10 principles of servant-leadershiplife, what you will eat, or about your life, or about your body...

“…all that God is doing with us, and through us, and sometimes, in spite of us, here at Centenary!”

AUGUST 2007

The official Newsletter of Centenary United Methodist Church, “The Miracle on McLemore”

In this Issue…Birthdays Page 2

Belief In God Page 2

Music Page 3

Graduates Page 5

Councilor Page 6

Voices of Praise Page 8

Annual Conference Page 9

Men’s Day 0

and much more!

1. ListeningTraditionally, leaders have been

valued for their communication and decision making skills. Servant-leaders must reinforce these important skills by making a deep commitment to listening intently to others. Servant-leaders seek to identify and clarify the will of a group. They seek to listen receptively to what is being and said (and not said). Listening also encompasses getting in touch with one’s inner voice, and seeking to understand what one’s body, spirit, and mind are communicating.2. Empathy

Servant-leaders strive to understand and empathize with others. People need to be accepted and recognized for their special and unique spirit. One must assume the good intentions of members and not reject them as people, even when forced to reject their behavior.3. Healing

Learning to heal is a powerful force for transformation and integration. One of the great strengths of servant-leadership is the potential for healing one’s self and others. In “The Servant as Leader”, Greenleaf writes, “There is something subtle communicated to one who is being served and led if, implicit in the compact between the servant-leader and led is the understanding that the search for wholeness is something that they have.”4. Awareness

General awareness, and especially self-awareness, strengthens the servant-leader. Making a commitment to foster awareness can be scary—one never knows that one may discover! As Greenleaf observed, “Awareness

is not a giver of solace - it’s just the opposite. It disturbed. They are not seekers of solace. They have their own inner security.5. Persuasion

Servant-leaders rely on persuasion, rather than positional authority in making decisions. Servant-leaders seek to convince others, rather than coerce compliance. This particular element offers one of the clearest distinctions between the traditional authoritarian model and that of servant-leadership. The servant-leader is effective at building consensus within groups.6. Conceptualization

Servant-leaders seek to nurture their abilities to “dream great dreams.” The ability to look at a problem (or an organization) from a conceptualizing perspective means that one must think beyond day-to-day realities. Servant-leaders must seek a delicate balance between conceptualization and day-to-day focus.7. Foresight

Foresight is a characteristic that enables servant-leaders to understand lessons from the past, the realities of the present, and the likely consequence of a decision in the future. It is deeply rooted in the intuitive mind.8. Stewardship

Robert Greenleaf’s view of all institutions was one in which CEO’s, staff, directors, and trustees all play significance roles in holding their institutions in trust for the great good of society.9. Commitment to the Growth of People

Servant-leaders believe that people have an intrinsic value beyond their tangible contributions as workers. As such, servant-leaders are deeply

committed to a personal, professional, and spiritual growth of each and every individual within the organization.10. Building Community

Servant-leaders are aware that the shift from local communities to large institutions as the primary shaper of human lives has changed our perceptions and caused a send of loss. Servant-leaders seek to identify a means for building community among those who work within a given institution.

Are you a servant-leader?

Source: http://www.butler.edu/studentlife/hampton/principles.htm

10 Principles of Servant-Leadershipby Larry Spears of the Greenleaf Center

The CenTenarian • aUGUST 2007 • PaGe 2

The Shepherding Ministry

Birthday RecognitionThe Shepherding Ministry believes that birthdays

are very important events in the life of our members. All of our members are sent a birthday card. Member names are listed on the birthday calendar in the Family Life Center.

Each month the birthday calendar will be published in the Centenarian. If your name is not listed please inform Wilhelmina Carter.

—Wilhelmina Carter, Shepherding Ministry

August BirthdaysN. Z Cain 17 E. T. Johnson1 Carla Bynum Thomas Milam2 Judy Lewis 18 Constance Williams4 Norma Strickland 21 Mary Monroe6 Margareta White 22 Zebedee Jones7 Charles Parker 24 Hattye Strong8

David Rivers 26 Maude SartorMaurice King 28 Beverly Green Lamon9

Freddie Caswell Lindsey Parker Bertha Mosley Barbara Walker Kalon Bynum 29 Roy Davis Clyde Pinston Christian Ross

13 Rev. Lynn Harris Milam 30 Stephanie Walker14 Willie Lee 31 Jaylynn Cooper15 Joyce Johnson Robert Fouche16 Ella M. Hewitt Thomas Lamon Dr. Herbert Lester, Jr. Marguerite Mosley

Britinni Norman

Stewardship SundaysEvery 2nd Sunday, Starting in July

If you would like to help contribute to Stewardship Sunday, please call James Haley, II

at 901-619-6999 or e-mail [email protected]

Belief In GodThe Ultimate Answer To Eternal Life

In Hebrews 11:1, it states that “faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.” We need to replenish our hearts with faith. We can accomplish this by remembering that God’s word is the whole truth. Romans 10:17 tells us that faith comes from hearing the message and the message is heard through the word of Christ. We as Christians must put our whole trust in God and never doubt him. He protects us, leads, and guides us with his unconditional love. He knows we are only human, and with this known fact it signifies that the flesh is weak. We must continue to pray for God’s help to carry us to a more meaningful relationship with him.

In Luke 12:22-26 Jesus says don’t worry about your life, what you will eat, or about your life, or about your body or what you will wear. Life is more than food and the body more than clothes. Consider the ravens—they do not sow or reap, they have no store- room or barn, yet God feeds them. And how much more valuable you are than birds! Who of you, by worrying can add a single hour to his life? Since you cannot do this little thing, why do you worry about the rest?

Luke 12:27-28 says, “Consider how the lilies grow. They do not labor or spin, yet I tell you, not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these. If that is how God clothes the Grass of the field, which is here today, and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, how much more will he clothe you, O you of little faith. We must strive to increase our faith, to get a little bit closer to God each and every day.

There is a little poem that I want to share with you that may help you to remember God’s goodness and help you to put your trust in him.

When your heart is feeling faint, and your spirit’s tired and weak When your jaw begins to tighten

and you r nerves are at their peak You can call on Jesus knowing, that your help is in his name

Once you’ve felt his saving power, you will never be the same

Jesus is the wondrous counselor, who will energize your soul Specializing in redemption,

in his love you’ll be made whole Jesus is the guide and teacher, who can ease your every care

When you trust his word, and carry everything to him in prayer.

For your Father knows what you need before you ask him

JUST ASK!—Janis Paxton


Centenary United Methodist Church Music Ministry with Mr. Zebedee Reynolds Jones, Maestro, presented Opus V (The Finale), A Multi-Cultural Christian Experience in Song, on Sunday, June 24, 2007. This dramatic performance of the Negro National Anthem, traditional / contemporary gospel songs, novelty calypso song, traditional spirituals, theme and variations of songs of jubilation, a comparative study of “The Battle Hymn of the Republic”, and an African song displayed faith in action. The concert was also embellished with virtuoso pianist performances, a personal music testimony, a tribute to Lucy E. Campbell, and the Children/Youth Art Exposition displayed in the Myrtle G. Donoho Family Life Center.

Mr. Jones, our Minister of Music, had a vision of a concert grand piano in the sanctuary of our church. “The piano is, with the single exception of the organ, the most complex of all conventional instruments. It has a greater range than any other instrument – usually more than seven octaves, … - and a dynamic range that again, is exceeded only by the organ’s.” (Harvard Dictionary of Music) With Opus IV in 2002 dedicated choir members began the arduous journey of faith in action and hard work to make this vision a reality for our church.

Oh, those rich elements of rhythm and melody of Nationalism set the tone for the concert. Our young pianist, Lindsey Parker, performed an arrangement of Edward H. Grieg’s “Piano Concerto in A Minor” and Dr. Lester extended greetings to our audience and visitors.

Part I. What a beautiful picturesque scenery with the mass choir in its formal concert attire! The concert began with “Lift Every Voice and Sing”, arranged by Roland M. Carter and featuring the virtuoso pianist Mr. Jones, and the voices of faith in action directed by Mrs. Cynthia Haley. Other selections included “O Sing Unto the Lord” and “The Lord Is My Shepherd” featuring Vietta Lewis dramatic soprano soloist.

Part II. What a brilliant performance on the Boston concert grand piano! Dr. Norman Chapman, Associate Professor of Music at Rust College, mesmerized the audience with Frederic Chopin’s “Etude in A-Flat” and “Etude in F-Minor”. “Etude is a piece designed to aid the student of an instrument in developing his mechanical and technical ability. An etude is usually devoted entirely to one of the special problems of instrumental technique, such as scales, arpeggios, octaves, double stops, trills, etc.” (Harvard Dictionary of Music)

Mrs. Eleanor J. Neal, Curator, reminded the audience of the Children/Youth Art Exposition displayed in the Family Life Center. The exhibition included three collections: The Cumby Collection, the Nichols Collection, and the Opus V Collection. We indeed have some talented and gifted young artists.

Part III. What a profound tribute to our African-American heritage and ancestors! “Gossip Gossip” is an original novelty Calypso Song reminding us to practice

Music

the Golden Rule. The traditional spirituals, “Old Time Religion” and “Oh, What A Beautiful City” renewed our faith in action and gave us hope for the eternal future. The soloist included M C Owens, baritone; Patricia Bailey, alto and Robin Mathews, alto.

Part IV. What an enormous monetary contribution from our members and visitors! Through your purchases of ads and the patrons list in our souvenir booklets, we were able to purchase the Boston concert grand piano. We are indeed appreciative to all of our committees for your faith in action and hard work. “Praise God from Whom All Blessings Flow!”

Part V. What an emotional, inspirational testimony and tribute! Mrs. Geraldine Bynum, Directress Emeritus of the Sanctuary Choir, gave a personal testimony of Life-Long Singer’s Expressions (“I’ve Done My Work”). Dr. Lester read a tribute to Lucy E. Campbell—a gospel music composer, director, performer, and Memphis City School teacher. Mr. Jones played the grand piano and spiritually performed one of her compositions.

Part VI. What a light-hearted performance of theme and variations on “When the Saints Go Marching In”, Paige D. Parker, baritone/bass, was the announcer. Probably the most visual scene was Variation 3 – “Hollywood”. We were reminded to enjoy life and the power of love.

The largest accolades were the presentation of red roses individually by Mr. Jones to the members of the Mass Choir. What a beautiful surprise!

Part VII. Finale (A Comparative Study) What a musical lesson about life! The revolutionary composition of “The Battle Hymn of the Republic” arranged by Roy Ringwald and Peter J. Wilhousky were about revolution in our country and our daily Christian lives. The challenge is to keep the faith, continue to obey the Holy Word with hard work, and to march in His truth.

The Mass Choir concluded with “I’ll Meet You in the Morning”, a selection of extreme jubilation. The singers left the choir stand and performed this song with interaction among the members of the audience. The lyrics of the song represent the next stage in our Christian journey. Centenarians, let us continue our performance of Faith in Action with God’s Holy Word.

—Mary Hardy, Sanctuary Choir

The Performance of Faith in Action with Opus V (The Finale)


■ We meet on the 3rd Thursday of each month at 6:00 p.m. and we share breakfast on the 4th Sunday at 8:00 a.m. at Piccadilly’s in the Whitehaven Plaza.

■ We are continuing in our efforts to raise much needed money for the food pantry. If you are a United Methodist man and you have not yet donated your $20-$25 or whatever you are able to donate, please do so immediately. You can give your donation to Darryl Humphrey, Brian Davis, Thomas Lamon, Thomas Milam, Charles Nichols or place it in a church envelope and designate “United Methodist Men - Food Pantry”.

—Darryl Humphrey, UMM President

United Methodist Women’s Membership

Why Not Join A Circle Today?

The Best Things In Life Come With A

Financial Literacy Ministry

The goal of this ministry is to aid Centenarians in becoming better stewards of their financial resources.

In August, we will continue our study of the book, Taking Care of Business: Establishing a Financial Legacy for the African American Family. Lee Jenkins challenges African-American Christians to handle true wealth (as opposed to worldly riches) according to biblical standards. We will meet 2nd and 4th Saturdays at 1:30 p.m. in the W. A. Miller classroom.

If you have any questions or would like to purchase the book on-line, please visit h t t p : / / c e n t e n a r y m e m p h i s . c o m / f l b c . s h t m l or see James Haley, II.

All parents with children 5 1/2 to 12 years old that are interested in being an Acolyte, please call Pearl Crosby Pegues 901-785-0606

Attention CentenariansWe are in need of a full-time paid or volunteer

secretary beginning August 1, 2007. If you are interested, or if you know of someone who is interested , applications and job description will be available in the church office, or you may contact me and I will get this information to you.

Church office number: 774-7604; my number: 744-4052

—Lula F. Carter, S/PRR, Chairperson

Congratulations to Our 2007 Graduates

High SchoolJamahl A. Depriest graduated from Bolton High School in Arlington, TN, on May 26th. He is the son of Mr.

& Mrs. Vincent and Harriet Crump and the big brother of Trey Crump. While a student at Bolton, Jamahl was a member of the men’s varsity basketball team, Campus Life, Business Professionals of America and Fellowship of Christian Athletes. Jamahl was also active in Centenary’s Youth Ministry and regularly served as a capable worship leader on 2nd Sundays. This fall Jamahl will attend Southwestern Junior College in Creston, Iowa, on a basketball scholarship.

Anniese Humphrey graduated from Cordova High School. She is the daughter of Mr. & Mrs. Darryl and Donnita Humphrey and great-granddaughter of Mrs. Lena Fouche. Annise was a member of the National Honor Society and graduated #21 of her senior class. She was active in Centenary’s Youth Ministry, having served as vice-president during the last year. She plans to attend the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga.

Jessica Merriweather graduated from Bartlett High School. She is the daughter of Mr. & Mrs. Bobby and Andrea Merriweather and granddaughter of Mrs. Eleanor Neal. Jessica’s extracurricular activities while a student at Bartlett are well-known here at Centenary. She was an outstanding track star and won numerous titles. Her athletic prowess was highlighted in local and national publications. Jessica would like to get to the Olympics one day and obtain a degree in nursing or veterinary medicine. She has not made a final decision on a college yet.

Ashley Monique Taylor graduated from Mitchell High School. She is the daughter of Sarah Taylor and granddaughter of Mr. & Mrs. Billy and Ermazell Renfro. Ashley was a member of the “Marching Tiger Sound Machine” at Mitchell, where she played trombone. As a result of her musical efforts, she earned two scholarships – one each to The University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff and Mississippi Valley State University. Ashley will attend the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff in the fall and major in Early Childhood or Elementary Education.

Chelsea C. Whatley graduated from Central High School on May 27th . She is the daughter of Cynthia Whatley and granddaughter of Mr. & Mrs. Frank and Vivian Whatley. Here at Centenary Chelsea is a member of the Voices of Praise and was very active in the Youth Ministry, having served as president this year. While at Central, Chelsea participated in a variety of activities. She was captain of both the girls’ cross country team and the Lady Warriors track team. She was also a member of the student council, Mu Alpha Theta, the Teen Improvement Club and was 1st vice-president of the LOR mentoring program. Chelsea was a member of the National Honor Society, Who’s Who Among American High School Students and the National Honor Roll. She received full academic scholarships to Vanderbilt University and The University of Tennessee at Knoxville. She will attend UT-Knoxville in the fall and major in Nursing with a minor in Psychology.

Ainsley Willis graduated from White Station High School. She is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Archie Willis, III and the granddaughter of Mrs. Ann Willis. While at White Station, Ainsley was on the yearbook staff, a member of the chamber choir, Decca, Memphis Challenge, Facing History and Ourselves, Bridge Buliders and senior class secretary. Ainsley plans to attend the University of Tennessee at Knoxville.

CollegeGeoffrey Allan Lewis graduated from the University of Tennessee at Knoxville on May 10th with a Bachelor

of Science degree in Exercise Science. Geoffrey is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Michael and Vietta Lewis, brother of Kyndall Lewis and great nephew of Mr. & Mrs. Macon Stewart. While a student at UT-Knoxville, Geoffrey worked in the UT athletic department with the Lady Vols track and basketball teams as well as the famous UT Vols football team. A very active member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., Geoffrey plans to attend graduate school and work with a major university’s athletic program.

Brandi P. Williams graduated May 12th from Houston Community College in Houston, Texas with a Certificate of Completion in Music Business with a 4.0 G.P. A. Brandi is the daughter of Mrs. Constance Williams; other family members at Centenary include Mrs. Freda Dabney, Mrs. Posie Scott and Mrs. Hazel Hammond. While in college Brandi was on the Dean’s List and was inducted into Phi Theta Kappa International Honor Society. She was also named Most Outstanding Student in Music Business and received the Leadership Award for serving as president of the Music Entertainment Industry Student Association. Brandi’s extracurricular activities included DK Highsteppers, Inc., and twirling. Brandy plans to continue her education at Houston Community College, then transfer to Berry College in Mount Berry, Georgia, to pursue a Bachelor of Arts degree in Music Business.


see GRADS on page 8

The “Councilor”A publication of the Administrative Council of Centenary United Methodist Church

Volume II, Issue #2 – August 2007

Following are updates from, and recent decisions made by, the Administrative Council:

1. At the last Administrative Council meeting on July 9, 2007, it was decided that

the church’s nursery be closed.

Reasoning: There has been low attendance in the church’s nursery for quite some

time. Furthermore, the church has not had much success in finding and retaining

qualified persons to work in the nursery. (Because of our “Safe Sanctuaries”

policy, at least two non-related individuals must serve in the nursery at all times.)

Ideally we would like to have two regular, dependable nursery employees. Until

then, the Staff-Pastor-Relations Committee recommended – and the

Administrative Council decided – that the nursery be closed, effective July 29,

2007, and that it remain closed until all of the following conditions are met:

a. Another worker is hired or a regular volunteer is identified;

b. There are regularly at least five children (ages infant to six years) in

the nursery;

c. A schedule of planned activities for the nursery has been prepared by

the Education Department.

The Administrative Council would like to thank Mrs. Lula Carter, Mrs.

Carolyn Norris and Mrs. Joyce Johnson for regularly volunteering in the

nursery to make sure that our “Safe Sanctuaries” guidelines are met.

2. Mr. Isiah Bailey has expressed interest in starting a mentoring program for

young boys at the church and in the surrounding community. Permission was

granted by the Administrative Council at the July 9, 2007, meeting. (Mr. Bailey

will work along with the Youth Ministry, which has also expressed similar plans.)

3. It was announced at the July meeting that Ms. Felicia Flynn will resign as the

church’s secretary, effective July 31, 2007. If you know of anyone who would

be interested in this position, please contact the church office for details.

4. Resource manual – I’ve mentioned at various charge conferences and

Administrative Council meetings a desire for a handbook about Centenary’s

policies and procedures that could be accessible to all members. At the May 23,

2007, Administrative Council meeting, I presented a draft of this resource manual.

Information will tentatively be arranged in five categories: General; Staff-Pastor-

Parish Relations; Trustees; Finance; and Worship.

Over the next several months, I would like to gather ideas and information that

Centenarians would like to see included in the handbook. I mentioned at the May

meeting that the handbook could be kept in the church office, but several Council

members present suggested that copies should also be made available to church


June was quite a busy month at Centenary! There was a variety of events that appealed to all ages. The Administrative Council would therefore like to thank the following people for coordinating these wonderful activities and commend them for jobs well done!

June 9-10: - Youth Day/WeekendMrs. Sherita Lee and the Youth Ministry

June 16: - Annual United Methodist Men’s PicnicMr. Darryl Humphrey and the United Methodist Men

June 24: - Graduates’ Recognition DayMrs. Ann Willis

June 24: - Children/Youth Art ExtravaganzaMrs. Eleanor Neal

June 24: - Opus VMr. Zebedee Jones, Mrs. Lula Carter, Mrs. Cynthia Haley and the Music Ministry

June 25-29: - Vacation Bible SchoolMs. Dolores Rivers, Mrs. Charlene Parker, Mrs. Billie Hansbrough and the Education Department

Thanks so much for all of your hard work and dedication. Each event was a success because of you!

The “Councilor” Volume II, Issue #2 – August 2007 Page 2

officers. Therefore, I would like to have all information for the handbook by

early-to-mid November. A more definite target date will be set later, but I would

like to allow enough time to assemble the information and ideally have it ready

for distribution – especially to the incoming 2008 officers – at the 2007 All-

Church Conference, which will probably be in late November or early December.

At this point, a basic “no frills” document is being conceived. However, the

format and content of the resource manual will be subject to change as decisions

are made by the Administrative Council and as circumstances dictate. Hopefully

the first “publication” will be a good basis for the future.

Kametris WyattAdministrative Council Chairperson


Ministry Spotlight

Voices of PraiseThe Voices of Praise is one arm of the music ministry here at Centenary. The choir is comprised mostly of young

adults and teens. Musically leading the worship service on 2nd and 4th Sundays and other special occasions, the group’s repertoire spans all genres of sacred music, with specific emphasis on contemporary gospel. Started in 1999, the group comes together weekly for devotion and fellowship, in addition to music rehearsals. The choir, accompanied by ‘The Best Worship Band In The Land”, shares a deep commitment to letting the love of Christ and thankfulness for His grace and mercy show through in our music—we are truly VOICES OF PRAISE!!

New voices are always welcomed. Please see Charles Parker, President, or Cynthia Haley, Director if you would like to join our ministry.

We would like to highlight a ministry/group in the next several newsletters. If you would like to have your ministry/group recognized please call 751-8555.

Master’s Degree

Veronica Burrows graduated from Trinity Theological Seminary in Newburgh, Indiana, on May 19, 2007, with a 3.25 grade point average and a Master of Divinity. While a student at Trinity, Veronica assisted chaplains in the local prison system and worked with both men and women. He future plans include becoming a chaplain at either a hospital or a prison. She also wants to continue to help others in the community and in her church.

Marsha M. Jones will receive her Master of Science in Educational Leadership in July from Christian Brothers University. She is a member of Kappa Delta Pi, an international honor society in education and is an active member of the Beta Epsilon Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. Marsha is currently a 7th grade science teacher at Memphis Academy of Health Science.

Judy Lewis, who is the proud mother of Dominique Stem, graduated June 1, 2007, from Webster University with a Master of Arts Degree in Human Resources Management.

—Kametris Wyatt and Erma P. Williams


GRADS from page 5

The 168th Session of the 2007 Memphis Annual Conference “Changing Hearts Changing Lives: Making Disciples of Jesus Christ”. This

was the theme that set the tone for the 2007 Memphis Annual Conference. The Conference was held June 3-6, 2007, in Jackson, Tennessee at the Carl Perkins Civic Center. Centenarians accompanying Pastor Herbert Lester Jr. to this year’s conference were Dr. Debra Smith, Frances Williams, Lay Delegate, Ann Willis, District UMW’s President, and Lula Carter, Staff / Pastor Parish Relationship Committee (S/PPR) Chairperson.

On Sunday afternoon the first thing on the conference agenda was the annual Clergy and Laity Sessions. The Clergy session was attended by Rev. Lester and Dr. Smith, and the Laity session was attended by me and the other Centenarians. At the Laity meeting Lay Delegates were given a charge that stated “as lay persons we must get involved in all areas of the church; the Clergy can’t do it by themselves. We can’t just sit in the audience with the rest of the congregation”. As I listened to this charge I began to wonder—in reality, all Christians must be lay persons because this is exactly what being a Christian is supposed to be about: “getting involved in all areas of the church” using our talents to help make God’s kingdom a reality here on earth. Kind of, sort of makes you wonder too, doesn’t it? Are we true Christians; are we willing to accept the charge, and get involved in all areas of the church? Just thought I’d ask.

Later that evening the Opening of the 168th Session of the 2007 Memphis Annual conference, and The Service of Ordination of Elders was held. Presiding Bishop, Richard J. Wills Jr., called the Conference to order. The Organization of the Conference, and Setting the Bar of the Conference was done by Conference Secretary, C. Wayne Fesmire. Bishop Wills delivered the opening message. During the message, Bishop Wills stated to the 2007 Conference delegates, that the “Memphis Annual Conference has been doing business for 168 years; now God is about to do a new thing.” Bishop Wills then began his questions to the Ordinands, one question in particular seem to stand out to me, when he asked the Ordinands, “have you had faith; are you going on to do His work”? Former Centenary Associate Pastor Jerome Scales Jr. was one of the Ordinands.

Highlights of this year’s conference events included:

Conference Preacher Bishop James Swanson Sr. Bishop Swanson, who through his sermons, proved himself •to be an awesome man of God; and if Bishop Wills was to ask that same question to Bishop Swanson that he asked the Ordinands I believe the answer would be yes because he certainly appears to be doing “His work”. Bishop Swanson was elected to the episcopacy in July 2004. He was the Pastor of St. Mary’s Road UMC, with a congregation that grew from sixteen active members to a membership of 950, under his leadership, with an average attendance of more than 525. He is a popular preacher, teacher, and leader within the UMC connection. Bishop Swanson’s message reminded us that the Holy Spirit was indeed presence with us. Dr. W. Waite Willis Jr., the brother in law of Bishop Wills, was the Conference Bible Study leader. Dr. Willis •is the Chair of Humanities since 2002, Chair of Religion Department since 1978, and Edward J Pendergrass Professor of Religion since 2001, at Florida Southern College. Dr. Willis is a well known worship and music leader, teacher, and writer. He has also written and published many religious books. As a part of their 100 years of services; The United Methodist Neighborhood Centers of Memphis, Inc. served •cake to all of the conference attendees. Bishop Wills gave his state of the church address.• The Black Methodist for Church Renewal’s (BMCR) Annual Dinner and Service was held at Wesley Chapel •UMC in Jackson; Rev. John Glaze is the Pastor. Rev. Jerome Scales Sr.; Pastor at Burdette Chapel UMC in Memphis, TN delivered the message and Burdette’s Choir rendered the music. The Fixing of the Appointments, done by Bishop Richard J. Wills, Jr.•

There were many issues that had to be addressed, and voted on. However, the established rules of order were followed; motions were made, and seconded. Bishop Wills called for the questions, the voting took place, and the order of business was completed. Bishop Wills recommended that the Jackson District’s invitation to host the 2008 Memphis Annual Conference be accepted, and the vote was unanimous. Bishop Wills told conference attendees that he hoped to see them next year in Jackson, TN. With that said, Bishop Wills adjourned The 168th Session of the 2007 Memphis Annual Conference.

—Submitted by , Frances Williams, Lay Delegate


The Interdenominational Cooperation Fund

United Methodists are a small part of the worldwide Christian church—the living body of Jesus Christ. The Interdenominational Cooperation Fund (ICF) apportionment was established in 1952 to support ecumenical efforts around the world, witness to the Christian faith, foster a renewal of Christian unity and understanding, meet human suffering and advocate for global peace and justice.

Giving to the ICF apportionment nurtures the ministries of Churches Uniting in Christ, the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the USA, the World Council of Churches, the World Methodist council and the Commission on Pan-Methodist Cooperation and Union. Our contributions go a long way in helping in these endeavors.

—Stewardship Committee& UMC.org

Your Apportionments in Action

Renew!

Coming Soon…

Renew!Isaiah 65:17-25

Men’s DaySunday, September 23, 2007 • 3:00 p.m.

Rev. Joel Nichols, Speaker


Stewardship Sunday Nomination Form

Each 2nd Sunday, we would like to recognize a member that generously donates their

time to help do the work of the Church. Please list at least three things this person has

done for Centenary. Please list things that are done on a volunteer basis or that are above

and beyond the expectations for staff.

Your name: _________________________________________________

Nominee: ____________________________________________________

Please give as many examples as possible of how the nominee donates

his or her time and talents to Centenary.

Please submit this form to James Haley, II or Cecelia Patrick. Fax to 901-751-5777.

Men’s DayThe CenTenarian • aUGUST 2007 • PaGe 11

584 e. MclemoreMemphis, Tn 38106

ADDRESS CHANGE REQUESTED

The deadline to submit newsletter articles is the 15th of each month. Information for the newsletter should be e-mailed to: [email protected]. In the subject line please type “Material for the Centenarian.”Information for the newsletter can also be mailed to Erma Williams, 9601 Mourning Dove Cove, Germantown, TN, 38139. Please send your information exactly as it should appear in the newsletter. We reserve the right to edit any content submitted for the newsletter.Current and past issues of the Centenarian can be downloaded from http://CentenaryMemphis.com

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