THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER Online: THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER ONLINE ENGLISH EDITION (06/30/16)

6/30/2016

THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER ONLINE ENGLISH EDITION (06/30/16)

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 20^th Editor, The Christian Recorder

The 50^th Quadrennial Session of the General Conference, July 6-13, 2016

1. TCR EDITORIAL – SURE PATHS FOR PASTORAL FAILURE:

Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III

The 20^th Editor of The Christian Recorder

My father-in-law, the Rev. Charles Edward Blake used to say, “There are some pastors who seem to have a blueprint for how to fail in ministry and messing up churches.” He went on to explain that sometimes pastors get assigned to a church and find themselves in a difficult situation. And if that pastor was reassigned and had a productive ministry the difficult pastoral experience could be blamed on “bad chemistry.” He noted that there were some pastors who experienced “bad chemistry” in every pastoral assignment; and those were the pastors he referred to as “pastors who seem to have a blueprint for pastoral failure and destroying churches.”

Over the years I have noticed some characteristics of failed ministry. The interesting thing that was amazing to me is that the characteristics for failing ministry were the same in the military chaplaincy as in the civilian ministry.

I also became aware that the characteristics for failing ministry crossed denominational and racial lines. It was humorous in a way because when I explained pastoral failures, my friends would say, “You must be talking about the CME Church…, United Methodist Church…, the Baptist Church!” And when they shared some of their experiences, I responded, “You must be talking about the AME Church!” The pastoral failure phenomenon is present in Pentecostal churches too!

Sure shots for pastoral failure:

Let people think you are “perfect” and give the impression that you have everything together and the answers for all questions. And especially feel like you are holier than everyone else, often referred to as a “Messianic complex.”

Stay busy and fail to take time for you! You don’t want parishioners to think you are lazy, so don’t bother with Sabbath rests. Don’t take time for you!

Keep your family and children involved in the life of the church and fail to take quality time for your family. After all you and your family have an image to project. Don’t worry about vacations, family and leisure time. Remind your children that they have to act a certain way, lest they bring criticism for the first family.

Feel good and brag about how you have not missed leading worship services and don’t worry about taking a break from your congregation. You and your family love them and they love you.

You are a busy pastor and don’t have time for a hobby or leisure time of not doing anything.

Be hard-headed and stubborn and project the notion that “it’s your way or highway.” And don’t be concerned or take the time to allow parishioners to buy-in or take ownership of the religious program because if they do, they will try to take over and run the program.

Keep your strategies for ministry close-hold, don’t share your ideas and strategies; be a “one man or one woman show!” You know how you want things to run.

Don’t trust your stewards and trustees to have meetings without your presence. Always remind them that you are the ex-officio of all local church organizations [literally, the boss of all organizations by virtue of your position as pastor]. Remind the people again and again that you are the pastor.

Don’t let people forget that you are the pastor! Remind them that the “buck stops with you!”

Don’t take time to meet with your musicians, just let them sing whatever they want to sing. You have other things to do and it’s too much trouble to meet with the musicians!

Always be present at meetings, and take over if you have to because your presence will influence people to do things and vote the way you want them to vote.

Don’t encourage an environment of openness and creativity because openness and creativity on the part of the people opens the door for conflict and their ideas might go against your thoughts about how you think things should function.

Don’t bother to learn new things because you are fully trained and you know all of the ins and outs of ministry. You know all of the “tricks of the trade” and besides, there is “nothing new under the sun.”

Don’t be concerned about taking courses offered at academic and theological institutions. "What they teach probably won’t be relevant because they don’t understand minorities, especially black people. They probably can’t teach you anything about pastoring an AME Church.

Don’t worry about widening your intellect because you don’t have time to learn new things, especially things that are not related to ministry.

Let all of your conversations be about church and the AME politics.

Watch the televangelist for the latest techniques on how to “manage the crowd.”

Don’t learn anything about technology because you don’t have time for all the newfangled ideas that constantly change. You haven’t needed technology and you survived without it, so why learn about it now; and it seems too complicated. Don’t believe the hype that technology will make ministry and life easier. Your flip-phone does all you need.

Don’t read newspapers, besides, all of the news is “bad” and you can get the news off of the television. As a matter of fact all of the news on the television is bad, so just look at the televangelists and BET.

Don’t attend the connectional meetings or other annual conferences because it is waste of time and money you and your church don’t have.

Don’t read the denominational periodicals because the denominational periodicals probably can’t teach or enlighten you about pastoring.

Don’t let parishioners get to close to you because “Familiarity breeds contempt.” If the people get to know you real well, they will lose respect for you. You don’t need to make friends with parishioners.

Don’t share your inner feelings because the people need to see in you as a strong person who is in control. You can’t show weakness, you need to always be in control.

Don’t schedule medical and dental exams because you don’t have time and the doctor might tell you something you don’t want to hear. Just pray, trust God and don’t worry about your health; God will work everything out!

If the doctor informs you that you have hypertension or other medical issues, don’t follow up or allow them to put you in the hospital; don’t worry, just pray.

Don’t let mean-spirited people in the church “run over” you. Stand up for yourself and fight. Don’t negotiate, get even!

Don’t be concerned about being in the office at church because nobody will stop by. Don’t be concerned about study or office hours. The previous pastor didn’t have office hours.

Don’t worry about visiting the sick and shut-in members. Visit the sick and shut-in members when you have time. You might want to visit your influential members or officers who support your program. Or better yet, let the stewards, trustees and other church officers visit the sick and while they are at it, they can also take Communion to them.

Don’t give the people your cellphone number because they will be bothering you all hours of the day and night.

If you live in your own home, don’t list your mailing address on your calling card, list your Post Office box or the church address. You don’t want people stopping by.

Don’t take the time to attend the athletic or school events of your young people who might be playing sports or acting in a play or musical. You have other things to do on Friday nights.

Do what you need to do to avoid conflict. Try to be well-liked and make popular decisions.

Head-off conflict by “stacking” the various boards with people who agree with you and with people with whom you feel comfortable and with people who will not create conflict and “mess.” Don’t worry about building teams; that’s for majority churches

When you attend connectional meetings, enjoy the fellowship and camaraderie, but don’t share with the congregation or your colleagues what took place at the connectional meeting. The church paid for you to attend the meeting, but there is no reason the church members need to know what happened at the meeting.

Avoid conflict at all costs and when you deal with the perpetrators, “don’t take any enemies,” “kill” those who oppose you and kill the church if necessary!

Don’t worry about the reality that dynamic decisions need “push and pull,” tension and scrutiny, that “steel sharpens steel” and any issue “worth its salt” needs the thinking of all sides of issues. Don’t be concerned about the Hegelian Dialectic. Forget the nonsense of the notion of "thesis, antithesis, and synthesis," as an excellent strategy to resolve disagreements and conflict. Avoid conflict! Avoid disagreement! Do it your way and if you have to; remind the folks that you are the pastor. And if necessary, tell them that God spoke to you!

Don’t worry about giving gifts or refreshments to your officers or parishioners. Don’t carry any donuts, soft drinks or juice or other treats to meetings; they are not expecting you to do that anyway. You do not need to be perceived as the generous pastor.

Don’t forget to let the folks know dates of your birthday, anniversary and other gift receiving opportunities such as Christmas and pastor’s appreciation so they will have an opportunity to give you money and gifts. Give generous praise to those who give you gifts; that’s a time to remind the congregation that “it is more blessed to give than to receive.”

If you have been the pastor of a church for a number of years plan to have the folks honor you with anniversary celebrations; the Baptists and Pentecostals do it. They have 2^nd, 10^th, 15^th anniversary celebrations. You should enjoy the fruits or your labors too.

Don’t worry about the fact that AME pastors receive annual appointments and if a pastor is given successive appointments, each pastoral appointment is an annual appointment and the pastor starts over anew after each annual conference. Call it an “anniversary” because it sounds more important than “appreciation.”

Don’t worry about having a mentor, just do it your way! You don’t need a mentor to guide you through the process of pastoring your church. You don’t need a “sounding board" for your ministry. Do it your way and trust your instincts. You are the pastor!

Don’t worry about AME tradition or be concerned about tradition or how you dress. If the televangelists wear jeans and an open shirt, you can too. Don’t be concerned about how the older people feel.

Don’t worry about the presiding elder or the bishop. Let them do their thing and you do your thing. You are the pastor! Sometimes you have to remind the people that you are the pastor! You don’t need any guidance from the presiding elder or the bishop.

You need to do “on the spot” correction. When you need to get after folks or correct members, do it publicly so everybody knows where you stand. Don’t mince your words; tell it like it is! Let the people know that you are the pastor! Use “teaching moments” generously.

You don’t need to bow or kneel in reverent prayer before taking your seat in the pulpit, instead, check the congregation to see who is there and who is not there!

It is no problem if you miss praying and reading the Bible daily. God knows your heart, besides, you are busy. Pray, read the Bible and study when you have time to prepare a sermon!

Don’t worry about being a biblical scholar, you are a preacher! People come to church to hear your message. You need to help them to get their praises on. People need to feel something when they come to church.

Don’t worry about studying and “digging deeply” in preparing a sermon. Just write a few points, simply stated; “Three points, a hymn and whoop!”

Sometimes, you won’t have time to prepare a sermon. Don’t be concerned when your sermon is an “off the cuff” sermon because a whoop and shout will make it alright. Remember, “Three points, a hymn and whoop!”

Don’t worry about “meat” in a sermon; just make sure the sermon has plenty of “gravy!”

If you can get the folks to act at church as they do at an athletic event, that’s church; and the people will feel something and feel that they have been to church!

When you get into a crunch at a business meeting, revert to religious babble and say, “The Lord told me…” That will shut most folks up!

Let it be obvious that you don’t like or respect the presiding elder or the bishop.

You don’t have to be a serious student of the Bible, there’s a lot of good stuff on the internet.

The “God brought me through and God will bring you through difficulty” messages work and it makes people feel good. Learn all the clichés because clichés can get you out of a senior moment or loss of biblical thought

Don’t worry about Satan; that’s old fogey stuff that we don’t need to be concerned about.

Do beg for money and find creative ways to beg for money. Convince the “Flock” that if they give generously, God will generously bless them.

The “flock” comes first; don’t worry about your family! Your family knew you were going into the ministry. The “flock” needs your attention. And, besides, the “flock” pays your salary.

If you can resonate with more than five of these, it might be time to redirect the path of your pastoral ministry.

2. READER RESPONSE TO EDITORIAL AND OTHER ISSUES:

Letter to the Editor:

RE: TCR Op-Ed - THE IMPORTANCE OF BEING A DELEGATE

We all love and appreciate Dr. Jamye Coleman Williams for her long tenure of leadership in African Methodism. Her wisdom, knowledge and love of the church inspire and inform us as we strive to serve God in African Methodism. Two of her recent statements (TCR Online -06/24/2016), however, were a bit incomplete and left an incorrect impression on the reader.

Her words:

“I must remind you that you are free, unencumbered, not financially dependent upon the Church, and accountable only to God.

When we are called upon to vote on an issue, I would also remind you that your vote is yours. It does not belong to anyone else. You—and you alone—have the right to choose on what and for whom you cast your ballot.”

Rather than argue about the financial independence of delegates who go to General Conference heavily dependent on the resources provided by lay, clergy and non-AME sponsors, let us focus on "accountable only to God."

While a rhetorical gem, our accountability to God is much more complex as we look at our life in the Church. We are accountable to each other in the house of faith. We are accountable to our class leader, choir president, lay president, the church conference, quarterly conference, official board and annual conference. We are accountable to the pastor, presiding elder and bishop. We are accountable to the Bible, Discipline and Robert's Rules of Order. I would like to think Dr. Coleman Williams was not suggesting that our Methodist system, built on accountability, is a mere direct relationship to God, and God alone.

As it relates to General Conference Delegates, the statement that "Your vote is yours" is also incomplete. The General Conference is a delegated, representative body. General Conference delegates are elected to represent the interests of the annual conferences which elected them "on behalf of…" those persons who send them under the guidance of the Holy Spirit. They are not there to exercise their own self-interests as influenced (rightly or wrongly) by the winds which blow before, during and after the meeting. Delegates are not seated as individuals. They are part of a collective deliberation representing the Annual Conference, Episcopal District and the General Conference as a whole. Everyone is accountable to God, but we are jointly accountable in various groupings beyond our personal, individual entities.

Dr. Coleman Williams appears to be concerned about delegates being "directed" about how to vote at the General Conference. She is correct in that delegates must take some personal responsibility. However, it is not fair to say that delegates do not owe their lay and clergy leaders from their annual conference and episcopal district more than a casual hearing. Who is to say that God is not speaking through those leadership voices? Aren't we praying for our lay and clergy leaders?

There are many sounds bombarding delegates at the General Conference. Bishops, candidates, and various pleas from special interest groups have already filled mailboxes (postal and electronic) and telephone lines as more await us in Philadelphia. Even Dr. Coleman Williams has issued solicitations for her stated "personal" concerns. She is correct. We must listen with wisdom to everything that is spoken. We must pray and seek God's direction.

Let us not go to Philadelphia, though, thinking that every delegate is an autonomous individual who does not truly owe something to the people who send them as "their" voice and vote. The people under God deserve our prayerful work as delegates. While arm-twisted, unexplained dictates should be shunned along with high pressure "tickets," we cannot cavalierly ignore our conference and district leaders. Our accountably to God at the General Conference flows through our corporate, not individual, identity.

(Name withheld by request.)

3. NEWS AROUND THE AME CHURCH:

-- New pastor at Emanuel AME, Rev. Eric Manning, delivers first sermon...

On Sunday Mother Emanuel AME Church received its first sermon from its newly appointed pastor, Rev. Eric Manning. He previously served as pastor…

-- Titusville church holds vigil for Pulse victims

On Sunday, St. James AME Church, a predominantly Black church in Titusville, held a vigil in during their 11 a.m. service, in which attendees sang and...

-- Pastoral Shift at Emanuel Continues to Challenge the Church’s Resilient Congregation.

Amid its 12-day “Victory in the Valley” commemoration honoring the victims and survivors of the June 17, 2015 shooting tragedy at Emanuel AME Church, Rev. Betty Deas Clark, who in January was named Pastor of the congregation, last week was removed...

-- Appended below is a link of the video of the AME tribute at the Texas Democratic Convention.

A tribute during the opening ceremony of the Texas Democratic State Convention on June 17, 2016 was made in remembrance of the first anniversary of the Emanuel 9 and Sandra Bland in San Antonio, Texas.

Go to the following link to see the video on YouTube: https://youtu.be/yLBfTX1qiqo

4. RICHARD ALLEN LEWIS - MAKING THE 2016 AFRICAN METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH-GENERAL CONFERENCE HAPPEN:

By Phyllis Qualls with contributors Lisa Hammons and Karen Bluing Osborne

-- The 50^th Quadrennial Session of the General Conference of the African Methodist Episcopal Church will take place in Philadelphia—July 6-13, 2016

The African Methodist Episcopal Church is the oldest Black religious denomination in the United States, incorporated in 1816. It has been a leader in faith based organizations. This denomination, whose roots are in Philadelphia, branches out throughout the world, with churches throughout the United States and abroad in Africa, India, Canada, England, the Caribbean, and South America.

The AMEC General Conference takes place every four years in a city in the United States. It was held in Nashville in 2012, and Richard Lewis, who serves as Treasurer and CFO, was instrumental in facilitating the gathering of approximately 30,000 of the church’s representatives to Music City. In 2016, the auspicious Bicentennial event travels to Philadelphia and Richard Lewis, and his team of experts will coordinate, direct and implement the event, where it all started 200 years ago in the City of Brotherly Love.

A native Nashvillian, Lewis is a man of great determination. The AMEC General Conference in 2012 welcomed U. S. First Lady Michelle Obama. A slate of high-profile and well-detailed pre-Conference events, worship services, and business sessions are scheduled for the epic occasion, July 6-13, 2016.

The life-long AME member was elected Treasurer in 1996 and has coordinated four General Conferences, in 2000 in Cincinnati, Ohio; 2004 in Indianapolis, Indiana; 2008 in St. Louis, Missouri; and 2012 in Nashville. According to Dr. Lewis, “Each one is different and takes on a life of its own. The city has its own ambiance and each conference has its set of issues, from electing bishops and general officers, to focusing on youth groups in a special way to issues with the host city.”

This visionary does not stop. He is resolute in his love for the Church and his commitment to see it grow, develop and be sustainable. This year, one of the Conference’s objectives is going paperless. Everything will be done in a high-technological fashion. “This was a bold step for a church steeped in tradition. However, in addition to being technologically astute, it saves money on printing and shipping publications,” said Lewis.

Lewis has been -a strong force in the community and the AME Church. To honor him, the Organized Lay of the 13th Episcopal District of the AME Church (comprised of Tennessee and Kentucky) recently held its inaugural Richard Allen Lewis Golf Tournament. Barbara Ivery, president said, “Dr. Lewis’ generous support of the Tennessee Conference Lay Organization paved the way for the vision of a scholarship fund to become a reality. The inaugural golf scramble, named in his honor, is our major scholarship fund raiser which will allow the organization to award scholarships to deserving high school graduates in their pursuit of higher education.”

The AMEC Treasurer said, “I am humbled to have such an event named in my honor and pleased to help students pay for their educational pursuits. What a joyous blessing.”

This committed man has a strong educational background and career that prepared him imminently for his role in the AME Church worldwide, coupled with his insatiable dedication to always do his best. He served as the first African American Vice Chair of the Tennessee Board of Regents. This man of the people understands the power of relationship building. Lewis can easily be seen in a board room with high-level officials planning, debating, and negotiating. He can then be seen on the TSU alumni bus, riding to a Tiger football game, laughing, telling gridiron stories, and enjoying old friends loyal to TSU.

The AMEC -CFO earned his B.S. degree in Business Administration from TSU, an A.D. degree in Mortuary Science and Business Management from John A. Gupton College of Mortuary Science, and a graduate degree in Banking from Louisiana State University. Lewis holds honorary doctorate degrees from two educational institutions.

Whether handling the financial matters of the AME Church, or overseeing his family businesses, he is always giving it his all. Presently he serves as owner, Captain D’s Restaurant and Transfare Incorporated, an airport food service concession. He has served as owner and president of Lewis and Wright Funeral Directors since 1983.

Titled “Dr.” in the AME Church, Dr. Lewis is consistent…a man of respect for individuals, strong supporter of education preparation, goal setting and strategic planning and delivery. He is known for “Planning Your Work and Working Your Plan.” His commitment to fiduciary responsibility is most evident with the AMEC General Conference. If you are interested in visiting this historical event or learning more about this great Zion, visit the Church’s official website, www.ame-church.com.

Once there, you will know Richard Lewis is the conductor and the man making it happen.

5. IMPORTANT HEALTH COMMISSION INFORMATION FOR GENERAL CONFERENCE:

Health Commission Wellness Stations will provide basic first aid, blood pressure checks, blood sugar checks and wellness information. We will have one (1) large main station (location TBD) and two (2) satellite stations located at the back of the General Meeting Ballroom. The satellite stations will only handle triage for emergencies that occur in the General Meeting Ballroom. Please go to the main station for all other needs.

If you see Health Commission or Emergency personnel working during in an emergency, please give them room to do so. Do not crowd around them.

The Wellness Room will not carry any over-the-counter medications. As such, please anticipate your routine needs. A list of area pharmacies will be available at the Wellness Stations.

The Health Commission Wellness Stations and booth will provide a list of Jefferson Hospital Urgent Care locations. Stop by the station and Health Booth in Vendor hall for the full list.

Health Commission Volunteers will be easily identified by the Health Commission patch and orange and red flags/signs.

If you wish to volunteer, bring your current CPR/First Aid Card. If you require recertification, please attend the CPR certification and re-certification class on July 5^th (see below). You may register to volunteer at: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/IHCWellnessRoom

6. HEALTH COMMISSION STAYING HEALTHY TIPS WHILE ATTENDING THE 50^TH SESSION OF THE GENERAL CONFERENCE:

If you take medication, bring your medication, have a list of your medications (and allergies) with you at all time and take medication as prescribed. Wear your emergency bracelet. Keep the contact information of your healthcare provider and pharmacy in your wallet/purse.

Wear comfortable walking shoes or sneakers to avoid unnecessary foot pain, muscle cramps and poor blood circulation. Please do not wear shoes that have not been “broken in” or are too tight.

Do not sit for long periods of time. Take walking and stretching breaks several times during the day. Walk with the Health Commission each morning at 7 a.m. to prepare you for a day of walking. In order to increase your exercise tolerance, if you are cleared by your healthcare provider, attempt to begin walking now.

Make time for rest and sleep. Lack of sleep and proper rest can lead to medical complications, confusion and poor decision-making.

Wear comfortable clothing. Avoid tight clothing that can hinder proper breathing, causing overheating and interfere with proper digestion of food. Bring a jacket or sweater for air conditioned rooms.

Avoid big meals and over-eating. Big meals while traveling away from home and in a new location can lead to stomach ache, constipation, heart attacks, gas and unnecessary discomfort while sitting in long meetings or worship services.

Adhere to your dietary restrictions. There are several restaurants and stands in the area that provide healthy meals.

Stay hydrated! Drink and/or sip on water during the day.

Eat vegetables, berries and apples with natural fiber to help control blood sugar and to help avoid constipation and other bowel problems.

Pack healthy snacks to keep your blood sugar level and avoid low blood sugar during meetings.

If you have food allergies - bring your emergency medication (Epi-Pen and antihistamine). Ask what is in the food before you eat, do not try unfamiliar food and do not eat food you know you are allergic too (i.e. seafood, nuts or strawberries)

Do not forget your oxygen, CPAP machine or other equipment. Take a picture or write down your settings prior to leaving home, just in case equipment malfunction occurs. If you encounter equipment malfunction, please contact your equipment vendor. Inform the Wellness Room immediately if you require assistance.

If you have a chronic medical condition of which you would like us to be aware, come to the Wellness Room soon as you arrive and provide us with your hotel room number, medical information and contact information.

If you are diabetic - monitor your blood sugar daily as required. Stress and being off your normal routine may cause fluctuations in your glucose.

If you require dialysis, please make arrangements before you leave home. If you need assistance while onsite, please come to the Wellness Room.

If you are sick or have a fever - notify the Wellness Room volunteers or your delegation health coordinator immediately and they will notify the Health Commission. If you are ill, please do not enter the General Conference Ballroom prior to being triaged.

Health Commission Pre-Conference Training and Education Sessions

On July 4^th and 5^th, the Health Commission will offer a Health Directors and Coordinators Training. Anyone who is a Health Director or Health Coordinator at any level or is interested in the work of the Health Commission is invited to participate. Participation is free, but we are requesting that you register so that we can adequately prepare. The registration link is https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/IHCTrainingRegistration

BCLS and Heart Saver CPR training is being offered on July 5^th from 12:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. The registration link is https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/IHCTrainingRegistration

Lunch and Learn Sessions will provide information on a variety of topics. They will be held July 6-9^th and 11-13^th during the General Conference lunch breaks. The registration link, which also contains the link to register for the Blood Drive is https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/LunchandLearnRegistration. The Caring for the Communities Health Commission Sickle Cell Awareness Blood Drive will occur on July 12^th from 9 a.m.to 5 p.m. **You must stay for the entire Lunch and Learn Session**

*The Rev. Miriam J. Burnett, MD, MDiv, MPH, Medical Director, AMEC Connectional Health Commission [Telephone: (267) 636-2407; Email: mjbchcamec@yahoo.com]

7. THE 50^TH QUADRENNIAL SESSION OF THE AFRICAN METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH GENERAL CONFERENCE - DAY PASSES:

Day Passes will be available onsite only.

Cost for a day pass is $75.00 per day.

Badges or valid Day Pass will be required to enter the main hall during Business Sessions.

Badges or Day Pass will not be required during the Worship Services.

8. LIVE-STREAMING AT THE GENERAL CONFERENCE:

The worship services at the General Conference will be live streamed. The Sunday Communion Service will be broadcast live on the Word Network. No business sessions will be live-streamed.

*Submitted by the office of the AMEC General Secretary / CIO

9. NEWS FROM THE 20^TH EPISCOPAL DISTRICT:

Submitted by the Rev Florence H. McLaren

Bishop Reginald Jackson is the Presiding Prelate of the 20^th Episcopal District and Mrs. Christy Davis Jackson is the Episcopal Supervisor

-- There’s A Spirit of New Life Sweeping Harare District

Book of Worship

In our previous newsletter it was reported that Kambuzuma AMEC was developing a book of worship, which included selected hymns and liturgy as well as hymns in other languages, Praise and Workshop songs, Christmas Carols and religious songs from other cultures. The text has been completed and it is entitled the Kambuzuma/Sims Chapel Book of Worship and distributed as a joint Kambuzuma/Sims Chapel in-house publication. So hopefully gone are the days when many in the congregation were left in the dark as to what hymn people were singing or what words they should either be saying or singing too.

Kambuzuma hosts Harare pastors meeting

Two Pastors’ Meetings have been held this year; the first in Chitungwiza and the second hosted by Kambuzuma. Both were very successful meetings with many issues of importance discussed.

Sims Chapel marches through Mbare on Palm Sunday

On Palm Sunday the Sims Chapel congregation paraded through the streets of Mbare carrying palm leaves and singing hymns to mark the triumphal entry of Jesus into Jerusalem.

Golden Girls’ April Birthdays

Sims Chapel is honouring its elderly ladies who have been given the name of Golden Girls. Three of them had birthdays in April and a cake and other goodies were on hand so that they could have a little celebration in church.

Bishop Jackson helps Sims Chapel out

The new pastor of Sims Chapel, the Rev. McLaren inherited very serious debts when she took over. Now the church is trying its best to clear them. The debts included substantial sums owed to ZESA and the City of Harare. In response to an appeal recently, the Bishop sent a donation of $1000 as a gesture of support. Sims Chapel is grateful to the Presiding Elder, the Rev. Israel Chimuse who interceded on the church’s behalf and the Rt. Rev. Bishop Reginald T. Jackson who saw it fit to chip in.

Youth Choirs come in 4^th and 5^th

One of the pastor’s efforts to return the situation at Sims Chapel to normalcy has been to revive lapsed activities. With the revival of the YPD, she also initiated a choir. With the increase in youth participation at Kambuzuma, they too were able to start a choir. At the recently ended YPD convention Kambuzuma came fourth and Sims Chapel fifth, with Sims Chapel walking away with the prize for best attire.

Youth Self-Denial Week

Sims Chapel Youth cleaned up the church yard, cut grass, planted a garden and created parking bays and Kambuzuma visited an orphanage as part of their observance of Self-Denial Week.

-- “You Can Do it for Yourself” - A Pastor’s Good Idea:

One day in church, the Pastor surprised everyone by asking people to trust her. She said I’m looking for ten people to give me $6-50 each and I will reveal what I want it for by the last day of February. There was no hesitation. Nine people volunteered immediately. It was a bit more difficult to get the tenth but eventually the last $6-50 was forthcoming. The weeks went by and I am sure most people forgot all about the Pastor’s request—except perhaps those who had given her money. Then one day something different happened in church. There was a pile of black plastic chairs standing near the raised stage to the side of the altar. Perhaps the church that hires the venue on Sunday mornings before the AMEC church left them behind, people guessed. Then to everyone’s surprise the Pro tem Trustee, Brother Dumisani Mtatiwa, came forward and the Pastor’s husband, Dr Robert McLaren, was asked to come down. He looked a bit confused when asked to take one of the chairs and present it to Brother Mtatiwa. It took a long time for the penny to drop. These chairs had been bought by the Pastor with the money people had trusted her with and they were being donated to Sims Chapel. The Pastor’s husband was asked to hand them over.

When asked what it was all about, Pastor Florence said she wanted people to see that we can do things for ourselves. All it takes is a little commitment. For the church to improve or have some property, decorations, flowers, cleaning or any other small but wonderful thing it needs one committed person to initiate things. Its not all things that are done in church that need a Board meeting to gather and agree or discuss about buying things like floor polish. It does not need donations or donors to improve the state of our church. It needs sacrifice, commitment, trust and love for our church.

-- Harare District Conference [27—29 May]

The AME Church in Harare is on the move!

This year’s conference took place at Bright Temple AME Church in Highfield from 27-29 May, where we received magnificent hospitality. The opening service was preached by the Rev. Bright Hlahla and after then we went into reports with all the churches delivering their pastoral and committee reports. Hour of Power was graced by the Guest Preacher, Pastor Chipere of the Apostolic Faith Mission [AFM], who spoke to us on the theme of Vision. There followed lectures and discussions on knowing our church and leadership.

Brother Rust Vimbai Gwatidzo was presented as a candidate for admission to the ministry. Florence Kasaki, child of late pastor Mabasa Kasaki from Bright Temple was adopted as an orphan by the district. All her education expenses will be paid. The Rev. Israel Chimuse undertook to photocopy key parts of the Discipline for all the pastors and the district leaders in order to know their church. It was resolved that budgets of the Lay to be paid in on 26th when the Bicentennial Celebrations will be taking place.

Contact Kambuzuma AMEC

Website: https://sites.google.com/site/amekambuzuma/

Email: flogambe@gmail.com

Mobile: +263 772 335451/712 530350

1997 Mutero Road, Section 5

Kambuzuma, Harare

Contact Sims Chapel AMEC

Email: amesimschapel@gmail.com

Mobile: +263 772956408/772335451

7 Lundi Street, Mbare, Harare

10. AME BISHOP'S DAUGHTER IS CANDIDATE FOR COUNTY JUDGE:

Attorney Monique Richardson, daughter of Bishop A. J. and Supervisor Connie Richardson, is a candidate for Leon County Judge, Seat 2. The Election will be held August 30 in communities surrounding Tallahassee, Florida.

She holds a Business degree from Florida A&M University and a Law Degree from the University of Florida. Through her work with Legal Services of North Florida, Atty. Richardson is uniquely qualified to serve as a County Judge. She has practiced various kinds of law, requiring certain skill sets and expertise for each, especially the cases that come before the County Court.

#IamAME

"I have given Easter speeches, participated in the Christmas plays, and the declamation contests at Sunday School Conventions, and attended the YPD conventions and the Christian Education Congresses. I am grateful to be embraced by fellow AMEs even as I embrace what we stand for, and for this moment in time to say: WE CAN WIN!”

Atty. Richardson has also been quoted as saying, "Picking the right person to be a judge has to be more than politics. It has to be more than "who was in the right place with the right connections.

"Being a judge," she says, "is more than sitting robed on an elevated perch making decisions - it's also about figuring out a way to help people in the few moments you have with them, to encourage them - to help make the community better."

For further information and to learn more about her candidacy go to www.MoniqueRichardsonforJudge.com. Atty. Richardson would appreciate greeting fellow AMEs during the General Conference. The Richardson Family would appreciate the prayers, support and encouragement of the AME Connection.

11. THE ALLEGHENY-SCRANTON DISTRICT MAKES SIGNIFICANT DONATION IN SUPPORT OF BREAST CANCER RESEARCH AND AWARENESS:

Erie, Pennsylvania. The "Awesome" Allegheny Scranton District, under the leadership of Dr. Eric L. Brown, Presiding Elder Allegheny Scranton District, Third Episcopal District, selected Breast Cancer Research and Awareness for their 2015-2016 District Outreach Project. Lady Margo Brown, District Coordinator and Outreach Project Chairperson, is a two-time breast cancer survivor who desires to make a difference in the lives of others.

This initiative concluded on June 17, 2016 at the 149th Session of the Allegheny-Scranton District Church School Convention at St. James African Methodist Episcopal Church in Erie, Pennsylvania. The host pastor, Reverend James Keeton, Jr.

The Reverend James Keeton, Jr., pastor St. James African Methodist Episcopal Church, Erie, Pennsylvania; the Reverend Jeannette Hubbard, pastor New Ebenezer African Methodist Episcopal Church, Aliquippa, Pennsylvania; the Reverend Mark Alexander, pastor Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church, New Castle, Pennsylvania and members of their congregations received the Outstanding Supporter Award for the Outreach Project.

Mrs. Ruth Moddelewski, Mission Coordinator for the Pittsburgh Affiliate of the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure Foundation joined us for a special presentation. Dr. Eric L. Brown and Lady Margo Brown were delighted to present a donation on behalf of the Allegheny-Scranton District in the amount of $2,200.00. This donation will enable the Susan G. Komen Foundation to underwrite “22” mammograms for women within the Western Pennsylvania Region. For the past 12 years, we have raised over $13,200!

Submitted by Shelly Brown, Administrative Assistant Allegheny-Scranton District

12. MINISTER’S SPOUSES ALLIANCE PRESENT 4^TH ANNUAL LITTLE MISS PRINCESSES AND LITTLE MASTERS CORONATION:

Pensacola Panama City District Minister’s Spouses Alliance of the Florida Annual Conference sponsored their 4^th Annual Little Miss Princesses and Little Masters Coronation, held April 24, 2016, 3:30 p.m. (CST) at the Greater St. Joseph AME Church in DeFuniak Springs, Florida.

The Worship Leader was District Coordinator, Mrs. Mae F. Myrick. Master Gamaliel Harris gave the invocation and Princess Makayla Hooks gave the scripture.

Princes Mackenzi Harris welcomed everyone to the program. The musical selections for the occasion were rendered by the Disciples of Praise of Bethel AME Church in Pensacola, Florida.

The Reverend D. Sinclair Forbes presented the Mistresses of Ceremony, which were Sisters Erika Dotson and Ramona Hooks. Youth on Parade consisted of a Black Monologue presented by Master Jayden Watkins, Bethel AME Church in Pensacola, Florida. Praise Dancers Princess Tamaya Hull, Masters Jurell Johnson, Ricky Johnson and Tyrel Smith, of Hurst Chapel AME Church in Pensacola. Praise Dancers Princesses Asianna Skipper, MaKenzie Harris, Japree Durham, Makayla Hooks, TyRhonda Battle, Antwoinez Morris, and Shelby Morse; Masters Gamaliel Harris, Robert Morse, Kaleb Williams and Kaden Edwards of Greater St. Joseph AME Church in DeFuniak Springs, Florida.

Representing The Ida Hand Legacy is Princess Mylani Nicole Latson age 7, daughter of Moneka Grace and the late John Wesley Latson, Jr. and a member of Bethel AME Church, Pensacola, Florida, the Reverend Clifton Riley, Pastor. The Reverend Sonja Riley and Sister Monica Tellis, Chairpersons.

Representing The Etta Hudson Legacy is Master Kaleb Williams age 6, son of Kimberly Williams and Kelvin Shirling and a member of Greater St. Joseph AME Church, DeFuniak Springs, the Reverend Gregory Harris, pastor. Chairpersons, the Reverend Sandra Jones and Sister Erika Dotson.

Representing The Eva Cotton Legacy was Master Maliik Nelson age 11, son of Stacey Cyrus and Solomon Nelson and a member of Allen Chapel AME Church, Lynn Haven, Florida; the Reverend Sandra Hooper-Clark, pastor. C, Sister Tammy Hill and Sister Libby Manitaut served as chairpersons.

Representing The Lena Brandon Legacy was Princess Aaliyah Linda-Marie Jackson age 6, daughter of Aaron Jackson and Rachel Clark and a member of Mt. Zion AME Church in Crestview, Florida; the Reverend Darryl Hooks, Pastor. Sister Ramona Hooks and Sister Alfreda Ewing served as chairpersons.

The Coronation began with the Reverend Freddie N. Tellis asking each Princess and Master random questions make this part of the program so entertaining. It was awesome when the kids began asking Pastor Tellis questions.

2016 PPCD MSA Little Miss Princess is, Aaliyah Linda-Marie Jackson

2016 PPCD MSA 1st Runner up Little Miss Princess is, Mylani Nicole Latson

2016 PPCD Little Master is, Maliik Nelson

2016 PPCD 1st Runner up Little Master is, Kaleb Williams

The Reverend Lawrence Gantt AKA “The Horn Blowin’ Preacher” performed a special tribute. The invitation to Discipleship was extended by The Reverend Sandra Jones and we had a young lady come to the altar for prayer. Remarks were given by Mistresses of Ceremony and the Minister’s Spouses Coordinator, Sister Mae F. Myrick.

The Reverend Darryl Hook gave the closing prayer, the introduction of Ministers and the Presiding Elder of the Pensacola Panama City District, The Reverend Phillip Russ IV.

The Spouses of the Pensacola Panama City District says thanks to all participants, parents and supporters of this program. “To God be the Glory!”

The Rt. Reverend Adam J. Richardson, Jr. Presiding Bishop

Mrs. Connie Speights Richardson, Episcopal Supervisor

The Reverend Phillip Russ IV, Presiding Elder

Mrs. Janice Lee Russ, District Consultant

Mrs. Mae F. Myrick, District MSA Coordinator

Mrs. Monica Tellis, District MSA 1st Vice President

13. THE 2016 ELEVENTH EPISCOPAL DISTRICT ANNUAL CONFERENCE SCHEDULE AND VENUES:

Bishop Adam Jefferson Richardson, Presiding Prelate

Dr. Connie S. Richardson, Episcopal Supervisor

The 126^th Session of the South Conference

Date: Tuesday, August 30 – Friday, September 2

Host Church: Mt. Hermon AME Church, Ft. Lauderdale

Conference Site: The Diplomat Hotel, 3555 South Ocean Drive, Hollywood

Host Pastor: The Rev. Henry Elmore Green, Jr.

Host Presiding Elder: The Rev. Vincent Floyd Mitchell

The 151^st Session of the Florida Conference

Date: Tuesday, September 13 – Friday, September 16

Host Church: Gregg Chapel AME Church, Ft. Walton Beach

Conference Site: Emerald Coast Convention Center, 1250 Miracle Strip Pkwy

Host Pastor: The Rev. Cecil B. Williams

Host Presiding Elder: The Rev. Philip Russ IV

The 116^th Session of the Central Conference

Date: Tuesday, September 27 – Friday, September 30

Host Church: Allen Chapel AME Church, Daytona Beach

Host Pastor: The Rev. Nathan M. Mugala

Host Presiding Elder: The Rev. Hartford Lee

The 76^th Session of the West Coast Conference

Date: Tuesday, October 11 - Friday October 14

Host Church: New Bethel AME Church, Lakeland

Conference Site: Double Tree Hotel, 4500 West Cypress Street, Tampa

Host Pastor: The Rev. Eddie Lake

Host Presiding Elder: The Rev. Jimmy J. Thompson

The 141^st Session of the East Conference

Date: Tuesday, November 1 – Friday, November 4

Host Church: St. James AME Church, Orange Park

Conference Site: Omni Hotel, 245 Water Street, Jacksonville

Host Pastor: The Rev. Dr. Alesia Ford Burse

Host Presiding Elder: The Rev. Eugene Moseley

The 77^th Session of Bahamas Conference

Date: Thursday, November 10 - Saturday, November 14

Host Church: Cummings-Young Temple AME Church, Freeport, Grand Bahama

Host Pastor: The Rev. Hudson M. Williamson

Host Presiding Elder: The Rev. Dr. Ranford A. Patterson

The Eleventh Episcopal District Planning Meeting:

Thursday, November 18 – Friday, November 19, 2016

14. THE TRUTH IS THE LIGHT:

*The Reverend Dr. Charles R. Watkins

Based on Biblical Text: Romans 10:8: The word is nigh thee, even in thy mouth, and in thy heart: that is, the word of faith, which we preach.

I would like to use this text to take a close look at our faith. Let’s focus on the faith Paul says we ought to preach. Let us consider the faith that should be in our mouth, and in our heart, where it comes from and how it gets deposited into our spirit.

Faith is God’s provision for us made available by His mercy and His grace. It is drawn from the unseen realm of the spirit to this natural earthly realm. The amount of faith we take out of the storehouse depends exclusively on how much we hope for. The Bible reminds us that, “Faith is the substance of things hoped for” (Hebrews 11:1).

It may be a little difficult for some folk to understand just how God’s storehouse of faith could be full of everything we need. When we try to comprehend God’s provision, our programmed minds quickly turn to the material things of life. This is true most times because we think of God’s provision as tangible sustenance. Sustenance for the most part we think is bread, water, shelter, finances and other material comforts. However, God’s storehouse does not operate quite like that. The faith plan operates more like, when we desire food and shelter, God provides opportunity. When our desire is healing, God provides strength.

Hearing deposits faith into our spirit. Our hearing is God’s transport system. The Bible says, “Faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God” (Romans 10:17). The truth of the matter is no one can build a faith foundation without first hearing the Word of God. Yes, the God who can do anything could have chosen other ways to send His Word to us. However, He wanted us to be more than mere puppets without choice. Thus, God requires us to hear His Word and make a personal decision. The grand design of salvation simply says if we hear the Word and confess that Christ is our Savior, and we believe in our heart that Christ was raised from the dead, we shall be saved. The formula for salvation simply requires that we hear and then believe.

I believe the difficulty for some folk to truly grasp the real meaning of the Word lies in its simplicity. It may sound oversimplified, however the reality of our relationship with God is that we merely have to hear and accept God’s deposit of faith in our spirit. There is no need for us to prove our value to God. The truth is God wants us, sins and all.

So faith is God’s provision for us, and our hearing is God’s transport system. Then there needs to be a storage place for all that we hear. That storage place is our heart. It is the place where faith is stored. The Bible says, “For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness.” Our heart holds all the deposited promises of God, waiting for us to make a withdrawal. To withdraw we need but to speak the Word of faith.

Seasoned Christians make small faith withdrawals from the heart all day long without hesitation. In many little ways, we allow God’s provision of faith to take up residence in our hearts. But that heart storage is not just for the little things. It’s for the big things also.

The faith stored in our heart is good for a withdrawal when our back is up against the wall and we don’t know which way to turn. The faith stored in our heart is good for a withdrawal when we can’t see the light at the end of the tunnel and when we have been kicked, ruined, weakened, or shackled by circumstance beyond our control.

When Satan has kicked us, we can make a faith withdrawal, and God will lift us up. When we have been blindsided with sin, we can make a faith withdrawal, and God will forgive us.

*The Reverend Dr. Charles R. Watkins, Jr., is the pastor of Morris Brown AME Church in Charleston, South Carolina

15. GETTING TO ZERO: ETHIOPIA:

*The Rev. Dr. Oveta Fuller is currently on Sabbatical leave from the

University of Michigan and is currently in Africa and will submit her column as her schedule permits. She is the incoming Director, African Studies Center Associate Professor Dept Microbiology and Immunology University of Michigan Ann Arbor, Michigan

16. iCHURCH SCHOOL LESSON BRIEF FOR SUNDAY, JULY 3, 2016 - NEEDING MORE THAN LAW - ROMANS 2:17-29:

*Brother Bill Dickens

Key Verse: It is not those who hear the Law who are righteous in God’s sight, but it is those who obey the law who will be declared righteous. Romans 2:13

Introduction

Irony is an interesting word in our English vocabulary. It means the expression or actions of someone whose outcome is the opposite of what is intended. In Greek tragedy drama the character espousing ironic phrases did not know the opposite effect of what he was said. A central element in irony is the main character presumes to have a monopoly of the truth only to discover that his “knowledge” is the source of his shortcoming and demise.

The Adult AME Church School lesson for July 3, 2016 provides a theological critique of irony. The behavior of the religious elite is Paul’s subject. Let’s see how he exposes the duplicitous philosophy -“Do as I say, not as I do.”

Bible Lesson

When one was called a Jew, it came with a great sense of pride and status. Paul, a Jew with impeccable credentials, understood this identity status. The Mosaic Law was to be followed in more than just a perfunctory manner. There was no room for “picking and choosing.” The litmus test of being a Jew rested on unequivocal obedience to God’s law. No Jew was above the law, no exceptions.

In chapter 2 of Romans Paul outlines his case to explain why we need more that legalistic devotion if we want to be followers of God. Paul uses two literary tools to make his case: dissimile and irony. The technique of dissimile describes contradictory behavior of a person. In verses 21 -24 Paul demonstrates that the pious self-confession of Jewish teachers result in behavior inconsistent with Mosaic Law. Mosaic Law is unambiguously clear that devout Jews should not be adulterers, idol worshipers or participants in theft of property. The religious elite teach these principles but do not follow these sacred principles. They are guilty of “Do as I say and not as I do.” This form of dissimile lowers their spiritual credibility in God’s sight. The second technique is irony. Irony is used in verses 25 -29 in the discussion about true circumcision. For the religious elite circumcision was an outward expression about Jewish identity. Since non-Jews or Gentiles were not circumcised, the religious elite concluded that they were not God’s children. Paul argues this view suffers from spiritual myopia. We are not justified before God by outward appearance but inward convictions. This is the eternal truth of our key verse, Romans 2:13. If a person is circumcised but not following God’s law the act of circumcision is pointless. If Gentiles, not being circumcised, follow God’s law they are justified before God. Gentiles who are following God’s will and doing as He commands are the true “circumcision.” Irony of ironies!

Bible Application

Independence Day for the USA will be celebrated on Monday, July 4th. Many will be participating in parades, cookouts and firework displays. I will re-read and meditate on the great July 4th speech (What the Fourth of July Means for the Negro) by Frederick Douglas. Like Paul before him Douglas criticized the social elite for contradictory behavior. The social elite of Douglas’ time desired to celebrate freedom of tyranny form the British monarchy. The irony is their celebration occurred simultaneously with the non-freedom they endorsed for African people in the USA. Celebrating independence of a nation when one third of the population is enslaved was evidence that he Fourth of July was meaningless for Africans in America. The same adherents of the principles of the Constitution and the Declaration of Independence were indifferent at best and cowardly at worst, in the application of these sacred political principles to African slaves. Irony of ironies!! Respect for human dignity transcends opportunistic law and custom. We march on in Jesus’ name. Freedom is never free. QED

Frederick Douglass speech, “The Meaning of July Fourth for the Negro”: http://www.historyisaweapon.com/defcon1/douglassjuly4.html

*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

17. MEDITATION BASED ON HEBREWS 12:1-2:

*The Rev. Dr. Joseph A. Darby

This week’s Meditation is the last one until July 20 since I’ll be attending the 50^th Quadrennial General Conference of the African Methodist Episcopal Church in Philadelphia and, as a delegate, will be more than a little bit busy!

Delegates from around the world will gather to do the work essential to our Methodist system of order. We’ll do more than worship - we’ll affirm the retirement of some Bishops and General Officers, elect their replacements, amend the positive law of the church as needed, set a budget for the next four years, celebrate our Denomination’s Bicentennial and prepare do the work of the church for the next four years.

The General Conference is essentially a huge business meeting, where it’s easy for those in attendance to lose our focus. When I attended my first General Conference in the 1980s, an intense debate broke out in a business session - so intense that one of the delegates grabbed a microphone and said, “We ought to remember that were here in Jesus’ Name.”

When he said that, another delegate grabbed another microphone and said, “This is the General Conference; this has nothing to do with Jesus!” He forgot that regardless of the intensity of the debate over church business and church politics, we were - and still are - the Church and that our essential focus is to carry the Good News, change lives for the better and serve the Savior who brought us salvation on Calvary’s cross.

Remember that not only in your house of faith and worship, but also in you daily life. It’s easy - in a world that offers us more than our share of daily demands and stress and that emphasizes victory at all costs - to focus on our immediate needs, personal success and well-being and try to address life’s challenges by this world’s means, only to run into new roadblocks, aggravations and disappointments along the way.

We’d do well to remember that we are the children of a Mighty God who never fails to bless us, comfort us, strengthen us and keep us in marvelous and unexpected ways. When we keep our eyes on Jesus and seek to do God’s will, we’ll maintain our focus, see new joy break out in our lives day by day, stand up for what’s right and understand why my ancestors in the faith, who could have easily focused on slavery’s chains, instead sang, “Up above my head, I see glory in the air, there must be a God somewhere!”

*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

18. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

The Fifth Episcopal District is saddened to announce the passing of Mrs. Gloria J. Thompson, Life Member of the Women's Missionary Society. Sister Gloria was a past Conference President of the California Conference WMS and a past First Vice-President of the Fifth District WMS and has served in several Connectional WMS capacities. She served as a delegate to the last three sessions of the AME Church General Conference (2004, 2008, and 2012). She is a life-long member of First African Methodist Episcopal Church, Oakland, California where the Rev. Dr. Harold Mayberry is her pastor. She is the mother of Darryl Thompson and loving grandmother to Joseph and Darryl, Jr.

Celebration of life service arrangements are pending.

Expressions of sympathy may be extended to:

Mr. Darryl Thompson and Family

55 Turtle Creek Street

Oakland, CA 94605

19. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

The Third Episcopal District regretfully announces the passing of Brother Calvin Hughey, husband of the Reverend Linda Hughey, Local Elder Greater Allen AME Church, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania and the son of the late Reverend Dr. A. A. Hughey, who was a leader in the Third Episcopal District for many years.

Final Arrangements:

Visitation and viewing were held

Sunday, June 26, 2016

2:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.

House of Law Funeral Home

9406 Frankstown Road

Pittsburgh, PA 15235

Telephone: (412) 241-4943

Fax: (412) 241-4879

Homegoing Celebration:

Monday, June 27, 2016

12:00 Noon

Greater Allen AME Church

3600 California Avenue

Pittsburgh, PA 15212

Telephone: (412) 732-2775

FAX: (412) 732-2776

Eulogist: The Reverend Dr. Floyd Alexander, Third Episcopal District Administrative Assistant

Officiant: Presiding Elder Reverend Dr. Eric L. Brown

Expressions of sympathy may be sent to:

The Reverend Linda Hughey

3528 McClure Avenue

Pittsburgh, PA 15212

Telephone: (412) 766-6688

Email: violasgirl1@gmail.com

20. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of the Reverend Malachi Gibson, Senior Pastor of Historic Trinity AME Church.

Funeral services for Reverend Malachi Gibson, pastor of Historic Trinity AME Church, Manning District, Central Conference in the Seventh Episcopal District.

The Christian Wake will be held:

Saturday, June 25, 2016 at 6 pm

Historic Trinity AME Church

51 W. Rigby Street

Manning, SC

Funeral Services will be held Sunday June 26, 2016 at 3 p.m.

Morris College Neal-Jones Auditorium

100 W. College Street

Sumter, SC

21. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

We regret to share the news of the passing of Brother Torgsten Doniell Simmons on June 14, 2016, the brother of the Reverend Synovia Everett, Itinerant Elder and on the ministry staff at St. John AME Church in Nashville, Tennessee.

Funeral arrangements were as follows:

Family Visitation was held Monday, June 20, 2016 11:00 a.m.

Services were held Monday, June 20, 2016 at 12:00 Noon

St. John AME Church

1822 Formosa Street

Nashville, TN 37208

Telephone: (615) 308-3392

Service was entrusted to:

Terrell Broady Funeral Home, Inc.

3855 Clarksville Pike

Nashville, TN 37218

Telephone: (615) 244-4755

22. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

We regret to inform you of the passing of Ms. Almeta Johnson, the grandmother of the Rev. Dr. Cornelius Hudson, an Itinerant Elder in the Northwest Texas conference. Ms. Almeta Johnson transitioned from labor to reward on Tuesday, June 28, 2016.

The Homegoing Celebration for Mrs. Almeta Johnson is as follows:

Tuesday, July 5, 2016

Wake 10:30 a.m.

Celebration 11:00 a.m.

New Shiloh Baptist Church

2100 N. Monroe Street

Baltimore, Maryland 21223

Services are entrusted to:

Estep Brothers Funeral Home

1300 Eutaw Place

Baltimore, Maryland 21217

Condolences may be sent to:

Dr. C.S. Hudson

PO Box 50702

Fort Worth, Texas 76105

Or emailed to: drc@corneliushudson.org

23. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

We are regretfully announcing the passing of Brother William Lindberg Young, the brother of Reverends Thann & Margaret Young, Pastor and First Lady of Hemingway Temple AME Church in Washington, DC.

Services will be held at 12 noon on Saturday, July 2, 2016 at the church:

Pleasure Hill Baptist Church

15415 Avent Road Whitakers

North Carolina 27891

Send Flowers and messages to:

Hunter-Odom Funeral Home

240 Atlantic Ave.

Rocky Mount, North Carolina 27801

Telephone: (252) 977-3122

Send cards to:

Mrs. Virginia Young Powell

18872 NC 43 Highway North

Whitakers, North Carolina 27891

Or send cards to their home in Olney:

The Rev Thann & the Rev. Margaret Young

18400 Snowberry Way

Olney, Md. 20832

Cellphone: (301) 509-1565

24. BEREAVEMENT NOTICES AND CONGRATULATORY ANNOUNCEMENTS PROVIDED BY:

Ora L. Easley, Administrator

AMEC Clergy Family Information Center

Email: Amespouses1@bellsouth.net

Web page: http://www.amecfic.org/

Telephone: (615) 837-9736 (H)

Telephone: (615) 833-6936 (O)

Cell: (615) 403-7751

Blog: http://ameccfic.blogspot.com/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/AMEC_CFIC

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

25. 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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