More than 100 laity gathered at Mt. Olive A.M.E. in Clearwater, Fla. in March to take part in the West Coast Conference Lay Organization Annual Convention.
The festivities began Friday, March 22 with the Shades of Blue Awards Banquet—a first for the organization. During the ceremony, the keynote speaker, Congolese-native Felicien Kakure, talked the the body about the “Present Age” and all that must be done to keep our youth rooted in the Gospel. After a sumptuous meal topped off with that food for thought, WCCLO leaders presented awards to the hard-working laity who earned their accolades.
Beverly Jordan of Collins St. Mark A.M.E. Church in the St. Petersburg Distict was given the President’s Circle Award for her tireless work in growing her local organization. Shirley Kicklighter Morgan of Greater Mt. Zion A.M.E. Church in the St. Petersburg District received the Community Service Award for outstanding work in the kingdom outside her tabernacle.
For the second year in a row, St. Luke A.M.E. Church of the Tampa District received the Local Lay Organization of the Year Award.
Outgoing President Hugh Yancy Jr., who reached his eight year term limit in March, gave special recognition to persons who have been operating behind the scenes to make his presidency a success. Herbert Williams, Jacqueline Grant, Victoria Edwards and Marian Kinsey. President Yancy also honored each of the people who held office during his tenure with a medal of service.
The night would not have been complete without a salute of President Yancy himself. Steering committee chair and First Vice President Alicia Cotton present Yancy with a service award, a souvenir booklet filled with remembrances of his presidency and a love offering.
West Coast Conference Lay Organization of The African Methodist Episcopal Church 