Bishop Gregory G. M. Ingram - Chair, Commission on Publications
The Reverend Dr. Johnny Barbour, Jr., Publisher
The Reverend Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III, Editor
1. CORRECTION:
Reference yesterday’s Clergy Family Bereavement Notice for Sister Fannie Ezelle Johnson Hill, it was stated that her husband, the late Rev. Dr. Ben H. Hill was the editor of The Christian Recorder. He was not the Editor of The Christian Recorder; he was the Editor of The A.M.E. Review.
Editor’s Note: Thank you, Dr. Jamye Coleman Williams for the correction.
2. THE EDITOR’S CORNER – “FOR MANY THE ITINERACY HAS TURNED LOCAL”
The African Methodist Episcopal Church is in some ways similar to the U. S. military. The U. S Military has active and reserve components. The active component is fulltime and reserve component is part-time.
Active duty soldiers are fulltime and are available for worldwide deployment twenty-four hours a day, 365 days a year. They receive fulltime pay. Reserve soldiers, under normal conditions, serve two weekends a month and two-weeks in the summer. They are part-time soldiers and receive part-time pay for their military service. They usually hold down a fulltime civilian job, for which they get fulltime pay. Those in the reserves are often referred to as, “weekend or part-time warriors.” When the nation is not at war, they have a "pretty good" deal, but when the nation is at war as we are now in Iraq, the Reserves are ordered to active duty and have been called upon to give more than they had bargained to give. Their part-time “gig” has turned to a fulltime commitment. Many of them opine that being called to active duty was not their intention; their intention was to be part-time soldiers.
The AME church also has two branches. We have “itineracy” and “local” orders of ministry. The itinerant ministry is like the U. S. Army’s active duty component. The itinerant ministry means that those ordained for the itinerant ministry are on a 24/7 availability for deployment wherever the bishop, under his or her Godly judgment, assigns them. Those ordained for local ministry are like the Reserve Component. They serve the local church on weekends and their attendance at the annual conference is similar to the two-week deployment of a reserve soldier. The local minister usually has a fulltime job and serves the church on a part-time basis, usually on Sunday mornings, assisting in the worship service. Not much more is required, except perhaps Bible study, if the local church has Bible Study and Sunday School.
But, upon examination of our system, we have had a breakdown of the our active duty component, i.e., fulltime, itinerant ministry and some of our pastors have perfected the system of making a fulltime ministry, part-time and in a sense have “localized” itinerant appointments. They have turned and active duty assignment into a reserve component-like assignment. The AME Church has a lot of “weekend or part-time warriors.” We have so-called “full-time appointments” where “so-called fulltime pastors have fulltime “civilian jobs” along with their pastoral appointments. Fulltime outside employment takes a lot of time and a lot of energy. It’s a “no-brainer” that some to those holding fulltime jobs are too tired or to busy on their outside jobs to have Bible Studies and Prayer Meetings. There is a lot of truth in the biblical injunction, “one cannot serve two masters.”
The reason often given for an itinerant pastor taking on full or part-time outside of the local church employment is that the local church cannot pay a livable wage. And, that is true. The problem arises that when the pastor takes employment apart from the church, he or she does not work to raise the salary and the result is that the local church is relieved of its responsibility of adequately providing for the upkeep of the preacher and his or her family. It becomes convenient for both parties, the local church and for the pastor who has a job outside of the church.
And, when pastors have good-paying jobs and local churches are relieved of struggling and providing pastoral upkeep, the itineracy breaks down. Pastors and congregations who have become complacent don’t want their pastors who have good jobs to leave because they don’t want to risk getting a pastor who might want to be fulltime in ministry and “hold the congregation’s feet to the fire” for pastoral upkeep. And, some churches have stopped providing for housing allowances and upkeep. Churches are expected to provide adequate livable salaries and to provide housing or housing allowances for their pastors.
Local church’s laity should take the initiative to provide for pastoral upkeep and housing. Pastors should not have to come in and “fight that battle.” The lay leaders of the local church should take pride in providing for their spiritual leaders!
For some the ministry may have become a part-time gig. Go in and preach a sermon, collect a salary, go back home, and “see ya next Sunday.” Where is the notion, “That God will make a way somehow!” And, for those who have been ordained as itinerate elders and serving as associate or assistant ministers, when are you going to be obedient to your itinerant orders? If you are not going to be itinerant, become a local and stay in the local church. We need an overhaul and a recommitment to the itinerant ministry. “Go preach my Gospel…”
Some of our local churches are not growing because we have grown complacent. We have stopped training our clergy and laity. We have become satisfied with the status quo and be are happy with “being good” and local churches have “stopped striving to be the best.” The problem rests especially with the laity, as well as with the clergy.
Older, seasoned AME preachers are not appreciated for their service to our Zion and many of our younger preachers are looking to be mentored and nurtured by tele-evangelists. It looks to me as if many of the tele-evangelists are trying to mimic the AME Church. We have a great system and The Discipline provides direction. We need to follow the rules that we have in place. The foundation legs for polity of the African Methodist Episcopal Church are the itineracy and connectedness through our Church, Quarterly, District, Annual and General conferences.
We all need to read The Discipline from cover to cover. I am amazed at the number of preachers who have not purchased The Discipline! And, if the preachers have not purchased The Disciple, I know their laity has not purchased it. And, certainly, we need to read the Bible!
Editor’s note: Your opinions and comments are welcome.
3. SIMULTANEOUS CHRISTIAN EDUCATION DAY IN THE SEVENTH EPISCOPAL DISTRICT ON MARCH 4, 2006:
Twelve Courses in Six Locations!
9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
New Testament & AME Polity 1
Mt. Carmel AME Church - 1059 Old Black Oak Rd, Moncks Corner, SC 29461
The Reverend Remus Harper, Pastor
Interpersonal Skills & AME Liturgy and Worship
Mt. Zion AME Church - 1305 East Cheves Street, Florence, SC 29506
The Reverend Julius H. McAllister
Effective Teaching Methods & AME History
Emmanuel AME Church - 2130 Barhamville Road, Columbia, SC 29204
The Reverend Timothy Cokley
AME Articles of Religion & Introduction to Christian Education
Emmanuel AME Church - 110 Calhoun Street, Charleston, SC 29401
The Reverend Levern Witherspoon
Old Testament & Historical Foundation of Christian Education
Mt. Carmel AME Church -209 Mount Carmel Church Rd, Abbeville, SC 29644
The Reverend Hannie D. Milling, Jr., Pastor
Religious Pluralism & Christian Stewardship
Williams Chapel AME Church - 1198 Glover Street, Orangeburg, SC 29115
The Reverend Dr. Juenarrl Keith, Pastor
Registration: Adults $25.00
Come join us for a day of learning and exploration
For more information, please call the Episcopal Office -803-935-0500 ext. 106
Submitted to the Christian Recorder by Kabrina Bass –
Christian Education Administrator,
Seventh Episcopal District –
Email: basskabrina@aol.com or kabrinab@amec7thdist.org
The Rt. Reverend Preston W. Williams, II, Presiding Prelate
Mother Wilma D. Webb-Williams, Episcopal Supervisor
Dr. Allen Parrott, Christian Education Director –
Dr. Juenarrl Keith, Christian Education Dean –
Dr. Willie J. Heggins, Asst. Dean/Administrator
4. THE RURAL AND SMALL MEMBERSHIP CHURCH- ENDURING THE TEST OF TIME:
By George R. La Sure, D.Min.
In the midst of today’s hustle and bustle to be and to become, folk are stepping over one another trying to find a “place”, a “niche” or, a “position” somewhere. Technology and its advances have folk jumping from one state to another with an ever-increasing degree of uncertainty as to what tomorrow might be. Folk aren’t, generally, settled and in place as they once were. Jobs aren’t as they used to be: escalators have rapidly replaced elevators in many of our department stores and public facilities, automated production lines and robotics have replaced many a production line worker, back hoes and other earth-moving machines have replaced the need for grave and ditch diggers, corporate poultry producers have replaced the small chicken farmer and the plucking and singeing of feathers, supermarkets and retail giants have replaced neighborhood related businesses, fast food giants have replaced slow home-cooked meals, TV’s, CDs, DVDs, cable and stereos have replaced family conversation and family gathering at meals, electronic games and toys have mesmerized our children with who knows what and have stripped them of the desire to go outside and play and develop their creative energies, and “rush, rush” has replaced quiet reflection and prayerful meditation. What used to be lunar theory has progressed to realized inter-planetary discovery; book tapes and internet excerpts have replaced reading a book; ice cream sundaes prepared with care at the soda fountain have been replaced by a Dairy Queen fast fix.
If we were to document every change, we would require volumes and a lifetime of devoted effort. So much change has occurred within the past 25-50 years that it is safe to say that hardly anything is the same anymore.
As we look back over our shoulder at yesterday and, how it was, straightening up and looking ahead does not provide much of a changed view as it relates to the church. Architecturally, great advances have been made in church design and construction technique. Modern electronic innovations have done a great deal to provide for better sound and lighting within the church and, in some places hymnbooks have become obsolete.
Apart from a partial shift to a more Pentecostal form with a new twist on “prosperity right now” vs. substantive faith and everlasting security, our worship style (the rural and small membership church) is essentially unchanged. The “mega church” is a sort of “metropolitan smorgasbord” where there is something that might appeal and be readily made available to everyone involved. It has rapidly become the “Wal-Mart of Protestantism”.
The rural and small membership church is essentially the same as it was 25-50 years ago in its worship style and its ministry focus. It has remained steady and afloat as the tsunami of time and change has washed ashore and substantially altered the landscape of life. Pastors have come and gone, present-day laity has replaced those who were faithful in the past but, somehow, the spiritual integrity of the rural and small membership church has remained in tact. At closer examination, one who conclude that the rural and small membership church is the enduring fiber of African Methodism.
In life, change is necessary and inevitable but it is good and sobering to know that something of the past is still in tact. It is good to experience a faith and a worship experience that is essentially intergenerational. It is good to go somewhere and still feel the spiritual presence and experience the continuing legacy of those who went on before us anchored in the joy of Jesus! It is good to know that nothing about Jesus has changed. It is good to know that “…by his stripes we are healed.” (Isa. 53:5) It is good to know that He shed His precious blood on a criminal’s cross and, died to save us from our sin. It is good to know that on the third day morn that He was raised up from the dead with all power in His hands. It is especially good to know that He is coming back again for me and for you!
Our ancestry speaks beyond modernity as it lifts its prayerful voice to alert us to life’s ultimate reality: “Be ready when He comes again…He’s coming again so soon!”
As the changes of life wash ashore and cause us to take on new forms, the question remains, “What’s New?” Solomon quickly reminds us in Ecclesiastes 1.9a “…there is nothing new under the sun.” As time continues to take its endless toll on those who have committed their lives to make the A.M.E. Church be the great force that it is today, let us celebrate the enduring fiber of the rural and small membership church as it continues to make a huge contribution to the stability of the Connectional Church.
5. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
Service arrangements for Mrs. Ida Lipscombe, wife of the Reverend Leon Lipscombe, former pastor of Allen AME Church, Washington, DC who passed on Sunday morning, February 12, 2006.
Saturday, February 18, 2006
Family Visitation:
10:00 AM- 12:00 Noon
Funeral:
12:00 Noon
Allen AME Church
2498 Alabama Avenue, S.E.
Washington, DC 20020
Dr. Michael E. Bell, Sr., Pastor
202-889-7296 (Phone)
202-889-2198 (Fax)
Services are entrusted to:
Taylor's Funeral Home
1722 North Capitol Street NW
Washington, DC 20001
(202) 882-2732 (Phone)
(202) 483-6624 (Fax)
Floral Arrangements may be ordered through:
Kingdom Flowers
202-667-8908
Condolences may be sent to:
Rev. Leon Lipscombe and Family
3911 Winbrook Court
Clinton, MD 70735
6. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
From: 1wim@htcomp.net
Sister Gloria Thomas Moore, wife of Retired Presiding Elder Albert Moore, Jr., went home to be with the Lord on Friday, February 10, 2006. Sister Moore has served as a Chairperson of Membership and Recruitment for the Connectional WMS.
Service arrangements:
Tuesday, February 14, 2006
Wake: 7:00 PM
Smith Chapel AME Church
2406 Childs Street
Dallas, Texas 75203
(214) 948-9482 (Phone)
Rev. James W. Ford, Pastor
Homegoing Service:
11:00 A.M.
Wednesday, February 15, 2006
Smith Chapel AME Church
2406 Childs Street
Dallas, Texas 75203
Services entrusted to:
Evergreen Funeral Home
6449 Houston School Road
Dallas, Texas 75241
(214) 376-1500 (Phone)
Condolences may be sent to:
Presiding Elder Albert Moore, Jr.
6640 Braddock Place
Dallas, Texas 75232
(214) 333-0686 (Phone)
7. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT ANNOUNCEMENTS PROVIDED BY:
Bishop Carolyn Tyler Guidry, Chair
Commission on Social Action Clergy Family Information Center
Mrs. Ora L. Easley - Administrator Email: Amespouses1@aol.com
(Nashville, Tennessee Contact) Phone: (615) 837-9736 Fax: (615) 833-3781
(Memphis, Tennessee Contact) (901) 578-4554 (Phone & Fax)
Please remember these families in your prayers.
8. CONDOLENCES TO THE BEREAVED FROM THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER:
The Chair of the Commission on Publications, the Right Reverend Gregory G. M. Ingram; 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.
Archive of The Christian Recorder Online from 2004-2016; Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III, 20th Editor of The Christian Recorder
2/13/2006
THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER ONLINE ENGLISH EDITION (2/13/06)
Bishop Gregory G. M. Ingram - Chair, Commission on Publications
The Reverend Dr. Johnny Barbour, Jr., Publisher
The Reverend Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III, Editor
1. MESSAGE FROM THE RIGHT REVEREND WILFRED J. MESSIAH CONCERNING THE GLOBAL DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL:
TO: The Bishops, Supervisors, General, and Connectional Officers of the African Methodist Episcopal Church -
The Executive Board of the Global Development Council Will Meet On March 13 -14 2006 in Port-of-Spain, Trinidad, 16th Episcopal District. The Rt. Rev. Carolyn Tyler-Guidry is the host bishop.
Obtain hotel and air travel information by contacting Presiding Elder Wayne Anthony who can be contacted at ant.marine_1@yahoo.com
Please note that this is an Executive Board Meeting as per the Doctrine and Discipline of the African Methodist Episcopal Church, page 263, Item 4. Observers are welcomed to attend.
Respectfully,
Bishop Wilfred J. Messiah
Chair, Global Development Council
2. SIMULTANEOUS CHRISTIAN EDUCATION DAY IN THE SEVENTH EPISCOPAL DISTRICT WILL BE HELD ON MARCH 4, 2006:
Twelve Courses in Six Locations!
9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
New Testament & AME Polity 1
Mt. Carmel AME Church - 1059 Old Black Oak Rd, Moncks Corner, SC 29461
The Reverend Remus Harper, Pastor
Interpersonal Skills & AME Liturgy and Worship
Mt. Zion AME Church - 1305 East Cheves Street, Florence, SC 29506
The Reverend Julius H. McAllister
Effective Teaching Methods & AME History
Emmanuel AME Church - 2130 Barhamville Road, Columbia, SC 29204
The Reverend Timothy Cokley
AME Articles of Religion & Introduction to Christian Education
Emmanuel AME Church - 110 Calhoun Street, Charleston, SC 29401
The Reverend Levern Witherspoon
Old Testament & Historical Foundation of Christian Education
Mt. Carmel AME Church -209 Mount Carmel Church Rd, Abbeville, SC 29644
The Reverend Hannie D. Milling, Jr., Pastor
Religious Pluralism & Christian Stewardship
Williams Chapel AME Church - 1198 Glover Street, Orangeburg, SC 29115
The Reverend Dr. Juenarrl Keith, Pastor
Registration: Adults $25.00
Come join us for a day of learning and exploration
For more information, please call the Episcopal Office -803-935-0500 ext. 106
Submitted to the Christian Recorder by Kabrina Bass –
Christian Education Administrator,
Seventh Episcopal District –
Email: basskabrina@aol.com or kabrinab@amec7thdist.org
The Rt. Reverend Preston W. Williams, II, Presiding Prelate
Mother Wilma D. Webb-Williams, Episcopal Supervisor
Dr. Allen Parrott, Christian Education Director –
Dr. Juenarrl Keith, Christian Education Dean –
Dr. Willie J. Heggins, Asst. Dean/Administrator
3. THE EDITOR’S CORNER:
The editor has been busy. In the recent weeks I traveled to Birmingham, Alabama and preached at the Evangelism Meeting and then to Cincinnati to be with the Women Missionary Society. Last Monday, Dr. Johnny Barbour, AMEC Publisher and I traveled to Atlanta, Georgia to be the leadership of the Turner Theological Seminary Alumni Association, as they were getting ready for Founder’s Day. The Turner Alumni leadership is dedicated and they were wrapping up plans for the Founder’s Day celebration. I preached yesterday at St. John AME Church in Montgomery, Alabama. What a church and what a great ministry provided by the Reverend James E. Arnell and the First Family, wife, Arnetta and daughter, Theress. The church leadership and congregation exuded warmth and spiritual energy. The AME Church is alive and St. John AME is alive. Two persons united with the congregation yesterday.
I was the Founder’s Day speaker. The sanctuary was full. It is evident that the Trustees are doing their work. St. John AME has to be one of the prettiest churches in Montgomery. The facility makes on e proud to be an AME.
The worship service was spiritual and uplifting from beginning to end. The combined choir was awesome and the children’s presentation was inspiring. As I travel around the Connection, it is refreshing to see healthy congregations and inspiring leadership; that’s what I saw at St. John. St. John Montgomery, Alabama has it going on!
Last week, I had an opportunity to lead a workshop on Friday morning for the 13th Episcopal District Founder’s Day that was held at Greater Bethel AME Church, Nashville. Bishop Vashti Murphy McKenzie is the presiding prelate and the Reverend Jay Broadnax is the pastor of Greater Bethel. The Founder’s Day Program was a learning, spiritual and inspirational venue. Dr. Dennis Dickerson, Executive Director, Department of Research and Scholarship and the Editor of The A.M.E. Church Review, gave an awesome presentation on the “Church’s Role in Public Policy form a Historical Perspective.”
It was inspirational because four bishops were present during the Founder’s Day celebration. Bishop Carolyn Tyler Guidry, presiding prelate of the 16th Episcopal District was the facilitator for the Presiding Elders’ Retreat. Bishop H. Hartford Brookins gave a presentation on “ministry to the local congregation and to the community.” He still has a “twinkle in his eyes.” Bishop Brookins, along with Bishop Talbot were honored at a special service that took place on Friday evening and each of them was presented the Legendary Leadership Award. The Reverend Derrick Scott, pastor of Greater St. James AME Church, Louisville preached a dynamic sermon for the Hour of Power. The Reverend Dr. Kenneth Robinson, Commissioner, Tennessee Department of Health and pastor of St. Andres AME Church, Memphis, Tennessee demonstrated homiletical brilliance and spiritual depth.
I led a workshop on AME polity and it was a spirited and engaging experience. One of the issues addressed was the Methodist tradition of, “open Communion,” which is always an interesting discussion because sometimes folks mix up the traditions of other denominations with what, we as African Methodists, believe and to what we adhere. Let me take a moment in the article below to make the distinction of and clarify what we believe and what is meant about “Open Communion.”
4. THE AFRICAN METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH TEACHES, “OPEN COMMUNION”:
Open Communion
The Definition of “Open Communion” is the practice whereby anyone who accepts the Jesus Christ as savior and are in love and harmony with his or her fellow human beings are allowed to take communion. More precisely, “Open Communion” allows those without baptism to take Communion. Open Communion is also referred to in Methodism as, “Open Table.” The Open communion is the opposite of “closed Communion,” where the Eucharist is reserved for those who have been baptized or are members of a particular church or denomination.
The Bible's teaching on "Communion," or the Lord's Supper, is found in I Corinthians 11:17- 34 and promotes "open" participation for believers. All those who are true believers in God through personal faith in Jesus Christ, are worthy to partake of the Lord's Supper by virtue of the fact they have accepted the death of Christ as payment for their sins
The African Methodist Episcopal Church’s invitation simply says, “You that do truly and earnestly repent of your sins, and are in love and charity with your neighbor, and intend to lead a new life, following the commandments of God, and walking henceforth in His holy ways, draw near with faith…” follows the Bible’s teaching found in I Corinthians. The invitation does not demand that one be a member of any particular denomination. In that ecclesiastical sense, it points to an “open” table” or open Communion!
Having said that, I believe that un-baptized persons who receive Communion should be encouraged to be baptized.” In Methodism in general, and in the African Methodist Episcopal Church in particular, a person should never be denied Communion if they affirm the conditions of the Invitation, “You that do truly and earnestly repent….”
Closed Communion
Definition for “Close communion is the practice whereby only those who claim to be saved, scripturally baptized and a member of that particular local church, the same denomination, or churches that follow a particular faith practice are allowed to take the Lord's Supper. Baptism is required to participate in Communion. Some churches say in their constitution or bylaws, “No un-baptized person shall be eligible to receive Holy Communion in this Church.” That is "closed Communion."
African Methodists do not subscribe to that notion and it cannot be found anywhere in The Doctrine and Discipline of the African Methodist Episcopal Church. That position has never been subscribed to by Methodists.
I will write more on this later.
5. LETTER TO THE EDITOR:
Dear Editor:
Why? That is the question that kept swirling in my head on Thursday, February 9, when I had the unique experience of standing alongside some of Los Angeles' leading religious leaders on a walk down "Skid Row" in the heart of downtown. The 90-minute tour and subsequent discussion, organized by Councilwoman Jan Perry (CD-9) and the Rev. Sylvester Laudermill of Ward A.M.E. Church, among others, opened my eyes to the way Los Angeles is failing its citizens. Why has this happened? Why isn't more being done? Why?
For me, the experience was:
Nauseating. The stench of desolation, the putrid smell of inhumane and unsanitary conditions, the plight of these persons left for dead, is more potent that the slightest drop of the Syrup of Ipecac. To see God's people suffering - too afraid to report crime, resigned to relieve themselves along the sidewalks and streets, themselves the victims and purveyors of crime and violence - left a sinking feeling in my stomach.
Heart-wrenching. For every cocaine addict or drug dealer, there was a businessman who fell on hard times or a proud woman who fell prey to an addiction to escape her circumstances. For every expectant mother refusing prenatal care, there was a woman struggling to provide for her family. For every mentally disturbed individual, there was a genius in need of genuine love and guidance. And for every child, barefoot and bereft of their being, there was the potential curer of cancer. There walked, crouched, laid and prayed some woman's son, some father's daughter and some brother's sister, niece or nephew. They, too, are American citizens; they, too, are guaranteed the unalienable rights and privileges of the same. And but for the grace of God, there went I.
Incomprehensible. Nearly 230 years after our nation was born, thousands of its citizens lay destitute, depressed and disenfranchised on the streets of one of its most celebrated cities. How the home of so many "stars" can turn their backs on this area as if it were a "black hole" is unconscionable. How one of the wealthiest cities and counties in America can treat its poor so poorly is simply unfathomable.
Unacceptable. Soaring high above this swath of the city - its white lights radiating the night sky - is US Bank Tower, the tallest building west of Chicago. On Thursday, President Bush announced that the federal government, in a well-orchestrated, textbook-perfect operation, foiled an al-Qaeda plot to destroy the structure with an aircraft. Yet, 1,000 feet below the Tower's peak and a few blocks away from its base, no government agency has been unable to address the breadth of the needs of its neediest citizens.
Following the walk, as I listened to each speaker address the assembly, I could not help be reminded that there is a "Balm in Gilead." As preachers, teachers and leaders in our respective churches, we are they who must spread the news that Jesus is the answer. Jesus' ministry was to the people of Jerusalem's Skid Row. And upon His return, his ministry would surely be to the Skid Rows of Los Angeles and other cities in our great nation.
In my mind's eye, I envision the Biblical man along the Jericho Road on Los Angeles' San Julian Street. On San Pedro Street was the woman with the issue of blood or the woman at the well. Sixth Street was home to the ten lepers and on Seventh Street sat the pool of Bethesda. Here in Los Angeles - away from the glitz and glitter of Beverly Hills and the wealth of the surrounding communities - is where Jesus' liberating Gospel is needed most.
It is high time that the Church stop "turning a deaf ear" to its parishioners of the streets, and band together to address this problem. Let us hold our elected officials accountable for the use of our tax dollars. Let us be responsible to the communities we serve. For Jesus said, "When I was hungry, did you feed me? When I was naked, did you clothe me? When I was in prison, did you visit me?"
Together, we can, as someone asserted, transform "Skid Row" into the "Hope District."
Respectfully submitted,
Rev. Kevin T. Taylor
(323) 509-8706
Editor’s note: The Rev. Kevin T. Taylor is an associate minister at Grant A.M.E. Church in Watts, under the pastoral leadership of the Rev. Leslie R. White.
6. SISTER MARY SCOTT’S NEPHEW RECEIVED AIR FORCE HONOR:
The 81st Regional Readiness Command bestowed honor on Mr. Tim Mercer, AMSA 153-G, Nashville, Tennessee as Maintenance Technician of the Year. He was presented the Superior Civilian Service Medal and a check for $1000.00.
Sister Mary Scott works in the AMEC Publisher’s Office.
7. CHURCHES IN THE WASHINGTON, DC AREA EXPERIENCING THEFTS AND BREAK-INS:
The Washington, DC newspapers report that thousands of dollars have been taken from Evangel Cathedral in Upper Marlboro and that Ebenezer A.M.E. Church in Fort Washington has been robbed twice in the past month. Authorities said the thieves are cutting phone lines to disable security alarms before they carry out their robberies.
8. THE PASTOR’S CORNER - FAN THE FLAME – STRENGTH:
7For God did not give us a spirit of timidity, but a spirit of power, of love and of self-discipline. 1You then, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus. (II Timothy 1: 7 & 2: 1)
Paul reminds young Timothy to and us “be strong.” Strength is defined in the dictionary as the capacity for exertion or endurance, power for resisting attack. The word provides another definition of strength for the Christian. First, you have the gift of power through the Holy Spirit who dwells in you (II Timothy 1: 7).
Second, now find your strength in the grace that is in Christ (II Timothy 2: 1). Our strength comes from the presence of God operating in us, and the grace of God we operate in. The Christian’s strength is God’s power operating in us, under God’s control of us.
Strength is Always Power under Control - Power with Purpose
Power without control is weakness. It’s often exhibited through non-productive and even destructive behaviors of individuals. But God’s power operating in us, under God’s control, gives us the capacity for exertion and endurance and power for resisting attack.
The Source of Our Strength
We draw our strength from God’s mighty power (Ephesians 6: 10). When King David’s generals, Joab and Abishai, found themselves surrounded in battle against the Ammonites, Joab said to his brother Abishai, “Be strong and let us fight bravely for our people and the cities of our God. The Lord will do what is good in His sight.” (II Samuel 10: 12) God is in the midst of our circumstances. God is in control. Our strength comes from knowing that He knows exactly where we are no matter how difficult the circumstance may be. And, He holds the outcomes in His mighty hand. Not even a sparrow falls without God’s knowledge (Matthew 10: 29). When faced with tests and trials remember, “The Lord will do what is good in His sight.”
When Rehoboam, the son of Solomon, and king of Israel was rejected as king by the northern tribes of the nation, he faced what seemed to be inevitable civil war. God gave this word to Rehoboam and those who would fight along his side, “Do not go up to fight against your brothers, the Israelites. Go home, every one of you, for this is my doing.” (I Kings 12: 24) Even the circumstances that appear to be greatest disappointments are simply God’s hidden appointments of love.
While living a life of faith, we will experience disappointments. Outcomes will often seem different from our expectations. A member of our congregation shared the story of how her car required repairs at a cost that would exceed her ability to pay. She decided to have one portion of the repairs done and run the car if possible until she gathered the funds to do the other vital repairs. She later received a phone call from the shop owner bringing more bad news. Her car was wrecked while being moved out of the garage. The bumper was now damaged. The shop owner apologized for the mishap and advised her that the repair of the bumper would cost several hundreds of dollars. He admitted that his shop was not equipped to do the body repair. But then, in an effort to make his customer whole, the shop owner struck a deal with the woman to complete the other vital repairs to the car at no costs if she would forgive him the costs of the bodywork. “AIN’T GOD GOOD?” We can hear God saying, “For this is my doing.” Even the circumstances that appear to be greatest disappointments are simply God’s hidden appointments of love.
1. In times of sorrow, He goes through our sorrows with us. (Isaiah 53:3)
2. Our concerns are His concerns, because we are the apples of His eye. (Zech 2: 8)
3. In times of great temptation, His power is made real in our weakness. (II Corinthians 12: 9)
4. Having money problems? He provides through His limitless riches. (Philippians 4: 19)
5. In times of loneliness and distress, He brings hope and encouragement. (II Thessalonians 2: 16-17)
The Christian’s strength is God’s power operating in us, under God’s control of us. “You then, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus.”
Pastor James M. Moody, Sr. Quinn Chapel AME Church, Chicago
9. PRAYER REQUEST FOR THE FAMILY OF THE PRESIDENT OF THE BALTIMORE ANNUAL CONFERENCE:
We solicit your prayers for the family of Sister Carlene E. Henry; a great Christian Lady who has gone from “labor to reward.”
She was a long time member of Bethel AME Church in Baltimore, Maryland, a very dedicated member of the Woman’s Missionary Society and the Lay Organization of The African Methodist Episcopal Church.
Sister Henry is a past president of the Baltimore Conference WMS and the wife of Brother J. Wayman Henry, the current president of The Baltimore Conference Lay Organization.
Carlene E. Henry
Family Visitation Hour
Sunday, February 12, 2006 1:00 P.M. – 5:00 p.m.
William C. Brown Community Funeral Home
1206 W. North Avenue
Baltimore, Maryland 21217
410-728-8422
Monday, February 13, 2006
Bethel A.M.E. Church 1300 Druid Hill Avenue Baltimore, Maryland 21217
Wake: 9:30 – 10:30 a.m. A.K.A. Ivy Services Funeral: 10:30 a.m. Internment: Garrison Forest Cemetery
10. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
On Monday, February 6th, at the age of 101, Fannie Ezelle Johnson Hill peacefully passed. She was the daughter of the Late Rt. Rev. William D. Johnson (Winifred), 42nd Elected and Consecrated Bishop of the African Methodist Episcopal Church.
Sister Hill was the widow of the late Rev. Dr. Ben H. Hill who was the pastor of several churches including Vernon A.M.E. Church. He was once the editor of the Christian Recorder and an Oklahoma Legislator.
Sister Hill was a life member of the Women's Missionary Society and once held the position of 12th Episcopal District Y.P.D. Director.
Services:
Monday, February 13, 2006 - 11:00 a.m.
Vernon African Methodist Episcopal Church
307-311 North Greenwood Avenue
Tulsa, Oklahoma 74120
(918)587-1428
Rev. Michelle K. T. Moulden, Pastor
Services entrusted to:
Jack's Memory Chapel
801 E. 36th Street
Tulsa, Oklahoma 74106
(918)428-4431
Condolences may be sent to her son:
Mr. George F. Hill
3004 North Cincinnati
Tulsa, Oklahoma 74106
11. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
From: 1wim@htcomp.net
Services for Bro. James Robinson, the father of the Rev. Patricia Smith, Pastor of Allen Chapel A.M.E. Church - Beaumont, Texas, will be held at 11:00 A.M., Saturday, February 11, 2006, at BrentwoodBaptist Church in Houston, Texas.
Brentwood Baptist Church
12033 Landmark Street
Houston, Texas 77045
Ph: (713)852-1400
Brother James Robinson's remains have been entrusted to the care of Pruitt’s Mortuary in Houston, Texas. A "Visitation" will be held at the Mortuary Friday Evening, February 10, 2006, from 6:00 P.M. - 8:00 P.M.
Pruitt's Mortuary
7518 North Main Street
Houston, Texas 77051
Ph: (713)864-2609
Fax: (713) 864-4752
Condolences may be sent to:
The Rev. Patricia W. Smith
4323 Avenue K
Galveston, Texas 77550
Ph: (409) 762-5880
Please remember the family in your prayers.
12. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
The passing of Mrs. Ida Lipscomb, spouse of The Reverend Leon Lipscomb recently retired pastor of Allen African Methodist Episcopal Church, Washington, DC.
Arrangements are pending.
13. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
From: dareddick@centurytel.net
Services for Brother Rose Scott, the father of Mrs. Vicki Scott Perkins and the father-in-law of Reverend S.R. Perkins, Pastor of Stringer Street A.M.E. Church, Dothan, Alabama.
Service Arrangements:
Tuesday, February 14, 2006
1:00 PM
Southside Church of Christ
212 Ellis Street
Enterprise, Alabama 36330
Brother Rose Scott's remains have been entrusted to:
Sconiers Funeral Home
512 West Watts Street
Enterprise, Alabama 36330
Phone: (334) 347-2371
Condolences may be sent to:
Mrs. Vicki Scott Perkins
103 Virginia Street
Enterprise, Alabama 36330
Phone: (334) 393-8241
Please remember the family in your prayers.
Allie Bell-Reddick
South Alabama Conference
Dothan-Eufaula District
14. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT ANNOUNCEMENTS PROVIDED BY:
Bishop Carolyn Tyler Guidry, Chair
Commission on Social Action Clergy Family Information Center
Mrs. Ora L. Easley - Administrator Email: Amespouses1@aol.com
(Nashville, Tennessee Contact) Phone: (615) 837-9736 Fax: (615) 833-3781
(Memphis, Tennessee Contact) (901) 578-4554 (Phone & Fax)
Please remember these families in your prayers.
15. CONDOLENCES TO THE BEREAVED FROM THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER:
The Chair of the Commission on Publications, the Right Reverend Gregory G. M. Ingram; 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.
The Reverend Dr. Johnny Barbour, Jr., Publisher
The Reverend Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III, Editor
1. MESSAGE FROM THE RIGHT REVEREND WILFRED J. MESSIAH CONCERNING THE GLOBAL DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL:
TO: The Bishops, Supervisors, General, and Connectional Officers of the African Methodist Episcopal Church -
The Executive Board of the Global Development Council Will Meet On March 13 -14 2006 in Port-of-Spain, Trinidad, 16th Episcopal District. The Rt. Rev. Carolyn Tyler-Guidry is the host bishop.
Obtain hotel and air travel information by contacting Presiding Elder Wayne Anthony who can be contacted at ant.marine_1@yahoo.com
Please note that this is an Executive Board Meeting as per the Doctrine and Discipline of the African Methodist Episcopal Church, page 263, Item 4. Observers are welcomed to attend.
Respectfully,
Bishop Wilfred J. Messiah
Chair, Global Development Council
2. SIMULTANEOUS CHRISTIAN EDUCATION DAY IN THE SEVENTH EPISCOPAL DISTRICT WILL BE HELD ON MARCH 4, 2006:
Twelve Courses in Six Locations!
9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
New Testament & AME Polity 1
Mt. Carmel AME Church - 1059 Old Black Oak Rd, Moncks Corner, SC 29461
The Reverend Remus Harper, Pastor
Interpersonal Skills & AME Liturgy and Worship
Mt. Zion AME Church - 1305 East Cheves Street, Florence, SC 29506
The Reverend Julius H. McAllister
Effective Teaching Methods & AME History
Emmanuel AME Church - 2130 Barhamville Road, Columbia, SC 29204
The Reverend Timothy Cokley
AME Articles of Religion & Introduction to Christian Education
Emmanuel AME Church - 110 Calhoun Street, Charleston, SC 29401
The Reverend Levern Witherspoon
Old Testament & Historical Foundation of Christian Education
Mt. Carmel AME Church -209 Mount Carmel Church Rd, Abbeville, SC 29644
The Reverend Hannie D. Milling, Jr., Pastor
Religious Pluralism & Christian Stewardship
Williams Chapel AME Church - 1198 Glover Street, Orangeburg, SC 29115
The Reverend Dr. Juenarrl Keith, Pastor
Registration: Adults $25.00
Come join us for a day of learning and exploration
For more information, please call the Episcopal Office -803-935-0500 ext. 106
Submitted to the Christian Recorder by Kabrina Bass –
Christian Education Administrator,
Seventh Episcopal District –
Email: basskabrina@aol.com or kabrinab@amec7thdist.org
The Rt. Reverend Preston W. Williams, II, Presiding Prelate
Mother Wilma D. Webb-Williams, Episcopal Supervisor
Dr. Allen Parrott, Christian Education Director –
Dr. Juenarrl Keith, Christian Education Dean –
Dr. Willie J. Heggins, Asst. Dean/Administrator
3. THE EDITOR’S CORNER:
The editor has been busy. In the recent weeks I traveled to Birmingham, Alabama and preached at the Evangelism Meeting and then to Cincinnati to be with the Women Missionary Society. Last Monday, Dr. Johnny Barbour, AMEC Publisher and I traveled to Atlanta, Georgia to be the leadership of the Turner Theological Seminary Alumni Association, as they were getting ready for Founder’s Day. The Turner Alumni leadership is dedicated and they were wrapping up plans for the Founder’s Day celebration. I preached yesterday at St. John AME Church in Montgomery, Alabama. What a church and what a great ministry provided by the Reverend James E. Arnell and the First Family, wife, Arnetta and daughter, Theress. The church leadership and congregation exuded warmth and spiritual energy. The AME Church is alive and St. John AME is alive. Two persons united with the congregation yesterday.
I was the Founder’s Day speaker. The sanctuary was full. It is evident that the Trustees are doing their work. St. John AME has to be one of the prettiest churches in Montgomery. The facility makes on e proud to be an AME.
The worship service was spiritual and uplifting from beginning to end. The combined choir was awesome and the children’s presentation was inspiring. As I travel around the Connection, it is refreshing to see healthy congregations and inspiring leadership; that’s what I saw at St. John. St. John Montgomery, Alabama has it going on!
Last week, I had an opportunity to lead a workshop on Friday morning for the 13th Episcopal District Founder’s Day that was held at Greater Bethel AME Church, Nashville. Bishop Vashti Murphy McKenzie is the presiding prelate and the Reverend Jay Broadnax is the pastor of Greater Bethel. The Founder’s Day Program was a learning, spiritual and inspirational venue. Dr. Dennis Dickerson, Executive Director, Department of Research and Scholarship and the Editor of The A.M.E. Church Review, gave an awesome presentation on the “Church’s Role in Public Policy form a Historical Perspective.”
It was inspirational because four bishops were present during the Founder’s Day celebration. Bishop Carolyn Tyler Guidry, presiding prelate of the 16th Episcopal District was the facilitator for the Presiding Elders’ Retreat. Bishop H. Hartford Brookins gave a presentation on “ministry to the local congregation and to the community.” He still has a “twinkle in his eyes.” Bishop Brookins, along with Bishop Talbot were honored at a special service that took place on Friday evening and each of them was presented the Legendary Leadership Award. The Reverend Derrick Scott, pastor of Greater St. James AME Church, Louisville preached a dynamic sermon for the Hour of Power. The Reverend Dr. Kenneth Robinson, Commissioner, Tennessee Department of Health and pastor of St. Andres AME Church, Memphis, Tennessee demonstrated homiletical brilliance and spiritual depth.
I led a workshop on AME polity and it was a spirited and engaging experience. One of the issues addressed was the Methodist tradition of, “open Communion,” which is always an interesting discussion because sometimes folks mix up the traditions of other denominations with what, we as African Methodists, believe and to what we adhere. Let me take a moment in the article below to make the distinction of and clarify what we believe and what is meant about “Open Communion.”
4. THE AFRICAN METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH TEACHES, “OPEN COMMUNION”:
Open Communion
The Definition of “Open Communion” is the practice whereby anyone who accepts the Jesus Christ as savior and are in love and harmony with his or her fellow human beings are allowed to take communion. More precisely, “Open Communion” allows those without baptism to take Communion. Open Communion is also referred to in Methodism as, “Open Table.” The Open communion is the opposite of “closed Communion,” where the Eucharist is reserved for those who have been baptized or are members of a particular church or denomination.
The Bible's teaching on "Communion," or the Lord's Supper, is found in I Corinthians 11:17- 34 and promotes "open" participation for believers. All those who are true believers in God through personal faith in Jesus Christ, are worthy to partake of the Lord's Supper by virtue of the fact they have accepted the death of Christ as payment for their sins
The African Methodist Episcopal Church’s invitation simply says, “You that do truly and earnestly repent of your sins, and are in love and charity with your neighbor, and intend to lead a new life, following the commandments of God, and walking henceforth in His holy ways, draw near with faith…” follows the Bible’s teaching found in I Corinthians. The invitation does not demand that one be a member of any particular denomination. In that ecclesiastical sense, it points to an “open” table” or open Communion!
Having said that, I believe that un-baptized persons who receive Communion should be encouraged to be baptized.” In Methodism in general, and in the African Methodist Episcopal Church in particular, a person should never be denied Communion if they affirm the conditions of the Invitation, “You that do truly and earnestly repent….”
Closed Communion
Definition for “Close communion is the practice whereby only those who claim to be saved, scripturally baptized and a member of that particular local church, the same denomination, or churches that follow a particular faith practice are allowed to take the Lord's Supper. Baptism is required to participate in Communion. Some churches say in their constitution or bylaws, “No un-baptized person shall be eligible to receive Holy Communion in this Church.” That is "closed Communion."
African Methodists do not subscribe to that notion and it cannot be found anywhere in The Doctrine and Discipline of the African Methodist Episcopal Church. That position has never been subscribed to by Methodists.
I will write more on this later.
5. LETTER TO THE EDITOR:
Dear Editor:
Why? That is the question that kept swirling in my head on Thursday, February 9, when I had the unique experience of standing alongside some of Los Angeles' leading religious leaders on a walk down "Skid Row" in the heart of downtown. The 90-minute tour and subsequent discussion, organized by Councilwoman Jan Perry (CD-9) and the Rev. Sylvester Laudermill of Ward A.M.E. Church, among others, opened my eyes to the way Los Angeles is failing its citizens. Why has this happened? Why isn't more being done? Why?
For me, the experience was:
Nauseating. The stench of desolation, the putrid smell of inhumane and unsanitary conditions, the plight of these persons left for dead, is more potent that the slightest drop of the Syrup of Ipecac. To see God's people suffering - too afraid to report crime, resigned to relieve themselves along the sidewalks and streets, themselves the victims and purveyors of crime and violence - left a sinking feeling in my stomach.
Heart-wrenching. For every cocaine addict or drug dealer, there was a businessman who fell on hard times or a proud woman who fell prey to an addiction to escape her circumstances. For every expectant mother refusing prenatal care, there was a woman struggling to provide for her family. For every mentally disturbed individual, there was a genius in need of genuine love and guidance. And for every child, barefoot and bereft of their being, there was the potential curer of cancer. There walked, crouched, laid and prayed some woman's son, some father's daughter and some brother's sister, niece or nephew. They, too, are American citizens; they, too, are guaranteed the unalienable rights and privileges of the same. And but for the grace of God, there went I.
Incomprehensible. Nearly 230 years after our nation was born, thousands of its citizens lay destitute, depressed and disenfranchised on the streets of one of its most celebrated cities. How the home of so many "stars" can turn their backs on this area as if it were a "black hole" is unconscionable. How one of the wealthiest cities and counties in America can treat its poor so poorly is simply unfathomable.
Unacceptable. Soaring high above this swath of the city - its white lights radiating the night sky - is US Bank Tower, the tallest building west of Chicago. On Thursday, President Bush announced that the federal government, in a well-orchestrated, textbook-perfect operation, foiled an al-Qaeda plot to destroy the structure with an aircraft. Yet, 1,000 feet below the Tower's peak and a few blocks away from its base, no government agency has been unable to address the breadth of the needs of its neediest citizens.
Following the walk, as I listened to each speaker address the assembly, I could not help be reminded that there is a "Balm in Gilead." As preachers, teachers and leaders in our respective churches, we are they who must spread the news that Jesus is the answer. Jesus' ministry was to the people of Jerusalem's Skid Row. And upon His return, his ministry would surely be to the Skid Rows of Los Angeles and other cities in our great nation.
In my mind's eye, I envision the Biblical man along the Jericho Road on Los Angeles' San Julian Street. On San Pedro Street was the woman with the issue of blood or the woman at the well. Sixth Street was home to the ten lepers and on Seventh Street sat the pool of Bethesda. Here in Los Angeles - away from the glitz and glitter of Beverly Hills and the wealth of the surrounding communities - is where Jesus' liberating Gospel is needed most.
It is high time that the Church stop "turning a deaf ear" to its parishioners of the streets, and band together to address this problem. Let us hold our elected officials accountable for the use of our tax dollars. Let us be responsible to the communities we serve. For Jesus said, "When I was hungry, did you feed me? When I was naked, did you clothe me? When I was in prison, did you visit me?"
Together, we can, as someone asserted, transform "Skid Row" into the "Hope District."
Respectfully submitted,
Rev. Kevin T. Taylor
(323) 509-8706
Editor’s note: The Rev. Kevin T. Taylor is an associate minister at Grant A.M.E. Church in Watts, under the pastoral leadership of the Rev. Leslie R. White.
6. SISTER MARY SCOTT’S NEPHEW RECEIVED AIR FORCE HONOR:
The 81st Regional Readiness Command bestowed honor on Mr. Tim Mercer, AMSA 153-G, Nashville, Tennessee as Maintenance Technician of the Year. He was presented the Superior Civilian Service Medal and a check for $1000.00.
Sister Mary Scott works in the AMEC Publisher’s Office.
7. CHURCHES IN THE WASHINGTON, DC AREA EXPERIENCING THEFTS AND BREAK-INS:
The Washington, DC newspapers report that thousands of dollars have been taken from Evangel Cathedral in Upper Marlboro and that Ebenezer A.M.E. Church in Fort Washington has been robbed twice in the past month. Authorities said the thieves are cutting phone lines to disable security alarms before they carry out their robberies.
8. THE PASTOR’S CORNER - FAN THE FLAME – STRENGTH:
7For God did not give us a spirit of timidity, but a spirit of power, of love and of self-discipline. 1You then, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus. (II Timothy 1: 7 & 2: 1)
Paul reminds young Timothy to and us “be strong.” Strength is defined in the dictionary as the capacity for exertion or endurance, power for resisting attack. The word provides another definition of strength for the Christian. First, you have the gift of power through the Holy Spirit who dwells in you (II Timothy 1: 7).
Second, now find your strength in the grace that is in Christ (II Timothy 2: 1). Our strength comes from the presence of God operating in us, and the grace of God we operate in. The Christian’s strength is God’s power operating in us, under God’s control of us.
Strength is Always Power under Control - Power with Purpose
Power without control is weakness. It’s often exhibited through non-productive and even destructive behaviors of individuals. But God’s power operating in us, under God’s control, gives us the capacity for exertion and endurance and power for resisting attack.
The Source of Our Strength
We draw our strength from God’s mighty power (Ephesians 6: 10). When King David’s generals, Joab and Abishai, found themselves surrounded in battle against the Ammonites, Joab said to his brother Abishai, “Be strong and let us fight bravely for our people and the cities of our God. The Lord will do what is good in His sight.” (II Samuel 10: 12) God is in the midst of our circumstances. God is in control. Our strength comes from knowing that He knows exactly where we are no matter how difficult the circumstance may be. And, He holds the outcomes in His mighty hand. Not even a sparrow falls without God’s knowledge (Matthew 10: 29). When faced with tests and trials remember, “The Lord will do what is good in His sight.”
When Rehoboam, the son of Solomon, and king of Israel was rejected as king by the northern tribes of the nation, he faced what seemed to be inevitable civil war. God gave this word to Rehoboam and those who would fight along his side, “Do not go up to fight against your brothers, the Israelites. Go home, every one of you, for this is my doing.” (I Kings 12: 24) Even the circumstances that appear to be greatest disappointments are simply God’s hidden appointments of love.
While living a life of faith, we will experience disappointments. Outcomes will often seem different from our expectations. A member of our congregation shared the story of how her car required repairs at a cost that would exceed her ability to pay. She decided to have one portion of the repairs done and run the car if possible until she gathered the funds to do the other vital repairs. She later received a phone call from the shop owner bringing more bad news. Her car was wrecked while being moved out of the garage. The bumper was now damaged. The shop owner apologized for the mishap and advised her that the repair of the bumper would cost several hundreds of dollars. He admitted that his shop was not equipped to do the body repair. But then, in an effort to make his customer whole, the shop owner struck a deal with the woman to complete the other vital repairs to the car at no costs if she would forgive him the costs of the bodywork. “AIN’T GOD GOOD?” We can hear God saying, “For this is my doing.” Even the circumstances that appear to be greatest disappointments are simply God’s hidden appointments of love.
1. In times of sorrow, He goes through our sorrows with us. (Isaiah 53:3)
2. Our concerns are His concerns, because we are the apples of His eye. (Zech 2: 8)
3. In times of great temptation, His power is made real in our weakness. (II Corinthians 12: 9)
4. Having money problems? He provides through His limitless riches. (Philippians 4: 19)
5. In times of loneliness and distress, He brings hope and encouragement. (II Thessalonians 2: 16-17)
The Christian’s strength is God’s power operating in us, under God’s control of us. “You then, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus.”
Pastor James M. Moody, Sr. Quinn Chapel AME Church, Chicago
9. PRAYER REQUEST FOR THE FAMILY OF THE PRESIDENT OF THE BALTIMORE ANNUAL CONFERENCE:
We solicit your prayers for the family of Sister Carlene E. Henry; a great Christian Lady who has gone from “labor to reward.”
She was a long time member of Bethel AME Church in Baltimore, Maryland, a very dedicated member of the Woman’s Missionary Society and the Lay Organization of The African Methodist Episcopal Church.
Sister Henry is a past president of the Baltimore Conference WMS and the wife of Brother J. Wayman Henry, the current president of The Baltimore Conference Lay Organization.
Carlene E. Henry
Family Visitation Hour
Sunday, February 12, 2006 1:00 P.M. – 5:00 p.m.
William C. Brown Community Funeral Home
1206 W. North Avenue
Baltimore, Maryland 21217
410-728-8422
Monday, February 13, 2006
Bethel A.M.E. Church 1300 Druid Hill Avenue Baltimore, Maryland 21217
Wake: 9:30 – 10:30 a.m. A.K.A. Ivy Services Funeral: 10:30 a.m. Internment: Garrison Forest Cemetery
10. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
On Monday, February 6th, at the age of 101, Fannie Ezelle Johnson Hill peacefully passed. She was the daughter of the Late Rt. Rev. William D. Johnson (Winifred), 42nd Elected and Consecrated Bishop of the African Methodist Episcopal Church.
Sister Hill was the widow of the late Rev. Dr. Ben H. Hill who was the pastor of several churches including Vernon A.M.E. Church. He was once the editor of the Christian Recorder and an Oklahoma Legislator.
Sister Hill was a life member of the Women's Missionary Society and once held the position of 12th Episcopal District Y.P.D. Director.
Services:
Monday, February 13, 2006 - 11:00 a.m.
Vernon African Methodist Episcopal Church
307-311 North Greenwood Avenue
Tulsa, Oklahoma 74120
(918)587-1428
Rev. Michelle K. T. Moulden, Pastor
Services entrusted to:
Jack's Memory Chapel
801 E. 36th Street
Tulsa, Oklahoma 74106
(918)428-4431
Condolences may be sent to her son:
Mr. George F. Hill
3004 North Cincinnati
Tulsa, Oklahoma 74106
11. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
From: 1wim@htcomp.net
Services for Bro. James Robinson, the father of the Rev. Patricia Smith, Pastor of Allen Chapel A.M.E. Church - Beaumont, Texas, will be held at 11:00 A.M., Saturday, February 11, 2006, at BrentwoodBaptist Church in Houston, Texas.
Brentwood Baptist Church
12033 Landmark Street
Houston, Texas 77045
Ph: (713)852-1400
Brother James Robinson's remains have been entrusted to the care of Pruitt’s Mortuary in Houston, Texas. A "Visitation" will be held at the Mortuary Friday Evening, February 10, 2006, from 6:00 P.M. - 8:00 P.M.
Pruitt's Mortuary
7518 North Main Street
Houston, Texas 77051
Ph: (713)864-2609
Fax: (713) 864-4752
Condolences may be sent to:
The Rev. Patricia W. Smith
4323 Avenue K
Galveston, Texas 77550
Ph: (409) 762-5880
Please remember the family in your prayers.
12. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
The passing of Mrs. Ida Lipscomb, spouse of The Reverend Leon Lipscomb recently retired pastor of Allen African Methodist Episcopal Church, Washington, DC.
Arrangements are pending.
13. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
From: dareddick@centurytel.net
Services for Brother Rose Scott, the father of Mrs. Vicki Scott Perkins and the father-in-law of Reverend S.R. Perkins, Pastor of Stringer Street A.M.E. Church, Dothan, Alabama.
Service Arrangements:
Tuesday, February 14, 2006
1:00 PM
Southside Church of Christ
212 Ellis Street
Enterprise, Alabama 36330
Brother Rose Scott's remains have been entrusted to:
Sconiers Funeral Home
512 West Watts Street
Enterprise, Alabama 36330
Phone: (334) 347-2371
Condolences may be sent to:
Mrs. Vicki Scott Perkins
103 Virginia Street
Enterprise, Alabama 36330
Phone: (334) 393-8241
Please remember the family in your prayers.
Allie Bell-Reddick
South Alabama Conference
Dothan-Eufaula District
14. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT ANNOUNCEMENTS PROVIDED BY:
Bishop Carolyn Tyler Guidry, Chair
Commission on Social Action Clergy Family Information Center
Mrs. Ora L. Easley - Administrator Email: Amespouses1@aol.com
(Nashville, Tennessee Contact) Phone: (615) 837-9736 Fax: (615) 833-3781
(Memphis, Tennessee Contact) (901) 578-4554 (Phone & Fax)
Please remember these families in your prayers.
15. CONDOLENCES TO THE BEREAVED FROM THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER:
The Chair of the Commission on Publications, the Right Reverend Gregory G. M. Ingram; 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.
