THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER ONLINE ENGLISH EDITION (9/3/11)

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

September is Prostate Cancer Awareness Month

The U.S. reverts to Standard Time on November 6, 2011

Thought for the Week!

"Whether you think you can, or think you can't...you're right."
"A pessimist sees the difficulty in every opportunity; an optimist sees the
opportunity in every difficulty"

Editor's Note: You do not need a computer to send and receive email or to access the Internet; you just need a smart phone.

1. EDITORIAL – THE CHURCH MUST CONFRONT A CULTURE OF LAZINESS, IRRESPONSIBILITY AND SELFISHNESS:

Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III
The 20th Editor of The Christian Recorder


I read a news story in the newspaper about Prime Minister David Cameron’s thoughts about the 2011 summer riots in Great Britain. He went on to say, “Britain must confront a culture of laziness, irresponsibility and selfishness that fueled four days of riots.” I thought about the United States and about negative news accounts that I had read about events in Somalia and other places. I thought Prime Minister David Cameron’s comments about the “culture of laziness, irresponsibility and selfishness” are applicable to the United States; and probably applicable to every other country around the world.

Then I thought…

Don’t go there!

And then I wondered if the same phenomenon of the “culture of laziness, irresponsibility and selfishness” has infected churches. It seems that many denominations are abandoning the biblical precepts of right and wrong. Even, some conservative denominations are debating the existence of Adam and Eve, salvation, the authenticity of the Bible. Biblical principles, which used to be sacrosanct, are no longer sacred. The biblical authority of the Word of God does not seem to concern people. Even in the Roman Catholic Church, priests and nuns openly question the decisions of the archbishops, bishops, and even the Pope.

I wonder if the same phenomenon of the “culture of laziness, irresponsibility and selfishness”; and other maladies has contaminated the church universal, also known as the holy catholic church.

I am going there, but I want to go here first

I wonder of the phenomenon of the “culture of laziness, irresponsibility and selfishness”; and other maladies have contaminated some in the African American community. Poverty does things to people and the African American community has its share of poverty. A lack of education is the quickest route to poverty. In many of the African American communities, we are only a “cop-beating” away from the kinds of rioting that happened in Great Britain.

Often on Sunday mornings I arrive at church feeling a little down because driving to church I pass by “majority” churches whose parking lots are full and they seem to be bursting at the seams. And then I arrive in the “hood” and our churches are struggling and I see unchurched young people and adults hanging out. They seem to be a lost generation. The church provides feeding programs, outreach ministry, health fairs, and revivals; some people participate, but it just seems that in many of our communities we have lost a level of “faithfulness and commitment…” Parents have a responsibility and I wonder if we have reverted to a “culture of laziness, irresponsibility and selfishness.”

I know that you are not going there!

As I was reading the article, I wondered whether the African Methodist Episcopal Church has experienced some of the phenomena of the “culture of laziness, irresponsibility and selfishness”; and other social and religious maladies.

Prime Minister David Cameron, in the same speech, talked about the need to reverse the “slow-motion moral collapse” taking place in Britain. It caused me to wonder if, we in the AME Church need to reverse any “slow-motion moral collapse” that might be engulfing us.

I wonder if churches, in general, are in a “slow-motion moral collapse.” Moral disintegration, individually or collectively doesn’t happen overnight; moral failure happens over a period of time; most often gradually.

For example, marital infidelity does not start with adultery; it starts with a touch, a wink, a comment, and maybe with a bit of humor; sometimes innocently, and sometimes, unintentionally.

Churches are open to moral failure when they ignore biblical principles, overlook unethical behavior, abandon the moral high-ground, cease to stand for what is right, discard ethical and moral principles, refuse to follow its own rules and regulations, accept the standards and characteristics of the secular world; and fail to understand their biblical, theological and denominational underpinnings.

Churches have to stand for something. Baptist churches are big on baptism by immersion, closed communion, and some are reluctant to recognize women in ministry. Roman Catholic Churches are highly liturgical and it requires its priests in the United States to be celibate. Missouri Synod Lutheran Churches are theologically conservative. Pentecostal churches are conservative; speak in tongues as evidence of the presence of the Holy Spirit. Independent Churches of Christ do not use musical instruments in their worship services. The Episcopal Church is highly liturgical and celebrates the Eucharist every Sunday. The United Methodist Church is characterized by its Arminian theology with an emphasis on the work of the Holy Spirit to bring holiness into the lives of those who seek to be followers of Christ. Apostolic Pentecostals rejects the Trinity and instead embrace the anti-Trinitarian doctrine of “Oneness Theology.” Bishop T.D. Jakes, and denominations that have “Apostolic” as a part of its name, embrace “Oneness Theology.”

So, whether we agree or disagree with other denominations, at least we know, generally know their fundamental beliefs.


I am “going there!”

I wonder if the AME Church is in a “slow-motion moral collapse” or in a “culture of laziness, irresponsibility and selfishness” and do people, especially our members, know what we stand for and know our fundamental beliefs. What would be your response if someone asks you “What is the African Methodist Episcopal Church and what are the AME Church’s core beliefs?” Most often what I have heard and I have even responded myself when asked that question by explaining that we are a Methodist denomination founded by Richard Allen and that “African” remains in our name because our founder and early leaders were men and women of African descent; we are Methodist by doctrine; and we have an episcopal form of governance and thus we are African Methodist Episcopal.

I wonder if we really know who we are; and if we don’t know who and whose we are, we just might be headed to a “slow-motion moral collapse” and we might be experiencing a “culture of laziness, irresponsibility and selfishness.” Are we more excited about the politics of the Church than we are about the biblical and theological foundations of the Church?

Are we teaching our people about the foundations of our Zion? I get a queasy feeling in my gut when I hear people quote, “Faith without works is dead” because I get a notion that they might not understand prevenient grace and might be taking James 2:17 out of context.

For instance, are we careful and diligent in teaching people that salvation comes through faith in Jesus Christ, not by any other acts of redemption (getting something in return for something) such as good deeds? Salvation is a gift from God. Do we understand the notion of prevenient grace; that it is the available gift of God, which precedes human decision? Prevenient grace allows us to choose the salvation that God offers us through Christ Jesus. And there are other core beliefs in Methodism such as the Trinity, Baptism, Holy Communion, Free Will, sin, salvation, and our responsibility to evangelize the world.

Are our pastors preaching and teaching the difficult biblical passages and are we, as a denomination, forthright in preaching and teaching about what is right and what is wrong. Have our pulpits become desks of timidity. Are we, as a denomination, champions of good behavior and of doing the right thing?

Evidences of a “culture of laziness, irresponsibility and selfishness”

When I visit churches that need serious maintenance update, I wonder if we are succumbing to a “culture of laziness, irresponsibility and selfishness.”

When a congregation allows its pastor to go to the annual conference without a full budget, I wonder if some of our churches have become infected with a “culture of laziness, irresponsibility and selfishness.”

I wonder about churches whose stewardesses and stewards are too busy to accompany the pastor when he or she visits the sick and shut-in members.

I wonder if some of our church officers have become infected with a “culture of laziness, irresponsibility and selfishness” when they fail to function in accordance with The Discipline.

I wonder about trustees who are content to let the church fall into disrepair, who won’t take the time to change a light bulb. I have visited some churches and half the light bulbs in the sanctuary were burned out and that tells me that, that church has trustees who have succumbed to a “culture of laziness, irresponsibility and selfishness.”

I wonder if choir members have become infected with a “culture of laziness, irresponsibility and selfishness” when they fail to attend choir rehearsal and show up late for worship; or fail to attend worship.

I wonder if some of our clergy have become infected with a “culture of laziness, irresponsibility and selfishness” when they become discouraged and fail to give their best ministry in “tending to the flock.” I wonder if we are experiencing a “culture of laziness, irresponsibility and selfishness” when pastors fail to develop challenging sermons. Yes, pastors can become discouraged and “weary in well-doing.”

The “culture of laziness, irresponsibility and selfishness” is exhibited in many ways. For instance, stewards are responsible for the pastor’s salary and some churches are still giving the pastor his or her check on Sunday after church. Sundays should not be a payday; that’s “old school” technology.

In churches where there is not a “culture of laziness, irresponsibility and selfishness,” the Steward Pro-tem and the Board of Stewards take the initiative to set up a program of direct-deposit to pay the pastor. Pastors should not have to stand around to wait for their paycheck like day workers; they should be about the business of the church. Pastors should be treated as professionals. Other “fulltime” local church employees should be paid by direct-deposit and treated as professionals too; and when they are treated as professionals, it’s expected that they will act like professionals.

If our Zion is going to grow, we must rid ourselves of the “culture of laziness, irresponsibility and selfishness” and rid ourselves of any semblance of “slow-motion moral collapse.”

The “fathers and mothers” of the African Methodist Episcopal Church left us a legacy of excellence. Look at the elegant structures they built, that many congregations struggle to maintain. Look at the system of ministry and administration they put in place. Read the history of the educational institutions the AME Church established. Look at the impact the AME Church and the AME clergy had on the Civil Rights’ Movement. Look at the global contributions members of the African Methodist have had upon society.

We have a proud legacy and the AME Church could not have prospered with a “culture of laziness, irresponsibility and selfishness.”

The AME Church was able to do what it did because we have had a “culture of hard work, dependability, consistency, and selflessness” - Let’s keep our Zion on the path of a “culture of hard work, dependability, consistency, and selflessness.”


2. “YOU ASK”:

Bishop Richard Allen Chappelle

- (1) “I Ask” –

I attended a dinner with some a couple of AMEs in Manhattan on Monday and one, a long-time AME, shared an account of The Decalogue at a church he attended last Sunday, and if almost anyone else had told me the story, I am not sure that I would have believed them.

He said the preacher got up and led The Decalogue, or at least my acquaintance thought it was The Decalogue. The pastor had the people to stand and sing, "From all that dwells ...” And then re-read the scripture that he had read before the preface to The Decalogue; and instead of going through any portion of The Decalogue, he read the I Corinthians 13 passage about love. - - - “Love is not puffed up ..." And then, he continued, "And he said to him, ‘You shall LOVE the Lord your God ... And the second is like it, you shall LOVE your neighbor as yourself.’" He emphasizes LOVE twice! Then, surprise of surprises! The preacher said to the congregation, "Turn to somebody, look them in the eye, and say, 'I love you'"! And, with that, he led the "Gloria Patri.". And that's how the congregation knew that they were through with The Decalogue. Some people were looking in amazement and others apparently thought it was cute.

My question: Do AME Preachers have the “license” to change The Decalogue and other parts of the worship liturgy just because they want to do so? Do pastors have anyone to provide pastoral oversight? Are preachers trained about liturgy and about AME worship? It seems that changes are taking place and no one is telling congregations why they are making changes.

James O. Davis

- Bishop Richard Allen Chappelle’s Response to the Question:

No, AME Preachers do not have license to change the Decalogue and other parts of the worship liturgy just because they want to do so. However the rubric of our worship services specifically states that there can be some substitution/additions of items.

The Book of Discipline of the African Methodist Episcopal Church 2008,
Page 483 Section I, Order of Morning Worship reads as follows: Our order of worship is intended to be flexible so as to provide for richness and variety of content. At the same time it must have unity as to insure that all members of our church will feel at home in any AME Church. For this purpose, we present a basic form of worship within which our ministers MAY MAKE (my emphasis) such ADDITIONS (my emphasis) as NEEDED FOR THEIR OWN (my emphasis) situation."

There tends to be a gross misinterpretation of "to have the option to MAKE ADDITIONS as NEEDED" (my emphasis) in at least two areas

(1) As in the narrative as stated above, you cannot substitute anything for the Ten Commandments/Decalogue; literally that is what “Decalogue” means.

In the place of the Decalogue it is permissible to have a litany or the Te Deum.

We approved the abridged and unabridged Decalogue.

The statement, “Our Ministers may make...for their own situation” is grossly misunderstood. While the pastor is the chief worship leader, he/she may have has been assigned to a pastoral charge, which has its own peculiar style of worship. The pastor is the “last word” at the local church until the quarterly conference. Pastors inherit and are nurtured an organizational structure that has a central organization called the Official Board. It would be in the best interest of the pastor and the local church if he/she would discuss/explain, get consensus on additions, deviations, etc., the pastor intends or contemplates making in the order of worship and even if he or she would like to make modifications in the some administrative procedures. The local church does not belong to the pastor; it is not his/her church, but the parishioners’ church and the pastor as the “shepherd” should have the decency and common sense not to "spring surprises" which often shows disrespect for the collective wisdom of the official church family.


- (2) “I Ask”

Over the years I have at various times been a member of the standing “Lobby Committee,” composed of both clergy and lay. At various meetings when the Committee learns that actions have been taken that it felt should not have or that actions have not been taken that it felt should have, the reaction is that “It’s the system.” How would you explain or have someone outside of African Methodism understand what is meant when we conclude with “It’s the system”?

Dr. McDonald Williams

Bishop Richard Allen Chappelle Note: I have combined Dr. McDonald Williams’ question with several questions sent in about presiding elders who require churches to provide additional funds beyond the “Annual Conference Committee on Presiding Elder Apportionment.”


Bishop Richard Allen Chappelle’s Response to the Question:

First, let me acknowledge that there are indeed influential Lobby Committees. It is however, unfortunate that this wealth of skills, knowledge and expertise seldom get to be heard in open forum. It is interesting that many members of the Lobby Committee(s) have held positions of leadership within our Zion up to and including the highest levels as elected delegates to General Conference, the Board of Incorporators, General Board, Commission members, Connectional Officers and even Episcopal, Conference and Local Church officers. Seldom if ever have we individually voiced strong and vocal opinions in forums for all to hear and respond. I would hasten to say here our lack of active involvement except in the Lobby is also "Part of the system."

The clause to which you refer "It's The System" is really not unique to African Methodism as is being implied. There is a "system" in place in every organization. Some might be more subtle, nebulous, refined or crude depending upon the makeup and nature of the institution. The system is tantamount to the process and procedure utilized and adhered to at any given time within the body politic of the entity in question. Further, functioning “systems" tend to operate utilizing Newton’s “Laws / explanations" of motion. (1) In the "system" every action or lack of action produces an equal and sometimes devastating opposite reaction (2) a body/proposal at rest be, it idea, revelation, vision, etc., shall remain at rest until acted upon by an outside force. (3) A body/act in motion, an activity involving motion shall continue to move (be espoused) until stopped by some outside force.

One of the best analogies which might help us in an understanding of "It's ‘The System’" could be found in the observation and examination of a wrist or pocket watch (with moving parts). The actions of a watch are a thing of beauty to behold. It is designed with all of its various parts calibrated to complete a specific function (to keep/measure/tell time). The watch is composed of wheels, gears, teeth, stems, springs of various shapes and sizes. Some of these parts are used only to calculate seconds; - others minutes, hours, and in the latter days even the days of the month. The placement of the various parts causes them not to move at the same pace or all in the same direction. The manner in which they have been delicately placed requires that they be somehow synchronized. The parts have been put together to perform a purpose and in the case of the watch/clock, to calculate time accurately. If perchance the watch is wound too tight or not tight enough or some of the intricate parts fail to interact or specifically touch properly there will be a malfunction of the "time keeping system." I don't know of any (mechanical) watch designed to correct itself. A master watchmaker has to correct the internal flaws of "the system."Therefore, one could surmise that a watch (the system) could be constructed which could be flawless save for the involvement of human error and or manipulation. Thus I would suggest that perhaps the reference to "It's the system" has more to do with manipulation than with human error/judgment.

I note that Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III has in recent articles done a masterful job alluding to "The System." His had a thorough discussion of the role of Presiding Elders. He highlighted some of the wheels/gears in our Presiding Elder system. If you will permit me I will try to weave three seemingly different questions into one which might better help us understand. There are several questions: (1) How does the Presiding Elder function if he/she is also a pastor of one or several churches on the District? (2) What effect could that have on morale, accountability, etc? (3) How could a Presiding Elders holding mandatory training local church officers’ session and charge a fee? (4) How could he/she hold sessions related to background checks and charge $40.00 mandatory registration? (5) This raises the legality question of charging fees and acquiring funds beyond the allocations as set by the Annual Conference Committee on Presiding Elder Apportionment.

I contend that the answer to your question being explained to someone outside African Methodism by what is meant by "It's the system," might be clarified by use of a Judicial Council truism: They refuse to hear, respond to or deal with hypothetical situations. While I have not received further documentations concerning the questions/complaints raised about what has happened, I take the position here that these things are actualities.

Holding mandatory training sessions for Local Church Officers; mandatory background check sessions of church employees, volunteers and those who work with children at a fee of $40 per person; holding of Presiding Elder and pastoral appointments simultaneously during the conference year. By addressing the issues related to what might be transpiring on several Presiding Elder Districts I could actually highlight “It’s The System." Thus it is felt that we can better address the issue of "It's the System" from this perspective.

Dr. Sydnor was correct in his explanation and understanding of the duties and responsibilities of a Presiding Elder as per discipline. We differ slightly in some of our assessments. I hasten to say I have never held the position of Presiding Elder. I further acknowledge having tremendous respect for the office of Presiding Elder. I have known some great Presiding Elders of African Methodism: The Rev. King Solomon DuPont, the Rev. R.N. Snelling, the Rev. James A. Roberts, the Rev., Sylvester A. Cousin, and the Rev. D.A. Russell all who served in Florida. However in my personal estimation the greatest of these Florida Presiding Elders was the Reverend J. B. Blake, who found me out at Fellsmere, Florida with nineteen members on the roll and when he was finished with me, in 1976, I became the second General Secretary in the history of the denomination and in 1988 a bishop of the Church. I got to know others like the Rev. J. Allen Parker and the Rev. W. D. Johnson, 4th, the Rev. B. L. McCormick and the Rev. John D. Walker, 10th, the Rev. R. L. Hilson and the Rev. Sam Davis, 9th, Z. L. Grady and B. J. Finklea, 7th, E. D. Williams, L. M. Lumzy; the Rev. Earl James, 8th, the Rev. S. E. Lancaster; the Rev. William Ricks, 3rd; the Rev. Harvey L. Vaughn. Sr., 5th; the Rev. L. B. Quinn and R. A. Washington, 5th; the Rev. L. J. (big) Jones, and the Rev. B. C. Carswell 6th; the Rev. Willie L. Freeman, the Rev. T. E. Harper and the Rev. George Sims 1st; the Rev. Sidney Williams, the Rev. Nathanial Gaylord, 2nd; the Rev. William H. Hunter and J. J. Brown 12th; the Rev. Elmer E. Martin and the Rev. J. C. Miller 13th; and countless others.

The A.M.E. System affirms that the office of Presiding Elder is extremely important. No one can become a Presiding Elder except by the appointment of a Bishop of the church. The duties and responsibilities are clearly spelled out in our Book of Discipline. Of utmost importance is the fact that the Presiding Elder specifically is acting on behalf of the Presiding Bishop. The process and procedure of the Church gives and authorizes the Bishop to select the most experienced and best qualified person (s) as Presiding Elder. However, as a lay person, pastor, General Secretary of the Church and an active Bishop for 20 years; I have observed that many Bishops did not take this admonition seriously. I have personally seen numerous persons who had proven more than once to be incapable of successfully pastoring churches, promoted/elevated to the office of Presiding Elder. This has not necessarily been the norm but it has and is happening. The end result manifests itself in many incidents which routinely happen on presiding elder districts and in annual conferences.

Suffice it to be said that when a Pastor, Presiding Elder, Bishop is appointed he/she automatically inherit the "whole field." What he/she does with "the field" after "timely and proper cultivation / training etc. is his/her responsibility. The system gives authority to do this. Conversely the system gives authority to "make adjustments" in personnel as needed but utilize the proper process and procedure.

In this case the individual to whom we refer is the Presiding Elder who is the direct representative of the Presiding Bishop.

What does this imply? It implies that according to the system of the Church, the Church has assigned the Bishop to superintend the work. He/she is ultimately responsible and accountable for everything under his/her jurisdiction. Annually at the Council of Bishops and every four years at the General Conference each Bishop is required to give an account of his/her stewardship. At the General Conference, the Bishop is not permitted to present witnesses i.e., District Accountants, Treasurers, Presiding Elders, etc. but he/she stands alone before the Episcopal Committee and present his/her quadrennial report for examination.

Therefore, if in fact the local congregations and Annual Conferences are being abused by the Presiding Elder, they are conversely being abused by the Bishop because it is the Bishop who has given this person authority to act of his/her behalf and with his/her consent. It is the Bishop's responsibility to monitor what his/her representatives are conveying to the congregations and pastors. You may “shake it” otherwise; however, I contend that this is a correct reading and understanding of the “AME System. It was designed and programmed to operate a certain way with the proper checks and balances in place.

The entire "approved support package" for Presiding Elders spiritually, financially and morally is clearly delineated in the Book of Discipline. (1) It is to be done at the site of the Annual Conference by vote of the Conference. (2) by law he/she is further authorized to hold a pre and post planning meeting (3) by law he/she has the authority to hold annually a District Conference and Church School convention (4) by law he/she is compelled to hold four quarterly conferences per year at each charge. These authorized meetings amount to total of eight (8) delegate (mandatory) assembly meetings per year per church with and for the presiding elder.

When one factors in the Annual Conference/Episcopal District i.e., Annual Conference, Episcopal pre and post Planning meeting, Christian Education Congress, Special Evangelism or Convocation meeting these mandatory delegate assemblies add a total of six (6). When added to the 8 mandatory meetings of the presiding elder, the total number of "other" meetings required totals a minimum of fourteen (14) per church per year.

The Episcopal District/Annual Conference/Presiding Elder District have authority to hold this many mandatory meetings per year. It would appear that those who plan and program should incorporate and utilize those venues, dates and times as the system dictates and not make efforts to create additional venues, dates, time lines and financial asking.

The system as set up by the Fathers allows for interaction between the local congregation and the presiding elder four times, individually, so that they could confer and collaborate on the unique situation at each charge in a "smaller group" setting. The smaller group setting is the "answered prayer" of most educators. The “Fathers of the Church” (they were all men at the time) made provisions for larger group combination settings at the Annual Conference, District Conference and Church School conventions, pre and post Planning meetings and Convocations. “The Fathers” considered these as adequate times for interaction and teachable moments. It is my understanding that funding for the original mandatory meetings have already been factored in by the Annual Conference Committee on PE Apportionment.

Therefore, the meetings and finances of the same have been previously approved by the annual conference. The designated committees at the pre and post meetings have formulated the agenda/topics which could reach beyond the disciplinary requirements for consideration at the meetings. It is further understood that time and activities during the Quarterly Conference are also teachable moments for the PE and members of the local church/Quarterly Conference.

It is my understanding that there have always been ample times and places stipulated for training, teaching, etc in the system for local churches. Plus, it is mandated that the local pastor shall be responsible for the training of his/her cabinet. The questions raised indicate poor planning and the possibility of presiding elders abusing their authority i.e. (1) The PE has ignored the prevailing system (2) set out to formulate his/her own system, which is alien to African Methodism (3) Taken to making assessments/asking without due authority (4) acting and interacting without the blessing and approval of the bishop he/she really represents. (5) in reality the PE has manipulated the AME System. (6) Theses examples are classic evidence that there is a prescribed “system” in place. It also reveals those who would by thought, word or deed, commission or omission manipulate "The System(s).”

We are all aware that there is a system and systems within the system which must be allowed to function properly otherwise we are willfully ignoring the consequences of our actions or lack of actions. As with the clock/watch, if left to run as it was built to run, it would be accurate and dependable. But when you physically (deliberately) stop the fly wheel and (deliberately) change the speed of the pinwheel and (deliberately) manipulate/tamper with the winding stem (whether by omission, commission, thought word or deed) to change the hour, date, and second hand, it has no choice but to show the designated manipulations that will be readily noticeable when compared with other time pieces.
The fact still remains that the systems we have are the: General, Annual, District, Quarterly, and Church Conferences. We have the Commission System: General Board, Departments, and Commissions. We have the Judicial Administration/System. I contend that it is the best set of systems available.

Every four years opportunities are available to make course corrections and other adjustments to the binding system. It is a good system. “It's the system!”

3. REPORT FROM THE 32ND BIENNIAL SESSION OF THE CONNECTIONAL LAY ORGANIZATION:

By John Thomas III

The 32nd Biennial Session of the Connectional Lay Organization (CLO) of the African Methodist Episcopal Church was held from August 14-18, 2011 in Detroit, Michigan. Over 1100 delegates, alternates and observers gathered to participate in business and Christian fellowship under the leadership of CLO President Willie C. Glover (3rd) and General Board Lay Commission Chairperson Bishop C. Garnett Henning. The 4th Episcopal District hosted the meeting under the guidance of Senior Bishop John R. Bryant and Episcopal District Lay President Madge White.

Organized activities for the Biennial began on Saturday August 13th with several cultural and historical excursions around Detroit available for early arriving delegates. Additionally, the 4th Episcopal Young Adult Lay members sponsored a welcome event. Sunday August 14th was packed with the normal organizational particulars of any large-scale convention.

Registration, First Timer’s Orientation, Committee meetings and the final Executive Board meeting of the 2009-2011 Biennium were the orders of the day. The Connectional Lay Economic Development Corporation (CLEDC) held their annual board meeting introducing their new CEO Dr. Vera Bradley (5th). The opening worship service under the direction of Bishop McKinley Young featured the participation of a cross-section of active and retired Bishops along with the Lay leadership of the AME Church. The 4th Episcopal District Choir under the direction Connectional Music and Christian Arts Ministry Chair the Rev. Anthony Vinson is to be commended for using a creative blend of contemporary and traditional music throughout the service. Bishop Henning delivered the sermon entitled “Team Commitment” (I Corinthians 3:16-17. The message charged those assembled to reevaluate their commitment to the church and following the teachings of Jesus Christ. After the service closed, the various Episcopal Districts adjourned to their meetings.

The 32nd CLO Biennial officially convened on Monday August 15th. The early morning devotion service featured the Rev. Rodrecus M. Johnson (3rd) speaking on the topic “Choose Life” (John 10:10). After the service, preliminary organizational matters and a greeting from Congressman John Conyers (D-Michigan), the keynote address was delivered by Retired Congresswoman Carolyn Cheeks Kilpatrick (D-Michigan). An active member of Oak Grove AME Church in Detroit, Ms. Kilpatrick charged the laity assembled to live up to the social justice principles on which the AME Church was founded. The afternoon business session opened with a presentation from Mercy Ships followed by the Presidential Address. After being presented by his home District President Ms. Ametta Reeves (3rd), Dr. Willie Glover rendered an expansive accounting of his service over the last two years followed by a detailed video presentation. The report was duly received with accolades and praise by the assembly. After the lunch recess, the General Conference Candidates’ Forum sponsored by the V-Alert Committee was held in order to provide laity with an opportunity to learn more about those seeking election to the Episcopacy, a General office or the Judicial Council. The two hour session was filled with revealing and thought-provoking answers from the candidates to the questions raised by the panel. Following the Forum, the assembly adjourned for the host District Reception. Interspersed with the Motown musical flavor were greetings from various city dignitaries. Following the reception, several committees met and the Episcopal District Young Adult Representatives had their Annual Retreat.

Tuesday August 16th began with the morning service featuring the Rev. Elaine P. Walters (4th) preaching an electrifying sermon entitled “We Can’t Stay Here, God is Calling Us to Go!” (Matthew 17:18 and 28:18). After the devotional, CLO Director of Lay Activities Edith Bartley Cartledge introduced the first intensive plenary session: “Perspectives of the African Methodist Episcopal Church: Past, Present and Future”. The Panelists were as follows: Past—Dr. Jayme Coleman Williams, the Rev. Dr. James Miller (4th), Bishop John Adams; Present— Mr. Kgosi Monaisa (19th), Bishop Adam J. Richardson, the Rev. Dr. William Watley (6th); Future—Mr. John Thomas III (13th), Bishop Jeffrey N. Leath, the Rev. Raymond Bryant (5th).

The panelists engaged in an entertaining and enlightening discussion of the challenges facing the AME Church as it seeks to fulfill its mission in a changing world. Specific mention was made of the issues facing educational institutions, social justice, financial accountability and relevance. A highlight of the panel took place when Dr. Isabel Medina of the Dominican Republic Annual Conference (16th) addressed the panelists in Spanish and Mr. Thomas responded to her in her native language to the assembly’s surprise.

The next plenary was “Transitional Leadership” featuring the Rev. Dr. Floyd Flake (1st). Rev. Flake used his vast experience in both the ministry and the political world to discuss leadership and motivational strategies. So much was the desire to glean from Rev. Flake’s knowledge, that an additional session was scheduled to dialogue further with one of African Methodism’s clergy giants.

The Third Plenary Session was divided between two topics: “Building a Successful Lay Organization” (Presenters Gloria Byrd (6th) and Herbert Mngadi (19th)) and “Motivating Emerging Leaders for Christ-Centered Leadership” (Panelists Karabo Links (15th), Dr. Kris Marsh (2nd), Rev Councilman Andre Spivey (4th), the Rev. Dr. Reginald Blount (4th) and moderator Darrel Thomas (4th). While the latter panel was geared towards Young Adults, both panels had a sizeable attendance with a mixed crowd.

After the intensive training sessions, the delegates had a three-hour break to prepare for the Jesse L. Burns Black Tie Soiree. The attendance of the immediate past CLO President made the event especially unique. Spearheaded by 2nd Episcopal District President Valerie Bell and CLO Assistant Recording Secretary Doris Bell, the event highlighted the CLO commitment to AME institutions of higher education as $45,000 was raised through ticket sales and donations for Paul Quinn College in Dallas, Texas. In addition to the fellowship and fine dining, the attendees were blessed by the musical talents of The Beverley Thomas Fine Arts Institute Choir and the LaShaun Gary and Friends band. Mr. Michael Blake, Associate Director of the Office of Intergovernmental Affairs for the White House brought words of encouragement and praise. After the banquet, attendees were treated to more musical delights via the Beverley Thomas Choir, Mr. Adrian Dunn, Positive Force and the headliner Kurt Carr and Singers. No stranger to Connectional AME audiences, Kurt Carr delivered an exemplary performance treating the audience to well-known favorites and sneak previews from his upcoming album.

On Wednesday, the morning started with a devotional featuring the Rev. Cindy Carr (3rd) preaching from the topic “What’s Fueling Your Fire?” (Philippians 4:1-6). After the discussion, the business of the Biennial began in earnest with an aggressive and daunting agenda. The morning session was consumed with the reading of the Constitution and Bylaws navigated by the capable leadership of Chair Ethel Wallace-Jenkins (1st) and Vice-Chair Starr Battle (2nd). The business adjourned for the noon-day Young Adult Explosion. Feature a mix contemporary and traditional praise and liturgy, the service culminated with the preached word from the Rev. Dr. Joseph Cousin (4th). He preached from the topic “When the Church Gets Together” (Matthew 18:18-20). Presentations were made to the CLO Director of Lay Activities, CLO President and retiring Episcopal District YARs. The business session resumed after lunch with a series of briefings from AME-SADA and the Neighborhood Assistance Corporation of America (NACA). After a heated and spirited debate, the 2011-2013 budget was adopted. The assembly then adjourned to prepare for the Outstanding Layperson of the Year Banquet. Mrs. Starr Battle Mrs. Beverly Nutall (10th) served as the Mistress of Ceremonies and Mrs. Starr Battle (2nd) delivered the keynote address. The 2011 Biennial Lay Person of the year was Dr. Verma Curtis (6th) and Mr. Jai Ingraham (11th) won the inaugural Ted Harris Young Adult Award. The following scholarships were awarded:

- Dr. Jayme Coleman Williams Scholarship:
Alexander Davis (13th)

- Dr. Joseph McKinney Scholarship:
Rachael Richard (11th)

- Mr. J.D. Williams Scholarship:
Not Awarded

After the banquet, the Biennial reconvened to finish consideration the budget in an expedited session.

Friday morning began with a devotional featuring the Rev. Eddie L. Harris from the topic “Can’t Nobody Do me like Jesus” (Jude 21-25). The final business session began with committee reports and the final disposition of Mr. Alphonso Times (7th) Director of Public Relations. After a lengthy debate, the Biennial upheld the Executive Board’s recommendation to remove Mr. Times from office. Committee reports were received and the assembly adjourned to the Centennial kick-off luncheon under the guidance of Dr. Paulette Coleman and Mr. Bill Ayers (2nd).

The 32nd Biennial Session of the Connectional Lay Organization ended on a high note. The passage of the extensive Constitution and Bylaws revision will chart the course of the CLO for decades to come. Stronger logistical support and clearer agenda priorities were needed, however, as delegates were frequently seen rushing to from events and due to activity overruns and overlaps.

The compressed manner in which the business of the organization was transacted combined with lack of secret balloting caused further concern.

Several essential agenda items—most notably review of the proposed CLO legislation for the 49th General Conference—were deferred until the Fall Executive Board meeting.

It is hoped that future Biennials will improve upon these issues. The 4th Episcopal District superbly hosted the event and set the bar high for 6th Episcopal District in 2013 and other future hosts.

The AME Church needs a well-trained and capable laity now more than ever.

Prayerfully, the CLO will live up to the mantle placed upon it.

*John Thomas III is a Ph.D candidate at the University of Chicago


4. SEPTEMBER IS PROSTATE CANCER AWARENESS MONTH:

September is Prostate Cancer Awareness Month. Now is the time for all males (or mates to make an appointment for him) - Annual medical examination to include a prostate cancer screening test.

You can read, see and hear my story at:

http://www.facingcancertogether.witf.org/healthy-lifestyle/a-prostate-cancer-survivor-story-my-wife-saved-my-life-82911.

Save a life – Get tested during September 2011.

**Submitted by Colonel Jim Williams, retired United States Army


5. DAILY MINUTE MEDITATION – “THE BEST WEAPON”:

*The Rev. Gloria Sydnor Smith, Esq.

Ephesians 6:12 (NIV) states, "For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms."

Turn on the news to see the destructive consequences of evil in the world. There are, however, some things that you won't see. You won't see the evil forces that are operating behind the scenes in the unseen spiritual realm.

How do we deal with invisible evil? We speak the Word of God (Bible scriptures). Spoken Scripture is our weapon against invisible evil forces. When we speak it out, good things happen. When God made creation, God spoke it out, and God declared that it “was good” (Genesis 1).

Create your own existence in this world by speaking the Word of God, it's the best weapon you have.


*The Rev. Gloria Sydnor Smith, Esq. is the pastor of Whitman Chapel AME Church in Belpre, Ohio


6. MID-WEEK MEDITATION ~ BASED ON ISAIAH 1:1-18:

Dr. Joseph A. Darby

Those of us in my high school class decided that since most of us were turning 60 years old this year, we'd have a joint birthday party a couple of weeks ago. In addition to doing poor impressions of teenagers that would have embarrassed our children, we also reflected on how things have changed since our high school days - how there are no more big black rotary phones in every house, how LP records are now ancient technology, and how hard it is now to find a bottle of "white out!"

"White out" was an essential in the days before typewriters were replaced by word processing programs. If you were typing and made a mistake, you had to stop, find the "white out," brush some on the mistaken text, wait for it to dry and then type over it - which wasn't easy because it sometimes left lumps on the paper. Today, one only has to backspace, delete and retype, and every trace of a typed mistake is gone for good.

What computers can now do to correct mistakes is similar to what God's grace does for us. None of us are perfect and we all make our share of mistakes, but God rescues us, and delete our mistakes through the grace of the Christ who died for our sins.

It's easy to dwell on our mistakes, play games of "what if," and wish that we could do some things over again. What matters, however, are not our mistakes but the marvelous way that Jesus can eradicate them and bless us not because of who we are, but in spite of who we are. Be encouraged and count on Christ, even when you mess up. Trust and find comfort in the God who told His rebellious people, "Though your sins be a scarlet, I'll wash them white as snow." God will turn your mess into a blessing.

If this has been a blessing to you, feel free to share it!

Get Ready for Sunday!

Join us for Holy Communion worship at 7:45 am and 11 am on September 4. The Combined Choir, Gospel Choir and Morris Brown Mass Choir will offer praise.

Sunday’s Scripture Lessons are:

Deuteronomy 4:32-38
Acts 4:1-10
Matthew 9:1-8

Morris Brown AME Church Sunday’s Sermons are:

7:45 am – “Celebrate God’s Power”
11:00 am - “Move By God’s Power”

See YOU in church, and have a great week!


The Rev. Dr. Joseph A. Darby is the pastor of Morris Brown AME Church in Charleston, South Carolina

7. DR. E. GAIL ANDERSON HOLNESS APPOINTED TO SERVE ON DC MAYOR’S INTERFAITH COMMISSION:

Dr. E. Gail Anderson Holness Pastor Christ Our Redeemer AME (DC) appointed by Mayor of Washington, DC to serve on Mayor’s Interfaith Commission; scheduled to travel to Israel with Project Interchange

Washington, DC September 26, 2011: Dr. E. Gail Anderson Holness, Senior Pastor, Christ Our Redeemer African Methodist Episcopal Church (DC) was recently appointed by Mayor Vincent Gray as a member of the Mayor’s Interfaith Commission and sworn in June 21, 2011.

Dr. Holness was also selected by Project Interchange, an institute of the American Jewish Committee (AJC), to conduct an educational Seminar in Israel for African American Leaders, which will be held September 18 – 26, 2011. This seminar will incorporate the topics of immigration and integration into Israeli society, human and civil rights, and the art of bridging cultures within a politically and ethnically diverse society.

Since 1982, Project Interchange (PI), a duly authorized 501c3 non-political and non-profit institute of AJC, has been providing educational experiences in Israel for over 5,000 American and international leaders, including elected officials, senior policy makers, university presidents, print and broadcast journalists, clergy, energy and water experts, senior medical officials, Rhodes scholars, student body presidents and campus editors. As a participant Dr. Holness will meet with both Jewish and Arab Israelis, as well as Palestinians, for the presentation of differing viewpoints on informative and controversial issues.


Dr. Holness says that she looks forward to both experiences, “particularly in the area of International Interfaith relations. While there are serious challenges that lie ahead, with God’s help we will prevail. We are in a global community and our concerns are more common than not, we should be eager to learn more about other cultures and faith-related organizations.”


Timothy D. Dorsey
Administrative Assistant
Christ Our Redeemer AME Church
809 Upshur St. NW, Washington, DC 20011
The Church with a heart-in the “heart of the city"
The Rev. Dr. E. Gail Anderson Holness, Pastor


8. CADETS ATTEND JEWISH WAR VETERANS CONVENTION:

Editor’s Note: Chaplain (Capt.) Shawn Menchion mentioned in the article is an AME Itinerant Elder endorsed by the African Methodist Episcopal Church.

by Maj. Don Kerr
Air Force Academy Public Affairs

8/18/2011 - JACKSONVILLE, Fla. -- Two Air Force Academy chaplains and two cadets attended the 116th annual Jewish War Veterans Convention in Jacksonville, Fla., Aug. 9-13 to discuss the Academy's religious respect program and give JWV members some insight into the life of a Jewish cadet here.

Jewish Chaplain (Maj.) Joshua Narrowe and Protestant Chaplain (Capt.) Shawn Menchion represented the Academy's Chaplain Corps at the convention. Cadet 2nd Class Jolie Grossman from Cadet Squadron 23 and Cadet 3rd Class David Harris from CS 11 also attended to provide their perspective as cadets.

Chaplain Narrowe began his presentation by pointing out to the audience some of the unique dynamics at the Academy for the more than 1,100 new cadets each year.

"When they enter the Academy, as cadets they are expected to understand the military and Air Force cultures," Narrowe said. "Then they learn about Academy culture and, more specifically, the Cadet Wing culture. This all happens within about six weeks. In terms of religious respect, we have two training opportunities for these new cadets, where they learn about their First Amendment rights and the importance of understanding religious respect."

The chaplain said the Academy makes an important distinction between respect and tolerance. Here, cadets are expected to respect each other regardless of their particular faith or non-faith, which goes beyond mere toleration.

The Academy offers a variety of programs to accommodate services and discussion groups for all walks of faith, including Christians, Jews, Muslims, Hindus, Buddhists, atheists and members of Earth-Centered religions. Chaplains encourage interfaith discussions among cadets and provide opportunities for cadets to learn and grow from regular interactions with people whose faiths they may never before have encountered.

Grossman brought a unique perspective to the group as a product of a mixed-faith childhood in California; her mother was Catholic and her father was Jewish.

"In true California fashion, they taught me the importance of being not only tolerant, but respectful to all," she said.

A junior, Grossman answered questions from the JWV on the religious atmosphere at the Academy and rumors of possible anti-Semitism.

"Throughout basic training and my time as a cadet, I haven't been treated any differently than a Christian would be," Grossman said. "I have been allowed to miss training events in order to attend services and allowed to leave campus to observe holidays because the Academy recognizes that religion helps people get through tough times."

She went on to share some of her experiences at the Academy, such as being selected as the master of ceremonies for a Holocaust luncheon and traveling to Israel with U.S. Naval Academy midshipmen and U.S. Military Academy cadets.

Harris explained that the Academy does has a "zero-tolerance policy on being intolerant" and said he felt positive about his experiences as a Jewish cadet.

"I have never been approached by someone who has attempted to sway my beliefs," Harris said. "So where is the unwelcoming environment of anti-Semitism that I was warned about? In my opinion, it doesn't exist."

The chapel staff publishes an interfaith calendar with religious holiday entries as Notices to Airmen, which are distributed to the entire cadet community, Menchion said during a briefing on the principles of the Academy religious respect training program.

The program focuses on First Amendment protections, religious rights, fostering religious dialogue, respecting human dignity and practicing moral courage.

The Air Force Academy is the only U.S. military academy with a religious diversity program, Menchion said. He talked about the Academy's leadership model and how it builds and evolves to different levels throughout a cadet's four years of education and leadership training.

"The training is not only designed to introduce cadets to new religions and faiths, but to teach receptiveness and having an open mind to other faith religions and beliefs," Menchion said.

Harris sought to put to bed the rumors of an atmosphere of intolerance.

"In my experience, the atmosphere of the Academy is one of respect for everyone. And I am proud to say that I am indeed a Jewish cadet at the United States Air Force Academy," he said.

The Jewish War Veterans National Convention was headlined by retired Army Gen. Eric Shinseki, the secretary of Veterans Affairs, and Army Maj. Gen. Emmitt Titshaw.

The event is designed to update its members on military affairs. It is composed of Jewish U.S. citizens who are American war veterans promoting patriotism, upholding universal rights of liberty, equality, justice and the fair rights of Jews everywhere.

*Reprinted with the permission of the USAF - 1st Lt Meredith Kirchoff , U.S. Air Force Academy Public Affairs, Deputy Director

9. THE 13TH EPISCOPAL DISTRICT PIONEERS ELECTRONIC VOTING:

The 13th Episcopal District pioneers electronic voting to elect delegates to the 49th Quadrennial Session of the General Conference

Bishop Vashti Murphy McKenzie leads the way with technology; no more counting votes off of pieces of paper in the 13th Episcopal District.

Bishop McKenzie introduced the keypad method of voting for delegates to the 49th Quadrennial Session of the General Conference that will meet next July in Nashville Tennessee. It is believed that the Kentucky Annual Conference is the first annual conference in the AME Church to use the keypad method for voting for delegates to the General Conference. The Kentucky Annual Conference was virtually paperless during the annual conference.

Kudos to Bishop Vashti Murphy McKenzie, Supervisor Stan McKenzie, the 13th Episcopal District and the Kentucky Annual Conference for leading the way in technology and innovation.

10. NEWLY PLANTED GREATER HARVEST AME CHURCH:

Newly planted Greater Harvest AME Church in Dallas, Texas - www.greaterharvestamec.com

The Rev. Dr. Gregory H. Kimble says, “Our goal for church growth begins with planting seeds of need for empowering people to live a more meaningful and productive life. We sponsor community premarital counseling workshops retreats and marital enrichment retreats. The purpose is to cultivate (planting seeds) building healthy marriages. Stay tuned for more updates for the Family Life Ministry.”

**Submitted by the Rev. Dr. Gregory H. Kimble, Licensed Professional Counselor and pastor of Greater Harvest AME Church in Dallas, Texas

11. BOSTON-HARTFORD DISTRICT YOUTH SET NEW POSITIVE RECORD:

Every year, early in the summer, churches from the Boston Hartford District of the New England Annual Conference come together to honor high school graduates and provide partial scholarships for those who are pursuing additional education or training. So often we hear about African American youth making mistakes. This event is designed to encourage and celebrate positive accomplishments by youth who are part of African Methodism. This year a record number of students, 17, qualified for the Herbert L. Eddy Scholarship Program. The scholarship is named after the Presiding Elder of the Boston Hartford District. Before applying, Boston Hartford District students must successfully complete high school and enroll in either a college or trade school for further education.

On June 26, 2011 scholarship recipients participated in a 5:00 p.m. “Celebration Program” at Bethel A.M.E. Church in Bloomfield CT where the Pastor is the Reverend Ron McCune. The celebration had the theme: “Stepping into the Next Level.” Students wowed the audience with a short demonstration of their various talents. One student played the soprano saxophone. Several students sang. One student demonstrated “Positive Rap.” Another student danced and some students demonstrated their speaking ability.

The scholarship recipients are Sister Lynette Holmes (NEAC YPD Director), the Rev Sandra Whitley, Brother Sean Wiltz, Brother Alphonse Jireh Wilfred, Sister Taylor Bradshaw, Brother Derrick Seldon II, Sister Ashli Giles-Perkins, Sister Olivia Dupree, the Rev Dannie Mae Green, Presiding Elder Eddy, the Rev Amelia Eddy, Brother Michael Davis Jr, Sister Bria Belim, Sister Jade Anderson, Sister Margaret Wogbeh, Sister Tiffany Herriquez, Sister Angelique Samuel-Marshall, Sister Ayo Oluwa Onatunde, Brother Joel Clarke, and Sister Shayla Dixon, Brother Jared Curry and Brother Aidid Brayboy.

12. MORRIS BROWN COLLEGE BAND TO FILL IN FOR BOISE STATE AT GEORGIA DOME:

The Chick-Fil-A Kickoff Game has set up a number of events for fans in Atlanta for Saturday’s (9/3/11) Boise State-Georgia game at the Georgia Dome.

“When we first created this game, the goal was to have the best game on the first weekend of college football, a BCS-type game on the first weekend and a BCS-type of bowl experience for the fans,” said Gary Stokan, the president and CEO of the Chick-fil-A Bowl. “We wanted a sold-out game. We wanted to create some other events around it like we do for bowl game at end of season.”

To that end, game officials have lined up the Morris Brown College band to serve as a fill-in for the Boise State band, which is not making the trip. The Morris Brown band will play the Broncos’ fight song and other Boise State standbys. Game organizers have purchased blue t-shirts for members of the band.

13. THE ENERGIZED 8TH EPISCOPAL DISTRICT ENDED THE FIRST OF FOUR ANNUAL CONFERENCES:

During the North Mississippi Annual Conference the first election of delegates to the General Conference was held. Several first-time delegates were elected among the laity and the clergy. The clergy-ticket was led by the Rev. Dr. Glenelle Lee Pruitt a powerful pastor in the 8th Episcopal District.

Bishop Carolyn Tyler Guidry preached a powerful sermon as she charged both laity and clergy to serve with integrity and the Holy Spirit.

**Submitted by the Rev. Maurice Wright

14. BE A PART OF THE INAUGURAL AMES ON THE HILL EVENT:

Be a Part of the Inaugural AMEs on the Hill Event - September 21, 2011 linked with the 5th Annual AME-SADA Dinner - September 21, 2011

Advocacy and stepping out on Social Justice issues is our legacy in African Methodism. In creating the Social Action Commission, the African Methodist Episcopal Church sought to create a vehicle that would take seriously the church's mission of speaking truth in the midst of challenging situations and protecting the rights of all humankind.

In this nation and around the world, we face challenges that have no precedent - either in ways that peoples' lives are affected or in ways that governments make life changing decisions. We have engaged via conference all, emails, faxes, public testimony and town hall meetings. That was good, but not enough!! At such a time, the prophetic voice of the Church is required and the AME Church is ready to answer that call, doing a new thing.

September 21st is our day to confront the issues and the decision makers. We must dialogue. We must solidify partnerships that will lead to solutions and minimize the suffering that has almost paralyzed the world stage. We must collaborate among the voters to insure that the people's needs are met. We must commit to make a difference.
Thanks and be well!

See some basic information is below:

Are there security requirements for participants?

Yes, each participant will need to provide social security number and date of birth for review per federal guidelines. To insure confidentiality, this information will only be requested after completion of first part of registration, each participant will be contacted directly to obtain this information.

Will transportation be provided? If so, when?

Transportation will be provided from the hotel to the White House. All participants will be transported from the White House to Capitol Hill. Again, transportation will be provided from the Hill back to the hotel. NOTE: The Metro stop is directly beneath the hotel for the adventurous.
Is there a place to relax between the Hill visits and the SADA gala?
Yes, there will be a lounge area for those who need it.

Will someone assist in making appointments with the elected officials?

Yes, upon request we will provide a template letter and other contact information. Information about key issues will also be provided to each participant. Most importantly, you bring your personal stories from the people who elected each member of Congress.

How much walking is involved in the day's activities?

We are planning to make navigating during the day as easy as possible. The distance from the East Wing to the Auditorium for Administrative briefing is approximately 2 blocks. With advance requests, we will make accommodations for those who will not be able to walk that distance. Similarly our bus drop-offs and pick-ups will create the shortest walking distances.

Is there a number I can call for special questions?

Yes, please call 213-494-9493 for the Social Action Director. And, use the website to receive other responses - www.ame-sac.com
If I cannot register online, what can I do?

You may register by check or money order made payable to Social Action Commission. Mail to USPS or overnight to Social Action Commission ATTN: “Jackie" Dupont-Walker 1621 Wellington Road Los Angeles, CA 90019

Bring your message to Washington, DC. Meet with key persons in President Obama's Administration and leadership in the US Congress.

Be a part of the first "AMEs On the Hill" - September 21, 2011!! - Register today - www.AME-SAC.com .

Attend the AME-SADA banquet. To obtain tickets and more information go to www.AME-SADA.org .

Registration: $ 25 per person (Note: Registration for AMEs On The Hill separate from AME SADA Gala)

15. BENEFIT CONCERT TO SUPPORT SCHOLARSHIPS AND OTHER EDUCATION INITIATIVES ANNOUNCED FOR SEPTEMBER 22ND AT WOLF CREEK AMPHITHEATER:

Atlanta, GA, August 25th…The Mary E. Goldston Foundation, in collaboration with the 100 Black Men of Atlanta, will host its First Annual Benefit Concert, Thursday evening, September 22nd at Wolf Creek Amphitheater in SW Atlanta, Founder Nathaniel R. Goldston, III, announced today.

In making this announcement, Mr. Goldston, who is also Chairman of Atlanta-based food service and hospitality management corporation, Gourmet Services, Inc., stated that he is most excited by the guest performers who will be featured at this Benefit Concert: internationally-renowned artist, Roberta Flack will headline the roster of performers; she will be joined by neo-soul singer-songwriter, Anthony David; and the Wilberforce University Choir that will round out the field of entertainers with their spirited choral renditions. Also appearing will be Honorary Hosts: Honorable Harry Belafonte and Ambassador Andrew Young.

“As a youngster growing up in Omaha, Nebraska, I was always keenly aware of the value of a good education as the mortar for laying the foundation for one’s future business and life success. It was something that was instilled in me by my parents and other elders. That is why when I launched the Mary E. Goldston Foundation to celebrate the life and work of my mother, we established Education as its primary mission. And, it is also the reason that our first major fundraising effort is targeted to support the educational aspirations of young minority students,” commented Goldston.

He concluded: “While we would all agree that job creation is the driving force behind spurring our nation’s economic growth, we also know that without a properly educated citizenry, employers will continue to look outside our borders to fill whatever jobs are available. And, to me this is totally unacceptable. That is why, the beneficiaries for this year’s Mary E. Goldston Foundation’s First Annual Benefit Concert will be: program initiatives in engineering, math and science at Wilberforce University [the oldest private HBCU] based in Ohio; along with scholarships for students of the 100 Black Men of Atlanta’s successful education programs--B.E.S.T. Academy and Project Success.”

The theme of the Benefit Concert is “Advancing Education Through Entertainment”, which will mingle diverse musical genres and entertainers into a harmoniously soothing presentation of elegant sounds—all, for the purpose of inspiring educational achievement. Benefit Concert sponsors include Gourmet Services, Inc. and Diaz Foods, as Title Sponsors; Radio-One [Majic 107.5/97.5] as Presenting Sponsor; others rounding out the list of prime sponsors include, Southern Company, TDC Systems Integration, Inc.; and Grey Goose.

“Securing a good job and acquiring a first-rate education in preparation for that job are two factors that unify all minority youngsters,” says Rene Diaz, President of Diaz Foods. “That is why we are pleased to participate as a Title Sponsor of this important event; for we recognize that in future years, this Benefit Concert can have a positive effect on diverse minority communities around the country,” Diaz concluded.

Tickets for the Benefit Concert range from $25 for lawn seats, to $50, $75 and $100 for single reserved seats, and are available through Ticketmaster at www.ticketmaster.com. Patron tickets are also available for $500/two tickets; with sponsor tables ranging from $2500 to $15,000 for tables of eight or ten by contacting the organization at 404-876-5700 or via the organization’s web site at Gregory L. Hawkins, Chairman, 100 Black Men of Atlanta, Inc., commented: “We are extremely excited and proud about this collaboration between the 100 Black Men of Atlanta and the Mary E. Goldston Foundation for this innovative Benefit Concert, ‘Advancing Education Through Entertainment’. Supporting various educational initiatives and providing scholarships for youngsters to achieve their higher education goals is consistent with the primary principles of the 100 Black Men, nationally and locally. This represents a major driver for all of the men of the 100, and along with serving as mentors, it is what distinguishes our membership from other organizations in communities all across the US, and especially here in Atlanta.”

Honorees who will be recognized at the Mary E. Goldston Foundation’s First Annual Benefit Concert include: Dr. Jamye C. Williams, distinguished alumna of Wilberforce University Class of 1938 and Retired General Officer of the AME Church [Atlanta, GA]; and Mr. Lenny F. Springs II, Senior Advisor, US Department of Education/Office of Traditionally Under-Resourced Schools, former Director of Supplier Diversity for Wachovia Bank, and a member of the 100 Black Men of America [Charlotte, NC and Atlanta, GA]. Both honorees are being acknowledged for outstanding leadership, and recognized as “champions” for higher education and economic development.

For additional information, contact the organization at: info@goldstonfoundation.org

**Media Contact: Carolyn Odom (404-876-5700; 404-229-8903)

16. PUBLIC SERVICE MESSAGE FOR MILITARY RETIREES AND FAMILY MEMBERS WHO ARE INSURED WITH TRICARE:

With the flu season approaching, the information below may save you money.

TRICARE Offers Free Vaccines (Including Shingles)

Defense officials have announced that TRICARE will now offer free vaccines – including shingles vaccine for beneficiaries age 60 and older – through their retail pharmacy network. Free vaccines previously were only offered only in military hospitals and clinics.

See what vaccines are offered through the TRICARE network and make sure you're up to date on all of your preventative vaccines.

TRICARE recommends calling your pharmacy in advance to ensure the vaccine is in stock and a pharmacist is available to administer it.

MOAA strongly applauds this outstanding initiative, which is particularly helpful to TRICARE For Life beneficiaries, who previously had to pay up to $150 out of pocket for the shingles vaccine.

Unfortunately, refunds can't be provided for beneficiaries who previously paid for the vaccine before the new program was instituted.

**Submitted by Colonel-Retired Jim Williams


17. ST. PAUL AME CHURCH IN BERMUDA WILL CONDUCT WORSHIP SERVICES IN RENOVATED SANCTUARY:

“The vision has become reality” said an ecstatic Pastor, the Rev. Dr. Lanel D. Guyton of St. Paul AME Church. After a three year building and renovation programme, the Church will transition from its Centennial Hall to the renovated sanctuary for its morning worship services on Sunday 4th September 2011 at 10:55 a.m.

“We feel truly blessed to worship in a sanctuary that renews St. Paul’s promise of a welcoming, spirit-filled and vibrant part of the community,” the Rev. Guyton continued.

The Church’s congregation will now worship on the historic site on the corner of Court and Victoria Streets in air-conditioned comfort, on comfortable pews and enjoy modern screens and audio amenities.

The Church’s famous stained glass windows, donated by many prominent, Bermudian families have been preserved and restored. A totally new balcony and exposed original beams add to the new look and feel of the sanctuary.

“African Methodists are a singing people and true to our tradition we are very proud of our new Rodgers pipe and digital organ which will be a centerpiece of our worship experiences.”

All are welcome to attend the Service on Sunday 4th September 2011 at 1055 a.m. and witness the symbolic transition from the Centennial Hall to the Sanctuary.

To contact the Pastor, the Church Office or to support the renovation fund please email stpaulamebda@gmail.com or call 292-0505.

Read the full article: http://bernews.com/2011/08/first-worship-at-new-st-paul-ame-church/

18. NEWS FROM CANAAN AME CHURCH, COLUMBIA, TENNESSEE:

The Rev. William Howard Smith

Canaan AMEC, Columbia, TN was blessed on Sunday, August 21, 2011 with two of its children, being the proclaimers of the Gospel. At the morning service the Rev. Verelene Watkins Jones delivered a message that touched those who listened. The choir made of former Canaan members provided the music. Canaan’s community has produced sons and daughters who have grown in favor and statue with the Lord. Two women played hooky from their normal place of worship. (They don’t know that their pastors are my first cousins.) (I didn’t tell them that the Anderson’s’ were kin to me nor did they ask me!) Persons who attended Canaan Church in precious years furnished the music and as an added blessing, prior to the Sermon, those who were members of the any youth choir at Canaan re-banded to perform two selections.
Dinner was served- There was the after the morning worship crowd.

With anticipation, I heard that there was a Bus needing to be parked. A Van, even two would not require that much room. Even some of the church buses I’m accustomed to would not require that much room. I looked and there was a Chartered Bus (Sparkling White). We were thankful that GOD granted traveling mercy to the Rev., Dr., Terence Mayes and the members of Warren Chapel AME Church, Chattanooga TN. Canaan’s Executive Administrative Assistant to the Pastor, Brother Randall L Webster gave the message to Pastor Smith that we were five minutes away before starting the afternoon Worship experience.

Quick Change Artist: Dr Mayes and I exchanged greetings and the pastor called upon another daughter of Canaan, the Rev. Lesa Webster Dawson to be the worship leader to commence with the worship.

Warren Chapel’s 8:00 a.m. minister of music, Enoshall Kilgore, guided the gifted voices from Market Street’s as they ministered in song.

A grandson of the Rev. Verlene Jones, Mr. Cord Martin, pulled out his alto saxophone and blew that woodwind instrument to provide a melody of “I Need Thee Every Hour” and “Precious Lord.” Doctor Mayes’ youngest son, Julian played the Hammond Organ as Randall Webster played the Digital Piano.

Warren’s First Lady, Mrs. Juliana L. Mayes introduced the guest preacher/pastor with the assistance of the Warren Chapel family. The Mayes’ oldest son, Terence Jr. and daughter, Teri, were “in the house.” (Have you ever wondered what it would be like to preach before your father, mother, sister, grandmother, aunts and a church house full of folk who are kin to you? You are talking about an Annual Sermon where people can hear and respond to the word or sit down on you.

The “son of Canaan” preached and people began to stand on their feet talking back to the preacher. The Scripture Luke Chapter 13: beginning at verse 10-13, The sermon topic, "Straighten Up, It’s Only A Set Up." People came to the altar desirous of God moving extraordinarily in their lives.

The associate ministers of Warren Chapel, the Rev. Frank Buckley, the Rev. Donna Perkins and Brother Derrick Thurmond participated in the service. (Perkins assisted with the Warren Chapel Choir, Buckley witnessed to the word being preached and just when we thought it was over, we were blessed with Brother Thurmond singing "My Soul Has Been Anchored In The Lord.”

Following the Benediction, the guests made their way to the dining area to eat. As they walked to the chartered coach that awaited them, I could tell that they had eaten spiritually and seemingly had consumed more than peanut butter and crackers. I noticed how the 94 year old Matriarch of the Watkins, Mayes, and Webster Family and Steward Emeritus of Canaan Church, Sister Annie Louise Woodson, called all of her grand children, great grandchildren and great-great grandchildren "Baby". I would run out of breath, this woman knew their names!!! In Amazement, I sat as those Warren Chapel folk walked to Sister Woodson, greeted her and talked so nice too her. I asked myself, "Why are these people speaking so lovingly to Sister Woodson?" Someone told me that years ago, Dr. Mayes fell and broke his leg and Mama E, his grandmother, picked up her phone, called one of her people and told them to take her to Chattanooga, TN where she could nurse one of hers back to health!

This woman still drives her Red Chevy truck! Her Sister, Mrs. Ruth Harwell, is 84, still drives her Blue or Gray Chrysler, is skilled bowler, will beat you at playing horse shoes, or shuffleboard, makes floral arrangements, teaches Church School, sings, writes books, composes poetry and plays the piano.
Sister Willa Smith and I will never forget Homecomings at Canaan Church!

19. HARVARD UNIVERSITY ENVIRONMENTAL FELLOWSHIPS:

Harvard University Center for the Environment Environmental Fellows Program
24 Oxford Street, 3rd Floor
Cambridge, MA 02138, USA
Phone: 617.495.0368 Fax: 617.496.0425

E-mail: environmental_fellows@harvard.edu
Web address: http://environment.harvard.edu/grants/fellows

The Harvard University Center for the Environment created the Environmental Fellows program to enable recent doctorate recipients to use and expand Harvard's extraordinary resources to tackle complex environmental problems. The environmental Fellows will work for two years with Harvard faculty members in any school or department to create new knowledge while also strengthening connections across the University's academic disciplines.

Eligibility:

* Candidates for 2012 Environmental Fellowships should have received their terminal degree between May 2008 and August 2012. (Fellows must have completed all requirements of their degree before starting work in September 2012.)

* Candidates with a doctorate or equivalent in any field are eligible, and they may propose research projects in any discipline. Applicants without a Ph.D. may apply if they have studied in fields where the Ph.D. is not the typical terminal degree. All successful candidates will be able to demonstrate experience performing scholarly research.

* Each candidate must secure a commitment from one or more Harvard faculty members to serve as a mentor and to provide office or lab space for the two-year fellowship. Harvard is an affirmative action, equal opportunity employer. The Center strongly encourages women and minorities to apply.

* Candidates may have received their degrees at any university in the world. Foreign nationals are eligible for fellowships, though study at Harvard generally requires proficiency in English.

* Candidates who received terminal degrees from Harvard, and post-docs currently working at Harvard are eligible for the fellowship provided their research and host arrangements take them in new directions and forge new connections within the University. Harvard candidates should not propose to continue to work with the same professors or lab groups with whom they are currently associated. No candidate should propose to work extensively with his or her thesis advisor.

* Successful candidates should be prepared to commit to work at Harvard for the full two years of the fellowship.

Stipend:

The fellowship will provide an annual stipend of $55,000 plus health insurance, a $2,500 allowance for travel and professional expenses, and other employee benefits. The Harvard University Center for the Environment awarded four fellowships in 2010, and expects to award approximately four to five fellowships per year thereafter. The Center will organize a co-curricular program to ensure that the fellows get to know each other and each other's work. All fellows will attend biweekly dinners with their colleagues, faculty members, and guests.

Application:

Schedule: Applications and all letters of reference must be received by the Center for the Environment by 5 pm EDT, Friday, January 13, 2012. The Center will select a group of fellows and alternates by March 2012, and contact applicants with results at that time.

A complete application includes:

* Cover sheet (available at http://environment.harvard.edu/sites/default/files/Fellows_app_12.pdf

* Curriculum vitae including list of publications

Detailed research proposal (a maximum of five pages, including illustrations; 12 point type; references may be counted separately) Letters of reference from at least three professional colleagues, including the applicant's dissertation adviser

* A letter of support from the applicant's host committing to serve as a mentor and explaining his or her commitment to the proposed research, including the provision of office or lab space and any financial commitments

* Up to three publications submitted as PDFs

Submissions: All materials prepared by the applicant (cover sheet, proposal, CV, etc.) should be submitted by email as a single PDF to environmental_fellows@harvard.edu.

* Applicants are encouraged to ask their referees and hosts to email letters of reference as PDFs or, if necessary, as Word documents attached to the emails. Referees and hosts should send their letters directly to the Center at environmental_fellows@harvard.edu

* The Center will notify applicants to confirm receipt of a complete application

* The Center will also accept hard copies of letters of reference and communications from universities. They should be mailed to:

Environmental Fellows Program
Harvard University Center for the Environment
24 Oxford Street, 3rd Floor Cambridge, MA 02138

If you have questions about the fellowship or application process, please contact:

Jean Gauthier
Harvard University Center for the Environment
24 Oxford Street, 3rd Floor
Cambridge MA 02138617-495-0368
jean_gauthier@harvard.edu

Saleem H. Ali, Ph.D.
Professor of Environmental Planning and Asian Studies
Rubenstein School of Environment and Natural Resources
Director, Institute for Environmental Diplomacy and Security
James M. Jeffords Center for Policy Research
University of Vermont,
153 S. Prospect St.
Burlington VT 05401, USA

Email: saleem@alum.mit.edu
Ph: 802-656-0173
Fx: 802-656-8015

Web: http://www.saleemali.net

IEDS: http://www.uvm.edu/ieds

Twitter: saleem_ali

20. THE 3RD EPISCOPAL DISTRICT 2011 ANNUAL CONFERENCE DATES / PLANNING MEETING:

Bishop C. Garnett Henning, Sr., Presiding Prelate
Mrs. Ernestine Henning, Episcopal Supervisor

West Virginia Annual Conference
August 31, 2011
WMS Annual Meeting

September 1-4
Annual Conference
Wayman AME Church
1136 Eoff Street
Wheeling WV 26003
Host Pastor: The Reverend John E. Stephens
Host Presiding Elder: The Reverend Alton Dillard

Pittsburgh Annual Conference
September 5, 2011
WMS Banquet
September 6
WMS Annual Meeting

September 7 – 11, 2011
Annual Conference
St. James AME Church
444 Lincoln Ave.
Pittsburgh, PA 15206
Host Pastor: The Reverend James E. Murray, Jr.
Host Presiding Elder: The Reverend Eric L. Brown
Associate Presiding Elder: The Reverend James H. McLemore

South Ohio Annual Conference
September 19, 2011
WMS Banquet
September 20
WMS Annual Meeting

September 21 – 25, 2011
Annual Conference
Allen Temple AME Church
7080 Reading Road
Cincinnati, OH 45237
Host Pastor: The Reverend Alphonse Allen
Host Presiding Elder: The Reverend Wilton E. Blake, I
Associate Presiding Elder: The Reverend Wendell L. Harewood

Ohio Annual Conference
October 4, 2011
WMS Annual Meeting

October 5 - 9, 2011
Annual Conference
St. Paul AME Church
639 E. Long Street
Columbus, OH 43215
Host Pastor: The Reverend Michael Bean, Sr.
Host Presiding Elder: The Reverend L. Anthony Gatewood
Associate Presiding Elder: The Reverend Betty W. Holley

North Ohio Annual Conference
October 17, 2011
WMS Banquet
October 18
WMS Annual Meeting

October 19 - 23, 2011
Annual Conference
St. James AME Church
8401 Cedar Avenue
Cleveland, OH 44103
Host Pastor: The Reverend Gerald A. Cooper
Host Presiding Elder: The Reverend P. Robert Tate
Associate Presiding Elder: The Reverend James H. Harris


Third Episcopal District Planning Meeting
November 10-12, 2011
Crowne Plaza
Columbus-Dublin
600 Metro Place North
Dublin, Ohio 43017
614-764-2200

21. EPISCOPAL, GENERAL OFFICER AND CLERGY FAMILY CONGRATULATORY ANNOUNCEMENTS:

- Congratulations to Jahbrielle Henning-Rayford

Jahbrielle Henning-Rayford, the daughter of Helaine A. Henning and Howard James Rayford, graduated from Crenshaw Gifted Magnet High School in June. She is the granddaughter of Bishop C. Garnett Henning and Supervisor Ernestine Lee Henning. She was the Editor of the Yearbook, a member of the Student Government, participated in Toast Master International and a member of Amazing Grace Conservatory, studying in theatrical arts under Wendy Raquel Robinson. She is attending Howard University majoring in Radio, Television and film with a concentration in Television Production. She is a member of Ward AME Church, Los Angeles.

Congratulatory Notes can be sent to Bishop C. Garnett Henning at lanroc@aol.com or jahbrielle@lausd.us


- Congratulations to the Rev. J. W. Tisdale

A pre-appreciation service was held on Saturday, August 13, 2011, for the Rev. J. W. Tisdale. This man of God was honored for his unwavering spirit and commitment to preaching, teaching and ministering the Gospel to all of humankind.

The event was held at St. Phillip AME Church located at 8 Phillip Road in Monticello, Florida.

Congratulatory messages can be emailed to: gcoxbiz@gmail.com


- Dr. Dennis and Mrs. Mary Dickerson on the marriage of their daughter

Dr. Dennis C. Dickerson, Historiographer/Executive Director, Department of Research and Scholarship AME Church and Mrs. Mary Eubanks Dickerson, proudly announces the marriage of their daughter, Christina Marie to Steven Anthony Cousin, Jr. on Saturday, the Third of September, Two Thousand and Eleven at Four o’clock in the afternoon at Greater Bethel AME Church, Nashville, Tennessee.

Congratulatory messages can be emailed to:

Dr. Dennis C. Dickerson: whhbutler@cs.com
Mrs. Mary E. Dickerson: MaryDickerson@comcast.net


- Dr. George, Sr. and Mrs. Nettie Moore on the marriage of their daughter

The Reverend Dr. George Moore, Sr. (retired pastor, Saint Philip A.M.E. Church) & Mrs. Nettie Moore, proudly announces the marriage of their daughter L'Tanya Monnyeen Moore to Kerwin Craig Copeland on Saturday, the Tenth of September, Two Thousand and Eleven, Twelve o'clock Noon at Saint Philip A.M.E. Church, Atlanta, Georgia.

Congratulatory messages can be placed in the Guest Book:

http://www.mywedding.com/kerwinlovesltanya/


- Congratulations to Jeremy Austin Saffore, son of the Rev. Linda Brown-Saffore, associate minister at Lee Chapel AME Church, Nashville, Tennessee and Mr. Horace Saffore

Jeremy Austin Saffore; son of the Rev. Linda Brown-Saffore (Associate Minister, Lee Chapel AME Church, Nashville, Tennessee and Mr. Horace Saffore, graduated from the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga on Saturday, August 13, 2011, with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Criminal Justice.

Congratulatory messages can be emailed to: Ladyltcol@aol.com

- Congratulations to Trenton R. Cokley

Congratulations to Trenton R. Cokley and Howard University's Afro Blue for being selected as contestants for season three of the NBC "voice only" competition, The "Sing Off"

The show premiers on Monday, September 19, 2011, NBC, 8 PM (Eastern Time). The "Sing-Off" features 16 of the country's best a cappella groups performing popular songs. They will be competing for a Sony Music recording contract and $100,000. Trenton is a 2011 graduate of Howard University and has been singing with the Jazz/Pop a capella ensemble since 2009. He is the youngest son of the Rev. Timothy and Mrs. Cynthia M. Cokley of Columbia, South Carolina. The Rev. Cokley is the pastor of Allen Chapel AMEC in Sumter, South Carolina.

"We pray God's blessing and favor on Trenton and Afro Blue as they press their way to victory."

Congratulatory messages may be sent to: ctt5@aol.com


- Congratulations to Herman O. Kelly, III

Herman O. Kelly, III, son of Dr. and Mrs. Herman O. Kelly, Jr. first family of Bethel A.M.E. Church in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, a senior criminology major at the University of Tampa, was awarded an achievement award for 2011 - 2012 due to his hard work and determination in the classroom and with the University of Tampa basketball team.


22. EPISCOPAL FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

We regret to announce the death on Thursday, August 18, 2011 of the Reverend Jesse Floyd McCloud, 95, retired Presiding Elder of the Ozark District. The Reverend McCloud is the father of Mrs. Ruby Clark, Jesse (Pete), LTC (Retired) Marvin and Curtis McCloud. He is the Uncle of Bishop E. Earl McCloud, Jr., Presiding Prelate, 15th Episcopal District, Dr. Rosa McCloud Baxter, Former Editor of the Missionary Magazine, Colonel Vann L. McCloud, and the Reverend Joyce Whiting. He was a member of Parks Chapel AME Church in Dothan, Alabama. The Reverend Rodney D. Smith, Pastor.

The funeral has been held.

Condolences may be sent to his daughter:
Mrs. Ruby Clark
105 Sundale Drive
Dothan, AL 36302
(334) 983-1966


23. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

Mr. Mack Walker of Fort Myers, Florida, transitioned from this life to Life Eternal on Saturday, August 27, 2011. Mr. Mack Walker is the brother of the Rev. David Walker, pastor of the Greater St. James African Methodist Episcopal Church in Thomson, Georgia.

Mr. Mack Walker was a long-time AME and a member of Mt. Olive AME Church in Ft. Myers, Florida. He was a Veteran of the United States Navy and was known as one who loved helping his community and his church.

Mr. Walker leaves to mourn his death a loving wife, Mrs. Annie Pearl Walker; one daughter, Annie Mae Omotosh, two grandchildren, seven great-grandchildren; Five brothers: Steve Walker, Jr. (Nellie Ruth), Sam Walker, the Rev. David Walker (Bobbie), Calvin Walker (Deborah) and Willie Walker; four sisters: Mary Walker, Rosalind Walker, Minnie Walker (Eddie) and Diana Walker. One of thirteen siblings, he was preceded in death by three. Also mourning his death are two Aunts, Mrs. Annie Dudley and Mrs. Fannie Thomas and a special cousin, Elder Mary (Eddie) Marshall as well as many relatives and friends.

Barrett Funeral Chapel is in charge of the final arrangements for Mr. Mack Walker. The Eulogist will be The Rev. James Givens.

Wake/Visitation
Friday, September 2, 2011 - 6:00 p.m. till 7:00 p.m.
Barrett Funeral Chapel
2306 Henderson Ave.
Fort Myers, FL 33916
239-322-1212
239- 334-4020 Fax

Homegoing Celebration
Saturday, September 3, 2011, beginning at 11:00 a.m.
Mt. Olive AME Church
2754 Orange Street
Ft. Myers, FL. 33916
941-332-0305
The Rev. Eddie Lake, Pastor

Condolences may be sent to:

The Walker Family
%Rev. David Walker
P O Box 2703
Aiken, SC 29802

Telephone: 803-640-9888
dawlk@aol.com

24. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

Mrs. Frances Inez Rhea Middlebrooks of Jacksonville, Florida, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, August 31, 2011. Mrs. Frances Middlebrooks is the mother of Mrs. Deloris M. Mitchell and mother-in-law of the Reverend Dr. Robert L. Mitchell, Retired Presiding Elder of the Suwannee-North District, East Conference of the 11th Episcopal District and 24th President of Edward Waters College. Mrs. Middlebrooks was a life-time AME and a member of Saint Paul AME Church in Jacksonville, Florida.

Mrs. Middlebrooks leaves to cherish her memories, two daughters, Mrs. Barbara M. Shuman and Mrs. Deloris M. Mitchell; son-in-law, the Reverend Dr. Robert L. Mitchell; two granddaughters, Mrs. Gwendolyn M. (The Reverend Ernest J.) Lane of Tallahassee, FL and Mrs. Angela S. (the late Mr. Michael D. Butler), and a number of other relatives and friends.

Visitation:

Tuesday, September 6, 2011
9:00 a.m. till 11:00 a.m.

Homegoing Celebration:

Tuesday, September 6, 2011 - 11:00 a.m.
St. Paul African Methodist Episcopal Church
6910 New Kings Road
Jacksonville, FL 32219
(904) 764-2755
stpaul@stpaulamejax.com

The Reverend Dr. Marvin C. Zanders II, Senior Pastor

Arrangements entrusted to:

Alphonso West Mortuary, Inc.
4409 Soutel Drive
Jacksonville, FL 32208-1760

(904) 766-2354
Fax: (904) 766-9671
Email: westmortuary@bellsouth.net


Condolences may be sent to:
The Mitchell Family
2787 Percy Road
Jacksonville, FL 32218
(904) 768-4835
Fax (904) 764-1091
rlmitchell1@bellsouth.net


25. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

We are saddened to announce the passing of Brother Charles E. Vasser, the father of the Rev. Delphine L. Vasser, pastor of St. John AME Church, Mexia, TX - Tenth Episcopal District and past Connectional First Vice President - WIM.

The private homegoing celebration for Brother Vasser, Retired WWII Veteran United States Navy, was held on Wednesday, August 31, 2011, Great Lakes National Cemetery, Holly, MI. Please continue to keep the family in your prayers.

Condolences and expressions of sympathy may be sent to:

The Rev. Delphine L. Vasser
4347 S. Hampton Road #125
Dallas, Texas 75232

Phone: 214.577.6264
Email: pastordelphine@aol.com

Or

Mrs. Ira L. Vasser
925 E. 8th Street
Flint, MI 48503


26. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:


Mrs. Eliza Quinn, the wife of the Rev. John L. Quinn, Sr., pastor of St. Paul AME Church, Natchez, Mississippi, transitioned life on Sunday, August 28, 2011. The Rev. Quinn and Mrs. Quinn were childhood sweethearts, and this love ultimately produced a fifty-one year marriage. Mrs. Quinn was the mother of two children, Mrs. Carmen Quinn Stewart and John L. Quinn, Jr., who preceded her in death.

Family Hour:
Friday, September 2, 2011
4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Zion Flower Missionary Baptist Church
1544 Martin Luther King, Jr., Road
Natchez, Mississippi 39120

Funeral Service:
Saturday, September 3, 2011
11:00 a.m.
Zion Flower Missionary Baptist Church
1544 Martin Luther King, Jr., Road
Natchez, Mississippi 39120

Mackel's Funeral Home
300 Martin Luther King, Jr., Street
Natchez, Mississippi 39120
601-445-8264

Contact Persons:

The Rev. John L. Quinn, Sr.
#8 Green Acres Road
Natchez, Mississippi 39120
Telephone (601) 442-0755 - Home
(601) 597-1432 - Cell

Mrs. Carmen Q. Stewart
18 N. Palestine Road
Natchez, Mississippi 39120
Telephone (601) 442-4508


27. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

Announcing the passing of the Reverend Dr. James Robert Hollie, Jr., associate minister, Mt. Pleasant Baptist Church, Thrall, Texas, the brother of the AMEC Connectional Lay Economic Development Corp. Treasurer, Mr. Larry Hollie of the Tenth Episcopal District.

Funeral arrangements for the Reverend Dr. James Robert Hollie, Jr. are as follows:

A Life Celebration:
Saturday, September 3, 2011
3:00 p.m.
Mt. Pleasant Baptist Church
Hwy. 79 (213 E Taylor Street)
Thrall, Texas 76578

Interment: Taylor City Cemetery

Condolences and expressions of sympathy may be sent to:

Mr. Larry Hollie
23807 Travis Trail
Katy, Texas 77494
Phone: (281) 391-7347
Email: Lhollie@entouch.net

28. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

We regret to announce the passing of Mr. Juan Stephenson, Son of Mrs. Madge White, and President of the Fourth Episcopal District Lay Organization. Please keep the family in your prayers.

Service Arrangements for Mr. Juan Stephenson:

Celebration of Life
Saturday, September 3, 2011
3923 West River Road
Petersburg, Virginia 23803

Family Visitation and Wake:
Sunday, September 4, 2011
7:30 p.m.
Wilkerson Funeral Home
102 South Avenue
Petersburg, Virginia 23803

Homegoing Celebration Service:
Monday, September 5, 2011
2:00 p.m.

Union Branch Baptist Church
The Reverend Dr. Gregory Howard, Pastor
11519 River Road
Chesterfield, Virginia 23838

Services Entrusted to:

Wilkerson Funeral Home
102 South Avenue
Petersburg, Virginia 23803
Phone (804) 732-8911
Email: jmwilkerson102@aol.com

Expression of Sympathy and Condolences can be sent to:

Mrs. Madge White
22935 Leewin
Detroit, Michigan
Email: memapopee@att.net
Phone: (313) 531-5238
Cell (313) 820-8156


29. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

Mrs. Quzie Brooks Ansorena, the mother of the Reverend Hazel Chavis, a local minister at Union Hill AME Church, Ellaville, Georgia, passed Saturday morning, August 27, 2011.

Funeral Services:

Saturday, September 3, 2011
11:00 a.m.
Union Hill AME Church
504 Will Spivey Street
Ellaville, Georgia 31806

Phone: (229) 937-2450

The Reverend Jeff Davis III, pastor
The Reverend Andre Mathis of Halls Chapel CME Church, Buena Vista, Georgia will officiate.

Professional Services provided by:

Meadows' Oglethorpe Funeral Chapel, Inc.
607 Kaigler Street, P. O. Box 8
Oglethorpe, GA 31068

Phone: (478) 472-6118
Fax: (478) 472-7964
Email: ofci@meadowsofci.com

Online Guest Book:
http://meadowsofci.com/QuzieAnsorena.html

Condolences may be sent to:

The Reverend Hazel Chavis
P. O. Box 1002
Ellaville, GA 31806
Phone: 229-937-5823

We regret to announce the passing of Mr. Charles Anthony Mootoo, the husband of Mary L. Mootoo, President of the First District Lay Organization and grandfather of the Rev. Kahlil Mootoo, pastor of Bright Temple AMEC, Bronx, New York (New York Conference, Brooklyn/West Chester District). The following information has been provided regarding funeral arrangements.

Viewing and Funeral - Saturday, September 3, 2011

Viewing - 9:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m.
Funeral - 10:00 a.m.

Macedonia AME Church
37-22 Union Street
Flushing, NY 11354
Phone: 718-353-5870
Fax: 718-353-5848

The Rev. Richard O. McEachern, Pastor

Interment immediately following Service.

Pinelawn Cemetery
2030 Wellwood Ave
Farmingdale, New York 11735

Expressions of Sympathy can be sent to:

Mrs. Mary L. Mootoo
41 Newburgh Street
Elmont, New York 11003

30. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

We regret to announce the passing of Presiding Elder Melvin Lloyd Guyton, New Brunswick District, New Jersey Annual Conference. He was the husband of Sister Bernadette Guyton, New Jersey Conference Branch YPD Director and the father of the Rev. Lanel D. Guyton, pastor of St. Paul AME Church (Bermuda Conference), the Rev. M. Lloyd Guyton, pastor of Freedom Temple AME Church (New Jersey Conference) and the brother of Presiding Elder Booker T. Guyton (Oakland-San Joaquin District, California Conference).

The following information has been provided regarding funeral arrangements.

Tuesday, September 6, 2011
Viewing - 9:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.
Funeral - 11:00 a.m.
Mt. Zion AME Church
39 Morris Street
New Brunswick, NJ 08901
The Rev. Daylan Greer, pastor

Phone: 732-249-8476
Fax: 732-246-0112

Eulogist:

The Rev. Dr. Harold R. Mayberry, Pastor of First AME Church, Oakland, CA and Chairperson of the Episcopal Committee, AME Church.

Expressions of Sympathy can be sent to:

Mrs. Bernadette Guyton and family
635 Clark Street #2
Linden, NJ 07036
Fax: 908-925-3973

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Sister's Network of Central New Jersey, 1201 Hamilton St., Somerset, NJ 08873.

Hotel Arrangements:
Hyatt Regency New Brunswick
Two Albany Street
New Brunswick, New Jersey 08901
(732) 873-1234
King - $109.00 Double - $119.00

Promo Code: Mt. Zion AME Church

31. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

Virgil E. Cummings Jr., son of the late Rev. Dr. Virgil E. Cummings and Mrs. Rose T. Cummings passed away on Monday, July 29, 2011. He is the father of Jasmine Matthews and Catherine Wilson and the brother of Valeria Cummings Swope, YPD Director, Kentucky Conference, 13th Episcopal District and the Rev. Vanessa R. Cummings, pastor in the 3rd Episcopal District. Virgil resided in Oxford, Ohio.

Services for Virgil E. Cummings, Jr.

Friday, September 2, 2011
Visitation: 10 am
Homegoing Celebration – 11 a.m.
Location - Bethel AME Church
700 Mulberry Street
Lockland, Ohio 45215
513-761-3208
513- 761-8086 (F)

The Rev. John Newby, Pastor - Officiant
The Rev. Vanessa R. Cummings - Eulogist

Burial – 1 p.m. at Woodside Cemetery
235 East Chestnut Street
Oxford, Ohio 45056

Repast - Bethel AME Church
14 South Beech Street
Oxford, Ohio 45056
513-523-8560
The Rev. Angela V. Walker-Dudley, Pastor

Condolences may be sent to:

Mrs. Rose T. Cummings and the Rev. Vanessa R. Cummings
P.O. Box 329
Oxford, Ohio 45056
Email: revgodmother@yahoo.com

Contact telephone numbers:
Mrs. Rose Cummings - 513-523-2812
The Rev. Vanessa Cummings - 513-523-1180
Valeria Cummings Swope - 859-263-9681

You may also send condolences: www.thompsonhalljordan.com (Sign Guest Book)

Arrangements are entrusted to:
Thompson, Hall & Jordan Funeral Home
Lockland Office
400 N. Wayne Ave
Lockland, Ohio 45215
Phone: (513) 761-8881
Fax: (513) 761-3707

Local Florist information:
Murrelle's Florist
208 E. Sixth St.
Cincinnati, Ohio 45202
Phone: (513) 665-4407

32. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

We regret to announce the passing of Mr. Walter Sinclair Brangman the father of the Rev. W. Ouemonde Brangman, pastor of New Zion AME Church in Milton, DE (Delaware Conference, Dover District). Brother Walter S. Brangman served as the Vice-Chair of the Board of Trustees for the Bermuda Annual Conference of the AME Churches. He was a founding member of Bright Temple AME Church. He was an Elder Statesman, a founding member of the Progressive Labor Party who served in the Government of Bermuda as an elected member of the House of Parliament representing Warwick Parish. To learn of this outstanding man you may read the front-page article of the daily news at www.royalgazette.com August 25, 2011 edition. The following information has been provided regarding funeral arrangements.

Viewing - Thursday, September 1, 2011, 4:30 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.

Bright Temple AME Church
28 Spring Hill Road
Warwick
Bermuda WK 09
P. O. Box WK114
Phone: 441-236-0364
Fax: 441-236-1322
Email: brighttemple@yahoo.com

The Rev. Deyone Douglas, Pastor

Funeral - Friday, September 2, 2011, 11:00 a.m.

First Church of God
North Shore Devonshire
Bermuda

Bishop Vernon G. Lamb, Sr., pastor

The Rev. W. Ouemonde Brangman, Eulogist

Professional care entrusted to:
Pearman Funeral Home
128 Somerset Road
Somerset, Bermuda MA06
Fax: 441-234-0422

Expressions of Sympathy can be sent to:

Mrs. Lovette Brangman
34 Lightbourne Lane
Smith's Parish, Bermuda FL02


33. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

The Funeral Arrangements for retired Presiding Elder, the Reverend Dr. Lenwood O'Daniel Saunders

- Retired Marshal, AMEC Council of Bishops
- Civil Rights Leader -

Wake:
Thursday, September 1, 2011
6-7:30 PM
St. James AME Church
1501 N. Patterson Avenue
Winston-Salem, NC 27105
(336) 724-3865 (office)
(919) 210-1758 (cell)
The Reverend Steven L. Lyons, Pastor

Russell Funeral Home:
822 Carl Russell Avenue
Winston-Salem, NC 27101-4213
(336) 722-3459 Phone
(336) 631-8268 Fax

Hotel Accommodations:
Wingate by Wyndham
125 S. Main Street
Winston-Salem, NC 27107
(336) 714-2800
Rate: $89 plus tax
Nearest Airport - Piedmont Triad Int'l
(16 miles from Winston-Salem)

Visitation:
Friday, September 2, 2011
6-8 PM
Harrison Chapel AME Church
205 Dreadnaught Street
Richlands, NC 28574
(910) 324-3892 Phone
The Reverend A.O. Carmichael, Pastor

Saunders Funeral Home:
210 Bell Fork Road
Jacksonville, NC 28540
(910) 938-2151 Phone
(910) 938-5999 Fax

Nearest airport: Pitt-Greenville Airport (28 miles from Kinston)

Funeral Service:

Saturday, September 3, 2011
11:00 a.m. (with viewing 10-11 AM)
Tabernacle Freewill Baptist Church
1003 West New Bern Road
Kinston, NC 28504
(252) 523-0000

The Right Reverend A.J. Richardson Jr., Presiding Prelate 2nd Episcopal District, Eulogist

Hotel Accommodations:
Hampton Inn 1382 US HWY 258
Kinston, NC 28504
(252) 523-1400
Rate $129 plus tax
Holiday Inn
1156 Farm Road
Kinston, NC 28504
Rate: $129 plus tax

Family contact:
Mrs. Alinda S. Goodson, Daughter
1709 Carriage Cove Lane
Winston-Salem, NC 27127
(336) 650-9693


34. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

We are saddened to share news of the passing of the Reverend Kevin Lewis Jefferson, pastor of Wayman Memorial AME Church, Baltimore, Maryland; Potomac District, Washington Conference, Second Episcopal District.

The Reverend Kevin Lewis Jefferson devoted husband of Dr. Raneesha Jefferson; beloved father of Maya, Alexis and Morgan; dear son of the late Rev. Joan H. Coates and Wade H. Jefferson; passed on August 24, 2011.

Service arrangements for the Reverend Kevin Lewis Jefferson:

Sunday, August 28, 2011
Visitation:
6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Wayman Memorial AME Church
1307 Washington Blvd.
Baltimore, Maryland

Monday, August 29, 2011
Visitation: 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM
Service: 11:30 AM - 12:30 PM

Ebenezer AME Church
7707 Allentown Road
Fort Washington, MD 20744
Phone: 301-248-8833
The Rev. Dr. Grainger Browning Jr., Pastor

Professional Services are entrusted to:

Marshall-March Funeral Home
4308 Suitland Road
Suitland, MD 20746
Phone: (301) 736-1616
Email: info@marchfh.com

Expressions of sympathy may be sent to:

Dr. Raneesha Jefferson & Family
4024 Southern Avenue, SE
Washington, DC 20020
Phone: 240-304-9262


35. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

We regretfully announce the passing of the Rev. Lovetta A. Brown, M.D., pastor in the 8th Episcopal District. Dr. Brown passed away in Milwaukee, Wisconsin after a lengthy illness on Monday, August 22, 2011. The Rev. Dr. Brown pastored several Churches in the North Mississippi Conference. Her last pastoral appointment was at Mt. Ora A.M.E. Church in Granada, Mississippi.

The funeral has been held.

Condolences may be sent to her niece:

Ms. Chytania Brown
6228 West Spencer Place
Milwaukee, Wisconsin, 53218
Email: chyabb1@sbcglobal.net
Telephone Number: (414) 536-1223


36. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

We regret to announce the passing of the Rev. Isaiah Herbert, retired pastor of the 7th Episcopal District on Sunday, August 21, 2011. He is survived by his wife, Mrs. Willie Mildred Wells Herbert; one son, Isaiah Barnett (Mildred) Herbert; six daughters: Betty Doris (Thomas) Spurgeon; Mildred Alfreda Herbert, Mary Alma Centeno-Herbert (Juan); Brenda Joyce (Bernard) Fripp; Felita Zelda Herbert (James Scipio), all of Columbia, SC; and Joe Ann (Jack) Gentry of Harrisburg, North Carolina; 16 grandchildren, 12 great-grandchildren, and one great-great grandchild.

The funeral has been held.

Expressions of sympathy to:
Mrs. Willie Mildred Herbert
1730 Gary Street
Columbia, SC 29203
(803) 754-8581

Services entrusted to:

Butler & Son Funeral Home
306 N. Bouknight Ferry Road
Saluda, SC 29138
Phone: (864) 445-2623
Fax: (864) 445-0662

37. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

We regret to share news of the passing of Sister Lula Ellis, widow of the late Rev. Lamar Ellis, retired pastor, South Ohio Conference, Third Episcopal District.

The following are arrangements for Sister Lula Ellis:

The funeral has been held.

Expressions of sympathy can be sent to the family of Sister Lula Ellis:

C/o Quinn Chapel AME Church
10998 Southland Road
Forest Park, OH 45240


38. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

We regret to announce the passing of Mrs. Eunice Lowe. She was the wife of the Rev. Vernon I. Lowe, retired Presiding Elder of the New York Annual Conference and the mother of the Rev. Robert R. Lowe, pastor of Mt. Moriah AME Church in Cambria Heights, NY (Jamaica/Long Island District, New York Conference).

The following information has been provided regarding funeral arrangements.


The funeral has been held.

Expressions of Sympathy can be sent to:

The Rev. Robert R. Lowe and family
62 Woodland Estates Drive
Baldwin, NY 11510


39. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

The Honorable Brother Walter B Harlan, Retired Maury County, Tennessee Commissioner, District 3; a longtime member of Bethel Chapel AME Church in Columbia, Tennessee passed away Sunday, August 14, 2011. He is survived by his wife, Mrs. Annie Ruth Harlan; children: Mrs. Devora Barner ( Rev. Talvin Barner, Jr.); Mrs. Cheryl Goodman (the Rev. Victor Goodman, Pastor, Wayman Chapel AME Church, Columbia); Mrs. Jacqueline (Shirley) Jones; Mr. Gerard (Debbie); Mr. Winston (Jerica); and Mr. Warren (Vickie) Harlan.

The funeral has been held.

Expressions of sympathy may be sent to:

Mrs. Annie Ruth Harlan and Family
502 East 10th Street
Columbia, Tennessee 38401

Telephone: 931-381-8376

Mrs. Devora Barner: revtalvin@hotmail.com
Mrs. Cheryl Goodman: vwgoodman1218@yahoo.com


40. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

Mr. Demetrius Antoine Freeman, age 41, of Lithonia, Georgia died Saturday, August 13, 2011. He is survived by his mother, Mrs. Carole A. Bryant; his father, the Rev. Ronald Freeman (Gloria), Pastor of New Zion Hill AME Church in Thomson, Georgia; four sisters, 1 brother; his paternal grandmother, Mrs. Annie B. Freeman; and his maternal grandfather, Mr. Ralph Allen, Sr.

Mr. Demetrius Antoine Freeman's funeral was held at the Antioch East Baptist Church in Atlanta, Georgia on Saturday, August 20th.

Condolences may be mailed to:

The Rev. Ronald Freeman
1922 Chester Avenue
Augusta, GA 30906

Telephone: 706-267-3007

Or to:

Mrs. Carole A. Bryant
2151 Pintail Drive
Lithonia, Georgia 30058-3535

Telephone: 770-981-2528


41. 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


42. 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.

THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER ONLINE ENGLISH EDITION (8/12/11)

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

--Where Bishops and General Officers will be preaching—

- Bishop Vashti Murphy McKenzie, Presiding Prelate of the 13th Episcopal District will be the guest preacher at Vernon Chapel African Methodist Episcopal Church, 18500 Norwood in Detroit, Michigan on Sunday, August 14, 2011 – 10:00 a.m.

-- 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.

1. EDITORIAL – “THE AME CHURCH HAS SUCH A BRILLIANT MODEL…”:


Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III
The 20th Editor of The Christian Recorder

Is there any such a thing as African Methodist Episcopal worship? Should there be? Should a member of the African Methodist Episcopal Church expect to be able to identify African Methodist Episcopal worship anywhere in the world in a church that is listed and identified as an AME Church?

Since the African Methodist Episcopal Church is a connectional church shouldn’t we presuppose or take for granted that there is a connectedness or something universal about us as a denomination that makes us different from churches that function as independent entities?

If a member of the African Methodist Episcopal Church visited an African Methodist Episcopal Church and could not identify any semblance African Methodist Episcopal worship, wouldn’t one expect that person to be perturbed? Do we, as members of the African Methodist Episcopal Church, have the right to expect some semblance or connectivity of AME worship? My answer to all of the questions is, “Yes!” African Methodist Episcopal worship all over the world should have connectivity. The Discipline on Page 483 says, “Our order of worship is intended to be flexible so as to provide for richness and variety of content. At the same time, it must have such unity as to insure that all members of our church will feel at home in any AME Church.”

I have observed and heard a lot of discussion about the worship services in many of our churches. People ask, “What is AME worship?” Even some preachers have asked that question, “What is AME worship?”

What is African Methodist Episcopal worship?

The question should never have to be asked by a member of the African Methodist Episcopal Church and it should never be asked by AME clergy.

Before I provide the answer about AME worship, let me say that our Zion, along with many other religious and secular organizations, is guilty of making at least two mistakes.

We don’t follow our own rules; we make rules, but so often we don’t follow them and we don’t always follow The Discipline, which reminds me of a statement made by Sister Orletta E. Caldwell of the 4th Episcopal District who said, “The AME Church has such a brilliant model and we just blow it.”

The second mistake we make is that we don’t utilize the notion or the rule of deterrence. Clergy and laity break the rules and they are not chastised or punished; and as a result others feel they can get away with breaking the rules; and they do. And, when people are not held accountable, they have no fear of breaking the rules.

But, for those who may be asking the question “Is there such a thing as African Methodist Episcopal worship?” The answer is a resounding, “Yes, there is worship defined as African Methodist Episcopal worship!”

The definition and rubric for the African Methodist Episcopal worship is found in The Book of Discipline of the African Methodist Episcopal Church 2008 beginning on Page 483; which is why it is inappropriate for the question of “What is African Methodist Episcopal worship?” to be asked by AME clergy, because if a clergy person asks the question, it means that he or she has not read The Discipline. If a member of the AME laity asks the question, it means that they have not been taught about AME worship by the pastoral leadership and they have not read The Discipline.

The intent of The Discipline and the AMEC Book of Worship is clear

It is clear that the “mothers and fathers” of the African Methodist Episcopal Church wanted African Methodist Episcopal worship to consistent across the denomination and that’s the reason The Order of Morning Worship has been put in The Discipline, the A.M.E. Hymnal, and the AMEC Book of Worship. In the older Disciplines, the worship liturgy section was called “Worship and Ritual.”

The liturgical acts of worship that make a worship African Methodist Episcopal are: the Doxology; the “Call to Worship”; the Opening Hymn from the AME Hymnal; prayer before the scripture; the Preface Hymn to the Decalogue; the Decalogue; the Gloria Patri; the Offertory (Hymn numbers 644, 645, and 646 are listed); and the Doxology.

The Abridged Decalogue consists of the First Commandment, “Nearer My God to Thee,” and the Summary of the Decalogue). The Summary of the Decalogue is the words of Jesus found in Matthew 22: 37-40. In the case of both, the Abridged or the Summary of the Decalogue, the Preface Hymn and the Gloria Patri will be sung. These acts of worship make worship uniquely AME! If those liturgical movements are parts of the worship liturgy anywhere in the world, any AME would be able to recognize the worship as being African Methodist Episcopal worship.

The other liturgical acts of worship: the prayer, scripture lessons, anthem, choir selection, altar call, notices and announcements, hymn of preparation, the sermon, invitation to discipleship, the offering are acts of worship practiced by most churches and definitely Protestant churches; and we expect those to be a part of the AME worship experience.

Why does the question of “What is AME worship” surface?

The question surfaces because some local churches and pastors have eliminated or abridged the worship service to the point that the worship service is not an AME worship service.

Some pastors have eliminated the Decalogue because they think, especially the full Decalogue, makes the service too long. I suspect that some churches have no idea about the contents of the full Decalogue. I find it hard to understand why pastors are so quick to abbreviate the Word of God. The problem of the shortening the worship service might be solved by cutting back the length of some of the choir selections, the announcements and maybe even the sermon.

Other practices

Some pastors have “manufactured” other practices into the AME liturgy. For example, I have heard, but have not witnessed myself, that a pastor asked the parishioners to remain seated for the Doxology. Another pastor had all of the parishioners stand at the altar to receive Communion with the explanation “We are going to do it differently today.” I have also heard about a pastor who decided to read the scripture before the prayer with the same explanation, “We are going to do it differently today.” And, there are pastors who forego the sermon so that the choir can sing in place of the sermon. And, one of the most unbelievable things I heard several months ago was the report of a pastor who asked the people to remain seated for the Decalogue; I found that hard to believe.

Some pastors have parishioners to remain in their pews for the altar call. I am guessing that might be done in the interest of time. But, if the people are not going to the altar, it’s just a congregational prayer. If parishioners don’t go to the altar, it’s not an altar call. Talking about altar calls, there are pastors who talk and talk all through the altar call without giving the people an opportunity to talk with God one-on-one, which is so needed today in this world of hustle and bustle. Now, I have seen instances where a preacher gave another sermon during the altar call; and even gave another invitation to discipleship. And when I am invited to the altar; preacher, please stop talking and let me have a private conversation with God. Organist, please no “shout chords”; there’s a time to shout and there is a time to pray. Altar call is a time to pray.

I suspect that most of us have seen pastors, and some of us have done it ourselves; rush through the call to worship, the reading of the scriptures, and the Decalogue. Rushing through the liturgy is not worship. Worship is taking time to expose the goodness and power of God in the lives of those who attend worship and who need to hear a Word from the Lord. I read in the newspaper, a statement made by a minister who described growing congregations. He said, “People in a growing congregation leave the worship service, not thinking about how great the sermon was, but rather leave church thinking about the awesomeness and power of God.”

And, preacher be careful about using the sports event analogy. When I am in worship, I am not cheering for my football team to win, I am trying to get in touch with God; to ask God to forgive me for the evil thoughts that come to my mind. I want to ask God to help me to be a better person and help me to be more spiritual.

I reaffirmed my commitment as a Christian at a young age in the AME Church because I felt comfortable with the worship and Mission of the African Methodist Episcopal Church; that has not changed. I want to worship as an AME with the AME worship experience.

My spiritual focus is holiness, not charisma; and there is a difference. My focus is upon Wesleyan Holiness. I believe holiness was the spiritual focus for Richard Allen, the early AMEs; and is today, for committed AMEs. The emphasis of the holiness movement was, and is, upon holy living.

John Wesley stressed both, faith and good works; personal devotions; partaking of the sacrament; personal piety, love and harmony with neighbors; social action; justification and sanctification; evangelism and spiritual growth; religious maturity; and spiritual commitment. Sounds like the emphasis we have in our Discipline.

In the context of the holiness movement, the first work of grace is salvation from sin, and without grace holiness cannot be achieved. We are saved by grace through faith in Jesus Christ who made atonement for human sins. By God’s grace, we can become more holy through the presence and work of the Holy Spirit. I want worship to focus on grace, salvation, sin, forgiveness, and holy living. I need to be reinforced, by Word and Sacrament, to be the best Christian that I can be; I don’t need to hear televangelists’ clichés. I need to hear the Word of God.

When was the last time you heard a sermon about the first work of grace and the second work of grace? When was the last sermon you heard about atonement, salvation, forgiveness, or sin? Authentic AME worship includes sermons that deal with the hard theological and biblical issues more than with helping parishioners “get their praises on.”

We have an excellent preaching resource, which I suspect is not being utilized; the Lectionary, No. 796 in the AME Hymnal. If preachers worked with the texts in the Lectionary reading, congregations would get wide range of sermons and it would force pastors to deal with issues other than their “pet” themes and would get parishioners through the Bible over a three-year period.

Authentic AME Worship centers on prayer. The Book of Discipline of the African Methodist Episcopal Church 2008 on Page 483 says, “Let all those who come join in the service reverently and discreetly after having first knelt, if able, or bowed in silent prayer.”

If we are serious about our Mission as written in The Discipline, The African Methodist Episcopal Church should be seen as a thermostat instead of a thermometer; we should set the spiritual and moral “climate” instead of adjusting to whatever spiritual and moral climate is “out there.” Episcopal Supervisor Earnestine Henning appropriately said, “The AME Church can show the way, only as a model for the world; not as a mirror of the world.”

Other denominations copy, not only our worship, but they copy the model of our governance and episcopacy. Some of our churches and pastors are “throwing away” our biblical foundations, traditions, customs and history without understanding why they were implemented by the “mothers and fathers” of the Church; while others imitate, celebrate, and implement our traditions and customs. I saw a COGIC flyer this past week and the bishops, in their clerical collars looked like AME Bishops; that would not have been the case 20 years ago. The AME Church should be a “model and a thermostat” for the religious and moral climate of our communities and for the world.

The Discipline says, “Our order of worship is intended to be flexible so as to provide for richness and variety of content. At the same time, it must have such unity as to insure that all members of our church will feel at home in any AME Church. For this purpose, we present a basic form of worship within which our ministers may make such additions as needed for their own situation.” (The Discipline, Page 483) Additions may be made as appropriate, but nothing is mentioned about subtracting or taking things out of the worship experience.

Sister Orletta E. Caldwell makes a great point, “The AME Church has such a brilliant model, but so many of us just continue to blow it.”


2. READER RESPONSE TO EDITORIAL AND OTHER ISSUES:

- To the Editor:

RE: The Cliché-Driven Morning Worship Experience

Clichés delivered dramatically and forcefully are not God’s Word and should not be used as substitutes for theological discourse.

Hurray for Dr. Shiver, Jr. He is so correct because I have heard too many sermons that are filled with clichés as the crux or the majority of the sermon. Since our congregants are so educated that they can decipher the difference between fluff and theology, preachers really need to do a better job; after all we are representing the Master Teacher.

The Rev. Velma E Grant

- To the Editor:

RE: TCR News Break - In this economic climate, the African Methodist Episcopal Church needs a strategy; we are not in a “Business as usual” climate

We should not fear the economic climate, but we should develop and have 21st Century strategies. The AME Church is a global denomination, but sometimes we operate like a neighborhood garden club. We had better grow up and stop playing around. This recession has made every other organization and individual I know, change their modus operandi except for our Zion. I am appalled that we still have the same systems in place that we have had for decades. We are in an era where we have gone from CDs to MP3 in less than a decade. I can’t think of moment that we stopped and look at items such as do we need Official Boards; getting a website that is useable? And why do we even need a 10 day General Conference?

I feel that if the leadership doesn’t start making some tough decision; decisions will be made for us.

Orletta E. Caldwell
Detroit, Michigan

3. TCR ONLINE CAN BE READ MORE EFFICIENTLY ON MOBILE PHONES, IPADS AND OTHER MOBILE DEVICES:

Subscribers and readers of The Christian Recorder are now able to read The Christian Recorder Online more clearly on your mobile phones. Thanks to Dr. Mark Tyler, pastor of Mother Bethel AME Church, for sharing with us how to adjust the setting for TCR Online to be read more efficiently on mobile phones.

Enjoy reading The Christian Recorder Online on your mobile devices.


4. "THE JESSE L. BURNS BLACK TIE SOIREE" BENEFIT FOR PAUL QUINN COLLEGE:

"The Jesse L. Burns Black Tie Soiree" Benefit for Paul Quinn College, Dallas, Texas will be held at the 32nd Biennial CLO Meeting on Tuesday, August 16, 2011.

"The Jesse L. Burns Black Tie Soiree" Benefit for Paul Quinn College, Dallas, Texas will be held on Tuesday, August 16, 2011 at 6 p.m. - 8:45 p.m. The event will be held at the Detroit Marriott at the Renaissance Center in Detroit, Michigan. The $100.00 Ticket Donation includes a ticket to the Kurt Carr Concert.
Contact for Tickets or Donations:

Mrs. Valerie Gary Bell, Chairperson (vbell346@aol.com)
Mrs. Doris Bell, Co-Chairperson
Bishops, General Officers, and Connectional Officers can see their District Lay President for tickets.


** Submitted by Mrs. Valerie Gary Bell, Chairperson (vbell346@aol.com)


5. TWO AME CHAPLAINS PROVIDED GRIEF MINISTRY TO THE FAMILIES OF THE NAVY SEALS THAT WERE KILLED IN AFGHANISTAN:

Chaplain David Brown (2nd Episcopal District) and Chaplain Christilene Whalen (5th Episcopal District) provided grief ministry at Dover Air Force Base in support to the families of the Navy Seals that were killed in Afghanistan last week.

Chaplain Whalen and Chaplain Brown were part of a team of chaplains representing the Navy Chief of Chaplains office. Chaplain Brown said, “About 500 family members and military persons attended the solemn dignified transfer ceremony in a flight line hangar on the base. Distinguished guests included the President of the United States, Secretary of Defense, Secretary of the Navy and the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff.”

Bishop John White, Ecumenical & Urban Affairs Officer of the African Methodist Episcopal Church expressed his appreciation for Chaplain Brown and Chaplain Whalen’s ministry. He said, “Thank you both for providing grief ministry support to the families of the Navy Seals that were killed in Afghanistan last week. I want to commend both of you for being a part of the team of chaplains representing the Navy Chief of Chaplains Office. The African Methodist Episcopal Church is very proud of you and praise God for your ministry to the men and women and their families who serve our country.”

6. INFORMATION NEEDED FROM CANDIDATES FOR THE OFFICE OF BISHOP, GENERAL OFFICER, EPISCOPAL COMMITTEE CHAIR, OR THE JUDICIAL COUNCIL:

The General Conference will meet in Nashville, Tennessee June 27 – July 4, 2012


Candidate Information:

The deadline to complete the registration requirements as a candidate for election to the office of Bishop, General Officer, Episcopal Committee Chair, or the Judicial Council is December 27, 2011.

Please submit the following to the General Secretary and Chief Information Officer on or before that date:

- A letter declaring the office for which you are a candidate

- A letter from your Presiding Bishop, if you are a minister, stating that you are “in good and regular standing” with your Annual Conference, and indicating your present place of service.

- A letter from your Pastor, if are a lay person, stating that you are “in good standing in the congregation.”

- Have the Health Department or the Department of Vital Statistics of your birth county or state to send directly to the Office of the General Secretary and Chief Information Officer a certified copy of your birth certificate. XEROX copies that you have on-hand will not be accepted.

- A copy of your college and Seminary transcripts. Candidates for Episcopal Service must possess an earned seminary degree from an Association of Theological Schools (ATS) accredited seminary or, if outside the US, an accredited seminary as determined by the country in which he or she is educated.

- A copy of your Elder’s Ordination Certificate. The Presiding Bishop’s name, and the name and number of the Annual Conference must be legible.

- A recent black and white photograph (glossy).

**Submitted by the Office of the General Secretary


7. WELCOME TO THE WEBSITE FOR THE DEDICATION OF THE MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR. NATIONAL MEMORIAL:

The Dedication of the Memorial on the National Mall in Washington, DC will take place at 11 a.m. on Sunday, August 28, 2011, and this site is your official information resource:

http://www.dedicatethedream.org/site/c.4nJHJQPoEiKWE/b.6715605/k.BDE7/Home.htm?gclid=CM6Btc-PyqoCFYwR2godK2U91Q

The Dedication promises to be a historic event for the U.S. and nations around the world, as Dr. King’s vision and timeless beliefs continue to resonate with people of all lands. World leaders, civil rights pioneers, citizens who remember the hard days of segregation and those leading the next generation closer to Dr. King’s dream, will assemble together for the long-awaited celebration and remembrance.

This ceremony will be the culmination of a week of events, inspired by the establishment of a permanent honor to one of our nation’s greatest citizen leaders. Dr. King was a profound teacher, whose lessons were anchored in the primacy of human dignity. He enacted irreversible social change and led our country forward, relying exclusively on non-violent means. The Memorial will be a lasting tribute to Dr. King’s legacy and will forever serve as a monument to the freedom, opportunity and justice for which he stood.
Whether you live in the Washington, DC area, or are planning to visit for this momentous occasion, this website will offer the latest available information to help you plan. Please visit often, for it will be updated frequently as Dedication planning progresses.

We look forward to sharing with you a joyous and historic day for our nation.

Sincerely,

Harry E. Johnson, Sr.
President & CEO
Washington, DC Martin Luther King, Jr. National Memorial Project Foundation, Inc.

8. METROPOLITAN AME CHURCH MARTIN LUTHER KING MEMORIAL DEDICATION PROGRAM:

Sunday, August 28, 2011

Pre-Dedication worship service

Worship Service at Metropolitan AME Church, 8-9:15 a.m.; the Rev. Grainger Browning, Pastor of Ebenezer AME, Ft. Washington, Maryland, Preaching; and AME Bishops attending and presiding.

Location: 1518 M Street, NW, Washington, DC [Free parking across the street from the church];
Metro rail: Blue-Orange lines; Red line

Time: Sunday, August 28, 2011, 8 a.m.-9:15 a.m.

Attire: [Cool, loose fitting clothing, soft-soled comfortable shoes, sunscreen if you plan to attend follow-up events on Mall

Cost: Free and open to the public

Pre-Dedication Musical Tribute

Preceding the official Dedication of the Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial, the concert will pay tribute to the life, the dream and the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

Location: West Potomac Park
Time: Sunday, August 28, 10 a.m. - 11 a.m.
Attire: Cool, loose fitting clothing, soft-soled comfortable shoes, sunscreen
Cost: Free and open to the public

Official Dedication Ceremony of the Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial

Location: West Potomac Park
Time: Sunday, August 28, 11 a.m.
Attire: Cool, loose fitting clothing, soft-soled comfortable shoes, sunscreen
Cost: Free and open to the public

Concert on the Mall

Post-Dedication concert featuring noted artists.
Location: West Potomac Park
Time: Sunday, August 28, 2 p.m. - 4 p.m.
Attire: Cool, loose fitting clothing, soft-soled comfortable shoes, sunscreen
Cost: Free and open to the public

9. TRIBUTE TO AN ANGEL - RECAP OF THE HOMEGOING OF DR. DAWN DELLA DEVEAUX:

The Rev. Velma E. Grant

Monday, the day after Sunday, an ordinary day when most people drag their feet to attend school or show up at the workplace dreading the onset of a long week of schoolwork or routine assignments. Monday, August 1, 2011 was not an ordinary Monday but it was a special day that family, friends, and supporters gathered to say farewell to an inspiring angel in the person of Dr. Dawn Della DeVeaux. Dr. Dawn DeVeaux, the mother of Ryanne Patricia Thomas, was the oldest child of Bishop William Phillips and Dr. Patricia Ann Morris DeVeaux. She was born on March 10, 1962 and died unexpectedly on July 24, 2011. Her home going celebration was a testament of the life that this angel truly lived, it was filled with tears, moments of reflection, and laughter coupled with the love of so many that will miss the encouragement of Dr. Dawn.

Turner Chapel AME Church in Marietta, Georgia was the location for the services and the very capable pastor, the Rev. Kenneth Marcus was the presiding preacher of the homegoing celebration. In his own unique style, the Rev. Marcus reminded those present that they were there to celebrate the life of Dr. Dawn and the tone was set for the celebration with the opening hymn Time Is Filled with Swift Transition. The Turner Chapel Choir as well as musicians did an outstanding job with all musical selections.

It was truly awesome to view the many Bishops (active and retired), General Officers and Connectional Officers (active and retired), Episcopal Supervisors (active and retired) Presiding Elders, pastors/preachers visitors and friends from across the Connection. Truly, the presence of so many on a Monday morning underscores the reason why the AME Church is a “Connectional Church.” People arrived from Florida, Texas, Alabama, Tennessee and other states to show love in the form of ministry of presence to the DeVeaux family. Our hands and hearts extend from state to state, city-to-city, town to region and from sea to shining sea.

Bishops present included Preston Williams, James Davis, Gregory Ingram, Henry Belin, Jr., T. Larry Kirkland, Frank Cummings, John Adams, Frederick Talbot, and Robert Webster. General Officers and Connectional Officers present included the Rev. Dr. Clement Fugh; the Rev. Dr. Dennis Dickerson, the Rev. Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor, III, the Rev. Dr. Teresa Fry Brown, the Rev. Lola Russell, and Dr. Jamye Coleman Williams. Spouses of the above included Dr. Dolly Adams; Mrs. Lucinda Belin; Mrs. Martha Cummings and the Rev. Dr. Charlotte B. Sydnor. It is truly a testament of love when so many individuals take the time out of their busy schedules to share in the sorrow and at the same time celebrate a life well lived.

Presiding Elder Benjamin Ridley led the congregation in prayer and the Old Testament Scripture of Psalm (46) was read by the Rev. Dr. W.J. McClain, pastor of Saint Paul AME Church, Macon, Georgia, (where Dawn was an active member). The Epistle of I Corinthians 15: 50-58 was read by the Rev. Dr. William Campbell, pastor of Anderson Chapel AME Church, Killeen, Texas. Dr. Campbell was also a close friend of Dr. DeVeaux since the days when they were children and their fathers served as pastors in Massachusetts. The Rev. Dr. Debora F. Grant, pastor of Saint John AME Church in Columbus, Georgia, read the Gospel of John 14: 1-6. Each preacher read with eloquence and with a style that befit the occasion.

The Scripture readings were followed by a Presidential Proclamation given by Dr. Larry E. Rivers, President of Fort Valley State University where Dr. Dawn was an Assistant Professor of Speech and Public Speaking. Love and respect for Dr. Dawn was evident from the members of the Fort Valley community who showed up in large numbers wearing yellow lapel ribbons.

The reflections were both humorous and touching and the personality of Dawn DeVeaux was consistent as each person offered insight into the relationship that they had with Dr. Dawn. Ms. Arletha Williams, Fort Valley State University said that Dr. Dawn was an advocate of women and people of color. Ms. Williams encouraged the hearers to “find multiple people to pour yourself into like Dawn did...tell people…show them that you love them…” The next person, Mr. Ashley Ballard, Lay Organization said that some of the favorite words of Dr. Dawn included “…fantastic, super, amazing...” He also told the hearers to remember the warm and personal spirit of his friend Dr. Dawn Della DeVeaux.

Dr. Dee Dawkins Haigler identified as “sister-friend” to Dawn, said that Dawn was committed to nor only her family but her friends. The Rev. Dr. Haigler said “…Dawn chased the darkness of ignorance away with her staunch devotion to womanism and the life of the mind…also understanding that young black males were key to the betterment of the black community.”

Next, family friend Bishop Frank C. Cummings, offered heartfelt words when he told the hearers “…we have come to celebrate the life of someone special…if you want to know the mission of the AME Church, look at the life of Dr. Dawn, the body of Christ come today to share…by his stripes we are healed…she moved from a PK to a professor and moved to paradise…”

Sisters Dana DeVeaux Harris and Robin DeVeaux Morton also offered words of reflection recounting the love that they each had for their sister and the love that she shared with them as a big sister. Dana shared that Dawn was her first friend and her memory keeper, one who gave so much of herself to many. Robin shared that Dawn was not only the aunt of her children but that she was also the God-Mother of Robin’s children. Robin also shared one of Dawn’s many quotes “always be a little kinder than necessary.”

John 14; 1-4 was the text used by the eulogist, the Rev. Ronald L. Slaughter, pastor of Saint James AMEC, Newark, New Jersey. The title, “A Prescription for a Troubled Heart!” was meant for not only Dawn’s family and friends but also it was applicable even to the eulogist since he was the former pastor of Dr. Dawn as well as a surrogate brother. Pastor Slaughter preached and the love for his surrogate sister was evident as he recounted humorous incidents and conversations with Dr. Dawn.

He said “…a fruitful faithful family life relationship Dawn invested in my life… Dawn became my angel by day and by night…she would go out of her way for anyone that she came in contact with…Dawn loved to transform your psychology…she trained Ryanne to become a thinker…Dawn didn’t have a license to preach but you couldn’t tell…her ecclesiastic life matched her domestic life, she practiced what she preached…Jesus offers words of hope to the disciples who have become his family..I parallel Dawn’s life to Jesus with no apology (1) Believe in God because God is qualified and knows what it feels like to lose a child and love one...believe in God even when you do not understand what God is doing..God has the ability to get you through … who else to trust but God who knows what it feels like to lose a child…(2) Believe in Jesus because he’s right here, right now and will be here later to walk you through this moment…Jesus is saying I am literally sitting right here, Jesus is here as a comforter, here right now, when everyone else is gone, I’ll be right here…(3) Believe that Dawn is in a better place…there is no need to wonder where Dawn is…she’s in a place where Jesus was the architect and built a room specifically for her…”

Death is always not an easy thing to embrace especially when the deceased is loved and has such an impact on the lives of many individuals, but as Christians, it is during such times when we are reminded about the importance of community. Yes, we are indeed our brothers and sisters keeper and the koinonia (the Christian fellowship or body of believers) will be here to support the DeVeaux family and all other families that are experiencing the anguish of grief.


10. METROPOLITAN AME CHURCH SERVICE TO CELEBRATE “DREAM AND DREAMER”:

Dr. Grainger Browning and Bishop Adam Richardson at Metropolitan Service to Celebrate “Dream & Dreamer” on Aug. 28

Free Parking and Transportation will be provided to the MLK Memorial

When an expected 250,000 persons converge on the Nation’s Capitol on August 28 for the unveiling of the National Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial, Metropolitan A.M.E. Church will host a special worship service to celebrate “The Dream and the Dreamer” prior to the official opening on the Mall. The Rev. Dr. Grainger Browning of Ebenezer A.M.E. Church will be guest preacher and Bishop Adam J. Richardson will give Episcopal remarks.

The worship service at Metropolitan, located at 1518 M St. NW., begins at 8 a.m. and ends at 9:30 a.m. The official unveiling ceremony is scheduled to begin at 11 a.m. At the close of the worship service, Metropolitan will offer free shuttle buses from the church to the drop-off point that is closest to the memorial site on the National Mall.

“As the National Cathedral of African Methodism, Metropolitan invites African Methodists from across the Connection to join us for this special Sunday Worship,” said the Rev. Dr. Ronald E. Braxton, senior pastor. “Our sanctuary and church have been restored and modernized, and all the while we have honored the labor of those enslaved African Americans whose original handiwork and devotion made our church the great edifice that it is.”


11. THE REV. GLORIA SYDNOR SMITH PREACHER AT UNITED THEOLOGICAL SEMINARY:

The Rev. Gloria Sydnor Smith, Esq., pastor of Whitman Chapel AME Church in Belpre, Ohio will be the preacher for the Summer Intensive Week at United Theological Seminary. The worship service will be held on Thursday, August 18, 2011 at 8:00 a.m. The Summer Intensives are held at the Marriott Hotel on S. Patterson Blvd., in Dayton, Ohio.


12. THE ELECTED OFFICIALS OF THE WOMEN’S MISSIONARY SOCIETY OF AFRICAN METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH FOR 2011-2015:

The Newly-Elected Connectional WMS Officers for 2011 – 2015:

Dr. Shirley Cason Reed, International President,
Ms. Deborah Taylor King, 1st Vice President
Ms. Lesa Halfacre, 2nd Vice President
Ms. Deborah. Taylor-King, 3rd Vice President
Ms. Annie Battle Bolden, Recording Secretary
Ms. Tanya T. Harper, Assistant Recording Secretary
Ms. Yvonne Stovall, Corresponding Secretary
Ms. Jeanette Harris, Treasurer
Attorney Ida Tyree Hyche, International Editor
Ms. Potlako "PJ" Molomo, Assistant Editor
Dr. Sherell Vicks Crawford Director, Young People’s Division
Ms. Frances H. Cofield, Historiographer
Ms. Marlyce A. Roberson-McCants, Worship Director
Ms. Corinne W. Thomas, Director, Promotion & Missionary Education
Miss Erica Austin, Member-At-Large

WMS Contact Information:

The Women’s Missionary Society
1134 Eleventh Street, N.W.
Washington, D.C. 20001

Telephone: 202-371-8886
FAX: 202-371-8820
Email: wmsamec@aol.com

*Information provided by Attorney Ida Tyree Hyche, International Editor


13. WHAT SHALL I RENDER?:

Robert T. Matthews, III

When we turn to the Lectionary Readings for the Season of Easter, found in Selection No. 795 of the AMEC Hymnal or the more recently Revised Common Lectionary, we will find what, to many, will appear to be a most unusual and odd discovery. What we discover is that the Scriptural Readings for this seven-week period do not contain any readings from the Hebrew Bible--commonly known as the Old Testament.

In other words, with the exception of Easter Sunday and the Day of Pentecost, Old Testament Scriptures are usually not read during the seven week (fifty day) Season of Easter in the Christian Church. These Old Testament Readings during this Season are usually replaced by a reading from the book of Acts, followed by a reading from the Epistle or I Peter, I John or Revelation and a Gospel reading from John, Luke or Mark, depending upon which Year of the Lectionary Cycle in which they occur. This is verified by the Selection #795 of the AMEC Hymnal, The AMEC Book of Worship or the more recently Revised Common Lectionary of the entire Christian Church—both Catholic and Protestant, The reason for this is that when Jesus was crucified and rose again from the dead, the laws and precepts found in Old Testament Scripture were completely and unequivocally fulfilled.

There are only two exceptions to this rule of excluding the Old Testament Reading from the Season of Easter year after year. The first is a reading from the Book of Psalms, which does not contain laws and precepts but songs and poetics works of praise. The other exception is the Decalogue, which is a moral and eternal law that Jesus expounded upon and raised to a new level of understanding for his followers in His teaching like the Scriptural passage we hear read in the Summary of the Decalogue. Since these are morally eternal laws, not “Mosaic Law”, we still hear them read during the Season of Easter in our Church.

This then brings us the subject of Christian giving and what is inaccurately called “Tithing” in the Church. The fact is that Tithing is no where taught in the New Testament because it was permanently and forever nailed to the Cross. The following facts will bear this out.

1) The Old Testament concept of tithing was not basically monetary but one of giving of livestock and crops.

2) Tithes could only be made to the Levitical Priesthood for their own sustenance and support.

3) None of the 'tithing' that occurs now has any connection to the definition of tithing contained in the Bible other than to mention 10%. In a nutshell, there were three tithes from some of the Israelites and a 4th from the Levites to the Levitical priests.

4) The Levitical tithe required those who raised crops (not everyone and not all professions--just those who raised crops) to give 10% of that to the Levites. This tithe only occurred 6 years out of the 7-year-cycle. It also required those that raised 10 or more animals to give each tenth animal that passed under the rod to the Levites. If a person raised less than 10 animals, they were not required to tithe.

5) From what was given to them, the Levites in turn had to give a tenth of the very best to the priests.

6) The festival tithe required that those who raised crops or animals to set aside 10% for the annual festivals.

7) The poor tithe occurred only in the 3rd year of the seven year cycle. This was set aside for the poor.

8) All tithes were always food and NEVER money even though they did have money and silver back then; but everybody did not raise crops for a living so they did not tithe. (Should the Church Teach Tithing? - Kelley, Russell E., Ph.D.)

9) The Bible Law stipulated that if one wished to convert the tithe to money that a fifth part must be added to it. Thus rendering it to be 12-percent and not 10 percent because the Levites would have to use the money to purchase what would have been provided by livestock and crops and placed into storehouses for their use (Leviticus 27:3).

That having been said, I cannot ever remember the word tithing being mentioned with giving in my local church when I grew up. The term only seemed to have made it way into the Church with the creation of the “mega churches” and their “Prosperity Theology.”

Churches today generally teach their members to give a tenth, or a tithe of their income to the church and to give offerings above the tithe to special causes within the church or wherever or to whatever they want to give. This belief travels well in independent and charismatic churches and crosses denominational barriers; even in the AME Church. The one thing upon which they all can agree is that the tithe assists church boards in preparing balanced budgets in the same manner as profit-making corporations and businesses. But is it Scriptural? (Should the Church Teach Tithing/ Kelley, Russell E., Ph.D) Can it be “read in the (New Testament) Scriptures or proved thereby?” (See Article of Religion #5).

There are 16 verses from 11 chapters and 8 books from Leviticus 27 to Luke 11 that describe the contents of the holy tithe. However, those contents never included money, silver, gold or anything other than food from inside land of Israel! It came from the increase of what God produced in livestock and crops, and not from man’s craft or abilities (Should the Church Teach Tithing?).

Although Matthew bridges the gap between the Old and New Testaments the New Covenant did not begin when Jesus was born, but rather when Jesus died. The term tithe is never used in New Testament Scripture--even in the teaching of Jesus--except where it refers to the Old Testament Law, which both Jesus and all who heard Him were obligated to follow until He died on the Cross. You will find examples of this in Matthew 23:23 and Luke 11:42 or the Parable in Luke 18:12. However Tithing is never mentioned again after Jesus died on the Cross. Like blood offering and animal sacrifice and all other things pertaining to the “Law”, tithing was “nailed to His Cross and we bear it no more”

Today even Jews do not tithe and further state that they cannot tithe because they are no longer agricultural and they have no Levitical Priesthood to with they may tithe. This of course, as we Christians know, is because God also removed the Levitical priesthood with the death of Jesus on the Cross, making Jesus the One and Only High Priest and giving the authority of the priesthood to everyone who believe (I Peter 2:9). That is through the “Priesthood of All Believers,” as it is known in the Christian church.

So it is not in the least surprising that major theologians throughout the ages have been opposed to tithing or its perceived equivalent being used in reference to giving in the Christian church. The list of those theologians is quite extensive but it includes Justin Martyr, Irenaeus, Tertullian, Thomas Aquinas, Martin Luther, Charles H. Spurgeon, John Wesley, Lewis Sperry Chafer, C. I. Scofield, Theodore Epp, Robert A. Baker, Russell Earl Kelly, Richard Lenski, Zola Levitt, J. Stephen Lang and Billy Graham to mention a few of them (Should the Church Teach Tithing?: Kelley, Russell E., Ph.D.).

The thinking of this group of theologians is perhaps best summed up by John MacArthur of the Moody Bible Institute in his Bible Commentary when he wrote: “Christians are not under obligation to give a specified amount to the work of their heavenly Father. In none of their forms do the tithes or other Old Testament levies apply to Christians."

With the upcoming General Conference, the AME Church, too, ought to use this opportunity to correct this error and delete any reference of percentage giving or tithing as form of Christian giving from our Doctrine and Discipline, just as we did when we broke through the almost universally guarded stain-glassed ceiling with the election of women to the bishopric.

Let us stand fast in the liberty wherewith Christ has set us free; and be no longer encumbered with the yoke of it (Galatians 5:1)--lest in our attempt to keep the (Mosaic) Law, we become accursed rather than being blessed by that law (Galatians 3:10).

The question might arise, “If that be done; what shall I render; what shall I give? The best answer, perhaps not only comes from the song to which the title of this article alludes; but it also comes from John Wesley, Jesus, and Saint Paul.

In 1 Corinthians 16:1-2, Paul gives the following instruction for giving in the Church, both for the support of the ministry and the missionary work. “Now about the collection for the Lord’s people: Do what I told the Galatian churches to do. On the first day of every week, each one of you should set aside a sum of money in keeping with your income, saving it up, so that when I come no collections will have to be made” (NIV).

In 2 Corinthians 9:6-7 Saint Paul give us the following standard of how Christians out to give. “Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously. Each man should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver” (NIV).

The ultimate plan for Christian giving come from Our Lord, Jesus in Luke 6:38. “Give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over, shall men give into your bosom. For with the same measure that ye mete withal it shall be measured to you again” (KJV).

And so from these passages we see that Christian giving is never mandatory, but always based on one’s abilities and free will. Christian giving should always be as one is led by the Spirit and as one desires in his or her own heart. Unlike the tithe of the Old Testament there is no percentage attached to what one gives. It is, rather, based on one’s ability to give and sometimes might be more or even less than ten percent. Also, unlike the Old Testament tithe, the above passages of Scripture promise a return benefit to the giver according to what he/she gives. “He who sows sparingly shall reap sparingly shall reap sparingly”; “the same measure that you mete shall be measured to you again.” The implication is also that this principal applies to the giving of the individual as well and the corporate giving of the congregation or even a larger division of the church.

And so the final answer to our question come from the Expository of the Scriptures by John Wesley and from a sermon he preached in 1744 when he said: “Earn all you can, save all you can and give all you can; or in other words, give all you have to God. Do not stint yourself, like a Jew rather than a Christian, to this or that proportion. Render unto God not a tenth, not a third, not half, but all that is God's (be it more or less) by employing all on yourself, your household, the household of faith and all mankind, in such a manner that you may give a good account of your stewardship when ye can be no longer stewards.”

“God has everything, everything belong to God. What shall I render? Tell me, what shall I give?”


14. FINDING FLORA ALLEN: MAY SHE FINALLY REST IN PEACE:

*Mark Kelly Tyler, Ph.D

I recall vividly one request Bishop Richard Franklin Norris made of me as he appointed me to Mother Bethel in 2008: “I want you to find out what happened to the remains of Flora Allen.” There has never been agreement on where Flora was buried after a 9 month illness took her life in March, 1801. Many believed that she was buried at the Potter’s Field in what is now the prestigious Washington Square just north of Mother Bethel.

Well, I was happy today to call Bishop Norris and share the good news that we now know what happened to the earthly remains of Bishop Richard Allen’s first wife. The Bible says that if you ask, you shall receive. That law of faith is certainly true in this instance.

On Monday, I was contacted by a local researcher by the name of Terry Buckalew. He is a layman who has done a considerable amount of genealogy work in and around Philadelphia. Terry reached out to me to talk about the old burial ground owned by Mother Bethel in the 1800s located at what is now Weccacoe Park (bounded by S. 4th and S. 5th Streets & Queen and Catherine Streets). This in and of itself was news to me and I was happy to find out about this part of our past (even though the story of the lack of upkeep of the cemetery was not so glorious—look forward to hearing about this with Terry’s help at a later date).

Since we were talking about gravesites, I took the opportunity to ask about Flora. Although he did not know right off hand, he agreed to go back over his notes for any clues. I was more than a little surprised to hear back from him before 24 hours had passed. Through accounts found in the Philadelphia Gazette (March 14, 1801) and the Philadelphia Inquirer (November 5, 1889), combined with a little sleuthing, here’s the story he put together.

In 1801, Mother Bethel still worshiped in the first building, the Blacksmith Shop. When Flora died, her body was buried in the basement of that building. Apparently, the church also buried others in that same location until securing the Bethel Burial Grounds referred to earlier. For reasons that are unexplained, people seem to have forgotten that Flora and the others were buried beneath the church. Although two more buildings were built in the same location (1805 and 1841), there is no mention of the small, silent graveyard beneath the worshipers. As generation after generation had come and gone, so did the story of the dead.

However, all of that changed in 1889 with the construction of the fourth and present edifice. While the ground was being excavated, the contractor discovered a mummified corpse and the skeletal remains of others who had been hidden out of view of the congregation. Even then, it is not clear that anyone made the connection that among the dead was Flora Allen. Those remains were exhumed and then re-interred at Lebanon Cemetery (also now a playground on the corner of South 9th and Passyunk Streets in South Philadelphia).

The move would prove only temporary. Less than 15 years later, Lebanon Cemetery was purchased by the new Eden Cemetery just outside the city limits of Philadelphia. All of the remains from Lebanon were kept in the same area at Eden, which suggests strong evidence that Flora (along with those other unnamed founders of our great Zion) is now buried at Eden Cemetery. How fitting that the first “1st Lady” of African Methodism is resting in Eden!

Eden Cemetery, a National Landmark, is “home” to some of Americas most famous Black citizens: Marian Anderson, William Still, Octavius Catto, Francis Ellen Watkins Harper, and a number of the direct descendants of Bishop Richard and Sarah Allen. In addition to the need to restore the monument of Bishop Daniel Alexander Payne in recognition of his 200th birthday this year (see my posting from last year here), we also need to commemorate the spot where Flora rests. She was a tireless co-laborer with our beloved founder and worked until her death in helping to secure a legacy to pass on to us.

Let us ensure that future generations will never again forget where this saint lies in quiet repose. We must put the funding together to place a proper monument at Eden Cemetery so that she will never be lost again. This is certainly something that our entire Connection should want to support.

"As you do for your ancestors, your children will do for you." –African Proverb

(Again, words cannot express our deep appreciation for Terry Buckalew for this incredible discovery. For those who wish to contact him directly, his email address is tebuckalew@gmail.com)

*Mark Kelly Tyler, Ph.D is the pastor of Mother Bethel AME Church in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.


15. HURRY UP AND WAIT:

*The Rev. Joseph A. Darby

Based on Isaiah 40:21-31

No one knows the exact origin of the phrase “hurry up and wait,” but we all know what it means – making careful preparations to get something done on time or to reach a goal and then running into unexpected and inexplicable delays. That can be an aggravation when waiting for a flight that’s delayed, waiting for your number to be called at the Department of Motor Vehicles, or waiting in a grocery store line behind someone who doesn’t understand the meaning of “twelve items or less.”

“Hurry up and wait” usually describes relatively trivial things, but it can also apply to critical things. All of us have at one time or another sought physical or emotional healing, badly needed financial relief, peace of mind in stressful and confusing times or simple relief from life’s demands but have instead found obstacles, barriers, circumstances and even people who seem to get in the way and block or delay our well being. Having to “hurry up and wait” when we don’t find what we need can leave us downcast, distressed, disconsolate and disappointed.

It’s never easy to “hurry up and wait,” but when we earnestly believe that God knows our needs and that God’s timing is better than our timing, then we can be encouraged in our most frustrating times. We can count our blessings, see what God has done and face life with faith that affirms the words of one modern Gospel song: “What God has for me, it is for me.”

We’ll all have to “hurry up and wait” on trivial and critical needs sooner or later, but when we take the time to look back at our lives and see what God has already done, we can patiently leave our needs in the hands of the God who knows what we need before we realize and pray for our needs to be met. Life might put us “on hold,” but we can maintain our hope, serve the Lord anyhow and rejoice that the words spoken by the prophet Isaiah to God’s discouraged and disconsolate people centuries ago are still true: “Energetic children will eventually get tired and young, strong people may stumble and fall, but those who wait on the Lord will renew their strength.

If this has been a blessing to you, feel free to share it!

Get Ready for Sunday and if you are visiting Charleston, South Carolina, stop by Morris Brown and be our guests.

Join us for worship at 8 and 11 am on August 14 so that we can thank and praise God together for the blessings of another Conference Year and prepare to host the Palmetto Annual Conference. The Eight O’clock Choir will offer praise at the 8 am service and the Combined Choir, Sunbeam Choir and Young Adult Choir will offer praise at the 11 am service.

Sunday’s Scripture Lessons are:

Psalm 27:1-6
Romans 13:8-14
John 9:1-7

Sunday’s Sermons are:

“Let Christ Shine in Your Live” (8 a.m.)
“Live in the Light” (11 a.m.)

See you in church, and have a great week!

*The Rev. Joseph A. Darby is the pastor of Morris Brown AME Church


16. MARY ANN FOSTER CONNECTIONAL 1ST LADY OF THE AME CHURCH:

*The Rev. Dr. John Foster

Mrs. Mary Ann Foster – 1st Lady of St. Philip African Methodist Episcopal Church “on the Boulevard” in Savannah, Georgia - was crowned the 2011-2012 Connectional 1st Lady of the Connectional Ministers’ Spouses Widows and Widowers Organization Plus Preachers Kids (CONN-M-SWAWO Plus PKs) at the Clergy Family Awards Prayer Breakfast in Columbia, SC on June 27, 2011. “Mary Ann is our Queen and we are very proud of her” says Dr. PAM DeVeaux – 6th Episcopal District Supervisor. “Mary Ann did a great job. I am happy that she received this distinction.”

The CONN-M-SWAWO Plus PKs 1st Lady competition occurs annually and encompasses gathering sponsors, i.e. financial support from churches, pastors, ministers and lay persons from the Episcopal district. “This award represents a great honor for the entire AME church. We congratulate Sister Mary Ann Foster for working hard and receiving this prestigious award” acclaims Mrs. Shirley V. Taylor – President of the 6th Episcopal District MSWAWO Plus PKs.

The Connectional 1st Lady award is given to the candidate who receives the most support through patrons and sponsors. Sister Foster’s campaign had over 300 patrons from across the state of Georgia as the 6th Episcopal District candidate of the African Methodist Episcopal Church. “Over the past year, my husband the Rev. Dr. John Foster and I traveled throughout the state of Georgia – to all of the AME conferences – to ask for support of my candidacy. The responses were awesome; what a mighty God we serve!” said Sister Foster. “I want to give special recognition to the Presiding Elders of the Georgia Conference – Presiding Elders’ Rev. R. Nathaniel Neal (Savannah District), Rev. James E. Taylor (West Savannah District) and Rev. Dr. Dan Stevenson (Waycross District). Their support was instrumental in the success of my campaign.” Her travels included the cities of Albany, Columbus, Savannah, Augusta, Macon and Atlanta. The awarding ceremony was held at the Columbia Convention Center at the seat of the AMEC Bishop’s Council meeting in Columbia, South Carolina.

The AMEC 6th District – especially the Georgia Conference - had a great showing at the prayer breakfast. In addition to Sister Foster’s recognition, the 6th District received the Attendance award for the most attendees and the most scholarships awarded (3 received). St. Philip AME Church was also well represented. “We support our 1st family and were elated when Sister Mary Ann’s name was announced”, says Beverly Hall – steward and member of St. Philip AME Church.

1st Lady and 1st Gentleman candidates are eligible to run from each district. The funds received support scholarships for the preachers’ kids across the AME Church. The 2011 scholarship recipients are: Alexis Louise Washington (1st District-Bethel AMEC, Pennsauken, NJ), Christopher J. Alexander (6th District - St. Paul AMEC, Columbus, GA), Jordan Kevin Clarke (6th District - Greater Gaines AMEC, Savannah, GA), Gregory V. Eason, Jr. (6th District-Big Bethel AMEC, Atlanta, GA), and Courtney Sharisse Green (6th District – Turner Cathedral AMEC, Marietta, GA).


“We are proud of Sister Foster. It is a grand day for St. Philip AME Church, the Savannah District, the Georgia Conference and the 6th Episcopal District (State of Georgia).” says Presiding Elder Rev. James E. Taylor – Presiding Elder of the West Savannah District. “The support that she received from the Georgia Conference was vital to her receiving this award.” Sister Foster says “St. Philip was awesome; the Georgia Conference was awesome. Everyone was so supportive and encouraging.”

St. Philip African Methodist Episcopal Church of Savannah, Georgia was founded in 1865. St. Philip’s motto The Blessings are in the Ministries impacts the Savannah community and beyond with inspiring worship services, community outreach and youth ministries. Weekly activities include food ministry, economic development and bible teaching.

Sister Mary Ann Foster is the wife of 25 years of the Rev. Dr. John Foster – Pastor of St. Philip AME Church. Dr. and Sister Foster have served as 1st family of St. Philip AMEC since June 2004. They have three children – Kristina, John Jr. and Jessica. Sister Foster is a native of Ashburn, Georgia.

Congratulations to Sister Mary Ann Foster. “Praise God From Whom All Blessings Flow!”

*The Rev. Dr. John Foster is the pastor of St. Philip African Methodist Episcopal Church “on the Boulevard” in Savannah, Georgia


17. CHURCH MEMBER ALEX GARDENHIRE TURNS 98 YEARS OLD OF ST. MARK AME EPISCOPAL CHURCH OF TOPEKA KANSAS:

On August 3 2011 marked a great day in history at St. Mark’s African Methodist Episcopal Church, Topeka Kansas. Mr. Alex Gardenhire the oldest aged member of St. Mark’s turned 98 years young. He is married to Ethel Gardenhire. He attends Church School and Sunday Morning Worship Service regularly as well as other events. He is an active participant in Church School and often states that “we must stay prayerful because the devil is always busy.” In the past he served in many areas of the church and is an Army veteran. Also he frequently shares how life used to be when growing up on a 600-acre farm near Alma, Kansas. Another thing to note in the year of 1913 that Mr. Gardenhire was born is that sources state that there was “no federal income tax” and that Jesse Owens, the African American Olympic athletic was born.

Mr. Gardenhire was recently granted the Midwest Conference Lay Life Membership award at the Midwest Conference Lay Convention in Omaha Nebraska in June 2011 under the leadership of Conference President Donald P. Jones, Jr., and local Lay President Foster Chisholm of St. Mark’s.

The Rev. Eraina M. Ross-Aseme, Pastor of St. Mark’s African Methodist Episcopal Church in Topeka Kansas and is a candidate for Bishop 2012 of the African Methodist Episcopal Church


18. IN THIS ECONOMIC CLIMATE, THE AME CHURCH NEEDS A STRATEGY; WE ARE NOT IN A “BUSINESS AS USUAL” CLIMATE:

Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III
The 20th Editor of The Christian Recorder

The article below is a Levine Breaking News item. I am forwarding this because I believe that we may be in for another tumultuous economic “roller-coaster ride.” We don’t have to tremble in fear because we know, as Christians, that God is in control. But, having said that, AME leadership, clergy and leaders among the laity need to be sensitive to the economic climate and its impact upon our community. The stock market does affect us and will have an effect on us.

Unemployment in the African American Community is estimated to be upwards of 26%; and it’s probably higher than that. Pastors need to be in a posture preparation of counseling parishioners who might be on the frontlines of this economic precipice. We hope that we do not see, nor do we want to see, a return of the 2008 climate. If things get worse pastors might need to invite financial advisers who are part of our congregations to help our parishioners and our local churches “get smart” about what is taking place in the market and to share the best strategies for what might be “coming down the pike.”

Preaching is great, but in the words of Dr. Wayman B. Shiver, Jr., our parishioners “need more than clichés!”

-- Levine Breaking News item: Market Bodes Badly for U.S. Banks: Scary Times Are Here Again:

U.S. banks are once again living in fear, with Monday’s beating in the market—their shares plunged 11 percent—just the latest bad news. While few people expect a repeat of 2008’s Lehman debacle, banks are still sitting on huge portfolios of home loans, and a potential recession could lead to fresh losses on these assets. Bank of America, for example, controls one-fifth of the country’s home loan market, valued at $1 trillion. Its share value fell 20 percent Monday after the U.S. credit downgrade and AIG filed a $10 billion lawsuit against it alleging a “massive fraud.”


19. OUR AFRICA: THE U.S. MORAL OBLIGATION TO ADDRESS GLOBAL HUNGER:

By the Rev. Derrick Boykin and Bishop Charles E. Blake

August 12, 2011

Lawmakers have been locked in heated debates recently over how to balance the budget. Some have proposed cuts to safety net and foreign aid programs that would directly impact hungry and poor people abroad. But U.S. foreign aid accounts for less than 1 percent of the budget. Balancing the federal budget will take more than cuts to programs like these. And these cuts will cost us more in the long run, undermining the progress that’s been made in reducing HIV/AIDS-related deaths, maternal and child deaths, and severe malnutrition.

Nearly 12 million people in the Horn of Africa now face a humanitarian emergency stemming from the worst drought in 60 years—the most serious food insecurity crisis in the world today. High food prices and political instability have made it dangerous for aid workers to meet the needs of those who are suffering. Immediate needs include improving food access and addressing health and nutrition issues. Emergency aid is vital right now, but we must also think beyond the current crisis. It is much more cost-effective to invest in building agricultural and economic systems that prevent calamities and are sustainable than it is to respond to food-shortage crises.

What we share with our neighbors in Ethiopia, Somalia, Kenya, parts of Uganda, and Djibouti is the impact of rising food prices and the global financial crisis. These factors have increased hunger and malnutrition around the world. But instead of losing homes and jobs and struggling to put food on the table, people in East Africa—mothers, children, uncles, grandfathers—are dying as they trek to safer areas.

As terrible as this crisis is, it could have been much worse without programs such as Ethiopia’s Productive Safety Net Program. Country-led programs like this help small farmers and poor communities diversify their crops, broaden their income sources, create local markets, better manage their water resources, and increase the nutritional content of their families’ diets. These programs were models for Feed the Future, the U.S. government’s global program to promote sustainable agriculture, food security, and nutrition around the world. This approach to global hunger emphasizes the need to invest a few dollars per person each year to help people become more food secure and resilient to disasters, rather than investing hundreds per person to deliver emergency relief that only covers three to four months.

Unfortunately U.S. funding for such programs, including emergency food aid, is at risk. The Bible tells us to uplift—not demoralize—the “least of these.” The United States must continue its global leadership in ending hunger and poverty, paying greater attention to long-term investments in women and children and in country-led initiatives that lay foundations for sustainable agriculture and livelihood strategies. For more on the crisis, visit http://www.bread.org/hunger/global/eastern-africa-drought/ or http://www.saveafricaschildren.org

The Rev. Derrick Boykin serves as associate for African American leadership outreach at Bread for the World. Bishop Charles E. Blake, founder and CEO of Save Africa's Children, is the Presiding Bishop of the 6.5 million member Church of God in Christ.


20. PLAN NOW TO ATTEND THE THIRD REGIONAL SEMINAR/WORKSHOP MEETING OF THE CONNECTIONAL LAY ORGANIZATION – REGISTER NOW:

The Third Regional Seminar/Workshop meeting of the Connectional Lay Organization will be held on Friday October 7th, 2011 beginning at 12:00 PM and on Saturday October 8, 2011 beginning at 8:30 a.m. Members from the 1st and 2nd Episcopal Districts are invited to share and be a part of this wonderful training experience.

Hotel Accommodations are as follows:

Doubletree Hotel
700 North King Street
Wilmington, Delaware 19801
Phone: 302-655-0430
Fax: 302-655-0430
Room Rate: $99.00 plus 10% tax - Please ask for the Connectional Lay AME Church Room Rate

Schedule of Activities:

Friday October 7, 2011 - 12:00 Noon
Registration & Workshop

Friday October 7, 2011 - 7:30 PM
Worship Service - Attire: Lay Colors (Navy Blue & White)
Bethel AME Church
604 North Walnut Street,
Wilmington, Delaware
The Reverend Dr. Sylvester Beaman - Pastor

Saturday, October 8, 2011 - 8:30 AM
Workshops
Doubletree Hotel
700 North King Street
Wilmington, Delaware 19801

Registration fee for this meeting is $40.00, which includes workshops & etc. Deadline for Registration: September 25, 2011
++++++++++++++++++

The African Methodist Episcopal Church Connectional Lay Organization

3rd Regional Seminar/Workshop

Registration Form
Date: ____________

Name: Last ______________________________First ____________________________
Episcopal District: _______
Address: __________________________________________
City/State: ___________________ Zip _____________ Phone: ____________________
Email: _____________________________
Number of Person: ____________
Amount $: __________

Make Checks Payable To: First Episcopal District Lay Organization

Mail To: Shirley Canty
783 Fall Avenue
Uniondale, New York 11553
Phone #: 516-481-7642
E-mail: shirle6c@aol.com

Registration Deadline Date: September 25, 2011

For more information, please contact Sister Edith Cartledge, Connectional Lay Director at (718)538-1341 or (347)385-3654


"This information is being submitted by Walter C. Jeffers - Editor, First District Flame & Co-Director of Public Relations - First Episcopal District Lay Organization"


21. THE NINTH EPISCOPAL DISTRICT 2011 ANNUAL CONFERENCE AND PLENARY SCHEDULE:

Bishop James Levert Davis, Presiding Prelate
Mrs. Arelis Beevers Davis, Episcopal Supervisor

THE ALABAMA RIVER REGION ANNUAL CONFERENCE
The Second Session
Wednesday, September 7, 2011 -- WMS Conference (7 a.m. – 5 p.m.)

Wed – Sat, Sept. 7 - 10, 2011 - ANNUAL CONFERENCE
(Opening Annual Service – September 7, 2011 at 7 p.m.)
St. John’s A.M.E Church
807 Madison Avenue, Montgomery, AL 36104
The Rev. James E. Arnell, Host Pastor
The Rev. Albert L. Hyche, Host Presiding Elder

THE SOUTHEAST ALABAMA ANNUAL CONFERENCE
The Second Session
Wednesday, September 14, 2011 -- WMS Conference (7 a.m. – 5 p.m.)

Wed – Sat, Sept. 14 - 17, 2011 - ANNUAL CONFERENCE
(Opening Annual Service – September 14, 2011 at 7 p.m.)
Cherry Street A.M.E Church
308 North Cherry Street, Dothan, AL 36303
The Rev. Dr. Eric Little, Host Pastor
The Rev. David E. Reddick, Host Presiding Elder

THE NORTHEAST ALABAMA ANNUAL CONFERENCE
The Second Session
Wednesday, September 21, 2011 -- WMS Conference (7 a.m. – 5 p.m.)

Wed – Sat, Sept. 21 - 24, 2011 - ANNUAL CONFERENCE
(Opening Annual Service – September 21, 2011 at 7 p.m.)
Nichols Chapel A.M.E Church
215 11th Street, Phenix City, AL 36801
The Rev. Dr. Isaac N. Hudson, Jr., Host Pastor
The Rev. Joseph A. Hall, Jr., Host Presiding Elder

THE SOUTHWEST ALABAMA ANNUAL CONFERENCE
The Second Session
Wednesday, October 5, 2011 -- WMS Conference (7 a.m. – 5 p.m.)

Wed – Sat, Oct 5 - 8, 2011 - ANNUAL CONFERENCE
(Opening Annual Service – October 5, 2011 at 7 p.m.)
Bethel A.M.E Church
714 Savannah Street, Mobile, AL 36603
The Rev. Bobby B. Cox, Jr., Host Pastor
The Rev. Ernest A. Rouse, Host Presiding Elder

THE NORTHWEST ALABAMA ANNUAL CONFERENCE
The Second Session
Wednesday, October 19, 2011 -- WMS Conference (7 a.m. – 5 p.m.)

Wed – Sat, Oct 19 - 22, 2011 - ANNUAL CONFERENCE
(Opening Annual Service – October 19, 2011 at 7 p.m.)
St. John A.M.E Church
708 15th Street, North, Birmingham, AL 35203
The Rev. Mashod A. Evans, Host Pastor
The Rev. Dwight E. Dillard, Host Presiding Elder

THE PLENARY MEETING
Friday - Saturday, November 4 - 5, 2011

Place - TBA


22. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

Mrs. Dorothy Jean Avery Brown, the mother of Reverend Randy Brown, transitioned into eternity on Friday, July 29, 2011. She was a member of Greater Powell Chapel A.M.E. Church, Grenada, MS. Services were held on Saturday, August 6, 2011 with burial in the Haven Rest Cemetery.

Expressions of Sympathy may be sent to:

The Reverend Randy Brown
438 South Street
Grenada, MS 38901
(662) 688-3191


23. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

We regret to announce the untimely death on Sunday August 7, 2011, of the Rev. Quincy C. Jones, pastor of Bethel AME Church, Vicksburg, Mississippi. He is survived by his wife, Mrs. Monica Jones, his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Clarence Jones, and two brothers.

Viewing: Friday, August 12, 2011
7:00-8:00 P.M.
Jefferson Funeral Home
800 Monroe Street
Vicksburg, MS 39180
(601) 638-1641

Celebration of Life: Saturday, August 13, 2011
11:00 A.M.
The Vicksburg City Auditorium
901 Monroe Street
Vicksburg, MS 39180

Condolences may be sent to:

Mrs. Monica Jones
317 Lake Forest Drive
Vicksburg, MS 39180
(601) 636-8540
MNC_BOWMAN@YAHOO.COM

Or

Mr. & Mrs. Clarence Jones
722 Speed Street
Vicksburg, MS 39180
(601) 638-4788


24. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

We regret to announce the death of Karen A. Williams (45), niece of the Rev. Vetrel E. DeGraphenreed Smith, Pastor of Jones Chapel A.M.E. Church, Mt. Pleasant, Tennessee. After a long battle with breast cancer, Ms. Williams went home to be with the Lord Monday morning, August 8th at Alive Hospice of Nashville. Ms Williams is the daughter of Mrs. Judith A. Harrison (Louis) and former husband, Robert Williams (deceased). Ms Williams leaves behind two children, Kiara Williams (22) and Kolby Cannon (10) and a host of family and friends.

Services for Karen A. Williams:

Monday, August 15, 2011
Family Visitation: 12:00 Noon
Memorial Service: 1:00 P.M.
The Temple Church
3810 Kings Lane
Nashville, TN 37218
Pastor. Darrell A. Drumwright, Officiating

Handling of Remains and Cremation:

Lewis and Wright Funeral Directors
2500 Clarksville Pike
Nashville, TN 37208
(615) 255-2371

Condolences may be sent to:

The Rev. Vetrel E. DeGraphenreed-Smith
480 Fatherland Street
Nashville, TN 37206
615-579-5133
vetrel.smith@gmail.com

Or

In lieu of flowers, contributions for the support of the decease's minor son may be sent to:

Mrs. Judith A. Harrison
For: Kolby Cannon
3125 Hydes Ferry Road
Nashville, TN 37218


25. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

We regret to announce the passing of Dorothy E. Miller. She was the mother of the Rev. Yvonne Perry, associate minister at Greater Mt. Olive AME Church in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania and the grandmother of the Rev. Jacqueline Capers, pastor of Ruffin Nichols AME Church in Philadelphia, PA (Philadelphia Conference) and the Rev. Vanessa Perry, pastor of St. Paul AME Church in Kenilworth, NJ (Newark District, New Jersey Conference).

The following information has been provided regarding funeral arrangements.

Friday, August 12, 2011
Viewing - 9:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.
Funeral - 11:00 a.m.

Zion AME Church
1600 S. 21st Street
Philadelphia, PA 19145
Phone: 215-468-6489
Fax: 215-468-9102

The Rev. Simon P. Bouie, Pastor

The Rev. Jacqueline Capers, Officiating and Eulogist

Interment at the Mt. Lawn Cemetery
8400 Hook Road
Sharon Hill, PA 19079

Expressions of Sympathy can be sent to:

The Rev. Jacqueline Capers and family
1034 Linden Street
Sharon Hill, PA 19079
Fax: 610-534-3038


26. 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


27. 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.