The Inglewood Area Ministers Association (IAMA) held its monthly meeting on Thursday October 2, 2008.  The IAMA organization is successfully unites clergy, business owners and community through monthly meetings and events. Rev. Dr. Austin F. Williams, is the diligent, strong and influential president of the IAMA and he is also the pastor of True Vine Baptist Church. The full agenda was filled with informative, encouraging and passionate speakers.

Rev. Teodoro Carreres presided over the meeting greeting the attendees with a hearty welcome and uplifting song. Minister Sandra Green gave a powerful opening prayer.  Rev. Chris Ward followed with an inspirational scripture and message pertaining to financial stability during these unstable times. President Austin Williams highlighted the organization's accomplishments, goals and introduced the speakers.

Chief Jacquelyn Seabrooks shared that the Inglewood Police Department (IPD) is weathering the storm and thankfully has no new crisis.  She explained the role of the OIR and emphasizing that she had invited their participation before any of the questionable shooting incidents.  

"We are engaging in impact training and putting more tools in our toolbox," Chief Seabrooks stated optimistically.  She explained the various levels and hours of training and explained that she too was participating in training. 

The Chief Seabrooks also made an appeal to the clergy to join the IPD Chaplain program.  It is a non-denominational program that provides services for persons in need during times of crisis. Chief Seabrooks said there is also a need for volunteers to assist with basic office duties such as filing, typing, etc. Ending her speech on a high note she stated that violent crime is down in Inglewood, the lowest in 36 years.

There was a full agenda with informative speakers such as James Smith, who informed members about the Angel City Classic football game. True Vine Baptist Church has tickets and will also provide free transportation for youth.  Information regarding the Home Health Care company and its high quality service was also presented to meeting attendees. Information regarding Proposition 8 was also presented asking members to visit ProtectMarriage.com.

Rev. Austin Williams also spoke openly about his disappointment regarding school board members voting against continuing the contract of Inglewood Superintendent Pamela Short-Powell.  Rev. Williams partnered with Supt. Short-Powell in establishing the Adopt-A-School program and recently celebrated Education Sunday with the Inglewood Unified School District.

The members were also encouraged to continue to encourage their congregations to get out and vote and review the propositions.  Member Johnny Young distributed information regarding theology classes that are available in Inglewood.

"I am doing fine and know that God is with me and all around me and everything will work out," stated an optimistic Inglewood Mayor Roosevelt Dorn. The Mayor has been accused of conflict of interest and other related charges. Mayor Dorn then  gave an update on the City business, events and meetings. He also spoke briefly regarding concerns with the IUSD. He vowed to continue to promote IAMA and its outstanding work. 

The mission of the IAMA is to help bridge the gap of denominational strife and differences in order to bring clarity, truth and understanding to the body of baptized believers in Jesus Christ to become more visible, viable and visionary in all areas of Inglewood life. Reverend Williams continues to lead the IAMA team of members and community partners in fulfilling the mission.

IAMA hosts and is responsible for several community events in addition to the Annual Inglewood Prayer Breakfast. Throughout the years, (IAMA) has donated to several organizations including the American Cancer Society Relay for Life, assisted inner city youth with camps and "Stop the Killing" campaigns while maintaining an active partnership with the Inglewood School District.

"As ministers, pastors and clergy we continue to pledge our assistance to this great City of Inglewood and surrounding cities not only in word but also in deed." states Pastor Williams.  

The hard working IAMA board members include Bishop Chris L. Ward (1st Vice-President), Rev. Teodoro Carreras (2nd Vice-President), Rev. Barbara Williams (3rd Vice-President), Rev. Jewett Walker (treasurer), Cynthia Manker (secretary) and Min. Sandra Green (assistant secretary). Samuel Bingham serves as the chair of the IAMA business members.

 Once again Pastor Dr. Williams is asking clergy and business owners to attend the next IAMA meeting which will be held on Thursday, November 6, 2008 from 10 a.m. to 12 noon at True Vine Church, 1437 W. Centinela Ave. in Inglewood. To RSVP for the meeting or for additional information please call (310) 672-9370 or email to This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .