THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER ONLINE ENGLISH EDITION (9/4/08)

Bishop Richard Franklin Norris - Chair, Commission on Publications
The Reverend Dr. Johnny Barbour, Jr., Publisher
The Reverend Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III, Editor, The Christian Recorder

THOUGHT FOR THE WEEK:

"Luck is what happens when preparation meets opportunity." - Seneca

1. EDITORIAL – IT TAKES LONGER TO GET FROM THE BOTTOM TO THE TOP THAN IT DOES TO GET FROM THE TOP TO THE BOTTOM:

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

A couple of weeks ago Dr. Johnny Barbour and I were having a discussion about politicians; the good, the bad and the ugly. We talked about John McCain, Barack Obama and eventually about John Edwards. The conversation quickly focused upon the ethical and moral failures of some of the well-known political leaders. We talked about power and the misuse of power, which manifests itself in moral and ethical indiscretions that quickly destroys careers. The question arose about why respected, well-educated individuals would behave in ways that would bring embarrassment and disgrace to them, their families, the Church, and their careers.

I thought about the quotation that Lord Acton, the historian and moralist wrote in a letter to Bishop Mandell Creighton in 1887 in which he said, "Power tends to corrupt, and absolute power corrupts absolutely.” He went on to write, “Great men are almost always bad men." Lord Acton seemed to be saying, that a person’s sense of morality lessens as his or her power increases. That’s a serious indictment and should be a stern warning because the ministry is a profession of power; and pastors and lay leaders in the church are constantly faced with the issues of power and the misuse of power.

The Bible is replete with leaders and their misuse of power. The biblical account David and Bathsheba is a perfect example of the misuse of power. Bathsheba was bathing and David, because of his position and power, observed her from a vantage point that was not available to the common person who lived in the area. First, David’s encounter with Bathsheba happened in the afternoon (II Sam. 11:2ff) when most other men would have been working, and of course a lot of them were off fighting the Ammonites. David had the resources and the power to send one of his workers to inquire of her. Second, if Bathsheba had been approached by a common laborer or a regular soldier, she would have called for help or would have had the person arrested, but because it was David, the King, she was flattered; she was enthralled by his power. In a speech to Army leaders about the temptations of moral and ethical misbehavior of leaders, an Army general said, “Power is an aphrodisiac”; David’s power was indeed and aphrodisiac.

Power has been described as the ability to manipulate and control whatever one desires and to do what one pleases to do without regard to authority; and pastors and lay leaders in the church are faced with the same temptations.

As one would expect, when two preachers are in a heavy discussion; whether it’s about politics or economics, the subject almost always shifts to the ministry and my conversation with Dr. Barbour was no exception. We shared clergy and non-clergy stories about incidents that we had heard about over the years.

We talked about ministry; its joys and its challenges and especially about its pitfalls, when Dr. Barbour mentioned that his father told him, “It takes longer to get from the bottom to the top than it does to get from the top to the bottom.” I was puzzled and asked him what his father meant by that statement. He went on to explain, “Daddy said that it take a long time for a minister who starts at the bottom pastoring small congregations and moving from church to church and then getting to the first church on the district – that doesn’t happen overnight; but one indiscretion, one moral misjudgment and the fall from the top to the bottom can be instantaneous.” He went on to explain that it takes hard work and time to move from the bottom of the profession to the top-tier of the profession, but it only takes a moment, “a twinkling of the eye” to fall to the lowest tier of the profession and in that fall, so many persons are hurt.

In spite of all of our biblical teachings, Lord Acton may have been correct; and it’s a reminder to us in ministry and in leadership positions to remember, "Power tends to corrupt, and absolute power corrupts absolutely.”

And, Lord Acton’s statement, “Great men are almost always bad men" can apply to women in power also. Power and the use or misuse of power transcends gender.

The challenge for ministry and the use of power entrusted to us is to be on guard. Paul’s letter to the Ephesians (Chapter 6, verses 10-20) is a reminder that life’s spiritual battles are not against human beings but against spiritual evil. The analogy of the weapons is significant because except for the sword, the weapons are all defensive, which indicates that Christians are not in an attack mode, but a “defend or protect” mode. In Ephesians Chapter 1, Paul reminds us that power belongs to God.

Dr. Barbour’s father was correct and a great reminder: “It takes longer to get from the bottom to the top than it does to get from the top to the bottom.”

2. READER RESPONSE TO EDITORIAL AND OTHER ISSUES:

- To the Editor:

RE: Editorial - The Inwardness and the Outwardness of Worship

I am always very proud any time one references Dr. Howard Thurman as he is my uncle by marriage. I never met him but I was fortunate to meet his wife "Aunt Sue" in her later years. I've come to know so much about him and his ministry in the last ten years or so. I'll be sure to forward this to his daughter, Olive Wong.

Be blessed,
Janice Brown

- To the Editor:

This comes to say thank you for how you are keeping us informed in everything that is happening in our church and in world today.
The General Conference coverage was outstanding, I was in St Louis and you didn't miss a beat.

Peace and Joy,
Edna Martin

3. THE AME GENERAL CONFERENCE HAS PASSED INTO HISTORY, BUT THERE IS STILL WORK TO BE DONE:

*Dr. Jamye Coleman Williams

The historic 48th session of the AME General Conference has passed into history. Three new bishops have been elected, and all bishops have been assigned. The WMS is preparing for its Executive Meeting, as is the Connectional Lay Organization. In December the General Board will soon bring us together again. In other words, the Church is "back to business as usual" as it begins a new quadrennium.

While we are about our activities as a Church, while the internal problems and issues command our attention, I would gravely remind us that the external world--the one that ought to greatly concern us--does demand our attention as well. The mission of our Church--and more importantly the Great Commission--requires us to be concerned about the least of these. The condition of our country at this juncture in history makes it evident that we cannot be concerned only about our problems as individuals, as organizations, and as the Church. My passion at this moment is the upcoming Presidential election. At this historic time all of us--Democrats, Independents, and Republicans--should realize the importance of casting our vote in the November election. I, therefore, call upon our leaders to vigorously utilize the genius of our system--from the bishop to the presiding elder, to the pastor, to the class leader, to the individual member--and engage us in voter education, voter registration, and "get out the vote."

There are enough members of the Church to make a real difference. We will, however, have to wholeheartedly exercise the power of our leadership. No half-hearted, by-the-way announcements, with no follow-up will suffice. We need at this time to make a concerted effort to reach all unregistered voters in our community. We need to urge them to register--even escorting them. We need to make a unified effort to see that all registered voters go to the polls on November 4--even providing transportation, if necessary.

Let's all pull together and make a difference in this 2008 election!

*Dr. Jamye Coleman Williams is a retired General Officer of the AME Church

4. WE DEFINE OURSELVES BY HOW WE HANDLE OUR NEEDS AND OUR WANTS:

*The Rev. N.T. Pitts

It is reasonable for us to assume that most of our frustrations, most of our financial problems, most of our physical health problems such as high blood pressure, and nervous breakdowns are all the result of our pursuit to fulfill our wants and not our need.

We spend money we haven't got, to buy things we don't need to impress people we can't stand. And when trouble comes we pray and expect God to bail us out.

How much space would you need if you got rid of all of the things in your house you really didn't need? Paul wrote to the Philippians, "God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus 4:19 Paul was writing to church folk.

How many suits, pairs of shoes, hats, shirts and trousers do you really need? Do you need the expensive jewelry, diamonds, etc? How many automobiles do you need? You can only prove your superiority if you could drive more than one at a time. Many of us believe that we must "make a statement" and cars and things help us to make statements.

Some of us believe that our "wants" are needed to define who we are. Our closets are crammed with clothes and shoes we will never wear; some still have tags on them.

Some of us are like the foolish farmer.

People are murdering their whole families and committing suicide; all because they cannot get or maintain their wants.

Politicians and CEO's destroy their careers because of their unethical shrewdness in trying to acquire wealth. Some people, and including some church folk, have brought disgrace on their families by their greed which resulted in failure; and they have to live with that for the rest of their lives.

Yes, it is without a doubt; greed will grind you into grits. But we must let grace, not greed rule our lives. We come into this world with nothing and we will leave the same way that we came into the world. Paul also stated, "Not that I speak in respect of want; for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content". Philippians 4:11.

This does not infer nor does it approve laziness. But we must not allow our wants to overshadow our need. So don't let your greed make you gritty.

*The Rev. N.T. Pitts is a retried AME pastor who lives in Eatonville, Florida (11th Episcopal district)

5. THE 46TH ANNUAL MEN’S DAY AT ST. JAMES AME CHURCH IN DENTON, TEXAS:

A legacy of firsts was celebrated and continued when the second oldest church in Denton County and only African Methodist Episcopal Church in Denton, Texas; 133 year old - St. James A.M.E. Church, where the Rev. Dr. Sherryl A. Matlock is Pastor observed its 46th Annual Men’s Day with precedent’ setting speakers highlighting the Sunday, August 17, 2008, Morning and Afternoon Worship Services.

Bringing with him a family and 19 ½ years of experience, Denton’s first African American Fire Department Official, Captain Quentin Brown, a native of the Katrina-ravaged New Orleans, Louisiana, area, spoke during the Morning Worship Service emphasizing the importance of having and prioritizing and enduring relationships and allegiance, first to God, next t o family and friends, and then to the workplace. He charged us to know who we are and to not forget where we came from; but rather to always return to our beginnings and give something back to the community.

Chief Roy Minter, Jr., Denton’s first African American Chief of Police, a native of Detroit, Michigan, and a dedicated father with 25 years of prior police work in the Houston, Texas and Aurora, Colorado Police Departments gave the afternoon Keynote Address. He focused on the need for every community in Denton to work together to help toward ending the downward spiraling of our youth, particularly, our young African American men who tend to gravitate toward such infamous choices as drugs, street crimes, and other acts of violence which often result in dismal features, incarceration, or death.

Because of such men of valor who by their accomplishments serve as role models to show by example how setting goals, putting forth effort, and being determined can bring about satisfying rewards; St. James A.M.E. Church and its Men continue its legacy of recognizing precedence and perpetuating the faith through service to God and to man. Indeed, our church motto: God our Father, Man our Brother, and Christ our Redeemer was exemplified.

Sister Cassandra J. Jones-Reporting
St. James AME Church Public Relations Chairperson

6. THE MARION DISTRICT OF THE SEVENTH EPISCOPAL DISTRICT AT WORK - RECLAIMING, REAFFIRMING, REVISITING: THE VISION:

The Marion District Christian Education Conference was held May 30-31, 2008, under the dynamic leadership of Presiding Elder Dr William Smith, Jr. The Conference convened at Bethel A.M.E.C., Bethel Britton Neck, Britton Neck, South Carolina, where Rev. R. L. Brown serves as Pastor, Bro. Charles R. Graves (host Christian Education Director) and Sister Miranda Davis, Assistant Director Christian Education Director. The Conference theme: “Reclaiming, Reaffirming, Revisiting: The Vision”, background scripture Habakkuk 2:2-4.

The Conference was well planned and organized by the Marion District Christian Education Board (Dean-Rev. Matthew Furness, Assistant Dean-Rev. Jonathan Greene, Assistant Christian Education Director-Brother Ricarldo Washington, Members-Rev. R.L. Brown, Rev. Donnie McBride, Sister Pamela Williams and Sis. Shirley Jones, Christian Education Director Sis. Phyllis Reaves and Presiding Elder William Smith, Jr. The Conference proved to be an extraordinary experience, involving youth and adults of all ages. The Marion District has taken a pivotal role in educating and equipping members to become stronger, more knowledgeable disciples by providing informative training sessions.

The Conference opened on Friday evening with the worship experience. The hour of power proved to be electrifying and soul stirring, as Rev. Dr Charles Young, President of Allen University, Columbia, South Carolina delivered the message in accordance with the conference theme, “Reclaiming, Reaffirming, Revisiting: The Vision.” Dr. Young’s challenging subject was, “People of Vision”, supported by Isaiah 6:1-6.

Dr. Young emphasized, “You either manage change or become a victim of change. People with a vision are able to manage change, and conquer adversity. Recognition of that ability coupled with resources creates opportunity.” A powerful, yet thought provoking message. The William Smith, Jr. Voices of Praise echoed the goodness of Jesus through the ministry of music.

On Saturday, participants were encouraged to expand their leadership ability, and properly organize effective functional ministries / organizations. Nine informative training sessions were offered for the Clergy, Christian Education Directors/Church School Superintendent, Lay Organization, Missionaries/YPD, DMC, Sons of Allen, Health Ministry, and Youth Ministry (Mime and Step), and RAYAC.

At the conclusion of the training sessions, all attendees reassembled for a powerful plenary session led by Sister Kabrina Bass, the 7th Episcopal District Christian Education Director, entitled: “There is Strength in Unity.” Sister Bass emphasized the importance of oneness and unity within the A.M.E. church. The Conference concluded with a panel discussion, with Rev. Dr. William Smith, Jr., along with workshop presenters. The panel discussion entitled, “Where Do We Go from Here”. The discussion offered departing direction and instruction for the District, endowing attendees with the necessary tools of empowerment to go back to the local church with a new “Vision”. The Marion District is an inclusive District of dedicated Pastors and Laity, working together for the cause of Christ, under the dynamic leadership of Rev. Dr. William Smith, Jr. and Mrs. Angela Hawthorne Smith.

To God Be the Glory for an educational, fruitful, and spirit-filled Conference.

Respectfully Submitted,
Ms Phyllis Reaves, Christian Education Director
The Rev. Matthew Furness, Dean of Christian Education
The Rev. Jonathan Greene, Assistant Dean of Christian Education

7. JOHNSON CHAPEL AME CHURCH CELEBRATES 111TH BIRTHDAY:

By: Delanda S. Johnson

On Sunday, August 24, Johnson Chapel AME Church celebrated its 111th birthday with excitement, courage, and most all faith.

Organized in 1897 in the Cedar Creek bottom under a brush arbor on the Abe Johnson’s farm, to its present location 1403 West Royall Blvd; Hwy 31 Malakoff; Johnson Chapel AME Church has stood the test of time.

Now under the leadership of Rev. Fredrick V. Moss, Johnson Chapel is a church on the move once again. “I have a vision of growth for this church. We are about helping people in the community whenever help is needed. We are here to empower and lead lost souls to Christ,” said Moss.

Mrs. Carrie Morgan granddaughter of the Abe Johnson stated, “that it’s always wonderful to come home and to be apart of the homecoming services at Johnson Chapel.”

Other descendants of Abe Johnson, Ava Wheatley, Allan Morgan, and Wanda Morgan all expressed their vision for the church and their family legacy.

Rev. Velma Coleman, Pastor of Victory Temple Cathedral AME Church, Dallas, Texas brought the homecoming message. “I can praise the Lord at anytime and anywhere, but to still be standing for 111 years that is amazing. Someone had a vision for this church and we praise God that the vision still lives on,” said Coleman.

Rev. Coleman posed a question to the congregation, “Why is the church still here?”

“My answer to this question is easy. If you look at the gospel according to John 3:16-17; “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved.”

The answer to the church as to why we are still here on hwy 31 after 111 years is that “Everybody ought to know who Jesus is,” said Coleman.

Coleman noted that there were still people who did not know who Jesus was and that freedom that HE can bring to their lives.

Coleman stated, “That there are people who are homelessness, behind prison bars, in need of financial aid, etc., who don’t know who Jesus is. However, the church is still here to recommend Jesus. He is a friend that will never leave you nor forsake you; he will be closer to you than a brother; so you ask, “Why the church is still here?” It’s here so that everyone will know who Jesus is.”

Today people are walking in fear. The fear of gang violence, parents in fear of their children, fear of losing their jobs, fear in wars on the other side of the world, etc., so the solution is that “Everybody ought to know who Jesus is.”

“Jesus came to restore righteousness in the world. Jesus came to establish God’s kingdom in the world. Jesus came to bring the fallen man back to God. Jesus came to show us how to love everybody. Jesus came to show us how to live the life in prayer and that there’s power in prayer,” said Coleman.

Coleman noted to the congregation that Jesus is the answer to all problems that you may have. Jesus said, “I be lifted up; I’ll draw all men unto me.” This is why “Everybody ought to know who Jesus is.”

Coleman stated, “Jesus was the one who was wounded for our transgressions. Jesus was the one who was bruised for every sin that we committed. Jesus took the latches on His back and they gave Him no peace. He took the slaps on His face and they gave Him no peace. He took the sham, mocking, etc., and they gave Him no peace. He allowed they strip Him of his clothes; embrace Him in front to many and they gave Him no peace. Everything that He endured was for our peace. So, if you say that you have no PEACE, then there is something wrong with you.” This is why “Everybody ought to know who Jesus is.”

“As we come here to celebrate 111 years; we should be the church that tells everybody about Jesus. Whatever projects that we may have going on in the church, let us be the church that tells somebody about Jesus,” said Coleman.

That is why “Everybody ought to know who Jesus is.”

The Rt. Rev. Gregory G. M. Ingram, Presiding Prelate
The Rev. Dr. Jessica Kendall Ingram, Episcopal Supervisor

8. THE PASTOR’S CORNER – S.H.A.P.E.: FINDING AND FULFILLING YOUR UNIQUE PURPOSE FOR LIFE SPIRITUAL GIFTS REVELATION:

*The Rev. James M. Moody

When the Apostles in Jerusalem heard that Samaria had accepted the word of God, they sent Peter and John to them. When they arrived, they prayed for them that they might receive the Holy Spirit, because the Holy Spirit had not yet come upon any of them. They had simply been baptized into the name of the Lord Jesus. Then Peter and John placed their hands on them, and they received the Holy Spirit. Acts 8:14-17

While studying our “S.H.A.P.E.” – “Your God-given special design and the specific difference God desires for you to make on earth for His glory” – the word of God reminded me of the following truths.

God is a Trinity – God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit. God is three who are one. God the Father calls us into relationship with Himself and sent God the Son to sacrifice His life and rise from the dead to save us from His wrath into right relationship, all done by the power of God the Holy Spirit. This is orthodox, fundamental Christianity.

Acts 8:14-17; Acts 19:1-7 – We are to receive the Holy Spirit. Have you asked Him to enter into you and fill you with His presence and to demonstrate His power through the working of Spiritual gifts through your life?

I Corinthians 12:4-5 – The Holy Spirit must be allowed to work or manifest or make real the gifts of the Holy Spirit in our lives.

We cannot counterfeit the gifts of the Spirit because (John 3: 1-8) the Holy Spirit is attempting to give birth to something spiritual in us at a spiritual level. Any attempt to counterfeit the work of the Holy Spirit is a form of what is known as being carnal.

We can sometimes lose sight of the working of the Spirit and attempt to bring about results at the level of our soul (will, intellect, or emotions) or body (drives, instincts, or physical operations). This results in an abortion of what the Holy Spirit was giving birth to in the person’s life and in the lives of those God was trying to reach.

A person with the gift of leadership may attempt to lead in his/her own will, intellect, or emotions and not by the wisdom of the Spirit. Instead of shared vision, cooperation and empowerment among those being led, the results are confusion, conflict, frustration, bitterness, etc. People get hurt, disrespected, or worse.

A person with the gift of mercy may attempt to force others to change. Instead of growth, empowerment, and transformation in the lives of those in need of help, the results are conflict, resentment, division, etc. People get manipulated, disrespected or worse.

A person with the gift of evangelism may attempt to impose the gospel and the need to share it on others. Instead of conversion in the lives of those targeted to receive the good news and building of the kingdom, the results are an inappropriate level of intensity, an exaggerated sense of urgency, impatience, division, etc. People resent the approach and miss the message of God’s love.
This list need not go on any further. We all get the picture.

Luke 1:26-38 – The Holy Spirit is attempting to give birth to something spiritual in us at a spiritual level that is manifest or made evident in the physical realm. As the angel Gabriel spoke to Mary the Mother of Jesus, he told her, “You will…give birth to…the Son of the Most High.” Because of all the evidence to the contrary, Mary questioned the veracity of the claim. The angel answered, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you…So the holy one to be born will be…the Son of God.” It was in yielding to the presence of the Holy Spirit that Mary said, “I am the Lord’s servant. May it be to me as you have said.”

The Son of God was born to her. Our Savior was brought into the physical realm. Salvation was purchased on the Cross of Calvary and the Resurrection power lifted all of us into new life.

Now that’s Good News!

I highly recommend Erik Rees’ book, “S.H.A.P.E.” for any person desiring to answer the question, “What will be the contribution of my life?” Textbooks, workbooks, and a video learning series are available for individuals and groups at:
http://www.purposedriven.com/en-US/SHAPE/welcome.htm

*The Rev. James M. Moody is the pastor of Quinn Chapel AME Church, Chicago

Copyrights © 2008 by the Rev. James M. Moody. All rights reserved. No part of this article may be copied or reproduced without the written permission of the author

To contact the writer go to quinnamechicago@sbcglobal.net

9. THE 3rd EPISCOPAL DISTRICT ANNUAL CONFERENCE SCHEDULE:

The Rt. Rev. C. Garnett Henning, Sr., Presiding Prelate
Mrs. Ernestine Lee Henning, Episcopal Supervisor

South Ohio Annual Conference
September 9
(WMS)

September 10 - 14
Annual Conference
Lee Chapel AMEC
The Reverend Kevin Cooper, Pastor
2009 Pogue Street
Cincinnati, OH 45208
Phone: 513-871-5885

Ohio Annual Conference
September 23
(WMS)

September 24 - 28
Annual Conference
St. John AMEC (Worthington)
The Reverend Jermaine Covington, Pastor
7700 Crosswoods Dr.
Columbus, OH 43235
Phone: 614-888-0894

North Ohio Annual Conference
October 7
(WMS)

October 8 - 12
Annual Conference
St. John AMEC
The Reverend Taylor T. Thompson, Pastor
2261 East 40th Street
Cleveland, OH 44103
Phone: 216-431-2560

3rd District Planning Meeting
October 31-November 1, 2008
Renaissance Hotel
Columbus, Ohio
The Rev. Dr. William Wheatley, Host Pastor, Mt. Vernon AMEC

10. THE 10TH EPISCOPAL DISTRICT SCHEDULE 2008 ANNUAL CONFERENCE SCHEDULE:

The Right Reverend Gregory G.M. Ingram, Presiding Prelate
The Rev. Dr. Jessica Ingram, Episcopal Supervisor

2008 Northwest Texas Annual Conference
September 8 –September 13, 2008

September 6, 2008 – YPD Day
September 8, 2008 – Missionary Day
September 9, 2008 – The Gathering of Women
September 9, 2008 – Opening Worship
Host Church – Anderson Chapel AME Church
Host Pastor – The Rev. William Campbell
Venue site: Killeen Civic and Conference Center
3601 South WS Young Drive
P.O. Box 1329 (76540)
Killeen, Texas 76543
254-501-3888
Host Hotel: Hilton Garden Inn - Killeen
2704 O.W. Curry Drive
Killeen, Texas 76542
Reservation – 254-554-3900
Deadline for reservations – August 26, 2008
Cost per night – $99.00

2008 North Texas Annual Conference
September 22 – September 27, 2008

September 20, 2008 – YPD Day
September 22, 2008 – Missionary Day
September 23, 2008 – The Gathering of Women
September 23, 2008 – Opening Worship
Host Church- Bethel Greenville
Host Pastor – The Rev. Ray Charles Williams
Hampton Inn & Suites
3001 Kari Lane
Greenville, Texas 75402
Reservations – 903-457-9200
Deadline for reservations – September 5, 2008
Cost per night – $99.00

2008 Southwest Texas Annual Conference
October 6 – October 11, 2008

October 4, 2008 – YPD Day
October 6, 2008 – Missionary Day
October 7, 2008 – The Gathering of Women
October 7, 2008 – Opening Worship
Host Church – Metropolitan AME Church
Host Pastor – The Rev. N. Jordan Mkwanazi
Crowne Plaza Hotel
6121 N IH 35
Austin, Texas 78752
Reservations – 512-323-5466
Deadline for reservations – September 15, 2008
Cost per night – $104.00

2008 Texas Annual Conference
October 20 – October 25, 2008

October 18, 2008 – YPD Day
October 20, 2008 – Missionary Day
October 21, 2008 – The Gathering of Women
October 21, 2008 – Opening Worship
Host Church – Jones AME Church
Host Pastor – The Rev. Robert Green
Sheraton North Houston
15700 John F. Kennedy Blvd
Houston, Texas 77032
Reservations – 281-442-5100
Deadline for reservations – October 1, 2008
Cost per night – $99.00

Planning Meeting 2008
November 12 – November 15, 2008
Hyatt Regency North Dallas (formerly – The Richardson Hotel)
701 E. Campbell Road
Richardson, Texas
Reservations – 972-231-9600
Deadline for reservations – October 29, 2008
Cost per night – $125.00
Host Church – Greater Allen Temple
Host Pastor – The Rev. Samuel Baker

11. CLERGY FAMILY CONGRATULATORY NOTICE:

The Reverend William M. Campbell, Jr. - Senior Pastor of Anderson Chapel A.M.E. Church, Killeen, Texas received the Master of Divinity Degree from George W. Truett Theological Seminary of Baylor University in Waco, Texas on May 16, 2008. The recent graduate has begun studies for the Doctor of Ministry Degree at Drew University in Madison, NJ. Congratulatory messages can be sent to: The Reverend William M. Campbell, Jr. Anderson Chapel A.M.E. Church 1002 Jefferies Avenue Killeen, Texas 76543 (254) 690-5030 - phone (254) 690-6453 - fax Email: pastorc@hot.rr.com

12. FOLLOW-UP - EPISCOPAL PRAYER REQUEST: CHRISTOPHER BYRD, SON OF BISHOP AND MRS. BYRD:

Bishop and Mrs. Vernon R. Byrd extends gratitude to the Bishops of the Church and all of African Methodism for the many prayers of petition issued on behalf of their son Christopher; for the many telephone calls received; cards of encouragement received; and for other acts of compassion and caring. Christopher's condition is improving.

However, Bishop and Mrs. Byrd request your continued prayers for their son, Christopher.

13. THANK YOU FROM THE STAN MCKENZIE FAMILY:

I ( we ) would like to thank Bishop and Supervisor David ( Irene ) Daniels, P.E. Allen Parrott, the Rev. Dr. Ronnie Brailsford, the Rev. Cryor, and the host of other AME pastors, ministers, and layperson's in South Carolina who surprised us by attending the funeral of my big brother. We are thankful for all of the courtesies we received... the care and concerns of the Connectional family.

You didn't have to do it, but you did. Thanks again.

Stan McKenzie and Bishop Vashti Murphy McKenzie

14. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

The 8th Episcopal District is saddened to share news of the passing of Mrs. Maude Dupor, the sister (only sibling) of the Rev. Lloyd Washington. Mrs. Dupor passed on August 24, 2008.

The Rev. Lloyd Washington is the pastor of St. James A.M.E. Church, Hammond, Louisiana, Greater New Orleans-Greensburg District, Louisiana Conference. Rev. Joseph H. Cyprian is the Presiding Elder and Bishop Carolyn Tyler Guidry is the Presiding Prelate.

Please pray for Rev. Washington and his family.

Service arrangements for Mrs. Maude Dupor:

Funeral service
Saturday, August 30, 2008
10:00 a.m.

Asia Baptist Church
1400 Sere Street
New Orleans, LA
(504) 301-9227

Services provided by:
Gertrude Geddes Funeral Home
2120 Jackson Avenue
New Orleans, LA
(504) 522-2525

15. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

We regret to inform you of the passing of Sister Phonzetta Ladson, the sister of Reverend Leroy Ladson, pastor at Bethel AMEC, Stamford, CT (New England Conference). The following information has been provided regarding funeral arrangements.

Viewing will be held on Friday, September 5, 2008, 6:00 - 7:00 p.m.

Funeral: Saturday, September 6, 2008, 10:00 a.m.

Bethel AME Church
420 North Main Street
Freeport, NY 11520
Phone: 516-379-1513
Fax: 516-378-1572

The Rev. Harry J. White II, Pastor

Condolences may be sent to:
The Reverend Leroy Ladson and family
C/o Bethel AMEC
Freeport, NY

Or

82 Ralsey Road
Stamford, CT 06902

Please keep this family in your prayers.

Dolores M. Clinton
1st Episcopal District
Phone: 215-662-0506
Fax: 215-662-0199

16. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

The 2nd Episcopal District sadly announces the death of one of our Shepherds, the Rev. Henry D. Harper. Rev. Harper was actively serving as Pastor of St. Mark A.M.E. Church, Oxon Hill Maryland in the Capitol District of the Washington Conference. Rev. Harper was the founding Pastor of St. Mark and will be sadly missed by the 2nd Episcopal District and the loved ones he leaves behind; his wife Margaret Harper and their daughter Jessica.

Funeral Arrangements for the Rev. Henry Harper are as follows:

Wake/Memorial Service:
Friday, September 5, 2008
7:00 p.m. to 9:00 pm
St. Mark A.M.E. Church
5427 Indian Head Highway
Oxon Hill, MD 20745
Phone: (301) 567-4129

Service of Celebration:
Saturday, September 6, 2008
11:00 a.m.
Reid Temple AME Church
11400 Glendale Blvd.
Glenn Dale, MD 20769
Phone: (301) 352-0320

The body of Rev. Harper will lie in state at St. Mark AME Church for 24 hours, from 9:00 a.m. on Friday, September, 5 until 9:00 a.m. on Saturday, September 6: 24 hours symbolic of the 24 years he served in pastoral ministry at St. Mark, the church he founded.

St. Mark AME Church
Presiding Elder Goodwin Douglas, Interim Pastor

The Rev. Goodwin Douglas, Presiding Elder, Capitol District, Washington Conference

Bishop Adam Jefferson Richardson, Jr., Presiding Prelate, Second Episcopal District

Condolences and expressions of sympathy may be sent to:

Mrs. Margaret Harper
C/o St. Mark AME Church
5427 Indian Head Highway
Oxon Hill, Maryland 20745

(301) 567-4129

Contact: Sister Sylvia Dickens, Administrative Assistant

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

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

Ora L. Easley, Administrator
AMEC Clergy Family Information Center
E-mail: Amespouses1@bellsouth.net
Phone: (615) 837-9736
Voice Mail: (615) 833-6936
Fax: (615) 833-3781
Cell: (615) 403-7751

18. 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 (8/28/08)

Bishop Richard Franklin Norris - Chair, Commission on Publications
The Reverend Dr. Johnny Barbour, Jr., Publisher
The Reverend Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III, Editor, The Christian Recorder

THOUGHT FOR THE WEEK:

"Be sure you put your feet in the right place, then stand firm.” — President Abraham Lincoln

1. EDITORIAL – THE INWARDNESS AND THE OUTWARDNESS OF WORSHIP:

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

Spiritual worship, for me, is an inward act; or at least the first part of spiritual worship is an inward act.

This past week, I read Howard Thurman’s book, The Creative Encounter and was mesmerized by the depth of Dr. Thurman’s thoughts. I was especially moved by his comments about the religious experience in which he said, “But there remains a private, personal world which I claim as uniquely my own” and explained, “In authentic religious experience the individual is himself (herself) totally involved.” He went on to state, “The central fact in the religious experience is the awareness of meeting God” with varied results: “sometimes it is called an encounter; sometimes, a confrontation; and sometimes, a sense of presence.”

Oftentimes the inwardness of the religious experience is neglected and made subordinate to the outward expressions of worship. I often hear pastors and televangelists comparing the worship service to a sporting event and encouraging the people to “get their praise on” and “act like spectators at a football game.” I personally have had a problem with that analogy because worship, for me, is not like attending an athletic event.

When I attend a football game or another athletic event I can yell as loudly as the next fan because I want my team to win and I want to inspire the athletes to perform at their highest levels to insure a win. At an athletic event I don’t know the outcome until the end of the event; I am on “pins and needles” until the end of the game and I am excited along with the other fans. If my team wins, I feel good and if my team loses, I am disappointed.

In my spiritual life and at worship services, I know the outcome. There are no surprises because I have accepted Jesus Christ as my Lord and Savior and I believe that God has raised Him from the dead. I am locked for eternity; I don’t have to hope for victory; I have victory. My team has won.

When I served in the military overseas, the football games were shown on a delayed telecast and most often I knew the scores by the time the game was televised. I didn’t have nearly the energy in watching the games whose outcomes I already knew. Usually when one looks at a rerun and especially if one knows the outcome or the final score, there is not a lot of yelling because you know the outcome. There may be a yell or a shout if an amazing play took place, but not nearly the enthusiasm as when one is watching a live game.

As it relates to the Christian message, those of us who are saved by grace know the outcome, Jesus has saved us and Heaven is our home; no need for a lot of excitement, because the outcome is known.

When we are saved, we can relish in the Peace of Christ and bring others to Christ; and there might be excitement in bringing others to Christ. So, I would hypothesize that, in church, we are not at an athletic event and ordinarily there is little reason for Christians to act like we are at an athletic event. Now, if something unusual takes place; a great play, a healing, a blessing, a deliverance, a baptism; then there would be a cause for excitement. A seeker or someone trying to find his or her way to Jesus Christ should be excited and the congregation should be excited for and with them, at least, until he or she discovers the outcome; that Jesus Christ has saved them from their sins. At that point, worship is a relationship with God and a gathering of spiritual resources for deepening our spiritual journey; and for each of us, loving God and loving our neighbor.

That’s the case for what Thurman calls, “The inwardness of religion.”

Not only does spiritual worship have inward dimension, but balanced spiritual worship has an outward component. A popular quote in many church bulletins reads, “Enter to Worship, Depart to Serve.” Howard Thurman says that the “externalizing of one’s inner religious experience becomes one’s response to the God of one’s religious experience.

Spiritual worship, then, involves speaking to God, listening to God; that results in obedience to God and the “doing” or in the words of Isaiah, the, “Here am I Lord, Send me.”

No, in church, I am not at a football game or another athletic event as an excited spectator; rather I am a participant and worshipper in the eschatological event.

I do not have a problem with spirited worship, as a matter of fact, I can get as excited as the next worshipper, but I don’t want worship leaders and worshippers to neglect the inwardness of worship.

2. READER RESPONSE TO EDITORIAL AND OTHER ISSUES:

- To the Editor

RE: Editorial – Two Books - A Must Read for Pastors:

Bob Briner's book on the Management techniques of Jesus is available on www.amazon.com.

Judge Ted R. Newman
Metropolitan AME Church
Washington, DC

- To the Editor:

RE: Editorial – Two Books - A Must Read for Pastors:

God bless you for the work you do with the Christian Recorder. As an FYI.... copies of the abovementioned book (Briner) may be found at abebooks.com. It is an excellent site for locating hard-to-find books. I bought the complete 13-volume set of the old Interpreter's Bible at this site for $98 (incl. s/h). It was in mint condition. This site was extremely useful to me as I progressed through the seminary and the Board of Examiners. I hope it may bless you and others similarly.

The Rev. Andra D'Etta Hoxie
First AME Church, Manassas

3. ADDENDUM TO THE 48TH SESSION OF THE GENERAL CONFERENCE QUADRENNIAL REPORT OF THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER:

Ph.D. Candidate John Thomas III was the person who sparked the foreign language translation of The Christian Recorder and the foreign language materials in the various publications in the African Methodist Episcopal Church.

I failed to acknowledge him when I gave The Christian Recorder Quadrennial Report at the 2008 General Conference. I will add his name and contribution to future historical reports of The Christian Recorder.

4. THE REVISED AME CHURCH MOTTO ADOPTED BY THE 48TH QUADRENNIAL SESSION OF THE 2008 GENERAL CONFERENCE:

English:

“GOD OUR FATHER, CHRIST OUR REDEEMER, THE HOLY SPIRIT OUR COMFORTER, HUMANKIND OUR FAMILY”

Spanish:

EL LEMA DE LA IGLESIA DE A.M.E.

“DIOS NUESTRO PADRE, CRISTO NUESTRO REDENTOR,
EL ESPÍRITU SANTO NUESTRO CONSOLADOR, HUMANIDAD NUESTRA FAMILIA”

5. URGENT PRAYER REQUEST FROM AME-INDIA:

Since the beginning of this week there has been widespread attack on Christians in the State of Orissa and stray attacks on Christian missionaries in other parts of the country. These attacks are initiated by the right wing Hindu fanatics who have a lot of political clout in the states ruled by their people. Unfortunately due to the Christian theology of Love and Forgiveness, the Christians have never retaliated to such brute and ruthless attacks ever in the history of Indian Christianity.

As per the news reports a large number of houses and churches were torched by irate mob in several areas including Nuagaon, Raikia, Udaygiri, Phiringia and Baliguda. Churches were attacked in Khurda, Bargarh, Sundergarh, Sambalpur, Koraput, Boudh, Mayurbhanj, Jagatsinghpur and Kandhamal districts as also in the state capital. 40 houses were set ablaze in Phulbani town, a Christian populated town in the area.

Another report states that 50 village churches and six convents and other Christian institutions were destroyed or damaged in the violence. Minority communities are increasingly being targeted by the so-called protectors of Indian culture and identity. VHP (Vishwa Hindu Parishad) activists have been blamed for at least three deaths and the burning of 60 churches in Orissa alone.

A Christian nun was murdered, another Christian woman was burnt to death and an orphanage run by Christians was set on fire in which two people were burnt to death. All the twenty children escaped unhurt.

AME-India has two churches in this state in the troubled area. We have not been able to contact with them in this situation. They are Pastor Saurabha Beborta and Pastor Dibya Jothi Limma. Kindly remember them, their families and their congregation in your valuable prayers.

God's peace and protection needs to be established in the troubled areas and let us join together in prayer for the people affected.

With much grievance and prayer,

The Rev. Sarah Peddiny and the Rev. Abraham Peddiny
Presiding Elders - AME-India

6. THE 141ST SESSION OF THE KENTUCKY ANNUAL CONFERENCE:

*The Reverend William R. T. Hale

Saint Peter African Methodist Episcopal Church - Harrodsburg, Kentucky
The Rt. Reverend Vashti Murphy McKenzie,
Presiding Prelate of the 13th Episcopal District

Brother Stan McKenzie, Supervisor of Missions

The Reverend Kenneth Jerome Golphin,
Presiding Elder of the Lexington District

The Reverend Ralph Boyd Smith, Host Pastor

Preceding the 48th Session of the General Conference, darkness had come over the land… rumors and suppositions attacked our worst fears: “Would our Bishop Return?”… a faithless dread had gripped the minds of some: “Surely she won’t return!”… but, then… a voice cried out into the darkness! The light of day arose over the land! And sho’nuff, the “baddest bishop on the bench” — The “Visionary” Vashti, “Magnificent” Murphy, “Moving-Forward” McKenzie, our chief pastor, together with our “Super” Supervisor Stan McKenzie, stepped out from the light… and so began the 141st Session of the Kentucky Annual Conference at Historic Saint Peter African Methodist Episcopal Church!

The direction of the Annual Conference was set by our pre-conference activities, beginning with a wonderful welcome by our hosts at Saint Peter, as the Leadership of Harrodsburg and Mercer County were compelled to come and make us feel “right at home”; leading us into an invigorating day of learning, worshipping and Kingdom business, beginning with the Women’s Missionary Societies’ Prayer Breakfast where the Reverend Sherry Green laid down the kindling for the fire with the message, “God Is The Real Deal!”; then our own Sister Renee Scott-Smith continued that same theme, adding more fuel for the fire, utilizing Proverbs 3:5-6, “Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.” and then at the WMS ‘Night In White’ the Reverend Maxine Thomas ignited the spark that lit the Church on fire, preaching, “Help Me, Somebody!”

Along with the Minister’s Institute, where our own General Officer, the Reverend Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor, III, Editor of The Christian Recorder, ministered to the clergy on the: “Role of the Pastor in the Public Square” and our own Presiding Elder, the Reverend Kenneth Jerome Golphin, reviewed, succinctly, the new legislation from the 2008 General Conference; the expectations for a “Climactic Time” at this Annual Conference was set, and we were ready to be taken to a Higher Level!

The 141st Session of the Kentucky Annual Conference was called to order by our Presiding Prelate, and the roll was called. Our Chief Pastor kept us on a prayerful and spiritual path, setting the tone by introducing the new Quadrennial Theme of the African Methodist Episcopal Church: “A Great Past, A Greater Future, An Incredible Call To Serve: Influence, Inheritance, Integrity and Innovation”!!! This years Connectional Theme “influence” became our focal-point during the Conference Institutes as our own Sister Renee Scott-Smith taught, “Grant Writing 101: Funding Your Ministry” introducing the application, processes and issues pertaining to applying for a Believe Grant, so that our local churches can influence their communities through funded ministries; and the Reverend Dr. Clement W. Fugh, our General Secretary & Chief Information Officer, taught the Conference Institute introducing the online system where the Annual Conference Pastor’s Reports are submitted and managed so we can better utilize technology to influence our record keeping. The Pastor’s Reports gave us a positive testimony into what God is doing throughout the Kentucky Annual Conference: in spite of hard times, struggling memberships and the enemy on every side, the pastor and people stood to declare “We still beleive!” The Committees’ Reports charged us to continue doing what the church is suppose to be doing: Going into Prisons, Being Persistent in Prayer, Taking Action to Win Souls, Being a Servant like Christ, and Striving for Excellence in ALL we do!

The Gates of Heaven opened up, and the Most High God poured Himself out upon the Kentucky Annual Conference when the preachers of the Gospel led us before God’s Throne… first through the Reverend Troy Irvine Thomas who preached the Annual Sermon, "You Have What It Takes!"; then through our Sons of Allen/Nehemiah Nation preacher the Reverend MacArthur Pendleton who asked 3 questions, “Where Art Thou?”, “Can These Bones Live?” and “Who Do They Say I Am?”; and at the Hour of Power, the Reverend Sherry Miller set us ablaze with, “It’s Time To Celebrate!” and at the Lay Witness Night, Sister Doretha Sanders (of Bethel A.M.E. Church, Campbellsville, Kentucky), ministered the hallelujah message, “God’s Delay Is Not God’s Denial!” And didn’t you feel the stirring of the Holy Ghost as our Young People shared with us their gifts of Praise and Thanksgiving?!! … And didn’t our own Kentucky Annual Conference “Whosoever Will” Choir bless us as they blessed the Lord with their Majestic, Magnanimous and Magnificent praise!

A hero of the faith has been called home this Conference year, namely Brother Johnny Bonds, a member of Quinn Chapel, Lexington and a student of the Board of Examiners: Struck with Cancer, which he fought with all his might, but consumed by a voice calling him to tell “the old, old story”, he exemplified Paul’s faith, “To Live Is Christ”, and he left this world with the certainty of faith, “To Die is Gain!”… He is troubled by the pain of this world no more, heaven is his home!

The Reverend Eugene Fuller, the Reverend Romiltia W. Shelton and the Reverend Cecil J. Napier, servants of God and Pastors of God’s People in African Methodism, requested that they might retire from the itinerancy. And though their request for Superannuation status has been “reluctantly” approved by this Annual Conference, let us not forget their contribution to Christ’s Church and the positive influence that their pastoral and teaching ministry will have for generations to come, such as the Reverend Cecil Napier’s retirement message to this Annual Conference, “Take A Bucket of Honey with you Wherever You Go!”

The Conference was blessed to elect and ordain three new Itinerant Deacons in the persons of the Reverend Revonda Bright… the Reverend Sharon Johnson… and the Reverend Stephanie May Raglin; and one new Local Deacon in the person of the Reverend Etolia Carolyn White; and to set the moment in time, the Reverend Dr. Clement W. Fugh, the General Secretary/Chief Information Officer of the African Methodist Episcopal Church, preached with power the Ordination Sermon “A Series of Unfortunate Events!"

One of our own, a son of the Kentucky Annual Conference, with a proven track record and a leader in his own right, the Reverend Dr. Robert A. Strode, announced his intention to seek “the highest office in the land!” He has set his sights on the Episcopacy and with the support of this 141st Session of the Kentucky Annual Conference his campaign is in full thrust toward the Bishopric! May the Lord God Almighty bless his endeavor and have favor on his servant in 2012!

We’ve been given our Marching Orders… the way has been made clear… our Bishop has been to the mountain top and brought us the Word from above… a message for every pastor, parishioner, and community…: “You Can Do it… God Can Help!” Asking, “What Kind of Church do You Want,” but recognizing, that the real question is, “What Kind of Church does God Want?”

Host Pastor Ralph Boyd Smith, Sister Yvonne Smith and the congregation and community of Historic Saint Peter African Methodist Episcopal Church of Harrodsburg, Kentucky are to be given the Highest Commendations, for they hosted this 141st Session in the finest fashion, making us feel Highly Favored… like we was “some’n special!” In 2007 we all wondered, “who would host in 2008?” And look who stepped up!!! With a whole lot of faith and a spiritually positive attitude, Saint Peter Harrodsburg stepped up to the plate… and when the first pitch was thrown … They hit it out of the park!!! They went above and beyond, making Bishop and Supervisor McKenzie, Presiding Elder and First Lady Golphin, and every Pastor, Minister, Delegate, Honored Guest, and Visitor who walked through their doors feel welcome and at home. May God continue to bless their community and their ministry! And the Church Shouted, “Home-Run!”

The new Presiding Elder has truly been “tried by fire”… but the vision, wisdom and tenacity of the Reverend Kenneth Jerome Golphin has truly proven to be the kind of leadership the Kentucky Annual Conference needed! He, together with the first lady of the Lexington District, Sister Dianna Golphin, has prepared for and hosted his first Annual Conference as Presiding Elder with style and finesse! Our hope and prayer is for their swift return, so we can continue the work they’ve begun!!!

The Kentucky Annual Conference is Traveling Forward, and Moving Upward!!! Because We Know that Every Round Goes… “Higher, and Higher!” We’ve been charged up for the work and are ready to be the Disciples whom God has called us to BE! Our Leadership has taken the lead! The issuance of Believe grants to the Reverend Stephanie May Raglin for theological education, the Reverend Sharon Johnson for theological education, and Saint Matthew, Midway, for General Support, are evidence that the Church is giving back and providing resources to help our local churches and congregations to do ministry. So let the Kentucky Annual Conference declares, “we’re ready!” Ready to influence our church, ready to influence our communities, and ready to influence our world! in the Kentucky Annual Conference, we’re ready!!!

And So, when all was said and done, when the appointments were read and all were hopefully satisfied, definitely edified and certainly, spiritually electrified; and when we have adjourned "Sine Die”, that our prayer is “Lord, help us to be agents of influence!” and “Lord, help us to run on and see what the end will be!”; and that the Kentucky Annual Conference has made up it’s mind to “Build The Kind Of Church that God Wants His Church To Be!” … “With God’s help, we can do it!”

*Pastor William R. T. Hale is the pastor of Saint Paul AME Church in Richmond, Kentucky and serves as the Chief Secretary of the Kentucky Annual Conference and Chairperson of the Resolutions Committee

The appointments at the 141st Session of the Kentucky Annual Conference:

Bishop Vashti M. McKenzie made the following Pastoral Appointments, with the Supply Appointments given by the Presiding Elder:

•The Reverend Kenneth J. Golphin – Presiding Elder of the Lexington District
•The Reverend Troy I. Thomas – Saint Paul, Lexington
•The Reverend Everett Hobson – Quinn Chapel, Lexington
•The Reverend Robert A. Strode – Saint John, Frankfort
•The Reverend William C. Jenkins – Saint James, Danville
•The Reverend James E. Smith – Saint Paul, Versailles
•The Reverend William R. T. Hale – Saint Paul, Richmond
•The Reverend Antonio Q. Stuckey – Saint James, Cynthiana
•The Reverend Wink Sweat – Saint James, Covington
•The Reverend Terrance J. Cato – Shorter Chapel, Paris (supply)
•The Reverend Joshua C. Hale – Davis Chapel, Somerset
•The Reverend Sherry Miller – Saint Matthew, Midway
•The Reverend Ralph Boyd Smith – Saint Peter, Harrodsburg
•The Reverend Fred Harris – Bethel, Stanford
•The Reverend MacArthur Pendleton – Bethel, Campbellsville
•The Reverend A.D. Reed – Barnes Temple, Elsmere
•The Reverend Kelvin Robinson – Saint John, Monticello
•The Reverend Richard Watts – Saint James, Ashland
•The Reverend Wanda Ryan – Saint Andrew, Winchester
•The Reverend Robert Taylor – Saint John, Greenup (supply)
•The Reverend Kelvin Robinson – Mount Zion, Frazier
•The Reverend Avis Thompson – Saint Paul, Manchester (supply)
•The Reverend Everhart Walker – Allen Chapel, Moreland
•The Reverend Revonda Bright – Wayman Chapel, Barbourville (supply)
•The Reverend James H. Stowe – Wayman Chapel, Georgetown
•The Reverend Stephanie M. Raglin – Craig Chapel, Salvisa (supply)
•The Reverend Linda Murray – Perkins Chapel, Wilmore (supply)
•The Reverend Sharon W. Johnson – Wilson Chapel, Parksville (supply)
•Brother Jeffery G. Washington – Jacobs Chapel, Turnersville (supply)

The Reverend Kenneth J. Golphin moved that the Conference be closed sine die. The Reverend Troy I. Thomas seconded the motion. The motion carried and so rested the 141st Session of the Kentucky Annual Conference.

7. BISHOP H. H. BROOKINS WILL BE THE FOCUS OF AN UPCOMING DOCUMENTARY / MOVIE ENTITLED, “THE KING MAKER “:

Bishop H. H. Brookins will be featured in a full length movie documentary. David Henry, an Emmy Award Winner, and Tonette Hayes, Producers are very proud to produce this film. Auditions for actors and other positions will be advertised.
Bishop Brookins has been a pioneer for many people, both clergy and lay throughout the United States where Bishop Brookins has served; and has been an inspiration to politicians, civil rights leaders. We want the world to know the major achievements and the exciting lifestyle Bishop Brookins lived over the years. He is a living legend.

Go to www.inkktnet.com to view the pilot. A casting call for actors and children is forthcoming. We will be looking for young actors to play Bishop Brookins as a child, teen and young adult. Interested persons should contact us through the web: www.inkktnet.com

We will also have job interviews posted on the Website in the next few weeks for production managers, assistants; and for other positions. We would like to hire from within the AME Church.

Should you have any questions or concerns please contact us at www.inkktnet.com.

Tonette Hayes and David Henry

8. AME OLYMPIAN WINS SILVER MEAL:

Hyleas Fountain, a member of Central Chapel AME Church in Yellow Springs, Ohio won a silver-medal in the heptathlon in the 2008 Olympic Games in Beijing with a total of 6,619 points. She became the only American woman other than Jackie Joyner-Kersee to ever win an Olympic medal in the heptathlon. She has won numerous athletic events beginning in 2000 when she was the USA Junior high-jump champion; she has won national and international athletic events each year since that time with the culmination of the silver medal in the 2008 Olympics. Fountain narrowly missed qualifying for Athens in 2004, when she finished fourth at U.S. Olympic Trials.

She attended Barton Community College where she won 5 National Junior College Athletic Association titles and was runner-up three times and the University of Georgia, she won the NCAA heptathlon title in 2003 and the outdoor long jump championship in 2004.

Her coach, Mr. Lynn Smith, is also a member Central Chapel AME Church in Yellow Springs. Coach Lynn Smith’s mother is also active member of Central Chapel. Coach Lynn is a survivor of the bombing at the 2000 Olympics in Atlanta.

The Rev. Dr. Betty Holley is the pastor of Central Chapel AME Church.

*Submitted by Mrs. Leanora Brown and Mr. Orlando Brown, the sister and brother-in-law of Bishop William P. DeVeaux and Chaplain (Colonel-Retired) John DeVeaux

9. ST. PHILIP MONUMENTAL A.M.E. CHURCH TO HOLD "ALLEN AND TURNER DAY CELEBRATION":

*Mrs. Diane K. Coleman

Pastor George A. Moore, Jr. and the St. Philip Monumental AME Church family in Savannah, Georgia are preparing to celebrate Allen and Turner Day. The service will be held on Sunday, September 14, 2008. There will be only one worship service at 10:15 a.m. for this day of special celebration.

The Allen and Turner Day Celebration allow us to look back at the lives of the two of the “Giants” of African Methodism; Richard Allen and Henry McNeal Turner.

We have invited another spiritual “Giant” in service to the Lord, the Rev. Matthew Southall Brown, Sr. to deliver the message to help us to pay homage to the outstanding giants of African Methodism.

Our theme for this years’ celebration is, “God’s Grace Is Supreme.”

Sister Sheren Ervin and Brother Charles Nelson are serving as Co-Chairpersons of this event. We cordially invite our families, friends and the community to join us on this momentous occasion. We know that your hearts will be truly blessed. The Rev. George A. Moore, Jr. is the senior pastor of St. Philip Monumental AME Church.

*Mrs. Diane K. Coleman is the Church Reporter for St. Philip Monumental AME Church

10. PRESIDING ELDER ROGER A. SAWTELLE A MAN FOR ALL SEASONS AND A SEASONED EDUCATOR:

The Rev. Roger A. Sawtelle recently completed his 22nd year as Church School Superintendent of the New England Conference of the AME Church.

Looking back on this still incomplete career the veteran Christian educator can see where he has left his mark on many aspects of the church. He is most pleased to be part of a push for excellence in the understanding of the Christian faith and the teaching of our faith.

After serving six years as pastor of Bethel AME Church in historic Lowell, Massachusetts, Rev. Sawtelle was first appointed a Conference Church School Superintendent by Bishop Frank C. Cummings. He immediately began to modernize the position by establishing a budget and yearly schedule of visits. In the New England the Conference Superintendent makes the visits to the 27 churches and missions, scattered over the states of Massachusetts, Connecticut, and Rhode Island to teach, preach, and supervise.

After organizing the Church Schools in New England he noted that the AMEC Sunday School literature needed to be upgraded. To this end in 1992, the Rev. Roger A. Sawtelle ran for the office of the Editor of Religious Literature. This was the General Officer that was responsible for the preparation and editing of the AME Church School lessons.

He enjoyed the opportunity to visit churches outside the First Episcopal District and promised that if he were elected, the AME lessons would be “second to none.” He was not elected in Orlando, because that was the year that the position was abolished with its duties given to the Secretary of the Christian Education Dept. Still he endeavored to do what he could to keep his promise that our literature would be “second to none.”

In this regard the Rev. Sawtelle was a founding member of the AMEC Writers Guild in 1992 and wrote Sunday School Quarterlies usually for the Junior Class on a regular basis until 2006. For 14 years he was very active as an AME member of the Committee for Uniform Series, which is the ecumenical group that plans the Church School curriculum and provides the outline for the Church School Lessons for our denomination and most Sunday Schools worldwide.

In this manner Rev. Sawtelle had the unique position of being directly involved in the planning of the church school lessons, the writing of the Sunday school lessons, the supervision of church school classes, and the teaching of the lessons whenever he had the opportunity. Almost every week fall, summer, and spring, he was making a church school visit in his own conference or wherever he might be attending church.

Another area that needed upgrading was the First Episcopal Church School, which at that time was not recognized, was not organized, and was not meeting. Through the initiative of Rev. Sawtelle and the other Conference Superintendents they initiated the First Episcopal District Annual Church School Seminar and Annual Day in 1993, which provides a full day of inspiration, training, encouragement, and fellowship for teachers, and superintendents throughout the northeast.

Rev. Sawtelle was blessed with an excellent education, and sought to share the insights gathered though this education with all who care to listen and read. He was the product of a fine public school system of Wyoming, Ohio. He chose to attend college at Indiana U. in Bloomington, IN, which had the benefits of a fine large state university and the atmosphere of a small college town. He made full advantage of all the cultural and scholarly opportunities at IU.

He also spent two years at graduate school there studying Russian language, culture, and history in order to understand the conflict between the US and the USSR. Part of this education was a cultural exchange trip to the Soviet Union, Hungary, and Poland during the summer of 1961, the summer of the building of the Berlin Wall.

Rev. Sawtelle was also blessed with an excellent education at Harvard Divinity School. With the conflict over civil rights in full swing and the War in Viet Nam on the horizon, he answered the call to the ministry and entered seminary. During the summers he worked in the South doing civil rights work and working with Rev. James M. Lawson at Centenary UM Church in Memphis.

Upon graduation from Harvard Divinity Rev. Sawtelle served as pastor of North Kingstown UM Church, the Wareham and Marion, MA UM Parish, and the Brayton and Quarry St. UM Parish in Fall River, MA. He made the decision to leave the United Methodist Ministry and found employment working as a Social Worker for the Department of Public Welfare in New Bedford, MA, and later as a training officer and supervisor.

In 1977 Rev. Sawtelle attended Bethel AME Church in Fall River one Sunday morning and never returned to the United Methodist Church. Soon he heard a renewed call to the ministry and was admitted to the New England Annual Conference in 1978. He was ordained deacon in 1979 and itinerant elder in 1981. He is the son and grandson of Sunday School Teachers and Superintendents. In 1999 he married the lovely Ann B. Jasper at Bethel AME Church in Bloomfield, CT.

We all know that education is the way forward in today’s world. Secular education needs to be linked with Christian education so our faith keeps pace with our mind. There is nothing wrong with the AME Church. Yes, she has weaknesses as do all churches, but her strengths and possibilities far outweigh the problems. We need to trust in the Holy Spirit to lead us to doing our part to strengthen our faith, our church, and the universal Christian Community.

The AME Church has a special calling and mission to the African American community in the United States and around the world. That is true and incontrovertible. However, she cannot serve the Black community without addressing the needs of the greater community. Both Black and White communities need to understand and address this real situation. Rev. Sawtelle has served as president of the Merrimack Valley Branch NAACP.

The greater community is facing three vital challenges. The first is intellectual issues in the Christian faith and the Western tradition caused by recent scientific and philosophical developments. The second is the spiritual attack on our faith by Islam. And the third is the intellectual attack on our faith by scientism and materialism.

Rev. Sawtelle as part of his education ministry has written two ground-breaking books addressing these crucial issues: The GOD Who Relates; African-American Trinitarian Theology, The Complex One and The Simple One; Relational Christianity and Absolute Islam in Today’s World. He is currently working on a third book: Beyond Evolution; Christianity, Science, and Philosophy Today. These ground-breaking books step into the vacuum created by the sterile debate between fundamentalism, liberalism, and materialism to demonstrate the real power of relational Christianity to meet the needs of today’s world. They can be purchased through Amazon.com or his website, www.rightrelates.org .


11. BISHOP DAVID DANIELS LEADS MINNEAPOLIS REVIVAL:

By Charles Hallman, St. Paul-Minneapolis District Reporter

The church sometimes needs “a Holy Ghost preacher” to remind them that they are children of God.

This is what the Right Reverend David R. Daniels, Jr.; the 14th Episcopal District’s presiding prelate did as he led a three-day revival at Wayman, Minneapolis August 11-13.

He is “a Holy Ghost preacher,” says St. Paul-Minneapolis District Presiding Elder Rev. Dr. Alphonse Reff of Bishop Daniels. “The world needs interpreters who can interpret the Word of God,” the presiding elder and pastor of Wayman explains. “We need them to (tell) people that God has something better for them.”

With temperatures reaching 80-plus throughout the three days, Daniels’ nightly sermons brought Holy Ghost heat inside the sanctuary, as he implored the congregation and visitors “to get ready for your breakthrough.”

“It is difficult to sing and shout when you are down and out,” said the bishop. “That’s why we need God.”

Isaiah 54:1-3 was his first night’s text as Daniels reminded everyone that they are God’s creation: “If we are going to get our breakthrough, we need to change what we are. God didn’t make a mistake when He made you. If you want everything to be possible, you want to get with God. He is more than enough.”

Your best is in your future and not in your past, continues Daniels. “Don’t miss out on what God’s best has for your life,” he preached. “God can’t lift you out until you know who you are. With God, there is no limit.

Daniels closed his opening sermon, “I don’t care what you are going through; God will be with you. He is able.”

The bishop spoke the second night from Genesis 40:14, explaining that Joseph is one of his favorite biblical characters. “He was a big dreamer,” Daniels points out. As with Joseph’s brothers, who grew to hate their brother, “When you dream big, people are not going to like you,” he added.

However, Joseph “went from prison to prime minister,” says Daniels. “Like Joseph, you are destined for greatness. We are sons and daughters of God but we don’t always accept that. If God is going to use you, number one – you must be faithful, fruitful and focused. God is setting you up for a major blessing.”

Daniels presented a life plan as he preached from Jeremiah 29:10-11 on the third and final night. “God has some fantastic plans for your life,” he pointed out. “Your future is brighter than your past.”

He suggested that we “Raise your level of expectation now, If you raise it, people will meet you where you place yourself.”; “God has more in store for you than you ever imagined: Break your barriers of your past, you’ve got to break away from your past.”; and “Become what you believe.”

After each sermon, Daniels extended his hand to all those who wished to change their life, whether they already are saved or not. As a result, the altar overflowed each night as individuals of all ages: many sought prayer; many others sought anointing, as the bishop insistently touched each person who stepped forward.

“Bishops are busy, but he is not too busy to come this way,” Reff says of Daniels. The two have been friends for years and has preached several times at Wayman.

“Presiding Elder Reff and I go way back, even before I became Bishop (in 2004),” admits Daniels. “We talk and fellowship and his family are very special to me. He is a guy who goes out and makes relationships, and never forgets those relationships.”

Daniels also spoke at Wayman’s annual African Day service August 10.

The AME Church’s 124th elected and consecrated bishop, Daniels plans to open a new school in Liberia, West Africa in January. “It will be a model school,” he points out. “It will be a community hall and a church on Sunday mornings.”

It is part of Daniels’ “full ministry” there: “We are doing evangelism by providing clean water (by building new wells in the villages), provide a school for their children, a community hall where we can meet and talk, and a church on Sunday mornings where they can worship their God and souls can be saved,” he concludes.

12. MONUMENTAL AME STOCKBRIDGE, GEORGIA CELEBRATES 50TH ANNIVERSARY:

The members of Knights Monumental AME Church, 224 Red Oak Road, Stockbridge, GA 30281 will be celebrating our 50th Church Anniversary on Sunday, September 28, 2008 at 3:30 pm. The preacher for the hour will be Rev. Kenneth E. Marcus, Senior Pastor of Turner Chapel AME, Marietta, GA 30060. Everyone is invited to help us celebrate this most important year in our church history.

For further information, you may contact E. Monique Johnson, Chairperson Church Anniversary Committee at 404-216-3435 or Mildred E. Reed, Committee member at 678-289-1775

13. KNIGHTS MONUMENTAL AME CHURCH CELEBRATES 2008 LAY DAY:

On Sunday, August 24, 2008 at 3:30 pm, Knights Monumental, Stockbridge, Georgia celebrated their Annual Lay Day with Annette S. Curry, President of the Atlanta North Georgia Conference Lay Organization, as the keynote speaker.

The theme for the program was “Unity in the Body of Christ” with Ephesians 4:1-6 as the referenced scripture. She gave a phenomenal speech encouraging the laity and pastor to work together by serving God, church, community and each other. Annette Curry is a member of St. Phillips AME Church and has been elected to various offices including president and vice president in several organizations at St. Phillips. Annette received her Bachelor of Arts Degree in Spanish/English from Morris Brown College and her “Mrs.” degree from Alonzo. They have one son A. Chevez and two granddaughters; Breyonna and Arianna.

Also included on the program was Alice Watson, President South Atlanta District. She did an excellent job introducing Annette Curry with grace and humor.

Samuel Humphrey, President of Knights Monumental Lay Organization presented the “Lay Person of the Year” award to Mildred E. Reed. “The presentation was a total shock,” stated Mildred Reed. She was very humbled and ecstatically pleased to receive the award.

Sister Mildred Reed

14. A CALL TO ACTION: MORE AFRICAN-AMERICAN MISSIONARIES NEEDED:

By Richard Coleman, Director of Mobilization and Candidacy, The Mission Society

The Mission Society, an Atlanta-based, non-denominational missionary sending agency, has one of the highest percentages of African-American long-term missionaries of any traditional missionary sending agency in the United States. With three African-American missionaries out of 225 full-time missionaries in 32 countries, The Mission Society has an African-American missionary population of 1.33 percent. As much as we’d like to feel proud about it, that small percentage is really nothing to boast about.

Many American missionary sending agencies and ethnic groups around the world are asking the question: “Where are the African-American missionaries, and where is the African-American Church?” The Mission Society, founded in 1984 in the Wesleyan tradition, is using its resources and personnel to address this dilemma.

While The Mission Society is a predominantly Caucasian sending agency, it invests a great deal of personnel and resources in mobilizing non-Caucasian individuals and churches. From Brazilians to Kenyans, The Mission Society works globally to mobilize the whole Church to take the whole Gospel to the whole world. In addition, The Mission Society sends representatives to a number of historically black colleges and universities to recruit and mentor students, and to several churches to equip their members for local and international mission. The primary motivation for raising up a more diverse missionary sending force is not for diversity’s sake. Rather the motivation is to encourage the entire Church to play its role in advancing God’s Kingdom.

At The Mission Society, we’ve begun to reframe the issue of missions and mobilization this way: It’s not a matter of if you’re called, but how. If you’re ready to help answer that question and want to learn more about The Mission Society, becoming a missionary or hosting a missions workshop at your church, please call 1.800.478.8963 or visit us online at www.themissionsociety.org.

15. SENDING MISSIONARIES TO AFRICA AND BEYOND:

By Richard Coleman, Director of Mobilization and Candidacy, The Mission Society

Founded in 1984 in the Wesleyan tradition, The Mission Society recruits, trains, and sends Christian missionaries to minister around the world. At present, The Mission Society has more than 225 missionaries in 32 countries.

The Mission Society works to understand the cultures of the countries served, so Mission Society teams can communicate in culturally appropriate ways. We help train personnel in effectively communicating the Gospel cross-culturally. Our global focus has a deep presence in African countries including Ghana, where we have been serving for more than 20 years in areas such as children’s ministry and nutrition programs for malnourished children, church planting and medical ministries. We’ve been serving in Kenya for four years in similar areas, as well as the AIDS orphans ministry and housing program.

We connect those called to cross-cultural ministry to areas around the world where the Lord has opened doors for us to minister to people’s physical and spiritual needs. Our passion is helping individuals and churches realize their God-given vision.

The Mission Society emphasizes entrepreneurship in ministry, providing services that help our missionaries become effective in ministry. We provide extensive training and preparation, counseling, prayer support, and centralized services to simplify missionary life. Our accountants track ministry funds, provide health insurance, offer pension plans, and transfer funds internationally. Our membership in the Evangelical Council for Financial Accountability gives donors the assurance of financial integrity and accountability. The Mission Society doesn’t seek to micro-manage missionaries, but provides the logistical and decision support to help them thrive as they follow God’s call.

The Mission Society receives no denominational funding and is not associated with any one denomination. Its church ministry department provides seminars, workshops, and mentoring for congregations in the United States and overseas, helping equip churches for strategic outreach in their own communities and throughout the world. For more information about The Mission Society, call 1.800.478.8963 or visit www.themissionsociety.org.

16. CLERGY FAMILY PRAYER REQUEST:

My mother, Mrs. Edith J. Campbell of New Jersey has been diagnosed with cancer and is need of the prayers of the righteous. She is the former Conference Branch WMS president of NJ and a life member.

The Reverend William M. Campbell, Jr. - Senior Pastor
Anderson Chapel A.M.E. Church
1002 Jefferies Avenue
Killeen, Texas 76543

254.690.5030 - phone
254.690.6453 - fax

www.andersonchapel.org

17. EPISCOPAL FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

We are saddened to share news of the passing of Mr. Lawrence McKenzie, the oldest brother of Supervisor Stan McKenzie; Supervisor of the Thirteenth Episcopal District African Methodist Episcopal Church.

Service arrangements for Mr. Lawrence McKenzie:

The Funeral Service:
Friday, August 29, 2008
12:00 NOON
Rock of Ages CME Church
1103 Hampton Street
Walterboro, SC 29488

Phone: (843) 549-6282

Professional services are entrusted to:
Marie-Tracy-Bennett Funeral Home
305 Ackerman Street
Walterboro, SC 29488
Phone: (843) 549-5933
Fax: (843) 782-6933
Email: cwfry410@yahoo.com

Condolences and expressions of sympathy may be sent to:

Mrs. Retha McKenzie (spouse) & Family
106 Locust Street
Walterboro, SC 29488
Phone: (843) 893-4395

Condolences and expressions of sympathy may also be sent to:

Bishop Vashti Murphy McKenzie and Supervisor Stan McKenzie
1012 Beech Tree Lane
Brentwood, TN 37027
(Phone) 615- 833-1444

Email: StanMcKenzie44@aol.com (Supervisor Stan McKenzie)

Or to:

500 8th Avenue, South
Nashville, TN 37203
Phone: (615) 242-6814
Fax: (615) 242-2496

Or to:

The funeral home listed above.

The family of Mr. Lawrence McKenzie request that in lieu of flowers, contributions be made to:

The Believe, Inc. C/O The Thirteenth Episcopal District AME ChurchBishop Vashti Murphy McKenzie, Presiding Prelate Contributions may be mailed to:
The Thirteenth Episcopal District AME Church500 8th Avenue, SouthNashville, TN 37203

615-242-6814 - Phone615-242-2496 - FAX

Logistical information: The closet airport is Savannah, GA (SAV), but Charleston is an hour away (CHS) and is a larger city.

Please remember the McKenzie family in your prayers.

18. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

We are saddened to share news of the passing of Ronald Dale Hill, the son of former Connectional Officer, Mrs. Loretta Hill; immediate past Administrator, Christian Debutante-Master Commission.

Service arrangements for Ronald Dale Hill:
Friday, August 29, 2008
6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Quiet Hour
Phillips Upshaw & Richard Funeral Home
1410 E 12th Street
Austin, TX 78702
(Phone) 512-472-1934

Saturday, August 30, 2008
11:00 a.m.
Funeral Service
Grant AME Worship Center
1701 Krammer Lane
Austin, TX 78758
(Phone) 512-339-4726

Expressions of sympathy may be sent to:
Mrs. Loretta Hill and family
1135 Mason Avenue
Austin, TX 78721

Phone: (512)-926-6648
Email: loretta_hill@sbcglobal.net

Submitted by:
Mrs. Gloria Massey Ward
Connectional Administrator, Christian Debutante-Master

19. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

The 8th Episcopal District sadly announces the death of one of our Shepherds, the Rev. Jesse Moore. Rev. Moore was the pastor of King Chapel A.M.E. Church, Many, Louisiana in the Alexandria-Thibodaux District of the Central Louisiana Conference. Rev. Moore will be sadly missed by the 8th Episcopal District and the loved ones he leaves behind; his wife Daphne Moore and their three daughters; Jessica, Jasmine and Jordian. Please remember the Moore family in your prayers.

Funeral Arrangements for the Rev. Jesse Moore:
Wake Service:
Monday, August 25, 2008
6:00 p.m.
St. Matthew A.M.E. Church
1610 Murphy Street
Shreveport, LA 71103
Phone: (318) 221-4593

Funeral Service:
Tuesday, August 26, 2008
11:00 a.m.
St. Matthew A.M.E. Church
1610 Murphy Street
Shreveport, LA 71103
Phone: (318) 221-4593

The Rev. Gwendolyn James, Pastor
The Rev. Otis S. Lewis, Presiding Elder
Bishop Carolyn Tyler Guidry, Presiding Prelate

Arrangements entrusted to:
Benevolent Funeral Home
1624 Milan Street
Shreveport, LA 71103
Phone: (318) 221-1627

Condolences and expressions of sympathy may be sent to:
Mrs. Daphne Moore and family - c/o Benevolent Funeral Home (address above)

20. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

The 8th District suffered the loss of Mrs. Ruth Tillman, widow of the late Rev. Floyd Louis Tillman, Sr. Mrs. Tillman was a member of St. Andrew A.M.E. Church in Gulfport, MS. Please remember the Tillman family in prayer.

Funeral Services for Mrs. Ruth Tillman:

Wednesday, August 27, 2008
10:00 a.m.
St. Andrew A.M.E. Church
2615 Madison Street
Gulfport, Mississippi
Phone: (228) 868-9608

The Rev. Eddie Braziel, Pastor
The Rev. Joseph E. Young, Presiding Elder
Bishop Carolyn Tyler Guidry, Presiding Prelate

Arrangements entrusted to:
J. T. Hall Funeral Home, Inc.
1910 31st Avenue (Box 546)
Gulfport, MS 39502
Phone: (228) 863-8113 or (228) 863-8118
Fax: (228) 864-9194

Condolences and expressions of sympathy may be sent to:
The family of Mrs. Ruth Tillman - c/o J. T. Hall Funeral Home, Inc. (address above)

21. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

The Rev. Alexander Giles, pastor of Bethel A.M.E. Church, Alexandria-Thibodaux District of the Central Louisiana Conference in the 8th Episcopal District, lost his mother, Mrs. Mattie M. Giles on Sunday, August 24, 2008. Please pray for Rev. and Mrs. Giles as they celebrate the life of their mother.

Funeral Arrangements for Mrs. Mattie M. Giles:
Saturday, August 30, 2008
1:00 p.m.
Union Missionary Baptist Church
506 Bay Bridge Road
Plateau, Alabama 36610

Arrangements entrusted to:
Reese Funeral Home
525 Bessemer Avenue
Pritchard, AL 36610
Phone: (251) 456-2257

Rev. Giles may be reached at (985) 981-0698.

Condolences and expressions of sympathy may be sent to:
Rev. and Mrs. Alexander Giles - c/o Reese Funeral Home (address above)

Evelyn H. Markey
Office Manager
8th Episcopal District - A.M.E. Church
4480 Gen DeGaulle Drive - Suite 210 A
New Orleans, LA 70131
(504) 393-9001 Office/ (504) 393-9157 FAX

22. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

It is with regret that we announce the passing on Sunday, August 24, 2008 of Mr. Fronzell "Doc" Spellmon, the father of the Rev. Dr. Tonya R. Spellmon, Associate Pastor-Bethel AME Church-San Antonio, Texas; Southwest Texas Conference, San Antonio District.

Homegoing Celebration for Mr. Fronzell "Doc" Spellmon:

Friday, August 29, 2008
11:00 A.M.
Bethel AME Church
225 N. Swiss Street
San Antonio, Texas 78202
Phone: (210) 227-2692

The Rev. Dr. W. Raymond Bryant, pastor
The Rev. Dr. Tonya R. Spellmon, eulogist

Interment: Fort Sam Houston National Ceremony - San Antonio, Texas

Mr. Fronzell "Doc" Spellmon's final earthly care has been entrusted to:
Lewis Funeral Home
811 South W. W. White
San Antonio, TX 78220
Phone: (210) 227-7281
Fax: (210) 532-6464

Condolences may be sent to:
The Reverend Dr. Tonya R. Spellmon
8326 Meadow Forest
San Antonio, Texas 78251

210-364-9310 - Cell
210-647-8340 - Home

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

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

Ora L. Easley, Administrator
AMEC Clergy Family Information Center
E-mail: Amespouses1@bellsouth.net
Phone: (615) 837-9736
Voice Mail: (615) 833-6936
Fax: (615) 833-3781
Cell: (615) 403-7751

24. 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.