Passing of Mrs. Juanita Fuller, Aunt of Bishop Henry M. Williamson, Sr.
Dear Connectional Members and Friends,
The aunt of Bishop Henry M. Williamson, Sr., Mrs. Juanita Fuller of Gary, Indiana, passed last evening. Mrs. Fuller was the sister of Bishop Williamson’s mother, Mrs. Alma Carvin. She was a member of Israel CME Church in Gary, Indiana.
Funeral services will be held on Thursday, June 4, 2009, 11 AM, at Israel CME Church, 2301 Washington Street, Gary IN, 46407. Telephone: 219-883-3859 / Fax : 219-886-9860. Dr. Essie Clark-George, pastor.
Funeral arrangements will be coordinated by Smith, Bizzell & Warner Funeral Home, 4209 Grant Street, Gary IN, 46408. Telephone: 219 887-1852.
Please keep Bishop and Mrs. Williamson, Sr., Mrs. Alma Carvin, and the Fuller family in your prayers.
The 9th Episcopal District Office
Christian Methodist Episcopal Church
The Christian Index Online is a journaling of tidbits, news, musings and meanderings on the Christian Methodist Episcopal Church and its official publication by Editor Dr. Kenneth E. Jones.
Friday, May 29, 2009
Wednesday, May 27, 2009
Annual Conference and CME Events Schedule (update)
May 31–June 3, 2009: Northwest Texas Region Annual Conference, Holiday Inn, Lubbock, Texas.
June 14-18, 2009: Arkansas Region Annual Conference, Wyndam Hotel, North Little Rock, AR.
June 21-24, 2009: Southeast Texas Region Annual Conference, Houston Marriott North at Greenpoint; host churches, Beebe Tabernacle and Redeemed Chapel.
June 21-25, 2009: East & West Tennessee Annual Conference, Holiday Inn Select Hotel, Memphis, TN.
June 22-25, 2009: Arizona-New Mexico Region Annual Conference.
June 23-26, 2009: South Georgia Region Annual Conference, Hines Memorial CME Church, Albany, GA; Rev. Kenneth McMillian, host pastor.
June 28 – July 1, 2009: East Texas Region Annual Conference; Maude Cobb Convention Center, Longview, TX; host church, St. Mark, Longview, TX.
June 28-July 1, 2009: South Louisiana Region Annual Conference, Trinity CME Church, 315 Polk Street, Lafayette, LA (337) 234-1364, Rev. Leslie Dugas, pastor.
July 5-10, 2009: Kansas-Missouri Region Annual Conference, hosted by Cleaves Temple CME Church, Omaha, NE, Marriott Hotel and Resort, 10220 Regency Circle, Omaha, NE (402) 399-9000.
July 7-10, 2009: West Georgia Region Annual Conference, Hosley Chapel CME Church, Columbus, GA; Rev. Allen Page III, host pastor.
July 7-10, 2009: Florida Region Annual Conference, Carter Tabernacle CME, Orlando, FL.
July 12-15, 2009: Louisiana Region Annual Conference, Clarion Hotel, 1419 East 70th Street, Shreveport, LA 71108, Rev. Larry Anders, host pastor.
July 12-17, 2009: Michigan-Indiana Region Annual Conference, hosted by Grace CME Church, Detroit, MI.
July 12-17, 2009: Carolina Region Annual Conference, hosted by Russell Memorial CME Church -Durham, NC, Rev. Dr. Lloyd Watkins, pastor; Sheraton Hotel- Durham, NC.
July 14-17, 2009: Central Georgia Region Annual Confernece, Holiday Inn Conference Center, Macon, GA; Hosley Temple CME, host church; Rev. Durtis Russell, host pastor.
July 14-17, 2009: North Alabama Region Annual Conference, Bailey Tabernacle CME, Tuscaloosa, AL.
July 14-18, 2009: The Kentucky Region Annual Conference, Brown Memorial, Louisville, KY.
July 19-22, 2009: Central Texas Region Annual Conference; host church, St. James, Tyler.
July 19-22, 2009: Mississippi-South Region Annual Conference, hosted by Lynch Street CME, Rev. Dr. Charles Holbrook, pastor.
July 19th-24th, 2009: New York-Washington Region Annual Conference, hosted by St. Paul CME Church -Chester, PA; Rev. Aaron Donnelley, pastor; Doubletree Hotel- Wilmington, Delaware.
July 21-24, 2009: Georgia North Region Annual Conference, Sheraton Gateway Hotel, Atlanta, GA; Butler Street CME, host church, Dr. Anthony M. Alford, Sr., host pastor.
July 21-24, 2009: Southeast Alabama Region Annual Conference, St. Paul CME, Gordonville, AL.
July 26-29, 2009: Oklahoma Region Annual Conference.
July 26-29, 2009: North-East Mississippi Region Annual Conference, Bancorpsouth Conference Center, 387 W. Main Street, Tupelo, MS (662) 718-5555. Lodging, Hilton Garden Hotel, 363 E. Main Street, Tupelo, MS (662) 717-5500 or The Summit Hotel, 852 North Gloster Street, Tupelo, MS 38804 (602) 844-4343. Rev. Dr. Clementine Mays and Poplar Springs CME, hosting.
July 26-29, 2009: Dallas-Fort Worth Region Annual Conference; Hilton Garden Inn, Dallas/Duncanville; host church, Kirkwood Temple, Dallas
July 26-31, 2009: Southeast Missouri, Illinois, and Wisconsin Region Annual Conference, hosted by St. Matthew CME Church, Milwaukee, WI.
July 27-31, 2009: Birmingham Region Annual Conference, Southside CME Church, Birmingham, AL; Rev. Cheryl Goliday, pastor.
July 28-August 1, 2009: The Ohio-Central Indiana Region Annual Conference, Phillips Temple CME, Trotwwod, OH (Marriott Hotel, Dayton, OH).
August 9-12, 2009: Northern California Region Annual Conference.
August 23-26, 2009: Southern California Region Annual Conference.
September 19-24, 2009: The 23rd CME Convocation and the Connectional Lay Institute, Hyatt Hotel, St. Louis, MO.
October 21-23, 2009: One Church One School Annual Conference, Memphis Marriott, 2625 Thousand Oaks Blvd., Memphis, TN.
December 3-5, 2009: The 2nd Episcopal District Mid-Winter Council, Hotel Inn, Sharonville, OH.
June 21-24, 2009: Southeast Texas Region Annual Conference, Houston Marriott North at Greenpoint; host churches, Beebe Tabernacle and Redeemed Chapel.
June 21-25, 2009: East & West Tennessee Annual Conference, Holiday Inn Select Hotel, Memphis, TN.
June 22-25, 2009: Arizona-New Mexico Region Annual Conference.
June 23-26, 2009: South Georgia Region Annual Conference, Hines Memorial CME Church, Albany, GA; Rev. Kenneth McMillian, host pastor.
June 28 – July 1, 2009: East Texas Region Annual Conference; Maude Cobb Convention Center, Longview, TX; host church, St. Mark, Longview, TX.
June 28-July 1, 2009: South Louisiana Region Annual Conference, Trinity CME Church, 315 Polk Street, Lafayette, LA (337) 234-1364, Rev. Leslie Dugas, pastor.
July 5-10, 2009: Kansas-Missouri Region Annual Conference, hosted by Cleaves Temple CME Church, Omaha, NE, Marriott Hotel and Resort, 10220 Regency Circle, Omaha, NE (402) 399-9000.
July 7-10, 2009: West Georgia Region Annual Conference, Hosley Chapel CME Church, Columbus, GA; Rev. Allen Page III, host pastor.
July 7-10, 2009: Florida Region Annual Conference, Carter Tabernacle CME, Orlando, FL.
July 12-15, 2009: Louisiana Region Annual Conference, Clarion Hotel, 1419 East 70th Street, Shreveport, LA 71108, Rev. Larry Anders, host pastor.
July 12-17, 2009: Michigan-Indiana Region Annual Conference, hosted by Grace CME Church, Detroit, MI.
July 12-17, 2009: Carolina Region Annual Conference, hosted by Russell Memorial CME Church -Durham, NC, Rev. Dr. Lloyd Watkins, pastor; Sheraton Hotel- Durham, NC.
July 14-17, 2009: Central Georgia Region Annual Confernece, Holiday Inn Conference Center, Macon, GA; Hosley Temple CME, host church; Rev. Durtis Russell, host pastor.
July 14-17, 2009: North Alabama Region Annual Conference, Bailey Tabernacle CME, Tuscaloosa, AL.
July 14-18, 2009: The Kentucky Region Annual Conference, Brown Memorial, Louisville, KY.
July 19-22, 2009: Central Texas Region Annual Conference; host church, St. James, Tyler.
July 19-22, 2009: Mississippi-South Region Annual Conference, hosted by Lynch Street CME, Rev. Dr. Charles Holbrook, pastor.
July 19th-24th, 2009: New York-Washington Region Annual Conference, hosted by St. Paul CME Church -Chester, PA; Rev. Aaron Donnelley, pastor; Doubletree Hotel- Wilmington, Delaware.
July 21-24, 2009: Georgia North Region Annual Conference, Sheraton Gateway Hotel, Atlanta, GA; Butler Street CME, host church, Dr. Anthony M. Alford, Sr., host pastor.
July 21-24, 2009: Southeast Alabama Region Annual Conference, St. Paul CME, Gordonville, AL.
July 26-29, 2009: Oklahoma Region Annual Conference.
July 26-29, 2009: North-East Mississippi Region Annual Conference, Bancorpsouth Conference Center, 387 W. Main Street, Tupelo, MS (662) 718-5555. Lodging, Hilton Garden Hotel, 363 E. Main Street, Tupelo, MS (662) 717-5500 or The Summit Hotel, 852 North Gloster Street, Tupelo, MS 38804 (602) 844-4343. Rev. Dr. Clementine Mays and Poplar Springs CME, hosting.
July 26-29, 2009: Dallas-Fort Worth Region Annual Conference; Hilton Garden Inn, Dallas/Duncanville; host church, Kirkwood Temple, Dallas
July 26-31, 2009: Southeast Missouri, Illinois, and Wisconsin Region Annual Conference, hosted by St. Matthew CME Church, Milwaukee, WI.
July 27-31, 2009: Birmingham Region Annual Conference, Southside CME Church, Birmingham, AL; Rev. Cheryl Goliday, pastor.
July 28-August 1, 2009: The Ohio-Central Indiana Region Annual Conference, Phillips Temple CME, Trotwwod, OH (Marriott Hotel, Dayton, OH).
August 9-12, 2009: Northern California Region Annual Conference.
August 23-26, 2009: Southern California Region Annual Conference.
September 19-24, 2009: The 23rd CME Convocation and the Connectional Lay Institute, Hyatt Hotel, St. Louis, MO.
October 21-23, 2009: One Church One School Annual Conference, Memphis Marriott, 2625 Thousand Oaks Blvd., Memphis, TN.
December 3-5, 2009: The 2nd Episcopal District Mid-Winter Council, Hotel Inn, Sharonville, OH.
Monday, May 25, 2009
Candidates for Bishop Who Participated in the CYAM Forum
Group A – J.J. Jackson, Wayne Williams, Wendell Oldham, James Walker and Charles King
Group B - Robert Peoples, Shirley Fletcher, Anthony Alford, and Eddie Jumper
Group C - Darryll Coleman, Jerry Christian, Joseph Gardner, Tyrone Davis and Sylvester Williams
Group D - Willie Champion, Theresa Snorton, Johnnie Dollarhide, Manuel Henderson and Kenneth Jones
Group E - Bobby Best and Arthur Green
Group A – J.J. Jackson, Wayne Williams, Wendell Oldham, James Walker and Charles King
Group B - Robert Peoples, Shirley Fletcher, Anthony Alford, and Eddie Jumper
Group C - Darryll Coleman, Jerry Christian, Joseph Gardner, Tyrone Davis and Sylvester Williams
Group D - Willie Champion, Theresa Snorton, Johnnie Dollarhide, Manuel Henderson and Kenneth Jones
Group E - Bobby Best and Arthur Green
Thursday, May 21, 2009
Loss of Mrs. Ruby C. Smith
Dear Colleagues, Connectional Members, and Friends,
It is with deep regret to inform you that Mrs. Ruby C. Smith, the wife of retired Presiding Elder Rev. James E. Smith, Sr. of the Alaska-Pacific Region, and the mother of five children including the Rev. James E. Smith, Jr. of the Carolina Region, passed away on Monday, May 18, 2009.
Mrs. Smith was a faithful and devoted Christian, ministers’ spouse, mother, and grandmother. She served faithfully at Christ Temple Christian Methodist Episcopal Church in Tacoma Washington and at other churches where Rev. Smith pastored in the Ninth Episcopal District. The Smiths recently celebrated 54 years of marriage.
Funeral services for Mrs. Smith will be held on Friday, May 22, 2009, 1:00 p.m., at Curry Temple Christian Methodist Episcopal Church, 172-123rd Avenue, Seattle, WA 98122. Telephone 206-325-9344. The Rev. Barry Ray, pastor. The Rev. Carolyn A. Thomas, pastor of Christ Temple CME Church, will be officiating.
Cards, flowers (plants), condolences and other expressions may be sent to Rev. James E. Smith, Sr., 1329 Goldenrod Drive S.E., Lacey, WA 98513. Telephone: 360-455-0367. Please keep Rev. Smith, Sr. and his immediate family in prayer.
In His Service,
Bishop Henry M. Williamson, Sr.
Presiding Prelate of the Ninth Episcopal District
Christian Methodist Episcopal Church
Dear Colleagues, Connectional Members, and Friends,
It is with deep regret to inform you that Mrs. Ruby C. Smith, the wife of retired Presiding Elder Rev. James E. Smith, Sr. of the Alaska-Pacific Region, and the mother of five children including the Rev. James E. Smith, Jr. of the Carolina Region, passed away on Monday, May 18, 2009.
Mrs. Smith was a faithful and devoted Christian, ministers’ spouse, mother, and grandmother. She served faithfully at Christ Temple Christian Methodist Episcopal Church in Tacoma Washington and at other churches where Rev. Smith pastored in the Ninth Episcopal District. The Smiths recently celebrated 54 years of marriage.
Funeral services for Mrs. Smith will be held on Friday, May 22, 2009, 1:00 p.m., at Curry Temple Christian Methodist Episcopal Church, 172-123rd Avenue, Seattle, WA 98122. Telephone 206-325-9344. The Rev. Barry Ray, pastor. The Rev. Carolyn A. Thomas, pastor of Christ Temple CME Church, will be officiating.
Cards, flowers (plants), condolences and other expressions may be sent to Rev. James E. Smith, Sr., 1329 Goldenrod Drive S.E., Lacey, WA 98513. Telephone: 360-455-0367. Please keep Rev. Smith, Sr. and his immediate family in prayer.
In His Service,
Bishop Henry M. Williamson, Sr.
Presiding Prelate of the Ninth Episcopal District
Christian Methodist Episcopal Church
Sunday, May 17, 2009
AME Bishop McKenzie Inspires Carter Tabernacle CME in Orlando, FL
Orlando, FL—Bishop Vashti McKenzie is a very busy woman. Watching over the 13th AME district, as well as being a bestselling author can tend to put a heavy demand on ones time, especially when you have been elected as the first woman bishop of the AME Church.
“I pray a lot more,” said McKenzie in a brief pre-sermon interview, as she reflects on her position within the church, as well as her schedule. “I am concerned about several congregations, and about several communities,” referencing her district, which encompasses Tennessee and Kentucky.
As the first female elected bishop amongst the AME ranks, McKenzie said she sees herself as a “reluctant” role model.
“Role models tend to try and be perfect,” she said. “But if anyone can look at me and say ‘if God did that for you, then he can do it for me’, then I am satisfied with that.”
“I pray a lot more,” said McKenzie in a brief pre-sermon interview, as she reflects on her position within the church, as well as her schedule. “I am concerned about several congregations, and about several communities,” referencing her district, which encompasses Tennessee and Kentucky.
As the first female elected bishop amongst the AME ranks, McKenzie said she sees herself as a “reluctant” role model.“Role models tend to try and be perfect,” she said. “But if anyone can look at me and say ‘if God did that for you, then he can do it for me’, then I am satisfied with that.”
The Bishop spoke at Carter Tabernacle for the annual Women’s Day celebration on March 22.
Armed with an insightful word, and enough energy light a room, McKenzie’s electric sermon brought the house down, all in the name of the Lord.
“I want up,” McKenzie shouted. Her sermon, focused on succeeding in these times of tribulation, as well as creating a better quality of life, all through your relationship with Jesus Christ.
After worship, the Carter family prepared a reception for McKenzie. She was showered with gifts from congregation members, as well as the local alumni chapter of Delta Sigma Theta.
As McKenzie prepared to leave the city of Orlando, she stopped briefly and said a brief prayer for Carter Tabernacle.
“Come back soon, Bishop,” a Carter member yells as her car pulls away. She waves as the car pulls off. She may be headed back to her duties in Nashville, but Bishop McKenzie left a lasting impression on the hearts of Christians throughout Orlando. Photo shows Pastor Dr. Vanessee Burns and Bishop Vashti McKenzie.
Armed with an insightful word, and enough energy light a room, McKenzie’s electric sermon brought the house down, all in the name of the Lord.
“I want up,” McKenzie shouted. Her sermon, focused on succeeding in these times of tribulation, as well as creating a better quality of life, all through your relationship with Jesus Christ.
After worship, the Carter family prepared a reception for McKenzie. She was showered with gifts from congregation members, as well as the local alumni chapter of Delta Sigma Theta.
As McKenzie prepared to leave the city of Orlando, she stopped briefly and said a brief prayer for Carter Tabernacle.
“Come back soon, Bishop,” a Carter member yells as her car pulls away. She waves as the car pulls off. She may be headed back to her duties in Nashville, but Bishop McKenzie left a lasting impression on the hearts of Christians throughout Orlando. Photo shows Pastor Dr. Vanessee Burns and Bishop Vashti McKenzie.
Thursday, May 14, 2009
10th Episcopal District Expands into Sudan and Egypt
Bishop Kenneth Wayne Carter, presiding prelate of the 10th Episcopal District, announced today the expansion of the Christian Methodist Episcopal Church into Sudan and Egypt. Members of the former Independent Episcopal Church of Sudan, Northern Sudan Province, have offered themselves for membership in the CME Church.
“This is one of my greatest moments as a bishop,” said Bishop Carter. “The CME Church continues to grow.”
Under the leadership of former Bishop Peter Elbersh Kwa, the Church of Sudan brings over 20,000 new CMEs to the denomination, encompassing 50 churches, with one church located in Egypt. The Sudanese church also has affiliation here in the United States: Dallas, TX; Oklahoma City, OK; and Denver, CO, as well as in Ontario, Canada. Bishop Peter Elbersh Kwa relinquishes his order as bishop and now assumes the title of mission supervisor of churches in the Sudanese region.
In addition to Sudan, the 10th Episcopal District consists of churches in Ghana, Haiti, Jamaica, Liberia and Nigeria (Eastern, East Mainland, Lagos, Northern, Southern and Western) and DR Congo/Rwanda.
Bishop Kenneth Wayne Carter, presiding prelate of the 10th Episcopal District, announced today the expansion of the Christian Methodist Episcopal Church into Sudan and Egypt. Members of the former Independent Episcopal Church of Sudan, Northern Sudan Province, have offered themselves for membership in the CME Church.
“This is one of my greatest moments as a bishop,” said Bishop Carter. “The CME Church continues to grow.”Under the leadership of former Bishop Peter Elbersh Kwa, the Church of Sudan brings over 20,000 new CMEs to the denomination, encompassing 50 churches, with one church located in Egypt. The Sudanese church also has affiliation here in the United States: Dallas, TX; Oklahoma City, OK; and Denver, CO, as well as in Ontario, Canada. Bishop Peter Elbersh Kwa relinquishes his order as bishop and now assumes the title of mission supervisor of churches in the Sudanese region.
In addition to Sudan, the 10th Episcopal District consists of churches in Ghana, Haiti, Jamaica, Liberia and Nigeria (Eastern, East Mainland, Lagos, Northern, Southern and Western) and DR Congo/Rwanda.
Wednesday, May 13, 2009
Monday, May 11, 2009
Thursday, May 07, 2009

A Very Busy Day at General Board
Memphis, TN—Today is the last day of General Board. But yesterday was very busy as expected. Even so, this year’s meeting continues to be very tame when compared with General Boards from the past. As usual, Wednesday’s sessions were all held at the Greenwood CME Church, Dr. Travis Robinson, pastor. Right off the bat, let me say that Greenwood must be commended for so efficiently receiving the delegation to the 2009 meeting. They do it every year. In fact, in his moment of introductions and announcements at Communion Service last night, Bishop L.L. Reddick, III, took special privilege in thanking the 1st Episcopal District for hosting the meeting 22 years in a row.Wednesday morning’s session began with a devotional service, including meditation by Dr. Louis Parham, pastor of the Martin Temple CME Church here in Memphis. This was followed by the Standing Committee Reports from meetings from the previous day. All reports were received and accepted by the General Board. The Noon speaker was Bishop Thomas Louis Brown, Sr., 4th Episcopal District, who was installed as the chairman of the College of Bishops for 2009-10. After lunch, the General Board heard a special presentation by Dr. Pernessa Seale, founder and CEO of Balm and Gilead. Dr. Seale announced a new media campaign promoting HIV screening. One of the featured spokespersons in the videos presented was Senior Bishop Wiliam H. Graves, Sr.
The Service of Holy Communion last night was well attended by Memphis-area CMEs and members of the General Board, Senior Bishop William Graves presiding. The 1st Episcopal District Choir, under the direction of Mrs. Charlotte Pope, rendered the music, which was outstanding. The Communion speaker was Bishop Ronald M. Cunningham, 8th Episcopal District. A sumptuous repast followed, including shrimp, meatballs, chicken wings, and homemade ice cream. I have to go now. Pick up the May issue of The Christian Index for more detailed information regarding the General Connectional Board meeting and departmental reports.
Wednesday, May 06, 2009

General Board: Let the Work Begin
Memphis, TN—The 2009 General Connectional Board meeting formally opened Tuesday afternoon, May 5th, at the Holiday Inn Select Hotel. Senior Bishop Wiliam H. Graves presided. The meditation speaker was Dr. Martha Granger, presiding elder of the
Evansville/Hopkinsville District, Kentucky Region, with the title, “Wash Day” (John 9). Other than the excitement of the spoken Word, the opening plenary of the General Board was without a lot of fanfare. Following the calling of the roll of Board members, Executive Secretary of the CME Church Atty. Juanita Bryant read her yearly report. The report was approved by the General Board. When Senior Bishop Graves
excused himself due to an emergency, Vice Chairman of the General Board Bishop Othal Hawthorne Lakey assumed leadership of the session. Little discussion or business ensued, except for the assigning of orderlies from each Episcopal District. The assembly was then released to go to departmental meetings. Most meetings met around a meal.
The meeting of the Editorial Board of The Christian Index was held at 5 p.m. in room 7 of the hotel, chaired by Bishop Thomas L. Brown, Sr. In addition to Board members, several guests were present: Dr. Louise Baker Brown, Bishop and Mrs. L.L. Reddick, III, Mrs. Frances W. Jones, Connectional Spouses’ President Mrs. Maggie C. Banks, Dr. Wardell Bonner, pastor, St. John CME, Washington, DC, and others. I gave the editor’s report, which received the approval of the Board, with high commendations. Following the meeting, I hosted a very nice supper for the Board members, if I must say so myself. We dined on ribs, baked chicken, corn on the cob, potato salad, slaw, baked beans, bread, and a wide assortment of desserts. After the meal, Secretary of the Editorial Board Kenneth McMillian and I worked on the Editorial Board’s report, which will be presented in today’s open session at Greenwood CME.
The evening ended with a praise and worship program, sponsored by the Ministers’ and Laymen’s Council, Dr. Eddie Jumper, president.
Today will be the busiest day of the General Board. I’ll let you know what happened.
The evening ended with a praise and worship program, sponsored by the Ministers’ and Laymen’s Council, Dr. Eddie Jumper, president.
Today will be the busiest day of the General Board. I’ll let you know what happened.
Tuesday, May 05, 2009
From the General Connectional BoardMemphis, TN (May 5, 2009)—Hello fellow CMEs. As part of my ministry of information sharing, I will attempt to keep you somewhat abreast of what’s going on here as we begin the 2009 version of the CME General Connectional Board. As you know, the General Board is mandated by the Church to come together at this time each year to hear reports on the connectional departmental ministries. The General Board consists of representatives from each Episcopal District who are assigned to an individual departmental board convening at this meeting. As editor of The Christian Index, and one of 10 general officers, I am making my eleventh report to the General Board, and while so far each report has been well received, I never really relax until this meeting is over.
As I write this entry mid-morning on Tuesday, May 5, 2009, it’s still somewhat quiet around the Holiday Inn Select Hotel. Because I was on travel yesterday from Washington, DC to preach at my former church, Russell Temple CME, Alexandria, VA, I missed the General Officers’ Council meeting Monday morning. I heard that all went well.
As the newest member to the CME Convocation Committee, I sat in on its meeting this morning at 7 AM in the hotel restaurant. It was a very interesting meeting. Chaired by Bishop Paul A.G. Stewart, Sr., and including Bishops Brown and Brown, and Bishop Hoyt and Williamson, Sr., the committee is not lacking in good Episcopal leadership. Also on the committee are several other general officers, including Dr. Tyrone T. Davis, director of the Convocation; and Doris Herring, Convocation registrar.
The harkening message of this morning’s meeting was how each CME leader must do more to promote the CME Convocation. Several strategies were put on the table. In fact, one of the reasons the Committee invited this editor to be present was to help strengthen promotion through the use of the Index and the Missionary Messenger. We will be working closely with the committee to strike a consistent, uniform message to all CMEs on how they cannot afford to miss the “Ships” that will be sailing “From Good to Great” when we come together in St. Louis in September.
The 2009 General Board formally kicks off this afternoon at 2 PM, with Senior Bishop William H. Graves, Sr., presiding. We then will go into individual departmental meetings after 4 PM. I’ll let you know what happened. Peace.
Tuesday, April 14, 2009
Critical Pastoral Concerns from the 8th Episcopal District
Christian Methodist Episcopal Church
Office of the Bishop
The Rt. Rev. Ronald M. Cunningham
Christian Methodist Episcopal Church
Office of the Bishop
The Rt. Rev. Ronald M. Cunningham
MEMO
To: Members and Friends of the Eighth Episcopal District
Re: Recent Critical Pastoral Concerns
Date: April 14, 2009
For your information, this memo refers to three, reported, recent critical pastoral concerns which have had an impact on persons and families in the “Magnificent Excellent Eighth.”
Friday night, April 10, 2009, the nephew of Mrs. Clarice (Lady Clarice) Cunningham, William Flake, age 36, was killed in an automobile accident in Gibson County, Tennessee. Mr. Flake is the father of 4 young children. He is the grandson of Mr. James Flake and Mrs. Pandora Flake, members of Phillips Chapel CME Church, Milan, Tennessee. Mrs. Flake presently serves as president of the East Tennessee Region Stewardess Board. Mr. Flake’s funeral will be, Thursday, April 16th, 2:00 PM, at Phillips Chapel
CME Church, 4023 Cates Street, Milan, Tennessee 38358. Lady Clarice may be reached at 901-338-4978.
Funeral arrangements are in the hands of Baskerville Funeral Home, 802 N. 9th Avenue,
Humboldt, TN 38343, phone 731-784-9994.
Tuesday, April 7, 2009, Rev. W. E. Lockett, long time pastor of Metropolitan CME Church, Houston, Texas, underwent major surgery. Rev. Lockett is physically and spiritually stable, and is recovering at his residence in Houston. His primary caregiver is Mrs. Lillie Lockett, his wife of more than 44 years.
Please know that on Sunday, April 5, 2009, one of Mrs. Lockett’s sisters died. Her name is Mrs. Willie Jean Jackson, of Pine Hill, New Jersey. The funeral will take place Saturday, April 18, at Bethel AME Church, Quitman, Georgia, Stevens McGhee Funeral Home, 301 E. Green Street, Quitman, Georgia, 31643. The Lockett’s may be reached at 713-524-9556; address: 2521 N. Macgregor Way, Houston, TX 77004.
To: Members and Friends of the Eighth Episcopal District
and the Christian Methodist Episcopal Church
From: The Office of Bishop R. M. Cunningham
Re: Recent Critical Pastoral Concerns
Date: April 14, 2009
For your information, this memo refers to three, reported, recent critical pastoral concerns which have had an impact on persons and families in the “Magnificent Excellent Eighth.”
Friday night, April 10, 2009, the nephew of Mrs. Clarice (Lady Clarice) Cunningham, William Flake, age 36, was killed in an automobile accident in Gibson County, Tennessee. Mr. Flake is the father of 4 young children. He is the grandson of Mr. James Flake and Mrs. Pandora Flake, members of Phillips Chapel CME Church, Milan, Tennessee. Mrs. Flake presently serves as president of the East Tennessee Region Stewardess Board. Mr. Flake’s funeral will be, Thursday, April 16th, 2:00 PM, at Phillips Chapel
CME Church, 4023 Cates Street, Milan, Tennessee 38358. Lady Clarice may be reached at 901-338-4978.
Funeral arrangements are in the hands of Baskerville Funeral Home, 802 N. 9th Avenue,
Humboldt, TN 38343, phone 731-784-9994.
Tuesday, April 7, 2009, Rev. W. E. Lockett, long time pastor of Metropolitan CME Church, Houston, Texas, underwent major surgery. Rev. Lockett is physically and spiritually stable, and is recovering at his residence in Houston. His primary caregiver is Mrs. Lillie Lockett, his wife of more than 44 years.
Please know that on Sunday, April 5, 2009, one of Mrs. Lockett’s sisters died. Her name is Mrs. Willie Jean Jackson, of Pine Hill, New Jersey. The funeral will take place Saturday, April 18, at Bethel AME Church, Quitman, Georgia, Stevens McGhee Funeral Home, 301 E. Green Street, Quitman, Georgia, 31643. The Lockett’s may be reached at 713-524-9556; address: 2521 N. Macgregor Way, Houston, TX 77004.
Editor Jones' Note: Please, let us be in prayer for the families of Bishop Cunningham/Flake and Lockett/Jackson during their hours of bereavement and recovery.
Monday, April 13, 2009
The Homegoing of Mrs. Jarutha Thompson
We regret to inform you of the passing of Mrs. Jarutha Echols Thompson, Wife of Rev. V.T. Thompson,former Presiding Elder of the Gloster-Hattiesburg District, South MS Region, 4th Episcopal District of the Christian Methodist Episcopal Church.
Tuesday, April 14, 2009, 11 am
(Pre-viewing, 9 am-11 am)
Rose Hill Christian Methodist Episcopal Church
15 Rose Hill Road
Columbia, Mississippi 39429
601-731-7666
Rev. Johnnie Porter, pastor
Body entrusted to:
Smith Funeral Home
519 Owens Street
Columbia, MS 39429
601-736-2257
Mr. David Smith, Director
Please keep Rev. Thompson and his family in your Prayers. Rev. Thompson can be reached at 601-943-5361.
Submitted by Pene' Long Woods
We regret to inform you of the passing of Mrs. Jarutha Echols Thompson, Wife of Rev. V.T. Thompson,former Presiding Elder of the Gloster-Hattiesburg District, South MS Region, 4th Episcopal District of the Christian Methodist Episcopal Church.
Homegoing service as follows:
Tuesday, April 14, 2009, 11 am
(Pre-viewing, 9 am-11 am)
Rose Hill Christian Methodist Episcopal Church
15 Rose Hill Road
Columbia, Mississippi 39429
601-731-7666
Rev. Johnnie Porter, pastor
Body entrusted to:
Smith Funeral Home
519 Owens Street
Columbia, MS 39429
601-736-2257
Mr. David Smith, Director
Please keep Rev. Thompson and his family in your Prayers. Rev. Thompson can be reached at 601-943-5361.
Submitted by Pene' Long Woods
Sunday, April 12, 2009
Hallelujah! He has Risen from the Dead!The angel said to the women, "Do not be afraid, for I know that you are looking for Jesus, who was crucified. He is not here; he has risen, just as he said. Come and see the place where he lay. Then go quickly and tell his disciples: 'He has risen from the dead and is going ahead of you into Galilee. There you will see him.' Now I have told you" (Matthew 28:5-7).
Wednesday, April 08, 2009
Romans 5:6-8
"You see, at just the right time, when we were still powerless, Christ died for the ungodly. Very rarely will anyone die for a righteous man, though for a good man someone might possibly dare to die. But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us" (NIV).
"You see, at just the right time, when we were still powerless, Christ died for the ungodly. Very rarely will anyone die for a righteous man, though for a good man someone might possibly dare to die. But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us" (NIV).
Tuesday, March 31, 2009
Passing of Presiding Elder Floyd English
Reverend Floyd English, Presiding Elder of the Minden District, Louisiana Conference, 4th Episcopal District and pastor of Union CME Church, passed away late Sunday evening in Shreveport, LA.
Home Going Service will be held:
Friday, April 3, 2009, 1 PM.
Mt. Zion Christian Methodist Episcopal Church
414 E. Union Street
Minden, LA 71055
Pastor, Reverend Jeffrey Whitmore
Presiding Prelate, Bishop Thomas L. Brown, Sr.
(Brunch will be held at the church between 11 PM and 12:45 PM prior to the service.)
His body has been entrusted to:
Winnfield Funeral Home
3701 Hollywood Avenue
Shreveport, LA 71109
318-631-0203
Interment:
Reverend Floyd English, Presiding Elder of the Minden District, Louisiana Conference, 4th Episcopal District and pastor of Union CME Church, passed away late Sunday evening in Shreveport, LA.
Home Going Service will be held:
Friday, April 3, 2009, 1 PM.
Mt. Zion Christian Methodist Episcopal Church
414 E. Union Street
Minden, LA 71055
Pastor, Reverend Jeffrey Whitmore
Presiding Prelate, Bishop Thomas L. Brown, Sr.
(Brunch will be held at the church between 11 PM and 12:45 PM prior to the service.)
His body has been entrusted to:
Winnfield Funeral Home
3701 Hollywood Avenue
Shreveport, LA 71109
318-631-0203
Interment:
Northwest Louisiana Veterans Cemetery, Keithville, LA.
Please keep Mrs. Carrie English, the children and grandchildren in your prayers.
Submitted by Pene' Woods
Please keep Mrs. Carrie English, the children and grandchildren in your prayers.
Submitted by Pene' Woods
Sunday, March 29, 2009
Lewis Chapel Pastor Reed Awarded Citizen of the YearRev. Charles A. Reed, Sr., pastor of Lewis Chapel CME Church in Santa Barbara, California (The Miracle by the Beach) was awarded the "Citizen of the Year for 2008" for his outstanding work in the community. "Brother Chuk" as he is known, is the Police Chaplain for the department and very active.
Pastor Reed was appointed to Lewis Chapel in the fall of 2007 and relocated to the city from Los Angeles. After being pulled over by the police four times in three months, Pastor Reed made an appointment with S.B. Police Chief Cam Sanchez to discuss the matter. But, Pastor Reed did more than just talk about the problem facing Black men in Santa Barbara, Pastor Reed got involved. He joined the Police Citizens Academy and finished in April of 2008. During his background investigation, Bishop Williamson said, Pastor Reed would be "proactive" in his work with law enforcement. This has proven to be quite an understatement.
Pastor Reed's first call to duty as Chaplain was to the aid of a woman who's 11-year old daughter had died. It would not be the last time he would come face to face with death. On the 4th of July 2008, Pastor Reed decided to go out in the field with his sergeant, Sgt. Riley Harwood, instead of staying at home and enjoying the holiday with his family. That night, Pastor Reed was one of the first to arrive on the scene of a gang-related homicide. Pastor Reed assisted in stabilizing the victim on a back-board, only realizing some time later the teenage victim bled on him. Pastor Reed also assisted in the investigation by escorting traumatized witnesses to the Police Station and comforting them until they could be interviewed by detectives.
In November, he assisted with a death investigation. In December, Pastor Reed was called out to help in another homicide—a stabbing that occurred at a halfway house. There, Pastor Reed counseled a very distraught witness for nearly two hours until he was calm enough to provide a statement to detectives. But the role of a Police Chaplain consists of more than just helping with death investigations, as Pastor Reed's other activities demonstrate. During this past year, he has graduated from the Department's Citizen Academy, he met frequently with the Chief and Deputy Chief, served as a liaison with the Interfaith Ministerial Alliance, rode along with the Tactical Patrol Force and made contacts with the homeless, assisted with a runaway juvenile case and a warrant service, represented the Department at the funeral of a City Official, counseled SBPD employees facing personal challenges, and helped with the Special Event Unit with issues concerning the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King rally.
Pastor Reed has been married to his beautiful wife Joyce for almost thirty years. His son Charles Jr., is the drummer at Amos Memorial in Los Angeles. His daughter Shalen sings with Joyce in the singing group "Called." In his spare time he is a talented artist, lifeguard, and is the Head Swim Team Coach at the Montecito YMCA. The team has won many swim meets and a League Title under his leadership. Pastor Reed has even worked hard on the shooting range, and is an excellent marksmen.
During his brief tenure as a Police Chaplain Pastor Reed has had a tremendous impact on the Department. He has proven to be a great asset to the SBPD personnel and a positive influence in their relationship with the community. For these reasons "Brother Chuk"/Pastor Charles A. Reed, Sr. has been awarded by City of Santa Barbara and the Santa Barbara Police Department as the "Citizen of the Year" for 2008.
Wednesday, March 18, 2009
Arrangements for Bro. Charles Thompson
The funeral of Mr. Charles Thompson, brother of Greenwood-Jackson District Presiding Elder Rev. Eddie J. Wilson, will be held on Saturday, March 21, 2009, at 11 AM, Faith Memorial Baptist Church, 2520 Mount Lebanon St., Gibsland, LA 71028, (318) 843-9910. A wake will be held on Friday evening, March 20, 2009, 6-7 PM, at the Paradise Westside Chapel Funeral Home, 3201 6th St., Arcadia, Louisiana, (318) 263-2368.
Tuesday, March 10, 2009
Loss of Mr. Wallace Hull
Mr. Wallace Hull, long time member of the Calvary CME Church, Buffalo, NY, passed away on Saturday, March 7, 2009. Mr. Hull was the long time companion of Sis. Nellie B. King, former president of the New York-Washington Region Women's Missionary Society.
Services are as follows:
Wake and Masonic Service
Thursday, March 12, 2009
7 PM - 9 PM
Calvary CME Church
Homegoing Service
Friday, March 13, 2009
11 AM
Calvary CME Church
Rev. Regina Reese-Young, pastor
You may send condolences to:
Sis. Nellie B. King
20 Treehaven Rd.
Buffalo, NY 14215
(716) 832-7542
Mr. Wallace Hull, long time member of the Calvary CME Church, Buffalo, NY, passed away on Saturday, March 7, 2009. Mr. Hull was the long time companion of Sis. Nellie B. King, former president of the New York-Washington Region Women's Missionary Society.
Services are as follows:
Wake and Masonic Service
Thursday, March 12, 2009
7 PM - 9 PM
Calvary CME Church
Homegoing Service
Friday, March 13, 2009
11 AM
Calvary CME Church
Rev. Regina Reese-Young, pastor
You may send condolences to:
Sis. Nellie B. King
20 Treehaven Rd.
Buffalo, NY 14215
(716) 832-7542
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