The Christian Index - October 2024

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

Connectional CPE Graduating Class, Spring 2024

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

Volume 157, Number 10

October 2024

Connectional Interests Episcopacy 4 Bishop Marvin Thomas, COB Chair 5 CME Calendar of Events 7 Dept. of Finance/Investment 8 Dept. of Christian Education/Formation 16 Dept. of Lay Ministries 18 Committee on Disaster Relief 19 Connectional CPE Program 20 CME-Affiliated Schools

Lane Among White House Scholars 21

Miles to Acquire BSC Campus 22

Miles' Economic Impact 24 Submissions WilGo Walkers 25 Retirement of a Church Builder 26 Faith CME Makes Difference in Desert 29 2024-2025 Liturgical Calendar 30 Motivated to Serve at Mt. Pilgrim, Denton 32 Children/Youth 35 Ecumenical ITC Welcomes Rev. Dr. Herman Mason 36 Healthy Churches 2030 39 Connectional Directory 43

Cover: Connectional CPE Class of Spring 2024. See story on page 20.

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

Submitted to the Publisher: September 30, 2024

Editorial

Narcissistic Pride (Reprint of editorial from the March 2017 issue of The Christian Index)

Narcissists are those who love themselves so much that they cannot see their own faults and believe the world revolves around them. They believe they are God's gift to humanity and that they are the solution to every problem. Narcissists cannot see the beauty in others for looking at themselves, and rather than attempts at building relationships and bridging gaps, they build barriers and walls.

On this past January 20, 2017, I joined many of you in watching the recent inauguration of Donald Trump as the 45th President of the United States. Much commentary was given on that day, and there was much on which to comment. Many media productions focused on the American heritage of the peaceful transfer of power from one duly elected official to the next. However, like many of you, I heard a few things that gave me reason to pause and reflect on the greater heritage that is ours as a world nation and as a people of the Most High God. In the opening remarks of his inaugural address, President Trump said we are now "joined in a great national effort to rebuild our country and restore its promise for all of our people. Together, we will determine the course of America, and the world, for many, many years to come." Touting a new day of the rule of the people, he condemned those within the nation's capital and other politicians as having prospered themselves while "the people did not share in that wealth". "Americans want great schools for their children, safe neighborhoods for their families, and good jobs for themselves. These are just and reasonable demands of righteous people and a righteous public."

Crime and drugs and gangs were said to be the causes of the failure of many communities to thrive, but Trump said, "This stops right now ... We are one nation, and their pain is our Rev. Dr. Ore L. Spragin, Jr., pain, their dreams are our Editor dreams, and their success will be our success. We share one heart, one home, and one glorious destiny ... We have defended other nations' borders while refusing to defend our own." He talked much about a past that will be no more because of a distinct break with that past, a break that begins with and is contiguous with his presidency. "I will never, ever let you down," he boasted, as he painted a picture of a rosy, robust, thriving future. Putting America first, he vowed to yet continue in partnership with old alliances and to form new ones in order to achieve the stated goals of his presidency.

A line of total allegiance was drawn in the sand between patriotism and international inclusivism. Per President Trump, American patriotism will stamp out prejudice from among us (but this prejudice is limited to that which is internal to America, and does not extend beyond our national borders). Quoting Psalm 133:1, he commented that pursuing unity, in spite of our many disagreements, our nation will be totally unstoppable. We are protected by our great military, our police forces, and "most importantly, by God." "A new national pride ... will heal our divisions." To be a patriot is today's call, Continued on next page

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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Editorial Continued from previous page unity is the mantra of the new religion of patriotism, and Donald Trump is its leader. Following him, we and this nation cannot help but to be great and to prosper in that greatness. And if this administration has its way, Christian leaders will be set free from the chains of government scrutiny to the freedom to announce and promote the new ideology from the pulpit.

Looking forward to the scene of the crucifixion, we hear Jesus saying, "Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do." (Luke 23:34a, KJV) These words remind us that we sin mostly out of ignorance, not even knowing what we think we know.

Humility seemed lacking in this speech; a reminder of what can be an ugly national pride, such as has been seen in fascist regimes, seemed to be lurking somewhere in the rear.

The Christian season of Lent reminds us of the need to humble ourselves before our God and within ourselves. And such humility, that comes only from being aware of our own transgressions and bent to sinning, leads us to confess our weaknesses and failures to live up to the expectations of God to be vessels of his glory, not of our own glory. Philippians 2:5-9 calls the Christian to mind the example seen in the great worthiness, yet great humility, of Christ. We fall short of the glory that God has even for us, and so we glory not in our achievements, but rather in our infirmities, that Christ may be glorified in us through them.

It is God who has empowered and placed our nations and governments, and who commands that we respect our political leaders in their authority.

Our nation with its leaders deserve our respect and our civil service, but not our worship. Let us then take pride, yes, in being Americans, but let us not be so proud as to disown the love of God by excluding others, or by lifting up so-called patriotism as a thing to be religiously claimed. If this life and this country is the sum total of our hope and being, we are indeed most miserable, though we may not know or admit it.

We are natural citizens of this land, but Jesus is Lord, and we are ministers of the kingdom of God. We cannot understand those who are other than us, minister to them expressing the love of God, and reach persons for Christ while standing distant from them.

Further, in response to our own Social Creed, we must not only attempt to fix the broken places where 4

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others are, we must put Christian effort into making ways for them to exit to better places, even our places.

Otherwise we simply build internal walls of separation in the name of a false unity. Ultimately, no one person can or should be lifted up as the righter of all that is wrong - that is, none but Christ our Lord. His ideas and plans, alone, are flawless and good.

Narcissistic pride in earthly, human endeavors is not confined to the political arena. We can have a sense of religious pride concerning our denominations, and even Christianity, to the point of excluding and denigrating those who are not like us or who do not agree with us theologically. Yet, this is antithetical to the name, cause, and ministry of Christ.

During this season of Lent, there is much to repent of - sins of commission, as well as sins of omission; sins we have committed knowingly and willfully, and those we have been brought to know after the fact. In all these things we need the mercy of God, not the pride of life. We have not offended some ethereal deity or some distant, unknowable Creator.

No. We ... all of us in our own way ... have offended and sinned against the God in whose presence our soul has not taken delight; the God who we have not called when we have been afflicted; the One who is always our friend and the lover of our soul, but whose loving, life-giving advances we have spurned; the God who is personal, knowable, emotive, inviting, and responsive.

Sin condemns us to an earned death, "But the more we see our sinfulness, the more we see God’s abounding grace forgiving us." Romans 5:20b (TLB) May we and our leaders of every sort be made aware of and repent of narcissistic pride.

I am grateful to God that I am a citizen of this land, and I respect the office of President of the United States of America, but I know beyond any doubt that only Jesus can save, and my religion is the Christianity that teaches faith in the person and power of Christ the Son of God. I thank God that His mercy is always personally available, always perfectly suitable for whatever the case may be, and always more than abundantly adequate for the sin, no matter how narcissistically proud the sinner may be.

Editor's Note: The full transcript of Donald Trump's 2017 inaugural speech may be found here: https://www.politico.com/ story/2017/01/full-text-donald-trump-inauguration-speechtranscript-233907. A video of the speech may be viewed here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pHtNOoN5rhk.

Connectional Interests

Episcopacy

Bishop Marvin Frank Thomas, Sr. Inducted Chair of the College of Bishops Submitted by Rev. Dr. Ore L. Spragin, Jr. Editor, The Christian Index Photo Credits: CME CIT

On September 3, 2024, day two of the CME General Connectional Board, Bishop Marvin Frank Thomas, Sr. was inducted for the second time as Chair of the College of Bishops of the Christian Methodist Episcopal Church. Senior Bishop Lawrence L. Reddick III presented Bishop Thomas as one who respects the past but who is not "married to it" but is instead "forward-thinking." The act of investiture symbolized by the gift of the gavel was performed by Bishop Thomas L. Brown of the Sixth Episcopal District.

Bishop Thomas' message, based on Bishop Thomas receives the Chair's gavel from one of his colleagues, Luke 7:11-17, with emphasis on verse 16, was Bishop Thomas L. Brown, who presides over the Sixth Episcopal District. titled, "When God Visits His People." Bishop Thomas said the story is more than about a funeral and a restoration of life. He pointed out there are two crowds: one following Jesus and one following the dead boy's body to the cemetery. Those who follow Jesus are full of life; the others are lifeless and follow death "to the cemetery of human experience ... Which crowd are you following?"

Secondly, none of the characters are given names which indicates the universality of human suffering.

But this story reminds us that God has a history of visiting his people to both punish and bless in the midst of their suffering: in the Old Testament, through the prophets; in the New Testament, in the persons of Jesus and the Holy Spirit; in the church, through the word and the sacraments. "[Have you encountered God in the vision of God provided through these means?]" For us today, the text means that God has come to see about us; that God cares about us, "has compassion for the living;" and that "a change is gonna come." God visits through songs, experiences, and other, various mysterious means, including through visits from other people. "Have you had occasions in your life when Good came to see about you?"

Bishop Thomas was elected the 62nd bishop of the CME Church in 2014 and presently presides over the First Episcopal District, comprised of the Church's work in the States of Arkansas and Tennessee, which includes a CME-founded and -related school, Lane College, located in Jackson, Tennessee, and several housing developments.

He succeeds Bishop Teresa Snorton who is the Ecumenical Representative and Development Officer, and endorsing agent, for the CME Church. The one-year position does not come with any additional authority as a bishop but is a position of leadership rotated among the active bishops within the College. It carries the responsibilities of calling Bishop Thomas gives the acceptance message while Senior the College to convene and presiding as required and Bishop Lawrence L. Reddick III (Eighth Episcopal District) appropriate. looks on.

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Episcopacy

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

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October 5, 2024 - East Tennessee Region - Southeast District Fall Reporting Meeting; Mattie E. Coleman CME Church, Knoxville TN October 12, 2024 - East Tennessee Region - Southwest District Fall Reporting Meeting; Mt. Pleasant CME Church, Milan TN October 17-20, 2024 - Zimbabwe Region Annual Conference, Harare November 2, 2024 - West Tennessee Region - Northwest District Fall Reporting Meeting; Coleman Chapel, Memphis TN November 9, 2024 - West Tennessee Region - Northeast District Fall Reporting Meeting; Pillow Street CME Church, Memphis TN November 15-17, 2024 - DR Congo Region Annual Conference, Goma City December 12-15, 2024 - South Africa Region Annual Conference (Tentative) December 14 - Sixth Episcopal District Winter Reporting Meeting; Anderson Conference Center, Macon GA March 7-8, 2025 - First Episcopal District Spring Gathering 2025; Phillips Temple CME Church, 1321 Moore Road, Chattanooga TN March 20-23, 2025 - Uganda Region Annual Conference, Busia June 25-27, 2025 - Arkansas Region Annual Conference; Miles Chapel CME Church, Texarkana AR July 9-11, 2025 - East Tennessee Region Annual Conference; St. Luke CME Church, Nashville TN July 23-25, 2025 - West Tennessee Region Annual Conference; Mt. Olive Cathedral, Memphis TN

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

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Department of Finance and Investment

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Department of Finance and Investment

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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The Christian Index • October 2024

Department of Finance and Investment

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Department of Finance and Investment

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Department of Finance and Investment

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Department of Finance and Investment

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

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

Email to: ChristianIndex@thecmechurch.org October 2024 • The Christian Index

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Department of Finance and Investment

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Department of Finance and Investment

REGISTRATION LINK

https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/ tZwudOqurjwtGN1pQ1gtpBzFTeeHrziQYDx0#/registration

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Department of Christian Education/Formation

“PUT ON THE ARMOR OF GOD” “FOR WE ARE HIS CHRISTIAN ARMY!” Diana Winton The Armor of God: Ephesians 6:10-18; “Finally be strong in the Lord and in His mighty power. Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. Therefore, put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything to stand. Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breast plate of righteousness in place, and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. In additional to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. And 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.” (NIV) We are God’s Servants on the Battlefield for our Lord!

Paul, who wrote the book of Ephesians, is not only telling us to stand firm in Christ Jesus, but he’s encouraging and educating us as believers. Paul reminds us that our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers and powers of this dark and cruel world. God wants us to be strong and know that Satan has already been defeated and disarmed by God. While Satan is free to try and tempt and harass Christians, he has no direct authority over them, because Jesus died at the Cross for you and me. For the battle was already won at the Cross!

The story is that Paul began to write and compare the Christian life to a battle, while he was in prison. He noticed that soldiers wore battle attire and equipment to protect themselves when in battle, such as a helmet to protect their head, a chest shield, a belt buckled for the waist, special shoes, and sandals, to protect their feet, and the purpose of their armor was meant to protect them from harm and danger.

We are God’s army, Christian believers, and servants on the battlefield for our Lord. And God then and God now is fighting our battles because Satan then and Satan now is still trying to destroy the body of Christ. That is why we need to put on God’s full armor, so when evil and challenges comes our way, we may be able to stand our ground, and stand firm. We must be strong in the Lord and in his great power.

We must stand strong with the belt of truth tied around your waist, and the breast plate of righteousness in place, with our feet fitted with the readiness and good news from the gospel of peace to help you stand strong. We must use the shield of faith which can stop the evil one from interfering in our life. And accept God’s salvation as your helmet and take the sword of the spirit which is the word of God. Yet, how can we fight the enemy if we don’t know the word of God? We must read, study, and meditate on God’s word, and share the word with others, and ask the Holy Spirit to come in and give us understanding in our reading and studying. There is so much in the Bible to read, study, learn, share, teach, and to apply.

2 Timothy 2:15 says to study to show thyself approved. You have to know what God is calling you to do.

Through God’s word, God’s promises, and God’s love we learn how to fight our battles. Many Christians are 16

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Department of Christian Education/Formation

spiritually starved and weak because they ignore the spiritual food that God has provided in the Bible. The Bible is not an option, it is a necessity, and it teaches us how to serve him better, how to work and serve others through his teachings, that protects us from danger.

The word gives us power and the weapons we need to fight the enemy. For the battle is not yours, it’s the Lord's.

And our spiritual armor will protect us from spiritual attacks. The devil uses people to persecute you, distract you, discourage you, put you down, upset you, lie on you, steal and cheat on you. Evil is everywhere, even in our church.

You see, in our spiritual warfare, we can’t see the enemy, but God can. God sees things coming, before you do, and God already has his angels there to protect you.

God wants you to be an overcomer. And every day you get up you must put on the whole armor of God and pray in thanksgiving. Prayer is the key. We must always pray in the spirit, on all occasions, with all kinds of prayers and requests, asking for all that we need through the guidance of the Holy Spirit. Philippians 4:13…. “I can do all things through Christ which strengthens me.”

We are servants of the most high God; we are servants on the battlefield for our Lord, cleansed by the blood of the lamb.

Paul calls on us to stand firm in the Lord, be steadfast, put on the armor of God, for we are his Christian army!

(From "The Practitioner, Vol.7, Spring 2024 ed., No. 3." A publication of the General Department of Christian Education and Formation of the Christian Methodist Episcopal Church. Used by permission.)

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Department of Lay Ministries

Here is the link to complete the information for CME's that are elected officials. https://forms.gle/YNGrfW3YX89dni5q8 18

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Committee on Disaster Relief

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Connectional CPE Program

Connectional CPE Class Graduates Submitted by Rev. Dr. Ore L. Spragin, Jr. Editor, The Christian Index

The Connectional Clinical Pastoral Education (CCPE) Class of Spring 2024 graduated at 5:00 p.m. on September 3, 2024, during the time of the 2024 CME Church General Connectional Board and Unity Summit in Dallas, Texas. Several members of the class participated in leading the ceremony, which included the usual but significant sharing of testimonies by several students about their experiences in the program. The selected three students told of meaningful personal, spiritual, and interpersonal relational growth attained and discovered during and at the end of the process. All of the students said their ministries were positively impacted by the studies and interactions they had been afforded. Some will be continuing their work in parish ministry; some are going on to further academic studies in pastoral care; but all are engaged in ministry of some kind.

Graduates came from six episcopal districts and are as follows: Susan Alford (2nd), Thomas Benjamin (9th), Sylvia L. Browning (6th), Jeffrey L. Daniels (7th), Tiffany Davis-Harris (4th), Derrell Durley (9th), Anthony Gary (5th), Sandra Givens-Goff (9th), Marshall Goff (9th), Deon Howard (5th), S. Dewayne Martin (7th), Lisa Reid (7th), Christopher Ruff (9th), William Treadwell (5th), and Elton Wells (4th).

Bishop Teresa Snorton serves as CPE Coordinator and is Chair of the CME Board of Chaplains. Bishop Thomas L. Brown serves as Vice Chair. Rev. Dr. Brenda Wallace, is a certified educator with the ACPE and is the lead faculty person for the program. Additional faculty and facilitators are Rev. Dr. Lavonia McIntyre, Rev. Ermanno Willis, and Rev. Myisha Handy.

Bishop Snorton announced the plan to initiate episcopal district CPE groups in the Fall of 2025 in order to expand the reach of CCPE, to serve those around the Connection who need to fulfill the one-year of CPE required for admission into full connection, and to accommodate the growing number of persons otherwise interested in the program. Rev. Dr. Cheryl Goliday, a board-certified chaplain, and Rev. Myisha Phillips Stapleton will be brought onboard to help pilot that initiative in the 4th and 2nd Episcopal Districts, respectively.

The application deadline for the Spring 2025 group is November 1, 2024. Group slots fill up quickly. Information about applying for the program may be found in the back of this issue on page 41. You may also go to the CME Church website and put the word "chaplains" in the search bar. You will be directed to the application page.

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CME-Affiliated Schools

Excerpted from: https://www.lanecollege.edu/news/lane-students-named-among-white-house-scholars. Accessed 9-28-2024.

LANE STUDENTS NAMED AMONG WHITE HOUSE SCHOLARS The White House Initiative on Advancing Educational Equity, Excellence, and Economic Opportunity through historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) is proud to announce the 2024 cohort of HBCU Scholars, marking the 10th anniversary of this transformative program. This year, 110 outstanding students from 77 HBCUs across the nation have been selected for their exceptional academic achievements, leadership potential, and dedication to their communities.

“For 10 years, the HBCU Scholars program has celebrated the exceptional academic talent and achievements of students at our Historically Black Colleges and Universities – a recognition that reflects the Biden-Harris Administration’s determination to fight for our nation’s HBCUs and their immense contributions to excellence and diversity in higher education,” said U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona. “This year’s 110 outstanding students exemplify Black excellence – and fill us with hope for the promise of tomorrow. We couldn’t be prouder to support them on their journey.”

Since its inception in 2014, the HBCU Scholars program has been committed to recognizing and supporting the brightest and service-oriented minds from HBCUs. Over the past decade, the program has empowered over 500 students, providing them with invaluable opportunities for personal and professional growth, mentorship, and networking.

Currently representing 23 states and 11 countries, this group of HBCU Scholars were selected from a competitive pool of over 350 applicants. The 2024 cohort includes students from a diverse array of disciplines, including science, technology, engineering, math, humanities, social sciences, and the arts. These scholars have demonstrated not only academic excellence but also a strong commitment to service and leadership in their communities. Throughout the year, the HBCU Scholars will engage in a series of workshops, leadership development programs, and networking events designed to enhance their skills and expand their horizons.

Additionally, they will have the opportunity to connect with industry leaders, policymakers, and alumni of the program, further enriching their educational experience. Aligned with the U.S. Department of Education’s mission to Raise the Bar, students in this program are encouraged to lift their communities, unite others around student success, work to strengthen our democracy, and grow our economy.

A critical component of the HBCU Scholar Program is a partnership with NASA to foster innovation and opportunity for the cohorts.

[The Lane College selected Scholars and their hometowns are Laila Cooper (Chicago, Illinois) and Keith Jordan, Jr. (Memphis, Tennessee). Congratulations on being selected as White House HBCU Scholars!!]

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CME-Affiliated Schools

From: https://www.miles.edu/news/miles-college-takes-next-step-acquire-birmingham-southern-campus. Accessed 9-28-2024.

Miles College Takes Next Step to Acquire Birmingham Southern Campus Written by Mya Jolly Fairfield, AL (September 25, 2024) — Miles College and Birmingham-Southern College have signed a purchase agreement for BSC’s 192-acre campus.

Both Boards of Trustees have unanimously voted to enter into a purchase agreement, following a letter of intent submitted

by Miles shortly after BSC ceased normal operations on May 31, 2024.

The purchase will scale the impact of Miles, an HBCU based in Fairfield that generates nearly $70 million in total economic impact for its local and regional economies and creates hundreds of direct and indirect jobs, according to the 2024 HBCU Economic Impact Report from the United Negro College Fund. The annual report highlights the substantial contributions that HBCUs make to students, local communities and the nation.

“It is clear that institutions like Miles College continue to serve as powerful engines of economic growth and opportunity,” said Miles College President Bobbie Knight. “For generations, Miles College has been a cornerstone of progress in our community. This opportunity is a significant next step in our vision to lift our college, campus, and community.”

“We are very pleased to take this next step with Miles College,” said President Daniel B. Coleman. “Our hope has been to find a buyer whose mission paralleled BSC’s mission of educating young people for lives of service and significance, and whose presence on the Hilltop would also benefit the surrounding communities who have been such good neighbors to BSC for more than 100 years.

“With its roots in the Methodist tradition of service and its commitment to preparing young people for lives of leadership, Miles College fits that description. We will continue to work diligently with President Bobbie Knight and her team to ensure a smooth pathway to closing the sale.”

The acquisition of Birmingham Southern’s campus will allow academic programs, research, and innovation to thrive in a collaborative environment with local and global partnerships. The National Science Foundation recently announced that Miles will lead a $3M collaborative grant with Howard University, Tennessee State University, Morgan State University and Winston Salem University. Miles also launched the 2150 Center for Innovation, Commercialization & Growth this week with two cohorts of local and national entrepreneurs and corporate partners.

Knight and Coleman will work together to position the legacy of Birmingham Southern and the future of Miles College.

“The purchase agreement is for the physical property – acreage and buildings – but not the College itself,” Coleman said.

“BSC will continue to operate as a corporate entity through the remainder of the wind-down, which includes wrapping up a range of business matters.”

President Bobbie Knight added, “we are carefully and thoughtfully constructing and curating our next chapter to provide tools and resources for our students to have the highest possible opportunity to succeed. While at the same time, we are positioning our professors and stakeholders to drive research and innovation that will lead to transformative products and services. We have secured partners to join us in creating a consortium for Centers of Excellence and we are pursuing partnerships including with the City of Birmingham to frame the best possible outcomes for all involved.”

Once the sale is complete, BSC will work with the Alabama Attorney General’s office to develop a proposed plan for the College endowment and will then seek court approval of that plan as is required by state law. “We expect that process will take many months or even years to complete, and we will communicate with our endowment contacts once we know more,” Coleman said.

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CME-Affiliated Schools

Founded through the merger of two Methodist colleges in 1918, Birmingham-Southern College ceased normal operations in May following an 18-month effort to obtain bridge funding from a $30 million state loan program conceived and enacted to save the 168-year-old, nationally ranked liberal arts institution.

Miles College, a private historically black college in Fairfield, Alabama was founded in 1898, by the Christian Methodist Episcopal Church (CME Church). It has a rich history of social and economic change, including its role in the Civil Rights Movement and its graduates who have made history and blazed a trail of national prominence in civil rights and social justice, law, medicine, business, and education.

Neither BSC nor Miles will have further comments on the details of the agreement. The BSC campus will remain closed to all visitors until further notice. ### About Miles College: Founded in 1898 Miles College is located in Fairfield, Alabama. We are a private, liberal arts, Historically Black College with roots in the Christian Methodist Episcopal Church. The College, through dedicated faculty, cultivates students to seek knowledge that leads to intellectual and civic empowerment. Students are transformed through rigorous study, scholarly inquiry, and spiritual awareness, thereby enabling graduates to become responsible citizens who help shape the global society. Miles College is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).

October 2024 • The Christian Index

23

Connectional Interests

CME-Affiliated Schools

From: https://www.miles.edu/news/uncf-announces-release-2024-hbcu-economic-impact-report-highlighting-critical-contributions.

Accessed 9-28-2024.

UNCF Announces the Release of the 2024 HBCU Economic Impact Report, Highlighting the Critical Contributions of Miles College Written by Mya Jolly

Miles College, Fairfield, Alabama (Sept. 18, 2024) — This month, UNCF (United Negro College Fund), the nation’s largest and most effective minority education organization, proudly unveiled its 2024 HBCU Economic Impact Report. The report, Transforming Futures: The Economic Engine of HBCUs, commissioned by UNCF’s Frederick D. Patterson Research Institute (FDPRI), is a comprehensive, data-driven analysis highlighting the substantial contributions that historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) make to their students, local communities and the nation. Miles College is a UNCF-member institution, and its impact on the nation’s economy is significant.

HBCUs have long been pillars of educational excellence and economic engines, driving prosperity across the nation. Despite these contributions, chronic underfunding threatens their ability to maintain this high level of impact. Transforming Futures: The Economic Engines of HBCUs underscores the urgent need for equitable and sustainable funding to ensure HBCUs can continue their vital role in promoting social mobility and economic growth and calls on the public to advocate for these essential institutions.

Miles College powers the economy of Alabama, including but not limited to: Miles College generates $69.3 Million in total economic impact for its local and regional economies.

Miles College generates 641 jobs for its local and regional economies. Of this total, 286 are on-campus jobs and 355 are off-campus jobs.

A Miles College graduate working full-time throughout his or her working life can expect to earn$1,255,978 in additional income due to a college credential.

"As we reflect on the findings of the 2024 HBCU Economic Impact Report, it is clear that institutions like Miles College continue to serve as powerful engines of economic growth and opportunity. For generations, Miles College has been a cornerstone of progress in our community, even during periods of underfunding by state and federal administrations. Yet, through the resilience of our students, faculty, and alumni, we have managed to generate $69.3 million in economic impact and create over 600 jobs across local and regional economies. Our graduates not only uplift themselves but also their families and communities, with the potential to earn over $1.2 million in additional lifetime income. Thank you United Negro College Fund (UNCF) for crafting this report and showcasing our impact.”

– Bobbie Knight, President of Miles College “We are truly thankful for the consistent support of the United Negro College Fund (UNCF), whose unwavering commitment to HBCUs like Miles College has been instrumental in our ability to thrive. We look forward to continued growth and advancement as we work together to create new opportunities for generations to come."

– Dr. Steven E. Hairston, Vice President of Institutional Advancement & Development Miles College

24

The Christian Index • October 2024

Submissions

WilGo Walkers Submitted by Kathy B. Horne

In the early morning hours of Saturday, August 3rd, the inaugural group of WilGo (Wilkinson County-Gordon, GA) Walkers set out for a thirty-minute walk in the Gordon City Park. It was a small but dedicated group that showed up equipped for the task at hand. After a prayer by Pastor William Horne, Jr., the walkers started out at their own pace. Some were meditating, some were singing, some strolling, some fast walking and one broke into a trot periodically. God in true form blessed the day with a steady cool breeze in the 87-degree heat. This was further encouragement for the group.

The WilGo Walkers is a walking club initiated at St. John Christian Methodist Episcopal (CME) Church as a ministry for the Gordon community to improve health one step at a time. The mission is to be a source of encouragement and support as we walk together in faith, fostering fellowship and physical well-being.

The ministry is sponsored by St. John CME Church and the Wilco Elevating Together Health Opportunity Pilot Initiative (WET). It is the hope of the church and WET, the HOP initiative, to make Gordon and Wilkinson County a safe and healthy place where people want to come and live.

The walking club is open to the entire community. Individuals are encouraged to walk at least 5000 steps per day on their own and report their progress to the team leads, Mr. Roderick & Mrs. Theresa Wilson. Those joining the club complete a form and report their initial vital statistics, i.e. blood pressure, blood glucose, and weight. There will be periodic assessments to document progress and each new member receives a tracker to consistently record their daily activity. The group walks collectively in the park on Saturdays. Currently, they have plans to walk in the Macon Labor Day Road Race which is USATF-certified and can serve as a qualifier for next year’s Atlanta Peachtree Road Race.

An African proverb says, “if you want to go fast, go alone, but if you want to go far, go with others.” The WilGo Walkers would love to expand its group and report steady forward progress in the health of the citizens of Gordon and Wilkinson, County. We invite the community to come join us!

"I must have the Saviour with me, For I dare not walk alone; I must feel his presence near me, And his arm around me thrown. Then my soul shall fear no ill; Let him lead me where he will, I will go without a murmur, And his footsteps follow still."

--Fanny J. Crosby October 2024 • The Christian Index

25

Submissions

RETIREMENT OF A CHURCH BUILDER Submitted by Rev. Dr. Timothy R. Green Jr. On July 29-31, 2024, the Christian Methodist Episcopal Church held its 155th Session of the Georgia North Region Annual Conference, Sixth Episcopal District, at Jenkins Memorial CME Church in Hephzibah, Georgia.

Bishop Thomas L. Brown, Sr., who serves as Presiding Bishop, officiated during the Conference. He was assisted by the Rev. Carlton Taylor, host pastor, and the Rev. Dr. Timothy R. Green, Jr., host Presiding Elder.

One of the highlights of each Conference is the recognition of those faithful servants who will retire at the end of the Session. Each is given an opportunity to make remarks should they choose to do so. The Rev. Dr. Green, widely known and acknowledged as a prominent Church builder and devoted pastor, was one of those retirees.

Rev. Dr. Timothy Green, Jr.

Upon his retirement as Presiding Elder, he related to the congregants aspects of his career; reflected on his beliefs and work that led to positive outcomes; and recognized the essential help received from various resources. Key to his evangelical call and charge was the description ascribed to him by many as having “a shepherd’s heart for his congregation and a concern for the needs of the community.” Meeting numerous challenges along the way, he persevered and, led by aspirational visions, saw his dreams become reality.

Early years Rev. Green grew up as the son of a United Methodist Minister and spouse, the late Rev. Timothy R. Green, Sr., and Mrs. Annie Lois Green. He attended elementary school in Dayton, Ohio, followed by Jr. High and High School in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. He later earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in Computer Science at the University of Central Oklahoma, Edmond, Oklahoma. In 1979, he received a Master of Divinity Degree from the Phillips School of Theology, Interdenominational Theological Center, in Atlanta, GA. In 2013, he earned a Doctor of Ministry degree with a focus on New Church Development from Columbia Theological Seminary in Decatur, GA.

Jenkins Memorial CME Church, Hephzibah, Georgia 26

The Christian Index • October 2024

Submissions A Dream and Search for Vibrancy As he reflected on his achievements, Rev. Green sincerely acknowledged the individuals and churches that helped propel and advance his initiatives. According to him, the best way to implement a vibrant Church is to study vibrant Churches. He shared that he evaluated Williams Memorial CME Church (Augusta, GA) that was under the leadership of Rev. Gene R. Dean who was his mentor. He also looked at St. Phillips AME Church (Decatur, GA) pastored by the late Rev. George Moore, and Ben Hill United Methodist Church (Atlanta, GA) served by the late Bishop Cornelius Henderson.

Along with the above churches, he mentioned the impact of others in which he grew up. They, he observed, laid the foundation: Phillips Temple CME Church (Dayton, Ohio); Greater Cleaves Memorial CME Church (Oklahoma City, Oklahoma); and Holsey Temple CME Church (Atlanta, GA) under leadership of the late Rev. Curtiss Long.

A product of these mentors, Rev. Green embraced their teachings, developed a philosophy, and set out to answer the call. He had “a charge to keep.”

In fulfilling his commitment, he emphasized that he fervently advocates and supports the holistic approach to ministry whereby the church embraces the Spiritual, Academic and Physical means to meet the needs of the people.

He noted that the goals geared toward this purpose were realized in the construction at Jenkins Memorial of: The Worship Center (Spiritual), the Enrichment Center (Academic) and the Gym (Physical). Recalling these accomplishments, he reflected on the late Bishop Joseph Coles’ prescient precaution: “A Church must give hope for human despair.”

Regarding his motivation, he stated that while the desire to build and enhance opportunities in the community was crucial, equally important was the longing to present a relevant example to young ministers. In his words, “I wanted the young preachers to have a relevant example of what happens when we dream, step out on faith, [and] work hard toward that God-given goal while expecting a miracle.” Additionally, he emphatically stressed during his career the importance of searching for and securing relevant grants to promote and build ministries.

The proof of his success is evident in the fact that, under his leadership, he took in over 900 members combined while pastoring at Livingston Chapel, Miles Memorial and Jenkins Memorial CME Churches.

Scanning election results (General Conferences 2002-2018)

He proudly recalled that he built and renovated properties and units appraised at over 3.5 million dollars. These included a Church Annex at Miles Memorial CME Church (co-named for him and the late Rev. R. Anthony Lark); a Worship Center, Fellowship Hall, Music Building, an Enrichment Center, and a Gymnasium, as well as Sunday School areas and offices at Jenkins Memorial CME Church. Noteworthy and highlighted among the achievements was the establishment of the 501c3 non-profit Jenkins Community Enrichment Center, Inc., designed to house the Before and After School Program and Summer Camp. The venture garnered over $550,000 in grants and, on average, serves over 50 students daily.

Continued on next page October 2024 • The Christian Index

27

Submissions Continued from previous page Other Accomplishments In addition to his voluminous ministerial duties, Rev. Green worked as fulltime Director of MIS (Management Information Systems) at Paine College for many years beginning in 1980. While there, he developed and implemented the Paine College fiber optic network and assisted in submitting grants and securing donations totaling more than four million dollars. Under his direction, Paine College received the largest donation among UNCF schools for computer network and communications equipment. He also computerized Paine College student elections procedures and consequently gained the expertise to computerize the elections process of the General Conference of the CME Church (2002-2018).

A member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, he espouses and contributes to the noble causes of that organization.

Support System: Vital to Success

Rev. Dr. Timothy R. Green Jr. and Mrs. Beatrice Green at Retirement Ceremony.

A devoted family man and humble man of the people, Rev. Green expressed heartfelt appreciation to his family and to all who have supported and encouraged him and contributed to his progress on his evangelical journey.

He warmly acknowledged his devoted parents, the late Rev. and Mrs. Timothy R. Green, Sr., who inspired, buoyed and encouraged him throughout his life and career. Further tribute was paid to his wife of 50 years, Beatrice F. Green, who always faithfully and stoically stood by his side. He recalled the time during which they considered starting a new church in Hephzibah, GA. Their major hesitation, he recalled, was due to concern over financing college for their children. Fortunately, he testified with pride, they were blessed when God opened doors that enabled all their children to receive full scholarships and grants. The siblings, Dr. Christopher Green, Dr. Tanisha G. Cotton, and Dr. Crystal Ann Green, all earned Ph.D.’s in Engineering. His gratitude also extended to his loving sister, the Rev. Dr. Patricia Ann Green, whose assistance was invaluable over the years.

Described as one with a shepherd’s heart, Rev. Green has frequently stressed with deep and sincere emotion that he has always been and will forever be grateful to God, to the many congregations and staff, fellow clergy, friends, college personnel, city government officials, and others who made the dreams and visions become reality. With this sense of fervor and dedication, his feet will not remain idle, for the ending of one chapter for this industrious champion of the people only feeds the fire for the next Installment.

Church builder, advocate for education and public service, dreamer, visionary, motivator, mentor, family man, shepherd of the people, benefactor, Rev. Green temporarily departs active ministry with a commendable legacy as he pauses to await God’s direction for the future. Always a standard-bearer for God, there is no doubt the final line of the previous chapter surely reads: “to be continued.”

28

The Christian Index • October 2024

The R. Anthony Lark and Timothy R. Green Jr. Community Center Miles Memorial CME Church, Augusta, Georgia

Submissions

Faith CME

Making a difference in the desert Submitted by Rev. Alisa Greene Seventh Episcopal District-Durham District Rev. Clifton E. Harris, Presiding Elder

There is such an overwhelming amount of food desert areas in this country of plenty. Well, Faith CME Church in Charlotte, North Carolina, under the leadership of Rev. Dr. Sandra H. Gripper, is making a difference in one food desert area of Charlotte.

The Food Ministry, under the watchful eye of Sister Roxie Barkley, retired public health nurse, is providing between 100-109 boxes each week, to residents in the Hidden Valley neighborhood and surrounding communities.

In partnership with Second Harvest Food Bank of Metrolina, some area Food Lion stores, area churches and Faith members making non-perishable donations, we are able to feed the needy, greedy, lost and left out.

[Last year], on November 18, 2023, the church food ministry and social concerns ministry partnered with Leah's Hopes and Dreams, a non-profit organization and fed a thanksgiving meal with all the trimmings to over 300 persons in the downtown Charlotte area.

Blankets, hygiene kits, warm socks, hats and gloves were also provided. There were volunteers to assist from Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, college kids and even an eight-year-old from Highland Renaissance Academy serving hot coffee. This took place early in the morning.

The church was also able to bless, on that same day, two transitional homes with food, and thanks to Golden Corral Restaurant there was food at the church to provide to-go-boxed meals for members and visitors the following Sunday after service.

Look at God! At Faith CME, we are seeking to build a better community one person at a time.

"Church folks and God's folks are not the same thing. Church folks go to church. God's folks are the church."

--Okima Havis

October 2024 • The Christian Index

29

30

The Christian Index • October 2024 Exodus 12:1-4, (5-10), 11-14 Isaiah 52:13-53:12

Wednesday of Holy Week

Maundy Thursday

Good Friday

Purple

Purple

Black

April 15, 2025

April 16, 2025

April 17, 2025

April 18, 2025

* Isaiah 25:6-9

Isaiah 50:4-9a

Tuesday of Holy Week

Purple

April 14, 2025

Easter Evening

Isaiah 49:1-7

Monday of Holy Week

Purple

April 13, 2025

White

Isaiah 42:1-9

Liturgy of the Passion

Purple

April 13, 2025

April 20, 2025

Isaiah 50:4-9a

Liturgy of the Palms

Purple

April 6, 2025

April 20, 2025

Isaiah 43:16-21

Fifth Sunday in Lent

White

March 30, 2025

* Acts 10:34-43 or Isaiah 65:17-25

Joshua 5:9-12

Fourth Sunday in Lent

Purple

March 25, 2025

Job 14:1-14 or Lamentations 3:1-9, 19-24

* Isaiah 7:10-14

Annunciation of the Lord

Purple

March 23, 2025

Resurrection of the Lord

Isaiah 55:1-9

Third Sunday in Lent

Purple

March 16, 2025

Holy Saturday

Genesis 15:1-12, 17-18

Second Sunday in Lent

Purple

March 9, 2025

Black

Deuteronomy 26:1-11

First Sunday in Lent

Purple

March 5, 2025

White

Psalm 31:9-16

Joel 2:1-2, 12-17 or Isaiah 58:1-12

Ash Wednesday

Purple

March 2, 2025

April 19, 2025

Psalm 118:1-2, 19-29

Exodus 34:29-35

Transfiguration Sunday

Psalm 84 or Psalm 24:7-10

Psalm 114

Psalm 118:1-2, 14-24

Psalm 31:1-4, 15-16

Psalm 22

Psalm 116:1-2, 12-19

Psalm 70

Psalm 71:1-14

Psalm 36:5-11

Psalm 126

Psalm 32

Psalm 45 or Psalm 40:5-10

Psalm 63:1-8

Psalm 27

Psalm 91:1-2, 9-16

Psalm 51:1-17

Psalm 99

Psalm 37:1-11, 39-40

Psalm 1

Psalm 138

White

February 2, 2025

Psalm 71:1-6

Psalm 19

Genesis 45:3-11, 15

Jeremiah 1:4-10

Fourth Sunday after the Epiphany

Green

January 26, 2025

Jeremiah 17:5-10

Nehemiah 8:1-3, 5-6, 8-10

Third Sunday after the Epiphany

Green

January 19, 2025

Psalm 36:5-10

Psalm 29

Psalm 72:1-7, 10-14

Seventh Sunday after the Epiphany

Isaiah 62:1-5

Second Sunday after the Epiphany

Green

January 12, 2025

Sixth Sunday after the Epiphany

Isaiah 43:1-7

Baptism of the Lord

White

January 6, 2025

Green

Isaiah 60:1-6

Epiphany of the Lord

White

January 5, 2025

Revelation 21:1-6a

Colossians 3:12-17

Hebrews 1:1-4, (5-12)

Titus 3:4-7

Titus 2:11-14

Hebrews 10:5-10

Philippians 4:4-7

Philippians 1:3-11

1 Thessalonians 3:9-13

Epistle Reading

1 Corinthians 5:6b-8

Luke 24:13-49

1 Corinthians 15:19-26 or Acts 10:34John 20:1-18 or Luke 24:1-12 43

Matthew 27:57-66 or John 19:38-42

John 18:1-19:42 1 Peter 4:1-8

John 13:1-17, 31b-35 Hebrews 10:16-25 or Hebrews 4:1416; 5:7-9

John 13:21-32

John 12:20-36

John 12:1-11

Luke 22:14-23:56 or Luke 23:1-49

Luke 19:28-40

John 12:1-8

Luke 15:1-3, 11b-32

Luke 1:26-38

Luke 13:1-9

Luke 13:31-35 or Luke 9:28-36, (37-43a)

Luke 4:1-13

Matthew 6:1-6, 16-21

Luke 9:28-36, (37-43a)

Luke 6:27-38

Luke 6:17-26

Luke 5:1-11

Luke 2:22-40

Luke 4:21-30

Luke 4:14-21

John 2:1-11

Luke 3:15-17, 21-22

Matthew 2:1-12

John 1:(1-9), 10-18

Matthew 25:31-46

Luke 2:41-52

John 1:1-14

Luke 2:(1-7), 8-20

Luke 2:1-14, (15-20)

Luke 1:39-45, (46-55)

Luke 3:7-18

Luke 3:1-6

Luke 21:25-36

Gospel Reading

1 Corinthians 11:23-26

Hebrews 12:1-3

1 Corinthians 1:18-31

Hebrews 9:11-15

Philippians 2:5-11

Philippians 3:4b-14

2 Corinthians 5:16-21

Hebrews 10:4-10

1 Corinthians 10:1-13

Philippians 3:17-4:1

Romans 10:8b-13

2 Corinthians 5:20b-6:10

2 Corinthians 3:12-4:2

1 Corinthians 15:35-38, 42-50

1 Corinthians 15:12-20

1 Corinthians 15:1-11

Hebrews 2:14-18

1 Corinthians 13:1-13

1 Corinthians 12:12-31a

1 Corinthians 12:1-11

Acts 8:14-17

Ephesians 3:1-12

Psalm 147:12-20 or Wisdom of Solomon Ephesians 1:3-14 10:15-21

Green

Jeremiah 31:7-14 or Sirach 24:1-12

Second Sunday after Christmas Day

White

January 1, 2025

Psalm 8

Psalm 148

February 23, 2025

Ecclesiastes 3:1-13

New Year's Day

White

December 29, 2024

Psalm 98

February 16, 2025

1 Samuel 2:18-20, 26

First Sunday after Christmas Day

White

December 25, 2024

Psalm 97

Psalm 96

Malachi 3:1-4

Isaiah 52:7-10

Nativity of the Lord - Proper III

White

December 25, 2024

Isaiah 6:1-8, (9-13)

Isaiah 62:6-12

Nativity of the Lord - Proper II

White

December 24, 2024

Presentation of the Lord

Isaiah 9:2-7

Nativity of the Lord - Proper I

Purple

December 22, 2024

Luke 1:46b-55 or Psalm 80:1-7

Isaiah 12:2-6

Fifth Sunday after the Epiphany

Micah 5:2-5a

Fourth Sunday of Advent

Purple

December 15, 2024

White

Zephaniah 3:14-20

Third Sunday of Advent

Purple

December 8, 2024

Luke 1:68-79

Green

Baruch 5:1-9 or Malachi 3:1-4

Second Sunday of Advent

Purple

Psalm 25:1-10

Psalm Reading

February 9, 2025

Jeremiah 33:14-16

First Sunday of Advent

December 1, 2024

February 2, 2025

Hebrew Reading

Liturgical Date

Color

White

Calendar Date

2024 - 2025 Liturgical Calendar An adaptation of The Revised Common Lectionary, Year C Prepared by the Editor of The Christian Index Rev. Dr. Ore L. Spragin, Jr.

October 2024 • The Christian Index

31

Hebrews 12:18-29 Hebrews 13:1-8, 15-16

Isaiah 58:9b-14; Psalm 103:1-8 Sirach 10:12-18 or Proverbs 25:6-7; Psalm 112

* Acts 9:36-43 * Acts 11:1-18 * Acts 16:9-15 * Acts 1:1-11 * Acts 16:16-34 * Acts 2:1-21 or Genesis 11:1-9 Proverbs 8:1-4, 22-31; Psalm 8 1 Kings 19:1-4, (5-7), 8-15a; Psalm 42 and 43 2 Kings 2:1-2, 6-14; Psalm 77:1-2, 11-20 2 Kings 5:1-14; Psalm 30 Amos 7:7-17; Psalm 82 Amos 8:1-12; Psalm 52 Hosea 1:2-10; Psalm 85 Hosea 11:1-11; Psalm 107:1-9, 43 Isaiah 1:1, 10-20; Psalm 50:1-8, 22-23 Isaiah 5:1-7; Psalm 80:1-2, 8-19 Jeremiah 1:4-10; Psalm 71:1-6 Jeremiah 2:4-13; Psalm 81:1, 10-16

Fourth Sunday of Easter

Fifth Sunday of Easter

Sixth Sunday of Easter

Ascension of the Lord

Seventh Sunday of Easter

Day of Pentecost

Trinity Sunday

Third Sunday of Pentecost

Fourth Sunday of Pentecost

Fifth Sunday of Pentecost

Sixth Sunday of Pentecost

Seventh Sunday of Pentecost

Eighth Sunday of Pentcost

Ninth Sunday of Pentecost

Tenth Sunday of Pentecost

Eleventh Sunday of Pentecost

Twelfth Sunday of Pentecost

First Sunday of Kingdomtide

White

White

White

White

Red

White

Red

Red

White

Red

Red

Red

White

Red

Red

Red

Green

May 11, 2025

May 18, 2025

May 25, 2025

May 29, 2025

June 1, 2025

June 8, 2025

June 15, 2025

June 22, 2025

June 29, 2025

July 6, 2025

July 13, 2025

July 20, 2025

July 27, 2025

August 3, 2025

August 10, 2025

August 17, 2025

August 24, 2025

August 31, 2025

Jeremiah 8:18-9:1; Psalm 79:1-9 Jeremiah 32:1-3a, 6-15; Psalm 91:1-6, 14-16

Lamentations 1:1-6; Lamentations 3:19-26 or Habakkuk 1:1-4; 2:1-4; Psalm 37:1-9 Psalm 137 Jeremiah 29:1, 4-7; Psalm 66:1-12 Jeremiah 31:27-34; Psalm 119:97-104

Fourth Sunday of Kingdomtide

Fifth Sunday of Kingdomtide

Sixth Sunday of Kingdomtide

Seventh Sunday of Kingdomtide

Eighth Sunday of Kingdomtide

Green

Green

White

Green

Green

September 21, 2025

September 28, 2025

October 5, 2025

October 12, 2025

October 19, 2025

Deuteronomy 30:15-20; Psalm 1

September 14, 2025

Job 19:23-27a; Psalm 17:1-9

Daniel 7:1-3, 15-18; Psalm 149 Habakkuk 1:1-4; 2:1-4; Psalm 119:137-144 Haggai 1:15b-2:9; Psalm 145:1-5, 17-21 or Psalm 98 Isaiah 65:17-25; Isaiah 12 Jeremiah 23:1-6; Luke 1:68-79

All Saints Day

Tenth Sunday of Kingdomtide

Eleventh Sunday of Kingdomtide

Twelfth Sunday of Kingdomtide

Reign of Christ - Proper 29 (34)

Thanksgiving Day

White

White

Green

Green

Green

White

November 1, 2025

November 2, 2025

November 9, 2025

November 16, 2025

November 23, 2025

November 27, 2025

Revised Common Lectionary, Copyright © 1992 Consultation on Common Texts. Used by permission. * During Eastertide a reading from Acts is often substituted for the lesson from the Hebrew Bible.

On the Day of Pentecost, if the Old Testament passage from Genesis is chosen for the first reading, the passage from Acts is used as the second reading. * "First" OT readings, read semi-continuously, follow major stories/themes, beginning in Year A with Genesis and ending in Year C with the later prophets. * "Alternate First" OT readings follow the complementary historical tradition of thematically pairing the OT reading with the Gospel reading. ** In a very few instances in the Lectionary, no Psalm reading is offered for reasons relating to the thematic nature of the Day.

Jeremiah 23:1-6; Psalm 46

Malachi 4:1-2a; Psalm 98

Isaiah 1:10-18; Psalm 32:1-7

Joel 2:23-32; Psalm 65

Ninth Sunday of Kingdomtide

Red

October 26, 2025

Deuteronomy 26:1-11; Psalm 100

2 Timothy 3:14-4:5

2 Timothy 2:8-15

2 Timothy 1:1-14

1 Timothy 6:6-19

1 Timothy 2:1-7

1 Timothy 1:12-17

Philemon 1:1-21

Hebrews 11:29-12:2

Philippians 4:4-9

Colossians 1:11-20

2 Thessalonians 3:6-13

2 Thessalonians 2:1-5, 13-17

2 Thessalonians 1:1-4, 11-12

Ephesians 1:11-23

Sirach 35:12-17 or Jeremiah 14:7-10, 192 Timothy 4:6-8, 16-18 22; Psalm 84:1-7

Genesis 32:22-31; Psalm 121

2 Kings 5:1-3, 7-15c; Psalm 111

Amos 6:1a, 4-7; Psalm 146

Amos 8:4-7; Psalm 113

Exodus 32:7-14; Psalm 51:1-10

Jeremiah 18:1-11; Psalm 139:1-6, 13-18 Jeremiah 4:11-12, 22-28; Psalm 14

Second Sunday of Kingdomtide

Third Sunday of Kingdomtide

White

Green

September 7, 2025

Jeremiah 23:23-29; Psalm 82

Hebrews 11:1-3, 8-16

Colossians 3:1-11

Ecclesiastes 1:2, 12-14; 2:18-23; Psalm 49:1-12 Genesis 15:1-6; Psalm 33:12-22

Colossians 2:6-15, (16-19)

Colossians 1:15-28

Colossians 1:1-14

Galatians 6:(1-6), 7-16

Galatians 5:1, 13-25

Galatians 3:23-29

Romans 5:1-5

Romans 8:14-17 or Acts 2:1-21

Revelation 22:12-14, 16-17, 20-21

Ephesians 1:15-23

Revelation 21:10, 22-22:5

Revelation 21:1-6

Revelation 7:9-17

Genesis 18:20-32; Psalm 138

Genesis 18:1-10a; Psalm 15

Deuteronomy 30:9-14; Psalm 25:1-10

Isaiah 66:10-14; Psalm 66:1-9

1 Kings 19:15-16, 19-21; Psalm 16

Isaiah 65:1-9; Psalm 22:19-28

Psalm 104:24-34, 35b

Psalm 97

Psalm 47 or Psalm 93

Psalm 67

Psalm 148

Psalm 23

Revelation 5:11-14

Revelation 1:4-8

White

Psalm 30

* Acts 9:1-6, (7-20)

Third Sunday of Easter

White

May 4, 2025

Psalm 118:14-29 or Psalm 150

* Acts 5:27-32

Second Sunday of Easter

White

April 27, 2025

John 6:25-35

Luke 23:33-43

Luke 21:5-19

Luke 20:27-38

Luke 19:1-10

Luke 6:20-31

Luke 18:9-14

Luke 18:1-8

Luke 17:11-19

Luke 17:5-10

Luke 16:19-31

Luke 16:1-13

Luke 15:1-10

Luke 14:25-33

Luke 14:1, 7-14

Luke 13:10-17

Luke 12:49-56

Luke 12:32-40

Luke 12:13-21

Luke 11:1-13

Luke 10:38-42

Luke 10:25-37

Luke 10:1-11, 16-20

Luke 9:51-62

Luke 8:26-39

John 16:12-15

John 14:8-17, (25-27)

John 17:20-26

Luke 24:44-53

John 14:23-29 or John 5:1-9

John 13:31-35

John 10:22-30

John 21:1-19

John 20:19-31

Submissions 1 Corinthians 12:4-6, NIV "There are different kinds of gifts, but the same Spirit distributes them There are different kinds of service, but the same Lord. There are different kinds of working, but in all of them and in everyone it is the same God at work."

"Motivated to Serve at Mt. Pilgrim CME in Denton Texas"

Submitted and written by Demetria Ennis-Cole Photo Credits: Gloria Glass, Anthony Duncan, and Lonnie Thrower

At Mt. Pilgrim CME, service flows both vertically and horizontally. Service is rendered to God vertically through praise, worship, tithes, and offerings, and the same spirit of service and ministry flows horizontally among members of the congregation and the community. Examples of service and ministry at Mt. Pilgrim include Stewardess Day, Women's Day & Missionaries' Day, the Women's Retreat, participation in the Fort Worth District M2M Kid-N-Fish Day, a Celebration of Graduates, and Vacation Bible School.

Stewardess Day Sis. Valerie Cheatham was the speaker for the service honoring Stewardesses, Friends and Family. She said a stewardess provides service to members of the church in a special way. Stewardesses serve the Table of the Poor, the Table of Ministry, and the Table of the Lord. They also assist the Stewards with the collection of funds. She said Stewardesses wear white as a symbol of God's purity, holiness, and perfection. The uniform symbolizes modesty and the desire to be pure. According to Sis. Cheatham, it is a privilege to serve God and members of the congregation. She referenced 1 Peter 4:10 (NIV): "Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God's grace in its various forms."

She reminded the congregation that we all have gifts to use in God's service, and because of God's Grace, we must remember our sacred duty to praise God for all of the blessings He graciously gives us. We must offer personal, selfish, and collective praise to God for all his marvelous works, and we must be the light that draws others to the foot of the cross.

Women's Day & Missionaries' Day The Annual Women's & Missionaries' Day was a resounding success! The worship leader for the program was Sis. Yolonda Fuller, and the sermon was delivered by Rev. Louis (l-r): Sis. Shirley Logan, Sis. Majorie Young, Sis. Valerie Cheatham, Sis. Simmons. Rev. Simmons's title was, "Be Patient Peggy Fox, Sis. Ruby Cole (President of the Stewardess Board), Rev. with Me, God is Not through with Me Yet!" His Keaton Fuller, and Sis. Betty Kimble. text was taken from Philippians 1:6 (NKJV): "being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus." According to Rev. Simmons, each of us is a work in progress, and we can be confident that God will be with us, be what we need, develop our character and our purpose, and accomplish His Will in our lives. As a result, we should trust, watch, and believe in God. 32

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Submissions

The Women of Mt. Pilgrim CME

(l-r): Sis. Gloria Glass, Sis. Majorie Young, Sis. Betty Kimble, Missionary President, Sis. Gloria Stephens, Sis. Katherine Thrower, and Sis. Ruby Cole, President of the Stewardess

Women's Retreat Sis. Betty Kimble (Missionary President), Sis. Linda Dedmon (Missionary Vice-President), and Sis. Gloria Stephens (Retreat Coordinator) prepared a wonderful program for more than fifty-five women. The program included a Prayer Breakfast with Sis. Kathy Davis as the speaker, an Hour of Power with testimonies and two Arias performed by Sis. Denise Stephens, Lunch, and Special Activities: chair massages, stretch lab sessions, health assessments, manicures, and facials. The men of Mt. Pilgrim prepared and served both meals, set up the event space, and participated in the Hour of Power: Bro. Melvin Cole, Bro. Anthony Duncan, Bro. Maurice Fox, Bro. Andrew Clark, Bro. Henry Griffin, Bro. Dennis Stephens, Bro. Jalan Boyce, Bro. Avery Williams, and Rev. Keaton Fuller.

The theme for the retreat was, "Christian Women Being Bold Taking Care of Both Body and Soul." Sis. Linda Dedmon was the Worship Leader; Sis. Sharean Wilson read the scripture - Proverbs 31:10-31; Sis. Gloria Sanders offered prayer; and Sis. Kathy Davis was the orator. Sis. Davis reiterated the theme of the program and said that women had to be confident and courageous in order to boldly take care of both their body and soul. She said we must walk in boldness and the power of God's Word. We take care of our physical body by maintaining a healthy life style: exercising, eating Sis. Kathy Davis) correctly, resting, drinking water, and relieving stress. Our body is God's, and we should remember that He bought it when he died in our place on the cross. Sis. Davis defined the soul as the mind, the will, and the emotions, and our soul is cared for when we pray daily, meditate on God's Word, attend church, and hope relentlessly with confidence in God's Promises. As we take care of our soul, the depth of our faith increases, and we become bold like the Shunammite Woman (2 Kings 4:8-30, NIV) and the Woman with the Issue of Blood (Luke 8:43-48, NIV). That boldness allows us to think good thoughts, do good deeds, and walk in faith rather than fear.

Fort Worth District M2M Kid-N-Fish Day Mt. Pilgrim CME celebrated with other churches across the metroplex by participating in the M2M [(Ministry to Men)] Kid-N-Fish Day. Held at the South Lakes Park on Hobson Lane in Denton, the event lasted from 7:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. The participants had a great time as they celebrated family, fun, faith, and food. The kids enjoyed the worms and lures, and many scooped up fish!

Continued on next page October 2024 • The Christian Index

33

Submissions Continued from previous page Celebration of Graduates We have wonderful young people at Mt. Pilgrim CME; we nurture them, watch them grow, and trust God to watch over them as they leave our nest. Each year we do this, we reflect on the time and wonder where it went. We remember the graduates as babies, elementary school children, middle schoolers, and then high school graduates. This year we saw two beautiful young women open the next chapter of their lives in pursuit of higher education: Sis. Imani Duncan and Sis. Jayla Cheatham. Both are bright, capable, and dedicated participants in our church. We will feel their absence, but we know God is able to provide for them and protect them, so we release them to begin their journey with Jehovah Shammah - God is There. Not only is God with us, he is on the campus of Southern University and Tarleton State University. He will be the light that guides Imani and Jayla, and our other graduates returning to other campuses across the state: (Mya Fuller - Texas Tech University in Lubbock; and Kyla Duncan - Prairie View A&M in Prairie View, TX).

Sis. Imani Duncan is attending Southern University in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Imani is a Cum Laude Graduate of Founder's Classical Academy in Lewisville, TX, where she was President of the Cheerleading Squad. She was very active in Mt. Pilgrim CME as the Chair of the CYF, member of the Youth Choir, and member of the Jr. Usher Board. Her parents are Anthony and Tia Duncan, and her sister's name is Kyla. Imani plans to major in Family and Consumer Science, and she received scholarships from Mt. Pilgrim CME, the 8th Episcopal District Missionaries, the Citywide Ushers of Denton, and the (l-r): Sis. Imani Duncan and Sis. Jayla Cheatham Christian Methodist Episcopal Church.

Sis. Jayla Cheatham is a graduate of Lewisville High School in Lewisville, TX. She is attending Tarleton State University where she plans to major in Kinesiology; Jayla wants to become a Physical Therapist. Her parents are Valerie and Jason Cheatham, and her brother's name is Brandon. Jayla was active in the CYF and the Youth Choir. She received a scholarship from Mt. Pilgrim CME, a band scholarship, and others. She is a member of the National Honor Society.

Vacation Bible School "The Great Jungle Journey" was the theme for Vacation Bible School. The lessons and supplemental material were designed to answer important life questions, connect daily life with the Bible, and explain the 7 Cs of History and how these shaped our world. Some of the questions explored included the following: 1.) Why do bad things happen to good people?

2.) Why do I need a savior?

3.) Did God create everything?

As the epic cruise from Genesis to Revelation evolved, participants engaged in lessons, music, crafts, and group activities to examine Creation, Corruption, Catastrophe, Confusion, Christ, Cross, and Consummation. The curriculum was thoughtprovoking, timely, and well-received.

Final Thought Though we have different gifts, we all have a place to serve at Mt. Pilgrim CME. Through our service we grow, we increase our faith, and we become more like Jesus Christ. If you have a Meta-Facebook account, check us out at https://www. facebook.com/MPCMEC/. If you are in the Denton Area, feel free to join us in person (Sunday Worship Service at 10:45 a.m.) as we serve God, our parishioners, and our community. You will find our doors open, our hearts open, and our hands ready to serve.

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The Christian Index • October 2024

Children/Youth

Wordsearch Puzzle for October (Indigenous Peoples Day - October 14, 2024)

AMERICAS ATTENTION CELEBRATION COLONIZATION COLUMBUS CONTRIBUTIONS DISCOVERY GENOCIDE HISTORY HOLIDAY

HONOR INDIGENOUS MONDAY NARRATIVE NATIVE OCTOBER PROCLAMATION RESILIENCE VIOLENCE WHITEWASHED

October 2024 • The Christian Index

35

Children/Youth Answers to Puzzle

Ecumenical From: https://www.itc.edu/news/press-releases/rev-dr-mason-jr-appointed-interim-president/. Accessed 9-28-2024.

Welcome to Our New Interim President Rev. Dr. Herman “Skip” Mason, Jr.

Alumnus, Pastor and Professor Rev. Dr. Herman “Skip” Mason, Jr. Appointed Interim President of the Historic ITC, an Atlanta HBCU Accreditation Reaffirmed through 2032; Campus Redevelopment in Progress (ATLANTA) August 29, 2024 – The Historic Interdenominational Theological Center (ITC) announces alumnus, pastor and professor Rev. Dr. Herman “Skip” Mason, Jr. as the new interim president.

A proud native of Atlanta and an honors graduate of the Atlanta Public Schools (Therrell High School), Dr. Mason matriculated and graduated from Morris Brown College. He continued his education at Clark Atlanta 36

The Christian Index • October 2024

Ecumenical University and earned a master’s degree in Library and Information Science with a concentration in African American Studies. He is also a graduate of the ITC where he obtained the Master of Divinity and the Doctor of Ministry degrees in African American Church History, Social Justice, and Outreach.

“On behalf of the Board of Trustees, I am thrilled to welcome Rev. Dr. Herman “Skip” Mason as the interim president of the ITC. Dr. Mason’s deep love for the ITC is evident in his long standing connection with this institution, where he earned two degrees. His profound education, extensive experience in higher education, and significant social reach makes him uniquely qualified to lead us during this pivotal time. As an alumnus, his enthusiasm and dedication are unparalleled, and I am confident that his leadership will propel the ITC to even greater heights. As Chairman of the Board, I am excited to see the remarkable strides we will achieve together under his guidance,” stated Calvin E. Booker, Sr., Chairman, ITC Board of Trustees.

The position became available when Interim President Rev. Dr. Maisha I.K. Handy was named the first Black female president of McCormick Theological Seminary, a Presbyterian seminary in Chicago’s Hyde Park.

“We are excited to have Dr. Mason join the ITC Village. I am personally pleased to pass the baton of the interim presidency to a well-equipped leader with an Africentric way of being,” stated Dr. Handy.

The ITC is a well-known HBCU and UNCF member institution within the prestigious Atlanta University Center in Southwest Atlanta. For over 65 years, the ITC has served as an ecumenical consortium of seminaries and fellowships, awarding master’s and doctoral-level degrees and graduating pastors, ministers, community activists, and nonprofit leaders. These aptly named “prophetic problem solvers” go on to make lasting impacts locally, nationally, and internationally. The collective African American membership of its partner denominations reaches over 25 million congregants.

Dr. Mason will lead an institution that, in 2022, received a 10-year reaffirmation of accreditation from the Association of Theological Schools (ATS) Commission on Accrediting. ATS also approved all of the ITC’s educational offerings, including comprehensive distance education. The 10.4-acre campus is in the process of a historic transformation into an ecologically responsible, tech-savvy, community-embedded hub that may include housing, retail, community office spaces, conference space, a new chapel, administrative offices, and hybrid classrooms. That process is being implemented now.

“I am deeply honored and profoundly grateful to the ITC Board of Trustees for this opportunity to serve the ITC, a place that is not just an institution but a sacred home to me. There is no place like the ITC, where our collective strength lies in our unity. I am committed to continuing the mission of this beloved institution, standing on the shoulders of the trailblazing faculty who have shaped us into prophetic problem solvers. As interim president, my desire is to see, listen, embrace, plan, act, and most importantly, pray with our community as we journey together towards a future filled with promise,” stated Dr. Mason.

Dr. Mason served as the 33rd General President of the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. from 2009-2012. He also served on the board of the Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial Foundation (Washington, DC). He is a member of the Atlanta Beltline Partnership Board and Chair of the Joint Board of Finance for the Georgia North Region of the Sixth Episcopal District of the Christian Methodist Episcopal Church. Rev. Dr. Mason currently serves as the Senior Pastor of the Historic West Mitchell Christian Methodist Episcopal Church (Atlanta, Georgia).

A seasoned educator for over 35 years, Dr. Mason previously served as the Dean of Library and Museum Services and Assistant Professor of African American History and Religion at Voorhees College (Denmark, Continued on next page October 2024 • The Christian Index

37

Ecumenical Continued from previous page [South Carolina]). He also served as Professor of History, College Archivist, Director and Dean of Students and Vice President of Student Services at Morris Brown College and Morehouse College (Atlanta, Georgia). In 2023, Rev. Dr. Mason became a Lifetime Achievement Inductee into the National Black College Alumni Hall of Fame Foundation, Inc. Dr. Mason is a social media influencer and founder of Skip Mason’s Vanishing Black Atlanta Facebook Page (with over 65,000 members) and its Book Club. The father of two is an author and avid genealogist, who enjoys reading, international travel, collecting art, black memorabilia and photographs and researching his family history.

“I issue a clarion call to all denominations, alumni, current and former students, and those who feel called to seminary—ITC awaits you. Our best days are ahead of us, for we are stronger together, and with our eyes on the prize, we will elevate the ITC to the Next Level of Excellence. The ancestors are in formation, blessings are on the horizon, and together, we will stand true to our God and true to our native land,” stated Dr. Mason.

For more information on applying to the ITC, please contact Admissions@itc.edu.

For more information on the ITC, please contact the Office of Institutional Advancement at nljones@itc.edu.

Follow the Historic ITC on Facebook/Instagram @ITCAtlanta and on Twitter @ITCEducation.

NOW AVAILABLE!!!

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

38

• 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

The Christian Index • October 2024

Ecumenical

November 18-20, 2024 The premier national gathering for African American faith communities, health professionals, and community activists who seek to improve the health profile of Black Americans.

Pre-Register Today!

Individual Pre-Registration

Click or go to https://www.balmingilead.org/conference-pre-registration/ for Individual Pre-Registration $25 per person

Groups of 20 or More: Become a Certified Faith Partner! and receive PRE-REGISTRATION $15.00 PER PERSON PLEASE GO TO BALM IN GILEAD INC AND CLICK ON THE DESIRED METHOD TO REGISTER. Need your help.

Please consider becoming a Certified Faith Partner Sent by Dr. Elnora P. Hamb, Secretary of Board of Directors Balm in Gilead.

October 2024 • The Christian Index

39

Announcing Publication of the 2024 General Connectional Board/Unity Summit "The Daily Index" The Daily Index (Compiled) for this recent Connectional meeting is now available to preview and for purchase for online viewing only at the link below. At 32 pages, this issue is the largest special issue published by this editor to-date.

This newsletter is a comprehensive compilation of almost all of the major events during the entire 2024 General Connectional Board and Unity Summit of the Christian Methodist Episcopal Church. It is a special publication of the General Department of The Christian Index, the official organ of the Christian Methodist Episcopal Church. The response from the reporters was tremendous, and their work outstanding. You will want to get this issue.

If you are a subscriber to the digital issue, it is already available to you. If you are not an online subscriber, you may use the link below to review and purchase. The cost is just $10.00. Thank you for your support and prayers for this ministry of our church.

Ore Spragin, Editor, The Christian Index

Purchase link: https://issuu.com/orespragin/docs/the_daily_index_compilation_2024_general_connecti 40

The Christian Index • October 2024

October 2024 • The Christian Index

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42

The Christian Index • October 2024

CME Connectional Directory THE COLLEGE OF BISHOPS Senior Bishop Lawrence L. Reddick - 8th Episcopal District - 1616 E. Illinois Ave., Dallas TX 75216; 214-372-9073 (office); email: llreddick3@yahoo.com Bishop Thomas L. Brown, Sr. - 6th Episcopal District, 2028 Wesley Chapel Road, Decatur GA 30035-2395; 404-963-6652 (office); 404-963-6656 (fax); 6thdistrictcme@gmail.com

OR 6thdistrict@thecmechurch.org Bishop Kenneth Wayne Carter - 4th Episcopal District - 5417 Robinson Road Extension, Jackson MS 39204; 769-251-0531 (office); 769-251-0758 (fax); 817-938-3747; KWCarter8@gmail.com Bishop James B. Walker - 7th Episcopal District, P.O. Box 1481, Hartford CT 06144; 301-270-7136; 301-270-7139 (fax) Bishop Sylvester Williams, Sr. - 3rd Episcopal District, Post Office Box 211237, Normandy MO 63121; 314-381-3111 (office); 314-381-2060 (fax); sw58cme@aol.com Bishop Teresa E. Snorton - Ecumenical Representative and Development Officer, P.O. Box 5069, Sun City Center FL 33571; 404-307-2911; BishopSnorton@thecmechurch.org Bishop Marvin Frank Thomas - 1st Episcopal District, Suite 222, 4466 Elvis Presley Blvd, Memphis TN 38116; 901-345-4114 (office) and 901-345-4115 (fax) Bishop C. Kelby Heath - 5th Episcopal District CME Church, P.O. Box 13383, Birmingham AL 35202-3383; 205-202-6504; cmec35203@yahoo.com; Web site: www.cmefifthdistrict.org;

office located at 2615 12th Avenue N, Birmingham Al. 35234 (do not send mail to the office address) Bishop Denise Anders-Modest - 2nd Episcopal District, P.O. Box 36455, Cincinnati OH 45236; 318-348-8982; bishopandersmodest@thecmechurch.org; 2ndEpiscopaldistrictcme.org Bishop Charley Hames, Jr. - 9th Episcopal District, 9440 Santa Monica Blvd., Suite 301, Beverly Hills CA 90210; 323-294-3830; bishophames@thecmechurch.org Bishop Ricky D. Helton - 10th Episcopal District, 1703 Tamarack Street NW, Washington DC 20012; 202-726-5103; heltonfam1@aol.com Bishop Kwame Lawson Adjei - 11th Episcopal District, P. O. Box AN 7639, Accra, Ghana, West Africa; 011-233-244-630267; rev.adjei@hotmail.com.

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

Rev. Dr. Kevin J. Agee - P.O. Box 55834, Washington, D.C. 20040; 201-736-9107 (c) or 301-638-7124 (h); revkjagee@hotmail.com Dr. Lynda Brown-Wright - 3157 Dale Hollow Dr., Lexington KY 40515; 859-433-3396; Lynda.brownwright@gmail.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 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, 4817 Murfreesboro Road - #399, Arrington TN 37014; 847-274-0182 (main); 312-706-6804 (work); 240-359-6272 (fax); vtaylor@dficmechurch.org; https://www.hightail.com/u/cmefinance (securely upload confidential documents here) Rev. Dr. Leon C. Moore, Jr. - General Secretary of Evangelism and Missions, 2893 Hwy 178 West, Holly Springs MS 38635; 678-362-7549; cmegdem@gmail.com Dr. Jacqueline I. Scott - President, Women's Missionary Council, 7255 Richmond Road, Memphis TN 38125; 901-737-7675; scottjacqueline210@yahoo.com Rev. Reginald G. Barnes - Gen. Sect. General Bd. of Personnel Services, P.O. Box 74 - Memphis TN 38101-0074; 901-345-4100; FAX 901-345-4107 Mr. Anthony J. Smoaks, Sr. - Gen. Sect., Ministry to Men, PO Box 3, Egg Harbor NJ 08215; 201-892-3942; CMEM2M@gmail.com.

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

Dr. Jeanette Bouknight - Executive Secretary, Retired, 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 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. Jamea Sevel Grace - President, Connectional Young Adult Ministry; 2000 Mallow Lane Apt 204, Kernersville NC 27284; 336-354-2034; 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. Donald W. Comer - Interim President, Lane College, 545 Lane Ave., Jackson TN 38301; 731-426-7595 (office); 731-427-3987 (fax) Ms. Bobbie Knight - President, Miles College, P. O. Box 39800, Birmingham AL 35208; 205-929-1428; 205-929-1448; 205-929-1429; 205-929-1426 (fax) Dr. Dwight Fennell - President, Texas College, 2404 N. Grand Ave., Tyler TX 75702; 903-593-8311; 903-593-0588 (fax) Dr. Cheryl Evans Jones - Office of the President, Paine College, 1235 Fifteenth St., Augusta GA 30901-3182; 706-821-8230 (office); 706-821-8320 (Admissions)

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