‘trust’ or ‘control.’”
I responded, “Church people are slow to embrace change, especially if
they are not prepared for change. Pastors, their supervisors (presiding elders)
and the episcopal leadership need to do a better job of preparing people for
change; and that includes technology. The amazing thing is that paying salaries
by direct deposit is so easy and convenient. If local churches ever got started
paying bills electronically, they would ask themselves why they had not begun
electronic payments earlier. What that also means is that local churches that
pay salaries and bills electronically would need to develop proactive
strategies to ensure sufficient funding, which they should be doing anyway. In
other words, local churches could not function reactively, but would need to be
proactive. And, I suspect, if pastors and officers sat down and began to talk
and develop strategies and operational budgets, they could easily change their modus operandi and begin to function in
a healthier proactive manner.”
Sister Jones said, “Amen to that!
So, I guess the issue does get back to ‘training, training, and more
training.”
“Yep! Ministry is more than preaching and leading Sunday worship
services. It seems that so many pastors
focus upon Sunday worship services and how to ‘fill the house’ that they
neglect the bigger issues, which if the bigger issues could be solved, would
help them to ‘fill the house.’”
I went on to share, “I recently read in our local paper about a young
United Methodist female pastor, the Rev. Sherry Cothran Woolsey who was a
professional singer in her ‘earlier life.’ When she was given a pastoral
appointment in 2008, her district superintendent encouraged her to ‘bring of
her gifts, including her art, into the church. But at the time she didn’t see how
the two could fit together.’ Her response was classic and should be read by
every person planning to enter the ministry. She said, ‘I needed to learn how
to be a pastor first…that included spiritual tasks, like leading worship
services and preaching sermons, but also the day-to-day concerns of raising
funds for the budget and renovating the church building.’”
I added, “I was struck by her response of putting the day-to-day
concerns right up there with the spiritual tasks. She was concerned about the
needs of her 100 member congregation with its attendance of 50 - 60
parishioners each Sunday.”
I felt like our conversation was coming to an end and said, “Every
pastor needs to learn how to be a pastor first. And pastoring includes, the
spiritual tasks, like leading worship services, preaching, but also the
day-to-day concerns of raising funds for the budget and infrastructure needs
like renovation and upkeep of the church building.”
Sister Jones said, “Amen! I gotta go now, but I would also like to ask
you to write an editorial that addresses telephonic meetings. Most of the
meetings at our church could be conducted just as effectively telephonically.”
“Have a great day, Sister Jones and I always enjoy speaking with you and
I hope churches will stop paying their preachers on Sunday mornings and pay
their preachers by direct deposit.”
And one more thing
“If you speak with Sister Smith, please give her my regards and tell her
that I would love to hear from her and maybe when I retire, I can reveal your
real names? What do you think?”
Sister Jones quickly responded, “I don’t think so! We have a deal and
let’s stick with that.”
I replied,” A deal is a deal and y’all’s names are “Sister Smith” and
“Sister Jones.”
2. TCR OP-ED COLUMNS:
-- TCR OP-ED - RESPONSE:
TRAINING, TRAINING AND MORE TRAINING
A few weeks ago I attended a conference at
Vanderbilt Divinity School entitled, "The Black Church in the 11th
Hour." One segment of the conference highlighted the Womanist Perspective,
"What Manner of Woman is this? Dr.
Teresa Fry Brown, Dr. Stacey Floyd Thomas and Dr. Valerie Bridgeman all did an
excellent job sharing in a panel discussion on, "If it Wasn't For the
Women" as the church wrestles with it's 11th Hour "isms" on women, leadership in the church and how
women are making an impact in the 21st century in a post-modern society.
The conference helped me to affirm and give a
definitive voice to the audience God has called me to advocate on behalf of,
Women in Ministry. Sisters and brothers, DON'T IGNORE THE REAL ELEPHANT IN THE
ROOM...OPEN YOUR EYES to the real truth and speak truth to power. WHEN the
social and political underpinnings of silence and denial CREEPS into the church
setting it's time to break the silence on disrespect to women in ministry,
particularly to those who have earned, and I do repeat earned the highest
professional degree in ministry from an ATS accredited school.
At every level of society the elephant is present.
I refuse to be a part of the conspirators' social pressure in the church or
society. When colleagues in the church blatantly refuse to recognize your
hard-earned academic work in ministry and other areas of preparation for life
it's time to do more than Lean IN; it's time to speak up and give voice to the
voiceless.
God has truly blessed me with some very good
mentors who taught me how to find my voice and they indeed encouraged me to use
it. What are you doing with yours? It's time to address the real elephant in
the room.
*The Rev. Dr. Janie Dowdy-Dandridge, D Min. is a
2012 graduate of United Theological Seminary
-- TCR OP-ED - A PRAYER
TO END DISCRIMINATION AGAINST WOMEN IN CHURCH:
*The Rev. Mark Whitlock
There are still church pastors and church leaders
worldwide who believe women have no authority to pastor and should remain
silent the church. It is further exacerbated by the misinterpretation of 1
Timothy 2:11-12. St. Paul wrote these
scriptures to guide a troubled, first century church, not to create a
discriminatory church policy against women in the 21st century. Yet,
the reality is women are being discriminated against. It is a silent and stifling church policy
that must come to an end!
Sacred scriptures are misused to silence women and some
stop women from pastoring because there is no biblical model. The truth is men
use sacred scriptures to limit competition for pastoral jobs, smaller rural
church appointments, church management, and remain in power. There are some
churches founded by women, but women are expected to submit to misogynistic
messages and discriminatory church policies and practices limiting women to
cooking, cleaning, caring for the crippled, and giving money to finance
pastoral appointment and church budgets.
Rev. Hermia Shegog Whitlock graduated from the University
of Chicago Law School, was a successful corporate attorney, is a graduate
student at Claremont School of Theology, ordained co-pastor of Christ Our
Redeemer African Methodist Episcopal Church, mother of two, grandmother, and
worked tirelessly both inside and outside of the church. She has made measurable contributions toward
church growth, mentored children, and preaches a great sermon. But there are
some churches and ministerial alliances that will not permit her to enter the
pulpit, pray or preach from the church pulpit. There are a number of pastors
who refer to her as “sweetie,” “darling and “dear in church during worship
service. I have experienced her pain
because she is my wife.
The history of murder, incarceration, drug abuse,
alcoholism, wars, and divorce in the United States has removed men and
specifically Black men from church and family.
For decades, women have held the church and family together without the
help of men. Currently, women outnumber
men in seminaries, on college campuses and are the largest population within
church congregations nationwide. The
fabric of Christian faith is grounded on a woman agreeing to carry the seed of
God for nine months giving birth to Jesus. Women have been the backbone of the
church and family from the beginning, but are still treated like second class
citizens from the pulpit to the last row in the pew. It is time for the truth to be told.
Rather than argue the biblical interpretation and church
application of sacred scripture, let us pray to end discrimination against
women in the pulpits, church board rooms, and church pews through the
world!
*The
Rev. Mark Whitlock is the Senior Minister COR AME Church, Orange County and
President of the OC Interdenominational Alliance
-- TCR OP-ED – CULTURAL SHIFTS A REALITY AND TRAINING IS ESSENTIAL:
Bishop Adam J. Richardson, Presiding Prelate, 11th
Episcopal District
Bishop Adam Jefferson Richardson response to article in The
Washington Post about a Washington, D.C. black pastor of a white Southern
Baptist church that was terminated because of the congregation thought he was
making worship and leadership changes too quickly.
Bishop Richardson's
comments: The Washington Post article
Thanks for sharing. Remove the racial implications and the story
is akin to cultural shifts in churches everywhere, across denominational lines.
It is especially visible in AME congregations with younger pastors doing their
best to stay relevant and trying to fill seats. Older AMEs still look for the
"signs and symbols" of what it means to be in an AMEC worship
service. These would include the traditional call to worship, at least one hymn
from a hymnal, at least the summary of the Decalogue, exercising a patience
that makes use of a crescendo-to-climax formula. Younger pastors (which may
include the young at heart) endeavoring to meet in the middle of the cultural
divide, seem to be more anxious to "get to the point" and could care
less about the hymnal and its contents in order to provide, “not a worship
service" but a “worship experience." I think our survival, in some
instances, has been our ability to be flexible. We have learned to adapt. Come
to think of it, this process is called "evolution" and involves the
ability of species of plants and animals to adapt. Only the "fit"
shall survive in a changing environment.
About training
The issue is, in my opinion, complicated. I am all in favor of
training. I insist upon it. We are paying enormous sums of money to get our
preachers through seminary. We are bringing in a variety of qualified people
(teaching by example) to assist us with in-service training for those who can't
get away. I am pulling out all the stops to model what deem to be important
features of AME worship, inclusive of some of the new features (theology
content and song selection) to show how it can be done responsibly. I am doing
my best to prove to many younger pastors that "order" is still
necessary, that hymns (however old most of them may be) serve as a repository
for Biblical/Christian theology and orthodoxy; that pulpit gowns and clergy
apparel are not out of vogue; that liturgy is still useful in helping our
constituents (the folks who come to our churches) to understand more fully what
the faith-walk is substantially about. We are on the same page about training;
we can't have too much of it. The problem is that of a rejection (a
repudiation) of the old order, believing that it has passed it's time and
serves no useful purpose other than tradition. That crowd has already turned
the corner (with training). It is a conscious decision. Many of this crowd now
quibbles over the definitions of "honoring tradition" while steering
clear of "traditionalism."
I can always tell at Annual Conference, whether the host church
practices the use of the Decalogue. That's an easy one; the choir and
musician(s) don't know it. It is obvious about the way congregations sing hymns
as opposed to the way they sing choral selections and the new genre of praise
songs. It is a matter of emphasis; we do better what we do most. I could go on,
but the point I am making is that many pastors have made a deliberate,
intentional turn towards more contemporary worship styles and content, to the
neglect of what we have valued as meaningful over the long term. Some pastors
may try to make a shift back to the "traditional" in deference to the
bishop being present, but they don't do it well because they don't do it often.
Other pastors don't try to pretend, and simply hope that I (the bishop) will
understand and embrace what they are doing (or not doing) as their way of
demonstrating to all that AME worship is not "dry, complicated,
liturgy-ladened, and dead." I suspect that some of this
"training" was gotten from watching television and copying what they
believe to be success. Again, I say that it is a conscious decision to be
different. The evolution of dance, popular music, and manner of dress would
serve as indicators as to what congregations are facing and how many pastors
are responding to these shifting dynamics.
A good military analogy might be an army being intensely trained
in hand-to-hand combat, but the army they have squared off against has recently
transitioned to the use of computers and drones. Both have training, but the
style of combat has changed, based on the continuing development of new
technology and strategies. This is not an endorsement of drones, but a reminder
of how things and times change - spears, swords, muskets, rifles, M1, M16,
AK-47, et al, airplanes, helicopters, B1, B52, Stealth Bombers, Drones and
everything in between, and whatever else is on the drawing board.
A. J. Richardson
3.
READER RESPONSE TO EDITORIAL AND OTHER ISSUES:
April 29, 2013
-- To the Editor:
RE: Editorial: Training, training, and more training
I have been much encouraged by your recent editorials. That you
have honestly and boldly opened the conversation focusing on the need for
deliberate, intentional, and consistent training within our Zion suggests that
our ‘dry bones can live.’ Thank you!
Because of a rigorous Board of Examiners experience prior to
ordination and serving in associate capacity for several different pastors in
churches of varied sizes and locales and frequently being given
pastoral-fill-in assignments followed up by evaluations, I am shocked beyond
belief by the obvious diversity in preparation for the pastorate in the AME
Church.
My seminary studies for both the Master of Divinity and Doctor
of Ministry degrees were essential pieces to initial preparation for ministry;
however the on-the-job training while serving under seasoned pastors in AME
Churches were foundational.
In retrospect, I was
blessed to unlearn from some and to learn from others. From both those I
consider great and those whom I consider ok, I learned the absolute necessity
to love, to listen, and to hold confidences.
It is the latter that I wish to address. On two recent occasions
ethical behavior of pastors concerning confidentiality have both angered and
saddened me.
The Rev. Dr.
Helen M. Bolden-Rogers
4. I ASK:
Bishop Carolyn Tyler Guidry
I Ask:
1) Can a local deacon or local elder perform a wedding ceremony?
2) When a component organization such as the WMS, YPD, Sons of Allen,
Lay, etc. hold a Worship Service or Program at a local church, must the host
pastor be the Worship Leader? If so, the
rationale.
Phyllis A. Kitchen
MWCO Director of Lay Activities.
Bishop
Carolyn Tyler Guidry’s Response to the Question:
Sister Kitchen,
Thank you for your questions.
1. Yes, Local Deacons and Local Elders can perform can perform weddings,
distribute communion, and perform baptisms, all under the authority of the
minister in charge. Deacons cannot
consecrate the elements of Communion. (These duties are spelled out on the
ordination certificate for locals) See The
Book of Discipline of the African Methodist Episcopal Church 2008, Pages
127-128; Section XI, A & B
2. I can find no requirement in the Book of Discipline that states the
Pastor Must be the Worship Leader for services sponsored by the Lay-lead
organizations named in your inquiry.
However, each organization has a worship leader charged with the
responsibility of leading and planning services of worship for the
organization. The pastor should be
presented with all plans for worship for his/her approval before they are
finalized.
Bishop Carolyn Tyler Guidry (Retired)
African Methodist Episcopal Church
5. THE
JAMAICA ANNUAL CONFERENCE- A SPECTACULAR EVENT:
*The Rev. Velma E. Grant, MDiv, ThM
The Jamaica Annual Conference, which is one of the seven Annual
Conferences of the Sixteenth Episcopal District, recently, convened its 101st
session in Kingston, Jamaica. Sixteenth
District Episcopal Team leaders, Bishop Sarah Frances Taylor Davis and her
husband, Mr. Claytie Davis, Jr., Supervisor of Missions demonstrated that they
were indeed a dynamic duo as they led the WMS, YPD activities as well as the
other official events of the Annual Conference. The Conference theme was
“Living the Life of the Christ in Me.”
In Kingston, Jamaica, the convening location was Chapel of Christ Our Redeemer
AME Church, the Rev. Dr. Monica L. Spencer, pastor and in addition, Saint John
AME Church (the Rev. Lazree Davis) was a co-host with Dr. Spencer. Both of
these churches worked diligently to make the 101st session a spectacular event
that welcomed AMEs from all over the island of Jamaica from April 17 through
April 21, 2013.
Supervisor of Missions, Mr. Claytie Davis conducted the business session
of the WMS on Wednesday April 17, 2013. WMS business included hearing the
reports from Local Presidents from the Blue Mountain District (Presiding Elder,
the Rev. Dr. Millard L. Davis) and the Pedro Plains District (Presiding Elder,
the Rev. Leebert Dawkins). A memorial service as well as elections for new WMS
officers was also part of the business agenda for the day.
At 7 p.m. on the same night, the WMS Night in White Service began with
Sister Allison McNish serving as the Worship Leader. Sister McNish set the tone
for the remainder of the service and shared her angelic voice with the
congregation. Sister Winifee Charles Lawrence, Connectional WMS Parliamentarian
presented the Episcopal Supervisor who in turn introduced the Bishop. Bishop Davis then introduced the preacher for
the night’s service, the Rev. Remonia Hamilton.
The Rev. Hamilton used John 12: 1-8 as her sermon text and the title was
“Changing Your Environment with Your Worship!” She preached with passion and
power proclaiming “…how do you change your environment., by learning how to
worship…determine that this is the day that the Lord has made…everywhere you
go, you can change the atmosphere by your attitude….genuine worship can silence
your critics, if you want to learn how to silence your critics, learn how to
praise…get involved with extravagant worship… the Spirit is alive today, get rid
of the waste, a waste is a talented choir with no anointing…genuine worship
opens your prison, when you stir up the atmosphere right here something is
happening over there…worship liberates…worship has the ability to unchain
shackles…Paul and Silas knew the true worship…genuine worship sends God’s
favor… God loves worshippers. Genuine worship makes you attractive to God.”
On Thursday April 18, the Jamaica Annual Conference Opening Service
began with the processional of choir, preachers, Presiding Elders and the
presiding prelate, Bishop Sarah Davis. AME Church members arrived from all over
the island of Jamaica to participate in the Annual Conference. They arrived
from the countryside and from the city, some walked to the church, others
drove, some arrived by taxis, and others by buses, but they came to experience
the AME Church at work and in service.
Worship Jamaican style was a high-energy celebration, the hymns, praise
and worship songs infused with an irresistible rhythm that had the old, young,
male and female rejoicing and praising God with their voices and dance. The
Worship Leader, the Rev. Dr. Monica L. Spencer is now known affectionately as a
“Jamerican” since she is a Native American who has whole-heartedly embraced the
people of Jamaica as well as the Jamaican culture.
“Living the Life of the Christ in Me” was the title of the sermon
preached by the Rev. Glendon McNish at the Opening Service. The Rev. McNish
used Galatians 2:20 as his scriptural text and said “…nothing is more important
in your relationship with God than having Christ in your life…if there is to be
a manifestation then there should be a transformation…transformation begins in
your mind…with Christ I am a new creature, there is a death to self and
sin…there are two kinds of people…some people trust in self and that equals
sin…and some people trust in God. If you trust in God that equals to
glory….when you have Christ in you, He will set up a situation and call it a
revelation….if Christ is in you it means that you have to be connected with
God…”
After the service and afternoon lunch, Bishop Sarah Davis presided over
the business of the Annual Conference.
The boundaries of the Conference were established and the various
committee members were selected and approved by the members of the Annual
Conference. It was apparent that Bishop Davis is an equal opportunity leader
(to God be the glory) and she demonstrated that by the composition of the
committee members. Every Annual Conference Committee was comprised of both male
and female members who seemed eager to serve.
Two worthwhile observations to be shared are (1) the appointment of the
Rev. Caudria Pearson Newell (the Jamaica Women in Ministry President) as the
chair of the Jamaica Annual Conference Finance Committee and (2) the observation
that there were young adults appointed to every committee including those
acting as Conference Marshalls. Those two observations are worth mentioning
because in most Annual Conferences the general composition of such committees
are dominated by older males. The 21st century church should reflect the
general make up of the church and not that of a patriarchal system, so kudos to
the very capable bold and brilliant Bishop Sarah Frances Taylor Davis.
Throughout the remainder of the Conference, Bishop Davis encouraged the
attendees to participate in the teaching sessions of the church (Christian
Education). She shared that General Officer, the Rev. Dr. Calvin Sydnor; Editor
of The Christian Recorder makes an excellent point when he points out that the
AME Church does not have a drought when it comes to good preaching, but the AME
Church lacks teaching. Bishop Davis encouraged the attendees to learn as much
together; and to put on the mind of Christ.
On Friday morning April 19, Bishop Davis also paused and allowed those
persons who attended the 2012 General Conference to reflect and share with the
general body. There were at least 13 persons present and comments shared
included remembering the slogan of the now present General Secretary, the Rev.
Dr. Jeffery B. Cooper “Consider it Done!” Other reflections included
appreciating the diversity and unity at the General Conference, the morning
prayer sessions, the worship services and of course the presence and speech of
First Lady Michelle Obama. Bishop thanked those who shared and encouraged
others to make preparations to travel to the birthplace of African Methodism to
celebrate the 2016 General Conference in Philadelphia.
At the Conference Institute, Sister Lisa Brown Douglas taught the church
using the Conference theme Living the Life of the Christ in Me. Sister Douglas
used Galatians 2: 20 along with Colossians 3: 1-4 as the scriptural text. She
posed two questions (1) Examine our personal ideals of who God is? (2) How can
I live the life of The Christ in me so that it impacts our church, community,
our workplace more? Sister Douglas further shared that “Living the life of
Christ is important but people must be able to see God in you, people must be
able to hear God through you….new mission is to know Christ and to make Him
known.”
In the afternoon, Bishop Davis heard the pastoral reports and while
hearing the reports, Bishop inquired/asked each pastor what was their target
number of souls to be saved for Christ in the upcoming Conference Year. Each pastor
responded positively so prayerfully next Conference Year there will be a great
increase in the Jamaica Annual Conference. The Rev. Dr. Monica L. Spencer
presented her first report as pastor of Chapel of Christ Our Redeemer AME
Church. Dr. Spencer was surrounded by her members who supported her and
acknowledged how Dr. Spencer “facilitated their healing.” The delegate told
Bishop Davis in regards to Dr. Spencer “if you remover her, it will bring a
‘bam-bam.’” The delegate’s statement prompted laughter from those in attendance
because a “bam-bam” is a disturbance, but the statement shows the respect and
affinity that the members of Chapel of Christ Our Redeemer hold for their
Jamerican pastor who was also reappointed for another year.
On Saturday, the Rev. Dr. Debora F. Grant, Pastor of Saint John AME
Church, Columbus, Georgia (6th Episcopal District) was the guest Ordination
Preacher. Dr. Grant used I Peter 2:9 with the title “You’re It!” to deliver
encouragement to those being ordained as well as those in attendance. She said
“…you have been chosen by God to be leaders, healers, providers, preachers and
the light on a hill…even in a dry season God can do more with us than we can
imagine…as a chosen one, you have to know your purpose…you have been given the
assignment to take over…God wants us to spread his joy…knowing your purpose
inspires you to work…you have to know the plan…even the most gifted person can
walk out of the will of God…know what God has in store for you…you have to know
your power… the Holy Spirit works within us…when you don’t know your strength
then there is a tendency for you to be under used or over used…be strong in the
Lord and in the strength of his might in spite of yourselves…You’re It!...”
The final day of the Jamaica Annual Conference was Sunday April 21 and
Chapel of Christ Our Redeemer AME Church was filled with preachers, laity,
visitors including Minister Julian Robinson, representing his constituents and
the Prime Minister of Jamaica. The beat
of the music, rhythm and the voices of people praising God “Island style” were
contagious and resulted in happy smiles from happy people.
The dynamic Bishop Sarah Frances Taylor Davis delivered a sermon “Believer
Disciple (Guard Your Peace)!” using Philippians 4:4-7 (focus on verse 7) to the
waiting congregation. Bishop Davis preached “…It is not enough just to come to
Annual Conference, it is not enough just to give pastoral reports…we really
have to live the life of Christ in us, we really are believer disciples…we
don’t live in a perfect world…in a perfect world people have what they need and
people would share what they have...we don’t live in a perfect world…Jamaica is
not the only place that needs peace…even in the holy land, the place where
Jesus was born there is no peace … somebody / something is trying to take your
peace … Is it not here in the body of Christ that we should be demonstrators of
peace?...why is it in the church ... peace is often challenged or sabotaged,
what is happening with the peace? We have to desire to be a peaceable
people…you need to pursue peace…if contentment is to come, it is because we
recognize and remember the promises of God…if you seek the Lord, He will give
you perfect peace that the world does not know about…How badly do you want your
peace? If you want it bad enough, you will do all that God wants you to do…when
peace is used, it is used in a positive
way, it means…I pray that all of the good that’s on its way to you will get to
you…Guard and protect all of the good that God has coming your way…breathe in
the prayer that you need…inhale peace, exhale frustration…develop the effort to
demonstrate your peace…if you want to guard all of the good that God has coming
your way, trust in the Lord with all of your heart, lean not to your own
understanding but in all thy ways acknowledge God…be willing to guard your
peace…” The service ended appropriately with Bishop Sarah Davis handing out
copies of the hymn When Peace Like a River and all present sang with one voice
the verses concluding with the refrain, “It is well, it is well with my soul.”
After the service Bishop finished with the final business of the Annual
Conference, heard the minutes of the secretary, reports from various committees
and organizations including Women in Ministry, the Statistician, the Treasurer
and the Chair of the Finance Committee.
At the conclusion of the WIM report Bishop Davis paused and requested a
picture with all of the Women in Ministry of the Annual Conference as well as
the visitors from the Sixth, Dr. Debora Grant and myself.
Supervisor Claytie Davis, Jr. introduced the new officers of the WMS,
the YPD and handed out certificates to all of the newly elected and presented
officers of both components. Bishop Davis issued certificates to Licentiates,
the four newly ordained Itinerant Deacons who all received gifts of books as
well as their first church appointments. Similar to other Episcopal Districts
Annual Conferences, the presiding prelate returned some pastors to their
churches and others were reassigned to other churches. The 101st session of the
Jamaica Annual Conference truly has adequate, loving and kind leaders at the
helm. Bishop Sarah Frances Taylor Davis and Supervisor Claytie Davis have
proven that it is possible for a woman to be the shepherd within the AME Church
and that her spouse can demonstrate the attributes of a “real man’ by
supporting the God ordained ministry of his wife. Kudos to the 16th
Episcopal District leaders, Bishop and Supervisor, job well done.
*The Rev. Velma E. Grant, MDiv, ThM is the President of Women In
Ministry of the Sixth Episcopal District
6. PLAN TO ATTEND BISHOP SARAH F. DAVIS’ INVESTITURE
CELEBRATION:
The Investiture Celebration will be held on Monday, June
24, 2013 at 7:30 p.m.
The Investiture Celebration will be held conjunction with
the General Board Meeting that will be held in Kingston, Jamaica, West Indies
on June 22-26.
Bishop Sarah and Supervisor Claytie Davis cordially invite
you to join them and the 16th Episcopal District Family, Monday
evening, June 24, 2013 in a worship-filled celebration of her elevation to be
President of the Council of Bishops. This historic occasion will be held at the
beautiful Pegasus Hotel in Kingston, Jamaica.
The excitement within the 16th District is
electrifying and contagious as we anticipate the Connectional Church coming
back to Kingston after some 35 years.
You do not want to miss this praise and worship experience celebrating
the faithfulness of God in the life and ministry of Bishop Sarah Davis.
7.
CONNECTIONAL LAY ORGANIZATION SPRING EXECUTIVE BOARD MEETING:
The Connectional Lay Organization, under the visionary leadership of
President Willie C. Glover, convened at the Marriott Marquis Hotel, 265
Peachtree Center, NW, Atlanta, Georgia in Atlanta April 26-27, 2013 to conduct
the business of the Connectional Lay Organization in preparation for the
upcoming 33rd Biennial Session which will be July 28 – August 1, 2013.
Each morning began with inspirational devotional and bible study
services delivered by Sister Joyce Bracy Vaughan, Chaplain. The topic for
Friday morning was: “My Spiritual Daily Dozen” (Relax, Stretch, Inhale, Exhale,
Think, Look, Listen, Walk, Talk, Smile, Love, Pray) and the topic for Saturday morning was “How
Can I Move With the Cheese?”
The two days included pertinent reports and presentations from various
officers and committees. (Additional updates and a detailed schedule for the
33rd Biennial Session will be forwarded in the next message)
Important reminders represented in the meeting were as follows:
The Housing Block for the Connectional Lay Organization is OPEN!
Housing Information for 33rd Biennial Session
Web link and access code: CLOATT0713
https://resweb.passkey.com/go/africanmethodist2013
The group rate is $125.00 per night. The total cost with applicable
taxes is $145.00
The cutoff date for the group rate is June 20th.
Phone reservations may be made by calling 1-866-469-5475.
The call in code is: AME 2013 Lay Biennial
The Connectional Lay Organization
Bishop William Phillips DeVeaux Sr, Lay Commission Chairman
Dr. Willie C. Glover, President of the Connectional Lay Organization
*This article submitted by Mrs. Eileen S. Warner, CLO Online
Administrator
8. BISHOP DANIELS CALLED THE CAPE ANNUAL CONFERENCE TO ORDER:
The special session of the Cape Annual Conference, the Midyear as we
refer to it down here met at Vinton Anderson where the Rev. William C Legolie
II is the pastor. The Rev Samuel Engelbrecht is the Presiding Elder. Whilst
there remains much questions to be answered, credit needs to given to the great
assembly for their cooperation in an effort to get the Cape Annual Conference
back on track as it should be. The spirit and attitude of all those present
reflected one of a people prepared to move forward. Leaves one with the
question, did God remove those who have been a stumbling block to progress all
these years (just asking). When we meet with a positive attitude, problems and
challenges can be dealt with in a gentle and Christian manner, especially with
a leader of the calibre of Bishop David R. Daniels and with presiding elders
who have the concerns and welfare of the church at heart.
When Cape Annual WMS President Mrs Dellarees Messiah and YPD Director
Mrs Beverley Jacobs made an appeal for more positive support, Bishop Daniels
took hold of the opportunity to bring the conference to order. Referring to the
Book of Worship he drew our attention to page 13 with reference to the order of
service. “You seem to have left out the special Missionary Benevolence here in
South Africa. You can use this to support the Cape Annual WMS the first week,
your local WMS the 2nd and 3rd week and the YPD the 4th week. This will obviate
the need to have a special effort to meet the budgets of the WMS and YPD. We
may have left it out, but there is nothing preventing us from righting a wrong”
the Bishop said. Makes sense to me!!
A detailed record of the church's finances were distributed as well as
an update of the recent court battles; all of which were ruled in the church's
favour; of the R2,8m, there is only an amount of R 907 000.00 outstanding. This
brings me to the point of Christianity and love. Whilst I suppose we can
write-off the debt and forget the hurt, but clear logic tells us that the
church has been through troubled waters and needs to recoup poor people's money
forced to be spent by detractors of the Church. So no-one can point a
finger when the church does everything in her power to get back what has been
so disastrously forced upon her to spend.
Our patience and willingness to cooperate is beginning to reap benefits
and if we continue with the mission and task entrusted on us, God will do the
rest. How do you eat and elephant? Piece by piece; one bite at a time. Let us
have the patience needed, and the road that we are endeavouring to stay on will
be much easier to travel.
The name of the Lord be praised for the Rev. Dr. James F. Miller,
our special guest pastor serving at DuPage AME Church Lisle Illinois for the
very informative and inspirational sessions on planting a church for the Lord,
and this servant of the most high can preach! It has been a
special pleasure to meet this servant at St. John AME Kensington, which
had the privilege of hosting two of his members during the month of January.
Much love and thanks to Bishop David R. Daniels for his spirit that
gives the spirit of this world no opportunity to destroy the advance of the
Kingdom.
Keep on pressing forward and keep on loving
Clive Pillay
9. METROPOLITAN AME CHURCH FINALIST SPONSORED BY THE HISTORICAL
PRESERVATION HISTORICAL TRUST:
Pastor Ronald Braxton, officers and members of Metropolitan AME
Church ask that you click on the link below and vote.
Metropolitan AME
Church has been selected as one of the finalist in the grant competition for
$100,000 sponsored by the Historical Preservation Historical Trust. The final phase of the grant process requires
that we get votes from our supporters via social media platforms. Voting started this morning at 6 a.m. We have
some very tough competition but we are in it to win it. Presently, Metropolitan is ranked 19th of the
24 sites in numbers of points received.
Please help us improve our ranking.
We are asking you
to register and vote for Metropolitan every day. Please help your family, friends and
associates to register and remind them to vote every day until May 10.
Use either of these
links to register and vote. https://www.preservedmv.com/competitors/metropolitan-ame-church
or (www.metropolitanamec.org)
Please Vote
every day until May 10, 2013. Once you have voted, send Tweets, post
pictures on Instagram, check in at Four Square, and like us on Facebook. Each
of these activities will earn extra points for Metropolitan.
Submitted
by Ronald E. Braxton, “Braxton from Metropolitan” rebraxton@metropolitanamec.org
10. KURT CARR: SINGS TO
THE HIGH HEAVENS PERFORMS TWO-HOUR CONCERT---NON STOP:
Nashville, TN. Gospel singing sensation, Kurt Carr, sang to the
high heavens, non-stop to a packed auditorium at the House of God on Heiman
Street in Nashville in early March.
Carr, headlined the Believe, Inc. concert and sang old favorites as well
as songs from his new project, Bless this House, which debuted at the top of
Billboard’s gospel sales chart.
Joe Turner, Chair of Believe Inc. says, “We were so pleased the
members of the 13th District welcomed Kurt Carr with open arms. He sang, he testified and he touched the
citizens of Nashville with his melodic gospel sounds.” According to Carr’s biographical information,
music critics say Carr has the unmistakable knack for choir-friendly melodies
that cross cultural appeal. “We are so
pleased,” Turner added.
The Believe Concert also featured Bynard Huggins, a young music
prodigy who wails on keyboards, Consecrated of The House of God and the 13th
Episcopal District Choir, under the director of Maestro Samuel Robinson. All the Presiding Elders in the 13th District
were recognized and presented plaques. “It was most appropriate to honor these
men of God for their hard work and dedication,” Turner said.
Believe, Inc. is the philanthropic arm of the African Methodist
Episcopal Church 13th District. Bishop Jeffrey N. Leath, Episcopal leader of the district said,
“We were thrilled to have gospel legend Kurt Carr to headline this special
concert. He touched our hearts with his
songs and gave us cause to celebrate God’s great work.”
Carr, an RCA Inspiration artist, has performed throughout the world
and was recently named honorary principal of a Gospel Music School in Japan
that boasts the “Kurt Carr” class of gospel music production. Even though he has traveled extensively,
Nashville holds special memories for him.
After receiving the coveted Lifetime Achievement Award in Music City,
Carr said, “I am privileged to be able to say that I sing and write gospel
music.” He was presented the award at
the Stella Gospel Music Awards ceremony, held at the world famous Grand Ole
Opry House. This renowned gospel artist
has been singing professionally for more than 20 years and his first album,
“Together” was released in 1991.
Believe Inc. provides funds for scholarships for ministers
seeking additional educational growth and support for small churches ranging
from facility support to community outreach programs.
For information about Believe, Inc., please visit www.believeinc.org or call 615.242.1373.
11. “CLAIMING YOUR
VICTORY” “A GOOD GOD DURING BAD TIMES”:
*The Rev. Dr. Michael C. Carson
"For Thou, LORD, art good, and ready to forgive; and
plenteous in mercy unto all them that call upon Thee." (Psalm 86:5)
On Friday April 19, 2013 Evangelist Catherine Carson and I were
on the telephone she in Kokomo, Indiana and I in Benton Harbor, Michigan. Cathy was sharing with me about water that
was rapidly rising all around our home in Kokomo. Cathy masterfully did what she had to do in
attempts to fend off the oncoming flood from “Lake Carson” entering our home.
The next day as Cathy, Michael III (our grandson), and I
surveyed the situation, the house still experienced some flood damage and the
garage also!
Rain will sometimes fall in our lives because of various
situations.
“Flooding” need not be an over abundance of water entering into
our physical structures. Flooding can
also manifest itself as tragedies and trying situations in our life. Sometimes events will take place in our lives
that we really had no control over but their effects are very devastating and
damaging.
How can we protect ourselves from situations we have no control
over but will still evidence themselves as being very damaging? We can purchase insurance that will at least
help us replace items that have been damaged.
But what does one do for the emotional/physical damage that might occur
as the result of a physical/emotional flood taking place in one’s life?
I would recommend that one invest in the “Goodness of God
Insurance Policy.” I would suggest that
we welcome and embrace the grace of God.
Grace is the unmerited favor of God.
God assured Paul (as well as assuring you and me), "My grace is
sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness." (2
Corinthians 12:9)
The Psalmist shares with us that “the goodness of God endures
forever.” (Psalm 52.1) Goodness is God’s absolute nature and provision. Now God’s grace will not always prohibit
“floods” from occurring in our life.
Floods will take place in our lives no matter if we had something to do
with them or not. However, Jesus shares
with us concerning the floods of life that “In the world ye shall have
tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.” (St. John 16:33)
Because of God’s grace we can boldly declare: “I trust in God wherever I may be, Upon the
land or on the rolling sea, For, come what may, from day to day, My heavenly
Father watches over me. I trust in God,
I know He cares for me, On mountain bleak or on the stormy sea; Tho' billows
roll, He keeps my soul, My heavn'ly Father watches over me.”
To all experiencing loss in some way due to the overwhelming
“floods of life” I extend to you my consolation and prayers. To all recovering from whatever damage the
“floods of life” may have caused you, I share with you a promise that Jesus
makes to us. A promise that is an
absolute truth! “And, lo, I am with you
always, even unto the end of the world.” (St. Matthew 28:20b)
Peace with justice in God’s grace, be blessed real good, attend
worship, and families matter.
*The Rev. Dr. Michael C. Carson is the pastor Union Memorial
African Methodist Episcopal Church Benton Harbor, Michigan
12. ST. JOHN AME CHURCH
IN FAIRBURN, GEORGIA CELEBRATES THE ESSENCE OF MAN:
Sister Malinda Maxwell
Faith, Family & Community
The Men of St. John African Methodist Episcopal Church in
Fairburn, Georgia, under the leadership of Pastor B.A. Hart celebrated their
2013 Men Day Activities from Sunday, March 17th - Sunday, March 24th. The focus was "Faith, Family and
Community," which is the “Essence of Man.”
Sunday March 17, 2013, Bishop Reginald T. Jackson of the 20th Episcopal
District opened the men’s conference as guest preacher. The central thought he
gave was “When Life Doesn’t Make Sense” taken from Genesis 45:4. His sermon points: God is merciful and
gracious and it seems as if God is not fair because God loves the just and the
unjust! Sometime faith does not make
sense, but we should live by it. Climb the
rough side of your mountain; you’ll have something to hold on to. God is providence; God cares and has control
over our lives.
There was a two-night revival. On Tuesday, March 19th, the Rev.
Kenneth Bailey, pastor of White Oak Baptist Church in Senoia, Georgia was our
guest preacher. He preached from John
11:42-44 and told the congregation to loose ourselves so that we can praise
God; unbind your hands, your feet and your mouth so that you can serve the
Lord.
On Wednesday, March 20th, the Rev. Willie R. Stark, Pastor of
Hammond Missionary Baptist Church in Palmetto, Georgia, a retired mess Sergeant
served us some “Soul” food. He spoke
from Matthew 13:47-50, “There are all kinds of fish in the net.” Parishioners are like fish. "Some are goldfish,
pretty, good to look at, but don’t serve any purpose; some are like minnows
that don’t grow; or like cod, filthy; and some are like barracudas, which are
territorial and nasty." He asked,
"Or do you want to be a tadpole, to be transformed into what God wants you
to be?"
On Thursday, March 21st a musical concert was held. It was a night of praise and worship with the
St. John Male Chorus, along with the men of Dent Chapel AME Church and Newnan
Chapel United Methodist Church presented a gospel concert.
The end of a "new beginning" for the Men of St. John
was Sunday morning worship, March 24, 2013.
Our guest speaker was Georgia State Rep. Calvin Smyre, a member of Ward
Chapel AME Church in Columbus, Georgia. He gave us encouraging words from
Matthew 5:14-16, “Men on a Mission.” He
challenged the congregation with three missions: Serve – value your time; have a good
attitude, which will carry you a long way in life; and unite with your
community. Georgia State Rep. Smyre
stated that men should become like a forest of redwood trees, where their roots
intertwine with each other to stand firm, which is the "essence of
man."
13. ST.
MATTHEW-SHREVEPORT, LOUISIANA GOES PINK AND GREEN:
*The Rev. Glenell M. Lee-Pruitt, M.Div., Ph.D.
On the fourth Sunday in April at St. Matthew AME Church in
Shreveport, Louisiana as Dr. Donald Tucker declared “The Lord is in His holy
temple”, the Sons of Allen began to do what they customarily do when they lead
the service.
The men of St. Matthew were adorned in their white shirts, grey
pants, and burgundy Sons of Allen tie and sport coat. What was not customary; however, were the
colors that the congregation intentionally wore. On this SOA Sunday, St. Matthew had gone Pink
and Green.
Although these colors are the ones of the pastor’s sorority founded
in 1908 at Howard University, the colors on this Sunday represented something
quite different.
The Women’s Missionary Society led on by its president Mrs.
Willie Mae Picket asked the congregation to “Worship in Pink” to highlight
breast cancer awareness. Each member was given information about breast health
and the importance of breast exams.
With April being “Earth Month”, the Young People’s Division, led
by the YPD Director Mrs. Stacey Porter, presented reusable green bags to each
adult member to highlight the importance of going green and preserving the
environment. Members were asked to use the bags when shopping instead of
accepting the plastic bags that are usually provided by merchants. Thus, St.
Matthew-Shreveport went Pink and Green to highlight the importance of the life
of women, and the life of the environment.
Members were reminded, as followers of Christ, of their
responsibility to be concerned for and take care of the earth and the
environment.
*The Rev. Glenell M. Lee-Pruitt, M.Div., Ph.D. is the pastor of
St. Matthew AME Church in Shreveport, Louisiana
14. THE RELEVANCE OF THE
BUDGET OF THE AFRICAN METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH:
*The Rev. Eraina Marie Ross-Aseme, D.Min
The word ‘Budget in our Zion sends a titter totter array of emotions
for some in the African Methodist Episcopal Church perhaps in other
denominations as well.
In the AME Church the word ‘Budget or the mentioning of it sends
shock waves throughout the faith fabrics of some of its pastors; officers and
members. Because of the Budget it has
promoted or demoted; expelled or excluded; retained or included clergypersons
and laity. Some churches have
experienced a decline in the church-roll because of how the Budget of the Connectional
Church is handled due to the misunderstanding of the purpose of the
Budget. When new members join rather
than the Good News being heard it’s the negativity of what the Connectional
Budget is rather than the functionality of what it is.
Many in our Zion will fund and support ministries outside of the
AME Church to religious celebrities that have no reporting mechanism quite like
what the African Methodist Episcopal Church upholds. And that mechanism is that
we are a reporting church. Every level in the A.M.E. Church has a layer of accountability
as to how funds and resources are handled.
As mentioned earlier when we hear Budget or Conference Claims, a surge
of anxiety peaks some of the pastors; officers and members of the local church.
The Budget is thought of as: taboo, forbidden, distasteful, and offensive; and
rightfully should be when the local church does not properly plan. It is all about how we plan.
Recently, I was asked to do a workshop at the Midwest District
Conference of the Fifth Episcopal Church, where Presiding Elder Donna F.
Roberson and Presiding Elder Steven A. Cousin, Sr., serve as Presiding Elders
of the Midwest North and Midwest South Districts, respectively. Bishop Theodore
L. Kirkland serves as the Presiding Prelate of the Fifth Episcopal District.
According to the last statistical report of the Midwest
Conference there are nearly six thousands members in the Midwest Conference.
Through collaboration efforts of both presiding elders, they hold District
Conference jointly to help with building relations between the clergy and laity
of both districts, minimize expenses, share resources and to increase
positioning of ministries in outlying areas of the conference as well as the
urban core.
The purpose of the Budget workshop was to share the importance
of paying the Budget of the AME Church. After giving much thought and prayer on
the subject matter that has been in many cases, a lethal weapon emotionally for
some; I immediately went into my prayer-closet about the request of Presiding
Elders of the Midwest District Conference.
The Holy Spirit revealed to me an alarming insight that I have never
seen or heard before in my 22 years of ministry.
First of all, an acronym was given to me for the Budget. That is, B.U.D.G.E.T., Building Useful,
Deliverables, Going Towards, Eternal, Truths.
Secondly, I was reminded that the Bible says, I Corinthians
Chapter 14 verse 40 “Let all things be done decently and in order.” KJV, which
is what, drives the functionality of The Book of Disciplines of the African
Methodist Episcopal Church.
Thirdly, through my personal and pastorate experiences, academic
training, mentorship, research, and the unction of the Holy Spirit, a spiritual
twist was given to me on how the Budget is to fulfill the Great Commission of the
Church that Christ Himself has mandated for believers.
Finally, during my pastoral experiences I have discovered that
every region of the Connectional Church has some of the same basic financial
line items that are reported at Midyear and Annual Conference. By all means,
other ministries are held throughout the year in the Connection but Midyear and
Annual Conference seem to be the most challenging for funding by some the local
churches. Perhaps the challenge comes
two-fold: lack of local church planning and the dismissal of the spiritual
significance of the Budget. The
bottom-line is this: God has given me the spiritual discernment to share with
the Connectional Church on how the local church can view the Connectional
Budget from a spiritual standpoint to enhance the ministries of the African
Methodist Episcopal Church to allow the Church of Allen to continue to prosper
and win souls for Christ.
In addition, the Midwest District Conference experienced an
immediate effect of sharing the spiritual twist on the Budget. Furthermore, the
information needed to effectively present the material is the region profile. I
might add that several subcomponents are imbedded in the overall materials to
be presented. I want to be obedient to what the Holy Spirit has given me to
share with as many that wish to reach higher heights and deeper depths in your
spiritual journey of the African Methodist Episcopal Church.
Dr. Eraina M. Ross-Aseme.
*The Rev. Dr. Eraina M.
Ross-Aseme has been preaching for 22 years, and has served as a pastor for 19
years; currently serving her seventh AME Church.
15. WILBERFORCE UNIVERSITY OPTIMIST
CLUB HAS TREE DEDICATION:
The former
governor of the Ohio District of Optimist International donated two trees to Wilberforce University
Jerry
Stahley, 2011-2012 Governor of the Ohio District, presented the trees in a
brief ceremony on the campus of Wilberforce
University
The
Wilberforce University Optimist Club was formed on September 17, 2012 and has
become one of the most active college clubs in the state. The club is focused on
bringing out the best in kids. During their short existence the club has held a clothing
drive for kids for the United Way, participated in Clean-up of historical
neighborhoods in Dayton, conducted Halloween parties for young children,
conducted mentoring activities with high school students, coordinated a
basketball tournament and other youth activities at the Xenia YMCA,
participated in boot camp activities with elementary kids, created holiday
cards for Dayton Children’s hospital, raised funds for and participated in the
March for Babies walk as part of the March of Dimes and more. The club recently
presented a monetary Community Service Award to a Wilberforce University
student, Raymond Okeke, for exemplifying strength, good character and
scholarship- -qualities valued by members of the Optimist Club.
The club is poised to expand on these activities in the coming 2013-2014
academic year.
16. 2013 THIRD EPISCOPAL
DISTRICT ANNUAL CONFERENCE SCHEDULE:
Bishop McKinley Young, Presiding Prelate
Dr. Dorothy Young, Episcopal Supervisor
July 15-18, 2013
Tawawa CED Congress
Denison University
Granville, OH
August 21-24, 2013
West Virginia Annual
Conference
August 20, 2013
WMS Annual Meeting
St. Peters AME
1050 County Road
Weirton, WV 26062
The Reverend Eddie McDaniel, Host Pastor
The Reverend Alton Dillard, Host Presiding Elder
September 17-21,
2013
Pittsburgh Annual
Conference
September 16, 2013
WMS ANNUAL MEETING
Wayman Chapel AME
1120 6th Avenue.
New Brighton, PA 15066
The Reverend Samuel Chambers, Host Pastor
The Reverend Eric L. Brown, Host Presiding Elder
The Reverend James H. McLemore, Assoc. Presiding Elder
October 8-12, 2013
South Ohio Annual
Conference
October 7, 2013
WMS Annual Meeting
Bethel AME
1507 Yankee Road
Middletown, OH 45044
The Reverend Melonie Valentine, Host Pastor
The Reverend Earl G. Harris, Host Presiding Elder
The Reverend Wilton E. Blake, I, Assoc. Presiding Elder
October 22-26, 2013
Ohio Annual Conference
October 21, 2013
WMS Annual Meeting
Mt. Vernon Avenue AME
1127 Mt. Vernon Avenue
Columbus, OH 43203
The Reverend William S. Wheatley, Host Pastor
The Reverend L. Anthony Gatewood, Host Presiding Elder
The Reverend Betty W. Holley, Assoc. Presiding Elder
November 5-9, 2013
North Ohio Annual
Conference
November 4, 2013
WMS Annual Meeting
Grace AME
1137 Main Avenue, SW
Warren, OH 44483
The Reverend Georgina Thornton, Host Pastor
The Reverend P. Robert Tate, Host Presiding Elder
The Reverend James H. Harris, Assoc. Presiding Elder
November 21-23, 2013
Third Episcopal District
Planning Meeting
Renaissance Columbus
Hotel
50 North 3rd Street
Columbus, OH 43215
614-228-5050
17. GETTING TO ZERO:
ABOUT HIV COUNSELING AND TESTING:
*Dr. Oveta Fuller
You know that the single most critical action that any one
person or group can do to take control of eliminating impact of HIV/AIDS is to
get screened for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection. Here we discuss
HIV screening during voluntary counseling and testing (VCT).
VCT and HCT (HIV counseling and testing) are terms used
interchangeably. HCT can refer to testing that is an automatic part of
processes such as pre-natal care or military enlistment. Typically in a faith
arena or community setting, we speak of VCT that is not required, but
“voluntary” counseling and testing.
The HIV screening test looks for antibodies specifically made to
HIV proteins.
The body’s amazing immune system recognizes self and non-self.
With each first encounter with non-self proteins, it responds by forming
antibodies that recognize parts of the foreign or non-self protein. These
antibodies trigger a sensitized immune defense that goes into action whenever
those proteins are next encountered. In most cases, the triggered immune
responses prevent the foreign item (virus, bacteria, fungi, allergen, a foreign
cell) from becoming established and reproducing within the body.
The increase in fluids and mucous in respiratory infections is a
result of the battle between a sensitized on-task immune system and attempts by
a microbe (influenza virus, common cold virus, pneumococcus bacteria) to
reproduce in human cells or tissue. With many microbes, and for some due to
vaccinations that prime the immune response, the immune system can handle and
fully get rid of the microbe. The immune system removes the microbe out of body
tissues. It further sets up an effective barrier for the next time that
specific microbe is encountered.
With other microbes, such as herpes simplex virus or hepatitis
B, a “stand-off” occurs in the battle between the immune defense and the
microbe. A specific immune response is triggered. However, these microbes can
hide away in certain cells of the body so they cannot be detected or reached by
immune defenses. These microbes slowly reproduce, or go in and out of hiding,
to make more microbes that eventually escape to a new host to continue the
infection cycle required for microbial survival.
For example, herpes simplex virus (HSV) reactivates (comes out
of hiding) and makes a new visible cold sore, fever blister or genital lesion.
This HSV lesion will contain newly made “progeny” virus. This progeny virus can
move into a new host if contact occurs with infected tissue or fluids that
cover the lesion (cold sore, fever blister, genital lesion) such as through
kissing or sexual intercourse. Thus, direct contact (touching tissue or fluids)
with a person who has a herpes lesion or other microbial lesion should be
avoided. Unlike with influenza or the common cold virus, the herpes simplex
virus cannot survive for transport in the air. Direct contact with infected
tissue or fluids is required.
HIV is one of the microbes that can hide out to remain forever
in the host. Although antibodies are made and the immune system of a healthy
person is triggered during the first encounter with HIV, the virus has ways of
constantly changing its outer coat proteins. The initial antibodies made
against HIV are not effective in limiting virus reproduction. Thus, HIV is NOT
eliminated from the body.
Reproducing of the virus continues in specific targeted cells.
HIV can sequester itself in lymph nodes, bone marrow and other specific tissues
to hide from immune defense efforts. Once one is infected with HIV, the immune
system, even a healthy system which tries to destroy all virus or infected
cells, cannot fully control HIV replication.
HIV, like herpes simplex virus or hepatitis B and C viruses,
sets up what is called either a persistent or latent infection. Although these
terms differ slightly, the important point for this discussion is that latent
or persistent microbes remain in the body even in the presence of a healthy
immune response. A person who has HIV in the body MUST make purposeful efforts
(through avoiding other microbes, use of anti-retroviral drugs, healthy diets,
exercise, reduced stress) to help the immune defenses to remain functional even
while HIV is destroying key immune cells.
HCT=VCT uses drawn blood, blood from a finger stick (rapid HIV test)
or tissue and fluids from a mouth swab (rapid HIV test) to detect presence of
antibodies specific to HIV proteins. It can take 6-12 weeks after exposure for
antibodies specific to HIV to form at high enough levels to be detected in
blood or mouth fluids.
After the first HIV screening test, a second confirmation test
is needed around three months after the first test to absolutely confirm an HIV
negative status.
For example, let’s use a person who thinks they may have been
exposed on May 2 to semen that contains HIV. They wisely get an HIV screening
test on May 8. The results are negative for presence of HIV antibodies. To be
complete, another HIV test is needed in 8-12 weeks to allow time for HIV
specific antibodies to appear at high enough levels for detection. If the
second test also is negative, this is interpreted to mean that no HIV exposure
happened during the May 2 encounter. The alternative outcome is that the second
test will detect HIV specific antibodies made in response to the May 2 exposure.
In the 8-12 weeks from initial virus exposure to the second test, the person
has sero-converted from an HIV- status to an HIV+ status.
The next wise action that should be set up while at the site of
VCT is a referral from the testing person for engaging with health care
personnel. Such personnel will order a blood test and provide guidance on how
to proceed for managing virus presence. Engaging with health care personnel as
soon as possible will increase chances that a person who is HIV positive (HIV
is in the body) can prevent progression to AIDS and lead a full life. Blood
tests performed by health care personnel at a clinical facility can determine
the level of virus infection and overall health of the immune system. This
information is critical to determining progression to disease (AIDS) and if and
when ARVs are needed. It is critical to helping the infected person know how to
remain healthy and how to avoid infecting others.
The sooner an HIV+ status is known after exposure to the virus,
the better the chance of maintaining a functional immune system as required for
good health.
If someone has been exposed to HIV, the sooner they know this,
the better!
If virus is within the body, whether one knows or not, the virus
is making more of itself. In this
process, it is destroying key immune cells of the body’s defenses against
foreign materials.
Getting screening for presence of HIV in counseling and testing
(VCT or HCT) will detect presence of HIV antibodies so that one can be
pro-active in managing the infection and maintaining overall health.
Not getting HIV counseling and testing gives the virus free run
of the body. It just makes sense to get the screening test!
Unfortunately, many HIV infections are only detected after the
virus has had many months or years to freely replicate. In the process the
immune defense system has been severely damaged.
Getting VCT or HCT is the smart critical action for an
individual or group to be wise and pro-active to take control of eliminating
HIV/AIDS. It is a painless (except possibly a prick of the finger) and free
procedure in most parts of the globe. Confronting fear of possible outcomes of
VCT (results can only be positive or negative for HIV presence) or confronting
fear of what others might think about you is the wise thing to do.
Getting the HIV test determines if HIV is sequestered in your
body or if you have never been infected. As responsible leaders, remember and
teach others that “God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love and
a sound mind.”
*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 served as pastor of Bethel AME Church in Adrian, MI for seven years
before primarily focusing on global HIV/AIDS ministry. Currently, she serves at
Brown Chapel AME Church in Ypsilanti, Michigan in the 4th Episcopal
District while continuing HIV/AIDS research in parts of Zambia and the
USA.
18. CHURCH SCHOOL LESSON
BRIEF FOR SUNDAY, MAY 5, 2013 - A LIVING HOPE:
*Brother Bill Dickens
I Peter 1: 3-12
Basic Need
If a random poll was conducted a vast majority of respondents
would likely prefer living things compared to non-living things. This is why products like living wills and
living trusts have evolved because they meet a person’s future needs
today. A living will is a legal document
that a person uses to make known his or her wishes regarding life prolonging
medical treatments. A living trust is an
instrument for holding and distributing a person's assets to avoid
probate. The Adult AME Church School
Lesson for May 5, 2013 explores the meaning and significance of a living hope. Hope is a treasured asset because it is the
basis for a person’s confident expectation of something good or favorable
that’s going to happen in the future.
Hope enables us to meet our basic need for security. To be effective it (hope) must be as real as
the nose on your face. Let’s see how the
Apostle Peter helps us to “keep hope alive” in our Christian odyssey.
Basic Lesson
Peter’s epistle is structured to provide encouragement for
Christians who were the victims of political and religious persecution under
Roman rule during the first century.
Chapter one provides a set of exhortations for believers to remain
steadfast in their salvation and their call to holiness. Though trails and tribulation for the early
believers seemed ubiquitous, the hope of eternal life provides the impetus to
not give up. (Verses 3-9) Like Abraham
was tested when he was willing to sacrifice his son Isaac, we too must look at
trials as tests as a signal about our relationship with God and how far we are
willing to go for His Glory. The
salvation that we yearn is far greater than the trials we face. As the late Rev. James Cleveland sang, ‘This
Too Will Pass”. This salvation is so
great that the prophets of old waited in anticipation. This salvation, accented by the preaching of
the Good News thru the Holy Spirit, is so great that the angels are eager to
see how all things are going to come to fruition. (Verses 10-12) Hope springs eternal for the greatness of
God’s salvation. This hope is kept alive
by our determination to remaining focused and keeping our eye on the Big Prize.
Basic Application
Eleanor Roosevelt was once quoted as saying, “if life were
predictable it would cease to be life and be without flavor.” The road less traveled is marked by a small
footprint because most of us would choose not to go down the path paved with
hardship and trouble. Our natural
inclination is to resist problems and be risk-averse along such journeys. In today’s lesson Peter proposes Christians
adopt an alternative perspective about trials and temptations. Yes, the risk is high but the reward more
than compensates for risk. In other
words, nothing ventured, nothing gained!
We can realize the gain (reward) because our hope about eternal life is
a living not a dead hope. We may be
tried by the fire of trials and hardships but our living hope is that one day
we will all come out as pure gold!
*Brother Bill Dickens is currently the Church School Teacher at
Allen AME Church in Tacoma, Washington.
He is currently a member of the Fellowship of Church Educators for the
AME Church.
19. MEDITATION BASED ON
ISAIAH 40:21-31:
*The Rev. Dr. Joseph A. Darby
I write this meditation as our family prepares for this week’s
“big move” move from the parsonage of Morris Brown AME Church in Charleston,
South Carolina to our new residence…a well-appointed and commodious house in a
good neighborhood five minutes away from what has been our residence for the
last fifteen years.
My friend, colleague and successor at Morris Brown AME Church,
the Reverend Charles Watkins, graciously agreed to a two month “relocation”
window, but we still wanted to vacate the parsonage as soon as possible. We looked at a lot of houses - none of which
was quite the right “fit” for us - but we kept on looking until we found the
house that met all of our needs and expectations and seemed to just be waiting
for us. We were tempted to simply settle
for what was adequate, but we waited until we found exactly what we needed, and
we found it right on time.
Remember our family’s “house hunting” experience in a world
where we all hunt for peace of mind, joy and security. Those things can
sometimes be elusive, and it’s easy for the best of us to settle for whatever
or whoever looks and sounds good and is within easy, immediate reach. We often find out, however, that what looks
and sounds good can actually be no more than a tempting illusion with “strings
attached,” that what was immediately within reach turned out not to be what was
best for us, and that it’s easy to end up not with desired satisfaction, but
with utter disappointment.
It’s easy in this world to go after what’s easy and convenient,
but when we take the time to let the God who made us and granted us salvation
through God's Son be our guide, we can learn to patiently wait on the Lord to
lead and guide us. When we do so, we’ll
find enduring blessings, sure hope, consistent joy and real peace of mind.
Take the time each day to leave your needs with God in prayer
and seek to God’s direction for your life.
You can then face life with faith - even in a world that advocates
instant results and easy answers - and know why those who patiently endured the
chains of American slavery until God set them free first sang, “He may not come
when you want Him, but He’s right on time.”
Get Ready for Sunday, and have a great day in your house of
worship!
*The Rev. Dr. Joseph A. Darby is the Presiding Elder of the
Beaufort District of the South Carolina Annual Conference
20. EPISCOPAL AND CLERGY
FAMILY CONGRATULATORY ANNOUNCEMENTS:
--Son and daughter of
Bishop Jeffrey and Dr. Susan Leath receive graduate degrees
Bishop Jeffrey Leath, Presiding Prelate of the Thirteenth
Episcopal District and Dr. Susan Leath, Episcopal Supervisor, share great news
of the graduation of their son and elder daughter.
Jeffrey N. Leath II will be conferred with a Masters of Science
in Engineering (Aerospace Engineering) by the University of Michigan on May 4,
2013.
The Reverend Jennifer S. Leath will be conferred with a Doctor
of Philosophy Degree in African American Studies and Religion (with concentration
in Ethics) by Yale University on May 20, 2013.
Congratulations may be shared with the graduates at: jentorjay@aol.com
-- The Reverend Dr.
Michael W. Waters honored with Humanitarian Award
The Reverend Dr. Michael W. Waters, founder and Senior Pastor of
Joy Tabernacle AME Church in Dallas, Texas was honored with The Humanitarian
Award of the South Dallas Business and Professional Women's Club, Inc. of The
National Association of Negro Business and Professional Women's Club, Inc. at
the 50th Annual V. Alyce Foster Trailblazer Luncheon on Saturday, April 27,
2013. Over 600 persons were in attendance at the Hilton Anatole Hotel Grand
Ballroom for the ceremony. The award is given "to an individual who asserts
the dignity and worth of every human being and their capacity for
self-realization" and who has "a way of life centered on human
interests and values."
Dr. Waters has also been accepted to begin studies as a Ph.D.
student in the Leadership Studies Program at Dallas Baptist University. He will
matriculate beginning summer 2013.
Congratulatory remarks may be sent to
pastor.mike@joytabernacleame.org
21. EPISCOPAL FAMILY
BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
We regret to inform you of the passing of Mrs. Bernadine Murray,
the wife of the Rev. Dr. Cecil Murray, retired pastor of First African
Methodist Episcopal Church, Los Angeles, California and the sister of the Rt.
Reverend Philip R. Cousin, Sr. (Retired)
Mrs. Bernadine Murray transitioned on Saturday, April 27, 2013
at 7:35 PST!
Service arrangements for Mrs. Bernadine Murray, wife of the
Reverend Dr. Cecil L. Chip Murray, retired pastor of First AME Church, Los
Angeles, CA; mother of the Reverend Drew David Murray; sister of the Rt.
Reverend Philip R. Cousin, Sr. (retired), and sister-in-law of Dr. M. Joan
Cousin, Episcopal Supervisor (retired).
Homegoing Service:
Friday, May 3, 2013 at 10:00 a.m.
First AME Church of Los Angeles
2270 South Harvard Boulevard
Los Angeles, California 90018
Telephone: (323) 730-7750
Fax: (323) 735-7829
The Reverend J. Edgar Boyd, Pastor
The Rt. Reverend T. Larry Kirkland, Presiding Prelate, Fifth
Episcopal District
Professional services entrusted to:
Angelus Funeral Home
3875 South Crenshaw Blvd.
Los Angeles, Ca. 90008
Toll Free: (800) 348-3939
Office: (323) 296-6666
Fax: (323) 296-1302
Contact Information:
The Reverend Dr. Cecil L. Chip Murray and family
1821 Larkwood Avenue
Los Angeles, CA 90043
Bishop and Mrs. Philip Robert Cousin, Sr.
1322 Rosemary Drive
Bolingbrook, IL 60490
Phone: 815-577-9706
Email Condolences:
The Rev. Dr. Cecil L. Murray and family
4821 Parkglenn Ave.
Los Angeles, CA 90043
Bishop Philip Cousin: prc7696@aol.com
Dr. M. Joan Cousin: mjoancousin@aol.com
Online Condolences may be posted on the First AME Church web
site:
22. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICES AND
CONGRATULATORY ANNOUNCEMENTS PROVIDED BY:
Ora L. Easley, Administrator
AMEC Clergy Family Information Center
Email: Amespouses1@bellsouth.net
Web page: http://www.amecfic.org/
Phone: (615) 837-9736 (H)
Phone: (615) 833-6936 (O)
Cell: (615) 403-7751
Twitter: https://twitter.com/AMEC_CFIC
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/The-AME-Church-Clergy-Family-Information-Center/167202414220
23. CONDOLENCES TO THE BEREAVED FROM THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER:
The Chair of the Commission on Publications, the Right Reverend
T. Larry Kirkland; 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.
