Bishop Richard Franklin Norris - Chair, Commission on Publications
The Reverend Dr. Johnny Barbour, Jr., Publisher
The Reverend Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III, the 20th Editor, The Christian Recorder – Since 1852
The Reverend Dr. Johnny Barbour, Jr., Publisher
The Reverend Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III, the 20th Editor, The Christian Recorder – Since 1852
SUMMER 2011 CONNECTIONAL MEETINGS:
- Connectional Lay Organization 32nd Biennial Convention
August 12 - 18, 2011
Marriott-Renaissance Center
Detroit, MI
The date of the Candidates Forum will be held on Monday, August 15th from 4:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.
August 12 - 18, 2011
Marriott-Renaissance Center
Detroit, MI
The date of the Candidates Forum will be held on Monday, August 15th from 4:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.
1. EDITORIAL – THE MONEY IN THE OFFERING PLATE IS OUR SACRIFICE AND OUR GIFT TO GOD:
Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III
The 20th Editor of The Christian Recorder
Some people lament that churches are always begging for money and people complain that that we spend too much money.
Some churches members give their offerings based upon their approval or disapproval of their local church’s ministry programs or how much they like or dislike the pastor.
Congregations have even threatened not to pay their assessments if the bishop didn’t transfer a pastor. Congregations have approached bishops with the threat that if the bishop moved a much-loved pastor they would withhold paying their assessments. Some of us have heard of local churches that have backed up their threats by not paying their assessments; and in some cases to avoid embarrassment, the pastor had to pay the assessment out of his or her own resources. In other cases, pastors have gone to their annual conferences with the embarrassment of not paying the assessments.
Pastors are intimidated with financial threats too. If the pastor is well-liked by the power-brokers in the congregation, the pastor might receive generous Christmas, birthday and other gifts of appreciation. If a pastor is not well-liked or if there is contention in the congregation, the pastor might receive little or no significant financial gifts. People use money in various ways, and sometimes in unhealthy means.
Some church members are inconsistent givers because they misunderstand the concept of offering and what giving is all about.
Church money is not immune from misuse and is often used to intimidate. Sometimes the intimidation is verbal, but most often the intimidation is unspoken. Whether the intimidation is spoken or unspoken, everyone gets the message.
Churches are in this position because the clergy has not done a good job of teaching about the worship of giving and churches have not been good examples of defining and modeling the concept of giving.
Even at connectional meetings, when we should be modeling the best of African Methodism, we fall far short of that goal, especially in receiving our gifts of offering to God. The call for the offering is focused upon how much we want people to give and statements are made about what we are going to do with the monies collected. And statements are made like, “We want all who can to give $100 (or $50, $20 or whatever) and we are going to present what we raise to a needy charity (and it’s a needy charity and in years past money was taken up for Katrina, Haiti, and other overseas entities that needed support).” The issue is not the legitimacy of who receives the gifts, the problem is the perception of the use of the gifts and those perceptions; real or imagined, gives people a rationale for not giving.
In local churches, pastors give a spiel about giving and the importance of tithing and how the finances of the church would be solved if everyone tithed, sometimes implying that parishioners will miss blessings if they don’t tithe. Some pastors go on to explain that the utility bills and other expenses are pressing hard on the church and they explain that the church has to pay its bills and meet its payroll. Sometimes, the focus is on parishioners paying their church dues. Some organizations in churches ask their members for dues as secular organizations do.
On both the connectional and local church levels, the collection of money is just that, a collection of money; and the result is that our stewardship program is presented in secular language.
The collection of money in the church becomes a secular activity instead of a spiritual act of worship. We use secular language and use secular methods of stewardship and then complain when the response of the parishioners is secular; without any inkling of religion or spirituality. We use the term “collection” instead of “offering.” We ask parishioners to pay their “dues” instead of making their “offering to God.” We invite those who attend our church to become members and we treat those who attend our church as “members” instead of as “disciples.”
The mindset our many of our parishioners and clergy is that our weekly collection is for the temporal affairs of the church, i.e., the upkeep of the building, salaries, connectional budget, and we have all heard the phrase, “…for the upkeep of the Kingdom of God”; and that is as close as we get to the “spiritual.”
But instead of leaving the appeal there, many preachers then descend to the micro-level and talk about how the money is going to be used to pay the bills of the church. In the spirit of transparency, many pastors emphasize the amount of money needed, what it’s for, and what we are going to do with it. In other words, we set up the scenario for people to use money “as tools against us” because we fail to emphasize that our offerings are our gifts to God, period!
Now, we know that bills have to be paid and salaries have to be paid, and in the words of the Apostle Paul, “a servant is worthy of his (or her) hire.” That’s a given. The intermediate use of the gifts should not be the focus of the appeal; the focus of the appeal should be the ultimate use of the gifts as in our offering to God in support of God’s program.
My point is the appeal should be macro rather than micro. The program of the local church is God’s program, not the pastor’s program or the people’s program. Pastors should refrain from saying, “My Church...” It’s God’s church or “Our church.”
The appeal for the offering, as most churches explain it, opens the door for parishioners to give as little or as much as they want; and when they are in disagreement with the pastor or the local church, they feel justified in withholding or cutting back on their giving.
If parishioners want to reward the pastor or the local church, they give more; if they want to punish, they give less.
In connectional meetings if the people are asked for $100, some will rationalize and give less, or not at all. In a large assembly, people can “dodge collections”; men’s room, the women’s room, and the hallways are great places to “dodge the collection.”
To God!
The focus of offerings during worship should be focused as our sacrifice to God; and pastors and local church officers must have the courage to believe and teach the concept that the offerings people give are our gifts to God in support of God’s program and to precipitate the cultural shift, when parishioners withhold their offering, they need to know that they are withholding their gifts from God. And if that’s what they want to do, so be it.
The context
I don’t mean to preach, but in I Samuel 8, the elders of Israel asked Samuel to appoint a king over them. Their request displeased Samuel and I am sure that he felt rejected. The text said that he prayed to God and God responded to Samuel, “It is not you they have rejected, but they have rejected me as their king.”
When people withhold their offering, it is not the pastor they are rejecting; they are rejecting God. So, the appeal for offerings should be put in that context. And, that’s another reason the collected offerings should be placed on the altar; and on the first Sunday, when the Holy Communion occupies all of the space on the altar, the offerings should be placed somewhere within the chancel area; not on some table off to the side.
Our offerings to God are not “dues”
Even with the Church’s justification of tithing, the text in Malachi, Chapter 2 stresses the notion of people giving their tithes and offerings to God and the appeal for people to return to God. It’s a “God – people” relationship; not a “prophet- people” relationship; and not a “physical institution – people” relationship. During worship, any appeal for the people to present their offerings, should be “God - people” focused.
Pardon my English, but it ain’t no “I like the preacher or I like the programs of the church; and that’s why I support the church with my money” because, if the “pastor – people” or the “church program – people” relationship deteriorates, so does the giving.
The offering, in worship, is a “God- people” relationship that should have nothing to do with how parishioners “feel” about the pastor or the pastoral program. Giving is a spiritual activity, not a “how we feel” activity.
The offering plates bear our sacrifices, and should be treated as holy. The offering plates should not be called, “collection plates.”
The offering plates hold that which is dedicated and presented to God and we consecrate that which we give to God by singing, “All Things Come of Thee, O Lord; and of Thine own have we given Thee. Amen.”
The money in the offering plate is our sacrifice and our gift to God.
2. READER RESPONSE TO EDITORIAL AND OTHER ISSUES:
- To the Editor:
RE: Editorial – Some More Good News and Bad News
I have enjoyed The Christian Recorder since I was a child I admit I used to read it for the pictures, but as I grew older read it for the articles and now I look forward to reading your articles and opinions (though we don't always agree).
Now then editorial about the pastor reading The Final Call has me a bit alarmed, to say the least. I am a pastor under 40 and I am open to diverse reading but never have I lost my footing. I am appalled that an AME pastor would place other materials over AME material.
So I say, please don't categorize all of the "Joshua generation" like this.
Thank You
Abdue L. Knox
3. BREAKING NEWS FROM THE WORLD METHODIST COUNCIL IN DURBAN, SOUTH AFRICA:
- Bishop Sarah F. Davis, Presiding Prelate of the 16th Episcopal District has been elected Vice-President of the World Methodist Council.
- Mr. John Thomas, III has been elected the Youth and Young Adult Coordinator for the World Methodist Council.
Submitted by Bishop John F. White, Ecumenical & Urban Affairs Officer & Endorsing Agent for the African Methodist Episcopal Church
4. IMPORTANT REMINDER FROM SUPERVISOR STAN MCKENZIE, 13TH EPISCOPAL SUPERVISOR:
– Check on the senior citizens in your congregation and in your community
“Please call on the older members in your church and in your neighborhood. You might even want to stop by with cold bottled water during these extremely hot and humid days. Don't assume everybody is okay. Check on your senior citizens and take care of yourselves as well. Drink lots of water. This is an opportunity for missionary responsibility in our communities. Be a blessing today and the rest of the summer until we are out of this hot weather pattern.”
This is an important reminder because people have died in their homes as a result of the extreme heat.
5. THE CLICHÉ-DRIVEN MORNING WORSHIP EXPERIENCE:
*Dr. Wayman B. Shiver, Jr.
Many of us attend Sunday Morning Worship Service because of long-standing family tradition. Other regular churchgoers attend church because they regard themselves as devout Christians and thirst for the preached Word. For the most part, churchgoers at the very least, expect the preached Word to be based on sound theological principles that can be readily referenced in the Bible.
Although fully open to Bible instruction and expecting an inspiring and a thought-provoking sermon, we frequently hear dramatic recitations of time worn clichés. Often the clichés are uttered, void of any particular context and are not necessarily related to the announced text and subject of the sermon. Increasingly many of our “Black Churches” are becoming cliché driven.
Parishioners can frequently forecast the type of sermon in store by the number of impassioned clichés uttered at the beginning of a service and during the introductory remarks made prior to the announcement of a text and subject of the forthcoming sermon.
Frequently we hear “God is good all the time.” The audience is expected to answer “All the time God is good.” Some preachers start by proclaiming “I am blessed by the best and too blessed to be stressed.” Lay people as well as preachers often begin by saying “Giving honor to God who is the head of my life.” This cliché might be followed by a dramatic “I can’t loose with the stuff I use.”
Clichés can be heard throughout a worship service. Presumably, such clichés are meant to enhance the worship experience and to elicit lively participation from unresponsive audiences. Often, the drama detracts from the message of the preached Word that reaches the mind as well the heart of the listener.
“Be blessed my brother” because “You are healed by His stripes.” Now we are ready to receive the preached Word. Often, clichés are stated with such authority that listeners believe that they may indeed be grounded in the Holy Scriptures.
A cliché is often a trite or over used truism. Further, a cliché may be a platitude, a slogan or a saying that is so commonly used that it is accepted as unalterable truth. In fact a cliché is seldom grounded in scripture and has no power or authority when it stands alone without an appropriate context. Even in context, a cliché lacks the desired force and authority.
Churchgoers, out of respect for intelligence, ought to be able to hear Biblically based messages as a matter of course. We understand that God’s Word needs to be related to our daily lives and should speak to the challenges of daily living. Yet, the medium should not overshadow the Word itself. Our churches probably will not grow unless attendees can be assured that the preached Word speaks to the people’s needs including appealing to the intellect. The heart and the soul need to be touched: however, thought provoking messages are needed to help parishioners cope with life’s challenges.
From this writer’s perspective a sermon is a message from God detailing the will of God. A sermon makes known “the manifold wisdom of God.” (Ephesians 3:10) Further, a sermon seeks to bring understanding of the awesome power of God. Clichés delivered dramatically and forcefully are not God’s Word and should not be used as substitutes for theological discourse.
*Dr. Wayman B. Shiver, Jr. is the President, North West Alabama Conference Lay Organization and Member, General Board of the AME Church
6. BROTHER REUBEN SALTERS OF MOUNT ZION A.M.E. CHURCH AWARDED THE “ORDER OF THE FIRST STATE” BY DELAWARE GOVERNOR JACK MARKELL:
On Sunday, June 5, 2011, before a packed congregation at Mount Zion A.M.E. Church in Dover, Delaware’s Governor Jack Markell presented Brother Reuben Salters with the “Order of the First State”, the highest honor a governor can bestow on an individual.
Among the dignitaries in attendance at the ceremony were US Senators Thomas Carper and Chris Coons, US Representative John Carney, former Delaware State University President, William B. DeLauder and Dover’s Mayor, Carleton E. Carey. Senator Coons and U.S. Rep. John Carney both read tributes that will be recorded in the Congressional Record. The Mount Zion Church Family, under the leadership of the Rev. Ellis Louden, joined in the celebration.
A member of Mount Zion A.M.E. Church for over 40 years and Dover City Council for 22 years, Brother Salters, a retired US Air Force Officer, has dedicated his life to his family, his church, community youth, his city, and his nation.
A devout Christian and community activist, Brother Salters has made his mark on the State of Delaware and surrounding areas. People in Delaware applause his outstanding work in the community, especially his unwavering support of the youth. He is the founder and leader of the Sankofa African Dance Company, a performing troupe of youth ages 8 – 18 who provide artistic entertainment at various events throughout the State of Delaware and Mid-Atlantic Region.
Brother Salters is also the founder of the annual African American Festival “Positively Dover” which recently celebrated its 21st year. One of the biggest events in the State of Delaware, the festival has attracted over 20,000 visitors yearly to historic downtown Dover.
Brother Salters is the founder of the Inner City Cultural League, Inc. (ICCL). The ICCL is a nonprofit volunteer-driven organization dedicated to creating and promoting awareness of the arts, highlighting the cultural and historical imagery of African American contributions to Delaware and our nation, and providing excellent artistic programming. By so doing, Brother Salters believes we can enhance the quality of life for all area youth and their families, encourage youth to accept health, social, academic and civic responsibilities and serve as a cultural catalyst for the community. Brother Salters has worked diligently to raise funds to build a Cultural Arts Center in the inner city of Dover.
Plans are underway for a major fundraiser on September 10, 2011 where a Flower Pageant & Banquet hosted by Mount Zion’s Commission on Missions and Welfare is expected to raise funds to help with the building project. Financial donations may be sent to Mt. Zion, 101 N. Queen Street, Dover, Delaware 19904 in support of this building initiative.
With God’s help, supportive wife and family, friends and a dynamic Executive Board, Brother Salters’ goal to construct the Inner City Cultural Arts Center which is scheduled for completion in Fall of 2012.
7. A RAINBOW EXPERIENCE:
I attended the 17th Quadrennial Convention of the Women’s Missionary Society of the African Methodist Episcopal Church in Orlando Florida that was hosted by the 11th Episcopal District, Bishop McKinley Young and Supervisor Dorothy Young; Bishop James L. Davis, Commission Chair, Global Witness and Ministry; and Dr. George F. Flowers, Executive Director, Global Witness and Ministry.
In my opinion, Dr. Shirley Hopkins Davis, President of the Connectional Women’s Missionary Society demonstrated excellent leadership while conducting the sessions that I’d witnessed and made me proud to be an AME.
What a wonderful experience to see hundreds of soul-sisters under one roof on one accord.
When people say “everyone has a twin” it is so true. I saw people in Orange County Florida that I have seen elsewhere in the world, and it was not that person. While attending the event I had the humbling experience of sitting at the table with some sisters from the First Episcopal District who tickled my soul.
In addition in attending the Women’s Missionary Society Convention I was able to meet other powerful women in other Episcopal Districts as well. There were several images that are left in my mind in attending the Quadrennial: scooters, white dresses and lots of bright color clothing; and yes, egg omelets with shrimp.
The missionaries of the various episcopal districts were decked out in their assigned array of colors. In addition, the opportunity to see the Bishops of the African Methodist Episcopal Church is always a wonderful sight to see as they march with such poise and show great confidence of our Zion.
I recall after one of the business session of the Women’s Missionary Society Convention an appeal was made by one of our bishops for the challenges of the Morris Brown College; and those who heard the cry responded. What a wonderful experience to see this Branch of the African Methodist Episcopal Church in action.
Another great thing to note is the presence of the Episcopal Supervisors of the different Episcopal District holding their own and to hear and read the reports of the accomplishments made by our Episcopal Supervisors and its members in the last four years should make all of our Episcopal Districts proud. It was a wonderful experience to hear the chants of the African delegations it was something to behold after making their reports. For me, after my African sisters chanted the memories of our fore parents illuminated the atmosphere. Not only was it a moving experiencing after the African delegation gave their reports, but Districts 14 through 20 provided praise and worship during one of the sessions and it stirred the souls of the attendees.
This rainbow experience at the 17th Quadrennial Convention of the Women’s Missionary Society will allow me to take the splashes of color in my ministry to continue to do kingdom building.
Thank you Women’s Missionary Society for the opportunity to mingle amongst you.
The Rev. Eraina M. Ross-Aseme, Candidate for Bishop of the African Methodist Episcopal Church
8. NEWS FROM THE WMS MISSIONARY SOCIETY:
Mrs. Shirley Reed elected President of the Women’s Missionary Society. The new President is the wife of the Reverend Rodger Hall Reed.
Mrs. Ida Tyree Hyche, Esq. Editor of The Women's Missionary Society Magazine
Sister PJ of the 18th Episcopal District has being elected Associate Editor
Sister Membe from Africa has been elected as the 3rd Vice-President
Other persons elected will be released as soon as it is received.
9. WE SHOULD ALREADY HAVE 10,000 SIGNATURES FOR THE RICHARD ALLEN POSTAGE STAMP PETITION:
We could and should have gotten close to 5000 signatures from the YPD / WMS Quadrennial Convention in Orlando.
We should easily pick up close to 5000 at the Connectional Lay Organization Meeting in Detroit.
We should be ready to draw this initiative to a close! Finished! Done! Mission Accomplished!
Mail signed petitions to:
Bishop Carolyn Tyler Guidry
The Eighth Episcopal District - AME Church
5450 Executive Place
Jackson, MS 39206
Telephone: 601.366-8240
FAX: 601.366-8175
10. ANNUAL MEN'S DAY AT ST JOHN AME CHURCH WILL BE CELEBRATED ON AUGUST 14, 2011:
The St. John AME Church, 210 West Clinton Street, Frankfort, Kentucky will host its' Annual Men's Day on Sunday, August 14, 2011 at the 11:00 am morning service. The Men's Day Choir will be under the direction of Charles F. Little, Jr. and the guest speaker for the morning service will be the Rev. Alvin W. Farris, Pastor of the Elizabeth Baptist Church of Richmond, KY. Dinner will be served immediately after morning service. The Rev. Jermaine L. Wilson is host pastor.
Submitted by Penny McClain
11. PROGRESSIVE NATIONAL BAPTIST CONVENTION INITIATES CROSS-DENOMINATIONAL FELLOWSHIP DURING 50TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION:
Historic Gathering of Presidents in Nation’s Capital Progressive National Baptist Convention initiates cross-denominational fellowship during 50th Anniversary Celebration August 7-12.
Washington, August 4, 2011 -- Highlighting the fiftieth anniversary celebration of the Progressive National Baptist Convention, President Obama is the scheduled keynote speaker August 10 at a black-tie gala honoring the leaders of more than a dozen African American religious organizations.
The gathering also will celebrate a first-of-its-kind fellowship among African American religious denominations.
“I have always had strong personal friendships and fellowships across denominational lines,” said PNBC president, Dr. Carroll A. Baltimore, Sr. “To draw these leaders together in a more formal coalition is a blessing and a dream-come-true for me. We are honored that these powerful and anointed men of God are taking time from their extraordinarily busy schedules to join us.”
The PNBC, currently including more than 2,000 churches and 2.5 million believers globally, split from the National Baptist Convention USA in 1961 to provide the denominational home for Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and other leaders of the Civil Rights movement.
Some 5,000 delegates are expected to attend the 50th Anniversary Annual Session August 7-12 at the Washington Marriott Wardman Park in Washington DC. The week’s activities include workshops, worship services and a special guest appearance by gospel recording artist Tye Tribbett.
The Rev. Dr. Michael Kinnamon, General Secretary of the National Council of Churches, will bring greetings from the NCC's 37 member communions on August 11.
The overall theme of the convention, “Securing Our Future: Humility – A People of Fellowship,” along with the historic gathering of religious leaders is the first of myriad initiatives expected under Dr. Baltimore’s leadership. He was elected to a four-year term as PNBC’s 19th president in August 2010.
“As we celebrate our own history, we celebrate also the work of other denominations that stood at the forefront of political and social justice issues and that remain the foundation and centerpiece of the African American community,” Dr. Baltimore said. “What better way to commemorate our presence as part of the rich history and landscape of this country than by coming together in the nation’s capital where a Black man sits as President of the United States?”
For further information about the PNBC and the 50th Anniversary Annual Session, visit www.pnbc50.org.
12. GREGORY LEE ELECTED AS 19TH PRESIDENT OF NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF BLACK JOURNALISTS:
- Errin Haines Elected Vice President of Print, Cindy George Elected Parliamentarian
- Student Representative Race Tied, Run-off Election in a Few Weeks
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania (August 6, 2011)--The National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ) today announced that Gregory Lee, Jr. has been elected the 19th President of the organization.
Lee, the Senior Assistant Sports Editor at The Boston Globe and the current NABJ Treasurer, won the election with 294 votes, 57% of the vote, defeating opponent Deirdre Childress of The Philadelphia Inquirer who received 168 votes. Charles Robinson of Maryland Public Television received 50 votes.
Born in New Orleans, LA, Lee is the eldest of three children. The 37 year-old is the youngest elected president of the 3,400 member organization. He has also worked for the The Times-Picayune and The Washington Post. During his career in NABJ Lee served for four years as the national secretary and has also served an unprecedented four terms as chair of the Sports Journalism Task Force.
The election results were announced at a 7:00 p.m. press conference yesterday following the closing of the polls at the Philadelphia Convention Center, site of the 2011 NABJ Annual Convention and Career Fair. 515 votes were cast by eligible NABJ members in this year's election, conducted online between June 3 and 5 p.m. yesterday.
"It is both a privilege and an honor to have been elected to lead NABJ and I stand ready to continue to serve. There is a lot of work to be done," Lee told a packed room at the Philadelphia Convention Center in downtown Philadelphia once the election results were announced, joined by his parents and brother. "I'm so very honored and humbled by this awesome responsibility that I have with my team for the next two years," said Lee.
A total of 13 board members were chosen by the membership to lead the organization for the next two years. Board members elected in uncontested races include Treasurer-elect Keith Reed, Secretary-elect Lisa Cox, Region III Director-elect Dedrick Russell, Region IV Director-elect AJ Ross, Region VI Director-elect Michelle Fitzhugh-Craig and Associate Representative- elect Dawn Angelique Roberts.
Winning elections in contested races were newly elected Vice President of Print Errin Haines of The Associated Press defeating freelance reporter Denise Clay 280- 209, and newly elected Parliamentarian Cindy George of The Houston Chronicle, who defeated Ken Knight of The Tampa Tribune by 10 votes, 244-234, with 37 abstentions.
The race for student representative resulted in a tie between Wesley Lowery of Ohio University, and Marissa Evans of Marquette University, each receiving 69 votes. The student candidates will have a week-long run-off election August 15- 22.
13. GENERAL OFFICER FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
The passing of Mrs. Doris Cobb Reid, widow of the late Dr. Robert H. Reid Jr., retired General Officer, the 18th Editor of The Christian Recorder
The Obituary for Doris Cobb Reid:
Doris Bernice Cobb Reid was born on April 30, 1920 in Springer, Oklahoma to Fleetwood Cobb and Evangelist Mamie Wilson Cobb. At the age of 2, Doris moved with her family to Imperial Valley, California, and then, at age 6, to San Diego, California. Doris attended Stockton Elementary, Memorial Jr. High, and graduated early from San Diego High School.
Doris Reid graduated from Wilberforce University, Magna Cum Laude, with a bachelor's degree as an English major and Spanish minor, and was named the Outstanding Student in both the English and Spanish Departments. She later continued advanced studies at UCLA.
In 1954, at a Wilberforce University Alumni meeting, Doris met Rev. Robert H. Reid, Jr., the alumni President. Doris and Robert married January 14, 1955 in Columbus, Ohio and celebrated their 56th wedding anniversary this year.
Ministering alongside her husband, Doris Cobb Reid, also, held professional positions including teaching at Aenon Bible College in Columbus, Ohio; Case Worker for the Public Assistance Office in Duquesne, Pa; and, Director of the Office of Economic Opportunity for the City of Duquesne. Later, she retired as Office Manager for The Christian Recorder, where she assisted her husband, Rev. Robert H. Reid, Jr., who served as Editor of The Christian Recorder, 1976-1996.
Doris Cobb Reid dedicated her life to Jesus Christ at the age of 6 and faithfully served Him until she entered eternal rest on July 30, 2011.
Doris Cobb Reid was preceded in death by her husband, Rev. Robert H. Reid, Jr., on June 1, 2011. Doris is survived by her daughter, Sheridan Reid Banks; granddaughter Lauren Reid Banks; brothers Wesley Cobb (Sue) and Hugh Cobb (June); brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nieces, and nephews.
Joint memorial services for Doris and her sister, Juanita Cobb Martin, who died several days prior, are being planned for a future date in San Diego, California.
Condolences may be sent to DorisReid730@aol.com or mailed to the family:
The Reid Family
5055 Paddock Road
Cincinnati, OH 45237
Sincere appreciation and gratitude to everyone for your continued outpouring of love, prayers and support during this difficult season following the deaths of Dad and Mom. God continues to faithfully walk me through this journey. I am blessed with a faithful Father and parents who provided wonderful spiritual legacies.
Sheridan Reid Banks
14. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
We regret to share news of the passing of the Rev. Dr. Samuel Clay Still, Sr., an outstanding member of the ministerial staff of Bethel AME Church, Hampton, Virginia. Rev. Dr. Still was also an administrator for the Hampton City Schools until he retired. Rev. Still, 74, passed on Tuesday, July 26, 2011 after a courageous battle with heart disease.
A viewing of the body was held from 6 to 8 p.m. Friday, July 29, 2011, at Cooke Brothers Funeral Chapel located at 1601- 27th St., Newport News, VA.
His homegoing celebration was held on Saturday, July 30, 2011, at Bethel AME Church located on 94 West Lincoln Street in Hampton, VA, 23669.
Online words of condolence may be placed in the Guestbook:
http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/dailypress/obituary.aspx?n=samuel-clay-still&pid=152797922
The family request, in lieu of flowers, memorials be sent to the Bethel AME Church Building fund or the United Negro College Fund.
15. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
We are saddened to announce the passing of Mr. Preston Callegari, the brother of Sister Annette Caldwell and the brother-in-law of Presiding Elder Darrell Caldwell, North Texas Conference-Tyler District.
A Viewing will be held for Mr. Preston Callegari, Saturday, August 6, 2011 from 9A.M.-11 A.M. at St. James Baptist Church in Houston, Texas.
Brother Callegari's Homegoing Celebration will be held Saturday, August 6, 2011 at 11:00 A.M. at St. James Baptist Church, Houston, Texas.
St. James Baptist Church
3407 Bellfort Street
Houston, Texas 77051
Ph: (713) 734-4172
Mr. Callegari's final earthly care has been entrusted to:
Frazier/Mitchell Funeral Services
5002 Hersche Street
Houston, Texas 77020
Ph: (713) 673-3672
Condolences may be sent to:
Presiding Elder Darrell & Mrs. Annette Caldwell
8609 Huntington Drive
Rowlett, Texas 75089
Phone: (214) 435-4660
16. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
Mr. Jeremiah Capers, the beloved husband of the Reverend Regenia Capers, Local Elder of Mt. Pisgah AME Church, Ridgeville, South Carolina, passed triumphantly from labor to reward on Monday, August 1, 2011. Mr. Capers was a lifelong member of Mt. Pisgah AME Church and was the loving father of seven children, two of whom are Ministers; the Reverend Barbara Chisolm, Presiding Elder, Wateree District, Central Conference, 7th Episcopal District, and the Reverend Johnnie Capers, Pastor of Favor Ministry. The Pringletown community has lost a friend and a humble spirit. Please keep the Reverend Capers and family, her church family, and community family in your prayers.
Homegoing Services will be held:
Saturday, August 6, 2011 at 11:00 AM
House of God Keith Dominion
Highway 27 (2nd church on left coming from I-26) or right hand side coming from Holly Hill or Moncks Corner, SC.
Ridgeville, SC 29472
843- 688-5550
Elder Ronald Whitmore, Pastor
Professional Services Entrusted to:
Shuler Marshall Funeral Services Inc.
Holly Hill, SC
(803) 496-3716
Interment will occur immediately after service at
Shuler Cemetery
Highway 27
Ridgeville, SC 29472
Expressions of sympathy and condolences may be sent to:
The Reverend Regenia Capers
P.O. Box 73
Ridgeville, SC 29472
Or
The Reverend Barbara Chisolm
102 Telscombe Court
Summerville, SC 29485
843-276-6858
17. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
Mrs. Fannie Thompkins Hall Adams, the beloved 92-year-old mother of the Reverend Augusta H. Hall (Pastor of Flipper Temple AME Church/Atlanta, Georgia) passed triumphantly from labor to reward on Tuesday, August 2, 2011. Distinguished educator, civic leader, and church activist, Mrs. Hall inspired her elementary school students to be persons of intellect, achievement and responsibility.
Mrs. Adams was a lifelong active member of Bethel AME Church of the Augusta Georgia Annual Conference (Pastor Mark Pierson), within the Augusta Athens District (Presiding Elder Ella Mae Samuels). Please keep Reverend Hall & family, her church family, and the SED family in your prayers during this time.
Homegoing Services will be held:
Monday, August 8, 2011 at 11:00 AM
Bethel A.M.E. Church
623 Crawford Avenue
Augusta, GA 30903
Telephone: 706-736-4060
FAX: 706-736-0083
The Reverend Mark Pierson, pastor and eulogist
Professional Services Entrusted to:
Williams Funeral Home
1765 Martin Luther King Boulevard
Augusta, GA 30901
Telephone: (706) 722-5551
Fax: (706) 722-8999
Interment will occur immediately after service:
Cedar Grove Cemetery
120 Watkins St
Augusta, GA 30901
(706) 821-1748
Expressions of sympathy and condolences may be sent to:
The Reverend Augusta H. Hall
1078 Cherry Laurel Drive
Lithonia, GA 30058
18. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
We are saddened to announce the passing of Mr. John Patrick Daughtry, the son of the Rev. and Mrs. L. R. Daughtry. Rev. Daughtry is the pastor of Campbell's Chapel AME Church in Carrollton, Virginia. Mr. Daughtry passed on August 2, 2011.
The following arrangements have been made for the Homegoing Celebration of Mr. John Daughtry:
Homegoing Service:
Saturday, August 6, 2011 at 12:00 Noon
Union Baptist Church
4608 South Boulevard
Virginia Beach, Virginia 23452-1003
The funeral arrangements:
Pretlow & Sons Funeral Home
500 Liberty Street
Chesapeake, Virginia 23324
Phone: (757) 543-9343
Condolences may be sent to:
The Rev. L. R. Daughtry
3817 Windsor Woods Blvd.
Virginia Beach, VA 23452
Online Guest Book:
http://www.pretlowandsons.com/fh/obituaries/obituary.cfm?o_id=1226718&fh_id=11160
19. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
We regret to announce the passing of Deacon Claude Edward Bryant, the father of the Rev. Stephen Edward Bryant, pastor of St. Mark AME Church in Cranford, New Jersey (New Brunswick District, New Jersey Annual Conference).
The following information has been provided regarding funeral arrangements.
Wednesday, August 3, 2011
Viewing - 8:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m.
Funeral - 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 noon
Church of God in Christ Temple
405 Communipaw Avenue
Jersey City, NJ 07304
Phone: 201-433-8367
Fax: 908-925-3973
Email: bstrategiced@aol.com
Elder Eddie Williams, Pastor
Interment at the Rosedale Cemetery
355 Linden Avenue
Linden, NJ 07036
908-862-4990
Expressions of Sympathy can be sent to:
Mrs. Cynthia L. Bryant
1181 Main Street, Apt., 7G
Rahway, New Jersey 07065
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
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
21. 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.
