THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER ONLINE ENGLISH EDITION (02/21/14)

The Right Reverend 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

Ash Wednesday: March 5, 2014

Sunday, March 9 at 2 a.m.: Daylight Saving Time (United States) 2014 begins

Easter: April 20, 2014

1. TCR EDITORIAL – HOLY COMMUNION, WORSHIP AND THE RATIONALE FOR THE WEARING OF ROBES BY CLERGY (Part 2):

Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III

The 20^th Editor of The Christian Recorder

I have noticed when candidates for ministry are presented to the bishop, they are properly attired, the men in dark suits, white shirts, and ties; and the women dressed in conservative suits or dresses, dark shoes; and all of the candidates are in possession of their Bibles, The Doctrine and Discipline of the AMEC, and the AMEC Hymnal. They are the epitome of well-dressed applicants for ministry in the African Methodist Episcopal Church.

On the other hand, anybody who watches television has seen Christian preachers preaching in all kinds of outfits.  We have seen preachers, even bishops, wearing bodybuilding shirts and other athletic gear. Some preachers preach in jeans, dashikis, and some wear kufis, a skull cap worn by Muslims (and the crown-style worn with formal West African attire); and yamakas, the skullcap worn by Jews.

Women clergy wear various outfits too. If you check the internet and maybe even personal observation, we find various images of women preachers’ attire. Some women preachers prefer low-cut blouses, short dresses, and high-platform shoes. Some women wear jewelry of all types and colors to include necklaces, rings, sometimes on more than one finger; and some have become creative with decorative fingernail art.

Some men clergy preach in unbuttoned shirts and sports coats, sometimes, no jackets; leisure suits, bow ties, colorful ties and suits of all colors and styles. Some preachers have special-made suits with all kinds of decorative symbols. I saw one preacher with the yin-yang philosophical image of the Far Eastern religious philosophies and on another occasion, a pastor who had Arabic calligraphy for Allah on his both of his sleeves.

I have noticed that some pastors wear hair-styles that are related to, or had its origins in the drug culture of the 1960s and in some locations today the hair style might send the perception of an acceptance to drugs, particularly, ganja.

Dress is important and dress does send signals. Parents try to tell young people about the importance of dress, especially when they are in the public eye and most particularly when they are looking for jobs. Young men wearing sagging pants do not make an impressionable image when they are looking for employment. Young women would do better to dress conservatively rather than provocatively.

Various professions have dress-codes and standards; sometimes written and sometimes unwritten, but understood by those who want to advance in the profession.

Some professions have uniforms, e.g., the military, law enforcement, bus drivers, service providers and others. Other professions have symbols and special articles of clothing. Medical doctors wear white coats and might have a stethoscope and while nurses no longer wear the white starched uniform, they seem to always have a stethoscope around their necks; the stethoscope sets them apart. Barbers have uniforms as do postal workers. Athletes wear uniforms and they are distinct from the uniforms of the referees. 

Lawyers don’t have uniforms per se, but courtrooms and judges have dress codes for attorneys and judges wear robes, which set them apart and add dignity and decorum to the legal system.    

The clergy

The clergy wear of robes, in African Methodist churches and in other denominations, is done because the robe is a reminder to parishioners that the preacher is functioning as the priest and prophet of God. The robe is worn because it accentuates the ministerial office and adds dignity and decorum to the worship service.  

Roman Catholic, Orthodox, Lutheran, Presbyterian/Reformed, Anglican / Episcopalian and Methodist / Wesleyan clergy have worn robes and vestments as a mark of reverence. The African Methodist Episcopal Church clergy has historically and traditionally worn robes during worship services since the late 19^th Century.

Of course I know…  

And I want you to know too, both Bishop Richard Allen and Bishop Daniel Payne did not embrace the wearing of robes because they thought the Methodists should be attired in simplicity and solemnity and to avoid all appearances of being Anglican.

But on the other hand

Bishop Turner, more than any other AME leader, starting in the 1880s, advocated the wearing of robes in order to demonstrate that AME clergy was a part of an orthodox and mainstream Christian body. He could be at times grandiose like advocating a House of Bishops along with an archbishop, but his views on Methodist dignity with simplicity conformed to the perspectives of Allen and Payne.

The AME Church embraced the thinking of Bishop Henry McNeal Turner and the sacredness of wearing robes stuck and the AME Clergy embraced the robe as a mark of reverence and robes became our signature uniform for worship.

The significant spiritual reason why preachers should wear robes

I was taught that robes were worn, not only as a mark of reverence and to lift up the ministerial office, but also to deemphasize the preacher in the pulpit.  The pulpit is the place where sermons are preached and the sacred space from which God speaks to the people of God through the man or woman who was called by God and who accepted the challenge to speak the Word of God.

The robe covers and separates the secular dress of the world and that’s reason enough for preachers to wear robes. The robe should remind people of the sacredness of the profession of ministry. The robe should not only be a reminder to parishioners, but a reminder to the preacher that he or she is set apart for the sacred mission of proclaiming the Word of God.  

Suits, dresses and other non-worship attire, jewelry and other secular distractions can draw parishioners’ minds from the sacredness of worship to the dress and appearance of the individual.

Robes add dignity and preachers are equal when they wear robes. Some pastors’ body builds, whether slim, slightly over-weight or obese might be a distraction to worship.  Wearing the robe “equalizes the playing field.” Some pastors are dapper dressers and have their clothes and dresses tailored and others buy clothes off the rack. The distinction between the two can be a distraction.

I saw a woman preacher in the pulpit with a dress that looked like she was going to work in somebody’s kitchen. I have seen men in the pulpit that looked like they were going to a club. I have seen other preachers who looked liked they were models for Macy’s or Lord and Taylor. I have seen preachers with so much glitter and bling that parishioners and clergy sitting nearby whispered about it. Wearing robes keeps the focus on the reverence of worship.

Worship is sacred and parishioners do not need and should not have any distractions.

Simply stated, the robe helps parishioners to focus their attention on the message rather than to the messenger.

If applicants for the ministry are held to a dress standard why do so many pastors want to be considered “one of the guys or one of the gals?” 

Members of the clergy are not “one of the guys or one of the gals.” The call to ministry is a sacred profession and clergy are set apart when proclaiming God’s Word.  As other professionals wear uniforms, AME should wear robes, at least during the Sunday morning worship service.

One more thing

In the military and in the civilian sector, I have noticed that some pastors from denominations who shy away from robes always wore them when conducting weddings.  I suspect they wore them at weddings because the robe added dignity and decorum to that sacred event. Well, I believe that every worship service is a sacred event.

TCR Editor’s Comment: The Christian Recorder welcomes and solicits opposing-editorial (op-ed) articles. Please feel free to share your comments.

2. READER RESPONSE TO EDITORIAL AND OTHER ISSUES: 

--To the Editor:

RE: TCR Editorial, "Does Anyone Care?"

I really enjoyed the article that was recently written, “Does Anyone Care." I feel there are not enough people that care.

I was raised AME. I left after being told by Pentecostals that I was going to hell if I didn’t leave. Well, after serving as deacon, praise leader, I have seen first-hand the chaos that comes from a lack of order. I have been looking to going back to the AME Church, so that my children can have the same rich experience that I had. My wife and I went to visit an AME church near my home. I was just simply shocked and saddened by what I saw and heard. The service started excellently and they even had an altar prayer, but all of a sudden, while the choir was singing a young lady dressed like a boy started rapping and then a group of sagging pants, underwear showing boys and girls began bopping through the church rapping. It really killed the spirit. I was so disappointed.  I had even told my wife before this display that I was going to join the church, but l changed my mind. I really can't blame the pastor because he was just appointed there. The church is very large and empty. I feel that the AME church needs to go back to being AME and stop trying to be Pentecostal or Baptist. It's okay (and even appropriate) to sing a hymn that's in the AMEC Hymnal." The worship experience I had when I recently attended the AME Church certainly is not the AME church I remember. For Instance, my three younger sisters were not allowed to wear pants or fingernail-polish to church and now people are rapping in the chancel area. I understand things change, but some things need to remain the same. 

All I can say is “Stay AME,” ungodliness kills a church.

Elvis Williams

3. FOUNDER’S DAY MESSAGE FROM THE COUNCIL OF BISHOPS:

The Council of Bishops

Jeffrey N. Leath, 128^th Bishop

Acting President

A Founder’s Day Message

Today marks the 254th year since the birth of Bishop Richard Allen.  The African Methodist Episcopal Church celebrates each year on the second Sunday of February and other days near this day.  It is a time to honor the man and his special gifts.  We gather in awe of the moving of God in Allen’s life and times, and we reflect on our challenges with an eye on the divine instructions for our age.

Allen passed to us noble values including:  liberation, justice, self-determination, education, and economic empowerment, to name a few. Foremost, he preached Jesus; he issued the call for salvation and encouraged the pursuit of holiness through a life of discipleship.  In addition, Allen showed flexibility and openness to change that made him agile in leadership.  Are we so available to the Holy Spirit that we can modify goals and expectations to meet the realities of present trials?

We are proud of the establishment of a day school for the education of children by Allen, the pastor of Bethel Church in Philadelphia.  Although the school did not survive, Allen did not abandon the mission to uplift our people.  Rather, he accepted the limitation of resources and charted other courses.  The accomplishment is recorded, but Allen moved forward without looking back.

Allen categorically denied Jarena Lee the opportunity to preach on her first request.  Yet, he stretched his experience of custom to embrace a new work of the Holy Spirit.  Today, we are reaping the fruits of exceptional women in ministry as God moved through Richard Allen. 

We face new issues of institutional development and social evolution.  What does the spirit of Richard Allen say to us?  How will the Holy Spirit direct us to preach salvation and nurture disciples; liberate the oppressed and advocate for justice?  Rise up Church of Allen, the present age awaits ministry!  Indeed, children of freedom, the Church is moving on!

Let us pray:

Gracious God, we thank you for the life and labors of Bishop Richard Allen.  We thank you for his ministry of liberation.  We praise you as the mantle of personal and social ministry falls to our hands.  We are grateful for the expansion of the Allenite passion for service to and by people of color beyond the shores of the United States.  We celebrate your loving kindness in numerous languages and in many nations.

Forgive us for not always choosing the best paths.  Deflate those passions which blind us to your will. Grant us wisdom and courage to address the needs of our day.

Yellow fever was a test for Allen; help us with the holy response to HIV/AIDS.  Patriot Allen gathered a militia; make us vigilant patriots in our respective countries by exercising the right to vote. 

We ask you to break the chains of health and economic disparities.  Bring peace and understanding in places of war.  Hear the cries and heal the wounds of suffering humankind.  Reinforce our testimony of the love of Christ.  Strengthen us to make strong disciples.  Bless us in every land, and pour out your Holy Spirit to give us the courage and direction to fulfill your will.  Amen.

4. OPEN LETTER FROM BISHOP PRESTON W. WILLIAMS II REGARDING MORRIS BROWN COLLEGE:

February 20, 2014

As I have done in the past, this correspondence is intended to provide you, the loyal alumni, family and friends of Morris Brown College, with a status report on our progress toward emergence from bankruptcy.

You may, or may not, have heard that WH Solis, LLC, an entity backed by developer Pope & Land, has informed Morris Brown College that it is unwilling and unable to proceed to close the transaction underlying Morris Brown College’s First Amended Chapter 11 Plan of Reorganization on the terms that it previously agreed. This unfortunate development has required Morris Brown College to consider other options so that it can resolve its existing debts and successfully emerge from the Chapter 11 process.

In order to best ensure that we are able to complete an alternative transaction that will provide the College with sufficient proceeds to satisfy its existing debts and sustain future operations, Morris Brown College has engaged the services of Jones Lang LaSalle, a well-respected and nationally recognized real estate firm, to advise and assist us with evaluating proposals and marketing certain college properties.

Through the efforts of Jones Lang LaSalle, the College will be able to receive proposals from a broader pool of prospective purchasers, which will enable the College to consider and select the offers with the best chance of closing and meeting the needs of the College, its students and its creditors.

Although the College was greatly disappointed that WH Solis, LLC and Pope & Land would not consummate their agreement with Morris Brown College, the College, with the assistance of Jones Lang LaSalle, is presently considering several alternative transactions and preparing to aggressively market properties with the goal of maximizing its options for a successful reorganization.

Indeed, in the next several days, a press release will be published with the goal of announcing our engagement of Jones Lang LaSalle and attracting serious investors and others interested in the College properties. Shortly thereafter, the College anticipates filing and seeking Bankruptcy Court approval of this engagement and a process by which it will consummate a transaction to generate proceeds to fund an alternate Chapter 11 plan and emerge from the Chapter 11 process. Our next scheduled hearing in the U. S. Bankruptcy Court is March 6, 2014.

This has not been an easy process. But as we said and sang at our most recent prayer vigil, “we have come this far by faith, leaning on the LORD.” As we continue to work through obstacles, and what I believe to be land grabs by folks who want to take our beloved Morris Brown College away from us, we appreciate your prayers and continued support.

Sincerely,

The Right Reverend Dr. Preston W. Williams II

Chairman, Board of Trustees, Morris Brown College

5. HONOR FOR AFRICAN FOR AMERICAN METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH SCHOLAR:

Dr. David H. Jackson, professor and chair of the department of history at Florida A&M University in Tallahassee, received the 2013 Equity Award from the American Historical Association. The award is presented to individuals who have achieved excellence in recruiting and retaining underrepresented racial and ethnic groups in the historical profession.

Professor Jackson earned bachelor and master’s degrees at Florida A&M University. He holds a Ph.D. in history from the University of Memphis in Tennessee.

He is the author of Booker T. Washington and the Struggle Against White Supremacy: The Southern Educational Tours, 1908-1912 (Palgrave Macmillan, 2009).

Dr. Jackson, an AME, is son to the late Reverend David Jackson who was the pastor of Cosmopolitan AME Church in Atlanta, Georgia.

6. NOTED AUTHOR AND THEOLOGIAN DR. JAMES H. CONE WILL LECTURE AT SHORTER COLLEGE FOR FOUNDER’S DAY CELEBRATION:

North Little Rock, Arkansas. Dr. James Hal Cone, best known for his black liberation theology, will be a guest lecturer for the African Methodist Episcopal Church’s 12^th Episcopal District Founder’s Day Celebration, February 20 - 22, 2014 on the Shorter College campus. As part of the Richard Allen Lecture Series, Cone will present on Friday, February 21 at 10 a.m. and at 3 p.m. in the Belin Healthplex.

Cone was born in Fordyce, Arkansas and grew up in Bearden, Arkansas. He and his family attended Macedonia African Methodist Episcopal Church. After attending Shorter College, He received a B.A. degree from Philander Smith College in Arkansas in 1958, a B.D. degree from Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary in 1961, and M.A. and Ph.D. degrees from Northwestern University in 1963 and 1965, respectively. He taught theology and religion at Philander Smith College, Adrian College in Michigan, and beginning in 1970 at Union Theological Seminary in New York City, where he was awarded the distinguished Charles A. Briggs Chair in systematic theology in 1977.

Cone is known for his published works:

Black Theology and Black Power (1969, ISBN 1-57075-157-9), A Black Theology of Liberation (1970, ISBN 0-88344-685-5), The Spirituals and the Blues: An Interpretation (1972 ISBN 0-8164-2073-4), God of the Oppressed (1975, ISBN 1-57075-158-7), The Black Church and Marxism: what do they have to say to each other New York: Institute for Democratic Socialism (1980), For My People: Black Theology and the Black Church (Where Have We Been and Where Are We Going?) (1984, ISBN 0-88344-106-3), Martin & Malcolm & America: A Dream or a Nightmare? (1992, ISBN 0-88344-824-6), Risks of Faith: The Emergence of a Black Theology of Liberation, 1968-1998 (1999, ISBN 0-8070-0950-4), The Cross and the Lynching Tree (2011, ISBN 978-1-57075-937-6)

The African Methodist Episcopal Church, usually called the A.M.E. Church, is a predominantly African-American Methodist denomination based in the United. It was founded by the Rev. Richard Allen in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, in 1816 from several black Methodist congregations in the mid-Atlantic area that wanted independence from white Methodists. Allen was consecrated its first bishop in 1816.

About Shorter College

Shorter College is a two-year, private, co-educational, liberal-arts college located in North Little Rock, Arkansas, United States. It is the only private, two-year private historically black college in the nation. With a Spring 2014 enrollment of 464 students, Shorter College is the fastest-growing campus in Central Arkansas.

Degrees Offered

Currently, Shorter College offers two-year Associate’s Level Degrees in the area of General Studies with concentrations in Basic Studies, Teacher Education and Christian Leadership.

For more information about Shorter College, visit www.shortercollege.edu  or call (501) 374-6305.

7. WILBERFORCE NAMES INTERIM PRESIDENT AT FOUNDER'S DAY EVENT:

By Wayne Baker

Wilberforce University held its 158th Founder’s Day Observance celebration Tuesday morning. The keynote speaker was Democrat Tracy Maxwell Heard, Minority Leader of the Ohio House of Representatives. Heard's speech delivered an announcement regarding the university's immediate future.

As the crowd of over 200 people listened to the minority leader speak, they were surprised to hear that trustee Dr. Wilma Mishoe has been named interim president of Wilberforce. The announcement was supposed to be made at a later date.

Mishoe, whose father was the president of an historical black college, says she wasn't fazed by the premature announcement and looks forward to guiding Wilberforce into a new chapter and tackling the hurdles that lie ahead, which includes an enrollment that has declined below 500 students and a massive debt of over $20 million.

"Today I wear my father's presidential robe. It is truly an honor and that's a part of my numbness," Mishoe said.  "I cannot believe that it has evolved the way it has. But I have no aspirations beyond being interim and [I am] just smoothing the way for the next permanent president of Wilberforce."

House Minority Leader Heard's speech centered on the Resurrection, something that she believes Wilberforce University will do.

"I'm committed to making sure that Wilberforce remains here because this is a jewel that belongs not only to the graduates of Wilberforce but to the entire African-American community," Heard said.

Former Wilberforce president Patricia Hardaway resigned in December. Trustees say a search for a permanent replacement will continue with no immediate timetable in place to reach a decision.

Read More: http://wyso.org/post/wilberforce-names-interim-president-founders-day-event

8. SHORTER COLLEGE CHOIR SINGS FOR THE ARKANSAS BLACK HISTORY COMMISSION

February 19, 2014 (North Little Rock, AR). The Shorter College has made “leaps and bounds” to exhibit a high standard of excellence. 

On Thursday, Feb 13, 2014, the Shorter College Choir was invited to sing for the event, “Past and Present Arkansas African American Legislators,” an event sponsored by the Arkansas Black History Commission and the Arkansas History Commission. The program honors Arkansas African American Legislators, former community leaders and included a presentation of resolutions to current legislators. The event was held at the State Capitol Rotunda.

Among the honorees were former Representative Tracy Steele (D-39^th District), Representative Fred Love (D-35^th District) and Representative Eddie Armstrong (D-37^th District).

Shorter College President, O. Jerome Green, was recognized for the excellent work he is doing at Shorter College.

“The Shorter College Choir did an excellent job. The sound was so amazing. They gave me chills,” stated Carla Coleman, chair of the Black History Commission of Arkansas.

Arkansas Governor Mike Beebe greeted the attendees.

About Shorter College

Shorter College is a two-year, private, co-educational, liberal-arts college located in North Little Rock, Arkansas, United States. It is the only private, two-year private historically black college in the nation. With a Spring 2014 enrollment of 464 students, Shorter College is the fastest-growing campus in Central Arkansas.

History, Mission, Vision

Founded in 1886 by the African Methodist Episcopal Church, Shorter College is a historically black college (HBCU) with a mission of “providing an accessible, affordable, high quality education for students to accomplish their academic or career goals by offering programs that meet the learner’s need in a challenging and nurturing Christian environment.” Shorter College’s open enrollment policy makes obtaining an associate’s level degree possible for any person having earned a high school diploma or GED completion from an accredited institution. Small, intimate classroom settings and an outstanding faculty create an enjoyable and supportive atmosphere for learning that empowers students to excel toward the pursuit of academic excellence.

Degrees Offered

Currently, Shorter College offers two-year Associate’s Level Degrees in the area of General Studies with concentrations in Basic Studies, Teacher Education and Christian Leadership.

For more information about Shorter College, visit www.shortercollege.edu  or call (501) 374-6305.

ST. PETER’S AME HONORS “DUKE” FAKIR:

MINNEAPOLIS, MN – Abdul “Duke” Fakir, founding member of the legendary Motown group, The Four Tops, will be honored in Minneapolis on February 23rd. Fakir will receive a Living Legend award during the 10 a.m. service at St. Peter’s AME Church, 401 E. 41st St. in South Minneapolis.

Fakir, father of St. Peter’s AME Church’s pastor, the Reverend Nazim B. Fakir, is a 60-year entertainment veteran. “My dad, Abdul ‘Duke’ Fakir, the sole remaining original member of the Four Tops, is considered entertainment royalty in Detroit and many parts of the world. Having that influence while growing up really opened up the world to me and broadened my thinking as it relates to what is possible to achieve in life. At age 78 he’s still working, and doing what he loves,” said the Rev. Fakir.

Fakir will be recognized for his trailblazing work as an entertainer, role model and inspiration for young musicians and music lovers across America and around the world. A meet and greet and question and answer session with Fakir will be held immediately following the service. The public is invited.

9. BROWN COMMEMORATES MARTIN LUTHER KING JR. WITH A UNITY WALK AND ECUMENICAL SERVICE:

By Reverend Salatheia Bryant-Honors

Houston, Texas - Brown Chapel celebrated the legacy of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. with a Saturday morning neighborhood unity walk and a Sunday unity service that brought a large number of visitors to the church.

Unity Sunday was first introduced last year and was such a popular event that efforts were made to add a three-mile unity walk in the neighborhood called the Walk on Washington. Brown Chapel is located on Washington Avenue, a busy street in this city that has a population of more than 4 million. The walk was the idea of young adult member LaShawnta Beedles.

The walk was modeled after the marches that King and other Civil Rights leaders took part in that changed the consciousness of America.

On a clear Saturday morning a diverse group joined the walk that went down Washington Avenue and back again to the church. Each member selected a walking partner whom they did not know to complete the route. The object of the walk was to allow people of different backgrounds to walk together so that they could witness the diversity of the kingdom of God to motorists travelling down Washington or residents and business owners along the strip. The walk also allowed the participants to become acquainted with someone of another ethnic group.

The walkers were noticed as they made their way peacefully along the route en masse greeting those whom they came into contact with along the journey.

 

During the three-mile journey relationships were formed.

Lilly Chu walked with Brown Chapel associate minister Annie McGilber. She was invited to join the walk by another Brown Chapel visitor who heard about the event.

“As a passionate believer in peace and social justice, I was delighted to join this walk as a visible sign of God's love as we are the hands and feet of Christ in this world,” said Chu. “I certainly enjoyed the fellowship with Miss Annie and learned from her wisdom. Our world is changing and it is up to us to do our part by teaching our youth to have integrity and respect for each other.”

The walk started in the parking lot of Brown Chapel with personal introductions. The Mary Brown Women’s Missionary Society provided the walkers with fruit and water.

When the walkers returned to the church the group sang We Shall Overcome, a song that was a mainstay of the Civil Rights Movement, and ended with everyone holding hands in prayer.

Gustavo H. Villalpando, who was invited to the walk by Brown member Marguerite Butler, a professor at Texas Southern University, said he enjoyed walking a portion of the route with Reverend Reginald Honors as they talked about family, education and building a better community.

“It was a wonderful, wonderful way to mark the King Holiday,” said Villalpando. “I’m very glad that the weather cooperated as it was a nice day to take a stroll and meet some great people.”

Children and adults of all ages, blacks, Hispanics and whites participated in the walk.

Brown young adult member Tiffany Holland invited her friend Cherae Stephens. Stephens walked with her sons Jonovan, 4, and Corbin, 6, who both successfully completed the walk.

“It was a new and wonderful experience,” said Stephens.

Beedles was pleased with the response for this first time event. She said not only did walkers meet new people but the community was also introduced to Brown Chapel. Brown has been located in that community for 132 years. It is located in a neighborhood that has undergone a racial and economic shift.

“The community must be aware of where the church is, who we are, and what we do,” said Beedles. “To make the community aware of these things the church should be visible.  It's amazing how much a walk can draw in the community. It was a wonderful opportunity to learn about the church community outside the walls of the church.”

Efforts are already underway to include an African American art and quilt display next year.

Brown continued the celebration on Sunday morning with its Unity Service that also brought a number of visitors to the service.

The Reverend Ken Shuman, a professor at the Houston Graduate School of Theology was the guest preacher. He preached the message:" The Way Things are Supposed to be."

The service brought back some people who attended last year’s augural unity service.

One worshipper who came to the service last year alone brought his wife with him this year. Next year, he said, he hopes to also bring his son.

10. TWO ORGANIZATIONS CLOSING BLACK HISTORY MONTH WITH A BANG:

By:  Delanda S. Johnson

Guest Writer

Henderson County Black History Committee and Johnson Chapel AME Church both are looking forward to a big bang at the end of February. On Saturday, February 22, 2014 at the Malakoff Community/Senior Center, the Henderson County Black History Committee will host its Annual Scholarship banquet. Seventeen recipients will be honored at the scholarship banquet.

The theme for Black History month is: “Civil Rights in America” with a sub-theme: “A light in the Darkness.”   The speaker for the evening will be Ms. Shani Scott; Hot 107.3 Jamz Brand Manager (Home of the Steve Harvey Show) in Tyler, Texas. Ms. Scott began her radio career in August 1994 and has also achieved becoming a published author, actress, and spokesperson for various organizations.

Shani Scott hits the air ways every Monday – Friday from 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. on Hot 107.3 Jamz.  She is also the host of Townsquare Media’s East Texas Today, which airs every Sunday from 7 a.m. - 7:30 a.m. on Hot 107.3 Jamz, 101.5 KNUE, Mix 93-1 and Classic Rock 96.1. Shani can also be heard in the Temple/Killeen market on Townsquare Media’s B106.

On May 3, 2010, she suffered a massive stroke and had to go through extensive rehabilitation and had to learn to walk, read and write again; and she did so. Shani Scott is the proud mother of 2 beautiful daughters and believes that with Faith, all things are possible.

Coming off the heels of the Henderson County Black History Committee scholarship banquet, Johnson Chapel AME Church in Malakoff, Texas will host its Annual Lay/Men’s Day program on Sunday, February 23, 2014 at 3:30 p.m. This event will close Black History month with a powerful message from the Rev. Dr. C. Dennis Williams, Pastor of Smith Chapel AME Church in Dallas, Texas.

The Rev. Dr. C. Dennis Williams is from Santa Ana, California. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in History and Religion from Paul Quinn College (Waco, TX Campus) and a Master of Arts in Biblical Studies from Bethany Theological Seminary in Dothan Alabama. He did work towards his Master of Divinity from United Theological Seminary in Dayton Ohio, and received the Doctor of Ministry degree from United Theological Seminary. He is an Itinerant Elder in the African Methodist Episcopal Church and was licensed to preach in 1976 by the Quarterly Conference at Johnson Chapel AME Church in Santa Ana, California.  He was ordained an Itinerant Deacon in 1981 in the Central Texas Conference of the 10th Episcopal District, and ordained as an Itinerant Elder in 1985 of the Southern California Conference of the 5th Episcopal District.

Dr. Williams has been preaching for 37 years and has served as a pastor for 28 years. He has served the A.M.E. Church, both at the local level and connectional levels. He has served as a delegate to several General Conferences, a member of the General Board and has also led several of his local churches in debt relief, mortgage liquidation, and increase in memberships, church foreclosures, and legal challenges. He presently serves as a Board of Trustee at Paul Quinn College in Dallas. He is a published author with his first book entitled, “An Ecclesiastical Model for HIV/AIDS” and is working on his second book, which should be released this year, entitled “Pastoring in Scandalous Pasture.”

The Rev. Dr. Williams is married with three children and a grandson. He is the proud pastor of Smith Chapel AME Church in Dallas

11. 2014 JUBILEE PRAYER TEAM ARTICLE:

(Part 1 of 4)

The Jubilee General Conference 2016 Prayer and Intercessory Team is an Ad Hoc Committee comprised of clergy and laity Christian males and females. The major purpose is to provide the biblical mandate of praying and fasting for our leaders, which would include all bishops, general officers, connectional officers, presiding elders, clergy, laity, all children, the leaders of all countries and souls of those who are yet lost.

We have been under the leadership of the late Bishop Sarah F. Davis, until her most recent passing, and our servant coordinator is the Rev. Dorisalene Hughes who serves as the Co-Director of Fifth Episcopal District Prayer. The team is comprised of males and females from around the world in all of the Connectional Districts. 

We have a mission and an objective in the order of what we do and how we go about doing it. This will be the first of a four-part article submitted to enlighten, confirm and educate the readers of these articles on who those people were that waved the many spiritual flags during the last General Conference of the African Methodist Episcopal Church which was held in Nashville, Tennessee in July of 2012.

This harmonious team of clergy and laity meet by teleconference calls and conduct the business of training in Putting On The Whole Amour of God, the Biblical Principles of Fasting and Praying, How to fast, the Purpose of blowing the shofars, the meaning of various hours of prayer, as well as many other topics. 

The prayer team has volunteers that conduct research, keep minutes, and many other aspects of operations. 

Please stay tuned to this spot for the next articles that will be submitted and will go further in depth about this team of Jubilee General Conference 2016 Prayer Warriors for our Zion. To God be the Glory.

Submitted by:  Evangelist, Dr. Val Eloby-Slade

12. NAACP STATEMENT ON THE MICHAEL DUNN VERDICT: THERE ARE NO WINNERS IN THIS CASE:

Adora Obi Nweze, President of the Florida State NAACP:

“The State of Florida has spoken and 47-year old Michael Dunn will have to answer for some of his crimes relating to having opened fire on an SUV filled with unarmed black teenagers. Today a jury convicted Dunn on four counts for the attempted murder of Tevin Thompson, Leland Brunson, and Tommy Storns, the three teens in the car with Jordan. The judge declared mistrial on the count of first-degree murder that applied to the death of Jordan Davis.

While prosecutors have stated they will retry Michael Dunn for the murder of Jordan Davis, there are no winners in this case.  Two parents will forever remain without their only son; three other young men had their lives changed forever and the State of Florida and the country as a whole is left to deal with yet another senseless murder of an innocent young man whose life was cut short for no other reason than the color of his skin.  Young, black men are not thugs or suspicious by definition; and this important verdict reconfirms that those who commit crimes based on those misplaced preconceptions will not go unpunished.

The NAACP will continue to push for a change in the laws that make these types of crimes more prevalent and the punishment for their commission, less likely.  Stand Your Ground laws create an environment that places far too many people, especially young African-American men, at risk of losing their lives as a result of nothing more than the perception that someone "feels" threatened.  The only possible result of assigning life and death decision-making authority to anyone with a gun is the unnecessary loss of innocent lives.

The NAACP will continue to work with the State of Florida and the other 33 states across the country who currently maintain some form of stand your ground law to repeal these inherently discriminatory laws.  People should be allowed to live without constant fear that their lives are at risk just because of someone's offensive- often race-based—perception.  Inappropriate stereotyping should not carry a penalty of death for black youth.”

Niaz Kasravi, NAACP Criminal Justice Director:

"This case is a perfect example of how stand your ground laws are illogical and often lead to tragic outcomes, especially to people of color who often end up on the wrong side of the weapon,” stated Dr. Niaz Kasravi, NAACP Criminal Justice Director.  To help prevent future tragedies such as the death of Jordan Davis, we must repeal stand your grounds laws and bring back common sense self-defense policies in every state across this country.”

Kevin Myles, NAACP Region 5 Director:

“I'm happy that Michael Dunn will now be off the streets, but my heart is heavy for that fact that he was not held accountable for the young life he stole,” stated Kevin Myles, NAACP Region 5 Director. “That said; I applaud the prosecutors’ decision to retry the 1st degree murder charge and look forward to justice being served.”

13. LEARN THE TRUE HISTORY OF CHEROKEES AT SMITHSONIAN’S NATIONAL MUSEUM OF THE AMERICAN INDIAN:

Cherokee Nation, Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians partnering on historic event

TAHLEQUAH, Okla. – For the first time in intertribal history, the Cherokee Nation and Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians are partnering to host “Cherokee Days,” a public educational program that shares the true Cherokee story.

The historic event is April 3-5 at the National Museum of the American Indian in Washington, D.C.

The Cherokee Nation and Eastern Band will share the Cherokee story that spans time immemorial to the Trail of Tears to the successes of the modern tribes. The educational program includes an exhibit showcasing a timeline of historical milestones, live cultural art demonstrations and scheduled cultural performances.

“Partnering with the National Museum of the American Indian is a significant opportunity to showcase Cherokee heritage and history at a national level. We will showcase our cultural artisans and historians from the Cherokee Nation, United Keetoowah Band of Cherokee Indians and the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians,” said Cherokee Nation Principal Chief Bill John Baker. “It is important for the Cherokee Nation to participate in this unique event with our Cherokee brothers and sisters. We all come from one fire and we are one people. While we were once divided, today we are unified and our respective sovereign governments are stronger than ever. A critical part of our cultural preservation is embracing and sharing our rich and storied narrative in America’s history and its future.”

Cherokees originally inhabited the lands in what are now present-day Tennessee, North Carolina, Alabama and Georgia. Following the 1838 forced removal of 16,000 Cherokees to present-day Oklahoma, many defied the relocation and remained in North Carolina.

The Cherokees forced along the Trail of Tears were led by Principal Chief John Ross. They established Tahlequah as the Cherokee Nation’s capital in 1839. The Eastern Band, which resides in Cherokee, N. C., became federally recognized in 1868.

In 1984, the tribes met in Red Clay, Tenn., for the first time since the tribe was divided. During the last 30 years, the Cherokee Nation and Eastern Band have worked together on numerous projects, including maintaining a unified language.

“Cherokee Days at the National Museum of the American Indian is a great event for us because we can come together with our family, the Cherokee Nation, to celebrate our shared history and heritage,” said Principal Chief of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians Michell Hicks. “Our tribes have been meeting for more than 25 years to collaborate on issues important to our people, and this event is another opportunity for that collaboration to continue.”

This historic joint endeavor will occur at the National Museum of the American Indian as it celebrates not one, but four exciting milestones: the 25^th anniversary of the signing of the charter establishing the museum; the 20^th anniversary of the opening of the museum in New York City; the 15^th anniversary of the opening of its Cultural Resource Center; and the 10^th anniversary of the opening of the museum on the National Mall in Washington, D.C.

A diverse and multifaceted cultural and educational enterprise, the National Museum of the American Indian is an active and visible component of the Smithsonian Institution, the world's largest museum complex. The NMAI cares for one of the world's most expansive collections of Native artifacts, including objects, photographs, archives and media covering the entire Western Hemisphere, from the Arctic Circle to Tierra del Fuego.

For more information, visit www.nmai.esi.edu.

14. INFORMATION CONCERNING THE 2014 CHRISTIAN METHODIST EPISCOPAL (CME) CHURCH GENERAL CONFERENCE:

Dear Connectional Members and Friends,

The Thirty-Seventh Quadrennial Session and Thirty-Eighth General Conference of the Christian Methodist Episcopal Church will be held June 28 through July 4, 2014 at the Baltimore Convention Center located at 1 W Pratt St in Baltimore, MD.  Bishop and Mrs. Marshall Gilmore and the members of the Seventh Episcopal District will host the General Conference. 

This announcement will provide information about the arrival date for delegates and alternates, general registration for the General Conference, hotel lodging, airport transportation and the rental of electric mobility scooters.

Arrival Date for Delegates and Alternates

Delegates and alternates to the General Conference are requested to arrive on Friday, June 27, 2014 in time to pick up registration materials and check in their hotel room before the Episcopal District Caucus meetings at 7:00 p.m. 

Registration and Hotel Reservations

Register now for the General Conference! The registration fee for the General Conference is $100.  Many hotels in the local area of the Baltimore Convention Center will be used for housing. Please carefully read information about registration processes.

Registration for Delegates and Alternates

The Presiding Bishops will register delegates and alternates from their respective Episcopal Districts and reserve hotel rooms for them.  Delegates and alternates do not have to register for the General Conference or reserve their hotel room.

Registration for All Other Persons (CME Members, Visitors, Guests and Observers):

CME members, visitors, guests and observers may register for the General Conference.  You may register online and immediately reserve your hotel room.  Or you may download a registration form and mail it in. A hotel registration form will be mailed to you. 

Online registration is available at:

www.thecmechurch.org/GeneralConference2014

Transportation 

Airport shuttle service can be arranged from various local companies. Additional information about transportation is available here. 

Electric Mobility Scooters

Wheelchairs and electric mobility scooters are available for rent from local companies. A listing of the companies is available here.  You may contact the vendor directly to make arrangements.

Additional information about the General Conference will be provided as it becomes available and posted to the official CME Web site at www.thecmechurch.org/GeneralConference2014 and will be sent via email to our connectional members and friends.

Bishop Paul A.G. Stewart, Senior Bishop and CEO

Bishop Teresa E. Snorton, Chair

College of Bishops

Dr. Jeanette L. Bouknight

Executive Secretary

Christian Methodist Episcopal Church

"An Essential Church: Poised for 21st Century Ministry"

15. THE TRUTH IS THE LIGHT:

By: Reverend Dr. Charles R. Watkins, Jr.

Based on Biblical Text: Acts 5:29 “Then Peter and the other apostles answered and said, We ought to obey God rather than men.”

The men who founded America came here in search of religious freedom thus; it can be argued that religious freedom has been a driving force in America since its origin. Men and women traveled great distances to escape religious persecution. Rather than succumb to the tyrannical religious hierarchy of their home land they decided to travel, carrying all they could with them, to an unknown land, at great risk to themselves and their loved ones.

Our government found the concept of religious freedom to be the driving force as the laws of the land were established by elected and appointed officials. In fact the rules governing the code of conduct were modeled after the morality established by God in the Holy Bible.  A concept no one would dare challenge until very recently.

What a different era we find ourselves in presently. We are so intent on maximizing our personal freedoms that we dare now to challenge even God. Are we now such a callous people that we turn our back on the God we once affirmed was no respecter of persons and have become a people who do not respect God?

Biblical morality is being challenged on every front. However there is still a mandate, for those of us who are “the called according to God’s purpose”, to safeguard the Word of God at any cost. Battle lines have been drawn and the question for “those who love God” is simply, how far will we go to defend our cause for Christ?

Our text is taken from the 5th chapter of the Acts of the Apostles where we can find both encouragement and guidance.

Though the Apostles were biblical scholars, they were considered to be ordinary men, and they were warned not to speak in Jesus’ name. Peter and John however kept on preaching. We find that Peter and John in spite of the warnings of imprisonment and even death have taken a stand for the Lord by boldly preaching the unadulterated Word of God everywhere they travel. They now find themselves standing before the Jewish high court with little defense for their actions.

To make the charge official all the High Priest needed to say was, “We gave you strict orders”.  Peter and John did not quibble but rather boldly boasted, “We must obey God rather than men”.

It is important for us to realize that we can, like the disciples, sometimes do the right thing, and end up guilty before the law and innocent before God. An example in our life time was the Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., who was willing to take a stand against the evil of racial prejudice and oppression in spite of the fact that segregation was the law of the land. Dr. King broke man’s laws and went to prison, though he remained innocent before God.

We must come to grips with the fact that breaking the laws of our nation comes with consequences. However there are times when, as the Apostles did in Jerusalem, “we must obey God rather than men.” This is the way that we show our respectful awe of God. This, we must understand, is also the only way that the Word of God will be preserved for our future generations.

Peter and John’s ministry did not fail Christ! They were faithful to preach “in season and out of season.” The question is how about us?  Will we boldly condemn sin when our government endorses it?  Will we stand courageously facing off against the political enemies of God? Do we need to be reminded that Christ is seated at the throne of God, waiting for the Church to take its stand? We must be “on fire” for Christ! This is no time for lukewarm Christianity! It is time for us to reach our boiling point and take a stand for the Lord. It’s time to get back to doing things God’s way.

Several times over the past decade and a half ruthless terrorists have struck this nation killing and maiming thousands. The Church of Jesus Christ should have been besieged with grief as far too many were pouring into the city streets with lighted candles, searching for answers seemingly not really knowing where to look. We witnessed many forced to their knees by one overwhelming circumstance after another. It appeared that a great majority knew not how to pray or whom to pray to. In an unrighteous twist of fate our homeland, founded upon biblical principle, has been viciously attacked by those who despise our God, yet when the Sabbath Day comes, many of our churches still remain half-full.  It begs the question, has the Church of Jesus Christ lost its influence and impact on America?

It’s time for the church to clear its vision, “we must obey God rather than men”. It is time for the Church to submit to God’s authority with unyielding faith. We must realign our priorities. It is time for us to once again trust in God’s Word, believe in God’s power, and surrender to God’s will.

We are challenged to revive our heart, and remold our attitude. “We must obey God rather than men”, however, we need the courage of Peter and John to face our adversaries. We must call on the wisdom of Jesus Christ to help us face our trials. We are challenged to turn once again to the assurance of the Word of God to overcome our temptations. Lastly, we need the help of the Holy Spirit to restore our power.

*The Reverend Dr. Charles R. Watkins, Jr., is the pastor of Morris Brown A.M.E. Church in Charleston, S.C.

16. ON THE ROAD TO ENDING HUNGER:

Bishop Don DiXon Williams

This year is looking promising. President Obama started the year by reiterating his focus, during the State of the Union address, for the next three years on creating sustainable jobs, strengthening the economic safety net, providing access to education and equal employment opportunities, and developing strategic community partnerships both domestically and abroad.

The State of the Union address came soon after the president’s address on income and opportunity in December. The 50th anniversary of the War on Poverty was an occasion to talk about poverty again, and both political parties started proposing various ways to combat poverty and strengthen the economy. An air of optimism seemed to have swept through Congress, which finally was able to pass the farm bill.

Before I get into the farm bill, I want to tell you about Lucy Jeffers. At 87 years old, she has had her share of ailments but has never been one to complain. Her knees ache constantly, but she doesn’t let the pain prevent her from attending church on Sundays. She takes advantage of a van service that picks her and other tenants up in front of their apartment building and drives them to the store. However, Ms. Jeffers does not join the shopping trips after the second week of the month. That’s when her monthly SNAP benefits run out.

As we researched this year’s Hunger Report, Ms. Jeffers did not hesitate to speak her mind about the difficulty of feeding herself for a whole month on just $35 in food-stamp benefits. She told us how she braces for the day her SNAP benefits run out by cutting back on portions. By the last week of the month, she eats only one meal per day, usually rice with a little butter to add some flavor.

Ms. Jeffers was barely staying afloat before the mandatory SNAP cuts that went into effect on November 1, 2013. The $11 billion in cuts essentially eliminated 200 million meals. The cuts meant more meals of only rice and butter for Ms. Jeffers. Now the new farm bill will cut $8 billion more from SNAP. And it will create even more households that are uncertain about their food sources.

Though our battle against hunger may seem impossible at times, there is still a lot of progress. President Obama has signed an executive order to raise the minimum wage to $10.10. Fair wages are the cornerstone in our campaign since employment is the best anti-hunger “program” out there. But we must make sure that those who have spent a lifetime working are not forgotten.

At Bread for the World, we truly believe that we can end hunger in our time. We can do this by getting everyone to full employment, having fair wages for workers, investing in human capital through education, assisting people with disabilities, and extending SNAP benefits to seniors, and ending extreme hunger and poverty worldwide. To find out more about Ms. Jeffers and our plan to end hunger, check out our 2014 Hunger Report.

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

*The Rev. Dr. A. Oveta Fuller is a tenured professor in Microbiology and Immunology and faculty in the African Studies Center at the University of Michigan. An Itinerant Elder in the 4^th Episcopal District, she served as pastor of Bethel AME Church in Adrian, Michigan for seven years before focusing fully on global health research in Zambia and the USA for HIV/AIDS elimination. At Payne Theological Seminary she teaches a required course, “What Effective Clergy Should Know about HIV/AIDS.”

17. IRS RELEASES THE “DIRTY DOZEN” TAX SCAMS FOR 2014; IDENTITY THEFT, PHONE SCAMS LEAD LIST:

WASHINGTON — The Internal Revenue Service today issued its annual “Dirty Dozen” list of tax scams, reminding taxpayers to use caution during tax season to protect themselves against a wide range of schemes ranging from identity theft to return preparer fraud.

The Dirty Dozen listing, compiled by the IRS each year, lists a variety of common scams taxpayers can encounter at any point during the year. But many of these schemes peak during filing season as people prepare their tax returns.

"Taxpayers should be on the lookout for tax scams using the IRS name,” said IRS Commissioner John Koskinen. “These schemes jump every year at tax time. Scams can be sophisticated and take many different forms. We urge people to protect themselves and use caution when viewing e-mails, receiving telephone calls or getting advice on tax issues.”

Illegal scams can lead to significant penalties and interest and possible criminal prosecution. IRS Criminal Investigation works closely with the Department of Justice (DOJ) to shutdown scams and prosecute the criminals behind them.

The following are the Dirty Dozen tax scams for 2014:

Identity Theft

Tax fraud through the use of identity theft tops this year’s Dirty Dozen list. Identity theft occurs when someone uses your personal information, such as your name, Social Security number (SSN) or other identifying information, without your permission, to commit fraud or other crimes. In many cases, an identity thief uses a legitimate taxpayer’s identity to fraudulently file a tax return and claim a refund.

The agency’s work on identity theft and refund fraud continues to grow, touching nearly every part of the organization. For the 2014 filing season, the IRS has expanded these efforts to better protect taxpayers and help victims.

The IRS has a special section on IRS.gov dedicated to identity theft issues, including YouTube videos, tips for taxpayers and an assistance guide. For victims, the information includes how to contact the IRS Identity Protection Specialized Unit. For other taxpayers, there are tips on how taxpayers can protect themselves against identity theft.

Taxpayers who believe they are at risk of identity theft due to lost or stolen personal information should contact the IRS immediately so the agency can take action to secure their tax account. Taxpayers can call the IRS Identity Protection Specialized Unit at 800-908-4490. More information can be found on the special identity protection page.

Pervasive Telephone Scams

The IRS has seen a recent increase in local phone scams across the country, with callers pretending to be from the IRS in hopes of stealing money or identities from victims.

These phone scams include many variations, ranging from instances from where callers say the victims owe money or are entitled to a huge refund. Some calls can threaten arrest and threaten a driver’s license revocation. Sometimes these calls are paired with follow-up calls from people saying they are from the local police department or the state motor vehicle department.

Characteristics of these scams can include:

• Scammers use fake names and IRS badge numbers. They generally use common names and surnames to identify themselves.

• Scammers may be able to recite the last four digits of a victim’s Social Security Number.

• Scammers “spoof” or imitate the IRS toll-free number on caller ID to make it appear that it’s the IRS calling.

• Scammers sometimes send bogus IRS emails to some victims to support their bogus calls.

• Victims hear background noise of other calls being conducted to mimic a call site.

After threatening victims with jail time or a driver’s license revocation, scammers hang up and others soon call back pretending to be from the local police or DMV, and the caller ID supports their claim.

In another variation, one sophisticated phone scam has targeted taxpayers, including recent immigrants, throughout the country. Victims are told they owe money to the IRS and it must be paid promptly through a pre-loaded debit card or wire transfer. If the victim refuses to cooperate, they are then threatened with arrest, deportation or suspension of a business or driver’s license. In many cases, the caller becomes hostile and insulting.

If you get a phone call from someone claiming to be from the IRS, here’s what you should do: If you know you owe taxes or you think you might owe taxes, call the IRS at 1.800.829.1040. The IRS employees at that line can help you with a payment issue – if there really is such an issue.

If you know you don’t owe taxes or have no reason to think that you owe any taxes (for example, you’ve never received a bill or the caller made some bogus threats as described above), then call and report the incident to the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration at 1.800.366.4484.

If you’ve been targeted by these scams, you should also contact the Federal Trade Commission and use their “FTC Complaint Assistant” at FTC.gov.  Please add "IRS Telephone Scam" to the comments of your complaint.

Phishing

Phishing is a scam typically carried out with the help of unsolicited email or a fake website that poses as a legitimate site to lure in potential victims and prompt them to provide valuable personal and financial information. Armed with this information, a criminal can commit identity theft or financial theft.

If you receive an unsolicited email that appears to be from either the IRS or an organization closely linked to the IRS, such as the Electronic Federal Tax Payment System (EFTPS), report it by sending it to phishing@irs.gov.

It is important to keep in mind the IRS does not initiate contact with taxpayers by email to request personal or financial information. This includes any type of electronic communication, such as text messages and social media channels. The IRS has information online that can help you protect yourself from email scams.

False Promises of “Free Money” from Inflated Refunds

Scam artists routinely pose as tax preparers during tax time, luring victims in by promising large federal tax refunds or refunds that people never dreamed they were due in the first place.

Scam artists use flyers, advertisements, phony store fronts and even word of mouth to throw out a wide net for victims. They may even spread the word through community groups or churches where trust is high. Scammers prey on people who do not have a filing requirement, such as low-income individuals or the elderly. They also prey on non-English speakers, who may or may not have a filing requirement.

Scammers build false hope by duping people into making claims for fictitious rebates, benefits or tax credits. They charge good money for very bad advice. Or worse, they file a false return in a person's name and that person never knows that a refund was paid.

Scam artists also victimize people with a filing requirement and due a refund by promising inflated refunds based on fictitious Social Security benefits and false claims for education credits, the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC), or the American Opportunity Tax Credit, among others.

The IRS sometimes hears about scams from victims complaining about losing their federal benefits, such as Social Security benefits, certain veteran’s benefits or low-income housing benefits. The loss of benefits was the result of false claims being filed with the IRS that provided false income amounts.

While honest tax preparers provide their customers a copy of the tax return they’ve prepared, victims of scam frequently are not given a copy of what was filed. Victims also report that the fraudulent refund is deposited into the scammer’s bank account. The scammers deduct a large “fee” before cutting a check to the victim, a practice not used by legitimate tax preparers.

The IRS reminds all taxpayers that they are legally responsible for what’s on their returns even if it was prepared by someone else. Taxpayers who buy into such schemes can end up being penalized for filing false claims or receiving fraudulent refunds.

Taxpayers should take care when choosing an individual or firm to prepare their taxes. Honest return preparers generally: ask for proof of income and eligibility for credits and deductions; sign returns as the preparer; enter their IRS Preparer Tax Identification Number (PTIN); provide the taxpayer a copy of the return.

Beware: Intentional mistakes of this kind can result in a $5,000 penalty.

Return Preparer Fraud

About 60 percent of taxpayers will use tax professionals this year to prepare their tax returns. Most return preparers provide honest service to their clients. But, some unscrupulous preparers prey on unsuspecting taxpayers, and the result can be refund fraud or identity theft.

It is important to choose carefully when hiring an individual or firm to prepare your return. This year, the IRS wants to remind all taxpayers that they should use only preparers who sign the returns they prepare and enter their IRS Preparer Tax Identification Numbers (PTINs).

The IRS also has a web page to assist taxpayers. For tips about choosing a preparer, details on preparer qualifications and information on how and when to make a complaint, visit www.irs.gov/chooseataxpro.

Remember: Taxpayers are legally responsible for what’s on their tax return even if it is prepared by someone else. Make sure the preparer you hire is up to the task.

IRS.gov has general information on reporting tax fraud. More specifically, you report abusive tax preparers to the IRS on Form 14157, Complaint: Tax Return Preparer. Download Form 14157 and fill it out or order by mail at 800-TAX FORM (800-829-3676). The form includes a return address.

Hiding Income Offshore

Over the years, numerous individuals have been identified as evading U.S. taxes by hiding income in offshore banks, brokerage accounts or nominee entities and then using debit cards, credit cards or wire transfers to access the funds. Others have employed foreign trusts, employee-leasing schemes, private annuities or insurance plans for the same purpose.

The IRS uses information gained from its investigations to pursue taxpayers with undeclared accounts, as well as the banks and bankers suspected of helping clients hide their assets overseas. The IRS works closely with the Department of Justice (DOJ) to prosecute tax evasion cases.

While there are legitimate reasons for maintaining financial accounts abroad, there are reporting requirements that need to be fulfilled. U.S. taxpayers who maintain such accounts and who do not comply with reporting requirements are breaking the law and risk significant penalties and fines, as well as the possibility of criminal prosecution.

Since 2009, tens of thousands of individuals have come forward voluntarily to disclose their foreign financial accounts, taking advantage of special opportunities to comply with the U.S. tax system and resolve their tax obligations. And, with new foreign account reporting requirements being phased in over the next few years, hiding income offshore is increasingly more difficult.

At the beginning of 2012, the IRS reopened the Offshore Voluntary Disclosure Program (OVDP) following continued strong interest from taxpayers and tax practitioners after the closure of the 2011 and 2009 programs. The IRS works on a wide range of international tax issues with DOJ to pursue criminal prosecution of international tax evasion. This program will be open for an indefinite period until otherwise announced.

The IRS has collected billions of dollars in back taxes, interest and penalties so far from people who participated in offshore voluntary disclosure programs since 2009. It is in the best long-term interest of taxpayers to come forward, catch up on their filing requirements and pay their fair share.

Impersonation of Charitable Organizations

Another long-standing type of abuse or fraud is scams that occur in the wake of significant natural disasters.

Following major disasters, it’s common for scam artists to impersonate charities to get money or private information from well-intentioned taxpayers. Scam artists can use a variety of tactics. Some scammers operating bogus charities may contact people by telephone or email to solicit money or financial information. They may even directly contact disaster victims and claim to be working for or on behalf of the IRS to help the victims file casualty loss claims and get tax refunds.

They may attempt to get personal financial information or Social Security numbers that can be used to steal the victims’ identities or financial resources. Bogus websites may solicit funds for disaster victims. The IRS cautions both victims of natural disasters and people wishing to make charitable donations to avoid scam artists by following these tips:

• To help disaster victims, donate to recognized charities.

• Be wary of charities with names that are similar to familiar or nationally known organizations. Some phony charities use names or websites that sound or look like those of respected, legitimate organizations. IRS.gov has a search feature, Exempt Organizations Select Check, which allows people to find legitimate, qualified charities to which donations may be tax-deductible.

• Don’t give out personal financial information, such as Social Security numbers or credit card and bank account numbers and passwords, to anyone who solicits a contribution from you. Scam artists may use this information to steal your identity and money.

• Don’t give or send cash. For security and tax record purposes, contribute by check or credit card or another way that provides documentation of the gift.

Call the IRS toll-free disaster assistance telephone number (1-866-562-5227) if you are a disaster victim with specific questions about tax relief or disaster related tax issues.

False Income, Expenses or Exemptions

Another scam involves inflating or including income on a tax return that was never earned, either as wages or as self-employment income in order to maximize refundable credits. Claiming income you did not earn or expenses you did not pay in order to secure larger refundable credits such as the Earned Income Tax Credit could have serious repercussions. This could result in repaying the erroneous refunds, including interest and penalties, and in some cases, even prosecution.

Additionally, some taxpayers are filing excessive claims for the fuel tax credit. Farmers and other taxpayers who use fuel for off-highway business purposes may be eligible for the fuel tax credit. But other individuals have claimed the tax credit although they were not eligible. Fraud involving the fuel tax credit is considered a frivolous tax claim and can result in a penalty of $5,000.

Frivolous Arguments

Promoters of frivolous schemes encourage taxpayers to make unreasonable and outlandish claims to avoid paying the taxes they owe. The IRS has a list of frivolous tax arguments that taxpayers should avoid. These arguments are wrong and have been thrown out of court. While taxpayers have the right to contest their tax liabilities in court, no one has the right to disobey the law or disregard their responsibility to pay taxes.

Those who promote or adopt frivolous positions risk a variety of penalties.  For example, taxpayers could be responsible for an accuracy-related penalty, a civil fraud penalty, an erroneous refund claim penalty, or a failure to file penalty.  The Tax Court may also impose a penalty against taxpayers who make frivolous arguments in court.  

Taxpayers who rely on frivolous arguments and schemes may also face criminal prosecution for attempting to evade or defeat tax. Similarly, taxpayers may be convicted of a felony for willfully making and signing under penalties of perjury any return, statement, or other document that the person does not believe to be true and correct as to every material matter.  Persons who promote frivolous arguments and those who assist taxpayers in claiming tax benefits based on frivolous arguments may be prosecuted for a criminal felony.

Falsely Claiming Zero Wages or Using False Form 1099

Filing a phony information return is an illegal way to lower the amount of taxes an individual owes. Typically, a Form 4852 (Substitute Form W-2) or a “corrected” Form 1099 is used as a way to improperly reduce taxable income to zero. The taxpayer may also submit a statement rebutting wages and taxes reported by a payer to the IRS.

Sometimes, fraudsters even include an explanation on their Form 4852 that cites statutory language on the definition of wages or may include some reference to a paying company that refuses to issue a corrected Form W-2 for fear of IRS retaliation. Taxpayers should resist any temptation to participate in any variations of this scheme. Filing this type of return may result in a $5,000 penalty.

Some people also attempt fraud using false Form 1099 refund claims. In some cases, individuals have made refund claims based on the bogus theory that the federal government maintains secret accounts for U.S. citizens and that taxpayers can gain access to the accounts by issuing 1099-OID forms to the IRS. In this ongoing scam, the perpetrator files a fake information return, such as a Form 1099 Original Issue Discount (OID), to justify a false refund claim on a corresponding tax return.

Don’t fall prey to people who encourage you to claim deductions or credits to which you are not entitled or willingly allow others to use your information to file false returns. If you are a party to such schemes, you could be liable for financial penalties or even face criminal prosecution.

Abusive Tax Structures

Abusive tax schemes have evolved from simple structuring of abusive domestic and foreign trust arrangements into sophisticated strategies that take advantage of the financial secrecy laws of some foreign jurisdictions and the availability of credit/debit cards issued from offshore financial institutions.

IRS Criminal Investigation (CI) has developed a nationally coordinated program to combat these abusive tax schemes. CI's primary focus is on the identification and investigation of the tax scheme promoters as well as those who play a substantial or integral role in facilitating, aiding, assisting, or furthering the abusive tax scheme (e.g., accountants, lawyers).  Secondarily, but equally important, is the investigation of investors who knowingly participate in abusive tax schemes.

What is an abusive scheme? The Abusive Tax Schemes program encompasses violations of the Internal Revenue Code (IRC) and related statutes where multiple flow-through entities are used as an integral part of the taxpayer's scheme to evade taxes.  These schemes are characterized by the use of Limited Liability Companies (LLCs), Limited Liability Partnerships (LLPs), International Business Companies (IBCs), foreign financial accounts, offshore credit/debit cards and other similar instruments.  The schemes are usually complex involving multi-layer transactions for the purpose of concealing the true nature and ownership of the taxable income and/or assets.

Form over substance are the most important words to remember before buying into any arrangements that promise to "eliminate" or "substantially reduce" your tax liability.  The promoters of abusive tax schemes often employ financial instruments in their schemes.  However, the instruments are used for improper purposes including the facilitation of tax evasion.

The IRS encourages taxpayers to report unlawful tax evasion. Where Do You Report Suspected Tax Fraud Activity?

Misuse of Trusts

Trusts also commonly show up in abusive tax structures. They are highlighted here because unscrupulous promoters continue to urge taxpayers to transfer large amounts of assets into trusts. These assets include not only cash and investments, but also successful on-going businesses. There are legitimate uses of trusts in tax and estate planning, but the IRS commonly sees highly questionable transactions. These transactions promise reduced taxable income, inflated deductions for personal expenses, the reduction or elimination of self-employment taxes and reduced estate or gift transfer taxes. These transactions commonly arise when taxpayers are transferring wealth from one generation to another. Questionable trusts rarely deliver the tax benefits promised and are used primarily as a means of avoiding income tax liability and hiding assets from creditors, including the IRS.

IRS personnel continue to see an increase in the improper use of private annuity trusts and foreign trusts to shift income and deduct personal expenses, as well as to avoid estate transfer taxes. As with other arrangements, taxpayers should seek the advice of a trusted professional before entering a trust arrangement.

The IRS reminds taxpayers that tax scams can take many forms beyond the “Dirty Dozen,” and people should be on the lookout for many other schemes. More information on tax scams is available at IRS.gov.

18. iCHURCH SCHOOL LESSON BRIEF FOR SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2014 - UNFORK YOUR TONGUE - JAMES 3: 1 - 12:

*Bill Dickens, Allen AME Church, Tacoma, Washington

Church School Lesson Brief

In last week’s lesson (James 2:14-26), we learned that true faith is evidenced by works. 

In today’s lesson we find James extending his discussion about faith but now stressing that true faith is reflected in words.  Exercising self-control is important if we want to win souls for Christ. A quick temper filled with ridicule of others is not Christ-like (James 3: 1-2).  We may not be perfect, but we should at least make an honest effort to minimize our verbal shortcomings.

The barrier to effective communications with each other is our speech and how we talk to others.

The tongue is the hardest of all the parts of the body to control.  The aim of the examples of the horse’s bit and the ship’s rudder is to show that a small part can have control over a large body.

The bit is small but by it the rider directs the large horse (Verse 3).

The tongue is a small part but what it says affects the whole person and other people. This is true for a church as well as for a single person. 

Looking at ships, we can see how a small object can control a large one. The small rudder sets the direction in which the large ship sails. The rudder was a piece of wood, or an oar, under the back of the ship. As the sailor turned the rudder, so the whole ship turned (Verses 4-5).

Left uncontrolled, the tongue is like fire and can be an instrument of evil. An uncontrolled tongue can maim, hurt and sometimes kill a person’s spirit.

Words hurt and damage the whole body. While human civilization has been largely successful in taming many things (verse 7); the tongue seemingly remains out of the reach for us to tame. 

James illustrates the contradictions of the tongue by pointing out the frequency of people to render both praise and condemnation in the same span of speech. 

For James this pattern of good speech, bad speech is unproductive.  As he carefully cites, a water fountain doesn’t offer bitter and sweet water.  Neither does a fig tree bear olives.  These physical examples by James illustrate the consistency of the property.  The tongue however is inconsistent.

It is true that no man can tame the tongue.  However, through submission to God’s Will, the tongue can be tamed!  Justice as a protector can assist in keeping our tongue under control.  If we want to avoid engaging in hurtful conversations we can only look to Jesus as our role model.

*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 ROMANS 8:28-39:

My oldest son returned to his home this past Friday from an overnight business trip that turned into a four day “adventure.”  He was at a convention in Washington, DC when a rare and severe winter ice storm paralyzed travel across the southeastern United States.  His flight home was twice canceled when the wintry weather closed southern airports, and was further delayed when the storm moved north and shut down the airports in Washington.

His initial reaction was understandable frustration about being stranded, but he didn’t dwell on the problem.  He found a less expensive hotel, purchased needed items, did a little sightseeing and had dinner with friends who live in Washington before relaxing in his hotel and watching snow blanket the city - and he was delighted when the airline made up for his inconvenience by giving him extra “frequent flyer” miles and an upgrade to First Class on his eventual flight home!  He realized that the situation was out of his control, made the best of things and actually enjoyed the involuntary “break.”

Remember my son’s experience when unexpected situations come your way.  Life can be unpredictable and sometimes doesn’t conform to our plans. Unanticipated stress, sickness, setbacks and disappointments can leave all of us feeling stuck, stranded and frustrated at times.

When we realize, however, that this is still God’s world and God is in control, we won’t let the unexpected paralyze us.  We can walk by faith and find hope in hopeless situations, find new direction in difficult times, find good alternatives in the midst of aggravation and find new determination in our times of disappointment.

Unexpected stormy times are a part of the human situation, but when we let God guide us through life’s storms, we can regroup, adjust, make the best of things and understand why the Apostle Paul told Christians in Rome, who’d soon face unexpected persecution, “In all things, God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose.”

Trust in the Lord - regardless of the situation - and you can turn life’s “lemons” into “lemonade” and understand why one Gospel song says, “After all the things I’ve been through, I still have joy.”

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 of the Seventh Episcopal District of the African Methodist Episcopal Church

20. EPISCOPAL FAMILY CONGRATULATORY ANNOUNCEMENT:

-- Stephen A. Green selected as one of the 25 2014 Young Futurists

Stephen A. Green, son of Bishop Samuel L. Green, Sr. and Dr. Ava S. B. Green, selected as one of the 25 exceptional individuals who comprise the 2014 Young Futurists, the Root's annual list of emerging leaders in the African-American community. 

(See the letter of selection below.)

 Dear Stephen,

Congratulations! On behalf of The Root, I am pleased to inform you of your selection as one of the 25 exceptional individuals who comprise our 2014 Young Futurists, The Root’s annual list of emerging leaders in the African-American community. 

The Root, the premier online source of news and commentary for African-Americans, used recommendations from your professional associates, school advisors, community leaders as well as online research to identify you as one of The Young Futurists.

Your exemplary leadership and incredible talents set you apart from your peers and we applaud your accomplishments and your influence and we celebrate your potential to impact our country and our world. It is evident that your voice resonates with an inspiring message of hope, positivity and change for your generation.

You can see the entire 2014 Young Futurists list, including your profile, at www.theroot.com. You can also let your friends, family and networks know about your selection for the 2014 Young Futurist by sharing your Young Futurist profile on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and other social media platforms. Promoting your profile has its perks-The Root will award a $500 cash prize to the Young Futurist with the most page views.

You have set a high bar and you should be very proud. Our staff at The Root is certainly proud of you!

Once again, congratulations!

Sincerely,

Donna Byrd,

Publisher, The Root

Lyne Pitts,

Interim Managing Editor, The Root

Dr. Henry Louis ‘Skip’ Gates, Jr.

Editor In Chief, The Root

Samuel L. Green, Sr.

Presiding Bishop

12^th Episcopal District

African Methodist Episcopal Church

P. O. Box 147

Little Rock, Arkansas 72203

Office Telephone: (501) 375-4310

bishopsam125@gmail.com

21. EPISCOPAL FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

Mr. Herbert Parrish, the uncle of Bishop Philip Robert Cousin Sr., passed this morning in Wesley Chapel, Florida.  Funeral arrangements are pending at this time.

Please continue to lift up Bishop Philip Robert Cousin and Episcopal Supervisor (ret.) Dr. M. Joan Cousin in your prayers!

God Bless you!

The Family of Mr. Herbert Parrish

Expressions may be sent to:

Bishop and Dr. Cousin

1322 Rosemary Drive

Bolingbrook, Illinois 60490

Bishop Philip Robert Cousin

prc7696@aol.com

Dr. M. Joan Cousin, Episcopal Supervisor (ret.)

mjoancousin@aol.com

22. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

Mrs. Vititia Dykes Greggs, widow of the late Rev. William H. Greggs, Itinerant Elder of the Southern California Conference, 5th Episcopal District passed from labor to reward on February 14, 2014. Mrs. Greggs worked in many capacities in the WMS of the AME Church, including Connectional, District and local levels. Mrs. Greggs also served as office manager for the WMS for Former WMS Presidents Mrs. Delores L. Kennedy Williams and Mrs. Dorothy Peck.

Her services will be held:

Family Hour

Friday, February 21, 2014 6:15 p.m. - 7:15 p.m.

Robinson Mortuary

1201 Dr. Martin Luther King Dr.

Little Rock, AR 72202

Telephone: 501.374-0111

Fax: 501.374-0113

Funeral

February 22, 2014

1:00 p.m.

St. John AME Church

1117 W. Pullen St.

Pine Bluff, AR 71601

Telephone: 870.535-3760

Condolences may be sent to either of the persons listed below:

Her Brother:

Horatious Williams

523 Pollock St.

North Little Rock, AR 72117

Or

Her Nieces:

Muriel Thomas

18 Chateaus Lane

Little Rock, AR 72210

Or

Marsha Byrd

3530 W. 27th St.

Los Angeles, CA 90018

23. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

We regret to inform you of the passing of Brother Alfred Grant, the brother of the Rev. Howard L. Grant, Presiding Elder of the Newark District, New Jersey Conference, and brother-in-law of Mrs. Roberta Grant. 

The following information has been provided regarding funeral arrangements.

Wake - Tuesday, February 18, 2014, 7:15 p.m. - 8:15 p.m.

Homegoing Service-Wednesday, February 19, 2014, 11:00 a.m.

Golden Gate Funeral Home

4155 S R L Thornton Fwy.

Dallas, Texas 75224

Telephone: 214-941-7332

Fax: 214-948-5544

Professional Care Service entrusted to:

Golden Gate Funeral Home

4155 S R L Thornton FWY

Dallas, Texas 75224

Phone: 214-941-7332

Fax: 214-948-5544

   

Expressions of Sympathy may be sent to:

The Rev. Howard & Mrs. Roberta Grant

96 Harper Ave.

Irvington, NJ 07111

Email: hlgrant@verizon.net

24. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

We regret to inform you of the passing of the Rev. Elliot Mcllwain, a local elder at Historic Jones Tabernacle AMEC (West District, Philadelphia Conference). 

The following information has been provided regarding funeral arrangements.

Viewing and Homegoing, Wednesday, February 19, 2014

Viewing - 9:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.

Homegoing Service - 11:00 a.m.

Historic Jones Tabernacle AME Church

2021 W. Diamond Street

Philadelphia, PA 19121

Telephone: 215-236-3028

Fax: 215-236-3085

The Rev. Stanley Hearst II, pastor

Interment at Mt. Peace Cemetery

3111 Lehigh Ave

Philadelphia, PA 19132

Expressions of Sympathy may be sent to:

Ms. Maxine Anderson

24 W. Wyneva

Philadelphia, PA 19144

25. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

It is with great sadness that we announce the funeral arrangements for the Reverend Gloria Long.  Reverend Long passed away at home on Wednesday, February 12, 2014.  She was the pastor of Greenshade AME Church, Quincy, Florida.  Services will be held as outlined below. 

Date and Time:

Friday, February 21, 2014

11:00 A.M.

Location:

Bethel AME Church

501 West Orange Avenue

Tallahassee, Florida 32301

Office: (850) 576-7501

Fax: (850) 576-8223

The Reverend Julius McAllister, Pastor

Services Entrusted to:

Williams Funeral Home

1555 Pat Thomas Parkway

Quincy, Florida 32351

Phone:  (850) 875-4849 - Fax: (850) 627-6618

26. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

The passing of a former long-time Connectional WMS Office Manager/Secretary

We are saddened to inform you of the passing of Mrs. Vititia Dykes-Greggs. Mrs. Gregg was the widow of the late Reverend William H. Greggs, an Itinerant Elder of the 5th Episcopal District. She also served as the loyal and long-time Office Manager/Secretary of the Women's Missionary Society of the AME Church under the leadership of three Connectional Presidents; Mrs. Wilhelmina Lawrence, Mrs. Dolores L. Kennedy-Williams and Dr. Dorothy Adams Peck.

Mrs. Gregg passed from labor to reward this morning, February 14, 2014. 

Service arrangements and contact details to follow.

*Submitted by Marsha Byrd, one of her many nieces.

(Phone: 770-558-1992)

27. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

I am very sadly writing to let you know that the Rev. Dr. James Walker, the very fine pastor of St. Peter AME Church in Clarksville, Tennessee, died on this afternoon. The Rev. and Mrs. Walker have been a tremendous blessing to the work and ministry of the North Nashville District--with the latest blessing being their outstanding hosting of our recently past North Nashville District Conference!

He was a dear friend and brother, and he will be sorely missed! Please keep Sister Faye in your prayers. Also, please honor her need to spend this sacred and solemn time with her intimate family and friends.

Tentative arrangements have been discussed for the funeral services, and will be more specifically announced once they have been solidified and confirmed.

The Rev. W. Antoni Sinkfield

Presiding Elder--North Nashville District

5525 Traceside Drive

Nashville, TN 37221 http://www.northnashvilledistrict.com/

(615)708 - 8981

(615)662 - 7373 fax

28. 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

Blog: http://ameccfic.blogspot.com/ 

Twitter: https://twitter.com/AMEC_CFIC  

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/The-AME-Church-Clergy-Family-Information-Center/167202414220  

29.  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.

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