The 69th Annual Convention of the Twelfth Episcopal District Lay Organization was more than a gathering — it was a spiritual, historical, and organizational revival. Held June 11–13, 2026, at the Historic Vernon African Methodist Episcopal Church in Tulsa, Oklahoma, this year’s convening embodied its theme with power and purpose: “Reviving the Connection Exceedingly, Abundantly Above All That We Can Ask or Think!”
President Natalie Horton opened the convention on June 11, 2026, with warmth, clarity, and unmistakable enthusiasm. A spirit-lifting devotion set the tone for the day, followed by greetings from leaders across the district — including Host Conference President Regan Green, Host Pastor, the Rev. Brandon Sims, Host Local Lay President Dr. Fredrick Wright, Presiding Elders Kevin Clayton and Marcellus Fields, and Bishop Silvester Scott Beaman. Each session offered collaboration, clarity, and renewed commitment for the year ahead.
The Opening Service was a mountaintop moment. The 12th Episcopal District Music and Christian Arts Ministry (MCAM) Choir filled Faith Hall with praise that lifted every heart. A joyful welcome reception hosted by the Oklahoma State Conference closed the night with fellowship and hospitality.
The convention reconvened on Friday and centered on civic responsibility and political engagement — a vital part of Lay ministry. The Social Action team, led by Sis. Dianne Curry, Sis. Ruth Rolfe, and Sis. Cheryl Bollar brought dynamic speakers who challenged and inspired: Mayor Monroe Nichols IV, the first Black mayor of Tulsa, Senator Regina Goodwin, and Professor Vanessa Hall-Harper, Tulsa Community College. They offered insight into voting rights, civic power, and the responsibility of informed engagement. The afternoon concluded with a Holy Smokes Cookout and a powerful tour of Historic Vernon AME Church, the last remaining structure from Tulsa’s original Greenwood District —a sacred survivor of the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre.
Our Annual Gala & Lay Person of the Year Awards ceremony was held on Friday evening and was a star-studded celebration hosted by Sis. Patricia Edgerson, DOLA. Awards were presented to outstanding leaders whose service reflects the heart of Lay ministry. Their dedication continues to elevate the work of the Lay Organization across the district.
Saturday began with the Ed Swift Prayer and Meditation Service, presided by Jequetta Rogers, Young Adult Representative (YAR). It was followed by a moving memorial service honoring laypersons, clergy, and connectional leaders who transitioned this past year. Scholarships were also awarded as part of the Lay Organization’s commitment to education: the Rucker Clayton Memorial Scholarship and Textbook Scholarships.
The convention closed with a dynamic worship service led by Bishop Silvester Scott Beaman, preaching from Ephesians 3:14–15. His sermon, “Positioning for the Abundance,” charged the laity to align themselves with God’s purpose and prepare for the blessings ahead — a perfect culmination of the convention’s theme.
The 69th Annual Convention reached new heights — spiritually, organizationally, and historically. Gathering at the heart of Black Wall Street reminded us of our legacy, resilience, and responsibility.
As we move forward, the charge is clear: Revive the Connection. Serve with excellence. Trust God to do exceedingly, abundantly above all we ask or think.
