Doology

By popular demand...

2012-01-25T20:21:00.000-05:00

Minister Lawrance Lee Evans will continue his analytic collective review of four classic books divided as four chapters :Black Bourgeoisie by E. Franklin Frazier (chapter 1), Miseducation of the Negro by Dr. Carter G. Woodson (chapter 2), Long White Con by Iceberg Slim (chapter 3), and Strength to Love by Dr. Martin Luther King (chapter 4). Minister Evans invites everyone to hear him speak at 4 pm, First Community Interfaith Institute Inc., 219 Hamilton Street, Rochester NY.

Please check out our Ohio chapter website

2012-01-06T14:05:00.000-05:00

Our Ohio chapter, headed under the direction of Minster Lawrance Lee Evans' twin brother Gerald, has a brand new web page. Please visit First Community Interfaith Institute of Ohio at www.fciiohio.org. They also have a Facebook page as well. For information about their activities, especially the upcoming 33rd Festival in July, be sure to regularly visit our Ohio counterpart's web site and "like" FCII of Ohio on Facebook.

Come join us for our annual Dr. Martin Luther King program

2012-01-04T13:23:00.000-05:00

On Dr. King's 83rd birthday, Minister Lawrance Lee Evans will give a collective analytical review of four classic black historical and culutral books, all written by black men:

Black Bourgeoisie by E. Franklin Frazier
The Miseducation of the Negro by Dr. Carter G. Woodson
Long White Con by Iceberg Slim
Strength to Love by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

This special event, which is also a fundraiser for our current Kwanzaa Appeal fundraiser, will take place on Sunday January 15 (doors open at 4 pm), 219 Hamilton Street. Dinner will be served.

Minister Evans speaks at Monroe County Dept of Human Services

2011-12-28T17:47:00.002-05:00

Minister Evans was invited by a good friend and former work colleague, Sister Latonya Wilcox, to be the guest speaker at the Monroe County Department of Human Services' first ever Kwanzaa observance, open only to employees. He was received very well and the program, which included African dance and Brother Carlton Wilcox singing on guitar, was overall excellent. Below is Minister Evans' speech to the social workers in the audience.

Biblical references for First Fruits celebration

2011-12-08T09:14:00.001-05:00

For this year's First Fruits portion of our year end celebration, Minister Lawrance Lee Evans is using the following Old Testament verses as reference material for the daily gatherings:

Exodus 23:16, 23:19 and 23:39
Exodus 22:29
Leviticus 23:10, 23:16. and 23:19
Numbers 18:12
Deuteronomy 26:2

You can ROCtheday for First Community Interfaith Institute in 2 weeks!

2011-11-24T12:00:00.001-05:00

On Thursday, December 8, you will have 24 hours (12 am to 11:59 pm) to make an online donation to First Community Interfaith Institute Inc. (ideally we will be your first choice) through the RoctheDay platform roctheday.org, an effort coordinated by the United Way of Greater Rochester, along with several Rochester area community organizations, to encourage donors in the Rochester NY area (and elsewhere) to give to the 501c3 organization(s) of their choice. The Institute is, as of November 24,, the only black oriented 501c3 registered for ROCtheday. To save time searching for us, our link to donate directly to us is http://roctheday.org/agency/FIRSTCOMMUNITYINTERFAITHINSTITUTEINC.

Thank you in advance.

First Fruits/Kwanzaa schedule for Dec 2011-Jan 1, 2012

2011-11-12T19:20:00.001-05:00

First Community Interfaith Institute Inc. invites the public to our 32 day First Fruits/Kwanzaa schedule of events. Events in bold are the major highlights of the 32 day season.

FIRST FRUITS (DECEMBER 1-DECEMBER 25)

Thursday, December 1: Kwanzaa Appreciation Program, 6 PM, 219 Hamilton Street

Friday, December 2 and Saturday, December 3: Kwanzaa prayer session and candle lighting, 6 pm, 219 Hamilton Street
Sunday, December 4: 4 pm, 219 Hamilton Street (Students Doology Hour, our weekly Sunday service)--also repeats on Dec. 11, 18, 25
Monday, December 5-Saturday, December 10: Kwanzaa prayer session and candle lighting, 6 pm, 219 Hamilton Street
Monday, December 12-Wednesday, December 14: Kwanzaa prayer session and candle lighting, 6 pm, 219 Hamilton Street
Thursday, December 15: African Mothers Day, 6 pm, School #33, 500 Webster Avenue (All females at the program receive a flower)
Friday, December 16-Saturday, December 17: Kwanzaa Prayer session and candle lighting, 6 pm, 219 Hamilton Street
Monday, December 19-Saturday, December 24: Kwanzaa prayer session and candle lighting, 6pm, 219 Hamilton Street

KWANZAA (DECEMBER 26-JANUARY 1)

Monday, December 26: Umoja, 6 PM, 219 Hamilton Street

Tuesday, December 27, Kujichagulia, 6 pm, 219 Hamilton Street

Wednesday, December 28, Ujima, 6 pm, 219 Hamilton Street

Thursday, December 29, Ujamaa, 6 pm, 219 Hamilton Street

Friday, December 30, Nia, 6 pm, 219 Hamilton Street

Saturday, December 31, Kuumba, 6 pm, 219 Hamilton Street

Sunday, January 1, 2012, Imani, 6 pm, St. John's Home, 150 Highland Av (KWANZAA FEAST--Bring dish to pass; also gifts are given, primarily educational, to the children)

Kwanzaa Appeal has begun!

2011-10-06T20:54:00.000-04:00

Our fiscal year began on October 1, and along with that comes our first major fundraiser, the Kwanzaa Appeal. Kwanzaa Appeal began September 25 and ends February 19, 2012. The Kwanzaa Appeal happens simultaneously with our major first and second quarter activities such as the anniversary of the Institute, Kwanzaa/First Fruits, Martin Luther King Jr. birthday and Supporters Day (Black History Month).

November 2 is the anniversary of First Community Interfaith Institute Inc. and the birthday of National Minister Lawrance Lee Evans Sr. Minister Lawrance Lee Evans has asked that all gifts go to First Community Interfaith Institute Inc. Your tax-deductible donations can be made to First Community Interfaith Institute Inc., 219 Hamilton Street, Rochester NY 14620-1112.

More information about the Kwanzaa Appeal can be obtained every Sunday at Students Doology Hour. Doors open at 4 pm. The location is 219 Hamilton Street. Information can also be obtained by calling 585-461-0379.

Thank you if you give First Community Interfaith Institute Inc. NYS five cent cans and bottles. This helps us raise money for our tutorial program. We welcome your bottles and cans.

The Kwanzaa Appeal will help with our annual festival in Ohio on July 12-15, 2012. This year the national office has been asked to play a bigger role.

The Kwanzaa Appeal Organizing Conference will be on October 23, 2011 at First Community Interfaith Institute Inc. Doors open at 4 pm at 219 Hamilton Street.

WHAT: 25TH ANNUAL SYLVESTER AND STACEY JOHNSON MEMORIAL WHEN: SEPTEMBER 25, 2011—DOORS OPEN AT 4 PM WHERE: FIRST COMMUNITY INTERFAITH INSTITUTE INC., 219 HAMILTON STREET, ROCHESTER NY PURPOSES: TO EMPHASIZE HUMAN LIVES, HONEST RECONCILIATION AND TO OFFICIALLY KICKOFF THE KWANZAA APPEAL

2011-09-20T01:20:00.000-04:00

In 1986, at theentrance of Darien Lake Amusement Park, a fatal triple car accident took thelives of Sylvester Johnson, his daughter Stacey and Stephanie Kozak, a friendof Stacey’s. Brian Schollard drove his fire truck into Mr. Johnson’s car. Mr.Schollard was not going to a fire when the fire truck slammed into Mr.Johnson’s car. Consequently, Mr. Schollard was fined ten dollars.

The 25^TH Annual Sylvester and Stacey Johnson Memorialplaces emphasis on human lives and the need for authentic reconciliation. Alsothe 25^TH Annual Sylvester andStacey Johnson Memorial is the kickoff of First Community Interfaith InstituteInc.’s Kwanzaa Appeal. All proceeds will be used to support the Charles RileyTutorial Program and other cultural activities.

On Sunday, September25, 2011 at 4 PM, at 219 Hamilton Street, First Community Interfaith InstituteInc. will sponsor its 25^th Annual Sylvester and Stacey Johnson

Memorial Lecture.First Community Interfaith Institute Inc. will also be remembering

Waddell Ansari(Waddell Johnson), Madam Martha McMiller Jordan, Angela Johnson,

Alphonso McKinney,Hubert A. Walker and Brother Freddie Thomas.

First CommunityInterfaith Institute Inc. is a spiritual and cultural organization plus ateaching church which was formed in 1970 by Minister Lawrance Lee Evans Sr.Minister Evans will give a lecture entitled “Doology: Solving Problems by UtilizingCase Management.”

Minister Evans' retirement benefit was a monumental success!

2011-08-15T16:05:00.000-04:00

Despite being rained out, on August 14 we had a packed house at 219 Hamilton Street as Minister Lawrance Evans' spouse, four of his six children, his six month old grandson, several godchildren, co-workers from his day job at Rochester General Health Systems, former and current students, and other community supporters and friends all came together to pay homage to a man who will be retiring in two weeks from Rochester General Health System. Minister Evans will not be idle; he will devote more time to working to ensure that First Community Interfaith Institute Inc. remain the premier teaching church in Rochester. The pinnacle of the program came when Monroe County Legislator Bauroth presented Minister Evans with a proclamation for all Minister Evans' hard work in the community of Rochester.

When the Change Comes

2011-07-23T15:19:00.000-04:00

On Sunday, August 14, 2011, Minister Lawrance Lee Evans will be celebrating retirement after almost ten years as a case manager/outreach worker for Rochester General Health Systems in Rochester NY. He is inviting the community of Rochester to this major fundraiser at 4 pm on August 14, 219 Hamilton Street. "When the Change Comes" is in the realm of the "Cultural Extravaganza" annual summer events First Community Interfaith Institute Inc. sponsored in the 1980s. If you would like to assist in the planning of Minister Evans' retirement, please email fciirochester@gmail.com. "When the Change Comes" is a fundraiser for our Charles Riley Tutorial Program and the upcoming Kwanzaa activities.

Minister Evans will give a Doology lecture on June 30

2011-06-29T18:38:00.000-04:00

June 30, 2011 6 pm at 219 Hamilton Street, is a fundraiser for the upcoming FCII Festival in Elyria OH. Minister Lawrance Lee Evans will give a lecture on "Doology." Everyone is invited.

Check out the video by Theophil Syslo about our Charles Riley Tutorial Program!

2011-06-29T18:01:00.000-04:00

Recent RIT (Rochester Institute of Technology) graduate Theophil Syslo visited the Institute this past semester and gave our young students disposable cameras to take pictures of things that interest them. Theophil incorporated the drumming and singing from the Sunday Student Doology Hour service with the children's explanations of their photography efforts to come up with an excellent video. The link is:
http://vimeo.com/25035822

Legacy Day on June 5

2011-05-31T20:09:00.001-04:00

Madame Martha Jordan’s legacy will be celebrated on Sunday, June 5, 2011. On that day, First Community Interfaith Institute Inc. will host a special Students Doology Hour Service at 4 pm, 219 Hamilton Street in the SouthWedge section of Rochester. All faiths are invited, especially families. In addition to Students Doology Hour every Sunday, First Community Interfaith Institute also is the home of its renowned Charles Riley Tutorial Program, and the First Fruits/Kwanzaa celebration in December.

On Sunday, June 5, 2011, First Community Interfaith Institute Inc. will celebrate the birthday of the woman who inspired Minister Lawrance Lee Evans to create the only interfaith teaching church in Rochester that is a spiritual and cultural organization. Minister Evans developed a unique organization, First Community Interfaith Institute Inc., in 1970. First Community Interfaith Institute Inc. is also a teaching church that is known for serving and educating for the purposes of empowerment and the development of leadership. First Community Interfaith Institute Inc.does not proselyte but welcomes all faiths.

Legacy Day honors the memory of the late Madame Martha McMiller Jordan (1909-1969), a native of Mississippi who mentored her grandson, Minister Lawrance Lee Evans Sr. Madame Jordan, a resident of Braceville, Ohio, influenced her grandson to the point that at age 13, he came up with the basic tenets of the study of thought called Doology. Minister Evans has combined academic knowledge with the knowledge of the folkways and cultural norms of his ancestors, taught by Madame Jordan. Madame Jordan, a very influential woman in Ohio, knew African-American icons. It was through Madame Jordan that the young Minister Evans was exposed to heroes and sheroes such as Marcus Garvey, Zora Neale Hurston, Marie Laveau, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Howard Thurman, Minister Malcolm X, Queen Nzinga of Angola, Yaa Asantewa of the Asante nation in Africa.

Minister Lawrance Lee Evans Sr., who will be the host of Legacy Day, attended Howard University with a major in civil engineering, graduated with a BS in Business Administration from Youngstown State University (OH) and received his MA from Colgate Rochester Divinity School/Bexley Hall/Crozier Theological Seminary.

We remember Malcolm X (1925-1965)

2011-05-13T14:25:00.002-04:00

First Community Interfaith Institute Inc., located in the SouthWedge, will honor the contributions
of Brother Malcolm X (1925-1965) during the week of May 15-21. Malcolm X would have been
86 years old on May 19.

On Sunday May 15, beginning at 4 pm, Minister Lawrance Lee Evans Sr., the National Minister
of the Institute, will give a lecture on Malcolm X at Students' Doology Hour. During the week,
the Institute will focus on organizing activities and community service. On Saturday May 21, the
Institute invites the community to participate in the bottle campaign fundraiser from 1-3 PM at
219 Hamilton Street. Minister Evans asks interested people to donate their NYS cans and
bottles to help finance its educational programs.

First Community Interfaith Institute Inc., located at 219 Hamilton Street, is a spiritual and cultural
organization plus a teaching church. All activities listed above will be at 219 Hamilton Street.

Our children outdid themselves at the Good Friday of Inspiration and Motivation!

2011-04-24T00:02:00.003-04:00

On Friday 22 April , First Community Interfaith Institute held its first Good Friday program, which was sponsored by 11 year old Tamia Jackson, Minister Evans' protegee. The children read the folktale play "Rabbit and Tiger," did their Reciprocity quotes, and we even learned basic karate from 8 year old Ahmein Parson, Tamia's brother.

Join us for "Good Friday of Inspiration and Motivation"

2011-04-15T15:22:00.000-04:00

Our young students of the Charles Riley Tutorial Program, ranging in age from four to eleven, are working hard to make their program, "Good Friday of Inspiration and Motivation," to take place next Friday 22 April at 7 pm Eastern Time (Good Friday), a success. This is the first time the Institute has had a program on a Good Friday. Please come and support the cihldren as they recite heroes and sheroes of Black History.

We honored the great Sister Siti Akanke!

2011-03-12T21:23:00.000-05:00

On Thursday March 10, on what would have been Sister Siti's 79th birthday, Malik Evans, son of National Minister Lawrance Lee Evans, gave a wonderful tribute to the woman who had an extensive library of black literature in her home. Malik used her library when researching an assignment when he was in college. Malik recalled when Sister Siti would pick him and his siblings from school once a week, providing treats as well. Brother Corey Tanskley, Minister Evans' godson, also knew Sister Siti as a child, and gave a poem dedicated to all the Sister Sitis in our lives--women who dedicated their lives to their families, blood and non blood, and to their organizations. Sister Shiminege, Sister Siti's daughter,during libation, talked about how her mother was hesitant about the Institute and the African clothing worn at the church when she first came across the Institute, but in no time became one of the Institute's best donors and promoters. Ten-year-old Jay Simms Jr. read a passage from Reginald Lewis' autobiography (Lewis was one of Sister Siti's favorites), and her great-granddaughter, eleven-year-old Tamia Jackson, recited a passage from the play For Colored Girls....

Black History Month is here!

2011-02-06T12:21:00.002-05:00

On Sunday February 20 at 4 pm. Minister Lawrance Lee Evans will give his annual Supporters Day address. The title of his lecture is "In Spite of Opposition: What Has and Will Be Done." The lecture will take place at 219 Hamilton Street, Rochester NY.

Suppporters Day is in honor of the later Charles Riley ( February 17, 1958-January 17, 1997), the namesake of First Community Interfaith Institute Inc.'s renowned tutorial program. Brother Charles was not only a student of Minister Lawrance Lee Evans Sr., but he was also a strong supporter of First Community Interfaith Institute Inc.

Charles taught young people at the Institute's tutorial program (formerly called Children's Fashion Hour). He was so dependable that when he joined the ancestors , the tutorial program was renamed the Charles Riley Tutorial Program.

In addition to being a student researcher for his mentor (Minister Lawrance Lee Evans Sr.), he implemented the recycling program so that funds could be generated for the Institute's educational and cultural programs.

Libation will be performed by the Ministry School of Doology, the adult students of Minister Evans. "Reciprocity" will be performed by the youth students of the Charles Riley Tutorial Program; they will recite brief tidbits of black heroes and sheroes, both alive and deceased.

Please come out on February 20 and bring your family!

First Community Interfaith Institute honors MLK on Jan 15

2011-01-10T12:11:00.000-05:00

On Saturday, January 15, 2011 at 7:30 pm, at 219 Hamilton Street in Rochester NY, the National Minister of First Community Interfaith Institute Inc., Minister Lawrance Lee Evans, will give a lecture entitled “Doology Asks for the Real King to Stand Out!”Rev. Dr. King would have been 82 years old this year if he was not assassinated when he was 39 years old.

When a 42 year old seamstress refused to relinquish her bus seat to a white man and was arrested, a bus boycott was called. A young man named Dr. King was elected president to an organization called the Montgomery Improvement Association. The public life of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King was born.

We invite the public to hear Minister Lawrance Lee Evans as he addresses many of the misconceptions about King and the movement. Minister Lawrance Lee Evans, the developer of Doology, founder of First Community Interfaith Institute Inc., and financial supporter of the Charles Riley Tutorial Program, will explain how Dr. King's brief life enabled him to be a “drum major for justice."

Wrap-up of our First Fruits/Kwanzaa

2011-01-03T14:23:00.000-05:00

From discussions during the First Fruits (December 1-25) about humans' interdependence of each other, a beautiful African Mothers Day program at School #33 where we learned about the similarities of harvest celebrations throughout the diaspora, to black history, to finance, to poetry and pizza, to a mini-concert, and concluding with a marvelous feast with songs, libation and good food, First Community Interfaith Institute Inc. once again honored the ancestors and concluded 2010 with more food for thought for the new year 2011. For more videos from our Kwanzaa season, go toyoutube.com/onilah .

Today marks the first day of First Fruits!

2010-12-01T22:51:00.000-05:00

Earlier this evening First Community Interfaith Institute Inc. began the annual 32 day celebration of First Fruits/Kwanzaa. First Fruits, Minister Evans explained, is an African tradition involving the first food harvest that is celebrated all throughout the African continent. In some African cultures, the men celebrate First Fruits separate from the women and in other African cultures both sexes celebrate First Fruits together. First Fruits is also mentioned in the Old Testament. At the conclusion of Minister Evans' story, he instructed the students to look up what is the final organ that is developed in the fetus. The three children in attendance blew the seven candles. At the Institute, First Fruits is celebrated from Dec. 1-25, followed by Kwanzaa from Dec. 26-Jan. 1.

32 day First Fruits/Kwanzaa schedule as observed by the Institute

2010-11-27T17:47:00.000-05:00

In addition to the three major public First Fruits/Kwanzaa events (see November 17 post), we will have daily small prayer/folktale sessions all through December at 219 Hamilton Street. These gatherings are open to the public as well.

FIRST FRUITS

Dec. 1-3, 6-10, 13-14, 16-17, 20-24: 6 pm

Dec. 4, 11, 18, 25: 7 pm

KWANZAA

December 26 (Umoja): 4 pm

December 27 (Kujichagulia): 6 pm

December 28 (Ujima): 6 pm

December 29 (Ujamaa): 6 pm

December 30 (Nia): 6 pm

December 31 (Kuumba) 6 pm

Show some gratitude regardless of your situation!

2010-11-24T14:17:00.000-05:00

At First Community Interfaith Institute Inc. we learn to show and express gratitude for the simplest things. Despite the multiple challenges black people all over the Diaspora have gone through and continue to undergo, there is always room to be grateful for what you do have. This is a clip I happen to run into from the Smiley and West radio show:

First Fruits/Kwanzaa schedule at First Community Interfaith Institute Inc.

2010-11-17T12:49:00.001-05:00

2010 First Fruits/Kwanzaa Schedule

First Fruits is the more traditional African celebration observed in the first 25 days of December, where the students and members of the Institute light candles and tell African or African-American folktales. Our major First Fruits events are:

December 5: Kwanzaa Appreciation Program, 4 pm, 219 Hamilton Street, Rochester NY 14620

December 15: African Mothers Day, 6 pm, 500 Webster Avenue, Rochester NY 14609
January 1, 2011: Kwanzaa Feast (final day of Kwanzaa, known as Imani), 6 pm, 150 Highland Ave, Rochester NY 14620

On December 1, members of the Institute, youth and adults, are to bring a portion of the money they saved during November, Constructive Action Month. On December 15, the women and girls receive a lovely tribute including the presentation of roses by the men.

Family Hour is now Students Doology Hour!

2010-11-16T11:20:00.000-05:00

Since 1970, First Community Interfaith Institute Inc. called its weekly fellowship and worship service "Family Hour," because it was designed for families to spend at least an hour in church together and study God's word. This past year, Minister Evans has noted that the majority of Family Hour attendees do not bring their families to worship, or the families of those who support the Institute do not accompany the active Institute student/supporter. As of October 31, 2010, Minister Evans has changed the name of the Sunday afternoon service from Family Hour to Students Doology Hour. Minister Evans' lessons of giving back and being more aware of our African heritage are primarily geared to his core group of students, but guests and others are still welcome to fellowship and eat with us on Sunday afternoons at 4 pm at 219 Hamilton Street.

Wrap-up of 40th anniversary of First Community Interfaith Institute Inc.

2010-11-08T18:35:00.000-05:00

On October 30, First Community Interfaith Institute Inc. hosted our Ohio chapter for the Minister Lawrance Lee Evans Luncheon. Hosted by Brother Anthony Giordano, the Luncheon featured the Charles Riley Tutorial Program students performing "Reciprocity," their daily ritual honoring important figures in Black history; Minister Evans' adult students performing libation; a review of the financial reports from both the Ohio office and Rochester office, a summary of the 2009-2010 fiscal year programs and activities from both chapters, and a lecture by Minister Evans. We also celebrated the birthdays of Minister Gerald Evans and his granddaughter Afiya Evans.

On November 7, to a packed house, we celebrated Minister Lawrance Evans'' birthday and the Institute's 40th anniversary. Halfway through what is now "Students' Doology Hour," Sister Ester Gliwinski, a long time Institute supporter and family friend of the Evans', gave a dynamic presentation of what First Community Interfaith Institute is all about. She used a box of items donated to our needs corner to describe what the Institute represents: a water bottle to talk about our recycling program, a pack of batteries to represent the never ending work the Ministers Evans do every day; a fluorescent bulb to demonstrate the importance of being up to date on technology; a bottle of white out to show that we learn from mistakes and start over; a magnifying glass to show that students at the Institute learn to examine everything carefully; a bottle of glue to represent how Minister Akilah, Minister Lawrance's wife of 43 years and the Regional Minister, is the glue that has held the Institute together since 1970; a box of graham crackers to represent our healthy eating program; and a box of tissues to show that we are not crybabies at the Institute. Minister Evans had nothing but praise for Sister Gliwinski for the duration of service.

Join us in celebrating First Community Interfaith Institute's 40th anniversary!

2010-10-05T14:36:00.000-04:00

On Saturday, October 30, 2010, First Community Interfaith Institute Inc. will host the Minister Lawrance Lee Evans Luncheon starting at 1 pm at 219 Hamilton Street. Our Ohio chapter, headed by CEO Minister Gerald J. Evans, will be our special guests. All of Minister Lawrance Lee Evans' adult and youth students will be there to pay libation to the ancestors, or give back to the Institute by performing reciprocity. The trustees of the Institute will get together to discuss the past fiscal year activities of the organization as a whole, and set goals for the upcoming fiscal year, which began October 1.

You can be a sponsor by making a financial contribution to First Community Interfaith Institute Inc. Our two sponsors are Brother Anthony Giordano and LLWE Business Services Plus. In addition, we will be celebrating Minister Gerald Evans' birthday three days early.

The 24th Annual Sylvester and Stacey Johnson Memorial Lecture

2010-09-03T16:54:00.000-04:00

On August 30, 1986, a day that was supposed to be an afternoon of fun at Darien Lake Park (NY) for 37 year old Sylvester Johnson, his eight year old daughter Stacey and her friend Stephanie Kozuch, turned into major tragedy. A fire truck ran a red light (it was not going to an emergency; the truck was on standby at the Darien firehall) and slammed into Sylvester's car at the entrance of the park, killing all three passengers in Mr. Johnson's Plymouth sedan. The volunteer fire truck driver, age 21 at the time, survived the accident, and he was eventually fined ten dollars in April 1987 without serving jail time.

Ever since September 1986, Minister Lawrance Lee Evans, with the blessing of the late Sister Siti Akanke, the mother and grandmother of Sylvester and Stacey respectively, has held a memorial to honor the Johnsons and to bring attention to the issues of emergency vehicles running red lights under questionable circumstances. Sister Siti's eldest daughter, Sister Shiminege, the Institute's promoter of the Charles Riley Tutorial Program, is sponsoring this year's memorial , to be held on Sunday, September 12 at 4 pm, at 219 Hamilton Street. All are invited; dinner will be served.

Wrap up of Uhuru Week (Aug 14-15)

2010-08-16T22:33:00.000-04:00

It was a beautiful weekend to celebrate Marcus Garvey's birthday with First Community Interfaith Institute Inc. On August 14, Anthony Giordano served as MC for the rally, and he did an outstanding job promoting the good works of the Institute and Minister Lawrance Lee Evans. Brother Bernard Holmes, who is managed by Minister Evans, gave an outstanding rap to the vocals of 50Cent.

But the grand finale on Sunday the 15th was a treat. Our Charles Riley Tutorial Program , with students ranging in age from 3 to 16, spoke about various heroes and sheroes from black history, and recited from Marcus Garvey's Atlanta prison speech as well. But the big treat was hearing Minister Myra Brown sing songs of praise with her band. Minister Brown was honored by the Institute for her work in obtaining funds for the tutorial program. The sister also received one half of the funds raised by our raffle. Three of the students presented Minister Brown with gifts and a collage. Needless to say, the sister was teary eyed and was very appreciative.

Also, kudos to Sister Shiminege for being an excellent mistress of ceremonies.
Sister Myra, everyone raved about you. Hope you enjoyed your tribute!

Schedule of Uhuru Week Events in honor of Marcus Garvey

2010-07-28T10:14:00.003-04:00

August 11, 12, 13 2010: rehearsal at 5:15 pm, 219 Hamilton Street
poets and singers are welcome to join us for the show on August 14 and August 15

August 14 2010: bottle campaign/yard sale/rehearsal at 1 pm, 219 Hamilton Street

and at 7 pm, 219 Hamilton Street:

ANTHONY GIORDANO PRESENTS

CELEBRATION AND RALLY

speakers, entertainment, music and information

August 15 2010 at 1600 East Avenue

THE GRAND FINALE

by invitation only

DOOLOGY WORKSHOP FEATURING MINISTER LAWRANCE LEE EVANS AND GUEST SOLOIST MINISTER MYRA BROWN

Reception at 3 pm; Program begins at 4 pm

August 16 2010: Doology workshop 5:15 pm at 219 Hamilton Street
August 17 2010: LIBATION TO THE HONORABLE MARCUS GARVEY, 5:15 pm, 219 Hamilton Street

Legacy Day weekend summary

2010-06-05T15:47:00.016-04:00

On Saturday, June 5, Minister Evans primarily addressed his adult students in his Doology workshop. He summarized the nine points of PLATE ANEW (pay, labor, associates, time, effort, attitude, nurture, energy, win). We must associate with people who can provide us with things we need and we can provide them with things they need. We must minimize contact with "toxic" people, or those who cannot serve us beneficially.

On Sunday, June 6, Minister Evans spoke to a packed Family Hour worship service. One point he stressed was that God is the god of the living. Immediately after service, we went outside for the Watoto-Lumumba Dancers performance and the fashion show featuring the young students of the Charles Riley Tutorial Program and Minister Evans' adult students.

Join us in celebrating Legacy Day!

2010-05-26T16:20:00.004-04:00

On the first weekend in June, First Community Interfaith Institute is hosting a 3 day weekend fundraiser for our annual trip to Elyria, OH. June 6 is the birthday of the inspiration behind the Institute, Madame Martha Jordan.

June 4 (Friday) Ice Cream Social with the theme "Steps for children to Succeed" 6pm at 219 Hamilton Street

June 5 (Saturday) Doology workshop/brunch with the theme "Making our Lives Better" 11 am at 219 Hamilton Street

June 6 (Sunday) Family Hour Worship Service with African Fashion Show 4 pm at 219 Hamilton Street. Family Hour from 4-6 pm, followed by "Education is Always in Fashion show beginning at 6 pm

On Malcolm X's birthday...

2010-05-19T15:59:00.001-04:00

Malcolm X was, among other things, an organizer. He did what he could to make his community a better place.Malcolm did not betray his people. Minister Lawrance Evans had met with Malcolm X at least once and uses Doology to make his community of Rochester NY a better place. Take a moment to read or listen or watch one of Brother Malcolm's speeches.

Join us in celebrating Malcolm X's birthday

2010-05-11T08:24:00.004-04:00

Sunday May 16 at 4 pm, First Community Interfaith Institute Inc. will be hosting its annual tribute to Brother Malcolm X. Our special Family Hour in honor of Malcolm X will take place at 219 Hamilton Street, Rochester NY.

Sister Siti Remembrance, March 14, 2010

2010-03-16T11:52:00.002-04:00

Happy birthday Sister Siti!

2010-03-10T09:31:00.001-05:00

First Community Interfaith Institute Inc. will be honoring the memory of Sister Siti Akanke on Sunday, March 14 at 4 pm, 219 Hamilton Street. For all those who knew and loved our Queen Mother, you don't want to miss this special Family Hour Worship Service.

Supporters Day 2010

2010-02-18T14:25:00.001-05:00

On what would have been Brother Charles Riley's 52nd birthday, Minister Lawrance Evans praised him for his intelligence and insight on the benefits of First Community Interfaith Institute. He performed his responsibilities more on a member basis than a supporter. He never applied to be a member. He realized early on during his almost 20 year affiliation with the Institute that time is more important than money. A quiet warrior who was a devoted volunteer tutor, he is credited for two of our current fundraisers: our penny drive and our bottle campaign.

Black History Month

2010-02-10T12:51:00.001-05:00

We invite you to celebrate Black History Month on Wednesday, February 17 at 6 pm. "Supporters Day," in honor of the late Charles Riley, the namesake of our tutoring program, will be held at 219 Hamilton Street.

Come to Family Hour this Sunday for an alternative viewpoint!

2010-01-28T08:48:00.003-05:00

Minister Lawrance Lee Evans Sr. has taught many of the leaders who oppose “mayoral control” of the Rochester City School District. On Sunday, Minister Evans will address some of those leaders, as well as his future leaders, at 4 pm at 219 Hamilton Street.

Minister Evans will speak to the rambling nature of “Mayoral Control.” He will dissect the infantile philosophy of “Mayoral Control” into its feudalistic elements. Minister Evans will

speak on PREVARICATION OF MAYORAL CONTROL this Sunday, 4 pm, 219 Hamilton Street.

Minister Lawrance Lee Evans Sr. is a teacher of citizenship, cooperative capitalism, religious tolerance, empowerment and education. He trains leaders by his philosophy called Doology.

Celebrate Dr.King's birthday!

2010-01-18T16:43:00.005-05:00

To a capacity audience, Minister Lawrance Lee Evans Sr. gave the initial installment of "The Mainstream Media: A Betrayal or Portrayal of Dr. King's Leadership" on the 81st birthday of Dr. Martin Luther King. Minister Evans stressed that the mainstream media operates primarily from a business model, meaning that they primarily promote negative events to make a profit. The Northern news organizations promoted Dr. King positively, while the Southern news organizations would sell papers to appeal to their anti-King readers.

The Mainstream Media: A Betrayal or Portrayal of Dr. King’s Leadership”

2010-01-14T08:59:00.003-05:00

Minister Lawrance Lee Evans will speak on January 15, 2010 on the 81st birthday of Dr. King, 6 pm, 219 Hamilton Street. He will discuss the mainstream media's relationship with Dr. King. The program will include libation to our heroes and sheroes who are among the ancestors. We invite the whole community to be a part of this great celebration.

Summary of our final seven days of Kwanzaa

2010-01-02T20:01:00.005-05:00

From the birthday celebration of supporter Anthony Giordano ("Mr. G"), to a powerful tribute to Minister Evans' mentor (his grandmother) on the 40th anniversary of her passing, from financial education to a spoken word tribute on Nia, from a presentation on legal scholars to the wonderful feast on Imani, First Community Interfaith Institute Inc. concluded another Kwanzaa season with a bang! What more is there to say! Enjoy the video and the pictures.

African Mothers Day celebration was beautiful!

2009-12-18T21:52:00.003-05:00

This year's African Mothers Day celebration, the highlight of First Fruits, was 100 times better than last year. Despite the snow storm, we had an awesome, diverse audience. Every woman, young or old, received a rose. The children from the Charles Riley Tutorial Program practiced reciprocity by donating change to the bowl. The Watoto-Lumumba Dancers recited the 'Parable of the Eagle.' The children told folk tales and blew the candles at the end of the program. Kudos to long time Institute supporter Ester Gliwinski for hosting African Mothers Day at the new and improved School #33 on Webster Avenue.

First Fruits/Kwanzaa schedule at First Community Interfaith Institute Inc.

2009-12-01T09:28:00.001-05:00

Today is the first day of traditional First Fruits. First Fruits last until December 26, when we at the Institute celebrate Dr. Karenga's version of Kwanzaa. This is the schedule as of December 1 of our 32 day programs and activities. Please bring your families to as many of these events as possible.
Dec. 1: KWANZAA APPRECIATION PROGRAM 6pm at 219 Hamilton Street--donation collected and a brief introduction on the importance of Kwanzaa and First Fruits
Dec. 2-5, 7-12, 14, 16-19, 21-25: 6 pm at 219 Hamilton Street, where we honor our ancestors with a libation, say prayers and the young people blow candles
Dec. 6, 13, 20: Family Hour from 4- 6 pm, followed by libation and prayer
Dec. 15: AFRICAN MOTHERS DAY-- all women and girls receive flowers to represent their cultural and historical role as the mothers and teachers of all the children in the community, 6 pm at School #33, 500 Webster Av, Rochester NY
Dec. 26: Umoja 6 PM at 219 Hamilton Street
Dec. 27: Kujichagulia 4-6 pm at 219 Hamilton Street
Dec. 28: Ujima 6 pm at 219 Hamilton St
Dec. 29: Ujamaa--6 pm at 219 Hamilton St
Dec. 30: Nia-6 pm at 219 Hamilton St
Dec. 31: Kuumba -- 6 pm at 219 Hamilton
Jan. 1, 2010: Imani--6 pm at 150 Highland Ave (St John's Home)

First Fruits/Kwanzaa season is upon us!

2009-11-29T11:34:00.002-05:00

First Community Interfaith Institute Inc. will open its First Fruits/Kwanzaa celebration on Tuesday, December 1, 2009 (6 PM) in a public open ceremony at 219 Hamilton Street. The events, activities and workshops about First Fruits/Kwanzaa will be at the headquarters of First Community Interfaith Institute Inc. each evening for the month of December at 6 pm. The only exceptions will be:
The African Mothers Day celebration, which will be held at School No. 33, 500 Webster Avenue, on December 15, 2009 and
The Kwanzaa Feast, which will be held at St. John's Home, 150 Highland Avenue on January 1, 2010

A wonderful weekend of celebrating Doology!

2009-11-03T14:50:00.003-05:00

From October 31 to November 2, the members and supporters of First Community Interfaith Institute Inc. celebrated Doology as part of the 39th anniversary of the Institute. On Saturday October 31, we sang an early Happy Birthday to Minister Gerald Evans, before the trustee meeting. Our get together with our Ohio chapter was too short, however.

Sunday morning, November 1, we were treated to an excellent Doology workshop. According to Minister Lawrance Lee Evans, most people are selfish by nature and not very giving. When people get training, they often become extremely giving. Doology tries to balance between selfishness and altruism. Once a person uses Doology in their everyday living, he or she is able to develop self first and his/her community second. Doology also helps you to utilize your time constructively. Doology also improves your social skills.

Minister Evans developed Doology when he was thirteen years old, based on the informal lessons from his mentor and grandmother, Madame Martha Jordan.

At the November 2 lecture, Minister Evans stressed that people make things happen. Because of his grandmother's involvement with the struggle, she was very influential in exposing young Minister Evans to the prominent black leaders of the 1960s. Minister Evans was able to talk to them face to face. Minister Evans recounted about his many attempts to get black churches in Rochester to set up tutorial programs in the 1970s, but he was turned down by all of them; thus he formed his own at First Community Interfaith Institute Inc.

3 Day weekend celebration of the 39th Anniversary of the Institute and Ministers Gerald and Lawrance Evans

2009-10-04T21:59:00.003-04:00

First Community Interfaith Institute Inc. invites you to the three day celebration/fundraiser of the 39th anniversary of First Community Interfaith Institute Inc. and the birthday of Ministers Lawrance and Gerald Evans:

Saturday 31 October: annual trustee meeting of the First Community Interfaith Institute Board of Trustees, 12pm, 219 Hamilton Street, Rochester NY, followed by field work and dinner

Sunday, 01 November: Doology workshop 10 am, special Family Hour Worship Service 4 pm, both at 219 Hamilton Street

Monday, 02 November: birthday of twin ministers Gerald and Lawrance Evans, special lecture starting at 6:30 pm, 219 Hamilton Street

Doology Workshop on Aug 23

2009-08-28T17:40:00.002-04:00

Minister Evans summarized the main points of PLATE ANEW, one of the tenets of Doology:

PAY: you must pay for what you need and want--how valuable is what you need and want?
LABOR: you must labor for what you want
ASSOCIATE: you must associate with other people with similar values- you need to deal with people more than on a social level
TIME: our most wasted resource
EFFORT: related to ATTITUDE (See below)

ATTITUDE: what you think about a particular issue
NURTURE: you must nurture the right things, as well as yourself
ENERGY: life is about energy; we must focus on what is important
WIN: we must be successful by winning

Services offered at First Community Interfaith Institute Inc.

2009-08-15T16:25:00.001-04:00

Mentorship--Ministry School of Doology
Tutoring--Charles Riley Tutorial Program
Case management
Recycling program--cans and bottles
Adult tutorial program
Funerals, African weddings, and event organizing
AAFRO Festival in Elyria, Ohio
Advocacy and organization
Political education
Doology cards
Lowest price, highest quality baked goods

The 30TH Annual FCII Festival 2009 was a success!

2009-07-31T21:45:00.002-04:00

The 30th Annual AAFRO Festival, renamed the FCII Festival and Trade Show, was one of the highlights of the year for this blogger. The theme was "Unity in the Community--It is Your Turn!" For the opening day (July 9), Minister Gerald Evans had some participants walk down Cleveland Street in an effort to familiarize us with the local businesses . On July 10, we spent the day at Lorain County Community College for the morning trade show, in which local agencies and businesses promoted themselves, followed by lunch, workshops, and the Elizabeth Coleman dinner, in which various organizations and individuals from Elyria/Lorain area were presented awards for their support of the festival. On July 11, we had Family Unity Community Day at Lorain County Community College which featured recreation. Although we were unable to be outside due to heavy rain, we enjoyed ourselves. In the afternoon there were more workshops, including one about the 2010 census and one about politics.

Minister Lawrance Lee Evans was the keynote speaker at the Martha Jordan Dinner. On Sunday July 12 we had church service outdoors at the Kanisa House, with Minister Akilah Ife Evans as the speaker. The festival came to an all too early end for everyone, and we all anticpate a bigger and better FCII festivakl in 2010. Kudos to Minister Gerald Evans for his outstanding work!

Schedule of events for the 30th Annual AAFRO Festival and Trade Show

2009-06-17T21:11:00.008-04:00

On July 9-12, First Community Interfaith Institute of Ohio will once again host the 30th Annual AAFRO (African Americans for the Respect of Others)Festival and Trade Show in Elyria, Ohio. Hotel accomodations have yet to be finalized, but here is the complete schedule of events for the four day weekend:

Thursday July 9
8 am: Prefestival meeting-- Kanisa House, 142 Cleveland St, Elyria
1-3 pm: Opening celebration
6-8 pm: Lucy Battle "Unity in the Community Day"--Kanisa House

Friday July 10
9 am: Trade Show--Lorain County Community College, Spitzer Center
12 pm: Trade Show Luncheon--LCCC, Spitzer Center
1:30 pm: Trade Show workshops--LCCC, Spitzer Center
6 pm: Elizabeth Coleman Dinner--LCCC, Spitzer Center (awards presentation and entertainment)

Saturday July 11
9 am: Ruth Hamilton "Family Unity Community Day-- LCCC, Ewing Center (recreation)
12 pm: Ruth Hamilton Luncheon--LCCC, Spitzer Center
1:30 pm: Workshops-- LCCC, Spitzer Center
6 pm-- Martha Jordan Dinner-- LCCC, Spitzer Center (Minister Lawrance Lee Evans is keynote speaker)

Sunday July 12
9-11 am: Gladys Evans activities and Family Worship Hour--Kanisa House

For more information, contact Minister Gerald Evans at FCIIOHIO@aol.com.

Lorain County Community College: http://www.lorainccc.edu/

7/2/09: Update: Accomodations for the AAFRO Festival: Comfort Inn Elyria, 739 Leona St

Malcolm X observation

2009-05-20T08:35:00.002-04:00

On this special Family Hour commemorating the 84th birthday of Brother Malcolm X, Minister Evans noted that black people either like or dislike Malcolm X. We can disagree with a leader's tactics, but we must analyze the total picture in terms of the leader's organizing. In his final days, Malcolm was trying to organize a nationalist power base, but he had little help. His team was waiting for direction while he was out of the country traveling. We let Malcolm die because of our lack of organization. We cannot organize when we are complaining and not performing a self analysis of ourselves. Part of our problem is that we fall in the self-inferiority complex--we allow others to intimidate us. We must encourage intelligent people to be intelligent and teach our young people to organize.

Doology: Prevention of Hopelessness and Homelessness

2009-05-06T12:33:00.001-04:00

The first annual "Doology: Prevention of Hopelessness and Homelessness" was a major success! With an attendance of over 100 adults and children, the program featured gospel singing, African dance, award presentations, and a vocal tribute to the late singer Odetta.

Minister Lawrance Lee Evans gave award certificates to the House of Mercy, an organization in northeast Rochester that provides food and temporary housing to people in need; Brother Darryl Porter, a longtime supporter of the Institute, now special assistant to Rochester mayor Robert Duffy; and Sister Ester Gliwinski, a teacher in the Rochester City School District who regularly donates supplies to the Charles Riley Tutorial Program.

Minister Evans encouraged the audience to give back to those who helped them.

Now it is My Time!

2009-04-29T09:49:00.001-04:00

Minister Evans pointed out that too often, we often use shortcuts to avoid hard work. When we use shortcuts in this manner, we do not achieve positive outcomes. We must demand that the people in our circle use their intellectual abilities. We must also demand that the same people in our circle do all they can to improve the community. Parents who engage in negative behavior can involve their child in something positive to offset the parent's negative influence.

Please join us this Sunday at St. John's Home, 150 Highland Ave,5 pm, for the special Doology: Prevention of Hopelessness and Homelessness. Minister Evans will be the keynote speaker for this awareness program that will help some of our supporters with housing issues and promote the Charles Riley Tutorial Program. Entertainment and food will be provided.

The Meaning of Resurrection

2009-04-15T23:29:00.001-04:00

Minister Evans stressed that the concept of Easter or resurrection is related to First Fruits. You can always start over. People who do not believe in resurrection too often hang with negative people. Antisocial behavior keeps people from being productive. The Meaning of Resurrection is all about relationships. If you have a nasty personality, you will have few positive relationships, if at all.

Please come to Family Hour this Sunday (April 19) as Minister Lawrance Lee Evans presents a new topic, "Now It's My Time!"

Doology: How to Read People

2009-04-01T22:52:00.001-04:00

Minister Lawrance Lee Evans gave the following pointers on how to read people:
1. we must do a self-critique of ourselves--in other words, read yourself first (look at yourself) first
2. listen to people of all ages talk--you can learn from anyone and everyone, from the youth to the elders
3. never look down on people
4. know your self-importance
5. always treat people fairly

We need to learn from sick people-- they often contribute more to society despite tremendous odds because they understand their reality and they have a greater understanding and care deeply about others.

How you spend your time and who you associate with tells a lot about you.

The Struggle is Not For Crybabies, parts two and three

2009-03-16T20:46:00.001-04:00

On March 8, Minister Evans used the story of Jesus walking on water (Biblical reference of Matthew 15) to compare the fear of Jesus' disciples to our modern day fear of handling our personal issues.The opposite sexes cannot use each other as an excuse not to take care of business. Minister Evans used the late Sister Siti Akanke as an example of a woman who took care of home and the Institute. Three months before she joined the ancestors, she donated $3000 to the Institute. From 1979 when she came to the Institute to 2005 when she passed, Sister Siti was committed to the liberation struggle and was a devoted student of Doology. We must confront our problems using Doology.

On March 15, Minister Evans noted that God put us on earth to make things better. Our goal is to make the world better using our God given skills and talents. We owe so much to the ancestors when we are born. Minister Evans used personal examples of people who he had helped over the years at the Institute who used various "excuses" not to give back to the Institute once they got the assistance they needed. We must show gratitude when people help you.

The Struggle is not for Crybabies

2009-03-05T16:47:00.002-05:00

Adults must be able to communicate to each other by not crying. Using Jesus' disciples as an example, Minister Evans noted that too often we cry to the wrong people, instead of seeking the proper help. Our heroes and sheroes (e.g., Carter G. Woodson, Harriet Tubman, Mary McLeod Bethune, Booker T. Washington) were not crybabies, Minister Evans stressed. When they found themselves in a difficult situation, they went on ahead with whatever resources they had and worked to the best of their ability. Crying does not solve your problems. A crybaby mentality prevents us from being involved in organizations. You must spend time with positive people in the community to counteract the negative people in the community.

Reader, you are invited to celebrate the Week of Remembrance in Honor of Sister Siti Akanke from May 8-14.

Doology: Time for Romance and Finance part 4

2009-02-26T22:00:00.001-05:00

Using the Biblical reference of Luke 15:8-9, Minister Evans stressed that you must possess knowledge in order to find anything. We must turn on the light-- we must look at ourselves and focus on ourselves before we look at other people. We must be serious about romance and finance. We must study from books and read people. When we come across a human snake, we must keep a distance from such people to minimize confusion and minimize conflicts.

Wrapup of Supporters Day: Doology-Time for Romance and Finance part 3

2009-02-19T17:22:00.001-05:00

Paying tribute to dear friend and long time Institute supporter/builder Charles Riley, who joined the ancestors in January 1997, Minister Evans praised Brother Charles' many talents and contributions to the Institute. According to Minister Evans, Brother Charles understood his priorities. He always bought things the Institute needed when he did his personal shopping. He always asked the Minister if he could donate additional funds when the Institute was in need of something urgent. Brother Charles began as a servant to Minister Evans and gradually became a friend of Minister Evans.

Minister Evans summarized two main points from the last two Sundays: romance is unconditional love, and finance is the ability to manage a medium of exchange. People are our greatest resources, Minister Evans concluded.

Doology: Time for Romance and Finance part two

2009-02-09T17:04:00.002-05:00

Minister Evans stated that finance is how a person manages his/her resources. When a person manages his/her business well, everything will fall in place. People who handle their finances successfully recognize the importance of good people in their lives. Women were the first timekeepers.

If you love someone, noted Minister Evans toward the end of service, you treat him/her with respect and don't pimp him/her.

Doology: Time to Understand Finance and Romance

2009-02-01T22:27:00.003-05:00

The primary message given by Minister Lawrance Evans to kickoff Black History Month was that the biggest problem facing our people is time. Time is greater than people and money. Being a friend is greater than being a servant. A true friend brings harmony to confusion. The Biblical reference is Luke 15:8-9.

By popular demand...

2009-01-21T18:51:00.002-05:00

Despite frigid temperatures and NFL playoff games this past Sunday (18 January), we experienced a large turnout for the continuation of Minister Evans' lecture, "Great Leaders are Needed, Recognized or Not." The basis of the lecture was in celebration of Dr. Martin Luther King's 80th birthday. We invite everyone to attend the lecture this Sunday at 4 pm, 219 Hamilton Street. You will understand what true leadership is all about.

Great Leaders are Needed, Recognized or Not!

2009-01-16T18:15:00.003-05:00

Yesterday (Jan. 15) was Dr. Martin Luther King's 80th birthday. First Community Interfaith Institute Inc. honored Dr. King with a program that featured a display of King books and audio, the children in the tutorial program read books about King, while the adults did a crossword puzzle. The highlight of the evening was a lecture by Minister Evans titled "Great Leaders are Needed,Recognized or Not." The main point Minister Evans stressed during the presentation was that leadership is not about giving orders or directing others. Great leaders such as King, Garvey and Malcolm X were successful because they followed their own orders, performed tasks that they asked their supporters to carry out, and aligned themselves with people who knew more than they did. Great leaders must be able to lead themselves before they lead others. In spite of bone chilling temperatures, Minister Evans spoke to a packed house.

Kuumba and Imani

2009-01-05T13:51:00.004-05:00

On December 31, the young people along with some of the adults, made red,black and green decorations from construction paper and pipe cleaners. Eleven-year-old India Sizer, daughter of sponsor Sonya Sizer, read an African folktale.

The finale of the First Fruits/Kwanzaa celebration (January 1, 2009) had at least 200 people enjoying the feast. Bishop Herman Dailey, Minister James Muhammad and Rev. Norman Roberts gave invocations to a truly interfaith, diverse audience. Jews, Muslims, Christians, Buddhists, etc. attended. All colors within God’s creation came and participated.

Minister Akilah and Sister Shiminege did a great job in working with the organizer, Minister Lawrance Lee Evans. They made sure that all participants enjoy themselves. A special award was given to Bishop Herman Dailey for his outstanding work with the Outreach Community Center.

Brother Corey Tanksley gave a poem that made his godparents very proud. He did something that few people do. He said that he was a graduate of the Charles Riley Tutorial Program.

Sister Elizabeth Cooper played a special tribute to Odetta.

Gifts were given to participants by J & J Wholesale Plus, and books were given to the children of the Charles Riley Tutorial Program by Commissioner Malik Evans.

The transitioning from First Fruits to Kwanzaa celebration was made possible by Sister Ester Gliwinski, who coordinated African Mothers Day. Minister Lawrance Lee Evans Sr. organized the First Fruits/Kwanzaa celebration. The developer of Doology had the celebration at many other locations. Although the finale was the Kwanzaa Feast, he will be doing a Kwanzaa demonstration along with Minister Akilah in January. Call 585.461.0379 for more information.

Ujaama and Nia

2008-12-31T19:45:00.003-05:00

On December 29, we honored Ujaama by discussing the importance of supporting black owned businesses, especially after the news of the brother from NYC who died on Black Friday at the Long Island Wal-Mart. At the Institute we have two members who are sole practitioners. The blogger of Doology is also the owner of LLWE Business Services Plus, and the audience learned a great deal about what is on a W-2 and the complexities of the EITC (Earned Income Tax Credit).

On December 30 (Nia), Brother Chris Powell gave a presentation on important black educators such as John Hope Franklin, Mary McLeod Bethune and Dr. Ralph Bunche. Brother Zeb Coleman talked about his primary role at the Institute, which is to sell the Black Koptic Press Release, our official print publication which is managed by Minister Evans.

Kujichagulia and Ujima

2008-12-29T14:12:00.004-05:00

At the Kujichagulia observance at Brother and Sister Simms' home on the evening of Dec. 27, the young people in the Charles Riley Tutorial Program recited the 'Parable of the Eagle.' Brother Simms showed the audience his autographed copy of Dr. Karenga's book. Dr. Karenga spoke at the Rochester Institute of Technology in 2003 and Brother Simms recalled his conversation with Dr. Karenga. Brother Simms gave homage to Minister Evans and Minister Dailey from the Outreach Community Center. Ministers Lawrance and Akilah Evans spoke about the importance of Kujichagulia also.

On December 28, both ministers told folktales pertaining to Ujima. Ujima, according to Minister Lawrance Evans, involves doing the right thing.

Umoja

2008-12-27T18:27:00.004-05:00

On December 26, First Community Interfaith Institute Inc. transitioned from First Fruits to Dr. Karenga's 7 day Kwanzaa celebration. Fifteen year old Jazzmin Kamau, Minister Evans' protegee, opened the ceremony by discussing what Umoja means and had her four students from the sophomore class, ranging in age from 4 to 9, name the flags from some of the African countries. Brother Brian Griffin gave a presentation on Sojourner Truth, and Brother Clinton Moore read as well. Minister Evans continued his lesson on the etymology of the concepts of "crab in the barrel" and "hipster/hippie," which all came from Africa.

African Mothers Day at School #33 was a success!

2008-12-18T11:52:00.003-05:00

On Monday evening (December 15), the halfway point of our First Fruits season, First Community Interfaith Institute hosted a wonderful African Mother's Day celebration at School #33, hosted by long time Institute supporter and friend Ester Gliwinski. Two of Rochester's greatest nationalists, Dr. David Anderson (Sankofa) and Dr. John Walker gave us African folktales. The Institute's Cultural Renaissance Singers and the Watoto-Lumumba Dancers performed. Sister Renee Vick (pictured above with husband Joseph) was the subject of a special tribute for her work with prisoners and her overall community work. The program concluded with the men in the audience presenting all the women with a red carnation.

First Community Interfaith Institute performs libation at the University of Rochester

2008-12-08T14:36:00.003-05:00

On Friday, December 5, First Community Interfaith Institute Inc. went on a field trip to the University of Rochester for the Black Student Union annual Kwanzaa celebration, whose theme was "Embracing Love, Fellowship and Family." Minister Evans, along with some of the adult members/supporters and children in the tutorial program, performed a libation honoring some of our heroes and sheroes who have joined the ancestors.Minister Evans gave a brief lecture as well. There were also some excellent UR student performers as well, such as Sister Ashley Anderson, who performed a solo dance number. Everyone enjoyed themselves and people in the audience were particularly impressed with the children, who drummed during the libation.

First Fruits began on Dec. 1!

2008-12-04T19:34:00.002-05:00

On December 1, First Community Interfaith Institute Inc. kicked off its 32 day First Fruits/Kwanzaa season with the Kwanzaa Appreciation Program. In the month of November (Constructive Action Month), the members and students were encouraged to just purchase essential (must-have) items. On December 1, we donated a portion of the money we saved by avoiding non-essential items/services to the Institute. Minister Evans and the adults did libation where we honored heroes and sheroes from the diaspora. The children blew the candles.

PLATE ANEW, part 2

2008-11-26T11:44:00.004-05:00

The "L" in PLATE ANEW is labor. Doology puts labor in its proper perspective. The witchcraft makers have used its white shadow's manifestation to make us believe that when we take a "siesta" (rest or nap after lunch) from our labor for ourselves is the same as when we go on "vacation"(interval of time devoted to rest from working for others.

Doology sees siesta and vacation in terms of when labor promotes our development and vacation as a rest from developing other people's development. Siesta and vacation put labor in a perspective of who benefits from our labor and what is done with our labor.

Labor is physical or mental work. In Western or European economic theory, labor is the human resource. For example, when you apply for a job, your first contact is the human resources department.

Africans in the diaspora have always used a large expenditure of labor in comparison to capital. In fact, for many years, we were "capital labor " (i.e. slaves). We were money to be uses by others as they saw fit and other labor as others demanded and commanded.

Siesta was not allowed and vacation was given at the convenience of the master/boss. Doology says that we must use our physical or mental abilities to build power for our people. We can take a siesta when we desire and when we are on their designated "vacation," we can labor for ourselves. Labor must be more than just to obtain material "playthings."

Historically, the mental destruction that has existed in the African diaspora has allowed us to see others' labor as being valuable and our labor for ourselves to be not valuable at all.

We must convert our love to labor for others into a love to labor for ourselves.

PLATE ANEW, part 1

2008-11-14T16:32:00.004-05:00

We will begin to break down the nine parts of PLATE ANEW, an important concept in Doology.

According to Minister Lawrance Lee Evans Sr., we must overcome obstacles or opposition by looking for those who will help to include us in success. However, we must first include ourselves by having an understanding of PLATE ANEW. PLATE ANEW is about neutralizing the white shadow and the witchcraft makers in our minds.

"P" is for PAY
We must PAY for our freedom. Doology makes the point that freedom must be financed by our money choices. We PAY for the choices we make. Money is not just material, it is also spiritual. Money is a medium of exchange. Doology makes us understand that the media (TV, print, radio, etc. will not advertise our successes. We must understand our medium of exchange and must PAY for the way in which we are portrayed in the media. We must pay for the right to have a mental image of our God, our culture and our people's God. Just like we pay for things, we must pay for ideals, causes and principles.

Doology workshop on November 2

2008-11-11T17:25:00.002-05:00

In Doology, Minister Evans uses the phrase 'PLATE ANEW' to describe seven important aspects of being proactive and serving your community. P is for "pay", L is for "labor", A is for "associate", T is for "time," E is for "effort", A is for "attitude," N is for "Nurture", E is for "energy," and W is for "win." These concepts will be discussed in further detail in the weeks ahead.

YES WE CAN! A SHINING EXAMPLE OF DOOLOGY

2008-11-05T22:39:00.003-05:00

We salute you, President Obama and your beautiful family. We will be praying for you. Keep on doing you!

A wonderful weekend at the Institute

2008-10-28T10:59:00.003-04:00

On Saturday, October 25, our Ohio chapter, headed by Minister Gerald J. Evans (Minister Lawrance Evans' brother)came to Rochester for the annual trustee meeting/open house. We ate, socialized and learned about the possible changes for the 30th AAFRO Festival in July 2009 in terms of participation and fund raising requirements. The trustees reviewed the past fiscal year financial statements from both the national (Rochester) and Ohio offices.

On Sunday, October 26, Minister Lawrance Evans stressed the importance of using our gifts or talents to build or use for positive purposes. We must be impressed with what a person does with what (s)he has, not just what (s)he says or wears.

Don't forget the Doology workshop this Sunday (Nov 2) at 11 am, 219 Hamilton Street, Rochester NY and the Doology lecture at 4 pm Nov 2, 219 Hamilton Street. The workshop is geared towards doers and the lecture is geared toward followers.

Family Hour on October 19

2008-10-21T20:56:00.003-04:00

Minister Lawrance Lee Evans Sr. noted that in order to hold other people accountable, you must hold yourself accountable first. Sometimes we place money as more important than people or time. In order to make changes in your life and your immediate environment, you must be active and not passive. Things do not happen if you do nothing.

Family Hour on October 12

2008-10-13T22:56:00.002-04:00

Minister Akilah stressed that without the 4 Ts: tenacity, talent, time and talent, you will never be successful. Minister Lawrance Lee Evans re-emphasized the importance of studying people and studying from books. Being a child of God is the highest calling.

Charles Riley Tutorial Program sells our church newsletter

2008-10-11T20:55:00.002-04:00

Yesterday (10 October 2008), Minister Lawrance Evans, accompanied by some of our adult volunteer tutors, took some of the children in the tutorial program to sell our official publication, the Black Koptic Press Release. We walked one block over to South Avenue and Alexander Street, which is a busy intersection. The childen overall were very enthusiastic and sold quite a few newsletters. Minister Evans was pleased of the young people's efforts and noted that the children need to learn how to sell.

CALL FOR PARTICIPATION THAT PRODUCES ACTION—DOOLOGY

2008-10-08T22:03:00.003-04:00

First Community Interfaith Institute Inc. invites you to join students of Minister Lawrance Lee Evans St. to activities on November 2, 2008 at the First Community Interfaith Institute Inc., 219 Hamilton Street.

As an organizer, case manager, educator, and minister, Minister Evans will demonstrate in a workshop at 11:00 AM and a lecture at 4:00 PM how he uses a discipline known as Doology to help him improve people's lives and coping skills.

First Community Interfaith Institute Inc. is a spiritual and cultural organization plus a teaching church. Participants to the workshop and lecture will learn key communication strategies and what attitudes are needed to improve the community.

The workshop includes a continental breakfast and the lecture includes a dinner.

The purposes of the workshop and lecture are: (1) to give strategies for self-empowerment; (2) to increase community awareness about self-motivation; (3) to show how the community benefits from mutual respect and; (4) to promote cultural competence.

For more information call Minister Akilah Ife Evans at 585.461.0379 or 585.442.8712.

All funds that are raised will go to the Charles Riley Tutorial Program and the promotion of Kwanzaa activities.

NOTE: November 2 is the 38^th anniversary of First Community Interfaith Institute Inc. and the birthday of Minister Lawrance Lee Evans.

First Fruits/Kwanzaa 2008 schedule of events

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Please visit our official web site, First Community Interfaith Institute Inc. for the complete First Fruits/Kwanzaa schedule. Three key events are:

December 1, 2008: Kwanzaa Appreciation Program kicks off the 25 day First Fruits traditional Kwanzaa celebration.It begins at4:40 pm at 219 Hamilton Street, Rochester NY. We explain what First Fruits is, tell stories and say prayers and the young children in attendance blow the seven candles from the Kinara
December 15, 2008: African Mothers Day, in which we honor all females, young and old, with flowers, as a toke of appreciation for their contributions as mothers and teachers. It takes place at 6 pm at School #33, 690 St. Paul Street, Rochester NY.
January 1, 2009: Kwanzaa feast is the finale of the aforementioned First Fruits and the more popular 7 day Kwanzaa observation. We bring a dish of delicious food to pass, say thanks to God for bringing us a new year, and exchange gifts. This beautiful event will be at St. John's Home Auditorium, 150 Highland Avenue, Rochester NY.

Family Hour on Sept 28

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Ministers Lawrance and Akilah Evans thanked everyone for celebrating Minister Akilah's birthday the previous week and for celebrating their 41st anniversary on Sept. 27. Minister Akilah discussed about false prophets and people who talk the talk but don't walk the walk. Minister Lawrance Lee Evans stressed that Doology involves thinking. God holds us responsible for the use of our gifts.

The tutorial program goes outside for a weekly walk

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Every Friday before we eat dinner, we take the children in our Charles Riley Tutorial Program for a wak in the neighborhood so that everyone, adults and children, get exercise. Last week the weather was beautiful and the children played at the local playground. We planned to go back to Marie Daley Park today, but it drizzled and Minister Evans was reluctant to take the group far in the rain. This picture was taken on Averill Avenue, one block away from the Institute headquarters.

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Family Hour on Sept 21

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In an emotional Family Hour Worship Service in which Minister Lawrance Evans' wife and oldest student, Minister Akilah Evans, celebrated her 62nd birthday, Minister Evans praised his wife's sacrifices and contributions to First Community Interfaith Institute Inc. and stressed that although he has to hold frequent fundraisers to offset the expenses of running a church/tutorial program while competing with drug dealers and the negative other elements of street life that often keep black people from participating in a positive activity, he would rather do what he does best: teaching and organizing. It is what his grandmother prepared him for.

Minister Evans gets his props from an old friend

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I came across the Jena 6 blog, which featured a passage written by Brother Amefika Geuka, a writer and fellow nationalist based in Florida who is a good friend of Minister Evans:

http://thejena6blog.blogspot.com/2007/10/national-black-leadership-confrenceas.html

WELCOME!

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Thank you for taking this moment to learn about a wonderful discipline called DOOLOGY. Minister Lawrance Lee Evans, a native of Warren, Ohio, developed Doology while he attended graduate school in Rochester NY. During his first semester of grad study at Colgate Rochester Divinity School (which had just added Crozier Seminary, the school where Dr. Martin Luther King received his divinity degree), he founded First Community Interfaith Institute Inc.

First Community Interfaith Institute Inc. is a spiritual and cultural organization, plus a teaching church, which was formed in 1970 by Minister Lawrance Lee Evans Sr., the National Minister.

First Community Interfaith Institute Inc. has a Charles Riley Tutorial Program all year round and many events and celebrations through the year. From December 1 to January 1, First Community Interfaith Institute Inc. will be celebrating First Fruits/Kwanzaa. Minister Evans introduced First Fruits/Kwanzaa to the community of Rochester in 1970. Kwanzaa is important to First Community Interfaith Institute Inc., because it places emphasis on how important people are. People are our greatest assets. Kwanzaa also places emphasis on our children. That is why Minister Evans developed the Charles Riley Tutorial Program. Minister Evans recently received awards from A.B.O.V.E. and the Sankofa Festival for introducing First Fruits/Kwanzaa to the community of Rochester and working with children.