Elder’s Message
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Schedule
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Leadership Expecations and Pastor’s Covenant
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Quarterly Conference Schedule
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District Calendar
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District Organization
10
Pastor’s Reports
14
Lay Council Report
15
Christian Education Department Report
16
Women’s Home and Overseas Missionary Society Report
17
Evangelism Report
17
Home Missions Report
18 State of the Church 19
State of the Country
20
Necrology Report
21
The District in Pictures
B A L T I M O R E
D I S T R I C T
A M E
C H U R C H
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Z I O N
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W W W . B E M O R E A M E Z . O R G
CONTENT
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DISTRICT CHURCHES Beth Shalom The Bridge Charity Clinton Congregational Damascus Emmanuel First Agape Freedom Temple Judah Temple Mt. Sinai New Life North Brentwood Oak Grove Patterson Asbury Pennsylvania Avenue S. G. Spottswood St. John Scotland
HAPPY NEW YEAR BALTIMORE DISTRICT
C H U R C H · W W W . B E M O R E A M E Z . O R G
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Z I O N
Jabez’s name means pain; and so, as we enlarge our territories this will not be without some pain (struggles or difficulties). God will not enlarge our territories unless he can trust us to give him the best where we are… our loyalties cannot be divided, our integrity and character cannot be questionable and complacency and spur of the moment ministry must not become the order of the day. But we and our ministries must be honorable as Jabez was. As the Presiding Elder of the Baltimore District, I decree and declare it to be so… in Jesus name. Amen.
A M E
Just as God heard Jabez’s prayer and granted his request, I too have been asking God to enlarge our territory. But I know now, this is not the task of the district, but every local church must expand its territory. To do this, every church must be organized, every church must minister in and with excellence, every church must be fiscally strong by developing a proper budget, having a calendar and programming that supports its endeavors AND ministers to the needs of others. Every church must clearly identify its mission and vision. Every church must know its purpose and live it out in the community beyond its walls. Every church must model the character and nature of Christ, and lift high the KINGDOM OF GOD, under the umbrella of the AME Zion Church. Every church must preach, teach, and proclaim Jesus, and Jesus alone!
D I S T R I C T
While we can testify of our blessings, we must be deliberate in our attention to areas of our lives and ministries where God is continuing to expand our vision, grow and develop us as men and women of faith; all the while, exploring new avenues for transformational and impactful Christian service to others. Can’t you see new avenues for social justice and care for our environment, new paths for understanding how we exclude those who want, need and desire the gospel, fresh perspectives for reaching Millennials, and innovative ways for making the church once again the place where people’s lives are centered in our communities. We must dare to risk coming down from our pinnacles of tradition and rituals to meet people where they are… Perhaps in the voices the church has silenced, ignored and excluded God is waiting to SPEAK and enlarge our territories indeed!
B A L T I M O R E
If you and I were to look back over this last decade at all that God has done for us, or even still a glance at yesterday; our testimony is certainly that the Lord has blessed us indeed! His ‘grace has been sufficient’ for us in every circumstance. We have made it these last eight (8) months the benefactors of God’s unmerited favor (GRACE), but this is no time to casually stroll to the finish line. There is still much work for us to do, places we have yet to conquer, people who still need the gospel, ministries waiting to be birthed, hearts that cry for mending, dreams yet to be realized and, purpose and destiny awaiting our pursuit.
SCHEDULE BALTIMORE DISTRICT MID-YEAR PLANNING MEETING 2020 DISTRICT CONFERENCE BUSINESS SESSION Rev. Dr. Frances “Toni” Draper, Host Pastor
W W W . B E M O R E A M E Z . O R G
9:00
Registration and Continental Breakfast
9:15
Praise and Worship – Freedom Temple Scripture – Rev. Ronnie Stewart Prayer – Rev. Dr. Pearl J. Selby
C H U R C H
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9:30 Roll Call – Sis. Katherine Burrell/ Designee Rules Committee – Rev. David Deverteuil Credentials Report – Dr. Wilmer Frazier 10:00 Greetings and Purpose – PE Huggins Presiding Elder’s Address on the Theme Overview of the Year – Moderated by Alyce Walker Johnson Input and Discussion 10:45
A M E
11:00
D I S T R I C T
Admissions Report – Dr. Darrell Gaskin Examiners Report – Rev. Nicole Batey Masterlife – Rev. Jeanette Banks
Departmental Video Reports (5-7 mins. each) Exhorters and Local Preacher’s Reports Conference Evangelist Reports Treasurer’s Report
B A L T I M O R E
Z I O N
BUSINESS SESSION I
Coming Events
12:00
BUSINESS SESSION II
International Ministers and Lay – Mrs. Katherine Burrell, Honoree Barbados Annual Conference & Concert – Designee Caribbean Sunday – Clusters District Conference March 28th & 29th Service Project /
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Necrology Report Passing of Characters
Adjournment (Lunch on Your Own)
1:00
LEADERSHIP EXPECTATIONS & COVENANT Baltimore District 2020-2021 LEADERSHIP EXPECTATIONS AND PASTOR’S COVENANT
B A L T I M O R E
The Office of the Presiding Elder serves as an extension of the Office of the Bishop. The Presiding Elder is to act, give direction and provide spiritual support to the District and its Pastors under the direction and authority of the Bishop, always lifting the tenants of Methodism in doctrine, polity, and administration; therefore, it is my sincere desire to covenant with you to:
D I S T R I C T
Support the work of the ministry in your local church by providing support, encouragement, prayer and resources to the Pastors, ministers and lay people in your congregation when asked to do so, or the need arises. Work together to strengthen and grow the Baltimore District by giving of our time, talents and treasure. Together we covenant to encourage all ministers, district officers, local church officers and members to do the same whenever and wherever the District convenes.
A M E Z I O N
Respect your gifting to Pastor God’s people; and in turn, affirm your respect for the leadership of the Bishop, the Presiding Elder, your colleagues and the laity of our Beloved Zion. We both covenant to refrain from negativity, small vision, or any behavior that seeks to diminish rather than build the Kingdom of God on the Baltimore District.
C H U R C H
Be on time and to ensure good stewardship of time throughout the district; and it is my desire that you would covenant to be at the appointed place(s) at the appointed time(s) as directed by the Presiding Elder and the District calendar to prosper and grow the district. And, each local church is to give priority to both Conference and District dates.
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Receive with gratitude all financial obligations in the manner and time specified by the Presiding Elder, in the exact amount as noted by the Presiding Elder and the Financial Secretary of the District. These include both Conference and District askings. Promote the Connectional and Annual Conference Theme, “The Freedom Church: Refocusing on our Purpose, Reviewing Our Practices, and now Retooling Our People, (Reaching our Potential 2020)” as directed by our Episcopal Leadership. Attend and provide instruction at all Quarterly Conferences promoting the polity and administration of our church; and, you in turn shall submit in a timely manner with thoroughness and completeness all Quarterly Conference forms, on those legal forms accepted by our General Church. And, you shall properly house and secure the same. We both shall covenant to serve with passion, integrity, character and a sincere desire to “Make Disciples of the Lord Jesus Christ” to promote healthy church growth and expansion. _____________________________________ Pastor Date
___________________________________ Presiding Elder Date 5
QUARTERLY CONFERENCE SCHEDULE Evaluation - unless otherwise specified all Pastoral evaluations will be held at the church during the time(s) specified. Please note there will be no modifications to the schedule. Please ensure that all reports have been emailed prior to January 17th for the 3rd Quarter.
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NOTE: You should prepare your 4th Quarters reports as well as provide a Year-End-Summary for the following reports: Trustees, Stewards, MOK, Class Leaders, CED, Lay Council and WHOMS. Each department head is to summarize the work of your ministry. Please ensure that all reports have been entered into the electronic quarterly conference system (when and where possible). CHURCH
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Beth Shalom The Bridge Charity** (Congregation) Clinton Congregational Damascus Emmanuel First Agape Freedom Temple Judah Temple Mt. Sinai New Life** (Congregation) North Brentwood Oak Grove Patterson Asbury Pennsylvania Ave Scotland S.G. Spottswood (Congregation) St. John
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3rd QUARTER EVALUATIONS ALL Reports Due by Jan. 17th
4TH QUARTERLY CONF. YEAR END REPORTING Reports due by April 13th
Jan. 14th @ 7 pm – Evaluation Jan. 18th @ 1230 pm – St. John Jan. 18th @ 1230 pm – St. John Jan. 25th @ 3 pm – Penn Ave Jan 24th @ 12 pm - Evaluation Jan. 18th @ 1230 pm – St. John Jan. 18th @ 1230 pm – St. John Jan. 18th @ 1230 pm – St. John Jan. 18th @ 1230 pm – St. John Jan 25th @ 1030 am – Evaluation Jan. 23rd @ 9 am – Forestville IHOP Jan. 18th @ 1230 pm – St. John Jan. 20th @ 7 pm – Church Jan. 20th @ 830 pm – Evaluation Jan. 23rd @ 6 pm – Forestville IHOP Jan. 23rd @ 730 pm – Forestville IHOP Jan. 25th @ 1 pm – Church Quarter(s) 215 – Pastor’s Evaluation Jan. 25th @ 12 pm - Church Jan. 12th @ 1 pm – Dr. Durant Jan. 13th @ 12 pm – Clinton IHOP
Apr. 25th @ 1230 pm Apr. 4th @ 1 pm - BJ’s Restaurant - Laurel Apr. 4th @ 1 pm - BJ’s Restaurant – Laurel Apr. 20th @ 7 pm – Penn Ave May 2nd @ 10 am Apr. 4th @ 1 pm - BJ’s Restaurant - Laurel Apr. 4th @ 1 pm - BJ’s Restaurant - Laurel Apr. 4th @ 1 pm - BJ’s Restaurant - Laurel Apr. 4th @ 1 pm - BJ’s Restaurant - Laurel Apr. 18th @ 9 am Apr. 27th @ 7 pm Apr. 4th @ 1 pm - BJ’s Restaurant - Laurel Apr. 4th @ 1 pm - BJ’s Restaurant – Laurel Apr. 25th @ 11 am Apr. 25th @ 8 am May 2nd @ 12 pm Apr. 18th @ 130 pm
Jan. 18th @ 9 am – Church
Apr. 20th @ 6 pm Apr. 26th @ 1 pm Apr. 4th @ 1 pm - BJ’s Restaurant – Laurel Apr. 25th @ 930 am Apr. 25th @ 2 pm
january - may 2020 calendar District District Conference Call Information (515) 604-9099 Access 775-576-625 Email: PEHuggins@bemoreamez.org Website: www.beMOREamez.org Video Conferencing: Zoom.us
B A L T I M O R E
Focus: “A Kingdom Focused District” Theme: The Freedom Church: Refocusing on Our Purpose, Reviewing Our Practices, Retooling Our People, and Reaching Our Potential. “Enlarging Our Territories Through Ministry, Membership and Meaningful Messages”
January 9, 2020 January 11, 2020
Spiritual Emphasis Week – “Lead Like Wesley” @ 6 a.m. daily (425) 436-6200 Access Code 466322 District-in-Study (cancelled due to Spiritual Emphasis Week)
1st WHOMS Missionary Mass Mtg 10 a.m. (St. John AMEZ)
January 30-1, 2020
Small Church Group Quarter @ 1230 p.m. (St. John) Alpha Phi Alpha MLK, Jr. Breakfast @ 645 a.m. Bethesda Marriott North MAED Presiding Elder’s Retreat, BWI Marriott, Nursery Rd
C H U R C H
January 18, 2020
Z I O N
January 18, 2020
A M E
January 13, 2020
Baltimore District Mid-Year Planning Mtg @ 9 a.m. Freedom Temple – Dr. Frances Draper, Host Pastor Pastor’s Evaluations Commence
D I S T R I C T
January 6-11, 2020
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February 15, 2020
Administrative & Executive Board Meeting @ 10 a.m. S.G. Spottswood 419 Hill Road, Landover, MD BET GALA - Cancelled 2020 International Ministers and Lay / 2020 Board of Bishops Birmingham, AL Baltimore District Studies Class (ZOOM Platform)
February 20, 2020
District-in-Study (cancelled due to Spiritual Emphasis Week)
February 26, 2020
Ash Wednesday
February 29, 2020
Lay Convocation Cancelled – SAVE THE DATE: May 2, 2020 from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
March 1, 2020 March 2, 2020
CLUSTERS: Caribbean Sunday Administrative & Executive Board Meeting @ 630 p.m. Judah Temple (Mt. Oak Road, Mitchellville) 38TH Session of the Barbados Annual Conference
FEB RUARY
February 8, 2020 February 11-14, 2020
MARCH
March 5-8, 2020 March 9, 2020
CHECKUP MONIES DUE TO JENNIFER (mail to: PO Box 637, Laurel, MD 20725) th
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February 8, 2020
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JANUARY - MAY 2020 CALENDAR March 1, 2020 March 2, 2020 March 5-8, 2020
MARCH
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March 9, 2020 March 12-15, 2020
CHECKUP MONIES DUE TO JENNIFER (mail to: PO Box 637, Laurel, MD 20725) 105th Annual Session of the Guyana-Suriname Conference
March 14, 2020
Baltimore District Studies Class – FINAL CLASS (Freedom Temple)
March 19-21, 2020 March 21, 2020
Connectional Lay Convocation (Fayetteville, NC)
March 28, 2020
Baltimore District Conference Community Service Projects Location TBD Baltimore District Conference 4:30 p.m. Children’s Program and Concert (Judah Temple)
B A L T I M O R E
MAY
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March 29, 2020
3rd Checkup Meeting 10 a.m. (Judah Temple)
April 4, 2020
Small Church Qtrly Fellowship (BJ’s Brewhouse, Laurel, MD) 1 p.m.
April 5, 2020
PALM SUNDAY
April 9-11, 2020
CLUSTERS: Lenten Services
April 12, 2020
RESURRECTION SUNDAY
April 18, 2020
2nd WHOMS Missionary Mass Mtg 10 a.m. (Freedom Temple)
April 18, 2020
CED Youth 3-on-3 Basketball @ 1 p.m. (LTBD)
April 26, 2020
CED Young Adult All White Fellowship
May 2, 2020
Lay Council & Home Missions Bowl-A-Thon 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Fort Meade Bowling – information forthcoming
May 4, 2020
CHECKUP AND ANNUAL CONFERENCE MONIES DUE (mail to: PO Box 637, Laurel, MD 20725) 173rd Session of the Allegheny Conference 191st Session of the Philadelphia and Baltimore Conference Bethesda Marriott North Baltimore District Planning Mtg. 930 a.m. (Clinton)
May 13-17, 2020 May 19-24, 2020 May 30, 2020
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CLUSTERS: Caribbean Sunday Administrative & Executive Board Meeting @ 630 p.m. Judah Temple (Mt. Oak Road, Mitchellville) 38TH Session of the Barbados Annual Conference
ORGANIZATION Jan.- May 2020 Boards and Committees Bold print is the chair(s) of the committee
B A L T I M O R E
Presiding Elder’s Stewards: Rev. Leslie Barnett Davis and Rev. Scot C. Moore Principal Pastor: Rev. Milton A. Williams, Sr. Administrative Assistant: Rev. Alanna Thomas District Secretary: Mrs. Katherine Burrell Treasurer: Ms. Jennifer Ruffin Chief of Protocol: Rev. Moses Stevens and Rev. Samuel Whittaker
D I S T R I C T
ACTIVE COMMITTEES
A M E
Budget/ Finance Committee: Rev. Dr. “Toni” Draper Christian Education Board: Presiding Elder/ Mrs. Sarah Pinkney Murkey District Studies: Rev. Nicole Batey Economic Development/ Outsourcing Team: Rev. Joshua P. Logan Evangelism: Rev. Beverly Jones / Rev. Jeanette Banks Grants: Presiding Elder / Mrs. Brenda Jennings Home Missions and Church Extension: Mr. Moses Stevens / Mrs. Pauline Yarborough Lay Council: Mrs. Lisa Devertueil Men’s Ministry: Rev. Anthony Bellamy Voter Registration: Mrs. Francine Jefferson and Mr. Chuck Williams Music: Mr. Matthew Whittaker, Mr. Dominik Devertueil, Mr. Ramon Shelton WH&OMS: Mrs. Sharon Hassan Women’s Ministry: Rev. Alyce Walker Johnson
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DISTRICT CONFERENCE COMMITTEES Admissions: Rev. Dr. Darrell Gaskin, Rev. Crystal Lowe, Rev. Nicole Batey, Rev. Sam Whittaker Credentials: Rev. Dr. Wilmer Frazier , Rev. Dr. Sophonia Thurston, Rev. Kristina Hall Necrology: Rev. Carolyn McGee Praise Team: Rev. Nicole Batey, Mr. Matthew Whittaker, Mr. Javaul Mack, Christina Whittaker, local church representative Rules Committee: Rev. David Devertueil, Rev. Dr. Kenel Stevenson, Mr. Eric Smith, Rev. Clyde Witherspoon, Rev. Erika Butler. State of the Church: Rev. Ranesa Mayo , Rev. Faith Savoy, Rev. Crystal Harris, Rev. Dr. Edgar S. Bankhead, State of the Country: Rev. Dr. Darrell Gaskin, Rev. Quantanna Brown, Rev. Denaise Robinson Statistician: Mrs. Katherine Burrell 9
PASTOR REPORTS Beth-Shalom
Charity
Clinton
Our most impactful activity at Beth Shalom this past conference year is our ongoing free food giveaway every first Saturday, along with fresh produce. We are developing a dynamic and energizing fellowship with the 40-50 families being served, some who have attended Sunday worship services.
The CED hosted an 8-week Family Night Bible Study themed ‘Temptation Tuesday” based on James 1:12. They invited ministers from different denominations to give their own presentations on ‘Temptation”. This was a phenomenal journey and offered the congregation an opportunity to fellowship and hear the impact of temptation in our lives. We also built relationships within the AME Zion family as well as across other denominations. But most importantly we received two new members throughout those weeks.
To God be the glory for the things that He has done! Clinton A.M.E. Zion Church is becoming a spiritually, numerically and financial healthy, inter-generational church! While many wonderful things happened this conference year, there are 4 that really warrant a spotlight: 1. Intentional Evangelism –The results have been amazing—13 souls saved, 3 new members and a growing outreach partnership with the David Scull Community. 2. Expanded Vacation Bible School – Doubled our 2017 VBS attendance with more than 130 from Clinton and the adjacent neighborhoods 3. Consecration of Deaconess – After one year of study and spiritual preparation, Clinton welcomed 3 deaconesses who were consecrated at the Baltimore District Deaconess Consecration Service. 4. Sunday School—The Remix! After a much-needed hiatus, Clinton relaunched Sunday School and we are excited about the reception, engagement and excitement surrounding our new model.
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REV. DARYL J. GASKINS
D I S T R I C T
A M E
Beth Shalom has partnered with Southern Maryland Hospital Center sponsoring a 16-week workshop “Prevent T2”, a proven program to prevent or delay Type 2 diabetes. It is attended by both members and people from the surrounding communities. One person is already collaborating to have her church sponsor a workshop.
B A L T I M O R E
The Bridge
REV. Alanna Thomas
REV. faith l. savoy
The Lay Ministry hosted a Friends and Family Brunch filled with food, fellowship and the word of God. The church received a multitude of intergenerational attendees across the denominations. Most importantly, Charity gained four new members. The Missionary/Evangelism Ministry hosted a Thanksgiving Community Outreach. We fed over 50 people and supplied them with hats, gloves, scarves, children’s Christmas toys and most importantly prayer. Four young men gave their lives to Christ that day. We have been in communication and prayer with and for them.
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REV. ALYCE WALKER JOHNSON
PASTOR REPORTS Congregational REV. LORENZO LYONS
First Agape
REV. Edgar bankhead
Freedom Temple REV. dr. frances “toni” draper
B A L T I M O R E Z I O N C H U R C H · W W W . B E M O R E A M E Z . O R G
REV. RAYMOND BUTLER
The theme of this award is: With God, it pays to make the right choices; based on Daniel 1:17, 20b; 2:48-49; wherein “As for there four children, God gave them knowledge and skill in all learning and wisdom… and the king found them ten times better… and made Daniel ruler over the whole province of Babylon, (mindful that Daniel was a slave in Babylonian captivity).
Freedom Temple in partnership with River Valley Ranch (Carroll County, Maryland) hosted a summer day camp, August 12-16. With sponsorship from Sagamore Development, campers paid either $20 or received a scholarship to attend the weeklong camp, that included free breakfast and lunch daily. Over 35 children participated in indoor and outdoor activities, devotional rallies and daily Bible Study. Freedom Temple members, as well as RVR counselors, assisted with the camp.
A M E
Damascus
The most significant ministry at First Agape this conference years is Children’s Church Academic Cash Awards Ministry; wherein a cash award of four dollars for each A earned and three dollars for each B earned; to receive their award, each awardee must calculate the total sum of their award; with highest award of seven A’s for seven courses ($28.00); going to London Johns; a seven-year-old second grader.
D I S T R I C T
We did several Home Visits and Communion Services for the Sick and Shut In. Had 2 Water Outreaches. Celebration of 14 yrs. Pastoring at CMEC. Provided meals for several families for Thanksgiving. Performed 1 Wedding Ceremony, and 2 baby Baptisms and Christmas Fellowship Service. Fellowshipped with Judah Temple for Watch Night Service.
Judah Temple REV. Scot c. Moore
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PASTOR REPORTS Mount Sinai
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REV. clyde witherspoon
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Under the church theme “Fellowship Within and Out of our Church Walls” We purchased Sunday School books for Elder Williams; we donated to Brice Entertainment personal hygiene products in Baltimore and Fairfax, Virginia. We sponsored two young girls this Christmas for the Angel Tree. We were invited to Manor Care facility where we sang Christmas Carols. We continued our community outreach program via SHARE. We have continued to support missionary ministries led by Mildred Wilson.
B A L T I M O R E
Oak Grove
REV. joshua p. logan
New Life
REV. David deverteuil
We celebrated our 1 year church anniversary on Sunday July 7. We had a power-packed worship service!! God enabled our church to reach deeper in Love and Higher in Praise, as we celebrated HIM and showed our gratitude for all that HE has done. The morning worship speaker was Presiding Elder Evalina Huggins, who taught from John 3:16 - God’s unconditional love for HIS church. Many were inspired, encouraged and determined to fulfill the Great Commission. The Anniversary celebration concluded at 4 pm with a soloist, guest choir, liturgical dance and the dynamic preached word from Bishop W. Darin Moore. The sermon topic was “There’s Glory in this House”, coming from Luke 9. Many were in attendance including community pastors. The presence of God filled the “House”. Our Pre-Thanksgiving service prompted us to consider “What it means to be Thankful.” Realizing we have so much to be thankful for, we had a GREAT time in the Lord. The congregation was uplifted in song, preached word and fellowship. Next year we desire to have invited guest to share in this season of Thanksgiving.
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North Brentwood REV. samuel whittaker
North Brentwood is a congregation that has doubled in membership in less than 18 months. The Congregation has shown a love for the homeless and our surrounding community. The median age has dropped from 79 to 47 with the attendance of new membership.
St. John
REV. wilmer t. frazier
This conference year, we had Vacation Bible School that was well attended. In addition we also had the following programs: Men’s Day, Women’s Day, Friends and Family Day, Revival as well as our own Severn Singer’s 32nd Anniversary Program.
PASTOR REPORTS Patterson Asbury
REV. leslie barnett-davis
Scotland
REV. dr. evalina huggins
S.G. Spottswood REV. ranesa mayo
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Z I O N
REV. milton williams, jr.
The ministry highlight for the year would be the start of Children’s Church under the leadership of Sis. Linda Jackson. The children meet 2nd & 4th Sundays and look forward to the prepared lessons, arts & crafts and activities within the ministry. Our youth also had their first Youth Explosion where the weekend was filled with exciting and spirit-filled youth events. The church was packed that Friday for their Night of Dance worship service. Liturgical dance groups from the community and from the Baltimore District came to minister and fellowship with us. The youth had an engaging workshop on that Saturday with study and discussion. Then on Sunday, they led us in our worship service and Bro. Romel Coker, from James Varick AME Zion Church in Philadelphia, PA, closed us out with a mighty Word. It was truly a memorable moment within the life of church.
A M E
Pennsylvania Ave
On July 9, 2019, the 115-year-old historic Scotland AME Zion Church was ravaged by a flash flood that hit the DMV area. As a result, one of the weight bearing walls collapsed, subsequently damaging the remaining walls, compromising the integrity of the building and making it uninhabitable. Approximately, 3 months later Bishop W. Darin Moore, appointed a new Pastor, the Rev. Dr. Evalina Huggins, to unite the congregation and begin the rebuilding of the church. The most significant thing during this conference year has not been the flood nor the destruction of the church edifice, but rather a coming together of the membership in such a way that she has a renewed resolve to both rebuild their spiritual temples as well as their church home. The church worships in a dance studio in Gaithersburg, but has organized the Trustees, Stewards, Class Leaders, Deaconess and Youth Ministry. Although, displaced the church has received new members and is preparing for a major Capital Funding Campaign to address the tens of thousands of dollars need to rebuild. But, “we have a mind to work”, and with God being our helper we look forward to construction beginning in the Spring of 2020.
D I S T R I C T
The theme for this year has been DISCIPLES MAKING DISCIPLES. A group of 24 members answered the call to participate in MasterLife Discipleship Training under Rev. Jeannette Bank of Judah Temple. So far 5 members have completed the training and are now training the next 17 members. The purpose of MasterLife is to ensure that we follow the Matthew 28 mandate to “be disciples who make disciples” which changes lives to reflect the life of Christ. The spiritual change in members participating in MasterLife has been life altering.
lay council
W W W . B E M O R E A M E Z . O R G
The Lay Council kicked off this conference year by holding an executive board meeting at the Freedom Temple A.M.E. Zion church in June. The board along with Presiding Elder Huggins discussed the expectations for the Lay council, defined roles and planned the activities for the year.
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In July we attended the Lay Council Leadership Retreat held by the Philadelphia and Baltimore Conference at the Bon Secours Retreat & Conference Center. It was a time to reflect, regroup, recharge and prepare for the 2019-2020 conference year. We had representation from most of the churches on the Baltimore district. A special recognition goes out to St. John AME Zion Church for having the most participants. Presiding Elder Huggins did an excellent presentation on the Article of Religion, reminding us of who we are as Zion and Reverend Adrian Nelson charged us to remember who are as the laity and to take our voice back.
In October, churches across the district participated in Connectional Lay Sunday. This being a time when the laity is given special privilege to develop connectional interest and unify us as a connectional church. I want to thank the Pastors for their support and encouraging the efforts of the Lay Ministry and for allowing a day to celebrate with laity participation during the worship service. In November the Lay council sponsored “A Day at the Movies” where we secured two movie theaters, one in Baltimore and the other in Largo, MD to see the movie 14
“Harriet”. It was a day of fun and fellowship as churches on the district came together to watch a movie about a distinguished member of the A.M.E. Zion Church that made a big impact to American history. We were joined at the Largo location by our Washington District family from John Wesley A.M.E. Zion Church, Pastor Karen Brau and members of the Luther Place Memorial Church. We had a wonderful time of coming together forming new relationships and sharing the love of Christ. The Lay council is committed to increasing our membership this conference year and making sure that each church on the district is represented. We are looking forward to our upcoming Lay convocation to be held in February 2020. Respectfully submitted, Alisa DeVerteuil
CHRISTIAN EDUCATION DEPARTMENT
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Ms. Deborah Stallings Co-Director of Adults Mr. Eric Smith Co-Director of Adults Mr. D’eoleous Parker Advisor Young Adults Rev. Faith Savoy Co-Director of Young Adults
A M E
Ms. Ashley Perry Co-Director of Youth
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Mrs. Sarah Pinkney-Murkey, Director of Christian Education
D I S T R I C T
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Rev. Shawnta Privette Co-Director of Youth
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Mrs. Unique Faulkner Co-Director of Children Ms. Ellen Ike Co-Director of Children
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Rev. Anita Stevenson Co-Director of Sunday School and Vacation Bible School
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Outing at Sky Zone-August 23, 2019, the Children’s department sponsored an outing at Sky Zone. One goal was to fellowship and foster relationship with the children from all churches in the Baltimore District. Youth Luncheon-August 10, 2019- The luncheon Theme, “Under Construction”, provided support for the youth to develop the foundation for their continued growth. Train the Trainer- September 7, 2019- District and Local CED Directors was based on a quote from Bishop W. Darin Moore “Leaders are Learners.” A major goal was to be better positioned to live, teach, and be helpful to others. Christian Education Convocation – November16, 2019- The Theme was Healthy Living. 120 people registered and 14 churches were represented at the Convocation. The goal was to gain insights on ways to improve our health/wellness-Mind, Body, and Spirit. This was done by providing Praise and Worship, Evangelism, Community Outreach and a Panel discussion. Convocation featured presentations on Dementia, Diabetes, Mental Health, and Community Based Disparities. • Breakout sessions by departments • Children’s Department- Healthy Living for our children: “You are what you eat.” • Youth Department- Healthy Living through financial planning and budgeting • Young Adults- Inspirational dialogue is one of the means of fostering the development of Credible Committed Christian disciples • Adults-The Mentality of OvereatingScripture Exodus16:13-20 • Healthy Movement- If you move well, you also think, feel and live well • Community Outreach- Giving, contributing, and helping those who cannot always help themselves. Outreach activities improve Health Outcomes. Bags of food, including fresh vegetables were distributed at the end of the Convocation. • Pastors and Ministers Session
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The Baltimore District Christian Education Department has worked hard this Conference year towards the attainment of the mission of the Christian Education Department of the African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church. A variety of programs and activities were utilized to unify and promote Christian training that fostered the development of credible, committed Christian disciples.
Rev. Carolyn McGee Co-Director of Sunday School and Vacation Bible School Rev. Jeanette Banks Chaplain Mission: To unify, promote and supervise Christian training that fosters the development of credible. Committed Christian disciples (followers)
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women’s home & overseas missionary society
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July 13-19 in Orlando Florida the 29th Quadrennial Convention was held. Yes we were “Shining at the Shingle – having a ball - Giving God our all and all!” Several members of the Baltimore District were delegates and served on various committees. Emma Smith served as part of the secretariat team and Sharon Hassan served on the Rules and Credentials Committees. Emma was named Super Superintendent of BUDS for the Mid-Atlantic Episcopal District. For most of us it was our first Quadrennial. We left Florida educated and excited to serve.
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FACEBOOK Our page is a popular source for information in and outside of the District. We provide information on job opportunities, social issues, health bulletins from HC2020, choosing a college, paying for college, repaying your student loans, and of course scholarship opportunities. We use FB to educate the District on current topics such as the Real ID Process.
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Social Justice WH&OM Society Baltimore District has been involved in voter registration for five years now. This year we are partnering with the WHOMS International to promote Purple @The Polls to engage in issues, rally voter participation, provide rides, and volunteer in other capacities to increase voter participation in the 2020 elections. Voter Registration Train the Trainer training was held at Freedom Temple. 8 people were certified to train others to register folks to vote. We have registered voters monthly at Pennsylvania Ave AME Zion Church as part of its monthly community outreach and had a voter registration table at the CED Convocation. Attended Fearfully and Wonderfully Made Women’s Conference representing Araminta an organization we support. Each Mass Meeting focuses on some aspect of social justice. Outreach We participate in, host, and support a variety of community /civic outreach efforts. Here is a list of some of them. Wreaths across America – laying wreaths at military cemeteries; Donated 15 boxes to Operation Christmas Child’s Samaritan’s Purse; Provided beds and supplies to the Geraldine Young Family Life Center; Verizon Hotline phone drive for Domestic Violence; FedsFeed Families Campaign; Red Dress/Heart Health; Donated 200 pairs of socks to LTI re-entry project; 16
donated handbags filled with toiletries to Handbags & Hope Outreach for women in half way homes; Socks for the Soul District Project; food and clothing distributions; feeding the community; and donated 50 purses to “Purses for Hope” outreach program which will be distributed to women’s shelters in Montgomery and Baltimore Counties. Our Youth will collect winter coats for a middle school in PG County and one in Baltimore City. Health Taught breathing and exercise techniques at Mass Meetings. Emphasized the impotence of vaccinations, immunization, drinking water, and provided information on Breast Cancer, Colon, and Prostate Cancers. Other Held stoling ceremony at October Mass Meeting. Celebrated/supported Florence Randolph Day, YAMS Founder’s Day, Rev. Dr. Rita J. Colbert, World Hunger, Anna L. Anderson, Margaret S. Willie, Emma C. Clement, World Hunger, YAMS HIV Project, Second Mile/AGAPE, Victoria Richardson, Marie L. Clinton, and purchased MyBuddy Magazines. In May 2020 we will celebrate our WHOMS Anniversary.
Thank you to our awesome Executive Team: Sharon Hassan, Emma Smith, Kimberr Eubanks, Rev. Erika Butler, Rev. Deborah Johnson-Mosley, Marsha Clark, Francine Jefferson, Donna Richardson, Altamese Williams, Juanita Frazier, Jacqueline Mack, Joann West, Sonya Henson, Diana Plunkett, Florence Miller and our Advisor Rev. Alyce Walker Johnson
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I am thankful for the experience of co-leading Home Missions. However, I humbly request to resign from this position after the close of this conference year. I would still like to be a supportive member of the Home Missions Team, but because of other responsibilities, I am unable to fully commit to being co-leader at this time.
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Respectfully Submitted, Rev. Beverly Jones Rev. Jeanette Banks
To help maintain the department of Home Mission of Baltimore we were doing different events such as The Bowl-A-Thon fellowship which was held the past March 30, 2019. The Bowl-A-Thon we through was a great success. We were able to raise $595.00 to assist the work of Home Missions. Thank you to the Presiding Elder for supporting the Bowl-A-Thon. Unfortunately, because of all the Baltimore District function and dates we’re unable to schedule any events. The Baltimore District projected income is six hundred dollar that we will turn in by the due date.
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*The Evangelism team wishes to thank Rev. WalkerJohnson for the outstanding session on Evangelism at the LTI.
Isaiah 61:4 Say; “And they shall build the old wastes, they shall raise up the former desolations, and they shall repair the waste cities, the desolations of many generations.” It is the Home Missions Team desire to assist the mission churches in all areas of ministry as possible. It is the Baltimore Home Missions Vision to establish a repair team that will help churches with their minor repairs such as painting, trash removal, and anything the Repair Team can assist with.
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The Evangelism team report this year is a compiled list of activities from a few of the churches around the district as follows: • Charity – Did a neighborhood walk and passed out lunch bags and offered prayer. Friends and family day worship and a fellowship brunch. • Freedom Temple – Provided fresh vegetables and nonperishable foods to the community throughout the year • Judah Temple – Held several drive-thru prayer events and backpack giveaway and held Summer camp. • New Life – On Wednesdays each ministry chooses an activity or outreach. • Patterson Asbury – Held a 24-week Master Life Discipleship process with an end goal of 4 persons teaching four classes. They held a Back to School outreach and did 4 Corner’s outreach Ministry. Evangelism team presents every person with a Bible that is led to Christ. • Pennsylvania Avenue - held a Harvest Festival. • S.G. Spotswood – Held back to school cook out, children and youth held a seminar, Battling the Giants in your life and group discussion.
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Home Missions and Church Extension Planning Committee: Pauline C. Yarbough Rev. Moses Stevens, Rev. Lowell Williams, Rev. Quinton Borders, Rev. Dr. Edgar Bankhead, Rev. Denase Robinson, Rev. Crystal Harris, Bro. Donald Mackall, Bro. Larry Johnson, Bro. Chuck Williams, Bro. Kirk Taylor.
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STATE OF THE CHURCH The church has always played a viable role in America. It has been a source of faith for our forefathers, a source of strength for our ancestors and a house of prayer for our grandparents. However, in this day and time, as the state of the country and the culture of the world has shifted, the state of the church has changed as well.
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Though we serve a God who is constant and consistent in all His ways, the people who serve Him are not. With the rise in technology, the presence of people in the pews have declined considerably. They have become disconnected in their faith but connected to the church by watching or streaming online. While everything is provided for their viewing pleasure, one cannot help but wonder, how is their soul prospering? In having spirituality at their fingertips, the younger generation seem to forsake fellowship, and are in search of authentic, spiritual experiences that not only speak to the head, but also touch the heart. For this reason, many do not claim any religious affiliation and prefer to practice their faith outside of the four walls. It is in the reaching out—outside of our walls and outside of our comfort zones—that we become the hands of Jesus, demonstrating the love of Christ for one another and being the church, who is known by our love.
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Living out the Gospel and lifting up the name of Jesus should always be the church’s impact and its influence, in the world today. The Committee proposes that this can be done by the following recommendations: • Change is inevitable and it is happening at a rapid speed. If there is any hope for the next generation, the church must be willing to change in order to reach and meet them where they are. The church should be understanding in that times are different and the church of yesterday does not look like the church today. However, that does not mean that we stop being Christians and stop helping to point others to Christ. Instead, we must be willing to do the work that is required so that others might see the God in us. • In doing the work, the church should be constant in fulfilling the Great Commission found in Matthew 28:19, where we are told to “go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost.” In order to do this, churches should ensure that they have Evangelism and/ or Outreach ministries that are fully trained and functioning to go beyond the four walls of the church. In an effort of showing God’s love to all people, these ministries, not just clergy, would meet on a consistent basis and minister to the “lost and to the least of them” no matter where that might be. • With the onslaught of technology, churches should ensure that theirs is a place where people feel welcomed, not just within the foyers, but within our online domain as well. Church’s should have a viable and vibrant online presence. Information should be up to date and user friendly. Church websites should be easily accessible, and its content should be easy to find with just a click of a button. If possible, churches should offer online streaming services (worship service and/or Bible Study), a functioning website with pictures of ministry, ongoing activities and upcoming events, giving/donation options should be provided as well as a correct address, in case one would like to visit.
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In conclusion, even in the face of change, the church must move from comfort and complacency, and opt to do things differently. It must be intentional about reaching out to others, moving beyond the pews and embracing a generation whose means of spirituality may be unlike anything we have come to know, but the God that we serve is one and the same. Respectfully Submitted, Baltimore District State of the Church Committee Rev. Ranesa Mayo, Chair; Rev. Faith Savoy, Rev. Crystal Harris, Rev. Dr. Edgar S. Bankhead, Rev. Shawnta Privette, Rev. Kristina Williams, Bro. Chuck Williams T
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STATE OF THE COUNTRY The United States of America stands at a crossroads. The U.S. House of Representatives is poised to impeach the President for abuse of power and obstructing Congress. Specifically, the President allegedly abused his power by insisting that the Ukrainian government announce an investigation of Joe Biden and his son in exchange for a formal meeting with the President and military aide to fight Russian aggression. He is accused of obstructing Congress because he issued a blanket order to telling federal officials not to provide documents or testify before Congress. However, despite testimony from career State Department officials, Republican leaders in the Senate have signaled that they will not vote to remove the President from office. While this high stakes dispute is unfolding before us, public policy that hurts the poor, the stranger and the disadvantaged continues to be implemented. B A L T I M O R E
The economy is experiencing record unemployment rates at the same time we have high levels of inequality and injustice. Many Americans seem to be fine with the current chaos as long as it does not affect them, and their economic interests are served. We fear the American public is at risk of experiencing a divine humbling. Her heart is hard, and she refuses to acknowledge her sins and live up to her creed.
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Those on the political right have shown themselves have selective moral judgement. They have traded their souls for conservative Supreme Court Justices, conservative lower court judges and tax cuts for corporations and the wealthy; while ignoring and supporting violations of human rights, civil rights and environment injustice. While they chant drain the swamp, they have filled the swamp to overflowing. They have ignored the plight of the poor and needy. This is particularly evident by our inadequate response to victims of natural disasters. Those on the political left have shown themselves to be full of condemnation, vengeance and pride. They, with self-righteous indignation, seem to take pleasure in mercilessly stoning into oblivion anyone in the public square whom with they can find fault. They lack political wisdom and courage. No one on either the right or the left has compassion.
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America has become the land of mass murders. There were more than 370 mass shootings in the United States in 2019. They occur so frequently; we are numb to them. We argue over whether the problem is the availability of high-powered guns or the mental health of murderers. While we show some sorrow over the loss of life, but our sorrow does not compel us to make fundamental changes in our society to prevent these murders. Even more troubling is our non-response to the everyday crisis of murder in black communities. We have little to no compassion for the thousands of victims of murders that are committed and remain unsolved. Many of these murder victims are black. We don’t know who is killing our people in our urban centers and we don’t know how to stop the killings.
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America has shown herself to be the land of racial and religious intolerance. We are far from the nation of Dr. King’s dream. Hate crimes are on the rise. Blacks, Jews, gay and transgender men are most often victims of these crimes. President Trump and his administration has made no effort to combat this domestic terrorism but rather his actions and policies of his administration seem to fuel and inspire hate. While President Trump insist that he is not a white nationalist, the white nationalists have embraced him and think he is one of them. We are seemingly returning to a time in America’s history where racial violence was too commonplace.
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America’s immigration policy defies her history. As a nation of immigrants, we should know the value of diversity and inclusion. However, some would like to withdraw the welcome mat. Some Americans have turn away for the compassionate inscription on the Statute of Liberty and would rather chant “build the wall.” The racial intolerance is at the heart of this debate over immigration policy. America has not fully welcomed persons migrating from Africa, Asia and Latin America. Most troubling is that America has turn away from her European and Asia allies. America has questioned the value of alliances that have maintained world peace since World War II. By embracing defense and trade policies that run counter to the interest of her allies, America has changed the calculations of all of her strategic partners. This policy of America first has created opportunities for China and Russia to develop new partnerships that promote their own interest at American expense. This foreign policy has also emboldened strong men and dictators throughout the world to oppress the weak. The betrayal of the Kurds in Syria is an example of this change in the world. We sing God bless America as we should. However, when is America going to bless God. To whom much is given much is required. America needs to repent of her sins. She needs to turn to Jesus. She needs to find compassion for the least among us. Else, we will find ourselves on the wrong side of history and the wrong side of judgement. Respectfully Submitted, Rev. Dr. Darrell J. Gaskin, Chairperson Committee Members: Rev. Dr. Darrell J. Gaskin, Rev. Crystal Lowe, Sis. Juanita Smith, and Rev. Clyde Witherspoon. 19
NECROLOGY Beth Shalom W W W . B E M O R E A M E Z . O R G
Mrs. Shirley Lane Mr. John McCray Mrs. Ezell Richardson
Clinton Mrs. Gladys Buck Mr. Charles Woodson
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Mr. Russell Street
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Mr. Eddie Crump
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St. John Mrs. Mazie Johnson
For I know that my Redeemer lives, and at the last he will stand upon the earth. And after my skin has been thus destroyed, yet in my flesh I shall see God. - Job 19:25-26 20
THE DISTRICT IN PICTURES
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THE DISTRICT IN PICTURES
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THANKS AND APPRECIATION Rev. Leslie Barnett Davis, Elder’s Steward B A L T I M O R E
Rev. Scot C. Moore, Elder’s Steward
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Rev. & Mrs. David DeVerteuil, Elder’s Assistants Rev. Alanna Thomas, Executive Assistant
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Sis. Katherine Burrell, Secretary
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Rev. Alyce Walker Johnson, Treasurer
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Rev. Dr. Wilmer T. Frazier, Assistant Treasurer
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Sis. Jennifer Ruffin, Financial Secretary Lisa DeVerteuil, District Lay Council Sis. Sharon Hassan, WHOMS President Sis Sarah Pinkney Murkey, District CED Director All Pastors and Laity 23
W W W . B E M O R E A M E Z . O R G · C H U R C H Z I O N A M E D I S T R I C T B A L T I M O R E
www.beMOREamez.org PEHuggins@bemoreamez.org www.facebook.com/groups/BaltimoreDistrict “A Kingdom Focused District Making One Disciple at a Time“