Friday, December 29, 2023

NEW!!! AME News Digest 12.29.2023

NEW!!! AME News Digest 12.29.2023

Solidarity to Palestine

By Rev. Kendal McBroom


I write on this issue as a former pastor in the African Methodist Episcopal tradition, the director of civil and human rights for a faith-based agency, and a follower of Malcolm X and Jesus Christ. I write as one who believes in freedom and justice, mercy and grace, love and self-empowerment, salvation and liberation. I do not come to this conversation lightly, nor do I come presuming that I have all the answers. Nevertheless, I write as one guided by the spirit of Christ, the wisdom and insight of my African and Indigenous ancestors, and the stories of impacted persons throughout the African Diaspora. These perspectives influence this writing and my very being.

 

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Refuse to Die

Rev. Jazmine Brooks, TCR News Editor


 

From the moment I read about the attempted murder of Ralph Yarl and the several “neighbors” who refused his aid, all I could think was, “He was supposed to just die.” The phrase grieved and haunted me for several days until I had to put that thought on paper. Too aggravated to “theologize,” I hope you hear this cry in the spirit it was written because not only was Ralph supposed to just die, but we are all supposed to just die.


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“A Journey of Rediscovery and Transformation: The Historic Vernon AME Church”

By Kristi Orisabiyi Williams


Historic Vernon African Methodist Church, nestled in the heart of Tulsa, Oklahoma, within the vibrant districts of Greenwood and Black Wall Street, stands as a testament to the community’s resilience, reinvigoration, and enduring spirit. This sacred haven played a pivotal role during the dark days of the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre, as its basement provided refuge and solace for the residents of Greenwood. The story of Vernon AME Church has resonated with people worldwide, even making its mark in the movie “Killers of The Blood Flower Moon,” where the church’s fiery trial during the massacre is poignantly portrayed by renowned actors Robert De Niro and Leonardo DiCaprio.

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Everything To Gain

By Rev. Monica C. Jones, Ph.D., Contributing Writer

 

One of the proudest moments for me as an African Methodist Episcopal Church member (and I am sure many others) is when Dear Old Morris Brown in our Atlanta University Center rose from the ashes to once again take its place among higher education institutions. For 20 years, we prayed; for 20 years, we raised much-needed funds; for 20 years, we kept the doors open; for 20 years, we were determined and faithful; for 20 years, we waited on the Lord. 

 

A Ministry in Motion: Celebrating the Achievements of The Reverend Dr. Elmer S. Martin
Transforming Lives, Strengthening Faith, and Leading the Way 

In the ever-evolving landscape of faith and community, some individuals shine brightly as beacons of hope and change-makers. Reverend Elmer Shed Martin, a dedicated servant of God, is undoubtedly one of them. His tireless efforts and unwavering commitment have uplifted his congregations through the years and left an indelible mark on entire communities. By delving into his remarkable accomplishments, three compelling reasons come to light why he should be elected as Bishop of the African Methodist Episcopal Church.



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A Journal Reflection from the Mind of Syphio 
By Reverend Syphio A.B. Whack, 7th Episcopal District


One of life’s greatest gifts is within our hearts, which is the ability to remember. Some can remember names, faces, birthdays, and death dates. As well as those who were married to whom, how many children they had, right down to the address where they currently live. Our ability to remember is truly a gift from God. There are many things that I am mindful of and thankful to God for. My thank you list could take up to an hour or more of my morning prayer. As I sit here this morning, the house has a peaceful quietness and an airy chill.


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November Edition of The Christian Recorder

Click to read the full November edition of The Christian Recorder.

TCR Dialogues

Watch the interview with Bishop Stafford J. N. Wicker, President of the Council of Bishops
Watch our interview with Dr. Shively T. J. Smith

Connectional News

Allen University Unveils Life-Size Statue Of Congressman Jim Clyburn

Allen University unveils life-size statue of Congressman Jim Clyburn

By Marcus Flowers, NBC Columbia

 

On October 30, Allen University, a Historically Black  College And University (HBCU), unveiled a life-size statue of Congressman Jim Clyburn.The statue was placed at the intersection of Pine and Hampton Streets in a dedicated venue adjacent to the Waverly-Clyburn building. University President Dr. Ernest McNealey added the monument is “a tangible symbol of Congressman Clyburn’s dedication and service in the interest of HBCUs and the greater good.”

 

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DID YOU KNOW? AME Church Information Compiled By The CLO Historiographers Of Districts 1-20

To keep you informed and knowledgeable of the Lay Organization and its connection to the African Methodist Episcopal Church.

A portion of the following questions is taken from A History of the Connectional Laymen’s Organization of the AME Church by Mr. Raymond R. Davis, CLO Historiographer (1977). We give special thanks to Dr. Paulette Coleman (13th District) and Sister Phyllis Jackson (6th District) for providing a copy of his writings to share historical facts with you and for a permanent place in our CLO historical archives.


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Connectional Officer’s Granddaughter Honored With University Of Arkansas 2023 Young Alumni Award

 

On October 20, 2023, the University of Arkansas honored Ms. Raya Clay with a 2023 Young Alumni Award. The Young Alumni Award recognizes exceptional achievements in career, public service, and volunteer activities that bring honor to the University of Arkansas. Ms. Clay is the granddaughter of Connectional Lay Organization 1st Vice President Dr. Dorothy C. Henderson. Raya Clay is a 2x Emmy Award Winning Producer. She’s currently a Digital Talent Producer at FOX Sports in Los Angeles, California. She produces MLB, WWE, and NFL. She’s currently the lead Producer for FOX Sports’ WWE podcast “Out of Character.” Raya has ten years of experience working in the sports industry for national television networks.


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November Congratulatory

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Ecumenical News

White Christian Nationalism, Now with a Gavel in a Tailored Suit
What the election of Mike Johnson means for the future of American democracy
By Robert P. Jones, White Too Long
 

I do not believe there are any coincidences in a manner like this. Scripture is very clear that God is the one who raises up those in authority. God raised each of you, all of us, and God has ordained and allowed each of us to be brought here for this specific moment in this time. This is my belief.
 

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The Christian Recorder is the official newspaper of the African Methodist Episcopal Church and the oldest continuously produced publication by persons of African descent.  

Bishop David R. Daniels, Jr., Chair of the General Board Commission on Publications
Rev. Dr. Roderick D. Belin, President/Publisher of the AME Sunday School Union
Dr. John Thomas III, Editor of The Christian Recorder


Copyright © 2023 The Christian Recorder, All rights reserved.

RNS Morning Report: 13 emerging faith leaders who made their mark in 2023

RNS Morning Report

Top Stories

13 emerging faith leaders who made their mark in 2023

(RNS) — 2023's rising stars in religion are loud, proud and defiant.
 

The most important stories from the Vatican in 2023

(RNS) — Francis has continued to push for changes in the church, braving daunting opposition and several medical scares.
 

William Barber II escorted out of movie theater, denied disability accommodations

(RNS) — The civil rights leader and minister was there to see ‘The Color Purple’ with his 90-year-old mother.
 

Faith leaders, influencers who died in 2023: Preachers, protesters, writers, singers

(RNS) — We also bid farewell to some celebrities and influencers whose time on stages sometimes represented public faith or whose lives were strengthened by their personal faith.

RNS Opinion

Study: Utah is no longer a majority-Mormon state

(RNS) — With more nonmembers moving into the state and smaller Mormon birthrates, Utah is no longer a majority-Mormon state.
 

Why Israel matters: A conversation about the National Library of Israel with Raquel Ukeles

When people tell me that they are ‘culturally Jewish,’ I can now say: ‘Welcome to your culture.’

ICYMI

IHOPKC cuts ties with Mike Bickle over ‘inappropriate behavior’

(RNS)— Best known for launching a round-the-clock prayer and missions group, Bickle admitted to ‘past misconduct’ earlier this month.
 

The top religion and spirituality books of 2023

(RNS) — These stories of tenacity from people of several faiths and no faith offer guidance for surviving tough times.  

In Other News

 

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