March 20, 1989

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Title

March 20, 1989

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The AME Christian Recorder

YECORDE

OF Lit AFRICAN METHODIST EPISCOPAL

THE OFFICIAL ORGAN
CHURCH
A 7

MAN OUR BROTHER

March 20, 1989

THE FIRST ANNUAL CONFERENCE CONDUCTED BY
BISHOP R. A. CHAPPELLE IN AFRICA
The unfinished church chapel in Mansa, Zambia, speaks eloquently of unfinished business
for the Missions, a cause that reaches all of us. Above the Church is Bishop Richard Allen

Chappelle

The Spirit of Central Africa and
The A.M.E. Church Today

by A. Lee Henderson

Publisher’s Note: We de-
dicate the article present-
ed with special acknow-
_ ledgement to all whose

lifeblood and courage

—

- pour into and through our Depart-
ment of Missions. Dr. Frederick
Christian Harrison who serves us well
as Secretary-Treasurer of our Mis-
sions Department noted, ‘‘The mis-
sionary spark was generated in the
A.M.E. Church as early as 1821,
when Daniel Coker lead the first
group of persons to West Africa, fin-
ally settling in Liberia. Officially the
Baltimore Conference authorized the
dispatch of Rev. Scipio Beane to Hai-
ti. In 1840, the Rev. William Paul
Quinn was commissioned as our first
missionary.’’

Dr. Harrison notes that others help-

ed Quinn’s early efforts. Names like
J. W. Early and Reverend John Miff-
lin Brown who was imprisoned so
often for preaching the Gospel are the
pioneering spirits in our continuing
work.

“In Africa, the throb of the future

pulses for visionaries beyond the veils
of dust stirred up, we are building a
new foundation for the people of God
out of the mire, the mud, and the
morass.

A report sent to us from Bishop
Richard Allen Chappelle, Sr., on six
conferences held between September
and November, 1988, in the Seven-
teenth Episcopal District on the activi-
ties conducted in Lusaka, Zambia,
Central Africa (N.E., N.W., S. Zam-
bia; Malawi; N.E., and S.W. Zim-
babwe) is distilled in the following.

Please turn to page 4

Black Students Punished, Suspended at Twice the Rate of White

Students in U. S. Public Schools

Alarming Statistics About
Blacks in Public Schools

Black public school students suffer
more than twice the corporal punish-
ment and school suspensions as their
White Counterparts, according to a
report prepared by the National Coa-
lition of Advocates for Students
(NCAS).

Black students account for 16% of
the U.S. public school population, but
receive 31% of corporal punishment
and 30% of school suspensions. While
White students make up 70% of the
school population, they receive 60%
of corporal punishment and 59% of
school suspensions.

Because male students account for
80% of corporal punishment incidents
and 70% of school suspensions, Black
male students are most at risk for dis-
ciplinary action. Additionally, special
education placements of Black
students as Educable Mentally Re-
tarded occur at a 35% rate, while their
placement in Gifted and Talented
classes are at 8%—half the level ex-

pected, based on their 16% enrollment
level.

“Public school discipline falls dis-
proportionately upon any child per-
ceived as different—including ethnic
and religious minorities, poor or
handicapped children, or those who
have limited English proficiency,’’
said NCAS Executive Director Joan
First.

“These very disturbing statis-
tics—collected after implementation
of most ‘school excellence’ re-
forms—provide strong evidence that
Black students, especially males, have
not reaped a fair share of the
benefits,’’ First said. ‘‘Certainly the
178,000 Black students labelled as
mentally retarded—many inappropri-
ately—don’t have much access to ex-
cellence’.

“When Black students are sus-
pended for trivial offenses and have to
endure the humiliation of corporal

Please turn to page 7

PRICE; 50 CENTS

The Liberia Annual Conference

The 99th Session of the Liberia An-
nual Conference African Methodist
Episcopal Church commenced at the
Eliza Turner A.M.E. Church in Mon-
rovia with the Rt. Rev. John Richard
Bryant presiding. The new Bishop ex-
presses joy in being back in Liberia
after twenty years. It can be recalled
that Bishop John R. Bryant served as
a peace corp volunteer in Liberia from
1965-1967 a period of two years.

Bishop Bryant and his family arriv-
ed in Liberia to take up duty in the
14th District in October of last year,
1988. Since then, they have been
residing in Monrovia. Our new
Episcopal leaders came at a time when
the 14th District is in dying need of
faithful, committed and annointed
leaders; and even now Bishop and
Mrs. Bryant are beginning to have im-
pact on the church in West Africa. We
in the 14th District know that God has
sent us the right leaders at the right
time for the right reasons.

This session of the Liberia Annual
Conference was packed with a lot of
excitement, fellowship, good preach-
ing and spirit. This conference was the
first of its kind over a long period. On
the day of the opening, the 8th of Feb-

Bishop John R. Bryant

ruary, Bishop Bryant presented the
Annual Conference with a Bus and he
told us to give thanks to several
A.M.E. Churches in Baltimore,
Maryland, the Rev. Frank M. Reid
III, and others who made this gift pos-
sible. On February 10, 1989, the Rev.
Cecelia Williams-Bryant, the
Episcopal Supervisor assigned to the
14th District, led the Conference In-
stitute. Her subject for the day was
“The Healing of the Nations.’’ One
thing that we know is that God is go-.
ing to heal our wounds in the months
ahead.
Please turn to page 3

U.S. BLACK POPULATION TO INCREASE

BLACK POPULATION PROJECTED TO
INCREASE 50 PERCENT BY YEAR 2030,
CENSUS BUREAU REPORTS

The nation’s Black population is
projected to grow by 50 percent by the
year 2030, according to a report by the
Commerce Department’s Census Bu-
reau.

The Black population in 1987 total-
ed 29.9 million, 7 million more than in
1970. Under the bureau’s middle
range of projections, it may increase 7
million by 2005 and another 7 million
by 2030. After 2030, however, the
Black population would change rela-
tively little. By 2080, it may number
47.6 million, about 18 million more
than in 1987.

The White population grew 26.6
million between 1970 and 1987. It is
projected to grow an additional 29.2
million over the next 40 years, peak at
235.4 million in 2027, then decline
steadily. By 2080, the White popu-
lation may be only 6 million larger
than in 1987.

The growth of the ‘‘other races’’
population (primarily Asians, Pacific
Islanders, and American Indians) may
be the fastest of any of the racial
groups. It has tripled in size in the past
17 years, increasing from 2.6 million
in 1970 to 7.9 million in 1987. This
group may be S50 percent larger by the
year 2000, double its present size by
2015, and triple its size by the year
2040. By 2080, the ‘‘other races’’ pop-
ulation may be almost 25 million lar-
ger than in 1987.

Here are other highlights from the
middle range of projections:

e Since 1970, the Black population
has grown at about twice the White
rate and is projected to maintain at
least that difference through 2030.

e The White population may com-
prise an even smaller share of the U.S.
population in future decades, falling
from 82.6 percent in 2000 to 72.6 per-
cent in 2080.

© The ‘‘other races’’ share may rise
substantially from 4.3 percent in 2000
to 7.8 percent in 2040, and to 11.1 per-
cent in 2080.

e For at least the next 50 years, the
annual number of births to Black
women will remain close to 600,000
or slightly below the current level.
Births to White women, however, are
expected to fall. ‘‘Other races’’ is the
only racial group whose future num-
ber of births is ever projected to be
more than 5 percent above its current
level.

e In 1980, 27 percent of Black
births, 14 percent of White births, and
11 percent of ‘‘other races’’ births
were to teenagers. By 1990, however,
these proportions may fall to 20 per-
cent, 10 percent, and 8 percent. The
proportions would stay near these
levels after 1990 for every group but
Blacks. The proportion of Black
births to teenagers will drop for many
years due to the decline in the pro-
portion of women of childbearing age
who are teenagers.

The full report includes alternative

Please turn to page 3

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Echoes from the 99th Session of °

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2 The AME Christian Recorder

March 20, 1989

Easter: The Ecclesiastical Festival Commemorating The Resurrection

of Jesus Christ

Easter is the most important fes-
tival of the Christian year. It has been
celebrated universally as the highest of
Holy Days in Christendom. For a long
time, Easter was a special occasion
for baptism, for the reconciliation of
penitents, the release of prisoners,
for the distribution of alms, and for
offerings to the clergy. For some
churches, all of their members were
expected to receive Holy Communion
at Eastertime.

Since the 8th century, in Western
Christendom, Easter Day has been
celebrated on the first Sunday after
the first full moon, or after the 14th
day of the moon following March 21.
By this designation, Easter cannot fall
before March 22, nor after April 25. In the year 1928, a bill was introduced
in the British House of Commons providing that Easter Day shall be the first
Sunday after the second Saturday in April.

The dispute in the early church, as to the date of Easter, was between
the Christians of Asia Minor—who were called Quartodecimans, because
they kept the resurrection on the third day after the 14th day of the Jewish
month Nisan, on whatever day of the week it fell—and the Western Church,
which maintained that Easter should always be held on the Lord’s Day
following the 14th. The Nicean Council, in 325 A.D., fixed the Sunday for
universal observance.

The Easter celebration is the ‘‘Dies Dominica,’’ the Day of the Lord.
This is the recurring season in which we reflect upon the mystery, power and
meaning of the resurrection. Those who study Holy Scripture know why the
women were at the gravesite early on the original Easter morning. It was not
to celebrate Easter; Jesus’ resurrection was an exciting surprise to them. The
excitement of discovering the stone rolled away was just the beginning of
their euphoric experience on that day.

It is interesting to note, the stone was not rolled back so that Jesus
Christ could get out of the tomb, but that Mary Magdalene and Joanna and
Mary the mother of James, and the other women, could get in. So that John
and Peter could get in, so that the Roman guards could testify to the miracle
and phenomenon, so that all the world could, ultimately, know about the
resurrection. The empty tomb has been—and continues to be—a provocative
issue that changes lifestyles in every succeeding generation.

His resurrection was the beginning of the Christian faith that yet makes
disciples. Those who believe and accept the report of the resurrection must
incarnate their faith, making it the witness of daily living in every generation.
Nearly two thousand years ago, on a Friday, the crucifixion left those first
disciples feeble, timid, fearful, despondent and defeated. The resurrection of
Jesus Christ sent those same dejected people out to impact and conquer a
world. They were no longer the weeping friends of a dead prophet, but
heroic, energized, committed persons of the PRINCE OF PEACE!

ROBERT H. REID, JR.

THE A.M.E. CHRISTIAN RECORDER

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Cyrus Keller, Religious Literature Editor.

The A.M.E. Christian Recorder welcomes letters from its readers on matters
of general interest. All letters must be signed and contain the address of the writer.
The A.M.E. Christian Recorder will occasionally withhold the name of a writer of a
signed letter, if there is a valid reason given No defamatory, libelous or slanderous
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ject or edit any letter or article to conform with good taste, style and space re-
quirements.

Postmaster please send address correction to A.M.E. Sunday Schoo! Union,
500 8th Avenue, South, Nashville, TN 37203-4181,

Because of His resurrection, Easter is more than a casual reflection ona
passing thought. It is much more than an affirmation that is a creedal state-
ment. Easter is the work of God and cause for perennial celebration. There is
much excitement and great celebration with every victory. The people of
light and love, each Easter Season, continue in the festival celebration of the
historical spiritual victory that has not yet been successfully contradicted.
The validation of the Christian Faith is in the fact of the resurrection.

The crucifixion on the cross was the letdown and, if it alone were the
basis for one’s belief, people who are non-believers would have little interest
in, or sympathy with, the Christian religion. The empty grave was not only
cause for celebration, but justification for proclamation of Jesus Christ’s
continuing ministry.

The celebration began with a few women whose mission that day was to
anoint His body and give it a proper burial. Had that first Easter experience
occurred twenty centuries later, there would have been worldwide television
coverage. I can well imagine the newscaster reporting: ‘‘Sometime between
sunset last night and dawn of this morning, it is alleged, Jesus’ tomb was
discovered empty. That has created a great stir in the Roman empire. We
have investigative reporters standing by in Jerusalem.’’ The women reporters
who were first there in that first century did the reporting. They were com-
missioned by the angel at the empty grave, and by the Risen Christ on the
scene to officially announce the resurrection. That they did, and commen-
tators have been discussing this issue ever since that first discovery. This is a
news event that continues to be a headline story.

The resurrection gave cause for new hope that truth and love would, like
the rising sun, put people on the bright side of the issues of life. It was hate
that put Jesus on the cross. It was love that took Him down and buried Him
in a borrowed grave. It was a greater love that resurrected Him out of that
temporary prision. It was God’s love that caused Him to give His Son. It was
the Son’s love for humanity that caused Him to be sacrificed on the cross. It
is His resurrection that makes one’s faith live.

It was Peter, a doubtful but hopeful old man, and John, a disbelieving
but hopeful young man, who went into the empty tomb and found, also, the
empty grave clothes. It was Mary Magdalene, a weeping but expectant
woman, who met the resurrected and victorious Jesus in Joseph’s garden of
beauty and holiness. They all found cause for celebration. Lo, these many
centuries since then, people are repeating the good news: He is risen.

Easter is not merely an occasion to discuss values of eternal life. Easter
also give value to life that is not eternal. Yes, to life that is this side of the
grave. Easter is, indeed, the ecclesiastical festival that commemorates the
resurrection of Jesus the Christ.

HELSDSLSHSSSLS LS SSA SHS HS SHS

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March 20, 1989

¢ AME Christian Recorder r
““MINGS FOR MISSION — WOW!” ___

Bishop D. G. K. Ming

Pleasant Grove A.M.E. Church,
Sanford, Mississippi, pastored by
Rev. Gertie L. Smiley was the reci-
pient of a check in the amount of
$1,317.00, from Bishop and Mrs.
Donald Kenneth Ming to facilitate the
much needed repairs to our Edifice.

Pleasant Grove A.M.E. Church
was organized in 1904. In its eighty-
five years of existence, Bishop Ming is
the first Bishop to ever visit this little
Mission Church in the Valley by the
wild woods.

Upon arrival, he was cognizant of
the potential growth of the church and

Mrs. Edith Ming

suggested a fundraiser with Bishop
Ming, the Brookhaven-Hattiesburg
District of the Mississippi Annual
Conference of the Eighth Episcopal
District of the A.M.E. Church, and
the local Church would participate.
This idea came to fruition on January
15, 1989, when Bishop Ming, Rev.
James Manley, presiding elder; pastor
and members of the District raised a
total of $4,634.00.

We are deeply grateful to all, but
especially to Bishop and Mrs. Ming.
They helped us to do it and WOW!

A.M.E. salutes Black History Month
Blackness is a state of mind

Reprint from Wingspan,
Cheyenne, Wyoming
by Jo Fisher

For the first time a Black history
seminar will be held at Allen Chapel
A.M.E. Church, but the co-sponsor,
Gloria Edwards, said she hopes ‘‘to
sponsor another seminar at the church
next year.’”’

The seminar will be held in Rhone
Hall at 917 W. 21st Street from 10
a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 25.
Lunch will be served to all partici-
pants.

The national theme of the seminar
will be ‘‘Black Is Not Just A Color,
But A State Of Mind.’’ A movie
“Black History; Lost, Stolen, or
Strayed,’’ narrated by Bill Cosby, will
be shown, and activities relating to
Black history will be offered.

One of the activities will be re-
searching any famous Black in history
a person chooses. Another will be to
choose an area of knowledge (math-
writing-medicine) and discover which
Black scholars contributed their
knowledge to these areas.

Young people will be helped to
make a take-home-booklet with their
research in it, along with material ex-
plaining why it is important to study
Black history and to incorporate
Black history into schools and col-
leges.

Edwards and co-sponsor Aron
Morrison believe the seminar will not
only benefit the young people in the
community but also adults who want
to attend the seminar,

Edwards, a teacher at Central High
School, explained, ‘‘Young Blacks
know very little about their Black
heritage’ partly because it is not
taught in schools or colleges and part-
ly because it has not been passed
through generations of Blacks.

Edwards noted that Carter Good-
win Woodson is considered the found-
ing father of Black History Week,
which later led to Black History
Month. Black History Week was
always held during the week of Abra-
ham Lincoln’s birthday, until in the
1970’s it was extended to cover the
whole month of February.

Woodson started the ‘Association
for the Study of Negro Life and

History’’ on Sept. 19, 1915, in Chica-
go, IL. The three purposes of the as-
sociation are ‘‘to promote historical
research on Black history; to publish
books on Afro-American life and his-
tory; to promote the study of Afro-
American history through schools,
colleges, churches, homes, fraternal
organizations and clubs; and to collect
and encourage the collection of his-
torical manuscripts and materials re-
lating to Black people.

In the 1970’s, the study of ‘‘Negro
Life and History’? was changed to
“Afro-American Life and History,”’
and the word ‘‘Negro’’ was replaced
by the word ‘‘Black.”’

For more information on the semi-
nar, contact the Rev. Marguerite K.
Tinney at 632-1489.

Continued from page 1

U.S. Black Population to Increase
Black Population
Projected to Increase 50
Percent by Year 2030,
Census Bureau Reports

series with higher and lower growth
rates that reflect varying assumptions
about future levels of fertility, mor-
tality, and net immigration, Copies of
the report, Projections of the Popula-
tion of the United States, by Age, Sex,
and Race: 1988 to 2080, Series P-25,
No. 1018, may be purchased from the
Superintendent of Documents, U.S.
Government Printing Office Washing-
ton, DC 20402.

Continued from page 1

Echoes from the 99th Session of The Liberia

Annual Conference

On Saturday, February 11th, the
Ordination Sermon was delivered by
Rev. David Daniels, who has been a
pastor in the A.M.E. Church in South
Carolina, U.S.A. After which, Bishop
performed his first Ordination as
Bishop; he ordained four persons as
Elders and three persons as Deacons.
This ceremony was performed by
Bishop, Elders of the Church, and the
Episcopal Supervisor, Rev. Cecelia
Williams Bryant. At this session,
three new congregations were admit-
ted to the conference, and three new
schools were organized.

On Sunday, Bishop, by using his
Godly judgment, appointed pastors to
their charges. There were changes in
some key leadership positions in the
Liberia Annual Conference (LAC).

1. Rev. Dr. James Benedict Mason
was appointed as Superintendent for
development of the Liberian Annual
Conference among other responsibili-
ties, all financial and material support
to churches and individuals from the
Bishop’s Office will be channeled
through Dr. Mason.

2. Rev. Lewis D. Harris, Jr. was
appointed as Presiding Elder of the
Cape Palmas District and Pastor of
Mount Ashton A.M.E. Church, in
Harper City. Rev. Harris who is twen-
ty-six years of age is the youngest
elder to be appointed Presiding Elder
in the history of the A.M.E. Church in
West Africa. The Bishop said he’s cer-
tain that Rev. Harris is the right man
for Cape Palmas.

Rev. Harris goes to Cape Palmas at
a time when the work is spiritually
dead and there is little hope for sur-
vival. As we can recall twenty-one
years back, the Bro. John Richard
Bryant was ordained into the Gospel
Ministry as elder in Mount Ashton
A.M.E. Church.

3. Rev. David Daniels, a Liberian

who was formerly a pastor in South
Carolina was appointed the new
pastor for our leading church, Eliza
Turner Memorial A.M.E. Church.
Rev. Daniels comes to Eliza Turner
after being away for many years
studying and pastoring in the United
States. Rev. Daniels was a former
member of the Church he is now pas-
toring. Thanks to Bishop Bryant for
getting one of our boys back to our
mother land to serve. We hope that
Bishop will be able to persuade the
rest to come home some day.

4. Jordan Agricultural Institute has
a new principal in person of Rev.
Jeremiah Emmanuel January, former
pastor of Eliza Turner A.M.E.
Church. Rev. January will also be
pastoring Morris Brown A.M.E.
Church in Royesville where the school
is located. He’s being sent by the
Bishop to make Jordan Institution the
pride of the A.M.E. Church in West
Africa.

At this session, the Bishop present-
ed the conference with his financial re-
port of all monies received and dis-
bursed covering the period from July
to January of this year. This makes
history in the Liberia Annual Con-
ference that a Bishop openly and will-
fully presented an annual report of all
finances received. This we believe is a
sign of true accountability.

On Sunday, February 12, 1989, the
99th session was closed with the
Bishop delivering the closing sermon.
Bishop’s theme for the day was ‘‘I am
Trying.’’ This was a wonderful ser-
mon filled with the Holy spirit. After
the sermon, one person gave her life to
Christ and joined the church.

Brothers and Sisters, God is truly
beginning to bless the 14th District
mightily.

Jeanette H. Wright
Conference Reporter

Expansion of Bus and Campus
Ministry at Greater Bethel
Nashville, Tennessee

| picture rom left to right: Pastor Wilson, Brother William Howard, Jr., Brother Ernest
esr et: Virginia E. Cooper, Brother Ted Washington, Sister Thalia Wilson, Sister
Sharon Smith, Mrs. Cleverten Wilson, Reverend Marilyn Ramsey and Brother Dave Alex-
ander. Not pictured: Sister Lenaye Garrett, Sister Debra Taylor, Sister Diane Mar-
tin, Brother Frank Owsley, Sr., and Brother Henry A, Belin, IIL

PUBLISHER’S NOTE:

We apologize to the Greater Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church,
Nashville, Tennessee, and the pastor the Reverend Harry L. Wilson for publishing
the wrong picture with their story which appeared in the March 6th issue of the

A.M.E. Recorder.

ee


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The AME Christian Recorder

March 20, 1989

Continued from Page |

The Spirit of Central Africa and

se

The A.M.E. Church Today

ment.

THE N.E. ZAMBIA LAY ORGANIZATION GREETS US
The fellowship of the N.E. Zambia people reaches out to touch us at a membership supper

During the Lay Organization fellowship the Young People were deeply involved

The major countries of Malawi,
Zambia, and Zimbabwe are under
Bishop Chappelle’s aegis.

On September 13, 1988, the skies
above Central Africa welcomed the
plane carrying Bishop Richard Allen
Chappelle, Sr., from St. Louis, Mis-
souri, many miles and cultures apart.
At a spiritual site of oneness among
the throngs of those gathering in Lusa-
ka, Zambia for the N.E. Zambia An-
nual Conference of the A.M.E.
Church, the anticipation for greeting
the new Bishop stirred the usual still-
ness.

All were anxious to greet the new
Bishop whose journey from the air-
port to the conference locale had only
just begun.

The laborious trip by motor car
would take at least fourteen hours to
reach them. There were no highways
or all-night service stations with con-
necting arteries as there were in the
United States to speed his arrival.

But the people were of good cheer.

They had to negotiate great diffi-
culties, themselves, to reach the con-
ference. Many had to walk distances
of at least twenty miles. Others tra-
veled for days preceding to attend the
event.

Bishop Chappelle counted the
hours.

After fourteen hours travel time
from New York to Lusaka, he was
promised another fourteen long hours
by car through the natural African
terrain.

Transposing his cultural perspec-
tives by substituting the process of ob-
serving for clock-watching, Bishop
Chappelle drank in the vastness of the
landscapes and its magnificent vistas.

When he finally arrived to throngs
of well wishers from the Episcopal
District, the spirit of unity flooded
through them, and the A.M.E.
Church under the power of Jesus
Christ enfolded them as family under
the warm African skies.

The site of St. Thomas Chapel, in
its initial phases of construction with-
out windows, or a permanent roof,
welcomed the conference in the heat
of summer to enjoy its open-air im-
provisational benefits!

The architectural openness coop-
erated with the African heat.

An improvised tarpaulin was
stretched across the unfinished roof,
however, to provide shelter for those
who would have to sleep in the church.

The cooking fires outside provided
fuel for food preparations.

A local Chief donated about one
hundred acres of prime farm land to
the conference. Plans were made to
utilize the land after clearing for ac-
tive food production.

Bishop Chappelle, concerned that
of fifty-eight church buildings, only

A ee

three had reached completion, set into
motion the inspirational and practical
assets needed to balance that equa-
tion.

Procedures of the conference from
the beginning—Missionary Conven-
tion Annual Conference, Opening
Worship Service, Business Sessions,
Ordinations and Appointments, and
Closing services were repeated in six
conferences, with a one week break,
between October 10-17 in various
episcopal sectors.

Initially, in Lusaka, Zambia, eigh-
ty-five congregations participated for
a conference membership of five
thousand eight hundred and thirty.

The Second Annual Conference for
N.W. Zambia was held at Mbala,
Zambia, at the host church Jordan
Chapel, then in the process of rebuild-
ing to replace the mud and thatch-
roofed structure preceding it.

A rented facility was used for the
Mbala meeting following the pre-con-
ference council conducted by Bishop
Chappelle and his presiding elders
within the old church edifice.

Seventy-seven congregations parti-
cipated in the full Missionary conven-
tion in Zambia at Mbala.

The Presiding Prelate, Bishop Rich-
ard Allen Chappelle’s group visited
Matero-Lusaka at the largest A.M.E.
Church facility marked for the South
Zambia conference and found that the
site had a dirt floor without windows
or lights. However, at the conference
date three weeks later, the floor was in
place, temporary lights strung, and
provisions made to accomodate the
two major urban centers of the area.
The conference took place with parti-
cipants from the nation’s capital, Lu-
saka and Kitwe/Ndola, an area
known as the Copperbelt.

Bishop Chappelle tells us that the
contrast between rural and metropoli-
tan areas of his constituency was of a
physical terrain only. The distinguish-
ing similarities are notable in the en-
thusiasm and commitment to the
work of the A.M.E. Church and a
strong desire to participate in the Con-
nection.

Privations in rural areas pass unno-
ticed in the larger cause of the confer-
ence business with vigorous discus-
sions and ‘“‘healthy dialogue on the na-
ture, problems, and progress of the
church in the world community.”’

Chappelle’s humanistic concerns
bypassed time allotment limits on
conference agenda encouraging indi-
vidual pastor recounting, a relished
public role before the long anticipated
conference, provided a rare op
portunity to share experiences, and
met with added warmth.

‘The display of spirit, interest, and
concern is evidence that we are on the
threshold of a new era in the Seven-

teenth Episcopal District,’’ states Bis-
hop Chappelle.

Such news is highly significant to all
of us and should help to change us in
the direction of re-forcing our ener-
gies where they are most needed in the
mission field as well as the home field.
Success fuels our desire to accomplish
even more if viewed as a modicum of
motivation all of us need to bring to
our constituencies.

Bishop Chappelle’s understandable
consternation at learning the disparity
between numbers of schools and
churches in the Kasungu, Malawi area
challenges us severely.

“The church in Malawi boasts of
having an excess of twenty-three ele-
mentary/secondary schools, but not
one completed church facility’? Chap-
pelle points out.

The infusion of new leadership was
directed by Bishop Chappelle to han-
dle activities and funds for the future.
The area within the Malawi Confer-
ence which was held at Kasungu is fer-
tile territory for the major fund rais-
ing activities of World Vision Interna-
tional and the Christian Council of
Malawi. Malawi itself is the home of
Dr. Hastings Kamazu Banda, a Wil-
berforce University graduate known
as President-for-Life Banda. Banda
donated in excess of two million dol-
lars to Wilberforce University in
Ohio.

Classroom churches fall short of a
physical presence in Malawi, cautions
Bishop Chappelle. The new episcopal
objective issued calls for at least one
church building to be completed in
each conference each year.

The South Zambia conference at
Bright Temple, Matero-Lusako in-
cluded one hundred twenty-eight con-
gregations with a conference member-
ship of nine thousand eight hundred
and one contrasted with the Malawi
Conference with conference member-
ship totalling two thousand nine hun-
dred and eighty-five.

Numbers do not diminish, however,
the historical importance of the ensu-
ing N.E. Zimbabwe Annual Con-
ference at Mutare with its thirty-seven
congregations contributing nine hun-
dred sixty-eight persons to the confer-
ence. It was the first time the annual
conference convened at this location.
In the community of Mutare where
the church is under construction, the
people of the area were treated to
their first encounter with a ‘‘Bishop,”’
acknowledging the experience with
great interest. Among those who con-
tributed their services beyond duty
were Lay Organization President Mr.
Samuel S. Saunyama and Brother and
Mrs. Phillip Nhekairo. Saunyama
took on the arduous responsibility of
driving the distance from Harare to
Mutare with the companionship of the
Nhekairo’s adding informative
details.

“Harare is the capital city,’’ Chap-
pelle notes, ‘‘and only two completed
church buildings exist here among six-
teen buildings in various forms of
completion. Four general buildings
are finished, however, for the city’s
use but need renovation.”’

The strongest of the two confer-
ences in Zimbabwe took place in the
Southwest at Ball Tabernacle in the ci-
ty of Bulawayo, reached by air travel
from Harare.

The issue of electing women to
become ordained ministers, con-
fronted by one perturbed dissident
brother, was overcome with choir and
congregation singing to drown out the
disruption and ‘‘the young ladies...
were ordained Itinerant Deacons and
assigned to congregations on Sunday
by our Bishop,’’ notes Ms. Hildah
Membe, Episcopal Secretary to the
Seventeenth Episcopal District. Bis-
hop Chappelle referred the dissident to
his pastor for counseling.

The concluding conference involved
thirty-one congregations and a confer-

Please turn to page 15
}

BISHOP AND PASTOR CONNECT

Bishop R. A. Chappelle reaches out to the Pastor of Thomas Chapel, a unique leader
pledged with his congregation to complete the church

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March 20, 1989

The AME Christian Recorder

un

Bi-Racial MLK Committee Holds
Citywide Celebration

by Eloria Newell

Laurel, MS—*“Greater love has no
man than this, that a man lay down his
life for his friends.” (John 15:13)

The late Dr. Martin Luther King,
Jr., considered the world his friend
and was willing to give his life that
those who live in it might be free.

Members of Laurel’s newly estab-
lished bi-racial Dr. Martin Luther
King, Jr., Day Committee organized a
two-day celebration of events that
would not let the people of Laurel and
surrounding areas in Mississippi and
the Eighth Episcopal District of the
A.M.E. Church forget what Dr. King
did.

The Reverend Jerry James, pastor
of First Allen A.M.E. Church of
Laurel, MS, said he took part in plan-
ning the first King celebration for this
area because he believes Dr. King was
a great help and an inspiration to
many Blacks and his civil rights work
has been instrumental in helping the
A.M.E. Church prosper over the
years.

“We must not let our children for-
get. We cannot forget. We must not let
our neighbors forget. We cannot for-
get,” Pinkie Jones, the committee’s
program director, said. “We cannot
forget. We must not forget the dream.”

Many appointed and elected
officials attended the list of events
commemorating the slain Baptist
preacher.

Through the efforts of the
committee, people—Black and
White— from Jones, Jasper, Smith,
Wayne and other counties in Missis-
sippi came together in Laurel at First
Allen A.M.E. Church to pay tribute to
that 20th century prophet who gave his
life that others might be free.

Many of those in attendance at the
various events conducted throughout
the weekend recalled the great things
that Dr. King fought for and accom-
plished in his short life here on earth.

From the many who participated in
the group’s first annual Dr. Martin
Luther King, Jr., parade, and those
who held hands during the group's
dedication service on the steps of the
Laurel City Hall and sang the Negro
spiritual “We Shall Overcome,” to
those who gave the tremendous and
electrifying speeches and songs dur-
ing the group’s gospel singing pro-
gram, oratorical speaking and
fashion/ talent show—they all remem-
bered the man who became known as
the Voice of the Negro People and
ultimately led the fight for the equal-
ity of all men.

The more than 250 people who
packed First Allen A.M.E. Church on
the night of King’s national holiday
paid tribute to the slain civil rights
leader and challenged others to keep
the dream alive.

Dr. Hill Williams, the keynote
speaker at Monday's tribute service,
told those in attendance that although
an assassin’s bullet sealed the lips of a
great leader, husband, father and
minister that sad April day in 1968,
Dr. King’s dream still lives and must
continue to live in his people.

Williams said if Dr. King’s dream 1s
to remain alive, people must learn to
work closer together, to help and stick
by their elected officials and try to help
someone else,

“Martin Luther King visioned the
ultimate freedom, The freedom of
justice, . the freedom of love,” he said
“If Dr. King’s dream is to remain alive,

it's up to us to proy ide transportation
for the elderly, training for the y

recreation for our children. . .”
Williams said the youths of Laurel are
the future of Laurel and young people
have the responsibility to keep the
dream alive.

“We, as Blacks, have come from the
back of the bus to the driver’s seat—
from segregation to integration, ’Pam
Bingham, the keynote speaker for
King’s dedication service at the Laurel
City Hall Monday morning, said. “We
have made progress, but there are
miles to go before we sleep.”

Rev. James told the First Allen
A.M.E. Church congregation and
others, during his sermon on
Sunday—that would have been Dr.
King’s 60th birthday—that Blacks
need to go to work. Recalling the hard
struggle Blacks and the A.M.E.
Church have had over the years in
order to survive, Rev. James said
people need to wake up and realize
how God has blessed them and
continue to work for a better to-
morrow.

“Our walls are torn down,” he said.
“We have got to go to work.”

Williams, a native of Laurel and a
graduate of Oak Park High School
and Jackson State University, said Dr.
King not only helped the people of
Memphis, TN, Montgomery, and Bir-
mingham, AL, but he helped all
people—Blacks and Whites, Jews and
Gentiles, Protestants and Catholics.

Bingham, who attended several of
the celebration events, reminded
people during her keynote address that
Dr. King saw no color, adding that he
“was a man who did not see the world
as black and white, but as a nation of
people.”

Members of the Dr. MLK, Jr., Day
Committee said they plan to make the
weekend celebration an annual event
that will allow adults and youths of all
races an opportunity to honor a man
who played a great part in helping
society progress over the years.

Laurel City Councilwoman Lula
Cooley, one of the only three Blacks
on the Council, and one of the first
women to be elected to the position,
presented Thaddeus Edmonson,
chairman of the committee, and Rev.
James, who also served as program ad-
visor for the committee, awards during
a recent city council meeting for their
work in organizing the first city cele-
bration in honor of Dr. King.

Members of Laurel’s 1989 MLK
Committee are Edmonson, Jones,
Rev. James, Committee Vice Chair-
man Ann Clayton, Yoland Turner,
Betty Miller, Nora Strickland, Jean
Wheeler, Rev. Cecil Ashford, and
Doneater Mack

OOPS! WE GOOFED!
In the March 6th issue we printed
Dr. Floyd Alexander, Sr., as Pre-
sident of the Y.P.D. Dr. Alexan-
der, Sr. is Secretary-Treasurer of
the Pension Department.

Mr. Floyd Alexander, Jr.
President, Y.P.D.

Contemporary Author Demonstrates Skill

of a Micro-Surgeon

by Marcia Jackson

Los Angeles, CA—During my “Wo-
men of the Bible” course recent-
ly, we received an invitation stat-
ing that Rev. Renita J. Weems would
be the Winnie Mandela Women’s
Ministries guest speaker at Ward
A.M.E. Church in Los Angeles at the
8 a.m., 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. Sunday
service.

After a heart-warming, thought-
provoking evening sermon, primarily
focusing on her own “sisterly” rela-
tionships, Rev. Weems concluded with
a question-and-answer period. My
eagerness to know and hear more from
her was immediately satisfied. Copies
of several of the articles that she has
had published in Essence and other
magazines were available that same
night, as well as the cassettes from the
morning services. During the
question-and-answer period, which
she handled with the skill of a pre-
cision mirco-surgeon, Rev. Weems
discussed in detail the steps for
aspiring writers to take to help them
get their work published. It was at this
time that her book, Just a Sister Away,
was introduced.

This book takes a very unique,
inspiring and refreshing approach to
several familiar Bible stories. Each
story highlights different females as
the lead character. The storylines are
presented from a more feminine point
of view. The description of the rela-
tionships between Hagar and Sarah or
Jephthah’s daughter and the
mourning women or Lot’s wife and her
daughters are quite revealing, sensi-
tive and heart-warming. Exceptional
care and skill was used to convey these
multi-faceted interactions.

The interpretations of the illustra-
tor, Nashormeh Wilkie, are them-
selves worthy of careful inspection and
praise.

1 whole-heartedly encourage ALL

A NEW BEGINNING

October, 1988, brought about
changes for Hines Chapel A.M.E.
Church. A new conference year is the
beginning of many things, new dreams
for the future and a new beginning for
a giant step forward.

With this ‘new’ came a new leader,
in the person of Rev. W. D. Flowers.
He came full of enthusiasm and ideas
to help Hines Chapel understand the
world in which Christ’s mission must
be undertaken and the drive and
power behind it.

Wheels were put in motion, plans
were formulated for the year and
things began to happen,

The fifth Sunday in October, the
first quarterly conference was held
and it was very successful, November
with its fall-like atmosphere brought
with it Harvest Day and Thanksgiv-
ing, for which we at Hines Chapel
have so much to be thankful for, In
December came Memorial Day in
which a tribute was given to the
deceased members. January, once
again there was the second quarterly
conference. It was even better than the
first. Each organization made reports
and the presiding elder preached a very
spiritual sermon entitled, ‘‘The Kid-
napped Ransom.’” The second Sunday
in February, was the observance of
Founder’s Day, Family Day and
Black History. The program centered
around the family and Black History
through Ages. The program included
all segments of the family, the very

Marcia Jackson

to read this book; you will never again
be able to look at biblical or personal
relationships in a superficial manner.

Rey. Renita J. Weems is an instruc-
tor in Old Testament Studies at
Vanderbilt Divinity School in Nash-
ville, TN, and an ordained elder in the
A.M.E. Church.

This Book Is for You. . .
If you are struggling with the feminist
attitude
If you are wondering how long these
things will go on
If you are looking for a “raceless”
opportunity to reunite the women of
the world
If you have had a relationship with
“anyone” and wondered how it could
turn out this way
If you have been looking for a “self-
help” guide to female relationships
If you are proud of the women of the
A.M.E. Church and seeking more
information about who and where
they are
If you are looking for excellent con-
tent, layout, imagination, and con-
tinuity in presentation
If yoware looking fora worthwhile gift
for a friend
If you are looking for “fresh” interpre-
tation of timeless Bible stories
If you are just looking for something
really good to read, try Just a Sister
Away, by Renita J. Weems.

young through senior citizens. Theme:
‘*God’s Family, Church Family, Our
Family.’’ A large crowd was present
for the occasion. A covered dish meal
was served in the Fellowship Hall fol-
lowing the service.

In our newness the pastor has or is
trying to instill in the members there is
no clear-cut solution or answer to our
problems. We can begin by trying to
understand one another rather than
tolerate each motive and habit.

While men explore the heaven,
seeking to uncover the mysteries of
the universe, here on earth the search
for the key to brotherhood and peace
goes on; but if we are to live in an at-
mosphere of brotherhood and peace,
we must reach out to others and
witness to them, the love of Jesus
Christ,

Our pastor is seeking to make our
church a place where L-O-V-E is
always in action,

We are very appreciative to our
Maker, to the Bishop, and the Pre-
siding Elder for sending such a person-
ality as Rev, W. D. Flowers, our way.
With his magnificent leadership we
shall step over into the future with a
heart to love, a mind to work and a
firm and a fixed resolution to serve
our creator in all we say or do,

Public-Relation, Committee
Ruthie L. Cogman

Jo Helen Bishop

Dorothy Potter

9


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6

Eternal Reward

“His sun rose on June 14, 1894, and set
on December 23, 1988’’

OBITUARY
Cincinnati, Ohio

Monroe County, Georgia, was the
birthplace of Robert S. Drewery. His
father and mother were the late Tom-
my and Ella Drewery. Five sisters and
brothers preceded Robert in death;
they were Opheria Drewery, Mattie
Butler, Lora Nelson, Phillip and
Willie Drewery.

Early in life, Robert married Mu-
rant and they were blessed with one
son, Thomas Drewery. Both preceded
him in death.

Religious Aspects

Robert Drewery joined St. Paul in
1950 under the leadership of the late
Rev. Ira J. Gamble. During his tenure
of thirty-eight years of service, he
served as Steward and was Steward
Emeritus at the time of his death;
Class Leader of Class No. 11; served
as local Lay President for several
years; and founded the Progressive
Club of St. Paul during the mid-fifties
under the leadership of Rev. H. L.
Smith. This organization was respon-
sible for erecting the church bulletin
board at the Clark Street church site.

Connectionally: He was elected
three times a Delegate to the A.M.E.
General Conference and twice as an
Alternate Delegate to the A.M.E.
General Conference. He served as
Chaplain of the South Ohio Annual
Conference for several years.

Communitarian: He founded the
Liberal Prayer Group, Inc., of Cin-
cinnati. This organization was a group
of Christian persons who, under his
leadership, fed the hungry, and cloth-
ed the children in several Hamilton
County Children Homes. This Prayer
Group also supported St. Paul’s
members when the need arose. The
LPG was started in 1952.

Civic Endeavors: He was a member
of the Democratic County Central
Committee (an elective position). He
was elected three times to this posi-
tion—in 1976, 1980 and 1982.

He was also a member of Senior Ci-
tizen Planning Councils.

Sports: For twelve years, Robert
Drewery was a Senior Citizen Olym-
pics competitor. His races were the
440 run, the 220 run, the 440 walk and
the 100 yard dash. He competed local-

The AME Christian Recorder

March 20, 1989
Robert S. Drewery Goes To His

ly, statewide and nationally, with
races held in Cincinnati, Akron and
St. Louis, MO. He won nineteen
medals; at least seven of those were
first-place awards.

He also received five first-place rib-
bons and a third and fourth ribbon in
other races.

Beekeeper: Robert was perhaps one
of a few, if not the only, Black regis-
tered beekeeper in the U.S. He was af-
fectionaly known by man as the
“Honey Man’’ because of his belief in
the healing and sustaining power of
honey.

His Departure: On December 23, he
departed this life at the Lincoln-Craw-
ford Nursing Home on Lincoln Ave-
nue, Cincinnati. He is survived by
three grandchildren: Thomas
Drewery, Jr., and Teresa Drewery
Ethington of Detroit, Michigan; and
Terry Drewery of Indianapolis, In-
diana; five great-grandchildren, La-
Rhonda Newman, Donald Eugene
Newman, III, Keycha Tonya
Drewery, Christian Drewery and
Devin Noah Drewery; several nieces
and nephews, cousins and other
relatives and friends.

The goals that Robert S. Drewery
set for himself were related to life
because he knew that life unfolds one
day at the time; he also knew that if he
tried to go forward more quickly than
needed, he would defeat his purpose
and deter his progress.

Humbly Submitted,
The Family and Pastor Newell

>

Grateful Acknowledgement

We, the family, thank you for all
acts of kindness and care given our
loved one during his long illness and
death, We thank you for your condo-
lences and courtesies. May God con-
tinue to bless and keep you.

Pall Bearers—The Men of St. Paul
and men of the South Ohio Lay Or-
ganization.

Flower Bearers—Ladies of the Ste-
ward Board, Stewardess Boards and
the Lay Organization.

Interment—The Vine Street Hill
Cemetery, 3701 Vine Street (Clifton),
Cincinnati, Ohio.

The Final Tribute, A Service By:
Hall-Jordan Funeral Service, 2625
Gilbert Avenue, Cincinnati, Ohio
45206.

Service of Triumph and Thanksgiving

Sister Almer McCollins Crowder

Life is a story in volumes three
The past, the present, and the yet to be.
The first is written and put away;
The second we are writing day-by-day;
The third in the story of volumes three

Is known only by God, He holds the key.

Almer McCollins Crowder was
born in Oakland (Yalobusha County)
MS, on December 25, 1914, to the
parentage of the late David McCollins
and Mattie Nelson McCollins. She
was the first child born ina closely knit
family of six brothers and five sisters.

She became interested in religious
and church affairs at a very early age,
and began the pilgrimage of a long
Christian tenure when she united with
the Robinson Chapel A.M.E. Church
in Oakland, MS.

Upon moving to Grenada to
complete her high school education,
she became a member of the Greater
Powell Chapel A.M.E. Church, under
the pastorate of the late Reverend M.
B. Buckingham.

As an ardent, devout, and
systematic church member of Powell
Church, Sister Crowder attended all
the “means of grace” and unstintingly
gave of her time and talents to king-
dom building. She served diligently
and faithfully as an Usher, Class
Leader, Announcing Clerk, Trustee,
Financial Secretary of the Official
(Administrative) Board, Superinten-
dent of the Sunday School's Primary
Department, officer of the Laymen’s
Organization, and Board of Christian
Education, and church Newspaper
Reporter for the Quarterly Confer-
ence. Her era of leadership and active
service to God and African
Methodism spanned more than fifty
years.

Sister Crowder also supported the
higher educational asirations of the
church’s young people, and assisted
many of them in their educational pur-

suits and endeavors. Moreover, for
many years, she was one of the few
church members who supported the
“Evening Vesper” (worship) service on
each Sunday night.

For a brief period in her earlier
career, Sis. Crowder moved to
Omaha, NE, where she became a
member of Big St. John’s A.M.E.
Church in Omaha, under the pastor-
ate of the late Dr. S. H. Lewis. While in
Omaha, she attended Creighton Col-
lege. She also became an affiliate
member of the Ebenezer A.M.E.
Church in Detroit, MI, under the pas-
torate of the late Dr. George W. Baber
(later bishop). Wherever Sister
Crowder went, she held high the
banner of God and African Method-
ism.

She was known to be a Christian
and charitable lady of sterling char-
acter, unusual compassion and keen
foresightedness: yet she was frank,
open and honest. Not only was she a
bulwark of the church that she loved
so well, but of the community as well.

Following a brief illness, Sister
Crowder was translated and passed
from her terrestrial labors to her
celestial reward on October 19, 1988,
in Memphis, TN. “Precious in the
sight of the Lord is the death of His
saints” (Psalm 116:15).

She leaves a great legacy, heritage,
and example for many to follow.

Among those who cherish her
memory are her husband, who shared
with her more than fifty years of
marital bliss, Master Sgt. Joseph
Crowder of Grenada; five brothers,
Mr. Elmer McCollins, Mr. David
McCollins, Jr., and Mr. Jessie
McCollins, all of Detroit, MI; Mr.
Lem McCollins of Oakland, MS; and
Mr. Leroy McCollins of Memphis,
TN; four sisters, Mrs. Macie Lee Carr
of Detroit, MI; Mrs. Lucille Harring-
ton of Wadesboro, NC; Mrs. Irene
Foundren of Memphis, TN; and Mrs.
Marjorie Cooper of Trenton, NJ; and
godson, Rev. James C. Clarke of
Texas; nieces and nephews, including
Rev. (U.S. Congressman) and Mrs.
Floyd Flake, pastor of Allen A.M.E.
Church of Jamaica, NY; other
relatives and friends.

“And I heard a voice from heaven
saying unto me, write, Blessed are the
dead that die in the Lord from hence-
forth: Yea, saith the Spirit, that they
may rest from their labours; and their
works do follow them” (Rev. 14:13).

The History and Transition of the St. James A.M.E. Church Choirs

From Senior Choirs No. | and
No. 2 to Chancel Choir
Havre de Grace, MD—Forty years
ago, the late Rev. Henry Thomas saw
the need for a second senior choir at
St. James A.M.E. Church, The exist-
ing senior choir consisted of members
from the ages of 45 to 80 years, and
there was also a junior choir com-
prised of members from 10 to 2! years
of age. There was, however, another
very talented group of young men and
women who had been omitted from
the music department of the church
whose ages fell between these two
groups. Rev. Thomas decided to con-

centrate on them

On March 2, 1948, in the home of
Mr. and Mrs. John Leo Jones, two
pillars of the church, Rev, Thomas
organized a senior choir No. 2. At this
first meeting officers were elected who
were to serve for the next twenty years
Sister Marvynne McNeil, president,
Sister Catherine Whyte, secretary, and

Sister Mary Jones, treasurer

The Wednesday before the First
Sunday, both choirs No, | and No, 2
rehearsed together and joined in
hymns of praise on Communion
Sunday, The No. 2 choir was in charge
of the music two Sundays a month,

These two choirs came together
under the pastoral leadership of the
late Rev. Willam Vernon Sewell in
1971, as both choirs had lost so many
members either through death, for
health reasons, or because of age. In
1976, Rev. Earle M, Brooks changed
the name of the choir to Chancel

Choir
The Chancel Choir sings three Sun-
days of amonth and has a membership

of 20 persons. One of the choir's most
enjoyed hymns is the “Awakening
Chorus,” which seems to greatly stir
the congregation, both emotionally
and spiritually. God has richly blessed
many of the choir members, some of
whom have sung for 30 to 50 years,

including Sister Bernardine
McKinney, Brother Rufus Thomas,
Sisters Marvynne MeNeil, Annie
Preston and Catherine Whyte

Over the years, organists for the
Chancel Choir have been Sister Sarah
(Sadie) Osborne, Rev. Arthur A,
Mitchell and Sister Nina Laurie, who
is the current church organist, and
who is a faithful and dedicated mem-
ber of the choir who can always be
found at her post of duty. More re-
cently, Sister Caledonia Henry has
been active with the choir and serves as
director

A year ago, the choir celebrated 40
years of faithful service to St. James
Sharing in the celebratory service was
the Interdenominational Choir of
Harford County, enhancing the occa-
sion with their singing

Choir members are President
Shirley Collins, Vice President Ella
Mae Patten, Secretary Zilpha Smith,

Assistant Secretary Annie Preston,

Treasurer Pattie Ford, and Chaplain
Rufus Thomas, Other members are
Sisters Catherine Whyte, Lois Jordan,
Joan Calm, Jean Hockaday, Mary
Cook, Florence Moore, Cynthia
Laurie, Myrtle Johnson, Marvynne
McNeil, Gail Huiett, Subrina Kelley,
and Bro. Douglas Greene, and Direc-
tor Caledonia Henry and organist
Nina Laurie,
The pastor of St. James is the Rev-
erend Michael O, Thomas,
Sis. Geraldine W. Cox, Reporter

Death Notice

Mrs. Rovilla Gantry, the
mother of Bishop Hubert N.
Robinson, died February I, 1989.
Funeral services for Mrs. Ganty
were held on February 6 at St.
Paul A.M.E. Chureh, Akron,
OH

————— Ee


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March 20, 1989

The AME Christian Recorder

Continued from page 1
Alarming Statistics About Blacks in Public Schools ____

punishment at rates far in excess of with help by their school dis-
White students,’’ First noted, ‘‘these trict;

experiences add up to send a clear (d) suspension data should be col-
message to Black youth about how lit- lected by race, ethnicity, gen-
tle they are valued by schools. der, and handicapping condi-
Thoughtful parents and advocates tion, then disaggregated to of-
should see a clear connection between fer a clear picture of what is
these statistics and high dropout happening at individual school
rates.’” sites; data should be readily

The NCAS report is based on data available and publicized regu-

collected by the U.S. Department of larly.
Education’s Office for Civil Rights
(OCR). OCR conducts a bi-annual
survey of public secondary schools on
school discipline and special education
referrals.

The report ranks the fifty states and
the District of Columbia according to
the largest differences between treat-
ment of Black students and White stu-
dents. Among the findings:

Schools wishing to lower overall
corporal punishment rates while low-
ering racial disparity can try the fol-
lowing:

(a) the school principal, in the role
of instructional leader, should
share current research with
teachers which concludes that
corporal punishment is not an
effective way to discipline stu-
dents;

the school principal should
make it clear to teachers that
all corporal punishment will be
delivered in the presence of an-
‘other adult and will be report-
ed to the school administrator;
similar approaches are already
required by law in many states
where corporal punishment is
allowed;

(c) data should be collected at
both district and school site
levels by race, ethnicity, gen-
der, and handicapping condi-
tion; data should be disag-
gregated to offer a clear pic-
ture of the use of corporal pun-
ishment at each school site;
data should be publicized to
parents and the community;
incidents of corporal punish-
ment should be noted in the
records of both teachers and
students; a review of this infor-
mation should be part of a
teachers evaluation; teachers
should be provided with train-
ing to strengthen their class-
room management skills so
that they will not have to resort
to the raw use of authority.

* Corporal punishment: the ‘Top 10’
states with the largest discrepancy
between corporal punishment of (b)
Black students and White students
are: Arkansas (1), Tennessee (2), Texas
(3), Florida (4), New Mexico (5),
Ohio (6), Georgia (7), Indiana (8),
Arizona (9), and Oklahoma (10);

* Suspensions: the ‘Top 10’ states
with the largest discrepancy bet-
ween suspensions of Black students
and White students are: Ohio (1),
Minnesota (2), Pennsylvania (3),
Missouri (4), Wisconsin (5), Ne-
braska (6), Kansas (7), California
(8), Iowa (9), Connecticut (10);

* Educable Mentally Retarded: the
‘Top 10’ states with the largest dis-
crepancy between EMR referrals
of Black students and White stu-
dents are: Alabama (1), Arkansas
(2),. South Carolina _ (3),North ‘
Carolina (4), lowa (5), Nebraska (d)
(6), Michigan (7), Indiana (8),
Oklahoma (9), Mississippi (10);

* Gifted and Talented: the ‘Top Ten’

states with the largest discrepancy
between G & T referrals of Black
students and White students are:
South Carolina (1), District of Col-
umbia (2), North Carolina (3),
Virginia (4), Delaware (5), Hawaii
(6), Mississippi (7), New Jersey (8),
Utah (9), Georgia (10).

NCAS suggests that school districts
which are serious about lowering
overall suspension rates while reduc-
ing racial disparity can try the follow- (a) create school-based interdis-
ing: ciplinary committees to screen

(a) offenses which will result in a special education referrals
disciplinary referral should be from teachers;
clearly defined by the school (b) require teachers to attempt se-
principal or a committee of veral different regular educa-
teachers; trivial offenses tion options for children who
should be defined as non-re- are experiencing learning diffi-
ferable; these definitions culties before allowing a refer-
should be made clear to stu- ral to special education; pro-
dents; vide skilled consultation to
disciplinary referrals should be teachers to help them develop
recorded in writing by teachers regular education options for
on a triplicate form; the of- their students;
fense should be described in (c) involve parents early—prior to
behavioral terms which relate the point when their involve-
directly to the school code; ment is required as part of the
(c) acopy of the disciplinary refer- special education placement
ral form should go on both the and referral process;
student’s record and the teach- (d) employ the least biased assess-
er’s record; the files of teach- ment techniques, being sure to
ers with multiple referrals emphasize the role of parents
should be reviewed to examine and adaptive behavior assess-
the kinds of students involved ments in the evaluation pro-
(i.e. Black males, White males, cess; eee
etc.); an examination of build- (e) establish clear exit criteria and
ing-wide referrals should be regular conduct reevaluations
part of evaluation of school of special education students
principals; staff members who to determine if and when they
need to expand their strategies should return to the regular
for equitable classroom man- classroom.
agement should be provided

Schools wishing to reduce special
education placement rates and racial
disparity in placements can:

(b

—

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8

the AME Christian Recorder

_ March 20, 1989

SS See ee

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Ira wie

A.M.E. Church owned Travel Agent

Let Allen Travel Plan Your Trip

by A. Lee Henderson

P erfect vacations and profes-
sional planning go hand in hand.
Like butter and toast it is a perfect
match. ‘‘I never realized how much
more I could see of an area that I
would normally have missed by just
using a roadmap,”’ said Mrs. Gaha-
gan. ‘“‘It is a lot of enjoyment when
you use Allen Travel Agency. They
really know how to plan your vaca-
tion. They turn a common trip into a
happy vacation.”’

“The travel agent can not only ar-
range travel with the usual expeditions
aplomb, but he or she can put toge-
ther a vast array of experience and
capabilities to save you time, money,
and hassles, ‘‘says Delta Airlines in
their special February supplement to
U.S.A. Today.

Allen Travel is owned and operated
by the A.M.E. Church and the found-
er, Dr. Frank C. Cummings, now Pre-
siding Bishop of the First Episcopal
District, had only one thing in mind.
He wanted to render service to his fel-
low Christians and his Church. He
knew the value of ownership! He
wanted the African Methodist Episco-

Bishop Frank C. Cummings

pal Church to own and operate a pro-
fessional travel company.

Try using Allen Travel because
every staff member has a vast person-
al knowledge of vacation places, cou-
pled with the latest computer techno-
logy. You will sell yourself short of
what Allen Travel can do for you if
you only ask them to book an airline
reservation or hotel.

Every loyal A.M.E. should use
Allen Travel not just because it is a
church owned agency, but because
they are courteous and efficient. Their
number one priority is ‘‘SERVICE
With A Smile.’’

Allen Travel, Inc. of Washington,
DC, renders first-class service. Have
you thought about using your church
travel agency?

When selecting a travel agency look
for the following:

© Choose a full-service agency with
a computerized reservation and ticket-
ing system.

© Choose an agency where all travel

Allen Travel Agency is located in the
A.M.E. Finance Department, Washing-
ton, DC. Dr. Joseph McKinney is the Di-
rector and you will find that he has a first
class staff.

personnel are certified, knowledge-
able and experienced.

e Make sure that the dollars turn
over in your church or community.

© Choose one that knows all there is
to know about hotel arrangements,
sightseeing tours, car rentals, meet-
ings and convention facilities.

© Choose one that gives you hard
copy confirmation of all reservations
and mails your tickets to you.

© Choose one that will get corporate
rent-a-car rates for you.

© Choose one that provides the low-
est fair evaluations, reservations, and
tickets.

¢ Make sure the agency knows the
best available air fares and schedules
and that they are fully computerized
with direct service to all commercial
airline offices world-wide.

¢ Choose one that keeps frequent
travel-profile cards that state your
personal travel preferences. Such
items that should be on file are hotel
choices, special diet requests, and pre-
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e Make sure that they will reserve
your seat in advance and issue a
boarding pass with ticket. With this,
you bypass counter and go directly to
the boarding area.

© Choose where you, as a Christian,
spend the Lord’s money. This is a part
of your Christian witness and ste-
wardship.

It is very rare indeed in any profes-
sion that advice is offered free, how-
ever, Allen Travel gives free travel ad-
vice. They do not charge for destina-
tion related counsel. As a church-
owned service business the profes-
sionals at Allen Travel realize that ob-
jective information is absolutely vital.

Plan your trip anywhere in the
world and let Allen Travel help you.
As you plan your next trip, remember
that Allen Travel, Inc., an A.M.E.
Church owned and operated agency,
has a single focus with dual visions:
GIVING GOOD SERVICE AND
SAVING YOU MONEY.

ALLEN TRAVEL IS THE ANSWER TO A HAPPY TRIP
Bishop Council and General
Board Will Convene This Summer

by Bobbye Henderson

We are dreaming of the days when
the snow in snow sections of the coun-
try will go away. It will be a joy when
the days get longer. There are no signs
right now of seeing green grass,
however, there are other signs the
Spring will soon follow.

Clothing and shoe stores display
row after row of bright pastels and
you can see a dreamy far away look in
people’s eyes as they look for bargains
is a good sign of change. Just the
thought of change to warmer weather
makes us dream of tanning sun, warm
beaches and a southern California
stint in pleasure paradise.

A sun trip may not appeal to every-
one, however, statistics reveal that
more and more Americans are flying,
floating or driving their way toward
the sun belts. Allen Travel has a few
suggestions. Heavenly Houston offers
all of joy and happiness that we
dream.

We are dreaming of the days when
the snow will go away. When the days
will be getting longer! Well signs are
appearing to let us know that spring is
on the way. Clothing and shoe stores
display row afterrow of bright pastels
and you can see a dreamy far away

look in people’s eyes as they window
shop in the mall. Just the thought of
change to warmer weather, we dream
of tanning sun, warm beaches and a
southern California stint in a pleasure
paradise.

A sun trip may not appeal to every-
one, however, statistics reveal that
more and more Americans are flying,
floating or driving their way toward
the sun belts. Heavenly Houston of-
fers you all of this and more. The
skies are blue deep down in Texas.
The Bishop’s Council and the General
Board will convene in Houston,
Texas. Allen Travel suggest that you
should make plans three months
ahead. Give them a call today and let
them save you money and make your
trip a pleasure a person could expect.
Texas has many famous historical
places to visit. Texas is a BIG
FRIEND STATE with BIG BLUE
SKIES.

Why not take it all in as you attend
the General Board and Bishop Council
meetings in Houston, Texas. Bishop
J. Haskell Mayo will become Presi-
dent of the Bishop’s Council. Bishop
John Hurst Adams is President of the
General Board.


===== DSC05769.JPG =====

March 20, 1989

The AME. Christian Recorder

re eensnnnsencnsnneesnnnnnnneen,,

Black Organization Makes
Special Appeal to President

George Bush

National Urban League calls on Presi-
dent Bush to adopt the Parity 2000 theme
during release of “The State of Black
America 1989.”

Washington, DC—“Today | am
calling on President George Bush to
adopt the Parity 2000 theme as a goal
for his administration,” stated John E,
Jacob, president and chief executive
officer of the National Urban League,
during the release of The State of
Black America 1989, at the National
Press Club in Washington, DC.

The State of Black America, a pub-
lication of the National Urban League,
is the most authoritative annual docu-
ment examining the current status and
conditions of Blacks in America.

In calling for the President to adopt
Parity 2000, Jacob said, “Parity 2000
is a theme that can allow him to claim
the higher ground—to give his admin-
istration a unifying objective—tap
into the idealism of an America fed up
with greed and glitter—and help
reshape the map of American politics
for generations to come.”

Explaining Parity 2000, Jacob said
that the National Urban League’s
priority goal is to secure Black-White
parity by the year 2000. “Our Parity
2000 theme aims at Black-White parity
in the key indicators of individual and
family well-being—such as life
expectancy, educational achieve-
ment, employment and income.”

Jacob added that, “A national
Parity 2000 goal would include the pri-
vate sector and the Black community,
as well as government. Corporate and
neighborhood-based initiatives to
radically improve education, train-
ing, hiring, health and housing will be
essential.”

Jacob said that he was encouraged
by Bush’s handling of “the difficult
period between Election Day and
Inauguration Day. His Cabinet
appointments have been wise. His
statements encouraging selection of
African Americans and other minori-
ties for key sub-Cabinet positions are
welcome. His meetings with Black
leaders demonstrated sensitivity and
concern.”

Referring to The State of Black
America 1989, Jacob said that, “In
1988, Blacks were three times as likely
as Whites to be poor. Two-and-a-half
times as likely to be jobless. Housing
segregation increased and for the
second straight year, Black life expec-
tancy declined.

“The gap has been made wider by
government cuts in programs that help
poor people survive, that create
opportunities, that enable families to
make it.” Jacob further noted that,
“The tragic disturbances in Miami last
week reflect the results of that gap, and
the growing anger and bitterness it en-
courages. Miami’s Black people were
the only major ethnic group in the
city whose unemployment rate rose
during the 1980’s. As in other cities,
Blacks did not share the prosperity
and got more than their share of
misery.”

“Our task in 1989 is to focus na-
tional attention on the growing
Black-White gap, and to begin the
process of closing the gap,” said Jacob.

The State of Black America 1989
presents nine papers prepared by ex-
perts in the fields of housing, educa-
tion, politics, religion, economics and
social welfare.

The papers and their authors are:

“Economic Status of Black Ameri-

cans,” by Dr, David H. Swinton,
Dean, School of Business, Jackson
State University.

“Critical Issues for Black Families
By the Year 2000,” Dr. Robert B. Hill,
Research Consultant,

“Black Children In America,” by
Marian Wright Edelman, Esq.,
President Children’s Defense Fund.

“To Make Wrong Right: The Neces-
sary and Proper Aspirations of Fair
Housing,” by Dr. John O. Calmore,
associate professor, Loyola Law
School.

“On Parity and Political Empower-
ment,” by Dr. Charles V. Hamilton,
Wallace S. Sayre Professor of Govern-
ment, Columbia University.

“Black Higher Education: Crisis
and Promise,” by Dr. Reginald
Wilson, Senior Scholar, American
Council of Education.

“Knowing the Black Church: What
It Isand Why,” by Dr. C. Eric Lincoln,
Professor of Religion and Culture,
Duke University.

“Valuing Diversity: The Myth and
the Challenge,” by Dr. Price M.
Cobbs, President, Pacific Manage-
ment Systems.

“Drugs In the African American
Community: A Clear and Present
Danger,” by Dr. Wade W. Nobles,
Professor of Black Studies, San Fran-
cisco State University, and Dr.
Lawford L. Goddard, Associate
Director of Education and Training,
The Institute for the Advanced Study
of Black Family Life and Culture, San
Francisco State University.

Historical Society
Presents Plaques to
50-Year Members

Newport News, VA—The Historical
Society of St. Paul A.M.E. Church
recently honored two of its members
with 50 Year Award Plaques for 50
years of continuous service to St. Paul.

The honorees on the historic occa-
sion were Mrs. Martha L. Grant and
Mrs. Marie Gillis. These ladies joined
St. Paul in 1938 under the pastorate of
the late Rev. J. Wayman Henry.

Mrs. Grant and Mrs. Gillis join a
cadre of 22 others who have been so
honored by the Historical Society. The
plaques were presented by the pastor,
the Reverend Sidney W. Williams, Jr.
Mrs. Buena W. Reese, president of the
Society, presided at the ceremony. A
reception was held in honor of the re-
cipients.

The award was established in 1979
as a means by which the church could
express in a tangible way its gratitude
to members who have exhibited
faithfulness and service through the
years.

Buena W. Reese, Reporter
Clara T. Perry, Reception Chair

A Religious Reformation

In the Eighties!

Not quite, but there is “rebellion” in
the ranks. They are the Committee to
Restore Integrity to the Office of the
Chief of Chaplains. Most of their
fellow chaplains call them the dissi-
dent twelve.

The dissidents, in nailing their
ninety-five thesis to the wall as Martin
Luther once did, are in fact focusing
their wrath upon his modern day
namesakes, the Lutherans. Presently,
all the Chiefs of chaplains in the mili-
tary come from the Lutheran
denomination. The Navy, Army, Air
Force, Marines, and even the VA have
Lutherans as their chiefs.

One of the dissidents, Dr. Zane
Alexander, a successful author, who
retired after more than twenty years in
the Army to open a family counseling
practice in Atlanta, and is now in
Williamsburg, VA, says, “I don’t think
the Lutherans perpetrated any great
takeover. They are just better looking
after each other than other churches.
They place their people in strategic
spots which eventually put them in a
position to be the Chief.” Alexander
also blames the upper echelons of the
military for letting it happen, “Let’s
face it, nobody was minding the store.”

The Committee, working hard for
over a year, sees a restructuring of how
the chaplaincy is administered. Jack
Sutherland, a retired Lieutenant
Colonel chaplain, veteran of the
Korean and Vietnam wars, and now
active in Florida politics, serves as
chairman and is credited with
providing the Committee with
direction and strategy. “It does make a
difference who is chief. I am a
Southern Baptist; how I approach
ministry is different than a Lutheran.
All denominations deserve a fair
chance at running the chaplaincy.”

The Committee insists that their
interest is not only in the Chief but the
entire system. Initially, the Committee
surveyed five hundred active duty and
retired chaplains.

The retired chaplain community re-
sponded overwhelmingly positive in
supporting the objectives of the
Committee in volunteering time and
money, notes Sutherland, “Up until
now, chaplains both active and retired,
have merely been disgruntled, but now
we are a voice.”

Active duty Army Chaplain Colonel
Jerry Autry assigned to the Presidio of
San Francisco, is a vocal proponent
for change in the chaplaincy, Autry,
not one to be taken lightly, is holder of
eight individual awards for heroism in
Vietnam, plus two purple hearts. He is
a near legend among the chaplains and
not new to controversy. Twenty years
ago, in Vietnam, he infuriated the top
chaplain brass by carrying weapons
and having his picture appear in Time
Magazine. Autry says that for as long
as he has been in the Army, the
chaplaincy has been an “old boy” net,
but gets increasingly worse. “If you are
not on the Chief’s team, then you're
out.”

The trio of Alexander, Sutherland,
and Autry, representing the twelve,
wrote an extensive and _ stinging
critique of the army chaplaincy
personnel system and submitted it to
the Secretary of the Army. The report
recommended general officer
positions be eliminated from the mili-
tary chaplaincy, personnel policies be
decided by other than chaplains, and
the civilian church be more involved in
managing the chaplains.

“The Army totally ignored us,” said
Sutherland, “and now we are pressing
our case to Congress, where our re-
commendations would save several
million dollars. overall. Eventually,
we'll see change because all the
objective facts are on our side. The
present state of the chaplaincy is
indefensible. With the change, the
chaplaincy will once again be back to
its original purpose of ministry.

The Committee to Restore Integrity
to the Office of the Chief of Chaplains

Free Drug Abuse Information Disseminated

St. Louis, MO—Participating mem-
bers of the American Association of
Orthodontists (AAO) are distributing
free drug abuse information in their
offices and by mail to their teenage
patients and their parents.

The program is a nationwide effort
by the 10,500-member association
to help teenagers and their parents
gain a greater understanding of howto
deal with potential drug abuse.

“Since the majority of orthodontic
patients are teenagers, we believe that
we have an obligation to them and
their parents,” said Dr. John Lind-
quist, president of the American Asso-
ciation of Orthodontists. “It’s esti-
mated that AAO members are treating
as many as three million teenagers,
and one way we feel we can help is to
make informative literature available
in the office and, in many cases, mail it
to patients’ homes.”

Among the material being
distributed are brochures titled: “Par-
ents: What You Can Do About Drug
Abuse,” published by U.S. Depart-
ment of Health and Human Services,
and “Just Say No” Clubs, published by
the Just Say No Foundation.

The American Association of
Orthodontists’ program has been
endorsed by Nancy Reagan, an active
supporter of the Just Say No concept.
In a letter from the White House to
AAO members, Mrs. Reagan said,

“By providing materials in your of-
fices and encouraging your patients
to become involved in “Just Say No”
Clubs, either as members or teen lead-
ers, you are sending a clear anti-drug
message to young people and their pa-
rents. Thank you for your support and
concern about our nation’s most pre-
cious resource, our children.”

Who’s
Who

in Service to the
African Methodist
Episcopal
Church?

— COMING SOON —

Be Sure To Return Your
Biographical Data to the Publisher


===== DSC05770.JPG =====

10

The AME Christian Recorder

March 20, 1989

we = TRAVELING WITH THE PRESIDING ELDER ~ **« |

Second Quarterly Conference
Held at Bethel A.M.E. Church

The meeting was opened with an in-
spirational period led by Pastor Mc-
Nealy, followed with presentation of
Presiding Elder Nichols for order of
business. Presiding Elder Nichols gave
praises to Almighty God for sparing
him to once again preside over the sec-
ond quarterly conference of such a
prosperous membership. He en-
couraged Pastor McNealy as well as
the membership to continue look-
ing forward, for God will reward
for a job well done. Presiding Elder
thanked Bethel for the financial sup-
port given toward the building of the
new Church in the district, and asked
that we continue to be supportive both
spiritually and financially.

Remarks were given by Mrs. Ni-
chols, who congratulated the reports
given, and was particularly impressed
with the report given from the Mis-
sionary Department, over $1700.00
was given to the sick and shut-ins as
well as needy families at Christmas

time. She closed her remarks by say-
ing ‘*Caring and helping is what Chris-
tianity is all about.

The meeting was then adjourned
until services on Sunday, January 15th
by Presiding Elder Nichols.

Sunday morning 11:00 AM Wor-
ship: Order of service was conducted
by Pastor McNealy, who presented
our Presiding Elder Nichols in a most
reverent manner. that being the way
of a question: ‘‘Do we have a voice?’’
Then he answered the question—
Thanks be to God we have one; that
being our own Presiding Elder Nichols
for our morning message.

Our church family will use his clos-
ing thought, ‘‘God’s word will always
stand,’’ as we make preparations for
two annual days, Founder’s Day, in
February, and Women’s Day in
March.

Sister I. M. Blackmon, Reporter
Rev. W. E. McNealy, Pastor

The Logtown Bethel A.M.E. Church
THIRD QUARTERLY CONFERENCE

The Third Quarterly Conference
was held at Logtown Bethel A.M.E.
Church. The business part of the Con-
ference convened with Pastor Holt in
charge leading the opening song, ‘‘A
Charge to Keep I Have’’, and the
Lord’s Prayer. Pastor Holt presented
our Presiding Elder, Dr. H. E. Terrell
who gave us encouraging words. Sister
Patrica Ellerbee was appointed secre-
tary, Sister Edith Williams was ap-
pointed reporter. Dr. H. E. Terrell
asked Pastor Holt had the discipline
questions been asked, his reply was
yes; then he asked did either item need
dealing with and Rev. Holt answered
no. Pastor Holt called for Jordan
Grove, Sister Lucile Allen, reporter,
Gray’s Chapel, Sister Edith Williams,
reporter, reports received and
adopted.

Sister Diana Pennamon read re-
ports from Logtown Bethel, they too
were adopted. Sister Ada Davison
read reports from the Charge Mis-

sionary Society.

Dr. Terrell gave thanks to the
Charge for their good report.

Pastor Holt received a love offering
for our Elder. The business parts of
the Third Quarterly Conference was
closed with a prayer by Sister Clara
Pennamon.

Sunday morning, the Quarterly
Conference convened with Rev. N.
Holt in charge. The worship Hymn of
Praise #182 Pass Me Not O’Gentle
Savior. Brother Alton Taylor gave the
invocation and scripture was given by
Rev. Holt from Luke 12:13. The Log-
town Bethel Young Adults and
Y.P.D.’ers combined choirs to sing
God is Worthy to be Praised. The
announcement was given by Patricia
Kendall. Pastor Holt presented the El-
der and the choir sang, Call Jesus and
Tell Him What You Want.

Sister Patrica Ellerbee, Secretary
Sister Edith Williams, Reporter

First Episcopal
Woman Bishop Says
Religion First

Boston, MA (AP)—The Reverend
Barbara Harris, elected the first
woman bishop in the 2,000-year tradi-
tion of apostolic succession, said yes-
terday she sees her mission as mainly
religious and not political.

“I do not intend to be an inter-
national Anglican gadfly, moving
around to promote ordination of
women, but I will be as supportive as
possible,” she said at a news
conference the day after the Episcopal
Church approved her election
following a long and sometimes bitter
debate.

Harris was joined at the news con-
ference by Bishop David Johnson of
Boston, her new boss, who sounded a
note of conciliation.

“Jt is a time for reception, a time for
inviting,” he said.

Harris, who is Black, said she
believed an element of prejudice
lurked in some of the criticism of her
background and qualifications to be a

Third Quarterly
Conference Held at
Grant Chapel

The third Quarterly Conference was
held at New Grant Chapel A.M.E.
Church in East Point, GA.

After devotion, Pastor R. B. Fort-
son presented Elder H. E. Terrell,
Presiding Elder of the Griffin District
of the Macon, GA, Conference.

Elder Terrell made introductory re-
marks before beginning his business
session of the conference. Among his
remarks, he reported that the Griffin
District was one of the leading Dis-
tricts in the conference making a 100
percent report.

All organizations made their re-
ports both written and financial.

Elder Terrell delivered a soul stir-
ring sermon at the Sunday morning
worship service. His subject, ‘*Snoop-
ing Around after Dark and Got
Caught.’’ St. John 3:1. Why do you
snoop? You don’t want to be seen and
lack conviction—which makes you a
coward. The so-called smart people
are the snoopers.

Quarterly Conference Held at
St. James, Bartow, Florida

The business session of the second
Quarterly Conference of St. James
African Methodist Episcopal Church
convened with the Rev. LeRoy Ken-
non, presiding elder of the Lake Dis-
trict, Orlando Florida Conference and
the Rev. Raymond G, Heastie, pas-
tor, in charge.

Pastor Heastie opened the session
with appropriate devotions and pre-
sented the Presiding Elder who pro-
ceeded to organize the Conference as
follows:

Secretary, Mrs. Bert C. Holland

Reporter, Mrs. Agnes E. Stephens

Marshall, Mr. John F. McNair

Disciplinary questions answered by
the secretary and reports by the
various Boards and Auxiliaries gave
insight into the spiritual, financial and
general welfare of the church.

In other business, the Presiding
Elder:

1. Conducted memorial services for
deceased members; Bro. Leroy
Johnson, Sis. Christine Jackson
and Bro. Robert Alexander.

2. Renewed licenses to preach for
Bro. Kenneth Graydon, Bro. Cla-
rence Vickers and Bro. Clarence
Williams.

3. Confirmed stewards and_ ste-
wardesses for the conference year.

4. Held election of District steward
and Annual Conference delegate.
Mrs. Rose C. Broome was elected
to represent the church in this dual
capacity.

Mrs. Vida Kennon, wife of the Pre-
siding Elder accompanied her husband
to this session and gave remarks. Mrs.
Doris L. Heastie, wife of the Pastor,
also gave remarks as this was the first
Quarterly Conference since Pastor
Heastie’s appointment to Saint
James.

The session closed on a high note of
commendation to the Presiding Elder

and pastor for the instructive, effici-
ent and harmonious manner in which
the District and the local church are
being led.

The preaching session of the Quar-
terly Conference began at 11 A.M.
with Pastor Heastie presiding and the
Inspirational Choir providing music
under the direction of Mrs. Ellyce
Jenkins,

Members of the Lakeland Alumni
Chapter, Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity
worshiped with us in Observance of
their Founder’s Day. Fraternity bro-
thers served in various positions
throughout the service. The Chapter’s
Sweetheart and spouses were also in
attendance.

Prior to his sermon, the Presiding
Elder challenged the congregation to
be aware of the need to continue our
struggle for freedom remembering
that Blacks are not free until every
one of us is free. His challenge was
accentuated by his explanation of the
colors in the stole he was wearing as
part of his clerical attire: green,
symbolizing freedom; red, symboliz-
ing bloodshed in America and Africa
in the struggle for freedom; black,
symbolizing the African Continent
and Black people everywhere.

Mrs. Doris L. Heastie, First Lady
of Saint James, introduced special
guests: Mrs. Vida Kennon, wife of the
Presiding Elder and First Lady of the
District; their daughter, Alicia (Lisa);
and Mrs. Mary W. Blow, wife of re-
tired minister/teacher, Rev. P. L.
Blow. Mesdames Kennon and Blow
gave encouraging remarks.

Thus ended a very successful Quar-
terly Conference with words of appre-
ciation from the pastor and presiding
elder and a call for continued spiritual
growth and development throughout
this conference year!

Sister Agnes Edwards Stephens, Reporter

First Quarterly
Conference Held at
Mary Springhill

The first Quarterly Conference was
held at the Mary Springhill A.M.E.
Church for the Conference year
1988-1989. Presiding Elder G. K.
Tomkies was reappointed elder of the
Shreveport District and was presented
in the Sunday School to begin his first
quarter of the year.

The business session followed. All
departments had full reports. Special
praise for the growing Sunday School
by the Presiding Elder.

Praise God from whom all blessings
flow was sung and a prayer of thanks
that no member had been deceased.

At the close of the meeting Elder
Tomkies gave words of gratitude and
that the pastor and church family
would have a blessed Holy season and
a prosperous Conference year.

Rev. Jonathan Washington, Pastor
Rev. G. K. Tomkies, Presiding Elder
Sister Jessie S. Jenkins, Reporter

Business of the
Quarter Held at
Mount Moriah __

The First Quarterly Conference was
held at Mount Moriah A.M.E.
Church with Rev. O. H. Houston pre-
siding. He is also presiding elder of the
Daytona Beach District and Rev.
Leroy W. Sneed is the pastor.

Presiding Elder Houston presented
his wife Mrs. Arrie Houston the first
lady of the Daytona Beach District.
Mrs. Houston always give encourag-
ing remarks. The choir sang out of
their hearts—Glory, Glory to the New
Born King. The scripture—Isaiah 9:1-
7 was read by Rev. Leroy W. Sneed.
After the singing of ‘‘Oh For A Closer
Walker With God,’’ and ‘‘He Touch-
ed Me,” the presiding elder spoke
from Luke 16:16 on the subject
“Press on the Great Doctor.

The spirit was high throughout the
Quarterly Conference.

Rev. Leroy W. Sneed, Pastor
Louise Dupree, Reporter

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===== DSC05772.JPG =====

March 20, 1989

The AME Christian Recorder

_
_

Memorial for Mrs. Valerie Crouch

Dedicated Missionary

Sister Valerie Knight Crouch

Mrs. Valerie Knight Crouch, loyal
missionary and church worker, passed
to the Great Beyond January 11,
1988. During her illness she stated
several times she would like for mis-
sionaries of today to know of some of
her experiences in the missionary
field. Below are excerpts of her life as
she talks to Mrs. Vera Granger, Lydia
Catchings and others who frequently
visited her during her illness:

“IT was born Valerie Mosely to the
Reverend Green Mosely and Hattie
Spivey Mosely, March 2, 1893 in Ear-
ly County, Georgia. I was taught reli-
gious doctrines and principles by my
parents. I attended Paine College,
Augusta, and Albany State, Georgia,
in preparation for teaching in the Ear-
ly County School System.

I first married the Reverend Robert
Knight. Some years after his death I
married Rev. C. C. Crouch, presiding
elder who also preceded me in death.

I believe I have touched all phases
of religious, social, and civic life of all
people. Transportation is no problem,
now. I have walked miles, sometimes
in mud, to care for fellow Christians.
Oftentimes my transportation was by

horse and buggy, taking two days to
go where we travel now in a few
hours, carrying food grown in my gar-
den for the hungry, and worked by my
hands.

I have stayed up late at night, mend-
ing and making clothes for children,
and I expected no pay. I have cut and
carried wood for heat and cooking for
the needy. You see life is for service. I
have helped build many churches, not
just physically, but spiritually as well.
I have set up workshops to help poor
people pay utility bills. I have never
refused a task because I was too tired
or too busy. I feel I have been loyal to
the Missionary cause.

I have been elected to twelve
General Conferences, many Quadren-
nials, and I have worked on local, dis-
trict, and state levels for many years. I
know I have been loyal to the work of
Christian mission.

I have been a licensed beautician, a
classroom teacher, and Life Insurance
agent. For years I have owned and
operated Knight’s Florist Shop. What-
ever my occupation has been I have
tried to help others.

Mrs. Crouch was a fine, quiet, un-
assuming person. Members and
friends of Southwest Georgia Confer-
ence will long remember her. The Me-
morial is but a small indication of her
devotion and service to and for her
church.

Just a few weeks preceding Mrs.
Crouch’s illness, she had taken the
lead in preparing for our Annual Feb-
ruary Breakfast. She was never a
shirker.

Mrs. Mattie C. Thomas, Reporter
S. W. Georgia Missionaries
Mrs. Vera Granger, President

St. Paul A.M.E. Church Wins
1988-89 Conference Year Trophy

Pittsburgh Conference Lay Organization
Presents
Mattie Trent Trophy

Pittsburgh, PA—Attorney Lee O.
Cauley served as general chairperson
of the Annual Mattie Trent Christian
Talent Show which was held at St.
James A.M.E. Church. The talent
show is named for the late Mattie
Trent who was an active member of St.
James and Christian Editor for the
New Pittsburgh Courier. She also
served as Pittsburgh Conference Lay
Activity Director.

St. Paul A.M.E. Church, under the
lay leadership of Mrs. RuthG. Dalton,
and of Pastor Taylor T. Thompson,
were named recipients of the Trophy
for their financial contribution to the
Conference Lay event through sales of
tickets, patrons and ads.

Talent contest winners were Renee
Hyatt and Tedra (Ist), John C. Miott
and Duane C. Moore (2nd), and
Tashika Nekeda Cox (3rd) in the Chil-
dren’s Division. Winners in the Teen
Division were Dwan Dudley (Ist),
James Moore (2nd), and Antonesia
Williams (3rd).

Winners in the Adult Division were
Dawn Clisby (Ist), William Gease
(2nd), and Harry Yager (3rd), with
Ronald Payne receiving a special
award for his piano recital

Participants in the program
included Mrs. Katie Everett Johnson,
Conference Lay Director, Mrs. Mary
C. Davis, Mrs. Anna K. Comer,
Mistress of Ceremonies, Mrs. Beverly

Shropshire, Mrs. Sara Thomas, Mrs
Odessa Bryant, and Dr. Floyd W.
Alexander, Sr.

Other talent contestants were Antia
Williams, Kevin Sims, Gary Hart,
Daniel Robinson, Fred Ellison and the
Trinity A.M.E. Chorus. Special guest
performances were given by Miss
Sherdina Harper, Ms. Emma L
Williams, Ms. Carol Thurman, and
the Friends in Christ

Recognition of high school and col-
lege graduates was given by the Con-
ference Lay Organization, thus
encouraging the attainment of an
education, Among those recognized
were Miss Sherdina Harper and Dr
Barbara J. Hunter of Bethel, and Miss
Dawn Clisby of Mt. Zion

ET Oe a ee I

Basic Sunday School
Growth In Black
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Topics like Finding Prospects for Growth, Enlisting Workers for
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This is a must for those who are administering or teaching today’s Sun-
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So, You Want To Be A Christian! by Edith Hol-
land Bryant. We are living in a period of revolution
where there is a broad feeling of rejection to some
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===== DSC05773.JPG =====

12

The AME Christian Recorder

March 20, 1989

HOMEGOING CELEBRATION FOR

Mrs. Rovilla Ontario Gantz
July 8, 1889 - February 1, 1989

Mrs. Rovilla Ontario Gantz, ninety-
nine years old, was laid to rest on
February 6, 1989, in Akron, Ohio.
Mrs. Gantz, mother of Bishop Hubert
N. Robinson and sister of the late Dr.
Charles Leander Hill, was a loyal,
lifetime member of the African Meth-
odist Episcopal Church. She died five
months before her one hundredth
birthday.

One in a family of five daughters
and one son, Mrs. Gantz received her
education from the public schools and
then entered the field of fashion de-
signing and dressmaking. A resident
of Akron for more than fifty years,
she was a member of the Jolly Neigh-
bors Club and of the Missionary Soci-
ety of St. Paul A.M.E. Church.

A self-employed seamstress, she
used her extensive talents to design
and fashion clothes for others, and,
although she might have fashioned for
herself, a career as a world-class cou-
turier, her generous and giving nature
never permitted her to engage in such
an ambitious goal. Much of which she
made was given away.

Her daughter, Kathryn Roberts, of
Akron, recalled, ‘‘She made her own
patterns and did little things like cover
buttons. Because of her talent, I was
named the best-dressed girl at West
High School. She even made my wed-
ding dress. She would stay up sewing
into the night—sewing for others. She
sewed until she was into her eighties.
Only arthritis slowed her.””

Mrs. Roberts also remembers the
wonderful aromas that wafted from
her mother’s kitchen: melt-in-the-
mouth homemade rolls, her famous
apple dumplings and shrimp creole.

Granddaughter, Kathy Roberts
Knight, also has fond memories of her
grandmother and her generous spirit.
“She sewed for all of my friends, and
never charged a dime,’’ she recalls,

As an ardent member of St. Paul
Church, Mrs. Gantz gave of herself

ROVILLA ONTARIO

GANTZ

unstintingly to help support its life and
needs by presenting lavish fashion
shows, which she designed and cho-
reographed. Devout and faithful to
the church, she totally supported each
pastor, in turn, assigned to the charge,
lending the same measure of support
she would have wished for her bro-
ther, Dr. Charles L. Hill, and her son,
Hubert N. Robinson, in their respec-
tive ministries.

Her latter years were spent confined
to home and in nursing facilities.
After a long illness, she died on
February 1, 1989, at Akron General
Medical Center. Homegoing services
were held at the church she served so
faithfully and long, St. Paul African
Methodist Episcopal Church, Akron,
Ohio, where the Rev. Andrew New-
berry, pastor, presided. Other partici-
pants in the service for Mrs. Gantz in-
cluded the Rev. Allan Walker, the In-
vocation; the Rev. John Brown, the
New Testament Scripture; Acknow-
ledgments by Ms. Doris Roberts;
Presiding Elder J. Allen Parker, re-
presenting the ministers of the 4th
Episcopal District; Bishop Robert
Thomas, Jr., for the Council of Bis-
hops; and a solo, ‘‘Great Is Thy Faith-
fulness’’ by Ms. Patricia Popeete.

The eulogy for Rovilla Ontario
Gantz was delivered by Bishop
Richard Allen Hildebrand, presiding
prelate of the Third Episcopal Dis-
trict.

Serving as pallbearers were grand-
sons Kenneth Glenn Roberts, Norris
Roberts, Jr., Dennis Hubert Robin-
son, Walter Hampton and Antoine
Knight, and Ernest Donnie, a friend.
The Jolly Neighbors Club served as
flowerbearers.

Rovilla Ontario Gantz mothered
two sons and one daughter, Hubert N.
Robinson, retired Bishop in the
A.M.E. Church, John Kenneth
Robinson, chemist at Western Re-
serve University, who predeceased her
in May of last year; and Kathryn Ann
Roberts, a home-maker of Akron.
She also leaves two sisters, Vivian
Roberts, Urbana, Ohio, and Alberta
Jenton of Rochester, New York; three
grandsons, Dennis Hubert Robinson,
Atlanta, Kenneth Glenn Roberts, cap-
tain of the U. S. Army, and Norris
Roberts, Jr., Akron; and three grand-
daughters, Denise Robinson, Cleve-
land, Cassandra Hampton, Detroit,
and Kathryn Knight, Akron; seven
great-grandchildren and many, many
friends acquired over the years who
will treasure their memories of a
gracious and loving spirit

FAME Lays on Skates

Margaret Goldman

The Lay Organization of the First
A.M.E. (FAME) of Los Angeles is
perhaps the most mobile of the mov
ing, literally and figuratively, The
organization (and sister churches that
shared the ride) has traveled extensive

ly to Hong Cong, Brazil, Argentina
and Cairo, Egypt, over several years
A tour of West Africa, highlighting
Abidjan, the Black Paris, and Senegal
and Sierra Leone is planned for Sep-
tember 16-27, 1989, Inquiries regard
ing this tour should be addressed to
Margaret Goldman, FAME Lay Pre-
sident, 4162 Lockland Place, Los An
geles, CA 90008, Phone (213) 292-
2468

The Lay Organization's annual day
was March 19, 1989, and featured Les
Brown, one of America’s most
dynamic motivational speakers, The
organization places special emphasis
on positive mental attitudes, a part of
the twenty point outreach program

outlined by our pastor, Dr Cecil L
Murray

ALLEN A.M.E. CHURCH, TACOMA, WA

Celebrates 100th Anniversary __

Dr. R. A. Washington and Dr. V. S. Burroughs

The Allen A.M.E. Church of
Tacoma, Washington, is celebrating
its 100th Anniversary, February 12,
1989 through August 6, 1989. Allen is
the oldest predominantly Black con-
gregation in the city of Tacoma. Al-
though the State of Washington is
celebrating its centennial, Allen
A.M.E. Church was organized in Feb-
ruary 1889; whereas, the State of
Washington entered the union in No-
vember 1889.

The theme for the celebration is
“Songs, Sermons, and Saints: Pre-
serving the Oral History, Religion,
and Folklore of Afro-Americans.”’

The celebration began with a week
of Spiritual Power, February 13th
through 17th. Each night local church-
es shared with Allen in the worship
service by the delivering of the preach-
ed word and songs of inspiration.
Those present were from the Baptist,
C.M.E. and C.O.G.I.C. de-
nominations.

Sunday, February 19th, marked a
very special day for Allen in that one
of its former pastors returned to
deliver the Anniversary message. Rev.
Dr. Richard Allen Washington,
Presiding Elder of the California Con-
ference and Chairman of the Episco-
pal Committee served as pastor of
Allen from 1946-1952. Dr. Washing-
ton reminded Allen of its past, com-
mended the congregation on present

accomplishments and gave us hope for
the future. A reception was held for
Dr. and Mrs. Washington, at which
time they were able to greet old and
familiar acquaintances. One such per-
son was Mrs. Worther Hamilton, a
former resident of Tacoma, who join-
ed Allen in 1899. She celebrated her
100th birthday in September, 1988.

During worship service, proclama-
tions were read by the assistant to the
Governor of the State of Washington
and Mayor of Tacoma. Each procla-
mation praised Allen for leadership in
the community. Also present were
Tacoma’s only Black City Council-
man and the Presidents of the Tacoma
Urban League and the NAACP.

On this day five hundred plus mem-
bers and visitors were blessed to wit-
ness such a spirit-filled celebration.
Three new members united with
Allen, during this service.

Under the leadership of Rev. Dr.
Vernon S. Burroughs, Allen A.M.E.
Church of Tacoma has made a state-
ment of HOPE to the community.
Since being assigned to Allen, one-
and-one-half years ago, Pastor Bur-
roughs has performed the job with en-
thusiasm, professionalism, zeal and
the HOLY SPIRIT. Allen’s new
church home and one hundred eighty
new members let the children of GOD
know that the LORD is still in the
blessing business.

North Orlando District

Conference Held

The North Orlando District Confer-
ence was called by the Elder using
Psalm 133:1, ‘‘Behold How Good and
Pleasant it is for Brethren to Dwell
Together in Unity.’’ They came ready
to give an account of their steward-
ship.

Topics and presenters included:
Preachers for Orders, Preachers for
Annual Conference, Mission Church-
es and Voter Registration, The Role
of the Church in Social Justice, Rev,
R. D. Daniels, Rev, Samuel L, Green,
Sr., Rev, James T, Golden, were at
their best in presenting and leading the
discussions,

Every night and noon-day was &
time of rejoicing and praising God.
Rev. Samuel L. Green, Sr., selected
for his subject ‘Neutrality is Nausea
ting’ —using a Sub-Topic “You
Make Me Sick.” Rev. K, D, White,
Sr., the energetic presiding elder,
selected the subject ‘‘Human and Di

vine Friendship.”” Rev, James O, Wil-
liams brought a very inspiring message
on “The Movement They Couldn't
Stop."’ Rev, David Edmond rocked
the audience by selecting for his sub-
ject, ‘“‘Wash Me All Over.” Each
speaker was trying to instill in the con-
gregation that it is time to stop and
listen to the Master's voice.

Friday night, Senior Choirs came
from all across the district. They
didn’t come looking for the Holy
Spirit, they brought it with them, We
had a marvelous time,

It is not enough to say that this con-
ference was both an informative and
spiritual experience, but it was a re-
freshing and enjoyable delight for all
who attended.

We give thanks to Rev, Jack Wil-
liams and his members for a job well
done,

Mary Alice Jenkins, Reporter

———


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March 20, 1989

The AME Christian Recorder

Session of the Chattanooga
District Conference

Though it was to be a session of the
Chattanooga District Conference,
February 10 and 11, 1989, the atmos-
phere was that of an Annual con-
ference most of the time. This session
was held in the beautiful edifice of the
Mary’s Chapel A.M.E. Church about
five miles west of Fayetteville, Ten-
nessee. The Bishop's spotlight, scrat-
ches the surface of the beauty of the
work of what I once called the master
builder, Rev. Willie Leslie. There are
but a very few A.M.E. Churches with-
in the cities that have the grandeur of
Mary’s Chapel.

I am sorry that I can’t give you the
cost of this work, but I was told that
the balance owed is less than $15,000.
This in itself speaks for the very fine
leadership and fellowship of this con-
gregation.

Presiding Elder O. Mason, remind-
ed me of the days when I was a teen-
ager at a special home for boys. One
summer we climbed a pear tree and
after eating those green pears, the
house mother had to give us the real
cure for a stomach ache. As years
went by, at Wilberforce, Ohio, near
the home of the late Bishop R. C.
Ransom, he permitted us to get some
of the pears from his tree. I asked Bis-
hop Ransom why did those pears taste
better than those I had eaten at Bonny
Oaks, he replied, ‘‘because they are
much more seasoned,’’ I think that is
what I now see in Presiding Elder Ma-
son, the summer heat of life has sea-
soned him.

It was very gratifying to see how
Presiding Elder Mason utilized most
of the ministers of the District during
the program of the Conference. Let us
hear no more talk about a change.
Another word from the country boys,
we don’t need to break another one in.

Our Theme Again This Year;
‘<Back to the Basics’’

On Friday morning, we had the fol-
lowing classes. Ministerial Admin-
istration, taught by Rev. E. W. Jack-
son, and Church Administration
taught by Rev. Robert Keesee the
Dean of the Conference Board of
Christian Education.

The Ministers met in the complex of
Mary’s Chapel while the Missionary
Society met with Mrs. Willena Brown
the Conference Branch Missionary
President. Rev. A. C. Griffin, who
recently completed a clinical and pas-
toral care education course, taught
the class of Pastoral Ethics.

The instructor used the following
outline: What do we owe our prede-
cessor? How should a pastor leave the
parsonage when transferred to an-
other charge? Using care in receiving
new members in the church, the con-
troversy between members. Pastoral
visitation at the Hospital, and the Pas-
toral duty to a family when death
comes.

Afternoon church music was taught
by Rev. David Strong and Rev. W. H.
Smith. Rev. Edward Jackson request-
ed some of the Lay members to serve
as members in a Board meeting. He
used a Lay person to serve as a Pre-
siding Elder visiting the meeting. He
had a pastor to act as the lead official
in the church, and one Minister to act
as Pastor. This dialogue was one that
should be held at an Episcopal District
Meeting.
dialogue was one that should be held
at an Episcopal District Meeting.

The Conference was blessed to have

the Presiding Elder of the
Nashville District visit us.

The Board of Examiners brought
before the conference a young lady
seeking to become part of our Zion,

The Friday night Worship Service
brought out the best in all of those
who participated. The Rev. B. R.
Booker presided and I believe that all
pastors who were present were used to
some fashion. The Mary’s Chapel
Choir invited the Holy Spirit into the
service when they took me back to the
old time singing of ‘‘I’m so Glad I’m
Here.’’ We don’t get to hear these
kind of songs in the big cities, not un-
til Rev. David Strong took a text from
Genesis Chapter 49:1-2. The sermon
was very Biblically and homiletically
sound. This preacher of the Gospel
must go up in the church. The Pre-
siding Elder in his remarks stated that
all charges were up in their reports.
This was to let us know, that the Dis-
trict is well.

The following day, Saturday, we
met on time, and the lay members
met, while pastors reviewed the sub-
ject of the day before. While we were
wrapping up the Right Reverend C. E.
Thomas, entered the church. Bishop
Thomas shared a few words of wis-
dom as well as made some requests
from the conference.

The Presiding Elder invited Bishop
Thomas to meet with us in the District
Sunday School Convention. June 8-10
at the Dubose Center on Mount Eagle
in Tennessee.

We are looking forward to another
fine session of the Chattanooga Dis-
trict of the East Tennessee Confer-
ence.

Come and see us in action. We are
small (less than 30 churches) but we
know our job, and we try to do it by
the Grace of God. So, pray for us.

Rev. O. Mason, Presiding Elder
Rev. A. C. Griffin, Reporter

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THE BIBLE PROMISE BOOK+e#

“Another Good Man” Serves His God,

Church and Country

Iwakuni, Japan—The Reverend Jon
Reginald Black became the newest
A.M.E, Chaplain in the Navy recently
On that day, the

received

Marine Corps
another good man, for
Chaplain Black had been assigned to
the First Marine Aircraft Wing,
Detachment “A,” Iwakuni, Japan
Although a Naval Chaplain, LTJG
Black wears Maine uniforms and
serves side-by-side with the Marines.

Military life is not new to Chaplain
Black. In 1975, he enlisted in the Navy
as a hospital corpsman, After eight
years of active duty, he returned to the
civilian world to attend seminary. In
1984, Chaplain Black was commis-
sioned an Ensign in the Theological
Student Program.

In accordance with the highest tra-
ditions of African Methodism, Chap-
lain Black is well prepared for his new
ministry. He graduated from Gross-
mont Community College of San
Diego, CA, in 1980. At Grossmont, he
studied cardiopulmonary technology
and was awarded an Associate of
Science degree. He then matriculated
at Southern IIinois University in Car-
bondale, IL. There he studied Health
Care Administration and received a
Bachelor of Science degree in 1983.
His theological training was received
at Garrett Evangelical Theological
Seminary in Evanston, IL, at Garrett,
Chanary in Evanston, IL. At Garrett,
Chaplain Black received several ac-
colades,, including the Archibald
Carey Fellowship 1985, the Thomas
A. Stanford Greek Award 1986, and
the Quintin P. Nolte Parrish Ministry
Award 1986. In May 1986, he com-
pleted his Master of Divinity degree.

Chaplain Black, an ordained
Itinerant Elder of the A.M.E. Church,
has also prepared himself with a host
of ministerial experiences. He has
served as an associate minister of
Eternal Flame A.M.E. Church of
North Chicago, IL, 1982-1986. He has
preached _Tevivals in California,
Illinois and South Carolina. He com-
pleted 400 contact hours of counseling

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Chaplain J. R. Black

at Bethany Hospital of Chicago. He
was one of the youth speakers during
the 1985 Chicago Annual Conference,
and he was a presenter at the 1987
Northeast, South Carolina Annual
Conference. He has served as the
Sumter, SC, District Secretary and
member of the District Board of
Examiners. He has also served as the
Northeast Conference Engrossing
Secretary and member of the
Presiding Elder Salary Committee.

The apex of his ministerial experi-
ences was his two-year pastorship at
Ebenezer A.M.E. Church of
Mayesville, SC. While at Ebenezer, a
400-member church in the historic
birthplace of Mary McLeod Bethune,
he lead the congregation in an exten-
sive renovation plan. The membership
also grew by 20% and several new
programs were established. Under
Chaplain Black’s administration,
Ebenezer became a leading church of
the district.

Chaplain Black is married to the
former Donna E. Howell. They have
three daughters: Rebekah Ann, age 8;
Grace Esther, age 6; and Tamar
Elizabeth, age 4. The Blacks reside
happily in Iwakuni, Japan. Chaplain
Black has been assigned to Japan for
three years.

To communicate with Chaplain
Black, write: Office of the Chaplain,
MAG-12, FPO, San Francisco, CA
96603, Chaplain J. R. Black, LTJG
U.S. Navy, Squadron Chaplain.

— Also —

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===== DSC05775.JPG =====

The AME Christian Recorder

March 20, 1989

FIRST EPISCOPAL DISTRICT
AME CHURCH
ANNUAL CONFERENCE

BISHOP FRANK C. CUMMINGS

NEW JERSEY
ANNUAL CONFERENCE
April 5-9, 1989
WMS Annual Day
April 4, 1989
Bethel A.M.E. Church
512 N. Church Street
Moorestown, NJ 08057
Church Telephone: (609) 235-3152
Pastor’s Telephone: (609) 234-7624
The Rev. Vernal Simms, Host Pastor
The Rev. John H. Johnson Jr., Host P.E.

DELAWARE
ANNUAL CONFERENCE
April 13-16, 1989
WMS Annual Day
April 12, 1989
Dickerson Chapel A.M.E. Church
South Dupont Highway
Millsboro, DE 19966
Church Telephone: (302) 934-6360
Pastor’s Telephone: (302) 398-4437
The Rev. Joseph Brame, Host Pastor
The Rey. Joseph D. Tull, Host P.E.

NEW YORK
ANNUAL CONFERENCE
April 26-30, 1989
WMS Annual Day
April 25, 1989
Emmanuel A.M.E. Church
37-41 West 119th Street
New York City, NY 10026
Church Phone: (212) 722-3969
Pastor’s Phone: (914) 636-6334
The Rev. Millard D. Birt, Host Pastor
The Rev. W. Lee Freeman, Host P.E.

NEW ENGLAND
ANNUAL CONFERENCE
May 18-21, 1989
WMS Annual Day
May 17, 1989
Bethel A.M.E. Church
110 Grove Street
Bridgeport, CT 06606
Church Telephone: (203) 384-9200
Pastor’s Telephone: (203) 371-0214
The Rev. Ellis B. Louden, Host Pastor
The Rey. Herbert L. Eddy, Host P.E.

PHILADELPHIA
ANNUAL CONFERENCE
May 24-28, 1989
WMS Annual Day
May 23, 1989
Trinity A.M.E. Church
27th and Cumberland Streets
Philadelphia, PA 19132
Church Telephone: (215) 229-1652
Pastor’s Telephone: (215) 276-1360
The Rev. E. W. Saunders, Host Pastor
The Rev. Harry J. White, Host P.E.

THE FIRST DISTRICT
PLANNING MEETING
June 8-9, 1989

Mt. Zion A.M.E. Church
Corner of New and Neilson Streets

New Brunswick, NJ 08901

Church Phone: (201) 749-8476
Pastor’s Telephone: (201) 545-3638
The Rey. H. A. Hildebrand, Host Pastor

The Rev. C. E. Martin, Host P.E.

wr

There Are Tears
Of The Heart

That Never
Reach The Eye

SECOND EPISCOPAL DISTRICT
A.M.E, CHURCH
ANNUAL CONFERENCE

ony

My

BISHOP H. H. BROOKINS

BALTIMORE
ANNUAL CONFERENCE
April 5-9, 1989
Payne Memorial Church
1716 Madison Avenue
Baltimore, MD 21217
Church Phone: (301) 669-8739
Pastor’s Phone: (301) 486-2260
The Rev. Howard L. Camper, Pastor

VIRGINIA
ANNUAL CONFERENCE
April 19-23, 1989
St. Paul Church
2500 Chestnut Avenue
Newport, News, VA 23607
Church Phone: (804) 245-6181
Pastor’s Phone: (804) 826-6221
The Rev. S. W. Williams, Jr., Pastor

NORTH CAROLINA
ANNUAL CONFERENCE
April 26-30, 1989
Willow Oak and Allen Chapel
P.O. Box 72
Rich Square, NC 27869
Church Phone: (919) 539-2931
Pastor’s Phone: (919) 539-4128
The Rev. C. K. Pridgen, Pastor

WESTERN NORTH CAROLINA
ANNUAL CONFERENCE
May 17-21, 1989
St. Paul Church
402 West Edenton Street
Raleigh, NC 27601
Church Phone: (919) 832-2709
Pastor’s Phone: (919) 834-8794
The Rev. G. L. Edmond, Pastor

WASHINGTON
ANNUAL CONFERENCE
May 24-28, 1989
Brown Memorial Church
130 14th Street N.E.
Washington, DC 20002.
Church Phone: (202) 543-0473
Pastor’s Phone: (301) 588-6042
The Rev. Edgar L. James, Pastor

SECOND EPISCOPAL DISTRICT
PLANNING CONFERENCE
June 2-3, 1989
Richmond, VA

SECOND EPISCOPAL DISTRICT
RETREAT
July 11-14, 1989
Norfolk State University

SIXTH EPISCOPAL DISTRICT
AME CHURCH
ANNUAL CONFERENCE

BISHOP JOHN HURST ADAMS

SOUTH GEORGIA
ANNUAL CONFERENCE
March 27-31, 1989
Grant Chapel A.M.E. Church
316 West Central Avenue
Moultrie, Georgia 31768
Church Telephone: (912) 985-2553
Pastor’s Telephone: (912) 985-2553
The Rey. J. A. Alexander, Host Pastor

SOUTHWEST GEORGIA
ANNUAL CONFERENCE
April 3-7, 1989
St. Paul A.M.E. Church
308 Rowe Street
Dublin, GA 31021
Pastor’s Telephone: (912) 745-9125
The Rev. J. E. Curry, Pastor

GEORGIA
ANNUAL CONFERENCE
April 17-21, 1989
St. Paul A.M.E, Church
1526 Wolf Street
Brunswick, Georgia 31520
Church Telephone; (912) 264-2734
Pastor’s Telephone: (912) 264-0897
The Rev. Richard Q. Ward, Pastor

AUGUSTA GEORGIA
ANNUAL CONFERENCE
May 1-5, 1989
St. Paul A.M.E. Church
306 Third Avenue
Vidalia, GA 30474
Church Telephone: (912) 537-4872
Pastor’s Telephone; (912) 537-0782
The Rev. C. O, Adams, Jr., Pastor

MACON GEORGIA
ANNUAL CONFERENCE
May 15-19, 1989
Steward Chapel A.M.E. Church
887 Forsyth Street
Macon, GA 31208
Church Telephone: (912) 742-4922
Pastor’s Telephone: (912) 745-2351
The Rev. David H. Jackson, Pastor

ATLANTA-NORTH GEORGIA
ANNUAL CONFERENCE
May 29 - June 2, 1989
St. Phillips A.M.E. Church
242 Candler Road
Atlanta, GA 30317
Church Telephone: (404) 371-0749
Pastor’s Telephone: (404) 349-5081
The Rev. George Moore, Sr., Pastor

POST CONFERENCE
PLANNING MEETING
June 15 - 17, 1989
Sixth Episcopal District
African Methodist Episcopal Church

SIXTEENTH EPISCOPAL DISTRICT
AME CHURCH
ANNUAL CONFERENCE

BISHOP V. R. BYRD

JAMAICA ANNUAL CONFERENCE
April 12-16, 1989
Chapel of Christ Redeemer Church
15 Swallowfield Road
Kingston, Jamaica, West Indies
Church Phone: 92-93824
The Rey. S. Lawrence, Host Pastor
The Rey. J. E. Micklejohn, Host P.E.

GUYANA-SURINAME
ANNUAL CONFERENCE
April 20-23, 1989
Bethel A.M.E. Church
Kaiser Straat 140
Paramaribo, Surinam
The Rey. Pearline E. Chaser, Host Pastor
The Rev. Dr. H. E. Hinds, Sr., Host P.E.

U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS
ANNUAL CONFERENCE
April 27-30, 1989
Bethel A.M.E. Church
12th & Queen Street
U.S. Virgin Islands, St. Croix
Church Phone: 1-809-773-6892
Pastor’s Phone: 1-809-778-9403
The Rev. V. H. A. Gordon, Host Pastor
The Rev. Louis C. Davis, Host P.E.

HAITI ANNUAL CONFERENCE
May 4-7, 1989
A.M.E. Church
Rue de Centre #320
Port-au-Prince, Haiti
The Rey. Saul Louis, Host Pastor

DOMINICAN REPUBLIC
ANNUAL CONFERENCE
May 11-14, 1989
Bethel A.M.E. Church
Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic
The Rev. J. Green, Host Pastor & P.E.

TRINIDAD—GRENADA—
BARBADOS
ANNUAL CONFERENCE
July 19-24, 1989
Nazareth A,.M.E. Church
Sunshine Avenue
San Juan, Trinidad
The Rey, Anderson Burkett, Host Pastor
The Rey. Dr. Fleming Joseph, Host P.E.

LONDON ENGLAND
ANNUAL CONFERENCE
August 17-20, 1989
Mt, Zion A.M.E. Church
Bay 624 Malton Road
North Kensington
London W. 10 6110
The Rev. B. K. Tweed, Host Pastor

*Date and Place to be announced

besides being one of the
greatest communication
packages ever
developed. . .

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can still be used to line garbage can or
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tomorrow a newer, more modern,
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The newspaper for the Connectional
Church

To subscribe, clip insert and mail to-
day:

AME Christian Recorder
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Nashville, TN 37203-4181


===== DSC05776.JPG =====

March 20, 1989

The AME Christian Recorder

Continued from page 4
The Spirit of Central Africa and The A.M.E. Church Today

Bishop John D. Bright

ence membership of one thousand five
hundred and forty-eight. Within this
conference Bishop John D. Bright
purchased a residence duridng the
period when Africans were forbidden
property ownership, notes our corre-
spondent Ms. Hildah Membe.

Before returning to the United
States with his wife and daughter

Kristen, Bishop Chappelle called for a
Christian Education Congress and
Planning Meeting for his Episcopal

Bishop P. R. Cousin

to be elevated

: Bishop John Hurst Adams. :
Senior Bishop General Board President

.

Bishop Vinton R. Anderson _
Publications Chairperson

He had faith and worked for a home boy

District.

We wish to note the participation of
Bishop Chappelle’s reporters Mrs.
Rosemary Kaiser, Episcopal President
WMS, Mrs. Suzanne Matale, Episco-
pal YPD Director; Mrs. Joyce
Mukupo, Episocpal Overseas Direc-
tor WMS; Mr. Phillip Nhekairo,
Episcopal President Lay Organiza-
tion; Mrs. Hildah Membe, Episcopal
District Secretary; Rev. Calleb
Ngoma; Rev. Clement N. Mkanazi;
and Rev. David K. Simfukwe.

The untimely passing of Brother
Philip Nhekairo in November, 1988,
is that of a faithful servant whose ill
health did not keep him from his last
valiant journey to the United States as
a delegate of the 43rd Session of the
General Conference. His volunteer
escort by automobile to Bishop Chap-
pelle and his personal service proved
invaluable. He leaves his devoted
wife, Mrs. Eleanor Nhekairo and

Presiding Bishop

Bishop C. E. Thomas

Bishop Richard Allen Chappelle

President, Council of Bishops

Bishop R. A. Hildebrand

Statistics and Finance Chairperson

Mrs. Barbara Chappelle
Supervisor W.M.S.

Bishop Robert Thomas
Classmate

Bishop John Bryant
Overseas Bishop

Bishop F. C. Cummings
Lay Organization Chairperson

family who will continue their work in
the Seventeenth Episcopal District.
“Soldier of Christ well done!

Praise be thy new employ; ) aa ee

And while eternal ages run . ANS

Rest in thy Saviour’s joy’’ = P

. .. Quote provided by Ms. Hildah he x

Membe ‘‘A Christian Soldier’s Fare- y r
Ei & See

Bishop Frank M. Reid III
Missions Chairperson

Bishop Howard Thomas Primm
Bishop Primm looked to the Father in
heaven and was guided to stick with Dr.
Chappelle when others doubted.

We are humble in the light of our
forerunners, for the inspiration they
shared, and their walk with Christ
which we would do well to emulate.
Therefore, we would not have deigned
to provide you with these mission ar-
ticle particulars unless we paid
homage and credit to one like Bishop
Henry McNeal Turner for paving the
Spirit paths whereon we walk today
and wherein Bishop Chappelle is
breaking new ground. Turner’s
prominent political career with the
Republican party in Georgia initiated
a host of ‘‘firsts’’ through his election
in 1880 as 12th Bishop of the A.M.E.
Church. He was in the vanguard of
those favoring colonization in Africa.

Join us in tribute to MISSIONS,
and the challenge that is before us.
Africa holds the key for tremendous

¥,

Dr. A. W. Holman

Salary Supplement Director

Bishop H. H. Brookins
Former Bishop 17th Episcopal District

Bishop Vernon R. Byrd

Christian Education Chairperson

Dr. Floyd Alexander, Sr.
Director of Pensions

Dr. J. C. McKinney
General Church Treasurer

growth for the A.M.E. Church.
Bishop Frank M. Reid, III is Chair-

Dr. Frederick C. Harrison
Director of Missions

A. Lee Henderson
Publisher

person for the Commission of MIS-
SIONS. Bishop Richard Allen Chap-
pelle is now walking in the footsteps
of other Overseas Missionaries. ‘‘We
must have a real sense of MISSIONS
and develop our Overseas Work,’’
Bishop Chappelle stated.

Today, we may yield to the wisdom
shared by Barbara Lyles, professor of
the Howard University School of
Education when she says, ‘‘We did
not ask to be Americans in the 1600’s.
Now that it is clear that we will not re-
turn en masse to Africa, we may as
well be called Americans.’’

Our mission is no longer debatable
as ‘‘Colonizers’’ for we are, at our
zenith, ‘‘Spiritualizers.’’

Exemplifying our spirit in ‘‘mis-
sions,’’ we chose to share the basic ex-
periences of Bishop Chappelle as a re-
minder and refresher of our sense of
dedication and purpose in Missions
and to all those who toil tirelessly for
its selfless spiritual call.

‘‘Preach the word; be instant in
season, out of season; reprove,
rebuke, exhort with all long-suffering
and doctrine.

“But watch thou in all things, endure

afflictions, do the work of an evange- _

list, make full proof of thy ministry.”
—Timothy IT 4:5

_—————————


===== DSC05777.JPG =====

lo

The AME Christian Recorder

March 20, 1989

Jackson Named General Counsel Consider a Call to the Chaplaincy
at Meharry Medical College

Richard E. Jackson

Nashville, TN—Dr. David Satcher,
president of Meharry Medical Col-
lege, has announced that Richard E.
Jackson, J.D., has been appointed
general counsel for the college and its
teaching hospital, Meharry/Hubbard
Hospital. Jackson had served as a

legal consultant to Meharry prior to
his appointment.

A graduate of Vanderbilt Univer-
sity, Nashville, Jackson earned his
juris doctorate from the University of
Cincinnati (Ohio) in 1975, He was a
partner in the law firm of Manson,
Jackson and Associates and an ad-
junct faculty member at the School of
Social Work of the University of Ten-
nessee, Tennessee State University and
Fisk University prior to joining the
Meharry administration,

Jackson, a Nashville native, is a
member of numerous committees and
boards, active in the Nashville Urban
League and the Tennessee Black
Leadership Roundtable, legal advisor
for the A.M.E. Church in Tennessee
and Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., in
Tennessee and Kentucky. He is a
member of the Tennessee and Napier-
Looby Bar Associations.

LILLY ENDOWMENT GIVES $25,000 TO
ITC FOR FACULTY DEVELOPMENT

The Interdenominational Theologi-
cal Center recently received a grant of
$25,000 from the Lilly Endowment,
Inc. for faculty development. The
grant will increase the capability of fa-
culty members through the use of
technology related to publication,
communication, teaching, and re-
search. It will allow for the indexing
of the Journal of the Interdenomina-
tional Theological (ITC), a semi-
annual publication of scholarly works
focusing on the Black religious experi-
ences. JITC is one of two journals na-
tionally that focuses on Black theo-
logical issues. By indexing the Journal,

faculty members can facilitate better
use of the materials for classroom in-
struction and scholarly exchange.

The grant will also enable ITC to
become a part of a computer network
designed specifically to disseminate
and exchange research of ITC faculty
as well as other scholars, pastors and
lay persons. Instruction in Black reli-
gious studies will also be provided to
students through this network called
BRSNET (Black Religious Studies
Network). Faculty will also be aided
in the preparation of manuscripts by
ITC faculty for publication.

ITC Announces Chairpersons/Distinguished
Alumni for Up Coming Charter Day

Co-chairpersons for the Charter
Day celebration of the Interdenomi-
national Theological Center are Mr.
William Allison and Mr. Paul Man-
ners.

Mr. Allison is vice president, The
Coca-Cola Company and Mr. Man-
ners is president of Paul Manners and
Associates. Both are members of the
ITC Associates, a group of communi-
ty leaders who lend their time, exper-
tise, and experience to the support of
the LEC.

Each year during the Charter Day
Banquet, a distinguished alumnus is
honored by each of the six constitu-
ents of the ITC. This year they are:

Gammon Theological Seminary
(United Methodist)—The Reverend
Lewis L. Jackson, District Superin-
tendent, Texas Annual Conference,
Houston, Texas.

Charles H. Mason Seminary
(Church of God in Christ)—The
Reverend Phyllis Byrd, Divisional
Director, Brooklyn Division,
World Council of Churches,
Brooklyn, New York.

Morehouse School of Religion
(Baptist)—Dr. William Thomas
Perkins, Associate Division Di-
rector, Black Church Extension
Division, Home Mission Board,
Atlanta, Georgia.

Phillips School of School of The-
ology (Christian Methodist
Episcopal)—The Reverend W. Na-
thaniel Owens, pastor, St. Paul
C.M.E. Church, Chicago, Illinois.

Johnson C. Smith Seminary (Pres-
byterian Church, USA)—Dr.
James Lovelace Allen, pastor,
Sargent Memorial Presbyterian
Church, Washington, DC.

Turner Theological Seminary (Af-
rican Methodist Episcopal)—Dr.
William D. Watley, pastor, St.
James A.M.E. Church, Newark,
New Jersey.

Other Charter Day activities include:

Wednesday—
March 15—3:30 p.m. and 6:00 p.m.
The Charles B. Copher Lecture
Series
Dr. Wayne Merritt, Lecturer

Thursday—
March 16—11:00 a.m.
Alumni Chapter Services

Tickets for the banquet are $35.00
per person and $350.00 per table of
ten for non-profit organizations,
churches, and schools. For corpora-
tions, tickets/tables are $50.00 and
$500.00 respectively.

For reservations or other informa-
tion, contact Dr. Billie J. Hooker or
Ms. Cassandra R. Baker at 527-7719.

Many Men
Line It Up
But They Must
Also Line It
Down

in the Armed Forces

Bishop F. H. Talbot

Our denomination is charged with
the responsibility of identifying and
endorsing pastors to serve with the
Armed Forces. This includes Active
Duty, Reserve and National Guard. It
is our desire that highly qualified and
competent pastors represent the Af-
rican Methodist Episcopal Church in
the chaplaincy.

Chaplaincy in the Armed Forces is a
very special ministry. It requires all
the talents, resources and stability of a
parish ministry as well as a know-how
and understanding of issues not al-
ways found in the local congregational
ministry. This is a way of saying,
Chaplains have to be top notch minis-
ters.

To cite just two possibilities: Chap-
lains’ are often in situations where
there are no immediate support sys-
tems available; they are literally on
their own. A strong spiritual founda-
tion is a sine qua non-indispensable.
Secondly, chaplains are called upon to
minister not only to personnel within
their units regardless of denomina-
tional differences but to provide
ministry to a truly pluralistic society.
Chaplains are called upon to facilitate
the free exercise of religion for their
forces and at the same time to main-
tain church affiliations and required
commitments.

As you can see, this is no easy task.
However, it is rewarding and exciting
and most important of all it fulfills
the demands placed upon us to be ser-
vants of Christ, preachers of the Gos-
pel, and ministers of our God.

At this moment of writing, we have
many opportunities for ministers who
recognize and could respond to this
very special ministry. If it happens

that some of you have a desire to re-
spond to this call, I would be most
happy to discuss the particulars with
you. You may use the address and
phone number below to reach me.

More particularly, there is presently
a critical shortage of women and mi-
nority Chaplains in the Active Army
as well as the Army Reserve and the
National Guard, There is also such a
need in the National Guard and Army
Reserve in the U.S., Virgin Islands
and Puerto Rico.

The general requirements for ser-
vice as chaplains in the Armed Forces
are as follows: (Specific requirements
are available for each service:)

1. Be a U.S. citizen. (The Army also
accepts those who have lawfully
entered the U.S. for permanent
residence).

2. Be less than forty years of age.
(For the Navy, less than thirty-six
for active duty and less than thirty-
eight for inactive duty.)

3. Complete a baccalaureate degree
of not less than one hundred and
twenty semester hours at an ac-
credited college or university.

4. Complete a Master of Divinity de-
gree or equivalent of ninety se-
mester hours at an accredited semi-
nary.

5. Be endorsed by an endorsing agen-
cy recognized by the Armed Forces
Chaplains Board.

6. Be physically qualified.

7. Be fully ordained/qualified clergy
of a religious faith group.

8. Be able to receive a favorable Na-
tional Agency check.

Please contact me if you have ques-
tions regarding the chaplaincy as a
ministry.

Frederick Hilborn Talbot,

Bishop & Ecumenical Officer

P.O. Box 684

Frederiksted, St. Croix, V.I. 00841-0684
Telephone: 809-772-0723 (Home)
809-772-4329 (Office)

Daily Bread Program Names

Rev. James T. Blount, New Director

Reverend James T. Blount
Director, Daily Bread Program
Christian Service Center
for Central Florida, Inc.

The Christian Service Center for
Central Florida, Inc., has named Rev-
erend James T. Blount as Director of
the Daily Bread Program. He suc-
ceeds Charles G. ‘‘Parky’’ Parkhouse
who retired last January after direc-
ting the program for fifteen years.

Reverend Blount will oversee all

operations and administration of the
Daily Bread Program which feeds a
hot noon meal to approximately three
hundred homeless individuals each
day. Meals are provided by Host In-
ternational, the food and beverage
concession at the Orlando Internation-
al Airport. Blount will also be respon-
sible for maintaining the association
with Host as well as coordinating the
more than two hundred area churches
who volunteer to serve each after-
noon.

In addition to his duties as Director
of the Daily Bread Program, Rever-
end Blount is presently pastoring Atlas
African Methodist Episcopal Church
in Gainesville, FL. He is a graduate of
International Seminary.

KEEP PRAYING
GOD LISTENS MORE

THAN
MOST MEN

SSS

Date

1989-3-20

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The Christian Recorder

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