Ministerial Staff, Officers and Ministry Leaders
Participate in Leadership Retreat
B. Johnson, 9th Episcopal District
“Leadership is not just a calling, it is a journey.”
The ministerial staff, officers and ministry leaders of St. John AME Church participated in a leadership retreat in February, at the historic AME Publishing House in Nashville, Tennessee. Originally known as the African Methodist Episcopal Church (AMEC) Sunday School Union, the AME Publishing House was founded in 1882 by Charles S. Smith. The purpose was to provide African Methodists with printed Sunday School Curriculum materials. The new facility was opened to the public in a grand ceremony in 2023.
The leadership sessions were led by the Reverend Maurice Wright, II Servant Pastor of St. John AME Church, Huntsville; Dr. Nita Mosby Tyler, First Lady of Shorter Community AME Church, Denver, Colorado; and the Reverend Dr. Roderick Belin, President/Publisher AME Sunday School Union.
Retreat as defined in the biblical terms signifies an opportunity to step away from the stress and pace of the world, to withdraw from the ordinary activities for a period of time to commune with God in silence, prayer and reflection. Pastor Wright stated in his introductory remarks that it was his desire to bring us together to remind the leaders of the church, that they are partners with Christ in Kingdom work. He also stated that the purpose of the retreat was to be collectively renewed in the Lord’s presence, because we are stronger together.
Dr. Nita Mosby Tyler’s presentation was on “Strengthening the Leadership; Where Do We Go from Here?” Three points taken from her presentation were, number one, leaders assigned many tasks, should “Stay rooted in Christ” in everything they do. Secondly, self-care is essential for preparation in caring for others. And thirdly, leaders should remember Spike Lee’s motto; “Don’t do all the things…do the Right Things.”
The presentations concluded with the Reverend Dr. Roderick Belin, on the Sacred Role of Stewards. The focus was on 1Corinthians 4:2, “The Stewards take care of the church.” Being a dynamic musical talent as he is, he engaged the church leaders in song, then he would present another issue, then engage everyone in song and praise again.
The retreat served its purpose. The church leaders were renewed, refreshed and refocused to continue the mission of service to the membership, and partnering with God to ensure the success of the church.
