The Reverend Dr. Johnny Barbour, Jr., Publisher
The Reverend Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III, the 20th Editor, The Christian Recorder – Since 1852
--Reminders--
- AME Connectional Day of Prayer: April 13, 2011
- Palm Sunday: April 17, 2011
- Easter Sunday: April 24, 2011
- AME Connectional Day of Prayer: April 13, 2011
- Palm Sunday: April 17, 2011
- Easter Sunday: April 24, 2011
1. EDITORIAL – THE BISHOP HAS A WORD, BUT THE WEIGHT FALLS ON THE BOARD OF EXAMINERS:
Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III
The 20th Editor of The Christian Recorder
I was in conversation with several preachers and we got on the subject about the editorial I wrote about ministerial education entitled, “We Must Relook where Our Preachers are trained” and about some of my past comments about the Boards of Examiners.
One of the preachers said that he felt that any issues with the AME clergy had to fall at the feet of the Boards of Examiners. He used himself as an example and said that he loved the AME Church and would be considered “old school” AME even though he was not a senior citizen and he had not attended an AME seminary.
He went on to say that the Board of Examiners in his annual conference was “on top of their game.” As an example, he said that even though he attended one of the top seminaries in the country, he had to meet with the Board of Examiners. He explained that he didn’t appreciate having to meet with the Board of Examiners at the time, because he was in seminary, but looking back at it, came to realize how important that experience was because those sessions developed his appreciation and love for the history, doctrine and polity of the African Methodist Episcopal Church; a perspective that he did not get in seminary. He said sometimes people choose seminaries because of convenience; their homes are near the seminary.
And, then he threw something else in the conversation. He said, “You know, I also feel that bishops bear most of the responsibility for some of the problems we are experiencing in the profession of ministry, because they have the power to refuse to ordain a person; they don’t have to ordain everybody the board presents.
I just had to respond
I wanted to clarify the issue about where our ministerial candidates should attend seminary and said, “Well, I am not saying that our candidates for ministry must attend an AME seminary, but I am saying that the AME Church needs to have better oversight of which seminaries our seminarians attend; if they do not choose to attend an AME seminary.”
I was anxious to respond to something else the preacher said, but the flow of the conversation present an opportunity to respond.
Let me go out on a limb
An AME seminarian does not need to attend a Southern Baptist, Roman Catholic or an Apostolic seminary - period! Seminaries prepare students for the pastoral ministry. A Baptist Seminary cannot prepare ministerial candidates for ministry in the African Methodist Episcopal Church.
Certainly the local church bears some responsibility
Our conversation continued, and I discovered that several of the preachers were members of the Board of Examiners in their annual conferences.
One of the preachers pointed out that the application for ministry begins with the local church and he felt that many local churches fail to make a serious effort to evaluate and screen their applicants for ministry. He was critical of the local church and said local churches need to be more selective in who they recommend for ministry. He went on to say that the “buck stops” with the local church and that they should not recommend persons for ministry they know are not competent for ministry.
I responded, “But once a person has been recommended, approved by the quarterly and district conferences and is in the pipeline-system for ministry and has met the academic and spiritual qualification for ministry, Boards of Examiners have the power to move people forward and recommend ordination, or stop the process. It’s the Board of Examiners’ responsibility to be the gatekeepers for ministry in the African Methodist Episcopal Church.”
Another preacher responded, “Yes, but presiding bishop has the power to say no. The bishop can stop the process.”
Aha! Now I could respond to this and the previous “curve about the bishops being responsible” for whatever issues we might be experiencing around the issue of ministerial training.
Bishops, as coaches, are absolutely responsible on the front-end of the process. So, in a sense, they bear some responsibility. They are responsible for setting up the teams of the Boards of Examiners in the annual conference.
Members of the Board of Examiners need to be carefully selected, not because the size of the church they pastor but they should be chosen because they are fully qualified and love the AME Church. Pastors who are not team-players, those who do not have the time to serve or those who serve their own agendas should not be appointed as members of the Boards of Examiners. The bishop is responsible for setting up the team.
Once the teams of Boards of Examiners are set up, in the words of Dr. Floyd Flake, in his lecture about pastoral leadership at Belmont University in Nashville, “When a leader sets up the team, the leader should empower and trust the team.” Flake went on to say, speaking of the pastors, “You have set up the team and you have to trust them to do the work.”
So, when the bishop sets up the team, the responsibility for execution of the mission becomes the responsibility of the team. As they say at the Pentagon, “An action passed is an action completed.” In other words, when the bishop appoints the preachers to serve on the Board of Examiners, the Board of Examiners becomes the proprietor of the action; the board becomes the “voice” of the bishop.
When the Board of Examiners does its work, the “buck stops” with its decisions. If it recommends ordination or some other action for candidates, the bishop should trust the decision of the board because he or she appointed the board and if the board has done its work with the ministerial candidates; it probably knows them best.
I wanted to make the point clear so I said, “The buck stops at the feet of the Boards of Examiners.” The preachers nodded, but one of the preachers signaled that he had something else to say.
He said, “I am a young pastor and I love the AME Church. The issue for the AME Church and for the itinerancy is deeper than where our seminarians are trained and may be more crucial than the issue of the Boards of Examiners. I think, from an academic standpoint about leadership, you are correct. A bigger issue that the Church needs to come to grips with is ministerial compensation. The Church’s academic and theological training requirements for Itinerant Elders are a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university and a Master of Divinity degree from an accredited seminary. Most of us graduate with debt, think loans and then, if we get a church, the salaries are so low that we have to get a ‘J-o-b’; a job because a lot of us have to pay off student loans.”
I was getting ready to respond when he waved his hand.
He said, “Wait; please let me finished. We have to get a job because the first thing we hear from the stewards when we get to the church is that they can’t afford to pay what they paid the last pastor or they had some kind of arrangement with the last pastor. Sometimes the annual conference pastoral reports are less than honest. So the issue becomes a deeper systemic ethical issue. I just think that the connectional church needs to realistically address the issue of pastoral compensation and the issue of bivocational ministry. I also think that many of our churches can do better, but for some reason won’t. We have stewards who won’t take the initiative and try to come up with a plan or a strategy to increase discipleship and stewardship. And, frankly, some pastors have given up. A lot of our older pastors are in poor health and I believe it’s related to stress.”
There was silence.
The female pastor in the group spoke up and said, “It looks like you got about six editorials and maybe it’s time for some of us who call ourselves preachers, to ‘light a fire’ under ourselves. Seems like we do a lot of complaining about ‘this and that’ and we can preach about ‘holding on and holding out’ but we don’t handle adversity well when it ‘knocks at our door.’”
There was nothing else for me to say. The conversation had gotten heavy, but I thought to myself, it’s so convenient to talk about what the connectional church should do, but we rarely think about what we should do.
In reality, all of us both AME lay and clergy are the connectional church. Change begins with each of us. In our churches and in our ministerial groups we can begin to talk and to strategize about what we can do better in the world where we live and in the churches where we worship, and in the communities in which we live.
Yep, there are probably about six editorials and op-eds in the discussion we had.
It’s not “Them”; it’s “Us”, “We” and “I” who can make a difference in our Zion.
What do you think?
Future Editorials: “Mistakes Made by Parishioners”, “Mistakes made by Pastors”, Mistakes made by Presiding Elders”
2. READER RESPONSE TO EDITORIAL AND OTHER ISSUES:
- To the Editor:
RE: Thank you for the Asbury Theological Seminary information in TCR
I greet you in the precious name of Jesus.
This letter is written to inform you that I have been accepted in Asbury Theological Seminary's Wesleyan Studies Summer Seminar.
Also I want to thank you for the article in The Christian Recorder that brought this Seminar to the readers' attention.
My project is entitled, "The Doctrine and Experience of Wesleyan-Arminian Holiness in the African Methodist Episcopal Church." Specifically, I want to learn whether or not the doctrine of holiness of early Methodism was non-Pentecostal or Pentecostal, i.e. the speaking of tongues as evidence of being filled with the Holy Ghost.
I also want to determine where the broad Methodist family, i.e. United Methodist, African Methodist Episcopal; African Methodist Episcopal Zion and Christian Methodist Episcopal Churches stand on the doctrine of Wesleyan Arminianism.
My deepest thanks for the article that challenged me to apply for this opportunity to continue and complete my study and research on the doctrine of holiness of heart and life.
I have been in ministry 65 years; 33 of those were in pastoral ministry, retired as of 2001. June 1, 2011, I will be 84 years of age. God has indeed been good to me
The Rev. Dr. Ida V. James
Editor's Note: Thank you so much for the feedback. I often wonder if readers are taking advantage of the excellent resources offered in The Christian Recorder. Again, thank you for your response and congratulations on your acceptance into Asbury theological Seminary's Wesleyan Studies Summer Seminar!
- To the Editor:
RE: Editorial, “The Altar and the Sacrifice are Intimately Related to Each Other”
Your editorial made me very aware of what happened at offering time in our service today. There was no way I could NOT observe intently.
Result: My offering became a collection. I've learned so much!
Thank you for this piece of AME education.
Name Withheld
- To the Editor:
RE: Challenge VII – Reading the Bible from Cover to cover
Just to let you know that the 13th Episcopal District in on a Lenten Journey 2011. For the past three years we have endeavored to increase our prayer time (Daniel 9:3), read daily devotions and go on the Daniel Fast. Prior to that we published our printed Lenten guide, which was a great success of the 13th Episcopal District School of the Prophets.
Since the Thursday following Ash Wednesday we have gathered together early in the morning for a Praycation lent 2011 on a conference call. There is prayer, study of the word of God, testimony, praise reports and prayer requests. You are invited to join us every Thursday during the season of Lent.
By the way, I will be joining you in the discipline of reading God's Word beginning April 1st. I have several Bibles from the one year to the 90 day Bible. On the Praycation blog, we began to encourage people to read through the Bible in one year. The daily readings are featured on the blog. (Praycation began at our Christian Education Convocation in 2009)
Thank you for encouraging our church in the practice of the spiritual disciplines of prayer and study.
Blessings
Bishop Vashti Murphy McKenzie
- To the Editor:
RE: Scammers trying to get money from AME Churches
We had the same thing happen here in the 5th District, Midwest Conference. Phyllis Kitchen's (Trinity AME) name was used.
Jo Lee Brooks
- To the Editor:
RE: Cracking the code for New York pizza - (See #21 in this issue)
Thank you for sharing. This is so spooky because this past weekend we were talking about when Manny was 6- years old we had is birthday party at Snowhawk Chapel in Alaska, and you made all the pizza, and we called it the New York Chaplain Sydnor’s Pizza and people was hiding those pizza all in their pocket book and bags; but we had a good time and that was the best pizza we ate.
Mrs. Ina Jones
3. “YOU ASK”:
Bishop Richard Allen Chappelle
I Ask:
Is there definition, universally accepted, in The Book of Discipline of the African Methodist Episcopal Church 2008 that clearly differentiates the term "Full Membership:" persons who have been received into Full Membership; from the "Total Membership" of our congregations, which include preparatory members?
The Rev. Ronald P. Simmons
Bishop Richard Allen Chappelle’s Response to the Question:
To the best of my knowledge, "There is no definition universally accepted in The Book of Discipline of the African Methodist Episcopal Church 2008 “which will clearly differentiate between the term Full Membership and Total Membership. However the terms that are raised here are not related even though the word membership appears in each. It is my understanding that the term “Full Membership” is one that is “conferred" upon one who has:
(1) publicly professed a saving faith in Jesus Christ
(2) been assigned to a specific "class leader at a given Church
(3) been instructed to attend "new members’ classes" that lasts a minimum of 90 days
(4) After attentively attending these classes which cover our theology, doctrine, polity, customs, traditions and other matters the local church deem needed and necessary
(5) The person is recommended to the "official Board" by the class leader/class instructor(s) the person is now ready to be "Read into Full Membership"
It is my understanding that the person having been instructed to attend the class (during the 90 days) had the option of withdrawing oneself from consideration of becoming a "Full Member" at anytime during the "initiation/indoctrination process."
It is also my understanding that the class instructor/leader might recommend that this person “Not Be” considered because of a lack of attendance, inability to comprehend / poor grasp of instructions or displays an attitude and spirit which implies an unwillingness to abide by the tenets of The Book of Discipline of the African Methodist Episcopal Church 2008, proper church behavior/decorum, etc.
(6) The person, having completed the course and having been recommended to be read into “Full Membership” and approved is then “Read into Full Membership,” extended “The Right Hand of Fellowship" and given a certificate of Full Membership. The individual is expected to “Fully,” not haphazardly, participate as prescribed in The Book of Discipline of the African Methodist Episcopal Church 2008 and specifically the New Members Covenant Agreement as found therein. (The Book of Discipline of the African Methodist Episcopal Church 2008, pp. 510 -512)
(7) Having fulfilled these basic tenets, it is my understanding that a person having been accepted as a “Full Member” retains such status as long as his or her behavior, conduct, personal life, etc., conforms to our Doctrine, Discipline, Polity and procedures.
If it is reported and determined that the person is not living up to the Doctrine, Discipline, Covenant relationship, due process calls for the person to be first "Reproved by the proper authorities."
If the person willfully refuses to abide thereto the said person can be removed from the classification of being a Member.
Obtaining “Full Membership” carries with it certain commitments and responsibilities. (The Book of Discipline of the African Methodist Episcopal Church 2008, Part IV Church Membership Section II, and Local Church Organization pages 75-76 B. the Official Board).
(8) Conversely there is a prescribed process and procedure for determining if a person is striving to "live up to" their covenant agreement and what the congregation is to do in such eventualities (Part IV as above pages 71-72 a. The Class
“Total Membership,” on the other hand has to do with a computing / numerical count of the "Active and Inactive members on the local church’s "Official Roll."
It is my understanding that this "official Roll of the local Church" is verified utilizing the due process and procedure of the Church which are as follows:
(1) The class leader(s) validate whether a person is living up to their covenant agreement, which includes but is not limited to (a) attendance (b) support, (c) participation, (d) spirit and attitude towards other members
(2) The Class Leader(s) report such positive or negative conduct of “All Members” during the "regularly held general "Class Meeting," who in turn forward the same in writing to the "regular held "Official Board" sessions of the Local Church. Note, “The Class Leader's report is not confined to Negative information>”
(3) The Official Board has the authority and responsibility to formulate a committee who is to "investigate," and make attempts to help the "delinquent member in course correction."
(4) After a reasonable length of time the Committee/Class leader(s) should make a formal report and recommendation to the Official Board on the "new status" of said member(s)
Thus there is a prescribed process and procedure established for the “Adding to or Removing” of the individual(s) on the Roll of the Local Church, which in effect calls for action by the Official Board. This is the Board that determines what constitutes the “Total Membership” (This is inclusive of all categories of membership i.e., youth, children, adults, senior citizen, etc) of a local Church
(5) The information concerning the “True Total Membership” is reported and validated at the Official Board and reported to the presiding elder at each quarterly conference.
Thus, I contend that the “Total Membership” of each Local Church as reported at the annual conference is, in reality, a compilation of the validated (a) Official Board's reports which have been reported each of the (b) four Quarters during the Conference Year. (c)These computations / totals had been previously received, discussed, validated and approved by both (a) The Official Board and (b) The Quarterly Conference. (See Official Board and Part VIII Conferences and Conventions specifically Section IV -The Quarterly Conference pages 233-235 Disciplinary Questions # 1-22 and Pastor's Annual Report Blank pages 690-691 Part B # 1-7(e).
Lastly, there is the question as to what is the “Total Membership” prior to the General Conference and after the General Conference; and prior to Annual Conference and after the Annual Conference.
Prior to 1956 and After 1956; Are Episcopal Districts, Annual Conferences, Presiding Elder Districts and Local Churches assessed General Budget based Upon Total Membership?
4. BISHOP RICHARDSON SAYS THE SCAMMERS ARE AT IT AGAIN - 4 CHURCHES IN THE 2ND EPISCOPAL DISTRICT CONTACTED BY SCAMMERS:
Bishop Richardson says the scammers are at it again - 4 churches in the 2nd Episcopal District contacted by scammers. The bottom-line upfront: No AME Bishop’s niece is stranded or needs money.
TCR received a telephone call from Bishop Adam Jefferson Richardson a few minutes ago. He said that four churches in the 2nd Episcopal District had been contacted by scammers requesting help and about his niece being stranded and needing financial assistance.
Churches and pastors should not be duped and naïve --
Last year it the unscrupulous people were claiming that a niece of Bishop Richard F. Norris was stranded and needed assistance. Several years ago it was Bishop Adam J. Richardson’s niece who was stranded and needed help and now Bishop Richardson is again being used by person for dishonest gain.
This is a reminder for everyone to be aware about the scam of some bishop’s niece being stranded and needing money.
Just think about it
If any of our bishops had a relative who needed assistance, any of the Bishops could assist any of their relatives who needed assistance. And, if a pastor was not sure or had any doubts, all the pastor would have to do would be to pick up The Book of Discipline of the African Methodist Episcopal Church 2008 and call the bishop’s office or residence.
The best advice is to use common sense and follow your gut!
Believe me, no AME Bishop’s niece is stranded and needs money!
Feel free to share this message – We do not want any churches duped out of any money!
5. THE SCAMMERS ARE AT IT AGAIN:
Read a first-hand report from the Rev. Margaret Simms, pastor of Mount Olive AME Church in Slidell, Louisiana
“My name is the Rev. Margaret Simms I am the pastor of Mount Olive AMEC in Slidell, La 8th District – The Rev. Carolyn Tyler Guidry is my Bishop.
Earlier today I received a call from a gentleman who stated that his name is Presiding Elder Jeffrey Smith serving in the 1st District under Bishop Norris and that he has a niece Rosa Allen who is relocating from New York City with her four children due to her job, she is a widow whose husband died about 3 years ago. She supposedly is a Loan Officer with the Federal Government and is being transferring to the Slidell area by her job. He gave me her number and ask me to call and check on her, well at the first call I got a voicemail, shortly after Rosa Allen called me explaining that she is in South Carolina heading to Slidell with a trailer on the back of her van, on an exit turn stopping to get gas the trailer hit the back of the van and now she cannot go any faster than 45 MPH, she said and I quote, “Pastor what do you suggest I do?’
By this time I am so sympathetic I suggested that she pull over get the vehicle checked and call me back.
In the meantime, I contacted Bishop Tyler Guidry who stated she had not received a call from Presiding Elder Jeffrey Smith, nor did she know who this person was; and it was at that moment the scams from the past hit me I received about 6 calls from Rosa Allen but she would never leave a message I felt so stupid to have been drawn into the scam; I did text this Rosa Allen and inform her that I am aware of the scam and that if she is not a part that I would be waiting to embrace her and her family into our church community needless to say I have not received another phone call since.
Whoever these persons are they are doing their job thoroughly as the female gave me the address she is supposedly moving to which upon research we found that it is a vacant rental property in the upscale area of Slidell.
A couple hours later, I received the email from The Christian Recorder Online informing us of the scams in the 2nd District.
What an Awesome God we serve!”
The Rev. Margaret Simms
Mount Olive AME Church
Slidell, Louisiana
6. THE CONNECTIONAL DAY OF PRAYER ACTIVITIES SHOULD BE HELD IN ALL AME CHURCH COMMUNITIES WORLDWIDE. APRIL 13, 2011:
The Connectional Day of Prayer - Wednesday, April 13, 2011 [Midnight Apr 12th to Midnight Apr 13th]
Churches are encouraged to plan activities to include, but not be limited to: Season of Fasting – Early Morning, Mid-Day, and/or Evening Prayer Calls - Prayer Vigils – Prayer Walks - One Day Prayer Retreats; and much more!
Please Contact Episcopal District Offices beginning February 11, 2011 for information and suggestions that can assist in making the Connectional Day of Prayer impactful, powerful and meaningful in the life African Methodism
The Connectional Day of Prayer is endorsed by the Council of Bishops and the 48th Quadrennial General Conference Commission 2008. The Connectional Day of Prayer is an annual observance of the General Church. The Connectional Day of Prayer is under the auspices of the Prayer Committee of the 49th Session of the General Conference; Bishop Sarah F. Davis, Chair and the Reverend Dorisalene Hughes, Prayer Director.
Mark your calendars now for the 2011 observance of our Connectional Day of Prayer!
Submitted by Bishop Sarah Frances Davis, Presiding Prelate, 16th Episcopal District
7. BISHOP CAROLYN TYLER GUIDRY TO BE INDUCTED INTO MOREHOUSE COLLEGE’S “BOARD OF PREACHERS AND SCHOLARS":
The Martin Luther King Jr. International Chapel at Morehouse College in Atlanta, Georgia celebrates “Spiritual and Science Awareness Week” each year. The Dean of the Chapel, the Rev. Dr. Lawrence Carter, inducts persons who have been nominated and approved by the college into "The Board of Preachers and Scholars," one of Morehouse College Chapel's highest honors.
The persons selected for induction are selected because they have demonstrated the philosophies of Mohandas Gandhi, Martin Luther King, Jr. and Daisaku Ikeda. Inductees are considered to be among the nation’s premier scholars and most respected preachers. Past inductees have included the Rev. Dr. Joseph Lowery and Ambassador Andrew Young.
The Martin Luther King Jr. International Chapel at Morehouse College in Atlanta, Georgia has chosen the Right Reverend Carolyn Tyler Guidry, the 122nd Elected and Consecrated Bishop of the African Methodist Episcopal Church as one of its inductees into "The Board of Preachers and Scholars."
The ceremony will take place on Thursday, April 7, 2011 at 10:00 a.m. at Morehouse College.
8. AME GWEN IFILL, ALONG WITH CHARLES J. OGLETREE, WILL BE THE 2011 MOREHOUSE COLLEGE COMMENCEMENT SPEAKER:
AME Gwen Ifill, along with Charles J. Ogletree, will be the 2011 Morehouse College Commencement Speaker; Ms. Ifill will also receive an honorary doctoral degree
Charles J. Ogletree, Jesse Climenko Professor of Law, Harvard Law School and Gwen Ifill, moderator/managing editor, “Washington Week,” Public Broadcasting Service will be the 127th Commencement speakers at Morehouse College on Sunday, May 15, 2011, 8:00 a.m. at the Century Campus, 850 Westview, Drive, S.W., Atlanta, Georgia 30314
Approximately 500 men of the graduating class of 2011 will get a treat on Sunday, May 15th when both noted attorney and author Charles Ogletree and award-winning journalist Gwen Ifill deliver the commencement address to the class. Both Ogletree and Ifill will receive honorary degrees.
Also receiving honorary degrees are Billye Aaron, member of the Morehouse College Board of Trustees and wife of baseball Hall of Famer Hank Aaron and attorney Willie “Flash” Davis, chair of the Morehouse College Board of Trustees.
As the nation’s largest, private liberal arts college for men, Morehouse College was recently recognized as the number one liberal arts college in the nation by Washington Monthly; one of 45 “Best Buy” schools for 2011 by the Fiske Guide to Colleges; one of the nation’s Most Grueling Colleges in 2010 by The Huffington Post; the number three HBCU in the nation for 2011 by U.S. News and World Report; and as one of American’s Best Colleges for three consecutive years by Forbes magazine.
Prominent alumni include Martin Luther King Jr., Nobel Peace Prize winner and civil and human rights non-violent leader; Dr. David Satcher, former U.S. Surgeon General and director of the National Center for Primary Care of Morehouse School of Medicine; Shelton “Spike” Lee, filmmaker and president of 40 Acres & A Mule Productions; Samuel L. Jackson, Academy Award-nominated actor; Maynard H. Jackson, founder of Jackson Securities and the first African American mayor of Atlanta; and Nima A. Warfield, the first African American Rhodes Scholar from an HBCU.
**News Release of the Morehouse College Office of Communications
Editor’s Note: Ms. Gwen Ifill is a member of Metropolitan AME Church in Washington, DC where the Rev. Dr. Ronald Braxton is the pastor.
9. NEWS FROM THE CAPITAL DISTRICT CONFERENCE (19TH EPISCOPAL DISTRICT):
The 115th Session of the Capital District Conference convened at Mt. Sinai AME Church in Pretoria, Mamelodi, Republic of South Africa.
The Rev. P. J. Mengoai, PE opened this meeting a warm welcome that only he can master in that way.
This was such an excellent event with six sermons and inspirational music. The District Choir, together with the visiting Choir from John E. Hunter AME Church, Soshanguve, lifted our spirits in song.
We thank the Lord for our Presiding Elder, all District pastors, their spouses, delegates and visitors filling a 600-capacity community hall.
As we left, through the appreciation by Rev. M. J. Modibedi who said, "we all agreed that this was a stress-free conference and can't wait for next year's conference."
**Submitted by the Rev. G. P. Lesito
10. THE 8TH EPISCOPAL DISTRICT MID-YEAR CONVOCATION PASTORAL APPOINTMENTS:
Bishop Guidry and the 8th Episcopal District were blessed to have the Senior Bishop of the African Methodist Episcopal Church, the Rt. Rev. John Richard Bryant as the Preacher for the Mid-Year Convocation. Bishop Bryant challenged those attending the Mid-year Convocation to "Get a New Attitude."
The 8th Episcopal District Mid-Year Appointments:
- The Rev. Sylvester Marshall, appointed Presiding Elder St. James/Lake providence
- The Rev. Carolyn Habersham, Turner Chapel, Greensburg
- The Rev. Lorenzo Neal, New Bethel-Jackson -
- The Rev. Joseph Parker/the Rev. Birdie Parker, Trinity-West Point
- The Rev. Frances Cook, Ebenezer-Brookhaven
- The Rev. Sherry Tillman Wesley, St John-Biloxi.
- The Rev. Sheila Haywood, Hazlehurst
- The Rev. Von Henry Greater Payne, Fulsome
- The Rev. Fred Fields, Salter -Bogalusa.
The following pastors were located and given Evangelist Papers:
- The Rev. Randy Brown - Located for health reasons
- The Rev. Carolyn Johnson given Evangelist Papers
- The Rev. Andrew Simms given Evangelist Papers
**Submitted by the Rev. Dr. Maurice Wright
11. PASTORAL APPOINTMENTS OF THE 3RD EPISCOPAL DISTRICT MID-YEAR MEETING HELD MARCH 24 – 26 IN COLUMBUS, OHIO:
- The Dr. Betty Holley, who served as pastor of Central Chapel AME Church in Yellow Springs, Ohio was made Presiding Elder of the Springfield District (Ohio Annual Conference)
- The Rev. Dr. Brenda Gregg, who was the Presiding Elder of the Springfield District, was appointed Conference Evangelist.
- The Rev. Timothy Liggins was appointed pastor of Central Chapel AME Church in Yellow Springs, Ohio
12. JOIN OTHER AMES IN PRAYER APRIL 13, 2011 FOR CONNECTIONAL DAY OF PRAYER:
Mark your calendars and join other AMEs in prayer
About the Connectional Day of Prayer
Prayer is fundamental to Christian discipleship and everyday living. This 3rd Connectional Day of Prayer of the African Methodist Episcopal Church worldwide is a continuing Gospel and Christian education ministry of our Connectional Church. Its basic purpose is to encourage and edify all the people of God in the African Methodist Episcopal Church to make their everyday lives a “prayer”. Please join us in “Innovative” ways:
Wednesday, APRIL 13, 2011: April 12th Midnight until Midnight April 13th
24 Hours with times set aside for…
Fasting
Prayer Calls
Prayer Vigils
Prayer Walks
A One Day Prayer Retreat
Prayer Focused Bible Study
and much more!
Be “innovative” as you plan for this Prayer Day In the life of our Church!
Let’s fill April 13th with prayer, prayer programs and activities!
*Connectional Day of Prayer was endorsed by the Council of Bishops and the 48th Quadrennial General Conference Commission in 2008, and has become an annual observance of the General Church since that time.
“If my people who are called by my name humble themselves, pray, seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin and heal their land. Now my eyes will be open and my ears attentive to the prayer that is made in this place.” 2 Chronicles 7:14-15 (NRSV)
Submitted by: Bishop Sarah F. Davis, Chairperson - Prayer Committee
49th Session of the General Conference, Prayer Director
13. AMEC DEPARTMENT OF GLOBAL WITNESS AND MINISTRY SPEAK OUT ALERT:
Fernande Saint-Paul and her family were thankful for the tin roof over their newly constructed temporary shelter.
More than a year after the earthquake, almost 1 million Haitians are still living in deplorable camp conditions. Food insecurity is on the rise, unemployment is at an all time high and women and girls are increasingly exposed to gender-based violence.
Your voice can make a difference!
Today, March 30, or tomorrow, March 31, CALL the Capitol Switch Board at (202) 224-3121 and ask for the office of one of your members of Congress. Once you're transferred, let them know that it's important for Congress to fully fund the President’s 2012 budget request for Haiti and to prioritize the needs and voices of the poorest in Haiti’s reconstruction.
Please add your voice to the millions of Haitians calling for a renewed reconstruction process, including a CWS co-sponsored advocacy delegation on Capitol Hill today.
Make the call.
Want more information?
Click Here: http://www.churchworldservice.org/site/PageServer?pagename=how_adv_alerts_33011
**Received from Dr. George F. Flowers, Executive Director, Global Witness and Ministry
14. DEPARTMENT OF GLOBAL WITNESS AND MINISTRY SITUATION REPORT # 3:
Church World Service
Expanded and Revised Emergency Appeal: Japan Earthquake and Tsunami
Appeal # 699-Y
AMOUNT: $2,827,000 (Expanded from the original $2,590,450, issued March 16.)
Amount of funds received to date for the appeal: $466,171
March 28, 2011
Summary of Situation: On March 11, a 9.0-magnitude earthquake struck the northeastern coast of Japan, causing widespread and serious damage to infrastructure and to human life. A massive earthquake-triggered tsunami followed, washing away large parts of several coastal cities. The worst affected areas were Iwate, Mijagi, Fukushima and Ibarki prefectures. The subsequent and ongoing crisis at the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant continues to pose an additional, and grave, challenge to an already serious situation.
According to a March 25 report by Kyoto University, Citigroup expects the disaster to cost 5-10 trillion yen in damages to housing and infrastructure, while Barclays Capital estimates economic losses in the region of 15 trillion yen – about US $183.7 billion, roughly three percent of Japan*s GDP. The Japanese government has described the destruction and crisis as the “worst since World War II.”
As of March 27, 17,000 people are still missing; 10489 died and thousands more have been injured, according to police figures, and those numbers are expected to rise. There are still approximately 300,000 people living in more than 2,300 evacuation sites across Japan, though there are hundreds of thousands - - who remain in their homes but are dependent on the sites because there is a lack of available food, stove, fuel and other necessary items.
There are also reports that many people are suffering from influenza and diarrhea at evacuation sites and that medicines are not reaching them consistently. Those with pre-existing conditions and the aged population are particularly vulnerable. Phone lines are also down and mobile phones are not working across a number of affected regions so many people are unable to contact their family members or check whether their family members have survived. In Rikuzentakata City, Iwate Prefecture has been restored since the earthquake.
One third of the city*s government officials lost their lives. As a result, there has been virtually no humanitarian coordination, and the distribution of relief items has been stalled.
Other challenges in other areas: storing dead bodies; clearing rubble; hospitals that remain closed or are limited in services they can provide. Also, in some areas, humanitarian supplies remain in short supply, with, in some cases, only a third of the food needs being met, while there are reports that in some areas, there are no humanitarian supplies yet being delivered.
CWS Response: As noted in March 16 appeal, CWS response centers on emergency relief support to at least 5,000 families, about 25,000 individuals, now living at 100 evacuation sites in the northeastern area of Japan – the prefectures of Miyagi, Fukushima, Iwate, Ibaragi and Tochigi.
This revived appeal elaborates and, in some cases, modifies or changes activities outlined in CWS* initial appeal.
CWS is working with the following partners:
++ Japan Platform, an international emergency humanitarian aid consortium of 32 Japanese non-governmental organizations, the business community and the Japan Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
++ Peace Boat, a Japan-based international non-governmental and non-profit organization that works to promote peace, human rights, equal and sustainable development and respect for the environment. In this emergency, this partner has been mobilizing its extensive network of volunteers for relief efforts in Ishinomaki City of Miyagi Prefecture.
++ Civic Force is a registered not-for-profit organization in Japan that was established in the wake of Niigata Earthquake in 2004. Its mission is to provide swift and effective emergency services in case of large-scale crises in Japan.
++ Japan Lutheran Emergency Relief: Japan Lutheran Emergency Relief, known by the acronym JLER, has been formed by Japan Evangelical Lutheran Church, Kinki Evangelical Lutheran Church, Japan Lutheran Church and West Japan Evangelical Lutheran Church specifically as a response to the current crisis.
++ National Christian Council in Japan, known as NCCJ, a grouping of 33 member and associate member churches and organizations. The networks to which NCCJ relates include the Christian Conference of Asia and the World Council of Churches.
CWS-supported assistance to some 25,000 individuals began on March 21 and will continue through September. Activities 1 and 2 (below) begun and the rest will be phased in over coming weeks.
1). With JPF (specifically, JPF Partner NICCO) in Miyagi prefecture (Natori City and Iwanuma City) and Iwate Prefecture (Rikuzentakata City). Work forces on stationary clinics and mobile medical services to serve at least 7,500 individuals, with Tohoku International Clinic in Natori City in Miyagi Prefecture serving as the hub for stationary medical services, mobile medical teams will be sent out to Iwanuma City as well as Rikuzentakata City where most of the city government functions have been lost due to the tsunami. Also: Distribution of basic hygiene items, temporary toilets and communications services for at least 5,000 individuals in evacuation centers.
2). With Peace Boat, Civic Force and JLER, in Miyagi prefecture (Ishinomaki and Kesennuma City); work forces on distribution of requested relief items from evacuation centers which include food, water, hygiene items, clothing and fuel to at least 10,000 individuals. Based on needs identified by evacuation centers in Ishiomaki (Peace Boat) and Kesennuma Cities of Miyagi Prefecture (Civic Force), partners will arrange 4-10 ton trucks to go from Tokyo to Ishionmak/Kesennuma City to ensure basic relief items reach these centers, filling some of the humanitarian gaps.
3). With OXFAM Japan – Iwate Prefecture (Ofunato City, Miyako City and Kamaishi City). Work focuses on counseling services for pregnant women and women with young children (1,500 individuals). Working together with Oxfam*s partner, Japan Organization for International Cooperation on Family Services, and children living in crowded evacuation sites.
Budget: Total is $2,827,000. That includes $375,000 for medical services; $1,950,000 for relief items and distribution; $150,000 for counseling services; $200,000 for matching housing services; $152,000 for CWS and partner operation cost.
How to Help: Contributions to support CWS emergency response efforts in Japan may be sent to your denomination (Global Witness and Ministry - AMEC PO Box 20852 Charleston, SC 29413-0852) or to Church World Service, P.O. Box 968. Elkhart, IN 46515. (Appeal #699-Y).
Church World Service is a member of the ACT Alliance, a global coalition of churches and agencies engaged in development, humanitarian assistance and advocacy.
CWS Development and Humanitarian Assistance/CWS New York office: (212) 870-3151
Department of Global Witness and Ministry—African Methodist Episcopal Church: (843) 852-2645 or 852-2646
**Received from Dr. George F. Flowers, Executive Director, Global Witness and Ministry
15. ALTERED AT THE ALTAR:
*The Reverend Jarrett Britton Washington
Oftentimes it has been said that it is at the altar that the Lord will meet every single need you have. I recall that my mentor in the faith, the Reverend Dr Stafford J Wicker, Pastor of Antioch AME in Stone Mountain used to always sing an old hymn that simply said,
You have longed for sweet peace,
And for faith to increase,
And have earnestly, fervently prayed;
But you cannot have rest,
Or be perfectly blest,
Until all on the altar is laid.
Is your all on the altar of sacrifice laid?
Your heart does the Spirit control?
You can only be blest,
And have peace and sweet rest,
As you yield Him your body and soul.
Even right now I am thinking about the fact that every time I walk into a house of worship, one of the very first things I do is kneel at the altar and I began to have a talk with my Creator. I don't do it for show; I don't do it because I need someone to see me; but rather, I kneel because I believe that even in the act of my kneeling at the altar God sees, hears, and understands that I am humbling myself before His magnificent presence. I believe that we, in the body of believers, must come to the greater realization that no matter who we are we must one day, if not many days, have a life altering experience at the altar.
This past weekend I preached about the realities of living a miraculous-filled, mind-boggling lifestyle that places the believer in a situation where all they can do is expect God to alter their being. The overwhelming essence of the message was that too often we are waiting on people to do only what God has the ability to do. I thought about the fact that in the Hebrew the word for altar is 'mizbe'ah' which is a place of slaughter and sacrifice. I contend that in order for us to really have that real experience at the altar we have got to be slaughtered and sacrificed in the symbolic sense.
In this season of Lent, we know that we are preparing our minds, bodies and souls to reflect and be renewed by the greatest sacrifice in Christ Jesus. Yet, we are compelled to live and breathe by the scripture that teaches us that our flesh must be crucified/sacrificed daily (Galatians 5:24). I guess what I need you to understand is that in this life there is a process of slaughtering and sacrificing of your old self to bring forth the new creature God desires you to be. If in fact each day is full of new mercies then the purpose of the altar is to allow the man and woman of God to be made over and created anew in God's presence no matter how many times they kneel in humble adoration.
Too often believers are going to the altar and leaving unaltered. This doesn't have to be your story; rather, you ought to be able to proclaim that "I took it to the altar, and I was forever changed." What I love the most about the altar is the fact that your altar doesn't even have to be in a church. (Yes, I am a Pastor...) You ought to be able to create an altar in your home, in your office, or in your secret place. Many times you will be troubled throughout your day, and you need to just lay it all on the altar and you are unable to get to a house of worship. I challenge you on today, before you let go, or rather let in, lay it on the altar that you have built and ask God to change your disposition. Ask God to keep you in His perfect peace. Ask God to really remove from you the things that would cause you to do wrong. Remind yourself that the enemy desires to sift you as wheat, but you serve an awesome God that will give you peace in the midst of your storm. I want you to be perfectly blessed and totally yielded to God...you've just been altered at the altar! Please hit "REPLY" now and let me know if this week's message was helpful to your current situation?
*The Reverend Jarrett Britton Washington, M.Div., MACE is the pastor of New Bethel AME Church in Johns Island, South Carolina.
16. BUTLER UNIVERSITY AND AME-REARED RONALD NORED, JR. ARE IN THE NCAA FINAL FOUR – THEY ARE THE TEAM FOR THE AME CHURCH – WE SUPPORT OUR OWN:
Editor’s Note: This is such a nice story about Ronald Nored who was reared as an AME and apparently has not forgotten his AME roots. Kudos to his parents who planted the seed and to his grandparents. Ronald is a fine example and a living tribute to his late father, the Reverend Ronald Nored, Sr. The wonderful story appears in The Republic (Columbus, Indiana)
Going forward in life is mission for Butler’s Nored
INDIANAPOLIS — The house where Ronald Nored Jr. was raised in Alabama was the perfect training ground for his life at Butler University.
The Rev. Ronald Nored of the Bethel AME Church of Birmingham taught things similar to what basketball coach Brad Stevens teaches.
The pastor taught precepts from the Bible. The coach teaches what they call “The Butler Way” on a campus that hosts 4,900 students and is the smallest school that makes a habit of advancing in the NCAA tournament.
They talk about sacrifice, sharing, and working for the common good at Butler, and funny thing, so did Ronald Nored Sr., and that’s the way he lived his life until it was cut short from pancreatic cancer at 43 in 2003.
“At Butler, it’s not about you,” the junior guard said. “It’s a platform for going forward in life.”
This story appears in the print edition of The Republic (Columbus, Indiana). Subscribers of The Republic can read the entire story online by signing in here or in our e-Edition by clicking here.
Editor’s Note 2: Editor Sydnor's grandson, Calvin V attends VCU, so I am pulling for both teams
17. HAPPY BIRTHDAY SISTER LILY BOYD – 105-YEARS-OLD:
Mrs. Lily Boyd will celebrate her 105th birthday on March 30, 2011.
Please shower her with calls and cards as she embraces another year in God's care.
She is blessed and we have all been blessed to share from her knowledge and dedication to the Women's Missionary Society on all levels.
Our Conference WMS pauses to extend our expressions of love to this incredible woman.
Lily Boyd is a Life Member of the Tennessee Conference WMS.
She is a member of Lee Chapel, the Reverend Edward Lee Thompson, pastor. We join her family, church family and simply say, "Happy Birthday, Mrs. Boyd!”
Contact Information:
Mrs. Lily Boyd
2530 Walker Lane
Nashville, TN 37207
Telephone: 615-227-2776
**Submitted by Mrs. Linda F. Bentley
18. PAYNE CHAPEL AME CHURCH FOUNDER'S DAY HONORS OLDEST MEMBER:
On March 13, 2011, During the Founder’s Day Celebration Ms Anna Jeanette Chandler was honored as the Oldest Member of Payne Chapel AME Church. This is ever so appropriate as she is a true living testimony of the infinity of God’s Greatness. Ms Chandler has been a member of Payne Chapel AME Church Hamilton Ohio since her early teens with attendance in infancy.
Ms Chandler is currently the oldest member of Payne carrying on the Chandler Legacy of Service.
Her activities include but are not limited to the following:
• She is an active member of Payne Chapel AME.
• Member of Stewardess Board Number 1 then later Stewardess Board Number 2 once they combined
• Member of Gertrude Chandler Missionary Society/ attendee to all local and annual missionary meetings
• She was active in attending all planning meeting and church general conferences
• She was active in the choir all of her life until becoming ill.
In June 2010, Ms Chandler became critically ill and was thought to be on death’s door. God intervened. His miracle child rose from her ICU Bed with her mind intact and as strong as ever now on the road to walking again. The Doctors said she would not have any quality of life but God said differently. Ms Chandler met with all of her Doctors who took care of her and they were amazed and thrilled at how well she has recovered. She personally thanked each of them for helping.
She has been a miracle and blessing in all of our lives for the subsequent 89 years.
Payne Chapel AME was founded in 1842 and was initially the only Black Church in Hamilton, Ohio. The church was originally located on Monument Ave and Ludlow St. until relocating to its current location on 320 South Front St.
It is an honor and privilege for her to be the oldest member of Payne Chapel AME Church, her lifelong church home and holder of her spiritual and moral heart and soul.
19. WE HAVE "ARKS" TO BUILD:
*Michalynn Williams
Nothing communicates more powerfully than a person’s story. Within the story you will find a verbally painted portrait of what the speaker is trying to communicate to you. Some persons’ life stories are Picasso’s, some are Rembrandts, and others are stick figures scribbled in crayon yet they all still transmit feelings, emotions, stimulate thoughts, and even some spur action and inspire us to do something about the images we see in our minds like the description of a dirty shelter for animals might inspire us to go volunteer and help clean it up.
Our Bible is filled with thousands of these stories, and at the same time it is a letter directly from God to us! The Bible teaches us that the words in this Book are living, and sharper than any two edge sword. I can read something in here today, come back tomorrow and re-read the same passages and get something totally different; or see something entirely new!
I encourage each of you to open the cover of your Bible and on the very front inside cover write Dear whatever your name is. Now flip to the back, and on the back inside cover, write “Love, God.” Because the Bible is a letter directly to you!
Stories are important. One type of story is a testimony, which is what you say from the witness stand to communicate what has happened in your life as a result of God’s power. The Bible is filled with many testimonies. One such person was Noah.
I love me some Noah because of the Big Thing God called Noah to build. The biggest “Arks” I have to make are made whenever I have to speak publicly. I love speaking about God’s grace.
Years ago, I knew God had called me to deliver God’s message to God’s people at God’s specific time and place. After I came to accept I knew, I just knew it. I also came to realize, much like Noah, that I had an Ark, and couldn’t fathom how God would see me through to building it! But I can tell you God did!
Let’s imagine for a moment that it hasn’t rained in years, and imagine that God’s voice tells you a flood is coming and you need to build a boat. Now mind you, not just any boat, a great big boat, larger than a football field! And not only were you supposed to build this big boat, you were also going to fill it with two of every kind of animals on earth.
What would you think or do? What if, instead of being the one hearing this order from God, you’re the friend of Noah and your friend comes over to the house and tells you what God just said to him or her. Would you support him or her? Would you discourage him or her? Would you think your friend had lost his or her marbles and then go and talk about him or her behind his or her back?
We all have “Arks”; something God has called us to do individually, or collectively that seems larger than life, and an often times is. Arks are everywhere in our lives!
Even Jesus had an “Ark” of sorts. You see Jesus didn’t come to start a new religion. Jesus wasn’t content to give people a new belief system to replace their old one. That kind of thing rarely works because all that does is layer on rules and breeds confusion; and eventually people will walk away because they can’t keep up with it or because they realize it’s “not their cup of tea.”
Jesus brought the opposite; an entirely new way to live, and a system of totality. They very same system, that the world was initially created to follow! This system isn’t driven by an iron fist or laws, but by the transforming power of Love; the Kingdom of God.
Matthew 6:10 In what we know as the Sermon on the Mount Jesus explains how to pray and in that prayer ask for God’s Kingdom to be brought to earth just as it exist in Heaven. What does that mean for you and me today? God is telling us to bring the Kingdom here. Now, that my friend is an “Ark” if I ever saw one!
For the last two thousand years that is what the church in essence has been doing, building up the church and edifying the saints, fulfilling the Great Commission.
All one has to do is turn on the television or pick up a newspaper to see that things are changing and that God is doing something. You might not know or agree on what that something is, and may I suggest if you don’t know, you best be getting yourself to a church that can help you, because it’s obvious that something is going on.
You see that something is our “Ark”; that something is the message God calls us do; to minister to God’s people and to help them prepare for what’s coming next. The Bible is very clear about what that is, but so many people haven’t heard it or understood it, or refuse to accept it.
We are called upon to help, teach and guide people through it.
We are called to evangelize. That’s not just a call for the clergy; God’s call is for all of us, especially in this austere economic environment. Most of us can think back to several years ago, before the economic bust of 2008. I back then things were looking pretty good, the economy was booming, churches were growing and shouting and praising God.
But that picture now looks very different. The clouds continue to roll in and God is calling is to build “Arks.” God is calling us to build “Arks” of safety for God’s people and to bring them into the Kingdom of God.
The Kingdom of God is, and has always been advancing. God’s Kingdom is not dead; it’s alive. God’s Kingdom is vibrant, growing, and always moving. We are called upon to do what we need to do to be in sync with the will of God and build “Arks” so that we can stand when the storms come. Like Noah and those who were on the Ark, we must be ready.
Let’s focus on God’s greatness, not our weakness and step out in faith.
*Michalynn Williams is a Member of Shorter Chapel AME Church in Franklin, Tennessee where the Rev. Dr. Charlotte B. Sydnor is the pastor
20. NOMINATION OF NEW WORLD METHODIST COUNCIL GENERAL SECRETARY:
The Search Committee for the appointment of a new General Secretary of the World Methodist Council met at Lake Junaluska, North Carolina (USA) March 24-25.
After reviewing a large number of applicants from five continents and interviewing five persons, the Search Committee is unanimously nominating Bishop Ivan Abrahams to be the next General Secretary of the World Methodist Council in succession to Rev. Dr. George Freeman who will be retiring.
The election will take place at the World Methodist Council meeting in Durban, South Africa August 1-3. The precise date of the appointment will be confirmed subsequent to the election. Bishop Abrahams is currently the presiding Bishop of the Methodist Church of Southern Africa.
The World Methodist Council is a Christian World Communion composed of 74 member Churches representing seventy-five million people from more than 132 countries.
John Barrett
Chairperson, Search Committee
Submitted by Bishop John White, Ecumenical Officer and AME Endorsing Agent
21. I CRACKED THE CODE FOR NEW YORK STYLE PIZZA! – YOU CAN MAKE IT AT HOME:
Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III
The 20th Editor of The Christian Recorder
This has nothing to do with religion or the AME Church per se. I am so excited about this, that I just had to share this information with my AME Church family.
Friends and family know that I love to cook. I cook many types of dishes. I do Italian, Mexican, Asian, down home cooking and love to barbeque. People tell me that my spare ribs are “off the chart” and the reputation of my ribs is that “You don’t need teeth to eat Sydnor’s barbeque spare ribs. My spareribs have been referred to as gum-ribs because they are so tender that one does not need teeth to enjoy my ribs.” If anyone has false teeth, they can take out their teeth and eat my ribs with their gums.
I can duplicate most ethnic dishes, e.g. Italian, Asian, Mexican, etc., but the one dish, up to this point, that I couldn’t duplicate, was the New York style pizza. I had been adding, basil, oregano, garlic, parmesan cheese, parsley, fennel seed, etc. to the tomato sauce base; and the sauce was excellent, but I couldn’t duplicate the New York style pizza. I always have a slice of pizza when I travel to New York City.
I have tried duplicating New York pizza, but couldn’t do so until Saturday when I acted upon my suspicion. I had a suspicion, but thought to myself, that it couldn’t be that simple. And, now I know it was that simple.
As important as the sauce is, as with Philadelphia hoagies and cheese steaks, the bread is important! The dough is an important part of the pizza. I might add that no meat is needed on the New York pizza.
Here’s the dough recipe, which can also be used to make French or Italian bread.
Pizza dough or French Bread
3 cups of plain flour
1 teaspoon of salt
Combine flour and salt.
1 Tablespoon of yeast (or one package of yeast) dissolved in 1 cup or so of warm water. A teaspoon of sugar will help to activate the yeast.
After the yeast has dissolved, mix the dissolved yeast with the flour and salt to make a stiff dough.
Knead, cover and let rise to double in bulk in a warm place.
(You can double or triple this recipe.)
Here is the secret Pizza sauce recipe; don’t add anything to it; and it is so simple.
The secret pizza sauce: plain canned crushed tomatoes in puree (and you probably can use tomato sauce) – Heinz, Contadina, a store brand or any brand will work just fine. Just plain old canned crushed tomato in puree. Do not get the garlic, basil or other flavored canned crushed tomato sauces. Just plain old canned crushed tomato in puree.
Make the New York Pizza
Spread the dough on a pizza pan. Spread sauce over the dough. Sprinkle Mozzarella cheese (and some provolone, if you wish). Bake on the bottom shelf of the oven at 500 degrees for about 10 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the crust is done. A slotted pizza pan works best. When the pizza is done - Enjoy! Sprinkle some Parmesan cheese on the sliced pizza and you have an authentic New York pizza!
And let me reiterate, you do not need meat on a New York pizza, but you can add meat if you wish.
If you want to try this recipe out for a quick New York pizza simply purchase Thomas’ English Muffins, spread the plain canned crushed tomatoes in puree sauce and cheese on each slice, bake as you would a pizza and serve.
22. A TRIBUTE TO THE LATE REVEREND NOLAN T. PITTS:
The Rev. Nolan t. Pitts, retired AME itinerant elder and beloved columnist for The Christian Recorder passed away on March 30, 2011:
The Rev. Nolan T. Pitts, retired AME Itinerant Elder and beloved columnist for The Christian Recorder passed today. Funeral arrangements are being made and a formal announcement is forthcoming from the 11th Episcopal District and from Mrs. Ora L. Easley, Administrator, The Clergy Family Information Center.
The Rev. N. T. Pitts, Author, Counselor, Teacher, Humorist, a retired Itinerant Elder lived in Eatonville, Florida, has been writing a column for The Christian Recorder since 2008 and his column has been an inspiration to all of us. The Rev. Nolan T. Pitts never missed a deadline and as his health declined, he wrote articles ahead of time. The Christian Recorder still has articles written by the Rev. Pitts that will appear in the print edition. He wrote a Father’s Day column, which we couldn’t get into the paper in time for Father’s Day last year and we will publish that article for Father’s Day 2011.
The Rev. Nolan T. Pitts will be missed.
- To the Editor:
Re: The Death of
Columnist the Rev. Nolan T. Pitts
He will be SORELY missed. I so enjoyed all of his commentaries. He was a pillar of wisdom and a true role model for me and the AME Church. At this moment, I feel such tremendous loss. I never met the man, but he was indeed a father figure to my ministry. My prayer is that he rests in peace and enjoys his heavenly reward. Praise God from Whom all Blessings Flow.
The Rev Nadine Rhodes-Marsh,
Pastor, St John AME Church, Monroe, Louisiana
- To the Editor:
Re: The Death of TCR Columnist the Rev. Nolan T. Pitts
I really enjoyed his wisdom! WOW!
The Rev. Cheryl Blake Hoskins
-To the Editor:
Re: The Death of TCR Columnist the Rev. Nolan T. Pitts
The news of the passing away of the Christian Recorder, the Retired Presiding Elder Nolan T. Pitts, is sad and a bog time loss.
I have not met him in person but I have been accustomed to him through his writings in the Christian Recorder. In fact, his writings have always been inspiration and it has increased my respect for older persons' wisdom. He reflected and shared his wisdom in a great way.
The Lord, indeed, gave us a great person in the Presiding Elder, who, through his hand and pen, has reached us across the cold waters of the Atlantic seas. To God we are heartily grateful for the life well spent and pray for his eternal rest and peace.
I pray the comfort, consolation and strength of the Pitt family in the Lord Jesus Christ, as well as the readers of his column.
Warm and kind regards.
atamec.188@gmail.com
- To the Editor:
Re: The Death of TCR Columnist the Rev. Nolan T. Pitts
He will be SORELY missed. I so enjoyed all of his commentaries. He was a pillar of wisdom and a true role model for me and the AME Church. At this moment, I feel such tremendous loss. I never met the man, but he was indeed a father figure to my ministry. My prayer is that he rests in peace and enjoys his heavenly reward. Praise God from Whom all Blessings Flow.
Rev Nadine Rhodes-Marsh, Pastor, St John AME Church, Monroe, Louisiana
23. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
We sadly announce that Brother Derrick Byfield, brother of Ainsley M. Byfield, husband of Presiding Elder E. Anne Henning Byfield, died on Friday, March 25, 2011 in Kingston, Jamaica. He was an artist, graphic designer, and retired head of graphics for the daily newspaper. He leaves to mourn two brothers Dennis and Ainsley, a daughter Lydia, and three grandchildren. The funeral will be held Saturday, April 9, 2011 at Holy Cross Catholic Church, Kingston, Jamaica. Sadly as well, as his son-in-law will be buried on Sunday, April 10, 2011 in Kingston.
All condolences can be sent to Mr. Ainsley and the Rev. Anne Henning Byfield,
620 East 44th Street
Indianapolis, IN 46205-1808
Office phone: (317) 283-0140
Fax: (317(283-2334)
anneains@aol.com
The Rev. E. Anne Henning Byfield,
Presiding Elder, North District
www.annehenningbyfield.org
24. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICE:
We are saddened to share the news of the passing of Mrs. Annie Mae Webster, sister of the Reverend Dr. Benjamin R. Booker, Presiding Elder Emeritus of the West Tennessee Conference of the Thirteenth Episcopal.
Visitation:
Friday, April 1, 2011
4:00-6:00 p.m.
New Salem Missionary Baptist Church
995 South Fourth Street
Memphis, TN
901-774-6992
Homegoing Celebration:
Cathedral of Faith Community Church
2212 Jackson Avenue
Memphis, TN 38112
901-327-1616
The Reverend Calvin L. Booker, Pastor
Services provided by:
R. S. Lewis and Sons Funeral Home
374 Vance Avenue
Memphis, TN
9012-526-3264
Messages of Condolences may be sent to:
The Reverend Dr. Benjamin R. Booker
7252 Kingsland Drive
Memphis, TN 38125
Email: nbooker96@aol.com
25. CLERGY FAMILY BEREAVEMENT NOTICES AND CONGRATULATORY ANNOUNCEMENTS PROVIDED BY:
The Clergy Family Information Center
Bishop Carolyn Tyler Guidry, Chair
Commission on Social Action
Ora L. Easley, Administrator
AMEC Clergy Family Information Center
E-mail: Amespouses1@bellsouth.net
Web page: http://www.amecfic.org/
Phone: (615) 837-9736 (H)
Phone: (615) 833-6936 (O)
Cell: (615) 403-7751
BLOG: http://ameccfic.blogspot.com /
Twitter: https://twitter.com/AMEC_CFIC
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/The-AME-Church-Clergy-Family-Information-Center/167202414220
26. 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.
