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
BREAKING NEWS: Paul Quinn loses Accreditation.
1. EDITORIAL – THE REPORTS OF THE COMMISSIONS OF THE AME CHURCH SHOULD BE READ BY ALL:
Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III
The 20th Editor of The Christian Recorder
Editor’s Note: A report of the Investiture of Bishop Carolyn Tyler Guidry will be reported in the next issue of The Christian Recorder Online.
I have decided to share the highlights of the Commission on Publications because all of the Commission Reports are important and should be shared, otherwise what we do at the General Board Meeting will stay within the membership of the General Board. In the spirit of transparency, everyone should to be able to read what went on at the General Board Meeting, a Connectional Meeting of the African Methodist Episcopal Church.
The Editor is inviting all Commissions to immediately send the highlights of their Commission meeting so that it can be published in The Christian Recorder and in that way; those who were unable to attend the General Board Meeting can feel that they are a part of what went on at the General Board Meeting.
Perhaps this will be a “learning moment” for those reading the Commission on Publications report. The Commission on Publications report was prepared by Ms. Latrellis O. Dent.
The General Board Meeting of the African Methodist Episcopal Church met on June 22-24, 2009 at the Sheraton Hotel in New Orleans, Louisiana.
The Commissions of the African Methodist Episcopal Church met in separate sessions on Tuesday, June 23rd and the Commission reports were presented to the full session of the General Board on Wednesday, June 24, 2009.
Bishop William P. DeVeaux is the Chair of the General Board. Bishop Carolyn Tyler Guidry was the Host Bishop and is the President of the Council of Bishops. Bishop Theodore Larry Kirkland is the 1st Vice President of the General Board. Bishop John Richard Bryant is the Senior Bishop of the African Methodist Episcopal Church.
The Commission on Publications
The Right Reverend Richard F. Norris is the Chair of the Commission on Publications.
The General Officers who are members of the Commission on Publications are, Dr. Johnny Barbour, Jr., Secretary-Treasurer, Sunday School Union, Dr. Dennis Dickerson, Historiographer/Director of Research & Scholarship and the Editor of The A.M.E. Church Review; and Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor, III, Editor, The Christian Recorder. The Rev. Henry A. Belin III is the Vice-Chairperson and the Ms. Latrellis O. Dent is the Secretary.
The General Officers and the Departments of the African Methodist Episcopal Church are amenable and accountable to the General Board. Another way of explaining the relationship of the General Officers to the General Board is that the “General Officers relationship to the General Board is as a pastor’s relationship is to the Annual Conference. The General Board is where General Officers give their reports and are on the “hot seat.” As pastors who give a sigh of relief after reading their Annual Conference Reports, General Officers offer sighs of relief after giving their reports and when their reports have been voted on and passed by the members of the General Board.
The General Board is made up of the Executive Committee, the Commission on Statistics and Finance, the Commission on Publications, the Commission on Church Growth and Development, the Commission on Annuity Investments and insurance, the Commission on Christian Education, the Commission on Seminaries, universities, Colleges and Schools, the Commission on Women in Ministry, Commission on Social Action, the Commission on Lay Organization, the Commission on Global Witness and Ministry, the Commission on Economic Development, the Commission on Chaplains, the Commission on Global Development, the Commission on Health, and the Commission on Ministry and Recruitment. Each Commission has members from every Episcopal District.
The meeting was called to order by Bishop Richard F. Norris; Dr. Johnny Barbour led in the devotional and called on the Rev. Marcellus Norris gave the prayer.
Bishop Norris greeted the members of the Publications Commission and acknowledgements the leadership the Commission; Dr. Johnny Barbour, Dr. Dennis C. Dickerson and Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III.
The Reports of all of the General Officers were published in a Combined Report that was available to all members of the General Board. Copies of the Combined General Officers may be ordered from the AMEC Sunday School Union http://amecpublishinghouse.com.
Dr. Johnny Barbour, Jr., Secretary-Treasurer, Sunday School Union
The recommendations of the AMEC Sunday School Union are as follows:
- That all entities of the AME Church be encouraged to order and use the AME literature and supplies from the AMEC Sunday School Union.
- That the usage of the AMEC Trademark/Logo should not be used without permission. (An application for Permission to Use is included in the Annual Report).The shield with the anvil, the cross, and the lettering African Methodist Episcopal is the registered service trademark of the African Methodist Episcopal Church (AMEC). This trademark cannot be used for commercial purposes. Any permission to use this trademark must be approved by the AMEC Sunday School Union. Every usage of the service mark must maintain the accuracy of the symbol in its design, proportion and style. Please refer to application for permission. All applications must be submitted to Dr. Johnny Barbour, Jr., Secretary-Treasurer, Sunday School Union, 500 8th Avenue, South, Suite 200, Nashville, Tennessee 37203.
Recommendation from the floor:
- That all Official Board members and new members, following the completion of new members classes, be encouraged to purchase a current copy of The Book of Discipline of the African Methodist Episcopal Church – 2008.
There was also a request to include the Board of Examiners as another part of the requirement for purchasing a current copy of The Book of Discipline of the African Methodist Episcopal Church – 2008. A suggestion was made by Bishop Norris that this body send a Letter of Recommendation to the Bishops of the church to encourage this requirement.
Dr. Calvin Sydnor, Editor of The Christian Recorder
Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor began his report by acknowledging the presence of Dr. Rickey Spain and Dr. Robert Reid, retired Editors of The Christian Recorder.
Recommendations of The Christian Recorder:
- That the Church work for a cultural shift from the notion of pastors ordering The Christian Recorder and one other periodical on their Annual Conference Reports and that encouragement for everyone to subscribe to all of the periodicals of the AME Church
- That the Episcopal leadership aggressively pushes for more members of the African Methodist Episcopal Church to subscribe to The Christian Recorder and the other AME Church periodicals.
- That the Episcopal leadership aggressively requires every person involved in ministry and all applicants for ministry (itinerant elder, local elder, local deacon, licentiate, exhorter, deaconess) be required to subscribe to The Christian Recorder.
- That the Episcopal leadership aggressively pushes for stewards, trustees and other officers who serve in leadership positions in the local church to subscribe to The Christian Recorder
- That all academic institutions of the African Methodist Episcopal Church subscribe to, and have copies of The Christian Recorder in their libraries and that that local churches subscribe to The Christian Recorder and make copies available to its members who may not have subscribed to The Christian Recorder.
- That the African Methodist Episcopal Church be intentional in eradicating the “digital divide” by encouraging all local churches in the African Methodist Episcopal Church to purchase and have functioning Internet access.
Dr. Dennis Dickerson, Historiographer/Director of Research & Scholarship and the Editor of AME Review
Dr. Dickerson reported that The A.M.E. Church Review is up to date with publication and referred to his report with a correction that the January-March 2009 issue has been published.
The recommendation from Dr. Dickerson:
- That the General Board endorse the project proposal that the Historiographer / Executive Director of the Department of Research and Scholarship has presented for the Bicentennial AME Encyclopedia.
A motion to receive this report with high accommodations was accepted by the body.
Bishop Norris in closing stated that in 2010 we will observe the 250th birthday of Richard Allen and plans have been implemented to recognize our founding father, Bishop Richard Allen.
The AMEC Sunday School Union has a website available which will allow persons to order literature and to subscribe to the AME periodicals.
The Rev. Henry Belin gave a dismissal prayer and the meeting of the Publication Commission was adjourned.
Members:
The Rev. Henry A. Belin (1)*
Mrs. Valerie Gary Bell (2)*
Mr. Bert Ogden (3)*
The Rev. Dr. Barbara A. Wilson (4)*
The Rev. J. Edgar Boyd (5)*
Ms. Latrellis Dent (6)*
The Rev. Joseph Darby (7)*
The Rev. Lester Shaw (8)*
Mr. Shawntavious Redding (9)
The Rev. Roderick Dawson (10)*
Mr. Reginald McGill (11)*
The Rev. James Thomas (12)*
The Rev. Walter W. Reid, Jr. (13)*
Dr. Opral Mason Benson (14)
Mr. Mziwekhaya Nkumbi (15)
Ms. Neila Robinson Ingram (16)
The Rev. Cosmos Wakunguma (17)*
Mr. Americo Mazuze (18)
Ms. T. Bokwa (19)
Mr. Clemence Jele (20)
At Large Members:
The Rev. Silvester Beaman*
The Rev. Harold Mayberry*
* Indicates Member Present
2. READER RESPONSE TO EDITORIAL AND OTHER ISSUES:
- To the Editor:
RE: Article, "Let’s Find a Better Way" by *Dr. Jamye Coleman Williams
I would like to respond to the editorial by Dr. Jamye Coleman Williams entitled, “Let’s Find A Better Way.”
First, I am mindful and respectful of Dr. Williams’ insights as a retired General Officer and as a pioneer in bringing diversity to the leadership of the AME Church. I do not have such longevity in the AME Church or nearly her level of experience and exposure. I married an AME woman 30 years ago and fell in love with the AME Church. I became a member in 1979 and was ordained as an itinerant elder in 1995. I have been a pastor since that time. I am also a licensed attorney and teach college level government and public policy. I have, however, been a voting delegate at the last three General Conferences.
While there is much merit to reviewing the manner in which we select AME Bishops, I am uneasy about the idea of changing the requirements for eligibility to seek and hold the office to include certain accomplishments such as, years of experience as a pastor, or having held certain offices at the connectional level. Such gate-keeping criteria sometimes do a better job of keeping good people out of office than they do of ensuring the selection of the best people called by God to hold an office. The only criteria for eligibility to run for President of the United States (Article II, Section 1., of the U.S. Constitution) is to be 35 years old and a natural born citizen. After that, the people and God decide.
It may be that some improvements could be made to the AME election process. However, I am extremely uncomfortable with changing the eligibility requirements to seek the Office of Bishop.
The Reverend O. Jerome Green
Pastor,
Gaines Chapel AME Church
Anniston, Alabama
- To the Editor:
RE: Article, "Let’s Find a Better Way" by *Dr. Jamye Coleman Williams
Thank you for continuing to challenge our thinking and create "growth producing discomfort with the status quo” by publishing very thought-provoking articles.
I find the reflections of Dr. Jayme Coleman Williams to be worthy of discussion widely in African Methodism. What do we really require of candidates for Episcopal service that directly relates to what we will expect of them as Chief Pastor, should they be elected? Do we require earnest evaluation of the candidate, by the candidate or anyone else?
As I reflect on these questions, I am forced to acknowledge that the disconnect between job expectations and qualifications goes beyond the election of bishops. Many positions of leadership in African Methodism are described principally by its authority rather than qualification for the office. Some 20+ years ago the pastor of my local church challenged the officers to "mold the office rather than simply hold a spot". Since that time, I have felt compelled to make a difference whenever I have prayerfully accepted any role of service/leadership. Ask yourself, if the AME Church closed its doors, what "gaps" would be created; which constituencies would suffer? In other words, who would miss our services?
This great church's legacy hangs in the balance and during our watch, we are charged to leave this world better than we found it. Since we know that the Black Church is the most viable agent of change for the people who live in our communities, worship in our midst, and need an advocate, the AME Church must take seriously its choice of leadership who will take us to new heights.
The next CONVO might be the arena to convene earnest dialogue stimulated by Dr. Coleman Williams challenge to us. Be well!
SIStah "Jackie" Dupont-Walker
- To the Editor:
As a child I grew up United Methodist, but as an adult I've come to appreciate African Methodism. I am both inspired and encouraged by the thoughts expressed by both Dr. Jamye Coleman Williams and Dr. Clement Fugh.
Daphney Gwynn
3. SAVING OUR EDUCATIONAL EMPHASIS:
Bishop E. Earl McCloud, Jr.
The Higher Education Institutions associated with the African Methodist Episcopal Church are struggling beneath overbearing financial obligations. Some have lost their academic accreditation and this week we have learned that Paul Quinn College has lost its accreditation. The concerns are many, including little or no endowment funds which are essential to the future of Colleges and Universities. Others are marred under debt obligations that put their future in doubt. Still others are on the brink of falling into receivership.
It is important to point out that philanthropic giving in this country has decreased considerably for a number of reasons. The Bernie Madoffs and Allen Stanfords of the world have misused and misappropriated funds that have been entrusted to their care. Persons within our own institution have not always made the best decisions for our academic institutions.
It is time now for the people of the AME Church to say aloud that moving to consolidate the educational enterprises of the AME Church is not negative, but necessary. Consider a regional approach.
There are some reasonable but difficult choices that should be considered by the Board of Trustees/Directors of the Institutions currently operating under the banner of the AME Church.
• First, because the AME Church underfunds the enterprises, consolidation of funds to support a single institution or something else should be considered.
• Second, some other format of education empowerment should be considered by the Church. For example, many of the Churches within the denomination are serving students effectively in schools that are below the college level.
• Third, strong consideration should be given to hiring a fund development officer who would work to significantly develop the giving programs of the AME Church and its partners.
• Finally, a consolidated effort has a better chance of success than the models that are currently being used. Find the best campus and pour all our support into that campus. Develop another campus into a headquarters for the AME Church and develop a retirement community on that campus. Use the Richard Allen school model developed in Dayton, Ohio on other campuses in an effort to re-make ourselves and demonstrate our re-aligned educational interest.
• Consider Trade Schools and/or other vocational training schools
• The Commission Chair should call College/University Presidents together for the purpose of making appropriate proposals to the AME Church soon.
• The time is now. Everyday matters.
4. “MOSES AND JOSHUA”: DISCUSSING YOUNG ADULTS IN THE AME CHURCH:
John Thomas III
Over the past few months, I have been privileged to write on a wide-range of topics pertinent to the growth and livelihood of African Methodism. A series of conversations over the past few weeks laid upon my heart the desire to write a something on the position of “Young Adults” in our Zion. I begin with a recent story from the election campaign for offices in the Connectional Lay Organization (CLO). At a forum sponsored by an Episcopal District, one of the candidates was asked the following: “How will you incorporate a youthful perspective into the work of your office?” After a brief pause, the candidate coolly replied: “I believe that young people should pay their dues and not expect to jump ahead.”
This reply, while disconcerting, is by no means surprising. The AME Church maintains ambivalent relationship with Young Adults. On the one hand, we know that the 18-40 group is essential not only to our future but also the present. The absence of their presence in our pews and pulpits is a concern for many Bishops and senior lay leaders. More than a few seasoned members, however, chafe when younger persons attempt to assert authority as laity or clergy. Several younger ministers have told me that they avoid telling congregations their ages for fear that people will stop seeing them as “the pastor” and instead see them as “son” or “granddaughter”. I also have seen instances where pastors, in order to appease older members of a church, will appoint a college-educated professional as a “Junior” Steward or Trustee. This act not only contravenes the purpose of the position—which was to mentor youth UNDER age 18—but quite frankly is insulting to a tithing and dutiful member who may run a multi-million dollar business but will not be allowed a position of true responsibility because they have not “paid their dues”. The AME Church needs Young Adults, but does not what to do with them.
As much as we would like to think that the “Young Adult” problem is a creature of the “Hip-Hop” or “Millennium” generations, history tells us otherwise. The following quote from Diane Griffin written in 1971 for Bishop Gomez’s Polity of the AME Church is telling: “In the Church there are no ‘second class’ members, but sometimes the youth of the Church are given this impression…Young people must be given more than token responsibilities…It is incumbent upon us all to realize that this generation has been exposed to more than any other generation past.” Even though these words are almost forty years old, Griffin could easily be describing the situation of Young Adults today. The “Youth Revolution” achieved much in terms of representation for Young Adults in the various levels of the Connection. After a tense exchange between Young Adult delegates and the CLO Budget committee over program funding, one leader of the “Youth Revolution” commented: “It seems that they are still fighting the same battles that we were over thirty years ago.”
So, what do we do about the “Young Adult” problem? Churches (especially Black mainline denominations) have a tendency to be traditionalist. Even the spread of Neo-Pentecostalism in our churches was not enough to stem the non-denominational tide. The AME Church must realize, first, that it will take more than token positions on Boards, Committees and Auxiliaries to staunch the Young Adult hemorrhage. Additionally, the problem is bigger than any one Connectional organization (such as RAYAC) can handle. Real engagement is needed with “Young Adults” at the highest levels of the Church in order to develop a Connectional strategy for maintaining and attracting Young Adults. As a Connection, the AME Church must ask itself: “What happens after the YPD?” We do an impeccable job of training people to “grow, glow, and go for Christ”…in someone else’s church. The Council of Bishops can exercise leadership by developing an action plan including Episcopal District dialogues as well as a Connectional Young Adult Summit before the end of the 2008-2012 quadrennium. Lessons can be learned especially from Districts 14-20 where the “Young Adult” problem in many cases is finding enough seats for a service.
The WMS and the Lay Organization have taken important steps to working on Young Adult inclusion by creating specialized offices for Young Adults. These positions, however, should be seen as “necessary evils” and not permanent solutions. It is only through true intergenerational leadership that these organizations will reach their potential. While the “dues paying” metaphor might resonate with older members, we tend to forget that our noble founder Richard Allen was only 27 when he walked out of Old St. George’s. It is my fervent hope that more offices in the Connectional auxiliaries at all levels will go to younger members. I also respectfully offer that our conceptualization of the “Young Adult” category itself is misleading. The needs of a 22 year-old single recent college graduate will be different from a 36 year-old married lawyer and mother of two. A more nuanced approach will be needed to address what is a vast and amorphous group.
I remain hopeful that the Connectional AME Church will retool itself and seriously engage itself in addressing our “generation gap”. The discussion in the AME Church between the “Moses” and “Joshua” generations mirrors the discussion in the African-American community at large between the “Jackson” and “Obama” generations. In closing, I remind us that the relationship between Moses and Joshua was not characterized by conflict, but by mutual respect and trust. As twilight dimmed on the leadership of Moses, he took Joshua in front of the people of Israel to not only encourage him but to publically affirm his faith in his successor (Deuteronomy 31). Instead of admonishing Young Adults who wish to exercise leadership and responsibility “before their time”, the “Moses generation” would do well to remember the example of its namesake and offer encouragement, mentorship and guidance to the “Joshuas” waiting in the wings.
John Thomas III is a Ph.D. Student, Department of Political Science, University of Chicago
jthomas3@uchicago.edu
5. A SENSE OF PAST AND FUTURE: GETTING OUT OF OUR VACUUMS:
The Reverend Dr. Monica C. Jones
Ecclesiastes 3:1 states that there is a time and a season for everything we do under the heavens; moreover, in the 11th verse, the wisdom book tells us that God has put a sense of past and future in our minds.
When examining this text more closely, I see confirmation for the advice I heard a senior lay leader in my church offer during a new member presentation. The speaker cautioned the listeners that in order for them to really appreciate the AME Church, they would need to get out into the church community and become “visible” at the various conference levels.
I could not agree more. Too many times, we become comfortable in our own cocoons where life if predictable and peaceful, ignoring the lives of our brothers and sisters who have taken different paths. Can we not interact with each other more expansively? Cannot more women actively support the activities of men who are part of Sons of Allen? Cannot the Sons attend Women’s Missionary Society services as a body? When a district or conference lay meeting is held, are the pastors from the churches in attendance? Do preachers and lay go to meetings outside their own annual conferences? Do young members of a congregation make plans to go to Founders Day services and workshops and not just YPD events? Do officers plan to go to YPD and youth meetings? Is Christian Education (CE) ministry supported and encouraged in the congregation, and do non-educators attend CE seminars and conferences?
Obviously, everyone cannot go to every activity. Nevertheless, an intentional effort to plan for participation in at least one meeting that is occurring outside the local church or a local area of interest will pay off. If it is not possible to go to long distance meetings, start within the church. Each lay organization can share with other groups and send members in an exchange fashion to the other’s activity.
For example, a male usher board member can be invited to participate at a female chorus anniversary and vice versa. Ten-year olds can participate at a retired officer’s banquet. There is no end to what a body of believers can do if everyone is of one mind and one purpose!
As we have a sense of our past and look to the future, we cannot be prepared if we do not experience life and ministry outside of our own doors. It will take an organized effort. Going away to meetings requires money, and money is tight. Yet, to not go is to miss an opportunity to learn about the way our church does things.
The First Steps
Once a church or church member has decided that networking and conference attendance is an important priority, plans can be made just as with anything else. A good first step would be to look at the local, connectional and Episcopal calendars in advance. Select a meeting to attend, and plan ahead to set aside funds. Officers and organizational leaders can decide to make this kind of effort a part of their yearly budget. Young people can include an activity outside their normal schedule and fund raise for it. Tithing churches may find that a one time sacrificial tithe from each ministry may afford someone an opportunity to travel.
Next, find people who are interested in participating. A senior who has never traveled may find it a blessing to go to a lay meeting. A gifted teenager may want to attend a Christian Education or Writer’s Guild workshop. Try to send intergenerational representatives if possible in order to capitalize on the unique opportunity for growth that collaboration between wisdom and youth brings.
By attending the General Board Meeting / Bishops’ Council to witness the meetings and worship services in New Orleans, I am enhancing my knowledge base as an Episcopal officer in Women in Ministry and as an AME member. I had no official reason to attend, but I did have an ethical one. The intentional and unintentional lessons I will take home with me from the experience will be invaluable. It is a sacrifice, but as most godly Black folks tend to do, I pray for God to make a way and then watch God come through.
A Final Thought
Staying in our personal vacuums and not sharing who we are and what we do with others, does not allow God to work through us in order to improve our family of faith. For everything there is a season. Perhaps now is our season to grow. Now is our season to discover new things while God does new things in us. We can learn from the past while impacting the future if we but step out of our comfort zones and tread upon new paths.
Dr. Jones is worship leader for WIM / 6th Episcopal District and is on the ministerial staff at Big Bethel in Atlanta
6. U.S. HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVE BARBARA LEE STATEMENT ON VOTING RIGHTS RULING MONDAY, JUNE 22, 2009:
Washington D.C. – Rep. Barbara Lee (D-CA), Chairwoman of the Congressional Black Caucus released the following statement today after the U.S. Supreme Court upheld a central provision of Voting Rights Act:
“By an overwhelming 8 to 1 majority the Supreme Court has rejected an attempt to turn the clock back on civil rights and acknowledged Congress’s authority to protect the right to vote.
“With the exception of Justice Clarence Thomas, the Justices of the Supreme Court understand the importance of the Voting Rights Act and the progress this country has made since 1964.
“As a result of today’s ruling, the VRA and its ‘preclearance’ provision remain effective tools in this nation’s ongoing struggle to guarantee an equal vote to all, regardless of race.”
Editor's Note: Clarence Thomas again
7. EVENING OF PRAYER FOR HIV/AIDS AWARENESS:
*The Rev. Teresa Lynn Rushdan
March 5, 2009 seemed like a typical Friday evening about the city of Trenton, the weather was fair, and the streets were yet damp from an earlier mist of rain. Cars moved swiftly through the streets. It was a typical day, but something big was happening.
Something life shaping and life transforming was happening and it was happening at The Greater Mt. Zion AME Church of Trenton, New Jersey. The event was an evening of prayer for those who have been stricken and or affected by HIV/AIDS.
On a street that is enriched by a thriving Christian Ministry and yet devastated by drugs, violence and disease, the New Jersey Human Development Corporation confronted statistics, polls, and negative stereotypes by placing the issue of HIV/AIDS in the face of the public in order to dispel the travesties, stigmas, and dogma that encircle those that are sick, families that are torn and communities that are impacted by a virus that has is often ignored and at times forgotten.
For the moment HIV/AIDS is here, but so is God. The church filled on that Friday evening was filled with those from every background, filled with those who unashamedly called on God, and it was clear that everyone was the same.
Everyone could connect because HIV/AIDS does not discriminate; it finds its way into the lives of people from every socio-economic, racial, ethnic, religious background. Everyone could connect because HIV/AIDS effects and affects the rich, the lost, the least, the lost, the forgotten and the privileged.
So while the rain drizzled, many courageously shared their stories, stories of success, and stories of triumph in the midst of personal struggle. Others such as Rev. Myrtle Daniels elaborated as to the responsibility of the community and church to do its part and to never neglect a friend, sister or brother in need for we are “all God’s children”.
A beautiful liturgical dance was done by Ms. Diana Rogers (member of Mt. Zion A.M.E. Church, Trenton) to the strains of Say a Prayer by Donald Lawrence. With every graceful move the church was inspired to simply pray. Her spirit, said pray, the music said pray and pray is what they did.
Attending were the New Jersey Human Development Corporation’s Rev. J. Stanley Justice, CEO (he also is the pastor of Greater Mt. Zion A.M.E. Church, Trenton) Rev. Vernard Leak, CFO (also Presiding Elder of the A.M.E Philadelphia District), Mrs. Wimphrey Jenkins, Chairperson of the NJHDC Board of Directors, Rev. John R. Taylor Pastor, pastor of Friendship Baptist Church, Trenton Ms. Joy Brooks, Roslyn Council who is a member of the Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, committed to public service in the Mercer County Area, and many more.
On a typical Friday, God moved tremendously and blessed His children with hope for a stronger tomorrow.
*The Rev. Teresa Lynn Rushdan is the N.J. Conference Reporter and Press Coordinator, New Jersey Human Development Corporation
8. BE READY TO WALK AWAY----COPING WITH REJECTION AND ABUSE:
*The Rev. N.T. Pitts
It is without a doubt that each, and all, of us want to be accepted and wanted by somebody. People do all manner of things so that they may be accepted and wanted. Children do some wild and odd things. Some even fail in school on purpose so that they may be accepted and belong.
Rejection is a terrible thing and it sometimes leads to violence and murder.
There is an old adage I have often heard, and that is, “There is somebody for everybody. But some find it difficult to find that someone who wants us. And when we find that someone that we think we want, they may not want us. And that is where the trouble begins. Another expression I have heard is, “There are other fish in the sea.” But, I am afraid that some of us may use the wrong bait to catch the fish we desire.
Too many marriages are destroyed and too many lives are affected and even lost because they have become victims of rejection. The sad thing about it all is, innocent children become victims caught in the web of rejection; and some are brutally murdered.
Many women are caught in an abusive relationship and don’t quite know how to get out of it. I can’t understand how anyone could abuse the one they claim to love.
This article is entitled Walk away, but I am sure that there are those who would say “Easier said than done.”
There is no doubt; the record will show that men take rejection the hardest. It is because their masculinity is challenged and their ego is deflated. Men commit violent acts more often than women when it comes to rejection. However, women are more likely to commit suicide, or at least, attempt suicide in order to gain attention and sympathy.
Some years ago when I was in my teens, I heard an elderly gentleman say, “Don’t ever marry anybody you love, marry somebody who loves you.” I spent years trying to analyze that statement. I still don’t know the logic of what he said. But now I have a strong idea what he was trying to infer.
What I don’t understand is why do people try to force themselves upon those who do not want them? What is it that makes a person say, “If I can’t have you, nobody else will”? That statement is made mostly by men, with an ego problem; and sometimes woman make the statement too. I don’t mean to be repetitive but I can’t help but feel a deep sense of sympathy for the children caught in this selfish trap.
What is it that prevents them from “walking away”?
The worse mistake some women make when their marriage seems to be crumbling and they want to leave; is they threaten to leave just to get some kind of positive response from their spouse. They even threaten to take the children, which is a dangerous thing to say. If you want out, don’t talk about what you are going to do, do it. In the world of boxing, the advice given to boxers is, “Don’t telegraph your punches.” In other words, don’t let your opponent know when you are going to throw a punch, and where.
When you threaten to leave it hardly ever brings any positive responses. When you arrive at the conclusion that your relationship is finished and you decide to leave; if you are going to leave, leave. Just walk away.
Why do women stay in an abusive relationship? I really don’t know.
Some claim they stay because of the children. But that does not hold water. Children know when something is not going right. You can’t fool children. You cannot make anyone love you. And you should not beg someone to love you, if you do, you diminish your humanity.
If, and when you make up your mind that it is time to leave, don’t talk about it; just walk away quietly, but make sure that you are financially and emotionally ready.
Some years ago I was counseling a young woman who was having a terrible time with her husband. While we were talking she opened her big purse, dug deep into a hidden pocket and took out a roll of bills. She then asked me, “Pastor, do you know what this is?” I told her that it looked like a roll of money. She responded, “That’s my ‘Go-to-Hell money’ and when I get enough of that man’s mess I am going to tell him to “Go to Hell, and I am going to leave.”
I relate this little experience to emphasize the importance of readiness to walk away. You may not have any “go-to-Hell” money but you better have something. I must remind you that not all marriages are made in heaven.
Some years ago during the early fifties a man and his wife and son were at a train depot and had no place to stay. Their luggage was two old suitcases tied up with rope and they were eating cheese and vanilla wafers out of a paper bag. The young boy sat on one of the suitcases crying because they had no place to stay. The Pullman Porter said to the boy, “Son don’t worry we will find you a home.” The boy replied, “We got a home, we need a place to live.”
When I think about that incident, there is no doubt that we have some find beautiful houses living behind high walls and security fences, but far too many broken and dysfunctional homes. We have luxury, but no love. We have our diamonds, but no discipline.
We have security devices, but we are not safe. We have the latest fashion, but no faith. We have parties, but we have no purposes.
When is it enough?
There is a secular song entitled “It only hurts for a little while.” Walking away may hurt for a little while but you can make it for the sake of your children and yourself.
I say to those abusive spouses, “Pick on somebody your size.”
*The Rev. N.T. Pitts is a retired pastor who lives in Eatonville, Florida
9. CLERGY FAMILY CONGRATULATORY MESSAGE:
Congratulations to Reverend Marcus A. Cylar, pastor of Tanner-Price Memorial AME Church, in Windsor, Ontario for receiving his Master of Divinity Degree from Ashland Theological Seminary. Pastor Marcus A. Cylar is the son-in-law of the Rev. Deborah Smith-Satterwhite, pastor of New St. John AME Church-Dearborn, Michigan; the son of Mr., Ken Cylar and the late Sadie Cylar; and the husband of Evangelist Chariece J. Cylar. Pastor Marcus is scheduled to be ordained an Itinerant Elder in August 2009 at the Annual Conference.
“Pastor Marcus we are so proud of you. Stay humble and bold about your walk with our Savior Jesus Christ and continue to be God's Mentor for our Young People and Young Men.”
Submitted by:
The Rev. Deborah Smith-Satterwhite, pastor
New St. John AME Church-Dearborn, Michigan
Congratulatory email can be sent to: charieces@yahoo.com
10. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
We share with regret news of the passing of Robert R. Shaw, Sr., father of the Reverend Robert R. Shaw, II, pastor of St. John AME Church, St. Louis, Missouri and father-in-law of the Reverend Ann Clara Champion Shaw, daughter of the late Dr. George Champion, retired General Officer.
The funeral has been held.
Expressions of sympathy may be sent to:
The Rev. Robert and the Rev. Ann Shaw in care of Watkins Brothers Memorial Chapel
Or to:
The Rev. Robert and the Rev. Ann Shaw
St. John AME Church
1908 N. Kings Highway
St. Louis, MO 63113
Phone: 314-361-8236
Or condolences may be emailed to The Rev. Robert R. Shaw II: pastor_rob3@yahoo.com
11. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
We regret to share news of the passing of the Reverend Edward L. Butler, pastor of Quinn Memorial A.M.E. Church, Steubenville, Ohio.
Service Arrangements for the Reverend Edward Butler:
The funeral has been held.
Expressions of sympathy and condolences may be sent his wife:
Mrs. Merylyn Butler
302 Todd Street
Aliquippa, PA 15001
Phone: 724-378-0778
Email: Auntmns@yahoo.com
12. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
We regret to share news of the passing of Mrs. Gloria Wright, the mother of the Reverend Lance Shelton, pastor of Friendship AME Church in Pulaski, Tennessee.
Mrs. Gloria Wright passed on Tuesday, June 23, 2009.
The funeral has been held.
Condolences may be sent to:
The Reverend Lance Shelton, Pastor
Friendship AME Church
348 Friendship Road / P. O. Box 294
Pulaski, TN 38478
Phone: 931-424-5454
Cell Phone: 931-247-0741
Or expressions of sympathy may be emailed to:
The Reverend Lance Shelton: lanceshelton@charter.net
13. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
It is with sadness that we announce the death of Mrs. Mattie Hunter, the mother of the Reverend Sarah E. Spaulding, local elder at the Historic Saint Paul AME Church in Lexington, Kentucky where the Reverend Troy I. Thomas is the Pastor. Mrs. Mattie J. Hunter, age 98, passed on Monday, June 22, 2009.
At her passing Mrs. Hunter was the oldest member of Saint Paul AME Church in Versailles, Kentucky, where the Reverend James E. "Book" Smith is the Pastor.
The funeral has been held.
Expressions of sympathy and condolences may be emailed to:
Meme221450@wmconnect.com (The Reverend Sarah E. Spaulding)
14. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
We share with regret news of the passing of the Reverend William Earl Ewing, pastor of Avery Chapel AME Church in Brookhaven, Mississippi; Brookhaven-Hattiesburg District, South Mississippi Annual Conference; Rev. Joseph E. Young, Presiding Elder, Bishop Carolyn Tyler Guidry, Presiding Prelate, 8th Episcopal District.
Service arrangements for the Reverend William Earl Ewing:
Funeral:
Tuesday, June 30, 2009
12:00 Noon
Greater Powell Chapel AME Church
865 Springhill Road
Grenada, MS 38901
Phone: 662-226-3368
Rev. Moses Simms, Pastor
Bishop Carolyn Tyler Guidry, Eulogist
Professional services are entrusted to:
Clark-Williams Funeral Home
602 Cherry Street
Grenada, MS 38901
Phone: (662) 226-3451
Fax: (662) 226-3404
Condolences and expressions of sympathy may be sent to his wife and family:
The Rev. Chenelle Ewing and Family
125 ML King Jr. Avenue
Brookhaven, MS 39601
Phone: 601-835-1929
Cell: 601-754-7859
Expressions of sympathy may be emailed to:
audreanaewing@yahoo.com
15. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
We regret to announce the passing of the Reverend Phillip Mixon, a retired pastor in the Manning District, Central South Carolina Annual Conference of the 7TH Episcopal District. Rev. Mixon entered into eternal rest on Thursday, June 18, 2009.
The funeral has been held.
The family of Rev. Phillip Mixon
C/o St. John AME Church
520 S. Main Street
Bishopville, SC 29010
16. 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
AMEC Clergy Family Information Center
Email: Amespouses1@bellsouth.net
Phone: (615) 837-9736
Voice Mail: (615) 833-6936
Fax: (615) 833-3781
Cell: (615) 403-7751
17. 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.
Archive of The Christian Recorder Online from 2004-2016; Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III, 20th Editor of The Christian Recorder
6/19/2009
THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER ONLINE ENGLISH EDITION (6/19/09)
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
1. EDITORIAL – RESPONSES TO THE EDITORIAL “SOMETIMES WE ARE OUR WORST ENEMY, “EAGLE RAISED BY CHICKENS” MENTALITY”:
Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III
The 20th Editor of The Christian Recorder
This week’s editorial is different. I had so many informative responses to last week’s editorial, “Sometimes we are our worst enemy, “Eagle raised by chickens” that I thought it important to share some of the responses with our readers. I have purposely refrained from identifying the respondents because I want our readers to focus upon the responses rather than who wrote what. I hope that you find their comments as informative and helpful as I found them to be.
From the Editorial: Organizations are healthier and more effective when everyone in the organization “plays by the same rules.”
Comment: I agree, but you know that will never be the case for us, too many chiefs and not enough Indians who are strong enough to face the chiefs.
From the Editorial: So many of us are in a minimalist frame of thinking and we seek to meet the bare minimum requirements because we have an “eagle raised by chickens’ mentality.” We don’t think that we can soar to the high reaches of the sky; so with the eagle raised by chickens’ mentality,” we are satisfied scratching in the dirt and thinking that “everyone else’s ice is colder than our ice.” The minimalist mindset does not allow us to believe that “the sky is the limit,” so we do what we have to do “to get by, no more, no less.” The truth of the matter is that the pastor, clergy, and all officers in the local church should possess The Book of Discipline of the African Methodist Episcopal Church 2008.
Comment: Many of The Disciplines will not be sold until the Annual Conferences, which won't begin until late summer. Although the appeal to order online makes sense; it's not the "way we do things."
Comment: I was happy to learn today that there is someone in charge of taking orders for The 2008 Discipline for our church members. I ordered a copy, and so did one other family member.
From the Editorial: Subscribing to the AME periodicals, most pastors subscribe to The Christian Recorder and to one other periodical and call it a day; and probably rarely invite others in the congregation to subscribe to the various periodicals of the AME Church.
Comment: Some churches will make an announcement just before the Annual Conference, when the Annual Report Forms have to be filled out, saying to see “Sister So and So” if you want to subscribe to any of the AME periodicals. Vague; sounds unimportant. “Sister So and So” will take the names and money, but does not put forth any extra effort to get members to subscribe to the periodicals.
Comment: I know of one church that places a form in the bulletin that lists all of the AME periodicals with prices to make it easy for members to subscribe. I always thought that was a real plus for the members. However, there's one more step that would make it even more helpful and meaningful. How will the members looking at that form know what kind of information the periodicals cover? What's the difference in all these AME periodicals? Should I subscribe to this one or that one? What good will they do me?
Comment: I think it would be helpful if there could be a brief synopsis of each AME periodical and the focus of each periodical. It might be good to publish that information in The Christian Recorder. That might create interest and result in more subscriptions. It might encourage us to "soar to the high reaches of the sky" or, maybe a form could be developed and given to each pastor to utilize it with his or her congregation.
From the Editorial: We have churches that will use any materials except the AME Church School quarterlies. I have even heard of one member of the clergy who encouraged people to use other materials or to develop their own church school materials.
Comment: The problem has been corrected now, but years ago, we had to stop using AME Church School materials because they were consistently late and we'd have to cover a couple of Sundays without having the materials. There is no reason that I know of that we shouldn't support the people who have prepared those materials for our youngsters and those whose job it is to distribute them.
From the Editorial: “…if those teaching will develop lesson plans and do some outside research. If teachers use the Church School lessons “winging it and without prior study, it is hard.”
Comment: A teacher must be a good teacher; our children deserve that!
From the Editorial: I would suspect that if pastors took a box of The Disciplines to their local churches, they could sell them in a matter of minutes.
Comment: I agree! Absolutely! Immediate gratification! Tell me they're here. “See ‘Sister So and So’ right over there at the close of service. Buy your Discipline immediately.” No ordering; no waiting “Sister So and So” would have quite a crowd and would be proud to do her job. Why haven’t pastors taken the initiative and done that? Sell The Disciplines and get the task completed. Presiding elders should instruct their pastors to load up a box and take The Disciplines to their churches and sell them and use them in meetings and refer to The Discipline. If the pastors respect their Presiding Elders’ efforts to make things run better, or if they are “afraid” enough of their presiding elders; this would work, wouldn't it?
Comment: In our church, the officers are all new and I am sure that none of them have The Book of Discipline of the African Methodist Episcopal Church – 2008; and probably have not read The 2004 Discipline.
Comment: Speaking of The Discipline, One of our main Stewards goes to Annual Conference for Lay Night, but that's the only session he attends. I doubt that he's been to a regular business session of the annual conference, ever!
From the Editorial: "I am amazed at how casual we are about The Book of Discipline. As a journalist and as the Editor of The Christian Recorder, I have to be in a listening mode and from what I am hearing, it seems that the expectation for purchasing The Discipline is the same casual attitude that we have for subscribing to the periodicals of the A.M.E. Church. The expectation for The Discipline seems to be that every pastor will purchase The Book of Discipline, and there seems to be no “fire in the hole” for the officers and members of the local church to purchase The Book of Discipline."
Comment: Why can't the Bishops mandate that every annual conference delegate possess their own copy of The Discipline.
Comment: The Presiding Elders play, or should play, a major role a major role in the procedure of disseminating The Discipline. Stewards are confirmed at the Quarterly Conference and no steward should be confirmed if they do not possess their own copy of The Discipline.
Comment: The local pastor should be responsible to insure that the local church make copies of The Disciplines available and to insure that the officers of the local church can be trained in the use of The Discipline. This should be a part of the local church budget because The Discipline is the book of law and, ideally it should be available and provided to any member who wished to purchase one.
Comment: If pastors, officers and member don’t follow The Discipline, churches are not able to act according to the will of the General Conference.
Comment: Thank you for your observation in the sale of our Discipline and Church School Materials. I would love to be able to download The Discipline as an eBook or pdf (of course with the proper measures in place).
Comment: Just a comment on the Sunday School Materials. I notice that our materials are good, but they are not competitive as they could be. I have also observed that the majority of the youth that attend Church School range between juniors and intermediates. The intermediate books are wordy with little, to no activities. The senior books however are less wordy and heavy on activities. The junior book seems to have an equal balance of both. I am not sure of what message we are trying to convey here with each group, but, I go out of my way to make the lessons interesting, because I want our students to come back, not because they are made to, but because they want to; It is always my hope that they will continue to come back and see what good things God has done and is still doing for His people.
Editor’s Comment: I wish to thank all of those who shared their informative comments. We can all learn something when we listen.
2. READER RESPONSE TO EDITORIAL AND OTHER ISSUES:
To the Editor:
RE: “Sometimes we are our worst enemy, “Eagle raised by chickens” mentality”
I was very impressed and yet disturbed about your article on the purchase (lack of) of The Book of Discipline of the African Methodist Episcopal Church 2008. I am making an announcement at our church, The Historic Ebenezer AME Church in Detroit about our Lay Organization purchasing The Disciplines for sale. I sadly remember in 2004 when I was a delegate to the General Conference -- it took me almost three weeks to get The Discipline from my local church (starting with the Lay Organization, Minister, Presiding Elder, etc.) I guess everyone was waiting for something to happen. I finally was able to get one from the AMEC Sunday School Union in Nashville.
Our founder, Bishop Richard Allen says the three books that every AME should own - the Bible, an AME Hymnal and The AME Discipline. Thank you for reminding us of how important this is.
Tina Stephens
3. LET’S FIND A BETTER WAY:
*Dr. Jamye Coleman Williams
Forty-nine years ago at the General Conference of 1960 in Los Angeles, I was directly involved in the campaign for bishop of my late brother, Fred “Buster” Coleman, who was the standard bearer for the 13th Episcopal District. He was not only a dedicated minister but also a medical doctor whose ambition was to serve as a missionary bishop in Africa. His slogan was “Have Kit and Bible—Will Travel.” Because he was only 39 he included in his campaign literature the statement: “Not too old to be a physical liability. Not too young to lack proper experience.” The practice of his career as a medical doctor had made it possible for him to launch one of the first elaborate campaigns—nothing, however, like the ones that have continued to evolve.
The Sunday after the close of the 48th Session of our recent General Conference, I had a long-time, loyal laywoman to confront me about the way candidates, for the bishopric, are obliged to campaign. She was dismayed about it because of her experience with pastors of her own church who had been successful candidates. She suggested that I as a vocal AME should address this issue. As I reflected about this General Conference I did admit that in my judgment it had been, in general, one of our most uplifting ones—as it related especially to the decorum of the delegates: There was no stopping the work of the General Conference with a sustained chorus of “No! No! No! We won’t have it!” No singing “I’m on the Battlefield” and “Amen” until the delegates got their way as they did at the 1948 General Conference! No embarrassing march around the auditorium with signs deposited in trash cans as happened in 1956! No effort to shout down the effort to substitute voting machines as it occurred in 1960! No firestorm over a resolution to move all the bishops, which happened in 1964 and in 1984! No “boos” from some delegates to deny me the opportunity to defend the resolution to elect a woman to the bishopric which was introduced in 2000! None of that! And for that I am grateful.
I am, on the other hand, saddened over the way we misuse the servants of God who aspire to the highest office of the Church. I know personally how the candidates feel who are not able to realize their dreams at that time. I am sad for the families, friends, church members, supporters, and campaign managers who also feel the pain of disappointment. But, most of all, I grieve for the children, the young people who were involved in the campaigns of their fathers and their pastors—who always appear to be so devastated over the loss.
Shame on us for not finding a better way to elect bishops in our 193-year old organized church! No other church expects the candidates to use so much physical energy and to spend so much of their own financial resources and those of their supporters to achieve the high office of the bishopric. It does not start at the General Conference. It begins when he or she announces his/her candidacy. Local churches celebrating anniversaries, hosting annual conferences; organizations, such as my own Connectional Lay Organization, conducting forums that require a generous donation; Episcopal district meetings looking for contributions; some delegates expecting special favors. And the list goes on.
There has to be a better way. In addition to the qualifications necessary for ordination as an elder—college graduate, degree from a seminary accredited by the Association of Theological Schools or a similar accrediting agency, there need to be other considerations. What about years of measurable, successful pastoral service: Churches built? Debts retired? Memberships increased through conversions to Christ and accessions? Service to the Church on the Connectional level? Contributions to communities, thereby enhancing the image of African Methodism? Aspiring to the bishopric should be approached seriously, prayerfully, and with a genuine desire to serve God and the Church in a larger way. It is not an office that should be sought to satisfy personal ambition for recognition, prestige, and economic security.
Shame on us for knowing that some of our brothers and sisters may not at the moment have a chance of being elected, but we exploit them anyway. Shame on us for misleading our brothers and sisters with broken promises. Shame on us for knowingly encouraging persons who we know do not have a chance at the time. Shame on us for our behavior at the General Conference which is so often more like the secular world than like the Church of Jesus Christ.
May God touch our hearts and help us find a better way to elevate our brothers and sisters before we celebrate the 200th Anniversary of our great Church.
*Dr. Jamye Coleman Williams is a retired General Officer and was the first elected female General Officer in the AME Church. She is a member of Big Bethel AME Church in Atlanta
4. AN UPDATE FROM THE 18TH EPISCOPAL DISTRICT:
The Right Rev. E. Earl McCloud
Presiding Prelate of the 18th Episcopal District
In February 2009, the 18th Episcopal District had the privilege of serving as host for the Global Development Council (GDC) meeting in Swaziland. This was followed by the District Mid-Year meeting, held in March 2009 in the newly renovated F. C. James Center in Maseru. At this juncture, we are mere weeks away from opening T’sepong Cecelia Williams Bryant Home. God is good!
On a personal note - in April 2009, the doctors at the Mayo Clinic Hospital in Scottsdale, Arizona, diagnosed me with pulmonary emboli (multiple blood clots in both lungs). The condition is treatable with oral anticoagulants therapy. Recovery is taking place presently at our home in Atlanta. Thank you in advance for your prayers for healing. Your continued prayers and support of the work of the 18th Episcopal District are greatly needed and appreciated.
We continue to be enthused about this new opportunity and the challenges the work brings. We will begin building the “Administration Building at the Selulasandla Vashti AME Village” (an orphanage) in Swaziland within the next two months. We received during the 18th District Mid-Year Meeting additional funds to support our educational enterprises. Thankfully, we received from the Rev. Dr. Cecilia Williams Bryant funds for furniture to open “T’sepong Cecelia Williams Bryant Orphanage”.
As previously stated, the 18th Episcopal District has the following programs and projects in place that require our immediate and continual financial support:
• M. Joan Cousin Children’s Aid Center in Botswana ($1,500.00) monthly;
• Selulasandla Vashti A.M.E. Village (Three (3) HIV/AIDS homes for Children) in Mbane, Swaziland ($2,500.00) monthly;
• 42 primary schools spread throughout the Episcopal District;
• T’sepong Cecelia Williams Bryant Home ($1,000.00) monthly;
• F. C. James Center of AME Services in Maseru, Lesotho ($2,500.00) monthly.
We invite you to become a part of the work of the 18th Episcopal District by becoming a “Covenant Partner.” Please review the attached flyer to see how you can help. Be reasonable in your gifts and try to spread them over the next thirty-seven (37) months.
Additionally, we invite you to plan a trip to Southern Africa during the next four years and include the 18th Episcopal District in your trip. We are encouraged and hope that you will be excited about our work and that you would be willing to make a contribution. Please add us to your prayer list and keep us and the work lifted up to the Lord.
E. Earl McCloud, Jr.
Resident Bishop
18th Episcopal District AMEC
Botswana, Mozambique, Lesotho & Swaziland
Overseas telephone number: 011-266-5912-8383
5. THE “LIVELY” LAKELAND DISTRICT OF THE WEST COAST CONFERENCE OF THE 11TH EPISCOPAL DISTRICT CHURCH SCHOOL AND CHRISTIAN EDUCATION CONVENTION:
The Rev. Shirley A. Williams, District Secretary
Presiding Elder F. Bernard Lemon of the “Lively” Lakeland District, West Coast Conference of the Eleventh Episcopal District, with great wisdom and foresight issued the clarion call to all pastors, itinerant ministers, local preachers, evangelists, licentiates, exhorters, First, Second, Third, and Fourth Year Students on the Lakeland District, Church School superintendents, Christian Education Directors, Presidents of Missionary Societies and Lay Organizations, District Stewards, Church Members and Friends to convene at Allen Temple African Methodist Episcopal Church in Lake Wales, FL for the Church School and Christian Education Convention from June 9 - 12, 2009 under the thematic inspiration of “Living the Best Life Christ Designed for You.”
The Reverend James Cleare and First Lady Sonja Clear along with the entire Allen Temple African Methodist Church family enthusiastically opened their doors with gracious hospitality to the Lively Lakeland District Church School and Christian Education Convention.
The Church School and Christian Education convention opened in customary fashion with dynamic worship – highlighted by the preached Word entitled, “When God Puts You on Hold, Don’t Hang Up” from Presiding Elder Jimmy J. Thompson of the Central District of the South Florida Conference. The service culminated with the celebration of Holy Communion.
Additional anointed sermons preached were, “Get Your Head Out of Delilah’s Lap” by the Reverend Thomas H. Poole, Jr.; “Tainted Vision” by the Reverend Ronnie L. Clark; “You Can’t Stop Me From Getting Where I’m Going” by Brother Jon Ingraham; and “I Refuse to Lose” by the Reverend Larry Keys.
Dynamic workshops based upon the convention theme of “Living the Life Christ Designed for Your Life” were powerfully presented by the Rev. Linda Hayes, the Rev. Rubin Ancrum, the Rev. Laura White, the Rev. Thomas Poole, the Rev. Tina Knight, the Rev. Kirk Bogen, the Rev. Sidney Bain; and Sisters Kiara Davenport, Janice Brown, Bernice Smith, Andreesa Harris, Doretha Tillman, Jeanette McKenzie, Quida Sanders, Sandra Wilkerson, Jeanette Daniels, Jacquelyn Bogen and Brothers Leo Longworth, Raleigh Jackson and Dr. Frank Satchel.
The following nine youth departments demonstrated scholastic excellence in the 2009 “Lively” Lakeland District Brain Bowl: Hurst Chapel, Winter Haven, Florida.; Mt. Sinai, Medulla, Fl.; New Mt. Zion, New Bethel, Lakeland, Florida; Ivey Chapel, Nocatee, Florida; New Mt. Olive, Avon Park, Florida; St. James, Bartow, Florida; Allen Temple, Lake Wales, Florida; and Greater Mt. Zion, Sebring, Florida. This year’s Brain Bowl was extremely competitive with first place going to Mt. Sinai, Medulla, Florida second place to Greater Mt. Zion, Sebring, Florida; and third to Ivey Chapel, Nocatee, Florida. Even though all nine youth departments could not win first place, each participant demonstrated high scholastic achievement and Christian excellence and deserve our encouragement, admiration - as well as a standing ovation!
The Presiding Elder did allow the Lay Organization and the Sons of Allen to hold their annual worship services. Brother Barry White brought the message for the Lay Organization Service entitled: “Some Things Just Don’t Matter.”
Special commendations are given to the convention’s music ministry which was par excellent with choirs participating from Hurst Chapel, Allen Temple, and New Mt. Olive in addition to the ‘Lively” Lakeland District Youth Choir.
The Church School and Christian Education Convention closed with a Teen Debate entitled “Is It Ever Okay for Children to Disobey Well-Meaning Parents?” facilitated by Attorney Shirley Pellarchy. Showing their scholastic ability once again, this debate was comprised of high school and middle school students. The winners were: Middle School Division – first place winner, Imani Powell, Mt. Zion, Sebring, Florida; second place winner, De’Andre Owens, New Bethel, Lakeland, Florida; and third place winner; De’Aundra Oldfield, New Bethel, Lakeland, Florida. High School Division: first place winner, Harvey Simmons, New Bethel, Lakeland, Florida.; second place winner, Thomas Hartsfield, New Bethel, Lakeland, Florida; and third place winner, Don’Tavius Sanders, Mt. Zion, Bartow, Florida.
The “Lively” Lakeland District was graced with the presence of Sister’s Barbara Bouie – the Connectional Worship Director for the Women’s Missionary Society, Coretha Larkins- President of the West Coast Conference Women’s Missionary Society and Karen Chester – First Vice-President of the West Coast Conference Women’s Missionary Society.
We applaud the newly appointed Church School Superintendent Sister Sandra Wilkerson, Assistant Superintendent Sister Teresa White, and the Christian Education Director, the Reverend Willie M. Hogan for their hard work in making this Church School and Christian Education Convention a resounding success.
We praise God for the First Lady of the District - Sister Laurastine Lemon, a woman of immense wisdom and humility along with unquestioned administrative astuteness.
We salute our Presiding Elder, F. Bernard Lemon, for his enduring faith in the midst of great personal challenge; and under his dynamic leadership, the Lively Lakeland District is yet again the envy of the West Coast Conference.
We give a standing ovation to the Reverend James Cleare and Sonja Cleare and the entire Allen Temple AME Church family for their gracious hospitality.
This article submitted by the Rev. Shirley Williams, the Rev. Willie M. Hogan, the Rev. Casabell Taylor, the Rev. Linda Hayes, the Rev. Kirk Bogen, the Rev. Jack Washington, the Rev. Thomas H. Poole, Jr., and the Rev. Sidney Bain.
6. SUNDAY SCHOOL CONVENTION 2009 AT SILVER CITY, BRANSON, MISSOURI:
Presiding Elder Donna F. Roberson and Presiding Elder Steven A. Cousin, Sr. join forces to provide an educational experience for the youth and adults of the Kansas City South and Kansas City District of the Midwest Conference of the Fifth Episcopal District. Bishop T. Larry Kirkland is the Presiding Prelate.
On June 6, 2009 nearly 170 youth and adults boarded three chartered buses at 5:30 a.m. to travel to Silver Dollar City in Branson, Missouri that is located three hours from Kansas City, Missouri. Silver Dollar City is a theme park with a 1880s craft village favor-filled with exciting rides, family activities and cultured shows. The purpose of the visit was to host the Sunday School Convention 2009. The Bible says, “Gather the people together, men, and women, and children, and thy stranger that is within thy gates, that they may hear, and that they may learn, and fear the Lord your God, and observe to do all the words of this law”. Furthermore, the AME Churches that participated were St. John, Kansas City Missouri; Ward Chapel, Richmond, MO; St. Paul, Independence, MO; St. Luke, Liberty, MO; Power of Faith, Kansas City Missouri; Gregg Tabernacle, Kansas City Missouri; Gilbert Memorial, Kansas City Missouri; Ebenezer, Kansas City Missouri; Christ Our Redeemer Kansas City Missouri; Bethel, Kansas City Missouri; Allen Chapel, Kansas City, Missouri; and Cain Grant, Kansas City Missouri.
The challenge was given to design a curriculum centered on three of the many demonstrations present at Silver Dollar. The selected demonstrations were: blacksmith, potter and candle maker. Other demonstrations that are present at Silver Dollar City are: silversmith, baker, lye soap making, chip carving, blade smith, coppersmith, craftsmen, taffy making, duplicating lathe, basket maker, glass cuter and furniture craftsmen. When Henry Pearly, a member of St. Paul African Methodist Episcopal Church, Independence, Missouri received the challenge of creating a curriculum for the Sunday School Convention, he selected the theme as “The Molding of Character for Life.”
The Sunday School Convention description was for the youth and adults to do an in-depth study of the demonstrations on how they affect the molding of character for life. Also, attention was given to questions of historical findings and literary form as they relate to religious ideas and teachings for students. In addition measurable learning outcomes were addressed to identify common threads of these demonstrations, analyze literary features of demonstrations and their significance for studying; identify major issues to the discounting of these occupations, explain how the theological message of the demonstration relates to the theological message of the Bible; review the application of the demonstration with literary and theological sensitivity; value more greatly the importance of these occupations for personal spiritual growth and Christian teaching and ministry; gain greater knowledge of the foundation of the African Methodist Episcopal Church.
When the attendees arrived at Silver Dollar City we visited Miss Molly’s, a restaurant in the theme park that had a buffet loaded with all types of hearty food items. After breakfast the group went to the Wilderness Church, a small wooden frame church building that reminded us of many of our AME Churches in the rural areas. Mr. Pearly provided us with a traditional order of service for Sunday School and instructions for the day. Also he gave the group instruction booklets. The small wooden frame church was packed standing room only. Even some of visitors of the theme park joined us in singing and praying. Both Presiding Elders gave remarks about the unique experience. Presiding Elder Roberson stated that “We talk about being in a recession but as she observed the tennis shoes that many of the youth were wearing are priced over one hundred dollars, and this visit will keep our youth alive one more day.”
After the remarks from the Presiding Elders, we launched into the day’s activities. Teachers were introduced and age groups were divided into classes: Toni Rone’ 1-4 years old; Ms. Huston 5-11 years old; Loretta Moore 12-16 years old; Rev. Eraina Marie Aseme 17-25 years old and Henry Pearly 25 years and older.
Each teacher took his/her class to a different area in the theme park in close proximity of one another and gave them 45 minutes of instruction on the three demonstrations with theological and practical application for life. Mr. Patrick C. Aseme, RN was our photographer.
Once the students participated in their class each group was escorted to the three demonstrations: the blacksmith, potter and candlestick maker. It was exciting to see the students observed the demonstrations and express what they had learned in class at the Sunday School Convention. For about one hour, the tours of the various demonstrations were viewed by the students. Now instructional period was completed as well as the tour it was time for what the youth and young adults had been waiting for fun, fun, fun. The attendees rode all types of thrilled rides. They also visited other attractions at the theme park.
Later, the group returned to Miss Molly’s restaurant and had dinner together. As the students boarded the buses to return back to Kansas City, they were given a gift bag that contained a catechism and passport for future use. It is our hope and prayer to keep the youth and adults interested to continue to do kingdom building.
Sincerely,
The Rev. Eraina Marie Aseme
Midwest Conference Public Relations Chairperson
7. SUPER SENSATIONAL SOUTH MEMPHIS DISTRICT LEADERSHIP SUMMIT:
*Lic. Wesley Stovall
Proverbs 29: 18 states, “Where there is no vision, the people perish: but he that keepeth the law, happy is he.” And we are glad in the Super Sensational South Memphis District of the 13th Episcopal District that we have a visionary leadership. Through the vision of our Presiding Elder, the Rev. Linda Faye Thomas Martin, the South Memphis District has embarked on a new journey to change, inspire, and influence the leadership of every church and community in our district. Presiding Elder Martin with the assistance of the Rev. Darrell Scott, chair of the Leadership Summit Committee, and all the members of the Leadership Summit Committee was able to plan a day of events to influence the leadership of the South Memphis District to change the way they do certain things in the church and their daily lives while bring new things to the your church that we build your church and help your community.
On Saturday, April 25, 2009 at New Tyler African Methodist Episcopal Church in Memphis, Tennessee, Presiding Elder Martin and the members of the Leadership Summit Committee would see all their hard work in play.
The theme of the Leadership Summit was “Leadership That Influences: A Time to Develop, Enrich, Grow and Nurture Youth and Adult Lay and Clergy with Outstanding Leadership Skills.”
The day began with a wonderful breakfast provided by New Tyler AME Church. After breakfast, the leadership training began with devotion lead by different licentiates across the district. Devotion consisted of the welcome from the host pastor, the Rev. Charlene Boone-Hinson, songs of praise to the Almighty God, reading of scriptures, and testimonies that set the house of the Lord on fire. After devotion, members in attendance for the summit went to their assigned sessions.
Sessions were available for the clergy, adults, and the youth.
The sessions for the youth were “Watch Me Do Me Part 1” & “Watch Me Do Me Part 2.” The sessions for the youth explained the Bible and other topics such as salvation in language that they use in the world today and how to explain the bible to others just they was taught.
The session for the adults and laity were “Qualifications of Leadership” and the “Seven ‘S’s’ for Service.” These sessions explained to the adults what qualifies someone to lead, how to define leadership, and what to remember while you are in the service of serving the God.”
The sessions for the clergy were “Clergy Burnout: If I could start my ministry over again?”, “God’s Yes…My No”, “Armor Bearers”, and “Prep for Pastoring 101.” These sessions explained to the clergy how to revive themselves when they feel like they can not go on, how to see the vision when you do not want to understand or do it, but God does, and how to prepare themselves for ministry.
After the sessions for the day had ended, members of the Leadership Summit came together to praise the name of Jesus and to hear a Word from the Lord. The speaker for the afternoon was the Rev. Robert Reid, a pastor from the 4th Episcopal District where the Right Reverend John R. Bryant is Presiding Prelate. After a wonderful message from Rev. Reid and worship experience, the day concluded with lunch provided by New Tyler AME Church.
Special Thanks goes out to the visionary, the Rev. Linda Faye Thomas Martin; the Rev. Darryl Scott and the members of the Leadership Summit Committee; the Rev. Charlene Boone-Hinson and the members of New Tyler AME Church; all clergy, lay, youth who attended the Leadership Summit; and the LORD God Almighty for making this event possible.
*Licentiate Wesley Stovall is the South Memphis District Reporter and a member of Wright’s Chapel AME Church
8. 13th EPISCOPAL DISTRICT’S BELIEVE INC. TO HOST 2009 BRONZE GOLF TOURNAMENT:
Win a new car on a Par Three
Nashville, TN. Believe Inc., the philanthropic arm of the 13th District of the African Methodist Episcopal Church, will host its 2009 Bronze Golf Tournament July 7, 2009 at the Two Rivers Course in Nashville, Tennessee. Tee time is at 8 a.m.
The tournament is a fun-filled outreach event sponsored by Believe Inc., of the 13th Episcopal District. Bishop Vashti Murphy McKenzie, presiding prelate of the District says, “This is a spiritually-based experience to bring together men and women who share the fun of golfing with their love for the Lord.”
The golf tournament is yet another way the church is reaching out to its parishioners with activities beyond the worship center. Someone can win a car on a Par Three with a hole in one. Other prizes include Southwest Airlines round trip air fare to any destination where Southwest flies. There will be appearances by special celebrities including Chris Sanders, formerly of the Tennessee Titans. Pre-activities include a Tee Table Toast on June 25 and weekly practice lessons at Ted Rhodes Golf Course, Saturdays at 9 a.m.
Joe Turner, President of Believe, Inc., and Chief Coordinator of the golf tournament says, “We are getting everyone involved in this experience, from ministers to missionaries-- all who enjoy golfing and look forward to having a great experience.” The event will have special networking opportunities, outstanding prizes and a golf experience like no other.
The tournament is limited to 144 golfers. Registration is now available and the cost is $150.00, which includes tournament play, lunch and a souvenir gift. Proceeds from the event go to scholarships for students in the 13th District, church programs and improvement projects throughout the AMEC 13th District, which includes Tennessee and Kentucky.
This tournament is the first of four tournaments as part of a four-year plan leading up to the African Methodist Episcopal Church General Conference that will be held in Nashville in 2012. The inaugural tournament is the Bronze event, held July 7, 2009, followed by the Silver-2010, Gold -2011 and the ultimate event, the Platinum Golf Tournament to be held 2012.
For information visit the Web site at www.believeinc.org. Registration information, dates of events and a 2009 Bronze Tournament store are available. You may also contact Joe Turner at 615. 391.0523.
9. OPEN LETTER - A RECOVERY MOVEMENT FOR THE AME CHURCH - “A STITCH IN TIME”:
Dr. Clement Fugh
A couple of months ago I met with a small group of clergy and laypersons to recruit them to join me in a movement to recover the core values and foundational principles upon which the African Methodist Episcopal Church was built and that remain critical to its vitality in the present age. Little did I know when we met that the United Methodist Church was just concluding a study that showed “a 25% decline in an already aging membership.” In response, they launched a $20 million initiative to “stop the bleeding.”
I am challenged each time I hear someone say that the fastest growing denomination is “Used to be AME!” The job of stopping the hemorrhage is too big for one person or a committee or even a department. It requires a movement by persons such as you to make the difference.
So, I recruit you!
Your mission is twofold.
First, share with me the thoughts that “Recovery Movement” evokes for you when you consider the past, present and future of the AME Church. Some have already sent their responses.
Next, with camera in hand or keypad before you, document recovery wherever you see it. Send pictures, text messages and forward articles depicting community involvement and outreach, evangelistic crusades, capital improvement, and renewal in its many shapes and forms to cio@AME-Church.com. Write “Recovery” in the subject line so that your submission is properly catalogued.
When the “Recovery” website is launched in a few weeks we will share your submissions as evidence that there is a movement afoot, a commitment for the Church of Richard and Sarah Allen to be the church of generations following.
I recruit you!
Allow me to remind you to mark your calendar for July 23, 2009, Nashville, TN, when we will meet to organize for the Official Launch which will be held at 7:00 a.m., November 14th at the seat of the Thirteenth District Planning Meeting.
Dr. Clement W. Fugh
Candidate for the Episcopacy – 2012
10. THE 95TH SESSION ON THE HAMPTON UNIVERSITY MINISTERS CONFERENCE - “THE PROPHETIC ROLE IN DIFFICULT TIMES”:
The Rev. G. "Paris" M. Kelly
As thousands of ministers and laity traveled from across the United Sates and from overseas, the smell of southern fried chicken, collard greens, fried fish and pork chops and other food entrees, greeted those who arrived at the 95th Annual Hampton University Ministers' Conference and 75th Annual Choir Directors' and Organists' Guild Workshop. Sampling the food from the various vendors was difficult to resist. What a time of celebration and festival to be remembered in the history of the conference.
On Monday, June 8, 2009, the Hampton University Ministers Conference convened the 95th session with the theme, “The Prophetic Role in Difficult Times.” Dr. Walter Thomas past President of the Conference served as presiding officer.
Dr. William H. Curtis, President of the largest African American interdenominational Ministers conference motivated the assembly of over 8,000 attendees with these words: “It gives me great pleasure to honor Dr. William Harvey, President of Hampton University for his 31 years of service to this historic University and ardent supporter of this Conference. We come into this assembly to provide a place for those all around the world to connect and together to strengthen relationships between churches and denominations. To the Rev. Debra Haggins O’Bryant, the first female Chaplain and Executive Secretary and Treasurer along with our former past Executive Officer, Dr. Michael Battle, who has been appointed by President Barack Obama to serve as Ambassador to the African Union. Greetings; I’m an introvert by nature and my members at Mount Ararat know that my style is to get directly to the point, and that’s what I am going to do."
Dr. Curtis’ message as the President of the Hampton University Ministers Conference is somewhat similar to the President of the United States’ "State of the Union" address. The President’s message sets the tone, while bringing priority and focus to the gathering. It is the President’s responsibility to speak to the heart of the audience. He shared that it is the responsibility of the church to speak to the relevant issues of the United States and the world. He went on to say that members of our communities are experiencing economic challenges.
Pastor/prophets must speak boldly, fearlessly and all of us need to be reminded that our “sanctified anointing” has not rescued us from job losses and home foreclosures. The most important thing that we, as a church, must understand, is that “content can take you where style can’t."
From Tuesday June 9 through Friday June 12 a series of workshops, lectures, recitals, luncheons and devotions were conducted by a few of the most profound professors, preachers, songwriters and educators in the African-American community.
The Rev. Dr. Suzan Johnson Cook and the Rev. Dr. Cynthia Hall were the moderators for the George A. Crawley-Women in Ministry Hour. The panelists were the Rev. Shon Akins, the Rev. Classy Preston, the Rev. Brenda Ray, the Rev. Lorraine Jacques-White, the Rev. Sarah Roberts, and the Rev. Johnsie Cogman.
Dr. Geoffrey V. Gunns, senior pastor of Second Calvary Church, Norfolk, Virginia led a workshop entitled “Church Leadership in the 21st Century.” There were other outstanding workshops and presentations to include the American Cancer Society, Pastor Ray Johnson, Calvary Revival Church; the Association of African-American Student Chaplains; Attorney Courtney Dunbar Jones, Esq.; the Virginia Preachers.com, and Minister Rashad D. L. Cartwright.
Pastor Rita Twiggs and Pastor Jerome Barber both served as early morning prayer leaders. National Gospel recording artist, Elder Peggy Britt, served as morning song leader; the evening song leader was Eli Wilson and the morning preacher was Dr. Claybon Lea.
The A.C.D. Senior Statesperson Hour guest speaker was Dr. Harold A. Carter, Sr. The morning lectures were Dr. Renita Weems and Dr. Brad Braxton. The noonday preacher was Dr. Claudette Copeland. Each preacher and lecturer had their unique revelation of the conference theme: "The Prophetic Role in Difficult Times.”
There were numerous vendors and resource organizations in the passageway of the Convocation Center.
There were booths with displays of Palmer Theological Seminary, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Shaw University, Raleigh, NC, Emory Candler School of Theology, Atlanta, Regent University in Virginia Beach, Virginia Union Theological Seminary, the Presbyterian School of Christian Education in Richmond, and many more academic institutions.
With thousands of people standing to their feet, tears rolling down their faces, hands lifted up in praise and admiration to the Lord, the Hampton University 95th session of the Ministers Conference is now being inspired by highly skilled and educated professors who have been trained at the United Theological Seminary, Dayton, Ohio; Princeton Theological Seminary; Emory University; with key note speaker, the Rev. Dr. H. Beecher Hicks, senior Pastor of Metropolitan Baptist Church, Washington, DC.
“The empire is collapsed, there is murder in the church and the more dangerous the time, the more important the prophet is to the church. Prophets emerge in hard times. The prophetic is more than a social critic. Poetic is a prophet, but the prophet is more than poetry. So you want to be a prophet?" asked Dr. Weems.
Dr. Hicks pastor's a congregation of over 6,000 in Washington, DC said, "There is someone in here that needs to holler. Blind Bartimaeus received a miracle when he shouted out; so church, don’t be afraid to holler.”
Dr. Braxton said, “God is creative.” We must use preaching to create space. We must use imaginary preaching because one thing that makes God mad is having a boring sermon. In our Christian ministry to the world we must understand not only the homiletics of the preaching but that music plays a vital role in our worship experience.
Dr. Copeland encouraged the attendees to have gospel wide enough to see a vision for the whole world.
Dr. William H. Curtis reminded us that, “We have a responsibility to lead in legacy. Every time we walk outside of our front doors we have to be grateful for those who came before us.”
The conference was a time of retreat and consecration for all the attendees.
11. WHEN HATE FINDS A HOME:
*The Rev. N.T. Pitts
The recent incident at the Holocaust Museum in Washington is just the tip of the iceberg. People who hate are miserable people. They don’t like themselves and therefore they don’t like others. What they don’t realize is that the person(s) being hated become their master. What I mean by that is, all of what you do, all of what you say, all of the money you spend, all of the sleepless nights, all of the meals you miss, all of the time you spend and all of the physical pain you endure is controlled by the person you hate, unaware. Your life is wasted and nothing is accomplished. What a pity.
When hate finds a home it stays and does what it is supposed to do and that is to make you miserable and destroy you. Hating has never and will never solve any problems. Those who hate die hatefully unless they evict hate before they die. None of us are born hating or loving. We learn to hate as we learn to love.
I remember sometime ago I saw a western and in that movie the star, Don “Red” Barry, set out to find the man who killed his dad. He spent years on his horse riding from town to town looking getting into brawls and shooting and killing people. When he finally found the man, the man was old and pitiful looking and could not remember the incident. Don “Red” Barry took a good look at the man took his gun from its holster and said is this what I have been searching for all these years. He then took his weapon and threw it on the ground and said you are not worth killing, and rode away on his horse.
That movie reminds me of all the valuable time, energy and money wasted, hating. Hating will put wrinkles in your face, but it won’t take them out. Hating will give you high blood pressure. Hating will give insomnia. Hating will ruin your appetite. The person you hate has no problem with any of the above. Now guess who is the one most miserable. The aura of a hateful person keeps people at a distance; even animals can sense unpleasantness.
Have you ever gotten up in the morning and tried to remember you were supposed to be angry about something and couldn’t remember what it was? Well if you did, that’s good. A person who hates has no trouble remembering the object of their hate simply because hate is always at home.
Hate finds a home where there is an absence of love.
Hate finds a home where there is an absence of compassion
Hate finds a home where there is an absence of sympathy.
Hate finds a home where there is selfishness
Hate finds a home where there is bitterness
Hate finds a home where there is jealousy and envy.
Hate finds a home where there is an unjustified sense of fear
Hate finds a home where there is a feeling of inferiority
Can you imagine eighty eight years of wasted time, energy and money spent hating? There are many more out there waiting to explode.
Don’t give hate a home tell hate there is no room available
*The Rev. N.T. Pitts Pastor is a retired pastor living in Eatonville, Florida
12. CLERGY FAMILY CONGRATULATORY NOTICES:
- The Swearing-In Ceremony for Yolanda A. Bruce, Esq. was recently held at the State Attorney’s Office in Orlando, FL where she works as Prosecutor.
We cordially invite you to share this occasion via the Internet:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xqPS6ruldXs
Her brother, Derek Bruce, Esq., continues his legal profession launching Edge Public Affairs, LLC, Orlando. Visit the website www.edgepublicaffairs.com.
Yolanda and Derek are the children of Gloria and the late General Officer/Presiding Elder Yale Benjamin Bruce, Sr.
Congratulatory responses can be sent to their proud mother:
Mrs. Gloria Bruce - brucegs@bellsouth.net
- Six AME students awarded graduate degrees by the United theological Seminary, Dayton, Ohio
The United Theological Seminary in Dayton, Ohio awarded four doctoral degrees to students who are clergy in the African Methodist Episcopal Church. In addition to the persons who graduated with their Doctor of Ministry degrees, one other member of the African Methodist Episcopal Church graduated with a Master of Divinity Degree and another person graduated with a Master of Theological Studies Degree. The graduation exercises were held on May 30, 2009.
(1) The Doctor of Ministry Degree:
The Reverend Dr. Ethel Cox Cato, Out-Reach Minister and Coordinator at the Greater Allen AME Cathedral, Queens, New York, Men-to-Men (1st Episcopal District): Telling the Stories Calling Forth Christian Men to Make a Difference
The Reverend Dr. Lanel D. Guyton, Pastor, St. Paul AME Church, Hamilton, Bermuda (1st Episcopal District), Transformation and Transition: Empowering the Church Towards Creating Relevant Ministries for Today and Tomorrow
The Reverend Dr. Otis J. Gordon, Jr., Pastor, Warren AME Church, Toledo, Ohio (3rd Episcopal District), The Design, Implementation and Evaluation of a Model for Spiritual Formation for Men at Warren AME Church
The Reverend Dr. Charlotte Ann Blake Sydnor, Pastor, Shorter Chapel AME Church, Franklin, Tennessee (13th Episcopal District), The Collaborative Role of Church Leadership in Empowering a Disenfranchised Community
Congratulatory messages may be sent to: cbsydnor@aol.com
(2) The Master of Divinity Degree:
The Reverend Stephanie Jeannie Ransom Upshaw, South Ohio Conference, 3rd Episcopal District of the African Methodist Episcopal Church
(3) The Master of Theological Studies:
The Reverend Karen Leigh Fox, South Ohio Conference, 3rd Episcopal District of the African Methodist Episcopal Church
"May God who has poured the love of Christ into their hearts by the Holy Spirit guide and guard them on their pilgrim way in serving the Church in times like these."
- Congratulations to Damian Tremayne Horne of Bethel AME Church of Franklin, Indiana. "Tremayne", the son of the Rev. Pamela Jones Horne, graduated from the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff (UAPB) on Saturday, May 9, 2009, with a B.A. in Mass Communications-Broadcast Journalism. While at UAPB, Tremayne was the tenor section leader in the internationally renowned Vesper Choir; and he was voted the UAPB 2009 Male Vocalist of the Year. As the Vesper Choir Tenor section leader he sang throughout U.S. and Italy, including at the Vatican. In addition to being a very active part of campus life (founding member of UAPB chapter of Phi Mu Alpha, student government, Kappa Alpha Psi) Tremayne also faithfully served at Greater Ward AME Church Pine Bluff as an affiliate member (drummer, intermittent Sunday School teacher, Children's sermon presenter, choir). Other accomplishments: Steward at Bethel Franklin, IL; student leader-mentor for incoming freshmen, student camera man-hired by UAPB to film sporting events, UAPB tv/radio journalist, ESPN student worker, To God Be The Glory!
Congratulatory responses can be emailed to his proud mother:
The Rev. Pamela Jones Horne who is the pastor of Bethel AME Church in Franklin, Indiana – REVPAME@aol.com
13. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
We regret to share news of the passing of Mrs. Vera M. Pierson, the wife of the Rev. Dr. Harry D. Pierson, a retired pastor in the 4th Episcopal District. Mrs. Pierson was a member of Franklin A.M.E Church in Niles, Michigan. She was a devoted pastor's wife and served in the Women's Missionary Society in Michigan, Indiana, Illinois, and Iowa.
Mrs. Pierson passed on May 17, 2009. Surviving family includes her husband the Rev. Dr. Harry D Pierson, their children, Tony (Irene) Johnson of Concord, CA, Angela Pierson-Davis of Aurora, CO, Sabrina (Tim) Langford of New Albany, IN, Aletha Palmer of Savannah, GA, and April (Marcus) Bray of Niles, MI.
Expressions of sympathy may be sent to:
The Rev. Dr. Harry D. Pierson and family
1424 Woods Edge Drive
Niles, Michigan 49120
Or condolences may be emailed to Rev. Dr. Harry D. Pierson: hdp1424@sbcglobal.net
14. 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
AMEC Clergy Family Information Center
Email: Amespouses1@bellsouth.net
Phone: (615) 837-9736
Voice Mail: (615) 833-6936
Fax: (615) 833-3781
Cell: (615) 403-7751
15. 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 Reverend Dr. Johnny Barbour, Jr., Publisher
The Reverend Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III, Editor, The Christian Recorder
1. EDITORIAL – RESPONSES TO THE EDITORIAL “SOMETIMES WE ARE OUR WORST ENEMY, “EAGLE RAISED BY CHICKENS” MENTALITY”:
Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III
The 20th Editor of The Christian Recorder
This week’s editorial is different. I had so many informative responses to last week’s editorial, “Sometimes we are our worst enemy, “Eagle raised by chickens” that I thought it important to share some of the responses with our readers. I have purposely refrained from identifying the respondents because I want our readers to focus upon the responses rather than who wrote what. I hope that you find their comments as informative and helpful as I found them to be.
From the Editorial: Organizations are healthier and more effective when everyone in the organization “plays by the same rules.”
Comment: I agree, but you know that will never be the case for us, too many chiefs and not enough Indians who are strong enough to face the chiefs.
From the Editorial: So many of us are in a minimalist frame of thinking and we seek to meet the bare minimum requirements because we have an “eagle raised by chickens’ mentality.” We don’t think that we can soar to the high reaches of the sky; so with the eagle raised by chickens’ mentality,” we are satisfied scratching in the dirt and thinking that “everyone else’s ice is colder than our ice.” The minimalist mindset does not allow us to believe that “the sky is the limit,” so we do what we have to do “to get by, no more, no less.” The truth of the matter is that the pastor, clergy, and all officers in the local church should possess The Book of Discipline of the African Methodist Episcopal Church 2008.
Comment: Many of The Disciplines will not be sold until the Annual Conferences, which won't begin until late summer. Although the appeal to order online makes sense; it's not the "way we do things."
Comment: I was happy to learn today that there is someone in charge of taking orders for The 2008 Discipline for our church members. I ordered a copy, and so did one other family member.
From the Editorial: Subscribing to the AME periodicals, most pastors subscribe to The Christian Recorder and to one other periodical and call it a day; and probably rarely invite others in the congregation to subscribe to the various periodicals of the AME Church.
Comment: Some churches will make an announcement just before the Annual Conference, when the Annual Report Forms have to be filled out, saying to see “Sister So and So” if you want to subscribe to any of the AME periodicals. Vague; sounds unimportant. “Sister So and So” will take the names and money, but does not put forth any extra effort to get members to subscribe to the periodicals.
Comment: I know of one church that places a form in the bulletin that lists all of the AME periodicals with prices to make it easy for members to subscribe. I always thought that was a real plus for the members. However, there's one more step that would make it even more helpful and meaningful. How will the members looking at that form know what kind of information the periodicals cover? What's the difference in all these AME periodicals? Should I subscribe to this one or that one? What good will they do me?
Comment: I think it would be helpful if there could be a brief synopsis of each AME periodical and the focus of each periodical. It might be good to publish that information in The Christian Recorder. That might create interest and result in more subscriptions. It might encourage us to "soar to the high reaches of the sky" or, maybe a form could be developed and given to each pastor to utilize it with his or her congregation.
From the Editorial: We have churches that will use any materials except the AME Church School quarterlies. I have even heard of one member of the clergy who encouraged people to use other materials or to develop their own church school materials.
Comment: The problem has been corrected now, but years ago, we had to stop using AME Church School materials because they were consistently late and we'd have to cover a couple of Sundays without having the materials. There is no reason that I know of that we shouldn't support the people who have prepared those materials for our youngsters and those whose job it is to distribute them.
From the Editorial: “…if those teaching will develop lesson plans and do some outside research. If teachers use the Church School lessons “winging it and without prior study, it is hard.”
Comment: A teacher must be a good teacher; our children deserve that!
From the Editorial: I would suspect that if pastors took a box of The Disciplines to their local churches, they could sell them in a matter of minutes.
Comment: I agree! Absolutely! Immediate gratification! Tell me they're here. “See ‘Sister So and So’ right over there at the close of service. Buy your Discipline immediately.” No ordering; no waiting “Sister So and So” would have quite a crowd and would be proud to do her job. Why haven’t pastors taken the initiative and done that? Sell The Disciplines and get the task completed. Presiding elders should instruct their pastors to load up a box and take The Disciplines to their churches and sell them and use them in meetings and refer to The Discipline. If the pastors respect their Presiding Elders’ efforts to make things run better, or if they are “afraid” enough of their presiding elders; this would work, wouldn't it?
Comment: In our church, the officers are all new and I am sure that none of them have The Book of Discipline of the African Methodist Episcopal Church – 2008; and probably have not read The 2004 Discipline.
Comment: Speaking of The Discipline, One of our main Stewards goes to Annual Conference for Lay Night, but that's the only session he attends. I doubt that he's been to a regular business session of the annual conference, ever!
From the Editorial: "I am amazed at how casual we are about The Book of Discipline. As a journalist and as the Editor of The Christian Recorder, I have to be in a listening mode and from what I am hearing, it seems that the expectation for purchasing The Discipline is the same casual attitude that we have for subscribing to the periodicals of the A.M.E. Church. The expectation for The Discipline seems to be that every pastor will purchase The Book of Discipline, and there seems to be no “fire in the hole” for the officers and members of the local church to purchase The Book of Discipline."
Comment: Why can't the Bishops mandate that every annual conference delegate possess their own copy of The Discipline.
Comment: The Presiding Elders play, or should play, a major role a major role in the procedure of disseminating The Discipline. Stewards are confirmed at the Quarterly Conference and no steward should be confirmed if they do not possess their own copy of The Discipline.
Comment: The local pastor should be responsible to insure that the local church make copies of The Disciplines available and to insure that the officers of the local church can be trained in the use of The Discipline. This should be a part of the local church budget because The Discipline is the book of law and, ideally it should be available and provided to any member who wished to purchase one.
Comment: If pastors, officers and member don’t follow The Discipline, churches are not able to act according to the will of the General Conference.
Comment: Thank you for your observation in the sale of our Discipline and Church School Materials. I would love to be able to download The Discipline as an eBook or pdf (of course with the proper measures in place).
Comment: Just a comment on the Sunday School Materials. I notice that our materials are good, but they are not competitive as they could be. I have also observed that the majority of the youth that attend Church School range between juniors and intermediates. The intermediate books are wordy with little, to no activities. The senior books however are less wordy and heavy on activities. The junior book seems to have an equal balance of both. I am not sure of what message we are trying to convey here with each group, but, I go out of my way to make the lessons interesting, because I want our students to come back, not because they are made to, but because they want to; It is always my hope that they will continue to come back and see what good things God has done and is still doing for His people.
Editor’s Comment: I wish to thank all of those who shared their informative comments. We can all learn something when we listen.
2. READER RESPONSE TO EDITORIAL AND OTHER ISSUES:
To the Editor:
RE: “Sometimes we are our worst enemy, “Eagle raised by chickens” mentality”
I was very impressed and yet disturbed about your article on the purchase (lack of) of The Book of Discipline of the African Methodist Episcopal Church 2008. I am making an announcement at our church, The Historic Ebenezer AME Church in Detroit about our Lay Organization purchasing The Disciplines for sale. I sadly remember in 2004 when I was a delegate to the General Conference -- it took me almost three weeks to get The Discipline from my local church (starting with the Lay Organization, Minister, Presiding Elder, etc.) I guess everyone was waiting for something to happen. I finally was able to get one from the AMEC Sunday School Union in Nashville.
Our founder, Bishop Richard Allen says the three books that every AME should own - the Bible, an AME Hymnal and The AME Discipline. Thank you for reminding us of how important this is.
Tina Stephens
3. LET’S FIND A BETTER WAY:
*Dr. Jamye Coleman Williams
Forty-nine years ago at the General Conference of 1960 in Los Angeles, I was directly involved in the campaign for bishop of my late brother, Fred “Buster” Coleman, who was the standard bearer for the 13th Episcopal District. He was not only a dedicated minister but also a medical doctor whose ambition was to serve as a missionary bishop in Africa. His slogan was “Have Kit and Bible—Will Travel.” Because he was only 39 he included in his campaign literature the statement: “Not too old to be a physical liability. Not too young to lack proper experience.” The practice of his career as a medical doctor had made it possible for him to launch one of the first elaborate campaigns—nothing, however, like the ones that have continued to evolve.
The Sunday after the close of the 48th Session of our recent General Conference, I had a long-time, loyal laywoman to confront me about the way candidates, for the bishopric, are obliged to campaign. She was dismayed about it because of her experience with pastors of her own church who had been successful candidates. She suggested that I as a vocal AME should address this issue. As I reflected about this General Conference I did admit that in my judgment it had been, in general, one of our most uplifting ones—as it related especially to the decorum of the delegates: There was no stopping the work of the General Conference with a sustained chorus of “No! No! No! We won’t have it!” No singing “I’m on the Battlefield” and “Amen” until the delegates got their way as they did at the 1948 General Conference! No embarrassing march around the auditorium with signs deposited in trash cans as happened in 1956! No effort to shout down the effort to substitute voting machines as it occurred in 1960! No firestorm over a resolution to move all the bishops, which happened in 1964 and in 1984! No “boos” from some delegates to deny me the opportunity to defend the resolution to elect a woman to the bishopric which was introduced in 2000! None of that! And for that I am grateful.
I am, on the other hand, saddened over the way we misuse the servants of God who aspire to the highest office of the Church. I know personally how the candidates feel who are not able to realize their dreams at that time. I am sad for the families, friends, church members, supporters, and campaign managers who also feel the pain of disappointment. But, most of all, I grieve for the children, the young people who were involved in the campaigns of their fathers and their pastors—who always appear to be so devastated over the loss.
Shame on us for not finding a better way to elect bishops in our 193-year old organized church! No other church expects the candidates to use so much physical energy and to spend so much of their own financial resources and those of their supporters to achieve the high office of the bishopric. It does not start at the General Conference. It begins when he or she announces his/her candidacy. Local churches celebrating anniversaries, hosting annual conferences; organizations, such as my own Connectional Lay Organization, conducting forums that require a generous donation; Episcopal district meetings looking for contributions; some delegates expecting special favors. And the list goes on.
There has to be a better way. In addition to the qualifications necessary for ordination as an elder—college graduate, degree from a seminary accredited by the Association of Theological Schools or a similar accrediting agency, there need to be other considerations. What about years of measurable, successful pastoral service: Churches built? Debts retired? Memberships increased through conversions to Christ and accessions? Service to the Church on the Connectional level? Contributions to communities, thereby enhancing the image of African Methodism? Aspiring to the bishopric should be approached seriously, prayerfully, and with a genuine desire to serve God and the Church in a larger way. It is not an office that should be sought to satisfy personal ambition for recognition, prestige, and economic security.
Shame on us for knowing that some of our brothers and sisters may not at the moment have a chance of being elected, but we exploit them anyway. Shame on us for misleading our brothers and sisters with broken promises. Shame on us for knowingly encouraging persons who we know do not have a chance at the time. Shame on us for our behavior at the General Conference which is so often more like the secular world than like the Church of Jesus Christ.
May God touch our hearts and help us find a better way to elevate our brothers and sisters before we celebrate the 200th Anniversary of our great Church.
*Dr. Jamye Coleman Williams is a retired General Officer and was the first elected female General Officer in the AME Church. She is a member of Big Bethel AME Church in Atlanta
4. AN UPDATE FROM THE 18TH EPISCOPAL DISTRICT:
The Right Rev. E. Earl McCloud
Presiding Prelate of the 18th Episcopal District
In February 2009, the 18th Episcopal District had the privilege of serving as host for the Global Development Council (GDC) meeting in Swaziland. This was followed by the District Mid-Year meeting, held in March 2009 in the newly renovated F. C. James Center in Maseru. At this juncture, we are mere weeks away from opening T’sepong Cecelia Williams Bryant Home. God is good!
On a personal note - in April 2009, the doctors at the Mayo Clinic Hospital in Scottsdale, Arizona, diagnosed me with pulmonary emboli (multiple blood clots in both lungs). The condition is treatable with oral anticoagulants therapy. Recovery is taking place presently at our home in Atlanta. Thank you in advance for your prayers for healing. Your continued prayers and support of the work of the 18th Episcopal District are greatly needed and appreciated.
We continue to be enthused about this new opportunity and the challenges the work brings. We will begin building the “Administration Building at the Selulasandla Vashti AME Village” (an orphanage) in Swaziland within the next two months. We received during the 18th District Mid-Year Meeting additional funds to support our educational enterprises. Thankfully, we received from the Rev. Dr. Cecilia Williams Bryant funds for furniture to open “T’sepong Cecelia Williams Bryant Orphanage”.
As previously stated, the 18th Episcopal District has the following programs and projects in place that require our immediate and continual financial support:
• M. Joan Cousin Children’s Aid Center in Botswana ($1,500.00) monthly;
• Selulasandla Vashti A.M.E. Village (Three (3) HIV/AIDS homes for Children) in Mbane, Swaziland ($2,500.00) monthly;
• 42 primary schools spread throughout the Episcopal District;
• T’sepong Cecelia Williams Bryant Home ($1,000.00) monthly;
• F. C. James Center of AME Services in Maseru, Lesotho ($2,500.00) monthly.
We invite you to become a part of the work of the 18th Episcopal District by becoming a “Covenant Partner.” Please review the attached flyer to see how you can help. Be reasonable in your gifts and try to spread them over the next thirty-seven (37) months.
Additionally, we invite you to plan a trip to Southern Africa during the next four years and include the 18th Episcopal District in your trip. We are encouraged and hope that you will be excited about our work and that you would be willing to make a contribution. Please add us to your prayer list and keep us and the work lifted up to the Lord.
E. Earl McCloud, Jr.
Resident Bishop
18th Episcopal District AMEC
Botswana, Mozambique, Lesotho & Swaziland
Overseas telephone number: 011-266-5912-8383
5. THE “LIVELY” LAKELAND DISTRICT OF THE WEST COAST CONFERENCE OF THE 11TH EPISCOPAL DISTRICT CHURCH SCHOOL AND CHRISTIAN EDUCATION CONVENTION:
The Rev. Shirley A. Williams, District Secretary
Presiding Elder F. Bernard Lemon of the “Lively” Lakeland District, West Coast Conference of the Eleventh Episcopal District, with great wisdom and foresight issued the clarion call to all pastors, itinerant ministers, local preachers, evangelists, licentiates, exhorters, First, Second, Third, and Fourth Year Students on the Lakeland District, Church School superintendents, Christian Education Directors, Presidents of Missionary Societies and Lay Organizations, District Stewards, Church Members and Friends to convene at Allen Temple African Methodist Episcopal Church in Lake Wales, FL for the Church School and Christian Education Convention from June 9 - 12, 2009 under the thematic inspiration of “Living the Best Life Christ Designed for You.”
The Reverend James Cleare and First Lady Sonja Clear along with the entire Allen Temple African Methodist Church family enthusiastically opened their doors with gracious hospitality to the Lively Lakeland District Church School and Christian Education Convention.
The Church School and Christian Education convention opened in customary fashion with dynamic worship – highlighted by the preached Word entitled, “When God Puts You on Hold, Don’t Hang Up” from Presiding Elder Jimmy J. Thompson of the Central District of the South Florida Conference. The service culminated with the celebration of Holy Communion.
Additional anointed sermons preached were, “Get Your Head Out of Delilah’s Lap” by the Reverend Thomas H. Poole, Jr.; “Tainted Vision” by the Reverend Ronnie L. Clark; “You Can’t Stop Me From Getting Where I’m Going” by Brother Jon Ingraham; and “I Refuse to Lose” by the Reverend Larry Keys.
Dynamic workshops based upon the convention theme of “Living the Life Christ Designed for Your Life” were powerfully presented by the Rev. Linda Hayes, the Rev. Rubin Ancrum, the Rev. Laura White, the Rev. Thomas Poole, the Rev. Tina Knight, the Rev. Kirk Bogen, the Rev. Sidney Bain; and Sisters Kiara Davenport, Janice Brown, Bernice Smith, Andreesa Harris, Doretha Tillman, Jeanette McKenzie, Quida Sanders, Sandra Wilkerson, Jeanette Daniels, Jacquelyn Bogen and Brothers Leo Longworth, Raleigh Jackson and Dr. Frank Satchel.
The following nine youth departments demonstrated scholastic excellence in the 2009 “Lively” Lakeland District Brain Bowl: Hurst Chapel, Winter Haven, Florida.; Mt. Sinai, Medulla, Fl.; New Mt. Zion, New Bethel, Lakeland, Florida; Ivey Chapel, Nocatee, Florida; New Mt. Olive, Avon Park, Florida; St. James, Bartow, Florida; Allen Temple, Lake Wales, Florida; and Greater Mt. Zion, Sebring, Florida. This year’s Brain Bowl was extremely competitive with first place going to Mt. Sinai, Medulla, Florida second place to Greater Mt. Zion, Sebring, Florida; and third to Ivey Chapel, Nocatee, Florida. Even though all nine youth departments could not win first place, each participant demonstrated high scholastic achievement and Christian excellence and deserve our encouragement, admiration - as well as a standing ovation!
The Presiding Elder did allow the Lay Organization and the Sons of Allen to hold their annual worship services. Brother Barry White brought the message for the Lay Organization Service entitled: “Some Things Just Don’t Matter.”
Special commendations are given to the convention’s music ministry which was par excellent with choirs participating from Hurst Chapel, Allen Temple, and New Mt. Olive in addition to the ‘Lively” Lakeland District Youth Choir.
The Church School and Christian Education Convention closed with a Teen Debate entitled “Is It Ever Okay for Children to Disobey Well-Meaning Parents?” facilitated by Attorney Shirley Pellarchy. Showing their scholastic ability once again, this debate was comprised of high school and middle school students. The winners were: Middle School Division – first place winner, Imani Powell, Mt. Zion, Sebring, Florida; second place winner, De’Andre Owens, New Bethel, Lakeland, Florida; and third place winner; De’Aundra Oldfield, New Bethel, Lakeland, Florida. High School Division: first place winner, Harvey Simmons, New Bethel, Lakeland, Florida.; second place winner, Thomas Hartsfield, New Bethel, Lakeland, Florida; and third place winner, Don’Tavius Sanders, Mt. Zion, Bartow, Florida.
The “Lively” Lakeland District was graced with the presence of Sister’s Barbara Bouie – the Connectional Worship Director for the Women’s Missionary Society, Coretha Larkins- President of the West Coast Conference Women’s Missionary Society and Karen Chester – First Vice-President of the West Coast Conference Women’s Missionary Society.
We applaud the newly appointed Church School Superintendent Sister Sandra Wilkerson, Assistant Superintendent Sister Teresa White, and the Christian Education Director, the Reverend Willie M. Hogan for their hard work in making this Church School and Christian Education Convention a resounding success.
We praise God for the First Lady of the District - Sister Laurastine Lemon, a woman of immense wisdom and humility along with unquestioned administrative astuteness.
We salute our Presiding Elder, F. Bernard Lemon, for his enduring faith in the midst of great personal challenge; and under his dynamic leadership, the Lively Lakeland District is yet again the envy of the West Coast Conference.
We give a standing ovation to the Reverend James Cleare and Sonja Cleare and the entire Allen Temple AME Church family for their gracious hospitality.
This article submitted by the Rev. Shirley Williams, the Rev. Willie M. Hogan, the Rev. Casabell Taylor, the Rev. Linda Hayes, the Rev. Kirk Bogen, the Rev. Jack Washington, the Rev. Thomas H. Poole, Jr., and the Rev. Sidney Bain.
6. SUNDAY SCHOOL CONVENTION 2009 AT SILVER CITY, BRANSON, MISSOURI:
Presiding Elder Donna F. Roberson and Presiding Elder Steven A. Cousin, Sr. join forces to provide an educational experience for the youth and adults of the Kansas City South and Kansas City District of the Midwest Conference of the Fifth Episcopal District. Bishop T. Larry Kirkland is the Presiding Prelate.
On June 6, 2009 nearly 170 youth and adults boarded three chartered buses at 5:30 a.m. to travel to Silver Dollar City in Branson, Missouri that is located three hours from Kansas City, Missouri. Silver Dollar City is a theme park with a 1880s craft village favor-filled with exciting rides, family activities and cultured shows. The purpose of the visit was to host the Sunday School Convention 2009. The Bible says, “Gather the people together, men, and women, and children, and thy stranger that is within thy gates, that they may hear, and that they may learn, and fear the Lord your God, and observe to do all the words of this law”. Furthermore, the AME Churches that participated were St. John, Kansas City Missouri; Ward Chapel, Richmond, MO; St. Paul, Independence, MO; St. Luke, Liberty, MO; Power of Faith, Kansas City Missouri; Gregg Tabernacle, Kansas City Missouri; Gilbert Memorial, Kansas City Missouri; Ebenezer, Kansas City Missouri; Christ Our Redeemer Kansas City Missouri; Bethel, Kansas City Missouri; Allen Chapel, Kansas City, Missouri; and Cain Grant, Kansas City Missouri.
The challenge was given to design a curriculum centered on three of the many demonstrations present at Silver Dollar. The selected demonstrations were: blacksmith, potter and candle maker. Other demonstrations that are present at Silver Dollar City are: silversmith, baker, lye soap making, chip carving, blade smith, coppersmith, craftsmen, taffy making, duplicating lathe, basket maker, glass cuter and furniture craftsmen. When Henry Pearly, a member of St. Paul African Methodist Episcopal Church, Independence, Missouri received the challenge of creating a curriculum for the Sunday School Convention, he selected the theme as “The Molding of Character for Life.”
The Sunday School Convention description was for the youth and adults to do an in-depth study of the demonstrations on how they affect the molding of character for life. Also, attention was given to questions of historical findings and literary form as they relate to religious ideas and teachings for students. In addition measurable learning outcomes were addressed to identify common threads of these demonstrations, analyze literary features of demonstrations and their significance for studying; identify major issues to the discounting of these occupations, explain how the theological message of the demonstration relates to the theological message of the Bible; review the application of the demonstration with literary and theological sensitivity; value more greatly the importance of these occupations for personal spiritual growth and Christian teaching and ministry; gain greater knowledge of the foundation of the African Methodist Episcopal Church.
When the attendees arrived at Silver Dollar City we visited Miss Molly’s, a restaurant in the theme park that had a buffet loaded with all types of hearty food items. After breakfast the group went to the Wilderness Church, a small wooden frame church building that reminded us of many of our AME Churches in the rural areas. Mr. Pearly provided us with a traditional order of service for Sunday School and instructions for the day. Also he gave the group instruction booklets. The small wooden frame church was packed standing room only. Even some of visitors of the theme park joined us in singing and praying. Both Presiding Elders gave remarks about the unique experience. Presiding Elder Roberson stated that “We talk about being in a recession but as she observed the tennis shoes that many of the youth were wearing are priced over one hundred dollars, and this visit will keep our youth alive one more day.”
After the remarks from the Presiding Elders, we launched into the day’s activities. Teachers were introduced and age groups were divided into classes: Toni Rone’ 1-4 years old; Ms. Huston 5-11 years old; Loretta Moore 12-16 years old; Rev. Eraina Marie Aseme 17-25 years old and Henry Pearly 25 years and older.
Each teacher took his/her class to a different area in the theme park in close proximity of one another and gave them 45 minutes of instruction on the three demonstrations with theological and practical application for life. Mr. Patrick C. Aseme, RN was our photographer.
Once the students participated in their class each group was escorted to the three demonstrations: the blacksmith, potter and candlestick maker. It was exciting to see the students observed the demonstrations and express what they had learned in class at the Sunday School Convention. For about one hour, the tours of the various demonstrations were viewed by the students. Now instructional period was completed as well as the tour it was time for what the youth and young adults had been waiting for fun, fun, fun. The attendees rode all types of thrilled rides. They also visited other attractions at the theme park.
Later, the group returned to Miss Molly’s restaurant and had dinner together. As the students boarded the buses to return back to Kansas City, they were given a gift bag that contained a catechism and passport for future use. It is our hope and prayer to keep the youth and adults interested to continue to do kingdom building.
Sincerely,
The Rev. Eraina Marie Aseme
Midwest Conference Public Relations Chairperson
7. SUPER SENSATIONAL SOUTH MEMPHIS DISTRICT LEADERSHIP SUMMIT:
*Lic. Wesley Stovall
Proverbs 29: 18 states, “Where there is no vision, the people perish: but he that keepeth the law, happy is he.” And we are glad in the Super Sensational South Memphis District of the 13th Episcopal District that we have a visionary leadership. Through the vision of our Presiding Elder, the Rev. Linda Faye Thomas Martin, the South Memphis District has embarked on a new journey to change, inspire, and influence the leadership of every church and community in our district. Presiding Elder Martin with the assistance of the Rev. Darrell Scott, chair of the Leadership Summit Committee, and all the members of the Leadership Summit Committee was able to plan a day of events to influence the leadership of the South Memphis District to change the way they do certain things in the church and their daily lives while bring new things to the your church that we build your church and help your community.
On Saturday, April 25, 2009 at New Tyler African Methodist Episcopal Church in Memphis, Tennessee, Presiding Elder Martin and the members of the Leadership Summit Committee would see all their hard work in play.
The theme of the Leadership Summit was “Leadership That Influences: A Time to Develop, Enrich, Grow and Nurture Youth and Adult Lay and Clergy with Outstanding Leadership Skills.”
The day began with a wonderful breakfast provided by New Tyler AME Church. After breakfast, the leadership training began with devotion lead by different licentiates across the district. Devotion consisted of the welcome from the host pastor, the Rev. Charlene Boone-Hinson, songs of praise to the Almighty God, reading of scriptures, and testimonies that set the house of the Lord on fire. After devotion, members in attendance for the summit went to their assigned sessions.
Sessions were available for the clergy, adults, and the youth.
The sessions for the youth were “Watch Me Do Me Part 1” & “Watch Me Do Me Part 2.” The sessions for the youth explained the Bible and other topics such as salvation in language that they use in the world today and how to explain the bible to others just they was taught.
The session for the adults and laity were “Qualifications of Leadership” and the “Seven ‘S’s’ for Service.” These sessions explained to the adults what qualifies someone to lead, how to define leadership, and what to remember while you are in the service of serving the God.”
The sessions for the clergy were “Clergy Burnout: If I could start my ministry over again?”, “God’s Yes…My No”, “Armor Bearers”, and “Prep for Pastoring 101.” These sessions explained to the clergy how to revive themselves when they feel like they can not go on, how to see the vision when you do not want to understand or do it, but God does, and how to prepare themselves for ministry.
After the sessions for the day had ended, members of the Leadership Summit came together to praise the name of Jesus and to hear a Word from the Lord. The speaker for the afternoon was the Rev. Robert Reid, a pastor from the 4th Episcopal District where the Right Reverend John R. Bryant is Presiding Prelate. After a wonderful message from Rev. Reid and worship experience, the day concluded with lunch provided by New Tyler AME Church.
Special Thanks goes out to the visionary, the Rev. Linda Faye Thomas Martin; the Rev. Darryl Scott and the members of the Leadership Summit Committee; the Rev. Charlene Boone-Hinson and the members of New Tyler AME Church; all clergy, lay, youth who attended the Leadership Summit; and the LORD God Almighty for making this event possible.
*Licentiate Wesley Stovall is the South Memphis District Reporter and a member of Wright’s Chapel AME Church
8. 13th EPISCOPAL DISTRICT’S BELIEVE INC. TO HOST 2009 BRONZE GOLF TOURNAMENT:
Win a new car on a Par Three
Nashville, TN. Believe Inc., the philanthropic arm of the 13th District of the African Methodist Episcopal Church, will host its 2009 Bronze Golf Tournament July 7, 2009 at the Two Rivers Course in Nashville, Tennessee. Tee time is at 8 a.m.
The tournament is a fun-filled outreach event sponsored by Believe Inc., of the 13th Episcopal District. Bishop Vashti Murphy McKenzie, presiding prelate of the District says, “This is a spiritually-based experience to bring together men and women who share the fun of golfing with their love for the Lord.”
The golf tournament is yet another way the church is reaching out to its parishioners with activities beyond the worship center. Someone can win a car on a Par Three with a hole in one. Other prizes include Southwest Airlines round trip air fare to any destination where Southwest flies. There will be appearances by special celebrities including Chris Sanders, formerly of the Tennessee Titans. Pre-activities include a Tee Table Toast on June 25 and weekly practice lessons at Ted Rhodes Golf Course, Saturdays at 9 a.m.
Joe Turner, President of Believe, Inc., and Chief Coordinator of the golf tournament says, “We are getting everyone involved in this experience, from ministers to missionaries-- all who enjoy golfing and look forward to having a great experience.” The event will have special networking opportunities, outstanding prizes and a golf experience like no other.
The tournament is limited to 144 golfers. Registration is now available and the cost is $150.00, which includes tournament play, lunch and a souvenir gift. Proceeds from the event go to scholarships for students in the 13th District, church programs and improvement projects throughout the AMEC 13th District, which includes Tennessee and Kentucky.
This tournament is the first of four tournaments as part of a four-year plan leading up to the African Methodist Episcopal Church General Conference that will be held in Nashville in 2012. The inaugural tournament is the Bronze event, held July 7, 2009, followed by the Silver-2010, Gold -2011 and the ultimate event, the Platinum Golf Tournament to be held 2012.
For information visit the Web site at www.believeinc.org. Registration information, dates of events and a 2009 Bronze Tournament store are available. You may also contact Joe Turner at 615. 391.0523.
9. OPEN LETTER - A RECOVERY MOVEMENT FOR THE AME CHURCH - “A STITCH IN TIME”:
Dr. Clement Fugh
A couple of months ago I met with a small group of clergy and laypersons to recruit them to join me in a movement to recover the core values and foundational principles upon which the African Methodist Episcopal Church was built and that remain critical to its vitality in the present age. Little did I know when we met that the United Methodist Church was just concluding a study that showed “a 25% decline in an already aging membership.” In response, they launched a $20 million initiative to “stop the bleeding.”
I am challenged each time I hear someone say that the fastest growing denomination is “Used to be AME!” The job of stopping the hemorrhage is too big for one person or a committee or even a department. It requires a movement by persons such as you to make the difference.
So, I recruit you!
Your mission is twofold.
First, share with me the thoughts that “Recovery Movement” evokes for you when you consider the past, present and future of the AME Church. Some have already sent their responses.
Next, with camera in hand or keypad before you, document recovery wherever you see it. Send pictures, text messages and forward articles depicting community involvement and outreach, evangelistic crusades, capital improvement, and renewal in its many shapes and forms to cio@AME-Church.com. Write “Recovery” in the subject line so that your submission is properly catalogued.
When the “Recovery” website is launched in a few weeks we will share your submissions as evidence that there is a movement afoot, a commitment for the Church of Richard and Sarah Allen to be the church of generations following.
I recruit you!
Allow me to remind you to mark your calendar for July 23, 2009, Nashville, TN, when we will meet to organize for the Official Launch which will be held at 7:00 a.m., November 14th at the seat of the Thirteenth District Planning Meeting.
Dr. Clement W. Fugh
Candidate for the Episcopacy – 2012
10. THE 95TH SESSION ON THE HAMPTON UNIVERSITY MINISTERS CONFERENCE - “THE PROPHETIC ROLE IN DIFFICULT TIMES”:
The Rev. G. "Paris" M. Kelly
As thousands of ministers and laity traveled from across the United Sates and from overseas, the smell of southern fried chicken, collard greens, fried fish and pork chops and other food entrees, greeted those who arrived at the 95th Annual Hampton University Ministers' Conference and 75th Annual Choir Directors' and Organists' Guild Workshop. Sampling the food from the various vendors was difficult to resist. What a time of celebration and festival to be remembered in the history of the conference.
On Monday, June 8, 2009, the Hampton University Ministers Conference convened the 95th session with the theme, “The Prophetic Role in Difficult Times.” Dr. Walter Thomas past President of the Conference served as presiding officer.
Dr. William H. Curtis, President of the largest African American interdenominational Ministers conference motivated the assembly of over 8,000 attendees with these words: “It gives me great pleasure to honor Dr. William Harvey, President of Hampton University for his 31 years of service to this historic University and ardent supporter of this Conference. We come into this assembly to provide a place for those all around the world to connect and together to strengthen relationships between churches and denominations. To the Rev. Debra Haggins O’Bryant, the first female Chaplain and Executive Secretary and Treasurer along with our former past Executive Officer, Dr. Michael Battle, who has been appointed by President Barack Obama to serve as Ambassador to the African Union. Greetings; I’m an introvert by nature and my members at Mount Ararat know that my style is to get directly to the point, and that’s what I am going to do."
Dr. Curtis’ message as the President of the Hampton University Ministers Conference is somewhat similar to the President of the United States’ "State of the Union" address. The President’s message sets the tone, while bringing priority and focus to the gathering. It is the President’s responsibility to speak to the heart of the audience. He shared that it is the responsibility of the church to speak to the relevant issues of the United States and the world. He went on to say that members of our communities are experiencing economic challenges.
Pastor/prophets must speak boldly, fearlessly and all of us need to be reminded that our “sanctified anointing” has not rescued us from job losses and home foreclosures. The most important thing that we, as a church, must understand, is that “content can take you where style can’t."
From Tuesday June 9 through Friday June 12 a series of workshops, lectures, recitals, luncheons and devotions were conducted by a few of the most profound professors, preachers, songwriters and educators in the African-American community.
The Rev. Dr. Suzan Johnson Cook and the Rev. Dr. Cynthia Hall were the moderators for the George A. Crawley-Women in Ministry Hour. The panelists were the Rev. Shon Akins, the Rev. Classy Preston, the Rev. Brenda Ray, the Rev. Lorraine Jacques-White, the Rev. Sarah Roberts, and the Rev. Johnsie Cogman.
Dr. Geoffrey V. Gunns, senior pastor of Second Calvary Church, Norfolk, Virginia led a workshop entitled “Church Leadership in the 21st Century.” There were other outstanding workshops and presentations to include the American Cancer Society, Pastor Ray Johnson, Calvary Revival Church; the Association of African-American Student Chaplains; Attorney Courtney Dunbar Jones, Esq.; the Virginia Preachers.com, and Minister Rashad D. L. Cartwright.
Pastor Rita Twiggs and Pastor Jerome Barber both served as early morning prayer leaders. National Gospel recording artist, Elder Peggy Britt, served as morning song leader; the evening song leader was Eli Wilson and the morning preacher was Dr. Claybon Lea.
The A.C.D. Senior Statesperson Hour guest speaker was Dr. Harold A. Carter, Sr. The morning lectures were Dr. Renita Weems and Dr. Brad Braxton. The noonday preacher was Dr. Claudette Copeland. Each preacher and lecturer had their unique revelation of the conference theme: "The Prophetic Role in Difficult Times.”
There were numerous vendors and resource organizations in the passageway of the Convocation Center.
There were booths with displays of Palmer Theological Seminary, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Shaw University, Raleigh, NC, Emory Candler School of Theology, Atlanta, Regent University in Virginia Beach, Virginia Union Theological Seminary, the Presbyterian School of Christian Education in Richmond, and many more academic institutions.
With thousands of people standing to their feet, tears rolling down their faces, hands lifted up in praise and admiration to the Lord, the Hampton University 95th session of the Ministers Conference is now being inspired by highly skilled and educated professors who have been trained at the United Theological Seminary, Dayton, Ohio; Princeton Theological Seminary; Emory University; with key note speaker, the Rev. Dr. H. Beecher Hicks, senior Pastor of Metropolitan Baptist Church, Washington, DC.
“The empire is collapsed, there is murder in the church and the more dangerous the time, the more important the prophet is to the church. Prophets emerge in hard times. The prophetic is more than a social critic. Poetic is a prophet, but the prophet is more than poetry. So you want to be a prophet?" asked Dr. Weems.
Dr. Hicks pastor's a congregation of over 6,000 in Washington, DC said, "There is someone in here that needs to holler. Blind Bartimaeus received a miracle when he shouted out; so church, don’t be afraid to holler.”
Dr. Braxton said, “God is creative.” We must use preaching to create space. We must use imaginary preaching because one thing that makes God mad is having a boring sermon. In our Christian ministry to the world we must understand not only the homiletics of the preaching but that music plays a vital role in our worship experience.
Dr. Copeland encouraged the attendees to have gospel wide enough to see a vision for the whole world.
Dr. William H. Curtis reminded us that, “We have a responsibility to lead in legacy. Every time we walk outside of our front doors we have to be grateful for those who came before us.”
The conference was a time of retreat and consecration for all the attendees.
11. WHEN HATE FINDS A HOME:
*The Rev. N.T. Pitts
The recent incident at the Holocaust Museum in Washington is just the tip of the iceberg. People who hate are miserable people. They don’t like themselves and therefore they don’t like others. What they don’t realize is that the person(s) being hated become their master. What I mean by that is, all of what you do, all of what you say, all of the money you spend, all of the sleepless nights, all of the meals you miss, all of the time you spend and all of the physical pain you endure is controlled by the person you hate, unaware. Your life is wasted and nothing is accomplished. What a pity.
When hate finds a home it stays and does what it is supposed to do and that is to make you miserable and destroy you. Hating has never and will never solve any problems. Those who hate die hatefully unless they evict hate before they die. None of us are born hating or loving. We learn to hate as we learn to love.
I remember sometime ago I saw a western and in that movie the star, Don “Red” Barry, set out to find the man who killed his dad. He spent years on his horse riding from town to town looking getting into brawls and shooting and killing people. When he finally found the man, the man was old and pitiful looking and could not remember the incident. Don “Red” Barry took a good look at the man took his gun from its holster and said is this what I have been searching for all these years. He then took his weapon and threw it on the ground and said you are not worth killing, and rode away on his horse.
That movie reminds me of all the valuable time, energy and money wasted, hating. Hating will put wrinkles in your face, but it won’t take them out. Hating will give you high blood pressure. Hating will give insomnia. Hating will ruin your appetite. The person you hate has no problem with any of the above. Now guess who is the one most miserable. The aura of a hateful person keeps people at a distance; even animals can sense unpleasantness.
Have you ever gotten up in the morning and tried to remember you were supposed to be angry about something and couldn’t remember what it was? Well if you did, that’s good. A person who hates has no trouble remembering the object of their hate simply because hate is always at home.
Hate finds a home where there is an absence of love.
Hate finds a home where there is an absence of compassion
Hate finds a home where there is an absence of sympathy.
Hate finds a home where there is selfishness
Hate finds a home where there is bitterness
Hate finds a home where there is jealousy and envy.
Hate finds a home where there is an unjustified sense of fear
Hate finds a home where there is a feeling of inferiority
Can you imagine eighty eight years of wasted time, energy and money spent hating? There are many more out there waiting to explode.
Don’t give hate a home tell hate there is no room available
*The Rev. N.T. Pitts Pastor is a retired pastor living in Eatonville, Florida
12. CLERGY FAMILY CONGRATULATORY NOTICES:
- The Swearing-In Ceremony for Yolanda A. Bruce, Esq. was recently held at the State Attorney’s Office in Orlando, FL where she works as Prosecutor.
We cordially invite you to share this occasion via the Internet:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xqPS6ruldXs
Her brother, Derek Bruce, Esq., continues his legal profession launching Edge Public Affairs, LLC, Orlando. Visit the website www.edgepublicaffairs.com.
Yolanda and Derek are the children of Gloria and the late General Officer/Presiding Elder Yale Benjamin Bruce, Sr.
Congratulatory responses can be sent to their proud mother:
Mrs. Gloria Bruce - brucegs@bellsouth.net
- Six AME students awarded graduate degrees by the United theological Seminary, Dayton, Ohio
The United Theological Seminary in Dayton, Ohio awarded four doctoral degrees to students who are clergy in the African Methodist Episcopal Church. In addition to the persons who graduated with their Doctor of Ministry degrees, one other member of the African Methodist Episcopal Church graduated with a Master of Divinity Degree and another person graduated with a Master of Theological Studies Degree. The graduation exercises were held on May 30, 2009.
(1) The Doctor of Ministry Degree:
The Reverend Dr. Ethel Cox Cato, Out-Reach Minister and Coordinator at the Greater Allen AME Cathedral, Queens, New York, Men-to-Men (1st Episcopal District): Telling the Stories Calling Forth Christian Men to Make a Difference
The Reverend Dr. Lanel D. Guyton, Pastor, St. Paul AME Church, Hamilton, Bermuda (1st Episcopal District), Transformation and Transition: Empowering the Church Towards Creating Relevant Ministries for Today and Tomorrow
The Reverend Dr. Otis J. Gordon, Jr., Pastor, Warren AME Church, Toledo, Ohio (3rd Episcopal District), The Design, Implementation and Evaluation of a Model for Spiritual Formation for Men at Warren AME Church
The Reverend Dr. Charlotte Ann Blake Sydnor, Pastor, Shorter Chapel AME Church, Franklin, Tennessee (13th Episcopal District), The Collaborative Role of Church Leadership in Empowering a Disenfranchised Community
Congratulatory messages may be sent to: cbsydnor@aol.com
(2) The Master of Divinity Degree:
The Reverend Stephanie Jeannie Ransom Upshaw, South Ohio Conference, 3rd Episcopal District of the African Methodist Episcopal Church
(3) The Master of Theological Studies:
The Reverend Karen Leigh Fox, South Ohio Conference, 3rd Episcopal District of the African Methodist Episcopal Church
"May God who has poured the love of Christ into their hearts by the Holy Spirit guide and guard them on their pilgrim way in serving the Church in times like these."
- Congratulations to Damian Tremayne Horne of Bethel AME Church of Franklin, Indiana. "Tremayne", the son of the Rev. Pamela Jones Horne, graduated from the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff (UAPB) on Saturday, May 9, 2009, with a B.A. in Mass Communications-Broadcast Journalism. While at UAPB, Tremayne was the tenor section leader in the internationally renowned Vesper Choir; and he was voted the UAPB 2009 Male Vocalist of the Year. As the Vesper Choir Tenor section leader he sang throughout U.S. and Italy, including at the Vatican. In addition to being a very active part of campus life (founding member of UAPB chapter of Phi Mu Alpha, student government, Kappa Alpha Psi) Tremayne also faithfully served at Greater Ward AME Church Pine Bluff as an affiliate member (drummer, intermittent Sunday School teacher, Children's sermon presenter, choir). Other accomplishments: Steward at Bethel Franklin, IL; student leader-mentor for incoming freshmen, student camera man-hired by UAPB to film sporting events, UAPB tv/radio journalist, ESPN student worker, To God Be The Glory!
Congratulatory responses can be emailed to his proud mother:
The Rev. Pamela Jones Horne who is the pastor of Bethel AME Church in Franklin, Indiana – REVPAME@aol.com
13. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
We regret to share news of the passing of Mrs. Vera M. Pierson, the wife of the Rev. Dr. Harry D. Pierson, a retired pastor in the 4th Episcopal District. Mrs. Pierson was a member of Franklin A.M.E Church in Niles, Michigan. She was a devoted pastor's wife and served in the Women's Missionary Society in Michigan, Indiana, Illinois, and Iowa.
Mrs. Pierson passed on May 17, 2009. Surviving family includes her husband the Rev. Dr. Harry D Pierson, their children, Tony (Irene) Johnson of Concord, CA, Angela Pierson-Davis of Aurora, CO, Sabrina (Tim) Langford of New Albany, IN, Aletha Palmer of Savannah, GA, and April (Marcus) Bray of Niles, MI.
Expressions of sympathy may be sent to:
The Rev. Dr. Harry D. Pierson and family
1424 Woods Edge Drive
Niles, Michigan 49120
Or condolences may be emailed to Rev. Dr. Harry D. Pierson: hdp1424@sbcglobal.net
14. 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
AMEC Clergy Family Information Center
Email: Amespouses1@bellsouth.net
Phone: (615) 837-9736
Voice Mail: (615) 833-6936
Fax: (615) 833-3781
Cell: (615) 403-7751
15. 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.
