The Christian Index - May 2024

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

2023 Fall Intensive CCPE Graduates

Thirteen Commit to Christ

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 • May 2024

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

Volume 157, Number 5

May 2024

Connectional Interests Episcopacy 4 Dept. of Evangelism/Missions 6 Dept. of Christian Education/Formation 8 Department of CIT 9 2023 CME Calendar of Events 11 Ministers' Spouses, Widows/Widowers 12 CME-Affiliated Schools

PST 2024 Pastors' Conference 14

Texas Innovates Student Support 18 Submissions Fall 2023 Intensive CCPE Graduation 18 Thirteen Commit to Jesus 19 VESSELS A-B-C's for Churches/Politics 20 Intergenerational Bridges of Leadership 22 Without Vision, People Perish 24 A Day of Intercessory Prayer 26 Francis-Thomas Earns Doctorate 28 A Day in My Life 30 Taylor Recalls Brownsville Memories 31 Ebenezer Thankfulness Breakfast 33 Celebrating Melody Hawkins 35 Duren Participates in All American 36 Children/Youth 37 Ecumenical Archbishop to Receive Honorary Degree 39 Obituaries - Joining the Great Cloud 40 Connectional Directory 47

Cover: Fall 2023 Intensive CCPE graduates, and Thirteen Commit to Jesus (pages 19 and 36, respectively).

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

Submitted to the Publisher: April 22, 2024

Editorial

We Are More Than Witnesses Psalm 133:1 (KJV) says, “Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity!” Unity is a noble but elusive goal. Perhaps this is partly due to the fact that so many confuse unity with conformity. The biblical word for unity here refers to a unit, acting with a togetherness. To dwell together in unity is to sit or remain in harmony with one another. I wanted to add that this was for a common goal, but that would imply activity on the part of the people. This verb dwell seems to take that action away from the people and to say that it is something they receive passively.

It is something they receive in the sitting together, in being together with one another. Perhaps this might be the understanding of verse three, that it is in our coming together that God gives the blessing of life for evermore.

If we are more than witnesses, but are made to be envoys … ambassadors, as Paul put it in 2nd Corinthians 5:20 … then it seems that God infuses what we do with the Holy Spirit, even our coming together and our going out in his name, such that what we do is not in vain but bears fruit for Christ.

How are you more than a witness? How are you living in unity with the body of Christ? What is your going out and your coming in? What do people see in you or receive from you that invites them to see Christ in you, and even more so, that leads them to invite Christ into their lives, to ask him to be their savior?

Acts 4:32-37 gives a record of what this unity looks like, what it is to be more than a witness, more than one who proclaims or tells the story of the love of God in Christ Jesus.

Not everyone in the church was on the same economic or financial level. Not everyone was rich, not all were middle class, and not all were poor. The church consisted of people from all strata or societal levels.

And before they had become believers, they existed not only on different societal levels but also on different social levels. They had their various clubs and social Rev. Dr. Ore L. Spragin, Jr., circles. But once they were Editor saved, they formed a different, wider, more inclusive circle. Their hearts were changed, their minds were changed, and their behavior changed.

They no longer looked up and down at each other; instead, they looked across at each other. Society no longer determined their interactions; their faith in Jesus and the Holy Spirit directed their actions and interactions.

Verse 32 says they “were of one heart and of one soul.” They were not unified, but they lived in unity. The were more than witnesses. They did more than just say this is how the Lord blessed me. The blessing of the Lord lived through them as individuals to the benefit of the whole.

And so it was that a Cyprian Levite named Barnabas, though he once was and might yet have been an officer among the Jews, found himself in unity with those who believed in Christ and acted accordingly. He unselfishly gave up his earthly possessions that he might be of support and benefit to those who were less well off than himself that together they “might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing [they] might have life through his name.”

It is in both giving and receiving that faith for eternal life is built up to the glory of God. It is in within this unity of fellowship that we come to know and receive forgiveness of our sins and receive the peace of God. We are more than witnesses.

CORRECTION: It was erroneously stated on page 27 in the April 2024 issue of The Christian Index, "Bates Chapel Hosts Grand Celebration," that Dr. Clarence Buchanan retired from the Seventh Episcopal District. It should have stated that he retired from the Third Episcopal District.

May 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

"Nothing proves that you love someone more than mentioning them in your prayers."

--Okima Havis

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.

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May 2024 • The Christian Index

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Connectional Interests

Department of Evangelism and Missions

BE BOLD FACE NOW EMBRACE NEXT SEE NEW Experiencing Evangelism Differently

Our experiences in life can help us or deter us if we don't have an open mind as a believer that focuses on evangelism and missions.

I remember a conversation with a Presiding Elder about evangelism. She said, “Evangelism does not work. It’s a waste of time for me and my district. I simply don’t believe in evangelism.”

I had a strong urge to convince her of the importance and effectiveness of spreading the word of God. However, as I paused to reflect on her words, I realized that her perspective was shaped by her own experiences and beliefs. Instead of dismissing her views, I decided to engage in a respectful conversation to understand her point of view better.

I realized that her perception of evangelism may have been influenced by past experiences or challenges she had faced in her ministry. It made me think about how our experiences can shape our attitudes and beliefs, whether positively or negatively. Our experiences can either inspire us to embrace new opportunities or deter us from taking risks.

In the realm of evangelism and missions, having an open mind is crucial. It allows us to appreciate different perspectives and approaches to spreading the message of God, embodied by the Good News of Christ. Embracing our experiences, both positive and negative, can make us more authentic in our beliefs and actions. It helps us to understand the complexities of human interactions and the diverse ways in which people respond to us when sharing our faith.

I believe culture has a significant role in shaping our world view and values. It provides us with a sense of identity and belonging.

However, challenges can often arise when our cultural beliefs clash with the principles of evangelism. In such instances, it is essential to navigate these differences with sensitivity and respect.

The integration of experience and culture is vital in the practice of evangelism and missions. While experience offers practical insights and lessons learned, culture provides a framework for understanding human behavior and social dynamics. When these two elements work together, they can enhance our effectiveness in communicating the message of God and the Good News of Jesus the Christ.

It is important to view challenges as opportunities for growth and learning in the name of Jesus. Every obstacle we face can be seen as a chance to deepen our faith and reliance on God's word. While it may be tempting to view challenges as setbacks, they can also serve as catalysts for spiritual transformation and renewal.

In the face of skepticism, criticism, and resistance towards evangelism, it is crucial to respond with patience and understanding.

The encounter with the Presiding Elder who expressed doubts about evangelism served as a valuable lesson for me. It reminded me of the importance of humility and empathy in engaging with individuals who may hold different beliefs.

Our experiences, culture, and challenges all play a role in shaping our approach to evangelism and missions. By embracing evangelism differently, being mindful of cultural differences, and viewing challenges as opportunities for effective evangelism and missions, we can cultivate a more open and authentic mindset in sharing the message of faith.

God, may we approach evangelism with humility, grace, and a willingness to learn from others, knowing that God's word will never fail.

We are The Christian Methodist Episcopal Church recognizing the importance of Christ in our daily lives.

Rev. Dr. Leon C. Moore, Jr. General Secretary of Evangelism and Missions Anderson Chapel CME, Holly Springs, MS

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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.

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

"Just because you've failed today, doesn't mean you'll fail tomorrow. Don't allow people to set parameters around you based on who you used to be. If you want to be and do better today, then yesterday was simply a lesson. Move forward and reintroduce yourself."

--Allen M. Mitchell, Sr.

May 2024 • The Christian Index

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Connectional Interests

Department of Christian Education/Formation

New Book Release 5.30.24

edited by Denise Janssen, Carmichael D. Crutchfield, Virginia A. Lee, and Jessica Young Brown

Raising Faithful Kids This is the Stuff of Faith

ISBN: 978-0-8170-1847-4 $25.99

Available at judsonpress.com or wherever books are sold.

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The Christian Index • May 2024

The purpose of this resource is to equip parents and caregivers with tools and processes for sharing faith formation. We wrote this book to help you consider the faith and values you hope to share with your children!

—from the Introduction

Connectional Interests

Department of Communication/Information Technology

Artificial Intelligence (AI)…What Is It All About?

Dr. Theresa Duhart, General Secretary/Chief Information Officer Department of Communication and Information Technology (CIT) Artificial Intelligence (AI) is transforming the way businesses, organizations, and even ministries in churches operate. It has the potential to optimize processes, improve decision-making, and enhance overall performance. This is the first article of a series to help our connectional members better understand AI and its usage, and AI tools and resources.

In today's tech-driven world, Artificial Intelligence (AI) has become one of the most sought-after technologies.

This article aims to provide an overview of AI, highlighting its benefits, and key ways in which it is being used by ordinary individuals, businesses, and organizations. However, despite its growing popularity, there are also concerns about AI that need to be addressed. So, keep reading to gain a deeper understanding of this game-changing technology.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is a branch of computer science that aims to create intelligent machines that can perform tasks that normally require human cognition, such as reasoning, learning, problem-solving, perception, understanding language, and interacting with the environment. These systems are designed to replicate human cognitive functions, learn from experience, adapt to new situations, and make independent decisions.

AI is Used Daily by Ordinary People!

Here are just a few examples of how AI is used daily by ordinary people in various aspects of their lives.

Virtual Assistants: Many of us use virtual assistants such as Amazon Alexa, Apple Siri, and Google Assistant.

Virtual assistants use AI algorithms to comprehend and reply to voice commands. They offer information, set reminders, play music, manage smart home devices, and carry out tasks as per user instructions.

Smartphones: Smartphone cameras can now capture high-quality photos with automatic scene recognition, image stabilization, and portrait mode. AI algorithms enhance predictive text input, smart replies, and voice recognition.

The technology even enables us to have Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) experiences on smartphones, revolutionizing gaming, shopping, education, and entertainment experiences.

Recommendation Systems: Many of us use streaming platforms such as Netflix and Spotify, e-commerce websites such as Amazon, and social media platforms such as Facebook and Instagram. These AI-powered recommendation systems personalize content, products, and services based on user behavior and preferences.

Navigation and Maps: We use AI-powered navigation apps like Google Maps and Waze that provide real-time traffic updates, optimized routes, and predictive travel times to help users avoid congestion and delays.

Language Translation: AI-powered language translation apps and services allow for real-time translation of text, speech, and images between different languages. These tools are beneficial for communication and language learning.

Health and Fitness: Many persons use health and fitness apps powered by AI to track users' activity levels, monitor sleep patterns, and provide personalized workout plans and nutrition recommendations. AI algorithms analyze data to help users achieve their fitness goals and improve overall health.

Customer Service: AI-powered chatbots are becoming more and more popular among banks and online stores.

These provide instant assistance by answering frequently asked questions, handling basic troubleshooting, and helping with product inquiries. Using chatbots, businesses can save time and resources while improving customer satisfaction.

Content Creation: AI tools can generate content for us, including articles, artwork, music, and videos. AIpowered writing assistants aid users in writing by suggesting improvements, generating ideas, or even writing entire articles.

Key Reasons Why AI is Used by Businesses and Organizations Increased Efficiency: AI-powered automation has the potential to simplify processes, minimize manual tasks, and enhance efficiency across various industries. However, there are concerns in various markets about AI taking jobs away from human workers that should be effectively addressed.

Continued on next page

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Connectional Interests

Department of Communication/Information Technology

Continued from previous page Data Analysis and Insights: With AI-driven analytics, businesses can make data-driven decisions, identify trends, and anticipate market changes.

Personalization: AI algorithms enable businesses to tailor products, services, and communications to individual needs.

Customer Service and Support: AI-powered chatbots and virtual assistants provide 24/7 personalized customer service.

Predictive Maintenance: Implementing predictive maintenance solutions can reduce downtime and maintenance costs, and extend asset lifespan by analyzing equipment sensor data to predict maintenance needs before failures occur.

Fraud Detection and Security: Real-time AI-powered algorithms can detect patterns and anomalies indicative of fraudulent activities. Organizations can then mitigate risks, safeguard financial transactions, and protect sensitive data.

Collaborative AI Systems: Future AI systems will provide collaboration and enable seamless communication, coordination, and cooperation between humans and machines.

AI technologies can enhance operational effectiveness and optimization, including, supply chain processes; lead times; inventory management; market intelligence; competitor analysis; and facilitate product development and requests.

AI Concerns Although AI systems can provide real-time intelligence to organizations and fulfill critical needs, it is important to point out several critical issues and considerations about the technology.

Academic Integrity: AI-generated information can mislead by fabricating research, faking sources, and obscuring comprehension, undermining education. AI is indeed a hot topic at educational institutions!

Data Privacy and Security: Real-time AI systems rely on vast amounts of data, raising concerns about data privacy, security, unauthorized access, breaches, and misuse. Organizations must ensure sensitive information is protected.

Bias and Fairness: Artificial intelligence (AI) algorithms have the potential to be influenced by biases present in the data they are trained on, which can result in unfair or discriminatory results. It is essential to address and mitigate any biases present to ensure that decision-making processes that impact individuals or groups are fair and equitable.

Transparency: Sophisticated AI systems, such as deep learning models, can be challenging to interpret.

Organizations should aim for transparency to clarify the decision-making process and establish trust with stakeholders.

Ethical Considerations: AI-driven decision-making poses ethical dilemmas that require consideration. These include the fair allocation of resources, balancing the potential benefits and risks, and the overall impact on society. As a result, many organizations are now prioritizing ethical principles during the development and deployment of AI systems. This helps them to identify and address potential ethical implications and ensure that their use of AI is responsible and ethical.

Human Oversight and Accountability: Having human oversight is critical in ensuring that AI-driven decisions align with organizational goals and values.

Regulatory Compliance: As AI systems become more advanced and widespread, organizations must keep up with regulatory requirements and comply with applicable laws governing AI technologies.

Skill Gaps and Training Needs: [Organizations must ensure that those utilizing AI systems maintain critical knowledge and training.]

Unintended Consequences: Organizations should anticipate and mitigate risks associated with AI to avoid negative impacts on individuals and society.

The adoption of AI technologies has had a significant impact on improving processes, decision-making, and outcomes across various sectors. The continued advancement of AI is expected to drive widespread transformation and innovation, reshaping industries, economies, and societies.

By harnessing the power of AI responsibly and ethically, businesses and organizations, including churches, can unlock new opportunities and address complex challenges in a rapidly evolving digital landscape!

Resources

IBM AI Solutions https://www.ibm.com/topics/artificial-intelligence Stanford University Human=Centered Artificial Intelligence. https://hai.stanford.edu/sites/default/files/2020-09/AI-Definitions-HAI.pdf Tableau https://www.tableau.com/data-insights/ai/risks Marr, Bernard. (2023, June 2). The 15 Biggest Risks Of Artificial Intelligence. Retrieved March 29, 2024, from https://www.forbes.

com/sites/bernardmarr/2023/06/02/the-15-biggest-risks-of-artificial-intelligence/?sh=4d7969522706 10

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May - Missions Beyond the USA Sunday (any Sunday during the month) May 31 - June 2, 2024 - Kenya Region Annual Conference June 2, 2024 - Connectional Stewardess Day June 7-9, 2024 - Rwanda Region Annual Conference June 9, 2024 - Connectional Children’s Day/Mentorship Sunday June 14-16, 2024 - Uganda Region Annual Conference June 20-22, 2024 - Arizona-New Mexico Region Annual Conference; Phoenix AZ June 26-28, 2024 - Arkansas Region Annual Conference; Bullock Temple, Little Rock AK June 27-29, 2024 - Alaska-Pacific Region Annual Conference; Portland OR 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 11-12, 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, Hopkinsville KY July 17-19, 2024 - West Tennessee Region Annual Conference; New Hope, Henning TN July 17-20, 2024 - Southeast Texas Region Annual Conference; Holiday Inn, Beaumont TX May 2024 • The Christian Index

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Connectional Interests

Ministers' Spouses, Widows/Widowers

Salute to Mothers: Worthy of Love, Respect & Honor The mention of the word "mother" or any of its affectionate variations is like striking a chord deep within our hearts. Mothers, in their various forms, hold a significant place in our lives that evokes strong emotions of honor and respect, regardless of whether the bond is through blood or love.

From the very beginning, mothers provide us with our first taste of love and security. They shape our values and perspectives on life, serving as our fiercest protectors and firmest disciplinarians. The wisdom and life lessons they impart during our formative years leave a lasting impact, shaping our lives and those of our children. Mothers also provide the first glimpse of the majesty of God and the respect due Him. Reflecting on songs dedicated to mothers, such as The Intruders', "I'll Always Love My Mama," brings a smile. This song reminds us of the invaluable training mothers provide, from basic manners to the enduring nature of a mother's love. Powered by an unwavering love, mothers often go above and beyond, working tirelessly to meet the needs of their children, drawing strength from their faith in God. Boyz II Men's rendition of, "A Song for Mama," penned by Kenneth Edmonds, offers another moving perspective. It portrays mothers as the driving force in our lives, nourishing our souls.

Indeed, a mother's love nourishes the foundation of character, courage, compassion, and confidence.

A mother's work is never truly finished; it is a lifelong commitment. As children grow up, responsibilities may shift, but mothers must always be prepared to step back in at a moment's notice. Many care for grandchildren or adult children who cannot care for themselves.

Mothers have worn many hats throughout the years, serving as teachers, guidance counselors, researchers, benefactors, encouragers, advocates, companions, caretakers, confidants, financiers, coaches, chefs, chauffeurs, spiritual advisers, babysitters, housekeepers, role models, doctors, nurses, consultants, carpenters, friends and bankers that make no-interest loans, among other things. Mothers exemplify the purest form of love, strength, and resilience.

We salute mothers for all you do, both seen and unseen. Your love and determination do not go unnoticed. May you reflect God's grace and let your light shine bright, illuminating the path for future generations. For those of us whose mothers are no longer physically with us, let's honor their love and legacy by sharing the wisdom they instilled in us. ~Happy Mother’s Day~ Submitted by: Regina T. Dillard; Birmingham Region; Birmingham District; Moody Temple C.M.E. Church, Fairfield, AL

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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

May 2024 • The Christian Index

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Connectional Interests

CME-Affiliated Schools

Phillips School of Theology at the ITC "The Seminary of the Christian Methodist Episcopal Church"

Twenty-Eighth Pastors' Conference & Eightieth Founders' Observance Submitted by Rev. Dr. Ore L. Spragin, Jr. Editor, The Christian Index

The Phillips School of Theology 2024 Pastors' Conference and Founders' Observance was held January 8-11 at the Crowne Plaza Ravinia Hotel in Dunwoody, Georgia. The theme of this year's conference was, "Seeing the New: Discovering Next-Level Ministries that Transform the Church." The speakers chosen by President-Dean Paul L. Brown, Sr. provided attendees with challenging insights, inspiring testimonies and anecdotes, and life-changing, liberating sermons.

Additionally, more than a dozen persons were recognized over the course of the conference for their memorable and outstanding works of ministry within and on behalf of the Christian Methodist Episcopal Church. Following are highlights of some of the lectures and sermons.

Dr. Riggins Earl – Have we fossilized our own past leaders, or stuck in and theologies so that we are no longer constructing a new present for a different future?

Are we being, or are we dead and controlled. Do we see the world as a given or as a place for growth, adaptation, and change? Life is a mixture, a complimentary mixture.

What is the true, heavy meaning of the biblical text? We must discover ourselves in the text. We must raise the question of power in the text(s). Who has it? Who does not? Who is empowered, and who is disempowered? What is the real-world circumstance of the text?

Use the imagination to tell the story of the Jesus who sought to touch the lives of the people. How do we make real this Jesus to the people? How do we touch the lives of the people who come to our places of worship?

Can we identify with their circumstances? If we are to be informative and relevant, we must follow Jesus.

Dr. Reginaldo Braga – Why is there a difference between so-called white and so-called black theology, hermeneutics, and how what is called Christian education is lived in everyday life? It depends on your life experience and perspective. We must come to and 14

The Christian Index • May 2024

accept the realization that all of us have a common historical, ethnic background. Rather than practice a theology of separation and exclusion, we must recognize that we are a mixed culture and people, and practice inclusion. We may find that the ones we have excluded are a source of joy and blessing to our own lives.

Dr. Mark Lomax – Who or what is running the church, the Spirit or the budget? What is the evaluative process for recognizing and determining success?

The church should be relevant. Don't just teach or preach to the people without knowing what ails them. Are we following Jesus, or are we just lying to ourselves? Are we oppressing ourselves, or others?

People don't care about the size of your church; they care about the quality of your love and service to them.

Dr. Temba Mafico – Dr. Mafico shared that he joined the CME Church because he enjoyed learning and he had seen that the CME Church also enjoyed learning (exalted teaching and learning). However, he has become disappointed because the CME Church does not put its learning into practice.

“If you are to bring a church to a higher level, you have to practice that which you learn … The problem is hearing, we hear, but doing, we don’t.

We continue doing the same thing which has never worked.” As he considers whether we are a church that Jesus would come and attend, it is his belief that Jesus would condemn us as the “Pharisees, Sadducees, and scribes who are hypocrites, who look like Christians but otherwise we are like white-washed graves.”

The church is not the number of members; it is people who grow from members who are dependent babies to members who are independent and serving disciples. We must take responsibility for upgrading our communities through teaching, through learning, and through ministry.

Connectional Interests Dr. Odessa G. Darrough (1st Episcopal District) – We have been charged to have a next level ministry that transforms churches and [people]. Do we want a next generation who a nice and quiet, or those who will get out of their comfort zone and be bold for Jesus? What did Jesus produce in his disciples?

Teach them the Bible. This means you have to get in the word. What is the emphasis on teaching in your ministry? Model Christ-like behavior. Expect challenging questions and provide biblically based answers. Provide opportunities to serve. Pray for them.

How to work for transformational growth: Expect change. Aim for continual improvements. (Be an architect.) Incorporate newcomers. Ask how do we stop the decline? Divert money as necessary to support or implement new or better ministries or programs.

Procrastination hurts, so put the right people in place based on the congregation's needs.

Assess the available resources: including those of spiritual strength, relationships within the community, fellowship, and location.

Rev. Bernard Jackson (4th Episcopal District) – Mark 9 - The same God who is with you on the top of the mountain is the same God who is with you at the bottom.

There is something indescribable that is in the boy that is trying to kill him. What is inside you that is trying to kill him. Hear Ephesians 6:5ff.

You are exactly where God wants you to be in order to experience a move of God. Jesus says, bring him to me.

1. The shaking in your life indicates something is about to change. Well, let it shake.

2. You already have the faith to see it through.

I believe. Help my unbelief. Sometimes I get a little sidetracked. There is grace for your unbelief.

3. It takes spiritual discipline to properly exercise authority. See verse 28. The question is why are we ineffective? Sometimes you get tired of no results and ask, God, what am I doing wrong?

Verse 29 seems to be saying that what you have done in your past is adequate, but it is time for you do something new and different. It's time to step your game up.

Bishop Clarence Kelby Heath (In place of Dr. Obery Hendricks who was delayed) – We must view itinerant ministry not only in terms of its historical context but also in its biblical and theological context.

CME-Affiliated Schools Itinerancy must be and was explored both through the written and the human texts, those not written but lived.

Itinerancy is present throughout the Bible in both the Old and New Testaments, the prophets being before the apostles and preachers and pastors who followed.

We must be careful to not destroy the itinerancy while maintaining the pastoral ministry. The latter grew out of the former and was based in the desires and needs (marriage, family, home) of those who were itinerant.

We must also remember that even in the itinerant training of the disciples of Jesus, he did so (Mark 3:14) "that he might send them," or by a way of thinking, that he might NOT send them. He ordained, appointed them to spend time with him in learning that they might later be properly sent.

(Note: Bishop Heath spoke from his book, A Theological Observation, Pastoral Assessment, and Recommendations to Improve the Itinerant Ministry of the Christian Methodist Episcopal Church, available by direct purchase from him.)

Dr. Gina Stewart – "God did not call us to compete; God called us to walk in our calling." Her thesis is based on Walter Bruggeman's book on the Psalms in which he categorizes the Psalms based on their relationship to what he says are three phases of life: orientation, disorientation, and reorientation/new orientation.

Life is not always orderly but is often disorderly.

Covid helped usher in a season of disorientation, disorder, and perpetual trauma, but we learned to become creative and to maneuver the crises. Government regulations made us change our approaches to life and ministry. Thankfully God has the last word and the last move.

Isaiah says God is doing a new thing. The world we are facing is not the world that is behind us. This world requires and calls us into adventures in adaptive capacity. If the people trust you, they may not know what you are doing but they will follow you.

Practically, we must engage in digital discipleship, digital evangelism, virtual pastoral care and Bible study. Make sure they are inclusive, available for everybody.

Rev. Ian Gibson (2nd Episcopal District) – God's love is the kind of love that will not let us go. It is often seen through the lives and works of others towards us. It gives us hope, and it IS hope.

Continued on next page May 2024 • The Christian Index

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Connectional Interests Continued from previous page For Naomi, it showed up in the persons of Orpah and Ruth. And then in Ruth alone. They were God's "hesed," blessing of hope, to Naomi in her bitterness, in the bitterness and blows of life.

Dr. Obery Hendricks – Jesus has come to transform unjust societies into systems and political structures of justice, that perform justice, that lift the poor. The term "righteousness" can and should often be translated as justice. The preaching of the gospel should bring people to faith and salvation in Christ and should make a difference in the community. There is oppression even in the church, as well as outside the church. What then does it mean to pursue justice?

Jesus did not start an institution; he started a movement with the intended end that all should be able to eat of the fruit. If we can mobilize to go on trips, why can't we mobilize to go to the city council, the courthouse and the state house. We must move from being audiences to being congregations.

Share from the events of the week during the Sunday service. We must be informed on economics and politics and engage in community development.

What do we do in our churches? The Spirit is present in the church to move us out of the church into the world.

Spirituality has to do with the vertical unction that makes you move out on the horizontal plane.

God is calling us to stand up and engage in practices that help to create a just world. We must fight evil. Evil is Satan personified in the people who work evil in the world.

Dr. Jamal Bryant – Jesus did not call anybody from the seminary; all were called from business. Both pastors and lay people should understand what it is to be good managers and businesspeople.

Luke 1:1-4, "It's All True" Hearsay sounds a lot like heresy. People will lie.

People will say not only what has never been true but also what can never be true.

Mark and Luke are not eyewitness accounts.

Luke admits that. Preachers must preach of themselves the truth of the gospel. You are not in the pulpit because you are faultless; tell the story ... your story. You must be relatable.

Whatever starts with a lie will end with a disaster. Own the truth even when the truth doesn't feel good. What is your truth? What is your story?

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The Christian Index • May 2024

CME-Affiliated Schools If Luke's gospel was based only on hearsay, it would be inadmissible as true. But in verse 3, he says he investigated thoroughly those whose stories he was telling. Now he could tell the story with power because he himself was convinced. He knew it to be true.

Dr. E. Dewey Smith – 1 Samuel 15:35, "A God Who Repents." Dewey agrees with one of his ITC professors that God can do anything, including fail ... if he wants to. The question is not God's ability but God's will. This statement, then, does not limit God's power but fully reveals it.

God had established Israel as a Theocracy guided by women and men called as prophets. But then they looked around and wanted a monarchy, a king. So, God gave them Saul, and later God repented. What did Saul do, and what can we do, to cause an almighty God to repent?

Caught up in Pride. Saul was at one time little in his own eyes. But his attitude changed. Has our pride gotten in the way? Are we seeking profits and not to be prophets?

Couldn’t work without Pay. He became selfish and greedy. He wanted to receive. He didn't mind the vocation, but he wanted the compensation. Whenever you can't do it without pay, you're on your way to making God repent.

Concentrated on Pleasing People. Saul said he did do his assignment, but the people. The people told me to do it. What happens when God puts you in a place in order to move it forward, and it requires you to push the people?

Even though the kingdom had been torn from Saul, he continued as usual for 15 years. All of us have some Saul in us. What do I do? The best answer is seen in Saul's successor, David. He wrote, "Have mercy upon me, O God ..." "God had to repent ... because Saul wouldn't."

Rev. Richard McDuffie – Genesis 18:9-14, "A Crisis of Faith." He believes there is what he calls the other story in the text. He believes there is another story in the text.

There is something in Sarah's story that we miss. If Abraham is considered the father of the people of faith, then Sarah has to be the mother. Because everywhere Abraham went, Sarah was right there. Sarah may have had more faith than Abraham.

In the text, we see a crack in Sarah's faith armor.

She had so much faith, she even tried to help God out.

Connectional Interests Abraham never suggested it, but he didn't turn it down either. Even back then that didn't work out right. The problem was not anything with Abraham's actions; it was time. Disappointment came in because time was running out on Sarah. Time will cause us to walk out on God. In the text three men, angels show up. It had never happened before. It was only when Sarah was having a crisis that Sarah was ever asked about her faith. God shows up when you need him, and Sarah was supposed to be reassured. But she laughed. Not out loud, but she laughed. She was not being disrespectful but practical, logical. When we get to a place where it becomes unthinkable for us, the question is, is there anything too hard for God? The next thing in the text says Sarah is laughing for joy because she has a son. I have learned to trust in God no matter the problem, obstacle, how high the Conference claims, whatever. Through it all God has made a way and brought us here. Don't let time steal your victory! Hold on! Hold On! Hold on!

Bishop Thomas Brown – Hebrews 11:1-2, "The Faith of Our Founders." We have gathered here on a milestone, a watershed moment, the 80th anniversary of Phillips School of Theology. Eighty is symbolized by an oak tree and represents strength and longevity. We gather to celebrate an oak tree in theological education.

In this church and beyond it, this oak tree has produced acorns, seeds all over. This production requires a seed bed, and there has been a production of ideas and theological thoughts.

When some have asked him why this seminary, because of the poor quality of some of the students, Bishop Brown says he has responded that other seminaries have also produced poor-quality seeds. Yet Phillips School of Theology has also produced great scholars who are noted and wanted all over the world.

The writer of Hebrews addresses a world like our present one in which the notion was that anybody of color wasn't worth a dime. Bishop Brown considers the preacher was black, not because of his color but because of his agenda. He preaches to a congregation that is tired, worn out, and ready to throw in the towel.

The established songs and rituals were in disuse and considered obsolete. The preacher posed that they were descending because they consider their traditions and Christology were out-of-date. The writer of Hebrews does not seek to define faith, but to describe faith. He says it is the assurance, and it is the conviction.

First, the founders' faith was daring. (Faith is not

CME-Affiliated Schools a possession: rather it possesses us.) Faith is undergirded by assurance. The founders were daring because they understood and sought this God. You cannot go back to dreams and signs, you must get your theology and Christology right. How do you see Jesus? They had denigrated Jesus to being lower than the angels and Moses. Next level ministry requires a theology and Christology that lifts us. Is it, could it be that the reason we cannot go to the next level because we know how to garden but don't know the Gardener or his Son? Secondly, the founders were convicted that more could be than what they saw. They were not convinced but were convicted. They were arrested and indicted by what they desired. Are we convicted by a vision so that we act on it? Our founders acted on their conviction.

Theological education in some other schools is good, but God bless the child that's got their own. They lived in a time of scarcity and with a language that said they didn't have enough to do or be anything. But they had faith in a God who said you ARE enough. They said and understood that we need a seminary where when the students come out they are a difference in their environment. It wasn't just about a degree or knowledge.

They aimed for people who would make a difference, like coffee beans in hot water.

Finally, they had a faith that was enduring, not enduing. Endurance says there is something beyond what you can see, so you keep on going. Endurance suggests pain and disappointment. Alligators.

This preacher (in Hebrews) says you have gotten too close to alligators. Many have been bitten by false theologies and Christologies. They said we need a seminary of our own. He (the preacher of Hebrews) also said that the Hebrews needed to mind the gap, the gap between basic theology and its further meanings.

Our forefathers saw that church and seminary are not opposites but must work together, even in tension. The preacher did not believe the audience was incapable of thinking, so he challenged them to think beyond foundational Christology.

Many of us spend our time trying to develop eagles. But we need to spend time developing camels.

We are enamored of eagles. The camel is ugly, not desirable. Jesus became disfigured for us.

We have Phillips because of endurance, but we do not and will not continue alone. We are surrounded by a great cloud of witnesses, past and present. And if Phillips is to continue as effective, we must have witnesses for and in the future, who are daring, convicted, and enduring.

May 2024 • The Christian Index

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Submissions

CCPE Graduating Class of Spring 2024 and Program Personnel

Fall 2023 Intensive CCPE Graduation Submitted by Rev. Dr. Ore L. Spragin, Jr. Editor, The Christian Index

Graduation ceremonies for the Fall 2023 Intensive Connectional Clinical Pastoral Education (CCPE) Program of the Christian Methodist Episcopal Church were held on Tuesday, January 9, 2024, at 5:00 P.M. during the meeting of the Phillips School of Theology Pastors' Conference and Founders' Observance in Dunwoody, Georgia. The class consisted of ten (10) students, all of whom were able to attend and participate in the ceremony, while family and friends looked on and celebrated with them. All were presented with certificates of completion.

Program Facilitator Rev. Ermanno Willis issued the call to worship, commencing the festive occasion. a devotion followed, with John Samuel, Jr. leading singing, followed by the offering of prayer by Laquetta Anderson and the reading of Philippians 4:4-9 by Charmaine Hall. CPE Interns/Graduates Gwendolyn Curry and Christopher Lewis were on program to offer reflections on the CPE experience. Afterwards, Bishop Teresa Snorton (Chair, CME Board of Chaplains), Bishop Thomas Brown (Vice Chair, CME Board of Chaplains), and Rev. Dr. Brenda Wallace (ACPE Educator) presented each graduate with a certificate. At this time, if present, the presiding bishop of each graduate also stood with them and offered congratulations as they received their award. The blessing and benediction were given by Rev. Dr. Brenda Wallace.

Members of the Fall 2023 Intensive Class and their respective episcopal districts are: Laquetta Anderson (4th), Joseph Benberry (2nd), Harold Burton (9th), Gwendolyn Curry (9th), Charmaine Hall (2nd), Christopher Lewis (5th), Lee Redwine (8th), John Samuel (5th), Ricky Sommers (8th), and Tamala Wilburn (1st).

The Connectional CPE Program is a partnership between the Christian Methodist Episcopal Church's Chaplain Endorser's office and the Academy for Public Theology and is open to persons of all faith traditions, clergy and lay. For more information, visit the website at https://thecmechurch.org/connectional-clinical-pastoraleducation-ccpe/.

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Submissions

Thirteen Commit to Jesus at New Harmony Submitted by Shirley Gilliam Saturday, February 10, 2024, was a cloudy, damp day, but it was the day that the Lord had made. Oh, what a joyous occasion it was! New Harmony CME Church, led by Rev. Jeffery Howard, performed something that had not been done in over 60 years. Pastor Howard baptized ten (10) candidates, and on Sunday morning, February 11th, three (3) candidates were extended the Right Hand of Fellowship. This made a total of 13. With prayers and the help of God, our church membership is growing.

Our Saturday began at 12 noon. The ceremony took place at St. John Baptist Church, Lanett, Alabama. Our opening song was, "A Charge to Keep I Have," led by Brother Anthony Brasfield and a prayer followed. Rev. Howard read the meaning of baptism and spoke briefly to the candidates as they gathered around the altar.

Afterward, one-by-one the candidates were led into the pool: Little Legend Carter Elliott Passmore Wyatt Passmore Asante Passmore Isaac Passmore Larson Carter Laniyda Carter Dereona Gibson Shedrica Carter Lavarius Carter The ceremony ended with more reading and the singing of, "This Little Light of Mine," led by one of our youngest members, Isaac Passmore.

The candidates who were extended the Right Hand of Fellowship on Sunday were: Sister Brenda Buckner, Sister Zeniyda Johnson and Brother Charles Beach. All 10 baptismal candidates received a certificate of baptism, and the 3 others received a membership certificate along with cards, a Bible and other gifts.

To God be the Glory!

May 2024 • The Christian Index

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Submissions VESSELS A-B-C’s For Candidate and Legislation Support or Opposition

Public Policy Pulpit Pews People Polls= Power™

Religious institutions have a non-profit, non-partisan 501c3 IRS designation. The following should be observed by pastors, staff and church leadership.

VESSELS

Believ

Speak

Your V

Allow Political Candidates to Use Name For Support No – Church Yes - Pastor1 “But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellence of Allow Political Candidates to Preach or Read Scripture Without Contribution Solicitation or Personal Votenot Message maybe of God and of us. During We areService hard-pressed on every side, yet n Yes – Church – Pastor but not in despair; persecuted, but not forsaken; struck we N/A are perplexed, not destroyed … we have the same spirit of faith, according to what is Appearance of Candidate(s) at Church Meeting/Service Without Complimentary Words or Remarks from Candidate(s) believed therefore I spoke,’”…

Yes – Church N/A –and Pastor

2 Corinthians 4:7-9; 1

Campaign for Candidates (Including Church Members) No – Church Yes – Pastor

You Are A Vessel, Full of Power

Church Bulletin/Program/Website Announcement By Staff/Pastor Endorsing/Opposing -Believe and SpeakCandidate With Your Vote!

No – Church No – Pastor

V E Church Bulletin/Program/Website Posting Of All Candidate Views on Political Issues S N/A - Pastor Yes – Church S Conduct Non-Partisan Voter Registration and Education Efforts Pursuant to State Guidelines Yes – Church E Yes - Pastor Contribute to Political Action Committee (PAC’s) L Yes - Pastor No – Church Contribute to Political CandidatesS No – Church Yes – Pastor

ote with a vision and values in mind for the environment, schools,

Church Bulletin/Program/Website Posting Commentary on Political Issues Without Direction to Who Votestate!

For families, jobs, a better city,as a better county, ato stronger quip self and – others with a spirit of “light to shine out of darkness”!

Yes – Church N/A Pastor trengthen the presence of church and community at every precinct! tand and support the democratic process!

ncourage and embrace power to make wise decisions about who should represent in the state house, the Governor’s mansion and the halls of Congress. eave excuses and apathy at home - know vote does count in every election! tep into the voting booth, pause, pray, give thanks for the opportunity to speak with clarity, cast vote and give praise for good stewardship of one of God’s many blessings – the right to vote!

Distribute Statements and Opinions for All Candidates in Church Parking Lot (no endorsement) Yes – Church N/A - Pastor Distribute Candidate Surveys and Incumbent Voting Records (without comment) Yes – Church Yes – Pastor Distribute Position Papers Supporting or Opposing Legislation or Citizen Initiatives Yes – Pastor Yes – Church2 Educate Current and Future Voters on Viewpoints of All Candidates Yes – Church Yes – Pastor Educate on Political Process and Social/Economic/Political Legislative Issues at Local, State and Federal Levels Yes – Church Yes - Pastor Encourage Community and Church Members to Vote For or Against Legislation or Citizen Initiatives (Ballot Initiatives) Yes - Church3 Yes - Pastor Endorse or Oppose Political Candidates (Any Office) No – Church Yes – Pastor No – Church

Fundraise for Candidates

Yes – Pastor

In-kind and Independent Expenditures For or Against a Political Candidate No – Church Yes – Pastor

Submitted by Dr. Barbara C. Campbell Social Concerns Chair, Sixth Episcopal District Member Shy Temple CME Church 20

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Prayer for Cou

Father, let nothing I ha said get in the way of prayer for courage on E to get up, get out, and g I pray that You will gr courage to stand in the v for those who can’t, wit are, for my values and my vote. Sometimes I fee in times like these, “but w treasure in earthen vess excellence of the powe You and not of us … W pressed… not crushed… but not in despair, per not forsaken, struck do destroyed.” My hope a is in You. I am a vesse power. Thank You for way from the pulpit t to the people to the p power expressed and celebration, in Jesus nam

Submissions

Introduce Political Candidates at Church (no endorsement) Yes – Church Yes – Pastor Invite All Candidates To A Church Organized Community Forum Yes – Church (lobby limits as a 501c3) Yes – Pastor Lobby or Advocate for Candidates to Support or Oppose Legislation or Citizen Initiatives Yes – Church Yes - Pastor Participate in Petition Drives/Ballot Initiatives Supporting or Opposing Legislation or Citizen Initiatives Yes – Church Yes - Pastor Preach Sermons on Social Issues and Concerns to Encourage Activism Yes – Church Yes - Pastor Rent Church Facilities (all candidates must be allowed or invited to similarly rent) Yes – Church N/A - Pastor Rent or Loan Church Mailing/Email List to All Candidates – Same Terms, Same Price Yes – Church N/A – Pastor Rent or Loan Church Mailing/Email List to Advocacy/Lobby Group Yes – Church N/A – Pastor No-Church

Speak At A Political Event Yes-Pastor (As an individual)

Support or Oppose Judicial, Department or Cabinet Appointments No – Church Yes – Pastor No – Church

Support or Oppose Judicial Candidates

Yes – Pastor

Support or Oppose Legislation that Directly Relates to the Church as an Organization Yes – Church Yes - Pastor Support or Oppose Legislation Unrelated to Church as an Organization Yes – Church Yes - Pastor Support or Oppose Other Political Appointments of Non-Elected Officials Yes – Church Yes – Pastor Use of Church Facilities by Advocacy/Lobbying Groups to Inform of Social Issues Yes – Church N/A – Pastor

ARE YOU READY TO BE A VESSEL? ARE YOU READY TO ADVOCATE - VOTE?

VESSELS are people of faith - clergy, pastors, ministry and community leaders, men, women and young adults - firmly committed to increasing civic participation in communities that traditionally have been disenfranchised or discriminated against. VESSELS provides a non-partisan way to engage in the political process that resonates with the identity of faith communities. VESSELS stand firmly against apathy and disengagement and the ploys of the conservatives who engage in voter suppression tactics. VESSELS create opportunities to conduct non-partisan voter registration, voter information and voter (issue) education to maximize the participation of informed voting age African Americans in the electoral process in every special, local, state, national election. You Are A VESSEL Full of Power! Join us at www.VESSELSVOTE.org or call 202-467-4999 for more information.

VESSELS is a non-partisan, faith based model for civic engagement, voter empowerment, year round initiative of African American Religious Affairs (AARA) department of People For the American Way Foundation (www.pfaw.org) and implemented by the members of the African American Ministers Leadership Council (AAMLC) and its partners. Visit vesselsvote@pfaw.org.

Minister Leslie Watson Malachi, National Director (lmalachi@pfaw.org), 1101 15th Street NW, Suite 600,Washington, DC 20005 202-467-4999 * www.vesselsvote.org 1. In his or her own individual capacity, a pastor may endorse or oppose any candidate for elective office and accordingly, “Pastor” is referenced herein in that respect. A pastor may also include his or her title and church affiliation in a personal endorsement with the disclaimer: “Title and affiliation for identification purposes only.”

2. As a 501c3 organization churches can support or oppose legislation as long as doing so does not become a substantial part of the overall operation. 501c4 organizations, of which churches are not, can support or oppose legislation without limits.

3. Same as stated above.

4. See footnote #2 5. As a 501c3 a church can support or oppose without limits legislation that directly affects its structure and operation as an organization. Example: Efforts to repeal tax-exempt status of churches, places of worship.

6. See footnote #2

Operation E.M.R.

Register…Educate… Mobilize

AFRICAN AMERICAN CATHOLIC CONGREGATION

A project of the A.M.E.Church

May 2024 • The Christian Index

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Submissions

Intergenerational Bridges of Leadership Development Submitted by Rev. Dr. Leslie Harrell

Clipart: https://www.publicdomainpictures.net/pictures/40000/velka/tower-bridge-london-clipart.jpg. Accessed 4-21-2024.

The multi-generational nature of churches in the Christian Methodist Episcopal Church is a strength that allows for diverse perspectives, experiences, and skills to come together in the service of Christ and the Church. Intergenerational bridges of leadership development play a crucial role in integrating the different age groups within the church and creating a platform for nurturing and empowerment. In fostering this bridge, the multi-generational Church can identify and create a structure that connects its members through an intergenerational leadership framework. This framework recognizes the value and contributions of each age group and provides opportunities for them to engage in ministering work together.

Empowering leaders within the Church allows them to serve their communities strategically and embrace their leadership roles. By recognizing and utilizing each generation's unique strengths and perspectives, the Church can effectively address the needs and challenges of its members and the wider community.

Intergenerational leadership development is about creating meaningful connections and relationships between different generations. It fosters collaboration, mentorship, and growth among leaders of different ages. It creates a sense of unity and shared purpose within the Church, as members from different generations work together towards common goals. It involves intentionally bridging the gap and promoting collaboration, mentorship, and growth across age groups. This approach allows for the sharing of wisdom and experience from older generations while also providing opportunities for younger generations to learn, grow, and contribute their unique perspectives. Embracing 22

The Christian Index • May 2024

an intergenerational leadership framework, the Christian Methodist Episcopal Church can harness the collective strengths of its members and create a vibrant and inclusive community.

This approach not only strengthens the Church internally but also enables it to effectively fulfill its mission of spreading the transformative work of Christ in the world. Recognizing the different age groups' diverse needs, perspectives, and strengths is essential for effective intergenerational leadership development. This involves creating spaces for open dialogue, understanding, and collaboration among members of all generations.

While culture may play a significant role in creating a space for effective leadership development, understanding the unique cultural context of the Church and its leadership roles is crucial for effective leadership development.

In [so doing], each congregation can look at the roles of leadership, biblical succession planning, intentional leadership development, community engagement, and discipleship as essential components of leadership development. The Church must reconnect with its leadership design and intentionally cultivate effective leaders. By empowering leaders, the Church can strategically serve its communities and embrace its leadership role throughout the church and the communities it serves Intergenerational bridges of leadership development bring the Church into a place of reconnecting with its leadership design and taking a deliberate approach to cultivating effective leaders. [This approach] allows for bridging.

Bridging is closing a gap that brings together generations and creates meaningful connections

Submissions between age groups, whereby all are recognized and honored [...] Intergenerational leadership development is a powerful strategy for nurturing and propelling the Church toward its ultimate goal of spreading the transformative work of the Kingdom of God. In considering the intergenerational approach to leadership development, leaders can create a Church design that promotes mentoring, collaboration, and growth by understanding the unique characteristics of such a Church and utilizing transformational and servant leadership theories. Intergenerational bridges of leadership development can create a foundation for Christian discipleship and the development of effective leaders in the Church by promoting the following strategies: 1.

Acknowledging and valuing the contributions of all age groups: Recognize the wisdom, experience, and perspectives each generation brings. Create intergenerational dialogue and collaboration opportunities where everyone's voice is heard and respected.

2.

Fostering a culture of mentorship and discipleship: Encourage older generations to mentor and pass on their knowledge and skills to younger generations. Provide structured mentorship programs and opportunities for younger leaders to learn from seasoned leaders.

3.

Creating intentional leadership development programs: Design programs and initiatives that specifically target the development of leaders across different age groups. Provide training, resources, and support to help individuals grow their leadership abilities.

4.

Promoting community engagement:

Encourage the Church to engage with the wider community and address its needs actively. This can involve organizing outreach programs, community service projects, and partnerships with local organizations.

5.

Embracing biblical succession planning: Recognize the importance of passing on leadership roles and responsibilities to the next generation. Develop a clear plan for identifying and preparing future leaders, ensuring a smooth leadership transition.

6.

Emphasizing servant leadership: Teach and model the principles of servant leadership, where leaders prioritize the needs of others and work towards the common good.

Encourage leaders to lead by example and serve as role models for others.

7.

Utilizing transformational leadership theories: Apply theories that inspire and motivate others to achieve their full potential. Encourage leaders to empower and uplift those around them, creating a culture of growth and development.

By implementing these strategies the Church can create a vibrant and inclusive framework that nurtures and empowers leaders of all ages.

This approach not only strengthens the Church internally but also enables it to positively impact the lives of its members and the communities it serves.

Being intentional about strengthening the Church internally through intergenerational leadership development, the Church becomes better equipped to serve and impact the communities it serves. It can effectively address social issues, provide support and guidance, and be a positive force for change.

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

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Submissions

Without Vision, People Perish: Crisis of Leadership and Need for Change Submitted by Rev. James Greene Pastor, Armstead CME Church, Florence, Alabama

Proverbs 29:18: Where there is no vision, the people perish: but he that keepeth the law, happy is he. (KJV) Proverbs 29:18 beckons loudly for change in the Church. Emerging church research counts a steady decline in US Christianity from 92% in 1972 down to 64% in 2020; and it is expected to plunge below 50% by 2070. (Gabbatt, 2023) Vanishing congregations combined with challenging societal issues such as sexuality, restrictive voting rights, and economic disparities continue to negatively impact the church. However, a proper examination of Proverbs 29:18 helps us to see the true need and remedy.

The church is created to follow GOD. The wisdom of GOD is what the writer of Proverbs 29 was referring to when he declared a need for “vision.” Modern, more accurate translations clarify the scripture. The New Revised Standard Version translates the verse as, “Where there is no prophecy, the people cast off restraint; but blessed is the one who heeds wisdom’s instruction.” Only through GOD’s direction can we succeed. GOD has provided the warning, but are we willing to heed the warning, or do we ignore it? Leaders at all levels must proactively engage the church body as GOD leads. CHRIST centered leadership is the only way to build the body of the church.

GOD calls us to follow HIM because HE is the source of all truth. Yet today, we live in a world justified by our own feelings. We would rather hold fast to hollow assemblies, devoid of spiritual awakening, in churches that are increasingly irrelevant to the communities around them. Bishop Norris Curry divined, “purpose and meaning in business administration steadily form and reform the administrative pattern to meet contemporary requirements.” (Curry, 1976). The Black Church in general and the Christian Methodist Episcopal Church (CMEC) specifically, is being winnowed by demographic changes and financial sustainability concerns. For us to prosper, we must have a unified effort to instruct the physical, financial, and moral solvency of our beloved Zion. The unified effort required is the consistent adherence to a sound foundation, rooted in scripture and the direction of the HOLY SPIRIT alone.

We must be wary and not wander outside of GOD’s favor and protection. Only divine guidance can lead and keep us in righteousness. Our leadership fails when we watch a community around us change, and we remain increasingly disengaged. Our leadership fails when we create costs that we cannot afford to pay. Our leadership fails when we ignore the declining membership and declining giver-ship. Our leadership fails when we do not hold each other accountable.

The CMEC can improve with progressive change. Vision requires three elements that we have to address to preserve and then grow our Church: Transparency, Integrity, and Innovation.

Vision requires: Transparency: Regarding Habakkuk’s vision the Lord commanded, “Write the vision; make it plain on tablets.” (Habakkuk 2:2) How can we progress if we can’t see where we are going? All actions 24

The Christian Index • May 2024

Submissions from finance to evangelism have to be made clear to the entire body, so that everyone is working toward the same goal. Too often, we are silent on what is spent and how it is spent. The negative impact of this silence is that givers stop giving. Resources dry up. Financial stewardship requires transparency. We have to be more transparent about the financial, structural, and moral business of the church. Without increased transparency, we will continue to experience the disengagement of membership.

Integrity: The requirement to be consistent with the values GOD has established for HIS church.

We have to be better than the world around us. “The conduct of some leaders and followers of the Church, on every level of church administration, conveys the idea that our logic is in error by disregarding [accountability, the] noble heritage of Methodism.” (Curry, 1976). We cannot allow ourselves to get weighed down with pettiness, vindictiveness, and selfishness. Accountability is both a mark of Christian service and good administration. We must work together as men and women of redeemed moral character.

Innovation: We have received the great call to minister to “the least of these.” (Matthew 25:45) In order to engage the whole body, we must innovatively engage our members and potential members.

Our church does not have a national response to the demographic shift that balances the initiatives of both rural and urban churches within the same area. The Church still waits for a comprehensive effort to consolidate growth initiatives. We have urban churches sustained by commuters from the suburbs and rural CMEC members driving past other CME churches to get to the church where “grandmama” was a member!

We are struggling to grow under the fragility of congregations sustained by octogenarians, praise GOD for their consistency. Yet, as older members have their labor transferred to reward, we are straining to [fill] the administrative and financial [positions] those members held. We will be greatly restored with the implementation of innovative funding strategies. We have to be smart about how we out-reach and in-reach. We cannot be afraid to do the hard work of transforming our structure to best meet the challenges of the day.

The seeds that we plant today determine the harvest we reap tomorrow. We need a stringent examination of our denomination. The ministry of JESUS demonstrated a responsiveness to the prevailing culture and met the needs of contemporary Christians, while preserving HIS righteousness.

Leaders at all levels are called to do the same. From administration and clergy, to parishioner, we all must be diligently leading the growth and change required. As Proverbs 29:18 reminds us, “blessed is the one who heeds wisdom’s instruction.”

Works Cited Curry, B. N. (1976). Theoretical & Practical Views of Spirit, Laws & Discipline Evangelistically Understood in the Methodist Way. Los Angeles, CA: Mc Printing and Publishing Company.

Gabbatt, A. (2023, January 22). Losing their religion: why US churches are on the decline. Retrieved from The Guardian: https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2023/jan/22/us-churches-closing-religion-covid-christianity

May 2024 • The Christian Index

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Submissions

A Day of Intercessory Prayer Submitted by Eunice C. Guyton Membership and Evangelism

"Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God." Philippians 4:6 In January 2024, under the spiritual leadership of Pastor Omar L. Dykes, Israel Metropolitan CME Church (IMC), Greenville, South Carolina, began an Intercessory Prayer Initiative.

On Tuesday, January 16, 2024, IMC's Faith, Learn, Thrive Team, a partnership with Hood Theological Seminary in Salisbury, North Carolina, spearheaded several intercessory prayer vigils throughout the Greenville community. Members also prayed individually at their homes, with their families and friends and co-workers, without regard to ethnicity or age.

Prayer petitions centered on social issues related to families, seniors, young adults, children, and youth. It included housing for the disenfranchised, single mothers, and the elderly. Our prayer petitions sought justice in the courtrooms and proper training of law enforcement officers to eliminate police brutality. We prayed that our local, state, and national government and elected officials will promote safety in our schools, communities, workplaces, and provide skill and economic training. We prayed for the empowerment of fair elections, improved voting rights, the enactment of hate crime laws, gun control laws, criminal justice reforms and curtailing gerrymandering.

Our petitions encompassed fair housing laws, improved healthcare, and reduction in healthcare costs for those relying on Medicaid, Medicare, and Social Security to meet their daily needs. We prayed for those living in communities that are food deserts because they lack supermarkets and for a stable public transportation system for workers. Our prayers urged elected officials to listen to our voices by enacting legislative changes and incorporating programs that would improve the lives of all citizens regardless of ethnicity, gender, age, or economic status. We also prayed for the protection of our religious freedom and freedom of speech.

Intercessory Prayer vigils were conducted at The School District of Greenville County, the Greenville Federal Courthouse, the Greenville Law Enforcement Center, the Greenville County 13th Circuit Court, and the Phillis Wheatley Community Center. Members, friends, and coworkers of IMC joined collectively and lifted up their prayer petitions to God Almighty.

Shared faith bears fruit, putting us on the front line so that we become personally engaged in affecting change. Our faith tells us that through God we have the power and authority to bring forth the problems of life and lay them down before Him. Even though we cannot change the direction of the wind, through the power of the Holy Spirit we can adjust the sails. Therefore, we beseeched God to move in the lives of His people so that we can work collaboratively to address these needs Before departing from these stations, we rejoiced, believing God Almighty heard the cries of His people, and we are so thankful for His faithfulness. He is a promise keeper! We thanked Him for allowing us the opportunity on this day to petition on behalf of His people and the community.

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Submissions

To God be the glory for all the things He does on a daily basis. Ephesians 6:18 reminds us: " ... pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord's people."

In closing, IMC has implemented an Intercessory Prayer Ministry, lead by Sister Shari Brock.

May 2024 • The Christian Index

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Submissions

CME Pastor Earns Doctorate at the ITC with Ministry Project, Revitalization of CME Churches Submitted by Sharon Francis-Thomas, DMin

Reverend Sharon Francis-Thomas, ordained elder of the Southeast Alabama Conference, graduated summa cum laude from the Interdenominational Theological Center (ITC) and Phillips School of Theology in May of this year with the degree of Doctor of Ministry. Dr. Thomas immigrated to the United States from Trinidad and Tobago in the early 2000’s, was ordained a deacon and then Elder in the CME Church, and has pastored churches in Orville, Alabama and Selma, Alabama. In addition to pastoring, Reverend Dr. Francis-Thomas is an educator, a mother of two, and a grandmother of six.

Reverend Dr. Francis-Thomas' ministry project was entitled, “Revitalization of Churches in the Southeast Alabama Region of the Christian Methodist Episcopal Church.” Extracts from the dissertation are shown below.

Abstract Plateaued and declining churches in the Southeast Alabama Region of the Christian Methodist Episcopal Church face small and shrinking congregations, an exodus of youth and young adults, and the inability to attract new members. This project, biblically grounded in John 7:35-37, asserts the possibility of church revitalization by reconnection with the Spirit of Christ, the God of resurrection and revitalization, and sought to create a model by which this could be accomplished. It employed a mixed methods qualitative approach using a survey instrument and focus groups. Survey respondents and focus group participants were primarily pastors, but included some laity. Reimagined worship, refocus on mission, retraining of pastors and laity, and rethinking of pastoral assignments are some of the changes 28

The Christian Index • May 2024

found to be necessary.

One conclusion is that effective church revitalization is dependent on changes to long held institutional practices and must begin at the denominational level.

This work can serve as an impetus and model for those seeking to do further research on church decline and revitalization in the Christian Methodist Episcopal Church and other African American denominations.

Church Decline and its Symptoms Church decline is a phenomenon experienced by churches across North America in all the major Protestant denominations. Its symptoms include decrease in membership, decrease in worship attendance, decrease in Sunday School attendance, deteriorating stewardship, and deteriorating infrastructure (Lawrence, 2008), as well as the absence of conversions and baptisms. The website fifthavenuechristian.org reports that less than half the churches exist in America today, than existed one hundred years ago; and that of the 250,000 Protestant churches in America, 80% are either plateaued or in decline. It reports that 4000 churches die each year, and that 3,500 people leave the church every day. The beginning of the 21st century saw increases in the number of unchurched people across America, with numbers as high as 70 to 80 percent of the population (Malphurs, 2021). The effects of forced church closures during the period of the COVID 19 pandemic further exacerbated church decline and resulted in what one writer described as the “tapestry of dominant American Christianity … unraveling” (Spellers, 2021).

Causes of Church Decline The apparent causes of church decline as reported in the literature are many and varied: lack of evangelism, absence of discipleship, internal strife, poor leadership, loss of vision and purpose, having a maintenance mode and being inward looking instead

Submissions of looking outwardly, decline of neighborhood, changing neighborhood demographics, etc. (Olson, 2008; Clifton, 2016). In the United Methodist Church, the 20th century shift from a connectional organization where the basic unit of the church is the annual conference to increasingly autonomous congregations, is implicated as a contributing factor in the decline of the denomination (Lawrence, 2008). Church ageing is also a factor; churches in general begin a long period of decline after 40 years of existence (Olson, 2008). Konagy’s position is that it is God Himself who is dismantling the Church; deconstructing and tearing down a church that no longer reflects Jesus. He calls denominations, death bearing structures, and implies that it is irrational to expect the Holy Spirit to revive denominations which have become primarily rational organizations (Konagy, 2022). In addition to all of this, it has been demonstrated that the church, like living organisms, institutions, organizations and even civilizations, follows a life cycle pattern of birth, growth, plateau, and eventually decline and death.

Decline inevitably follows plateau, which if uninterrupted, leads inevitably to death (Malphurs, 2005). This analysis suggests that different churches will experience varying circumstances but that all will face the challenges of plateau and decline.

Implications for Academic Fields of Study This project contributes at varying levels to the academic disciplines of Church Revitalization Studies, African American or Black Church Studies, African American Methodist Church Studies, Methodist Church Studies, CME Church studies, and the field of Pastoral Theology. It documents the decline of local churches in the Southeast Alabama Region of the CME Church in the early part of the twenty first century, records the causes of decline, and identifies possible steps to recovery. It will be of interest to pastors of all denominations dealing with similar issues, but particularly to pastors of Black Methodist Churches. This researcher noted that while there are multiple studies on Church Growth, Church Health, and Church Revitalization, relatively few of these specifically target African American churches. Studies on Black Church decline and revitalization at the denominational level are needed. Revitalization strategies initiated from and coordinated by denominational leadership will be more effective than strategies arising at the local church level.

Bibliography Clifton, Mark. Reclaiming Glory: Revitalizing Dying Churches. Nashville, TN: B&H Publishing Group, 2016.

Konagy, Conrad. A Church Dismantled, A Kingdom Restored. A C & H podcast 2022.

Lawrence, William B. Methodism in Recovery: Renewing Mission, Reclaiming History, Restoring Health.

Nashville, TN: Abingdon Press, 2008.

Malphurs, Aubrey. Advanced Strategic Planning: A New Model for Church and Ministry Leaders. (2nd ed).

Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Press, 2005.

Olson, David T. The American Church in Crisis. Grand Rapids, Michigan: Zondervan, 2008.

Spellers, Stephanie. The Church Cracked Open: Disruption, Decline, and New Hope for Beloved Community.

New York, NY: Church Publishing Inc., 2021.

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Submissions

A Day in My Life: Balancing Full-Time Ministry, Community Engagement, and Self-Care Submitted by Pastor Kenneth L. Hollingshed Morning Chapel CME Church, Fort Worth, Texas

As a full-time pastor, my days are filled with a myriad of responsibilities, from providing spiritual guidance to administrative duties and community engagement.

I accepted my call to preach at sixteen years of age at Usher’s Temple CME Church in Fort Valley, Georgia, under the leadership of the late Rev. Dr. Robert W. Green. I was nervous and apprehensive, but by faith I followed God’s leading. Now after serving in ministry for over 40 years, and 30 years as a full-time pastor, my days are filled with a plethora of responsibilities, challenges, and blessings. Each day presents new opportunities to serve, lead, and grow in my faith journey. Join me as I provide a glimpse into a typical day in my life as a full-time pastor and share a daily guide that may offer insights and inspiration for leading your congregation.

Full-time pastors should impact the community in the following areas: • Spiritual Leadership: Pastors should serve as spiritual leaders within their communities, guiding individuals and families in matters of faith, spirituality, teaching, and preaching.

• Pastoral Care: Pastors should provide counseling, comfort, and prayer for individuals and families experiencing challenges such as illness, grief, or relationship issues.

• Community Engagement: Pastors should participate in community events, collaborate with local organizations, and organize outreach programs, volunteer initiatives, to support marginalized populations, promote unity, and foster positive change within the community.

To effectively impact your community requires discipline and a structured daily schedule that consists of the following: Morning Routine: Having a structured morning routine is essential for pastors to prepare themselves mentally, spiritually, and emotionally for the day ahead. Pastors should incorporate a morning routine into their daily schedule to impact their communities effectively. He or she should start their morning routine with prayer, meditation, and scripture reading to prepare for the day ahead.

Regular Office Hours: Pastors should establish regular office hours as a practical and effective way to enhance accessibility, accountability, and relationship-building within the congregation.

Administrative Duties: Pastors have a variety of administrative duties alongside pastoral responsibilities.

Administrative duties include the following: Leadership Meetings; Budget Management; Strategic Planning; Collaborating with Church Leadership; Facility Management; Record Keeping; Community Outreach; Leadership Training and Development; Counseling; Pastoral Care; Sunday School; Worship Services; Bible Studies; and Pastoral Challenges.

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Submissions Sermon Preparation: Pastors should engage in study and research for upcoming sermons, develop sermon outlines, gather illustrations, and prepare visual aids.

Pastoral Visits: Pastors should set aside time to visit members of their congregations who are sick and shutin, including hospitals, nursing homes, and homes to provide spiritual support, encouragement, and prayer as needed.

Pastoral Rewards: Rewarding yourself is vital for maintaining a healthy work-life balance and sustaining longevity in ministry. Here are ways pastors can reward themselves: Invest in Personal Development; Attend Conferences, Workshops, and Seminars; Spend Quality Time with Loved Ones; Make time for Physical/ Recreational Activities; Attend Cultural Activities; Celebrate Milestones and Achievements.

In conclusion, each day in my life as a full-time pastor is a sacred journey, guided by faith, love, and community outreach. Through ministry, community outreach, and self-care, I strive to embody the teachings of Christ and make a meaningful difference in the lives of others. As I continue on this path of discipleship, I am humbled and grateful for the opportunity to walk alongside other pastors, sharing in their joys and sorrows, and witnessing the transformative power of God's grace.

Rev. Taylor Recalls Memories in Brownsville, Tennessee Submitted by Rev. Joseph Taylor Rev. Joseph Taylor, a now-retired preacher in the Christian Methodist Episcopal Church is yet going strong in the faith and is proud of the fact that Brownsville, Tennessee, is not only his hometown but is also the home of some noteworthy people, including Bishop Graves, Tina Turner, and some members of his own family.

He cherishes the fact that a preacher of the CME Church hailed from this small town and rose to the office of Senior Bishop.

Rev. Taylor writes, "Tina Turner was a native of the Nutbush community five miles outside of Brownsville and lived about six miles north of our own Bishop William H. Graves, Sr. during her early years.

She lived off Highway 19, and Bishop was about six miles south of her on Highway 87 toward Henning, Tennessee. She recorded the song, 'Walk with Me,' which is number 503 in the CME Hymnal. Her health was failing at that time. I am sure he knew her at Carver Dunbar High School. She graduated from Carver High School during her teen years. I graduated from there in 1967."

Her recording of "Walk with Me" may be heard at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=42d8hotcDfg. Regarding this recording, the site reports, "From the album: The Gospel According to Ike and Tina. This is one of the last albums the duo recorded before their divorce. It was recorded for United Artist Records in 1974."

Ms. Turner was born November 26, 1939 and died May 24, 2023.

Rev. Taylor adds, [I am Although I am now retired, serving the church was a delight to me. I still take an interest in the CME Church and read The Christian Index on a regular basis.]

"Work on being in love with the person in the mirror who has been through so much but is still standing.

Never look down on yourself. Always remember you have WORTH. You have value in you that people need.

Even if you don't feel it, never forget YOU are WORTH IT!"

--Uzochukwu Uzoeghelu May 2024 • The Christian Index

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Submissions

Ebenezer CME Ministry to Men

Thankfulness Prayer Breakfast Submitted by Sis. Tammy Money Board of Christian Education and Formation, Director

On Saturday, November 11, 2023, the Ministry to Men of Ebenezer CME Church, 616 Day Lily St., Loachapoka, Alabama, hosted a Veterans Day Prayer Breakfast for the community. Bro. Mario Money served as our worship leader. We began our worship service with a song, “The Battle Hymn of the Republic.” Opening prayer was offered by Bro. John Bufford, and the scripture was read

by Bro. George Ray. Our veterans were recognized by Sis. Sandra Simon. She spoke about each of the veterans (l-r): Bro. Gregory Lockhart, Bro. George Ray, Bro. Calvin Payne, Rev. John sharing their time in service, the branch Johnson, Rev. Robert Strickland, Bro. Willie Waldon, Bro. Mario Money, Bro. Gregory Moss, and Bro. John Bufford. where they served, and highlights of what they did while serving. As their names were called, Sis. Tammy Money pinned each of them with a red, white, and blue ribbon. A special table was set in remembrance of those that could not be with us. This was followed by silent prayer.

The ACTS prayer model was used as we began to pray. A Prayer of “A’- adoration was given by Sis. Emogene Crittenden. Prayer of “C”- confession was given by Bro. Willie Waldon. Prayer of “T”- thanksgiving was given by Master LaDerrick Ware. Prayers were concluded with a prayer of “S”Supplication by Sis. Jeanette Smith. The song of praise, “Thank You Jesus for My Journey,” was rendered by Sis. Arlene Edwards. The song reminded us why we were there, which was to give thanks.

Breakfast was catered by Western Sizzlin, blessed by our pastor, Rev. Robert Strickland, and served by the Ministry to Men members. Rev. Strickland and First Lady Colleen Strickland did a drawing with multiple giveaways and fun. The message for the Thankfulness Breakfast was given by Rev. Earnest Griggs, who reminded us that the family held down the home front while the veterans answered the call of duty.

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Submissions Continued from previous page Closing remarks were rendered by the MontgomeryPhenix City-Opelika District Ministry to Men Director, Rev. John Johnson. Our local Director of Ministry to Men, Bro. Calvin Payne, also gave closing remarks and thanked everyone for coming. By any measure, the Veteran’s Day Prayer Breakfast was a success. The body and spirit were well fed, and Rev. Strickland closed the event with prayer.

NOW AVAILABLE!!!

The Christian Index . . . ONLINE issuu.com/OreSpragin

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The Christian Index • May 2024

• Issues available from March 2020 for online viewing only • Cost: $5.00 per issue or $30.00 per year • Profit shared equally by the Department of Publications and the Department of The Christian Index

Submissions

Celebrating Melody M. Hawkins Submitted by Frankie H. Williams Melody M. Hawkins Educator Instructional Leader Social-Emotional Learning Advocate Teacher Diversity Advocate Teacher Development Coach Melody Hawkins is an educator who is passionate about serving students from under-represented populations and students located in under-resourced communities. As a former eighth-grade science teacher, Mrs. Hawkins provided culturally-relevant experiences infused with social emotional learning to motivate and empower her students to always achieve success. As a current high school administrator, Mrs. Hawkins leads with a passion and belief that all students deserve high-quality, equitable education.

Melody, earned a Bachelor’s degree in Biological Sciences from the University of Tennessee. Upon graduation, Melody served a one-year commitment in AmeriCorps and dedicated her time at the American Red Cross, New Orleans, Louisiana, Chapter, a pivotal experience for Melody's trajectory. After her time in AmeriCorps, Melody immediately pursued a career in diagnostic laboratory science. While working in the laboratory science field, Melody quickly realized the disproportionate number of scientists of color in her field. She channeled this realization and decided she needed to be a part of the solution. Melody redirected her science career to focus on science education, an area that would soon become her passion. She returned to school to receive a Master of Education degree in Curriculum and Instruction from Carson-Newman University while beginning her teaching career at Vine Middle Magnet School in Knoxville, Tennessee. In a small amount of time, Melody has become a teacher-leader in her school, district, and state, serving on district-level science curriculum teams, state-level assessment committees, teacher educator fellowships, assisting with school and district-level professional learning, and opening her classroom door as a model classroom for teachers across her district. Thanks to a Tennessee Department of Education Administrator Development Program, Melody recently earned her second master’s degree in Educational Leadership from Austin-Peay State University and is currently using her leadership to support the academic and social-emotional development of students located in a high-opportunity Knoxville, TN community.

Melody is the recipient of the 2019 and 2021 building-level Teacher of the Year awards, the 2021 Knox County Schools Middle School Science Teacher of the Year, a 2020 Knox.Biz Journal "40 under 40 Most Influential People of Knoxville" award, and most recently was honored as the 2021 National University Teacher of the Year. Melody has been featured in several media outlets and publications and frequently lends her curriculum development and professional development expertise to nationally recognized educational organizations. She was invited to the “Drew Barrymore Show” where she was surprised with the announcement she was the “2021 National University of the Year” award winner. She received $50,000 and a full scholarship to pursue a doctorate at National University. Melody holds two Master Degrees in Education and is currently pursuing a Doctorate in Organizational Innovation.

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Submissions Continued from previous page Melody resides in Knoxville, TN with her husband, Jericho - a fellow University of Tennessee alum - and their two daughters, Madison and Miah.

Melody, is a Jackson, TN native, nurtured by her family, Lane Tabernacle CME Church, and is a graduate of Jackson-Central Merry High School. Her father is Odell, and her mother is Minnie Springfield, who is also a teacher. The current pastor of Lane Tabernacle CME Church is Rev. Dr. H. Leon Williams Sr., Rev. Dr. Claude A. Bass is Presiding Elder, and Bishop Marvin Frank Thomas, Sr. is Presiding Prelate.

Although she is a resident of Knoxville, she retains her membership at Lane Tabernacle and never forgets her church family or the Jackson community. Melody spoke at an Annual Literacy Luncheon sponsored by the National Sorority of Phi Delta Kappa, Inc., in Jackson on March 25, 2023, and at Lane Tabernacle on March 26, 2023, with a theme, “Literacy Matters.” She was awarded a gift and a plaque from Lane Tabernacle for her achievements.

Duren Participates in All American Football Tournament Submitted by Elaine Dyson Travis Duren II is a 9-year-old native of Carrollton, Mississippi. He is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Travis and Katina Duren, a member of Helm Chapel CME Church, and in the 4th grade.

Travis was one of many 9/10 years old football athletes chosen to participate in the 10th Annual All American D1 football tournament in Desota, Texas, in January 2024. This was Mississippi’s first time participating in the Youth League event. Travis is on the Central Mississippi Oilers 9/10 years old football league. He plays in the positions of quarterback and safety.

Travis plans to go back to the 2025 All American Football D1 Nation Tournament which will be held in Las Vegas. Rev. Dr. William Dyson is the pastor of Helm Chapel CME Church, Rev. Dr. Jamie Capers is the Presiding Elder, and Bishop Kenneth W. Carter is the Presiding Prelate.

"Never limit your prayers because you think you're sinful or undeserving. You're not praying because of who you are. You're praying because of who He is."

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--Joan Watson

Children/Youth

Wordsearch Puzzle for May (Health Emphases for the Month of May)

ADVOCACY ALLERGY ANALYZE ARTHRITIS ASTHMA BLOOD PRESSURE (HIGH) CELIAC DISEASE CYSTIC FIBROSIS DETECTION EDUCATION HEARING HEPATITIS

LUPUS MENTAL HEALTH OLDER AMERICANS OSTEOPOROSIS PREVENTION SENIORS SKIN CANCER SPEECH STROKE SUPPORT TEEN PREGNANCY TREATMENT

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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 • May 2024

Ecumenical

Archbishop of Canterbury to receive honorary degree from the University of Aberdeen Submitted by Communications, University of Aberdeen

The University of Aberdeen will award an honorary degree to the Archbishop of Canterbury in recognition of his contribution to faith and society.

The Most Reverend Justin Welby will be presented with the degree of Doctor of Divinity at a special ceremony on Tuesday, May 7, 2024.

Ordained in 1992 after an 11-year career in the oil industry, the Archbishop spent his first 15 years serving in Coventry diocese, often in places of significant deprivation.

In 2002 he was made a Canon of Coventry Cathedral, where he jointly led its international reconciliation work. During this time he worked extensively in Africa and the Middle East.

He was Dean of Liverpool from 2007 to 2011 and Bishop of Durham from 2011 to 2012, before being announced as the 105th Archbishop of Canterbury in late 2012.

He is well-known for his willingness to speak publicly in the media on issues that the nation faces and for his honesty and openness about his life and faith.

Archbishop Welby has mobilised the Church of England specifically against pay-day lenders and gambling machines and has made important contributions as a member of the Parliamentary Commission on Banking Standards.

The University of Aberdeen has been an influential centre for theological study since its earliest foundation in 1495, as the third oldest University in Scotland and the fifth oldest in the UK. The Foundation Bull, granted by Pope Alexander VI in 1495, stated that one of the main purposes of the newly founded university was to provide the very best theological education.

Today, Divinity and Theology degrees at Aberdeen concentrate on the study of Christian faith, life and doctrine in its historical, philosophical, literary, institutional and contemporary contexts and the discipline consistently scores highly across all major league tables.

Aberdeen is also an important centre of research with Theology and Religious Studies ranked top in the UK in the latest Research Excellence Framework, a measure used to examine the quality of university outputs and to look at the differences institutions make to the wider world.

A colloquium on Ecclesiology after Christendom with ten world-leading theologians will take place at the University in the week of the honorary graduation and the Archbishop will join a number of the sessions.

University of Aberdeen Principal and Vice-Chancellor, Professor George Boyne, said: “Theological study has been an important part of the University of Aberdeen for more than five centuries, so we are pleased to recognise the Archbishop’s contribution to an area of our work that was ranked first in the UK in the most recent Research Excellence Framework results.”

Professor Sir Iain Torrance, Pro-Chancellor of the University, added: “Within the life of the church, Archbishop Welby has strived to maintain unity within a global ecclesial community which has at times been very divided. His work in peacebuilding, reconciliation and forgiveness has been honest and powerful. Furthermore, under his Archepiscopal tenure, women have for

the first time been able to be consecrated bishops—in no small part due to his guidance and vision.

“For these and his many other contributions to the ministry of the church, to public theology, and to service of our nation, we are delighted to award him the degree of Doctor of Divinity.”

May 2024 • The Christian Index

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Obituaries

Joining the Great Cloud

Laura Norwood Davis

Dereeser Metcalf Armstrong

Laura Norwood Davis, known to some as (Annie Laura) was born October 23, 1943, to the union of Percy and Charlie Pauline Lott Norwood in Carroll County.

She attended Carroll County Schools, graduating from Marshall High School in 1963. She furthered her education at Alcorn State University with a B.S. in Business Education and later received her Special Education Certification from Mississippi Valley State University (MVSU). Laura taught school in Leake and Montgomery Counties, and she worked as a Financial Aid Counselor at MVSU. Laura was an active member of Helm Chapel CME Church, serving as Church Secretary and Trustee. She also served as a member of the Missionary Society and was on the Board of Christian Education. She held the distinguished honor of being the first black female to be elected to serve on the Carroll County School Board and was the first to be named School Board Member of the Year for the State of Mississippi.

Laura was also a Lifetime member of the Mississippi Association of Educators (MAE), the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP), the Carroll Development Association, and Theta Pi Zeta Chapter of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. She finished this chapter of her life on Sunday, December 31, 2023.

Waiting to greet her at the river are her parents, son (Anthony), sisters (Alfreeda & Lorene), and brothers (Percy, Jr. and Willie Norwood, Sr.). She will be remembered by her grandsons, Antonio (Chantel) and Jonte Montgomery; granddaughter, Amaya Davis; great grandchildren, Ava Paige and Chase Pierre; brother, James (Rosie) Norwood; sisters, Ruth Flowers, Willie Smith, sister in-law, Verna Norwood; children from a different mother, Tiffany Montgomery, Denise Pitchford, Yolundra Wilson, Debbie Taylor, Dedra Flowers, Missy & Roosevelt Curry, Lynn & Jearline Bryant, Obadiah Herndon, Mary and Claude Fluker, and Terry Anderson; special caregivers, Christopher Wadlington, Josie Wilson, Doris Brown, Betty Collins, and Hattie Clay; Helm Chapel Church members; Zeta Sisters; and the community.

Dereeser Metcalf Armstrong was born on May 30, 1953 in Lee County, Mississippi and transitioned to heaven on Wednesday, February 14, 2024. Dereeser was the daughter of Lorenzo Metcalf and Emogene Thomas Metcalf. At a very young age, Dereeser confessed her faith in Jesus Christ and joined Chandlers Temple CME Church in Verona, Mississippi, where she faithfully served as an active member for over 60 years.

As a member of the Christian Methodist Episcopal Church, she served in numerous ministerial capacities including being a member of the Women’s Missionary Society on the local, district and regional levels, as well as a Women’s Missionary Council secretary for several years.

Dereeser participated in, sponsored, and directed many youth groups, choirs, directorial productions [plays, skits, and musical arts], and other activities. One of her most enjoyable and rewarding duties was serving as the pianist, soloist, and choir director for many congregations across northeast Mississippi. She coached, taught and mentored many musicians, and serving the Lord in this capacity was one of her proudest joys.

Dereeser was the esteemed mother of three children, Joseph Metcalf (Tupelo, MS), Heather Armstrong (Tupelo, MS), and Camille Warren (Parkville, MD). Dereeser was united in marriage to Lonnie Malcom Armstrong on October 15, 1983. She was relentlessly and lovingly supportive of her grandchildren: Dzyre Gildon, Gavin Shannon, Kamal Ewing (H), Kyra Armstrong, and Langston Warren.

Dereeser distinguished herself as a natural leader and scholar. She graduated from Tupelo High School and following, she matriculated to Itawamba Community College and eventually earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration from Mississippi Industrial College. She utilized this degree by specializing in teaching business college at a local night school, substitute teaching in Lee County, and working many years as an insurance adjuster. She also held a niche in fashion, becoming an entrepreneur who specialized in the latest trends. She would travel across the state modelling and displaying her passion.

In addition to being an educator and fashionista, Dereeser was a tireless community servant, which led her

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Obituaries

Joining the Great Cloud

to be involved in numerous religious, volunteer, and civic activities. Prior to her weakening health condition, one of her favorite pastimes was assisting those in need, giving a helping hand and a smiling face to everyone she met.

Along with her children and grandchildren, Dereeser is survived by her brother (Danny) and sisters (Jimmie and Linda), a host of special godchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins, friends, and connectional church family. Waiting to greet her in heaven were her parents, Lorenzo and Emogene Metcalf; her brother, William Metcalf; and her sister, Mary Wheeler. Dereeser’s life and legacy will be forever cherished and remembered by her family. She will be forever loved and missed.

Pictures from the PST Pastors' Conference/Founders' Day

May 2024 • The Christian Index

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The Christian Index • May 2024

Register at: https://boldmoneymatters.mykajabi.com/offers/eq6NWcoP/checkout May 2024 • The Christian Index

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The Christian Index • May 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!

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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)

May 2024 • The Christian Index

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"If you can't figure out where you stand with someone, it might be time to stop standing and start walking."

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The Christian Index • May 2024

--Tiffany Johnson

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 Rev. Dr. Jerry D. Woodfork, Sr., Immediate Past President (Class of 2018), 1315 Heatherland Drive SW, Atlanta GA 30331; 404-629-0055; jerrywoodfork@comcast.net.

THE GENERAL OFFICERS Dr. Carmichael Crutchfield - General Secretary, Department of Christian Education & Formation - Suite 300, 4466 Elvis Presley Blvd., Memphis TN 38116-7100; 901-345 4109 (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, 1101 Davis St. - Suite 5224, Evanston IL 60204; 847-274-0182 (main); 312-648-5232 (work); 240-359-6272 (fax);

finance@thecmechurch.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)

May 2024 • The Christian Index

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