Re: March 20, 2007 Ministers Conference of Winston-Salem & Vicinity
Rev. Nance, opened devotion with the hymn #329, ‘I Am Thine O Lord’ and
the reading of Matthew 21:12-17. Devotion
was closed with completion of hymn #329 and prayer led by Rev. Bass.
Rev. Nance opened the conference with the call to
order and welcoming the body to this week’s conference and business session in
Dr. Beal’s absence.
Dr.
Serenus Churn provided the morning inspiration reflecting on an impressive
account found in Matthew 21:12-17. Churn tells of how people, upon their
arrival to Jerusalem, would be sure to see that which was the pearl of the
city…the Temple! Jesus marched into the city and doesn’t stop until he ends up
at the Temple. The very night he arrived, he was disturbed. He had gone there
to set the house in order for three reasons noted by Churn. (1) Declare His
ownership; (2) Free His house from corruption; (3) To reminds the people of the
proper usage of the Church.
Churn says that Jesus will clean up corruption so
all will know it is His House! When this happens something marvelous happens.
Churn notes how when Jesus got through, the blind could see and the lame could
walk. None left the way they came. Churn’s emphasis on the work of Jesus
reminded the conference of the importance of the Lenten season.
The March 13th conference were read and accepted with proper corrections.
April 6th
12noon-3pm Seven Last Words @ Zion Memorial.
April 6th
7pm Seven Last Words @ Emmanuel Baptist Church.
April 20, 2007
at 8am the 2nd Annual Golf Tournament will occur.
The body was
reminded of the obligation at Griffith School.
Sick Report
Community
Presentation(s)
Christopher Martin of Hospice informed conference of the
organizations’ attempt to provide various, free services and build relationships
with faith communities. He distributed a survey to each person present to find
if blacks utilize Hospice.
Announcement(s):
Rev. Sanders gave the finance report. The conference voted in favor of having a print out/written report of the information given by Sanders.
Rev. Edwards encouraged all to participate in Golf Tournament and churches become sponsors.
Dr. Churn will bring scholarship forms.
Dr. Eversley informed the conference that contact was made with post 220 veteran’s group. Eversley says this may be a long-term process but we have a powerful voice with their counsel. A motion was made that a letter be drafted to send to city counsel in reference to name Lowrance Joel (see Dr. Eversley).
Dr. Churn informed the conference that we have volunteers listed for the seven last words program to be held April 6th at Zion Memorial.
Rev. Nance announced he is working on an ‘ecumenical outdoor stadium revival service’ and will hopefully invite pastors and ministers of the conference.
The
preaching order of the day was Rev. Willa Reid, assistant minister of Emmanuel
Baptist Church, W-S. Rev. Sanders led the song “Glory To His Name”.
Rev.
Reid spoke from the subject, Wanted: Palm Tree Preachers for the 21st
and 22nd Century with emphasis on Psalm 92. Reid raises the
questioned, “Have you ever wondered how the ad would read if God placed an ad
for preachers in the paper?” She gives examples of some of the possible ways it
might read: Organized, able to mobilize people & gather resource.
Specialize in Christology and theology. Excite members about prosperity. Remain
silent on issues like AIDS and gender…GOD IS A EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER!
Rev. Reid continues with the sentiment that there
are many issues in the world today that must be addressed so what kind of
preacher does God need in the current age? She tells of how the Psalm is for
the Sabbath, a song of praise used as a metaphor to describe the righteous
(those on the Lord’s side). She tells of how palm trees beautified the Temple
and provided fruit. They were also used to heal. Reid asks, so why call us
palm trees?
Rev. Reis says that David reminds us that we are
not called to decorate the pulpit, but to produce fruit. The palm tree has its
roots deep within the ground. When they are seen, many know that there must be
water somewhere. We should be nourishment and restoration. Reid asserts that
people are not seeking what we drive, wear, or look like…they’re looking for
living water! Preachers must have a deep-rooted system rooted in the Word of
God. They must be forever planted and remain in place. Reid tells of the
importance of palm tree preachers preaching the living God.
The
body rose to give Rev. Reid a rousing vote of thanks for her message.
Attendance – 24 persons
Offering - $82.00
Membership
– $20.00
Adjournment (Prayer and Benediction)
Having no further business the conference adjourned with prayer and
benediction.