The Christian Index - November 2022

Remembering two outstanding former general officers: Dr. Joseph C. Neal, Jr. and Rev. Dr. Raymond F. Williams. See pp. 33-35

THE CHRISTIAN INDEX

The Official Publication Christian Methodist Episcopal Church Copyright © 2022 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., PO Box 161212, Memphis, Tennessee 38286-1212. POSTMASTER: Send Address Changes to The CME Publishing House, P. O. Box 16035, Memphis, TN 38186. THE SUBSCRIPTION RATE IS $30 for one year.

Subscriptions should be sent to Office of the Publisher: The Christian Index, P. O. Box 16035, Memphis, TN 38186. 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 • November 2022

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

Volume 155, Number 11

November 2022

Connectional Interests Department of Finance/Investments Department of Publications Board of Personnel Services Dept. of Evangelism and Missions Dept. of Christian Education/Formation Dept. of CIT Ministers' Spouses, Widows/Widowers CME-Affiliated Schools

Grants Preserve History

BMBC Welcomes USA Guests 2022-2023 Liturgical Calendar Submissions Post Oak Celebrates 144th Anniversary Trinity Welcomes Return of Elder Banks Ampomah to Receive Scholarship Be Bold: Tools for Engagement Hines Memorial Conducts One-Day VBS 2022 - 2023 CME Calendar of Events Lessons Learned Through Friendship Children/Youth Ecumenical News Safeguarding Assets and Records Walker-Smith Elected NA President, WCC Obituaries - Joining the Great Cloud Connectional Directory

4 6 8 9 10 11 12 13 15 22 24 26 28 29 30 31 32 33 35 36 37 43

Cover: Artwork by Andrew Archer. Lower right (l-r): Dr. Joseph C. Neal, Jr. and Rev. Dr. Raymond F. Williams.

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

Submitted to the Publisher: October 25, 2022

Editorial

The Sure Crown "I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith: Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing."

--2 Timothy 4:7-8 (KJV) Can you say with assurance, like Paul, that YOU have fought a good fight, Rev. Dr. Ore L. Spragin, Jr., finished YOUR course, and kept THE faith? Can you, without doubting, claim there Editor is a crown of righteousness waiting for you? Have you known the strength of the Lord in your hour of weakness? Have you been a witness for the Lord, even when it was dangerous to do so? Some of us can give a comfortable witness, but where are we when the Lord wants a voice in an uncomfortable place?

If you give the word, as a teacher or preacher; and if you serve as a witness to his worth and glory, rest assured that God shall deliver you from every evil work. If you are a faithful witness, you may have to go through some opposition or hardships, perhaps like Paul, at the hand of evil and unrighteous people who care nothing for the truth. But God will deliver and will preserve you through the Day of Judgment unto and into his everlasting kingdom. You will reap the harvest of the greatest reward.

Right now, all over the world, people are arguing, debating, scrambling, and vying for political positions and power. Everybody wants you to vote for them as the best candidate while finding fault with, and sometimes even demonizing, their opponents. They want you to focus on the earthly reward or blessings they have promised in their campaign speeches and media ads. They are fighting and seeking your help.

You should be a concerned and active citizen of the country in which you live, becoming knowledgeable and participating in whatever elections or balloting processes are available to you, through which you might help the world be more of a place where love, righteous judgment, and mercy prevail. You should also follow this up with prayers for those who are elected and chosen to positions of earthly power. For things will not always go as you desire them to go.

Thank God there is a kingdom of righteousness where your vote does NOT count, where no ballots will be counted, no fake electors considered, and no election can be stolen; a kingdom that does not depend on your strategies or strengths to establish or maintain it. Thank God for the kingdom of God and his righteousness, which is now and is forevermore, world without end. Amen.

Yes, all earthly kingdoms of every kind, democracies and republics and dictatorships and oligarchies and monarchies and autocracies, even denominations and faith bodies, shall one day be all be done away with, and the glorious and gracious kingdom of Christ shall stand forever. Don’t you want to be a part of that kingdom?

Fight a good fight. Finish your course. Keep THE faith which is in Christ Jesus. Receive the crown.

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.

November 2022 • The Christian Index

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Connectional Interests

CME-Affiliated Schools

Continued from previous page Mississippi Senator Neil Whaley, who introduced Wicker, spoke of the importance of restoring and preserving history. Wicker, who hails from Pontotoc, praised Rust College for the bright future Taylor brings to the institutions. He recognized Belinda Stewart as choice for architect for the projects. Wicker said as a child he passed through Holly Springs at night on his way back and from visits with his grandmother in Memphis, Tennessee.

“Belinda, if you want to know a little more history, I made a speech in 1975 in this very building,” the senator said. He was campaigning for Kay Towery of Oxford for state senator. “That I was here and got to make a speech here. I long, Dr. Ivy Taylor and U.S. Senator Roger Wicker stand in front of Carnegie long thought what a tragedy it would be to lose Hall with other dignitaries and board members Friday. these buildings,” Wicker said. Wicker referred to Hebrews 12: 1-2, “Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us.”

Cecelia W. Sawyer, chair of the board of trustees, closed the presentations referring to “my beloved Alma Mater, Rust College,” which she said is in rebirth and renaissance. Rust and MI colleges changed the lives of people for decades, she said. “The institutions are a combination of community and place, the same audacious dream put Holly Springs on the map of mighty excellence in education,” Sawyer said.

"When a flashlight grows dim or quits working, you don't throw it away. You change the batteries. When a person messes up and finds themselves in a dark place, do you cast them aside? Of course not. You help them change their batteries! Some need AA ... attention and affection. Some need AAA ... attention, affection, and acceptance. Some need C ... compassion. Some need D ... direction. And if they still don't seem to shine ... simply sit with them quietly and share your light."

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The Christian Index • November 2022

--Unknown

Connectional Interests

CME-Affiliated Schools

Continued on next page November 2022 • The Christian Index

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Submissions Continued from previous page I pray you find these suggestions helpful as you join the journey to Be Bold: Face Now, Embrace Next, and See New, changing the world with the power of the Holy Spirit.

Sample goals for accountability 1.

Within the next 30 days, we will create an intergenerational team to complete the SWOT analysis for

our church ministry development.

2.

Within the next 60 days we will have identified what we will start doing, stop doing, and continue

doing to meet the needs of our local church and community.

3.

By the end of 2022, we will implement one outreach ministry to address the needs of persons

impacted by a climate crisis in our community.

4.

By the summer of 2023, we will reorganize our homeless ministry to include free grooming services

weekly .

Hines Memorial Conducts One-Day Vacation Bible School Submitted by Sis. Shirley Vaughn Member, Board of Christian Education and Formation

The Board of Christian Education and Formation of Hines Memorial CME Church planned and executed a successful one day VBS on September 27, 2022, in the Family Life Center. The theme: “I’ve got this with Jesus,” and the primary scripture Philippians 4:13 NLT, “For I can do everything through Christ, who gives me strength,” was evident throughout the day as the 14 children, 8 youth, and 21 adults enthusiastically participated in Bible study, arts and craft, and music.

The presence of visitors and former members added to the day, leaving everyone wanting another day of fellowship and fun. The Hines Memorial village is small but committed to being proactive in reclaiming our young people and former members, and welcoming visitors as we strive to be a light in the community. COVID guidelines were followed as we have not completely returned to our new normal.

The 10 am – 1 pm event ended with a representative from each class giving a summary of the lesson. A sensational boxed lunch was provided to all participants, and individual certificates were issued as VBS 2022-2023 came to a close. The encouraging remarks from attendees, and their willingness to participate in future activities offers the opportunity for the BCEF to plan on going events for all levels of our membership.

The Rev. Dr. Ore L. Spragin serves as pastor at Hines Memorial in Albany, Georgia. Mrs. Annie Adams is the Director of the BCEF, and Dr. Sheryl Venable serves as Superintendent of Sunday School.

The Vacation Bible School adult class.

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The Christian Index • November 2022

The Vacation Bible School youth class.

November 2-6 - Tenth Episcopal District, Liberia Region Annual Conference; Visitation to churches and Preconference Meeting (Wed-Fri), Conference session (Sat-Sun) November 10-11 - Oklahoma Region Reporting Meeting; Host - Holsey Chapel CME; Tulsa, OK November 12 - Eighth Episcopal District Fall Accounting Meeting; St. James CME Church, Tyler, TX; Hybrid – in person and by Zoom November 9-13 - Ghana/Togo 2022 Annual Conference; Visitations & Pre-conference meeting (Wed-Fri), Conference session (Sat-Sun) November 19 - Alabama Regions Fall Accounting Meeting December 2-3 - Sixth Episcopal District Winter Gathering December 3 - Florida Region Fall Accounting Meeting December 16-17 - 152nd CME Church Anniversary December 25 - Christmas Day and Connectional Student Recognition Day January 9-12, 2023 - Annual CME Pastors’ Conference and Phillips’ School of Theology Founders Celebration via Zoom January 19-22, 2023 - Tenth Episcopal District, Western and Southern Regions Annual Conferences; CME Church Ikot Osungtuk Ukam, Akwa Ibom State January 25, 2023 - Tenth Episcopal District, Breeding Montgomery Bible College Board Meeting; College Campus, Ifuho, Ikot Ekpene, Akwa Ibom State January 27-29, 2023 - Tenth Episcopal District, East Mainland & Calabar/Akamkpa Regions Annual Conferences, Bishop Marshall Gilmore Cathedral, Uyo, Akwa Ibom State January 29, 2023 - Missionary Emphasis Day January 29 - February 5, 2023 - Connectional Youth and Young Adult Week February 3-5, 2023 - Eleventh Episcopal District, Goma City Region Annual Conference, D.R. Congo February 3-5, 2023 - Lagos & Southwest Regions Annual Conferences; Lagos State territory February 5, 2023 - Connectional Scout Sunday February 10-12, 2023 - Bukavu/South/Kivu Region Annual Conference, D.R Congo February 17-19, 2023 - Kitchanga/Masasi Region Annual Conference, D.R Congo November 2022 • The Christian Index

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Obituaries

Joining the Great Cloud

Doctorate of Humanities from New Foundation Theological Seminary in Terry. In December 2015, Sister Polk served as one of four 100-plus-year-olds who served as grand marshals for the Terry Annual Christmas Parade.

Sister Polk was honored with yearly birthday celebrations that recognized her love and longevity of life. She has received special commendations from local, state and congressional leaders as well as recognition from her family and friends. Sister Polk was elated that individuals from all walks of life took the time to recognize her. This was due to her being the humble and Spirit-filled woman that she was.

Sister Polk's parents instilled in her the value of hard work, and that strong work ethic became a part of her life. She and her husband once made a living as migrant workers, traveling to various states securing and working a myriad of jobs. Sister Polk and her husband would also employ others so that they could care for their families as well.

Sister Polk was employed for over thirty years with the Sulser family, helping to raise their children and grandchildren. Floyd Sulser, Jr.'s praise of her went beyond her being just an employee, and in his own words stated, "She was the most devoted and loyal friend you could find.'' He also described her as "a loving and thoughtful person who lived life with others on her mind."

A community and civic-minded individual, Sister Polk registered to vote on Lynch Street as soon as the opportunity came and never missed a time voting. She often stated, "People need to realize the importance of not only registering to vote but actually voting." One of the highlights of her life was being able to vote in 2008 for the first African American President, Barack Obama. He would never forget her commitment to the importance of voting and presented her with a special commendation upon her 100th birthday celebration. Yes, she also voted to elect the first African American Vice-President, Kamala Harris.

Sister Polk was blessed to live for 110 years.

When anyone inquired about her life, she would humbly tell them, "My life has had its ups and downs. We are not a perfect people; we are subject to mistakes, but you don't let the bad outweigh the good.

If you are going to make it in this life you will have to let God do the leading and you follow. Life has not been easy, but don't give up. Someone asked me one 40

The Christian Index • November 2022

day, 'don't you ever get tired?'" She responded, "Yeah, but I don't let that stop me, because the race is not given to the swift nor the strong, but to the one who endures until the end."

After a fruitful and well-spent life, Sister Eula Viola Brown-Polk transitioned into God's heavenly care on Tuesday, September 27, 2022.

Sister Polk was predeceased by her parents; her son, Willie James Coleman; sisters, Edna BrownStevens, Katie Brown-Bozeman, Marie (Mariah) Brown-Wade, Anna Bell Brown-Brooke, Juanita Brown-Washington, Richie Lee Brown-Williams, Nona Mae Brown-Bozeman; and brother, Leroy Brown, who passed at the age of four.

Her rich legacy and loving memories will be cherished by her son, Moses Lee (Helen) Herk, Jr.; daughter-in-law, Bessie Eva Coleman; grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great-great grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins, friends, neighbors, her CME family, a team of dedicated caregivers, and a devoted and loving niece, Dollie Stevens-Gathings.

"Strategies for setting personal, educational and professional goals and planning and executing tasks to achieve your goals is provided in detail in this book."

ANNOUNCING BOLD MONEY MATTERS! A FINANCIAL LITERACY AND EMPOWERMENT PROGRAM FOR CME CLERGY!

PRESS RELEASE We are overjoyed to announce the CME Church is the recipient of a 4-year ($1 million) grant from the Lilly Endowment Foundation. The grant will fund a program to provide a financial literacy educational series to CME Clergy, as well as support a fund to provide direct aid to program participants. In keeping with the quadrennial theme, we are tagging this program as “BOLD Money Matters”!

The program officially began September 1st with a targeted launch of the actual educational series in early 2023. During the first months of our start up, we will launch our website, finalize our timeline and put other details in place. The anticipated dates for the Spring 2023 session are Tuesdays between February 7th and March 28th at 8 pm Eastern. The series are free for CME Clergy, but registration will be required. Registration will be open in late fall 2022.

The program has multiple phases: 1. In early 2023, we will begin the 8-session class series. These sessions will be taught live via an online platform. We will offer the 8- session series two times per year for the duration of the grant period.

2. In 2023, we will launch the "Ministerial Excellence Fund" to provide emergency assistance for certain debts or unexpected expenses and will not have to be paid back.

Applicants for funds must complete the class series prior to applying as well as meet other eligibility criteria. The criteria and an online application will be posted on the website after the first series of classes begin.

3. By mid-2024, we plan to add a self-guided online teaching module with advanced courses in finances, financial literacy, financial planning.

4. In 2025-2026, we will add a final dimension to the program, which would be education and consultation for local church leaders and their pastor on topics like "creating a budget", "planning a capital/building fund campaign", "levering property assets".

Watch for updates on our upcoming website at www.thecmechurch.org/boldmoneymatters.

Bishop Teresa Jefferson-Snorton, Grant Administrator Dr. Tyrone T. Davis, Program Coordinator and Budget Officer Mrs. CheRhonda Greenlee, Program Assistant BoldMoneyMatters@thecmechurch.org November 2022 • The Christian Index

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