Community Part of the New Tone

Finally, after an exhausting day of instruction, several of our members along with Rev. Sterling ventured into the community to practice what we learned. We first journeyed to several homes across the street from Emanuel. There, two members, Mr. and Mrs. Bill and Joyce Graves greeted a young lady at her home. They politely explained how we were in the community spreading the word of God. From there, the woman proceeded to explain she was busy today but has often thought about visiting our church due to the activity she sees taking place each week. Afterwards, Rev. Sterling and I proceeded to go back across the street. We spoke with the occupant of the house next door to our church. The gentlemen's name was Larry; Larry was receptive to the word of God as he explained how his plight in life lead him to Jimmie Hale Mission. Larry then continued to speak on how God kept him safe throughout the harsh times in his life. We could tell that Larry was truly moved by our act of kindness. We learned on Saturday what we learn in church is training to prepare to minister to those who may need guidance and assistance. We are soldiers serving the greater cause of spreading God's undying love and word for our salvation. Our goal, as Laymen, are to share the good news of God's blessings to his children. We often speak of teaching about the rules, regulations and traditions to the members of the AME church. But after we finish all the teachings, what is the next step? Where do we go from there? I say after we learn, we utilize the knowledge we have gained to enrich the lives of others. Therefore, on this day, we, as Laymen's, pledge to work harder to enrich all inside and outside the church.