First Full Day of the Conference

Monday was the first full day of the conference. I attended two sessions; I attended a session with the parents of our keynote speaker followed by a session with a Professor from Howard University who discussed the role of the African American church in providing social services.

The first session with the parents of Anfani Okosun was very interesting. The father was the primary presenter and made it clear that he does not accept that his sons are gifted, geniuses or prodigies. He believes that they are the result of a thorough education that began in uterus. At the beginning of the forth month of gestation, he attached to his wife’s stomach wireless speakers through which a wide range of information was provided. It was fascinating to hear his “model”. Truly he has two extraordinary sons; I look forward to seeing how they plays out throughout their lives.

The second speaker, Charles Lewis, I believe it was was quite interesting. He discussed the history of the church as it relates to providing social services to local communities. The role has changed through the years in response to the ebb and flow of services provided by the government. It was a lively discussion with many being strongly opposed due to the lack of training on the part of such people while others were open to the fact that churches often represent otherwise untapped resources. Good balance and lots of respect. It was most interesting to hear the very common issues being raised through a variety of accents!