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Bethel Baptist Church 1 Fisher Court

White Plains, NY 10601 949-2792

Church Officials

Dr. E.O. Williamson Pastor

R. Jackson Deacon Chair

M. Andralliski Trustee Co-Chair

W. Gibbons Trustee Co-Chair

F. Hudson Treasurer

Monetta Abraham Church Clerk

L. Upshaw Bookkeeper

Vol. 17, Issue 3

March 4, 2018

Message from Pastor 1

Church Officers 2018 2

Birthday, Sick, Calendar 3

Church News 4

Church News 5/15

Message from Pastor Cont’d 16

INSIDE THIS ISSUE:

From the Pastor’s Desk…

2018 Theme: “Making Disciples and Developing Leaders” BBC: Making Disciples -- Building Hope, Building Rela-

tionships, and Changing Lives Our vision: To be the premier church in Westchester County; a beacon of hope to individuals, families, the

community, and the world Foundational Scripture: “The Great Commission”

Matthew 28:18-20 and Acts 11:26

Emphasis for First Quarter: “Commitment”

Praise God from whom all blessings flow! “The Lord is good, His mercy is ever-

lasting, and His truth endures to all generations.” (Psalm 100:5) February was a very busy

month filled with making plans and preparations for programs, activities, and initiatives for

the 2018 calendar year. We also held programs and events such as the Junior Ushers Bake

Sale, Men’s Ministry Fellowship Breakfast, The Scholarship/Education Ministry Benefit

Program, and Cultural Awareness Sunday. A special highlight was the parents taking the

lead in our Children’s Church Ministry and the launching of our church unified bible study,

“Believe”. Initiatives such as these will strengthen our church and draw us closer together

as a congregation. To God be the glory! Thanks officers, leaders, and members for your

support.

Our vision is to be the premier church in Westchester County. To achieve this

vision will require some changes and adjustments to more effectively do the work of minis-

try and advance the kingdom of God in this present age. Let us all work and strive together

to become the church God is calling for us to be. Especially let us focus on engaging and

involving young families and millennials in the life and ministry of our church. We also

need to develop a greater passion and concern for the lost and those who are not connected

to the church. We are entering our 133rd year of service to God, individuals, families and

the community, let us build upon and leave a rich heritage to future generations. We have

been entrusted with a rich heritage because of the dedication and sacrifice of previous gen-

erations.

Here are some of our goals for 2108:

Growth Goals Make Disciples and Develop Leaders

Evangelize and Disciple 30 New Members

100 Participants in Wednesday Bible Study/Unified Study Program

50 Leaders and 25 New Prospects for Leaders Attend Leaders Meetings

30 Leaders attend Conference, Congress, Workshop or Training Event Outside of

Bethel

Define, Develop, and Deploy 25 New Leaders To Serve In Ministries and/or As

Officers In The Church

Attendance Goals

Increase Weekly Sunday Worship Attendance To 250

Increase Livestream Weekly Viewership To 50

100 Members To Attend Revival, Programs, Special Days, and Church Events

Giving

60% of Membership Committed to Tithing (10% +)

25% of Membership Committed to Percentage Giving (1% - 9%)

85% of Membership Support Special Church Days – Men’s Day, Women’s Day,

Church Anniversary, and Special Offerings

We need the cooperation, prayers, and support of our entire congregation and

many friends as we strive to reach these goals and other initiatives for our congregation. As

stated in our business meeting, the community around us is going to undergo a great

change in coming years. Cont’d p. 16

Dr. E. O. Williamson

Newsletter Editors

Barbara Andralliski

Pamela Bowe-Tabbs Ruth Rainey

Dr. Frozine Reece-Smith,

Contributing Editor

[email protected]

Brenda Johnson, Photographer

bbchurch1 @bbc_wp

Next Issue: April 1, 2018

Bethel Baptist Church

Bethel Baptist Church Ministry Officers List for 2018

Associate Ministers

Dr. Frozine Reece-Smith

Rev. Deborah Williamson

Rev. Anthony Montague

Rev. Delores Patterson

Rev. Sarahlouise Smith

Rev. Virginia Young

Deacon’s Ministry

Deacon Richard Jackson, Sr. Chairman

Deacon Patricia Simpson, Vice-Chairman

Deacon Frank Williams, Jr. Secretary

Deacon Johnnie Dallas, Asst. Secretary

Deacon Herbert A. Greene, Treasurer

Deacon Anthony Smith, Asst. Treasurer

Deacon Benjamin Latimer

Deacon Caleb Lawrence

Deacon Randy Abraham

Deacon Dewitt R. Smith

Deacon John Greene, Deacon Emeritus

Deaconess Ministry

Deaconess Brenda Norman, President

Deaconess: Sylvia Latimer, Co-Vice-President

Deaconess Karen Jackson, Co-Vice-President

Deaconess Ann Williams, Treasurer

Deaconess Audrey Seay, Rec. Secretary

Deaconess Gwendolyn Ridgway, Chaplain

Deaconess Monetta Abraham

Deaconess Florence Greene

Deaconess Rosy McMillian

Deaconess Emily Smith

Trustee Ministry

Trustee Monica C. Andralliski, Chairman,

Business Management

Trustee Wilbur Gibbons, Chairman,

Facility Operations

Trustee Martha Harper, Secretary

Trustee Linda Robertson, Asst. Secretary

Trustee Samuel Abraham, Chaplain

Trustee Delphine Burton

Deaconess /Trustee Ann Williams

Trustee Wideon Mckoy

Trustee Herbert Strobert

Finance Team Sis. Felecia Hudson, Treasurer

Sis. Jonette Mines, Assistant Treasurer

Sis. Lyndora Upshaw, Bookkeeper

Dir. Christian Education Rev. Deborah A. Williamson

Church Clerk

Deaconess Monetta Abraham

Sunday School

Sis. Rosalind Keys, Superintendent

Sis. Stephanie Christian

Assistant Superintendent

Adult Praise Dance Ministry Sis. Stacy Dingle, President

Sis. Shayla Magdelana, Vice President

Sis. Barbara Newman, Treasurer

Sis. Monetta Abraham, Chaplain

Beautification Ministry

Sis. Geneva Benton, President

Sis. Stephanie Ward, Rec. Sec.

Sis. Lyndora Upshaw, Treasurer

Bro. Chris Howard, Chaplain

Education Ministry

Sis. Gilda Strudwick, President

Sis. Tasha Pine, Vice President

Sis. Patti Dozier, Secretary

Deaconess Sylvia Latimer, Treasurer

Sis. Georgetta Kent. Asst. Treas.

Sis. Rosalind Keys, Chaplain

Homeless Ministry

Sis. Marea Bagley, President

Sis. Stacy Dingle, Vice-President

Sis. Ruth Rainey, Recording Secy.

Sis. Yvonne Avant, Asst. Rec. Secy

Sis. Georgetta Kent, Treasurer

Deacon Patricia Simpson, Asst. Treas.

Hospitality Ministry

Sis. Patricia Manns, President

Sis. Brenda Harris, Vice-President

Sis. Shirley Johnson, Secretary

Sis. Christy Scrubb, Treasurer

Sis. Joann Edwards, Chaplain

Dr. Frozine Reece-Smith,

Spiritual Advisor

Male Chorus

Bro. Samuel Taylor, President

Bro. Henry Mills, Vice President

Deacon Caleb Lawrence, Rec. Secy.

Trustee Joseph Abraham, Treasurer

Bro. Joe Ruff, Chaplain

Men’s Ministry

Bro. Henry Mills, President

Bro. Wallace McIver, Vice-President

Bro. Leonard Hadley, Rec. Secretary

Bro. Michael Coaxum, Asst. Corr. Secy.

Bro. Steven Schmidt, Treasurer

Bro. Samuel Taylor, Assist. Treasurer

Bro. Jemal Mosley, Chaplain

Missionary Ministry

Dr. Frozine Reece-Smith, President

Sis. Carol Robinson, Vice-President

Sis. Victoria Johnson, Recording Secy.

Sis. Joann Edwards, Asst. Rec. Secy.

Sis. Pam Coleman, Corr. Secretary

Sis. Joella Shuler, Asst. Corr. Secy.

Rev. Virginia Young, Treasurer

Sis. Sheryl Franklin, Asst. Treasurer

Sis. Janet Allen, Chaplain

Sis. Roslyn Keys, Asst. Chaplain

Senior Ministry

Deaconess Sylvia Latimer, President

Sis. Georgetta Kent, Vice-President

Sis. Barbara J. High, Rec. Secretary

Sis. Joann Lee, Asst. Rec. Secy.

Sis. Christy Scrubb, Treasurer

Sis. Mary Hudson, Chaplain

Deacon Ben Latimer, Asst. Chaplain

Junior Ushers

Morgan Kind, President

Noe DeFranc,Vice-President

Samoya Drysdale, Rec. Secretary

Sophonie DeFranc,Treasurer

Tayevaugh Williams, Chaplain

Matrons

Jonette Mines

Shani Tromp-Brice

Senior Ushers

Sis Sandra Jenkins, President

Sis. Stephanie Ward, Vice-President

Sis. Deveria Seary, Rec. Secretary

Sis. Jonette Mines, Treasurer

Sis. Marlene High, Asst. Treasurer

Trustee Joseph Abraham, Chaplain

Bro. Isaac Washington, Chief

Trustee Joseph Abraham, Chief

Sis. Bea Abraham, Matron

Sis. Geneva Benton, Matron

Voices of Inspiration

Sis. Laurie Bennett, President

Sis. Joann Edwards, Vice-President

Sis. Toni Tweedy, Rec. Secretary

Sis. Brenda Johnson, Treasurer

Bro. David Coleman, Chaplain

Walter Bowen

Morris Brown

Ernestine Bryant

Mildred Carelock

Stephanie Coaxum

Charlene Coram

Cleo Daniels

Pattie Dunston

Cornelia Evans

Glenda Felder

Bennie Foster

Lolita Glover

James Goode

Deacon John Greene

Ann Hadley

Dorothy Hudson

Sylvia Jacobs

Dorothy Jenkins

Zennie Johnson

Sherita Lee

Luvenia Lunn

Aaron Nixon

Learis Palmer

Callie Rhames

Mae Sanders

Desiree Smith

Mary Watson

Cotella Williams

Dora Williamson

John Wyatt

WE’RE PRAYING FOR YOU CALENDAR HAPPY BIRTHDAY

Alma Daugett March 1

Rose Adams March 1

Wendy Dallas March 1

Diane Hadley March 1

Geneva Benton March 2

Deaconess Audrey Seay March 3

Mary Watson March 4

Britany McKenzie March 5

Pamela Earl March 5

Rosa Nelson March 6

Charles Tate March 7

Lori Smith March 7

Louise Hamme March 9

Bryce Mitchell March 10

Dionna Coleman March 14

Michael Thomas March 14

Kenndi Leak March 15

Emma Williams March 16

Shamalle Upton March 18

Julia Anderson Lee March 19

Ann Hadley March 20

Ervan Caesar March 20

Amaya Mebane March 22

Stephanie Coaxum March 22

Rev. Delores Patterson March 24

Doreen Dozier March 24

Albert Williams March 24

Dea. Randy Abraham March 26

Carrie Rogers March 28

Michelle Gordon Bartley March 28

Shyanne Johnstone March 29

Melvin Smith March 31

Mar. 5 Men’s Ministry , 6:00 pm

Male Chorus, 7:00 pm

Mar. 6 Homeless Ministry, 7:00 pm

Senior Ushers, 7:30 pm

Mar. 8 Hospitality Ministry, 6:00 pm

Mar. 10 Food Bank resume, 9:00 - 11:00 am

Leaders Meeting, 11:00 am

Divinely Inspired Mime/Drama, 12 noon

Junior Ushers’ Rehearsal, 2:00 pm

AARP Safe Driving course, 9:00 am

Mar. 13 Senior Ministry, 6:00 pm

Boy Scouts, 6:00 pm

Deacons’ Ministry, 7:30 pm

Mar. 16 Men’s Day Praise & Worship, Rev. Erwin

Trollinger, Calvary Baptist Church, guest

preacher, 7:00 pm

Mar. 18 Annual Men’s Day, Dr. Robert Young, Mt.

Olivet Baptist Church, guest preacher,

10:00 am

Missionary Meeting following worship

Calvary Baptist Church, Pastor Williamson,

guest preacher, honoring Sun day School

teachers and students, 4:00 pm

Mar. 19 Education Ministry, 6:00 pm

Mar. 20 Healthy Cooking, 6:15 pm

Mar. 24 Senior Ministry Community Dinner

(Samaritan House/Open Arms), 5:00 pm

Mar. 30 Good Friday Service, Mt. Hope, 7:00 pm

Mar. 31 Easter Egg Hunt, sponsored by Sunday School,

12 noon - 2:00 pm

National nutrition campaign focuses on the importance of making informed food choic-es and developing sound eating and physical activity habits. Making the smart food and nutrition choices is a necessary part of everyone’s daily life. This year’s theme inspires us to make healthier food choices in order to “Go Further with Food” To accomplish this goal, the ADA recommends that people:

Aim for fitness - exercise at least 30 minutes a day, five or more days a week

Build a healthy base - follow national dietary guidelines

Choose foods sensibly

In regard to choosing healthy foods, people are encouraged to:

Drink skim milk

Eat five to seven servings of fruit and vegetables each day

Eat lean meats

Drink eight 8-ounce glasses of water a day

Choose foods made with little or no added fats or creams

Bake or broil foods instead of frying

Drink beverages and eat foods containing little or no sugar

Prepare foods with less salt (limit fast foods)

Limit fast foods

Drink in moderation if they drink alcohol

Doreen & Gregory Dozier

March 26

30 Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble

and fall;

31 but those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like ea-gles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be

faint Isaiah 40: 30-31 NIV

In Case You Missed It – Ancestry to Gospel

On February 24, 2018, over two hundred attendees at Bethel Baptist

Church were treated to the rich wide-ranging offerings of the Harrigan

Educational and Cultural Center, Inc. of Mt. Vernon, New York. Spon-

sored by Bethel’s Education and Scholarship Ministry in celebration of

Black History Month, the Harrigan Company blessed the audience with

their program, Ancestry to Gospel - spoken word, rhythmic dance, and

liturgical and African dance interpretations that transcended time and

space. Dr. Joyce Harrigan, founder of the company, developed and

choreographed the performances.

The opening segment, “The Journey”, began with a powerful solo dance

performed by Dr. Candace Phaire. This dance commanded the attention

of the audience and set the tone for the evening. Following, a historical narrative by Ms. Allison Scholar piqued interest. Then,

“We Call Your Name” an interpretive dance, displayed various personalities and strong spiritual conviction in the performers. Per-

cussionist Anthony Harris kept listeners moving in their seats and dancers moving in the aisles in re-

sponse to recitations of prose written by Maya Angelou.

The second half of the program, “From Despair to Hope”, moved minds and bodies.

In the thoughtful “Mothers of Sons,” cast members portrayed mothers of children felled

by gun violence. Audience members seemingly did not know if they should shout or

weep, or both, in response to the stunning details. Spoken word by cast griot Zachary

Robinson kept listeners grounded in our history. Rounding out the evening, the entire

cast exploded into “Enter His Gates” – a rousing combination of African dance and

modern movement. All of the performances brought a unique perspective revealed in

spirit, with an overarching theme of love and trust in God.

Not to be outdone, our own Kyla Harding, Sophonie DeFranc, and Develyn Petion provided entertainment during

the program Intermission. Their original, amusing, poignant play about their

college aspirations was a creative way to weave in some African American

history while entertaining guests. Their own educational journey begins!

Thank you to Pastor Edward Williamson for establishing a relationship with Dr. Harrigan and

her company. Thanks to Sis. Gilda Strudwick and Sister Tasha Pine for their leadership of the

Education Ministry. And, thanks to Dr. Joyce Harrigan, who addressed the audience following

the program and declared the Harrigan Educational and Cultural Center, Inc. to be part of the

Bethel Baptist Church family. We embrace them!


Submitted by: Sis. Mary Marquis Education Ministry


Diane O. Diggs Submitted by: Heather Miller, Executive Dir.

Thomas H. Slater Center

On Monday, February 5, 2018, the Thomas

H. Slater Center celebrated the one year

anniversary of its Senior Drop in Center

with a naming and dedication program.

The Center was named in honor and in

memory of Diane Diggs who had strong

ties to the community and the Slater Cen-

ter. Over one hundred fifty attended the

celebration which included White Plains Mayor Thomas Roach, Deputy County Executive Ken Jenkins, Diane’s son,

Lamont Diggs, and a number of family members and friends. Performing the dedication service were Rev. Dr. Ed-

ward Williamson, pastor of Bethel Baptist Church, White Plains, Diane’s pastor; and Rev. Erwin Trollinger, pastor of

Calvary Baptist Church, White Plains and president of the Ministers Fellowship Council of White Plains and Vicinity. The children from Family

Services Head Start at Slater sang for the seniors.

Orange was the color of the day, as the seniors of the Drop In Center and some guests wore orange t-shirts, Diane’s favorite color. The program

started with dance and exercise, the way the program opens each day. Awards were presented to: Doris Hicks, most active, serving as chaplain

and exercise instructor; Winsome Plummer, most helpful; Evelyn Blasingame oldest and the one who keeps everyone in line; Richard Simmons,

most consistent giver, who makes a contribution in the donation box each day. Senior of the year was Betsy Mitchell.

Organized a year ago on February 6, 2017, the Senior Drop In Center was an urgent response to the death of Diane who was found after falling in

her apartment. Our goals for the Drop In Center were to bring seniors out of isolation, develop a buddy system, provide seniors with life-saving

information and develop a registration system where program volunteers would stay in contact with the seniors and have the ability to contact their

next of kin. The program has grown to much more. The Drop In Center started out with six seniors and now has over 40-50 attending on a regu-

lar basis. It operates Mondays and Thursdays, 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. with exercise and balance, informational sessions and presentations,

lunch, and games Westchester County Department of Senior Programs and Services (DSPS) and Public Private Partnership provide clinical

monitoring of vital signs, including blood pressure, pulse, oxygen levels and weight on a weekly basis DSPS has provided workshops on Chronic

Conditions and Chronic Pain, and ambassadors to assist with the program and in the office. Monthly intergenerational programs are held with the

children of the in-house Head Start Program: made potted plants; decorated pumpkins; baked apple products from apples collected from an apple

picking trip; gift giving and singing for the holidays. A theatre workshop, funded by Arts Westchester, is underway where seniors will tell and per-

form their own stories at a date to be determined in the spring.

The seniors have visited and/or participated in and with other organizations and programs at the White Plains Senior Center; Theodore Young

Community Center; Mt. Pleasant Community Center; White Plains Education & Training Center; Trinity United Methodist Church Senior Ministry;

Calvary Baptist Church Golden Saints; collaborated with Bethel Baptist Church on a Cookout for Men, had lunch and interacted with other seniors

at 120 Lake Street and 70 Ferris Avenue; and attended DSPS sponsored programs at the Westchester County Center.

Weekly presenters have included: Affinity Health Plan, Age Well New York, Alzheimer's Association, Beal Bank, Business of Your Business, Cor-

nell University Cooperative Extension, Community Hearing, Martine Center, MVP Health Care, NAACP of White Plains/Greenburgh, Partners

Health Plan, Philips Lifeline, ShopRite, Social Security Administration, Urban League of Westchester, Westchester Bee Line System, Westchester

Community Opportunity Program, Westchester Children’s Association, White Plains Central School District, White Plains Family YMCA, White

Plains Fire Department, White Plains Hospital, White Plains Police Department and the YWCA of White Plains and Central Westchester. The

Slater Center has formed a partnership with the YMCA of White Plains and the Martine Center: A Trifecta of Healthy Older Adults. The first collab-

orative event will be held at the YMCA on February 12th, 11a.m. – 2:00 p.m., with others planned for the spring, summer and fall.

For Diane Drop In Center operates with no direct funding, however, it receives donations of food

items from the Ecumenical Food Pantry and the emergency food

pantry of the White Plains Community Action Partnership. Senior

volunteers prepare and serve the meals. Seniors also staff the

registration desk. The senior participants, themselves, assist by

donating paper goods, food, etc., contribute to a donation box,

and have held a fundraising bake sale. To make a donation to

the For Diane Drop In Center, please send checks payable to the

Thomas H. Slater Center/For Diane and mail to Thomas H. Slater

Center, 2 Fisher Court, White Plains, NY 10601.

Diane O. Diggs Pastor Williamson & Pastor Trollinger

Betsy Mitchell (Senior of the

Year) & Heather Miller

Heather Miller and her Drop In Center members attend Sunday morning worship at Bethel


Women’s History Month

During the Black History Month program we learned of the courageous women who inspired the 2018 graduating seniors.

Kyla Harding – Charlotte E. Ray was the first African American female lawyer in the United States. She graduated from Howard University School

of Law in 1872.

Develyne Petion - Dr. Inez Beverly Prosser was the first African American female to graduate with a PhD in Psychology. She earned her degree in

1933 from the University of Cincinnati.

Sophonie Defranc - Edmonia Lewis was the first Native American/African American female Sculptor. She gained prominence during the Civil War

and achieved international fame and recognition.

Charlotte E. Ray Dr. Inez Beverly Prosser Edmonia Lewis

2nd Quarter Honor Roll Amir Jackson

4th Grade

R.J Bailey Elementary

Serenity Crump

8th Grade

Highlands Middle School

Samoya Drysdale

10th Grade

WPHS

Sophonie Defranc

12th Grade

WPHS

Kyla Harding

12th Grade

WPHS

Develyne Petion

12th Grade

WPHS

Submitted by:

Sis. Tasha Pine

Education Ministry

THESE WOMEN ARE NOT BEHIND BARS BUT ARE IN PRISON!!

Kairos Outside NYC, chartered in 2009 is the local chapter of Kairos Prison Min-

istry International, designed for women impacted by incarceration. Someone in

their life is or was in prison. In many ways the families are “doing time” right along

with the incarcerated. This ministry is also for women, that were themselves pre-

viously incarcerated. Mass Incarceration, is described as the new Jim Crow, from 1970 to 2005 the

number of inmates increased 700%. The U.S. has the highest incarceration rate in the world.

Each year Kairos Outside NYC offers two Weekend Retreats, for women. These women referred

to as “Guest’s” have an opportunity to get to know other’s that share similar struggles and con-

cerns. The last Retreat Weekend took place in November and thirty five (35) women participated.

Guest’s are in some way transformed by participating in this Kairos Weekend. The goal of this min-

istry is to address the Guest’s spiritual needs by providing a loving, safe, and supportive environ-

ment. JoAnn Edwards, Sharon Gilham, Yvonne Harris, Janice Robinson, Dr. Frozine Reece-Smith

and Stephanie Ward are members of Bethel Baptist Church and this Kairos ministry.

It cost approximately $15,000 to carry out this Retreat. ALL expenses are covered by donations,

consequently Guest’s do not pay a fee. If you would like to make a monetary donation or attend

the next Retreat which will take place in May 2018, please speak to Pastor Williamson or Sharon

Gilham…… [email protected]. Donations can also be made to: Kairos Outside NYC, P.O.

Box One, Larchmont, N.Y. 10538 Website: www.kairosoutsidenyc.org / [email protected].

This ministry greatly needs volunteers, referred to as “Angels” that can assist in loading

supplies onto our truck May 4th & 6th.

Submitted by:

The Education Ministry

mailto:[email protected]

mailto:[email protected].


Congratulations & Welcome !!!

New Members/Discipleship Class - February 2018

Pastor Williamson To Give First Address As State Dean

Pastor Williamson will give his first address as the dean for the Empire Baptist State Congress of Christian Educa-tion on Tuesday, April 3rd at the 63rd Annual Congress Session in Syracuse, New York. The church will charter a

bus to support our pastor. Seats are limited. Please sign up in the Christine Mitchell Fellowship Hall.

Pastor Williamson is a certified dean of Christian Education. The dean is the chief administrator for certified leader-ship schools and training sessions such as the Congress and Annual Retreat events. Pastor Williamson has been a certified dean since 1998. He has served on the dean’s staff as assistant dean for three of his predecessors. He also currently serves as the president for the Central Hudson Baptist Association. Mostly recently he has been invit-

ed to be a contributing author for the 2018 National Congress theme book to be published in June.

Children’s Church

The first meeting of the Children’s Church took place on Sunday, February 18th 2018 in the lower fellowship hall. We started with the “I Believe”

curriculum that covered the lesson on “Who Is God?” The parents worked as a team and the children responded well to the presentation and activi-

ties which included a video, scripture reading, music and a craft activity concerning God the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit. Each child was

given the opportunity to present their project to the group to summarize what they learned.

Children’s Church will meet on the first and third Sundays. Our next lesson will be on “Personal God”. Please send your chi ldren downstairs at

10am to participate in the Children’s Church.

Valerie Johnstone and Michael Coaxum

(L-R) Sarinah Jean-Baptiste, Jacqueline Bozier, Tanya Robinson,

Kimberly Brown, Michael Young , Dr. Williamson, Pastor-Teacher The class was taught by Rev. Deborah Williamson, Director of Christian Education

L-R: Dr. Williamson, Dr. Patricia Rickenbacker, Dr. James Black-burn, Dr. Philip Elliott


“Missionaries On The Move”

Immediately after the 2018 officers of Bethel were

installed, the Missionary officers and members “hit

the ground running”. We boarded the church bus

and headed over to First Community Baptist Church

in Greenburgh where we joined them in celebrating

the 57th Missionary Ministry Anniversary.

A total of 16 missionaries from Bethel attended the

service. They were: Sisters Emory Watson, Joann

Edwards, Barbara Andralliski, Lillie Louissaint,

Sheryl Franklin, Pamela Coleman, Shirley Johnson,

Joella Shuler, Janet Allen, Stephanie Ward, Carol

Robinson, Deaconesses Gwendolyn Ridgway, Sylvia

Latimer, Trustee Joseph Abraham, Deacon Dewitt Roy Smith, and Dr. Frozine Reece-Smith. We arrived at 2:10 p.m.

and enjoyed a delicious meal before the service. During the service, a few of our missionaries joined in with First Com-

munity’s Choir to help them sing their special selections. (see choir picture)

Rev. Dr. Tyrone Robinson, Pastor of First Community, delivered a very inspiring message that challenged us in our role

to be more committed missionaries.

The new slate of officers for the 2018 Missionary Ministry are as follows:

President - Dr. Frozine Reece-Smith

V. President - Sis. Carol Robinson

Recording Sec’y. - Sis. Victoria Johnson-Taylor

Asst. Record. Sec’y. Sis. Joann Edwards

Corresponding Sec’y. Sis. Pamela Coleman

Asst. Corresponding Sis. Joella Shuler

Chaplain Sis. Janet Allen

Asst. Chaplain Sis. Rosalind Keys

On Thursday, March 1, 2018, we began our 1st project for the new year with the Lott Carey Women’s Prayer Calendar.

This year marks the 6th Annual event in celebration of Women’s History Month. Each year, we are encouraged by Lott

Carey’s Women In Service Everywhere (W.I.S.E.) to go before the Lord and pray for vulnerable women and girls, indi-

viduals who are victims of burnings, honor killings, female genocide, child marriage, and denial of women’s human

rights to work and be educated. The Missionaries of Bethel are “standing tall” to support justice and equality for women

who are oppressed and need us to stand for them. Won’t you join us? Please see Dr. Frozine Reece-Smith, if you are

interested in our Women’s Prayer Calendar and 31 days of prayer for women’s empowerment.

Prayer changes things! “Pray in the Spirit at all times and on every

occasion. Stay alert and be persistent in your

prayers for all believers everywhere” Ephesians 6:18 (NLT).

Submitted by: Dr. Frozine Reece-Smith


Working Churches’ Black History Program

February is always Bethel Baptist Church’s month to host the Working Churches of Westchester County. The natural flow for a theme is usually something that focuses on Black History. The program for this year began with the singing of “Lift Every Voice and Sing”. Sis. Rosalind Keys gave words of welcome, as we prepared to re-ceive this year’s performers. Rev. Virginia Mebane-Young gave a graceful interpretive dance to honor the life of South African trumpeter, composer, and singer, Hugh Masekela. Mr. Masekela has been described as “the fa-ther of South African jazz”. He was born on April 4, 1939 and he passed away on January 23, 2018 in Johannesburg, South Africa.

Our special guest, Sis. Machelle McKelvey, hails from St. Stephen, South Carolina. She is a member of Mt. Hope A.M.E. Zion

church where she is involved in many activities. Machelle started acting in a 7th grade play when she played the role of Mother Nature. She has sung with the best, including Rev. Julius Cheeks and the dynamic queen of Gospel, Shirley Caesar. She made her debut in Westchester, New York in 1993 at the Westchester County Center with the late Rev. Timothy Wright. Machelle is currently a Music Specialist at the I.A.H.D./ St. Jude in Tarrytown, New York. Her mother, who is 92 years old, taught her to be the best that she can be, and always keep your thoughts on Christ. Her motto is “GOD IS”. Machelle’s performance, “How We Got Here”, was definitely a profound tribute to our ancestors for this year’s Black History program. We closed our program with a tribute to the octogenarian plus (85 & above) members of Work-ing Churches. Mrs. Nettie Banks of Star of Bethlehem in Ossining, N.Y. was recognized as the oldest member. She is 96 years old. Deacon Smith closed the program with the benediction and the blessing for the food. As al-ways, Sis. Geneva Benton and the Culinary Ministry prepared a delicious meal enhanced with all the “special” touches of an authentic African American cuisine.


Working Churches members age 85 and above honored


Culture Awareness Day

Sunday, February 25, 2018 we at Bethel Baptist Church celebrated our Annual Culture Awareness

by dressing in our heritage garbs. With having such a very diverse congregation it was good to see

everyone participating with our Annual Culture Awareness on this day.


Empire Baptist Congress of Christian Education

86th

Annual One Day Retreat

Saratoga Springs, New York

On February 19, 2018, the Sunday School Ministry sponsored a bus trip to Saratoga Springs, NY to attend the One Day Christian Education Retreat. We were welcomed by our own Pastor Williamson who directed us into the auditorium for the opening session. Sis. Rosalind Keys picked up our registration packets and distributed them to all attendees. The 2018 theme is “Equipping Disciples for Effective Ministry in the 21st Century” Ephesians 4:11-16. In the morning session, we lis-tened to the following pastors expound on the theme:

1. Rev. Dr. Timothy P. Taylor Pastor, Hebron Baptist Church in Brooklyn, NY

2. Rev. Shawn Roberson Pastor, Southern Missionary Baptist Church in Syracuse, NY

Lunch was sold in the convention center from 12:30 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. The closing session began at 2:00 p.m. with special greetings from Rev. Dr. Carl L. Washington, Jr., President Empire Baptist Missionary Convention; Rev. Leonard A. Oates, Moderator Hudson River Frontier Missionary Baptist Association; and Rev. Julius A. Collins, Jr., Moderator Central Hudson Baptist Association. After the music ministry from the Empire Baptist Missionary Convention Retreat Choir, the message was brought forth by the guest retreat preacher, Rev. Dr. Arthur Jackson, III, Pastor of Antioch Missionary Baptist Church in Miami Gardens & Fort Lauderdale, Fla. His message challenged us to have radical, responsive, and resilient faith. What an awesome and inspiring message! It lifted the spirits of everyone in the house! Rev. Dr. Jackson concluded the service with an altar call for the entire cabinet of the Empire Baptist Missionary Convention.

We boarded the bus after being spiritually filled and fed by Rev. Dr. Jackson’s powerful message. The day was enjoyed immensely by everyone who journeyed to Saratoga Springs with the Sunday School Ministry of Bethel. Our bus included the following: Sisters Rosalind Keys, Martha Rogers, Shirley Johnson, Brenda Johnson, Brenda Mills, Sheryl Franklin, Janet Allen, Janice Robinson, Fay Watson, Joann Edwards, Bro. Leonard Hadley, Deacons Dewitt Roy Smith, Caleb Lawrence, Henry Mills, Deaconesses Sylvia Lati-mer, Ann Williams, and Dr. Frozine Reece-Smith. Pastor Erwin L. Trollinger, along with 4 members from his church (Calvary Baptist) were also on our bus. Submitted by: Dr. Frozine Reece-Smith

S U M M E R 2 0 1 8

V O L U N T E E R

O P P O R T U N I T Y

For White Plains Youth Ages 14 -17 years

Volunteer and Become a Member of the

White Plains Community Youth Court!

*Receive up to 6 weeks of educational training from local Prosecutors and Attorneys*

*Get Community Service Hours* *Gain Public Speaking Experience*

*Excellent addition to any College Resume*

*Gain Early-Bird Enrollment for Youth Court Summer Training* Training Workshops will be in White Plains July 2, 2018 to August 16, 2018

Times 5:30pm to 7:30pm

After completing workshops, participants will graduate from Training and begin Youth Court in September 2018.

To Learn More and to complete an application, please Call the Program Coordinator

Questions? Contact – Connie Jones-Hairston, Youth Court Coordinator


Believe Church Unified Bible Study A Great Success

Let’s celebrate the initial success of our church unified bible study, “Believe”. In February we began our study of “Believe” with attendance growing to over seventy-five participants in the morning and afternoon Bible Study group sessions. “Believe” is a bible study curriculum consisting of thirty lessons that will help our church explore our beliefs, actions, and what we are becoming. Author and general editor Randy Frazee has assembled a curriculum that helps participants and disci-ples to begin the journey toward becoming like Christ. To become like Christ begins with thinking like Christ. We will use the curriculum and the small group discussion and interactive format to help our congregation learn, fellowship, and grow spiritually. Sessions last approximately one hour with periods of prayer, video presentation, and review and discussion of assigned readings. We invite all members of our congregation and friends to join with us in the special ef-fort to promote unity and growth in our church and community. The Believe curriculum will also be used with our Children’s Church Ministry and our Teen Night Bible Study Group. Believe – Living The Story Of The Bible To Become Like Jesus. Join us on the journey!

Passage To Excellence

The Passage To Excellence Corporation is a not-for-profit corporation created by our con-gregation to provide services to children, youth, families, and the community. Passage To Excellence has been a blessing to Bethel over the years by allowing the expansion of services and outreach to individuals and families through diverse programs from the afterschool pro-gram (now called the STEAM Academy) and summer enrichment program for children and youth to programs for adults such as the exercise program and the healthy cooking classes. Many have been blessed through efforts of the board, staff, and community partners who

have obtained and coordinated the use of resources and programs for the benefit of individuals and the community.

Passage to Excellence has always depended upon support from the members of Bethel and members of the commu-nity. This year, Passage needs our help to deliver a quality Summer Enrichment Program for our children and youth. As in the past, we are asking individuals, groups of individuals, and even ministries to adopt a youth for the program. The cost per youth is $700. You can also assist with the needs of this excellent organization by make donations that are tax deductible or supporting fundraisers such as the Mother’s Day Brochure and the Lord and Taylor special sale for not-for-profit organiza-tions. You can also seek to become a member of the Passage To Excellence Board or volunteer your skills, talents, and ser-vices to one of the programs or initiatives. See a member of the Passage to Excellence Board for additional information. Let’s remember Passage To Excellence in our prayers and giving this year.

Dr. Edward O. Williamson, Pastor-Teacher

Kum Ba Yah!

The song Kum ba yah (“kumbaya”) began as a sincere plea of a genera-

tion of African Americans for God’s intervention. It is difficult to pin-

point the precise origins but most music historians agree that it originated

with the Gullah people. The Gullah people, (also called Geechee), were

descendants of enslaved Africans who lived on the Sea Islands and in the

coastal regions of the states of South Carolina and Georgia.

The Gullah developed their own creole language, based on English but

with strong influences of West African languages. The words “kum ba

yah” mean “come by here”. The song became more and more popular as

the people suffered under the Jim Crow regime of the south.

Recordings of “Kum Ba Yah” were made in 1926. The song was later

used by white Folk Artists in the late 50s and by the early 60s it had be-

come a popular camp song and one of the songs of the Civil Rights

Movement.

The Gullah, and the broader African American community have suffered

much, and yet that suffering does not define them as a people. So wheth-

er in good times or not so good times, the song invites God’s presence

and calls for Him to make Himself known in the circumstances of the

song.

In our worship experience, we must sing songs of our faith with convic-

tion while remembering the promise that they are rooted in the fact that:

“The Lord is nigh unto all them that call upon him, to all that call upon

him in truth” Psalm 145:18 (KJV).

“Kum Ba Yah” is found in the hymn book in every pew on page #506.

Make it personal and ask the Lord to “come by here”…your house…your

job…your neighborhood.

“…ye have not, because ye ask not” James 4:2b (KJV).


Men’s Ministry Fellowship Breakfast

On Saturday, February 24, 2018 Bethel Baptist Church Men’s Ministry, hosted a fellowship breakfast for all men of Bethel Baptist Church, and those that didn’t have a church home. The theme was “Men: On Fire for God, Strong to Serve” The Scriptures were from Hebrews 12:29; Jeremiah 23:29.

Dr. E. O. Williamson Bethel Baptist Church

1 Fisher Court White Plains, NY 10601

Cont’d from p.1

We must be prepared to effectively serve as a beacon of hope to individuals, families, the community and the world as our communi-

ty and culture changes.

As always, we must support the financial needs of our congregation through tithes and offerings. Maintaining our facilities,

providing necessary resources, and supporting the work of ministry and missions requires financial resources. Please always seek to

give your best offering and tithe to support this great work. If you are not a tither, become a percentage giver at 3%, 5% or 8% until

you grow to the level of tithing which is 10% of your income.

A good measure to strive for is to give at least $1,000 in special offering to help the ministry and mission of the church. A

sample or suggested way in which to reach this goal is to give $133 to Church Anniversary, $240 Capital Improvement, $100 to

Men’s Day, $100 to Women’s Day, $100 to Passage to Excellence, $100 Special Days, $100 Million Dollar Fund, and $127 Sacrifi-

cial. You can give weekly, biweekly, monthly, or annually by using your envelopes or online giving to make payments toward reach-

ing this goal. We encourage our congregation to give as God has blessed you to be able to give with a cheerful spirit. Men’s Day, one

of our first major financial efforts will be celebrated March 16th and 18th. We are asking each member to give $100 to help reach the

financial goal of $15,000.

Remember our motto, “We’re all in this together, being the church God has called us to be.”

Peace and blessings,

Dr. Edward O. Williamson, Pastor-Teacher

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