Annual Conference - Camden District | Southwest Conference
Transcription
Annual Conference - Camden District | Southwest Conference
9th Episcopal District African Methodist Episcopal Church Annual Conference Schedule of Worship and Program Guide Presiding Prelate Bishop Harry L. Seawright Episcopal Supervisor Reverend Sherita M. Seawright 1|Page AFRICAN METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH “God Our Creator, Christ Our Redeemer, The Holy Spirit Our Comforter, Humankind Our Family” 2016 ANNUAL CONFERENCE SERIES B ISHOP H ARRY L.S EAWRIGHT Presiding Prelate R EVEREND S HERITA M. S EAWRIGHT WMS Supervisor M A I L I NG A D D R E S S Post Office Box 11705 Birmingham, AL 35202 E P I S C OP A L D I S T R IC T O F F IC E 1500 Daniel Payne Drive Birmingham, AL 35214 205.326.4499 (Office) 205.326.4434 (Fax) www.ninthamec.org 2|Page Our Episcopal Leaders 3|Page From the Bishop’s Heart Dear Members of the 9th Episcopal District, I greet you in the name of Jesus Christ! My heart rejoices over what God has bestowed upon me through the election and consecration as the 133rd Bishop in the African Methodist Episcopal Church. Episcopal Supervisor, Reverend Sherita M. Seawright, our children Shari and Matthew and our grandson Cameron will always remember Monday, July 11, 2016! I am grateful for the vote of confidence from all the Delegates during the 50 th Quadrennial Session of the General Conference. To be elected during our bicentennial celebration truly exceeded anything I could imagine! I am honored that the 9th Episcopal District is my first episcopal appointment and thank you for your warm welcome during our initial meeting at the conclusion of the General Conference. Prior to my assignment, I visited and worshipped with you a few times at the Daniel Payne Community Plaza in Birmingham. I commend you on your steadfast faith and commitment to own such a jewel. It is a strong testimony to the legacy of African Methodism and the Holy Spirit-filled vision of our founder, Bishop Richard Allen. While we work, serve, worship and grow together, I look forward to getting to know each of you. As our District answers God’s call to rise to a higher level of service, I stand on the promise that God does exceedingly, abundantly more than we can ask or think, according to the power that works in us. This promise gives me hope that God’s blessings will flow and our Zion will thrive. I respect the wisdom and the philosophy of our founders. My vision for the AME Church is to create an atmosphere that strengthens the Spirit of God upon which this denomination was founded. As I lead the 9th Episcopal District and serve the present age, I challenge us all to encourage, empower and enable everyone we encounter from children, youth and young adults to seniors. 4|Page Because I am a self-proclaimed “people-person,” I welcome the opportunity to greet each of you in the days and months ahead. In the meantime, I may be reached via email at [email protected] or by phone, after September 12, 2016, at the 9th Episcopal District office at (205) 326-4499. Thank you in advance for your prayers, assistance and support and remember I am praying for you also. Because of Christ, I am, Bishop Harry L. Seawright Presiding Prelate of the 9th Episcopal District of the AME Church 5|Page Table of Contents 3 Episcopal Leaders 4-5 The Bishop’s Word 6 Table of Contents 7-9 Annual Conferences, Plenary Dates & Venues 10 The Bishops 11 The Bishops in Retrospect & Respect 12 General Officers & Retired General Officers 13 Ninth Episcopal District Officers and Staff 14 Presiding Elders 15-17 Component Leaders 18-21 Annual Conferences Agenda & Daily Schedule 22-32 Annual Conference Sermons and Committees 33-34 The Opening Worship Service 35 A Night of Revival Service 36-44 The Ordination and Communion Service 45 The Retirement Celebration Service 46 The Memorial Moment Service 47-48 The Closing Worship Service 48 The Commissioning Service 49-54 The Annual Conference Singing 54 The Conference at Worship Missionary Benediction Lay Organization Quadrennial Theme The Lay Benediction 55 Disciplinary Questions 6|Page 2016 Annual Conference Schedule 7TH SESSION OF THE NORTHWEST ALABAMA ANNUAL CONFERENCE Tuesday, September 6, 2016 – WMS Annual Convention Wednesday – Saturday, September 7–10, 2016 Business, Training & Worship (Opening Annual Service – Wednesday, September 7, 2016 at 6:30pm) St. Mark AME Church, Dora – Rev. Sheila Williams – Host Church & Pastor St. Mark AME Church, Mason City – Rev. Gloria Patrick – Host Church & Pastor Allen Chapel AME Church, Woodlawn – Rev. Venita Farness – Host Church & Pastor Reverend Oliver Allen, Host Presiding Elder Reverend Dwight E. Dillard, Host Presiding Elder Held at DANIEL PAYNE COMMUNITY PLAZA 1500 Daniel Payne Drive, Birmingham, AL 35214 HOTEL ACCOMMODATIONS The Westin Birmingham 2221 Richard Arrington Jr. Blvd, North * Birmingham, AL 35203 * 205.307.3600 Singles/Doubles: $159.00 + Tax Sheraton Hotel Birmingham 2101 Richard Arrington Jr. Blvd, North * Birmingham, AL 35203 * 205.324.5000 Singles/Doubles: $99.00 + Tax Holiday Inn Express & Suites 1733 Fulton Road * Fultondale, AL 35068 * 205.439.6300 Singles/Doubles: $99.00 + Tax Best Western Plus – Carlton Suites 140 State Farm Parkway * Homewood, AL 35209 * 205.940.9990 Kings/Corp.Suites: $99.00 + Tax; Family Suites/Doubles: $109.00 + Tax SEPTEMBER 2, 2016 IS THE DEADLINE FOR ALL GROUP RATES Note: Please confirm all room rates and deadline dates with the Host Pastor/Church or the hotel(s) listed. 7TH SESSION OF THE SOUTHEAST ALABAMA ANNUAL CONFERENCE Tuesday, September 13, 2016 – WMS Annual Convention Wednesday – Saturday, September 14–17, 2016 – Business, Training & Worship (Opening Annual Service – Wednesday, Sept. 14, 2016 at 6:30pm) John’s Chapel AME Church, Enterprise 605 Geneva Highway, Enterprise, AL 36330 * 334.393.2661 Reverend Trevor Woolridge, Host Pastor Reverend Johnny Rutledge, Host Presiding Elder HOTEL ACCOMMODATIONS Candlewood Suites 203 Brabham Drive * Enterprise, AL 36330 * 334.308.1102 Singles/Doubles: $74.95 + Tax August 19, 2016 IS THE DEADLINE FOR THE GROUP RATE Note: Please confirm all room rates and deadline dates with the Host Pastor/Church or the hotel(s) listed. 7|Page 7TH SESSION OF THE ALABAMA RIVER REGION ANNUAL CONFERENCE Tuesday, October 4, 2016 – WMS Annual Convention Wednesday – Saturday, October 5-8, 2016 – Business, Training & Worship (Opening Annual Service – Wednesday, October 5, 2016 at 6:30pm) St. Paul AME Church, Montgomery 706 East Patton Avenue, Montgomery, AL 36111 Reverend Dr. Farrell Duncombe, Host Pastor Reverend Albert L. Hyche, Host Presiding Elder HOTEL ACCOMMODATIONS Embassy Suites Montgomery 300 Tallapoosa Street * Montgomery, AL 36104 Kings/Doubles $144.00 + Tax; Self-daily parking: $10.00 or Valet $15.00 and Free Breakfast. Hampton Inn 100 Commerce Street * Montgomery, AL 36104 Kings/Doubles $144.00 + Tax; Studio $154.00 +Tax Self-daily parking $5.00 or Valet $10.00. Double Tree 120 Madison Avenue * Montgomery, AL 36104 Kings $139.00 + Tax; Parking $10.00. Marriott Courtyard 5555 Carmichael Road * Montgomery, AL 36117 Kings/Doubles $89.00--$103.71 + Tax; Call Moses Williams at 334.272.5533 Note: Please confirm all room rates and deadline dates with the Host Pastor/Church or the hotel(s) listed. 7TH SESSION OF THE NORTHEAST ALABAMA ANNUAL CONFERENCE Tuesday, October 11, 2016 – WMS Annual Convention Wednesday – Saturday, October 12-15, 2016 – Business, Training & Worship (Opening Annual Service – Wednesday, October 12, 2016 at 6:30pm) Washington Chapel AME Church, Tuskegee 2508 Old Montgomery Road, Tuskegee, AL 36088 Reverend Andrew Holtz, Jr., Host Pastor Reverend Dr. Letitia Watford, Host Presiding Elder HOTEL ACCOMMODATIONS Kellogg Hotel & Conference Center at Tuskegee University 1 Booker T. Washington Boulevard * Tuskegee Institute, AL 36088 334.727.3000 or 1.800.949.6161 Single/Double: $75.00 + Tax Block ID: Washington Chapel Cut-off Date: September 20, 2016 Note: Please confirm all room rates and deadline dates with the Host Pastor/Church or the hotel(s) listed. 8|Page 7TH SESSION OF THE SOUTHWEST ALABAMA ANNUAL CONFERENCE Tuesday, October 18, 2016 – WMS Annual Convention Wednesday – Saturday, October 19 – 22, 2016 – Business, Training & Worship (Opening Annual Service – Wednesday, October 19, 2016 at 6:30pm) St. Paul AME Church, Mobile 1251 Rev. A.T. Days Street, Mobile, AL 36605 Reverend Robert J. Rumley, Host Pastor Reverend Johnnie M. Bryant, Host Presiding Elder HOTEL ACCOMMODATIONS Hampton Inn and Suites - Downtown Historic District 62 South Royal Street * Mobile, AL 36602 * 251.436.8787 Double/King $119.00 + Tax; Complimentary Breakfast; Parking: $9.00/night October 1, 2016 IS THE DEADLINE FOR THE GROUP RATE Group Rate Code: SWA Note: Please confirm all room rates and deadline dates with the Host Pastor/Church or the hotel(s) listed. PRE-PLENARY MEETING Presiding Elders’ Meeting with Bishop Daniel Payne Community Plaza, Birmingham Wednesday, November 9, 2016 PLENARY MEETING Daniel Payne Community Plaza, Birmingham 1500 Daniel Payne Drive, Birmingham, AL 35214 November 10 – 12, 2016 HOTEL ACCOMMODATIONS: TBA 9|Page The Bishops of the A. M. E. Church DISTRICTS ELECTED 1ST …………………… 118 …………… BISHOPS GREGORY GERALD MCKINLEY INGRAM 2ND……………….…… 123 …………… JAMES LEVERT DAVIS 3 ……………….…… 109 …………… MCKINLEY YOUNG 4 …………….……… 130 …………… JOHN FRANKLIN WHITE 5 …………….……… 131 …………… CLEMENT W. FUGH 6 ……………….…… 132 …………… REGINALD T. JACKSON 7 …………….……… 125 …………… SAMUEL LAWRENCE GREEN, SR. 8 ………….………… 129 …………… JULIUS HARRISON MCALLISTER, SR. 9 ………….………… 133 …………… HARRY LEE SEAWRIGHT 10 ………………… VASHTI MURPHY MCKENZIE RD TH TH TH TH TH TH TH 117 …………… 11 ………………….. 115 …………… ADAM JEFFERSON RICHARDSON, JR. 12 ……….………… 134 …………… MICHAEL LEON MITCHELL 13 ……….………… 128 …………… JEFFREY NATHANIEL LEATH 14 ……….…………. 127 …………… E. EARL MCCLOUD, JR. 15 ……….…………. 124 …………… DAVID RWHYNICA DANIELS, JR. 16 ………………….. 135 …………… E. ANNE HENNING BYFIELD 17 ………………..… 120 …………… WILFRED JACOBUS MESSIAH 18 ………….………. 137 …………… STAFFORD J.N. WICKER 19 ………………….. 121 …………… PAUL JONES MULENGA KAWIMBE 20 ………………….. 136 …………… RONNIE ELIJAH BRAILSFORD, SR. ECUMENICAL OFFICER 138………….. FRANK MADISON REID, III TH TH TH TH TH TH TH TH TH TH The Retired Bishops BISHOPS N O. JOHN HURST ADAMS…………………………………………………… FREDERICK HILBORN TALBOT………………….…..………………… FREDERICK CALHOUN JAMES…………….………………………….. FRANK CURTIS CUMMINGS………………….……………………….. PHILIP ROBERT COUSIN, SR. ………………….……………………… HENRY ALLEN BELIN, JR. ………………….………………………….. JOHN RICHARD BRYANT ………………………………………………. ROBERT VAUGHN WEBSTER ………………….……………………… ZEDEKIAH LAZETT GRADY ………………….………………….……… CORNAL GARNETT HENNING, SR. ………………………..……….. WILLIAM PHILLIPS DEVEAUX, SR. ……………………..…………… THEODORE LARRY KIRKLAND ………………………………………… RICHARD FRANKLIN NORRIS ………………………………..……….. PRESTON WARREN WILLIAMS, II …………………………………… CAROLYN TYLER-GUIDRY ………………….………………………….. 87 90 93 95 96 104 106 110 111 112 113 114 116 119 122 10 | P a g e The Bishops who have served the Ninth Episcopal District In Retrospect & Respect BISHOPS SERVED JOHN MIFFLIN BROWN 1868 – 1872 THOMAS M. D. WARD 1872 – 1878 J. P. CAMPBELL 1878 – 1880 ALEXANDER WASHINGTON WAYMAN 1880 – 1884 DANIEL ALEXANDER PAYNE 1884 – 1888 WESLEY JOHN GAINES 1888 – 1892 ABRAM GRANT 1892 – 1896 HENRY MCNEAL TURNER 1896 – 1900 WESLEY JOHN GAINES 1900 – 1904 LEVI JENKINS COPPIN 1904 – 1908 HENRY B. PARKS 1908 JOSHUA H. JONES 1908 – 1916 BENJAMIN FRANKLIN LEE 1916 – 1924 WILLIAM A. FOUNTAIN 1924 – 1928 ROBERT A. GRANT 1928 – 1936 DAVID H. SIMS 1936 – 1940 DECATUR W. NICHOLS 1940 – 1948 SHERMAN L. GREENE 1948 – 1951 WILLIAM A. FOUNTAIN 1951 – 1952 ISAIAH H. BONNER 1952 – 1956 CAREY A. GIBBS 1956 – 1960 ISAIAH H. BONNER 1960 – 1968 HUBERT N. ROBINSON 1968 – 1972 VINTON R. ANDERSON 1972 – 1976 PHILIP R. COUSIN, SR. 1976 – 1984 FRANK M. REID, JR. 1984 – 1989 CORNELIUS E. THOMAS 1989 – 1996 ZEDEKIAH L. GRADY 1996 – 2002 THEODORE L. KIRKLAND, SR. 2002 – 2008 JAMES LEVERT DAVIS 2008 – 2016 HARRY LEE SEAWRIGHT 2016 – 11 | P a g e General Officers of the A.M.E. Church CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER………………………….. Dr. Richard A. Lewis, Sr. SUNDAY SCHOOL UNION…………………………… Rev. Roderick D. Belin GLOBAL WITNESS AND MINISTRY……….……….… Dr. George F. Flowers EMPLOYMENT SECURITY…………………………..… Dr. Jerome V. Harris CHURCH GROWTH AND DEVELOPMENT……………. Dr. James Wade CHRISTIAN EDUCATION……………………………… Rev. Garland F. Pierce EDITOR, AME CHRISTIAN RECORDER………………. Mr. John Thomas, III GENERAL SECRETARY………………………………… Dr. Jeffery Cooper RESEARCH AND SCHOLARSHIP………………..……… Dr. Teresa Fry-Brown Retired General Officers Dr. Johnny Barbour, Jr. Dr. Paulette Coleman Dr. Dennis C. Dickerson Dr. Kenneth H. Hill Dr. Daryl B. Ingram Dr. Hercules Miles Dr. Calvin H. Sydnor, III Dr. Jamye Coleman Williams 12 | P a g e The Episcopal District Officers and Staff Bishop Harry L. Seawright, PRESIDING PRELATE Reverend Sherita M. Seawright, WMS - SUPERVISOR Reverend Alvelyn Sanders, EXECUTIVE ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT Ms. Nell Hayes, ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT to the BISHOP Rev. Johnny Rutledge, PRESIDENT, PRESIDING ELDERS’ COUNCIL Rev. Oliver Allen, TREASURER Rev. Brian Blackwell, ACCOUNTANT Mrs. Susie Jones Bonner, PRESIDENT, WMS Mr. Devan Elder, PRESIDENT, YPD Mrs. Djuana Duncombe Wilson, DIRECTOR, YPD Mrs. Bernella Knight Rose, PRESIDENT, LAY ORGANIZATION Dr. John Campbell, CO-COORDINATOR, SONS OF ALLEN Mr. Robert L. Turner, CO-COORDINATOR, SONS OF ALLEN Mrs. Johnnita Bryant, PRESIDENT, MINISTERS’ SPOUSES Mrs. Hattie Nathan, DIRECTOR, CHRISTIAN EDUCATION Rev. Sheri Smith Clayborn, ASST. DIRECTOR, CHRISTIAN EDUCATION Rev. Dr. Patrick Clayborn, CO-COORDINATOR, NICHOLS THOMAS GRADY CLERGY INSTITUTE Rev. Dr. Patricia Outlaw, CO-COORDINATOR, NICHOLS THOMAS GRADY CLERGY INSTITUTE Rev. Agnes Lover, CDMC COORDINATOR Rev. Maurice Wright, II, CO-DIRECTOR, EVANGELISM MINISTRY Rev. Dr. Lugenia Johnson, CO-DIRECTOR, EVANGELISM MINISTRY Rev. Dr. Mary Hudson, PRESIDENT, W OMEN IN MINISTRY Mrs. Latoya Kizito, CO-COORDINATOR, KOINONIAS MINISTRY Dr. Monica Dillihunt, CO-COORDINATOR, KOINONIAS MINISTRY Rev. Dr. Farrell Duncombe, CO-DIRECTOR, MUSIC MINISTRY Mrs. Rosemary Buffer, CO-DIRECTOR, MUSIC MINISTRY Rev. Alvelyn Sanders, CO-COORDINATOR OF PUBLIC RELATIONS/REPORTER, THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER Mrs. Marge Simmons, CO-COORDINATOR OF PUBLIC RELATIONS/EDITOR, THE 9TH HOUR NEWSLETTER Rev. Anre’ Fausch, ASST. REPORTER, THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER Ms. Tammy Davis, COORDINATOR OF HEALTH MINISTRY Rev. Warren Anderson, CHIEF MARSHAL Ms. Lottie Summerville, TECHNOLOGY COORDINATOR Mrs. Allie Reddick, REPORTER OF CLERGY INFORMATION Mrs. Bernella Knight Rose, CHAIR, SCHOLARSHIP COMMITTEE 13 | P a g e The Episcopal District Presiding Elders NORTHWEST ALABAMA CONFERENCE Birmingham-Florence……………………… Rev. Dwight E. Dillard Tuscaloosa District P. O. Box 11170 Birmingham, AL 35202 205.785.2727 (Home) ~ 205.527.5863 (Cell) South Birmingham-Huntsville…………… Rev. Oliver Allen Bessemer District P. O. Box 22346 Huntsville, AL 35814 256.585.1521 (Home) ~ 334.797.5386 (Cell) West Birmingham-Ensley………………… Rev. Cleophas Guice, Sr. Greensboro District 1625 5th Avenue, West Birmingham, AL 35208 205.337.6478 (Cell) SOUTHEAST ALABAMA CONFERENCE Dothan-Eufaula District…………………… Rev. David E. Reddick P. O. Box 311048 Enterprise, AL 36331 334.308.1400 (Home) ~ 334.494.0308 (Cell) Ozark-Troy District………….……………… Rev. Johnny Rutledge 2004 38th Court Phenix City, AL 36870 334.297.4460 (Home) ~ 706.587.4232 (Cell) ALABAMA RIVER REGION CONFERENCE Montgomery Selma District…… …….…… Rev. Albert L. Hyche 933 Woodbrook Road Birmingham, AL 35215 205.520.0295 (Home) ~ 205.616.2970 (Cell) NORTHEAST ALABAMA CONFERENCE Phenix City District………….……………… Rev. Samuel Smith 168 Reyes Street Ozark, AL 36360 334.774.8810 (Home) ~ 334.798.1703 (Cell) Tuskegee District………….………………… Rev. Dr. Letitia Watford 1718 South Perry Street Montgomery, AL 36104 334.224.8795 (Cell) SOUTHWEST ALABAMA CONFERENCE Mobile District…………….…………………. Rev. Johnnie Bryant 6754 Mauvilla Drive W Eight Mile, AL 36613 251.675.7715 (Home) ~ 251.610.2928 (Cell) Camden District……………………………… Rev. Dr. Jacquelyn L. Denson P. O. Box 333 Andalusia, AL 36420 334.427.7235 (Home) ~ 334.207.8331 (Cell) 14 | P a g e The Episcopal District Component Leaders 2016-2017 WMS CONFERENCE PRESIDENTS Mrs. Patricia R. Smith Northwest Alabama Conference Mrs. Dorothy Sconiers-Bevel Southeast Alabama Conference Mrs. Joyce P. O’Neal Alabama River Region Conference Mrs. Stephanie Bender Northeast Alabama Conference Mrs. Betty Davis Southwest Alabama Conference YPD CONFERENCE DIRECTORS Mrs. Ann Sharp Northwest Alabama Conference Ms. Tammy Booth Southeast Alabama Conference Mrs. Yvonne Kelly Alabama River Region Conference Ms. Valerie C. Wright Northeast Alabama Conference Ms. Debra Weatherspoon Southwest Alabama Conference YPD CONFERENCE PRESIDENTS Brittney Edison Northwest Alabama Conference Christian Hinton Southeast Alabama Conference Tigah Grayson Alabama River Region Conference Cortez Thomas Northeast Alabama Conference Cameron Robinson Southwest Alabama Conference 15 | P a g e The Episcopal District Component Leaders 2016-2017 CHRISTIAN EDUCATION DIRECTORS Rev. Christopher Burnett Northwest Alabama Conference Rev. LaKenya Anderson Southeast Alabama Conference Rev. Agnes Lover Alabama River Region Conference Mrs. Hattie Nathan Northeast Alabama Conference Rev. Charlotte Greene Southwest Alabama Conference LAY ORGANIZATION CONFERENCE PRESIDENTS Dr. Wayman Shiver Northwest Alabama Conference Ms. LaJosipha McLeod Southeast Alabama Conference Mr. Kenneth Strong Alabama River Region Conference Mr. Robert Turner Northeast Alabama Conference Mr. Gary Hart Southwest Alabama Conference SONS OF ALLEN COORDINATORS Mr. Jeremy Joseph Northwest Alabama Conference Mr. Franklin Simmons Southeast Alabama Conference Mr. John Campbell Alabama River Region Conference Mr. Robert Turner Northeast Alabama Conference Mr. Terry Jones Southwest Alabama Conference 16 | P a g e The Episcopal District Component Leaders KOINONIAS COORDINATORS Bridget Sims & Lakeshea Taylor Northwest Alabama Conference Jason Morris Southeast Alabama Conference Mia Cole Alabama River Region Conference Kendra Jacobs Northeast Alabama Conference Wendy Washington Southwest Alabama Conference BROTHERHOOD COMMITTEE Rev. Dwight E. Dillard, Treasurer Rev. Damien Littlejohn Northwest Alabama Conference Rev. Freddie Flowers Southeast Alabama Conference Rev. Dr. Farrell Duncombe Alabama River Region Conference Rev. L.C. Green Northeast Alabama Conference Rev. John L. Dees, Jr. Southwest Alabama Conference SUPERINTENDENTS Dr. Simpson Berry, Sr. Northwest Alabama Conference Sis. Faye McLeod Southeast Alabama Conference Bro. Ira Simmons Alabama River Region Conference Sis. Jewel Harris Northeast Alabama Conference Sis. Mary Turner Southwest Alabama Conference 17 | P a g e Conference Agenda & Daily Schedule NORTHWEST, SOUTHEAST, ALABAMA RIVER REGION, NORTHEAST AND THE SOUTHWEST ALABAMA ANNUAL CONFERENCES All Pastors’ Annual Reports are available online at www.ninthamec.org and must be submitted electronically. Completed reports must be sent via e-mail to [email protected]. Please contact your Presiding Elder for the deadline submission date for your Annual Conference. TUESDAY 8:00am 9:00am 9:30am* 10:00am 10:45am PRE-CONFERENCE ACTIVITIES & SERVICES Presiding Elders will meet with the Bishop Conference Finance Committee, District Accountant and Treasurer will meet with the Bishop Bishop’s Moment with the WMS Conference Secretaries & Statistician will meet with the Bishop Board of Examiners and all candidates will meet with the Bishop. (Please be on time and ready to report.) 3:00pm 4:30pm Bishop Meets With All Clergy OFFICIAL OPENING OF THE 7TH SESSION OF THE ANNUAL CONFERENCE Roll Call Transfers Organization Conference Boundary Presiding Elders’ Summary Report 6:30pm Business Session Adjournment WOMEN’S MISSIONARY SOCIETY CONFERENCE (8am – 5pm) 8:00am 9:30am* Registration/Fellowship/Breakfast/Devotion WMS Annual Conference Meeting *Bishop’s Moment with the WMS 12:00pm WMS Noon Day Worship Service LUNCH / RECESS 1:30pm 2:45pm 7:00pm WMS Annual Conference Meeting/Election WMS NIGHT IN WHITE CANDLELIGHT SERVICE WEDNESDAY 7:30am 8:20am 8:30am 9:00am BREAKFAST 9:45am BUSINESS SESSION Devotion (4th Year Candidates) Morning Glory Bible Study Conference Institute Reading of the Minutes Financial Reports 9th District Budget Presentation 9th District Audit Report Brotherhood Conference Treasurer 18 | P a g e 11:00am Pastors’ Reports 12:00pm Conference Component Reports Social and Political Action Women in Ministry Health Ministry M-SWAWO+ PKs Christian Debutante & Masters 12:30pm HOUR OF POWER WORSHIP SERVICE 1:30pm LUNCH / RECESS 3:00pm BUSINESS SESSION Devotion (3rd Year Candidates) Administrative Committee Reports Board of Examiners Employee Security Church Growth Christian Education Church School Youth & Young Adult Concerns 4:30pm Pastors’ Reports 5:45pm DINNER / RECESS 7:00pm OPENING WORSHIP SERVICE THURSDAY 7:30am 8:20am 8:30am 9:00am BREAKFAST 9:45am BUSINESS SESSION Devotion (2nd Year Candidates) Morning Glory Bible Study Conference Institute Reading of the Minutes Administrative Committee Reports Conference Trustees Deeds, Abstracts and Abandoned Property Missions, Circuits and Stations Conference Boundaries 10:30am Pastors’ Reports 12:30pm HOUR OF POWER ~ Women in Ministry 1:30pm LUNCH / RECESS 2:50pm Devotion (1st Year Candidates) 3:00pm 5:30pm TOWNHALL MEETING DINNER / RECESS 7:00pm ORDINATION WORSHIP SERVICE 19 | P a g e FRIDAY 7:30am 8:15am 8:30am 9:00am BREAKFAST Devotion (Class on Admission) Morning Glory Bible Study Conference Institute 9:45am BUSINESS SESSION Reading of the Minutes 10:00am Pastors’ Reports 11:00am Daniel Payne College Reports 12:30pm HOUR OF POWER ~ Sons of Allen 1:30pm LUNCH / RECESS (Bishop will have private consultation with Pastors and congregations as needed) 2:45pm Retirement Service 3:30pm Pastors’ Reports 4:00pm Memorial Service 4:45pm Church School 6:00pm DINNER / RECESS 7:00pm LAY ORGANIZATION WORSHIP SERVICE SATURDAY 8:00am BREAKFAST YPD Session 9:30am YPD PROGRAM 7:00am 11:15am Praise Service 11:30am CLOSING & COMMISSIONING SERVICE Resolutions Accountant’s Finance Report Expressions of Gratitude Commissioning Service Presentation of Certificates Reading of Appointments Benediction 20 | P a g e SEVENTH SESSION Northwest Alabama Annual Conference September 6 - 10, 2016 DANIEL PAYNE COMMUNITY PLAZA 1500 Daniel Payne Drive, Birmingham, AL 35214 Allen Chapel AME Church, Woodlawn Rev. Venita Farness, Host Pastor St. Mark AME Church, Dora Rev. Sheila Williams, Host Pastor St. Mark AME Church, Mason City Rev. Gloria Patrick, Host Pastor SERMONS AND SERVICES WMS (Night in White) ANNUAL ………………..………………………......….THE REV. CHRIS WALKER Pastor, St. Paul AME Church, Eastlake MID-DAY SERVICE (Wednesday) WOMEN IN MINISTRY MID-DAY WORSHIP SERVICE (Thursday) ORDINATION SERVICE (Thursday Night) SONS OF ALLEN MID-DAY WORSHIP SERVICE (Friday) LAY ORGANIZATION WORSHIP SERVICE (Friday Night) COMMISSIONING CLOSING BOARD OF EXAMINERS All Conference Presiding Elders serve as Advisors to the Board DEAN …………………….………….. The Rev. T. Eric Nathan SECRETARY …………….…….……. The Rev. Raymond Swafford ADMISSIONS …..…………………. The Rev. Bruce Hunter The Rev. Gloria A. Hall FIRST YEAR ……………………….. The Rev. Mashod A. Evans The Rev. Percy Jones, Sr. SECOND YEAR ……….…………… The Rev. Dr. Ronald D. Sterling THIRD YEAR …………………..…… The Rev. Alfonso Colvin The Rev. James Platt FOURTH YEAR ……….……..……. The Rev. Dr. Patricia Outlaw The Rev. Dr. Patrick Clayborn The Rev. Christopher Burnett The Rev. Deborah Peppers The Rev. Alvelyn Sanders The Rev. Dr. Robert R. A. Turner MEMBERS OF THE BOARD …… MEMORIALS: The Revs. Charles Marie Davis, Debra A. Ballard, Victor Baugh, James Davis, Sr., Addie L. Deviner, Myers Hawkins, Willis N. Huggins, Percy W. Jones, Sr., 21 | P a g e Nancy H. Seay and Glenn E. Smiley Sisters Rebecca Buggs, Mildred I. Hardy, Sharon V. Thornton and Brenda Clayton Brothers William Mark, Zion Phllips, Kevin Partte, James Robinson and Robert Tolliver. MINISTERIAL EFFICIENCY: The Revs. Mashod A. Evans, Gloria A. Hall, Bruce W. Hunter, Betty C. Robinson, Raymond B. Swafford, Robert R.A. Turner and Johnnie L. Edison. JUDICIARY: Revs. Dwight E. Dillard, T. Eric Nathan, Anre’ Faush, Richard Carter and Dr. Patricia Outlaw. EMPLOYEE SECURITY COMMITTEE: Revs. Damien R. Littlejohn, Levi A. Billups, III, T. Eric Nathan, Roosevelt Williams, III, John Russell and Alvelyn Sanders, Sisters Daisy Walker, Kaye Burrows, Daphne Garrett and Shirley Osborne, Brothers Larry Searcy, James Elmore and Perry Washington. BUDGET COMMITTEE: Revs. Gloria Hall, Bruce Hunter and Brother James C. Bonner. CONFERENCE TRUSTEES: Revs. T. Eric Nathan, Dwight E. Dillard and Roosevelt Williams, III, Sisters Brenda Clayton and Dr. Jeanette Jones Brother James O. Heyward. FINANCE COMMITTEE: To Be Elected DEEDS, ABSTRACTS AND ABANDONED PROPERTY: Revs. Wm. Jermaine Richardson, Claudewell Campbell, Steve R. Caver, Vicki L. Mayberry, Tony W. Latham, Raymond E. Mayes, Sharon J. Hearn, Jerry Wilder and Sandra Cole Sisters Glenda Baites, Flora Parker, Mattie Bonds and Johnnie Pratt Brothers Ralph Minor, Thomas Hamner and Ben Colston.. CONFERENCE BOUNDARIES: Revs. Ronald D. Sterling, Venita Farness, Willis N. Huggins, Sr., Roderick Callins, Willie Mae Salter, Christopher P. Burnett, Roland U. Brown and Doris West Sisters LaDonna Amos, Sheila Williams, Joyce Thomas, Ethel Gray, Brothers, Mark Spencer, Edward Green, and Johnny Edward. PRESIDING ELDERS’ ASSESSMENT: Revs. Bruce W. Hunter, Mashod A. Evans, Patrick Clayborn, John A. Russell, Sheila Williams, Deborah Peppers and Zachary Watkins Sisters Gloria Vail, Rita Goodson and Loretta Martin Brothers Pleas White, Jr., Edward Colvin and Edward Scott. DANIEL PAYNE COLLEGE BOARD OF TRUSTEES: Revs. Oliver Allen Brothers James C. Bonner, Jr., Wayman Shiver, Jr. and Edward Scott Sisters Shirley A. Mitchell and Marian Kiel. MISSIONS, CIRCUITS AND STATIONS: Revs. Damien Littlejohn, James H. Barnett, Betty Robinson, Ronald Sterling, Raymond B. Swafford and Darryl Ervin Sisters Adrienne Rowland, Dorothy Davis and Charlie Evans Brothers Toney Tolbert, Simpson Berry and Otis Penick. (This committee must be prepared to make their report in unison with the Mirroring Study Committee). CHURCH GROWTH: Revs. Robert R. A. Turner, Roderick Callins, Tony W. Latham, Joseph Hall, Roosevelt Williams, III, and Sheila D. Williams Sisters Wilma Nelson, Patricia Wilson and Shirley Mitchell Brothers Thomas Jackson, James Hawkins, Guy Ginn and Wayman Shiver, Jr. CHRISTIAN EDUCATION: Revs. Christopher Burnett, Ronald Sterling, Patricia A. Outlaw, Karen Y. Jarman, Eric Walker, Michelle Jefferson Sisters Estella Whitfield, Thelma Snodgrass, Dyona Watkins and Loretta Martin Brothers Derrick Franklin, Forest Rutledge and Marcus Hatchett. CHURCH SCHOOL: Dr. Simpson Berry Brother Anderson Todd, III. 22 | P a g e MISSIONARY SOCIETY: Rev. Sherita M. Seawright Sisters Melissa Grayson, Mary Allen, Christine Dillard, Carolyn Guice, Patricia Smith, Susie S. Jones Bonner, Mary W. Porter, Lolita Seltzer, Patty Gibson, Rita Goodson and Shelia Grier. LITERARY COMMITTEES STATE OF THE CHURCH: Revs. Gloria Patrick, Alfonso Colvin and Rhonda Tolliver Sisters Mary C. Garrett, Michelle Reed, Cherly McNealey, Aisha Sanders and Shirley Osborn Brothers Frankie Davidson, Roderick Callin, Pleas White, Jr. and Anthony Spaulding. STATE OF THE COUNTRY: Revs. Ronald D. Sterling, Steven Barnett, Richard Davis, Sandra Cole, William Hamilton, Myers Hawkins, Jr., Irvin Leonard and Gloria Patrick Sisters Linda Kimbrough, LaTosha Mars, Alma Gamble, Doris Fuller and Laurel J. Thornton Brothers Peter Kimbrough, James Elmore and Jack Jackson. ECOLOGY, TEMPERANCE AND HEALTH: Revs. Darryl Ervin, Vicki L. Mayberry, Antioine V. Perrier, Patricia W. Smith, Michael Stanford and Richard L. Davis Sisters Vivian Giddins, Elsie Haley, Chris Morrow, Joyce Ray and Brother Guy Ginn. SOCIAL, CIVIL AND POLITICAL ACTION: Revs. Robert R. A. Turner, Levi Billups III, , Richard L. Davis , William E. Hamilton, Russell A. Jones, Betty C. Robinson and Jerry Wilder Sisters Lovell Edwards, Lavernice Garrett, Diane Carey and Shirley Mitchell Brothers Larry Searcy and Jessie Moore. The first name of each committee represents the Committee Chair, who is responsible for organizing. ___________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________ 23 | P a g e SEVENTH SESSION Southeast Alabama Annual Conference September 13 - 17, 2016 Johns Chapel AME Church 601 Geneva Highway, Enterprise, AL 36331 Reverend Trevor Woolridge, Host Pastor Reverend Johnny Rutledge, Host Presiding Elder SERMONS AND SERVICES WMS (Night in White) ANNUAL ………………..………………………......…. THE REV. CARLTON WORTHEN Pastor, St. John AME Church, Eufaula MID-DAY SERVICE (Wednesday) WOMEN IN MINISTRY MID-DAY WORSHIP SERVICE (Thursday) ORDINATION SERVICE (Thursday Night) SONS OF ALLEN MID-DAY WORSHIP SERVICE (Friday) LAY ORGANIZATION WORSHIP SERVICE (Friday Night) COMMISSIONING CLOSING BOARD OF EXAMINERS All Conference Presiding Elders serve as Advisors to the Board DEAN ……………………….………….. SECRETARY ……..……….…….……. ADMISSIONS …..……..……………. FIRST YEAR ………………………….. SECOND YEAR ………………….…… THIRD YEAR ………………..………… FOURTH YEAR ……………….………. MEMBERS OF THE BOARD ……… The Rev. Rodney D. Smith The Rev. LaKenya Anderson The Rev. Paul Phillips The Rev. Carlton Worthen The Rev. Rodney Smith The Rev. Freddie Flowers The Rev. Elijah Shafah The Revs. Frederick Sherrod and Ulysses Kincey MEMORIALS: Revs. Frederick Sherrod III, Joe Smith, Johnny C. Saffold, Timothy Holmes, Wendy Morgan and Frederick Walker Sisters Annie Youngblood, Sarah Mays, Christine Caldwell and Joyce Jones Brothers Jim Guildford, Adolphus Thompson and Dennis Bogen. MINISTERIAL EFFICIENCY: Revs. James Redding, Kenneth Rhodes, Rodney Smith, Freddie Flowers, Carlton Worthen, LaKenya Anderson, Johnny C. Saffold, Rodney Smith. JUDICIARY: Revs. David E. Reddick, Willie White, Jr., Paul Phillips, Trevor Woodridge and J. T. Hines. EMPLOYEE SECURITY COMMITTEE: Revs. Ulysses Kincey, Jr., Timothy Holmes, James Booth, Paul Horn, Jimmie E. Reeves, Warren Anderson and J. T. Hines Sisters Sheryl Whiting and Barbara McNealy Brothers John Davis and Joe Crossley. BUDGET COMMITTEE: Rev. Paul Phillips, Freddie Flowers and Ms. Fernesa “Nikki” Mills 24 | P a g e (Youth) Brother Johnny Knight. FINANCE COMMITTEE: To Be Elected CONFERENCE TRUSTEES: Revs. Oscar Lane, Freddie Flowers, Johnny Saffold and Charles Atkins Sister Mary Alice Walker. DEEDS, ABSTRACTS AND ABANDONED PROPERTY: Revs. Jimmie Reeves, Pamela Edwards, Paul Phillips, Kenneth Rhodes and Melissa Smith Sisters Linda Simpson, Janet Pray and Betty Johnson, Beverly Smith Brothers Marvin Martin, and Lorenzo Hammonds. CONFERENCE BOUNDARIES: Revs. J. T. Hines, Tony Price, Antonio James, Clementine Warren and Annie Mayes Sisters Emma Christian, Constance Brown and Kathleen Forbish Brothers Edward Register and Robert Campbell. PRESIDING ELDERS’ ASSESSMENT: Revs. Trevor Woodridge, Freddie Flowers, Elijah Shafah, Johnny C. Saffold, Paul Horn Sisters Emma Shaw, Kristie Balcom, Helen Grant Brothers Johnny Logan, Zack Allen and David White. DANIEL PAYNE COLLEGE BOARD OF TRUSTEES: Revs. Paul Phillips, David E. Reddick and Kenneth Rhodes Sister Helen Nichols Brother James Roberts. MISSIONS, CIRCUITS AND STATIONS: Revs. Freddie Flowers, Frederick Sherrod, J. T. Hines, Sisters Marge Simmons, Sheryl Whiting, Bernella Rose-Knight, Mary Walker, Geraldine Sanders and Helen Grant Brother Lonnie Hawkins (This committee must be prepared to make their report in unison with the Mirroring Study Committee) CHURCH GROWTH: Revs. Frederick Sherrod, LaKenya Anderson, Timothy Holmes, Jimmie Reeves, Kenneth Rhodes and James Williams Sisters Jewel Woodard and Elaine Flowers Brothers S. M. McLeod, Willie Green and Arthur Richardson. CHRISTIAN EDUCATION: Revs. LaKenya Anderson, Gregory Huff, Carlton Worthen and Elijah Shafah Sisters Lela Baker, Liz Flowers, Evadna Kincey and Tikisha Whitehurst Brother Myron Grimsley. CHURCH SCHOOL: Sister Faye McLeod and Brother Johnny Logan. WOMEN’S MISSIONARY SOCIETY: Rev. Sherita M. Seawright, Sisters Susie Bonner, Tammy Booth and Dorothy Sconiers-Bevel. LITERARY COMMITTEES STATE OF THE CHURCH: Revs. Paul Horn, Rodney Smith, Willie White, Jr., Johnny C. Saffold, J. T. Hines, Joshua Mann and Charles Atkins Sisters Laura Burnell, Mary Fleming and Betty Jackson Brother Michael Lightner. STATE OF THE COUNTRY: Revs. Johnny C. Saffold, Trevor Woodridge, Dwight Ingram, Marcus Sims and Celeste Adams, Sisters Sheala Foster, Annette McCain, Rometha Norton and Lakiesha Rankin Brother Thornton Warmack. ECOLOGY, TEMPERANCE AND HEALTH: Revs. James Redding, Gregory Huff, Pamela Edwards, Joshua Mann, Lasagne Smith, James Booth and Deborah Butler Sisters Mary Ann Davis, Dorothy James and Rometha Norton Brothers Ira Lewis and Adolphus Thompson. SOCIAL, CIVIL AND POLITICAL ACTION: Revs. Ulysses Kincey, Jr., Ronald Thompson, J. T. Hines, Willie Thompson, Johnnie Edison, Jr. and Clementine Warren Sisters Gwen Lampley and Lauree Cowart Brothers Ira Lewis and Dennis Bogen. The first name of each committee represents the Committee Chair, who is responsible for organizing. 25 | P a g e SEVENTH SESSION Alabama River Region Annual Conference October 4 – 8, 2016 St. Paul AME Church, Montgomery 706 East Patton Avenue, Montgomery, AL 36111 Reverend Dr. Farrell Duncombe, Host Pastor Reverend Albert L. Hyche, Host Presiding Elder SERMONS AND SERVICES WMS (Night in White) ANNUAL ………………..………………………...... THE REV. LEODIS STRONG Pastor, Brown Chapel AME Church, Selma MID-DAY SERVICE (Wednesday) WOMEN IN MINISTRY MID-DAY WORSHIP SERVICE (Thursday) ORDINATION SERVICE (Thursday Night) SONS OF ALLEN MID-DAY WORSHIP SERVICE (Friday) LAY ORGANIZATION WORSHIP SERVICE (Friday Night) COMMISSIONING CLOSING BOARD OF EXAMINERS All Conference Presiding Elders serve as Advisors to the Board DEAN ……………………….………….. SECRETARY …………….…….……. ADMISSIONS …..…………………. FIRST YEAR ……………………….. SECOND YEAR ………………….… The Rev. Yvonne Howze The Rev. Jessica Durr The Rev. Ruby Heard-Bustamonte The Rev. Agnes Lover The Rev. James E. Arnell FOURTH YEAR …………….………. The Rev. Dr. Farrell Duncombe MEMBERS OF THE BOARD…… The Rev. James E. Jackson MEMORIALS: Revs. George Cyrus, Terry McCreary and Dexter Patterson Sister Barbara Motley and Brother Jerry Pratt. MINISTERIAL EFFICIENCY: Revs. Dr. Farrell Duncombe, Agnes Lover, James E. Arnell, Leodis Strong, Ronnie Cook, Cynthia Jones and Vernon McLeod. JUDICIARY: Revs. Dr. Farrell Duncombe, Albert L. Hyche, James Arnell, John Leonard and Agnes Lover. EMPLOYEE SECURITY COMMITTEE: Revs. Leodis Strong, Vernon McLeod and Jessica Durr, Sisters Lois Brown and Shannon Fletcher Brothers Richard Bowden and Jimmie Lott. CONFERENCE TRUSTEES: Revs. James E. Arnell, Farrell Duncombe, John Leonard and Agnes Lover Brother Lamar Higgins. BUDGET COMMITTEE: Rev. Farrell Duncombe Sister Yvonne Saxon and Brother Quinton McGhee (Youth). 26 | P a g e FINANCE COMMITTEE: To Be Elected DEEDS, ABSTRACTS AND ABANDONED PROPERTY: Revs. John Leonard, Sandra Anderson, Xavier Beasley, James Jackson, Terry McCreary and Michael Roundtree, Sisters Ora Cummings, Brothers Lamar Higgins, Wendell Saxon and Dale Gamble. CONFERENCE BOUNDARIES: Revs. James E. Arnell, Ruby Heard-Bustamonte and Alex Nelms Sisters Linda McKinney and Melinda Page Brothers Lamar Higgins and Dale Gamble. PRESIDING ELDERS’ ASSESSMENT: Revs. James E. Arnell, Farrell Duncombe, Agnes Lover, James McCoy, Vernon McLeod and Leodis Strong, Sisters Doris Gant, Lois Brown and Hattie Bennett Brother Lamar Higgins. DANIEL PAYNE COLLEGE BOARD OF TRUSTEES: Revs. James E. Arnell and Albert Hyche Brothers Don Clemons, Richard Bowden and Andrew Hayden Sister Juanda Maxwell. MISSIONS, CIRCUITS AND STATIONS: Revs. Ruby Heard-Bustamonte, John Leonard, Cynthia Jones, LaChaune N. Slater and Sandra Anderson Sisters LaToya Kizito and Darlene Burt Brothers Don Clemons and Dale Gamble. (This committee must be prepared to make their report in unison with the Mirroring Study Committee) CHURCH GROWTH: Revs. Cynthia Jones, Valtoria Jackson, Grandville Anderson and John Leonard Sisters Sherry Harris and Tunda Ray Brother Clarence Seay. CHRISTIAN EDUCATION: Revs. Agnes Lover Sisters Cynthia Green, LaToya Kizito and Linda McKinney Brother Sawaski Jackson. CHURCH SCHOOL: Brothers Ira Simmons and Don Clemons. WOMEN’S MISSIONARY SOCIETY: Rev. Sherita M. Wright Sisters Joyce O’Neal, Djuana Wilson and Ann Clemons. LITERARY COMMITTEES STATE OF THE CHURCH: Revs. Yvonne Howze, Terry McCreary, Alex Nelms and James McCoy Sisters Ida James and Doris Ghant Brothers Ezekiel Price and Alfred Smith. STATE OF THE COUNTRY: Revs. Sheryl Shipman, Charles Boswell, LaChaune N. Slater and Valtoria Jackson Sisters Gladys Davis and Jeanette Johnson Brother Lamar Higgins. ECOLOGY, TEMPERANCE AND HEALTH: Revs. Cynthia Jones, Ronnie Cook, Dexter Patterson and Alex Nelms Sisters Ruby Gilbert and Melinda Page Brothers Sawaski Jackson and Don Clemons. SOCIAL, CIVIL AND POLITICAL ACTION: Revs. Farrell Duncombe, John Leonard, Grandville Anderson, Sandra Anderson and John Campbell Sisters Nettie Brown, Gladys Davis, and Bernice Rose Brothers Jackie Baker, Lamar Higgins and Clarence Seay. The first name of each committee represents the Committee Chair, who is responsible for organizing. 27 | P a g e SEVENTH SESSION Northeast Alabama Annual Conference October 11 - 15, 2016 Washington Chapel AME Church, Tuskegee 2508 Old Montgomery Road, Tuskegee, AL 36088 Reverend Andrew Holtz, Jr., Host Pastor Reverend Dr. Letitia Watford, Host Presiding Elder SERMONS AND SERVICES WMS (Night in White) ANNUAL ………………..………………………......…. THE REV. CHRISTOPHER REEVES Pastor, Persons Chapel AME Church, Midway MID-DAY SERVICE (Wednesday) WOMEN IN MINISTRY MID-DAY WORSHIP SERVICE (Thursday) ORDINATION SERVICE (Thursday Night) SONS OF ALLEN MID-DAY WORSHIP SERVICE (Friday) LAY ORGANIZATION WORSHIP SERVICE (Friday Night) COMMISSIONING CLOSING BOARD OF EXAMINERS All Conference Presiding Elders serve as Advisors to the Board DEAN ……………………….………….. SECRETARY …………….…..….……. ADMISSIONS …..………..…………. FIRST YEAR ………………………….. SECOND YEAR ……………………… THIRD YEAR …………….…………… FOURTH YEAR ……….………..……. MEMBERS OF THE BOARD ……… The Rev. Dr. Isaac N. Hudson, Jr. The Rev. Carmen Walker The Rev. Christopher Reeves The Rev. Brian Blackwell The Rev. Maurice Wright The Rev. Wayne L. Baker, Sr. The Rev. Nathaniel Copeland The Revs. Miriam Harlan, Eugene Johnson, Mattie Edwards and Jonathan Benton. MEMORIALS: The Revs. Willie Lyles, John Cofield, James Parker, Miriam Harlan, Tommy Person, Herbert Newsome, Sisters Tracy Day, Cheryl Perkins, Brothers Roger Harris and Arthur Rumph. MINISTERIAL EFFICIENCY: Revs. Nathaniel Copeland, Brunhilde Mitchell-Paul, Brian Blackwell, Isaac N. Hudson, Ronald Smith and Maurice Wright. JUDICIARY: Revs. Dr. Isaac N. Hudson, Jr., Letitia Watford, Alphonso Turner, Nathaniel Copeland and Thomas Fortson. EMPLOYEE SECURITY COMMITTEE: Revs. Jessie Grooms, Mattie Edwards, Kendra Jacobs, Brunhilde Mitchell-Paul Sisters Shelby Flakes and Doris Foster. BUDGET COMMITTEE: Revs. Christopher Reeves, Brian Blackwell, Sister Cordelia Moffett and Brother Vester Marable (Youth). 28 | P a g e FINANCE COMMITTEE: To Be Elected CONFERENCE TRUSTEES: Bishop Harry L. Seawright, Elders Samuel Smith, Letitia Watford, Revs. Wayne Baker, Jonathan Benton, Maurice Wright, II, Sisters Jewel Harris Irene James (secretary) and Rae Patrick Brother Robert Turner. DEEDS, ABSTRACTS AND ABANDONED PROPERTY: Revs. Jessie Grooms, Alphonso Turner, Eugene Johnson, Wayne Baker Sister Cattie Epps, Katherine Williams, Savannah Ivory, Brothers Eddie Willis, Quevis Crawford, Robert Turner. CONFERENCE BOUNDARIES: Revs. Jonathan Benton, Christopher Reeves, Debbie Dowdell, Sister Barbara Mitchell Brothers James Geddis, Bernard Thomas and Odies Perry. PRESIDING ELDERS’ ASSESSMENT: Revs. Nathaniel Copeland, Maurice Wright, Jesse Grooms, Isaac Hudson, Eugene Johnson, Willie Lyles, Andrew Holtz Sister Cordelia Moffett Brothers Kenneth Burton, Lenell Harris and George Hughley. DANIEL PAYNE COLLEGE BOARD OF TRUSTEES: Revs. Nathaniel Copeland, Sisters Barbara Mitchell, Cordelia B. Moffett Brothers Ernest Harris and James H. Patrick. MISSIONS, CIRCUITS AND STATIONS: Revs. Eugene Johnson, John Cofield, Willie Harley, and Patricia Walton Sisters Savannah Ivory and Brother William Laney, Jr. CHURCH GROWTH & EVANGELISM: Revs. Maurice Wright, II, Jonathan Benton and Monique Summers, Sisters Clara Jackson and Rosie Johnson, Brothers Calvin Sanders and Kenneth Burton. CHRISTIAN EDUCATION: Sister Hattie Nathan, Revs. Patricia Walton, Sarah Calhoun and Christine Thomas Sisters Rosie Johnson, Denise Word and Linda Murry Brother James Washington. CHURCH SCHOOL: Sisters Jewel Harris and Gloria Woods Brother Winston Felton. WOMEN’S MISSIONARY SOCIETY: Rev. Sherita M. Seawright, Sisters Stephanie Bender, Susie Bonner, Cattie Epps, Helen Crossley, Irene James, Vivian Lyles and Valerie Wright. LITERARY COMMITTEES STATE OF THE CHURCH: Revs. Christopher Reeves, Cynthia Johnson, James Levert, Charles Lewis, Sisters Donna Fletcher, Edna Hawkins and Savannah Ivory Brothers Winston Felton, Ennon Hayden, Stanford None and Robert Turner. STATE OF THE COUNTRY: Rev. Monique Summers, Carmen Walker, Isaac N. Hudson, Jr., and Brandon Thornton Sisters Alice Mahone and Gwen Moore Brothers Eddie Chapelle, M. L. Fortson and Willie Washington. ECOLOGY, TEMPERANCE AND HEALTH: Revs. Ronald Smith, Jonathan Benton, Jacqueline Bowie-Hayter, Kimberly Martin, Jerry Robinson, Melvin Stafford and Joretha Wright Sister Elaine Burton Brothers Jimmy Brown and Kenneth Burton. SOCIAL, CIVIL AND POLITICAL ACTION: Revs. Kendra Jacobs, Michael Miller, Sarah Calhoun and L. C. Green Sisters Jessie Smith and Cordelia Moffett Brothers William Laney and Artie Jenkins. The first name of each committee represents the Committee Chair, who is responsible for organizing. 29 | P a g e SEVENTH SESSION Southwest Alabama Annual Conference October 18 - 22, 2016 St. Paul AME Church, Mobile 1251 Rev. AT Days Street, Mobile, AL 36605 Reverend Robert J. Rumley, Host Pastor Reverend Johnnie M. Bryant, Host Presiding Elder SERMONS AND SERVICES WMS (Night in White) ANNUAL ………………..………………………......…. THE REV. BOBBY COX Pastor, Bethel AME Church, Mobile MID-DAY SERVICE (Wednesday) WOMEN IN MINISTRY MID-DAY WORSHIP SERVICE (Thursday) ORDINATION SERVICE (Thursday Night) SONS OF ALLEN MID-DAY WORSHIP SERVICE (Friday) LAY ORGANIZATION WORSHIP SERVICE (Friday Night) COMMISSIONING CLOSING BOARD OF EXAMINERS All Conference Presiding Elders serve as Advisors to the Board DEAN ……………………….………….. SECRETARY …………….……..……. ADMISSIONS …..…………….……. FIRST YEAR ……………..………….. SECOND YEAR ……………………… THIRD YEAR ……………….………… FOURTH YEAR ……….………..……. MEMBERS OF THE BOARD …….…… The Rev. Bobby B. Cox, Jr. The Rev. Rosalind Amos The Rev. Charlotte Greene The Rev. Cleitis Walker The Rev. John L. Dees The Rev. Dr. Lugenia Johnson The Rev. T. W. Parker The Revs. Marilyn King, James Harris & Ivory James MEMORIALS: The Revs. Dane Robinson, Jessie Rivers, Tommy Dorsey, Irmatine Chastang, Franklin Robinson, Carl L. Greene, Sr., Sisters Wanda McCall and Synetta Taylor Brothers Herman Gamble and Nolan Boykin. MINISTERIAL EFFICIENCY: Revs. Bobby Cox, Lugenia Johnson, Amos Smith, T. W. Parker, Marilyn King and Dane Robinson. JUDICIARY: Revs. John L. Dees, Johnnie Bryant, Marilyn King, Bobby B. Cox, Jr., W. W. Nixon and Amos Smith. EMPLOYEE SECURITY COMMITTEE: Revs. Cleitis Walker, Carl Martin, R. J. Rumley, W. W. Nixon, James Allen and Gladys Stallworth Sisters Everlean Banks and Jean Daffin Brothers Johnnie Campbell and Richard Boykins. BUDGET COMMITTEE: Rev. Cleitis Walker Sisters Everlean Banks and Kenesia T. Cade (Youth). CONFERENCE TRUSTEES: Revs. Bobby B. Cox, Jr., Ivory James, Johnnie Bryant, T. W. 30 | P a g e Parker, James Harris and Amos Smith Brother Robert Beasley. FINANCE COMMITTEE: To Be Elected DEEDS, ABSTRACTS AND ABANDONED PROPERTY: Revs. Amos Smith, Johnathan Baker, Wendell Jones, James Green, Lugenia Johnson, Ivory James Sisters Regina McCaskill and Elaine Taylor Brothers J. C. Lucas and John Smith. CONFERENCE BOUNDARIES: Revs. Antonio Thomas, Bobby B. Cox, Jr., Marilyn King, W. W. Nixon and Richard Collins Sisters Sarah Darnell and Mary Singleton, Brothers Nathaniel Hicks, Charlie Taylor and Shedrick Thomas. PRESIDING ELDERS’ ASSESSMENT: Revs. Bobby B. Cox, Jr., James Harris, Ivory James, Lugenia Johnson, T. W. Parker Sisters Cassandra Hughley, Hattie Boglin and Margaret Johnson Brothers Curtis Malone and Sergio Washington. DANIEL PAYNE COLLEGE BOARD OF TRUSTEES: Revs. Bobby B. Cox, Jr., Cleitis Walker, Amos Smith and Sisters Betty Davis, and Mary Toney. MISSIONS, CIRCUITS AND STATIONS: Revs. Bobby B. Cox, Jr, Dr. Lugenia Johnson, Mia Cole and Irmatine Barrie Sisters Lillie Robinson, Louise Bell and Gwen Washington Brother Ervin Simmons CHURCH GROWTH & EVANGELISM: Revs. Lugenia Johnson, Marilyn King, Rosalind Amos, E. Francine Constant and Wendell Jones Sister Monique Curtis Brothers Burl Bonner, Robert Sanders, Eddie Jones and John Howard. CHRISTIAN EDUCATION: Revs. Charlotte Greene and W.W. Nixon Sisters Kenesia Cade, Francine Davis, Sharon Kennedy and Arvella Young. CHURCH SCHOOL: Sister Mary M. Turner and Brother Ronnie Slaughter. MISSIONARY SOCIETY: Rev. Sherita M. Seawright Sisters Betty Davis, Sylvia Grace, Mary James and Deborah Weatherspoon. LITERARY COMMITTEES STATE OF THE CHURCH: Revs. W. W. Nixon, Antonio Thomas, Albert Robinson and Gladys Stallworth Sisters Urla Bioggan, Patricia Owens and Annie Ray Brother Shedrick Thomas. STATE OF THE COUNTRY: Revs. Marilyn King, Willie Denson, Donna James and Tommy Dorsey Sisters Cynthia Washington and Barbara Benjamin Brothers Burl Boykin Michael Clemmons. ECOLOGY, TEMPERANCE AND HEALTH: Revs. Franklin Robinson, Leo Taylor, LaDarrell Thames, Willie Denson and Willie Burns Sisters Lonnie Jones and Raven Whittaker Brothers Kenny Benjamin and John White. SOCIAL, CIVIL AND POLITICAL ACTION: Revs. T. W. Parker, R. J. Rumley, Lawrence O’Neal, James Allen and Dane Robinson Sisters Julia McCaskill and Mable Barron Brother Richard Jemison. The first name of each committee represents the Committee Chair, who is responsible for organizing. 31 | P a g e The Opening Worship Service THE DOXOLOGY (Tune - AME Hymnal #37 “Hursley”) Praise God, from whom all blessings flow; Praise Him all creatures here below; Praise Him above, ye heavenly host, Praise Father, Son and Holy Ghost. Amen. THE CALL TO WORSHIP Minister: People: Minister: People: Minister: People: Minister: People: I was glad when they said unto me, let us go into the house of the Lord, our feet shall stand within Your gates, O Jerusalem. For a day in Your courts is better than a thousand, I had rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God than to dwell in the tents of wickedness. Because of the house of the Lord, our God, I will seek Your good. Those that be planted in the house of the Lord, shall flourish in the courts of our God. Blessed are they that dwell in Your house Lord, I have loved Your habitation, the place where Your honor dwells. For the Lord is in His Holy Temple, let all the earth keep silence before Him. Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in Your sight. O Lord, my strength and my Redeemer. O sing unto the Lord a new song for He has done marvelous things. Make a joyful noise unto the Lord, all the earth and sing praises. THE OPENING PRAISE …………….………..……………“AND ARE WE YET ALIVE” (PG 45) PREPARATION FOR PRAYER …………..…… CONFERENCE CHOIR & CONGREGATION “YOU PRAY FOR ME” I pray for you, you pray for me and watch God change things I pray for you, you pray for me and watch God change things THE INVOCATION THE CHORAL RESPONSE …………………………..…………….……… “THANK YOU, LORD” Thank you, Lord, thank you, Lord, thank You, Lord - I just want to thank You, Lord. Been so good, been so good, been so good, I just want to thank You, Lord. Amen. THE WORSHIP THROUGH MUSIC THE SCRIPTURE READING THE PREFACE TO THE DECALOGUE………………………“FROM ALL THAT DWELLS” (Tune - A.M.E. Hymnal No. 69 – Woodworth) From all that dwell below the skies, let the Creator’s praise arise; Let the Redeemer’s name be sung, Through every land by every tongue. THE DECALOGUE (SUMMARY) Hear what Christ our savior says, you shall love the Lord Your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind. This is the first and great commandment. The second is like unto it. You shall love your neighbor as yourself. On these two commandments hang all the law and 32 | P a g e the prophets. THE GLORIA PATRI Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost; As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen, Amen. THE MISSION HYMN …………..… “ONLY WHAT YOU DO FOR CHRIST WILL LAST” You may build great cathedrals large or small, You can build sky scrapers grand and tall, You may conquer all the failures of the past, But only what you do for Christ will last. Remember only what you do for Christ will last. Remember only what you do for Christ will last. Only what you do for Him will be counted at the end; only what you do for Christ will last! You may seek earthly power and fame, the world might be impressed by your great name, Soon the glories of this life will all be past, But only what you do for Christ will last. Though you songs and prayers are heard and praised by man, they’ve no meaning unless you’ve been born again, Sinner, heed these words, don’t let this harvest pass, for only what you do for Christ will last. THE MISSION OFFERING THE WORSHIP THROUGH MUSIC THE PRESENTATION OF THE PREACHER THE SERMONIC HYMN……………….“I’VE A MESSAGE FROM THE LORD” (PG 45) THE ANNUAL SERMON THE INVITATION TO CHRISTIAN DISCIPLESHIP HYMN “I SURRENDER ALL” (PG 46) THE OFFERING (Finance Committee) THE CHANT ………………..………………..……………. “WE GIVE THEE BUT THINE OWN” (Tune - A.M.E. Hymnal No. 646 – St. Andrew) We give Thee but Thine own, Whate’er the gift may be; All that we have is Thine alone A trust, O Lord, from Thee. Amen. THE ACKNOWLEDGMENT OF VISITORS AND ANNOUNCEMENTS THE CONSECRATION HYMN …………………………“KING OF MY LIFE” (PG 47-48) 33 | P a g e THE HOLY COMMUNION SERVICE THE GENERAL CONFESSION Almighty God, Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, Maker of all things, Judge of all people, we acknowledge and bewail our manifold sins and wickedness which we from time to time most grievously have committed by thought, word and deed against Your Divine Majesty, provoking most justly your wrath and indignation against us. We do earnestly repent and are heartily sorry for these our misdoings; the remembrance of them is grievous unto us. Have mercy upon us, have mercy upon us, most merciful Father, for your Son our Lord Jesus Christ’s sake; forgive us all that is past, and grant that we may ever hereafter serve and please You in the newness of life, to the honor and glory of your name, through Jesus Christ our Lord. AMEN. THE COMMUNION HYMNS “KING OF MY LIFE” (PG 47-48) “WHEN I SURVEY THE WONDROUS CROSS” (PG 48) “HE WILL REMEMBER ME” (PG 48) “THERE’S ROOM AT THE CROSS FOR YOU” (PG 48) “DOWN AT THE CROSS” (PG 49) “AT THE CROSS” (PG 49) THE FELLOWSHIP SONG ………………………………………… “WHAT A FELLOWSHIP” What a fellowship, what a joy divine, Leaning on the everlasting arms; What a blessedness, what a peace is mine, Leaning on the everlasting arms. Leaning, leaning, safe and secure from all alarms; Leaning, leaning, leaning on the everlasting arms. O how sweet to walk in this pilgrim way, Leaning on the everlasting arms; O how bright the path grows from day to day, Leaning on the everlasting arms. What have I to dread, what have I to fear, Leaning on the everlasting arms; I have blessed peace with my Lord so near, Leaning on the everlasting arms. THE BENEDICTION 34 | P a g e The Ordination Service THE PROCESSIONAL……………………..….……“WE’RE MARCHING TO ZION” (PG 50-51) THE DOXOLOGY (Tune – AME Hymnal #37 – Hursley) Praise God, from whom all blessings flow; Praise Him all creatures here below; Praise Him above, ye heavenly host, Praise Father, Son and Holy Ghost. Amen. THE CALL TO WORSHIP Minister: People: Minister: People: Minister: People: Minister: People: God calls us out of our sameness and boxed living to a new perspective and way in God. We come to this worship out of tradition but not locked in it. God calls us to worship with freshness because God’s mercies are new every day. We come giving praise for what God has done and expecting to see God’s new mercy for us today. Will you worship today standing on the tiptoe of a Holy Spirit renaissance? Yes, we come in excitement to be in the living presence of God. How shall we begin? By declaring Holy Spirit you are welcome in this place, have your way. THE OPENING PRAISE …….….…... “COME, HOLY SPIRIT, HEAVENLY DOVE” (PG 50-51) PREPARATION FOR PRAYER …………………………... CHOIR AND CONGREGATION “EVERY TIME I FEEL THE SPIRIT” Ev’ry time I feel the Spirit moving in my heart, I will pray. Ev’ry time I feel the Spirit moving in my heart, I will pray. THE PRAYER OF INVOCATION THE CHORAL RESPONSE ………………….………….………… “SWEET HOLY SPIRIT” Sweet heavenly Dove, Stay right here with us, Filling us with Your love; And for these blessings We lift our hearts in praise; Without a doubt we’ll know that we have been revived When we shall leave this place. THE WORSHIP THROUGH MUSIC THE SCRIPTURE The Epistle – I Timothy 3:8-13 (Deacon) Deacons likewise must be serious, not double tongued, not indulging in much wine, not greedy for money; they must hold fast to the mystery of faith with a clear conscience. And let them first be tested; if they prove themselves blameless, let them serve as deacons. Let deacons be married only once, and let them manage their children and households well; for those who serve well as deacons gain a good standing for themselves and great boldness in the faith that is in Christ Jesus. The Epistle – Ephesians 4:7-13 (Elder) But each of us was given grace according to the measure of Christ’s gift. Therefore it is said, ‘When he ascended on high he made captivity itself a captive; he gave gifts to his people.’ (When it says, ‘He ascended,’ what does it mean but that he had also descended into the lower parts of the earth? He who descended is the same one who ascended far above all the heavens, so that he might fill all things.) The gifts he gave were that some would be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, some pastors and teachers, to 35 | P a g e equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ, until all of us come to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to maturity, to the measure of the full stature of Christ. THE GLORIA PATRI THE WORSHIP THROUGH GIVING (FINANCE COMMITTEE) THE WORSHIP THROUGH MUSIC THE PRESENTATION OF THE PREACHER THE SERMONIC HYMN ……………..….……. “O THOU IN WHOSE PRESENCE” (PG 51) THE ORDINATION SERMON THE INVITATION TO CHRISTIAN DISCIPLESHIP “WE OFFER CHRIST TO YOU” We offer Christ to you, oh, my brother, We offer Christ to you, oh, my sister. He will give you brand new life Through life abundantly; Oh come, come on to Christ. THE ORDINATION OF DEACONS Elder: Bishop ___________, I present to you these person(s) to be admitted deacon(s). Bishop: Take heed that the persons whom you present to us be apt and meet, by their godly conversation, to exercise their ministry duly to the honor of God and the edifying of the Church. Elder: I have inquired concerning them, and also examined them, and think them so to be. The name(s) being read aloud, the bishop shall say to the people: Bishop: Members of the Conference, If there be any of you who know any impediment or crime in any of these person(s) presented to be ordained deacon(s) for which they ought not be admitted to that office, let them come forth in the name of God and show what the crime or impediment is. Elder: The Collect Almighty God, who by your Divine Providence has appointed diverse orders of ministers of your Church, and did inspire your Apostles, to choose to the order of deacons the first martyr, St. Stephen, with others, mercifully behold these your servants now called to the like office and administration; replenish them so with the truth of your doctrine and adorn them with the innocence of life that both by word and good example they may faithfully serve you in this office to the glory of your holy name, and the edification of your Church, through the merits of our Savior Jesus Christ who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit now and forever. Amen. Then shall the bishop examine every one that is to be ordained, in the presence of the people, in the following manner: Bishop Do you trust that you are inwardly moved by the Holy Spirit to take upon you the Office of the Ministry in the Church of Christ, to serve God for the promotion of his glory, and the edifying of his people? Candidate: I trust so. Bishop: Do you believe unfeigned all the canonical Scriptures of the Old and New Testaments? 36 | P a g e Candidate: I do believe them. Bishop: Will you diligently read and expound the same unto the people whom you shall be appointed to serve? Candidate: I will. Bishop: It appertains to the office of a deacon to assist the elder in Divine Service. And especially when he or she administers the Holy Communion, to help him or her in the distribution thereof and to read and expound the Holy Scriptures; to instruct the youths, and in the absence of the elder, to baptize. And furthermore, it is his or her office to search for the sick, poor and impotent, that they may be visited and relieved. Will you do this gladly and willingly? Candidate: I will do so, by the help of God. Bishop: Will you frame and fashion your own lives and the lives of your families according to the doctrine of Christ and to make both yourselves and them, as much as in you lies, wholesome examples of the flock of Christ? Candidate: I will do so, the Lord being my helper. Bishop: Will you reverently obey them to whom the charge and government over you is committed, following with a glad mind and will their godly admonition? Candidate: I will endeavor to do so, the Lord being my helper. Then shall the bishop, laying his hand upon every one of them severally, say: Bishop: Take your authority to execute the office of a deacon in the Church of God in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen. Then shall the bishop, Deliver to every one of them the Holy Bible: saying Bishop: Take thou authority to read the Scriptures, and to preach the same in the Church of God in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Then one of the elders, appointed by the bishop, shall read the Gospel, Luke 12:35-38: Elder: Be dressed for action and have your lamps lit; be like those who are waiting for their master to return from the wedding banquet, so that they may open the door for him as soon as he comes and knocks. Blessed are those slaves whom the master finds alert when he comes; truly I tell you, he will fasten his belt and have them sit down to eat, and he will come and serve them. If he comes during the middle of the night, or near dawn, and finds them so, blessed are those slaves. Then shall the bishop proceed in the Communion, and all shall receive the Holy Communion. The Communion ended, immediately before the benediction shall be said the following Collects: Bishop: The Collects Almighty God, giver of all good things, who of your great goodness has vouchsafed to accept and take these your servants into the office of deacon of your Church; make them, we beseech you, O Lord, to be modest, humble, and consistent in their ministration, and to have a ready 37 | P a g e will to observe all spiritual discipline; that they, having always the testimony of a good conscience, and continuing ever stable and strong in your Son Jesus Christ, may so well behave themselves in this inferior office, that they may be found worthy to be called to the higher ministries of the church, through the same, your Son and our Savior Jesus Christ, to whom be the glory, and honor world without end. Amen. Direct us, O Lord, in all our doings with your most gracious favor, and further us with your continued help, that in all our works, begun, continued, and ended in you, we may glorify your holy name and finally by your mercy, obtain everlasting life through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. The peace of God, which passes all understanding, keep your hearts and minds in the knowledge and love of God, and of his Son Jesus Christ our Lord, and the blessings of God Almighty the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit, be among you, and remain with you always. Amen. THE ORDINATION OF ELDERS Bishop ___________, I present to you this person/these to be ordained elder(s). Elder: persons Bishop: Take heed that the person(s) whom you present to us be apt and meet, by their godly conversation, to exercise their ministry duly to the honor of God and the edifying of the Church. Elder: I have inquired concerning them, and also examined them, and think them so to be. Then, their names being read aloud, the bishop shall say to the people: Bishop: Members of the Conference, these are they whom we propose, God willing, this day to ordain elders; for after due examination we find not the contrary, but that they are lawfully called to this function and ministry, and that they are persons meet for the same. But if there be any of you who knows any impediment or crime in any of them, for which they ought not be received into this holy ministry, let them come forth in the name of God and show what the crime or impediment is. The Collect Almighty God, giver of all good things, who by the Holy Spirit has appointed diverse orders of ministers in your Church, mercifully behold these your servants now called to the office of elder(s) and replenish them with the innocence of life, that both by word and good example they may faithfully serve you this office to the glory of your name and the edification of your Church, through the merits of our Savior Jesus Christ, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, world without end. Amen. And that done, the bishop shall say to them as hereafter follows: Bishop: You have heard, as well in your private examination as in the exhortation which was just made to you, and in the writings of the apostles, of what dignity and of how great importance this office is, to which you are now called. And how again we exhort you in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ that you have in remembrance into how high a dignity and to how weighty an office you are called; that is to say to be messengers, watchers, and stewards of the Lord; to teach and to admonish, to feed and provide for the Lord’s family; to seek for Christ’s sheep that are dispersed abroad, and for his 38 | P a g e children who are in the midst of this evil world, that they may be saved through Christ forever. Have always, therefore, printed in your remembrance how great treasure is committed to your charge. For they are the sheep of Christ which he bought with his death, and for whom he shed his blood. The church and congregation, whom you must serve, are his Spouse, and his Body. And if it should happen the same church or any member thereof, do take any hurt or hindrance by reason of your negligence, you know the greatness of the fault, and also the horrible punishment that will ensue. Wherefore consider within yourselves the end of the ministry towards the children of God, towards the Spouse and Body of Christ, and see that you never cease your labor, your care, and diligence until you have done all that lies in you, according to your bounden duty, to bring all such as are or shall be committed to your charge unto that agreement in the faith, and to that ripeness and perfectness of age in Christ, that there may be no place left among you, either for error in religion or for viciousness in life. Bishop: Forasmuch then as your office is both of so great excellence, and of so great difficulty, you see with how great awe and study you ought to apply yourselves, as neither you yourselves offend, nor be occasion that others offend. Howbeit ye cannot have a mind and will thereunto of yourselves for that will and ability are given of God alone; therefore you ought, and have need, to pray earnestly for His Holy Spirit. And seeing that you cannot by any other means compass the doing of so weighty a work pertaining to the salvation of people, with doctrine and exhortation taken out of the Holy Scriptures, and with a life agreeable to the same, consider how studious you ought to be in reading and learning the Scriptures and in framing the manners both of yourselves and of them that specially pertain to you, according to the rules of the same Scriptures; and for this self-same cause how you ought to forsake and set aside as much as you may all worldly care and studies. We have good hope that you have all weighed and pondered these things with yourselves long before this time; and that you have clearly determined by God’s grace to give yourselves to this office whereby it has pleased God to call you, so that as much as lies within you, you will apply yourselves wholly to this one thing and draw all your cares and studies this way, and that you will continually pray to God the Father by the mediation of our only Savior Jesus Christ, of the heavenly assistance of the Holy Spirit; that by daily reading and weighing of the Scripture you may wax riper and stronger in your ministry, and that you may so endeavor yourselves, from time to time, to sanctify the lives of you and yours, and to fashion them after the rule and doctrine of Christ that you may be wholesome and goodly examples and patterns for the people to follow. And now that this present congregation of Christ here assembled may also understand your minds and wills in these things, and that this your promise may the more move you to do your duties, you shall answer plainly to these things which we, in the name of God and his Church, shall demand of you touching the same. Bishop: Do you think in your heart that you are truly called, according to the will of our Lord Jesus Christ, to the order of elder? Candidate: I do so believe. 39 | P a g e Bishop: Are you persuaded that the Holy Scriptures contain sufficiently all doctrines required of necessity for eternal salvation through faith in Jesus Christ? Are you determined out of the said Scriptures to instruct the people committed to your charge, and to teach nothing, as required of necessity to salvation, but that which you shall be persuaded may be conducted and proved by Scriptures? Candidate: I am so persuaded, and have so determined by God’s grace. Bishop: Will you then give faithful diligence always so to minister the doctrine and sacraments and discipline of Christ as the Lord hath commanded? Candidate: I will do so, by the help of the Lord. Bishop: Will you be ready with faithful diligence always to banish and drive away all erroneous and strange doctrines contrary to God’s Word, and to use both public and private monitions and exhortations as well to the sick as to the whole within your charge as need shall require and occasion shall be given? Candidate: I will, the Lord being my helper. Bishop: Will you be diligent in prayer and in reading of the Holy Scriptures, and in such studies as help to the knowledge of the same, laying aside the study of the world and the flesh? Candidate: I will endeavor so to do; the Lord being my helper. Bishop: Will you be diligent to frame and fashion yourselves and your families according to the doctrine of Christ and to make both yourselves and them, as much as in you lies, wholesome examples and patterns to the flock of Christ? Candidate: I shall apply myself thereto, the Lord being my helper. Bishop: Will you maintain and set forth, as much as lies in you, sweetness, peace and love among all Christian people, and especially among them that are or shall be committed to your charge? Candidate: I will do so, the Lord being my helper. Bishop: Will you reverently obey your chief ministers to whom is committed the charge and government over you, following with a glad mind and will their godly admonitions, submitting yourselves to their godly judgments? Candidate: I will do so, the Lord being my helper. Then shall the bishop say: Almighty God, who has given you this will to do all these things, grant also unto you strength and power to perform the same, that He may accomplish His work, which He has begun, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. After which shall be said by the bishop (the persons to be ordained elders all kneeling), Veni Creator Spiritus (Latin: Come Creator Spirit), the bishop beginning and the elders and others that are present answering by verse as follows: Bishop: Response: Bishop: Response: Bishop: Response: Bishop: Come Holy Ghost, our hearts inspire And lighten with celestial fire; Thou the anointing Spirit art Who doth thy sevenfold gifts impart Thy blessed unction from above Is comfort, light, and fire of love. Enable with perpetual light 40 | P a g e Response: Bishop: Response: Bishop: Response: Bishop: Response: Bishop: Response: Bishop: Response: The dullness of our blinded sight. Anoint and cheer our soiled face With the abundance of thy grace. Keep far our foes; give peace at home, Where thou art guide, no ill can come. Teach us to know the Father, Son, And thee of both to be but one! That through the ages all along This may be our endless song: Praise to Thy eternal merit, Father, Son and Holy Spirit. That done, the bishop shall pray saying: Let Us Pray Almighty God, Heavenly Father, who of your infinite love and goodness towards us has given us your only and most dearly beloved Son, Jesus Christ, to be our Redeemer and the author of everlasting life; who, after he had made perfect our redemption by his death and was ascended into the heaven, sent abroad into the world his apostles, prophets, evangelists, teachers, and pastors by whose labor and ministry he gathered together a great flock in all parts of the world, to set forth the eternal praise of your holy name; for these so great benefits of your eternal goodness, and for that you have vouchsafed to call these your servants here present to the same office and ministry appointed for the salvation of mankind, we render to you most hearty thanks; we praise and worship you, and we humbly beseech you by your same blessed Son to grant to all, who either here or elsewhere call upon your name, that we may continue to show ourselves thankful to you of these and all your other benefits, and that we may daily increase and go forward in the knowledge and faith of you and your Son, by the Holy Spirit. So that as well by these your ministers as by them over whom they shall be appointed your ministers that your holy name may be forever glorified and your blessed kingdom enlarged through the same, your Son Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you in unity of the same Holy Spirit, world without end. Amen. After this prayer, the bishop with seven elders present shall lay their hands severally upon the head of everyone that receives the order of elder, the receivers humbly kneeling upon their knees, and the bishop saying: Bishop: The Lord pour upon you the Holy Spirit for the office and work of an elder in the Church of God, now committed to you by the imposition of our hands. Be a faithful dispenser of the Word of God and of His holy sacraments in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen. The bishop shall deliver to each of them kneeling the Bible into his or her hands, saying: Bishop: Take thou authority to preach the word of God and to administer the holy sacrament in the congregation in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. The bishop shall go on with the service of the Communion, which all they who receive orders shall take together and remain in the same place where hands were laid upon them until such time as they have received the Communion. 41 | P a g e THE HOLY COMMUNION SERVICE THE GENERAL CONFESSION Almighty God, Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, Maker of all things, Judge of all people, we acknowledge and bewail our manifold sins and wickedness which we from time to time most grievously have committed by thought, word and deed against Your Divine Majesty, provoking most justly your wrath and indignation against us. We do earnestly repent and are heartily sorry for these our misdoings; the remembrance of them is grievous unto us. Have mercy upon us, have mercy upon us, most merciful Father, for your Son our Lord Jesus Christ’s sake; forgive us all that is past, and grant that we may ever hereafter serve and please You in the newness of life, to the honor and glory of your name, through Jesus Christ our Lord. AMEN. THE COMMUNION HYMNS “KING OF MY LIFE” (PG 51) “WHEN I SURVEY THE WONDROUS CROSS” (PG 52) “HE WILL REMEMBER ME” (PG 52) “THERE’S ROOM AT THE CROSS FOR YOU” (PG 52) “DOWN AT THE CROSS” (PG 52-53) “AT THE CROSS” (PG 53) THE CONSECRATION THE SHARING OF THE ELEMENTS THE LORD’S PRAYER The Communion being done, after the last Collects and immediately before the Benediction, shall be said these Collects: COLLECTS Bishop: Most merciful Father, we beseech you to send upon these your servants your heavenly blessings that they may be clothed with righteousness and that the word spoken by their mouths may never be spoken in vain. Grant, also, that we may have grace to hear and receive what they shall deliver out of Your most holy Word; or agreeably to the same, as the means of our salvation; and that in all our words and deeds may seek the glory and the increase of your kingdom through Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen. Bishop: Direct us, O Lord, in all our doings, with your most gracious favor; and further us with your continual help that in all our works begun, continued, and ended in thee we may glorify your holy name, and finally by your mercy obtain everlasting life through Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen. The peace of God which passes understanding keep your hearts and minds in the knowledge and love of God and of his Son, Jesus Christ, our Lord; and the blessing of God Almighty the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, be among you and remain with you always. Amen. 42 | P a g e THE FELLOWSHIP SONG ………………………………………… “WHAT A FELLOWSHIP” What a fellowship, what a joy divine, Leaning on the everlasting arms; What a blessedness, what a peace is mine, Leaning on the everlasting arms. Leaning, leaning, safe and secure from all alarms; Leaning, leaning, leaning on the everlasting arms. O how sweet to walk in this pilgrim way, Leaning on the everlasting arms; O how bright the path grows from day to day, Leaning on the everlasting arms. What have I to dread, what have I to fear, Leaning on the everlasting arms; I have blessed peace with my Lord so near, Leaning on the everlasting arms. THE BLESSING OF THE BENEDICTION 43 | P a g e The Retirement Celebration Service THE STATEMENT OF PURPOSE We come now in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit to give God the praise for the life and labors of this/these preacher(s) who is/are retiring from the itinerancy and to acknowledge his/her/their service in the ministry of the church. THE INVOCATION Let us pray. Direct us, O Lord, in all our doings, with your most gracious favor, and further us with your continual help, that in all our works, begun, continued, and ended in you, we may glorify your Holy Name, and finally by your mercy obtain everlasting life, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. THE PRESENTATION OF PREACHER(S) Reverend Father in God, the _____ Annual Conference desires formally to recognize at this session the completion of the active service of _____ of its ministers. As Secretary of the Annual Conference, I present unto you these faithful ministers for this service of recognition and honor, in appreciation of their untiring labors in the Christian ministry. THE RESPONSE “He that goeth forth and weepeth, bearing precious seed, shall doubtless come again with rejoicing, bringing his sheaves with him.” Psalm 126:6 THE TESTIMONIES TO THE LIFE OF MINISTRY THE RESPONSE AND EXPRESSIONS FROM THE RETIREES THE MESSAGE OF TRIBUTE Beloved, the record of your active ministry is written. It is written in the records of God. Your Church is deeply grateful for your ministry and for the care which you have exercised in faithfully fulfilling your vows of ordination. May the precious memories of your years of sacrificial service and fruitful labor be blessed and hallowed. And now, as you yield your official responsibilities in the active ministry of the African Methodist Episcopal Church, be assured that the years that are yet to be, may be filled with good works and become the crown of all your ministry, bringing glory and honor to you and to the Church. The congregation of which you will be a member will look to you for spiritual guidance and godly example. Your brethren in the ministry will continue to seek and respect your counsel. They will annually listen for your answer to the Roll Call of the Conference. THE SOLO: IT IS WELL THE FINAL WORD OF APPRECIATION & THE BISHOP’S BLESSING 44 | P a g e The Memorial Moment Service THE CALL TO PRAISE THE HYMN OF PRAISE THE PRAYER THE SCRIPTURE THE SELECTION THE PRESENTATION OF NAMES OF THOSE BEING MEMORIALIZED WORDS OF REMEMBRANCE THE LORD’S PRAYER THE EXPRESSIONS FROM THE BISHOP THE BENEDICTION In Loving Memory NORTHWEST CONFERENCE SOUTHEAST CONFERENCE ALABAMA RIVER REGION CONFERENCE NORTHEAST CONFERENCE SOUTHWEST CONFERENCE Rest in Peace, Servants! * PRESIDING ELDERS – PLEASE NOTIFY THE FAMILIES OF THIS SERVICE 45 | P a g e The Closing Worship Service THE PRAISE AND WORSHIP THE DOXOLOGY Praise God, from Whom all blessings flow; Praise Him, all creatures here below; Praise Him above, ye heavenly host, Praise Father, Son and Holy Ghost. Amen. THE CALL TO WORSHIP Minister: People: Minister: People: Minister: People: We give thanks within his holy sanctuary. For the blessings of life and the strength of God’s love, we worship our God. We sing as a people who have the joy of Jesus in our lives. For the goodness of his grace and the power of his mercy, we sing hallelujah to the Lamb. So let us celebrate the liberation we have in God’s divine spirit. Give thanks with a triumphant voice and worship in spirit and truth. THE OPENING PRAISE …………….……..….... “WE’LL PRAISE THE LORD” (PG 54) PREPARATION FOR PRAYER ……………“IT’S ME, STANDING IN THE NEED OF PRAYER” It’s me, it’s me, O Lord, Standin’ in the need of prayer; It’s me, it’s me, O Lord, Standin’ in the need of prayer. THE PRAYER OF INVOCATION THE CHORAL RESPONSE ………………………………………..…“PRAISE HIM” Praise Him! Praise Him! Praise Him! Praise Him! Jesus, blessed Savior He’s worthy to be praised. THE WORSHIP THROUGH MUSIC THE SCRIPTURE READINGS THE GLORIA PATRI Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost; As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen, Amen. THE MISSION OFFERING What shall I render unto God for all His blessings? What shall I render, (Tell me) What shall I give? God has ev’ry thing; Ev’ry thing belongs to Him. God has ev’ry thing; Ev’ry thing belongs to Him. What shall I render, Tell me what shall I give? THE CHANT ………………..……………………………..……………. “ALL THINGS COME OF THEE” (Tune - A.M.E. Hymnal No. 644) All things come of Thee, O Lord; and of Thine own have we given Thee. Amen. THE SERMONIC HYMN ……………………………….“BLESSED ASSURANCE” (PG 54) THE PROCLAMATION OF THE WORD THE INVITATION TO CHRISTIAN DISCIPLESHIP 46 | P a g e “WE OFFER CHRIST TO YOU” We offer Christ to you, oh, my brother, We offer Christ to you, oh, my sister. He will give you brand new life Through life abundantly; Oh come, come on to Christ. THE WORSHIP THROUGH OFFERING (Finance Committee) THE ACKNOWLEDGMENT OF VISITORS & EXPRESSIONS OF APPRECIATION THE RESOLUTIONS THE FINANCE REPORT The Commissioning Service THE HYMN……………………………….………… “A CHARGE TO KEEP I HAVE” (PAGE 54) THE PRESENTATION OF CERTIFICATES THE PRAYER THE SCRIPTURE – (II TIMOTHY 4:1-5) THE DISPATCHING HYMN ………………...…“GO, PREACH MY GOSPEL” (PG.54-55) THE READING OF APPOINTMENTS “TILL WE MEET AGAIN” Till we meet, till we meet, Till we meet at Jesus’ feet; Till we meet, till we meet; God be with you till we meet again. Amen. THE BENEDICTION 47 | P a g e The Annual Conference Singing AN D AR E W E Y E T AL I V E And are we yet alive, And see each other’s face? Glory and praise to Jesus give, For His redeeming grace! Preserved by power divine, To full salvation here, Again in Jesus’ praise we join, And in His sight appear. What troubles have we seen, What conflicts have we passed, Fightings without, and fears within, Since we assembled last. But out of all the Lord, Hath brought us by His love; And still He doth His help afford, And hides our life above. Then let us make our boast, Of His redeeming power, Which saves us to the uttermost, Till we can sin no more. O N L Y W H AT Y O U D O F O R C H R I S T W I L L L AS T You may build great cathedrals large or small, You can build sky scrapers grand and tall, You may conquer all the failures of the past, But only what you do for Christ will last. Remember only what you do for Christ will last. Remember only what you do for Christ will last. Only what you do for Him will be counted at the end; only what you do for Christ will last! You may seek earthly power and fame, the world might be impressed by your great name, Soon the glories of this life will all be past, But only what you do for Christ will last. Though you songs and prayers are heard and praised by man, they’ve no meaning unless you’ve been born again, Sinner, heed these words, don’t let this harvest pass, for only what you do for Christ will last. H O W F I RM A F O U N D AT I O N How firm a foundation, ye saints of the Lord, Is laid for your faith in His excellent Word! What more can He say than to you He hath said, You, who unto Jesus for refuge have fled? In every condition, in sickness, in health; In poverty’s vale, or abounding in wealth; At home and abroad, on the land, on the sea, As thy days may demand, shall thy strength ever be. Fear not, I am with thee, O be not dismayed, For I am thy God and will still give thee aid; I’ll strengthen and help thee, and cause thee to stand Upheld by My righteous, omnipotent hand. The soul that on Jesus has leaned for repose, I will not, I will not desert to its foes; That soul, though all hell should endeavor to shake, I’ll never, no never, no never forsake. 48 | P a g e I SURRENDER ALL All to Jesus I surrender, All to Him I freely give; I will ever love and trust Him, In His presence daily live. I surrender all, I surrender all. All to Thee, my blessed Savior, I surrender all. All to Jesus I surrender, Humbly at His feet I bow, Worldly pleasures all forsaken, Take me, Jesus, take me now. All to Jesus I surrender, Make me, Savior, wholly Thine; May Thy Holy Spirit fill me, May I know Thy power divine. All to Jesus I surrender, Lord I give myself to Thee; Fill me with Thy love and power, Let Thy blessing fall on me. All to Jesus I surrender, Now I feel the sacred flame; O the joy of full salvation! Glory, glory to His name. WE’RE MARCHING TO ZION Come, we that love the Lord, And let our joys be known, Join in a song with sweet accord, Join in a song with sweet accord, And thus surround the throne, And thus surround the throne. We’re marching to Zion, Beautiful, beautiful Zion; We’re marching upward to Zion, The beautiful city of God. Let those refuse to sing Who never knew our God; But children of the heavenly King, But children of the heavenly King, May speak their joys abroad, May speak their joys abroad. The hill of Zion yields A thousand sacred sweets Before we reach the heavenly fields, before we reach the heavenly fields, Or walk the golden streets, Or walk the golden streets. Then let our songs abound, And every tear be dry; We’re marching through Immanuel’s ground, We’re marching through Immanuel’s ground, To fairer worlds on high, To fairer worlds on high. COME , HOLY SPIRIT, HE AV ENLY DOVE Come, Holy Spirit, heavenly Dove, With all Thy quickening powers; Kindle a flame of sacred love In these cold hearts of ours. Look how we grovel here below, Fond of these earthly toys; Our souls, how heavily they go. To reach eternal joys. In vain we tune our formal songs, In vain we strive to rise; Hosannas languish on our tongues, And our devotion dies. Father, and shall we ever live At this poor dying rate, Our love so faint, so cold to thee, And Thine to us so great! Come, Holy Spirit, heavenly Dove, With all Thy quickening powers; Come, shed abroad a Savior’s love, And that shall kindle ours. Amen. O THOU IN WHOSE PRESENCE O Thou, in whose presence my soul takes delight, On whom in affliction I call, My comfort by day and my song in the night, My hope, my salvation, my all! Where dost thou, dear Shepherd, resort with Thy sheep, 49 | P a g e To feed them in pastures of love? Say, why in the valley of death Should I weep, Or alone in this wilderness rove? O why should I wander, an alien from Thee, Or cry in the desert for bread? Thy foes will rejoice when my sorrows they see, And smile at the tears I have shed. He looks! And ten thousands of angels rejoice, And myriads wait for His word; He speaks! And eternity, filled with His voice; Reechoes the praise of the Lord. Dear Shepherd, I hear, and will follow Thy call; I know the sweet sound of Thy voice. Restore and defend me, For Thou art my all, And in Thee I will ever rejoice. Amen. COMMUNION HYMNS KING OF MY LIFE King of my life, I crown Thee now, Thine shall the glory be; Lest I forget Thy thorn-crowned brow, Lead me to Calvary. Lest I forget Gethsemane; Lest I forget Thine agony; Lest I forget Thy love for me, Lead me to Calvary. Show me the tomb where Thou wast laid, Tenderly mourned and wept; Angels in robes of light arrayed Guarded Thee whilst Thou slept. Let me like Mary, through the gloom, Come with a gift to Thee; Show to me now the empty tomb, Lead me to Calvary. May I be willing, Lord, to bear Daily my cross for Thee; Even Thy cup of grief to share, Thou hast borne all for me. WHEN I SURVEY THE WONDROUS CROSS When I survey the wondrous cross On which the Prince of Glory died, My richest gain I count but loss, And pour contempt on all my pride. Forbid it, Lord, that I should boast, Save in the death of Christ my God; All the vain things that charm me most, I sacrifice them to His blood. See from His head, His hands, His feet, Sorrow and love flow mingled down! Did e’er such love and sorrow meet, Or thorns compose so rich a crown? Were the whole realm of nature mine, That were an offering too small; Love so amazing, so divine, Demands my soul, my life, my all. HE WILL REMEMBER ME When on the cross of Calvary The Lord was crucified, The Mob stood ‘round about Him, And mocked until He died. Two thieves were nailed beside Him, To share the agony, But one of them cried out to Him, “O Lord remember me.” Will the Lord remember me When I am called to go? When I have crossed death’s chilly sea Will He His love there show? O, yes, He heard my feeble cries, From bondage set me free; And when I reach the pearly gates, He will remember me. O, what a shame to kill Him There on that rugged cross; But such a death was needed To rescue all the lost. His blood was made a ransom To set the captives free; I know that I’m included and He will remember me. 50 | P a g e At His dear feet I’m kneeling, My sins I now confess; I bow in deep repentance, My soul He’ll surely bless. My blinded eyes He opens So that the light I see; And when I reach the pearly gates He will remember me. THERE’S ROOM AT THE CROSS The cross upon which Jesus died Is a shelter in which we can hide. And its grace so free Is sufficient for me And deep is its fountain as wide as the sea. There's room at the cross for you, There's room at the cross for you Tho’millions have come, There's still room for one Yes, there's room at the cross for you. Tho’ millions have found him a friend, And have turned from the sins they have sinned The Savior still waits To open the gates And welcome a sinner before it's too late. The hand of my Savior is strong, And the love of my Savior is long; Through sunshine or rain, Through loss or in gain, The blood flows from Calv’ry to cleanse ev’ry stain. DOWN AT THE CROSS Down at the cross where my Savior died, Down where for cleansing from sin I cried, There to my heart was the blood applied; Glory to His Name! Glory to His Name, Glory to His Name: There to my heart was the blood applied; Glory to His Name! I am so wondrously saved from sin, Jesus so sweetly abides within; There at the cross where He took me in; Glory to His Name! Oh, precious fountain that saves from sin, I am so glad I have entered in; There Jesus saves me and keeps me clean; Glory to His Name! Come to this fountain so rich and sweet, Cast thy poor soul at the Savior’s feet; Plunge in today, and be made complete; Glory to His Name! AT THE CROSS Alas! and did my Savior bleed, And did my Sovereign die? Would He devote that sacred head For sinners such as I? At the cross, at the cross where I first saw the light, And the burden of my heart rolled away, It was there by faith I received my sight, And now I am happy all the day. Was it for crimes that I had done He groaned upon the tree? Amazing pity! grace unknown! And love beyond degree! Well might the sun in darkness hide, And shut his glories in, When Christ the mighty Maker died For man, the creature’s sin. But drops of grief can ne’er repay The debt of love I owe; Here, Lord, I give myself away; ‘Tis all that I can do. WE’LL PRAISE THE LORD We’ll praise the Lord for He is great, And in His presence angels wait; All heaven is swelling with His praise, Shall we not, to, our anthems raise? O we will praise Him, O we will praise Him, O we will praise His holy name! O we will praise Him, O we will praise Him, O we will praise His holy name! We’ll praise the Lord for He is wise; His wisdom shines through all the skies; The earth He measures with a span, And crowns us with His image, man. 51 | P a g e We’ll praise the Lord for He is just, And in Him we may ever trust; Princes and kings may turn aside, But God by right will e’er abide. We’ll praise the Lord for He is true, His word the same all ages through; Earth, sea and sky may pass away, But firm God’s truth will ever stay. O praise Him for His name is love, And from His glorious throne above He bends to welcome our weak praise; Shall we not, then, I anthems raise? BLESSED ASSURANCE, JESUS IS MINE Blessed assurance, Jesus is mine! O what a foretaste of glory divine! Heir of salvation, purchase of God, Born of His spirit, washed in His blood. This is my story, this is my song, Praising my Savior all the day long; This is my story, this is my song, Praising my Savior all the day long. Perfect submission, perfect delight, Visions of rapture now burst on my sight; Angels descending, bring from above Echoes of mercy, whispers of love. Perfect submission, all is at rest; I in my Savior am happy and blessed, Watching and waiting, looking above, Filled with His goodness, lost in His love. A CHARGE TO KEEP I HAV E A charge to keep I have, A God to glorify, A never dying soul to save And fit it for the sky. To serve the present age, My calling to fulfill; O may it all my powers engage To do my Master’s will! Arm me with jealous care, As in Thy sight to live, And O, Thy servant, Lord, prepare, A strict account to give! Help me to watch and pray, And on Thyself rely Assured, if I my trust betray, I shall forever die. Amen. GO PREACH MY GOSPEL “Go, preach My gospel,” saith the Lord. “Bid the whole earth My grace receive. Explain to them My sacred word; Bid them believe, obey, and live. “I’ll make My great commission known, And ye shall prove My gospel true By all the works that I have done And all the wonders ye shall do. “Go, heal the sick; go, raise the dead; Go, cast out devils in My name; Nor let My prophets be afraid, Though Greeks reproach and Jews blaspheme. “While thus ye follow My commands I’m with you till the world shall end; All power is trusted in My hands; I can destroy and can defend.” He spake, and light shone round His head, On a bright cloud to heaven He rode. They to the farthest nation spread The grace of their ascended God. 52 | P a g e The Missionary Benediction In the Name of the Triune God, May the Spirit of Christian Missions Enter every heart. This we ask in Jesus’ Name. Amen. The Lay Benediction May God bless us with the true spirit of Christianity, That we may live together, not as man over man, but as Lay persons working with God. Amen. The District Benediction Every Member a Christian, Every Christian a Worker Every Worker Trained, Every Trained Worker Saved Every Saved Worker a Tither This we ask in Jesus’ name. Amen. The Disciplinary Questions 1. Who are the preachers admitted on trial? 2. Who remain on trial? 3. Who are admitted or readmitted to full connection? 4. Who have been elected and ordained deacons? 5. Who have been elected and ordained elders? 6. Who have been located this year? 7. Who have been elected by the General Conference to exercise the Episcopal Office and to superintend the African Methodist Episcopal Church? 8. Who are the supernumerary preachers? 9. Who are the superannuated preachers? 10. Who have been expelled from the Connection by this Conference? 11. Who have withdrawn this year from this Conference and the Connection? 12. Are all the preachers blameless in life and conversation? 13. What members of the Conference have died this year? 53 | P a g e 14. Have all the preachers subscribed to The Christian Recorder and also to The A. M. E. Church Review, The Voice of Missions, The Journal of Christian Education, The Secret Chamber, or The Missionary Magazine? 15. What preachers are indebted to any of the departments or the church publications? 16. (A) Does each station, circuit, or mission in this Annual Conference have a Lay Organization? (B) If not, what stations, circuits, or missions do not have a Lay Organization? 17. (A) Does each station, circuit, or mission in this Annual Conference have a Koinonias Ministry? (B) If not, what stations, circuits, or missions do not have a Koinonias Ministry? 18. When shall this Annual Conference next meet? 19. Where shall our next Annual Conference be held? 20. Where are the preachers stationed this year? 54 | P a g e Notes _____________________________________ _____________________________________ _____________________________________ _____________________________________ _____________________________________ _____________________________________ _____________________________________ _____________________________________ _____________________________________ _____________________________________ _____________________________________ _____________________________________ _____________________________________ _____________________________________ _____________________________________ _____________________________________ _____________________________________ _____________________________________ _____________________________________ _____________________________________ _____________________________________ 55 | P a g e 56 | P a g e