From The Mind Of Bishop T. Larry Kirkland
"
I will bless the Lord at all times; His praise shall continually be in my
mouth."
To the Fertile Fifth Episcopal District - Presiding Elders, Pastors,
Clergy and Laity:
Let's make this year an
"exceptional" year in the 5th Episcopal District by equipping our
membership for discipleship; reaching out to those who are in search of
the message of salvation, proclaiming the good news - that God has the
answer to all of our needs; and as an "army" of disciples give evidence of
you harvest in "real time." When we think of how God has guided our steps,
blessed our labors, and now anoints our work, we feel truly blessed, yet
the awareness that God is not through with us yet, inspires us to go the
nest mile. The hard work that we are called to do in the larger community
is vital to the lives of those who live in the neighborhoods where we
provide ministry.
The 2010 Census needs our immediate attention. Achieving
a "full count" is not a mere slogan, but a necessary goal to insure that
services, resources and elected representation are equitably distributed.
The implementation of health care reform is not simply
an affirmation of our President, but an echo of our own lives, those of
our loved ones - elders to newborn, and the many persons who have come to
depend upon our prophetic voice for equality. Shame on us if we try to sit
by or simply respond to requests while this dialogue is taking place.
Healthcare reform must become THE topic of choice wherever you find US
among the people.
The young people and young adults who claim African
Methodism as their faith family are stepping boldly into a world that
challenges the very values of our faith and desperately need us to
continue to be role models and beacons of hope. And, let us not forget the
thousands who have "no home" or who have made the prisons and jails their
home by honoring their hope that we will address their need to be loved
and cared for. Releasing them is not an option; we are all in this
together.
Mrs. Kirkland and I are convinced that
because we are family, any challenges we face will find us ready to
rebuild the walls of the fearless, faithful, and forthright Fifth District.
With the commitment of your time, talent and treasure to awaken the
sleeping giant -- the church of Richard and Sarah Allen - the African
Methodist Episcopal Church will be the church that God has ordained us to
be.
May God's richest blessings be yours,
T. Larry Kirkland, Presiding Bishop
Fertile Fifth Episcopal District
African Methodist Episcopal Church