THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER Online

7/31/2009

THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER ONLINE ENGLISH EDITION (7/31/09)

7/23/2009

THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER ONLINE ENGLISH EDITION (7/23/09)

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 – WE ARE BUSY CHURCH, AND THERE IS NO TIME TO REST, BECAUSE BLESSED PEOPLE ARE…:

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

Summer is a busy season for the African Methodist Episcopal Church, and this summer is no different. This is the season for the Christian Education Congress; and what some districts call the Christian Education and Leadership Congress (CELC).

In addition to Christian Education and Leadership Congresses, AME Churches across the Connection have had, and are having Vacation Bible Schools, homecomings, friends and family days, family reunions, men’s days, women’s days, District Conferences, Sunday School Conventions, the General Board Meeting / Bishops’ Council in New Orleans, Episcopal District Planning Meetings, the Connectional Biennial Lay Meeting in Little Rock, and the AME-SADA Annual Founder's Award Gala in September.

All of these activities are “sandwiched in” between the spring and fall series of annual conferences, the General Conference Commission, the Church Growth and Evangelism Conference, Founder’s Day in February, the Turner Theological Seminary's 116th Founder's Day, the Global Development Council (GDC) Executive Board Meeting, and the Ministries in Christian Education Meeting.

AMEs are busy people and that’s a good thing.

When we “complain” or hear people “complain” about how busy all of us are and how busy, we, in the AME Church, are; we, in reality, are not complaining, because being busy is a good thing.

I used to hear my Grandmother Eva Price say, “An idle mind or idle hands is the devil’s workshop.” Young people most often get in trouble when they have little or nothing to do. Local churches that are active in their local communities have more viable ministries than churches that isolate themselves and who posture themselves in a survival mode. Active congregations, busy about the Master’s work and about evangelism change lives and impact the larger community. Local churches that focus upon raising budget money, paying the pastor’s salary, and growing a choir have little impact beyond the walls of their building or beyond their property line.

I heard Dr. Louis G. Harvey say, “Blessed people are busy people” and when I heard him say that, it really put my busy life in perspective. I came to understand and appreciate that being busy was a blessing and being blessed required some action on my part to be a blessing to others. And so, when we say that we are busy, we should do it, not complaining, but rather in the spirit of praising God for the work and responsibility God gives us. When we are busy it means that God has enlarged our borders (I Chronicles 4:10). Blessings are not meant to be bottled and hidden; blessings are to be shared.

All of the meetings held by the AME Church are held for a purpose. Meetings are held to conduct the business of the Church, to provide knowledge and guidance, to increase ministerial efficiencies, to educate, to provide spiritual growth, enhance morale and provide encouragement. Connectional meetings are great venues for fellowship and for providing and exchanging information and ideas for ministry.

But, one of the most important meetings that the AME Church holds is the Christian Education Congress because it is probably the most effective feeder for ministry; along with the Sunday School Convention, if the Sunday School Convention is well-planned and supported by pastors and the laity. My call to ministry was fertilized and finalized at the Sunday School Convention that was held at Bethel AME Church in Bryn Mawr, Pennsylvania in the mid-fifties. I didn’t tell anybody, but that’s when it happened. Youth meetings are important for our youth and for sustaining the ministry of the Church.

The Christian Education Congress or (CELC) reaches and inspires more young people than any other meeting. I am always inspired when I attend one of those meetings or hear about those meetings; to see and hear about excited and inspired young people. I remember my own excitement.

Last night, I attended the 13th Episcopal District Christian Education and Leadership Congress that is being held in Murfreesboro, Tennessee and seeing the hundreds of excited young people who had arrived in buses, vans, and automobiles assembled for the glory of God and their chaperones who were already worn out and the announcement about the midnight curfew and the invitation for the youth and their chaperones to join in a silent walk at 6 a.m. the following morning; and with that announcement the quiet that prevailed in the auditorium. The 100-voice youth choir and the congregation that took up every seat in the Convention Center auditorium was indicative of the preparation of very busy clergy and laity of the 13th Episcopal District led by Bishop Vashti Murphy McKenzie and Episcopal Supervisor Stan McKenzie. The sermon last night, delivered by the Rev. Dr. Lance Watson, the pastor of St. Paul Baptist Church in Richmond, Virginia was dynamic, inspiring and appropriate for the occasion. His sermon taken from Hebrews 12:1-2, entitled, “You are Expected to Win” had the rapt attention of both young and old. He spoke about Christians being heirs and the strategies to combat failure. I am sure that some seeds for ministry were planted and all that is needed is for local churches to “water” and tend to the “seeds.”

This editorial is not a message about the 13th District because I know that the episcopal leadership teams in all of the other episcopal districts have equally dynamic and spiritually-focused Christian Education Congresses. The point is, that in the midst of all that is going on in the African Methodist Episcopal Church; the financial struggles we face, and how busy all of us are, with all of our meetings; we take time for our youth. They are the AME Church of today. If we take care of our youth today, our youth will take care of our Zion today; and in the days to come.

Yes, we are a busy people, we are a busy Church, but as Dr. Louis Charles Harvey said, “Blessed people are busy people.”

2. READER RESPONSE TO EDITORIAL AND OTHER ISSUES:

- To the Editor:

RE: AME Bishops and General Officers Take Salary and Operational Cuts for the Next Four Years:

Greetings, this information will be on my notice boards in, and around the charge.

We had a symposium where we had different speakers teaching the community around us especially the youth about saving at this critical time in our history. Yes, we believe in God who blesses in abundance but we need also to be practical. I am proud to be an AME.

God bless our Bishops and the General Board for the wise decision.

The Rev. Ntiti Jacob Sefatsa
The Republic of South Africa

- To the Editor:

RE: AME Bishops and General Officers Take Salary and Operational Cuts for the Next Four Years:

I am not surprise that the AME Church has stepped up to the plate in a leadership role in this time of financial crises.

I am convinced that God will bring us through.

Mrs. Mary Mills

- To the Editor:

The Christian Children’s Fund

Do you know of the fraud and abuse allegations made against this org?
I have been a faithful donor for over 30 years. I did not know in 1994 there was a serious investigation into fraud and abuse of funds. The Christian Children’s Fund has never promoted a Christian education since it's inception in the early 70s. The organization changed its name to "The Children's Fund" on July 1, 2009.

Today I received an Annual Report on my sponsored child. She is the third child I sponsored in a community in Togo, West Africa. I read that she attends a school of the Koran on Fridays and Saturdays. I bless her very much, but I cannot support an Islam-based education system when there are Christian feeding/education programs needing this help. I have decided to withdraw my funds. I will research and find a valid Christian organization.

The African Methodist Episcopal Church is a very generous religious organization. Our Sons of Allen and Women’s Missionary Society both support a Christian Children’s Fund child.

I will be making an announcement in church and encourage their disengagement as well.

I mention this to the TCR should any other AME church organizations and members who might be unaware as I was.

*Sister Nadine Rhodes-Marsh is a Licentiate at Bethel AME Church, Leesville, Louisiana

Steward, Shorter Chapel AME Church, Franklin, Tennessee

3. THE AME CHURCH IS A GLOBAL CHURCH:

When articles and notices are sent to The Christian Recorder from Episcopal Districts 14 – 20 please keep in mind, that those of us in the United States and in other countries may not be familiar with those areas. When cities are listed, please include the country because some overseas districts encompass more than one country. When a city is listed readers of The Christian Recorder might not know in which country the city is located.

A reminder to those of us in the United States in Episcopal Districts 1 – 13; when writing articles, please be cognizant that The Christian Recorder readers are located all over the world and, likewise, they may not be familiar in which state some cities are located and may not be familiar with the postal abbreviations of states in the United States. Please spell out the full name of a state, e.g., Maine instead of ME.

3. THE NAACP AND ITS CENTENNIAL CONVENTION 100 YEARS: BOLD DREAMS – BIG VICTORIES:

Special Report to The Christian Recorder by Paulette Coleman, Ph.D.

Convention Overview

A rousing version of “God Be with You Till We Meet Again” concluded the Centennial Convention of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) on Friday July 17, just after 12:00 noon. When Vice Chair Rosalyn M. Brock struck the ending gavel, 5,000 adult and youth delegates, alternates, observers, and friends began their return journeys home. Without any doubt, they were re-committed and re-energized to continue the struggles in their local communities to eliminate racial hatred and racial discrimination. The NAACP is still necessary, in spite of claims that the United States is now a post-racial or post-civil rights nation. Yes, we celebrate the election of Barack Hussein Obama, as the nation’s 44th President and the first African American, but President Obama’s victory does not mean that race as an issue has been vanquished. The celebration stops short, however, when on almost every social indicator black-white disparities persist. As President Julian Bond noted in his address to the Centennial Convention, “Almost a quarter of Black Americans live below the poverty line as compared to only 8.6 percent of whites. Infant mortality rates are 146 percent higher for blacks; chances of imprisonment are 447 percent higher; rate of death from homicide 521 percent higher; lack of health insurance 42 percent more likely the proportion with a college degrees 60 percent lower. And the average white American will live 51/2 years longer than the average black American.”

Stirring oratory; melodious music; excellent advocacy training in education, criminal justice, housing, etc; exceptional presenters; productive business sessions; a diversity job fair; and numerous sponsored celebratory events were all a part of the NAACP’s 100th national convention. Youth delegates met in concurrent “youth only” sessions, but were also integrated into the plenary sessions and other parts of the convention as presenters and program participants. Politicians and government officials including Sen. Charles Schumer, Sen. Christine Gillebrand, Rep. Charles Rangel, Rep. Gregory Meeks, Gov. David Patterson of New York and Gov. John Corzine of New Jersey, New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg, and Thomas Vilsack, USDA Secretary were among those bringing greetings or speaking at the Convention. Michael Steele, the first African American to be elected Republican National Committee Chairman, also addressed the crowd and pledged to “move beyond doing outreach to building coalitions…” that will sustain the growth of the African American middle class and “bring out of poverty those left behind.”
The African Methodist Episcopal Church Well Represented at the NAACP Centennial Convention

I am pleased to report that AMEs had a more visible presence at this Centennial Convention than had been the case at other recent NAACP national conventions. The late Rev. J. R. Williams (pastor of AME churches in the 5th and 13th Episcopal Districts) served for many years as the NAACP National Convention Organist until his death. Today, Ms. Kia Heath (2nd Episcopal District) is the Chief of Staff for NAACP President & CEO, Benjamin Todd Jealous. Ms. Heath is the daughter of the late Rev. Eleanor Bryant-Graham and the niece of Bishop John R. Bryant.

Dr. Alma Martin, an officer at Bethel AME Church in Harlem and president of the NAACP New York City Branch, had prominent roles throughout the convention presiding at several events and serving on the host committee. The Rev. Jo’An L. Owings pastor of Mt. Zion AME Church (1st Episcopal District) gave the invocation at the Clarence M. Mitchell, Jr. Memorial Lecture Luncheon. Among the AMEs attending this convention were Mrs. Dolores Thompson (1st Episcopal District); Presiding Elder Thomas Hughes (4th Episcopal District) along with his mother and sister who are members of Bethel AME Church (1st Episcopal District); the Rev. Reginald Jackson, pastor of St. Matthew AME Church (1st Episcopal District); the Rev. Alphonso Sherrill, pastor of Bethel AME Church (1st Episcopal District); the Rev. Garland Pierce Associate Director of Christian Education (National Council of Churches) and ministerial staff member at Bethel AME Church (1st Episcopal District); and Dr. Paulette Coleman (13th Episcopal District).

Bishop John R. Bryant, the senior bishop of the AME was the featured speaker, at the Religious Affairs luncheon on Monday, July 13th. The Rev. Melvin Hughes, pastor of St. Luke AME Church – Harlem (1st Episcopal District), gave the invocation at this luncheon. In addition to his challenging message, The Kingdom Requires More from the Church than Our Worship, Bishop Bryant also presented a check to the NAACP on behalf of the AME Church with donations from the Bishops of the AME Church and others in addition to the fundraising efforts of Dr. Alma Martin for a total of $40,000. This generous contribution was also acknowledged during the Gospel Extravaganza on Wednesday evening.

Using word imagery, Bishop Bryant conveyed the brutality and dehumanizing character of slavery. Following are excerpts from the sermon:

Five hundred years ago ships began leaving the west coast of Africa across the Middle Passage to the islands of the Caribbean, and the shores of North and South America. These were not just ordinary trading ships, but trading ships with human cargo in their bellies. These human beings were stripped from their ancestral homeland, their families, their culture, their history, their names, and even their personhood. They were redefined as less than human and treated as chattel. In spite of all of this, the slave traders made one mistake. They let one name get out and that was the name of JESUS. Things happened when the names of Jesus was used. Jesus gave His head, heart, spirit, and body for the church, the company of the committed, the ecclesia. The name of Jesus kept us from going crazy. Because we could call on the name of Jesus, we learned how to pray through our dire circumstances and difficult situations. We learned how to bind and loose and how to sing until the power of the Lord came down. We learned how to preach with punctuated power. But with all of that, God reminded them and us that more is required than worship. God chose the church to be his liberating presence on the earth.

For 100 years the NAACP with the help of the church has helped our people deal with systemic racism. Anything having to deal with people, the Church is required to be involved, but also to be the headlights.

In Matthew 17, Jesus picked three - Peter, James, and John – whom he “took up” not to heaven but for encouragement. On November 4, in Grant Park, people began to weep, fell in each other’s arms, and laughed. That wasn’t heaven, but it was encouragement. President Obama, Oprah Winfrey, and Robert Johnson have all made significant contributions, but don’t build your life around them, they are tokens of encouragement that the Lord has sent among us.

There is a war going on and the underclass is becoming even more impoverished. Our community produced more doctors, dentists, and lawyers percentage wise 40 years ago than we do today. The 9th Ward of New Orleans still looks today like it did 5 years ago.

So what if you got your praise on? So what if your mass choir is the bomb? There is a war going on and God sent me to say “you are my warriors.” Come out of the sanctuary and fight for our children and our communities. When there is only praise, it no longer turns God on. Am I a soldier of the cross, then I must fight, if I would reign supported by God’s word.

Bishop Bryant’s provocative message was enthusiastically received with thunderous applause and many “Amens!”

The Rev. W. R. “Smokie” Norful, Jr., a product of AME parsonages (12th Episcopal District) joined Hezekiah Walker and Mary Mary as headliners for the Gospel Extravaganza. Smokie Norful is a Grammy award winning singer, songwriter, and musician.

Leadership Change and New Directions

Chairman Bond officially announced he would not be seeking re-election as Board Chair in 2010 and it is not clear who the successor will be. Among those rumored to be in contention for the position are Rosalyn M. Brock, a 10-year veteran of the NAACP National Board of Directions serving as Vice-Chair and Chair of the Convention Planning Committee and also a member of the NAACP Special Contribution Fund Trustees during that time and Rev. Wendell Anthony, President of the NAACP Detroit Branch, the Association’s largest local unit.

Benjamin T. Jealous in his first address to the national convention as the 17th President and CEO of the NAACP reminded the delegates that the NAACP is a human and civil rights organization that fights for the human rights of all people. He also reported that the NAACP is back in the black financially; membership is up online and in the field; and this Centennial Convention is the largest in the Association’s history. Among the Association’s top priorities are outlawing racial profiling everywhere; abolishing the death penalty; investing in research; improving communications; increasing the use of technology; organizing communities; and changing the position of young people in the movement. Successful litigation, the hallmark of the NAACP’s civil rights victories, will be combined with more vigorous grassroots organizing to address the barriers to full participation of all citizens in American society. The virus of racism has mutated in our lifetime according to President Jealous and in the 21st century it manifests itself in the “school to prison pipeline.” Citing January 20, 2009 as a moment of transformative possibility, Jealous asked all NAACPers to join him, “I have dream. I know the first step. Won’t you come and join me?”

President Jealous introduced “Smart and Safe” a new NAACP initiative based on the premise that public safety is a civil and human right. He also emphasized that citizens have a role to play in ensuring equal justice and safer communities. Association members were urged to use their cell phones or other electronic devices to photograph acts of police misconduct or abuse and to e-mail them to the Rapid Reporting System at the national office. The national office will then follow-up with appropriate action.

Presentations of Past Executives

All of the living executives who served the NAACP gave enthusiastic presentations at this historic convention, with one exception, Ben Chavis. Former President and CEO Ben Chavis’ absence from the convention was glaring as was the total silence during the Centennial Convention regarding his tenure. Those who previously served as the national leaders of the NAACP and their terms in office follow: Benjamin Lawson Hooks – Former Executive Director – 1977-1993; The Late Earl Shinhoster – Interim President & CEO - 1994-1996, represented by his widow and brother; Kweisi Mfume – Former President & CEO – 1996-2004; Dennis C. Hayes, Esq. – former interim President & CEO – 2004-2005 and 2007-2008; Bruce S. Gordon – Former President & CEO – 2005-2007; and Benjamin Todd Jealous – President & CEO – 2008-Present.

Freedom Fund Dinner/Spingarn Awards Presentation

The Freedom Fund Dinner and Spingarn Awards Presentation is always a highlight of the NAACP National Convention. This year the excitement and anticipation surrounding the dinner was heightened, because President Obama was the keynote speaker and longtime NAACP National Board Chair, Julian Bond was honored as the 94th recipient of the Spingarn Medal.

In his speech, President Obama acknowledged the poignancy of the moment to have him as America’s first African American President addressing the NAACP’s Centennial Convention. As a beneficiary of the NAACP's work, President Obama credited the visionary founders of the Association and all of the unsung freedom fighters since that time as paving the way for his presidency. President Obama was more prospective rather than retrospective in his remarks. He placed a great emphasis on education as essential to improving the lives of all children. He said the state of schools is an American problem, not an African-American one. "You know what I'm talking about. There's a reason the story of the civil rights movement was written in our schools. There's a reason Thurmond Marshall took up the cause of Linda Brown. There's a reason the Little Rock Nine defied a governor and a mob," Obama said. "It's because there is no stronger weapon against inequality and no better path to opportunity than an education that can unlock a child's God-given potential."

Yes, this historic convention ended on a high note with gratitude and thanksgiving for the big dreams and bold victories that have shaped the NAACP’s history and successes to this point, but with a new determination to continue to work on until the end racial hatred, bigotry, and discrimination are eliminated.

4. THE DETROIT FREE PRESS ENDORSES AME PASTOR, THE REV. ANDRE SPIVEY FOR DETROIT CITY COUNCIL:

The Rev. Andre Spivey is the pastor of St. Paul AME Church in Detroit, Michigan has been endorsed by The Detroit Free Press.

The Detroit Free Press says, “Andre Spivey's 16 years of Christian ministry have given him both a profound sympathy for Detroit's impoverished families and an appreciation for the practical necessity of using limited resources effectively.”

5. THE REVEREND EDWARD L. BUTLER EULOGIZED BY BISHOP C. GARNETT HENNING SR.:

The Reverend Bruce Lambert Butcher

On Friday, June 26, 2009, the Third Episcopal District gathered to send the Reverend Edward L. Butler home to his final resting place. Reverend Butler passed as a result of an accident that took place in his home.

The Rt. Reverend Bishop C. Garnett Henning Sr. called the processional to order at 11:00 am.

The Bishop lead the family into the sanctuary as the Reverend L. Anthony Gatewood, Presiding Elder of the Columbus District, read the opening sentences. The Reverend Carl Terry offered the prayer. The Reverend Ronald Glenn read the Old Testament lesson and the Reverend Brenda Gregg read the New Testament lesson. Words of comfort were given by the Ohio Conference Missionary President, the Ohio Conference Lay President, Quinn Memorial Church, Payne Seminary Alumni, Ecumenical Clergy, A.M.E. Clergy, family member, and special friend, the Reverend Andrew Newberry. Mrs. Ernestine Henning, Third Episcopal District Supervisor of Missions also had words of comfort for the family.

The theme that permeated throughout centered on how God used the humorous personality and wit of Reverend Butler. Everyone who knew Reverend Butler knew he was always looking for laughter and humor and could use this as an effective tool for ministry. Many who spoke shared their own story of Reverend Butler and his love of laughter. Bishop Henning sounded on this theme as well. Bishop stated, “If you can’t laugh at my funeral then don’t come.”

Bishop Henning took for his text, II Corinthians 5:1; he preached from the subject, “Our Human House and Our Heavenly Home.” He spoke about how frail the human house is in contract to the strength and security of our heavenly home. He shared that Reverend Butler was aware of this and placed his trust in God early on in life. Bishop went further to say Edward Butler trusted God all the way and we who are believers will rejoice along with Reverend Butler on that “great getting up morning.”

After Bishop Henning finished preaching, the Reverend Paul Bigsby pronounced the benediction and the family and congregation recessed from the church, singing, “When We All Get to Heaven.”

We thank God for the life and legacy of the Reverend Edward L. Butler. He will be missed by all who knew him.

6. A POINT OF PERSONAL PRIVILEGE:

*The Rev. Dr. Nathan A. Dixon

Having just recently returned from the African Methodist Episcopal Church General Board and Council of Bishops in New Orleans, let me first, commend Bishop William Phillips DeVeaux, Sr., on his capable presiding; congratulate Bishop Carolyn Tyler Guidry, the President of the Council of Bishops; and commend the 8th Episcopal District for serving as fine hosts and hostesses.

Having sat in on several commission meeting sessions, I thought to myself, where is the meeting taking place, where we as a connectional church, are addressing the mass exodus of hip-hop youth and young-adults, ages 16-40?

While I’m not convinced that the General Board / Council of Bishops is the correct venue to address this issue, I strongly believe that there needs to be a strategic plan put in place across the connection to address this undercurrent of a significant exodus that is happening right before our very eyes.

As a denomination, the African Methodist Episcopal Church is blessed that there exists congregations across the connection that are thriving and have not experienced the mass exodus of hip-hop youth and young adults ages, 16-40; however, I assure you, that this mass exodus is taking place in African Methodism as well as in the other traditional mainline denominations. Here in Lansing, Michigan, several United Methodist congregations have closed their doors, because of a diminished membership and the lack of youth and young-adults to continue the leadership of the church.

In the book, From Jay-Z to Jesus: Reaching & Teaching Young Adults in the Black Church, Dr. Ralph C. Watkins and the Rev. Benjamin Stephens, III provides their readers some alarming and eye-opening statistics:

“Only three out of ten twentysomethings (31%) attend church in a typical week. Conversely, close to 70 percent don’t attend church. The research shows that church attendance bottoms out during the late twenties when the vast majority of students have transitioned from education to the workforce. Just 22 percent of those ages twenty-five to twenty-nine attended church in the last week. Many twentysomethings are reversing course after having been active church attendees during their teenage years. – From high school graduation to age twenty-five there is a 42 percent drop in weekly church attendance and a 58 percent decline from age eighteen to age twenty-nine. More than eight out of ten twentysomethings (80%) said that their religious faith is very important in their life, and nearly six out of ten (57%) claimed to have made a personal commitment to Jesus Christ that is still important in their lives (Stephens and Watkins, 2009).”

If we were to visit many of our churches across the connection, I believe we would find these statistics to indeed be true. “The church that fails to develop its young-adults [and youth] is a church that will not have a future (Stephens and Watkins, 2009).”

I strongly believe, that now is the time to sound the alarm, and it’s time for us to sit down at the common table and begin to dialogue about this crucial issue. For years, the church has taught its youth and young-adults to mimic the adults and their behavior in the church. Many pastors are trapped between a commitment to our fore-parents and an emerging generation that is shaped by Facebook, Twitter, Myspace, BET, and MTV.

As we seek to reach out to the youth and young-adults who are leaving our churches, I feel that one of the first things we must learn is who these youth and young-adults are. Those ages 16-40, make up two different generations. Those born 1965-1986 are known as the hip-hop generation or the post-soul generation.

“…prior to the 1960s the black church was the epicenter of all cultural, social, and political activity. It was a soul culture. You see all musical forms except hip-hop come out of the vernacular of the faith-based community we call, the church. If you talk about spirituals, blues, jazz, R&B, and gospel, it all comes from the church (Moss, TAAP, 2006-2007).”

The hip-hop generation, (those born 1965-1986) is now a part of the working class and middle-class and are parents to what Dr. Ralph C. Watkins refers to as hip-hop² - (those born 1987-2007). The major difference between these two generations of youth and young-adults is that hip-hop squared is a generation that is farther removed from the African American church; and have experienced breakdown of both family and community. Many from the hip-hop generation have left the traditional church because the church presented itself as exclusive and not open to allowing variety.

The Young People’s Department (YPD) has served, for many years, as the organization that helps to train up our youth and young-adults and continues to assist in producing youth and young-adults with a bright future ahead of them. However, I wonder today if YPD is still the answer for our youth and young-adults or is there a need for some re-tooling and re-structuring?

Many of our young-adults, when they become too old to remain in the YPD, find themselves with few options. They join (RAYAC) Richard Allen Young Adult Council, which in my opinion, struggles to be relative to our young-adults. They join either the Women’s Missionary Society or the Lay Organization, which again, in my opinion, are organizations that struggle to be relative to our youth and young-adults; or they go into ministry. Why is this? Is this because they are truly called by God, or simply because there is nothing else for them to do?

As we seek to further develop our youth and young-adults, while the work begins in our local churches, I believe that there should be a mechanism or venue on the connectional level, where we as AME’s, might initiate open and honest dialogue. Some questions that need to be answered are, “How might we address the mass exodus that is taking place in many of our churches across the connection? How do we go about getting those youth and young-adults involved who may never attend a connectional meeting? How can we create a venue that will be responsible for addressing the mass exodus of youth and young-adults? Is YPD still relevant to meet the needs of today’s youth and young-adults or is it in need of a paradigm shift?” etc.

In relation to Moses and Joshua; they lead was differently. One way is not any better than the other; in fact, different types of leadership are needed in today’s church.

“For Moses, it was doo-wop. For Joshua, it was hip-hop. For Moses it’s a whoop. For Joshua it’s a holler. For Moses, it’s a letter. For Joshua it’s email. For Moses it’s Aretha Franklin. For Joshua, it’s Alicia Keys. For Moses, it’s Coltrane. For Joshua, it’s Common. For Moses, it’s devotion. For Joshua, it’s praise and worship. For Moses, it’s dress up. For Joshua, it’s dress down [Come as You Are] (emphasis added). For Moses, it’s a hymnbook. For Joshua, it’s a laptop and projection screen. For Moses, it’s a radio. For Joshua, it’s the Internet. For Moses, it’s a board. For Joshua, it’s a ministry. Moses is low-tech. Joshua is high-tech… (Moss, TAAP, 2006-2007).”

Let me add one or two of my own… For Moses, it’s a telephone call. For Joshua, it’s a text message. For Moses, it’s a board meeting. For Joshua, it’s a conference call. For Moses, it’s Youth Sunday. For Joshua, it’s Youth Ministry. For Moses, it’s a choir. For Joshua, it’s a praise team. Moses feels comfortable staying inside the box. Joshua feels freedom outside of the box, expressing him/herself through spoken word, mime ministry, liturgical dance, drill/step team, etc. The fact of the matter is, Moses was not threatened by Joshua, and Joshua was not trying to push Moses aside. What is needed is an intergenerational ministry. Joshua has to respect Moses’ history, and Moses has to respect where Joshua’s direction.

It is up to the church to reach out to the youth and young-adult who have a future in leading our church to the next level. “Without question, the greatest potential of the Black Church today resides in the group we call ‘young adults’ (McCray, 1992).” There in fact must be an open and honest dialogue between the elders and the youth and young-adults in order that the youth and young-adults might understand and appreciate the tradition, and in order that the elders might understand and appreciate the vision of the today’s youth and young-adults.

We must play an active role in fostering relationships between the elders and youth and young-adults of our Zion, preparing them to both receive the baton, and release the baton of leadership. We need youth and young-adults in place to receive the baton of leadership, and committed to lead our church in the future; but likewise, we need elders who are willing and faithful to let go of the baton, trusting our youth and young-adults to run the race, even if they run the race differently!

Historically the church, like hip-hop, spoke to political issues, social dilemmas, injustices of the community, and race concerns. Something happened in the Reagan era where both entities consumed themselves with the many capitalist struggles caused by the many cuts by the Reagan-Bush regime. However, during the post-Reagan era, following the financial struggles at the rise of the crack and black suburbia, both entities became consumed with capitalistic gain (Chang, 2005).

Mega pastors in many forums have taken on the same mystique as rap moguls. The difference is however, that the hip-hop community has, by and large, captured the youth and the church has struggled to reach the hip-hop generations. The question as to who will be relevant hip-hop or the black church; right now, it’s too close to call.

Youth and young-adults today in AME churches across the connection are tired of being set aside and treated as if they are the church of tomorrow. In a real sense, they desire to be active participants in the life of the church, today in order that they might use their current and innovative ideas.

As I conclude, I believe that the bigger question that needs to be considered is, “What will happen if we continue to ignore this issue?” If the African Methodist Episcopal Church does not hear the alarm that is sounding loudly but rather maintains the status quo, “where do we see the church 10 – 20 years from now?”

One thing the Church cannot dispute is the fact that the average ages of the majority of our congregations are 60+. Who will the Church call on twenty years from now to financially sustain the work of the Connectional Church? Who will the Lay Organization call on twenty years from now to make sure that the Laity has a voice, and to make sure that the Laity is working alongside the clergy to further advance of our Zion? How can we be assured that we will have thriving congregations 20 years from now if we are not addressing the mass exodus of our youth and young-adults ages 16 – 40 now? ?

If African Methodism does nothing and maintains the status quo, I’m afraid that we would end up being reactive instead of proactive. It is a fact that hip-hop remains very influential in the United States among our youth and young-adults. It is also a fact that these hip-hop youth and young-adults are capable and willing to use their God-given gifts to further advance the mission of Christ and vision of African Methodism. The seven last words of a dying church are, “We’ve never done it that way before.” Let’s flip the script, and instead, recite the first nine words of thriving church - “I never knew we could do it like this!”

A church that ceases to change ceases to exist. It’s now up to the church to unite and engage this culture of youth and young-adults, because if not… we will lose the next generation.

“We are called to all nations to make disciples: “And Jesus came up and spoke to them, saying, ‘All authority has been given to me in heaven and on earth. Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations.’” (Matthew 28:18-19). Nations are made up of generations, cultures, subcultures, and we must speak into them all to carry out the mission given to us by the Lord (Smith & Jackson, 2005).”

*The Rev. Dr. Nathan A. Dixon is the pastor of Trinity AME Church, Lansing, Michigan

7. THE SECOND EPISCOPAL DISTRICT SAID, YES YOU CAN - CHOICES - YOUTH CONGRESS AND DISTRICT PLANNING MEETING:

The Rev. Glenda Murray-Kelly

The Second Episcopal District (SED) of the A.M.E. Church under the leadership of Bishop Adam Jefferson Richardson, Jr., Presiding Prelate and Mrs. Connie Speights Richardson, Episcopal Supervisor along with Sister Robin Porter Smith, Director of Christian Education hosted the SED District Planning Meeting and Christian Education Youth Congress with Clergy, WMS and Lay on July 12-July 15, 2009. The meeting was held at the Hampton Convention Center, Hampton, VA.

The SED Planning meeting was hosted by Rev. Andre' Pierre Jefferson and Bethel AME Church in Hampton, VA. Presiding Elder Larry Hinton served as the event coordinator. The Rev. William A. Dyson, Sr. served as Host Presiding Elder and The Rev. Chester Morris, as Associate Presiding Elder. In the parking lot of the Convention Center were vans from the various local churches within the SED. It was amazing to see such participation from the five Conferences.

As a matter of record, by Monday July 13, almost 1,100 youth had registered to be a part of this great occasion with a total registration for both events being 1,991. On the cover of the program booklet for the Youth Congress were the words, "Got A Lot on Your Mind? Yes, You Can! Choices! The workshops were based on four words: Get Ready (Preparation); No Looking Back (Perseverance); I'm About 2 Win (Opportunity); and, Above the Influence (Choices).”

"O thou' in whose presence my soul takes delight, on whom in affliction I call, My comfort by day and my song in the night, my hope, my salvation, my all. The Youth Conference and the District Planning meetings were combined because of the economy and to ensure that the District as a whole will “keep it real”. We want our youth to be on their best behavior and we have put together a program that will enhance their Christian education experience. We must keep in mind the vision and mission of the A.M.E. Church. We must also maintain our focus on the 7 point vision for the SED which includes: (1) ministry to youth and young adults, (2) ministry to men, (3) ministry to incarcerated, (4) ministry for educational support: Theological Scholarships and AMEC Institutions, (5) ministry for missions support: beyond the shoreline, (6) ministry for health and personal development and (7) Nehemiah Ministry: Physical and monetary support for small congregations," said Bishop Richardson.

In attendance were Bishop Paul J. M. Kawimbe of the 17th Episcopal District and Dr. Willie Clayton Glover, candidate for Connectional Lay President, and a member of the 3rd District. Dr. Jawanza Kunjufu founder and CEO of African American Images, The Reverends Tony Lee and Bill Lee and the Rev. Brent Edward shared their preaching gifts during the meeting. The Rev. Dr. Cain Hope Felder facilitated a workshop on "The Past and the Present."

The highlight of the eve of July 13th was when the Rev. Dr. Jamal Bryant, pastor of Empowerment Temple preached from the text Genesis 14:11-16, "The Last Man Standing." Dr. Bryant defined the moment of being the last man standing in the form of examples and situations using the late Pop Star Michael Jackson as a matter of reflection of comparison and contrast.

"Chapter 14 is where the first war and conflict begin in the Bible. There is more war than peace. The chapter is about four Kings, "The Sayers of Darkness" and "The Son of Evil." Both sides of the kings were evil and both sides were destroyed. Yet, on June 25, 2009 there was an announcement on television that Michael Jackson is dead. A sign reading the "King is Dead" and I'm still here. What in the world is going on? The King of Comedy is dead, the King of Pop is dead, the King of Rock and Roll is dead and the King of Soul is dead but the King of Kings is still alive" said Dr. Bryant.

Dr. Bryant called the entire congregation of over 2,000 participants to lift their hands to surrender unto the Lord. We must preach and pray for salvation. The sinner’s prayer was prayed over every participant under the sound of his voice and the youth were invited to the altar. Approximately 139 youth came and surrendered their lives unto the Lord.

There were a series of component meetings for the adults such as: The Board of Examiners, Minister's Spouses/Widows/Widowers + PKs, Lay Organization, YPD, Women in Ministry, RAYAC, Christian Education, Nehemiah Ministry, Debutante-Masters Commission, Women's Missionary Society, Clergy Caucus, Evangelism, Family Life Ministry, Social Action, Sons of Allen, Theological Scholarship Fund and Health Commission.

While the adults were in their component meeting, the youth participated in the Praising God though the Arts workshops: Step, Mime, Choir, Liturgical Dance and Rap. Youth and adults attended age appropriate workshops: Get Ready! No Lookin' Back! I'm about 2 win! The youth participated in Life Application workshops that included but were not limited to: Graphic Design, Medical Field, Law Enforcement, Culinary, Fashion Marketing, Psychology and the Legal field.

The meeting gave memoriam to Connectional and District leaders who have died and included Bishop Vernon Randolph Byrd.

The conference was a work of art. The preaching, teaching, workshops and the activities provided to the attendees were first for Christ and second to none.

8. THE 52ND ANNUAL LAY MEETING 12TH EPISCOPAL DISTRICT:

*Ms. Patricia Roberts

On June 18th - 20th, 2009 under the direction of Bishop Samuel Lawrence Green, Sr., Presiding Bishop and Mr. David Fielding, President of the 12th Episcopal District Lay Organization convened for its 52nd Annual Lay Convention. The gathering was held at the Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church (AME) located in Little Rock, Arkansas where the Rev. Dr. James H. Thomas is Pastor. The Comfort Inn and Suites located downtown Little Rock provided the accommodations. A brief synopsis of each day’s events is as follows:

Thursday June 18, 2009

The 12th Episcopal District Lay President Mr. David Fielding called the Executive Board Meeting to order. He presided with great anticipation and expectation. All facets of the 12th Episcopal District and business of the Connectional Lay Biennial were put in their proper electronic wheel.

The opening business session was called to order at 1:30 pm by 1st Vice President, Sis. Dorothy Henderson. A heartfelt and genuine welcome was extended by the Arkansas Conference President, Brother Harold Martin. President David Fielding proclaimed the opening of the 52nd Annual Convention of the 12th Episcopal District Lay Organization. He expressed that the first 6 rows would set the boundary for this convention. In his annual address he called the roll of the gallant soldiers gone from our rank, they are as follows: Dr. W. B. Wynn, Mrs. Betty Lindsay and Bro. Adolphus Daniel. He informed us that the state of the Episcopal District Lay Organization has moved to the next level under the leadership and support of Bishop Samuel L. Green, Sr. and asserted that “The best is yet to come.” We were blessed as Chaplain Bro. L.C. Williams led us in a spirit filled and thought provoking devotion and Bible study entitled: “God’s Plan for the Ages: The Eternal Triune God.” The 1st report of the registration committee was discussed and yielded 106 laity, 61 clergy who registered prior to the conference start and 8 laity and 10 clergy who registered on site for a grand total of 114 laity and 71 clergy. This is a new high for this conference and gives credence to the statement “The best is yet to come.” The Presiding Prelate Bishop Samuel L. Green Sr. greeted us with his illuminating smile and that reassuring phrase “God First.” Hearing him speak dismissed all anxiety and proclaimed a successful hosting of the Connectional Biennial Convention in July. After receiving several committee reports as well as the conference president’s report the 1st Business Session was adjourned.

In the evening the worship and communion service was held at Bethel AME the host church. What a wonderful spirit filled time. We were led in the singing of praises by the Arkansas Convention Choir under the direction of Mr. Jason Bivens. Immediately following Pastor James Thomas delivered a powerful message entitled “With unlimited possibilities. “ This message ignited a powerful surge within our souls and after experiencing the Holy Ghost’s presence we were treated to a scrumptious repast by the host and hostesses of Bethel AME.

Friday June 19, 2009

Lay leadership Ministry/Workshops

Rev. Banks set the stage for the 1st workshop by prioritizing the Lay Leadership Ministry of the local church. The list goes in this order; Steward, Trustee, Class Leader and Stewardess. His objective was to raise the level of awareness regarding the purpose, duties and responsibilities of each ministry. Emphasis was placed on attending, participating and supporting each Local, District and Episcopal conference and or meeting, especially if you hold a leadership position. He was very motivational and inspired everyone to make a difference at their local church.

The 2nd workshop was presented Joyce B. Vaughn entitled Community Outreach. She explained three major points; access the needs, take time to pray, and research the project as outlined in the Word

The 3rd workshop was a three panel discussion entitled, “Enhancing our Christian Growth through Prayer, Patience and Perseverance,” presented by the Rev. Curly Roberts, Ms. Patricia Roberts and Mrs. La Ryssa Blunt. This workshop centered on the importance of prayer patience and perseverance (The 3 P’s) and the specific requirements for an effective Christian Life; Humility, Faith, Righteousness, and Obedience.

We were taught that through patience, we must be consistent in trusting and honoring God; knowing that he will not abandon you. One should wait, listen and watch God work. God is a forgiving God He continues to give us chances to get it right with him. Perseverance is a combination of both prayer and patience. The question “How bad do we want it?” was asked and the response was answered in three steps; “You must envision it, back it up with determination and motivation, and work until you get it.”

At 7:30 pm Friday evening the Lay Person of the Year Gala Banquet was held at the Comfort Inn Hotel Grand Ballroom. The banquet featured a musical that was both inspiring and uplifting. The dinner was superb, very delicious. Both Bishop Sam and Mr. David Fielding presented plaques of appreciation to the following outstanding and dedicated living legends:

Mr. Albert Yarbough, Oklahoma Conference; Mrs. Warnette Barnett, Central Methodist Oklahoma, Mrs. Alice Northful, Northeast Arkansas Conference; the Rev. Willie Ray Northful pastor of Saint John in Pine Bluff and candidate for Bishop received the plaque in honor of his aunt; Mr. Edward Wells, South Arkansas Conference; Mrs. Johnnie Booker, West Arkansas Conference; Mrs. Helen Davis, Arkansas Conference; and Dr. Dorothy Henderson, Central Arkansas Conference

At the conclusion of the presentation Bishop Green gave us some very encouraging and inspiring words to take our organization to the next level and he ended the session in prayer.

Saturday June 20, 2009

At 7:00 am the Edward Swift Prayer Breakfast was held. It was very inspirational and spirit filled. The voices raised in prayer to our God in prayer enhanced our spiritual growth. We then reflected on the love ones and our memories were refreshed during the memorial service where we honored those who gave themselves diligently and untiringly for the cause of the 12th Episcopal District Lay Organization. May God allow their contributions to forever remain in our memories.

The closing worship service under the leadership of the Rev. Larry Banks was spiritual and uplifting. We raised our voices and hands in praise to bless the Holy Name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. We were all anxiously awaiting the powerful message of our own Bishop Samuel L. Green and after a beautiful introduction by Presiding Elder Clarence V. Boyd Sr. our waiting and anticipating were finally over. We were not at all disappointed by the electrifying, forceful and powerful message of our energetic Bishop entitled “The Funeral of a Dead Church.” The text came from Revelations Chapter 3 verses 1-6. He taught us the various ways to keep the church alive and encouraged all of us with the text; he that has an ear, let him hear what the spirit saith unto the churches. We must listen to the Spirit of God and know that God is in the blessing business.

We were blessed by streams of guests who marched enthusiastically through the Halls of the Lay Convention. Guests included:

- Mr. Raymond Frazier-Senator Blanch Lincoln’s Community Affair Specialist; Mr. Milton Ezell- Outreach Director of U.S. Congressman Mike Ross; Dr. & Mrs. Willie Glover- 3rd Episcopal District Candidate for Connectional Lay President

- Mr. Johnny Tellis Jr. – 3rd Vice President of Connectional Lay 10th District Candidate for re-election; Mrs. LaRyssa Blunt- The Workshop Specialist, Hot Springs, Arkansas; Mr. Jesse L. Burns- President of Connectional Lay 11th District Candidate for re-election; Mr. Thomas Edward Greene- 1st Vice Connectional Lay 9th District Candidate for re-election; and Mr. Richard Bowden Sr. – Candidate Connectional Lay Financial Secretary of 9th District.

Giving Honor when Honor is Due

The 52nd Session of the 12th Episcopal District Lay Organization Convention wishes to especially thank Pastor James H. & Mrs. Naomi Thomas along with the officers and members of the Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church for your kind hospitality. We are much obliged to the 7 Conference Branch President’s Mrs. Patricia Davenport-Oklahoma, Mrs. Jackie Weary- Central Northeast Oklahoma, Mr. Sam Williams-East North East Arkansas Conference, Dr. Dorothy Clay Henderson- Central, Mrs. Martha F. Simpson- South, Mrs. Patricia Roberts- West Arkansas and Mr. Harold Martin-Arkansas Conference. We would also like to thank all Episcopal District and Conference Lay Officers led by Mr. David Fielding and Mr. Jessie Burns Connectional Lay Presidents, Loyal Pastors and Presiding Elders. We extend a heartfelt thank you to our Resident Bishop the Rev. Samuel Lawrence Green, Sr. Suffice it to say servant of God and all of his extended family, “God First.” As the 12th Episcopal District we go forth under his impeccable leadership.

*Ms. Patricia Roberts is the 12th District Lay Director of Public Relations

9. SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT FROM DOWNTOWN CHINGOLA, AME CHURCH, SOUTH WEST ZAMBIA CONFERENCE, 17TH EPISCOPAL DISTRICT:

Greetings in the name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ!

On behalf of the Downtown Chingola AME Church family, my wife Connie and I take pleasure in informing you that we are rapidly approaching the final days of a very exciting season of four (4) Days of 2009 International Preach-A-Thon Conference. Theme: “Being Empowered to Reach the Unreached and Unchurched.”

The Conference will be held from Friday night, July 31 until Monday, August 3, 2009.

The “Preach-A-Thon Conference” is a divine convocation, where a series of carefully selected bishops, presiding elders, evangelists, apostles, teachers and pastors drawn from the global body of Christ will minister the uncompromising Word of God, one after the other, to the people and children of God non-stop. Take note that our confirmed Conference guest preachers are drawn from within and outside of the territorial boundaries of the 17th Episcopal District.

Friday, evening, July 31st 2009 the conference opens with an “Overnight Gospel Music Extravaganza”. This will be held from 19:00 hours to 06:00 hours the following day. We are featuring Pastor Irrady, Genesis, Elias, and Milton as guest artists. A senior Pastor and Gospel music Director from Chililabombwe will be speaking to praise teams, choirs, quartets, duets, soloists and the assembled congregation. Confirmations from several churches and ministers are still being received.

The Conference venue is Chingola Basic School Mini and Main Halls.

Saturday afternoon, August 1st 2009, the “Keynote Empowerment Celebration Worship Service” will be held from 14:00 hours to 18:00 hours. This is a grand Official Opening and our Chief Guest Preacher is a great man of God, himself a senior pastor, from Rustenburg in the Republic of South Africa. Coming with his dear spouse, he presides over a number of churches in the Garankuwa District. He is the Rev Lekubela S. Moobi.

Sunday, August 2nd 2009, there will be two “Sacred Empowerment Celebration Services,” one in the morning and the second in the afternoon respectively. Mrs. Miniver Phiri from United Methodist Church will be the main preacher during the morning service. Speaking in the afternoon on the same day is a pioneer church planter. He is a Zambian clergy based in Botswana running the fastest growing ministry in his area.

Monday, August 3rd 2009; we shall have two “Grand Finale Empowerment Closing Celebration Services” in the morning and afternoon respectively. We have lined up men of valor who were among the first to embrace Senior Pastor Mwandu of Downtown AME Church as a he planted the new work in the town centre of Chingola. These are Bishop Joseph S. Kazhila and the Rev Winner Simbeye respectively.

*Please take note that on Day Four (4) Monday, August 3, 2009, our recommended attire will be gold shirts, T-shirt on black skirt or trousers and Jacket in both sessions. Immediately following the close of the afternoon service, we shall have cash Empowerment Grand Finale Dinner, time at 18:30 hours to 20:30 hours. This is a forum that automatically earns participants an express entry into the hall of grand finale Dinners with our guest speakers.

We pray that you plan now to be a part of this special celebration! It is the goal of the Downtown AME Church family to execute plans for these days of excellence. Be present and bring your family and friends every day for all services.

In order to assure that these days will be one to remember, your participation is needed! Once again, the Officers and members of the Downtown AME Church thank you in advance for your prayers, participation, and support. We look forward to seeing you and celebrating with you on these very special days.

In Kingdom Service,

The Rev Royd Mwandu
Mobile phone, +260-966-786632
P O Box 11125, Chingola, Zambia
http://ourchurch.com/member/s/StThomasZambia

10. HOUSE SUBCOMMITTEE TAKES FIRST CONGRESSIONAL VOTE TO END CRACK COCAINE SENTENCING DISPARITY:

WASHINGTON – The House Judiciary Subcommittee on Crime, Terrorism and Homeland Security voted on an historic markup today of the Fairness in Cocaine Sentencing Act of 2009, a bill that would result in the elimination of the unjust and discriminatory disparity between crack and powder cocaine sentences under federal law. H.R. 3245, sponsored by Representative Robert Scott (D-VA), removes references to “cocaine base” from the U.S. federal code and takes the welcome step of removing the five-year mandatory minimum sentence for simple possession of crack cocaine.

More than two decades ago, based on assumptions about crack which are now known to be false, heightened penalties for crack cocaine offenses were adopted. Sentences for crack are currently equivalent to the sentences for 100 times the amount of powder cocaine, and the impact falls disproportionately on African Americans. Today, policymakers from both judicial and executive branches of the federal government, including former President George W. Bush, agree that Congress must pass legislation to eliminate the disparity between crack and powder cocaine sentencing.

The following can be attributed to Michael Macleod-Ball, Interim Director of the ACLU Washington Legislation Office:

“Today’s vote is an historic first step in ending a 20-year injustice. Lawmakers must act now to eliminate the disparity between crack and powder cocaine sentencing by treating both forms of the same drug equally under federal law. Congress alone has the authority to put a stop to the crack-powder disparity and long mandatory minimum sentences.”

Contact: Linda Paris, (202) 675-2312; media@dcaclu.org

11. THE TRAGEDY OF CARRYING UNEARNED GUILT:

*The Rev. N.T. Pitts

I am sure that you will agree that each of us has been and even now guilty of something. I don’t know of anyone who can truthfully boast of being guilt free. However the guilt may not be as devastating as those who are carrying “unearned guilt.”

You may not realize it but there are a number of people who are burdened with guilt that they should not be carrying. Carrying guilt takes a toll.

Throughout my ministry I have encountered many parishioners whose lives have been affected, ruined and destroyed all because they were carrying guilt that they did not deserve to be carrying. A few committed suicide because they could not shake the load of guilt.

The sad thing about all of this is that some parents have ways of making their children feel guilty. And children have ways of making their parents feel guilty. Siblings have ways of making one another feel guilty. It is cruel to try to “dump” guilt on another person. Some try to vindicate their guilt by “dumping” it on someone else.

During my ministry I have counseled individual who, at the passing of a love one said, “If only I had been here.”

My question to them was, “What would you have done? What do you think you could have done to make a difference?” In each case, they had no logical answer, but yet they go on feeling guilty. Some never shake the guilt even when they are shown that the guilt is not theirs.

Cain earned his guilt when he murdered his brother. The brothers of Joseph earned their guilt when they sold him all because they were jealous.

I have seen parishioners whose personality changed; their, lifestyle changed and new habits developed after experiencing the lost of a loved-one. They carried guilt that was not earned, but dumped on them by some insensitive, cruel, and uncaring individuals; most often by their own family members.

We have church members sitting in the pews every Sunday with an “overload” of guilt. Some would not dare mention it to anyone. They wrestle with it, day after day. You can see the expressions on their faces that they are wrestling with unresolved guilt. Pride keeps them from seeking help and they wouldn’t dare consult another family member. I have seen some cases where it appeared that some people felt good in seeing others go through the agony of unresolved guilt.

Guilt makes people sick. Physicians often cannot diagnose the cause of some people’s illnesses; that I am quite certain are guilt related.

Unearned guilt will cause insomnia, nervous breakdown, high-blood pressure, isolation of family and friends, lost of appetite and other related illnesses.

How does one shake the feeling guilt? By coming to a realization that they were not at fault and that they had no control over what happened. It is not an easy thing to do, to just drop guilt. It is a painful process. Clearing one’s mind calls for meditation and prayer in sincerity.

It is time to “dump” the guilt and lighten your mental load. There is an open invitation we often sing, “There is a fountain filled with blood drawn from Emmanuel’s veins. And sinners plunged beneath that flood lose all thy guilty stains.”

I pray for those who are carrying “unearned guilt,” and that they seek help by consulting one whom they can trust and confide.

Guilt is a serious malady, so please don’t take it lightly, seek help before it’s too late.

*The Rev. N.T. Pitts is a retired AME pastor who resides in Eatonville, Florida

12. CLERGY FAMILY CONGRATULATORY NOTICES:

- It is with great pride, and in the joy of Jesus that we announce that Mrs. Aimee Anderson, the wife of Dr. Derek Anderson gave birth to their son Cory Isaiah Anderson on Saturday, July 11, 2009. Dr. Derek Anderson is the Connectional President of the Richard Allen Young Adult Council and is Treasurer of the AME Church Inc. Board of Trustees. Mrs. Aimee Hurst Anderson is the Ohio Annual Conference YPD Director. Aimee is the daughter of the Rev. Mac C. Hurst, pastor of Grant Chapel AME Church in Amite, Louisiana and Mrs. Brenda Hurst, Louisiana Conference WMS President.

Congratulatory messages can be emailed to mrdha143@yahoo.com or can be mailed to:

The Anderson Family
P.O. Box 09262
Columbus, Ohio 43209

- Kenneth Tyzion Christmon was born Saturday, July 11, 2009 at 12:50 pm, 6 lbs 12 oz to the Rev. Kenneth Charles Christmon and the Rev. Kimberly Majors Christmon. He joins his brother Jackson Isaiah Christmon. The Rev. Kenneth C. Christmon is the pastor of St. Paul AME Church in Indianapolis. Kenneth Tyzion Christmon is also the grandson of the Rev. Kenneth A. Christmon and Mrs. Carolyn Christmon. The Rev. Kenneth A. Christmon is the pastor of Providence AME Church in Indianapolis.

Congratulatory messages can be sent to:

1825 E. 25th Street, Indianapolis, IN 46218

Or emailed to: Kadmit1@aol.com

13. GENERAL OFFICER FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

Service Arrangements for Dr. John W. P. Collier, Jr., Retired Secretary-Treasurer of Missions

Atlanta, Georgia Services:
Friday, July 24, 2009
Visitation: 5:00 p.m.
Funeral: 6:00 pm
Flipper Temple A.M.E. Church
580 Fair Street, SW
Atlanta, Georgia 30314
Phone: (404) 522-5020

The Rev. Augusta H. Hall, Jr., Pastor
Bishop E. Earl McCloud, Jr., Officiating
Bishop William Phillips DeVeaux, Sr., Eulogist

First A.M.E. Church - Atlanta, Georgia (Atlanta, Georgia home church of Dr. John W. P. Collier, Jr.)
The Rev. Larry Ervin II, Pastor

Professional services entrusted to:

Murray Bros Funeral Home
1199 Utoy Springs Rd SW
Atlanta, Georgia 30331
Phone: (404) 349-3000
Fax: (404) 349-5001

Rahway, New Jersey Services:

Saturday, July 25, 2009
Family Visitation: 2:00 p.m.
Funeral: 3:00 p.m.
Ebenezer A.M.E. Church
253 Central Avenue
Rahway, New Jersey 07065
Phone: (732) 382-0541

The Rev. Louis P. Attles, Pastor
Bishop Richard Franklin Norris, Officiating
Bishop Frank Curtis Cummings, Eulogist

Professional services entrusted to:

Jones Funeral Home
247 Elm Avenue
Rahway, New Jersey 07065
Phone: (732) 381-6981
FAX:(732) 381-5164

The family respectfully request in lieu of flower, that contributions be made in memory of Dr. John W. P. Collier, Jr. to "God's Share Ministry", a Help Ministry that benefits Missions at Home and Abroad.

Contributions can be mailed to:

1235 Regency Center Drive, SW
Atlanta, Georgia 30331
Phone: (404) 691-3052

Cards and other expressions of sympathy may be sent to:

Dr. Jacqueline Grant Collier and family
1235 Regency Center Drive, SW
Atlanta, Georgia 30331
Phone: (404) 691-3052

Please remember the Collier family in your prayers.

14. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

With sadness we announce the passing of the Rev. Curtis Francis, retired Presiding Elder of the Camden-Trenton District of the New Jersey Annual Conference, First Episcopal District of the African Methodist Episcopal Church.

Viewing: Friday July 24, 2009 - 9:00-11:00 a.m.

Funeral: 11:00 a.m.

St. Paul AME Church
1203 Harrison Avenue
Pleasantville NJ 08232

Eulogist:

The Rt. Rev. Richard F. Norris
Presiding Prelate, First Episcopal District

Internment:

Saturday July 25, 2009
New Allen AME Church
Franktown, Virginia (Eastern Shore)

Arrangements:

Greenidge Funeral Home
301 Absecon Blvd
Atlantic City NJ 08401
Telephone: 609-345-6305

15. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

We are saddened to announce the passing of Attorney Priscilla Green. Attorney Green was a member of the Judicial Council of the AME Church, died on Sunday morning, July 19, 2009.

We hereby inform you of the passing of the Rev. H.M. Mamabolo on the 12th of July 2009. He will be buried on the 21st of July 2009. The service will be held at the Agnes B. Hildebrand AME Church in Mabopane, the Republic of South Africa. He will be laid to rest at the Klipgat Cemetery.

The Rev. H.M. Mamabolo served the AME Church in the following capacities:

15th Episcopal District:
Cape Midlands: Langa AMEC as a pastor

19th Episcopal District:
North Annual Conference:
Pietersburg as a presiding elder
Lenyenye AMEC as a Pastor
FC James AMEC in Nylstroom as a pastor

West Annual Conference:
H.B. Senatle AMEC in Moletsane as a pastor

North Annual Conference:
North End District as a presiding elder
JE Hunter AMEC in Soshanguve as a pastor
Warmbarths District as presiding elder
Pretoria District as a presiding elder

The Rev. H.M. Mamabolo served under the following bishops:
1. The Rt. Rev. G.D. Robinson
2. The Rt. Rev. F. C. James
3. The Rt. Rev. J. E. Hunter
4. The Rt. Rev. D. G. K. Ming
5. The Rt. Rev. H. B. Senatle
6. The Rt. Rev. C. G. Henning
7. The Rt. Rev. A. J. Richardson
8. The Rt. Rev. J. L. Davis

The Rev. H.M. Mamabolo retired in 2003.

Family Contact Phone Numbers:
Sophia Mamabolo (wife) 082 688 6142
Esther Mamabolo (daughter) 073 130 8360
Maki Manyaneng (daughter) 073 169 8908

Condolences may be emailed to: mathildam@ananzi.co.za

Submitted by the Rev. Dr. Frederick C. Harrison

16. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

We regret to inform you of the passing of the Reverend Dr. Samuel L. Bradford, Sr. Rev. Bradford superannuated in November 2008, having given lengthy service to the African Methodist Episcopal Church. He served in both the Fifth and Fourth Episcopal Districts. His last pastorate was Bethel AME Church in Beloit, Wisconsin.

Service arrangements for the Rev. Dr. Samuel L. Bradford, Sr:

Saturday, July 24, 2009
Family Visitation: 10.00 a.m.
Funeral Service: 11:00 a.m.
Greater Pentecostal Church
6080 Florissant Avenue
Saint Louis, Missouri 63136
Phone: (316) 389-9332

Professional services are entrusted to:

Austin A Layne Mortuary Inc
7239 W Florissant Avenue
Saint Louis, Missouri 63136
(314) 381-6900 Phone
(314) 381-6321 Fax
(888) 254-8259 Toll Free

Condolences and expressions of sympathy may be sent to:

The family of the Rev. Dr. Samuel L. Bradford, Sr.
C/o Austin A Layne Mortuary Inc (see address above)

17. 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

18. CONDOLENCES TO THE BEREAVED FROM THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER:

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