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November 8, 2004
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oe ) :
Vol. 154 No.3
Bishop Samuel L. Green
Held His First Annual
Conference in Namibia
by Albert Biwa
Presiding Elder,
Bureau Chief,
Namibia
(Reprinted-
A.M.E. Herald)
The 50th Session of
the Namibia Annual
Conference was held
from September 1-5,
2004 at St. John’s
A.MLE. Church, Wal-
visbay. Bishop Samuel
L. Green, Sr., is the Presiding Prelate.
Five hundred worshippers sang “And Are
We Yet Alive,” one of the most popular hymns
of African Methodism. The resounding voices
filled the spacious Kuisebmond Community
Hall on September 1, 2004.
The Host Pastor and his wife, Rev. Albert
E. Biwa and Mrs. Biwa of St. John’s A.M.E.
Church, left no stone unturned in order to
make the inlanders feel comfortable to the
coastal winds and wet climate changes. The
Rev. William A. Balie, Presiding Elder of the
Hoachanas District and Pastor of the Richard
Allen A.M.E. Church, Swakopmund, delivered
the Annual Sermon on the theme, “Moving
From Alpha to Omega People.” The preach-
er encouraged the worshippers and said, “We
Please turn to page 6
Po vee soe er
The Desert Mountain
One Hundred and
Eighteenth Annual
Conference
Bishop
Samuel L. Green
Rev. Dr. Cecelia
Williams Bryant
Right Reverend
John R. Bryant
Under the dynamic and innovative leader-
ship of our Episcopal team, the Right Rever-
end John R. Bryant and Rey, Dr. Cecelia Williams
Bryant, Episcopal Supervisor, the dynamic
Fifth Episcopal District is ready for another
powerful, Christ-centered quadrennial.
Our Episcopal leaders returned filled with the
Holy Spirit and ready for continued progressive,
creative ministry to the 118th Session of the
Desert Mountain Annual Conference. Bishop
John kept reminding us of the theme for this
conference year, “That the World Might Know
Jesus,” theme text, Matthew 28:18-20: “There-
fore go and make disciples of all nations, bap-
tizing them in the name of the Father and of
the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching
them to obey everything | have commanded
you. And surely | am with you always, to
the very end of the age” (NIV). “This is what
we are about. Go ye into all the world and tell
— proclaim Jesus!” he shouted with great joy.
THE OFFICIAL ORGAN OF THE AFRIC
Li
— |
»
\
AFRICAN MetHopist EpiscopaL CHURCH
| BISHOP CAROLYN TYLER GUIDRY
- (323) 574-4332
Chair, Social Action Commission
A.M.E. Church
A.M.E. CHURCH KICKS OFF VOTER MOBILIZATION FOR 2004 ELECTION
(Los Angeles, CA) The African Methodist Episcopal Church (A.M.E.), a 217-year-
old international body, has kicked off its A.M.E. V-Alert campaign for 2004 in the
summer of 2003. The Council of Bishops endorsed the work and voter registra-
tion was begun in 49 states, the District of Columbia and the Virgin Islands, spear-
headed by the connectional Lay Organization (CLO).
Now in the final stretch of Election Campaign season, Bishop Carolyn Tyler Guidry,
chair of the A.M.E. Church’s Social Action Commission, challenges the sons and
daughters of African Methodism to follow the example of CLO President Jesse
Burns who received the torch begun in Philadelphia when Richard Allen and other
freed Africans claimed not only their freedom from slavery, but their right to eco-
nomic self-sufficiency and self-determination.
“Our Council of Bishops led by Bishop Vashti McKenzie and our Senior Bishop
Philip R. Cousin have called for support of the A.M.E. V-Alert movement. | join
with her, and my colleagues, remembering that in Mississippi, where | was born,
there appeared to be little knowledge that slavery had been abolished. In my
early years, voting was a life-threatening event. Now, we must remind our young
that it is their time to make a difference,” says Bishop Guidry.
“It is no accident that God led our church’s leadership to give me this opportu-
nity to serve to stimulate social action among our 6,000 congregations. 1 start
with Election 2004!!! On November 2, 2004, we must be a formidable force in our
communities, voting, insuring that at least five other people vote, providing trans-
portation to the polls, volunteering to work at the polls, networking with other
groups, and trouble shooting for those who are being intimidated and denied
access to the polls and in general providing information,” Bishop Guidry urges.
If you need assistance, go to the Lay Organization website at amec-connection-
allay.org and the A.M.E. Church website at ame-church.com.
The mission of the A.M.E. Church’s voter mobilization is to INSPIRE and ENCOUR-
AGE and create a sense of urgency for a strong voter turnout in the states, cities,
towns, communities, and neighborhoods where the churches are planted for
ministry. It is GOOD STEWARDSHIP and consistent with the A.M.E. commitment to
self-help, self-reliance, and self-determination. Spread the word! |
Bishop Cornal G.
Henning, Sr.
Presiding Elders Michele R. Goodloe and Rev. Hilton
The Resolution of the 94th Session of
the East Mississippi Annual Conference
Mrs. Yvonne
Henning-Parks
Bishop Senses Challenge and Change
The Right Reverend Cornal Garnett Henning, Sr.
Presiding Prelate of the Eighth Episcopal District
Mrs. Yvonne Henning-Parks
Supervisor of Women’s Missionary Society and Y.P.D.
The Reverend Jacob W. Hilton, D.D., Host Presiding Elder
The Reverend Michele R. Goodloe, D.D., Co-Host Presiding Elder
The Reverend Ray Jackson, Host Pastor
Please turn to page 4
:)
N METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH
Price: $1.25
))
|
|
\\
BISHOP
VASHTI
McKENZIE
Issues an
A.M.E. Call
to Vote
2004
The 2004 Presidential Election is critical to
the progress, production, and prosperity of our
nation. The future is in the hands of those who
exercise their right and privilege to vote. Eve-
ry vote is important and every vote will count
in this election.
There are a lot of grassroots intimidation
and scare practices being reported nationwide.
Inform our members that there will be a Vot-
er’s Rights Hotline starting October 14 thru
November 2, 2004. Attorneys will be available
to take calls when voters are denied their right
or to report illegal intimidation activities. The
nationwide toll-free number is 1-(866) Our-
Vote or 1-(866) 687-8683. More information
is available on the Internet at www.unity04.net.
Sunday, October 3i, 2004 is being desig-
nated “Protect Our Vote and Our Voice Day.”
Voters should be encouraged in all of our con-
gregations to:
+ Locate your polling place prior to Election
Day!
Vote on Election Day!
Vote Early!
Every vote counts! Your vote counts!
If denied your yote, call Voter’s Rights Hot-
line: 1-(866) 687-8683
Report scare tactics to Voter’s Right Hot-
line: 1-(866) 687-8683
Call four people to go vote on Tuesday, No-
vember 2, 2004
Buddy Check — before the polls close check
with family members, neighbors, and friends
to see if they voted.
Be sure that members on sick and shut- in
lists and college students vote via absentee
ballots.
+ Elderly or impaired members are provided
transportation either via church van or in-
dividual volunteers.
This is an important A.M.E. Call to Action!
We must guard against those persons and
organizations that desire to suppress our vote
and our voice. Our forebears fought long and
hard for us to vote. Let’s do them proud and
“Lift Every Voice and Sing” through the bal-
lot box on November 2, 2004!
Bishop Vashti
McKenzie
. vO vere
.
Report of the Committee
on Christian Education
The 104th Session
of the
East Tennessee
Annual Conference
Thirteenth Episcopal District
THE AFRICAN METHODIST
EPISCOPAL CHURCH
September 15-18, 2004
To Bishop Vashti Murphy McKenzie and
Supervisor Stan McKenzie and to the East
Tennessee Annual Conference:
Please turn to page 7
Please turn to page 3
===== DSC03584.JPG =====
THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER
November 8, 2004
Editorial
Is It Ignorance or Incompetence That We, A.M.E.’s, Are Not Telling Our “Good News” to All of the World?
S THE JESUS CHRIST that we
preach about just the Messiah
for our local churches? Is
His saving grace for all of
the world or just available
to those who come to
church? Do we take the
“Great Commission” seriously?
On numerous occasions, I have attended meetings,
visited cities, and looked at weekend editions of the local
newspapers to see if any of our A.M.E. Churches were list-
ed in the church directory, and to my dismay,
more often than not, our churches are not list-
ed. That’s not the fault of the newspapers; that’s our
fault, the fault of the pastors and the leadership in our local churches. I won’t even mention that I
look in hotel directories to see if any of our churches are listed; I have never seen an A.M.E.
Church listed in a hotel directory. Other churches are listed. A conversation with the hotel man-
agement would probably correct the omission. And, oftentimes, A.M.E. Church information in
the Yellow Pages of local telephone books is incorrect, not to mention the dated information on
answering machines!
What I am getting at is that some of us are not doing our “homework” in telling the “Good
News” of Jesus Christ to “all of the world.” For far too many of us, Jesus Christ is just a “local”
Savior; just for those who happen to attend our worship services. I have heard many preachers and
lay persons lament about the folks who don’t attend church. Perhaps we need to find ways to
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757. 850.5554 / chsydnor@erols.com
The Christian Recorder welcomes letters from its readers on matters of general interest
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reach out and touch those who do not attend our worship services. Many of us need to revise our
paradigm for ministry and think beyond the walls of the local church.
The Great Commission enjoins us to, “Go to all the world!” I hope that the leadership of this
readership will answer as Isaiah did and say, “Here am I, send me!”
Need More Articles From Qur Episcopal Districts
I need more articles from our Episcopal Districts. We are doing a lot of things but we need to
share the “good news.” We need news in “real time,” not weeks and months later. We are still look-
ing for news from the Women In Ministry, the laity, the chaplains, youth, missionaries, from over-
seas, and from some of the other groups in our church. We would like to hear from some of our
bishops. Wouldn’t it be newsworthy to hear from some of our overseas bishops about their work
and challenges? Wouldn’t it be interesting to hear about the ministry of some of our overseas pas-
tors and their challenges? To hear from some of our service members who are serving in Iraq?
To hear from some of our young people who have gone off to college and the challenges they
face. Many of our churches are doing great things and we wish that they would share the “good
news” and the challenges of their ministry. We are asking our bishops, presiding elders, pastors,
and lay leadership to be more proactive in sharing the work of the African Methodist Episcopal
Church. I have heard off-line that several bishops have to make numerous changes in their Episco-
pal Districts. I would think that those changes would be newsworthy. Send your news to The
Christian Recorder.
Articles Are Needed \Well in Advance of Uoly Seasons and Special Observances
We need articles now related to Thanksgiving, Advent and Christmas, Martin Luther King, Jr.
Day, Black History Week. We need to be lining up those articles now. You cannot wait until
December to send in your Christmas articles. We need to receive them now, and not later than the
third week in November. Remember that the paper edition of The Christian Recorder has to be
prepared 2 - 4 weeks out. I do not intend to put in, nor do you want to read, news that’s “after the
fact” or “overcome by the event.” I would also suggest that when you write District-wide or
Annual Conference-wide articles that you run it past your bishop. I am sure that coordination can,
more times than not, be done telephonically. Articles related to the local church probably should
be coordinated with the pastor. In the A.M.E. Church, we have a “chain of supervision.” We are
not autonomous congregations. The online edition is another story because that news comes out
immediately. There is not a delay in getting out news and articles. Articles and news can be
processed and turned around immediately.
Having said all of that, I still strongly encourage articles and opinions from individuals. Our
leaders need to hear from you. Effective leaders need to hear the “good,” the “bad,” and the “indif-
ferent.” Outstanding leaders need to hear as much as possible, what’s going on in their areas of
operatios,
I need articles related to education, and especially constant update on what is happening at
Morris Brown College and at our other institutions. We need to keep our institutions out front; it’s
a means of advertising.
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Christian Recorder using the present web address http://www. the-christian-
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The Christian Recorder Online and the paper copy of The Christian Recorder will
not be entirely the same. You are encouraged to SUBSCRIBE TO THE CHRISTIAN
RECORDER: Send $26.00 payable to “The Christian Recorder” for a one-year sub-
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If you want to send articles to The Christian Recorder or to The Christian Recorder
Online, send them directly to me at chsydnor@erols.com
* The Official Website of the African Methodist Episcopal Church is: www.ame-
church.com
« A.M.E. Spouses Websites
http://www.amemswwpk.org and
The A.M.E./W.I.M. WEBSITE: www.amewim.org
Website for the AMEC Connectional Lay Organization
http://www.amec connectionallay.org/nome htm
More A.M.E. News: www.ameherald.com
http:\\www.connmswawo3.org
===== DSC03585.JPG =====
November 8, 2004
THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER
KNow YOUR CONNECTIONAL
OFFICER
THE CONNECTIONAL OFFICERS
OF THE AFRICAN METHODIST
EPISCOPAL CHURCH
Mrs. Jamesina Evans, Presiden!
Woman's Missionary Sooty
Rev. Michael K. Boule. Presiden!
Connectonal Council
Rev. John Q. Owens, Director
Social Achon
Mr. Jerry Turmer, Jr, President
Richard Allen Young Adult Council (RAYAC)
Mrs. Loretta Hill, Administrator
Christian Debutante-Master
Atty. William A. Marsh, Jr.
General Counsel
AM.E. Church
Rev. Vernon Lowe, President
Presiding Elder's Council
Mr. Willie Williams, President
Connectional Music Committee
Mrs. Paulette Cryer, Director
Young People's Division
Women's Missionary Society
Mr. Jesse L. Burns, Jr., President
Connectional Lay Organization
Mrs. Gwendolyn B. Williams, Executive Director
Health Commission
Mr. Emile W. Gauthier, President
Young People's Division
Women’s Missionary Society
Rev. Lois A. Poag-Ray, President
Women In Ministry (WIM)
Mrs. Ora L. Easley, President
CONN-M-SWAWO + PK’s
Rev. Henry Green, President
Sons of Allen
* Provided by Dr. Clement Fugh
(with thanks to Rev. Joe Darby)
CONNECTIONAL OFFICERS OF THE
A.M.E. CHURCH LISTED ABOVE
The Desert Mountain One
Hundred and Eighteenth
Annual Conference ——_—
Continued from page 1
At the 47th Quadrennial Conference of the
AMEC, the Colorado Conference was renamed
the Desert Mountain Conference. This new name
makes the conference title more descriptive of
the five state radius that makes up the confer-
ence — Colorado, Wyoming, Utah, New Mexi-
co, and Arizona.
The conference convened August 23-28, 2004
in Phoenix, AZ, hosted by Tanner Chapel AMEC.
Tanner Chapel is called the “Diamond in the
Desert” by the congregation. Pastor Benjamin
N. Thomas, Sr., his wife Beverly, and the Tanner
family pulled out all the stops and welcomed
the presiding elders and their districts. Rev.
Walter F. Fortune, Host P.E., Phoenix/Albu-
querque District, and Rev. Andrew L. Simpson,
Jr., PE., Rocky Mountain District, comprise
the Desert Mountain Annual Conference.
Women In Ministries (W.I.M.) on Monday
moming began the day with worship, then moved
into a full day of workshops entitled “Prepar-
ing for the Practical Side of Ministry” and
also “Taxes and Ministry,” facilitated by Rev.
Shelia Johnson, Shorter Community, Denver,
CO. The Hour of Power Worship Service at
noon, and a 7:00 p.m. Worship Service with
Bishop John, Rev. Dr. “C,” and a full house of
worshippers in attendance closed out the day.
On Tuesday morning, under the Spirit-
filled direction of Rev. “C,” the Women’s Mis-
sionary Society (W.M.S.) session convened
Please turn to page 6
CONNECTIONAL DATES
FOR THE
RICHARD ALLEN
YounG AbuLt CouNCcIL
June 23-26, 2005
Connectional Young Adult Conclave
Los Angeles, CA
On-line registration will begin October 1, 2004
Go to: www.rayac.org
BISHOP and DR. JOHN R. BRYANT
Host Episcopal Leadership
For more info please email:
inforayac@rayac.org
rly
+H
Allen Univer Morris Brown College
Ce
Telephone: 803-376-5700
Dickerson Theological Seminary
Admissions Office
44 Delane Drive
Columbia, South Carolina 29204
Telephone: 603-779-9226
Paul Quinn College
Admissions Office
3837 Simpson Stuart Road
Dallas, Texas 75241
Telephone: 214-302-3513
Edward Waters College Payne Theological Seminary
Admissions Office Admissions Office
1658 Kings Road PO. Box 474
Jacksonville, Florida 32203
Telephone: 904-355-3030
Wilberforce, Ohio 45384
Telephone: 937-376-2946
Ecumenical Officer / Endorsing Agent / Bishop E. Earl McCloud, Jr.
1st District / Bishop Richard Franklin Norris
Philadelphia, New Jersey, New York, Western New York, New England,
Delaware, and Bermuda
2nd District / Bishop Adam Jefferson Richardson
Baltimore, Washington, Virginia, North Carolina, and Western North
Carolina
3rd District / Bishop Robert Vaughn Webster
Ohio, West Virginia, Pennsylvania
4th District / Bishop Philip Robert Cousin
Ontario, Quebec, Nova Scotia, Minnesota, lowa, Wisconsin, Illinois,
Indiana, Michigan
5th District / Bishop John Richard Bryant
Washington, Oregon, California, Nevada, Utah, Arizona, New Mexico,
Colorado, Wyoming, Idaho, Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota,
Nebraska, Kansas, Missouri
6th District / Bishop William Phillips DeVeaux
Georgia, Southwest Georgia, Atlanta-North, Macon, South Georgia, and
Augusta
7th District / Bishop Preston Warren Williams, I
South Carolina
8th District / Bishop Cornal Garnett Henning, Sr.
Mississippi, Louisiana
9th District / Bishop Theodore Larry Kirkland
Alabama
10th District / Bishop Gregory G.M. Ingram
Texas, Northeast Texas, North Texas, Northwest Texas, Central Texas,
West Texas, and Southwest Texas
BISHOP DECATUR WARD NICHOLS
BISHOP HENRY WENDELL MURPH
BISHOP RICHARD ALLEN HILDEBRAND
BISHOP FREDERICK CALHOUN JAMES
BISHOP CORNELIUS EGBERT THOMAS
BISHOP JAMES HASKELL MAYO
BISHOP HAROLD BEN SENATLE
BISHOP ROBERT THOMAS, JR.
Historiographer/Director of Research and Scholarship/
Editor of A.M.E. Review
Dr. Dennis C. Dickerson
Treasurer/Chief Financial Officer
Dr. Richard Allen Lewis
General Secretary/CIO
Dr. Clement Fugh
Secretary/Treasurer of the Sunday School Union
Dr. Johnny Barbour, Jr.
Executive Director of Global Witness and Ministry
Dr. George F. Flowers
Lay Member:
Dr. J.B. Flowers, Jr.
Clergy:
The Reverend Vonciel Hill
The Reverend Leeomia Kelly
THE AMEC —A GLOBAL CHURCH WITH A GLOBAL WITNESS
RETIRED BISHOPS OF THE A.M.E. CHURCH
GENERAL OFFICERS -OF THE A.M. ES*#CHURGH
JUDICIAL C OUIN CTLs -O FEE A.M.E. CHURCH
Judicial Council, Clergy Alternates:
The Reverend Glenda F. Hodges
The Reverend Delman Howard
Shorter College
Admissions Office
Districts 16 - 20
Monrovia College
Monrovia, Liberia, West Alrica
72114
ttle Rock, Arkansas
R.R, Wright Theological Seminary
11360 Bodsa Road
Republic of South Africa
Turner Theological Seminary (ITC)
Admissions Office
673 Beckwith Street, N.W.
Atlanta, Georgia 30314
Telephone: 404-527-7785
Sianne School
P.O. Box 55, Mpopoma
Bulawayo, Zi
Wilberforce University nh ee
Admissions Office
Wilberforce, Ohio 45384
Telephone: 513-376-2911
11th District / Bishop McKinley Young
Bahamas, Florida
12th District / Bishop Richard Allen Chappelle, Sr.
Arkansas, Oklahoma
13th District / Bishop Vashti Murphy McKenzie
Tennessee, Kentucky
14th District / Bishop David Rwhynica Daniels, Jr.
Liberia, Sierra Leone, Ghana, Nigeria, Cote D’ Ivoire, and Togo-Benin
15th District / Bishop Samuel L. Green, Sr.
Cape, S.W.A. (Namibia), Kalahari, Eastern Cape, Queenstown, and
Angola
16th District / Bishop Carolyn Tyler Guidry
South America, Caribbean, London
17th District / Bishop Paul J. Kawimbe
Southeast Zimbabwe, Southwest Zambia, Northeast Zambia, Northwest
Zambia, Zambezi, Congo Brazzaville, Katanga, Kananga, Kinshasa,
Mbuji-mayi, Rwanda, and Burundi
18th District / Bishop Sarah Frances Davis
Lesotho, Swaziland, Botswana, Mozambique, and Northeast Lesotho
19th District / Bishop James Levert Davis
South African Provinces of Guateng and KwaZulu-Natal
20th District / Bishop Wilfred Messiah
Malawi North, Malawi South, Northeast Zimbabwe, Southwest
Zimbabwe, Central Zimbabwe
BISHOP JOHN HURST ADAMS
BISHOP FREDERICK HILBORN TALBOT
BISHOP HAMEL HARTFORD BROOKINS
BISHOP VINTON RANDOLPH ANDERSON
BISHOP FRANK CURTIS CUMMINGS
BISHOP HENRY ALLEN BELIN, JR.
BISHOP VERNON RANDOLPH BYRD
BISHOP ZEDEKIAH LAZETT GRADY
Executive Director of the Department of Employee Security
Dr. Jerome Harris
Executive Director, Department of Christian Education
Dr. Daryl Ingram
Executive Director, Department of Church Growth and
Development
Rev. James Wade
Editor, The Christian Recorder
Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor, III
Judicial Council, Lay
Alternate:
Tania E. Wright
eee ooOooooooemerr res
===== DSC03586.JPG =====
THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER
November 8, 2004
The Resolution of the 94th Session of the East Mississippi Annual Conference, Bishop Senses Challenge and Change
Continued from page 1
~ Rev. Samuel Boyd
HURRICANES, HEROES, AND HOPE
by Bill Dickens, Church School Superintendent
Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church, Tallahassee, FL 32310
The changing weather patterns in Florida over the last month have caused many of us to think a
lot about hurricanes. Several years ago, actor Denzel Washington portrayed the Miami-based boxer,
Reuben “Hurricane” Carter. The most dominant college football team in the country bears the nick-
name “Hurricanes.” Even some popular bars and restaurants will offer their patrons a mellow liba-
tion called “Hurricane Drinks.” At least, this is what I’m told since I happen to be a teetotaler.
Changing atmospheric conditions in the tropics and the Atlantic Ocean cause most of us to
focus our attention on the wind-patterns meteorologists refer to as hurricanes. Over the last month,
Florida has received unwelcome visitors by the name of Bonnie, Charley, Frances, Ivan and prob-
ably next, Jeanne or Karl. Who invited these guests? What is the purpose of their visits? Why
can't they just leave us alone?
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is the key Federal agency that
tracks, monitors and conducts extensive research about the behavior of hurricanes. It is through
the monitoring activities of NOAA that cities and communities can receive advanced notification
about the pending arrival of hurricanes thus allowing for some type of orderly preparation and if
need be, evacuation.
It is important to emphasize that NOAA is not in the business of hurricane prevention only hurri-
cane preparation. Once the NOAA computer models project the probable path of the storm, residents
can use this information to determine how best to protect their loved ones and private property.
What can the Bible provide to help our understanding of hurricanes and offer some semblance
of hope? A survey of the Scriptures would show that the term hurricane does not appear in the
text. That would make sense because the official usage of the term didn’t appear in Western liter-
ature until 1555 long after the Bible was canonized. But, we know that the essential characteris-
tics of hurricanes occurred long before 1555. If we use the word whirlwind or the dual occurrence
of strong wind and rain as proxies, we find many references to “hurricanes” in the Sacred Text.
The following passages are good references for hurricane research:
Please turn to page 7
| ANNOUCEMENT |
ols THE LORD IS MY SHEPHERD! (Psalm 23) =.
Reverend E. C. Faniel, Jr.
NINTH EPISCOPAL DISTRICT REVEREND R. J. KING, PASTOR
AFRICAN METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH BISHOP T. LARRY KIRKLAND, OFFICIATING
BisHop T. LARRY KIRKLAND
PRESIDING BISHOP. SERVICES WERE ENTRUSTED TO
BATTLE & DAVIDSON FUNERAL HOME
PO. Box 1049 ® PHENIx City, AL
334-298-895 | (PHONE)
334-298-8940 (Fax)
FUNERAL ARRANGEMENTS
FOR Rev. E. C. FANIEL, JR.
PASTOR OF ST. JOHN A.M.E. CHURCH
(Fr. MITCHELL), PHENIX City, AL
WHO PASSED AWAY ON SATURDAY MESSAGES OF CONDOLENCE
Ocr. 1G, 2cOO4. MAY BE SENT TO
SERVICE — THURSDAY BATTLE AND DAVIDSON FUNERAL HOME
OctToBEeR 21, 2004 aT 11:00 A.M. OR TO
NICHOLS CHAPEL A.M.E. CHURCH
P.O. Box | 293 St. JOHN A.M.E. CHURCH
HiGHway 165
Fr. MITCHELL, AL 36856
334-855-4970 (PHONE)
PHENIx City, AL 36867
334-298-2570 (PHONE)
334-298-2570 (FAX) CALL FIRST
Reverend Phillip Loman
CONDOLENCES TO THE FAMILY
1 14 EDEN AVENUE
WaYNESBORO, PA | 7268
FUNERAL — FRIDAY
SEPTEMBER 24, 2004, | 1:00 A.M
St. Paul A.M.E.CHURCH
30 WesT KING STREET
WayNEsBORO, PA | 7268
CHURCH TEL: 717-765-8111
Rev. JAHKIMMO SMITH, PASTOR
PLEASE REMEMBER THE LOMAN FAMILY IN
YOUR PRAYERS DURING THIS TIME OF
VIEWING OF REMAINS — THURSDAY THEIR BEREAVEMENT
SEPTEMBER 23,2004
7289 FM — 9700 P.M
GROVE-BOWERSOX FUNERAL HOME
#50 SOUTH BROAD STREET
GOD BLESS!
ORA L. EASLEY
The Committee on
lor stressed the meaning of the new District
Resolutions desires greatly theme, “Enlisting, Equipping, and Launching
to share the following: Leadership for Christ,” while challenging mem
WI he 94th § bers to “look to the hills from whence cometh
rp, a € Se » RR ”
ld a the 94th Session of the East Mis our help” and develop the faith to bring others
sissippi Conference convened at Turner Cha to Christ: “I sense both challenge and change.”
. > 3 > - ‘ © m —p
pel African Methodist Episcopal Church, said Bishop Henning in his opening message
ireenwood, M on Sey tember 16, 2004, at Words of Rey, 3:8 speak an important mes-
the call of Bishop ¢ Garnett Henning, St., sage about God’s faithfulness to the faithful
along with our beloved Supervisor, Mrs. Yvonne Jesus says our material limitations will not
{enning-Parks, who returned to us for four restrict our opportunities, only our disobedi-
nore years; and ence and lack of faithfulness”; and
Whereas, the message from our Chief Pas- Please turn to page 8
Investiture Banquet 2004
"FOR. OUuCLU.A TIME AS THis:
Esther 4:14
Bishop
Vashti Murphy McKenzie
Bishop
_ Gregory G. M. Ingram Preston W. Williams
Bishop Vashti Murphy McKenzie
President of the Council of Bishops
Bishop Gregory G. M. Ingram, Secretary
Bishop Preston W. Williams, Assistant Secretary
Monday, December 6, 2004
GAYLORD’S OPRYLAND RESORT
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Ask for A.M.E. Church or Code N-AMEB4
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R : 3 For More Information Contact he Pt
Nashville, TN * 7:00 O'clock PM. 1 3:h Episcopal District Office, A.M.E. Church
Inner Circle Seating and Pre-Reception 500 Eighth Avenue South
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Regular Donation $75.00 (615) 242-6814 — Fax (615) 242-2496
December 2-5, 200A * Embassy Suites Hotel
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Group: A.M.E. Church Ministers’ Spouses
Hotel Cut-off: November 2, 2004
RETREAT REGISTRATION: $100.00
Retreat Registration Deadline: November 3, 2004
HOST EPISCOPAL LEADERS
Dr. Barbara J. Chappelle
Bishop Richard Allen Chappelle
Mrs. Ora L. Easley, President
CONN-M-SWAWO+ PK S
Dr. John Q. Owens
Director of Social Action
Bishop Carolyn Tyler Guidry
Social Action Commission Chair
WayYNESBORO, PA
===== DSC03587.JPG =====
November 8, 2004
THe CwaisTIAN RECORDER 5
Bethel Stamford’s Youth School Rally
On Saturday, August 28, Bethel Stamford hosted its first Youth School Rally. (We started out
planning for a Church School cookout, with each teacher contributing towards it. At the time, we
didn“! know that God had another plan for us, for within 4 weeks from the first meeting of the
vur first Youth School Rally that reached well
beyond the Bethel community.) Now, being that this was the first time we hosted an event like this
planning committee, the cookout morphed int
we were not sure what to expect, but the response we received far exceeded our expectations
Because of the generosity of various local businesses, individuals, and municipal departments, we
were able to distribute over 200 backpacks filled with school supplies to children within our com
munity, and outside the community. However, we weren't satisfied just having the children and
their parents stop by to pick up a backpack and leave; we invited them to stay, fellowship, laugh,
and joke along with eating the food we provided for them, with the Christian centered entertain-
ment for the youth. Licentiate Carolyn Caviness from Israel A.M.E. Church in New York gave an
inspirational word to the children; Licentiate Kevin McKeithen served as the DJ for the event,
“Unspoken Word” from Bethel A.M.E. Church in Freeport, NY performed a MIME routine, and
Jonathan Lewis and company brought us Christian rap. All of this was free to the public.
When the day was done and all was cleaned up, Pastor LeRoy Ladson, Jr. led us in a “prayer
SCENES FROM BETHEL
by JAMES S. COOPER,
Army Chaplain, Retired
Pastor, St. Paul A.M.E. Shawfield Church
Sumter, South Carolina
More than two and a half centuries ago the pilgrims joined
in thanks for their first harvest. We Americans still recognize
that custom today. It is a special time for us to remember and
rejoice in the message of our beautiful country.
Although the tradition was continued, it was not until
November 26, 1789, that Thanksgiving was pronounced as
a holiday of our country by President George Washington.
Thanksgiving reminds us of the deep need in human hearts to
express thanks to a Divine Providence for all the things that
brings happiness to our daily living ... so we can join in
prayerful gratitude for those many things with which in most
parts of the world today, we are considered to be richly blessed.
May you pause for a moment and in your hearts, and in your own way express thanks
for the food, for your place of service in our country, for health and happiness, and for the
love of family and friends. In this I join.gladly with you, and pray also that we may prove
worthy of the trust our country has placed in us ... to preserve this great nation, and its
way of life for our children, and the generations that follow them ... a rich proud heritage
for which we can all be truly grateful.
Reverend Dr.
James S. Cooper
STAMFORD’S YOUTH RALLY
vy tha g og” 7 ’ “se ;
of thanksgiving” for this first time event being a success! Several of those who worked on this
event expressed how good God is and what a wonderful work was done in our church. A few days
ater, Rev. Ladson received e-mail from one of the parents whose children received backpacks
Here's what it said
vat et
Dear Reverend LeRoy
1 just wanted fo thank both you and your congregation for the generous school supply donations
you passed out this last Saturday in Stamford, of which we were grateful recipients
I was very impressed by the positive spirit of everyone there, both of the congregation and staff
We felt accepted and welcome at all times. This in itself should not be surprising to you as you
know your followers, however I must point out the fact we are neither Methodist nor of African
descent, When | explained to the woman giving out the school supplies that we were not members
of the church (which | think she grasped on her own) and that we did not want to deprive any of
the congregation supplies should they run out due to the demand, she pointed out that the supplies
were for all children, mine included.
! want to thank you and your congregation for demonstrating Christ's teachings in action to my
boys: generosity, brotherhood, tolerance, among others, and for sharing a positive experience
with them. This allowed me to show my boys that if we can see each other as people and not auto-
matically attach labels before we get to know each other, the future can be a brighter place for
them.
Although I was born in New York, I have lived over 40 years overseas. My experience has been
that those with the least are usually the first to be ready to help out. Thank you for your gen-
erosity and sacrifice by allowing us to participate.
God Bless,
Regards,
Matthew Lund
After reading an e-mail such as this, one is reminded that oftentimes it’s the little things that
can make an impact on someone’s life and that we should always be mindful of our actions and
our words. To God be the glory for the things He has done!
Respectfully submitted,
Bethel A.M.E. Church, Stamford
Bipues, Books & HyMNALS-
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efinessee 37210
788 ® Fax: (615) 232:9977 .
For more informaiten contact: /
AMEC Sunday Schoél Union (Publishing House)
(800) 648-8724
a —
===== DSC03588.JPG =====
THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER
November 8, 2004
ge
THIRD EPISCOPAL DISTRICT
A.M.E. CHURCH
BISHOP ROBERT VAUGHN WEBSTER
THE THIRD EPISCOPAL DISTRICT
ANNUAL PLANNING MEETING
Thursday — Saturday
November 11-13, 2005
Renaissance Columbus
50 North 3rd Street
Columbus, OH 43215
Phone: (614) 228-5050
bd
FIFTH EPISCOPAL DISTRICT
A.M.E. CHURCH
BISHOP JOHN RICHARD BRYANT
PLANNING MEETING
November 8, 2004
Host: Missouri Conference
$34
SEVENTH EPISCOPAL DISTRICT
A.M.E. CHURCH
BISHOP PRESTON WARREN WILLIAMS, II
SEVENTH EPISCOPAL DISTRICT
PLANNING MEETING
December 2-4, 2004
Bethel A.M.E. Church
819 Woodrow Street
Columbia, South Carolina 29205
Church Phone: (803) 779-0138
Pastor's Phone: (803) 750-0303
The Rev. Ronnie E. Brailsford, Host Pastor
The Rev. Willie J. Nelson, Host PE.
tod
EIGHTH EPISCOPAL DISTRICT
A.M.E. CHURCH
BISHOP CORNAL GARNETT HENNING
LOUISIANA ANNUAL CONFERENCE
November 8, 2004
W.I.M. Convention
November 9, 2004
W.M.S. Convention
November 10-14, 2004
Historic St. James A.M.E. Church
222 North Roman Street
New Orleans, LA 70112
Church Phone: (504) 586-9989
The Rev. Martin D. Odom, Host Pastor
The Rev. John K. Holiday, Host P.E.
EIGHTH EPISCOPAL DISTRICT
PLANNING MEETING
November 18-20, 2004
Bonner Campbell
Edwards, MS
Church Phone: (601) 852-5401
The Rev. William N. Love, Administrator
Soe
EE en OTE i.
ELEVENTH EPISCOPAL DISTRICT
A.M.E. CHURCH
BISHOP McKINLEY YOUNG
THE EAST FLORIDA
ANNUAL CONFERENCE
November 8-12, 2004
Greater Grant Memorial A.M.E. Church
5554 Gilchrist Road
Jacksonville, FL 32219
Church Phone: (904) 764-5992
The Rev. Tony DeMarco Hansberry, H. Pastor
The Rev. James M. Proctor, Host PE.
ELEVENTH EPISCOPAL DISTRICT
POST PLANNING CONFERENCE
November 18-20, 2004
Radisson Riverwalk Hotel
1515 Prudential Drive
Jacksonville, FL 32202
Phone: (904) 396-5100
FOUNDER’S DAY/MID-YEAR
CELEBRATION
March 17-19, 2005
Radisson Riverwalk Hotel
1515 Prudential Drive
Jacksonville, FL 32202
od
Bishop Samuel L. Green
Held His First Annual
Conference in Namibia
Continued from page 1
must develop into Christian maturity, move away
from division and focus the people on Jesus
Christ, the Author and Finisher of our faith.”
Bishop Samuel L. Green, Sr., the 125th
elected Bishop of the African Methodist Epis-
copal Church, called the 50th Session of the
Namibia Annual Conference to order at 3 p.m.
and from the onset it was clear that “business
as usual” would no longer be acceptable. The
Church’s emphasis is three-fold: Spiritual re-
vival and development to deal with the politi-
cal aftermath of the past quadrennial, youth
and young adult retention to empower young-
sters to become full participants in all aspects
of ministry, and evangelism whereby training
would be provided to reclaim the zeal and zest
of our predecessors by spreading the Gospel
of Christ with new inspiration.
The Conference was marked with inspira-
tional preaching. Rev. Hans Isaak, Pastor of
Purity A.M.E. Church, Wanaheda, delivered
the Emmaus Walk Sermon, lifting our spirits
that even the downtrodden will be comforted.
Rey. Daniel Schmidt, Pastor of ZTT A.M.E.
Church, preached the Missionary Sermon, en-
couraging us that the harvest is plenty though
the laborers are few. The Lay Commitment
Sermon was preached with conviction by the
Brother Charles Mutambo, who called us back
to our first love and put forward forgiveness
and reconciliation as important building blocks
of spiritual revival. The Rev. J. Nakhom deliv-
ered the Memoirs Sermon, and we remembered
Rev. Edward Goeieman, one of the unsung
heroes of African Methodism who also was a
retired parliamentarian from the Namibian Na-
tional Assembly.
The spiritual revival was put in effect when
three female itinerant deacons were ordained.
The Reverends M. Kapere, A. B. Sauerwein,
and B. Schroder, and one itinerant elder, the
Rev. L. Leukes, was also ordained.
The Rev. Crawford, visiting from the Ele-
venth Episcopal District, delivered the sermon
with power on the theme “A Charge to Keep
and God to Glorify.”
The Namibian Delegation to the 47th Ses-
sion of the General Conference A.M.E. Church
presented their report, and thanked Bishop
Samuel L. Green, Sr. and others for the hospi-
tality extended during the delegation’s stay in
Indianapolis.
onference Schedules
TWELFTH EPISCOPAL DISTRICT
A.M.E. CHURCH
BISHOP RICHARD ALLEN CHAPPELLE, SR.
WEST ARKANSAS
ANNUAL CONFERENCE
November 9, 2004
W.M.S. Convention
November 10-14, 2004
Bethel A.M.E. Church
1220 Carmichael Street
Malvern, AR 72104
Church Phone: (501) 337-7572
Pastor's Phones:
(501) 332-4405/ (870) 562-3797
The Rey. Larry M. Banks, Host Pastor
The Rev. Clarence V. Boyd, Sr., Host PE.
The Rev. Thomas W. Adair, Assoc. PE.
ARKANSAS
ANNUAL CONFERENCE
November 16, 2004
W.M.S. Convention
November 17-21, 2004
Bethel A.M.E. Church
600 North Cedar Street
North Little Rock, AR 72114
Church Phone: (501) 374-3685
Pastor's Phone: (501) 568-3437
The Rev. James Thomas, Host Pastor
The Rev. Marcus H. Elliott, Host PE.
The Rev. Eugene Brannon, Assoc. PE.
DISTRICT PLANNING MEETING
December 9-11, 2004
TBA
tod
SUBSCRIBE TO THE
CHRISTIAN RECORDER
Sc aN
SEVENTEENTH EPISCOPAL DISTRICT
A.M.E. CHURCH
BISHOP PAUL J. M. KAWIMBE
Democratic Republic of Congo
KATANGA
ANNUAL CONFERENCE
16th — 18th November 2004
Bulanda Kipushi, Host Church
The Rev. M. Kapanda, Host Pastor
The Rev. J. Mukanda, Host PE.
MBUJI-MAYI
ANNUAL CONFERENCE
19th — 21st November 2004
Mount Olivier, Host Church
The Rev. K. Sombolayi, Host Pastor
The Rev. Jean Mubayi, Host PE.
KINSHASA
ANNUAL CONFERENCE
23rd — 25th November 2004
Dibumba, Host Church
The Rev. N. Richard, Host Pastor
The Rev. M. Hockens, Host PE.
KANANGA
ANNUAL CONFERENCE
26th — 28th November 2004
Christ Notre Paix, Host Church
The Rev. D. M. Kasonga, Host Pastor
The Rev. G. Muana, Host PE.
DISTRICT CONSULTATIVE MEETING
9th — 12th December 2004
Mother Lubemba, Lusaka, Host Church
Venue-NRDC
ot
The Desert Mountain One Hundred and Eighteenth Annual Conference
Continued from page 3
with a full day and evening of worship and
workshops. The Diamonds and Pearls, Legacy
and Destiny Luncheon with keynote speaker,
Dr. Bobbie J. Primus-Cotton, Ed. D., M.P.H.,
RN., was held at the first class conference sight,
the Ritz Carlton Hotel. The Fifth Episcopal
District W.M.S. of the U.S.A. and Heaven’s
Shelter House for Children of the Republic of
South Africa have entered into a covenant to
shelter and meet the needs of thirty (30) AIDS
orphans, ages infancy to age seven (7). The pro-
ceeds from the luncheon will benefit orphaned
children who are suffering from the result of the
epidemic of HIV/ AIDS in South Africa. See the
website at www.the hungersite.com.
The Opening Worship Service Wednesday eve-
ning rang with the resounding, melodious voic-
es of the Conference Choir and the congrega-
tion singing “And Are We Yet Alive” as the
opening hymn. The Reverend Jesse Brown, Jr.,
Payne Chapel AMEC, Colorado Springs, CO,
preached the Opening Sermon, “The Church
Image in the Age of Modernity.” His charis-
matic singing and preached word invoked
thoughts on “How does the world see our
image — the church? How does the world see
us — the living church?” The Conference
Choir was in royal form and gave God the glo-
ry with the enthusiastic participatory worship
The delegation has recommended the fol-
lowing candidates for Episcopal office in
2008: the Reverends Andrew Lewin, Julius H.
McAllister, Sr., and John F. White.
The election of the conference representa-
tives to the Global Development Council took
place. The clergy elected the Rev. W. Simon
Hanse and the lay elected Sister Thusnelda H.
Isaacks. Following the election and upon the
recommendation from the Committee on Cir-
cuits and Stations, the Task Force to deal with
re-bordering issues was appointed as follows:
Reverends Neels J. Simon, W. Simon Hanse,
Albert E. Biwa, and Sisters Thusnelda H. Isaacks,
Katherine E. Goagoseb, and Winnie.
The Closing Commissioning Service was
marked with traditional pomp and pageantry.
The music was inspiring and the liturgical dan-
from all in the “house.” A grand welcome recep-
tion followed the Opening Worship Service.
The week continued with conference busi-
ness, pastors’ reports to Bishop John, Hour of
Power worship services each day at noon. At
Thursday’s Hour of Power, Rev. Noella Austin
Buchanan of Highland, CA preached. The week
was filled with visiting preachers, presiding
elders, Nehemiah Ministries workshop, Minis-
ters’ Spouses luncheons, Sons of Thunder Ecu-
menical Worship Service on Thursday evening,
the Lay Organization’s Lay Witness Evening
Service which included a play and liturgical
dance, the Memorial Service on Saturday morn-
ing called out names of those members of the
conference who died during the conference year.
One of the names called out was our beloved
soldier of the cross, Pastor J. Langston Boyd,
who died, who went from labor to reward on
(8/25/2004 in his home in Denver, Colorado.
The Service of Word, Ordination, and Sacra-
ment lifted our spirits in praise to our Lord
Jesus. The Ordination Sermon, “We are Called to
Make a Decision.” was preached by our newly
elected and consecrated Bishop, the Rt. Rev.
David Daniels, Jr., Fourteenth Episcopal Dis-
trict. The Young People’s Department (Y.P.D.)
met all day Saturday, closing with a celebrative
Please turn to page 7
cers moved the worshippers to the Seventh
Heaven. Bishop Green revived us with the word,
“A Fresh Anointing!” The marching orders
were very clear, and from the powerful preach-
ing, it was obvious that our prelate had indeed
received a revelation and vision from God.
The adjustments in presiding elder and pas-
toral appointments at first hearing sounded un-
realistic, but as the Bishop moved on and made
further adjustments it was clear that church growth
was the clear motivational rationale.
The Benediction was given to worshippers
who were “pregnant” with expectation for the
much-welcomed announcement of nationwide
revival services, to be spearheaded by our Epis-
copal leader, the Right Reverend Samuel L.
Green, Sr.
oon
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November 8, 2004
THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER
HURRICANES, HEROES AND HOPE conmocornow ences
| KINGS 18:45
ISAIAH 40:24
JEREMIAH 10:13
JEREMIAH 25:32
JEREMIAH 30:23
EZEKIEL 1:4
PROVERBS 1:27
NAHUM 1:3
AMOS 1:14
ZECHARIAH 7:14
The passages emphasize that the impact of
hurricanes described over two millennia ago
remain with us today. It is undeniable that hur-
ricanes produce a special 3-D effect: destruc-
tion, death, and despair. This 3-D effect was
true in the Old Testament and it is true today.
Education, transportation, and economic net-
works in Pensacola, Florida (home of the West
Florida Conference) are in complete disarray
due to the ferocity of Hurricane Ivan. The im-
pact of Ivan has resulted in Pensacola public
schools being closed for up to two months.
Many families in Pensacola will be without
electric power and telephone service for sever-
al weeks. A major bridge near Pensacola has
been severely ruptured and will be closed in-
definitely.
Economic damages resulting from Hurri-
cane Ivan's arrival in the Florida Panhandle are
estimated to be $8 - $10 billion dollars. This is
more than the combined damages resulting
from Hurricanes Charley and Frances. Eco-
nomic markets are sent into chaos, family lives
are shattered, utility infrastructure uprooted and
the ecological system is irreversibly altered
due to the ferocity of these storms. Further
insult to injury is added when killer tornadoes
spawn from hurricanes. In short, the quality of
life in affected communities is significantly re-
duced.
Despite the 3-D effect-of hurricanes I'm al-
ways amazed at the will of the human spirit to
usher in countless unsung heroes who willing-
ly respond to the challenge. I am humbled and
profoundly appreciative of the many nameless
volunteers who have displayed their kindness
and compassion towards hurricane victims. The
rapid response teams coordinated by local Red
Cross chapters, Salvation Army and church and
community volunteers have provided basic sup-
plies, shelter, and food for our most needy res-
idents. Utility workers are working around the
clock to quickly restore lost power, water, and
telephone service for their customers. It is
through the dedication of volunteers and utili-
ty service workers that allow victims to have a
ray of hope.
But, is there a way to avoid future calami-
ties? Or, do we submit ourselves to a nomadic
lifestyle by fleeing our homes and seeking al-
ternative living arrangements while the storm
passes over?
These are difficult questions that require thought-
ful and reasoned responses. I am of the opin-
ion that our current attitude toward hurricanes
is passive, lazy, and characterized by dull think-
ing. The current approach to hurricanes is re-
active. This is due largely to Federal, state, and
local officials focusing only on hurricane prepa-
ration, not prevention. What we need to be think-
ing about is some form of creative pro-active
strategy that can lead to a reduction in destruc-
tion, death, and despair.
I have often wondered why scientists
haven't figured out a way to convert the energy
of hurricanes into something for humanitarian
purposes. What we need is the scientific equiva-
lent of the famous Southwestern folklore char-
acter Pecos Bill. Though an urban legend, Pecos
Bill once harnessed an imposing tornado along
the Rio Grande and used it to provide irriga-
tion for drought-stricken southwestern Texas
farms. I know many farming communities today
who could use a modern day Pecos Bill.
The Desert Mountain One Hundred and Eighteenth Annual Conference
Continued from page 6
The complex forecasting models used by
NOAA can tell us within a reasonable standard
error where the hurricane will likely land. It
would seem like a protective shield could be
developed which would be strong enough to
withstand 200 mph winds and wide enough to
cover the outer bands of the storm, as well.
In theory, this is precisely what former Presi-
dent Reagan proposed in his “Star Wars” anti-
missile defense system. A Nobel Prize is await-
ing a skilled and clever scientist to come up
with a technology that can prevent the devas-
tation and transfer the energy to the power grid
and minimize the probability of flooding.
In addition, I wouldn't be opposed to taking
creative military action against the storm. Why
not adopt a preemptive smart missile strike that
can put a black eye in the eye of the Hurricane
and limit its speed at Category 1 as opposed to
the destructive force of Category 4 or 5 hurri-
canes? After all, these storms do represent a
"clear and present danger" to human life.
Now before I’m labeled a heretic for pro-
posing steps that appear like tampering with
“Mother Nature” or “Acts of God” remember
by human ingenuity we are able to construct
dams to control water flows and allow for effi-
cient irrigation. Windmills offer a safe and en-
vironmentally benign way to generate electric
power.
Furthermore, recall what the quality of life
was like in the US at the turn of the 20th cen-
tury. Many people died from common child-
evening of a full house of green T-shirts adomed by the youth of our great Zion and their sponsors
worshiping God.
All these services, events, and fellowships mixed together and brought the conference to a hal-
lelujah good time Sunday morning when our Bishop preached the Closing Service with a sermon
titled, “That the World May Know Christ!” Matthew 28: Bishop John urged us, “ ... to go ... in
the name of Jesus, to baptize not just with water but baptize them in Jesus ... ”
He urged all to pray. He desired that the Desert Mountain Conference pray: fervently for the
nation of Mozambique. “Each annual conference of the Fifth Episcopal District will be charged
with prayer for a specific nation...to take back the nations ...
Christ!” he proclaimed.
so that the world might know
The entire week of the conference with all the above and powerful “can’t stay in my seat”
preaching of the Holy Word prepared us “to go ... .” return to our assigned work stations across
the wide geographical miles of the conference. Although we are many miles apart, love, a coop-
erative attitude, e-mail, and conference calls shortens the distance. We know that Bishop John and
Rey. “C” are always close to the hearts of the people in the Desert Mountain Conference.
by Reverend Lonzie Symonette, Reporter, B.C.C., A.P.C.
Conference Reporter
hood disease, Life expectancy was not quite 50
years of age, At the end of the century life ex-
pectancy rose by over 32 years for the average
woman and close to 30 years for the average
man,
The primary cause for this increase in life
expectancy is due to technological advances in
medicine. Smallpox, polio, influenza, and the
plethora of cancers that killed millions of Ameri-
cans before the turn of the 20th century are
treatable today thanks to scientific ingenuity.
Scientists and medical researchers were the
unsung heroes who made it possible for all of
us to enjoy the benefits of longer life. If med-
ical researchers can improve the physical func-
tioning of our bodies, which God created, why
can’t scientists improve the functioning of our
physical environment?
I’m hesitant to concede that hurricanes are
necessarily “Acts of God.” Several weeks ago,
the Church School Lesson focused on the story
of Noah and how God restarted creation after
the 40-Day Flood. The sign of the rainbow is
used as a symbol that God will not destroy the
Earth again by water. If we accept this as truth
then it is difficult to reason why the activity of
hurricanes represent God’s will since the flood-
ing associated with these storms is inconsis-
tent with the rainbow's promise.
The Psalmist declares, “The Earth is the
Lord’s and the fullness thereof, the world and
they that dwell therein.” Jesus compliments that
by stating “I have come so that you might have
life and have it more abundantly.” We cannot
enjoy fullness and abundance if we concede
destruction, death, and despair resulting from
encroachment by hurricanes.
Let's put our faith in Christ and our hope in
science that a cure for hurricanes is right a-
round the corner. We can and we will regroup,
recover, rebuild, and finally we can all rejoice!
Thank you and Good Day.
*This essay was a prepared as a presentation
for the Sons of Allen Organization at Bethel
AMEC of Tallahassee, Florida, September 18,
2004. The author wishes to thank his fellow
Sons of Allen colleagues Theodore James,
Samuel Heyward, and William Huckaby for
their thoughtful insights in the development
of this essay. A special debt of thanks is also
owed to his wife Jennie and their two chil-
dren, Nia (eleven years old) and Joshua (nine
years old), for providing constructive criti-
cism. Dad doesn't always know best.
Report of the Committee on Christian Education
The 104th Session of the East Tennessee Annual Conference
Continued from page 1
Christian Education is basically the process
of making disciples, the process of helping in-
dividuals who have received Christ Jesus as
Lord and Savior of his or her life to grow up
into spiritual maturity. Or to put it another way,
it is the vehicle to help believers grow up in the
faith.
There are at least two key components to
our Christian Education perspective and pro-
cess:
1) Christian Education through a personal and
family devotional life
A. Personal and family prayer daily
B. Personal and family daily Bible read-
ing and discussion
C. Personal and family goal of daily obe-
dience to God’s Word
Christian Education through the specific
ministry of the local church
A. C.E. through the Sunday School
B. C.E. through the weekly church Bible
study
C. C.E. through the weekly or bi-weekly
worship service
D. C.E. through involvement in the min-
istry of the local church
iS)
Much and most of the ministry of Christian
Education in our lives should happen at home
within the context of the Christian family.
In the personal life of a Christian at home,
every believer would be wise to set aside a spe-
cial time each day to spend in prayer. This can
and should be a blessed time of praise and wor-
ship of our Lord, as well as talking one on one
with your Heavenly Father and sharing your
heart with Him, conversing very personally with
Him. Also, every Christian should make a goal
to read at least 2 or 3 chapters (or more, and
more is always better) a day from God’s Word
in his or her individual life. And of course, eve-
ry believer should strive to live out and to walk
in obedience to that which they have learned
from the Word of God.
In their home and within their family, a fa-
ther and/or mother should make it a goal daily
to bring the family together for a time of pray-
er and a time of reading the Word of God. And
of course take time to talk about the meaning
of the passages read.
Parents should take time to discuss with and
teach their children how to live out their faith.
And certainly, parents should strive faithfully
each day to live their faith before their chil-
dren.
Through the ministry of the local church, the
ministry of Christian Education can largely take
place through four areas of outreach which in-
clude the Sunday School, the weekly Bible
study, the worship services of the church, and
personal involvement in the outreach ministry
of the church.
Local church Sunday School participation is
often a very key tool in helping a Christian to
really grow up in their faith. Much spiritual
growth happens in believers who are consis-
tently coming together with other believers to
read God’s Word within the context of the Sun-
day School lesson, There they can discuss how
the wisdom and insight found in the lesson im-
pacts their lives.
For many believers, weekly Bible study par-
ticipation is very important in their spiritual
growth. Much like the ministry of the Sunday
School, weekly Bible study participation can
help tremendously to build and strengthen a be-
liever’s faith. In this context, Christians can
read and study the Word of God, and look
intently into the Word for guidance and direc-
tion for every area of their lives.
Weekly worship service participation is an-
other vital part of the ministry of Christian Edu-
cation. As Christians come together to praise
and worship the Lord, sing songs of praise and
thanksgiving, give of themselves to the Lord’s
work, and hear the Word of God as it is pro-
claimed and taught, the spiritual growth and
learning that can happen in their lives is tre-
mendous. In worship, believers learn about the
Lord and His Word, they grow and are nur-
tured in their faith, they are built up in the spir-
it and empowered by the Holy Spirit to be
more effective and fruitful vessels of God in
every area of their lives. Believers become more
and more like Christ with every single wor-
ship service they participate in.
And finally, as Christians become involved
in the outreach ministry of the church, much
Christian Education takes place in their lives.
When believers choose to take on the respon-
sibility of being a steward or a class leader or
a stewardess, usher, an evangelism committee
member, missionary, a believer involved in a
feeding ministry, etc., something important hap-
pens. The Lord reaches through them to touch
others with His love, grace, and spirit. And in
that process, He works on and greatly blesses
the vessel — the believer who has made him-
self or herself available to do ministry in the
Lord’s service. Those believers will grow in
their knowledge of God and in their relation-
ship with Him.
In concluding, each of these aspects of the
ministry of Christian Education can be very
important for the spiritual education and
growth of individual believers and the spiritu-
al education and growth of the church as a
whole. Therefore, we, the members of the
Christian Education Committee, would encour-
age every local church and individual believer
to embrace these areas of ministry in Christian
education, and to seek to incorporate them into
their lives. It is our hope that these local church-
es and individual believers would choose to
live out a life committed to making Christian
education not a program to be temporarily
engaged in, but a lifestyle to be lived — in
Christ.
Respectfully submitted,
Committee on Christian Education:
Reverends Joseph Parker, Michael
Broadnax, Bro. Joe Askins
and Sis. Fordie Franklin
===== DSC03590.JPG =====
THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER
November 8, 2004
The Resolution of the 94th Session of the East Mississippi Annual Conference, Bishop Senses Challenge and Change
Continued from page 4
Mrs. Yvonne
Henning-Parks
at Conference
Whereas, Bishop Henning continued with the
Annual Conference nightly revivals, as well as
pre-conference Women In Ministry (Reverend
Carolyn Thurman, Acting Coordinator) and Wo-
NOVEMBER 15-16, 2004
Meeting of the Compllation Committee
AML. Sunday School Union
men’s Missionary Society (Mrs, Frances Jones,
Conference President) business and programs;
the missionaries capped eight new Conference
members and pinned one male associate mem-
ber; and
Whereas, revivalist Presiding Elder David J.
Campbell (North LA Conference, Shreveport
District) preached with power from on high
from the subjects, “Stop Tripping,” “Attitudes are
Contagious: Is Yours Worth Catching?” and
“KISS: Keep It Saved and Sanctified”; and
Whereas, the East Mississippi Conference is
thankful to God for the Christian leadership,
which has emerged in recent years; we are ex-
cited about the re-elected General Officer, Rev.
Dr. Johnny Barbour, Jr., Secretary-Treasurer, the
A.M.E. Sunday School Union; newly appoint-
ed Presiding Elder of the Jackson-Meridian Dis-
trict, Rev. Dr. Michele R. Goodloe; newly ap-
pointed Episcopal W.M.S. President, Dr.
Shirley Hopkins Davis; newly elected Episco-
pal Lay Organization President, Dr. Melvin I.
Evans. Praise God! Morning by morning new
mercies we are seeing; and
Whereas, Opening Worship Service was a high-
er ground praise and preaching worship expe-
rience, with native son of the East MS Confer-
ence and biological son of mother and father
preachers, Rev. Samuel H. Boyd, Sr., D. Min.,
Pastor of Pearl Street African Methodist Epis-
copal Church, preaching the powerful, spirit-
filled sermon from the subject, “Trusting a God
Who Does Not Abandon.” His message assured
this Conference that God is walking around in
our fiery furnace situations; and
Whereas, roll call and pastors’ reporting were
conducted with Bishop Henning’s care, con-
cem, and thought-provoking responses and ad
vice, Both pastoral and literary reports provid
ed useful information and oftentimes encourage
ment to the leadership and Conference dele
gates; Dr, Shirley Davis, along with Episcopal
District Budget Committee members Rever
end Donnell Allen and Dr. Melvin Evans, pre
sented the proposed Episcopal District budget
via PowerPoint, and the budget was adopted; and
Whereas, throughout the Conference, sermons
and speeches sparked synergism among partic
ipants and appeared to unify lay and ministers
Rey, Cathryn Amedee, Episcopal Women In
Ministry Director, preached from the subject,
“A New Thing”; W.M.S./Y.W.I Miss Stephanie
Burks offered the W.M.S. Night in White med-
itation and questioned, “What Does All the
White Mean?” Sons of Allen and Bonner-
Campbell Night, with Rev. Archie Smith as Con-
ference Director, featured Rey. William N. Love
with a message about outreach in our commu-
nities, followed by the presentation of over 50
cases of food and clothing to the Greenwood
Food Bank. Rev. Dock S. Cooper, III preached
a dynamic Noon Sermon, “Can These Bones
Live?” The Lay Night program presented the
Honorable Bennie Thompson, 2nd Congression-
al District of Mississippi, who offered challen-
ges to the church in relation to Bonner-Campbell
Institute enhancements and the power of the vote;
and
Whereas, the Conference praised and thanked
God during the Memorial, Ordination, and Holy
Communion Service. Memorialized were Mrs.
Carole Overton Webster, Episcopal Supervisor of
the Third Episcopal District; the legendary Rev.
A. D. “Gatemouth” Moore; and stalwart mission-
ary and lay member Mrs. Bettye Jenkins Caston.
Two Itinerant Elders were ordained: Rev. Dock
Sylvester Cooper, III, and Rev. Delisha Boykins
Wilson. Five Deacons were ordained: Reverends
Lorarine Loving, Amita Spencer, Kathryn M.
Perry, Sylvia Stewart, and Arrie Patterson. Cau-
tioning those ordained to be careful of what they
do as they represent a Supreme Being was the
great preacher and General Officer, Rev. Dr.
Johnny Barbour, Jr., whose subject was, “Ste-
wards of the Mysteries of God”; and
Whereas, presenting our young people to Chris-
tian society is a high honor, an evening of ele-
gance was realized through the coordination of
Conference Debutante-Masters Commissioner,
Mrs. Chandra Phillips. Supervisor Parks, an ex-
perienced Y.P.D. Director on most levels of the
church, was proud to work with our Episcopal
Y.PD. Director Malinda Watts, Conference Y.P.D.
Order Today While Quantities Last
Director Della Archie, and President Neal Arp,
as the Y,P.D.ers showed themselves to be a spir
ited group of singers, actors, liturgical dancers,
and speakers. Former Eighth Episcopal District
Y.P.D. President and now Pastor of Mary Spring
hill A.M.B, Church, Shreveport, LA, Rev. Kevin
Washington, preached from the subject, “Tur
Your Pain Into Gain,” and this dynamic explo
ration of the Prayer of Jabez was an engaging
experience for youth and adults; and
Whereas, Rey, Ray Jackson and the Turner
Chapel African Methodist Episcopal Church fa-
mily were marvelous and accommodating hosts,
negotiating with hotels about Conference atten-
dee reservations, as hotels adjusted speedily to
the influx of Floridians seeking shelter from Hur-
ricane Ivan; the Pastor and Turner Chapel family
worked diligently to provide the spiritual setting
and sustentation for the Episcopal leadership,
pastors, and delegation. May God bless them
for their hard work and congenial attitudes!
Be It Therefore Resolved, that the 94th Session
of the East Mississippi Annual Conference is
replete with servant leadership and followship,
ready to do God’s will! God smiled on us and
returned to us our compassionate Chief Pastor
and Social Activist, Bishop C. Garnett Henning,
Sr, along with the hard working, faithful, and
illustrious Supervisor, Mrs. Yvonne Henning-
Parks. As well, the Conference praised our Host
Presiding Elder, Rev. Dr. Jacob W. Hilton, and
looked favorably upon our newly appointed Pre-
siding Elder, Rev. Dr. Michele R. Goodloe.
Let It Be Further Resolved, that the East Mis-
sissippi Annual Conference closed after study-
ing to show ourselves approved under the lead-
ership of Conference Superintendent, Mr. G. G.
Young and Episcopal Superintendent, Mr. Henry
B. Edwards. Following, the Conference re-
ceived a word from God through the Chief
Pastor, whose sermon subject was “On Assign-
ment and Under Orders”; pastors were appoint-
ed and members exited the city of Greenwood
with renewed hope in a God who never fails
and a Bishop who has great faith in the people
of Louisiana and Mississippi and challenges
the East MS Conference: “This quadrennium we
must hear again the words of Jesus when He
told His disciples to ‘launch out into the deep.”
Thus, our business must now be to Enlist, Equip,
and Launch leadership for Christ!
The Committee on Resolutions
Drs. Shirley Hopkins Davis and
Patricia Jernigan; Mrs. Georgia
Robinson, Ethel Garner, and Dora
Evans; Revs. Andrew Stamps and
Demetrese Phillips
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-
Date
-
2004-11-8
