Reverend Dr. Judith C. Moore, dean of the Institute of Ministerial Training, fore­casts a bright future for the leaders of the Black church.

“We want to empower and equip all of God’s servants to become the leader that God has called you to be—a vessel that glorifies God and serves with gladness,” said Moore, pastor of First African Methodist Episcopal Church in Clairton where ministerial training is held.

LAWRENCE HAYNES III plays the piano.

Moore and the members of the board of examiners of the AME church put together a day-long leadership symposium at Clairton’s Morning Star Baptist Church to help current Black church leaders lead more effectively and ultimately tackle some of the problems that the Black Church faces today.

It is that time of year when people from the North Side come together as one at the North Side Oldtimers Reunion at West Park. People from Brigh­ton, Northview Heights, Manchester and other areas came together as a family to celebrate each other’s company.

Children played a very important part in how the weekend began as they led a march for peace starting at Columbus Middle School, kindergarten through eighth grade.

OLDTIMERS REUNION COMMITTEE—In back from left: James Arms, James Herring, Fred “Scrappy” Bulls and John Arms. Front from left: Flo Wilson and Mildred Tyler.

Theme parties are fun. When a theme is set you are given license to shop for a new outfit or at least pull one out of the closet that needs some exposure.

THE MUSIC MEN—Ronnie Biggs, Charles Carter Sr., Gurdy Metz, Jacques Burvick, Chaz Carter, Winston Carter, Danny Boy and Al Everson.

On Aug. 6 Club Duo held their White Party as a part of their Club Duo First Friday social. White parties have always been popular from the Hamptons to South Beach with Pittsburgh in between. Wearing white screams summer and who doesn’t have something white in their wardrobe? Most people at least own a white shirt.

This year’s 7th Annual Black Family Reunion & Cultural Arts Weekend went off without a hitch. Based in Schenley Park, the Community Empowerment Association celebration began Aug. 6 and drew close to 1,000 people.

“Understanding that the community is in crisis and recognizing the struggles disadvantaged and minority families endure to survive, the Black Family Reunion is a way to entertain, educate and empower people in ways traditional to our culture,” said Rashad Byrdsong, founder and CEO of CEA. “There is something for everyone to enjoy. This event is for everyone.”

FOR THE KIDS—Karena Dorsey leads the arts and crafts table.