The Latest News From Reedy Chapel AME Church

Pastor Payne accepted her fourth appointment and immediately set the goal for the coming year - paying off remaining debt. This is just one part of the three-part vision she brought to Reedy Chapel - Reduction, Restoration, Revival.

2003 was a year that saw progress on all three fronts. Another $7,000 of debt was eliminated, and the organ and piano were both paid off. The Phase I renovations were completed, clearing the decks to focus on upgrades to the stained glass windows, general window repair, and installation of new flooring for the sancutary and coverings for the pews. Several revivals were conducted, with a goal of breathing spiritual life into the tiny population. As a result of these efforts, there's an atmosphere of "can do" enveloping Reedy Chapel, now in its 156th year.

In town for the 137th Session of the Texas Annual Conference (first hosted by Reedy Chapel in 1867), Bishop Young stopped by Reedy Chapel on the eve of the conference to perform the rededication. Joined by Episcopal Supervisor Dr. Dorothy Jackson Young, the prelate spent copious time in the church's archives, marveling at the historical record and enjoying the atmosphere of the Mother Church.

Bishop Young conducted the Rededication ceremonies on the steps of Reedy Chapel, knocking on the door of the building and receiving the keys from Trustee Chairman Pro Tem Dr. R. H. Stanton. Bishop Young led the procession of officers, dignitaries, members and friends into the sanctuary.

The Chancel Choir provided service music with two settings of the Scritpural text "Lift Up Your Heads, O Ye Gates". Mrs. Izola Fedford Collins offered a special rendition of "Joshua Fit de Battle Ob Jericho" on the Hook-Hastings pipe organ. Presiding Elder James H. Phillips, III introduced the Bishop, who spoke from a dual text that featured Nehemiah and Phillipians.

After the inspiring sermon by Bishop Young, Rededication co-chairs Cornelia Banks - Mayor Pro Tem of Galveston, and Dr. Pat Williams - Galveston Chapter NAACP President - celebrated Mrs. Janice Stanton, who played a vital role in securing the grants for the refurbishment, and other members who played a part in preparing for the service. Ms. Banks, flanked by city council member Lyda Ann Thomas and Houston city council member Carroll Robinson, extended the Key to the City of Galveston to Bishop Young. Pastor Payne recognized Ms. Banks's leadership.

The fellowship after the service featured cakes donated by City Council member Johnny Smecca.

Pastor Brenda Payne smiled with delight as she pointed out to the congregation the changes now manifest in Reedy Chapel:

• Completely upgraded central heating and air conditioning system
• Additional embedded air conditioning for the office area
• Revamped foyer for better lighting and greeting of our guests
• Revamped facilities
• Replaced and upgraded lighting
• Repaired gutters
• Reglazed and repainted walls, both interior and exterior

But there's still work to be done. The next phase will include refurbishment of the pews, replacement and upgrade of the carpet, and completion of the little touches that make a church building a church home.

Reedy Chapel will gladly accept your help. Donations may be mailed to Reedy Chapel, 2015 Broadway, Galveston, TX 77550. Please mark them "Renovation Effort".

Thanks for your help, and stop by and see the revived Reedy Chapel.

Adding to the official announcement of the Trustee Election, Pastor Payne also announced that her husband, Jerryl, would serve as Missionary Supervisor this year. Bro. Payne took the opportunity to organize the Missonary Society officers, and to announce that the Society would pursue three projects int he conference year. Teaching from Matthew 28:17-20 and Acts 1:6-8, Bro. Payne called upon the Society to puruse projects both locally and internationally.

The Sons of Allen, also led by Bro. Payne, had their first session as well. Bro. Payne called upon the men to 1) Identify their own need, 2) Identify others to bring to Reedy, 3) determine how we can better serve the men of Galveston.

Pastor Payne also announced the slate of Stewards and Trustees for 2002-2003. She welcomed newly appointed stewards Diane Henderson Moore (Church School Superintendent), and Alva Henley Courtney (Class LEader Coordinator). She also confirmed the election of new trustee Brock Harrell.