Category: Jones

Dr. Sherry Jones —

Recent conversations with several groups, about racial reconciliation and the current racial division in the body of Christ have been most insightful. We agreed that the pass two years, almost three, have been more then stressful on everyone. The aftermath of political uncertainty, pandemic deaths, sheltering in place, fractured nation from cultural unrest, and increased violence has left us somewhat numb and more self-centered. The church has not been spared the latter. I have heard from a few pastors that their membership is down 10 to 12% and some people have not returned. We understood that the pandemic cost us much in our spiritual, emotional, and physical lives.

I no longer use the words racial reconciliation but racial healing. We need to be healed and restored in our identity in Christ, obedience to the word of God, and the relentless interdependence and mutual love for our brothers and sisters in Christ. Dietrich Bonhoeffer, in Life Together wrote: “I can no longer condemn or hate a brother for whom I pray, no matter how much trouble he causes me.” Amen!

By Dr. Sherry Jones —

One Church Equipping is a training ministry developed to support the body of Christ in living out our oneness and unity in Christ. Once a month the OCE meets with urban and suburban pastors, church and ministry leaders. Each month we have immersed ourselves in the word of God and sharing our lives and building relationships with each other. We have had times of deep intercessory prayer, thought-provoking discussions, and transparent conversations. In midst of our four hours together we have grown to love the sisters and brothers we have met for the first time. What we all desire is that this movement of love, oneness, and unity will pour out to all believers in Christ in our city and surrounding counties.

By Dr. Sherry Jones —

A few weeks ago Philadelphia Gospel Movement introduce a new prayer initiative Bless Philly 7:14, based on II Chronicles 7:14. We have been asked to set aside 7:14 am and 7:14 pm on our cell phones or watches, to pray for Philadelphia. It has become the most joyous time of prayer for many. People who I have asked about their experience have all expressed the joy they find in the alarm reminder and taking the time to pray. Our expectations are high, as we believe that God hears and will answer. What is so amazing and praiseworthy is the fact many prayer groups and prayer focuses have multiplied in the city as well as outside the city. We are praying to God to Bless Philadelphia with a church walking in unity and oneness, the gospel to be preached and lived, and people are reached with the gospel of Jesus Christ. Will you join us in praying for Philadelphia.

By Dr. Sherry Jones–

I am not a suburban driver. I am a city driver, but love overcame my reluctance. Because of love, early one Sunday morning I drove out to Renew Community in Lansdale, PA,. Because of love, Renew Community Church members are gracious supporters of my ministry in the city. Because of love, the car I was driving was a gift from the church two years ago. The most refreshing thing about their love is the support they have shown and a desire to develop a vital relationship with me.

On that Sunday, I shared with the congregation a recent spiritual struggle I encountered earlier in the year. Many know I have been working in the area of racial reconciliation/healing. I was being called to stop people pleasing as a means to accommodating each ethnic group. Speaking the truth in love must be the goal if we are God’s image bearers. In comparison to knowing Jesus Christ my culture, ethnicity, religious affiliation, and my spiritual experiences are rubbish. Like my brother Apostle Paul in Philippians 3, I want to know Jesus Christ, in and through the power of his resurrection, fellowship of his suffering, and be made conformable to his death. It is in this crucified life that love flows for my brothers and sisters without reservations. It is also in the crucified life racial reconciliation must be practiced in loving kindness and tender mercies. I drove for love.

By Dr. Sherry Jones–

Black Clergy of Philadelphia and Vicinity called a meeting to introduce the new Superintendent of Philadelphia School District, Dr. Tony B. Watlington, Jr. After a heavy breakfast there was time to share with Dr. Watlington what we saw that the school district does well and what the district needs to do better. As expected we wanted to speak more about what the district needs to improve.

Dr Watlington shared his dreams for the district and what he understands as the areas that need much improvement. It was a great exchange of suggestions and ideas. In the audience were pastors, leaders of various ecclesiastical conferences, former judges, principals, teachers, and current state and city political officials.

The meeting ended with promised support from Black Clergy to be involved in supporting Dr. Watlington and staff. What has to happen to see all students receive an excellent and marketable education will take families, clergy, congregations, social agencies, and the marketplace. We must pray that Dr. Watlington has great success and support to reach the district goals.

By Dr. Sherry Jones– I love Philadelphia. This is my city. I really believe it is God’s sovereign will that I was born in this city and to love it. That is why for the last four years I have attended and supported One City, One Love, worship and prayer event. These brothers and sisters meet each summer from across different denominational lines and from the city and suburbs to worship God and give him glory. We come together as the family of God worshiping together our Father God. It is the goal to demonstrate the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace and show our love for each other, as we give all the glory to God.

I Love this city and I love my brothers and sisters in Christ so much more.