2010 VBS: PRAISE PARTY @ The Chapel

“2010 VBS: PRAISE PARTY @ THE CHAPEL”

FITZGERALD, GEORGIA – JUNE 19, 2010: Vacation Bible School has traditionally been one of the most effective outreach programs a church can have. Recent studies show that about half the children who come to VBS have no regular church home. It is no wondering that each year, the children look forward to Vacation Bible School @ The Chapel. This past week, the teachers and staff welcomed 75+ young people to a five-day PRAISE PARTY which ended on Friday, June 18th with a Closing Ceremony at 11:00 a.m. “Our VBS was open to everyone in the community who wanted to join with us,” said Sunday School Superintendent Derrick Frazier. “Year after year we see a good number of newcomers and returning VBS kids who remember the good time they enjoyed the year before.”

Children, teachers, staff, and helpers joined together each morning at 8:30 a.m. for a hot breakfast and three hours of bible study, history lessons, drama, arts and craft, music, and other activities. The curriculum was the third segment of a curriculum created by Abingdon Press, an imprint of The United Methodist Publishing House. The series progressed from “Walk It Out” in 2008, to “On the Move” last year, and this year, “Praise Party.” “Praise Party” is a heritage-based Christian education curriculum that had our community celebrating the saving grace of Jesus Christ with head, heart, hands, feet, and SOUL! Through Bible study, crafts, skits, movement, contemporary music, and well-loved hymns and songs of the African-American Church, Praise Party created passionate worship that introduced the young people to actionable faith. Each day there was a SOUL Goal, Memory Verse, Bible Story, song writer feature, and plenty of PRAISE songs.

The members of the VBS leadership team were pleasantly surprised when on the weekend before the first day, there were 63 children pre-registered online using the church’s website. “This annual event is important because it enables our youth to participate in a safe, fun, enriching spiritual environment,” said Charles Coney, Director of Christian Education. “It’s a lot of work, but we look forward to it.” Teachers met after the Sunday Worship service to decorate classrooms, get activities ready, and transform the sanctuary to the traditional hip-hop, high-tech arena geared for high-energy and plenty of movement. In reflection, Coney said, “Music took center stage in this year’s curriculum, so we (Church Director of Music, Annie Pearl Stepherson and I) became more than just Music & Activity Teachers, but consultants to the other teachers providing background on the daily selections. In total, the young people were introduced to three hymns, learned the origins of six gospel songs, and danced to twelve praise songs.”

Holsey Chapel has been offering Vacation Bible School to area children for many decades. “This is a very exciting and dynamic outreach ministry for our church,” the pastor, Rev. Marvin J. Howard said. “It has really become a popular summer destination for children who attend our church as well as those who do not.” Consistent with previous years, “Praise Party” allowed the Bible school students to learn in several interactive ways. Crews of children rotated through four different stations: Hip-Hop Sanctuary for Music & Activity, Bible Study with re-enacted stories from the Scriptures, Heritage & Drama which introduced the children to the historical African-American singers like Thomas Dorsey, Mahalia Jackson, and Lucie Campbell, and Arts & Craft with Rev. Rosia Jackson where they made memorable keepsakes from their VBS adventures. Each day ended with a recap of the focus lesson from the wise storyteller of the village, returning Griot Jim Turner and his assistant Griot Gloria Smith-Cook.

“We want to change lives by building relationships with God, each other and the world.” Coney said, “Relationship is a key product that the church has to offer. The church should build relationships better than anyone else. That’s really why we do it—we want children to learn to embrace the love of God and each other just the way we have.” A group of about 30 teachers and volunteers led the children through the stations. Christian Youth Fellowship Director Alice Blount said, “Many times, leaders ask the kids if they remember what they learned throughout the week, and they do. When it sticks in their brains and we know that we have accomplished our mission.” Children’s Church Director Susie Howard reminded parents during the Closing Ceremony on Friday that this type of learning occurs each Sunday at The Chapel during Children’s Church. The young people begin worship with the adults and leave mid-service for age-appropriate meditations and lessons complimenting what is occurring in the adult service. She commented, “I want to see our children fueled with passion for Jesus. They are never too young to understand the positive difference that He can make in their young lives.”

A featured highlight of the school was Friday’s Closing Ceremony when parents, relatives, and well-wishers were invited to an 11:00 a.m. service. Over forty adults got in the grove and moved to the “Praise Party” reflecting on the five key words of the week: Sacrifice, Celebration, Shalom, Salvation, and Song. They were captivated by the class presentations which included praise dances, singing, recitations, and skits. Each child received a certificate at the closing. Teachers selected their STAR students and the Nutrition Team was once again recognized for providing everyone with a hot breakfast and lunch.

The origins of Vacation Bible School can be traced back to Hopedale, Illinois in 1894. Sunday School teacher D. T. Miles, who also was a public school teacher, felt she was limited by time constraints in teaching the Bible to children. So, she started a daily Bible school to teach children during the summer. The first Bible school enrolled forty students and lasted four weeks.

Holsey Chapel is proud to follow in this legacy and anxiously awaits the 2011 VBS Theme which will be revealed by Cokesbury Publishing on July 1, 2010. Additional information and pictures can be found on our church website at www.cmefitzgerald.org .

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"WORSHIP, GROW, SERVE: Christian Education Day @ The Chapel

FITZGERALD, GEORGIA – APRIL 26, 2010: Holsey Chapel C.M.E. Church celebrated its Annual Christian Education Day using its department theme of “Worship, Grow, Serve.” The service was held on yesterday, April 25th, and began with Sunday School continuing through Morning Worship.

According to Liturgist Michelle Riley Jones of the African American Lectionary, “Christian education has several purposes. One of its purposes is to teach people the principles or commandments of God. This is baseline Christian education work. After people accept God as the head of their lives, they cannot do the will of God unless they know what it is.” Holsey Chapel’s Board of Christian Education includes leaders from local church ministries such as: Sunday School, Bible Study, New Member’s Training, Vacation Bible School, Ministry to Men, Women’s Missionary Society, Children’s Church, Christian Youth Fellowship, and the Young Adult Ministry. The different departments work cohesively to execute the Pastor’s vision of a vibrant, energetic congregation that is poised to make disciples for Christ and support the church being a “Beacon of Hope for the Community.”

“Our ministries and teaching are structured to help people in the spirit of wisdom and revelation as they come to know God,” says Charles L. Coney, Director of Christian Education. “Armed with knowledge of God’s commandments, they can walk in the path designed for them as they prepare to do the will of God. Many may not be fully aware of the widespread reach and impact of Christian education in the life of the church. This is why we celebrate Christian Education Day at The Chapel. Moreover, we utilize the service to highlight the volunteers who bring their skills, talents, and resources in a passion to prepare themselves and the congregation for ministry.”

The Celebration Message was brought by Rev. Rosia Jackson challenging the congregation to witness. Her chosen text was Mark 1:44-45 with an exploration of the cleansed leper spreading the Good News as a model example of our directive from Christ. The inclusion of the Angelic Angels Praise Team and the Children’s Choir was a welcomed testimony of an intergenerational worship that appeals to all. Event planners are hopeful that the Celebration will boost participation in weekly Bible Study, Sunday School classes, and all that the Christian Education Ministry offers to the congregation and community. Additional information and pictures can be found on our church website at www.cmefitzgerald.org .

Chapel Souper Bowl of Caring Benefits Haiti

FITZGERALD, GEORGIA – FEBRUARY 8, 2010: The Chapel Youth participated in a national movement to transform Super Bowl weekend into the nation’s largest youth-led weekend of giving and serving through the Souper Bowl of Caring.

On yesterday, Super Bowl Sunday, they collected donations in large soup pots for a 100% donation to their charity of their choice. By using this weekend as a time to help the hungry and needy, the young people learn about the reality of hunger and tragedy in their own neighborhood and beyond. This event is turning one of the nation’s universal days of celebration and parties into an opportunity to care for those in need.

Souper Bowl of Caring began in 1990 after Brad Smith, a S.C. pastor, led a Super Bowl Sunday prayer—“Lord, as we enjoy the Super Bowl football game, help us be mindful of those who are without a bowl of soup to eat.”—and inspired youth group members to collect money for local hunger-relief charities. Since that time, this simple project has grown into a national movement of congregations, schools, businesses and individuals. Every penny or food item collected goes directly to a charity selected by each participating group.

“For over 20 years, young people have led this national movement of compassion raising more than $60 million for soup kitchens, food banks and other charities,” said Ron Goch, executive director of Souper Bowl of Caring. “Together, we all can make a difference through this effort. I hope everyone will find a way to give and serve.”

Yesterday was not the first time that that the Chapel youth engaged the church in the celebration. Last year, they participated in a service project with the Fitzgerald Community Club, donated food items to the Christian Kitchen, and raised $300 for the Monitor Enrichment Program. “Our youth look forward to this event because it gives them a chance to apply the lessons of giving they are learning in bible study and Sunday school,” says Alice Blount, Christian Youth Director. “We are so proud to see them energized and working together for this cause—last year, we were the highest contributing C.M.E. Church across the nation.” The young people have chosen the Haitian Relief effort as their 2010 charity of choice and are thankful for everyone who gave generously following the services. They are partnering with the CME Tenth Episcopal District for distribution. Given the devastation and great need in Haiti, they will be extending the Souper Bowl Project to the end of February. So far, the youth have collected almost $300. If anyone wants to donate, please contact the church at (229) 423-7785 or be ready to place donations in the soup pots following each service.

[3/1/2010 Update: Holsey Chapel CYFer's collected and reported $500. Thus, making them the third highest CME church contributor in the connection.]

At the conclusion, contributions and experiences will be reported to the national organization. The reporting process provides participating groups the opportunity to monitor the success of their efforts and the collective efforts of youth across the country. Results are shared in real time at www.souperbowl.org. “Youth everywhere are demonstrating how small efforts can make a huge impact in the fight against hunger and poverty,” exclaimed Rev. Brad Smith, Founder and Executive Director of the Souper Bowl of Caring. “We applaud everyone who has signed up to use the Souper Bowl of Caring to step outside of themselves and share God’s love with their neighbors in need.”

Souper Bowl of Caring is at work through church youth groups and schools, as well as a variety of service organizations and it is endorsed by seven NFL owners. In 2009, more than 13,500 organizations collected $10.4 million through the Souper Bowl of Caring. For more information or to find more local, participating groups, visit www.souperbowl.org or the Holsey Chapel website at www.cmefitzgerald.org .

Mrs. Glendora P. Ryce Funeral Announcement

January 18, 2010

Dear Connectional Members and Friends,

The South Georgia Region extends sympathies to the family of Mrs. Glendora P. Ryce who died Friday, Jan. 15, 2010, at her residence. Growing up in the city of St. Louis, her mother noticed her compassion for others to learn. Thus, it was destined for her to fulfill her calling as a teacher. She was an exemplary educator and humanitarian in the public sector and a celebrated Christian Educator. A keen communicator and compassionate individual, she was heavily involved with youth and adult community programs and will be sorely missed by friends and family. Her husband the Reverend Amos Ryce II, trail-blazing C.M.E. preacher and tenured pastor of the Everette Temple C.M.E. Church in Tifton, Georgia, preceded her in death. Additional details available on the District Website (www.cmesixthmmb.org).

Homegoing Services:
Saturday, January 23, 2010, 11:00 a.m.
Her body will lie in state from 10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.
Williams Tabernacle C.M.E. Church
316 3rd Street NW - Moultrie, GA 31768 - (229) 985-2309
Bishop Othal Hawthorne Lakey, Eulogist & Sixth Episcopal District Presiding Prelate
The Rev. Robert L. Yarbrough, Presiding Elder
The Rev. Connie Scott, Pastor

Interment:
Pinecrest Memorial Gardens

Funeral Arrangements are entrusted to:
Luke Strong & Son Mortuary
20 1st Street Northeast - Moultrie, GA 31768-3939 - (229) 890-1717
www.lukestrongandson.com

Lodging for Out of Town Guests:
Econo Lodge
1300 North Veterans Parkway - Moultrie, GA 31788 - (229) 890-8652
www.econolodge.com
Ryce Homegoing Bereavement Rate: $53.99 + tax

++++++++++++++++++

In His Service,
Rev. Robert L. Yarbrough
Presiding Elder, Moultrie-McRae-Brunswick District

Sunday School Teacher Apprciation @ The Chapel

FITZGERALD, GEORGIA – OCTOBER 30, 2009: In the midst of a Purple & Gold Community Service, Holsey Chapel C.M.E. Church paused to focus on its educational ministry. Since the arrival of its pastor, Rev. Dr. Marvin J. Howard, Sr., there has been a substantial increase in Sunday School participation. It should be noted that Dr. Howard professionally is a middle school principal and his wife a high performing classroom instructor. Together, they have almost 60 years of educational experience and expertise. It is no wonder that this talent is evidenced in their ministry.

Since 1780 when the first Sunday School met, millions of children, youth and adults have learned how God’s Word truly makes a difference in their lives! Teachers involved in Sunday School can never receive too much encouragement and appreciation for this invaluable ministry. This is why, Holsey Chapel joined the national campaign launched by Gospel Light with the goal of honoring the 15 million Sunday School teachers nationwide who dedicate themselves to teaching the Word of God to children, youth and adults. Across America, churches are invited to set aside a Sunday in October as a day to honor Sunday School teachers for their dedication, hard work and life-changing impact on their students. By celebrating Sunday School, we demonstrate in meaningful ways that our church places a high value on this ministry. The focus moment recognizes the life-changing work of Sunday School teachers, the unsung heroes of the faith.

On October 25th, Sunday School attendance was at fifty-two persons. Just two years ago, the average attendance was less than ten persons. It is no wonder that the church members recognized the Sunday School Leaders. Sunday School Superintendent Derrick Frazier arrives early to make sure that all needs are meet and that the learning environments are welcoming to the participants. Charles Coney is the Director of Christian Education and he is responsible for the overall structure and ministry support. He is regarded as an innovative leader in Christian education ministry and a renowned workshop facilitator and guest speaker on the national circuit. Everyone knows that the heart of the classroom is the teacher. The Holsey Chapel ministry has age-appropriate instruction being given by the following teachers: Roosevelt Freeman (Adult Men); Zeola McGill (Adult Women); Jim Turner (New Members); Charles Coney (High School); Alice Blount (Middle School); Susie Howard (Elementary); and Derrick Frazier (Primary). In compliment, Rev. Rosia Jackson and Sally Wilcox serve as substitute teachers. In addition to being pastor, Rev. Howard, also serves as a substitute and guest teacher.
Sunday School perfect attendance is encouraged with monthly certificates and each fifth Sunday is Sunday School Appreciation Day where the Superintendent and Christian Education Director cook breakfast and serve the students for a combined lesson on Christian Methodist history taught by local historian and life-time C.M.E. member Jim Turner. Experiencing Sunday School at “The Chapel” is a chance to sing familiar songs and learned some new ones; make crafts, projects and art pieces; interpreted Bible passages through plays, games, and activities; laugh, play, study, laugh, talk—and maybe laugh some more; explore what it means to be a child of God and demonstrate Jesus’ love for others. Our dedicated team of teachers works to show God’s love to our children and adults, opening the many riches in God’s Word, and make them SMILE every Sunday morning!

Additional information and pictures can be found on our church website at www.cmefitzgerald.org .

VBS Moves from Place to Place in God's Grace

Holsey Chapel C.M.E. Church welcomed 70+ children each morning as the church hosted its annual Vacation Bible School June 27 - July 3. “Our VBS was open to everyone in the community who wanted to join with us,” said Sunday School Superintendent Derrick Frazier. “Year after year we see a good number of newcomers and returning VBS kids who remember the good time they enjoyed the year before.”

Children, teachers, staff, and helpers joined together each morning at 8:30 a.m. for a hot breakfast and three hours of bible study, history lessons, drama, arts and craft, music, and other activities. The curriculum focused on how God’s spirit gave momentum to the Civil Rights Movement in different places, drawing the people of God toward greatness through blessing, justice, truth, and reconciliation. The lessons promoted God’s power for life in building up the community, as persons are reconciled to one another and to Jesus Christ. “On the Move” Vacation Bible School featured activity centers that catered to all different learning styles through contemporary Christian hip hop music, daily Bible stories, multicultural heritage lessons, theme-related crafts, snacks, movement, and more. In the spirit of “going green”, registration was done online using the church’s website and a partnership with Cokesbury Publishing House. Additionally, the Arts & Craft teacher, Rev. Rosia Jackson used recycled items as she supported the curriculum with hands-on projects.

Holsey Chapel has been offering Vacation Bible School to area children for many decades. “This is a very exciting and dynamic outreach ministry for our church,” the pastor, Rev. Marvin J. Howard said. “It has really become a popular summer destination for children who attend our church as well as those who do not.” This year’s program allowed for the Bible school students to learn in several interactive ways. Crews of children rotated through four different stations: Hip-Hop Sanctuary for Music & Activity, Bible Study with re-enacted stories from the Scriptures, Heritage & Drama which introduced the children to the principles of the Civil Rights Movement, and Arts & Craft where they made memorable keepsakes from their VBS adventures. Each day ended with a recap of the focus lesson from the wise storyteller of the village, returning Griot Jim Turner.

“The goal of the activity centers was to get the children to understand that God loves them and that He is with them as he was for others in the past (biblical and contemporary),” said Director of Christian Education Charles Coney. “That’s really why we do it—we want children to learn to embrace the love of God just the way we have.” A group of about 20 teachers and volunteers led the children through the stations. “Biblical literacy is declining in our culture,” he said. “We want the rich examples of God’s love to become real and relevant to this millennium generation. From the courage of Deborah, to the work ethic of Joseph, if children hear these stories again and again, they can retain them and recognize them later on.” Christian Youth Fellowship Director Alice Blount said, “Many times, leaders ask the kids if they remember what they learned throughout the week, and they do. When it sticks in their brains and we know that we have accomplished our mission.” Children’s Church Director Susie Howard recently joined the Christian Education Team when her husband was assigned pastor last year. A high-performing educator, she has helped with several Vacation Bible Schools and comments, “I like seeing the kids challenged and through the week, they see how the life lessons we teach are applicable to their daily situations. They get a good experience and showcase all their talents in a positive structured environment.” Howard said, “Besides seeing Mr. Turner ‘look like an African storyteller’ with his kente garb, the major reward of the week is sharing God’s love with the kids. I enjoy seeing them active and excited about being able to share the love of God in a really fun, active way.”

A featured highlight of the school was Friday’s Closing Ceremony when parents, relatives, and well-wishers were invited to an 11:00 a.m. service. Over thirty adults “got on the bus” to visit the historical sites of the Civil Rights Movement and to reflect on the five key words of the week: Justice, Greatness, Blessing, Truth, and Reconciliation. They were captivated by the class presentations which included praise dances, singing, recitations, and skits. Each child received a certificate and 73% had special recognition for five days of perfect attendance. Teachers selected their STAR students and the Kitchen Team was awarded STAR medals for providing everyone with a hot breakfast and lunch.

The origins of Vacation Bible School can be traced back to Hopedale, Illinois in 1894. Sunday School teacher D. T. Miles, who also was a public school teacher, felt she was limited by time constraints in teaching the Bible to children. So, she started a daily Bible school to teach children during the summer. The first Bible school enrolled forty students and lasted four weeks.
Holsey Chapel is proud to follow in this legacy and looks forward to 2010Vacation Bible School Theme, “Praise Party: Worship God with Head, Heart, Hands, Feel, and SOUL!” Additional information and pictures can be found on our church website at www.cmefitzgerald.org .

National Children's Day Celebration @ The Chapel

Five weeks from Mother’s Day is “Children’s Day” (June 14, 2009—the second Sunday in June). Many individuals, groups, and churches, are trying to bring attention to this special day for children that predates both Mother’s and Father’s Day. Holsey Chapel C.M.E. Church joined the national planning committee by leading the local community in this noteworthy occasion. The day’s events included Sunday School, Morning Worship Celebration, and a Cupcake Reception. Rev. James Davis, pastor of Bronwood A.M.E. Church, was the Guest Speaker giving a powerful testimony of “God Never Leaving Us Alone.” Mayor Gerald Thompson prepared a proclamation for the children announcing “Children’s Day” in the City of Fitzgerald. He urged the entire community to come to together to participate in giving faith, hope, love, and commitment to our children. In his absence, City Councilman John K. Fletcher presented the document to Pastor Howard and Ms. Susie Howard, Children’s Church Coordinator.
John Ross, advocate for Children’s Day and part of a growing movement spearheaded by the website www.nationalchildrensday.us, notes the importance of and need for the day. “Children are just as in need of a special day as are fathers and mothers. Many children are being left behind and left out of the American discourse today. Currently about nine million children are without health insurance. Some of our rural and urban schools are graduating fewer than 50 percent of their students. Our children are behind in math and science. Americans are the most imprisoned population in the world… our children need more moral and spiritual guidance than ever. They are calling out to the adults of this great land for a new commitment and a new future. America needs Children’s Day!”
Pastor Howard notes about the day, “Jesus had disciples who dismissed children as being not significant. But He affirmed them. So Children’s Day is our day set to encourage our children. Many individuals, churches, and groups are already doing this. And following the paths of pioneers like Mrs. Otha Pettigrew, we at The Chapel celebrate our children as gifts from God .”
Children’s Day observations in the United States date from the 1860s and earlier. The Methodist Episcopal Church at the Methodist Conference of 1868 recommended that the second Sunday in June be observed annually as Children’s Day. The national website supporting the revival of Children’s Day on the second Sunday in June, is stressing this day as a day of celebration and commitment to children by parents and other individuals. The Children’s Day website offers help and challenges parents, individuals, churches/houses of worship, schools/places of education, government/community and businesses to sign commitment cards directed at affirming America’s children. They pledge to “commit in the coming year, to love, cherish, nurture (physical, mental, emotional, & spiritual needs), and affirm...” They can also make a commitment beyond America to the world’s children. Numerous churches and denominations now observe the second Sunday in June including the African & Christian Methodist Episcopal Churches, African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church, and the Church of the Nazarene. Yes, this is the time to promote Children’s Day all across America!
More information is available on the Holsey Chapel website, www.cmefitzgerald.org .
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Maundy Thursday Fellowship with Central UMC

Central United Methodist Church Pastor Rev. Keith Goodlett and Holsey Chapel Pastor Rev. Marvin Howard share memories following the Annual Maundy Thursday Communion Service held on Thursday, April 9th at 7:00 p.m. The fellowship between the two churches has remained constant and allows the congregations and choirs to unite in the Christian Faith under the Methodist umbrella. The 2009 service was held at Central United Methodist with Rev. Howard bringing the inspirational message. The choirs united to offer support for the hymns, "Were You There" and "O Love Divine, What Hast Thou Done." Holsey Chapel Director of Music Annie Pearl Stepherson provided a solo, "Let Us Break Bread Together", during the Communion Service. Next year's fellowship will be held at Holsey Chapel with Rev. Goodlett bringing the message.

VBS "On The Move"

Holsey Chapel Announces its 2009 Vacation Bible School--On the Move is a unique heritage-based, multicultural, Christian educational resource that is perfect for Vacation Bible School! The curriculum focuses on how God’s spirit gave momentum to the Civil Rights Movement in different places, drawing the people of God toward greatness through blessing, justice, truth, and reconciliation. The lessons promote God’s power for life in building up the community, as persons are reconciled to one another and to Jesus Christ. On the Move Vacation Bible School 2009 features VBS activity centers that cater to all different learning styles through contemporary Christian hip hop music, daily Bible stories, multicultural heritage lessons, theme-related crafts, snacks, movement, and more. Our Vacation Bible School will be held on June 29 - July 3, 2009. More details available at www.cmefitzgerald.org .

Holsey Chapel Attends Spring Convocation

The Columbus Convention & Market Center, 801 Front Street, Columbus, Georgia was the site for the Annual spring Convocation of the Sixth Episcopal District of the Christian Methodist Episcopal Church. Under the theme, "From Good to Great--Cherishing our Heritage" the annual confab brought together several hundred pastors, Presiding Elders, Regional officers, and lay men and women from throughout the State of Georgia for two days of worship, teaching, and fellowship. Bishop Othal Hawthorne Lakey, Presiding Bishop of the Sixth Episcopal District was in charge. The Convocation was officially hosted by the Holsey Monumental C.M.E. Church of Columbus, Reverend Marquis Hardrick, Pastor. Reverend Jesse A. Averette, Jr., was the Hosting Presiding Elder.

The main educational feature was a symposium on managing conflict within the church. This symposium was facilitated by Dr. Elfreda A. Lakey, with one of the focus groups led by Sixth Episcopal District Ministry to Men Coordinator and Holsey Chapel Lay Leader Jim Turner. Another feature was "Excursions into the Heritage of Negro Spirituals" entitled "Stealing Away to Jesus" facilitated by Holsey Chapel Director of Christian Education Charles Coney. One of the Preachers for the Convocation was the Holsey Chapel Pastor, Reverend Dr. Marvin J. Howard, Sr.

excerpt from "The Sixth Epistle" Volume XVI No. 1 - Offical Publication of the Sixth Episcopal District

SED "One In The Spirit" Banquet

Dr. Maurice C. Daniels, Professor and Dean of the School of Social Work at the University of Georgia in Athens was the featured speaker at the Annual "One In The Spirit" Banquet held Friday evening, April 3rd, during the Spring Convocation of the Sixth Episcopal District of the Christian Methodist Episcopal Church in Columbus, Georgia.

He formerly served as Associate Dean and director of the MSW Program in the School of Social Work and as Assistant to the Dean in the Graduate School. Daniels holds a bachelor's degree in Psychology, a Master's degree in Social Work, and a Doctoral degree in High Education from Indiana University.

Dr. Daniels is the author of the book titled Horace T. Ward: Desegregation of the University of Georgia, Civil Rights Advoacy, and Jurisprudence. He is also the senior researcher and executive producer of Foot Soldier for Equal Justice, Parts I and II (FESJ), two award-winning public television documentaries. Daniels is also founder and director of the Foot Soldier Project for Civil Rights Studies, a partnership with UGA's Russell Library for Research and Political Studies to chronicle the civil rights movement in Georgia.

The "One in the Spirit" Banquet was established several years ago by the Presiding Bishop, Othal Hawthorne Lakey. Its purpose is to raise funds for an endowment to support the Episcopal District programs of education and church expansion and improvement. It is held in conjunction with the Annual Spring Convocation of the Sixth Episcopal District which brings together several hundred ministers and lay members of the C.M.E. Church from across the state of Georgia for two days of worship, Christian nurture, program planning, and fellowship. The Sixth Episcopal District is one of ten geographical divisions of the C.M.E. Church consisting of four regions covering the entire state of Georgia.

excerpt from "The Sixth Epistle" Volume XVI No. 1 - Offical Publication of the Sixth Episcopal District

JROTC Appreciation Service

The Mayor Gerald Thompson proclaimed JROTC Day to be on March 29th in Fitzgerald, Georgia. In celebration, the Holsey Chapel Christian Methodist Episcopal Church honored the cadets by having a JROTC Appreciation Service, which was held on Sunday, March 29, 2009. As the congregation sang praises, the JROTC color guard presented the colors and led Pastor Marvin Howard Sr., the JROTC Instructors, and the JROTC speakers to the pulpit. Cadet Captain Emily Dunston, Cadet Corporal Heather Hawes, Cadet First Sergeant Angel Wright, and Captain Johnny McElroy gave emotional messages about being faithful leaders.

The Holsey Chapel Church family showed their appreciation to the JROTC cadets by presenting each cadet a certificate recognizing their demonstrated citizenship, civic responsibility, and military orientation. They also awarded the four speakers a Public Speaking Certificate. The cadets presented a bouquet of flowers to the JROTC Secretary Mrs. Queenie Gear, and plaques to Master Sergeant Damon Carver and First Sergeant Kenneth Rosier.

Pastor Marvin Howard Sr. preached a strong sermon entitled “A Good Soldier” challenging the JROTC cadets and church members to never give up and be strong faithful leaders. At the end of the service, Holsey Chapel Youth Cadet Brandon Smith was promoted to Cadet Captain. Additionally, Cadet Captains Emily Dunston and Jarod McGirt were promoted to Cadet Majors.
The Senior Army Instructor First Sergeant Kenneth Rosier and Master Sergeant Damon Carver would like to give a special thanks to the parents and grand parents who came and supported our cadets. From the Fitzgerald High School Leadership, we thank Mr. Isom Harmon, Assistant Principal and from the Ben Hill County School Board of Education Mr. Charles Coney, Chief Administrative Officer.

JROTC is a continuing success story. From a modest beginning of 6 units in 1916, JROTC has expanded to 1,645 schools today and to every state in the nation and American schools overseas. Cadet enrollment has grown to 281,000 cadets with 4,000 professional instructors in the classrooms. Comprised solely of active duty Army retirees, the JROTC instructors serve as mentors developing the outstanding young citizens of our country.

More information is available on the Holsey Chapel website, www.cmefitzgerald.org .

"Academy of Excellence" Charter School

To the community of Fitzgerald and Ben Hill County. We, the Holsey Chapel Academy of Excellence invite you to come out and hear different professionals, educators, parents, and students speak and answer questions about the petitioned charter school in Ben Hill County. We believe that it is time for a new adventure in our city.

Charter schools are public schools (not private or church schools) funded with public tax dollars. States grant charter schools the right to operate with greater independence and flexibility than most public schools in exchange for assuming greater responsibility for student achievement. Charter schools agree to meet certain educational achievement goals within a fixed period of time. These goals and timeframes become part of the written "charter" that is created when a proposal for a new school is approved. The Academy of Excellence is developing the charter at present. We are soliciting your feedback as we attempt to meet the community’s need.
Admission to the Academy of Excellence will be open to all. Contrary to a popular belief, charter schools cannot "select out" the best and brightest; nor are they "alternative schools" with students assigned from the traditional school. They are an option for parents seeking a different educational track for their children. Typically, each charter school emphasizes a particular theme or approach, and works with a specific range of ages or grades. We have petitioned the Georgia Department of Education and the Ben Hill County Board of Education to address the needs of kindergarten through eighth grade (K - 8).

Charter schools are new, innovative public schools that are accountable for student results. They are designed to deliver programs tailored to educational excellence and the needs of the communities they serve. Charter schools are one of the fastest and most successful growing reforms in the country. The first charter school opened its doors in St. Paul, Minnesota in 1992 and now, a decade and a half later, more than 4,500 charter schools are serving over 1.3 million children across 40 states and the District of Columbia. Based on the belief that America’s public schools should meet standards of excellence and be held accountable, parents are lining up to choose these innovative public schools that are able to meet the individual needs of their children. Our President Barack Obama ran his campaign on a platform that supported charter schools. In his words, "we will double funding for the Federal Charter School Program to support the creation of more successful charter schools."

The Holsey Chapel Academy of Excellence will operate on three basic principles: (1) CHOICE: We plan to give families an opportunity to pick the best environment most suitable for their child’s educational well-being. Our teachers will create and work at directly shaping the best working and learning environment for their students and themselves. We are hopeful that the Ben Hill County Board of Education will authorize our school to best serve the specific needs of the students in a our community. (2) ACCOUNTABILITY: The Academy will be judged on how well it meets the student achievement goals established by our charter contract. We will show that we can perform according to operational standards as defined by the Ben Hill County Board of Education. (3) FREEDOM: While charter schools must adhere to the same major laws and regulations as all other public schools, they are freed from the red tape that often diverts a school’s energy and resources away from educational excellence. Instead of constantly jumping through procedural hoops, charter school leaders can focus on setting and reaching high academic standards for their students. Some charter school programs focus on the basics, reading, writing and the traditional school subjects that some children struggle with. Other schools have special arts or music programs. Some charters look just like other public schools. There can be dropout prevention programs, adult education programs, charters that serve Head Start and day care needs, or charters that work with children who want to go to college.

As a charter school in Ben Hill County, we want to empower each child to become the best that he or she can be. We believe that a child is not a vessel to be filled, but a lamp to be lit. In support, we will commit to the personal success of each child that walks through our doors. If you will like to hear more, please meet us on Saturday, March 7th at 4:00 p.m. at the Monitor Community Center. Join the challenge towards a better educational future for the children of Ben Hill County. Yes, We Can!

More information is available on the Holsey Chapel website, www.cmefitzgerald.org .

Mrs. Elizabeth Graham - Missionary Love Award Recipient

Members and others from the community came together at Holsey Chapel C.M.E. Church for the Annual Women in Red Celebration. This event was sponsored by the Women’s Missionary Society and focused on the religious contributions and realities of women. The 2009 Theme was "The Awesome P’s" as communicated by four guest speakers. They were PRAYER by Minister Lynnice Graham of Lithonia, Georgia; PERSERVERANCE by Mrs. Brenda Calloway of Fitzgerald, Ga.; POWER by Mrs. Catina Lumpkin of Brunswick, Ga.; and PRAISE by Mrs. Ola McClain of Fitzgerald, Ga. Music was provided by The Ensemblettes and The Women’s Chorale. As a special treat, The Angelic Angels Praise Team astounded the audience with their rendition of "Order My Steps." This was a perfect transition to the announcement of the recipient of the First Annual Missionary Love Award, Mrs. Elizabeth Graham. Amidst standing ovations, flowers, and a plaque, this quiet figure of grace and elegance, came down front to humbly receive appreciation for her impact to the church and community.

Mrs. Elizabeth Graham (affectionally known as Aunt Nibby) who was born in Ben Hill County on March 1, 1914. Her parents were Mr. Willie & Georgia Ann Coffee. She had two brothers and two sisters. One sister, Julia Hunter, is 101 years of age. She attended Joy Chapel C.M.E. Church school in Ben Hill County. This was one of the oldest black church schools in the county. Later, she attended and graduated from Queensland High School. She married Marion Graham in 1933. She raised her nephew Clifford (Chip) Martin as her own child. Mrs. Graham lived in Florida and Los Angeles, California for many years. After coming back home, she attended Queensland Chapel C.M.E. Church and later united with us here at The Chapel. She is a very dedicated member of the Ben Hill County Senior Citizens and takes great delight in this. After joining Holsey Chapel, she served on the Stewardess Board and the Missionary Society. We are blessed to have this young lady who serves as an inspiration to us. We hope that we are blessed to be as strong, fashionably dressed, and high stepping as Mrs. Graham when we are her age.

More pictures and information is available on the Holsey Chapel website, www.cmefitzgerald.org .

"Lessons of Service for Holsey Chapel Youth"

All around the world during this time of global concern, youth are rising to meet the needs of their community and working to strengthen the development of their countries through volunteer service. Millions of these young people also planned service projects and celebration events during the Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday, President Obama Inauguration, and Super Bowl Sunday. The Youth at Holsey Chapel C.M.E. Church have rallied and are seeking to offer contributions to the development of our community through voluntary service.
At the beginning of the year, the Christian Youth Fellowship (CYF) at the church met to plan their activities for the next months. High on the list was service as a compliment to the lessons of leadership they were learning. During the previous months, the youth were engaged in a series outlined in the text, Everyday Leadership: Attitudes and Actions for Respect and Success, a guidebook for teens. This resource was part of a programmatic thrust by the Connectional Director of Christian Education, Dr. Carmichael Crutchfield in Memphis, Tenn. Two events became key for service projects: Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday and Super Bowl Sunday. As such, the youth with the assistance of their directors, Alice Blount and Sally Wilcox tracked a plan towards Super Bowl Sunday.

During his lifetime, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. sought to forge common ground on which people from all walks of life could join together as equals to address important community issues. Service, he realized, was the great equalizer. As he oncesaid, "Everybody can be great,
because everybody can serve." The holiday was a "day on, not a day off" for the group. The young people assisted with the Annual Community Feast sponsored by the Fitzgerald Community Club as their service project. The Fitzgerald Community Club hosted the Martin Luther King Celebration beginning Saturday, January 17th. As part of Souper Bowl Sunday, the youth collected donations through the congregation each Sunday towards a full 100% donation to a local charity of their choice. Unanimously, theyelected to make the Monitor Enrichment Program their charity. As a culmination, on February 1st, they proudly presented to the Executive Director of the Monitor Enrichment Program, Iris Vanessa Melton a check for $300. An enlarged check was created which was signed by each CYF member as a hallmark of their accomplishment. Pastor Rev. Marvin Howard remarks, "We are proud of our youth and the difference they are making in our community on a daily basis. Our future lies in the tremendous energy, enthusiasm, and commitment of these young people. I have often said that every individual counts, every individual has a role to play, and every individual makes a difference. The recent actions of our youth proves it. We celebrate the indomitable spirit of these youth."
Further, the Director of Christian Education Charles Coney comments, "These events have been a catalyst for helping our youth mobilize a new generation of young leaders. We also know from research that young people involved in volunteer service do better in school, and are more likely to vote, volunteer and give philanthropically as adults. Likewise, they are also 50% less likely to get involved in drug and alcohol abuse, and teen delinquency. Youth service is one of the most effective youth development methodologies."
The fine works of these youth people are document on the National Martin Luther King, Jr. Day of Service website www.my.mlkday.gov/s/cmefitzgerald/index.aspx and on the Holsey Chapel website, www.cmefitzgerald.org .

"A New Birth of Freedom"

President Obama pledges open foreign policy and encourages America to 'dust ourselves off' and rebuild the economy. On the steps of the nation's Capitol, just a short distance from where Martin Luther King, Jr. delivered his "I Have a Dream" speech, using the same bible Abraham Lincoln did for his inauguration, with the country in dire conditions similar to when FDR took office, Barack Obama was officially sworn in as the 44th president of the United States of America on in Tuesday afternoon (January 20).

The moment crystallized the former U.S. senator's historic rise to become the first African-American to hold the country's highest office. Just over four years ago, Obama introduced himself to the nation with his keynote address at the 2004 Democratic National Convention in Boston. His oratory skill wowed the audience then and continued to do so throughout his two-year campaign for the presidency. Click here for a transcript of his speech.

Following his speech, Elizabeth Alexander gave the inaugural poem. Alexander had the toughest time slot of the morning. She had to follow Obama's inspirational speech with her ode to the inauguration. Tough to hold onto an audience that had waited hours in the cold. But her words were equally inspiring, invoking images worthy of a Rockwell painting. I particularly liked this portion: "Praise song for struggle; praise song for the day. Praise song for every hand-lettered sign; The figuring it out at kitchen tables." Click here for a transcript of the poem.

A short time ago, Barack Obama was sworn in as the 44th president of the United States and his new administration officially came to life. One of the first changes is the White House's new website, which will serve as a place for the President and his administration to connect with the rest of the nation and the world. Millions of Americans have powered President Obama's journey to the White House, many taking advantage of the internet to play a role in shaping our country's future. WhiteHouse.gov is just the beginning of the new administration's efforts to expand and deepen this online engagement. WhiteHouse.gov and the rest of the Administration's online programs will put citizens first.

Obama raises hand, lifts a nation

Barack Obama was sworn in as the 44th president of the United States at 12:05 p.m. Tuesday. President Obama was sworn in by Chief Justice John Roberts. Moments earlier, Joe Biden took the oath as Vice President. An estimated 2 million people have gathered in Washington to watch the event. www.cnn.com

President-elect Obama Greeted at the White House

President-elect Barack Obama is at the White House on Tuesday to meet with President Bush, as hundreds of thousands gathered at the Capitol for Obama's inauguration. Barack and Michelle Obama arrive for an Inauguration Day prayer service Tuesday morning. The Obamas attended a prayer service at St. John's Episcopal Church on Tuesday morning and then headed to the nearby White House for a meeting with the outgoing president and first lady Laura Bush.

The 9 a.m. church service kicked off a day of events for the man who will become the nation's 44th president at noon ET. As many as 2 million people are expected to crowd into the area between the Capitol, the White House and the Lincoln Memorial as Obama takes the oath of office. Some will be more than a mile from the swearing-in ceremony, watching on giant TV screens erected along the National Mall. Thousands arrived before daylight Tuesday in standing-room-only trains. They carried blankets and wore Obama scarves to ward off the wind chills of minus 15 degrees Fahrenheit.

Suburban Washington train stations were jammed. A four-story parking deck at the Springfield, Virginia, station was filled at 5 a.m. Trains rolling into the stop about 15 miles south of the Capitol had no room for the hundreds on the platform. But just being among the crowd is good enough for many.

www.cnn.com

The Chapel Participates in the MLK Parade

Holsey Chapel Youth and Advisors represent us well in the 2009 Ben Hill County Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Parade. Special thanks to Jim Turner for coordinating and decorating our float.

Presidential Inaugural Worship Service

On the eve of the historic inauguration of President-Elect Barack Obama, Holsey Chapel C.M.E. Church opened its doors to the community in a celebration of "The Dream is Now." Clothed in shirts and caps citing the linkage between Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and President-Elect Obama, the service aroused everyone in a spirit of "Yes, We Can" with Rev. Howard's message, "A Change Gonna Come." Click here for a copy of the worship bulletin. Pictures are available on our website www.cmefitzgerald.org.