APRIL 2022
$3.25
thechristianrecorder.com
VOLUME 171, NO. 7
APRIL 2022
ARRIVAL OF BISHOP SYLVESTER SCOTT BEAMAN IN SOUTH AFRICA By Maggie Grootboom-DeBruyn, 15th Episcopal District Field Representative
The 139th elected and consecrated bishop of the 15th District, Bishop Sylvester Scott Beaman, arrived on the morning of 7th February 2022 at 08h20 at Cape Town International Airport and was warmly received by the Cape Annual Conference and the Boland Annual Conference presiding elders, clergy, and laity. The bishop had an eventful day scheduled with the clergy before the Thanksgiving S Service organised by clergy. The service was scheduled at 6:00 p.m. SAST at the first church in the 15th District, Bethel Memorial African Methodist Episcopal Church, Hendal in C Cape Town. As a result of reduced COVID restrictions in South Africa, the church could host over 1 congregants between the two conferences that are within proximity of the mother 120 c church. In addition, the spacing accommodated members who were unable to attend the 1 th District Founders’ Day Program of the bishop in Kimberley, Northern Cape, which is 15 oover 400 miles from the Western Cape. All clergy and auxiliaries were represented and dressed in their respective regalia. The atmosphere was very jovial, and there was a good spirit as congregants were elated to meet their new bishop. Some notable highlights outside of the ...continued on p10
MODULASETULO (THE CHAIRMAN), LIVING WITH A DISABILITY By Rev. Mmakgabo G. Sepoloane, Contributing Writer
Besides being the leader of his church, the Reverend B Bantekile Jacob Sehau does not head any other c components in the church. Yet, among most of us clergy i the M.M. Mokone Memorial Annual Conference of in t 19th Episcopal District, he is affectionately referred the t as /Modulasetulo/ (Chairman) – a moniker that to o often leaves many an uninformed observer in shock.
It was thus a no-brainer that he be the one we featured in our focus for the International Day of Persons with Disabilities and South Africa’s National Disability Rights Awareness Day during the country’s Disability Awareness Month (November 3 to December 3). For 2021, the theme in South Africa was “The Year of Charlotte Manya Maxeke – Create and Realise an Inclusive Society Upholding Rights of Persons with Disabilities.”
Sehau is thus nicknamed because he is wheelchairb bound following a workplace accident in March 2011 t that saw his legs crushed and led to amputation above t knees. But instead of moping about and feeling the f himself, hi lf Sehau S h was quick to accept his lot as a person living with a disability sorry for and moved on to pursue his call to ministry. That he can be self-deprecating and somewhat immune to friendly jostling is because the 46-year-old does not take himself too seriously and has accepted his life without the use of legs.
The itinerant elder and pastor of Monakato African Methodist Episcopal (AME) Church in the Capital District, Sehau is originally from a small village called Hertzogville outside the city of Bloemfontein in the Free State. He currently lives in Tlhabane in the North West Province, where he has been working on different mines, first in construction and currently as an administrator in the engineering and planning department.
THE TRUTH IS THE LIGHT
BIDEN’S STATE OF THE UNION ADDRESS AFFIRMS WHAT WE ALREADY KNOW: HIS PROGRESSIVE AGENDA IS OVER
By Rev. Dr. Charles R. Watkins, Jr., Columnist
Based on Biblical Text: Acts 12:5b: While Peter was kept in prison, the church prayed fervently to God for him. The account found in the 12th chapter of the Acts of the Apostles is arguably one oof the most profound examples of a praying church. W We find the church caught up in a prolonged period oof prayer following their pastor’s arrest and subsequent jjailing. King Herod had ordered the arrest of the most pprominent preacher in Jerusalem and the church began tto pray.
I recently met him at his double-story home in Tlhabane, Rustenburg, not too far from the famed tourist spot, Sun City, in the North West ...continued on p8
Several ingredients, virtues, characteristics, and ppractices can be listed among the things that constitute a powerful church; however, the list has absolutely n nothing to do with the size of the building, the budget, oor the congregation. The fact of the ...continued on p2
R Report t FFrom th the AME Church in the Democratic Republic of the Congo… p3
South Berkeley Black Churches Are Building Affordable Housing on Their Properties … p6
Bethel AME Churchh iin S Setauket, t k t New York Serves Community by Operating Farm … p9
By Quardricos Driskell, Columnist
President Biden came to Capitol Hill on the 404th dday of his presidency, during perhaps the most pivotal m moment of his short tenure to deliver the State of the U Union address. According to a Washington Post-ABC N poll, President Biden’s presidential approval News rrating is at a new low, with 37 percent saying they aapprove of the job he is doing and 55 percent saying tthey disapprove. Inflation is at its zenith in four decades aand shows few signs of receding. Biden’s appointments ...continued on p2
J Jesus Did Not Forgive the Soldiers… p15
General Conference Commission Visits Cincinnati to Launch Preparations for 2024 General Conference… p19
2 | PAGE
APRIL 2022
...From The Truth p1 matter is that the Bible is full of incidents where churches with no building, no budget, and only a handful of members were powerful enough to deal with very difficult situations summoning the very physical presence of the Lord himself. A few members boldly standing up against unrighteousness can have more power than a thousand members bowing down in disobedience.
What makes up a powerful church has very little to do with buildings, budgets, and numbers. A powerful church is a Bible-believing, spirit-filled church. We could extend the description by adding that a powerful church is a witnessing church and a tithing church.
...From Biden’s p1 to the Federal Reserve are wedged
behind an increasingly obdurate Republican blockade. The COVID pandemic finally seems to be easing but faces a public rightly skeptical the virus is gone indefinitely, and there is a rapidly changing geopolitical landscape. And if his approval rating were above 40 percent, this would have been a typical State of the Union address, but it was not. In many respects, the nation and the world are balancing on a tightrope. On almost every issue raised, Biden took a position that puts him in stark contrast with his party, especially the more progressive wing of the party, and with a little over 240 days until the midterm elections when voters will render judgment on Democrats’ control of Washington, the State of the Union, in my estimation, did not move the needle. Furthermore, the American people, who are lukewarm about his presidency and unsure of how we might intervene in the Ukrainian crisis, remain unmotivated or feel deflated. So, who
The Christian Recorder
THECHRISTIANRECORDER.COM
A powerful church ought to believe in the Bible, be filled with the Holy Spirit, have a strong testimony, and embrace tithing. It is also critical to understand that we will not be a powerful church unless we are a praying church.
A praying church is a powerful church that will get God’s attention. A praying church will bring down an angel from heaven to open jailhouse doors. A praying church will paralyze prison guards, unlock handcuffs, and make heavy chains fall to the floor.
A praying church is a powerful church! The truth is that the church that spends a lot of time on its knees will have no problem standing on its feet. A powerful church spends more time on bended knee, praying for strength to stand straight and tall. Praying together, the powerful church will have no problem staying together. Churches that have powerful prayer meetings have much less need for board meetings.
A praying church is a powerful church. The question for us is simple. Do we know of any problems in our church that need prayer? Are we aware of any suffering that the power of a praying church could lift? A praying church is a powerful church. It is praying time!
among the base, or generally, did this State of the Union address excite?
Back Better by name – his chief legislative agenda, though he mentioned critical elements of the plan. It has been pretty clear that the signature package has been dormant in Congress for a while now, particularly as we turn to an election year in which passing legislation is much more difficult. However, he did mention one of the signature Democratic agendas, the Child Tax Credit: announcing raising the minimum wage to $15 an hour and extending the Child Tax Credit, raising families out of poverty. Though the monthly payments expired in December, unfortunately, there is no plan to revive them. His mentioning of immunocompromised individuals and access to therapeutics might very well be met with resistance as new COVID-19 guidelines recommend most Americans go unmasked, harkening back to last summer before the emergence of the Delta variant.
President Biden spent more time discussing the war in Ukraine than the war against voting rights at home. Some communities, especially communities of color, are engaged with law enforcement. His proclamation – “The answer is not to defund the police. The answer is to fund the police,” he said, before ad libbing: “Fund them. Fund them,” even as Gov. Kim Reynolds (RIA) in her Republican response accused Democrats of wanting to defund the police, an example of dogwhistle politics, perhaps hit against some of the president’s most critical base – young, progressive, and African American voters. This is an apparent snub of the leftist wing of the party. The unfortunate political reality is that George Floyd Justice in Policing Act, the Freedom to Vote Act, and the John Lewis Voting Rights Act are dead. Additionally, Biden did not mention Build
The Reverend Dr. Charles R. Watkins, Jr., is the pastor of James Chapel AME Church in Charleston, South Carolina.
Biden’s State of the Union speech was light on genuinely divisive issues. Towards ...continued on p3
THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER: The Christian Recorder (ISSN 1050-6039, USPS 16880) is the ofϐicial organ of the African Methodist Episcopal Church and a member of the Associated Church Press and the National Newspaper Publishers Association. Founded in 1852, it is printed monthly by the AMEC Sunday School Union, 1722 Scovel Street, Nashville, TN 37208. Periodicals Postage Paid at Nashville, TN.
POSTMASTER:
thechristianrecorder.com
ONLINE OR BY MAIL
THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER 1722 SCOVEL STREET NASHVILLE, TN 37208
Send address changes to The Christian Recorder, 1722 Scovel Street, Nashville, TN 37208. Subscription price is $36 per year. Single issues are $3.25.
Bishop David R. Daniels, Jr., Chair of the General Board Commission on Publications Rev. Dr. Roderick D. Belin, President/Publisher, AMEC Sunday School Union Mr. John Thomas III, Editor, The Christian Recorder
Ofϐice: 615.601.0450 General queries: editor@thechristianrecorder.com Submissions: articles@thechristianrecorder.com
Views expressed by the editor and/or other writers do not necessarily reϐlect the ofϐicial views of the African Methodist Episcopal Church. The Christian Recorder welcomes letters from its readers on matters of general interest. Letters must be exclusive to The Christian Recorder and must be signed, including the writer’s home address and business telephone number. No defamatory, libelous or slanderous letters will be printed; and The Christian Recorder reserves the right to reject or edit any letter or article to conform to good taste, style and space requirements. Although we are unable to acknowledge those letters we cannot publish, we appreciate the interest and value the views of those who take the time to send us their comments. Letters intended for publication should be addressed to The Christian Recorder/ Letters to the Editor, 1722 Scovel Street, Nashville, TN 37208. All photograph submissions are the property of The Christian Recorder and will not be returned.
THECHRISTIANRECORDER.COM
The Christian Recorder
APRIL 2022
PAGE | 3
17TH EPISCOPAL DISTRICT SONS OF ALLEN ELECTS NEW OFFICERS By Rev. Royd Mwandu, 17th District Field Representative
The Sons of Allen (SOA), Men in Ministry of the 17th Episcopal District, held its elective convention with the South West Zambia Conference-Copperbelt East District and Presiding Elder Amigo Mwansa as hosts. The host church was Mother Hughes AME Church Ndola under the leadership of Pastor Winford Chabala. The two-day convention was opened by Bishop David Rwhynica Daniels, Jr.’s administrative assistant, the Rev. Margaret Nkana Mwanza, on Friday, February 25, 2022. On Saturday, February 26, 2022, Bishop Daniels addressed the Men in Ministry. The bishop introduced Mr. Miller, the Connectional SOA president, who addressed the gathering on the need for men to fulfill their constitutional requirements as enshrined in The Doctrine and Discipline of the African Methodist Episcopal Church. Due to COVID-19 restrictions, only delegates from Zambia managed to attend. Here are the newly elected 17th Episcopal District SOA executive officers: President: Br. Robert Chilufya Chitenge Vice President: The Rev. D. K. Phiri Secretary: Br. James Simuyemba Correspondence Secretary: Br. Agrippa Ngwenya Treasurer: The Rev. Winsford Chabala Coordinator: Pending bishop’s appointment. ❏ ❏ ❏
...From Biden’s p2 the end of his speech, he only briefly mentioned these issues,
such as abortion, immigration reform and transgender rights, and climate change. Throughout his speech, he seemed to be trying to speak to issues dear to Republicans — and perhaps disaffected Democrats. Stylistically, he spoke over the applause, seeming to rush through his speech without any pause to allow for more extended ovation and critical points to have their moments. It felt swift even with his mention of the historic appointment of Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson, the first black woman appointed to the Supreme Court, no recognition of the landmark diversity in the judiciary, and then quickly pivoted to immigration, which he failed to lay out a comprehensive immigration plan. All things considered, President Biden affirmed what we already know - he is the epitome of white moderation - consistently appealing to the political attitudes of right-of-center Americans and small “C” conservatives who do not support him despite his efforts. Furthermore, his “Unity Agenda,” which supports needed initiatives such as opioids, cancer research, mental health, and veterans care, is more
of the same, while necessary, more of what we have heard previously. No innovation, no big legislative agenda, no haecceity, comforting and enduring vision for the country. Democrats need a winning strategy; President Biden has yet to exercise his bully pulpit fully in support of this strategy. Biden concluded: “Fellow Americans: Look, we can’t change how divided we’ve been ... but we can change how to move forward on COVID-19 and other issues that we must face together.” Regrettably, the president did not provide a framework for change moving forward. President Biden enthusiastically concluded, “Go get ‘em.” Unfortunately, I am afraid, that is precisely what the Republican Party will do - deliver a shellacking to the Democrats in November. Quardricos Bernard Driskell is an adjunct professor of legislative politics at The George Washington University Graduate School of Political Management. Follow him on Twitter @q_driskell4.
REPORT FROM THE AME CHURCH IN THE DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF THE CONGO By Rev. Mutabazi Kamutera Seraphin, 17th Episcopal District
Please do receive warm greetings from the African Methodist Episcopal Church – North Kivu, Democratic Republic of the Congo. This period of nearly over a decade of service, answering the call of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ in the African Methodist Episcopal Church (AME), has been measurably and endlessly blessed. The Spirit has helped our different local churches to grow. We have witnessed a great advancement of God’s work in North and South Kivu in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, have won souls, ministered to the needy, and empowered and equipped men, women, and children with a convertible knowledge of the Lord Jesus Christ. We thank and praise God for the souls added to our churches—new conversions and baptisms. We thank God also for the life and labor of those who have endured the hardships faced while serving the needy. The leadership of the Steward Board helped enhance the spirituality and stewardship in the church. The diligent work of the trustees facilitated all the works we have
been doing, from the work of painting the churches, providing chairs, musical instruments, finishing toilets, and much more. Organizational ministries, such as the Women’s Society Ministry, Young People’s Department, and Lay Organization, have met needs in their respective churches and surrounding communities. We remain grateful to each congregation and to all those who gave support to the ministry all these years. We thank God for the incredible work of the Holy Ghost in restoring and replenishing the ministry in the North-Kivu, D.R. Congo. Bless his holy name.
EVANGELISM AND CHURCH GROWTH DEPARTMENT In the true spirit of the AME Church class leader structure, we organized cells in churches, urging each member to belong to a cell depending on where he or she lives. So, this approach helped us to reach hundreds of people wherever ...continued on p4
4 | PAGE
APRIL 2022
The Christian Recorder
THECHRISTIANRECORDER.COM
...From Report p3
they are. Cell members meet two to three times a week; they organize visits and charity activities for nonbelievers. As a result, people have received Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior. When the number of people from the same cell increases, we study the feasibility of making it a church. Also, by using the “Jesus Film” techniques of Campus Crusade for Christ Ministry, this department showed this movie at least five times, and people received Jesus Christ as their Lord and Saviour. Many local churches were started from these showings, and the clergy members stepped in for education, edification, and teaching. We set strategies to take care of the vulnerable (widows and orphans) in the church and in different communities through the contributions of church members. We did not reach to target orphans, widows, and destitute people successfully because the church members are jobless, and it is impossible to get some contributions.
Though our churches operate on rented AME Church in Masisi South District, built on rented properties, we have managed to build shelter land. for church members under the consent of the landowner.
PROJECT AND DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT God has enabled us to create some schools though they are operating on rented properties with poor infrastructure and equipment. Some of the schools are Marry Primary and Secondary School. These schools accommodate children from different poor and vulnerable families and children born as a result of sexual So to advance the work of the Lord further, we We organized some gospel outings to Masisi Sud and ordained and appointed some servants of God Masisi Nord districts to strengthen the work of God. violence as well as unwanted pregnancies to help spread the gospel around the world.
HEALTH SECTOR
The African Methodist Episcopal Church – DRC has created a Health Center in Bukavu, South Kivu, to improve the financial situation of the church and to help the community with health services such as counselling and treatment, to name a couple, even though it operates under bad conditions, in an old building, and with outdated health equipment.
PARTNERSHIP WITH PAN AFRICAN COLLECTIVE – USA The Project and Development Department Distribution of food and other items to internally Bethsaida Health Center in Bukavu – South Kivu. displaced persons in Mugunga and Buhimba has enabled the church to partner with the Pan camps, and we visited different orphanages. African Collective – USA to help implement some projects. In July 2021, the AME Church – North Kivu spread the gospel by implementing a Food Distribution Project to victims of the May 22 volcano eruption, a project funded by the Pan African Collective – USA. The church sympathized with the victims by offering rice, beans, water, cooking oil, soap, among other staples. The African Methodist Episcopal Church – North Kivu will never forget this act of charity done by the Pan African Collective members and other contributors such as Bishop James L. Davis and the members of the 2nd Episcopal District of the African Methodist Episcopal Church for feeding these needy people. They put a smile on the faces of the beneficiaries. They have saved the lives of people both physically and psychologically.
AGRICULTURE AND LIVESTOCK PROJECT In partnership with the Pan African Collective, the African Methodist Episcopal Church – Goma, DRC created and implemented the Agriculture and Livestock Project for Vulnerable Returnees in the Masisi and Rutshuru territories. Cornerstone Trust – USA funded the project. Forty families, each of eight to ten members, have benefited from this project. Hence, in general, 320 to 400 lives have been impacted through this project. Additionally, each of the original 40 families is to give their first-born female livestock to another participant family that was not a part of the initial targeted group, which increases the impact to 640 to 800 lives. As each participant cohort repeats the action Food distribution to the victims of the of passing the first-born, the impacted lives increase exponentially. The project aimed to improve the situations of Nyiragongo volcano eruption in Goma, a the vulnerable returnees and their families, through which the beneficiaries received livestock and seeds, and they project funded by Pan African Collective. acquired new skills in cultivation and animal rearing techniques to augment their livelihood. ...continued on p5
THECHRISTIANRECORDER.COM
The Christian Recorder
APRIL 2022
PAGE | 5
...From Report p4 Repeated wars, young people forced to join rebel groups, increased orphans, abandoned children, sickness, displaced families, mass unemployment, poverty, no access to education or economic opportunities, and no constructive day-to-day engaging activities robbed vulnerable people of hope. The Weaver School is in the Goma City, North Kivu Province, in the Eastern Congo. The school is under the legal authority of the Pan African Collective – USA. The school provides quality education to the most vulnerable children and orphans who could not get an opportunity to go to school. The AMEC – DRC volunteered to help the Pan African Collective purchase and distribute hand sanitizer and chlorinated water for the Weaver Primary and Secondary school to prevent Ebola.
PARTNERSHIP BETWEEN AME CHURCH – DRC AND PAN AFRICAN COLLECTIVE The partnership between AMEC – DRC and the Pan African Collective – USA has been essential in advancing the work of the Lord and the growth of the AMEC-DRC. It has allowed the African Methodist Episcopal Church – Congo to impact many people spiritually, economically, and in other ways. Countless souls have received Jesus Christ as their Savior thanks to this partnership. The partnership has benefited the church members and Goma communities.
MEDICAL MISSION VISITS TO GOMA – D.R. CONGO The African Methodist Episcopal Church – D.R. Congo has The Rev. Weaver with AME Church pastors during received the Pan African Collective for over a decade to impact the medical mission in Goma, DRC. church members and local communities through medical mission visits led by the Rev. Dr. Jonathan L. Weaver, president of the Pan African Collective – USA. The mission included humanitarian activities, medical treatment activities, and gospel outreach to AME Churches in Goma. Through humanitarian actions, the team could visit IDP camps (Mugunga and Buhimba IDP camps) where they provided displaced people with blankets, food items, soap, and water. They also provided humanitarian aid to the vulnerable AME Church members such as widows, orphans, the elderly, and the most destitute church members. The medical team provided healthcare services to the church members, displaced people in Mugunga and Buhimba IDP camps, and church neighboring communities. At the same time, the medical team organized gospel revival outreaches in all the AME churches in Goma – Congo, and in different public places in Goma City.
Purchase of hand sanitizers and chlorinated water for the Weaver Primary and Secondary school for the Ebola response.
WEAVER PRIMARY AND SECONDARY SCHOOL – GOMA, D.R. CONGO After noticing the impact of the AME Church on the local communities through the medical missions led by Pastor Jonathan Weaver, the Congolese local government suggested creating a school named “Weaver School” to expand the presence of the African Methodist Episcopal Church in Congo and impact as many people as possible. So, in September 2015, the school was established by the late Elder KAMUTERA KULU Salomon (May his soul rest in peace!) and Pastor Seraphin Mutabazi of the African Methodist Episcopal Church – Goma, DRC. The school was named after the Rev. Jonathan Weaver, president of the Pan African Collective – USA, to honor his impact on countless lives of Congolese people during his evangelical, charitable, and medical missions in Goma, DRC. The African Methodist Episcopal Church – Eastern Congo has experienced challenges since its beginning, starting from late Elder Kamutera’s home to reaching far corners of the eastern part of the Democratic Republic of Congo. However, the worst experience happened when Bishop Wilfred Messiah divided the church by creating his own Great Lakes Conference with our church members, such as the Rev. Bamba, who r rebelled against the church leadership. F over a decade, no bishop visited the For c church; no bishop allowed us to send a report regarding the church. As a r result, we were left as orphans. God sent the Rev. Jonathan Weaver aand his medical team our way. He has always been there for us. He comforted us through his medical m mission visits yearly. He has preached in all our AME churches in Goma, organizing gospel crusades aalongside AMEC pastors in Congo. Pastor Weaver’s yearly visits to the Congo have strengthened the cchurch members’ faith, given hope to future generations of Congo, and contributed to the development oof the Congo country. Despite all the struggles we have gone through, we thank God for being with us aand leading us through all the troubles that the AME Church – DRC has experienced. We are proud aand glad to be part of the African Methodist Episcopal Church, and we hope to advance the work of G God together. Our hearts were full of joy after being informed that Bishop David R. Daniels is ...continued on p8
6 | PAGE
APRIL 2022
The Christian Recorder
THECHRISTIANRECORDER.COM
AME CHURCH COMES TO HAITI’S RESCUE After hearing about a natural disaster or tragic event, many of us are often moved to send a box of clothes, toiletries, and food. Antioch African Methodist Episcopal Church and Antioch Manor Senior Housing
in Stone Mountain, Georgia, demonstrated a tremendous gesture of love when the food pantry volunteers prepared and sent food, funds, and toiletries to Haiti after the recent earthquake and Tropical Storm S l Grace. Enclosed were the following items: Surgical gloves, plastic forks and spoons, paper plates and cups, baby wipes, soap, water bottles, toothbrushes, sanitary napkins, flashlights, can openers, diapers, batteries, first aid kits, Lysol wipes, ibuprofen, peanut butter, infant milk, dry beans, rice, protein bars, and cans of tuna. “For many Haitians, their only source of aid throughout their lives, in the absence of strong governmental institutions, has been the church,” said the Rev. Vandy Carl Simmons, senior pastor of Antioch. “I am happy that our church could be of assistance at such a devastating time.” Although Storm Grace spared them a direct hit, the torrential downpour of rain created more challenges for Haitian natives in the midst of slow assistance. Moreover, severe poverty, the pandemic, and a history of government practices have only worsened the struggles of Haiti’s 11 million people. “For the past year, COVID-19 has changed many things for all of us,” said Olu Boglin, general manager of Antioch’s food pantry. “One thing it did not change was the kindness
h people. l They Th have h l b d for f andd generosity off the labored hours to ensure that Haiti would have some assistance from our church.” The quake could not have come at a worse time for Haiti. The Caribbean nation is still traumatized over the unsolved July 7th assassination of President Jovenel Moïse and is still recovering from the calamitous earthquakes that destroyed much of the Port-au-Prince and Port de Paix areas in 2010 and 2018, respectively. “We are to love thy neighbor,” said Pastor Simmons. “The neighbor is not just next door but all over the world.” Antioch’s Mission and Vision Statement Mission Statement: Love God and God’s people in word and deed, being intentional in letting our light shine before others in order to transform our world for Jesus Christ. Vision Statement: We are committed to growing spiritually, numerically, financially, and economically as we continue to expand our territory and influence for the glory of God. ❏ ❏ ❏
SOUTH BERKELEY BLACK CHURCHES ARE BUILDING AFFORDABLE HOUSING ON THEIR PROPERTIES By Supriya Yelimeli, Berkeleyside
Historically black churches in Berkeley are building affordable housing on their properties as part of the new Adeline corridor plan, creating new units for lowincome, senior, and homeless residents. St. Paul African Methodist Episcopal Church and Ephesian Church of God in Christ are partnering with the city and Richmond-based Community Housing Development Corporation (CHDC), a housing nonprofit, to create the 52-unit St. Paul Terrace at 2024 Ashby Ave. and the 82-unit Ephesians Legacy Court at 1708 Harmon St. If the nonprofit is able to secure state SB 35 funds, CHDC will reserve 11 units at St. Paul Terrace and 20 units at Ephesians Legacy Court for people who were formerly homeless. Both projects are in the initial stages and are receiving part of a $67 million allocation from the city toward affordable housing projects from Measure O and general funds. The projects, part of ongoing discussions around gentrification and housing segregation in Berkeley, are expected to start construction in the summer. The $9.8 million St. Paul Terrace project will be built on the church’s existing worship center or multi-purpose room and parking lot for all households earning between 30% to 60% of the area median income (AMI). The Rev. Anthony Hughes at St. Paul AME said that, like the city and county, the church has a moral obligation to contribute to region-wide efforts to end the housing crisis. He said funding in this project is not specifically earmarked for a certain demographic, but adding even one unit to the overall housing stock would
help alleviate the burden on shelters and transitional housing. “I think something has to be done so that we get back to the idea that housing is a right, rather than a privilege,” said Hughes, explaining that the church congregation overwhelmingly supported the new development, even though it requires demolishing a space where many people got married, celebrated birthdays, and other special occasions. He added that the church hopes to do more outreach in the surrounding community to inform people of the plans and receive feedback. The nearly century-old Ephesian church on Alcatraz Avenue has a parking lot and a vacant building on Harmon Street that would be converted into a $13 million housing complex for seniors earning between 33% to 60% of AMI. Discussions to turn the church properties into housing began in 2020 following input from community members, and both parcels were adopted into the Adeline Corridor Plan in 2021. The projects received dozens of letters of support from members of their congregations, as well as neighbors. “It’s so important for the African American community to be able to decide … how we use [our land],” West Berkeley Councilmember Terry Taplin said at the time, commenting on the church properties. The Adeline Corridor Plan lays out a decade-long vision to reconfigure the South Berkeley neighborhood surrounding Ashby BART. It noted that while many neighborhood institutions like black churches and shops remain in the area, their congregations and patrons have been priced out of South Berkeley and North Oakland. Building more housing for the neighborhood overall is one step toward ensuring people can afford to live in Berkeley, Hughes said. Multiple church properties have partnered with the city to create housing on their properties in the last few years. All Souls Episcopal Parish broke ground on the 34unit Jordan Court, North Berkeley’s first affordable housing project in nearly 30 years, in 2020. ...continued on p7
APRIL 2022
The Christian Recorder
THECHRISTIANRECORDER.COM
PAGE | 7
JUST FOR A MOMENT: LET IT OUT By Lic. Tricia I. Thomas, Contributing Writer
Many of us have heard about the strong black woman (or strong black male) trope. It is this notion that we, as black people, have to be bigger, better, smarter, and stronger than our counterparts to get ahead in life. But, let us say, the weight of it all is that not all labor feels like a labor of love. Let us unpack the baggage that you have been carrying around. We all have a few bags, some heavier than others, some more than others, but in these bags that we carry around in our hearts and minds are things like pain, heartache, a wall that we have built to protect ourselves, guilt, shame, and disappointment. How can we as believers move forward by faith if we do not let go of the past? How can we stretch our hands out and hold to God’s unchanging hand if we are full of the baggage from the past?
that when it is our time to shine, it feels that much better. So I challenge you right now to let go. Here is the thing: This baggage, this heartache, this barrier that you are holding on to for dear life, may be blocking your blessing. Maybe because it feels good; maybe because it is comfortable or what you have been used to; maybe because you are scared of what might happen if you let go. Do not let your baggage block your blessing. Do not let the wall you built to keep out the pain, prohibit your praise. Do not let your fear overpower your faith. Let. It. Go. Now, I have never been in a hot air balloon, but I have an idea of the concept. A fire or a burner inside creates hot air inside the balloon because hot air rises. Theoretically, uninhibited, the balloon will soar to unknown heights as long as the fire is still burning. And the only thing stopping this balloon from rising is these sandbags. So, it is time to soar like a hot air balloon, my sisters and brothers. Let the Holy Ghost fire carry you to places you have never been before. But first, you have to let go of the sandbags. And with each bag you release, you get a little higher. Drop the bag of self-doubt. Let go of the bag of pain. Untie the bag of heartache. Because here is what will happen if you do not: The enemy will keep trying to hold you down. Once he knows which bag hurts you the most, he will continue thinking of
One of my favorite movie references is Disney’s Lion King. Rafiki is talking to Simba, and after Rafiki bopped Simba on the head, Simba asks, “What was that?” Rafiki responds, “It doesn’t matter; it’s in the past.” Simba, still holding on to the past, cried out, “But it still hurts,” to which Rafiki responded, “Oh yes, the past can hurt. But the way I see it, you can either run from it or learn from it.” Beloved, the past is supposed to hurt. It teaches us a lesson we need to learn, shows us what not to look for, helps us experience what it is like to be down so
ways to add more sand to it. However, if you get rid of that bag completely, he loses any control that he thought he had. Make that move. Make that change. Little changes over time create lifelong habits, and habits over time become a lifestyle. Isaiah 43 reminds us h past andd that, “At all times, we must llearn to fforget the forge ahead.” If we fail to let go of the past, it is very difficult to move forward. Let go of the bitterness and make room for the blessing. Now just like Paul said, I am not perfect. I am still carrying around some extra baggage. In fact, I tend to roll it up nice and neat, stuff it in my pocketbook, and carry it everywhere I go. One thing I have tried to do is forget what is behind me. I am not there yet, but I am striving, letting a little bit go at a time so that I can heal. So that you can heal. What we carry inside manifests itself in our outward appearance and actions. Not only must we, then, forgive those who have hurt us, but we must forgive ourselves too. So, my sister, my brother, it is time to let it go and move forward by faith. Let it out! ❏ ❏ ❏
WORSHIP – WHY AND HOW By John Wm. Roberts, ED.D., Contributing Writer
MARCH 12, 2022
has us cloaked in his grace, love, and forgiveness.
In February, I had the opportunity to make a presentation entitled Music in the African American Church to the congregation of Waterloo First United Methodist Church, Waterloo, Iowa, where I now reside. As the presentation progressed, it became a presentation focused on why and how we worship. I asked the question, “Why have we become, in many instances, so constrained in the way we worship God? Are we worried about what someone will say if we shed a tear when a song brings a memory to mind? Are we worried what the reaction will be if we say ‘Amen’ or clap our hands or stand on our feet in affirmation of God’s worship music or message?” For many, the answer to these questions is “Yes.”
How we worship is dictated, to a degree, by denomination. It should not be. As I told the participants, our religion should be experiential, not ritual. No matter what the denomination, if the spirit moves within your heart and spirit, let it move you in whatever way makes you feel closer to God. God does not compartmentalize how he loves us, forgives us, and nurtures us, so why do we compartmentalize the way we worship him? When attending sporting events, we are never shy in showing our enthusiasm for the team, the coaches, and the players. Why do we constrain ourselves when in the house of worship? We should always be loud when giving God praise.
Why do we worship God? The answer for each is individual; however, collectively, it should be about reaffirming God’s presence in our lives, his blessings he continues to bestow on each of us, even when undeserved, and the comfort in knowing, no matter what has happened, is happening, or will happen, God
...From South Berkeley p6
Why have we compartmentalized the amount of time designated to worship God? Does God not bless us 24 hours each day of our lives? Why do we only give God one or two hours, at most, to praise God? Why is it that we relegate our praise to Sunday? As the music in the church is experiential, so should worship. Two songs come to mind: Everyday Is a Day of Thanksgiving
The project also houses seniors whose income is between 20% and 60% of the median income in the area. After the building was completed, a waitlist for units closed last fall, and residents have begun moving into the building on a weekly basis, according to property manager Sam Fakiri.
existing eight-unit apartment complex and cottage on its property into affordable housing.
In September 2019, the century-old McGee Avenue Baptist Church on Stuart Street in South Berkeley secured a $1 million loan from the city to transform an
Affordable housing projects such as these will factor into the city’s plan to create nearly 9,000 housing units in the next decade to meet state housing goals.
Reprinted with permission.
The project, in partnership with the Bay Area Land Trust, was the first to tap into the city’s “small sites” program, making use of a property the church had owned since the 1970s.
and I Need Thee Every Hour. If the words are a true indication of our thankfulness and dedication to God, why do we begrudge spending an hour or two worshipping and praising his name? Why do we not praise him with all the enthusiasm we display during sporting events? God is with us 24 hours of each day! Why should we not take the time to praise him any hour of any day? Why do we worship God, and how do we worship God? Each of us has to look inward to search our hearts and souls for the answer. Do we continue to bend to society’s changing forms of worship acceptance or praise God with exuberance, reverence, and joy? When we truly know our “Why,” we can change “How.” John Wm. Roberts, ED.D., director of music/ principal musician, Lee Chapel AME Church, Auburn, Alabama, 9th Episcopal District.
8 | PAGE
APRIL 2022
The Christian Recorder
...From Modulasetulo p1 Province, to talk to him about his amazing journey of ministry as a person living with a disability. “I live on both floors and have wheelchairs on both floors. So when needed, I just hoist myself up and down the stairs using my very strong arms, and into the waiting wheelchair,” he chuckled in response to the inquiry about how he lives in a double-story house given his disability.
Sehau joined the itinerant ministry of the AME Church as a member of the Nkosi Memorial in the Capital District in 2010 and had to be presented to the District Conference in absentia by his pastor presiding elder, the Reverend L.S. Moobi, two months after his accident as he was still recovering from his injuries in the hospital and later at a rehabilitation centre.
by the Charles Rathogwa Ndou Memorial AME Church in the Vhembe District in October 2014. I remember how everyone was in awe of how he dived to get himself prostrate on the floor to “take thou authority” during the ordination worship service as presided by the then bishop of the 19th District, the Rt. Rev. Paul M. Kawimbe. There seemed to be no dry eye in the house at the time as he was helped back into his wheelchair as the Reverend B.J. Sehau. Bishop Kawimbe appointed him to his first station in Lephalale, at least 300 kkm from his home in Tlhabane. Sehau w would travel the route every weekend aand whenever necessary for worship, ppastoral care, and all District and Annual C Conference meetings when required. His achievements at the station and ccommunity include, among others, bbeing part of the interdenominational ppastors’ team in the area. Because of tthat membership, many forum and cchurch leaders invited him to preach and sspeak at different forums and churches iin the community. His presence led tto many churches in the area creating ssuitable accommodation for people with ddisabilities, such as ramps for wheelchairs.
He, however, considers himself blessed that he was admitted into the spinal unit at the rehabilitation centre where most of the patients were not able to move at will and that he was able to fully sit up. “I realised that my issues were not so bad, that it could have been worse. I resolved to make the best of my situation; I refused to be surrounded by negativity.” He remembered saying words that he believes helped him accept never being able to walk again as he felt the pain coursing through his legs just after the accident: “Bantekile Jacob Sehau, you are going to be on a wheelchair for the rest of your life.” These words became a mantra throughout his recovery journey and motivated him to adjust to this new life. On being discharged from the hospital, his next step was to ensure mobility and independence. He bought his first car, fitted with suitable hand controls and instructions on operating the controls. Sehau drove the car off the shop floor and never looked back. He proceeded to R.R. Wright Theological Seminary to continue with his studies. His first ordination as itinerant deacon was at the Annual Conference, hosted
THECHRISTIANRECORDER.COM
Sehau recounts the strengthened men’s ministry through the Sons of Allen, which saw “men talking men problems. This strengthening attracted fathers in the community and the ministry and contributed to the growth in the number of men in the church.” He managed, as well, to raise funds and source donations for building material to construct a new church building with modern fittings. His sense of humour and candid outlook on living with the disability has also become a lesson for many who interact with him to the point where one stops focusing on the wheelchair but on him as a person, pastor, and friend. Modulasetulo believes he still has much to give, and that includes being the source of encouragement for people who need that one little push to face another day because it really could have been worse. ❏ ❏ ❏
...From Report p5 the new bishop of the 17th Episcopal District. We are praying for him, that God grant him godly wisdom as he carries out this great assignment. We hereby
express our strong desire and eagerness to work under his leadership and submit all the church reports as required. We hereby exclaim that doors are open for anyone who would like to partner with us in possibly one way or another as we start this new era with new Christian ventures to impact and build the body of Christ. We welcome everyone to consider going along with us in vision and activity, so together we can reach the four corners of the world with the spreading of information on Jesus Christ, knowing that you will be rewarded by the Almighty God only (Matthew 28:18-20). Editor’s Note: This article contains excerpts from a report submitted to Bishop David R. Daniels in February 2022 after a site visit by Dr. Jonathan Weaver.
THE WOMEN’S MISSIONARY SOCIETY OF THE BOTSWANA ANNUAL CONFERENCE CELEBRATES WMS DAY OF SERVICE By Potlako Molomo, Contributing Writer
It was all smiles behind the masks, well wishes, praising God, and catching up as the Women’s Missionary Society (WMS) of the Botswana Annual Conference reminisced on the blessed hymn of the African Methodist Episcopal (AME) Church, “And Are We Yet Alive” as they met to celebrate the 2022 WMS Day of Service. This event is one of the highlights of the WMS calendar and is celebrated annually on the first Saturday of March on a rotational basis in our four areas of the conference. However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the WMS did a mini celebration in 2021 with very limited attendance, as opposed to the customary representation from the entire annual conference. Therefore, it was a breath of fresh air and reason to give thanks unto the Lord from whom all blessings flow when the mothers of the church converged again in person on 6th March 2022 to execute their mandate of the ministry in giving at Malokaganyane AME Church. In attendance were the presiding elder of the Lobatse District, the Rev. Beauty Lekone, our pastors, the Rev. Goitsemodimo Sedietso (supernumerary), the Rev. Selebaleng Gaditshwane (H.B. Senatle AME Church), the Rev. Yola Mosata (Lucas Mhere Mosata AME Church,) the Rev. Ramotantile Nkgelepang (Collins Temple AME Church), Honourable Councillor Kopo Mononi (guest speaker), and mothers from the four areas which make up the annual conference. The WMS Conference president highlighted the reason for the occasion, underscoring scripture, “blessed is the hand that giveth,” and thanked the mothers for traveling from all near and far to be part of and bear witness to the work of missions.
The WMS donated duvet covers and toiletries to three elderly women in the church. In his address, Hon. Mononi highlighted and cited the wonderful deeds and sacrifices of women in the Bible, such as Esther, Mary Magdalene, Ruth, and others. He especially noted how, throughout history, women had dedicated their time, resources, and energy, experiencing pain, protecting, loving, and caring for their children, the community, and the nation at large. He commended the WMS for this act, which he said may seem small in their eyes, but was a confirmation of Jesus’ parable of feeding the poor and taking care of the needy as found in Matthew 25:35-40. He also cited Jeremiah 29:11 and told the WMS that God had a good plan to prosper them and make them flourish beyond this act of kindness and the challenges of COVID-19. In response, Ms. Nnanantsi Lekgowe, one of the recipients, thanked the WMS for their love and gifts, which she said will go a long way to alleviating their daily needs, and prayed that God continues to bless them abundantly. The 18th Episcopal WMS president gave a vote of thanks. She commended the WMS and encouraged them to continue with their good deeds, acts of love, and perseverance during COVID-19. ❏ ❏ ❏
THECHRISTIANRECORDER.COM
The Christian Recorder
APRIL 2022
PAGE | 9
BETHEL AME CHURCH IN SETAUKET, NEW YORK SERVES COMMUNITY BY OPERATING FARM By Cynthia Shepherd, 1st Episcopal District
The Historical Bethel Hobbs Community Farm in Centereach, New York, owned by Bethel AME Church – Setauket, is the last African American-owned farm on Long Island. Now operating as a non-profit organization, it uses its 11-acres of farmland to feed Long Islanders and has been doing so for decades! In 1906 James Hobbs, his wife, and eight children moved from Macon, Georgia, to a small Long Island community known as New Village. James began farming in the area and, in 1927, purchased land which became known as Hobbs Farm. Much of the produce harvested at that time was sold to New York City markets. After his death in 1929, the family continued to work the farm, with his son Alfred Hobbs taking ownership in 1955. Alfred Hobbs farmed his property for many years and rented farmland in the surrounding area to grow specific crops. He passed up many opportunities to sell the property, hoping it would always remain a farm. When Alfred Hobbs died in 1996 at age 90, he bequeathed the farm property to the Bethel AME Church in Setauket, Long Island, where he was a member. His only stipulation was that the 11-acres of land had to remain farmland. The farm has now been renamed the Bethel Hobbs Community Farm. In 2007, Friends of Hobbs Farm was formed, which led to establishing a 501(c)(3). Today the Bethel Hobbs Community Farm is operated entirely by volunteers. Through their hard work and assistance from donors, the farm grows and harvests an average of 30,000 pounds of fresh, organically grown produce annually. This produce is then donated to local food pantries and soup kitchens on Long Island. To support the work of the farm, it also offers Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) memberships which allow members to receive a weekly share of nutritionally dense organic produce grown on the farm, harvested, and packed the same day for delivery. In addition, the farm offers educational programs, community events, and a seasonal farm stand where the community can purchase organic produce at reasonable prices. THE FARM HAS FIVE DISTINCT AREAS: • THE MEMORIAL GARDEN: Is at the front or south end of the property. It is a quiet, shaded area with flowers, beautiful greenery, and a peaceful waterfall to aid in entering the presence of God while remembering those who have passed on. • THE REVEREND GREGORY LEONARD EDUCATION GARDEN: This area hosts educational events on farming and the nutritional value of organic produce for small groups. • THE GREENHOUSE: The Greenhouse allows the farm to begin and extend its growing season during colder months. • THE GARDEN OF EPHRAIM: This garden is wheelchair accessible with beautiful, paved areas with raised planting beds. There is also street access directly into the Garden of Ephraim and a shaded area to protect from sun sensitivity. This area ensures that all who want to experience the blessings of farmland have an opportunity to do so safely. • THE FOOD PANTRY DONATION AREA: This area of the farm is the main growing area consisting of several acres of organic produce.
The Bethel Hobbs Community Farm is successful because of the selfless efforts of all the volunteers who enable the farm to fulfill its mission. Their devotion to the farm contributes to its success. As a result, the farm shines as a symbol of hope and resilience. However, we always need more help in assisting the farm with its mission to restore the land to its original use, create a permanent retreat and education center on-site, and honor the Hobbs family legacy. Bethel Hobbs Community Farm welcomes your support as we continue to “plant seeds of hope.” If you are in the area or desire to visit and plan a volunteer day, please contact Brother Larry Corbett at larrycorbett7@ optonline.net or Brother Ron Manning
at roncmanning17@gmail.com. Brother Corbett and Brother Manning are members of Bethel AME Church and on the Bethel Hobbs Community Farm Board of Directors. If you are interested in donating to assist with the work of ministry on the farm, please make your checks payable to Bethel AME Church, with Bethel Hobbs Farm in the memo. Checks can be sent to 33 Christian Avenue, Setauket, New York, or use our Cashapp $BethelSetauket, and place Bethel Hobbs Farm in the memo field. Thank you in advance for your prayerful consideration and prayers for the farms’ continued success in feeding the hungry.
Mrs. Cynthia Shepherd is the Christian Education director of Bethel AME Church, Setauket, New York.
REV. DR. EMILYGAIL DILL APPOINTED TO THE SENATE OF BERMUDA AND JUNIOR MINISTER OF NATIONAL SECURITY OF TRANSPORT On February 16, 2022, the Rev. Dr. Emilygail Dill was appointed to serve as a senator in Bermuda and as the junior minister of National Security and Transport. The Rev. Dr. Dill was educated at The Berkeley Institute and Sandys Secondary School. Her Bachelor of Arts was in English and Secondary Education from the esteemed Spelman College in Atlanta, with a minor in Music and Theater. She later obtained her Master of Divinity from the Interdenominational Theology Center in Atlanta with a concentration in Leadership Development and Pastoral Counseling. Senator Rev. Dr. Dill completed her doctorate in Leadership Development and Organization Dynamics from the UnitedTheological Seminary in Dayton, Ohio, and her Human Resources Director Certification from Cornell University. Bermuda’s Premier David Burt said, “I welcome the Rev. Dr. Emily Gail Dill to the Senate and congratulate her on her appointment as a junior minister. She has answered a call to serve at an important time in Bermuda, and I am grateful for her willingness to embark on this new facet of her already extensive public service.” She brings to her appointments as senator and junior minister considerable strengths in the arts, education, and ministry and genuine empathy for the needs of others. Her record of work and success with Bermuda’s youth through the Alternative Education programme will add to the dedicated team at the Ministry of National Security who are focused on tackling the root causes of gang violence. The Rev. Dr. Dill is a member of the National Association of Parliamentarians. She is the recent former 1st Episcopal District Women in Ministry president, dean of the Ministerial Institute of the Bermuda Annual Conference, married to Presiding Elder Rev. Howard Dill, senior pastor of Allen Temple African Methodist Episcopal Church, Sandys, Bermuda, where she serves as assistant pastor.
10 | PAGE
APRIL 2022
...From Arrival p1 program were
the salutations presented by the chaplain general. Chaplain General of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF), the Rev. Monwabisi Andrew Jamangile, the highest ranking chaplain of our church, represented the interest of the South African government. He conveyed formal greetings and a special welcome on behalf of the president of the Republic of South Africa, the Honourable Mr. Cyril Ramaphosa. He furthermore presented gifts to the bishop. Bishop Beaman performed a profound act of humility by removing his blazer, rolling up his sleeves, and getting onto the ground to wash the feet of two people unbeknownst to them. The bishop requested the Rev. William Charles Legolie III (pastor of the first church), and Br. Henry van Rhyn (Boland Conference lay president) to remove their shoes and socks. Both men were seated at the front of the altar as bishop proceeded to wash their feet just as Jesus did, as per scripture. He stripped down, looked the part of a servant, took a basin of water to wash their feet and a towel to dry their feet. This act brought the entire service to a halt and evoked so many emotions by all present. No man of the cloth so highly ranked has ever performed such a duty of service to the people. Bishop made it vividly clear that he has come to serve and work with and for the people of the 15th and that he will do so as God ordains his steps. Following the service, Bishop Beaman greeted and took photos with congregants before meeting with the clergy for dinner. Walking amongst the people after the service, the atmosphere was an expression of utter love and joy, and that had everything to do with Bishop Beaman’s powerful act. It reminded everyone that we are no greater than the next person and to love one another as the Bible teaches us. We look forward to spending the next Quadrennium with Bishop Beaman as the presiding prelate of the 15th Episcopal District. ❏ ❏ ❏
The Christian Recorder
THECHRISTIANRECORDER.COM
THECHRISTIANRECORDER.COM
The Christian Recorder
APRIL 2022
PAGE | 11
12 | PAGE
APRIL 2022
The Christian Recorder
CONGRATULATORY LISTINGS
THECHRISTIANRECORDER.COM
MARCH 2022
*Purple font connotes Episcopal Family; Red font, General Officers; and Blue font, Connectional Officers. Bishop Francine A. Brookins, 141st Elected and Consecrated Bishop of the African Methodist Episcopal Church, Presiding Prelate of the 18th Episcopal District, Is the Newly Elected Vice Chair of the Pan-Methodist Commission. Congratulatory messages can be emailed to: bishopbrookins141@gmail.com.
The Retirement Celebration for the Reverend Ernest L. Montague, Sr., Presiding Elder of the Baltimore District, Baltimore Conference, African Methodist Episcopal Church. The Baltimore District - Baltimore Conference Presiding Elder Ernest L. Montague, Sr. and First Lady Irene Montague Virtual Retirement Celebration Event Second Episcopal District African Methodist Episcopal Church
The Reverend Dr. Jonathan C. Augustine, Member of the Judicial Council of the African Methodist Episcopal Church - New Book Interview An Interview with Jay Augustine, Author of Called to Reconciliation. Called to Reconciliation: How the Church Can Cover Justice, Diversity and Inclusion, was released on February 8th by Baker Academic. It is available wherever books are sold. Go to https://www.youtube. com/watch?v=iz2B3qKb26k to listen to the interview. Congratulatory expressions can be emailed to: jayaugustine9@gmail.com, the Reverend Dr. Jonathan C. Augustine.
**CELEBRATING 44 YEARS OF MINISTRY**
“I will bless the Lord at all times; his praise shall continually be in my mouth.” To attend this virtual event, go to the link below and register: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/ WN_-_06H4UFRSG_4_HAx3NHEA. After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the webinar.
Please visit the Baltimore District website for additional information, https://www. baltimoredistrictamec.org/. Mailing address for sending congratulatory expressions: Presiding Elder Ernest L. Montague • P.O. Box 1104 • Randallstown, MD 21133. Congratulatory expressions can be emailed to Presiding Elder Ernest L. Montague @ emont. family.123@gmail.com. PRESIDING ELDER RETIREMENT CELEBRATION Celebrating 46 Years of Ministry Please join us at Empowerment Temple AME Church on Saturday, March 26, 2022, at 3:00 p.m. as we celebrate the retirement of Presiding Elder Cordell E. Hunter, Sr. and First Lady Joan Walker-Hunter. Please note that for those of you who cannot come in person, the celebration will be streamed online via our Eastern District Facebook page. https://www. facebook.com/EasternDistrictAME. Congratulatory responses can be emailed to: cordell944@aol.com.
On behalf of Publications Commission chair Bishop David R. Daniels, Jr., president/publisher of the AMEC Publishing House (Sunday School Union) the Rev. Dr. Roderick D. Belin, and editor of The Christian Recorder Mr. John Thomas III, we celebrate and applaud your achievements. “For surely I know the plans I have for you, says the Lord, plans for your welfare and not for harm, to give you a future with hope.” Jeremiah 29:11 (NRSV) To share or receive information about Connectional clergy family bereavements and congratulations, please contact the AME Church Clergy Family Information Center. Mrs. Ora L. Easley, administrator • 5981 Hitching Post Lane • Nashville, TN 37211 • 615.833.6936 (CFIC Office) • amecfic.org • facebook.com/AMECFIC.
NECROLOGY LISTINGS
MARCH 2022
*Purple font connotes Episcopal Family; Red font, General Officers; and Blue font, Connectional Officers. Mr. Carl B. Tucker,father of the Rev. Eric D. Tucker, pastor of St. Luke AMEC, Highland Park, MI, Fourth Episcopal District Dr. Chiquita Fye,medical director of the AMEC Connectional Health Commission (1988-2000) The Reverend Mardell Ermaleen StoutJohnson,the mother of Dr. Jewell Stout, Jr., also the sister of Bishop Robert Vaughn Webster, Ret., 110th elected and consecrated bishop of the AMEC; Dr. Gladys D.W. Motley, and Mrs. Alma Jean Johnson The Reverend Pleasant L. Hailey, Jr., a retired itinerant elder in the First Episcopal District of the African Methodist Episcopal Church, a former president of the Connectional Council of the AMEC, the father of the Rev. Micah C. T. Sims, pastor, Greater Grant Memorial AMEC, Eleventh Episcopal District and Christopher Hailey The Presiding Elder Alonzo Middleton, retired. Presiding Elder Middleton retired from the Mt. Pleasant District, Palmetto Annual Conference of the Seventh Episcopal District of the AMEC
The Reverend Kenneth Lee Aiken was the pastor of Greater Howard Chapel AMEC, Mt. Pleasant District, Palmetto Annual Conference of the Seventh Episcopal District of the African Methodist Episcopal Church Mr. Michael Vann Jones, brother of Sis. Sandra Smith, wife of the Rev. Quinten Smith, Sr., pastor of Greater Payne Chapel AMEC, Memphis, Tennessee and the fiancé of Mr. Jones, Ms. Jane Davenport Mrs. Gwendolyn Denise Rakestraw Owens, wife of the Rev. Dr. Ronald L. Owens, pastor of Mount Olive AMEC, Annapolis, Maryland, Washington Annual Conference of the Second Episcopal District Sister Winnie Ruth Davis Jennings, the wife of retired Presiding Elder Johnny E. Jennings of the North and South Houston District in the Texas Conférence of the Tenth Episcopal District; serving many years as first lady of the presiding elder district and was a life member of the Women’s Missionary Society of the African Methodist Episcopal Church
The Reverend Marvin Transue Glenn Jr.,the loving husband of the Rev. Dr. Barbara Glenn (retired itinerant elder) former pastor of First AMEC, Gaithersburg, Maryland where the Rev. Marvin Transue Glenn, Jr. served as the associate pastor; Washington Annual Conference, Second Episcopal District, AME Church Mrs. Lillie Mae Franklin, mother of the Rev. Dorothy Hightower and mother-inlove of the Rev. Vincent Hightower, pastor of St. Mary-Bethlehem AMEC, Sweeny, TX in the Texas Conference, Tenth Episcopal District; she was an active member of Shiloh AMEC in Galveston, Texas and a life member of the Women’s Missionary Society of the AMEC The Reverend William H. Alston, a retired pastor of the AMEC, and also he had retired as a human resources/personnel officer at the Charleston Naval Shipyard and served as the 1st mayor of Awendaw from 1992-2009; he was a member of Union (Awendaw) AMEC, Mt. Pleasant District, Palmetto Annual Conference of the Seventh Episcopal ...continued on p13
THECHRISTIANRECORDER.COM ...From Necrology p12
The Christian Recorder
District
Mr. Anthony Powe,the father of the Rev. Ronald Jackson, itinerant elder, and associate at New Greater Bethel AME Church, Jackson, TN, Thirteenth Episcopal District Sis. Jerolene Brown Mosley, was the wife of the late Rev. Dr. Archibald Mosley who served as a presiding elder and as pastor of several churches in the Fourth Episcopal District District; she was an educator in the Detroit public schools for over 20 years and was accomplished pianist and organist Mrs. Sharonda Nathan Miller,the daughter of the Rev. Priscilla Wilson, pastor of Pleasant Grove AMEC in Seale, Alabama in the Northeast Alabama Annual Conference, the Ninth Episcopal District Mrs. Ira Lee Williams Vasser, mother of the Rev. Delphine L. Vasser, pastor of Lee Chapel AMEC, Dallas, TX in the North Texas Conference, Tenth Episcopal District Mr. George F. Sydnor, father of consultant Wanda Smith and father-in-law of presiding elder Stanley G. Smith and cousin of the Rev. Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor III, retired 20th editor of The Christian Recorder; Mr. George Sydnor was a member of Bethel AME Church, Bryn Mawr, PA, First Episcopal District The Reverend Margaret McCready, local elder at Bethel AMEC Norwalk, Connecticut, the Rev. Dr. Richard Wesley Clarke, pastor, First Episcopal District Brother “John” Samuel Holloway, Sr., the beloved father of the Rev. Calvin E. Holloway, pastor of Mt. Olive AMEC, Monticello, Florida, of the Eleventh Episcopal District, and the father-in-love of first lady, Sis. Patricia Holloway Little Miss Ashanti Oshorn, the beloved first great granddaughter of the Rev. Willie J. Brown, pastor and first lady, the Rev. Susan J. Brown of Hopewell AME Church, Havana, Florida, Eleventh Episcopal District Ms. Jacqueline L. (Smith) Robinson,daughter of the late presiding elder Richard D. Smith, Sr., Illinois Conference-North District and Mrs. Reatha L. Smith, Illinois Conference WMS life member and the sister of Ms. Ileta F. Smith, Illinois Conference WMS president, Fourth Episcopal District Mrs. Clara Elizabeth Irvin, mother of the Rev. Carolyn Elizabeth Irvin Brailsford, Episcopal supervisor of the Nineteenth District and mother-in-love of the Right Rev. Ronnie Elijah Brailsford, Sr., presiding prelate, Nineteenth Episcopal District; Mother Irvin, as she was affectionately called, was a beloved church mother, grandmother, and great grandmother as well as an incredible mother to seven children Mrs. Dorothy H. Doctor,the mother of the Rev. Harvey Doctor, pastor of Pine Grove (Manning) AMEC, Santee District, Central Annual Conference of the Seventh Episcopal District of the AME Church Condolences to the bereaved are expressed on behalf of Publications Commission chair Bishop David R. Daniels, Jr., president/publisher of the AMEC Publishing House (Sunday School Union) the Rev. Roderick D. Belin, and editor of The Christian Recorder, Mr. John Thomas III. “Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.” Matthew 5:4 (NRSV) To share or receive information about Connectional clergy family bereavements and congratulations, please contact the AME Church Clergy Family Information Center. Mrs. Ora L. Easley, administrator • 5981 Hitching Post Lane • Nashville, TN 37211 • 615.833.6936 (CFIC Office) • amecfic.org •facebook.com/AMECFIC ❏ ❏ ❏
APRIL 2022
PAGE | 13
14 | PAGE
APRIL 2022
The Christian Recorder
THECHRISTIANRECORDER.COM
SEE ANSWERS ON PAGE 24
DOWN ACROSS 1. ___ was the son of Boaz by Ruth. 3. Jacob described ___ as being “unstable as water.” 5. __ is the subject of the greatest and most startling miracle of the gospel story. 8. ___ went from pit to palace and from rags to riches. He was a youthful dreamer and his dreams came true. 9. ___ was born after the murder of Abel. 11. ___was the second son of Moses and Zipporah to whom his father gave this name as a momento of his gratitude to God.
1. ____ ran away from his master and came into contact with Paul, who led him to Christ. 2. ___ was an able administrator. He conducted the Jewish exiles back to Jerusalem in peace and safety. 4. ___, the son of Abinoam, a Naphtalite, who with Deborah, defeated Sisera the leader of the Cannaanites. 6. ___ was hesitant in accepting the disciples’ story of the Resurrection of Christ. 7. ___ was courageous and persevered when the other spies became discouraged. 8. The dreadful description of ___ tied to his name like a label, is that “he made Israel to sin.” 10. ___died thirty-one years short of a millennium.
14. The disciple, __ was chosen by lot to succeed Judas Iscariot as an apostle.
12. ___ was visited by the angel, Gabriel as he was ministering in his turn in the Temple.
17. ___ failed to exercise the proper authority of a parent over his children.
13. ___, the great spostle to the Gentiles, whose original name was Saul.
18. _____ , one time Galilean fisherman, an early disciple and apostle of Jesus Christ.
14. ___ reported the plot on the king’s life.
20. ___ would have taken Sarah, Abraham’s wife, into his harem, but learning that she was the wife of another, returned her uninjured. 21. ___ was one of the best kings who ever sat upon the throne of Judah. He was the son and successor of Ahaz. 22. ___ was Ruth’s first husband who died inMoab. 23. Joshua is always spoken of as “the son of ___.”
15. ___ narrowly escaped judgement. He lost everything, his wife was turned into a pillar of salt. 16. ___ the first martyr of the Christian Church was stoned to death. 17. Approaching Job in a courteous, yet cold manner, ___ sought to prove that all calamity is judgement upon sin. 19. ___ was threashing wheat for his farmerfather when the call came to him to rise and become the deliverer of his nation.
The Christian Recorder
THECHRISTIANRECORDER.COM
APRIL 2022
PAGE | 15
JESUS DID NOT FORGIVE THE SOLDIERS By Rev. Renita Green, Columnist
I have had the amazing opportunity to be an inaugural John Robert Lewis fellow at the Faith and Politics Institute. For four days, we gathered in Alabama, traveling to key locations, hearing stories of those who fought the good fight. Many presenters told one consistent story of Representative John Lewis forgiving George Wallace. I have been thinking a lot about forgiveness, particularly in this season of Lent. Often, I think about the grace and mercy I have received in my own life—spiritually through Christ and personally through others whom I have offended and harmed along this journey. Forgiveness feels like hope—a second chance to do better, to be better. Extending forgiveness involves grace—as in, giving undeserved gifts of compassion, expectation, understanding, and so much more. The more aware I am that I have received undeserved gifts, the more natural it has felt to be a giver of such to others. It is actually quite liberating to be free of the feeling that I need to punish a person for his or her harm to me or others. Most of the time, the person who harmed me simply has responded or acted from ignorance or personal pain and brokenness. Forgiving—extending grace—feels hopeful. It is also freeing to believe, to really believe, that when a person harms me intentionally, he or she has actually harmed God. As such, there is nothing I could do, even if I tried, to punish such a deed—that is God’s business. I think about this when I consider Jesus on the cross looking to heaven, calling out, “Father, forgive them, for they know not what they are doing” (Luke 23:34 NRSV). Jesus taught us to forgive one another; however, he did not say to the soldiers, “I forgive you.” Jesus did not extend grace for harm done to God.
humans are—or should be—absolved of their sins. It is important to understand that Lewis’ forgiveness to Wallace was that of a man to a man—not on behalf of all who were harmed and not to all who harmed. Lewis’ forgiveness also did not extend into the future, nor does it absolve white people of our continued complicity in systemic white supremacy.
While on the pilgrimage, each time I heard the story of Representative Lewis’s forgiveness to Wallace, I also heard an audible, subtle, collective exhale. Considering the vast majority of those present were white people, concerns about the meaning of the exhale ruminated in my spirit and mind. The concern I have is that white people felt collectively absolved of the sins of whiteness through Lewis’ extension of forgiveness to Wallace.
Scripture teaches us that we must believe, confess, and repent to be born again—forgiven.
Lewis forgave Wallace—Lewis did not forgive the sins against God. Lewis’ forgiveness to Wallace does not signal that those who participate in egregious and heinous acts against
The agents of white supremacy, systemic racism, and all forms of whiteness are sinners who ultimately can only be forgiven by God—just like the soldiers who crucified Jesus.
We can apply the following process to those complicit with (benefiting from) systemic sins: Believe that “the system” is sinful and that we are complicit either by our actions, acceptance of, or silence about the harms. Confess that we benefit from the systems embedded in society’s structure, which has created perpetual harm for black and indigenous people in America (and across the world). “Black Lives Matter” is a confessional statement for
those who believe. Repent of our being to compel a change in our doing. Repentance is not a feeling like remorse. Repentance is a change in being—gaining knowledge, wisdom, skill, and competency change what we do—to stop harm and begin repair.
Belief brings one to either guilt or remorse, which leads to confession, which leads to repentance. Guilt is feeling embarrassed about being exposed for participating in sin and is characterized by the desire to clean up one’s name. Acknowledging sin from a place of guilt is, generally speaking, to avoid, stop, or lessen the punishment. Remorse is an expression of a sorrowful heart—sorrow over the harm of the sin. Remorse ultimately leads to repentance—a change of behavior— stopping harm and starting the repair. Guilt centers the sinner. Remorse centers the ones harmed by the sin. The only way to overcome evil is with good. For example, we overcome evil policing practices with police reform. We overcome mass incarceration with abolition. We overcome the schoolto-prison pipeline with investment in education for black and indigenous students, teachers, schools, communities,
families, and policy reforms that are too numerous to list. Representative John Lewis forgave George Wallace. To be clear, this does not indicate that God forgave Wallace— he appears to have confessed without repenting, from guilt, not remorse. Wallace had years to do better, to be better—to live a repented life. We cannot know if he had peace with God as he made his way from his natural to eternal life. We do know, however, he did not do all the good he could have done while here—we know trees by their fruits. Jesus did not forgive the soldiers, the Jews, or the Romans for their crimes against God. Likewise, Lewis did not forgive Wallace for his crimes against God. The forgiveness of a human extended to a human is for the humans. The forgiveness of God extended to a human is for the kingdom. This passion season, as we reflect on the suffering of Jesus, let us also meditate on the gift of forgiveness. This precious gift is not an item for a shelf to be admired—it is fuel to empower us as we practice ongoing repentance, stopping harm, and beginning repair. Believe, confess, repent—for the kingdom of God is at hand. ❏ ❏ ❏
ST. LUKE AFRICAN METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH ST. CROIX, U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS CELEBRATES ITS 102ND ANNIVERSARY St. Luke African Methodist Episcopal Church—St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands celebrates its 102nd Anniversary on Sunday, March 20, 2022. Guest preacher, the Reverend Dr. Keith Donaldson D. Lawrence, director of the Doctor of Ministry Program at Payne Theological Seminary in Wilberforce, Ohio.
years (the Rev. Dr. Vincent Gordon was the first native son). Pastor Mulley is married to Elect Lady Cliaunjel, and they are blessed with a daughter, Genesis.
On Sunday, March 20, 2022, members and friends of St. Luke African Methodist Episcopal (AME) Church are invited to join our pastor, the Rev. Dr. Jermaine Mulley, in our sanctuary to offer praise and thanksgiving to our great and merciful God for his sustaining grace and boundless mercies over our 102 years of existence. Unfortunately, the COVID-19 pandemic canceled our elaborate plans to celebrate the 100th Anniversary. So, here we are, two years later, grateful to God that none of our members died due to COVID; we are alive to see each other’s faces! Glory and praise unto Jesus for his redeeming grace.
Episcopal Church due to the Episcopal Bishop’s demands that Pastor Barrow’s preaching and teaching not include references to the socio-economic and other negative impacts of slavery and racism upon the members of the congregation. These “churchless” wanderers found themselves worshipping under a tamarind tree in Grove Place until David Hamilton Jackson, a local freedom fighter, recommended that they seek to be connected to the AME Church in America. Mr. Jackson and the Labor Union were also instrumental in providing the land upon which the current sanctuary is located.
On March 20, 1920, two years after the pandemic of 1918, former Holy Cross Episcopal Church members, led by Pastor Reginald Grant Barrow, were accepted into the African Methodist Episcopal Church in the United States. They had walked out of Holy Cross
Over our 102 years of service, ten pastors have provided spiritual leadership to the St. Luke AME Church family. Our current pastor, the Rev. Dr. Jermaine Mulley, is the second “son of St. Croix soil” to be privileged to serve for the past three and a half
The Reverend Dr. Keith Donaldson D. Lawrence, who hails from the island nation of Trinidad, will deliver our anniversary message. He was called to ministry and ordained in the AME Church at the youthful age of 18. He relocated to the United States to further his education and has earned his Bachelor of Arts in Religion and Philosophy, Master of Divinity, and Doctor of Ministry. He currently serves as the director of the Doctor of Ministry Program at Payne Theological Seminary in Wilberforce, Ohio, and was recently appointed as the pastor of First African Methodist Episcopal Church located at 2046 Richard Allen Lane SE, Atlanta, GA 30316, where he and his wife continue to follow God’s call to win souls for the kingdom. Dr. Lawrence will also perform a Doctoral robing ceremony to celebrate Pastor ...continued on p28
16 | PAGE
APRIL 2022
The Christian Recorder
THECHRISTIANRECORDER.COM
ECUMENICALNEWS
LENT CALLS US TO PRAYER, FASTING, SACRIFICE, AND JUSTICE By Rev. Dr. Angelique Walker-Smith
“Go, gather all the Jews to be found in Susa, and hold a fast on my behalf, and neither eat nor drink for three days, night or day. I and my maids will also fast as you do. After that I will go to the king, though it is against the law; and if I perish, I perish.” Esther 4:16 NRSV
International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination, inspired by the events in Sharpeville, South Africa, in 1960. Both are occasions that remind us of past and present sacrifices.
Around 479 B.C., Esther, a teenage Hebrew girl—who later became the queen of Persia—called her Hebrew community to prayer and fasting. Following this, she called on her government to do no harm to her community, knowing that this action could lead to her own demise. Esther’s call reminds us of our ongoing duty to pray and fast for justice.
Bread for the World recognizes the inequities experienced by women and by people affected by racism as hunger issues and matters for prayer and fasting. But Bread is also committed to action to address this. Bread’s legislative agenda of advocating for global nutrition and preparing for the reauthorization of the Farm Bill and the Global Food Security Act includes a lens of gender and racial equity. Go to our website to learn more about how you can be involved.
In 1960, South Africans called on their government to abolish pass laws requiring black South Africans over the age of 16 to carry a passbook at all times. Sixty-nine of them were killed, and the police wounded more than 180 in the black township of Sharpeville, including some 50 women and children. Many were people of faith. It was one of the first and most violent demonstrations against apartheid in South Africa.
We close with this a devotional Lenten prayer excerpt from “In Times Like These … A Pan African Christian Devotional for Public Policy Engagement,” written by Father Daniel Wafik Habib of the Coptic Orthodox Church:
In 2020, New York Times journalists Larry Buchanan, Quoctrung Bui, and Jugal K. Patel (2020) reported that the Black Lives Matter protests on June 6, 2020, marked the largest movement in U S. history. Since then, this decentralized movement— with primary leadership of women of African descent—has become global and was nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize in 2021. Many members of the movement are people of faith.
O Lord…There are divisive and distracting worldly windows…let us bring our hearts, broken and humbled…let us bring our minds wholly redirected by your Holy Spirit to the throne of Christ. Bring us to that table where all may find a place. For all the races of humanity can be found in your garden, where each of us is one of your beloved flowers. Amen.
In the church year, we are invited this month to a season of prayer and fasting— and of sacrifice. March is also Women’s History Month—and March 21 is the
Angelique Walker-Smith is senior associate for Pan African and Orthodox Church engagement at Bread for the World.
PRISON MINISTRY OUTREACH AT ST. JOHN AME HUNTSVILLE By Brother Bobby J. Adkins II
The St. John African Methodist Episcopal Church family, represented by the Prison Ministry, partnered with the Alabama Non-Violent Offenders Organization (ANVOO) and local non-profits to provide Christmas 2021 gifts for the impacted families. Sixty-five families in the greater Huntsville area received winter essentials, such as coats, hats, and gloves. Over 200 individuals benefitted from the benevolence of the St. John AME family and the blessings that God had bestowed upon them. In addition to the winter essentials, families received $25.00 gift cards. Like the Christmas 2020 event, drive-through locations were set up at the Alabama Non-Violent Offenders Organization (ANVOO) headquarters, located within the United Way building on Andrew Jackson Boulevard, Huntsville, Alabama. The other sites were the Richard Shower Center on Blue Spring Road and the Huntsville Parole and Probation Day Reporting Center (DRC). Many thanks to the individuals responsible for providing access to the facilities and parking to support this ministry event. With the Omicron COVID variant disrupting many indoor activities, all praise to God for allowing access to these safe and blessed events. The St. John AME family was a blessing to the community, and the benevolence shown was on display and greatly appreciated by all recipients. As Jesus said in the Gospel of Matthew 25:40, “Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you’ve also done it for me.” If members are interested in supporting the Prison Ministry, please contact Brother Bobby Adkins at bjadkins@gmail.com. Also, if there is a desire to give to Prison Ministry activities, please designate funds to the Prison Ministry via online giving or in person. About ANVOO: The Mission of Alabama Non-Violent Offenders Organization assists those seeking to regain their place in society by connecting them to resources and services to reach their full potential as productive members within their families and community. Call (256) 288-3175, visit the ANVOO website at https://www.anvoo.org, or visit the ANVOO Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/office.anvoohsv. ANVOO started after one of the founders undertook the process of having a criminal record expunged in Connecticut and discovered that it was a complicated and often costly process. The founder realized that other non-violent felons would face the same obstacles. So, he decided to start an organization that informed non-violent felons how to apply on their own to achieve the restoration of their voting rights, pardons, and expungement of their records. Since incorporation, ANVOO has put together materials to provide to community organizations, churches, educational groups, and businesses about ANVOO’s accomplishments. Thanks again, St. John AME family, for blessing those in need. All glory be to God! ❏ ❏ ❏
The Christian Recorder
THECHRISTIANRECORDER.COM
APRIL 2022
PAGE | 17
AME CHURCH OPENS NEW CONGREGATION IN COMPTON, CALIFORNIA By 2urbangirls
St. James African Methodist Episcopal (AME) Church will open its new Compton, California location on Sunday, March 13, 2022. Compton native, Pastor Nicolette Birdsong, will head the church at 601 West Rosecrans Ave. The first service will be held at 10:00 a.m., and dignitaries from the faith-based community are scheduled to attend, including Bishop Clement W. Fugh, presiding prelate of the 5th Episcopal District of the AME Church. This church opening is historic for the city of Compton as an AME denomination church has not opened there in over 30 years. “Although I haven’t been a resident of Compton for quite some time, I can honestly say I never left,” said Birdsong. “Since I was born and raised here, I have a large portion of my family who still reside in the city. Now that I’m a resident again, it feels good to be home.” Her deep roots in the city made it an ideal location to open the church. “Like many of my classmates at Roosevelt Junior High School, I came from a broken home, but we weren’t just raised in our homes, we were raised in our neighbor’s homes, too, and I never forgot that and have always been blessed and grateful for it,” said Birdsong. The business community supports the Compton native returning and opening her church in the community. “The Compton Chamber is elated to have Pastor
Nicolette Birdsong come back to her roots here in Compton to fulfill a two-fold purpose,” stated Dr. Lestean Johnson, president, Compton Chamber. “She’s not only returning to continue building up the community through faith-based services and outreach to others but also to build affordable housing for the community she was born and raised in. This is an exciting time for the city of Compton and the churches who will be fortunate to be a part of this project.” Birdsong explained that the strong sense of ti bbuilding ildi on andd community in Compton is what St. James wants to continue providing for families in need of affordable housing. “Our next goal is to focus on providing assistance to the families through affordable housing initiatives,” said Birdsong. “LOGOS Development is excited about supporting Pastor Birdsong and the St. James AME Church Team as they seek to do God’s work in Compton. A ministry of community empowerment,” said Pastor Martin Porter. Reprinted with permission.
LEAVING COVID-19 BEHIND FOR THE NEW YEAR. THAT’S NOT POSSIBLE. By James B. Ewers, Jr., Ed.D.
Happy New Year to you and your family! This ageless expression has been with us for many years. According to reports, the New Year was originally celebrated on March 25th. Then, the Gregorian Calendar replaced the Julian calendar, changing the formula for calculating leap years. As a result, the beginning of the legal New Year shifted from March 25th to January 1st. So here we are in 2022, ready to begin new plans and new dreams. Some years back, like many of you, I made some resolutions. Things that I would and would not do. Maybe unlike you, my resolutions only lasted for one week. In my defense, I had good intentions. Yet, as I am now squarely in the fourth quarter of my life and trying to get to overtime, watching people pass away in my generation is a bit sobering. We should not take life at any age for granted. As a young citizen, I probably took my everyday existence for granted. As a Christian, I have always known that we have what I call an “earthly lease.” However, as a young adult, I always assumed that my lease would be renewed. Perhaps I am on a month-to-month lease. Thankfully, I have celebrated many birthdays. The keys for me have not been the gifts, ice cream, and cake. Do not get me wrong; I am appreciative of them. However,
my blessings have been that I have pretty good health, and I still have my wits about me. Aging brings on health challenges, both physical and mental. My advice is that whatever quarter of life you are in, guard it carefully. To be more specific, watch what you put in your body and the company you keep because bad stuff and questionable people might mean an early exit. Our 2021 and 2022 started the same way. We still have the Coronavirus. Spikes have occurred recently with the Delta and Omicron variants. No matter how we spin this news story, it is not good. Twenty-four-hour flash sales, parades, and celebrations cannot negate that we are in the biggest health crisis of our lives. The numbers are numbing, and the statistics are frightening. COVID-19 has taken over the world. We cannot pretend it does not exist. Not wearing a mask when in public puts your own life at risk. If you are going to be a part of a gathering, you better have some health and safety guidelines. In fact, if you are in charge of ...continued on p28
NOTHING BUT THE TRUTH By Rev. Dr. Maxine Thomas, Columnist
“And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.” John 8:32 Did you know that Satan is the father of lies? Yes, and it is his job to deceive us, confuse us, and destroy us utterly. The Bible says Satan is roaming to and fro seeking whom he may devour. Satan is your enemy, and he wants to kill you. He wants to kill your hopes and dreams. He wants to break your spirit. He wants to do you in. Maybe “Shoe-Shine” told you that you could not make it on your own. And as ragged as he treats you, he has convinced you that nobody else wants you, that you are no good, that you are ugly as ugly is ugly. And that you are nothing, nobody, and that he is the only one who will tolerate you. Maybe that is not your story, but you know a sister who lives this day in and day out. My friend, the first place that Satan targets is our mind. For Satan knows that if he can get us to believe a lie, we will continue to live in the bondage of sin. But, Sis, you are not “only” human! That is a lie from the devil! You are a spirit, you live in a body, and you have the soul. Yes, in this flesh, you will stumble now and then. But, remember, you are not only human. The Bible says, And ye shall know the truth. Beloved, God wants you to know the truth of his Word. When was the last time you thought about giving up on life or going back to your former way of life before you knew Christ? You do not have to give up! You are on the winning team, and the battle has already been won! Act like you know that your Big Brother Jesus Christ whipped the devil over 2000 years ago! You do not have to jump every time the devil says, “Boo!” He is a defeated foe. He is under your feet. In Christ Jesus, you are more than a conqueror (Romans 8:37)! If God be for you, who can be against you! You are healed by the blood of the
lamb! Your sickness has been nailed to the cross of Christ! Hallelujah! When
you know the truth, you will not fall for a lie! You will not pray foolish prayers asking God to give you somebody else’s husband or ask God to do the supernatural when you have not done your part in participating in your healing! When you know the truth, you will pray until times get better! Then, you will hold on and hold out! You will walk together, children, and not get weary declaring: I know who I am. I am a blood-washed, born-again child of God! I have been baptized! I am a new woman
in Christ Jesus! I am free to be all that God has called me to be! I’m free to live in the present and not in the past! I am free to speak words that heal and not hurt! I’m free to love and to be loved! Hallelujah! I am free! And I know my Redeemer lives! Exhale This is the season for going deeper in my understanding of God’s good and perfect will for my life. I exhale misconceived notions and pretense, and I receive the revelation knowledge of God. ❏ ❏ ❏
18 | PAGE
APRIL 2022
The Christian Recorder
THECHRISTIANRECORDER.COM
CONNECTIONALNEWS
REPORT FROM THE MARCH GENERAL BOARD TCR Staff
On March 4, 2022, the General Board convened virtually to complete the work outlined in resolutions presented in the December and January General Board meetings under the leadership of Bishop Paul Kawimbe, president of the General Board, and Bishop E. Anne Henning Byfield, president of the Council of Bishops. Bishop Kawimbe called the meeting to order at 11:00 a.m., and Senior Bishop Adam J. Richardson and Bishop Byfield led the body in extended exhortations. Each encouraged all present to remain encouraged and to trust the processes in place to respond to the current situation of the Department of Retirement Services. Dr. James F. Miller, executive director of the Department of Retirement Services, shared a comprehensive report and indicated that thanks to the General Board’s January actions, the Department was able to make disbursements of required minimum distributions, hardship requests, and full policy surrenders. He also indicated that while the minimum insurance payments for participants had been received, more consistency is needed in how the Episcopal districts transmit the information to the Department.
Commission Investment Committee chair, Presiding Elder Troy Thomas (13), updated the Board on requests for authorized proposals for new retirement investment accounts. Commission Stewardship chair, Dr. Reginald F. Blount (4), gave an update on receiving a planning grant from the Lily Endowment to help establish a Department of Stewardship. Commission co-chair, Bishop Marvin C. Zanders II, expressed his appreciation for the Commission’s work and the AME Church’s continued patience and understanding. Next, the Commission on Statistics and Finance presented its recommendations. Chair of the Commission, Bishop Samuel L. Green, Sr., gave an overview of the forthcoming presentations. Commission Feasibility Committee chair, Dr. John F. McCormick (10), presented the proposals to address the shortfall in the Department of Retirement Services. After analyzing the alternatives, the Committee recommended to the General Board an immediate liquidation of $1 million in liquid assets with 25% of the General Budget transferred immediately and 25% annually until the Annuity Fund has been restored. The Commission defines restoration as all participant
contributions plus 1.5% interest. The Department of Retirement Services will hire an actuary to tabulate the value of the contributions. Commission Implementation Committee chair, Mr. Jerry Turner (4), shared the process to recapitalize the legacy retirement fund with adjustments to the component budgets beginning August 1, 2022. The General Board approved the report from the Statistics and Finance Commission. In addition to the above-named proposals, the question of legal accountability was raised, to which Bishop Byfield assured the body that the ongoing investigation will reveal with whom accountability lies. After discussion, the General Board approved a moratorium on mandatory payments into the retirement plan pending a declaratory decision from the Judicial Council and withdrew consideration of the promissory note from the January meeting. The meeting was adjourned with prayer by Bishop Frank Madison Reid III. The next scheduled session of the General Board will be in June in Atlanta, Georgia. ❏ ❏ ❏
CONNECTIONAL DAY OF PRAYER: POWER BELONGS TO GOD By Rev. Gregory C. Nettles, 12th Episcopal District
“But we have this treasure in clay jars so that it may be made clear that this extraordinary power belongs to God and does not come from us.” 2 Corinthians 4:7 (NRSV) In their book We Have This Ministry-The Heart of the Pastor’s Vocation, Samuel D. Proctor and Gardner C. Taylor write about the importance of the pastor as an intercessor. One of the scriptures the Rev. Dr. Samuel Proctor uses is 2 Corinthians 4:7. “Rejoice in the Lord always, again I will say, Rejoice. Let your gentleness be known to everyone. The Lord is near. Do not worry about anything, but in everything, by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” (Phil. 4:4-7) In his book Methodist Polity, written in 1884, Bishop Henry McNeal Turner asks a question: What is the church of Christ? The answer: the visible church of Christ is a congregation of faithful men and women, in which the pure word of God is preached, and the sacraments duly admonished, according to Christ’s ordinance, in all those things that of necessity are requisite to the same. The visible church coming together in a sacred place annually on April 13 invites the power of God through prayer, supplication, and thanksgiving to meet us corporately and individually. According to Bishop Turner, the visible church is “organization,
faith in Christ our Savior, a living ministry; plans for perpetuation and ordinances of divine service. The church is visible as far only as men and women see it; it is invisible as it is known by God.” The visible church is those we see, love, live with, and engage with daily. All who profess and call themselves Christians, having been baptized in the name of Christ, are members of the visible church, but only those who are sincere believers are members of the invisible church. Through prayer, the visible and invisible church, in a spirit of unity, invites God’s power to create an atmosphere of metamorphic change. Transfiguration takes place in the particular geographical area of impartation through prayer. According to Bishop Turner, when the visible and invisible are linked and in cadence, they are known as “the Church Militant,” which is engaged in constant warfare against the world, the flesh, and the devil, and in that respect, is distinguished from the “Church Triumphant” introduced in Ephesians 6:10-12. Our treasure in earthen vessels, I will describe as the Holy Spirit, which belongs to God, produces rejoicing or praise to God from the Word of God. While praying, we are in a position to receive; we are having a conversation with Almighty God. The “Church Triumphant,” those who have gone on before us, the great cloud of witnesses, and those whose robes have been washed in the blood of the Lamb are reminding us through the memory of how they made it over, through, and out!
Through prayer, those kneeling in St. George Methodist Episcopal Church received the power to walk out because of maltreatment from Christian folks. Their prayers of faith led them to start Bethel Church in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, in 1787 and build it in 1793. The Rev. Richard Allen and fifteen men (with women who were not listed) believed power belongs to God. These are now, along with others, in the Church Triumphant, are the shoulders and soldiers we have stood on since April 11, 1816. The prayers of the visible and invisible church will sustain us until Jesus Christ’s return. Our prayers lead us to have the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding and will guard our hearts and our minds in Christ Jesus. The power that comes from God through the power of the Holy Spirit will allow us to maintain and sustain during these perilous times of stress, trauma, and trials. When we gather 206 years after the first General Conference, on April 13, we come with a spirit of expectancy and knowing the same God will meet us just as God met the group as they marched to Zion. So let us march to Zion on April 13, 2022, the Connectional Day of Prayer! Let us march on ‘til victory is won!
Rev. Gregory C. Nettles is the 12th Episcopal District and Sons of Allen district coordinator and the pastor of Bethel AMEC, Camden, Arkansas.
THECHRISTIANRECORDER.COM
The Christian Recorder
APRIL 2022
PAGE | 19
CONNECTIONAL DAY OF PRAYER: WHAT IS PRAYER? By Paulette Coleman, Ph.D., Retired General Officer
At a very early age, we learned the bedtime prayer: Now I lay me down to sleep, I pray the Lord my soul to keep. If I should die before I wake, I pray the Lord my soul to take. AMEN From there, we graduated to the Lord’s Prayer. As we grew and matured in our faith, the importance of prayer in our lives intensified. For many, prayer was a source of solace and comfort. For some, it was a joyful opportunity to celebrate the goodness of an amazing God. For others of us, prayer was rejected and abandoned as useless. With these various attitudes towards prayer, let us briefly examine prayer. Prayer is talking with God! It is a form of deliberate and authentic communication with our creator. Prayer is a uniquely human experience; no other being communicates with his/her creator. Talking with God and spending time in prayer with God draws us closer to God! Communicating with God is a two-way street. A critical element of prayer is talking to and speaking with God. Simultaneously, praying also demands that we listen and actually hear God. According to Andrew Murray, a 19th-century preacher, prayer is not a monologue but a dialogue. God’s voice in response to mine is its most essential part. Rev. Murray paraphrased this same sentiment when he said, “Answered prayer is the interchange of love between the Father and his child.” Prayer is essential to the life of a Christian. The word prayer in various forms appears some 700 times in the King James Version of the Bible. Following are some selected scriptures reminding us why we pray and how we pray.
PRAY BELIEVING GOD WILL ANSWER Mark 11:24
PRAY FOR RESULTS James 5:14-16 (NIV)
Are any among you sick? They should call for the elders of the church and have them pray over them, anointing them with oil in the name of the Lord. 15 The prayer of faith will save the sick, and the Lord will raise them up; and anyone who has committed sins will be forgiven. 16 Therefore confess your sins to one another, and pray for one another, so that you may be healed. The prayer of the righteous is powerful and effective. 14
So, I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours.
PRAY WITH ASSURANCE ABOUT EVERYTHING Philippians 4:6-7
Do not worry about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. 7 And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. 6
PERSEVERE IN PRAYER
1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 (NIV)
Rejoice always, 17 pray without ceasing, 18 give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. 16
Grow and increase your prayer life, as we get ready for April 13, 2022 — The African Methodist Episcopal Church Connectional Day of Prayer! —
GENERAL CONFERENCE COMMISSION VISITS CINCINNATI TO LAUNCH PREPARATIONS FOR 2024 GENERAL CONFERENCE On March 16, 2021, a delegation from the AME Church General Conference Commission visited Cincinnati, Ohio to begin preparations for the 2024 General Conference. Hosted by the Duke Energy Convention Center and Visit Cincy, the delegation met with local political and business leaders and toured the facility. The delegation included Senior Bishop Adam J. Richardson, Jr., Bishop E. Earl McCloud, Jr., Bishop Clement W. Fugh, General Secretary/CIO Dr. Jeffery B. Cooper, Sr., and Treasurer/CFO Mr. Marcus T. Henderson, Sr. Clergy and lay leaders from the Third Episcopal District also were present in their capacity as the Host District. “Many of our members could not attend last year’s General Conference, and we know that they are enthusiastically looking forward to coming to our once every four-year family reunion,” stated Bishop James L. Davis, chair of the General Conference Commission. At the 2016 General Conference in Philadelphia, over 25,000 persons were in attendance with an estimated economic impact of $38 million dollars on area businesses. The AME General Conference is the largest minority convention brought to the city to date and the church is especially committed to employing minority contractors. Also attending the meeting were representatives from the Greater Cincinnati / Northern Kentucky African American Chamber of Commerce. Bishop Davis stated, “It is significant that the church has a special interest and is reaching out to bless those communities that often do L-R: Mr. Jason Dunn, Sr. (VP, Diversity Sales not have the opportunity to get a piece of the economic pie… We look to involve minority contractors in every and Inclusion, Visit Cincy), Ric Booth (general aspect of our meeting, from transportation to food and beverage to decorations. “ manager, Duke Energy Convention Center), Dr. Cooper, Mr. Henderson, Bishop Fugh, Cincinatti previously hosted the General Conference in 1856, 1964, and 2000. Senior Bishop Richardson, Bishop Davis, Julie Bishop Davis closed his opening remarks by saying. “The family of God will be coming out in record numbers Calvert (president, Visit Cincy), Mr. Eric Kearney for the first time since the pandemic…We have come here to hear a word from the Lord as we struggle with (president, Greater Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky theological issues, governance, polity, social, economic, political, and other unprecedented issues for a new day. African American Chamber of Commerce), CINCINNATI, WE’RE ON OUR WAY!” ❏ ❏ ❏ Bishop McCloud. CONNECTIONALNEWS
20 | PAGE
APRIL 2022
The Christian Recorder
THECHRISTIANRECORDER.COM
THECHRISTIANRECORDER.COM
The Christian Recorder
APRIL 2022
PAGE | 21
22 | PAGE
APRIL 2022
The Christian Recorder
THECHRISTIANRECORDER.COM
THECHRISTIANRECORDER.COM
The Christian Recorder
APRIL 2022
PAGE | 23
24 | PAGE
APRIL 2022
The Christian Recorder
THECHRISTIANRECORDER.COM
THECHRISTIANRECORDER.COM
The Christian Recorder
APRIL 2022
PAGE | 25
— TRANSITIONS — Presiding Elder Thabo Herman Francis Gow Senatle (1956-2022)
The Rev. Thabo Senatle was born on 16 June 1956 at Brandfort, Free State. He was the fourth child of the late Bishop Herold Ben Senatle and Supervisor Maramanyana Anna Senatle. He started his primary school in Odendaalsrus and continued with high school education in Mariasdal secondary school at Tweespruit. He then furthered his studies in the United States and graduated from Wilberforce University in Ohio. Upon returning to South Africa, he pursued entrepreneurial ventures. He then returned to the United States and enrolled in theological studies at the Interdenominational Center (ITC) in Atlanta, obtaining his Master of Divinity. Before answering the call to the vocational ministry, the Rev. Thabo Senatle was employed by then Bloemfontein Municipality. He later started his own business and viz Chicken Licken Franchise and Mama’s Kitchen Fast Food Outlet in Rocklands, Bloemfontein. His passion for business led to later opening Bucha Internet Services Café and Print House. He oversaw the design and installation of tombstones; he oversaw this division until his untimely death. As a minister in the African Methodist Episcopal (AME) Church, he was assigned to the following circuits: 2001 O.L. Sherman, Vereeniging while lecturing at R. R. Wright Theological Seminary, 2002 Trinity AME Church, Evaton in Gauteng, 2011 Ebenezer in Edenburg Free State, and 2012-2019 D.G. Ming Virginia Free State At the 2019 Annual Conference held at Mt. Pisgah AME Church, Bethlem Free State, he was elevated to presiding elder and assigned to the Goldfields District. In 2002 he entered into holy matrimony with Maggy Senatle. He was blessed with two sons: the late Tumelo and Herold Senatle. He leaves behind his wife Maggy, a son, two granddaughters: Mogomotsi and Basetsana; brother Pitso, and sister Kelebogile. Robala Ka Kagisho Motshweneng
OBITUARY OF THE LATE REV. MOKHELE JEREMIAH MOKHATSI, JNR.
The Reverend Mkhele Jeremiah Mokhatsi, Jnr. was born in Makwassie on the 20 February 1973 to the late Mokhele Jeremiah Mokhatsi Snr and Olimba Bekker Mokhatsi. He attended his primary education at Phogole Primary in Makwassie. Then, he proceeded to Moqhaka High School in Sebokeng in the Vaal area, where he matriculated. After matric, he enrolled at Lekwa Technical College in Vereeniging, where he obtained N6 in Fitting and Turning. He was then called to the itinerant ministry of the African Methodist Episcopal Church in the year of the Lord 1996 and was admitted to the East Annual Conference. The following year he proceeded to R.R. Wright Theological Seminary and obtained the Diploma in Theology after three years of training. He married Magdeline Keister in 2000, and God blessed them with three children: Mathabo, Hlonolofatso, and Precious. The late Rev. M.J. Mokhatsi, Jnr. was assigned to the following charges in the West Annual Conference: T.M.G. Seate Memorial – Mareetsane, William Monnamme Letsapa – Kraaipan, Baber – Ming Temple – Itsoseng (where he built a sanctuary at Lombaardslagte), A.K. Senatle Chapel – Chriatiana, and Mabote Memorial – Wolmaranstad. He further rendered his services as a manager at Lewis Furnisher Store in Bloemhof. The Rev. M. J. Mokhatsi, Jnr. was also in a business of a scholar transporter. He was once elected the president of the West Annual Conference A.C.E. League. The Late M. J. Mokhatsi, Jnr. served the Lichtenburg District as the A.C.E. League president until his untimely death. The Rev. M. J. Mokhatsi, Jnr. has been called to the higher service on 30 January 2022. He is survived by his sister Ouma, wife Magdeline “Simongos,” children Mathabo, Hlonolofatso, and Precious, a grandchild, and a son-in-law. Robala Ka Kgotso Motaung!
A TRIBUTE TO REV. DR. ALONZO MIDDLETON By Bishop Ronnie Elijah Brailsford We celebrated the life and legacy of Presiding Elder Rev. Dr. Alonzo Middleton today! Dr. Middleton was my P.E. when I accepted my calling to the ordained ministry. He licensed me to preach on January 20, 1980, at Liberty Hill African Methodist Episcopal Church. He was a family friend, and we became friends, especially when I returned home to South Carolina in 1992. He was forever pouring into the lives of others. He was a mentor to clergy and laity. He was an of so many of us. inspirer, an encourager, a promoter, and a cultivator of men and women. He touched the lives In 1996 at the General Conference, he said, “Dr. Brailsford, watch this General Conference very closely.” He spoke 20 years into my future. It became prophetic. He said, “You will be a bishop in the church one day. But remember this, you must be selected before you will be elected.” He said, “Someone on the bench must want you to be on it before you [are] elected to it.” I lived to experience his words. The promotion comes from God, as the people push you and a bishop or bishops pull you to be elected. He was the first person to mention to me about serving on the Episcopal Committee; later, I served on it. He was the first person to mention to me about serving on the General Board; later, I served on it. Each opportunity became a part of my preparation to serve in my present capacity as a bishop which he spoke prophetically 20 years before I was elected. (I was not even considering it at that time, but he saw it!) Bishop Daniels and I visited him on Thursday, February 24, the day of his 91st birthday in the Campbell Veteran Nursing Home. He was weak but lifted his head when we identified ourselves and, in true AME style, responded, “Yes, sir, bishop!” It took great effort, but being P.E. Middleton, he responded. We sang Happy Birthday to him and had prayer. It was a God-ordained visit for him and more so for us. Today, we celebrated his life and legacy. A great man has departed. Many of us are the better because he came our way. We are better laypersons, lay leaders, pastors, presiding elders, general officers, and even bishops because there lived a man named Alonzo Middleton. To God be the glory! We give God thanks and praise for this faithful, committed, dedicated Christian soldier who has transitioned from labor to heavenly reward. So long, dear friend. May your soul rest in the eternal peace of God.
Presiding Elder Alonzo Middleton (1931-2022)
The Reverend Dr. Alonzo Middleton was born in Charleston, South Carolina, on February 24, 1931, to Phoebe Roper, who preceded him in death. His upbringing was credited to the loving support and discipline rendered by his loving mother, extended family, and village. As a youngster, he would gather his playmates and preach to them. The Rev. Middleton was a product of The Immaculate Conception High School (Charleston, South Carolina) and a graduate of Allen University (Columbia, South Carolina). He held honorary doctorates from Allen University and Monrovia University. He served in the United States Army during the Korean War and received an honorable discharge in August 1953. The Rev. Middleton was blessed with two loving and caring sisters, Margaret Jenkins and Miriam Heyward, who both preceded him in death. The Rev. Middleton was an effective leader and communicator of God’s words. He took his commission seriously and was traditionally called upon by bishops he served to read the Great Commission, Matthew 28:18-20, prior to the making of appointments at the end of the Annual Conference. He was known for his practical teaching methods and his words of wisdom which helped others to apply the teachings of Jesus in their daily lives. He had more than four decades of teaching, preaching, and counseling. He has given spiritual and inspiration servant leadership to numerous clergy persons, laypersons, and churches throughout South Carolina and beyond. The Rev. Middleton was instrumental in merging three struggling congregations in the Mount Pleasant District of the South Carolina Annual Conference: St. Phillip AME, St. Barnabas AME, and St. Paul AME, to form Progressive AME Church. A committee of persons from the three congregations voted unanimously to rename the project Greater Middleton Chapel AME Church in honor of his contributions to the work. The Rev. Middleton was licensed to preach in 1949 at Morris Brown AME Church (Charleston, South Carolina). He also held membership at Greater Middleton Chapel AME Church and was an honorary member of Greater Trinity AME Church. He pastored in the Columbia and Central conferences. He was appointed as a presiding elder in 1966. He served as presiding elder in the Central, South Carolina, and Palmetto annual conferences of the 7th Episcopal District and was acknowledged as the senior presiding elder of the 7th Episcopal District. Upon his retirement, he continued to preach the gospel to those he met along life’s journey until his health became a challenge. He moved to Spartanburg, South Carolina, with his daughter thereafter. The Rev. Middleton departed this life on March 1, 2022. Affectionately known as “Dad, Grandpa, or Pops,” he leaves to cherish his memory: his beloved daughter, Patricia Johnson; devoted grandchildren, Jennifer Johnson-Lawrence (Justin) and Kevin Johnson; his loving great-grandchildren Aspen Padilla and Karter Johnson; nephews Allen Jenkins and James Heyward; nieces Lucretia Danner and Lavern Heyward-Walls; an abundance of other relatives and friends and four caring proteges, the Rev. Jeannine Smalls, Kathy Rouse-Burns, Patricia G. Parker, and Shirly Jenkins-Mcpherson who supported and cared for his wellbeing throughout his ministry until he answered the Master’s call. We must all remember his motto: “Know who you are and whose you are!” ❏ ❏ ❏
26 | PAGE
APRIL 2022
The Christian Recorder
THECHRISTIANRECORDER.COM
THECHRISTIANRECORDER.COM
The Christian Recorder
APRIL 2022
PAGE | 27
28 | PAGE
APRIL 2022
The Christian Recorder
THECHRISTIANRECORDER.COM
EDITORIAL
TIME AFTER TIME: THE EMMETT TILL ANTILYNCHING ACT AND WHITE PEOPLE’S TIME By D’Weston Haywood, Columnist
From election cycles to legislation, politics is often a race against time. Yet, just as often, time is raced. Indeed, many are familiar with the colloquial and comedic expression, poking fun at black people’s alleged resistance to the discipline of time that produces a seemingly routine and unavoidable tardiness on their part (in)famously known as “colored people’s time.” But less familiar is what might be called “white people’s time,” possibly because it lacks a name as charged, notorious, and convincing as its counterpart. That this phenomenon has a less recognizable name is also because its sloth-like, piecemeal pace has been more successful at normalizing itself and mediating time, especially through American politics. The recent but long-overdue passage of the Emmett Till Antilynching Act illustrates this. On March 7, 2022, the Senate overwhelmingly passed the Emmett Till Antilynching Act after it also received overwhelming D’Weston Haywood support in the House on February 28, 2022. Introduced by Illinois Congressman Bobby Rush, the bill makes lynching a federal hate Guest Editiorial crime while honoring Emmett Till, the fourteen-year-old black boy from Chicago, whose lynching in 1955 helped launch the modern Civil Rights Movement. After over a century of anti-lynching activism, stretching back to the 1890s and led by journalist Ida B. Wells, on through the NAACP’s campaigns in the 1910s to the 1930s, to the Dyer Anti-Lynching Bill, first proposed in 1918, and as many as 200 unsuccessful attempts, not to mention the scores of lynchings that continued apace in the interim, the bill will finally reach the president’s desk. The bill’s passage is momentous, to be sure, especially given vigilante violence against black people that has only increased from the killing of Trayvon Martin to Ahmaud Arbery. Still, that the bill passed, following a century-long campaign that met defeat time after time in the face of obstructive political forces, such as filibusters, illustrates that an urgent law to protect the lives of black Americans from wanton violence was for over a century subordinated to white people’s time. Thus, white people’s time tends to move in a
100-year interval, particularly against black people’s legitimate demands for racial equality and citizenship rights. Martin Luther King, among others, pointed out this fact in his 1963 I Have a Dream speech, stating then that “one hundred years later, the Negro still is not free.” He emphasized this again in his Letter from a Birmingham Jail that his activism was never “well timed according to the timetable of those who have not suffered unduly from the disease of segregation.” Indeed, we have settled on a nomenclature comprised
...From St. Luke p15
Mulley’s completion of his Doctor of Ministry from Payne Theological Seminary. Payne, an AME Church institution of higher education, is the oldest freestanding African American seminary in the United States. Dr. Mulley’s degree concentration was Biblical, Political, and Social Ethics. St. Luke is located at 28 Grove Place, Frederiksted. The service will begin at 11:00 ...From Leaving p17 the event, you owe it
to your guests to have some safety checks. If they do not like them, send them the YouTube video of the event. According to Politico, there are some telling assertions out here. First, one out of every hundred Americans 65
and older have died from COVID-19. Second, the U.S. will hit one million deaths in the Spring. Third, at this time, only 33% of Americans have received a booster shot. Fourth, even though President Biden ordered a half-billion COVID-19 tests to send to people across the country, when ABC News’ Anchor,
of terms like “filibuster,” “red tape,” “bureaucracy,” and “politics,” for example, to mask this fact, instantiate white people’s time, and then normalize it. Yet, again, white people’s time mediates time, moving the clock at a glacial pace or, when necessary, accelerating it exponentially, some 100 years ahead. Hence, while the Emmett Till Antilynching Act was over a century in the making, legislation against broader voting rights and Critical Race Theory was passed with lightning speed. ❏ ❏ ❏
a.m. It will be live-streamed via Facebook and YouTube at St. Luke AME Church-St. Croix. To be a blessing in your giving, you may send your contributions via Givelify: St. Luke AME Church - St. Croix, or PayPal: Stlukeame340. For more information, please contact Pastor Mulley at 340-277-0501. ❏ ❏ ❏ David Muir, asked President Biden last week about testing, the president said, “Nothing’s been good enough.” The refrain has been the same regarding this illness. America needs to mask up, social distance, and wash our hands. More people need to receive this
message and act upon it. We are in a dark period right now. Nevertheless, let us hope that the New Year shines the bright light of hope and healing. As believers, let us go into our quiet places and say a prayer that God will answer our effectual fervent prayers. ❏ ❏ ❏
THIRD DISTRICT YPDer NIA KILLINS IS A NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF HOME BUILDERS RESIDENTIAL CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT COMPETITION WINNER! By Amber Tillman, 3rd Episcopal District
Third District YPDer Nia Killins is a member of Quinn Chapel African Methodist Episcopal Church in Forest Park, Ohio, where the Rev. Dr. Jermaine D. Covington serves as her pastor in the Ohio South Ohio Conference. She is the daughter of Robert and Elodie Killins. Nia is a Construction Science and Management student at Tuskegee University and recently competed in the National Builders Home/ Science Competition in Orlando, Florida. Universities were given 120 acres of land in Salina, Texas, and were required to identify an opportunity for a large homebuilder to develop the property, build homes, and produce a return on investment. Tuskegee’s team created a development from start to finish, which included market analysis, site design, product development, estimation, structure, and marketing. It included Construction Science, Engineering, Material Science, and Marketing. Tuskegee University was not only the first Historically Black College and University (HBCU) to place in the top five but also the first HBCU to win this competition. Nia was one of the team members who presented a proposal to convince the judges that they had a viable project that would meet financial and organizational goals. Since the competition, Nia has been contacted by several companies, including
Skanska, a Fortune 500 Company and one of the 10th largest construction companies globally, for an internship as a field engineer. She also received an intern invitation from the vice president of Drees Home Construction Headquarters in Washington, District of Columbia, and an invitation from the vice president, Chief Inclusion and Diversity officer at Messer Construction. Nia had an offer with DPR Construction as a project engineer last summer in Dallas, Texas. Under the leadership of Bishop Errenous E. McCloud, Jr. and Episcopal Supervisor Patricia RussellMcCloud, Esq., the Third Episcopal District is pleased to share this exceptional news, noteworthy accomplishment, and stellar achievement by one of our YPD’ers. Contributing to this article are: Amber Tillman, Ohio South Ohio Conference YPD Director Bria Taylor, Ohio South Ohio Conference YPD President Sheila Floyd, Third District YPD Director Andrew Coleman III, Third District YPD President
