AME Quad basic:Quad Report readers 6/13/12 12:29 AM Page 1
2008-2012
Thirteenth Episcopal District ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Quadrennial Report
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ 49th Session of the General Conference
African Methodist Episcopal Church
Bishop Vashti Murphy McKenzie Presiding Episcopal Servant
Supervisor Stan McKenzie Supervisor of Missions
AME Quad basic:Quad Report readers 6/13/12 12:30 AM Page 2
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Greeting Statement W
e live in an ever changing world and still Jesus is the same yesterday, today and forever more; God’s promises are still realized; God’s word has the power to reproduce itself in the life of the believer; and God’s church has prevailed against the gates of hell.
Bishop Vashti Murphy McKenzie and Supervisor Stan McKenzie
B
e Ye Transformed is a bold initiative of the 13th Episcopal District growing out of the Believe vision to revitalize both pulpit and pew. In order to achieve this bold vision it was necessary to unify our hearts and minds to the task by creating an atmosphere for unity and teamwork to take place.
“Team 13” was born at the genesis of the quadrennial. It is our call, cause and rally cry to share the burdens and blessings of ministry from pulpit to pew, conference auxiliaries to local congregation and presiding elder to bishop.
The moment to bridge the chasms that divide us has come. The time to build is upon us.
Nelson Mandela
Team 13 is a group of extraordinary volunteers, servants of God, who have contributed to the overall success of the Believe/Be Ye Transformed vision. They have worked tirelessly across two states to produce extraordinary ministry results as well as in the planning, execution and hosting of the 49th Quadrennial Session of the General Conference. Team 13 has been able to be creative in developing ministry plans, identify, diagnose and solve problems to assure a high level of productivity. This ministry of hospitality is undergirded by prayer and the practice of our Spiritual Disciplines.
The progenitors of African Methodism carried the gospel of justice and liberation on their backs throughout Tennessee and Kentucky. They scraped pennies together from whatever wages they could earn to build the churches we pray in, preach, practice our faith in, prosper in, and find power to live in today. Our ancestors prayed up a dynamic church and connectional global ministry without the technological advancements of post modernity. Yet, they preached people up from despair into discipleship without a paved highway or an automobile, but on rough dirt roads by horse, cart or foot. They may not have had everything they needed to build a historic connectional institution, but they had a great faith. That faith led them to build and believe; believe in Christ and His church -- called African Methodism -and build the firm foundation we’re standing upon today. We, who are part of the present age, must build upon their legacy and take advantage of opportunities never dreamed … or they never thought possible. All throughout the previous 2004-2008 Quadrennial, both leadership and followship of the 13th Episcopal District wanted to look reality in the eye and at the same time forge a partnership with God to rebuild lives, rebuild churches, and rebuild communities. The Believe Vision was born. It is a bold move to revive people and pulpits thereby revitalizing the 13th Episcopal District. The foundational scripture is, “…without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to Him must believe that He exists and that He rewards those who earnestly seek Him.” Hebrews 11: 6 The confidence of our global community as well as any Episcopal District has been bombarded by local, national and international circumstances. Persistent
2
2008-2012 Thirteenth Episcopal District Quadrennial Report
Thus, we sought to: problems and systemic issues weighed heavily upon the shoulders of preachers and people. During the 2008- 2012 quadrennial there was a renewed emphasis on expanding the Believe vision. We believed and we acted on what we believed. We desired to be church and to do church in ways that reflected what we believe. In order for that to happen, we had to be transformed. The Kingdom agenda was: Each church exists as an open door with an open invitation to Believe. The church engages in ministry to transform those who believe. The church matures them through spiritual transformation, which includes, but is not limited to the ministry of worship, word, work and witness. The transformed disciples are sent to be transformers of life, home, community, country and the world.
Be Ye Transformed “…Do not be conformed to this present world but be transformed by the renewing of your mind so that you may test and approve what is the will of God, what is good and well pleasing and perfect.” ~ Romans 12:12 (NET)
1. Believe again that God can and wants to supply our every need. 2. Believe again that the AME Church can spread like wildfire into new locations and at the same time nurture and resource existing congregations. 3. Believe that we can reach a new generation of believers without losing older generations. 4. Believe again that we can equip and train a new generation of leaders to serve the present age. 5. Believe that we can have a vibrant worship and witness that impacts community and empowers us to engage in the ministry of reconciliation. 6. Believe again that God, who has begun a good work in our personal and congregational lives, will carry it until Jesus comes back again. 7. Believe that we can re-teach our traditions and develop new ones. 8. Believe again that God is able and can enable us to do great and marvelous things.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
At a pivotal point in time in our nation, with the audacity of hope and the winds of change blowing across our social and political landscape, we have an opportunity to not only believe but to put feet to our faith to be transformed and become transforming agents of Christ. The quadrennial goal was to develop a ministry that would transform lives, homes, community, the nations, worship, ministry, disciples, instruction, giving, evangelism, church growth, leadership, and administration.
By the grace of God,
Vashti Murphy McKenzie Presiding Prelate 13th Episcopal District AME Church 3
AME Quad basic:Quad Report readers 6/13/12 12:30 AM Page 2
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Greeting Statement W
e live in an ever changing world and still Jesus is the same yesterday, today and forever more; God’s promises are still realized; God’s word has the power to reproduce itself in the life of the believer; and God’s church has prevailed against the gates of hell.
Bishop Vashti Murphy McKenzie and Supervisor Stan McKenzie
B
e Ye Transformed is a bold initiative of the 13th Episcopal District growing out of the Believe vision to revitalize both pulpit and pew. In order to achieve this bold vision it was necessary to unify our hearts and minds to the task by creating an atmosphere for unity and teamwork to take place.
“Team 13” was born at the genesis of the quadrennial. It is our call, cause and rally cry to share the burdens and blessings of ministry from pulpit to pew, conference auxiliaries to local congregation and presiding elder to bishop.
The moment to bridge the chasms that divide us has come. The time to build is upon us.
Nelson Mandela
Team 13 is a group of extraordinary volunteers, servants of God, who have contributed to the overall success of the Believe/Be Ye Transformed vision. They have worked tirelessly across two states to produce extraordinary ministry results as well as in the planning, execution and hosting of the 49th Quadrennial Session of the General Conference. Team 13 has been able to be creative in developing ministry plans, identify, diagnose and solve problems to assure a high level of productivity. This ministry of hospitality is undergirded by prayer and the practice of our Spiritual Disciplines.
The progenitors of African Methodism carried the gospel of justice and liberation on their backs throughout Tennessee and Kentucky. They scraped pennies together from whatever wages they could earn to build the churches we pray in, preach, practice our faith in, prosper in, and find power to live in today. Our ancestors prayed up a dynamic church and connectional global ministry without the technological advancements of post modernity. Yet, they preached people up from despair into discipleship without a paved highway or an automobile, but on rough dirt roads by horse, cart or foot. They may not have had everything they needed to build a historic connectional institution, but they had a great faith. That faith led them to build and believe; believe in Christ and His church -- called African Methodism -and build the firm foundation we’re standing upon today. We, who are part of the present age, must build upon their legacy and take advantage of opportunities never dreamed … or they never thought possible. All throughout the previous 2004-2008 Quadrennial, both leadership and followship of the 13th Episcopal District wanted to look reality in the eye and at the same time forge a partnership with God to rebuild lives, rebuild churches, and rebuild communities. The Believe Vision was born. It is a bold move to revive people and pulpits thereby revitalizing the 13th Episcopal District. The foundational scripture is, “…without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to Him must believe that He exists and that He rewards those who earnestly seek Him.” Hebrews 11: 6 The confidence of our global community as well as any Episcopal District has been bombarded by local, national and international circumstances. Persistent
2
2008-2012 Thirteenth Episcopal District Quadrennial Report
Thus, we sought to: problems and systemic issues weighed heavily upon the shoulders of preachers and people. During the 2008- 2012 quadrennial there was a renewed emphasis on expanding the Believe vision. We believed and we acted on what we believed. We desired to be church and to do church in ways that reflected what we believe. In order for that to happen, we had to be transformed. The Kingdom agenda was: Each church exists as an open door with an open invitation to Believe. The church engages in ministry to transform those who believe. The church matures them through spiritual transformation, which includes, but is not limited to the ministry of worship, word, work and witness. The transformed disciples are sent to be transformers of life, home, community, country and the world.
Be Ye Transformed “…Do not be conformed to this present world but be transformed by the renewing of your mind so that you may test and approve what is the will of God, what is good and well pleasing and perfect.” ~ Romans 12:12 (NET)
1. Believe again that God can and wants to supply our every need. 2. Believe again that the AME Church can spread like wildfire into new locations and at the same time nurture and resource existing congregations. 3. Believe that we can reach a new generation of believers without losing older generations. 4. Believe again that we can equip and train a new generation of leaders to serve the present age. 5. Believe that we can have a vibrant worship and witness that impacts community and empowers us to engage in the ministry of reconciliation. 6. Believe again that God, who has begun a good work in our personal and congregational lives, will carry it until Jesus comes back again. 7. Believe that we can re-teach our traditions and develop new ones. 8. Believe again that God is able and can enable us to do great and marvelous things.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
At a pivotal point in time in our nation, with the audacity of hope and the winds of change blowing across our social and political landscape, we have an opportunity to not only believe but to put feet to our faith to be transformed and become transforming agents of Christ. The quadrennial goal was to develop a ministry that would transform lives, homes, community, the nations, worship, ministry, disciples, instruction, giving, evangelism, church growth, leadership, and administration.
By the grace of God,
Vashti Murphy McKenzie Presiding Prelate 13th Episcopal District AME Church 3
AME Quad basic:Quad Report readers 6/13/12 12:32 AM Page 4
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Advancing the Kingdom
The pace of our work:
l Transforming ministry l Transforming worship l Transforming the nations l Transforming churches l Transforming leadership l Transforming Christian education l Transforming lives l Transforming communities l Transforming disciples l Transforming instruction l Transforming ecumenical relations l Transforming evangelism l Transforming homes l Transforming administration
l 2008 – Casting the Vision l 2009 – Catching the Vision l 2010 – Confirming the Vision l 2011 – Coaching the Vision l 2012 – Completing the Vision
Believe Golf
Tournament
Believe, Inc., the 13th District’s 501c3, helps local churches and provides theological scholarships
B
“
Over $200,000 has been given through grants since its inception in 2005. Some of the grants have renovated the physical structure of local churches, and started new ministries. Grants were awarded to purchase computers, hymnals, Bibles, start after school ministries, repair roofs, pews and kitchens. Grants were also given for theological training including 11 students at Payne Theological Seminary and 2 at ITC. The Believe Concert The Annual Believe Concert is held at the 13th District’s Planning Meeting
4
2008-2012 Thirteenth Episcopal District Quadrennial Report
Grants for Scholarship, Ministry and Church Improvements
Mr. Joseph Turner, Vice Chair, Believe, Inc.
Transforming Ministry elieve, Inc. is a 501c3 non-profit designed to provide resources outside of tithes and offering for local congregations to maintain, initiate or expand existing ministry. Believe, Inc. is a part of the Believe Vision that assists churches to repair and rebuild sanctuaries and resource ministries. Believe also help students obtain theological preparation.
Local Churches and Theological Students Awarded
each year. It has featured award-winning, gospel recording artists such as Byron Cage, Earnest Pugh, Richard Smallwood and Vickie Winans.
The Believe Grant at Jones Chapel was used to build a unisex restroom on the sanctuary level of the Church. Prior to the construction of the restroom, members/guests had to travel down a steep, narrow stairwell to the church basement or they had to walk outside and down the ramp and travel around the building to the door on the lower level to access the restrooms. Rev. Tyronda Burgess
Raises Funds for Believe, Inc, the 501c3 of the 13th District
Benevolence Fund In the 2004-2008 Quadrennial, a benevolence fund was established to assist churches and clergy with emergency 1 time support totaling $140,000. In this Quadrennial, 20082012, $193,494 was given in total aid with $113,414 distributed to clergy and churches.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ 13th District gets Key Person Group Life Insurance for clergy and lay through New York Life Insurance Company.
”
The Believe Golf Tournament Believe, Inc. initiated The Believe Golf Tournament in 2009. It has been held in Nashville, Tennessee at various award winning golf courses. Golf teams from across the connection competed for prizes including a chance to win airline tickets and a new BMW automobile. The funds generated from the tournaments have provided resources to make annual grant opportunities. Ultimately, the golf tournament created an atmosphere of fellowship while raising money for a wonderful cause. 5
AME Quad basic:Quad Report readers 6/13/12 12:32 AM Page 4
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Advancing the Kingdom
The pace of our work:
l Transforming ministry l Transforming worship l Transforming the nations l Transforming churches l Transforming leadership l Transforming Christian education l Transforming lives l Transforming communities l Transforming disciples l Transforming instruction l Transforming ecumenical relations l Transforming evangelism l Transforming homes l Transforming administration
l 2008 – Casting the Vision l 2009 – Catching the Vision l 2010 – Confirming the Vision l 2011 – Coaching the Vision l 2012 – Completing the Vision
Believe Golf
Tournament
Believe, Inc., the 13th District’s 501c3, helps local churches and provides theological scholarships
B
“
Over $200,000 has been given through grants since its inception in 2005. Some of the grants have renovated the physical structure of local churches, and started new ministries. Grants were awarded to purchase computers, hymnals, Bibles, start after school ministries, repair roofs, pews and kitchens. Grants were also given for theological training including 11 students at Payne Theological Seminary and 2 at ITC. The Believe Concert The Annual Believe Concert is held at the 13th District’s Planning Meeting
4
2008-2012 Thirteenth Episcopal District Quadrennial Report
Grants for Scholarship, Ministry and Church Improvements
Mr. Joseph Turner, Vice Chair, Believe, Inc.
Transforming Ministry elieve, Inc. is a 501c3 non-profit designed to provide resources outside of tithes and offering for local congregations to maintain, initiate or expand existing ministry. Believe, Inc. is a part of the Believe Vision that assists churches to repair and rebuild sanctuaries and resource ministries. Believe also help students obtain theological preparation.
Local Churches and Theological Students Awarded
each year. It has featured award-winning, gospel recording artists such as Byron Cage, Earnest Pugh, Richard Smallwood and Vickie Winans.
The Believe Grant at Jones Chapel was used to build a unisex restroom on the sanctuary level of the Church. Prior to the construction of the restroom, members/guests had to travel down a steep, narrow stairwell to the church basement or they had to walk outside and down the ramp and travel around the building to the door on the lower level to access the restrooms. Rev. Tyronda Burgess
Raises Funds for Believe, Inc, the 501c3 of the 13th District
Benevolence Fund In the 2004-2008 Quadrennial, a benevolence fund was established to assist churches and clergy with emergency 1 time support totaling $140,000. In this Quadrennial, 20082012, $193,494 was given in total aid with $113,414 distributed to clergy and churches.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ 13th District gets Key Person Group Life Insurance for clergy and lay through New York Life Insurance Company.
”
The Believe Golf Tournament Believe, Inc. initiated The Believe Golf Tournament in 2009. It has been held in Nashville, Tennessee at various award winning golf courses. Golf teams from across the connection competed for prizes including a chance to win airline tickets and a new BMW automobile. The funds generated from the tournaments have provided resources to make annual grant opportunities. Ultimately, the golf tournament created an atmosphere of fellowship while raising money for a wonderful cause. 5
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Transforming Worship
Annual
Believe Concert
The Trinity Revival Transforms Worship at Christian Education and Leadership Convocation At the 2011 Christian Education Leadership Convocation, Bishop McKenzie organized a Trinity Revival, which included a lecture by Dr. Cleophus LaRue along with sermons by Bishop Joseph Walker III and Dr. Freddie Haynes III. These electrifying, spirit-filled services transformed the hearts and minds of attendees. The 13th District also reached beyond the four walls of the church by live streaming the worship services.
Powerful Preaching and Teaching Transforms Worship
Minister Byron Cage with the 13th District Choir
Rev. Michael Bell Jr.
Rev. Otis Moss III
Dr. Walter Malone
Dr. Harold Mayberry
Dr. Frederick Wright
Rev. Martin Espinosa
Dr. Clement Fugh
Dr. Forrest Harris
Dr. Floyd Flake
Earnest Pugh L’Tanya Moore Copeland
Dr. James Wade
Dr. Jacqueline McCullough
Anointed Psalmists Aid in Worship Transformation
Vickie Winans
Richard Smallwoord
Bishop McKenzie ensured that the 13th District was spiritually fed by bringing a wide range of top preachers to the District to proclaim the Word and enrich the hearts of parishioners. Preachers included Dr. Michael Bell Sr., Rev. Michael Bell Jr., Dr. Thomas Bess, Rev. Grainger Browning, Rev. Joanne Browning, Dr. Jerry Cannon, Dr. Monica Coleman, Dr. Dennis Dickerson, Rev. Martin Espinosa, Dr. Floyd Flake, Dr. Clement Fugh, Rev. Leo Griffin, Dr. Ray Hammond, Dr. Forrest E. Harris, Presiding Elder Anne Henning-Byfield, Bishop C. Garnett Henning Sr., Bishop Gregory Ingram, Rev. Tony Lee, Dr. Walter Malone, Dr. Harold Mayberry, Rev. Jacqueline McCullough, Dr. Otis Moss III, Bishop Lawrence Reddick III, Dr. Jasmin Sculark, Dr. Calvin Sydnor, Dr. James Wade, Dr. Raphael Warnock, Rev. Matthew Watley, Dr. William Watley Jr., Dr. Lance Watson, Rev. John White II, Dr. Frederick Wright and Bishop McKinley Young.
Dr. Jasmin Sculark
Dr. Lance Watson
The 13th District brought nationally acclaimed recording artists Kathy Taylor and Lady Tremaine Hawkins to transform our worship services. Lady Tremaine Hawkins
6
2008-2012 Thirteenth Episcopal District Quadrennial Report
Psalmist Kathy Taylor 7
AME Quad basic:Quad Report readers 6/13/12 12:33 AM Page 6
Transforming Worship
Annual
Believe Concert
The Trinity Revival Transforms Worship at Christian Education and Leadership Convocation At the 2011 Christian Education Leadership Convocation, Bishop McKenzie organized a Trinity Revival, which included a lecture by Dr. Cleophus LaRue along with sermons by Bishop Joseph Walker III and Dr. Freddie Haynes III. These electrifying, spirit-filled services transformed the hearts and minds of attendees. The 13th District also reached beyond the four walls of the church by live streaming the worship services.
Powerful Preaching and Teaching Transforms Worship
Minister Byron Cage with the 13th District Choir
Rev. Michael Bell Jr.
Rev. Otis Moss III
Dr. Walter Malone
Dr. Harold Mayberry
Dr. Frederick Wright
Rev. Martin Espinosa
Dr. Clement Fugh
Dr. Forrest Harris
Dr. Floyd Flake
Earnest Pugh L’Tanya Moore Copeland
Dr. James Wade
Dr. Jacqueline McCullough
Anointed Psalmists Aid in Worship Transformation
Vickie Winans
Richard Smallwoord
Bishop McKenzie ensured that the 13th District was spiritually fed by bringing a wide range of top preachers to the District to proclaim the Word and enrich the hearts of parishioners. Preachers included Dr. Michael Bell Sr., Rev. Michael Bell Jr., Dr. Thomas Bess, Rev. Grainger Browning, Rev. Joanne Browning, Dr. Jerry Cannon, Dr. Monica Coleman, Dr. Dennis Dickerson, Rev. Martin Espinosa, Dr. Floyd Flake, Dr. Clement Fugh, Rev. Leo Griffin, Dr. Ray Hammond, Dr. Forrest E. Harris, Presiding Elder Anne Henning-Byfield, Bishop C. Garnett Henning Sr., Bishop Gregory Ingram, Rev. Tony Lee, Dr. Walter Malone, Dr. Harold Mayberry, Rev. Jacqueline McCullough, Dr. Otis Moss III, Bishop Lawrence Reddick III, Dr. Jasmin Sculark, Dr. Calvin Sydnor, Dr. James Wade, Dr. Raphael Warnock, Rev. Matthew Watley, Dr. William Watley Jr., Dr. Lance Watson, Rev. John White II, Dr. Frederick Wright and Bishop McKinley Young.
Dr. Jasmin Sculark
Dr. Lance Watson
The 13th District brought nationally acclaimed recording artists Kathy Taylor and Lady Tremaine Hawkins to transform our worship services. Lady Tremaine Hawkins
6
2008-2012 Thirteenth Episcopal District Quadrennial Report
Psalmist Kathy Taylor 7
AME Quad basic:Quad Report readers 6/13/12 12:36 AM Page 8
Transforming Nations 13th District Helps the 16th District – Mission Trip to Jamaica
The 13th District traveled to Jamaica, not for a vacation, but to help. In July 2010, 50 youth and adults from the District journeyed to the 16th Episcopal District in Ocho Ríos, Jamaica, for a mission trip. The Team13 “missionaries” and “construction workers” achieved their stated mission to build a home, refurbish and paint a church, fellowship, and spread the cause of Christ. Bishop Frederick H. Talbot, Supervisor Dr. Sylvia Ross Talbot, Bishop Vashti M. McKenzie, and Supervisor Stan McKenzie
In addition to building a home for a family and fixing up Grace AME Church with paint and other repairs, Bishop Vashti McKenzie and Supervisor Stan McKenzie presented Bishop Sarah Davis and Supervisor Claytie Davis a check for $10,000 to go towards children’s clothing, school supplies, books and shoes. The District also shipped 500 pair of shoes to Haiti. Dr. Clement Fugh also gave a $500 donation to the 16th District. The mission trip to Jamaica was the most adventurous way to be a blessing to others through ministry. It allowed me to see different parts of the world while doing something worthwhile. This mission trip was a life changing experience for me, and I shall never forget it. Every day, I think back to being in Jamaica and I'm reminded how thankful I should be because there are some that are less fortunate than me. To quote John Quincy Adams, ‘If your actions inspire others to dream more, learn more, do more and become more, you are a leader.’ That quote describes what Team 13 did through missions in Jamaica… It has impacted my life forever. Vincent C. Peppers Jr.
Not only did Team13 touch the lives of residents in Ocho Ríos, their own lives were changed. Overseas mission trips and educational exchange programs broaden global perspective; give participants an appreciation for other cultures; and gave our own District a wider world view.
East Tennessee Conference YPD President
One of the most rewarding and humbling experience I have every encountered. To see the struggles of life among our friends, yet the joy of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ seen in every heart; was more than words could express. Mary T. Jones, WTN Conference WMS President
13th District Supports
Relief Efforts for Haiti and Malawi
The 13th District came together and financially helped earthquake ravaged Haiti and Malawi by donating $30,000 to Haiti and Malawi.
8
2008-2012 Thirteenth Episcopal District Quadrennial Report
9
AME Quad basic:Quad Report readers 6/13/12 12:36 AM Page 8
Transforming Nations 13th District Helps the 16th District – Mission Trip to Jamaica
The 13th District traveled to Jamaica, not for a vacation, but to help. In July 2010, 50 youth and adults from the District journeyed to the 16th Episcopal District in Ocho Ríos, Jamaica, for a mission trip. The Team13 “missionaries” and “construction workers” achieved their stated mission to build a home, refurbish and paint a church, fellowship, and spread the cause of Christ. Bishop Frederick H. Talbot, Supervisor Dr. Sylvia Ross Talbot, Bishop Vashti M. McKenzie, and Supervisor Stan McKenzie
In addition to building a home for a family and fixing up Grace AME Church with paint and other repairs, Bishop Vashti McKenzie and Supervisor Stan McKenzie presented Bishop Sarah Davis and Supervisor Claytie Davis a check for $10,000 to go towards children’s clothing, school supplies, books and shoes. The District also shipped 500 pair of shoes to Haiti. Dr. Clement Fugh also gave a $500 donation to the 16th District. The mission trip to Jamaica was the most adventurous way to be a blessing to others through ministry. It allowed me to see different parts of the world while doing something worthwhile. This mission trip was a life changing experience for me, and I shall never forget it. Every day, I think back to being in Jamaica and I'm reminded how thankful I should be because there are some that are less fortunate than me. To quote John Quincy Adams, ‘If your actions inspire others to dream more, learn more, do more and become more, you are a leader.’ That quote describes what Team 13 did through missions in Jamaica… It has impacted my life forever. Vincent C. Peppers Jr.
Not only did Team13 touch the lives of residents in Ocho Ríos, their own lives were changed. Overseas mission trips and educational exchange programs broaden global perspective; give participants an appreciation for other cultures; and gave our own District a wider world view.
East Tennessee Conference YPD President
One of the most rewarding and humbling experience I have every encountered. To see the struggles of life among our friends, yet the joy of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ seen in every heart; was more than words could express. Mary T. Jones, WTN Conference WMS President
13th District Supports
Relief Efforts for Haiti and Malawi
The 13th District came together and financially helped earthquake ravaged Haiti and Malawi by donating $30,000 to Haiti and Malawi.
8
2008-2012 Thirteenth Episcopal District Quadrennial Report
9
AME Quad basic:Quad Report readers 6/13/12 12:37 AM Page 10
Transforming Leadership
Transforming Churches 13th District Collaboration to Promote Energy Efficiency
The 13th District partnered with the Joint Center for Political and Economic Studies, GREEN DMV and the 2nd Episcopal District to help local congregations raise their environmental awareness, make their churches more energy efficient and redirect cost savings to carry out the churches’ mission. This green initiative is built on the premise that environmental responsibility can be a part of a church’s stewardship, yielding both financial and community-oriented benefits. “We want to help our congregations and communities save energy and generate dollar savings that can be used to extend their work,” said Bishop McKenzie, whose 13th Episcopal District includes Tennessee and Kentucky. “Some of our churches are very large and consume a great deal of energy, so there is the potential for significant savings,” she said.
Coaching Clinics
for Clergy and Lay Strengthen Team 13 The 13th District conducted Coaching Clinics for the Lay and Clergy. The Coaching Clinic provides a shared learning experience for pastors, preachers and lay members to sharpen their leadership skills. It is designed to bring persons with demonstrated ability to share in an interactive format. The theme of the clinics was “Ministry in Anxious Times: Being Calm, Courageous and Connected, No Matter What.” Coaches each provided their perspective to the clergy and lay as they coached Team 13 to be stronger. St. John AME Church, Frankfort, KY
St. John AME Church in Frankfort, Kentucky was identified as a pilot church in this project. The church was analyzed to determine how it can be improved and become more “green”. The results of the study will be shared at the 49th Session of the General Conference. Rev. Anne Henning Byfield
The initiative is supported by a grant from the Walmart Foundation.
Rev. Gerald Cooper
New Buildings
Coaches included:
St. John AME Church, Memphis, Tennessee
New Churches Jordan River Outreach AME Church, Louisville, KY and McKenzie Temple AME Church, Memphis, Tennessee
Renovated Church St. John AME Church, Memphis, Tennessee
Rev. Dr. James Forbes Jr.
St. Matthew AME Church, Rossview, Tennessee Rev Dr. James F. Miller
Rev. Dr. Frank M. Reid III
l Rev. Gerald Cooper, Pastor, St. James AME Church, Cleveland, Ohio l Rev. Dr. James Forbes Jr., Senior Pastor Emeritus, Riverside Church, New York, New York l Rev. Anne Henning-Byfield, Presiding Elder, North District Indiana, Annual Conference l Rev. Dr. James F. Miller, Senior Pastor, DuPage AME Church, Lisle, Illinois l Rev. Dr. Frank M. Reid III, Pastor, Bethel AME Church, Baltimore, Maryland
Clergy Institute Mortgages Burned Greater Bethel AME Church Payne Chapel AME Church Round Hill AME Church Salem AME Church
The day prior to the opening of the Annual Conference, while the missionaries were having their convention, members of the clergy gathered to engage in day long institute that addressed issues and concerns surrounding congregational life. Topics included health and wellness, handling difficult people, the care and nurture of members, developing leaders, growing churches, and AME 101.
Mortgage Burning at Round Hill AME Church 10
2008-2012 Thirteenth Episcopal District Quadrennial Report
11
AME Quad basic:Quad Report readers 6/13/12 12:37 AM Page 10
Transforming Leadership
Transforming Churches 13th District Collaboration to Promote Energy Efficiency
The 13th District partnered with the Joint Center for Political and Economic Studies, GREEN DMV and the 2nd Episcopal District to help local congregations raise their environmental awareness, make their churches more energy efficient and redirect cost savings to carry out the churches’ mission. This green initiative is built on the premise that environmental responsibility can be a part of a church’s stewardship, yielding both financial and community-oriented benefits. “We want to help our congregations and communities save energy and generate dollar savings that can be used to extend their work,” said Bishop McKenzie, whose 13th Episcopal District includes Tennessee and Kentucky. “Some of our churches are very large and consume a great deal of energy, so there is the potential for significant savings,” she said.
Coaching Clinics
for Clergy and Lay Strengthen Team 13 The 13th District conducted Coaching Clinics for the Lay and Clergy. The Coaching Clinic provides a shared learning experience for pastors, preachers and lay members to sharpen their leadership skills. It is designed to bring persons with demonstrated ability to share in an interactive format. The theme of the clinics was “Ministry in Anxious Times: Being Calm, Courageous and Connected, No Matter What.” Coaches each provided their perspective to the clergy and lay as they coached Team 13 to be stronger. St. John AME Church, Frankfort, KY
St. John AME Church in Frankfort, Kentucky was identified as a pilot church in this project. The church was analyzed to determine how it can be improved and become more “green”. The results of the study will be shared at the 49th Session of the General Conference. Rev. Anne Henning Byfield
The initiative is supported by a grant from the Walmart Foundation.
Rev. Gerald Cooper
New Buildings
Coaches included:
St. John AME Church, Memphis, Tennessee
New Churches Jordan River Outreach AME Church, Louisville, KY and McKenzie Temple AME Church, Memphis, Tennessee
Renovated Church St. John AME Church, Memphis, Tennessee
Rev. Dr. James Forbes Jr.
St. Matthew AME Church, Rossview, Tennessee Rev Dr. James F. Miller
Rev. Dr. Frank M. Reid III
l Rev. Gerald Cooper, Pastor, St. James AME Church, Cleveland, Ohio l Rev. Dr. James Forbes Jr., Senior Pastor Emeritus, Riverside Church, New York, New York l Rev. Anne Henning-Byfield, Presiding Elder, North District Indiana, Annual Conference l Rev. Dr. James F. Miller, Senior Pastor, DuPage AME Church, Lisle, Illinois l Rev. Dr. Frank M. Reid III, Pastor, Bethel AME Church, Baltimore, Maryland
Clergy Institute Mortgages Burned Greater Bethel AME Church Payne Chapel AME Church Round Hill AME Church Salem AME Church
The day prior to the opening of the Annual Conference, while the missionaries were having their convention, members of the clergy gathered to engage in day long institute that addressed issues and concerns surrounding congregational life. Topics included health and wellness, handling difficult people, the care and nurture of members, developing leaders, growing churches, and AME 101.
Mortgage Burning at Round Hill AME Church 10
2008-2012 Thirteenth Episcopal District Quadrennial Report
11
AME Quad basic:Quad Report readers 6/13/12 12:38 AM Page 12
Transforming Christian Education
Newly Transformed Christian Education and Leadership Convocation
The 13th District Christian Education and Leadership Convocation transformed through age appropriate ministry that enlightened all in attendance. With teaching and preaching by nationally known preachers such as Dr. Lance Watson, Dr. Jasmin Sculark, Dr. Michael Bell Sr., Rev. Michael Bell Jr. and Rev. Martin Espinosa. The instruction was focused on the following themes: Christian Education • • • •
2008 – The Real Deal: Character Counts 2009 - Connecting the Connection: Where You At? Spiritually, Physically, Emotionally 2010 - It’s Easy Being Green – Being Good Stewards of the Environment 2011 - The Church Works – Who we are. What we do. Why we do it. “…so faith without works is dead” James 2:26
Transforming Lives
13th District Adults and Youth follow the ending of the Underground Railroad in the Roots and Wings Study Tour The 13th District raised expectations for life, career and culture in a Roots and Wings Study Tour. A delegation of youth and adults visited Toronto, Canada, for four days. Toronto is the location where many enslaved Africans found freedom when they followed the North Star on the Underground Railroad. On the tour, the group visited the underground railway, “The Hope Centre Church” in Mississauga, including the Black history walking tour, Niagara Falls, and a local AME Church.
Each convocation included, “Holy Ghost Hollar,” a late night Gospel experience that focused on youth empowerment and fellowship. There was also “Night At The Apollo” that showcased youth gifts and talents. In addition, a young adult Call to Worship was developed and utilized at the conference.
13th District Creates Rites of Passage Program CEO “Character, Education and Opportunity” The CEO Rites of Passage Program was another significant part of the “Be Ye Transformed” vision of Bishop McKenzie, who recognized the need to equip and empower the youth of the 13th Episcopal District. CEO, which is an acronym for Character, Education, and Opportunity, focused on students in grades six through eight, with the goal of helping students develop a vision for the future so they could take full advantage of the opportunities that would lie ahead in high school. "We chose to work with students in middle school in hopes of instilling a sense of vision before they entered high school,” said Rev. Darrell Scott who with his wife the Dr. Robin Scott served as CEO coordinators. During the Christian Education and Leadership Convocation, adult leaders from across the District provided sessions for participants that focused on love of God, love of self, and love of community. Training was also provided in financial literacy and environmental awareness. The hard work of the young people was recognized and celebrated during an evening worship service at the Convocation. Over 100 young people from across the 13th District graduated from the CEO Rites of Passage Ministry. 12
2008-2012 Thirteenth Episcopal District Quadrennial Report
The delegation had an experience of a lifetime! Especially for the youth...it was life changing.
For clergy, there were special courses taught by seminarytrained instructors that included opportunities to earn continuing education credits through Payne Theological Seminary.
13th District Joins
Father’s Day Rally Against Prostate Cancer
Approximately 25 churches in the13th District joined in the National Prostate Cancer Rally led by the Prostate Health Education Network. The rally has promoted prostate cancer awareness on Father’s Day for the past three years. In honoring our fathers and observing Prostate Cancer Awareness, various churches rallied to increase awareness and transform lives. Some celebrations gave men blue carnations or blue ribbons during morning worship service, prayed for Prostate Cancer survivors and victims, heard testimonies from cancer survivors as well as passed out literature from local health departments on the disease. The district also helped in pushing the national campaign by cancer survivors participating in radio interviews. 13
AME Quad basic:Quad Report readers 6/13/12 12:38 AM Page 12
Transforming Christian Education
Newly Transformed Christian Education and Leadership Convocation
The 13th District Christian Education and Leadership Convocation transformed through age appropriate ministry that enlightened all in attendance. With teaching and preaching by nationally known preachers such as Dr. Lance Watson, Dr. Jasmin Sculark, Dr. Michael Bell Sr., Rev. Michael Bell Jr. and Rev. Martin Espinosa. The instruction was focused on the following themes: Christian Education • • • •
2008 – The Real Deal: Character Counts 2009 - Connecting the Connection: Where You At? Spiritually, Physically, Emotionally 2010 - It’s Easy Being Green – Being Good Stewards of the Environment 2011 - The Church Works – Who we are. What we do. Why we do it. “…so faith without works is dead” James 2:26
Transforming Lives
13th District Adults and Youth follow the ending of the Underground Railroad in the Roots and Wings Study Tour The 13th District raised expectations for life, career and culture in a Roots and Wings Study Tour. A delegation of youth and adults visited Toronto, Canada, for four days. Toronto is the location where many enslaved Africans found freedom when they followed the North Star on the Underground Railroad. On the tour, the group visited the underground railway, “The Hope Centre Church” in Mississauga, including the Black history walking tour, Niagara Falls, and a local AME Church.
Each convocation included, “Holy Ghost Hollar,” a late night Gospel experience that focused on youth empowerment and fellowship. There was also “Night At The Apollo” that showcased youth gifts and talents. In addition, a young adult Call to Worship was developed and utilized at the conference.
13th District Creates Rites of Passage Program CEO “Character, Education and Opportunity” The CEO Rites of Passage Program was another significant part of the “Be Ye Transformed” vision of Bishop McKenzie, who recognized the need to equip and empower the youth of the 13th Episcopal District. CEO, which is an acronym for Character, Education, and Opportunity, focused on students in grades six through eight, with the goal of helping students develop a vision for the future so they could take full advantage of the opportunities that would lie ahead in high school. "We chose to work with students in middle school in hopes of instilling a sense of vision before they entered high school,” said Rev. Darrell Scott who with his wife the Dr. Robin Scott served as CEO coordinators. During the Christian Education and Leadership Convocation, adult leaders from across the District provided sessions for participants that focused on love of God, love of self, and love of community. Training was also provided in financial literacy and environmental awareness. The hard work of the young people was recognized and celebrated during an evening worship service at the Convocation. Over 100 young people from across the 13th District graduated from the CEO Rites of Passage Ministry. 12
2008-2012 Thirteenth Episcopal District Quadrennial Report
The delegation had an experience of a lifetime! Especially for the youth...it was life changing.
For clergy, there were special courses taught by seminarytrained instructors that included opportunities to earn continuing education credits through Payne Theological Seminary.
13th District Joins
Father’s Day Rally Against Prostate Cancer
Approximately 25 churches in the13th District joined in the National Prostate Cancer Rally led by the Prostate Health Education Network. The rally has promoted prostate cancer awareness on Father’s Day for the past three years. In honoring our fathers and observing Prostate Cancer Awareness, various churches rallied to increase awareness and transform lives. Some celebrations gave men blue carnations or blue ribbons during morning worship service, prayed for Prostate Cancer survivors and victims, heard testimonies from cancer survivors as well as passed out literature from local health departments on the disease. The district also helped in pushing the national campaign by cancer survivors participating in radio interviews. 13
AME Quad basic:Quad Report readers 6/13/12 12:39 AM Page 14
Transforming Communities
13th District Convenes
Newly Transformed Christian Education and Leadership Convocation
in Nashville, Tennessee
Ravaged to Recovery - The Great Flood of 2010: Nashville and Kentucky Rising A tremendous flood devastated the Middle Tennessee area in the Spring of 2010. The Cumberland River crested at 52.5 feet, flooding Nashville’s downtown businesses, hotel complexes, football stadiums, shopping malls and entire neighborhoods. Opryland Hotel, the site of the 2012 General Conference, was flooded to the second floor. The State incurred $1.5 billion in damages. Twenty-three people died. We did not lose any churches; however, there was significant water and roof damage, basement and lower level flooding. At least twenty churches reported that they sustained flood, wind and water damage. Three were severely damaged. Some of our members were rescued from their rooftops and others were brought to safety by boats. Some had to leave their homes and cars because of rising water and could not return for one to two weeks.
Interfaith Service Soon after The Great Flood of 2010 in Nashville, Bishop McKenzie and the 13th District convened for an interfaith service themed, “I Need You to Survive.” It was held on Tuesday, May 11, 2010, at Greater Bethel AME Church in Nashville. Bishop McKenzie called clergy and laity together to begin the “clean up” effort, raise funds to support damaged churches, displaced families, and sponsor a service to bring diverse people together and present a unified response. “It was important that the diverse faith community come together to demonstrate that the Great Flood of 2010 did not affect some of us but all of us,” said Bishop McKenzie. “It was at times such as these that we were forced to take a long hard look at who we are, what we value, and what we deem important. We were compelled to examine where we have been and where we needed to go.”
Bishop McKenzie led a delegation of Tennessee Annual Conference presiding elders, pastors, preachers, and parishioners in the early days of flooding. They toured the flood-ravaged area of North Nashville, stopping by St. Paul AME Church, where Rev. Harold Love pastors. St. Paul AME Church served as the Flood Resource Center, distributing water and food to residents, meals for rescue workers, and critical recovery information. AMEs fanned out across the area to deliver cleaning supplies, trash bags and help clean out mud and debris. “Ninety-nine year old Elsie Smith was at home when the water began to rise. She said she wasn’t scared. She walks without a cane or walker, has a strong grip and even stronger heart. When we went to encourage her during the tour, the missionary who would soon turn 100 years old encouraged us,” said Bishop McKenzie. Sister Smith said, “However, I lost nothing important. Things can be replaced. It’s harder to replace memories. It is impossible to replace the lives of those swept away by rushing water.” The 13th District raised funds to help St. James AMEC in Danville, Kentucky, to purchase the heating and cooling units destroyed by floodwaters in the basement. St Matthew AMEC, Rossview, Tennessee, was severely damaged by wind and rain. The church, under the leadership of Rev. Deshnell Cobbin was completely renovated.
14
2008-2012 Thirteenth Episcopal District Quadrennial Report
A crowd of over 450 persons came together from a variety of faith traditions to sing, pray, read sacred texts, and encourage one another to restore and rebuild a united Nashville. “It was a time to show strength and solidarity,” noted host pastor Rev. Michael Broadnax. “That night, it was clear that people from different faith communities had, at once, the courage and the humility to come together to seek the help that only comes from a source greater than us and the help that resides within each of us,” Rev. Roderick Belin, the Interfaith Service Coordinator, added.
13th District
Supports Tornado and Storm Victims ~ Alabama, Murfreesboro and West Tennessee
The 13th Episcopal District provided disaster relief to tornado and storm victims within the 13th District – Murfreesboro, Tennessee and in the West Tennessee area. The District raised funds for the tornado victims in the 9 Episcopal District, Alabama, as well. In all, donations of cash and gift cards totaled $18,500. 15
AME Quad basic:Quad Report readers 6/13/12 12:39 AM Page 14
Transforming Communities
13th District Convenes
Newly Transformed Christian Education and Leadership Convocation
in Nashville, Tennessee
Ravaged to Recovery - The Great Flood of 2010: Nashville and Kentucky Rising A tremendous flood devastated the Middle Tennessee area in the Spring of 2010. The Cumberland River crested at 52.5 feet, flooding Nashville’s downtown businesses, hotel complexes, football stadiums, shopping malls and entire neighborhoods. Opryland Hotel, the site of the 2012 General Conference, was flooded to the second floor. The State incurred $1.5 billion in damages. Twenty-three people died. We did not lose any churches; however, there was significant water and roof damage, basement and lower level flooding. At least twenty churches reported that they sustained flood, wind and water damage. Three were severely damaged. Some of our members were rescued from their rooftops and others were brought to safety by boats. Some had to leave their homes and cars because of rising water and could not return for one to two weeks.
Interfaith Service Soon after The Great Flood of 2010 in Nashville, Bishop McKenzie and the 13th District convened for an interfaith service themed, “I Need You to Survive.” It was held on Tuesday, May 11, 2010, at Greater Bethel AME Church in Nashville. Bishop McKenzie called clergy and laity together to begin the “clean up” effort, raise funds to support damaged churches, displaced families, and sponsor a service to bring diverse people together and present a unified response. “It was important that the diverse faith community come together to demonstrate that the Great Flood of 2010 did not affect some of us but all of us,” said Bishop McKenzie. “It was at times such as these that we were forced to take a long hard look at who we are, what we value, and what we deem important. We were compelled to examine where we have been and where we needed to go.”
Bishop McKenzie led a delegation of Tennessee Annual Conference presiding elders, pastors, preachers, and parishioners in the early days of flooding. They toured the flood-ravaged area of North Nashville, stopping by St. Paul AME Church, where Rev. Harold Love pastors. St. Paul AME Church served as the Flood Resource Center, distributing water and food to residents, meals for rescue workers, and critical recovery information. AMEs fanned out across the area to deliver cleaning supplies, trash bags and help clean out mud and debris. “Ninety-nine year old Elsie Smith was at home when the water began to rise. She said she wasn’t scared. She walks without a cane or walker, has a strong grip and even stronger heart. When we went to encourage her during the tour, the missionary who would soon turn 100 years old encouraged us,” said Bishop McKenzie. Sister Smith said, “However, I lost nothing important. Things can be replaced. It’s harder to replace memories. It is impossible to replace the lives of those swept away by rushing water.” The 13th District raised funds to help St. James AMEC in Danville, Kentucky, to purchase the heating and cooling units destroyed by floodwaters in the basement. St Matthew AMEC, Rossview, Tennessee, was severely damaged by wind and rain. The church, under the leadership of Rev. Deshnell Cobbin was completely renovated.
14
2008-2012 Thirteenth Episcopal District Quadrennial Report
A crowd of over 450 persons came together from a variety of faith traditions to sing, pray, read sacred texts, and encourage one another to restore and rebuild a united Nashville. “It was a time to show strength and solidarity,” noted host pastor Rev. Michael Broadnax. “That night, it was clear that people from different faith communities had, at once, the courage and the humility to come together to seek the help that only comes from a source greater than us and the help that resides within each of us,” Rev. Roderick Belin, the Interfaith Service Coordinator, added.
13th District
Supports Tornado and Storm Victims ~ Alabama, Murfreesboro and West Tennessee
The 13th Episcopal District provided disaster relief to tornado and storm victims within the 13th District – Murfreesboro, Tennessee and in the West Tennessee area. The District raised funds for the tornado victims in the 9 Episcopal District, Alabama, as well. In all, donations of cash and gift cards totaled $18,500. 15
AME Quad basic:Quad Report readers 6/13/12 12:41 AM Page 16
Transforming Disciples Over the past quadrennial we have had conferences with on a wide variety of topics that focused attention on critical issues with special guest presenters that has strengthened the District and transformed lives.
The themes are as follows: Founder’s Day - 2009 - C. O. P. E. Creating Opportunities for Personal Economic Enhancement - 2010 - State of Emergency (Natural Disaster Preparedness and Disaster Relief) - 2011 - Transforming Lives (transforming leadership, transforming our emotional health, transforming chaotic times and transforming historical perspectives) - 2012 - Traditioned Innovation: African Methodists Living Towards the Future in Light of the Past
Mid Year -
2009 - C.O.P.E. – Creating Opportunities in Personal Economics 2010 - iChurch: Advancing the Kingdom – Intergenerational, Internet, Inclusive, International 2011 - What about the Children: The Challenges Facing Schools and Our Children in them 2012 - Surviving Uncertain Seasons - “God didn’t give us a spirit of fear; but of power, and of love and a sound mind.” 2 Timothy 1:7
The honorees included: 2010 Awardees
2009 Awardees
Episcopal Leadership l Bishop Zedekiah L. Grady l Bishop Robert V. Webster
Community Leadership l Dr. Wesley McClure, President of Lane College l Mrs. Shirlene Mercer, Political and community leader
Community Leadership l Mr. Winston Pittman and Mrs. Alma Pittman, Business Leader and Entrepreneurs l Dr. Mary Smith Stowe, Retired Kentucky State University President
Honoring Transforming Leaders 13th District Honors Legendary Leaders
For the past six years, Bishop McKenzie has honored Legendary Leaders in Kentucky and Tennessee. In addition, she honored the Episcopal leadership of the retired Bishops of the AME Church. These leaders have made significant contributions to their church, community as well as the world.
The honorees included: 2012 Awardees
2011 Awardees
Episcopal Leadership l Bishop Henry Allen Belin Jr.
Episcopal Leadership l Bishop Vinton R. Anderson l Bishop Frank C. Cummings l Bishop Richard A. Hildebrand
Community Leadership l Mr. Carson Hayes, Camp Primm Simmons leadership l Mr. Robert Lipscomb, Director of Housing and Community Development for City of Memphis l Mr. Rick Starks, Property Management leadership l Mr. Joseph Turner, Vice Chair, Believe, Inc. l Mayor A. C. Wharton Jr., Mayor of Memphis 16
2008-2012 Thirteenth Episcopal District Quadrennial Report
Community Leadership l Mr. John Clayborn, West TN Choir leadership l Mr. Claude Johnson, Law Enforcement leadership l Attorney Herman Morris, City Attorney for Memphis, TN l Dr. Edward W. Reed, pioneer in Medical Field l Ms. Cecelia Sawyer, Healthcare Executive
17
AME Quad basic:Quad Report readers 6/13/12 12:41 AM Page 16
Transforming Disciples Over the past quadrennial we have had conferences with on a wide variety of topics that focused attention on critical issues with special guest presenters that has strengthened the District and transformed lives.
The themes are as follows: Founder’s Day - 2009 - C. O. P. E. Creating Opportunities for Personal Economic Enhancement - 2010 - State of Emergency (Natural Disaster Preparedness and Disaster Relief) - 2011 - Transforming Lives (transforming leadership, transforming our emotional health, transforming chaotic times and transforming historical perspectives) - 2012 - Traditioned Innovation: African Methodists Living Towards the Future in Light of the Past
Mid Year -
2009 - C.O.P.E. – Creating Opportunities in Personal Economics 2010 - iChurch: Advancing the Kingdom – Intergenerational, Internet, Inclusive, International 2011 - What about the Children: The Challenges Facing Schools and Our Children in them 2012 - Surviving Uncertain Seasons - “God didn’t give us a spirit of fear; but of power, and of love and a sound mind.” 2 Timothy 1:7
The honorees included: 2010 Awardees
2009 Awardees
Episcopal Leadership l Bishop Zedekiah L. Grady l Bishop Robert V. Webster
Community Leadership l Dr. Wesley McClure, President of Lane College l Mrs. Shirlene Mercer, Political and community leader
Community Leadership l Mr. Winston Pittman and Mrs. Alma Pittman, Business Leader and Entrepreneurs l Dr. Mary Smith Stowe, Retired Kentucky State University President
Honoring Transforming Leaders 13th District Honors Legendary Leaders
For the past six years, Bishop McKenzie has honored Legendary Leaders in Kentucky and Tennessee. In addition, she honored the Episcopal leadership of the retired Bishops of the AME Church. These leaders have made significant contributions to their church, community as well as the world.
The honorees included: 2012 Awardees
2011 Awardees
Episcopal Leadership l Bishop Henry Allen Belin Jr.
Episcopal Leadership l Bishop Vinton R. Anderson l Bishop Frank C. Cummings l Bishop Richard A. Hildebrand
Community Leadership l Mr. Carson Hayes, Camp Primm Simmons leadership l Mr. Robert Lipscomb, Director of Housing and Community Development for City of Memphis l Mr. Rick Starks, Property Management leadership l Mr. Joseph Turner, Vice Chair, Believe, Inc. l Mayor A. C. Wharton Jr., Mayor of Memphis 16
2008-2012 Thirteenth Episcopal District Quadrennial Report
Community Leadership l Mr. John Clayborn, West TN Choir leadership l Mr. Claude Johnson, Law Enforcement leadership l Attorney Herman Morris, City Attorney for Memphis, TN l Dr. Edward W. Reed, pioneer in Medical Field l Ms. Cecelia Sawyer, Healthcare Executive
17
AME Quad basic:Quad Report readers 6/13/12 12:42 AM Page 18
Praycation
Transforming Ecumenical Relations
At the Christian Education and Leadership Convocation in 2009, Bishop McKenzie taught a series on prayer. The district was encouraged to take a “Praycation,” praying that is a break from routine devotions, during the month of August. The purpose of Praycation, a daily moment to pray and connect with God, is to deepen our relationship with God by consenting to God presence and action in our hearts, minds and the ordinary activities in our lives. This helped bring about a freedom that enabled people to respond to daily challenges instead of reacting to critical moments.
13th District Reaches Out and Worships with Christian Methodist Episcopal Church (CME)
Following the success of the interfaith service after the Great Flood of 2010, Bishop McKenzie organized an opportunity for the African Methodist Episcopal Church and the Christian Methodist Episcopal Church to foster a greater relationship with one another in Tennessee. During the November, 2011, Planning Meeting, a free fellowship dinner between the historic Methodist bodies was held. The dinner was followed by a thought-provoking panel discussion on contemporary issues facing historically predominantly black churches. Bishop Lawrence L. Reddick III, Presiding Prelate of the First Episcopal District, CME Church, was the guest preacher at that evening’s opening worship service. Later, Bishop McKenzie worshipped with the First District CME Church at their Spring Convocation in Memphis, Tennessee in 2012.
As a result, every August since then the District has taken a Praycation. Each year Bishop McKenzie uses an innovative approach to prayer and the study of God’s Word. She has started a prayer blog to help the District to further develop this spiritual discipline. It is another tool in her evangelistic and spiritual tool kit. The blog is found at www.vashtimckenzie.blogspot.com.
Live Streaming
Bishop L. L. Reddick III
Bishop Reddick and CME Presiding Elders
Transforming Evangelism This Is Your Wake Up Call Bishop McKenzie has been innovative in her approach to evangelism by traditional means. For the past Quadrennial she has used a Website, www.thisisyourwakeupcallonline.com, to provide daily verbal devotion for thousands of individuals worldwide. This online community was created through a series of meditations, sermons, thoughts, quotes and commentaries from diverse sources that inspire and inform. This website has three components – Listen (for audio devotions), Watch (for video inspirations), and Read (for meditations, sermons and informational articles). Bishop McKenzie also promotes her daily inspirational messages through a Twitter and Facebook account, which boast a combined reach of nearly 23,000 friends and followers.
The hymn writer asks the question, “How to reach the masses those of every birth…?” The answer was to lift Jesus up and draw the world. Bishop McKenzie added a 21st century dimension to the answer by instituting live streaming of conferences. This created an opportunity for individuals around the country to take part in the anointed teaching and preaching of the 13th District events.
Transforming Homes
The 13th District owns apartments – Economic Development and Ministry The 13th Episcopal District owns and manages two apartment complexes in Kentucky. The Henry M. Green Senior Apartments is a 125 unit 100% section 8 housing near downtown Louisville, which is critical to those who are economically challenged. Greater Community Housing is a $1.5 million property secured in 2006 that has 15 units, which ministers to the physically challenged. As a result of the success of these two properties, the 13th District is in the midst of negotiating with the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to take over and manage a new property, Goodwill Village in Covington, Kentucky.
Goodwill Village Apartments
Henry M. Green Apartments and Greater Community Housing 18
2008-2012 Thirteenth Episcopal District Quadrennial Report
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AME Quad basic:Quad Report readers 6/13/12 12:42 AM Page 18
Praycation
Transforming Ecumenical Relations
At the Christian Education and Leadership Convocation in 2009, Bishop McKenzie taught a series on prayer. The district was encouraged to take a “Praycation,” praying that is a break from routine devotions, during the month of August. The purpose of Praycation, a daily moment to pray and connect with God, is to deepen our relationship with God by consenting to God presence and action in our hearts, minds and the ordinary activities in our lives. This helped bring about a freedom that enabled people to respond to daily challenges instead of reacting to critical moments.
13th District Reaches Out and Worships with Christian Methodist Episcopal Church (CME)
Following the success of the interfaith service after the Great Flood of 2010, Bishop McKenzie organized an opportunity for the African Methodist Episcopal Church and the Christian Methodist Episcopal Church to foster a greater relationship with one another in Tennessee. During the November, 2011, Planning Meeting, a free fellowship dinner between the historic Methodist bodies was held. The dinner was followed by a thought-provoking panel discussion on contemporary issues facing historically predominantly black churches. Bishop Lawrence L. Reddick III, Presiding Prelate of the First Episcopal District, CME Church, was the guest preacher at that evening’s opening worship service. Later, Bishop McKenzie worshipped with the First District CME Church at their Spring Convocation in Memphis, Tennessee in 2012.
As a result, every August since then the District has taken a Praycation. Each year Bishop McKenzie uses an innovative approach to prayer and the study of God’s Word. She has started a prayer blog to help the District to further develop this spiritual discipline. It is another tool in her evangelistic and spiritual tool kit. The blog is found at www.vashtimckenzie.blogspot.com.
Live Streaming
Bishop L. L. Reddick III
Bishop Reddick and CME Presiding Elders
Transforming Evangelism This Is Your Wake Up Call Bishop McKenzie has been innovative in her approach to evangelism by traditional means. For the past Quadrennial she has used a Website, www.thisisyourwakeupcallonline.com, to provide daily verbal devotion for thousands of individuals worldwide. This online community was created through a series of meditations, sermons, thoughts, quotes and commentaries from diverse sources that inspire and inform. This website has three components – Listen (for audio devotions), Watch (for video inspirations), and Read (for meditations, sermons and informational articles). Bishop McKenzie also promotes her daily inspirational messages through a Twitter and Facebook account, which boast a combined reach of nearly 23,000 friends and followers.
The hymn writer asks the question, “How to reach the masses those of every birth…?” The answer was to lift Jesus up and draw the world. Bishop McKenzie added a 21st century dimension to the answer by instituting live streaming of conferences. This created an opportunity for individuals around the country to take part in the anointed teaching and preaching of the 13th District events.
Transforming Homes
The 13th District owns apartments – Economic Development and Ministry The 13th Episcopal District owns and manages two apartment complexes in Kentucky. The Henry M. Green Senior Apartments is a 125 unit 100% section 8 housing near downtown Louisville, which is critical to those who are economically challenged. Greater Community Housing is a $1.5 million property secured in 2006 that has 15 units, which ministers to the physically challenged. As a result of the success of these two properties, the 13th District is in the midst of negotiating with the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to take over and manage a new property, Goodwill Village in Covington, Kentucky.
Goodwill Village Apartments
Henry M. Green Apartments and Greater Community Housing 18
2008-2012 Thirteenth Episcopal District Quadrennial Report
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AME Quad basic:Quad Report readers 6/13/12 12:44 AM Page 20
Transforming Administration The Results Number of Conversions
2,749
Number of Baptisms
1,882
Number of Accessions
3,547
Total Members
32,749
Registered Voters
20,189
Total Churches
178
Total Pastors
178
Total Presiding Elders
7
Number of Annual Conferences
5
Total Number of Preachers (Includes Itinerant and Local Elders and Deacons, Superannuated and Supernumerary Preachers)
184
Number of Retired Ministers
39
Number of Decisions
Several
Number of Church Schools
170
Number of Missionary Societies
152
Number of Persons Ordained: Local Elders and Deacons Itinerant Elders/Deacons
46 32
Total Persons Ordained General Budget Fund
Necrology Bishop Vernon Randolph Byrd Rev. Joann Allen Rev. Donald Cowley Rev. Walter Cox Rev. Henry L. Croom Rev. Mary Dangerfield Rev. Rogers W. Driver, Jr. 20
Community Involvement Bishop Vashti Murphy McKenzie
Bishop McKenzie is an outstanding leader whose influence is felt worldwide. This compassionate, courageous, tenacious woman of God truly has the heart of the people and has helped to make a spiritual, emotional, physical and financial difference in the lives of people.
Bishop McKenzie serves on the
White House Faith Council In 2009, President Barack Obama selected Bishop McKenzie to serve on his inaugural White House Faith-based Neighborhood and Partnership Council. In this capacity, she served as one of 25 persons of faith who made recommendations to the highest branches of government. Currently Bishop McKenzie is one of 35 National Co-Chairs for the Obama for America 2012 campaign.
78 $1,875,704
Rev. Cornelius Fairbee Rev. Reginald T. Farris Rev. Clarence Greer, Sr. Rev. James A. Hendon Rev. Shelda Herring Rev. Edward A. Jackson Rev. Charles E. Jenkins, Sr.
2008-2012 Thirteenth Episcopal District Quadrennial Report
Rev. Ned Knowles Rev. Thomas Mayes Rev. J. C. Miller Rev. William E. Mitchell Rev. Shawanda Parker Rev. Anthony Reeves Rev. Webbie R. Rogers
Courtesy: JET Magazine, May 9/16, 2011
Rev. William F. Scruggs Rev. Julius Smith, Sr. Rev. David H. Strong Rev. Robert Taylor Rev. Leland H. Webster Rev. Willie Webster Rev. Robbie Wheeler
Not Without A Struggle Bishop McKenzie updated and revised her book Not Without a Struggle. This book, which focuses on leadership development for African American Women in Ministry, is a standard textbook in many seminaries, colleges and universities. The book is also a perennial best seller for Pilgrim Press.
21
AME Quad basic:Quad Report readers 6/13/12 12:44 AM Page 20
Transforming Administration The Results Number of Conversions
2,749
Number of Baptisms
1,882
Number of Accessions
3,547
Total Members
32,749
Registered Voters
20,189
Total Churches
178
Total Pastors
178
Total Presiding Elders
7
Number of Annual Conferences
5
Total Number of Preachers (Includes Itinerant and Local Elders and Deacons, Superannuated and Supernumerary Preachers)
184
Number of Retired Ministers
39
Number of Decisions
Several
Number of Church Schools
170
Number of Missionary Societies
152
Number of Persons Ordained: Local Elders and Deacons Itinerant Elders/Deacons
46 32
Total Persons Ordained General Budget Fund
Necrology Bishop Vernon Randolph Byrd Rev. Joann Allen Rev. Donald Cowley Rev. Walter Cox Rev. Henry L. Croom Rev. Mary Dangerfield Rev. Rogers W. Driver, Jr. 20
Community Involvement Bishop Vashti Murphy McKenzie
Bishop McKenzie is an outstanding leader whose influence is felt worldwide. This compassionate, courageous, tenacious woman of God truly has the heart of the people and has helped to make a spiritual, emotional, physical and financial difference in the lives of people.
Bishop McKenzie serves on the
White House Faith Council In 2009, President Barack Obama selected Bishop McKenzie to serve on his inaugural White House Faith-based Neighborhood and Partnership Council. In this capacity, she served as one of 25 persons of faith who made recommendations to the highest branches of government. Currently Bishop McKenzie is one of 35 National Co-Chairs for the Obama for America 2012 campaign.
78 $1,875,704
Rev. Cornelius Fairbee Rev. Reginald T. Farris Rev. Clarence Greer, Sr. Rev. James A. Hendon Rev. Shelda Herring Rev. Edward A. Jackson Rev. Charles E. Jenkins, Sr.
2008-2012 Thirteenth Episcopal District Quadrennial Report
Rev. Ned Knowles Rev. Thomas Mayes Rev. J. C. Miller Rev. William E. Mitchell Rev. Shawanda Parker Rev. Anthony Reeves Rev. Webbie R. Rogers
Courtesy: JET Magazine, May 9/16, 2011
Rev. William F. Scruggs Rev. Julius Smith, Sr. Rev. David H. Strong Rev. Robert Taylor Rev. Leland H. Webster Rev. Willie Webster Rev. Robbie Wheeler
Not Without A Struggle Bishop McKenzie updated and revised her book Not Without a Struggle. This book, which focuses on leadership development for African American Women in Ministry, is a standard textbook in many seminaries, colleges and universities. The book is also a perennial best seller for Pilgrim Press.
21
AME Quad basic:Quad Report readers 6/13/12 12:45 AM Page 22
Closing Remarks I
t has been an absolute joy for Supervisor Stan and I to serve as the Episcopal leadership team of the 13th Episcopal District since 2004. The preachers and people enthusiastically embraced our ambitious vision to transform lives, churches and communities across the 13th Episcopal District. The preachers and people stepped boldly to tackle critical hindering issues and improved effectiveness of both mission and ministry.
Bishop and Supervisor
Accolades go to Presiding Elders, including Rev. Robert E. Keesee, Rev. Troy Merritt, Rev. Linda Thomas Martin, Rev. C. Robert Finch, Rev. Kenneth Hill, Rev. Ralph Johnson, and Rev. Troy Thomas. The vision was kept alive in our local congregations by the pastors and preachers. The people fanned the fires of faith and were beneficiaries of the resulting blessings. Luncheon Honoring Supervisor Stan McKenzie
Presiding Elders with Bishop McKenzie Host Presiding Elders,
Special Thanks goes to Team 13 for Host Pastors, their exceptional efforts in hosting the Supervisor McKenzie with Bishop McKenzie 49th Session on of the General Conference. We appreciate the leadership of the Host Pastors, the Rev. Roderick Belin, Rev. Michael Broadnax, Rev. Sidney Bryant, Rev. Dennis Lawson, Rev. W. Antoni Sinkfield, Rev. Edward Thompson and the wonderful Team 13 volunteers including all of the committee chairs and host of volunteers who put in significant time and effort toward the success of this General Conference. The home team in our Episcopal District Office, including Rev. Jimmy Plummer, Mrs. Linnie Davis and Rev. Anica Howard, along with ancillary support from Rev. Roderick Belin, Dr. Vera Chatman, and Mr. Derrick Davis, truly made the difference. They are the “hardest working� support team in the AME Church. By the Grace of God,
Bishop Vashti Murphy McKenzie 22
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Closing Remarks I
t has been an absolute joy for Supervisor Stan and I to serve as the Episcopal leadership team of the 13th Episcopal District since 2004. The preachers and people enthusiastically embraced our ambitious vision to transform lives, churches and communities across the 13th Episcopal District. The preachers and people stepped boldly to tackle critical hindering issues and improved effectiveness of both mission and ministry.
Bishop and Supervisor
Accolades go to Presiding Elders, including Rev. Robert E. Keesee, Rev. Troy Merritt, Rev. Linda Thomas Martin, Rev. C. Robert Finch, Rev. Kenneth Hill, Rev. Ralph Johnson, and Rev. Troy Thomas. The vision was kept alive in our local congregations by the pastors and preachers. The people fanned the fires of faith and were beneficiaries of the resulting blessings. Luncheon Honoring Supervisor Stan McKenzie
Presiding Elders with Bishop McKenzie Host Presiding Elders,
Special Thanks goes to Team 13 for Host Pastors, their exceptional efforts in hosting the Supervisor McKenzie with Bishop McKenzie 49th Session on of the General Conference. We appreciate the leadership of the Host Pastors, the Rev. Roderick Belin, Rev. Michael Broadnax, Rev. Sidney Bryant, Rev. Dennis Lawson, Rev. W. Antoni Sinkfield, Rev. Edward Thompson and the wonderful Team 13 volunteers including all of the committee chairs and host of volunteers who put in significant time and effort toward the success of this General Conference. The home team in our Episcopal District Office, including Rev. Jimmy Plummer, Mrs. Linnie Davis and Rev. Anica Howard, along with ancillary support from Rev. Roderick Belin, Dr. Vera Chatman, and Mr. Derrick Davis, truly made the difference. They are the “hardest working� support team in the AME Church. By the Grace of God,
Bishop Vashti Murphy McKenzie 22
2008-2012 Thirteenth Episcopal District Quadrennial Report
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AME Quad basic:Quad Report readers 6/13/12 12:45 AM Page 24