Connectional Officers Sister Doris Bell, Rev. Lee Russell Brown, Sis Faye Walker, Sis. Andriette Bryant, Dr. Roberta Hill

Transcription

1 Thursday, October 19, TH SESSION OF THE TENNESSEE ANNUAL CONFERENCE MINUTES Opening Service 150 th Session of the Tennessee Annual Conference Presiding Elder Troy Merritt, Jr., Worship Leader - Procession Clergy and Conference Choir P. Troy Merritt Jr., Worship Leader, Come We That Love The Lord, Preacher Rev. W. Antoni Sinkfield, Payne Chapel AMEC,, TN Tet E. 17: 1-7 & Matthew 6: 19-2, An Eternal Inheritance and a Lasting Legacy! Roll of the TN Annual Conference Rev. Dennis D. Lawson, (Secretary Conference Year ) Actions Taken (see Conference Roll attached) - The Reverend Deter Norris was referred to Ministerial Efficiency Committee due to ecessive absences. - The Reverend Wanda F. Kelley requested an honorable discharge from the TAC and is referred to the Ministerial Efficiency Committee. - Reverends Eddie Sneed (Int. Elder), Jesse Mathers (Loc. Deacon) and Ruben Keesee (Superannuated) referred to Committee on Memorials. - Transfers to the TAC include: the Reverends Dr. Barbara Crawford (Itinerant Elder from KY Annual Conf.), Carl E. Watkins Jr., (Itinerant Deacon from Indiana Conf. 4 th Epis. Dist.), Janice McCoy (Itinerant Elder from 7 th Epis. Dist.), Everett Hobson (Itinerant Elder from KY Annual Conf.), Barbara Hobson (Itinerant Deacon from KY Annual Conf. Visitors to the Conference.Presiding Elders William W. Easley (KY AC), Terrance Mayes (ETN AC), Eva Settles (ETN AC), Linda Thomas Martin (WTN AC), Reverends Pedro Basden, A.J. Holman, Joshua Hale, William Billy Hale, Byron Moore, Sharon Moore, Randy Brown, George Turks, Dr. Jennifer Leath, Dr. Susan Leath (Supervisors of Missions, WMS) Connectional Officers Sister Doris Bell, Rev. Lee Russell Brown, Sis Faye Walker, Sis. Andriette Bryant, Dr. Roberta Hill District Officers Dr. Terence Mayes, Sis Angel Wilson, Dr. Roberta Hill, Sis. Dorothy Ealy, Sis. Gwen F. Dillihunt, Rev. Randal Webster (Sons of Allen) TAC Officers Bro. Darwin Eldridge (Lay President), Sis. Glady s Brock (Missionary President), Brother Bishaune Battle (RAYAC), Brother Sam E. Robinson (MCAM), Rev. Sherrie Scott (WIM), Rev. Jeffrey Norfleet (Sons of Allen). Announcements given by Dr. Ralph Johnson, Reverends Harold Love and Walter W. Reid. Instructions from Bishop Leath on how devotion will be conducted. Benediction Rev. W. Antoni Sinkfield Day Two Friday, October 20, 2017 Devotion Bishop J. N. Leath 1

2 Bishop Leath calls the 150 th Session of the Tennessee Annual Conference to order at 9:00 am Organization of the Conference - Presiding Elders Troy Merritt, Jr., Sydney F. Bryant and Daryl B. Ingram. Motion offered by P.E. Troy Merritt to elect the following persons Bishop Jeffery N. Leath, president, Dennis D. Lawson, secretary, Sis. Tracy Bradford, engrossing secretary, Rev. Lisa Hammonds, statistician Second P.E. Sidney Bryant; Motion carried. Presiding Elder Sidney Bryant offered the following persons as Marshalls to the TAC: the Reverends Anthony Thomas, Albert Strawther, Nathan Frey, Ashley Co, Frankie Witt, Cedric Bailey, Kenneth Odom, Talvin Barner Bishop Leath requested that a lay person from each presiding elder s district. Added Bro. Reginald Sadler, Bro. Luther Jones, Sis Melissa Eldridge to elect Presiding Elder Troy Merritt; Second by Presiding Elder. Finance Committee Rev. W. Antoni Sinkfield, Walter W. Reid, Ralph E. Johnson, Aleander Gaston, Trent Ogilvie, Brother Darwin Eldridge, Sis. Glady s Brock, Rev. Victor Goodman (e. Off.), Sister Faye Walker (e. Off). P. E. Ingram offered motion to elect the following persons Trier s of Appeal Rev. Linda Brown Saffore, Jeffrey Norfleet, Sharon Ogilvie and Wanda Payne Motion second and passed by the body. P.E. Troy Merritt offered motion to that the Boundaries of the Conference be the main floor of St. John, Lee Chapel, and Greater Bethel AMEC motion second and passed by body. P.E. Bryant moved that the Agenda of the Conference be as outlined in the conference booklet with necessary adjustments.second and passed by the body. Board of Eaminers Report (report below ) the Rev. Lisa Hammonds reporting. Tanya Mason, age 47 (8/23/70), divorced with no dependent children. She is a member of Payne Chapel AME Church in, Tennessee, where the Rev. W. Antoni Sinkfield is the pastor. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from American Baptist College. She is currently enrolled at Payne Theological Seminary pursuing her Masters of Divinity degree. She completed all coursework and attendance requirements both on the district and conference levels. She is in possession of the required books. She has ehibited a functional knowledge and proficiency for the class of Admissions. She has completed the Ministry Safe program and successfully taken the eam, registered for the background check, and completed a psychological eam. We, therefore, recommend she be admitted to the Tennessee Annual Conference on trial and advanced to First Year Studies in itinerant relations. Motion to accept recommendation from Rev. W. Antoni Sinkfield; motion second and passed by the body. Tremaine Sails-Dunbar, age 26 (8/5/91), single with no dependent children. He is a member of St. Luke AME Church in, Tennessee, where the Rev. Barbara Crawford is the pastor. He holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from American Baptist College. He is currently enrolled at Vanderbilt Divinity pursuing his Master of Divinity degree. He completed all coursework and attendance requirements both on the district and conference levels. He is in possession of the required books. He has ehibited a functional knowledge and proficiency for the class of Admissions. He has completed the Ministry Safe program and successfully 2

3 taken the eam, registered for the background check, and completed a psychological eam. We, therefore, recommend he be admitted to the Tennessee Annual Conference on trial and advanced to First Year Studies in itinerant relations. Motion to accept recommendation Presiding Elder Troy Merritt; Motion second by St. Luke delegate Sis. Shirley Timerlake motion carried. Prayer offered by Dr. Kenneth Hill. First Year Studies John Cummings, Jr., age 53 (3/14/64), married with no dependent children. He is a member of Payne Chapel AME Church in, Tennessee, where the Rev. W. Antoni Sinkfield is the pastor. He is currently a junior at Welch College pursuing his Bachelor of Arts degree. He completed all coursework and attendance requirements both on the district and conference levels. He is in possession of the required books. He has ehibited a functional knowledge and proficiency for the class of First Year Studies. He has completed the Ministry Safe program and successfully taken the eam. We, therefore, recommend he be advanced to Second Year Studies in local relations. Corwin Davis, age 23 (8/25/94), single with no dependent children. He is a member of Lee Chapel AME Church in, Tennessee, where the Rev. Harold Love, Jr. is the pastor. He holds a Bachelor of Arts degree with honors from Belmont University. He is currently enrolled at Vanderbilt Divinity School pursuing a Master of Divinity degree. He completed all coursework and attendance requirements both on the district and conference levels. He is in possession of the required books. He has ehibited a functional knowledge and proficiency for the class of First Year Studies. He has completed the Ministry Safe program and successfully taken the eam. We, therefore, recommend he be advanced to Second Year Studies in itinerant relations. Jimmy Handley, Jr., age 48 (2/3/69), married with dependent children. He is a member of Payne Chapel AME Church in, Tennessee, where the Rev. W. Antoni Sinkfield is the pastor. He holds a Bachelor of Business Administration from Lipscomb University. He has completed 12 hours toward his Master of Divinity degree from Lipscomb University. He completed all coursework and attendance requirements both on the district and conference levels. He is in possession of the required books. He has ehibited a functional knowledge and proficiency for the class of First Year Studies. He has completed the Ministry Safe program and successfully taken the eam. We, therefore, recommend he be advanced to Second Year Studies in itinerant relations. Melvin Hart, age 43 (12/13/73), married with two dependent children. He is a member of Payne Chapel AME Church in, Tennessee, where the Rev. W. Antoni Sinkfield is the pastor. He holds a Bachelor of Science from Central State University. He requests a leave of absence from the board. We, therefore, recommend he be ecused from studies until further notice. Motion offered by P.E. Sydney Bryant to accept the recommendations of the Board. Second Rev. Miriam Debro. Motion carried. Second Year Studies 3

4 Angellette Warfield, age 46 (1/18/71), divorced with custody of a minor grandson. She is a member of St. Paul AME Church, Oakwood, Tennessee, where the Rev. Jeffrey Norfleet, Sr. is the pastor. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree from Austin Peay State University. She has previously completed all the coursework and attendance requirements for Second Year Studies and requested her ministerial track be changed from itinerant to local. She has completed the Ministry Safe program and successfully taken the eam. We, therefore, recommend she be elected and ordained a Local Deacon to serve at St. Paul AME Church, Oakwood. Motion to accept recommendation by Rev. Jeffrey Norfleet, Second by Sis. Melissa Eldridge; motion carried. Prayer offered by Bishop Leath. Third Year Studies The Rev. Kendell Jackson, age 37 (7/13/80), is married with two dependent children. He is a member of Greater Ebenezer AME Church in Clarksville, Tennessee, where the Rev. Aleander Gatson is the pastor. He has both an Associate of Arts and Bachelor of Science degree from Liberty. He is currently pursuing a Master of Divinity degree from Regent University. The Rev. Jackson serves as an active person in the military and is currently deployed in Germany. As he is serving his country, practicing ministry while abroad, and continuing his studies, we recommend he be advanced to Fourth Year Studies in itinerant relations. The Rev. Candace Charlene Perkins, age 30 (12/03/86), is single with no dependent children. She is a member of Greater Bethel AME Church in, Tennessee, where the Rev. Walter W. Reid, Jr. is the pastor. She has a Bachelor of Professional Studies degree from University of Memphis and Master of Divinity degree from Payne Theological Seminary. She completed all coursework and attendance requirements both on the district and conference levels. She is in possession of the required books. She has ehibited a functional knowledge and proficiency for the class of Third Year Studies. She has completed the Ministry Safe program and successfully taken the eam. We, therefore, recommend that she be advanced to Fourth Year Studies in itinerant relations. Motion to advance to 4 th Year of Studies by Rev. Walter W. Reid, Jr., second P.E. Troy Merritt; motion carried. Fourth Year Studies The Rev. Cedric Jackson Bailey, Sr., age 56 (8/18/61), married with no dependent children. He is a member of Lee Chapel AME Church in, Tennessee, where the Rev. Harold Love, Jr. is the pastor and is serving as the supply pastor for St. Luke AME Church in Erin, Tennessee. He has a Bachelor of Science degree from Tennessee State University and is applying to Payne Theological Seminary for admission in Spring He completed all coursework and attendance requirements both on the district and conference levels. He is in possession of the required books. He has ehibited a functional knowledge and proficiency for the class of Fourth Year Studies. He has completed the Ministry Safe program and successfully taken the eam. We, therefore, commend his commitment to the Board of Eaminers and the ministerial process and recommend he be placed in the on hold status until he completes the educational requirements to be elected and ordained an Itinerant Elder. 4

5 Motion to accept recommendation Rev. Lisa Hammonds; Second and passed by the body. Fourth Year Studies On Hold The Rev. Omaran Lee, age 38 (4/15/79), married with two dependent children. He is a member of St. Paul AME Church in, Tennessee where the Rev. Andre Washington is the pastor. The Rev. Lee is currently serving as the pastor of St. James AME Church in, Tennessee. He holds a Bachelor of Arts from Fisk University and received his Master of Divinity degree from Lipscomb University in May He has previously completed all the coursework and attendance requirements of the Board of Eaminers. He has completed the Ministry Safe program and successfully taken the eam. We, therefore, recommend that he be elected and ordained an Itinerant Elder. Motion by Rev. Harold M. Love, Jr., to elect and ordain the Rev. Omaràn D. Lee an Itinerant Elder; second by P.E. Troy Merritt; motion carried. Prayer by Bishop Jeffrey N. Leath. Motion to receive the report of the Board of Eaminer s in its entirety by Rev. Lisa Hammonds; Second Rev. W. Antoni Sinkfield. The Tennessee Annual Conference Board of Eaminers Reverend Lisa Hammonds, Chairperson Reverend W. Antoni Sinkfield, Dean The Tennessee Annual Conference Committee on Instruction Reverend Randy Webster, Admissions Reverend Anica Howard, 1st Year Reverend Walter Reid, 2nd Year Reverend James McKissack, 3rd Year Reverend Kenneth Hill, 4th Year Reverend Benessa Sweat Reverend Sonja Brown DeLoatch Reverend Frederick Jenkins Reverend Dennis Lawson Reverend Marlon Crawford Reverend Trent Ogilvie Bishop Leath issued a statement of transfer for Bro. Wesley Stovall from the WTC to the TAC in 2 nd Year Studies. Presiding Elder s Summary Report...P.E. Sidney F. and Mrs. Andriette Bryant South District; P.E. Troy Merritt Jr. District; P.E. Daryl B. Ingram North District PASTORAL REPORTS - Bishop Leath stated that each presiding elder would call five churches per presiding elder district beginning with the smallest charge. The reports would be given in the following 5

6 order South, and North Districts. South District Rev. Sidney F. Bryant Mt. Zion Centerville Rev. Talvin Barner (supply), delegate Bro. Frankye Ward. New Bethel Rev. Kenneth Odom (supply), last service held at New Bethel held on Sunday, Oct. 15 th. Church to be merged with Webb Grove. Resolute referred to Committee on Missions, Circuits and Stations delegate Sis. Cleo Martin. Allen Bethel Rev. James Scuggs reporting, Bro. Phillip Hightower delegate. Claiborne Chapel Rev. Linda Hopkins, Bro. Jeff delegate. St. Matthew Cornersville Rev. Ashley Co, delegate Bro. Will Marsh. Canaan Dr. James McKissack, delegate Sis. Ruth Mayes. Roberts Chapel Rev. Veronica Dailey (supply), Delegate Bro. Luther Jones. Hopewell, Columbia Rev. Veronica Mathers Jones, delegate Sis. Inez Beasley. Mullins Chapel Rev. Christopher Grizzard, delegate Sis. Allie DaShield. Jones Chapel Rev. Sharon Ogilvie, delegate Sis Fannie Wells. Bethel Chapel Rev. Trent Ogilvie, delegate Sis. Stephanie Bater. Woodfork Chapel Rev. Randy Webster, delegate Sis. Bonita Stewart. Shorter Chapel Dr. Kenneth Hill, delegate Sis Carol Greenlee. Webb Grove Rev. LaVan Strickland, delegate Sis. Marie Bulter. Wayman Chapel Rev. Victor Goodman, delegate Bro. James Caruthers. Allen Chapel Rev. Jimmie Plummer (ecused due to illness of Sis. Debbie Plummer), delegate Bro. Phil Sanders acknowledged. St. Paul Columbia Rev. Dennis Lawson, I, delegate Sis Tammy Robinson. Greater Bethel Rev. Walter Reid Jr., delegate Sis. Linda Faye Bentley. District Rev. Troy Merritt, Jr., Presiding Elder Turner Chapel Rev. Albert Strawther, Jr., delegate Bro. James King Howard Chapel Rev. Albert Strawther, Jr., delegate Sis. Beverly McCadden Mt. Olive Rev. Barry Co, delegate Sis Cynthia Herron. Winter s Chapel Rev. Sonya Brown DeLoatch, delegate Sis. Audrey Rhodes. Green Chapel Rev. Marlan Crawford, delegate Sis. Grace Moreland. St. James Rev. Omar an Lee, delegate Sis. Esther Gardner. St. Peter Rev. Nathan Frey, delegate Bro. William Posey. Ebenezer Rev. Wanda Payne, delegate Sis. Josephine Jackson. St. Phillip Rev. Joe T. Southall, delegate Sis. Carolyn Snorton. New Salem Rev. Anica Howard, delegate Sis. Joann Million. St. Luke Gallatin Rev. Anthony Thomas, delegate Sis. Shirley Timberlake. St. Paul Rev. Andre Washington, delegate Sis. Shirley Wylie. St. Luke Rev. Barbara Crawford, delegate Bro. Keith Pitts, alternate Sis. Maine McCray. Smith Chapel Rev. Fred Beasley, Sr., delegate Bro. William Fuqua. St. Matthew, Rev. Reginald Brock, delegate Sis. Linda Bailey. Scotts Chapel Rev. Frederick Jenkins, Sr., delegate Bro. Reginald Sadler. Kairos Community Rev. Garrett Copeland, delegate Dr. Gloria Reese. St. John Rev. Ralph Johnson, delegate Sis Margaret Jarrett. Payne Chapel Rev. W. Antoni Sinkfield, Sr., delegate Bro. James Floyd. North District Rev. Sidney F. Bryant, Presiding Elder 6

7 Moore s Chapel Rev. Raymond Corbin, delegate Sis. Cindy Schrag reporting St. Paul Ashland City Rev. Verissa Cora Williams (supply), delegate Bro. James Taylor. St. Matthew Clarksville Rev. Deshnell Cobbin, delegate Sis. Darlene Page. St. James Pryorsburg Rev. Donna Lorhorn, delegate Sis. Wanda Morris. Mt. Zion Charlotte Rev. Frankie Witt, Sr., delegate Sis. Effie Haynes. Sulphur Spring Rev. Anthony Lyle Sr., delegate Sis. Sherry Washington. McGavock Chapel Rev. Benessa Perkins Sweat, delegate Bro. Joel Wicks, alternate Sis. Elaine Hagan. St. Luke Erin Rev. Cedric Bailey, Sr. (supply), delegate Sis. Olivia Vandeburg. St. James Mayfield Rev. Rita Story, delegate Sis. Laurie Runnells. First AMEC Pegram Rev. Linda Brown Saffore, delegate Sis. Michelle Gordon. Martin Chapel Rev. Sherrie Scott, delegate Sis. Geraldine Keesee. St. James Dickson Rev. Vivian Canty, delegate Sis. Donna Holt Pollard. St. John Springfield Dr. Donald Williams, delegate Sis. Tennille Chapman. St. John Paducah Rev. James Bolen Sr., delegate Sis. Candy Morris. Salter s Chapel Rev. Everett Hobson, delegate Sis. Kris Pearson. St. Paul Oakwood Rev. Jeffery Norfleet, Sr., delegate Sis. Melissa Eldridge. Burks Chapel Rev. Babydoll Kennedy, delegate Sis. Linda Bell. Greater Ebenezer Clarksville Rev. Aleander Gatson, delegate Sis Faye Perkins. St. Peter Clarksville Rev. Lisa Hammonds, delegate Sis. Capri Griffey Elliot. Lee Chapel Rev. Harold M. Love, Jr., delegate Sis. Tracey Bradford. Memorial Service Rev. Anthony Lyles Worship Leader Memorialized were the Reverends Eddie Sneed, Jesse Mathers Jr., and Ruben Keesee. Pastoral Reports continued following the Memorial Service. Visitors to the TAC included Presiding Elder Robert Finch, Rev. Walter Henry U.S. Representative Jim Cooper. Congressmen Cooper read a proclamation honoring the Christian Recorder as the oldest African American publication in the United States. Proclamation was read on the floor of Congress. Spiritual Revival Moment.Rev. Sharon Ogilvie Worship Leader Rev. Sherrie Cowley Scott preacher Tet Matthew 6: 9-13 Give Us this Day Our Daily Bread Following the Benediction Business Section is adjourned until 2:45 p.m. Business Section II called to order by Bishop Leath at 2:45 p.m. Tennessee Annual Conference Committees - Committee on Resolutions Bishop Leath added Rev. Paulette Woodard to committee. Rev. Woodard will serve as chairperson. - Thirteenth District Budget Committee Report Sis. Barbara Ivery reporting (see report) Sis. Ivery highlighted budget points and recommended ratification of actions stated in report. Motion to ratify by P.E. Troy Merritt Jr.,; Second by Rev. W. Antoni Sinkfield; motion carried. - Bishop Leath called for motion for the TAC to ratify District Budget epense allocations provided the total does not eceed the current amount. Motion to ratify offered by P.E. Sidney Bryant; Second and passed by body. 7

8 - Bishop opened the floor for acknowledgement and approval of Audit. Motion offered by Rev. Anica Howard. Second and passed by the body. Motion carried. - TAC Treasurer Report Rev. Victor Goodman reporting (see report). Motion offered by Rev. Trent Ogilvie to adopt the Treasurer Report; Second P.E. Troy Merritt Jr., Bro. Darwin Eldridge raised a question on the investment of funds designated at the last annual conference. Bishop Leath indicated there was a delay as matters pertaining to the incorporation of the annual conference needed attention (a lapse in the corporate status). It was agreed there will be an update presented at the Midyear Session. Motion carried. - Mission, Circuits and States Rev. LaVan Strickland (reporting) Report on hold per Bishop Leath. - Pastors, Charges and Classification Rev. Anica Howard reporting (see report). Motion to adopt by Rev. W. Antoni Sinkfield; Second Rev. Anthony Thomas; Motion carried. - Social Action Rev. Harold M. Love Jr., reporting (see report). Common Consent. - CMDC (see report). Common Consent. - Evangelism Report received as information only. Bishop Leath outlined some proposed actions to be taken on tomorrow relative to local church indebtedness, pastoral duties and pastoral compensation. The component reports continued: - Christian Education Rev. Linda Brown-Saffore reporting (see report). Common Consent. - TAC WMS Sis. Gladys s Brock reporting. Common consent. - RAYAC Bro. Bishaune Battle (see report). Common Consent. - Sons of Allen Rev. Jeffrey Norfleet Sr. reporting Common Consent. - State of Country Rev. Randal Webster (see report) Common Consent. Benediction Rev. Raymond Corbin The Service of Word, Ordination, and Holy Communion Dr. Kenneth Hill, Worship Leader Visitors to the TNC included Bishop Cornal Garnett Henning, Sr. (retired), Bishop Clement W. Fugh and Supervisor Aleia B. Fugh, and delegation from the Fifth Episcopal District (over 150 persons). A special welcome was etended to Bishop and Mrs. Fugh by Dr. Phyllis Quarles Brooks, Greater Bethel AMEC. Bishop Leath presented Retired Bishop Henning who addressed the Conference. Recognition of Supervisor Aleia Fugh who greeted the TAC. Bishop Leath also acknowledged the presence of 13 th District Supervisor Dr. Susan Leath. Bishop Fugh and the Fifth Episcopal District presented the TAC a gift of $5, In celebration of being admitted on Trial to the West Tennessee Conference on October 20, 1967 the TAC presented Bishop Fugh with a commemorative timepiece (pocket watch). Sermon Bishop Clement W. Fugh Tet Isaiah 6:1 and Luke 4: 22 Subject Tell Then Even If They Don t Believe You Day 2 Saturday, October 21, 2017 TAC opens with devotion lead by Bishop Jeffrey N. Leath 8

9 Summary of Church School Rev. Linda Brown Saffore, TAC Director Dr. Barbara Crawford, pastor St. Luke AMEC, facilitator.warp-up and discussion. Tennessee Conference Report - Health and Wellness Commission Dr. Connie Graves, Director (see report) Sis Linda Bell reporting. Report accepted by Common Consent - State of the Church Rev. Babydoll Kennedy (see report) Motion by P.E. Troy Merritt to accept; Second Rev. James Scruggs; Motion carried. - Believe Inc. Rev. Aleander Gatson (see report) Report accepted as information only. - Missions, Circuits and Station Rev. Linda Brown Saffore (see report) (1) Presiding Elder District name changes a. North District will change to North District. b. South District will change to South District. c. District name will remain the same. Rationale: the name changes will reduce confusion of districts and the locale of stations. Name change of the Presiding Elder District Motion to accept Rev. Trent Ogilvie; Second Rev. Aleander Gatson Unready Dr. Daryl Ingram; Motion carried. (2) New Bethel AME Church, Murfreesboro, TN will merge with Webb Grove AME Church, Murfreesboro, TN and the new name, New Webb Grove AME Church. Rationale: A very low membership and Church s inability to sustain itself. Delegate from Webb Grove Sis Marie Butler ok with the recommended name of new church; Motion to accept recommendation by Rev. Barry Co; Second P.E. Sidney Bryant; Motion carried. Delegate from Webb Grove Sis Marie Butler offer motion that the membership of New Bethel be transferred to Webb Grove. Second Sis. Carolyn Snorton; motion carried. Motion by P.E. Sidney Bryant that the name of the merged church is New Webb Grove; motion second and passed by TAC. (3) Lee Chapel AME Church move from the North District to the South District. Motion to accept Rev. James Scruggs; Second Rev. Babydoll Kennedy; motion carried. Rationale: The distance from to Clarksville for Lee Chapel and define the North District as stations mostly Northwest of. As a result of these recommendations, the Presiding Elder Districts will be as follows: 9

10 District Payne Chapel, St John, Kairos Community, Scott s Chapel, Hermitage St Matthew, St Luke, Gallatin Smith Chapel, Bethpage St Luke, St Paul, New Salem, St Phillip, Wanda Payne, St Peter, St James, Green Chapel, Hartsville Winters Chapel, Lebanon Howard Chapel, Hartsville Mt Olive, Lebanon Turner Chapel, Carthage North District St. Peter, Clarksville Greater Ebenezer, Clarksville Burks Chapel, Paducah St Paul, Oakwood Martin Chapel, Clarksville Salter s Chapel, Waverly St John, Paducah St John Springfield St James Dickson First AME, Pegram St James, Mayfield St Luke, Erin McGavock Chapel, Charlotte Sulphur Spring, Cunningham Mt Zion, Charlotte St James, Pryorsburg St Matthew, Clarksville St Paul, Ashland City Moore s Chapel, Clinton South District Lee Chapel, Greater Bethel, St Paul, Columbia Allen Chapel, Murfreesboro Wayman Chapel, Columbia Woodfork Chapel, Shelbyville Bethel, Columbia New Webb Grove, Murfreesboro Shorter Chapel, Franklin Mullin Chapel, Shelbyville Jones Chapel, Mt Pleasant Cannon, Columbia Allen-Bethel, Lewisburg Claiborn Chapel, Williamsport St Matthew, Cornersville Hopewell, Columbia Robert s Chapel, Linden Mt Zion, Centerville St. Matthew Rossville What is mission status? What will they be epected to pay or not pay. Presiding Elder Ingram stated that St. Matthew will only pay central budget per report from last Conference Year. They are relieved of everything ecept General Budget. Motion by Rev. Linda Brown Saffore to accept report of Missions, Circuits and Station as a whole. Second by Sis. Carolyn Snorton. Motion carried. - Discussion of Pastor/Steward relationships and epectations. Any new indebtedness greater than $10,000 must be approved by the TAC Trustees. This would include but not limited to: financing of various sundry items as well as any other transactions. Discussion from the floor Motion to accept Bro. Darwin Eldridge; Second Rev. Sonya Deloatch. Motion carried. - The pastor and stewards will negotiate the epectation of the pastor. Motion to accept Rev. Sonya Deloatch; second Rev. Omarian Lee. Motion carried. - Stewards shall not negotiate a salary and benefits package that eceeds the capacity of the congregation s ability to pay unless the stewards are going to take personal responsibility for fulfillment of financial commitment. Motion to accept recommendation Rev. Everett Hobson. Second Rev. Reginald Brock. - Bro. Keith Pitts, delegate St. Luke offered a motion that any spoken, written, or implied agreement for compensation with the pastor should include the language found in the Discipline if available or if the church is able. Second Rev. Everett Hobson. Motion carried. - Any indebtedness of congregation to pastors for compensation must be paid before the sitting of the Annual Conference or the funds be forfeited unless there is a written approval by the 10

11 Presiding Elder and Bishop Motion to accept recommendation by Bro. Keith Pitts, delegate St. Luke second motion carried. - Finance Report Rev. Trent Ogilvie, secretary Bro. Darwin Eldridge reporting (see report for committee members) Motion to adopt Finance Report by Presiding Elder Sidney Bryant second Rev. Victor Goodman motion carried. - Statistician s Report Rev. Lisa Hammonds reporting (see report) Motion to accept statistical report by Rev. Lisa Hammonds second Rev. Anica Howard motion carried. - Young People s Division (YPD) Election Results (see report) - Ministerial Efficiency Committee Dr. Ralph E. Johnson, chairperson Rev. Lisa Hammonds reporting (see report) Item 1). Rev. Deter Norris Referred to the MEC due to ecessive absences. Motion offered that Rev. Norris name be dropped from the Roll of the TAC by Rev. Ralph E. Johnson...Second Presiding Elder Troy Merritt motion carried. Item 2). Rev. Wanda F. Kelley Request to withdraw from Tennessee Annual Conference and African Methodist Episcopal Church. Motion to grant request offered by Rev. Ralph E. Johnson Second Rev. Janet Seay Unready Presiding Elder Sidney Bryant as it relates to the language of the motion. Should it read request an Honorable Discharge After discussion and clarification by Bishop Leath motion carried. Item 3). Rev. Carl E. Watkins, Jr. (Int. Deacon) Transfer from the Indiana Conference of the Fourth Episcopal District Motion by Presiding Elder Sidney Bryant to accept transfer with necessary stipulations second Presiding Elder Troy Merritt motion carried. Item 4). Rev. Janice McCoy (Int. Elder) Transfer from the Central Conference of the Seventh Episcopal District Motion by Rev. Harold M. Love, Jr., to accept transfer with necessary stipulations second Rev. Lisa Hammonds motion carried. Rev. Ralph E. Johnson offers motion to ecept the report of the MEC as a whole Second Rev. Trent Ogilvie motion carried. Bishop Leath presented Dr. James Wade, General Officer who addressed the TAC. Visitors to the TAC included: Dr. John and Dr. Janie Dandridge WTC. - Budget Committee Rev. W. Antoni Sinkfield (see report) Motion to adopt the Budget Committee Report offered by Rev. Nathan Frey Second Dr. James G. McKissack motion carried. - Presiding Elder s Support Rev. Walter W. Reid, chairperson Rev. Babydoll Kennedy reporting (see report). Motion to adopt report by Rev. Trent Ogilvie; second Rev. James Scruggs motion carried. 11

12 TAC Trustee Report Presiding Elder Sidney Bryant, chairperson Rev. Lisa Hammonds, secretary reporting (see report) Recommendations for the Annual Conference: 1. The Tennessee Annual Conference receives the report on the sale of Hills Chapel and authorizes the disposition of proceeds from the sale. Motion by P.E. Sidney Bryant to accept recommendation second Rev. Anthony Thomas motion carried 2. The Tennessee Annual Conference receives the report on the Mt. Juliet funds as information. Recommendation accepted by Common Consent 3. The Tennessee Annual Conference authorizes the trustees to continue to identify and investigate under-utilized properties to maimize possibilities for rental and sale. Recommendation accepted by Common Consent 4. The Tennessee Annual Conference authorizes the Trustees to sell properties at Wingo (KY), Murfreesboro (New Bethel), and Wartrace (St. Paul). Motion to accept recommendation by Rev. Harold Love Jr second P.E. Troy Merritt Jr motion carried. 5. That, Cemetery Associations be established in every community where our churches hold cemetery property. These associations will be a point of future references in the management of cemetery lands. Recommendation accepted by Common Consent Presiding Elder Sidney F. Bryant offers motion to adopt the report of the TAC Trustees as a whole Second Bro. Ron Mitchell motion carried. Motion to elect TAC Trustees by Presiding Elder Sidney F. Bryant Second Rev. Aleander Gatson motion carried. Announcement Atty. Walter Searcy informs the body of a petition concerning epanding the Mass Transit System of Metropolitan and Davidson County Tennessee. All person present were ask to sign petition in order to get this matter before the Metropolitan Council and on ballot. - Legislative Task Force Rev. Omaran D. Lee reporting (see report) Motion to accept report Presiding Elder Sidney F. Bryant second Dr. James G. McKissack motion carried. - Committee on Instructions Rev. W. Antoni Sinkfield reporting (see report) Bishop Leath stated that the Board of Eaminer s would be appointed during the closing of the Tennessee Annual Conference The following persons were recommended to the Committee on Instructions: Reverends Randal Webster, Anica Howard, James G. McKissack, Benessa Perkins Sweat, Frederick Jenkins Sr., Marlon Crawford Motion to accept recommendations Rev. W. Antoni Sinkfield second Rev. Lisa Hammonds motion carried. Disciplinary Questions Rev. Dennis D. Lawson, secretary Actions taken 12

13 - Question 1). Who remain on trial Bro. Melvin Hart requested a leave of absence from the board. We, therefore, recommend he be ecused from studies until further notice, therefore, it is recommended that his name be deleted from the TAC Board of Eaminer s Roll. Motion to accept recommendation by Rev. W. Antoni Sinkfield second Rev. Walter W. Reid motion carried. - - Bishop Leath stated that per new Discipline the following question should be added to the Disciplinary Questions Does each station, circuit, or mission of this Annual Conference have a HIV Ministry? - Question 19). When shall this Annual Conference net meet?...week of October 18 21, Question 21). Where shall this Annual Conference net meet? Bro. James Caruthers the delegate of Wayman Chapel AMEC Columbia, Tennessee on behalf of the Columbia Maury County AME Churches invites the 151th Session of the Tennessee Annual Conference to Wayman Chapel AMEC. Motion to accept invitation offered by Presiding Elder Sidney F. Bryant Second Rev. Trent Ogilvie motion carried. - Pastoral Report Allen Chapel Rev. Jimmie L. Plummer reporting. TAC adjourned with benediction Rev. Jimmie L. Plummer. **Celebration of the 150 th Session of the Tennessee Annual Conference St. John AMEC Host Church, Dr. Ralph E. Johnson, Pastor Rev. W. Antoni Sinkfield, Worship Leader/Committee Chair Keynote Speaker, Dr. Jamye Coleman Williams, Retired General Officer and Editor of The AME Church Review Commitment For The Future Celebrating the past, Dr. Dennis C. Dickerson, Retired General Officer Celebrating the Present, Rev. Babydoll Kennedy, Pastor - Burkes Chapel AME Church Celebrating our Possibilities, Master Camron Stuart, St. John AMEC special quest The Tennessee State University Meistersingers. 13

14 2017 Tennessee Annual Conference Roll 150TH SESSION OF THE TENNESSEE ANNUAL CONFERENCE ROLL CALL NAME CHURCH CONF ORD 2017 AC 2016 AC 2015 AC COMMENT Leath, Bishop Jeffrey N. Supervisor Mission, Youth and Children Leath, Dr. Susan (Visitor to Conf.) Visitor GENERAL OFFICERS Belin, Rev. Roderick D. Lewis, Dr. Richard A EXC/LATE PRES/EXC Thomas III, Mr. John EXC Coleman, Dr. Paulette (retired) EXC/LATE PRES/EXC Dickerson, Dr. Dennis (retired) HILL, Dr. Kenneth (retired) PRESIDING ELDERS Bryant, Sidney Oct-78 PRES/EXC Ingram, Darryl (Supply 10th Epis. Dist.) Merritt Jr., Troy Oct-81 ITINERANT ELDERS - PASTORS Beasley Sr., Fred Nov-94 Bolen, Sr., James Sep-93 Brock, Reginald Oct-87 Brown-Saffore, Linda F. Oct-17 Cobbin, Deshnell M. Oct-16 Copeland, Garrett Nov-16 Corbin, Raymond Co, Ashley Oct-96 Co, Barry Oct-81 Crawford, Marlan Nov-13 PRE/LATE DeLoatch, Sonya Brown Frey, Nathan Oct-85 Gatson, Aleander Oct-90 Goodman, Victor Oct-96 EXC/ Grizzard, Christopher EXC/ Hammonds, E.C. Oct-00 HILL, Kenneth H. Howard, Anica Oct-16 14

15 ITINERANT ELDERS - PASTORS CHURCH CONF ORD 2017 AC 2016 AC 2015 AC COMMENT Jenkins Sr., Frederick L. Oct-01 Johnson, Ralph Oct-86 Jones, Veronica D Oct-17 EXC/ Kennedy, Babydoll EXC/ EXC Lawson, Dennis D. Nov-94 Lorhorn, Donna Love Jr., Harold M. Oct-99 EXC/LATE Lyle Sr., Anthony Jhruan Oct-16 Norfleet Sr., Jeffrey W. Oct-16 Ogilvie, Sharon Oct-11 Ogilvie, Trenton Oct-02 Payne, Wanda E. Oct-99 PRE/LATE Perkins-Sweat, Benessa Oct-16 Plummer, Jimmie L. Oct-03 EXC Reid Jr., Walter W. Nov-94 Scott, Sherrie Cowley Transfer Sinkfield Sr., W. Antoni Nov-94 Sneed, Eddie Deceased Referred to Committee on Memorials Southall, Joe Jul-77 Story, Rita Strickland, LaVan Oct-95 Thomas, Sr., Anthony Aug-78 Washington, Andre Oct-98 Webster, Randall L. Oct-15 WILLiams, Donald Oct-97 EXC/LATE ITINERANT ELDERS - (Non Pastors) CHURCH CONF ORD 2017 AC 2016 AC 2015 AC COMMENTS Anderson, Daphne R Greater Bethel Oct-13 ABSENT EXC/LATE EXC Baham, Jamie Evette Greater Bethel Oct-16 Broadna, Michael EXC Need to report to a Qtrly Conf Cook Victoria Greater Bethel Sep-96 EXC EXC Curry, Jason Payne Chapel ABSENT/ Curry, Leonard Greater Bethel Dailey-Hunter, Asha Payne Chapel Oct-03 PRE/LATE EXC Debro, Marian Payne Chapel Oct-95 DeLoatch, John St. John- Jun-13 Dennis, Tracy St. Paul- Oct-13 LATE? 15

16 ITINERANT ELDERS - (Non Pastors) CHURCH CONF ORD 2017 AC 2016 AC 2015 AC COMMENTS Dickerson, Eric T. St. Peter- Oct-17 Fulton, Pamela St. Paul- Columbia Oct-97 EXC Gibert, Tonna Kairos Community Gray, Derron Miguel Oct-16 Hughlett, Wanda Ebenezer- Oct-96 PRE/LATE PRE/LATE Kelley, Wanda F. Oct-17 Requested her name be withdrawn from TAC roll/referre d to MEC McGhee, Karen New Salem May-13 Norris, Deter ABSENT ABSMEC ILL Referred to MEC--2nd consecutive absence Orr Sr., WILLis Scott's Chapel Oct-93 EXC/ILL Price Sr., Michael A. Payne Chapel Oct-02 ABSENT PRE/LATE Simmons, Synovia St. John- Oct-02 Smith, WILLiam H. Bethel Chapel Trans to ET Thompson, Edward L. Tisdale, Yvette Lee Chapel Oct-80 ITINERANT DEACONS CHURCH CONF ORD 2017 AC 2016 AC 2015 AC COMMENTS Burton, Leonard Payne Chapel EXC EXC Canty, Vivian (pastor) St. James- Dickson Nov-17 Christon, Diane Denise St. Peter- Oct-17 Green, Angela Greater Bethel Haynes, Lewis A. Kairos Trans to Oct-04 Community KY PRES/EXC Jackson, Kendal Greater Ebenezer EXC Lasco, Gloria Renae St. Paul- Oakwood Oct-11 Lee, Omaràn D. (pastor) Green Chapel Oct-11 Perkins, Candance C Greater Bethel Oct-16 Rainge-Hopkins, Linda St. Paul- (pastor) Columbia Oct-09 16

17 SUPERANNUATED CHURCH CONF ORD 2017 AC 2016 AC 2015 AC COMMENT Allen, Robert Gault St. Luke- EXC/ Barner, Talvin (Supply Pastor) Carter, Patricia Bethel Chapel EXC St. Peter- Clarksville EXC EXC ILL Clay-Joyner, Patrick Ann Payne Chapel EXC EXC ILL Cooper Sr., Freeman M. Greater Bethel Davis, Samuel Lee Chapel EXC Fletcher, Joe Greater Ebenezer PRE/LATE Hardimon, Patti (Supply Pastor) Greater Bethel Jennings Sr., WILLiam Payne Chapel Keesee, Robert E. Lee Chapel Keesee, Ruben Martin Chapel Deceased EXC EXC/ILL Long, Earl St. Peter- Clarksville ABSENT EXC McCandless, Daniel Bethel Chapel EXC PRE/LATE McKissack, James G. St Paul- (Supply Pastor) Columbia McMILLian, George Webb Grove EXC LATE MILLer, Pamela Lee Chapel Smith, Vetrel Superannuate Townsend Sr., Charles Payne Chapel EXC EXC PRE/LATE White, Donald T. Greater Bethel EXC PRE/LATE PRE/LATE WILLiams, Cora Greater (Supply Pastor) Ebenezer EXC Woodard, Paulette Lee Chapel Referred to Committee on Memorials LOCAL ELDERS CHURCH CONF ORD 2017 AC 2016 AC 2015 AC COMMENTS Bates, Virginia Sulpher Springs May-86 EXC Family Couch, Annie May requested Ebenezer- EXC EXC/ILL the TAC measure outreach Eason, Betty Salter's Chapel Oct-90 Frey, LILLian St. Peter- Oct-95 Mallory, Susie St. Paul- Oakwood EXC-HOSP EXC EXC/ILL Odom, Kenneth (supply pastor) New Bethel Oct-17 Ramsey, Marilyn J. Greater Bethel Oct-90 17

18 LOCAL ELDERS CHURCH CONF ORD 2017 AC 2016 AC 2015 AC COMMENTS Seay, Janet St Peter- Scruggs, James (supply pastor) Allen Bethel Webster-Dawson, Selicia Y Jones Chapel Oct-17 WILLiams, Donny Martin's Chapel Oct-17 Wilson, Pauline Greater Ebenezer Jun-05 EXC EXC EXC/ILL Witt Sr., Frankie L. (supply pastor) Mt. Zion Nov-17 LOCAL DEACONS CHURCH CONF ORD 2017 AC 2016 AC 2015 AC COMMENTS Bailey, Cedric (supply pastor) Lee Chapel Oct-16 Dailey, Veronica H. (supply pastor) Payne Chapel Oct-14 Mathers Jr., Jesse L. St. Luke- Gallatin Oct-10 Deceased Poindeter, WILLiam A. Martin's Chapel Oct-08 EXC EXC/ILL Strawther Jr., Albert (supply pastor) Howard Chapel Mar-04 Referred to Committee on Memorials LICENTIATES CHURCH CONF ORD 2017 AC 2016 AC 2015 AC COMMENTS Cummings Jr., Johnny Payne Chapel Davis, Corwin Lee Chapel Handley Jr., Jimmie L. Payne Chapel Hart Jr., Melvin Payne Chapel Lv of absence Stovall, Wesley Warfield, Angellette D Greater Ebenezer St. Paul- Oakwood Bishop added him to roll from WTN TRANSFERS CHURCH CONF ORD 2017 AC 2016 AC 2015 AC COMMENTS Crawford, Barbara St. Luke Itinerant elder from KY Conf Hobson, Everette Salter's Chapel Itinerant elder from KY Conf Hobson, Barbara Salter's Chapel Itinerant elder from KY Conf 18

19 TRANSFERS CHURCH CONF ORD 2017 AC 2016 AC 2015 AC COMMENTS McCoy, Janice Lee Chapel Watkins, Carl E Scotts Chapel Itinerant elder from Central Conf in 7th, referred to MEC Itinerant deacon from IN Conf in 4th, referred to MEC COMPONENT LEADERSHIP CHURCH CONF 2017 AC 2016 AC 2015 AC TN CONF LAY PRESIDENT Eldridge, Bro. Darwin St. Paul-Oakwood TN CONF WMS PRESIDENT Brock, Sis. Gladys St. Matthews- Ecused TN CONF YPD DIR Shelton, Sis. Marita Greater Bethel Ecused/ TN CONF RAYAC PRESIDENT Battle, Bro. Bishaune Greater Bethel TN CONF SONS OF ALLEN PRESIDENT Rev. Jeffrey Norfleet St. Paul-Oakwood TN CONF YPD Cummings, Bro.Darren Ecused Ecused WIM COORDINATOR Rev. Sherri Cowley Scott Martin Chapel TN CONF CDMC COMMISSIONER Ligon-Brown, Sis. Tiffany Lee Chapel Ecused 19

20 150TH SESSION OF THE TENNESSEE ANNUAL CONFERENCE ROLL CALL Annual Conference Delegates 2017 Tennessee Annual Conference District Church Name DELEGATE PRESENT ALTERNATE PRESENT YOUTH PRESENT Payne Chapel AMEC James Floyd Aleis G. Heaston St. John AMEC Margaret Jarrett Naomi Washington Kairos Community AMEC Dr. Gloria Reese EXC Adam Boyd ShaShawn Covington Scotts Chapel AMEC Reginald Sadler Kerry Majors Mia Buntin St. Matthew AMEC Linda Bailey Velma Pennington St. Luke AMEC Shirley Timberlake Mildred Johnson Smith Chapel AMEC William Fuqua St. Luke AMEC Keith Pitts Maine McCray St. Paul AMEC Shirley Wylie Mary Lacy New Salem AMEC JoAnn Millon Alveanie Wilson St. Phillip AME Church Carolyn Snorton Frank Hayes Ebenezer AMEC Josephine Jackson Arnita Shelton St. Peter AMEC William Posey James Keesee St. James AMEC Esther Gardner Roscoe Wilson Green Chapel AMEC Grace Moreland? Wanda McDonald Winters Chapel AMEC Audrey Rhodes EXC/Sat Howard Chapel AMEC Beverly McCadden Ceylonda Lee Mt. Olive AMEC Cynthia Herron Turner Chapel AMEC James King EXC/Fri North District Church Name DELEGATE PRESENT ALTERNATE PRESENT YOUTH PRESENT Lee Chapel AMEC Tracey Bradford St. Peter AMEC Capri Griffey- Elliott Greater Ebenezer AMEC Faye Perkins Burks Chapel AMEC Linda Bell St. Paul AMEC Melissa Eldridge Martin Chapel AMEC Geraldine Keesee Jerome Waller Salter's Chapel AMEC Kris Pearson St. John AMEC Candy Morris St. John AMEC Tenille Chatman St. James AMEC Donna Holt- Pollard Tim Woodward First AMEC Michelle Gordon Ada Pearl Gordon 20

21 Church Name DELEGATE PRESENT ALTERNATE PRESENT YOUTH PRESENT St. James AMEC Laurie Runnells St. Luke AMEC Linda Owens Lydia? McGavock Chapel AMEC Joel Wicks Sulphur Spring AMEC Sherry Washington Mt. Zion AMEC Effie Haynes St. James AMEC Wanda Morris? St. Matthew AMEC Darlene Page St. Paul AMEC James Taylor Moore's Chapel AMEC Cindy Schrag? South District Church Name DELEGATE 2017 AC ALTERNATE 2017 AC YOUTH 2017 AC Greater Bethel AMEC Linda Faye Bentley Ted Washington St. Paul AMEC Tammy Robinson Barbara Frierson Allen Chapel AMEC Phil Sanders Barbara Butler Wayman Chapel AMEC James Caruthers Janet Waire Woodfolk Chapel AMEC Bonita Stewart Dianne Orndorff Bethel AMEC Stephanie Stephanie Bater Morgan-Frye Webb Grove AMEC Marie Butler Emma North Shorter Chapel AMEC Carol Greenlee Lisa Livingston Mullin Chapel AMEC Allie DaShields Jones Chapel AMEC Fannie Wells Angel Wilson Canaan AMEC Ruth Mayes Allen-Bethel AMEC Phillip Hightower Robert L Williams Claiborn Chapel AMEC Jeff Cathey Jennifer Yokley St. Matthew AMEC Will Marsh Terry Henry Hopewell AMEC Inez Beasley Gayle Martin Robert's Chapel AMEC Luther Jones EXC/Fri New Bethel AMEC Cleo Martin? Michael Mitchell Mt. Zion AMEC Frankye Ward EXC/Sat 21