Quadrennial Theme: Raising Our Level of Expectation. Ephesians 3: 20. Host Church Community A. M. E. Zion Church Vancouver, WA

Transcription

1 Prior Submitted Conference Reports for the ONE HUNDRED AND NINETEENTH SESSION of the OREGON-WASHINGTON ANNUAL CONFERENCE of the WESTERN EPISCOPAL DISTRICT of the AFRICIAN METHODIST EPISCOPAL ZION CHURCH Quadrennial Theme: Raising Our Level of Expectation Ephesians 3: 20 Host Church Community A. M. E. Zion Church Vancouver, WA Held at the Hilton Hotel in Vancouver, WA July 5 10, 2011 The Reverend Joyce M. Smith Host Pastor THE REVEREND Robert F. Kemp HOST PRESIDING ELDER, CASCADE DISTRICT MRS. D. DIANE PROCTOR MISSIONARY SUPERVISOR THE RIGHT REVEREND DENNIS V. PROCTOR PRESIDING BISHOP

2 Section 1 Delegates Reports Page 3 Section 2 Pastoral Reports Page 15 Section 3 Ministerial Reports Page 27 Section 4 WHOMS Reports Page 35 Section 5 Christian Education Reports Page 39 Section 6 Evangelism Report Page 60 Section 7 Lay Activities Report Page 66 Section 8 Historians Report Page 69 Section 9 State of the Church Report Page 73 Section 9 State of the Church Report Page 76

3 3 Section 1 Delegate s Reports

4 119 th Session of the Oregon-Washington Annual Conference Held at: Community AME Zion Church, Vancouver, Washington July 5 10, 2011 Delegate s Report Ebenezer AME Zion Church Conference Year To the Right Reverend Dennis V. Proctor, Missionary Supervisor Mrs. D. Diane Proctor, Presiding Elder Robert F. Kemp, Pastors, Ministers, Members and Friends of the 119 th Session of the Oregon-Washington Annual Conference. I, Henrietta Williams, submit the following report for the conference year on behalf of Ebenezer AME Zion church, where Rev. Alphonso H. Meadows, Jr. is the Pastor. Greetings, in the name of the Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. The members of Ebenezer have participated in several activities for the good of the church and needs of all people in the community. We have started a new ministry in radio broadcasting. We are building up a strong fellowship among the body and community with the help of God. The Sunday School department is organized and functioning very well. We have four Sunday School classes; men, women, young adults and children. The Missionary department has been busy doing work as led by the Holy Spirit, under the leadership of our president, Sis. Valerie Wilson. The Missionary department works with the Evangelism and Laity departments giving out canned goods, non perishable foods, gloves, and socks to the communities and shelters. Brown bag lunches are prepared each Saturday and distributed among our Friends without Homes in the community. During the winter months, they are served hot lunches. This program is led by Bro. David Dudley, local President of Evangelism.

5 He has been successful in creating a joint effort to run this program, with the Men of Zion, the Laity Department, the Missionary department and several churches in the community. The youth and the children s church take an active role in worship services under the direction of Sis. Rubye Hayden and Bro. Philmont Bostic. The music department is going strong and getting better. We have four musicians, a gospel choir, a men s chorus, praise and worship team and children s choir. Our Minister of Music, Sis. Dana Jackson has truly been uplifting to the congregation. I am happy to report that as of January, we have a senior choir. We will be singing every 5 th Sunday under the direction of Total Experience Gospel Choir founder and director Pastor Patrinell Wright. To express appreciation for our Pastor, we celebrated his 7 th Anniversary with Ebenezer AME Zion with an appreciation event. On Saturday night of June 11 th, we celebrated our Pastor with a banquet at one of the finest hotels in Seattle. We were so moved and blessed that have his family. We closed out on Sunday afternoon with testimonies and a lunch in our Pastor s honor. We love our Pastor. He is truly a good shepherd. He visits the sick, counsels the lost and wins souls for Christ. He is always there when we need him. It is a blessing to the congregation at Ebenezer AME Zion church to be under the leadership of Pastor Meadows. Humbly Submitted, Henrietta Williams, Delegate

6 Pauline Memorial A.M.E. Zion Church 3593 Sunnyview Road Salem, Oregon (503) Rev. Antoinette Rochell, Pastor 119th Annual Session of the OR/WA Annual Conference Of The African Methodist Episcopal Church Host Church: Community A. M. E. Zion Church Host Pastor: Rev. Joyce M. Smith Convening: July 5, July 10, 2010 Bishop Dennis V. Proctor, Presiding Prelate of the Western Episcopal District Mrs. D. Diane Proctor, Missionary Supervisor Rev. Robert F. Kemp, Presiding Elder Delegate Report To the Presiding Prelate of the Western Episcopal District, Bishop Dennis V. Proctor; Missionary Supervisor, Mrs. D. Diane Proctor; Presiding Elder, Rev. Robert F. Kemp; Presiding Elder Emeritus, Rev. Dr. L. J. Thompson; Host Pastor, Rev. Joyce M. Smith; WHOMS President, Sis. Wilhelmina Stone; WHOMS President Emeritus, Sis. Mary Coleman; Pastors, Ministers, Delegates, District Officers, Members and Friends of the 119th annual session of the OR/WA Annual Conference. I bid you greetings in the name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. I, Edna-Alice White, the delegate of Pauline Memorial A.M.E. Zion Church, make the following report. Pauline Memorial continued to be blessed this year under the leadership of Christ Jesus and Pastor Antoinette Rochell. Membership - During Pastor Rochell's 2nd year as spiritual leader of Pauline, spiritual growth, as well as growth in member participation, continues to be evident. Participation has been steady in the Wednesday evening Bible Study. The church continues to hold monthly prayer breakfasts for men (1st Saturday) and women (3rd Saturday). Also, Pastor Rochell holds a Basic Bible Brunch one Saturday each month for any members and guests who wish to attend. Page 1

7 Pauline Memorial A.M.E. Zion Church 3593 Sunnyview Road Salem, Oregon (503) Rev. Antoinette Rochell, Pastor Pauline was saddened, this year, to lose through death, ill health and retirement a few key "workers in Christ's vineyard." After wiping away the tears, the church has been able to continue the work these members faithfully carried out. It has been a blessing to see who God sent/selected to build on the work of those who have gone on. Pastor Rochell worked hard this year to strengthen Pauline's system of Class Leaders. She appointed a "Leader of Leaders," organized regular Class Leader meetings and requested that each Class have a quarterly service project. This has resulted in improved communication and in more members working together... at church and in the community. For example, some members live within a 50 mile radius of Salem and at times physical class meetings are not always convenient. Because of this, Pastor Rochell has encouraged the use of modern technology to stay in contact computers, conference calls, cell phones, etc. One of our members sends out positive cell phone text messages each morning reminding us of how much God has blessed us. The stronger class leader system has had other positive results: *Members connecting more with one another more often in prayer & Bible study *Additional member volunteers and additional resources (food) at Pauline s Food Bank *100% member participation in Lay Council dues payment *Members volunteering to update the church website and develop a quarterly newsletter Food Bank - Pauline's food bank, along with the faithful volunteers, is still growing and serving the needs of the people throughout the Salem area. It has been open continuously for over 25 years. It is still being recognized as a blessing to the community and is open each Tuesday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. rain or shine. This year free clothing items have been made available to the needy during the hours that the food bank is open. The church plans to expand this as time and space allows. Christian Education - Participation in the Adult and Children's Sunday Church School classes has remained steady. Pauline has been blessed with a large group of children, most who attend Sunday School regularly and have become the nucleus of Pauline's children's choir that blesses most Sunday morning services with song. Page 2

8 Pauline Memorial A.M.E. Zion Church 3593 Sunnyview Road Salem, Oregon (503) Rev. Antoinette Rochell, Pastor The children and youth are involved in almost every Sunday service in some capacity. (ushering, choir, leading prayer, reading announcements, etc.) Also, children and youth participated in painting and decorating the interior of the modular building where their Sunday School classes are held. Accomplishments this year: * Recruited and maintained a reliable teaching staff for children's Sunday Church School * Increased Sunday Church School participation by the children * Received more parent involvement in children's Sunday Church School Evangelism - Pastor Rochell has encouraged her vision for Pauline of increased outreach and service to the community. The church has continued to seek and take advantage of opportunities to help, encourage and share. Community outreach accomplishments this year: *Weekly community outreach through Pauline's food bank and clothing give away. *Held joint services and functions with other Salem area churches such as Pauline's Annual Church in the Park and Friends & Family Day outreach celebrations. *Supported the local N.A.A.C.P. in an annual fund raiser. *Coordinated the coming together of a Salem area Eagle Scout group with the church's children and youth to paint and decorate the interior of Pauline's modular building. *Continued participation on the Nellie B. Thompson-Dorothy Patch Scholarship Fund Board. The fund provides financial aid to college bound high school seniors. The Nellie Thompson-Dorothy Patch Scholarship Fund awarded 16 college scholarships this year. It is the scholarship fund's 19th year of giving money to Salem area students in honor of Nellie B. Thompson, co-founder of Pauline Memorial AME Zion and local teacher Dorothy Patch. The total amount awarded this year was $11,600. Since it's humble beginning in 1992 the scholarship fund has awarded over $50,000. ************** Pastor Rochell actively motivates and assists in all areas. She has encouraged Pauline members to examine the level of their commitment to God's work. Raising the level of commitment will allow better follow through on any goals made that involve serving Jesus Christ and learning, following and teaching the word of God. Page 3

9 Pauline Memorial A.M.E. Zion Church 3593 Sunnyview Road Salem, Oregon (503) Rev. Antoinette Rochell, Pastor Pauline Memorial A.M.E. Zion continues to be: "A Church On The Move, Winning Souls For Christ!" (Acts 1:8) Respectfully Submitted, Edna-Alice White, Delegate Page 4

10 Community African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church 3605 East 13 th Street Vancouver, Washington Phone Fax DELEGATE REPORT for the 119 th Annual Session of the OREGON-WASHINGTON ANNUAL CONFERENCE To the Right Rev. Dennis V. Proctor, Presiding Bishop, To Elder Rev. Rev. Robert F. Kemp, Elder Emeritus L. J. Thompson, to the Host Pastor Rev. Joyce M. Smith, Pastors, Ministers, Delegates, Annual Conference Officers, Members and friends of the one hundred and nineteenth Annual Session of the Oregon/Washington Annual Conference. Greetings, in the name of my Lord and Savior Jesus the Christ. I, Rosemary Morgan-Harris, delegate from Community A.M.E. Zion Church cheerfully make the following report: The Supply Department of community have been spearheading the collecting of blankets, sleeping bags, hats, socks, food, Bibles along with personal hygiene items to be distributed to the homeless. In December, and March we took to vans full of goods and food for distribution, In NW Portland. Brothers in Christ: Several members worked with the local NAACP to continue to support and develop the summer Rites of Passage Program, as well as a Youth Employment Program. The men have been active participants in Vacation Bible School, Teaching Sunday School, Teaching in Children s Church, Ministerial Study, and the Van Ministries, Men s choir. The men have also reached out to help some of our members who need help with lawn work and cleaning moss off roofs they have really been a blessing when ever they can be. The every fifth Sunday the men lead the church worship service, they sing and usher the s choir sing and the. The Christian Education Department is busy, busy, busy we sponsored a prison ministry project called the Angel Tree (headed by our classes), reaching out to the children of prisoners at Christmas with love. We had a wonderful Christmas program. This program has participation from all departments, all age groups, and a blessed time was had by all. Vacation Bible School was again a family favorite as all ages participated. We also had a great Easter Week Program that was well attended and ended with a play put on by the Adult Department. Wow what a week. The Lay Council is having a drive to have all active members of the church become active members of the lay council. The lay council is also busy during the month of February. The lay Council has a breakfast every first Saturday and generally it is well attended. The Music Department has ministered with uplifting Gospel Music and Hymns to the souls, of the congregation, In both our church services and various other churches through out the Greater Portland/Vancouver Metropolitan area. The choir sang at the combination celebration Martin Luther King Jr. and Black History Celebration at Clark College. What a blessing it is to minister to the community at large.

11 The Children s choir is growing and ministers to the congregation on 2 nd and 4 th Sundays. The Prayer Warriors have an hour of prayer every Wednesday Evenings The Buds Department holds weekly meetings, and training once a month. The Missionary Dept have weekly Bible Study, visit the sick and shut ins they make lap robes, bibs which were distributed at a local nursing homes. They held our 3 rd Christmas Bazaar at the Marshall Center in December Missionary Dept. spearheaded and supplied underwear to women in Clark County Jail. We Donated toiletries to women in special housing for the abused. The Stewart Board has been outstanding in providing for the needs of the Pastor and most recently; this board successfully hosted the 2nd Pastoral Anniversary for our pastor with a luncheon held at the Hilton. The board also hosted the Annual Christmas Party held at the Water Resource Center. The Evangelist Committee Our November Revival with revivalist Stephen Pogue from Greater Cooper A.M.E. Zion Church, Oakland, CA. was a great success. We also observed Decision Day in October 1 conversion 1 re dedication and 2 joining the church. Friends and Family Day was held and there were 149 congregants in attendance to the service and 202 for dinner. We have gone out four times this year sandwiches to the homeless. We have visited the sick in hospitals and at home. Door knockers have been placed on door knobs within a 4 block area twice this year. We have had bible study and prayer in homes along with the Missionaries. We partnered with the Missionary Dept. and supplied underwear to women in Clark County Jail. We Donated toiletries to women in special housing for the abused $ Donated to the Gideon s for bibles. $ Donated to the Gideon s for bibles. Yokes, have been broken and lives have been changed ALL PRAISES TO GOD! The Usher Board our faithful doorkeepers are busy. The senior usher board is always ready to travel with our pastor when she accepts outside speaking engagements. The Trustee Board have been busy keeping the church, its grounds and the rental houses in good repair. Community A.M.E. Zion Church The Church That s Going Somewhere The Church of TODAY We have a loving, spirit filled church that is committed to spread the Good News to all who will hear. We ask all of you to continue to pray our strength in the Lord as we travel toward Glory. Yours in Christ, Rosemary Morgan-Harris

12 New Life A.M.E. Zion Church Services held at: SE 2 nd Circle Vancouver, WA Reverend Marva J. Edwards, Pastor The Reverend Robert F. Kemp, Presiding Elder Mrs. D. Diane Proctor, Missionary Supervisor Bishop Dennis V. Proctor, Presiding Prelate DELEGATE REPORT To the Right Reverend Dennis V. Proctor, Presiding Prelate, Mrs. D. Diane Proctor, Missionary Supervisor, The Reverend Robert F. Kemp, Presiding Elder, the Reverend Joyce M. Smith, Host Pastor, Pastors, Ministers, Annual Conference Delegates and Officers, members and friends of the 119 th session of the Oregon-Washington Annual Conference; I, Geraldine (Gerri) Hart, submit the following report as the delegate from New Life A.M.E. Zion Church: New Life continues to hold service at the Phoenix Inn every Sunday morning; Sunday school from 10:30-11:30 a.m. and morning worship which starts at noon, the Reverend Marva J. Edwards presiding. Although attendance and giving is down, the spirit is high and as our Motto states we are still joining hands and moving forward together under the leadership of Jesus Christ. Sunday School Sunday school meets every Sunday and at the present time, the adult and young adult classes are combined. Our teaching tools are the Bible, A.M.E. Zion church school literature and the Standard Lesson Commentary. Missionary New Life A.M.E Zion church has observed all of the Missionary days for the Missionary Department. BUDS: Marie L. Clinton Day was observed January 20, 2011 with a Buds Moment during the morning worship service. Remembering our Founder was read by one of the Buds and they all recited the Buds Motto, Pledge, and Slogan for the congregation. The buds choir sings one Sunday every month and they participate in Sunday school and wherever they are needed in the church. They look forward to apples and oranges provided by Brother Earl Ford every Sunday Y s: The Y s are active in church set up and doing Responsive Reading. YAMS: The YAMS assist with the set up and take down of equipment. They do the Welcome and Announcements for the church. PARENT BODY: The Parent Body is the over-all umbrella for the church with leading the worship and observance of Missionary days. They participated in Women s History Month and Breast Cancer Awareness observation. Annual Conference -2011

13 Christian Education Adults are the mentors for our youth and children in Christian Education. They bring their experience and knowledge, along with Christian discipline to the youth and children. In New Life, we have learned that if you give this future church body the opportunity, they will be willing workers in the church because they are eager to learn. We also believe that when you train up a child in the way he should go, when he is old he will not depart from it so we keep our young adults, youth, and children in the loop of what is happening in the church and when appropriate give them an opportunity to give their input about how things are done in the church. James Varick Day was observed by the Christian Education Department, led by Sister Gerri Hart, Local Director, during a morning worship service in October. The young adults observed YACM Sunday April 10, 2011 using the program and national theme: Building Bridges for 21 st Century Young Adults: Relational Approach. Real Talk Relevant Ministries. Much thanks to our young adults Stevonne and Luke Fuller and Marcus Madiman for their participation in this service. The speaker for the day was Exhorter Breanna Probasco from First A.M.E. Zion Church in Portland, and we give much thanks to her also. Church Anniversary The fourth anniversary of New Life was celebrated February 27, 2011 with the Reverend William Dudley as the morning guest speaker, and the Reverend Robert N. Probasco as the guest speaker for the afternoon program. At the end of the afternoon service there were many people who gathered around the altar to pray for and encourage Pastor Edwards and New Life (see picture). Pastor s Appreciation The members of New Life first give thanks to God for our pastor, and second, to Bishop Proctor for appointing her as the pastor for another year. Her Pastor Appreciation was celebrated the weekend of June 4 th and 5 th. On June 4 th, the annual fellowship dinner at the Quay Restaurant was held. On June 5 th, the guest speaker for morning worship was Minister Edie Jolly-Bryant from First Church in Portland, and for the afternoon program the Reverend William H. Dudley. The theme was Fulfilling God s Ministry, the thematic scripture was II Timothy 4:1-5. July 4 th As this report is being submitted one day after July 4, 2011, I wish to report that New Life will again be taking church to the community with our second annual Church in the Backyard service at the home of Reverend Edwards. Conclusion New Life has again come this far by faith, leaning on the Lord. We ask the prayers of this Conference that we will continue on the battlefield. Respectfully submitted, Gerri Hart, Delegate Annual Conference -2011

14 4 th Anniversary New Life A.M.E. Zion Church April 27, 2011 Joining hands to pray for Pastor Edwards and New Life A.M.E. Zion Church The Cake! Annual Conference -2011

15 15 Section 2 Pastoral Reports

16 Fir First A.M.E Zion Church * 4304 N. Vancouver Ave. * Portland, Oregon Pastor - Rev. Robert N. Probasco, Sr. 119 th Session of the Oregon Washington Annual Conference Held at Community A.M.E. Zion Church 3605 East 13 th Street Vancouver, Washington To: The Rt. Rev. Dennis V. Proctor, Missionary Supervisor D. Dianna Proctor; Presiding Elder Robert Francis Kemp; Dr. L. J. Thompson, Presiding Elder Emeritus. To: Rev. Joyce M. Smith, the Host Pastor; Ministers and Friends of the 119 th session of the Oregon-Washington Annual Conference. I wish to submit the following report of my labors as Pastor of First AME Zion Church, for 2011 conference year. Pastoral goals for conference year: To help members of First AME Zion Church to work together to provide an environment where each person can grow personally and provide non judgmental support to visitors and non members. There has been a focus on giving God the highest praise Hallelujah and to go for the highest standard the GOLD. Members have been encouraged to use sermons, Bible Study and daily devotions to grow deeper and recognize the greatest challenge they will face is one s self. God is Love and He loves all people. All have sinned and fallen short. It is Grace and Mercy that gives us hope. We are in no position to judge people. We are all a work in progress, saved by God s Grace and Mercy. To build positive relationships between members and encourage their outreach to others. Current number of members on the church roll (unaudited) Number of Sermons Preached 56 Number of New Members 5 Number Funeralized 2 (one member, one non member) Number of People Baptized 1 adult Visits made to the Sick and Shut In 56 Street Ministry - 40 (invited to church)

17 Outreach Programs: Partnered with pastors of other faiths to present a presence in the community to support those moving away from gang involvement. AME Zion provides the meeting place for Connected and members participate in weekly patrols through high incident areas. Several members connected with the unhoused population (homeless) inviting them to church, donating money to people who needed food, providing transportation, clothing and furniture. Provided money to support over 75 hours of tutoring to middle school and high school students through Sankofa. Member distributed of 1,000 repurposed educational books to the community (e.g., 500 to the ESL Parents; 300 to the parents attending the Healthy Birth Initiative; 50 to the people who attended Matt Dishman s Block Party. AME Zion members came together and built a float that was used in the Good in the Hood Parade in June. Members of all ages came together. Some road the float; others road in a convertible; some walked and two occupied a table where they gave out information about the church. More than 300 pieces of wrapped candy were given out to those watching the parade. A special wrapper was created to advertise the upcoming musical at the church. (June 2010) July 17, 2010 the laity presented Lifting Our Voices in Praise. A number of people from other churches were featured on the program. September 18, 2010, the First AME Zion Women came together to present the Women s Day Program. A number of people from the community attended. October 9, 2010, First AME Zion hosted a Saturday seminar featuring Rob Corcoran, National Directgor of Initiatives of Change and author of Trustbuilding an Honest Conversation on Race, Reconciliation and Responsibility. (Event was widely advertised and 50 people participated in the all day event. Judges, college professors, educators, a medical doctor, two AME Zion trustees were in attendance.) October 17, 2010 at 3:00 pm, the program for the Calendar Tea was held. Guests from many parts of the city attended. The Buds using rhythm instruments introduced the First AME Zion Children s Praise Song. The Calendar Tea was held in the Fellowship Hall. The Monthly Community Breakfast was held throughout the calendar year (with one exception when the Quarterly Conference in October fell the Saturday before the first Sunday of the Month). Neighbors and members and their invited guests attended. Free clothing was displayed and given away right after one of the churches community breakfast. The First AME Zion Church Choir held its annual musical in April It was well attended. April through May 2010 Partnered with the Voices In Praise (VIP) to support outreach through music and praise. The church provided space for weekly rehearsals. I would like to thank Maurie Sails, preacher s steward; Althea Sails, the church administrator; Dorothy Keil, Finance Committee; Chandra Leonard, Finance Committee; Laverne Toliver, the Poor Stewart; Margaret Solomon, Claims Secretary; Sharon Kearny, Chairperson of Board of Laity; Belinda Warren, Chair of Scholarship; Maria Council, Director of Buds of Promise; Dominique Keil, Deaconess in training; Sally Purifoy, Geneva Bedford, Hazel Cheathan, Novella Jackson, C. Joyce Clarity, Deaconesses; Father s Community Network; Weins, Keils, and the Leonard-Graham Children for ushering; Kelley Probasco, Chef for church functions; Brooke Probasco-Canda and Marlene Sails, Class Leaders for the Youth; Pam

18 Etheridge, Quarterly Conference Secretary; Phillis Whitmore, Music Department; the ministerial staff, including Dr. L. J. Thompson; Z. James Purifoy, local deacon; Edie Jolly-Bryant, Traveling Minister; Maurie Sails, Local Preacher; John Canda, Pam Etheridge, and our newest and youngest Exhorter Breanne Probasco-Canda. Thank you to all the soldiers who make up God s army, including the foot soldiers working behinds the scenes. Thank you to the First Lady of First AME Zion Church for her grace and kindness. We stand and applaud all who make this church what it is.

19 119 th Session of the Oregon-Washington Annual Conference Held at: Community AME Zion Church, Vancouver, Washington July 5-10, 2010 Pastor s Report To The Rt. Rev. Dennis V. Proctor, Missionary Supervisor D. Diane Proctor, Presiding Elder Robert F. Kemp, Presiding Elder Emeritus Reverend Dr. LJ Thompson, Pastors, Ministers, Members and Friends of the 119 th session of the Oregon-Washington Annual Conference: I, Rev. Alphonso H. Meadows, Jr., submit the following report of my labors as Pastor of Ebenezer AME Zion Church, for the conference year. A year in which we continued our laser beam focus on impressing and impacting the community in which Ebenezer is planted. Highlights of accomplishments for the Conference Year We focused our efforts around Ebenezer s conference year theme, Are you an effective ambassador for Christ? Our efforts to impact and impress the community is bearing fruit, evidenced by Ebenezer s gain of 33 new members this conference year, giving Ebenezer a net total of 153 members. To build on our efforts to impact the community, we were intentional about the following: o I preached 8 sermons outside of Ebenezer, which included: o Mount Baker Baptist Church, Pastor Ransfer Appreciation service o Share the Dream MLK City Wide Program, held at First AME Church, annual fundraiser benefiting the Emergency Feeding Program for Seattle and King County o LDS Stake Center, Burien Wa, participated in two services o Pearly Grove Baptist Church, Fresno CA, Pastor Bishop Charles Dickerson o A second service - we now hold two communion/worship services every first Sunday at 8:30am and 11:00am. o Newspaper Advertising weekly in local community newspaper the Facts. o Radio Broadcasting as of 12/5/10 Ebenezer is broadcast 2:00pm on AM 1420, 1560 or 1620 KYIZ or via internet on o Partnership with Total Experience Gospel Choir The Director and Founder of the Choir, Pastor Patrinell Wright, a member of Ebenezer, has made it her personal goal to introduce her church and her Pastor every where she goes. As a result, Ebenezer is benefiting from her vast contacts in the Seattle community. One of example of this, the Pastor attending a democratic fundraiser with President Obama as the speaker, this Pastor got to shake the President s hand. o Intiman s Theaters Black Nativity Play This very popular play is listed as a must see each year in things to do in Seattle during the Christmas season. As a result of Ebenezer s participations in

20 the play, we gained unprecedented publicity and exposure that the church could not have purchased. The members from Ebenezer who successfully auditioned for the play Dana Jackson, Sheri Charleston, CJ Dudley, Christi Recchi, Mary Strange and the Pastor. It is worth noting this Pastor earned the part of the Preacher in the play. This part was previously held by Seattle Icon Rev. Dr Samuel B. McKinney for ten years, until his retirement. o Easter Play He Would Not Come Down April 21 st - 24 th. Proceeds benefited Ishinomaki Japan, to help with relief efforts from the devastating earthquake and tsunami. o Latter Day Saints Children s Choir We hosted their choirs from Orem, UT 125 members on Sunday, March 13 th, and again on March 20 th.another 100. o Ebenezer s Choir participated in the city wide Folk life festival, on Memorial day o Gamblers Anonymous and Gam Anon we have opened up the church to them for their weekly meetings. o Board of Evangelism in partnership with the Laity, Men of Zion, and the Missionary departments.served 1,442 hot meals and 3,970 sack lunches for a total of 5,412 meals; gave away 1,395 pairs of socks, 405clothing items (pants, shirts etc), 4,202 toiletry items, 236 pairs of gloves, 11 pairs of shoes. 345 bibles were given to people and 177 people requested prayer. Music Ministry debut of two new choirs o Senior Choir on January 30 th every 5 th Sunday, under the direction of Pastor Patrinell Wright. o Children s Choir on February 27 th every 4 th Sunday under the direction of Jenell Mullin. o Ebenezer has a outstanding music ministry, a Pianist, Organist, two Drummers, and a Base player, we also added a professional sound system technician. Pastoral Labors o Preached 51 sermons o Officiated/participated in five funeral services o Three out of state funerals in support of members o Officiated three weddings o Regularly visited the sick and shut in members o Attended all major Denominational travel proceedings o Confirmed four acolytes o Consecrated one Deaconess Jenell Mullin o Attended city wide black clergy meeting with the Seattle police chief Enhancements o Implemented CD ministry as of October, thanks in part to a donated 8 disc CD duplicator o Upgraded the sounds system Choir Microphones & Compressors, microphones for all of the musical instruments for broadcasting on the Radio. o Wireless Microphone - donated around the ear headset style for the pastor In closing, I thank God and the Bishop for the privilege to serve as the Pastor of this great church, this past conference year. Ebenezer has a loyal, hard working nucleus of people, including a faithful ministerial staff Reverend William H. Dudley, Reverend Patrinell Wright and Traveling Minister Phyllis Carter, two Local preachers Sis. Rubye Hayden, and Bro. Philmont Bostic, and one soon to be licensed Exhorter Sis Loretta Jack.. Humbly submitted, Reverend Alphonso H. Meadows, Jr., Pastor

21 PAULINE MEMORIAL A. M. E. ZION CHURCH SALEM, OREGON PASTOR S REPORT TO THE 119 th SESSION OF THE OREGON-WASHINGTON CONFERENCE AFRICAN METHODIST EPISCOPAL ZION CHURCH CONVENING AT THE COMMUNITY AME ZION CHURCH 3605 E. 13 TH STREET VANCOUVER, WASHINGTON JULY 5-10, 2011 To Bishop Dennis V. Proctor, Presiding Prelate; Mrs. D. Diane Proctor, Missionary Supervisor; the Reverend Robert F. Kemp, Presiding Elder; the Reverend Joyce M. Smith, host pastor; to all the pastors, ministers, District Officers, delegates, members, friends and visitors of the 119 th Session of the OR-WA Annual Conference: I greet you in the Name of our blessed Lord and Savior Jesus the Christ! This is a report of my labors for the Church year. We continue to move forward in the Lord. The Holy Spirit rules in Pauline regardless of minor challenges. We continue to grow spiritually, as well as, numerically with 2 new members. God continues to give increase. I thank God for those who are steadfast, un-moveable and always abounding in the work of the Lord. God s ministry matters at Pauline. The children s ministry continues to be a blessing to the church family and the community. The children continue to be active with learning to usher, participate in worship service on the fourth Sundays. They were asked to sing at the Salem/Kiezer Juneteenth Celebration again this year. The Children Church is flourishing under the leadership of Sis Evelyn Frazier as children director and the teaching leadership of Shanika Frazier. We have committed teachers who volunteer their service to helping our children to learn about God and who Jesus is and can be in their lives. We have been truly blessed because a Boy Scout wanted to do community project to earn his Eagle Scout Badge. Mark Crutchfield wanted to paint, build benches, and make storage boxes for the children s department spearheading the project. Mark Scout troop #108, scout master and scout leaders also supported this project. The membership came out in full force to assist with some painting, yard work. The youth helped paint and pulled weeds, the children planted flowers to beautify the yard. The entire effort was supported by our intergenerational church membership. Ages ranged from a 2 year old to a very senior saint. What a wonderful day it was as we supported Mark s project. We just completed a new capital campaign fundraiser to assist with our finances. We sold fireworks this year. This project ended July4th. Brother Francis Dzata and Sister Miriam Blackwell were co-directors in charge of the project. We experienced a higher level of commitment from our membership. We worked on one accord and expect a financial blessing from our God. The need for feeding the hungry is where we are considering adding another day to operate the food bank. We have fed 396 families: adults-812; children 436. Volunteers have served 709 hours. We have 48 volunteers (the majority are Pauline members). We will be expanding to one more day; the need is great in our community. Paul Dixon is the Administrator and Doris Harris is the Lead Volunteer. I cannot name all of the volunteers but I must commend Brother Mark Quistadt and Sister Marleen White. They have volunteered at the food bank for at least 5 years. We start each food bank day with prayer. We find that if we pray all confusion and chaos is eliminated. I am so grateful for the opportunity to volunteer at the food bank. For it is there that the people can ask me to pray and minister to them. What a blessing that is. We continue to move forward in our work for the Master. Relationships have been healed; growing spiritually with Bible study, Sunday school, 11am worship service and 4 th Sunday family fellowship dinner.

22 I have preached 42 sermons; baptized 1 adult, 3 children 1 infant; I officiated 1 funeral and assisted with 4. I have made numerous home and hospital/care facilities visits from Salem, to Portland, and to Vancouver. I am proud to say that we have 35 lay cards added this year. Our lay members are active from cleaning to singing, volunteering, ushering, participating in worship service. I am grateful and thankful for Pauline church family for their support of God s Ministry and to me as the pastor of Pauline. I thank the Presiding Elder for his continuing support. I just celebrated the 2 nd year Pastor s Appreciation, June 25-26, 2011, with the Reverends Rodney McCullough and Carolyn McCullough of Outland Memorial A. M. E. Zion Church in Fort Worth, Texas, as guest preachers. I thank all who participated in this wonderful and God honoring and Spirit filled service. A big thank you to the Appreciation committee: my Preacher s Steward Sister Raechelle McWoods, Sisters Shirley Thompson, Patti Harper, and Sylvia Rivers. They did an excellent job. I continue to encourage the membership s faith journey. The requirement: PRAY and TRUST GOD! TO GOD BE THE GLORY FOR THE GREAT THINGS HE HAS DONE FOR PAULINE. Humbly Submitted, Reverend Antoinette Addison Rochell, Pastor July 5-10, 2011

23 Community African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church 3605 East 13 th Street Vancouver, Washington Phone Fax PASTOR S REPORT for the 119 th Annual Session of the OREGON-WASHINGTON ANNUAL CONFERENCE HELD AT COMMUNITY AME ZION CHURCH VANCOUVER, WASHINGTON To the Right Rev. Dennis V. Proctor, Presiding Bishop, Supervisor Deborah Diane Proctor, Our Missionary Supervisor, To Presiding Elder Rev. Robert F. Kemp, Presiding Elder Emeritus L. J. Thompson, Host Pastor Rev. Joyce M. Smith, Pastors, Ministers, Delegates, Annual Conference Officers, Members, Friends and Guest of the One Hundred and Nineteenth Annual Session of the Oregon/Washington Annual Conference. Greetings in the name of our Lord & Savior Jesus Christ! O Lord how excellent is thy name in all the earth, never could have made it without Him. As I stand to make this report of my labors at the great Community AME Zion Church, I can truly thank Almighty God, Bishop Proctor for his innovativeness, the Presiding Elder, Pastors and members for stepping out in faith and bringing a change to this 119 th Annual Session of the Oregon & Washington Conference. Let the record show that we serve an awesome God!!! The spiritual state of the church is awesome; the members have worked and supported the common good of the church. The trustees have been actively engaged in making sure that the buildings, rentals and grounds have been kept in order. New carpet was purchased and paid for this conference year, with new additions to the conference room and fellowship hall. The Young Adults have stepped up and is clearly focused on making a difference in our church. There has been no task assigned to them that they have not taken the mantle and ran with it. Our Sunday school has all age group assigned and active with a capable Superintendent and Christian Education Director leading the way. We have three Bible Studies weekly, prayer meeting weekly and bible study for the Youth on 2 nd & 4 th Sunday which works well due to their school and work schedules. The children are extradionaire; they sing and participate in Sunday worship service every 2 nd and 4 th Sunday. We always get receive joy in hearing them pray and on Children s Day they had the entire early service with the message being given by a 9 year old.

24 Page 2 This report would not be complete without mentioning the Brothers in Christ who has showed up and showed out in not just talking the talk but walking the walk. These brothers work hard at their church, sing in the Male choir, constantly on their post ushering, and there for each other. Thank you Brothers in Christ! Outreach for this area in ministry has included joining the Albinia Ministerial Alliance, serving on the Vancouver Mayor s Prayer Breakfast Committee and accepting preaching engagements in different denominational churches. We have formed a fellowship with Revival Tabernacle Church of God, once a month we come together for an evening service. My Second Pastors Appreciation was a huge success sponsored by the Pastor Steward and the Steward Board with an elaborate Luncheon at the downtown Hilton Hotel with family, friends and colleagues. Thank you, Sis. Lucy and the Steward Board. Number of Baptisms 24 Total Probationary Members 101 Total Full Members 131 Total Membership 232 Number of Conversions 8 Eight Active Class Leaders Sixteen Active Deaconess Ten Active Ushers Two Exhorters One Local Preacher Sermons Preached 35 Pastoral Visits Made 157 Marriage Performed 02 Funerals Conducted 03 This conference year has been a walk of faith that continues to move us to a higher level in Christ; I thank God, and Bro. Jack who has been a co laborer in this ministry with me for 22yrs and my soul mate for 47 years. What a fellowship, what a joy divine leaning on the everlasting arms of Jesus. Humbly submitted, Rev. Joyce M. Smith

25 July 27, 2010 NEW LIFE AFRICANMETHODIST EPISCOPAL ZION CHURCH P.O. BOX 1903 Vancouver, WA TELEPHONE THE REVEREND MARVA J. EDWARDS To: The Right Reverend Dennis V. Proctor, Presiding Prelate of the Oregon-Washington Conference; Mrs. D. Diane Proctor, Missionary Supervisor; The Reverend Robert F Kemp, Presiding Elder, The Reverend Dr. L. J. Thompson, Presiding Elder Emeritus; The Reverend Joyce M. Smith, Host Pastor; Pastors, District Officers, Delegates, visitors, members, and friends of the Oregon-Washington Annual Conference. Greetings in the name of my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. New Life A.M.E. Zion Church is a place where Everybody is somebody in Jesus Christ for we have joined hands and are moving forward together under the leadership of Jesus Christ. As Pastor, I thank God for the opportunity to serve His people. We worship and celebrate the Lord every Sunday at the Phoenix Inn in Vancouver, WA or in the community. Pastoral Services Preached 38 sermons Served communion to159 people No funerals, one wedding, 1 Baptism Church Growth Adults 18 Youth 6 and Baptized Children 6 Total 30 Our Evangelistic Visibility Sunday worship at the Phoenix Inn Suites every Sunday I was the speaker at the National Council of Negro Women Speaker Annual Prayer Breakfast Member of the Worth Program with the YWCA where I visit the jail and mini-prison facility once a week to minister to those incarcerated President of the NAACP chapter #1169 in Vancouver, WA. Was the keynote speaker for a Breast Cancer Awareness Fund Raiser in Milwaukee, WI. Planning July 3, 2011 to let the neighborhood know that We re Bringing Church to You The neighbors watched and listened as we sang praises to God. We observed Evangelism Sunday. Actually, every Sunday is Evangelism Sunday as we present God as our Savior through Jesus Christ. 2 new members, 1 healing, 2 recommitments to God, and 2 Faith Sharing received certificates (Marcus Madiman and myself, Rev. Edwards. Christian Education Sister Geraldine Hart is our CED director. We have Sunday school every Sunday. The spirit is so high that they lose track of time. We use A. M. E. Zion Sunday school materials. We have three Sunday school teachers. The attendance is growing. Our youth are active in ushering, leading the responsive reading, and

26 praise and worship. They also help with set up for service. The Christian education department involved all members of the church in Black History celebrations. Lay Council Our Lay Council director is Dorothy Stennis. We have observed Lay Council Sunday and many lay council members. We had six visitors on Lay Council Sunday. They Lay Council informed the members about AME Zion women during Women s History Month This was another avenue for teaching AME Zion History. Missionary Department Our Local President is Margo Bryant. We observe the missionary days and participate in District meetings. Our Buds of Promise enjoy singing and praising God as they march around the church waving flags and wooden crosses. The members have been a blessing to me and to God s church. I thank God for all of the members for they have been committed, faithful servants. We are still looking for a permanent home, and we know that God will provide one at the right time. Pray for the members of New Life AME Zion Church; for we Pray first, Aim High, and Stay Focused on God. We ve come this far by faith leaning on the Lord and we are still depending on him for a permanent church home. I have included pictures of various praise and worship services. Humbly submitted, Reverend Marva J. Edwards

27 27 Section 3 Ministerial Reports

28 ANNUAL CONFERENCE REPORT COMMUNITY A.M. E. ZION CHURCH CASCADE DISTRICT OREGON-WASHINGTON ANNUAL CONFERENCE AFRICAN METHODIST EPISCOPAL ZION CHURCH ANNUAL SUPERNUMERARY MINISTER REPORT To The Right Rev. Dennis V. Proctor, Missionary Supervisor D. Diane Proctor, Presiding Elder Robert F. Kemp, Host Pastor Rev. Joyce M. Smith, Pastors, Ministers, District Officers, Delegates, Visitors, Members and Friends of the 119 th session of the Oregon-Washington Annual Conference: As a Supernumerary Minister I humbly make the following report of my labors this past conference year. Number of Sermons preached. 14 Number of Marriages solemnized. 1 Number of Baptisms performed. 0 Other labors performed Associate Pastor District Director of Evangelism Local Director Christian Education Sunday School teacher for the Adult Class Supported Pastor at engagements at other churches Attended four prayer breakfasts Number of prayer meetings or Bible studies held or attended 48 Number of times attended Sunday school 48 Number of class meetings held or attended 8 COMMENTS: As the associate pastor my role has been to undergird the pastor in her pastoral oversight of the church. I am actively engaged in providing guidance for the fulfillment of task as delegated by the pastor. I assist the pastor in assessing the needs of the congregation and community as to the church s impact in critical service areas. I strive to be consistent, dependable, enthusiastic, cooperative, supportive, and sensitivity to the needs and concerns of others. I am involved in the laborious task of finding and recruiting persons to carry out ministry tasks in the various positions in the church, especially in Christian education. I teach Wednesday night Bible Study on a rotating base. This past year I was blessed to conduct a workshop at the 55 th session of the Cascade District Oregon/Washington Conference entitled The Challenges of a Ministry that Matters. I also conducted a training session at the Cascade District Christian Convocation on The Essentials for Leading a Person to Christ. I am a member of the Political Action Committee of Clark County and I continue to be a speaker at the NAACP Summer Rites of Passage Program. I served as one of the Worship Leaders in the Pan Methodist Alliance for the seven Last Words of Christ. I visit the sick and shut-in and minister to seniors in the adult foster care

29 and assisted living facilities. I preached the fall revival at Pauline A.M.E. Zion Church and the fifth Annual Men s Conference at First A.M.E. Zion Church. As the Local Director of Christian Education, I continue to strive to provide a comprehensive and relevant program for all age groups in the church. The Director of Christian Education is responsible for all teaching in the church. I am focused on the Bible, the source of foundational material for building a ministry that effectively nurtures persons in the Christian faith. I am responsible for teacher selection, development, training and evaluation as well as programs. As the District Director of Evangelism I work with the local Directors of Evangelism and the boards to maintain effective local programs and I encourage them in the work of evangelism. I model personal Evangelism by investing and inviting people to Christ and His Church. I am the treasurer for the grant writing committee for Community A.M.E. Zion Church. We have completed the application process and paid the fees to become a Non-Profit Corporation named Faith Builders for Christ. I am also treasurer for the Cascade District Oregon/ Washington Conference. I am the liaison for the Men of Zion and the Mentoring Project. I facilitated the partnership with Rev. Frazier and John Sower president of the Mentoring Project and author of Fatherless Generation-Redeeming the Story. The main objective of the mentoring program is to establish the initial commitment to be a mentor, as well as outline who a mentor is, and what a mentor does. The goal of The Mentoring Project is to inspire and equip churches to build sustainable mentoring communities. I am also the Vice-President of the Brothers In Christ men group at the church. I continue to read and study the following books: Holy Bible, The Book of Discipline of the A.M.E. Zion Church, A New Handbook on Christian Theology The Come Back Church, Thinking for A Change Faith-Sharing Workbook and Faith-Sharing Text book. Beyond the ClassRoom How to prepare Bible messages I thank God everyday just for allowing me to serve Him. Respectfully Submitted, Rev. Levi Harris Associate Pastor

30 Annual Conference Report First A.M.E. Zion Church Cascade District Oregon-Washington Annual Conference African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church Annual Report for Traveling Minister Edie M. Jolly-Bryant To Rt. Rev. Dennis V. Proctor, Presiding Prelate; Mrs. D. Diane Proctor, Missionary Supervisor; Rev. Robert F. Kemp, Presiding Elder; Pastors, Officers, and members of the 119 th Session of the Annual Conference convening on July 5-10, 2011 for the year ending May 31, 2011: I, Edie M. Jolly-Bryant, Traveling Minister on Trial, submit the following report of my labors: Number of Sermons Preached Number of Prayer Meetings held Number of times attended Sunday School Number of times attended Bible Study Number of Funerals Conducted Completed Second Year Traveling Minister s Conference Studies. Third year Traveling Minister s Conference Studies: Biblical Studies Christian Education History Christianity Ministry Formation and Leadership Pastoral Care and Counseling

31 Preaching Religion, Society and Culture Theology Worship The Holy Bible The A.M.E. Zion Book of Discipline The A.M.E. Zion Hymnal Other: Purpose Driven Life by Rick Warren How to Handle Adversity by Dr. Charles Stanley God in an Age of Scarcity by Bishop R.L. Speaks God s Inspirational Promise by Max Lucado Daily Devotional Assist Pastor Probasco in church services; teach Sunday School; conduct services for Rev. Edwards and Rev. Rochell; President of National Council of Negro Women, Portland Section; Vice-President of Church Women United of Portland; Leader of Annual NCNW Prayer Breakfast; hosted CWU Forum at First A.M.E. Zion Church. On-line Courses of Introduction to the Old and New Testament. Prayerfully Submitted: Edie M. Jolly-Bryant, Traveling Minister on Trial

32 AFRICAN METHODIST EPISCOPAL ZION CHURCH TRAVELING MINISTER REPORT JULY 5,2011 To Presiding Bishop Dennis V. Proctor, and Missionary Supervisor D.Diane Proctor, Elder Robert F. Kemp, Rev. Alphonso H. Meadows, Jr., Pastor and the Host Pastor Joyce Smith of Community A.M.E. Zion of the 119 TH Annual Conference July 5, I Traveling Minister Phyllis M. Carter on trail, submit the following report of my labors: Number of Sermons preached 3 Number of prayer meetings or Bible Studies attended 12 Number of times attended Sunday school 10 What Studies am I pursuing o Traveling Minister and second year studies o Pursuing my studies at Northwest University in Kirkland Others Labors: Steward Board member o Sunday Morning worship leader o Assist with teaching new members classes o Leader of the Class Leaders o Deaconess o Member of the Prayer Team o Women of Encouragement Ministry Coordinator/ Women s book club Coordinator o Adult Christian Education Director o Member of the Senior Choir Respectfully submitted, _Traveling Minister Phyllis M.Carter Minister Phyllis Carter Pastor Alphonso H. Meadows Jr.

33 QUARTERLY CONFERENCE REPORT AFRICAN METHODIST EPISCOPAL ZION CHURCH COMMUNITY A.M. E. ZION CHURCH CASCADE DISTRICT OREGON-WASHINGTON ANNUAL CONFERENCE To the Right Rev. Dennis V. Proctor, Presiding Bishop, To Elder Rev. Rev. Robert F. Kemp, Elder Emeritus L. J. Thompson, to the Host Pastor Rev. Joyce M. Smith, Pastors, Ministers, Delegates, Annual Conference Officers, Members and friends of the one hundred and nineteenth Annual Session of the Oregon/Washington Annual Conference. Number of Sermons delivered 11 Number of Prayer Meetings Attended 46 Number of Times Attended Sunday School 50 Number of Class Meetings Attended 6 What studies is she pursuing 1. The Holy Bible 2. Reality of the Black Church 3. Taking The Bible Seriously 4. The Elements of Preaching 5. The Dynamics of Preaching 6. The Discipline 7. AME Zion Hymnal 8. The Case For Faith 9. The Case For Christ 10. Celebration & Experience in Preaching 11. What s So Amazing About Grace 12. Church Administration in the Black Perspective 13. On the Preparation and Delivery of Sermons 14. African American Worship Experience 15. Ethics in Ministry 16. The Case for the Creator 17. The History of the Early Church 18. Outstanding Black Sermons 19. God in an Age of Scarcity 20. Discipline of the Spirit 21. Introduction to Christian Worship 22. The Story of Christianity 23. Revelation Unveiled 24. The Hum 25. Twelve Keys To An Effective Church 26. Christian Education in the African American Church 27. Church for the Unchurched 28. Triangular Teaching: A New Way of Teaching 29. Dangerous Memories 30. The Practice of Pastoral Care 31. Moving From Shame to Self Worth 32. Faith Seeking Understanding 33. Worship Old and New 34. Courageous Leadership 35. We Have This Ministry: The Heart of a Pastors Vocation 36. How to Read The Bible for All Its Worth Activities and Accomplishments

34 I have Attended eleven prayer breakfast s this year. I have led 6 bible studies Supported Pastor and Elder at engagements at other churches Studying God s Word makes me stronger. Visiting the sick in hospitals and nursing homes As the local director of the Evangelism Dept we have been busy delivering food, Socks, Toiletries to the homeless. I was assigned to preach at the Revival Tabernacle Church of God, what a blessing that was for me. The 2 nd year traveling minister s test has been completed. Currently I am the Local Director of Evangelism. I teach the Intermediate Sunday school class. I attend monthly meetings with Rev. Smith and the other Ministerial Staff. I am also a Class Leader. Romans 8:28 And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose. Respectfully Submitted. Rosemary Morgan-Harris Rosemary Morgan-Harris 7/5/2011

35 35 Section 4 WHOMS Reports

36 119 th Session of the Oregon-Washington Annual Conference Women s Home & Overseas Missionary Society Convening at the Hilton Hotel in Vancouver, Washington July 5-10, 2011 Community AME Zion Church is the Host Church Victorious Living, Prayer and Fasting, Praise and Worship, Purpose and Power

37 Women s Home and Overseas Missionary Society To: The Right Rev. Dennis V. Proctor, Presiding Prelate of the Oregon- Washington Annual Conference; Mrs. D. Diane Proctor, Missionary Supervisor; Rev. Robert F Kemp, Presiding Elder of the Cascade District; Rev Joyce Smith, Host Pastor; Pastors, Ministers, District Officers, Delegates, Visitors, Members, and Friends of the 119 th Session of the Oregon-Washington Annual Conference. Greetings in the Name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ: The Women s Home and Overseas Missionary Society is represented by 5 societies, 130 Parent Body members, 25 Yams, 28 Youth, 75 Buds, 17 Supply, 130 Life members for a total of 405 members. New Life members to receive stoles are 1. As President of this Missionary Society, I would like to report on the progress and accomplishments for this conference year. This Conference year things were done differently. Instead of Missionary Mass Meetings we had a fall and Spring Convocation with Christian Education, Lay Council, and Evangelism. The Convocation was different, and it caused some confusion for some of the Missionary s. For example, a few missionaries did not come prepared to pay their obligations even though they were informed of their responsibility at the beginning of the year. The 1 st Convocation was in Seattle at Ebenezer AME Zion Church. It was this meeting that the Missionary Department elected officers and discussed business. The 2 nd Convocation was in Salem at Pauline AME Zion Church. The highlight for the Missionary meeting was an informative workshop on Aides Awareness, presented by Community AME Zion Church member, Cortonio Smith-Myles. In that workshop we learned the percentages of Men, Women, and Children with HIV / Aids. It was engaging and very enlightening. The meeting ended with information, and announcements pertaining to The Missionary Prayer Breakfast, Missionary Candle Light Service at Annual Conference. I reminded all churches to bring an offering to the conference for Communion service in Houston.

38 The outreach projects for this Conference year were vital to the community for instance; food, clothes, blankets, toiletries, and toys were given to homeless families and to local shelters. We provided female undergarments to the prison inmates in the Clark County Jail. Meals were provided to home bound seniors, Bible study, Prayer and Visitation of the sick and shut-in; everywhere we went it up lifted spirits. We shared with our hands outreached in missionary kindness, and love. Financially, the Missionaries have met all conference obligations. It s been recorded and reported in the following categories: Money sent to Executive Secretary Assessment: $ Walk a Mile $ World Hunger $ Annie L. Anderson $ Marie L. Clinton $ Yams $ Victoria Richardson $ Florence Randolph $ Life Members $ Total $ Money Paid for Quadrennial Registration & Meal Plans $4, Air Fare $3, Total $8, The remaining balance owing for the Missionary Quadrennial lodging is the cost of $4, In closing I thank God for what he has allowed us to accomplish this year as Missionaries. To Bishop Proctor, Missionary Supervisor, Elder, and Pastors, and members your prayer and support are greatly appreciated. Respectfully Submitted Sister Wilhelmena Stone, District President & District Officers

39 39 Section 5 Christian Education Department Reports

40 119 th Session of the Oregon-Washington Annual Conference CHRISTIAN EDUCATION DEPARTMENT Convening at the Hilton Hotel Vancouver, Washington July 05 - July 10, 2011 Community AME Zion Church - Host Church RESTORING THE MISSION RETOOLING THE LEADERSHIP REBUILDING THE COMMUNITY THEME FOR CHRISTIAN EDUCATION

41 To: The Right Reverend Dennis V. Proctor, Presiding Prelate of the Western Episcopal District, Mrs. D. Diane Proctor, Missionary Supervisor. Presiding Elder Emeritus Rev. Dr. L.J. Thompson; Presiding Elder Robert F. Kemp; The Rev Joyce Smith, Host Pastor; Pastors, Elders, Ministers, District & Conference Officers, Delegates, Visitors, members and friends of the 119 th Session of the Oregon-Washington Annual Conference. Jeremiah 29:11 For I know the plans I have for you, declares the LORD, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. To the one who reigns in Victory, Jesus the Christ, The District Officers of the Christian Education Department are offering the following report of accomplishments this year. We have nothing more to say but Thank you Lord for another year of working together because we know that working together works. One of the many Scriptures that has inspired me and encouraged me this year is Jeremiah 29:11. In studying the context of Jeremiah 29:11, I feel I have a better understanding of the true meaning. Even if you omit the contextualized words plans to prosper you and not to harm you, I believe this verse still has a very powerful message: God knows us personally, has a plan for us, and allows us to find hope in Him. The Churches in the Oregon-Washington Conference have been actively working in their Christian Education Departments on each level. One of the questions posed to the Directors this year was What does restoring the Mission mean to them? To me it means to bring back what was dead or dying. To revive and restore the mission of Christian Educators. To complete the task assigned to us, as if, nurturing a dying plant. The word says in John 15:1-7 I am the true vine, and my Father is the gardener. 2 He cuts off every branch in me that bears no fruit, while every branch that does bear fruit he prunes so that it will be even more fruitful. 3 You are already clean because of the word I have spoken to you. 4 Remain in me, as I also remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in me. I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing. 6 If you do not remain in me, you are like a branch that is thrown away and withers; such branches are picked up, thrown into the fire and burned. 7 If you remain in me and my words remain in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you. I ve received reports from all District Directors. All churches have been active in Christian Education.

42 District Director: Ms. Ophelia Ealey Sister Ealey has continued to make strides in communicating with Directors, and she has continued in her learning process of personal and spiritual growth. We are thankful for her willingness to continue to broaden her horizons as times continue to change. Her report speaks for itself as to her goals and accomplishments. District Director of Adults (ACE): Ms. Phyllis Carter Sister Phyllis active in her local Church in many areas. She performed a one man skit called Rev. Cash Carter. Sis Phyllis showed us that regardless of how they come our job is to make sure they come, and to help them along the way in receiving Jesus Christ as there personal Savior. Young Adult Director (YACM): Francisca Shaw Sister Fran is The Guru of Social Media. She is constantly on task with her , face book, texting, and keeping her group knowledgeable on the things going on in Zion across the country, and in our region. Fran is a great supporter of The Encounter. Sister Fran is encouraging all young adults to attend. Fran has held two conference calls this year, and is already looking forward to the coming year, and the things they have planned. Youth Director: Ms. Breanna Probasco-Canda What can you say about a person who is so full of life, and is able to multi-task in areas with out skipping a beat? Breanna has been a great inspiration to so many people. She too has been extremely busy this conference year. Breanna has preached her first trial discourse; she on more than one occasion has spoken at our District Fall and Spring Convocations. She was invited by Rev. Marva Edwards to speak at New Life for their Young Adult Sunday. Breanna continues to work toward bringing our Youth together, and getting them unified as a body. Children s Director: Mrs. Dorothy Poole Sister Poole actively working with the children and their directors to make sure their programs are implemented, and that they work tirelessly never giving up on our Children. Dorothy has traveled to other churches this year to make sure the programs are active. Dorothy is working locally in her Church, and with other Directors to plan a District wide gathering. Dorothy is an example of Joy in her Service for the Lord first, and the children second. VICYC Recording Secretary: Ms. Kymbreanna Elliott I ve known this young lady from birth. To watch her grow into a beautiful young woman, who is confident of who she is as a person, and to continue to watch her as God works thru her and in her is just a joy. You can t say enough about the duties she accomplishes monthly if not weekly in her position as a National Officer. Kymbreanna spends countless time on conference calls with the cabinet. In her local youth group she attends the bible studies on 2nd and 4th Sundays. She also sings in the group Adoration at her home Church. Kymbreanna has attended the majority of her District Meetings. Kymbreanna has set goals and aspirations for herself, and she is constantly encouraged by many to never forget who she is in Christ. I recall the mid winter meeting in Birmingham where Kymbreanna was deeply moved by what she experienced in the museum there. Watch out Oregon-Washington for the things God has in store for this young lady.

43 Conference Director: Mrs. Kathy Parrish The Conference year began with a new motivation, and hope in the plans the Lord has for me. We had two Conference Calls this year, in each meeting all Directors shared their plans, and shared their frustrations with being new in their appointed positions. Overall what we always ended with was an encouraging word that is always Scripture based. If I was only here to give an account for things accomplished I would just read a lot of numbers. We, the directors have agreed we don t want things to be the norm. In our last Conference call we agreed that we find strength in each other, and that if one hurts then we all hurt, and if one rejoices we all rejoice. I was asked the question by one of the directors, how I felt this year went? I simply replied, over all it went well but we can always do better. I ve attended all District Meetings. In the Fall Convocation I led a workshop on the Quadrennial Theme for the Christian Education Department. I supported Breanna when she delivered her trial discourse. In reading the directors reports, I can honestly say they have been doing the task that was put before them. I am happy to say that we as a board work well together. The expectations for the most part have been met. We all have committed to going higher & higher in Christian Education. Humbly Submitted Mrs. Kathy Parrish Conference Director for Christian Education Department

44 Oregon -Washington Annual Conference African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church Annual Conference Report Pauline A.M.E. Zion Church Vancouver, WA July 06, 2011 To: The Right Reverend Dennis V. Proctor, Presiding Prelate of the Oregon- Oregon/Washington Annual Conference, Rev. Robert F. Kemp, Presiding Elder, Reverend Dr. L.J. Thompson, Presiding Elder Emeritus, Reverend Joyce M. Smith, Host Pastor, Rev. Marva J. Edwards, C.E. Board Chairperson, Sis. Kathy Parrish, Conference Director, Ministers, District Officers, Superintendents of Church Schools, Delegates, Local Church Officers and Officers and Members of the Oregon / Washington Annual Conference I Ophelia Randall Ealy wish to submit the following report as C.E.District Director of The Oregon Washington Annual Conference I would like to thank all of you who supported the C.E. Department this year. We all thank you. The Officers and Members of the C.E. Department of the Oregon Washington Conference are continuing to be excited about our new quadrennial theme for st Century Christians: Restoring the Mission, Retooling the Leadership, Rebuilding the Community We pray that everyone will continue to use their study books and materials which have been carefully planed for all of us. These themes, if studied and applied, will truly be uplifting. The course of study includes children, young adults, adults and clergy. If you need more study books or if you don t have any please contact me or any district director to help you. Listed below are my activities, accomplishments, and obligations for : Ι visit all churches in the district this year I attended district conference, check up meeting and other district meeting I support my local church and attend my local church meeting I attend church school and bible class May 26, 2011 I was presented the 2 nd Annual Kerlikowski Community Volunteer Award of the year by The African American Community Advisory Council and the Police Department I am a member of the African American Community Advisory Council I attended the John T. Williams inquest. Williams was a Native American murdered by the Seattle Police August of 3

45 I am a card carrying member of the NAACP and of the Urban League. I am the chairperson of the Michael Randall Ealy Social Justice Foundation (An organization to fight police brutality and profiling.) I continue to study the bible and articles of religion and I also research other available books in the AMEZ Bookstore and other resources. I am happy to share books and materials that I have gained throughout the years of study and participation in the AMEZ Church. I have obtained the study guide for GRACE. I hope the C.E. Board will implement a plan so that it could be used in the district. I am always available to assist when needed for information and support in my Local church, district, conference, region and connection. Local Church Activities The District Directors are excited about what they are doing with their department Especially the children and Young Adult departments, we hope you will be excited also. The Churches in the Oregon-Washington Conference CE Department Are working and doing well. (Please see attached reports that I received) They are: Continuing Church Growth Church School Worship and Church programs Church school for children and youth Weekly bible study Classes for men, women, and youth Praise Teams Food Banks Observing annual events in the AMEZ Church as well as observing other annual events Visiting the sick and bereaved Community Outreach such as food banks, breakfast and lunch feeding programs, and clothing for the needy. Radio Outreach Program District Director s Recommendation As District Director, I hope and pray that we can improve in the following areas: Communication and working together because we know that working together works. Making sure information is shared with District directors as well as local church Directors. At our next District Conference a treasurer s report should be provided. Please make it a priority for each of us to know what project we are working on, so we will be sure to have all of our support. 2 of 3

46 Encourage Christian Educators, pastors and members to become card caring members of Christian education. Youth that are interested in running for district youth council 1. Should have an application signed by their pastor, local director, or presiding elder prior to the annual conference 2. Should be notified of the positions responsibilities 3. Should be trained for the position of interest prior to the annual conference. It would be helpful if the Board of Christian Education could meet occasionally at lease twice a year. It would be helpful if the CE Directors could meet: 1. At the beginning of the conference year for training of the curriculum and/or workshops 2. Six months later to monitor progress and address questions and concerns, Again I will stress the importance of communication for effective leadership from pastors, ministers, local and district directors. Final Comments Again the Christian Educators are asking for your continued prays for strength and courage to motivate and develop. May the Holy Spirit dwell within all of us in everything we do in Jesus Holy name. We pray that we practice good stewardship of time, talents, and resources and possesses a sensitively to the needs and concerns of others. Respectfully submitted, Ophelia Randall Ealy District Director of Christian Education 3 of 3

47 ANNUAL REPORT FOR ADULT CHRISTIAN EDUCATION DIRECTOR YEAR ENDING I SIS PHYLLIS M. CARTER SUMMIT THE FOLLOWING REPORT : My labors have been conducted at my church Ebenezer A.M.E Zion doing the work of the Lord every chance that comes along to teach, tell, instruct to let anyone know the importance of Christian education from the bible. I have talked to the class leaders on coming to Sunday school or bible study to learn about the bible and its teaching and training for life. My other mission has been teaching the word on Christian education at work the Boeing Company. Teaching out of the Sunday school book, and just starting from the beginning of the bible and on our bible study lessons as well. I try to do as much on Christian education as possible. Submitted by Minister Phyllis Carter

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60 60 Section 6 Evangelism Department Report

61 O R - W A A n n u a l C o n f e r e n c e Conference Director of Evangelism - Rev. William H. Dudley Report of the Board of Evangelism 119 th Session OR-WA Annual Conference Host Church Community A. M. E. Zion Church 3605 East 13th St. - Vancouver, WA Rev. Joyce M. Smith, Host Pastor July 5-10, 2011 To: Bishop Dennis V. Proctor, Missionary Supervisor Sister D. Diane Proctor, Presiding Elder Rev. Robert F. Kemp, Presiding Elder Emeritus Rev. L. J. Thompson, pastors, delegates, members and friends of the conference. Greeting in the name of Jesus, I am happy to bring this report of the conference s evangelistic activities. Board Activities The board met once this year at First A. M. E. Zion Church. We reorganized, reestablished our commitment to yearly dues and started preparations for Faith Sharing training session at First Church to occur on November 20, The Theme is Reigniting the Flame. We had 21 participates at that meeting. I made the same presentation at Ebenezer on February 19, 2011 we had 15 participates for a total of 36 persons. We want to thank Presiding Elder Kemp for seeing that the Cascade District supported this effort by purchasing some of the books. We want to thank the local board at First Church for their support and great efforts and the chair of the Board of Evangelism Rev. Probasco for getting this effort off the ground and seeing that the bibles were supplied. Working together works. Activities of Churches of the Cascade District District Director - Rev. Levi Harris Rev. Harris has been working to see that the local board directors send in regular reports and has visited on a few occasions in the district to support the work. He serves as Associate Pastor at Community AME Zion Church. Reports of churches for the year are as follows. 1

62 O R - W A A n n u a l C o n f e r e n c e Conference Director of Evangelism - Rev. William H. Dudley New Life The Pastor, Rev. Marva J. Edwards serves as the Local Director. Rev. Edwards continues to be diligent in spreading the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Thank you for your service. This board reports that they meet their goals this year with: 3 Recommitments to Christ 2 Joining the church 1 Healing 1 Baptism Evangelistic activities. They have observed the Evangelism days including Decision Day Several members attended the Faith-Sharing workshop and Evangelism training session Community The Local Director is Sister Rosemary Morgan-Harris. Sister Morgan-Harris has served in this position for a few years. Thank you for your service. Number of Active Members, 9 Number of meetings held, 8 This board reports that they meet their goals this year with: 4 Conversions 2 Recommitments to Christ 37 Joining the church 24 Baptism s Evangelistic activities. Observed Decision Day in October. We were blessed to have one conversion, one rededication and two people joined the church on this day. Friend and Family Several members attended the Faith-Sharing workshop and Evangelism training session and are implementing what they learned by investing and inviting people to church and sharing the Good News of Christ. Gone out once providing sandwiches to the homeless. Visited the sick in hospitals and at home. 2

63 O R - W A A n n u a l C o n f e r e n c e Conference Director of Evangelism - Rev. William H. Dudley Annual Fall Revival held in October 17-20, 2010 the guest revivalist was Rev. Stephen Pogue, pastor of Greater Cooper A.M.E. Zion Church, Oakland, Ca. Theme was Until The House is Clean, Thematic scripture was 1 Pet. 2: Community has canvased the area around the church and has placed door knockers on doors with a four block area and witnessed to the community. The Evangelism department has partnered with the Missionary Department and supplied underwear to women in Clark County Jail. They have donated toiletries to women in special housing for the abused. Pauline Memorial The Local Director is Francis Dzata. Brother Dzata has served in this position for several years, he is diligent and works hard to spread the good news of Jesus Christ. Thank you for your service. Number of active members: 5 Number of meeting held: 6 This board reports that they meet their goals this year with: 2 Conversions 7 Recommitted to Christ 9 Joining the local church 3 Healed 5 Baptized Evangelistic activities. Prayer service is held on Fridays at 6:30 p.m. Had combined men s prayer fellowship meetings with men from Church Apostolica Held joint Spiritual Outreach event with Church Apostolica Held Fall Revival on Oct. 29 th and 31th with the theme The power of Prayer for Restoration, Renewal, Reconciliation and Revival Matt. 17: The Revivalist was Rev. Levi Harris of Community A.M.E. Zion Church of Vancouver, WA. The board members continue to visit the sick in the hospital and homes Special prayer and alter call with 71 responses Family and Friends Day dinner Saturday April 16 and worship service on Sunday April 17, 2011 to reach out to the unsaved. Evangelist Maggie Weaver of Lifeline Church in Portland was the guest preacher at the Sunday worship service. The theme was God s Love Brings Salvation John 3:16. Some members attended the evangelism training at First Church in Portland Bro Francis also attended the Men s Day celebration at Community A.M.E. Zion church. 3

64 O R - W A A n n u a l C o n f e r e n c e Conference Director of Evangelism - Rev. William H. Dudley Ebenezer The Local Director is David Dudley. Brother Dudley has been reappointed in this position for the past 8 or 9 years. He has been successful working with the youth and men. But the biggest success has by been the Saturday Lunch Program. Thank you for your service. Number of Active Members, 5 Number of Meetings Held, 6 Partners for the Saturday Outreach Program are the Renton Celebration Four Square Church, the New Creation Christian Center of Seattle, Goodwill Baptist Church, and Kings Way Church of Covington the representatives of these churches help to prepare and serve sack lunches. They also give socks, pieces of clothing, toiletry items, Bibles and pray with people. They were able to make a presentation to Best Buy of Bellevue, WA. forming a partnership with them as a result. They also formed a partnership with The Black Child Development Institute, Seattle Chapter to help with establishing some neighborhood Christian activities for young people (The Alive and Free Program). The Evangelism Department went out with Seattle Operation Night Watch and prayed with the homeless and also canvased door to door. Our evangelism team will be leading an expanded team of Christians and community leaders in an effort to feed a greater number of people in the community. Ebenezer s revival was held October 25-26, The revivalist was Bishop Charles Dickerson. First Church This Local Director is Brother Maury Sails. This is Brother Sails first year as director, he is excited and he is working hard to achieve the goals of the local church. Thank you for your service. Number of Active Members, 14 Number of Meetings Held, 10 Number of Renewals, 7 Friday night outreach ministry is a group of local young adults (YACM) who meet and study the bible together. Brother Sails starts their study and is available to them if they have any questions. They are fired up and excited about God. The Faith Sharing training in a few weeks is specifically focused on helping to provide fuel and tools for these young persons as they share their witness with others purposefully outside the church. On Friday Feb. 18, 2011 they met at the YAMS Bible study to assess the faith-sharing training with two purposes: assessment and goal setting. This quarter they have outreached with Cornerstone Community Church who is interest in a joint bible study and to learn how to faith share. On Feb. 26, 2011 the local Director attended the Restore the village forum at the New Columbia villa to do outreach for the church. 4

65 O R - W A A n n u a l C o n f e r e n c e Conference Director of Evangelism - Rev. William H. Dudley Church Totals for the Conference Number of Active Members 30 Number of meetings held 9 How many were converted 6 How many renewals or recommitments to Christ? 12 How many joined the church? 48 How many were healed? 4 How many Baptism 30 Three revivals this year. Evangelistic Calendar 1. Decision Day Observance 2011 is October 23, Spiritual Emphasis Week was January 2 7, Cascade District Conference was January 20-22, Conference Director s Activities Number of sermon 9 Number of baptisms l Number of church visits 6 New Life 4 First l Pauline Memorial l Evangelizing door to door 2 Number of times celebrant l Number of local meetings attended 2 Ebenezer l First 1 Attended the revival at Ebenezer. October 25, An Effective Ambassador for Christ. 2 Corinthians 5:20a. Revivalist Bishop Charles Dickerson Attended one night of the Fall Crusade at Pauline Memorial. Held two training sessions on Faith Sharing. I designed new invitational tracts for this purpose which can be used at any of our churches. Humbly submitted, Rev. William H. Dudley Pastor Robert N. Probasco, Sr., Chair 5

66 66 Section 7 Lay Activities Report

67 From the Desk of the Conference President of Lay Activities To the 119 th Oregon Washington Annual Conference Of the African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church July 5 th 2011 July 10th 2011 To the Rt. Rev. Dennis Proctor Presiding Prelate, Rev. Robert F. Kemp, Presiding Elder, Host Pastor, Rev. Joyce M. Smith, Ministers, Conference and District Officers and Laity Of the 119 th Oregon Washington Annual Conference GREETINGS IN THE NAME OF MY LORD AND SAVIOR JESUS THE CHRIST. On behalf of the Board of Lay Activities I make the following report. The Connectional Lay Council theme: Maximizing Our Mission by Managing Our Ministry through: Education, Evangelism, Empowerment and Expansion This Annual Conference year sped ahead like a runaway train. I thank God that he was doing the driving. Each Local church caught the vision of appointing a Local Lay president. Each president was asked to attend a training meeting to discuss and answer questions. Schedules were an issue and it never happened. So a different approach materialized- training one on one with each local president! One major thrust of mine was to encourage each council to purchase the revised Connectional Lay Council Handbook and Study Guide materials. The challenge of educating local lay presidents and laity on the role of the department of Lay activities continues. We continue the dissemination of bookmarks, handouts and other materials to aid in this endeavor. The District Lay Pres. Rubye Hayden has innovative ideas and is on her way to understanding her supportive role to the district councils. She has provided individual reference packets to each local church council. I am asking lay presidents to Study to show themselves approved. I pray that God will bring clarity and understanding on the roles we have been assigned. Conference outreach accomplishments: Youth Optimist Oratorical Program Dental hygiene supplies outreach Evangelizing with food and salvation tracks Building denominational Loyalty throughout Conference by visiting

68 and supporting individual church activities. Monetary support to Bishop George J. Leake III Scholarship Increased Conference lay card carrying member in each church Oregon Washington Conference total 303 First A.M.E. Zion Church, Portland, Or. 119 Pauline Memorial A.M.E. Zion Church, Salem, Or. 36 Community A.M.E. Zion Church, Vancouver, WA. 61 New Life A.M.E Zion Church, Vancouver, WA. 7 Ebenezer A.M.E. Zion Church, Seattle, WA. 80 I traveled to Pauline A.M.E. Zion in Salem, Oregon to train and encourage the first year local lay president. The one on one training is paying off. God is bringing the increase. Each local lay council faces different challenges. I continue to pray for fruitful meaningful ministry. God has bought us from a mighty long way. We still have a lot of work to be done. We have some ailments-but we are yet alive. I am trusting in the Lord that he will work through us to accomplish a great work. My prayer is that we raise our level of expectation in ourselves and go above the rim! Areas of improvement: 1. Effective community evangelism 2. Meaningful annual fundraiser 3. Increase the local lay council programs This road is rough- it is not for the faint of heart. We continue to encourage, instruct and educate where ever possible. We are they; we must help ourselves be the change we seek. Continuing to pray for trained laity who are educated in the word of God- strong disciples of God. Not afraid of spreading the Gospel The Good news. IN ALL THY WAYS ACKNOWLEDGE HIM AND HE SHALL DIRECT THY PATHS Respectfully Submitted, PROVERBS 3:6 Sis. Gail Thomas, Conference Lay President of Lay Activities c: Bishop Dennis V. Proctor c: Rev. Joyce M. Smith, Chairperson, c: Presiding Elder Robert F. Kemp, c: Sis. Rubye Hayden, District Lay President

69 69 Section 8 Historian Report

70 119 th Session of the Oregon-Washington Annual Conference July 5-10, 2011 Vancouver, Washington CONFERENCE HISTORIAN REPORT To the Right Reverend Dennis V. Proctor, Presiding Prelate, Mrs. D. Diane Proctor, Missionary Supervisor, The Reverend Robert F. Kemp, Presiding Elder, the Reverend Joyce M. Smith, Host Pastor, Pastors, Ministers, Delegates, Annual Conference Officers, members and friends of the 119 th session of the Oregon-Washington Annual Conference; I, Geraldine (Gerri) Hart, submit the following report as the Conference Historian: My first report as the newly appointed historian for Conference Year may come as a surprise because it is not about what is past, but about who is living! There are some in First A.M.E. Zion Church, Portland, who may remember Mrs. Jewell Ferguson. I am happy to report she is alive and living on the Oregon Coast in Reedsport, Oregon where she has resided for over ten years. She celebrated her 100 th birthday on September 5, 2010 and will be 101 years old this coming September. When I saw an article about her in the September 29, 2010 Portland Observer, I immediately contacted the people it mentioned had gone to see her to celebrate her 100 th birthday. I wanted to call her so she and my mother Reverend Nellie B. Thompson (91 years of age) could talk. I first called Miss Jewell (as we used to call her) to find out when would be a good time for me to call her so she could talk to mom. What a delight when after I asked her if she remembered me and mom she replied: yes, I do! Then she said she would love to talk to mom. She said she had just put on her dinner (100 years old and I bet she cooks everyday, something even I don t do) and she was just getting ready to sit down in her chair. She then went on to tell me about a picture she had of the old choir at First Church and that everyone in the picture was gone except mom, my dad and her (see picture). Although I can t verify that fact because I do know of one person who is still alive, I believe Miss Jewell is correct all the rest have passed away! We talked a few moments about how good God is and how thankful she was to still be living. I then rushed over to moms to get the two of them connected. The conversation was not long and in my life it was a historical moment. Me: Miss Jewell: Me. Miss Jewell: Me: Mom: Miss Jewell: Hello, Miss Jewell? Yes. It s Gerri, Nellie Thompson s daughter. Remember I said I would call you so you could talk to mom? Yes. Here she is. Hello! Hello, Nellie, how are you?

71 Mom: Miss Jewell: Mom: Miss Jewell: Mom: Miss Jewell: Mom: Miss Jewell: Mom: Miss Jewell: Mom: Miss Jewell: Mom: I m doing as well as I can, dear. How are you? Just fine. Thank the good Lord everyday I m here. Never thought I would live to be this age. I know what you mean, I m 91 years old! (Laughs) You re still a youngster! (Laughing) No, I m just a few years behind you. You know we ve seen a lot in our day haven t we. Didn t think I d live to see a Black man be president, did you? No, I sure didn t. Just goes to show you how good God is! I trust in Him everyday, and thank Him everyday I open my eyes to a new day. Me too; I m not able to get around, but I m thankful I have a portion of my health and a good mind still. We had some good times back then, didn t we? Yes we did. I wish I could see you but I don t think I could make the long ride down there; how far is it? I don t know but if you ever can, please come and see me, Nellie. God bless you. God bless you too, love you. And that was the conversation short but so meaningful and brought back lots of memories to me and to mom also. Another person who is still with us from First Church is Mrs. Zelma Scarborough, who celebrated her 99 th birthday in January. Her family was the family we stayed with the day Vanport, Portland flooded and we lived with them for several months. I m still in contact with her daughter and hope to get her and mom connected by phone very soon. I want to mention here that when we lost Mrs. DeEtta (Morris) Thompson she was probably the oldest member of the Conference because she had been a member since childhood. Some of the history of the churches in this conference has already been told and I believe is available in the archives at First Church. I regret to report I ve not been to the archives as yet; but I give this report to tell you about two people who are still with us; two people who I remember as being very active in the church. What I remember most about Miss Jewell is that she was an usher, sang in the choir, and was a deaconess. Mom joined the church working - she made the first Christian flag for the church because she noticed there wasn t one; she organized and put on a fundraiser with women and girls in the church representing all the states in the United States 48 at that time (picture in archives), and she put on the very first crazy hat luncheon in this Conference. I m sure there are others we should be talking to before they pass on so m my request from each church is to let me know who the living history person/people are in your church and send me that information. We need to talk to the people who are still with us!! Respectfully submitted, Gerri Hart

72 Choir from First Church Portland circa Front Row: Mrs. Ethel Turner (Choir/Music Director); Mrs. Lillie Williams; Mrs. Effie Ray; Mrs. Jewell Ferguson,; Rev. Lloyd W. McCoy (Pastor), Rev. McCoy s sister?; Mrs. Addie P. Taylor, Mrs. Melodee Chester; Mrs. Thelma E. Fields; Reverend Nellie B. Thompson Second Row: Mrs. Evelyn? (still alive); Mrs. Lee O Nora Stuart; Mr. Bert Turner;?; Mrs. Olivia Taylor; Mr. David Taylor; Mrs. Lucille Whitehall; Reverend Odell Thompson Mrs. Pearline Butler (Phyllis Whitmore s mother); Mr. Jerry Stuart; Mrs. Nora Scarborough; Mr. Robert Winn, Jr.; Mrs. Tessie Flemmings.

73 73 Section 9 State of the Church Report

74 First A.M.E Zion Church * 4304 N. Vancouver Ave. * Portland, Oregon Pastor - Rev. Robert N. Probasco, Sr. The State of the Church in America, 2011 The state of the church today is very much the same as it has been for several years. Not much has happened to staunch the bleeding of membership of mainline protestant churches. Membership continues to slide and those who regularly attend Sunday services, as a rule, are shall we say chronologically gifted. Last year I stated that the average age of active churchgoers was 55 years. This year I learned that 55 years might be wrong. It could actually be higher by as much as ten years. According to the National Caregivers Library, the mean age of American churchgoers is actually 65 years. Whether the mean age is 55 or 65, it doesn t bode well for the future of the church unless we can find ways to attract and keep younger members. As has been the case for many, many years, it seems that in the United States, church attendance is still the highest among the lower income, among conservatives, and among married people. It is also still the highest in the Deep South and in the Midwest the traditional Bible belt. In the south, nearly half of the population attends church services weekly. One of the reasons for this is because people of the Baptist faith are among the most faithful churchgoers and more than two thirds of Baptists are in the south. There continues to be a large gender gap among regular church attendees in mainline Protestant Churches. In a recent ABC news poll, only 32% of men reported going to church on a regular basis, while 44% of women claimed regular attendance. In the South, the number of

75 First A.M.E Zion Church * 4304 N. Vancouver Ave. * Portland, Oregon Pastor - Rev. Robert N. Probasco, Sr. women 45 years old and older the number of regular church attendees goes all the way up to 68%. Interestingly enough, in what would be called more liberal denominations such as the Unitarians, that gender gap doesn t exist. In those churches, as opposed to the mainline churches, men regularly attend church as often, if not more often as the fairer sex. One of the unforeseen, but serendipitous, consequences of declining membership is that the Southern Baptist Convention elected its first African American to its number two position in the church. This was done partially to diversify its leadership in the face of declining membership. Although Southern Baptists are still the largest Christian denomination in the USA, they baptized fewer people in 2010 than at any time since the 1950 s. Electing a person of color was a very big step when you consider that the Southern Baptists came into being over the issue of race. They split from the American Baptist Convention over issues related to slavery, and as recently as the 1970 s were silent about the civil rights issue or actively opposed the civil rights movement. In conclusion, as much as I would wish it otherwise, the state of the church is very much as it has been for the past few years, with mainline denominations in decline and the more evangelical ones such as Mormons, Jehovah s Witnesses, and Assemblies of God actually gaining members.