June 2012 Lay Notebook

A PUBLICATION OF THE SIXTH EPISCOPAL DISTRICT LAY ORGANIZATION

Volume 18, Issue 2 June, 2012 OUR TRIBUTE

LAY NOTEBOOKLAY NOTEBOOKLAY NOTEBOOKLAY NOTEBOOK

THE AFRICAN METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH IN THE STATE OF GEORGIA

TO A LASTING LEGACY

President’s Message Page 3

Meeting Agenda Page 3

District Lay News Page 4, 5 & 11

Gen. Conference Agenda Pages 6-11

Conference Lay News Pages 5, 11-15

Necrology Page 15

Photos: We wish to thank all persons who contributed to the photo display

in this issue of LAY NOTEBOOKLAY NOTEBOOKLAY NOTEBOOKLAY NOTEBOOK. This names appear within the articles. We especially thank Sister Jacqueline Allen for the photo coverage of the dedication on the back cover of the Sixth Episco-pal District Headquarters Dedication event.

LAY NOTEBOOK LAY NOTEBOOK LAY NOTEBOOK LAY NOTEBOOK is the Official publication of the Sixth District Lay Organiza-tion of the African Methodist Episcopal Church. Article of interest to the Laity are welcome and should be submitted to the above e-mail or mailing address one month prior to our scheduled meet-ing dates. Color photos are also welcome with your articles.

Online Editions: http://issuu.com/laynotebook/docs

Inside This Issue

June, 2012

SIXTH EPISCOPAL DISTRICT

LAY ORGANIZATION OFFICERS

President

Gloria T. Byrd First Vice President

Michael Brown Second Vice President

Henry Chavers Third Vice President

Dr. Verma Curtis Recording Secretary

Melanie Lucear Assistant

Recording Secretary Robbiestein Stone

Corresponding Secretary Sandra Barnes Treasurer

Maudie Anderson Financial Secretary Waynefield Leonard

Chaplain Ola Irvin

Historiographer Bettye Draper

Parliamentarian Geraldine Monroe

Director of Lay Activities Cheryl Robinson

Transportation Chairperson L. Jean Swafford Director of

Public Relations Robert T. Matthews III PRESIDENTS EMERITUS Dr. Robert Williams

Morris Hannah CONNECTIONAL

PRESIDENT EMERITUS


CONFERENCE PRESIDENTS South - Joann Wilson Southwest - Anna Wynn Georgia - Joan Brown Augusta - Eunice Seigle Macon - Ashley Ballard

Atlanta-North Georgia - Annette Curry

PRESIDING BISHOP Bishop William Phillips DeVeaux, Sr.

EPISCOPAL DISTRICT SUPERVISOR Dr. Pam DeVeaux

PAGE 2 L A Y N O T E B O O KL A Y N O T E B O O KL A Y N O T E B O O KL A Y N O T E B O O K VOLUME 18, ISSUE 2


CONTACT US Mail: Robert T. Matthews 811 Sandy Creek Drive NW Atlanta, GA 30331

E mail: [email protected]

VOLUME 18, ISSUE 2

The uniqueness of the African Meth-odist Episcopal Church is its sense of ex-tended family and the fact that we jokingly say

we are "Always Meeting & Eating". But we are always together at some point in the month, quarter, or conference year. Itinerant refers to the ability to move as needed, but our connectivity allows us to maintain contact continuously with clergy. For this reason we will not say goodbye to the Deveauxs, be-cause they are still a part of our extended family and we will be seeing them again after July 2012.

We want to thank Bishop Deveaux and Dr. PAM for their support of the Sixth Episcopal District Lay Organization. They attended our Lay Conventions and Re-treats, playing when we played, praying when we prayed and spent a lot of time in our company and fellowship. Bishop

never needed to take the dais or podium unless he had a reason or we invited him to do so. They never flaunt their titles and always re-mained real making others feel comfortable. Bishop and Dr. PAM are very special and we will miss them, but know that we will see them soon

at the next "Always Meeting & Eating" func-tion.

Our next SED Lay Gathering will take place on June 16th At Allen Chapel AMEC in Macon, GA. The choir will rehearse from 9:00 am to 10:30 am. Our gathering will start at 10:45 am. If all goes well we should still dismiss around 1:00 pm as we accomplished in March.

Gloria T. Byrd, Gloria T. Byrd, Gloria T. Byrd, Gloria T. Byrd, Episcopal District President Episcopal District President Episcopal District President Episcopal District President

President’s Message


President

Gloria T. Byrd

WE WILL SEE YOU SOON, NEVER GOODBYE

THE SIXTH EPISCOPAL DISTRICT LAY ORGANIZATION

QUARTERLY GATHERING Greater Allen Chapel AME Church

269 Pursley St., Macon, GA, 31201 - 478-745-4646 The Reverend Billy G. McFadden, Pastor

AGENDA AND SCHEDULE FOR JUNE 16, 2012

SED Choir Rehearsal…..9:00 am

SED Gathering….10:45 am Devotion….. Led by SED Chaplain

Roll Call Review of Minutes and Treasurer's report Discussion of Legislation already submitted

Mr. Michael Brown CLEDC………………….Mr. Gregory McMichael YAR……………………….……Mr. Jason Ferguson

Episcopal District Lay Biennial Convention Mrs. Cheryl Robinson

2013 Biennial Committee Report Ms. Latrellis Dent & Mr. Greg McMichael

Dismissal & Lunch

AGENDA

Bishop William P. DeVeaux Dr. Pam DeVeaux

L A Y N O T E B O O KL A Y N O T E B O O KL A Y N O T E B O O KL A Y N O T E B O O K VOLUME 18, ISSUE 2

Sixth Episcopal District Living Legend Honoree Anna

Adams Mims MBC class of ‘52’ marched with the Morris

Brown College 2012 graduating class, celebrating 60

years since completing her studies at Morris Brown.

There were only two students from that class that

marched – Mrs. Mims and Ruth Wall. The ceremony was

held at Big Bethel AME Church on May 12th 2012. Sister

Mims was excited to have her family in attendance with

her for this special occasion her husband of 53 years, her

daughter & son and their families. Sister Mims has served

as President of the Columbus – Phenix City Chapter of

Morris Brown Alumni for over 20 years. She was also

honored in January this year by the Central District Lay

Organization as a Centennial Living Legacy. Sister Mims

has endowed a scholarship fund of over $60,000 at Mor-

ris Brown College in her name, so that Morris Brown

can continue to be a “haven for all hungry souls.”

Submitted by Jacqueline Jennings

Director of Public Relations

Southwest Georgia Conference Lay Organization

Yes, We Will Save Morris Brown

Morris Brown College ALMA MATER

Words by Milton Randolph Music By E. Waymon Hathcock

Alma Mater, pride of earth, Gav’st to me another birth, Haven for all hungry souls, Feeding them shall be our goal, Ever let thy banner be, Emblem of the brave and free, A welcome true to everyone, Until Thy work is done.

Hail to Thee, maker of men, Honor to The once again, Sacred truths on firmest ground, Hail to Thee, Dear Morris Brown. To thy precepts praise accord, To them may we e’er be bound, And bow and thank the gracious Lord, For dear ol’ Morris Brown.

News From Central District Lay

VOLUME 18, ISSUE 2 PAGE 5 L A Y N O T E B O O KL A Y N O T E B O O KL A Y N O T E B O O KL A Y N O T E B O O K VOLUME 18, ISSUE 2

Central District Lay Organization Holds Training Session

By Jacqueline Jennings

Central District Lay President Jacqueline Allen convened

a Lay Workshop on May 5th , 2012 at the South Colum-

bus Library. The workshop was well attended with mem-

bers from eight churches

and over 20 persons pre-

sent. President Allen

opened the workshop with

a warm welcome to every

attendee. The workshop

was turned over to Direc-

tor of Lay Activity Jacqueline Jennings. Ms. Jennings con-

ducted an ice breaker to have all attendees introduce

themselves and say what they expected to learn at the

session. Folders were given to all attendees containing

information on the churches history, what it means to be

an AME, the purpose of the Lay and the role the Lay

plays in the Connectional Church, Lay history, and gen-

eral facts. We also

discussed How to

Build an Effective

Lay Organization,

and each attendee

was provided with

information on ef-

fective communica-

tions, and various websites and books that can serve as a

resource for each member. The members asked ques-

tions and were able to share best practices and ideas

with others. Members continued to work as we ate, with

a question and answer period. President Allen closed out

the workshop thanking everyone in attendance at this

occasion of the Central District at Work.

Southwest Georgia Conference Lay Holds Annual Black & White Luncheon

By Jacqueline Jennings

The Southwest Georgia Conference Lay

Organization held its Black & White Luncheon on March

24, 2012 at Elizabeth Turner Bradley Center on the cam-

pus of Columbus State University. The luncheon theme

was “Stepping Into the Spirit”- Thru Dance, Music and

Fashion. Central District Lay President Jacqueline Allen

served as Worship Leader. A musical prelude was given

by Sister Yvette Mitchell, Brother Hudson Murray of-

fered the opening prayer, and the welcome was given by

Central District President Emeritus – Sister Susie Ware.

Sister Maranda Meadows gave the occasion, and intro-

duced the head table. Sister Petronius Mike of the South-

ern District provided the grace. A delicious luncheon

was enjoyed by all attendees. Following the meal Sister

Jacqueline Jennings introduced the afternoon’s entertain-

ment. Duel Destiny Dance Ministry, led by Minister Dee

-Dee Lester and Minister Latisha Turner offered a pow-

erful and spiritual testimony thru their dance. Those in

attendance were moved by their performance. The

models from Mega Modeling – the Modeling agency of

Sister Jackie Allen delighted the audience with fashion

segments of Denim & Pearls and Mannequins Come

Alive. These models use music and style to display their

fashions for the audience. The audience enjoyed a musi-

cal selection by Central District’s Sister Earnestine Perry.

The afternoon’s entertainment ended with “Hats on

Parade”, featuring Sisters Annie Huff, Maranda Meadows,

Gloria Williams and Georgia Stampley, modeling hats fit

for a queen. Sister Jacqueline Allen thanked all of the

program participants and guests for attending. Sister

Anna Wynn, Southwest Georgia Conference Lay Presi-

dent, brought greetings and thanked all of the pastors for

their support. The beautiful room decorations were cre-

ated by Sisters Maranda Meadows and Sister Annie Huff.

This was an enjoyable event.

M E G A

M O D L E S

DUEL

DESTINY

DANCERS


The 49th Quadrennial Session of the General Conference of the

African Methodist Episcopal Church June 27 - July 4, 2012

Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center, Nashville, Tennessee “Exalting Christ to Impact the World- John 12:32

Bishop Gregory G.M. Ingram General Conference Commission Chairperson

Bishop William P. DeVeaux Sr. Program Committee Chairperson

Bishop Vashti Murphy McKenzie, Host Bishop *********

Bishop John R. Bryant, Senior Bishop Bishop Samuel L. Green, Sr., Council of Bishops President

=== PRE-GENERAL CONFERENCE ACTIVITIES ===

THURSDAY, JUNE 21, 2012 Ryman Studio L REVISIONS COMMITTEE

MONDAY, JUNE 25, 2012 Ryman Studio J/K Ryman Studio I/H

CREDENTIALS COMMITTEE RULES COMMITTEE

TUESDAY, JUNE 26, 2012 Tennessee Ballroom A/B Ryman Ballroom F Tennessee Ballroom C/D

GENERAL CONFERENCE COMMISSION HEALTH COMMISSION ORIENTATION FOR DELEGATES PLATINUM GOLF TOURNAMENT

THIRTEENTH EPISCOPAL DISTRICT BANQUET Tuesday, June 26, 2012

Reception: 5:45 pm | Banquet: 7:00 pm Bishop Vashti Murphy McKenzie, Host Bishop Delta Ballroom

GENERAL CONFERENCE AGENDA

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 27, 2012 - First Day

6:00 am – 7:00 am Early Morning Call to Prayer » BAYOU C The Reverend Dorisalene Hughes, Prayer Director

10:00 am Opening Worship Service » RYMAN HALL C Bishop John R. Bryant, Worship Leader Bishop McKinley Young, Preacher

1:00 pm Lunch

3:00 pm – 6:00 pm 3:00 pm – 4:30 pm

Business Session I » RYMAN HALL C Bishop John R. Bryant, Presiding Roll Call Report: Credentials Committee

L A Y N O T E B O O KL A Y N O T E B O O KL A Y N O T E B O O KL A Y N O T E B O O K VOLUME 18, ISSUE 2 VOLUME 18, ISSUE 2

4:30 pm – 6:00 pm Bishop McKinley Young, Presiding Reports: Rules Committee General Election Commission Election of General Secretary and Staff Election of the Episcopal Committee Chairperson Announcements

6:00 pm Dinner 8:00 pm – 9:45 pm Business Session II » RYMAN HALL C

Bishop C. Garnett Henning Sr., Presiding Call to Order Episcopal Address Announcements Adjournment

THURSDAY, JUNE 28, 2012 - Second Day 6:00 am – 7:00 am Early Morning Call to Prayer » BAYOU C

The Reverend Dorisalene Hughes, Prayer Director 7:00 am Women’s Missionary Society Prayer Breakfast »

PRESIDENTIAL BALLROOM

7:00 am – 8:00 am Episcopal District Delegation and Committee Meetings

8:00 am – 9:00 am Proclamation or Bible Study » RYMAN HALL C

Bishop C. Garnett Henning, Sr., Presiding

Dr. James C. Wade, Leader Executive Director, Department of Church Growth & Development

9:00 am – 12:00 pm 9:00 am – 10:00 am

Business Session III » RYMAN HALL C

Bishop William P. DeVeaux, Presiding

Call to Order Minutes Reports: Treasurer General Secretary

Department of Annuity Investments & Insurance

10:00 am – 12:00 pm Bishop T. Larry Kirkland, Presiding Reports: Episcopal Committee (First) Revisions Committee (First) Judicial Council Sunday School Union

Department of Christian Education

Announcements Adjournment

12:00 Noon Lunch

2:00 pm – 6:00 pm

2:00 pm – 4:00 pm

Business Session IV » RYMAN HALL C

Bishop A.J. Richardson, Jr., Presiding

Call to Order Reports: Revision Committee (Second) Election Commission

Department of Global Witness and Ministry

Global Development Council (GDC)

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4:00 pm – 6:00 pm Bishop Richard F. Norris, Presiding Reports: Department of Research and Scholarship The Christian Recorder Department of Church Growth & Development Lay Organization Connectional Lay Centennial Observance Announcements Adjournment

6:00 pm Dinner » PRESIDENTIAL BALLROOM A Young Adult Candidate’s Forum

8:00 pm – 9:45 pm Business Session V » RYMAN HALL C Bishop Vashti Murphy McKenzie, Presiding Call to Order Reports: SADA Women’s Missionary Society Revisions Committee (Third) Debutante Master’s Commission Educational Institutions Theological Institutions Episcopal District Projects Episcopal Committee (Second) Overseas Development (including AME India) Social Action Announcements Adjournment


FRIDAY, JUNE 29, 2012 - Third Day

7:00 am The Jarena Lee AME-Women In Ministry Breakfast » PRESIDENTIAL BALLROOM C


8:00 am – 9:00 am Proclamation or Bible Study » RYMAN HALL C Bishop Gregory G.M. Ingram, Presiding Dr. James C. Wade, Leader Executive Director, Department of Church Growth & Development

THURSDAY, JUNE 28, 2012 - Second Day

9:00 am – 12:00 pm Business Session VI » RYMAN HALL C

9:00 am – 11:00 am Bishop Gregory G.M. Ingram, Presiding Call to Order Minutes Reports: Commission on Stewardship & Finance Revisions Committee (Fourth) Music & Christian Arts Ministry State of the Church Service of Memorials (Memoirs)

11:00 am - 12:00 pm Bishop Preston W. Williams, Presiding Reports: Annual Conference Boundaries Health Commission Economic Development Public Relations Announcements Adjournment

12:00 pm Lunch

2:00 pm – 6:00 pm Business Session VII » RYMAN HALL C

FRIDAY, JUNE 29, 2012 - Third Day

2:00 pm – 3:00 pm Bishop Preston W. Williams, Presiding Call to Order Reports: CONVO Sons of Allen

3:00 pm – 5:00 pm Bishop Paul J.M. Kawimbe, Presiding Reports: Revisions Committee (Fifth) Episcopal Committee (Third)

5:00 pm – 6:00 pm Bishop Carolyn Tyler Guidry, Presiding Report: Strategic Planning


Announcements Adjournment

6:00 pm Dinner

8:00 pm – 9:45 pm

Ecumenical Service » RYMAN HALL C

Bishop John F. White, Presiding

Reception of Fraternal Delegates

6:00 am – 7:00 am

Early Morning Call to Prayer » BAYOU C The Reverend Dorisalene Hughes, Prayer Director

SATURDAY JUNE 30, 2012 - Fourth Day

7:00 am CONN-M-SWAWO Breakfast » PRESIDENTIAL BALLROOM

7:00 am – 8:00 am Episcopal District Delega-tion and Committee Meetings

8:00 am – 9:00 am

Proclamation or Bible Study » RYMAN HALL C Dr. James C. Wade, Leader Executive Director, Department of Church Growth & Develop-ment

9:00 am – 12:00 pm Business Session VIII » RYMAN HALL C

9:00 am – 10:00 am

Bishop Carolyn Tyler Guidry, Presiding Call to Order Minutes Reports: Revisions Committee (Sixth) Women In Ministry (WIM)

10:00 am – 12:00 pm

Bishop James L. Davis, Presiding Report: Budget & Finance Committee Announcements Adjournment

12:00 Noon Lunch

2:00 pm – 6:00 pm Business Session IX » RYMAN HALL C

2:00 pm – 4:00 pm

Bishop David R. Daniels, Jr., Presiding Call to Order Report: Revisions Committee (Seventh – last opportunity to present new legislation)

4:00 pm – 6:00 pm

Bishop Samuel L. Green, Sr., Presiding Report: Budget & Finance Committee (Final) Announcements Adjournment

6:00 pm Dinner

8:00 pm – 9:45 pm

Retirement Service for Bishops » RYMAN HALL C Retirement Service for General Officers Bishop Frederick Talbot, Presiding

SUNDAY, JULY 1, 2012 - Fifth Day

7:00 am CLO Centennial Breakfast » PRESIDENTIAL BALLROOM

8:00 am

Church School, Dr. Daryl B. Ingram, Executive Director Department of Christian Educa-tion

10:00 am

Worship Service & Holy Communion » RYMAN HALL C TBA, Presiding, Preaching, TBA

2:30 pm AME-Women In Ministry Meeting (Elections) » MAGNOLIA BALLROOM

3:00 pm

The Christian Debutante-Masters Dedication » PRESIDENTIAL BALLROOM Bishop Vashti Murphy McKenzie, Presiding

4:00 pm AME-Women In Ministry Candidate Forum » MAGNOLIA BALLROOM

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SUNDAY, JULY 1, 2012 - Fifth Day

6:00 pm – 9:00 pm Special Event » DELTA BALLROOM

10:00 pm RAYAC Event » PRESIDENTIAL BALLROOM

MONDAY, JULY 2, 2012 - Sixth Day

6:00 am – 7:00 am

Early Morning Call to Prayer » BAYOU C The Reverend Dorisalene Hughes, Prayer Director


8:00 am – 9:00 am

Proclamation or Bible Study » RYMAN HALL C Bishop Sarah Frances Davis, Presiding Dr. James C. Wade, Leader Executive Director, Department of Church Growth & Development

9:00 am – 12:00 pm Business Session X » : RYMAN HALL C

9:00 am – 11:00 am

Bishop Sarah Frances Davis, Presiding Call to Order Minutes Report: Revisions Committee (Eighth)

12:00 Noon Lunch

2:00 pm – 6:00 pm Business Session XI » RYMAN HALL C

2:00 pm – 3:00 pm Bishop E. Earl McCloud, Jr., Presiding

3:00 pm – 5:00 pm Bishop Jeffrey N. Leath, Presiding

5:00 pm – 6:00 pm

Bishop Julius H. McAllister, Presiding Elections of Bishops, General Officers, & Judicial Council Announcements Adjournment

6:00 pm Dinner

8:00 pm – 9:45 pm TBA

TUESDAY, JULY 3, 2012 - Seventh Day



8:00 am – 9:00 am Proclamation or Bible Study » RYMAN HALL C Bishop Julius H. McAllister, Presiding Dr. James C. Wade, Leader Executive Director, Department of Church Growth & Devel-opment

9:00 am – 12:00 pm 9:00 am – 10:00 am

Business Session XII » RYMAN HALL C Bishop Julius H. McAllister, Presiding Call to Order Council of Bishops & Episcopal District Nominations Installation of General Officers & Judicial Council Minutes

10:00 am – 12:00 pm Bishop John F. White, Presiding Resolutions Report: Revisions Committee (Final) Announcements Adjournment

12:00 pm Lunch

2:00 pm – 5:30 pm TBA

6:00 pm Dinner

8:00 pm – 9:45 pm Music & Christian Arts Presentation » DELTA BALLROOM

VOLUME 18, ISSUE 2

PAGE 11 VOLUME 18, ISSUE 2 L A Y N O T E B O O KL A Y N O T E B O O KL A Y N O T E B O O KL A Y N O T E B O O K

Wrens-Vidalia District Adopts Constitution & Bylaws

by Hon. Emanuel Larkin, Jr. The Wrens-Vidalia District Lay Organization held its first quarterly meeting of the 2012 - 2013 Conference Year, May 19, 2012 at Thompson Springhill AME Church in Jefferson County, Matthews, GA. The Rever-end Timothy Lewis is Pastor. The first written District Lay Constitution & Bylaws were adopted by the assembled body. Officers for the term 2012 - 2014 were elected and installed by Augusta Conference Lay President Eunice Seigle. Officers are President, Eugene Love; 1st Vice President, Maudie Anderson; 2nd Vice President, Roberta Daniels; Secre-tary, Lorene Davis; Assistant Secretary, Carrie Davis; Correspondence Secretary, Gloria Brown; Treasurer, Morris Hannah; Lay Activities Director, Dorothy Medlock; Chaplain, Robert Rhoney; Public Relations Director, Nancy Smith; Parliamentarian, Raymond Turner; and Young Adult Representative, Martina Clark.

Bro. Raymond Turner (L), Parliamentarian & Bylaws Chair presents a copy of the Wrens-Vidalia District Constitution & Bylaws to Augusta Conference Lay President Eunice Seigle while Hon. Emanuel Larkin, Jr., Bylaws Editor and Past President looks on.

WEDNESDAY, JULY 4, 2012 - Eighth Day

9:00 am Consecration Service » RYMAN HALL C Bishop Samuel Green, Worship Leader Bishop John Richard Bryant, Senior Bishop, Preaching

11:30 am Business Session XIII » RYMAN HALL C Bishop John Richard Bryant, Senior Bishop, Presiding Call to Order Assignment of Bishops Adjournment

General Board Meeting President of the Council of Bishops, Organizer

4:00 pm General Board Organization » DELTA BALLROOM

4:00 pm Episcopal Supervisors’ Meeting and Installation » \ MAGNOLIA BALLROOM

The Augusta Georgia Annual Conference Lay Witness Night

April 24, 2012-Athens, GA

“Oh What A Night" This was an Amazing Service. The Worship Leader, Dr. Elizabeth Gainious, got us off to a great start and the spirit just continued to go Higher and Higher. The Preacher for the evening was Rev. Stephen B. Smith. He warmed our hearts with his melodious voice, singing "I Made It". The message was Isaiah 43 verses 9 and 10 entitled, “Its Time to do a New Thing.” He encouraged us to clarify our focus. In order to understand what we are aiming for, it may also be necessary to change our focus.

In order to meet the challenges of today we must also be willing to change. We have to stay Focused on God, using the Bible as our Ultimate Guide. Rev. Smith reminded us that we all experience difficult times on the job, in the family, and yes, in the Church. We must stay prayerful and watch God work miracles in our lives. The music was a message within itself. The Butler Creek AME Church choir accompanied their Pastor, also the combined choir from the St. Luke AME Church, Lyons, GA. There was a variety of spirit filled music such as, “Come on and Bless the Lord with Me”, “My Soul wouldn't Rest Contented”, and “Come Let us Adore Him”. Our Guest Soloist was Bro. Donald Jenkins from St. Paul

(Continued on page 14)

ATLANTA-NORTH CONFERENCE LAY CHOOSES KING AND CROWN PRINCE By Willie Hunter


The room was filled to capacity as members of the African Methodist Episcopal Church's Atlanta-North Georgia Conference Lay Organization held its 9th Annual King & Crown Prince contest at the massive Cathedral of Turner Chapel AME Church on the Con-ference's North District on Sunday April 15th at 5:00 PM. Members and friends of the Lay Organization came from all over the Conference to witness this spectacular event that showcases the men of the Atlanta-North Georgia Conference. Several contestants marched down the mid-dle isle in an effort to see who would win the coveted titles of King and Crown Prince of the Atlanta-North Georgia Conference Lay Organization. The King/Crown Prince affair began 9 years ago and it serves as a fundraiser for the Conference. This event is the brain child of former Conference Lay President, Sis. L. Jean Swafford, who wanted also to showcase the men of the Atlanta-North. This gathering of Laypersons was hosted by Rev. Myron Dees - pastor of Alexander Memorial AME Church in the Atlanta West District. After all of the candidates were presented the Atlanta-North Georgia Conference Lay President, Sis. Annette Curry, announced the new King and Crown Prince and their royal court for the year 2012. Capturing the coveted prize of King is Bro. Archie James (St. Philip - East District). Capturing the Crown Prince title once again is Bro. Dewayne Fabian (Knight's Monumental - South District). First runner up for King is Bro. David Wilson (Antioch - East District) and Second runners up for King are Bro. Rashuan Murray (Big Bethel - North District) and Bro. Larry Witherspoon (Turner Monu-mental - East District). First runner up for Crown Prince is Bro. Eddie Smith (St. John - South District) and Second runner up for Crown Prince is Bro. Carl Dunlap (St. James - West District). Musical selections for the event were presented by male choruses from the Conference. King and Crown Prince Committee chairperson Bro. Fred Mason thanked all who came out to witness the 9th Annual event. The chairman also thanked those who served on this Lay Organization committee such as Brothers Alfornia Leonard, Sr., Willie Marks, James Malone and this reporter. Sisters Esteller Phillips, Waynefield Leonard, Jean Johnson and Sarah Malone also served with the men. All total - more than $8,000 was raised for the At-lanta-North Georgia Conference Lay Organization.

ATLANTA-NORTH GEORGIA CONFERENCE

2012 LAY KING BROTHER ARCHIE JAMES

OF SAINT PHILIP AME CHURCH

BEING ROBED BY BROTHER

GREG MCMICHAEL ATLANTA-NORTH

GEORGIA CONFERENCE LAY ORGANIZATION 2ND VICE PRESIDENT

Pictures Courtesy of Greg McMichael


2012 Lay King Archie James of Saint Philip and 2012 Lay Crown Prince Dwayne Fabian of Knights Monumental along with Annette Curry, Atlanta-North Georgia Conference Lay President

2012 Lay King Archie James of Saint Philip; 2012 Lay Crown Prince Dwayne Fabian of Knights Monumental; King 1st Runner-up David Wilson, Jr. of Antioch; King 2nd Runner-up Larry Witherspoon of Turner Monumen-tal; King 2nd Runner-up (tie) Rashun Murry of Big Bethel; Crown Prince 1st Runner-up Eddie Smith, Jr. of Saint John - Atlanta; Crown Prince 2nd Run-ner-up Carl Dunlap of Saint John - Douglasville

2012 Lay King Participant Trezdan Matthews of Mount Zion - Kennesaw and his escort


ELECTED LAY OFFICERS - MACON CONFERENCE by Brother Alphonso B. Varner

The Macon Georgia Conference Lay Organization held its election of officers for the Biennial 2012 - 2014, Sunday, April 29, 2012. The election was held at the Greater Allen Temple A.M.E. Church in Byron, Georgia. The Reverend Charlie Hicks, II, Host Pastor. Brother Phillip Shannon, Local Lay President Sister Latrellis O. Dent, Conference Lay President. Sister Bettye Draper, President of the Griffin District Lay Organization conducted the election.

ELECTED OFFICERS 2012 - 2014 President ---------------------- Brother Ashley Ballard 1st Vice President ---------------Sister Bettye Draper 2nd Vice President ------------ Sister Janie M. Grayer 3rd Vice President ------------- Sister Phyllis G. Boyd Recording Secretary --------- Sister Nikita Lyons Assistant Secretary ---------- Sister Astra Freeman Corresponding Secretary -- Sister Dorothy Wiley Treasurer ---------------------Sister Latrellis O. Dent Financial Secretary --------- Brother Cedric Nelson Chaplain ------------------------ Sister Vivian Stephens Parliamentarian -------------- Brother Gerald Ellison Director of Lay Activities - Sister Shirley Washington Director, Public Relations Brother Charles Murphy Historiographer ------------- Sister Shirley Black Young Adult Representative ----Sister Jakilla Rouse

From left Brother Ashley T. Ballard, Sister Bettye Draper, Sister Janie M. Grayer, Sister Phyllis G. Boyd, Sister Nikita Lyons, Brother Gerald Ellison, Sister Astra Freeman, Sister Dorothy Wiley, Sister Latrellis O. Dent, Brother Cedric Nelson, Sister Vivian Stephens, Sister Shirley Washington, Sister Shirley Black and Sister Jakilla Rouse. Not shown Brother Charles Murphy.

Photo by Brother Alphonso B. Varner

AME Church, Vidalia Ga. He sang “Let the Lower Light Be Burning,” and a Special Tribute to the DeVeaux Team (“May The Work I've Done Speak for Me”). Bro. Jenkins was presented the Meritorious Service Award. Bro. Robert Rhoney, the Augusta Conference Chaplain received the President’s Award—two very hard working Gentleman who always have a song and a prayer in their hearts.

As I said at the beginning—"Oh What a Night" all were Blessed by this service.

Submitted by: Nancy K. Smith, Director of Public Relations Augusta Conference Lay Organization

P.S Did I mention that the Preacher who Delivered that "Amazing" Sermon, is My Son. -God Is Good-

(AUGUSTA LAY NIGHT Continued from page 11)

MACON CONERENCE LAY WITNESS WORSHIP

EXPERIENCE By Brother Alphonso B. Varner

One of the exciting highlights of the 129th Session of the Macon Georgia Annual Conference was the Lay Witness Experience on Tuesday evening, May 8, 2012. This historic evening was held at the Greater Turner Tabernacle African Method-ist Episcopal Church in Macon, Georgia. The Reverend Ernest Gordon, Host Pastor. The Reverend Alan Hale Wicker, Host Presiding Elder. Sister Latrellis O. Dent, Con-ference Lay President. Bishop Frank C. Cummings (Retired) presided over the Annual

Conference in the absence of our esteemed Bishop, William Phillips DeVeaux, Presiding Prelate. Dr. Patricia Ann Morris (PAM) DeVeaux, Episcopal Supervisor. The Lay Witness Experience was held in conjunction with the Con-nectional Lay Organization Cele-brating its 100th (1912 - 2012) Anni-versary. Sister Vivian Stephens provided the spiritual tone of the evening with the Prelude. Sister Astra Freeman served as Worship Leader and led the reading of the Lay Litany. Sister Pamela Y. Veal led the worshipers in singing the Lay Hymn followed with the Invocation by Brother Larry C. Emery, Sr. The Greater Allen

Chapel A.M.E. Church Choir of Macon, Georgia energized the spiri-tual motives of the worshipers with selections as "He has done more than enough, and He is working it out." Evangelist Juanita Culler read the Scripture from the Book of I Thes-salonians. Sister Patricia Phillips made a plea for Gifts for Missions. The Introduction of the Bishop was made by Sister Latrellis Dent— Bishop Frank C. Cummings who presented the Reverend Ernest Gordon to preach the Word. Brother Thaddeus Veal sang the Sermonic Selection, "My Soul Been Anchored in the Lord," which brought the worshipers to their feet


with praise.

The Reverend Ernest Gordon took the worshipers to the moun-tain top Preaching the Word from the Book of Isaiah, Chapter 43, Verses 1 and 2. His subject "Build for the Road Ahead." Reverend Gordon gave some slogans which

automobile makers use to sell their cars. The one he thought best to use for his subject was Ford's slo-gan .. "Built for the Road Ahead." Some key points made: As Christian believers we should get on the road of adventure; Prosperity, success, happiness is on the road ahead; God is able to bring you over the rough places; Sometimes you have to sing during the tough times; Fear of the unknown to reach your destination; God says Fear Not, as you travel along life's journey. Sister Janie M. Grayer recognized visitors from other conferences.

Remarks made by Sister Latrellis O. Dent, Conference Lay President. She thanked All who made her jour-ney as president for eight years a most pleasant experience. Sister Pamela Veal presented a dozen of red roses to President Dent on behalf of the Macon Con-ference Lay Organization for serving our Zion in general and this Organi-zation in particular in an exceptional way. A delicious repast was prepared for all to enjoy after the Worship Ex-perience.

CONGRATULATIONS Congratulations are in order for Sister Phyllis Gwenette Boyd for being named as Super Nurse for Kaiser during National Nurse’s Month—the Month of May. This recognition was also published

in the Atlanta Journal-Constitution on May 1, 2012. She is also the newly elected Macon Georgia Con-ference Lay Organization’s Third Vice President.

NECROLOGY We are deeply saddened by the death of the following

persons since our last issue of LAY NOTEBOOK

Bishop Richard Allen Chappelle, Sr., age 78, 108th Bishop (retired) in Saint Louis, MO on March 29, 2011. He was born, the son of a parson-age, in Miami, FL on February 25, 1934. He too was ordained in the South Florida Con-ference, where he served as both a pastor and a teacher for several years. In 1976, he became the General Secretary of the AME Church. He served in that position for 8 years and moved to Saint Louis, establishing and modernizing the Secretary’s office there. He was elected and conse-crated Bishop in 1988 and served the 17th, 18th, 8th and 12th Districts. He was a life Alumnus of Bethune-Cookman University. His funeral services were held at Saint James AME Church in Saint Louis, MO on April 7, 2012 and at Mount Herman AMEC in Fort Lauderdale, FL on April 13 , 2012.

Bishop Hamel Hartford Brookins, age 86, 91st Bishop on May 22, 2012. He was the seventh child born to his sharecropping parents in Yazoo, MS on June 8, 1925. After having attended the Public Schools in Mississippi, he went on to obtain a

bachelor degree from Wilberforce University and Payne Theological Seminary. He became active in Civil Rights with the Desegregation of Schools. He marched with Martin Luther King, Jr. and assisted in helping Jesse Jackson launch Operation P.U.S.H. As Pastor of First AME Church in Los Angeles, he encouraged and mentored Thomas Bradley to run for Mayor. After being elected to the bishopric, he was banned from Rhodesia for encouraging the blacks, who were in the majority, to stand up for their rights. He was a strong advocate for education and qualification of members of the AME Church—both clergy an lay. Bishop Brookins’ funeral was held at his beloved First AME Church in Los Angeles on Friday, June 1, 2012.

Brother JOSIAH PHELPS - MR. SAINT PETER, age 92, on March 22, 2012. Brother Phelps was born in Dixie (Brooks County), Georgia, February 29, 1920 to the late Mr. Charlie Lee and Mrs. Ella Hall Phelps. After receiving his Agricultural Degree from Fort Valley State (College) University, he launched a most successful Agricultural Career. For more than 39 years, he was employed by the State of Georgia Department of Edu-cation, Vocational Division. He held offices in the NFA, FFA,

and was Director of Camp John Hope. He was also inducted in the Georgia Agricultural Education Hall of fame. Mr. Phelps served as treasurer of the church for 40 years and held Emeri-tus status with the Trustee Board. He was an active member of a number of other organizations in his church. He also served as Parliamentarian of the Macon Conference Lay Or-ganization, Delegate to the General Conference of 1972, and as Delegate to a number of Lay Biennials. His funeral was at Saint Peter AME Church in Fort Valley on March 29, 2012.



Sixth Episcopal District Lay Organization AMEC c/o Robert T. Matthews III 811 Sandy Creek Drive, NW Atlanta, Georgia 30331

THE AFRICAN METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH IN THE STATE OF GEORGIA - SIXTH DISTRICT

DEDICATION OF THE SIXTH EPISCOPAL DISTRICT HEADQUARTERS June 2, 2012 - Pictures Courtesy of Sister Jacqueline W. Allen

Central District Lay Organization President

June 2012 Lay Notebook

Documents

Transcript of June 2012 Lay Notebook