Another high profile minister is weighing in on the Bishop Eddie Long scandal.  Bishop Paul S. Morton has decided to make a public plea to Eddie Long.  He wants him to show remorse or repent publicly so that the healing can begin.

Bishop Eddie Long is rumored to have settled with the 4 plaintiffs accusing him of

sexual mis-conduct for either 15 or 25 million dollars.   Morton joins a growing list of ministers speaking out on the issue.  Mega-Church Pastor Creflo Dollar came out in support of Bishop Eddie Long recently, while Juanita Bynum and Bishop T.D. Jakes chose to speak only to say that we all should pray for those involved.  

On Sunday, during his Father’s Day sermon Bishop Morton addressed Bishop Long’s lack of humility and repentance over his actions.  He acknowledges that Eddie Long, who once spoke to him, won’t return his calls.

Therefore, he is saying publicly that he wants Eddie Long to stop hiding his actions in silence. Listen to the audio below: 

R&B superstar John Legend stunned locals in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania by performing at a local church.

The star was a surprise guest at the Calvary Baptist Church in West Philadelphia and sang Aretha Franklin classic ‘How I Got Over’ with churchgoers.

The performance was captured on video, “I grew up singing and playing gospel music says Legend.”  “I played in a bunch of choirs as a kid, up through going to college.”  “I paid my way through school by being a director of music in church.”  

“A lot of the greatest soul singers in American history started in the black church.”  “It’s very obvious when you listen to gospel and soul music, you can see and hear and feel the connection. I haven’t performed in church for a while.”  

“I thought it’d be cool to go back in, do something that explored my roots a little bit, surprise the choir, surprise the church.” “It was cool, like the church calling out for me.”  “This has reminded me of my childhood.”

John Legend is on tour with Sade through September. 

Construction continues on The Martin Luther King Jr. National Memorial in Washington, DC. The 28-foot-tall statue of the slain civil rights leader will be dedicated later this summer.

The dedication of the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial on the National Mall in August may draw as many as 400,000 people — more than the 1963 March on Washington, organizers say.

Former secretary of State Colin Powell, Stevie Wonder and Aretha Franklin are among the people expected to participate in five days of concerts, dinners, seminars and prayer services celebrating King’s legacy, says Harry Johnson, CEO of the Martin Luther King Jr. National Memorial Project Foundation..

The $120 million memorial, the only one on the Mall that does not commemorate a president or a war, will be dedicated Aug. 28, the anniversary of the march and King’s I Have a Dream speech, which drew an estimated 200,000 people.

Johnson says the National Park Service is planning for 400,000 people. Sgt. David Schlosser, spokesman for the U.S. Park Police, would not confirm that figure, saying his office does not give out crowd projections.

The memorial, designed around the themes of justice, democracy and hope, is on 4 acres between the Jefferson and Lincoln memorials. It features a sculpture of King and excerpts from his sermons and speeches.

“This is the first time on the Mall that there will be a memorial dedicated to a man of peace, a person of non-violence, and to someone who was never elected to political office,” says Rep. John Lewis, a Democrat representing Atlanta. Lewis was a King protégé and one of the organizers of the March on Washington. “For the memorial to be literally between Jefferson and Lincoln, that says something.”

Organizers are in the final stretch of a 15-year fundraising effort, started by Alpha Phi Alpha, King’s fraternity. They have about $8 million left to raise. “I have to believe that as giving as the American people are, that they’re going to close the gap on this,” Johnson says.

The dedication will cap a five-day celebration. Actor Jamie Foxx and singers BeBe Winans and Lionel Richie have promised to appear, Johnson says. President Obama, Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton and former president Bill Clinton have been invited but have not said if they will attend.

Powell’s office says he hopes to come, though his schedule is not firm for August.

“Dr. King held up a mirror to America and said, ‘Look at who and what we are. Is this the America we want? Is this the America our Founding Fathers dreamed of, even if they could not realize it in their time? Is this the America that is supposed to be the model for the rest of the world?'” Powell says in a statement from his office. “The answer had to be, ‘No!'”

Free events include the dedication and two concerts. Tickets for other events range from $85 for a “civil rights pioneers luncheon” to $250 for a gala at the National Building Museum. Other events, including a service at Washington National Cathedral, are by invitation only.

Evelyn Lowery and her husband, Joseph Lowery, will be at the dedication. He founded the Southern Christian Leadership Conference with King, and she founded a sister group, SCLC/Women’s Organizational Movement for Equality Now.

“It’s a big project, and with the economy what it’s been, it’s understandable it has taken longer than expected,” Evelyn Lowery says.

“But it’s worth the wait.”

TV evangelist Creflo Dollar is looking to expand his ministries to the Bronx, New York by purchasing the Kingsbridge Armory.  Dollar recently made a proposal to finance the development of the 5-acre facility.

Dollar “wants to turn it into a multi-use facility,” one source told the NYPost.com. “He’s got a huge following and needs an arena.”  Dollar offered to put up his own money for the renovations, the only bidder to do so.  

The proposal is coming with it’s share of criticism because the facility is currently city-owned.  The city recently blocked plans for a major company to build a $310 million dollar retail development.

If approved, Dollar would keep his other church location in Georgia which seats 8,500 people.

Some of the proponents against Dollar argue that a church can’t create enough jobs, and site Creflo Dollars’ prosperity teaching and extravagant lifestyle.  Dollar travels in a gulfstream jet, and brings in more then $65 million dollars a year through his ministries.  

The property would serve as a arena for rent, and a worship center.

Click Here to read the full story by the New York Post. 

So, the question comes; can your now handle the opportunity that will take you from where you are to where you are destined to be? It seems that we have neglected our now while trying to get to our future. It is important for us to understand that the only way to get to that elusive there is to be a good steward of here. That means that we must find ourselves being faithful in the areas that God has placed us in. It is never wrong to want more but we can’t let work go undone while aspiring to go somewhere else. We have to take on the mindset that where I am now will help me for where I am soon to go. There are crucial lessons that we are missing because we don’t value our now. When we excuse the current place God has us; we also excuse the preparation that comes with that place. You’d be surprised how much easier transition would be if you would be diligent concerning the things that you are already doing.

It would be ashamed for promotion to come with you out of position. Humble yourself and be found faithful doing what God has called you to do. When it is time for God to bring you into the next place, He will. At my job, there is a thing called releasability. This comes into play when employees are trying to post out of certain departments. In order for an employee to apply, their supervisor must deem them releasable. There are a lot of factors as to why this rule is in place. However, one of the factors really spoke to me. Supervisors don’t want to give other departments people who are not going to benefit them. So, if the opportunity of a life time came, would you be releasable? Would God allow you to go forward or would he think of you as unbeneficial? Be diligent! Stay on the Path!

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 About the Author: Path contributing writer Calvin Walker has been writing editorial content for Path MEGAzine since 2007.  Calvin’s ability to break down the word of God with thought provoking analogies and real life analysis makes an impact on Christians seeking a closer walk with God.  An accomplished author, Walker released his debut book titled “The Gallery” early 2010.  Click here to read excerpts and purchase Walkers’   

Westchester, New York – PATH MEGAzine – Accomplished Songwriter and Producer Stan Jones is set to receive a prestigious ASCAP (American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers) Award during its 24th Annual Rhythm & Soul Music Awards this week in Los Angeles, CA. 

“All I Need,” the soul-stirring worship tune written and produced by Stan Jones spent 92 weeks on the Billboard Hot Gospel Song Chart breaking the all-time record for the longest-running current single ever in the history of the Billboard Gospel Charts. 2010 Billboard Year-End charts would name Stan Jones as the #3 Songwriter and # 4 Producer of the year as well as Jones’ Above STANdard Publishing ranking as the #3 Top Publisher among other honors in the Gospel category.  “All I Need” went on to receive a 2011 GMA Dove Award nomination.

Current popular music credited to Stan Jones includes penning “He Has His Hands on You” as performed by eight time Grammy nominee Marvin Sapp; as well as writing and producing “I Worship Your Name,” a standout song from the current Trin-i-tee 5:7 album, Angel & Chanelle which recently debuted at #1 on both Billboard’s Top Gospel Album Chart and Top Christian/Gospel Album Chart, #2 on Billboard’s Top R&B/Hip Hop Album Chart, #5 on the Independent Chart and #19 on the Billboard 200.

The ASCAP awards ceremony will be held Friday June 24, 2011 at the Beverly Hilton Hotel in Los Angeles, also honoring Sean “Diddy” Combs with the highest honor: The ASCAP Founders Award. The ASCAP Rhythm & Soul Music Awards honors the most successful songwriters and publishers of the past year in R&B/Hip-Hop, Rap and Gospel music.

This week, Kirk Franklin’s Hello Fear, returns to Billboard’s #1 position after loosing the spot last week to Trin-i-tee 5:7′s Angel & Chanelle, the first time Franklin’s album was not #1 since its March release.

T57′s album moves to a respectable #2, followed by Mary Mary’s Something Big at #3.  Bishop Jakes’ Sacred Love Songs 2 project and WOW Gospel 2011 bring up the rear at #4 and #5, respectively.

The rest of the Gospel Albums top 10 is right here: (Sales)

1 | Kirk Franklin – Hello Fear
2 | Trin-i-tee 5:7 – Angel & Chanelle
3 | Mary Mary – Something Big
4 | TD Jakes – Sacred Love Songs 2
5 | WOW Gospel 2011
6 | Tedashii – Blacklight
7 | Yolanda Adams – Becoming
8 | Deitrick Haddon – Church on the Moon
9 | Marvin Sapp – Playlist: The Very Best of Marvin Sapp
10 | Various Artists (EMI Gospel) – Gospel’s Best Worship

In the world of Radio Plays.. 

1 | Kirk Franklin –  “I Smile”
2 | Troy Sneed – “My Heart Says Yes”
3 | VaShawn Mitchell – “Nobody Greater”
4 | Trin-i-tee 5:7 – “Over and Over”
5 | William McDowell – “I Give Myself Away”
6 | Deitrick Haddon – “Well Done”
7 | Mary Mary – “Walking”
8 | Marvin Sapp – “He Has his Hands on You”
9 | James Fortune – “I Believe”
10 | Ricky Dilliard – “God is Great”

The fastest gainer on the charts goes to  Earnest Pugh’s new one “I Need Your Glory.”  Moving fast up the charts at #11.

BET has announced its performance lineup for the 2011 BET Awards.

Gospel greats, Pastor Shirley Caesar, Donnie McClurkin, Faithful Central Choir and Best Gospel Nominees Mary Mary and Dietrick Haddon.  Best Gospel nominee Mary Mary is often credited with helping to broaden the gospel music fan base with hits like “Walking.”  Deitrick Haddon, also nominated, had his most recent album “Church On The Moon” debut at #1 on the Billboards Top Gospel charts and #65 On Billboard 200. 

Joining the list of world-renowned performers are newcomers and Music Matters Artists, Mali Music and Kimberly Nichole.   Mali Music has a huge social media and online following and has performed with such artists as Tye Tribbett, Kirk Franklin and other gospel greats. Seattle-born Kimberly Nichole is a very diverse songstress who combines rock, reggae, gospel and soul into her music. BET Networks’ Music Matters campaign highlights the next BET talents through music, bios, music videos, photos and intimate interviews with artists.  

The gospel performances are guaranteed to infuse the BET stage with praise and worship and bring the audience to their feet. Hosted by Kevin Hart, BET AWARDS ‘11 is a showcase of the best there is in black music and features performances and entertainment for the entire family. 

Other performers include Beyonce, Mary J. Blige, Jill Scott, Chris Brown, Alicia Keys, Drake, Kelly Rowland, Ace Hood, and Lil Wayne.

This year’s event is hosted by comedian Kevin Hart and will air live on June 26, 2011 at 8p ET.

Edwin Hawkins, internationally known, multi-Grammy Award winning artist, will lead Love Fellowship Ministries as they present the 30th Annual Music and Arts Love Fellowship (MALF) Conference. This will be the organization’s first national gathering since the passing of Hawkins’ brother and co-founder, Bishop Walter Hawkins. The event is poised to reignite attendee’s thirst for ministry, music and the arts. MALF will take place June 26 – July 2, 2011 at the Riviera Hotel, 2901 Las Vegas Boulevard South in Las Vegas, NV. Known around the world as the originator of the Urban Contemporary Gospel Sound, Hawkins is best known for his platinum selling arrangement of “Oh Happy Day.”

Now under the sole leadership of Hawkins, MALF promises to be a continued inspiration to all who attend. “We’re excited to be continue the legacy of my beloved brother,” shares Edwin Hawkins, co-founder of MALF. MALF will feature Gospel greats Richard Smallwood, Donald Lawrence, Bishop Hezekiah Walker, Tramaine Hawkins, Kim Burrell, JJ Hairston, Melanie Daniels, Myron Butler, Dewayne Woods, Beverly Crawford, Tye Tribbett, Ted Winn, Ann Nesby, and many more. “This conference is bittersweet for us, but we know that Walter would be overjoyed to know we are keeping his vision and his love alive,” continues Hawkins.

Registration is required for workshops and trainings. Nightly services are free and open to the public. For more information, or to register, visit www.musicandartslovefellowshipconference.org or call 510-264-1766

About Walter Hawkins

Multi-talented multi-Grammy award winner Edwin Hawkins remains in the forefront of Gospel music by continually transforming Gospel music and attracting new audiences. He is the man who recorded the biggest gospel hit record of all time in 1969, “Oh Happy Day.” Edwin, who is affectionately know as the Father of Contemporary Gospel has taken on the mantle to continue to legacy and vision of his beloved brother, Walter Hawkins.

Thomas A. Farrington isn’t looking for cards or a tie this Father’s Day. What he really wants, he says, is for other black men sitting in the pews with a prostate cancer diagnosis to know they’re not alone. Two years ago, Farrington, the founder of the Boston-based Prostate Health Education Network (PHEN), launched Father’s Day Rallies Against Prostate Cancer to raise awareness — and emotional support — in black churches and civic groups.

Any given Sunday, he said, “you can be sitting next to a fellow member and not know that you both have prostate cancer or that he has survived what you’re going through.”

Like the stigma that women once carried with breast cancer, Farrington said prostate cancer has rendered too many black men silent or, worse, driven them to their graves. The lack of knowledge and support about prostate cancer is “needlessly causing deaths and suffering, which must be changed,” Farrington said.

Prostate cancer disproportionately affects African-American men; according to the American Cancer Society, black men have a prostate cancer rate that’s 60 percent higher than white men. Black men are more than twice as likely to die from the disease, including a projected 5,300 deaths in 2011.

Farrington said church-based awareness, which can lead to treatment, is “one of the most critical pieces of the puzzle.”

Farrington, who lost his father and grandfathers to the disease, founded PHEN three years after his own diagnosis. For the past seven years, his group has hosted an annual African-American Cancer Disparity Summit in Washington.

The idea behind the church rallies, he said, is to “take the message and education to one of the most trusted places we have in the black community: the church.”

Lifting the stigma is often the hardest part, activists said, and it often needs to start in the pulpit.

The Rev. Frank Tucker, who in May marked his ninth month as a cancer survivor, has made his diagnosis and surgery a regular part of Sunday morning worship services at his First Baptist Church in Washington.

For a long time, “a cancer diagnosis was as hush-hush as an HIV/AIDS diagnosis is today,” he said. “I want to let my congregation know that you’re not doomed and you’re not damned if you’re diagnosed with prostate cancer.”

Tucker’s own candor has encouraged openness in others, including one parishioner who asked Tucker to accompany him to an oncology appointment.

“I probably wouldn’t have even known about his diagnosis if he hadn’t come forward to share it with me,” says Tucker, 72. “I’ve found out that a number of men have cancer, but who wouldn’t have told me if I hadn’t first shared my story.”

At last year’s first-ever Father’s Day Rally at Grace Baptist Church in Mount Vernon, N.Y., associate pastor William Mizell praised the men in the pews in their crisp suits and ties — all of them in signature blue, just as pink has come to symbolize breast cancer.

“You look good in your blue today,” Mizell said as he summoned cancer survivors to the front of the church, followed by men “going through” prostate cancer, along with the newly diagnosed and their families.

“I want you to know that you are in the midst of a loving congregation,” Mizell prayed over the men. “We know that there is a balm in Gilead.”

At Bryant Temple AME Church in Los Angeles, the Rev. Clyde W. Oden is encouraging the men in his congregation to share “a code” that may help save their lives: “Brother, do you know your number?” he asks.

The “number” men need to know, Oden said, is derived from a blood test that charts a man’s PSA level, one of the early indicators of prostate cancer. He plans to distribute information on prostate cancer with a small booklet he wrote that chronicles his own faith-based battle with the disease.

“Prostate cancer is so dangerous, if you wait until there are symptoms, it’s usually too late, which is often the case for black men,” Oden said.

Dale Bell, a 13-year prostate cancer survivor and the PHEN coordinator at Mizell’s Grace Baptist Church, said children approached him after last year’s service and said “they were going to make sure that their daddy went to the doctor to be tested.”

“Those are the kinds of responses we want to spark,” he said. “Family members are so critical to this battle.”

Contributed by: B. Denise Hawkins
Religion News Service