The Christian Index - July 2024

The Christian Index The Official Organ of the Christian Methodist Episcopal Church • July 2024

South F lorida D istrict A ward R ecipients

THE CHRISTIAN INDEX

The Official Publication Christian Methodist Episcopal Church Copyright © 2024 Offices are Housed in The International Headquarters Memphis, Tennessee Contact the Editor at (901) 515-6510 E-mail: ChristianIndex@thecmechurch.org 1700 Whisperwood Street, Albany GA 31721 Contact Circulations/Subscriptions Office at (901) 396-5400 EDITOR Dr. Ore L. Spragin, Jr. PUBLISHER Dr. Roderick D. Lewis, Sr. EDITORIAL BOARD Chairman Bishop C. Kelby Heath PUBLISHING BOARD Chairman Bishop Kenneth W. Carter THE CHRISTIAN INDEX (0744-4060; USPS 0108320) is published monthly by The CME Publishing House.

Periodicals Postage is paid at Memphis, Tennessee, and at additional entry offices. Postal records are maintained at: The CME Department of Publications, Dr. Roderick D. Lewis, Sr. General Secretary, 4237 Elvis Presley Blvd., Memphis, Tennessee 38116. POSTMASTER: Send Address Changes to The CME Publishing House, 4237 Elvis Presley Blvd., Memphis, TN 38116. THE SUBSCRIPTION RATE IS $30 for one year. Subscriptions should be sent to Office of the Publisher: The Christian Index, 4237 Elvis Presley Blvd., Memphis, TN 38116. The Publisher’s telephone number is (901) 396-5400. ARTICLES FOR PUBLICATION should be sent to Dr. Ore L. Spragin, Jr., Editor, THE CHRISTIAN INDEX, 1700 Whisperwood Street, Albany, GA 31721 or to: ChristianIndex@thecmechurch.org.

The Editor's office number is (901) 515-6510. COST FOR REPRODUCTION OF PICTURES is $20 per photo; payment (to Department of Publications) must accompany mailed article, and pictures will not be returned. Members and friends of the Christian Methodist Episcopal Church are encouraged to submit articles for possible publication in THE CHRISTIAN INDEX, the Official Publication of the CME Church.

No compensation is made for articles published and no articles will be considered that have been submitted simultaneously to another publication or published by any other publication. Articles submitted will not be returned. Articles submitted and printed will become the property of THE CHRISTIAN INDEX with all rights assigned to the Christian Methodist Episcopal Church. THE CHRISTIAN INDEX was established in 1867 and has been in continuous publication since. It is the Official Organ of the Christian Methodist Episcopal Church, a member magazine of the Associated Church Press, and a subscriber to Religion News Service. Views expressed by the editor and/or other writers are personal opinions and do not necessarily reflect the official views of the Christian Methodist Episcopal Church.

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The Christian Index • July 2024

Inside The Christian Index Quadrennial Theme: "Be Bold: Face Now, Embrace Next, See New"

Volume 157, Number 7

July 2024

Connectional Interests Episcopacy 4 Dept. of Finance/Investments 6 2024 CME Calendar of Events 14 Dept. of Evangelism/Missions 15 Dept. of Christian Education/Formation 16 Ministers' Spouses, Widows/Widowers 18 CME-Affiliated Schools Miles College Reaffirmation 19 Paine College Receives Major Gifts 20 Submissions That We May Be One 21 Sisters Serve in AKA 250+ Years 24 Autism Sunday 27 Hope Is Here 29 South Florida Makes the Dream Work 31 God Speaks 34 Anna Kemp Marches in National Parade 36 Children/Youth 37 Ecumenical Pastoral Message to Protesting Students 39 The Impact of 'Separate but Equal' 40 Connectional Directory 47

Cover: South Florida District award recipients. Story on page 31.

Photographs: Photos are by contributors to The Christian Index and Index staff.

Submitted to the Publisher: June 18, 2024

Editorial

Church and State vs. Religion and Politics It is often said that here in America there is a policy of separation of the institutions of church and state. Nevertheless, because of the wide influence of the church as a whole and of individual churches, either as denominations or as mega-churches, politicians court the church to gain votes and to exert influence and even power. This is nothing new. Also not new is the desire of some churches and church bodies or leaders to exert influence on the politics of the nation. Even the founder of Methodism, John Wesley, had some things to say about the politics Rev. Dr. Ore L. Spragin, Jr., Editor of his country and American politics, though he was not eligible to vote in his own country and was not a citizen or colonist in this country.

What I want to say here is that while there may be a real or imagined separation of the institutions of church and state, there can be no separation of religion and politics. Both the church and the state intersect with and must deal with the issues and lives of the people and of the society which they constitute. People are affected by laws, and people make laws. Many of these lawmakers are members of churches, and many of those affected (both for good and bad) by their actions and these laws are also members of churches.

The Bible teaches that Christians are to respect, be subject to, and pray for political leaders, judges, and peace officers. This is religion. The Bible teaches Christians to care for people who are homeless, orphans, widows, elderly, sick, imprisoned, hungry, naked, strangers, and generally in need. This is religion. The Bible instructs Christians to treat each person with dignity and without regard to wealth or social status, loving all persons as God has loved us in Christ, especially those who are of the household of faith. This is religion.

Politics, on the other hand, plays a game of back-washing and handwashing. To boost their egos, to gain status, or for financial or political gain, politicians often do not seek the good of the populace but of their own base or party only.

Politics often runs counter to or conflicts with religion, especially when religion (Christianity) is attempted to be faithfully practiced by one who is a politician. Sometimes conflict occurs unnecessarily because some politicians behave unethically.

At other times it occurs simply because not all citizens are Christians and therefore do not have the same values, goals, or approach to life. Compromise must come into the picture. Nevertheless, compromise, in, does not have to mean ethics, out.

Throughout our history, we have been able to see blatant disparities in the execution of American politics and justice. People of color have almost always seen them because we have been victims of them. Yes, there are exceptions, thank God, but disparity should not be the norm.

The latest and most visible example of confusion between church and state, and religion and politics, is the conviction of a former president as a felon who is legally allowed to run for that same office again, while many other convicted felons are not even allowed to vote and are often summarily not accepted for or are dismissed from even menial jobs, even though they have already fulfilled their punishment. Mercy and justice seem to be unevenly weighed. The state holds this is legal, and many in the church are glad about it. But the politics is strange, and people of religion are being used as pawns in the game, sometimes willingly. May those who desire to practice Biblical religion in politics have the will and gain vision as to how to do so with integrity by faith.

Mission Statement of the Christian Methodist Episcopal Church The mission of the Christian Methodist Episcopal Church is to be disciples of Jesus the Christ by serving individuals, communities and the world as the representative, loving presence of God and as witnesses to God’s salvation and grace.

Vision Statement of the Christian Methodist Episcopal Church The vision of the Christian Methodist Episcopal Church is to be a transforming church for Jesus the Christ within a changing world.

July 2024 • The Christian Index

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Connectional Interests

Episcopacy

OFFICIAL NOTICE: General Connectional Board 2024 Pursuant to ¶1000.6, §2, of The Book of Discipline, Revised 2022, the 2024 General Connectional Board, previously scheduled for Dallas, Texas, during the week of the Unity Summit, will meet Monday and Tuesday, September 2-3, 2024, beginning at 10:00 A.M. Central Daylight Time at the same site as the Unity Summit – Sheraton Dallas Hotel, 400 Olive Street, Dallas, Texas 75201.

General Connectional Board members are requested to reserve the dates of September 2nd-3rd for the General Connectional Board meeting, and to expect a call for the Standing Committees and other committee meetings from the respective Chairs of each Standing Committee or the Senior Bishop for other committees.

While we anticipate a full day (morning, afternoon, evening) schedule for the first day, we anticipate a morning to early afternoon (about 3:00 - 4:00 adjournment) for the morning and afternoon of the second day, but we will adjourn after all business is completed.

Bishop Marvin Frank Thomas, General Chair, Unity Summit Bishop Lawrence Reddick Senior Bishop

OFFICIAL NOTICE Upon authority set forth in ¶ 203 of The Book of Discipline, Revised 2022, the College of Bishops is calling a Special Session of the General Conference of the Christian Methodist Episcopal Church for Saturday, June 13, 2026, at 9:00 A.M. Central Daylight Time at the Hilton Anatole Hotel, 2330 N. Stemmons Fwy, Dallas, Texas 75207. This Special Session is pursuant to and in facilitation of the 41st General Conference and 40th Quadrennial Session of the General Conference hereby called for Saturday, June 13, 2026, at 10:00 A.M. Central Daylight Time at the same location. + Senior Bishop Lawrence Reddick, May 19, 2024

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The Christian Index • July 2024

Connectional Interests

Episcopacy

Bishop Adjei Receives Plaque Offered by Bishop Kwame Lawson Adjei On May 24th, 2024, I was honoured by Mfantsiman Girls Senior High School, which is the largest grade A female high school in Ghana with a citation that reads: "MFANTSIMAN GIRLS SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL CITATION IN HONOUR OF BISHOP LAWSON K. ADJEI (P.T.A. CHAIRMAN, BOARD MEMBER; 2016-2023) "You became a Board member of Mfantsiman Girls Senior High School from February, 2016 to February, 2023. As a man of God and a parent representative on the school board, your religious inclination had a positive impact on the entire school community. Your commitment to making sure that there was a good inter-personal relationship among the school management, staff, parents and students was commendable. You were sober-minded, respectable, hospitable and patient. You were an epitome of knowledge which was brought to bear on the activities of the School Board. Mfantsiman Girls Appreciate your contribution to the development of the school. OSOFO, MBO NA EDWIMA PA." 1st Lady Mercy, the love of my life, thank you for being there to support me in receiving this award.

Who else could have done this? Only God my maker. To Him Alone Be The Glory!!!

July 2024 • The Christian Index

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Connectional Interests

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The Christian Index • July 2024

Department of Finance and Investment

Connectional Interests

Department of Finance and Investment

How to Submit Material to The Christian Index 1. Articles and pictures may be sent via email to the Editor at: ChristianIndex@thecmechurch.org .

2. Format for text may be either MSWord or PDF. Format for pictures may be JPEG, BMP, TIFF, or PNG. 3. If you include a scripture or quote, also include the Bible version or source. Please include a copy of permission to use copyrighted material.

4. Typed submissions are much easier to process than handwritten manuscripts.

5. There is no charge for submissions that DO NOT contain pictures. There IS a charge for pictures.

6. Payments for pictures ($20.00 per picture) should be sent at the same time as submissions. If you are sending the article by email, a PayPal invoice will be sent to you by the Editor.

7. Mailed payments should be made payable to "Department of Publications" and sent to the Editor at: 1700 Whisperwood Street, Albany GA 31721.

8. Payments will be submitted to the Department of Publications by the Editor.

9. Preference is given to material that is not more than three months old. The Editor is making every attempt to keep the magazine filled with relevant information.

10. For questions or concerns regarding the content of The Christian Index or the digital edition, please contact the Editor.

11. For all other concerns, you should contact the Publisher.

July 2024 • The Christian Index

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Connectional Interests

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The Christian Index • July 2024

Department of Finance and Investment

Connectional Interests

Department of Finance and Investment

July 2024 • The Christian Index

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Connectional Interests

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The Christian Index • July 2024

Department of Finance and Investment

Connectional Interests

Department of Finance and Investment

Directors of Children and Youth Work YOU ARE ENCOURAGED to submit articles from your Children and Youth to The Christian Index.

These may be thoughts on their Christian journey, reports on church or school trips, and even book reports or original poems and essays.

Email to: ChristianIndex@thecmechurch.org

July 2024 • The Christian Index

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Connectional Interests

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The Christian Index • July 2024

Department of Finance and Investment

Connectional Interests

Department of Finance and Investment

"Questioning is an act of awareness."

--Tatiana Bilbao

Subscribe to The Christian Index Only $30.00 per Year Call Rev. Dr. Roderick Lewis, Sr., Publisher, at 901-396-5400 July 2024 • The Christian Index

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July 1-5, 2024 - Connectional Youth & Young Adult Conference; Sheraton Four Seasons, Greensboro, NC July 10-12, 2024 - Birmingham Region Annual Conference; Southside CME Church, 713 Martin Luther King Jr. Drive, Birmingham AL 35211 July 10-12, 2024 - East Tennessee Region Annual Conference; Blairs Chapel, Jackson TN July 10-12, 2024 - New York-Washington Region Annual Conference; New Bethel, Rochester NY July 10-13, 2024 - East Texas Region Annual Conference; Mt. Pleasant Civic Center; Mt. Pleasant TX July 11-13, 2024 - South Georgia Region Annual Conference; Cray Chapel CME Church, 1918 Oak Haven Drive, Albany GA 31721 July 14-17, 2024 – Carolina Regions Annual Conference; Columbia SC July 15-17, 2024 - Southeast Alabama Region Annual Conference; Stewart Memorial CME Church, 1266 Dr Martin Luther King Jr Avenue, Mobile AL 36603 July 16-18, 2024 - Fourth Episcopal District Regions Joint Annual Conference; The Landers Center; Southaven MS July 17-19, 2024 - Kentucky Region Annual Conference; Freeman Chapel CME Church, Hopkinsville KY July 17-19, 2024 - West Tennessee Region Annual Conference; New Hope CME Church, Henning TN July 17-20, 2024 - Southeast Texas Region Annual Conference; Holiday Inn, Beaumont TX July 18-20, 2024 - Oklahoma Region Annual Conference; Oklahoma City OK July 18-20, 2024 - West Georgia Region Annual Conference; Holsey Monumental CME Church, 6028 Buena Vista Road, Columbus GA 31907 July 19-21, 2024 - Tanzania Region Annual Conference July 21-24, 2024 - Third Episcopal District Regions Joint Annual Conference; Detroit Metro Airport Hotel; Detroit MI July 22-24, 2024 - North Central Alabama Region Annual Conference, Bailey Tabernacle CME Church, 1117 23rd Avenue, Tuscaloosa AL 35401 July 24-26, 2024 - Ohio-Central Indiana Annual Conference; St. John CME Church, Akron OH July 24-27, 2024 - Dallas/Ft Worth/NW Texas Region Annual Conference; Doubletree near Galleria, Dallas TX July 25-27, 2024 - Central Georgia Region Annual Conference; St. Paul CME Church, 1601 Barnard Street, Savannah GA 31401 14

The Christian Index • July 2024

Connectional Interests

Department of Evangelism and Missions

B E B O L D : F ac e N o w - E m b r ac e N ex t- S ee N ew The Scriptures Mark 16 :15 He s ai d to them , “ G o i nto al l the w o r l d and p r eac h the os e to a ea on Jeremiah 1:7 -8 t the o sai to e, o not sa , a too o n Y o u m u s t g o to ev er y o ne I s end y o u to and s ay w hatev er I c o m m and o o not e a ai o the , o a with o an wi es e o , e a es the o Isaiah 6 :8 T hen I hear d the v o i c e o f the L o r d s ay i ng , “ W ho m s hal l I sen n who wi o o s n sai , e e a en e

THE PR ACTICE W hen c o ns i der i ng the m i s s i o n e , i t i s i m p o r tant to v i ew m i s s i o ns thr o u g h the l ens o f the p eo p l e and o ni es ein se e nstea o t in to han e how othe s i e o t thei aith, the oa sho e to o i e he an s o t, i in the eso es that o has o i e th o h i in o a i a n in issions W e s ho u l d nev er ex p ec t w hat w e do i n the U S to b e the o nl y w ay and ev er y o ne el s e i s i nc o r r ec t I wo i e to sha e a ea e a e that ha ene on one o o ission t i s o tsi e o the nite tates S ev er al p eo p l e i n the g r o u p o n the on i ons n ea a e f o r them s el v es and b eg an to m u r m u r and c o m p l ai n The so ht to han e what the i ndi g eno u s p eo p l e had do ne f o r y ear s THE CHALLENGE T hi s a t e m ade the m i s s i o n tr i p i t b ec au s e o f thei r v i ew thr o u g h a W es ter n l ens i n an E as ter n env i r o nm ent i t, they di s r eg ar ded the w ay p eo p l e l i v e thr o u g h and o u t thei aith T hey w er e tr y i ng to c hang e anothe s c u l tu r e to m ak e them se es o o ta e T her ef o r e, w e s ho u l d no t hav e p i ty , b e s o r r y f o r o r e en s athi e with those who a e i in i e ent than s, t r ather , w e s ho u l d hav e em p athy , c o m p as s i o n, and l o v e i n o u r hear ts to do the m i s s i o n w o r k that i s r eq u i r ed to s ho w the l o v e o f G o d to e e one THE PR AY ER L o r d, hel p m e nev er to tr y to c hang e p eo p l e, b u t to b e a l i g ht s ho w i ng f o r th the w ay o f ho l i nes s , and r i g hteo u s nes s w i th hu m i l i ty that s o m eo ne m ay c o m e to k no w y o u r r edeem i ng Q u al i ty an a a on n es s s N am e, A m en We are The Christian Methodist Episcopal Church recognizing the importance of Christ in our daily lives. e eon C Moo e, ene a e eta o E an e is an Missions n e son Cha e CME, o in s, M

July 2024 • The Christian Index

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Connectional Interests

Department of Christian Education/Formation

Medical Ministry-Why it is Needed in our Churches?

By Carmen Echols

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The Christian Index • July 2024

Connectional Interests

Department of Christian Education/Formation

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(From "The Practitioner, Summer 2023 Edition." A publication of the General Department of Christian Education and Formation of the Christian Methodist Episcopal Church. Used by permission.)

July 2024 • The Christian Index

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Connectional Interests

Ministers' Spouses, Widows/Widowers

Judgment vs. Judgmental Submitted by Andrea Couch, M.S., LCASA, President and Episcopal District Representative, Carolina Region Ministers' Spouses Widows/Widowers Dept.

Seventh Episcopal District

Often, we as people look at a person, an object or a situation and pass judgment. We can look at someone driving an old model vehicle with visual damage and assume they are not financially stable or cannot afford a vehicle in better condition. We can look at someone that dresses well, and carries and conducts themselves as a lady or gentleman, and some would view them as being ‘stuck up,’ ‘bougie,’ ‘conceited,’ or ‘snooty.’

In the church, if one strives to live a Christian life, style, they may be referred to as a ‘holy roller’ or ‘holier than thou.’ Could it be that we are imposing our own thoughts or insecurities on others, or deflecting attention from our own flaws? None of us are perfect.

Have you ever thought that the person driving the old model vehicle used wisdom and preferred to invest their finances in something that will appreciate, instead of depreciating once it is purchased?

Did you consider that the well-dressed and well-behaved man or woman was taught as a child that ‘toys won’t keep you warm in the winter or cool in the summer,’ or was taught to ‘keep yourself presentable, well-groomed and conduct yourself like a lady or gentleman?’ I have heard the phrase, ‘Never judge a book by its cover without taking the time to read the story.’

The Merriam-Webster Dictionary (Webster) defines ‘judgmental’ as expressing unfavorable judgments about things. The Bible teaches us that we should not judge. As it states “Do not judge and criticize and condemn [others unfairly with an attitude of self-righteous superiority as though assuming the office of a judge], so that you will not be judged [unfairly]. For just as you [hypocritically] judge others [when you are sinful and unrepentant], so will you be judged; and in accordance with your standard of measure [used to pass out judgement], judgement will be measured to you.” Matthew 7:1-2 AMP Webster also defines ‘judgment’ as the ability to judge and decide with soundness, prudence, and intelligence. In addition, the Bible also teaches us to have good judgment as it states, “Do not judge by appearance [superficially and arrogantly] but judge fairly and righteously.”

Christ wants us to have good judgment but not to be judgmental.

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The Christian Index • July 2024

Connectional Interests

CME-Affiliated Schools

From: https://www.miles.edu/news/miles-college-celebrates-10-year-reaffirmation-accreditation-accreditation-council-business.

Accessed 6-6-2024.

Miles College Celebrates 10-Year Reaffirmation of Accreditation by Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs Mi es Co e e is th i e to anno n e that the e ita on Co n i o siness hoo s an o a s( C ) oa o Co issione s has ante a ea ea a on o a e ita on o the Mi es Co e e s i ision o siness an o n n This es io s e o ni on n e s o es o o it ent to e e en e in siness e a on Mi es Co e e e ten s o hea e t a t e to the en e ea e shi tea o Mi es Co e e o thei nwa e in s o t an ha wo in o tainin this ea e ita on This a hie e ent is a testa ent to the e i a on an ha wo o o a t , sta , an st ents, who ha e o e e ont i te to this e o t tea has wo e e ess to ens e that o o a s eet the hi hest stan a s o a it an i o , sai Mohit nan , i ision Chai o siness an o n n This ea a on not on a i ates o e o ts t a so ins i es s to on n e st i in o e e en e in siness e a on Ton a e , o ost o Mi es Co e e, sha e he i e in the a t s a o ish ents a in e i o o o a t e e s o thei e ent ess e i a on Thei ha wo has een inst enta in a hie in this i estone oo o wa to on n in to wo a on si e the esi ent an o ta ente a t to in an eate inno a e i eas an o ess o Mi es Co e e esi ent o ie ni ht e esse he a e ia on to Ton a e an Mohit nan o thei ea e shi an o it ent to e e en e want to e ten ee est a t e to o a t o thei nwa e in e i a on to o st ents an o ins t on e a e oise o on n e a an e ent an o ess to ethe This ea a on is a owe testa ent to o e ess o it ent an ha wo The o owin siness o a s at Mi es Co e e a e a hoo s an o a s( C ) e ee in

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### o t Mi es Co e e o n e in Mi es Co e e is o ate in ai e , a a a e a e a i ate, i e a a ts, isto i a a Co e e with oots in the Ch is an Metho ist E is o a Ch h The Co e e, th o h e i ate a t , ates st ents to see now e e that ea s to inte e t a an i i e owe ent t ents a e t ans o e th o h i o o s st , s ho a in i , an s i it a awa eness, the e ena in a ates to e o e es onsi e i ens who he sha e the o a so iet Mi es Co e e is a e ite the o the n sso ia on o Co e es an hoo s Co ission on Co e es ( C C C) July 2024 • The Christian Index

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Connectional Interests

CME-Affiliated Schools

From: https://www.paine.edu/web/mycampus/home/-/journal_content/56/10217/2043526. Accessed 6-6-2024.

Paine College Announced Major Gifts - Alumni Continue to Rally for Paine The aine Co e e Co nit athe e in s o t o the ea o histo i i e a a ts ins t on in Can e Me o ia i a on Ma , in a ess on e en e to esent a o i s to the ns t on oa Chai an Mi hae Th on , C ass o , esi e o e the e ia on e en e t h an T a ie a o esente $50,000 on eha o the E is M nn ohnson Estate The ohnsons, a ates o aine, we e st on s o te s o aine ni o a oss the o nt athe e in ni e nion ee en (Ma ) to e e ate thei asses in e nion C asses that en in s an s e oneta i s in e ess o $125,000 Chai an Th on in ite a ni o the sta Cha te to stan with hi as he a e the esenta on on eha o ni o owin the esenta on on eha o ni, Chai an Th on esente his he in the a o nt o $25,000 on eha o his ate siste e a Th on an hi se n s Tho as M Cain, too the o i an onate , so, a i ona i s o nae ene ee ( , ) an ois a es ( , ) we e e o te ona ons a e s o in in e in ite a ni an ien s to s o t aine Co e e with oneta i s, eso es, e, an ta ent o wa s to i e, ease onta t the e o ns t ona an e ent at ( ) o e ai e ene Ca te , o ns t ona an e ent, at h a te aine e e a e ion a on t on

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The Christian Index • July 2024

Submissions

‘THAT WE MAY BE ONE’ FEBRUARY 2024 Submitted by Dr. Victor Taylor, CFO

Bishop Ricky Helton, Bishop James Walker, Bishop Charley Hames, Jr., Presiding Elders, Pastors, Lay Leaders, Missionaries, youth, young adults, choirs & Choristers led a most extraordinary summit of all annual conferences of Nigeria featuring 270 congregations and at least 2,500 attendants at Ibom Icon Conference Hall in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria.

The theme was, ‘That We May Be One.’ The event featured the largest declared US delegation entourage at one time in Nigeria – some 36 persons. In addition to the CAO & President/Dean of Phillips School of Theology, Dr. Paul Brown, there were five General Officers in attendance, including: Dr. Ore Spragin, Dr. Leon Moore, Dr. Theresa Duhart, Dr. Pene' Woods, and Dr. Victor Taylor.

Furthermore, the Governor of the State of Akwa Ibom, His Excellency Pastor Umo Bassey Eno, attended and gave greetings. At that time he claimed membership in the CME Church as his own. He pledged to work with the CME Church annually for charitable purposes. It does not go unnoticed that the Governor is a board member of the Breeding Montgomery Bible College. He did not leave until many photos were taken and he donated some 20,000,000 Naira or about $14,000 USD to the Conference. It was among the largest single donations made at one time by one person anywhere in the world at a CME Church conference event.

All praises to God that the youth and young adults are energized and on fire for the Lord. They represent the current and future of the church as they demonstrate talents in song, music, and creative excellence – the very root of “God’s tender plant.” Yes! This is very descriptive of the CME Church in Nigeria. How good it is to dwell together as the people of God in the house of the Lord!

A Star Link satellite uplink service beamed the star children of God all over the world in spectacular brilliance and color with thanks to Dr. Duhart, our CIO. It was especially noteworthy that on one occasion the CIO was unable to attend, the newly formed technology team kept up the service unsupervised without a hitch. It was truly excellent. People were texting real time how they were witnessing us in worship from some 8,000 miles away.

The Lord of the dance gave a special hue of elegance to each day as celebrants cheered the favor of the Lord in music, song, and dance. The Chief Celebrant, Bishop Helton, was in rare form and at one point Continued on next page

"Hugs are actually so underrated, especially those hugs that are so tight you can literally feel the other person's heartbeat and for a moment everything feels so calm and safe like nothing can hurt you."

--David Ghartey July 2024 • The Christian Index

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Submissions Continued from previous page called me over and whispered to me as he gazed upon a supremely energized audience, “Vic, this is unbelievable!!!”

Allow a listing of unprecedented achievements at this Unity Annual Conference: 1) The largest number of parishioners in a single indoor service on the African continent by the CME Church 2) The largest number of clergy and congregations represented 3) The largest USA entourage 4) The first appearance of a sitting Governor, His Excellency, at a CME Church service 5) The largest single donation made in a CME conference service 6) The first worldwide satellite uplink broadcast of a service 7) The largest daily feeding both spiritually and with meals daily of congregants May the Lord continue to greatly bless this divine ministry.

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The Christian Index • July 2024

Submissions

July 2024 • The Christian Index

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Submissions

Sisters Serving over 250 years in Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority All Members of Hines Memorial Submitted by Lucy Hazel Dunn

Five members of Hines Memorial CME Church in Albany, Georgia, represent all levels of membership in Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc., Delta Eta Omega Chapter Inc. effective this year, as they have the only Diamond sister, Mrs. Mary Crawford James, who recently received recognition for reaching 75 years of membership in the sorority. She was initiated into Gamma Sigma Chapter on the campus of Albany State College, now University, in 1949.

Mrs. James has served in many capacities over the years, including Cluster IV Coordinator in the South Atlantic Region. She has served as President of her local chapter, served on multiple committees, and attended numerous regional conferences and Boules, the international meeting of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc. throughout the United States. This 94-year-oldsister remains active in the chapter, currently serving on the Housing Committee, Empowering Our Families, Generation Next, and offering support to the music committee of which she formally served as chairman.

Mrs. James, a lifelong CME, has served under previous pastors, and continues to serve under the leadership of her current pastor, Dr. Ore L. Spragin. Mrs. James organized a children’s choir over fifty years ago and served as church pianist for many years. She has served on the Board of Stewards and on the Board of Christian Education, at one time as its director.

Currently, Mrs. James is active with the Women’s Missionary Society, a member of the weekly Sunday School class, a member of The Strategic Plan [(Bold Steps)] core group at Hines Memorial, and she attends church conferences and quarterly conferences as well as in-person weekly church services.

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The Christian Index • July 2024

Mrs. Mary Crawford James

Mrs. James is a 38-year breast cancer survivor who contributes her longevity to her continued faith in The Master. She is married to Retired U.S. Colonel Rev. Leroy James. This very special senior member has enjoyed retirement as Administrative Assistant to three Presidents at Albany State University since 1990.

A Pearl sister must be a member of the sorority for 65 years to receive recognition. Mrs. Mary Bragg Barnes was initiated into MU Chapter in 1955 at Allen University in Columbia, South Carolina. Mrs. Barnes has served as President of Delta Eta Omega Chapter Inc., Chairman of the Constitution and By -Laws Committee, and as a member of the Executive Board, Program Committee, and Housing Committee.

She continues to enjoy her more than 130 sisters as she continues to contribute to the growth of the ladies who wear their twenty pearls proudly.

She loves her Hines Family and the many opportunities to serve. Mrs. Barnes has served as Recording Steward, President of the Women’s Missionary Society, VBS

Submissions teacher, and Sunday school teacher. She is currently a Steward, member of The Julia Davis Choir, member of the Bold Steps Turnaround Team, member of the Women’s Missionary Society, participant in the Stewardess Ministry Weekly Prayer Line, and weekly Bible Study.

This retired educator appreciates her leisure time and the opportunity to witness to others of the goodness of God. Fifty years of service in Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc. acknowledges this significant Golden Sister, Mrs. Lucy Hazel Dunn, a November 19, 1960, initiate in the Gamma Sigma Chapter of Alpha Kappa Sorority Inc. on the campus of Albany State College, now University. She has served as President, First Vice President, Second Vice President, Secretary and on several committees throughout her years in Delta Eta Omega Chapter Inc. Currently, Mrs. Dunn is a member of the Housing Committee, Protocol Committee, Rituals Committee, and Empowering Our Families, as she continues to provide service to all mankind.

Hines Memorial is blessed to have a servant leader in Lucy Hazel Dunn. Chairman of the Stewards Ministry, President of the Stewardess Ministry, President of the Women’s Missionary Society, church Treasurer, Sunday School teacher, member of the Hines Memorial Strategic Plan Core Group, and Past Regional President of the Missionaries are among the ministries she has allowed God to use her in as a loyal CME. This 1994 retiree served the Dougherty County School System as a math teacher. She also served as an adjunct professor at Albany Technical college. This caregiver, mentor and friend to many, Mrs. Dunn, is still serving and soaring.

A Silver Star Sister is recognized for having reached 25 years of membership in the sorority. Mrs. Shirley W. Vaughn was initiated into Iota Eta Chapter in the fall of 1976 at Mercer University in Macon, Georgia.

During her membership in Delta Eta Omega Chapter Inc., Mrs. Vaughn has served as Reporter, Chaplain, Emerging Young Leaders Advisor, and Mentor for Delta Eta Omega and Gamma Sigma Chapters. She has been a member of the Executive Board, the Program Committee, Hospitality, Empowering Our Families, and has been named Strive To Thrive Volunteer of the Year

(l-r): Mrs. Shirley W. Vaughn, Mrs. Lucy Hazel Dunn, Mrs. Mary Crawford James, Mrs. Mary Bragg Barnes, and Mrs. Wyndolyn J. Edwards.

and Sister of the Year. Currently, she is serving a second term as chapter Chaplain. She loves her sisterhood as they continue to tell their story through service.

Hines Memorial has allowed her to develop over her forty-plus years of membership. She has served as President and Secretary of the Women’s Missionary Society, and taught Vacation Bible School and Sunday school. Mrs. Vaughn serves on the Stewardess Ministry as Chaplain and is Coordinator of the Healthy Choices ministry. She is Chairman of the Commission on Social Justice and Human Concerns, a member of the Strategic Plan Core Group for Hines Memorial, Secretary for the Church Conference and Women’s Missionary Society, leads the weekly Prayer Line, and is a weekly Bible Study member.

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Submissions Continued from previous page The State of Georgia retiree served as a counselor with The Albany Diversion Center. The availability to continue being an agent of change gives her enormous gratification.

The sisters with 24 years and under wear the title Pink and Green as they also share love for our colors that visibly distinguish us from our other Greek sisters whom we love and respect. Mrs. Wyndolyn J. Edwards, a graduate of Albany State College, now University, was initiated into the graduate chapter, Delta Eta Omega Inc. Spring of 2019. Completing this unique circle of sisterhood and servanthood, Mrs. Edwards serves on Empowering Our Families, Hospitality, and the Meditation Committees. She brings a light to the ongoing work we do tirelessly in the name of AKA.

She grew up in Hines Memorial, and her leadership continues as Trustee Board member, President of the Stewardess Ministry, Chaplain for the Regional Stewardesses, member of the Women’s Missionary Society, Strategic Plan Core member for Hines Memorial, Sunday School Teacher, Board of Christian Education and Formation member, and Prayer Line member.

This State of Georgia retiree served as a Service Coordinator.

Grateful to share her gifts and talents, Mrs. Edwards makes the best of each day, giving her best in service.

The Hines Memorial Family is indeed honored for the Diamond, Pearl, Golden, Silver, and Pink and Green women who serve inside the walls and beyond. Their contributions to the church, sorority and community were only touched upon in this article. We thank God for them and all who serve. To God be the Glory.

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The Christian Index • July 2024

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Submissions

AUTISM SUNDAY Submitted by Peris Lester, Pastor

April is Autism Acceptance Month, and on April 21, 2024, Phillips Temple CME Church in Indianapolis, Indiana, celebrated and educated on the gift of Autism. The theme of the worship was, “Autism: Nothing Will Be Impossible for You,” using the scripture, Matthew 17:14-20.

On this particular Sunday, the focus was raising the awareness and also the acceptance of autism in the African American community. Pastor Peris J. Lester, I led the worship with 3 young African American boys who are on the autism spectrum. The guest lecturer was Minister Kimacka T. Randall who led in the discussion. Minister Randall gave a moving presentation on the acceptance and awareness of autism in the African American community.

She highlighted that in the black community, as of 2020, 1 out of 36 children will be diagnosed with autism. During the worship service the members were invited into a panel discussion with three family members who have children with autism, one of them being Pastor Lester who has a child on the spectrum. Each of the panelists shared with the congregation the struggles and the triumphs of raising a child with autism. Minister Randall shared with the congregation that she and her husband have three children who have been diagnosed with autism.

The worship service was [emotionally] moving, as the parents and the pastor shared their stories with transparency on the effects, the denial, and coming to acceptance of the gift that God had given to them with a child who has autism. Each parent shared how [having] children with autism has led them to become more patient, more loving, more understanding, and willing to make the sacrifice to raise their child with this awesome superpower.

After worship there was a birthday celebration for Pastor Lester, and Phillips raised money to support the ongoing work of the Black Autism Support Society (B.A.S.S.).

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Submissions Continued from previous page

"Healing begins the moment you stop pretending you aren't hurt."

--Uzochukwu Uzoeghelu

Subscribe to The Christian Index Only $30.00 per Year Call Rev. Dr. Roderick Lewis, Sr., Publisher, at 901-396-5400 28

The Christian Index • July 2024

Submissions

Hope Is Here!

speaking through other people, some of whom may not be religious or even in Spiritual Practices for Pursuing Justice any way like the listener. Contemplative and Beloved Community praying also involves listening through Book Reviewed by Editor Ore Spragin life's pain, for how hope speaks through pain. The chapter closes with the injunction that contemplative praying Hope Is Here is the latest offering means moving from contemplation to from CME author and professor Luther action.

E. Smith, Jr. in which the author aims to The second discipline is prophetic re-present the concept of hope to readers remembering. "Prophetic remembering ... as not just an ideal fantasy but a possible is submission to the authority and meaning Dr. Luther E. Smith, Jr. reality, not just for the life to come but of what we remember." This includes also and especially for life in this present creating systems or employing current world, not as something provided by someone else but systems within the community that remember not as something pursued by and generated from within only the past but also the future, that is, that there is a a person. The book is divided into seven chapters. future community on the horizon that will be affected The first two define what hope is, and the last five by how those in the present time live in or fail to live present what Luther Smith calls spiritual practices. in hope. The reader is cautioned against omissions in Although his discussion of them does not fit neatly remembering as such "forgetting is often an intentional within descriptions of what are normally considered way to misinterpret the past." Dr. Smith points traditional spiritual practices or disciplines, they out that the Sabbath is a special day and time for are nonetheless offered with the assurance that they promote the development and actualization of hope within oneself and within larger communities of which one is a part.

If there is a succinct definition of hope offered

by Smith, it might be that hope is the dream that God has for all of creation, a dream in which humans play an integral and critical role. He invites the reader to "recognize and respond to hope as a force of God that enlivens us to life." Thus, hope is not something that is received passively without participation. There must be a journeying quest for hope, involving songs of remembrance and inspiration, invitations to others to join us, and stories that help us to navigate the tensions along the way. Smith challenges one's view of oneself, as well as one's perception of the world, saying that hope must be built and lived both within oneself and in the beloved community (the created environment).

The first discipline is that of contemplative praying. "We become hopeful in experiencing intimacy with God in prayer." Hope speaks because the Divine speaks to us, and we can hear the Divine speak within us if we are still and quiet enough to listen. Contemplative praying helps a person to hear otherwise indiscernible hope, and an increasing ability to listen increases hope. The author reminds the reader that this also includes an ability to listen for God Continued on next page July 2024 • The Christian Index

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Submissions Continued from previous page remembering and that the Biblical prophets spoke on the basis of the past and present for the present and for the future. He therefore offers that prophetic remembering helps to provide direction for action.

The third discipline is crossing identity boundaries. In this chapter Luther Smith delves into the development of identity. Critical questions relative to the discussion are Who am I? and What am I? Hope is based on an understanding of oneself and on who God desires us to be. He therefore raises questions related to defining boundary markers and emphasizes that whatever and wherever boundaries exist, they must be crossed if hope is to be genuinely pursued. He adds that in the face of boundaries, hope declares that it is possible to do and to be what is not yet existent.

It is significant that it is in this chapter that significant space is given to telling the stories of others.

Chapter six covers the discipline of transforming conflict. Dr. Smith immediately prepares the foundation stating that conflict is something that cannot be avoided in life, nor should avoidance be sought. Neither is healthy; neither fosters justice or hope. "Fortunately, when we embrace conflict, we embrace an option that liberates our true selves and guides us towards beloved community." Forgiveness is named a crucial part of transforming conflict, and the author reveals it as most helpful to the one who is giving forgiveness, regardless of whether forgiveness is accepted or even requested by the offending person or party. Ultimately, love is the agent that transforms conflict into hope. Befriending conflict opens a person to embracing other people and to building beloved community.

The final chapter is dedicated to the discipline of celebrating community. If the purpose of hope is to

enliven us (a term used often by Smith), community is where it happens. "Community is essential for identity, purposeful living, and vitality." Community includes all creation, not only human beings."

"Celebrating community is a zestful time that recalls a community's identity, journey, and forthcoming promise." How the call to celebrate is issued, and who and how people are invited to participate rather than just come and observe, are important elements to successful celebration. Further, celebration includes the benediction, the release to be a blessing, as well as the call to gather. Finally, the appearances of beloved community at various times does not mean the need for hope has been eliminated. Life is in flux, and hope always begins with self and with a vision of God's dream for humanity.

Luther Smith, Jr. speaks with confidence and gathers material from his lived experiences as a professor, counselor, mediator, and pastor; from interviews with professional practitioners of hope; and from years of collecting general material and directed research. It was not easy for me to settle into reading Hope Is Here. I prefer writing that is narrative in style and smooth in transition. Though narratives are included within the body of text, it is not Smith's guiding style in this writing. However, he does move through the chapters with great ease and orderliness, tying the parts into a meaningful whole by referring current ideas with material presented in previous chapters. Though a workbook is offered as a complement to the primary text, merely reading the primary text will also render benefits, as I discovered that I could not complete the text without selfexamination and making notes. If you desire to bolster your understanding of hope and your involvement in the development of hope in your life and environment, this book is for you.

"I know God has amazing plans. I pray for [D]irection to follow them, Patience to wait on them, Faith to believe on them and [K]nowledge to know when they come. Amen."

--Larry Brown

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The Christian Index • July 2024

Submissions

THE SOUTH FLORIDA DISTRICT MAKES THE DREAM WORK IN FT. LAUDERDALE, FLORIDA Submitted by Cynthia Howard

The o th o i a ist i t o the o i a e ion he thei ist i t Con e en e on i , , in t a e a e, o i a, n e the ea e shi o e Ca in o ins, esi in E e , an the ist i t s the e was, “Teamwork Makes the Dream Work.” The e we e e iste e a en ees, in in asto s, o a ea he s, ea e s, an e es o a h hes within the ist i t, who a e to ethe at the two a on e en e o t ainin , e owshi , an an ate on the i ant Ch h ni a e The host h h was i ia s Me o ia Ch is an Metho ist E is o a Ch h whe e e E o E a i e is asto

Presiding Elder Calvin Hopkins, Teamwork Makes the Dream Work

The Con e en e o ene on i a with a wo sho en t e , “Spiritual Resilience: Nurturing Mental Health in the Church and Family.” esente s is Mea ow a e , e e et i s i n a, an e nita i ia s a esse the ha en es a e i ions o e i ans ea in with enta hea th on i ons The s o e o the e s e es o ie an oss, Menta ea th an stan e se, an a i ies an Co es a on a , the st i an e i an to a ate o aines i e i h hoo in , esente the wo sho , “Voting Rights & Democracy in America.” he e a e an a o ate o ote e ist a on to s ea o those who o not s ea o the se es E e ons o ist i t o e s was ne t, o owe oa an a i ia o e ons o the on e en e ea o Co nion e i e en e the a with e o ia i on, asto o t ete s CME Ch h in ensen ea h, e i e in the essa e at a e an with the “Vibrant Church Bold Steps Initiatives” esenta on e e aine oo s on the st ate i an o the Ch is an Metho ist E is o a

Presiding Elder & First Lady Hopkins

Ch h, who sha e in o a on on the st ate i an ini a es o the Ch h

oa s

Me e s we e t eate with a Chi en an o th o , o tes o the et Minist o ant Cha e Ch is an Metho ist E is o a Ch h in Ta e ast

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Submissions Continued from previous page The the e was, “Christians Under Construction,” and a ne e the a en on o hi en, o th, an a ts as the ea ne that we a e a wa s n e onst on in the e es o o , i in s ea h a

The on e en e en e with an a e ia on e e a on o esi in E e o ins o his na i ea e shi an wo in the o th o i a ist i t

The esenta on o awa s was ne t wa s we e esente to asto s o the ea e o ia i on, e nita i ia s an e enn Tho as i ant Ch h o the ea ant Cha e CME o ethe CME an a s Te e o an the i ant Ch h o the a enni i ia s Me o ia CME

(l-r): Revs. Leslie Harrell, Anita Williams and Lionel Walker

SFD Award Recipients 32

The Christian Index • July 2024

Praise the Lord!

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Submissions

God Speaks: Nothing Good —Something Really Good Submitted by Marilyn D. Thomas, Reporter St. John CME Church, Washington, DC

“Nothing good comes out of Nazareth” is an o i i a e ate sa in hea o e the ea s that e e e to the not so a e in so ia e ono i stat s o the town e now that was not t e o o o an a io es s Ch ist was o n in a a eth an e ea he an i e E th o ho t is ea th ei n To a one a hea “nothing good comes out of Southeast Washington, DC.” That is no t e than the a a eth na a e ne e ent e a e was on n a , i , when o e esi ents an isito s a i ate in the ina a GOD SPEAKS 1 Love 1 Heart 1 Community—A Day of Faith, Fun & Family. t ohn CME Ch h, o ate in histo i na os a in o theast C, hoste an a tne e with the aint ohn Co nit e e o ent Co o a on ( C C), C, an o ea s Minist the a i a n o ani a ons in e Ma tha s Ta e, the C Met o o itan o i e e a t ent (M ), C Cit Co n i , an othe o a o i a ea e s, o nit hea th an a io s eso e o i e s an en o s C a io host ET a i itate the a on ow o sta e esenta ons an en o a e the ow s i in , in in , e owshi , an oo i es The etho a o EE o e in s in e ta es with e an e is o t ea h a e s, s i it a a sa es, o et i es an s i it a t a s, ote e ist a on o s, oo ( i e hot o s, hi s, in s, o o n, an snow ones), oon o n e, esa e t eet ha a te s, hai ts, an ai in The si a an oe e o an es in e s o en wo s, i e a st, a sa o honist, an a o o os e an the wa , o o is ashin ton, C s o ia si en e e o an es on the e e te a in ot sta e o owe the o nin wo shi se i e t ohn ha sta te ha in wo shi se i es as Ch h itho t a s sin e the an e i The asto , e Mi he e a e , i e o the a s es i es as she e i e e a s in essa e God’s Outrageous Love sin the s i t e ase ohn he was a o anie t ohn s oi es o aise The a on e with a ane is ssion on 1 Heart I Love 1 Community: Working Towards Community Love ane ists in e Ward 8 City Councilmember Trayon White, Sr., MPD Captain Michael Jones, Sr., FAN-DC Director Josephine Mazyck, an Pastor Dr. Parker. the o nit ea e s who a en e MPD Chaplain Paul Kearny, an Juanita Beltran, a iso ei h o hoo Co issione ( C) isto i a , na os a in o theast C o e e i o ass Th o h the ea s an ent , o nt ess nna e he oes an she oes i e an wo to a e a e e i e o esi ents that o nte the ne a e ‘SE DC nothing good’ o nit na a e t ohn wi e e ate ea s o esen e in na os a an has a wa s een a a o sta eho e as a t o the o nit with o a s hoo a tne shi s an i i en a e ents that in e ee n s an a asses to na e a ew

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The Christian Index • July 2024

Submissions hen t ohn o ete onst on o the e on Tho as E a on Cente in , shee in , the st o ants in the i in we e the o a i a i s hoo st ents who nee e a e ent whi e thei i in n e went e e en eno a ons st as the s hoo ea sta te t ohn on n es to se e the s i it a an so ia nee s with Ch h itho t a s, s onso hea th se ina s, an hosts the E e ent Ea ea nin a e an the C a e s hoo an o nit o t ea h ente e a e , a e e e ato an s i it a isiona , a o ate an en o a e this inte ene a ona e ent The e ent s annin o i ee in e t ohn s and the St. John CDC; Kathon Van Hook-Founder, God Speaks; and Josephine Mazyck-Director, FAN-DC The o an , Pure Entertainment, s ie the o o n an snow one a hines, oon o n e an o e This was t ohn s atest o a o a e s i it a an se a o nit athe in that e onst ate es s tea hin s o se in the east o othe s with o e, an that e owshi is oo E an e is is a wa s the oa o athe in s, an se e a in i i a s an a i ies ha e een e a a en in t ohn s wo shi se i es in in the iso ei h o hoo Co issione ew otes o a i ants an othe with an a hte s ha in a eat e an a that this was ein e the h h a wo s at Ma tha s Ta e wante to s o t the e ent athon an oo , o n e o o ea s ha e o o n a t e an a o e o e to see o s o e ein s ea , an that so an ha e o e to a i ate a on, o n a t a e a own awa at the n e o eo e, the eat si an ea i e the s o en wo Essen e, t ohn e an e is e e ha o the t no t a io ost ET ho t o t to t ohn o the ision an e n o show the est is et to o e s a na e e on GOD SPEAKS - 1 Love 1 Heart 1 Community Day of Faith, Fun & Family e onst ates that i e a a eth, so ethin oo oes in ee o e o t o o theast ashin ton, C e

Mi he e

a e , asto

July 2024 • The Christian Index

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Children/Youth

Anna Kemp Marches in 2024 National Memorial Day Parade Submitted by Anna Kemp

On May 23 I, Anna Kemp, departed with the Westover High School Marching Patriots. We were heading to Washington DC to participate in the National Memorial Day Parade. This trip let me experience things I never thought I’d be able to experience.

It took around 14 hours to get to Washington.

We didn’t arrive in DC until the next day around 12 pm. The first place we toured when we first got into DC was Union Station. It was a very big place. They had a lot of shops and food places you could visit.

Walking around you could tell that DC is a place that is toured a lot. After we finished eating and looking around we went to the next stop.

On the way to our next stop we saw the capital building. It wasn’t as big as I thought it was going to be, but still fun to look at. Our next stop was the Washington Monument. I (we) learned that it is the tallest stone structure in the world. Being next to the monument was amazing and breathtaking.

We then started our way to the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History. We got to see artifacts from WW2 and WW1. We even got to play a small game of The Price Is Right. After about 2 hours of walking around we went to dinner. We had dinner at the Catholic University Garvey Dining Hall. It was a good dinner. It was simple but filling.

After that we had one last stop and that was visiting the Marine Barracks for the official Friday Evening Parade. It was such a fulfilling event.

Everything about it was shocking. We got to see the band play, and people even threw around guns. The band even played Stars and Stripes Forever, which we (the Westover Marching Patriots) played during the parade on national television.

The next day (Saturday) we started the day off by being able to take a picture in front of the White House. After that we headed for the National Museum 36

The Christian Index • July 2024

of African American History and Culture. This museum was huge. They had a lot of floors to visit and with each floor was something new to see. My favorite floor was the one with the music and instrument history. They had a lot of my favorite artists. We also got to see some of the greatest athletes of all time. This would include Muhammad Ali, Wilma Rudolph, and Tiger Woods. That was an enlightening experience.

Next we toured the Martin Luther King Jr., Vietnam, National WW2, Eisenhower, and Thomas Jefferson Memorials. My favorite place to see was the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial. Seeing one of the biggest figures in getting African Americans their rights to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.

The next day (Sunday) we went to Arlington National Cemetery and got to witness the Changing of the Guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. It was a memorable event. Seeing the guards change and pay their respects to those who died and will not be [forgotten] is great. Also while visiting there, we got to see the eternal torch. This is where John F. Kenndy is buried. The last stop was sitting on the west lawn of the US capitol. We were listening to the National Symphony Orchestra. We even overheard a few stories from past war veterans.

The last day (Monday) was the most stressful yet peaceful day. We had the weight of marching in one of the biggest parades of the year on our shoulders. Upon arriving to where we should be standing, we got to “battle” a small band from South Carolina. Being able to do that was fun and exciting. It was thrilling being able to do that with a band outside of Albany. As time [went] by, it was now time for us to march in the parade. It was kind of slow. The pace we moved at had a lot of us, including me, a little scared; but as we moved through the parade and got on television, it wasn’t that bad. The parade wasn’t long and took about 45 minutes to complete.

From what I heard, we were the best sounding and best looking band. It was fun, and I’m glad I got to go through that. I’m glad that we’re blessed to raise the money with this one and a life time chance. I thank God for it and I am glad that he got us there and back safely. Thank you to everyone for your prayers, love, and support.

Children/Youth

Wordsearch Puzzle for July (Love - 1 Corinthians 13:1-13)

ANGELS ANGERED BOAST CYMBAL ENVY FAITH

FLAMES GONG GREATEST HOPES KIND KNOWLEDGE

LOVE MEN MYSTERIES NEVERFAILS NOTHING PATIENT

PERSEVERES PROPHECY PROTECTS PROUD RECORD RUDE

SELFSEEKING SURRENDER TONGUES TRUSTS TRUTH

1 Corinthians 13:1-13 (NIV) 1 If I speak in the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal. 2 If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but have not love, I am nothing. 3 If I give all I possess to the poor and surrender my body to the flames, but have not love, I gain nothing. 4 Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. 5 It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. 6 Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. 7 It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. 8 Love never fails. But where there are prophecies, they will cease; where there are tongues, they will be stilled; where there is knowledge, it will pass away. 9 For we know in part and we prophesy in part, 10 but when perfection comes, the imperfect disappears. 11 When I was a child, I talked like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child. When I became a man, I put childish ways behind me. 12 Now we see but a poor reflection as in a mirror; then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known. 13 And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love.

July 2024 • The Christian Index

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Children/Youth Answers to Puzzle

Directors of Children and Youth Work YOU ARE ENCOURAGED to submit articles from your Children and Youth to The Christian Index.

These may be thoughts on their Christian journey, reports on church or school trips, and even book reports or original poems and essays.

Email to: ChristianIndex@thecmechurch.org

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The Christian Index • July 2024

Ecumenical

A Pastoral Message to AME College Students Protesting US involvement in the Conflict in Gaza (CORRECTED) Editor's Note [(John Thomas III, Editor, The Christian Recorder)]: Last week, Rev. André Jefferson, Jr., pastor of New Mt. Olive AME Church in Chesapeake, Virginia, wrote a pastoral letter to the college students in his congregation protesting the US involvement in Palestine. With his permission, we are sharing this message with the Connectional Church.

To The College Students Across The Connection I greet you in the name of our Risen Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, through whom we can accomplish all things. I hope that you are well as you prepare to close your semester. As I'm sure you've seen on your news feeds, there are protests against US aid to Israel in its ongoing occupation and genocide in Palestine. I do not take lightly that you all have lived through one national crisis to another. I can't imagine the emotional and mental impact many of you are facing as a result of your experience. Yet, you maintain your hope, as evidenced by your protest.

Within the past twenty-four years, your generation has experienced several mass shootings, natural disasters, pandemic policy failures, and the silencing of your voices by banning social media. To that end, our college students and young adults are now fed up with the failings of a country where they previously had hope. The question then becomes, "What do you do when your hope fails you?" Maybe it's better to ask: "What/Who do you put your hope in?"

If your hope is being placed upon systems and strategies that people told you would work (i.e., go to school, get a job, get married, buy a house, and start a family), then your hope is based upon a flawed system. If your hope is placed in people who make shallow or deep promises, they will eventually fail you as well. The only person we can truly put all of our hope in is the resurrected Jesus.

The one who was in the beginning is right now and will evermore be, promised to be with us in darkness and, I believe, is with us amid protest. Though scripture teaches us that Jesus is gentle enough for the children running to him, he is likewise disruptive enough to overturn tables and protest against the unjust predatory practices of the ruling elites that were preventing people from worshiping in spirit and truth (see Matt. 21:12 – 17, Mark 11:15 – 18, and John 2:13 – 25). It might sound superficial to say put your hope in Jesus, but this is the same protesting and protecting Jesus that our parents, grandparents, great-grandparents, and countless other generations placed hope in. You all stand within that same lineage, legacy, and light.

So place your hope in Jesus, who himself was a young man, about age 30, when He began to change the world. Place your hope in Jesus and what He can do for you, with and through you, as you change the world.

You stand within the lineage of Richard Allen, Nat Turner, Martin Luther King Jr., Shirley Chisholm, and countless other young radicals who hoped for change. So, as it was for them, so will the hope of a resurrected, protesting, and protecting Jesus be with you.

Yours in Christ, Pastor André P. Jefferson, Jr, M. Div. Shared by Editor John Thomas III in an email to Editor Spragin (The Christian Index), dated May 6, 2024.

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Ecumenical

SEPTEMBER Lament and Hope in Angola A History of Migration, Immigration and Enslavement

Mrs. Nettie Hunt, sitting on steps of Supreme Court, holding newspaper, explaining to her daughter Nikie the meaning of the Supreme Court’s decision banning school segregation. Library of Congress

Both the concept and the phrase “separate but equal” came from an 1896 court decision, Plessy v. Ferguson, which held that it was constitutional for railway companies to provide “separate but equal” services for their customers. It validated the “Jim Crow” laws that southern states had begun to enact starting in the late 1870s. This legal racial segregation separated African Americans from whites in schools, housing, jobs, and public gathering places. Although the U.S. Supreme Court overturned the doctrine of “separate but equal” in 1954 and the specific segregation of children in public schools in Brown v. Board of Education, the failure to end “separate but equal” in practice, rather than only in law, has led to today’s cycle of under-investment in many students of color. Higher school spending is associated with a significantly lower risk of students facing hunger and poverty as adults. In a rapidly changing information-based economy, education is more important than ever to students’ ability to compete for jobs that will support a family.

Source: Bread for the World’s Racial Wealth Gap Policy Packet (http://files.bread.org/institute/simulation/Racial-Wealth-Gap-Policy-Packet.pdf)

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LAMENT and HOPE: A Pan-African Devotional Guide

The Christian Index • July 2024

Ecumenical

Taylor, Heather L. "The Impact of the 'Separate but Equal' Policy." Lament and Hope: A Pan-African Devotional Guide Commemorating the 2019 Quad-Centennial of the Forced Transatlantic Voyage of Enslaved African Peoples to Jamestown, Virginia (USA) (2019): 6-7. Used by permission.

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Announcing the 2024-2025 Connectional Clinical Pastoral Education (CCPE) Program

The Connectional Clinical Pastoral Education Program is an educational experience for ministers and laypersons of all denominations who want to enhance their professional pastoral skills and personal development but are unable to be in a traditional CPE program due to time or other restrictions. It also enables probationary ministers in the Christian Methodist Episcopal (CME) Church to meet the requirement of one unit of CPE for full connection clergy membership. This unique program brings ministers from across the country together and in small groups for interactive, reflective learning using their own community and place of ministry as the context.

2024-2025 Program Dates

We will be offering two separate groups during the upcoming year.

FALL 2024

Deadline for Applications……..July 31st Orientation (In Person)……. Wednesday-Thursday, September 4-5 at the CME Unity Summit Sheraton Downtown Hotel, Dallas, Texas Monthly meetings via Zoom – TWO TIMES PER MONTH ON FRIDAY EVENING Exact dates TBD at Orientation Final Evaluations & Graduation (Pastors Conference, Atlanta)…….Mon-Tues, January 13-14, 2025

SPRING 2025

Deadline for Applications……..November 1st Orientation (In Person)……. Wednesday-Thursday, January 15-16, 2024 PST Pastors Conference, Atlanta, GA Monthly meetings via Zoom – TWO TIMES PER MONTH ON FRIDAY EVENING Exact Dates TBD at Orientation Final Evaluations & Graduation – date and location TBD The student is responsible for all of his/her travel, lodging and food costs at the in-person educational sessions.

The focus of this CPE program is on ministry in the congregation. Participants must have an approved place of ministry in order to complete the required hours in ministry each month of the program. The recommendation of a presiding bishop or supervising pastor is required as well. In addition to the ministry hours, attendance at all sessions is required.

There will be written assignments, readings and some internet-based assignments. The program operates under the auspices of the Academy for Public Theology through the Office of the CME Endorser. The faculty is comprised of certified CPE Supervisors and certified professional chaplains.

TUITION is $550, which includes a $50 non-refundable application fee, a $150 deposit once accepted into the program, and a balance of $350 payable before the program begins. The tuition includes the required books. There is currently no scholarship program, however a payment plan can be arranged.

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HOW TO APPLY FOR CONNECTIONAL CLINICAL PASTORAL EDUCATION The electronic application is available at: https: //myaptprograms.com/programs/connectional-clinical-pastoral-education/

The application includes several parts: a Digital Face Sheet, forms and essay questions.

Applications must be submitted electronically.

Incomplete applications will not be considered.

Space is limited in each group, so apply early!

For more information, send an email to: info@myaptprograms .com

------------------------------------------------------------------------Released by Bishop Teresa E. Snorton CME Endorsing Agent for Chaplaincy and CPE Program Coordinator Fees should be paid electronically at https: //buy.stripe.com/aEU4infQ w7 NA5dS4gg or by mail payable to “Academy for Public Theology” an sent to: Connectional CPE Program Academy for Public Theology P. O. Box 5069 Sun City Center, FL 33571

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CME SPECIAL VBS OFFER

Take kids deep into an amazing undersea adventure where they’ll experience the ever-flowing, never-ending love of God. SPECIAL OFFER FOR CME CHURCHES Save 10% and get Free Shipping at Group.com with promo code CMEVBS24

Have questions about Scuba VBS for the CME? Email us at webmaster@thecmechurchced.org Or call Rev. Roderick Lewis: 901.396.5400

CYREETA

CME Youth Ministry Director

Order your starter kit today! Use code CMEVBS24 at: group.com/scuba 800.447.1070 800.403.5598 Canada

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The Christian Index • July 2024

Everything you need is in this kit! I’ve had volunteers say to me, “But I’m not a teacher,” and I say to them with confidence, “Read this manual for your rotation station, let’s pray over it, then let’s go deliver the best VBS ever!” and they succeeded. Volunteers have a wonderful time, learn while they teach, and come back the next year because it was so easy!

5 DAYS AT SCUBA Day 1

Tad

No activity or station stands alone, no one is teaching independent classes or prepping for weeks on end! Here, all leaders and volunteers are on the same track, providing interconnected lessons with the same daily Bible Point!

Bible Point:

God is a friend who’s real.

Key Bible Verse:

“We believe, and we know you are the Holy One of God.” (John 6:69) Bible Story:

God shows himself to Elijah through ups and downs. (1 Kings 18–19) Day 2

Bible Point:

God is a friend who loves.

Key Bible Verse:

Finnley

“Just as I have loved you, you should love each other.” (John 13:34) Bible Story:

God shows compassion to the people of Nineveh. (Jonah 1–3) Day 3

Bible Point:

God is a friend we can trust.

Key Bible Verse:

Fisher

“I am leaving you with a gift—peace of mind and heart.” (John 14:27) Bible Story:

Jesus calms a storm. (Mark 4:35-41) Day 4

Waylon

Bible Point:

God is a friend forever.

Key Bible Verse:

“I am the resurrection and the life. Anyone who believes in me will live, even after dying.” (John 11:25) Bible Story:

Jesus dies and comes back to life. (John 18–20) Day 5

Octavia

Bible Point:

God is a friend for everyone.

Key Bible Verse:

“For this is how God loved the world: He gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life.” (John 3:16) Bible Story:

Lydia believes in Jesus. (Acts 16:11-15)

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"The Holy Spirit doesn't just make you dance & speak in tongues. He also makes you shut-up, apologize, & examine yourself."

--Evon Peterson

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The Christian Index • July 2024

CME Connectional Directory THE COLLEGE OF BISHOPS Senior Bishop Lawrence L. Reddick - 8th Episcopal District - 1616 E. Illinois Ave., Dallas TX 75216; 214-372-9073 (office); email: llreddick3@yahoo.com Bishop Thomas L. Brown, Sr. - 6th Episcopal District, 2028 Wesley Chapel Road, Decatur GA 30035-2395; 404-963-6652 (office); 404-963-6656 (fax); 6thdistrictcme@gmail.com OR 6thdistrict@thecmechurch.org Bishop Kenneth Wayne Carter - 4th Episcopal District - 5417 Robinson Road Extension, Jackson MS 39204; 769-251-0531 (office); 769-251-0758 (fax); 817-938-3747; KWCarter8@gmail.com Bishop James B. Walker - 7th Episcopal District, P.O. Box 1481, Hartford CT 06144; 301-270-7136; 301-270-7139 (fax) Bishop Sylvester Williams, Sr. - 3rd Episcopal District, Post Office Box 211237, Normandy MO 63121; 314-381-3111 (office); 314-381-2060 (fax); sw58cme@aol.com Bishop Teresa E. Snorton - Ecumenical Representative and Development Officer, P.O. Box 5069, Sun City Center FL 33571; 404-307-2911; BishopSnorton@thecmechurch.org Bishop Marvin Frank Thomas - 1st Episcopal District, Suite 222, 4466 Elvis Presley Blvd, Memphis TN 38116; 901-345-4114 (office) and 901-345-4115 (fax) Bishop C. Kelby Heath - 5th Episcopal District CME Church, P.O. Box 13383, Birmingham AL 35202-3383; 205-202-6504; cmec35203@yahoo.com; Web site: www.cmefifthdistrict.org; office located at 2615 12th Avenue N, Birmingham Al. 35234 (do not send mail to the office address) Bishop Denise Anders-Modest - 2nd Episcopal District, P.O. Box 36455, Cincinnati OH 45236; 318-348-8982; bishopandersmodest@thecmechurch.org; 2ndEpiscopaldistrictcme.org Bishop Charley Hames, Jr. - 9th Episcopal District, 9440 Santa Monica Blvd., Suite 301, Beverly Hills CA 90210; 323-294-3830; bishophames@thecmechurch.org Bishop Ricky D. Helton - 10th Episcopal District, 1703 Tamarack Street NW, Washington DC 20012; 202-726-5103; heltonfam1@aol.com Bishop Kwame Lawson Adjei - 11th Episcopal District, P. O. Box AN 7639, Accra, Ghana, West Africa; 011-233-244-630267; rev.adjei@hotmail.com.

Bishop C. James King, Retired - 311 Magnolia Dr., Thomson GA 30824; 502-494-5366; kingcmep1@aol.com OR constance3088@gmail.com Bishop Henry M. Williamson, Sr., Retired - 3576 Golf Walk Circle E, Memphis TN 38125; 310-902-8193; hwillia531@aol.com Bishop Paul A.G. Stewart, Retired - 8145 Summerwood Circle, Olive Branch MS 38654-7060; phone: 662-890-0021; bishoppstewart@aol.com Bishop Othal H. Lakey, Retired - 4441 Magnolia Path Pl., Buford GA 30518; 678-482-7066 Bishop Marshall Gilmore, Retired - 683 Beacontree Court, Concord NC 28027; 704-786-3226; mgilmore1@windstream.net THE CHIEF ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICER Dr. Pene' G. Woods - Executive Secretary, 517 Forest Hill Irene Rd. South, Cordova TN 38018-4829; Email: cao@thecmechurch.org; 901-489-9253 THE JUDICIAL COUNCIL Atty. Bernard Snell, President - P.O. Box 27333, Macon GA 31221 or 5801 Zebulon Rd., Unit #446, Macon GA 31220; 478-731-1897; bernard.snell@usdoj.gov Rev. Dr. Russell Fuller, Sr., Vice President - 647 Shadyway, Dallas TX 75232; 214-793-1945; fwdistrict@yahoo.com.

Atty. Shirley C. Byers, Clerk - P. O. Box 5008, Holly Springs MS 38634 or 125 East Van Dorn Ave., Holly Springs MS 38635; 662-820-2763 (c) or 662-252-2188 (h); scbjudge@gmail.com Dr. Lynda Brown-Wright - 3157 Dale Hollow Dr., Lexington KY 40515; 859-433-3396; Lynda.brownwright@gmail.com Rev. Dr. James T. Morris - 12832 Holdenbury Ln., Windermere FL 34786; cfdcmec.elder.morris@gmail.com Rev. Roland Johnson - 4945 Bradfield Run, Memphis TN 38125; 901-497-9588; revrjohns@aol.com.

Atty. J. Richet Pearson - P.O. Box 11135, Birmingham AL 35202; 205-252-8961; jrichetpearson@gmail.com Dr. Terri D. Dyer - 1259 Date Palm Dr., Carson CA 90746; 626-372-2026; Terridyer1@aol.com Presiding Elder Kevin J. Agee - P.O. Box 55834, Washington, D.C. 20040; 201-736-9107 (c) or 301-638-7124 (h); revkjagee@hotmail.com THE GENERAL OFFICERS Dr. Carmichael Crutchfield - General Secretary, Department of Christian Education & Formation - Suite 300, 4466 Elvis Presley Blvd., Memphis TN 38116-7100; 901-3454109 (office); 901-261-3289 (fax); basiz1@aol.com; also 1119 Linksview Lane West, Cordova TN 38018 Dr. Roderick D. Lewis, Sr. - General Secretary, Department of Publications, 4237 Elvis Presley Blvd., Memphis TN 38116; 901-396-5400; cmepublishing@bellsouth.net; rdlsr@aol.com Dr. Ore L. Spragin, Jr. - Editor, The Christian Index, 1700 Whisperwood Street, Albany GA 31721; 901-515-6510; ChristianIndex@thecmechurch.org Dr. Victor Taylor - General Secretary & CFO, Dept. of Finance and Investments, 4817 Murfreesboro Road - #399, Arrington TN 37014; 847-274-0182 (main); 312-706-6804 (work); 240-359-6272 (fax); vtaylor@dficmechurch.org; https://www.hightail.com/u/cmefinance (securely upload confidential documents here) Rev. Dr. Leon C. Moore, Jr. - General Secretary of Evangelism and Missions, 2893 Hwy 178 West, Holly Springs MS 38635; 678-362-7549; cmegdem@gmail.com Dr. Jacqueline I. Scott - President, Women's Missionary Council, 7255 Richmond Road, Memphis TN 38125; 901-737-7675; scottjacqueline210@yahoo.com Rev. Reginald G. Barnes - Gen. Sect. General Bd. of Personnel Services, P.O. Box 74 - Memphis TN 38101-0074; 901-345-4100; FAX 901-345-4107 Mr. Anthony J. Smoaks, Sr. - Gen. Sect., Ministry to Men, PO Box 3, Egg Harbor NJ 08215; 201-892-3942; CMEM2M@gmail.com.

Mr. Shannon L. Faulk - Gen. Sect. Dept. of Lay Ministries, 400 Corporate Pointe, Ste. 300, Culver City CA 90230; 310-902-6836 (cell); 310-590-4522 (office); slfaulk3@aol.com Dr. Theresa Duhart - Gen. Sect. and CIO, Dept. of Communications & Information Technology; 1907 Willow Lane West, University Place WA 98466, cio@thecmechurch.org; 253-376-6361 Dr. William George - General Secretary, Emeritus, Dept. of Publications, 535 Harwood Cove, Memphis TN 38120; 901-683-7883; email;weg38@aol.com.

Dr. Jeanette Bouknight - Executive Secretary, Emeritus, 11928 Steven Drive, Sterling Heights MI 48312; 313-433-7207; cmeexecutivesecretary3@yahoo.com.

Dr. Tyrone T. Davis - General Secretary, Emeritus, General Board of Personnel Services, Retired; 809 Sapphire Ave., Memphis TN 38109-6421; 901-218-0091; Tyrone.T.Davis@comcast.net Dr. Leo Pinkett - General Secretary, Ministry to Men, Retired - 2850 Shoreland Dr., S.W., Atlanta GA 30331; 404-349-1722; email: lpinkettace@yahoo.com Dr. Clifford Harris - Gen. Sect. of Lay Ministry, Retired - 15485 Prairie Bell Rd., Okmulgee OK 74447-8690; 918-519-4233 (c);918-304-1999 (h); MrCliffHarris@yahoo.com OTHER CONNECTIONAL OFFICERS Rev. James Smith - Coordinator, Chaplain Services; 493 Robin Song Ct., Blythewood SC 29016; 803-800-9788; SmithJEJR@aol.com Mrs. Claudette Nichols Branch - President, CME Historical Society; 1511 Brownwood Avenue, Memphis TN 38116-4403 Rev. Cassandry Keys - President of the Ministers' and Laymen's Council - P.O. Box 170703, Spartanburg SC 29301; 251-689-7969; email: cassandry@att.net Mrs. Felicia G. Johnson - President, Connectional Ministers' Spouses, Widows and Widowers Department - 832-284-1847 (c); fefejohnson@outlook.com Ms. Barbara Christian Campbell - President, Connectional Lay Council - 4819 Eagles Ridge Loop, Lithonia GA 30038; or 2012 Memorial Drive SE, Atlanta GA 30317; loviebarbara1@gmail.com; 404-587-8311 or 678-641-9745 Ms. Tiffanie Thompson - President, Connectional Young Adult Ministry; 2501 20th Place Ensley, Birmingham AL 35208; 205-746-6764; cyampresident@gmail.com Rev. Dr. Jetson Ronzell Maness - President, Presiding Elders’ Council - 2 Rebecca's Ct., North Augusta SC 29860; 706-495-0298 (c); jetson_maness@yahoo.com Ms. Jolinda Dugger - President, Connectional Stewardesses, 110 Montclair Dr., Jackson TN 38301; 731-736-0961 (h); 731-394-7504 (cell); email: Jmdugger810@aol.com Rev. Lisa Lewis Balboa - Coordinator, Commission on the Concerns of Women in the Ministry; 47 Angela Drive, Trenton KY 42286; 270-305-6204 (cell); Lbalboa67@yahoo.com Mr. Freddie McKnight - President, Connectional Stewards, 24 Canton Street; West Haven CT 06516; 203-933-7230 (h); 203-500-6377 (cell) Attorney Barbara Bouknight - President, Connectional Trustees Ms. Dorruth Boyd - President of Connectional Ushers, 5135 Menefee Drive, Dallas TX 75227; 214-533-7553; email: dorruthboyd@att.net Rev. Jermaine Marshall, PhD - General Conference Secretary; 2239 Adam Clayton Powell Jr.Blvd., New York NY 10027; 904-422-1627; jermmar25@gmail.com Rev. Dr. Valencia Edner - Coordinator, Connectional Music and Arts Ministry - 17206 Atascocita Bend Dr., Humble TX 77396; 936-465-7284;Pastorvee522@yahoo.com CME GENERAL COUNSEL Attorney Ouida Brown - General Counsel - P.O. Box 587, Tuscombia AL 35674; 256-383-9620; fax: 256-383-9933 HEADS OF CONNECTIONAL INSTITUTIONS Dr. Paul Brown - President and Dean, Phillips School of Theology, Atlanta GA; 404-527-7768 Dr. Logan C. Hampton - President, Lane College, 545 Lane Ave., Jackson TN 38301; 731-426-7595 (office); 731-427-3987 (fax) Ms. Bobbie Knight - President, Miles College, P. O. Box 39800, Birmingham AL 35208; 205-929-1428; 205-929-1448; 205-929-1429; 205-929-1426 (fax) Dr. Dwight Fennell - President, Texas College, 2404 N. Grand Ave., Tyler TX 75702; 903-593-8311; 903-593-0588 (fax) Dr. Cheryl Evans Jones - Office of the President, Paine College, 1235 Fifteenth St., Augusta GA 30901-3182; 706-821-8230 (office); 706-821-8320 (Admissions)

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