August 2021 Edition of The Christian Recorder

AUGUST 2021

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thechristianrecorder.com

VOLUME 170, NO. 11

AUGUST 2021

TURNER CHAPEL FEEDS THE MASSES IN GREENWOOD, MISSISSIPPI WITH THE ASSISTANCE OF MAYOR CAROLYN MCADAMS Turner Chapel AME Church, Greenwood, MS, located in the 8th Episcopal District where the Rt. Rev. JJulius Harrison McAllister, Sr., is the presiding bishop; and under the leadership of the Rev. Archie R. Smith, ppresiding elder of the Northwest Mississippi Conference, has set the pace for churches throughout the NW Mississippi and county areas with community outreach during the pandemic. Sis. Barbara Gosa, director of M Christian Education stated: Turner Chapel is blessed to have Rev. Dr. Alice H. Crenshaw as our pastor.

C In April of 2020, she was able to get food distribution, The visions she brought to the church are exceptional. Rev. masks, and sanitizers into the Greenwood community through Crenshaw brought life back into our church because now we Women in Ministry of the North Mississippi Conference; have Bible study once again and prayer meetings. She has gotten we started a drive-by pick-up of food boxes for those in need. more members involved, especially our men with the business In December 2020, she was able to get a contract for Turner of our church. This has not happened in an exceptionally Chapel with a vendor. Now Turner Chapel is one of the long time. Three (3) months after Rev. Crenshaw’s arrival, largest sites of food box distribution to area churches, the the pandemic happened, and everything shut down. However, Greenwood community, and several small African American even the pandemic did not stop her from pastoring. She communities, throughout Leflore County and beyond across instilled in us to continue having our regular programs, official the North Mississippi Conference. Let us not stop there; Rev. board, steward and trustee meetings, Bible study, even in the Crenshaw’s vision includes helping us get an ...continued on p3 pandemic, over Zoom.

ST. JOHN AME CHURCH HUNTSVILLE, OPENS FOR IN-PERSON SERVICE

By Ms. Barbara Johnson, 9th Episcopal District

“Praise God From Whom All Blessings Flow” was the opening hymn of praise on Sunday, June 6, 2021. After fifteen months, from March 15, 2020 to June h 66, 2021, of being away from traditional worship, St. John AME Church carefully opened the ssanctuary to the congregation. It was a very spirit-filled service. The fifty attendees were thrilled tto be back in worship with other members and to be able to sing, pray, and praise together. The sservice was still livestreamed for others to view.

It was a blessing to see the traditional elements related to worship in the sanctuary that had not been seen during the fifteen months of online worship. The choir members, though limited, n were in the choir stand. The pulpit was occupied by the ministerial staff. The stewardesses were w dressed and attended the dressed altar. The stewards and ushers were in their traditional black d aattire for first Sunday.

The Reverend Maurice Wright II preached a fitting sermon, “Don’t Stop Looking for It,” Faith, that is. The sermon was based on the Old Testament scripture of Hebrews 11:1-3 regarding faith. t He H left the congregation with three points to consider in the matter of faith: ...continued on p5

THOU SHALL NOT BE A THUG

- PART 1

Rev. Joseph Parker, 8th Episcopal District

The young man, it appears, was straining his mind to try to remember them all. He had stated some of the Ten Commandments – “ thou shall not steal, thou shall not commit adultery, thou shall not lie, …”.

However, it appeared that the others just weren’t coming to mind. He then stated very energetically “thou shall not be a thug!”

I was not attempting to be rude, but that one caught me off guard. I laughed at that one. I’m not sure how loud, but that stated commandment had me really laughing.

“No, that’s not one of the Ten Commandments. It sounds like a good commandment, but its not one of the Ten.” Well, this young man did not win a Ten Commandments t–shirt that day.

However, I do believe that before the program was over, he was ...continued on p5

United Methodist Church Transfers a Multi-Million Dollar Property to the AME Church in the Philadelphia Conference – for One Dollar… p4

The Historic Vernon AME Church Resurgence from the Riot Ruins… p10

THE RIGHT ANSWER BUT STILL WRONG: A MEDITATION ON THE PARABLE OF THE GOOD SAMARITAN

By Rev. M. JoDavid Sales, Ph.D., Contributing Writer

Pandemic Graduates Deserve An Extra Round Of Applause… p15

We can give the right answer and still be “wrong.”

Such is one of the many profound lessons in the S sstory surrounding the Good Samaritan. When Jesus aasked the lawyer to summarize the most important ccommandments, the lawyer provided the right aanswer: “Love God and our love neighbor with all we have.” That’s the right answer. But the lawyer w wanted a loophole. (We often want loopholes.) The w llawyer desired freedom from the burden of God’s llove. And the burden of God’s love is the burden of compassionate kindness (mercy) and ...continued on p2 c

Exhale -- Meditations for Healing the Heart of a Woman… p20

Why the Democrats Need Joe Manchin …

p23

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...From The Right p1

a thirst for right relationship (justice). So, Jesus stopped the theoretical exercise of what it means to love our neighbor. Jesus stops our appeals to disingenuous and oppressive theologies that vindicate us and our malice, and he told a parable that forces us to consider our motives and the true stakes of God’s love. Often, the priest and Levite are contrasted with the Samaritan—for good reason. However, I would suggest, that if we want to understand our world today—a world of increasing wealth inequality, health disparities, and climate change—then perhaps we should contrast the mercy of the robbers with that of the Samaritan.

We know the motivation of the robbers. They wanted the victim’s possessions. But here is something that is easy to miss. The robbers could have killed this man.

But they did not. They had the power to kill but they didn’t. That’s a form of the world’s—the oppressor’s—“mercy.” It’s a faint comparison to God’s mercy because this mercy must commit death/or threaten violence in order to show it was lenient. It’s the kind of mercy that says “be thankful I didn’t take all your lunch money.”

It’s the mercy that says, “Be thankful I only gave you one black eye. I could have given you two.” It’s the mercy that says, “Be grateful we suspended payments and interest on student loans, so we don’t need to think about fixing the underlying issues.” Routinely, this is the world’s “mercy.” It’s Pilate saying Jesus is innocent while simultaneously flogging and gouging out Jesus’ back. And Pilate says to the leaders in Jerusalem, “See how merciful I am! Instead of killing this innocent man like you want, I’ll simply torture him!”

This is the world’s mercy. That is the oppressor’s mercy. When we think about how the issues of our time are being tackled (or not) by those in power—from climate change to gun violence to student loan debt to the pandemic—we often see this brand of mercy as what passes for “compassion.” This mercy is not concerned so much about what’s good and what’s sustainable. This mercy is really only concerned about lesser evils (the status quo) and not about what’s compassionate or right.

And this emaciated “mercy” carries a lot of weight in our world, even in the church. Too often, it’s equated with “common sense” and “wisdom.” Unfortunately and idolatrously, many believers equate this kind of mercy with God’s mercy—as if the mercy of God is merely the suspension of violence.. But just because it’s so familiar and so seemingly right doesn’t make it right. We can have what appears to be the right answer and still be wrong. How many times do we in the church and in our wider society settle for “lesser evil” solutions, even though they are really just bad solutions fronting like wisdom?

The Samaritan exemplifies God’s mercy. God’s mercy is a reflection of God’s love. The mercy of God is concerned with the greater and greatest good, not simply lesser evils. The Samaritan was not content with simply the survival of the man who was robbed. He wanted the man to be whole and fully recovered. The Samaritan’s mercy was not satisfied with lesser evils. He desired the situation to be transformed. He desired the man to be made well. His love demanded that the robbed man should sleep in a bed that night instead of a ditch on a winding road. The Samaritan didn’t balk at the preexisting condition of the man’s injuries and administered health care, free of charge. He didn’t hide behind “law and order” to veil his disdain and fear. He had compassion on the stranger. God charges us as a church and as a people to aspire for the greater good not the lesser evil.

God has compassion on us when we are estranged from God. Whether it be pain, misery, death, illness, oppression, sin, and/or absurdity—whatever keeps us estranged from God, whatever makes us strangers to God—God seeks to overcome those boundaries. That’s God’s mercy. That’s what salvation is: God’s consistent and ongoing will to overcome the multiple boundaries that separate us from God and each other. And that’s what God’s love is: a compassionate force of goodness that draws us together, rights wrongs, shatters empty justifications, and gives us life right now and in the age to come.

And so Jesus says, “Go and do likewise.” ❏ ❏ ❏ THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER: The Christian Recorder (ISSN 1050-6039, USPS 16880) is the ofϐicial organ of the African Methodist Episcopal Church and a member of the Associated Church Press and the National Newspaper Publishers Association. Founded in 1852, it is printed monthly by the AMEC Sunday School Union, 1722 Scovel Street, Nashville, TN 37208. Periodicals Postage Paid at Nashville, TN. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to The Christian Recorder, 1722 Scovel Street, Nashville, TN 37208. Subscription price is $36 per year. Single issues are $3.25.

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...From Turner Chapel p1 elderly/disabled independent group home. She was instrumental in acquiring

the properties adjacent to the church originally owned by Walter and Virginia Falls; their daughter Mrs. Gurnee Falls Crockerham, 97 years old who grew up in Turner Chapel but resides in Flint, M Michigan, after speaking with pastor via telephone gave her the property.

I can tell you grass does not grow under our pastor’s feet. She is on the move, and nothing stops her, not even the pandemic. Improvements are m being made inside our building, and the roof is on her list. Her visions b have been one for the record books, and we feel very blessed that God h ssaw fit to have our bishop assign her as our shepherd.

From March 4th, through May 20th, 2021, Turner has distributed $$478,849.00 which is 16,168 boxes of food where the community driveby on one side of the street and pastors of local churches drive-by on the b opposite side of the same street to pick up food for their church members and/or communities.

Needless to say, we never have enough to serve everyone. Turner Chapel AME has become known once again for assisting the local community. Rev. Dr. Crenshaw gained assistance from Mayor Carolyn McAdams who supplied equipment and manpower to assist weekly with our distribution. Sheriff Rickey Banks and Deputy Tyrone Banks also provided manpower to help load trucks, vans, U-Hauls, and trailers for other churches or communities with whom we share. God allowed us to become a community of one in teamwork for the good of all people. The Turner Church family gives thanks to the city and county officials for their dedication in assisting us in our endeavors to reach out to community in this COVID-19 PANDEMIC. On November 15, 2019, Bishop Julius Harrison McAllister, Sr., presiding prelate of the 8th Episcopal District, sent us the first female pastor in 130 years, the Rev. Dr. Alice Hubbard Crenshaw. Praise God From Whom ALL Blessings Flow! ❏ ❏ ❏

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UNITED METHODIST CHURCH TRANSFERS A MULTI-MILLION DOLLAR PROPERTY TO THE AME CHURCH IN THE PHILADELPHIA CONFERENCE – FOR ONE DOLLAR

By Angelena Spears, 1st Episcopal District

On Monday, June 5, 2021 a historic transfer of property took place in the Philadelphia Conference of the AME Church. The St. John AME Church of Wayne, PA, received the keys to the multi-million dollar Radnor United Methodist Church building for the meager price of one dollar.

The Radnor Church was founded in 1788. The current edifice was constructed in 1833. The building is beautifully maintained.

It seats approximately 300 persons and has two annexes that can be used as fellowship space and meeting rooms. There is also a historic cemetery on the church property with graves of soldiers of the Revolutionary and Civil Wars.

The transfer of the property also comes with two endowments totaling $500,000 – one is for any future e repairs needed to the church building and the other is to re help h maintain the historic cemetery.

The service of Transfer and Dedication was attended by Bishop Gregory G.M. Ingram, the presiding prelate of the B First Episcopal District, the Rev. Dr. Charles H. Lett, Sr., the F presiding elder of the West Mainline District where the church is located, and the Rev. Dr. p Manuel A. Howard, the pastor of St. John AME Church and the new pastor of the added M facility. fa United Methodist officials in attendance included Bishop Peggy A. Johnson, the presiding bishop of the Eastern PA and Peninsula Delaware Conference of the United Methodist b Church, and the Rev. Evelyn Kent Clark, the superintendent of the South District of the C Eastern PA Conference of the United Methodist Church. The Radnor Church’s current E pastor, the Rev. Michael Johnson, and its former pastor of 10 years, the Rev. Lemuel “Jack” p Ross, Jr., were also program participants.

R Others present included members of the Philadelphia Conference Board of Trustees, FR L-R: Wanda Cook of St. John, Bishop Ingram, Bishop Johnson, and Elder Lett. BR L-R: Supervisor Evelyn Clark, members of both the Wayne and Radnor churches, and the Rev. Larry Dickens, the executive the Rev. David Tatgenhorst of St. Luke UMC in Bryn director of the Pennsylvania Council of Churches.

Mawr, Dr. Howard, the Rev. Johnson and Rev. Cavaness.

The Radnor Church was founded in 1780, just seven years prior to the year Richard Allen purchased his freedom from slavery. Records show that Richard Allen stayed near the p Radnor Church and was welcomed to preach to the predominantly white congregation. In R his h writings, Richard Allen says: In the year 1784 I left East Jersey and laboured in Pennsylvania. I walked until my feet became so sore and blistered. I found the people very humane and kind in Pennsylvania. I having but little money, I stopped at Cesar Wateris, at Radnor township, twelve miles from Philadelphia. I found him and his wife very kind and affectionate to me. In the evening they asked me if I would come and take tea with them; but after sitting awhile, my feet became so sore and painful that I could scarcely be able to put them to the floor. Never was I more kindly received by strangers that I had never before seen, than by them. She bathed my feet with warm water and bran; the next morning my feet were better and free from pain.

Richard Allen goes on to say that the couple asked him to stay until the Sabbath and preach, which he did. He noted that he ended up staying several weeks at their urging. And says, w I labored in Radnor several weeks. Many souls were awakened, and cried aloud to the Lord to have mercy upon them. I was frequently called upon by many inquiring what they Leaders from the AME and UM churches hold hands in a should do to be saved. I appointed them to prayer and supplication at the throne of grace, prayer circle before the service begins. and to make use of all manner of prayer, and pointed them to the invitation of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.

There is a prominent portrait of Richard Allen that hangs in the church fellowship hall as well as other artifacts from the church’s early years. w During the ceremony, Bishop Gregory Ingram recalled Richard Allen’s connection to the Radnor Church and marveled that “200 years later, we stand on these sacred grounds.” He R ssaid the transfer of the property was proof that we are not without hope. Instead, despite all the things that are happening in our world today, this day renews our faith and shows the th world that all is not lost. He thanked Bishop Peggy Johnson and said he looked forward to w what the future will hold. w During the Declaration of the Transfer, Bishop Johnson noted, “Today we stand on Holy gground to make sure God is honored and glorified.” She expounded on the spirit within the service when she said, “Can you feel the cloud of witnesses of the 1700s? They are here th -- Richard Allen and the people called Methodists. Only God could have done this.”

BACKGROUND TO THE TRANSFER B

L-R: The Rev. Jack Ross, the former pastor of the Radnor Church, places key in hand of Dr. Manuel Howard as The Saint John AME Church, with a membership of 23 members including adults and Presiding Elder Charles Lett observes. children, is located approximately five miles from the Radnor Church, ...continued on p5

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...From St. John AME p1

1. God is in the business of restoring things in the Christians’ life, if they have faith.

2. God will set believers as a precedence. If one has faith, one is a priority to God. 3. Faith has believers making plans for the future.

The worship service was followed with Holy Communion on this the opening of the sanctuary after fifteen months of the Coronavirus epidemic. The service closed with prayer and thanksgiving. “Praise God From Whom All Blessings Flow” was the closing song, sung this time with thanksgiving for bringing them through a serious and devastating pandemic. To God be the glory, great things he has done and is still doing. Amen. ❏ ❏ ❏ ...From Thou Shall p1

one of a number of youth that attended the community center activity that did win one.

How did he and other youth win a Ten Commandments t – shirt? By memorizing and reciting the Ten Commandments out loud before their peers.

Thus, my wife Birdie and I had one more day of adventure as we shared video clips that shared instances of people who violated one or more of the Ten Commandments. We both taught the youth the meaning of each commandment and gave them opportunity to interact and discuss the issues and matters that came up in our discussions.

The Ten Commandments project has been operating for more than three years and has yielded much fruit. During our sessions, we invite the youth

to receive Christ as their Lord and Savior. And we teach the youth the importance of becoming a student of the Word of God. We teach the importance of reading the Word of God every day. We also suggest the youth start the habit of reading at least three chapters in their Bible every day.

Specifically, we encourage the youth to memorize the Ten Commandments, and we teach them to live them daily.

Why is this critical? Why is this an important goal for a local church to pursue. Why should the church make this kind of youth discipleship project a priority?

Allow me to share why.

There was a tragic incident in a large city, when a young teen took something from a store and hurried

out the door. A worker in the store stepped out of the store and shot the youth. And the youth died.

Now the person who shot him did get arrested.

However, the young man died. And there is nothing a person can steal that is worth dying for.

Had a parent, or a Sunday School teacher, or a pastor taught that young man the Ten Commandments, the seed of the Word of God probably would have saved this youth’s life.

The seed of the Ten Commandments invested in the young man may have led him to realize, “This isn’t mine. I don’t need to steal it.”

Part one of a two-part article Pastor Joseph Parker Bethlehem AME Church Winona, MS ❏ ❏ ❏

...From United Methodist p4 whose membership over the last few years had dwindled to less than 15

members.

Over the years, the two congregations had gathered occasionally for joint worship services and participated jointly in community events.

Dr. Howard, who has been the pastor of St. John since 2017, says that he and Radnor’s former pastor, the Rev. Jack Ross, had developed a very good community relationship. Dr. Howard says that the Lord put it in both of their spirits to begin to have combined worship services – that fused the AME and UM worship traditions.

Although a determination has not been made regarding the future of the Wayne Church building, Dr. Howard says they would like for it to remain a historical building. For now, they will minister as one church with two locations.

He noted that the two locations have very different demographics and the added campus offers During dedication ceremony. Bishop Gregory Ingram tremendous ministry opportunities. “I’ve been praying the Prayer of Jabaz,” says Dr. Howard. is in forefront of picture, next to UM Bishop Peggy Johnson and Dr. Manuel Howard.

“Although our current church is small, it has been so amazing how God has used us. Jesus changed the world with 12 people, so why can’t we? We are believing God for a harvest of laborers.”

Both Elder Lett and Bishop Ingram thanked the Rev. Carolyn Cavaness, the pastor of Bethel AMEC in nearby Bryn Mawr for her administrative skills – noting she had done key work behind the scenes leading up to the day’s event.

Elder Lett noted the newly acquired property offers many opportunities for the district’s churches. There is a large fellowship hall, a state-of-the-art kitchen, and a full blown exercise room.

He said he is looking forward to the district being able to hold its district meetings and Christmas parties at the Radnor location.

In his closing remarks, Bishop Ingram said that he would remember the day for the rest of his life. “There is a magnanimous spirit here today,” he said. Bishop Ingram told Dr. Howard that he and Dr. Jessica Ingram (the Episcopal supervisor) were praying for him. He told him, “Dr. Howard, you can expect big things from a big God. And as I retire, I am looking forward to hearing good reports about Radnor, from Presiding Elder Lett.” ❏ ❏ ❏

This picture of Richard Allen on horseback has hung in the Radnor Church since the 1800’s.

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ECUMENICALNEWS

PRESIDING BISHOP ANNOUNCES NEW CHURCHWIDE RACIAL TRUTH AND RECONCILIATION EFFORT DURING FIRST DAY OF EXECUTIVE COUNCIL

By Egan Millard, Episcopal News Service

[Episcopal News Service] The Episcopal Church Executive Council began its June meeting with discussions on how racism is being confronted within and beyond the church, including the creation of a new working group that will be tasked with expanding the church’s ongoing antiracism and reconciliation efforts.

Executive Council, a body of elected lay and clergy church representatives that serves as the church’s governing body between meetings of General Convention, is meeting virtually June 25-28. It is chaired by Presiding Bishop Michael Curry, who opened the meeting by announcing that he and the Rev. Gay Clark Jennings, president of the House of Deputies and vice-chair of Executive Council, are forming a working group on truth and reconciliation for the entire Episcopal Church.

The new working group is not intended to replace the church’s existing efforts on telling the truth about its complicity in racism and dismantling the structures that perpetuate it, but The opening plenary session of Executive Council on June 25, 2021. to build on those efforts and extend them to every corner of the church. of the church will not automatically correct the manifestations of structural “Many dioceses have already done this,” Curry said in his opening remarks. racism that exists at General Convention, but I hope that more diverse legislative “Many congregations and schools and seminaries have done this – not all, but many committee leadership and membership helps us make inroads in eradicating some have. But now [we have the chance] to do this work of truth and reconciliation…” at of the injustice identified by the audit.” the churchwide level “in all of the countries where we are located. To my knowledge, The audit’s 72-page report sheds light on nine dominant patterns of racism that this has not been done before. were identified during interviews with 1,300 leaders, including bishops, deputies, “This is an invitation, and an opportunity to do the hard and holy work of love. council members, churchwide staff members, and diocesan leaders. The full report This is an opportunity to do and to model … for the societies in which we live, was released to the church in April. what we must do to save our souls from the evils of racism, the evils of supremacy Facilitators from the Mission Institute, which conducted the audit, presented of anybody over anybody else.” their conclusions to Executive Council during the Opening Plenary Session, the The working group, Curry said, will be composed of bishops and deputies, some first time the results had been presented to the full council. Members were given of whom currently serve on the Executive Council Committee on Anti-Racism and the opportunity for questions and comments on the audit’s findings. Among them Reconciliation and the Presiding Officers’ Advisory Group on Beloved Community were the lack of access to power that people of color experience in the church and Implementation. The group will be asked to develop proposals for the 80th General the stress they experience from being held to unreasonable expectations, feeling Convention, scheduled for July 2022 in Baltimore, Maryland “that will foster and invisible or hypervisible. Members will further discuss their reactions to the report facilitate the convention’s adoption of a plan and pathway for a process of truth and in committee meetings over the weekend. reconciliation in the Episcopal Church,” Curry said.

Jennings also asked the Joint Standing Committee for Mission Within the The proposal will include ways to “tell the truth about our collective racial and Episcopal Church to review the work that the church has done on reducing ethnic history and present realities, to reckon with our church’s historic and current greenhouse gas emissions and draft a resolution for Executive Council to refer to complicity with racial injustice, make commitments to right old wrongs and repair General Convention for further action. breaches, and discern a vision for healing and reconciliation,” Curry said. To do “Just as the truth and reconciliation initiative must enlist the church at all levels, that, the group will conduct a review of past and present truth and reconciliation working toward eliminating our carbon footprint will require a broad grassroots processes within the Episcopal Church, the Anglican Communion, and in the initiative,” she said. countries where those churches are present, such as South Africa, Rwanda, and Other topics scheduled to be addressed during the meeting’s livestreamed New Zealand. plenary sessions include recommendations for how the church can engage in The group will convene in September 2021 and be asked to submit proposed deradicalization, which came up at Executive Council’s meeting in late January in General Convention resolutions by March 2022, including proposed budgets for the wake of the Jan. 6 insurrection on the U.S. Capitol, during which attackers wore the actions it recommends. and carried Christian imagery and white supremacist symbols. At that meeting, “This working group will have the opportunity to propose the creation of truth Executive Council voted to ask the church’s Office of Government Relations and and reconciliation opportunities that can inspire the energy, prayers, and initiatives Office for Ecumenical and Interreligious Relations “to develop a plan for the of deputies and bishops from across the church while we are in Baltimore,” Jennings Episcopal Church’s holistic response to Christian nationalism and violent white added. “I pray that the Holy Spirit will move among us and bring us closer to supremacy.” telling the painful truths with which we must reckon before we can become fully Council also received a budget report from Kurt Barnes, the church’s treasurer the church.” and chief financial officer, who said that both income and spending are on track Jennings referenced the Racial Justice Audit of Episcopal Leadership, saying with the budget, though that does not yet include the distribution of diocesan relief that progress is being made toward including more people of color in the church’s grants. The church’s reserves and investment portfolio remain strong, he said. governing bodies.

During the afternoon plenary session, leaders from the Diocese of North Texas, “We’ve made significant efforts to ensure that people of color are leaders on formerly the Diocese of Fort Worth, talked about the diocese’ 12-year legal battle committees addressing all areas of the church’s mission,” Jennings said. “For with the Anglican Church in North America and its ongoing threat to the Episcopal example, at [the 2022] convention, half of the deputies on the Joint Standing Church. They also heard a presentation from the Office of Development, which Committee on Program, Budget, and Finance – the powerful committee that builds has formed an advisory committee that is helping it grow in its fundraising. on the work of Executive Council and prepares the final General Convention Egan Millard is an assistant editor and reporter for Episcopal News budget, are people of color.

Service. He can be reached at emillard@episcopalchurch.org.

“Ensuring that House of Deputies legislative committees represent a full diversity

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FIXED ATTRIBUTES BUT FLEXIBLE INTENTIONS: FOLLOWING GOD’S EVER-CHANGING DIRECTIONS

By Rev. Dr. Joseph Curry, Columnist

An “attribute” refers to something that has been attributed to God. For example, we may speak of God as forgiving, loving, and merciful based on the authority of God’s Word or based on our experiences with God’s presence in our lives. Throughout scripture, God is identified as loving in 1 John 4:8, forgiving in Colossians 3:13, or faithful in 2 Timothy 2:13, and these attributes have helped to sustain Christian communities for generations. Many Christians, theologians, and laity have affirmed over the centuries that the attributes of God will never change. However, scripture often reveals and our experiences as well as discerning prayer lives often confirm that God’s intentions for our lives may change. For example, the prophet Isaiah told king Hezekiah that he would die (2 Kings 20:1); however, Hezekiah prayed to the Lord, and the Lord extended his life by 15 years (2 Kings 20:6). Theologians and laity have often confirmed that you and I often pray because we want God to change or influence God’s intentions for our lives.

By faith, we believe that if God intervenes in our lives the outcome that is achieved will be in our favor. Our belief in the power of God as expressed through prayer is summed-up in the popular expression: “Prayer changes things!”

Based on my experiences in the ministry and my assessment of God’s presence in my life, I have discovered that during periods of confusion, despair, tragedy, and perceived hopelessness, we sometimes confuse God’s attributes with God’s intentions. In short, we mistakenly confuse or perhaps “reverse” God’s attributes as they concern God’s intentions.

For example, we mistakenly believe that God is no longer loving, forgiving, or faithful and we mistakenly believe that the negative circumstances in which we find ourselves will never change. Whenever we arrive at the erroneous conclusion that God’s attributes are flexible and God’s intentions are permanent we necessarily 1) minimize the authority of God’s Word, and 2) limit the influence of an all-powerful (i.e., omnipotent) God. Ultimately, God loves people (see 1 John 4:8-10), and the unconditional love (e.g., the attribute) that God has for people will not change in the midst of our everchanging lives.

As we assume new job responsibilities, live in different cities, meet different people, and engage in the new ministries, God’s intentions for our lives will change. However, God’s attributes will not for “God’s love never fails” (Psalm 136:1). ❏❏❏ ECUMENICALNEWS

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IT WILL WORK IF WE WORK IT

By Rev. Damon Mitchell, 4th Episcopal District

While the world is evolving at the speed of light, the church is often challenged to change its structure and approaches to ensure we “serve the present age.” Yet, some parts of our current structure position us for growth, that is, if we utilized them.

Scripture is crystal clear. “He called some pastors” (Ephe 4:11). Our founders understood this sacred text and created two tracks to ordained ministry: local and itinerant. Simply, some are called to serve as pastors while others, to serve with pastors. All are not the same. Just as all should/could not serve as bishops or stewards, all should not serve as pastors!

Yet, due to clergy shortages, local ministers are often encouraged, and in some cases, pushed into the itinerant ministry. Bad idea!

This action ignores what God spoke to the minister, ignores what the Discipline clearly allows, is short sighted, and has the potential to harm the candidate or congregation to which he or she is given charge. Certainly, bishops, presiding elders and examining boards who encourage local ministers to consider the itinerancy are not trying to dishonor God or harm anyone. In some cases, they may recognize something more for the minister than local orders. However, it has to be the minister’s choice without interference. we can relocate some churches out of the “old strips the local church they were called to serve in According to church researcher and blogger, Sam part of town” that sits on the corner of a dead-end of resources and ministry support while potentially Rainer, the median church size is 75 people. In some street. We need to consider merging small churches, harming the congregation the local now serves as he conferences, a church with 75 regular attendees is but in smarter ways. There are so many things the or she may not have the skills for pastoral service. a leading church. What is my point? It does not Undoubtedly, many local ministers have done make sense to push everyone towards an itinerant Discipline allows that we are not doing. outstanding work in pastoral roles, and they should ministry to pastor 10 people. The real issue is some Certainly, it is hard to hear that some churches be commended. That does not negate the reality that churches should close, merge, rebrand, or relocate. need to close or merge, and even harder to make we must honor God’s will and our own structure.

Some churches are so small that the monthly electric these tough decisions. However, these decisions While many small churches have rich histories that bill exceeds the pastor’s salary. Say that aloud! We are necessary. To whom much is given, much is made our Zion what it is today, if/when we try to are asking people to take out student loans to obtain required. Let us honor our own structure by not avoid the inevitable consequences of reality, we play a M.Div., then assigning them to work that pays persuading ministry candidates to switch from God. Manipulation is witchcraft (1 Sam 15:23). If below the poverty line. That contradicts scripture local to itinerant to maintain a system that needs we continue to manufacture things to maintain the (Luke 10:7). That approach forces pastors to be bito collapse. Instead, let us use our structure to our status quo, we in fact create a cycle of mediocrity vocational, else we assign them to poverty. advantage. Let conference trustees and committees and avoid addressing the actual issues. We need Despite many churches being quite small, they on missions, circuits, and stations work to identify metrics to identify churches “at-risk” of closure so continue to be treated as stations although they which churches need reclassification or closure, that we can proactively close churches, instead of the should be classified as a circuit or mission. As and the conference act accordingly. In doing so, we wait until they die off approach, which only leaves a result, we are pushing locals out of their Godbetter position God’s church for growth. Many parts conferences saddled with liability insurance and anointed, local ministry to go pastor 6 people. of our structure could work to our advantage, that maintenance expenses. By selling some properties, While it helps the four and no more crowd, it is, if we worked it.

The Rev. Damon Mitchell is the pastor of St. Luke AME Church in East St. Louis, Illinois and the vice chair of the Illinois Conference Board of Trustees.

BETHEL AME CHURCH, DALE CITY HOSTS INAUGURAL JUNETEENTH POETRY JAM Bethel AME Church, Dale City, Virginia honored the historic Juneteenth holiday by hosting their inaugural Juneteenth Poetry Jam on Saturday, June 19, 2021.

The event was held via Zoom and streamed live on the church’s Facebook page.

Participants in the poetry jam included Ms. Kim B. Miller, the first African American poet laureate of Prince William County, Virginia, and Dr. Joanne V. Gabbin, executive director and founder of the Furious Flower Poetry Center, the nation’s first academic center for black poetry, located at James Madison University. The international event included poets and attendees from California, Maryland, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, and Delhi, India. Contributors brought original writings and publications, speaking on social activism, offering tributes to a church member’s mother’s 100-year-old hands, and unique and powerful poetic interpretations of, “What Is Black History?”

Prophetically, the church planned and scheduled the poetry jam months before President Joe Biden signed the historic legislation making Juneteenth a federal holiday. Based on the overwhelmingly positive response to the event, the church intends to continue hosting this event in future years. Bethel’s Commission on Membership, Evangelism and Discipleship is fully engaged in a global effort to share Christ’s message of redemption and salvation in ways that reach all audiences.

The poetry jam is an extension of Bethel’s open mic events and is only one example of their outreach. Throughout the pandemic, Bethel AME Church, Dale City maintained a robust virtual presence through worship services and Bible studies using Zoom and other social media, and ongoing community prayer sessions using conference calls. Bethel thrives under the leadership of the pastor, the Reverend Dr. D. Melynda Clarke, of the Second Episcopal District, Washington Conference, Capital District, and the visionary direction of Bishop James L. Davis, presiding prelate, and the Reverend Johnny Calhoun, presiding elder.

A recording of the program can be viewed here: www.facebook.com/ BethelAmeChurchMontclairVA. For more information about the participants, poetry workshops, or to be added to our mailing list for future event announcements, please contact the church at BethelAMEMontclair@gmail.com or visit www. bethelofwoodbridge.org. ❏ ❏ ❏

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THE MISSIONARIES OF EBENEZER, CHARLOTTE HALL DELIVER FOOD BOXES TO THE COMMUNITY

By Barbara Holton and Geraldine June, 2nd Episcopal District

During this first quarter, the missionaries of Ebenezer Charlotte Hall are well pleased with their agreement to join and assist with the USDA delivery of food boxes to the elderly and needy in St. Mary’s County, MD. The program was spearheaded by Bishop Phillip Spence and Dwayne Cooper of the Leonardtown Volunteer Rescue Squad, to deliver 400 boxes of food within the county.

Ebenezer was issued a total of 100 boxes of food to distribute that included chicken, ham slices, pigs in a blanket, potatoes, onions, apples, strawberries, sour cream, cottage cheese, butter, milk, lettuce, tomatoes, and some cookies.

One of our soup kitchen helpers, Mr. David Briscoe, delivered 30 boxes in the name of Ebenezer. He gave of his time to volunteer and help on a cold rainy day in an effort to help someone in need.

The smile on his face told the story of the blessings he received while doing the work of the king; he carries a portable oxygen pack on his side to breathe, but it did not dampen his determination or his intent to assist.

Sister Barbara Holton and I have been collecting leftover school meals from local schools at the end of the day, and redistributing them to the elderly who no longer have the will or want to cook for themselves.

We collect, separate, and divide what we collect and put them in small bags that will last two or three days. The bags consist of small microwavable meals, cereal that can be eaten with or without milk, fruit cups, applesauce, cookies, apples, pears, and some oranges.

Under our care is a member who is showing early signs of dementia. She sometimes forgets to eat and does not want to cook. During her food delivery, while unpacking it, she asked what is this, I said a peanut butter and jelly sandwich.

She tore the bag open and began to eat it while talking about how she used to eat them as a child on biscuits with homemade applesauce, and how good it always was. Now we take extra peanut butter and jelly sandwiches to her, because she wants to share them with her neighbors across the road. She now eats regularly but one thing she said tore us apart, I REMEMBER HOW IT FEELS TO BE HUNGRY. There is still a small child in all of us. Dementia causes the mind to retreat to places where it lives in the past. We thank God for the value found in a peanut butter and jelly sandwich, that reminded her that it was time to eat. In leaving she gives out big hugs and always says, thank you for being my friend. ❏❏❏

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YOU ARE WHO YOU ARE FOR A REASON

By Byron Washington, Columnist

When God formed each of us he provided us with specific characteristics, preferences, and abilities, all of which help us to fulfill our purpose in him.

Additionally, those preferences or abilities are helpful in discerning the will of God when we are making decisions or trying to understand what God is saying in a particular situation.

Preferences are the things that we know work in our favor and work in conjunction with the gifts and talents that God has given us. This is not the same as staying in your comfort zone, this is understanding what arenas you are gifted in and knowing your ability to excel in a specific opportunity.

For example, I had an opportunity a number of years ago to work overseas; there was a choice between two countries. One of the options provided housing and said I would be doing research and reporting work. The other option provided a larger stipend, but I would have to secure my own housing and the work was mostly finance work.

I prefer to have travel plans in order before I arrive in a country and to know exactly where I am staying (this is based on past experiences). I have done finance work in the past. It is not something that I seek to do; I will do it; however, it is not my preference.

The blessing of Jehovah, it maketh rich; And he addeth no sorrow therewith – Proverbs 10:22 (ASV).

I selected the first option; it worked out great and was an amazing experience. I am not suggesting that you will always have the benefit of everything being the way you want it. That being said, understanding how God has wired and formed you is helpful in discerning the will of God for your life.

People often discredit how God formed them. So they end up accepting jobs, responsibilities, or being a part of things that end up wasting their time, stress them out, and frustrate them because it does not connect to how God formed them.

My family and I travel all over the world, and every few years move to a new country. That level of ambiguity and change would not work for some people and that is ok. Be who God made you to be, some of the choices placed in front of you are more easily discerned if you are honest, you do not like working remotely, or you do better on a team, or you prefer limited travel or dislike traveling all together.

All of those things (with valid reasons) are helpful when making choices. It is not foolproof and it does not mean that God may not lead you in a way opposite of what you desire; however, it is often a good starting point (conjoined with prayer) for assessing the options that are in front of you. ❏ ❏ ❏

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THE HISTORIC VERNON AME CHURCH RESURGENCE FROM THE RIOT RUINS

By Margaret Bush Ware, 5th Episcopal District

In 2018, the Historic Vernon AME Church in Tulsa, Oklahoma was placed on the National Register T of Historic Places by the United States Department o of the Interior. It is recognized as the only structure o ((basement) left of the Historic Black Wall Street Massacre. I returned to my home church for the 100-year M ccommemoration on May 30th and 31st. Remembering the t hallowed walls of Vernon was by itself emotional.

Knowing that more than 300 lives were lost during the K Decades Old Neon Original Moniker. horrific race riot of 1921 made me tremble each time a Historic Vernon AME h Sign. speaker spoke in honor of those that were murdered in Church, Tulsa, OK. s the t Greenwood District.

Hats off to the Rev. Dr. Robert Richard Allen Turner (pastor of Vernon AME) for making each day special for those that attended.

A photo display had framed pictures of the members of VAME that were survivors of the massacre. I knew Mrs. Ernestine Gibbs and Mr. Robert Fairchild when I was a child. Also included in the photographic tribute were John R. Emerson, Sr.; Mrs. Eurice and Mr. S. M. Jackson; Lucille Figures; Dr. R. T. Bridgewater; Olivia J. Hooker, and Maggie Bell Williams Hamel.

The Church interior had all the shades and hues of the color spectrum represented in the newly installed and restored stained glass windows with donor identity. These stunning windows continue to dazzle the mind and the eye after 1921 Vernon Members Race Riot Survivors. more than 70 years of my seeing them.

Sunday, May 30th, the church was filled with dignitaries including national legislatures (Congresswoman Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-DE), Congressman James Clyburn (D-SC); and local government officials; Episcopal leaders…the Rt. Rev. Harry Seawright (9th Episcopal District), and the Rt. Rev. Michael Mitchell (12th Episcopal District), along with familiar faces from the past. The Holy Spirit filled the sanctuary through musical selections beginning with Vernon’s “Praise and Worship” team, gospel singer Darius Brooks and Santita Jackson, daughter of civil rights leader Rev. Jesse Jackson, Sr. Reverend Turner’s sermon was titled, “Lest We Forget!” which was apropos considering the 100 years that had almost been forgotten.

Reverend Jesse Jackson made sure the offering goal was met by encouraging donors to be generous with their donations. The generosity of the attendees far exceeded their expectations. Donations will be used for the renewal and continued rebuilding of the historical church. Service ended with all in attendance joining hands singing, “We Shall Overcome.”

Vernon AME Church Stained Glass Windows.

Monday, the 31st, singer Phena Hackett offered a soul-stirring rendition of “I Want Jesus to Walk With Me,” prior to the Rt. Rev. Michael Leon Mitchell preaching from the topic “Now Is Not the Time for America to Forget!” Although rarely mentioned in textbooks (I was never taught there was a race riot when I attended the Tulsa public schools), there is no question that the Tulsa Race Massacre was one of the most horrific incidents of racial violence in American history. Bishop Mitchell paraphrased the words from James Weldon Johnson’s, “Lift Every Voice and Sing,” by saying “we must remember what God has brought us through!”

When the service was over the entire congregation moved outside to the south side of the church for the “Prayer Wall for Racial Healing” dedication service. The basement of The Rev. Turner, Songstress Congressman Congresswoman Rev. Jackson, Santita James Clyburn, Lisa Rochester, Vernon AME Church was the only building left standing after the riot. Survivors hid in D-SC Jackson.

D-DE. the rooms of the basement to avoid being killed. The Rev. Turner chose to create the Prayer Bishop Mitchell.

Wall on the basement bricks as a place for all people to come and pray.

Representatives from every faith participated by offering prayers in their native language/tongue, including leaders of the local Episcopal Church; the Tulsa Archdiocese; the Missionary Baptist Church; the Anglican Church; a Buddhist chant was led by two members of the Soka Gakkai International-USA. It was inspiring to participate with the hundreds in attendance chanting “Nam-myoho-range-kyo.” A Cherokee Nation representative chanted a prayer and Rabbi Fisherman from a local synagogue offered a prayer and song in Hebrew. The president of the AME Church Bishops’ Council, the Rt. Rev. Michael Mitchell, prayed; the Rev. William Barber II, co-chair of the Poor Peoples Campaign, prayed as well; and the Reverend Jesse L. Jackson, Sr., founder of the Rainbow/PUSH Coalition, prayed the final prayer.

Members of Congress represented by Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-DE); Barbara Pages were soiled from moisture and badly Bishop The Rev. Lee (D-CA); and Senator Chris Coons (D-DE) placed a wreath at the Prayer damaged. Sarah Stitt, wife of Governor Michael Mitchell. Robert Turner.

Wall. Photo ops were allowed for attendees.

Kevin Stitt (R-OK), was responsible for introducing the Rev. Turner to the “Museum Participants re-entered the sanctuary for the unveiling of the “Book of of the Bible.” They performed the six-month task of restoring this historic relic Redemption.” The book was discovered in a storage box in the basement of of the church.

Vernon after almost one hundred years. It contained the names and amount of pledges/donations made by members of the church to rebuild after the massacre.

On a walking tour of the area, the Greenwood Cultural ...continued on p12

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FREDERICK DOUGLASS MEMORIAL COMMUNITY PARK, PORT TAMPA

By Diane Egner, 83 Degrees Media

The senior bishop of the AME (African Methodist Episcopal) Church worldwide, the Rt. Rev. Adam Jefferson Richardson, Jr., stopped by Port Tampa on Saturday to break ground on a new park and playground where the historic Frederick Douglass Negro School once stood.

The consecration and groundbreaking ceremony took place across the street from the historic Mt. Zion (Port Tampa) AME Church at 7401 S. Kissimmee St., where Richardson’s father once served as the pastor.

Richardson, a graduate of Florida A&M University who received the Master of Divinity degree from the Turner Theological Seminary at the Interdenominational Theological Center (ITC) in Atlanta and the Doctor of Sacred Theology degree at the ITC through the Atlanta Theological Association, told church members and friends who gathered for the service that he remembers well growing up in the neighborhood that provided the The historic Mt. Zion (Port Tampa) AME foundation for his global service today.

Church opened in 1889.

Church members are planning an anniversary celebration this summer for the 132-year-old church in Port Tampa.

The Rt. Rev. Adam Jefferson Richardson Jr., senior The original foundation and bricks from the bishop of AME Church worldwide, Episcopal, historic Frederick Douglass Negro School prepares to break ground at the new Frederick are visible at the future park site.

Douglass Memorial Community Park in Port Tampa.

Tampa architect Jerel McCants is lending his expertise to the design of the park and a community center across the street next to the Mt. Zion AME Church.

Rodney Kite Powell from the Tampa Bay Ocea Wynn, administrator of Neighborhood Sister Diane Jones speaks at the History Center consults with the Rev. James and Community Affairs, talks about the city of groundbreaking for the new Frederick T. Golden about the upcoming park.

Tampa’s commitment to seeing the Frederick Douglass park in Port Tampa.

Douglass Memorial Community Park thrive.

The church’s current pastor, the Rev. James T. Golden, led the service, which marks the continuation of an effort to build a community center next to the 132-year-old church and open a unique park and playground for neighborhood children.

Church members are busy planning an anniversary celebration in June and are A favorite hymn portending the future Church calendar from October 2019 The Rev. James T. Golden gathering community support of the church’s efforts to build a new before COVID temporarily shut addresses a Sunday School class. for honoring and preserving community center and park for the Port down regular services.

Tampa neighborhood. the history of the working-class neighborhood that was once Tampa architect Jerel McCants is lending his Clara Glenn, president of the Frederick Douglass Negro home to Port workers in the late 1800s up until recent expertise to design the park and playground as well School Alumni Association, were in attendance. years when new homes and apartments began to dominate as the community center. McCants, Yvette Lewis, For more information and to make a donation, the landscape. president of the Hillsborough County NAACP, and visit the Mt. Zion AME Church Port Tampa website.

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...From The Historic p10

Center is directly across the street from Historic Vernon AME. Inside was the Shirley & Bernard Kinsey Family Collection (they are members of First AME, Los Angeles). The collection includes memorabilia from May 31st and June 1st, 1921, along with items from their personal collection of African American artifacts.

On the grounds of Vernon there is a sign from the Community Remembrance Project detailing the 1921 Tulsa Race Prayer Wall for Racial Massacre. There is Healing.

Buddhist Leading Chant. The Rev. Wilalso a mural, which liam Barber II. stands across the street from the Greenwood Cultural Center, and adjacent to Vernon AME. The mural was created by artist Michael Rosato depicting the race riot.

Directly across the street from the church is the “Black Wall Street” Book of Redemption and Pages Margaret Bush Ware mural painted by artist Donald Showing Vernon AME Church Praying at the Prayer Wall.

“Scribe” Ross. Taking a photo of Member Pledges and Payments.

Vernon from a distance, one can see the V difference in the basement brick color and d those bricks that were used to build the th eedifice after the riot. It was pointed out during the Prayer Wall dedication that the d still hold the smell of smoke from b The Greenwood Cultural Center Exhibits and bricks the fire of the massacre.

Photographs from the 1921 Race Riot.

The only buildings left on Greenwood are those leading from Archer to the highway overpass. That area used to be called “Deep Greenwood.” Vernon AME Church stands alone in an area that was once a thriving economy and community of hard working African American citizens of Tulsa. Returning to my birthplace to commemorate 100 years of pride in Black

1921 Tulsa Massacre Sign.

Black Wall Street Mural Description.

Mural Greenwood Avenue Building.

Corner of Greenwood Archer.

Wall Street was an honor and tribute to our ancestors and the stormy road they trod. Daddy Ben and Auntie Black Wall Street Black Wall Street Mommie would 1921 Tulsa Massacre Mural.

Mural.

Mural. be proud!

(Rev. Benjamin Harrison Hill and First Lady Fannie Ezell Johnson Hill were the pastoral leaders of Vernon AME Church when I attended.)

The church continued the 1921 Centennial Commemoration with a “God of Our Weary Years” revival. Participants included Dr. Jamal H. Bryant; Dr. Otis Moss III; Pastor Mathew Watley; Bishop Vashti Murphy-McKenzie; and the Rev. Dr. Toni Belin-Ingram. To God be the glory!

Vernon Twotoned Brick.

Margaret Bush Ware was born and raised in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Her grandfather, Henry Ware, owned and operated “Ware’s Fruit & Confectionery” on Greenwood Avenue. He was also a Trustee at Vernon AME Church. Margaret currently serves as Chair of the Winnie Lumpkin Unit of the Sarah Allen WMS at First AME Church, Los Angeles.

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I REFUSE TO SINK

By Rev. Barry Settle, Contributing Writer

Peter answered him, “Lord, if it is you, command me to come to you on the water.” He said, “Come.” So Peter got out of the boat, started walking on the water, and came toward Jesus. But when he noticed the strong wind, he became frightened, and beginning to sink, he cried out, “Lord, save me!” (Matthew 14:28-30 NRSV) There is a quote from an unknown source that says, “Ships don’t sink because of the water around them; ships sink because of the water that gets in them. Don’t let what’s happening around you get inside you and weight you down.”

This makes good sense, both practically and theologically.

Practically, for ships (or boats) to sink, the water that gets inside takes over its substance, causing the weight of the vessel to become heavier than the pressure that is keeping it afloat. An object floats if the downward force is less than the upward force. A boat sinks when water gets inside if the downward force is greater than the upward force. Theologically, when we allow the trouble, trauma, and trials of our life to get inside of us, if we are not careful, we too could sink on our faith journey. I have felt the tremendous weight that we have all been through over the last 14 months; and this weight piled on top of the weight we were already carrying. Let us take caution not to allow the weights of life to outweigh our faith, because once the weights of this world become heavier than our faith, like the ship or boat that allows too much water inside, you will begin to sink.

What is liberating, as we reflect on all of this, is that it is almost impossible for a boat to be in the water in a storm, and not get water in the boat. When a boat is in a storm, we would not consider the captain of the boat incompetent because he/she failed to navigate in the boat without water getting inside. This is what is liberating, because it acknowledges that weights from our life, experiences, and the world, affect us, but can’t sink us. They shake us up, cause distress, and have the ability to overwhelm us.

However, our personal testimony is no matter the weights from our life, let us have the resolve that we refuse to sink.

As always, Jesus is our focus. However, it is Peter who displays this “refuse to sink” mentality. As we move through our daily journey, let us look at three things Peter realized that will help us embrace the “refuse to sink” spiritual mentality.

God is with us. In verse 25, the text shows us that it is Jesus that came to the disciples, walking on the sea. In their terror, trouble, and trauma, Jesus comes to them, and we also have to remember that Jesus comes to us! We can have a refuse to sink mentality because Jesus is with us, in the storm. He is not attending more important matters – we are important! Isaiah 41:10 says, “Do not fear, for I am with you, do not be afraid, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my victorious righthand.”

God is for us. In verse 30, Jesus calls for Peter to come. This reassures us that God is for us, for God will not call us to come in places that God is not confident that I can handle with God’s presence. Jesus’ encouragement to Peter and to us, is that if Jesus calls us to move into unfamiliar spaces, he knows that as long as we are moving towards God, we embrace a “refuse to sink” mentality.

God will help us. As Peter walks towards Christ, he looks at the wind and the waves and they get inside of him to the point where Peter begins to sink. Here is the place where we can find the most encouragement. The text does not say that Peter sank, but that he began to sink. So, when the weights of life get in us, and begin to overwhelm us, when we find ourselves beginning to

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— TRANSITIONS — EPISCOPAL SUPERVISOR DR. STANLEY MCKENZIE (1944-2021) Born on October 6, 1944, in Miami, Florida, Supervisor McKenzie was a graduate of New York University. He was a high scorer and star player and later was inducted into the NYU Hall of Fame. He also studied international law at the University of Perugia in Italy. McKenzie is the recipient of many honors and awards, including the Jesse Owens Lifetime Achievement Award from Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Drafted into the National Basketball Association (NBA) in 1966, McKenzie played guard for many years on several teams: the Baltimore Bullets, Phoenix Suns, Portland Trailblazers, and Houston Rockets. An NBA multi-record holder, McKenzie still held the record for “Most Free Throws” taken in one quarter, beating out basketball legend Wilt Chamberlain.

After retiring from the NBA, he spent more than two decades in human resources and personnel services. He served in managerial positions with several corporations handling day-to-day operations, overseeing a multi-million-dollar budget, writing U.S. government proposals, supervising, and training staff, contract negotiations, client relations, and streamlining and implementing security procedures.

From 2000-2021, Stan McKenzie served as an Episcopal supervisor of Missions and Children’s Work of the Women’s Missionary Society in the 18th, 13th, and 10th Episcopal districts. He became the first male supervisor in the over 200-year history of the AME Church when his wife, Bishop Vashti Murphy McKenzie, was elected the first female bishop in 2000.

He served as the Supervisor of Missions from 2000 to 2004 in the Eighteenth Episcopal District, which includes Lesotho, Botswana, Swaziland, and Mozambique. He instituted an entrepreneur program to teach youth and young adults business skills to help them in a failing economic environment.

He provided start-up funds for seven new businesses such as chicken farming, brick and candle making in Southeast Africa.

The profits helped build new churches and mission houses as well as helped expand existing church infrastructure.

Supervisor McKenzie also served from 2004-2012 as supervisor of Missions in the 13th Episcopal District that includes the states of Tennessee and Kentucky. He and Bishop McKenzie led the missionaries to fill 11 tractor-trailers and vans with food, clothing, and water for people displaced by Hurricane Katrina.

Supervisor McKenzie has created a ministry strategy to meet the needs of youth and adults across the state of Texas. Thousands of missionaries and young people have participated in AME Cares Day, a statewide initiative that develops community service projects beyond the sanctuary walls. In addition, the Alternative Spring Break provides an opportunity for middle and high school students to do a mission

project during their spring vacation from school. This year students spent three days in West, Texas, helping cleanup efforts to the city recently ravaged by a fertilizer plant explosion.

Under supervisor’s leadership, the WMS offered a $10,000 scholarship to an AME graduating high school senior to Paul Quinn College. He was also the special advisor to TenthFuture, Inc., the 501 (c)3 non-profit of the 10th Episcopal District that helps raise funds through an annual golf tournament for scholarships for students at Paul Quinn, community, and church service projects.

Supervisor McKenzie led a diverse missionary ministry that includes outreach and emergency assistance through clothes, food drives, soup kitchens, and holiday basket distributions. During the 10th District’s Super Summer Convocation each year, Supervisor McKenzie helped develop shared learning experiences geared towards young people to help them develop leadership skills and grow in faith.

The Elnita McClain House in Houston is also a missionary project that serves as an outreach facility serving the community’s needs on a variety of issues. In addition to sponsoring blood donation drives, walks, health fairs, and other wellness programs, the WMS also supports the work of missions internationally. One year they provided dresses for children in Liberia and contributed to funds for mission work in Malawi and Zimbabwe.

He was an active member of many organizations, including 100 Black Men, Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People, and the NBA Players Association.

Supervisor McKenzie died on July 21, 2021.

A devoted family man, he leaves to cherish his memory his wife of over 40 years, Bishop Vashti McKenzie, their children: John McKenzie, Vashti-Jasmine Saint-Jean (Amos), and Joi-Marie Lewis (Anton), and two grandchildren.

DR. PEGGY WALL (1944-2021)

Dr. Peggy Wall was the kind of woman who’d host a “crazy faith” retreat and dare the women to acknowledge their gifts, ignore their dings, and step out — Girlfriend it’s time — on crazy faith and be who they were created to be.

And many women and men are so much the better for having at least embraced the whole possibility.

It was that spiritual “moxy” and the enveloping love that made Dr. Wall a “stand out” person in the kingdom of God and her unexpected death, on June 20, has left many in disbelief.

“Dr. Wall was indeed a treasured vessel whose anointing oil blessed multiple generations, changing the trajectory of men, women, and boys and girls’ lives for generations to come,” said her friend, the Rev. Dr. Leah White, pastor of Greater Faith Baptist Church in Baltimore.

“Her testimony was one of the divine love and grace that she found in Jesus.”

This statement is heard repeatedly in reference to Dr. Wall.

“I came to know her as ‘Aunt Peggy’ in the early 1990s when she founded Immanuel Temple AME Church and my aunt, the Rev. Adella Holt, was with her. From the classroom to the pulpit to the board room, she gave of herself tirelessly,” said the Rev. Stephanie M. Atkins, pastor, Waters Memorial AME Church in Philadelphia.

Some of her students from Bethel Christian School are my beloved nieces to this day and I am witness to how these little girls have grown into responsible women, mothers, and leaders from her influence in their lives during their formative years.

In that same Imani Temple, was found the young drummer who was encouraged to keep at it.

He followed her instruction and today, he’s pastor of the Empowerment Temple AME Church in Baltimore.

“I met her as a young child at Bethel where my father worked in security. That was my first encounter with her,” said Pastor G.J. Barnes.

“And when she founded Immanuel Temple, my dad was one of the first five members to join. I was probably 10 years old.”

That was just the start of their relationship which has continued throughout.

“At that point I was really excited to be participating in church and she was good with me being the drummer.”

Pastor Barnes watched as ministers of music came and went, knowing he was too young and inexperienced for the job at that time.

But Dr. Wall also saw his enthusiasm and arranged some sessions with other church musicians when he showed he was also interested in and not bad at the keyboard.

“Within two years I jumped from the drums to the keyboard and became minister of music.”

Dr. Wall spoke to him about a call on his life when he was around 15.

“I really didn’t know what that meant then, but she created a structured environment into which I could grow. She took me to leadership conferences that had a youth component. And by 17, I could accept my call because I understood it better and she would from time to time invite me to bring a word,” Pastor Barnes said.

And he acknowledged many others into whose lives she sowed.

“She really was the quintessential representation of the word ‘empowerment,’ providing resources, training, encouragement, and confidence.”

She had come from humble beginnings but had not let that deter her progress; she was not going to let others do less. Professionally, she rose from a classroom teacher to a master teacher, to a trainer of teachers and ultimately to the level of regional supervision.

Pastor Barnes is just one who has the living legacy of Dr. Wall engraved on his being, having been raised through the “pedagogy of faith, excellence, compassion, and affirmation,” referenced by Dr. Wall’s spiritual parents and mentors, Bishop John R. and the Rev. Dr. Cecelia Williams Bryant. “Her legacy is evident in the souls transformed by her ministry of hope and possibility, and in the mourning of the women she ‘sistered,’ the men she encouraged and the community she loved.”

Many people spend their whole lives working and wanting treasure, tributes, and trophies, said Bishop Vashti McKenzie, presiding prelate of the 10th Episcopal District of the AME Church. “However, Dr. Peggy Wall served her whole life preparing the next generation of leaders. She lives in the students she taught and those she encouraged and inspired. She lives in the hearts of those whose lives were saved under her prophetic preaching. She lives in the hearts of those who witnessed the work the Lord did in her and through her.”

Dr. White said every room she (Dr. Wall) entered was instantly transformed into a place of joy, peace, and hope. “She leaves a testimony and witness of a woman of Kingdom Excellence.”

The boards and committees on which she served are too numerous to list; as are the “firsts” she accomplished in her total ministry. Most likely, her greatest pride would be the 11 ordained sons and daughters, who currently pastor or serve on ministerial staffs and the many other “spiritual children” for whom she prayed.

“As a spiritual daughter in the gospel of Jesus Christ, she shouldered with us the weighty visions of prophetic kingdom impact. We together with all the people of God celebrate her life,” the Bryants said.

Dr. Wall was 76 when she died.

Services for Dr. Wall included: Public viewing — 3-6 p.m., July 16 Memorial Service — 6-8 p.m., July 16 St. John AME Church; 810 N. Carrollton Avenue; Baltimore, Md. 21217 Homegoing Service — 10-11 a.m., July 17 Funeral — 11 a.m., July 17 Empowerment Temple AME Church; 4217 Primrose Avenue; Baltimore, Md. 21215 ❏ ❏ ❏

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WHAT YOU CAN DO TODAY TO STRENGTHEN THE FINANCIAL FOUNDATION OF YOUR CHURCH

By Cynthia Gordon-Floyd, CPA, Contributing Writer

I am blessed to regularly serve churches and non-profits in my ministry. I have found that most pastors and lay leaders are looking to understand how to establish a firm and steady financial foundation for their church or non-profit.

Over the past 30+ years as a financial consultant, I have made one overarching observation as I have served God’s people: fundraising is for the secular world! If, like me, you’ve been in ministry a long time, you have likely watched many fundraising efforts fail. Fundraising programs take extreme amounts of time and effort and are not always reliable. The church, however, requires reliable funding to operate. We must be able to house the ministry, provide a comfortable place of worship, and provide compensation to those who labor in service to God and to others in need. Yet, how we obtain this needed support determines the fruit that we produce. The Word of God is our only true and reliable guide for requesting support for his ministry. in clearly asking for for their needy brothers and sisters in Jerusalem.

What does God’s Word say about raising funds the required needs.

We don’t need to create clever ways to attempt to for the ministry? In Exodus 25, God instructs Moses As we minister to motivate others to give. Genuine love motivates to ask the people to give for the specific purpose of those among us and those within our reach, we generous giving. building the temple. In I Chronicles 29, David gave build the atmosphere that generosity thrives in. It is James reminds us that we “have not because we substantially of his wealth to Solomon to build the by meeting the needs of the poor, encouraging the ask not” (James 4:2). If we truly ask with the right permanent temple, but he also gathered gifts from youth, and providing moral guidance to all, that we heart, there are many brothers and sisters among us, the people. The Bible states that the people gave create the Cchurch that Jesus sacrificed his precious believers and non-believers, who will support the willingly toward the work on the temple of the Lord. life to offer to each of us. church if presented the opportunity to do so. We can The Macedonians, in their extreme poverty, were stop “fundraising,” and can instead feel confident motivated to give by their overflowing joyous love Cynthia Gordon-Floyd is a certified public accountant and founder of Willing Steward Ministries, LLC. Willing Steward Ministries (www. willingsteward.com) is a financial consulting and accounting firm for churches and other faith-based non-profits, specializing in Bible-focused financial practices, pastoral compensation issues, IRS compliance, and other financial needs specific to churches. Cynthia is a graduate of Lake Forest College and holds her MBA in accounting from DePaul University. She is a steward and the financial secretary at the First AME Church of Manassas in Manassas, Virginia. ❏ ❏ ❏

CITY OF CHARLESTON DONATES $2 MILLION TO EMANUEL NINE MEMORIAL CHARLESTON, S.C. – June 16, 2021 – The Mother Emanuel Memorial Foundation Board, which manages the fundraising, construction endowment, and outreach for the Emanuel Nine Memorial, announced today the city of Charleston has donated $2 million to the Emanuel Nine Memorial. Spearheaded by Charleston City Council Member William Dudley Gregorie, the donation will help fund the construction of the memorial and help build the foundation’s social justice programs and initiatives designed to end racism.

The Emanuel Nine Memorial honors the nine victims and five survivors of the June 17, 2015 tragedy, one of the largest racially motivated mass murders in recent American history. The memorial will be located on the grounds of Mother Emanuel Church and will feature a courtyard with two fellowship benches, facing each other with high backs that arc up and around like sheltering wings. At the center of the courtyard, the curves of the benches encircle a marble fountain where the names of the Emanuel Nine are carved around the fountain’s edge. Water emanates from a cross-shaped source, filling the basin and gently spilling over the names of the nine. The opening between the benches toward the back of the courtyard reveals a cross above a simple altar, providing visitors a quiet place to linger in thought and prayer.

The memorial will also include a survivors’ garden, which will be accessed by a pathway from the courtyard. Dedicated to life and resiliency, the garden will be surrounded by six stone benches and five trees, symbolizing the five survivors – the sixth signifying that the church is also a survivor. Groundbreaking is expected in fall 2021.

The foundation’s social justice initiatives will launch later this year and the Emanuel Nine Memorial is expected to open in mid- to late 2022.

With a fundraising goal of $17.5 million to design, build, maintain, and protect the Emanuel Nine Memorial, as well as fund educational outreach and social justice initiatives, the Mother Emanuel Memorial Foundation relies on individual and corporate contributions that can be made online by visiting: www.emanuelnine.org/donate.

QUOTES ✍ “Ever since June 17, 2015, the city of Charleston has stood by the families of the Emanuel Nine, the survivors, and the members of Mother Emanuel AME Church. We are truly thankful for their support for the last six years and are humbled by their contribution to the Mother Emanuel Memorial Foundation. Their contribution will ensure that the memory of the Emanuel Nine will never be forgotten, the resilience and strength of the survivors will continue to be celebrated, and the messages of forgiveness, love, and grace will draw all people together. Words cannot express how deeply humbled I am as the pastor of Mother Emanuel and the co-chair of the Memorial Foundation for the city’s vote of confidence in our ability to build a lasting memorial that will forever memorialize the Emanuel Nine, celebrate the resiliency and inspiration of the survivors, and carry forth the message of love and forgiveness that will build the foundation for celebrating our collective humanity.

Again, we are truly thankful for the city giving twomillion dollars to ensure that this vision becomes a reality.” – The Rev. Eric S.C. Manning, pastor of the Mother Emanuel AME Church and co-chair of the Mother Emanuel Memorial Foundation ✍ “The city of Charleston is honored to make this contribution to the Emanuel Nine Memorial fund.

When complete, this project will stand not only as a memorial to the victims of this horrific tragedy, but as a daily call to action for all our citizens. It will inspire us, just as the victims’ families and survivors have for the past six years, to continue moving forward together to make Charleston a more just and equitable place for all.” – Charleston Mayor John Tecklenburg ✍ “The city of Charleston has been with us and supported us since the beginning of the tragedy, which we greatly appreciate. We thank the city and

are greatly energized by its substantial donation to the Mother Emanuel Memorial Foundation to help us build the Emanuel Nine Memorial. May God bless the city of Charleston for all it has done and will continue to do.” – Polly Sheppard, Emanuel Nine survivor ✍ “I’m overjoyed to hear this news. Thank you to the city of Charleston for this big donation. I can’t wait to actually see this most important memorial be built to honor our loved ones.” – The Rev. Sharon Risher, daughter of Mrs. Ethel Lee Lance, one of the Emanuel Nine ✍ “It is hard to put into words how much this memorial means to me and my family. It will serve as a reminder to never forget what happened that day, but to be reminded that my Grandma Susie’s legacy lives on, along with all the lives taken, as well as the ones spared. It brings light ...continued on p28

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AUGUST 2021

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PANDEMIC GRADUATES DESERVE AN EXTRA ROUND OF APPLAUSE

By Dr. James B. Ewers, Jr., Ed.D., Columnist

Graduations are special occasions. They are full of great pomp and circumstance. In fact, they are unforgettable.

They have a life of their own and will live on forever.

While many years ago, I can remember each of my exercises. They were filled with relief and exhilaration.

My journey through the educational maze was complete. That was the relief. The joy and happiness associated with reaching my goal felt wonderful.

That was the exhilaration.

As I reflect on my graduation experiences, they were attended by my family and friends. Having them at these grand moments in my life was important.

I had never given any thought to people not attending graduation programs as I am an old school guy.

Like you, COVID-19 took me by surprise. The surprise was how much it affected our daily lives.

Children and schools go together. However, the Coronavirus put a sudden stop to traditional learning. Students were at home and so were teachers.

Virtual learning was a new term on the educational landscape. It meant being in front of a computer screen for both students and teachers.

Teachers have received over the years undo and unjust criticism. Being a teacher is not an easy job to have. During my professional life I was proud to have been a teacher.

Preparing lessons, meeting with parents, engaging different learning styles are just some of what teachers do each day.

If you are successful at anything, you can probably point to a teacher who motivated you along the way.

Parents have become the strongest supporters of teachers. This was especially true during the pandemic. They saw a small sample size of what teachers do each day when their child leaves home.

Teachers have always been beacons of hope and inspiration. They challenge us and they love us too.

Students have had to learn differently during this period. There was an adjustment they had to make. Was it difficult? I believe it was, but they were undaunted in their pursuit of knowledge.

Now they have reached the pinnacle and their hard work paid off. The assignments, technical difficulties, and frustrations are now behind them.

They are now graduates of the class of 2021. They made it.

Traditional graduations gave way to Zoom graduations. Graduation parties gave in to drive up shout outs.

Blocks and streets had signs up congratulating students who had achieved their goals.

Yet the quest for better continues.

Going to college for many students of color in some areas continues to be problematic.

Audrey Dow, senior vice president at Campaign for College Opportunity, said, “The most vulnerable students who have the most to gain from a college education are bearing the brunt of the pandemic effects. If the federal government, states, colleges, and universities do not step up in intentional ways to support low-income students of color to enroll and stay in college, we will see these disparities in college enrollment persist.”

Her comments were made based upon a National Student Clearinghouse Research Center analysis and participating colleges.

Education must be a focus for people of color. Further training will provide us with a better and brighter future.

All statistics show that education matters and makes a difference.

Congratulations to graduates as they took another step forward on their road to success. They are believing it and now they are achieving it. Make education a part of your family’s legacy.

Remember this about an education. Once you attain it, it cannot be taken away. It is yours forever.

Always keep a goal in front of you. Stay thirsty for acquiring new skills and competencies.

You have only just begun! ❏ ❏ ❏

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ST. STEPHEN AME CHURCH, DETROIT REVITALIZING ITS COMMUNITY

By Patricia A. Marshall, 4th Episcopal District

Under the leadership of the Rev. Dr. Darryl Williams, St. Stephen AME Church is revitalizing its community! St. Stephen has existed on the same corner for 102 years. Most of the businesses, homeowners, and churches left, leaving behind a trail of abandoned houses. Dr. Williams came in with a vision to rid the area of these abandoned houses and return the community to its vibrant days of long ago, the place that he remembered when visiting St. Stephen as a young pastor years ago. The first step in the revitalization was taken recently when St. Stephen had two abandoned houses demolished directly across the street from the church that had been an eyesore for years. The land was cleared and then purchased by The St Stephen Community Development Corporation. In addition to these two lots, two other lots were purchased that now serves as a community garden.

Our pastor knew that developing a decaying neighborhood would take strategic planning, building collaborations, and a lot of patience. He also felt that the laurels and achievements of the past should not be rested upon without setting new goals for the future. His objective was to develop an alliance with the residents and clergy of the westside community in which St Stephen is a part. The common purpose was to achieve revitalization, revival, and reformation by improving

state, and federal level to receive community services and blight reduction. reduction He also was was intentional in attracting the attention of government governmeent officials on the city, city state monetary funding for municipal distributions.

Our pastor was challenged by the

of the church.

this process of public ownership

two additional affordable homes.

takes

team

Our pastor’s vision is for our CDC to

aforementioned two houses that

The Detroit Land Bank Authority

were side by side, across the street

was created to make vacant and

considers several factors, including

revitalize a whole city block on John

on the corner facing the church.

residential public property available

the condition of the homes and sales

E. Hunter Street between Cobb and

One of the two houses had been the

for sale to promote homeownership,

potential. It sells houses on its website

McGraw. A dedication ceremony is

family home of Henry and Dorothy

neighborhood revitalization, urban

through multiple programs, primarily

being planned for the newly acquired

Wear, who were two of the church’s

agriculture, and economic growth in

by auction. While awaiting their fate,

lots.

staunchest supporters and oldest

the city of Detroit. The DLBA both

the properties that are not bid on are

The two lots that were purchased

members. After their demise, their

develops and cooperates with the

charged with maintenance, selling, or

behind the church serves as our

home was neglected and stood vacant

departments and agencies of the city

being demolished. A “brown space”

community reflection garden. The

and in disrepair for over a decade. To

in order to carry out this mission. It

remains once the structure is razed.

garden grows a vast array of vegetables

develop the land where their home

is a public authority that owns and

stood would be a wonderful way to

manages

place,

an

inventory

Once the lots were seeded by

and our plans are to install pavers,

100,000

the Land Bank, they were offered

benches, and a gazebo where anyone

honor their memory. Both houses

parcels of property in the City of

for sale to the church to use for

can come and sit, relax, and reflect.

were boarded up to prevent them

Detroit, making it the city’s largest

development and growth that will

It will be unlike anything in the

from becoming subjected to squatters

landowner. The property inventory

benefit the community. The resulting

community. So, as you can tell, our

and stray animals. However, the

of the Detroit Land Bank consists of

green space is being considered for

pastor is not only affecting change in

two homes were still vandalized and

vacant lots, abandoned houses, and

a “raised” vegetable garden and

our church, but in a community that

became victims of arson, thereby,

many other structures that are often

perennial flowers will be planted for

has been neglected for a long time.

creating more of an eyesore in the face

forced into tax foreclosure. Once

beautification purposes, or to build

❏❏❏

approximately

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LET INNOVATION CONTINUE June 12, 2021

By John Wm. Roberts, Ed.D., Contributing Writer

With infections down, vaccinations on the rise, and the ability to congregate increasing, what happens within the music ministries of the church? Where do we go? What do we do? These are questions many church music directors and musicians are asking. Do we go back to the same way of doing things before the pandemic? The old proverb states, “Necessity is the mother of invention.” The h services. The h music pandemic brought about interesting and effective ways of worship – Zoom worship services, conference call worship services, drive-in worship ministry adapted to these new innovations. These methods connected with congregants in ways unimaginable. The beauty of the music remained, only the delivery changed. These innovations can continue to be used even as churches are opening their doors to congregants.

Music is a mission! The new innovations can be used to reach congregants who are unable to physically come back to worship. Think of the people reached through the innovative services employed during the height of the pandemic. Think of the joy the service and music brought to those confined in their places of residence. Why can’t this continue as the pandemic is waning? Music departments can have weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly Zoom events where music is the focus.

The music can be structured around specific themes or events, such as traditional gospel, hymns which are not used as frequently. There are myriad ways these events can reach many. This is part of the mission of any music department. Departments can join forces with other departments and showcase the varieties of music being used in churches around the area. This could bring about a closer cooperation among church music departments.

Music continues to change and to grow! The methods of delivery must change/grow! The innovations/inventions came about as a need to the situation. Let music departments and musicians continue to stretch their spiritual and artistic boundaries and continue to bring the beauty and joy of music to all who need and appreciate God’s glory, compassion, love, and grace through religion’s universal medium…Music! ❏ ❏ ❏

THE PENDULUM IS STILL SWINGING

By Rev. Dr. Monica C. Jones, Ph.D., Contributing Writer

Black people in Georgia have seen the pendulum swing back and forth in terms of our political and voting record history. Now that we have formally declared ourselves blue and elected two progressive thinking senators to the United States Congress, we are looking forward to better days. Yet, the pendulum threatens to swing backward one more time. If we are not careful and allow ourselves to become complacent, we may not only lose the next election and thus at least one of our senators, but we may find ourselves voting back to the days of Jim Crow. We have had success and made progress, but that is not a permission slip to fall asleep at the wheel. The pendulum is still swinging.

WHAT WE’VE DONE Thanks to our fearless leader, we have been able to make some strides as we resist the anti-African American and people of color voting bill that was signed into law here in our state. Bishop Reginald T. Jackson did not waste any time calling for boycotts and action. As a result of his and others’ efforts, Major League Baseball will be having its next festivities elsewhere. This is absolutely a step in the right direction. Yet is it enough? For this problem is not just in Georgia; it is a nationwide cancer that must be eradicated.

WHAT WE CAN DO If we are to win the war and not just a temporary battle, we, collectively across the Connection, must monitor, oppose, and actively resist any legislation that will refuse voters of color the right to freely cast their ballot. Whether it is boycotts, marches, letter writing campaigns, or running for office ourselves, we cannot afford to allow racist, bigoted, and cowardly politicians to send us back to the days when black people were denied our right to vote.

In addition to taking direct action ourselves, we should consider supporting leading organizations and individuals who are doing the work now. For example, the honorable Stacey Abrams and her grassroots organization is calling for

support and soliciting our help. Fair Fight and other groups need us. When you can, send a few dollars their way. Meanwhile, continue to pray for a more equitable and democratic nation. Never stop calling for social change. Do not buy from businesses that we have been asked to boycott. Take a moment to call or write your legislator. If you have been called to do it, run for office and oppose those persons who do not have our best interests at heart. Find out what bills are either in the planning stages or that have passed which should be opposed (or supported). Most of all, plan, now, to vote in your next election, and do it early.

The pendulum is still swinging; We The People, cannot stop working.

The Reverend Monica C. Jones, Ph.D. is director of Christian education and an associate minister at Big Bethel in Atlanta.

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WILL CHURCH LOOK THE SAME?

By Rev. Herman O. Kelly, Ph.D., Contributing Writer

As we prepare to re-enter our church buildings post-Covid 19, the question which continues to capture our mental space and our theological thought is, how will church look? Will we have any semblance of the past experiences we had before the global pandemic? Will we recognize the former church and her emphasis on worship, witness, and ministry? Someone said, “We will not go back to church, we will re-enter the church building.” I strongly agree, going back has a theological concern for me. Going back to church means we do some of the same things we did that did not help our ministry or help kingdom-building. Going back means we have the same types of meetings and the same issues keep us from growing to be the kingdom place that God intends for us to be. “Then the Lord appeared to Abram and said, ‘To your offspring I will give this land.’ So he built there an altar to the Lord, who had appeared to him.” (Genesis 12:7) God has called us to be more than a building, but we are called to possess the land. We are called to make a difference in our communities.

As a pastor I was taught to always walk the community. Everywhere I served in our Zion. I make sure I walk the community. Why did I walk? I could have easily drove around the community. I walked, because I wanted to feel the space and pulse of the place that God send me. I walked, because I wanted the community to know that I represented God and God’s kingdom work. I walked, because I also belong to this community. I am not a fly by night person, I am a community theologian.

First, when we re-enter we will have to build a community again. The community we left over a year ago has changed. Some persons living near Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church in Baton Rouge, Louisiana have moved due to the pandemic, some have lost jobs, some have lost loved ones. The community will look different. Our ministry must re-imagine itself to build community again.

We must be an example of community for the community. The love we have for each other must extend beyond ourselves. The food giveaways, health fairs, community forums, must continue on our re-entry. We must possess the land.

Secondly, our worship must be focused and intentional. Many medical personnel believe the worship and gathering of people should be around one hour. This will be a new paradigm for many of us. As a liturgist and pastor, I enjoy the challenges we face. This new way of doing church allows us to be creative and innovative. During this pandemic we all have learned to adjust and we must continue to adjust to new modes of worship and witness.

Lastly, this is a wonderful opportunity to get the tech savvy young people involved. I inform my students at Louisiana State University that I was born during the rotary phone and now I live in the cell phone era. I had to learn as I go. I have learned to Zoom, Google meetings, iPhone conferences, and other platforms. I have asked my younger members to assist me in this process. I am a master swimmer, in fact I am a senior Olympian, but I am like a fish out of water regarding technology, but I continue to dive in deep water to learn. In Jacksonville, Florida I learned to swim at a segregated swimming pool. In order to pass the swimming requirements, it was necessary for me to jump off the diving board in deep water. As we re-enter our buildings we all must jump into deep water. We must learn to swim in these turbulent waters of post-Covid 19. We must learn the skills I learned at the segregated pool in Jacksonville.

I learned how to float and kick and survive in deep water, and later I learned how to be a competitive swimmer. We must learn how to compete for kingdombuilding, we must learn how to swim and save ourselves and our communities.

When he had stopped speaking, he said to Simon, “Launch out into the deep and let down your nets for a catch.” Luke 5:4 Dr. Herman O. Kelly, Jr. Pastor Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church Baton Rouge, Louisiana Adjunct Faculty African and African American Studies Department The College of Human Sciences and Education Graduate Faculty, Louisiana State University ❏ ❏ ❏

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STRETCHING WOMEN IN MINISTRY

By Rev. Renita Green, Columnist

The Reverend Dr. Erika D. Crawford was elected to lead the Connectional Women in Ministry for a second term (each term is four years).

The Rev Dr. Crawford, who has been in the AME Church since childhood, grew up in Bethel AME, Samford, Connecticut where her mother served as a steward. During her collegeage years she left the church for a brief time, but as Tolkien said, “All who wander are not lost.”

In her early twenties, the Reverend Crawford returned to the AME Church through Reid Chapell AME Church h h in Columbia, l b SC (7th Episcopal District) where she felt the pull of God into ministry. At the age of twenty-three, she conceded to the Lord and entered the Institute of Ministerial Training. A few years later, life’s twists and turns returned her to the 1st Episcopal District. Over the next ten years, she navigated a journey of personal and professional growth culminating in her ordination as an itinerant elder in 2006.

Although her sights had not been set on pastoring, she trusted that “God’s thoughts are higher than our thoughts” and humbly accepted her first pastoral appointment in 2008 Allen Temple AME Church in Mt. Vernon, New York.

She currently serves Mt. Zion AME Church in Dover, Delaware. She has also served as an ecumenical campus pastor, chaplain to the WNBA, and eirector of Pastoral Care at Robert Wood Johnson Hospital.

It was the Rev. Lillian Fry Webb, former Connectional WIM president, who drew Dr. Crawford into participation in Women in Ministry. The Rev. Fry Webb conveyed the importance of WIM and specifically of younger leadership being engaged in our church. Once in, the Rev. Fry Webb continued to invest her time, wisdom, and spirit into the Rev. Erika.

Initially, she sought to help with the recruitment and membership efforts of the Connectional WIM through technology. In 2015 the Reverend Francine Brookins and the outgoing president, Rev. Dr. Kimberly Detheridge, encouraged the Rev. Crawford to consider a run for Connectional WIM president. Believing God said go, she stepped out and offered herself for consideration. In 2016 the gathered body of women said yes.

Having been raised by parents who believed in hard work, community and finishing what one started, the Rev. Dr. Crawford unapologetically gives every assignment all that she’s got—she firmly believes that we must give our all or just leave it alone. To that end, she will push and pull those she is leading, challenging them to stretch to realize their maximum potential. One of her early and beloved mentors, Presiding Elder Winton Hill III, also demonstrated this type of leadership.

Stretching hurts and it also feels good! Stretching increases our capacity to grow beyond our imagination. In February 2020 Women in Ministry stretched across the globe holding the first-ever WIM Quadrennial Convention in Cape Town, South Africa.

As the pandemic wore on, words from Bishop Vashti Murphy McKenzie echoed, “Don’t miss the moment”. Heeding this advice, Rev Crawford stretched beyond special limitations, and along with the Connectional WIM team, created a 9-part “Maximizing Ministry” series of mentoring conversations. To date, over 500 different women and men participated in the various sessions.

Bishop E. Anne Henning Byfield, WIM Commission chair, said that while every president of the Connectional Women in Ministry has advanced the cause of WIM globally, under the Rev. Dr. Erika Crawford we have seen a difference in the level of advancements. “She has empowered leadership across the connection, advanced new trends in technology, and brought the church to a full understanding of the rights, responsibilities, and ongoing pursuit of equality for women who are in ministry.”

As a steward-leader of the Women in Ministry, she deeply honors the legacy of the forerunners and is determined to celebrate the past by ensuring their labors were not in vain. The Rev. Crawford understands that ministries belong to God and are for the people. As leaders, we are entrusted to continue watering what others planted and to plant what others will water while trusting God with the increase.

Every morning the Rev. Dr. Crawford prays, “Lord, I want to be a faithful

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A JUNETEENTH MOMENT: COVID & THE REAL MEANING OF FREEDOM

By Dr. D’Weston Haywood, Columnist

Perhaps

we

have

reached

a

plateau

inconceivable a year ago: the lifting of Covid restrictions across the country. Life finally appears to be returning to normal, just in time too for Independence Day. Indeed, President Biden made this one of his chief goals, and hoped to mobilize Americans behind vaccination efforts by framing his call around the holiday. The juxtaposition is striking, but an obvious one, given our previous year confined under a global pandemic—get vaccinated to be free on the country’s day of freedom. Yet, it is not so much July 4th as much as it is Juneteenth that makes this crucial point about what freedom really means.

Juneteenth, which is also called Emancipation Day, is celebrated by many black people to commemorate the day that enslaved black people in Galveston, Texas learned they were free, some two years after President Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation, freeing slaves in rebelling states. On June 19, 1865, General Gordon Granger arrived to the area. The Civil War ended in April, but Confederates continued fighting well into May. Granger came to impose order on the state, and to announce General Order #3: “The people of Texas are informed that, in accordance with a proclamation from the Executive of the United States, all slaves are free. This involves an absolute equality of personal rights and rights of property between former masters and slaves.”1 The order’s point about “absolute equality” spoke to the very conceptions of freedom that many enslaved people throughout the South had long held, evidenced, for example, by the petitions some had submitted to governors, state legislatures, and courts as early as the 18th century, demanding rights. Their quest for equality continued well after emancipation. Even as many searched to reunite with loved ones, become educated, and lead lives on their own terms, they also organized groups and conventions dedicated to pressing for reparations, political and legal rights, and racial equality. Within a few years, the federal government reflected these efforts, passing the 13th, 14th, and 15th Amendments. The Amendments abolished slavery, established citizenship and equal protection under the law regardless of race, and granted voting rights to black men. Yet, these unprecedented efforts, known as the Reconstruction era, failed by 1877 in the collapse of political will and the rise of white terrorist groups determined to crush black aspirations and black political power. In 1898, the Supreme Court handed down perhaps the coda to this moment, upholding segregation in the case of Plessy vs. Ferguson, which launched over half-a-century of the Jim Crow era.

In our present moment of freedom from covid, amid escalating racial violence, ongoing police brutality, and calculated assaults on the black vote, what Juneteenth reminds us of annually is something the formerly enslaved well understood: real freedom is not just about the absence of restrictions; it is also about rights and the expansion of democracy to make liberty all that it could and should be. ❏ ❏ ❏ 1 Annette Gordon-Reed, On Juneteenth (New York: Liverlight Publishing Corporation, 2021), 124.

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THE TRUTH IS THE LIGHT

By Rev. Dr. Charles R. Watkins, Jr., Senior Columnist

“And of the children of Issachar, which were men that had understanding of the times, to know what Israel ought to do; the heads of them were two hundred; and all their brethren were at their commandment” The duty of prophetic discernment is a critical one particularly in light of the ever-changing fabric of our society. It is imperative that someone have an understanding of the times in order to provide appropriate suggestions for what we should do in each situation we encounter. In our text we find a group of men assigned to that very important task. These men were assembled as part of the gathering to designate David king of Israel. To these men was assigned the important task of observation. They were to listen with their spiritual ears discerning the will of God for his people at any given period of time. These men, the Bible tells us, were descendants of Issachar, the son of Jacob and Leah and were bold, uncompromising, and unwavering men.

As I grew into manhood, I was taught to look to spiritually discerning older men. I was encouraged to rely on the spiritual direction of godly men. These carefully chosen men, who understood the times, would become the role-models and father figures who counseled me in the direction I should take, and the things I should do in my life. They became essentially the “Issachar men” in my life. When I heeded their counsel, I was able to avoid many of the pitfalls and dangers that life would present. I was able to side-step many of the expensive life lessons that exact such a heavy price in the lives of our young men today.

It is very unfortunate that so many young men today seem to have broken all contact with God and no longer look to spiritually discerning older men as role models. Lamentably, there is a new generation of young men who have elected to be molded instead by the ungodly sports and entertainment influence. This unsavory influence has led the spirits of our young men, particularly during their most formative years, to flounder mired in profanity, adultery, and other debasing sins that so easily beset them.

Our grandfathers and our fathers’ generations of men looked up to the positive influences provided by the doctors, lawyers, federal, and state leaders that spoke of the advancement of our people and the strengthening of our family structure.

It seems today that our young men are more intent to follow the destructive lead of the doctors, slixters, and dogs of rap and the unrestrained money-driven exploits of first-time millionaire athletes.

The results of the insalubrious life modeling can be found in the drastic change in what we consider entertaining. The movies we flock to see promote vile profanity. Our basement house parties once included the twist, hand dancing, and dancing “cheek to cheek.” Unfortunately, no longer does it appear safe to host a basement house party. However, before the drama sets off the dance moves are much more provocative.

God would have us to know that all is not lost. There are still some good men around! Spiritual men are still available in our communities to offer a new direction and a new purpose for our susceptible young people. There are some of God’s “Issachar Men” around who will step up to the plate and serve as positive interpreters of life. God still looks to these spiritually sound men to help young men to understand and interpret our changing times.

God is calling for Christian men to be spiritual fathers. God challenges spiritually discerning men to give right counsel to those who seek it. God is seeking the “Issachar men” of his church, calling for them to stand up and be counted. The church needs men who will direct God’s people as leaders of his kingdom. The church and community desperately need men who will minister to the impressionable with the intensity of God’s spirit. There is a critical need for men who will stand up and powerfully address the concerns we face with an enthusiasm that is generated by the excellence of their own spiritual training.

We are blessed to be a blessing.

The Bible is rife with men who have served in this army for the Lord. However, because the price a man must pay to walk in these ranks is considerable, traditionally God has drafted men for this duty. Scripture confirms that men God called upon have not only talked the talk but walked the walk. The men who God has enlisted for this service have proven to be ...continued on p20

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EXHALE -- MEDITATIONS FOR HEALING THE HEART OF A WOMAN

By Rev. Dr. Maxine Thomas, Columnist

“I am the good shepherd, and I know my sheep, and am known of mine. As the Father knoweth me, even so, know I the Father: and I lay down my life for the sheep.”

John 10:14-15 I KNOW HE CARES Jesus says of himself, I am the Good Shepherd. Consider the role of a shepherd. A shepherd is one who attends sheep. He cares for them. And because he cares for his sheep, all that he does stems from his delight in them, not out of a sense of duty. My friend, Jesus is pleased to take care of you. Cast all of your cares upon him. You know, that thought of how you are going to pay a bill or what to do about your brother who was supposed to stay two weeks at your apartment and now it has been two months. Sis, cast your cares upon him. Give him your heartaches and sorrow and entrust to him your every care. He really cares for you.

Jesus, the living Word of the Father, says that he knows his sheep. Beloved, it does not matter whether you are known in the circles of the elite of society.

Did the pastor forget to call your name? Have you ever felt left out, forgotten, overlooked, or pushed aside? Jesus knows who you are. Your name has been written down in glory. Hallelujah! I don’t know about you, but I would rather be known by God then known by the princes of this world.

God knows you by name. The Bible says those who are known by the Good Shepherd also know him. Are you glad that you know him today? I know his power. His power supersedes any previous notion that I had about the investiture of and results of power. God can open doors that no man can close. Yes, the devil thought that he had closed the door to your self-esteem when you were molested by your cousin James as a child, but God has the key to your emotional healing. Hallelujah! That may not be your story, but whatever had you bound, or whatever force or power that tried to lock you out, drag you down, and/or count you as lost, God has the power to pick you up and turn it around for your good!

If you know that he can open doors that no man can close, just give him a shout of praise right now. And I am just as excited that he can close doors that no man can open. He can close the doors to the pain of your past so that you will not even remember the guilt and the shame. Hallelujah! He can grow a mountain in a valley. He can send a river through dry places. Have you ever been hungry and had God feed you? When I was thirsty, he gave me water. In fact, he is a bridge over troubled waters. Sis, God really cares for you.

Do you know his love? Jesus says, I lay down my life for the sheep. As women, we know how to sacrifice. Just now, some mother lies awake praying for a child gone astray, or bathing the brow of a child with a fever. Some woman is buying the bread and baking it too. Going without so the children might have. Helping a husband who refuses to help himself. Hoping when all hope is lost. Yes, we know how to sacrifice.

But greater love than this has no man than a man who would lay down his life for a friend (John 15:13). Jesus paid the ultimate sacrifice when he laid down his life for you and me. It was love that took on all my sins! It was love that paid the debt I owed! It was love that would not, could not come down from the cross!

It was love that decided to die just to save me! My friend, you are really loved. ❏❏❏

EXHALE As I seek to know Jesus in a more intimate way, I let go of all reservations and inhibitions in this moment. I exhale.

...From The Truth p19 veterans of spiritual warfare who bear the marks on their souls.

God enlists men who have been inspired and are ready to inspire others. God’s army includes the men that have fought the good fight, who have finished the course, and kept the faith. These are the men God can trust to offer good counsel, moral integrity, and spiritual fortitude to the mighty young men of God today.

God enlists men who will use what they have been taught in the temple to teach others. God intends that these spiritually mature men who have been blessed with the gift to discern the times will rise to help others.

There is much work to be done and there is absolutely no time to waste. Our young men are in desperate need of spiritual mentoring and counseling. They are in grave need of intervention and for God’s men to steer them in the right direction. Jesus said, “For nation shall rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom: and there shall be famines, and pestilences, and earthquakes, in divers places.” We see the signs daily warning us that a generation of our young men may have already been lost to Satan and his tactics. We cannot ignore the cries for help from the next generation!

God is calling for “Issachar men.” God is calling us to battle! God is seeking reliable, valiant, brave, and bold men. We are challenged to rise up in these sensitive times to embrace our youth and strengthen them with the Word of God. God is calling for us to offer healing to the hurting and direction to the misguided. We must boldly stand against the gates of hell with force and commitment. We must be steadfast, refusing to succumb to Satan’s tyranny and remain devoted to the guiding principles of God. Men of God, we are being called to battle. We are God’s trumpets for this new millennium. But the Bible warns us, “For if the trumpet gives an uncertain sound, who shall prepare himself to the battle?”(1 Corinthians 14:8). Although the Apostle Paul is referring to the ineffectiveness of speaking in strange tongues to the unsaved, this is a warning for the “called of God” to make certain that our “trumpets” sound a message that is clearly understood. Men, we are warned that God has sounded the call to arms. He has issued a challenge to us to carry the right message to our youth. We are to carry a message of repentance, salvation, sanctification, and of spiritual survival.

We are men of God, “Issachar men,” and the Bible declares that “the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strongholds” (2 Cor. 10:4). God wants us to understand that it is time for “Issachar men” to proclaim what the saints of God “ought to do.” What we “ought to do” is stand up for God and against those who mock the miracles of God and disclaim the goodness of God. We must use the weapons at our disposal to teach our youth that those who trust in God must stand against the enemy.

When we rise as “Issachar men,” our young people will see that no adversity will cause us to panic, and no disappointments will incite us to worry. The passion and enthusiasm of our service will be driven by our love for Jesus and the promise of his coming again.

This Father’s Day is an opportune time for us to ask ourselves, “Are we Issachar men?” Will we stand on God’s Word trusting that it is indeed the only truth worth defending today? Will we boldly teach our young men that Jesus is the answer to their questions and the solution for their problems? Will we confidently affirm by our talk and our walk that Jesus will satisfy all that man hungers for? Will we stand as positive examples, godly in our character, faithful in our commitment, and pure in our motives, modeling for this present age the visible evidence of the invisible work of God’s grace?

The Reverend Dr. Charles R. Watkins, Jr., is the pastor of James Chapel AME Church in Charleston, SC.

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CONNECTIONALNEWS

IBM PROVIDES WILBERFORCE UNIVERSITY WITH $2 MILLION IN AI AND OPEN HYBRID CLOUD TECHNOLOGY RESOURCES TO HELP STUDENTS BUILD MODERN SKILLS Wilberforce, OH, June 3, 2021 – Wilberforce University announces a multi-million dollar collaboration with IBM on a comprehensive program designed to develop diverse and high demand skill sets that align with industry needs and trends so both students and faculty can develop the skills they need today for the jobs of tomorrow.

IBM and Wilberforce University, the nation’s first, private HBCU, are building on the need to advance digital skills in education. Each of these institutions is dedicated to providing future focused curriculum and educational tools to help train the diverse workforce of tomorrow in fast-growing technologies such as AI, blockchain, data science, cybersecurity, cloud, and quantum.

The university will provide students, faculty, and staff with innovative training that will enhance academic programs and enrollment as well as create a competitive academic atmosphere that allows students to compete in the global marketplace.

“Wilberforce University has a history of providing its students with robust and innovative opportunities for learning. As the University explores the transdisciplinary integration of academic disciplines, we want to incorporate tools to prepare our students for the competitive global marketplace. Whether our students seek fields in the sciences, business, or the arts, their choices should have economic and financial returns on personal investment. Utilizing IBM resources, our students leverage their intellectual assets for maximal optimization for longer-term career advancement.” – President Elfred Anthony Pinkard, Ed.D, Wilberforce University The collaboration extends IBM’s recent investment in technology, assets, resources, and skills development with HBCUs across the United States through the IBM Skills Academy and IBM Academic Initiative.

As part of its multi-year Global University Programs which include the IBM Academic Initiative and the IBM Skills Academy, IBM is providing more than $100M in assets, faculty training, pre-built and maintained curriculum content, hands on labs, use cases, digital badges, and software to participating HBCUs. The IBM Academic Initiative provides access to resources at no-charge for teaching, learning, and non-commercial research with recent enhancements including access to guest lectures. The IBM Skills Academy is a comprehensive, integrated program through an education portal designed to create a foundation of diverse and high demand skill sets that directly correlate to what students will need in the workplace.

The learning tracks address topics such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, blockchain, data science, and quantum computing.

IBM’s investment in HBCUs like Wilberforce University is part of the company’s dedicated work to promote social justice and racial equality by creating equitable, innovative experiences for HBCU students to acquire the necessary skills to help unlock economic opportunity and prosperity.

About Wilberforce University: Wilberforce University, established in 1856, is the nation’s first, private, historically black college or university (HBCU). Located in Greene County, near Dayton, Ohio, the four year, accredited university is a member of the United Negro College Fund (UNCF), Inc., the Ohio LINK Library Consortium, and the NAIA Conference.

According to HBCU.com, Wilberforce is one of the top five HBCUs in the Midwest.

Contact: Marsha Bonhart, 937-286-0023 About IBM: IBM is a leading global hybrid cloud, AI, and business services provider. We help clients in more than 175 countries capitalize on insights from their data, streamline business processes, reduce costs, and gain the competitive edge in their industries. For more information visit: https://newsroom.ibm.com/home.

To learn more about IBM’s 100 years of work on diversity, inclusion, and equality in the workplace, visit https://www.ibm.com/employment/inclusion/ IBM Media Relations Contact: Tamarra Thal: Tamarra.thal@ibm.com • (561) 229-7609.

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ALLEN UNIVERSITY HEADS TO SPACE WITH THE BOEING COMPANY Allen University heads to space with corporate partner The Boeing Company.

The institution is one of 14 historically black colleges and universities that Boeing is commemorating on its CST-100 Starliner second Orbital Flight Test (OFT-2).

Of the 14 institutions, 13 have a recruiting partnership. Allen University differs in that it formed a partnership with The Boeing Company to establish the Boeing Institute on Civility. The institute will be a national hub for teaching and programming aimed at advancing civil discourse in America and across the globe.

The announcement comes some eight months after Allen University president and CEO, Dr. Ernest McNealey, spoke about the reach of The Boeing Company. Flags, small pennants, and other items representing select HBCUs from throughout the U.S. will be part of the approximately 760 pounds of cargo flying inside the Starliner’s crew module when it launches to the International Space Station for OFT-2.

“The reach of The Boeing Company is particularly compatible with the University’s aspiration to demonstrate that service to the greater good does not stop in one’s own community, but has the obligation to be expansive,” said Allen University president and CEO, Ernest McNealey.

Boeing is targeting Friday, July 30, to launch the uncrewed vehicle atop an Atlas V from Space Launch Complex-41 from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida.

The CST-100 Starliner is a full-service orbital crew transportation vehicle providing all elements needed to transport crew and cargo to and from low earth orbit destinations, including crew training and mission planning, spacecraft, and launch vehicle assembly, integration, and testing, and crew and cargo recovery. The goal is to provide safe, reliable, and cost-effective access to space, beginning with NASA missions to the International Space Station.

ABOUT ALLEN UNIVERSITY Allen University is accredited by Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges to award associate, baccalaureate, and masters degrees. Contact the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, Georgia 300334097 or call 404-679-4500 for questions about the accreditation of Allen University.

Contact: Anika V. Thomas Allen University, Director of Marketing and Communication 803-376-5717 | acobb@allenuniversity.edu

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A BIG GIFT FOR WILBERFORCE UNIVERSITY 2020-2021 STUDENTS: GRADS BENEFIT Wilberforce, Ohio, May 29 - Wilberforce University is sending its newest graduating classes home with a huge gift and peace of mind.

At the end of Saturday’s commencement exercises, President Elfred Anthony Pinkard announced to the 2020 and 2021 new alumni that their debt owed to the university has been settled and carries a zero balance.

The university’s debt erasing dollars are resourced from various scholarships such as the United Negro College Fund, Inc., Jack and Jill, Inc., and other institutional funding to help students from last year’s spring and fall semesters and spring 2021 with their higher education finances.

Last spring, during the initial COVID 19 pandemic outbreak, all Wilberforce students were relieved of financial pressure through the Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund (HEERF), set up through the CARES Act, which provided emergency financial aid for colleges and universities. This specifically helped students whose bursar office balance would have prohibited them from registering for the upcoming fall classes.

Th debt relief means a brighter financial future for The this ggraduate.

“I ccouldn’t believe it when he said it. It’s a blessing. kno God will be with me. I’m not worried. I can use I know that m money and invest it into my future.” – Rodman Allen 2021 WU Alumnus Allen, Th total tally that has been cleared from all The Wilb Wilberforce students enrolled in 2020 and 2021 Dr. President Elfred Anthony excee $375,000. That, the president says, will move exceeds Pinkard. these students in a positive budgetary direction.

Acco According to the advocacy organization ProgressNow, stude with outstanding student debt are 36 percent less likely to buy a home or less likely students to ta take out car loans. Canceling student debt stimulates the economy because potential borro borrowers are encouraged to spend more.

“As these graduates begin their lives as responsible adults, we are honored to be able to give tthem a fresh start by relieving their student debt to the university.” -Dr. Elfred Anthony Pinka 22nd President, Wilberforce University Pinkard, In recent years, the average college student loan debt is more than $30,000 and the numbers Rodman Allen and mom. are staggering s for students at HBCUs. For instance, statistics show balances for African Amer American women can take up to 111% of their first year income. And according to the American Association of University Women, black women also have the highest hig student debt loan of any racial or ethnic group. For these 2020 and 2021 Wilberforce students students, those statistics have now narrowed narrowed. ❏ ❏ ❏

EDWARD WATERS COLLEGE OFFICIALLY TRANSITIONS TO EDWARD WATERS UNIVERSITY (JACKSONVILLE, FLORIDA) – Edward Waters College made history when the institution officially transitioned to Edward Waters h University.

The announcement was made during a press conference U at a which the institution presented the new name and other significant milestones, marking the evolution of the 155-year-old institution’s m history that reflects its leadership in the rapidly changing higher h education marketplace through its innovative programs and workforcee ready education. r The announcement comes after the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC), regional C accreditation agency approved the institution’s level change from a a baccalaureate to master’s level degree granting entity, allowing Edward b Waters the opportunity to offer graduate programs for the first time W in i the school’s history. “In the 155-year history of Edward Waters, this most auspicious and transformative occasion reaffirms the t forward and upward moving trajectory of our storied and illustrious f institution.” said EWU president and CEO, Dr. A. Zachary Faison, Jr. i Additionally, the school was approved to operate a new, fully accredited Online Master of Business Administration degree. These two changes allowed for the school to move from college to university status and is the first graduate degree program ever offered at the state of Florida’s first independent institution of higher learning and first Historically Black College or University (HBCU).

Not only was the institution approved to offer graduate programs, but also its fifth-year accreditation review was accepted and approved by SACSCOC without any required follow-up report. This seals the University’s accreditation until its next reaffirmation review by SACSCOC in 2025.

“Edward Waters University will continue to emerge as the state of Florida’s premier destination institution of higher education through the growth of its academic programs and strengthening of its fiscal viability that will sustain the institution for yet another 155 years and beyond as we continue to implement the strategic vision Eminence 2025.”

The new Online MBA Program has already started receiving applications and is now officially enrolling students for fall 2021. Interested students can apply and get more information about EWU’s new online MBA program at www.ewc.edu/mba. ❏ ❏ ❏

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WHY THE DEMOCRATS NEED JOE MANCHIN

By Rev. Quardricos R. Driskell, Columnist

Arguably, one of the most powerful men in Washington is Democratic Senator Joe Manchin of West Virginia. He is the moderate, centrist swing-decision maker in the Senate, where President Biden’s legislative agenda is contingent upon his vote.

Democrats received a big win in March with the $1.9 trillion American Rescue Plan passage. They know President Biden is trying to move a progressive agenda through his nominees, executive orders, and policy decisions, but they still need Congress to pass significant legislation. And that’s not happening, thanks in part to Manchin, Sen. Kyrsten Sinema (D-AZ), and other moderates in the Senate.

Such major legislative agenda championed by the Democrats include: D.C. statehood, which is not faring well; immigration reform is nowhere; the bipartisan Jan. 6 commission bill was filibustered; gun control is stalled. The American Family Plan has big problems. The American Jobs Plan may not fare as badly, but it won’t survive intact. You can probably forget about a significant rewrite of the tax code, although the White House and Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen are pushing hard on a “global minimum tax.” And most recently, progressives grew more furious about the Senator’s op-ed decision not to support the Democrats election reform bill known as the “For the People Act.” The attacks from liberals have been swift and breviloquent on Twitter and the news channels. Rep. Mondaire Jones (D-NY-17) suggested that the senator’s op-ed should have been entitled, “Why I’ll vote to preserve Jim Crow.” Rep. Jamaal Bowman (D-NY-16) labeled Manchin as the “new Mitch McConnell.” Additionally, Rev. William Barber, a religious progressive and leader of the Poor People’s Campaign, is organizing a “Moral March on Manchin” in West Virginia.

But while the attacks are more ideological than political and justified, especially for the more progressive wing of the Democrats, after all, Manchin has boxed himself in by saying too bluntly what he will and won’t do; thus giving away his leverage, not preserving it. However, such bombast with the leftmost Democrats speaks to the need for moderation within both parties, especially the Democrats. The attacks will not harm Sen. Manchin given his status in West Virginia, where Trump carried

the state by nearly forty points. Democrats, however, don’t seem to understand the reward: a centrist, independent, can translate into a win, which sometimes means flouting the party when a controversial piece of legislation, nor are they trying to work with Manchin, and this will be their problem, essentially our problem. Furthermore, according to ProPolitica, Sen. Manchin has voted with his party nearly eighty percent of the time, dating back to the 112th Congress. He’s voted for all of Biden’s nominees, and frankly, Manchin doesn’t need his party. The party needs him.

African Americans turned out in record numbers to ensure a Biden/Harris win and a slight congressional democratic majority. The African American vote and, more so that of black women voters, gave the Democratic Party its current majority. And as the research illustrates, when the Democrats are in control, African Americans, the poor and other people of color legislatively tend to do well. Consequently, the Democrats need moderate voices – conservative Democrats, including Manchin. Democrats should be concerned about the increasing appeal of conservatism to minority voters, especially Latinos. This week, Republicans have won two Texas mayoral races, where eighty-five percent of the population is hispanic. While republicans may never win over eleven percent of black voters, we can’t ignore the conservatism strong-hold and outreach among certain racial groups, including Asian and Latino americans. Thus, as some Latinos and Asians flock to the GOP, that increasingly leaves the Democratic Party’s base minority-majority, black, with urban and liberal progressives. President Biden also needs Manchin. Manchin nor his party can’t be opposed to meaningful legislation without concretely contributing to what is required for a compromise.

Even Sen. Manchin’s predecessor, the late Sen. Robert Byrd, understood the idea is getting something of value done. ...continued on p28

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CONGRATULATORY LISTINGS

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JULY 2021

*Purple font connotes Episcopal Family; Red font, General Officers; and Blue font, Connectional Officers. *Dr. Paulette Coleman Retired General Officer Awarded Louisville Institute 2021 Project Grant for Researchers The Louisville Institute is pleased to announce the 2021 Project Grant for Researchers (PGR) grants. The Project Grant for Researchers supports research, reflection, and writing by academics and pastors concerning Christian faith and life, the practice of ministry, and/or religious institutions. Grants of up to $30,000 support a diverse range of projects that may involve independent study, consultations, or collaboration between pastors and academics. “The seventeen awarded grants represent a diverse group of grantees,” noted Dr. Don C. Richter, the Institute’s associate director. “The quality of the grants entire proposal pool made the work of the selection committee challenging indeed.

We gave preference to projects that show potential for generating and analyzing reliable new data rather than repacking conventional knowledge.”

Dr. Paulette Coleman, a retired general officer of the AME Church, was recently awarded one of the 2021 Project Grant for Researchers. Her research will explore ways of rethinking or reimagining lay ministry in the three major African American Methodist denominations: African Methodist Episcopal Church (AME), African Methodist Episcopal Church Zion (AMEZ), and the Christian Methodist Episcopal Church. Her research question is, how can the principles of community organizing inform lay ministry in the three major African American Methodist denominations?

Louisville Institute is funded by the Religion Division of Lilly Endowment Inc. and based at Louisville Presbyterian Theological Seminary (Louisville, Kentucky). The Louisville Institute’s mission is to bridge church and academy through awarding grants and fellowships to those who study North American religious institutions, practices, and movements, and thereby promoting

scholarship that strengthens church, academy, society, and contributes to the flourishing of the church. To receive further information about the Louisville Institute’s fellowships and grant programs, please consult https://louisvilleinstitute.org/ or contact the Institute at info@louisville.org.

Congratulatory messages can be emailed to: saico7@aol.com (Dr. Paulette Coleman). *Duke University President Vincent Price has appointed the Reverend Dr. Jonathan C. Augustine, senior pastor at St. Joseph AME Church (Durham, NC), to the Board of Visitors of Duke Divinity School Duke University President Vincent Price has appointed the Reverend Dr. Jonathan C. Augustine, senior pastor at St. Joseph AME Church (Durham, NC), to the Board of Visitors of Duke Divinity School. The three-year appointment is effective July 1, 2021.

Dr. Augustine will work closely with the Duke Center for Reconciliation, in furthering his work on race relations. His forthcoming book, Called to Reconciliation: How the Church Can Model Justice, Diversity and Inclusion, will be published by Baker Academic in the spring of 2022. In addition to his pastoral service, Dr. Augustine is an adjunct professor of law at North Carolina Central University, member of the Board of Directors at PartnersGlobal, and member of North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper’s Andrea Harris Racial Equity and Environmental Justice Task Force.

Pastor Jay Augustine earned a B.A. from Howard University, J.D. from Tulane University, M.Div. at United Theological Seminary, and D.Min. at Duke University.

He is married to St. Joseph’s first lady, Sister Michelle Burks Augustine.

Congratulatory responses can be emailed to: jayaugustine9@gmail.com, Reverend Dr. Jonathan C. Augustine.

On behalf of Publications Commission chair Bishop Vashti McKenzie, president/publisher of the AMEC Publishing House (Sunday School Union) Rev. Dr. Roderick D. Belin and editor of The Christian Recorder Mr. John Thomas III, we celebrate and applaud your achievements.

“For surely I know the plans I have for you, says the Lord, plans for your welfare and not for harm, to give you a future with hope.” Jeremiah 29:11 (NRSV)

To share or receive information about Connectional clergy family bereavements and congratulations, please contact the AME Church Clergy Family Information Center. Mrs. Ora L. Easley, administrator • 5981 Hitching Post Lane • Nashville, TN 37211 • 615.833.6936 (CFIC Office) • amecfic.org • facebook.com/AMECFIC

JULY 2021

NECROLOGY LISTINGS

*Purple font connotes Episcopal Family; Red font, General Officers; and Blue font, Connectional Officers.

Mrs. Lois Helen Cyprian, the widow of Presiding Elder Joseph H. Cyprian, Jr., the mother of Mr. Douglas (Pamela) Cyprian of Folsom, Louisiana, and the Rev. Derrick (Chalita) Cyprian of Houston, Texas, and the loving mawmaw to four grandchildren and three great-grandchildren, Eighth Episcopal District Evangelist Martha Ann Alexander, the beloved and cherished mother of the Rev. Willie Alexander, pastor stationed at St. John AMEC, Citra, The “Nurturing” North

Orlando District, Central Annual Conference, Eleventh Episcopal District The Rev. Bongani Shepherd Leonard Jantjies, age 48 years, an itinerant elder for 22 years, serving several churches; he was the first presiding elder of the newly organized Makone Presiding Elder District and was the chairperson of the Board of Examiners of The Cape Annual Conference, Fifteenth Episcopal District

The Rev. Alan White, pastor of Campbell’s Chapel AMEC in Virginia Beach, VA (Norfolk Eastern Shore District), Second Episcopal District; husband of Mrs. Debra White and the son of the Rev. Willie (Esther) White, retired pastor in the Virginia Conference Mrs. Patricia Jefferson, widow of the late Rev. H. E. Jefferson, former pastor in the Virginia Conference of the Second Episcopal District; mother of the Rev. Andre P. Jefferson, Sr., wellknown pastor of Bethel

AMEC, Hampton, VA and the grandmother of the Rev. Andre P. Jefferson, Jr., pastor of New Mount Olive AMEC in Chesapeake, VA The Reverend Floyd Nedab, Jr., age 91, retired itinerant elder, a member of Emanuel AME Church, Portsmouth, VA, and former pastor of St. Luke AME Church, Daughety, VA and Bethel AMEC, Eastville, a faithful pastor in the Virginia Conference, Second Episcopal District, survived by his wife, Mrs. Cornelia Nedab, and children: Mrs. Martha

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White, Mr. Floyd Nedab III, Mr. Jerry Parks, Mr. Harry C. Elliott, Jr., Ms. Jada Elliott, Ms. Temple Nedab, and Mr. Cornel Nedab along with several grandchildren

Mr. Kenneth Ray Howard, Jr., the son of the Rev. Linda C. Igwebuike, pastor of Quinn Chapel AME Church, Fort Smith, AR, Twelfth Episcopal District

Sister Joyce Gwendolyn Hanum Corpening, 91, the mother of the Rev. Gwendolyn Minor, pastor of Macedonia AMEC, Carrollton, Virginia, and the late Reverend Richard Corpening, other surviving family members include Kim (Jonice) of NC, Gary (Loretta) of TN, daughter-n-law Lori of NC, 15 grandchildren and 18 great-grandchildren

Brother Travis Lynard Foster, the son of the Rev. Edna Dingle-Stokes, pastor of St. James (Wando) African Methodist Episcopal Church, Mt. Pleasant District, Palmetto Annual Conference of the Seventh Episcopal District of the AME Church

The Rev. Dr. Lonnie Johnson, widower of Sister Grace Johnson, who served the African Methodist Episcopal Church with distinction in many capacities, to include president of Shorter College, presiding elder of the Oklahoma Conference, and pastor of many congregations Mrs. Sheila Davis Webster, wife of the Rev. Wendell C. Webster, pastor of Mount Zion AME Church, Daytona Beach, Florida, and daughter-in-law of Bishop Robert V. Webster Mr. Jeffrey Taylor, Sr., the son-in-law of Sister Dianne Battle, director of Public Relations of the Connectional Lay Organization of the African Methodist Episcopal Church

Sister Marilyn CrawfordRivers of Eufaula, Alabama, the mother of the Rev. Angie Crawford Cox, first lady of Mount Calvary AMEC, Towson, Maryland and the mother-inlaw of the Rev. Bobby B. Cox, Jr., Second Episcopal District The Reverend Percy L. Jones, retired pastor of the Ninth Episcopal District, AME Church Dr. Stanley McKenzie, retired Episcopal supervisor and former NBA player (19442021), husband of Bishop Vasthi Murphy McKenzie, the 117th elected and consecrated bishop of the African Methodist Episcopal Church Mr. Steve Fugh, member of New Tyler AME Church, Memphis, TN, and the brother of Bishop Clement W. Fugh,

AUGUST 2021

presiding prelate of the Fifth Episcopal District, African Methodist Episcopal Church Mother Helena Hall Boykin, life member of the Women’s Missionary Society of the AME Church, Sunday School superintendent for several decades, wife of the Rev. Robert D. Boykin (retired pastor, North Carolina Conference), the loving mother of the Rev. Ronald A. Boykin (Helen) pastor, Seaton Memorial AME Church of Lanham, MD, William O. Boykin (Marie) - past General Board member and Helena Highsmith (Joseph) Brother John Booker, Jr., the son of the Rev. John Booker, Sr., pastor of New Hope (Mountville) African Methodist Episcopal Church, Greenville District, Piedmont Annual Conference of the Seventh Episcopal District of the AME Church Mr. Charles Doughty, Sr., the father of Mrs. Irene P. Montague, first lady of the Baltimore District of the Baltimore Conference of the Second Episcopal District, and the treasurer of CONNM-SWAWO +PKs, and the father-in-law of Presiding Elder Ernest L. Montague, Sr. Mr. Lee Autry Pauley, the father of the Rev. Sarah Green, pastor of the Shiloh Circuit, West

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Arkansas Conference, Twelfth Episcopal District The Rev. Mary Alice Miller, a retired minister in the Arkansas Annual Conference, a member of St. Mark AME Church, Osceola, AR, Twelfth Episcopal District The Rev. Dr. Sidney W. Williams, Jr., presiding elder emeritus, Portsmouth Richmond Roanoke District, Virginia Conference; husband of Mrs. Helen G. Williams, father of Mr. S. Wesley Williams III, General Board of the African Methodist Episcopal Church, mentor to many clergypersons and a loving counselor Sister Tosha Meridi, the daughter of the Rev. Gail Meridian, pastor of Christ AME Church in Central Trinidad; the Rev. Meridian also serves as the Sixteenth District Christian Education Director Brother Byron Lee Byfield (November 9, 1963 - July 25, 2021), the father of the Rev. Aldean Byfield, pastor of St. Matthew’s AME Church in St. Catherine, Jamaica; husband to Caseta Byfield, a lifetime member of St. John AME Church, Clarendon, Jamaica and father of Alecia Byfield, former Sixteenth District YPD president

Condolences to the bereaved are expressed on behalf of Publications Commission chair Bishop Vashti McKenzie, president/publisher of the AMEC Publishing House (Sunday School Union) Rev. Roderick D. Belin and editor of The Christian Recorder, Mr. John Thomas III. “Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.” Matthew 5:4 (NRSV) To share or receive information about Connectional clergy family bereavements and congratulations, please contact the AME Church Clergy Family Information Center. Mrs. Ora L. Easley, Administrator • 5981 Hitching Post Lane • Nashville, TN 37211 • 615.833.6936 (CFIC Office) • amecfic.org •facebook.com/AMECFIC

AMEC VOLUNTEER RECRUITMENT ANNOUNCEMENT AUGUST 2021 The AME Church and the Alzheimer’s Association in partnership since 2019 have been spearheading webinars, events, and meetings that focus on bringing information and resources to our members and the community. To further support these efforts we are planning to expand AME-hosted education programs and support groups to reach more people in more communities based on feedback from community listening sessions.

AME members are being sought to become faith outreach representatives, community educators, or support group leaders. Utilize the links below to learn more about each volunteer role as described below: AME Community Educator position description: https://drive.google.com/file/ d/12u5uCINwNdMJCoNHPcJe14NmYEL1ZWgH/view AME Faith Outreach Representative position description: https://drive.google.

com/file/d/1FNwXD1eqk9-lk71rKjDlx_ DCHFO-fBIM/view AME Support Group Facilitator position description: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1fVbKzZiJaDc4urK8q0Ah22PZs4vMTbv/view Initial onboarding will be offered through the Alzheimer’s Association’s online community with an AME-specific mentorship session hosted by individuals who are both AME members and ALZ volunteers during the week of September 13th20th. Times for the mentorship session will be announced later this month.

To apply to become an AME/Alzheimer’s Association volunteer, please visit https://volunteer.alz.org/volunteeropportunities/amec. If you have any questions, please contact Alzheimer’s Association, director of DEI Engagement Beverly Berry. ❏ ❏ ❏

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AUGUST 2021

The Christian Recorder

THECHRISTIANRECORDER.COM

The Christian Recorder

THECHRISTIANRECORDER.COM

AUGUST 2021

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AUGUST 2021

The Christian Recorder

THECHRISTIANRECORDER.COM

EDITORIAL

BEING RESILIENT AND HAVING RESOLVE. THAT’S NEW ORLEANS.

By James B. Ewers, Jr., Ed.D.

Tough times don’t last, but tough people do is a time-honored expression. As you grow in years that phrase takes on more significance.

Senior soldiers often say if nothing has happened to you, just keep on living.

We are all getting ready for a storm, in a storm, or went through a storm.

That is the living of life we will all have to experience.

None of us are exempt.

Recently, the city of New Orleans prepared for a storm, went through a storm, and is now getting out of a storm.

I live in New Orleans, and I am proud to be here. It is without a doubt one of the most exciting cities in the world.

Being on the Gulf Coast means having a hurricane season each year.

The hurricane season begins in June and ends in November.

The tropical disturbance forecast is always a signal for us. When we hear it is headed into the Gulf of Mexico, our senses are heightened and our antennas go up, I mean way up.

The preparation for a Gulf

disturbance means stocking up on supplies. The basics are necessary.

The provisions in some ways depend upon the storm and the status of the evacuation.

During these storms, sometimes we stay and other times, we go.

It also depends upon whether we have lights and power. Some people use generators. However, reports suggest that unless you use them properly, you may pass away.

Hurricane Ida reached the Louisiana coast on Monday, August 26th. There was heavy rain. The wind speed when it made landfall was approximately 150 miles per hour.

Some residents decided to leave the city, and some chose to shelter in place. We left.

When you evacuate a city, there is anxiety and apprehension attached to it. Staying away from your home under these circumstances is emotional.

Because of transformer and electrical problems, the city of New Orleans went dark shortly after the hurricane.

Remaining residents had no power.

Everything stopped in the Crescent City.

Memories of Hurricane Katrina

started to creep into the minds of many whether you stayed in New Orleans or you did not. Katrina is still a defining moment in the history of New Orleans.

The difference in my opinion between Katrina and Ida is that we were better prepared, and the levees did not break. The levees held which meant there was minimal flooding in the city.

Power has been restored back to New Orleans. The lights are on, and people are returning to the city.

The circumstances were ripe for our people to give up, but we became stronger and more courageous. These are intangible qualities that have been passed down from previous generations.

It is an unspeakable sense of faith and stamina that permeates the culture here.

My wife and in-laws are native New Orleanians. I am inspired and motivated by them. They don’t give up and they refuse to give in, no matter the conditions.

So now, Hurricane Ida has moved on after creating a path of destruction in our state. Some areas were ravaged by this storm.

James B. Ewers Jr. Guest Editorial

It is now time to rebuild and to restock.

FEMA has set up hotlines and call centers. President Joe Biden visited the state. He is behind the state’s efforts to rebuild.

So, we are picking ourselves back up again. This will not be the last hurricane. That is a fact of life.

New Orleans is a city made up of residents who do not give in to fear.

We give in to faith.

There is a scripture about having faith. When you can, read Luke 17:6. ❏❏❏

This sentiment is echoed by the first African American senator from GA, Sen. Raphael Warnock, one of two Georgia Democrats that handed his party the majority with surprising wins in January. According to Politico, Sen. Warnock spoke to Manchin and said he was “hopeful” to win over the moderate Democrat.

“Joe Manchin understands that this is a defining moment in American history.”

Democrats need to focus on winning in 2022 and 2023, and the berating of Joe Manchin will not help, but working with him seems like a winning strategy. But Democrats seems to be paying the price now for not investing more seriously in helping Mike Espy’s Senate run in Mississippi or developing a better strategy – specific to the local Maine sensibilities – for knocking off Susan Collins. Or for not hewing to Howard Dean’s dictum from the years he served as DNC Chair leading up to the 2008 election that the Dems need to have a 50-state strategy.

Ultimately, we need both parties devoid of extremes. While there are some sensible Republicans like former GOP Chairman Micheal Steele and Rep. Adam Kinzinger (R-IL-1) attempting to save the Grand Old Party, in my view, the Republican Party is too far gone. Perhaps a third party is what American politics truly needs. However, in the meantime, the Democrats need to figure out a better way to work with the senior senator from West Virginia, or we continue to lose as a country and as a people. ...From Why the Democrats p23

Quardricos Bernard Driskell is a federal lobbyist, an adjunct professor of legislative politics at The George Washington University Graduate School of Political Management. Follow him on Twitter @q_driskell4. ...From City of Charleston p14 and it brings love to me heart, and that’s where I have found peace. The contributions being provided by the city of Charleston is more than we

could have ever imagined. It is such a self-less act of kindness and illustrates how personally important this project is to the city.” – Ina Jackson McBean, granddaughter of Mrs. Susie J. Jackson, one of the Emanuel Nine ✍ “Once again are overwhelmed by the support this city and community has extended to the memory of our sister. Thank you for being a beacon of hope.” – The family of Cynthia Graham Hurd, one of the Emanuel Nine *Editor’s Note: For high-resolution renderings of the Emanuel Nine Memorial, visit: https://bit.ly/3zlzUgL. About the Mother Emanuel Memorial Foundation Board The Mother Emanuel Memorial Foundation Board was established as an independent 501(c)(3) organization to support the mission of building the Emanuel Nine Memorial. The Board manages the fundraising, construction, endowment, and outreach for the memorial.

Emanuel Nine Memorial Media Contact: Lou Hammond Group Mother Emanuel Memorial Foundation Contact: Kelsey Donnelly Kimberlyn Davis, Executive Director 843.628.3426 704.649.1399 ❏ ❏ ❏