2022 Piedmont South Carolina Annual Conference Literary Reports

Name of Annual Conference: Piedmont (SC) Annual Conference

Date: October 27 29,2022

Committee Name: Judicial Committee

Chair: Reverend Judy M. Richardson, Presiding Elder

Members: The Reverends Lebbie Ligon, Arthur Raven, James Louden III, Sarah Williams, and Julius Johnson

Report: To be reported live during the Piedmont Annual Conference.

Name of Annual Conference: Piedmont Annual Conference

Date: October 27 29, 2022

Committee Name: Triers of Appeals

Chair: Rev. Roland E. D. Sigman

Members: The Reverends: Beatrice O. Coleman, Sandra Smith, Adam China, and Gregory E. Singleton

Report:

To be reported live during the Piedmont Annual Conference.

Name of Annual Conference: Piedmont (SC) Annual Conference

Date: October 27 29, 2022

Committee Name: Conference Trustees

Chair: Presiding The Right Reverend Samuel L. Green, Sr.

Members: Presiding Elder Judy M. Richardson, Presiding Elder Dr. Derrick Scott; The Reverends: James E. Speed, Sr., Adam L. China, Cornell Richardson, Jr., James Louden, III, Hannie D. Milling, Jr., Willie Rice, and Paul Wharton; Brothers: John Merrill, James Tisdale, Frankie Jones, and Johnnie F. Sprowl; Sisters: Vallery Smith, Kimberly Chamberlain, and Renae Frazier

Report:

We, the members of the Piedmont Conference Trustees, present the following report:

1. On April 2, 2022, Vice Chair Elder Judy M. Richardson opened the meeting for discussion regarding the resolution of Seventh Episcopal District of the African Methodist Episcopal Church, Incorporated unanimous consent to action without meeting by its Annual Conferences. Following a brief discussion, the members of the Piedmont Conference Trustees made the following motions:

a. Motion made by Reverend Adam L. China and seconded by Reverend James E. Speed, Sr. that the Seventh Episcopal District of the African Methodist Episcopal Church, Incorporated unanimous consent to action without meeting by its Annual Conferences. Motion made and carried. Voted upon unanimously.

b. Motion made by Reverend Paul Wharton and seconded by Reverend Cornell Richardson, Jr. to proceed with the renovation financing between $15 20 million but not to exceed $20 million. Motion made and carried. Voted upon unanimously.

2. On July 24, 222, the Trustees accepted the request of Kings Chapel A.M.E. Church be granted to acquire additional funds and refinance the present loan to renovate the front vestibule to include new restrooms. The original loan amount was $150,000 with a current loan balance of $77,773.53 as of July 24, 2022. The current monthly payment is $1,212.67 at a rate of 5.25%. The proposed loan refinance would increase the loan amount to $162,000.00 at a rate of 4.5% which is lower than the current rate. The amortization is for 60 months over 15 years with a review of every 5 years. The new monthly payment will be $1,275.00. Motion made and carried. Voted upon unanimously.

Respectfully submitted,

The Piedmont Annual Conference Trustees

Name of Annual Conference: Piedmont South Carolina Annual Conference

Date: October 27 29, 2022

Committee Name: Deeds, Abstracts, Abandoned Property

Chair: Presiding Elders: Rev. Judy M. Richardson, Rev. Dr. Derrick Scott

Members: Reverends: Paul N. Wharton, George Oliver, Carroll Wells, Jr., Clifford Jackson, Barry Leverette Brothers: James Tisdale, JaCory Cleveland, James Finley Sisters: Mary Tolbert, Ida Korens, Thelma Woods, Tessie Singleton, Thedora Williams

1. Mt. Pleasant A.M.E. Church Property

Abbeville County (Calhoun Falls, South Carolina) off Island Ford Road

2.37 Acres Last appraisal December 1987 (Property solidified)

2. Clear Springs A.M.E. Church Property

Abbeville County (Highway 20)

6 acres Deeded 1851 and 1990 (Property solidified)

3. Pleasant Grove Property (NO RECORD currently)

Abbeville, South Carolina (Mt. Carmel)

4. Mt. Lebanon A.M.E. Church Property

Greenwood County (Arabian Road)

3 ½ acres Deeded 1897 and 1905 (Property solidified)

5. Piedmont Conference (Allen University) Property

Greenwood County (Cokesbury, South Carolina)

228 Allen University Rd.

2 acres and a lot Deeded 1989 (Property solidified)

6. Mt. Zion AME Property (Property solidified)

3.05 Acres

Joanna, South Carolina. (Kinard’s, SC 29355)

7. Walnut Grove AME Property

Laurens, South Carolina (County)

Estimated @ 2Acres (Property solidified)

8. Bethel AME Church (Property solidified)

.99Acre

Laurens, South Carolina

Recommendations:

Pastor and the Board of Trustees elected by the local church take actions to ensure all properties are deeded correctly, with the following words “HELD IN TRUST” for the African Methodist Episcopal Church.

Respectfully submitted, The Piedmont Annual Conference Deeds, Abstracts, Abandoned Property

Name of Annual Conference: Piedmont (SC) Annual Conference

Date: October 27 29, 2022

Committee Name: Incorporation of Church Property

Chair: Reverend George H. Oliver

Members: The Reverends Clifford Jackson, Franklin Pruitt, Jr., Melton Aiken, Mary Elmore; Brothers Frankie Jones and Trivon McNair; Lizette McDuffie, Lusylvia Glover, and Iris Davis

We, the members of the Committee on Incorporation of Church Property of the Piedmont Annual Conference, conferred with the Presiding Elders of the Piedmont Annual Conference (the Reverend Judy M. Richardson and the Reverend Dr. Derrick Scott) concerning the Incorporation of Church Properties within the Annual Conference. We are pleased to present the following report:

All churches in the Piedmont Conference are Incorporated properly.

Respectfully Submitted,

The Piedmont Annual Conference Incorporation of Church Property

Name of Annual Conference: Piedmont (SC) Annual Conference

Date: October 27 29,2022

Committee Name: Missions, Circuits, and Stations

Chair: Reverend Beatrice O. Coleman

Members: The Reverends Arthur Raven, Corey Moss, Cornell Richardson, Jr., James Louden, III, Harold Chapman, Katherine Allen, Betty Martin; Brothers James Quarles, Floyd Nelson; Sisters Joyce Tinch, Roberta Weathers, Brenda Tolbert, Diedre Moore, Bessie E. Williams, Theodora Williams

Report:

As reported by the Reverend Judy M. Richardson, Presiding Elder of the Greenville District, and the Reverend Dr. Derrick Scott, Presiding Elder of the Abbeville Greenwood District, no changes have been made and there are no proposed changes for any churches in either district.

Therefore, there are no recommendations, from the Committee.

Respectfully submitted,

The Piedmont Annual Conference Missions, Circuits, and Stations

Name of Annual Conference: Piedmont (SC) Annual Conference

Date: October 27 29, 2022

Committee Name: Presiding Elders Salary and Upkeep

Chair: Reverend James E. Speed, Sr., and Reverend Adam China Members: Rev. Jennifer Brown, Rev. Julius M. Johnson, Rev. Roland E.D. Sigman, Rev James Louden, III, Rev. Rev. Sandra M. Smith, Rev Carroll Wells Jr., Rev. Clifford Jackson; Brothers: Bro. John Merrill, Bro. Robert Duncan. Sisters Sis. Bessie E. Williams Sis. Carmella Powell , Sis. Janell Ray, Sis. Charlene Louden, Sis. Mattie Jackson, Sis. Roberta Weathers, Sis. Teresa Griffin

Report:

The Greenville District met at Friendship AME Church on Saturday March 26th 2022. The recommendation for the Greenville District was no salary or upkeep increase for the 2022/2023 Annual Conference year.

The Abbeville/Greenwood District met at Cypress Chapel AME Church March 25th & 26th 2022. The recommendation of the Abbeville Greenwood District was no salary and upkeep increase for the 2022/2023 Annual Conference year.

The recommendation of the Piedmont Conference committee on Presiding Elder Salary & Upkeep is no salary and upkeep increase for the Annual Conference year 2022/2023

Respectfully submitted,

The Piedmont Annual Conference Presiding Elders Salary and Upkeep

Name of Annual Conference: Piedmont (SC) Annual Conference

Date: October 27 29, 2022

Committee Name: Annuity and Investments

Chair: Reverend James E. Louden, III

Members: The Reverends James Louden, III, Michael Young, Andrew Jones, Gregory E. Singleton, Pamela Aiken; Brothers: Donald Moss, Herbert McAllister; Sisters: Mona Rogers, Johnnie Thompson, Margie Olewunne, Bessie E. Williams, Pasty Flody.

Report

We, the members of the Committee on Annuity and Investments, conferred with the Presiding Elders of the Piedmont Annual Conference, the Reverend Judy M. Richardson, and the Reverend Dr. Derrick Scott, concerning the Pastors’ participation in the Annuity and Investment program within the Annual Conference.

The inquiry revealed that each eligible Pastor of the Greenville District is officially enrolled and contributes at least an equivalent of 12% of their annual salary into the annuity and investment program.

The inquiry also revealed that each eligible Pastor in the Abbeville Greenwood District, except one, who reported the minimum amount of $312.00, contributes at least 12% of their annual salary into the annuity and investment program.

We conclude that the Piedmont Annual Conference is in compliance with The Doctrine and Discipline of the A.M.E. Church.

Recommendations:

1. We recommend that we remain in compliance with the Doctrine and Discipline of the African Methodist Episcopal Church.

2. We also recommend that participants are encouraged to increase their contributions to their annuity.

Respectfully Submitted,

The Piedmont Annual Conference Annuity and Investments Committee

Name of Annual Conference: Piedmont (SC) Annual Conference

Date: October 27 29,2021

Committee Name: Classification of Pastors

Chair: Reverend Gregory E. Singleton

Members: Reverends: Courtney Colleton, Melton Aiken, Katherine Allen, Reginald Morton, Franklin Pruitt, Jr.

Pursuant to the Book of Discipline (2016 pages 138 & 139) of the African Methodist Episcopal Church, the Itinerant Elders of the Piedmont Annual Conference of the 7th District are classified as follows:

Definitions:

Class A: Full time pastors having traveled eight (8) consecutive years; and any ordained elder holding a degree from a college or seminary and shall have traveled at least one year as a full time pastor. Full time pastors are itinerant elders who wholly and solely give of their time and talents to the pastoral duties without any other work, professional or common, that interferes with or prevents the performance of the regular ministerial duties of a pastor as negotiated between the pastor and the Board of Stewards.

Class B: Itinerants elders having traveled for four (4) consecutive years as full time pastors.

Class C: Full time pastors who are itinerant elders in the AME Church.

Class D: Full time pastors who have not been ordained itinerant elders. Class E: Part time ministers.

Classifications:

Class A: 2 Presiding Elders + 20 Pastors = 22 (Abbeville Greenwood = 14, Greenville = 8) {13 possess the Master of Divinity (MDiv) degree}

Class E: 11 (Abbeville Greenwood = 4, Greenville = 7) {8 possess the Master of Divinity (MDiv) degree}

Recommendations:

1. Full time pastors should make every attempt to maintain regular office hours. In the very least all pastors should inform their members when they are available to be contacted.

2. Full and Part time pastors should make every attempt to engage the respective city and county government councils and officials in our communities with and on behalf of our congregations.

3. Every pastor should, considering the criticality of the upcoming election cycle(s), engage the members of our churches and communities in “Voter Registration Drives” and “Get Out The

Vote” events to ensure that candidates will be elected that have our best interest at heart and mind.

BACKUP DATA

Greenville District

P.E. Judy M Richardson Full Time

James E Speed, Sr. Full Time

Roland E.D Sigman Full Time

Melton Aiken Full Time

Cornell Richardson, Jr Full Time

Willie Rice Full Time

Sandra M. Smith Full Time

Carrie Samuel Full Time

Arthur Raven Part Time

Reginald Morton Part Time

Clifford Jackson Part Time

Carroll Wells Jr. Part Time

Barry Leverette Part Time

James Brownlee Part Time

Gregory E. Singleton Part Time

Abbeville-Greenwood District

P.E. Derrick Scott Full Time

Adam L. China Full Time

James Louden III Full Time

Julius M. Johnson Full Time

John W. Paul Full Time

Hannie D. Milling Full Time

Andrew Jones Full Time

Beatrice O. Coleman Full Time

Paul Wharton Full Time

Harry L. Burns Full Time

Anthony Dunlap Full Time

Lebbie Ligon Full Time

Jennifer Brown Full Time

Katherine Allen Full Time

Furman M Miller Part Time

George Oliver Part Time

Courtney Colleton Part Time

Franklin Pruitt, Jr. Part Time

Respectfully Submitted,

Name of Annual Conference: Piedmont (SC) Annual Conference

Date: October 27 29, 2022

Committee Name: Social Action

Chair: Reverend Carroll Wells, Jr.

Members: Reverends: Annette Edwards, Sandra M. Smith, JoAnne McIntosh, Richard Temple, Jacqueline Aiken, Melody Morton; Sisters: Shirley Jefferson, Vanessa Pressley, Karla Carpenter, Gladys Long, Johnnie Thompson Brothers: Emanuel Sellers, John Merrill Sr., Herbert McAlister, Jimmie Hurley

Report

As the Conference Committee, we stand to report now more than ever before, that the work must continue in these United States and the Global Community. The prevailing reality of our society is that we now more than ever as a Church and people, need to speak truth to power. In light of all the latest global crisis is the continued battle with Covid 19. The outbreak, first reported in Wuhan China in December 2019, exploded into a Global Pandemic within weeks. In the third year of the pandemic, as “pandemic fatigue” pushes many to put aside preventive measures, progress is evident, and vaccines have saved many lives. The science continues to learn more, but at the same time, so does the virus.

Three studies published by the CDC show that COVID 19 booster shots provide the best protection against the Omicron variant and the new sub variants. One of the studies found that the booster shots were 90% effective at preventing Covid 19 associated emergency department or urgent care visits and hospitalizations during both the Delta and Omicron surges. All three studies found that unvaccinated people faced the highest risks of becoming sick with COVID 19.

Recommendations

We strongly recommend each local church activate their local Social Action ministry within their church and surrounding neighborhood.

We must continue to encourage the community to continue the series of updated vaccinations.

Churches must continue to practice safe and deliberate protocols within their local church. We must continue to monitor ourselves by screenings and temperature checks regularly. As Black leaders, we must continue to lead our people by example about this dreaded Covid 19 which continues to cause harm and death to so many, especially the underprivileged and uninformed.

Local churches, along with health care agencies, must sponsor forums, seminars, and discussion groups to educate the congregation and community.

Respectfully Submitted,

The Piedmont Annual Conference Committee on Social Action

Name of Annual Conference: Piedmont (SC) Annual Conference

Date: October 27 29, 2022

Committee Name: Church Growth and Development

Chair. Reverend Paul N. Wharton

Members: Reverends: Barry Leverette, Krystal Bryant, James Brownlee, Beverly Weaver, Ricardo Herriott Brother: Bernard Wideman Sisters: Edna Richardson, Carolyn Simmons, Renee’ Suber Kinard.

Report:

Join us as we welcome the new Chair of the Commission on Church Growth and Development, the Right Reverend Reginald T. Jackson. Bishop Jackson is the 132nd elected and consecrated bishop of the AME Church and the Presiding Prelate of the 6th Episcopal District.

It is an exciting time for Church Growth and Development as we begin a new era under our new Executive Director of Church Growth and Development Reverend Dr. Marcellus Norris. He has hit the ground running making plans for the work of the Department.

The Rev. Dr. Marcellus A. Norris believes that the AME church is NOT a dying church but has everything it needs to grow even higher from the ground up under a three point plan: (Reclaim, Evangelize, Develop)

As we grow Church Growth and Development should create and develop radical disciples and disciple makers for the sake of the Gospel; • Equip members of our Zion to become spiritually empowered witnesses for the Kingdom of God in order to RECLAIM, EVANGELIZE and DEVELOP as greater laborers for the harvest; • Ensure that the presence of Christ, the power of the Holy Spirit, and the place of African Methodism is present wherever people are situated throughout the world. with intensive biblically grounded, spiritually impacted, culturally relevant teaching, practical training.

For over 60 years, the Department of Church Growth and Development has held to the principle of teaching and training AME clergy and laity in evangelism and discipleship that leads to spiritual growth in our members and a numeric increase in our congregations. The Department aims to assist AME clergy and laity in leading all people to accept the Lord Jesus Christ as one’s savior through the guidance of the Holy Spirit.

There are five ways the pandemic has changed church growth.

Recommendations:

1. Know Where the Church is Going There is an old saying, “if you fail to plan, you plan to fail.”

2. Create an Inviting Atmosphere- It is unfortunate, but true, that we are a consumer driven society and people are naturally drawn to an aesthetically appealing environment.

3. Create a Welcoming Experience Understanding their unique needs and ensuring their needs are met within the scope of the vision is critical to church growth.

4. Express love in every possible way-By meeting every possible need.

5. Provide Opportunities to Serve At the core of all of us is a desire to serve others. Jesus did it and as Christians, we need to be provided with opportunities to help other people.

Respectfully Submitted,

The Piedmont Annual Conference Church Growth Committee

Name of Annual Conference: Piedmont Annual Conference

Date: October 27 29, 2022

Committee Name: Church Planting

Chair: Roland E. D. Sigman; Presiding Elders: Derrick Scott, Judy M. Richardson

Reverends: Deidrick Smith, James E. Speed, Sr., Douglas Belcher, Michael Young, James Brownlee, Joseph Cade; Brothers: Bernard Wideman, Floyd Nelson; Sisters: Bessie E. Williams, Edna Richardson, Rosa Reed, Carolyn Simon, Shirley Jefferson, Belinda Young

Report

Church planting has been and continues to be an integral part of the Biblical story. It began as early as God’s people building an altar or pitching a tent in the wilderness to our current places of worship. The Apostle Paul solidified The Great Commission's mandate to continue making Disciples by planting churches in every place where he shared the Good News of Jesus Christ.

Although our society is constantly changing, spreading the Good News for growth remains the same. Furthermore, the traditional models of church planting that required physical space and years of planning are no longer considered hindrances in accomplishing the mandate. The church is no longer a place of brick and mortar. Now, a person can experience church on a variety of virtual platforms. The internet offers online, cyber, and digital churches that provide seekers and believers with many ways to facilitate their religious formation. For example, this can be done through activities such as prayer groups, special interest groups, and worship services.

Therefore, the Piedmont Conference has a great opportunity to participate in church planting despite its location or congregational size. With the use of a quality phone to a high definition camera, a church can begin a new church plant. The digital church requires a fraction of the money, no new physical area, or years of planning. It would be beneficial for the churches of this annual conference to consider planting a digital church. By doing so, we will fulfill the mandate and make an impact on the world for the Kingdom of God!

Recommendations:

1. The Greenville District

Continue organizing and exploring areas to add AME churches in Oconee, Greenville, and Spartanburg Counties.

2. The Abbeville Greenwood District

Identify places within their tri county area where an AME presence would be strategic for growth.

3. Have Pop up Church events in those areas with information to connect with a virtual church from the district

4. Identify consultants for equipping the church with adequate technology and training.

5. Continue to implement Discipleship training to increase the number of disciples within each of the districts to cultivate a culture of growth within the local churches.

Respectfully Submitted, The Committee on Church Planting

Name of Annual Conference: Piedmont Annual Conference

Date: October 27 29, 2022

Committee Name: State of the Church

Chairs: Reverend Lebbie Lee Ligon

Members: Reverends Corey A. E. Moss, Sallie Joe, JoAnne McIntosh, Anthony Dunlap, III, Clifford Jackson, Ricardo Herriott; Brothers Jerome Quarles, Herbert McAlister, Johnny Sprowl; Sisters Clara Sanders, Shirley Mullings, Iris Davis, Machelle Marshall, Victoria Anderson, Patricia Yeldell

Report:

The saying that the more things change, the more they stay the same should have an addendum added, and oftentimes gets worst. We still face inequities and injustices in all areas of society: education, health, housing, employment, finances, law, civil rights, to name some. And as we shared last conference year, that regardless of the times we are facing or the challenges we face, the Church still must be the Church. Therefore, we still walk in the Mission of the African Methodist Episcopal Church: to minister to the social, spiritual, and physical development of all people. Thus, we must continue to learn from the past, move forward toward the future, as we serve the present age.

We ended last conference year with the hope that we would soon be out of the pandemic. The end of this conference year, we find ourselves still navigating through the issues of the coronavirus and its variants, now with the addition of monkeypox. Though back in our sanctuaries as society globally reopened, we do not leave the precautions of gathering safely. Our new normal still employs the usage of masks, temperature checks, covid testing, sanitizing, and social distancing. Technology is more entrenched in the activities of our churches with virtual worship, church school, meetings, Bible Study, prayer meetings, and workshops. There are challenges with in person attendance, whether from proximity fears or complacency. Other issues that the church faces today are community presence, LGBTQ, abortion, political and social unrest, and racism to name some. But through it all, we continue to look to God as our strength and present help. We must remember that God is in control. As the Church, we are God’s vessel, moving forward in holistic ministry as God empowers us to preach, teach, and live His Word. For we walk by faith and not by site for we know that “The Best Is Yet To Come!” As with the Apostle Paul, we are certain that God who began the good work within us will continue His work until it is finally finished on the day when Christ Jesus returns. Philippians 1:6

Recommendations:

1. Continue to enhance and embrace the Class Leader System.

2. Continue to collaborate in finding ways to improve in evangelism and community outreach.

3. Continue to Embrace, Explore, and Increase knowledge in the use of technology to assist with all aspects of ministry and partnerships which may mean financing someone to be trained.

The Piedmont Annual Conference State of the Church Committee

Name of Annual Conference: Piedmont Annual Conference

Date: October 27 29, 2022

Committee Name: State of the Country

Chairs: Reverend Roland E. D. Sigman

Members: Reverends Furman Miller, Jr., James E. Speed, Jr., Leatrice Annette Thomas, James Brownlee, Emmanuel Donaldson, John Booker; Brother: Wesley Pinkett, Kenneth Brownlee, Douglas; Sisters: Charlene Reeder, Elaine Williams, Kimberly Chamberlain, Joyce Tinch, Bernadine Sherad, Pasty Floyd, Roberta Weathers, Renae Suber Kinard

Report:

“We, the People of the United States, in order to form a more perfect union, establish justice, ensure domestic tranquility, provide for the common defense, promote the general welfare, and secure the blessings of liberty to ourselves and our posterity, do ordain and establish this Constitution for the United States of America.”

The preamble of the United States Constitution was created to serve as a guiding principle of this nation. However, there are still major disparities and inequalities that our citizens face daily. We have discovered that when there is a lack of unity among the citizens, they are bound to respond with discontent.

This discontent has manifested with increased hate crimes and gun violence in all sectors of our society. Citizens' rights are being threatened or limited by people elected to serve the interests of all, not a select few. Students and educators from urban to rural communities continue to encounter challenges in receiving adequate funding for education. Neighborhoods that were once thriving have been gentrified, displacing families and their potential to create generational wealth as property owners. Healthcare providers selectively determine what services will be provided based on economics and gender. The scoring of credit has been used to engage in predatory lending practices, to name a few. These realities have harmed families, communities, and institutions alike.

The greatest tool we have in making the preamble of the constitution live up to its purpose is to participate in voting. When we utilize this right, we have the greatest opportunity to affect change for the better. The change will happen when we participate and vote in our local, state, and federal elections.

Therefore, as members of the Piedmont South Carolina Annual Conference of the African Methodist Episcopal Church, we must remain faithful to God as believers, speak truth to power, and vote!

Recommendations:

1. Continue voter registration and voter participation drives.

2. Engage our local, state, and congressional leaders and demand that voting rights remain an unencumbered process.

3. Identify and support members who seek elected office and serve on Boards and Commissions.

4. Utilize the P. E. District Christian Social Action Commission to report and act on issues that affect the P.E. District communities.

Respectfully Submitted

The Piedmont Annual Conference State of the Country Committee

Name of Annual Conference: Piedmont Annual Conference

Date: October 27 29, 2022

Committee Name: Temperance Committee

Chair: Rev. Dr. Courtney Colleton

Reverends: Michael Young, Franklin Pruitt, Jr., Carroll Wells, Jr., Pearly Goodwin, Heyward Green, James Curenton Brothers: DeAutra Lee, Floyd Nelson, Jammie Hurley, Herbert McAllister, Roger Richburg. Sisters: Shirley Jefferson, Mattie Gordon, Bessie E. Williams, Janice Siebert, Mildred Rice, Roberta Gray, Carmella Powell

Report:

Temperance is a defined concept of moderation or restraint from unhealthy appetites or passions that destroys the fabric of the human experience. Once started as a religious movement back in the early 1800’s to destroy alcoholism and poverty temperance is a much needed practice in modern times. we continue living hard lives filled with division, alcoholism, mental illness, injustice, gender inequality, police brutality, poverty, and other issues plaguing our earthly home. Many of our complex issues can be traced to basic sins of human nature that God wishes for us to stay away from to live better lives. As Christian believers we use temperance to remain holy before the Lord and in good standing with humanity in every area of our lives. Practicing temperance requires a lifetime commitment to change through eliminating disorder and maintaining a regimen of spiritual disciplines.

Galatians 5:19 21 states we should abstain from the works of the flesh that consists of adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lewdness, idolatry, sorcery, hatred, contentions, jealousies, outbursts of wrath, selfish ambitions, dissensions, heresies, envy, murders, drunkenness, revelries, and the like. Persons who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God.

Temperance cannot be practiced effectively without spiritual disciplines. Spiritual disciplines are customs and experiences that aid us to develop certain qualities of Gods spirit within us and expand the breadth of one’s inner life. These disciplines are uniquely designed as structured “workouts” which train the soul. Consistent prayer, fasting, worshiping, serving, are identified as spiritual disciplines that lead us to be more like Jesus while becoming better Christians. 1Timothy 4:7, which says, “Discipline yourself for the purpose of godliness” (NASB). The goal is godliness, but the biblical means to that is to discipline yourself by the power of the Holy Spirit, rightly motivated. We are to discipline ourselves for the purpose of godliness. In closing temperance should be seen more than just a way to cut back from the ways of the world but see it as a new opportunity to allow Christ to work in us daily.

Recommendations: Every Christian believer should take a personal in depth assessment of their lives to determine if they are leading a life of temperance, by all practicing spiritual disciplines, eliminating disorder, and increasing healthy life habits for a lifetime.

Submitted

The Piedmont Annual Conference Temperance

Name of Annual Conference: Piedmont Annual Conference

Date: October 27 29, 2022

Committee Name: Christian Education

Chairs: Rev. James E. Speed, Sr.

Members: Reverends: Adam China, Furman Miller, Jr., Carroll Wells Jr., Harry Burns; Brothers: John Merrell, Sr. James Finley, Roger Richburg; Sisters: Renee Suber Kinard, Brenda Tolbert, Mary Tolbert, Charlene Reeder, Wanda Moore, and Charlene Louden

Report:

Christian Education is God’s vehicle to foster life long learning and discipleship. Jesus taught his disciples and commanded them to do likewise. Methods have changed since that day, but the objectives are the same, evangelize, educate and equip. Methods utilized in Christian Education are evolving constantly to meet the needs of those the church is trying reach.

The last two years have really put the faith of believers to the test. We found ourselves unable to worship in our traditional ways. As a result, we have had to be innovative and deliberate in finding ways to stay connected spiritually. The church is being forced to look at its standard modes of operation and make the necessary changes in order to move forward.

Just as worship service has changed, Christian Education can no longer be contained to our four walls and religious affiliations! We must embrace technology to serve the present age our calling to fulfill. We have a charge to keep and a God to glorify!

In accordance with words of the hymn, A Charge to Keep and the Great Commission, the Christian Education Committee makes the following recommendations:

● That every local church uses social medial platforms like Facebook, YouTube and Zoom to connect with believers that are outside of the local city, state, or even the country.

● Develop interactive and engaging Bible Study and church school lessons.

● Schedule weekly encouraging phone calls or zoom meetings.

● Develop creative ways to serve the needs of the community outside of the traditional four walls of the local church building.

Respectfully Submitted

The Piedmont Annual Conference Christian Education Committee

Name of Annual Conference: Piedmont Annual Conference

Date: October 27 29, 2022

Committee Name: Family Life

Chair: Rev. John W. Paul, Sr.

Members: Reverends: Rev. Sandra Smith, Rev. Annette Edwards, Rev. Jacqueline Aiken, Rev. Beverly Weaver, Bro. DeAutra Lee, Sr., Bro. Floyd Nelson, Bro Donald Moss, Sis. Eunice Turman, Sis. Bernadine Sheard, Sus. Ethelene Belcher, Sis. Jenell Ryan, Sis. Mattie D. Jackson, Sis. Kimberly Chamberlain, Sis. Mona Rogers

Report

During these most challenging times, families within the body of Christ are experiencing extreme, enigmatical forms of corporate worship, including in person, virtual, or hybrid services. Yet, families are divinely persuaded to spiritually commune with each other and increase their knowledge of the LORD. Confusion is at an all time high as COVID 19 induces confusion in every element of life from which the family receives instructions. Yet, without confusion, there will be no revelation of grace.

Grace is a gift from God that no one can obtain on their own (Ephesians 2:8 9). Genesis 6:8 states that “Noah found grace in the eyes of the Lord.” Moreover, Noah’s wife, three sons, and three daughters in law were also recipients of God’s gift, extended grace, through Noah’s faith. In the body of Christ, we must align ourselves to receive grace, reciprocating it by hearing and spreading the gospel of Jesus. When giving back, we seek that which is more valuable than money. “A good name is rather to be chosen than great riches, and loving favor rather than silver and gold (Proverbs 22:1)”

Noah was planted in the Will of the God and followed the God’s instructions. Noah and his family socially distanced themselves by staying in the ark, the only place where the Word was given. The Lord’s grace covered and protected Noah and his family, like wearing masks has covered us among the crowds. The scriptures provide limited chronicles inside the ark, but we know that Noah embraced God’s grace by listening and directing his family to abide within the Will of the Lord. Every opportunity we are given to hear the Lord’s voice, increases our knowledge of the Lord and Jesus, and our grace and peace is multiplied (2 Peter 1:2).” God is extending His grace to the family so we can give back our whole hearts.

Recommendations:

1) Develop A Family Prayer

2) Choose one day of the week for a family Bible Study

3) Choose one day from the end of each week Friday or Saturday to have a Family fun Night and Dinner (Bible Trivia Games. Bible Word Puzzles, and Bible Board Games}.

Respectfully Submitted

The Piedmont Annual Conference Family Life

Name of Annual Conference: Piedmont Annual Conference

Date: October 27 29, 2022

Committee Name: Lay Activities

Chairs: Brother James B. Tisdale, Jr.

Members: Brothers: Bruce L. Moore, Sr., Jody Harkness, Amos Wells,Jr., Larry Morris, Donald Moss, Frankie Jones; Sisters: Mary McCier, Jacqueline Goggins, Teresa Griffin, Ella Stroud, Lavonne Holloway, Frances Washington, Olar Barksdale, and Ann Marie Smith

Report:

We greet you in the name of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ! To God Be the Glory for allowing us to continue the work of the church during this Conference Year, especially in these challenging times!

The Conference Year began with the Piedmont Conference Lay Organization’s annual service of Rededication on Sunday, October 31, 2021, at 4:00 PM. The service was broadcasted via ZOOM and tele conference call from the “Place of Change” in Abbeville, SC. The Preacher for this service was Rev. Sandra Smith, Pastor of Mt. Vernon AMEC, Laurens, SC. Her message was based on the Connectional Lay Organization theme “ “Laity Walking Humbly with God to Do Justice and to Love Kindness.”

Bi monthly meetings were held in each Presiding Elder District and the Conference with the Districts alternating with the Conference. The Conference President attended the District bi monthly meetings along with the District Planning meetings and District Conferences in both Presiding Elder Districts giving Conference Concerns and Remarks at these events.

Sisters Lila Ray and Annie Tisdale represented the Conference in the Allen University Homecoming Parade in October 2021.

On Sunday, January 23, 2022, at 4:00 PM, the Abbeville/Greenwood Lay Organization held its annual Inspirational Service at the “Place of Change.” Rev. Lebbie Ligon, Pastor of Mt. Zion AMEC, McCormick SC, was the Preacher for this Service.

Fourteen members of the Piedmont Conference Lay Organization attended the SEDLO Retreat which was held in February in Myrtle Beach. Little Miss Danniyah Wharton of Mt. Carmel AMEC, Gray Court SC, represented the Conference in the “Little Allen Stars” Showcase. Her recitation was a Maya Angelou poem. During the Retreat, at Saturday evening’s “Touchdown Party,” Sister Lavonne Holloway of Mt. Zion AMEC, Laurens SC, won “Best Dressed” as she represented the Conference and her favorite team, the Pittsburg Steelers.

The name of our annual “Layshop” was changed this year to the “Brenda Holland Curry Layshop” in memory and honor of our past Conference President, Sister Brenda Holland Curry, who was also a Connectional Lay Organization officer. This event was held on Saturday, March 5th, via ZOOM. The following persons were presenters. Sister Lusylvia Glover, Rocky River AMEC, Antreville SC, gave a presentation on COVID. Her presentation included statistics and information concerning vaccinations and boosters. Sister Bessie Williams, Friendship AMEC, Clinton SC, and Brother Donald Moss, Springfield/Green Olive AMEC, McCormick SC, presented information on the Evangelism Initiative which is being sponsored by the Seventh Episcopal District. This presentation included information on how to evangelize to individuals. The “Layshop” ended with Rev. Heyward Green, Pastor of Mt. Zion AMEC, Laurens SC, bringing an inspirational message on how we as Lay persons must have faith, trust God, and work together as a team in order to be successful as an organization.

On Sunday, May 29th, 3:00 PM, we held our annual Combined Lay Day at Allen Chapel AMEC, Greenwood SC. Rev. Dr. Courtney Collenton, Pastor of St. James AMEC, Abbeville SC, was the preacher for this special service. Her subject was based on the new Connectional Lay Organization Theme, “Living a Global Ministry that Transforms, Transcends, and Liberates”. The service was broadcasted via ZOOM and tele conference call.

Nineteen persons were in attendance to the Seventh Episcopal District Lay Organization State Convention in June. Brother Tyrone Pahn, St. James AMEC, Abbeville SC, represented the conference in the Oratorical Contest. He was the 2nd place winner, receiving a scholarship in the amount of $1,500.00. Sister Lavonne Holloway, Mt. Zion AMEC, Laurens SC, representing the Greenville District, was the 1st runner up in the “Madame 7th Pageant” adult division. Sister Whitney Nicholson, Mt. Zion AMEC, Promised Land, representing the Abbeville/Greenwood District was crowned the “Madame 7th Young Adult Queen”.

The Greenville District Lay Organization sponsored two special scholarships to the “Richard Allen Scholarship Program” which was held on Saturday, June 25th at Poplar Spring AMEC, Laurens SC. The recipients were Seth Henderson, Pine Grove AMEC, Hodges SC, and Alexia Forsythe, Allen Temple AMEC, Greenville SC. Each student received a scholarship in the amount of $500.00.

As we close this report, we remember Sister Annie Nicholson, member of Bailey Bethel AMEC, Greenwood SC, who transitioned this Conference Year. Sister Nicholson captured many of our Lay Activities with her photogenic talents.

Recommendations:

1. We recommend that the Seventh Episcopal District develop a network for the purpose of continuing and improving communication between the churches, components, and members in the Episcopal District.

2. During this pandemic with the help of Almighty God, we have been able to continue our worship and the work of the church through the use of social media and social distancing (i.e., parking lot worship). We are still able to have Church School, Worship Service, Bible

Study, meetings of the church components (i.e., WMS, Lay, SOA, YPD), Episcopal District conventions, and our Annual Conferences. These events have been done efficiently and have been done in a timely manner. As we are returning to face to face gatherings, we are recommending that we continue to use practices that have helped us operate efficiently and safely during this time, especially in the area of time management. Based on the geographical layout of our Conference and the fact that a lot of our component meetings and functions are held at night, with mostly females traveling without male accompaniment, we are also recommending that the Virtual (ZOOM, etc.)/Tele Conference call platform be used as much as possible for the safety of our church members.

3. Statistical data shows that COVID 19 vaccinations and boosters are low for African Americans. As COVID 19 continues to be an issue and with the increase in cases with the new variants, we are recommending that persons who have not been vaccinated get vaccinated and those persons who have been vaccinated get the booster shots, especially persons in the younger generation, to help reduce the spread of the virus. We further recommend, that everyone should continue to follow the guidelines mandated by the Center for Disease Control social distancing, wearing masks, sanitizing hands and surfaces, etc.

Respectfully Submitted

The Piedmont Annual Conference Lay Activities

Name of Annual Conference: Piedmont Annual Conference

Date: October 27 29,2022

Committee Name: Women’s Missionary Society

Chair: Sister Belinda C. Adams

Members: Rev. Cornell Richardson, Jr. Sisters: Belinda C. Adams Chairperson, Twanna Scott, Veronna Stoddard, Macie Charlene Reeder, Evelyn Wardlaw, Bessie Williams, Brenda Foster, Pecolia Garrett, Adriann Williams, Victoria Anderson, Lilla Ray, Gwendolyn Alexander, Teresa Griffin, Elestine Norman, Sabrina Conner, Roberta Weathers, Chiquita Morris, Betty Dowdy, Mary E. Brown, Janie Aiken, Mary McCier, Margaret Wilson, Elizabeth Ann Hallums, Lusylvia Glover.

Report:

I will bless the Lord at all times, His praises shall continually be in my mouth!

Undeterred by continued COVID 19, other illnesses, deaths of loved ones, violence, and corruption, the members of the Piedmont Conference Women’s Missionary Society including our 14 Life Members, 35 Torchlighters and the Mighty Men of Missions praise God for a productive year in Mission. Our theme for this year is: “Missionaries: A Fresh Anointing to do God’s Will”, scripture reference Galatians 5:25, we prayed and asked God for a fresh anointing because we did not want to become stagnated, perplexed, or overwhelmed. Our prayers were answered, for we rose like the Phoenix and soared to get the mission work completed.

In addition to caring for the sick, providing for the homeless and assisting others in need, we offer praises and thanksgiving to God as we highlight some of our accomplishments:

● We continue to share Connectional and Episcopal projects and programs through Conference and Area Meetings, phone calls, emails and Zoom.

● We had representation at the Seventh Episcopal District Post Conference; the Connectional Executive Board Meeting in Atlanta, GA; representation at the 29th Annual SED WMS Retreat held in Myrtle Beach, SC, the SED God First Holy Convocation, representation at the Christian Education Leadership and Youth Congress Aspire 2022 and the Episcopal District YPD Retreat.

● We have met all appeals from the Connectional and Episcopal levels.

● We have been focusing on Moms Demand Action (Gun Violence Prevention Awareness): WMS Members’ interaction in this most worthwhile effort continued as members participated via Zoom and with pictures in their orange attire. We continue to bring awareness to this movement for public safety measures that can protect people from gun violence.

● Moms in Prayer: Through leadership from the Episcopal, Conference and Area, members of the Piedmont Conference WMS have developed 11 prayer groups as we pray for our children’s safety in school, the faculty and administration.

● We partnered with the SC Department of Aging to provide education and training for caregivers who are caring for patients with dementia ways to take care of themselves the “Powerful Tools for Caregivers”. So far, over 15 caregivers have received this training.

● We continue to maintain the website (piedmontconferencewms.com) and the Conference WMS Facebook page recognizing Life Members, Torchlighters and Officers birthdays, announcing scheduled meetings, etc.

● Partnered and distributed/donated over 75 electric box fans and monies to Department of Health and Human Services Community Long Term Care, United Ministries, Salvation Army, and Assurance Healthcare. We shared the warmth and light by donating over 75 bags containing gloves, blankets, lap throws, hats, scarves, flashlights, socks, and God’s Word to homeless shelters across the Conference. We made and donated 18 no sew blankets to Davita Dialysis Center in Abbeville.

● Donated funds to Plant Your Feet Non profit organization that assist discharged individuals from correctional institutions with a new start and donated summer clothing for children in Foster Care through the Laurens County DSS “Christmas in June” project.

● Partnered with Compassion International and supported Daniel from Brazil and Lele in Haiti with sending cards.

● Continue to support and maintain membership with Connectional Foundation Board reporting over 200 memberships.

● Participated in activities related to World Aid’s Day, National Day of Prayer, Domestic Violence Awareness, Lupus Awareness, Breast Cancer Awareness, Adopt a Child/Classroom, Voter Registration, and volunteering with local Democratic Parties by attending meetings, writing post cards for candidates and fund raising.

●

and contributed

to the following:

● Organized and directed a virtual Officers’ Training and Development Institute, “The Many Faces of Missionaries”. Workshops were held on A Heart for Missions, Constitution Update, and Becoming Technology Savvy.

● Recognized the 2022 Gem of Love Recipient, Sister Agnes Lomax, Mt. Lebanon AMEC, for thirty (30) years of continuous service. Local President Award Sisters Annette Jackson and Margie Olewunne. Unsung Heroine Award Sisters Ella Stroud and Adriann Williams.

● Sister Chiquita Morris, 3rd Vice President and the YAMS maintained contact with Life Members, Torchlighters and other seniors during the pandemic through telephone calls, sending inspirational cards, and baskets.

● Women’s History Month Recognition: Health Sisters; Leslie Wright, St. Paul Cokesbury; Shedra McGrier, St. Paul Cokesbury. Human Services Sisters Patricia Yeldell, Mt. Zion McCormick AME, Bennetta Harris, Mt. Zion PL AME, Denise Miller, St. Paul Cokesbury, Deborah Gray, Bethel AME Anderson. Education Sisters Glynda Bryson, Shady Grove AME; Peggy Cannon, Mt. Zion PL AME; Clara Young, Friendship AME; Dora Evans, Allen Temple AME. Literary/Creative Arts Sisters Elizabeth Ann Hallums, Allen Temple AME, Charelene Holback, St. James AME. Humanitarian Extraordinaire Award (over 90 years old) Sisters Rosa Epps, Mt. Carmel AME and Effie Spearman, Allen Chapel AME.

● Conducted annual Missionary Day programs to inform and inspire sisters and brothers to become active members of the WMS.

Recommendations:

●

To continue to communicate and expound on programs, projects, policies from the Connectional and Episcopal levels (Angel Tree Project, Food Banks, Allen University).

● To enhance, identify, develop, and expand outreach ministries and programs of service that respond in faith to issues affecting families/communities.

● To continue to solicit more groups for the Moms in Prayer initiative. Prayer changes things.

● To continue to promote gun violence awareness through Moms Demand Action.

● To provide for membership, to nurture, mentor and strengthen the bonds of Christian sisterhood in the Piedmont Conference WMS and YPD Organization.

My Sisters and Brothers in Missions, because of the fresh anointing, the Piedmont Conference WMS WILL CONTINUE TO SOAR IN MISSIONS!

Respectfully

The Piedmont Annual Conference Women’s Missionary Society

Name of Annual Conference: Piedmont Annual Conference

Date: October 27 29, 2022

Committee Name: Young People’s and Children’s Division

Chair: Veronna G. Stoddard

Members: Shirley Jefferson, Cynthia Wideman, Area directors; Elaine Kennedy, Sis Mary Wideman, Kimberly Chamberlain, Marcia Leake, Sabrina Conner, Chiquitta Morris, Local directors; Sis. Faith Miller, Deliyah Tillman, Amania Steward, Bro. Jalyn Long, and Tyron Pahn, Conference YPD officers.

Report

Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor: If either of them falls down, one can help the other up. But pity anyone who falls and has no one to help them up. Ecclesiastes 4:9 10

“L’s”

Goal and Objective: Continuous training in AME Church and YPD leadership. Develop skills in mission work.

Accomplishments: The Piedmont Conference YPDers continue to participate in virtual meetings. To continue their mission outreach Piedmont Conference YPDers with porch visits, telephone calls, emails, and text. Training in evangelizing the Piedmont Conference YPD officers developed exciting spiritual impact moments. The programs opened opportunities in faith readiness. Conference officers developed games on AME History, Know Your Church and Bible Trivia.

MLK, Jr. Day of Service

The Piedmont Conference YPD MLK, Jr. Day of Service was redirected because of inclement weather and power outages. With cellphones in hand, Piedmont Conference youth called to check on senior members of their churches, and neighborhood. Later in the week when it was safe, youth cleaned yards, delivered food to families that needed food and drove seniors to the store and to the pharmacy. They worked the food pantry and soup kitchens.

SOUPER BOWL of CARING

The youth of the Piedmont Conference collected over 150 non perishable items and monetary gifts totaling $1873.00. The donations were distributed to Backpack Ministries, Meg’s House, Etsell’s Way, Meals on Wheels, Second Harvest Gold Food, Bridge the Gap, soup kitchens, and needy families.

The SED YPD Retreat

The Piedmont Conference youth from 2 to 26 were excited to attend our in person Seventh Episcopal District Annual YPD Retreat, “The Education of Self” # Worthy on March 11 13, 2022. The in person retreat gave us a weekend of dynamic speakers, fun activities and our officers worked hard with the executive board on retreat activities. Faith Miller gave us energizers between sessions. During Saturday night’s talent show Mekhi Young brought down the house with his beautiful song. Proud families watched the high school graduates: Bro Tyron Pahn,

Chaela Moore, Jaida Freeman and college graduates Faith Miller and Jalyn Long. Mt Zion AMEC in Promiseland, Poplar Springs AME in Laurens, and Mt. Zion AMEC, McCormick received awards.

Self-Denial Winners

The Piedmont Conference Allen Stars artistic expressions and musical expression of “clean hands” accepting the call when it comes.

New Bethel Bailey Bethel Mt. Carmel Nevaeh C. Moultrie 9 Kaziah J Harrison 7 Mekhi Young 15 Aria M Harrison 8

Achaiah O Harrison 10

Connectional YPD Leadership Training Institute

The Connectional YPD Leadership Training Institute was experienced for the first time by Tyron Pahn, first vice president of the Piedmont Conference, and Jalyn Long, 7th Episcopal district financial secretary. They participated in the training sessions and graduation.

Annual YPD Meeting

Although many students returned to school in July, the Area Directors were able to give their end of year reports at this meeting.

Rev. Beatrice O. Coleman Summer Reading

You can travel anywhere in the world through books and with the pandemic keeping us home the 40 youth of the Piedmont read over 650 books. Each youth received a gift card for school supplies.

Summary of Additional Accomplishments/ Participations:

YPD

Tour of Greenville Area Churches

Assisted Living and Elite Adult Day

Back to school session Prayer

Foundation

The Young People's and Children's Division makes the following recommendations:

Continued training in evangelism.

Provide opportunities for young people to enjoy the study of the Bible, AME Church, and Black History.

Emphasize that everyone can be a servant leader.

Respectfully Submitted

The Piedmont Annual Conference Young People's and Children's Division

Name of Annual Conference: Piedmont Annual Conference

Date: October 27 29,2022

Committee Name: Sons of Allen

Chair: Reverend Melton Aiken

Members: Rev. John Booker, Bro. Kelly Brownlee, Bro. Charles Hunter, Bro. Sammy Drennon and Bro. Solomon Hampton.

Report:

We give praises to God who has smiled on us for the works he has allowed to be done by the Sons of Allen from all two districts. Beginning with the Greenville District, they continue to meet on each month whether it was in person or teleconference. Their highlights were:

1. Supported two families that were burned out.

2. Gave school supplies to students returning to school.

3. They gave a 700.00 dollar scholarship to a young man in the Greenville District Scholarship Fund.

4. Donated 150.00 to one of the small Churches in the District.

5. Had a one night revival fellowship.

Reporting from the Abbeville/Greenwood District. We met on some occasions but not each month. We still handled our business through word of mouth and teleconference as needed. We were blessed to have our usual One Night Revival and Rededication Service held at Flat Rock A.M.E. Church Antreville S.C. Our Sons of Allen Choir Anniversary was held at the Western Chapel A.M.E. Greenwood S.C. We supported the Mt. Pleasant A.M.E. Church in Clinton for a one day get together with various choirs and prayer groups. We gave a program honoring one of our brothers who passed away and had been an outstanding Sons of Allen Member and church Trustee. We also lost our newest member in a car accident within the last month of this writing. God knows what’s best for us, but we miss them both. Sickness and age are affecting a lot of our men in our groups, and the young males are not in church to recruit as it was once. We are not putting it all on the Pandemic, but we stress that if we can help bring just one into the fold, then we are doing the work of The Sons of Allen. We had a wonderful time at the Sons of Allen Retreat. It was special because it was our first in person program since the Covid 19. We thank and praise God for all he has done and all he has lets us do for Kingdom Building.

Recommendations:

1. Continue to follow the Seventh District Leadership guidelines for Covid 19.

2. Get involved in modern technology (zoom, conference calls, live streaming).

3. Stay in touch with our members and recruit new members.

4. Most of all continue put Jesus in all we do and pray.

Respectfully Submitted

The Piedmont Annual Conference Sons of Allen

Name of Annual Conference: Piedmont Annual Conference

Date: October 27 29, 2022

Committee Name: Women In Ministry

Chair: Reverend Dr. Aungeto Sigman

Members: Presiding Elder Judy Richardson; The Reverends Jacqueline Aiken; Pamela Aiken; Katherine Allen; Jennifer Brown; JoAnn Burton; Krystal Bryant; Natasha Calhoun; Marlene Calloway; Annette Edwards; Mary Elmore; Marilynn Galbreath; Pearly Goodwin; Sallie Joe; Lebbie Ligon; Betty Martin; JoAnne McIntosh; Carnetta Morton; Melody Morton; Beulah Reagins; Leatrice Annette Thomas; Eddie Lee Thompson; Helen Washington; Beverly Weaver; and Sarah Williams.

Report:

By the grace of God, the Piedmont Conference Women in Ministry (WIM) had a productive year fulfilling the mission to serve, to encourage, and to support the work of women in Christian ministry. Therefore, the Piedmont Conference WIM continued with the theme, “I Am My Sister’s Keeper”. We committed ourselves to being more intentional in our support and encouragement for one another. We are thankful to be able to continue to provide a love offering to both the WIM and Associates who were ill, hospitalized, had medical procedures, or caring for a spouse.

The first program of the conference year allowed us to celebrate with our Jarena Lee recipient, Reverend Beulah Reagins, who has been a trailblazer since the 1990s in the Piedmont Conference. For the holidays, Piedmont Conference WIM not only supported families in a local domestic violence shelter, but we also shared gifts with one another as “Secret Santas”.

In February, the Piedmont Conference WIM submitted the names and biographies of 6 women to be recognized by the Connectional WIM’s HERstory committee.

● Presiding Elder Judy Richardson, Greenville District

● Rev. Dr. Aungeto D.L. Sigman, Greenville District

● Rev. Lebbie Ligon, Abbeville-Greenwood District

● Rev. Jennifer Brown, Abbeville-Greenwood District

● Rev. Melody Morton, Abbeville-Greenwood District

● Rev. Annette Edwards, Abbeville-Greenwood District

From May to August, we were blessed to celebrate with four members of the Piedmont Conference WIM who earned certificates or degrees.

● Sister Sherry T. Williams, Certificate in Theology, Allen University

● Sister Eunice Turman, Associate of Arts in Biblical Studies, Lancaster Bible College

● Rev. Mary Elmore, Master of Divinity Degree, Dickerson-Green Theological Seminary

● Rev. Leatrice Annette Thomas, Master of Divinity Degree, Dickerson-Green Theological Seminary

Recognizing the power of prayer, we have remained faithful to our monthly prayer call for the Piedmont Conference WIM. We have gathered in prayer on the first day of each

month since February 2020 at 6:00 AM to pray for our ministries, families, all churches, leadership, the state, and country. These calls have expanded with more participation from our Associates and laity in the Piedmont Conference and throughout the state. We know that God is able! For the second year, we hosted our weekly Lenten services and the 7 Last Sayings on Zoom with participation and support from Presiding Elders Judy Richardson and Derrick Scott, WIM, Associate members, and laity. Our work extended beyond the Piedmont Conference as we supported the ministry of the Seventh Episcopal District WIM, including an offering for Allen University.

We, the Piedmont Conference WIM, are looking expectantly for what God has in store for us as we move forward in Kingdom Building. God has blessed us tremendously during a pandemic, so we are excited for what God has in store for the new conference year. But, as it is written, “What no eye has seen, nor ear heard, nor the human heart conceived, what God has prepared for those who love him” (I Cor. 2:9 NRSV).

Recommendations:

1. Increase opportunities for fellowship, unity, and encouragement for the Women in Ministry.

2. Continually encourage women who are in ministry to be active participants in the Women in Ministry.

3. Support and aid the Women in Ministry pursuing undergraduate and graduate degrees.

4. Select members of the Women in Ministry, who have served at least 5 years, to mentor women appointed to their first pastoral assignment.

5. Continually encourage the increase in and active participation of associate membership.

6. Share our activities with the Connectional Church by submitting articles to The Connectional Women in Ministry Newsletter and The Christian Recorder.

Respectfully submitted

The Piedmont Annual Conference Women In Ministry

Name of Annual Conference: Piedmont Annual Conference

Date: October 27 29,2022

Committee Name: Young Adult Ministry

Chair: Reverend Dr. Courtney Colleton

Members: Reverends Michael Young, Ricardo Herriott, Joann McIntosh, Cory A.E. McIntosh, Beverly Weaver: Brothers: Emmanuel Sellers, Brent Williams, De’Aundrea Lee, Cory McIntosh; Sisters: Lusylvia Glover, Contessa Tate, Taurus Aiken, Dawn Mills, Dawn Evans, Amy Aiken, and Whitney Nicholson

Report:

As Young Adults we have been challenged to serve God outside of the traditional norms of society to manifest effective ministry. Ministry requires us to become more like Christ through our actions that eradicate issues that plague our jobs, homes, churches, and communities. We have chosen to take a stand against gun violence, food insecurities and educational disparities to dismantle oppressive systems against God’s creation.

Gun violence has created relentless destruction in our local communities and echoes a hallowing clear message that no one wins when it comes to gun violence. Gun violence is an ongoing public health crisis in the United States that impacts lives. According to data released by Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than 45,000 people died by gun violence in the U.S. and was the leading cause of death among children and teens in 2020. As young adults entering parenthood and establishing legacies, we need to start voting for leaders that will incorporate policy solutions acknowledging the lethality of firearms and address their availability, especially among those at an elevated risk for suicide or interpersonal violence. One death is too many and with these statistics should help sound the alarm for all of us to hear this state of emergency.

The aftermath of Covid 19 continues to show us as humanity how precious life is and how hard it become to sustain it. Food insecurity is steady on the rise and our African American, elderly, and differently able communities are hit the hardest. 19 million people, or roughly 6% of the population, currently lives in a food desert and lacked access to receiving quality food according to the USDA. People who are food insecure are disproportionally affected by diet sensitive chronic diseases such as diabetes and high blood pressure, and other adverse effects to our overall health. Young adults are choosing to fight back by starting blessing boxes in local communities, volunteering at food banks and find creative strategies to make sure that we have fed the hungry just as Christ has done for us.

We understand there are so many issues that plague our society but to find a better way we all must work together. Collaborative ministry illuminates our spiritual blueprint and suggests that we can reclaim souls, rebuild communities, redefine the family structure, challenge educational systems, dismantle flawed structures, fight for justice, and ultimately glorify God. Truly we are grateful for the vision of our Bishop Samuel L. Green Sr., Episcopal Supervisor Sis. Phyllis N. Green, and the entire 7th Episcopal Leadership Team that has shown us a model of what this could look like in our local churches. If we practice this model, then our future would be bright with a legacy for everyone.

Respectfully Submitted

The Piedmont Annual Conference Young Adult Ministry

Name of Annual Conference: Piedmont (SC) Annual Conference

Date: October 27 29, 2022

Committee Name: Church School

Chair. Reverend Sarah E. Williams

Members: Reverends: Sarah E. Williams, James Brownlee, George Oliver, L. Annette Thomas: Brothers: Kenneth Brownlee, Donald Moss, Robert Duncan: Sisters: Carmella Powell, Eunice Turman, Johnnie Thompson, Mildred Rice, Deidre Moore

Report:

Church School, often referred to as Sunday School, plays a vital role as an evangelism tool for the local church. Many of the fondest memories of people, when they talk about their earlier experiences with church, hinge on the insights gained from their Sunday school teacher(s). Many of the hymns, Bible verses and church etiquette were taught in Church School. Dedicated, spirit filled, creative, and God fearing teachers who dearly loved children were those who were recruited to teach the youth classes.

Times have changed; and so, must our ways of using church school effectively to point students of all ages to Christ. Teachers, more than ever, must have a hunger and thirst for knowledge, and use technology when teaching and preparing lessons. Those teachers who still feel uncomfortable using technology have children or grandchildren who have extensive computer skills that they will share. With the pandemic, church school has not been held in a typical classroom in the church building as usual.

Technology has been used extensively Zoom, Live Streaming, Facebook, U tube and other platforms to allow teachers to keep Church School alive. Many old ways have been abandoned and teachers have developed new attitudes, interactive virtual lessons classes in the parking lot of the church, etc. that have kept the participants eager to see what was coming next. We have only just begun!

In accordance with the fact that Church School is a vital tool for church evangelism, the Church School Committee recommends that each local church:

Recommendations:

1. Recruit dedicated, spirit filled teachers with a zeal for teaching and learning.

2. Demonstrate from both the pulpit and the pew the belief that church school is a necessary tool for the spiritual growth of the church.

3. Use conference calls, Zoom, Duo, as well as other technology to engage multi generations.

4. Enroll church school teachers in virtual conferences, workshops, etc., to help them feel comfortable using technology.

5. Recruit youth in the church to teach computer skills to adults needing help.

Respectfully Submitted

The Piedmont Annual Conference Church School

Name of Annual Conference: Piedmont Annual Conference

Date: October 27 29, 2022

Committee Name: Prison Ministry

Chair: Rev. Jennifer G. Brown

Members: Reverends: Gregory Singleton, Billy Cleveland, Jacqueline Aiken, James Curenton; Brothers: Jacory Cleveland, Roger Richburg; Sisters: Gladys Long, Mattie Gordon, Janice Sibert, and Theodora Williams

Report:

The churches of the Piedmont Annual Conference endeavor to engage in and develop prison ministries that will fulfill the will of Christ and perform the mission of our church.

Matthew 25:36 ‘’I was naked and you clothed me. I was sick and you visited me. I was in prison and you came to me.”

The Piedmont Conference had the opportunity to provide hygiene items to the Leath Correctional Institution for women, in Greenwood, SC. We were able to not only provide these items for 348 inmates, but we had the opportunity to personally offer words of encouragement.

Other churches have provided assistance on a monthly basis. The Greenville District provided inmates a luncheon at this same facility. Other churches have written letters of recommendation for inmates seeking to be paroled. School supplies and monetary support have been provided to families of inmates.

Recommendations:

1. Congregations continue to provide support for our sisters and brothers who are housed in correctional institutions.

2. Congregations go to the imprisoned to reach our population, that is beyond the walls of our sanctuaries, by way of Bible instruction and inspiration.

3. Provide training to congregations who might be reluctant and fearful of ministering to those who are incarcerated.

4. Find ways to help those released from prisons to be reintegrated into society.

Respectfully Submitted

The Piedmont Annual Conference Prison Ministry

Name of Annual Conference: Piedmont Annual Conference

Date: October 27 29, 2022

Committee Name: Hospital Ministry

Chair: Rev. Clifford Jackson

Members: Rev. Marilynn Galbreath, Rev. Barry Leverette, Rev. Beatrice O. Coleman, Rev. Sarah E. Williams, Bro. James Quarles, Bro. John Merrill, Sr., Bro. Bernard Wideman, Sis. Roberta Weathers, Sis. Clara Carpenter, Sis. Janell Ryan, Sis. Diane Anderson, Sis. Bessie E. Williams, Sis Pauline Thomas, Sis. Teresa Griffin.

Report:

The Hospital Ministry extends beyond the walls of our places of worship and enters into institutions of healing. When we go to the hospital to visit a congregant, we are following in the footsteps of Jesus, who spent much of His time ministering to the sick. Church members do not appreciate pastors who fail to visit them, when they are sick!

Visitors should check with facilities regarding their policies and procedures, before visiting, and follow all of the safety guidelines for the protection of patients, staff, and visitors. Hospital visits should be done during normal visitation hours or at a time that has been agreed upon with the patient and/or family. Visits should be short; no longer than fifteen minutes. Our demeanor should be courteous and professional. We should dress appropriately and the words we speak should bring comfort and hope.

Understanding the importance of hospital visitation to congregants is crucial. In a time when the emphasis seems more focused on ministering to the crowds, we cannot forget the individual person. Our best spiritual work is often done in these one on one settings.

Prayer is one of our greatest tools. In The Art of Ministering to the Sick, Cabot and Dicks remind us that “prayer is the greatest single method in working with the sick.” We should not assume that everyone wants prayer. We should politely ask if we could pray with patients and respect their wishes. While we are called to serve, we are also called to listen. Listening allows the patient/member to express his/her fears, concerns, and wishes, and it helps us understand who and where they are, as we seek to provide comfort and encouragement. Often, it is spiritual healing that the patient needs most. As we visit the hospital patient, we are the most important part of the healing team.

Recommendations:

1. Establish relationships between the medical profession, clergy, and congregation.

2. Provide workshops on hospital visitation, as well as other healthcare facilities.

3. Encourage the pursuit of the Chaplaincy Ministry and participation with various healthcare volunteer organizations

Respectfully Submitted

The Piedmont Annual Conference Hospital Ministry

Name of Annual Conference: Piedmont Annual Conference

Date: October 27 29, 2022

Committee Name: Memorials

Chair: Reverend Reginald C. Morton

Members: Reverends Lebbie L. Ligon, Willie E. Rice, Arthur Raven, Julius Crawford, Melody Morton; Brothers: Wesley Pinkett, Floyd Nelson; Sisters: Edna Richardson, Carolyn Chiles, Kimberly Chamberlain, and Diane Anderson

Report:

During this past conference year, our Heavenly Father has extended His grace and mercies unto us by allowing the death angel to pass over the pastors and ministers of the Piedmont South Carolina Annual Conference. However, we would like to remember Reverend Minnie Shell, Local Elder of the Greenville District, and Reverend J.J. Robinson, Superannuated Elder of the Greenville District. Reverend Shell and Reverend Robinson have been called from labor to reward. They represented us well in our conference. May we thank God for their many years of dedicated services. Praise God from whom all blessings flow. May we now pause for a moment of silence to thank God for His comfort and peace.

Recommendation:

We offer a motion for the adoption of this Memorial Report and that a copy is placed in the official records of the 112th Session of the Piedmont South Carolina Annual Conference.

Respectfully Submitted,

The Piedmont Annual Conference Memorials

Name of Annual Conference: Piedmont Annual Conference

Date: October 27 29,2022

Committee Name: Christian Debutante Master Commission (CDMC)

Chair: Whitney Nicolson

Members: Rev Reginald Morton, Cheryl Pinckney, Carmella Powell, & Rev. Carnetta Morton

Name of Annual Conference: Piedmont Annual Conference Report:

Praise God from whom ALL blessings flow!! It is our pleasure and God given honor to express our sincerest gratitude to Bishop Samuel L. Green Sr., and Supervisor Phyllis N. Green for the wonderful opportunity to serve our first year as Commissioner and Associate Commissioner. We also would like to thank our Presiding Elders, Area & Local Commissioners, Parents, Grandparents, and Guardians for your dedication and hard work. The commitment and assistance you have shown to us during this challenging period of life have helped us succeed in meeting all requirements and deadlines. To God be the glory for the great and marvelous things He has done!

The Piedmont Conference Christian Debutante Master Commission introduces young people to Christian society and celebrates their transition to adulthood. We present the following highlights for 2022.

● Five Participants will be presented in the 2022 CDMC Class.

● Debutantes and Masters have shared in community service projects while meeting the needs of others by donating essential items to our local nursing homes.

● We shared in a virtual spiritual development seminar.

Recommendations:

● Continue to offer social distancing activities for our young people.

● Continue to utilize Zoom for monthly meetings; thus, reserving face to face meeting for workshops and seminars.

● Encourage and inspire all Churches and organizations to support the CDMC ministry even if they don’t have participants.

● Continue to be intentional in exposing our youth to ideas, values and Christian principles that fosters Kingdom values.

● Strive to help our young people develop a sense of historical awareness, purpose, and appreciation for self.

● Continue to encourage our youth to explore the biblical concepts of unconditional love, compassion, and commitment.

Respectfully Submitted,

The Piedmont Annual Conference CDMC Commissioner/Associate Commissioner

Name of Annual Conference: Piedmont Annual Conference

Date: October 27 29,2022

Committee Name: MSWAWO+Pks

Chair: Sister Debra Speed

Members: Piedmont Conference MSWAWO+Pks

Report:

I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory about to be revealed to us. (Romans 8:18 NRSV)

Greetings to the Piedmont Annual Conference, another year and Covid is still here. All praises to Our God, so are we! With God’s help, we have endured and persevered these trying times. Covid has let us see the ability of what we are capable of doing. It has not changed, but our attitude and actions toward Covid has. My favorite poet, Maya Angelou said,” If you don’t like something, change it. If you can’t change it, Change your Attitude.” The Clergy Families of the Precious Piedmont continue to support our Spouses in doing the work they were called to do to build and uplift God’s Kingdom and for the African Methodist Episcopal Church.

Advance technology has allowed us to be creative and communicate in ways we could not have imagined in prior years. We have utilized conference calls, zoom, text, emails, and google duo just to name a few.

After Annual Conference in October, 2021, many of the Spouses headed to Florence, SC, for our Post Planning Meeting in November. At the Connectional Virtual Planning Retreat on December 4, 2021, yours truly was elected to the office of Treasurer for the Connectional M SWAWO+PKS. Our March meeting was a Meet and Greet via zoom. Games were played and prizes won. New pastors and spouses introduced themselves. A lot of laughter and fun was had by all. We attended our Annual SED M SWAWO + PKS Retreat via zoom where several of our PKs were recognized for promotions and graduations. Spouses’ anniversaries were recognized, and our very own, Rev. Annette Edwards gave her testimony on her experience and recovery with Covid. What a mighty God we serve! Our Spouses were in attendance at the Holy Convocation. Some attended the Virtual Connectional M SWAWO+PKS Family Breakfast on June 25, 2022. Congratulations to Rev. and Mrs. Adam China, on their wedding in July 2022. We welcome Sister Patrice Bryant China to the organization with open arms.

While in Greenville, SC, at Aspire in August 2022, the Spouses of the Piedmont had the opportunity to ESCAPE to ROOMS (a fun game).

This year our Outreach was a luncheon and presentations to OUR widows and widowers. Our year ended with fun and fellowship at our “Annual Gathering.”

We thank God we had No Spouses to transition to their heavenly home this conference year.

Thank you, Bishop Sam and Supervisor Phyllis for your leadership and encouragement. As we continue to support and uplift each other, we pray for God’s strength when we get tired, His patience, when we need it, and His guidance to do ministry that is pleasing in His sight. The

Piedmont Conference M SWAWO+PKS will continue to support our Spouses in building and uplifting the work of God’s Kingdom and the African Methodist Episcopal Church.

RECOMMENDATIONS

1. Encourage new ideas for VIRTUAL participation.

2. Increase membership New Member Kit.

3. More inclusive events with our retired and widowed Spouses.

4. Workshops addressing stress/more New Spouses/Seasoned Spouses discussions.

Implement more Bonding Events.

6. Continue to pray for strength, peace, and endurance as we love, respect, teach and learn from each another on this Christian journey.

Respectfully Submitted,

The Piedmont Annual Conference MSWAWO+Pks

Name of Annual Conference: Piedmont (SC) Annual Conference

Date: October 27 29, 2022

Committee Name: Class Leaders

Chair: Sister Victoria Anderson

Members: Reverends: Michael Young, Paul N. Wharton Sisters: Victoria Anderson, and Jackie Rapp

Report:

“Let us all go back to the old landmark and we will stay in the service of the Lord.” The 2021 2022 conference year served as a revival of sort as we returned to the old landmark of CLASS LEADERS. The Class leader system has long served as a landmark in the African Methodist Episcopal Church. While we had not lost sight of the landmark, our vision had become somewhat dimmed. Our roots were reclaimed, our zeal renewed, our passion proclaimed as we resolved to fully focus on the return to the Class Leader system.

With strict adherence to the Doctrine and Discipline of the African Methodist Episcopal Church, 2016 version, pages 90 91, outlines were proposed for training and presentations. The scriptural foundation was Ephesians 4:12: “For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ.” The training to all members was presented during the District conference. The subjects included the purpose the class prevents members from being obscure and lost in the crowd as class leaders serve as mini pastors. The composition of the class and the annual appointment of class leaders by the pastors was reviewed.

The duties of class leaders were discussed in great detail. Duties include regular meetings with members, inquires of how each soul prospers, visits to homes when appropriate. Leaders are to report to the pastor and official board those who are sick, walk disorderly, deaths and monies that are offered for the Gospel. Tips were outlined for hospital visits as we continue in the pandemic era, caution must be exercised, and safety practiced in all situations.

COVID still has a stranglehold on many activities. However, with God’s protection, class leaders are able to continue the work with proper precautions. It is vital to the church to maintain an even more enhanced contact with all members. A smile that someone can see from 6 feet away, goes farther than written words behind a computer. As class leaders, be willing to be led by the greatest leader of all, Jesus the Christ, for he is the TEACHER and we are the student, as we return to the old landmark and then do the service of the Lord as class leaders.

Recommendations:

1. Continue to strengthen the Class leader system with regular training sessions

Increase visibility of the class leaders

Class leaders show a genuine concern and care for the members

Respectfully Submitted

The Piedmont Annual Conference Class Leaders

Name of Annual Conference: Piedmont Annual Conference

Date: October 27 29, 2022

Committee Name: Ministerial Efficiency

Chair: Rev. James E. Speed, Sr.

Members: Rev. Jennifer G. Brown, Rev. Gregory E. Singleton, Paul Wharton, Pamela Aiken

Report:

To be reported live during the Piedmont Annual Conference.