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
-- October is National
Breast Cancer Awareness Month
October is Domestic
Violence Awareness Month
-- Pastors Appreciation
Month
-- Daylight Saving Time
ends November 2, 2014
(Set clocks back one
hour)
1. TCR
EDITORIAL –THE AME CHURCH IS FACING SOME TOUGH ISSUES:
Dr. Calvin H.
Sydnor III
The 20th
Editor of The Christian Recorder
The Ebola outbreak,
Wilberforce University, and Morris Brown College are just a few of the pressing
issues facing the African Methodist Episcopal Church. All three are serious
issues. And, added to those issues are
the financial issues facing many of our local churches. Many of our churches
here and abroad are struggling.
The struggles are
real, but when we think of the Ebola virus struggles faced by our brothers and
sisters in West Africa, it might put our struggles in perspective; and our
struggles just might not be as serious as we imagined.
Ebola
Ebola is real and
it affects our Zion “up close and personal.” We have AME Church members in
Sierra Leone, Guinea and Liberia and some of them have died. The World Health Organization estimates that
new Ebola cases could reach as high as 10,000 a week; that’s a lot of people.
If the death rate
spirals higher, political instability in the region is a reality. The Ebola
virus in West Africa and particularly in Liberia is a vital interest because it
can cause unrest and instability in Liberia and in the region.
The virus can expand beyond West Africa
If the Ebola virus
expands appreciably in the U.S., the Ebola virus might ultimately be seen as a
national interest. I believe the Ebola crisis is approaching the “national
interest” level.
The three
“interests” that precipitate a country’s serious attention and intervention and
even precipitate going to war are, “national, vital and survival” interests.
Those are key words and when you read those words in a news article or hear
those words used in a news presentation, it should capture your attention.
If Ebola is not
contained, it can lead to serious consequences that affect investors, the
economy, create medical havoc. Dr. Oveta
Fuller in today’s Getting to Zero
column notes, “Guinea, Liberia, Nigeria, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Spain, and the
United States of America have reported official cases and deaths from Ebola
virus disease.”
Permit me to say…
Four articles near
the end of this posting (10/17/14 – Items: 8 - 11), just prior to iChurch School and Meditation columns
have informative articles about the Ebola virus. Suggest you read them because we
all need to be concerned and informed.
Let me get back on point
The Ebola virus is
serious and AMEs and all of the people in the affected areas need our prayers,
but also need our financial support. We listed ways to make contributions in
last week’s posting of The Christian
Recorder Online.
Money is needed to
purchase sanitation and water purification kits and other necessities.
We, as individuals
and as the AME Church, need to “step up to the plate” and be prepared to make
some serious donations. The African Methodist Episcopal Church is committed to
helping our brothers and sisters in the areas of West Africa affected by the
Ebola virus.
The African Methodist Episcopal
Church has spoken through The Council of Bishops’ message penned by Bishop
Jeffrey N. Leath who reminds us, “This is a time for faith-based action;
prayers are appreciated, but financial support is also needed.”
The AME Church family is encouraged
to make monetary contributions even as we continue to pray; whether through
special offerings in your local church or direct contributions to AME Church or
directly to the 14th Episcopal District.
You may send donations to your
bishop’s office, the 14th Episcopal District or to The AME Finance
Department, 1134 11th Street NW, Washington, DC 20001. Checks may be
made to the AME Church. Add a note or indicate on the memo line: WWAMC or
Western West African Methodist Collaborative.
Monetary gifts can also be sent to
the 14th Episcopal District Office in Nashville, Tennessee, which
will forward funds to the AME Relief Team in Liberia that will administer the
project with assistance from HOPE, Inc., a non-governmental organization (NGO)
sponsored by Empowerment Temple AME Church in Monrovia, Liberia. Payments of Checks, Money Orders, and online
via PayPal are all ways to respond.
Checks and Money Orders can be mailed to the 14th Episcopal
District, 512 8th Avenue South, Suite 103
Nashville, TN 37203. 14th Episcopal District Telephone:
(615) 744-6244.
PayPal payments can use the
following link:
Mrs. Alexia B. Fugh, 14th
Episcopal Supervisor said, “Not only will we be helping our AME sisters and
brothers in West Africa; we will be providing a powerful witness for Christ.
This is something we can and must do!”
The Ebola virus is
serious
People cannot meet for religious
services because of the Ebola crisis.
People have to be careful shaking or
holding hands, hugging or greeting church members with a “holy kiss” because
people don’t know who has been exposed to Ebola.
In addition to their medical needs,
people need shelter and food.
The Ebola crisis creates fear and
havoc. Food prices rise and transportation is disrupted, and suspicion and fear
prevail.
Just imagine what would happen if we
faced this issue in the United States, South Africa or in the Caribbean. You
can’t assemble because you don’t know who has the virus. Food becomes scarce. You are “imprisoned” in
your own home and in your community. If a loved on one dies from Ebola, you
cannot even give your loved one a last hug or handle the body of the deceased.
People with protective gear, people you don’t know come in and take the body
for a hasty burial. No funeral because there is no gathering, plus the fact
that other family members may have contracted Ebola. Paranoia has to be a
by-product of the Ebola crisis.
The atmosphere of fear and contagion
grips even the staunchest Christians.
Ebola is life-threatening and if it
is not contained, it may touch some of us. As a matter of fact, it has already
touched us because it has touched members of the AME Family in West Africa.
It’s time for all of us, young and
old, to “Step up to the plate” and make a contribution to this serious
situation that will not be going away anytime soon.
Your donation will
be appreciated, no matter the amount - $1, $5, $10, $20, $50 whatever amount is
appreciated. If you can’t give $5 send $1; no amount is too small.
And, that’s not all
We are facing a
serious issue at Wilberforce University.
The University is at a crossroads. It too, needs our attention – please
read “Prayers and money.” Prayers work,
but money can fulfill the focus of our prayers.
We also need an
update on the status of Morris Brown College.
And, at some point
we need an update status from all of our academic institutions here in the
United States and abroad.
Let me get real
We need prayers,
but we need financial support too! And, with prayers and financial support we
need accountability.
And, one other thing
As we “go down the
Ebola road, we all need to be careful. I hear news reports and read missives
from the government saying individuals can’t contract Ebola from this and that,
etc.
Well, let me tell
you that governments sometimes don’t always put the “truth out there” or maybe
they don’t have all of the answers. I
remember being in a combat zone and being told, “Everything is well. The area
is clear, no contaminants...” and being notified by letter years later about
being exposed to “low levels of chemical warfare agents…”
Not to be an
alarmist, but my point is, “hope for the best and prepare for the worse,” and
use common sense and don’t get careless if the Ebola outbreak worsens.
Sad to say, but
have to say it, “If the Ebola outbreak had happened in Europe, the U.S. and the
rest of the world would have been all over this issue.”
2. READER RESPONSE TO EDITORIAL AND OTHER ISSUES:
-- To the Editor:
Re: TCR Editorial - Don't Let Neglect Kill
Ministry of Your Local Church:
You have hit so
many nails on the head in this editorial!
I recall a pastor who lost a very active, good member because he chose
to mess with a wedding. It involved the mother and father of the bride who
wanted a family member to officiate, or at least have some part in their
daughter's wedding. The pastor refused the request. Also, this pastor
apparently was not familiar with the “unity candle” used in many weddings and
he refused that request also. It seemed that the pastor was uncaring, unfeeling
and insisted on have his way. The family left the church and joined the church
of another denomination and became active in that church- the AME Church's loss
– the other church’s gain.
Also, lots of
conversations among laity about pastors who don't visit sick and shut-ins and
hospital patients. And more complaints about those who don’t visit hospitals,
but expect to do a “dog and pony show" in conducting the funeral of
a deceased member who was never visited by the pastor. Oh, my goodness!
Name withheld
-- To the Editor:
RE: The East Annual Conference and the Sons of
Allen Annual Service
Allow me to great
you in the Name of the Father, Son and the Holy Spirit.
Last Sunday was a
great one as we were closing the East Annual Conference in the 19th
Episcopal District, under the leadership of the Rt. Rev. Paul Kawimbe.
The closing
service was lead by Rev TS Setai (PE in the church) and the closing sermon was
delivered by the Rt. Rev Reginald T Jackson (Bishop of the 20th episcopal
district) and he delivered a spiritually lifting sermon. The sermon was
followed by a prayer and giving out of appointments.
On Saturday there
was a business session and it was followed by an Annual Service for the Sons of
Allen. In the service, we were really privileged to hear a sermon from the
Chaplain-General of the SADF and the sermon was based on the book of Nehemiah.
The chaplain gave a very moving sermon. Later on in the day we had a preacher
from the United States who gave the word in the ordination service, He gave a
very powerful sermon and a warning with concern to the road that lay ahead.
Yours in Christ,
KA MOLOI
3. PRAYER REQUEST:
Bermuda faces the
advancement of Hurricane Gonzalo and we expect a direct hit on Bermuda. Bermuda
has been spared many times and our God is able. Please pray for our safety and
the protection of God for our churches.
The Rev. Betty L.
Furbert-Woolridge JP, Presiding Elder Bermuda Conference of AME Churches
4. DR. PHYLLIS QUALLS-BROOKS, FOLLOWING THE
TRAIL OF AME WOMEN IN NASHVILLE, SUPPORTED BY FELLOW AME'S AT STELLAR EVENT:
On October 2, 2014,
the YWCA of Nashville and Middle Tennessee welcomed six amazing women into the
Academy for Women of Achievement at
this year’s “Celebrating Women Who Have Changed the Conversation.”
This year's
honorees are Janet Ayers, Rosetta Miller-Perry, Rita Mitchell, Phyllis
Qualls-Brooks, Abby Rubenfeld, and Laura Smith Tidwell. The corporate honoree
is Seigenthaler Public Relations.
Dr. Phyllis
Qualls-Brooks is the fifth member of the African Methodist Episcopal Church to
receive the prestigious award. She
follows in the footsteps of four extraordinary women who are members of the
African Methodist Episcopal Church who have been honored with the esteemed
award.
They are:
Dr. Jamye Coleman
Williams - 1996
Mrs. Joyce Espy
Searcy - 2000
Mrs. Delorse Lewis
- 2001
Dr. Vera Stevens
Chatman - 2013
Of this year’s
six recipients, three African American women were bestowed the honor. They were Mrs. Rosetta Miller-Perry,
publisher of the Tennessee Tribune
newspaper and Contempora magazine; Mrs.
Rita Mitchell, vice president of First Tennessee Bank and Dr. Phyllis
Qualls-Brooks, executive director of the Tennessee Economic Council on Women.
The co-producer
of the AWA Awards Ceremony was Point 3 Media. You may visit the YWCA YouTube page to view the videos and be
inspired by the lives of all these women.
The proceeds from
the AWA event go to support the YWCA's shelter, 24-hour hotline, and other
domestic violence services. The sponsors
who made the event possible were -- First Tennessee, The Tennessean, MP&F,
Dollar General, and DVL.
5. ST. STEPHEN AME CHURCH-KENNER, LOUISIANA
ANNUAL WOMEN’S CONFERENCE:
The Reverend Dr.
Alice Hubbard Crenshaw, pastor of St. Stephen AME Church in Kenner, Louisiana
presented the 3rd Gathering of Women’s Conference August 21-23,
2014.
The power of the
Living God rest, ruled, and abounded throughout the conference.
Mrs. Tiffany
LaFrance represented the National Office of the NAACP. She presented a workshop
on NAACP and the black church - HIV/AIDS.
Mrs. La France gave
“A Presentation for Community/Faith Leaders Engagement & Approaches for
Eradication.”
The conference was
given an overview of HIV in the United States.
The fast facts include:
-- More than 1.1
million people in the United States are living with HIV infection, and almost 1
in 6 (15.8%) are unaware of their infection.
-- Gay, bisexual,
and other men who have sex with men (MSMa), particularly young black/African
American MSM, are most seriously affected by HIV.
-- By race,
blacks/African Americans face the most severe burden of HIV.
The church can
serve as “A health partnership vs. a health crisis intervention by awareness,
engagement, mobilization, sustainable change, education & leadership
participated by every church member.
An appropriate
challenge at altar calls: “What will you do?
HIV is one of the
largest and most urgent social justice/civil rights issues facing our community
today. It is not just a health issue; it is also a social justice issue.
As members of the
AME faith community or a faith leader, we should respond to the Mission of the
AME Church and should answer challenge to serve the oppressed, sick, and
downtrodden.
Our faith requires
that we respond with mercy and compassion with a strong commitment to eliminate
the injustice of HIV.
As pastor of St.
Stephen AME Church, the Rev. Dr. Crenshaw acknowledges that the black church
has a history of helping.
Since the
beginning, African-American houses of worship have served their communities and
as loud voices on social justice issues, ranging from poverty to
discrimination. The same black church that ushered in the historic victories of
the civil rights era will stand once again at the forefront of this important
social justice issue.
Some statistics
show in the United States there were children 13 years of age diagnosed living
with Aids, 95% of whom were infected through mother-to-child transmission
(prenatal infection; 63% of these children were black and only 12% were
white. In Louisiana, 171 infants were born
to HIV infected mothers, 88% were black. In 2010, 5 infants were prenatally
infected with HIV and 4 were black. In the past 5 years, 81% of all prenatally
infected infants were black.
Pastor Crenshaw in
her research discovered that in the metro area of New Orleans and surrounding
cities, 85 new black females and 207 black males were reported having HIV/AID.
Baton Rouge has the
highest with 100 new females and they come in second 163 black males these are
new cases. New Orleans and Baton Rouge regions have the greatest number of
blacks living with HIV infection of all nine regions. In 2012, there were
11,160 persons living with HIV infection in the New Orleans and Baton Rouge
regions; 72% were black.
Once again, the New
Orleans region is second to Baton Rouge in that we have 1,406 (30%0 to their
1,626 35% black females and NOLA region for males is #1 in that we have 2,610
(32%) males to Baton Rouge’s 2,412 29%
blacks living with HIV Infection in Louisiana.
In Louisiana,
12,892 blacks were living with HIV infection as of December 31, 2012; 4,681
(36%) were female and 8,211 (64%) were male. Blacks make up 33% of the state’s
population; but 74% of new HIV cases are black and 76% of new AIDS cases are
black. 68% of all persons living with
HIV infection are black. In the State of La, the percentage of persons living
with HIV infection who are black is significantly higher than the percentage of
the general population that is black.
Among men, 70% of
all new HIV diagnoses are among blacks, and women 83% are black. Black women’s
case rates are 12 times greater than their white counterpart, and for males
they are 6 times greater than the HIV case rate for white males. In 2011, of
the new HIV diagnoses among blacks in Louisiana, 47% are men who have sex with
men, 12% are injection drug users, 3% are a combination of box men/drugs, and
38% are high risk heterosexuals.
But despite the
Center for Disease Control’s alarming findings that the number of new HIV/AIDS
infections among blacks is nearly 8 times the rate of whites and double that of
Latinos, churches have historically avoided discussion of the disease in order
to skirt other taboo topics such as homosexuality and premarital sex. New
Orleans, Kenner, and Metairie ranked 7th in the nation aids prevention
NAACP: Taking a powerful stand
The NAACP has taken
a responsibility of speaking up for those who do not have a voice – the
undiagnosed – by advocating for increased testing, education, and policies
aimed at stopping the rates of new infections and increasing the access to
care, especially in communities of color. We must also eradicate the stigma
facing HIV-positive people of color, who need compassion and resources the
most. They we can’t succeed in this journey alone. We, the black church, must
be their partner.
Domestic Violence Closet Issues Ms. Bridget Gibson
Lead discussions
dealing with the frequency and correlates of intimate partner violence by type
(physical, sexual assault, battering, or emotional abuse) among women seeking
information. In addition, Ms. Gibson
covered other topics such as: dating violence, stalking, and human trafficking.
Domestic violence
occurs among all races, ages, sexual orientations, gender identities, and
religions. It happens to people of all educational and income levels. Domestic
violence can include emotional, verbal, physical, and/or sexual abuse. The
women learned that battering accounts for more injuries to women than auto
accidents, rapes, and muggings combined. It was shocking to learn in families
where battering occurs, children are 70% more likely to be physically abused
and/or neglected.
Stirring the nest for wholeness: Sister Bettie Rhodes
Sister Bettie
Rhodes conveyed to us that “stirring the nest” sends us in pursuit of one who
can change the course of our lives and our destinies.
When the “nest is
stirred” carnal appetite is displaced with spiritual hunger.
Self-righteousness dies to godly desires. Complacency falls to a fiery
passion; compassion rages within the soul and leads to a giving of ourselves.
Spiritual growth and maturity occurs without warning and we find our lives
wrapped up in a situation perhaps where everything is at stake, our home, our
family, our job, or our health. Questions race through the mind …”God, Why?”
The reply comes back from God, “You cannot learn to fly in a church pew,
and you cannot learn to fly on the back of a pastor.”
Coping with Stress: The Honorable Cynthia Willard-Lewis
The Honorable
Willard-Lewis told the women that we need to discover the power inside each one
of us. We should learn how to unlock our abilities to be happy, successful, and
strong. Never let your mood, mind, and emotions hold you back.
A poor mood wears
and tears on your body leaving you feeling tired, drained, and empty inside.
It's incredibly
tough to be successful when your mind is working against you. Unhappiness can
damage your relationships. Hurting your family and friends and making everyday
a struggle. The Honorable Cynthia Willard-Lewis said, “Until you accept responsibility
for the role you play in creating or maintaining it, your stress level will
remain outside your control. If your methods of coping with stress aren’t
contributing to your greater emotional and physical health, it’s time to find
healthier ones. There are many healthy ways to manage and cope with stress, but
they all require change. You can either change the situation or change your
reaction. When deciding which option to choose, it’s helpful to think of the
four A’s: avoid, alter, adapt, or accept. Since everyone has a unique response
to stress, there is no “one size fits all” solution to managing it. No single
method works for everyone or in every situation. Focus on what makes you feel
calm and in control.”
Religion and Psychiatry: the courage to Heal, the Rev.
Leona Fisher
The Rev. Fisher
showed us how spirituality plays an important role that is often overlooked in
one's healing process. Your "Spirituality" is an aspect of who you
are. "Healing" is ridding the body of disease, either mental or
physical, to bring about wellness, the results of which can be readily seen.
The Rev. Leona Spears Fisher stated, "You are body, mind, and spirit.
Health necessarily involves all of these components and any program intended to
improve health must address all of them. Many people consider spirit to be in
the province of religion, but she insists on making a clear distinction between
psychiatry and religion. Spirituality has to do with the nonphysical aspects of
your being - the part of you that existed before and will exist after the
disintegration of your body."
The Rev. Fisher
traced Religion and Psychiatry from Genesis to Revelation it began in the
Garden of Eden when our ancestors ate from the “tree of knowledge.”
Psychiatry and
Religion have many facets, including awareness of the world that surrounds us;
a sense of wonder, love, and gratitude; a practice of loving-kindness towards
yourself and others; listening to your intuition and trusting your heart.
Spiritual health is
evidenced by people demonstrating the ability to be authentic, face their
fears, let go of the past, and develop insight, forgiveness, peace, compassion,
and love. We were all amazed how the two
subjects became one interwoven in our lives.
On 8/21/14,
Thursday night a “Healing and Deliverance” worship sermon was delivered by
Evangelist Theresa Queen of Gonzales, Louisiana. She preached about the “Woman
who had issues trying to be healed was healed by touching the hem of Jesus’
garment. Evangelist Queen shared that we all have issues that need to be
healed.
Friday, 8/22/14, the Rev. Jessie Woolridge, Amite,
Louisiana preached on the “Woman at the well.” Women must drink from the water
that Jesus gives, if we really want to be healed.
We witnessed the
move of God as the sermons preached were utilized by all of the presentations
on Saturday. Seldom does one attend a symposium and everybody is par excellence; this was one of those
times.
All of the
presenters congratulated the other on their workshop presentations.
The closing sermon
was preached by Rev. Thelma Thomas who in essence told us whatever we need,
“God’s Got it” Just go to god in secret and “whoop,” there it is!
6. TEN WAYS TO LOVE
WITH CORRESPONDING BIBLE VERSES:
1.
Listen without interrupting- Proverbs 18
2.
Speak without accusing- James 1:19
3.
Give without sparing- Proverbs 21:26
4.
Pray without ceasing- Colossians 1:9
5.
Answer without arguing- Proverbs 17:1
6.
Share without pretending- Ephesians 4:15
7.
Enjoy without complaint- Philippians 2:14
8.
Trust without wavering- Corinthians 13:7
9.
Forgive without punishing- Colossians 3:13
10.
Promise without forgetting- Proverbs 13:12
7. MEN - DON'T FEAR THE FINGER - GET A PROSTATE EXAMINATION:
Cut and paste and forward this message to the men
in your life. A Prostate Exam is
important! This is a high priority message. I understand that prostate cancer
is the most preventable – if you get regular prostate screening/exams.
Spread
the word - Don' Fear the Finger –
8. INTERNATIONAL
INSTITUTE ROUND TABLE TO DISCUSS EBOLA:
ANN
ARBOR, MI–University of Michigan International Institute (II) will present the II Round Table Beyond Ebola: Navigating
Global Health Crises, Wednesday, October 22, 2014 from 4:00 p.m.-5:30 p.m.
at 1636 SSWB, 1080 S. University Ave. The event is free and open to the public;
it will be live-streamed with questions taken via Twitter using the hashtag
#BeyondEbola.
The
round table will explore the multi-disciplinary interplay of history, the science of the Ebola virus
(including replication, transmission, and controls), impacts of public policies
and infrastructure, factors in engaging community and predictions for control
of this and future epidemics. Panelists will discuss actions that must be put
in place for West Africa now and beyond the current epidemic—and how
to better prepare for other possible global health crises that could
arise.
The
U-M panelists are:
--
Kelly Askew (moderator), Director of the African Studies Center (ASC),
Professor of Anthropology, and Afro-American and African Studies
--
Joseph Eisenberg, Professor of Epidemiology, School of Public Health
--
A. Oveta Fuller, Professor of Microbiology and Immunology, Medical School and
Associate Director ASC
--
Renee Gerring, University of Liberia and U-M African Presidential Scholar
--
Michael McGovern, Professor of Anthropology
This
round table is co-sponsored by the African Studies Center, STEM-Africa
Initiative, and the Department of Microbiology and Immunology.
###
The
International Institute (II) advances the exchange of knowledge, ideas, and
resources across the University of Michigan campus and with partnering
institutions worldwide. Working actively with its centers and other academic
units, the institute expands and enriches instructional programs, advances
language study, and provides funding to students and faculty for research and
study overseas. The II also brings leading scholars together to address
international problems and collaborates with other academic units to recruit
faculty members with international and area studies expertise.
9. HHS ADVANCES
DEVELOPMENT OF THIRD EBOLA VACCINE:
Studies
will prepare vaccine candidate for clinical trials
The
development of a vaccine to prevent Ebola virus disease will be accelerated
with support from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Office of
the Assistant Secretary for Preparedness and Response (ASPR).
Under
a one-year contract with Profectus BioSciences Inc., headquartered in
Baltimore, ASPR’s Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority
(BARDA) will provide approximately $5.8 million in funding, in addition to
subject matter expertise and technical assistance, to further develop an
experimental Ebola vaccine. The company will manufacture vaccine for use in
animal safety studies and future clinical trials and conduct animal studies to
test safety. The contract can be extended to a total of 13 months and $8.6
million.
Upon
successful completion of this work, the company is expected to submit an
investigational new drug application to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration
(FDA). This application, once accepted by the FDA, would allow the vaccine to
begin the first clinical trials for safety in humans.
“We
are pushing hard to advance the development of multiple products as quickly as
possible for clinical evaluation and future use in preventing or treating this
deadly disease,” said BARDA Director Robin Robinson, Ph.D. “Our goal is to close the global gap in
vaccines and therapeutics needed to protect the public health from Ebola as
highlighted by the epidemic in West Africa.”
The
project builds on early research of this experimental vaccine supported by the
National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), part of the
National Institutes of Health, and animal studies supported by the Department
of Defense. In the DoD-supported studies, a single dose of the experimental
Ebola vaccine provided 100 percent protection in non-human primates. BARDA will
support further development of the vaccine against the Ebola virus strain
responsible for the current epidemic.
Clinical
trials are under way with other experimental vaccines. NIAID currently is
supporting Phase 1 clinical trials that examine an investigational Ebola
vaccine developed by GlaxoSmithKline and an experimental Ebola vaccine
developed by the Public Health Agency of Canada and licensed to NewLink
Genetics Corp. Phase 2 clinical efficacy trials for these vaccine candidates
are expected in 2015.
BARDA
also continues to explore how its Centers for Innovation in Advanced
Development and Manufacturing, its Fill Finish Manufacturing Network, or other
measures can accelerate the manufacturing time for Ebola therapeutics and
vaccines.
The
agency is seeking additional proposals for the advanced development of antibody
treatments, antiviral drugs, and vaccines against the Ebola and Marburg
viruses, both of which cause viral hemorrhagic fever. Program requirements are
described in BARDA’s Broad Agency Announcement BARDA-BAA-13-100-SOL-00013 at
https://www.fbo.gov.
HHS
is the principal federal agency for protecting the health of all Americans and
providing essential human services, especially for those who are least able to
help themselves. The Office of the Assistant Secretary for Preparedness and
Response (ASPR) leads HHS in preparing the nation to respond to and recover
from adverse health effects of emergencies, supporting communities’ ability to
withstand adversity, strengthening health and response systems, and enhancing
national health security.
Within
ASPR, BARDA develops and procures medical countermeasures – vaccines,
medicines, diagnostics and medical equipment – that address the public health
and medical consequences of chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear
(CBRN) accidents, incidents and attacks, pandemic influenza, and emerging
infectious diseases.
For
more information about advanced research and development of medical
countermeasures, visit www.medicalcountermeasures.gov.
Contract
opportunities and awards are announced at www.fbo.gov.
10. EBOLA IN THE
US: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW TO STAY SAFE:
By Dr. Caleph Wilson
By Dr. Caleph Wilson
October 2014
--
Check out our comprehensive list of must-know information about the devastating
health crisis
As we discuss the
current Ebola virus outbreaks, it is critical that we avoid both
panic and the spread of misinformation.
The
case of Thomas Eric Duncan, the first diagnosed case of Ebola in the US,
illustrated correctable problems. Communicating his travel history was
essential. Also, Mr. Duncan was sent home the first time he visited the
hospital despite giving a travel history of coming from Liberia. He was
discharged and sent home with a fever. By the time he was admitted to the
hospital four days later, he was in critical condition. His delay in
receiving timely care very likely contributed to his demise. It is concerning
that his care may have been impacted by his race and lacking health
insurance. So far none of his 72 contacts have shown symptoms of the
disease. However, there has been considerable stigmatization of the contacts
and neighbors.
To
date only two confirmed Ebola virus infection cases connected to Mr.
Duncan are healthcare workers from the hospital that treated Mr. Duncan.
The worker has only one known contact since she developed symptoms. The Centers
for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and state public health department are
involved in close monitoring of contacts and evaluating how the health worker
became infected. Seventy-six people were involved in Mr Duncan’s care while he
was in the hospital. So far only one worker has been diagnosed with
Ebola. Contrast this to the many West African healthcare workers who have
died due to their work with Ebola patients.
The
scale up has begun to bring healthcare workers, resources and facilities
upgrades to Guinea, Liberia and Sierra Leone. It will take a sustained
international effort to gain control of the current outbreaks. There is urgent
concern that the speed of the scale up needs to increase as infections in West
Africa continue to double every several weeks. At the same time US
hospitals, healthcare workers and the CDC continue to work on policies and
procedures to safely treat people in the US with Ebola, as well as, to limit
the spread of Ebola. We have been fortunate in the US that Ebola cases have
been limited to six people.
Here
are some important things to know about Ebola:
1)
Direct contact with an Ebola virus infected person’s body fluids is the primary
way to get Ebola. Crucially, determining who is at risk for Ebola
requires taking a travel history in addition to evaluating them for symptoms.
2)
We should be mindful of the members of our communities that have family and
friends living in the impacted areas in Liberia, Sierra Leone, Guinea and
the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). People living in the Ebola outbreak
areas are at a higher risk for infection due to a fragile medical
infrastructure and lack of resources.
3)
We can assist our West and Central African family; friends and neighbors by
continue to press for timely and accurate news about Ebola virus
outbreaks. Media and public attention will continue to encourage global
public health organizations, governments and NGOs to continue the scale up of
volunteer healthcare workers, supplies and facilities to stem the outbreak.
4)
Evidenced-based information is critical. Social media such as Twitter is
a rapid way to access expert information and conversations on Ebola. For
example, the National Science & Technology News Service (NSTNS, of which I
am a member) recently hosted an Ebola Twitter chat (#NSTNSchat) with
Professor A.O. Fuller, a virus expert from the University of Michigan. There
are a host of Ebola virus related hashtags with very good
information. It is critical to avoid sources that claim that Ebola is a hoax, a
conspiracy or isn’t real without any basis.
5)
Ebola virus disease (EVD) is an infection that causes bleeding, vomiting,
diarrhea and fever. These conditions are referred to as hemorrhagic fever.
Importantly, people infected with Ebola virus are not
contagious until they experience EVD symptoms. The virus overwhelms the
immune systems and causes blood vessels to become leaky, which causes severe
dehydration and bleeding. Amounts of virus sufficient to transmit to other
people are found in the body only once a person has symptoms such as
fever. Ebola can be contracted by direct contact with a patient’s blood,
vomit, diarrhea, saliva and sweat. Ebola is not airborne – so one cannot catch
it by casual contact alone.
6)
Infectious disease experts have been studying Ebola since it was first
discovered in the first recorded outbreak in 1976 in Zaire, which is
now known as the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The virus was named for the
Ebola River, which is near the where the first infections occurred.
Bats and apes carry Ebola virus, Ebola can be transmitted to humans that eat
“bush meat” (e.g., bats, small rodents and apes), other foods or materials
contaminated by infected animals. Also deforestation and mining in Guinea,
Liberia and Sierra Leone have brought humans in closer contact with animal
sources of the virus.
7)
In person-to-person infections, family caregivers and healthcare
providers are at higher risk to contract Ebola virus. Taking care of
symptomatic patients increases the risk of coming into contact with bodily
fluids containing high levels of Ebola virus. Appropriate safety equipment and
carefully following safety protocols is the best way to protect healthcare
workers while caring for patients.
8)
Frequent hand-washing and disinfecting surfaces are also important in
areas experiencing an outbreak and routine care of Ebola patients. There are
several experimental treatments for Ebola that have been used on a limited
basis. Primary treatment includes giving fluids, blood transfusion and
antibiotics if a patient develops a bacterial infection.
9)
Current Ebola virus outbreaks are rapidly spreading in Liberia and Sierra
Leone because of the lingering damage done during the civil wars from
1983-2005. Complicating the response to the outbreak has been fragile regional
economies, partially destroyed infrastructure and a shortage of physicians and
nurses. Many available clinics and hospitals lacked basic personal protection
equipment like gloves, goggle, masks and gowns, as well as limited running
water and electrical power. Government organizations and NGOs working in these
areas have been overwhelmed as the numbers of patients have outstripped
available treatment beds and healthcare workers.
Ebola
is real. Our response to stop Ebola will depend upon continued advocacy
for health equity for all.
Read
more at EBONY http://www.ebony.com/news-views/ebola-in-the-us-what-you-need-to-know-to-stay-safe-402#ixzz3GLGNUrE8
Follow
us: @EbonyMag on Twitter | EbonyMag on Facebook
Caleph
B. Wilson, Ph.D. is a full time biomedical researcher, science communicator and
STEM outreach advocate. Follow him on Twitter as @HeyDrWilson
**Reprint
permission granted by Jamilah Lemieux, Senior Editor, Digital, Ebony Magazine
11. GETTING TO ZERO: OCTOBER 2014 EBOLA VIRUS
UPDATE
*Dr.
Oveta Fuller
The
2014 global health crisis of Ebola virus (EV) infection continues with an
epicenter in the West African countries of Guinea, Sierra Leon and Liberia.
Take whatever action you can to make a positive difference in stopping Ebola
virus spread or reducing its impacts. Contribute to the 14th Episcopal
District sanitation kit drive ($42.00/kit), to Doctors Beyond Borders or to a place of your preference that
provides care or resources where most needed. With diligent action we can stop
this epidemic and the individual suffering it brings.
Spread of Ebola
virus updates
The
World Health Organization (WHO) reported on Oct 7 that 4,300 deaths and over
8,370 official cases of Ebola virus infection have occurred in the 2014
outbreak. Many deaths due directly or indirectly to Ebola are not reported. If
effective controls are not put in place, models of exponential Ebola virus
spread predict that 10,000 new cases/week could occur in the next months.
Besides
the many people who are sick, deceased or left vulnerable in the major
countries affected, infection also is detected outside of the epicenter. All of
these are caregivers who had direct contact with persons that contracted EV in
West Africa.
As
of October 15, a second healthcare provider in Texas has tested positive for EV
infection. Interestingly, the person traveled by air within 24 hours before
reporting to the hospital with a low grade fever. According to known Ebola
virus disease (EVD) features, there is no risk to those encountered in travels
since symptoms had not yet appeared. Closeness of travel time and first
recognition of a low grade fever warrant attentive surveillance of potential
contacts on the flight. TCR will follow further developments for contacts of
the second affected healthcare provider from Texas.
A
total of seven countries- Guinea, Liberia, Nigeria, Senegal, Sierra Leone,
Spain, and the United States of America have reported official cases and deaths
from EVD. In West Africa, the lack of
sufficient medical care leaves a dire situation for those who contract EV and
for families who are affected in multiple ways. In the USA, the Centers for
Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has put in updates to correct hospital
protocols and increased screening procedures at five major airports that
routinely receive travelers connecting from West Africa countries. We are
reminded that no country is an island isolated or protected from potential
reach of Ebola virus.
Useful
Resources: An Ebony. com article and a Johns Hopkins School of Public Health
Symposium.
An
insightful summary by a colleague, Dr. Caleph Wilson, on the 2014 Ebola
epidemic appeared in Ebony magazine and is reprinted in this TCR edition (see http://goo.gl/zWvJaa). As covered in TCR for some time, the Ebony
article again provides what each person should know about how to protect
against infectious diseases. Along with identifying, isolating and containing
those infected by EV and tracing their potential contacts by CDC, following
good hygiene procedures is especially critical for individuals as we enter into
the season of spread of influenza and cold viruses. An insightful forum at the
Johns Hopkins School of Public Health held on Tuesday October 14 provides a
more in-depth understanding of what is occurring in West Africa and what to do
here.
An
Invite to Upcoming October 22, 2014 “Beyond Ebola” Roundtable
At
4:00-5:30 p.m. ET on Wednesday October 22, the International Institute and
African Studies Center at the University of Michigan will host a
university-wide roundtable “Beyond Ebola: Navigating Global Health
Crises.” I will serve as one of the
expert panelists to cover topics that range from- virus infection, clinical
protection procedures, West African culture and anthropology and computer
predictions of Ebola spread- to how we can prepare better for future
outbreaks. The roundtable will be
live-streamed at www.ii.umich.edu.
Questions or comments can be sent in real time to the Twitter feed
#BeyondEbola. Your engagement is invited and welcomed.
The take home
message
Presence
of Ebola virus infection in the USA and Spain, in addition to the ongoing
crises for people in the epicenter, reminds us of the interconnected world of
2014. We must remain mindful and responsible “global citizens.”
No
person or country is an island or a fortress unto themselves. We are in and
must effectively move to halt the 2014 Ebola infectious disease epidemic, as
with many other ongoing crises - together.
*The
Rev. Dr. A. 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 4th 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.
12. THE TRUTH IS
THE LIGHT:
*The
Rev. Dr. Charles R. Watkins, Jr.
Based
on Biblical Text: Psalm 33:12:"Blessed is the nation whose God is the
LORD; and the people whom he hath chosen for his own inheritance."
I
had the pleasure of attending a “Get out to vote rally” on the campus of Allen
University. We heard from leaders of the Democratic Party informing us of our
choices and reminding us of our rights and responsibilities. Finally the state
president introduced United States Representative the Honorable James Clyburn
(a member of Morris Brown AME Church in Charleston) and the crowd exploded.
What a blessing he is! What service he has rendered.
Representative
Clyburn spelled out the successes we have made, highlighting the leaders who
have fought to continue our fight. He also clearly pointed out what we have
endured statewide and nationally at the hands of political adversaries whose
agendas seem intent to thwart any positive movement, moral improvement or
ethical advancement for what appears to be no more reason than they don’t care
for our President.
I
am sure some view all that has transpired over the past six years as party
politics and merely "business as usual," however, we who understand
God’s admonition to “love our neighbors as ourselves" are aware that God
cannot be pleased with how we have separated ourselves along any line that
lifts any category of people over another. God cannot be pleased with any
attempt to deny any of God's people of the basic opportunities and advantages enjoyed
by those who are more influential. God is concerned that all are treated fairly
and that favor and advantage be equitably divided among all races and classes
regardless of financial status.
It
is my prayer that God continues to bless us as a nation. I hope God will look
down on us with favor, and that He will find some good in us. I want the Lord
to bless us with His divine protection. However, I am so vividly aware that our
God of mercy and justice must not be pleased with the shameful manner that those
who represent the people in Washington are conducting themselves. In fact God
cannot approve of their actions any more than He approves of our sins.
And
yet, thanks be to God almighty, he has not yet removed His hand of divine
protection from us altogether. I believe that is in part due to the fact that
there is still some good permeating our society. Thankfully we find God’s laws
still make up the foundational principles of our land. We can still find
evidence of God’s loving influence in our charitable giving and our compassion.
And hallelujah the Sabbath is still sacred.
Christians
we are called to return America to God. We must lead the way in the march
steering America to repentance. We must galvanize the movement by uniting our
churches and strengthening our faith commitment that seems to be dwindling
every year. It is up to us to restore our nation to the point where once again
it is “in God we trust.”
When
David penned the words in our text, it is obvious he knew something about God.
David knew that God was his protector and his provider and that He who would
deliver him from the hands of an angry King Saul. David knew that God was with
him in his fight against his enemies. But David also knew that this protection
and this provision would come at a price. The price would be that the nation he
governed must have God as its Lord.
Under
David’s administration we find that a new religious era began, and a service of
praise was introduced into public worship. David ruled Israel at a time of
great promise and with God’s help he had been able to reunite Judah and the
Northern Kingdom as one.
David
prayed that his people would wait in hope, asking that God’s unfailing love
would rest upon them. David also prayed that the people would rejoice in the Lord
whom they trusted. And, by faith, he understood that if they would accomplish
these things the Lord would complete His plan of salvation. David knew that
then he could count on the Lord to protect and provide for Israel. And when
David asked the Lord for His blessing, his Lord never said no.
In
spite of all that is happening to dispute it, the fact is that we are still
able to be a “blessed nation whose God is the Lord.” If our elected and
appointed leaders are men and women after God’s own heart, and who are
determined not to be negatively influenced by the immoral and unethical
minority, then this nation can still find favor with God.
When
we are led by humble leaders, with repentant spirits moving them to say
"yes" to the will and direction of God, we will find, like David, God
will never say "no," as He is true to His promise, "If His
people, who are called by His name, will humble themselves, and pray, and seek
His face, and turn from their wicked ways, then He will hear from heaven, and
forgive their sin, and will heal their land."
*The
Rev. Dr. Charles R. Watkins, Jr., is the pastor of Morris Brown AME Church in
Charleston, South Carolina
13. iCHURCH SCHOOL
LESSON BRIEF FOR SUNDAY, OCTOBER 19, 2014 – DEFIANT FAITHFULNESS - JOB 24:1,
9–12, 19–25:
*Bill
Dickens
Job
wanted God to vindicate him in the eyes of his friends. People ridiculed him
(30:1, 9) and ridicule can be hard "pill to swallow."
When
Elihu began to answer Job on behalf of God in Chapters 32 through 37, he
pointed out that Job had been wrongly-focused during much of his trial. In Job
33:12–22, Elihu explains that God instructs and chastens in various ways.
God
has His reasons for how He deals with us; and sometimes they are beyond our
understanding.
Job
was so certain of his innocence and of the injustice of his afflictions that
for a long time he was unable to see beyond his perceived injustice. He tried
to defend himself from the false conclusions of his friends and in so doing was
unable to see areas of needed growth in his life.
God
has reasons for allowing whatever happens—though we are often at a loss to
fathom God's wisdom and God's actions.
In
our trials and tests, James encourages us to ask God for wisdom (James 1:5). If
we do so in faith, God will surely give it. Whatever the trial or test, there
is always growth that can be achieved. God wants us to grow. Therefore, we must
undergo periodic "pruning" to stimulate that growth (John 15:2).
The
1958 movie “The Defiant Ones,” starring Sidney Poitier and Tony Curtis, tells
the story of two escaped prisoners, one white and one black, who were shackled
together and who needed to co-operate in order to survive. Despite their mutual loathing of each other,
they were forced to cooperate because they were chained together. At first
their cooperation was motivated by self-preservation, but gradually, they began
to respect and like each other. If two
convicts can ultimately cooperate, why can’t the wealthy and/or wicked
cooperate with the poor?
Sometimes
it seems as though the wicked people in the world get all the breaks and cannot
be stopped from doing terrible things. How can this picture be changed?
Job
24 complains that God supports the evil ones, but only for a while; however,
Job 5 and the psalmist affirm that, even so, God saves the needy and gives the
poor hope in the battles they are waging.
This
is the type of “defiant faith” Job communicates in our lesson. When your "back is up against the
wall" like Job, it requires some form of reaction. In Job’s case the reaction was positive, not
negative.
*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
14. MEDITATION
BASED ON ROMANS 8:28-39:
*The
Rev. Dr. Joseph A. Darby
I’m
writing this meditation after successfully resolving an unexpected
problem. I routinely plug in my portable
electronic devices at night so that they’ll be ready for use the next day, but
when I unplugged and turned on my cell phone this morning, I got a “low
battery” warning.
I
immediately “mentally rearranged” my day, so that I could visit my local Apple
Store and see if I’d have to replace the battery - which ain’t cheap - or
replace my phone months before I planned to do so when another idea came to
mind - to try using the cable that I keep in my vehicle instead of using my
regular charging cable.
I
retrieved that aforementioned cable, and when I plugged it in, the phone’s
battery immediately began to charge. I
avoided my “worst case scenario” - and probably saved some time, expense and
inconvenience - by doing something so simple that I almost overlooked trying it.
Remember
the successful resolution of my unexpected problem as you travel life’s
journey. Life in this world is filled
with challenges - some easily met and addressed and others that are
complicated, confusing, demanding of immediate attention and so dangerously
troubling that we struggle to address them and seek ways to immediately address
life’s “worst case scenarios.”
This
world’s trying and troubling challenges are unavoidable, but when we remember
that God is able to address life’s challenges in simple ways that we’d never
come up with on our own, we can face them with faith - knowing that when God
leads, guides and directs us, we’ll find simple solutions to complicated
situations with the assurance that, as the Apostle Paul said, all work together
for good for those who love the Lord.
Trust
in the Lord, even in your most trying times, and you’ll find the strength to
press on and discover simple but wonderfully blessed solutions that come from
the God who empowered those who wore the insurmountable chains of American
slavery to sing, “Whenever you pray let Him have His way, Jesus will fix it for
you.”
This
Meditation is also available as a Blog on the Beaufort District’s Website:
www.beaufortdistrict.org
On
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
15. CLERGY FAMILY
CONGRATULATORY ANNOUNCEMENT:
-- Congratulations
to Mr. Jerrell and Mrs. Valencya Thompson on the Birth of their Son, Justice
Elijah Thompson
Congratulations
to Mr. Jerrell and Mrs. Valencya Thompson on the birth of their blessed son,
Justice Elijah Thompson, born, October 3, 2014 in Atlanta, Georgia. Valencya is
a former 7th Episcopal District YPD Communications Secretary.
Justice is the grandson of Dr. Wilma Broughton former Big Mak and YWI
Chairperson, and former Columbia Conference DMC Commissioner; great grandson of
Mrs. Wilhelmenia Broughton, 7th Episcopal District WMS Treasurer; great
grandson of the late Rev. Dennis W. Broughton, Sr.; grandnephew of Ms. Yvette
Broughton and grandnephew of the Rev. Dennis W. Broughton, Jr., pastor, 7th
Episcopal District.
16. CLERGY FAMILY
CONGRATULATORY ANNOUNCEMENTS:
CLERGY FAMILY
BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
It
is with saddened hearts that the Sixth Episcopal District shares the news that
Mrs. Helen Davis, a faithful and dedicated Mother of Saint Paul AME Church on
Pryor Road in Atlanta passed away on Sunday, October 12, 2014. Sister Davis is
survived by her two sons: The Rev. Michael Davis, pastor of Saint Philip AME
Church in Culloden, Georgia and Greenville AME Church in Forsyth, Georgia and
her son, Brother Andrew Davis, Jr.
Please keep the Davis family in your prayers.
The
Homegoing Celebration for Mrs. Helen Davis will be held on Saturday, October
18, 2014 at 11:00 a.m.
St.
Paul African Methodist Episcopal Church
1540
Pryor Road, Southwest
Atlanta,
Georgia 30315
Telephone:
(404) 622-9711
Fax:
(404) 627-4188
The
Rev. Doctor Gregory V. Eason, Pastor
The Rev. Doctor Thomas Bess, Eulogist
Her
remains will be placed in state at 10:00 a.m. in the church on the morning of
the service.
Homecoming
Services Entrusted to:
Carl
M. Williams Funeral Home
492
Larken Street
Atlanta,
GA 30313
Telephone:
404-522-8454
Fax:
404-522-5751
Interment:
Greenwood
Cemetery
1173
Cascade Avenue SW
Atlanta,
GA 30311
Words
of Comfort and Encouragement can be sent to:
The
Rev. Michael Davis
524
North Hightower
Thomaston,
GA 30286
Telephone:
(706) 646-5647
Cell:
(706) 601-7006
Email:
revmmd@yahoo.com
17. CLERGY FAMILY
BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
The
Fourth Episcopal District is saddened to announce the passing of Mr. Larry
Venable, the brother of Ms. Mary Vaughn and brother-in-law of the Rev. Emmanuel
Vaughn, pastor, Grant Memorial AME Church.
Mr. Venable's funeral will be held on Saturday, October 18, 2014, at:
St.
Paul AME Church, 1825 E. 25th Street, Indianapolis, Indiana 46208
Visitation
is from 9-11 am and the service time is 11:00 a.m.
Stuart
Mortuary on 2163 N Illinois St, Indianapolis, IN will handle the arrangements.
Expressions
of condolence may be emailed to:
Mr.
Venable's wife, Donna Venable: shellbb1@aol.com
Ms.
Mary Vaughn: maryv24@sbcglobal.net
18. CLERGY FAMILY
BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
The
Passing of Former Connectional WMS Leader, Dr. Sallie Polk
We
regret to share news of the Dr. Sallie Polk who peacefully transitioned to the
next life on October 13, 2014. She
attended Industrial High School in Tuscaloosa, Alabama and graduated from Lane
College in Jackson in Tennessee where she pledged Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority
Inc. Dr. Sallie P. Polk completed her graduate and doctoral studies at Wayne
State University, Detroit, Michigan in the field of Education. Dr. Polk was
employed by the Detroit Public School Board 1960-2006 and held the position of
Teacher, Department Head, Assistant Principal and Principal in schools
throughout the city to include Denby, McKenzie, Southwestern, Cass, Murray
Wright High Schools and Drew Middle School. Dr. Polk was active member of
African Methodist Episcopal Church community where she served as First Lady for
40 years alongside her late husband, The Rev. Armistice R. Polk, and work with
various Missionary efforts on a Local, National, and International level.
Dr.
Polk is survived by her daughters, Valerie Polk Phillips and Cherise Polk
Simms, her son, Duane Polk; her grandchildren, Garrett Osumah, Kyle Polk,
Carmyn Polk, Ashlyn Polk, Ross Simms, III, Kendra Polk, Danesha Simms, and
Jordan Polk; and her great-grandchildren, Elizabeth Osumah, Garrett Osumah II,
Gavin Osumah, Windsor Polk and Grayson Osumah. She is survived by her brother,
Joseph Parrish (Tuscaloosa, AL) and her sisters-in-law Mary Daniels (Memphis,
TN) and Carrie Powe (Jackson, TN). She also leaves rejoicing, a host of nieces
and nephews.
The
Celebration of her life will be held at St. Paul A.M.E. Church, 2260 Hunt St.
in Detroit, MI. on Monday, October 20, 2014. The family will receive visitors
on Sunday, October 19, 2014 also at St. Paul A.M.E. Church from 5:00 pm - 8:00
p.m.
Dr.
Polk, a member of the Emily Vernon Women's Missionary Society of St. Paul
A.M.E. Church, Detroit, MI, served for more than 50 years in the Women's
Missionary Society and was installed as a Life Member during the 12th
Quadrennial Convention. Dr. Polk served under several District Supervisors and
Connectional Presidents in various capacities to include; two terms as Chair of
the Connectional Nominating Committee; 4th District Interim Supervisor; two
terms as 4th District President; and various Conference and Area offices to
include President, Vice President, Treasurer, Corresponding Secretary and local
Supervisor.
Dr.
Polk left her "Mark of Excellence" in the Civic, Social and Local
communities as a long term member of the National Association for the
Advancement of Colored People, the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, and a retired
educator/administrator with over 40 years of service. Dr. Polk was the widow of
the late Rev. Armistice R. Polk, the Mother of 3 daughters and 1 son, the
Grandmother of 8 grandchildren and 5 great-grandchildren.
Email
condolences may be sent to the family via: havenpolk@gmail.com,
Haven Polk.
19. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
"To
Be Absent from the Body Is to Be Present with the Lord” We are saddened by the
passing of Sister Lizzie Fitzgerald, the mother of the Rev. Lee Williamson,
pastor of White Cross AME Church in Efland N.C.
Arrangements are incomplete at this time. Please keep the Rev. Williamson,
his wife Carolyn and his family in your prayers.
Words
of comfort correspondence can be sent to:
The
Rev. Lee Williamson at:
1602
Sir Galahad Road
Greensboro,
NC 27405
Telephone
Contact information:
Home
Telephone: (336) 621-1463
Cell:
(336) 456-0550
20. CLERGY FAMILY
BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
We
regret to inform you of the passing of Sister Mattie Stafford, the spouse of
the late Reverend Stafford. She was an inspiration to the Alabama River Region
Conference and the 9th Episcopal District. She was a steadfast servant for the
Lord.
Celebration
of Life: Sister Mattie Stafford
Saturday,
October 18, 2014
2:00
p.m.
Saint
Paul AME Church
894
Prater Street
Sylacauga,
Alabama 35151
The
Reverend Ruby Heard-Bustamonte, Pastor/Eulogist
Visitation:
Friday,
October 17, 2014
12:00
p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Professional
Services Entrusted to:
Community
Funeral Home
15
North Hightower Avenue
Sylacauga,
Alabama 35150
(256)
245-5201
Interment:
Evergreen
Memorial Cemetery
Talladega
Highway
Sylacauga,
Alabama 35150
Words
of Comfort may be sent to:
The
Family of Sister Mattie Stafford
411
East 4th Street
Sylacauga,
Alabama 36150
21. CLERGY FAMILY
BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
From
the office of the Eighth Episcopal District
It
is with heartfelt sympathy that we inform you of the passing of Vincent
Edwards, the son of the Rev. Sherry Tillman, pastor of St. John African
Methodist Episcopal Church in Biloxi, Mississippi and the grandson of the Rev.
Artimise Clemons, pastor of Doughty Chapel African Methodist Episcopal Church
in Covington, Louisiana.
Visitation:
Saturday, October 18, 2014
2
P.M. - 4 p.m.
St.
John A.M.E. Church
551
Division Street
Biloxi,
Mississippi 39530
Funeral
Service: Saturday, October 18, 2014
4
p.m.
St.
John AME Church
551
Division Street
Biloxi,
Mississippi 39530
Repast:
Following
the Service
St.
John AME Church
551
Division Street
Biloxi,
Mississippi 39530
Professional
Services Entrusted To:
Marshalls
Funeral Home
825
Division St.
Biloxi,
MS 39530
Telephone:
(228) 432-2495
Condolences
and Expressions of Sympathy:
The
Reverend Sherry Tillman
313
A 42nd Street
Gulfport,
Mississippi 39507
Email:
Stillman7050@yahoo.com
22. BEREAVEMENT NOTICES
AND CONGRATULATORY ANNOUNCEMENTS PROVIDED BY:
Ora L. Easley, Administrator
AMEC Clergy Family Information Center
Web page: http://www.amecfic.org/
Telephone: (615) 837-9736 (H)
Telephone: (615) 833-6936 (O)
Cell: (615) 403-7751
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23. CONDOLENCES TO THE
BEREAVED FROM THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER:
The Chair of the Commission on Publications, the Right Reverend
T. Larry Kirkland; the Publisher, the Reverend Dr. Johnny Barbour and the
Editor of The Christian Recorder, the Reverend Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III offer
our condolences and prayers to those who have lost loved ones. We pray that the
peace of Christ will be with you during this time of your bereavement.
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