OCTOBER 2021
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VOLUME 171, NO. 1
OCTOBER 2021
CHICAGO STREET RENAMED IN HONOR OF PRESIDING ELDER ALBERT D. TYSON III On August 14, 2021, scores of people gathered on the front lawn of St. Stephen African Methodist Episcopal (AME) Church to commemorate the legacy of Presiding Elder Albert D. Tyson, III through the ceremonial renaming of a section of West Washington Boulevard as “Presiding Elder Albert D. Tyson III Way.” Tyson, pastor of St. Stephen from 1985-2011 and a wellrespected Chicago community activist, died in 2019. At his death, he served as the presiding elder of the North District of the Chicago Annual Conference and the president of the Connectional Presiding Elders Council. Originally planned for 2020, the ...continued on p6
THE VIRTUAL CHURCH – RENEWED, RENEWED REVIVED, REVIVED AND READY In December 2019, the novel virus known as coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) was identified in Wuhan, China. By March 2020, the World Health Organization declared COVID-19 a pandemic, and the world braced for one of the deadliest pandemics in history. No one kknew what to expect or how this pandemic would impact our daily lives and routines. Life aand church as we knew it changed! In the midst of this pandemic, Bishop James Levert Davis, the presiding prelate of the S Second Episcopal District of the African Methodist Episcopal Church, decided to renew C Christ Our Redeemer African Methodist Episcopal Church (CORAMEC), Washington, D D.C., as a 100% virtual church. Presiding Elder Ronald E. Braxton recommended that B Brothers Gilbert A. Ruffin, Jr. and James C. Turner, Jr. be assigned to lead CORAMEC aafter discussing this new approach to church ministry with their pastor, the Rev. Dr. G Grainger Browning, Jr. of Ebenezer AME Church, Fort Washington, Maryland. At the time o of this assignment in July 2020, it was believed that CORAMEC was the first AME Church o of its kind. Although other AME churches across the world would have to rely on the vvirtual church format going forward to maintain their ministry successfully, CORAMEC w would remain 100% virtual, having been renewed in the shadow of the ...continued on p2
THE GRACE TO ACCEPT CHANGE By John Wm. Roberts, ED.D., Contributing Writer
REIMAGINING MINISTRY: A COVID COLLABORATION
The words of the song are, “A wonderful change has come over me.” To those of us who’ve served and are serving as directors of music, at times of self-reflection, we must ask ourselves: “Have we gracefully accepted the changes i worship music?” For some of us, the answer is No! in W Why? Change is the most normal stage of growth, p physically, emotionally, and spiritually. As a church musician for over 60 years and a d director of music for over 50 years, I have not always b been graceful in accepting change. Having started my m music career in the era of hymns and call/response g gospel, it has been difficult to embrace the change; h however, I had to realize change means growth, and m mission was to help the music ministry grow. There my w a time when instrumentation,...continued on p12 was
Y God, You, G d and the New Normal… p3
Wh Your When Y Opponent Also Loves God: Discerning the Correct Path… p9
What Do Young People Local Agreement eement Want?” Dialogue in the Strengthens Minority 21st Century Church… Student Participation in STEM… p17 p14
The opportunity to reopen the d doors of the church is one that m many African Methodist Episcopal (A (AME) pastors have awaited for over a year. Many of our AME family h have returned to the sanctuary, but th there are still congregations that r remain virtual. In our reimagination o the church, returning to what was of is not an option. Hybrid models, s smaller congregations, masks, social d distancing, increased social justice p preaching, political and global a awareness all enter ...continued on p2
Opening Pandora’s Box: Larry Elder & the Fight for Reparations… p21
The 19th Episcopal District Women’s Missionary Society Holds “A Woman of Firsts” Celebration in Honour of Charlotte Mannya Maxeke… p24
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OCTOBER 2021
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...From Reimagining p1 the new African Methodist Episcopal Church. On Sunday, August 1, 2021, three churches took the first steps towards “church” 17 months into COVID. The First District, New York Conference’s own Bethel Freeport AME Church, Morris Brown AME Church, and Salem AME Church. Roslyn collaborated under the mentorship of the Rev. Stephen Michael Lewis of Bethel Freeport AME Church to reenter the church building. Under the leadership of Presiding Elder Jo-an L. Owings, the Jamaica Long Island District has sought creative, communal, and connectional ways to reopen our doors for the people of God. From district meetings and trainings to local church workshops on faith, education led the way for pastors to return to the pulpit slowly but surely. This partnership of churches is the outgrowth of the recent appointments of two of the Rev. Lewis’ ministerial team, the Rev. Tyra L. Frazier, the pastor of Morris Brown AME Church, and the Rev. Omotayo Cole Cineus, the pastor of Salem AME Church, Roslyn, following the New York Annual Conference by Bishop Gregory G. M. Ingram, the former presiding prelate. The service began at Bethel Freeport AME Church’s regular time of 9:30 a.m. following weeks of preparation
of all three congregations. The churches promoted the reopening during their individual services, on social media, and through outreach. Each also continued virtually, offering members the option of participating through Zoom/Facebook. Current COVID-19 precautions were discussed and practiced, including social distancing of members, ministers, and choir. The Rev. Jessica C. Mitchem, Bethel’s executive minister, and its head ushers took the lead in ensuring safe practices were implemented and adhered to for all in attendance. Our virtual community could see the disinfecting of microphones between each usage, the use of disposable microphone covers for each person, and the use of hand sanitizer throughout the service (including communion). These steps to provide a safe environment for those in attendance while prayerfully developing the trust of our virtual community have set in motion options for the current day church under global and health circumstances (a freedom provided to the AME Church in our Articles of Faith). The Rev. Cole Cineus’ greeting of Salem AME Church included a quick recap of their Saturday outdoor prayer service. The Rev. Frazier’s announcements filled the room with worship and praise while thanking the Morris Brown congregation for Friends and Family Day. Both
events included all three churches participating. This collaboration offered all members the opportunity to come to the reopening service. The Rev. Lewis offered the following three considerations in her sermon entitled, “The Fullness of Christ”: the work of the ministry, the unity of the faith, and growing in Christ. Bethel’s pastor called for the “accountability of the believer” as it relates to our next steps in reopening, reclaiming, and remuneration. We had a high time in the Lord as the culminating act of communion with all pastors and clergy. Elder Owings, leading as chief celebrant, emphasized exponentially the two souls who acknowledged Jesus Christ through salvation and affiliation following the sermon. In 2020, we were charged to reimagine the church by now-retired Bishop Gregory Ingram, and now in 2021, we will create and execute the dreams and visions God has given the people under the leadership of our current Presiding Prelate Bishop Julius McAllister. We look forward to seeing what God will continue to do in the lives of each of these church families collectively and individually. ❏ ❏ ❏
...From The Virtual p1
leading a 100% virtual church, both were on board, knowing that God was in the midst. Neither of them knew exactly what to expect, but by faith, they agreed, knowing that God had knitted their paths together in ministry. “I am blessed to be in partnership with Bro. James C. Turner, Jr., who is a brilliant, strategic thinker who brings a millennial perspective of cutting-edge
ministry to CORAMEC,” noted Brother Ruffin. “His wife, Sister Chelsea Turner, also brings the requisite and pertinent graphics and social media production skills that make CORAMEC virtual worship services possible. My wife, Sister Hope Ruffin, and I are both privileged and blessed to be in ministry partnership with the Turners.” he added. Under the renewed 100% ...continued on p3
COVID-19 pandemic. Brothers Ruffin and Turner, both licentiates in the Washington Annual Conference (WAC), had just finished the second year of the WAC Board of Examiners, and both were seeking God in prayer for their next steps in ministry. Unbeknownst to either of them, God was already working it out. So, when they received the call to consider the novel idea of co-
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YOU, GOD, AND THE NEW NORMAL By Rev. Dr. Melinda Contreras Byrd, Contributing Writer
Well, folks—what we never imagined—happened. What we thought would be over—is not. The lives we used to live—we can no longer live. In so many important ways, everything has changed. However, I intend these fearful truths that follow to be a realistic foundation for offering you health, hope, and a new spiritual, mental, and physical life. James 4:7 teaches that if you “resist the devil, he will flee from you.” The problem is that many of us don’t resist the devil because we are either unaware of his presence or too frightened to admit what we see! Concurrently, I have come to realize, through recent interactions, that many are not willing or able to recognize the psychological challenge—that the pandemic has created a perfect storm of high-level, ongoing stress—in all of us. For example, a June 2020 Center for Disease Control (CDC) survey of adults across the U.S. found that thirty-one percent of respondents reporting symptoms of anxiety or depression, twentysix percent reporting stress-related symptoms, and eleven percent reporting serious thoughts of suicide. These results are nearly double the rates before the pandemic! It is important that we accept that we have all been under a heavy and unhealthy amount of stress for almost two years now! There is no way (except a God-appointed miracle just for you) that you will have no symptoms. They do not make you weak, faithless, or mean that God is no longer in control. It’s just God’s “natural order of things.” The dictionary defines “stress” positively as “any environmental or physical pressure that elicits a response from an organism. Usually, stress promotes survival because it forces organisms to adapt to rapidly changing environmental conditions.” You can easily look up yourself the negative consequences of stress. My point here is that we must all look for and accept our personal reactions to stress as a normal result of all we have been through. Then we must begin a spiritual journey that can deactivate and lessen our symptoms. The psychological can then mix with the spiritual and move us toward times of meditation and reevaluation. In this process, we encounter God in new ways that give us hope, help, and a new vision for the future. It is when we face the underlying fears that often accompany stresses such as those we are enduring that we become assured of God’s promises, experience God’s presence, receive physical and spiritual strength and renewal, a higher level of spiritual discernment and wisdom, and power we could not have imagined. We are now standing in the new normal. Here are three steps to begin this journey of renewal and healing: 1. After reading this, ask God’s help on your journey of wisdom, empowerment, and healing. Then, set aside 15 minutes each day to just sit and allow yourself to think about how you are really doing. God will speak. 2. Determine to respond to those problematic areas you uncover. This is the hardest part. Your ego will tell you, “you are OK,” “you’re too strong, or too spiritual,” “ that you have too much of an image in the church to uphold” to ask for help and begin this journey. Nevertheless, make that commitment! Speak it out loud or write it down in order to make it a legitimate agreement between you and God. 3. Join with a prayer partner and schedule your meetings for prayer. Then engage a third party to help create tangible interventions. (It is very likely that your pastor is already overwhelmed with all of the added responsibilities created by ...From The Virtual p2
virtual format, CORAMEC was reconstituted as CORAMEC Worldwide (CORAMECWW), and on September 13, 2020, held its inaugural virtual worship service on its new Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/corameww. CORAMECWW was ready and moving forward after several months of establishing new organizational and strategic planning documents, new electronic giving methodologies (e.g., Givelify, CashApp, Tithely), a new webpage at https://christourredeemeramecww. org and YouTube channel https://www.youtube.com/ channel/UCZPC5Akxkj3a6kud9fd4GaA, and a new United States postal mailing address.
this pandemic; hopefully, your pastor and friends are already engaging in their own journey). Break that ego yoke and see a counselor or therapist! Lastly, here are things that you may be noticing in yourself. They are our “new normal” in the midst of the ongoing stresses of a viral pandemic, increasing racism, and increasing atmospheric threats from global warming: 1. Inability to sleep through the night 2. Difficulty staying still 3. Thoughts of hopelessness/suicide 4. Ongoing tiredness 5. Forgetting the day of the week or other passing confusion 6. Suicidal/the world is ending, thinking 7. Lack of desire to socialize—even on Zoom 8. Exaggerated responses to noises or news 9. Increased anxiety or feelings of panic 10. Unexplained sadness and crying 11. Increased anger, especially when hearing of instances of racism 12. Changes in appetite 13. Argumentativeness 14.Body aches and pains, muscle tightness/twitching 15.Difficulty staying focused, forgetfulness 16. Questioning God and your faith Here are some helpful resources to support your journey: 1. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Service Administration (SAMHSA) Disaster Distress Helpline (1-800-985-5990) 2. Crisis Text Line (Text HOME to 741741 or https://www.crisistextline.org/) 3. Suicide Prevention Lifeline (1-800-273-TALK or https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/) 4. Free Black Therapy, Inc. (www.freeblacktherapy.org) 5. Doggett, J. (2021 March). “The best places on the internet for people of color to talk about therapy.” Huffington Post. https://www.huffpost.com/entry/ best-places-online-people-of-color-therapy_l_5d3ad936e4b0c31569e9a74d 6. Wilson, J. (2020 July). “This is what racial trauma does to the body and brain,” Huffington Post. https://www.huffpost.com/entry/what-racial-trauma-doesbody-brain_l_5efa43b1c5b6acab28459220 7. Therapy For Black Men (www.therapyforblackmen.org) 8. Therapy for Black Girls (www.therapyforblackgirls.org) 9. Boris L. Henson Foundation (https://borislhensonfoundation.org/) 10. National Queer and Trans Therapists of Color Network (https://nqttcn.com/en/) 11. Online Christian Counseling Services (www.betterhelp.com) 12. Christian Spiritual Directors (www.soulcareministries.org) 13. Need a Quick Stress Reliever? (https://apple.news/A_Ns3KtlfSdqP-i_dZ0lDUw) 14. Smith, M. (1977) How I Learned to Meditate. Logos International. 15. Menakem, R. (2017) My Grandmother’s Hands: Racialized Trauma and the Pathway to Mending Our Hearts and Bodies. Central Recovery Press. 16. Wise Rowe, S. and Rah, S. (2020) Healing Racial Trauma: the Road to Resilience. IVP Books. ❏ ❏ ❏
Brother Ruffin states, “As we approach the first anniversary of our inaugural virtual worship service with an anniversary celebration scheduled for Sunday, September 12, 2021, at 10 a.m., we are reminded that this new model of virtual church and ministry is here to stay. We believe that the virtual church without walls is foundational to serving Christ and the community. In addition, the virtual church model and pastoral partnerships may provide additional opportunities for those entering pastoral ministry. This new model may also be a flourishing, cost-effective methodology for the AME Church. As we review other online business models of churches, along with corporations
like Amazon, Google, Facebook, Shopify, and many others, we are reminded that the world has changed and that the church needs to change its approach in providing and delivering God’s word and the ministry of Jesus Christ. “We are amazed,” said Brother Ruffin, “that we are reaching disciples and communities around the world, in places like Germany, Pakistan, Botswana, Nigeria, Haiti, Ethiopia, and across the United States. Regardless of what happens in the postCOVID-19 era, the virtual church is here to stay, and CORAMEC-WW will be at the leading edge of this transformational phenomenon.”❏ ❏ ❏
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OCTOBER 2021
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PAYNE THEOLOGICAL SEMINARY HOLDS DOCTOR OF MINISTRY PROGRAM IN SAVANNAH Payne Theological Seminary of Wilberforce, Ohio, held its Doctor of Ministry Program in Savannah, Georgia, from August 23-27, 2021, at the Thompson Savannah Hotel. The opening service was held on Monday at St. Philip Monumental AME Church, where the Rev. Bernard Clarke is the pastor. Bishop Timothy Clarke, the senior pastor of First Church of God in Columbus, Ohio, brought the message entitled, “When Experts Don’t Know.” He is currently the chairman of the General Assembly and president of the Ministers’ Counsel, which represents the governing and functional boards off the Church of God International Assembly. The theme of the week-long intensive was Health and the Black Church. The first plenary, held on Tuesday, was presented by Dr. Frank E. Glover, Jr. His session was entitled, “A Historical Overview of Public Health in the Black Church.” The second session, held on Wednesday, delved into “Vaccines, Experimental Drugs and Unfamiliar Drugs and the Black Church and Community.” This session was presented by the Rev. Doreleena Sammons Hackett, SM, CPM. The third session, held on Thursday, was entitled, “Mental Health as a Public Health Concern for the Black Church.” Dr. D Lewis L i Kola K l presented d this hi session. The Rev. Michael Joseph Brown, Ph.D., the president of Payne Theological Seminary since 2016, explained the doctorate program as a culmination of
three years of study, which includes a practical research-based presentation. Dr. Brown oversees all seminary activities, including Br vision development and promotion and resource vis acquisition toward the mission of educating acq women and men to make a difference in the wo world through Christian acts of virtue, mercy, and wo justice. jus The Rev. Keith Lawrence, D.Min., serves as the director of the doctoral program. The Rev. Betty Holley, Ph.D., is the academic dean of Payne Be Theological Seminary. Th A native of Savannah, Dr. Daniel Stevenson has served as a dean of the Sixth Episcopal District ser se Board of Examiners of the AME Church. Dr. Bo B Stevenson played an integral role in bringing Ste the program to Savannah. His rich educational background and experience have afforded him ba the opportunity to effect change in the lives of many whom the Lord has placed in his path in ma both his secular and ministerial professions. Dr. bo Stevenson’s tireless and selfless contributions Ste to his community, the AME Church, and most notably to all of God’s people have stretched over no decades and have touched the lives of thousands de off individuals. to walk loyally in the will and purpose of the Lord, i di id l He H continues i always ready and willing to embark upon any challenge or goal that is geared toward kingdom building. Adapted from the Savannah Tribune
THE RT. REV. JULIUS HARRISON MCALLISTER, SR. DEDICATES CORNERSTONE LAYING AND SERVICES FOR TURNER CHAPEL AME CHURCH IN GREENWOOD By Rev. Dr. Alice Hubbard Crenshaw, 8th Episcopal District
In 2001, the Rev. Ray A. Jackson was appointed to Turner Chapel AME Church by Bishop Cornell Garnett Henning. The Rev. Jackson came with an extremely ambitious vision for the church and the congregation. He met with the entire congregation and laid out a plan presenting his proposed vision. He encouraged us with a rallying cry that resonated throughout to build with an appropriate scripture: Nehemiah 4:6, “So we rebuilt the wall, and all the wall was joined together to half its height; for the people had a mind to work.” The church was completely remodeled during his tenure, with the members adding a kitchen and a large fellowship hall. We also gained properties that were donated to our church. Previously the church’s fellowship hall was located across the street in the next block. The first phase of the Rev. Jackson’s vision was to sell the old fellowship hall building. With minimal opposition, the majority membership decided that we would improve the church in phases. In 2005, the Rev. Jackson, under the leadership of Bishop Carolyn Tyler Guidry, a new fellowship hall was built and connected to the existing church building, which included several classrooms to be utilized for Sunday School. After that phase was completed, church services were held in the new fellowship hall. The third phase was the renovation of the church’s sanctuary as we continued our rallying cry, “So we rebuilt the wall.” This scripture became the theme for every program we did thereafter. In 2010, the renovation for the sanctuary was completed and all the walls were then joined together. The Rev. Jackson was promoted and appointed a presiding elder before laying the cornerstones; two pastors have come and gone since then. The cornerstones were finally completed under our new pastor, the Rev. Dr. Alice Hubbard Crenshaw, and our new bishop, the Rt. Rev. Julius Harrison McAllister, Sr. Our dedication ceremony commenced on June 20, 2021. Bishop McAllister was joined by Mother Joan Marla McAllister, his wife; Presiding Elder Archie R. Smith, Jr. of the Northwest Mississippi District and his wife, Mrs. Valerie Smith, district consultant; Presiding Elder Michelle Rene’ Goodloe of the South Mississippi District; and several clergypersons of the Northwest District including the Rev. Cora Lowe, the Rev. Byram McKinzie, the Rev. Horace McKay, the Rev. Gwendolyn Pitts, the Rev. Johnny Dumas, and the Rev. Veleria Brown. In his opening statement, Bishop McAllister saluted the Rev. Dr. Crenshaw for the wonderful work, stating that she is a visionary and knows how to get the work done. He thanked the members for all they continue to do to make the church function in a forward motion. He further stated that he has enjoyed working with Turner Chapel these past nine years as he would receive another assignment at the 51st Quadrennial Session of the General Conference. Bishop McAllister set the house on fire as he preached “Building on the Rock” from Matthew 7:24. His message was, “A Church Must Be Built on the Rock—Christ ...continued on p5
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NEW PASTOR’S WELCOME BRINGS OUT LEADERS
...From The Rt. Rev. p4 J e s u s . ”
Bishop gave three points. First, we must be a praying church with good ministries. Second, our churches must be a place of second and more chances as we seek each other through the eyes of God. Third, we must be a church where love abides regardless of problems and issues because where love abounds, love is shown. Bishop McCallister reminded us that people do not need anyone to tell them they messed up. Instead, we need to know that the blood of Jesus will fix it, Jesus will wash away our sins, and that we must stay on the rock— Christ Jesus—and walk daily with him. ❏ ❏ ❏
Police Chief Brian Johnson approached the microphone holding a mug with pens in it, he had to pass Smith on his way. Then, to add a little levity to what could be a tense moment, Johnson teased Smith. “We always have to one-up each other, right?” Johnson joked. The room broke into laughter as he reached his destination, where he welcomed Pastor Porter and invited him to join the El Centro Police Department’s clergy council, so it may better serve the people of faith in El Centro. He went on to share what, in Chief Johnson’s opinion, makes Imperial County different from other communities. “What’s so special about Imperial County? It’s the only county that you can wear a Black Lives Matter t-shirt and carry an El Centro Police Department mug,” Johnson said. “Whether you drink coffee, or tea, or whatever your beverage may be, just know that in the Imperial Valley, you can wear a Black Lives Matter t-shirt and drink out of our mugs,” he added. After the event, Pastor Porter explained that his reasoning for joining the Imperial Valley Social Justice Committee came out of his faith. “Well, AME, the African Methodist Episcopal Church, stands for social justice. That’s a hallmark of our denomination, so pretty much de facto AME Church is going to work hand in hand with social justice committees,” he shared, adding, “So that is a hand-in-glove fit for us.” The city of Calexico made a strong showing as well, having three representatives from three different facets of the community coming to welcome the pastor, including interim San Diego State University-Imperial Valley campus
©MARCIE LANDEROS
Community leaders from around the Imperial Valley showed a more intimate side, sharing what drives them as they welcomed the Social Justice Committee’s newest member, Pastor Martin C. Porter, and his wife, Anita, to the Imperial Valley. Marlene Thomas, Imperial Valley Social Justice Committee founder, planned the event for a steamy Saturday morning, August 28, surprising the pastor and his wife, who thought they were coming to a regular Social Justice Committee meeting. “It was very unexpected. We are so overwhelmingly grateful and are feeling so blessed,” Anita Porter said in an interview after the event. “It was such a warm welcoming, and I don’t think anybody could have asked for anything better than this. El Centro has truly welcomed us,” she added. Pastor Porter is the newest minister of El Centro’s Johnson Chapel AME Church. The tone for the event was set by Black Lives Matter Imperial Valley Chief Executive Officer Hilton Smith, who shared that he was very excited when he heard that Pastor Porter was not only a pastor but also an activist, promising to “put him to work.” Smith then shed light on what drives him, as he presented him with a Black Lives Matter t-shirt. “I was born and raised in Imperial Valley, and I am not impressed with the way things are now. Our elected officials are beholden to us, and it is up to us to hold them accountable. No ill feelings, but you have got to speak up, and you’ve got to speak out. So, on behalf of Black Lives Matter Imperial Valley, I want to welcome you to the Imperial Valley,” Smith said. A few moments later, when El Centro
Dean Mark Wheeler, Imperial Irrigation District Director Javier Gonzalez, and Police Chief Gonzalo Gerardo, who quietly announced his retirement while welcoming the pastor. Gerardo assured the crowd that he wouldn’t be going anywhere, saying he wanted to continue to work Pastor Martin C. Porter taps elbows with with the city of Calexico in El Centro Mayor Pro Tem Tomas Oliva, whatever way his retirement as Oliva welcomes Porter to El Centro during a surprise event in their honor would allow. He also expressed at the Imperial Valley Social Justice a desire to connect with his Committee office on Saturday, Aug. 28. roots after discovering that he is almost half Kumeyaay and Pai Pai, which are tribes that historically lived in the Imperial and Mexicali valleys, saying, “Now when people call me Indio, I am more than happy.” Gonzalez shared with the pastor, “On behalf of the Imperial Irrigation District, welcome to the Imperial Valley. I know you will find Anita and Martin C. Porter, the pastor of very friendly people here. I Johnson Chapel AME Church in El Centro have always thought that faith- and newest member of the Imperial Valley based organizations are the Social Justice Committee (left), sit listening backbone of the community. to Hilton Smith of Black Lives Matter Whether it’s homelessness or Imperial Valley as Smith welcomes them to the county on Saturday, Aug. 28. broken marriages, it’s not the of the answer that we are looking for, government that is the answer; it’s faithbut the government can be a part of it,” based organizations.” Oliva said, after sharing his personal Tomas Oliva, mayor pro tem of El connections to the AME Church. “So, we Centro, was in attendance alongside are here to work with you to assure that fellow El Centro City Council member the lives of your congregation and the Martha Cardenas-Singh. They encouraged other residents here’s lives improve for the working with city leadership for the better, and please, look at us as partners. betterment of the community. “I agree, And again, welcome to El Centro,” to an extent, with Mr. Gonzalez that Gonzalez commented. ❏ ❏ ❏ faith-based organizations are a large part ©MARCIE LANDEROS
By Marcie Landeros, Calexico Chronicle
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...From Chicago p1 ceremony was delayed due to the
COVID-19 pandemic but allowed to proceed after restrictions on public gatherings were relaxed. The master of ceremonies was the Rev. James C. Bailey, the current pastor of St. Stephen AME Church, who welcomed everyone to the celebration reminding those assembled that Tyson loved his church and community and did all that he could to serve them. The Rev. James Moody, the pastor of Quinn Chapel AME Church, Chicago, gave the occasion, and Dr. Walter D. Johnson, the pastor of Greater Institutional AME Church, Chicago, gave the invocation. Both were longtime friends of Presiding Elder Tyson and are pastors in the North District. Several public officials and community activists gave tributes. Mr. Ernest Gates of the Near West Side Community Development Corporation reflected on Tyson’s outsized character stating, “A street sign is a great thing, but it doesn’t speak to who the person is. He was our leader.” Church of God in Christ (COGIC) Superintendent Michael Eaddy, Congressman Danny K. Davis, and the Rev. James Meeks of Salem Baptist Church all spoke of Tyson’s leadership and ability to build the unlikeliest of coalitions to uplift the Garfield Park community and the city of Chicago as a whole. After the community tributes, Sister Michal Patterson of Canaan AME Church, Maywood, performed a song that Tyson often sang before preaching, “Oh, It Is Jesus.” Next, Tyson’s colleague, Presiding Elder Walter Bauldrick, Sr., gave brief remarks and introduced Bishop John F. White, Sr., the presiding prelate of the 4th Episcopal District. While reflecting with joy and pride on the celebration, Bishop White expressed his own bittersweet feelings, “I still miss my friend.” After the bishop, Mr. Vance Henry, Chief of Faith Engagement for the city of Chicago, read a proclamation from Mayor Lori Lightfoot. Mrs. Robin H. Tyson gave remarks on behalf of her late husband’s family, thanking all the attendees. With pride, she reflected on her journey with the Rev. Tyson and the relationships he built to serve his community. “My husband tho ught he would be most effective if he could just get in the ‘room where it happened,’” she said. The ceremony closed with remarks from Alderman Walter Burnett of the 27th Ward, the unveiling of the street sign, and an outdoor reception. ❏ ❏ ❏
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JOHNS CHAPEL, ENTERPRISE, ALABAMA ASSISTS FLOOD VICTIMS On Saturday, September 11, a day in which America takes pause to remember the tragic events that took place 20 years ago, the faithful members of Johns Chapel AME Church of Enterprise, Alabama, under the leadership of Pastor Willie White, Jr. and W cco-chairs Sister Helen Nichols and Sister N Debra Brown, collected D donations to assist new d neighbors who had n rrecently been relocated to Alabama due to the torrential flooding and aftermath caused by Hurricane Ida. to The event, although planned out of a response to a natural disaster, ended up being a celebratory event for the entire Enterprise community. Pastor White stated that even though the storm affected property over fo 4450 miles away from Johns Chapel, the community wanted a way to assist those affected the most. Several Louisiana residents have temporarily and permanently found shelter and refuge in Enterprise and surrounding L ccounties; many arrived with just the clothes on their back along with some essential belongings that they were able to obtain before departing. “Neighbors Helping Neighbors” was the theme of the initiative, and w the committee used as their reference, 1 Peter 1:22 (NRSV), “Now that you have purified your souls by your th obedience to the truth so that you have genuine mutual love, love one another deeply from the heart.” o “Regardless of how long the evacuees remain in Enterprise, they are now our neighbors,” said Pastor White. He went on to say that this is a way for Johns Chapel to shine a light on those who were victimized by the H eelements and to give God all the praise. ❏ ❏ ❏
MT. ZION AME CHURCH, DOVER, DEDICATES COMMUNITY GARDEN By Cheryl Fisher, 1st Episcopal District
©Cheryl Fisher
©Cheryl Fisher
©Cheryl Fisher
©Shayna Robinson
Taking our health into our own hands has never been more important than at this very moment. In the midst of a pandemic, it is crucial that our churches pool resources to provide fresh food to our communities. Planning, planting, and harvesting our own food in our own gardens is the key, according to the AME Church’s International Health Commission to Prevent Food Insecurity and Food Injustice Program. The immediate past president of the AME Church’s Health Commission, Bishop Harry L. Seawright, said, “The vision of the AMEC is to take our health into our own hands and to grow our own food; it starts with each church doing its part. Growing a garden on church property should be a vision for all churches.” The vision of a community garden on the grounds of the Mt. Zion AME Church in Dover, Delaware, became a reality with a dedication service on Sunday, June 13, 2021, when church and community members planted the seeds of hope and bell pepper plants. The Rev. Dr. Erika D. Crawford, the pastor of Mt. Zion AME Church, Dover, and the Connectional president of the AME Church’s Women In Ministry, set a goal this year to have a real impact on the community. “Our goal is to go outside the four walls of the church and into our neighborhood. This community garden, which is for everyone, is so important in fulfilling a need for affordable, fresh vegetables in our own neighborhood where sometimes there is a scarcity of healthy, fresh food,” she said. The dedication service began with a welcome message from garden committee member Dr. Bobby Jones who told the audience how they too could get involved. Dr. Wilma Mishoe, past president of Delaware DEDICATING THE COMMUNITY GARDEN State University and garden committee member, said a prayer that honored the men and women Front L-R: Vivian Jones, Savannah Jones; Second Row L-R: o of Mt. Zion Alvin Fisher, Cheryl Fisher, Doris Cooper, Dr. Bobby Jones, w who envisioned Dr. Wilma Mishoe, Gregory Smith, Rev. Dr. Erika Crawford; a community Third Row: L-R: Sen. Trey Paradee, Mike Waskylkowski, City g garden on the Council President-Roy Sudler, Jr. c church property. G Garden committee member Ms. Doris Cooper read the scripture from John 15:15 which states: “I am the true vine, and my Father is the vinegrower. He removes 5, e every branch in me that bears no fruit. Every branch that bears fruit he prunes to m make it bear more fruit. You have already been cleansed by the word that I have sp spoken to you. Abide in me as I abide in you. Just as the branch cannot bear fruit b itself unless it abides in the vine, neither can you unless you abide in me. I am by the Tending to our Harvesting our Sharing vegetables th vine, you are the branches. Those who abide in me and I in them bear much fruit, because apart from me you can do nothing.” garden. garden. from our garden “The mission of the community garden is to create an inviting garden that is to local churches included homemade inspirational, educational, and sustainable to the community ...continued on p11 zucchini bread.
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THE FIRST, PRIVATE, HISTORICALLY BLACK COLLEGE/UNIVERSITY ADVANCES STUDENT ENTREPRENEURSHIP WITH KENNESAW STATE Wilberforce University (WU) in Greene County, Ohio, and Kennesaw State University (KSU) in Cobb County, Georgia, are collaborating to advance entrepreneurial and academic opportunities at both institutions. In a formal agreement, the nation’s first, private, Historically Black College/University (HBCU) will collaborate with the Robin and Doug Shore Entrepreneurship Center in the Michael J. Coles College of Business at Kennesaw State University in Kennesaw, Georgia. The newly crafted alliance will promote entrepreneurial practices through student projects, faculty collaboration and research, and mentorship during the 2021-2022 academic year. “The Memorandum of Understanding between Wilberforce University and Kennesaw State University provides a roadmap of how two diverse institutions can enhance education worldwide. What makes this opportunity unique: as two diverse historical institutions, we both are proud to serve our students,” said Dr. Johnny D. Jones, the provost of Wilberforce University Atlanta businessman Mark Wilson initiated the partnership. He has ties to both universities as a WU alumnus, chair of the Wilberforce Board of Trustees, the benefactor of the WU Mark and Shelly Wilson Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation, and a member of the Coles College of Business Advisory Board. “The formal establishment of this partnership is an important step toward creating the next generation of entrepreneurs,” said Mark Wilson. “This is extraordinarily exciting for both institutions,” he added. With faculty members from both universities serving as mentors, Kennesaw State and Wilberforce students will collaborate on entrepreneurship projects aimed at developing and implementing solutions to community-based issues. Student activities, such as KSU’s Enactus team that promotes socially responsible entrepreneurship, can serve as a platform for collaboration across student populations. “Helping students develop an entrepreneurial mindset through our center and degree program is one of Kennesaw State’s priorities, and we look forward to expanding that commitment with Wilberforce University,” said Robin Cheramie, the dean of the Coles College of Business, adding, “Entrepreneurship can be career-changing, and even life-changing, for innovators who develop new ventures.” Plans for the partnership include opportunities for P joint jo research, a student-faculty exchange, and other academic initiatives that will promote student and a faculty success at both institutions. fa Wilberforce University, located in southwest Ohio near Dayton, is the nation’s oldest, private, O Historically Black College/University (HBCU). H Founded in 1856, the university is a member of the F United Negro College Fund (UNCF), the Ohio Link U Library Consortium, and the NAIA Conference. L According to HBCU.com, Wilberforce University is A among the top five HBCUs in the midwest. a A leader in innovative teaching and learning, Kennesaw State University offers undergraduate, K graduate, and doctoral degrees to more than 41,000 students. With 11 colleges on two metro Atlanta campuses, Kennesaw State is a member of the University System of Georgia and the second-largest university in the state. The university’s vibrant campus culture, diverse population, strong global ties, and entrepreneurial spirit draw students from throughout the region and from 126 countries across the globe. Kennesaw State is a Carnegie-designated doctoral research institution (R2), placing it among an elite group of only 6 percent of U.S. colleges and universities with an R1 or R2 status. ❏ ❏ ❏
A CHRISTIAN RESPONSE TO AFGHANISTAN By Quardricos Bernard Driskell, Columnist
I am a healthcare lobbyist. I teach religion and politics. I am not a politician or a policymaker, nor do I lobby on behalf of foreign policy. So, I’m not going to prescribe any solutions to the absolute mess and humanitarian catastrophe which is ongoing in Afghanistan. However, the last few weeks of the ensuing strife in the country has led to widespread criticism from lawmakers, refugee advocates, and humanitarian organizations that its efforts at diplomacy with the Taliban have created confusion and are harming rather than helping specific Americans and Afghan allies who are still trying to leave Afghanistan by air and land. However, I will say this. I have been deeply troubled by the rhetoric around the welcome of refugees from Afghanistan into this country in some circles. I recall in Mark 7, in which Jesus is talking about defilement – specifically in verse 15 – “there is nothing outside a person that by going in can defile, but the things that come out are what defile.” This language of defilement - that these people who need a place to go, who are fleeing from danger, that they will somehow harm us or affect us or defile us or soil us or sully us is painfully, painfully
familiar in American culture. It’s been said about fleeing refugee Afghans in the last two weeks. It is routinely said about immigrants and refugees from Central and Latin America. It was said over and over again about Syrian refugees. And most assuredly, it has been said about black immigrants across the diaspora. Also, I can hear Jesus saying, “You are taking something and naming it as holy to prevent you from fulfilling your actual holy obligation. You are using piety to cover your wickedness.” And he says, this isn’t a problem with the Pharisees. This is a problem with people. This is what people do. This idea that something out there that people, refugees are escaping danger could come in and pollute your cultural or ideological purity is precisely what Jesus is crying about. What can spoil us is our failure to reach ...continued on p9
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THE SOUNDS OF MUSIC RETURN TO THE NATION’S FIRST, PRIVATE HBCU: AFTER A HIATUS, THE WILBERFORCE UNIVERSITY MUSIC PROGRAM OPENS YOUR EARS A talented addition to the Wilberforce University (WU) faculty is Mr. James McLeod, who brings a 27-year career in instrumental education to WU. His history of building music and band programs is matched only by his successful recruitment of students, growing one college program exponentially within a short period. Mr. McLeod will serve as the chair of the WU Music Department, which means he will hire music teachers and redesign and develop the music curriculum for the bachelor of arts degrees in music performance for instrumental, vocal music, and the bachelor of science in music business (with a technology component). “We are starting with the building of a marching band, marked by the hiring of our director of instrumental music, Dr. Virgil Goodwine,” said Mr. McCleod. “Consequently, we will soon be accepting auditions for band scholarships to join the WU marching band. Next, we will be accepting auditions and offering scholarships to join the university choir. It is truly an exciting time here at Wilberforce,” Mr. McCleod added. Mr. McLeod received his undergraduate degree in music education from Mississippi Valley State University, a master’s degree in music education from Jackson State University, and a master’s of science in entertainment business from Full Sail University. In between teaching applied music, music appreciation
and theory, writing music, directing videos, and creating graphic designs, Mr. McLeod is presently working on his Ph.D. in music education. Interesting facts about him do not end there. He boasts of being able to play every instrument except the harmonica and the harp, but he is also proud that his grandfather’s aunt is the historic stateswoman, presidential advisor to Franklin D. Roosevelt, and civil rights activist Mary McLeod Bethune. Also, Mr. McLeod is a member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. The WU music renaissance also brings Dr. Virgil Goodwine back to his roots. The Colonel White School of the Performing Arts (Dayton Public Schools) graduate returns to the Greater Miami Valley to serve as the new assistant professor of Music and director of Musical Instruments and Ensembles. Dr. Goodwine comes to WU with an extensive background as the director of Instrumental Music for the Oak Park School District in Detroit, Michigan. “I am here,” says Dr. Goodwine, “to cultivate an innovative culture of excellence in music.” He will soon bring the legacy of the Historically Black Colleges/Universities (HBCU) marching band soundscape to Wilberforce University. Dr. Goodwine received his bachelor’s degree in mathematics from Central State University, his master’s of science
d i music i from f h University U i i off Dayton, D d degree in the and his doctorate with a concentration in leadership in higher education research from Capella University. Dr. McLeod notes that the goals of the new music program are to (1) provide students with co-curricular experiences through vocal and instrumental ensembles (choir and band); (2) work closely with the Ray Charles Foundation to continue the study of music in higher education to make our students job-ready and prepared for further study in graduate school; (3) hire and retain qualified and talented faculty in the field of music to provide students with quality music and performing arts education; and (4) rebuild the university choir and provide performance opportunities for additional ensembles such as a marching band, jazz band, and various combos for exposure in the community to assist with student engagement and institutional advancement Wilberforce University eagerly welcomes both Mr. McLeod and Dr. Goodwine. It looks forward to great music. ❏ ❏ ❏
WHEN YOUR OPPONENT ALSO LOVES GOD: DISCERNING THE CORRECT PATH By Rev. Dr. Jason Curry, Columnist
It is no secret that the people of God often disagree. For example, the story of the two prophets who disagreed in 1 Kings 13, the disagreement between Paul and Barnabas over the role of Mark in Acts 15:36-41, the denial of Peter concerning the presence of Christ in his life in Luke 22:54-62, and the disagreement between Euodia and Syntyche, two people who worked with Paul in the Christian ministry, in Philippians 4 provides credence to the assertion that people who love the Lord often disagree. Even though Jesus instructed his disciples to love their enemies (Matthew 5:44), as members of the body of Christ, I don’t believe that Christians should view one another as enemies. However, inasmuch as disagreeing Christians may inadvertently or blatantly undermine the progress of ministry, perhaps, disagreeing Christians should properly view one another as “opponents” from time to time. The question that often confronts disagreeing Christians is as follows: What should you do when you strongly disagree with your Christian opponent who also loves God? you to do. Third, don’t ever forget that the Christian The following three suggestions have assisted me in moving forward with my story is a story of love and redemption; therefore, Christian calling or mandate in the midst of Christians with whom I disagree. your “Christian opponent” is not necessarily a First, don’t dismiss the voice of God even if you determine that God is speaking permanent opponent. Leave room for reconciliation as you search for command through your Christian “opponent.” An omnipotent (all-powerful) God may ground with your brother or sister in Christ. choose to use anyone or anything (e.g., God spoke through a donkey in Numbers The biblical record stated that King Josiah eventually died because he didn’t 22:28) to communicate God’s intent for humanity. We must be receptive to listen to the voice of the Lord, which originated from an unlikely place (e.g., God’s voice whenever, wherever, and however it may be found. Second, don’t the mouth of King Necho of Egypt, which is recorded in 2 Chronicles 35:20). be deterred by your opponent because your unique task in salvation history Let us continue to pray that we might recognize and embrace God’s voice and can only be accomplished by you. God has specific plans for you (see Jeremiah instruction wherever, whenever, and however it may be found. ❏ ❏ ❏ 29:11); therefore, seek to perform the ministerial task that God has entrusted ...From A Christian p8 out to those who require our help. It’s not about keeping the world from touching you. It’s about you reaching out to the world God loves and lending it a hand, feeling it yourself. It’s not about keeping others from getting close to you. It’s about having the courage to get close to those others God loves. After all, was Jesus himself not a refugee fleeing from danger? Thus, when I think about the situation in Afghanistan, I can’t help but think of another parable of Jesus, the Good Samaritan. In the parable of the Good Samaritan, Jesus talks about what it means to love your neighbor. This is the revolutionary teaching of Jesus, to love your neighbor. Might we employ this in our discourse about Afghanistan? Perhaps our politics? In our foreign policy? Or, maybe not. That would be too much like what Jesus would do.
Quardricos Bernard Driskell is a federal lobbyist, pastor of the Historic Beulah Baptist Church, and an adjunct professor of legislative politics at The George Washington University Graduate School of Political Management. Follow him on Twitter @q_driskell4.
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ECUMENICALNEWS
ALBERT RABOTEAU, AN EXPERT ON AFRICAN AMERICAN RELIGIOUS HISTORY, DEAD AT 78 Albert J. Raboteau, an American religion historian who helped students and journalists enhance their understanding of African American religion, has died. The scholar died on Saturday, September 18, 2021, in Princeton, New Jersey, years after being diagnosed with Lewy Body Dementia, Princeton University announced. He was 78. A Princeton faculty member since the 1980s, Raboteau reached emeritus status in 2013. He chaired the university’s religion department from 1987 to 1992 and was dean of its graduate school from 1992-93. “Professor Raboteau taught me so much: how to move about the archive, how to trust and be comfortable with my questions, and how to write clearly and with sophistication,” Eddie Glaude, Jr., chair of Princeton’s African American studies department, said in a Princeton statement. “His brilliance knew no boundaries. His work helped create an entire field, and he could move just as easily in the fields of literature and film.” When a book editor came to campus seeking to learn about Raboteau’s next book, a Princeton appreciation noted, the author instead arranged a meeting with the editor and Glaude, leading to the publication of the then-graduate student’s first book. In addition to his years of mentoring students, Raboteau also gave journalists his perspective on the history of the Black Church and contemporary religious attempts to address racism. At a 2015 Faith Angle Forum discussion, he addressed reporters on “Forgiveness and the African American Church Experience.” Raboteau said, “Small, faceto-face cross-racial gatherings, such as Bible studies and sharing meals, could be more important than statements of apology about racism by predominantly white denominations.” “What we are as a nation is a collection of disparate stories, an ever-exfoliating set of separate stories, and what we need to bind us together is to be able to hear the stories of others in a face-to-face encounter,” he said. “And that can be sponsored by churches; churches would be a natural place to sponsor that kind of faceto-face contact.” Raboteau was known for his writings about African American faith, authoring texts such as Fire in the Bones: Reflections on African American Religious History, Canaan Land: A Religious History of African Americans. He was especially known for his book Slave Religion: The Invisible Institution in the Antebellum South, An “In Memoriam” Princeton tribute described his 2002 book A Sorrowful Joy as a volume that reflected “the stakes of the study of African American religious history as a black man from Bay St. Louis, Mississippi whose father was murdered by a white man before he was born and as a Christian believer whose religious formation took place first in the Roman Catholic Church and in later years, Eastern Orthodoxy.” Across social media this week, scholars of religion described Raboteau’s influence on them. “For me, Al wasn’t the usual kind of mentor,” tweeted Anthea Butler, professor of religion at the University of Pennsylvania. “He was an ideal to me about both scholarship and spirituality.” She added, in the last tweet of a thread that seemed to give a nod to his conversion to Orthodox Christianity: “Finally (and not sure if he would a. like this or b. chastise me) but I would pay a lot of money if someone painted Al Raboteau as an icon. For me, he is the patron saint of the study of African American religion. May he rest in eternal peace and bliss.” Cornel West, a Princeton emeritus professor who now teaches at Union Theological Seminary, tweeted after the death of his colleague of more than four decades that Raboteau “was the Godfather of Afro-American Religious Studies & the North Star of deep Christian political sensibilities! I shall never forget him!” Raboteau also was the author of “African American Religion,” a 1999 volume in the Religion in American Life series published by Oxford University Press. He wrote in its first chapter of the historical role of slave preachers and other black pioneers whose sermons reached free black people as well as the enslaved. “The growth of Baptist and Methodist churches between 1770 and 1820 changed the religious complexion of the South by bringing large numbers of slaves into ...continued on p11
GLOBAL RELIGIOUS LEADERS, SCIENTISTS JOIN TO RELEASE “FAITH AND SCIENCE: AN APPEAL FOR COP26” Almost 40 faith leaders signed the joint appeal, which was presented by Pope Francis. Signatories included World Council of Churches acting general secretary the Rev. Prof. Dr. Ioan Sauca, along with representatives from across the Christian denominations, Sunni and Shi’a Islam, Judaism, Hinduism, Sikhism, Buddhism, Confucianism, Taoism, Zoroastrianism, and Jainism. The appeal calls for the world to achieve net-zero carbon emissions as soon as possible, and to limit the global average temperature rise to 1.5 degrees above pre-industrial levels. “As leaders and scholars from various religious traditions, we unite in a spirit of humility, responsibility, mutual respect, and open dialogue,” reads the appeal. “This dialogue is not limited to merely the exchange of ideas, but is focused on the desire to walk in companionship, recognizing our call to live in harmony with one another and with nature.” The appeal also presses wealthier nations and those with the greatest responsibility to take the lead, stepping up their climate action at home and financially supporting vulnerable countries to adapt to and address climate change. “Nature is a gift, but also a life-giving force without which we cannot exist,” reads the appeal. “Together, we must address the threats facing our common home.” The faith leaders and scientists also urge governments to raise their ambition and their international cooperation to transition to clean energy and to sustainable land use practices, environmentally friendly food systems, and responsible financing. “The warnings from the scientific community are becoming increasingly stark and clear, as is the need for concrete steps to be taken,” reads the appeal. “Scientists say that time is running out.” Faith leaders themselves also committed to greater climate action. “Now is the time for urgent, radical, and responsible action,” reads the text. “Transforming the present situation requires the international community to act with greater ambition and fairness, in all aspects of its policies and strategies.” Reprinted from the World Council of Churches.
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...From Mt. Zion p7
that surrounds our church,” said Kent County master gardener and garden committee member Mrs. Cheryl Fisher. Garden committee member Mr. Alvin Fisher said this garden belongs to everyone in the community. “Yes, we want everyone to enjoy the harvest, but first, we must put in the work,” he said. Mr. Carl Batson, a church trustee, said, “We are thankful to have this garden on our property, and we will support the effort in any way we can.” Several guests attended the dedication. City Council President Roy Sudler, Jr. said, “It’s been a while to make this happen, and anything the city of Dover can do to help, we will be there.” Delaware State Senator Trey Paradee joined in the praise for a community garden. “What a glorious day to get together to celebrate this garden. I predict that this garden will double in size by next year, and you are off to a great start.” Mike Waskylkowski, with the Delaware State Small Farms Office, said, “My job is working with community gardens, and I just don’t see how this can miss.” The Rev. Crawford then scooped up a handful of soil and blessed the garden. She added, “We are asking you to join us as we make our garden grow. We are all brothers and sisters placed on this earth to help one another and love one another. What better way to serve your neighbor than to help plant a garden.” Finally, with garden trowels in hand, garden committee member Mr. Gregory Smith and several people, including children, planted the very first pepper plants. In just one month, the garden team planted, watered, and weeded the garden. Since the garden dedication, Mt. Zion AME Church has distributed squash, cucumbers, zucchini, and peppers to the neighborhood and food pantry. In addition, every Sunday, church and community members can help themselves to fresh vegetables. The garden team even donated fresh vegetables with homemade zucchini bread to neighborhood churches as an incentive to get them involved and perhaps start their own gardens. A sustainable garden can help sustain a neighborhood with fresh food and community involvement. Cheryl Fisher leads the Mt. Zion AME Church Garden Ministry and is a Kent County master gardener. Resources: AME Church Health Commission: http://amechealth.org/ Black Church Food Insecurity Network: https://blackchurchfoodsecurity.net/ American Horticultural Society Master Gardeners: https://ahsgardening.org/ gardening-resources/master-gardeners/ ❏ ❏ ❏ ...From Albert p10
membership in the church and by introducing even more to the basics of Christian belief and practice,” he wrote. “The Black Church had been born.” In 2016, when the U.S. Postal Service honored African Methodist Episcopal Church founder Richard Allen with a postage stamp, Raboteau told Religion News Service: “The unwillingness of the Methodists to accept the independent leadership of black preachers like Allen and the institution of segregated seating led Allen and (clergyman Absalom) Jones to found independent black churches.” Late in life, Raboteau continued to interpret religious and racial history lessons in his 2016 book American Prophets: Seven Religious Radicals and Their Struggle for Social and Political Justice. He said the book, which included chapters on Rabbi Abraham Joshua Heschel, the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr., and Fannie Lou Hamer, was based on his “Religious Radicals” seminar that he taught undergraduate students at Princeton for several years. Raboteau wrote the book’s introduction as the U.S. marked the 50th anniversary of Alabama’s Selma to Montgomery voting march. “Memory and mourning combine in prophetic insistence on inner change and outer action to reform systemic structures of racism,” he said. Raboteau added an anecdote about his own visit to Selma several years before with Princeton alumni and students who visited a museum close to the town’s famous Edmund Pettus Bridge, where state troopers had once beaten back activists. On the trip, a black museum guide who was beaten on the bridge as a young girl encountered a retired white Presbyterian minister who had joined the demonstrations after King requested support from the nation’s clergy. “It was a moment of shared pathos that transcended time,” he recalled. “For me, it was the high point of the trip. I no longer needed to cross the bridge.” ❏❏❏
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CONGRATULATORY LISTINGS
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*Purple font connotes Episcopal Family; Red font, General Officers; and Blue font, Connectional Officers. On Friday, August 6, 2021, Pastor Ammie L. Davis successfully defended her Ph.D. research at Regent University in Organizational Leadership with an emphasis on Ecclesial Leadership. The title was, “Understanding the Self-Efficacy and Call of Jarena Lee: A Narrative Case Study.” Her research question was, “How does self-efficacy research inform the recognition and response to the call of African American female ecclesial leaders as evident in the life and ministry of Jarena Lee?” The research focus unearthed Jarena Lee’s self-efficacy in her religious experience despite being rejected. Lee’s strong conviction in her ability to achieve demonstrates how self-efficacy influenced how she recognized and responded to her call to preach in a society that was hostile to her gender and race. Pastor Ammie L. Davis is the senior pastor at Zion Chapel AME Church in Hattiesburg, Mississippi, and the state director for Child Evangelism Fellowship of Mississippi, Inc. She earned a B.S. degree in Business Administration and Human Resource Management from Southern New Hampshire University, M.A. degree in Management and Leadership from Webster University, M.B.A. degree from Webster University, and M.Div. degree with a concentration in Psychology of Religion and Pastoral Care and Counseling from Turner Theological Seminary at the Interdenominational Theology Center. Congratulatory messages may be emailed to pastorzcame@gmail.com. The Rev. and Mrs. Charles (Jeanette P.) Singleton of Awendaw, South Carolina, gratefully and joyfully say, “Thank you, Jesus! Thank you, Lord, as you continuously allow us to walk together in oneness for 64 years” (September 7, 1957-2021). This marriage has taken us many places and acquainted us with many beautiful people. It gave us beautiful children, daughter, Charnette E. Singleton; son, Charles P. Singleton (Gwendolyn); son, Charlton P. Singleton (MaryJo); and grandchildren. We are blessed to still be active participants in many organizations. So, the Rev. Singleton, as a proud retired pastor of the AME Church, and Mrs. Singleton, as a proud life member of the Women’s Missionary Society of the AME Church, say, “To God be the glory!” Congratulatory messages may be emailed to jeanettepsing@att.net. Master Jacob Cuthbert III was certified by the Programs of Religious Activities (P.R.A.Y.) as a Four Star Award Recipient. P.R.A.Y. Programs is a Bible-based religious emblems program for Protestant and Independent Christian churches designed to bring youth and families to Christ. The P.R.A.Y. program (God & Me (Grades 2-3), God & Family (Grades 4-6), God & Church (Grades 6-8), and God & Life (Grades 9-12)) has impacted the lives of thousands of youths nationwide. The Jesus & Me (K-1) curriculum has recently been added to the series. The P.R.A.Y. Four Star Award is a very prestigious one. Candidates must start in the first, second, or third grade and as the name implies, they must earn all four P.R.A.Y. awards. Less than one percent of the P.R.A.Y. recipients in any year receive this prestigious award. Master Cuthbert has been certified by P.R.A.Y. for this special commendation. The Four Star pin features four gold stars on a red, yellow, blue, and green background. The four colors represent the four levels in the series, but the stars are reminiscent of Matthew 5:16, “Let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father in heaven.” Jacob is a member of Saint Mark AME Church, Orlando, where the Rev. Terence R. Gray I serves as the pastor. Saint Mark celebrates Jacob’s accomplishments because they are for the glory of God. It is our prayer that he will continue to live his life in such a way that others will see Christ in him and give God the glory. If your church is interested in completing one or all of the P.R.A.Y. Program series, please contact P.R.A.Y. at https:// www.praypub.org/pray. Jacob is the son of the Rev. Dr. Missiouri McPhee, the Connectional secretary for the Association of African Methodist Episcopal Scouts (AAMES), secretary for the 11th Episcopal District Board of Christian Education, dean of the Board of Examiners for the Central Annual Conference, and minister of Worship at Saint Mark.
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
...From The Grace p1
other than piano and organ, was forbidden to be used in the sanctuary. I remember pastors stating that using drums and guitars during worship was bringing “the world” into the solemnity of God’s worship. Over time, pastors saw the efficacy of incorporating percussive instrumentation, when done musically and reverently correctly, enhanced the spirituality of the worship experience. Change can be a way to teach younger worshippers the beauty of the music of the past! Over the years, I’ve transitioned older hymns rhythmically. This, even in small doses, shows younger worshippers that older music is relevant and older worshippers the sustained beauty and meaning of the song. This can only be done if we, music directors and musicians, embrace the change. If music departments and musicians remain stagnant, the worship experience becomes stale.
God wants the worship experience to be experiential, reverent, yet meaningful. One of the greatest attributes music directors and musicians can bring to worship is to make it inclusive for all worshippers. This inclusivity must incorporate various types of music in which all congregants feel God’s presence. This can only be done by embracing change. This change cannot be done for the sake of change but for the glorification of God. Change can mean knowing when to step aside! As with spiritual growth, musical growth will occur. However, there will come a time when we, as music directors and musicians, must realize the time to let go. This letting go often means stepping aside and allowing others to build on what has been established and, possibly, make changes. When that time comes, step aside with grace and allow the changes to take place, yet, always be a place for encouragement and constructive evaluation of what is taking place. ❏ ❏ ❏
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NECROLOGY LISTINGS
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SEPTEMBER 2021
*Purple font connotes Episcopal Family; Red font, General Officers; and Blue font, Connectional Officers. The Rev. Andreas Anthony Oliphant, age 53, an itinerant deacon for three months in the AME Church, served the following churches as a supply pastor in the Boland Annual Conference in the 15th Episcopal District: GD Van Stavel AME Church, Van Wyksvlei, and Elim AME Church. He was married to Mrs. Deirdre Oliphant for 26 years The Rev. Jeremiah Witbooi, age 49, an itinerant elder for two years in the AME Church, serving with distinction: WC Legolie AME Church, Calvinia and Hope AME Church, Kraaifontein in the Boland Annual Conference in the 15th Episcopal District and served as a member of the Conference Board of Trustees Mr. Jeff Herndon, the brother of the Rev. Dr. J. Wayne Rogers, the pastor of Bethel AME Church in Hope, Arkansas, West Arkansas Annual Conference, 12th Episcopal District Sister Eleanor Neal Parker, of Macon, Georgia, the sister of Lady Sharon E. Williams and sister-in-law of the Rev. Ronald E. Williams, Sr., the pastor of New Bethel AME Church in Orlando, Florida, 11th Episcopal District Mr. John P. Ashworth IV, a member of Greater Bethel AME Church in Nashville, Tennessee, the son of the late Rev. John P. and Mrs. Josephine Ashworth, retired pastor and first lady in the 13th Episcopal District Mr. Idus “Cicero” Hartsfield, the brother of Supervisor Penny Hartsfield White and
brother-in-love of Bishop John Franklin White, Episcopal team of the 4th Episcopal District The Rev. Mary Georgina Akende Muyunda, the pastor of Beautiful Gate in the Livingstone Presiding Elder District, Southeast Zambia Annual Conference, 17th Episcopal District. She was the mother of four, Alvin, Paul, Naomi, and Tilipo, and grandmother to 18 The Rev. Derwood Doyle Wilson, age 86, of Huntsville, Alabama. He was the grandfather of the Rev. Maurice Wright II, the servant pastor of St. John AME Church in Huntsville, Alabama, Northwest Alabama Conference of the 9th Episcopal District, and the director of Music and Christian Arts Ministry of the AME Church ,
The Rev. Dr. Patricia Ann Efiom, the senior pastor of Ebenezer AME Church in Evanston (2010-2016), after which she served as the pastor of Greater St. James AME Church in Gary, Indiana. She was also the chief equity officer for the city of Evanston, 4th Episcopal District Elder Olivia C. Johnson, the sister of the Rev. Claude Harrison and sister-in-law of the Rev. Aquinette Harrison, the pastor of New Bethel AME Church, Lacoochee, Florida, 11th Episcopal District Mr. Thomas Cornelius Robertson, the brother of Mother Carrie R. Grady, ret. Episcopal supervisor; the uncle of the Rev. Carey A. ,
Grady, the pastor of Reed Chapel AME Church in Lancaster District, Columbia Annual Conference; Felita Grady Hicks, Columbia Annual Conference WMS president and uncle-in-love of the Rev. George Hicks, the pastor of Allen Chapel AME Church, Lancaster District, Columbia Annual Conference of the 7th Episcopal District Retired Episcopal Supervisor Lucinda Crawford Belin, the wife of Ret. Bishop Henry Allen Belin, Jr., the 104th elected and consecrated bishop in the AME Church; the mother of the Rev. Dr. Henry Allen Belin III (Rita), the pastor of First AME Church in Bethel, New York, New York; the Rev. Dr. Toni Belin Ingram (Raymond), the presiding elder of the Augusta North Augusta District; and the Rev. Dr. Roderick D. Belin, the president/publisher of AME Church Sunday School Union ,
Mrs. Leila McDaniel Hughes, the mother of Mrs. Pradensia Drayton, the area consultant and mother-in-law of the Rev. Dr. Sandy W. Drayton, the presiding elder of the Georgetown District in the Palmetto South Carolina Annual Conference of the 7th Episcopal District Mother Seretha Bookert Reeves, the mother of the Rev. Dr. Maxine Sumpter, the pastor of Youngs Chapel AME Church in Irmo, South Carolina, Columbia District, Columbia South Carolina Annual Conference and the Rev. Rhudene Toomer, the pastor of Mt. Olive AME Church in Kinard, South
Carolina, Newberry District in the Columbia South Carolina Annual Conference. She was the mother of the church at St. Paul AME Church in Irmo of the 7th Episcopal District Mr. Gennie Florence, Sr., age 87, the father of Lady M. Gail (Florence) Hunter and fatherin-law of Presiding Elder Bruce W. Hunter, South Birmingham Huntsville Bessemer District in the Northwest Alabama Conference of the 9th Episcopal District Minister Patricia Jones Kelly, the mother of Minister Lisa Lauray and Minister Laray Lauray; the daughter of the late Rev. F.W. Jones, Sr., the former secretary of the East Florida Conference; the sister of the Rev. Charles M. Jones, Sr. (Carrie), the retired pastor, East Florida Conference, the Rev. Alfred D. Jones (E. Mae, the president of South Conference, Clergy Family), the retired pastor in the South Annual Conference, Bishop Dr. Alvin L. Jones, Sr. (Mae), and Bishop Frank W. Jones, Jr. (Peggy), Apostle Faith Miracle Church, Jacksonville, Florida; and other nephews, nieces, and cousins pastoring in the 11th Episcopal District Presiding Elder Albert Moore, Jr., who retired from the former Northeast Texas Annual Conference of the 10th Episcopal District Mr. Eskew McKinsley Roberts, Sr., the brother of the Rev. J.C. Roberts, the presiding elder of the Albany North District, 6th Episcopal District
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
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OCTOBER 2021
The Christian Recorder
CONNECTIONALNEWS
WE ARE STILL THE VILLAGE
By Rosemary Range, FCE
The African Methodist Episcopal Church has many facets that equip, mentor, and enhance the life of a believer. The Fellowship of Christian Education (FCE) is that entity that provides such an experience. Membership in this organization is open to all church educators who have been appointed to serve in the teaching ministry at all connectional levels. When I was a small child in the African Methodist Episcopal Church, we had a Christian Education Director (CED) who was loving yet stern, and because of her love of the Lord, her teaching was much more prioritized. The children would feign to pass her without being corrected; however, I desired her tenacity. She would teach about the altar and what it should mean to a believer. She taught respect for the sanctuary. She imparted that the space between the first pew to the chancel rail was just as holy as being up in the pulpit. We were taught that we couldn’t walk across the holy place, that we had to give reverence when we entered the sanctuary, and that, of course, we can’t stand on the kneeling place! Our director would take your hand and fold it over to spank your knuckles with the ruler. Oh yes, she was also a librarian at the public elementary school, just up the street from the church. It was a poor neighborhood but rich in love and the value of people. Yes, she was the conservative dresser, arms folded, gloves, hat, and manners to match. Not only was she the CED and Sunday School teacher, but she was also the Women’s Missionary Society (WMS) president, lay advocate, and a former connectional director. For her, everything began with the Lord’s service! My director also took the time to take as many who would participate to see the Desoto Caverns and New Jerusalem in Northern Alabama. Neighborhood children would be glad to go someplace outside of the norm. For years we learned the Catechism, the duties of the stewards, trustees, and other church officers. We attended the congresses and learned how to conduct ourselves down to wearing shower shoes. She taught about the laity and the various levels of the church—local, conference, district, Episcopal, and the connection. Yes, she became the apple of my learning and teaching eye. She helped with little love offerings of $2 now and again to encourage me and others to stay on the journey as she loved each child and met each need. In hindsight, I think she was as good as a surrogate mother. See, my mother was working in the “white folks” house, across the mountain; but, since my mother had to work, she trusted the director to teach her children about the God she believed. My dad was working as well. I often sit and wonder if she knew the impact she had on my life? After high school, I wanted a break from school, mostly because my parents had six children. It was hard for me to enter college until my director taught me about scholarships and grants, making college a reality. In my early twenties, I remember going to Bible study with the seasoned saints, where I was fed the word. No smooth over but the cut to the chase word of God. I thank her profusely now, for I know a God that some will never get to know because of a closed heart, mind, and hand. I recall one week that she trained me how to pray. I was informed that next week that I would lead the prayer. Feeling intimidated by the elders’ way of praying, I wrote and rehearsed word for word, the prayer. When the time came to lead, I couldn’t remember a word. Of course, she had me sit directly in front of her. She just smiled and said, “You tried to remember it, didn’t you?” I said, “Yes, ma’am.” She said, “Young lady, just talk to him just like you would your mom or dad.” And, thus began my prayer life. Thank God, mom; you sent us to learn the truth from an excellent, godly representative! Once, the elders were expounding on Matthew 13 about the sower, and I mentioned that the word was not for all persons but God’s people. A senior begged to differ, which brought pure delight and approval to Dr. Hattie Bryant Whitt Greene’s face. The pastor was called out of his study to join in the conversation. That instance showed me always to have scripture ready as the epitome of your instruction, for its God’s word, not mine. As we discussed the lesson, we all learned that age does not make a difference, for we all learn as we seek his face. Fellowship of Christian Educators is a department that helps with a person’s education. In our overseas connection, where most poverty-stricken areas are, and throughout the U.S., we have such a leader who wants to support others. We meet to assist the newly appointed commissioner, Presiding Prelate, Frank Madison Reid III, Executive Christian Education director, ...continued on p15
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“WHAT DO YOUNG PEOPLE WANT?” DIALOGUE IN THE 21ST CENTURY CHURCH By Jordan DeVeaux
What do young Christians want? For much of my Christian journey, particularly as a participant in ministry, variations of the same question have been asked of me rather frequently. It may be presented through the lens of church growth and retention or simply a neutral curiosity. However, regardless of the motivations behind asking, the inquiries all boil down to the same idea— what do young people want from the church? From desires for town halls and community forums to the conception of individual podcasts, the answer is painfully obvious. And while I try my best to be careful about speaking on behalf of other people without their consent, I would argue that young people, across generations, desire one thing in particular: dialogue, not only to be heard but understood. Young people in the AME Church today have been barraged with a range of topics that many of us, if we are truly honest with ourselves, too wonder about quite a bit. From LGBTQIA marriage rights to the Israel-Palestine conflict, young Christians and older Christians alike are grappling with how Jesus would engage in these conversations if he were present physically on earth with us today.
So, where do we begin? The first step in embracing healthy dialogue about difficult topics in our churches is to make a very important distinction—dialogue versus debate. This distinction is critical because if the vehicle of dialogue is mishandled, the church could easily end up doing more harm than good. Dialogue is the process of entering a space with differing points of view and aiming to leave the conversation able to explain the other person’s point of view. The goal of dialogue is understanding. On the contrary, the focus of debate is invalidating the other perspective and uplifting my own. The goal of debate is winning. The Institute for Islamic, Christian, and Jewish Studies has a tremendous breakdown of this distinction here: https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=BHnmysaDuNY.
Is there no room for debate in the church? So, is there no room for debate in religious life? What about apologetics or the defense of the faith? There absolutely is. Debate is not inherently bad. There are select scenarios that call for healthy debate. For instance, we should engage in debate as an exercise in conversations to better understand our own points of view. It instead should be used intentionally and with the selfsacrificial love and the intellectual thoughtfulness that Christ models for us.
Does dialogue require me to be a spiritual relativist? Good question—not necessarily. As Christians, there are many absolutist positions we have chosen about things such as murder and assault. However, some things are a little less black and white. Dialogue requires all of us to lean into those nuances and shades of gray with our young people as we both aim to make sense of things with the word of God as our guide.
What does that look like? In order to fully incorporate dialogue into our churches, a few things need to happen first. We must eliminate power dynamics that make fruitful conversation challenging, own our areas of uncertainty, and humanize the clergy that pour into us. In a conversation with a high school student earlier this year, I was truly shaken by his conviction. He said, “I think I would respect the church much more if preachers were comfortable saying that they don’t know.” These three things are requirements for best dialogue practices to essentially accomplish the same thing—level the ground on which we host this discussion. We must welcome opportunities to admit when absolute answers ...continued on p15
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The Christian Recorder
OCTOBER 2021
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EDWARD WATERS ENROLLMENT SKYROCKETS AS UNIVERSITY SHATTERS 1,000 STUDENT THRESHOLD FOR FIRST TIME IN NEARLY TWO DECADES Jacksonville, Florida – Overall enrollment at the newly named Edward Waters University (EWU) has increased by a stunning 14%, as marked at the close of its fall registration period on Friday, August 27, 2021. The phenomenal single-year, double-digit percentage enrollment increase culminated in a final fall 2021 enrollment count of 1104 students at Florida’s first Historically Black College or University (HBCU) and first private institution of higher education—the highest overall enrollment the institution has seen in close to twenty years. Relatedly, the university simultaneously welcomed its largest class of new students on record, as a total of 531 new students enrolled at the state of Florida’s and Jacksonville’s newest university, which represents a 27% increase in total newly enrolled students at EWU over fall 2020 and a 50% increase over fall 2019. “This tremendous development for our university is further evidence of our continuing advancement and forward movement as a ‘destination institution’ of choice amongst parents and prospective students who are increasingly selecting Edward Waters for their higher educational future,” said Dr. A. Zachary Faison, Jr., president and CEO of Edward Waters University. “We’re equally ecstatic that this year’s enrollment outcome is also indicative of substantial progress being made towards enhancing the retention of our Tiger students as this latest overall enrollment effort indicates that we were successful in retaining nearly 80% of our students from spring 2021 to fall 2021,” President Faison stated. Accordingly, and despite the challenges wrought by the COVID-19 pandemic, the university is experiencing a comprehensive institutional renaissance marked by remarkably rapid growth as this year makes the second consecutive year of increased total enrollment at EWU. This renaissance led to an awe-inspiring 18% increase in overall student enrollment over the past two academic years (i.e., overall student enrollment increased by 4% in fall 2020 and 14% in fall 2021). Accordingly, the university received nearly 7,000 applications for the current 2021-2022 academic year, representing a 17% increase in total applications received by the university over fall 2020. ...From “What Do…” p14
escape us, no matter how uncomfortable that is. Why? Because it is easier to seek the God that knows the answer alongside someone that loves and respects you than someone you see as your opponent.
What makes you so sure? In closing, I would like to demonstrate this practice now. How am I sure that this is the answer? I’m not. But, I hope in these reflections, it has become clear why this is my authentic stance. Thank you for engaging in this dialogue with me. ❏ ❏ ❏ ...From We Are p14 the Rev. Dr. Garland Pierce, and our FCE director, Robin
Porter-Smith, who is adamant about the project to help others. All the board members are lovingly trying to push the FCE forward, as to touch all 20 districts’ Christian Education directors. Perhaps the fruition of a multi-level Connectional teaching curriculum down to the local level can be unified for our growth! The 15th and 20th districts already have been the recipients of the FCE scholarship. Upcoming is the 14th and 18th districts, then back to the 16th and 13th districts. We get around and pray you will join us in growing the FCE. You may find us on www.ameced/church.org. Ready, set, go! We could use every Districts’ Christian Education director to help with many more scholarships and more togetherness…. hence, connected! We are still the village! $40.00 membership fee includes a subscription to The Journal of Christian Education. Join online or mail checks payable to Fellowship of Church Educators to the Rev. Dr. Madonna Gray • Fellowship of Church Educators • PO Box 1346 • Aliquippa, PA 15001 CONNECTIONALNEWS
“This incredibly positive enrollment outcome was the result of a lot of really hard work by all of the members of our cross-institutional SERT (Strategic Enrollment an Retention Team) and particularly Mr. Kendrick Dunklin, and o executive director of Enrollment Management, whose team our w worked collaboratively to achieve this signature high overall and n new student enrollment mark,” said EWU vice president for E Enrollment Management and Strategic Matriculant Services, Dr. Je Jennifer Price. In addition, the overall competitive profile for this year’s n newest collection of Tiger scholar students is equally notable as th the average grade point average amongst those entering EWU, th class of 2025, is an impressive 3.05, up from the reported the 2 2.86-grade point average (GPA) of last year’s new student class. Moreover, this fall, the university is also excited to welcome it third consecutive cohort of high achieving students who its ar members of the “Gamma Cohort” of the EWU Honors are C College. This third iteration of twenty dynamically talented an academically gifted Tiger scholars whose high school and G GPA averaged 3.94 included a class valedictorian and a student who earned a nearly 6.0 GPA. Among the 53 new students matriculating at EWU this fall, are 531 ov 30 of the institution’s first ever graduate students over en enrolled in EWU’s new fully online Masters of Business A Administration (M.B.A.) program. As a collective, the gr graduate students in EWU’s inaugural graduate program bo boast an impressive series of resumes with an average 33.1 undergraduate GPA while hailing from locales from th throughout the state of Florida and the country, including O Ohio, Texas, and Alabama. “After developing a comprehensive enrollment management and marketing plan that focused on retention and recruitment, we have met our enrollment goal for the fall 2021 semester. This grand accomplishment would not have been possible without the strategic direction of our superlative president & CEO, Dr. A. Zachary Faison, Jr.,” said provost and senior vice president for Academic Affairs, Dr. Donna H. Oliver. ❏ ❏ ❏
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OCTOBER 2021
The Christian Recorder
CONNECTIONALNEWS
CONNECTIONAL AME WIM OFF TO A ROARING START With over 600 participants in attendance, the first post-General Conference Connectional AME Church Women in Ministry (AMEWIM) General Membership Meeting convened on Saturday, September 11, 2021, by our second term president, the Rev. Dr. Erika D. Crawford, D.Min. Due to ongoing safety concerns related to the ongoing coronavirus/COVID-19 pandemic, the meeting was held virtually. AMEWIM General Membership Meetings will be held quarterly (12/11/21, 3/12/22, and 6/11/22). AMEWIM was delighted to welcome our new Commission chair, the 142nd elected and consecrated bishop in the life and work of the AME Church, Bishop Frederick A. Wright, Sr., who brought greetings to the body. As the son of the first female presiding elder appointed in the continental United States, the Rev. Cornelia Wright, Bishop Wright is sensitive to the challenges of women in ministry and is apt to help chart the course of our work for the remainder of the quadrennium. The Connectional Executive Board elected to serve in leadership are: the Rev. Dr. Erika D. Crawford, Connectional president; the Rev. Dr. Ammie Davis, Connectional first vice-president; the Rev. Joelynn T. Stokes, Esq., Connectional second vicepresident; the Rev. Tyronda Howse Burgess, Connectional third vice-president; the Rev. Dr. Louise Jackson, general secretary; the Rev. Bettye J. Watson, communications secretary; the Rev. Robin Truitt, Connectional financial secretary; the Rev. Angelique Mason, Connectional treasurer; the Rev. Carolyn Baskin Bell, Connectional herstorigrapher; the Rev. Dr. Emily Pardue, Connectional director of Liturgy & Worship; and the Rev. Mamphethe Beatrice Motokoa (PE), Central Southern Africa coordinator. We were blessed by the Rev. Sandra Smith Blair’s presentation on the Herstory of AMEWIM leadership. Dr. Crawford admonished the assembly to be selective in its election of leadership at all levels as elections have consequences—even AME elections. Therefore, she emphasized that leadership should (1) exhibit a commitment to AMEWIM and its directives; (2) engage advocacy and action as it relates to women in ministry; (3) seek allies and create access to resources; (4) participate at every level of AMEWIM; and (5) understand the historical and practical movements of the church. Dr. Crawford was careful to note that AMEWIM is not a women’s club but a ministry that takes seriously its objectives. AMEWIM were also encouraged to support each other and to view our male colleagues as allies and not enemies. The Rev. Joelynn T. Stokes, Esq., addressed the changes to the AMEWIM Bylaws passed at the 51st Quadrennial Session of the General Conference, which mainly expanded the eligibility of women to serve in WIM leadership. The newly constituted AMWIM Executive Board, elected at the seat of the 51st Session of the General Conference, and the Connectional Standing Committees were ...continued on p26
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THE CONNECTIONAL LAY ORGANIZATION (CLO) PRESIDENT MAKITI UNVEILS VISION FOR THE NEXT FOUR YEARS A month after Makiti’s historic election as the first everr African president of the Connectional Lay Organization (CLO), he moved expeditiously to unveil his vision at the CLO’s first Executive Board Meeting, held on Saturday, 21 August 2021. The vision will guide and direct the CLO for the next four (4) years and is premised on the overall mission and vision of the Lay Organization which is to teach, train, and provide greater leadership opportunities for the lay members of the African Methodist Episcopal Church. In his opening statement, Makiti emphasized that the CLO should strive to meet the needs and aspirations of the church’s lay persons including all auxiliaries because they are the CLO’s most important stakeholders. He further encouraged the Connectional Lay Organization executive board members ---- and by extension, their constituent members in the entire connection to have greater passion and enthusiasm for the Lay Ministry. It is our mission to always embrace, express, live, and emulate the values of servant leadership as were espoused by Jesus Christ, when transacting in God’s business and ensure that all decisions taken are in the interest of advancing the mission of the Lay Organization --- which is to teach, train and prepare our laypersons for greater leadership roles. The much-anticipated vision for the CLO for the 2021 – 2025 quadrennial prioritized teaching and training. President Makiti said that the CLO needed to continue to embark on programs that ensure that teaching and training remains the core of the CLO business. In this regard, the CLO embraces unity, collaboration with other auxiliaries to achieve personal and professional development of members in a caring and prayerful manner. He emphasized that all this would be achieved if the Lay Organization goes “back – to – basics” and introduces empowerment programs that will resonate with our lay members. “We will be introducing Masterclasses, Lectures on Leadership development, embark on Mentorship Academy and Exchange Programs amongst Episcopal districts” said Makiti. President Makiti further affirmed that he envisions the Connectional Lay Organization that is spiritually, biblically–based and anchored in prayer – a Lay Organization that could be a home where both new and old members of all ages can grow spiritually through programs that fulfil, nurture, and minister to the spiritual needs of our constituent members. As a connectional organization, President Makiti encouraged members to embrace global inclusion and participation, constantly learning from each other, embracing diversity, valuing and respecting the rights and views of all members regardless of where they originate – because “all voices matter.” He further implored members to continue to provide support to Episcopal districts 14- 20 and empower them through “Twinning Agreements” to allow for cross - pollination of teaching, training and empowerment and to provide support and collaboration on social action initiatives. Openness in communication is one of President Makiti’s passions – he therefore urged the CLO to communicate and listen to the members needs and requirements of the members whilst at the same time ensuring that members are well - informed and that communication is timely, relevant, and professional. This he stated will be done in a cohesive and collaborative manner to safeguard the integrity and brand image of the organization. It will also leverage technology using both traditional and social media to profile, market, and publicize the Lay Organization and its work. The CLO communication platforms and resource tools will be enhanced by embracing and utilizing current advancements in technology while embracing and enhancing the uptake of technology as a means of business communication. This will help bridge the digital divide amongst lay members, and the Episcopal districts. From the stakeholder perspective, President Makiti emphasized the need for the CLO to have sound and cordial relationships with the clergy. These congealed relationships will extend to the other auxiliaries in the church to determine their training needs and embark on joint programs and share training resources. For agility and future sustenance of the CLO, President ...continued on p17
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The Christian Recorder
OCTOBER 2021
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LOCAL AGREEMENT STRENGTHENS MINORITY STUDENT PARTICIPATION IN STEM A world-class provider of Information Technology (IT) and data management services and the nation’s first, private Historically Black College and University (HBCU) have strengthened a strategic partnership. CompTech Computer Technologies and Wilberforce University (Greene County, Ohio) will now collaborate to increase the presence of underserved youth participation in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM). In a recently signed document, the university and the company agreed that CompTech will provide a total of $50,000 in educational programs and professionally crafted internships to Wilberforce University STEM instructors and students enrolled in STEM curriculum. This joint venture is designed to move both parties to improve the minority presence in IT and provide financial support for the university. “We Dr. Nam Dr. Owusu Allayah Hughes are going to be able to offer some courses that are available in the market. We will offer certificate courses in data science, cybersecurity, blockchain technology, and in addition to their degrees, students will be ready for companies that are hungry for Wilberforce students” said Dr. Owusu-Nyamekye Dwobeng, the chair of Professional Studies. Dr. Dwobeng says STEM companies are looking for skill sets in micro-credentials. Earning a related degree from Wilberforce will now include the extra expertise which will prepare Wilberforce students to compete at the top of their class. Initially, the partnership will revolve around internships, mentorship, and Federal Bid support. With time, the team will also collaborate on career services and curriculum design. ‘’This will allow the development of hands-on, practical application programs. Eventually, the university will be able to offer academic curricula with new or extended courses based on this new direction,” said Dr. Deok Nam, a professor in Computer Science. It’s great news for the university’s students like senior Allayah Hughes. The computer engineering major says this announcement has come at a great time for herself and other students who are STEM majors. ‘’I’m so excited about this. Thank you, CompTech, for giving this opportunity to our school. I hope this will encourage more students to apply to computer science and computer engineering majors,” said Allayah Hughes, Wilberforce, class of ’22. The company’s charitable arm, Sci-Tech, partners with local schools, churches, colleges, and the communities Founded in 1856, Wilberforce University is the in Dayton’s surrounding areas to bring nation’s first private Historically Black College and awareness to the lack of diversity and University (HBCU). Located in Greene County a inclusion in computer science and near Dayton, Ohio, it is a member of the United in computer technology fields for people of Negro College Fund (UNCF), the Ohio Library Link c color. ‘’CompTech is excited to begin this Consortium, and the Association of Intercollegiate c partnership which will revolve around Athletics (NAIA). According to HBCU.com, p internships, mentorships, and Federal Wilberforce is one of the top five HBCUs in the in Bid midwest. B support. With time, the team will also collaborate on career services and Headquartered in Dayton, Ohio, CompTech is a curriculum design. The program will be a world-class provider of IT and data management c ever-changing, transforming to fit the needs services, including Help Desk Center operations, e of facilities management, database development, data o the students, Wilberforce University, and maintenance, web services, security services, network a the ever-changing IT community,” said Kristen Roberts, CompTech Computer design and administration, software engineering K Technologies, Inc. and systems integration, medical lab operation and T management, and a variety of related, specialized technical r services. Using its recruiting, s quality management, and service q delivery processes, CompTech d ensures each project is managed e efficiently and with the highest e quality standards applied at every q opportunity in order to achieve o maximum customer satisfaction. m ❏❏❏ ...From The Connectional p16
Makiti emphasized the need to provide an opportunity to young adults to develop relevant and pointed programs aimed at growing their participation in the organization. President Makiti, however, raised concerns around the dwindling membership numbers in all Episcopal districts. He advised the CLO to carefully evaluate its efforts in the past years and identify the most effective tools to reach as many members as possible. He further advised the CLO to refine its recruitment and retention strategy and use research to determine why membership is not growing. Regarding the CLO resources, President Makiti reiterated his commitment to maintain healthy financial management and long-term fiscal health. Important to mention was the fact that the 2021 Biennial Session CONNECTIONALNEWS
ended in the green. He urged the CLO to look at other income generating streams such as corporate funding and sponsorships to ensure that the CLO’s finances are always in a healthy state. For an effective administration, President Makiti emphasized the need for collaboration to utilize the resources better and effectively, as well as streamlining processes, working through clusters to promote unity, peace, and collaboration, to avoid unnecessary duplication of functions. He also mentioned the importance of preserving the CLO history and nurturing the heritage and tradition of the CLO as the luminous, glorious, and inspiring organization. “All of the above will not come alive if the CLO does
not have an implementable and sound strategy that is realistic and can be measured. Our focus and priority in this tenure, will be on performance assessment by the 2nd vice president and the Organizational Effectiveness Committee and report back to the president and the Executive Board,” said Makiti. President Makiti expressed gratitude to God for allowing him to serve again and thanked all who supported and prayed for him during his journey. He also thanked the Executive Board and members who continue to support him as he leads the Connectional Lay Organization to a higher trajectory by quoting from 1 Samuel 7:12: “Then Samuel took a stone, and set it between Mizpah and Shen, and named it ‘Ebenezer,’ saying – ‘Thus far, the Lord has helped us…’” To God be the glory! ❏ ❏ ❏
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OCTOBER 2021
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THE BROWN CHAPEL STORY By E. Ann Clemons, 9th Episcopal District
Brown Chapel AME Church’s heritage in civil rights was destined by our founder Bishop Richard Allen and its namesake Bishop John Mifflin Brown, ordained in 1868. According to referenced readings on Bishop Brown, he was an important activist in the Underground Railroad before he was ordained, and he worked with Frederick Douglass and others to push for the Civil Rights Act of 1875. In 1965, at the request of the Reverend P.H. Lewis, Sr., Bishop Isaiah Bonner consented for Brown Chapel AME Church to be used as headquarters for organizing the Selma-Montgomery March. It was the gathering place for SNCC, SCLC, and CORE along with local activists, Amelia and Sam Boynton, F.D. Reese, Marie Foster, and many others, for strategizing marching to the state capitol of Alabama to demand justice from then governor, George Wallace, not only for the murder of Jimmie Lee Jackson, but to demand the right for African Americans to register to vote! The collaborative and strategic planning that took place at Brown Chapel African Methodist Episcopal Church has been written about in almost every book about civil rights history. Great books such as Eyes on the Prize, by Juan Williams, Walking with the Wind, by John Lewis, In Peace and Freedom-My Journey in Selma, Bernard LaFayette, Jr. and Kathryn Lee Johnson, Jimmie Lee & James, Two Lives, Two Deaths and the Movement that Changed America, Steve Fiffer & Adar Cohen, the Reverend Dr. C.T. Vivian’s “Its in the Action” and
many others, when recalling one of the most pivotal protests for voting rights in the history of America –“Bloody Sunday”! The protest for voting rights during those tumultuous days involved many of the youth of Selma, such as Jim Webb, Joanne Bland, Sheyanne Webb-Christburg, Lynda Lowery, the 15-year-old and the youngest to walk the entire 54-mile trek to Montgomery. Brown Chapel served, of course, as a place of refuge for those protestors who were attacked on the Edmund Pettus Bridge that horrific day on March 7, 1965. The attack did not end at the peak of the bridge, the marchers were driven all the way back to Brown Chapel where they sought cover from the residual effects of tear gas and the violence from police/Klan attack. If the walls of this historic church could talk, you would hear Dr. Martin Luther King giving instructions for the Selma-Montgomery March or James Bevel vehemently stating that he would walk to Montgomery, if he had to walk alone. He did not walk alone… thousands walked with him. Annually, the late John Lewis would bring the entire Black Caucus members and other members of Congress to Brown Chapel for the most memorable worship service you could ever imagine. The Reverend Leodis Strong, pastor of Brown Chapel, extended the honor of keynote speaker to the Ninth Episcopal District’s presiding prelate, Bishop
Harry L. Seawright, in March 2018. In March 2020, p presidential candidate, Joe Biden, was tthe keynote speaker. However, the aaudience was more enamored and eexcited by the charm and message ffrom Stacey Abrams, advocate, and aactivist of the Fair Count Movement. L Longtime activists Jesse Jackson, Al S Sharpton, Poor People Campaign d director, Dr. William Barber, and the o outspoken Rowland Martin are just an eexample of the kind of presence the annual jubilee brings to Selma and Brown Chapel African Methodist Episcopal Church. Brown Chapel AME Church was named a National Historic Landmark in 1997. Visitors synonymously list Brown Chapel AME Church with the Edmund Pettus Bridge on their “must see” list of stops on the civil rights trail in Alabama. Joy Kinard, superintendent of the Tuskegee Institute National Historic Site, the Tuskegee Airmen National Historic site, and the Selma to Montgomery National Historic Trail, commented at the June 22, 2020 ribbon cutting about the 1.3 million dollar award from the African American Civil Rights Grant Program that will help to preserve and protect sites associated with the struggle for equality from the transatlantic slave trade forward, which is one other thing that the National Park Service does to preserve the African American experience. ❏ ❏ ❏
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KEEPING CLERGY SAFE By Rev. Renita Green, Columnist
My good friend caught COVID-19 last month. He is vaccinated, working from home, and wears a mask when he rarely leaves the house. Another friend of mine was a healthy man in his late forties before COVID-19 attacked his lungs. He is now on oxygen 24-hours-a-day and awaiting a double lung transplant. He, too, considered himself to be cautious. It seems like it is only a matter of time before most of us get sick. The way this virus attacks the body is a crapshoot. No one knows how his or her body will react. While pastoring in the local church, I was more afraid of getting sick than I talked about. Mostly, I was nervous about being asymptomatic and carrying it to vulnerable people I served at the church and in the community. What if I made someone irreversibly sick? I was nervous about being uninsured. I thought about what it would mean to my children if long-term care was needed—how my sickness would adversely impact their lives. I thought about the fact that I had no savings, no retirement, no investments, and no social security building up. I thought about the burdens my children would have to bear for the sake of my call. I wondered if this was an unfair burden or if it was just par for the course. I thought about dying. I thought about what my departure would mean to my children and grandchildren. They often pleaded with me to be more cautious. I found myself often praying that the Holy Spirit would keep their hearts—that bitterness would not take root. Like many pastors—57%, according to Pastoral Care, Inc.—I lived in poverty. I know we do not like the way this sounds, but it is true, especially for many who are single and do not have a primary full-time job. Many single clergy serve without the covering of our spouse’s income and benefits. Many of us exist without much more to live on than what it takes to meet basic needs. Although I do not know the actual numbers, I believe it would be fair to assert that women clergy are impacted at a higher rate than male clergy. These days, the reality is that most congregations are not able to support a pastor fully. Bi-vocational ministry should be expected of most clergy—but this is a different topic for another day. These COVID-19 days have us assuming a greater health risk than we have had to assume at any other time in the recent memory of the church. The stress and strain of COVID-19 are taking a toll that many who are pastoring hesitate to talk about. When we have talked about the toll among ourselves, we have lamented (to each other) how our faith has been judged—as if by not being excited to reopen our churches and by taking precautions, we have less faith than those who have boldly opened their doors. We have talked about how death and illness have been heavy weights upon our shoulders. One pastor friend tried having this conversation with [his or her] stewards, who chastised the pastor for not casting [his or her] cares upon the Lord. Clergy friends have shared how this pandemic has also taken its toll on our sense of purpose, value, relevance, and effectiveness. Many of us have had to become technology experts. We have had to figure out how to “compete” with virtual options that far exceed our human and financial resources. We have had to find new and creative ways to engage our congregations and community.
People are longing to be in the sacred space—for the connection, comfort, and community that is found most fully in our togetherness. We, too, want the church to be open. We want people experiencing the power of God’s love and relishing in the gift of life that comes from the indwelling presence of the divine in the way that happens so joyfully when we are together—physically. So much of the conversation about reopening guidelines and keeping people safe has been centered around congregation and community. So many pastors, however, will not talk about the risks and concerns we have for ourselves and our families. In the swirl of discerning this path, we also have to maintain buildings and budgets, and for many, this is in addition to working a secular job. The Pastoral Care, Inc. survey also revealed that 70% of pastors have lower self-esteem after entering ministry than they did prior to answering the call. COVID-19 ministry challenges have added to the many ways in which we feel inadequate. There is a lot of fear, shame, and guilt involved when speaking about our own vulnerabilities. We are concerned about being rejected by the people. We are worried that the congregation will begin wandering away—disengaging—and that the church will fold because we were too cautious. We question our own resilience and faith walk—we ask ourselves questions like, “Do I really trust God?” We feel selfish for being concerned about our own health and our families—and feel unfaithful to our families at the same time. All of this is overwhelming. It is overwhelming to the point that we just are not talking about it at all—not too publicly, at least. Pastoral Care, Inc. reports that pre-COVID-19 pastors worked an average of 55-75 hours weekly. Most will attest to the fact that their hours have increased during the pandemic. Pastoral Care, Inc. reports that 1500 clergy are leaving the pulpit daily. Most of the time, we keep going until we just cannot go anymore. We burn out and check out. This cannot be what God had in mind for those called to serve the kingdom. COVID-19 does not weigh a person’s faith, neither does it skip over those who are essential workers in the kingdom. Pastors do not do a good job of caring for ourselves—this is where the leaders and congregation can help. Reopening plans must include plans to mitigate risks for clergy, a physical and financial care plan for pastors who may contract COVID-19, and a care plan to keep clergy emotionally well that includes respite every six weeks or less. Keeping clergy safe requires strong lay leadership who will both insist to the pastor and on behalf of the pastor. Most often, when the pastor knows that the church is intact without them, the pastor is better able to accept respite as a ministry and be more fully present in their own health and wellness. May the promise to Abram be manifested in the congregations who actively tend to the safety of the pastors, “I will bless those who bless you” (Genesis 12:3). You may read the entire referenced survey with statistics from The Fuller Institute, George Barna, Lifeway, Schaeffer Institute of Leadership Development, and Pastoral Care, Inc. at https://www.pastoralcareinc.com/statistics/. ❏ ❏ ❏
MANY IN FIRST DISTRICT MEET NEW BISHOP DURING VIRTUAL CHRISTIAN EDUCATION CONGRESS By Angelena Spears, 1st Episcopal District
A highlight for Christian Education in the First Episcopal District is the Rev. Dr. Earl L. Jefferson Christian Education Congress, held in July. This year’s virtual meeting was extra special because it included an opportunity to meet the newly appointed bishop, the Rt. Rev. Julius H. McAllister, Sr. (129th), and his wife, Episcopal Supervisor Joan Marla McAllister. According to the Rev. Carolyn Cavaness, over 1000 persons logged on to the two-day conference, which was accessible through Zoom and Facebook. The Rev. Cavaness, the pastor of Bethel AME Church in Ardmore, Pennsylvania, helped organize the event and coordinated ordering kits that included t-shirts with the conference’s theme: Re-imagining Ministry. Bishop McAllister said the appointment to the First District was a “coming home” for him and his wife. He explained that his ministry started in the New Jersey Annual Conference at Israel Memorial AME Church, Newark, New Jersey, and Mother McAllister was born and raised in Elizabeth, New Jersey, where she was a member of Mt. Teman AME Church. During a special “Meet the Bishop Town Hall” session, Bishop McAllister took questions from component leaders and shed light on what leadership under a “McAllister Episcopacy” would be like. Bishop McAllister promised, “You can expect transparency, accountability, and integrity.” He added, “You have received this before in the previous administration.” ...continued on p24
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OPENING PANDORA’S BOX: LARRY ELDER & THE FIGHT FOR REPARATIONS By D’Weston Haywood, Ph.D., Columnist
Larry Elder, the conservative author, radio show host, and gubernatorial candidate in California’s recent recall election, made statements recently that were certain to attract publicity to his campaign. Elder, who bills himself, the “Sage From South Central,” appeared on the right-wing Candace Owens Show, hosted by Candace Owens. The meeting marked a novel moment, perhaps, as the two represent the new cadre of modern black conservatives, who wield wide social media influence and have now emerged from or been reinvigorated by Trumpism. And it was on her show that Owens happily provided Elder the space to wax poetic, hammering a point that may have opened a proverbial Pandora’s Box. Elder asked, “When people talk about reparations, do they really want to have that conversation?” “Like it or not,” he continued, “slavery was legal. Slave owners’ legal property was taken away from them after the Civil War, so you could make an argument that the people who are owed reparations are not only black people but also the people whose ‘property’ was taken away.” Elder was even armed with a superficial citation to justify the argument, referencing Britain’s Slavery Abolition Act of 1833 that compensated British slave owners after its abolition. Yet, in his determination to reduce the owning of people to a simple equation of property rights, the “Sage” unwittingly blundered. For heuristic purposes, let’s entertain Elder’s proposition. The offer would necessarily demand a public accounting of who owned enslaved peoples, how many they owned when they owned them, whether they were sold off at any point, and if so, when and where they were sold. An appraisal of the sums of wealth they generated would also have to be documented, an effort that would
show the immense monetary value of the enslaved, points that the slaveocracy and Confederacy often downplayed. And the descendants of slaveowners would, of course, have to come forward to prove their authenticity in order to obtain the reparations. This public admission would root out and expose so many people’s longstanding denial of any involvement in the reprehensible institution. The meticulous and voluminous record-keeping this would likely entail might not only aid black people who are working to trace their family histories, but also open up avenues for descendants of slaves to bring legal cases against the newly financially empowered descendants of slaveowners. One of the leading scholars on reparations, economist William Darity, co-author of From Here to Equality: Reparations for Black Americans in the 21st Century, estimates that the cost of reparations for Black people could amass $10-$12 trillion. Ownership and property rights are mainstays of Republican and Libertarian thought, to be sure, but touting political ideology was not this Republican candidate’s point—rejecting and ridiculing the logic of black people’s legitimate claims on the state was—a classic page from the playbook of anti-blackness. Indeed, one of the arguments commonly raised against advocates of black reparations revolves around the question of who will pay and how. But Elder has provided at least one answer. ❏ ❏ ❏
ST. JOHN AME CHURCH, OMAHA, CELEBRATES FATHER’S DAY By Brenda “BJ” Watkins, 5th Episcopal District
Father’s Day is a holiday honoring fatherhood and paternal bonds and the influence of fathers in society. It is recognized as a public holiday in Lithuania. Arkansas-born Sonora Smart Dodd founded Father’s Day in the United States in 1909. Her father, William Jackson Smart Dodd, was a widowed American Civil War veteran. She and her father moved to Spokane, Washington, when she was 11. Dodd came up with the idea after attending a Mother’s Day Program at Central Methodist Episcopal Church. However, in 1924, President Calvin Coolidge urged the states to observe Father’s Day, and during his tenure, President Lyndon B. Johnson proclaimed every 3rd Sunday in June as Father’s Day. Finally, in 1972, President Richard Nixon made it an official legal day in the United States. Newspapers were not explicitly by the Rev. Keith D. Cornelius, shy or skillfully camouflaging their we continued this celebration and desire to exploit the new holiday; they the tradition by showing love to wanted to make money. One full-page our fathers on June 19, 2021. We told the story of a Spokane woman’s honored them through song, prayer, mission to give sons and daughters tambourines, and high spirits. an opportunity to express their Johnny Bluette, St. John’s own affections for their dads. So in big, YPDer, former Missionary Youth bold typed letters, the headline read, director, a teacher in the Omaha “Give Dad a Tie.” Ms. Dodd lived to public district for over 20 years, and see the fruition of her works. She died who recently earned his Ph.D. in on March 22, 1978, at the age of 96. Education (May 2021), started the So, here we are 112 years later, service with a rousing tribute to the still celebrating those we salute and living fathers and those who earned proudly call our dad, our adopted dad their wings. Our special guest speaker or foster dad, the brother, the uncle, was Emeritus Professor Dr. Carol the cousin, the youth community Taylor Mitchell, the twin sister of the leader, and yes, even the pastor who late 126th elected Bishop Sarah Francis Taylor Davis and the consecrated steps into the shoes of a father to fulfill presiding prelate of the 16th Episcopal an important role in a young child’s District in the African Methodist life. At the Historic St. John’s AME Episcopal Church, Bishop Marvin Church, Omaha, Nebraska, pastored
Cl d Zanders d II. Clyde Dr. Mitchell has been involved in the field of education, secular and Christian, for 53 years and she has taught and spoken locally, nationally, and internationally, including Jamaican Missionaries. She served with her sister in the 16th Episcopal District by conducting science and math workshops for teachers and students in Lesotho and Swaziland. In addition, she has written over 20 books. She is a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority. Dr. Mitchell hails from Port Arthur, Texas, and earned her undergraduate degree from North Texas State University, her Masters from Southern University
d her h in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, and Doctorate from the University of Nebraska of Lincoln. She taught chemistry and other sciences in the Omaha public district for 15 years. She later taught for 22 years at the University of Nebraska at Omaha in the College of Education, earning 21 awards, including The Legacy Award Empowerment Network from the University of Nebraska at Omaha. The theme for our Father’s Day celebration was “Leading by Example.” Dr. Mitchell tagged it as “Black Father’s Matter.” The scripture was Proverbs 4:11-12, and Deuteronomy 6:9-10. She definitely honored our fathers in grace and trust. ❏ ❏ ❏
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THOU SHALL NOT BE A THUG, PART 2 By Rev. Joseph Parker, 8th Episcopal District
The word of God in the heart of a young person can save him or her and mold and shape his or her character. That same word of God can give that youth grace and wisdom that can bless him or her for the rest of his or her life. Another recent tragic incident took place amongst three middle school-aged girls. The three girls left home, and while they were away from home, two of them attempted to murder the third young girl. One has to ask, “How in the world do young girls in middle school obtain the mind and thinking to want to kill someone that they indicated was their friend?” How does this happen? A major way this happens is that too often our society is filling the minds of our young people with toxic darkness from movies, the internet, and TV. As a result, they are literally being “discipled in darkness.” So, the question is, “What are we planting or allowing to be planted in the minds and hearts of our youth?” Are their minds filled with darkness that flows by the gallon from the internet, so many present-day TV and movies, and other dark input, or is the powerful word of God being planted into their hearts and minds? In the first chapter of James, we are told in verse 21: “Therefore rid yourselves of all sordidness and rank growth of wickedness, and welcome with meekness the implanted word that has the power to save your souls.” The word of God can save us, mold us, shape us, guide us, and do so much more. There is nothing that our youth need more in their lives than the precious and powerful word of God. Exodus 20:2-3 says, “I am the Lord your God, who brought you out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of slavery; you shall have no other gods before me.” Psalm 119:105 tells us, “[God’s] word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” Every child in the world is created and designed by God to work and function in life, most fruitfully, as a student of the word of God. Each child is made to live a life and lifestyle of reading, meditating on, and engaging the word of God. Nothing will bless, guide, mold, and shape a child more productively than the word of God when it fills in the heart and mind of a child. We, the church of the Lord Jesus Christ, are called to disciple our youth and to teach and train them to read and study the blessed word of God. The Ten Commandments Project is one way to boldly and aggressively pursue discipling our youth. As followers of Christ, we are wise to use a tool like this or others we may develop for the same purpose. Find out more about the Ten Commandments Project at http://www.afa.net/the-stand/family/2021/06/the-tencommandments-project-boldly-discipling-our-youth/. So, when it comes to really doing the work of discipling our youth, let’s take this work very seriously. Let’s faithfully be about our Father’s business in this crucial area of the kingdom of God. The Rev. Joseph Parker is the pastor of Bethlehem AME Church in Winona, Mississippi.
MEASURE TWICE. CUT ONCE. By Antjuan Seawright
The 24-hour news cycle can not only be exhausting, it can be used as a weapon of mass political distraction and destruction. Just look at the “HBCU Cuts” nonsense which has dominated so much of this past week’s public debate. A few days ago, several articles were published reporting that the Biden administration had cut HBCU funding. According to Politifact, claims stemmed from an original social media post whose headline read, “Biden Breaks Promise, Cuts $30B to Black Colleges & Universities.” Of course, that claim was absolutely and provably false. But that didn’t stop the original post from sparking copycat social media posts and eventually finding its way into some traditional media accounts. the world before the Unfortunately, when it comes to politics, it’s much easier to be upset than informed. So, both sadly and truth has time to put its pants on. However, we know predictably, those articles and the original claims were shared, reposted, discussed, and every single other thing better because, borrowing words from my political you do with an article. father Whip Clyburn, “We know Joe Biden and, more So we were bombarded by articles claiming that “Biden’s New Spending Plan Cuts HBCU Funding by $43 importantly, he knows us.” Billion” or “Funding for HBCUs Cut Significantly In Biden’s Spending Plan” or “Black Colleges Left Behind by He also knows and understands that, when it comes Biden Budget Reconciliation Bill,” creating clamour across the political ecosystem. to his commitment to the voting blocs that propelled Education). There was just one problem. It just wasn’t true. him to the nomination and then to the presidency, Under the FY22 budget request and the Build Back Neither President Biden nor the Biden administration there are no illusions. Sure, we could talk about all Better plan, President Biden has proposed $60 million ever suggested cutting HBCU funding. No one had. the remarkable things this administration has done for to support teacher preparation programs at HBCUs The truth is that President Biden understands that black voters in just eight months on the job. We could and minority-serving institutions (MSIs). HBCUs are the fertilizer we need for our American pontificate on his executive orders to promote racial The president’s Build Back Better plan directs $2 soil. That’s why he has increased HBCU funding equity and strengthen fair housing. We could map out billion toward building a pipeline of skilled health care dramatically. how raising the Child Tax Credit reduces the plague workers with graduate degrees from HBCUs, TCUs, The facts are clear: of poverty destroying black neighborhoods and cuts and MSIs. The American Rescue Plan provided over $4 billion child poverty in half, count all the times he’s fought In addition, the Build Back Better plan provides in relief funding to HBCUs, including providing to expand voting rights and detail how the remarkable tuition subsidies to students who attend HBCUs roughly $1.6 billion in debt relief to 45 HBCUs earlier diversity of his administration is breathing fresh air with a family income below $125,000 and includes this year. into many of our communities. However, all of those $5 billion in new funding for HEA Title III and Title The Department of Education awarded a total of $1 accomplishments would take weeks to unpack. Instead, V which can be used by HBCUs, tribal colleges and billion to build the capacity of institutions that serve we could remember the old southern carpenter’s rule: universities (TCUs), and MSIs to strengthen their large numbers of students of color and low-income “Measure twice. Cut once.” academic, administrative, and fiscal capabilities. students in FY21. $500 million of this funding went So, instead of rushing to share sensational headlines These programs alone represent more than $14.5 directly to HBCUs. that promote half truths and absolute falsehoods, billion in new HBCU funding. I’ll say that again: more President Biden’s FY 22 budget requests a total let’s get all the facts. Let’s take President Biden’s full than $14.5 billion in new funding. So where are the of $887 million for HBCU-specific funding in measure and, after we take a good look at all the good cuts? Higher Education Act (HEA) Title III funds (tripling he’s done, let’s work together to do even more. ❏ ❏ ❏ Look, we know that a lie can make it halfway around mandatory Title III funding at the Department of
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WILL CHURCH LOOK THE SAME? By Dr. Herman O. Kelly, Ph.D., Columnist
As we prepare to re-enter our church buildings post-COVID-19, the question which continues to capture our mental space and our theological thought is how will church look? Will we have any semblance of the past experiences we had before the global pandemic? Will we recognize the former church and her emphasis on worship, witness, and ministry? Someone said, “We will not go back to church; we will re-enter the church building.” I strongly agree. Going back presents a theological concern for me. Going back to church means we do some of the same things we did that did not help our ministry or help kingdom building. Going back means we return to the same types of meetings and the same issues that keep us from growing to be the kingdom place God intends for us to be—in community. God demonstrated this intention in Genesis 12:7 when “the Lord appeared to Abram, and said, ‘To your offspring, I will give this land.’ So, Abram built there an altar to the Lord, who had appeared to him.” God has called us to more than a building. God has called us to possess the land. God has called us to make a difference in our communities, not just in our buildings. As a pastor, I was always taught to walk the community. Everywhere I have served in our Zion, I make sure I walk the community. Why did I walk? I could have easily driven around the community, but I walked. I walked because I wanted to feel the space and pulse of the place that God had given me. I walked because I wanted the
community to know that I represent God and God’s kingdom work. I walked because I also belong to this community. I am not a fly-by-night person; I am a community theologian. First, when we re-enter, we will have to build a community again. The community we left over a year ago has changed—some persons living near Bethel AME Church in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, have moved due to the pandemic, some have lost jobs, some have lost loved ones. The community will look different. Our ministry must re-imagine itself to build community again. We must be an example of community for the community. The love we have for each other must extend beyond ourselves. The food giveaways, health fairs, community forums must continue upon our re-entry. We must possess the land. Second, our worship must be focused and intentional. Medical personnel believe the worship and gathering of people should be around one hour. Timing, among other aspects of pre-COVID-19 church life, will be a new paradigm for many of us. As a liturgist and pastor, I enjoy the challenges we face. This new way of doing church allows us to be creative and innovative. During this pandemic, we all have learned to adjust, and we must continue to adjust to new modes of worship and witness. Last, this is a wonderful opportunity to get tech-savvy young people involved. I informed my students at Louisiana State University that I was born during the rotary phone era, but now I live
in the cell phone era. I had to learn as I went. I have learned to operate Zoom, Google meetings, iPhone conferences, and other platforms. I have asked my younger members to assist me in this process. I am a master swimmer. In fact, I am a senior Olympian, but I am like a fish out of water regarding technology, but I continue to dive in deep water to learn. In Jacksonville, Florida, I learned to swim at a segregated swimming pool. In order to pass the swimming requirements, I needed to jump off the diving board in deep water. As we re-enter our buildings, we all must jump into deep water. We must learn to swim in these turbulent waters of postCOVID-19. We must learn the skills I learned at the segregated pool in Jacksonville. I learned how to float and kick and survive in deep water, and later I learned how to be a competitive swimmer. We must learn how to compete for kingdom building, and we must learn how not only to swim but also to “put out into deep water, and let down the nets” (Luke 5:4) to save ourselves and our communities. Dr. Herman O. Kelly, Jr. is the pastor of Bethel AME Church in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. He is an adjunct professor in the African and African American Studies Department in the graduate department of The College of Human Sciences and Education of Louisiana State University.
KEEP GOING By Rev. Barry Settle, Contributing Writer
“My brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of any kind, consider it nothing but joy, because you know that the testing of your faith produces endurance; and let endurance have its full effect, so that you may be mature and complete, lacking in nothing” (James 1:2-4). Frank Shorter is a former long-distance runner who won the gold medal for the United States in the 1972 Summer Olympics and the silver medal in the 1976 Summer Olympics in the marathon. Mr. Shorter, in an interview, said, “experience has taught me how important it is to just keep going, focusing on running, fast, and relaxed. Eventually, the pain passes, and the flow returns. It’s a part of racing.” I am not sure if you have ever participated in long-distance running or sports that include running, but during running, there is a part of the journey when you experience pain. The type of pain that will make you want to stop running, take a break, and sometimes even quit. It is during these painful periods of running that Shorter testifies to the importance of a “keep going” mentality. During pain, Shorter expresses that his experience has taught him just to keep going and focus on the running because eventually, the pain passes, and the flow returns. It’s part of racing. embrace the trial not for what it is but for what God will accomplish through the Pausing here, to bring it to us personally, are you in this space of pain? We pain associated with the trial. Not only should we expect that pain is associated have been in a season of painful trials. It has been challenging getting through with the faith journey, but because we expect the pain, we embrace it when it this period of history as a church and in our personal lives. Things have been occurs. extremely exasperating for us all, and I am reminded that all that we have gone Understand what is happening. As we continue with the “keep going” mentality, through is okay. It is a part of running this faith journey, but if we keep going and we must understand what God is doing; not the details, but the overall goal. God focus on running, the pain will cease, and our flow will return. We shift our focus is testing our faith. Faith means nothing unless it confronts trouble, and it is from the pain to the journey because the pain passes. You must keep going, and in this space that God strengthens our faith. Recognize that faith is similar to a whatever you do, do not stop running. God did not bring you this far, just to get muscle, that if we don’t use the muscle, the muscle weakens. So, God lovingly puts you this far. What God has in store is far beyond what you can imagine, and your seasons of trials in our life in order for us to exercise our “faith muscles,” thus pain now is just developing in you and preparing for you, all that God has for you. strengthening our faith. Understand that is what God is doing, strengthening our Today is not the end of the race, as you have at least one more day – today. So, faith. keep going. Let it finish its work. The final suggestion for the “keep going” mentality is to James writes this letter to Jewish Christians, who have been scattered by keep going as God finishes God’s work. Verse 4 tells us that to let endurance have persecution, to encourage them to endure the trials ahead with fortitude and to its full effect, let it finish. Experience should remind us that God finishes what keep going. The text highlighted teaches a few suggestions on how to be successful God starts. “I am confident of this, that the one who began a good work among in this “keep going” mentality. you will bring it to completion by the day of Jesus Christ” (Philippians 1:6). Keep Embrace it. In order to keep going, we must enthusiastically accept the trial and going! ❏ ❏ ❏ pain at hand. James says to “consider it nothing but joy.” We are encouraged to
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THE 19TH EPISCOPAL DISTRICT WOMEN’S MISSIONARY SOCIETY HOLDS “A WOMAN OF FIRSTS” CELEBRATION IN HONOUR OF CHARLOTTE MANNYA MAXEKE By Rev. Thato Mere, Contributing Writer
The 19th Episcopal District Women’s Missionary Society (WMS) hosted “A Woman of Firsts” in honour of Charlotte Mannya Maxeke. The session was held on Zoom on 14 August 2021. This comes as one of the 150th celebrations of the birth of Charlotte Maxeke, a response to a clarion call by the South African President Mr. Cyril Ramaphosa to celebrate the life and legacy of Charlotte Mannya Maxeke and her contribution towards the political and socio-economic landscape of the country. Charlotte Mannya Maxeke was the first black South African woman to receive a university degree (Wilberforce University). She was an activist and advocate for women’s rights in South Africa and one of the founding mothers of the AME Church in South Africa. An initiative led by the 19th Episcopal District Women’s Missionary Society of the African Methodist Episcopal Church, Sis. Reshoketswe Mosuwe and her Executive Board brought together missionary women of the 19th District, all wearing black and a fabulous headgear to resemble the strong and resilient woman, a mother and a leader Charlotte Maxeke was in her time. During the session, all that Maxeke was to the life of the church was resonated in the same spirit and accord by the supervisor of the 3rd Episcopal District, Patricia Russell McCloud, and the good leadership of both the WMS and Young People’s Division (YPD) during her and Bishop McCloud’s tenure in the 19th District. Supervisor Carolyn Brailsford of the 19th District encouraged women to uphold the Maxeke legacy of loving and serving God by knowing who they are. The main speaker of the day, judge president of the North West Province High Court Sis. Monica Leeuw, a staunch, and one of the longest serving members of the WMS, sentimentally shared the humanitarian principles that Charlotte Maxeke believed in. In the words of Judge Leeuw, “We have many sleeping giants in Africa, we should live in the spirits of our giants. To expand as the AME Church, we need to be empowered by the Holy Spirit in order to live up to the legacy of our legends.” Judge Leeuw concluded her presentation by encouraging women that to achieve any goal, they need to be inspired by the legacy of Charlotte Maxeke and be driven by principles and passion of love, sharing, and sacrifice towards their brothers and sisters. The humanness Charlotte Maxeke and those past showed towards their fellow brothers and sisters must live in us. The umbilical and political perspective was shared with excitement and a thankful heart by the representative of the Charlotte Maxeke Institute, Mr. Thulasizwe Makhanya, who commended the WMS for honouring the life and legacy of Charlotte Maxeke. Ms. Bathabile Dlamini, the president of African National Congress Women’s League, of which Charlotte Maxeke is a founding member, also shared Maxeke’s contribution towards the growth and development of the Women’s League. It remains the responsibility of the women of this time and age to uphold the legacy of Charlotte Maxeke and Presiding Elder, Rev. Alinah Masehela who was the first female to be appointed as a presiding elder in the 19th Episcopal District. “A Woman of Firsts” is an encouragement toward the current youth membership of the WMS in order to take the church forward by following in the footsteps of great giants such as Charlotte Maxeke. “A Woman of Firsts” is a fuel station for women such as the first female African to be elected to the Judicial Council of the AME Church during the historic hybrid gathering of the 2021 51st Session of the General Conference, Sis. Thabile Ngubeni. “A Woman of Firsts” is a baton relay to the young women of the WMS to continue preserving the legacy and the wealth that Charlotte Maxeke has built. ❏ ❏ ❏
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...From Many p20
Bishop McAllister also promised that theirs would be an inclusive ministry. “We are going to work really hard at building relationships,” he said. He said his priorities would include reaching financial solvency in the district within the local congregations, preparing for the post-pandemic church, and looking at the need to merge some congregations. He also shared that he has a good track record for promoting women in ministry. He has appointed women to lead major congregations in their districts and said his sensitivity to women in ministry is enhanced because two of his sisters are in the ministry. “I will bring women to the table and put them in places where they will have a strong voice,” he added. A bittersweet part of the conference was knowing that the Rev. Dr. Marcellus A. Norris, the newly elected connectional executive director of Church Growth and Development, would be stepping down from his role as the chair of the First District’s Christian Education department – a role he has served in for nine years. Dr. Norris, who is also the pastor of St. Luke AME Church, Harlem,
Christian Education with Bishop McAllister.
Christian Education Chair Norris and Music. New York, has served as chairperson alongside the Rev. Jay Broadnax, the pastor of Mt. Pisgah AME Church, Philadelphia, the Department’s executive director. Under their leadership, pre-COVID congresses have attracted several hundred young people each year who look forward to gathering on the campus of Delaware State University in Dover, Delaware. The young people look forward to spending the week living in the dormitories and forming friendships with other youth throughout the First District, which includes Bermuda, New England, New York, Western New York, Delaware, New Jersey, and Philadelphia. During the week, there are powerful worship services, engaging workshops, a “First District’s Best” youth talent competition, a youth-led “Saved With Amazing Grace” (SWAG) service, and a highly-anticipated Kingdom Games basketball competition involving both youth and clergy. Workshop presenters for this year’s two-day virtual Congress included Dr. Theodore Hickman-Maynard, the associate dean for Ministerial ...continued on p26
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OCTOBER 2021
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GOD IS NOT THROUGH WITH ME YET By Rev. Dr. Maxine L. Thomas, Columnist
“I am confident of this, that the one who began a good work among you will bring it to completion by the day of Jesus Christ” (Philippians 1:6). Beloved, God is not through with you yet. He is still molding you and shaping you into that which he would have you to be. So do not think that you have already arrived. Yes, you’re saved. Yes, you’re sanctified. You don’t walk that way no more, don’t talk that way no more. Songwriter Rufus H. McDaniel said it this way, “What a wonderful change has come over my life since Jesus came into my heart.” However, that’s just the beginning. Perhaps you are thinking, “Well, I didn’t just get saved. I’ve been saved for a long time.” It doesn’t matter how long you’ve been saved. Whether for two days, two months, or 20 years, God is not through with you yet! My friend, the Lord has begun a good work in you. God wants to take you higher. He wants to take you deeper. He wants to bring you to a new level of awareness of his healing and holy presence. So, in the majesty of this moment, why don’t you just allow God to refill your cup and refresh you? Woman of God, there are some dry places in it happen. He’s going to bring it to pass. Beloved, your life that need refreshing, there are some as you continue to read God’s word and meditate broken places that still need to be healed, and upon his truths, your old thought patterns will there are some gifts that still lie dormant. There change. Instead of dwelling on negative thoughts, are some things you thought were gone, but they you’ll find yourself having good thoughts. Thoughts still remain. Scripture reminds us that God’s going that are of a good report. Thoughts that are lovely to perform those things that he has already begun and pure. Holy thoughts. in you (Philippians 1:6). Even as a seed blossoms The Bible says, “Let the same mind be in you that into a flower, God is going to bring your ministry to was in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 2:5). God wants us full bloom. It’s time to move from complacency to to have the mind of Christ. God wants to perfect the commitment. It’s time to move from mediocrity to love that he has already placed in you. God’s love is striving to be all that you can be. The Lord wants to perfect love. It is not always easy for us to love. Like take you from one level of glory to another. most of us, you have probably encountered some Yes, there shall be a performance of all that God people who are less than lovable, e.g., the sister who has promised concerning your life. To perform turned her back on you in your hour of need, the means to cause something to happen, to bring to father who abused you, the uncle who touched you fruition, and to make a reality. God is going to make in places where he should not have, your mama’s
“boo” who gave you a quarter to sit on his lap every time he came over, the child who failed to put into practice that which you tried to instill in him from early childhood, the nosy neighbor, or the church mother who speaks in one language on Sunday morning and in another language as soon as the benediction has been said. You know—it is not always easy to love! Yet, thank God, it’s not my love that I am able to offer others. If it were my love, it would be a sometimey, temperamental, and wishy-washy love. Sisterfriend, as you continue to avail yourself to the transforming love of God, he will teach you how to love the unloveable. He’ll give you new eyes for seeing others through the eyes of Jesus and not through the eyes of guilt and mistrust, anger and fear. When you see others through the eyes of Jesus, you will be able to bless those who despitefully use you, turn the other cheek, love your enemies, and treat everybody all right. Hallelujah! God wants to work a perfect work in you. Exhale and declare: It is my steadfast desire to walk in the perfect will of God. As I do so, I exhale complacency and defeat. I receive renewed faith to believe that God is able to bring to pass all that he said concerning my life. ❏ ❏ ❏
AME CHURCH MEMBERS SUPPORT PRINCE GEORGE’S COUNTY MIDDLE SCHOOL STUDENTS BY SPONSORING AN ORATORICAL CONTEST By William “Bill” Ayers, 2nd Episcopal District
On Wednesday, August 25, 2021, parents of the winners, friends, relatives, and members of the Charter Committee to Celebrate President Barack Obama met at the Prince George’s County Administration Building to honor, commend, and congratulate winners of the Committee’s 2021 Obama Legacy Speeches Oratorical Contest. The event showcased Prince George’s County, Maryland, middle school students. This year, we had 12 oratorical contest contestants from the Prince George County Public School System. The winners were: Third place, Jasmine Tucker, who spoke on remarks by President Obama at the 50th Anniversary of the Selma to Montgomery March; Second place, Lauren London, who spoke on the remarks by President Obama on Father’s Day, June 21, 2010; and the First place winner was Shabad Singh who spoke on President Obama’s remarks at the United States Women’s Summit. Also included were two students who took advantage of the opportunity to form a tag-team approach to this year’s contest. From the Ensemble Speech category, the winners were Arianna Mejia and Emma McDermott, who spoke on President Obama’s remarks to the Sandy Hook Interfaith Prayer Vigil, December 26, 2012. The founder and chairperson of the Charter Committee, Ms. Janis Hagey, recognized the three judges and each contestants’ coach and mentor. The Charter Committee also recognized Ms. Hagey this year for her leadership and commitment to this worthwhile and very meaningful project. Her goal for the Committee this year was to organize a program to help our young people grow and learn and to help those who needed help by providing them with necessary toiletries. These events have grown over the last four Obama birthday celebrations. The Charter Committee was organized in 2017, with its first birthday celebration of President Obama in 2018. The celebrations have a cultural and educational aspect that mark the ideals and the sincere commitment of the 44th president of the United States of America, but we also added a public service project to involve others. Individuals and organizations make decorated shoeboxes/ plastic bags full of toiletries that are then donated to local charities to help others in need. This year, 550 shoeboxes/plastic bags were donated to four local charities in the Washington, Maryland, and Virginia (DMV) area. The concept for “Charter Committee to Celebrate President Barack Obama” was the brainchild of Ms. Janis Hagey, a member of Greater Mount Nebo African Methodist Episcopal Church in Mitchellville, Maryland. She recruited a number of like-minded members from her church and drafted others who showed an interest in the project and had connections to sponsors who could make it a successful celebration each year. Ms. Hagey is a member of the 2nd Episcopal District, and her pastor is the Rev. Dr. Jonathan Weaver. ❏ ❏ ❏
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OCTOBER 2021
The Christian Recorder
THE DOORS OF THE CHURCH ARE OPEN By Lic. Tricia Thomas, Contributing Writer
Just for a moment, I’d like for you to ask yourself: Are the doors of the church still open? Being born and raised in the AME Church, I cannot begin to count how many times I have heard those words. Often prefaced by a rhema word from the Lord, just moments before, we would run to the altar expecting a move from God. As the choir and musicians worship softly in the background, there was always an unspeakable comfort that I received hearing that “the doors of the church are open.” For me, that means that the church is open and available to any and all who knowingly and unknowingly need it. To know that the doors of the church were opened thousands of years ago, just for me, gives me the blessed assurance that every situation, every heartache—everything— works together for the good of the Lord. Yet, while the doors of the church may be open, it is not in the way that you think. The global pandemic has affected many of us in unimaginable ways. Throughout the past couple of years, we have experienced both good days and bad days, but one thing that has brought me through is knowing that the doors of the church are open. Now, to be clear, I’m not talking about the physical doors of the church. I am not talking about brick and mortar, stones, slate, or straw. This is not a reference to the edifice in which Richard Allen boldly stood and declared the word of God. I am talking about you and me. We are the church. With Christ, whom we affectionately call the head of our lives, the church is then considered the “body” of Christ. The church has never been confined to four walls, a roof, and an anvil. Consider the teachings of Jesus. How many of them were in a physical building? His most well-known sermons were on a mountain top. In that same way, the Bible states that wherever two or more are gathered, Christ is in the midst (Matthew 18:20). Likewise, in Matthew 16, just as Jesus declares that he has built the church upon the rock (v. 18), Jesus has built his church within us. As a body of believers, we must then, too, believe that we, the body of Christ, are the church. First Corinthians 12 reminds us that each of us, as members of the church, as members of the body of Christ, have an obligation to fulfill our purpose. Specifically, verse 17 states, “If the whole body were an eye, where would the sense of hearing be? If the whole body were an ear, where would the sense of smell be?” Gospel artist Hezekiah Walker wrote, “I need you, you need me, we’re all a part of God’s body.” That is to say, that each of us must do our part. If you were called to be a missionary, make it your mission to ensure that your community is well taken care of. If you were called to be an evangelist, then you are expected to meet the people where they are and spread the Gospel of Christ. If you are called to be a preacher, then one of your main goals should be saving souls and adding to the body of Christ. My sisters and brothers, we, as Christians, believe that Jesus died on Calvary for the remission of sins. I assert that when he spread his arms on Calvary that day, symbolically and metaphorically speaking, the doors of the church, quite literally, the arms of the body of Christ, were opened. If Christ has opened his arms for us, how dare we close our arms to those in need? The past year and a half has thrown each and every one of us into unforeseen circumstances. Video and teleconferencing, parking lot worship services, and live streaming has forced all of us to think, praise, worship, and minister outside of the box. Yet, to reimagine a popular colloquial saying, you can take the people out of the church, but you can’t take the church out of the people. It is time for us to live and lead the life that Christ intended for us. We must be about our Father’s business. We must continue to be kingdom builders. We must be contributing members to the body of Christ. We must not allow this pandemic and the years to come, as we navigate this new normalcy, to diminish our power to effectively and efficiently build upon, and add to, the body of Christ. The doors of the church have always been open. Are you? ❏ ❏ ❏ ...From Connectional p16 introduced to the assembly. The AMWIM Executive Board will officially be installed during a transitional meeting held on October 1, 2021. Once the Executive Board has been installed and takes office, the Quadrennial theme will be published. AMEWIM encourages all clergy to join us on the fourth Monday of each month for our Maximizing Ministry Mentoring Sessions. In addition, if you are interested in learning more about the purpose of AMEWIM and/or are interested in supporting AMEWIM through our programs, paying of connectional dues, purchasing apparel, or downloading of archives, please proceed to our newly launched website: www. amewim.org. ❏ ❏ ❏
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THANKFUL AND GRATEFUL By Byron L. Washington, Columnist
The first time I heard the statement “Happy New Month” here in Nigeria, I was confused. It was October 2019, nothing new, just another month. Then I heard it the following month, and I realized that people said that every month. Now, I cannot say that this is for all of Nigeria, but I hear it at the beginning of every new month in the area that I live. As we enter the later part of 2021 with so much happening globally, we should consider a few things. First, saying “Happy New Month” shows respect for the fact that life can be unexpected and fleeting like a “vapor.” It shows that nothing is promised. A new year is great, but being thankful for the months shows gratitude. The idea of giving thanks could not be truer, especially during the pandemic when a large number of people did not see a new year or new month in some cases. The second is that “new” is always available to us. The Old Testament writer reminds us that God’s compassion does not fail; it is new every morning (Lamentations 3:22-23). The beginning of any month is a great time to set new goals, launch a business, or commit to growing spiritually. We don’t have to wait until January to start something new. Third, it shows that it is ok to celebrate along the way. At the end of every month, many churches here in Nigeria have thanksgiving services, praising and thanking God for bringing them through the month, anticipating his continued protection, direction, and grace as they head into the next month. Friends, it is a great idea to celebrate along the way. My brothers and sisters, we can all sit around and wait until January to celebrate. We can all wait until New Year’s Eve to give thanks and praise God for another year, or we can thank God as we journey through our year. I encourage you to be thankful not just for the years but also for the months, which are just as important. The world we live in can be an unpredictable place; why wait for a new year when at the beginning or end of a month, we can take a moment and tell God thank you for what he has done. I have adopted the concept of being thankful for the months. I am thankful that I am in good health, grateful that my family is safe, and thankful for all the little things that God did in the month that I took for granted. More grace to each of you, and I pray that when you enter into your next new month, you would say, “God, I thank you for a new month.” God bless and always be encouraged! ❏ ❏ ❏ ...From Many p24
Studies at Harvard Divinity School, Cambridge, Massachusetts, and Dr. Kahli Mootoo, the pastor of Emanuel AME Church in Harlem, New York. Preachers for the worship services were the newly elected bishop for the 15th Episcopal District, the Rt. Rev. Silvester S. Beaman, the Rev. Bria Belim, the pastor of Delaine-Waring AME Church, Buffalo, New York, and the Rev. Dr. Marcellus A. Norris, chairman. A fun activity this year was an Old School vs. New School “Versuz” event. The Rev. Kyle Thomas of Thornbury AME Church in Pennsylvania played old school music from legendary artists like the Rev. Milton Brunson and the Rev. James Cleveland; and the Rev. Virgil Woods, pastor of First AME Church in Gary, Indiana, played music by newer artists, like Kierra Sheard and Maverick City Music. This year’s Congress also included presentations from the Youth of the Year contest winners. The contest is an annual competition where youth showcase their talents in essay writing, music, and dance. This year’s winners listed by their annual conference were: Deanna Sinclair, Delaware; Tyler Corbett, New England; Mikayla Williams, New York; Christopher Outlaw, New Jersey; and Myles Gaston, Western New York. “We were truly excited to be able to offer a powerful virtual experience with just the right balance of inspiration, information, fellowship, and fun!” said the Rev. Broadnax. “Participants were so blessed to receive their ‘Reimagine Kit’s’ in the mail prior to the start of the Congress, complete with t-shirt and other gifts so that everyone felt engaged in the event despite it being virtual,” the Rev. Broadnax said, adding, “It was also our honor to be the hosts for the very first districtwide meeting with our bishop, the Rt. Rev. Julius McAllister, Sr., and Episcopal supervisor, Mother Joan McAllister. We are grateful that God blessed us to start this new season with a bang!” ❏ ❏ ❏
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OCTOBER 2021
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EDITORIAL
WE, THE PEOPLE OF THE AME CHURCH By John Thomas III, Editor
Over the last nineteen months, I have attended multiple annual conference and planning meetings across the Connectional Church in addition to the 2021 General Conference. Seeing and hearing the reports of ministry at the different levels of the denomination is enlightening. Even during the pandemic, mortgages have been retired, buildings have been constructed, ministries have been expanded, and souls have been saved. Yet, as I’ve listened to the statistics and watched videos, I ask the question, “Where are the people?” Behind the glowing statistics and slick video presentations are the faithful people of God who have chosen to serve in the African Methodist Episcopal Church. It is the tithes and offerings of the congregation that retire mortgages and fund new construction. It is the paid and volunteer labor of members that undergird and expand the local church’s ministries. Yet, the voice and views of the people are sometimes absent when we speak about the church. One of the side-effects of virtual annual conferences is that the local church’s elected delegate is seldom seen and heard. The elected representative of the local church is rendered invisible. Every grand design of a church leader from the largest Episcopal district to the smallest congregation rests upon the loyalty and participation of the local church. For example, as we navigate the current challenges facing the Department of Retirement Services, I have heard clergy bluntly comment, “That’s a preacher issue.” Yet, laypersons (such as myself and other church employees) are active participants. Furthermore, the contributions to the plan as well as any restitution that may need to be paid will ultimately come from the people in our pews. It is John Thomas III egregious to ignore our presence and our voices and reduce us to ATMs. In our Episcopal form of government, we believe in the leadership 21st Editor of The Christian Recorder of bishops. In our Methodist polity, however, the laypeople of a church have a say in the governance of the denomination at all levels. The people in our pews made the AME Church what it is today—and we cannot assume that the people will always be there. As the character of Christianity changes in the United States, the AME Church leadership must confront the fact that the people in our pews are there by choice—and can leave by choice. In its 2021 survey, “Faith Among Black Americans,” Pew Research found that the most important factor in church affiliation is the quality of the sermon across all age groups. The research also notes that denominational affiliation was more important to older members than younger age members. We see these empirical findings replicated in fact across our local churches where older “die-hards” have stayed while younger members who might have grown up in the Young Peoples Division (YPD) migrate to other churches upon adulthood as their spiritual needs change. A bishop cannot send whomever to a church and expect that the people will stay simply because of loyalty to the brand. More than one “major house” has been emptied because of an ill-suited pastoral appointment. Once the damage is done, it is difficult to repair. The people from districts 14-20 have special grievances that need to be heard. One sees younger generations questioning the relevancy of the AME Church in their local context. The impact of the 2021 General Conference on areas outside the United States continues to be felt. The feeling of being willfully disenfranchised and muted has left a bitter taste in the mouths of many—even with the election of an African woman to the church’s Judicial Council. Older generations viewed an attachment to the “mother” AME Church in the United States as a symbol of pride and a beacon of hope. The younger clergy and lay leaders taking their places are more willing to voice their discontent with neocolonialism, poor Episcopal oversight, and the lack of relevant training resources. We ignore these voices at our peril if we want the Connectional Church to survive. The AME Church is composed of faithful disciples who have chosen to worship God in this space. As a denomination, we have accomplished much to spread the gospel of Jesus Christ and preach liberation for all of God’s people throughout the world. While it is right to honor those who have been elected and assigned to positions of leadership within our denomination, the voices of the people are paramount. We, the people of the AME Church, demand that we be respected and be heard! ❏ ❏ ❏
THE TRUTH IS THE LIGHT By Rev. Dr. Charles R. Watkins, Jr., Senior Columnist
Proverbs 29:18a says, “Where there is no vision, the people perish.” I am compelled to remind our leadership that there is surely a price to pay. The question for us all is simply, are we willing to pay it? We can agree that we are indeed on the verge of a breakthrough! God is doing a wonderful work in our church. We have made so many gains. We have overcome so many obstacles. However, there is still much to do and quite a way to go. We have all heard the biblical adage, “Without vision, people perish.” I am truly thankful for our membership, who are firmly committed to availing themselves to God as we move forward as a ministry and mission, realizing God’s vision for our church. However, on the rare occasion that I have the opportunity to sit comfortably and safely in my study, I find myself pondering the question, “Does our leadership understand the cost, and are we truly willing to pay?” I am convinced that many people do not realize the responsibility that comes with leadership. If one would honestly measure the responsibility, then I submit that some would not volunteer so readily. An earnest assessment of the duties and responsibilities that come with leadership will reveal the inescapable reality that there will be heartbreak and heartache. There will be incredible highs as well as painful lows. I wonder sometimes if people understand that there will be sleepless nights. Unfortunately, many times leadership within the church is viewed in a romantic sense. We have become people-worshippers, sometimes failing to keep in mind that this is God’s kingdom. We need to be reminded often. Scriptures tell us that the God we serve is a jealous God, and he will not share his glory with anyone. There are certain prices to pay, and if we commit ourselves to do the work that God has ordained us to do, we must expect them and be willing to pay them. Leaders, we must understand that there are times when we will become the object of negative comments and negative feelings. We can expect to be lightning rods for people’s pain. However, we must lead by godly example! Our walk must clearly exhibit the difference between godly and selfish ambition. Selfish ambition focuses on our position and our role, whereas godly ambition focuses on a need. As leaders in our beloved church, we cannot live to please people and allow ourselves to become slaves of people. We will find then that instead of one master (Jesus, whose yoke is easy), we end up with numerous pharaohs who never seem to be satisfied with our
p performance, no matter what we do. God has called us to a mighty work. H He did not promise us the work would be easy. God did, however, promise tthat we would never be alone. Beloved, there is truly a war going on in and around our community. We aare being confronted with challenges on every side. Many times, in the heart oof our community, we find very little stability. There are very few families tthat have not, in one way or another, been affected by disappointment and llack of self-respect. However, the one thing that has not changed is that the cchurch is truly the heart of the community. It is safe to conclude that, in ffact, in many ways, the church is the community. The church, at her most eeffective capacity, is certainly a microcosm of the community. The church, the body of Christ, equipped with the good news of Jesus h Christ, continues to be a beacon of light that shines on all those who are broken, weary, and downtrodden. Our leaders, who by faith have embraced Jesus as Lord and Savior, still boldly stand to serve as the center of the community’s spiritual growth. Our prayer must be that, with God as our ever-present helper, time will prove that the church will be the center of the community’s economic growth as well. We are faced with an awesome responsibility. We are called to stand as a courageous witness for Christ in a time when Satan would have our people believe that God has forsaken us. Yet, we still serve an on-time God. We pray, and sometimes it does not appear that he is coming to help. We fast, and it sometimes appears that he does not see our plight, but we know, by faith, that God is somewhere watching. By faith, we know that somewhere over in the fourth hour of our watch, Jesus will come walking across the waters of our critical situation. Jesus will provide the help and the answers that we so desperately need. In the meantime, the church must continue to be the church. We must faithfully be about our Father’s business. God has called us to be leaders in this portion of the vineyard and challenges us to serve this refuge boldly for the spiritually sick. God commands us to stand as examples of faith in this place where those without hope may come to know Jesus. There is no greater entity or a more powerful institution in existence for our people than the community of believers that is the church. There is no greater responsibility than to pick up the mantle of leadership, understanding that “where there is no vision, the people perish.” The Rev. Dr. Charles R. Watkins, Jr., is the pastor of James Chapel AME Church in Charleston, South Carolina.
