The Service of Episcopal Consecration
for Althea E. Greene to the Office of Bishop Ordinary
for the Kingdom Culture Assembly of Churches and Ministries
at Memphis, Tennessee On the Twenty-Seventh Day in the Month of June, in the Year of our Lord, Two-Thousand Twenty at Twelve O’clock Post Meridian THE MOST REVEREND ANDRE T. BEATTY
Presiding Bishop, The Kingdom Culture Assembly of Churches and Ministries Chief Celebrant
THE RIGHT REVEREND ZEDRIC KURT CLAYTON Concelebrant
THE RIGHT REVEREND MATTHEW DANA RAY Concelebrant
THE VERY REVEREND PAUL K. REED New Friendship Missionary Baptist Church
Homilist
The Chief Consecrator
The Most Reverend Andre T. Beatty T E A C H E R - P OW E R F U L C O M M U N I C AT O R - 2 1 S T C E N T U R Y L E A D E R
Bishop Andre T. Beatty is an evangelist, conference speaker, life strategist and coach, counselor, and playwright. Originally from Milwaukee, WI, he is the youngest son of Andrew L. and Alice N. Beatty. Andre accepted Christ at the age of 14 at the Jerusalem Missionary Baptist Church under the leadership of Dr. Donnie Simms. He was called into public ministry at the age of fifteen, and first preached publicly at the age of seventeen. He accepted his first pastorate at the age of 22 at the St. John No. 3 Baptist Church in Newbern, Tennessee. He has successfully pastored and given oversight to other pastors, church plants and rebuilding ministries during his twenty-five years of active ministry. His engaging teaching style, coupled with his background in music offers worshipers an opportunity to have a memorable, life changing experience with the Lord Jesus at every worship opportunity. He has authored five books: “A word and a Wait”, “Seize the Day!”, “Love Affair”, the newly released “The Millionaire Moment” and the upcoming release “The Ring Finger Files: 10 Things to Know Before You Say ‘I don’t!’” which he authored with his wife Shontelle NormanBeatty. Bishop Andre T. Beatty has ministered across the United States and internationally. He is currently a student of Columbia Southern University (Alabama), and serves as the Senior Bishop and visionary of the Kingdom Culture Assembly of Churches and Ministries - a network for pastors and a covering for independent churches, headquartered in Houston, Texas. He and his wife Shontelle have 5 beautiful children and 8 amazing grandchildren.
Bishop-Designate Dr. Althea E. Greene ~ P a s t o r a n d E d u c at o r ~ Bishop-Designate Althea E. Greene is the daughter of Mae Cohens and the late Mr. Henry Cohens Jr. of Memphis, Tennessee. She is the mother of Eumecca Long and LaKesa Greene and grandmother to X’Zavier and Jase. Bishop-Designate Greene was educated in the Memphis City Schools System, LeMoyne Owen and Tusculum College. After graduating with a Bachelor of Science and Masters of Art Degree, she responded to God’s call. She began to preach the Gospel in 1987 at Vollintine M.B. Church, where the late Rev. W.M. Fields, Jr. licensed her. Bishop-Designate Greene continued her studies and graduated from Tennessee School of Religion with a Bachelors of Theology and a Masters of Theological Studies. She retired from Shelby County Schools after thirty- eight years of service. Presently, she is the Operator of Greene’s Grill and Three Generations Catering. Bishop-Designate Greene has served as an on-call Chaplain at The Regional Medical Center at Memphis (now Regional One) and William Bowld Hospitals. Bishop-Designate Greene took a leap of faith in November 2002 and responded once again to God’s powerful call. She organized Real Life Ministries and began services on January 5, 2003. Real Life Ministries moved to a new location in October 2010 mortgage-free. Real Life Ministries celebrated its seventeenth anniversary in January. Currently, the church hosts ten active ministries. Bishop-Designate Greene has received numerous awards which include the Award of Excellence from WMC-TV and Memphis Area Teacher’s Credit Union. She was named Christian Educator of the Millennium, sponsored by the Beta Epsilon Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. In addition, Bishop-Designate Greene received the Crystal Apple Teacher Award from WMCTV. Bishop-Designate Greene is also a proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., and serves on the Spiritual Leadership Team for the Shelby County Chapter. Other memberships include: National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP), Southern Christian Leadership Council (SCLC), and Stand for Children. Bishop-Designate Greene served as the former Regional Director for Emerging Churches for the Central Region of the Full Gospel Baptist Church Fellowship and President of Mid-South Covenant Churches. Pastor Greene was recently appointed Bishop-Designate by Bishop Andre T. Beatty, and the Executive Council of the Kingdom Culture Assembly of Churches and Ministries.
She is a member of New Friendship Missionary Baptist Church, under the dynamic leadership of Pastor Paul and Co-Pastor Debra Reed. Her passions include: teaching, preaching, reading, traveling, shopping, and grilling. Bishop-Designate Greene loves the Lord, and gives God the Glory in her Pastoral work. Most recently, Bishop-Designate Greene was appointed to serve District 2 on the Shelby County School Board by the Shelby County Board of Commissioners.
VOLUNTEER WORK HISTORY Methodist LeBonheur Hospital Community Health Network, Liaison Methodist Hospital North, Volunteer Mayor’s Youth Guidance Commission, Chair Education Committee Snowden School, PTO, Chairman of Community Outreach Springdale School, Adopted School Coordinator Merge Memphis, Volunteer Life Choices, Volunteer Shelby County Schools Superintendent’s Leadership Team Mayor’s Advocate and Youth Recognition, Chairman Merge Memphis Homeless Shelter, Volunteer
RELIGIOUS AFFILIATIONS Real Life Ministries, Pastor Real Life Education Foundation, CEO Nationwide Bible Study, Founder Pastor Pupil Program, Facilitator Educational Tutorial Programs, Coordinator Mid-South Covenant Fellowship, President Kingdom Culture Ministries, Bishop-Designate
The Preface to the Ordinal The Holy Scriptures and ancient Christian writers make it clear that from the apostles’ time, there have been different ministries within the Church. In particular, since the time of the New Testament, three distinct orders of ordained ministers have been characteristic of Christ’s holy (universal) Church. First, there is the order of bishops who carry on the apostolic work of leading, supervising, and uniting the Church. Secondly, associated with them are the presbyters, or ordained elders, in subsequent times generally known as priests. Together with the bishops, they take part in the governance of the Church, in the carrying out of its missionary and pastoral work, and in the preaching of the Word of God and administering His holy Sacraments. Thirdly, there are deacons who assist Bishops and Elders in all of this work. It is also a special responsibility of Deacons to minister in Christ’s Name to the poor, the sick, the suffering, and the helpless. The persons who are chosen and recognized by the Church as being called by God to the ordained ministry are admitted to these sacred orders by solemn prayer and the laying on of Episcopal hands. It has been, and is, the intention and purpose of this Church to maintain and continue these three orders; and for this purpose these Services of Ordination and Consecration are appointed. No persons are allowed to exercise the offices of Bishop, Priest or Elder, or Deacon, or wear their insignia in this Church unless they are so ordained, or have already received such ordination with the laying on of hands by Bishops who are themselves duly qualified to confer Holy Orders. It is also recognized and affirmed that the threefold ministry is not the exclusive property of this portion of Christ’s universal Church, but it is a gift from God for the nurture of His people and the proclamation of His Gospel everywhere. Accordingly, the manner of ordaining in this Church is to be such as has been, and is, most generally recognized by Christian people as suitable for conferring the sacred orders of Bishop, Elder, and Deacon.
The Apostolic Apology One of the hallmarks of the Church is her timelessness and her ability to remain constant in an age when absolutes and truth are called “relative”. The Church of Jesus has received from Christ a system of government, which is vested with the apostles and, their successors, the Bishops. Bishops have been given the unique ministry of healing the Body of Christ in the earth and because of their relationship to the Lord Jesus Christ the Bishops become the spiritual progenitors of sons and daughters for the Kingdom of God. This Church is a fellowship of holiness assemblies, which has membership in the universal Body of Christ. As such, we preserve the message of Christ’s redeeming love through His atonement and we declare holiness of life to be His requirement for all men who would enter into the Kingdom of God. We preach and practice baptism in water in the Name of Jesus Christ; a personal infilling of the Holy Ghost, evidenced by “speaking with other tongues as the Spirit gives utterance”; a daily walk with the Lord in the beauty of holiness; and life after death. After this Zion was called together, we found it necessary to appoint Bishops, Overseers, Presbyters (Elders) and Deacons within this organization, and to allow them to assist the Presiding Bishop, of this Branch of Zion, over the episcopal affairs of the Church throughout the world. Never again shall the Church of Jesus Christ be chastised for not allowing men and women equal access to the work of the ministry. Never again shall we be guilty of punishing either gender, which seeks to participate in the building of the Kingdom. Indeed “there is neither male nor female (gender), bond nor free (class), Jew nor Greek (race or culture), in Christ Jesus; for we all are ONE.”
XANDRE T. BEATTY PRESIDING BISHOP AND PRIMATE The Kingdom Culture Assembly of Churches and Ministries
Worshippers are asked to stand when the procession enters the sanctuary and the sound of the Hymn of Adoration begins (“HOLY, HOLY, HOLY”), and thereafter, continue to follow the program as printed.
The Order of Worship & Consecration INTRODUCTION OF PRAISE
XTHE TRUMPET CALL & SCRIPTURE
1Kings 1:39,40 “And Zadok the priest took an horn of oil out of the tabernacle, and anointed Solomon. And they blew the trumpet; and all the people said, God save king Solomon.” And all the people came up after him, and the people piped with pipes, and rejoiced with great joy, so that the earth rent with the sound of them.
XPROCESSIONAL. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . “HOLY, HOLY, HOLY” The Thurifer The Episcopal Cross Bearer The Processional Cross Bearer The House of Overseers The Acolytes The College of Bishops The Pastors The Bishop Designate The Elders The Concelebrants The Ministers The Adjutant General The Diaconate The Chief Celebrant When all have reached their places, attention is given to the main altar. THE PEOPLE STANDING, THE PRESIDING BISHOP SAYS: Blessed be God who forgives all our sins. PEOPLE RESPOND:
His Mercy Endureth forever.
THE PRESIDING BISHOP SAYS: Almighty God, to You all hearts are open, all desires known, and from You no secrets are hid: Cleanse the thoughts of our hearts by the inspiration of Your Holy Spirit, that we may perfectly love You and and worthily magnify Your holy Name; through Jesus Christ our Lord. PEOPLE RESPOND:
Amen.
HYMN OF PRAISE “Doxolgy” (Down at the Cross). . . . . . . . . Minister Cortney Richardson Please Be Seated. XPLEASE STAND WHERE INDICATED
The Presentation The Bishops And people Sit. The Very Reverend Robert Lee Smith will publicly present the candidate by saying: “Your Grace; Bishop in the Church of God, The Kingdom Culture Assembly of Churches and Ministries., the clergy, and the people of this branch of Christ’s Universal Church, trusting in the guidance of the holy Spirit, support your appointment and ratify the College of Bishop’s appointment of Althea E. Greene to the office and dignity of Bishop Ordinary. To be admitted to the order of Bishops. We therefore ask you to lay your hands upon her and in the power of the Holy Spirit Consecrate and ordain her Bishop in the one, holy universal, and apostolic church.” The Chief Consecrator then directs the testimonials to be read: Evidence of Ordination The Certificate of Appointment The Consent of the College of Bishops The Presiding Bishop then requires the following promise from the Bishop-designate:
The Declaration In the name of God Almighty, I, Althea E. Greene chosen Bishop in the Church of God, solemnly declare that I do believe the Holy Scriptures of the Old and New Testament to be the Word of God, and to contain all things necessary to salvation; and I do solemnly promise to conform to historic biblical doctrine, holy discipline, and Christian Worship. I will serve the Church of Christ and the Kingdom Culture Assembly of Churches and Ministries with my heart, mind and soul, so help me God through Jesus Christ. The Bishop designate signs the above Declaration in the sight of all present. The witnesses add their signatures. X(All then stand.)
The Apostolic Response Brothers and Sisters in Christ Jesus, you have heard the testimony given that Althea E. Greene has been duly and lawfully appointed and elected to be a bishop of the Church of God and to serve in her respective office. You have been assured of her suitability. Nevertheless, if any of you know of any reason why we should not proceed, let it now be made known to myself or one of these two Co– Consecrators privately or forever be silent. IF NONE IS OFFERED, THE PRESIDING BISHOP SHALL CONTINUE.
XPLEASE STAND WHERE INDICATED
The Chief Celebrant Says to the People: Is it your will that we consecrate Althea E. Greene as Bishop? The People respond:
That is our will.
Chief Celebrant :
Will you uphold her in their bishopric?
The People respond:
We will.
The Chief Consecrator moves the congregation to pray, saying It is written in the Gospel of St. Luke that our Savior Christ continued the whole night in prayer before He chose and sent forth His twelve Apostles. Likewise, the apostles prayed before they appointed Matthias to be one of their number. Let us, therefore, follow their examples, and offer prayers to Almighty God before we ordain Althea E. Greene for the work to which we trust the Holy Ghost has called her. THE INVOCATION. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .The Right Reverend Matthew Dana Ray THEN SHALL BE READ THE COLLECT AND THE GOSPEL.
The Collect Almighty God who by thy Divine Providences hath appointed diverse Orders of Ministers of thy Church. And didst inspire thine Apostles, to chose to the order of Deacons the first martyr, St. Stephen, with others, mercifully behold these thy servants now called to the like office and administration: replenish them so with the truth of thy doctrine and adorn them with the innocence of life that both by word and good example they may faithfully serve thee in this office to the glory of thy holy name, and the edification of thy Church, through the merits of our Savior Jesus Christ who liveth and reigneth with thee and the Holy Ghost now and forever. Amen.
The Decalogue
THE RIGHT REVEREND TOMMY WILLIAMS THE BISHOP:
AND GOD SPOKE ALL THESE WORDS SAYING: I. “I AM THE LORD THY GOD, WHICH HATH BROUGHT THEE OUT OF THE LAND OF EGYPT, OUT OF THE HOUSE OF BONDAGE. THOU SHALT HAVE NO OTHER GODS BEFORE ME.”
RESPONSE: “LORD HAVE MERCY UPON US” II. THE BISHOP:
“THOU SHALT NOT TAKE UNTO THEE ANY GRAVEN IMAGE... THOU SHALT NOT BOW DOWN THYSELF TO THEM.”
RESPONSE: “LORD HAVE MERCY UPON US” III. THE BISHOP:
“THOU SHALT NOT TAKE THE NAME OF THE LORD, THY GOD IN VAIN.”
RESPONSE: “LORD HAVE MERCY UPON US” IV. THE BISHOP
“REMBER THE SABBATH DAY, TO KEEP IT HOLY.”
RESPONSE: “LORD HAVE MERCY UPON US, AND INCLINE OUR HEARTS TO KEEP THY LAWS,” V. THE BISHOP:
“HONOR THY FATHER AND MOTHER, THAT THY DAYS MAY BE LONG UPON THE LAND WHICH THE LORD THY GOD GIVETH THEE.”
RESPONSE: “LORD HAVE MERCY UPON US” VI. THE BISHOP:
“THOU SHALT NOT KILL”
RESPONSE: “LORD HAVE MERCY UPON US” VII. THE BISHOP:
‘THOU SHALT NOT COMMIT ADULTERY”
RESPONSE: “LORD HAVE MERCY UPON US” VIII. THE BISHOP: “THOU SHALT NOT STEAL” RESPONSE: “LORD HAVE MERCY UPON US” IX. THE BISHOP: “THOU SHALT NOT BEAR FALSE WITNESS”
RESPONSE: “LORD HAVE MERCY UPON US” X. THE BISHOP: “THOU SHALT NOT COVET” RESPONSE: “LORD, HAVE MERCY UPON US, AND INCLINE OUR HEARTS, TO KEEP THY LAWS.” THE BISHOP: AND JESUS SAID; “A NEW COMMANDMENT I GIVE UNTO YOU; THAT YE LOVE ONE ANOTHER AS I HAVE LOVED YOU.” CHORAL RESPONSE: “Draw Me Nearer”. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . The Congregation THE MINISTRY OF WORD: A Lesson from the Old Testament. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Isaiah 61:1-4 Lector: The Right Reverend Terah G. Weatherspoon The Spirit of the Lord GOD is upon me; because the LORD hath anointed me to preach good tidings unto the meek; he hath sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to them that are bound; To proclaim the acceptable year of the LORD, and the day of vengeance of our God; to comfort all that mourn; To appoint unto them that mourn in Zion, to give unto them beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness; that they might be called trees of righteousness, the planting of the LORD, that he might be glorified. 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.
Lector: The Word of the Lord. People: Thanks be to God.
A Reading from the Epistles. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1 Peter 5:1-4 Lector: The Right Reverend Terah G. Weatherspoon The elders which are among you I exhort, who am also an elder, and a witness of the sufferings of Christ, and also a partaker of the glory that shall be revealed: Feed the flock of God which is among you, taking the oversight thereof, not by constraint, but willingly; not for filthy lucre, but of a ready mind; Neither as being lords over God’s heritage, but being examples to the flock. And when the chief Shepherd shall appear, ye shall receive a crown of glory that fadeth not away.
Lector: The Word of the Lord.
People: Thanks be to God.
Gospel Herald. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . St. Luke 12:35-38 Gospeler: The Right Reverend Terah G. Weatherspoon
X(The people stand.)
Gospeler: The Holy Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ according to Luke People: Glory to you, Lord Christ! Gospeler: Let your loins be girded about, and your lights burning; And ye yourselves like unto men that wait for their lord, when he will return from the wedding; that when he cometh and knocketh, they may open unto him immediately. Blessed are those servants, whom the lord when he cometh shall find watching: verily I say unto you, that he shall gird himself, and make them to sit down to meat, and will come forth and serve them. And if he shall come in the second watch, or come in the third watch, and find them so, blessed are those servants. This is the Gospel of Jesus Christ. The People respond: Praise to the Lord Jesus Christ. (The People may be seated.) The Proffer of Oblation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . The Right Reverend Jarvys Jones Selection Presentation of Homilist. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . The Reverend Debra Reed The Homily. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . The Very Reverend Paul K. Reed New Friendship Missionary Baptist Church After the Selection, the Ordination continues with all seated, except the Bishop-Designate, who stands facing the Bishop. The Chief Consecrator addresses the Candidate:
The Examination My sister, you have been chosen by us and the people have affirmed their trust in you by acclaiming your appointment. A Bishop in God’s holy Church is called to be one with the Apostles in proclaiming Christ’s Resurrection and interpreting the Gospel, and to testify to Christ’s sovereignty as Lord of lords and King of kings.
You are called to guard the faith, unity, and discipline of the Church, to celebrate and to provide for the administration of the sacraments of the New Covenant; to ordain elders and deacons and to join in ordaining Bishops; and to be in all things a faithful pastor and wholesome example for the entire flock of Christ. With your fellow Bishops you will share in the leadership of the Church throughout the world. Your heritage is the faith of patriarchs, prophets, apostles, martyrs, and those of every generation who have looked to God in hope. Your joy will be to follow him who came, not to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many. Are you persuaded that God has called you to the office of Bishop? Answer:
I am so persuaded
Bishop:
Will you accept this appointment and fulfill this trust in obedience to Christ?
Answer:
I will obey Christ, and will serve in His Name.
Bishop:
Will you be faithful in prayer, and in the study of Holy Scripture, that you may have the mind of Christ?
Answer:
I will, for Christ is my help.
Bishop:
As a chief priest and pastor, will you encourage and support all baptized People in their gifts and ministries, nourish them from the riches of God’s Grace, pray for them without ceasing, and celebrate with them the sacraments of our redemption?
Answer:
I will, in the Name of Christ, the Shepherd and Bishop of our souls.
Bishop:
Will you seek true humility, to deal justly and kindly with your brethren And covenant pastors in the ministry and with all others over which you shall shepherd as Bishop?
Answer:
I will in the Name of Christ, seek to pastor those under my care.
Bishop:
Will you share with your fellow Bishops in the government of the whole Church; will you sustain your fellow presbyters and take counsel with them; will you guide and strengthen the deacons and all others who minister in the Church?
Answer:
I will, by the grace given me.
Bishop:
Will you be merciful to all, show compassion to the poor and strangers, and defend those who have no helper?
Answer:
I will, for the sake of Christ Jesus our Lord.
Bishop:
Will you endeavor to fashion your own life and that of your family and household according to the teaching of Christ, and therefore by a wholesome example to all?
Answer:
I will do so, by God’s grace.
Bishop:
Are you ready with faithful diligence to banish and drive away all erroneous and strange doctrines contrary to God’s Word, and to call upon and encourage others to do the same?
Answer:
I am ready, the Lord being my helper.
Bishop:
Will you boldly proclaim and interpret the Gospel of Christ, enlightening The minds and stirring up the consciences of your people?
Answer:
I will, in the power of the Spirit.
Bishop:
Will you maintain and exemplify the true wisdom that is from above, which is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, [and] easy to be entreated, full of mercy and good fruits without partiality, and without hypocrisy among all people?
Answer:
I will do so, by the help of God.
Bishop:
Will you deny all ungodliness and worldly lust and live soberly, righteously and Godly in this present world; that you may show yourself in all things an example of good works unto others, that the adversary may be ashamed, having nothing against you?
Answer:
I will do so, the Lord being my helper
Bishop:
Will you then faithfully exercise yourself in the Holy Scriptures, and call upon God by prayer for the true understanding of the same: so that you may be able by them to teach them and exhort with wholesome
Answer:
doctrine and to withstand and convince the gainsayers? I will do so, by the help of God
Bishop:
Will you seek true humility, to deal justly and kindly with your brethren And covenant pastors in the ministry and with all others over which you Shall shepherd as Bishop?
Answer:
I will in the Name of Christ, seek to pastor those under my care.
Bishop:
Will you reverently submit to them to whom the charge and government over you is committed, following with a glad mind and will their Godly admonition?
Answer:
I will endeavor to do so, the Lord being my helper (All the people stand.)
The Chief Consecrator then says: Althea E. Greene, through these promises you have committed yourself to God, to serve His Church in the office of Bishop. We therefore call upon you, chosen to be guardian of the Church’s faith, to lead us in confessing the faith. The Bishop-Designate turns to face the congregation and leads in the confession. The Bishop-designates says: I believe in One God. Then all the people say together: I believe in One God, the Father, the Almighty, Creator of Heaven and earth, of all that is, seen and unseen. We believe in one Lord, Jesus Christ. The only son of God, begotten from the Father, God from God, Light from Light, true God from true God, begotten, not made, of one being with the Father, Through Him all things were made.
For us and for our salvation He came down from heaven: By the power of the Holy Spirit.
He became incarnate from the Virgin Mary, And was made man. For our sake He was crucified under Pontius Pilate; He suffered death and was buried. On the third day He rose again in accordance with the scriptures, He ascended into heaven and is seated on the right hand of the Father. He will come again in glory to judge the living and the dead. And His kingdom will have no end. We believe in the Holy Spirit, the Lord, the giver of life, who proceeds from the Father and the son. With the Father and the Son He is worshipped and glorified. He has spoken through the prophets. We believe in one holy universal and apostolic Church. We acknowledge one baptism for the forgiveness of sins. We look for the resurrection of the dead, and life of the world to come. Amen.
X
The Rite of Consecration
The people stand, except the Bishop-Designate, who lays prostrate before the altar. The other Bishops will encircle the Designate as silent prayers are offered. The Choir leads the congregation in “Total Praise” After a period of laying prostrate the Bishop Designates will retreat to a kneeling position as the Chief Consecrator begins the laying on of hands. The Chief Consecrator then begins this prayer of Consecration or some other, according to the Holy Spirit’s leading. XPLEASE STAND WHERE INDICATED
God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, Father of mercies and God of all comfort, dwelling on high but having regard for the lowly, knowing all things before they come to pass; We give you thanks that from the beginning you have gathered and prepared a people to be heirs of the covenant of Abraham and have raised up prophets, kings, priest, and ministers, never leaving your temple unattended. We praise you also from the creation you have graciously accepted this ministry of those whom you have chosen. The Chief Consecrator and Co-Consecrators lay their hands upon the head of the BishopDesignates saying together: “Therefore, Father, make Althea E. Greene a Bishop in Your Church. Pour out upon her Your priestly Spirit, whom You bestowed upon Your beloved son, Jesus Christ, with whom He endowed the apostles, and by whom your Church is built up in every place, to the glory and unceasing praise of your Name.” As the other Bishops stand back at their places, the Chief Consecrator continues the prayer, by anointing the head, the ears, the great finger and the soles of their feet. THE PEOPLE RESPOND IN A LOUD VOICE….”AMEN”. (Please be seated.) The new Bishop is now vested according to the order of bishops:
The I nvestiture The Bishop is currently wearing the Cassock, which is the symbol of a servant; represents humility, simplicity of heart, and commitment to service. The Bishop is first and foremost a servant. The Cincture is girded about the waist and serves as a symbol of servanthood, integrity, Chastity, and “one’s commitment to a life devoted to Christ.” It is a reminder and symbol of the towel with which our Lord girded himself to wash his disciple’s feet. The Rochet is white and is a symbol of the Priesthood. It is symbolic of Aaron’s white linen ephod and is reminder to the Bishop that her role as Celebrant and Worship Leader is prominent in the total mandate for the office. The Chimere serves as a symbol of the Mandate of a Prophet. This garment is worn by the
Bishop; it signifies him as the chief Proclaimer and Defender of the Faith in the apostolic tradition in his/her jurisdiction. The Tippet symbolizes the authority of the bishop to operate in the office and capacity set forth. The tippet is embroidered with the logo and mighty seal of this Reformation and the personal and sacred seal of the Bishop respectively. It resembles the yoke of gospel and the burden of respectively. It resembles the yoke of the gospel and the burden of submission to Our Lord. The Zucchetto, patterned after the Jewish Yakama, is the head covering of the Bishop while conducting services. It is removed during moments of prayer, the reading of the Gospels and the Eucharist. It speaks of the Bishop being under the submission of the hand and will of God. The Chasuble, the descendant of the first century cloak, is an ornate circular garment with a hole in the center of the wearer’s head. It’s the garment of sacrifice and is worn by the Chief Celebrants during the Eucharist or at Holy Ordinations/Consecrations. This ceremonial garment represents strength, patience, and good will. The Symbols of the new Bishop’s office are given to them. Pectoral Cross & Chain. The Cross is made of the precious metal and layered in gold; primarily the instrument of suffering, on which Christ died and redeemed the world. The Cross is also a revealed mystery, taught by Christ when he said, “ if anyone wants to be a follower of mine, let him renounce himself and take up his cross and follow me: May you never be ashamed to confess the Faith of Christ Crucified, Risen, Ascended and Glorified. Episcopal Ring. This ring is made of the precious metal and adorned with the precious jewel of the Amethyst. The ring is the symbol of Fidelity, collegiality, son-ship and Authority of the Bishop. Thus distinguishing you as a son of the King, married to the King, and faithful to the bride of the king known as the church. The Crozier. A symbol of the Shepherds’ staff given to Moses as he was exiled from Egypt. It is the symbol of authority and strength. David declared in the scriptures “……..thy rod and thy staff they comfort me….” (Psalms 23:5).
The Bible (opened to the Gospels and held over the candidate’s head). Receive the Holy Scriptures. Feed the flock of Christ committed to your charge, guard and defend them in His truth, and be a faithful steward of His Holy Word and Sacraments.
The Presentation of the Bishop The Chief Consecrator presents new Bishop to the people. The newly consecrated Bishop then walks the length of the sanctuary while the clergy and people give their acclamation and applause in response to the consecration. The spouse and immediate family of the new Bishop may approach the altar and greet them. To all the faithful present and witnesses of this momentous occasion, we hereby decree that this servant is in fact authentic and a duly consecrated Bishop in the Lord’s Church. She is duly Consecrated and Ordained in the Episcopacy to serve in her respective office for the Lord and for this Reformation. In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, we present to you Bishop Althea E. Greene. The First official act of the New Bishop will prepare to serve The Holy Eucharist with assistance of the Consecrating Council.
The Holy Eucharist The Scripture Reading - I Corinthians 11:23-32 The Blessing of the Elements The Purification The Consecration and Distribution of the Hosts The Levitical Benediction The new Bishop is then escorted to the upper level to take her seat among the College of Bishops. In observation of the recessional, please remain at your seat until the Chief Celebrant, Concelebrants and the new Bishop have recessed.