2019 IN REVIEW: MAY - DECEMBER
CAPITAL DISTRICT CONFERENCE THE CAPITAL CALL
VOLUME NO. XII
CHURCH SCHOOL CONVENTION SUPER 4CHRIST
CAPITAL DISTRICT GOSPEL CHOIR SINGING PRAISES
THE CAPITAL CONNECTION
A Glorious Crusade & A New Decade Elder’s Vision: We began a new chapter in the Capital District on May 4th, as Bishop James Levert Davis appointed the former Pastor of Mount Olive, Annapolis, the new Presiding Elder. Rev. Johnny R. Calhoun became the successor of our beloved Presiding Elder, Rev. Dr. Louis Charles Harvey. Elder Calhoun received his appointment at the close of the Western North Carolina Annual Conference. Interestingly, the same conference where he was ordained an Itinerant Elder by Bishop John Hurst Adams and given his first charge - Adams Metropolitan,
To provide visionary leadership in advancing the Kingdom of GOD in the Capital District
1
2019 IN REVIEW: MAY - DECEMBER Charlotte (1986). He introduced himself to the Capital District and held his initial planning meeting at Reid Temple on May 16th at 6pm. After expressing greetings and thanksgiving, a powerpoint presentation was given to introduce himself and his family. Elder Calhoun afterwards laid out his vision for the Capital District.
VOLUME NO. XII
Are we the Capital Because we lead or Do we lead because We’re the Capital?
He outlined that it does matter whether capital is spelled with an O or an A. When spelled with an O, Capitol represents a building. Elder Calhoun pointed out the definitions of capital in Merriam’s Dictionary:
capital1 | ˈkapədl |noun •the most important city or town of a country or region, usually its seat of government and administrative center. •a valuable resource of a particular kind: there is insufficient investment in human capital •Adjective excellent: he's a really capital fellow Lastly, he presented to the District the component at the top of a column that holds up the entablature and bears the weight of the top of the structure.
CAPITAL CONCERNS were outlined by the Presiding Elder to identify areas where the Capital Districts excellence would be measured and expressed. They are outlined on pages in the appendix,
Being the Capital District We all know indeed That we’ll earnestly invest In all those who lead To get a capital harvest We’ll sow leadership seed Trusting in GOD To supply all of our need.
2
2019 IN REVIEW: MAY - DECEMBER
VOLUME NO. XII
The Capital District 2019 Church School Convention
The 2019 Capital District Conference was held again at the Frederick Community College. It was a huge success and over 400 persons were in attendance. The Church School Convention was organized by a team of Capital District Christian Education leaders, who altogether comprised over 150 years in experience. Led by Superintendent Francine Sutton, the Convention was organized with a very short fuse. With less than two months to plan and execute, they came working together as a fine tuned, Spirit led team, who leaned upon the LORD to do a great work. Giving GOD all of the glory, they did an unbelievable job. We thank GOD for all of the committee chairs, teachers, volunteers and supporters, without which it could never have been executed on such a capital level. Also, we thank GOD for all of the pastors whose support and assistance played such a critical role.
Joy Night was a wonderful and amazing presentation of our very talented and gifted youth and young adults. They were in charge and glorified GOD, as they presided with poise. Dancing, singing, rapping and reciting poetry. The Presiding Elder rendered some original spoken word. It was a night to remember and one to look forward to next year. 3
2019 IN REVIEW: MAY - DECEMBER
VOLUME NO. XII
One of the highlights of Joy Night was the presentation of the Church School of the Year Award. It was presented to Dickerson and received by the Pastor Meredith & First Lady Hudson.


4
2019 IN REVIEW: MAY - DECEMBER
VOLUME NO. XII
The Works You’ve Done Speak For You!
5
2019 IN REVIEW: MAY - DECEMBER
VOLUME NO. XII
6
2019 IN REVIEW: MAY - DECEMBER
VOLUME NO. XII
On July 15th at 1:43pm, with the signature of our Bishop, his vision of acquiring property to offset the burden of General Budget upon the Second Episcopal District became a reality. As a result of the faithful ERT donations from our churches, we acquired our first property - The Industrial Bank Building. Scores of churches will soon receive budget relief. Stay tuned for our next acquisition. 7
2019 IN REVIEW: MAY - DECEMBER
VOLUME NO. XII
Washington Conference clergy gathered together October 12th at Allen Chapel, DC to participate in the first Synergy
Meeting with Bishop Davis.
All ordained clergy were invited to participate in an interactive dialogue. The Bishop enabled everyone in attendance to ask questions and seek clarification of his requests and directives and also comment on matters that they wanted him to respond to. The Bishop also shared a variety of concerns and issues. A second Synergy Meeting will take place on February 29th. 8
2019 IN REVIEW: MAY - DECEMBER
VOLUME NO. XII
The 2019 Capital District
Conference was organized around a very straight forward aim. To firstly glorify GOD beyond measure. Secondly, bless everyone in attendance beyond all expectations and then to be the best District Conference ever held any where in the world. In a matter of approximately three months a very dedicated and hard working planning committee was established and met bi-weekly to organize and implement Presiding Elder Calhoun’s first District Conference. Turner Memorial was selected to host and under Pastor Kearney’s leadership, they provided an unparalleled level of hospitality and coordination. The District Conference opened with a Pastors’ Forum and under the direction of Rev. Collin Figurora, a Strength Based Leadership Initiative was launched. Reviewing an assessment that was completed by each pastor in advance, Rev. Figuerora presented how each strength could be used in forming more effective teams, while learning to intentionally name, claim and aim them in leading others. Presiding Elder Calhoun selected, The Call, The Calling & The Called, as the theme for the conference. Several scriptures were used, including: Exodus 3:4-5; Philippians 3:14; -2 Thessalonians 1:11; 2 Timothy 1:9 and 2 Peter 1:10 During the conference three Pastors taught on each of the three components of the theme. Rev. Mark Whitlock Reid Temple, Rev. Dr. William Campbell - Union Bethel Brandywine and Rev. Jonathan Davis - St. Mark respectively. A very dynamic and Spirit filled line up of preachers were scheduled and each were used mightily to bring forth the WORD and illumine the conference theme. 9
2019 IN REVIEW: MAY - DECEMBER
VOLUME NO. XII
The Opening Worship Service was Thursday, November 14th at 7:30pm. The Capital District Gospel Choir, under the direction of Jarell Pridgen, was debuted. They sang to the glory of GOD and was used mightily by the Holy Spirit. The house was set on fire and the LORD was greatly magnified.
10
2019 IN REVIEW: MAY - DECEMBER
VOLUME NO. XII
11
2019 IN REVIEW: MAY - DECEMBER
VOLUME NO. XII
Ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost shall come upon you …
In the midst of the Opening Worship Service, a robe was presented to the Presiding Elder by the Pastors of the Capital District
12
2019 IN REVIEW: MAY - DECEMBER
VOLUME NO. XII
13
2019 IN REVIEW: MAY - DECEMBER
VOLUME NO. XII
The Host Church honored First Lady Rev. Patricia Calhoun with an expression of kindness and appreciation. Their thoughtfulness and five star hospitality was seen throughout the conference and set a very high bar for future conferences.
Rev. Whitlock presented the Presiding Elder who introduced Bishop John Bryant 14
2019 IN REVIEW: MAY - DECEMBER
VOLUME NO. XII
Retired Bishop John Richard Bryant was the Opening Worship Service Preacher. He challenged us and asked us, “Do You Know Who You Are?”
15
2019 IN REVIEW: MAY - DECEMBER
VOLUME NO. XII
Proclamation Invitation Impartations Benediction
16
2019 IN REVIEW: MAY - DECEMBER
VOLUME NO. XII
CAPITAL CONCERN Closeness to Christ Rev. Anita Gould, Facilitator
17
2019 IN REVIEW: MAY - DECEMBER
VOLUME NO. XII
18
2019 IN REVIEW: MAY - DECEMBER
VOLUME NO. XII
19
2019 IN REVIEW: MAY - DECEMBER
VOLUME NO. XII


CAPITAL CONCERN
Challenging Our Children Rev. Karen Myers, Facilitator
20
2019 IN REVIEW: MAY - DECEMBER
VOLUME NO. XII
CAPITAL CONCERN Climate Change - Rev. Dr. Gerald Folsom, Facilitator
21
2019 IN REVIEW: MAY - DECEMBER
VOLUME NO. XII
22
2019 IN REVIEW: MAY - DECEMBER
VOLUME NO. XII
CAPITAL CONCERN Collegial Connection Rev. Derrick Brown, Facilitator
23
2019 IN REVIEW: MAY - DECEMBER
VOLUME NO. XII
I SING BECAUSE I’M HAPPY!
BLESS THE LORD, O MY SOUL & ALL THAT IS WITHIN ME, BLESS HIS HOLY NAME!
IF IT HAD NOT BEEN FOR THE LORD ON MY SIDE, WHERE WOULD I BE
They that go down to the sea in ships, that do business in great waters. These see the works of the LORD & His wonders in the deep Let them shout for joy and be glad, who favor my righteous cause. Let them say continually, let the LORD be magnified. Who hath pleasure in the prosperity of His servants. 24
Psalm 107:23-24; Psalm 35:27
2019 IN REVIEW: MAY - DECEMBER
VOLUME NO. XII
Video Conference Presentation Rev. Phyllis Linness, Presenter First AME Church, Manassas, VA
25
2019 IN REVIEW: MAY - DECEMBER
VOLUME NO. XII
Pastors’ Luncheon A Special Pastor's only luncheon was held at the University of Maryland Golf Course & Club House. Turner Memorial provided a bus so that the pastors could all travel together. House Speaker Adrienne Jones was the guest speaker. She shared info regarding an up and coming AME Day that is being organized. Also, information was provided on MD State Bond Bills.
Industrial Bank Chairman, Rev. Jonathan Weaver and Speaker Jones were both honored and given plagues for their community leadership and support.
26
2019 IN REVIEW: MAY - DECEMBER
VOLUME NO. XII
The Capital Concern (CC) groups reconvened after lunch. After brainstorming in the morning and reporting out, they returned to their breakout sessions to prioritize the ideas generated and identified three to work on as a District. One short term (6 months), near term (12 months) and long term (3 years). Each of the CC Groups presented their three ideas in the afternoon session. The plan is for each facilitator and CC Core group to provide to the Presiding Elder in January, the goals and objectives for each of the three ideas. A video conference will be held in February to present them to the larger group. In April, each facilitator and core group will provide to the Elder an action plan and budget for their ideas. The larger group will be invited to attend the Church School Convention and receive a presentation of the same. The action plans will be reviewed and updated semi-annually at District Conferences and Church School Conventions, in order to track our progress and make necessary adjustments to improve and maximize our performance. See Appendix for more information.
27
2019 IN REVIEW: MAY - DECEMBER
VOLUME NO. XII
Friday Night Worship Service THE CALL, THE CALLING & THE CALLED
28
2019 IN REVIEW: MAY - DECEMBER
VOLUME NO. XII
29
2019 IN REVIEW: MAY - DECEMBER
VOLUME NO. XII
30
2019 IN REVIEW: MAY - DECEMBER
THE CALL
Rev. Karen Myers Gaines Chapel
VOLUME NO. XII
THE CALLING Rev. Dr. Valdes Snipes Mt. Zion, Laurel
THE CALLED
Rev. Etoria Goggins First, Manassas 31
2019 IN REVIEW: MAY - DECEMBER
VOLUME NO. XII
32
2019 IN REVIEW: MAY - DECEMBER
VOLUME NO. XII
33
2019 IN REVIEW: MAY - DECEMBER
VOLUME NO. XII
34
2019 IN REVIEW: MAY - DECEMBER
VOLUME NO. XII
PRAISE GOD FROM WHOM ALL BLESSINGS FLOW… “Now unto Him who is able to keep us from falling” 35
2019 IN REVIEW: MAY - DECEMBER
VOLUME NO. XII
PREACHERS TO THE ANNUAL CONFERENCE & FOR LOCAL ORDERS COMMITTEES
36
2019 IN REVIEW: MAY - DECEMBER
VOLUME NO. XII
THANKS TURNER WELL DONE!
37
2019 IN REVIEW: MAY - DECEMBER
VOLUME NO. XII
CLOSING WORSHIP & STEWARDS CONSECRATION SERVICE
38
2019 IN REVIEW: MAY - DECEMBER
VOLUME NO. XII
CAPITAL DISTRICT GOSPEL CHOIR
39
2019 IN REVIEW: MAY - DECEMBER
VOLUME NO. XII
40
2019 IN REVIEW: MAY - DECEMBER
VOLUME NO. XII
41
2019 IN REVIEW: MAY - DECEMBER
VOLUME NO. XII
42
2019 IN REVIEW: MAY - DECEMBER
VOLUME NO. XII
43
2019 IN REVIEW: MAY - DECEMBER
VOLUME NO. XII
44
2019 IN REVIEW: MAY - DECEMBER
VOLUME NO. XII
45
2019 IN REVIEW: MAY - DECEMBER
VOLUME NO. XII
46
2019 IN REVIEW: MAY - DECEMBER
VOLUME NO. XII
47
2019 IN REVIEW: MAY - DECEMBER
VOLUME NO. XII
48
2019 IN REVIEW: MAY - DECEMBER
VOLUME NO. XII
49
2019 IN REVIEW: MAY - DECEMBER
VOLUME NO. XII
PHOTO GALLERY 50
2019 IN REVIEW: MAY - DECEMBER
VOLUME NO. XII
51
2019 IN REVIEW: MAY - DECEMBER
VOLUME NO. XII
52
2019 IN REVIEW: MAY - DECEMBER
VOLUME NO. XII
53
2019 IN REVIEW: MAY - DECEMBER
VOLUME NO. XII
54
2019 IN REVIEW: MAY - DECEMBER
VOLUME NO. XII
55
2019 IN REVIEW: MAY - DECEMBER
VOLUME NO. XII
56
2019 IN REVIEW: MAY - DECEMBER
VOLUME NO. XII
57
2019 IN REVIEW: MAY - DECEMBER
VOLUME NO. XII
58
2019 IN REVIEW: MAY - DECEMBER
VOLUME NO. XII
59
2019 IN REVIEW: MAY - DECEMBER
VOLUME NO. XII
60
2019 IN REVIEW: MAY - DECEMBER
VOLUME NO. XII
61
2019 IN REVIEW: MAY - DECEMBER
VOLUME NO. XII
62
2019 IN REVIEW: MAY - DECEMBER
VOLUME NO. XII
At this year’s General Board Meeting, I was honored to be elected to serve on the Executive Committee of the Connectional Presiding Elders Council (CPEC). As a board member I will Chair the Public Relations Committee. The CPEC’s President is Elder Michele Goodloe (Eighth District) the Vice President is our own, Presiding Elder Conrad Pridgen (Western North Carolina Conference).
h
68
2019 IN REVIEW: MAY - DECEMBER
VOLUME NO. XII
A Glorious Crusade for a New Decade 2019 was an amazing year for the Capital District.
We believed GOD to be able to glorify Him beyond measure and exceed all expectations. Striving to be excellent or capital and provide a GOD led level of visionary and creative leadership, commensurate to who we are and have been ordained to be. Capital. I believe that the LORD honored our request and was pleased with our efforts. 2020 begins a new decade and year that will challenge our faith and our commitment to be the Body of Christ. There is much work to do, but none of us can do it alone. No one individual or church can accomplish what the LORD is calling us to do. We must strive to be one in Christ and one in the Spirit. Many members, but one body. To accomplish it will take a major paradigm shift and commitment to fulfill Christ’s call to be one, as He and the Father are one. For the Capital, this journey to be one will require continuous prayer, steadfast faith and take great effort and diligence. The dictionary defines a crusade as any vigorous, aggressive movement for the defense or advancement of an idea, cause, etc. I am asking GOD to inspire our hearts and to stir up our gifts, such that we exert vigorous and aggressive efforts to fulfill His will. To be one Body and to have one LORD and one faith. One Church. United together as one. 2020 not only marks the beginning of a new decade, but for the Capital District it also launches a vigorous, aggressive and intentional effort to advance the Kingdom of GOD and be one, as Jesus and the Father are one. A crusade. Trusting GOD to lead and guide us, using our strengths and gifts to bear much fruit. Working together, such that we glorify GOD beyond measure. We didn’t choose GOD, He chose us and He ordained us to go forth and bear much fruit, fruit that remains (John 15:16. Endeavoring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace (Ephesians 4:3). “Herein is my Father glorified, that you bear much fruit. So shall ye be my disciples (John 15:8) I pray you will join me in this glorious voyage - to be One is the Spirit Your fellow yoke bearer, Presiding Elder Johnny R. Calhoun
69
2019 IN REVIEW: MAY - DECEMBER
VOLUME NO. XII
I greet you with Jesus joy & hallelujah praise! Nine months ago today (May 4, 2019), I was blessed of GOD, through my Bishop (James Levert Davis) to be the Presiding Elder of the Washington Conference Capital District. I am grateful that the LORD made it so and thank GOD for my Bishop for giving me the appointment and the opportunity to serve an amazing PE District in the esteemed Washington Conference. I hope you enjoyed the pictorial summary and will diligently pray for my Bishop, the 40 churches over which I preside and their pastors, as well as your fellow yoke bearer. Please pray that we might be able to continue to glorify GOD beyond measure, bearing much fruit and advance the Kingdom of GOD. Presiding Elder Johnny R. Calhoun, Publisher/Photographer Rev. Alicia Hudnall, Editor Bro. Andre Williams, Photographer
70
2019 IN REVIEW: MAY - DECEMBER
VOLUME NO. XII
APPENDIX
63
Rt. Rev. James Levert Davis Presiding Bishop Rev. Johnny R. Calhoun Host Presiding Elder
I greet you with Jesus’ joy and hallelujah praise! Up front, let me say that it is with the utmost gratitude and humility, that I thank GOD for the privilege to be a Presiding Elder in the African Methodist Episcopal Church. With heartfelt thanksgiving, I honor our Episcopal leader - Bishop James Levert Davis, for the incredible opportunity to serve and provide leadership to the forty churches that comprise the esteemed Washington Conference Capital District. I am excited and filled with divine expectation over what the LORD is doing and going to do. This District Conference has been in the making over the last several months and has been planned to be a milestone in the life of the Capital District. It is our prayer and determination that it will exceed all expectations. Several initiatives shall be launched over the next three days that we’ll look back and recognize were initiated here. We are encouraging and seeking the entire District to take part in helping to forge a road map that shall help to guide us in addressing the critical concerns that affect the growth and vitality of our churches. We gather together this weekend to celebrate the Call of GOD. The amazing and irrefutable expression of heaven’s intention to garner the attention of those whom He intends to use. The pronouncement by GOD that we have been chosen and ordained from above, to go forth and bear much fruit. As a District we’re here to acknowledge the Calling of GOD. His intended purpose for our lives and this District. The works we are called to work, while it is day. A calling we as believers are called to fulfill. As the children of GOD, we’re coming together as the Called people of GOD, to worship Him and serve Him with gladness. To represent those whom have been saved and washed in the blood of the Lamb. Ambassadors of reconciliation who stand by faith on the Word of GOD and be those whom Jesus declared would do greater things than these. We have been called, given a calling and ordained to be the called! In closing, let me express my profound thanks for the host pastor - Rev. Dr. Daryl Kearney & Turner Memorial, for the major preparations and purposeful execution that will lift the bar and the standard for a Capital District Conference. Also, I acknowledge a GOD sent Planning Committee, that has diligently met to orchestrate and bring to fruition what we pray will be the best District Conference ever. Rev. Patricia and I thank all who thought it not robbery to attend and trust GOD that you will be blessed, encouraged, challenged and inspired to hear the call of GOD and as the called children of GOD, make your calling and election sure. Hallelujah! Your brother & friend in Christ, Rev. Johnny R. Calhoun
Capital District Office | P.O. Box 118 | Glen Burnie MD 21060 | capitaldistrictelder@gmail.com. | 410.320.4268
Washington
Conference
Turner Memorial AFRICAN METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH “Bearing Fruit that will Last!”
7201 16th Place ▪ Hyattsville, MD 20783-4399
Dr. D.K. Kearney, Pastor November 14, 2019 To Bishop & Supervisor Davis, Presiding Elder & Rev. Calhoun, Colleagues in Pastoral Ministry, Ambassadors of the Gospel of Jesus Christ, Delegates & Members of the Capital District: On behalf of the Fruitful members of Turner Memorial AME Church, I welcome the Capital District Conference to Turner Memorial, where we are striving to “Bear Fruit that will Last!” We are excited about what the Lord has in store for this conference embracing the theme “The Call, the Calling, and the Called.” We praise God for the leadership of our ever capable Presiding Elder Johnny R. Calhoun and his leading lady Rev. Patricia A. Calhoun as they lead this premier district of the Second Episcopal District to greater works and higher heights in ministry. Your steadfast guidance and encouragement does not go unnoticed and is appreciated. We, also, unitedly stand to honor the leadership of our Presiding Prelate, the Right Reverend James Levert Davis who with his lovely wife, Supervisor Arelis Beevers Davis, continue to lead us with excellence. We exclaim with sincere admiration THANK YOU!! From coast to coast, country to country, there is plenty of work to be done as it relates to the advancement of God’s Kingdom. The church must not be silent. We have an obligation, each of us, to do our part in making sure this happens. Collectively we can execute effective Christian leadership and serve as a model district for others to emulate. As you endeavor here at Turner we will do everything in our power to provide you with Uncompromising HOSPITALITY. Again, we welcome you and are glad that you are here. Be Fruitful!!
Dr. D.K. Kearney, Senior Pastor Office: 301-408-0750
Email: turner@turner-ame.org
Website: turner-ame.org
2019 DISTRICT CONFERENCE SCHEDULE
“The Call, The Calling & The Called” CONFERENCE at a GLANCE Thursday, November 14th: 3:00pm – 6:30pm 4:00pm – 6:00pm 7:30pm
Registration for Pastors & Delegates (Small Fellowship Hall) Pastor’s Workshop – Strength – Based Leadership Forum (Small Fellowship Hall) Opening Worship Experience Preacher: Bishop John R. Bryant, Retired Senior Bishop
Friday, November 15th: 7:30am – 9:00am 8:00am – 9:00am 8:45am – 9:00am 9:00am – 9:30am 9:30am – 10:00am 10:00am – 10:30am 10:30am – 11:30am 11:40am – 12:15pm 12:30pm – 1:50pm 2:00pm – 3:00pm 3:10pm – 3:45pm 3:45pm – 4:15pm 4:15pm – 4:45pm 4:45pm – 5:00pm 5:00pm 7:30pm
Registration for Pastors & Delegates (Small Fellowship Hall) Breakfast (Small Fellowship Hall) Praise & Worship (Sanctuary) “THE CALL” (Sanctuary) Presenter: Rev. Mark Whitlock Presiding Elder’s Greetings & Conference Focus Capital Concerns Overview & Process Breakout Sessions Reconvene & Report Out 3 minutes each group Lunch Breakout Sessions Reconvene & Report Out 5 minutes each group “THE CALLING” (Sanctuary) Presenter: Rev. Dr. William Campbell Video Conferencing Presentation Announcements Dinner Evening Worship Experience Preachers: Pastor Karen Myers, Pastor Valdes J. Snipes, Pastor Etoria V. Goggins
Saturday, November 16th: 7:45am – 9:15am 9:15am – 9:30am 9:30am – 10:00am 10:00am – 12:00pm 1:00pm
Women in Ministry Prayer Breakfast Preacher: Rev. Sherita Seawright, Supervisor of Missions, 9th Episcopal District Praise & Worship (Sanctuary) “THE CALLED” (Sanctuary) Presenter: Rev. Jonathan Davis Business Session Good360 Committee/Component Reports Closing/Communion Worship Experience & Stewards’ Consecration Preacher: Bishop Frank Madison Reid, III, 3rd Episcopal District LUNCH TO GO AFTER SERVICE
2019 IN REVIEW: MAY - DECEMBER
VOLUME NO. XII
66
“The Call, The Calling & The Called” A Capital Call, A Capital Work, A Capital People
Biblical References “And when the Lord saw that he turned aside to see, God called unto him out of the midst of the bush, and said, Moses, Moses. And he said, Here am I. And he said, Draw not nigh hither: put off thy shoes from off thy feet, for the place whereon thou standest is holy ground.” -Exodus 3:4-5 “Let every man abide in the same calling wherein he was called:” -1 Corinthians 7:20 “There is one body, and one Spirit, even as ye are called in one hope of your calling:” -Ephesians 4:4 “I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus:” -Philippians 3:14 “Wherefore also we pray always for you, that our God would count you worthy of this calling, and fulfil all the good pleasure of his goodness, and the work of faith with power:” -2 Thessalonians 1:11 “Who hath saved us, and called us with an holy calling, not according to our works, but according to his own purpose and grace, which was given us in Christ Jesus before the world began:” -2 Timothy 1:9 “Wherefore the rather, brethren, give diligence to make your calling and election sure: for if ye do these things, ye shall never fall:” -2 Peter 1:10
CAPITAL CONCERNS / IDEAS CLOSENESS TO CHRIST Spiritual Disciplines Focus, Online Bible Studies & Discipleship Training, Spiritual Retreats, Online Prayer & Devotionals, Spiritual Support Groups
CHURCH CAPACITY Evangelism Development, Stewardship Training, Social Enterprises, Grantsmanship, Facility Utilization, Legacy/Endowment Initiative, Multi-Site Ministry & Programs, Utilize Cluster Fund Raising Strategies, Develop & Promote Small Groups Ministry
CHURCH COMMUNITY COLLABORATION Public Officials Roster, Voter Drives, Town Hall Meetings & Forums, Cluster Initiatives, Acknowledge & Support Community Leaders, Quilts
CONTINUUM OF COMPASSION Local Service Agencies, Outreach Collaboration, Needs Assessments, Teach & Promote Missionary Responsibility, Good360, Etc.
CREATION CARE Environmental & Climate Change Issues, Teach & Promote Creation Care Stewardship (Water, Earth, Air), Become Engaged In Conservation Initiatives
COLLEGIAL CONNECTION Pulpit Exchanges, Capital Vault: PowerPoints, Lessons, Program Designs, Sermon Repository, Spiritual Retreats, Small Church Support, Planned Fellowships, Buses To Meetings Important Events Acknowledgment, Mentoring & Internships
CHALLENGE OUR CHILDREN Incentivize Spiritual & Academic Growth, Teach & Engage Our Children To Pray In Church, Internships, Promote Youth Leadership & Volunteerism, Create And Support Relevant Culture, Supporting Community Youth Outreach, Bible Spelling Bees, Scripture Knowledge Contests, Collective Church VBS, Capital District Youth Of The Month/Year, Youth Led Initiatives
CAPITAL CONCERNS BREAKOUT SESSIONS
CLOSENESS TO CHRIST:
Educating and engaging the membership in spiritual disciplines & formation Facilitator: Rev. Dr. Anita J. Gould Room: Allen Room (Room 202)
CHURCH CAPACITY:
Ability to operate, meet church obligations and conduct outreach ministry Facilitator: Rev. Mark Whitlock Room: Brown Room (Room 203)
COMMUNITY COLLABORATION:
Partnering with community organizations, nonprofits and public agencies Facilitator: Rev. Brenda White Room: Payne Room (Room 204)
CONTINUUM OF COMPASSION:
Connecting and leveraging our collective missionary outreach and resources Facilitator: Rev. Dr. William Campbell Room: Ransom Room (Room 206)
CREATION CARE/CLIMATE CHANGE: Educating, empowering and engaging our members in environmental conservation and sustainability Facilitator: Rev. Dr. Gerald Folsom Room: Anderson Room (Room 208) COLLEGIAL CONNECTION:
Strengthening clergy relationships and partnering activity Facilitator: Rev. Derrick N. Brown Room: Small Fellowship Hall – East
CHALLENGE OUR CHILDREN:
Developing, exposing and incentivizing our youth to engage in leadership, service and discipleship initiatives Facilitator: Rev. Karen Myers Room: Small Fellowship Hall – West
2019 CAPITAL DISTRICT CONFERENCE COMMITTEES District Conference Committee: Presiding Elder Johnny R. Calhoun – Chair Rev. Dr. D. K. Kearney – Host Pastor/ Hospitality Rev. C. Michelle Langston – Treasurer Rev. Dr. William Campbell – Workshops Rev. Vernon Ware – Journal Marketing Rev. Derrick N. Brown & Rev. Dr. Gerald Folsom – Media/Publicity Finance Committee: Rev. Dr. Michael E. Bell, Sr. – Chair Rev. Dr. William Campbell Rev. Etoria V. Goggins Rev. Derrick N. Brown Rev. Dr. Lois A. Poag-Ray Rev. Vernon Ware Rev. Raymond Edmonds, Jr.
Rev. Dr. Michael E. Bell, Sr. – Vice Chair Rev. Etoria V. Goggins – Worship Rev. Jonathan Davis – Secretary/Clergy Care Rev. Dededrick O. Rivers – Protocol/Marshall of Arms Rev. Anna E. Mosby – Logistics/Project Management Rev. Colin Figueroa – Leadership Development
Rev. C. Michelle Langston – Treasurer Rev. Dr. D. K. Kearney Rev. Dr. Gerald Folsom Rev. Dededrick O. Rivers Rev. Dr. Wendell O. E. Christopher, Sr. Rev. Dr. Ronald Owens
District Management & Administration Committee: Presiding Elder Johnny R. Calhoun – Chair Rev. C. Michelle Langston Rev. Dr. Mary C. Newton Rev. Derrick N. Brown Rev. Colin Figueroa Rev. Alicia Hudnall Preachers to the Annual Conference Committee: Rev. Dr. Lois A. Poag-Ray – Chair Rev. Dr. Michael E. Bell, Sr. Rev. Dr. William Campbell Rev. Dr. D. K. Kearney Rev. Dr. Mary C. Newton Rev. Dr. Peter G. Taylor Rev. Dr. Ronald Owens Rev. Anna E. Mosby Preachers for Local Orders Committee: Rev. Jonathan Davis – Chair Rev. Etoria V. Goggins Rev. Dr. Stanley Fuller
Rev. Dr. Anita J. Gould Rev. Vernon Ware Rev. Dr. Valdes J. Snipes
2019 CAPITAL DISTRICT CONFERENCE PARTICIPANTS CHURCH
DELEGATE
ALTERNATE
Adams Inspirational Allen Chapel Allen, Baltimore Bethany Bethel Dale City Cowdensville Davis Memorial Dickerson Emmanuel
Carla Cash Beth Britton Althea Clark Janie Barnes Kirk Johnson Brenda Brown Andrea Parson Michele Hudson Anita Burnell
Nachelle White Denise Lomax Charlene McClain Boyd Maggie Edwards-Johnson Dexter Montgomery Michelle Davenport Marie Davis Darlene Shelton Gwendolyn Felder
Faith
Nicole Rochester
Ernest Dolison
Faith Mission Falls Road First, Manassas Gaines Chapel Hemingway Memorial La Plata Lee Memorial Metropolitan, Cumberland Mount Olive Mt. Gilboa Mt. Pisgah Mt. Zion, Knoxville Mt. Zion, Severn New Creation New Hope Pilgrim Quinn Chapel Reid Temple St. James St. Jude St. Mark St. Paul, DC St. Paul, Dickerson St. Stephens Star of Bethlehem Turner Memorial Union Bethel Ward Memorial Wayman, Frederick Wayman Good Hope
Bernard Hayes Rashida Rigmaiden Valerie G. Bell Linda Harvey Patricia Matthews Erica Bennett Betty Greene Garland Kearney Muriel Hicks Tyaisha Inyamah Marc Fleming Sr. Gale Barbour Evelyn Thomas Rosie Pointer Demetria Brown Arnold Fortune Dionna Ali Jamie Davidson Majorie Phillips Yolanda Lindo Mike Wilson Juanita Hartsfield-Hazel Anna Gibson Regina Jackson Sandy Forney Chandelle R. Ivy Anthony Malone Mable Elliott Brian Wilson Andrea Darden
Deborah Williams Shirl Taylor Cynthia Floyd Nicole Holmes Robert Mills Brian Johnson Marie Lee Luavina Meade Anthony Patricia Dean April Harris Anthony Reed Gwen Hoy Carrie Brown Michelle McDuffie Adelle W. Ross-Younger Dietra Chase Kenneth R. Lindsey Studly Augusta Deidre McNair Jacquelyn Rhone Karen Wilson Kimberly Jackson Carrol Ann Wright Terrance Bradshaw Christine James Cozette L. Jackson Deborah Wiley Jocelyn White Maurice Boyd Berry White
PASTOR Rev. LaTisha Cokely Rev. Dr. Michael E. Bell, Sr. Rev. Brenda White Rev. David Robinson Rev. Dr. Melynda Clarke Rev. Ashley Davis Rev. Roxanne Parson Rev. Meredith Hudson Rev. Herman Gladney Rev. Dr. Wendell O.E. Christopher, Sr. Rev. Andra Hoxie Rev. Raymond Edmonds, Jr. Rev. Etoria V. Goggins Rev. Karen Myers Rev. Dr. Gerald Folsom Rev. Aisha Johnson Rev. Dr. Mary C. Newton Rev. Anthony Josey Rev. Dr. Ronald Owens Rev. Dr. Anita J. Gould Rev. C. Michelle Langston Rev. Yolandra Johnson Rev. Dr. Valdes Snipes Rev. Anthony Young Rev. Derrick Brown Rev. Vernon Ware Rev. Luke Robinson Rev. Mark Whitlock, Jr. Rev. Richard McNair Rev. Anna E. Mosby Rev. Jonathan Davis Rev. Dr. Peter G. Taylor Rev. Joseph Brown, Sr. Rev. Wayne Bennett Rev. Dr. Stanley Fuller Rev. Dr. D.K. Kearney Rev. Dr. William Campbell Rev. Dededrick O. Rivers Rev. Robert Ray Rev. Dr. Lois A. Poag-Ray
THE STEWARD CONSECRATION LITANY PRESIDING ELDER: Father GOD, we come before You, recognizing and acknowledging that you made us from the dust of the ground and You breathed into our nostrils the breath of life and we became living souls. LORD, You know our frame and remember that we are dust. STEWARDS: From dust we have come and from dust we shall return. PRESIDING ELDER: Stewards, You have been made of the dust and have been called by GOD to be His Sanctuary, His Temple. He has called you to fulfill His will and has placed a calling upon your life. To help you fulfill your calling He has placed within you a treasure. His Presence. You are born of the Spirit and this earthly house is not your home. You have been called from darkness into the marvelous light. From carnal to spiritual. From foreigners and strangers to become the very children of Almighty GOD STEWARDS: We have been called out and commanded to come out from amongst them and be separated from the things of this world. We have a calling to fulfill and must work the works of Him who sent us while it is day. We are the Called children of GOD PASTORS: Because of your faithfulness to the Church, and the quality of your life, we have appointed you to serve as spiritual leaders in the African Methodist Episcopal Church. You have been confirmed by the Presiding Elder, but most importantly you have been chosen and ordained by Almighty GOD. The LORD has called you and bestowed upon you, Stewards of the Capital District, a calling. By the power of the Holy Spirit, according to the Word of GOD, you are fellow laborers together with GOD, you are the house and garden of GOD. You are the Called. As your Pastors, we have selected you and elevated you to hold this distinguished position of Steward, and we pray that you will make your calling and election sure. STEWARDS: Yes, we acknowledge our appointment and confirmation. We also acknowledge that we are those whom GOD has called and given a duty, a calling, to go forth and bear much fruit, fruit that will last. As the called, GOD’s ambassadors of reconciliation, we commit ourselves to serve the LORD with gladness, to be loyal and faithful servants, to minister to the least, to pray for our pastors and our churches. We will pray without ceasing and study to show ourselves approved. We will love the LORD our GOD with all of our hearts, souls and minds and our neighbors and fellow members as ourselves. CAPITAL DISTRICT MEMBERS: Stewards, we the membership of the Washington Conference Capital District, thank GOD for you and pray that you will allow the LORD to use you, so that you glorify Him in your public and private life. So that you will be examples of holiness, and compassion, faithfulness and steadfast love. We pray that you will inspire and encourage us to live worthy of the call of GOD. Not by your words, but by the lives that you live. Such that we not only accept GOD’s calling upon our lives, but that we live as the Called children of GOD. PRESIDING ELDER: I beseech you Stewards, by the mercies of GOD that you present your bodies as living sacrifices. Holy and acceptable. It is your reasonable service. I admonish you to not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your minds. Stewards we pray that the Almighty, soul saving, life changing Spirit of GOD, consecrate you for His service and that He breathe upon you, even now, the Holy Ghost.
STEWARDS: Father GOD, Take our lives and let them be consecrated LORD to thee. Consecrate us now, to thy service LORD, by the power of grace divine. And let our souls look up with a steadfast hope and our wills be lost in thine. Breathe on us breath of GOD, fill us with life anew. That we might love as though doth love and do what thou doth do. ALL: Breathe on them breath of GOD, until they are holy thine. Until every earthly part of them glows with thy fire divine. Hallelujah! In Jesus’ Name we pray and as the Called children of we GOD say, Amen! Amen! And Amen!
SERVICE OF HOLY COMMUNION General Confession Almighty God, Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, Maker of all things, Judge of all men, we acknowledge and bewail our manifold sins and wickedness which we from time to time most grievously have committed by thought, word, and deed against Your divine Majesty, provoking most justly Your wrath and indignation against us. We do earnestly repent and are heartily sorry for these our misdoings; the remembrance of them is grievous unto us. Have mercy upon us, Have mercy upon us, most merciful Father for Your Son our Lord Jesus Christ's sake; forgive us all that is past, and grant that we may ever hereafter serve and please You in newness of life, to the honor and glory of Your name, through Jesus Christ our Lord, Amen.
DOXOLOGY Praise God from whom all blessings flow; Praise Him all creatures here below; Praise him above, ye heavenly host, Praise Father, Son and Holy Ghost. Amen.
BENEDICTION ........................................................................... Bishop Frank Madison Reid, III
THURSDAY OPENING WORSHIP PREACHER Bishop John Richard Bryant Retired Senior Bishop African Methodist Episcopal Church Bishop John Richard Bryant is the son of the late Bishop Harrison James Bryant and Edith Holland Bryant. He was born and raised in Baltimore, Maryland and is a graduate of Baltimore City College High School and is a graduate of Morgan State University in his hometown. After college, Bishop Bryant joined the Peace Corps and served as a volunteer in West Africa from 1965 to 1967. He has taken seriously the words "study to show thyself approved‌" Bishop Bryant received his B.A. in 1965 from Morgan State University, Master of Theology in 1970 from the Boston University School of Theology and a Doctor of Ministry degree in 1975 from the Colgate Rochester Divinity School. He also received several Honorary Doctoral Degrees from Wilberforce University, Paul Quinn College, Payne Theological Seminary, the Southern California School of Ministry, Virginia Seminary and his alma mater, Morgan State University. In addition, he was honored as an outstanding alumni of Boston University School of Theology and was inducted into the Baltimore City College High School Hall of Fame. Bishop Bryant was a Martin Luther King, Jr. Fellow and while pursuing his doctoral studies at Colgate Rochester Divinity School, he completed special studies at the University of Lagos [Nigeria] and the University of Ghana at Legon and served as a Peace Corp volunteer. "The spirit of the Lord is upon me‌" is reflected in the witness of John Richard Bryant. He has pastored three churches, Bethel A.M.E. Church, Fall River, MA; St. Paul A.M.E. Church, Cambridge, MA; and Bethel A.M.E. Church, Baltimore, MD. Under his pastoral ministry, 103 men and women have entered the Christian Ministry. With an emphasis on church growth, community development and political empowerment, he has preached and/or taught on more than 35 college campuses and across five continents. Bishop Bryant has served on several denominational, academic, community, ecumenical boards and was the recipient of many awards. In 1988, John Richard Bryant was elected and consecrated the 106th Bishop of the African Methodist Episcopal Church at the General Conference in Fort Worth, Texas. He was assigned to serve in the 14th Episcopal District (West Africa) where he presided over 101 churches and 25 schools. During his administration, he expanded the A.M.E. Church to include the first Francophone, the Ivory Coast. While in West Africa, he was given the additional assignment of the 10th Episcopal District (Texas) in January 1991. At the 1992 General Conference he was officially assigned to the 10th Episcopal District, where he presided over 300 churches and served as the Chairman of the Board of Paul Quinn College. Under his leadership, this historically Black institution moved from probationary status to full accreditation and successfully raised $29 million dollars for the Capital Fund Drive. In July 2000, the Episcopal Committee of the 46th General Conference assigned Bishop Bryant to the 5th Episcopal District, where he presided over the A.M.E. churches in 14 states west of the Mississippi. Under his episcopacy, the 5th District partnered with businesses and banking institutions that resulted in the purchase of new homes by the members of the district valued at more than $100 million dollars.
In addition, Bishop Bryant’s economic development initiatives resulted in several creative ventures, which included the construction of a new hotel in the St. Louis, MO area. In 2008, at the 48th Quadrennial Session of the General Conference, Bishop Bryant became the Senior Bishop of the African Methodist Episcopal Church and presided over the 4th Episcopal District which included seven (7) mid-western states, Canada and the AME India Annual Conference where the Lord allowed him and his wife, Reverend Cecelia Bryant, to officially bring the India Conference into the African Methodist Episcopal Church. At present, there are one hundred and sixty (160) churches in the AME India Annual Conference. Bishop Bryant is the recipient of many honors and awards including Ebony Magazines’ Honor Roll of Outstanding African-American Preachers and was recognized on their list of the 100 Most Influential Black Americans. He has published a collection of sermons entitled, "God Can: Sermons of Encouragement from the Life of Elijah." He and his wife, The Rev. Dr. Cecelia Williams Bryant are both the authors of "Healing For Wounded Vows." Bishop Bryant has been a faithful servant of the Lord Jesus Christ. He preached the gospel for over 55 years and in July 2016 at the Historic 50th Session of the General Conference of the African Methodist Episcopal Church, Bishop Bryant’s request for retirement from the episcopacy of his beloved church was granted. Even though retired from active administrative duties he is still serving the Lord with gladness. Bishop Bryant is currently on staff at Payne Theological Seminary as a Mentor for the Doctor of Ministry Degree Program and he continues to preach the length and breathe of this nation. He loves to proclaim the Good News of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ and to compel men and women to acknowledge Jesus Christ as their personal Savior. Bishop John and Rev. Dr. Cecelia Williams Bryant are the parents of The Rev. Dr. Jamal Harrison Bryant and The Rev. Dr. Thema Simone Bryant Davis and both are proud grandparents.
SATURDAY CLOSING WORSHIP PREACHER Bishop Frank Madison Reid, III Presiding Prelate, 3rd Episcopal District & Ecumenical Officer African Methodist Episcopal Church Bishop Frank M. Reid, III is an internationally known leader, innovative thinker and a preeminent power speaker. Born in Chicago, IL in 1951, Bishop Reid is a 5th generation AME minister whose father (1972-89) and grandfather (194062) served the African Methodist Church as Bishops. Reid was raised in a family that treasured distinguished educational achievement and excellence. His father and mother surrounded him with books, read to him daily and continually reminded him that “readers become leaders.” Educationally equipped in the public school system in St. Louis, MO, Dr. Reid graduated from Central H.S. in 1969, attended the Rockefeller Foundations Yale Transitional Year Program in 1970, graduated from Yale University with a BA in 1974, Harvard Divinity School, M.Div., in 1978 and was a member of the distinguished Samuel Dewitt Proctor Fellows at United Theological Seminary, DMin., 1990. Reid’s commitment to educational empowerment led the Governor of the state of Maryland to appoint Dr. Reid to a second term on the 17-member Board of Regents, which “oversees the system’s academic, administrative, and financial operations; formulates policy; and appoints the USM Chancellor and the Presidents of the system’s 12 institutions.” Dr. Reid preached his trial sermon in 1971 while his father was the Pastor of Metropolitan AME Church in Washington, DC (1968-72). His first ministerial experience was as a missionary pastor in Monrovia, Liberia West Africa at the Eliza Turner AME Church (1975-76). After graduating from seminary, Dr. Reid was appointed to his first pastorate in the U.S., Greater Bethel AME Church in Charlotte, NC (1978-80). From 1980-88 he was the servant leader of Ward AME Church in Los Angeles and was sent by the late Bishop H. Hartford Brookins to the historic pulpit of Bethel AME Church in Baltimore, MD where he served as Senior Pastor from October 1988 – August 2016. All of the congregations that Dr. Reid served, achieved tremendous spiritual, intellectual, economic, political and numerical growth and empowerment. While pastoring in Charlotte, NC students would walk from Johnson C. Smith University to worship, witness and work at Greater Bethel AME Church.
In Los Angeles Ward AME Church was the center for the Free South Africa Movement on the West Coast and was extremely active in Rev. Jesse Jackson’s historic 1984 and 1988 presidential campaigns. Because of Ward’s leadership in spiritual and social transformation, Reid received an NAACP Image Award for outstanding social engagement and for partnership in writing plays that addressed relevant social issues. As Senior Pastor of Bethel Baltimore, Dr. Reid led the congregation to become one church in two locations. Bethel maintained the main sanctuary in Baltimore city and expanded to a thriving location in Baltimore County. For 27 years Bethel led the way in encouraging, equipping and empowering people to make a difference and change the world. A “thought leader on issues of culture”; Dr. Reid served as consultant on the 1980’s NBC comedy AMEN. Bishop Reid’s outstanding leadership and preaching has been recognized with numerous awards, in publications and on national platforms including: The H. Beecher Hicks Outstanding Preacher’s Award, Cover Story for Charisma Magazine, Senior Statesman of The Hampton’s Minister’s Conference (2016), Father of The Year by the National Diabetes Organization, The Harlow Fulwood Community Championship Award, The Baltimore Chapter of the NAACP Leadership Award In the 1990’s the legendary Outreach of Love TV Ministry featuring the messages of Dr. Reid, reached millions on BET, The Armed Services, and The Word Networks. The Outreach of Love impacted and impressed an entire generation of preachers and teachers of the gospel. From 2002-2008 Bethel and Dr. Reid played an important part in the HBO series, “The Wire.” Bethel and Dr. Reid were mentioned positively and regularly throughout the series; a worship service was filmed at Bethel of Dr. Reid preaching and The Outreach of Love Choir singing. Dr. Reid authored two influential and bestselling books, “The Nehemiah Plan and Resto. ring the House of God.” The Nehemiah Plan is an excellent book on rebuilding broken lives and communities. He co-authored with Dr. Jeremiah Wright, “When Black Men Stand Up for God: Reflections on the Million Man March.” Bishop Reid believes in the power of ecumenism. He works tirelessly to create an dialogue that will benefit both faith and secular communities. Positive, Prophetic, Powerful, Proactive and Passionate are the words often used to describe Dr. Reid’s global and radical Christ centered ministry. His greatest legacy is his faith and family. He has been married to the woman he calls “Lady” Marlaà Reid since March 15, 1980. Together they are the proud parents of three gifted children: Shane Alexander, FranShon Mariee’ and Faith Mirachelle. Bishop Reid was elected as the 138th Bishop of the AME Church in July of 2016. Bishop Reid is a third generation Bishop in the Reid Family. His election was historic for the AME Church. For the first time in AME history 3 generations of the Reid men were elevated to the Episcopacy. Currently, Bishop Reid serves as the Ecumenical Officer and the Endorsing Agent for the AME Church. Under his leadership the Chaplaincy is growing and expanding for greater impact. He now also serves as the Presiding Prelate of Third Episcopal District. Now, in the sage/mentor stage of his life and ministry, Dr. Reid is spending most of his time equipping future generations to glorify God in faith, family, fitness and finance.
SATURDAY PRAYER BREAKFAST PREACHER Rev. Sherita Moon Seawright Supervisor of Missions, 9th Episcopal District African Methodist Episcopal Church The Reverend Sherita Moon Seawright is married to Bishop Harry L. Seawright. She is the mother of two adult children, Shari Nicole Seawright and Harry Matthew Seawright, and the grandmother of Cameron Isaiah Seawright. Sherita Moon Seawright was born in Clinton, South Carolina, the second child of the late Peter and Aurelia Moon. She grew up in Mount Moriah Baptist Church, Clinton, where she served as a Sunday school teacher and a musician. Rev. Sherita loves learning! She received her early education in the public schools of Mountville, Cross Hill and Clinton, South Carolina. She earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in political science, summa cum laude, from Benedict College, Columbia, SC and a Master of Arts degree in political science from The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio. She earned a Master of Divinity degree from Howard University School of Divinity in Washington, DC. Rev. Sherita served a one-year Chaplaincy Internship and a one-year Chaplaincy Residency at MedStar Georgetown University Hospital, Washington, DC, earning five units of Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE). Rev. Sherita Seawright, an Itinerant Elder in the African Methodist Episcopal (AME) Church, served as the Assistant Pastor of Union Bethel AME, Brandywine, MD and the Lead Ministry Coordinator of Union Bethel North, Temple Hills, MD. One of her greatest joys is preaching the gospel of Jesus Christ and empowering people for Christian service. In 1982, Sherita Moon married then-Reverend Harry L. Seawright and joined Prodigal African Methodist Episcopal Church, Swansea, South Carolina. She served as an office assistant to Mrs. Wilhelmina Lawrence, former Connectional President of the Women’s Missionary Society (WMS). The position proved to be excellent on-the-job training and equipped her with a wealth of AME Church knowledge, including its people and processes. As a lay person Rev. Sherita also served as president of the local Women’s Missionary Society at Hemingway Temple, and a musician at Payne Memorial in Jessup, Maryland where she also organized the children’s choir. Her concern for youth was further demonstrated in innovative projects she developed for the local Young People’s Division. When her husband was assigned to Union Bethel AME, Rev. Sherita accepted the invitation to serve as the local WMS president. During that time she presented workshops at WMS Area Meetings and for local societies. At Union Bethel, Rev. Sherita was instrumental in expanding the Union Bethel Women’s Ministry. In 1988 she organized the 1st annual Women’s Retreat. For 29 years she led flourishing ministries, retreats and activities that
promoted and enriched the lives of UBAME women. She continues to minister to women of all denominations, races and cultures. For the past 27 years, Rev. Sherita has led a Women's Retreat at Union Bethel AME Church, and she continues to minister to women of all denominations, races and cultures. Her former work assignments were at the US Agency for International Development, the US Defense Intelligence Agency, and Community Ministry of Prince George’s County. For 7 years, Rev. Sherita directed Community Ministry’s Warm Nights winter church shelter program and the Sharing Fund. As a result of her efforts to educate Prince George’s County’s African American churches about homelessness, many churches accepted the challenge to shelter the homeless or assist other churches in doing so or by preparing and serving meals for homeless and hungry persons at the Community Place Café. Through Community Ministry’s Sharing Fund Rev. Sherita partnered with other agencies to prevent people from facing evictions, foreclosures, utility cutoffs and other forms of economic distress. For 12 years Reverend Seawright served as Executive Director of Bethel House, Inc., a Union Bethel non-profit agency that provides holistic care and services to individuals and families. In this capacity she managed the dayto-day operations and was responsible for securing funds. Her deep commitment to helping people, especially women, reach the highest spiritual level that God desires was expressed through the creation of ministries and programs designed to free women, children and families from domestic violence and sexual abuse. Rev. Sherita served as a Chaplain for Capital Caring, an agency that provides Palliative Care, Counseling and Hospice services. Assigned to the agency’s Largo [Maryland] Neighborhood, this employment opportunity allowed her to offer spiritual care to patients who usually were in the last months of life, their families and agency staff. Describing chaplaincy as “a great opportunity,” Rev. Sherita served persons of all faith traditions as well as those with no declared faith ties! Rev. Sherita received numerous awards and scholarships: Storm Thurmond Foundation Award; Daniel Foundation Scholarship; The Ohio State University Minority Master’s Fellowship; Benjamin E. Mays Fellowship; Ford Foundation Fellowship; Howard University School of Divinity Dean’s Award for Academic Excellence; and Congress of National Black Church’s Fellowship. In 2013 the Mid-Atlantic Region of the National Council of Negro Women honored her with their Distinguished Community Leader Award. As a uniquely creative and accomplished preacher, teacher and workshop facilitator, Rev. Sherita has ministered in many parts of the United States and in Botswana, the Eighteenth Episcopal District of the AME Church. She is the author of a book, When Momma Died—A Journey to Self and a poem, "A Prayer for the Women Who Wait." Rev. Sherita is a member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc.
FRIDAY EVENING WORSHIP PREACHERS Rev. Karen Myers Pastor Gaines Chapel AME Church Rev. Myers serves as the pastor of Gaines Chapel AME Church in Elkridge, Maryland, the Washington Conference Christian Education Director and as the Assistant Director of Christian Education for the Capitol District of the Washington Conference. She is a Public Affairs Specialist with the Office of the Inspector General for the Social Security Administration, serving in Federal government for 30 years. Reverend Karen A. Myers is a native of Baltimore and a product of the Baltimore City Public School System. She received a Bachelor’s of Science Degree in Journalism from the University of Maryland College Park and earned a Master’s of Arts Degree in Church Ministries, with a specialization in Congregational Leadership from The Ecumenical Institute of Theology at St. Mary’s Seminary and University. She is the proud and blissful wife of Rev. Aaron D. Myers, Sr., and the joyful mother of remarkable adults, Ava, Adam, and Aaron and his wife, Christian. Rev. Myers passionately believes in studying and applying God’s word to our lives. She seeks to promote spiritual maturity by providing a network of enriching experiences through bible study, ministry sessions, conferences, retreats, workshops and seminars, which she develops and facilitates. She truly cherishes the Word of God and believes that it must have priority in the lives of Christians. Nothing compares to the nourishment God and his Word supplies. At Gaines Chapel, she established A.N.C.H.O.R.E.D. (Anointed and Committed to Honoring our Redeemer Daily) Ministries for Men and Women, initiated Vacation Bible School for youth and adults, reenergized Wednesday nights with the Pastor’s Bible Study, implemented a new members’ course of study, re-instituted Sunday morning church school and recently added a Youth and Young Adult Bible Study. She works diligently to enrich the church membership and the worship experience and to foster outreach, adding such ministries as the Youth and Young Adult, Health, Prison, Nursing Home, Prayer and Visitation, Social Media and Sound Ministry, and a Praise Team. Her utmost desire is to be a sincere servant of the Most High God. She keeps Psalms 27:4 before her face, which reads: One thing I have desired of the Lord and that will I seek after; that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, to behold the beauty of the Lord and to inquire in his temple. Rev. Myers earnestly believes that everything that has breath should Praise the Lord. Praise Ye the Lord!
Rev. Dr. Valdes J. Snipes Pastor Mt. Zion AME Church – Severn, MD Rev. Dr. Valdes J. Snipes is Pastor of Mt. Zion AME Church, Severn, Maryland. She was appointed to Mt. Zion in April 2016 by Bishop William DeVeaux and is serving faithfully. Dr. Snipes served as Pastor of Cornerstone AME Church of LaPlata, MD from April 2012-2016. She is an ordained Itinerant Elder in the African Methodist Episcopal Church. She accepted her call at Hemingway Memorial AME Church, on Easter Sunday morning in 2005 and later in November 2005 she was recommended and admitted to the Washington Conference Board of Examiners in 2005. Dr. Snipes served as the Washington Conference Women in Ministry (WIM) Caucus Leader for the Capital District (20102014) and currently is the Second Episcopal District (SED) Women in Ministry (WIM) Second Vice-President. She served the Second Episcopal District under the Episcopal leadership of Bishop William DeVeaux and Supervisor Pam DeVeaux as the District Executive Administrator to the Episcopal Leadership and to the Second Episcopal District (2012-2016). She served as the SED District’s office support to Servant leaders, Bishop James L and Supervisor Arelis Davis (2016-2017). Currently, Dr. Snipes is an instructor for the Washington Conference Board of Examiners (BOE). She serves on the following committees: Washington Conference Church Growth and Development, Disaster Relief Committee, and the Legislative Committee. Dr. Snipes is the newly elected President of the AME Ministerial Alliance of DMV. Dr. Snipes holds degrees and certificates in the following: BA degree in Gerontology, High Point University; Certificates in Gerontology from Livingston College and North Carolina A & T University; Master of Public Administration (MPA) specializing in Gerontology and Counseling. North Carolina Central University; PhD in Organization and Management, specializing in Leadership, Capella University; Master of Divinity (MDiv) from Howard University School of Divinity, 2017 Black Theology and Leadership Institute (Certificate). Dr. Snipes has over 30 years working in the field of aging, intergenerational programs, leadership and executive management. Over the years, she has held leadership and executive management positions, managing program budgets up to $50 million. Currently, Dr. Snipes is the Executive Director/ CEO of United Cerebral Palsy of Washington DC and Northern VA. She serves on the Board of Directors of the PEACE Multicultural Theological Seminary and Academic Dean and professor of Biblical studies, leadership and church administration. Dr. Snipes has traveled extensively across the US advocating for older adults and training professionals in leadership, organizational management in the fields of aging, employment and training and developmental disabilities. Dr. Snipes is Founder/CEO of Sed-Lav, Inc. Management and Administrative Support services where she helps individuals self-publish and provide other consulting work in management and administration. She has served as Editor for five authors. Dr. Snipes is committed to uplifting and motivating people. She is referred to as the “Purpose Pusher” because she has been called to help individuals recognize their God-given potential and empower them to use their talents and gifts to the fullest in building and equipping God’s kingdom. Dr. Snipes is a leader, change agent, and administrator who is faithful, committed and dedicated to her Lord and Savior, Jesus the Christ. Dr. Snipes is the mother of Carlton, grandmother of Cannon, MeME to Joi Wilson and the mother in ministry to several sons and daughters. Her favorite scriptures are: Psalm 34:1- “I will bless the Lord at all times, His praise shall continually be in my month” and Philippians 4:13- “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”
Rev. Etoria V. Goggins Pastor First AME Church – Manassas, VA Reverend Etoria V. Goggins is an ordained Itinerant Elder in the African Methodist Episcopal Church. She is a native of Nashville, Tennessee. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Education from Middle Tennessee State University in Murfreesboro, Tennessee and a Master of Divinity from the Howard University School of Divinity, Washington, D.C. Rev. Goggins was employed with the law firm of Hogan & Hartson in Washington, D.C. She was formerly employed with the Prince George’s County Public School System. She is currently pursuing a Doctor of Ministry at Wesley Theological Seminary in Washington D.C. In April 2016, Rev. Goggins was appointed Pastor of First AME Church in Manassas, Virginia. She is the first woman to lead the congregation. In January 2019, Rev. Goggins was awarded the inaugural Jennie Dean Legacy Award from the City of Manassas. She was recognized for her inspirational leadership in helping to improve the well-being of her congregation and community. She is also the recipient of the Ebone Image Award for Religion from the National Coalition of 100 Black Women (Northern Virginia). Rev. Goggins served as Pastor of Mt. Zion AME Church in Severn, Maryland (2005-2016). Within the first year of her appointment in April 2005, God blessed the members to move from Odenton, Maryland into a new church facility located in Severn, Maryland. Rev. Goggins serves as the Statistician for the Washington Annual Conference (Second Episcopal District). She has also served as the Recording Secretary for the Washington Conference and President of the AME Ministerial Alliance of Washington D.C. and Vicinity (2013-2015). Rev. Goggins has served as the “Women in Ministry” Caucus Leader for the Capital District in the Washington Conference. Additionally, she has served on the Board of Directors of the Collective Empowerment Group. She has held many other leadership positions in the church. She has also served as a volunteer hospital chaplain at Howard University Hospital. Rev. Goggins is a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. Her life and ministry can be summarized with the following passage of Scripture: “God is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that you can think or ask according to the power that works IN you.” (Ephesians 3:20)
2019 IN REVIEW: MAY - DECEMBER
VOLUME NO. XII
Rt. Rev. James Levert Davis, Presiding Bishop Second Episcopal District Mother Arelis Davis, Episcopal Supervisor SED Women’s Missionary Society Rev. Johnny R. Calhoun, Presiding Elder Washington Conference, Capital District Capital District Office P.O. Box 118 Glen Burnie, MD. 21060-7730
72