The Reverend Dr. Johnny Barbour, Jr., Publisher
The Reverend Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III, the 20th Editor, The Christian Recorder – Since 1852
--Reminders—
- Pentecost Sunday: June 12, 2011
- Pentecost Sunday: June 12, 2011
1. EDITORIAL – MISTAKES MADE BY CHURCH MEMBERS:
Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III
The 20th Editor of The Christian Recorder
Among my earliest memories about bishops were conversations my grandmother, Eva M. Price and some of the members at Bethel AME Church in Ardmore, Pennsylvania had in the early fifties about the pastoral appointments made by Bishop Decatur Ward Nichols who was the Presiding prelate of the First Episcopal District. I am sure that all of them, Bishop Nichols, clergy and laity, to include Momma have “gone on to glory” so I am comfortable mentioning names.
Those conversations went on for a long time and it wasn’t just about the Mainline, but it was about a number of pastoral appointments made by Bishop Nichols. I was never sure about the particulars of the conversations because when the grown folks were talking, we, young people, were not allowed to listen, and if it seemed to adults that we were eavesdropping, we were quickly told to leave the area because they were discussing “grown folks’ talk.”
I can remember visiting other relatives’ homes that were not AMEs and heard snippets of conversations about something that was going on in their churches. Come to think of it, there were a lot of whispered and lower-volume conversations about what was going on in the local churches in the area.
Mistakes are made
Church members make mistakes and even “good and faithful” church members make mistakes. Humans make mistakes.
One of the first mistakes made by church members is talking negatively about the church. When I was growing up, the children were sent out of the room; even when I became a teenager, I was sent out of the room.
Some adults today will discuss church business around children, and even to people who are not members. Several years ago, a relative confided that upon moving to a new area, she visited an AME Church, was introduced as a visitor; and before she could get to her car one on the older members of the congregation came and engaged her in conversation and said, “We are having serious problems here; our preacher is hard-headed and won’t listen to nobody.” My relative said that she didn’t even think for a minute that she was going to join that church. Sometimes, our own members are our churches’ worst enemies.
Another mistake made by some church members is that they have no stake in the ministry of the local church and are content to believe that the pastor is being paid to do the work of ministry. They do not feel guilty about their non-participation because they believe that the religious program belongs to the solely to the pastor. Members who make the mistake of not participating in ministry will not visit the sick or send sick members a card because they think that’s the pastor’s job. In my first church, I called upon an officer to pray, and he said that he didn’t know how to pray and nervously and half jokingly said, “We are paying you to pray.”
Another major mistake of many members is the failure of consistent and disciplined giving of their tithes and offerings. A lot of members do not give their financial offering when they miss Sunday worship services. I think that a lot of people use their absence as an excuse not to give. They operate under the notion, “If they don’t go, they don’t owe.” They function under the movie or sports-event mentality, “If you don’t go to see the movie or you don’t go to the sports event, you don’t pay for what you haven’t seen.” They bring that mentality to the church. They function as “spectators and customers” and not as “disciples or committed members.”
Another common mistake of church members is a sporadic attendance at worship services. I used to have an inward complaint, “If we could just get all the people all of the time, every Sunday; we would have a great church attendance.” So many members are not committed in their attendance, and usually those kinds of people are not committed to anything in their lives.
Unfortunately, some people lack discipline in church attendance. They refuse to attend church 52 Sundays a year. Any excuse will do to miss church; rain, snow, too hot, too nice of a day to sit in church, an upset stomach, too tired, a good movie is coming on television, a televangelist promises a life-changing sermon, a football game is coming on, a basketball game is coming on, a baseball game is coming on, a soccer match is coming on, the choir that I don’t like is singing, I heard the pastor is out of town this Sunday and we are having a guest preacher, the church is too hot, the church is too cold, can’t go to church this morning because I plan to go to the afternoon service, too tired, feel good and don’t want to risk feeling bad by hearing some negativity at church, planning a big meal and need to stay home to prepare dinner, just don’t feel like going to church today, nobody will miss me, don’t feel good, have a headache, allergies are acting up, arthritis is acting up, sugar levels don’t feel right, feel light-headed, must be my “pressure” and a myriad of other excuses.
Another mistake is one of being lazy. Some members just won’t participate in anything. Some people won’t serve in any organization, won’t be regular in their stewardship and attend church on an irregular basis. I call it laziness.
Some people are too lazy to attend Sunday School, which is a low-risk activity. Attending Sunday School is not like singing in the choir or being an usher, which requires attendance at weeknight practices. That is, if the choir rehearses and the usher board has meetings.
There are a few members, and we hope that it’s only a few, who just don’t like authority figures; and preachers are viewed as authority figures and some people just don’t like preachers. There are several ways to identify members who don’t like preachers.
First, there are members who talk negatively about all of the preachers they have had as pastors, in other words, they don’t have a good thing to say about any of them. Another way to identify people who have issues with authority figures are members who speak affectionately about all of the past pastors, nothing negative; but have nothing good to say about the present pastor. They are always anxiously looking ahead for the next pastor who they reckon will be a messiah-type figure. They are never satisfied with the present, but are always looking to the past or to the future.
Some church members make the mistake of carrying over the fight they had with the previous pastor to the new pastor; and some members carry church fights from one pastor to the next for years and years.
Another mistake of church members is their failure to encourage and be a friend to the pastor. I am not just speaking about a “nice sermon, pastor” friend, but a real friend. If the pastor likes to play golf, be a golfing friend, in other words, get to know the pastor. I know it might be hard, in some cases, because some pastors make the mistake of not wanting to develop close relationships with members. All of us, clergy and laity, need to understand that we are all human and being clergy doesn’t make us holier than the laity.
Another mistake church members make is not apologizing when they realize that they have made a mistake or misspoke on an issue. Some members will never admit to making a mistake; and of course some preachers function the same way.
And the biggest mistake that church members make is that they leave God completely out of their lives and function as if there is not a God. Their behavior at church is the same as their behavior in a secular environment. For them, church is not holy and they do not treat anything in the church as holy.
And, the result is that people are correct when they say “The Church is no different than the world” and, those of us who love the AME Church don’t want that to be the case,
2. READER RESPONSE TO EDITORIAL AND OTHER ISSUES:
- To the Editor
RE: The Christian Education News Break: Dr. Daryl Ingram is asking all Church School Teachers and religious Educators to read the article …
This is wonderful!! It is so disheartening....and boring....to be in a class with an unprepared teacher. I think some teachers tend to go off on tangents because they are unprepared. A big “Thank You” to Dr. Daryl Ingram for sharing this information with us. I can only hope that all of us will adhere to it...regardless of the setting. I know I will.
Ora Washington
An AME working and living in Okinawa, Japan
3. MESSAGE FROM BISHOP A.J. RICHARDSON, JR. HONORARY CHAIR OF CHALLENGE VII, 90-DAY READING OF THE BIBLE FROM COVER TO COVER – MAY 17, 2011:
I pray that all of my fellow travelers are keeping the pace. The Word is still as relevant as it was when it was written, and as meaningful as when we were first exposed to it.
I have completed my navigation through 150 Psalms and into 17 chapters of Proverbs; I read in awe.
I could not help but single out a verse from Proverbs in light of recent events and the plethora of comments that followed: "When it goes well with the righteous, the city rejoices; And when the wicked perish, there is jubilation." Proverbs 11:10 (NKJV)
I do not personally support "dancing in the street" at the death of an enemy, I do suppose that it requires a double portion of the spirit of Christ to think and feel otherwise.
Bishop Adam J. Richardson,
Presiding Prelate, 2nd Episcopal District
4. TWENTY-ONE STUDENTS GRADUATE FROM TURNER THEOLOGICAL SEMINARY:
The 2011 Commencement Exercises for The Interdenominational Theological Center (Atlanta, GA), Turner Theological Seminary (AME) had 20 persons receiving the Master of Divinity and one person receiving the Master of Arts in Christian Education, the largest graduating class of all of the constituent seminaries of the ITC for this academic year.
The graduates are listed below. Please publish them in the Christian Recorder.
Gwendolyn A. Badie, M.Div. (6th District)
Brian K. Blackwell, M.Div. (9th District)
Demetria C. Cheeves, M.Div. (6th District)
Regina Y. Dotson-Hibbert, M.Div. (6th District)
Charles W. Dumas, Jr., M.Div. (6th District)
Veronica L. Giddens, M.Div. (1st District)
Samia P. Giddings, M.Div. (6th District)
Carolyn Habersham, M.Div. (8th District)
Jai S. Haithco, Sr., MACE (6th District)
Orna J. Husbands, M.Div. (6th District)
Olivia D. Martin, M.Div. and MACE (6th District)
Kevin T. Moore, M.Div. (6th District)
Esther D. King Powers, M.Div. (6th District)
Ezekiel Powers, M.Div. (6th District)
Christina D. Reed, M.Div. (2nd District)
William Jermaine Richardson, M.Div. (9th District)
Sharon D. Smith, M.Div. (11th District)
LeSean Tarkington, M.Div. (5th District)
William E. Thomas, Jr., M.Div. (11th District)
Michella P. Williams, M.Div. (6th District)
The 52nd Commencement Exercises for the Interdenominational Theological Center were held Saturday, 7 May 2011 at 8:30 am in the Martin Luther King, Jr., International Chapel on the campus of Morehouse College. The Interdenominational Theological Center (ITC) is a consortium of denominational seminaries whose mission is to educate Christian leaders for ministry and service in the Church and the global community. The ITC educates and nurtures women and men who commit to and practice a liberating and transforming spirituality; academic discipline; religious, gender, and cultural diversity; and justice and peace.
The Reverend Dr. Ronald E. Peters is the president of the ITC.
About Turner Theological Seminary
The Turner Theological Seminary is a constituent denominational seminary of the Interdenominational Theological Center (the ITC), whose mission is to prepare men and women for ministry in the African Methodist Episcopal Church tradition and the global community. Through the ITC, the goal of Turner Theological Seminary is to educate and nurture men and women to engage in the practice of a liberating and transforming spirituality; through the exercise of academic discipline, religious, gender and cultural diversity; and justice and peace. The Reverend Dr. John F. Green (ITC ‘84) is the president-dean of Turner Theological Seminary.
**Submitted by the Rev. Wm. Jermaine Richardson (ITC Class of 2011) is the pastor of St Paul AME Church of Wylam in Birmingham, Alabama
5. LARGE NUMBER OF MEMPHIS AREA AME CLERGY GRADUATE FROM MEMPHIS THEOLOGICAL SEMINARY:
The following pastors will receive graduate honors from Memphis Theological Seminary in Memphis, Tennessee this Saturday, May 14, 2011 at 1:00 p.m. The commencement exercises will be held at Lindenwood Christian Church in Memphis.
The graduates are to be commended and congratulated for their commitment to their pastoral preparation.
- The Rev. Agnes Henderson, Mt. Olive AME Church, Millington, Tennessee - MDiv
- The Rev. Quinten Smith, Greater Payne Chapel AME Church, Memphis, Tennessee - MDiv
- The Rev. Denise Richardson, Associate, Wrights Chapel AME Church, Arlington, Tennessee - MDiv
- The Rev. Darrell Scott, Wilson Chapel AME Church, Memphis, Tennessee - MAR
- The Rev. Verlie Horton, Christ Tabernacle AME Church, Memphis, Tennessee - DMin
About Memphis Theological Seminary
Memphis Theological Seminary, an ecumenical Protestant seminary serving from the Mid-South region, is committed to providing theological education for church leaders throughout the world. Besides the traditional Master of Divinity (MDiv), Memphis Theological Seminary also grants Master of Arts in Religion (MAR), and Doctor of Ministry (DMin) degrees as well as administering the Cumberland Presbyterian denomination's Program of Alternate Studies or PAS. The seminary is fully accredited by the Association of Theological Schools in the United States and Canada (ATS) and the Commission on Colleges and Schools of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS) to award the above-mentioned degrees. The seminary is approved by the University Senate of the United Methodist Church to educate United Methodist theological students.
**Submitted by the Rev. I. W. Booker, The AME Connection, "Connecting ministry One Saint at a time."
6. THIRD EPISCOPAL DISTRICT OF THE AME CHURCH PRESENTS $100,000.00 TO WILBERFORCE UNIVERSITY:
The Right Reverend C. Garnett Henning, Sr ’56, Wilberforce University Chancellor and Presiding Bishop of the Third Episcopal District of the African Methodist Church, presented $100,000.00 to Wilberforce University at the May 7, 2011 Commencement exercises for 136 graduates and an overflow audience of 2,500 family and friends.
The Third Episcopal District’s generous gift supports students who receive Wilberforce’s Institutional Scholarships and is the latest in the District’s long relationship to Wilberforce, the flagship University of the AME Church.
The Third Episcopal District is comprised of 200 AME churches serving approximately 35,000 members throughout Ohio, West Virginia and Western Pennsylvania.
J. Phillip Holloman, President and COO of Cintas Corporation gave the Commencement Address and received the Honorary Doctor of Humane Letters. Earlier in the day, the Rev. Brenda Girton-Mitchell, Director of the Obama Administration’s Center For Faith-Based and Neighborhood Partnerships, gave the Baccalaureate Address.
7. HISTORIC ST. JAMES AME CHURCH, NEW ORLEANS USED AS A LOCATION TO FILM THE MOVIE, "21 JUMP STREET”:
Historic St. James AME Church, New Orleans is being used as a location to film the movie, "21 Jump Street.” The Rev. Otto Duncan and the congregation are pleased that beautiful Historic St. James AME Church was chosen as a film location for the movie.
Attached are photos of Pastor Otto Duncan and church staff members, Mrs. Tim Wilson and Shafter Parker posing with actor Ice Cube, who is starring in the movie. He and his wife took time to speak with the pastor Duncan and to the members of the congregation.
About Historic St. James AME Church
Historic St. James AME Church in New Orleans, Louisiana was founded in 1844. The building was completed in 1851. Historic St. James AME Church is the oldest AME Church in the deep south. The church is presently in the midst of a major Restoration Project.
The Rev. Otto Duncan said, “We are briefly on hold due to having our site utilized in a movie production. We will resume as soon as that work is completed. Currently, we are focused the restoration of our Gothic windows.”
The Rev. Otto W. Duncan, Jr. is the pastor of Historic St. James AME Church located at 222 N. Roman Street in New Orleans, Louisiana
8. THE TRAVAILS OF BEING A PASTOR’S SPOUSE AND FIRST FAMILY:
The Rev. Janice Rhodes Casey
Being the first lady of the congregation and the children of the pastor carry special weights that only spouses and PK’S themselves understand. Are we special people that God has hand-picked for the task? Maybe! I can’t say yeah or nay, but as someone who has the dual position of being an ordained minister in her own right and first lady, I can describe the role that the Lord has placed upon my life and speak for my children, as they have not hidden their feelings under a bush about this whole affair.
Now into our eighth year of ministry and our third charge, my husband and I and our children have gained somewhat of a reputation as a family affair. I don’t accept a charge or a salary, but I work alongside my husband in whatever charge he is appointed. I lead from the second chair, which means that he is the pastor and makes all of the decisions. I support him, preach the Word, minister to the people and serve as first lady. I don’t try to push an agenda, but I do lots of training in the Word of God and study of the Bible wherever I go.
As for our children, they were surprisingly supportive of our ministry from the start. “You might as well preach to everybody else, you preach enough to us,” was their answer to our big news about going into the ministry. I suspect God intervened there just a bit because we were prepared to back off from ministry had they bucked against it. But with nodded heads, they all gave their approval and they have been right there with us, worshipping and serving in each charge we have been assigned.
So far this all sounds like a story made in heaven—like all have been blissful and easy. Well it has not been.
Being in ministry from the second chair and being the first lady of the church often means awkward decisions. For example, I find myself deciding between wearing the traditional dress black or dressing in more wifely attire, complete with heels and a big hat. It means the church members are often confused about what to call me. They range from calling me "Sister Casey, Reverend Casey, Rev. Janice, to First Lady." It means that I am made to bear the weight of unpopular decisions that my husband may make or worst, that I am sought out and befriended in order to influence my husband. It means that I am constantly being compared to the last pastor’s wife and it seems that they hated her and love me when I do something they like, but loved her ever so dearly if I dare do something they don’t like.
Being a pastor’s kid (PK) often means that people expect that child to love going to church. Well my children are like most children. They don’t mind going sometime, but they don’t like going all the time and District Conferences, Annual Conferences, Planning Meetings, General Conferences, etc. don’t hold any special significance to them. It’s just more church! So when they want to do something else instead, sometimes I feel the need to oblige them and take them on an outing. Church folk didn’t seem to understand why I decided to take my daughter Jennifer to the mall shopping instead of going to the prayer breakfast or why our sons Steven and Jordan wanted to watch the basketball playoffs rather than usher at the youth revival. After all, they know the Lord, right?
And then there are the other denominations that don’t care for women preachers. I remember the time my father in the ministry asked me to preach the afternoon sermon for him at the Baptist church next door. It was the pastor’s anniversary. I was honored to do it for him, since he was much loved by all in the community. However, I was unprepared for the whispers and frowns and unwelcoming spirit that I got from the Baptist brothers in the ministry. Not surprisingly, I have never been asked for a return visit.
Along with balancing ministry and family life, I have a full-time job and career. I’m a teacher and media specialist. There are people on my job who have no idea that I am a minister. I’m not keeping it a secret, but it just hasn’t come up. At times, when people have found out, they have admitted that they felt an undercurrent of “something different.” I carry my faith and belief into the workplace, but I’m not spouting scripture at every turn and trying to “save” people when I should be giving an honest day’s work. Also, I have to be wise with my time off and sometimes I can’t take off to attend to the ministry. However, my job allows me the freedom to minister without pay.
But all things considered, I must quote Paul. “Yea doubtless, and I count all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord…” Philippians 3:8a
This ministerial journey is challenging, and I, along with my husband and children, continue to make many mistakes along the way. We have talked too much and hurt someone’s feelings or too little and failed to encourage someone along the way. We have done things we should not have, like experimented with smoking on the church grounds (one of our sons, we found out, to our dismay) or not done things we should have, like communed a sick person because their house was so unpleasant. We have kept company with sinners and befriended outcasts, but preferred the company of Bishops and famous gospel singers. We have given too much of our own money and suffered financial difficulties. And at times we have not tithed faithfully and hurt the church.
However, God does not require us to be perfect people, only sincere and available to Him. I wish I could say that being a Pastor’s spouse is the best thing since apple pie. It’s not. But I can say, I would not change my life for any other, nor do I believe that my children or husband would either. God is good—all the time!
*The Rev. Janice Casey is a part of the ministerial staff and First Lady at St. Paul AME Church in Kingsland, Georgia
9. CHRISTIAN EDUCATION DIRECTOR REQUESTS ALL RELIGIOUS EDUCATORS TO READ ARTICLE:
Dr. Daryl Ingram is asking all Church School Teachers and religious Educators to read the article that appears below.
The 12 Keys of Effective Teaching is a Christian Education article that was published in a recent issue of The Journal of Christian Education.
12 Keys of Effective Teaching
By Paula Marolewski
While there are many forms of teaching in the Christian education arena, there are a few basic tenets that are applicable across the board. We will focus on these tenets as they apply to "formal" teaching (classroom, discussion, lecture, discipling relationships), but they are just as important in informal settings.
1) Set goals. This is probably the biggest omission for teachers. We know and want to communicate a lot of "stuff," but we haven't clearly defined our goal and purpose. Without a goal and purpose, our teaching wanders and we won't see the fulfillment the Lord intends in our ministries.
It may be helpful to choose a verse or passage to be a guide for your teaching. Then, as you prepare a lesson or a series of lessons, ask yourself questions to see if you are meeting your goals. For example, if we were looking at Ephesians 4:11-16, we might ask ourselves:
• How am I equipping people to serve through this lesson?
• How am I building up the body of Christ?
• How am I succeeding as an example of Christ-like character? How am I failing?
• What doctrines am I teaching on? How can I better communicate them?
• What practical application will my hearers draw from my lesson?
• What sin or error am I confronting?
• What spiritual disciplines am I promoting? Am I demonstrating them in my own life?
• How am I encouraging intimacy with God?
• How am I exhorting people to love?
• Is Christ the beginning, ending, and focus of my teaching?
Specific lessons and series of lessons will, of course, have additional specific goals particular to the topic at hand. These goals should be clearly delineated before teaching begins, and regular evaluations should take place to be certain that goals are being achieved.
2) Put forth effort. Give your preparation - and your delivery - the best of yourself. Don't expect fulfillment in ministry if you consistently "cobble something together" at the last minute, are rushing around the house to get out on time, and are tired when it's time to teach. You and your hearers will get the most out of your teaching if you put forth solid, concentrated effort into preparation time, and are rested and enthusiastic when it's time to speak.
3) Be orderly. Build a lesson as you would build a house. Lay a foundation and develop your points thoroughly and completely to a conclusion. You want your hearers to walk away with several things: facts, understanding, and application.
4) Avoid tangents. Whether they come from you or from one of your hearers, nip tangents in the bud (unless there is a distinct reason and the Spirit's leading to follow them and expand on them). Lessons should be tight, allowing no room for wandering or drifting. You will not accomplish your goals unless you stay focused.
5) Combine orthodoxy and orthopraxy. Each lesson should contain both right teaching (orthodoxy) and instruction on right practice (orthopraxy). Doctrine in a vacuum will not be remembered or be seen as applicable. Guidance on right practice will not become ingrained unless the reasons and doctrines behind it are understood. Instruction on the Word of God and the walk of God should go hand-in-hand whenever we teach.
6) Make it practical. Every lesson should be a "rubber-meets-the-road" lesson. If it's not practical, it won't be remembered. If it doesn't apply to life today, to my life today, then it's a waste of my time. Draw lessons from life today, and show how to apply lessons to life today.
7) Be dynamic. Whatever your teaching style, make it dynamic. Dynamic comes from the Greek word "dunamis," or power. Whether you lecture or lead discussions, whether you enjoy acting your lessons in front of a crowd or prefer quiet times in a circle, your teaching style should be power-filled through the Spirit. Be creative. Be compelling. Be challenging. Be excited. Be intense. However you speak, grab your hearers and hold them - only then will they hear what you're saying.
8) Encourage interaction. In almost all cases, people will learn more from a class that they participate in. Ask questions. Encourage responses and discussion. Be sure people are understanding what you're saying. Welcome input. Even a class that is predominantly lecture has room for learner participation. Frequently a question and answer time will serve to bring home the doctrines and lessons taught.
9) Repeat and review. You only remember a fraction of what you hear - so be sure your listeners hear what's most important many times. Review the key points of past lessons. Review points made earlier in a given lesson. Repeat truth until it becomes ingrained in your hearers.
10) Handouts and homework. Don't be afraid to ask your listeners to put forth effort on their own part. Give handouts with fill-ins and room for notes at each class - it encourages people to write down key points, therefore aiding the learning process (the more senses you engage in learning, the better you will remember). Give homework. Ask people to read and think and prepare for the next class, or to follow up on the one just given. Remind your hearers that Christian education does not happen for one hour on a Sunday - it must be a part of daily life.
11) Expect excellence. People will rise to your expectations of them. Never patronize or act condescendingly toward people. Don't give shallow or fluff-filled lessons. Dig deep into the truth and your listeners will fall in love with the truth, too.
12) Pray. Pray for yourself and your hearers. Pray for your preparation time, your sanctification, and your delivery. Pray for their attentiveness, understanding, and commitment to walk with the Lord. Pray for discernment, insight, and wisdom. Your ministry will only succeed if it is bathed in and founded on prayer.
10. RECAP OF 2011 AUGUSTA GEORGIA AND MACON CONFERENCE WIM SERVICES:
The Rev. Velma Grant
The Augusta Georgia Conference and the Macon Georgia Conference Women in Ministry are moving forward and are excited about the work of Women in Ministry. Below is a recap of both of the services coordinated by WIM for their respective Annual Conferences. The 97th session of the Augusta Georgia Annual Conference convened on April 12- 14, 2011, at Bethel A.M.E. Church where the Rev. Mark S. Pierson (candidate for Episcopal office) is the pastor. The 128th Session of the Macon Georgia Annual Conference convened on May 3-5, 2011 at Saint Paul AME Church where the pastor is the Rev. Ronald Slaughter, a young man with an abundance of energy for ministry.
On Thursday April 14, 2011, the Rev. Margaret Arnold was the featured preacher of the service coordinated by Women in Ministry for the Augusta Georgia Conference. She used Psalm 55:22 along with the title “Cast Your Burdens upon the Lord!” to preach the noonday sermon. The Rev. Arnold told the congregation that the burdens of life were pulling them down and that burdens occupy too much of our time, she reminded us that we do not have to bear our burdens ourselves. This tiny woman of God preached as if she was a physical giant, she preached with power, passion and with a purpose.
The Rev. Margaret Arnold shared that “…the trouble is that we never really believe that God has our back…we need to be patient and believe that God is who He says that He is…some have little concept of the burden that others carry…what kind of burdens do people carry?...burdens in the home…burdens have to do with business responsibility..Burdens in connection with the Lord’s work…wondering how to help the backsliding folks…there are physical burdens...these are the hardest to bear, fear, anxiety…burdens at the loss of a loved one...burden of disappointment…we are not to despair, despair will not lift our burdens…if I had wings…cast your burdens on the Lord, He shall sustain you…sometimes we take our burdens to the Lord only to take them back again…the Lord is your helper, the Lord is your deliverer, the Lord is just a prayer away…the Lord will not permit the goodness to slip and fall…those who hope in the Lord will walk and not faint…you don’t have to carry the load anymore…take your burdens to the Lord and leave them there…if you have a heavy burden, God will take care of you…cast your burdens on the Lord…Jesus is the heavy load bearer…”
The Rev. Carolyn Byrd leads the Augusta Georgia Conference Women in Ministry and she is assisted by the Rev. Pamela E. Hobbs along with a dynamic group of sisters committed to God, the AME Church and ministry. It should be noted that a wonderful, much appreciated monetary gift was bestowed to the Augusta WIM by the Presiding Elders of the Conference to help with the work of Women in Ministry of the Conference. Many thanks to Presiding Elder Richard Ward and Presiding Elder Ella M. Samuels for a gesture that is truly appreciated.
The Women in Ministry leader for the Macon Annual Conference is the Rev. Gwendolyn A. Badie and she along with her Executive Board is doing an outstanding job in that Conference. The Rev. Badie stresses that WIM is not about separation and she encourages both clergy, laity, male and female to join and be involved with Women in Ministry. She was the Worship Leader for the noonday service coordinated by WIM on Thursday, May 5, 2011. “Finding Favor in the Fields!” was the sermon title from the text, Ruth 2: 1-12, preached at the Macon noonday service. The Rev. Esther Powers was indeed a “triple threat,” because she was the noonday preacher, she was ordained an Itinerant Elder later that night, and she received a Master of Divinity from the Interdenominational Theological Center a few days after she preached. The preacher reminded us that our circumstantial extremities are God’s opportunities; she told the congregation that even when we cannot see the hand of God at work, God is still there with us.
The Rev. Powers preached, “…God is working in us and is not through with us yet…it is God that guides…the Hebrew root word for favor is grace (?)...favor is not the result of your good behavior or your outward appearance…it can’t be purchased or earned…cant name it or claim it…cant pimp the favor of God…God’s favor..Is found in the fields of everyday life…Naomi did not falsely state, I’m too blessed to be stressed...Naomi had use up her energy in worrying and so she had none left…the requirements of favor are (1) take the initiative..inactivity is not an action…be willing to do something, be willing to move, take the first steps…(2) must trust God…God’s divine agenda is already in place…God is constantly working behind the scene, not scene but seen…what can be seen..It’s alright to be different…your difference is your definition...God uses some unusual people to bless you…you don’t know who your Boaz is…there is favor right in the fields where you are…favor declares to doubt, I know who I trust…favor contends that God is still God…God is still working it out for our good…my favor has nothing to do with my accounts…favor has nothing to do whether I am ordained or not, local or otherwise…God’s favor is always fair…(3) don’t forget to worship God when your favor comes…when your recognition comes…don’t forget to be humble, the favor of God should make us become grateful…favor happens when we are willing to bow down to God…I am so glad that human hands cannot conjure up the favor of God…favor cannot be bought in Macy’s…God’s favor meets me in the fields of ministry…”
I am truly impressed by all of the women who have answered the call to ministry and have shouldered the responsibilities (physical, financial etc) that accompany the calling. They have not neglected their other roles in life such as wife, mother sister, grandmother, aunt, friend, scholar, entrepreneur, educator, physician, or attorney. They are not “worldly superwomen” but they with God’s help are responding to the great commission and are also responding to Jesus’ statement that the harvest is plentiful and the laborers are few. These willing workers who just happen to be female are working, preaching teaching despite the obstacles and the patriarchal system that is deeply engrained in the Zion that we love so well, the African Methodist Episcopal Church. Keep working; preaching, teaching, and loving my sisters, cast your burdens on the Lord, continue to find favor in your field of ministry because change is on the horizon.
11. LAW DAY CELEBRATED AT NEW SALEM AME CHURCH - HONORING OFFICER DANITA MARSH:
Sister Mildred Johnson
New Salem AME Church and Pastor Anthony Thomas Sr. celebrated Law Day on Sunday April 17, 2011 honoring Officer Danita Marsh.
On October 27, 2006, Officer Danita Marsh life was changed forever when she was ambushed while assisting a domestic violent victim in her patrol cruiser.
Many came out Sunday April 17, 2011 to honor her for her dedicated service. Although things have changed in her life, people came out with an out pouring love and roses to shower her with. The choir praised her in song, dancer Nicole Foxx in dance, and Ms. Alveanie Wilson member of New Salem AME Church welcomed everyone in a way that we knew we were welcomed back.
We would like extend special thanks to our entire guest that came out and supported this effort, said Rev. Anthony Thomas Sr., who is the pastor of New Salem AME Church located in the Salem Town Community in north Nashville, and this is something that we wanted to do in honor of Officer Danita Marsh.
He also sends special thanks to Keynote speaker: Sheriff William Black that brought a stirring message to the crown and special thanks for his personal assistant, James Duke. We want to thank Mayor Karl Dean, Council woman Erica Gilmore Judge Angelina Dalton, Chaplain Rimmer, Metro Police Commander, Anthony Carter-North Precinct, Lois Derryberry Facilities, School Officers, Jerrilyn Manning, Ralph Thompson, Reuben Dotson, Darrell Short, Attorney Walter Searcy, and let us not forget the Craighead Academy Stripped Tie Guys and Girls they really sung their heart out.
Pastor Anthony Thomas would like to thank everyone for all they did to make this day a do to remember for our all our guest but especially to our Special Guest Officer Danita Marsh. Thank you for your untiring service to missions.
12. BETHEL AME CHURCH, BALTIMORE CELEBRATES ITS 100TH YEAR AT ITS PRESENT LOCATION:
*Mr. Saleem M. Wooden
Bethel’s dedication services continued from 8 January 1911 to 26 March 1911
The Senior Pastor of Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church in Baltimore, the Rev. Dr. Frank M. Reid, III has marked Bethel’s theme for this year as “2011 is the year of Glorifying God Through Excellence and Expansion”. Researching Bethel’s records did not reveal a church theme for the year of 1911, but the Bethel of 1911 surely did practice the theme we advocate today of “Glorifying God Through Excellence and Expansion”. For it was 100 years ago in 1911, that Bethel moved into its present sanctuary: the same sanctuary where the 195th Session of the Baltimore Annual Conference recently ended on 16 April 2011.
Bethel had worshipped in its sanctuary downtown near the corner of present day Holiday and Saratoga Streets for 114 years since 1797. It had built a new church on the adjoining lot to the original sanctuary in 1848 under the leadership of the Rev. Daniel Payne (later becoming Bishop Payne). In 1907, Bethel considered moving from its downtown location but those discussions did not bear fruit. But in 1909 with the City’s planned widening of Saratoga Street, it became imperative that Bethel move to a new location.
In a predominantly white neighborhood that was transforming into a mixed race neighborhood in west Baltimore at the corner of Druid Hill Avenue and Lanvale Street stood the St. Peters Protestant Episcopal Church. With a down payment made in December 1909 and the sale of the property fully completed on 22 November 1910, historic “Mother Bethel” of the Baltimore Conference of the African Methodist Episcopal (AME) Church purchased St. Peters P. E. Church as its new home for $90,000. It is interesting to note that St Peters P.E. Church had the edifice built as its new home in 1868 in the Norman Gothic architectural style for $100,000.
In the 26 November 1910 edition of the Baltimore Afro American Ledger newspaper, the paper reported about Bethel’s purchase with a large photo of the St Peters Protestant Episcopal Church. The sub-headline of the story stated, “The largest real estate deal ever consummated by Negroes in this city by Bethel Church.” It also stated that the property was “one of the largest and handsomest pieces of church property in the city.” As you can see, 1910 Bethel was practicing “Glorifying God thru Excellence and Expansion”.
The Baltimore Sun newspaper’s 23 November 1910 edition reported the Bethel purchase with the article ending with this last sentence: “The sale was made in consequence of the increasing colored population in the neighborhood.” Areas of the Druid Hill Avenue neighborhood were changing from an all white neighborhood to a mixed race neighborhood in 1910. Union Baptist and Sharp St Memorial Churches had moved to their present locations about a decade before Bethel’s move.
So in less than two months after the purchase, Bethel AME Church held its grand opening with its first worship service on Sunday, 8 January 1911. The 7 January 1911 edition of the Afro American Ledger newspaper had a large photo of the new Bethel on its front page and an article about “Impressive Ceremonies Will Mark The Opening of New Church”. There was so much anticipation in the City about Bethel’s first worship services that the Afro American newspaper had to print a special notice about Bethel’s first Sunday. The special notice stated “Free to all at the opening of New Bethel AME Church….All welcome, admission free to all. A false rumor has been circulated that an offering of $1.00 would be collected as an admission fee on that day which is incorrect.”
“With standing room at a premium” on that first Sunday at Druid Hill and Lanvale, the order of worship consisted of a song, praise and prayer service at 10 AM. The Dedicatory Sermon was delivered by the 2nd Episcopal District Prelate, the Bishop Levi Coppin at the 11 AM service. He was preaching back home again because he was Bethel’s pastor from 1881-1883. The 3 PM afternoon service was preached by the Rev. Ross of Metropolitan AME of Washington, D.C. The day concluded with an evening service at 7:30 PM with the Presiding Elder C. Harold Stepteau delivering the sermon. He would later become Bethel’s pastor from 1925 to 1930.
Dedication services at the church continued on Monday, 9 January 1911 and continued each day of the week except for Saturdays until the end of February. Various speakers included the Missionary Secretary of the AME Church, the Register of the United States Treasury, the editor of the AME Church’s Christian Recorder newspaper, the pastors and their congregations of the Baltimore Conference, and numerous guest speakers. There was a Baltimore City Public School Teachers night, a “St Paul, An Oratorio” recital night with a 100 voice choir, and a legal profession night with George McMechen leading the discussion.
(George McMechen was the attorney with his wife and three children that moved into the all white block of the 1800 block of McCulloh Street in June 1910. This move eventually sparked the Baltimore City Council to pass in late 1910, the nation’s first neighborhood residential segregation laws to keep blocks all white or all black. Several cities followed Baltimore’s lead in passing similar laws: Roanoke, Norfolk, Portsmouth, Winston-Salem, Greenville, and Atlanta. The laws were found unconstitutional in 1917.)
Other speakers of note were Ms. Hallie Brown of Wilberforce who delivered the sermon on Sunday, 12 February 1911 and Mr. James Matthews, a long time member of St Peters P.E. Church who spoke on 11 January 1911. He was a former reporter of the Baltimore American newspaper and remembered coming to Bethel in 1871 to report on Fredrick Douglass’s speech about being an envoy for the U.S. government to determine if the Dominican Republic wanted to become a U.S. possession.
The last service for the dedication of the “New Bethel” came during the Sunday afternoon service of 26 March 1911. The Colored YMCA was responsible for the service.
So, our 2011 Church theme of “Glorifying God Thru Excellence and Expansion” was manifested by our turn of the century forefathers. The Bethel of 2011 and the 195th Session of the Baltimore Annual Conference have something to learn from them as well. On the third page of the 1911 Souvenir Program for the Dedication Services of the New Bethel AME Church, the following words are found in large bold print: a glorious past. A hopeful future. Let us always continue to honor and remember our glorious past and always be hopeful with God as our guide for an expansive and excellent future.
*Mr. Saleem M. Wooden is the Church Historian at Bethel AME Church in Baltimore, Maryland.
13. MADAM ANNETTE MBAYE D'ERNEVILLE, LEADER OF THE INTERNATIONAL WOMEN'S MOVEMENT BEING HONORED AT LIBRARY OF CONGRESS:
Madam Marie Pierre Mbaye Myrick will speak at the U.S. Library of Congress on May 19. She was invited to address a conference focusing on the life and film documentary ("Mere-bi") of her iconic mother, Madam Annette Mbaye d'Erneville, internationally acclaimed journalist, poet and one of the leaders of the international women's movement. Madam Myrick is Public Relations Director of the one-of-its-kind Henriette Bathily Women's Museum, located at Gore Island, Senegal. Her local community activities include service on the boards for inter alia -- the Norfolk Sister Cities Association, Friends of Old Dominion University Women's Studies Program and the Annual Ambassador Bismarck Myrick Thanksgiving Day Celebrations (hosted in Portsmouth, Virginia).
Madam Myrick is married to retired U.S. career diplomat, Ambassador Bismarck Myrick, who is now Ambassador-in-Residence at Old Dominion University.
14. A TRIPARTITE CELEBRATION DURING THE LENTEN SEASON:
Ms. Matty Johnigan
Rejoice in the goodness, love and mercy of the Lord! And, that’s just what three Churches and their congregations did on three occasions during the Lenten Season. Joy Tabernacle A.M.E. Church, the Rev. Michael W. Waters, founder and pastor; Smith Chapel A.M.E. Church, the Rev. Sylvester D. Patton III, pastor; St. Paul A.M.E. Church, the Rev. Juan Tolliver, pastor (host church). All three of the Greater Dallas District, North Texas Annual Conference, Tenth Episcopal District united in three highly spiritual worship services.
The celebrations of praise and worship, confession and repentance, cleansing and self-examination, fasting and praying were ushered in on Ash Wednesday, March 9, 2011. The choirs of Joy Tabernacle and St. Paul ignited the fire of hope with adoration, praise and thanksgiving inducing a receptive atmosphere for the gospel in songs. As the praises lifted our hearts to higher grounds, shouts of inspiration and admiration served as catalysts preparing hungry souls to be nourished by the fire burning on the outside as well as within. The Ambassador, the Rev. Michael W. Waters, in his fiery and eloquent manner expounded on “I’m Ashy” taken from Jeremiah 21:1-7; 29:10-11. After a historical briefing on “ashes”, Rev. Waters proclaimed the obedience of the prophet as Jeremiah delivered the message the Lord had given him for the punishment of Judah. And, yet in the midst of what seemed defeat, the Lord also sent a message of hope: after fulfilling your 70 years of punishment the Lord says: “I have plans for you, plans to prosper you and not to harm you; plans to give you hope and a future.” Victory was promised the midst of what looked like defeat. Like a Phoenix rising from the ashes, we, too, shall rise up from the ashes of defeat to total victory in Jesus Christ.
With the power of the Holy Spirit profoundly burning inside and outside, the Invitation to Christian Discipleship was extended and all indicated they were disciples. The glorious evening concluded with the Ceremony of Ashes rendered by Rev. Patton and Rev. Tolliver. And, the evening of the first united worship service ended with the benediction by Rev. Waters and the congregants departed on a spiritual high.
The second gathering convened at the host church on Wednesday evening, March 30th with enthusiasm and a great expectancy. The choir of Smith Chapel with lifted voices as angels marching around God’s throne prepared the way for the entrance of the Holy Spirit. Songs of praises radiated sparkling rays of love and serenity penetrating the congregants with penitence. The Rev. Sylvester D. Patton, III, in his explosive narrative style emphatically portrayed the parable of Jesus and the Samaritan woman at the well. Text: John 4:4-7; subject “He Had to Go.” Although the Jews and the Samaritans had futile relationships, Jesus had to go through Samaria to save a sin sick soul unable to see a well of water sitting on a well of water. One encounter with Jesus not only redeemed the Samaritan woman but her testimony “Come see a man …” brought conversion to a whole community. He had to go to find you and me to testify of His saving power throughout Samaria and to the utmost places of the earth. The invitation to Christian Discipleship was extended, the redeemed said so and the prayer of benediction by Rev. Patton ended an enriched evening of divine aspiration.
The culmination of the united Lenten worship services assembled on April 20th at the host church. The sanctuary filled with the people of God zealously and vivaciously anticipating holy fire from above to rain down and minister to the needs of the congregants. The choir of St. Paul drew our attention from the burdens of the day by elevating us to heights of serenity and blessedness. Their angelic voices with soul stirring power magnified and electrified as an unspeakable joy of love and righteousness abound.
Continuing in this atmosphere of love, the Rev. Juan N. Tolliver appeared on the scene and directed our attention to Hebrews 12:1-3. The Word, orchestrated by the Master Architect, challenged the people of God to run your designated race with patience. Having heard the cloud of witnesses -prepare to run: “On Your Mark, Get Ready, Go!” Look to Jesus, Who took so much from sinful men so, you, too, can endure, not grow weary, tired and give up. You thought it would be easy when you gave your life to Christ; however, the Christian journey is compared to a race: not a marathon race but a spiritual race. On your mark, get ready go!
Sometimes we get cramps while running (struggles with our faith; deception by the adversary; people getting on your last nerve). You need spiritual preparation to build up endurance to stay in the race. Lay aside your burdens, sins that distract. You can’t run your race in your robe; take it off so God can get the glory. The race is not given to the swift but to he who endures. If you drop out of the race you can’t get your crown. On your mark, get ready, go! Somebody came before us; our heroes, our cloud of witnesses. Let us run with patience the race appointed to us. Look to Jesus our role model, our elder brother. Keep your eyes on Jesus, the beginning and the end, the author and finisher of our Faith. The Invitation to Christian Discipleship was extended and all indicated they were saved.
In the closing moments of this glorious celebration recognitions of financial blessings were bestowed upon the extended families of the churches. Recipient, Pearl C. Anderson Middle School adopted by Joy Tabernacle. Recipient, William Brown Miller Elementary School, adopted by Smith Chapel, Recipient, Phyllis Wheatley Elementary School, adopted by St. Paul And, recognition with an attitude of gratitude was also given to our distinguished and renown Presiding Prelate and Episcopal Supervisor, the Right Reverend Gregory G. M. Ingram and the Reverend Dr. Jessica Kendall Ingram who shared these worship services with us. Bishop Ingram graced the congregants with words of wisdom and rounding off the financial blessings for the 3 public schools to the nearest thousand. The Rev. Elliott C. Lambert, pastor of our sister church, Greater Garth Chapel A.M.E. Church (who was in a recent auto automobile accident) and his lovely wife Arlene also received a financial blessing from the three churches. Presiding Elder James W. Ford of the Greater Dallas District was also in attendance.
The Benediction was given by our Episcopal supervisor, the Rev. Dr. Jessica K. Ingram, as the congregants departed in fellowship, love and a spiritual renewal, precious memories of the trio churches will linger on for Generations to come. Not only is God good all the time, all the time God is Love.
15. AME BISHOP VASHTI MURPHY MCKENZIE IS LOUISVILLE PRESBYTERIAN SEMINARY COMMENCEMENT SPEAKER:
May 13, 2011 - Louisville Presbyterian Theological Seminary will hold its 158th Commencement exercises on Sunday, May 22, 2011, at Second Presbyterian Church in Louisville, Ky., at 3:30 p.m.
The Rt. Rev. Vashti Murphy McKenzie, Bishop of the 13th Episcopal District of the African Methodist Episcopal (AME) Church, is the Commencement speaker. Her address is entitled "Which One of You?"
Bishop McKenzie serves as the 117th elected Bishop of the African Methodist Episcopal (AME) Church. Her historic election in 2000 represents the first time in the 200-year history of the AME Church that a woman had obtained that level of Episcopal office. In 2005, she again made history by becoming the first woman selected as the head of the denomination, as the presiding prelate of the Council of Bishops.
McKenzie is a graduate of the University of Maryland at College Park, where she began a successful career in journalism, radio, and Christian media broadcasting. After joining the AME Church, she earned her Master of Divinity degree from Howard University Divinity School and the Doctor of Ministry from United Theological Seminary in Dayton, Ohio. She has served as a congregational pastor and was featured in Ebony Magazine’s "Honor Roll of Great African American Preachers." McKenzie preaches and speaks to diverse groups across the country and around the world. In April 2011, she was the guest speaker of Louisville Seminary’s Women at the Well Retreat for women of color in serving in ministry. She also is the author of four books, including Not without a Struggle and Strength in the Struggle, focused on leadership and professional growth for women.
As Bishop of the 13th Episcopal District, based in Nashville, Tenn., she has launched an innovative agenda among her congregations with an aim to “Rebuild lives, Churches, and Communities” through numerous social ministries, with educational services among her priorities. Bishop McKenzie values theological education and, under her leadership, AME Church students have been encouraged to study at Louisville Seminary, and they have done so with distinction.
“Over the years, Louisville Seminary has been honored to count among its alums men and women of the African Methodist Episcopal Church, who have honored their denomination and Louisville Seminary with their study and preparation for continued ministry in the church,” said President Michael Jinkins, who will be presiding at his first Commencement ceremony since becoming President of the Seminary in September 2010.
These alums have included the late Louisville activist Rev. Louis H. Coleman Jr. (MDiv ’79); Rev. Charmayne Davis (MACE), who directed the first Freedom School in Louisville and is currently studying in the Seminary’s Doctor of Ministry program; Rev. Erika Taylor, a graduate of the Marriage and Family Therapy program (2006), who is a therapist and pastor Greater Taylor Chapel AME Church in Franklin, Ky.; and Rev. Shielah Robinson, who graduated in 2010 with dual degrees in divinity and marriage and family therapy.
Commencement Exercises
Louisville Seminary will confer the following degrees: Master of Divinity, Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy, Master of Arts (Religion), Master of Theology, and Doctor of Ministry. Of the 33 potential graduates, 17 are women and 16 are men. Two in the graduating class will receive dual degrees with their Master of Divinity degree, one the Juris Doctorate from the University of Louisville, and another the Master of Spirituality degree from Bellarmine University.
The 158th Commencement will also mark a significant milestone in the Seminary’s history. Several men and women will be recognized for their continuing studies on behalf of the church as the Certificate in Black Church Studies is awarded for the first time to six students. In addition, Certificates in Pastoral Studies and Pastoral Counseling Supervision will be awarded.
As part of the ceremony, the Devoted Service Awards, which recognize individuals for their dedicated service in the life of the Church, will be presented to the Commencement Speaker and to Elder Carolyn Jordan, Moderator of the Synod of Living Waters, which comprises 12 presbyteries in the four-state region of Kentucky, Tennessee, Mississippi, and Alabama.
Graduate awards also will be announced recognizing student accomplishments in a variety of areas, including, preaching, theology, the integration of theology with marriage and family therapy, field education, and overall academic achievement.
Baccalaureate Service
Prior to Commencement, at a morning worship service, Dr. Dianne Reistroffer, Director of Field Education and Methodist Studies and Professor of Ministry, will deliver the Baccalaureate sermon, “God Bless this Mess.” The Baccalaureate will be held in the Seminary’s Frank H. and Fannie W. Caldwell Chapel at 10:30 a.m.
Each year, members of the graduating class select the Baccalaureate preacher and create the worship service.
A member of the Louisville Seminary faculty since 1998, Dr. Reistroffer is an experienced pastor and educator, with dual standing as a clergy member in the Wisconsin Conference of the United Methodist Church and the Presbytery of Western Kentucky of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.). She earned degrees from the College of St. Teresa, Winona, Minnesota, (BA); Villanova University, Pennsylvania (MA); Boston University School of Theology (MTS, MDiv); and the University of Wisconsin, Madison (PhD), with additional study at Harvard Graduate School of Education. She has received numerous awards during her tenure at Louisville Seminary, including the 2000 Metroversity Grawemeyer Special Merit Award for Instructional Development for her course, “Faith and Money.” In 2000, during her years as Seminary Dean, she also earned for Louisville Seminary a $300,000 grant from the Luce Foundation in order to establish a comprehensive academic support services program for seminary students. She also has been recognized for her coaching models for guiding faculty work in curriculum and course assessment. Her guidance of students through their practical education experiences has endeared her among the graduates as a significant contribution to their formation for ministry.
Founded in 1853, Louisville Presbyterian Theological Seminary is one of ten Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) seminaries. The Seminary is committed to nurturing an inclusive learning community in which men and women can follow God’s call to theological education and prepare to serve in an increasingly pluralistic world.
Caldwell Chapel is located on the campus of Louisville Seminary at 1044 Alta Vista Road, Louisville, Ky., 40205, and Second Presbyterian Church is located at 3701 Old Brownsboro Road.
16. PRISON MINISTRY SHOULD BE IMPORTANT TO THE AME CHURCH - FREE-2-WORSHIP GUIDE:
The Rev. Gloria Sydnor Smith, Esq.
This message is for all of those who are, or want to be involved in prison ministry.
It is a very important ministry that the AME Church not neglect prison ministry. In fact, prison ministry should be a high priority throughout the AME Church.
I have developed a model for prison ministry and invite readers to use all or any parts of this model. This ministry is a part of my D. Min. Project. All responses will be properly documented, but I will not use any names without permission.
“Nothing has contributed more to the systematic mass incarceration of people of color in the United States than the War on Drugs.” (Michelle Alexander, The New Jim Crow: Mass Incarceration in the Age of Colorblindness. New York: The New Press, 59).
The War on Drugs was announced in 1982 by President Ronald Reagan three years before the introduction of crack cocaine that some believe was purposely aimed against the African American community. Statistics show “The number of people incarcerated in U.S. prisons and jails increased from 300,000 to 2 million from 1980 to 2000” and “African Americans make up 43.9 percent of the state and federal prison populations; but only 12.3 percent of the U.S. population.”
The lopsided numbers have a tremendous impact on the African American community. The failure of some AME pastors to implement prison ministries when there is an obvious need for this type of ministry in our communities demonstrates that some of pastors may be afraid or apprehensive about doing prison ministry.
Free-2-Worship is about challenging pastors in the AME Church to overcome any fears to establishing prison ministry programs in local churches. AME pastors are mandated “to minister to the social, spiritual, and physical development of all people.” (2008 AMEC Discipline, p. 16). “All people” include those that are in prison, and their families. Accordingly, every AME Church should have a prison ministry that intentionally targets the social needs that stem from mass incarceration. We are reminded in scripture, “For God did not give us a spirit of timidity, but a spirit of power, of love and of self-discipline.” 2 Timothy 1:7 (NIV)
Free-2-Worship is prophetic preaching that encourages people in the traditional church to welcome individuals, who have been branded as criminals, into the church and the worship experience. It exposes the truth: There is bondage in the church until everyone is free to worship God in the church and the worship experience. The church that refuses to accept everyone who desires to return to God is not engaged in the true worship of God; they are worshipping false gods that are only concerned with outward appearances.
There are ministry models for creating an atmosphere that welcomes individuals, caught up in the criminal system, into the church and the worship experience. One of the models is presented below:
Free-2-Worship Ministry Model
- One: Identify individuals who are in the criminal system through the members and families that are in the church. The individuals do not have to be members of the church.
- Two: Determine the case stage and whether the individuals are locked up.
(1) Pre-trial – Begins with arrest, up until the person goes to trial or pleads out.
(2) Post-conviction – The person has already been found guilty and/or sentenced.
(3) Post-release – The person has already served time in jail or prison.
- Three: Develop an action plan that will meet the needs of the individuals in the system. Examples of action plans include, but are not limited to:
Pre-trial Action Plan:
1) The pastor and/or a member from the church attend all court hearings.
2) If the individuals are out on bond, the pastor and members of the church should encourage the individuals to regularly attend church.
3) If the individuals are locked up, visit them in jail.
Post-conviction Action Plan:
1) The pastor and/or someone from the church should determine whether an appeal is appropriate or not.
2) If the individuals have not been sentenced yet, the pastor or a member of the church may be able to help by writing a letter to the Judge. The letter should be sent to the defense attorney for review to make sure that the letter is helpful.
3) If the individuals have been sentenced to probation, the church may be able to help by providing an opportunity for community service, employment, or help with housing and/or meals.
4) If the individuals are incarcerated, the church should maintain contact with the individuals and sends letters and/or books to them. (A sample letter is attached to the email).
5) If the individuals are incarcerated, the church may be able to help by providing transportation for family members to visit during visiting hours.
6) If the individuals are incarcerated, they should be encouraged to attend the Christian worship service at the institution.
Post Release Action Plan:
1) The church may be able to help with housing and/or meals.
2) The pastor and members from the church should encourage the individuals to attend church on a regular basis.
3) The church may be able to provide an opportunity for community service, employment, or help with housing and/or meals.
Free-2-Worship Ministry Model
D. Min. Project, United Theological Seminary, Dayton, Ohio, Focus Group: Prophetic Preaching in the 21st Century of the African American Church
The Rev. Gloria Lynn Sydnor Smith, Esq.
Pastor, Whitman Chapel AMEC, Belpre, Ohio
513-602-5268 Cell
gloriasmithlaw@aol.com
Sample Letter to Prison Inmate (On Church Letterhead)
Date
Inmate Name (Prison #)
Another Correctional Facility
Anywhere, OH 12345
Dear (Inmate name):
I am the pastor at Whitman Chapel African Methodist Episcopal Church. Your father attends our worship service and he asked the church to pray for you.
The members of Whitman Chapel have been praying for you and we will continue to pray for you. We want you to be strong. Psalm 105:4 says, “Look to the LORD and his strength; seek his face always.” This psalm was written by David, a man that made many mistakes in his life, but he never turned away from God. David knew that no matter what he was going through, and no matter what he did, he had to look to the Lord.
David knew where his strength came from. (First Name), your strength is in the Lord too. You can pray as David prayed:
“Have mercy on me, O God, have mercy on me, for in you my soul takes refuge. I will take refuge in the shadow of your wings until the disaster has passed.” Psalm 57:1
We know that you are dealing with a lot right now, but please remember, we are thinking about you and praying for you. We encourage you to attend church services regularly and to read your Bible daily. If you do not have a Bible, we will send one to you.
We would like to continue to communicate with you, but we will respect your space if you do not want that. We would love to hear from you. We would also love to have you worship with us upon your release.
With His Love in our hearts,
The Rev. Gloria Sydnor Smith and the
Members of Whitman Chapel
17. AME LUNCHEON AT THE 2011 HAMPTON MINISTERS’ CONFERENCE:
Information about the AME Luncheon at the 97th Annual Hampton University Ministers’ Conference and 77th Annual Choir Directors’ Organists’ Guild Workshop
The AME Luncheon at the 97th Annual Hampton University Ministers’ Conference and 77th Annual Choir Directors’ Organists’ Guild Workshop will be held on Wednesday June 08, 2011 at 12 Noon at the Crowne Plaza Hotel (formally the Radisson Hotel), 700 Settlers Landing Road Hampton, Virginia. The Cost of the Luncheon is $25.00 and it is always a great time of fellowship.
If you need further information call Bethel AME Church 757-723-4065.
**Submitted by the Rev. Andre Jefferson, pastor of Bethel AME Church in Hampton and the coordinator of the AME Luncheon
About the 97th Annual Hampton University Ministers’ Conference and 77th Annual Choir Directors’ Organists’ Guild Workshop go to:
http://minconf.hamptonu.edu/
18. TENTH EPISCOPAL DISTRICT AFRICAN METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH CALENDAR OF EVENTS 2011:
Bishop Gregory G.M. Ingram, Presiding Prelate
The Reverend Dr. Jessica Kendall Ingram, Episcopal Supervisor
2011 CONVOCATION
JULY 7-9, 2011
Crowne Plaza Hotel
14315 Midway Road
Addison, Texas 75001
For Reservations-Call
972-980-8877 Push 1 For Reservation
Group Rate Block Code: CV7
Group Rates:
$105.00 Includes Breakfast For Two
$115.00 For Triple Includes Breakfast for three
$125.00 For Quad Includes Breakfast for four
Reservation Cut Off Date: June 15, 2011
2011 NORTH TEXAS ANNUAL CONFERENCE
September 10 –September 17, 2011
Holiday Inn Express & Suites
1310 E. Wintergreen Road * Desoto, Texas 75115
Hotel Phone# 972-224-3100
Group Name: 10th District AMEC
Group Rate: $105.00 Includes Breakfast
$115.00 Suite Includes Breakfast
Reservation Cut Off Date: August 15, 2011
September 10, 2011 – YPD Day
September 12, 2011 – Missionary Day
September 13, 2011 – The Gathering of Women
September 13, 2011 – Opening Worship
Host: St. Paul AMEC – The Rev. Juan Tolliver
2011 NORTHWEST TEXAS ANNUAL CONFERENCE
September 24- October 1, 2011
Hilton Waco Hotel
113 S University Parks Drive
Waco, Texas 76701
Hotel Phone # 254-754-8484
Group Name: AME 10th Episcopal District
Group Rate: $119.00
Reservation Cut-Off Date: August 28, 2011
September 24, 2011 – YPD Day
September 26, 2011– Missionary Day
September 27, 2011 – The Gathering of Women
September 27, 2011 – Opening Worship
Host: St. Paul AMEC – The Rev. George Johnson
2011 SOUTHWEST TEXAS ANNUAL CONFERENCE
October 8– October 15, 2011
Hilton San Antonio Airport
661 N.W. Loop 410
San Antonio, Texas 78216
Hotel Phone # 210-340-6060
Group Name: 10th Episcopal District AMEC SW Conference
Group Rate: $105.00
Reservation Cut-Off Date: September 22, 2011
October 8, 2011 – YPD Day
October 10, 2011– Missionary Day
October 11, 2011 – The Gathering of Women
October 11, 2011 – Opening Worship
Host: Bethel AMEC – The Rev. Raymond Bryant
2011 TEXAS ANNUAL CONFERENCE
October 22 – October 29, 2011
Holiday Inn Reliant Park
8111 Kirby Drive
Houston, Texas 77054
Hotel Phone# 713-799-1900
Group Name: 10th District AMEC
Group Rate: $79.00
Reservation Cut-Off Date: October 10, 2011
October 22, 2011 – YPD Day
October 24, 2011 – Missionary Day
October 25, 2011 – The Gathering of Women
October 25, 2011 – Opening Worship
Host: Wesley AMEC – The Rev. Leo Griffin
2011 PLANNING MEETING
NOVEMBER 17-19, 2011
Hyatt Regency North Dallas Hotel
701 E. Campbell Rd.
Richardson, Texas 75081
Hotel Phone# 972-231-9600
Group Name: 10th District AME Church
Group Rate: $120.00
Reservation Cut-Off Date: October 25, 2011
20. THE ELEVENTH EPISCOPAL DISTRICT AFRICAN METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH CALENDAR OF EVENTS 2011:
Bishop McKinley Young, Presiding Prelate
Dr. Dorothy Young, Episcopal Supervisor
146th Session - Florida Annual Conference
August 20-26, 2011
Bethel AME Church
501 W. Orange Ave
Tallahassee, FL 32310
(850) 576 -7501
The Rev. Dr. Julius H. McAllister, Jr., Host Pastor
The Rev. Dr. Carlton V. Taylor, Host Presiding Elder
112th Session - Central Annual Conference
September 10-16, 2011
St. Mark AME Church
1960 Bruton Blvd
Orlando, FL 32805
(407) 422 6941
The Rev. Terence R. Gray, Host Pastor
The Rev. Hartford Lee, Host Presiding Elder
121st Session - South Annual Conference
September 24-30, 2011
Greater Bethel AME Church
245 NW 8th Street
Miami, FL 33136
(305) 371-9102
The Rev. Eddie Lake, Host Pastor
The Rev. John L. Bodison, Host Presiding Elder
71st Session - West Coast Annual Conference
October 8-14, 2011
Allen Temple AME Church
2101 Lowe Street
Tampa, FL 33606
(813) 229 1438
The Rev. Michael K. Bouie, Host Pastor
The Rev. Henry E. Green, Jr., Host Presiding Elder
136th Session - East Annual Conference
October 22-28, 2011
St. Paul AME Church
6910 New Kings Road
Jacksonville, FL 32219
(904) 764-2755
The Rev. Dr. Marvin C. Zanders, II, Host Pastor
The Rev. Elizabeth E. Yates, Host Presiding Elder
72nd Session - Bahamas Annual Conference
November 1-6, 2011
Cousin McPhee AME Church
Nassau, Bahamas
(242) 361-0809
The Rev. Dr. Ranford Patterson, Host Pastor
The Rev. Howard Williamson, Host Presiding Elder
Post Conference Planning Meeting
November 17-19, 2011
Rosen Plaza Hotel
9700 International Drive
Orlando, FL 32819
407 996 9700
21. THE 2011 NINETEENTH EPISCOPAL DISTRICT ANNUAL CONFERENCE SCHEDULE:
Bishop Jeffrey N. Leath, Presiding Prelate
Susan J. Leath, M.D., Episcopal Supervisor
EAST ANNUAL CONFERENCE
Sixtieth Session
6-9 October 2011
D.M. Robinson A.M.E. Church
Sebokeng
The Rev. Seabi Jacob Moleli, Host Pastor
The Rev. T.A.M. Mofokeng, Host Presiding Elder
M.M. MOKONE ANNUAL CONFERENCE
Twenty-Seventh Session
13-16 October 2011
Nkosi Memorial A.M.E. Church
Rustenburg
The Rev. L.S. Moobi, Host Pastor
The Rev. P.J. Mengoai, Host Presiding Elder
NATAL ANNUAL CONFERENCE
Eighty-third Session
20-23 October 2011
Richard Allen Chapel A.M.E. Church
Madadeni
The Rev. Nesta J. Rakhetsi, Host Pastor
The Rev. S.A.P. Mbambo, Host Presiding Elder
ORANGIA ANNUAL CONFERENCE
One Hundred Fourteenth Session
27-30 November 2011
Mt. Zion A.M.E. Church
Bloemfontein
The Rev. Thabo Matsaseng, Host Pastor
The Rev. S.B. Dire, Host Presiding Elder
WEST ANNUAL CONFERENCE
One Hundred Fourteenth Session
10-13 November 2011
New Robinson A.M.E. Church
Tladi, Soweto
The Rev. T.N. Tsimane, Host Pastor
The Rev. M. A. Mexico, Host Presiding Elder
22. EPISCOPAL AND CLERGY CONGRATULATORY ANNOUNCEMENTS:
- Congratulations to Joi - Marie Murphy McKenzie, daughter of Bishop Vashti Murphy McKenzie and Episcopal Supervisor Stan McKenzie
Joi - Marie Murphy McKenzie, the daughter of Bishop Vashti Murphy McKenzie, Presiding Prelate of the Thirteenth Episcopal District and Brother Stan McKenzie, Episcopal Supervisor, graduated from Columbia University's School of Journalism, receiving her Master of Arts degree, Wednesday, May 18, 2011. She has a concentration in Digital Journalism.
Congratulatory messages can be emailed to:
Bishop Vashti Murphy McKenzie kergyma00@aol.com
Episcopal Supervisor Stan McKenzie: stanmckenzie44@aol.com
- Bahamas Conference AME Church Congratulates Presiding Elder, the Rev. Dr. Ranford Patterson
The Bahamas Conference of the African Methodist Episcopal Church congratulates Presiding Elder, the Rev. Dr. Ranford Patterson on his election to the office of President of the Bahamas Christian Council.
The Bahamas Christian Council is the official interface between the church and the government, and the Church and other civic institutions like the media. To the public, including non-Christians, the Council's position is seen as the formal position of the Church on national issues.
The fact that Elder Patterson was elected by a unanimous decision is a symbol of the respect and confidence he enjoys among his peers across denomination lines. As President of this 63-year old Council, Rev. Patterson will bring his remarkable people skills and consensus-building flair to promoting understanding and trust between the various parts of the Christian Church in the Bahamas. We are confident that as he represents the Council in national and global forum, he will uphold the core Christian principles which has been the bedrock of his AME training and experience.
At this point in time the Bahamas nation needs a strong Christian voice to remind it of those principles of righteousness which support this nation's prosperity over the years. Rev. Patterson has such a voice. The Bahamas Church family is looking for models to show them how to stand firm in the face of adversity. Dr. Patterson by his character, training and experience is suitably qualified to be such a model.
We want Dr. Patterson to know that we love him, and are supporting him in this call to higher duty. We include in our prayers all the officers elected to serve with him. For they too have been call to an awesome task at a time like this. Likewise we pray for his families who have to undergird him and bear him up as he responds to this call to national duty.
About the Bahamas Christian Council
Founded in 1948. Mission statement: The Bahamas Christian Council is constituted to promote understanding and trust between the various parts of Christ's church in the Bahamas at all levels; to further Christ's mission of service by joint action of Christians in the Bahamas; to witness for the Christian community in the Bahamas on matters of social or common concern.
Website: http://www.oikoumene.org/en/member-churches/regions/caribbean/bahamas/bcc.html
Congratulatory Messages can be sent to:
Pastor Ranford A. Patterson
Cousin McPhee Cathedral AME
Carmichael Road
P.O. Box CR 56028
Nassau, Bahamas
242-361-0809 Office
Or emailed to: instposs@yahoo.com
- Congratulations to Ms. Felecia Commodore:
On Friday, May 20th, Ms. Felecia Commodore will be graduating from the University of Maryland, College Park with an M.A. in Higher Education Administration. After graduation she will be continuing this fall to pursue a Ph.D. in Higher Education at the University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia.
Her research area is HBCU leadership, governance, and administrative practices. Felecia is a member of Reid Temple AME Church in Glenn Dale, Maryland and currently serves as the 2nd Episcopal District Lay Organization Young Adult Representative. She is the daughter of the Rev. Bedelia Commodore and Frank Commodore, Jr.
Congratulatory messages can be emailed to: fcommodore@gmail.com
- Congratulations to Carolyn Clarene Cavaness
Congratulations to Carolyn Clarene Cavaness, daughter of the Rev. Harold H. Cavaness and Ms. Karen H. Cavaness, who will graduate on May 20, 2011, from Union Theological Seminary in New York City with a Master of Divinity Degree. Carolyn received the seminary's preaching award in her second year of seminary and also served as a member of the Seminary's Board of Trustees Development Committee.
Carolyn is the former New Jersey Conference YPD President and was ordained in April 2010 as an Itinerant Deacon.
Congratulatory messages can be emailed to:
Carolyn C. Cavaness - cccavaness@aol.com
Congratulatory messages can be sent to:
Carolyn C. Cavaness
246 Osborne Terrace
Newark, NJ 07112
23. EPISCOPAL FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
Episcopal Family Bereavement Notice - The passing of Mrs. Mamie Ella Scarlett Hartsfield the mother of Supervisor Penny H. White and the mother-in-law of Bishop John F. White
Regretfully We Share the Following:
The passing of Mrs. Mamie Ella Scarlett Hartsfield the mother of Supervisor Penny H. White and the mother-in-law of Bishop John F. White, Ecumenical & Urban Affairs Officer & Endorsing Agent, of the African Methodist Episcopal Church.
Arrangements for Mrs. Mamie Ella Scarlett Hartsfield are as follows:
Celebration of Life Service
Friday, May 20, 2011 at 12 Noon
Fountain Chapel AME Church
821 Eugenia Street
Tallahassee, FL 32310
The Rev. Semmeal Thomas, Pastor
Telephone: (850) 222-3800 Church
Services are entrusted to:
Strong and Jones Funeral Home, Inc.
551 West Caroline Street
Tallahassee, FL 32310
(850) 224-2139
(850) 224-0213 (Fax)
Expressions of Condolences may be sent to:
Bishop John F. & Supervisor Penny H. White
1133 Seminole Drive
Tallahassee, FL 32301
Supervisor Penny H. White
Email: phw137@comcast.net
Ph (954) 665-3101
Bishop John F. White
Email: bishopwhite130@aol.com
Ph (954) 849-5686
24. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
The death of the Rev. MP Khumalo of the 19th Episcopal District
The MM Mokone Annual Conference of the 19th Episcopal District mourns the death of the Rev. MP Khumalo who served the African Methodist Episcopal Church.
The Rev. Khumalo passed on Saturday evening after a short illness. He served the church as an Itinerant Elder from 1986 to 2006 at Anna M Senatle AME Church, Allemansdrift. His next appointment was at Hickman Chapel AME Church, Bela Bela in 2007. He met with death serving as an assistant pastor of New Lebala AME Church, Marapyane from 2008.
The MM Mokone Conference of the 19th Episcopal District sends out a message of solace to the Family, Friends, Colleagues and members of our church.
The Funeral Service for the Rev. Khumalo will be held on Friday 20th May 2011 from 7-9 a.m. at Anna M Senatle AME Church.
May his soul rest in peace.
Submitted by the Rev. Gaborone P. Lesito. Bishop Jeffrey Nathaniel Leath is the Presiding Prelate of the 19th Episcopal District
25. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
We regretfully announce the passing of Sister Wanda Ray, mother of the Rev. Keith N. Ray and mother-in-law of Evangelist Tina Wallace Ray on Tuesday, May 17, 2011. Rev. and Evangelist Ray are members of St. James AME Church-Fort Worth, Texas, the Rev. Damon Blakeley, Pastor. Sister Wanda Ray was a member of Johnson Chapel AME Church, Fort Worth, Texas, the Rev. Theo Mays, Pastor. Both churches are in the Greater Fort Worth District, Northwest Texas Conference of the 10th Episcopal District, the Rev. Johnny Ray Mitchell, Presiding Elder; Bishop Gregory G.M. Ingram, Presiding Prelate of the 10th Episcopal District.
The following information has been shared for the Viewing, Wake and Homegoing Celebration of Sister Wanda Ray.
Viewing: Friday, May 20, 2011 from 8 A.M.-4 P.M. at
Gregory W. Spencer Funeral Directors, Inc.
Wake: Friday, May 20, 2011 from 7 P.M. - 8 P.M. at Johnson
Chapel AME Church-Fort Worth, Texas
Homegoing Celebration: Saturday, May 21, 2011 at 11:00 A.M. at
Johnson Chapel AME Church
5235 Bonnell Street
Fort Worth, Texas 76107
Ph: (817) 738-6329
The Rev. Theo Mays, Pastor
The Rev. Keith Ray, Eulogist
Professional Services are being rendered by:
Gregory W. Spencer Funeral Directors, Inc.
4000 Miller Avenue
Fort Worth, Texas 76119
(817) 531-8666
Condolences can be mailed to:
Mr. Bobby Ray
3605 Falcon Drive
Fort Worth, TX 76119
Or
The Rev. Keith and Evang. Tina Ray
1815 London Lane #512
Arlington, TX 76017
26. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
We regret to share news of the passing of the Reverend Robert J. (R.J.) King, beloved retired pastor of the Northeast Alabama Conference, and member of St. Mark A.M.E. Church - Enon Ridge, Birmingham Alabama. Rev. King passed on Sunday, May 15, 2011. He leaves to cherish fond memories: his wife, Sister Jerry King, and son - Mr. Roderick King.
Service Arrangements for the Rev. R.J. King:
Homegoing Celebration: Saturday, May 21, 2011 at 12 Noon
Bryant Chapel A.M.E. Church
3125 Spaulding St. S.W.
Birmingham, Alabama 35231
(205) 925-7151
The Rev. Damien Littlejohn, Pastor
The Rev. W.N. Huggins, Presiding Elder
Eulogist: Bishop J. L. Davis, Presiding Prelate of the Ninth Episcopal District
Services are entrusted to:
Johnson Funeral Home
8531 Zion City Road
Birmingham, Alabama 35206
Telephone: (205) 836-3583
Fax: (205) 836 -3581
Expressions of sympathy may be sent to:
Sister Jerry King
31 Alabama St.
Bessemer, Alabama 35020-7415
Phone: (205) 428-5843
Email condolences may be sent to: Rodrick.King@Live.com
27. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
It is with regret that we inform of the death of Mrs. Margaret Cason Ward of Leesburg, Florida. Mrs. Ward, 87 was a retired educator, a faithful member of St Paul AME Church, Leesburg, Florida and Past President of the 11th Episcopal District Women's Missionary Society.
She is survived by her children, Randretta Ward-Evans and Sylvester Randolph Ward, three grandchildren and four great grandchildren.
Arrangements are announced as follows:
Wake Service: Friday May 20, 2011 4:00-8:00 PM
St Paul AME Church
110 South Lake Street
Leesburg, FL 34748
The Rev. Terrell Blair, Pastor
Phone: 352-787-5248
Service of Celebration: Saturday, May 21, 2011 at 11:00 am
Morrison United Methodist Church
1005 West Main Street
Leesburg, FL 34748
The Rev. Terrell Blair, Officiating
Presiding Elder F. Bernard Lemon, Eulogist
Services entrusted to:
Postell's Mortuary
811 N. Powers Drive
Orlando, FL 32818
Phone: 407-295-3857
Fax: 407-295-0307
In lieu of flowers, the family is asking that donations be made to:
Ward Scholarship Fund
P.O. Box 490225
Leesburg, FL 34749-0225
Expressions of sympathy may be sent to:
Mrs. Randretta Ward-Evans
401 Mills Street
Leesburg, FL 34748
Phone: 352-787-4293
28. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
We regret to share news of the passing of Mrs. Dorothy Craft, the sister of the Rev. Dr. Sherryl Matlock, pastor of Historic Allen Chapel AME Church - Fort Worth, Texas. Mrs. Dorothy Craft passed on Tuesday, May 17, 2011.
Service arrangements for Dorothy Craft:
Viewing: Friday, May 20, 2011, 6 P.M. - 8 P.M.
Baker Funeral Home
301 East Rosedale Street
Fort Worth, TX 76104
(817) 332-4468
Fax: (817) 332-3017
Homegoing Celebration: Saturday, May 21, 2011 at 11 A.M.
Bethlehem Baptist Church
305 N. 3rd Street
Grandview, Texas 76050
The Rev. William Bradford, Pastor
(817) 866-2860
Expressions of sympathy may be sent to:
Allen Chapel AME Church
The Rev. Dr. Sherryl Matlock, pastor
116 Elm Street
Fort Worth, Texas 76102
(817) 332-5071 Church Phone
Contact the Rev. Dr. Sherryl Matlock, email: 1wim@htcomp.net; or by telephone (817) 296-1849 (cell)
Condolences may also be posted on Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?ref=name&id=100000434565723#!/sherryl.matlock
29. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
We regret to announce the passing of Deacon James L. Neal, 89, of Ashford, Alabama, the father of First Lady Naomi Neal Reeves and father-in-law of the Rev. Jimmie E. Reeves, pastor, Freemont AME Church, Baker Hill, Alabama. Deacon Neal departed this life, Monday, May 16, 2011.
Celebration of Life Service for Deacon James L Neal:
Saturday, May 21, 2011 - 11:30 AM
Piney Grove Missionary Baptist Church
5 Piney Grove Road
Webb, Alabama
The Reverend Alfonso Neal, Pastor
The Reverend Alfonso Neal, Officiating/Eulogist
Services Entrusted to:
Scott's Chapel Hill Mortuary
103 W. Southport Street
Dothan, AL 36303
(334) 677-7200 - Phone
(334) 677-1511 - Fax
Family and Friends Visitation:
Friday, May 20, 2011:
6:00 to 8:00 PM at Piney Grove Missionary Baptist Church
Condolences and expressions of sympathy may be sent to:
The Reverend & Mrs. Jimmie E. Reeves
807 Clearmont Drive
Dothan, Alabama 36301
(334) 792-5780
30. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
I am saddened to announce the homegoing of brother Fred Staples III, the husband of the Reverend Sharon Staples, pastor of Unity Temple AME Church of Chicago Illinois. Brother Staples passed on Friday, May 13, 2011 following a brief illness. He is now resting from his earthly labors and we believe he is in peace with our Lord. Please keep the family in your prayers.
Mr. Staples will lie in state on Friday the 20th of May from 3:00 pm to 7:00 pm at the Stamps Funeral Home located at 10834 South Michigan Avenue, Chicago Illinois.
The family hour is at 10:00 am and the funeral service at 11:00 am on Saturday, May 21, 2011 at the Mayo African Methodist Episcopal Church, 20839 Homeland Road, Matteson Illinois where the Reverend Francis Senyah is pastor.
Condolences may be directed to his wife, the Reverend Sharon Staples, 813 Bowling Green Drive, Homewood, Illinois 60430 or emailed to:
shasha1200@comcast.net
Funeral Arrangements are entrusted to:
The Reverend Thomas M. Hughes, Funeral Director
Assisted by the Stamps Funeral Home
10834 South Michigan Avenue
Chicago, Illinois 60628
31. 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
Web page: http://www.amecfic.org/
Phone: (615) 837-9736 (H)
Phone: (615) 833-6936 (O)
Cell: (615) 403-7751
BLOG: http://ameccfic.blogspot.com/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/AMEC_CFIC
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/The-AME-Church-Clergy-Family-Information-Center/167202414220
32. CONDOLENCES TO THE BEREAVED FROM THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER:
The Chair of the Commission on Publications, the Right Reverend Richard Franklin Norris; 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.
Did someone you know pass this copy of The Christian Recorder to you? Get your own copy HERE
