Monday, April 07, 2008

Greater Cleaves goes 'old fashion' for Black History Month 
Oklahoma City, OK—Sister Carolyn Harris coordinated the Black History month celebration at Greater Cleaves, under the direction of Pastor Bobby R. Best.
The 2008 Black History month's theme was, "The Origin of Multiculturalism." The main effort was to show that multiculturalism of today had its origin in the struggles of African Americans to have their cultural contributions recognized by American society. In breaking through the monocultural vision of America, African Americans were at the foundation of multiculturalism in America. With acceptance of Black people and black culture, other cultures found a way of gaining acceptance, as prefaced by Sister Harris.
Each Sunday during the month of February, a Black History Trivia form was placed in the church bulletin. The insert consisted of trivia questions regarding Black's contributions to American society. Church members had the opportunity to take the trivia question home and return the completed form with the correct answers the following Sunday, The winner from the previous Sunday was announced during the 11 AM service and received a $10 gift certificate.
Inspirational speakers were chosen from the membership not to exceed 10 minutes, focusing on the following topics:
The contribution of Blacks to the arts-Brother Johnny Swanson Men's Department
The contribution of Blacks to Health and Science-Brother Jeff Darby, Young Adult Department
The contribution of Blacks In Religion- Ishmail Parker, Youth Department.
The contribution of Blacks In Education- Dr. Mose Yvonne Hooks, Women's Department
The second Sunday in February was designated as African Dress Sunday. Members and visitors were encouraged to express their pride by dressing likewise.
The third Sunday of the month was the Ushers Annual Tea and Fashion show.
Fields to Factories Sunday was the culmination of the celebration. Members and visitors dressed in clothing that depicted the late 1800's - early 1900's. Old time items were displayed, items that were passed down by ancestors. A soul food dinner was served following the 11 service.
The Langston University Choral Choir, Langston, Oklahoma, under the direction of Ms. Bonita Franklin, accompanied by Mr. William Brackeen, was in concert, starting at 4 PM. A full meal was served to the choir following the concert. An information insert in the concert program gave brief commentaries on African American composers whose music or arrangements were used.
The pastor and membership applauded Sister Harris for a job well done and for the high quality of activities of the month. Rev. Dr. Bobby R. Best, pastor; Pearl Reese, reporter.

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