The Christian Methodist Episcopal Church— Department of Christian Education Making disciples through "events that form and transform"
Volume MMX - Issue XI - November 2010
Points of Interest:
CYYAC12 Conference Theme Unveiled — Dr. Carmichael Crutchfield
Mission to the Eleventh Episcopal District Reflections from the One Church One School Partnership Conference
Inside this issue: Preface to Advent
2
21st Century Discipleship
4
National Council of Churches 5 Connectional Youth Vice Prez 6 Christian Edu Certification
7
One Church One School Conf
8
Mission to the 11th District
12
Annual Conf Lecture: TEACH
14
Young Adult Refreshing
18
NEVER Too Young...
20
Sunday School
21
Children & Thanksgiving
22
World AIDS Day
23
How does one determine a theme for the Connectional Youth and Young Adult Conference 2012 (CYYAC12)? Well, it all starts with listening. In this case, it is listening to our spiritual leaders, the College of Bishops. Specifically, we listen to the Quadrennial Theme as it was delivered through the 2010 Episcopal address by Bishop Thomas L. Brown, Sr., ―An Essential Church: Poised For 21st Century Ministry.‖
structing, assembling, and building an Essential Church. In order to do this, a great deal of planning, energy, resources, and time is required and so we announce the theme:
“Making it Essential.” We are meeting with young
The theme of the CYYAC12 takes the Quadrennial Theme and becomes active in creating, manufacturing, producing, con-
adults, youth, and Christian educators across the country via various forms of media to plan, discuss, and listen. In reality, our planning started at the end of the General Conference. We were given marching orders from the College of Bishops. These orders
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Sunday School Resource Available Online (www.thecmechurchced.org) CED provides notes from the Committee on Uniform Series that prepares associated Sunday School lesson outlines long in advance of their usage. Included in this Guide are thoughts that are reflected
in the Lesson Development Guide as published by Abingdon Press Nashville, Tennessee. Send an email to sundayschool@thecmechurchced.org to receive these notes electronically each week.
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Preface to Advent — Dr. Carmichael Crutchfield
Formation + Nurture + Leadership = Mission
The word Advent means "coming" or "arrival." The focus of the entire season is the celebration of the birth of Jesus the Christ in his First Advent, and the anticipation of the return of Christ the King in His Second Advent. Thus, Advent is far more than simply marking a 2,000 year old event in history. It is celebrating a truth about God, the revelation of God in Christ whereby all of creation might be reconciled to God. That is a process in which we now participate, and the consummation of which we anticipate. Scripture reading for Advent will reflect this emphasis on the Second Advent, including themes of accountability for faithfulness at His coming, judgment on sin, and the hope of eternal life.
from the purple of the Season to pink or rose for the third Sunday Advent candles reflected this lessening emphasis on penitence as attention turned more to celebration of the season.
birth and death. The nativity, the Incarnation, cannot be separated from the crucifixion. The purpose of Jesus’ coming into the world, of the "Word made flesh" and dwelling among us, is to reveal God and His grace to the world through Jesus’ life and teaching, but also through his suffering, death, and resurrection. To reflect this emphasis, originally Advent was a time of penitence and fasting, much as the Season of Lent and so shared the color of Lent.
Advent is marked by a spirit of expectation, of anticipation, of preparation, of longing. There is a yearning for deliverance from the evils of the world, first expressed by Israelite slaves in Egypt as they cried out from their bitter oppression. It is the cry of those who have experienced the tyranny of injustice in a world under the curse of sin, and yet who have hope of deliverance by a God who has heard the cries of oppressed slaves and brought deliverance!
In congregational worship, Historically, the primary the Advent wreath is the central sanctuary color of Advent is teaching symbol of the season, Purple. This is the color of penithe focal point for drawing the tence and fasting as well as the In the four weeks of Adcongregation into the beginning color of royalty to welcome the vent, the third Sunday came to of the story of redemption that Advent of the King. Purple is be a time of rejoicing that the will unfold throughout the still used in some traditions (for fasting was almost over (in church year. For this reason, example Roman Catholic). The some traditions it is called Gaumembers of the congregation purple of Advent is also the dete Sunday, from the Latin are often involved in lighting the color of suffering used during word for "rejoice"). The shift Lent and Holy Week. This points to an important connection between Jesus’ www.thecmechurchced.org/DailyWord.aspx
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Preface to Advent (Cont’d) Advent candles and reading the appropriate Scriptures each Sunday. While in some churches it is customary for this to be done by families, it can also be an especially good opportunity to demonstrate the unity of the entire community of Faith by including those without families, such as those never married, divorced, widowed, elderly who live by themselves, or college students away from home.
concert by the Connectional Departments of Christian Education of the African Methodist Episcopal, African Methodist Episcopal Zion and Christian Methodist Episcopal Churches. You can order the devotional online NOW for a unit cost of $2 or a quantity of 50 for a discounted price of $1.80 each.
I close by encouraging you to purchase the Advent devotional prepared in
Shipping will occur in November.
Formation + Nurture + Leadership
CYYAC12 Conference Theme Unveiled (Cont’d) have propelled us to give our 2011 Youth and Young Adult Week the same theme as our CYYAC12 Theme. CYYAW 2011 is a jumpstart to our meeting in Orlando July 2-6, 2012. Next, we consider energy and time. It is mental, emotional, and physical energy needed for the task. We are busy working on our 2011 Youth and Young Adult Week resource. This year, we are working with the leaders of our connectional children, youth and young adult
ministries to expand our offerings and are using a myriad of volunteers to assist us. We will be “Making It Essential” by producing a resource that will be downloadable for a fee of $15.00. The resource will be available by December 1, 2010. The CYYAC12 registration fee is proposed to be $150 (a more inclusive amount rather than having per event charges). We have not yet finalized this registration fee, but the in-
= Mission crease is necessary for a quality conference. Let me close by saying a little about what is involved in “Making It Essential.” We have been listening. You will see it in our Youth and Young Adult Week 2011 resource. You will see it at CYYAC12. It takes reaching, teaching, training and sending. Watch for it!!! It is coming. Please follow our progress on www.thecmechurchced.org.
CYYAC2012 featured on Youth Sunday School Book Cover. Special thanks to our partner the recently elected General Secretary Dr. Roderick D. Lewis and the Department of Publications.
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21st Century Discipleship: Commitment There is something overwhelming about experiencing a wedding ceremony. One writer has said the ceremony is a ―time when two very fragile and oftentimes wounded people, ever so limited and vulnerable www.thecmechurchced.org even and especially in their strength and radiance at that moment, promise to lay down their lives for one another until death separates them.‖ This radical self-giving and this promise of faithfulness is proFormation claimed with boldness, both in word and deed. This proclamation makes marriage the most + Nurture conspicuous assurance of God’s abiding presence. This time of + Leadership making such a commitment is altogether beautiful and mysti= Mission fying. In far too many instances the commitment which was so boldly and heartily made at the wedding altar is shattered by unforeseen circumstances. Sometimes the commitments are made anew, as if for the first time. And in some situations, the commitment is abandoned forever. And then there are those whose commitment to a spouse seemed to give their life its sole meaning and direction. For them, life was inconceivable without the other.
For the many Christians, the commitment to Christ’s call and to the ministry and mission of the church is that which gives life its meaning and direction. There are those who de-
21st Century Discipleship sire to remain ―steadfast, immovable, always excelling in the work of the Lord.‖ ―Our commitments are our ways of making good on life. They are ways of expressing, of naming what and whom we live for. In and through our commitments we make a way through life. We give shape to our living. Our commitments express our sense of the highest values we hold near and dear to us. And we do this in different forms of life, whether as single persons, spouses, parents, or as religious persons—ordained ministers and consecrated bishops.‖ Our commitments are like the shad-
ows which bond themselves to us when the unrelenting light of the sun beams down upon us at the shadow-making angle. Their constantly impinging presence reminds us of earlier promises and vows we have made. At this point in history, making good on life is no small thing. Oftentimes, we feel that we are left without a compass while on a journey. We are often unsure of the reliability of the guides in whom our forebearers placed their confidence. Trusted sources of leadership and guidance in church and society have all too often proven unreliable. The trust of some has been blatantly betrayed. Cherished persons and communities have been tained with scandals heretofore unimaginable. Much of what made the world secure and reliable has been torn asunder. Thus, commitment is indeed more complicated than in earlier generations. It is not the result of some moral weakness on the part of people in today’s world, but because those very things to which people once committed themselves have, apparently, come apart at the seams.
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National Council of Churches of Christ — Dr. Carmichael Crutchfield From time to time, I lift up the National Council of Churches of Christ in the USA. I do this primarily because I want to heighten the awareness about the ecumenical work of the Christian Methodist Episcopal Church. Bishop Ronald M. Cunningham serves as the C.M.E. Church’s ecumenical representative. He is an excellent ecumenical leader who now has more time in his retirement to spend to this vital ministry. Over the past eight years, a General Assembly has been held in various cities. It is a time for the member denominations to come together on common ground in an attempt to exhibit unity as God’s people moving together for the good of the Kingdom of God. During this eight-year period, Bishop Cunningham has asked me to serve on the General Assembly and the Governing Board which acts in the absence of the General Assembly. November 9-11, 2010, the General Assembly will gather in New Orleans for its normal annual meeting; however, this General Assembly will be unique. It will celebrate in a special way 100 years of Ecumenical engagement. It will be a gathering of communions
Formation + Nurture + Leadership = Mission from a wide spectrum of Christian expressions. The theme for this Centennial gathering is Witnesses of These Things: Ecumenical Engagement in a New Era. The theme is taken from Luke 24:48 which is the scriptural theme text for the 2010 Week of Prayer for Christian Unity—an additional reminder that there is one, multi-faceted ecumenical movement. In one sense, this event will be a ―celebration‖ of modern ecumenism, but also a time for
assessing the Church’s failure to receive God’s gift of unity, for anticipating new directions for ecumenism in the 21st Century, and for recommitting ourselves and our churches to the ecumenical calling. At the gathering, Bishop Cunningham will give the Department of Christian Education an opportunity to display works of the C.M.E. Church. We will have a table exhibiting some of the good news about the CME Church.
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Introducing the Youth Vice Presidents
Formation + Nurture + Leadership = Mission
The Connectional Youth Vice Presents are elected during each Connectional Youth Conference and serve for the next four years that follows. During the 2008 Connectional Youth Conference in Orlando, a cadre of youth leaders joined the Department of Christian Education serving their representative Episcopal Districts. Those elected were:
1st ~ A'Keylan Ware 3rd ~ Dion Broughton 4th ~ Joshana Thompson 5th ~ Donald Farmer 6th ~ Montavious Brunson 7th ~ Xavier Harrison 8th ~ Breigha Walker 10th ~ Claudina Harrison Recently, we hosted a WebConference with these leaders who shared valuable opinions relative to the 2008 Conference and ideas for the 2012 Conference. It is our hope to facilitate dialogue with the Vice Prez using existing social media networks such as Facebook, but also to host periodic “Speak with Your VP” teleconferences. Stay tuned for more.
C.M.E. Connectional Youth Vice-Presidents pictured with Dr. Marian Wright-Edelman during CYYAC08 in Orlando, Florida.
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It is “Certification Time” — Dr. Carmichael Crutchfield At the 2006 General Conference, I proposed, through a resolution, that we have a certification program for Christian Educators. The resolution passed, but has not been on anyone’s radar screen except for ours in the Department of Christian Education. It was one of those pieces of legislation that does not make it into the Book of Discipline. After the 2006 General Conference, I sought out advice on how to make this certification program happen. It was at that time that I began a Ph.D. program at Garrett Evangelical Theological Seminary, and upon graduation in May 2010, I really wrestled with how this newlyearned degree would enhance the Christian Methodist Episcopal Church. During a casual conversation with our Information Technology Consultant, Charles Coney, I discovered my answer: the Department of Christian Education is going to create a certification program by offering an online course. In January 2011, we will offer our first online course in Christian Education. It will be a six-week course consisting of two-hour sessions that will
include reading assignments. It is anticipated that certification will consist of at least six courses along with the completion of a project. The first course is based on a course I taught at Memphis Theological Seminary which I will adjust to fit within a sixweek period. As a practical theologian, I seek in the course to help Christian educators hone in on skills that facilitate a more in-depth understanding of Christian Education from an African American perspective. The cost of this first class is $50. Students will be expected to purchase the required textbooks and to complete important reading assignments and projects. I will be seeking other experts to help in the formation of other courses as we seek to develop a complete certification program. From the responses I received at the recent C.M.E.
Convocation in Louisville, I feel certain that we are ready to go forward. I am excited because others are excited. Stay tuned for further information and instructions.
Formation + Nurture + Leadership = Mission
eLearning is the use of technology to enable people to learn anytime and anywhere. eLearning includes training, the delivery of just-in-time information, and guidance from experts. We envision our learning program leveraging the power of technology to overcome the limitations of time, distance, and resources.
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One Church One School Reflections — Dr. Willa Ross
Formation + Nurture + Leadership = Mission
It was a beautiful picturesque October day as members from across the Connectional Church boarded the bus at the Hilton Garden Hotel in Jackson, Mississippi on Thursday, October 21, 2010. The destination was Jackson State University where volunteers from the Fourth Episcopal District along with other One Church One School participants to welcome more than 600 students along with faculty and chaperones from elementary, middle and high schools from the surrounding area for the Student Empowerment Seminar. After the posting of the flag by the color guard, the assembly joined together in singing the Star Bangled Banner and Lift Every Voice and Sing. Following an opening prayer by Reverend Kwesi Kamau and a selection from Chastain Middle School, we were greeted by a representative from the University and welcomed by Bishop Thomas L. Brown, Presiding Prelate of the 4th Episcopal District. Bishop Henry M. Williamson, Founder of One Church One School presented the speaker for the hour, Professor Lance Williams, Ph.D., assistant director of Northeastern Illinois University’s Jacob H. Car-
ruthers Center for Inner City Studies and assistant professor of inner city studies education. The Seminar facilitator, Professor Lance Williams once again held the students, faculty members, parents and OCOS participants captive as he articulated and demonstrated what he described as ―the battle being waged for the minds and spirits of our young people.― He went on to explain where this warfare was coming from and that it was a different kind of battle – the like of one never seen before. Professor Williams used several students from the audience to illustrate how over the last 100 years 10% of the population has gobbled up over 80% of the wealth which has resulted in the passing on of intergenerational poverty. He went on to talk about the origins of hip-hop in the South Bronx which was born out of a condition of a lapse in the economy in the early 60’s. Fed up with their conditions, young people
created an expression of music that allowed them to cope. Music became the political means for survival as youth began to organize against the wealthy 10%. He then proceeded to pull back the covers on the media and Rap Music Industry which is controlled by primarily three major corporations. The Music industry controlled by these corporations has managed to turn hip-hop music which began as a form of resistance to oppression and marginalization into a multimillion dollar industry producing negative entertainment such as Gangsta Rap which is destroying the minds, bodies and spirits of our young people. Dr. Lance went on to explain that rap music is the ―Number One cultural identifier of hip hop for young people.‖ But he also informed the audience that all rap music is not bad. He shared with the students several of the rap artists and their lyrics which represented negative and demeaning images of African American lifestyles. He then contrasted those artists with artists who have turned the same style of music into affirming and positive images for young people.
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One Church One School 15th Annual Partnership Conference in Jackson, Mississippi (October 2010)
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One Church One School Reflections (Cont’d) In addition to rap music and the influence that the music industry impose upon our young people, Dr. Lance shared that in the 1950’s the major influence on black youth was home, school, church, peers and TV. Frederick Douglas Today, the school and the church are no longer in the picture and home, mass media and peers represent those major influences. Our young
“It is easier to build strong children than to repair broken men [women].”
Formation + Nurture + Leadership = Mission
people spend more than 10 hours and 30 minutes a day engaged in what is called media multi-tasking. Seven hours and 38 minutes are packed into computers, TV, Music, audio, print and movies. They have become addicted to media entertainment. Dr. Lance challenged adults to have youth sign contracts to agree not participate in more than 2 hours per day in Media entertainment. Of course, this idea did not go over well with the students present. Surveys reveal that blacks send more than 10,000 text messages per month and only 25 minutes a day reading printed material. Dr. Williams compared this addiction to that of persons strung out on crack
cocaine. In closing, he told the young people that it was up to them to turn things around. He encouraged them to spend more of their time learning those things which reflect positive lifestyles, to focus on God, education, their bodies and their health. He told them ―It’s up to YOU.‖ The Empowerment Seminar concluded with closing remarks by Bishop Thomas L. Brown and prayer by Bishop Kenneth W. Carter. Box lunches were provided for students and their chaperones. Afterwards the OCOS participants returned to the Hilton Jackson Hotel to the Partnership Workshop where Episcopal District coordinators shared highlighted their experiences and accomplishments from OCOS partnership across the C.M.E. Church. The Lifetime Achievement Award Service was held later that evening at Lynch Street C.M.E. Church, Pastor Charles Holbrook. The service was very inspirational and spirit-filled as Senior Bishop Thomas L. Hoyt, Jr. presided. The service included uplifting songs from the Lynch Street Choir and liturgical dance presentations from ―Total Praise‖ Dance Ministry,
Lynch Street and Eden Chapel C.M.E. Church Drill Team. The service concluded with a powerful message by Bishop Thomas L. Brown entitled ―Ordinary People in the Service of an Extraordinary God‖ and the presentation of the Lifetime Achievement Awards. The opening plenary session was held on Friday, October 22, 2010 where Bishop James Walker, Presiding Bishop of the 9th Episcopal District challenged participants to ―Eat, Sleep and Drink Partnerships.‖ Bishop Walker expounded on the passage from Jeremiah 29:4-7 in challenging congregation to let go of the fear we have developed concerning our urban areas which has resulted in our disengagement and separation from the schools and the communities in the city. He challenged us to a ―Build Houses Commitment, Plant Gardens and Raise Families Partnership with Children and Schools.‖ He continued by saying ―God is looking for a Love, Eat, and Drink Partnership that is real.‖ He left us with the questions, “What
would God have to do with the schools and the city? What is God’s vision for the city? For the schools?”
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One Church One School Reflections (Cont’d) Bishop Walker challenged us to examine ourselves and to reflect on those black folks who fought and died for education so that we could be in some of these schools today which we are dying today in the cities. He stated, “sometimes I won-
der if God is in the corner moaning and groaning, wondering if and when somebody is gonna stop by here and see what is happening in our schools in the city.” His message provided hope for those pastors, Christian educators and OCOS coordinators who were struggling with how they could engage and motivate their local churches to build real ―Love, Eat, and Drink Partnerships.‖ We must be reminded that the partnership doesn’t originate with us, but it comes from God. As the Scripture reminds us, we are to build houses in all places, even in Babylon. Raise our families and plant our gardens in the city and above all we are to pray for the city. As in the Scripture, God is preaching to us and God is preaching to America. The Plenary Session was followed by the following workshops:
Church/School Partnerships by Mrs. Phedonia Johnson & the OCOS Episcopal District Directors
the year, Community Leaders, Educators, Religious Leaders, Advocates and Volunteers.
Health by Mrs. Barbara Fields Male Mentoring by Dr. Leo Pinkett African American History and Culture by Dr. Hilliard Lackey The Impact of Hip Hop on Adolescent Behavior by Professor Lance Williams The Conference concluded with the Award Recognition Luncheon which Bishop Paul A.G. Stewart, Sr. presided over. The Luncheon Speaker was Dr. Beverly Wade Hogan, President of Tougaloo College. Dr. Hogan charged participants ―to help prepare students for their functionality in the world,‖ and to recognize those opportunities such as One Church One School partnerships which help us to be a part of making a difference in the lives of our children. She reminded us that just as ―it takes a village to raise a child, it takes children to continue to raise the village.‖ The luncheon closed with the recognition of students of
Congratulations to the One Church One School 2010 Lifetime
Formation
Achievement Award
+ Nurture
Recipients
+ Leadership
Mrs. W. Jean Moore Dr. Leslie Burl McLemore
= Mission
Mr. Jewel Wagner
“Children should be placed in a basket of hope, placed in the river of life before someone else catches them for destruction.” Bishop Thomas L. Brown, Sr.
Memories from the Mission to the Eleventh Episcopal District Compliments of Rev. DeWayne GoLightly (October 2010)
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Memories from the Mission to the Eleventh Episcopal District Compliments of Rev. DeWayne GoLightly (October 2010)
The Christian Methodist Episcopal Church—Department of Christian Education
An “Essential
Annual Conference Lecture: TEACH — Bishop Thomas L. Brown, Sr. selves to the apostles’ teaching…‖ Long before Luke’s writ-
Church”: Poised For
ings, the Old Testament highlighted the vital importance of teaching for the people of God. In Deuteronomy 6:6-7, teaching is set forth as the major priority of the would be people of God. The writer admonished the people of Israel to a ministry of teaching in the following words:
21st Century Ministry Acts 2:42-47 Annual Conference Lectures
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Overview – These lectures are offered as a continuation of my exposition of the Episcopal Address given in July, 2010 at the 37th Session of the General Conference, CME Church. This second lecture focuses on the second component of the quadrennial theme: ―Poised for 21st Century Ministry.‖ These components are teaching (discipleship) and training (leadership development). Teaching comes from the Greek word didache (―a teaching‖). Over the years, teaching has become one of those hallowed tasks of the Christian church. Jesus was often called Rabbi or teacher by His disciples and other earthly companions. Acts 2:42 informs us that teaching and instruction were essential to and for the early church. Luke wrote Acts 2:42— ―And they devoted them-
―And these words which I command you this day shall be upon your heart; and you shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, and when you walk by the way, and when you lie down, and when you rise.‖ In other words, teaching is a moral as well as a political engagement. ―It is toward the building of the body politic of the Christ by continually striving to make that body be, in form and polity, the kind of organism where power is never power over or power against, but power used with and in favor of and for one another and the wider society.‖ Teaching was a form of the Torah—a means for offering ―direction, instruction, information, guidance on the road.‖ Teaching, in the C.M.E. Church, covers a wide range of
forms: (a) individual teachers, corporate gatherings to include worship and preaching, directors of Christian Education and directors of music. When considering the teaching ministry of the C.M.E. Church, we need to pose four questions: Who should teach in the Church? What is to be taught? What are the methods to be used in our teaching ministry? Why must we teach?
RTTS Who should teach? Exodus 18:21—persons who ―fear God, trustworthy men [and women] who hate dishonest gain…;‖ Acts 6:3—those who ―are known to be full of the Spirit and wisdom.‖ Warning against false teachers as 1 Timothy 1:3-7 says teachers need to be persons of ―a pure heart, a good conscience, and sincere faith;‖ 1 Timothy 6:3f says, ―If anyone teaches false doctrines and does not agree to
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Annual Conference Lecture: TEACH (Cont’d) the sound instruction of our Lord Jesus Christ and to godly teaching…‖ Further warning in James 5:1, ―Not many of you should presume to be teachers, my brothers [and sisters], because you know that we who teach will be judged more strictly.‖ Special attention should be given to selecting who will teach in our churches. The Bible suggests that teaching is a gift from God and not everyone is given this gift. Thus, great care and prayer should be given to selecting persons who bear a testimony about their personal relationship with Jesus Christ and who possess the gifts, passion, and commitment to effectively teach. (a) Pastors must teach— Ephesians 4:11c—‖and some to be pastors and teachers…‖ (b) Key officers should teach— Persons who have come to know the faith and are mature in the practice of the faith. (c) All members must be urged and encouraged to be come Bible students.
RTTS
Who is to be taught? The content of our teaching is very significant. Our imperative to the church is to ―teach less, not more.‖ —Exodus 18:20 ―Teach them the decrees and laws, and show them the way to live and the duties they are to perform.‖ Titus 2:1f says, ―You must teach what is in accord with sound doctrine…‖ A. Teach—‖All scripture is inspired by God and is useful or teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, so that everyone who belongs to God may be proficient, equipped for every good work‖ (2 Timothy 3:16, 17). B. God’s creation of human beings—‖Image of God‖ and the Nature of the Fall C. God’s risk-taking in Jesus Christ for the salvation of the world—the birth, death, resurrection, ascension, and return of Jesus Christ. Teach about God’s salvation and liberation of the world: 1. Prevenient Grace—‖God
comes to us first‖ and stirs us to repentance—Porch religion. Ex: Genesis 28:10-17—God’s encounter with Jacob running from Esau. God the Father!!! 2. Justifying Grace— (Restoration and reconciliation) —Trusting God’s restoration of our relationship to Him through Jesus Christ—Doorway Religion—(Luke 19:1-10)—Jesus calls Zacchaeus. God the Son!!! 3. Sanctifying Grace— (Purifying)—Sanctification produces both ―inward and outward holiness.‖ Brings us into a more perfect love of God and others. It is grace with creates in us a holiness of heart and social relations. Philippians 3:12—‖Not that I have already obtained this or am already perfect, but I press on to make it my own, because Christ Jesus has made me his own‖—House religion.—Acts 2:1-14—The Holy Spirit!!! 4. The primary relationship between Word (Jesus Christ) and Spirit (Holy Spirit). 1 Thessalonians 1:5—‖Our message of the gospel came to you not in word only, but also in power and in the Holy Spirit and with full conviction;‖ (a) The Word—‖what God does for us by grace;‖ (b)
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Annual Conference Lecture: TEACH (Cont’d)
Formation + Nurture + Leadership = Mission
Holy Spirit). 1 Thessalonians 1:5—‖Our message of the gospel came to you not in word only, but also in power and in the Holy Spirit and with full conviction;‖ (a) The Word—‖what God does for us by grace;‖ (b) Holy Spirit—‖What God does in us by grace.‖ Warning—Danger of worshipping the Bible versus Jesus Christ!
Grace‖ as well as small group nurture and learning. Acts 2:42f—‖They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers...Day by day, as they spent much time together in the temple, they broke bread at home and at their food with glad and generous harts.‖
5. The vital necessity of the Fellowship of saints (Community—Koinonia). Acts 2:42 following, Luke reports that they ―devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to the fellowship,…‖ Christianity is a relationship faith. Wesley would say that Christianity ―is not so much a religion as it is a relationship. Christian discipleship begins with God’s offer of relationship to us all, but it is extended by means of fellowship within the community of faith.‖
7. The Necessity of ―Enthused Disciples‖ (Members) who are partnership with Jesus Christ in fulfilling God’s mission for the church in the world. 2 Corinthians 4:7—‖We have this treasure in earthen vessels, so that it may be made clear that this extraordinary power belongs to God and does not come from us.‖ ―Enthused; literally means to be properly filled with God. A disciple is a learner who subjects himself or herself to the authority of a mentor and the structures of learning.‖ Danger among churchgoers is found in the words of 2 Timothy 3:5— ‖holding to the outward form of godliness but denying its power…‖
6. The Fellowship—Both Personal and Social: ―As in one body we have many members, and not all the members have the same function, so we, who are many, are one body in Christ, and individually we are members of one another.‖ (Roman 12:4-5) The importance of ―The General Rules‖ and ―The Means of
8. The interrelationship between Faith and Works—The Book of James Chapter 2:14-26 is a classic Biblical testament to the essential relationship between
faith and works (―So faith by itself, if it has not works, is dead‖—James 2:17). In other words, our faith in God’s actions is creation, in redemption and liberation (Jesus Christ), and in empowering of us to be effective witnesses (Holy Spirit) must reveal itself in our deeds as believers. Indeed, our good deeds as believers mirror our faith in God. 9. Christian Stewardship— Essentially the Bible and our Christian teachings instruct us that all that we are and possess are gifts from God to be gratefully managed with the understanding that God does and will hold us accountable for how we care for and dispense of these our gifts. John Wesley taught the Methodist to be (a) ―Gain all you can‖ (b) ―Save all you can‖ (c) ―Give all you can.‖
RTTS What are the methods to be used in our teaching ministry? Jesus was a rabbi—a teacher who used various methods to
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Annual Conference Lecture: TEACH (Cont’d) communicate His message and mission: (a) parables (b) example or demonstrations (c) dialogue (d) object lessons, etc. Our methods will vary depending on the ages and circumstances of those whom we wish to teach.
RTTS Why must we teach? A. We must contend for the faith that was once for all entrusted to the saints (Jude 1:3) because ―certain intruders,‖ false teachers and teachings have come among us. B. We are to help each grow towards perfection— Hebrews 6:1-2—‖Therefore
let us go on toward perfection, leaving behind the basic teaching about Christ, and not laying again the foundation: repentance from dead works and faith toward God, instruction about baptisms, laying on of hands, resurrection of the dead, and eternal judgment.‖ C. We are to prepare each
other for the work we are called and gifted for— Ephesians 4:12-13—‖to prepare God’s people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ.‖ Ephesians 4:1416—We will not be infants, etc. D. To become holy people—1 Timothy 7:10—To train ourselves in ―godliness‖ E. To present ourselves before God as people who have no need to be ashamed—2 Timothy 2:15— ‖Study to show thyself approved unto God, a workman [woman] that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.‖ F. The Holy Scriptures are essentially love letters from God telling us of God’s: (1) Unconditional love for us; (2) Guidance of us along life’s pathways; (3) Presence with us when everything and everybody appear to be against us;
(4) Power to make us overcomers rather than victims of life’s circumstances; (5) Salvation for sinners like us the world over; (6) Mercy for all sorts of conditions among humankind; (7) Psalm 119:105—‖Your word is a lamp to my feet, and a light for my path.‖
Formation + Nurture + Leadership = Mission
The above article along with many other resources written by Bishop Thomas L. Brown are available on the Fourth Episcopal District’s website: www.4thdistrictcme.org using the link ―Training Material.
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Young Adult Refreshing: “Finding Your Inner Super Hero” ―God’s time for revival is the very darkest hour, when everything seems hopeless. It is always the Lord’s way to go to the very worst cases to manifest His glory,‖ Andrew Gih.
Formation + Nurture + Leadership = Mission
In 2006, St John C.M.E. Church’s Young Adult Ministry had a vision and a desire to not only affect their church, but the community around them. They pondered their purpose and how they could get there. They concluded that they knew they wanted a Revival, but not just a Revival. They desired to be revived for more than a moment, a day, or an hour. They wanted the residue of the Revival to carry on in the days to come, and they wanted to be… Refreshed. After much thought, prayer, and direction from Pastor Anthony Walker ―Refreshing: A Step Beyond A Revival‖ was born. St John C.M.E. is undergoing a spiritual transformation, through fasting, praying, and praising God for what He has done, is doing, and will manifest. Pastor Walker has charged all to win 400 souls. In witnessing the spiritual change, the theme selected for the 2010 Young Adult Refreshing held on October 18 and 19,
St. John Young Adult Ministry & Friends was ―Finding Your Inner Super Hero.‖ The text was I John 4:4. The Young Adult Ministry as a whole declared, ―they were tired of being defeated,‖ ―they were tired of living day by day in fear,‖ they were ready to overcome. Those that attended ―Refreshing‖ were blessed with several inspirational messages through song from the SJCME Young Adults & Friends Praise Team, SJCME Mass Choir to Gospel Music Workshop of America Recording Artist, ―Minister James Reed III and Persuaded by God.‖ ―Refreshing‖ has grown each year and reaches people of all ages. This year the Ministry extended its reach to students at surrounding Colleges and
Universities, especially Oklahoma’s own HBCU Langston University. Keria Coleman of Texas exclaimed, ―I loved everything!‖ The speakers were Associate Ministers of St. John C.M.E. Church, Minister Larissa Carter and Minister James Johnson. Minister Carter dynamically derived her text from Genesis 3 and encouraged all through an understanding that we have the ultimate Super Hero. We have been given everything we need to defeat the enemy. We are ordinary humans with supernatural powers, and because of Christ, everything we need to overcome, is already inside of us.‖ Andrea Walker stated, ―The refreshing is just what it said it was, very refreshing. I feel blessed that God chose me to
The Christian Methodist Episcopal Church—Department of Christian Education
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Young Adult Refreshing: “Finding Your Inner Super Hero” (Cont’d)
The ―After Party‖—Minister James Reed III & Persuaded by God be able to attend.‖
hinder us.
Minister Johnson expounded on the magnificent word provided in Ephesians 6. He gave a vivid depiction of Superman and his story from childhood to a Super Hero. It was awesome to witness the understanding of the change he makes from Clark Kent to Superman. No one has ever witnessed that change and its powerful correlation to our transition in faith through the understanding of who we are in Christ. It was a depiction of being in a personal relationship with our Super Hero. He continued to share that we have the anointing of God, the residue of Christ on the inside of us, and if we operate in that anointing nothing will be able to stop or
Armisha Walker-Harrison, Oklahoma Region’s Director of Young Adult Ministry expressed that it was ―A revitalizing, rejuvenating, renewing experience. There is nothing like stepping out of self and letting God use you, by pressing forward in His anointing. The ―Refreshing‖ experience keeps going higher each year. I’m thankful I know the original Superman!‖ ―Refreshing‖ concluded Tuesday night with a refreshment social A.K.A. "The After Party‖ featuring great food, fun and the melodious sounds of ―Minister James Reed III and Persuaded by God.‖ Brandon Jordan of Mississippi said, ―The sermon was great and I loved the after party.‖ St John C.M.E.
Church is embracing the harvest, fasting, and praying on Prayer, Power, and Praise. The Harvest has yielded many blessings and the Young Adult Ministry is truly anticipating next year’s ―Refreshing‖ and what it will bring. They are encouraged from this ―Refreshing‖ to stay faithful in everything, understanding they already have the anointing, they have to continue to walk in His authority, and He will take them higher in Him. Seeking to Serve More Each Day, SJCME Church Young Adult Ministry Members Shemika Williams, President St John C.M.E. Church Young Adult Ministry
Formation + Nurture + Leadership = Mission
Kristi Pendleton Harrison, Advisor St John C.M.E. Church Young Adult Ministry Rev. Anthony L. Walker, Pastor, St John C.M.E. Church Bishop James B. Walker, Presiding Prelate, Ninth Episcopal District
May 26 - 29, 2011
The Christian Methodist Episcopal Church—Department of Christian Education
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NEVER Too Young to Make a Difference — Paige Perry October was Breast Cancer Awareness Month. According to the American Cancer Society, if breast
cancer is caught before it reaches the lymph nodes, the fiveyear survival rate is well over 90 percent. Therefore, timing is everything.
Formation + Nurture + Leadership = Mission
The Sigma Sigma Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. at Clayton State University in Morrow, Ga. marked its fifth year of participating in the Making Strides against Breast Cancer 5K walk on Saturday, October 23rd in Atlanta, Ga. Team Sigma Sigma consisted of over 25 walkers and raised over $500 in support of research sponsored by the American Cancer Society. Proceeds from the Annual Fundraiser totaled $660,919.90 to help save lives. Chapter Charter member and C.M.E. Connectional Young Adult Ministry Chief of Staff Paige Perry, described the experience as, ―breathtaking to see many people of all races, origins and genders coming together to support one cause. I walked to support and honor
CYA Paige Perry
ALL CANCER patients. My oldest brother was diagnosed with multiple myeloma in 2005 and has undergone a bone marrow transplant. His cancer went into remission only to return two years ago. On October 6, 2010, my co-worker’s 17 year old daughter died after a seven month battle with Liver Cancer. As a result of my employment with the Federal Government, I was afforded the opportunity to donate Annual Leave Hours to this co-worker as she cared for her sick child.‖
―I challenge each young
adult in the Christian Methodist Episcopal Church to become active in your community and make a difference.‖
The American Cancer Society (ACS) recommends breast selfexams for women starting in their 20s, with yearly mammograms after the age of 40. More comprehensive clinical breast exams should be part of a breast health regimen every three years for women in the 20s and 30s and every year for women 40 and older. Some women may need more frequent testing at an earlier age because of genetic or family risk factors, so the ACS suggests women talk with their doctors to determine the breast cancer screening routine that's right for them.
The Christian Methodist Episcopal Church—Department of Christian Education
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Sunday School: Teaching & Learning — Dr. Carmichael Crutchfield
Why are you teaching Sunday school? Perhaps you were volunteered by someone and even arm-twisted. Maybe you volunteered because you saw a need in your local church. Perhaps you were following a family member who had taught Sunday school.
No matter how you have come to the role of teaching in the church, it is important to discern God’s calling for our lives for this vital ministry. God gives us all grace through our baptism. When one teaches it is a response of gratitude for that grace and we offer to God a measure of ourselves.
Each Sunday teachers are called to at least three challenges. First, teaching is a craft. Excellent teachers show their faithfulness by preparing the lessons, coming early to set up classrooms and give their best to their students. But excellent teachers are also motivated to acquire tools, skills and techniques of their craft. They are ready to attend workshops and seminars where they learn to sharpen their skills. A sign of an effective Sunday school is motivated teachers who not only teach but give great attention to learning.
Second, teaching is an art. Through the power of the Holy Spirit students gain new visions and insights. It is all in the power of the scriptures that God speaks through the teacher’s leadership. A sign of an effective Sunday school is when new vision and insights
are being expressed and seen in the local church. Teaching is indeed an art.
Third, teaching is being. Simply put. teachers must be authentic. Teachers must be the ―real deal.‖ Part of authenticity is caring. One goal in each Sunday school lesson is to reach the affective (emotional) of capacity of the learner. Authentic teachers are just aware of this goal as they are of the cognizant or knowledge goal. If teachers are not sensitive to students’ needs, they will miss out on one of the goals of the lesson. Someone wisely said that the number one ingredient for a successful Sunday school is a teacher who cares.
Formation + Nurture + Leadership = Mission
The Christian Methodist Episcopal Church—Department of Christian Education
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Preparing Our Children to be Thankful — Lisa Butler We're a few weeks out from Thanksgiving and so there is really no better time than the present to share creative ideas of fun ways to celebrate the holidays with the little people in our lives. This is a perfect time to teach our children what thankful means.
latest and greatest item - or feeling guilty when they can't. With the currents of
materialism and entitlement flowing so strong, how do we raise kids who are simply thankful?
T = Teach Train up a child Proverbs 22:6
H = Hold fast to good and right Formation + Nurture + Leadership = Mission
1 Thessalonians 5:24
A = Ask God for help
James 1:5
-6
N = Be nice to all James 3:2 K = Keep God's commandment 1 John 2: 3,4,6
F= Fight to a faithful fight 1 Tim. 6:12
U = Understanding what God wants from me Ephesians 5:12
L = Live the way God has for me Titus 2:12
In addition, we offer to you the book, Growing Grateful
Kids: Teaching Them to Appreciate an Extraordinary God in Ordinary Places (Hearts at Home Books). Even when economic times are tight, our children enjoy an abundance of material possessions. Yet, amidst all this wealth, discontentment and competition seem to be on the rise. Instead of teaching children virtues such as gratefulness and patience, many parents are bending over backwards to get their children the
With simple language, interesting anecdotes, and biblical applications, Susie Larson helps readers understand that although teaching perspective and gratitude to our children is critical, it is not difficult. We know that Jesus took the out to teach the children and so should we.
The Christian Methodist Episcopal Church—Department of Christian Education
World AIDS Day, December 1st, is an opportunity to bring together existing HIV/ AIDS projects and programs and to encourage the creation of new HIV/AIDS awareness and prevention programs. The goal is to motivate individuals, communities and states to become involved in the issues surrounding HIV/AIDS. World AIDS Day can be observed in many ways. To help coordinate events in your community, refer to the following checklist. Research HIV/AIDS Statistics. Check with your state health department for HIV/AIDS statistics in your area to determine how HIV/AIDS affects you and your community. Develop Partnerships. Establish or join partnerships with individuals and organizations interested in planning World AIDS Day activities in your community. These might include Red Cross chapters, AIDS advocacy groups, places
of worship, schools, libraries, civic associations, hospitals, clinics, or youth groups. Call your local and state health and education departments for leads. Select an Activity. Choose an activity or program that will appeal to your target audience and one that will achieve your objectives. Create a Planning Checklist. Create a timeline so you will remain organized and will not miss deadlines. Delegate specific activities and responsibilities when possible. Make a schedule, establish a budget, identify organizations who will help you or co-sponsor with you. Choose a location, estimate the number who will attend, plan and prepare materials you will distribute, and plan advertising strategies. Invite Participation. Invite members of your community, especially those groups you have targeted. Also con-
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World AIDS Day is celebrated on December 1 each year around the world. It has become one of the most recognized international health days and a key opportunity to raise awareness, commemorate those who have passed on, and celebrate victories such as increased access to sider inviting a wider audience treatment and prevention serto promote awareness of HIV/ vices. AIDS issues. Often invitations themselves help raise awareness or encourage others to become involved.
Publicize Your Event. Use the media to get the word out. Follow up with phone calls to targeted groups.
UNAIDS took the lead on World AIDS Day campaigning from its creation until 2004. From 2004 onwards the World AIDS Campaign's Global Steering Committee began selecting a theme for World AIDS Day in consultation with civil society, organisations and government agencies involved in the AIDS response.
Notify the Media. Getting your messages out through television, radio, and newspaper is a highly effective way of reaching your target Themes run for one or two years audience.
Informed by those most affected by HIV, the World AIDS Campaign’s goal is to ensure that governments and policy makers meet the HIV targets they set, the commitments they made, and mobilize the necessary resources for a world where people do not die of AIDS and opportunistic infections like TB.
and are not just specific to World AIDS Day. Campaigning slogans such as 'Stop AIDS. Keep the Promise' have been used year round to hold governments accountable for their HIV and AIDS related commitments.
The Christian Methodist Episcopal Church - Department of Christian Education Christian Methodist Episcopal Church Department of Christian Education P. O. Box 16507 Memphis, TN 38186-6507
Telephone: (901) 345-4109 Fax: (901) 261-3289 E-mail: news@thecmechurchced.org
We are of the belief that the ultimate essence of "Doing A New Thing" in Christian Education is discipleship. We strongly believe that an emphasis on discipleship will lead to formation, nurture, leadership, and mission taking place in our local, district, regional, national, and world wide communities. We believe that the witness of the love of Jesus Christ will be spread in such a way that lives will be saved, educated, and liberated. There are four aspects of understanding of what is involved in "Doing A New Thing" in Christian Education. Namely, they are formation, nurture, leadership, and mission. When the first three aspects are attended to, mission will be the result.
Make disciples through "events that form and transform"
Dr. Carmichael Crutchfield, General Secretary Dr. Willa Ross, Executive Assistant Christian Methodist Episcopal Church Department of Christian Education
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Connectional Youth & Young Adult Conferences
July 2 - 6, 2012 Rosen Shingle Creek 9939 Universal Boulevard Orlando, Florida 32819