A Transitioning Church
The 201st Session of the New York Annual African Methodist Episcopal Church Conference, held April 25-30, took place at First A.ME. Bethel in Harlem, pastored by Rev. Dr. Henry A. Belin III, with the theme of “A Transitioning Church.” Rev. James E. Booker Jr. delivered the annual sermon at the official opening service on April 27. Booker, pastor of Mount Carmel AME Church, preached a powerful sermon “I’m Not Tired Yet.”
The Closing and Commissioning Service on April 30 took place at the Allen Cathedral AME Church in Jamaica, New York, pastored by Rev. Dr. Elaine M. Flake. Rev. Dr. Lanel D. Guyton, presiding elder of the Brooklyn- Westchester District, preached the anointed closing sermon, “Hold On Until Your Change Comes.” Also present were Presiding Prelate Bishop Julius H. McAllister, Episcopal Supervisor Mother Joan M. McAllister, Host Presiding Elder Rev. Dr. Kim W. Anderson, and Associate Presiding Elders Rev. Dr. Lanel D. Guyton and The Rev. Dr. Jo-An L. Owings.