Board of Bishops/ IMLA Pt. 2 2024

Day two began with a cavalcade of purple as the African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church Board of Bishops processed in for the morning service. After the opening hymn and reading of scriptures, The President of the Board of Bishops, Bishop George Crenshaw, delivered a soul-stirring prayer.

The denominational choir then ignited our souls under the leadership of Dr. Lisa Moore. Implementing a Director of Music for the denomination has immediately deepened the worship experience of this gathering. Our ears were blessed with the beautiful harmonic rendition of All Hail the Power of Jesus’ Name; our eyes were blessed with the beautiful expression of worship through dance. The combination of the sights and sounds of this moment was a potent reminder that we are children of the Most High, and our reasonable response to the Presence of the Most High is praise. As Bishop Brian Thompson said, “When you know who you’re worshipping, you can bless the Lord on a Hymn, a Negro Spiritual, or an Anthem.”

After a beautiful reminder from the denominational choir that God is on Our Side, Bishop Dogbe came forward to “Present somebody who will present somebody who will present the word.” In his introduction of our Senior Bishop, Bishop Dogbe recalled that there was a time when he sought advice from Bishop Monroe, but Bishop Monroe did not respond. He let Bishop Monroe know once Bishop Dogbe decided or got his answer. Bishop Monroe replied, “Sometimes, in the midst of silence, you hear the voice of God.” The Sermon, which Bishop Frencher rendered. The details of Bishop Frencher’s sermon can be found in the previous article or on AMEZTV.

The IMLA reconvened in the afternoon for a Money Matters Workshop by Morgana Jones. Ms. Jones asked some fundamental questions: What is your worldview on money? If you passed away today, what would you leave behind? If you get sick, who will take care of you? If you lose your job, what is your backup plan?

She reminded us that wealth is a mindset before it is an asset. Therefore, it is essential to know your own “money story.” Ms. Jones is committed to helping churches find alternative ways to fundraise. There are many options. You can reach out to her directly via LinkedIn.

Rev. Dr. Orlando Dowdy was next with Looking Beyond the Pandemic: A Post-Covid Checkup. Dr. Dowdy gave us information on the state of mental health in our country since Covid 19. Studies show that rates of depression and anxiety have not returned to baseline for many, and suicide has become an option for some. Girls are more negatively affected by the collective trauma of COVID-19 than boys. Since the pandemic, there has also been an increase in PTSD.

Dr. Dowdy is a licensed Therapist/Pastoral Counselor who uses a unique combination of spiritual resources and psychological understanding in a nonjudgmental, supportive, nurturing, and safe environment. He reminds us that “whatever consumes your mind controls your life.” “If you need help,” Dr. Dowdy says, “go get it.” It is okay to have Jesus and a therapist.

The IMLA President’s Address followed. The theme: Balancing Life: Navigating Life’s Demands. Rev. Dr. Anthony Witherspoon stated that Covid brought the organization to its knees. He stated. “If we are serious about the association's future, we must be willing to pass the torch.” Nearly 1 million people walk away from the faith each year. It is necessary to foster a ministry that includes young people intentionally.

The final event for the night was the evening service in which Bishop Dennis V. Proctor preached. The details of that sermon should have been included in the first-night article. I was privileged to have a few moments to interview Bishop Proctor. “What I would like to say about my departure is that we’re leaving the church (the Board of Bishops) in good hands. There was a time when you wondered what would happen with us, but the caliber of ministers and lay people and their commitment to Jesus Christ and the institution He left. I’m encouraged. I’m excited. I can go sit down with great confidence that we will continue to be the Freedom Church and the church of Freedom.”

And the morning and the evening was the second day.