THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER ONLINE ENGLISH EDITION (11/14/14)

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

-- Advent begins Sunday, November 30, 2014, and ends Wednesday, December 24, 2014

-- Christmastide, Christmas Eve - January 5, 2015

-- Epiphany, January 6 - Sundays after Lent through February 15, 2015

-- Lenten Season: Ash Wednesday, February 18 - Saturday, April 4, 2015.

-- Easter Sunday: April 5, 2015

1. TCR EDITORIAL –SO MUCH FOR WHICH TO BE THANKFUL - 2014:

Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III

The 20^th Editor of The Christian Recorder

Each Thanksgiving since I have been Editor of The Christian Recorder, I have shared my thanks and I want to continue the tradition of sharing my thanks as we celebrate Thanksgiving 2014 (In the U.S.)!

I am thankful to God and for Jesus Christ who died for my sins.  I am thankful for my wife of 52 years, the Rev. Dr. Charlotte Ann Blake Sydnor; our children, Gloria, Calvin IV and Christopher, their spouses, our grandchildren, family and friends.

I am thankful for our Zion, which celebrates 198 years of existence (Incorporated in 1816) as the African Methodist Episcopal Church. I am thankful for all of the “mothers and fathers” of the AME Church. I am thankful for the visionary leaders of our Zion and especially our founder, Bishop Richard Allen.

I make no apology; I love the AME Church because it has done so much for me personally and has also been a blessing for my family. The AME Church made it possible for me to attend and graduate from college and seminary. I was supported one way or the other from my freshman year in college and supported by the AME Church when I attended seminary for both my M.Div and D.Min degrees.  I love the History, Doctrine, and Polity of the African Methodist Episcopal Church.

I love The Doctrine and Discipline of the African Methodist Episcopal Church- 2012 and structure of the Church. I just love it that The D&D AMEC-2012 is available in the electronic version.  It can be purchased on Amazon and other platforms.  The electronic version is absolutely awesome. On the electronic version you can access any subject in seconds.

I love AME worship – the liturgy and the spiritual dynamism when pastors and parishioners allow the presence of the Holy Spirit in worship. I love the creativity allowed in our worship services. I also love the order and the liturgical movements that identify AME worship.

This year, I attended several dynamic AME worship services, two of which were in Cincinnati; Quinn Chapel AME Church pastored by the Rev. Dr. Frederick Wright and Allen Temple AME Church pastored by the Rev. Dr. Alphonse Allen - AME worship at its best. I also preached at St. Peter AME Church in Clarkesville, Tennessee; a small church, but, AME to the core, now pastored by the Rev. Walter W. Reid. Proud to be an AME in those worship settings. I make no apology. I am a committed Christian and an AME to the core. I am thankful for the AME Church!

I love the fact that our Zion baptizes infants. I am thankful that our church has taken the biblical and apostolic position of inclusiveness as it relates to children and people. Jesus did not exclude babies and youth, as a matter of fact Jesus teaches us that children are the embodiment of the “Kingdom”

I love the Methodist model of Holy Communion with its “open table” as a means of grace. John Wesley advocated the belief that communion should be made available to both believers and nonbelievers alike because Christ is truly present at the table in the Lord’s Supper. Wesley believed even nonbelievers might come to the table and encounter the living God. I am in agreement with John Wesley and Richard Allen must have been in agreement with Wesley too. I love and am thankful for the inclusiveness of the “open table.” Sometimes I am saddened when I hear about AME preachers who have not been properly trained and confuse the “open table” with “open Communion.”

I love the episcopacy and structure of the AME Church. I love the episcopal form of governance.  

I love the activism and human rights’ stance of the African Methodist Episcopal Church from our beginning, through the travails of Jim Crow laws, the Civil Rights’ Movement and up to the present time. We have never been a fearful church.

There were those, 227 years ago, who tried to stifle our African worship traditions; and Richard Allen, Absolom Jones and others walked out of St. George Methodist Episcopal Church because they were not going to tolerate second-class treatment. I am proud of the human and civil rights activism of the African Methodist Episcopal Church. I love the AME Church because its ministry has always extended “beyond the sanctuary.”

Wilberforce University opened its doors for my post-secondary education when my family didn’t have the money to provide for my college education. Ebenezer AME Church in Rahway, New Jersey laid the foundation; Bethel AME Church in Ardmore under the pastorate of the Rev. Theodore S. Clements gave me the entire Sunday morning offering in October 1959 so I was able to attend Wilberforce University in January 1960; and Bethel AME Church in Bryn Mawr under the pastorate of the Rev. B.C. Burton and other pastors nurtured my ministry and prepared me for the pastorate; Shorter Chapel AME Church in Paris, Kentucky and St. James AME Church in Danville, Kentucky gave me the experience to be a successful pastor and a successful U.S. Army Chaplain, all of which prepared me to become the 20^th Editor of The Christian Recorder.

In my pastorates in Paris and in Danville, I also supplied Wayman Chapel in Georgetown, Kentucky and St. Andrew AME Church in Lancaster, Kentucky. All of those churches laid the foundation for my pastoral and professional successes. I am thankful!

I am thankful for all of the academic institutions, schools, and institutes of the African Methodist Episcopal Church; and the fine work our academic institutions are doing in spite of insufficient funding, yet always producing top-flight graduates and productive citizens.

I was proud then and I am proud now

I am thankful and glad that I was elected at the 47^th Quadrennial Session of the General Conference and had the opportunity to participate in the 48^th and 49^th Quadrennial Sessions of the General Conference. Those General Conferences were awesome experiences and it made me proud to be an AME!

I am looking forward, God-Willing, to participating in the 50^th Quadrennial Session of the General Conference in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, where my official ministry began.

I was admitted to the Philadelphia Annual Conference at Mother Bethel AME Church in 1963, ordained an Itinerant Deacon (Israel AME Church) and Itinerant Elder (St. Matthews AME Church) in the Philadelphia Annual Conference. I am so blessed that my ministry will end where it started - in the Philadelphia Annual Conference of the First Episcopal District. My mandatory retirement is 2016. My, how time flies!

I am especially thankful the global African Methodist Episcopal Church and feel honored and blessed with the opportunity to serve as the 20^th Editor of The Christian Recorder. After ten-years, I still feel that I have the best ministry in the African Methodist Episcopal Church. Being the Editor of The Christian Recorder is better than being a bishop and better than any of the other general officer position! I am truly thankful!

I am thankful for the many people who write articles, promise to write articles, and intend to write articles and for the many people who inquire about writing articles. I am thankful for the regular columnists who write week after week. The African Methodist Episcopal Church is blessed to have them.  I am also thankful for the unnamed persons who work behind the scenes, who insist that their names not be mentioned.

I am thankful for the people who share their concerns and love for the African Methodist Episcopal Church.  I am thankful for our episcopal leadership and for my fellow general officers.  I am thankful for the AME Church’s connectional leadership; for our presiding elders, pastors and laity. I am thankful for our youth and young adults. We have some brilliant young people and young adults in the AME Church.

God has been good to the African Methodist Episcopal Church and its global ministry; and to each of us, in spite of our perceived shortcomings. 

Compared to other more-endowed denominations, the AME Church does much with its limited funding; and I am thankful for what the African Methodist Episcopal Church is able to do in the spirit of our founder, the Right Reverend Richard Allen and the Free African Society; and that the Church has remained faithful to the preamble of the Free African Society and remains faithful to the Church’s mission to “minister to the social, spiritual and physical development of all people.”

I am thankful for the people who love our Zion. I am especially thankful for the pastors of our mid-size and smaller churches; they are the “heart-beat” of the ministry of the African Methodist Episcopal Church. They labor week after week; month after month; and year after year.  I am thankful for them because of the ministry they are doing in spite of the fact that they are doing ministry and positively impacting lives without endowments and an abundance of wealthy members.

The ministry of our smaller churches is where “the rubber hits the road.”  I suspect that most of our successful pastors were nurtured in smaller congregations. I was nurtured in smaller and mid-sized churches with dedicated and spiritually-focused pastors. I am thankful for their spiritual leadership. I am also thankful the pastors and members of our large churches.  They have a “rubber meets the road” ministry.

I am thankful for the Church’s support for women in ministry and am hopeful that “more doors will be open” for them to be routinely assigned to top-tier pulpits.

I am thankful for the pastors who nurtured me: the Rev. Aldustus Jordan, the Rev. Jesse F. Owens, the Rev. T. S. Clements, the Rev. B.C. Burton, the Rev. C. E. Blake, the Rev. Theodore Moore, Chaplain Robert Howerton, Father Corbin Ketchersid, Bishop John Bright; and Bishop Frederick D. Jordan, who gave me my first pastoral appointment; and all of the subsequent bishops under whom I have served. I thank God for their spouses because they were so encouraging and such great role-models for my wife, Charlotte.  I thank God for all of the clergy and lay-mentors who nurtured my ministry. I will never forget them.

I am also thankful for the dedication and commitment of the laity love the AME Church and remain faithful in good times and bad times.  

I made some less than smart decisions when I was a young pastor and I am thankful that I had Cornelia Faulkner, Naomi Smith, Alberta Rice, Ralph Smith, Brother and Sister Fomas, Brother and Sister Chenault, Karen Sue Fomas and others who had the love and commitment for the Church that caused them to be patient with me. They taught me the “ins and outs” of ministry and of pastoring.  At the time, I thought that I was teaching them, but they were teaching me. I am thankful for those church-workers who were my “teachers” in ministry.

I am thankful for my parents, grandparents, aunts and uncles, neighbors, friends and all who had a hand in my spiritual development.

I thank you, the members of the African Methodist Episcopal Church, for this opportunity to express my thanks because I have so much for which to be thankful, and I am thankful; and, I know that you are thankful too and we all can affirm,

“Praise God, from Whom all blessings flow;

Praise Him, all creatures here below;

Praise Him above, ye heavenly host;

Praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost.

Amen!

I wish all of you a Blessed and Happy Thanksgiving and wonderful Advent and Christmas!

I hope you will mention the names of the persons who nurtured your ministry because doing so is cathartic.

2. WILBERFORCE UNIVERSITY ANNOUNCES NEW MEMBERS TO BOARD OF TRUSTEES:

Members Include Top Leaders from UPS, Toyota and Johns Hopkins University

WILBERFORCE, OH – November 11, 2014 —Wilberforce University, the country’s oldest private historically black college and university, continues its “Force for Change” strategy with the announcement of changes to its Board of Trustees with 10 new members.  Key experience among new board members includes business, finance, academia, law, planning and government. 

“We continue to advance our mission of creating change throughout our great University and the announcement of these esteemed new members to the Board of Trustees is just another step in the right direction,” says Mark Wilson, Chairman of the Wilberforce University Board of Trustees. “The experience that these men and women bring to the table is nothing short of remarkable, and I look forward to working with each and every one of them to support Wilberforce University in its efforts to institute change.”  

New Board Members

Reade Fahs, CEO, National Vision

Reade Fahs leads the 4th largest and fastest growing Optical Retail Chain in America which operates the America’s Best Contacts and Eyeglasses chain, the Eyeglass World chain stores located inside Wal-Mart and Fred Meyer.  Fahs brings a wealth of knowledge and experience in finance, general business and non-profits.

Dr. Katie Davis, Retired Professor/Administrator              

For forty years, Dr. Katie Davis was a professional educator in high schools and universities across Illinois, Tennessee and Virginia and has played a leadership role on the national, state, and local levels relative to issues facing higher education. In 2000, she retired from Norfolk State University as Professor Emeritus after 27 years of service. She is currently the President of the Norfolk State Retiree Association.

Gerard Gibbons, President of US Sales, UPS

As President of US Sales for UPS, Gerard Gibbons is responsible for the US Middle Market sales team and $17 billion in top line revenue annually.  A 25 year veteran at UPS, he develops and executes strategic initiatives driven by more than 2,500 sales professionals. Gerard also serves on the board of the Atlanta Women’s Resource Center to End Domestic Violence and is the Executive Advisor to the African American Business Resource group at UPS.

Sonya Holt, Federal Government

Sonya Holt has worked with the federal government for more than 30 years.   She leads strategic development and implementation to provide support in hiring by identifying and targeting diverse talent.  Holt is a member of the Advancing Women in the Workplace Council and was the first woman Chair of the National Urban Leagues (NUL), Black Executive Exchange Program (BEEP) Executive Advisory Council, as well as nominated to the NUL, BEEP Hall of Fame in 2012.

Adrienne Tremble, General Manager, Diversity & Inclusion, Toyota

A graduate of Wilberforce University, Adrienne Trimble is general manager of corporate responsibility, diversity and inclusion at Toyota. She is responsible for developing and managing corporate strategy, policy and programs to further diversify Toyota’s workforce, workplace and community and business outreach efforts. She is on the executive committee of the Billion Dollar Roundtable, and was recognized by Rev. Jesse Jackson and Rainbow PUSH Coalition with the Women in Leadership Award for her efforts to advance economic development for diverse suppliers.

Katie Fahs, Consultant

Katie Fahs is a marketing freelancer with experience gained at some of the country’s largest brands including Pampers and McNeil Products.  Fahs, a Harvard University graduate, is Chair of the Harvard Alumni Association Schools & Scholarships Committee where she is responsible for ensuring alumni interviews for Harvard’s 35,000 undergraduate applicants. 

Dr. Nevada Winrow, Director of Institutional Assessment & Reporting, Johns Hopkins University

At Johns Hopkins University, Dr. Nevada Winrow manages and supports academic and administrative program reviews, Institutional Effectiveness Plans, and the school's assessments related to the Association of Advanced Collegiate School of Business (AACSB) accreditation, the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, and other related activities that demonstrate institutional effectiveness and ensure meeting accreditation standards.

C. Earl Peek, Founder & Managing Partner, Diamond Ventures, LLC

As the founder of Diamond Ventures, LLC, C. Earl Peek is a seasoned business leader with significant experience and skills in commercial banking, finance, portfolio management, auditing, creditor and debtor relationships, financial modeling, deal structuring, workout, loan administration, economic development, new business development, brand product marketing and consulting.

Norrene Duffy, President, Red Bridge Consulting

Norrene Duffy created Red Bridge Consulting as a culmination of 30 years of experience in various areas of information technology (IT), ranging from research and development to management of a large public sector information systems department. Duffy is also an Adjunct Professor at Morehouse College where she created the curriculum for a class entitled Management Information Systems in the Economics and Business Administration Department.

Paul Martin, Principal, Law Offices of Paul P. Martin

Paul Martin is an attorney with more than twenty years experience of handling high-profile litigation matters in State and Federal Court.  He is in-house counsel for numerous AME, Baptist and Seventh-Day Adventist Churches and represented individuals and “Not for Profits” in criminal and civil litigation. Martin is also the pastor of Mount Carmel AME Church in New Rochelle, New York.

               

About Wilberforce University

Wilberforce University was founded in 1856 on a relatively radical principle for mid-19th Century America: to provide African-Americans, many who were fleeing slavery, with a quality, advanced education. It was a progressive concept that has evolved to inspire its current students to become innovators and entrepreneurs. Known today as the first predominantly African-American private university in the nation, it welcomes students of all faiths, races, colors, and national and ethnic origins. The school is regionally accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools and is affiliated with the African Methodist Episcopal Church as well as many collegiate organizations and associations, including the United Negro College Fund. For more information, visit www.wilberforce.edu.

3. PASTORAL APPOINTMENTS MADE AT THE THIRD EPISCOPAL DISTRICT PLANNING MEETING, SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 2014:

The Rt. Rev. McKinley Young, Presiding Bishop

Columbus, Ohio

Appointments:

The Rev. Dr. Melanie Valentine – appointed Presiding Elder Dayton District

The Rev. Kary Williams transferred from Pittsburgh Conference and assigned       to Young Chapel, Huntington, WV

The Rev. John Sylvia - St. Paul, Charleston WV.

The Rev. Willie Saddler - Bethel, Williamsport, PA and St Paul, Milton, PA.

The Rev. Melvin Wilson – Transferred from the South Ohio conference to     Pittsburgh conference and assigned to Payne Chapel, Duquesne, PA.

The Rev. Helen Burton – Greater Morris Chapel, Farrell, PA

The Rev. Roseann Oliver – Transferred from the Ohio Conference to the      Pittsburgh Conference and assigned to Wayman-Quinn, Monessen and      St Paul, West Newton, PA

The Rev. Dr. James H. Harris – Transferred from the North Ohio Conference         to the Pittsburgh Conference and assigned to Park Place, Homestead, PA

The Rev. Christopher Ferguson – Transferred from the Ohio Conference to   the South Ohio Conference and assigned to Bethel, Middletown, OH

The Rev. Elmer Martin - Greater Allen, Dayton, OH

The Rev. James Stowe - Brown Chapel, Cincinnati, OH

The Rev. Emma Drummer Barnes – St. Luke, Madisonville, Cincinnati, OH

The Rev. Margaret Tyson – Transferred from the North Ohio Conference to the South Ohio Conference and assigned to Allen Chapel, Portsmouth,     OH

The Rev. Dr. Betty Holley - Presiding Elder of the Columbus Springfield Xenia      District

The Rev. Tim Liggins – Assigned to begin a new congregation in the Whitehall Gahanna Area of Columbus, OH

The Rev. Dwight Smith - Central Chapel, Yellow Springs, OH

The Rev. Peggy Turner – Trinity, Springfield, OH

The Rev. Vanessa Cummings – Payne, Kenton, OH

The Rev. Deborah Duckett - St Paul, Cedarville, OH

The Rev. Oliver Tyler – Grace, Bellefontaine, OH

The Rev. Dr. Earl Harris – Transferred from the South Ohio Conference to    the North Ohio Conference and appointed Presiding Elder of the      Cleveland District

The Rev. Dr. L. Anthony Gatewood – Transferred from the Ohio Conference to the North Ohio Conference and assigned to Spelman Chapel, Kent, Ohio

The Rev. ReLoy Gainey – Transferred from the West Virginia Conference to         the North Ohio Conference and assigned to St Paul, Canton, Ohio

The Rev. Terry Williams – Christ Our Redeemer, Cleveland Heights, OH

The Rev. Mildred Taylor - St. John, Struthers, OH

The Rev. Dr. Otis Gordon – Allen Chapel, Rossford, OH

The Rev. Stephanie Ransom Kelly - Transferred from the North Ohio   Conference to the Ohio Conference and assigned to Cyrene, Piqua, OH

Respectfully Submitted by the Rev. Dr. Taylor T. Thompson, pastor of St. Paul AME Church in Columbus, Ohio

4. 365 - THAT'S THREE HUNDRED AND SIXTY-FIVE:

Every day- That’s 365 days a year- young women are stepping out on faith and answering God’s call to impact the world around them through service and discipleship.  As we approach the convening of the 18th Quadrennial Convention of the Women’s Missionary Society (WMS) of the A.M.E. Church, the Fourth District, host district for the Convention, is creating a Quadrennial publication to recognize these young women.

The publication, which is titled “365 - An Encyclopedia of Contemporary Missionaries”, will highlight women in our churches under 40 years of age who are living as world changers.  We believe that featuring our young women in this way will heighten their presence in the denomination, in the faith community, and in society.

Women will be recognized for impacting the world around them through their service in the following categories:

Ecology – Caring for our planet, including but not limited to; initiatives to provide clean water, develop new forms of clean energy, promote forestation, protect endangered wildlife, and encourage green living.

-- The Girl Child – Promoting girls' human rights, calling attention to gender inequalities, empowering girls for the future, and addressing the various forms of discrimination and abuse suffered by girls around the world.

-- Health & Wellness - Service in the field of healthcare, including mental health; i.e. nurses, physicians, dentists, psychologists, etc. This also includes women involved in mission activities and programs designed to promote healthy living and bring awareness to healthcare issues impacting the world. 

-- Peace, Justice and Reconciliation – Promoting sustained peace, justice, healing, and restoration in conflict affected communities.

-- Persecuted Christians – Women who are suffering persecution for their faith in Jesus Christ and women working to call attention to the issue of Christian persecution and to aid those currently undergoing persecution.

-- Prayer Warrior – Women who live a life of prayer and are dedicated to regular and consistent intercession to God on the behalf of others. 

-- Women’s Advocate – Promoting the social, legal, political, and economic rights of women and calling attention to gender inequality and speaking out against the oppression of women wherever it exists.

You can nominate a young woman by sending in an “action” photo of the candidate and a 500 word summary. The summary should include dates and locations of service as well as if impact is local, regional, national, or global. Submissions from Districts 1-13 must be accompanied by a fee of $365, payable to the 4th District WMS.  Episcopal Supervisors in Districts 14-20 are invited to send a submission in each category - No Fees.  All nominees will be featured in the encyclopedia and receive a copy.  Additionally, a panel of distinguished judges will select exceptional honorees for each category and monetary awards will be presented to the local societies whose nominees are selected for exceptional honors. 

Please mail submissions to: AME World Changers, P.O. Box 1543, Royal Oak, Michigan 48068-1543.  Submissions are due by December 31, 2014.  For more information, please email info@comtemporarymissionaries.com or visit www.contemporarymissionaries.com. 

**Submitted by Mrs. Lisa Reynolds, Fourth District WMS

5. INTERESTING SONS OF ALLEN WEBSITES:

Learn more about the Sons of Allen.

The Sons of Allen Website: http://amesonsofallen.org/index.php 

Here is another interesting website: http://docsouth.unc.edu/church/talbert/summary.html 

Christian Education statement: http://www.ameced.com/sons.shtml 

Another website: http://docsouth.unc.edu/church/talbert/talbert.html

6. MILDRED CLIFT, WILL CELEBRATE HER 100^TH BIRTHDAY ON DECEMBER 1, 2014:

*The Rev. Dr. Sheiler Stokes

Mildred Clift was born in Princeton, Indiana and moved to the Jeffersonville, Indiana in 1943 and joined Bethel AME Church.  She earned a Bachelor’s of Science Degree in History; a Master’s degree in Education, and a Master’s degree in Speech Therapy from Indiana University – Bloomington.  She became a member of the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority at Indiana University.

Ms. Clift loved Bethel AME Church and played the piano for the Sunday School until her retirement.  Her love for Sunday School continues, as she purchases books for each class every quarter.  A couple of years ago the Sunday School Superintendent was concerned that some of the children did not have a way to church.  Ms. Clift took the initiative and financed a bus so that children would not miss Sunday School.

Her career as a Social Studies Teacher began at the all-black Taylor High School in Jeffersonville (Clark County) IN.  After desegregation, she became the speech pathologist for the Greater Clark County School Corporation until her retirement at age 65.  Former students often remark of how she taught them to speak “proper” English.

To further the education of young people, Ms Clift set up a Scholarship Endowment at Wilberforce University, a 155 year old HBCU founded by the African Methodist Episcopal Church.  In 2009, Ms Clift set up the Mildred Clift Scholarship Fund for graduating youth in Clark and Floyd Counties and to date, 49 scholarships have been awarded. Scholarship recipients are attending Butler University, Indiana University, and the University of Louisville, to name a few.

Ms. Clift enjoyed teaching and her students loved her.  Ms. Clift’s students continue to shower her with warm and sincere words of gratitude for what she gave them as a teacher.  She believes what she gave and received while teaching provided her with peace of mind.  So, if there is one thing she can attribute to her longevity, it would be peace of mind.

On November 29, 2014 at 1:00 the church and community will join together to celebrate her life and accomplishments at Park Memorial United Methodist Church Family Life Center, located at 1820 East Park Place, Jeffersonville, Indiana.

Feel free to send Ms. Mildred Clift a birthday greeting at revsths@gmail.com

*The Rev. Dr. Sheiler Stokes is the pastor Bethel AME Church in Jeffersonville, Indiana and is the conference Coordinator for Women In Ministry

7. 2014 MIDYEAR CONVOCATION & THEOLOGICAL INSTITUTE:

Presiding Prelate Bishop Preston W. Williams, II, and Episcopal Supervisor, Dr. Wilma Webb Williams along with the Christian Education Team presented a three-day period of preaching, teaching, as well as a voter’s education forum during the 2014 Midyear & Theological Institute.  There was something different about the Sixth Episcopal District October 22-242014 Midyear Convocation & Theological Institute.

 

Perhaps the difference could be attributed to the fiery and inspiring preaching from retired AME Bishop Frank Curtis Cummings as well as from the Rev. Dr. Harold Mayberry (candidate for Episcopal office).  On the other hand, perhaps it was the information gleaned from the plenary sessions conducted by the Rev. Dr. James Thomas (The Missional Church) and Mr. Mychal Wynn (Equipping our Youth through a Ministry of Education).

Perhaps some would say that the difference was due to at least two additional reasons, (1) the location of the event or (2) the special invited guests to the event.  The first possible difference, Epworth by the Sea, Saint Simons Island, Georgia was the location for the 2014 Convocation & Theological Institute.  Somehow, it seems that most people did not mind driving the long distance to this year’s location on Saint Simons Island especially since they would be in close proximity to the water, beaches, and beautiful walking trails on the island.  The venue Epworth by the Sea is a United Methodist “Christian Conference and Retreat Center Overlooking the Frederica River.” Those who were fortunate to book rooms overlooking the river were not disappointed and could sit on their balconies or porches and enjoy the view of the Frederica River.

 “From Epworth, England to Epworth by the Sea... Epworth by the Sea is named in honor of the boyhood home of John and Charles Wesley, founders of Methodism. In 1784, John Wesley tenderly recalled his home by writing in his famous journal, "I rode to Epworth, which I still love beyond most places in the world." Though he is said to have ridden 250,000 miles and preached 45,000 sermons, Epworth still held his heart” (www.epworthbythesea.org).

This Epworth location certainly also captured the hearts of most who attended the convocation. During break times and prior to returning, home some attendees took time to stroll the beach, take snapshots on the beach or on the pier.  Others shopped or ate at the local establishments on Saint Simons Island.  Yes, indeed this location was a part of that “something different” vibe about the 2014 Midyear Convocation & Theological Institute.

The second difference was the presence of the special invited guests that included a former president, former ambassador/civil rights icon, and many politicians from throughout the state of Georgia. Sixth District members and guests were forewarned repeatedly by Bishop Williams on Wednesday night that access to the meeting conference hall would not be permissible on Thursday morning until the Secret Service Officers had completed a security check of the room.  Thankfully, there were no issues of noncompliance.

 On Thursday morning during a voter’s education forum, retired President Jimmy Carter made his appearance surrounded by his Secret Service escorts.  President Carter was appearing on behalf of his grandson Jason Carter who was seeking to be elected the next Governor of Georgia. President Carter shared stories about his younger years growing up in Plains Georgia and shared that the presence and ministry of an AME preacher shaped his (President Carter’s) formative spiritual life.

 Ambassador Andrew Young representing Georgia Senate candidate Michelle Nunn addressed the gathered crowd and shared “we need one vote (voice) to speak for us from Georgia.  Jesus is gonna ask three questions, did you feed the hungry, clothe the naked and take care of the sick? We are gonna have to have some gospel economics, can’t balance the budget on the backs of the poor.” Ambassador Young was passionate about the issues that plague the poor and the disenfranchised of Georgia, issues that should be addressed by politicians in office and those seeking political office.  Ambassador Young eloquent, jovial and at times with hints of his homiletics (preaching) skills urged his audience to vote in the upcoming elections.

Attendees received Sixth District Midyear Conference Voters Education Forum & Souls to the Polls Guide.  Included in the guide was a list as well as pictures of candidates running for state offices.  Those candidates who were present and spoke to the audience included Connie Stokes, candidate for Lieutenant Governor;  Robin Shipp, candidate for Labor Commissioner; Elizabeth Johnson, candidate for Insurance Commissioner; Doreen Carter, candidate for Secretary of State; Greg Hecht, candidate for State Attorney General; Daniel Blackman, candidate for Public Service Commissioner. Governor Nathan Deal was represented by Pastor Tony Lownden. Betty Mitchell represented Valerie Wilson, candidate for State School Superintendent.

It should be noted that there were a number of AMEs vying for political office, some listed above as well as others who faced opposition and others who were unopposed in the election. The unopposed candidates for elected office included State Representative Dee Dawkins- Haigler (Lithonia/Conyers); State Representative Billy Mitchell (Stone Mountain); State Representative Calvin Smyre (Columbus) and Senator Lester Jackson (Savannah). State Representative Karen Bennett (Augusta Conference Women in Ministry Coordinator) was successful in defeating her opponent at the polls on Election Day November 4, 2014.

Although the results of the recent National, State and Local Elections were not what was expected the information that was presented at the 2014 Midyear Convocation & Theological Institute  was very informative.  The Voter Education Forum presented at the Midyear should spark all AMEs to take every election seriously, one, vote, one voice can result in collective change; change that gives individuals the right to liberty, justice and the pursuit of happiness (which should include adequate healthcare as well as opportunities to earn a living wage).  The 2014 Sixth Episcopal District Midyear Convocation & Theological Institute  not only provided an opportunity for church meetings, learning/studying and hearing from God (through preaching) but it also provided an opportunity for some to stop, inhale fresh air and view the miraculous handiwork of God known as “the beach.” 

*The Rev. Velma E. Grant is the President Women in Ministry, Sixth Episcopal District and Associate Pastor, First Saint Paul AME Church, Lithonia, Georgia

8. A YOUNG LIFE CUT SHORT:

             

Cortlandt Gerard Thompson was born on March 21, 1981, in Jackson, Mississippi.  He was the only child born to the union of the Rev. Dr. Taylor Tyrone Thompson of Columbus, Ohio and Dr. Brenda Kaye Miller Thompson, retired Professor/Director from Jackson State University.  Cortlandt departed this life on October 21, 2014.

Cortlandt began his early education at the Lottie Thornton Early Childhood Center at Jackson State University. He attended Christ the King from kindergarten through first grade; and matriculated through the Jackson Public School System where he graduated from Forest Hill High School in 1999. He was a member of the Marching and Concert Band (Percussionist) at Hardy Middle School and Jim Hill High School; member of the All-City Middle School Band  (Percussionist) from Hardy Middle School(February 22 and 23, 1995); Superstar student, High honor and honor roll; selected to Who’s Who Among American High School Students; member of APAC Art; Point Guard—Jim Hill High School Basketball Team; and member of the Kappa League, Delta Delta Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. (Jim Hill High School).  He was invited to participate in several leadership forums and oratorical contests.

Cortlandt joined the Jackson State University Karate Club Tae Kwan Do at a young age under Mr. Lindsey Horton, Master Instructor.  He became a Junior Black Belt on February 1, 1992. He participated in many tournaments and won many trophies. 

After graduating from high school, Cortlandt attended Wilberforce University from 1999-2003, majoring in Computer Science.  While at Wilberforce University, he was a Dean’s List scholar; prospective member of the new Wilberforce Band as a percussionist; received accolades as a student worker in the Department of Music, and many other awards. 

He returned to Jackson, Mississippi in 2007, where he resided with his mother until his death. From the age of 10, Cortlandt had a talent for barbering. Because he knew how to cut with such precision, he had boys and men as customers at such a tender age.  Because of his barbering skills, Cortlandt enrolled and graduated from the Academy of Hair Design Barber College in Jackson, Mississippi in December 2013. After passing the State Barber Exam, he became a self-employed Professional Licensed Barber, known as “Mr. Exclusiv.”  He was known for his custom hair designs.

Cortlandt was a fifth generation AME on his maternal side.  He was a member of Pearl Street AME Church in Jackson, Mississippi. Growing up in Pearl Street AME Church, Cortlandt was secretary of the Sunday School, member of the YPD, Choir, and the Junior Usher Board. 

On the AME, 8^th Episcopal District level, Cortlandt was crowned Mr. Bonner-Campbell on February 17, 1995 through the Buy-a-Brick Campaign.  He also served as the YPD Historiographer-Statistician.

In terms of the Connectional level, Cortlandt was elected a youth delegate and attended the W.M.S. Quadrennial in Miami, Florida in July 1999. In his lifetime, Cortlandt attended five WMS Quadrenniums and four General Conferences with his mother, Dr. Brenda Kaye Thompson. He attended the 14^th World Methodist Conference in Honolulu, Hawaii with his parents, the Rev. Dr. Taylor T. Thompson and Dr. Brenda Kaye Thompson, when he was 4 months old.

Cancer Survivor

At the age of 11 months old, Cortlandt was stricken with neuroblastoma. Cortlandt was admitted to St. Jude Hospital in Memphis, Tennessee. At the time, he was given four (4) months to live.  Cortlandt remained with St. Jude from 11 months old through high school even though he was in remission. His cancer never came back. During his many years at St. Jude, his grandmother, the late Mrs. Lena Simmons Miller (Life Member of the WMS) made all the trips with us.  We will always be grateful to God, Dr. Green, Nurse Melissa, and the entire St. Jude Hospital in Memphis, Tennessee (Danny Thomas, Founder).

Cortlandt was preceded in death by his grandparents, Mr. Luelon and Mrs. Lena Simmons Miller and Mr. Taylor and Mrs. Rosie Hale Thompson; and, his pet dog, Mr. Tiger Tyrone Thompson.  He leaves to cherish his memory his devoted and loving parents, Dr. Brenda Kaye Miller Thompson; the Reverend Dr. Taylor Tyrone Thompson (the Rev. Dr. Barbara Thompson); Aunt, Dr. Romelda Y. Simmons; Uncle, Mr. Bobby A. Hassain; Aunt, Ms. Betty Jean Thompson; Sister, Ms. Pia Butler, First Cousin, Ms. Becca A. Hassain, Niece, Shakiera Butler, and a host of cousins, other family, and friends.

The Family Hour was held at Westhaven Memorial Funeral Home in Jackson, Mississippi on Friday, October 31, 2014.

                                

The funeral was held at Pearl Street AME Church in Jackson, Mississippi on Saturday, November 1, 2014. 

                                                                                                                     

Cortlandt was buried at the Lakewood Cemetery in Greenville, Mississippi.

                           

7. BRING BACK OUR GIRLS SO THEY CAN FLOURISH:

*Dr. Angelique Walker-Smith

African-American and African communities have come together to support the Bring Back our Girls campaign, which calls for the release of schoolgirls kidnapped by the Boko Haram group in Nigeria. Many of those calling for their release are a part of our faith community. Many thought the negotiations between the Nigerian government and Boko Haram would result in the return of the girls to their homes. Sadly, this has not been the case, and the campaign must continue. The girls’ plight highlights the endemic poverty and inequality that women around the world face every day.

Secretary of State John Kerry agrees that poverty is one of the root causes of these girls’ abduction and their continued suffering at the hands of their captors. On May 7, an article published by CNS News included Kerry’s observation that poverty is a recruitment tool for extremist groups like Boko Haram. He further stated that much of the challenge in confronting violent extremist groups like Boko Haram lies in fighting poverty. At a Council of the Americas conference in Washington, Kerry stated that participants “talked about poverty and the need to alleviate poverty, and that much of this challenge comes out of this poverty where young people are grabbed at an early stage and proffered a little bit of money…”

This month, Bread for the World Institute is releasing its annual Hunger Report for 2015 with the support of national African-American faith leaders and other leaders. The report, titled When Women Flourish…We Can End Hunger, demonstrates the faith community’s support for empowering women and girls and addresses the issues of hunger and poverty that profoundly affect their ability to flourish.

The report calls for government, community, and religious institutions in the United States and around the world to invest in women’s empowerment by changing policies, norms, and behaviors that are harmful to women and girls. The report argues that it is impossible to reach the goal of ending hunger by 2030 without a strong focus on women’s and girls’ empowerment. Such a focus should help create more sustainable communities and prevent groups like Boko Haram from preying on innocent children.

We hope you will join us in this work to help our women and girls to flourish. Go to www.hungerreport.org to learn more.

*The Rev. Dr. Angelique Walker-Smith is the Associate for National African-American Church Engagement at Bread for the World.

8. JOB GROWTH NOT MET WITH RISE IN WAGES:

--NAACP Statement on October Unemployment Numbers

The Bureau of Labor Statistics released the monthly report on the overall employment situation.  The national unemployment rate was 5.8 percent and the number of unemployed persons went down to 9 million, or 1.2 million fewer unemployed persons than at the beginning of 2014.  The unemployment rate for Asian Americans was 5.0 percent, for whites 4.8 percent, Latinos 6.8 percent and African Americans 10.9 percent. The report does not include data for Native Americans.

This report highlights the danger of a recovery where job creation does not translate into rising household income.  Approximately, 214,000 new jobs were created this month (an average of over 200K new jobs are created every month this year); but wages have remained relatively stagnant at $24.57 per hour. Additionally, the number of people working part-time but seeking full-time employment and the “marginally attached” workers remains unchanged.

As we watch this recovery unfold, it has become clear that our job market reflects great economic inequality.

From Dedrick Asante – Muhammad, Sr. Director of NAACP Economic Department:

“The occupations seeing wage increases are primarily higher income and dominated by highly educated and skilled workers who are disproportionately white. Minorities have shifted from the decimated public and manufacturing workforce, to an overwhelming representation in retail occupations such as customer service, administrative support, waste removal, and security. These positions, in particular, have very little pressure to raise wages, as they are rarely covered by collective bargaining agreements and there are a large number of idle workers able to perform them. These positions are also easier to automate.  Middle and lower income workers have yet to see a recovery in their paychecks. They cannot spend enough to drive further growth in jobs, save for retirement, or lower the pressure on public services such as SNAP and public housing.  Until we see significant growth in wages for all occupations and people, we cannot call this a full recovery."

9. UNIVERSITY OF CINCINNATI AIMS TO INCREASE THE DIVERSITY OF ITS FACULTY:

Filed in Diversity, Faculty, Racial Gap, STEM fields on November 11, 2014

The University of Cincinnati has had success in its Strategic Hiring Initiatives which seek to increase the number of women and underrepresented minorities on its faculty. Among the initiatives are the Dual Career Assistance Program, which provides both financial and personnel resources to assist spouses and partners of newly hired tenured and tenure-eligible faculty successfully transition to the Cincinnati community.

In addition to the Dual Career Assistance Program, the university has also made a significant effort to attract women and underrepresented minorities to faculty positions in STEM disciplines. The provost’s office has allocated $1,170,000 to the faculty diversification effort during the current fiscal year. And the Office of the President has allocated $800,000 over the next three years for the effort.

The University of Cincinnati reports that these efforts have been paying off. Some 22 new faculty members have been hired under the new initiatives. Over the past year the number of women and underrepresented faculty in STEM fields has tripled, according to Robin Martin, associate provost for special initiatives.

“The success of the program is only the beginning in the University of Cincinnati’s journey to attract and retain top talent,” Dr. Martin said. “By increasing the diversity of our faculty, we enhance both the academy and the student experience.”

Dr. Martin joined the staff at the University of Cincinnati in 2007. Previously, she served as director of athletics at Holy Names University in Oakland, California, and Dillard University in New Orleans. Dr. Martin holds bachelor and master’s degrees from the University of New Orleans. She earned a doctorate in urban educational leadership at the University of Cincinnati.

Read More: http://www.jbhe.com/2014/11/university-of-cincinnati-aims-to-increase-the-diversity-of-its-faculty/

10. EIGHT HBCU INSTITUTIONS SELECTED TO COMPETE IN THE HONDA BATTLE OF THE BANDS:

Filed in HBCUs on November 7, 2014

Eight bands from historically Black colleges and universities have been selected to compete in the 13th annual Honda Battle of the Bands. The competition will take place at the Georgia Dome in Atlanta on January 24, 2015.

The eight participating bands will represent Alabama State University, Bethune-Cookman University, Howard University, Jackson State University, North Carolina A&T State University, Southern University, Talladega College, and Tennessee State University. Each band will receive a $20,000 grant and travel and lodging expenses for the bands in Atlanta will be provided by Honda.

North Carolina A&T State University will be defending its 2014 title. A video of their 2014 winning performance can be seen at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=lOh-B4u6dhQ

11. 2015 SUMMER INTERNSHIP THE U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND:

Description

For detailed application guidelines, please visit http://www.orau.gov/dhseducation/internships/application.html.

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) sponsors a 10-week summer internship program for undergraduate and graduate students majoring in homeland security related science, technology, engineering and mathematics (HS-STEM) Disciplines. The program provides students with quality research experiences at federal research facilities located across the country and allows students the opportunity to establish connections with DHS professionals. It is open to students in a broad spectrum of HS-STEM Disciplines and DHS mission-relevant Research Areas.

Undergraduate students receive a $6,000 stipend plus travel expenses.

Graduate students receive a $7,000 stipend plus travel expenses.

10-week research experiences are offered at: Argonne, Berkeley, Livermore, Los Alamos, Oak Ridge, Pacific Northwest, and Sandia National Laboratories; as well as at Homeland Security Studies and Analysis Institute, Coast Guard Research and Development Center, Customs and Borders Protection Laboratories and Scientific Services, Domestic Nuclear Detection Office, Federal Emergency Management Agency, Naval Research Laboratory, Engineer Research and Development Center, National Security Technologies Remote Sensing Laboratory, Transportation Security Laboratory, and more.

Areas of research: Engineering, computer science, mathematics, physics, chemistry, biological / life sciences, environmental science, emergency and incident management, social sciences, and more.

U.S. citizenship required

Application deadline: December 22, 2014

Detailed information about the internships can be found at:

http://www.orau.gov/dhseducation/internships/

A poster is located at:

http://www.orau.gov/dhseducation/internships/files/hs-stem-2015-poster.pdf

Previous participants' testimonials can be found at http://www.orau.gov/dhseducation/internships/stories-hsstem.html

DHS has partnered with the Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education (ORISE) to manage the program. For questions please email us at dhsed@orau.org

Responsibilities

For more detailed information regarding this, please visit:

http://www.orau.gov/dhseducation/internships/obligations.html

Requirements

For detailed information concerning eligibility, please visit: http://www.orau.gov/dhseducation/internships/eligibility.html

12. VETERANS PENSION INFO AND HOW TO APPLY (FOR VETERANS 65 AND OLDER (WHO MEET CERTAIN CRITERIA) :

How to Apply for Veterans Pension

To apply for Veterans Pension, download and complete VA Form 21-527EZ: http://www.vba.va.gov/pubs/forms/VBA-21-527EZ-ARE.pdf.   “Application for Pension.” You can mail your application to your local regional benefit office: http://www.va.gov/directory/guide/division_flsh.asp?dnum=3.   You can locate your local regional benefit office using the VA Facility Locator: http://www.va.gov/directory/guide/division_flsh.asp?dnum=3.  You may also visit your local regional benefit office and turn in your application for processing.

Eligibility for Veterans Pension

Low-income wartime Veterans may qualify for pension if they meet certain service, income and net worth limits set by law, are age 65 or older, or permanently and totally disabled, or a patient in a nursing home receiving skilled nursing care, or receiving Social Security Disability Insurance, or receiving Supplemental Security Income. Generally, a Veteran must have at least 90 days of active duty service, with at least one day during a VA recognized wartime period. The 90-day active service requirement does not apply to Veterans discharged from the military due to a service-connected disability.

Note: Veterans may have to meet longer minimum periods of active duty if they entered active duty on or after Sept. 8, 1980, or, if they were officers who entered active duty on or after Oct. 16, 1981. The Veteran’s discharge must have been under conditions other than dishonorable and the disability must be for reasons other than the Veteran’s own willful misconduct.

Payments are made to bring the Veteran’s total income, including other retirement or Social Security income, to a level set by Congress. Unreimbursed medical expenses may reduce countable income for VA purposes.

13. FIVE LEADERSHIP TRAITS A PASTOR MUST POSSESS OR LEARN:

*Dr. Terry Jackson

Do black pastors understand their obligations to their congregations? Do black pastors know that leading a congregation or community is a privilege? Do black pastors understand that just because they are a pastor does not mean that they are a Leader?

Too often a person in a leadership position is defined as a leader often that is not the case. Leadership can be learned if the person in the leadership is willing to learn. There are many Pastors who lead congregations but are not leaders. They do not possess the necessary skills to lead an organization because they have never learned the skills.

When examining the terms obligation and privilege it is imperative that both are clearly defined and understood. Obligation is defined as a duty, a binding agreement, a bond and indebtedness enforceable by law. Pastors who lead a congregation are obligated to improve the quality of life of each congregant as well as each member in the community. This may be done directly or indirectly but the obligation stands. As a reminder all a Pastor has to do is study the life of Jesus.

Understanding what it means to be privileged should bring out humility in a person. A “privilege is a special honor or benefit given to a person.” As a Pastor it is a privilege to minister to a congregation. That privilege should command Humility from all Pastors.

There are five traits that every Pastor must possess or learn in order to live out their obligations to their congregations and to ensure that they fully understand how privileged they are to be in a pastoral position. Pastors must be authentic, develop impeccable character, treat Communication with others as a critical process, engage and mobilize congregations; and lastly a pastor must be able to “move things forward.”

1) Be Authentic:  this is a phrase we hear daily; however many do not really know and understand it true meaning or power. Being authentic means being truthful, showing vulnerability but it does not mean being self-righteous, arrogant or cynical. It means communicating in such a way that results are created with the congregation.

2) Develop Impeccable Character:  To develop an “Impeccable Character” does not mean that the Pastor must be perfect. Character is critical as it means that the Pastor will keep promises, proactively explore right and wrong as well as involve the church and community in key decisions regarding the church. It also mean that the Pastor will have a vested interested in improving the quality of life of his congregation and community. The Pastor will question not only the morals of the congregation but also his/her morals.

3) Treat Communication with others as a Critical Process:  Great leaders over communicate and Pastors should do the same with their congregation and community. Communication should be treated as a Critical Process because out of effective communication comes a highly level of productivity. This level of productivity results in growth for the congregation as a whole and the community. Have you measure how well you church communicates? Have you measured how well your Pastor communicates to the church as well as the community? Pay attention.

4) Engage and Mobilize the Congregation:  Not only on Sunday’s but during the rest of the week. How well does you pastor “Engage and Mobilize” the community? How well does the Pastor know each member of the congregation? How well does Pastor know the leaders and politicians in the community? To “Engage and mobilize” the community and congregation the pastor must know the skills, gifts and talents of the members of the church and community. If the Pastor has not dedicated time to get to know his congregation they will not reach the level of growth needed to help the community.

5) Move Things Forward:  Maybe the most important of the five traits is the Pastors ability to “Move Things Forward.” A crucial component of moving things forward is the ability of the Pastor to sometime “surrender.” Pastors must understand that they are at the church to serve the congregation not be served by the congregation. They must also realize that they don’t control and should not control everything but develop the church to make decisions regarding matters of the church. This does not mean that the Pastor abdicates responsibility; it means the trust has been developed and the decision will be made in alignment with the Vision and Mission of the church.

These five traits will make for a highly product Pastor, church and community. When a Pastor possesses or learns these traits his or her ability to understand their obligations to the church and the privilege they have for leading a congregation will be realized.

*Dr. Terry Jackson is a highly accomplished, experienced and dynamic Certified Executive Coach, Leadership Development Coach, Life Coach, Sales Trainer, Business Coach and Consultant. His passion and purpose is helping others improve their quality of life and he has an established history of helping others improve their skills sets, their ability think and process information and change their behaviors.

Reprinted with the permission of Dr. Terry Jackson, www.blacklifecoaches.net  

14. THE TRUTH IS THE LIGHT:

The Rev. Dr. Charles R. Watkins, Jr.

Based on Biblical Text: Ephesians 3:14-16:  "For this cause I bow my knees unto the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ,  Of whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named,  That he would grant you, according to the riches of his glory, to be strengthened with might by his Spirit in the inner man..."  

I am reminded of a song written by Dorothy Norwood and Alvin Darling. The song says, “Somebody prayed for me, had me on their mind. Took the time to pray for me. I’m so glad they prayed. I’m so glad they prayed for me.”

I’m so glad that somebody prayed for me. It is obvious to me that when I was growing up in southeast Washington, DC and navigating my way through some tough adolescent years, while hanging with some fairly tough characters somebody must have gotten on their knees to ask the Lord to intervene and protect me from harm. Somebody, thank God, was moved to think about me enough to fall on their knees asking the Lord to protect me from unscrupulous opportunists who prey upon the naive, and to protect me from myself and my tendency to make poor decisions.

Did somebody pray for you? Did somebody have you on their mind? I know I’m not the only one who had a praying mother, praying grandmother, and a praying church.

Without a doubt some of the prayers had to be really profound and powerful as they not only delivered me from the snares of Satan, but they also after a while changed my life’s direction. Eventually, even though my mother would have hoped it would have been much sooner, I became serious about life, serious about my education, serious about my relationship with God, and serious about my quest to share Christ with the world.

A great prayer is so much more than just a desire, an appeal, a plea or a request of God. Profound and powerful prayers exhibit a heartfelt hunger that can be measured only by the Lord. A prayer will be lost in its own vanity if it is shallow, superficial and full of vain requests. However, it will reach the lofty heights of heaven paving the way for abundant blessings if it is unselfish, intercessory, and sincere. The Bible says that “the effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man (person) availeth much.” It is said that prayer does not equip us for greater works but rather, prayer is the greater work.  Great prayers come from a sincere and thankful heart.

What makes a great prayer? How do we know that God is pleased with our prayers? I think many will agree that the answer to these questions might be found in our text which is a prayer that could be classified as the second most powerful prayer in the Bible. If the Lord’s model prayer in Matthew 6:9-13 is the most powerful then Paul’s prayer ranks second only to it. It represents the prayer of a mature believer and, at least in my opinion, is so important and powerful, that believers should pray this prayer daily. 

Paul begins his prayer with the words, “For this cause.”  Paul is referring to the great salvation and birth of the church which God has wrought through Jesus Christ. Clearly, if we intend to get a prayer through, we first ought to understand why we are praying. Lamentably, many prayers are sent up but are destined to fall on deaf ears because the supplicant knows nothing about the Source of the supply! In other words, we must understand first how important the work of Christ was that was wrought on earth for the salvation of mankind. Only then can we truly know the utmost necessity of completing that work. It is “For this cause”, we pray, plead and press on!

Paul prays confidently, to the One who not only listens, but delivers! Paul asks, “That [God] would grant you, according to the riches of his glory, to be strengthened with might by his Spirit in the inner man.”  Paul is praying for the strength and power of the believer. We will need strength to survive in this life. Paul is an example to us that we will be challenged to endure whippings, shipwrecks, imprisonments, and even false accusations.

The word strength means to have energy to endure. Our survival in this life requires strength in our “inner man” which is the deepest part of our being. This is the only way we will be able to overcome the flesh with all its weaknesses. Our “inner man” is strengthened in order to ward off temptation, sin, grief, death, trouble, disease and suffering, selfishness and worldliness, challenges and circumstances and a host of other negative energies. Our “inner man’ has to be prepared to face our trials and tribulations. There is no other way to lay claim to all the blessings of God and fulfill God’s eternal purpose for our life. There is no military basic training or earthly experience that can really prepare us to be “all that we can be.” We will need Holy Ghost power to complete that task.

Paul challenges us to pray for supernatural strength, sound guidance, and for sincere understanding. We must ask the Lord to rule and reign, abide and abound. We must petition the Lord to take charge and take over.

Somebody may have prayed for us, but it is now time that we pray for ourselves. We are challenged to pray for yoke breaking, disease healing, and heart strengthening power that only the Holy Spirit can provide. Pray for the kind of power that will cause us to love that neighbor who can’t stand us. Pray for the kind of strength that will cause us to shout for joy even in the midst of sickness. Pray for the kind of strength that will make us get up and go to church, even when we don’t want to go. That is Holy Ghost strength!

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

15. STUDY FINDS POOR COMMUNICATION BETWEEN AFRICAN AMERICAN MOTHERS AND DAUGHTERS ON HIV/AIDS:

Michelle T. Berger, an associate professor in the department of women’s and gender studies at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, has conducted a focus group study of African American mothers and their daughters on the risk of HIV/AIDS. The mothers and daughters were interviewed in separate groups. African Americans account for 57 percent of new HIV/AIDS cases among women.

Dr. Berger research found that many African American mothers did not consider HIV/AIDS to be a major health risk compared with other concerns such as breast cancer, obesity, high blood pressure, and diabetes. Some of the African American mothers expressed the opinion that they didn’t think their daughters would participate in behaviors that would expose them to the risk of HIV/AIDS.

In the daughters’ focus groups, many of the young women stated that they did not feel comfortable talking about sex-related issues with their mothers. Dr. Berger found that most mothers stated that they were open to talking about such issues with their daughters, but their daughters did not agree.

Dr. Berger is the author of Workable Sisterhood: The Political Journey of Stigmatized Women with HIV/AIDS (Princeton University Press, 2004) and Transforming Scholarship: Why Women’s and Gender Studies Students Are Changing Themselves and the World (Routledge, 2011).

Dr. Berger has been a member of the faculty at the University of North Carolina since 2002. She previously served on the faculty of the University of Nevada at Las Vegas. Dr. Berger is a graduate of Bard College in New York and holds a Ph.D. in political science from the University of Michigan

Read More: http://www.jbhe.com/2014/11/study-finds-poor-communication-between-african-american-mothers-and-daughters-on-hivaids/

16. GETTING TO ZERO: SPEAKING OF CANCER PREVENTION - PART 2

*Dr. Oveta Fuller

Prevention is better than cure. The American Cancer Society states that at least 50% of the cancers that occur in the USA could be prevented.

A review

Loss of normal growth control of cells leads to “transformed cells.” Transformed cells are removed by immune surveillance or may ultimately form benign or malignant tumor masses.

Purposeful healthy living can reduce the risks of developing cancer. We can, (1) reduce exposure to substances that can affect cell growth control, and (2) boost the immune surveillance system so that it can detect and remove transformed cells.

What matters

Cell transformation is increased by smoking, high alcohol consumption, excess direct sunshine, breathing in asbestos and other carcinogenic reagents and exposure to some microbial pathogens. Lung cancer, skin cancer, colon cancer and cervical cancer are some examples of cancer due to exposure to these carcinogens.

Research outcomes strongly indicate that food intake matters in disease prevention. Certain foods contain high levels of anti-oxidants that boost the body’s cancer defenses. In contrast, other foods contain additives (high salt, nitrates as preservatives, saturated fats) that can contribute to changes in cell growth control or reduce immune surveillance to remove transformed cells.

Dos and don’ts for prevention

Here are some wellness actions to reduce loss of cell growth control and development of cancer.

Things to avoid:

Do not smoke or chew tobacco.

Do not regularly inhale secondary smoke, coal dust or lung irritating particles such as baby powder or gasoline fumes.

Avoid excessive sunlight and use a sunscreen if in direct sun for more than 15 minutes.

Avoid exposure to known household carcinogens such as radon gas, ultraviolent light, benzene, lead, asbestos and formaldehyde. (See www.cancer.org/cancercauses/othercarcinogens/index)

Avoid excess alcohol consumption.

Avoid exposure to infectious agents such as human papilloma virus (HPV) that is transmitted by sexual intercourse and hepatitis B and C viruses that are transmitted mainly by blood contact.

Things to do:

Keep physically active to move frequently.

Regularly exercise. This can be as simple as walking for 20 or more minutes each day.

Aim to make vegetables and fruits at least half or more of the daily food consumed. 

Include whole grains in bread and rice. Get rid of consuming highly refined products such white bread and white sugar where the most nutritious parts have been removed.

Eat colorful vegetables, fruits and foods like cabbage, greens, broccoli, tomatoes, fish, legumes, nuts. They are high in anti-oxidants, vitamins and minerals to boost immune system surveillance.

Drink at least 9 cups of fluid daily. Water makes up 60% of body weight. It is critical for adequate energy and metabolism. Consume more water and less sugar-filled drinks or beverages with caffeine or sugar substitutes. Limit juice intake because of its high sugar content.

There is no magic bullet cure or vaccine for the various kinds of cancer. Yet individual healthy habits help to prevent developing cancer and help to reduce the impact and effects if it does occur.

Routine screening tests are critical

A major part of preventing cancer is completing routine periodic screenings. Such screenings can identify early a mass or lump of out of growth control cell.  Self-breast exams, mammograms, prostate exams, colonoscopy and other screening tests can detect a transformed cell mass while it is small.

 

If a tumor is present, early detection translates to less growth and spread of tumor cells. Metastasis is less likely.  With early detection, chances are higher for successful removal or monitoring to determine a management plan.

Routine screening tests are usually scheduled as part of an annual physical. They can occur at intervals that may vary with age and other health conditions. 

For example, self-breast exams should begin in the teen years. Mammograms are not needed for young woman, but are essential for women in the child-bearing ages and after. Mammograms may begin earlier for females who have a family history of breast cancer.

Timing is important

Vaccination for HPV, as a recent addition to cancer prevention, occurs in the early teens (12-16). This timing best prepares the immune system for lifelong protection against HPV infection as a major cause of cervical cancer. Although young teens typically are not sexually active to come in contact with sexually transmitted HPV, the early teen time is most suitable to prime the immune system for protection against later exposure to the HPV. Over many years HPV infection that is transmitted by sexual contact can lead to transformation of cells. For some, eventually cervical cancer can develop.

When dealing with cells that have lost growth control, time typically is not an ally.

If a tumor mass is detected early, the need for extensive surgery, chemotherapy or radiation therapy is lowered. The chances are higher for success in complete removal or destruction of the transformed cells.

Take home points

It makes sense that purposeful choices in what we eat and drink matters. It makes sense that earlier detection to determine options for managing a tumor mass works best. Get those screening tests. Check with a health professional or tell someone as soon as you notice a change that seems unusual to you in tissue or body function.

Early detection through screening tests works hand-in hand with healthy nutrition. The right foods boost the body’s immune surveillance or increase presence of cancer fighting anti-oxidants.

Enhancing behaviors to avoid potential carcinogens are a first line defense to lower risks of cell transformation as the start of growth control changes that lead to tumor cell masses.

We have not won the war against cancer. While some tumors or cancers can be managed by surgery or medical therapies, there is no one magic bullet to fight cancer.  Prevention is best.

Fortunately, there are multiple ways to augment the amazing features of the human body that are designed to keep it free of cancer.

*Dr. Oveta Fuller is an Associate Professor of Microbiology and Immunology and Faculty of the African Studies Center at the University of Michigan and Adjunct Faculty at Payne Theological Seminary. An Itinerant Elder in the 4^th Episcopal District, she conducts HIV/AIDS prevention research in Zambia and the USA. She lived in Zambia for most of 2013 as a J. William Fulbright Scholar. 

17. iCHURCH SCHOOL LESSON BRIEF FOR SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 2014 – LIFE NEEDS WATER - EZEKIEL 47:1, 3–12:

*Bill Dickens

Today’s Church School lesson looks at the paramount role of water in the human experience. Ezekiel imparts God’s truth to the people about how He will restore life through water. 

When astronomers search for life outside of our solar system, they look right past the gas giants like Saturn and Jupiter, past the torrid, rocky planets like Mercury and Venus, and past the dwarf planets like Pluto. They stop when they find an exoplanet like Gliese 581d. Gliese 581d is about 50 percent larger than Earth, and like Earth, it orbits in what's known as a star's habitable zone, the stellar sweet spot where a planet is capable of having liquid water. And where there's water, there might, just possibly, be life.

Our bodies also use water to flush out toxins, regulate body temperature and aid our metabolism. No wonder, then, that water makes up nearly 60 percent of our bodies or that we can't go for more than a few days without it.

Ezekiel’s God understood this from the beginning.  It is a comforting message to his people to hear that God remains the God of Life.

Ezekiel 47:1-5 Life and Worship

This part of Ezekiel’s vision contains both a mystical and spiritual meaning also. The prophecy of Zechariah 14:8 talks about living waters that shall go out from Jerusalem, half of them towards the former sea and half of them towards the hinder sea. And there is plainly a reference to this in St. John’s vision of a pure river of water of life, Revelation 22:1. That seems to represent the glory and joy which are grace perfected. This seems to represent the grace and joy which are glory begun. Most interpreters agree that these waters in Ezekiel’s vision signify the gospel of Christ, which went forth from Jerusalem, and spread itself into the countries about, and the gifts and powers of the Holy Ghost which accompanied it, and by virtue of which it spread far and produced strange and blessed effects.

Ezekiel 47:6-12 Life and Water

It has been often said that in the scripture, like these waters of the sanctuary, there are some places so shallow that a lamb may wade through them and others so deep that an elephant may swim in them. And it is our wisdom, as the prophet here, to begin with that which is most easy, and get our hearts washed with those things before we proceed to that which is dark and hard to be understood; it is good to take our work before us.

The extent of this river: It issues towards the east country, but thence it either divide itself into several streams or fetches a compass, so that it goes down into the desert, and so goes into the sea, either into the dead sea, which lay southeast, or the Sea of Tiberias, which lay northeast, or the great sea (Mediterranean Sea), which lay west, v. 8. This was accomplished when the gospel was preached with success throughout all the regions of Judea and Samaria (Acts. 8:1) and afterwards the nations about and those that lay most remotely, even in the isles of the sea were enlightened and leavened by it. The sound of it went forth to the end of the world; and the enemies of it could no more prevail to stop the progress of it than that of a mighty river. The healing virtue of this river is unmatched in history.

In 1998 two eminent Ivy League presidents wrote a book, which used the metaphor of the river as an important way to communicate the life and liberty for a racially diverse U.S. college student- base.  The authors, William G. Bowen and Derek Bok, titled their book - The Shape of the River: Long-Term Consequences of Considering Race in College and University Admissions.  Bowen and Bok debunk the myth that minority students who are admitted under race-sensitive admissions do not succeed in the tough institutions where they are enrolled. In the College and Beyond "universe" (terminology used by the authors to describe the selective schools in the study), 79% of the underrepresented students who began college in 1989 graduated, compared to a similar study of NCAA Division I institutions where only 40% of Blacks graduated six years after entrance. The myth that students will perform better at institutions where they have SAT scores similar to the rest of the student body (the "fit" hypothesis) is also dismantled through the authors' analysis. Their findings do suggest that those students with higher SAT scores graduated at higher rates than those with lower scores.

The shape of the river for Bowen and Bok provides an indicator about life’s opportunities.  Just like in a biological sense we need the river to sustain life we also need the river to sustain the life and livelihood to all college bound students so that they can have equal access to the benefits of post-secondary learning.  Like Ezekiel before the publication of this influential book, life and water go hand in hand.

*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 African Methodist Episcopal Church

18. MEDITATION BASED ON PSALM 119:97-105:

*The Rev. Dr. Joseph A. Darby

“Oh, how I love your law! I meditate on it all day long. Your commands make me wiser than my enemies, for they are ever with me. I have more insight than all my teachers, for I meditate on your statutes. I have more understanding than the elders, for I obey your precepts. I have kept my feet from every evil path so that I might obey your word. I have not departed from your laws, for you yourself have taught me. How sweet are your words to my taste, sweeter than honey to my mouth! I gain understanding from your precepts; therefore I hate every wrong path. Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light for my path.” Psalm 119:97-105 (NIV)

Being the Presiding Elder of the Beaufort District has led me to appreciate a particular class of small items that are easily taken for granted - road reflectors.  Some of the roads that traverse the Beaufort District are modern, four lane highways, but others are little more than narrow, two lane, paved paths that can sometimes make driving an adventure - especially when a heavy rain rolls in at night and all but obscures the road.

I do my best to stick to the more modern roads on rainy nights - even if it means going a few miles out of my way - because most modern roads have reflectors - small, triangular, plastic gadgets glued to the center and side lines of highways.  They don’t “light up” on their own, but are illuminated by an oncoming vehicle’s headlights, and they make it easier for drivers to assure that they’re safe, in the right lane and still on the road.  I’ve come to appreciate those small, plastic gadgets, because as insignificant as they seem to be, they show you which way to go, especially in bad weather and especially storms.

           

God’s word functions in the same way as those reflectors do as we travel life’s roads.  It’s easy for all of us to be consumed by our search for easy and clear roads to success, prosperity, peace of mind and well-being, only to have sickness, sorrow, depression and rejection unexpectedly rain down on us, obscure our spiritual vision and make us wonder whether we’re still on course and whether we’ll survive and be well.

When we turn, however, to the God who made us and knows us best and take the time to study and trust in God’s Word, we’ll find new energy and new direction for life’s journey.  We’ll trust God to get us to where we want to, know that even when we can’t see our way, God will illuminate the required paths for us to reach and achieve new blessings and new victory.

Trust in the Lord and lean on God’s word, even when life’s raging storms do their best to confuse and distract you.  You’ll then stay the course, reach your goal, and say with one modern songwriter, “Order my steps in your word, dear Lord; lead me, guide me every day; send your anointing, Father, I pray; order my steps in your word.”

This Meditation is also available as a Blog on the Beaufort District’s Website: www.beaufortdistrict.org

Facebook at: www.facebook.com/BeaufortDistrictAMEC

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

19. CLERGY FAMILY CONGRATULATORY ANNOUNCEMENTS:

-- The Rev. Carolyn Habersham the proud grandmother of Ian Michael Charles Brown

The Rev. Carolyn Habersham, pastor of Greater Turner Chapel in Greensburg, Louisiana and Connectional 1st VP Women In Ministry is the proud grandmother of Ian Michael Charles Brown born October 27, 2014 8 lbs, 14 oz. 22 inches. The proud parents are Sterling and April Brown.

-- The Rev. and Mrs. Bruce Points announce the birth of granddaughter Haviland Brooke Points

The Rev. Bruce and Mrs. Cassandra Points proudly announce the birth of their third granddaughter, Haviland Brooke Points. Baby Haviland, their "hallelujah grandbaby" was born on Oct. 31st 2014. She weighed 6 lbs, 9 oz and was 20 ½ long. The Rev. Points is the pastor of Zion AME Church in Philadelphia Pennsylvania and Mrs. Cassandra Points, a member of the 1^st Episcopal District M-SWAWO,

The proud parents are Bruce Points Jr. and Danielle Points.

Congratulatory message can be emailed to: 

 The Rev. and Mrs. Bruce Points: sonnie949@aol.com 

-- Ms. Lauren Wilson, daughter of Presiding Elder Melvin Wilson’s article published in the online edition of Ebony Magazine

The Rev. Melvin E. Wilson, Presiding Elder, Brooklyn-Westchester District, and Director of Stewardship & Leadership Development, New York Annual Conference, 1st Episcopal District African Methodist Episcopal Church proudly shares an article written by his oldest daughter, Lauren, which was picked up on Monday, November 3^rd by the online edition of Ebony Magazine.

Lauren is a 2014 graduate of Claflin University in Orangeburg, SC. Her major was English. She is currently employed by Higher Heights for America of Brooklyn, New York, an agency which supports women who want to run for political office nationwide.

http://www.ebony.com/news-views/will-young-blacks-rock-the-vote-once-again-403#ixzz3I1wFH3OM 

Congratulatory messages can be emailed to:

Presiding Elder Melvin E. Wilson: pemewilson@gmail.com

-- Congratulations, Ruth L. Tisdale

Ruth LaShonda Tisdale, a proud graduate of The Wake Forest University School of Law on May 19, 2014, recently passed the New State Bar Examination.   She passed with a score high enough to allow her acceptance to the Washington, D. C. Bar, as well.

.

Ruth is currently practicing law as an Assistant District Attorney with the District Attorney Office in Bronx, New York.  She wants to make a difference in caring for the system of justice as well as the people who come to and through it on both sides.

Ruth is the youngest daughter of the Reverend Julius W. Tisdale, pastor of St. Phillips AME Church in Monticello, Florida, and the Rev. Sylvia E. Tisdale. She is the niece of the Rev. Glannie E. Tisdale, pastor of New Mt Carmel AME Church in Hemingway, South Carolina.

Congratulatory email can be sent to:

Ruth L. Tisdale:  tisdrl11@wfu.edu  

The Rev. J. W. Tisdale: jwtallen@aol.com

Mail to:

Ruth L. Tisdale

P. O. Box 30646

Pensacola, FL

Telephone: (703) 869-5082

20. EPISCOPAL FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

We rejoice in the homegoing of our sister, Cynthia Adams Carter, the sister of Mother Beverly Thomas, former Episcopal Supervisor and widow of Bishop Robert Thomas, Jr.  Her fight with Multiple Sclerosis and subsequent health issues ended Tuesday, November 4, 2014 with her triumphant entry into God's heavenly home.  Remembering always her faith, strength, love and kindness are her sisters: Mother Beverly Thomas, Opralee Beatty, Victoria Howard, and a host of relatives and friends.

Condolences may be sent to:

The family c/ o Beverly Thomas

17751 Hamilton Road

Detroit, Michigan

Email: artx.ame@gmail.com

21. GENERAL OFFICER FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

We regret to announce the passing of the Rev. Reese Barbour, brother of General Officer Dr. Johnny Barbour Jr., President/Publisher of the AMEC Sunday School Union. We solicit your prayers for his family.

The funeral will be held Saturday, November 15, 2014

Visitation: 11:00 a.m.

Funeral: 12:00 Noon

Jerusalem Baptist Church

445 Dorr Street

Toledo, OH 43604

Telephone: (419) 248-2139

The funeral arrangements are being handled by:

House of Day Funeral Home

2550 Nebraska Ave.

Toledo, OH 43607

Telephone: (419) 534-2550

Fax: (419) 534-2570

Condolences may be sent in care of:

Mrs. Shirley Barbour

2845 Upton Avenue

Toledo, OH 43606

Dr. Johnny Barbour Jr.

1385 LaBoldi Avenue

Nashville, TN 37207

Email: u_sunday@bellsouth.net 

Dr. Johnny Barbour, Jr.

500 Eighth Avenue South

Nashville, TN 37203

22. GENERAL OFFICER FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

It is with heartfelt sympathy that we inform you of the passing of Mrs. Lillie B. Jones Small, the beloved sister of Mrs. Melanie Jones Thibodeaux, the widow of the late Reverend Dr. Gaius Howley Julian Thibodeaux.  Dr. Thibodeaux, a General Officer in the AME Church, served as Secretary-Treasurer of the AMEC Department of Evangelism and Worship.  Mrs. Small passed away on Monday, October 13, 2014.

Her Homegoing Celebration took place on Saturday, October 18, 2014 at Shiloh Baptist Church in Shreveport, Louisiana.  For more than 35 years, Mrs. Small worked in the Continuing Education Division of the National Baptist Convention, including the Louisiana State Division and the 13th District Association.  She also served as Dean on the local and state levels.  She was the first school teacher for children receiving long-term care at Charity Hospital, and retired as a school Principal. Mrs. Small was preceded in death by husband, the Rev. David Small and son, Mr. Haven Small.  She was a faithful woman of God, and a devoted family member who will be greatly missed.

Condolences and Expressions of Sympathy may be sent to:

Mrs. Melanie J. Thibodeaux at

Email: clancy_3@hotmail.com 

Mrs. Melanie J. Thibodeaux

C/o 4721 Mendosa Lane,

Dallas, TX 75227

23. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

We regret to announce the passing of Mr. Victor L Snardon, husband of the Rev. Vivian Mary Frances Snardon. Mr. Snardon passed on Monday morning, November 10, 2014 at The Medical Center in Bowling Green, Kentucky. 

The Rev. Vivian Snardon, a retired AME Minister pastored churches in the 4^th Episcopal District (Indiana Conference) and the 13^th Episcopal District (West Kentucky Conference).  The Rev. Snardon and her husband are members of Greater Taylor Chapel AME Church in Franklin, Kentucky where the Rev. Erika Taylor is the pastor.

Funeral Service for Mr. Victor L Snardon:

Friday, November 14, 2014

Wake: 12:00 Noon

Funeral Service following at 1:00 p.m.

Mount Pleasant Baptist Church

70 Pleasant Lane

Allensville, KY 42204

The Rev. Melanie Samuels Black, Eulogist; pastor of Wards Chapel A.M.E. Church in Scottsville, Kentucky

The remains have been entrusted to:

Pettus Rowland Funeral Home, Inc.

P. O. Box 667

1229 Madison Street

Paducah, KY 42002-0667

Telephone:  (270)-442-5749

Fax: (270)-442-0272

Expressions of sympathy may be sent to:

The Rev. Vivian Mary Frances Snardon

178 West Villa Drive

Bowling Green, KY 42101

Telephone: (270)-796-9373

Email: Vmaryfran2@aol.com 

24. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

We regret to announce the passing of the Rev. Obadiah (Lawrence Obie) Kenneth Twiggs on Thursday, November 6, 2014. We solicit your prayers for his family. He was superannuated pastor and former presiding elder in the East Tennessee Annual Conference of the 13th Episcopal District. He was a member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. and a Prince Hall Mason.

The following information has been provided regarding the funeral arrangements.

The Visitation & Viewing: Monday, November 10, 2014, 6:00-7:00 p.m.

John P. Franklin Funeral Home

1101 Dodds Avenue

Chattanooga, TN 37404

(423) 622-9995

The Funeral: Tuesday, November 11, 2014, 12:00 Noon

Bethel A. M. E. Church

2000 Walker Street

Chattanooga, TN 37404

(423)622-1261

The Rev. A. J. Holman, Sr., Pastor/Eulogist

Condolences may be sent in care of:

Mrs. Sarah Twiggs

6420 Ridge Lake Road

Hixson, TN 37343

Telephone: (423) 842-6346

In Lieu of flowers, send tributes to Bethel AME Church Renovation/Building Fund.

25. CONNECTIONAL LAY OFFICER FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

The Passing of the uncle of Connectional Lay Officer, Walter C. Jeffers

We regret to announce the passing of Rev. Lee Mason, Jr., the uncle of Walter C. Jeffers, Director of Public Relations - Connectional Lay Organization.

The following information has been provided regarding the funeral arrangements.

Celebration of Life & Burial (Private Family Service)

Friday November 14, 2014 - 10:00 a.m.

Philadelphia, PA

Memorial Service will be held Saturday, November 15, 2014 at 11:00 a.m.

Northeast Baptist Church

4744 Tackawanna Street

Philadelphia, PA 19124

Office: (215) 533-4648

Expressions of Sympathy & Condolences can be sent to:

The Mason Family

C/O Walter C. Jeffers (Nephew)

1626A West Diamond Street

Philadelphia, PA 19121

Electronic Submissions can be sent via email to:

Email: WCJEFFERS18@GMAIL.COM 

26. 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/  

Telephone: (615) 837-9736 (H)

Telephone: (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   

27. 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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