THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER ONLINE ENGLISH EDITION (10/1/09)

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 – TWO SIDES TO EVERY STORY:

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

I received several interesting email messages from pastors and laypersons in response to last week’s editorial that addressed the issue of when it was appropriate to refer a pastor to the Ministerial Efficiency Committee.” I use the word, “interesting,” because it was reminder that there are, at least, “two sides” to every story.

Last week’s editorial pointed out that bishops in times past almost always referred pastors who failed to make a “round” report to the Ministerial Efficiency Committee. It was a sobering reminder of the importance of pastors being faithful to a pastor’s annual conference financial responsibilities. The editorial went on to explain that it appeared from what is stated in The Book of Discipline of the African Methodist Episcopal Church 2008 that a bishop not only may, but if he or she follows the law, is obligated to refer a pastor to the Ministerial Efficiency Committee if his or her annual conference report is deficient. A presiding elder who had several pastors that failed to submit a “round” report was also subject to scrutiny.

The editorial stated that it appeared, from what is stated in The Book of Discipline of the African Methodist Episcopal Church 2008, that a pastor might also be referred to the Ministerial Efficiency Committee for failing to win souls and convincing others to come to Christ because winning souls to Christ and baptisms are an indication of a pastor’s evangelistic efficiency (inefficiency) or evangelistic incompetence.

Let me say that referring a pastor to the Ministerial Efficiency Committee should not imply guilt; the MEC determines pastoral efficiency or pastoral incompetence. If a pastor has done all in his or her power to address or deal with a negative pastoral situation and the negative situation remains the same, there would be no reason to assume that the pastor is incompetent.

There are two sides to every story.

The other side of the story

I received one response that pointed out that in a case of a pastor being referred to the Ministerial Efficiency Committee for failing to win souls and convincing others to come to Christ, that it was possible that there were those who were already members of the church who repented; were encouraged and spiritually renewed by the preaching, witness and ministry of the pastor and the local church and who, publically or privately, reaffirmed their commitment to Christ; but that action is not reportable on the Pastor’s Annual Report. The writer pointed out that the ministry of some pastors who reported zero accessions and zero baptisms may not accurately reflect the pastor’s ministry. That’s a great point.

Another pastor questioned what she saw as annual conference excessive expenses, such as requiring or encouraging delegates attending the annual conference to be housed in the most expensive hotels. She pointed out and questioned the obligation, in this austere economic environment, of feeding the “out-of-town guests” who attend the annual conference, especially when they are fed at an expensive restaurant or at a hotel. When pre-offerings, opening and closing offerings, some of which are as much as $100, are added to a $700 or more lodging cost, the annual conference can be an expensive experience for the smaller churches and pastors; especially for those churches that are struggling to raise their assessments.

Another writer pointed out that a presiding elder and a bishop should be sensitive to the fact that some pastors may not have their budget because some churches believe that they can use the budget as a method to get rid of a pastor. That’s the other side of the story.

It was also pointed out that right-sizing churches should be a priority because changing demographics have precipitated significant membership increases in some churches, but other churches have had a significant decrease in membership. That’s the other side of the story.

A pastor shared that his aging church’s air conditioning unit and furnace needed to be replaced. He pointed out that winter is approaching and the church needs to repair the heating and air conditioning units. He asked, “So, do we make a “round report” and ignore the needed replacement of the heating and air conditioning units, which is a necessity if we are going to conduct worship services and do ministry or do we make a partial report and repair the heating and air conditioning units?” So, what’s the answer?

A great question

The issues raised in the dilemma of pastoral efficiency are complicated and, at the least, show that extensive pastoral training is needed. Too often our pastors are not provided with rigorous realistic recertification training requirements and often pastors are only as effective as the pastors who trained and mentored them.

Are there solutions?

Yes. The messages and other comments received should remind all of us that there are, at least, two sides to every issue.

What can be done?

First, the issues are complex. I am afraid that there are no easy answers. The first observation that I would make is that the pastorate is not the place for “lone rangers.” The pastorate is not an “individual sport,” it’s a “team effort.” I suspect that some pastors receive their pastoral appointment and “hunker down” at their charges, with minimal interaction with their peers. Pastors need to be friends with other pastors, they need to interact with each other, trust each other and exchange ideas and strategies with each other.

For instance, a pastor who is facing economic, social or spiritual struggles should partner with other pastors in his or her presiding elder district, his or her annual conference, or his or her episcopal district. Pastors need to know their limitations and when to seek assistance. I would imagine that a presiding elder or a bishop would be perturbed if they were hearing for the first time coming up to the annual conference that a pastor was having difficulty with raising his or her assessments.

Raising the budget is a team effort and pastors should be working together and the presiding elder should be a part of that team; no, the presiding elder should be the leader of the presiding elder district team. Simply put, the presiding elder is responsible for training, motivating, mentoring, and ensuring the success of all pastors in the presiding elder district. The presiding elder should be given the power (resources) to motivate the team.

In a like manner, the presiding bishop is responsible for training, motivating, mentoring, and ensuring the success of all the presiding elders in his or her episcopal district. If the team fails, the leader failed.

A layperson wrote, “Some districts should follow the lead of the 6th Episcopal District, which already shortened the length of its annual conferences; and the 2nd Episcopal District, which will shorten its 2010 series of annual conferences.” There are also two sides to the story of shortening annual conferences; as Bishop Adam J. Richardson explained, “When I was a pastor, I used to complain that we could do the work of the annual conference in half of the time and cut out a lot of it. When I became a bishop and saw all that was required to be done at the annual conference, I realized that shortening the annual conference was ‘easier said than done.’ He went on to say, “But, we are going to shorten the 2010 series of annual conferences.”

Yes, there are solutions. Bishops, general officers and connectional leaders of the Church must be realistic and cognizant of the fact that there is something going on in the economy and leaders at all levels must be prepared to make needed adjustments and readjustments as necessary.

Yes, there are two sides to every story, and we, as a denomination, at all levels, need to work together as teams and at all levels, we must be reminded that “Leaders create the climate for teamwork.”

Yes, there are two sides to every story, and there are solutions. And, we all must never forget that in African Methodism, everyone, at all levels, is accountable; local church officers, pastors, presiding elders, connectional officers, general officers, and bishops, and it is incumbent upon all of us to function competently, if we want to remain a part of the team.

Yep, there are two sides to every story.

2. BISHOP NORRIS SPEAKS AT THE CONGRESSIONAL BLACK CAUCUS PRAYER BREAKFAST:

By Angelena Spears
Philadelphia Conference Reporter

Bishop Richard Franklin Norris, the presiding prelate of the First Episcopal District, was the chosen speaker for this year’s Annual Prayer Breakfast for the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation (CBCF).

The breakfast was held on Saturday, September 26 at Walter E. Washington Convention Center in Washington D.C., and was attended by over 3000 people.

A host of over 100 AME preachers and presiding elders traveled to Washington to hear Bishop Norris preach in this “historic and distinguished” setting. They came in great numbers from the First Episcopal District, in particular – representing New York, Western New York, Delaware, New England, New Jersey, Philadelphia and the Bermuda Annual Conferences.

Other AME Bishops who also were at the breakfast were: Bishop Adam J. Richardson (2nd Episcopal District), Bishop Vashti M. McKenzie (13th Episcopal District), and Bishop Carolyn T. Guidry (8th Episcopal District).

Bishop Norris preached with uninhibited power and used as a subject, “A Relevant Voice,” that was taken from Isaiah 40:1-6. In a passionate delivery, Bishop Norris took full advantage of the opportunity to challenge our political leaders. He singled out the 42 members of the Congressional Black Caucus, and told them they must have a relevant message; not just for their constituents, but for all people.

Within the message he also pointed out the need for relevant discussions for legislation that will impact healthcare and education reform.

The Rev. James P. Baker, Jr., pastor of Morris Brown AME Church, Philadelphia was a coordinator for the program, and delivered the invocation.

For nearly two decades, the Prayer Breakfast has been promoted as one of the most well attended and successful events in the nation’s capital. Among the many distinguished guests in attendance were Dr. Dorothy I. Height, long-time leader of the National Council of Negro Women, and the Rev. Jesse L. Jackson, Sr.

Rev. Baker said he has been attending the prayer breakfast for the past 14 years, and to his knowledge, Bishop Norris is only the second AME Bishop to be asked to deliver the message. Bishop Vashti McKenzie, the first female consecrated bishop in the AME Church, was the keynote speaker in 2006.

Last year’s speaker was the Rev. Dr. Floyd H. Flake, pastor of Greater Allen AME Cathedral of New York and also a former congressman. Other keynote speakers have included Bishop T.D. Jakes and Bishop Paul Morton.

In addition to hearing the powerfully preached message, attendees at this year’s breakfast were blessed in music ministry by Grammy Award Winner Yolanda Adams, and the very gifted Pine Forge (PA) Academy Choir, led by director Neil Thomas.

While in Washington, Bishop Norris also attended a special reception given by U.S. Representative Chaka Fattah of Pennsylvania.

Bishop Norris is the 116th consecrated bishop in the AME Church. He was elected at the 2000 General Conference (46th Quadrennial Session) in Cincinnati, Ohio, and has led the First Episcopal District since June of 2004.

Earlier this year he was named chairman of the Trustee Board of Payne Theological Seminary, Wilberforce, Ohio.

He and his wife, Mother Mary Norris, have two adult sons: Richard II, a computer executive and accomplished musician, who serves as the music director of the First District; and the Rev. Marcellus Norris (wife, Dawn), who is the pastor of St. Paul AME Church, Cambridge, MA.

The Annual Prayer Breakfast was sponsored by the Coca Cola Company.

3. BISHOP RICHARDSON ANNOUNCES THAT THE 2ND EPISCOPAL DISTRICT WILL SHORTEN 2010 SERIES OF ANNUAL CONFERENCES:

Bishop Adam J. Richardson confirms that each annual conference in the 2nd Episcopal District will be shortened by one day. He said, “We are shortening the conferences by one full day. Rather than opening the conference on Tuesday night (a tradition in the 2nd Episcopal District), we will open on Wednesday at 10 a.m. I am trying to set an earlier time for Roll Call, a time-consuming exercise.” Bishop Richardson went on to say, “This is particularly critical in the 2nd District because more than 1600 persons will answer the rolls in five annual conferences. On average, that's 320 names per conference. To save time, we do not call the names of the preachers who are in the Board of Examiners.” The 2nd District is also looking to safe time by having pastors to answer the roll call electronically.

Bishop Richardson also observed that opening the conference in the morning could also create a problem for annual conferences because they normally get people into the conference at the opening that would not have to miss a day's work and lose pay. Opening in the morning could also affect those who sing in choirs, ushers, stewardesses and host church volunteers.

Bishop Richardson said, “It remains to be seen how this new paradigm will affect attendance and offerings. The attendance is usually pretty high in each conference. We will continue to close on Saturday mornings. We initiated this so that church doors won't be closed on Sundays while the pastor is away at Conference waiting on his/her appointment.” Bishop Richardson said that it was important for him that church doors are open for business on Sundays rather than having a big crowd at the annual conference because somebody just might have made up their mind to be saved, or renew their relationship with the Lord on the Sunday the pastor was away attending the annual conference. Bishop Richardson went on to explain that if the church doors are closed because everyone was away attending the annual conference, a seeker might decide to do his urgent salvation business at the church up or down the street.

4. THE GIFT OF LIFE:

*The Rev. Dr. Walter B. Johnson

It is with tremendous praise and thanksgiving to God that I write to share my testimony about a precious gift, a new kidney, and a second chance on life. In July, 2009, I was diagnosed with chronic renal failure and told that I would need a kidney transplant. I was placed on the waiting list for a kidney and put on dialysis until a kidney could be located. My daughter, Turquoise Johnson offered her kidney. My child, to whom I gave life, 25 years ago, blessed her father with a gift of love and life. Her kidney was a match and the kidney transplant was performed on Thursday, July 30th. We are doing well. The operation and recuperation process went so smoothly and quickly that even our doctors testify to the miracle of our recovery. My testimony and praise report begins with “I will bless the Lord at all times His praise shall be continually in my mouth.” I want to share the miraculous story of how God was present in the preparation, operation, recovery and recuperation of my recent health challenge with chronic renal failure, dialysis and a kidney transplant operation. Twice, in His infinite mercy and love, God has bestowed on me, the precious Gift of life. I want to tell the world about it and bless others in return for all the blessings bestowed on me.

Life is precious and good health is a priceless commodity, one which we often take for granted. I was no exception, even though, as I got older, I maintained the proper diet and exercise, trusting the medical expertise of doctors who said I was fine. Two years ago, I was diagnosed with hypertension; but, I still felt fine and would never have believed that a life threatening illness would shortly overtake my body. Last year, I met with a nephrologist, a specialist who deals with functions and diseases of the kidneys. Although I was surprised to learn that I had 10-15% kidney function, I never imagined that soon, my life was going to take a turn for the worst. I thought all was well, never realizing that the enemy was readying an attack on my body.

In April, 2009, during Holy Week, I was ready to speak a word for the Lord. I accepted four preaching engagements, literally back to back. On Monday, after preaching in Maywood, Illinois, I developed flu symptoms. The next day I was scheduled to preach and did. However, I was so tired and weak I could barely make it through to the end of service. Needless to say, I did not make the other preaching engagements. By Easter Sunday, I felt as if I had been “hit by a huge, eighteen wheeler truck.” I knew something was terribly wrong and asked my wife, Sandra, to take me to the emergency room. I was diagnosed as severely dehydrated and experiencing chronic renal failure. I was immediately hospitalized and placed on dialysis. I struggled mightily and emotionally with the words, “Reverend Johnson you need a kidney transplant!” I sought the counsel of my Bishop, the Right Reverend John R. Bryant about the status of my health and my desire to share, transparently, with my church family. With the Bishop’s, support and encouragement, I shared information about my health with my congregation, Greater Institutional A.M.E. Church, Chicago, Illinois. I was blessed, throughout this process, by the Bishop and my Greater Institutional congregation, who extended overwhelming love and support to me and my family. As spiritual leaders and shepherds, we often are afraid of being transparent before the people for fear that it might cause persons to respond differently to us. Nevertheless, I shared, knowing and trusting the fact that God had given me a condition and an opportunity to glorify Him through the testimony of my healing and restoration.

The transplant was to be performed at Northwestern Memorial Hospital, Chicago Illinois. I did not know how long it would take to secure a kidney. The average wait time is five to seven years – if the patient survives. Five persons volunteered to undergo blood tests for donor compatibility. They were my wife, Sandra; my daughter, Turquoise; two members from Wayman AME, my former church; and one from my current church, Greater Institutional AME. My daughter, Turquoise, underwent a battery of tests while I received dialysis three times a week, from 6 a.m. to 10 a.m. Through it all, I never questioned God. I accepted that He was using me for a purpose, remembering that the Bible says, “All things work together for those who love the Lord!” Two weeks before the end of July, I received word that my daughter’s kidney was a perfect match. My daughter has constantly said, “I love my Dad” and never wavered in her desire and commitment to donate a kidney to me. This gift was greater than all the combined gifts, birthday, Father’s Day, Christmas or any others that I have ever received! I thank God for this “Gift” of life! Twenty-five years ago, God gave me a precious gift of a daughter, Turquoise. I thank God for her. Twenty-five years later Turquoise gave me the gift of life, her kidney – such an unselfish gift of love!

Prior to my illness, I felt an urgent call to assist our people in the area of healthcare. I am acutely aware of the lack of healthcare information and services for African Americans. In an effort to educate, inform and serve this community, I have worked with others to sponsor health fairs and other health related activities and services. As a pastor in Rockford, I worked conjointly with the University of Illinois’ School of Medicine, to organize a group, known as the Black Healthcare Initiative Coalition. As the founding President and Director of this organization, I worked within the faith community to address health care needs and gain access for African Americans in Rockford. As pastor in two subsequent assignments, Wayman and Greater Institutional AME Churches in Chicago, Illinois, I have continued to feel the need and urgency to assist our people in addressing their healthcare needs. My illness has only intensified my commitment to spread the healthcare message.

As a pastor, who has suffered a serious illness and a miraculous recovery, I want to share and support those who are undergoing “troubles, heartaches, and pain.” Our ministry is about faith, hope, love, grace and mercy. I want others to know and believe that God still performs miracles in the midst of seemingly insurmountable circumstances; to know that God is a healer. I am a living, breathing, walking testimony to the miraculous healing power of an Almighty God. I want to bring this message of healing, hope and restoration to God’s people.

To God be the glory for the great things He has done and will do!

*The Rev. Dr. Walter B. Johnson is the pastor of Greater Institutional AME Church in
Chicago, Illinois

5. CIVIC LEADER DARBY, EDUCATOR LASH ELECTED TO SC-SIC BOARD OF TRUSTEES:

COLUMBIA – Charleston civic leader the Rev. Joseph A. Darby, Jr., and Greenville County educator Georgia A. Lash have recently been elected to the S.C. School Improvement Council Board of Trustees, Board Chairman Carlos Primus has announced.

Both were elected to three year terms on the Board, which is composed of 21 members from across the state and acts in an advisory capacity to the S.C. School Improvement Council, which provides services to more than 15,000 members of local School Improvement Councils in the state’s 1,100-plus K-12 public schools.
“Rev. Darby and Ms. Lash have a demonstrated passion for public education and the well being of our state’s future,” said Primus. “We are indeed fortunate to have their expertise and energy on our Board, and I look forward to working with them as the S.C. School Improvement Council provides much needed services to our schools, our children and our communities.”

A fourth generation minister with 32 years of pastoral experience, Rev. Darby is pastor of Morris Brown A.M.E. Church in Charleston, and serves in a variety of leadership capacities with African Methodist Episcopal church bodies. He is currently the President of the S.C. Christian Action Council and First Vice President of the Charleston Branch of the NAACP.

Rev. Darby previously served as a board member of the United Way of the Midlands, the Center for Religion in the South, the Columbia Branch of the NAACP, and was a member of the State Superintendent of Education’s African-American Achievement Committee and the Racial/Cultural Advisory Council of the S.C. School Boards Association.

He is also a 2002 inductee into the South Carolina Black Hall of Fame and a member of the Inaugural 2004 class of the Richland County School District One Hall of Fame.

Ms. Lash is a 23-year educator currently serving as Department Chair of Family and Consumer Sciences at Hillcrest High School in Simpsonville, where she has taught since 1999. She previously served as an educator in Ohio developing early childhood curriculum, planning and facilitating parent education workshops, and teaching career technology classes. Her professional career also includes over a decade of work in pharmaceutical sales and management.

She currently serves as Teacher Liaison for the Hillcrest High School PTSA and as Student Council Advisor at the school. A past board member of the Mauldin High School PTSA, she has also served as past chairperson and member of the Hillcrest Middle School SIC and is a past member of the Greenville Technical College Advisory Council.

Ms. Lash holds the Bachelor of Science degree in Home Economics Education from the University of Dayton and has pursued graduate studies at Cleveland State University, Kent State University and Furman University.

Located at the University of South Carolina’s College of Education, the S.C. School Improvement Council was established in state law over three decades ago to provide the member training, technical assistance, statutory accountability, and operational resources vital to the continued success of the community-based School Improvement Councils in each of the state’s K-12 public schools.

Tom F. Hudson, Director of Program Services, S.C. School Improvement Council; telephone: (803) 777-7658; email: hudsontf@mailbox.sc.edu

6. NEWS AROUND THE AME CHURCH:

- The AME liturgy is available in Spanish, and has been since 2006, and can be obtained on request by emailing Mr. John Thomas at jthomasiii@gmai.com. This is part of an ongoing project from the Global Development Council to provide translations of AME liturgy and documents in the various languages in which our congregants worship.

- The officers and members of Bethany AME Church, Yonkers New York hosted a pastoral anniversary celebration for the Rev. Wilfred D. Lewis and First Lady Coleen Williams-Lewis on their first wedding anniversary and the anniversary of Rev. Lewis’ first pastoral anniversary as pastor and the Lewis family as leaders of Bethany AME Church. Yonkers, New York. Both celebrations were observed together with the Rev. Dr. Alvan Johnson, presiding elder, as guest preacher. A reception was held in the Anna Jarvis Memorial Hall.

- On, Monday, September 28, 2009 at 7;30 pm the Louisiana ecumenical community held the fall board meeting worship service at Bethel AME Church in Baton Rouge, Louisiana where the Rev. Dr. Kelly is the pastor. Bishop Carolyn Tyler Guidry, prelate of the Eighth Episcopal District was the keynote preacher. The powerful message was entitled, "The Joshua generation." The church was “on fire” by the visitation of the Holy Spirit. The archbishop of Louisiana, several Roman Catholic bishops and other judicatory faith-group heads were in attendance. The service was a high time for African Methodism and for all who attended the worship event.

7. BRIGHT TEMPLE AME CHURCH, MATERO, LUSAKA LAUNCHES ANNUAL 21-DAY PRAYER AND FASTING:

Bright Temple AME Church, Matero, Lusaka launched their annual 21-day prayer and fasting period this morning, 1 October, 2009 at 10.00 am.

This is the third consecutive prayer and fasting programme sponsored by the congregation; led by the Rev Suzanne Membe Matale. The church has reaped both spiritual and numerical growth during these events. The church will be conducting prayers everyday for 21 days from 10.00 a.m. (1000 hours) to 4.00 p.m. (1600 hours).

We solicit prayers from fellow believers around the world for strength, wisdom and success. We are hopeful that members will be able to committee their time during this period. We have seen the hand of the Lord during these times and we pledge to continue this important part of our programme. We encourage other congregations in the AME Church family to dedicate a portion of the year to prayer and fasting.

The Rev Suzanne Membe Matale
suzannematale@hotmail.com, suzannematale@yahoo.co.uk; Tel: +260 21 224622 Fax +260 21 224308

Lusaka, Zambia

8. ACADEMIC CONCEPT OF THE TERM "AFRICAN-AMERICAN":

*The Rev Nadine D. Rhodes-Marsh

As a college professor of who teaches classes on diversity, I wanted to share an academic concept of the term "African-American". Although much African cultural identity was lost as the result of oppression and slavery, there are still many pan-African behaviors that survived through 400 years of oppression. These include kinship ties, social rules of interaction, musical tones and beat preferences, ways of being with one's mother, father, paternal and maternal family members, priorities, and world views that sometimes clash with mainstream American values. "Black" is a racial designation. There are "Black" people who immerse themselves in Mainstream American culture with no recognition or desire to participate in African-American culture. "Black" people come from all over the world (Jamaica, France [by way of Africa], England, Brazil, and even African countries.) But these black people may have little insight into the African-American experience. Therefore, African-American may be defined more in terms of an ethnic group with a common history than a racial group. This is a complex concept that Blacks of all origins might benefit from understanding. I am tired of Black people saying "I am not African-American; I was born in the USA, not Africa. If they were raised by a mama or a "Big Mama" who will "go upside their head" for disrespect, no matter who is watching, they are probably more African-American than they realize.

*The Rev Nadine D. Rhodes-Marsh, Pastor, St John AME Church, Monroe, Louisiana, USA

9. ANNUAL WELLNESS RETREAT FOR SINGLES, COUPLES AND MARRIED COUPLES:

St. Paul AME Church, Miami, Florida will be hosting its 1st Annual Wellness Retreat for Singles, Couples and Married Couples at one of the beautiful hotels in Miami for 4 days 3 nights. There will be workshops on better relationships within our community. The African American community has the highest rate of 70% non-marriages, single women, single-mothers, fatherless homes, divorce rate and high incarceration of black males.

This workshop is to try to teach and start and dialogue between men and women on how to stay in a relationship, when to get out of a relationship and putting GOD first in your life. We will be working with well-known pastors, and celebrity authors of the latest best-selling relationship books.

This event is for everyone and all ages to attend from all 50 states. We encourage you to make this a family event. We are also looking for companies and individual sponsors of our event. The event will take place in August, 2010, (actual date TBD). We will be having a meeting with those who wish to help sponsor this event in the near future. This event will be a chance for men and women to mingle with each other from all over our country and have fun at the same time.

If interested in attending a meeting in the future, please respond to this email. I will put you on the list to be notified when we determine the meeting in the near future.
For those living outside of Florida, we will gladly send you information for sponsorship and to attend our retreat, if interested. Please forward this email to your churches, pastors, family, friends and those who care about this issue.

Kelly Saunders
Marketing Director to St. Paul AME Church
(786) 202-0021
www.stpaulamemiami.org
www.sugaspices.com

10. ONE AME MISSIONARY HELPING ANOTHER AME CHURCH MEMBER:

*Sister Warkoneta Tucker

I was fortunate to be a member of the Ginghamsburg United Methodist Church of Tipp City, Ohio Adult global mission trip to Slidell, Louisiana, which tool place September 13 – 19.

The nine-person team was made up of three men and six women with basic to advance construction skills. I was the only non-member of Ginghamsburg United Methodist Church; I am a member of Greater Allen AME Church in Dayton, Ohio.

The team’s focus was rebuilding homes, restore families and bring hope to those persons who were adversely affected and who had not recovered from Hurricane Katrina (2005), Hurricane Gustav and Hurricane Ike (2008).

The Ginghamsburg United Methodist Church bus towing a trailer of luggage and construction tools departed Sunday, September 13, 2009 at 4:30 a.m. The men did all the driving and made several rest and meals stops. We drove in and out of rain all the way and arrived at Aldersgate United Methodist Church in Slidell, Louisiana. The host church for Louisiana North Shore Relief Center for the (UMCOR) United Methodist Committee of Relief.

Monday morning the team met with center staff and the contractor. Our project was a new home in need of final touch-ups. The job order called for us install sinks, toilets; install window seals, tile bathroom wall and kitchen tops, painting, cleaning yard and cleaning floors. The air condition was to be installed on Tuesday. Monday was a long and hot day even working indoors; the ceiling fans were of little help. My assigned job was painting doors and trimming for several days. I was also a helper with the windows seals and dry wall removal of one bathroom that was uneven, and laying ceramic tile.

The homeowner’s son, Emory, stopped in on Monday on his way to work. He wanted to meet the new team working on his mother new house. He was thankful for our help in getting his mother back in a house sooner. They both were in FEMA trailers, but later moved to an apartment.

I saw firsthand the great work of disaster relief organizations.

On Wednesday, September 16, the owner of the home we were repairing, Evelyn Jackson, visited us. I learned she was living on $40 a month after paying the high rent on the apartment. She said “I was a fool and was taken in by a crooked contractor.” It has been two years and she is still trying to get her money back. Ms Jackson shared with me a recent loss if a niece who was being buried the next week. And she had heard earlier today of another family member had a stroke. I prayed for her on the spot. As we talked longer, it turned out Ms Jackson was a member of Mt Olive AME Church in Slidell where the Rev. Cedell Raggo is the pastor. Debbie, the team leader, was amazed that we were members of the same denomination and called it a “God thing” that I was with the team and working on a house where the owner of the home was a member of the African Methodist Episcopal Church. I felt that God had sent me, a member of Greater Allen AMEC in Dayton, Ohio where the Rev. Dr Earl Harris is the pastor to help a fellow AME Church member in Slidell, Louisiana.

The work was completed and the team decided to leave Louisiana early and I arrived back home and was able to attend a portion of the South Ohio Annual Conference, which was held at Greater Allen AME Church.

“It’s not about us; it’s about Jesus,” was retired Bishop Vinton Randolph Anderson’s subject at the closing worship service of 2009 South Ohio Annual conference. Helping others is not about us, it’s about helping others.

I give God all the Glory for the mission trip and I thank God for the people I met.

*Sister Warkoneta Tucker, a member of Greater Allen AMEC, Dayton, Ohio

11. THE GREAT PRETENDER:

*The Rev. N.T. Pitts

Some years ago the popular singing group called the Platters recorded the song, “I’m a great pretender.” There is a line in the song that says: “I seem to be what I’m not you see. I seem to be what I’m not you see.”

That’s exactly what Jesus admonished the Scribes and Pharisees about in the gospel of Matthew, “Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For ye devour widows houses, and for a pretense make long prayer: therefore ye shall receive the greater damnation.” Matthew 23: 14, 17

Jesus goes on to say, “Moreover when ye fast, be not, as the hypocrites, of a sad countenance; for they disfigure their faces that they may appear unto men to fast.” Matthew 6:16 KJV

Judas pretended that he loved Jesus when he kissed him, but he was betraying him. Matthew 26:49

Amnon wanted his sister Tamar so badly that he pretended to be sick just to lure her into his bedroom so that he could “know” her. Second Samuel, Chapter 13

There is no new thing under the sun. Ecclesiastes 1:9

There is no doubt that pretending is prevalent in the world today and the church is not excluded. There is a lot of pretending among us “church folk”.

We pretend that we are singing by just moving our lips. We pretend to meditate when our focus is somewhere else. We pretend that we are concerned when we are just being nosey or curious. We pretend that we are being friendly by giving a veneer smile. We pretend that we are busy so that others wouldn’t ask us to do anything. Some of us pretend that we are asleep so that others won’t disturb us. We pretend we don’t see certain people when we don’t want to speak to them. We pretend we are sick in order to avoid work and also to get some neglected attention.

I have seen some pretend they are putting something into the offering plate with a closed hand.

When we are in trouble we pretend that everything is okay. Some of us pretend in order to protect. Some of us even pretend that we are in love.

It is a dangerous thing to pretend. Yes some of us are great pretenders, “we seem to be what we are not.” But the time will come when the wall of pretence will crumble, and when that happens we will face humiliation, rejection and isolation. People will no longer believe or trust us.

It may well be good for us to look in a mirror and ask ourselves questions. Am I pretending? Am I pretending when I fellowship? Do I really love the Lord and my church, or am I pretending? There is a song we used to sing, “Yes God is real, real in my soul”. Do I really care about others or am I just pretending? Am I moved with compassion or selfishness? The final question is, am I a great pretender?

Sharing a bit of humor I heard:

A lady was concern about her husband’s conduct after he had gone to his physician to get his annual physical. You see, every day after the physical he got drunk. She tried to understand why. He tried to tell her but he didn’t make any sense.

So she called the doctor and asked what was wrong with him. The Doctor responded that nothing was wrong and asked her why she asked.
After she explained her husband’s behavior to the doctor, the physician responded that her husband must have misunderstood his directions. The Doctor said, “I told him to drink plenty of liquids.”

*The Rev. N.T. Pitts (Ptaegar@AOL.com) is a retired AME Itinerant Elder who resides in Eatonville, Florida

12. CLERGY FAMILY CONGRATULATORY ANNOUNCEMENT:

- Dr. Herman O. Kelly, Jr., pastor of Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church in Baton Rouge, Louisiana presented a paper, "The Black Church and The Civil Rights Movement" on Monday, September 28, 2009 at 4:30 pm at the Louisiana Interchurch Conference, a statewide Ecumenical organization. The presentation was in conjunction with the Fall Board meeting, which was held in Baton Rouge, Louisiana.

- The Reverend Wayne A. Johnson, Sr., Pastor of St. Paul AME Church, Tulsa, Oklahoma and Mrs. Fredia A. Hanley-Johnson, President of Conn-M-SWAWO, Plus PK's are pleased to announce the birth of their third grandson, William Alexander Fuller, born September 21, 2009 at 1:40 p.m., weighing 7 pounds-13 ounces, 20 inches long; born to their daughter and son-in-law, Brittany and Eddie Fuller of Durham, North Carolina.

Congratulatory responses can be emailed to:

Bfuller@alumni.duke.edu or to: ConnMSWAWOPK@aol.com

- The Rev. Anthony L. Hughes, pastor of Bethel Memorial AME Church, San Diego, California and the Rev. Dorisalene Hughes, Co-Director of the Fifth Episcopal District Prayer Ministry, salute YPD Director Renee Veasey, who is doing a stellar job with the young people of Bethel Memorial AME Church, and the other AME Churches throughout the Southern California Conference and was voted the YPD Director of the Year for the Southern California Conference on September 19, 2009

Congratulations may be sent to:

renee.veasey@navy.mil or renee.veasey@san.rr.com

13. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

We regret to announce the passing of Brother William Lee Dillard which occurred on Thursday, September 24, 2009 in Cape Charles, Virginia. Brother Dillard was the brother of the Rev. Clarence A. Martin, Sr., pastor at Metropolitan AMEC, Philadelphia, PA (Philadelphia Conference, South District). Rev. Martin is also the Chairman of the Philadelphia Conference Board of Christian Education.

The following information has been provided regarding funeral arrangements:

Homegoing Service, Sunday will be held on October 4, 2009 at 3:30 p.

Mt. Sinai Gospel Temple
23066 Bank Road
Fairview, Virgina 23310

Elder Lummie Smith, Pastor

Professional services entrusted to:

Graves Funeral Director
625 Madison Avenue
Cape Charles, Virginia
Fax: 1-757-331-4774

Expressions of sympathy may be sent to:

The Rev. Clarence A. Martin, Sr.
7 King Court
Boothwyn, PA 19061
clarencemartin2001@yahoo.com

14. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

We regret to announce the passing of Mrs. Mildred V. Johnson. She is the mother of Mrs. Pamela Sembly, First Lady of Union Bethel AME Church, Randallstown, Maryland and mother-in-law of the Rev. Charles T. Sembly.

The following information has been provided regarding funeral arrangements:

Homegoing Service:

Monday, September 28, 2009
12:00 Noon

Evangelical Presbyterian Church of Annapolis
710 Ridgely Avenue
Annapolis, Maryland 21401

Expressions of sympathy may be sent to:

Mrs. Pamela Sembly
9827 Marriottsville Road
Randallstown, Maryland 21133

Expressions of sympathy may also be emailed to:

PJSembly@comcast.net

15. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

Sister-in-law of former General Officer:
We are saddened to share news of the passing of Mrs. Aivinoia Lindsey, sister-in-law to the Rev. Carl F. Hunter, Sr., former General Officer, and sister of Mrs. Virginia B. Hunter. Mrs. Lindsey passed away on September 28, 2009.

Homegoing services are as follows:

Thursday, October 1, 2009 at 10:00 a.m.
St. Mark AME Church
1616 W. Atkinson Avenue
Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53206
Phone: (414) 562-8030
Fax: (414) 562-1109

The Reverend Darryl R. Williams, pastor

Monday, October 5, 2009 at 11:00 a.m.
St. John Baptist Church
741 Ee Butler Parkway
Gainesville, Georgia 30501
Phone: (770) 532-0511
Fax: (770) 536-7254

The Reverend Stephen Samuel, pastor

Expressions of sympathy may be sent to:

Mrs. Virginia B. Hunter
1013 Fordham Road
Neptune, New Jersey 07753-4319

Phone: (732) 502-9268

16. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

We regretfully announce the passing of Sister Kathryn Prim, mother of Rev. Paul Prim and mother-in-law of Rev. Jackie Prim, Pastor of Warren Chapel AME Church-Dallas, Texas.

The following information has been shared regarding the Homegoing Celebration of Sister Kathryn Prim.

Homegoing Celebration will be held:
Saturday, September 26, 2009
11:00 A.M.

St. James AME Church
104 W. 6th Street
Arcadia, Oklahoma 73007
Phone: (405) 396-2961

Final earthly care of Sister Kathryn Prim has been entrusted to:

Temple & Sons Funeral Home
2801 N. Kelley Avenue
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73111
Phone: (405) 427-8321
Fax: (405) 427-1642
http://www.templeandsons.com/

Condolences may be sent to:

The Rev. Paul & the Rev. Jackie Prim
1505 Raintree Court
Grand Prairie, Texas 75050
Phone: (972) 206-2171

17. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

We regretfully announce the passing of Sister Kathryn Prim, mother of the Rev. Paul Prim and mother-in-law of the Rev. Jackie Prim, pastor of Warren Chapel AME Church-Dallas, Texas.

The following information has been shared regarding the Homegoing Celebration of Sister Kathryn Prim.

Homegoing Celebration will be held:
Saturday, September 26, 2009
11:00 A.M.

St. James AME Church
104 W. 6th Street
Arcadia, Oklahoma 73007
Phone: (405) 396-2961

Final earthly care of Sister Kathryn Prim has been entrusted to:

Temple & Sons Funeral Home
2801 N. Kelley Avenue
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73111
Phone: (405) 427-8321
Fax: (405) 427-1642
http://www.templeandsons.com/

Condolences may be sent to:

The Rev. Paul & the Rev. Jackie Prim
1505 Raintree Court
Grand Prairie, Texas 75050
Phone: (972) 206-2171

18. 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

19. CONDOLENCES TO THE BEREAVED FROM THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER:

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

THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER ONLINE ENGLISH EDITION (9/24/09)

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 – WHEN IS IT PROPER TO REFER A PASTOR TO THE MINISTERIAL EFFICIENCY COMMITTEE (MEC):

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

Last week I got a frantic call from a pastor who asked me if I had heard about a particular annual conference and had I heard that 8 pastors had arrived at the conference without raising and making a “round” financial report. I was getting ready to respond that I had not heard about the conference he was talking about, but I had heard that a couple of other annual conferences had, had one or two pastors who had come arrived at their conferences without a full financial report. He interrupted me and went on to excitedly say, “The bishop had referred all 8 of those pastors to the Ministerial Efficiency Committee. Before I could respond he asked, “Can the bishop do that? These are hard economic times.” I could have been flippant and responded, “He is an AME bishop,” but I refrained from doing that, instead I begged for time and told him that I would study the issue and share my research with the subscribers of The Christian Recorder.

I first thought about the issue of how difficult it must be for pastors to go to the annual conference without a full financial report and thought to myself that we live in a different world today because there was a time when arriving at the annual conference without a “round” report was the exception.

Before I was assigned to my first church, I knew the importance of raising the budget and the consequences for not doing so. The annual conference report goes back to Bishop Richard Allen. When I arrived at my first pastoral charge at Shorter Chapel AME Church in Paris, Kentucky in July of 1966, my presiding elder impressed upon me that I had to have a “round” annual conference financial report, which was only two months away in September. He encouraged me to contact him or one of the other leading pastors in the district if I needed assistance. Making my “budget” was as AME as I could get. My recollection is that most every pastor had a “round” report and over the years, when a pastor did not have a round report, it was the exception because the expectation was that the report would be a “round” report before the closing of the annual conference. The quickest way for a pastor to be demoted or without a pastoral appointment was to arrive at, and let the annual conference close without a “round” report.

The economic climate today is bleak, but the economic climate has always been bleak for black people and other minorities. In tough times, most black people can say, “been there, done that.” As far back as I can remember, and even before my recollections, black folks in the United States, on the continent of Africa, and in the Caribbean have had menial low-paying jobs; for most of our churches, no bankers, no department store clerks, no investment bankers, no bus drivers, no nurses, few or no policemen, no teachers, unless a church was in an area where there were segregated schools; in any congregation I ever pastored, no doctors or lawyers. Many things change, but at the same time many things remain the same. Raising the budget has always been a challenge.

A pastor’s responsibility is the same today as it was appeared in the AME Discipline 1964 (See Page 294, No. 5), which was the then current Discipline when I was assigned my first pastoral appointment.

Today, The Book of Discipline of the African Methodist Episcopal Church 2008 (Page 113, No. 6) under the title, Responsibilities, states, “The pastor in charge shall…state plans for raising funds to meet the general budget and annual conference obligations."

The question about the issue of the bishop referring those pastors who failed to make a “round” report to the Ministerial Efficiency Committee is worthy of comment. Some of the older bishops used to do just that and it signaled the importance of pastors being faithful to their pastoral annual conference financial responsibilities. It appears from what is stated in The Book of Discipline of the African Methodist Episcopal Church 2008 that a bishop, not only may, but, if he or she follows the law, is obligated to refer deficient pastors to the Ministerial Efficiency Committee, because they are not in good standing. When pastors and laity are allowed to function when they are not in good standing has a negative affect upon morale.

The Book of Discipline of the African Methodist Episcopal Church 2008 (Page 229, Paragraph F, 1, a., b.) states, “The bishop shall appoint a Committee on Ministerial Efficiency consisting of five elders” and “It shall be the duty of this Committee to pass upon the efficiency…of such ministers as may be referred to it.” A pastor’s ability and efficiency in setting forth plans for the administration of the local church, including an overall budget and annual conference obligations clearly falls under the pastoral responsibilities and efficiencies.

It appears from what is stated in The Book of Discipline of the African Methodist Episcopal Church 2008 that a pastor might also be referred to the Ministerial Efficiency Committee for failing to win souls and convincing others to come to Christ, which goes back to the Mission, Vision, Purposes and Objectives of the Church, which is reflected in a Pastor’s Annual Report that indicates “no conversions, no baptisms, no accessions and no ‘Transfers In.’”

In the case of a pastor not meeting his or her annual conference budget, the Ministerial Efficiency Committee should determine if the pastor had done all in his or her power and had utilized all available resources.

If a pastor is referred to the Ministerial Efficiency Committee because no souls are being saved and no one is joining the church, the Ministerial Efficiency Committee should determine if the church is located in a “fertile” area for ministry and if the pastor had done all in his or her power and had utilized all available resources. If all the people in the area are saved and are in church and no new people are moving to the area, then the MEC should absolve the pastor of inefficiency. If the church is located in an area where there are people who are unchurched, the MEC might need to make some recommendations.

I believe that we all, and especially pastors and officers need to be reminded that the local church is not a “cash cow” that provides a salary for preachers to come in once a week to preach and preside over Sunday morning worship; saving souls and winning persons to Christ is the preacher’s job.

And one more thing ---

The temporal and spiritual failure of a local AME Church is the stewards’ fault. When churches are spiritually failing and churches are losing members, it’s the stewards’ responsibility to sit with the pastor to devise strategies and corrective actions to reverse spiritual decline. Church members should stop confirming “do nothing” stewards who are “stealing oxygen” and warming one of the front pews. Just because the pastor nominated them does not mean that members have to confirm them at the Quarterly Conference; all or some of them can be rejected.

If a local church is in disrepair, the lawn uncut, light bulbs not changed; it’s the trustees’ fault and the members of a local congregation are at fault if they keep electing inefficient and irresponsible trustees.

If souls are not being saved and no one is joining the church - that is the pastor’s fault. The bottom-line, everything that happens or fails to happen in the local church falls to the pastor; the “buck” stops with him or her.

Editor’s Note: I found some great information in The Book of Discipline of the African Methodist Episcopal Church 2008. In many cases we have incorrectly defined “Class A” pastors. I will share more in the next issue. Other perspectives on these or other issues in TCR are welcomed.

2. BISHOP RICHARD F. NORRIS KEYNOTE SPEAKER AT THE ANNUAL CONGRESSIONAL BLACK CAUCUS PRAYER BREAKFAST:

Yolanda Adams & Pine Forge Academy Choir to perform during the breakfast.

The Congressional Black Caucus Foundation (CBCF) will host their annual prayer breakfast from 7-10 a.m., on Saturday, September 26th during the final day of their 39th Annual Legislative.

Bishop Richard F. Norris, Presiding Bishop of the First Episcopal District of the African Methodist Episcopal Church will serve as the keynote speaker and will join with other religious leaders during a time of prayer for our first family, our nation and our world. Rev. James P. Baker, Jr., pastor of Morris Brown AME Church in Philadelphia, PA will also serve as a participant during the prayer breakfast.

U.S. Reps. Chaka Fattah of Pennsylvania and Yvette D. Clarke of New York are serving as honorary co-chairs of the 39th Annual Legislative Conference (ALC), from September 23–26 at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center in the nation's capital. This year's conference theme is "Reinvest...Rebuild...Renew." More information on ALC is available at www.cbcfinc.org.

The First District of the African Methodist Episcopal Church is one of twenty districts throughout the world. Headquartered in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania (USA), the District stretches from New England to Delaware and also includes Bermuda.

The First District is steeped in history as the birthplace of African Methodist Episcopalism in 1787, and is blessed to be home to some of the most historic church buildings in the entire AME family. Since its inception, the district has grown to include 300+ individual congregations.

One of these, the Mother Bethel AME Church in Philadelphia, was built in 1797 by AME founder Richard Allen on what remains the oldest parcel of land continuously owned by blacks in the nation. This building continues to serve as a landmark to all members of our faith, which spans three continents and has over 2.5 million members. Today, the First District has extended its ministry to encompass the entire community, with programs specifically geared to women, men and young adults as well as educational initiatives aligned with Historically Black Colleges and Universities and other scholarships. For more information please visit http://www.1stdistrict-ame.com/ or http://www.ame-church.com/.

Contact: Walter C. Jeffers, Editor
First District Flame
(267) 804-1145
firstdistrictflame@yahoo.com

3. AME-SADA CELEBRATES 32 YEARS OF “HELPING PEOPLE HELP THEMSELVES”:

Dr. Cellestine Cheeks

The Second Episcopal District is the headquarters for AME-SADA (African Methodist Episcopal Service and Development Agency) and served as host for the Third Annual Founders’ Awards Gala. The African Methodist Episcopal Church (AMEC) has a 33 year history of bringing hope, compassion, and service to the people of the Republic of Haiti and the continent of Africa through its AME Service and Development Agency. The Second District was host as the Agency celebrated its Third Annual Founders’ Awards Banquet on Friday September 18, 2009 at the Marriott Crystal City Hotel, Arlington, VA in recognition of 32 years of demonstrating its theme: “Helping People Help Themselves”. AME-SADA is the humanitarian relief development agency of the AME Church, the oldest organized African American Church in the United States. It succeeds in fulfilling the mission of the AME Church, which is to minister to the spiritual, intellectual, physical and emotional needs of all people by spreading Christ’s liberating gospel through word and deed.

AME-SADA was founded in 1977 and has continued to help the people of Haiti and Africa provide essential health, education and micro-credit programs, emergency humanitarian aid, and to help reduce poverty and serve the human needs of the population. The AME Church has been providing human services in its overseas districts for more than 150 years.

The Awards Banquet recognized the five clergy and lay Founders with awards named in their honor and included: Bishop John H. Adams, Bishop Frederick C. James, Dr. Joseph C. McKinney, The Reverend Lonnie Johnson and Mrs. Wilburn Boddie. The Annual Founders’ Awards Ceremony provides AME-SADA the opportunity to salute the founders and highlight various economic development agencies, showcase projects in the Caribbean and Africa and recognize outstanding humanitarian service in the United States and the international community. Five awards were presented during this Gala celebration acknowledging contributions in Education, Equal Justice, Peace, Economic Development, and Health. The Bishop’s Humanitarian Award was also presented.

This year’s Award Recipients included: Dr. Jayme C. Williams, Ph.D., The Bishop Frederick C. James – Education Award; Ambassador Andrew Young, The Bishop’s Humanitarian Award; The Honorable Charles B. Rangel, Congressman 15th District New York, The Dr. Joseph C. McKinney – Economic Development Award; Congresswoman Corrine Brown, Representing the 3rd District of Florida – The Bishop John Hurst Adams – Equal Justice Award; William “Bill” Ayers, The Mrs. Wilburn L. Boddie Peace Award; and AME-SADA Haiti Health Staff, The Reverend Lonnie Johnson – Health Award.

The keynote address for the celebration was given by Her Excellency, Michele D. Pierre-Louis, Prime Minister of the Republic of Haiti. The celebration began with a Founders’ Reception and ended with the excellent music of a Haitian/Caribbean band, “Rafrechi”. The Mistress of Ceremony was Denise Rolark Barnes, publisher of The Washington Informer, the leading community newspaper serving the African American community in Washington, D.C., host of the “Reporter’s Roundtable”, a local cable television show and head of the non-profit Washington Informer Charities.

Bishop McKinley Young, AME-SADA Board Chairman, affirmed “the Board’s and AME-SADA’s readiness to work with the religious community to combat poverty and its impact on the lives of our brothers and sisters around the world”. He further stated that “AME-SADA is the embodiment of the AME Church’s commitment to use its expert knowledge and resources to reduce and eradicate poverty. In South Africa, AME-SADA’s work was financed by the AME church and funding from the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and has led to the academic and infrastructure redevelopment of Wilberforce Community College in Evaton” (South Africa).

Bishop Adam J. Richardson, Jr., presiding prelate of the Second Episcopal District served as Chairman of the Founders’ Awards Gala. Mrs. Connie S. Richardson, Episcopal Supervisor and the members of the Second Episcopal District (Baltimore, Washington, Virginia, North Carolina and Western North Carolina) are to be commended for their continued commitment and support of AME-SADA. The Second District Lay Organization facilitated the hosting function for the Awards Gala.

Robert Nicolas, Executive Director of AME-SADA continues to dedicate his professional life, expertise, and ministry to the Agency. He identified the following programs supported by the AME-SADA: 1) comprehensive Child Survival Program; 2) SADA-Kredi, a micro-credit program; 3) School Health Pilot Program; and 4) Re-establishment of Wilberforce Institute as Wilberforce Community College (South Africa). During the Founders’ Awards Gala, a special video production was presented titled “32 Years of Helping People Help Themselves”. These programs and their impact were highlighted in the video.

AME-SADA represents you and needs your support! The Agency depends on contributions to carry out its essential work in the Caribbean and Africa. Do your part to help meet the needs of our brothers and sisters overseas. If you did not participate in the 2009 Founders’ Awards Gala, your participation is urgently needed. Please take a few moments to make a contribution toward the work and ministry of AME-SADA. The Agency is a nonprofit organization, dedicated to improving the quality of life in Africa and the Caribbean and is a charitable institution under section 501 (c) 3 of the Internal Revenue Code. All gifts are tax deductible to the extent provided by law. Contribute Today!

AME-SADA has its headquarters in Washington, D.C., with field offices in Haiti and South Africa. To make a contribution or for more detailed information, please contact:

Robert Nicolas, Executive Director
AME-SADA
1134 11th Street, N.W.
Washington, DC 20001
Telephone: (202) 371-8722
Toll Free- (866) 333-1871
FAX: (202) 371-0981
Website: www.ame-sada.org

4. TWO LEADERS HIGHLIGHT ST. JOHN AME CHURCH STEWARD BOARD RETREAT:

*Dr. Annie Marie Garraway and Ms. Odella Welch

Steward Board members at St. John AME Church in Columbus, Ohio knew there would be much to learn at the first annual Steward Board Retreat and they were not disappointed. The retreat held August 7 - 8, 2009, at the St. John was both an eye-opener and a rousing success! The presenters at the retreat were the Rev. Dr. E. Anne Henning Byfield, Presiding Elder, South District Indiana, and Dr. Richard Allen Lewis, Sr., Treasurer/Chief Financial Officer of the AME Church. The pastor of St. John AME is the Rev. Jermaine Covington.

The retreat opened with a dinner on Friday evening, after which the Rev. E. Anne Henning Byfield conducted a workshop on teambuilding and stewardship. Rev. Byfield’s extensive training and experience in organizational transformation and leadership development were immediately evident as she skillfully opened the workshop. She utilized multiple media – video, group discussion, checklists among them – to accentuate her points.

To help the Steward Board learn more about each other, she asked each member to tell something about themselves that others probably did not know. This was quite effective. Rev Byfield underscored the scriptural foundations of stewards and stewardship as she proceeded to lead discussions on duties and responsibilities of stewards, basic church operation, and understanding the relationship of stewards to the pastor, the congregation, and to each other. She used devices such as an “Officer’s Checklist” (Examples: Love God, Be a tither and regular giver, Have a copy of the 2008 AME Discipline). Rev. Byfield led discussions on Stewards’ division of labor, how Stewards might be more proactive and help the entire church by relieving the Pastor of tasks that Stewards can and should take on. She emphasized the need for leadership succession planning in local churches.

After Rev. Byfield’s sessions on Friday evening and the first part of Saturday morning, Dr. Lewis took the podium. He skillfully led discussions on financing the local church, and how the AME connectional budgets are established and tracked. Dr. Lewis emphasized the Stewards’ role in the management of the resources of the local church. He covered areas such as the financial needs for churches, sources of income, and expenditures and accounting. He too stressed the importance of tithing, and what he called the “10-10-80 rule”: give God 10%, save 10% for yourself, and live off the 80%. While this is an excellent rule for individuals, Dr. Lewis stated that this is a good guide for churches as well.

Dr. Lewis discussed the need for background checks for people who serve on finance committees in the church and for fiscal controls. He also stressed the need for succession plans for the church treasurer and other key personnel. He stated that churches need to have their financial records straight and in order for at least the last three years. Compliance with accounting standards is key, and one software package he recommended is QuickBooks Pro, for churches with membership under 1,000.

After lunch, Dr. Lewis reviewed the finances of the AMEC 2009 General Board. His charts cover 2009-2012 Budget Annual Increases and Budget Annual Decreases. Accomplishments, he noted, included (among others) the approval of the 2009 – 2012 Budget, a Paid in Full 2008 General Conference, and a Paid-Off Line of Credit.

The organizers of the retreat were Ms. Cobin Duncan and Ms. Odella Welch. Ms. Sheila Steele supervised the preparation of the meals. Their efforts and those of church secretary, Pam Clark, contributed much to this outstanding retreat.

In a closing session led by Pastor Covington, the Steward Board created 21 action items that were inspired by the learning from the retreat. We expect the results to be positive and long lasting. A follow up retreat is planned for next year.

The St. John AME Church is located at 7700 Crosswoods Drive, Columbus, Ohio 43235; Telephone: 614-888-0894; the church’s email address is stjohnamechurch@rrohio.com

*Dr. Annie Marie Garraway and Ms. Odella Welch are the Co-Chairs of the Public Relations Commission of the St. John A.M.E. Church.


5. AFRICAN METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH CONNECTIONAL HEALTH COMMISSION RECEIVES PERIPHERAL ARTERIAL DISEASE AWARD:

Washington, DC, September 17, 2009 – The Peripheral Arterial Disease (P.A.D.) Coalition presented its National Stay in Circulation Community Service Award to the African Methodist Episcopal Church (AMEC) Connectional Health Commission at the Coalition’s Sixth Annual Meeting. The Stay in Circulation Community Service Award recognizes a national organization whose activities have focused on increasing awareness about PAD to high risk populations, patients or the health care community. The AMEC Connectional Health Commission received the Stay in Circulation Community Service Award for its efforts to educate the African American community about PAD.

PAD occurs when arteries in the legs become narrowed or clogged with fatty deposits, reducing blood flow to the legs. This can result in leg muscle pain when walking, disability, amputation, and poor quality of life. Blocked arteries found in people with PAD can be a red flag that other arteries, including those in the heart and brain, may also be affected – increasing the risk of a heart attack or stroke.

Since PAD is more common in African Americans than any other racial or ethnic group, the AMEC Connectional Health Commission and P.A.D. Coalition developed a plan to reach AMEC church congregations with information about the disease’s risk factors, warning signs and consequences. Over the last year, three trainings have been held to educate church health ministers and other leaders about PAD and available resources. A church kit which includes copies of a PAD church bulletin insert and special “Stay in Circulation” cardboard fans was produced and promoted to all AME churches. To date, more than 1,500 kits have been distributed.

“On behalf of the P.A.D. Coalition, we are delighted to present the 2009 Stay in Circulation Community Service Award to the African Methodist Episcopal Church Connectional Health Commission,” stated Marge Lovell, RN, chair, P.A.D. Coalition and clinical trials nurse at the London Health Sciences and Centre in London, Ontario. “Our partnership has greatly increased our ability to reach individuals at risk for having undiagnosed PAD at the community level. By increasing awareness of PAD risk factors and warning signs, we aim to reduce the devastating consequences of this disease.”

P.A.D. Coalition Community Service Award 2/2/2/2

“The AME Connectional Health Commission is responsible for coordinating health education and programming at the national level for dissemination to local churches. The education of members of the AME churches and their surrounding communities is largely achieved through collaborative relationships with health associations such as the P.A.D. Coalition,” stated Rev. Miriam Burnett, MD, medical director, AME Church Connectional Health Commission.

“On behalf of the AME Church Connectional Health Commission, we are pleased to receive this honor that recognizes the efforts of a cadre of Health Directors and Coordinators across the country,” stated Gwen Williams, RN, executive director, AME Church Connectional Health Commission.

6. FAITH-BASED SUMMIT ON AFRICA:

The Constituency for Africa (CFA), in partnership with the Pan African Collective, will convene a Faith-Based Summit on Saturday, October 3, 2009 from 9:00 am-12 noon at the Greater Mt. Nebo AME Church located at 1001 Old Mitchellville Road, Bowie, Maryland 20716. The theme of the Faith-Based Summit will be “Opportunities for Faith-Based Initiatives in Africa in the 21st Century”. According to Rev. Jonathan Weaver, the Pastor of Greater Mt. Nebo A.M.E. Church and President of the Pan African Collective, “The purpose of the Faith-Based Summit is to bring members of the African Diaspora together in order to dialogue on matters of faith for all people of African Descent and seek progressive ways in which these faith-based organizations can work together to improve the quality of life for African people”.

The Keynote Speaker will be Dr. Cain Hope Felder from Howard University’s School of Divinity. Other featured speakers include: H.E. Dr. Inonge Mbikusita-Lewanika, the Ambassador of Zambia to the United States; Ms. Jeannine B. Scott, Senior Vice president of Africare and the Coordinator of the African American Unity Caucus (AAUC); Hon. Rosa Whitaker, President and CEO of The Whitaker Group; Mr. Gregory Simpkins, Vice President of the Leon H. Sullivan Foundation; and Mr. Melvin P. Foote, President & CEO of the Constituency for Africa.

There will also be a response to the invited speakers from the Pan African Collective, which is an association of faith-based organizations that focus on building strategic partnerships between American and African faith-based organizations to include: Rev. Dr. Delores Carpenter, Pastor of Michigan Park Christian Church in Washington, D.C.; Rev. Kimberly Barnes, Assistant to the Senior Pastor, Metropolitan A.M.E. Church in Washington, D.C.; Rev. Bernard Fuller, Pastor of New Song Fellowship Bible Church in Seabrook, Maryland; and Dr. Jack Gaines, Immediate Past Director, Cooperative Missions Network of the African Dispersion in Virginia Beach, Virginia.

An open invitation is offered to all faith-based organizations, members of the African Diplomatic Corps, members of the African American Unity Caucus (AAUC) and anyone else that is interested in learning more about how to be involved in opportunities for faith-based initiatives in Africa in the 21st Century. To RSVP and/or obtain additional directions, please contact Mr. David J. Saunders at intern_cfa@yahoo.com. For very precise driving directions to Greater Mt. Nebo AME Church please visit their website at www.gmnebo.org or call the church office at 301-249-7545.

316 F Street, NE, Suite 101, Washington, D.C. 20002
Phone: (202) 371-0588 FAX (202) 371-9017

For More Information Please Contact: David J. Saunders, Constituency for Africa, email: intern_cfa@yahoo.com

7. AME-INDIA PRAYER REPORT FOR THE MONTH OF AUGUST 2009:

Greetings in the name of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ:

We are immensely grateful to you for your prayer support which has been a great encouragement and boost to our ministry here. The Pastors along with their families are toiling tirelessly in trying to build the kingdom of God in this part of the world. Here are some of their experiences in their ministry and prayer requests for you to uphold them in your valuable prayers.

Pastor DR shares that a lady named Sarala, who has been married for the last eight years has not been able to conceive thus far. Her husband is now insisting her to allow him for a second marriage. Sarala is very heart-broken and depressed. She is a Hindu by faith. When our Pastor visited Sarala and shared with her about the gospel of Jesus Christ and his power to perform miracles. She now believes in Jesus and has made a commitment to Jesus. Please pray that God would deal with her as per her faith and bless her with a child, and that her husband would not object to her new found faith.

If you remember last month Pastor D had request prayer for three young persons by name Rajesh, Kumar and Ravi, who had been constantly disturbing during the worship services by tuning their radios at a higher volume. Repeated requests from the Pastor fell on deaf ears. Recently when they were biking they met with an accident and were severely injured. Pastor D visited them in the hospital to pray for them. They suddenly realized that their accident was a punishment from God for the disturbance they had been causing to the worship services. Now they have committed their lives to Jesus and are regularly attending the Sunday worships. Please pray for the spiritual growth. This is a direct answer to our prayers.

Pastor JW thanks God for enabling him to baptize seven new converts on 23rd August 2009. All the seven of them are from the upper caste community. This is indeed a miracle, because it is a rare sight to find people from the upper caste to accept Jesus as their savior. Usually they are very opposed to the Gospel. We request prayers for these seven persons, so that God would protect them from any opposition that they might face either from their society or family. Please also pray that they would stand firm in their faith and witness to their family members and relatives. Pastor JW requests prayer for Rs. 35000/- (800USD) which they urgently need to pay towards the cost of a land and the construction of a church building.

By the grace of God Pastor G was married to Ms. Sujatha on the 2nd September 2009. We seek your prayers and blessing on this new couple as they continue to serve God. Pastor G has been serving the Lord in a small village where he has been able to lead many into the experience of salvation. The congregation worships here in a house. But as the numbers of people grow, they find it difficult to accommodate themselves in this house. They are praying for a separate place to build their church, please pray that God would meet this need and honor their faith. He also reports that recently he has led a Hindu Brahmin (high caste) lady to the Lord. She is a secret Christian; please pray for her protection, because if her husband comes to know this all hell will break loose, as this is a Hindu priestly family.

Pastor SP shares that a lady named Vanaja married two years back and she still has not conceived. She has become an object of ridicule in the society. The church has begun focused prayer for her since few days. Please pray that God would honor the faith of the church and Vanaja, and bless her with a child. Another person by name Ratnaraj, by faith, had made a pledge to the Lord - the Lord honored his faith, he has now received all his arrears from his work place. This has enhanced his faith as well as of the others. Pastor SP reports of having started a new cell-group in a different locality, where people are regularly coming for prayer and bible-study.

Pastor SR shares that he had been conducting worship in two villages, now he has started a new worship group in a nearby village. Please pray for him as he comes from the fishing community, he has been excommunicated because of his faith in Jesus. He goes for fishing into the deep seas to make a living for himself. Please pray for his safety in the sea everyday and also for his safety as he travels to these villages to care for his spiritual folk. He also faces stiff opposition from his Hindu counterparts for his gospel work.

Pastor JD reports about the son of Jeevitha and Sundar, while they were sleeping out on the road, a poisonous snake bit him and he became very serious. He was very precious to their parents, because he was born after five years of their marriage. The boy was taken to the hospital but the doctors gave up on him, that is when Pastor JD was called to come and offer prayers, soon after prayers in a miraculous manner the poison came out of the boy and he was healed. This situation was real challenge for the villagers to know the power of Jesus. The boy’s parents accepted the Lord as their savior and the villagers are also positively responding to the love of Jesus. Please uphold this family, the village and the ministry of Pastor JD.

Pastor R serves the Lord in a predominantly Hindu village, where she has been able to lead thirty-five people to the saving knowledge of Jesus. Recently in the month of August, seven people from the village died one after the other. Now the villagers believe that the guardian spirits of the village are angry with the Christian conversions, therefore the deaths. So the villagers are not troubling the church and preventing them from worshipping. Please pray for Pastor R and her congregation that God may grant them God’s grace to face the situation boldly and strengthen the faith of the church.

Pastor N requests prayer for Mr. Prabhakar and his wife Mrs. Susheela, who have accepted the Lord. Both of them are from the high caste and they have been quite influential in organizing religious festivals. They do not have any children and now the society is blaming their new found faith as the reason for this. Please pray for a miracle in their lives, through which the Lord’s name will be glorified.

Pastor A and Pastor S have been have excellent ministry in two neighboring villages. For example in one open-air meeting the entire village came and heard the gospel. The response was tremendous. 37 people came forward to publicly embrace Jesus. Both the Pastors have been having their regular worship services in the open-air. Now as the rainy season is approaching, they request prayer for a place of worship. Both of them have been able to purchase land to build a church, but do not have the required resources to build the church. Please pray that God would meet this need out of God’s riches in glory so that the congregation could have a place of their own to come for prayer and worship without any disturbances or interruption.

Pastor S is from the high caste Reddy community and she serves the Lord in her own community. This community is known to have put up stiff resistance to the gospel. But by the grace of she has been leading a new person every Sunday to the church. God has blessed her with the gift of healing and the power of the demons. Unfortunately her husband is still a Hindu and he is also a drunkard, due to which the Hindu fanatics mock and tease her, saying she would change her husband first and then witness to others. Please pray that God would change her husband who would be a great asset to her ministry.

Pastor L serves the Lord in two villages where he receives tremendous response from the women folk, but their husbands indifferent and irresponsive. Neither do they come to church nor are they angry with their wives for coming to the church. Please pray for the Holy Spirit to touch the hearts of these husbands through the faith of the wives.

Once again we, AME-India thank you all for your valuable prayers for us. We can feel this prayer support in our ministry here. We also assure you of our valuable prayers for you, your families and your ministry. It is indeed a blessing to be part of such a lively and vibrant church. Let us continue to uphold each other in our prayers. All praise and honor to God.

The Rev. Sarah Peddiny, Presiding Elder, AME-India

Editor’s Note: Initials are used in this article to protect the identities of the individual. Financial donations to AME-India would be deeply appreciated. We need to help these Christians.

8. OKLAHOMA ANNUAL CONFERENCE WAS HELD IN OKLAHOMA CITY:

The Oklahoma Annual Conference was held Sept. 1-5 at First AME. Church, Okla. City, OK, under the dynamic leadership of Bishop Samuel L. Green, Sr., presiding Prelate, 12th Episcopal District, and Supervisor Phyllis Green, WMS Supervisor. The host pastor was Reverend Larry M. Banks.

The WMS started the week with their Annual Day. Conference president Saundra Lucas along with the Conference WMS welcomed the newly appointed supervisor for the 12th District, Phyllis Green. Presentations of recognition were given to the local presidents at the annual Doris O. Pettigrew recognition luncheon. The Conference also presented many boxes of collected food items to Karen Jacobs of the Okla. Dept. Of Human Services, to be given to families in need. The ‘Night in White’ program closed out the WMS session for the day, with Reverend Ruth M. Holmes, pastor of St. Paul AME. Church, Guthrie, Oklahoma was the speaker.

Bishop Green started the conference on Wednesday at 8 am with Roll Call of the churches. The noon “Hour of Power” sermon was given by Reverend Sheila Alford.

The Holy Communion worship service was held that evening with the sermon delivered by the Reverend Eddie L. Harris, pastor of Barnett Chapel AME, in Lawton, Oklahoma.

Dr. James Proctor, president of Ecumenical Vision Ministry, Inc., was our guest facilitator for the training sessions on Thursday and Friday, and Bishop Chester L. Thompson, Jr., Camden, AR., was the speaker for Thursday noon and evening services. Friday night was Lay night and Conference Lay president Patricia Davenport, along with the laity welcomed the speaker of the hour, Rev. Dr. James H. Tucker, pastor of New Zion Baptist Church, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma.

The youth set off the ‘Explosion’ on Saturday with their business session and a rousing worship service. The speaker for the day was the Reverend Travis Doolin, pastor of Mt. Triumph AME, Spencer, Oklahoma.

The conference was closed out with a thought provoking sermon by Bishop Green before he distributed pastoral assignments for the coming year. The Conference was ‘streamed’ on the Internet so all were able to enjoy the services. The media department of First AME also distributed a daily newsletter of conference events and highlights which delighted the attendees of the conference.

In summary, through the sermons of the week, the church was reminded that we have “Unfinished Business”, but in order to take care of this business we must put “God First”. When we go into battle against the enemy we were told that it’s “Time to Put on Your Game Face”. In time, you will receive “The Best That God Has for You”, but in order to make it through, you have to “Maintain Your Momentum” because the church is expected to be the “Healing for a Broken Society”. We must make a commitment to “Getting Back with God” and in our daily walk we can’t be satisfied with just letting things happen, we have to “Go Get It” when it comes to our blessings. “God First” is the theme Bishop Green has adopted for the 12th district. The churches of the Oklahoma Conference will move forward now, putting “God First”.

9. AME-SADA HONORS ONE OF 2ND DISTRICT’S FINEST:

By Dr. Cellestine Cheeks

William “Bill” Ayers is the 2009 recipient of The Wilburn L. Boddie (Peace Award), named in honor of one of its lay founders for the African Methodist Episcopal Church Service and Development Agency (AME-SADA). This award is given annually to an outstanding person or organization that has contributed to the advancement of peace. This honor was bestowed upon William “Bill” Ayers on Friday September 18, 2009 during AME-SADA’s Third Annual Founder’s Awards Banquet, held at the Marriott Crystal Gateway Hotel in Arlington, Virginia.

The 2009 celebration focused on the Republic of Haiti, the first independent nation in Latin America, the first post-colonial independent Black-led nation in the world, and the only nation whose independence was gained as part of a successful slave rebellion. The AME Church has been administering community development programs in Haiti since the late 1850’s and in Africa since the 1890’s. Haiti has a population of almost eight million people. The population is young: 40% of the population is younger than 15 years of age, and 15% is under the age of five. Women of childbearing age make up approximately 25% of the population. Only 4% of the population is age 65 years or older. The country's annual per capita income is less than U.S. $ 250; unemployment is over 89%; the current rate of inflation is 41.66%; the literacy rate is less than 35%, and potable water is available to less than 40% of the population. An equal number has no access to health care. The prevalence of HIV/AIDS in Haiti is the highest among all nations in the Western Hemisphere. Child mortality and morbidity have reached crisis proportions.

Mrs. Wilburn Boddie’s distinguished 30+ year career in the AME Church, her community and the federal government employment as a personnel and management specialist and the Acting Director of the Office of Equal Opportunity Program at the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), culminated with AME-SADA obtaining the status of private voluntary organization, (PVO) with USAID for AME-SADA. This document led to the organization obtaining the status as a widely recognized agency for international development (Nicolas, 2009). Today AME-SADA is a leading humanitarian relief and development provider.

William “Bill” Ayers is active in the lay movement and closely follows in the influential footsteps of service previously led by Dr. Joseph Columbus McKinney, a leader in his own right, mentor and friend and one of the original founders of AME-SADA (Economic Development Award). Bill has served at each level of the Lay Organization: local, conference, district and connectional. He is currently serving as the president of Ward Memorial AME Church’s Lay Organization, Washington, DC. He is a former vice-president of the Washington Conference Lay Organization, past chairman of the Maude Davis Scholarship fundraising committee and is currently Board Chair of the Davis/McKinney Scholarship Foundation at the district level. He is also the former Director of Public Relations and editor and publisher of "WE SPEAK", the Connectional Lay Organization’s newsletter, at the Connectional level. He has represented Ward Memorial AME Church, the Washington Conference and the Second District as delegate to the AME Church’s General Conference and Lay Organization’s Biennial Sessions. In addition, he was honored as Laymen of the Year at Ward Memorial and at the Washington Conference and has been recognized at the Connectional Lay level for his “unselfish and dedicated service to the mission and goals of the Organization”.

Bill Ayers is an excellent choice for the Wilburn L. Boddie Peace Award. His service mirrors Mrs. Boddie’s and has impacted the AME Church’s global community. It was during his period of service as director of public relations for the Connectional Lay Organization that Bill had the opportunity to participate as a supporter of the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) spearheaded by Congressman Charlie Rangel (D-NY). AGOA was signed into law on May 18, 2000, as Title 1 of The Trade and Development Act of 2000. The Act offers tangible incentives for African countries to continue their efforts to open their economies and build free markets. President Bush signed amendments to AGOA, also known as AGOA II, into law on August 6, 2002, as Sec. 3108 of the Trade Act of 2002. AGOA II substantially expands preferential access for imports from beneficiary Sub-Saharan African countries. Bill gave testimony on Capitol Hill in support of the Act which subsequently passed the House and Senate and continues today.

Robert Nicolas, Executive Director of AME-SADA states that “by presenting William “Bill” Ayers with The Mrs. Wilburn L. Boddie Peace Award, we wish to recognize him for his many achievements in his church, as a volunteer for various socially important activities and issues, community development accomplishments and professionally. In addition, we also want to emphasize his steadfast efforts to promote good relations between and among people for the common good. As a pioneer in fighting for respect for all peoples, his dedication, his vision, wisdom, integrity and commitment have set a standard for others to follow”.

William E. Ayers, Jr., is a native Washingtonian. He is an active member of Ward Memorial AME Church serving as a class leader, president of the senior usher board, chairman of the I.A. Miller Scholarship Committee, church coordinator for Partners-In-Education with Smothers Elementary School, and a former trustee. He also tutored in the Church's Saturday Enrichment program for school children in grades 3-6.

Bill’s life of volunteerism and service was also evident in his employment endeavors. He served in lead roles as representative and participant of the Treasury Department and the Library of Congress during the Savings Bond Drive, American Red Cross Blood Drive (Bill continues to give blood in his retirement years), and the Combined Federal Campaign. He has been recognized by each of those acts of volunteerism by Secretaries of the Treasury, Comptrollers of the Currency and the Librarian of Congress for his commitment and excellence in achievement for going above and beyond expected goals. He currently serves as a volunteer with the National Book Festival on the Mall - a White House initiative supported by the Library of Congress.

His community activities include: former scout master for Hillcrest Heights Boy Scout Troop #224, block club representative in his neighborhood for the Hillcrest Heights Civic Association, and member of the NAACP. He was also chairman of the board for the Treasury Department’s Federal Credit Union, Board member of the Montgomery College School of Printing, and member of the D.C. Chapter of the Black Public Relations Society.

Bill is married to Marjorie Bagley Ayers and they have three adult children.

The 2nd District extends congratulatory cheers to one of our finest laymen, William “Bill” Ayers. We know that this recognition gives us opportunity to continue in the tradition of excellence established by laypersons across our denomination.

10. NEWS AROUND THE AME CHURCH:

- Brother Kgosi Monaisa was recently elected as the new President of the Nineteenth Episcopal District Lay Organization. The Nineteenth Episcopal District is comprised of five conferences: Orangia, Natal, M.M. Mokone Memorial Conference, East and West Conferences.

- Mrs. Jimmie Howard, the spouse of the Rev. Jimmie Howard was elected president of the (MSA) Minister Spouse Alliance for The Central Conference of the Eleventh Episcopal District at the Central annual Conference on Sept. 3, 2009.

11. CLERGY FAMILY CONGRATULATORY ANNOUNCEMENT:

Danielle Lewis-Thompson, the daughter of the Rev. Wilfred D. Lewis, pastor of Bethany AME Church located in Yonkers, New York, proudly announces that she is the Camden County Top News Examiner for Examiner.com. Danielle will be covering politics, public policy, civic engagement and community/service events.

Danielle is a public relations professional in the area of politics, public policy, civic engagement and community service. She holds a Bachelor's of Arts in Sociology/Criminal Justice from William Paterson University in Wayne, New Jersey and a Masters of Public Administration from Rutgers University in Camden, New Jersey.

Her page can be found at http://www.examiner.com/x-18555-Camden-County-Top-News-Examiner.
Congratulatory responses can be emailed to: dtamaraclewis@aol.com

12. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:

We regret to announce the passing of Brother Harold Southerland. He is the brother of the Rev. Patricia McAllister, pastor at Mt. Zion AME Church, Columbia, Pennsylvania (Philadelphia Conference, Harrisburg District). The following information has been provided regarding funeral arrangements.

The funeral has been held.

Expressions of sympathy may be sent to:

The Rev. Patricia McAllister
1193 Glenside Road
Downingtown, PA 19335
USA

13. LIVING WITH OPTIONS:

*The Rev. N.T. Pitts

There is no doubt that we are living with options. God is not a puppeteer and we are not puppets. After God had made Adam, God placed him in the garden and gave him an option. You can eat of every tree in this garden except one. And if you eat of that tree you shall surely die (Genesis 2:16-17); that was an option, Adam could live or die. It is because of the option that Adam took that humankind has to die.

God could make all of us “good” with the twinkle of an eye, but God has given us options. That’s called, Free Will.

Can you imagine a world with no homicides, no suicides, no hate and no need for prisons, no wars and no going before judges in court battles?

Because of the options we were given, we find ourselves in a state of frustration and confusion, disappointments and disgrace, fighting and feuding, killing and being killed; lying and being lied on; accusing and being accused.

Look at the options God has given us:

Behold I set before you this day a blessing and a curse. - Deuteronomy 11:26-28

Behold I stand at the door and knock; if any man hear my voice and open the door, I will come in to him and will sup with him and he with me. - Revelation 3:20

Peter was given an option when Jesus was washing the Disciples feet. Peter didn’t want his feet washed, but after he found out what his options were he said, “Not only my feet, but my hands and my head. - John 13:6-9

In counseling, during my tenure as a pastor and a teacher, I never told any of my counselees what to do. When they came to me with a problem I took time to show them and explain to them what their options were’ and let them decide what option they should take.

There are some of us who want to be told what to do. A counselor should never tell anyone what to do because they can be held liable and counselees should make their own decisions.

There are some of us who feel that they are not capable of making the right choices. The point is, if they fail, they could easily blame somebody else rather than blaming ourselves.

How often have you heard, “If I hadn’t listened to you/him/her, I wouldn’t be in this mess?” No matter what the situation or circumstances may be, there are always options.

I am sure you have heard this remark: “Something told me not to do that.” Well, that something is not a thing, it is the Spirit trying to tell you what your options are, but many don’t listen.

Many lives have been lost and many are now incarcerated all because of the options they took.

It is wise, before you make any decision about whatever it may be, to consider your options.

In some cases there are more options available than others. Yes, we are living with options and if we fail to take the right option we have no one to blame but ourselves.

We can take the “broad way” or we can take the “narrow way.” (Matthew 7:13)

We can take blessing or we can take cursing.

It grieves me when I see the options some of our young black men have taken. A campaign needs to be started with the acronym (PUYP) Pull up Your Pants. It is a disgrace to see even the very young practicing this most distasteful dress code.

Our young women have limited options when it comes to finding someone who wants to be something in life and raise a family. The “pickings” are “slim to none.”

We do have options. We can listen or we can ignore. We can look or we can fail to see. We can act or we can react. We can encourage or we can criticize. We can do something or we can make excuses.

The four leprous men considered their options in II Kings 7:3-5
Why sit here until we die? They took the right option.

Yes we do live with options.

My motto has always been: “Never too busy to listen”

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

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.