Bishop Gregory G. M. Ingram - Chair, Commission on Publications
The Reverend Dr. Johnny Barbour, Jr., Publisher
The Reverend Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III, Editor
Editor’s note: The correct name for the official newspaper of the AME Church is, “THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER.”
1. EDITORIAL – “NOT ONLY TECHNOLOGY, BUT MINISTERIAL EDUCATION AND UPDATE”:
Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III
The AME Church not only needs to be updated throughout and across the Church in the area of technology, but also in the areas of academic and theological education, and especially continuing education.
I looked through The Discipline to see if the Church had a clergy continuing education requirement. I scoured The Discipline from cover to cover and couldn’t find a three-hour Continuing Education Unit (CEU) requirement for ministers. I called several knowledgeable AME Scholars for assistance and apparently the Church does not have a standardized requirement for ministerial theological and academic update.
It seems strange that the Church, in this age of information exchange, does not have a standardized, enforceable program to insure that our ministers are continually updated in such areas as theology, religion, leadership, administration, and the ever-changing landscape of societal and social issues facing the Church today.
A few weeks ago, Brother Robert Thompson, a family friend preached his trial sermon at the AMEZ Church in Petersburg, Virginia, and my son, who attended the worship service, told me that one of the ministers in the conference got up after the trial sermon to give some remarks. My son said that the pastor encouraged Brother Thompson to be serious, not only about ministry and preaching, but to be serious in pursuing his theological education. The pastor went on to remark that it was a shame that sometimes it appears that the ministry is the only profession where the constituency served is sometimes more educated then the professionals serving them; that is not perceived as the case with other professions. It is assumed that patients are not smarter than their health care providers, clients are not smarter than their legal advisors, and customers are not smarter than their automobile mechanics or their airplane pilots. That assumption is not always the case when it is applied to those in ministry.
Sometimes, in ministry, we might find ourselves academically and theologically short-changed because some of our preachers are bi-vocational, others have over-burdened schedules, lack of finances; nor is there a reward for sacrificing and taking the time to earn CEUs beyond ordination. Additionally, there is no formal requirement for ministers to earn CEUs.
I believe that the time for legislative intervention is appropriate to address this issue. Every profession needs to keep updated and abreast of societal changes, and the ministry is no different. I also believe that we need to be serious about the issue of CEUs and the requirements need to be rigorous, and perhaps some sessions with research requirements; not “hoot and holler” classes, but strong academic and theological exchanges; and, not a three-hour annual CEU requirement, but a 30-hour per year CEU requirement as other professions require.
As a connectional Church, we need to foster connection instead of neglecting connection. For example, our boards of examiners across the Church are not consistent as it relates to the academic and theological training of the members of the boards of examiners. It follows that the disparity of the training of the members of the boards of examiners negatively impacts the pedagogic process, especially as it relates to standardization across the Church in the areas of AME history, polity and doctrine; there needs to be consistency in those areas.
I don’t know why we don’t require all applicants for ministry to take AME history, polity and doctrine during four or five-day summer sessions at either Payne Theological Seminary or Turner Theological Seminary; and even, if need be, at some of our other institutions, i.e., Jackson Theological Seminary, Dickerson Theological Seminary, Bonner Campbell School of Religion, Abington School of Religion, R.R. Wright Theological Seminary in the Republic of South Africa, or Bryant Theological Seminary in Monrovia with a trained faculty member for the academic presentation and a retired bishop, presiding elder/pastor to present the practical application as applied to ministry.
If the applicants for ministry gathered in regional locations, it would give the AME Church the opportunity to teach AME history, polity and doctrine in a consistent manner with an added benefit for future pastors to get to know one another, thus build community. From a utilitarian standpoint, it would give our institutions an opportunity to fill some of the dormitory rooms when the regular student bodies are away for the summer. Of course the “devil is in the details” and funding and other issues would have to be worked out.
If we can’t get ministerial applicants to AME institutions, perhaps regional locations could be established where groups of ministerial applicants from several episcopal districts could get the same training and build community. The boards of examiners would continue to teach the other subjects as they are now.
The Church needs to take action to enhance ministry and to raise the level of academic and theological training for active ministers and for applicants coming into the ministry.
Ministerial training has to be rigorous and ongoing. Training, training, and more training!
2. READER RESPONSE TO EDITORIAL AND OTHER ISSUES:
Editor’s Note: The Letter appended below was sent the Right Reverend Carolyn Tyler Guidry.
- Dear Bishop and Mother Carolyn Tyler Guidry,
Greetings from Rwanda
It is again Annual Conference time in Rwanda and we hope that this letter finds you well.
This letter comes to you as the Chairperson of the African Methodist Episcopal Church Commission on Social Action.
We continue to have problems with refugees in Goma and Masisi Districts in Eastern Congo which are in our Rwanda Annual Conference.
Our AME Church members fled from their region due to tribal and ethnic war in North Kivu Province of Congo DR, and are in Goma, Mugunga and Lac Vert refugee camps. We have over 3487 AME Members from nine churches in those camps.
They do have no clothes, no sheets or bedding, no food; nothing. They are in a desperate situation. We wanted the members of the AME Church to know that we have members of the African Methodist Episcopal Church in Rwanda without the basic necessities of life.
When you read about the situation in Rwanda, it is not “them,” or faceless individuals, many of the refugees are members of the African Methodist Episcopal Church.
Bishop Guidry, we appeal to you as the Chairperson of the African Methodist Episcopal Church Commission on Social Action to give us support and to cooperate with the demonstrations against the genocidal actions taking place in Rwanda. We need the African Methodist Church’s intervention. We, here in Rwanda are helpless and we hope that the AME Church can assist us so we can assist our members who are in need. We hope that you will help us.
The Rev. Elie Habimana, the Bishop's Administrative Assistant
for Rwanda Annual Conference (Rwanda, Kenya and Eastern Congo)
Tel: +25005104848
3. ANOTHER AME CHURCH, WAYMAN CHAPEL USES TECHNOLOGY TO ENHANCE MINISTRY:
Wayman Chapel A.M.E. Church in Dayton, Ohio is pleased to announce its weekly podcast. The podcast, updated every Sunday, is a free service of the Wayman Media Ministry that features recordings from the Sunday morning worship services. Consider using this tool for your personal and spiritual enrichment.
The RSS feed is:
http://feeds.feedburner.com/TheWaymanChapelAmeChurchPodcast
For more information, visit the podcast web site at:
http://www.waymanchapelame.org/podcasting
Editor’s note: Congratulations to Wayman Chapel AME Church, Dayton
4. THE “DELIVERANCE! WOMEN’S CONFERENCE” WELCOMES BISHOP VASHTI MURPHY MCKENZIE AND DISTINGUISHED PREACHERS, SCHOLARS, AND LEADERS TO THE CATHEDRAL OF TURNER CHAPEL AFRICAN METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH IN MARIETTA, GEORGIA:
Atlanta, GA (September 20, 2007). Women across Georgia and across generations, backgrounds, ethnicities, cultures, and professions will gather for four exceptional days of praise, worship, music, workshops, and seminars featuring an array of renowned women in the African Methodist Episcopal denomination. Sponsored by the Sixth Episcopal District of the African Methodist Episcopal Church, Deliverance! Women’s Conference: Birthing a Breakthrough, will take place at The Cathedral of Turner Chapel African Methodist Episcopal Church in Marietta from Wednesday, October 31 through Saturday, November 3.
Deliverance! Women’s Conference: Birthing a Breakthrough will be convened by Dr. Patricia “Pam” Morris DeVeaux, the Episcopal Missionary Supervisor of the Sixth Episcopal District (Georgia), which is led by Bishop William Phillips DeVeaux, Sr. Recognizing the varying challenges women face as they balance personal and professional lives, Dr. DeVeaux says, “Deliverance! Women’s Conference: Birthing a Breakthrough is an opportunity for women to flee the demands of life for a spiritual revival that will empower them to overcome challenges that affect their spiritual formation, health, finances, and personal relationships. The planners believe it is important for women to know that we cannot pray everything away—as much as we would like to and hard as we might try. That is why the Conference will include valuable seminars as well as powerful worship services.
Highlights of the Conference include the following:
Wednesday, October 31
7:00 p.m. Opening Worship Service, Rev. Dr. Elaine M. Flake, Co-Pastor, Allen Cathedral African Methodist Episcopal Church, Jamaica, New York; Featuring Psalmist L’Tanya Moore, Saint Philip African Methodist Episcopal Church, Decatur, Georgia
Thursday, November 1
10:00 a.m. – Noon Plenary Sessions, Presenters: Dr. Jacquelyn Grant, Fuller E. Callaway Professor of Systematic Theology, Interdenominational Theological Center, “I Have MS, But It Doesn’t Have Me”; Patricia Russell-McCloud, Esq., Internationally acclaimed author and motivational speaker, and Ecumenical Episcopal Supervisor, Plenary on Economic Empowerment; Rev. Dr. Carolyn McCrary, Associate Professor of Pastoral Care and Counseling, Interdenominational Theological Center, Plenary on Spiritual Deliverance.
1:45 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. Various Workshops on Health and Wholeness, Economic Empowerment, and Spiritual Formation
7:00 p.m. Evening Worship Service, Bishop Vashti Murphy McKenzie, presiding prelate of the Thirteenth Episcopal District. Her historic election in the year 2000 represents the first time in the over 200-year history of the African Methodist Episcopal Church, in which a woman had obtained the level of Episcopal office.
Friday, November 2
9:30 a.m. – Noon Plenary Sessions/Panel Discussions: Part I, What Do Men Really Want? Part II, What Do Women Really Want?
Noon – 1:30 p.m. Celebrating Deliverers Luncheon, recognizing eight women for their service to their community and church. Keynote Speaker: Dr. Teresa Fry Brown, Associate Professor of Homiletics, Candler School of Theology at Emory University. Those being honored include: Ernestine Bennett, Johnnie Lee Clark, M. Joan Cousin, Ola Smith, Patricia Raybon, Jacquelyn Grant, Georgianna Sinkfield, and Janice McKenzie-Crayton.
1:45 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. Various Workshops on Health and Wholeness, Economic Empowerment, and Spiritual Formation
7:00 p.m. Friday Night Musical, gospel recording artist Rev. Timothy Wright, known as the “Godfather of Gospel,” known for such tunes as Can’t Stop Praising His Name, Get Up, If You’re on the Lord’s Side, We’re Gonna Make It (with Myrna Summers), Trouble Don’t Last Always, and his latest release, Jesus, Jesus, Jesus.
Saturday, November 3
9:30 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. Plenary Session, “Testimonies of Deliverance”
11:00 a.m. Closing Worship Service, Rev. Dr. Debora F. Grant, Senior Pastor, St. John African Methodist Episcopal Church, Columbus, Georgia
Some of the sessions and workshops include: Bless Your Heart-What You Need to Know About Heart Disease; Deliverance From Being Weighed Down; Brown Sugar-Diabetes Prevention and Control; The Millionaire Next Door; How to Avoid Identity Theft; Spiritual Detox; Loneliness, Lust, or Love; Save, Sanctified and Sexually Satisfied (for married women) and Can You Be Single, Saved, Sanctified and Sexually Satisfied (for single women). There will also be sessions for male clergy who may register for a slightly reduced registration fee.
Additional Conference participants include Presiding Elders Ella Samuels and Jacqueline Smith, Reverends Cassandra Y. Marcus, and Gabriel Hardeman, and bestselling author Dr. Patricia Raybon (“I Told the Mountain to Move”).
Another special event of this conference will be the Diabetes Dance and Walk. The Deliverance Conference will culminate with "Walking It Out: Dancing Away Diabetes," held in collaboration with the Center for Black Women's Wellness and Black Women's Health Initiative, at Grant Park in Atlanta, from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM on Saturday, November 3, 2007, immediately following the closing worship of the Deliverance Conference. This event is free and open to the public. Come out and join us as we take part in this public awareness event!
Deliverance! Women’s Conference: Birthing a Breakthrough will be an occasion for women to experience life changing moments as they worship together, learn together, and embrace new possibilities for their lives.
The Cathedral of Turner Chapel African Methodist Episcopal Church is located at 492 North Marietta Parkway, Marietta, Georgia 30060. The registration fee to attend Deliverance! Women’s Conference is $100, which includes the Celebrating Deliverers Luncheon. For more information and to register call (770) 220-1770 or visit www.deliverancenow.org.
About the African Methodist Episcopal Church
The Mission of the African Methodist Episcopal Church is to minister to the spiritual, intellectual, physical, emotional, and environmental needs of all people by spreading Christ's liberating gospel through word and deed. At every level of the Connection and in every local church, the African Methodist Episcopal Church shall engage in carrying out the spirit of the original Free African Society, out of which the AME Church evolved: that is, to seek out and save the lost, and serve the need
5. BIG BETHEL AME CHURCH, ATLANTA, GA, CELEBRATES ITS 160TH ANNIVERSARY:
Donna M. Williams and N. Nannette McGee, Co-Chairs 160th Anniversary Committee
Under the leadership of Rev. Gregory V. Eason, Sr., Senior Pastor, Big Bethel AME Church, the oldest African American congregation in Atlanta, GA, is celebrating 160 years of service and commitment to the Atlanta community. We trace our origin to a group of slaves who were members of our first congregation of Union Church, which was founded in Atlanta in 1847. Our history has included: from Union Church on Peachtree Street to Bethel Tabernacle on Jenkins Street; and from Old Bethel--on then Wheat Street--to its current site at the corner of Auburn Avenue and Jesse Hill, Jr., Drive. In 1976, In recognition of the historical significance of Big Bethel AME Church, the National Register of Historical Places placed it on its roster.
Big Bethel has hosted leaders of the United States and the world, including Presidents William Howard Taft, Jimmy Carter, and William Jefferson Clinton; Marcus Garvey; Mary McLeod Bethune; and Nelson Mandela.
Throughout our history our congregation has reached out to improve educational opportunities in the Atlanta community by serving as the birthplace of the first school for African American children and of Morris Brown College.
“Heaven Bound,” a modern morality play, was written and first produced by Big Bethel members in 1930; was performed at the Little White House in Warm Springs, GA, for President Franklin D. Roosevelt; was the opening feature at the world premiere of the motion picture “Gone With the Wind”; and was presented to an international audience during the 1996 Summer Olympic Games held in Atlanta. “Heaven Bound” will celebrate its 77th annual presentations in November.
Since Big Bethel is located in the heart of the Sweet Auburn District, our concern for the improvement of economic and social conditions in Atlanta has resulted in partnerships with The Integral Group: Renaissance Walk at Sweet Auburn Condominiums and Lofts; Trinity United Methodist Church: Trinity House-Big Bethel, a transitional shelter that is designed to serve homeless men with substance dependency; Big Bethel Village, a retirement community for seniors in Southwest Atlanta; the Cathedral of Saint Philip Episcopal Church and Habitat for Humanity; and Bethel Towers Apartments.
A schedule of the 160th anniversary events follows:
Big Bethel Schedule of 160th Anniversary Events
October 7, 3:00 p.m. - “Pilgrimage to Oakland Cemetery,” ancestral wreath laying service
October 13:
- 7:30 a.m. - Morris Brown College Scholarship Walk-a-Thon, beginning at the Georgia State Capitol.
- 9:00 a.m. - Church-wide Seminar (pre-registration suggested)
- 1:00 p.m. Church Picnic, Amphitheatre
October 17, 7:00 p.m. - Worship & Praise Service—The Rev. Hayward White, guest preacher, and congregation, Turner Monumental AME Church, Atlanta
- October 20, 7:00 p.m. - Anniversary Legacy Banquet, Sheraton Atlanta Hotel, guest speaker: Patricia Russell McCloud, J.D.
October 21: 160th Anniversary Worship Services - 7:45 and 11:00 a.m.
Bishop McKinley Young, Presiding Prelate 11th Episcopal District and former Big
Bethel Pastor will be the Guest Preacher.
October 24, 5:00 p.m. - Organ Concert, Philip Skerrett, Organist
November 9 and 10, 7:00 p.m. - Heaven Bound, an African American morality drama celebrates its 77th year performances
For additional information phone the church office at 404-827-9707, or email the church at: jesus.saves@bigbethelame.org
6. INDIA IS …WHAT’S RIGHT WITH THE AME CHURCH:
Rev. Terry Marks
Much can be said regarding what’s wrong with the African Methodist Episcopal Church. Some consider our worship services too long, too liturgical or too lavish; relative to what’s wrong. We are often maligned that our pastors are poorly compensated; our buildings, poorly constructed and our congregants, poor contributors. Like the children of Israel wandering in the wilderness, it is easy to murmur and complain while on detour to God’s destination.
Yet, when I consider Bishop John R. Bryant and Episcopal Supervisor Rev. Dr. Cecelia Williams Bryant’s bold move to establish 20 new AME churches in India, I am proud to be a member of the church of Allen. It didn’t take the well-mobilized Red Cross, the well-funded Catholic Church or some other televangelistic ministry as motivation to embark on this mission. There were neither 1-800 numbers nor infomercials to avail. Rather, this work required the joint efforts of a preacher’s somewhat prodigal son and a daughter of New York’s projects who long ago were envisioned with a desire to impact the world. Through Bishop Bryant’s leadership and strategist’s mentality, we are led to invade the right country for the right cause. To make straight his path, Rev. C. has leveled logistical mountains via grass-roots missionary campaigns and empowerment of the Holy Spirit. It is an endeavor fueled by YPD carwashes, missionary dues, choir concerts, and the generosity of congregations and prayers of the faithful.
India is what’s right with the AME Church. It is our own “audacity of hope” long shared over two centuries throughout this land of the free and in oppressed places of bondage abroad. It is the legacy of the Four Horsemen (including Bishop William Paul Quinn’s birth country), now exhibited and proclaimed by the children of the third and fourth generations. It is another in a long list of “firsts” as it relates historically and spiritually to the AME church. It is … what’s right with the AME Church.
The Fifth District-sponsored journey to India provides resounding evidence that faith in the great commission of Jesus Christ surges alive and well in African Methodism. Therefore, let us join together in unity and financial support. Let us rally around this great work of the Cross with much prayer and fasting. Throughout the month of October and during the mission dates, November 11th – 19th, I invite you to journey through the book of Acts and maintain an active schedule of prayer, fasting and meditation. Together, let us touch and agree that this history-making journey shall bring glory to God our Father, Christ our Redeemer and spread the gospel to men and women, our Brothers and Sisters, in Chennai, India. Together, let us shout for joy and stand in agreement that India is … what’s right with the AME Church.
Our Prayer:
Heavenly Father, long ago You commissioned the Apostle Paul to spread the gospel of Your Son, Jesus Christ, to a people considered unworthy to have fellowship with those in power. You required that he journey to foreign lands. Often times, You required that the mission be funded by the sweat of his brow and the sufficiency of Your grace. Through obedience to Your great command, the world was turned upside down (Acts 17).
Once again, You now commission the Leaders of a church founded by outsiders and a people considered unworthy by the power elite. You have instructed us to follow Paul’s lead and journey to a foreign land for the sake of the gospel. We are humbled by Your call and Your confidence. We declare that Your grace remains ever as sufficient now as it was with Paul. Grant us, therefore, the fortune and favor of Your Son, Jesus Christ and the power of Your Holy Spirit to make disciples in this uttermost part of the world. Grant us now, Your traveling grace and mercy. Grant us now, the authority to move mountains and subdue nations. In Your Son Jesus’ name ~ Amen.
Prayer and Meditation Schedule for the Week of:
October 1 – 7: Pray for the Funding of the Mission;
Meditate on Acts, chapters 1 - 4
October 8 – 14: Pray for the Health and Strength of the Missionaries;
Meditate on Acts, chapters 5 - 8
October 15 – 21: Pray for the Teaching and Preaching Power of the Missionaries; Meditate on Acts, chapters 9 - 12
October 22 – 28: Pray for the People of India and Their Reception to the Gospel; Meditate on Acts, chapters 13 - 16
October 29 – Nov. 4: Pray for the new Indian pastors and clergy families; Meditate on Acts, chapters 17 - 20
November 5 – 11: Pray for the new AME India churches/congregations; Meditate on Acts, chapters 21 - 24
November 12 – 19: Pray for a mission accomplished and safe return trip home; Meditate on Acts, chapters 25 - 28
7. THE CELESTIAL ANGELIC VOICES OF ANGELS, THE MASS CHOIR OF WARD CHAPEL AME CHURCH:
41st Homecoming Celebration and 113th Church Anniversary to be held on Sunday October 7th 2007, at Ward Chapel A.M.E. Church, 431 24th Street South, Bessemer, Alabama 35020. Come and be blessed as you hear the Celestial Angelic Voices of Angels, the Mass Choir of Ward Chapel A.M.E. Church, and hear a Holy Ghost Filled Message by the Reverend Thomas L. Franklin. We ask that you share with us as we lift up the name of Jesus, for truly he is worthy to be praised.
Submitted by Brother Kelvin J. Anthony, Licentiate, Ward Chapel A.M.E. Church, Bessemer, Alabama
8. CONVO X – ANOTHER REPORT – GOVERNANCE AND ORDER:
Rev. Richard E. Tankerson
CONVO X provided a glimpse of the A.M.E. Church, both Blessed and Challenged, as we move toward the close of another quadrennial. Consistent with the theme: “Governance and Order,” the sessions embraced questions/issues of Order, Authority, and Leadership. Bishop McKinley Young, CONVO Chair, stated: “Some say that the A.M.E. Church is “out of order” without central leadership providing coherent direction for all of African Methodism.” We were challenged to think through questions such as:
` Who Is Going To Lead?
` Who Is Leading Now?
` Who Will Be Selected To Lead?
` How Will We Get An Orderly Process Started?
` Where Can We Find A Leader Who Is Capable, Trustworthy, Fears The Lord, and, Is Searching For A Better Way?
[COMMENTARY] In my opinion, we could have exhausted the total time allotted on the provocative question: “Does the Church have Effective Central Leadership, which is Providing Consistent/Coherent Direction?” Additionally, we could have discussed the need for a “Prelacy” with less A.M.E. Popery/Polity, which is used in a derogatory manner as “Raw Power.” This alone, renders the “Present Age” church devoid of a cohesive compass. A partial remedy would be a magnanimous dosage of Institutional Latitudinarianism, which would restore African Methodism to an earlier purity based on Isaiah, St. John, St. Paul, and Bishop Richard Allen.
Section A
Upon reflection, the prepared agenda offered noteworthy, “high energy” topics. There were several outstanding speeches, presentations, platitudes, discussions and short sermons. However, few offered discernable implementation stratagem for reestablishing Order in the corporate A.M.E. organism. Some notable presentations included:
Bishop William P. DeVeaux spoke eloquently, in his Homily, on the Biblical/Historical basis upon which Governance and Order has been established for “The Church.” The audience appropriately acknowledged Bishop DeVeaux’s presentation. This presentation reflected favorably upon Bishop DeVeaux’s preparation and scholarship, and is worthy of broader exposure.
Bishop Adam J. Richardson presided over a session entitled: “Governance and Order, Issues, Concerns and Challenges for the A.M.E. Church”
A panel of church notables presented an enlightening cross-view of historic and contemporary observations on: what has been the focus of the church; what should be the focus of the church; and, what has proven successful (i.e. The Reid Temple – Bowie, MD story)? Some notable quotables were:
Dr. Dennis Dickerson – “We need to develop a budgeting process which incorporates a realistic projection of Support Personnel to ensure efficiency in our Church Departments. Mission and Ministry should represent our “Measure of Accountability” (i.e., Stewardship and Accountability).”
Rev. Ralph L. Wilson – “The church needs an institutionalized form of training for the Office of Presiding Elder. The present system of promotion lacks credibility and confidence. The role of the Laity needs to be redefined. We need a vastly revised “Class Leader System.” We should purge the church of old systems which seek to justify themselves without regard for the ultimate impact.”
Rev. Henrietta Scott-Fuller – “Church organizations are “Living Organisms.” Each level seems to be competing with the other. The Class Leader System needs to be revised. We must eradicate “Strange Doctrines” out of the church.
Mrs. Jamesina Evans – The church needs a functional Lay Ministry, which is representative and participatory. Evans raised issues such as:
- How Can We Improve The Quarterly Conference?
- How Can We Install A System Of Voting At All Levels?
- How Can We Provide Time To Deliberate On Annual Conference Papers?
- How Can We “Really Hear” From Our Local Congregations?
“The Episcopal Leaders ought to turn the people loose, and witness what the Lord can do!”
The Rev. Dr. Lee P. Washington – There is a need for “Succession Planning” to include a system for “Coaching Unseasoned Pastors” to lead successfully. We need to reduce the conflict, which is the consequence of lack of accountability. Leadership promotes strength. We should move toward a system of “Transformational Collaboration.”
[COMMENTARY] With few exceptions, little of what was presented during this session represented new material, or innovative solutions. To the contrary, so much of what was shared was old stuff with seriously flawed suggested remedies. No wonder that a large contingency of attendees were socializing in the corridors of the hotel. This snafu may have been the consequence of the panelist being unclear on the objective of the session, or, the audience may have experienced an overdose of de-ja vous.
Section B
Bishop John H. Adams presided over a session entitled: “Governance and Order as reflected in Judicial Administration on Sexual Misconduct”
Rev. Linda Mouzon gave a well-prepared analytical review of the existing “Sexual Misconduct” (SM) Policy with “Recommendations for Modifications.” What Rev. Mouzon presented was a radical departure from the mostly heretofore, mundane
treatment of Sexual Misconduct at all levels of the church. Some of the proposed modifications to the existing policy include requirements that:
1. All candidates for itinerant orders shall be furnished with a copy of the (SM) Policy prior to admission to the Board of Examiners…They will be required to sign a statement certifying that they have read, understood, and agreed to comply with the policy.
2. All candidates for itinerant or local orders and Pastors receiving a first pastoral assignment or move to a different pastoral assignment shall undergo a mandatory background check. The background check will include a National Criminal History Background Check and a clearance check through the local Child Protective Service Agency.
3. The Ministerial Efficiency Committee (MEC) shall establish a Sexual Misconduct Subcommittee (SMS) to investigate complaints against clergy. Membership of the SMS will include one member of the MEC, two clergy persons and two lay persons. Consideration will be given to ensuring gender balance in the composition of the SMS. The MEC will ensure that a list of expert consultants knowledgeable about sexual misconduct is available to the SMS, which includes at a minimum a lawyer and mental health professional. The SMS will choose a chair and secretary when it is charged to investigate a complaint.
There are six or more proposed modifications, which deal with the conduct of the SMS when conducting an investigation, record keeping, and the logistics for establishing a Trial Committee to adjudicate the case if the SMS determines probable cause.
[COMMENTARY] There is no equivocation or debate on the necessity for a “Zero Tolerance Policy” on Sexual Misconduct. However, there are several provisions of the proposed modifications with serious financial implications for the budget process. The proposed modifications do not clearly address the financial responsibilities for the implementation of the system as presently drafted. Obviously, much more needs to be done to take a Sexual Misconduct Complaint from the point of accusation to the point of final conciliation. Whose responsibility is it to fund the Extensive System-Wide Training, Criminal Background Screenings, Professional Counselors, Attorneys, Monetary Settlements, secured record maintenance, and related events throughout the Sexual Misconduct Complaints Processing system? An accurate “Budget Impact Analysis” is a necessary adjunct to the ultimate presentation of these proposed Sexual Misconduct Policy Modifications.
Social Action Event (Not on the Agenda)
Bishop Carol Tyler-Guidry, who presides over The Commission on Social Action, presented a letter w/comments to the assembled body, on the subject of the “Jena, La. 6,” their penal circumstances, and pending criminal trials. The letter was addressed to the LaSalle Parish District Attorney, Reed Walters, and copied to Governor Kathleen Blanco. In summary, the letter strongly stated the A.M.E. Church’s opposition to the pending
trials and the inappropriate nature of the charges filed against the young Black High School students. During the presentation and discussion, a suggestion was made that the letter be copied to the U.S. White House and the U.S. Attorney General. The body fully approved the content and intent of the document, and acknowledged the same by co-signing it for immediate release.
Section C
Bishop Phillip R. Cousin, Sr., presided over a session entitled: “Funding the Witness, Work and Ministries of the A.M.E. Church. Budget Projections for 2009-2012.”
Bishop Cousin reminded the assembly that our budget problems currently could be traced back to the initialization of the budget process at the General Conference of 1956 in Miami, Florida. The clarion call then was: “Fo' and No Mo,” (Translation: “ Four Dollars per Member Budget Assessments, and No More”). Bishop Cousin also floated the idea that our general membership is not serious about Tithing therefore; we should require the membership to present their Federal W2 Income Tax forms at Budget Support Pledge Time. This would allow the Pastors to assist their members in determining their “True Tithing” obligation for the Conference Year.
Bishop C. Garnett Henning, Sr., made challenging remarks suggesting, “Church Growth and Development Goals should become an intentional adjunct to Connectional Budget Planning.” In his opinion, a New Budget devoid of Church Growth and Development goals is automatically flawed.
Dr. Richard Allen Lewis was presented to provide an overview of the “Major Points of Consideration for the Statistics and Finance Commission.”
For the purposes of this report, I will highlight a plethora of salient points made by Dr. Lewis as he eloquently shared challenges and possibilities pertinent to the pending budget and related legislation.
1. Vision Statement – Provide a fiscally sound budget to lead the AME Church into the future.
2. Goals and Objectives – Fully Fund AMEC Budget Items; No Un-funded Budget Items; No Under-funded Budget Items.
3. How Did We Get Here? – Prior Un-funded Budget Items; Prior Under-funded Budget Items; Failure to Make (Mandated) Quarterly Budget Payments; Failure to Make Annual Budget Assessments in A Timely Manner; [*Continued Increased Borrowing/Interest Rates]. *This item was presented later in Dr. Lewis’ presentation.
Some of the Un-funded burdens on the financial system include, but are not limited to: funding for the 16th Episcopal District’ Episcopal Residence; Additional Bishops Travel (a historically uncapped item which has spiraled out of control exponentially); AMEC Redistricting Meetings and Related Activities.
Some of the Under-funded burdens on the financial system includes, but are not limited to: Bishops Widow Stipends and Support; General Conference Planning and Logistics Costs; Legal Fees (a historically under-funded item); General Board Meetings and Fiduciary Decisions that Require the CFO to “Find a Way;” Council of Bishops Meetings and Fiduciary Decisions that Require the CFO to “Find a Way.”
The CFO was very precise in proposing “Cash Flow Solutions” for the short and long term, namely:
A. All Districts making the Quarterly Budget Payments (Mandated in 1996, reaffirmed in 2000)
B. CFO Receiving 50% of the Approved Budget by Sept. 15th
C. CFO Receiving Total of the Approved Budget by Mar. 15th
D. A Balance Sheet Reflecting ZERO Budget Receivables by Mar. 31st
E. A ¼ Advanced Budget Payment at the Close of the 2008 Gen. Conf.
F. Expense and Revenue Increases Directly Linked per applicable Line Item
G. FIXED % of Revenue to Exceed Anticipated Expenses (Contingency)
Dr. Lewis offered that the accomplishment of the above objectives would result in the following cash flow solutions:
` Timely Investment of Allocated Budgeted Funds
` Timely Budget Payments – All Episcopal Districts
` Reduced Interest Cost on Borrowed Gap-Financing of Monthly Obligations
` Improved Funds/Cash Flow Management
` Reduced/Eliminated End of Year Budget Fund Receivables
` Stronger Overall Fiscal Position
The Bottom Line Proposed: The CFO is recommending that the 2009-2012 Budget include a minimum 3.3% YR 09, and a 2% CPI (Consumer Price Index Increase) YRS 2010-12 on all budgeted items, and increase General Conference Set Asides from $300,000 to $500,000 annually with a stipulated cap on future General Conference expense increases. The 2012 General Conference will cost a Minimum of $4M for the basic provisional expenses.
Throughout this presentation Bishop Gregory G.M. Ingram interrupted the CFO to raise the question: “What Is New About This Budget?” Dr. Lewis restated three times: “Nothing, other than my determination to set aside $500,000 to fund the 2012 General Conference!”
[COMMENTARY] The Connectional Budget of the AMEC is an estimate of future operational transactions, planned by the General Board and approved by the General Conference. The General Board is charged with the responsibility to: 1) develop a budget draft which outlines the general financial obligations of the church, and the amount to be apportioned for the various departments; and 2) receive and disburse general funds, in accordance with the budget approved by the General Conference. In 44+ years as a Pastor, a former member of the General Board, Delegate to numerous General Conferences, and a former Accountant in the Finance Department of the AMEC, I have been constantly troubled, by our flawed Budget Development System. It bothers me that we pass legislation with major budget impact, after we have approved the Connectional Budget. It bothers me that the General Board and/or the Council of Bishops continues to impose “Let the CFO Find A Way” items on a Budget which is already in deficit status upon approval. It bothers me that there are no “Budget Performance Measures” established for any of the Departments of the church, including the Finance Department. It bothers me that the General Constituency of the church has no role in the Budget Development Process other than that of “Ultimate Payee (It is true that District Members of the General Board are expected to Represent their constituent Districts. However, rarely, if ever, does a General Board member report to his/her constituent group, or solicit its input on budget development matters). It bothers me that the Positive Law of the church regarding the requirement that Episcopal Districts make scheduled/timely Quarterly Payments to the CFO’s Office is being blatantly violated with no recourse to the church, or threat of consequence for the perpetrators. It bothers me that the CFO has to sing the same desperately sad “Budget Bewilderment Song,” quadrennial after quadrennial. It all reminds me of a quote that I read recently which stated: “It is true that we have changed the Dancers, but the Music remains the same!”
As a partial response to our Budget Bewilderment Song, I have pledged to co-develop proposed legislation that would”
1. Require the CFO to Certify the anticipated Budget Impact of each Bill forwarded for a “Second Reading.”
2. Require Annual Performance Measures for all Departmental Budget Recipients, including the Finance Department.
3. Require the CFO to Publish Episcopal District Quarterly Budget Payments, to include: date received/date due, amount received/amount due, etc.
4. Restrict/Prohibit passage of Bills with Budget Impact, AFTER passage of the Connectional Budget.
We know that the 48th Session of the General Conference is less than 285 days away from being convened in St. Louis, Missouri, July 4-11, 2008. It is very important that we finally get the Budget System “Right!” Some potential pitfalls to be cautious of are:
A. The effort to add more Delegates in 2012, as is being proposed by the Second Episcopal District. The CFO has cautioned that the proposed addition will exacerbate the cost of the event.
B. The $1M cost to fund the travel and sustentation for the Delegates from Episcopal Districts 14-20. These Districts account for approx. 30% of the cost to convene the General Conference.
C. Will we need another General Conference Special Assessment of $1,760 per Delegate, to support our “Over Seas” Delegations?
D. How will we accommodate the Budget Shortfall of the 8th Episcopal District, due to the well documented “Acts of Nature?
E. Can we continue to fund the generous stipends, which we have historically dolled out to member representatives of various Boards, and Commissions?
Bishop John H. Adams is proposing a Bill that will establish a 7% set aside of the General Budget into a “Reserve Development Fund.” The Interest and Earnings from this fund will be protected, via policy, from withdrawals, use as collateral, or loan, etc. After a designated period of incubation, up to 80% of the earnings may be used after 2016, to fund the General Budget, while 20% would be reinvested into the Corpus of the Reserve Investment Fund. The purposes are to: a) reduce Budget requirements on the local churches; and b) provide financial security to the General Church.
Section D.
Bishop Richard F. Norris presided over the session entitled: “A Report from Strategic Planning on Restructure, Reorganization and Redistricting” Bishop Vashti M. McKenzie presented the general substance of the “AME Strategic Implementation Handbook.” She introduced the Consultants from “Success Results Consulting, Inc.” who has had primary responsibility for developing the strategic planning process. The items presented and discussed are a work in progress, they were, by title:
1. Strategic Thrust 1 – Enhance Church Growth
2. Strategic Thrust 2 – Improve Leadership & Management
3. Strategic Thrust 3 – Support Christian Character
4. Strategic Thrust 4 – Enhance Spiritual Growth & Development
5. Strategic Thrust 5 – Enhance Economic Growth & Fiduciary Accountability
6. Strategic Thrust 6 – Embrace Diversity
7. Strategic Thrust 7 – Improve Educational, Growth & Development
8. Strategic Thrust 8 – Enhance Global Ministry
The Handbook is structured so that it answers the following questions for each Strategic Thrust:
1. What is the recommendation?
2. Is there a process or structure already in place to get the recommendation implemented?
3. If so, what is the process or structure?
4. If not, what structure should be developed or what needs to be done to get this recommendation implemented?
5. Who are the people needed at the table to get the job done?
6. What is the specific change strategy that should be in place to support the Church as it attains its goals?
[COMMENTARY] The draft document reflects much time, thought, and expense. The document acknowledges, “In some cases, the AMEC may lack the specific structure necessary to carry out some aspects of the plan.” There is no doubt that the planning document will evoke many lengthy discussions when its content is released to the general constituency of the church.
It was stressed that the Strategic Planning Process and the CONNECTIONAL CONVO events are separate and apart in scope and function. The next Strategic Planning Session will convene in Raleigh, NC at the site of the WMS meeting.
Section E.
Bishop William P. DeVeaux presided over a session entitled: “Legislative Proposals and Ideas Regarding Legislation.” During this session Mr. Jesse Burns, President - Connectional Lay Organization presented the substance of proposed Bills, which were approved by the Lay Biennial of 2007. The Bills by title are:
A) Committee On Ministerial Efficiency
B) Employee Assistance Program
C) Presiding Elder District Budget
D) Election of Delegates to the Annual Conference
E) Young Adult Delegate to the Annual Conference
F) Episcopal District Budget
G) The Bi-Centennial AME Encyclopedia
H) Making the song “God our Father, Christ our Redeemer, Man our Brother, the AMEC Anthem.
I) Re-establishing Pastor’s Responsibilities
[COMMENTARY] Based upon the general low-keyed response to this presentation, the Connectional Lay Organization will need to work harder to gather steam for the support of most of their proposed legislation. The Bill causing the most noise and interest had to do with item F “Episcopal District Budget,” which proposes that the District Lay Organization be allocated 4% of the adopted Episcopal District Budget.
Section F
Bishop E. Earl McCloud, Jr. presided over a session entitled: “Representation and Governance Concerns at the General Conference.” The presentations by the Reverends: Conrad K. Pridgen, Darryl Walker, and James L. Byrd turned out to be a well-crafted proposal to reformulate the criteria for determining the 2012 General Conference Delegation count, per Episcopal District. Since the presentation was not distributed in hard copy, it was impossible to evaluate the efficacy of the proposal, or its numerical accuracy. Therefore, I will withhold judgment on the matter until additional information becomes available.
FINALLY, CONVO XI will convene April 14-15, 2008 in Houston, TX. The General Board will meet on April 16 in Houston. The CONVO Agenda will include the following proposed Areas of Consideration:
`` Faith, Order, Ministry and Mission
`` General Budget and Funding the Ministry
`` A Proposal for the Educational Ministry of the Church
`` Advancing Legislation to the Revisions Committee
This Ends The Report To The San Antonio District of the Southwest Texas Conference, of the AMEC.
Rev. Richard E. Tankerson
21222 La Pena Dr.
San Antonio, TX 78258
rtankerson@satx.rr.com
9. AME YOUTH TO FIGHT HUNGER IN THE 2008 SOUPER BOWL OF CARING:
In 1990, a Super Bowl Sunday prayer inspired a group of young people to do something more than celebrate a football game. They created the Souper Bowl of Caring, a simple service activity that has grown into a national movement of God’s grace including tens of thousands of young people across the country.
In 2007, over 14,000 youth groups participated, collecting over $8 million for charities across the country. 469 AME congregations took part in this Connectional YPD Outreach Project and collected almost $80,000! The Souper Bowl of Caring is easy—youth collect $1 donations in soup pots on Super Bowl Sunday. All you have to do is:
- REGISTER at www.souperbowl.org to receive your free resource kit with all of the materials you will need to plan and promote your event
- COLLECT donations on Super Bowl Sunday, February 3, 2008
- REPORT your collection at www.souperbowl.org
- DONATE 100% of your collection to the hunger-related charity of your choice. No money comes to Souper Bowl of Caring
The Souper Bowl of Caring is unique, because every dollar collected is donated directly to the hunger-related charity selected by each congregation. Mrs. Paulette Cryer, Connectional YPD Director, rejoices over “the young people of the AME churches that reached out to help hungry and hurting neighbors through Souper Bowl of Caring.”
Since the Souper Bowl of Caring began, more than $41 million has been generated for those in need. This year with your help, more lives will be changed, more dollars will be raised and more young people will experience the joy of serving Christ by serving others. Join in this unique opportunity to share God’s love with those who are in need.
Register today at www.souperbowl.org.
Connectional Y.P.D. Outreach Project
Connectional Y.P.D. Director, Mrs. Paulette Cryer
Connectional Y.P.D. President, Mr. Reginald Cleaver
Souper Bowl of Caring Board of Director’s Member, Mrs. Adrienne A. Morris
10. DON'T MAKE WAR IN IRAN, GET US TROOPS OUT OF IRAQ, WCC EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE SAYS:
The US and its allies must "settle the dispute over Iran's nuclear programme through negotiations and not through the use of military force," stated the World Council of Churches (WCC) executive committee at its 25-28 September meeting in Etchmiadzin, Armenia.
In a "Minute on Iran and the Middle East regional crisis," the WCC governing body calls on the Council's member churches to "impress upon their governments" this "acute concern" and to encourage them to convey it to the US and its allies. "Threats to begin another war in the Middle East defy the lessons of both history and ethics," the committee says. "The region and its people must not suffer another war, let alone one that is unlawful, immoral and ill-conceived once again."
Referring to "the belligerent stance of the US toward Iran and [to the] Iranian threats against the US and Israel," the committee affirms that "negotiated solutions are the only path to peace for the Middle East". The minute recommends "US-Iranian and multi-party negotiations," and affirms that the stance "against attacking Iran seeks protection for all the populations involved, including the US and Israeli publics".
According to the WCC governing body, these negotiations "must include Iranian compliance with International Atomic Energy Agency and United Nations Security Council directives and US adherence to its 1995 pledge against nuclear weapons use against non-nuclear signatories of the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) including Iran". On the other hand, Israel's "prompt and unconditional accession to the NPT as called for by the UN General Assembly" is also demanded.
"The withdrawal of all US forces from Iraq and the implementation of alternative Iraqi and multilateral political, economic and security programs" is one amongst a series of regional parameters for peace affirmed by the WCC governing body.
The full text of the WCC executive committee Minute on Iran and the Middle East regional crisis is available at:
http://www.oikoumene.org/?id=4239
See also the WCC executive committee Statement on Iraq and its Christian communities:
http://www.oikoumene.org/?id=4238
11. AME ACTIVE YPD AND LEE CHAPEL MEMBER (NASHVILLE) KILLED ON MEMPHIS CAMPUS:
Taylor Alexander Bradford was a member of Lee Chapel AME Church and was an active YPDer and participated in the 13th Episcopal District Youth Congresses. Brother John Thomas III says that Brother Taylor Bradford “was a life-long member of Lee Chapel AME Church in Nashville and was always at Christian Education Congress and active in the YPD. Bishop Vashti Murphy McKenzie and others have called to share their dismay that this tragic event happened. We will send out a message about the funeral arrangements as soon as it’s received.
YPDers from across the Episcopal District and across the Church are encouraged to attend the funeral to support the family in this, their time of bereavement.
His remains will lie in state on Friday at Lee Chapel AME Church, 1732 Scoval St, Nashville on Friday, October 5, 2007 from 5:-8:30 p.m. followed by Kappa Alpha Psi Memorial Service at 8:30 p.m.
Family visitation is Saturday, October 6, 2007 from Noon to 1 p.m. with the funeral to follow at The House of God Church, Inc., 28th and Helman Streets in Nashville. The Rev. Lee Thompson, pastor of Lee Chapel will officiate.
12. UPDATE – 8TH EPISCOPAL DISTRICT:
The 8th District schedule has changed: the Louisiana Annual Conference is opening on Tuesday, October 30 - 10:00 a.m. and will be held at the Sheraton Hotel - 102 France Road, in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. The WMS Convention will be held on October 29th. The Celebration Banquet, celebrating the 150th Year of the Louisiana Conference will be held on the evening of the opening of the conference, October 30, 2007 at 7:00 p.m. Banquet tickets donations are $75.00 each.
13. CLERGY FAMILY CONGRATULATORY NOTICE:
- Reverend & Mrs. Charles (Jeanette P.) Singleton of the 7th Episcopal District recently celebrated 50 beautiful years of marriage, September 7, 1957 - September 7, 2007. Reverend Charles Singleton, a superannuated AME pastor (38 years) and a retired educator; Mrs. Jeanette P. Singleton an active WMS Life Member and retired educator were "beaming" as their children - Charnette E. Singleton, Mr. & Mrs. Charles P. Singleton, Mr. & Mrs. Charlton P. Singleton and their four grandchildren saw them off on a 7-day Alaskan Cruise.
14. EPISCOPAL FAMILY BEREAVEMENT:
Mrs. JoAnn Barker Guidry, mother of the Late Supervisor Donovan Guidry and mother-in-law of Bishop Carolyn Tyler Guidry passed on Tuesday, October 2, 2007.
Service arrangements for Mrs. JoAnn Barker Guidry:
Funeral
Saturday, October 6, 2007
10:30 AM
Grant AME Church
10435 S. Central Avenue
Los Angeles, California 90002
Phone: (323) 564-1151
Office Fax: (323) 564-5027
Reverend Leslie R. White, Pastor
Professional services entrusted to:
Simpson's Family Mortuary
3443 W. Manchester Blvd
Inglewood, CA 90305
Phone (323) 752-5524
Fax (323) 752- 7710
Interment:
Rose Hill Memorial Park
3888 Workman Mill Road
Whittier, CA 90601
Phone (562) 699-0921
Expressions of sympathy may be sent to:
Bishop Carolyn Tyler Guidry and Family
3527 Olympiad Dr.
Los Angeles, CA 90043
Phone: (323) 293-6555
E-mail: GirlBishop122@aol.com
15. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
We regret to inform you of the passing of Sister Gwen Tolliver Luster. She was the wife of the Reverend Donald C. Luster, pastor of Bethel AME Church in Bridgeport, Connecticut (New England Conference, Boston-Hartford District). The following information has been provided regarding funeral arrangements.
Funeral - Saturday, October 6, 2007
Funeral - 11:00 a.m.
Bethel AME Church
110 Grove Street
Bridgeport, CT 06605
Phone: 203-384-9200
Fax: 203-384-1056
Rev. Donald C. Luster, Pastor and Eulogist
Expressions of Sympathy may be sent to:
Rev. Donald C. Luster
254 Folino Drive
Bridgeport, CT 06606
or
c/o Bethel AME Church
110 Grove Street
Bridgeport, CT 06605
Please remember the family of Sister Gwen Tolliver Luster in your prayers.
16. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
Mrs. Ethel Graham Franklin, mother of the Rev. Benjamin Franklin, Jr., pastor of Mt. Zion AME, Mansfield, Georgia and mother-in-law of Mrs. Gloria Morley-Franklin, President of the ANGC Ministers' Spouses, Widows and Widowers Plus PKs, passed on Thursday, September 20, 2007.
The funeral had already been held.
Condolences may be sent to:
Reverend Benjamin Franklin & Family
1141 Crooked Creek Road
Lithonia, GA 30058
770-484-0976
17. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
The Rev. Richard A. Thigpen, Sr., a retired Itinerant Elder died on Saturday, September 29th in Hollywood, FL. Rev. Thigpen retired from the active ministry in 2004 after serving for more than forty years as a pastor in the West Coast, Central, and the South Conferences in the Eleventh Episcopal District.
He is survived by his wife, Johnnie Mae Stewart Thigpen; Children, Cheryl T. Jackson of Luray, SC; Richard Thigpen, Jr. of Killeen, TX and Valerie Thomas of Lithia Springs, GA. He is also survived by grandchildren and two sisters, Dr. Nettie Deskin of Jacksonville, AR and Mrs. Hazel Royster of Washington, DC.
Wake for Rev. Richard A. Thigpen, Sr.
Friday, October 5, 2007
5 PM to 8 PM
Mt. Pleasant AME Church
2341 Forrest Street
Hollywood, FL 33020
Telephone: 954-921-5756
Fax: 954-921-5109
Funeral Services for Rev. Richard A. Thigpen, Sr.
Saturday, October 6, 2007
11:00 a.m.
Mount Zion AME Church
215 NW 5th Avenue
Dania Beach, FL 33004
Phone 954-927-6703
Rev. Dr. Melvin Kennerly, Pastor
Services entrusted to:
Davis Brice Funeral Home
608 SW 12th Avenue
Dania, Florida 33004
Telephone: 954-921-5150
Fax: 954-921-5208
or 866-632-7423
Expressions of sympathy may be sent to:
Mrs. Johnnie Mae Stewart Thigpen
2235 Charleston Street
Hollywood, FL 33020-1229
Telephone: 954-923-3464
18. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
I wish to inform you of the homegoing of the Rev. Dora Ware, a faithful and devoted local elder in the African Methodist Episcopal Church who served at St. Mark AMEC in Wilkinsburg, Pennsylvania for many years. She passed from labor to reward on Saturday, September 29, 2007. She is the mother of the Rev. Samuel Ware, the pastor at Bethel AME Church in Monroeville, PA.
The Funeral has been held.
Condolences may be sent to:
743 N. Beatty Street
Pittsburgh, PA 15206
(412-378-1142)
19. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICES AND CONGRATULATORY ANNOUNCEMENTS PROVIDED BY:
The Clergy Family Information Center
Bishop Carolyn Tyler Guidry, Chair
Commission on Social Action
Ora L. Easley, Administrator
AMEC Clergy Family Information Center
E-mail: Amespouses1@bellsouth.net
Phone: (615) 837-9736
Voice Mail: (615) 833-6936
Fax: (615) 833-3781
Cell: (615) 403-7751
20. 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
9/27/2007
THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER ONLINE ENGLISH EDITION (9/27/07)
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. EDITORIAL – “THE TIME HAS COME; NO, THE TIME IS PAST…”:
Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III
Do you realize that 2008 is almost upon us?
At the CONVO in 1999 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, I stood up and cautioned those in attendance that the new millennium of the 21st Century was fast approaching and that it was important that we, as a Church, needed to embrace technology and move along the “information highway,” into the 21st Century, with the rest of the world community.
About thirty email addresses were collected, and a group of us who had computers and was connected to the Internet began to exchange and share information about what was going on in the AME Church. We didn’t know it at the time, but that was the genesis of The Christian Recorder Online.
The AME Church had technology pioneers prior to the Philadelphia CONVO that included, A.M.E. Today that was published by the late Rev. John Fisher. Other pioneers included the Rev. Alton Paris, Brother and Sister Eric and Stephanie Stradford; Brother James H. S. Smith (Smitty), a layman from the Baltimore area, and later the A.M.E. Herald published by the Rev. Denise Rogers, and others. The AME Church had visionaries, and even though we got off to a slow start, we got off to a start.
And, though we got off to a slow start, a number, of our pastors and laity, are computer-savvy and churches are connected to the internet. But, we have stalled in areas where there is no reason for us, as a Church, to be mired.
For example, simple areas such as Annual Pastors’ Reports, Quarterly Conference Reports, and reports to the General Secretary are still being submitted in paper format. This is absolutely ludicrous, seven years; almost eight years into the new millennium. We can do better!
The time has come for the bishops of the Church to courageously exercise their Godly judgment in the areas of progress and technology in the Church, to say to presiding elders and pastors, “As of a certain date, say, February 14, 2008, all reports will be submitted electronically. No more paper reports!”
Presiding elders need to be courageous and say to pastors, “As of, say, February 14, 2008, no more paper Quarterly Conference reports; all Quarterly Conference reports will be submitted electronically!”
Pastors should be courageous and say to heads of local church boards, “All local church reports will be submitted to the pastor electronically as of February 14, 2008.”
We are living in the age of technology and technology is not going away; it’s here to stay and technology is being updated daily, and even hourly.
I would hope that every church has a telephone today. Well, we are now at the point where every church should have a computer and be connected to the internet.
Some pastors and local church leaders might have blurred vision, but our bishops and presiding elders must have a clear vision for the Church and the wherewithal to make executive leadership decisions that will facilitate operational efficiencies and church growth.
An effective organization does not operate on laissez-faire leadership. There comes a point in any organization where decisions have to be made and organizational deadlines established and obeyed.
Some might argue that we have a lot of small local churches that are financially constrained and pastors and presiding elders who are not computer-savvy. Computers are relatively inexpensive and people are upgrading their personal computers regularly. It’s not hard to get a computer and new computers at Wal-Mart and other outlets are inexpensive. Smaller local churches that cannot afford a computer and cannot get a donated computer would need to partner with one of the larger churches in the annual conference, to get their electronic reports completed. The requirement for electronic reports might get pastors talking and coordinating with each other; and that would be a good thing. If a pastor or presiding elder came to me for assistance in getting an electronic report completed, I would be honored to assist him or her, as long as he or she didn’t wait until the last minute.
As for presiding elders and pastors who are not computer-savvy, the deadline and requirement for electronic reports would send a clear signal to them that they need to do what they need to do to get educated. Computer literacy is not rocket science. I would suspect in most cases, there is at least one person in every church that is computer literate or if there is a pre-teenager or teenager in a local church or in the neighborhood, that could show an adult the “ins and outs” of using a computer and how to access the internet. It is absolutely essential that the AME Church moves forward and stays abreast of technology and its impact upon ministry, locally, globally, and connectionally.
And, another thing
Electronic transfer of funds is more efficient than checks and cash. The time is past for pastors to be standing around waiting for their pay checks each Sunday or a presiding elder to be standing around waiting for his or her quarterly conference check.
Local churches should arrange for an electronic transfer of funds to pay their pastors, pay the presiding elder assessments, and if local churches wanted to be more efficient, pay all of their bills electronically. The electronic payment of bills is more efficient and creates a more professional environment.
Connectional and annual conference budget requirements and payments for periodicals should be done electronically. Banks and local churches can easily arrange for electronic transfer of funds; and good banks will do so without additional bank charges. The time has come to use technology to enhance ministry and to increase operational efficiencies.
“The time has come; no, the time is past,” for us, as the AME Church, locally and connectionally, to immediately transition ourselves into the 21st Century.
2. FREE CONFERENCE CALL SERVICE:
Pastors and local churches could probably conduct some meetings via conference calls instead of members putting fuel in their automobiles and driving to meetings, especially in the winter. The conference call-in number is in Iowa, so for most folks, that call would be a long-distance call; but that’s cheaper than gasoline and the time saved would make a conference call meeting more cost effective. I invite you to check this out and share it with your presiding elders and pastors.
The message is ready to be sent with the following file or link attachments:
Shortcut to: https://www.freeconference.com/ConferenceCall.aspx
Editor’s note: I signed up for the program and the signup is straight-forward and easy, i.e., no credit card information is requested. You may use your regular email system, i.e., Outlook, AOL, Yahoo, etc.
3. READER RESPONSE TO EDITORIAL AND OTHER ISSUES:
- To the Editor:
I just wanted to say how proud I am of the AME Church for “stepping up to the plate” during this time of gross injustice regarding the Jena 6 situation.
I applaud our bishops, presiding elders, clergy and laity for being bold and courageous enough to say, “Enough is Enough!”
And, thank you for reporting it.
Pastor Bruce L. Francis
Macedonia AME Church
Rex, GA
- To the Editor:
RE: My thoughts on Jena 6:
Today there are nationwide rally's being held in support of the Jena 6.
There has been a growing rally of support all across the country for these teens. Today a rally is being held in Jena, Louisiana, Washington, D.C. and all across the country. Additionally, people were asked to wear all black in support of the teens today.
There are several things about this case that bothers me. I think what bothers me the most though, is that this is something that is even happening in 2007. I think about the Civil Rights heroes like Dr. King, Medgar Evers, the 4 girls killed in the Birmingham Church Bombing, The Freedom riders and so many more and I wonder.....why are we still going through this? Wasn't there enough blood shed on that bridge in Selma? When is this going to ever end?
From what I can gather, people around the country are mostly outraged and angry about the injustice of the situation. I'm angry. But mostly I'm sad. I'm sad that my little nieces, Ava and Anaiah have to grow up in a world where this can still happen. I'm sad that my God-daughters Paris and Kamryn have to live in a world where this kind of injustice is still occurring. I'm sad that each day as my little God-son, Avon goes off to school, I have to worry about whether or not his classmates are going to hang a noose on a tree.
I'm praying for this world. I'm praying for the families of the Jena 6. I hope that today, you will take some time to reflect on this situation and how it effects us all. Just because you may not be directly affected, this still should be of concern to us all. Remember, a threat to justice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.
I'm wearing my all black today. Are you? "In the end, we will remember, not the words of our enemies, but the silence of our friends." - Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
Lynnette Barrett
- To the Editor:
RE: Jena 6
The 13th District office is wearing black today; all of us, including the majority of the Sunday School Union! Many will be attending worship services tonight in solidarity as this struggle continues.
We, who were the first to be bussed across town at dawn to compete with students, who slept until seven; who experienced the challenges of a dangerous racist mindset yesterday and the residual racism that is being uncovered all across America; We who carried picket signs and march in the first Civil Rights era join those in Louisiana in spirit to stand again for justice and freedom.
We cheered the Vanderbilt students who are even now demonstrating on Broadway/West End Avenue, a major street corner on the edge of the campus.
Evil depends on the silence of good men and women! (Edmund Burke) There comes a time when our silence is betrayal (Martin King Jr.) Now is the time to speak up!
Bishop Vashti Murphy McKenzie
- To the Editor:
RE: A Minister’s Public Lesson on Domestic Violence
I try not to be too critical of anyone in ministry, but we, as a people, need a serious reality check when it comes to authentic ministry.
Too many of the "new" churches are just like new night clubs - they spring up overnight, enjoy instant popularity, and often go under when a newer one springs up!
Dr. Joseph Darby
- To the Editor:
I wanted to take the time to thank you for The Christian Recorder Online edition. It is good to have weekly updates of what is happening around the connectional church as well as the articles you have done on the “Sins of Church…Pastors, Leaders, and Members.” I think it gives an excellent view of how we as a church can better strengthen ourselves, because I feel that the African Methodist Episcopal Church is one of the best things going in the body of Christ. The priority we put on an educated ministry is something that has set the pattern for many of the denominations where there was not an emphasis, but now they too have seen the benefit that an educated and prepared clergy can bring to the growth, development, and expansion of the Church and God’s people.
Please continue bringing to us the information and insight that you do.
Rev. Jerome Stembridge
Pastor – Mt. Zion AME Church
Princeton, New Jersey
- To the Editor:
RE: Jena 6
Sometimes we forget and think we have made it and see comments made by Bill O’Reilly on his syndicated show.
We still need to fight for racial justice and equality in this country that we helped build. Don’t forget, the battle is not over, I hope everyone watched the documentary on CNN regarding the Jena Six. We need to rally again and again; this is not over, the Neo-Nazi groups posted the boys name and addresses and offered a reward to anyone that would deal out punishment (hang our young black males). There have been incidents in North Carolina, etc.
Please, let us as the Church of Sarah and Richard Allen, be more vocal in this quest for justice, not just for the Jena 6, but the young black men in other states. The young girl in Texas was recently released with help from the NAACP Legal Defense and a State Representative. I know we can make a difference if we stand as a united front.
Brenda Jackson, Consultant
bjackson@klproperties.com
4. THE PRESS REPORT OF THE 140TH SESSION OF THE PITTSBURGH ANNUAL CONFERENCE:
- September 5-9, 2007:
The evening of Monday, September 3, 2007, the Women’s Missionary Society held their annual banquet at the Holiday Inn, Wilkinsburg, PA. Local W.M.S. Presidents were honored for their missionary work by Mrs. Frances Jackson, President and those presidents who were present were presented with a certificate by the Episcopal Supervisor, Rev. Rowena Webster White and Mrs. Kathleen Reid, 3rd District W.M.S. President.
The following day, Tuesday, September 4, 2007, The Pittsburgh Conference Women’s Missionary Society gathered together for their Annual Day that was held at The “Historic” St. James A.M.E. Church, Pittsburgh, PA. Elections were held under the leadership of Episcopal Supervisor, Rev. Rowena Webster White and elected into office for the 2007-2008 Conference year were:
Deborah Gray – President
Barbara Young - Vice President
Barbara Lyles – 2nd Vice President
Stacy Williams – 3rd Vice President
Judith Lewis – Recording Secretary
Monique Knight – Assistant Recording Secretary
Shelly Brown – Correspondence Secretary
Sarah Lane – Treasurer
Gwendolyn Cooley – Y.P.D. Director
Dr. Sylvia Wade – P.M.E. Director
Nancy Brown – Parliamentarian
Marsha Washington – Historiographer/Statistician
Martha Miott – Worshiper Leader
Members at Large –
Lillie Wheeler
Mary Burleigh
Lowell Owens
Alma Johnson
Nellie Bryant
Episcopal Supervisor Rev. Rowena Webster White and all of the Pittsburgh Conference Missionaries gave applause to Mrs. Frances Jackson for her tenor as President of the Pittsburgh Annual Conference for four years and for her dedication and work.
The 140th Session of the Pittsburgh Annual Conference was hosted by The “Historic” St. James African Methodist Episcopal Church, Pittsburgh, PA from September 5–9, 2007 The Right Reverend Bishop Robert Vaughn Webster, presiding. The host Presiding Elder, Rev. Dr. Eric L. Brown, co-host Presiding Elder, Rev. Samson Cooper, and the host pastor, Rev. James E. Murray, Jr.
On Wednesday, September 5, 2007, Bishop Robert Vaughn Webster, Episcopal Supervisor Rev. Rowena Webster White, Presiding Elder Samson M. Cooper, Presiding Elder Rev. Dr. Eric Brown, clergy from the Pittsburgh District and Allegheny Scranton District, delegates, and friends assembled for Roll Call and organization of this 140th Session of the Pittsburgh Annual Conference.
The Annual Sermon was preached by the Reverend Samuel Chambers, Pastor of Payne Chapel A.M.E. Church – Duquesne, PA. Text was taken from John 21:4. Sermon Topic was “In His Presence”. Rev. Samuel Chambers preached about the Disciples witnessing so many miraculous things that Jesus did but they still questioned what they had witnessed. Although they were with Jesus on a daily basis, there were trying times for the Disciples because they looked back. One of the reasons the church today cannot move forward is because they are too busy looking back. Rev. Samuel Chambers said another reason why the church can’t move forward is because people refuse to forgive others. The Rev. Chambers inspirational message detailed how a person can be in the presence of the Lord and not know it. He encouraged the Church to keep their eyes on Jesus and He will take care of everything.
The Spirit of the Lord filled this place and the Holy Eucharist was celebrated with Chief Celebrant, The Right Bishop Robert Vaughn Webster.
The election of Ministerial and Lay Delegates to the 48th Session of the General Conference of the African Methodist Episcopal Church which will be held in St. Louis, Missouri July 4-8, 2008 was held Wednesday Afternoon. Bishop Robert Vaughn Webster declared the following to represent the Pittsburgh Annual Conference:
Ministerial Delegation:
1. Presiding Elder Rev. Dr. Eric Brown
2. Rev. David W. Bethea
3. Rev. Brenda J. Gregg
4. Rev. James E. Murray, Jr.
5. Rev. Samuel Chambers
6. Rev. James McLemore
7. Rev. Lawrence Thompson, Jr.
Alternate Ministerial Delegation:
1. Rev. Dr. Judith C. Moore
2. Rev. Yolanda S. Wright
3. Rev. Alfred Thompson
4. Rev. Byron Jordan
5. Rev. Arthur E. Doctor Jr.
6. Rev. Joella Williams
7. Rev. Kary Williams Jr.
Lay Delegation:
1. Bert C. Ogden Sr.
2. Ruth Smith
3. Andre Nelson
4. Dr. Gary Hart
5. Johnnie Miott
6. Gladys Russell
7. Ashleigh Bethea (Youth)
Alternate Lay Delegation:
1. Linda West
2. Robert Chambers
3. Tajuana Brown
4. Stacy Williams
5. Louis Young
6. Lowell Owens
7. Wendell Robinson (Youth)
The “Historic” St. James A.M.E. Church family, as well as local dignitaries welcomed everyone to this Session. The Afro-American Institute Boy’s Choir sang songs of Zion.
Ecumenical Men’s Night Worship Celebration the Reverend Delano R. Paige, Pastor Rodman Street Missionary Baptist Church, preached from Ephesians 2:8-10 about God attaching a picture with every letter. He said that we have people who cannot read but still God’s message is able to reach them. He gave points on people being a part of the human predicament, but God is always able to provide a heavenly provision. Rev. Paige said, “Do not ever be ashamed of how God made you. You are who you are by the grace of God.”
Rev. Dr. Thomas Liggins, Administrative Assistant and 3rd District Accountant and Rev. Dr. L. Anthony Gatewood, Presiding Elder of the Columbus District, Columbus, OH and Assistant Conference Lecturer were the presenters for the Conference Institute for the week. Presiding Elder Gatewood spoke on the topic of church building through a spiritual aspect. Rev. Gatewood said that building is part of church development and we need to develop a spiritual perspective that will help the church to grow spiritually. Spiritual discipline comes from reading the Bible, meditating on God’s Word and talking with God. The recommended reading, “Go Build a Church! Spiritual Administration for Church Growth” by Dr. James F. Miller, helps to lay out a blueprint for pastors and church members to follow.
Thursday, September 6, 2007: Following the morning business session as minutes were corrected and organization of the Finance Committee completed, the preacher of the Noon Day Service was The Reverend Isaiah Waddy, St. Peter A.M.E. Church, Atlanta, GA. The Reverend Isaiah Waddy preached from II Kings 22:1-7 and his topic was “We Need Reform”. Rev. Waddy enlightened the congregation by preaching a message which included the ways that reformation can take root in the church. He said that although the word reform means to improve by altering; correcting error or eliminating abuse and malpractice; however, true reformation comes when you have been baptized by the Holy Spirit. Rev. Waddy said we have to be obedient to God if you do what the Lord says, it will bless you not some of the time, but all of the time. He also testified about the power of prayer from when he was sick the Lord showed him in a vision what he needed to do and because he was obedient to God, God blessed him. An invitation for people to be healed was extended by Rev. Waddy and the altar was full of people who came forth for prayer. This was an outstanding spiritually anointed message that was felt through the hearts of the congregants.
The afternoon business consisted of Presiding Elder Rev. Dr. Eric L. Brown Summary Report and the Pastoral Reports of the Allegheny Scranton District were read during the Thursday Afternoon’s Business Session.
The Pittsburgh Annual Conference Lay Organization presided over the evening service. Ms Sharon Smith Banks, President of the West Virginia Conference Lay Organization and Director of New Student Programs at West Virginia State University was the speaker. Ms. Smith’s message was “Laymen Working for His Purpose”. Ms. Banks stated that people need to go outside the walls of their own comfort zone. Laymanship is more than lip service. It means reaching out to the less fortunate, to the homeless, to hungry children and those who fall by the wayside. You have to humble yourself, it is not about you; it is about God. Ruth Smith, Director of the Lay Activities Pittsburgh Conference made the following presentation of an African Bowl on behalf of the Pittsburgh AIDS Task Force:
Ms. Sharon Smith Banks, President West Virginia Conference Lay President; Bethel, Irwin; St. Paul, Washington; Christ Temple, McKeesport; Ebenezer, Aliquippa; and Allen Chapel, Elizabeth.
Ruth Smith stated that a total of 23 of these awards have been given this Conference year.
Presentations were also made by:
a. Martha Miott presented Presiding Elder Eric Brown with a proclamation and a T-shirt.
b. Wendell Robinson presented Presiding Elder Samson Cooper with the “Distinguished Living Witness Award”.
c. Bert C. Ogden, Sr. led the congregation in singing Happy Birthday to Dr. Willie Glover.
d. He also presented Dr. Willie Glover with a token of appreciation.
e. James Beatty presented Episcopal Supervisor Rev. Rowena Webster White with a proclamation as an honorary member of the Pittsburgh Lay Organization as a well as a token of appreciation.
f. James Beatty presented Bishop Robert Vaughn Webster with a proclamation as an honorary member of the Pittsburgh Lay Organization as well as a token of appreciation.
Friday, September 8, 2007: The Morning Business continued with the Reading of the Pastors’ Annual Report of the Allegheny Scranton District.
The “Hour of Power” Noon Day Sermon was preached by Rev. John K. Frazier, St. Paul A.M.E. Church, Pittsburgh. Rev. Frazier’s topic was “A Divine Call You Needed”. Scripture Ezekiel 2:1-9. Rev. John K. Frazier preached about how the Lord calls us to do something and often times we ignore it. We should be prepared at all times because you never know when He is going to call. We must answer and obey the call and when we do He will reward us.
The Afternoon Business consisted of reading and correction of the minutes by the Conference Secretary, Rev. Jeannette Hubbard. The Board of Examiners then presented their recommendations:
Admitted on trial - Donus Crawford, Jr. and Hazel Kelly
Elected and Ordained - Rev. Donus Crawford, Jr., Local deacon
Rev. Melva Hartzog, Local elder
Rev. John Higgins, Local elder
Rev. Mortty Ivy, Local elder
Rev. Lloyd King, Local elder
Wilberforce Night: The Wilberforce Choir blessed the congregation through the singing ministry. The following selections were rendered by the choir under the direction of Mr. Jeremy Winston and Dr. Everett Jones:
“Lift Every Voice and Sing”, “Sing Unto the Lord (in Hebrew)” “I Ain’t Got Long To Be Here”, “In My Father’s House”, “You Must Have That True Religion”, “John 1:1 In the Beginning was the Word”, “Elijah”, “Great is God’s Faithfulness”.
Mr. Jeremy Winston stated that this the largest freshmen class in the 151 years of this Institution.
Saturday, September 8, 2007: Morning Business opened with the reading and correction of minutes and Presiding Elder Samson Cooper reading the summary report of the Pittsburgh District followed by Pittsburgh District Pastors’ Annual Reports.
The Ordination Service began at 10:30 a.m. which included the Memorial and Retirement Service for the following:
The Rev. Melvin Davis, Ebenezer – Aliquippa was the worship leader for the Memorial Service. The persons eulogized:
Bishops:
The Right Reverend Robert Thomas, Jr.
Remarks given by Bishop Robert Vaughn Webster
Ministers:
Reverend David U. Brown
Reverend Charles Buckner
Reverend Barbara Gant
Reverend Mabel Gessendanner
Reverend Jessie Thrower
Remarks given by Rev. Dr. Helen M. Burton
Evangelists:
Evangelist Lula I. Reid
Remarks given by Rev. Dr. Helen M. Burton
Church School Superintendents:
Mrs. Evelyn Dudley – Emeritus
Mr. Modican Simms – Emeritus
Remarks given by Rev. Samuel Chambers
Deaconess:
Deaconess Catherine Thomas
Church Trustees:
Mr. Mitchell Spriggs
Mr. Richard Thomas Copeland
The Retirement Service:
The Conference Secretary, Rev. Jeannette Hubbard, presented the four retirees; Rev. Bertha Morrison, Rev. Vodia Smith, Rev. Wilma Jean Smith, and Rev. Samson Manoah Cooper.
Rev. Bertha Morrison:
Licensed in 1985.
Ordained in 1994
Churches served: St. Paul Bellefonte and Allen Chapel Clearfield
Rev. Vodia Smith:
Licensed in 1981
Ordained in 1991
Churches served: St. Stephens Latrobe, Pennsylvania, Israel West Middletown, Bethel Irwin and Pleasant Green Belle Vernon.
Rev. Wilma Jean Smith:
Evangelist in 1972
Licensed in 1977
Ordained in 1982
Churches served: Trinity Ellwood City, Arnet Butler, Bethel Tarentum, and St. John Bridgewater
Reverend Samson Manoah Cooper:
Licensed in 1936 at the age of five
Ordained in 1953
Churches served: St. Andrews Cochocton, Ohio, Grace Bellefontaine, Ohio, Bethel Scranton, Pennsylvania, St. Paul, Pittsburgh, Brown Chapel, Pittsburgh, Young Chapel, Huntington, West Virginia, Park Place, Homestead, Pennsylvania, Bethel, Pittsburgh, and Payne, Duquesne, Pennsylvania.
Bishop Robert Vaughn Webster commended all the retirees for their dedication, growth and expansion to the African Methodist Episcopal Church.
The Ordination Sermon was preached by Rev. Dr. Eric L. Brown, Presiding Elder Allegheny Scranton District. Scripture was taken from Mark 5:19. The theme “Tell the Story”. Presiding Elder Eric Brown stated to the Congregation the fact is we live in a world of terrorism, drugs, murder, and even church folk who are overcome by demons. If God didn’t call you, you won’t quit despite of this. You are to bring your light in the midst of darkness. Ministry is a calling and not a career. You are called to “Tell the Story” to all for them to believe in God’s Word, to walk in God’s way and to work out their soul salvation.
The Ordination of Deacons: Rev. Donus Crawford, Jr., Local Deacon
The Ordination of the Elders: Rev. John Higgins - Local Elder
Rev. Lloyd King – Local Elder
Rev. Mortty Ivy – Local Elder
Rev. Melva Hartzog – Local Elder
Bishop Robert Vaughn Webster was the chief celebrant for the service of Holy Communion.
The Afternoon Business concluded with the reading of the Pittsburgh District Pastors’ Annual Reports. Bishop Robert Vaughn Webster commended Presiding Elder Samson Cooper for his 66 years of service in the African Methodist Episcopal Church. Bishop Robert Vaughn Webster thanked Presiding Elder Samson Cooper for his fatherly touch and all he has done for African Methodism.
The reading and recommendation of the following reports were read: Trustee Report, Committee Missions Circuits and Stations, Presiding Elder Support Committee, Adams-Anderson Trust Fund, and Treasurer’s Report.
Y.P.D. Night showcased the talent of the youth in the Powerful Pittsburgh Conference which included mimes, liturgical dance, piano solo, and soloists. The youth certainly are on fire for the Lord!
The Commission Service Sunday, September 9, 2007:
The Preacher, the Right Reverend Robert Vaughn Webster, Presiding prelate, 3rd Episcopal District preached a dynamic sermon. Bishop Webster’s text was Jeremiah 12:5 and his sermon topic was entitled, “Labor.”
Bishop Robert Vaughn Webster used the example of how Jeremiah struggled and his hope in God was all he had. We must trust in God. Bishop Webster stated that God gives preachers a word and you must mediate and read the Word of God and ask what is the message he wants you to deliver Don’t use that hour to fuss about other people from the pulpit. People want to hear “thus saith the Lord”. You must not only teach people how to live but you must also teach them how to do.
Certificates were presented by Bishop Robert Vaughn Webster.
The Conference Choir, under the direction of Duchess Overton, Bethel A.M.E. Church, Meadville, PA, truly sang the Songs of our Zion which ushered the Holy Spirit into this Holy Place over the week.
Bishop Robert Vaughn Webster then read appointments for the Allegheny Scranton District and the Pittsburgh District.
Allegheny Scranton District
Presiding Elder Rev. Dr. Eric L. Brown
St. James, Pittsburgh Rev. James E. Murray, Jr.
St. James, Erie Rev. Dr. Eugene Schoolfield II
Greater Allen, Pittsburgh Rev. Brenda J. Gregg
First Church, Clairton Rev. Dr. Judith C. Moore
Calvary, Braddock Rev. Lois Thomas
Payne, Duquesne Rev. Samuel Chambers
Wayman Chapel, New Brighton Rev. Kary Williams, Jr.
Ebenezer, Aliquippa Rev. Melvin Davis
St. Mark. Wilkinsburg Rev. Byron Jordan
Greater Morris, Farrell Rev. Marvin Morris
Bethel, Scranton Rev. Kenneth Burnett
Bethel, Tarentum Rev. Dr. Helen M. Burton
Bethel, Meadville Rev. Acquanetta Osborne
Bethel, New Castle Rev. Jeannette Hubbard
Bethel, Wilkes-Barre Rev. Wilhelmenia Coleman
Bethel, Mt. Union Rev. Sylvia Morris
Bethel, Lewistown Rev. Bernard Carpenter
St. John, Bridgewater Rev. Lawrence Haynes
St. Paul, Milton Rev. Donald Spiller
Payne, Huntingdon Rev. Lloyd King
Nesmith, West Mifflin Rev. Cheryl Ruffin
St. Paul, Bellefonte Rev. Benjamin Morrison
Allen Chapel, Clearfield To be supplied
New Life Rev. Melva Hartzog
Bethel, Williamsport Rev. Donald Spiller
PITTSBURGH DISTRICT
Presiding Elder Rev. Samson M. Cooper (temporary)
Bethel, Pittsburgh Rev. Dr. James McLemore
Park Place, Homestead Rev. David W. Bethea
St. Paul, Washington Rev. Arthur E. Doctor Jr.
Brown Chapel, Pittsburgh Rev. Lawrence Thompson, Jr.
St. Paul, Pittsburgh Rev. John K. Frazier
St. Paul, McKeesport Rev. Yolanda S. Wright
St. Paul, Uniontown Rev. Alfred L. Thompson Jr.
Trinity, Pittsburgh Rev. Bernard Gaiton
Wayman, Monessen Rev. Eleanor Williams
Bethel, Monroeville Rev. Samuel Ware
Bethel, Monongahela Rev. Kay Frazier
Mt. Zion, Brownsville Rev. Carl Kemp
Christian Chapel, Pittsburgh Rev. Lissa Foster
Payne, Connellsville Rev. Alfred L. Thompson, Jr.
Christ Temple, McKeesport Rev. Joella Williams
Bethel, Johnstown Rev. Cassandra Maultsby
Bethel, Irwin Rev. Mildred Taylor
Allen Chapel, Elizabeth Rev. Marilyn Fisher
Quinn Chapel, Donora Rev. Eleanor Williams
Bethel, Greensburg Rev. Cordell Bennett
St. Paul, West Newton Rev. Josephine George
Payne, Canonsburg Rev. Mortty Ivy
St. Stephens, Latrobe Rev. Rhonda Frazier-Higgins
Pleasant Green, Belle Vernon To be supplied
Israel, West Middletown To be supplied
Rev. Dr. James McLemore, Rev. James E. Murray, Jr., Presiding Elder Samson Cooper, and Presiding Elder Eric Brown thanked Bishop Robert Vaughn Webster for his leadership and example he set for the 3rd District and wished him a happy retirement for which a standing ovation was given.
Submitted by: Shelly Brown
Pittsburgh Annual Conference Church Press
5. THE 7TH DISTRICT’S 2007 PALMETTO ANNUAL CONFERENCE, LED BY BISHOP PRESTON W. WILLIAMS II, WAS A MEMORABLE EVENT:
*Benjamin Harrison
Monday, August 20th to Friday, August 24th, the 7th District of the African Methodist Episcopal Church, which encompasses the entire state of South Carolina, convened in Charleston for the first of its 2007 annual conferences entitled the Palmetto Annual Conference. This week long event was held at Morris Brown A.M.E. Church located at 13 Morris Street in Charleston, S.C., where the Rev. Joseph A. Darby is pastor. The Palmetto Conference is comprised of the Mount Pleasant, Kingstree, and Georgetown Districts and with approximately 50,000 local members is the largest of six annual conferences in the 7th Episcopal District. This was the 97th session of the Palmetto Annual Conference and the final series of conferences for this quadrennial before next summer’s 2008 General Conference in St. Louis, Missouri.
The following article is derived from the resolution which was submitted on August 24, 2007, by the Rev. Barbara Chisolm, pastor of Jehovah A.M.E. Church in Cross, S.C., and the Palmetto Annual Conference Resolution Committee.
By the grace of almighty God, in His great providence, He has allowed us to come together once more. Tuesday, at 8:33 a.m., the opening of the 7th District’s 97th session of the Palmetto Annual Conference was called to order by Bishop Preston W. Williams II, presiding prelate of the 7th District, at historic Morris Brown A.M.E. Church, where Rev. Joseph A. Darby is host pastor. Bishop Williams called for the order of the day which began with committee reports followed by the roll call of ministers. At 10:30 a.m., as we waited on the Lord, we trusted by faith in Him, and He allowed His presence and wonderful works to be known as the Morris Brown choir, pastors, presiding elders, leadership, and laity sang processional hymn # 568, “God of Our Father.” As we entered the great cathedral, the Rev. Charles Graves, Host Presiding Elder of the Mt. Pleasant District, established protocol and led us in spiritual worship. The preacher was the Rev. Frank Moses, pastor of Olive Branch A.M.E. Church in Mt. Pleasant, and the Olive Branch choir presented their pastor by singing, “In the word of God, I find it all in the word of God!” Rev. Moses preached from Genesis 37:24; 41:40-42, on the subject, “From the Pit to the Palace,” and asked, “When God is for you, who can be against you? God can, in time, move us from the pits of life to the palace of His glory. Joseph was a tall, handsome young man and the gift that God had given him caused others to become jealous and angry for unjust reasons. We must be careful of those who can’t handle what God has given to us.” The worship experience ended after Holy Communion.
At 3:30 p.m. the afternoon session continued with the role call of the conference members and the business session ended at 5:30 pm. At 7:00 p.m. the WMS Night in Mission began under the theme, “Standing in the Gap for Those in Need!” The Rev. Rose Goodwater preached from the text of Habakkuk 2:21 and her subject was, “Sowing with a Vision!” WMS officers for 2007-2008 were acknowledged, Sis. Tanya Harper, WMS Palmetto Conference President, sowed seeds by providing checks for $32,000 and $3,000 to the 7th District, and the service ended with remarks from Bishop Williams.
Wednesday, at 8:30 a.m., Bishop Williams called for the continuation at Morris Street Baptist Church where Rev. Griffin is pastor. The business session included the ending of the role call and was followed by the Palmetto Elders’ summaries of each district, and pastors' reports. The session was ended at 11:50 a.m. by Bishop Williams with a continuant.
At 12:00 noon, “The Hour of Power” began as the Rev. Donnie McBride invited the conference to transition from business to spiritual enlightenment. The anointed preacher was the Rev. Dr. Harold Mayberry of the 5th District, who shared that, “Godly leadership is possible when you have good follower-ship!” His subject was, “How to survive when the heat gets turned up,” and his text was taken from the book of Daniel, 3:14-26. Dr. Mayberry preached three primary messages. One, when the enemy wants control he will try to change your name; so don’t let others establish your ID, and don’t compromise your praise. Two, resist the temptation to diminish your character, and resist those who do not belong in your lives; cut off the dead weight. Three, we can serve when the heat is turned up, if we can discern the presence of the Lord in the fire. God is in the fire and He remains in the fire to protect us when we must go in because at some point everyone will have a fire experience. The hour of power ended and Bishop Williams recessed the conference for lunch.
The conference reconvened at 3:30 p.m. and Bishop Williams called for pastors reports. The Mt. Pleasant District went first, the Kingstree District followed, and at 6:00 p.m. the business session ended. At 7:00 p.m. the Young People’s Division conducted their worship service under the theme, “The Struggle Is Over: Don’t Break Down, Break Through!” There was a wonderful display of the youths’ talents and abilities, including a drill conducted by the conference drill team and an official welcome by the Palmetto Conference Sunbeams and Allen Stars. They also performed a skit related to the theme, “The Struggle is Over,” and shared that Jesus is the answer to all struggles! Encouraging words were offered by Sister Tanya Harper, Sister Bernice Sanders, WMS Episcopal President, and Sister Cheryl Swinton, YPD Episcopal Director. Bishop Williams provided the closing remarks to what was a tremendous evening of excitement and wonder.
Thursday, at 8:45 a.m., Bishop Williams continued with the business session at Morris Brown A.M.E. Church. He called to establish the boundaries for the election of delegates for the General Conference to be recognized and numbered. At 11:40 a.m. the session ended as the conference prepared for a shared worship experience with Allen University. Dr. Charles Young, President of Allen University, praised the 7th District leadership, stating that, “The work we have done will speak for us!” He testified that Allen University has stood the test of time and today still stands strong! With great encouragement, he shared a text with the conference from I Corinthian, Chapter 15, on the subject, “Got victory, Got victory!” Dr. Young stated that, “We can’t spend all of our mental and spiritual time in battle. Paul shared that there was a war going on within. But thanks be to God that the believer has victory through Christ Jesus!” Bishop Williams then called for a continuant after lunch and a return at 3:20 p.m.
At 3:30 p.m. Bishop Williams acknowledged the Christian Education Department and recognized its director, Sister Kabrina Bass and the CED committee. Highlights were given on the special project for disease control (arthritis), as well as the new FAN project provided for the 7th District. There was a continuant of the election for delegates to the General Conference, delegates were given their assignments and locations, and the election process went forward. Upon its completion, Bishop Williams ended the business session.
At 7:00 p.m., Annual Lay Witness Night began, and what a witness it was! The speaker for the occasion was Attorney Renee Gaiters, a member of Ebenezer A.M.E. Church. She read from Ephesians 6:6, on the subject, “Refocusing on Ministry to Serve the Present Age!” Sister Gaiters professed that there were three necessary elements in ministering to the present age. One, we must serve productively both the church and our community; two, we must earnestly try to meet the needs of others; and three, we must identify our strengths by improving our weaknesses. The night ended with preparation for the final day of the Palmetto Annual Conference.
Friday, the conference opened at 8:00 a.m. at Greater Saint Luke A.M.E. Church where the Rev. L. T. Baker is pastor. Bishop Williams called for the pastors' reports from the Georgetown District, followed by the Board of Examiners. Bishop Williams then called for the Ordination Worship Service, where the preacher was the Rev. John Gillison, Presiding Elder of the Edisto District of the South Carolina Annual Conference. Elder Gillison’s text was taken from St. Matthew 28:20, on the subject, “Life Insurance: A Coverage You Can Depend On,” and the ordination of six deacons followed the powerful worship experience. Later, at 6:00 p.m., church school began under the theme, “Malachi Describes God’s Just Judgment.” Bishop Williams called for the conference minutes and the final business of the conference, followed by the closing worship service. The preacher for the final hour was Bishop Frank C. Cummings, Retired Bishop.
During this conference week we were graced with the presence of numerous outstanding visitors and guests such as: Retired Bishop Zedekiah L. Grady and Mother Grady, Retired Bishop Fredrick C. James and Mother James, General Officer Dr. George F. Flowers, Executive Director of Global Witness and Ministry, Dr. Stanford Wicker of the 6th District, the Rev. Reginald T. Jackson of the 18th District, The Honorable Joe Riley, Mayor of the city of Charleston, S.C., the Rev. Dr. Harold Mayberry, Chairman of the Episcopal Committee and pastor in the 5th District, and the Rev. Philip R. Cousin of the 2nd District, among others.
This 97th session of the Palmetto Annual Conference was conducted in reflection of the grace of almighty God and His great providence in allowing us to come together one more time. Not because of what we have done, but by His amazing grace alone. The Rt. Reverend Preston W. Williams II, presiding prelate of the 7th District, confirmed historic Morris Brown A.M.E. Church as a key historical site where the revolutionary battle for change began burning for the A.M.E. Church. The Rev. Joseph Darby and the faithful members of Morris Brown A.M.E. Church were commended for the excellent manner in which they hosted the conference. The Rev. L. T. Baker and the considerate members of St. Luke A.M.E. Church were thanked for their generosity in opening their doors and assisting in the conference experience. The Rev. Griffin, pastor of Morris Brown Baptist Church, was commended as well for the church’s hospitality in accommodating our denomination in its times of need. To God be the glory for the good things He has done!
Throughout the conference we waited on the Lord and trusted in Him through faith and His presence was made known by His wonderful works as His spirit moved through us all. Minds were transformed, bodies were healed, and salvation was imparted. Preachers preached, and elders and pastors presented excellent reports. The conference was filled with spiritual empowerment, enlightenment, and dedication to service. It is with joy and thanksgiving that we applaud Bishop Preston W. Williams II, presiding prelate of the nation-state of South Carolina for his spirited leadership throughout the entire 97th session of the Palmetto Annual Conference. Bishop Williams offered profound spiritual guidance on how to alleviate physical, mental, and spiritual pressure in the hearts and minds of God’s people. Therefore, as we leave this place of worship which belongs to God, we shall never forget what our Bishop Preston W. Williams II has taught us through the wisdom and knowledge which he has received from God. We shall never be the same again, for God has descended into the minds of His people. Therefore, we shall go forth and serve in His name.
*Benjamin Harrison is the Public Relations Director for the 7th District, AME Church
6. NEW AME CHURCH “PLANTED” IN MINNESOTA:
By Charles Hallman, District Reporter
St. Paul-Minneapolis (MN) District
The first AME church established in Minnesota in 90 years will be recommended for admission to the Chicago Annual Conference in October. Lily of the Valley AME Church is the first congregation founded in Minnesota since 1919, when Waxman, Minneapolis was established.
“This is a great history making day,” proclaims St. Paul-Minneapolis District Presiding Elder Rev. Dr. Alphonse Reff, Sr. after the September 9th inaugural worship service at Christus Victor Lutheran Church (ELCA) in Apple Valley, Minn., a Minneapolis suburb.
Since becoming presiding elder, one of Reff’s main goals is “to do the work that the Lord has assigned us to do, which is (to) start up churches.” With many persons of color now living in the Twin Cities suburbs, this area is ripe for starting a church.
“When we were looking for a place to hold services (and) Bible study,” recalls Reff, “(Christus Victor) just had a break in the day before. But they were able to look beyond that and still open their doors to us.”
“Rev. Bill Smith, his wife and another member of an AME church came by our church, looking for a congregation to open their doors,” confirms Christus Victor Pastor Kent Gubrud. “From our very first meeting, with a lot of laughter and smiles, we had an immediate connection. It was a sense that this is what the Holy Spirit wanted us to do.”
Smith and his group began holding weekly Bible study in August, 2006. The small group of 10 then told Reff that they wanted to start a church: “I (then) talked to the Bishop (Phillip Cousin, Fourth Episcopal District) and he told me to go ahead and do it.”
Eventually, twice-monthly services were scheduled – the first was held this past Easter Sunday.
The small group slowly grew, notes Rev. William Smith, who is assisting Reff. “We started out with about seven people,” he adds. Eventually, the numbers began to grow and twice-monthly Sunday services were scheduled and held at Christus Victor.
Now officially named, Reff delivered the new congregation’s inaugural sermon, using Matthew 16: 18-19 as his text.
The presiding elder explained to the worshippers why starting a new church is important. “We have people in our sanctuary who are broken, and the (federal) government can’t put them back together,” states Reff. “Only the church can put them back together.”
Christians must bear some responsibility for those who say they no longer need the church, the preacher continues. “The enemy is running rapid through our country, and we are still asking why we need more churches. We need the church because it is the answer to the world’s problems today.”
Reff closed his sermon: The church must be more than a building. “We need the church to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ. The church still holds the key to the Kingdom. It is still the place for those sick with sin, can come in and be healed. Jesus is our remedy for this sin-sick world.”
Afterwards, Reff and Gubrud jointly celebrated Holy Communion, assisted by the four Twin Cities AME pastors and other ministers.
“It is so much fun worshipping with other Christians from other denominations,” Gubrud believes. “It also affirms us in our common humanity, our common faith and our common need to share in the Gospel.”
About one-half of Apple Valley’s population goes to church, he adds. This means there are plenty of souls needing saving. “There are a lot of people out there who don’t know the Lord,” notes Gubrud.
But Reff says he’s not overly concerned about numbers. “If we say that we are looking for 100 members, that (number) is what we become focused on. I’m looking at the Body of Christ growing.”
The Chicago Annual Conference is scheduled for October 17-21, hosted by St. James, Chicago. Reff says he doesn’t foresee any problems with Lily of the Valley being accepted in the Conference.
“The church is constantly looking for us to do evangelism. When you evangelize, that means people now are coming to the Kingdom to work. That’s the mandate Jesus gave us.”
To his knowledge, Gubrud says this might be the first AME-ELCA partnership in Minnesota. “There have been some discussions in the past, in the 1980s and 90s between national leaders between the AME and the ELCA (churches),” he points out. “Both churches will continue to be blessed by this partnership, and we both (will) grow and reach out in new ways.”
“Lily of the Valley is here to stay,” proclaims Reff.
Finally, the presiding elder says that this must be the beginning. “If other denominations can (plant new churches) and be successful, why can’t the AME Church do the same,” he asks rhetorically. “You can’t put a number on what God can do, or limit God in His work.”
7. BISHOP PRESTON W. WILLIAMS II AND DR. JAMESINA EVANS, AME WMS PRESIDENT AMONG INVITEES TO THE NATIONAL BLACK CHURCH INSTITUTE FOR HIV/AIDS AND OTHER HEALTH DISPARITIES MEETING:
*Sister Saundra S. Lucas
The three-day Institute on HIV/AIDS and other health disparities features praise and worship, workshop sessions, guest preachers, leaders and representatives from the African-American church. Dr. Jamesina Evans (AME) along with Dr. Elnora Hamb (CME); Dr. Barbara L. Shaw (AMEZ) will be presenters.
The goal is to enhance and strengthen the capacity to address HIV/AIDS, as well as other diseases that are, disproportionately, affecting African Americans.
Registration is open for National HIV/AIDS Conference for Black Churches in Hilton Head Island, South Carolina October 23-26, 2007.
Now in its 7th year, The Black Church Institute on HIV/AIDS and Other Health Disparities brings together African American church leaders and representatives from across the country to enhance and strengthen their capacity to address HIV/AIDS, as well as other diseases that are disproportionately affecting African Americans such as cervical cancer and Hepatitis C.
This year’s Black Church Institute will include keynotes and workshop sessions from religious leaders who represent some of the nation’s top historical denominations and institutions.
Some of these speakers include: Rev. Dr. Stephen Thurston, president, National Baptist Convention of America and senior pastor, New Covenant Missionary Baptist Church, Chicago, IL; Rev. Dr. Claude Alexander, senior pastor, University Park Baptist Church, Charlotte, NC; and, Keith Rawlings, medical director, Peabody Health Center, Dallas, TX; In addition, the conference will feature an unprecedented session led by the Rev. Dr. James A. Forbes, Jr., senior pastor emeritus of The Riverside Church in The City of New York along with his brothers Drs. David C. Forbes and Ronald O. Forbes and his sister Anna Forbes Towns. This renowned family will host a plenary on A Comprehensive, Spiritual Approach to Effectively Addressing HIV/AIDS.
Other conference speakers for this year’s Black Church Institute on HIV/AIDS and Other Health Disparities include: Bishop Michael V. Kelsey, Sr., New Samaritan Baptist Church, Washington, DC; George Roberts, PhD, Centers for Disease and Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA; Rev. Dr. Renita Weems, Teacher of Spiritual Insight; and Bev Smith, host, “The Bev Smith Show,” American Urban Radio. Other invited guests are Bishop Preston Warren Williams, 7th Episcopal District and Dr. Jamesina Evans, Connectional WMS President.
Registration
A registration fee of $295.00 ($325 after October 15, 2007) covers all conference materials, activities and meals. Information on overnight accommodations at The Hilton Oceanfront Resort is available in the conference brochure. Individuals interested in attending The Black Church Institute for HIV/AIDS and Other Health Disparities may contact The Balm in Gilead at 1-888-225-6243 for a conference brochure or download brochure at www.balmingilead.org
*Sister Saundra S. Lucas is the WMS National Health Director
8. TEENAGE GIRLS COMMITS TO ABSTINENCE UNTIL MARRIAGE - DAUGHTERS OF DESTINY CAMPAIGN:
San Diego, CA – On September 15, 2007, sixteen teenage girls representing the 2007 “Daughters of Destiny” Campaign of Bethel Memorial A.M.E. Church of San Diego, under the leadership of Rev. Anthony L. Hughes, participated in a Dedication Service that demonstrated their commitment to Christian chastity through abstinence until marriage. The ceremony was held at Christ Our Redeemer AME Church in Irvine, California. The guest speaker at this ceremony was Dr. Thema Bryant who advised the Daughters to have faith in their decisions, stay focused on their life goals, and to stay fired up as it relates to their relationship with God. All Daughters were presented with silver rings engraved with “True Love Waits” at the end of the Dedication Service.
The Daughters of Destiny Campaign is a Biblically-based mentorship program for young girls ages 13 to 19. Each Daughter is paired with one mentor who stays in constant contact with their Daughter, providing mental and spiritual support throughout the program. The mentors offered additional talents and resources to the program, and included a medical doctor, lawyer, psychologist, business owners, health executives and religious leaders. The coordinators and advisors for Bethel’s Daughters of Destiny are Akanke Ramsey, Local Coordinator; Sandra Williams, Local Co-Coordinator; Veronica Parris, YPD Director; Candace Nash Everett, WMS President; Rev. Dorisalene Hughes, First Lady; and Eula Johnson, Advisor.
The Daughters participated in classroom discussions related to “Building and Maintaining Self-Esteem and Self Worth, Values and Goals,” “Awakening Love Before It's Time,” and “Why Abstinence?” Social activities included a barbeque, an overnight sleepover, and a pool party. These social activities were the backgrounds for discussions related to “Promoting Healthy Relationships With Males and Females as Friends,” Seeking and Receiving Deliverance and Healing of the Past Hurts and Disappointments,” and “Speaking Purpose Into Their Lives.” The Daughters presented Prayer Boards that highlighted their values and goals. They also presented their Hope Chests where, among other precious items, they will store Biblical references, prayers and affirmations.
Each Daughter is assured that God has a special plan for their life and no matter what decisions they may have made in the past, they can begin anew. For more information related to Bethel Memorial A.M.E. Daughters of Destiny Campaign, please visit our web site at www.blackdiego.com/daughters or contact the Program Coordinator, Akanke Ramsey at (619) 232-0510.
History of Daughters of Destiny
Daughters of Destiny is a Fifth Episcopal District ministry implemented by Rev. Dr. Cecelia Williams-Bryant, Fifth District Episcopal Supervisor that focuses on three areas: (1) spiritual growth through relationship with Christ; (2) self-esteem; and (3) self-development. The ministry has curriculums that address all three of these areas. Each daughter goes through each phase of the curriculum and then participates in a graduation ceremony with other youth throughout the Fifth District. In addition to the phases, we have informal discussion sessions on topics that are generally chose by the daughters which relate to issues that they face today. We also partner with our Sons of Success (SOS) and Young Peoples Department (YPD) ministries in attempting to have complete, well-rounded interaction with the daughters.
Submitted by Contact: Sandra Price
Phone 619-297-2727
Fax 619-297-2770
Sandra@asappub.com
9. BISHOP ADAM J. RICHARDSON PREACHED DOWN UNDER:
The right Reverend Adam Jefferson Richardson was invited to preach at one of the local churches on the Sunday during the World Methodist Council Executive Committee meeting in Sydney, Australia. He preached a dynamic sermon at the Concord Uniting Church, a medium-sized, multicultural congregation.
The Rev. Yangrae Sun is the pastor of Concord Uniting Church in Sydney.
Submitted by Monique Richardson, Executive Aide to Bishop Richardson
10. URGENT MESSAGE CONNECTIONAL HEALTH COMMISSION AME CHURCH REGARDING BODY & SOUL:
The AME Church Connectional Health Commission is in the midst of closing out its partnership with the National Cancer Institute. As part of this process, we are in need of information from individual churches on their health ministry program by October 1, 2007. We need a pastor, administrator or other knowledgeable person within all churches across the connection to complete the church survey found at www.amechealth.org. If you have received this notice via email please click the following link to complete the survey:
http://www.surveymonkey.com/s.aspx?sm=19E58PhTWP9hl62_2f09h_2b6g_3d_3d
It is important for every church to complete this survey, regardless of the lack or presence of a health ministry, so that the CHC may determine the presence of any Body & Soul program component. There are several incentives- the first prize is a computer. Again, if you have any questions or concerns please contact Christine Smith at bodyandsoulforchurces@yahoo.com or 404-805-3128. You may also contact Dr. Burnett at mburnett@amechealth.org or 770-328-2002.
Christine Smith, MPH
Body & Soul Coordinator
Connectional Health Commission
AME Church
1-877-697-1994
csmith@amec.org
bodyandsoulforchurches@yahoo.com
www.amechealth.org
11. SUMMER COLLEGIUM AT VIRGINIA SEMINARY:
Greetings from Virginia Theological Seminary,
About a month ago I sent you a letter and some brochures for the Summer Collegium: A Project in Support of Small Congregations. This is a project funded by the Lilly Endowment as a way to appreciate the clergy, spouses and congregations in small membership churches, and offer them support, renewal and new energy.
Some things about the Collegium:
- Clergy participants spend nine days in Alexandria. Spouses/partners are invited to attend the first five days. All participants stay in a fine hotel for those first five days, and then clergy move to campus for the remainder of the conference.
- This project is ecumenical - open to all Christian clergy in churches in North America.
* Only 25 clergy are selected each year. We evaluate all applications postmarked by the December 15, 2007, deadline and choose 25 to attend.
* All expenses, from travel to books to pulpit supply, when they're gone, to housing and meals, are all paid for by the grant. There are NO expenses to those accepted.
As I said above, applications must be postmarked by December 15. If you haven't distributed those brochures yet, please do so soon. December creeps up quickly, and it's a rather extensive application. Application materials may be obtained from our website, www.vts.edu/education/collegium, or I will mail them to clergy who are interested.
If you'd like more brochures I'm happy to send those. Just let me know.
Thank you for your help in spreading the word about the Summer Collegium. We are entering our third summer for this 5-year program, and response so far has been terrific. Those who have attended in the past have found it to be helpful and encouraging to be in a group of all small-church folks.
Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any questions about the Summer Collegium.
Marilyn Johns, D. Min.
Project Manager, The Summer Collegium
Virginia Theological Seminary
3737 Seminary Road
Alexandria, Virginia 22304
703-461-1760
12. AN OPEN LETTER TO PRIMARILY CLERGY AND LAITY OF THE AFRICAN METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH:
As a former presiding elder and a current pastor in the African Methodist Episcopal Church, we are concerned about the ability of pastors and laity to obtain quality health insurance. This issue is a matter of concern not only for our Church, but it is also the focus of a national debate. In an effort to make a health care benefits package available to A.M.E. clergy and laity who do not have health insurance, we are writing this letter so that you may take advantage of a new offering in corporate America that provides guaranteed coverage without regards to pre-existing medical conditions.
Recently YTB International, Inc., a network marketing firm that focuses on providing vacations and on-line travel services, held its annual convention in St. Louis, MO. The chairman of the board, Mr. J. Lloyd Tomer, announced that YTB would be offering a health benefits package to anyone who becomes a referring travel agent during an open enrollment period from October 3, 2007 through November 2, 2007. Some of the plan highlights are as follows:
• Guaranteed coverage regardless of pre-existing medical conditions.
• No medical questions will be asked.
• Coverage can not be denied during the open enrollment period.
• Prescription drug program.
• Preventive care benefits.
• Emergency room & hospital benefits.
• And more...
To take advantage of this opportunity, you must enroll in the company as a referring travel agent (RTA). Enrollment requires a one-time expense of slightly less than $500.00. As an RTA you will have an on-line travel web site, and you are your own boss. You can work as little as you want, as much as you want or not at all. As long as you make the monthly payments of $49.95 for web site maintenance and the monthly cost for the insurance, you are covered by the health care benefits package.
If you wish to obtain more information or a written description of the benefits package, please call toll free 1 (866) 716-8602 or send an email to athevans@aol.com. Be prepared to provide your name, primary phone number and email address. Due to the volume of anticipated responses, email may be the best alternative; but feel free to call if email is not available.
If you do not have medical coverage, do not wait any longer. The time to act is now.
Yours in service to the Church,
Rev. George T. Sims, Jr.
Presiding Elder Emeritus
West Philadelphia District
Philadelphia Annual Conference
Rev. Arnold T. Evans
Pastor
Campbell A.M.E. Church
1657 Kinsey Street
Philadelphia, PA 19124
13. EPISCOPAL FAMILY BEREAVEMENT:
We regret to inform you of the passing of Mrs. Mary Elizabeth Robinson on Thursday, September 20, 2007. She was the wife of Brother Charles Robinson and the stepmother of Anthony Robinson. She was a faithful and committed member at Empowerment Temple AME Church in Baltimore, Maryland where her great-nephew, Dr. Jamal H. Bryant is the pastor. She was a long time member of Bethel AME Church.
The funeral has been conducted. Her nephew, Bishop John R. Bryant delivered the eulogy.
Expressions of Sympathy and Condolences may be sent to:
Mr. Charles Robinson
3513 Dennlyn Road
Baltimore, MD 21215
Phone: 410-367-8656
14. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
We regret to inform you of the passing of Deacon Dewey Wells, Sr. on Friday, September 14, 2007. He was the uncle of Rev. Robert C. Wade, Presiding Elder of the Camden/Trenton District of the New Jersey Annual Conference. The following information has been provided regarding funeral arrangements.
The funeral has been held.
Expressions of Sympathy may be sent to:
Reverend Dr. & Mrs. Robert C. Wade & Family
c/o Harrell's Funeral Home
400 East Cherry Street
Douglas, Georgia 31533
Phone: 912-384-2251
Fax: 912-393-1126
15. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
It is with regret that we announce the homegoing of Bro. Edward Pharr, husband of Rev. Brenda Pharr-Pastor at Liberty Chapel A.M.E. Church-Leander, Texas (Northwest Texas Conference-Paul Quinn College District),10th Episcopal District.
The funeral has been held.
Condolences may be sent to:
Rev. Brenda Pharr & Family
1311 Herndon Drive
Killeen, Texas 76543
Ph: (254) 699-4429
16. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
Mrs. Laura Dixon, the mother of Dr. Bobbie Jean Fann, passed away on Friday, September 14th, 2007 and was funeralized on Tuesday, September 18, 2007 at the St. James Baptist Church in Adrian, Georgia. Dr. Bobbie Jean Fann is the Pastor of The New Liberty Hill A. M. E. Church in Thomson, Georgia. New liberty Hill is situated in the Augusta Conference and the Augusta - Athens District of the Sixth Episcopal District.
Condolence may be sent to:
Dr. Bobbie Jean Fann
Post Office Box 1655
Thomson, Georgia 30824
Phone: 706-597-7984
17. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
We regret to inform you of the passing of Sister Beatrice Bessillieu. Sister Bessillieu was the wife of the deceased Presiding Elder Henry Thurston Bessillieu. She served as President of the Delaware Conference WMS for 9 years. She was also active in the Lay Organization, Church School and served as a steward of her church, Macedonia AME in Seaford, Delaware. Sister Bessillieu was 96 years old. The following information has been provided regarding funeral arrangements.
The funeral has been held.
Expressions of Sympathy may be sent to:
Mrs. Katherine Ross
c/o Macedonia AMEC
431 North Street
Seaford, DE 19973
18. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
Mr. Lee A. Bright, Jr., the oldest brother of Mrs. Mary Darby and the brother-in-law of Reverend Dr. Joseph Darby, pastor of Morris Brown AME Church, Charleston, SC, passed this morning.
Funeral Services for Mr. Lee A. Bright, Jr.:
Friday, September 28, 2007
11:00 a.m.
Mount Zion AME Church
3284 Coolers Dairy Road
Round O, SC
Phone 843-538-7457
Rev. Leroy Russell, Pastor
Services entrusted to:
Ada's Home for Funerals
264 Bell's Highway
Walterboro, SC
Phone 843-549-6800
Expressions of sympathy may be sent to:
Rev. and Mrs. Joseph A. Darby
1347 Coosaw Dr.
Charleston, SC 29407
843-766-4893
Email: josephdarby@bellsouth.net
19. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
We regretfully share the Homegoing of Mr. Mark Anthony Smith (age 47) of Louisville, Kentucky on Monday, September 24, 2007. Mr. Smith is the son of the Reverend Geoffrey S. Ellis, pastor of Embry Chapel African Methodist Episcopal Church of Elizabethtown, Kentucky and his wife, the Reverend Diedre Ellis, Associate Minister of Embry Chapel.
The Visitation will be Sunday, September 30, 2007 from 6-9, and the Celebration Worship will be Monday, October 1, 2007 at A. D. Porter and Sons Funeral Home, 1300 West Chestnut St., Louisville, KY 40203, phone (502)587-9678.
The Reverends Ellis can be contacted at 3802 Garfield Avenue, Louisville, KY 40212; phone (502)775-5829; email ellisg4021@bellsouth.net.
Submitted by Rev. Kenneth J. Golphin, 13th District Recording Secretary
20. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICES AND CONGRATULATORY ANNOUNCEMENTS PROVIDED BY:
The Clergy Family Information Center
Bishop Carolyn Tyler Guidry, Chair
Commission on Social Action
Ora L. Easley, Administrator
AMEC Clergy Family Information Center
E-mail: Amespouses1@bellsouth.net
Phone: (615) 837-9736
Voice Mail: (615) 833-6936
Fax: (615) 833-3781
Cell: (615) 403-7751
21. 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. EDITORIAL – “THE TIME HAS COME; NO, THE TIME IS PAST…”:
Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III
Do you realize that 2008 is almost upon us?
At the CONVO in 1999 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, I stood up and cautioned those in attendance that the new millennium of the 21st Century was fast approaching and that it was important that we, as a Church, needed to embrace technology and move along the “information highway,” into the 21st Century, with the rest of the world community.
About thirty email addresses were collected, and a group of us who had computers and was connected to the Internet began to exchange and share information about what was going on in the AME Church. We didn’t know it at the time, but that was the genesis of The Christian Recorder Online.
The AME Church had technology pioneers prior to the Philadelphia CONVO that included, A.M.E. Today that was published by the late Rev. John Fisher. Other pioneers included the Rev. Alton Paris, Brother and Sister Eric and Stephanie Stradford; Brother James H. S. Smith (Smitty), a layman from the Baltimore area, and later the A.M.E. Herald published by the Rev. Denise Rogers, and others. The AME Church had visionaries, and even though we got off to a slow start, we got off to a start.
And, though we got off to a slow start, a number, of our pastors and laity, are computer-savvy and churches are connected to the internet. But, we have stalled in areas where there is no reason for us, as a Church, to be mired.
For example, simple areas such as Annual Pastors’ Reports, Quarterly Conference Reports, and reports to the General Secretary are still being submitted in paper format. This is absolutely ludicrous, seven years; almost eight years into the new millennium. We can do better!
The time has come for the bishops of the Church to courageously exercise their Godly judgment in the areas of progress and technology in the Church, to say to presiding elders and pastors, “As of a certain date, say, February 14, 2008, all reports will be submitted electronically. No more paper reports!”
Presiding elders need to be courageous and say to pastors, “As of, say, February 14, 2008, no more paper Quarterly Conference reports; all Quarterly Conference reports will be submitted electronically!”
Pastors should be courageous and say to heads of local church boards, “All local church reports will be submitted to the pastor electronically as of February 14, 2008.”
We are living in the age of technology and technology is not going away; it’s here to stay and technology is being updated daily, and even hourly.
I would hope that every church has a telephone today. Well, we are now at the point where every church should have a computer and be connected to the internet.
Some pastors and local church leaders might have blurred vision, but our bishops and presiding elders must have a clear vision for the Church and the wherewithal to make executive leadership decisions that will facilitate operational efficiencies and church growth.
An effective organization does not operate on laissez-faire leadership. There comes a point in any organization where decisions have to be made and organizational deadlines established and obeyed.
Some might argue that we have a lot of small local churches that are financially constrained and pastors and presiding elders who are not computer-savvy. Computers are relatively inexpensive and people are upgrading their personal computers regularly. It’s not hard to get a computer and new computers at Wal-Mart and other outlets are inexpensive. Smaller local churches that cannot afford a computer and cannot get a donated computer would need to partner with one of the larger churches in the annual conference, to get their electronic reports completed. The requirement for electronic reports might get pastors talking and coordinating with each other; and that would be a good thing. If a pastor or presiding elder came to me for assistance in getting an electronic report completed, I would be honored to assist him or her, as long as he or she didn’t wait until the last minute.
As for presiding elders and pastors who are not computer-savvy, the deadline and requirement for electronic reports would send a clear signal to them that they need to do what they need to do to get educated. Computer literacy is not rocket science. I would suspect in most cases, there is at least one person in every church that is computer literate or if there is a pre-teenager or teenager in a local church or in the neighborhood, that could show an adult the “ins and outs” of using a computer and how to access the internet. It is absolutely essential that the AME Church moves forward and stays abreast of technology and its impact upon ministry, locally, globally, and connectionally.
And, another thing
Electronic transfer of funds is more efficient than checks and cash. The time is past for pastors to be standing around waiting for their pay checks each Sunday or a presiding elder to be standing around waiting for his or her quarterly conference check.
Local churches should arrange for an electronic transfer of funds to pay their pastors, pay the presiding elder assessments, and if local churches wanted to be more efficient, pay all of their bills electronically. The electronic payment of bills is more efficient and creates a more professional environment.
Connectional and annual conference budget requirements and payments for periodicals should be done electronically. Banks and local churches can easily arrange for electronic transfer of funds; and good banks will do so without additional bank charges. The time has come to use technology to enhance ministry and to increase operational efficiencies.
“The time has come; no, the time is past,” for us, as the AME Church, locally and connectionally, to immediately transition ourselves into the 21st Century.
2. FREE CONFERENCE CALL SERVICE:
Pastors and local churches could probably conduct some meetings via conference calls instead of members putting fuel in their automobiles and driving to meetings, especially in the winter. The conference call-in number is in Iowa, so for most folks, that call would be a long-distance call; but that’s cheaper than gasoline and the time saved would make a conference call meeting more cost effective. I invite you to check this out and share it with your presiding elders and pastors.
The message is ready to be sent with the following file or link attachments:
Shortcut to: https://www.freeconference.com/ConferenceCall.aspx
Editor’s note: I signed up for the program and the signup is straight-forward and easy, i.e., no credit card information is requested. You may use your regular email system, i.e., Outlook, AOL, Yahoo, etc.
3. READER RESPONSE TO EDITORIAL AND OTHER ISSUES:
- To the Editor:
I just wanted to say how proud I am of the AME Church for “stepping up to the plate” during this time of gross injustice regarding the Jena 6 situation.
I applaud our bishops, presiding elders, clergy and laity for being bold and courageous enough to say, “Enough is Enough!”
And, thank you for reporting it.
Pastor Bruce L. Francis
Macedonia AME Church
Rex, GA
- To the Editor:
RE: My thoughts on Jena 6:
Today there are nationwide rally's being held in support of the Jena 6.
There has been a growing rally of support all across the country for these teens. Today a rally is being held in Jena, Louisiana, Washington, D.C. and all across the country. Additionally, people were asked to wear all black in support of the teens today.
There are several things about this case that bothers me. I think what bothers me the most though, is that this is something that is even happening in 2007. I think about the Civil Rights heroes like Dr. King, Medgar Evers, the 4 girls killed in the Birmingham Church Bombing, The Freedom riders and so many more and I wonder.....why are we still going through this? Wasn't there enough blood shed on that bridge in Selma? When is this going to ever end?
From what I can gather, people around the country are mostly outraged and angry about the injustice of the situation. I'm angry. But mostly I'm sad. I'm sad that my little nieces, Ava and Anaiah have to grow up in a world where this can still happen. I'm sad that my God-daughters Paris and Kamryn have to live in a world where this kind of injustice is still occurring. I'm sad that each day as my little God-son, Avon goes off to school, I have to worry about whether or not his classmates are going to hang a noose on a tree.
I'm praying for this world. I'm praying for the families of the Jena 6. I hope that today, you will take some time to reflect on this situation and how it effects us all. Just because you may not be directly affected, this still should be of concern to us all. Remember, a threat to justice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.
I'm wearing my all black today. Are you? "In the end, we will remember, not the words of our enemies, but the silence of our friends." - Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
Lynnette Barrett
- To the Editor:
RE: Jena 6
The 13th District office is wearing black today; all of us, including the majority of the Sunday School Union! Many will be attending worship services tonight in solidarity as this struggle continues.
We, who were the first to be bussed across town at dawn to compete with students, who slept until seven; who experienced the challenges of a dangerous racist mindset yesterday and the residual racism that is being uncovered all across America; We who carried picket signs and march in the first Civil Rights era join those in Louisiana in spirit to stand again for justice and freedom.
We cheered the Vanderbilt students who are even now demonstrating on Broadway/West End Avenue, a major street corner on the edge of the campus.
Evil depends on the silence of good men and women! (Edmund Burke) There comes a time when our silence is betrayal (Martin King Jr.) Now is the time to speak up!
Bishop Vashti Murphy McKenzie
- To the Editor:
RE: A Minister’s Public Lesson on Domestic Violence
I try not to be too critical of anyone in ministry, but we, as a people, need a serious reality check when it comes to authentic ministry.
Too many of the "new" churches are just like new night clubs - they spring up overnight, enjoy instant popularity, and often go under when a newer one springs up!
Dr. Joseph Darby
- To the Editor:
I wanted to take the time to thank you for The Christian Recorder Online edition. It is good to have weekly updates of what is happening around the connectional church as well as the articles you have done on the “Sins of Church…Pastors, Leaders, and Members.” I think it gives an excellent view of how we as a church can better strengthen ourselves, because I feel that the African Methodist Episcopal Church is one of the best things going in the body of Christ. The priority we put on an educated ministry is something that has set the pattern for many of the denominations where there was not an emphasis, but now they too have seen the benefit that an educated and prepared clergy can bring to the growth, development, and expansion of the Church and God’s people.
Please continue bringing to us the information and insight that you do.
Rev. Jerome Stembridge
Pastor – Mt. Zion AME Church
Princeton, New Jersey
- To the Editor:
RE: Jena 6
Sometimes we forget and think we have made it and see comments made by Bill O’Reilly on his syndicated show.
We still need to fight for racial justice and equality in this country that we helped build. Don’t forget, the battle is not over, I hope everyone watched the documentary on CNN regarding the Jena Six. We need to rally again and again; this is not over, the Neo-Nazi groups posted the boys name and addresses and offered a reward to anyone that would deal out punishment (hang our young black males). There have been incidents in North Carolina, etc.
Please, let us as the Church of Sarah and Richard Allen, be more vocal in this quest for justice, not just for the Jena 6, but the young black men in other states. The young girl in Texas was recently released with help from the NAACP Legal Defense and a State Representative. I know we can make a difference if we stand as a united front.
Brenda Jackson, Consultant
bjackson@klproperties.com
4. THE PRESS REPORT OF THE 140TH SESSION OF THE PITTSBURGH ANNUAL CONFERENCE:
- September 5-9, 2007:
The evening of Monday, September 3, 2007, the Women’s Missionary Society held their annual banquet at the Holiday Inn, Wilkinsburg, PA. Local W.M.S. Presidents were honored for their missionary work by Mrs. Frances Jackson, President and those presidents who were present were presented with a certificate by the Episcopal Supervisor, Rev. Rowena Webster White and Mrs. Kathleen Reid, 3rd District W.M.S. President.
The following day, Tuesday, September 4, 2007, The Pittsburgh Conference Women’s Missionary Society gathered together for their Annual Day that was held at The “Historic” St. James A.M.E. Church, Pittsburgh, PA. Elections were held under the leadership of Episcopal Supervisor, Rev. Rowena Webster White and elected into office for the 2007-2008 Conference year were:
Deborah Gray – President
Barbara Young - Vice President
Barbara Lyles – 2nd Vice President
Stacy Williams – 3rd Vice President
Judith Lewis – Recording Secretary
Monique Knight – Assistant Recording Secretary
Shelly Brown – Correspondence Secretary
Sarah Lane – Treasurer
Gwendolyn Cooley – Y.P.D. Director
Dr. Sylvia Wade – P.M.E. Director
Nancy Brown – Parliamentarian
Marsha Washington – Historiographer/Statistician
Martha Miott – Worshiper Leader
Members at Large –
Lillie Wheeler
Mary Burleigh
Lowell Owens
Alma Johnson
Nellie Bryant
Episcopal Supervisor Rev. Rowena Webster White and all of the Pittsburgh Conference Missionaries gave applause to Mrs. Frances Jackson for her tenor as President of the Pittsburgh Annual Conference for four years and for her dedication and work.
The 140th Session of the Pittsburgh Annual Conference was hosted by The “Historic” St. James African Methodist Episcopal Church, Pittsburgh, PA from September 5–9, 2007 The Right Reverend Bishop Robert Vaughn Webster, presiding. The host Presiding Elder, Rev. Dr. Eric L. Brown, co-host Presiding Elder, Rev. Samson Cooper, and the host pastor, Rev. James E. Murray, Jr.
On Wednesday, September 5, 2007, Bishop Robert Vaughn Webster, Episcopal Supervisor Rev. Rowena Webster White, Presiding Elder Samson M. Cooper, Presiding Elder Rev. Dr. Eric Brown, clergy from the Pittsburgh District and Allegheny Scranton District, delegates, and friends assembled for Roll Call and organization of this 140th Session of the Pittsburgh Annual Conference.
The Annual Sermon was preached by the Reverend Samuel Chambers, Pastor of Payne Chapel A.M.E. Church – Duquesne, PA. Text was taken from John 21:4. Sermon Topic was “In His Presence”. Rev. Samuel Chambers preached about the Disciples witnessing so many miraculous things that Jesus did but they still questioned what they had witnessed. Although they were with Jesus on a daily basis, there were trying times for the Disciples because they looked back. One of the reasons the church today cannot move forward is because they are too busy looking back. Rev. Samuel Chambers said another reason why the church can’t move forward is because people refuse to forgive others. The Rev. Chambers inspirational message detailed how a person can be in the presence of the Lord and not know it. He encouraged the Church to keep their eyes on Jesus and He will take care of everything.
The Spirit of the Lord filled this place and the Holy Eucharist was celebrated with Chief Celebrant, The Right Bishop Robert Vaughn Webster.
The election of Ministerial and Lay Delegates to the 48th Session of the General Conference of the African Methodist Episcopal Church which will be held in St. Louis, Missouri July 4-8, 2008 was held Wednesday Afternoon. Bishop Robert Vaughn Webster declared the following to represent the Pittsburgh Annual Conference:
Ministerial Delegation:
1. Presiding Elder Rev. Dr. Eric Brown
2. Rev. David W. Bethea
3. Rev. Brenda J. Gregg
4. Rev. James E. Murray, Jr.
5. Rev. Samuel Chambers
6. Rev. James McLemore
7. Rev. Lawrence Thompson, Jr.
Alternate Ministerial Delegation:
1. Rev. Dr. Judith C. Moore
2. Rev. Yolanda S. Wright
3. Rev. Alfred Thompson
4. Rev. Byron Jordan
5. Rev. Arthur E. Doctor Jr.
6. Rev. Joella Williams
7. Rev. Kary Williams Jr.
Lay Delegation:
1. Bert C. Ogden Sr.
2. Ruth Smith
3. Andre Nelson
4. Dr. Gary Hart
5. Johnnie Miott
6. Gladys Russell
7. Ashleigh Bethea (Youth)
Alternate Lay Delegation:
1. Linda West
2. Robert Chambers
3. Tajuana Brown
4. Stacy Williams
5. Louis Young
6. Lowell Owens
7. Wendell Robinson (Youth)
The “Historic” St. James A.M.E. Church family, as well as local dignitaries welcomed everyone to this Session. The Afro-American Institute Boy’s Choir sang songs of Zion.
Ecumenical Men’s Night Worship Celebration the Reverend Delano R. Paige, Pastor Rodman Street Missionary Baptist Church, preached from Ephesians 2:8-10 about God attaching a picture with every letter. He said that we have people who cannot read but still God’s message is able to reach them. He gave points on people being a part of the human predicament, but God is always able to provide a heavenly provision. Rev. Paige said, “Do not ever be ashamed of how God made you. You are who you are by the grace of God.”
Rev. Dr. Thomas Liggins, Administrative Assistant and 3rd District Accountant and Rev. Dr. L. Anthony Gatewood, Presiding Elder of the Columbus District, Columbus, OH and Assistant Conference Lecturer were the presenters for the Conference Institute for the week. Presiding Elder Gatewood spoke on the topic of church building through a spiritual aspect. Rev. Gatewood said that building is part of church development and we need to develop a spiritual perspective that will help the church to grow spiritually. Spiritual discipline comes from reading the Bible, meditating on God’s Word and talking with God. The recommended reading, “Go Build a Church! Spiritual Administration for Church Growth” by Dr. James F. Miller, helps to lay out a blueprint for pastors and church members to follow.
Thursday, September 6, 2007: Following the morning business session as minutes were corrected and organization of the Finance Committee completed, the preacher of the Noon Day Service was The Reverend Isaiah Waddy, St. Peter A.M.E. Church, Atlanta, GA. The Reverend Isaiah Waddy preached from II Kings 22:1-7 and his topic was “We Need Reform”. Rev. Waddy enlightened the congregation by preaching a message which included the ways that reformation can take root in the church. He said that although the word reform means to improve by altering; correcting error or eliminating abuse and malpractice; however, true reformation comes when you have been baptized by the Holy Spirit. Rev. Waddy said we have to be obedient to God if you do what the Lord says, it will bless you not some of the time, but all of the time. He also testified about the power of prayer from when he was sick the Lord showed him in a vision what he needed to do and because he was obedient to God, God blessed him. An invitation for people to be healed was extended by Rev. Waddy and the altar was full of people who came forth for prayer. This was an outstanding spiritually anointed message that was felt through the hearts of the congregants.
The afternoon business consisted of Presiding Elder Rev. Dr. Eric L. Brown Summary Report and the Pastoral Reports of the Allegheny Scranton District were read during the Thursday Afternoon’s Business Session.
The Pittsburgh Annual Conference Lay Organization presided over the evening service. Ms Sharon Smith Banks, President of the West Virginia Conference Lay Organization and Director of New Student Programs at West Virginia State University was the speaker. Ms. Smith’s message was “Laymen Working for His Purpose”. Ms. Banks stated that people need to go outside the walls of their own comfort zone. Laymanship is more than lip service. It means reaching out to the less fortunate, to the homeless, to hungry children and those who fall by the wayside. You have to humble yourself, it is not about you; it is about God. Ruth Smith, Director of the Lay Activities Pittsburgh Conference made the following presentation of an African Bowl on behalf of the Pittsburgh AIDS Task Force:
Ms. Sharon Smith Banks, President West Virginia Conference Lay President; Bethel, Irwin; St. Paul, Washington; Christ Temple, McKeesport; Ebenezer, Aliquippa; and Allen Chapel, Elizabeth.
Ruth Smith stated that a total of 23 of these awards have been given this Conference year.
Presentations were also made by:
a. Martha Miott presented Presiding Elder Eric Brown with a proclamation and a T-shirt.
b. Wendell Robinson presented Presiding Elder Samson Cooper with the “Distinguished Living Witness Award”.
c. Bert C. Ogden, Sr. led the congregation in singing Happy Birthday to Dr. Willie Glover.
d. He also presented Dr. Willie Glover with a token of appreciation.
e. James Beatty presented Episcopal Supervisor Rev. Rowena Webster White with a proclamation as an honorary member of the Pittsburgh Lay Organization as a well as a token of appreciation.
f. James Beatty presented Bishop Robert Vaughn Webster with a proclamation as an honorary member of the Pittsburgh Lay Organization as well as a token of appreciation.
Friday, September 8, 2007: The Morning Business continued with the Reading of the Pastors’ Annual Report of the Allegheny Scranton District.
The “Hour of Power” Noon Day Sermon was preached by Rev. John K. Frazier, St. Paul A.M.E. Church, Pittsburgh. Rev. Frazier’s topic was “A Divine Call You Needed”. Scripture Ezekiel 2:1-9. Rev. John K. Frazier preached about how the Lord calls us to do something and often times we ignore it. We should be prepared at all times because you never know when He is going to call. We must answer and obey the call and when we do He will reward us.
The Afternoon Business consisted of reading and correction of the minutes by the Conference Secretary, Rev. Jeannette Hubbard. The Board of Examiners then presented their recommendations:
Admitted on trial - Donus Crawford, Jr. and Hazel Kelly
Elected and Ordained - Rev. Donus Crawford, Jr., Local deacon
Rev. Melva Hartzog, Local elder
Rev. John Higgins, Local elder
Rev. Mortty Ivy, Local elder
Rev. Lloyd King, Local elder
Wilberforce Night: The Wilberforce Choir blessed the congregation through the singing ministry. The following selections were rendered by the choir under the direction of Mr. Jeremy Winston and Dr. Everett Jones:
“Lift Every Voice and Sing”, “Sing Unto the Lord (in Hebrew)” “I Ain’t Got Long To Be Here”, “In My Father’s House”, “You Must Have That True Religion”, “John 1:1 In the Beginning was the Word”, “Elijah”, “Great is God’s Faithfulness”.
Mr. Jeremy Winston stated that this the largest freshmen class in the 151 years of this Institution.
Saturday, September 8, 2007: Morning Business opened with the reading and correction of minutes and Presiding Elder Samson Cooper reading the summary report of the Pittsburgh District followed by Pittsburgh District Pastors’ Annual Reports.
The Ordination Service began at 10:30 a.m. which included the Memorial and Retirement Service for the following:
The Rev. Melvin Davis, Ebenezer – Aliquippa was the worship leader for the Memorial Service. The persons eulogized:
Bishops:
The Right Reverend Robert Thomas, Jr.
Remarks given by Bishop Robert Vaughn Webster
Ministers:
Reverend David U. Brown
Reverend Charles Buckner
Reverend Barbara Gant
Reverend Mabel Gessendanner
Reverend Jessie Thrower
Remarks given by Rev. Dr. Helen M. Burton
Evangelists:
Evangelist Lula I. Reid
Remarks given by Rev. Dr. Helen M. Burton
Church School Superintendents:
Mrs. Evelyn Dudley – Emeritus
Mr. Modican Simms – Emeritus
Remarks given by Rev. Samuel Chambers
Deaconess:
Deaconess Catherine Thomas
Church Trustees:
Mr. Mitchell Spriggs
Mr. Richard Thomas Copeland
The Retirement Service:
The Conference Secretary, Rev. Jeannette Hubbard, presented the four retirees; Rev. Bertha Morrison, Rev. Vodia Smith, Rev. Wilma Jean Smith, and Rev. Samson Manoah Cooper.
Rev. Bertha Morrison:
Licensed in 1985.
Ordained in 1994
Churches served: St. Paul Bellefonte and Allen Chapel Clearfield
Rev. Vodia Smith:
Licensed in 1981
Ordained in 1991
Churches served: St. Stephens Latrobe, Pennsylvania, Israel West Middletown, Bethel Irwin and Pleasant Green Belle Vernon.
Rev. Wilma Jean Smith:
Evangelist in 1972
Licensed in 1977
Ordained in 1982
Churches served: Trinity Ellwood City, Arnet Butler, Bethel Tarentum, and St. John Bridgewater
Reverend Samson Manoah Cooper:
Licensed in 1936 at the age of five
Ordained in 1953
Churches served: St. Andrews Cochocton, Ohio, Grace Bellefontaine, Ohio, Bethel Scranton, Pennsylvania, St. Paul, Pittsburgh, Brown Chapel, Pittsburgh, Young Chapel, Huntington, West Virginia, Park Place, Homestead, Pennsylvania, Bethel, Pittsburgh, and Payne, Duquesne, Pennsylvania.
Bishop Robert Vaughn Webster commended all the retirees for their dedication, growth and expansion to the African Methodist Episcopal Church.
The Ordination Sermon was preached by Rev. Dr. Eric L. Brown, Presiding Elder Allegheny Scranton District. Scripture was taken from Mark 5:19. The theme “Tell the Story”. Presiding Elder Eric Brown stated to the Congregation the fact is we live in a world of terrorism, drugs, murder, and even church folk who are overcome by demons. If God didn’t call you, you won’t quit despite of this. You are to bring your light in the midst of darkness. Ministry is a calling and not a career. You are called to “Tell the Story” to all for them to believe in God’s Word, to walk in God’s way and to work out their soul salvation.
The Ordination of Deacons: Rev. Donus Crawford, Jr., Local Deacon
The Ordination of the Elders: Rev. John Higgins - Local Elder
Rev. Lloyd King – Local Elder
Rev. Mortty Ivy – Local Elder
Rev. Melva Hartzog – Local Elder
Bishop Robert Vaughn Webster was the chief celebrant for the service of Holy Communion.
The Afternoon Business concluded with the reading of the Pittsburgh District Pastors’ Annual Reports. Bishop Robert Vaughn Webster commended Presiding Elder Samson Cooper for his 66 years of service in the African Methodist Episcopal Church. Bishop Robert Vaughn Webster thanked Presiding Elder Samson Cooper for his fatherly touch and all he has done for African Methodism.
The reading and recommendation of the following reports were read: Trustee Report, Committee Missions Circuits and Stations, Presiding Elder Support Committee, Adams-Anderson Trust Fund, and Treasurer’s Report.
Y.P.D. Night showcased the talent of the youth in the Powerful Pittsburgh Conference which included mimes, liturgical dance, piano solo, and soloists. The youth certainly are on fire for the Lord!
The Commission Service Sunday, September 9, 2007:
The Preacher, the Right Reverend Robert Vaughn Webster, Presiding prelate, 3rd Episcopal District preached a dynamic sermon. Bishop Webster’s text was Jeremiah 12:5 and his sermon topic was entitled, “Labor.”
Bishop Robert Vaughn Webster used the example of how Jeremiah struggled and his hope in God was all he had. We must trust in God. Bishop Webster stated that God gives preachers a word and you must mediate and read the Word of God and ask what is the message he wants you to deliver Don’t use that hour to fuss about other people from the pulpit. People want to hear “thus saith the Lord”. You must not only teach people how to live but you must also teach them how to do.
Certificates were presented by Bishop Robert Vaughn Webster.
The Conference Choir, under the direction of Duchess Overton, Bethel A.M.E. Church, Meadville, PA, truly sang the Songs of our Zion which ushered the Holy Spirit into this Holy Place over the week.
Bishop Robert Vaughn Webster then read appointments for the Allegheny Scranton District and the Pittsburgh District.
Allegheny Scranton District
Presiding Elder Rev. Dr. Eric L. Brown
St. James, Pittsburgh Rev. James E. Murray, Jr.
St. James, Erie Rev. Dr. Eugene Schoolfield II
Greater Allen, Pittsburgh Rev. Brenda J. Gregg
First Church, Clairton Rev. Dr. Judith C. Moore
Calvary, Braddock Rev. Lois Thomas
Payne, Duquesne Rev. Samuel Chambers
Wayman Chapel, New Brighton Rev. Kary Williams, Jr.
Ebenezer, Aliquippa Rev. Melvin Davis
St. Mark. Wilkinsburg Rev. Byron Jordan
Greater Morris, Farrell Rev. Marvin Morris
Bethel, Scranton Rev. Kenneth Burnett
Bethel, Tarentum Rev. Dr. Helen M. Burton
Bethel, Meadville Rev. Acquanetta Osborne
Bethel, New Castle Rev. Jeannette Hubbard
Bethel, Wilkes-Barre Rev. Wilhelmenia Coleman
Bethel, Mt. Union Rev. Sylvia Morris
Bethel, Lewistown Rev. Bernard Carpenter
St. John, Bridgewater Rev. Lawrence Haynes
St. Paul, Milton Rev. Donald Spiller
Payne, Huntingdon Rev. Lloyd King
Nesmith, West Mifflin Rev. Cheryl Ruffin
St. Paul, Bellefonte Rev. Benjamin Morrison
Allen Chapel, Clearfield To be supplied
New Life Rev. Melva Hartzog
Bethel, Williamsport Rev. Donald Spiller
PITTSBURGH DISTRICT
Presiding Elder Rev. Samson M. Cooper (temporary)
Bethel, Pittsburgh Rev. Dr. James McLemore
Park Place, Homestead Rev. David W. Bethea
St. Paul, Washington Rev. Arthur E. Doctor Jr.
Brown Chapel, Pittsburgh Rev. Lawrence Thompson, Jr.
St. Paul, Pittsburgh Rev. John K. Frazier
St. Paul, McKeesport Rev. Yolanda S. Wright
St. Paul, Uniontown Rev. Alfred L. Thompson Jr.
Trinity, Pittsburgh Rev. Bernard Gaiton
Wayman, Monessen Rev. Eleanor Williams
Bethel, Monroeville Rev. Samuel Ware
Bethel, Monongahela Rev. Kay Frazier
Mt. Zion, Brownsville Rev. Carl Kemp
Christian Chapel, Pittsburgh Rev. Lissa Foster
Payne, Connellsville Rev. Alfred L. Thompson, Jr.
Christ Temple, McKeesport Rev. Joella Williams
Bethel, Johnstown Rev. Cassandra Maultsby
Bethel, Irwin Rev. Mildred Taylor
Allen Chapel, Elizabeth Rev. Marilyn Fisher
Quinn Chapel, Donora Rev. Eleanor Williams
Bethel, Greensburg Rev. Cordell Bennett
St. Paul, West Newton Rev. Josephine George
Payne, Canonsburg Rev. Mortty Ivy
St. Stephens, Latrobe Rev. Rhonda Frazier-Higgins
Pleasant Green, Belle Vernon To be supplied
Israel, West Middletown To be supplied
Rev. Dr. James McLemore, Rev. James E. Murray, Jr., Presiding Elder Samson Cooper, and Presiding Elder Eric Brown thanked Bishop Robert Vaughn Webster for his leadership and example he set for the 3rd District and wished him a happy retirement for which a standing ovation was given.
Submitted by: Shelly Brown
Pittsburgh Annual Conference Church Press
5. THE 7TH DISTRICT’S 2007 PALMETTO ANNUAL CONFERENCE, LED BY BISHOP PRESTON W. WILLIAMS II, WAS A MEMORABLE EVENT:
*Benjamin Harrison
Monday, August 20th to Friday, August 24th, the 7th District of the African Methodist Episcopal Church, which encompasses the entire state of South Carolina, convened in Charleston for the first of its 2007 annual conferences entitled the Palmetto Annual Conference. This week long event was held at Morris Brown A.M.E. Church located at 13 Morris Street in Charleston, S.C., where the Rev. Joseph A. Darby is pastor. The Palmetto Conference is comprised of the Mount Pleasant, Kingstree, and Georgetown Districts and with approximately 50,000 local members is the largest of six annual conferences in the 7th Episcopal District. This was the 97th session of the Palmetto Annual Conference and the final series of conferences for this quadrennial before next summer’s 2008 General Conference in St. Louis, Missouri.
The following article is derived from the resolution which was submitted on August 24, 2007, by the Rev. Barbara Chisolm, pastor of Jehovah A.M.E. Church in Cross, S.C., and the Palmetto Annual Conference Resolution Committee.
By the grace of almighty God, in His great providence, He has allowed us to come together once more. Tuesday, at 8:33 a.m., the opening of the 7th District’s 97th session of the Palmetto Annual Conference was called to order by Bishop Preston W. Williams II, presiding prelate of the 7th District, at historic Morris Brown A.M.E. Church, where Rev. Joseph A. Darby is host pastor. Bishop Williams called for the order of the day which began with committee reports followed by the roll call of ministers. At 10:30 a.m., as we waited on the Lord, we trusted by faith in Him, and He allowed His presence and wonderful works to be known as the Morris Brown choir, pastors, presiding elders, leadership, and laity sang processional hymn # 568, “God of Our Father.” As we entered the great cathedral, the Rev. Charles Graves, Host Presiding Elder of the Mt. Pleasant District, established protocol and led us in spiritual worship. The preacher was the Rev. Frank Moses, pastor of Olive Branch A.M.E. Church in Mt. Pleasant, and the Olive Branch choir presented their pastor by singing, “In the word of God, I find it all in the word of God!” Rev. Moses preached from Genesis 37:24; 41:40-42, on the subject, “From the Pit to the Palace,” and asked, “When God is for you, who can be against you? God can, in time, move us from the pits of life to the palace of His glory. Joseph was a tall, handsome young man and the gift that God had given him caused others to become jealous and angry for unjust reasons. We must be careful of those who can’t handle what God has given to us.” The worship experience ended after Holy Communion.
At 3:30 p.m. the afternoon session continued with the role call of the conference members and the business session ended at 5:30 pm. At 7:00 p.m. the WMS Night in Mission began under the theme, “Standing in the Gap for Those in Need!” The Rev. Rose Goodwater preached from the text of Habakkuk 2:21 and her subject was, “Sowing with a Vision!” WMS officers for 2007-2008 were acknowledged, Sis. Tanya Harper, WMS Palmetto Conference President, sowed seeds by providing checks for $32,000 and $3,000 to the 7th District, and the service ended with remarks from Bishop Williams.
Wednesday, at 8:30 a.m., Bishop Williams called for the continuation at Morris Street Baptist Church where Rev. Griffin is pastor. The business session included the ending of the role call and was followed by the Palmetto Elders’ summaries of each district, and pastors' reports. The session was ended at 11:50 a.m. by Bishop Williams with a continuant.
At 12:00 noon, “The Hour of Power” began as the Rev. Donnie McBride invited the conference to transition from business to spiritual enlightenment. The anointed preacher was the Rev. Dr. Harold Mayberry of the 5th District, who shared that, “Godly leadership is possible when you have good follower-ship!” His subject was, “How to survive when the heat gets turned up,” and his text was taken from the book of Daniel, 3:14-26. Dr. Mayberry preached three primary messages. One, when the enemy wants control he will try to change your name; so don’t let others establish your ID, and don’t compromise your praise. Two, resist the temptation to diminish your character, and resist those who do not belong in your lives; cut off the dead weight. Three, we can serve when the heat is turned up, if we can discern the presence of the Lord in the fire. God is in the fire and He remains in the fire to protect us when we must go in because at some point everyone will have a fire experience. The hour of power ended and Bishop Williams recessed the conference for lunch.
The conference reconvened at 3:30 p.m. and Bishop Williams called for pastors reports. The Mt. Pleasant District went first, the Kingstree District followed, and at 6:00 p.m. the business session ended. At 7:00 p.m. the Young People’s Division conducted their worship service under the theme, “The Struggle Is Over: Don’t Break Down, Break Through!” There was a wonderful display of the youths’ talents and abilities, including a drill conducted by the conference drill team and an official welcome by the Palmetto Conference Sunbeams and Allen Stars. They also performed a skit related to the theme, “The Struggle is Over,” and shared that Jesus is the answer to all struggles! Encouraging words were offered by Sister Tanya Harper, Sister Bernice Sanders, WMS Episcopal President, and Sister Cheryl Swinton, YPD Episcopal Director. Bishop Williams provided the closing remarks to what was a tremendous evening of excitement and wonder.
Thursday, at 8:45 a.m., Bishop Williams continued with the business session at Morris Brown A.M.E. Church. He called to establish the boundaries for the election of delegates for the General Conference to be recognized and numbered. At 11:40 a.m. the session ended as the conference prepared for a shared worship experience with Allen University. Dr. Charles Young, President of Allen University, praised the 7th District leadership, stating that, “The work we have done will speak for us!” He testified that Allen University has stood the test of time and today still stands strong! With great encouragement, he shared a text with the conference from I Corinthian, Chapter 15, on the subject, “Got victory, Got victory!” Dr. Young stated that, “We can’t spend all of our mental and spiritual time in battle. Paul shared that there was a war going on within. But thanks be to God that the believer has victory through Christ Jesus!” Bishop Williams then called for a continuant after lunch and a return at 3:20 p.m.
At 3:30 p.m. Bishop Williams acknowledged the Christian Education Department and recognized its director, Sister Kabrina Bass and the CED committee. Highlights were given on the special project for disease control (arthritis), as well as the new FAN project provided for the 7th District. There was a continuant of the election for delegates to the General Conference, delegates were given their assignments and locations, and the election process went forward. Upon its completion, Bishop Williams ended the business session.
At 7:00 p.m., Annual Lay Witness Night began, and what a witness it was! The speaker for the occasion was Attorney Renee Gaiters, a member of Ebenezer A.M.E. Church. She read from Ephesians 6:6, on the subject, “Refocusing on Ministry to Serve the Present Age!” Sister Gaiters professed that there were three necessary elements in ministering to the present age. One, we must serve productively both the church and our community; two, we must earnestly try to meet the needs of others; and three, we must identify our strengths by improving our weaknesses. The night ended with preparation for the final day of the Palmetto Annual Conference.
Friday, the conference opened at 8:00 a.m. at Greater Saint Luke A.M.E. Church where the Rev. L. T. Baker is pastor. Bishop Williams called for the pastors' reports from the Georgetown District, followed by the Board of Examiners. Bishop Williams then called for the Ordination Worship Service, where the preacher was the Rev. John Gillison, Presiding Elder of the Edisto District of the South Carolina Annual Conference. Elder Gillison’s text was taken from St. Matthew 28:20, on the subject, “Life Insurance: A Coverage You Can Depend On,” and the ordination of six deacons followed the powerful worship experience. Later, at 6:00 p.m., church school began under the theme, “Malachi Describes God’s Just Judgment.” Bishop Williams called for the conference minutes and the final business of the conference, followed by the closing worship service. The preacher for the final hour was Bishop Frank C. Cummings, Retired Bishop.
During this conference week we were graced with the presence of numerous outstanding visitors and guests such as: Retired Bishop Zedekiah L. Grady and Mother Grady, Retired Bishop Fredrick C. James and Mother James, General Officer Dr. George F. Flowers, Executive Director of Global Witness and Ministry, Dr. Stanford Wicker of the 6th District, the Rev. Reginald T. Jackson of the 18th District, The Honorable Joe Riley, Mayor of the city of Charleston, S.C., the Rev. Dr. Harold Mayberry, Chairman of the Episcopal Committee and pastor in the 5th District, and the Rev. Philip R. Cousin of the 2nd District, among others.
This 97th session of the Palmetto Annual Conference was conducted in reflection of the grace of almighty God and His great providence in allowing us to come together one more time. Not because of what we have done, but by His amazing grace alone. The Rt. Reverend Preston W. Williams II, presiding prelate of the 7th District, confirmed historic Morris Brown A.M.E. Church as a key historical site where the revolutionary battle for change began burning for the A.M.E. Church. The Rev. Joseph Darby and the faithful members of Morris Brown A.M.E. Church were commended for the excellent manner in which they hosted the conference. The Rev. L. T. Baker and the considerate members of St. Luke A.M.E. Church were thanked for their generosity in opening their doors and assisting in the conference experience. The Rev. Griffin, pastor of Morris Brown Baptist Church, was commended as well for the church’s hospitality in accommodating our denomination in its times of need. To God be the glory for the good things He has done!
Throughout the conference we waited on the Lord and trusted in Him through faith and His presence was made known by His wonderful works as His spirit moved through us all. Minds were transformed, bodies were healed, and salvation was imparted. Preachers preached, and elders and pastors presented excellent reports. The conference was filled with spiritual empowerment, enlightenment, and dedication to service. It is with joy and thanksgiving that we applaud Bishop Preston W. Williams II, presiding prelate of the nation-state of South Carolina for his spirited leadership throughout the entire 97th session of the Palmetto Annual Conference. Bishop Williams offered profound spiritual guidance on how to alleviate physical, mental, and spiritual pressure in the hearts and minds of God’s people. Therefore, as we leave this place of worship which belongs to God, we shall never forget what our Bishop Preston W. Williams II has taught us through the wisdom and knowledge which he has received from God. We shall never be the same again, for God has descended into the minds of His people. Therefore, we shall go forth and serve in His name.
*Benjamin Harrison is the Public Relations Director for the 7th District, AME Church
6. NEW AME CHURCH “PLANTED” IN MINNESOTA:
By Charles Hallman, District Reporter
St. Paul-Minneapolis (MN) District
The first AME church established in Minnesota in 90 years will be recommended for admission to the Chicago Annual Conference in October. Lily of the Valley AME Church is the first congregation founded in Minnesota since 1919, when Waxman, Minneapolis was established.
“This is a great history making day,” proclaims St. Paul-Minneapolis District Presiding Elder Rev. Dr. Alphonse Reff, Sr. after the September 9th inaugural worship service at Christus Victor Lutheran Church (ELCA) in Apple Valley, Minn., a Minneapolis suburb.
Since becoming presiding elder, one of Reff’s main goals is “to do the work that the Lord has assigned us to do, which is (to) start up churches.” With many persons of color now living in the Twin Cities suburbs, this area is ripe for starting a church.
“When we were looking for a place to hold services (and) Bible study,” recalls Reff, “(Christus Victor) just had a break in the day before. But they were able to look beyond that and still open their doors to us.”
“Rev. Bill Smith, his wife and another member of an AME church came by our church, looking for a congregation to open their doors,” confirms Christus Victor Pastor Kent Gubrud. “From our very first meeting, with a lot of laughter and smiles, we had an immediate connection. It was a sense that this is what the Holy Spirit wanted us to do.”
Smith and his group began holding weekly Bible study in August, 2006. The small group of 10 then told Reff that they wanted to start a church: “I (then) talked to the Bishop (Phillip Cousin, Fourth Episcopal District) and he told me to go ahead and do it.”
Eventually, twice-monthly services were scheduled – the first was held this past Easter Sunday.
The small group slowly grew, notes Rev. William Smith, who is assisting Reff. “We started out with about seven people,” he adds. Eventually, the numbers began to grow and twice-monthly Sunday services were scheduled and held at Christus Victor.
Now officially named, Reff delivered the new congregation’s inaugural sermon, using Matthew 16: 18-19 as his text.
The presiding elder explained to the worshippers why starting a new church is important. “We have people in our sanctuary who are broken, and the (federal) government can’t put them back together,” states Reff. “Only the church can put them back together.”
Christians must bear some responsibility for those who say they no longer need the church, the preacher continues. “The enemy is running rapid through our country, and we are still asking why we need more churches. We need the church because it is the answer to the world’s problems today.”
Reff closed his sermon: The church must be more than a building. “We need the church to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ. The church still holds the key to the Kingdom. It is still the place for those sick with sin, can come in and be healed. Jesus is our remedy for this sin-sick world.”
Afterwards, Reff and Gubrud jointly celebrated Holy Communion, assisted by the four Twin Cities AME pastors and other ministers.
“It is so much fun worshipping with other Christians from other denominations,” Gubrud believes. “It also affirms us in our common humanity, our common faith and our common need to share in the Gospel.”
About one-half of Apple Valley’s population goes to church, he adds. This means there are plenty of souls needing saving. “There are a lot of people out there who don’t know the Lord,” notes Gubrud.
But Reff says he’s not overly concerned about numbers. “If we say that we are looking for 100 members, that (number) is what we become focused on. I’m looking at the Body of Christ growing.”
The Chicago Annual Conference is scheduled for October 17-21, hosted by St. James, Chicago. Reff says he doesn’t foresee any problems with Lily of the Valley being accepted in the Conference.
“The church is constantly looking for us to do evangelism. When you evangelize, that means people now are coming to the Kingdom to work. That’s the mandate Jesus gave us.”
To his knowledge, Gubrud says this might be the first AME-ELCA partnership in Minnesota. “There have been some discussions in the past, in the 1980s and 90s between national leaders between the AME and the ELCA (churches),” he points out. “Both churches will continue to be blessed by this partnership, and we both (will) grow and reach out in new ways.”
“Lily of the Valley is here to stay,” proclaims Reff.
Finally, the presiding elder says that this must be the beginning. “If other denominations can (plant new churches) and be successful, why can’t the AME Church do the same,” he asks rhetorically. “You can’t put a number on what God can do, or limit God in His work.”
7. BISHOP PRESTON W. WILLIAMS II AND DR. JAMESINA EVANS, AME WMS PRESIDENT AMONG INVITEES TO THE NATIONAL BLACK CHURCH INSTITUTE FOR HIV/AIDS AND OTHER HEALTH DISPARITIES MEETING:
*Sister Saundra S. Lucas
The three-day Institute on HIV/AIDS and other health disparities features praise and worship, workshop sessions, guest preachers, leaders and representatives from the African-American church. Dr. Jamesina Evans (AME) along with Dr. Elnora Hamb (CME); Dr. Barbara L. Shaw (AMEZ) will be presenters.
The goal is to enhance and strengthen the capacity to address HIV/AIDS, as well as other diseases that are, disproportionately, affecting African Americans.
Registration is open for National HIV/AIDS Conference for Black Churches in Hilton Head Island, South Carolina October 23-26, 2007.
Now in its 7th year, The Black Church Institute on HIV/AIDS and Other Health Disparities brings together African American church leaders and representatives from across the country to enhance and strengthen their capacity to address HIV/AIDS, as well as other diseases that are disproportionately affecting African Americans such as cervical cancer and Hepatitis C.
This year’s Black Church Institute will include keynotes and workshop sessions from religious leaders who represent some of the nation’s top historical denominations and institutions.
Some of these speakers include: Rev. Dr. Stephen Thurston, president, National Baptist Convention of America and senior pastor, New Covenant Missionary Baptist Church, Chicago, IL; Rev. Dr. Claude Alexander, senior pastor, University Park Baptist Church, Charlotte, NC; and, Keith Rawlings, medical director, Peabody Health Center, Dallas, TX; In addition, the conference will feature an unprecedented session led by the Rev. Dr. James A. Forbes, Jr., senior pastor emeritus of The Riverside Church in The City of New York along with his brothers Drs. David C. Forbes and Ronald O. Forbes and his sister Anna Forbes Towns. This renowned family will host a plenary on A Comprehensive, Spiritual Approach to Effectively Addressing HIV/AIDS.
Other conference speakers for this year’s Black Church Institute on HIV/AIDS and Other Health Disparities include: Bishop Michael V. Kelsey, Sr., New Samaritan Baptist Church, Washington, DC; George Roberts, PhD, Centers for Disease and Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA; Rev. Dr. Renita Weems, Teacher of Spiritual Insight; and Bev Smith, host, “The Bev Smith Show,” American Urban Radio. Other invited guests are Bishop Preston Warren Williams, 7th Episcopal District and Dr. Jamesina Evans, Connectional WMS President.
Registration
A registration fee of $295.00 ($325 after October 15, 2007) covers all conference materials, activities and meals. Information on overnight accommodations at The Hilton Oceanfront Resort is available in the conference brochure. Individuals interested in attending The Black Church Institute for HIV/AIDS and Other Health Disparities may contact The Balm in Gilead at 1-888-225-6243 for a conference brochure or download brochure at www.balmingilead.org
*Sister Saundra S. Lucas is the WMS National Health Director
8. TEENAGE GIRLS COMMITS TO ABSTINENCE UNTIL MARRIAGE - DAUGHTERS OF DESTINY CAMPAIGN:
San Diego, CA – On September 15, 2007, sixteen teenage girls representing the 2007 “Daughters of Destiny” Campaign of Bethel Memorial A.M.E. Church of San Diego, under the leadership of Rev. Anthony L. Hughes, participated in a Dedication Service that demonstrated their commitment to Christian chastity through abstinence until marriage. The ceremony was held at Christ Our Redeemer AME Church in Irvine, California. The guest speaker at this ceremony was Dr. Thema Bryant who advised the Daughters to have faith in their decisions, stay focused on their life goals, and to stay fired up as it relates to their relationship with God. All Daughters were presented with silver rings engraved with “True Love Waits” at the end of the Dedication Service.
The Daughters of Destiny Campaign is a Biblically-based mentorship program for young girls ages 13 to 19. Each Daughter is paired with one mentor who stays in constant contact with their Daughter, providing mental and spiritual support throughout the program. The mentors offered additional talents and resources to the program, and included a medical doctor, lawyer, psychologist, business owners, health executives and religious leaders. The coordinators and advisors for Bethel’s Daughters of Destiny are Akanke Ramsey, Local Coordinator; Sandra Williams, Local Co-Coordinator; Veronica Parris, YPD Director; Candace Nash Everett, WMS President; Rev. Dorisalene Hughes, First Lady; and Eula Johnson, Advisor.
The Daughters participated in classroom discussions related to “Building and Maintaining Self-Esteem and Self Worth, Values and Goals,” “Awakening Love Before It's Time,” and “Why Abstinence?” Social activities included a barbeque, an overnight sleepover, and a pool party. These social activities were the backgrounds for discussions related to “Promoting Healthy Relationships With Males and Females as Friends,” Seeking and Receiving Deliverance and Healing of the Past Hurts and Disappointments,” and “Speaking Purpose Into Their Lives.” The Daughters presented Prayer Boards that highlighted their values and goals. They also presented their Hope Chests where, among other precious items, they will store Biblical references, prayers and affirmations.
Each Daughter is assured that God has a special plan for their life and no matter what decisions they may have made in the past, they can begin anew. For more information related to Bethel Memorial A.M.E. Daughters of Destiny Campaign, please visit our web site at www.blackdiego.com/daughters or contact the Program Coordinator, Akanke Ramsey at (619) 232-0510.
History of Daughters of Destiny
Daughters of Destiny is a Fifth Episcopal District ministry implemented by Rev. Dr. Cecelia Williams-Bryant, Fifth District Episcopal Supervisor that focuses on three areas: (1) spiritual growth through relationship with Christ; (2) self-esteem; and (3) self-development. The ministry has curriculums that address all three of these areas. Each daughter goes through each phase of the curriculum and then participates in a graduation ceremony with other youth throughout the Fifth District. In addition to the phases, we have informal discussion sessions on topics that are generally chose by the daughters which relate to issues that they face today. We also partner with our Sons of Success (SOS) and Young Peoples Department (YPD) ministries in attempting to have complete, well-rounded interaction with the daughters.
Submitted by Contact: Sandra Price
Phone 619-297-2727
Fax 619-297-2770
Sandra@asappub.com
9. BISHOP ADAM J. RICHARDSON PREACHED DOWN UNDER:
The right Reverend Adam Jefferson Richardson was invited to preach at one of the local churches on the Sunday during the World Methodist Council Executive Committee meeting in Sydney, Australia. He preached a dynamic sermon at the Concord Uniting Church, a medium-sized, multicultural congregation.
The Rev. Yangrae Sun is the pastor of Concord Uniting Church in Sydney.
Submitted by Monique Richardson, Executive Aide to Bishop Richardson
10. URGENT MESSAGE CONNECTIONAL HEALTH COMMISSION AME CHURCH REGARDING BODY & SOUL:
The AME Church Connectional Health Commission is in the midst of closing out its partnership with the National Cancer Institute. As part of this process, we are in need of information from individual churches on their health ministry program by October 1, 2007. We need a pastor, administrator or other knowledgeable person within all churches across the connection to complete the church survey found at www.amechealth.org. If you have received this notice via email please click the following link to complete the survey:
http://www.surveymonkey.com/s.aspx?sm=19E58PhTWP9hl62_2f09h_2b6g_3d_3d
It is important for every church to complete this survey, regardless of the lack or presence of a health ministry, so that the CHC may determine the presence of any Body & Soul program component. There are several incentives- the first prize is a computer. Again, if you have any questions or concerns please contact Christine Smith at bodyandsoulforchurces@yahoo.com or 404-805-3128. You may also contact Dr. Burnett at mburnett@amechealth.org or 770-328-2002.
Christine Smith, MPH
Body & Soul Coordinator
Connectional Health Commission
AME Church
1-877-697-1994
csmith@amec.org
bodyandsoulforchurches@yahoo.com
www.amechealth.org
11. SUMMER COLLEGIUM AT VIRGINIA SEMINARY:
Greetings from Virginia Theological Seminary,
About a month ago I sent you a letter and some brochures for the Summer Collegium: A Project in Support of Small Congregations. This is a project funded by the Lilly Endowment as a way to appreciate the clergy, spouses and congregations in small membership churches, and offer them support, renewal and new energy.
Some things about the Collegium:
- Clergy participants spend nine days in Alexandria. Spouses/partners are invited to attend the first five days. All participants stay in a fine hotel for those first five days, and then clergy move to campus for the remainder of the conference.
- This project is ecumenical - open to all Christian clergy in churches in North America.
* Only 25 clergy are selected each year. We evaluate all applications postmarked by the December 15, 2007, deadline and choose 25 to attend.
* All expenses, from travel to books to pulpit supply, when they're gone, to housing and meals, are all paid for by the grant. There are NO expenses to those accepted.
As I said above, applications must be postmarked by December 15. If you haven't distributed those brochures yet, please do so soon. December creeps up quickly, and it's a rather extensive application. Application materials may be obtained from our website, www.vts.edu/education/collegium, or I will mail them to clergy who are interested.
If you'd like more brochures I'm happy to send those. Just let me know.
Thank you for your help in spreading the word about the Summer Collegium. We are entering our third summer for this 5-year program, and response so far has been terrific. Those who have attended in the past have found it to be helpful and encouraging to be in a group of all small-church folks.
Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any questions about the Summer Collegium.
Marilyn Johns, D. Min.
Project Manager, The Summer Collegium
Virginia Theological Seminary
3737 Seminary Road
Alexandria, Virginia 22304
703-461-1760
12. AN OPEN LETTER TO PRIMARILY CLERGY AND LAITY OF THE AFRICAN METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH:
As a former presiding elder and a current pastor in the African Methodist Episcopal Church, we are concerned about the ability of pastors and laity to obtain quality health insurance. This issue is a matter of concern not only for our Church, but it is also the focus of a national debate. In an effort to make a health care benefits package available to A.M.E. clergy and laity who do not have health insurance, we are writing this letter so that you may take advantage of a new offering in corporate America that provides guaranteed coverage without regards to pre-existing medical conditions.
Recently YTB International, Inc., a network marketing firm that focuses on providing vacations and on-line travel services, held its annual convention in St. Louis, MO. The chairman of the board, Mr. J. Lloyd Tomer, announced that YTB would be offering a health benefits package to anyone who becomes a referring travel agent during an open enrollment period from October 3, 2007 through November 2, 2007. Some of the plan highlights are as follows:
• Guaranteed coverage regardless of pre-existing medical conditions.
• No medical questions will be asked.
• Coverage can not be denied during the open enrollment period.
• Prescription drug program.
• Preventive care benefits.
• Emergency room & hospital benefits.
• And more...
To take advantage of this opportunity, you must enroll in the company as a referring travel agent (RTA). Enrollment requires a one-time expense of slightly less than $500.00. As an RTA you will have an on-line travel web site, and you are your own boss. You can work as little as you want, as much as you want or not at all. As long as you make the monthly payments of $49.95 for web site maintenance and the monthly cost for the insurance, you are covered by the health care benefits package.
If you wish to obtain more information or a written description of the benefits package, please call toll free 1 (866) 716-8602 or send an email to athevans@aol.com. Be prepared to provide your name, primary phone number and email address. Due to the volume of anticipated responses, email may be the best alternative; but feel free to call if email is not available.
If you do not have medical coverage, do not wait any longer. The time to act is now.
Yours in service to the Church,
Rev. George T. Sims, Jr.
Presiding Elder Emeritus
West Philadelphia District
Philadelphia Annual Conference
Rev. Arnold T. Evans
Pastor
Campbell A.M.E. Church
1657 Kinsey Street
Philadelphia, PA 19124
13. EPISCOPAL FAMILY BEREAVEMENT:
We regret to inform you of the passing of Mrs. Mary Elizabeth Robinson on Thursday, September 20, 2007. She was the wife of Brother Charles Robinson and the stepmother of Anthony Robinson. She was a faithful and committed member at Empowerment Temple AME Church in Baltimore, Maryland where her great-nephew, Dr. Jamal H. Bryant is the pastor. She was a long time member of Bethel AME Church.
The funeral has been conducted. Her nephew, Bishop John R. Bryant delivered the eulogy.
Expressions of Sympathy and Condolences may be sent to:
Mr. Charles Robinson
3513 Dennlyn Road
Baltimore, MD 21215
Phone: 410-367-8656
14. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
We regret to inform you of the passing of Deacon Dewey Wells, Sr. on Friday, September 14, 2007. He was the uncle of Rev. Robert C. Wade, Presiding Elder of the Camden/Trenton District of the New Jersey Annual Conference. The following information has been provided regarding funeral arrangements.
The funeral has been held.
Expressions of Sympathy may be sent to:
Reverend Dr. & Mrs. Robert C. Wade & Family
c/o Harrell's Funeral Home
400 East Cherry Street
Douglas, Georgia 31533
Phone: 912-384-2251
Fax: 912-393-1126
15. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
It is with regret that we announce the homegoing of Bro. Edward Pharr, husband of Rev. Brenda Pharr-Pastor at Liberty Chapel A.M.E. Church-Leander, Texas (Northwest Texas Conference-Paul Quinn College District),10th Episcopal District.
The funeral has been held.
Condolences may be sent to:
Rev. Brenda Pharr & Family
1311 Herndon Drive
Killeen, Texas 76543
Ph: (254) 699-4429
16. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
Mrs. Laura Dixon, the mother of Dr. Bobbie Jean Fann, passed away on Friday, September 14th, 2007 and was funeralized on Tuesday, September 18, 2007 at the St. James Baptist Church in Adrian, Georgia. Dr. Bobbie Jean Fann is the Pastor of The New Liberty Hill A. M. E. Church in Thomson, Georgia. New liberty Hill is situated in the Augusta Conference and the Augusta - Athens District of the Sixth Episcopal District.
Condolence may be sent to:
Dr. Bobbie Jean Fann
Post Office Box 1655
Thomson, Georgia 30824
Phone: 706-597-7984
17. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
We regret to inform you of the passing of Sister Beatrice Bessillieu. Sister Bessillieu was the wife of the deceased Presiding Elder Henry Thurston Bessillieu. She served as President of the Delaware Conference WMS for 9 years. She was also active in the Lay Organization, Church School and served as a steward of her church, Macedonia AME in Seaford, Delaware. Sister Bessillieu was 96 years old. The following information has been provided regarding funeral arrangements.
The funeral has been held.
Expressions of Sympathy may be sent to:
Mrs. Katherine Ross
c/o Macedonia AMEC
431 North Street
Seaford, DE 19973
18. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
Mr. Lee A. Bright, Jr., the oldest brother of Mrs. Mary Darby and the brother-in-law of Reverend Dr. Joseph Darby, pastor of Morris Brown AME Church, Charleston, SC, passed this morning.
Funeral Services for Mr. Lee A. Bright, Jr.:
Friday, September 28, 2007
11:00 a.m.
Mount Zion AME Church
3284 Coolers Dairy Road
Round O, SC
Phone 843-538-7457
Rev. Leroy Russell, Pastor
Services entrusted to:
Ada's Home for Funerals
264 Bell's Highway
Walterboro, SC
Phone 843-549-6800
Expressions of sympathy may be sent to:
Rev. and Mrs. Joseph A. Darby
1347 Coosaw Dr.
Charleston, SC 29407
843-766-4893
Email: josephdarby@bellsouth.net
19. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
We regretfully share the Homegoing of Mr. Mark Anthony Smith (age 47) of Louisville, Kentucky on Monday, September 24, 2007. Mr. Smith is the son of the Reverend Geoffrey S. Ellis, pastor of Embry Chapel African Methodist Episcopal Church of Elizabethtown, Kentucky and his wife, the Reverend Diedre Ellis, Associate Minister of Embry Chapel.
The Visitation will be Sunday, September 30, 2007 from 6-9, and the Celebration Worship will be Monday, October 1, 2007 at A. D. Porter and Sons Funeral Home, 1300 West Chestnut St., Louisville, KY 40203, phone (502)587-9678.
The Reverends Ellis can be contacted at 3802 Garfield Avenue, Louisville, KY 40212; phone (502)775-5829; email ellisg4021@bellsouth.net.
Submitted by Rev. Kenneth J. Golphin, 13th District Recording Secretary
20. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICES AND CONGRATULATORY ANNOUNCEMENTS PROVIDED BY:
The Clergy Family Information Center
Bishop Carolyn Tyler Guidry, Chair
Commission on Social Action
Ora L. Easley, Administrator
AMEC Clergy Family Information Center
E-mail: Amespouses1@bellsouth.net
Phone: (615) 837-9736
Voice Mail: (615) 833-6936
Fax: (615) 833-3781
Cell: (615) 403-7751
21. 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.
