2/12/2015

THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER ONLINE ENGLISH EDITION (02/12/2015)


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

--Richard Allen’s Birthday – February 14, 1760
-- Jarena Lee’s Birthday – February 11, 1783
-- February – Black History Month
-- Ash Wednesday- February 18, 2015
-- Easter Sunday: April 5, 2015


1. TCR EDITORIAL – LET’S ELIMINATE THIS “WOW” MOMENT NOW (PART 2):

Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III
The 20th Editor of The Christian Recorder

I did not intend for TCR Editorial, “Let’s Eliminate this ‘Wow’ Moment Now” to be a 2-Part editorial.

I have another “Wow” moment that I wanted to address, which involved pastors not participating in the AME Annuity Program and some U.S. pastors’ failure to participate in the Social Security Program.  Let me hold off on that editorial until next week.

The reason for making TCR Editorial, “Let’s Eliminate this ‘Wow’ Moment Now” a 2-Part editorial is precipitated by the number of emails received in response to that editorial. We have published a couple responses, but thought it best not to publish all of them because many of them were expressing the same thoughts and many of the writers wanted to remain anonymous.

Last week I addressed the issue of my disappointment of the low numbers of people who bought the electronic version of The Doctrine and Discipline of the African Methodist Episcopal Church - 2012 and that it was especially embarrassing after all of the brouhaha of people calling for the electronic version. Less than 500 copies seem so out of sync with the reported membership of 2.5 million constituents.  It would be terribly out of sync even if we only had a membership of only 100,000 AMEs. 

I also expressed the opinion that the purchase of electronic version of The Doctrine and Discipline of the African Methodist Episcopal Church is a “no-brainer” because of its ease of navigation by simply clicking on the link of any subject in the Table of Contents. 

I received a number of comments from, “I had already purchased the print edition, so I thought it better to wait and purchase the 2016 electronic version” to “I didn’t even know that an electronic version was available.” 

There were other comments expressing the thought that purchasing the print edition and the electronic versions didn’t make sense. Another comment expressed the notion that the AME Church should have one or the other, but not both the electronic and the print version.

There is precedence all over the world for the print media to have both hardcopy and electronic versions.  The secular news periodicals in the U.S. have both the print and the electronic versions. For instance, I read both the print and electronic versions of The New York Times, The Tennessean, The Army Times, Christianity Today and of course, The Christian Recorder, and other periodicals.

The media intent is for people to purchase both the print and the electronic versions. As soon as The New York Times, The Tennessean, The Army Times, Christianity Today and the other periodicals came out with an electronic version, I quickly subscribed to them. The secular print media is getting smarter by limiting access of non-subscribers to the online editions.

I have hardcopy and electronic Bibles. If I need to find something quickly, I go the electronic Bible on my computer or smartphone because it’s more efficient and quicker, which saves time.

When I want to make notations and mark special passages, I go to my hardcopy Bible.  Having both the hardcopy and the electronic Bibles has made my ministry more efficient and those of us who use both will testify that the electronic smartphone version is mighty efficient and easier to carry.

The Doctrine and Discipline of the African Methodist Episcopal Church - 2012 can be carried on that same smartphone and accessed on any computer.  

There is also the issue of fairness and responsibility.  For instance, in the case of The Christian Recorder, we have both the print edition and the online edition.  The online edition is free, but in the real sense it is not free because the subscribers of the print edition fund the electronic edition. The same is true with the secular newspapers, the subscribers and advertisers fund the electronic versions of The New York Times, The Tennessean, The Army Times, Christianity Today and, yes, The Christian Recorder and the other periodicals. Electronic versions of newspapers can be found all over the world.

The electronic version of The Doctrine and Discipline of the African Methodist Episcopal Church - 2012 is made possible by the people who purchased the hardcopy edition. Hopefully, in the future we will have a culture and mindset of people purchasing both the electronic and print editions of The Doctrine and Discipline of the African Methodist Episcopal Church, and when that happens the AME Church will be able to release both at the same time.

I hope that the next AMEC Publisher will have the resources to be able to release the 2016 electronic version of The Doctrine and Discipline of the African Methodist Episcopal Church. It’s not cost effective to make an electronic version of The Doctrine and Discipline of the African Methodist Episcopal Church if we only sell 500 or even a 1000.     

The intent was never that one replaced the other, but that people would purchase both.

Clergy and leaders in local churches need both the electronic and hardcopy issues of The Doctrine and Discipline of the African Methodist Episcopal Church. We are paying for convenience when we purchase the electronic version.  

The Doctrine and Discipline of the African Methodist Episcopal Church – 2012 is a test run for the future release of the electronic versions of The Doctrine and Discipline of the African Methodist Episcopal Church.

 We still have time to show that we will, as a denomination, embrace technology.

Most of us who use Global Positioning System often ask ourselves and each other, “What did we do before we had GPS?”
Hopefully, in the future we will ask ourselves and each other, “What did we do before we had the electronic version of The Doctrine and Discipline of the African Methodist Episcopal Church?

2. READER RESPONSE TO EDITORIAL AND OTHER ISSUES:

-- To the Editor:

RE:  TCR News Break - Update on South Carolina State.

This is a “creative way” to shut down a HBCU. Close it for two years and fire everybody is tantamount to, and a “back door way of, closing it for good. If you can live without it for two years, why reopen it?  

Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III
20th Editor of The Christian Recorder

TCR Editor’s Comment: I could not resist a Letter to the Editor

-- To the Editor:

RE: TCR News Break: Update on South Carolina State University

This is the beginning of the plan to get rid of HBCUs and get their buildings and property.  Remember HBCUs were the places where civil rights leaders had their finest moments and ideas. Perhaps the people who think they are in power want to ensure those citadels that developed Dr King, bishops, and astronaut and a plethora of artists, writers, scientists and business leaders will vanish.

Both you and I worked at HBCUS and my experience was that I encountered students for whom college was a first time experience for a member of their family.  There was a special nurturing and sometimes in your face teaching that I had to do to make sure my students were successful.  Many, many did not complete the program in four years taking an extra year or two.  Through no fault of their own but due to life experiences, poor public school preparation or family responsibilities these non traditional students needed understanding and compassion as well as tough love.  The state of South Carolina has indeed tremendous gall.  Do those persons voting against the school realize the millions of dollars of free labor their ancestors through that ungodly practice of slavery. That free labor means the black people of South Carolina are owed a big debt and a part of the payment of that debt should be the investment in the education at HBCUs.

Dr. Pam DeVeaux
Episcopal Supervisor, the 2nd Episcopal District

-- To the Editor:

RE: TCR Editorial – Let’s Eliminate This “Wow” Moment Now:

Thank you for reminding us to purchase the electronic version of the 2012 ... perhaps it's most important for Bishops and Presiding Elders to do so and maybe their clergy persons will follow.  I think it's necessary since I noticed that many have not changed the statistical report which states that we no longer have "probationers", but new members.  Who knew?

Name Withheld

-- To the Editor:

RE: TCR Editorial – Let’s Eliminate This “Wow” Moment Now

In response to your article about the low number of electronic versions of the Discipline that have been sold is a great example of the lack of concern by our clergies. We have Pastors do not believe it is necessary to keep their congregations informed of happenings in and around the church.

It frustrates me to no end to find out things about my AME church from an outsider. Why didn't my pastor tell us about this?

-- We have gotten away from printing bulletins. This was a great source of info.
-- Everyone doesn't have access to the Internet and that is where you put some news.
-- You have announcements read prior to service beginning. Persons who get there a little late or even on time miss the information that has been read.
-- Pastors allow others, like the administration or steward pro-tem to make the decisions as to what information should be disseminated to the congregation.

I would not have known about the electronic version of the Discipline if I didn't read my copy of TCR. I thank you for providing this information to us because the bishops, presiding elders and pastors have really dropped the ball when it comes to communications to the masses.

Thanks for listening to me complain, but this article just struck a nerve.

Name Withheld

-- To the Editor:

RE: TCR Editorial – Let’s Eliminate This “Wow” Moment Now

A paperless world is happening now and, as you say in the future we will probably be totally paperless.  However there are still many members that are uncomfortable with computers.  They have, along with some computer savvy folks, for what ever reason, and have invested in the hard copy of the Discipline.  I don't know the exact number, but thousands of the hard copies were sold.  In our Presiding Elder district, we sold many more than 500 hard copies. 

These are some of the reasons for the low amount of the electronic versions being purchased.  I think in the future more and more electronic versions will be sold.

Brother Woody Whittaker

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

The Council of Bishops
The African Methodist Episcopal Church

A Founder’s Day Message 2015

Bishop Richard Allen laid the foundation for an international church which has stood for almost two centuries.  We reflect on the man who rose from the shackles of slavery; the preacher who spread a liberating gospel; the pastor who sought to educate, comfort and encourage; the citizen who engaged in commerce and advocated for justice, and; the visionary who planted seeds knowing the harvest would be reaped by another generation.

Founder’s Day celebrations are not only occasions to pay homage to Richard Allen, but they are also opportunities to recharge and be inspired as we forge ahead ministering to the present age.  With an eye to the past let us be encouraged in this Founder’s Day season to:

Preach Christ

The message of Richard Allen was always:  Jesus Saves!  His conversion was the defining moment for his life.  Whether it was the walk out from Old St. George Church or the convening of the founding meeting of the African Methodist Episcopal Church in 1816, the issue was how to better present Christ.  Christ was the center of his life and the motivation for conduct and ministry.  We, too, must not lose sight of Christ in our zeal to serve.  Let us not be enticed by secular measures of success to the exclusion of hearts committed to Christ. 

Build Community

Bishop Allen was a community builder. Community must be practiced as a church, a locality, and in the broader national/international organization of people.  Our churches should be places of community where we disciple and edify lives.  While we may gather for formal worship just on Sunday, our churches must cultivate holy relationships all through the week.  These interactions make us accountable to one another through networks of care. 

Live with Compassion

Christians are known by their love.  Richard Allen challenged many in his day to see humanity in those whose godly image was made invisible because of race and class.  The call for justice came with the embrace of compassion.  So, in our time, we must be the God formed, compassionate community.  We should console “crying lambs” as we listen, and we ought to serve the wounded as we speak truth to oppressive powers.  Compassion drives our quest for justice.
Christ, Community and Compassion was The Allen way.  This is the genuine AME Way!  

Jeffrey N. Leath
128th Bishop, President of The Council of Bishops

A Collect in Memory of Bishop Richard Allen
14 February 1760 – 26 March 1831

We thank you, O God, for the life and ministry of Bishop Richard Allen, an apostle of freedom and a prophet in the midst of oppression.  Redeem, O Christ, those who seek You through the witness of his legacy.  Guide, Holy Spirit, as we resist evil and do good works in a new time troubled by an old adversary.  Gracious God, bless humankind, our family, as You strengthen those who minister to the weak and demand justice from the powerful.  Help us walk with humility and serve You with the dignity with which You have endowed us.  Bless the memory of Bishop Richard Allen in our hearts and through our service. Amen.

4. NEWS AROUND THE AME CHURCH:


-- The Rev. Dr. Robin Henderson, featured in the article, is an itinerant elder in the AME Church and serves in the 13th Episcopal District.


5. WEDNESDAY MORNING PRAYER LED BY THE BISHOPS AND EPISCOPAL SUPERVISORS OF THE AME CHURCH:

Ash Wednesday is on Wednesday, February 18, 2015

ASH Wednesday Morning Prayer will be led by the bishops and episcopal supervisors of the AME Church.

7:00 a.m. ET/6:00 a.m. CT/ 4:00 a.m. PT

Lenten Theme:  "Give Me this Water" - (John 4:15)

Psalm 42: 1-5 - Dr. Pam DeVeaux

1.  Prayer of Repentance for the sins of our Person, Families and Nations - Bishop A.J. Richardson

2. Prayer for the People of God to "thirst for” the Spirit of the Lord - Supervisor Phyliss Green


3.  Prayer for the Healing of the Waters in the earth realm - Bishop Vashti M. McKenzie

4.  Prayer for the Healing of the Sick – The Rev. Cecelia Williams Bryant

Scripture: John 4:10-15 - Supervisor Claytie Davis

4.  Prayer for the Pouring of the Spirit in Arid:

A.  Families:  Mother Theora Byrd
B.  Territories:  Bishop James Davis
C.  Ministries:  Bishop Richard Norris

5.  Prayer for "The Refreshing of the Lord" in the lives of the discouraged and depressed - Bishop Henry Belin

Scripture: Isaiah 11:10-16 - The Rev. Rowena White

6.  Prayer for the Lord to Lead the Church "Beside Still Waters" – The Rev. Rosalyn Kyle Brookins

7.  Prayer for "The River of Life" to Flow from the Churches throughout the nations - Senior Bishop John Bryant

Calling instructions:
Dial-in: (302) 202.1108
Conference code: 933622

Submitted by the Rev. Dr. Cecelia Williams Bryant, Senior Episcopal Supervisor

6. PREACHERS AND THE PUBLIC SQUARE:

*Dr. Dennis C. Dickerson

The two Archibald J. Careys -- father and son -- wielded power inside and outside the church for much of the 20th century. But the gains they made for the black community often were at the cost of their ministry, says historian Dennis C. Dickerson.

In 1928, Bishop Archibald J. Carey Sr., already a powerful leader in the African Methodist Episcopal Church and engaged in a political career, took his 20-year-old son to Washington, D.C. In particular, the elder Carey wanted his namesake to see the U. S. Capitol.

The trip to the Capitol with its soaring dome sent a clear message to the younger Carey: Church and politics do mix.

For most of the 20th century, Archibald J. Carey Sr. (1868-1931) and Archibald J. Carey Jr. (1908-1981) wielded influence, both in the AME Church and in politics. They held high positions in the church (the elder Carey was elected bishop in 1920) as well as appointive and elective offices on the municipal and federal levels.

Both men found power and success in both spheres. They parlayed their clerical positions into the public square and persuaded politicians to become allies in advancing black civil rights. In office, they worked to challenge and eliminate legalized racial segregation and discrimination.

Yet their success was mixed -- even tainted -- as these ambitious men compromised their pastoral authority through questionable alliances. Though their public ministries yielded tangible benefits for blacks in Chicago and nationwide, their political partnerships also showed the hazards of close clergy interaction with politicians.

The Careys’ story illustrates a dilemma familiar to pastors and church leaders of every age: How much do you engage in politics, and at what cost? Although pastors make political compromises all the time -- both inside and outside the church -- engaging in politics can pose particular dangers.

The Carey family had a history of blending the political and pastoral: Some of their ancestors in Georgia entered the ministry and endorsed the preacher/politician roles that many black clergy pursued during and after Reconstruction.

Archibald J. Carey Sr., a graduate of Atlanta University, adopted this paradigm during his career, as he served in pastorates in Georgia, Florida and Illinois. It was in Chicago that he achieved his greatest influence, serving as a tough political powerbroker as well as pastor of Quinn Chapel AME Church, the city’s oldest black church.

Carey’s interaction with President William McKinley while Carey served as a pastor in the South convinced him that these activities benefitted him and his parishioners. During the 1920s, after his election as bishop, he remained in the Republican Party and provided frontline support of Mayor William Hale Thompson of Chicago. The mayor rewarded him with an appointment to the civil service commission, where Carey enhanced the employment status of blacks and facilitated their promotion.

But the benefits were limited: Thompson, while supportive of Carey, did not champion black rights in other spheres. And Carey’s close involvement in city politics led Carey to politicize AME affairs in damaging ways. For example, he was accused of penalizing pastors who did not support his political alliances. Yet Carey thought this problem was bearable because of the advantages blacks obtained through his involvement.

When he died in 1931, his funeral drew a crowd that overflowed Quinn Chapel’s huge sanctuary. The religious and political leaders who testified to the bishop’s prominence in both arenas showed his broad influence.

The junior Carey admired his father and followed him into the ministry and politics. Trained at Garrett Biblical Institute and the Kent School of Law, Carey, a clergyman and attorney, developed Woodlawn AME Church into a socially conscious congregation and later maintained Quinn Chapel AME Church as a venue for leading civil rights activists to speak. He served as a Chicago alderman, ran for Congress and spoke at the 1952 GOP Convention. After retiring from the pastorate, he served more than a decade as a judge in the criminal, equity and civil courts in Cook County, Ill.

Carey, an early benefactor of the Congress of Racial Equality, as an alderman fought to outlaw discrimination in publicly funded housing. After running unsuccessfully for Congress in 1950 against an entrenched Democratic candidate, U.S. Rep. William L. Dawson, he was invited to address the Republican national convention in Chicago.

At the convention, he gave a hard-hitting call to Republicans to honor their historic advocacy of black civil rights. This speech introduced language that Martin Luther King Jr. later adopted in his “I Have a Dream” speech. Later, Dwight D. Eisenhower, who won the election, appointed Carey as an alternate delegate to the United Nations and then to the chairmanship of a presidential panel that fought bias in federal employment.

But, like his father, the younger Carey found that political success often came at the expense of his role as a pastor.

Though he was a confidante and strong financial supporter of King, Carey also had a connection to FBI Director J. Edgar Hoover. Evidence suggests that he failed to end FBI harassment against King. Moreover, some accused Carey of striking a deal with Mayor Richard J. Daley for a judgeship in Cook County in return for asking King to curtail his Chicago demonstrations on behalf of open housing.

The clerical careers of both Careys produced mixed results in regard to their public roles. Through politics they gained the power to work against employment discrimination and to make life better for two generations of African Americans. Their affiliations with Chicago mayors required compromises, but provided opportunities that aided African Americans. Nonetheless, the Careys were strongly ambitious men, who in spite of their altruism, sought recognition from their religious and public involvements.

Christian leaders today should recognize that political alliances can at times outweigh the benefits that their followers receive from these connections. Leaders contemplating political activities should ask themselves: How can I remain faithful to God while engaging in political activity for the benefit of the community I serve?

*Dr. Dennis C. Dickerson is a retired general officer of the African Methodist Episcopal Church and a tenured professor of History at Vanderbilt University

7. “WE DO MIND” AND VEHEMENTLY OPPOSE THE LYRICS BY R&B SINGER USHER RAYMOND AND RAP ICON JUICY J’S SONG, “I DON’T MIND”:

Irvine, CA (February 5, 2015) In a recent song composed by R&B singer Usher Raymond and Rap Icon Juicy J, “I Don’t Mind,” as a community, we have heard a disturbing message.  Free Speech is a U.S. Constitutional Right, but we reserve the same right of Free Speech to end this type of speech.  The iconic duo, voiced their beliefs that it is morally proper for a woman to dance on a pole to support her lifestyle.

Usher is perceived as a very nice young man, but young impressionable teenage girls might misinterpret the message.  This is an alarming message we must address from an ethical perspective with a resistant stance. 

Did you know the average age of a young girl forced into sex trafficking is 12-14 years?  Did you also know few young girls escape the harsh sting of sexual degradation? 

We must face this unsettling reality.  We must not leave our women subject to sexual customs of mainstream media nor our mothers and sisters subject to degrading insults from unprincipled men and women.  Our women are the divine essence of God—fearfully and wonderfully made.  The truth is we can serve as agents of change.  As men and women of valor, integrity and love, we have a voice to speak out against the objectification of women wherever we find it. 

In closing, Usher unashamedly says, “I Don’t Mind.”  With the same sense of fearlessness, we boldly say, “We Do Mind!”

We do mind a woman dancing on a pole for money.  We do mind a woman insulted by perversion.  WE DO MIND—therefore, we stand against Usher’s message.

We are asking all radio stations to stop playing this degrading song immediately. We are asking all record stores, department stores, big box retail stores, and internet companies to stop the selling the song immediately. Stop, stop, stop…..WE DO MIND!

The Rev. Mark E. Whitlock, Jr., Pastor of Christ Our Redeemer AME (COR) Church, Irvine, California

About COR Church
Christ Our Redeemer AME (COR) Church was founded by five people on the University of California, Irvine campus. COR Church is now the largest predominantly African-American church in Orange County with more than 2,900 multi-racial members.

8. A FAITH BASED ACTION – FIRST AME CHURCH, NORTH LAS VEGAS, NEVADA, GIVES TO FIGHT EBOLA CRISIS:

On Sunday, February 1, 2015, Bishop Clement W. Fugh was welcomed to First A.M.E. Church in North Las Vegas, Nevada as guest speaker for the morning worship service.

Bishop Fugh is the 131st consecrated Bishop of the AME Church and is currently serving as the Presiding Prelate of the 14th Episcopal District consisting of the West African countries of Liberia, Sierra Leone, Ghana, Nigeria, and Cote d ‘ Ivoire and Togo-Benin. The Ebola virus, a deadly disease, has struck other parts of the continent of Africa and the world but West Africa has been mostly severely impacted.  First AME Church in North Las Vegas, Nevada wanted to demonstrate their support for Bishop Fugh as he addresses the crisis and its impact in the 14th Episcopal District with their financial support and prayers.

Prior to Bishop Fugh bringing the morning message, the Rev. Dr. Ralph E. Williamson presented to Bishop Fugh a check from the congregants of First AME for $1400 to help fight the Ebola virus crisis currently impacting the West African countries that Bishop Fugh serves.
 
First AME, North Las Vegas, Nevada will continue to pray for Bishop Fugh and the 14th Episcopal District as they battle the Ebola virus epidemic with faith, prayer and compassion in the days ahead.

Submitted by Ms. Glenda Logan Osby, First AME North Las Vegas Nevada Member

9. BROTHER DEREK ANDERSON RECIPIENT OF THE 2015 COLOR ME EXCELLENT AWARD:

United Way of Central Ohio is pleased to announce the 2015 Color Me Excellent Awards. The Color Me Excellent Awards are designed to recognize African American leaders of Central Ohio for their community service and lift them up as role models for everyone, but most especially for young people of color who may not fully understand their potential for leadership. United Way of Central Ohio's Key Club launched the Color Me Excellent awards as part of its long history of community service throughout central Ohio.

The members of the 3rd District congratulate Mr. Derek H. Anderson for his outstanding leadership in Franklin County, Ohio.  Derek is a proud son of the West Virginia Annual Conference and currently resides in the Ohio Conference of the AME Church. He is the Immediate Past President of the Connectional Richard Allen Young Adult Council (RAYAC) of the AME Church.

Under the leadership of the Rev. Dr. Taylor Thompson, Derek is a member of St. Paul AME Church in Columbus, Ohio. His love for God and the AME Church is evident as an active member of the Lay Organization and in his role as an Ohio Conference Trustee.

He is the wonderful husband of Aimee and the loving father of Cory and Kennedy.           

Bishop McKinley Young is the Presiding Prelate of the 3rd Episcopal District and Dr. Dorothy J. Young is the Episcopal Supervisor

Submitted by Ms. Ametta Lorene Reaves, District Lay President, 3rd Episcopal District Lay Organization

** Reprinted from the Connectional Lay Organization Online

10. BETHEL AME CHURCH IN KANSAS CITY HOSTS FOUNDER’S DAY FOR KANSAS CITY AREA CHURCHES:

The atmosphere was set for worship as the Midwest Conference Youth Choir processed singing loud and proud, “How Great is Our God.” It was uphill from there as churches from the Midwest North and Midwest South Districts of the Midwest Annual Conference came together at Bethel A.M.E. Church in Kansas City, Mo., to celebrate Founder’s Day on Sunday, Feb. 8, 2015.
The congregation joined with Rev. Robert R. Shaw, host pastor for this joyous occasion, as he bellowed out the opening words of the Call to Worship. All agreed that we were indeed “glad when they said unto me; let us go into the house of the Lord…” All ministry components were present and we were ready for worship.

Just before leading the congregation in the Hymn of Praise, “Lift Every Voice and Sing,” Midwest Conference Lay President Melvin L. Jenkins gave a brief history of how the song came to be the Black National Anthem deepening our appreciation for the hymn even more.

Before the night was over, more history lessons would be offered as Rev. Stacy Evans, pastor of Allen Chapel in Kansas City, Kan., gave us a moment in Black History, highlighting where we’ve come from and what we still must endure today.

Following prayer by A.M.E. Ministerial Alliance representative Rev. Keith Cordier, scriptures by Terry Craddock Moore, representing the Midwest WMS and Dianne Freeman, president of the Midwest Conference Clergy Family Organization, the Midwest Conference Youth Choir, under the direction of Rev. Rochelle Settle, took us even higher in worship.

The Youth choir, in their selections, reminded those in attendance that “Jesus Is a Rock (In a Weary Land)” and “What a Mighty God We Serve.” Our hearts uplifted, we stood for the Founder’s Day Litany, written by Presiding Elder Anne Henning Byfield, led by Midwest Conference YPD President William Cordier.

As the Youth Choir exited the choir loft, the choir from Ebenezer A.M.E. Church in Kansas City took their place ready to render two selections before their pastor took the pulpit to preach. Ebenezer’s choir offered two prayers set to music. The first was “Pass Me Not, O Gentle Savior.” The second was a plea that simply said, “Lord, Help Me to Hold Out.”

Pastor Brenda J. Hayes, former Presiding Elder in the Missouri Annual Conference, described by Presiding Elder Donna F. Roberson of the Midwest North District as “an elegant, classy lady” and “a called, chosen, prepared preacher,” took her text from Acts 17:16-31 and preached from the theme: “Groping for God in a God-Forsaken World.”

Pastor Hayes reminded the congregation, in light of Paul’s criticism of those who would worship “an unknown god,” that “if we feel like we’re groping in the dark, we need to go back to where we first believed.”
Staying with the occasion of the day – Founder’s Day – Pastor Hayes reminded us that Richard Allen left a foundation, then chided, “What are we going to do with it?” 

Pastor Hayes concluded by stating that “If the world is a God-forsaken place, it’s because we have not made God real. We need to find God. He’s not far away.”

Following a sermon like that a traditional “call to discipleship” would have been out of order so the Rev. Rachel Williams-Glenn, representing the Midwest Conference Women In Ministry, offered an invitation “to grope…” Just like the preacher said, “We’ve been placed here so that we might grope for and find the Lord.”

Co-Host Presiding Elder Steven A. Cousin, of the Midwest South District, served as Worship Leader ushering the assembled into the presence of the Lord. No one was the same once the benediction was pronounced and the final Amen was sung.

- The Rev. V. Gordon Glenn III is the Public Relations Director for the Midwest Annual Conference of the Fifth Episcopal District

11. THE NAACP WORKING TOGETHER TO MAKE AFRICAN AMERICAN HISTORY—AMERICAN HISTORY:

Exactly 106 years ago, a courageous group of multiracial activists came together for a very special purpose: to eliminate social, educational, political, and economic inequality in America. They came together on this day to form the NAACP.

When they joined hands, they made African American history—American history.

And in over a century, our mission to secure justice and equality has never wavered.

Watch this video to see how the civil rights movement has endured through the generations:


Every February, we take time to celebrate the incredible contributions the black community has made to the history of our nation. We honor the struggles we've had to endure.

Then and now, progress comes when we join together to fight. Whether we're marching hand in hand, debating face to face, or calling millions to action online, the power of this movement lies within you, and every fellow American who fights for justice and equality, however they can.

Thank you for standing with us—and with each other—as we continue to push this country forward and ensure a more just and equal society for all.

Take a moment to watch this video—we're not just celebrating the founding of this organization, we're celebrating the work of generations of activists like you:


Onward,

Cornell William Brooks
President and CEO
NAACP

12. NAACP STATEMENT ON THE INDICTMENT OF NYPD OFFICER PETER LIANG:
 
BALTIMORE, Md. -- A Brooklyn grand jury has indicted NYPD officer Peter Liang, who allegedly fired his gun by accident, killing an unarmed man in the darkened stairwell of an East New York housing project last year. In light of this development, the NAACP has released the following statement.

From Cornell William Brooks, NAACP President and CEO:

“While the NAACP cannot celebrate any indictment, we commend the grand jury's careful deliberation and determination in holding Officer Liang accountable for the death of Akai Gurley. Our fight doesn’t end with an indictment. The NAACP will continue our work both locally and nationally to secure justice for Mr. Gurley.”

From Hazel Dukes, New York State Conference President and National Board Member:

“The grand jury’s decision to indict Officer Peter Liang is emblematic of the type of action we need to see in cases where unarmed, law-abiding citizens are gunned down for no reason. Officer Liang is now subject to the same due process afforded to anyone involved in the accidental death of another. The New York State Conference will be monitoring this case closely to ensure that justice is served.”

From L. Joy Williams, Brooklyn NAACP Branch President:

“The Brooklyn NAACP commends District Attorney Kenneth Thompson and his office for charging the officer responsible for the shooting of unarmed Akai Gurley, and we applaud the grand jury on their decision to indict. Brooklyn deserves police officers who are committed to serving and protecting all members of the community. This incident of police violence and so many others demonstrate that police reform is sorely needed. We are clear that while this indictment is a victory, it is also a first step in what will likely be a long judicial process and we are hopeful that true justice will ultimately prevail. Our hearts and thoughts continue to be with the Gurley family.

13. STATEMENT ON UPCOMING ADDRESS TO CONGRESS BY ISRAELI PRIME MINISTER NETANYAHU:

The National Council of Churches is troubled by the plans for Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to address the United States Congress next month.  We call upon House Speaker John Boehner to rescind his ill-advised invitation, or, in the absence of Mr. Boehner’s decision to do so, we urge Mr. Netanyahu to cancel his address.

We agree with the multitude of commentators who have noted that this is an extraordinary breach of protocol, and that it is unacceptable for a foreign leader to circumvent normal diplomatic channels, or be allowed by others in leadership to circumvent them, and thereby disrespect the Office of the President of the United States.  We support those who have decided not to attend, like Vice President (and President of the Senate) Joseph Biden and Representative John Lewis.

President Barack Obama has stated that it is the position of the United States to refrain from allowing access to US Government leaders to influence elections in other countries.  With Israeli elections next month, just two weeks after the proposed Congressional address, Mr. Boehner has disregarded this position, by offering Mr. Netanyahu a platform almost like no other in the final days of his campaign for reelection.  This is lamentable enough.  What is more egregious is the tacit support this gives to Mr. Netanyahu’s policies, including unbridled settlement building and expansion into Palestinian territory.  Whether stated or unstated, this amounts to support for policies that erode the chances for a genuine two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, which is the official position of the United States, and which is the only viable means to establish a just peace.  To support policies that militate against peace is thus morally indefensible.

At the same time, Mr. Boehner is giving Mr. Netanyahu a platform from which to directly contradict the position of the Administration with regard to negotiating a nuclear agreement with Iran.  While there may be different perspectives on this matter, Mr. Boehner’s invitation would seem to be a partisan move to further the position of critics of these negotiations.  Again, there are moral implications to this move.  The NCC has long advocated for engagement with the Iranian Government, especially with regard to the nuclear question, as engagement is the best means to achieve lasting peace and reconciliation.  To create a high-profile event using the presence of the Israeli Prime Minister to inveigh against these negotiations is therefore to take a stand against the prospects for peace.  Again, this is morally indefensible.

14. SEARCH ANNOUNCEMENT FOR INTERIM EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF THE KENTUCKY COUNCIL OF CHURCHES:

The Kentucky Council of Churches, an ecumenical ministry of 38 denominational groupings and other member bodies, is seeking an Interim Executive Director to advance the Council’s work of Christian unity, reconciliation, and witness for social justice. The Kentucky Council of Churches is an equal opportunity employer, seeking candidates with excellence in leadership, relationship building, and financial and organizational development. Work experience in judicatory settings is preferred. Interested applicants should submit a cover letter summarizing their ecumenical training and experience and briefly outlining their ecumenical vision. Please also include a resume, and, if ordained, a denominational profile or dossier. 

Application deadline is March 1, 2015.

Please send all materials to the Rev. J. Gregory Alexander, President of the Executive Board, 1125 Red Mile Road, Lexington, KY 40504. Confidential emails/electronic submissions (.PDF format) can be sent to greg@ccinky.net. 

For more information please see www.kycouncilofchurches.org.

Submitted by the Rev. Kenneth Golphin, the Kentucky Conference on the Executive Board of the Kentucky Council of Churches

15. THE TRUTH IS THE LIGHT:

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

Based on Biblical Text: Luke 6:24-26: "But woe unto you that are rich! For ye have received your consolation.  Woe unto you that are full! For ye shall hunger. Woe unto you that laugh now! For ye shall mourn and weep.  Woe unto you, when all men shall speak well of you! For so did their fathers to the false prophets."

Each of us has had a woe is me moment, a time when we feel sorry for ourselves. This writing is for the folk who feel sorry for themselves and blame everyone else for their failures. It is also for those who have been living with a false sense of security, because someday, they will be joining the blamers.

Woe is despair, misery, and wretchedness. By the time our writer Luke was born, the expression, “Woe is me” was a common household phrase. Luke was a physician and seems to have had a keen sense of man’s mental and physical makeup.  Luke apparently could recognize the woes in a man. He could put a finger on just what ails you. However, it is interesting to note that it wasn’t Luke who was acting as the physician. Rather it was Jesus. Luke in this instance serves as the translator or the “on-the-scene” journalist.  Luke, in our text, records some of the greatest causes of our woes as defined by the Great Physician Jesus Christ.

As a matter of fact Jesus gets all in our business as He spells out some of the pitfalls or woes that await those who are not paying attention on the journey.  We are warned that if any of the woes pointed out hits particularly close to home then, woe is you!

We are admonished about the pitfall of greed, Woe unto you that are rich! There is fundamentally no shame in being rich. The fact of the matter is there is nowhere in scripture where Jesus ever condemns wealth. To understand this warning we must first understand that the rich are those who have something to give back after meeting the true needs of their own families. Wealth is excess and Jesus warns that it is the excess that will get you.

Wealth actually creates a trap as the wealthy are usually those who are esteemed, held in high regard, honored and envied. Wealth brings position, power and recognition. It boosts the ego to the point we are fooled into thinking that we are self-sufficient and that we don’t need God. The rich feel independent and are lulled into a false sense that money can meet all of their needs. They seem to forget however that money cannot buy peace, joy, love or eternal life.

Wealth tends to make people selfish. Wealth attaches folk to the world, causing them to become tight fisted about their resources. Some folk who have acquired wealth find that they have an abundance of food, time, money, education, privileges and opportunities, but they won’t abundantly bless someone else. Jesus says “they have their reward.” Their reward is in their clinched fist. There will be no reward in the after-life. To those who fall into this category, woe is you because the joys of this life are all you will have.

Then Jesus warns us about the trap of worldliness, Woe unto you that are full! Jesus is talking here about the folk whose life is too full to make room for God. Woe unto the folk who are too full for God; too full to lift their hands in worship, too full to sing God’s praises or too full to pray at the altar. These, of course, are the exact opposite of those who hunger and thirst for righteousness. These are the folk busy indulging in every sin Satan dangles in front of them and are bursting at the seam with what the world has to offer. These folk have little or no time for God. Oh they might take time out for church but it is really all about the show. In fact these are usually the clock watchers who don’t want church to cramp their lifestyle.

The Apostle Paul says these are the folk  “filled with all unrighteousness, fornication, wickedness, covetousness, maliciousness; full of envy, murder, debate, deceit, malignity; whisperers, backbiters, haters of God, despiteful, proud, boasters, inventors of evil things, disobedient to parents, without understanding, covenant breakers, without natural affection, implacable, unmerciful: who knowing the judgment of God, that they which commit such things are worthy of death, not only do the same, but have pleasure in them that do them"(Romans 1:9-32).

To those who fall into this category, woe are you, Jesus says, “Ye shall hunger.” Hungry days are just around the corner.” Like the Prodigal son, you will find yourself filling your belly with the husks of the world.

Jesus warns against arrogance, Woe unto you that laugh now! The laughers are those who have no sense of sin, no sorrow or regret over evil and suffering, and no brokenness over the cross and their own sin. All of their joy is carnal and sensual. They are laughing it up in the world as all their joy comes from indulging and entertaining the flesh.

Those that laugh seem to pay little or no attention to the reality of the world. They exist it appears, uncaring in a world suffering under the weight of evil, greed, sin and certain death. Instead, they find their joy in denying and ignoring reality. They are not mission-minded because they are not their brother’s keeper. They might give a meager amount of time or money to help in order to ease their consciences, but you won’t find them rolling up their sleeves or making any great sacrifice for another. To those who fall into this category, woe are you, Jesus says, “Those that laugh now will mourn and weep later.”

Finally we are warned about the pitfalls surrounding fame, Woe unto you, when all men shall speak well of you! Worldly men want attention and esteem, position and place, honor and praise, recognition and applause. We honor such ambitions and rewards. And we speak well of those who attain them. But Jesus reminds us that they spoke well of the false prophets too, and frankly that was their reward! We are warned that the rewards for fame are fleeting. In other words, all the high fives, back slapping, and self-gratification may be appealing, but we are challenged to understand that all of that comes at the expense of heavenly recognition and honor later.

We are cautioned to serve the Lord, and do it in such a way that our right hand does not know what our left hand is up to, so that we can hear the Lord say one day, “Well done, thou good and faithful servant!”

The woes of our world are greed, worldliness, arrogance, and fame; and woe unto those who fall into their traps. That’s the bad news. The good news is that we can repent and let Jesus cleanse us of our woes. We don’t have to say, “Woe is me”.

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

16. GETTING TO ZERO:
*Dr. Oveta Fuller

The “Getting to Zero” column will be posted next week.

*Dr. Oveta Fuller is an Associate Professor of Microbiology and Immunology and Faculty of the African Studies Center at the University of Michigan and Adjunct Faculty at Payne Theological Seminary. An Itinerant Elder in the 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. 

17. iCHURCH SCHOOL LESSON BRIEF FOR SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 15, 2015 - HELPING THE NEEDY - ST. MATTHEW 25:31-46:

Since 2008, economic conditions in the USA have experienced the pendulum swings of recession and recovery. In fall 2008 our country was at the precipice of the greatest financial meltdown since the 1930s. Banks stopped lending, the housing market crashed, industrial production slowed dramatically, unemployment rapidly rose followed by a steep increase in national poverty rates. Nearly seven years later, despite political and economic naysayers, the US economy has survived the “Great Financial Recession.”

Economic growth has been restored, the banking system is more disciplined thus promoting consumer confidence and unemployment has fallen to its lowest level since 1998. It is incorrect to say the US economy is in a recession. While we are not in a recession that does not mean we have eliminated all social and economic problems for our citizens. We still have homelessness and hunger. Poverty remains stubbornly high fostering social ills like criminal malfeasance and the rising incidence of sickness. The Adult AME Church School lesson for February 15, 2015 offers a theologically plausible framework for how responsible Christians should respond to these social problems. Jesus uses the parable of the Great White Throne Judgment to shed insight on how we should act and the consequences of “inaction.”

In the parable Jesus states that his Second Coming will be highlighted with a verdict. Humanity will be organized and separated like a shepherd separating sheep from goats. Humanity on his right are commended for their compassionate and socially responsible behavior by ministering to those who were sick, homeless, hungry, lacking clothing and being physically incarcerated. Surprised about their favorable verdict the “sheep” responded they couldn’t recall ever seeing the King in such dire straits. The King responds that when they showed compassion and care to the least of his constituents they were actually providing service to him. Their selfless service culminates in a reward for the sheep - eternal life. Humanity on the King’s left is not as fortunate. Attempting to justify their inaction, the goats plead that if they had only seen the King in person they would’ve responded to his needs. The goats miss the point. By overlooking the needs of their needy neighbors they were in fact overlooking the needs of the King. The consequences of their indifference and inaction results in eternal damnation.

This parable is the foundation for what church ministry should be about in serving the needy. Food banks, clothing centers, temporary shelter and health check-ups and visitation to the sick and shut-in ought to be signature ministries across our congregations. Establishing a prison ministry is equally important. Many black men are over-represented in US prisons across the country. Seeking prison reform is important but failure to minister to our brothers while they are currently incarcerated represents a missed opportunity. Jesus indicated that the poor will always be in our midst. The harvest is truly plentiful but committed and dedicated workers to the cause of social uplift are in scarce supply. As a reminder, missed opportunities can result in outcomes not too dissimilar form the verdict of the goats.

*Brother Bill Dickens is currently the Church School Teacher at Allen AME Church in Tacoma, Washington.  He is currently a member of the Fellowship of Church Educators for the African Methodist Episcopal Church

18. MEDITATION BASED ON PSALM 27:

*The Rev. Dr. Joseph A. Darby

“1 The LORD is my light and my salvation-- whom shall I fear? The LORD is the stronghold of my life-- of whom shall I be afraid? 2 When evil men advance against me to devour my flesh, when my enemies and my foes attack me, they will stumble and fall. 3 Though an army besiege me, my heart will not fear; though war break out against me, even then will I be confident. 4 One thing I ask of the LORD, this is what I seek: that I may dwell in the house of the LORD all the days of my life, to gaze upon the beauty of the LORD and to seek him in his temple. 5 For in the day of trouble he will keep me safe in his dwelling; he will hide me in the shelter of his tabernacle and set me high upon a rock. 6 Then my head will be exalted above the enemies who surround me; at his tabernacle will I sacrifice with shouts of joy; I will sing and make music to the LORD. 7 Hear my voice when I call, O LORD; be merciful to me and answer me.8 My heart says of you, "Seek his face!" Your face, LORD, I will seek. 9 Do not hide your face from me, do not turn your servant away in anger; you have been my helper. Do not reject me or forsake me, O God my Savior. 10 Though my father and mother forsake me, the LORD will receive me. 11 Teach me your way, O LORD; lead me in a straight path because of my oppressors. 12 Do not turn me over to the desire of my foes, for false witnesses rise up against me, breathing out violence. 13 I am still confident of this: I will see the goodness of the LORD in the land of the living. 14 Wait for the LORD; be strong and take heart and wait for the LORD.”

This week’s meditation was inspired by a question that my youngest son posed to me this week.  He and the “lady in his life” had dinner at a very nice restaurant - a dinner so ample that he brought home leftovers.  He didn’t want to just pop them in the microwave oven and have them lose their texture and flavor, so he asked me for the right cooking time and temperature to heat them up in the stove’s oven.

That made me smile for two reasons.  The first is the realization that he had seldom, if ever, used the oven on a stove to simply heat up a meal.  The second is that I had to think about the right cooking time and temperature for a minute or two - and to remember that an old aluminum “pie pan” is a great implement for the needed purpose - because it’s also been a very long time since I heated up leftovers in a stove’s oven!

That’s probably because microwave ovens are sublimely efficient and convenient for heating up a single meal - you just put the food on a plate, set the timer for a minute or two and it comes out hot and ready to eat.  My son’s question reminded me, however, that while the end result may be hot, it may not be as tasty or authentic as when originally prepared.  Microwave ovens are fast, but some things taste best when they’re gently and gradually heated.

Remember that “heating” experience in a world that advocates swift results to achieve well-being.  Life in this world conditions us to pursue what we want by the easiest, fastest and least complicated means and provides ample avenues to achieve swift results.  Those swift results, however, often leave us with lingering doubts, overheated spirits and fears and concerns that what we’ve done might not be good enough and might only be temporary, tasteless and fleeting.

That’s why it’s good, even in a world that advocates instant results, to slow down, exhale and prayerfully seek and follow God’s way and God’s will for our lives.  Doing so might sometimes leave us feeling that we aren’t where we want to be and that our goals are elusive and take too much time to reach, but when we take the time to let God lead us, we’ll achieve the true well-being, peace of mind and savory victory that only comes when we realize that God’s way is the best way.

Take the time on each new day to let God lead you.  The results may not be swift, but the blessings will be joyfully enduring and satisfying, and will serve as a reminder of why those who endured the chains of American slavery said, “He may not come when you want Him, but He’s right on time.”

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. EPISCOPAL FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

This is to announce the passing of Mr. Robert J. Pender, brother-in-law of Bishop A. J. and Mrs. Connie S. Richardson. Brother Pender was the husband of the older sister of Supervisor Richardson, Mrs. Sarah Speights Pender. Mr. Pender died suddenly at their home in Marianna, FL on February 9. He was a lifelong member of St. James AME Church in Marianna.

Funeral will be held today, February 12 at 1:00 pm, CST:

St. James AME Church
2891 Orange Street
Marianna, FL 32448

The Rev. Ronald Mizer, Pastor
Bishop A. J. Richardson, Eulogist

Condolences may be sent to:

Mrs. Sarah E. Pender
C/o St. James AME Church

Bishop and Mrs. A. J. Richardson
101 East Union Street
Suite 301
Jacksonville, FL 32202


20 GENERAL OFFICER FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
 
We regret to inform you of the passing of William M Fry, Sr., father of the Rev. Dr. Teresa Fry Brown, Executive Director of Research and Scholarship, Historiographer African Methodist Episcopal Church. Mr. William M. Fry, Sr. died on Thursday, February 5, 2015 after an extended illness.
 
Services for William M Fry, Sr. will be held Saturday, February 14, 2015,
Viewing 10:00 a.m.
Funeral 11:30 a.m.
  
Taylor Chapel United Methodist Church
400 North Lamine Avenue
Sedalia, Missouri 65301
 
Condolences may be forwarded to:

Dr. Teresa Fry Brown (Executive Director of Research and Scholarship, Historiographer)
1080 Palmer Road Lithonia, GA 30058

 
Mrs. Richelle Fry Skinner (Fifth Episcopal District Director of DMC) 2040 Ogden Denver, Colorado 80205

21. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

-- Pioneer AME Church mega pastor, the Rev. Dr. George Moore (retired) “called home” to be with the LORD

The Rev. Dr. George Moore died yesterday, Sunday morning, February 8, 2015.  He was a “master pastor” and one of the pioneer mega pastors of the African Methodist Episcopal Church.  He was a skilled “people person,” yet he was a humble man with a humble spirit. He was unpretentious, yet his ministry was filled with spectacular results and awe. His ministry is one to be studied, modeled and emulated. When you met him, you knew you were meeting someone special. Truly, God blessed his ministry!


-- The Rev. Dr. George Moore obituary published in The Atlanta Journal-Constitution on Feb. 9, 2015

MOORE, George Rev. Dr. George Moore, former Senior Pastor (retired), known as the Master Pastor, of 42 years of Saint Philip African Methodist Episcopal Church, Atlanta, Georgia received his victory on February 8, 2015 at 4:22 AM. Pastor Moore was one of the largest contributors to the African Methodist Episcopal Church worldwide, so it was only fitting that he would transition on Founder's Day for the African Methodist Episcopal Church and because of his love of the Lord Jesus Christ, family, and the Kingdom of God that he is being buried on Valentines Day. The celebration of life will be held on Saturday, February 14, 2015 at 10:45 a.m. at Saint Philip African Methodist Episcopal Church. The wake will be held on Friday, February 13, 2015 from 6 p.m. - 8 p.m. at Saint Philip African Methodist Episcopal Church. A viewing will be on Friday, February 13, 2015 from 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. at Gregory B. Levett and Sons, Inc. 4347 Flat Shoals Parkway Decatur, GA 404-241-5656.

Read More / Send a Message:


22. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

We regret to inform you of the passing of Mrs. Laurissa Jones.  She was the sister of Dr. Robyn Moore-Cooper, Director of Masters of Rehabilitation Program at Wilberforce University and the sister-in-law of the Rev. Solomon Cooper, pastor of Quinn Chapel AMEC in Ironton, Ohio.

Funeral arrangements: 

Saturday, February 14, 2015 at 2:00 pm:

New Zion United Methodist Church
2169 South Montgomery St.
Starkville, Mississippi 39759

Condolences may be sent to:

Dr. Robyn-Moore Cooper: rmcoop808@aol.com 

And/or

The Rev. Solomon Cooper:
8860 Swinging Gate Drive
Huber Heights, OH 45424


23. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE

We regret to inform you that Mrs. Martha Dunlap Goodman, mother of the Rev. Christopher Goodman, died on February 10, 2015.  The Rev. Christopher Goodman is the pastor of Bethel AME Church, Warren, Arkansas.

Funeral services will be held at Pilgrim Rest AME Church, 522 North Bailey Street, Monticello, Arkansas on Saturday, 14, 2015 at 11:00 a.m.  Visitation: Friday, February 13, 2015 at Stephenson/Dearman Funeral Home, Monticello, Arkansas from 6 p.m. – 7 p.m.

Condolences may be sent to:

Rev. and Mrs. Christopher Goodman and Family
761 Florence Road
Monticello, AR  71655

Telephone: (870)367-3550

Arrangements have been entrusted to:

Stephenson/Dearman Funeral Home]
943 Highway 425
Monticello, AR  71655

24. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

The Sixth Episcopal District, African Methodist Episcopal Church regrets to inform you of passing of Dr. Robert M. Threatt, a former president of Morris Brown College.
 
Wake to be held:

Friday, February 6, 2015 from 5:00-8:00 p.m.
Flipper Temple AME Church
580 Fair Street SW
Atlanta, GA  30314

Telephone: (404) 522-5020
The Rev. Augusta Hall, Pastor
 
 
Homegoing Services will be held:

Saturday, February 7, 2015 at 11:00 a.m.
      
Saint Philip AME Church
240 Candler Road
Atlanta, GA 30317
404-371-0749
The Rev. William Watley, Ph.D, Pastor
 
Funeral Services Entrusted to:
Carl A. Williams Funeral Home
492 Larkin Street, Southwest 
Atlanta, Georgia 30313
 
404-522-8454 phone
404-522-5751 fax 
cmwfuneraldirectors@gmail.com - email
 
 
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Robert Threatt Scholarship Fund for Morris Brown College.
 
Condolences May Be Sent to:
 
Mrs. Helen Threatt
3077 Cherry Blossom Lane
East Point, GA 30344
(404) 344-6547
 
25. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICES:
 
The Sixth Episcopal District regrets as well, to inform you of the following three recent Homegoings. Services have been held.
 
They are:
 
1) The Reverend William Pope, retired SED pastor
 
2) The Reverend Wallace Jones
 
3) Mrs. Ruth Wicker, wife of deceased retired SED Presiding Elder S.W. Wicker

26. BEREAVEMENT NOTICES AND CONGRATULATORY ANNOUNCEMENTS PROVIDED BY:

Ora L. Easley, Administrator
AMEC Clergy Family Information Center
Email: Amespouses1@bellsouth.net      
Web page: http://www.amecfic.org/   
Telephone: (615) 837-9736 (H)
Telephone: (615) 833-6936 (O)
Cell: (615) 403-7751




27. CONDOLENCES TO THE BEREAVED FROM THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER:

The Chair of the Commission on Publications, the Right Reverend T. Larry Kirkland; the Publisher, the Reverend Dr. Johnny Barbour and the Editor of The Christian Recorder, the Reverend Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III offer our condolences and prayers to those who have lost loved ones. We pray that the peace of Christ will be with you during this time of your bereavement.

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