The Reverend Dr. Johnny
Barbour, Jr., Publisher
The Reverend Dr. Calvin H.
Sydnor III, the 20th Editor, The
Christian Recorder
1. TCR EDITORIAL – SIXTEEN
YEARS
INTO THE 21ST CENTURY AND MANY
ARE FUNCTIONING AS THEY DID IN THE 20TH CENTURY:
Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III
The 20th Editor of The
Christian Recorder
Time
flies! It seems like yesterday that I
was given permission to set up an AME Church email listserve so information
could be shared electronically.
It was
1999 at the CONVO being held in Philadelphia. I can still hear Bishop John
Adams say, “Okay, Chaplain go ahead and set up the list.” I got a piece of paper and about 20-30
persons wrote their email addresses. I didn’t realize history was being made
because if I had, I would have saved the list instead of throwing it away after
recording the names on my computer.
We lose a lot of important documents
because we don’t realize their historical and denominational importance.
At the CONVO, I had stood up and
cautioned those in attendance that the new millennium of the 21st
Century was fast approaching and that it was important that we, as a C(c)hurch,
needed to embrace technology and move along the “information highway” into the
21st Century, with the rest of the world community.
A group of us who had computers
and were connected to the Internet began to exchange and share information
about what was going on in the AME Church. We didn’t know it at the time,
and I had no idea, but that was the genesis of The Christian Recorder Online.
The AME Church technology pioneers
The AME Church had technology
pioneers prior to the Philadelphia CONVO.
We had AME technology pioneers
that included the late Rev. John Fisher who published A.M.E. Today. He was preaching to a reluctant crowd and I
was one of the reluctant ones. The Rev. John Fisher was ahead of his
time! He saw technological innovations the rest of us couldn’t see.
Other pioneers included the Rev.
Alton Paris, Eric and Stephanie Stradford, and a layman from the Baltimore area
whose name I cannot remember, and later the A.M.E. Herald published by
the Rev. Denise Rogers.
There were others whose names I
didn’t and don’t know, but wish I knew their names so I could list them.
The AME Church had visionaries and
even though we got off to a slow start, we got off to a start.
And, though we got off to a slow
start, a number of our pastors and laity became computer-savvy and some of our
churches got connected to the internet, but, collectively, we are behind the “eight-ball.”
Some of it is due to the digital divide, which is driven by the lack of
financial resources, but some of it is the result a refusal to embrace
technology.
Some people are stuck in the mud
with the attitude of “This is the way we have always done it.” Too many pastors and laity are mired in the
past. They refuse to embrace technology because they are comfortable living in
the past and are fearful or lazy about learning new and creative ways of doing
things.
I am going to say it again!
Annual Pastor’s Reports, Quarterly Conference
Reports, and reports to the General Secretary, instead of being electronically submitted are
still being submitted in paper format and some cases,
handwritten. This is absolutely ludicrous, preposterous, unbelievable,
ridiculous, and insane.
Almost 16 years into the 21st Century and we have pastors,
presiding elders and local church leaders functioning today as it was done in
the 20th Century. We can do better!
I said it back in January 2008
and I will say it again; the time has come for the bishops of the Church to
courageously exercise their Godly judgment in the areas of progress and
technology and to say to presiding elders and pastors, “Beginning now, all
reports will be submitted electronically. No more paper reports! No more
handwritten reports! All reports must be
submitted electronically! No exceptions!
No excuses! If you are unable to submit electronic reports, perhaps this
job is not for you.”
In this day and age every bishop,
all presiding elders, every pastor and every applicant for the ministry should
be technologically savvy.
Presiding elders need to be
courageous and say to pastors, “Beginning immediately, no more paper Quarterly
Conference reports; all Quarterly Conference reports will be submitted
electronically and I should receive the reports before the quarterly conference!”
Pastors should be courageous and
say to the presidents of their local church boards, “Beginning immediately, all
local church reports will be submitted electronically.” If the local church
leaders need training, training should be provided to them.
Technology is a way of life. Technology has changed the way we receive
news, do our banking, and is
used in education. Technology increases efficiencies in the church and saves
money.
I am still amazed that some
churches do not have messaging information on their telephones. I am surprised that some pastors do not use
their mobile telephones as their “office number.”
If a pastor has a smartphone with
the lowest data plan, he or she, in addition to making and receiving telephone
calls, could access the internet, send and receive emails and use apps. If they
cancelled their land-line telephone service, there would be no payment
increase.
I am amazed that there are
churches that are not connected to the internet. I am equally surprised that some episcopal
districts and connectional websites are not functional. Every presiding elder
district should have a website. I am amazed that some pastors are not connected
to the internet. We are now at the point where every church should have a computer
and be connected to the internet.
Bishops and presiding elders must
have a clear vision for the Church and the wherewithal to make executive
leadership decisions that will facilitate operational efficiencies and church
growth. If we are going to be an effective connectional church for this century
we must not operate with a laissez-faire style of leadership.
Some might argue that we have a
lot of small local churches that are financially constrained and pastors and
presiding elders who are not computer-savvy. Computers today are relatively
inexpensive. New computers at Wal-Mart and other big chain outlets are
relatively inexpensive.
Computer literacy is not rocket
science and I hate to hear people say, “I am too old to learn that computer stuff.”
If I were a betting man I would bet that there is at least one person in every
church that is computer savvy. If a church has teenagers, the church has
computer experts. It just takes time and a willingness to learn about
technology.
And, another thing
Let me say this again, electronic
transfer of funds is more efficient than checks and cash. I am going to
keep preaching this; the time has passed
for pastors to be standing around waiting for their pay checks each
Sunday or a presiding elder to be standing around waiting for his or her
quarterly conference check. Just go to the bank and set up the program for automatic payment of
salaries and even bills.
Local churches should arrange for
an electronic transfer of funds to pay their pastors, pay the presiding elder
assessments, and if local churches wanted to be more efficient, pay all of
their bills electronically. The electronic payment of bills is more efficient
and creates a more professional environment.
The time has come to use
technology to enhance ministry and to increase operational efficiencies.
Actually it is past time for the
AME Church to transition into the 21st Century. We are almost 16
years into this century and if not now, when?
Why am I saying this again?
I am
saying this again because we're
almost 16 years into the 21st Century and too many of us are
functioning as we did in the 20th Century.
Here are some examples
Here
is a broad sweep – too many churches have not embraced technology. Too many
clergy and laity refuse to embrace technology. Without technology a lot of
information and services cannot be accessed.
For
example, the AMEC General Secretary, Dr. Jeffery Cooper, operates an
informative AMEC Website and has implemented a number of underused initiatives
to include DropBox, which a lot of people refuse to use.
The
posting of documents on DropBox during General Board Meetings and even during
the General Conference would eliminate the use of paper. We wouldn’t have to
waste time passing out paper documents that persons could easily and quickly
access on their smartphones, tablets and laptops.
Dr.
Cooper’s office also created an AMEC App with a one-time cost of 99 cents.
If the AME Church has the constituent numbers we say we have, there
should be 500,000 purchases of the AMEC App; okay maybe not 500,000 but maybe
50,000.
Another
glaring example, the AMEC Publisher, Dr. Johnny Barbour, Jr. and his staff
created an electronic version of The Doctrine and Discipline of the African Methodist Episcopal Church
2012. There had been a wide outcry of
an electronic version and less than 800 have been sold. And, one excuse
repeatedly heard is that “a hardcopy version had been purchased and they didn’t
need a hardcopy and an electronic version.”
Duh! I have hardcopy and
electronic Bibles and there is no conflict, they actually compliment each
other. I hope that excuse will not be used when The 2016 Doctrine and Discipline is released.
Why do
some pastors insist on having a hardcopy slick, photo-filled annual conference
report when they could share the same information electronically, unless there
is another reason for their need to pass out paper reports? I know it’s the way
we used to share the local church ministry, but it’s not the most
cost-effective way to share information in the 21st Century.
I am
not sure why local churches are not using teleconferences, especially in urban
areas and for congregations where many of the members are senior citizens. Most
of the same business done in face-to-face (F2F) meetings could be done via teleconference.
I
don’t understand why Boards of Examiners are insisting on face-to-face
classroom instructions for applicants for ministry when an online platform
would be just as effective, take
less time and would insure accountability. Intensive weekends could be
scheduled that would allow the board and students to interact
face-to-face. Online classes have face
recognition tools to insure that persons who are supposed to do the work are doing the work.
Why do
pastors /presiding elders have to
travel across the episcopal district for meetings with the bishop that could be
done via teleconference?
The
use of technology takes some “getting used to” and it involves a change of
mindset. The use of technology can be uncomfortable and some leaders might feel
an erosion of power with the absence of physical bodies for meetings.
The
bottomline is that we are almost 16 years into the 21st Century and
it’s time we, especially those of us who are older, embrace the available
technology because it increases efficiencies and simply stated, it’s the world
we live in and our youth are comfortable with technology and all it has to
offer. Let the youth teach us!
2. READER RESPONSE TO
EDITORIAL AND OTHER ISSUES:
-- To the
Editor:
RE: TCR Editorial – Even in the Church,
Satisfaction or Dissatisfaction Impacts Stewardship
I also share some of your anguish when it comes to
paying my bills. Ever since entering the work world, the first line item in my
budget is "tithe/church offering." This is the advice that I also
give to young people when they begin working. It is not about the clergy, it is
all about the goodness of God blessing you to earn a paycheck.
Ms. Virginia Langford
3. NEWS
AROUND THE AME CHURCH:
-- The Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee and
Nashville Unites Support Charleston, South Carolina
4.
NATIONAL PRESS CLUB LUNCHEON WITH THE RIGHT REVEREND JOHN RICHARD BRYANT,
SENIOR BISHOP AME CHURCH:
*Mrs. Robin Porter
Smith is the Second Episcopal District Christian Education Director
On Wednesday,
August 12, 2015 during the noon hour, the Right Reverend John Richard Bryant,
Senior Bishop of the AME Church and Presiding Prelate of the Fourth Episcopal
District of the AME Church processed into the luncheon room of the National
Press Club and was seated on the dais.
The Rev. Dr. Cecelia Williams Bryant – Senior Supervisor, The Right
Reverend William Phillips DeVeaux – Presiding Prelate of the Second Episcopal
District of the AME Church, Dr. PAM DeVeaux – Supervisor, John Hughes –
President of the National Press Club and National Press Club members C. Nasser
Ahmad, Robert McPherson, Shana Thomas, Bruce Johnson, Donna Ligey, Jeff Ballou,
George Thompson, Denise Rolark Barnes, and Noel St. John processed with Bishop
Bryant and were seated on the dais.
Bishop Bryant was
introduced and spoke on the shootings at Mother Emmanuel AME Church in
Charleston, South Carolina, gun control, and racism. He recounted the events of Wednesday, June
17, 2015 at Mother Emmanuel and noted the good and bad things, which happened. Bishop Bryant compared the “good stuff” to
Easter, which follows Good Friday. Some
Good Stuff – Joseph Riley, the Mayor of Charleston spent the night with the
persons gathered in front of Mother Emmanuel, Nikki Haley – the Governor of
South Carolina said the perpetrator will be brought to justice and it was time
to remove the confederate flag from the state capital, the AME Church received
global communication, which included monetary donations for Mother Emmanuel and
expressions spiritual and physical support, Church services in black
communities were integrated, and many persons from other races acted like black
lives mattered. Some Bad Stuff – the
nation’s love affair with the gun and racism.
Bishop Bryant cited examples of gun incidents such as violence in the
home, suicides, and persons shot mistakenly.
He noted legislative houses across the nation are developing laws, which
will legalize the carrying of a gun in public.
The Senior Bishop defined racism as the need to look down on someone or
to not see someone, to become invisible in a culture. Racism is a challenge to the church,
especially the black church. Bishop
Bryant noted the progress of African-Americans but expressed concern with
increasing numbers of poor African-Americans.
Racism is a challenge for some whites because of the inability to not
see or recognize the disparities in education and the application of law
between whites and blacks. Thus a
challenge for our white brothers and sisters of good will involves the ministry
of presence (action) on behalf of the marginalized and oppressed.
Questions from the
audience involved gun control, the AME Church and future role in civil rights,
leadership of the black lives matter movement, and steps to reduce racism. Bishop Bryant noted gun control will happen when
the people get enough of violence. Bishop Bryant reminded us to never confuse the
presence of the camera with the presence of our activity as many churches are
on the firing line without publication.
He cited the presence of the news media immediately following the
shooting at Mother Emmanuel and the focus of the media on the Republican
Presidential candidates. The Senior
Bishop cited the opening of schools and the invitation to other cultures to
experience African Methodism as examples of the church at work. Bishop Bryant expressed concern regarding the
large number of African-Americans suffering without jobs or underpaying jobs
and cited the expression of this frustration appears as a disorganized movement
but is the cry of the human soul. This group
is telling us we heard what you said about non-violence but it’s not
working. Therefore the church is
catching up to those feelings. Bishop
Bryant asked white brothers and sisters of good will to speak to racist
statements and black brothers and sisters to reaffirm self-worth within the community. Bishop Bryant announced a news conference
will be held on September 2, 2015 where an agenda will be presented, which will
help to unite the nation and ensure the nation appears humane to all of its
citizens.
Bishop Bryant
received a standing ovation from the diverse audience. Numerous AMEs, including the International
WMS President for the AME Church, Dr. Shirley Cason Reed, attended the
luncheon. The Church, especially the AME
Church, is moving on!
Persons wishing to
view Bishop Bryant’s speech and his responses to audience questions during the
National Press Club luncheon can be viewed at press.org. Robin Porter Smith is a candidate for
Executive Director of Christian Education for the AME Church.
*Mrs. Robin Porter Smith
is the Second
Episcopal District Christian Education Director
5.
INVITATION TO ATTEND THE 9TH EPISCOPAL DISTRICT UNITY DAY RALLY:
I am writing to extend a cordial invitation to you,
from the 9th Episcopal District, as we welcome The Honorable Robert J. Bentley,
the Governor of Alabama, to our Unity Day Rally on Tuesday, September 15, 2015,
at Noon at the Daniel Payne Community Plaza. Governor Bentley will receive the
Inaugural Rosa L. Parks Profile of Courage Award. He will be honored for his
moral courage in taking a bold step in removing a divisive symbol of Alabama’s
history, the Confederate flag. The theme of the rally is “One Nation Under God:
Lord, Let It Be.”
The rally will feature Bishop John R. Bryant, Senior
Bishop of the African Methodist Episcopal Church, ecumenical leaders throughout
the state of Alabama, elected representatives, and university officials. We
expect no less than 2,000 AMEs from across the state of Alabama to be in
attendance.
It would be my honor to have you share this
momentous occasion with us, to bear witness to this historic event in African
Methodism. We have an opportunity to articulate the mission of the AME Church
directly to the Governor of our state. In doing so, we make our voices heard
and solidify our relationship with the highest office in Alabama for our
present concerns and for future generations.
What we do in Alabama could have an impact on the
mission of the AME Church nationally and internationally. This is especially important
as the country prepares for a 2016 Presidential Election. God has positioned
our church to take the lead in making our state, country and world a better
place. Now is the time to seize the blessing.
Further, you are invited to remain for the official
opening of the 6th Session of the Northwest Alabama Annual Conference at 4:00
p.m., and the Women’s Missionary Society Night in White Candlelight Service at
6:30 p.m.
Let us join together with so many others who are
ready to stand with the AME Church in unity to make a difference. There is much
work to do. The Unity Day Rally is the first step.
Please contact Ms. Janet Benjamin at (205)
326-4499, in my office to confirm your attendance. I look forward to greeting
you in Birmingham on Tuesday, September 15, 2015, at Noon at the Daniel Payne
Community Plaza.
Bishop James L. Davis, Servant Bishop is the
presiding Prelate of the 9th Episcopal District
6. REPORT
FROM THE 34TH BIENNIAL SESSION OF THE CONNECTIONAL LAY ORGANIZATION:
By John Thomas III
The 34th Biennial Session of the Connectional Lay
Organization (CLO) of the African Methodist Episcopal Church was held from
August 2-6, 2015 in Charleston, South Carolina. Over 1200 delegates, alternates and
observers gathered to participate in business and Christian fellowship under
the leadership of CLO President Dr. Willie C. Glover, Jr., CLO Director of Lay
Activities Edith B. Cartledge and General Board Lay Commission Chairperson
Bishop William P. DeVeaux, Sr. The 7th
Episcopal District hosted the meeting under the guidance of Bishop Richard F.
Norris, Sr., Episcopal District Lay President Roger Cleckley and Episcopal
District Director of Lay Activities Gloria McClam.
Organized activities for the Biennial began on
August 2 with several cultural and historical excursions around Charleston
available for early arriving delegates.
The Executive Board met to deal with last minute convention
business. In the evening, the 7th Episcopal
District grandly hosted a “Taste of Charleston” with lively local music and
sumptuous cuisine welcoming the Connectional church to the “low country.”
The Biennial began in earnest on August 3rd with
the First Business Session. After being
called to order, special recognition was given to the family of Charleston
shooting victim Walter Scott and a moving tribute was paid to the nine martyrs
of Mother Emanuel led by 5th District Lay President Simeon Rhoden. Connectional Social Action Director Jackie
Dupont-Walker presented comprehensive resolution outlying actions that the Connectional
Lay Organization and the entire AME Church should be seized in the wake of the
Emanuel Nine tragedy and the ongoing investigation into the death of Sandra
Bland. Foremost on the was an
invitation to the delegation to travel
to Washington, DC on September 2, 2015, to support the AME Church as it
launches the Get-Out-The-Vote (GOTV) program with bishops, pastors, laity and
other registered citizens in this country.
The Honorable James Clyburn, Assistant Minority Leader for the US House
of Representatives and member of Morris Brown AME Church in Charleston
presented warm greetings to those assembled.
The Biennial Keynote address was then presented by Charleston area
lawyer F. Renee Gathers. In the
afternoon, the Biennial endeavored to navigate through its agenda. Due to logistical concerns, several reports
were delayed and several Committees delayed in meeting. Nonetheless, the Biennial progressed as best
as able.
The Opening Worship and Communion Service occurred
in the evening. Greetings were extended
by Bishop Richard Norris who is convalescing from his successful kidney
transplant. In stately fashion, the 7th
Episcopal District Choir demonstrated the diversity of the AME musical heritage
in anthems, hymns, spirituals and contemporary songs. The sermon “We Need Only the Best When
Serving God” was delivered by Bishop William P. DeVeaux, Sr. from Acts 15:1, 3,
7, 9.
August 4th was dedicated towards training
activities coordinated by Mrs. Edith Cartledge.
The training was structured into general plenary sessions branching into
specific workshops in the afternoon. The
first plenary was “The Role of the Laity in Health Growing and Relevant
Churches lead by Bishop Reginald T. Jackson.
The second plenary was entitled “Worship in the Low County” and lead by
Presiding Elder Wayne Parrott, Rev. Randolph Miller, and Rev. Bill
Swinton. Also during the day, Retired
General Officer Dr. Jayme Coleman Williams addressed the assembly exhorting
them to seek fairer representation for women and laypersons in the Connectional
Church by: 1) supporting the election of a female Bishop in 2016 and 2)
endorsing the candidacy of layperson John Thomas III as Editor of The Christian
Recorder. Both these recommendations
were approved by the assembly with an additional endorsement for the reelection
of Judge Patricia Mayberry (5th) to the Judicial Council.
The evening activity was the “Jesse L. Burns Black
Tie Benefit”. Every two years, the Lay
Organization hosts an affair to raise funds for an AME institution of higher
education. The 2015 honoree was Edward Waters College of Jacksonville, Florida.
The Master and Mistress of Ceremonies for the affair were Michael Cousin, Jr.
(4th District) and Dr. Dorothy Henderson (12th). Throughout the program, entertainment was
provided by the Seabreeze Band and H&C Productions. President Nathaniel
Glover received the $50,000 donation on behalf of the college and recounted the
progress made during his tenure.
August 5th started with an added business session
to get the progression of business back on track. A significant outcome was the
raising of the Lay Young Adult age to 35 and a bill submitted to the General
Conference to do the same for the Connectional Church. The Young Adult Hour of
Power coordinated by CLO YAR Dr. Felecia Commodore was a welcome spiritual
uplift in the middle of the day. The Rev. Derrick Scott of St. Paul AME—Irmo,
South Carolina delivered an insightful message on navigating through
temptation. In the afternoon, attention
turned to the General Conference Candidates Forum. Over thirty-five candidates aspiring to serve
the Connectional Church on the Judicial Council, as a General Officer, or in
the Episcopacy participated in a panel coordinated by the CLO V-Alert team.
In the evening, the capstone event was the Awards
Banquet with the address by the Rev. Cornel Williams Brooks, Esq.,
President/CEO of the NAACP. Throughout
the evening, members from the African delegation shared their vocal talents
with the Connectional church. The Biennial Scholarships were presented and the
recipients of the Outstanding Layperson Award were announced: Adult—Patricia
Mayberry (5th); Ted Harris Young Adult—Melinda Robinson (13th).
The final day of the biennial was packed with
Business as the assembly attempted to tie up all loose ends. At the times the debate was tense, but
overall the assembly retained its Christian character. While the Constitution and Bylaws and Budget
were completed, the complete General Conference 2016 legislative packet was not
reviewed and the balance of the legislation will be evaluated at the CLO Fall
Executive Board Meeting. The 3rd Episcopal District gave a welcoming
video for the 2017 Biennial which will be held in Columbus, Ohio—home of the
CLO President Willie C. Glover. As the
Biennial closed, Dr. Glover encouraged the body to cherish the memory and
participation in the organization as another time of fellowship is never
promised. Upon formally adjourning with
the Lay Benediction, the Biennial attendees shared a final fellowship
meal.
The author acknowledges with appreciation the
assistance of CLO Director of Public Relations Walter Jeffers and his staff in
the compilation of this report.
7.
ANNOUNCING A CONGREGATION-BASED CLINICAL PASTORAL EDUCATION PROGRAM:
A new parish-based Connectional Clinical Pastoral
Education Program has been created to provide an educational experience for
ministers and laypersons of all denominations to enhance their professional
pastoral skills and personal development but are unable to be in a traditional
CPE program due to time or other restrictions. It also enables probationary
ministers in the Christian Methodist Episcopal Church (CME) (In the future
willing to accept AME applicants) to meet the requirement of one unit of CPE
for full connection clergy membership. This unique program brings ministers
from across the country together and in small groups for interactive,
reflective learning using their own community and place of ministry as the
context.
The focus of this CPE program is on ministry in the
congregation. Participants must have an approved place of ministry in order to
complete the requirement of 35 hours of ministry per month for the nine months
of the program. The recommendation of a presiding bishop or supervising pastor
is required as well. In addition to the
ministry hours, attendance at two intensive weeks at your own expense is
required and an additional four hours per month of classroom time is required.
These sessions will be arranged to be held in a central location or via the
internet and/or conference call.
Participants must pay an application fee and the
required tuition for the course as well as be present at ALL sessions during
the months they are enrolled in CPE. There will be written assignments,
readings and some internet based assignments. The program operates under the
auspices of the National Institute for Human Development, Inc. (NIHD), a
faith-based organization that works in collaboration with the Fifth Episcopal
District of the CME Church. The faculty
will be comprised of certified CPE Supervisors and certified professional
chaplains.
Groups begin in the fall and spring. Intensive
weeks are in typically in late September and mid-January.
Applications are typically due 45 days before the
start of the program. Current tuition is $500 (subject to change), which
includes $50 application fee, $100 deposit once accepted into the program and a
balance of $350 payable before the program begins. There is currently no
scholarship program.
For more information, send an email.
TCR Editor's
Note: Bishop Snorton
says AMEs are welcome to participate in the program and if enough interest is
shown, she is willing to initiate other cohort groups. Certified CPE
Supervisors are encouraged to make contact with her.
8.
LIBERTY AND JUSTICE FOR ALL:
Please join in solidarity on Sunday, September 6th
as we worship worldwide recognizing:
“Confession, Repentance and Commitment to End Racism Sunday”
Racism will not end with the passage of legislation
alone; it will also require a change of heart and thinking. This is an effort
which the faith community must lead, and be the conscience of the nation. We
will call upon every church, temple, mosque and faith communion to make their
worship service on this Sunday a time to confess and repent for the sin and
evil of racism, this includes ignoring, tolerating and accepting racism and to
make a commitment to end racism by the example of our lives and actions.
What:
• Every faith leader is asked to preach about
racism and our responsibility as people of faith to end racism.
• Bishop Adam J. Richardson has prepared a powerful
and moving litany for this Sunday, which we will get out and widely distribute
soon.
• “The Male Investment Plan”, a toolkit developed
by Rev. Staccato Powell will be available as a guide. It is designed to
effectively position African American males ages 5-25 through a rigorous and
dedicated Saturday Academy mentoring program with tools to equip them
academically, while also teaching them civil responsibility and spiritual
enlightenment. The Male Investment Plan is a ready made tool to be implemented
in churches and organizations everywhere. The only requirement is committed
leadership of implementation through to successful effectiveness
• Send a report of your Sunday’s engagement to:
JDupontW@aol.com. (Photos and personal stories are encouraged.)
Historically, the Black church has been the
conscience of the nation; and we shrink not from that conscience stirring role
for the nation once again.
This is a joint effort spearheaded by the AME, AME
Zion, and CME Churches. Joining in
partnership are the United Methodist and UAME Churches, the National Council of
Churches (and representatives from communions which comprise the NCC), and the
Conference of National Black Churches.
Please be in prayer as we begin this effort, asking
God to guide and empower us for this effort.
If you have any questions please do not hesitate to
contact Bishop Reginald T. Jackson, chair – Social Action Commission or Sister
Jackie DuPont Walker, Connectional Director of Social Action.
You are invited to gather for:
Liberty
and Justice for All –
We are called for such a time as this, to stand
talk and speak about and confront the
evils of racism that are played out in every area of American life - in the
criminal justice system, economy, education,
and government. Mark your
calendar and plan to be present and accounted for!
Official
Headquarters Hotel:
Westin Washington City Center
1400 M Street NW
Washington, DC 20005
Telephone: (202)429-1700
Rate: $139.00 per night
Code: Black Methodist Coalition (Effective
Wednesday, August 19, 2015)
Tuesday,
September 1, 2015
Worship Services – 7:00 PM
John Wesley AME Zion Church
1515 14th Street, NW
Washington, DC 20009
Telephone: (202) 667-3824
Parking: Complimentary Valet
(Hosted by the AME Zion Churches)
Wednesday, September 2, 2015
Press Conference – 10:00 – 11:15 a.m.
National Press Club
529 14th Street, NW
Washington, DC 20045
Telephone: (202) 662-7500
- Hosted by the AME, AMEZ, and CME Churches. Supporters are the United Methodist and UAME
Churches, the National Council of Churches (and representatives from communions
which comprise the NCC), and the Conference of National Black Churches.
(Tentative) Forum & Briefing – Now To
Action! 1:00 – 3:00 PM
The White House – Eisenhower House Office Building
Washington, DC
Focus will be on the role of race in -
- Criminal
Justice Reform
- Education
- Economic Justice
- Gun Reform
- Voting Rights
“The Male Investment Plan”, a toolkit developed at
The Great Gathering will be discussed and distributed. It is designed to effectively position
African American males ages 5-25 through a rigorous and dedicated Saturday
Academy mentoring program with tools to equip them academically, while also
teaching them civil responsibility and spiritual enlightenment. “The Male
Investment Plan” is a ready made tool to be implemented in churches and
organizations everywhere. The only requirement is committed leadership of
implementation through to successful effectiveness
Sunday,
September 6, 2015
Worship to be celebrated in local congregations and
communities worldwide:
Special
Focus: “Confession, Repentance and Commitment to End
Racism Sunday”
Racism will not end with the passage of legislation
alone; it will also require a change of heart and thinking. This is an effort
which the faith community must lead, and be the conscience of the nation. We
will call upon every church, temple, mosque and faith communion to make their
worship service on this Sunday a time to confess and repent for the sin and
evil of racism, this includes ignoring, tolerating and accepting racism and to
make a commitment to end racism by the example of our lives and actions. Every faith
leader is asked to preach about racism and our responsibility as people of
faith to end racism.
Worship Tools will be available including:
• A powerful and moving litany by Bishop Adam J.
Richardson
• Toolkit Rollout – “The Male Investment Plan”
Please be in prayer as we begin this effort, asking
God to guide and empower us for such a time as this! If you have any questions, please do not
hesitate to contact either:
-- Jacquelyn “Jackie” Dupont-Walker: Telephone:
(213) 494-9493; email: jdupontw@aol.com or jdupontwalker@gmail.com
-- Aundreia Alexander: Telephone: (202) 481-6928;
email: aundreia.alexander@nationalcouncilofchurches.us
Let us know that you will participate with an
RSVP. Check all that apply:
__ Worship, September 1. 2015
__ Press Conference, September 2, 2015
__ White House Forum and Briefing (Participants
will be required to provide personal information for entry)
Social Action Commission - African Methodist
Episcopal Church, Chair – Bishop Reginald T. Jackson – Email: Reginald.Jackson132@verizon.net; email;
Telephone: (201)341-9865; SAC Officer - Jacquelyn Dupont-Walker: Email: JDupontW@aol.com;
Telephone: (213) 494-9493; Website: http://www.ame-sac.org/ or http://www.ame-church.com/
9. LOCAL
PITTSBURGH, PA ORGANIZATION AND BETHEL AME CHURCH TO TAKE A LEADERSHIP ROLE IN
BICENTENNIAL CELEBRATION:
A local Pittsburgh organization called Stop the
Violence-Pittsburgh addresses killings and serious violence among teens and
youth in the African-American communities and provide services to family
members of the victims of violence crime. The organization brings together
local groups and organizations to address these issues and provide a universal
platform to illustrate to the communities the high-supportive services that are
available inside Allegheny County
The Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania Bicentennial will be
celebrated in 2016 and the Mayor of Pittsburgh wants to incorporate the Stop
the Violence-Pittsburgh Community Awareness Day/Juneteenth Festival as part of
the historical framework for the 200th anniversary. In light of the request,
the Stop the Violence-Pittsburgh plan to host a Juneteenth: Martin Delany
Festival (June 17 - 19, 2016) highlighting the contributions of
African-American Abolitionist and Pioneers who helped found and establish the
City of Pittsburgh.
One Program will be a re-enactment of the
Pittsburgh "Jubilee of Freedom Parade.” The Original Parade was held on
April 26, 1870, by the Rev. Lewis Woodson and other Leaders of Bethel AME
Church. This event was the first parade ever held by free blacks and
abolitionist in the United States. The Parade was based on the Pennsylvania
Legislature ratifying the 13th, 14th & 15th Amendments to the U. S.
Constitution (particularly the Right to Vote).
In support of this effort Samuel W. Black, Director
of African-American Programs for the Heinz History Center is the re-enactment
historian and is helping with this process. Director Black is inviting Byron
and Granville Woodson, descendants of Lewis Woodson and Granville T. Woodson
who was part of the march in 1870, to partake in the ceremonies.
The Rev. Stephen Jackson, pastor of Bethel AME
Church in Pittsburgh is the lead for the National Congregations and has already
invited area pastors and congregations and the Third Episcopal District Bishop,
the Right Rev. McKinley Young for appearance and will be making a general
request for all National Church Congregations to attend.
The current programs for the Juneteenth Festival
will include:
- Black Tie Bicentennial Dinner on Friday June 17,
2016
- Re-Enactment of “Jubilee of Freedom Parade” on
Saturday June 18, 2016 (11 a.m. to 1 p.m.) and then Outdoors Community
Awareness Day Celebration (2 p.m. to 8 p.m.);
- A free tour of the Heinz History Exhibit “From
Slavery to Freedom” by Director Black on June 18th (free for Church Pastor and
First Lady ONLY, 5 p.m. to 6 p.m.); and
- Bicentennial First Church Service/Celebration (a
Celebration of Bethel AME, est. 1808) and outdoors Juneteenth Festival (2 p.m.
to 8 p.m.).
Based on the historical nature of the event, the
2016 Presidential election year and the parade's voting rights issue, the
National Offices of the NAACP, Urban League, 100 Black Men, National Council of
Negro Women, National Action Network, other Church Congregations, National
Fraternities and Sororities, Rainbow/Push Coalition, National Alliance of Black
School Teachers, National Black Caucus, Pa. Legislative Black Caucus, HBCUs
have been contacted. The White House has
also been contacted requesting the attendance of President and Michelle Obama.
This event will be covered by national and local media.
*William Marshall is the founder and CEO of a local
Pittsburgh organization called Stop the Violence-Pittsburg
10. GOING
TO THE CHAPEL:
*The Rev. Dr. Salethia Honors
Houston, Texas – Married couples at Brown Chapel
AME Church in Houston, Texas said, “I Do” again during a special renewal of
wedding vows ceremony that took place during morning worship. The wedding was complete with decorations,
flower girls, the wedding march and an after-service reception.
The June brides beamed as they came down the aisle
again carrying a bouquet of white flowers to meet their smiling grooms. Couples
who participated in the renewal of vows ceremony had been married from six all
the way to 40 years. The Reverend Dr. Salatheia Honors, pastor of Brown, and
her husband the Reverend Reginald Honors also participated in the renewal
service. They have been married for 25 years. Pastor Honors said the renewal
service was designed to celebrate marriage and to support couples in their
efforts to remain committed to their mates.
“We wanted to show visually that love isn’t dead
and the ideal of marriage isn’t old-fashion. We felt that it was important to
have the congregation and the friends and family of the couples to witness
their recommitment to the journey,” said Pastor Honors. “It was a beautiful
ceremony.”
A local
clergy couple performed the renewal vows and delivered a joint sermon to
encourage faithful commitment.
Pastor Honors and the Reverend Reginald Honors were
honored to have a young couple whom they married at another pastoral charge
participate in the service. A visiting couple to the service that day also
decided to take part in the renewal ceremony.
Brown members Shirley and David Hogan were one of
the couples who renewed their vows. They have been married for 28 years.
Shirley Hogan said the first time they wed was at the courthouse, so the
ceremony in the church was meaningful to them. Hogan said the ceremony reminded
her of the blessing that she has in her husband.
“As the years go on, through children and grandchildren
you learn to appreciate each other more and more. You learn to lean on each
other. I can see the goodness he does for me and others,” she said. “It (the
renewal service) meant so much to us. It was awesome to be able to come to God
house to renew those vows we took at the courthouse. It was so special to have
God’s blessing upon us.”
June was focus on the family month at Brown.
*The Rev. Dr. Salethia Honors is the pastor of
Brown Chapel AME Church in Houston, Texas
11. ST.
JUDE AME CHURCH, GERMANTOWN MARYLAND ACTIVE IN COMMUNITY OUTREACH:
*Sister Pamela Price
The St. Jude Community Development Corporation
(CDC), Inc. of the St. Jude AME Church in Germantown, Maryland is a 501(3) (c)
non-profit organization located in Germantown MD held its first annual 2
mile walk-a-thon for Positive Steps for Domestic Violence Prevention on May 23,
2015 at Clarksburg High School, Clarksburg, Maryland.
Bobby Ramos a retired police officer of 25 years
and current talk show host of the “Bottom Line Talk Show” in Connecticut was
the Walk-A-Thon event Marshal and Master of Ceremonies. We were blessed to have
the Rev. Mansfield “Kasey” Kaseman from Montgomery County Executive Interfaith
Community Liaison as our keynote speaker.
It was a blessing to all as we were able to present
the Wilkens Avenue Women’s shelter of Interfaith Works a check for $4,200.00.
St. Jude Community Development Corporation (CDC),
Inc. also has a Community Outreach program assisting Local Youth with Back to
School Supplies
The St. Jude Community Development Corporation
(CDC), Inc partnering with St. Jude AME Church Missionary Society and
Interfaith Works Distribution Center had a Back to School Backpacks drive, July
26, 2015 for needy children. With the support of donors we were able to
achieve over 906 different supplies which included back packs, notebooks, pen,
and pencils which helps many students have a great start to the 2015 school
year!
Our motto is “Bridging Resources for
our Communities, Step by Step.” The CDC believes with each step, it can
help the community using its resources. Creating a safe and trusting
organization where the community will know it can reach out for
help. Built on Biblical principles; Psalms 91:2: “I will say to the LORD,
'My refuge and my fortress, My God, in whom I trust!'” St. Jude CDC mission is
to build partnerships with local business and school districts to foster a
commitment to help the community.
Board of Directors: Linda J. Thompson, Chairperson;
Priscilla Moczo, Secretary; Elton Harrison, Treasurer; and Troy McWilliams,
Resident Agent
Board Members: Venattia Vann, Anna Gibson, Linda
Ogundipe, Pamela Price, and French Thompson.
*Sister Pamela Price is the St. Jude CDC Community
Outreach Events Coordinator
12. EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY IN CHARLESTON, SOUTH
CAROLINA:
Two
employment opportunities are available as (1) President/CEO and Community
Intern at the Coastal Community Foundation in Charleston, South Carolina.
Click on link below:
13. THE
THIRTEENTH EPISCOPAL DISTRICT 2015 SCHEDULE OF ANNUAL CONFERENCES:
Bishop Jeffrey Nathaniel Leath, Presiding Prelate
Dr. Susan Leath, Episcopal Supervisor
115th
Session East Tennessee Annual Conference
17-20
September 2015
Warren Chapel AME Church
501 N Market St
Chattanooga, TN 37405
423-267-4992
The Rev. Dr. Pedro K. Basden, Host Pastor
The Rev. Dr. Terence L. Mayes, Sr., Host Presiding
Elder
148th
Session Kentucky Annual Conference
135th
Session West Kentucky
(Concurrent Sessions)
24-27 September 2015
St. Paul AME Church
251 North Upper Street
Lexington, KY 40507
Telephone: (859) 255-7945
ALL
events except Sunday Closing:
Saint Luke United Methodist Church
2351 Alumni Drive - Lexington, KY
Annual
Conference Co-Hosts:
Saint Matthew AME Church, Midway
Shorter Chapel AME Church, Paris
The Rev. William R.T. Hale, Host Pastor
The Rev. James E. Smith, Host Presiding Elder
The Rev. Dr. William W. Easley, Jr., PE, the
Louisville-Paducah District
141st
Session West Tennessee Annual Conference
8-11
October 2015
St. Andrew AME Church
867 S. Parkway E
Memphis, TN 38106
Telephone: 901-948-3441
The Rev. Dr. Kenneth S. Robinson, Host Pastor
The Rev. Linda F. Thomas-Martin, Host Presiding
Elder
148th
Session Tennessee Annual Conference
22-25
October 2015
Greater Bethel AME Church
1300 South Street
Nashville, TN 37212
Telephone: (615)256-1509
The Rev. W. Antoni Sinkfield, Host Pastor
The Rev. Harold B. Love, Host Presiding Elder
THE 2015
PLANNING MEETING
29-30
October 2015
Hotel Preston
733 Briley Pkwy
Nashville, TN 37217
Telephone: (866) 986-8089
14.
REFLECTIONS ON SANDRA BLAND:
*The Rev. Dr. Anne Henning Byfield
On Monday, July 13th 2015, Sandra Bland, died in
another questionable death at the hands of the police. All of the questionable
deaths stun, dismay, and hurt; this one does so as well. When I was told that
it was felt that she was murdered, without knowing who it is was, I thought
domestic violence, drive-by, etc., I later had to process why these were my
first thoughts for a woman, (that exploration will be later). When told who she
was, the suggestion that she committed suicide was not an option.
The circumstances of her death are clearly unclear
for anyone’s imagination and certainly for her family, friends and church
members. Sandra was a person who loved life and was funny. The notion that she
would have responded in this way is an unacceptable response.
On June 28, 2015, I had the honor of preaching at
DuPage AME Church in Naperville, Illinois, under the direction of Dr. James
Miller, and Dr. Lana Parks Miller. When I got up to preach and acknowledge my
sorority sisters, for the first time I went through the listing of all African
American sororities and fraternities. When I announced Sigma Gamma Rho, she
stood and waved. At the altar call, Sandra came down and wanted prayer because she
was moving to Texas to take a job. She was excited but a little anxious about
the big move. Her prayer request was one of great expectation and anticipation
at the new job, possibilities, and location. She was concerned that her family
would not worry at her relocation so far away, yet was eager to embrace the
possibilities. She was alive, hopeful and joyful.
A few weeks later, we hear a familiar story for
African Americans that a routine traffic stop resulted in her suicide. This
time, the words are not, “I can’t breathe,” but “I can’t feel my arms!” “I
can’t hear!”
Within a few hours, she is found dead, the same way
so many African Americans have been found. Will the nation mourn with the Bland
family the same way we have with others? Will we post HER picture on Facebook
and tweet her name? Will we be passive about another African American female’s
life or will we demand actions, answers, and fight for justice?
Every death is a continual reminder of the
unexpected and how close we come to death. This one certainly is in that
category and does not stand-alone. Since
Sandra Bland’s death there have been several others including Sam Dubose who
was murdered on a routine traffic stop.
Bland’s death is a reminder that we cannot be silent or passive in our
response. Calling her name is needed but insufficient. There must be continued
and concentrated action. There is much
more we must do. While I don't have complete answers I have the resolve. The
tyranny of these actions and the loss of our young ones on the other spectrum
of violence must cease. So the question
again, do we individually and collectively have the resolve, energy, fight, spirituality,
activism, and the use of whatever power we have to respond.
The answer is yes, absolutely yes, YES. YES. YES.
YES. There must be the sound of the roar of angry lions preparing to fight at
the continuous loss of life of our cubs whether it is by the insidious assault
through questionable police action shootings or in house urban gun violence.
*The Rev. Dr. Anne Henning Byfield
15.
THE TRUTH IS THE LIGHT:
The Reverend Dr.
Charles R. Watkins, Jr.
Based on Biblical
Texts: Daniel 3:16-17: Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, answered and said to
the king, O Nebuchadnezzar, we are not careful to answer thee in this matter.
If it be so, our God whom we serve is able to deliver us from the burning fiery
furnace, and he will deliver us out of thine hand, O king.
Statistics indicate
that church membership is at an all time low. The truth of the matter is many
churches are struggling to keep the lights on and the doors open. Churches
desperate to draw folk have been tempted to resort to all sorts of intriguing
changes in preaching, teaching and worship in an attempt to remain relevant and
trying to be entertaining. Churches are stressed trying to have an exciting
worship experience.
This is not new as
Bible history tells us that throughout the centuries folk have been in a God
switching, God substituting pattern. Unfortunately this creates a problem as
the quest to be exciting has critically crippled folk’s faith in God. History
has revealed that in periods of prosperity and power folk have been faithful
however in periods of trouble folk seem to have been lost.
God switching, God
substituting is not a formally planned action. What I mean is, what the church
is about, what the church becomes, what the priorities in ministry are or what
the church should be doing is not always arrived at by vote or resolution. God
switching or God substituting is rather a growing trend of distrust in God and
what appears to be an ever growing reliance upon idols.
All through the Old
Testament, we see the Hebrews shifting from god to god. Even though the
patriarchs and prophets warned them, they still continued through the centuries
doing things their own way. But then after a time of transgressing we find that
they spend an equal amount of time repenting. In other words, we find that each
time folk realized that they had strayed away God we find them spiritually
limping back to God. They came back with a noticeable spiritual limp resulting
from their crippling encounters with idol gods.
Interestingly the
folk back then did not stop believing in God. We will find that God was just
buried under all the other stuff they allowed into their lives. They had
switched their worship, had substituted their affection and attention to idols.
The time and effort they once spent worshipping the God who had brought them
out of bondage was now spent on the worship of the idols that came with
prosperity.
I submit that if we
would take a look at how some of our churches view God and what is important in
the ministries of some of our churches we just might conclude that, just like
these folk in our text, the spirit of God is buried beneath beautiful family
life centers, towering edifices, and intricate organizational machinery.
Our text is the
story, of the King of Babylon who had captured the nation of Israel and
stationed troops to occupy his newly acquired territory. Among the captives
were three smart young men who seem to have been kept close to the king so the
king could keep an eye on them. The king wanted to use the boys to keep the
peace among the folk during the period of transition. To that end he gave the men
prestigious positions and appointed them over certain areas hoping that he
could keep their interest and possibly buy their loyalty.
What the king
didn’t understand was that although the Hebrew boys had the expertise to
accomplish the work, Babylonian culture did not fit into their faith. The king
could see the boys were not fitting into Babylonian society so as a result he
didn’t trust them. He was suspicious of them because he felt that though he had
authority the boys had power.
The truth of the matter
is everywhere you look authority is always at the mercy of power. It is true
even in the church. Think about it, the Pastor is assigned authority; however
it appears at times that the Pastor’s authority is at the mercy of the folk in
the church who think they have the power. It needs to be understood that power
used in an ungodly manner might seem to be over ruling authority for a while
however, by and by, whatever side God is on will eventually win.
In fact one of the
Hebrew boys told Nebuchadnezzar we are not going to follow your orders but we
are not afraid. “The God whom we serve is able to deliver us." In other
words you have the authority to do with us what you will but the God we serve
has the power.
When it came to their
survival the boys figured “We do not claim that He will deliver us, but we do
contend that He is able to deliver us. We have explored the possibility that He
may not choose to deliver us. We are willing to go to the furnace for our
faith, and we are prepared to test the validity of our faith in your furnace.”
In other words, king we want you to know that our faith has not waivered, our
faith is not negotiable. “King, if your furnace is ready, so are we."
This, of course
begs the question, who among us has that kind of faith? Are we prepared to die
for what we believe in? How many of us when we have a choice of keeping on
living high on the hog, would give up the money? How many of us would give up
the position and the comfort and go to the fiery furnace?
The faith that
Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego had says a lot about who they were and even
more about whose they were. It revealed the character of their faith. They did
not doubt the omnipotence of God. They did not doubt who God was or what He was
able to do. They were committed to God as the Creator and as sustainer of the
universe. They were committed to the notion, “not my will but God’s will be
done.” Their will was lost in God’s divine purpose.
The faith of these
three men would be a testimony to the power of the Living God. God's people
don’t have to bow down to unholy systems or give in to unholy rulers to live.
God’s people don’t have to give in to dishonesty or put up with lies. God’s
people don’t have to sell out to fit in or live like heathens to be happy.
God’s people are in the world but don’t have to be of the world. God’s people
can live in the world but don’t have to give in doing the ungodly things folk
in the world do.
The point I am
trying to make is simply, if God ain’t happy with it we ain’t happy with it! We
have to be prepared to take a bold stand against what we know is not right. We
have to be ready to sometimes even be defiant and stand up against what we know
God will not be pleased with. We have to be ready to stand up even when folk
talk about us or turn their backs on us. We have to be ready to stand up even
if it’s not safe or popular.
We need a faith
that stands up against the corrupt systems of our world. A faith that can
withstand the heat of rejection. We need a faith that is inspired by God's
righteousness and encouraged by God's voice. We need a faith that is sufficient
enough to assure us, genuine enough to enrich us and passionate enough to
strengthen us. We need a furnace kind of faith.
*The Reverend Dr.
Charles R. Watkins, Jr., is the pastor of Morris Brown AME Church in
Charleston, South Carolina
16.
GETTING TO ZERO: TIME TO PICK A FIGHT:
*The Rev. Oveta
Fuller. Ph.D
I heard an amazing
sermon this week, “Church, It’s Time to Pick a Fight” from 1 Sam 17:26. It was
delivered by the Rev. Douglas Banks at the Opening Hour of Power Worship
Service at our annual conference. The Michigan Annual Conference is occurring
at St. Paul AME Church in Detroit, Michigan where the Rev. Andre Spivey is the
pastor. It was a great way to kick off worship on a high note for the last
Michigan Annual Conference for Bishop John and Supervisor the Rev. Dr. Cecelia
Williams Bryant. The sermon spoke to the global engagement and “yes we can
spirit” of their leadership in the Fourth Episcopal District. The sermon
challenged assembled ministers and laypersons.
The Rev. Banks,
pastor of Mt. Zion AME Church in Battle
Creek, Michigan, explained how David, then a mere lad, the runt of his family,
ventured onto the battle scene while taking food to his brothers who were
soldiers with King Saul’s army. In the scene, a young David found the giant
Philistine, Goliath, taunting the army of Israel and was dismayed that no one
was doing anything about it. The challenge had been issued, but no Israelite
came forward to fight the giant.
David could not
believe it- that anyone would allow a big, even a nine-feet big, warrior man to
taunt the people of the true and living God. Insulting the God that David knew
did not sit well with the young man. Why was this allowed? In righteous
indignation, he asked, “who is this man and what was the reward that King Saul
was offering for anyone who killed Goliath.”
You know how the
story goes, or can read it in 1 Samuel 17. When David was given permission by
King Saul to face off with Goliath, he took no armor and only the five smooth
stones and a sling shot. The necessary requirement is that David had the
courage, wisdom and faith to say to Goliath, “You come to me with sword, spear
and javelin, but I come to you in the name of the Lord.” He was armed with the
ultimate weapon.
The Rev. Banks
explained David’s outrage as: (1) that someone, anyone- would defile the true
and living God, the God of Israel, and (2) that no one seemed able or willing
to do something about it. David had developed a strong up-close relationship
with that true and living God in the days and nights when he was all alone in
the fields and pastures with only the sheep and an occasional bear or lion for
company. David knew what this, his God,
could do, had done and would do again.
There was no need
to run or cower in fear. There was no need for heavy armor like that King Saul
offered him. Young David used what he had, what he was familiar with in a sling
shot and stones. David had probably shot a few rabbits with that sling shot and
stones and cooked them for his supper when out in the sheep fields. David tells King Saul that he was not afraid.
God was with him when a bear came against his father’s sheep for which he was
responsible. God was with him when a lion attacked. With the strength and power
that comes with obedience and an up-close relationship with the only wise
omnipotent, omnipresent God- our Father, David prevailed whenever he went
against the foe “in the name of the Lord”. So concerning the giant Philistine
warrior champion, the young Israelite knew that God was with him. If God is
with us, then who or what can be against us?
The Rev. Banks
titled the sermon “Church, It’s Time to Pick a Fight”. I don’t think that David
picked a fight or exactly went looking for a fight. But certainly he did not
cower and run away from a fight even with Goliath, the one who was indeed
picking a fight.
There are many
symbols in this story. Goliath was a giant man and David but a young ruddy lad.
This is a physical description of the two who met in battle. Pastor Banks
explained that every day we are in spiritual warfare- our enemies are not
merely objects in the flesh. Ephesians 6:12 explains, “For we wrestle not against
flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers
of the darkness of this age; against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the
heavenly places.”
It was a great
sermon, not just in emotion and stand up “Amens”, but in substance to apply to
daily life. The lesson applies in the health and wellness setting of “Getting
to Zero.” It applies to ending HIV/AIDS, controlling influenza and reducing
heart disease and cancer and diabetes and Alzheimers.
What am I saying?
The message resonates for individuals, congregations and the AME Church. As one
body of believers in the true and living God, we can help prevent so much
disease and disability. We can do so just by facing the Goliaths that taunt us
with over-eating, over-drinking, too much salt, not enough water, high fat and
cholesterol foods and the very real fear of confronting health issues.
Most people in the
USA can get vaccines that will protect against a multitude of infectious
diseases. Most people can get an HIV test, blood pressure tests, or the
appropriate Pap smear, a mammogram or prostate screening exam. Now most people
have some access to medical care that includes prevention screening. But, often
we are afraid of the results, don’t like the procedure, or don’t make them a
priority. Especially if something seems to be wrong, we are reluctant to get it
checked out. There is an understandable human nature fear that something might
really be wrong. Like the Israeli soldiers, we can be taunted by fear and
doubt.
Will we allow
diseases that could be prevented to taunt us and ultimately take out many of
our people? Or, will we respond to the challenge to become proactive and highly
engaged in our own health and wellness and that of our sisters and brothers in
and outside of the body of Christ?
Pastor Banks
invited those listening to remember the spirit of Richard Allen, Absalom Jones,
Sarah Allen and the first AMEs. They fought whatever was before them- racism,
disease, slavery, sexism, ignorance, legalized injustices. Who are these things
to come against us, the sons and daughters of the true and living God? Do they
know how big our omnipotent God is?
For the upcoming
2016 General Conference, I would love to see legislation proposed, passed and
widely adopted to require every church to provide some active type of health
ministry or an action plan/service for its members in a whatever way best meets
a need of that congregation or community. Further, a report on this ministry or
service would be required of the pastor and steward board on the Annual
Conference report form similar to reporting the number of marriages or
responding to the inquiry “Do you have an organized Lay in your congregation.”
People do not have
to lose limbs or eyesight, die too young, or spend an isolated or less than
full and active life because of many diseases (or violence) that can be
prevented. Many diseases that wreak havoc in the black community can be better
controlled by available vaccines, more balanced food intake, limiting fats and
sweets, consuming plenty of water and regular medical screening care.
As I move into a
new decade of my life and the physical body gets older (it does not so easily
follow the perspective still in my mind), I am more aware of the need to pay
attention to overall health- even the little things for care of me. I am
grateful for the message sent through Pastor Banks. I am empowered by this
timely Word to more effectively confront the giants that arise in my life
including challenges to maintaining mental, physical and spiritual wellness.
*The Rev. Oveta
Fuller Caldwell, Ph.D. is an Associate Professor of Microbiology and Immunology
at the University of Michigan (U-M) Medical School, Associate Director of the
U-M African Studies Center and an AMEC itinerant elder and former pastor. She
lived in Zambia for most of 2013 to study HIV/AIDS prevention among networks of
religious leaders.
17. iCHURCH
SCHOOL LESSON BRIEF FOR SUNDAY, AUGUST 23, 2015 - A DEMAND FOR JUSTICE - ZECHARIAH 7:8-14:
*Brother Bill
Dickens
Introduction
The Christian
community is coping with yet another incidence of injustice directed at houses
of worship. On Sunday, August 2, 2015
two church bombings occurred in Las Cruces, New Mexico. The first bomb explosion occurred at Calvary
Baptist Church and the second at Holy Cross Catholic Church. Both bombs were detonated outside the
sanctuary while parishioners were worshipping inside. Church bombings are acts of clear
injustice. In contrast, justice is an
inalienable right that all people should enjoy.
Justice is not a commodity to be allocated through the free market
system based on supply and demand.
Justice or the process of doing what is morally, ethically and
economically right for the betterment of the whole, defines the collective integrity
of society. Throughout the history of
civilization we find many instances where justice is denied to many
people. The denial of justice is a
stable predictor for societal unrest, civil disobedience and sadly civil
war. The AME Adult Church School Lesson
for August 23, 2015 examines the context of justice among post-exilic Jews
during the prophetic tenure of Zechariah.
Many of Zechariah’s contemporaries mistakenly believed to “do the right
thing” consisted of ceremonial fasts as a form of atonement for their neglect
in incorporating God’s law in their lives.
Zechariah provides a critical rejoinder to this form of spiritual
appeasement to the truth. Let’s see how
the prophet accomplishes this task.
Bible Lesson
Zechariah is a
contemporary of the prophet Haggai. His
ministry addresses the central concerns of a remnant of Jews who have left
Babylonian captivity and are commissioned to help rebuild the great Temple of
Jerusalem (destroyed by Babylonian conquest).
In Chapter 7:1-7 the prophet describes the demeanor of the post-exilic
Jews as desiring to keep the law of God by continuing in pious practices like
fasting. For these Jews they presumed
this was sufficient. Zechariah however
thought differently. The prophet of God
instructed them that true justice is defined in how you treat the widows, the
fatherless and the poor not ceremonial devotion to practices like fasting. By showing mercy and justice to the
economically disenfranchised the true meaning of Godly love is realized. Jesus ratified this concept of justice in his
great parable of the Final Judgment (St. Matthew 25: 31-46) where he commended
those who extended kindness and compassion to their fellow brethren and
chastised those who did not show justice and mercy. The people however rejected Zechariah’s
message. They turned a deaf ear and
yielded to a spirit of stubbornness and defiant behavior towards the
needy. Their callous actions however did
not go by unnoticed by God. The Lord
affirms to Zechariah that the stiff-necked resistance members refused to listen
when His message was being provided. The
people did not want to hear God (they covered their ears) so God in turn will
not listen to them when they seek Him for protection and blessings. Their selfish actions produced a set of
unintended consequences that they can only blame themselves.
Bible Application
I am participating
in the 124th Session of the Pacific Northwest Annual Conference as I
write this lesson summary. The Annual
Conference in the AME Church provides an opportunity for members to look back
on what we have accomplished and look forward to reaching higher goals in the
next conference year. Planning for the
future requires working together as a team (clergy and lay) and ensuring that
we will be directed by the common goal of Keeping God first and exhibiting
fairness and justice to all. Treating
everybody fairly fulfills the royal commandment of loving our neighbor
unconditionally. Fairness or justice is
a right so the absence of justice means we should demand not request this
important attribute. Zechariah did not
mince his words in critiquing the superficial display of justice exhibited by
some of his Jewish colleagues. If we believe
“all people matter” it is important we should not kowtow to a socio-theological
model that devalues the poor and make a mockery of God’s concept of
justice. QED
*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 JOHN 5:1-8:
*The Rev. Dr.
Joseph A. Darby
I recently chatted
with an old friend from my college years who expressed some strong opinions
about the “Black Lives Matter” movement - the organized youth-led response to
the many recent high profile cases of police mistreatment and murder of
African-Americans. My friend labeled
those involved in the movement as too loud and rowdy, too confrontational and
too likely to turn people off, and said that they ought to calm down, back off
and let older and cooler heads prevail, lead them and set the agenda.
I heard him out,
and I then kindly expressed my amazement and amusement at his opinion. I reminded him that forty years ago - before he
became a prosperous and successful businessman - he had the biggest Afro hairdo
on campus, always wore a dashiki and a black power fist on a chain around his
neck, had the Black Liberation Flag and pictures of Huey Newton, Angela Davis
and Stokely Carmichael hanging in his dorm room, and was a vocal participant in
every campus protest!
I’m glad to say
that my friend then laughed at the reminder and said, “I hear you and I guess I
ought to lighten up on those young folks - they’re really just doing what I did
back in the day.”
My friends
“amnesia” is understandable because if we’re honest about it, all of us have a
touch of the same spiritual condition.
It’s very easy - with the passage of time and the attainment of success
and well-being - for us to forget what we used to be and used to do, what we
used to think and how we used to act; to forget our old ways and old struggles
and to become judgmental paragons of pious virtue.
Maybe that’s why
when Jesus healed a man who hadn’t walked in thirty-eight years, He didn’t just
tell the man to get up and walk. He also
told him to take the soiled, ragged beggar’s mat that he’d laid on for
thirty-eight miserable years with him - possibly as a reminder of the days when
he was down and of who lifted him up.
When we take the
same advice from Jesus and remember how far God has brought us, then we’ll be
more appreciative of our present blessings; more patient with those who are
traveling the rough paths we’ve already walked and more willing to share our
story with those who need a little Good News.
Take the time, in
the midst of your best days, to remember how God brought you through your most
difficult days. You can then face life
with a new and joyfully appreciative attitude, help others to grow and flourish,
and live out the words of the hymn that says, “From sinking sand He lifted me,
with tender hand He lifted me; from shades of night to plains of light, oh
praise His Name, He lifted me!”
This Meditation is
also available as a Blog on the Beaufort District’s Website: www.beaufortdistrict.org
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. GENERAL OFFICER CONGRATULATORY ANNOUNCEMENT:
-- Announcing the Marriage of Yolanda Aisha Bruce, Esq.
daughter of Mrs. Gloria Sykes Bruce and the late Dr. Y. Benjamin Bruce, Sr.
My family and dear
friends join me in the excitement of much anticipation, preparation and the joy
of thanksgiving, to announce the wedding ceremony of Yolanda Aisha Bruce, Esq.
and Johnny Lewis Nash, Jr. on Friday, September 4, 2015 at the Wedding Chapel
of Winter Park, Fl and Wedding Reception to follow at the University Club of
Winter Park, FL.
Ms. Bruce serves as
Attorney/Adviser for the Social Security Administration and Mr. Nash is
Principal, Lindale Middle School, Anne Arundel County (Maryland) Public
Schools. The couple will reside in Owings Mills, MD. Yolanda is the only and
youngest daughter of Mrs. Gloria Sykes Bruce and the late Dr. Y. Benjamin
Bruce, Sr., who faithfully served the Connectional Church of Allen as Director,
Department of Worship and Evangelism, 1985-1992 and Presiding Elder,
"Nurturing" North Orlando District of the Central Conference of the
Eleventh Episcopal District, 2000-2006.
20.
CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
We are saddened by
the passing of Mrs. Ruth H. Johnson, mother of the Rev. Roxanne Parson, pastor
of Davis Memorial AME Church. The arrangements for Mrs. Ruth H. Johnson are
listed below. Please continue to keep
the family lifted up in prayer.
Celebration of Life
for Ruth H. Johnson, Mother of Rev. Roxanne Parson, Pastor Davis:
Memorial AME
Church, Baltimore, MD
Public Viewing –
Sunday, August 23, 2015
2:00 p.m. – 6:00
p.m.
Vaughn C. Greene
Funeral Home
5151 Baltimore
National Pike
Baltimore, MD 21229
Telephone: (410)
233-2400
Wake – Monday,
August 24, 2015
10:00 a.m. – 10:30
a.m.
Funeral – Monday,
August 24, 2015
10:30 a.m.
New Psalmist
Baptist Church
6020 Marian Drive
Baltimore, MD 21215
Telephone: (410)
945-3000
Interment –
Crownsville Veterans Cemetery
Acts of kindness
can be mailed to the Rev. Roxanne and the Rev. Andre Parson at:
2836 Deerfield
Drive
Ellicott City, MD
21043
21.
CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
Please keep the
Rev. Perneice Geter, pastor of Union Bethel AME Church in Denton Maryland in
your prayers on the sudden death of her sister, Doretha Gilliam. The Rev. Gilliam served at Bethel AME Church
in Baltimore, Maryland.
The funeral
arrangements are as follows:
August 29, 2015
Bethel A. M. E.
Church
1300 Druid Hill
Avenue
Baltimore, MD.
21217
9:30 a.m. -
Family hour
10:00 a.m. - Delta Service
10:30 a.m. -
Funeral Service
Contact:
The Rev. Pearl
Geter
2016 Brunt Street
Baltimore, MD 21217
22.
CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
We regret to inform
you of the passing of James Arthur Horton, the brother of the Reverend Charles
L. Horton of the West Tennessee Conference, 13th Episcopal
District. James A. Horton fought a good
fight. He is now at peace and rest with
no more pain.
Services for James
Arthur Horton are as follows:
Wake Services
Friday, August 21,
2015- 4:00 – 6:00 p.m.
Superior Funeral
Home
1129 N. Hollywood
Street
Memphis, TN 38108
901-323-7890
901-320-5783
Funeral Services
Saturday, August
22, 2015 - 12:00 Noon
Superior Funeral
Homes
Address: 1129 N.
Hollywood Street
Memphis, TN 38108
Telephone:
901-323-7890 (901) 320-5783
Expressions of
Sympathy may be sent to:
The Rev. Charles L.
Horton
8870 Chimney Rock
Blvd
Cordova, TN 38109
Telephone: (901)
752-0206
Fax number: (901)
752-0206
23. BEREAVEMENT NOTICES AND CONGRATULATORY
ANNOUNCEMENTS PROVIDED BY:
Ora L. Easley, Administrator
AMEC Clergy Family Information Center
Telephone: (615) 837-9736 (H)
Telephone: (615) 833-6936 (O)
Cell: (615) 403-7751
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/The-AME-Church-Clergy-Family-Information-Center/167202414220
24.
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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