THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER ONLINE ENGLISH EDITION (11/15/06)

Bishop Gregory G. M. Ingram - Chair, Commission on Publications
The Reverend Dr. Johnny Barbour, Jr., Publisher
The Reverend Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III, Editor

1. EDITORIAL: POWERFUL WORDS FOR A POWERFUL MOMENT:

Quite a few years ago while I was serving as a U.S. Army chaplain in Alaska, I was a member of the Anchorage Ministerial Association, which was entirely black. I served as the Dean of the Anchorage Theological Institute, which was the academic and theological arm of the Anchorage Ministerial Association. The association was made up of pastors from the one AMEZ Church, several Baptist Churches, the CME Church, and pastors from several of the Churches of God in Christ. There was no AME Church in Anchorage; the lone AME Church was located in Fairbanks about 352 miles from Anchorage. The Anchorage Ministerial Association was a vibrant organization and the Association and the Institute met every Saturday. It was a well-attended ministerial association.

One Saturday after one of the formal meetings, several pastors were sitting around lamenting about some of the problems they were experiencing with their congregations. It was a “pour out your heart and soul” kind of sharing session. It is good for ministers to have an environment where they can pour out their deepest feelings and those preachers were pouring their hearts out; sharing with one another.

It was the usual kinds of complaints that ministers share with each other; they were deeply chagrined about their local church officers not being faithful to their responsibilities, the lack of attendance and lack of participation by the membership, their members’ lack of appreciation for their ministry, contentious officers and contentious members. They spoke about the poor attendance at Bible studies and prayer meetings, poor stewardship and the failure of members to participate in the tithing ministry. The lack of finances was a big issue and it was their perception that members wanted to keep ministers’ salaries low. Several of the pastors spoke about contentious musicians, poor Sunday School attendance and having to bear the false accusations of ministerial misconduct. Several of the ministers were in building projects and it appeared to them that Satan, himself, was present trying to block their building programs. And, and on and on they went and it was a gut-wrenching session. I was relatively young and most of them had more pastoral experience than I. Sometimes, we can only listen; and that’s what I did.

Suddenly, Bishop C. D. Williams, the COGIC Bishop of Alaska, who was in the middle of a major remodeling program, stood up and in his preacher-voice began to share about the goodness and reliability of God and I have never forgotten his sage comments. They have stuck with me for over thirty years. I can hear him in my mind as clearly today as he spoke those words in 1975. He waxed eloquently for about three minutes and after he had reached a crescendo closed with, "I thank God for the good people who are sweet because they give me encouragement and they are a joy to serve. But, I also thank God for the contentious and complaining members; those who are fighters and who are uncooperative because they keep me on my knees in prayer and they keep me from being complacent in ministry; they keep me on my toes. So, I thank God for both groups. And, I know that God’s program will never fail if we are faithful and obedient to His will in ministry." Bishop C. D. Williams spoke powerful words for a powerful moment.

For me, the operative words, for clergy, are, “If we are faithful and obedient to God's Will in ministry.” We can thank God for the positives and negatives in ministry, “If we are faithful and obedient to God's will in ministry.”

2. HISTORIC BLACK METHODIST CHURCH DELEGATION VISITS HOLY LAND:

*By Lesley Crosson

ORLANDO (UMNS) -- A delegation of leaders from historic African-American churches who just returned from Jerusalem and the Holy Land says conditions for Palestinians in the West Bank painfully echo the injustices suffered by people of color during South Africa's apartheid era and during the pre-civil rights era in America. Black church leaders in the delegation, which included representatives from three Methodist denominations -- the Christian Methodist Episcopal Church, the African Methodist Episcopal Church (The Right Reverend E. Earl McCloud) and the African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church -- now are vowing to work with their communions and congregations, the Jewish, Christian and Islamic faith communities, politicians and Palestinians in the Diaspora to focus attention on the deteriorating situation in the Holy Land.The Oct. 27-Nov. 3 trip was hosted by the global humanitarian agency Church World Service, and the delegation was led by the Rev. John L. McCullough, a United Methodist pastor and CWS executive director.Delegation members reported their findings Nov. 9 in Orlando at the combined General Assembly of Church World Service and the National Council of Churches -- an annual meeting of leaders from 35 mainline Christian denominations. On a visit to the Israeli-built barrier now separating Palestinian residents in the West Bank from residents in Israel-controlled Jerusalem, AME Bishop E. Earl McCloud Jr. said, "I'm surprised by the blatant attempt of Israelis to separate themselves. I've also been on the backside of fear of black people, and it makes me sad to see this wall and to hear so many say this wall has been built with money I have sent to the U.S. government in tax dollars." Supporters call the nearly 26-foot-high wall portion of the barrier, which in some places runs through the home sites and farms of Palestinians, a "separation barrier." Palestinians alternately referred to it as the "apartheid wall" or the "segregation wall."

The 400-mile-plus West Bank barrier is marked with protest slogans left by visitors, including a fading stencil of the United Methodist cross and flame symbol. Church World Service sponsored an Oct. 27-Nov. 3 trip for a delegation of leaders from historic African American churches to the Middle East that included representatives from three Methodist denominations-- the Christian Methodist Episcopal Church, the African Methodist Episcopal Church, and the African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church.

The controversial 400-mile-plus West Bank barrier is marked with protest slogans left by visitors, including a fading stencil of the United Methodist Cross and Flame symbol.Supporters say the barrier is necessary to protect Israeli civilians from Palestinian suicide bombing in public places. Opponents say the barrier violates international law, is an illegal effort to annex Palestinian land and severely restricts the normal life movements of Palestinians who live in the area."I can understand Israelis concern about security. That's a valid concern for anyone, even though there have been very few incidents that truly threaten their security. But when you take a wall that separates families, that keeps people from their land, that causes immense hardship, that is overkill and there is no justification for that wall," said Bishop Louis Hunter of the AME Zion Church.The 12-member delegation met with heads of the region's oldest Orthodox and Latin Catholic churches and with Anglican, Lutheran, and Jewish faith leaders and government officials. The group also conferred with Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas and Israeli Foreign Affairs Ministry representative Shmuel ben Shmuel. Linked to the discussion of the oppression of the mostly-Christian community in Jerusalem was the threat to the survival of a Christian presence in the Holy Land, where Arab Christians and Palestinian Christians have lived for 2,000 years since the earliest Christian communities. Bishop Aris, the Armenian Patriarchate Ecumenical Officer for Jerusalem, called upon Christians to "unify in the common cause of maintaining the holy places of Jerusalem for people of all faiths." Aris said the Christian community represents less than 1.5 percent of the population in the region."If the current situation continues it may well result in the extinction of the Christian presence in the Holy Land and seriously endanger continued collaboration amongst the three Abrahamic traditions represented there," McCullough observed. "The mostly Palestinian Christian community is facing a period of intense crisis because of the expanded separation wall and restrictions on the ability of Palestinians to travel from the West Bank into Jerusalem," he said. "Israeli security and defense policies also seem to unfairly infringe upon the churches, including the effective conduct of their affairs, the nurturing of their members and the fulfillment of their ministries."

In a Nov. 2 meeting with the delegation Abbas shared his views on a two-state solution for Israel and Palestine. "We should have our own state within the borders outlined in the 1967 agreement," Abbas said. "In the past, Palestinians owned 95 percent of Palestine. The share now is 22 percent."Abbas said the international siege over the past 10 months has increased the suffering of people living in occupied Palestine, "with invasions every day, fatalities and increased demolitions of houses. We recognize the right of Israelis to live, but we also want them to recognize our right to live safely within our own borders."Emphasizing the need to draw more worldwide attention to the crisis in the region, His Beatitude Michel Sabbah, the Latin Catholic Patriarch of Jerusalem, told the delegation, "The conflict is not just the business of Palestinians and Israelis. It is the business of every Christian whose obligation is to witness justice, equality and love for all, not just for a chosen few." The severely limited freedom and discrimination against Palestinian Christians make social and economic development impossible. "In the political arena," Sabbah said. "I think that we have no place on the agenda and we do not count." Delegates vowed to try to change that. Bishop Ronald M. Cunningham of the Christian Methodist Episcopal Church said he is "prepared to become a part of a prophetic ministry to bring this situation to the forefront and to be a part of the search for a solution."McCloud pledged to look "for ways to positively and dramatically impact this situation. We're going to work with Church World Service. We're going to work with the Congressional Black Caucus. We're going to work with the ecumenical leadership. We've got to bring attention to this in America."

Other members of the delegation included the Rev. Tyrone Pitts, chief executive, Progressive National Baptist Convention; the Rev. A. Wayne Johnson, chief executive, National Missionary Baptist Convention of America; the Rev. George T. Brooks Sr., National Baptist Church of America; the Rev. Charles Mock, executive secretary, National Baptist Convention USA; and David Weaver and Cheryl Dudley, CWS staff.

*Crosson is the media relations officer for Church World Service and she accompanied the delegation.

Used with permission of the United Methodist News Service

Editor's note: I bolded the areas in the above message that relates to the AME Church and the Rt. Rev. E. Earl McCloud.

3. READER RESPONSE TO EDITORIAL AND OTHER ISSUES:

- To the Editor

In an article written in the November 2, 2006 online edition of The Christian Recorder, I wrote about something of which every pastor in the AME Church should rush to take advantage. “The Biblical Perspective about Debt” is one of two books included in the world renowned audio series regarding the principles of stewardship. This resource was printed under private label for the African Methodist Episcopal Church and we are the only denomination in the world that can make that claim.

The management from GKM, Inc. thinks the information is so important that they made a decision to mail 1400 complimentary copies to AME pastors in throughout the United States.

As I wrote before, if you want to receive the information, all you have to do is email: series@gkmpackagingdist.com.

Pastors, please include your full name, church name, address and the $70.00 resource will be mailed the same day to you, free of charge. The only thing GKM management asks is that you pay the cost of packaging and mailing the series to you. The only cost is $15.00. When you receive your series a self-addressed stamped envelop will be included for your convenience; so all you have to do is place a check for $15.00 in and mail it back.

GKM has mailed almost 400 kits to AME Pastors and as of today very few have returned the cost for shipping. Please send your check so this gracious offer will not be impeded.

The Reverend Garry Moss

4. THE 4TH EPISCOPAL DISTRICT 2006-2007 CALENDAR:

2006 Calendar

November 16
Fourth Episcopal District Community Seminar on HIV/AIDS
“Living Life to the Fullest” - 6 pm-9 pm
Bethel AMEC,
4444 S. Michigan Ave.
Chicago - (773) 285-5500

November 17
Pan-Methodist Worship Service, 7 pm
Preacher: Bishop Philip R. Cousin, Sr.
Coppin Memorial AMEC,
5633 S. Michigan Ave.,
Chicago - (773) 667-5881

2007 Calendar

February 9-10
Founder’s Day Celebration,
Hyatt Regency Hotel,
600 Town Center Dr.
Dearborn, MI
(313) 593-1234

Room Rate: $109 per night (single/double/triple/quad) - Deadline: 1/19/07
WMS Life Members’ Celebration Luncheon (2/9 at 12 pm)

February 16
13th Episcopal District Founder’s Day Celebration, 7 pm
Preacher: Bishop Philip R. Cousin, Sr.
Quinn Chapel AMEC
1901 W Muhammad Ali Blvd
Louisville, KY 40203

March 15-17
Mid-Year Convocation
Wyndham Hotel,
3000 Warrenville Road,
Lisle, IL –
(630) 505-1000

Room Rate: $97 per night; Reservation Deadline: 3/1/07

“A Celebration of Excellence” Honoring Dr. M. Joan Cousin
4th District Women's Missionary Society

April 27-29
District Minister’s Spouses Retreat –
Camp Baber,
Cassopolis, MI

July 30-Aug. 2
Christian Education Congress
Wyndham Hotel,
3000 Warrenville Road,
Lisle, IL
(630) 505-1000

Room Rate: $97 per night; Reservation Deadline: 6/29/07

5. SAVE THE DATE - FRIDAY, MAY 11 THRU SATURDAY, MAY 12, 2007:

Sisters Keeping the Covenant Presents Women’s General Assembly 2007

“SHE AIN’T HEAVY SHE’S MY SISTER” (Special Sessions for Young Ladies ages 12-18)

Conference Site: Sheraton Hotel, Parsippany, New Jersey

For more Information, call the Rev. Maxine L. Thomas, Telephone: 877-942-2006

Visit our website: www.sisterskeepingthecovenantministries.org

6. HOW CHRISTIAN ARE WE WHEN NOBODY IS WATCHING?

*The Reverend Charles R. Watkins, Jr., B.S., M.Div.

Luke 10:30-37 is, of course, the Parable of the Good Samaritan. It is a story told from pulpits across the country. This passage of Scripture represents the parable Jesus used in answer to the Levite’s question—“Who is my neighbor?”

This story, while relatively short in length is long on content. I submit that this well known, oft preached, neatly packaged story begs the question: “How Christian are we when nobody is watching?’

Geographically, Jericho is down from Jerusalem. To understand the significance, we must picture this road as it winds and turns, making its way down the steep decline. As it winds and turns we can imagine the many places around each bend where dangerous obstacles can be hidden. We can imagine as the road winds and turns all the places where danger is possibly lurking and where there is opportunity to be over taken by thieves, robbers and others who would do us harm.

This road is very much like our life’s journey. We travel down the winding, turning, often treacherous road of life’s journey rounding corners, sometimes finding ourselves confronted with fear. Fear of the unknown. Fear that robs us of security. We travel down life’s road negotiating the winding turns, rounding the next corner when, all of a sudden, jumping out of the bushes, is a gang of troubles resulting in financial uncertainty.

Continuing down life’s road we often times round the corner only to be blindsided by one unexpected misfortune after another. Many have fallen into the hands of robbers of self-esteem. Many, unfortunately, have been accosted by thieves who strip them of their will. Far too often some of our friends and loved ones lay on life’s road gang beaten by despair and left emotionally and spiritually dead. There on the side of life’s treacherous winding road many lay hemorrhaging with doubt and anemic of faith.

We have preached to others about the help that comes through prayer, but now as people around us lay wounded on that road down life’s journey—“How Christian are we when nobody is watching?”

The parable very neatly describes three people who come in contact with the man who lies beaten and robbed. We are disgusted by those who didn’t stop to help and we are elated that somebody did. However, I submit that on any given day, for many of us, the actions of all three people are representative of our own service to those who need our help. Someday we are like the priest, pious, self-serving and judgmental. Some days we are in a hurry like the Levite. Thanks be to God, there are days when we are compassionate and willing to give of ourselves. These are the days when we recognize our neighbor is any one of God’s creation.

Jesus gives us an example, in this parable, of the sacrifice it takes to be what God has called us to be. “How Christian are we, when nobody is watching?” It seems so simple to do what is right when we are among a crowd of people. It seems so unnoticed to not be helpful when nobody seems to be watching. That is, of course, until we come to realize that someone is always watching. That is until we awaken to the fact that nothing we do goes unnoticed by God.

How many people have we passed going down life’s road? How many times, when we could have helped, have we turned away or crossed to the other side of the street? Have we done all that we can for our neighbors? How Christian are we when nobody is watching?

The Rev. Charles R. Watkins, Jr is the pastor of Friendship AME Church, Clinton, South Carolina, Greenville District, Seventh Episcopal District.

The Right Reverend Dr. Preston Warren Williams, II, Presiding Prelate
The Reverend Jonathan J. Baker, Presiding Elder

7. THE ASSOCIATION OF AFRICAN METHODIST EPISCOPAL SCOUTS (AAMES) SUBMITS REPORT FOR OCTOBER 2006:

Organizational Growth

The AAMES ministry continues to experience fluctuations in its participation and membership. However, when weighed, the level of interest and desire to participate in the ministry has steadily been increasing in recent months. AAMES is continuing to improve its outreach and means of communication.

Plan for Growth

Starting in July 2006, AAMES initiated the process of a strategic plan to increase membership and active participation. The process from our strategic planning efforts has resulting in the following.

- Recommendations for Episcopal appointment, in each Episcopal District to serve as Boy Scout Director to enable us to be equitably represented across the connection. These appointees will have similar responsibilities to that of a District Christian Education Director, but will focus on establishing scouting troops in their District of assignment. (2006-2010 - Episcopal appointments attached)

- Increased accessibility throughout the connection by seeking permission for AAMES Connectional information is included in all official publications and websites.

- A review of 2005 - 2006 statistics, indicate the need to seriously work on recruiting the new leadership in each of the units. As longstanding primary leaders drop or become disinterested in the program because their children graduate and go on to collage, military, etc, communication from each of these units to AAMES sometimes stops due to new leadership may not be members of the local host church. Therefore the information needed for communication to AAMES is not properly passed on to the new leadership of those units. AAMES is actively working on solutions that will enable these types of issues to be eliminated. This process thus will save more units.

- A process for starting new AAMES scouting units has begun because of these processes being initiated throughout the AME Connectional Church.

Program of Religious Activities for Youth

At the 25th Connectional Christian Education & Youth Congress held at Coronado Springs Resort Walt Disney World Lake Buena Vista, Florida. AAMES membership convened on Thursday, July 6, 2006 for the purposes of the appointment/reappointment of Connectional and Assistant Connectional Scouting Directors and the election of other officers. With Dr. Ingram presiding, the following installations were made for the term commencing 2006-2010.

Appointments Made:
Connectional Boy Scout Director - Anthony Franklin
Connectional Girl Scout Director - Cora Lee-Palmer
Assistant Connectional Boy Scout Director - Clarence Crayton
Assistant Connectional Girl Scout Director - Hattie Saulsberry

Elected Officers are:
Secretary - Donna Franklin
Asst. Secretary - Lamont Williams
Treasurer - Robert McRath
Financial Secretary - Jesse Triggs
Chaplain - Gwendolyn Williams
Historiographer - Steve Franklin
Parliamentarian - Myron Ford

A meeting was also held at the Congress with AAMES leadership, The Central Florida Boy Scout Executive Ron Oates, President of South Region Central Florida - Tica Perez, Disney Executive Manager of Support Systems – Allie Braswell to initiate discussions for developing scouting units in the AME churches in Central Florida. The Central Florida BSA Council and Scout Reach National Associate Assistant Director – Don Rodgers have pledged to work with Presiding Elder James Williams and Rev. Granville Anderson (an Eagle Scout) to strongly endorse a plan to address the need.

At the Congress Awards Dinner held the same night former General Officer of Christian Education Department - Dr. Kenneth Hill was presented the God and Service award from
Scout Reach National Associate Assistant Director - Mr. Don Rodgers.

Scout Reach National Associate Assistant Director - Don Rodgers also received the Outstanding Contributions award for Distinguish service from the Association of African Methodist Episcopal Scouts along with Dr. James F. Miller, Pastor of Dupage AME Church, Lisle Illinois, former General Officer of Christian Education Department husband and wife Dr. Roberta Hill and Dr. Kenneth Hill.

Dr. Daryl Ingram, General Officer of Christian Education Department announced that the A.M.E. Church will be participating in a test pilot program involving youth in thirteen A.M.E. churches to test the “fit” of the A.M.E. religious award programs offered by PRAY with our youth programs.

Rev. Ernest J. Garrison – Connection Church School Certification Coordinator presented to the youth leadership of the 4th Episcopal District 0n September 14, 2006 at Host Church - Dupage AME Church in Lisle Illinois, a formal presentation on the nature of how the mission of the church, Christian education & what is my Gift, can support the teaching and training to prepare them for and assist them with effective living and Christian leadership in a changing society. Using the test pilot program was discussed as part of the process

In the Washington DC area AAMES - Asst. Director Clarence Crayton, along with the National Capital Area Council's Field Director are, in the process of setting up a Meeting with the Second Episcopal District Bishop - A Jefferson Richardson to discuss the processes from our strategic planning efforts to Scouting in the Second District. We are planning to meet in November 2006.

Events & Local Activities

Rev. Arties Phillips Jr. - AAMES Emeritus – received his congratulation letter for his 50 years of service in scouting.

At the Boy Scouts National Annual Meeting this past May in Washington, D. C: Troop 487 had a Color Guard Present the Color at the Americanism Breakfast.

Troop 487's Bryant Crenshaw (Eagle Scout, now a freshman at Wilberforce University, Ohio) received the AME God and County Award

In May, AAMES - Asst. Director Clarence Crayton Clarence Crayton was awarded his Silver Beaver Award in the National Capital Area Council

Ebenezer AME Church, Ft. Washington, Md. - Troop 487 took twenty-one Boy Scouts and Cub Scouts to the Grand Canyon in July. They were hosted by St. James AME Church in Memphis Tennessee and Johnson Chapel AME Church in Amarillo TX on their trip.

DuPage AME Church, Lisle Illinois Scouting Ministry in September visited the Kane County correctional facilities in Geneva IL, hosted by AAMES local members. 87 persons attended, the youth were able to see the positive careers of law enforcement and how the technology affects us all today. The Adult leaders and parents were given a presentation and tour of the Jail. Everyone who participated in the visit said our youths need to see this type of tour to encourage them to continue to work for the good.

Respectfully Submitted,

Anthony Franklin Sr.
AAMES - Connectional Boy Scout Director -2006 -2010
2540 Brookstone Court
Aurora, IL 60504
630-375-9230 (h)
adf@ameritech.net

Rev. Artis Phillips Jr.
AAMES Emeritus – Religious Relationship Committee Member
8323 S. Paxton
Chicago, IL
773/734-7866

Rev. Dr. Daryl B. Ingram
AAMES - Executive Director of Scouting Director - AME Christian Education Department
AME Christian Education Department500 8th Avenue SouthNashville, TN 37203
(800) 525-7282
cedoffice@ameced.com

8. ASSOCIATION OF AFRICAN METHODIST EPISCOPAL SCOUTS:

“United in Christ, Creed and Culture”

Officers of AAMES - 2006 – 2010

Executive Director of Scouting – Dr. Daryl Ingram cedoffice@ameced.com
Girl Scouts Director - Cora Lee - Palmer amegsdir@sbcglobal.net
Boy Scouts Director - Anthony Franklin Sr. adf@ameritech.net
Girl Scouts Asst. Director - Hattie Saulsberry hsaulsberry@sbcglobal.net
Boy Scouts Asst. Director – Clarence Crayton lahowardconstruction@msn.com
Treasurer - Robert Mcrath robertmcrath@i1.net
Financial Secretary - Jesse Triggs jestrigg@yahoo.com
Secretary - Donna J. Franklin donnajfranklin@ameritech.net
Asst. Secretary - Lamont Williams LWilliam@milwjobs.com
AAMES Chaplin - Williams, Gwendolyn Butler
Historiographer - Steve Franklin snjfranklin@comcast.net
Parliamentarian - Myron Ford mkford_sr@yahoo.com

9. THE 10TH EPISCOPAL DISTRICT ANNUAL LAY CONVENTION -
“THE OTHER SIDE OF LEADERSHIP”:

*Sister Vicki E. Houston

On June 2-3, 2006 the 10th Episcopal District Lay Organization under the leadership of Episcopal District Lay President – Charles Rainwater and Episcopal District Director of Lay Activities – Beverly Nutall convened its’ Annual Convention at Grant A.M.E. Worship Center in Austin, Texas (Rev. Dr. W. Raymond Bryant, Pastor / Vicki Houston, Local Lay President). The Director of Lay Activities in collaboration with President Rainwater and Bishop Gregory G. M. Ingram and others crafted a “jam packed” two days of seminars and other activities for the attendees. The 2006 Annual Lay Convention theme was “The Other Side of Leadership”. The presenters and topics were wide ranging and there was plenty of Q & A in the individual workshops, as well as the general plenary sessions.

The gathering was blessed to have Bishop Ingram conduct a plenary on “The Other Side of Leadership: The Critical Role of Lay Persons in the Work of the Church”. In his presentation he told us that “the mission statement of the A.M.E. Church often serves as the driving force behind a church being a success or failure. The church is God’s instrument and community called and commanded to do His work and will in the world. Christian ministry today requires changes in its present structures, practices and ideologies. This means that all of us, clergy and lay, must examine ourselves to see how we are helping to liberate the disinherited and oppressed. Years ago, people were drawn to certain leaders because of their charisma or persona. Today, people are looking for leaders who possess more. Leadership is exemplified by those possessing the rare skill of drawing people together to achieve a common objective.”

Additionally, a plenary, “Developing Leaders for the Future to ‘Make a Difference’” was given by Rev. Ronald A. Boykin, Pastor of First A.M.E. Church in Manassas, Virginia. The workshops and plenary sessions were open to and attended by both lay and clergy.

Other workshops and presenters during the convention included:

- “Seven Leadership Challenges for the Local Church” – Eddie Henry
- “Organizing a Lay Organization and What it Takes to Make it Successful” – Johnny Tellis, Jr.
- “History of the Lay Movement … Past and Present” – Vertie Young
- “Leadership Lessons of Jesus: How to Live Well” – Mary Stovall Turman
- “Developing Your Spirituality through Journaling” – Paul Turman
- “God’s Economic Plan for Your Life” – Larry Hollie

Friday’s activities concluded with a grand banquet held in Grant Worship Center’s Alene Henderson Family Life Center. The center’s tables were draped in royal blue with rose centerpieces; the head table, also draped in royal blue had multiple centerpieces with mixed floral arrangements. The banquet began with “the processional” for the head table introduced by Master of Ceremonies, Carl Davis. The processional included: Bishop Ingram, Rev. Boykin, Rev. Bryant (host pastor), Charles Rainwater, Beverly Nutall, Johnny Tellis, Jr. (Connectional Lay 3rd Vice President) and his wife Barbara, Albert Brewer (Past Connectional Lay Parliamentarian) and his wife Mary, Conference Presidents: Bertha Davis, Donnie Thomas-Davis, Rodrick Moore and Ava Parker, and Vicki Houston (local lay president). Attendees availed themselves of an eye pleasing sumptuous meal (courtesy of the culinary talents of Vernice Williams) before turning their attention to the speaker for the evening.

The welcome was given by the host conference president, Rodrick Moore.

The banquet speaker was none other than Richard A. Lewis, Treasurer of the A.M.E. Church. Our spirits were elevated in song by the powerful voice of Joy Moore (of Grant A.M.E. Worship Center). The inaugural “Gussie Smith Service Award” was presented to her family (Gussie Smith passed in early January 2006; she was a charter member of the 10th Episcopal District Lay Organization). We were further blessed to have the Presiding Elders Council of the 10th District present at the banquet (and closing service).

The convention concluded on Saturday with a business session and memorial followed by the closing worship service. The closing message was brought by Bishop Gregory G. M. Ingram. The subject of his message was “Who Are You Listening To?” (I Kings 19:4-…; focal verses 11 & 12). Some of the sermon points were:

- “After God has revealed himself, don’t let anyone … run you away.”
- “Don’t let your faith fail you at a critical time”
- “Every now and then you’ve got to stop listening - to the nay-sayers, to folk who are going nowhere …”

The Metropolitan A.M.E. Church-Austin Praise Team accompanied by Mattie Robinson uplifted the congregation in song during the service. Closing remarks were given by President Rainwater and Beverly Nutall (DOLA) who thanked ALL who had come together and worked to make the convention a success, especially Bishop Ingram who was actively involved from the beginning to the end. Bishop Ingram gave the final remarks before the body dismissed with the Lay Benediction. The convention even sported a smartly designed Souvenir Journal. In leaving, all thought that this had been a wonderful convention and were looking forward to seeing what the 2007 Convention will bring.

*Sister Vicki E. Houston is the Director of Public Relations, 10th Episcopal District Lay Organization

10. CLERGY OF THE WEEK: PROMINENT PRESIDING ELDER, THE REVEREND ELLA MAE SAMUELS, WINS SCHOOL BOARD SEAT IN THE STATE OF GEORGIA:

*Reverend Edrena Houston Brown, M.A.C.E.

On Tuesday, November 7, 2006, The Prominent Presiding Elder Ella Mae Samuels of the Augusta-Athens District, Augusta Conference of the Sixth Episcopal District of the African Methodist Episcopal Church won the McDuffie County School Board Seat. She is first in its history of A.M.E. females among Presiding Elders in the Sixth Episcopal District, to serve as a member on the McDuffie County Board of Education in Thomson, Georgia.

Presiding Elder Samuels was elected by a margin of 61% percentile. Her Opponent consented at having 39% of the voting declared at the end of the election. As a newly elected Board Member, some her responsibilities will be is to ensure that policies of the local schools are implemented and are active according to policies and procedures. “The Board is also, responsible for Interviewing and hiring a Superintendent of Schools for the county and other additional duties as assigned to the Board, stated; The presiding Elder Samuel.” Winning has always been a positive aspect in Presiding Elder’s Samuels life and the Lord has blessed her to be a forerunner in her call for service.

Her portfolio describes her as an outstanding Woman of God. Being chosen by God, as the First Female who has served in many capacities of the church, she has been instrumental in opening doors for others females in ministry. While interviewing Presiding Elder Samuels, she acknowledges that her ministry is extensive. Being ordained the first female ordained Itinerant Elder in the Augusta Conference, was a rewarding and challenging experience. She was ordained during the Leadership of Bishop Frederick H. Talbot in 1986.

Among the “first-ever achievements” of Presiding Elder Samuels; she was the first female presiding elder, having been appointed to the presiding eldership in the Sixth Episcopal District by the late Bishop Donald George Kenneth Ming in 2000. She was appointed to the Bishop’s Council of the African Methodist Episcopal Church under the leadership of Bishop Richard F. Norris and currently serves as the senior marshal on the Council of Bishops’ Marshalls’ staff. She was the first woman in ministry in the sixth Episcopal District appointed to a church with resources that actually provided a salary and benefits to include: insurance, retirement and other amentias, which enabled her to serve in full-time ministry. Presiding Elder Samuels became a full time pastor in 1994 after Bishop Ming had given her the appointment in 1993. She Served as the chief secretary of the Augusta Annual Conference and served on the Board of Examiners and the Statistician of the Augusta Conference.

After being employed for the Emanuel County School System for 23 years as an Administrative Assistant and she also served 5 years in the Treutlen School System.

Academically, she has studied at Erskine Theological Seminary, East Georgia College, and Brewton Parker College. She graduated with the highest honor, in receiving a Business Diploma from Swainsboro Technical College. She has done further study in attending numerous seminars and workshops presented by Career Track and Pryor’s Seminars.

The Clergy of the Augusta-Athens District are proud of the accomplishments of their Presiding Elder Samuels in winning the school board seat on November 7, 2006 and commented that, “She is an extraordinary presiding elder in the district and in the community.”

Presiding Elder Samuels is grateful for spiritual and dynamic leadership of Bishop William P. DeVeaux, Sr., Presiding Prelate of the Sixth Episcopal District and Dr. Pamela DeVeaux, Episcopal Supervisor for their inspiring and excelling example in leading the episcopal district to a higher level of excellence and spiritual empowerment.

The Augusta-Athens District presently has 39 churches, 29 pastors serving in pastoral roles at their perspective churches, ten licensed exhorters, two licensed missionaries and a licensed lay speaker.

Because of her dedication and committed service to the church and the community has led her to the School Board Seat as an elected member of the McDuffie County Board of Education. She currently serves a member of the McDuffie Chamber of Commerce, the McDuffie Tourism Board, as Chaplain for St. Joseph Hospice, shares in weekly radio broadcast on Radio Station WTWA /AM serving Thomson McDuffie County and the surrounding counties.

As a noted Revivalist, Evangelist, Preacher, teacher and Presiding Elder her vision is to continue to serve God and to bring communities together through enhancing the Body of the Christ.

Congratulations Presiding Elder Samuels as Clergy of The Week, for your unselfish service to mankind.

If you are interested in nominating your pastor or clergy staff member as Clergy of the week, please email your letter of request to; ebrown49@hotmail.com

*Rev. Edrena Houston Brown is a staff writer for the Christian Recorder

11. NEWLY ELECTED OFFICIALS TO WORK AS JANITORS FOR A DAY AT NOVA SOUTHEASTERN UNIVERSITY:

State Senator Tony Hill and State Representative Eleanor Sobel met with freshman legislators outside of Nova Southeastern University today. The senior and newly elected officials of Broward County along with faith and community leaders worked alongside the 350 janitors, landscapers and other service workers who maintain Nova Southeastern University. Carrying brooms, rakes, and wearing gloves, the “Janitors for a Day” paired up with individual janitors or landscapers to complete their work duties and show their support of these workers who recently voted and won a union.

"These hardworking people deserve a voice and respect, not poverty wages that burden our communities" said Ronald Brise, the newly elected State Representative for District 108. “It will be an honor to work by their side and learn more about the struggles go through to support their families.”“We formed a union to win dignity and respect for the hard work we do. I work all day in the sun, but only earn $6.70 per hour,” said Rose Marie Fleuranvil, a landscaper at Nova.

On October 4, 2006, over 70% of the workers voted in support of union representation. Many of the workers have served Nova for years, yet struggle to make ends meet as the average wage is $7.21 an hour with no health benefits.

These workers stand to lose their jobs any day as Nova recently put the cleaning, landscaping, and maintenance services contract out to bid. Nova has not committed to require new contractors to maintain the current workforce, as is standard in the industry.The Janitor for a Day program is modeled on Senator Bob Graham's "Workday" program started in 1974 where he labored side-by-side with his constituents performing jobs such as a garbage man, construction worker, and factory worker.

With 1.8 million members, SEIU is the fastest-growing union in North America. Focused on uniting workers in three sectors to improve their lives and the services they provide, SEIU is the largest health-care union and the largest property services union; including building cleaning and security; and the second largest public employees union.

12. CLERGY FAMILY CONGRATULATORY ANNOUNCEMENT:

Mrs. Winifee Charles Lawrence graduated from the University of the West Indies, Mona campus in Kingston Jamaica West Indies with a Masters Degree in Educational Administration on Friday, 10th November 2006. Mrs. Lawrence is the wife of the Rev. Barrington Lawrence, Presiding Elder, Jamaica Conference, 16th Episcopal District; Bishop Carolyn Tyler Guidry, Presiding Bishop.

Mrs. Winifee Charles Lawrence serves as the President of the Women's Missionary Society of the 16th Episcopal District.

Congratulatory messages can be emailed to: winifee@yahoo.com

13. CLERGY FAMILY CONGRATULATORY ANNOUNCEMENT:

Congratulations are extended to the Illustrious presiding elder, the Reverend Ella Smiley of the Augusta-Athens District of the Augusta Annual Conference, as a newly elected member of the McDuffy County Board of Education, Thomason, Georgia. She was elected on Tuesday, November 7, 2006 during the General Election and won with 61% of the votes.

Congratulatory messages can be emailed to: pesmiley@yahoo.com

14. CLERGY FAMILY CONGRATULATORY ANNOUNCEMENT:

Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III, Editor of The Christian Recorder and The Reverend Charlotte Sydnor, Pastor of Shorter Chapel AME Church, Franklin, TN are pleased to announce that their daughter, Attorney Gloria Lynn Sydnor Smith will be preaching her “trial sermon” at 5 p.m. on Sunday at Quinn Chapel AME Church, Cincinnati, Ohio where the Reverend Dr. Frederick A. Wright is the pastor.

Sister Smith is a graduate of the University of Alaska and the Salmon P. Chase College of Law. She practices law with the Cross, Smith Law Firm in Cincinnati, Ohio.

Congratulatory messages can be emailed to:

15. CLERGY FAMILY CONGRATULATORY ANNOUNCEMENT:

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

Congratulatory messages can be emailed to:

kelbyandlynnette@yahoo.com

16. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

Mrs. Ethel Fisher passed on Saturday, November 11, 2006 at 5:00 p.m. Mrs. Fisher is the Mother of the Rev. Jon S. Goshay. He pastored churches in Pennsylvania and at St. Andrews African Methodist Episcopal Church in Youngstown, Ohio. Upon his death, he was serving as the pastor of Quinn Chapel African Methodist Church, Steubenville, Ohio.

Service arrangements for Mrs. Ethel Fisher:
Calling Hour
Wednesday, November 15, 2006
6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.

Thursday, November 16, 2006
Calling Hour -10:00 a.m.
Funeral - 11:00 a.m.
St. Paul African Methodist Episcopal Church
1800 E. Tuscarawas Street
Canton, OH 44707
Phone: 330-455-6003
FAX: 330-455-8403
Rev. Robert Dye, Pastor

Condolences can be sent to the church.

Professional Services entrusted to:
Formet-Clevenger and Gordon Funeral Home
1803 Cleveland Avenue NW
Canton, OH 44709
Phone: 330-456-4766
FAX: 330- 452-4766

17. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

Mrs. Blanche Wiggins Haynie went to be with the Lord on Saturday, November 11, 2006. Mrs. Haynie is the mother of Dr. Linda Haynie Green and the mother-in-law of The Reverend O. Jerome Green, pastor of Gaines Chapel A.M.E. Church in Anniston, AL.

Funeral Service:
Friday, November 17, 2006
11 a.m.
St. John A.M.E. Church
Pine Bluff, Arkansas
The Rev. W. R. Norful will officiate.

The family of Dr. Linda Haynie Green may be contacted at:
4103 Stemley Bridge Road
Pell City, AL 35128
205-338-7662

Expressions may be sent to:
P. K. Miller Mortuary
204 East 2nd Avenue
Pine Bluff, Arkansas 71601
870-535-1012 Phone
870-535-1309 Fax

18. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

Regretfully we announce the passing of Mrs. Linda B. Wright of Orlando, Florida on November 12, 2006. Mrs. Wright is the sister of Rev. Paula Lake and sister-in-law of Rev. Eddie Lake, Pastor and First Lady of Greater Mt. Pleasant AME Church, Hollywood, Florida.

Funeral Service:
Saturday, November 18, 2006
11:00 A.M.
The Life Center Church of Eatonville
63 E. Kennedy Boulevard
Eatonville, FL 32751
(407) 628-3229

Final care entrusted to:
Mitchell's Funeral Home
501 Fairvilla Road
Orlando, FL 32808
(407) 298-0703

Condolences may be sent to:
Rev. Paula Lake
720 SW 2nd Place
Dania Beach, FL 33004

19. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICES AND CONGRATULATORY ANNOUNCEMENTS PROVIDED BY:

The Clergy Family Information Center
Bishop Carolyn Tyler Guidry, Chair
Commission on Social Action

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

20. CONDOLENCES TO THE BEREAVED FROM THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER:

The Chair of the Commission on Publications, the Right Reverend Gregory G. M. Ingram; the Publisher, the Reverend Dr. Johnny Barbour and the Editor of the Christian Recorder, the Reverend Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III offer our condolences and prayers to those who have lost loved ones. We pray that the peace of Christ will be with you during this time of your bereavement.

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

Bishop Gregory G. M. Ingram - Chair, Commission on Publications
The Reverend Dr. Johnny Barbour, Jr., Publisher
The Reverend Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III, Editor

1. A WORD FROM THE EDITOR:

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

2. READER RESPONSE TO EDITORIAL AND OTHER ISSUES:

- To the Editor

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

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

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

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

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

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

Richard Allen Washington
First AMEC, Athens GA

3. AME TRIVIA COLUMN:

By Stephen A. Green

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

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

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

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

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

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

4. A NOTE FROM THE RIGHT REVEREND SARAH DAVIS:

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

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

Bishop Sarah

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

*Jennifer Jordan

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

7. SAGGING PANTS IS JUST PLAIN OUT:

*James B. Ewers, Jr. Ed.D

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The following persons were elected at the meeting:

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

9. ALL ABOUT DIABETES AND SYMPTOMS OF DIABETES:

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

Major Types OF DIABETES

a. Type 1

Results from the body’s failure to produce insulin.

b. Type 2

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

c. Pre-diabetes

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

Symptoms Of Diabetes

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

How Diabetes Affects You

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

People with diabetes need ongoing medical care to stay healthy

Treatments for Diabetes

Meal planning
Exercise
Medications if needed

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

10. EPILEPSY AWARENESS:

November is Epilepsy Awareness month.

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

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

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

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

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

Seizures are unpredictable events

Types of Seizures

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

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

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

What to do

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

Treatment

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

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

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

By Brother Alphonso Ben Varner

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

12. CLERGY FAMILY CONGRATULATORY ANNOUNCEMENT:

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

Congratulatory Notices can be sent to kelbyandlynnette@yahoo.com

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

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

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

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

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

13. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

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

Viewing and Funeral Service – Monday, November 6, 2006

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

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

Condolences may be sent to:

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

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

14. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

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

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

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

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

Please remember Rev. Bean and family in your prayers.

14. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

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

Service Arrangements:

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

Professional Services entrusted to:

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

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

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

15. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT AND CONGRATULATORY ANNOUNCEMENTS PROVIDED BY:

The Clergy Family Information Center
Bishop Carolyn Tyler Guidry, Chair

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

16. CONDOLENCES TO THE BEREAVED FROM THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER:

The Chair of the Commission on Publications, the Right Reverend Gregory G. M. Ingram; the Publisher, the Reverend Dr. Johnny Barbour and the Editor of the Christian Recorder, the Reverend Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III offer our condolences and prayers to those who have lost loved ones. We pray that the peace of Christ will be with you during this time of your bereavement.