THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER ONLINE ENGLISH EDITION (11/9/06)

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. A WORD FROM THE EDITOR:

Editor Sydnor and the Reverend Charlotte Sydnor are pleased to announce that their daughter, Attorney Gloria Lynn Sydnor Smith will be preaching her “trial sermon” at 5 p.m. on Sunday at Quinn Chapel AME Church, Cincinnati, Ohio where the Reverend Dr. Frederick Wright is the pastor. We will be traveling to Cincinnati to be a "witness" and we are so proud of our daughter and especially for her commitment to the AME Church. She is married to Mr. Antoine Smith who is a student at Northern Kentucky University and is one of the assistant basketball coaches for the University. They have four beautiful children; three sons and one grand-daughter.

2. READER RESPONSE TO EDITORIAL AND OTHER ISSUES:

- To the Editor

I want you to know that I enjoy The Christian Recorder! Excellent job communicating the relevant, yet religious talks of our time and community.

I wanted to respond to the Decalogue editorial. I would like share a word from Generation X.

I challenge those members of our denomination who love the Decalogue so much to live the Decalogue. It is clear from the direct descendant of Richard Allen, who I am humbled to pastor, that Bishop Allen was attempting to address the behavior/morals of the Africans in America during the origin of our Church. Many of our beloved members ought to read the book, Righteous Discontent. At that time we know that equality for Africans in America was challenged by the attitude of "Africans as animals." Bishop Allen was attempting to change the perspective of culture toward Africans for the struggle of equal rights.

Generation X and others behind us didn't come out of the womb knowing how to fight pastors, lie, cut our neighbors down; we learned that by watching the baby bombers and the generations before. Those generations, which have repeated the Decalogue for 50 years, yet behave no differently. If you don't believe me, go to an official board meeting or church conference and see if there is a Decalogue abiding in the place.

You know what is funny; that the Decalogue suggests putting God before all else... even tradition. It appears to me, that many in our denomination are attempting to make our tradition a God which is idolatry. The Decalogue is powerful, yet it is not God. Maybe we should not point to the Decalogue but to the God of the Decalogue.

Perhaps, we would see a WORTH-Ship of God taking place on Sunday mornings.

Richard Allen Washington
First AMEC, Athens GA

3. AME TRIVIA COLUMN:

By Stephen A. Green

I am sorry to announce that there was no winner for the AME Trivia Question. The correct answers appear below. Answers to the questions can be verified in The Upward Journey, authored by Jeanette Johns.

a. Who was Bishop Nichols’ father?
Answer: The Rev. Lewis Ruffin Nichols

b. Where and when did Bishop Nichols attend his first General Conference?
Answer: 1908, Norfolk, Virginia

c. Where did Bishop Nichols first attend school?
Answer: Avery Normal Institute

d. Bishop Nichols was an assistant organist at what church?
Answer: Morris Brown in Charleston, South Carolina

e. What college did Bishop Nichols attend?
Answer: Howard University

4. A NOTE FROM THE RIGHT REVEREND SARAH DAVIS:

The 18th District's Blessing of the 2006 Toyota Prado, metallic beige, automatic, 4X4 is now at the Episcopal Residence, but not for long because we are putting it on the road. We are driving to Mohales' Hoek for our last Annual Conference of this year; the Lesotho Annual Conference.

Please be in prayer for the Lesotho Annual Conference and for all who are driving to Mohales' Hoek. Also, join us in praise and thanksgiving to God for all He continues to do for the 18th Episcopal District!!

Bishop Sarah

5. THE SEVENTH EPISCOPAL DISTRICT’S 2006 NORTHEAST ANNUAL CONFERENCE WAS HELD AT MT. ZION AME CHURCH, FLORENCE SOUTH CAROLINA:

From Monday August 28th to Friday September 1st the Seventh District of the African Methodist Episcopal Church, which encompasses the entire state of South Carolina, convened in Florence, SC for the second of its 2006 annual conferences entitled The Northeast Conference. This week long event was held at Mt. Zion AME Church located at 1305 East Cheves Street in Florence, SC.The Northeast Conference is comprised of the Sumter, Marion and Florence-Dillon Districts. This 115th session makes it the third oldest and its approximate 25,000 local members makes it the third largest of the six AME annual conferences held in the state of South Carolina.

Friday and Saturday August 25th and 26th over 450 young persons, chaperones and volunteers gathered at Sneed Middle School in Florence, SC for the ‘Youth Summit’ which was conducted under the direction of Sister Kabrina Bass, Seventh District Christian Education Administrator; Reverend T. A. Johnson, Conference Christian Education Director; Sister Omijean Timmons, Florence-Dillion District Christian Education Director; Sister Phyllis Reaves, Marion District Christian Education Director; Brother W. M. Jefferson, Sumter District Christian Education Director; Rev. Herbert L. Temoney, Dean of Florence-Dillion Christian Education; and many others who instructed children from ages six to fifteen years old about Salvation, the Scriptures, Church Etiquette, the Parts of the Church, AME History, Manhood, Womanhood, the Bishops and Episcopal Districts of the Church; and also led the members of the Summit in praising God through Praise Teams, Mime Ministries and Living History.

Bishop Preston W. Williams II, the presiding prelate of the Seventh Episcopal District of the AME Church and President of the global Council of Bishops, dined and fellowshipped with the youth, reinforcing his commitment to make a difference in the lives of our young people.

Sunday August 27th, the 115th session of the Northeast Annual Conference began with the pre-conference pomp and pageantry of the Debutantes and Masters Ceremony (DMC) involving a celebration of Christian manhood and womanhood. The elegantly attired young people from across the Conference were honored for their many volunteer hours of community, church and school service; and thanks were extended to Sister Paula Outlaw, DMC Conference Commissioner and Reverend Charles Singleton, DMC Conference Associate Commissioner, and their dedicated committee members for a job well done.

The Women's Missionary Society, under the supervision of Dr. Wilma Delores Webb-Williams, Episcopal Supervisor, and Sister Henrietta B. Temoney, Northeast Conference (interim) WMS President, conducted a detailed business session focused on goals for the 2006-2007 conference year which included: Education, Growth and Expansion, Legacy and Destiny, and Health and Wellness, and also a sponsored annual WMS luncheon at the Florence Civil Center.

Monday August 28th the Sons of Allen gave us an evening of spiritual empowerment which included the Reverend Johnny Coe of St. Matthew AME Church in Hamer, SC who delivered a powerful sermon entitled, "Surrounded by God" (Psalms 125).

Tuesday morning August 29th Mount Zion AME Church hosted an overwhelming crowd at the opening session of the 115th Northeast South Carolina Annual Conference which convened with Reverend T. E. Shield Sr. as Worship Leader. The processional consisted of Mt. Zion's choir, Licentiates, Deacons, Elders, Presiding Elders, General Officer George Flowers, Bishops F. C, James, Z. Grady and our Presiding Bishop, The Right Reverend Preston Warren Williams II. Reverend Archie S. Temoney delivered an electrifying annual sermon entitled, "Let Me Tell You What the Lord Has Done," and the opening ceremony was culminated by the Holy Communion Services with Bishop Preston W. Williams II as Chief Celebrant.

A re-organization of the 115th session of the Northeast Annual Conference was held and Reverend R. R. Hooper was selected as the Conference Secretary and Reverend Berletha Taylor as Assistant Secretary. The Presiding Elders presented their recommendations for various committees for the Annual Conference session along with the boundaries of the conference for all Lay Delegates and Ministers. The Sumter District presented their pastors and delegates who presented their annual reports on Tuesday afternoon.

Tuesday evening the Women’s Missionary Society's ‘Night in Mission’ utilized the theme, "Maintaining, Improving and Promoting Public Education for the Twenty-First Century Church," and the WMS's awesome choir set the tone for an evening of fellowship with the Introit, "We Have Come into this House.” The message by Sister Bernice D. Sander, Seventh Episcopal District Women's Missionary Society President, was well composed and beautifully delivered, and her words of praise and encouragement received special recognition from our WMS Supervisor Dr. Wilma Delores Williams.

The work of the conference continued on Wednesday when the Sumter and Marion Districts presented their annual reports. Wednesday's mid-day sermon was delivered by Reverend Frank Moses of the Palmetto Conference and was entitled, "God Answers Prayer" (Exodus 3: 7-8).

Wednesday evening the Young People and Children's Division, under the leadership of Sister Connie Ford and her cabinet, utilizing the theme, "Being Original: God Knows My Name,” presented a concert featuring the Incredible Voices of Praise, "Let everything That Has Breath Praise Ye the Lord.”

Thursday morning Sister Terry Jones Davenport and Brother Arnold Collins II provided much needed information about Medicare Part D. The Christian Education Department under the direction of Sister Kabrina Bass, illuminated several objectives through workshop presenters Doctor Willie J. Heggins II, Assistant Dean / Administrator of Christian Education, who presented a workshop on Prostate Cancer, and Sister A. Marie Goff, WMS Health Coordinator, who presented a workshop on Cervical Cancer. Following those presentations Doctor Charles E. Young, President of Allen University, delivered the Thursday mid-day service sermon entitled, "On Vacation with Jesus;” at which point the Northeast Annual Conference collected over $50,000 dollars for Allen University.

Thursday’s Lay evening was filled with the Holy Spirit and praising of God to the utmost as Dr. Maggie Glover, the keynote speaker, spoke from the theme, "Laity Sowing Seeds Beyond the Walls: An Agenda of Ministry and Service.”

The following persons retired from this 115th session of the Northeast Annual Conference: Presiding Elder Theron E. Shield, Reverend Charles Singleton, Reverend James W. Brown Jr., and Reverend Leroy Fred. The Reverend Richard O. Ransom transferred from the First Episcopal District to the Seventh Episcopal District, and was welcomed by Bishop Williams and the Northeast Annual Conference. The Conference praised God for the fact that no deaths were reported among the annual conference members. The character of the Northeast Conference’s Presiding Elders and ministers was passed, all Disciplinary Questions were read and answered positively, and the Board of Examiners recommended that all Itinerants remain in their respective classes, until all academic requirements are met.

Friday’s mid-day message was delivered by Dr. Harold Mayberry, President of the Episcopal Committee, and was entitled, "Help Is Available" (2 Samuel 5:6-7). Sister Paula Outlaw, Northeast Conference Church School Committee Superintendent, presented an inspiring, informative and educational workshop. The Closing Convocation’s message was delivered by Doctor Harold Mayberry and was entitled, “It’s Time for a Revolution: The Revolution is Designed to Keep Us from Forgetting God” (Deut. 6:10-13, 24-25).

In that the Reverend Julius H. McAllister and his lovely wife Sister Joan McAllister and the entire Mount Zion AME Church hosted the 115th Session of the Northeast South Carolina Annual Conference with such dignity and style, all who attended take this opportunity to salute and applaud them for a job well done! May God continue to shower his blessings upon us all. Bishop Preston Warren Williams II, operating under the power of the Holy Spirit, assigned pastors to each charge in the Northeast South Carolina Annual Conference. May we all continue to strive for excellence under the dynamic leadership of Bishop Preston Warren Williams II and Mother Wilma Delores Webb-Williams.

6. THIRTIETH ANNIVERSARY OF THE ARTISHIA AND FREDERICK JORDAN SCHOLARSHIP FUND:

*Jennifer Jordan

June 20, 2006 marked the thirtieth anniversary of the Artishia and Frederick Jordan Scholarship Fund. In June of 1976 during the Fortieth Quadrennial Session of the General Conference of the African Methodist Episcopal Church, Bishop Frederick Douglass Jordan, the 72nd Bishop of the Church, presented the President of Morris Brown, Dr. Robert Threatt, a generous gift of $250, 000. The money became the basis of a fund dedicated to the memory of Bishop Jordan’s deceased wife, Artishia Wilkerson Jordan, who died in 1974. In 1978 the Artishia Jordan Scholarship Fund was incorporated, and its title was changed to include the Bishop’s name after his death on December 16, 1979. Between 1976 and 2006, approximately 1,000 were awarded to students who have demonstrated financial need and exhibited academic potential, good character and an interest in community service.

The money for the scholarship was the last of a long list of gifts that Bishop Jordan had given to Morris Brown. He donated property to the college so that the rental income could be used to improve the library and provided funds to purchase 5,000 volumes on the history and culture of Black America. The name of the library was changed to the Jordan-Thomas Library to honor the parents of the bishop. Bishop Jordan also allowed Morris Brown to exhibit valuable artifacts and documents owned by the founder of the A.M.E. Church, Richard Allen, and provided a case in which to display them. One of these artifacts was borrowed and exhibited by the Smithsonian Museum in Washington.

The Bishop’s attachment to Morris Brown was not an abstract one. His father, Dock J. Jordan, was a graduate of another AME college, Allen University, and had passed the bar in South Carolina in 1892 (He was admitted to the Georgia bar in 1904). D. J. Jordan was recruited to come to Morris Brown in 1893 and served in a number of capacities over two separate periods of time--as a Professor of Science, Professor of Literature, Professor of Law, Professor of Mathematics and Vice President. It is during his second tenure at Morris Brown that Bishop Jordan was born in 1901. Bishop Jordan’s mother, Carrie J. Thomas, was an Atlantan who also had close ties to Morris Brown and the A.M.E. Church. Her father, Rev. Lawrence Thomas, is credited with the building of Big Bethel in Atlanta and was part of the group which purchased the land for Morris Brown College. At his death he bequeathed his library to the College.

There were other African-American institutions of higher education that Bishop Jordan could have dedicated his energy and resources. He had attended Howard University from 1918 to 1921 and his wife, Artishia, had graduated from that university in 1922. His father, D. J. Jordan had served as president of two A.M.E. colleges, Edward Waters and Kittrell. He had also been a professor at Shorter A.M.E. College, now a junior college; at North Carolina A and T; and at North Carolina Central in Durham. Anne W. Jordan, the first cousin of Bishop Jordan, was a professor at Wilberforce and a dean at Savannah State. The Jordan Agricultural School in Arthington, Liberia was named after the bishop who dedicated a great deal of his energy to supporting education in Africa.

Bishop Jordan himself was a lover of knowledge and the academic life. He left Howard University as a junior in 1921 and, answering a call to the ministry, enrolled in Northwestern University and Garrett Biblical Institute. At Northwestern he was an English major with minors in economics and Greek. He was simultaneously preparing himself for the ministry at Garrett. He graduated from Northwestern in 1924 and Garrett Biblical Institute, now Garrett Theological Seminary, in 1925. He did graduate work at both Northwestern and the University of Chicago. The Bishop was briefly president of Western College and a trustee at both Wilberforce and Western. In the early 1960s he served as president of Campbell College, an AME institution in Mississippi, but was harassed by local white authorities because of his fervent support of the civil rights movement in Mississippi. Campbell College was later merged with Jackson State.

A true Renaissance man Frederick Jordan made substantial contributions to both the AME church and to the civic life of his community and the nation. As pastors in churches in the Midwest and in Los Angeles he was noted for his ability to leave each congregation in good financial condition. In Los Angeles he was an active participant in the NAACP and served on the national board of CORE. Both as a pastor and as a bishop he was known as a fervent and militant advocate for civil rights. His wife Artishia from her early days as an undergraduate at Howard University until her death worked tirelessly for the YWCA and the AME Church. Both she and her husband were avid workers in the interdenominational movement which they saw as an effective instrument for social and religious change.

After an illustrious career in the AME church and after the death of his wife, Bishop Jordan sought a way to make a substantial and lasting contribution to Morris Brown, the place where his father began his long career in higher education. To make sure that the Jordan Scholarship Fund was successful he sought the help of a group of people who could provide dedicated and highly qualified help. The first board consisted of the bishop, treasurer; a cousin, Jefferson Jordan, president; his sister, Alice Jordan, secretary; the president of Morris Brown, Robert Threatt; and the Bishop of the Sixth Episcopal District, Bishop H. I. Bearden. Jefferson Jordan, a lawyer for the Wayne County Road Commission in Detroit, graduated from Wilberforce and the University of Michigan Law School. Alice Jordan, a graduate of Howard University during the thirties and a student of social work at both Atlanta University and Washington University in St. Louis, retired from a career in social work as Supervisor for Children’s Services in St. Louis. Dr. Jacqueline Jordan Irvine, former Candler Professor of Education at Emory University, joined the board at the death of the Bishop in 1979 and is its present President. Angela Jordan Davis, Professor of Law at American University in Washington D.C., is presently the Secretary-Treasurer and Kelli Irvine Neptune, attorney and former Trial Chief of the Public Defenders Office of Washington, D.C., is Assistant Secretary-Treasurer. Over the thirty years of the board’s existence the following bishops of the Sixth District of the African Methodist Episcopal Church succeeded Bishop Bearden in providing guidance and assistance: Bishops Frederick Talbot, John Hurst Adams, Donald Ming, Frank Cummings and William DeVeaux.

The Artishia and Frederick Jordan Scholarship Fund remains financially strong, and its board remains dedicated to the survival and continued growth of Morris Brown College. .

*Jennifer Jordan is professor in the Department of English, Howard University

7. SAGGING PANTS IS JUST PLAIN OUT:

*James B. Ewers, Jr. Ed.D

The problem of boys and young men wearing their pants below their waist appears to be more than just a fad. When we were young while growing up in different parts of the country, there were certain things that were just taboo, and one of those things was wearing your pants below your waist, as it was simply out of the question. As teenagers and young adults, we took pride in the way we looked. Even today with our extra pounds, we still want to look good in our clothes. I suspect the number one reason for our pants not dragging the ground was our parents. I can’t fathom leaving my house or coming into my house with my pants “saggin” and draggin”. I received my share of spankings but never for wearing my pants inappropriately. Another reason for not wearing our pants below our waist was the popular culture. Back in the day of no color televisions and chickens in the backyard there wasn’t the peer pressure that there is today. Can you imagine wearing your drooping pants with chickens roaming around in the backyard? I get just a little amused when I hear young people refer to “back in the day”. Their back in the day of ten or fifteen years ago consisted of color televisions and no chickens in the backyard. Finally there were social factors to consider. I don’t think girls would have taken too kindly to guys wearing their pants down to the ground. While Sean John and Tommy Hilfiger weren’t around, we were still quite conscious about a “look” that we wanted to convey.

Today, as I am about to enter my eating half price at restaurant days things are quite different. Young men have succumbed to the no rules dress code. This social phenomenon jump started by the hip hop culture has men behaving badly, at least from a clothing perspective. First off, the mantra for many young men is the bigger, the better. In other words, if your regular size is medium then why are you wearing an extra large shirt? If your waist size is 32 then why are you wearing size 38? Everything is simply hanging off of them. I have often wanted to ask one of the young hipsters, “Where are you hiding in those clothes”? Now when you combine the heavy gold jewelry many young men look as if they are carrying the weight of the world. A part of my exercise regimen is walking. Recently, I was in the mall and saw a young man who could barely walk because he wore his pants around his thighs. I just shook my head and wondered to myself is this the future? Because if it is, we’re in a whole heap of trouble. There are increasingly large numbers of young men, both black and white, whose lifestyles and decision making should be called into question. Oversized pants and undersized goals make for a bleak future. I am reminded of the expression, “if your mind can conceive it, your heart can believe it then you can achieve it”. Many of us old school guys think that the first part of the aforementioned statement is part of the problem. Many young men between the ages of 15-28 can’t conceive of success. It is simply not in their mindset to think that their futures can be bright. Television has only exacerbated the problem. They see rap and video stars parading around with their pants falling off of them and they believe that this is reality. What kind of job interview can you go to wearing jeans five sizes too big and when you don’t get the job, you blame “the man” or the “system”. If you are a young woman reading this piece date someone who keeps his pants up, walks right and treats you with dignity and respect and not like a garden tool. Unfortunately, too many women find oversized clothes wearing men attractive. An even sadder scenario is that normal guys are being left out of the social loop. If you are a young male who wears his clothes properly and addresses women with respect then you may be in the minority and left sitting at home. My brothers, don’t despair as you will win out in the end because these same women will come to you because they will finally get tired of the abuse.

In spite of this dismal forecast, we still must be proactive and find some solutions. We must use our places of worship to help to provide HT (home training) lessons for our young men. We must teach them how to talk to other adults and children without swearing and otherwise being incoherent. In addition, we can sponsor dress for success seminars so that young men can become acquainted with suits, shirts and ties. Understand that the wing tip shoe or the penny loafer can replace Timberland boots. Our fraternities, sororities and social clubs must get serious if we are to save this next generation. In some ways, we must meet them on their own terms. Music is a compelling force in the lives of the young. Let us sponsor some contests that also have some life lessons attached to them. As adults, we have to also think about our own rationale self interests. Many of us can’t retire because of the young men and women that we see each day acting irresponsibly. Would a survey show that more jails than schools are being built across the country? I am afraid of the answer. The exterior problem of sagging pants is only part of the challenge. The bigger problem is turning hopelessness into hope. We have got to speak up and speak out unless we want a generation of young men with no direction and with no purpose.

*James B. Ewers, Jr. Ed.D is Associate Dean for Student Affairs at Miami University Middletown and is a member of Bethel AME Church, Middletown, Ohio

8. SISTER JACKIE WEARY ELECTED LAY PRESIDENT OF THE NORTHEAST OKLAHOMA ANNUAL CONFERENCE (12TH EPISCOPAL DISTRICT):

The Central Northeast Oklahoma Conference Annual Lay Meeting was held November 3-5, 2006 at Vernon AME Church in Tulsa, Oklahoma where the Rev. Michelle K. T. Moulden is the pastor.

David Fielding, 12th Episcopal District Lay President was on hand to hold the elections. Mr. Fielding was the guest speaker at the Awards Banquet on Friday, November 3, 2006.

The following persons were elected at the meeting:

President- Jacqueline Weary
1st Vice-President- Buford Nash
Second Vice-President-Morolyn Ester
Secretary-Jacqueline Cotton
Assistant Secretary-Jacqueline Neely
Corresponding Secretary Theresa Goff
Treasurer-Mary Russell
Financial Secretary-Helen Emerson
Chaplain-Elsie Caeser
Historiographer-Theresa Jordan
Parliamentarian-Geneva Warren
Director of Lay Activities-Molly Miller
Director of Public Relations-Warnetta Barnett

9. ALL ABOUT DIABETES AND SYMPTOMS OF DIABETES:

Diabetes is a disease in which the body does not produce or properly use insulin. Insulin is the hormone
That is used to convert sugar, starch or other foods into energy needed for daily life.

Major Types OF DIABETES

a. Type 1

Results from the body’s failure to produce insulin.

b. Type 2

Results because the body fails to properly use insulin, combined with insulin deficiency.

c. Pre-diabetes

Occurs when a persons blood glucose levels are higher than normal but not high enough for a diagnosis of type 2 diabetes.

Symptoms Of Diabetes

Frequent urination
Extreme thirst
Extreme hunger
Unexplained weight loss
Fatigue
Blurred vision
Frequent infections

How Diabetes Affects You

High sugar levels can lead to heart attacks, stroke, hypertension, nerve damage, and kidney or eye problems.
Keeping your blood pressure, cholesterol, weight, and glucose on target can delay or prevent problems.

People with diabetes need ongoing medical care to stay healthy

Treatments for Diabetes

Meal planning
Exercise
Medications if needed

Submitted by Sister Gwendolyn B. Williams healthcommamec@yahoo.com

10. EPILEPSY AWARENESS:

November is Epilepsy Awareness month.

2.5 million Americans have epilepsy. For many the biggest problem they face is society’s negative attitude about the condition.

The World Health Organization says that 80% of the people in the world have no access to treatment due to myths and superstitions surrounding the disease.

Over 50 million people in the world have epilepsy, 85% live in developing countries.
In addition to cultural attitudes, a lack of antieleptic drugs is also an obstacle to treatment.

Epilepsy is a neurological condition that produces sudden brief changes in how the brain cells function. When the cells are not functioning properly, a person’s conscious movements or action are altered for a short time. This is called a seizure.

In more than 70% of all cases, no cause can be found; epilepsy may be caused by head injuries, strokes, brain tumors, lead poisoning and birth defects of the brain.

Seizures are unpredictable events

Types of Seizures

Generalized (also called Gran Mal or Convulsions) happen when the brain is suddenly swamped with electrical energy
Causing the body to jerk unconsciousness and stiffening of the body.

Absence Seizures (also called Petite Mal) look like day dreaming, or blank staring. They begin abruptly and end after a few seconds.

Simple Partial Seizures produce changes in sensation, movement or feeling without altering consciousness. The movement may start in one part of the body and move until the whole body is involved, the person may see things that are not there or hear strange sounds. This seizure occurs in the part of the brain that control movement, seeing, hearing, feeling and memory.

What to do

1. Keep calm and reassure other people who may be nearby.
2. Don’t hold the person down or try to stop his/her movements.
3. Time the seizure
4. Clear the area around the person of anything hard or sharp
5. Loosen anything around the neck
6. Put something soft under the head.
7. Turn him/her gently on to one side to keep the airway clear. Do not try to force the mouth open or try to hold the tongue down; this prevents injury to the jaw or teeth.
8. Do not attempt CPR unless the person is not breathing after the seizure has stopped.
9. Stay with the person until the Seizure has ended.
10. Be reassuring as consciousness returns.

Treatment

Treatment is designed to prevent seizures. It includes medications, surgery, nerve stimulation or special diet.

Submitted by Sister Gwendolyn B. Williams healthcommamec@yahoo.com

11. NECROLOGY REPORT - A CELEBRATION FOR MRS. ANNIE A. RUMPH:

By Brother Alphonso Ben Varner

A Celebration for Mrs. Annie Alridge Rumph was held at St. Peter African Methodist Episcopal Church, Fort Valley, Georgia January 10, 2006.

"Let the work I've done speak for me."

Mrs. Rumph was born was born October 5, 1917 in Schley County, Georgia, the sixth child of the late Napolean Alridge, Sr. and Mrs. Lula Johnson Alridge.

Affectionately, Annie was called Mom, Mama Rumph and Cousin Annie. Annie was married to the late Mr. J.C. Rumph.

Mama Rumph was a person who loved people and had a special love for her Godchildren. At the young age of five, she joined Spring Hill A.M.E. Church in Ellaville, Georgia, later moved to Fort Valley and joined St. Peter A.M.E. Church in 1952.

Mama Rumph retired after serving faithfully as a dedicated teacher for 30 plus years in the Schley County School System.

Mom served in numerous organizations of St. Peter to include the Trustee Board; President of the Gospel Choir; the Missionary Society; Chairperson Pro-tem of the Steward Board; President of the Lay Organization; Church Financial Secretary; President of the Usher/Usherettes; President of the Expansion of the Black Experience Committee (Emancipation Proclamation); Founder of the Peach County Community Center and Life Member of the Retired Teachers Association.

Mom was a pacesetter in that she was the first Black elected female to serve as a County Commissioner in Peach County.

She had a real love for the church and found much enjoyment in sponsoring different church and community programs.

On Thursday, January 5, 2006, Mama Rumph departed this life.

She leaves to cherish her memories four devoted nieces: Ms. Barbara Alridge, Jacksonville, Florida, Ms. Marjorie Simon, Atlanta, Georgia, Ms. Gladys S. Clark and Ms. Mary Brown, Stuart, Florida; two devoted nephews, Messrs. Don Simon and Richard Alridge, Atlanta, Georgia; a host of relatives and friends.

The Reverend Bertram Smith is the pastor. The Reverend Doctor Gregory Homer gave the eulogy.

12. CLERGY FAMILY CONGRATULATORY ANNOUNCEMENT:

- The Rev. and Mrs. L. R. Daughtry are happy to announce the marriage of their daughter, Lynnette Daughtry Barrett to Mr. Kelby S. Barrett, son of Mr. and Mrs. Horace N. Barrett, Jr. The wedding was held on Saturday, November 4, 2006, at Historical St. John's A.M.E. Church in Norfolk, VA.

Congratulatory Notices can be sent to kelbyandlynnette@yahoo.com

- The marriage of the Reverend Nigel B. Titus, pastor of Mother Bethel Memorial AME Church, Cape Town to Sis. Chris-Zelda Sidonie, a member of Vinton Anderson AME Church, Eerste River, Cape Town. God blessed this union on Saturday, 28 October 2006 at Vinton Anderson AME Church.

Both of these churches are in the Cape Annual Conference of the 15th Episcopal District, Bishop Samuel L. Green, Sr. Presiding Bishop.

The Reverend Nigel Titus is the third youngest son of Sister Frances Titus and the late Brother Griffith Titus of District Six, Cape Town. Reverend Titus served the Cape Annual Conference for the past eight years in the capacity of secretary for the Board of Trustees and has served the churches in Zolani, Delft, Blue Downs and currently Hazendal, Cape Town.

We, as a family, pray for abundant blessings on this union, as well as for the pastoral couple's ministry.

Email congratulatory messages may be sent to: nathan@lloydhill.co.za

13. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

We regret to inform you of the passing of Brother William A. Patterson, the father-in-law of Rev. Mark Tyler, pastor of Macedonia AMEC in Camden, New Jersey (New Jersey Annual Conference, Camden-Trenton District). Brother Patterson died from a massive heart attack on Wednesday, November 1 while in Pembroke Pines, Florida. The following information has been provided regarding funeral arrangements.

Viewing and Funeral Service – Monday, November 6, 2006

Viewing – 9:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.
Funeral – 11:00 a.m.

Allen Temple AMEC
7030 Reading Road
Cincinnati, Ohio 45237
Rev. Mark Thompson, Pastor
Phone: 513-531-7539
Fax: 513-531-7596

Condolences may be sent to:

Rev. Mark & Mrs. Leslie Tyler
9401 Wrensong Court
Palmyra, NJ 08065
Or
Faxed to Allen Temple AMEC
See above information

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in memory of William Alonzo Patterson III to the Allen Temple Church Building Fund.

14. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

We regret to inform you of the passing of Brother Alfred Eugene Bean, the father of Rev. Lorne Bean, pastor of Bright Temple AMEC in Bermuda. The following information has been provided regarding funeral arrangements.

Funeral Service – Thursday, November 9, 2006 - 1:00 p.m.

Allen Temple AMEC
P. O. Box MA 264
Mangrove Bay
Sandy’s MA BX
Bermuda
Rev. Betty Furbert-Woolridge, Pastor
Phone: 441-234-0433
Fax: 441-234-1495

Condolences may be sent to:
Rev. Lorne Bean
Bright Temple AMEC
P. O. Box WK 114
Warwick WK BX
Bermuda
Or
Faxed to Allen Temple AMEC
See above information

Please remember Rev. Bean and family in your prayers.

14. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

Brother O. B. Brown, the father of the Rev. Randy Brown, Pastor of Ebenezer A.M.E. Church, Clarksville, Tennessee, North Nashville District, Tennessee Conference and grandfather of Ashlee Brown, Connectional YPD Campus Ministries Chairperson. Brother Brown passed away Sunday, November 5th in Fayetteville, Tennessee.

Service Arrangements:

Friday November 10, 2006
Visitation 1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Funeral: 2:00 p.m.
St. Paul A.M.E. Church
521 W. College St.
Fayetteville, TN 37334

Professional Services entrusted to:

Sledge Funeral Home
210 Bellview Avenue South
Fayetteville, TN 37334
(931) 433-2362 Phone
(931) 433-3105 Fax

Condolences may be sent to:
Rev. & Mrs. Randy Brown
1816 Hailey Ave
Nashville, TN 37218
(615) 251-3304
Email: brownranzy@comcast.net

And to:
Ashlee Brown
1816 Hailey Ave
Nashville, TN 37218
(615) 294-0493
Email: abrown511@hotmail.com

15. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT AND CONGRATULATORY ANNOUNCEMENTS PROVIDED BY:

The Clergy Family Information Center
Bishop Carolyn Tyler Guidry, Chair

Commission on Social Action Mrs. Ora L. Easley, Administrator
Email: Amespouses1@aol.com
Phone: (615) 837-9736
Voice Mail: (615) 833-6936
Fax: (615) 833-3781
Cell: (615) 403-7751

16. 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 CHRISTIAN RECORDER ONLINE ENGLISH EDITION (11/2/06)

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. READER RESPONSE TO EDITORIAL AND OTHER ISSUES:

- To the Editor:

Good article on the "digital divide." I'm glad to say that Morris Brown is working to bridge the divide. We have a Technology Ministry and a twelve station, up-to-date, online computer lab that we use:

a. In our tutorial and mentoring and summer enrichment ministries to elementary and middle school students of the church and community,

b. For a free, basic adult computer class that leaves each participant with an e-mail address - the oldest graduate was 87 years old - and,

c. For intermediate and advanced classes for those who complete the basic class and want to do more.

We've also taken our website off line to revamp and make it interactive, and we communicate with the members of the Official Board and the membership at large by e-mail on a regular basis.

We're also working on an intra-congregational blog, and are committed to seeing that the church serves the present age - technology and all!

The Rev. Dr. Joe Darby, Pastor
Morris Brown AME Church, Charleston, SC

2. QUESTION FOR A FREE SUBSCRIPTION TO THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER:

a. Who was Bishop Nichols’ father?
b. Where and when did Bishop Nichols attend his first General Conference?
c. Where did Bishop Nichols first attend school?
d. Bishop Nichols was an assistant organist at what church?
e. What college did Bishop Nichols attend?

Editor’s Note: The answers must be emailed back to the Editor within 48 hours from the posting of this issue.

3. THE PROPOSED MIDWEST CONFERENCE OF THE FIFTH EPISCOPAL DISTRICT OF THE AFRICAN METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH:

By the Rev. Eraina Marie Aseme, Publicity Chairperson
The Rev. Marilyn Robinson, Publicity Co-Chair

Every year after the series of Annual Conferences are held for the African Methodist Episcopal Church of the Fifth Episcopal District, the presiding prelate holds a Planning Meeting at a designated location called by him or her. Following that tradition, Bishop John Richard Bryant held the Annual Planning Meeting on October 30, 2006 at the Hilton Airport, St Louis, Missouri. The host presiding elders were Reverends C. Jesse Strong, St. Louis/Columbia District and W. Bartlette Finney, St. Louis/Cape Girardeau District. The Missouri Conference hosted the Planning Meeting along with Revs. Edmund Lowe Sr., Christ Our Redeemer, Black Jack, Missouri and Marvin Sullivan II, Ward Chapel, Florissant, Missouri. The theme for the conference year is Serving Well and the scripture is James 2:17 NRSV. The Bishop’s Planning Meeting consisted of clergy and lay persons representing 250 churches across the Midwest and western region of the United States of America representing 14 states. Bishop John R. Bryant along with the Episcopal Supervisor, Rev. Cecelia Williams Bryant set plans and the calendar for the coming conference year. Rev. Cecelia Williams Bryant oversees the missionaries of the Fifth Episcopal District at all levels, local, conference and district.

In addition, to making plans and setting duties for the coming year, pastoral appointments are made by the presiding prelate. According to a spokesperson, the Bishop’s Planning Meeting was informative and well attended. All Episcopal district reports were given: Women’s Missionary Society, Lay Organization, Presiding Elders’ Council, Women In Ministry, Western University Land Development Site, Nehemiah Ministries, Spouses/Widows Alliance, Economic Development and Fifth District Prayer Ministry. Along with the progressive reports that were given. Dynamic preaching was exalted by Dr. Leah Gaskin Fitchue, President, Payne Theological Seminary in the morning worship service, her sermon title, “What Is Your Faith Doing?”, James 2:1, 17; and Bishop McKinley Young, Presiding Prelate of the Eleventh Episcopal District of the A.M.E. Church at the Hour of Power preached from I Samuel 17:38, “Wear Your Own Clothes.” Both preachers were affected by the flaws of life. For an example, a few minutes before Dr. Fitchue was to mount the podium, the hotel authorities ordered all occupants to evacuate the hotel due to a fire. A few seconds later the authorities announced that the fire was a false alarm. In the case of Bishop Young, an earlier flight that he was scheduled to board was cancelled for his travel from Florida to St. Louis Missouri. Once he secured his flight and landed in St. Louis, MO, it was reported that his luggage was lost. So as fate would have it he called upon Bishop Vinton R. Anderson, a retired Bishop of the A.M.E. Church who resides in St. Louis to borrow his purple robe. Bishop Young’s luggage experience influenced such a timely message, “Wear Your Own Clothes”. God works in mysterious ways. In addition, Bishop Bryant, the presiding prelate of the Fifth Episcopal District made the following pastoral appointments:

The Rev. Sherrie Wood Powe to St. Paul A.M.E. Church, Olathe, Kansas; the Rev. Farris Settles, Willis Chapel A.M.E. Church, Kansas City, Missouri (KCMO); the Rev. Carrie Humphrey, Mariah Walker A.M.E. Church, KCMO; Andrew Rollins; Bethel A.M.E. Church, Barstow, CA; the Rev. Willie Adams, Fountain of Hope A.M.E. Church, Las Vegas, NV; the Rev. Steve Shephard Sr. A.M.E. Church of the Resurrection, Richmond, CA; the Rev. Janet Swift, Price Chapel A.M.E. Church, La Jolla, CA, the Rev. Edwin Donaldson, Jr., Grant Chapel A.M.E. Church, Wichita, KS and Craig Wilkerson, Olive Chapel A.M.E. Church, Kirkwood, MO, and the Rev. L. C. Drew received evangelism papers.

Due to the increase pastoral responsibility of the Rev. Noella Buchannan resigned as the Fifth Episcopal District Women In Ministry President. Her successor who was appointed by Bishop Bryant is Rev. Pamela Mason, pastor of Carter Memorial A.M.E. Church, Fresno, CA. Also, Bro Kenton Sanders was appointed the Director of Music for the Fifth Episcopal District. Bro. Sanders is responsible for providing and coordinator music for the Fifth District. He is a member of Wayman A.M.E. Church, St. Louis, Missouri; his pastor is Rev. Dr. Timothy E. Tyler. Bro. Sanders has the awesome task of organizing, planning, leading and directing the music team for the General Conference. It is estimated that over 600 members are scheduled to make-up the choir for General Conference.

Furthermore, the African Methodist Episcopal Church will be holding its General Conference in July 2008. The General Conference session will bring approximately 30,000 to 40,000 will be in attendance. The Fifth Episcopal District of the A.M.E. Church will host the General Conference. The General Conference is normally held for 10 days. At this conference, church laws are adopted, redefined and/or removed, elections of officers and Bishops are made. Also, Bishops are assigned to the various Episcopal districts.

4. RELIGIOUS LEADERS APPEAL TO CONGRESS- SEEKING JUSTICE IN OUR LAND:

October 24, 2006

Dear Members of Congress:

We write to you on the eve of the 2006 elections, as leaders of eleven faith communities who have come together in Churches Uniting in Christ and pledged to combat racism together in our churches and in our society as the hallmark of this new relationship. We represent over 25 million communicants nationwide.

We are grateful that the 109th Congress renewed expiring provisions of the Voting Rights Act, but we remain deeply concerned that Congress has failed to address the issue of the federal minimum wage. It is time to put this important matter of economic and racial justice in a prominent place in the national debate and to act upon it when Congress returns after the elections.

Through the millennia prophets have called for economic justice for all. The Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., said, “There is nothing except shortsightedness to prevent us from guaranteeing an annual minimum – and livable – income for every American family.” Pope John Paul II stated, “In every case, a just wage is the concrete means of verifying the justice of the whole socioeconomic system.” Today we add our appeal to these voices.

There is a growing hidden underclass in the United States today. By keeping the minimum wage as a poverty wage, Congress compounds this reality that has major impact on all segments in our society. But poverty disproportionately affects people of color who, according to a report from the U.S. Census Bureau, experience a higher rate of poverty in this country. Indeed, African Americans and Hispanics are nearly three times as likely to live under the poverty line, and nearly two times as likely to live under twice the official poverty.

The real value of the minimum wage today is nearly $4.00 less than it was in 1968. Minimum wage workers today have less buying power than minimum wage workers did in 1950. At the same time, Congress clearly recognizes the results of inflation when it gives itself raise after raise, most recently this summer.

Signed by:

Bishop Philip R. Cousin, Sr
Senior Bishop
African Methodist Episcopal Church

Bishop George W. Walker, Sr.
Senior Bishop
African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church

Bishop William Graves, Sr,
Senior Bishop
Christian Methodist Episcopal Church

The Reverend Dr. Sharon E. Watkins
General Minister and President
Christian Churches (Disciples of Christ)

The Rev. Mark Hanson
Presiding Bishop
Evangelical Lutheran Church in America

The Most Rev. Frank T. Griswold
Presiding Bishop and Primate
Episcopal Church, USA

The Rev. Michael Livingston
President
International Community Churches

The Rev. David Wickmann
President, Provincial Elders
Moravian Church Northern Province

The Rev. Clifton Kirkpatrick
States Clerk of the General Assembly
Presbyterian Church (USA)

The Rev. John H. Thomas
General Minister and President
United Church of Christ

The Rev. Dr. Larry D. Pickens
General Secretary, Ecumenical Staff Officer
The United Methodist Church

5. A GIVE-AWAY OF WHICH READERS SHOULD ADVANTAGE:

In 2003 the “AME Biblically Based Study Course” along with the “Biblical Perspective about Debt” was printed for use by everyone in the church.

In March, 2006, the series was reviewed by Dr. Calvin Sydnor III, Editor of the Christian Recorder, (The Official Organ of the African Methodist Episcopal Church); and in the March 21 edition he wrote:

“I would recommend that every Pastor order this wonderful resource to keep as a resource for the members of their congregation.”

The contents of this comprehensive book and audio series are so important to the church that GKM Product Development, Inc. made a decision to give (Free) one Biblically Based series to every AME pastor. All the pastor has to do is pay for packing and mailing ($15.00) but the series ($70.00 current retail) is Free.

Last week over 100 series were mailed to AME pastors throughout the United States.

To receive your audio and two book AME Series send a request via email to: series@gkmpackagingdist.com .

Please include your full name, the name of your church, full address of your church and a telephone number. Once your information is received the series will be mailed the same day. A self addressed stamped envelop is included for you to send your check ($15.00) for shipping and handling. Only one series per pastor is will be mailed

6. “2,4,6,8, HAVE WE FORGOTTEN TO EDUCATE?”:

*By Tonya C. W. Ballard

In the month of February we will be honoring the accomplishments of those who contributed to our history but what about our present? By no means do I intend to deny the accolades worthily bestowed upon our ancestry but I firmly believe our church is lacking some of the ingenuity that once made it standout from among the other denominations as innovative. Of course this is a sweeping generalization. There are many individual churches that are making strides in embracing this new age of technology with its multitudinous resources. But, we are a connection, not an individual church. I believe as a connection it is our duty to once again set a precedent - specifically in the field of education.

As a teacher in an urban school district I can honestly say that public school education is failing our children. However, I do not totally place the blame on the schools. We, the church, must bear a large brunt of that burden. Teachers are afforded with the gift and responsibility to educate. It is very difficult for them to do that when bombarded with overcrowded classrooms, under privileged students, and a host of issues that plague the public school system. We need support. We need resources. In short, we need you.

Great pioneers of education in the past fought valiantly for the right to equal access in education but access untapped is access denied. But, that does not and must not ring true for our children. If we have truly adopted the proverbial adage “It takes an entire village to raise one child,” then we must adopt the attitude that when one child is lost it is because the villagers are lost. I don’t know about you but I’m not willing to look into the eyes of any child and concede to failure.

While it would be easy to sit idly by and claim that the responsibility to educate falls squarely on the shoulders of those whom are paid (inadequate salaries), I adamantly disagree and so should you. My first teachers were my family members and my church members, synonymously. There was no separation of the two. But today many children don’t have parents who tell them church participation is mandatory. Unfortunately, many of today’s children are given a choice as to whether or not they will attend church much like a choice to join some after school extracurricular activity. It is our job to seek the lost, care for the least, and guide the left behind. We must bring our young people into the church. But what happens after that?

We excel at drawing the youth in but fail to retain them. Why? I believe it is because children, just like adults, need to be fed. How can we expect them to participate in church when they have no clue as to what is going on. They aren’t well versed in the hymns, they don’t know the order of service, they can’t connect with the whooping preacher and like many adults they don‘t understand why we do the things we do in church.

The highlight of their church experience is often in Sunday School or in youth Bible Study so we must be more effective in the use of this time devoted to Christian education. Our Sunday school teachers must be trained in the latest trends and strategies in reference to education. They must be able to relate to the culture that today’s children are privy to. By no means do I feel we should be accepting of what the world is offering our youth, but we need to be aware of the different ploys attempting to seduce our children. Prayer is a great tool to fight ignorance but so is the ability to think critically about a situation and make wise decisions. After all, wisdom is a gift of God as well.

Teachers are obligated to take part in professional development opportunities designed to help them perfect their craft. We should hold those who teach our Sunday Schools to the same accountability. Not everyone who teaches the Sunday School is called to do so. The same argument may be made for those who teach by profession. It is sometimes challenging to find qualified teachers to teach but as a wise person once said, “God doesn’t call the qualified, he qualifies the called.” Teaching is a ministry and those who endeavor to do it should be equipped to do it effectively. Therefore, it is my belief that the church must become more progressive in how we train local Sunday School teachers and in teaching methods and practices.

We should develop standards for the Christian core curriculum that we provide that should include components of strategies and skills expected to be mastered in their respective schools. For instance, students in schools across New Jersey are expected to know how to respond to a picture, poem-linked, or persuasive prompt. They are also expected to formulate well thought-out responses to open-ended questions using textual support and activating schema. This may sound like jargon to anyone who is not a student or teacher in today’s schools but that should not be the case.

I learned public speaking at the church, I practiced reading at the church, and some of the best pieces I’ve ever written are in some way connected to the church. We must inspire the same drive in our youth today. Church should be the place where reading and writing come to life. Think about it. In days of yore the only book children had was the Bible. The Bible was the guiding light that gave children the power of education. If it is indeed our Basic Instructions Before Leaving Earth then we must be the first, the willing, and the best instructors because God always does things perfectly.

Additionally, what good is it to have scholarship committees who raise money for students to go to college without having committees to ensure that those students are prepared succeed in college. Studies have shown that a disproportionate amount of African-American students have to take remedial courses upon entering college. They have not been prepared for the rigors of academia on a college level. We need to groom them to be able to think critically, speak profoundly, write effectively, read analytically, and listen attentively. This can be accomplished with the help of the church community.

You may think, “Easy for you to criticize, but what are the solutions?” We should begin to have meaningful dialogue, practical workshops, and Christian Educators’ Professional development. We may even be able to apply for Faith -Based or community funding as we partner with our local schools to achieve these goals. I don’t have all the answers but I do know this, if we don’t make some drastic changes in how we educate youth in our churches, an already dire situation will become even bleaker.

*Tonya Ballard is a seventh grade English Language Arts teacher in Plainfield, NJ and the wife of the Rev. Amir M. Ballard, pastor of Wells Chapel AME Church in the New Jersey Annual Conference.

7. AME-INDIA REPORT FOR OCTOBER:

We Praise the Lord, for God has been so good to us and the ministry of AMEC in India. God has touched many lives in different ways to prove to them, that God is alive, active, and almighty, that God loves them and cares for them. These brothers and sisters have come forward to share these divine experiences as personal testimonies for the edification of others. There were many such testimonies in this month, but we have selected a few to share with you. Let us rejoice along with the angels in heaven, for the salvation experience of these friends.

God Cares For a High Caste Hindu

Jeeva Laxmi was born and brought up in a staunch Hindu Saivite family. She happened to marry a Hindu convert who was a committed Christian, had the gift of tongues and exorcism. Each followed their own faith freely without any compulsions. Slowly the husband turned away from Christ, and his behaviour changed, he started drinking and beating his wife. He even attempted to kill her once. They have a six year old son. Recently Sarah counselled Jeeva Laxmi and shared the gospel with her, now she is reading the Bible and praying, she wants to revive the Christian faith in her husband. We request you to pray for Jeeva Laxmi to experience the touch of God and also for her husband’s faith to be revived.

God Brings Light through the Blind

We found Mr. & Mrs. Luke both of whom are blind. Both of them are born again committed Christians. We shared about the ministry of AME-India to them. God has touched them and called them to fulltime ministry. Now they have started a prayer fellowship for the blind at Maraimalainagar (between Chennai & Chengalpet). They minister to the blind in this vicinity that live by begging. They are eager to join with AMEC. They desperately need a place to conduct their prayer meetings and worship service. We are trying to help them out in this. Even though their world is filled with darkness, nevertheless the light of Jesus shines through them in the life of others. Please pray for their ministry, their safety and for God to provide them a place to worship.

God Heals Lung Cancer

Mr. Ravi was suffering and being treated for Lung cancer. His days were numbered, the hospital discharged him to go home and fulfill his last wishes before he could breathe his last breath. The whole family was filled with sorrow and depression. In this situation, Rebecca one of the cell group leaders led him to one of the cell meetings, here he committed his life to Jesus and believed in the healing power of Jesus when the people of God prayed for him. Later when he went back for a medical test, he was surprised and overjoyed to see that he was healed of cancer. There was no trace of it. Now he, his wife Geeta and daughter Pavithra all of them have put their trust in Christ and are attending the worship service at Bangalore. Please pray for them to become mature in their new found faith.

Jesus Is My Refuge

Mr. Kanikaraj, a Roman Catholic, against the wish of his family and church, married a girl whom he loved. As a result of this he was excommunicated from his family and the church. One of his friends, who is a member of the church at Bangalore, led him to the worship service, the love and the warm reception of the people of God led him and his wife to surrender their lives to Jesus. Mr. Kanikaraj has taken up a new name Allen, as a mark of his new identity. Both he and his wife want to be baptized. Please pray for them to grow in their relationship with Jesus. We also request prayers for Mrs. Kanikaraj, that God would touch and heal her from and heart problem that she is suffering from.

The Divine Touch Heals

The doctors had confirmed that Mrs. Israel had fibroid cancer and that she has to undergo operation. The dates were fixed for operation. The day before the operation Pastor Vijaymani and his associates visited Mrs. Israel in the hospital and prayed for her. On the day of operation, when the doctors tested her for the final time, she came out clean; she neither had fibroids nor cancer. God is indeed great. Please pray for Mrs. Israel and that God would use her testimony to touch many other lives.

Laxmi, a rich landlord, staunch Hindu, had been suffering from arthritis and had no peace of mind. She was led to one of the cell groups through which she was encouraged by Sarah. She wept and shared her burdens and sorrows with Sarah, she had been longing for peace in her life. This rendezvous led her to attend the worship service on Sundays. Now she witnesses that her arthritis has vanished. She now believes in Jesus and prays, but is yet to wholly commit her life to Jesus. Please pray for her salvation.

From Drug Peddler to Gospel Peddler

Mr. Ponraj comes from a Hindu family, whose family was involved in cultivating and selling harmful drugs. Due to this illegal business they had earned a lot of money and were well off. All this came to a halt when his father died and before his death he discouraged his children from continuing in the same business, since it was evil.

Sticking to the promise to his father, Ponraj decides to change his means of livelihood, so he learns to drive motor vehicles. He got married, after giving birth to two daughters his wife dies of Brain Tumour. He spent a lot of money to treat her ailment, but could not save her. The younger daughter was only nine months old when his wife passed away. His family members forced him to marry a second time and this time he married one of his close relatives who happened to be a born-again committed Christian. Through her he came to know the Lord and now he has committed himself to serve God, by preaching the gospel. Praise the Lord, for the Lord’s ways are marvelous. Please pray for this family to grow in the Lord and that God would use them as effective instruments of God’s mission.

From Hinduism to Christ

Esther Puttrose was born and brought up in a Hindu family. After her marriage she moved from the village to the city along with her husband and began to accommodate herself in a large joint family. Life was difficult for her in such a big family.

One day she came across a Gospel team who were selling gospel packets, out of her curiosity she wanted to buy a gospel packet, but she did not have the required money, but the evangelist was gracious enough to share about Jesus and present her with the Gospel of Mark in her own language. She read it repeatedly and finally she surrendered her life to Christ, within three months her husband also came to accept Jesus. When his family (who were staunch Hindus) came to know about it, they started torturing them. Fear led her husband to turn his back on Christ and hen started torturing Esther to give-up her new found faith.

In spite of this struggle, she continued to believe in Jesus and earnestly pray for her husband. After a long wait, recently he has recommitted his life to Christ, without the iota of fear which he had earlier. Now they live as a separate family, but they have Jesus with them and they have inner peace. Please pray for the safety and growth in Christian maturity.

We are pleased to inform you that Pastor Rajamanickam of Thimmarajanpettai has been able to rebuild their worship place which was almost in shambles. This was possible because of the gift given by Bishop John. Bishop John and his associates had visited this church, shared God’s word and fellowshipped with the people. The Pastor and the congregation express their heartfelt thanks and gratitude to Bishop John and the AME Church.

We urgently and earnestly request you to pray for the State of Tamilnadu, and particularly Chennai and its surroundings. Many of the AME brothers and sisters have also been affected by the rains and floods; we request your prayers for them. Recently we had heavy rains due to which the city is inundated with water everywhere, due to this there is fear of epidemic. Many of the houses are still submerged in water, the roads are cut off, trees have fallen and phone lines are cut, some places do not have electricity. Unfortunately this city is never prepared for rains. Our internet connection is out of order over a week.

We will be grateful to you for your prayers for us. Abraham and Isaac (our son) have been down with fever, please pray for their healing. In the rains we had to face a difficult time travelling to different places visiting the churches, preaching and teaching them. By the grace of God we are safe back home.

We thank all of you for remembering us in your prayers. We also thank Bishop John and Rev. Cee for their constant encouragement and prayers. We are grateful to God as well as to Bishop John and Rev. Cee for giving us the opportunity to serve God through AME-India. The above testimonies are stark examples of God’s work through AME-India, and we rejoice in it. Praise the Lord.

Sarah & Abraham
AME-India
31st October 2006

8. CONGRATULATORY NOTIFICATIONS:

Congratulatory notifications are posted on Friday of each week that we might share the “Joyful” moments; the “GOOD” news of Clergy Family Graduations, Births, Weddings, and Wedding Anniversaries (25th, 30th, 40th, 50th, 75th) and extend commendations, congratulations and well wishes to those clergy families who are praising God for the Joy of significant milestones reached in their lives.

9. EPISCOPAL FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

The passing of Mrs. Eulalie Petersen Elcock, the aunt of former Episcopal Supervisor,
Dr. Sylvia Ross Talbot.

Service of Celebration for Mrs. Eulalie Petersen Elcock:
Saturday, November 4, 2006
11:00 a.m.
St. Paul Lutheran Church
2569 Tilson Road
Decatur, Georgia
404-241-2524 Phone

Condolences may be sent to:
Dr. Sylvia Ross Talbot
240 Ashington Court
Brentwood, TN 37027-4362
Email: Sisti684@aol.com

10. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

We regretfully announce the passing of Rev. Albert Curry on October 29, 2006. Rev. Curry was a Retired Minister in the Alabama Conference.

Funeral arrangements are as follows:
Funeral Service:
Thursday, November 2, 2006
1:00 PM
Brown Chapel AME Church
410 Martin L. King Street
Selma, AL 36701
334-874-7897

Funeral Director:
Lewis Funeral Home
1140 Minter Avenue
Selma, AL 36701
334-875-7212 Phone
334-875-3806 Fax

Messages may be sent to:
Mrs. Odessa Curry & Family
626 Dallas Co. Road
Jones, AL 36749

11. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

Mrs. Lucille Coates, wife of Rev. E. E. Coates, (Retired Pastor) Texas Conference (Houston area) went home to be with the Lord, Friday, October 27, 2006.

Viewing Information:7 P.M. - 9 P.M. - Friday evening, November 3, 2006
Wesley Chapel A.M.E. Church - Houston, Texas

Homegoing Service Information:11:00 A.M. - Saturday, November 4, 2006

Wesley Chapel A.M.E. Church - Houston, Texas

The Rev. Dr. Leo Griffin, Pastor
2209 Dowling Street
Houston, Texas 77003

Ph: (713) 659-6682

Sister Lucille Coates' final earthly care has been entrusted to:

Johnson Funeral Home
5730 Calhoun Road
Houston, Texas 77021

Ph: (713) 747-9604
Fax: (713) 741-5849

Condolences may be sent to: Rev. E. E. Coates10730 Braes Forest DriveHouston, Texas 77071Ph: (713) 988-5314

12. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

Rev. Elmo Quarles (Retired Pastor); Texas Conference (Houston area) went home to be with the Lord, Monday, October 30, 2006.

Viewing Information:

7 P.M. - 9 P.M. - Friday evening, November 3, 2006

McCoy & Harrison Mortuary-Houston, Texas
Homegoing Service Information:

1:30 P.M. - Saturday, November 4, 2006

Wesley Chapel A.M.E. Church-Houston, Texas

Wesley Chapel A.M.E. Church
The Rev. Dr. Leo Griffin, Pastor
2209 Dowling Street
Houston, Texas 77003

Ph: (713) 659-6682
Rev. Elmo Quarles' final earthly care has been entrusted to:

McCoy & Harrison Funeral Home Inc.
4918 Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.
Houston, Texas 77021

Phone: (713) 659-7618
Fax: (713) 748-7122

Condolences may be sent to: Mrs. Irozolia Quarles 3117 Chimira LaneHouston, Texas 77051Ph: (713) 2413

13. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT ANNOUNCEMENTS PROVIDED BY:

The Clergy Family Information Center
Bishop Carolyn Tyler Guidry, Chair
Commission on Social Action Mrs. Ora L. Easley, Administrator

Email: Amespouses1@aol.com
Phone: (615) 837-9736
Voice Mail: (615) 833-6936
Fax: (615) 833-3781
Cell: (615) 403-7751

14. 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.