The Epistle - Fall Edition 2022 by Historic St Paul AME Church

MINISTERIAL STAFF

Sister Doris J. Coffey, Exhorter / Editor

Rev. Barry Frazier, Retired Itinerant Elder

Bishop Anne H. Byfield, Presiding Bishop, 13th Episcopal District

HISTORIC ST. PAUL AME CHURCH THE EPISTLE (AUGUST) 2022 FALL EDITION

Rev. Kelly Roberts, Local Elder

Rev. Kenneth E. Paris, Retired Itinerant Elder

Rev. Dr. Robert A. Strode, Pastor

Sister Shelby G. Strode, Exhorter

Rev. Kenneth J. Golphin, Presiding Elder, Bluegrass District

Presently, our thoughts and prayers are with those in Eastern Kentucky affected by flooding. We pray for their strength in the face of such great loss. We are confident in knowing that no matter the situation, or how bleak things may seem, God is still in control. The Holy Bible teaches that God is sovereign. We may not understand why God allows things to happen. Despite calamities and catastrophes, God works “all things according to the counsel of his will” (Ephesians 1:11). By faith, we must not lose faith and hope. Yes, time is surely filled with swift transition. We vastly approach the 155th Kentucky Annual Conference. We greatly anticipate a Holy Ghost filled Conference, hosted by Historic St. John AME Church, Frankfort, KY, September 14 18, 2022. Rev. LaVeeshia Pryor, Host Pastor. Our prayers are with Bishop E. Anne Henning Byfield and Supervisor Ainsley Byfield, as they lead us to THINK BIG!!

Finally, it is most important for us to keep our eyes on the prize, which is the high calling of Christ. Blessings and love, Pastor Robert A. Strode

Greetings and blessings Historic St. Paul AME Church family and friends!! I am so excited about what the Lord is Wedoing!!are very excited about those returning to school!! We pray that they have a safe and great school year!! Time is filled with swift transition. So much has happened over the past few years. We have experienced tumultuous times. We witnessed the pandemic and widespread protests in support of social justice, to name a few.

4.) Joshua 1:9 "Have not I commanded thee? Be strong and of good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the LORD thy God is with thee withersoever thou goest."

10.) Proverbs 3:5-7 - "Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths. Be not wise in thine own eyes: fear the LORD, and depart from evil."

9.) Philippians 4:6-7 - "Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus."

5.) Proverbs 15:5 - "A fool despiseth his father's instruction: but he that regardeth reproof is prudent."

2.) 1 Timothy 4:12 "Let no man despise thy youth; but be thou an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity."

1.) Psalm 27:1 - "The LORD is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? the LORD is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?"

6.) Galatians 5:22 23 "But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law."

7.) Philippians 4:13 - "I can do all things through Christ which stengtheneth me."

3.) Colossians 3:20 - "Children, obey your parents in all things: for this is well pleasing unto the Lord."

3 10 Bible Verses to Conquer August with! August is here, and we all know what that means...summer's basically over, school's about to start and we need Jesus to conquer this new season. Needless to say, we need Him all of the time, in every season!

8.) Philippians 4:19 "But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus."

4 July 14, 2022 Dear Dr. Retia Scott Walker….

Twenty six years ago (where does time go) you walked into our lives and honestly I can’t remember, it seems as if you have been a part of this tribe forever, After three or four retirements and numerous mentions of moving, the time has come and you must leave us…headed to higher heights, flashing lights, the city life and the love of your adored daughter JaRee. While our hearts are saddened at your departure, we realize that there comes a time in life when certain things must come to a screeching halt. Change is inevitable and we all must face that sooner or later. Praise the Lord, it is just a “move” not goodbye. You have enriched the lives of all who have come in contact with you…from your Church family, your many friends from all walks of life, your co workers and strangers as well. You have been a true blessing, serving unselfishly in so many capacities.

Dr. Retia Walker is distinguished in her own right, having many successful years in education as Professor and Dean at several colleges. She is a World Traveler having visited six of the seven

The hardest part of any friendship is when it's time to say goodbye. As much as we might like things to stay the same, change is a part of life. Giving thanks to God that there are many tools available with which we can communicate. All the mountains and valleys in the world cannot separate friends whose hearts and minds are as one. You will be missed…How are we going to celebrate Black History Month without you, your African attire and artifacts? Where will we hold our in house Scrapbook sessions? Who will keep us informed – up to date on the latest health issues and community happenings? Who else will we call “Doctor”? There will always be that comforting thought at the close of the day, when we are sad from missing you because you are in our hearts, you are in our souls, we wanted to grow old with you. We are thankful for so many sweet memories of touching shoulders with you. As you embark on this new venture of your life, may GOD’s blessings and grace be with you. We are going to miss you. Remember GOD is with everyone in everything that we do, as He was with you in all the dreams that you have thought to pursue. May His divine blessings continue to be with you. Your farewell is a moment of sadness for us but we wish you all the best.

O God, you are the strength and the protector of your people. We humbly place in your hands Dr. Retia Scott Walker. Keep and preserve her O Lord, in all health and safety, both of body and soul. God, As we say farewell to our loved one we entrust her into your care. We pray for happiness and joy to be ahead of her, for wisdom and guidance to be beside her, and for grace and truth to be behind her, pushing her onwards into your goodness. We know that you will always love and protect her, wherever she may go. Dr. Retia: Go in the peace of Christ. Our prayers go with you. In the Name of Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. Your Pastor, Church Family and Friends, WE WILL MISS YOU!

We feel sorrow in your leaving, yet we rejoice with you in anticipation of this new phase of your life. We will miss your love and support, yet we know you will add much to the lives of those who will be your new church family, as you have added much to our lives.

We have shared with each other good times and bad, we have shared each other's joys and sorrows, we have lightened each other's heavy loads. Together we have laughed and cried, together we have worshiped and praised God, together we have lived for Christ.

Continents, with the exception of Antarctica, she has traveled to all fifty states, twenty two countries, twelve of the Caribbean Islands. She has visited nine countries in Africa, not only is it interesting to converse with Dr. Retia, it is very informative. She can hold you spell bound for hours telling of her many travels…No Shame! I travel vicariously through her story telling. Not only will she be missed by her friends and Church family, but numerous organizations, boards, and community events. Dr. Retia has the acclaim of fame the first African American dean at the University of Kentucky College of Human Environmental Sciences, a 2017 Inductee, Research Emphasis in Gerontology, Dr. Retia has a plethora of accolades, titles, and credits to her name. We are just blessed that this renowned person passed our way and entered the doors of St. Paul and the chambers of our Hearts ... Dear God, Thank you for giving us the opportunity to meet Dr. Retia, to share our lives with her, the ceremonies, the luncheons, the special outings, the community involvement, to live vicariously through her many travels and her enthusiasm for passing on this knowledge to others. Bless her now as she goes on to new things. May she overcome all difficulties with ease and your grace. We wish her all the best. Dr. Retia we are going to miss you tremendously, please stay in touch. I write this on behalf of Historic St. Paul African Methodist Episcopal Church. I can hear the Church singing “Let the Church say Amen…Doris has written… another flowery speech from the depths of her heart and Google. However, we your beloved Church family feel that it has been a joy and a privilege to worship with us for the past twenty eight years. Of course, one of the most difficult aspects of moving away is to say good bye to so many friends you have made, and of course saying good bye to your church family as well.

The church is a family of believers, united by the common recognition of Jesus Christ as our Savior. We are all brothers and sisters and, for a time, St. Paul has been your place of Worship.

“Prayer meetings were the arteries of the early church. Through them, life sustaining power was derived. The condition of the church may be very accurately gauged by its prayer meetings. So is the prayer meeting a grace-ometer, and from it, we may judge of the amount of divine working among a people. If God is near a church, it must pray. And if He is not there, one of dying first tokens of His absence will be a slothfulness in prayer!” Charles Haddon Spurgeon When is the last time you prayed for your church body? What about your pastor? Staff? Leadership? Have you prayed for your Sunday School teacher? Have you interceded on behalf of issues taking place in your church or decisions that need to be made? Our churches are under the attack of the enemy like never before. Our leaders and each of our brothers and sisters in Christ need our prayers. We are the Body of Christ and we must lift one another up Lord, what the enemy means for evil against our church body, we believe You can use for good. Remind our hearts of this. When we are being attacked and crushed from all sides, remind us of Your faithfulness to use everything for Your good and Your glory. May we not fear but trust in Your provision for our church family. May we not only be readers of Your Word but believers and doers. Increase our faith, Lord. God, help our church body to walk in a manner worthy of the calling You have given us. Help us in all our interactions with one another to have humble and gentle hearts. Grant us patience for one another, bearing with one another in love. Grant the Body of Christ unity. May we walk humbly with You, God, allowing You to show us our wrongs. Lord, You have told us in Your Word that You hear our prayers. We are crying out to You, we are humbling ourselves before You and seeking Your face. We come together as a church body to seek You. We repent and turn from our wicked ways, thank You for hearing us. Thank you for Your forgiveness and healing. As we lift up these words for our churches, let us come before God with humility and a willingness to obey. Let us put others first and serve our brothers and sisters in Christ. May we seek God first, putting aside our own desires. May we become intercessors for our brothers and sisters in Christ. May we pray more and criticize less. May we be encouragers and uplifters. In the Name of Jesus we pray….Amen

Carolyn Francis Jackson, 83, passed away Saturday, July 16, 2022. Born in Lexington she was the daughter of the late Ernest and Margaret Jackson. She retired from IBM and was a faithful member of Historic St. Paul AME Church where she served in many capacities. She was a Life Member of the Missionary SheSociety.is survived by her daughter, Candice Jackson; granddaughter, Kyla Jackson who she shared a special bond; her brother, Harold Jackson; her sister, Gloria (James) Luter; nieces, Monica and Stephanie, nephew Harold Jackson, Jr., as well as a host of cousins and her special friends, Karen Best, Bessie Jackson, Clarence Miller and as well as a host of friends.

A Celebration of Life service will be held 12pm Monday, July 25, 2022 at Historic St. Paul AME Church. Burial will follow in Evergreen Memory Gardens. Visitation will be Monday from 11am-12pm at the church. Kerr Bros. Main St. in charge of arrangements.

8 GOD TEACHES US

TUESDAYS @ 12 NOON……..EXHORTER

Paul writes that we believers have “the mind of Christ,” because His spirit dwells in us leading us and guiding us. Before we were saved, we walked in the natural and we saw in the natural, but once you give your life to Christ, you begin to walk and see in the Spirit. As we are obedient to the promptings of the Holy Spirit we begin to learn to see things the way He sees Whatthem.Godsees

“I will instruct thee and teach thee in the way which thou shalt go: I will guide thee with mine eye.” (Psalm 32:8)

So, let’s stop walking around seeing in only part, and wearing bracelets with W.W.J.D. (what would Jesus do) and study Gods word and get plugged into His spirit so we won’t have to ask what He would do we’ll know what He would do. Lord teaches us and guides us in the way we should go, so let’s take Him up on His offer. God bless you all. DORIS COFFEY ROBERT A. STRODE

isn’t always pretty when it comes to the Church. We have compromised too much with the world and in some cases integrated it into our ministries and services, instead of separating ourselves from it. When we see things in the natural we tend to not see things clearly, and we can’t discern the complete picture of what God is doing.

Praise the Lord, from whom all blessings flow. As men, we often see life one way, the way that makes sense to us. Our carnal minds only give us a limited view, but God wants to give us a different point of view.

Believe it or not God wants us to see things through his eyes. He wants us to see things his way.

WEDNESDAYS 12 NOON & 6PM……PASTOR

• Can I make what I need, using what I have?

• Do I have an almost-as-good alternative that is "enough"? Enjoy the experience of voluntary making do, or, as I call it, being purposefully resourceful!

I invite you to use your "make do" mentality before you walk out your door to buy something you think you need. Here are some tips on how to go about it: With food, make do with whatever leftovers you have in the fridge. You can make great soups with leftover chicken roast and some withered vegetables; a hearty stew with leftover meats and any legume; or a wok with yesterday’s steamed salmon, some rice, and withered leafy greens. Or freeze any of the leftover veggies and make a great vegetarian soup when you have a bagful. Check out savethefood.org for amazing recipes made with soon-to-go-bad ingredients.

Settle for almost-as-good alternatives and be content with them. And remember, any time you need something, exercise your “make do” muscle by asking yourself these three essential questions:

The Benefits and Joy of "Making Do" With What You Have

• Can something I own serve my need?

Repair before replacing and become a handyman! Check out tutorials on how to fix zippers, mend holes in clothes, and fix small appliances. Or, visit a Repair Café… or even start one in your community! Try owning things that serve multiple purposes. You’ll accumulate less stuff, be able to afford better-quality items, and exercise your brain, all at the same time. Examples include using a cast iron pan as a toaster, displaying beautiful functional items as decor (a crystal vase, a vintage quilt, a family kettle), and using your favorite piece of fabric as a handbag.

• Use the life out of all your appliances, but save up enough money to replace them quickly if they are nearing the end of their lifespan. Our 27 year old furnace is still going strong, but we are prepared for it to quit at any moment.

• Darn the holes in your socks instead of throwing them out.

• Store food properly to make it last as long as possible. If it isn’t broken, don’t fix it (or replace it).

Use up your food.

Ways to Make Do With What You Have “Use it up, wear it out, make it do or do without.”?

• Donate good clothing you really can’t use to a non profit and bank the tax deduction.

Take care of your wardrobe to keep it looking work and wear worthy.

• Plan uses for your leftovers. No one likes second hand food, but if you fix it differently the second time around it can still be appetizing.

• Get some shoe polish and shine up those old shoes, take them to a shoe repair shop to have the re heeled or soled if they are worn down. This used to be a common occurrence with a shoe repair shop on every main street.

• Learn to hem and patch and sew on buttons to repair minor issues with clothing

• Pass down serviceable clothing from child to child.

• Buy dried milk to use in cooking especially if you aren’t a regular milk drinker.

• Pay attention to expiration dates by organizing your pantry and freezer so that the oldest food is in front.

• If one feature goes out (like an ice maker on a freezer), but the rest of the unit still works fine, think about using an alternative to extend the life of the appliance (like making your own ice, or buying a bag a week at the grocery).

• Learn how to remove spots and do it as soon as the clothing gets dirty.

• With fresh food buy only what you can eat before it goes bad. A good deal on a big bag of fresh lettuce isn’t thrifty if you can’t use it up before it rots.

• Buy good clothing, used. Avoid buying cheap clothing new.

• Make old t shirts and dish cloths into rags to use when dusting or washing the car and etc.

• Avoid re-decorating your home every few years. There have been countless times I have seen nearly new, decorator pieces being sold for pennies on the dollar at garage sales because the homeowner decided to re-decorate. Try re-arranging furniture and a deep cleaning instead.

Add one or two small new-to-you items to make things seem different.

• Instead of paying for television programming, view free TV or cheap movies on Netflix (or maybe even read a real book!).

• Instead of going out to eat with friends, take turns cooking and eating at each home.

If you can’t afford it, do something else.

• You Tube can show you how to do most everything these days. If that won’t work, hire a handyman to help you fix a broken (assuming the cost is estimated to be less than replacing).

• If you can’t afford air-conditioning, consider a ceiling or attic fan as an alternative. Our direct ancestors lived with much less and had many fewer possessions than we now have and use. Making do was a proud tradition just a generation ago – it showed that you were smart, thrifty and responsible. Our parents and grandparents were ‘green’ before green was cool. Most of them had little use for huge walk in closets or shoe racks to hold dozens of pairs of shoes or garages to hold more than one or two cars. Most of us seem to ‘need’ these things – but do we really? Making do is not disgraceful and I encourage you to try it out.

• Instead of taking the family to a movie, have a home movie night with friends and family.

• If you can’t afford a car, use public transportation.

• Keep your vehicle instead of trading it in every 2 or 3 years. If you maintain it by changing the oil, rotating the tires and keeping it clean you are well on your way to having a serviceable car for years. If it is broken, fix it instead of trashing it.

• If you can’t afford a gift, make or do something for the recipient.

• Instead of paying for telephone, use free services over the internet (Skype and Google both have them – but note that there may be privacy issues in their use).

• Instead of taking the family to a professional sports game, attend a little league game near your home and cheer on the neighbor’s child.

• Check online for replacement parts, you will usually find them.

During this time, we pray especially for… Those who are graduates with uncertainty hindering their future, Those who lost their jobs and are finding ways to meet their financial needs, Those who lost their loved ones, and their funeral services are limited or postponed, Those who are fighting against addiction and are unable to meet with their recovery groups, Those who feel fear as hate crimes and incidents arise.

During this time, O God, Enter into our sorrows, worries, addictions, financial burdens, fears, and injustices, Fill us with your grace, hope, and joy abundantly, Turn each home into a place of peace, unity, and love for each other, Renew our hearts and minds to seek the knowledge of your mercy and love, Help our souls to be united in incessant prayer. Let us receive this prayer of Apostle Paul: “I ask—ask the God of our Master, Jesus Christ, the God of glory—to make you intelligent and discerning in knowing [God] personally, your eyes focused and clear, so that you can see exactly what it is [God] is calling you to do, grasp the immensity of this glorious way of life [God] has for [you], oh, the utter extravagance of [God’s] work in us who trust [the Lord]—endless energy, boundless strength!” Let it be so. Amen.

Like those disciples in Acts 1 experiencing the time in between, Witnessing Ascension of Jesus Christ and awaiting the decent of the Holy Spirit, A time in between staring into heaven and staying in one place. During our time in between, We wait with hope for you are the source of every hope, We wait with patience for your timing is always perfect, We wait with prayer for you are listening intently, We wait with praise for you take all our anxieties as we cast them on you.

Today's Prayer Holy and living God, In you “we live and move and exist” (Acts 17:28) In you we find our shelter and strength, In you our hearts are being filled with joy each morning, In you we sing praises with a new song, In you we trust that your promises are the way.

A Tribute to Our Lay Member Carolyn Francis Jackson 12/18/1938 – 7/16/2022

The Final Flight Unknown Author Don’t grieve for me, for now I’m free, I’m following the path God laid for me. I took his hand when I heard his call, I turned my back and left it all. I could not stay another day, To laugh, to love, to work, to play. Tasks left undone must stay that way, I’ve found that peace at the end of the day.

Presented by The Spame Lay Organization

As we remember, our dear friend in Christ, we pray for her daughter Candice and granddaughter Kyla, and for her sister Gloria and brother Harold, all whom she loved dearly.

In the course of her lifelong journey with Christ, which span over 83 years, Carolyn was baptized and a lifelong member of Historic St. Paul. She not only served her overall church in a number of our most trusted leadership and support capacities, but her leadership in the Lay Organization also included Vice President, Membership Chairperson, Special Program Coordinator, and much more. No matter what office or title she held, the most distinguishing mark of her service demonstrated her very solid strength of character, friendship, honesty and integrity, and was an inspiration to others of every age. None of us will ever forget her broad smile and hearty laugh. None of us will ever forget when she signaled us to start and end our meeting timely. None of us will ever forget how she skillfully organized our special worship programs. And oh, so many more special memories we shall never forget.

It is with great sadness that our Historic St. Paul AME Church and the Lay Organization mourns the death of one of our most dedicated, resolute and highly respected leaders, Carolyn Francis Jackson.

SPAME Lay Organization member Lutisha Coleman participated as one of the ten talented senior adults, 62 years of age and older, in the 3rd Annual Morning Pointe Seniors Got Talent grand finale. The variety show was held at the Lexington Opera House on the evening of August 11, 2022. Lutisha has devoted her whole life to music. Her powerful piano performance moved the crowd to their feet and gave her a well deserve 1st Place win in the competition. It was remarked that her mastery of the artform is clear is when you hear her play. But it’s her influence on generations of young musicians that deserves just as much recognition. Judging the event was local celebrity judges Whit Whitaker, performing artist and executive director of the historic Lyric Theatre & Cultural Arts Center, Austin Robinson, owner, and director of Edge Music Therapy LLC as well as Lyndy Franklin Smith. Smith co-founded The Lexington Theatre Company (The Lex) alongside her husband, Jeromy.

Congratulations Lutisha. We are so very proud of you.

Donate To Help Eastern Kentucky Flood Victims

Perhaps my time seemed all too brief, Don’t lengthen it now with undue grief. Lift up your heart and share with me, God wanted me now, He set me free.

Pianist Lutisha Coleman Displays Her Talents

14 If my parting has left a void, Then fill it with remembered joy. A friendship shared, a laugh, a kiss, Ah, yes, these things too I will miss. Be not burdened with times of sorrow, I wish you the sunshine of tomorrow. My Life’s been full, I savoured much, Good friends, good times, a loved one’s touch.

Governor Beshear has established the Team Eastern Kentucky Flood Relief Fund to assist those impacted by the floods and the severe weather system beginning July 26, 2022. All donations to the Team Eastern Kentucky Flood Relief Fund are tax deductible and donors will receive a receipt for tax purposes after donating. Donate to the Flood Relief Fund: https://secure.kentucky.gov/FormServices/Finance/EKYFloodRelief

Accomplished

The Methodist Episcopal Church began its ministry in Lexington, Kentucky in 1779 in a log cabin on the corner of Short and Deweese Streets. In 1803, the congregation was det ached from the circuit and was organized into a station. This was the first Methodist station in Kentucky and was composed of 47 white and 30 black members. The station evolved into Hill Street Methodist Episcopal Church a place where white slaveholders and overseers gave instructions to African slaves which was a member of the Conference of the Methodist Episcopal Church South, and what is today the First United Methodist Church on High Street

ABRIDGED HISTORY

In the early 1800’s discussions on whether slavery was an unholy alliance of the Christian doctrine taught by Jesus Christ began to grow bitter in the Methodist church. During those years many blacks became anxious to establish their own churches. Small groups began to hold meetings on their own. Since slaves were not allowed to own property, they sought approval and support from their owners. Around 1820, several black members requested permission from the white Methodist church in Lexington to form their own congregation and rented a brick, horse stable on North Upper Street from a local banker, Charles Wilkins. The stable was located on the same site as the present main church building. Church meetings were often interrupted or disturbed by “lawless people”. In addition to renting the property to the congregat ion, Mr. Wilkins promised to protect those who worshipped there from harassment by "lawless people." It was reported that he kept his promise. A local black preacher named William Smith served as the church's first pastor.

August 2022

Presented by The Spame Lay Organization, in partnership with the Commission on Christian Social Action and the Church Historian

In 1830, much of the stable was removed and a small brick church constructed on the site. However, a portion of the original stable is thought to remain in the basement of the present church building.

The church, known as the Colored Methodist Episcopal Church, was a mission of the Hill Street Methodist Episcopal Church for several years before being formally established as St. Paul ME Church in May 1826. One year later, in May 1827, Rev. Smith led the church to purchase the lot and the stable from Mr Wilkins for $280. The original lot was 33 by 95 feet on North Upper Street. The following names were signed to the deed as trustees: Daniel Francis, John Skinker, Benjamin Tibbs, William Dolan, and Peter Lewis.

In March 1850 an additional lot 75 by 95 feet was purchased for $1.00. On July 8, 1862, the

KNOW YOUR CHURCH HISTORY HISTORIC ST. PAUL AME CHURCH

HISTORIC ST. PAUL AME CHURCH

After the Civil War, the growing number of freed blacks in Lexington who wanted a place to worship caused overcrowding at St. Paul. The congregation had grown to include 340 members by 1881. The growth in population led St. Paul to establish the Quinn Mission to help meet the needs of the growing population. A member of St. Paul named G. C. Riley organized the mission and held services in several homes on Lee's Row until a frame church was built on Evans Street in 1910. Quinn Chapel A.M.E. Church

JOINING THE AME CHURCH After the Civil War ended in 1865, all 300 black Methodist churches, including St. Paul, withdrew from the Methodist Episcopal Church Conference of the South. St Paul became an independent black Methodist Episcopal Church for a short period of time. The congregants joined the Ohio Conference of the African Methodist Episcopal Church Conference in 1866.The following is part of a first person account written by Mrs. A.B. Lynem in1932. In the spring of 1865, David Evans of Wilberforce, Ohio came to Lexington, held a conference with Rev. Pittman, officers and members of the church in reference to joining the African Methodist Church, which resulted in St. Paul becoming a part of the Great A.M.E. Church. Father Smith, being a presiding Elder, appointed Rev. George Shaeffer Assistant Pastor until the meeting of the Annual Conference which met in Cincinnati, September 1866. From that Conference, the gifted Grafton Graham, a fine Propheteer, was assigned to St. Paul and remained three years, which was then the limit. In 1870, Rev. Levi Evans was assigned to St. Paul and remained two years and it was under his administration that I joined St. Paul in 1871. There are only two members in St. Paul that were members in 1871, Brother Charles Allen and Sister Elizabeth Holmes. Rev. Graham was assigned to pastor St. Paul by Bishop Daniel A. Payne. The church received an addition in the 1850's and experienced major renovations and expansion in1876 and 1877. The cost of the remodeling was $4,000 and was reported in the Lexington Daily Press on August 1, 1876. The church was again remodeled in 1906 and 1986, and the sanctuary remains almost exactly as it was 100 plus years ago. Rev. E. A. Clarke wrote an article that appeared in the Lexington Leader on April 13, 1911 with the headline the "Int eresting History of A.M.E. Edifice." The timing of the article corresponded with the issuance by the church of a "handsome calendar" with the church's history.

congregation purchased an adjacent property of 125 by 100 feet for $400 that included part of the city stray pen, where stray dogs and cattle were held until identified by their owners. The trustees sold part of that lot on February 28, 1863 for $242. The present building was constructed in 1863.

Clay Lancaster's book, Vestiges of the Venerable City, asserts that St. Paul is the oldest, continuously used, existing house of workshop in Lexington. The church was placed on the National Register of Historic Places on August 28, 1979. It was given Historic Overlay (H-1) zoning and placed on the Bluegrass Trust for Historic Preservation in 1991. H-1 zoning helps to protect and preserve areas of historic and architectural importance in Lexington and Fayette County.

The Gothic Revival-style window pictured on the first page in this history presentation may be the oldest window in the church. It was added during the first expansion of the church building in the 1850s. A second expansion increased the height of the sanctuary and added Italianate details, including the 20 almost floor-to-ceiling stain-glass windows, each telling a biblical story. Due to efforts of Rev. James Stowe and Lillian Gentry, a grant was received from the Kentucky African American Heritage Commission to seal and protect the windows for posterity. On the highest stained glass window, there’s a small ruby implanted in the center circle that, in a sense, according to Riley Guttman, WEKU News (July 30, 2012) represents what St. Paul is a small, but unique, and important gem in history.

Following are a few notable contributions:  St. Paul as a station on the “Underground Railroad” was a safe harbor to run-aways during the fugitive slave movement. A hidden, narrow staircase behind the chancel rises steeply and twists until it comes to the door of a small room above the sanctuary, which was used to hide freedomseekers for a short time until they could resume their flight on the “Underground Railroad”. The Underground Railroad was a network of secret routes and safe harbors used by slaves to escape and find freedom in Free states and Canada with the aid of Abolitionists and allies who were sympathetic to their cause. Runaway slaves would hide in the room for several days, before a cart arrived to take them north. Once the cart arrived, a bell was rung and the runaways had only five minutes to get out. Not only did St Paul help slaves to find freedom beyond the Ohio River but also helped to undermine the institution of slavery. A courageous act!

 In October 1865, Dr. W.H. Ballard Sr. was sent to Lexington by the American Missionar y Association to open and t each a school for recentlyfreed African American boys and girls, the first such school in Lexington. He lived with the Henry Britton family who were members of St. Paul. Dr. Ballard attended St. Paul and helped promote the use of the church as a meeting place for African American’s concerned about the education of the race following slavery.

 St. Paul served as a meeting place for the assemblies of the First Convention of Colored Men of Kentucky in Lexington in 1866. and the Colored State Conventions held in Lexington in 1867 and 1885

COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT

St. Paul's legacy extends far beyond its walls. It has a long-standing history of community involvement and has been a beacon light in the Lexington Community through various projects that empowered people to engage in positive change. Inclusive in its mission, St Paul has engrained the tenets of faith and freedom in its creed to assist in the continued growth of all people. St Paul has a long, proud, and courageous history promoting Lexington’s civic and educational advancement and equal rights for all citizens.

17 is currently located on 744 Charles Ave. WINDOWS

During World War I, St. Paul congregation participated in community Fourth of July celebrations by showing special films of African American soldiers in battle and the role they played during the war. During World War11 (1939-1945), mothers of soldiers frequently met at the church. Mrs. Lucy Harth Smith, a well known educator in the city, was a participant in those historic meetings. The congregation formed the American War Mothers group to provide support for families with sons and daughters away at war.

MINISTERS 1820 1865 William Smith 1900 A. J. Chambers Mrs. Smith 1902 A. H. Ross James Turner 1903 J.H. Byrd Daniel Francis 1904 1909 C.C. Townsend Henry Blythe 1909 1912** Edward Alexander Clarke Christopher Brand 1912 J.C. Anderson Elias Green 1913 O. E. Jones Serbuty Reors 1919 David Johnson Andrew Bryant 1922 A. T. Clark Wilson Talbot 1924 J. O. Johnson Samuel Keys 1926 (1927 Frank Madison Reid Moses Pittman 1932 F.Douglas 1865 George Shaeffer 1935 Months)*(6 George A. Singleton 1866 Grafton Graham 1936 Thomas M. George 1870 Levi Evans 1938 H.M. McLinn

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Prominent members of St. Paul helped to establish the Colored Orphan Industrial Home (now the Robert H. Williams Cultural Center) and the Phyllis Wheatley YWCA.

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On October 15, 1885, Rev. William J. Simmons, A.M., D.D., called a meeting of prominent black Kentuckians at St. Paul A.M.E. Church. As a result of these meeting during the fall of 1885, on November 26, 1885, the group adopted resolutions asking the Kentucky General Assembly for better public schools and a normal school to educate black teachers. There was no school in the state to educate black teachers. Among the men in attendance at that meeting were Dr. Simmons, A.W. Titus, E.W. Glass, G.W. Gentry, Professor James S. Hathaway (who was elected Secretary), John W. Bate, and Charles H. Parrish. On May 18, 1886, Governor J. Proctor Knott signed a bill calling for the establishment of a “State Normal School for Colored Persons”. According to “Against the Tide”, a history of Kentucky State University written by Mrs. Ann Heartwell Hunter, the meetings led to the establishment of Kentucky Normal, which is now Kentucky State University located in Frankfort.

19 1871 G.B. Stanberry 1939 1942* Harrison J. Bryant 1872 J. W. Gazzaway 1942 C.S. Spivey 1876 John W. Asbury 1942 1950 William H. White 1879 J. W. Gazzaway 1950 1952 Henry M. Green 1880 L.F. Lindsey 1952 - 1956 Joseph Reid 1881 R. G. Whitman 1956 1968 C.T. Buchanan 1883 Levi Hamilton 1968 1974 R.L. Parker Sr. 1884 J.L. Grisby 1974 1980 H.L. Parks 1885 John M. Abby 1980 1989 Fredrick D. Smith 1887 J .M. Turner 1989 1994 Robert E. Kesee 1889 Enoch Johnson 1994 - 1997 James Stowe 1890 Jesse Smith 1997 1999 George Moore 1891 P. A. Mattews 1999 2006 Kenneth E. Paris 1892 John W. Pickett 2006 2007 Kenneth E. Golpin 1893 A. J. Chambers 2007 2014 Troy Thomas 1896 J. T. Morrow 2014 2018 William R. T. Hale 2018 Present- Robert A. Strode **ReferencesEdward Alexander Clark (1909 – 1912) & Fouse – Who’s Who In the Colored Race, Biography Encyclopedia of African America Religions Clarke, E. A., "St. Paul's Church," Lexington Leader, April 13, 1911, page 6 col. 4. Harrison J. Bryant (1939-42) Built Parsonage Historic Profile of St. Paul A.M.E. Church, 1976 Heartwell-Hunter, Ann J., Against the Tide, self-published, 1986. Saint Paul African Methodist Episcopal Church Designation Report, 1991 Byers, Lauretta Flynn, Lexington's Colored Orphan Industrial Home, Lexington: I.B. Bold Publications, Abridged1995. History of St. Paul A.M.E. Church – August 20, 2006 WEKU News & Riley Guttman, WEKU News • Jul 30, 2012 Kaintuckeean - www.kaintuckeean.com African American Heritage Trail in Downtown Lexington by Doris Wilkinson

A Snapshot In Time The Underground Railroad

You may have heard “the way it used to be” ‐‐ a long, long time ago!

The Underground Railroad was a network of secret routes and safe houses established in the United States during the late 1700s and early to mid-1800s and used by enslaved African Americans to escape into free states and Canada. One estimate suggests that by 1850, 100,000 slaves had escaped via the "Railroad".

Kentucky was the last state slaves needed to pass through on the Underground Ra ilroad’s northern route to freedom. Its location on the border of slave and non-slave states and its unique geography as the only state surrounded on three sides by rivers created opportunities for people who were willing to risk their lives to live in freedom, and those willing to risk everything to help them One of the hidden “stations” on the Underground Railroad was located at Lexington’s Historic St. Paul AME Church on North Upper Street. A hidden, narrow staircase behind the pulpit rises steeply and twists until it comes to the door of a small room above the sanctuary. Aided by Abolitionists and allies who were sympathetic to their cause, the runaway slaves would hide in the room for several days before a cart arrived to take them north. Once the cart arrived, a bell was rung, and the runaways had only five minutes to get out. As for being tracked by slave catchers, the fugitives had a clever way of masking their scent. The city stray dog pound and cattle pen was right next to the church. The fugitive slaves walked through the dung, etc. at the pound. The stench hid their scent from the overseers seeking to find them. If someone couldn’t make it out, members of the church woul d take them in for about three weeks until the next group came.

The hidden "station" was installed in the church in 1850 and "believe it or not" remains "intact" in our church today. Not only did Historic St. Paul AME Church help slaves to find freedom beyond the Ohio River bu t a lso hel ped to undermine the institution of slavery. A courageous act! 20

Elections are the cornerstone of our democracy and election officers are the backbone of conducting elections. The Board of Elections is always looking for qualified voters to assist in conducting elections.

You could be a volunteer Election Officer Working as an Election Officer

Election officers are voters who help ensure the voting process goes smoothly. More than 1200 voters in Fayette County serve as election officers for the Fayette County Board of Elections to ensure that fair and accurate elections are conducted. On Election Day the Board of Elections counts on election officers to efficiently process voters, provide instructions on the proper use of voting equipment, and make sure that everyone who is eligible is given the opportunity to vote. It's a great way to serve your community and it's a day to feel proud to be an American.

Requirements to Serve as an Election Officer:

1. An election officer must be a qualified Democrat or Republican voter in the precinct in which he/she serves unless appointed as an alternate. An alternate must be a registered voter in the county. Registered 17 year olds may serve in the primary election if they will be 18 years old on or before the day of the general election.

2. An election officer cannot have changed party affiliation for one year prior to appointment.

3. An election officer must be able to read and write English.

6. An election officer cannot be the spouse, parent, brother, sister or child of a candidate who is to be voted for at the election in the precinct in which the election officer will serve on Election Day.

8. An election officer must have transportation to election training and to the precinct on Election Day. If you feel you are qualified based on the criteria above and would like to volunteer to serve as an election officer, please send an email to elections@fayettecountyclerk.com that includes your name, address, and phone number where you may be reached. Please also indicate whether you are willing to serve as an alternate in any precinct or whether you prefer to work in your home precinct only. We will add you to our pool of potential officers and we will contact you if and when an officer is needed.

4. An election officer must attend training sessions required by the Fayette County Board of Elections before each primary and general election.

5. An election officer cannot be a candidate for office during the election year.

7. An election officer must be able to work from 5:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. or until the polls close, to stand for long periods of time and lift up to 25 pounds.

22 Order Your Free At-Home COVID-19 Tests Every home in the U.S. is eligible to order a 3rd round of free at home tests. Order yours today on USPS.com. Here's what you need to know about your order: • Each order now includes #8 rapid antigen COVID 19 tests (FDA has more details about at home tests, including extended shelf life and updated expiration dates: https://www.fda.gov/medical devices/coronavirus-covid-19-and medical devices/home-otc-covid-19-diagnostic-tests#list • Your order of #8 tests will come in #2 separate packages (#4 tests in each package), each with its own tracking number • Packages will ship free COVID-19 Testing COVID 19 testing is available at various locations in Lexington. • Wild Health Community Testing Testing is available by appointment through Wild Health at Wild Health Field, 207 Legends Lane. Appointments can be made by visiting lexington.wildhealth.com • Lexington VA Health Care System Veterans Testing Veterans can call to make an appointment, Monday through Friday, for a test at a drive thru clinic at the Sousley Campus at 2250 Leestown Rd. Call (859) 233-4511. • Walgreens Walgreens is providing COVID testing with an appointment. Learn more about testing locations and securing an appointment at: testing.jsp?ban=covidinfoLP_testinginfoLP_fy21https://www.walgreens.com/topic/promotion/covid • Kroger Health Little Clinic Testing is available at Kroger Little Clinic locations in Lexington. Appointments are required: https://www.kroger.com/health/pharmacy/covid care • CVS Testing is available at CVS Pharmacy https://www.cvs.com/minuteclinic/covidlocations:19testing • Additional testing Testing is also available at: • Urgent Care Centers (various locations) – Register online, telephone or walk in. • Medix DX Labs (3191 Beaumont Centre Circle) – https://medixdx.com/ • Redding Drug (431 Redding Road, Suite 140) – https://app.acuityscheduling.com/schedule.php?owner=21178731 • Most healthcare providers offer testing with appointment Food Assistance God’s Pantry Food Bank and the United Way of the Bluegrass pre package food boxes that can be distributed to families in need. Boxes are stocked with provisions designed to meet a family’s needs for about a week. God’s Pantry estimates 10,000 food boxes will be needed per month. Families in Fayette County should call (859) 259 2308 or visit godspantry.org/help to find the closest site. Eligibility is based on current income and household size.

NEW STATE LAWS IN EFFECT

July

Submitted by Senator Reginald Thomas 19, FRANKFORT2022

Some of the laws taking effect include measures on the following topics: Anti-SLAPP bill: House Bill 222 seeks to protect freedom of speech. It will offer protection to those who speak out against a matter of public interest from strategic lawsuits against public participation, known as SLAPP lawsuits.

– The Kentucky General Assembly passed nearly 250 bills during the 2022 Regular Session, most of which took effect last week. Some of the new laws help move Kentucky forward, while others I feel could potentially endanger Kentucky’s residents and programs. Several of the laws increase penalties for fentanyl dealers and porch pirates, require local school boards to hold a public comment period, and facilitate other actions that will affect people across the commonwealth.

The Kentucky Constitution specifies that new laws take effect 90 days after the adjournment of the legislature unless they have special effective dates, are general appropriation measures, or include emergency clauses that make them effective immediately upon becoming law. Final adjournment of the 2022 session was on April 14, making July 14 the effective date for most bills.

Imagination Library: Senate Bill 164 establishes the Imagination Library of Kentucky Program. Founded by country music legend Dolly Parton, this international literacy program provides free books monthly to children from birth to age 5. The state will provide 50% of the funds.

Education: Senate Bill 1 designates local superintendents as the lead officials for selecting the appropriate educational curriculum and materials for local schools. It also includes language from the Teaching American Principles Act, which will require instruction in social studies to align with a list of core concepts and documents that supporters say are central to American civics.

Pari-mutuel wagering: House Bill 607 taxes every pari-mutuel wager at a standard 1.5% rate, including advance-deposit wagers and bets on simulcasts. It also directs more money to the general fund, makes the Kentucky Racing Commission responsible for self-funding, creates a 24

Due process: House Bill 290 calls on state colleges and universities to adopt a student code of conduct for non-academic disciplinary procedures and provide students with due process protections that are similar to those in criminal and civil courts.

Child fatalities: Under Senate Bill 97, law enforcement are required to request a blood, breath, or urine test from parents and caregivers suspected of being under the influence at the time of a suspicious child death. If consent is not given, this bill gives law enforcement the power to request a search warrant.

Crimes during emergencies: Senate Bill 179 enhances penalties for crimes committed during a natural or man-made disaster declaration. These crimes include assault, burglary, criminal trespass, criminal mischief, theft, receiving stolen property, and robbery.

Charter schools: House Bill 9 establishes a funding model for charter schools, building on legislation from 2017 that first allowed charters in Kentucky. It also authorizes two pilot charter school projects in Louisville and Northern Kentucky and changes the appeals process if education officials deny an application for a new charter school.

Child abuse: House Bill 263, known as Kami’s Law, makes criminal abuse against a victim under 12 years of age a Class B felony.

Death penalty: House Bill 269 adds serious mental illness to the list of disabilities that disqualify offenders from execution if symptoms were occurring at the time of the offense.

First responders: Senate Bill 64 aims to protect the confidentiality of first responders who participate in peer support counseling programs. Supporters say it will benefit thousands of public safety workers who frequently experience trauma on the job but could face repercussions from frank discussions in counseling.

Incest: Senate Bill 38 classifies incest as a violent offense. It also ensures that individuals guilty of incest complete at least 80% of their prison sentence.

Criminal justice reform: Senate Bill 90 calls for pilot programs in at least 10 Kentucky counties, providing deferred prosecutions and diversion or dismissal of charges for some lowlevel offenders based on their participation in drug treatment and vocational services.

Fentanyl: Known as Dalton’s Law, House Bill 215 requires those convicted of trafficking fentanyl, carfentanil, or fentanyl derivatives to serve at least 85% of their criminal sentences, up from the current 50%. It also makes importing those drugs from another state or country a Class C felony and deems offenders ineligible for a pretrial diversion.

School breakfasts: Senate Bill 151 calls on schools in the Federal School Breakfast Program to offer students up to 15 minutes to eat breakfast during instructional time.

You can also leave a message for me on the Legislative Message Line at (800) 372-7181. Citizens 25

Porch pirates: Senate Bill 23 cracks down on the theft of packages off of front porches, often referred to as porch piracy. The bill makes it a Class D felony to steal or destroy packages from common carriers and delivery services such as Amazon or FedEx.

Telecommunicators: House Bill 79 expands the Law Enforcement Professional Development Wellness Program to assist telecommunicators who are coping with post-traumatic stress disorder or work-induced stress. It will also increase training and resources for telecommunicators related to stress disorders.

Public assistance: House Bill 7 aims to revamp public assistance benefits and combat fraud with new rules around benefit eligibility. It also seeks to increase accountability from the state Cabinet for Health and Family Services and encourage healthy choices for those receiving nutritional assistance.

Transgender athletes: Senate Bill 83 will prevent male-to-female transgender students from participating in girls’ sports, starting in the sixth grade and continuing through college. Kentuckians can research bills and resolutions and review statistics from the 2022 Regular Session by visiting legislature.ky.gov. There, you can also see the weekly schedule, watch live coverage of committee meetings, search legislator contact information, learn about the legislative process, view informational materials, and request to testify at committee meetings.

Peace officer certifications: House Bill 206 prohibits anyone convicted of a misdemeanor sexual offense from serving as a peace officer.

Legislators will continue holding Interim Joint Committee meetings through November 2022. In the meantime, to share feedback on an issue, you can email me at Reginald.Thomas@LRC.KY.GOV

Serving alcohol: House Bill 252 clears the way for 18-year-olds to sell and serve alcoholic beverages.

self-exclusion list for problem gamblers, and eliminates the track admissions tax.

Student mental health: House Bill 44 allows school boards to include provisions in their student attendance policy for excused absences due to a student’s mental or behavioral health status.

School board meetings: House Bill 121 requires a public comment period of at least 15 minutes at local school board meetings unless no one is signed up to speak. It also requires that any board rules and policies regarding conduct apply during the comment period.

Swatting: House Bill 48 makes falsely reporting an incident that results in an emergency response – commonly called “swatting” – a Class D felony.

Religious services: House Bill 43 calls for equal treatment of houses of worship and religious organizations during a state of emergency.

School resource officers: House Bill 63 calls on local school districts to place a school resource officer in each school by Aug. 1 if they can afford the cost. It also allows local school boards to establish a police department for the district.