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A Fresh Word News - November 2009
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A Radical Type of Praise
Nicole C. Mullen Shines in Modesto On Sunday, October 25, gospel recording artist, Nicole C. Mullen, shined at the Gallo Center for the Arts. She brought in a burst of energy that seemed unstoppable in a radical, crazy kind of praise, presenting the gospel of Jesus Christ through song. During her first song for the evening, Nicole asked the audience, “Are you ready for this?” From that time, she had the audience jumping with her contemporary gospel sound. She sung songs from her CD’s, including “Freedom,” “Call on Jesus,” “Redeemer,” and “Baby Girl” to only name a few. Mullen has won multiple Gospel Music Association Dove Awards including the female vocalist of the year and songwriter of the year honors as well as song of the year awards for her hit “Redeemer” and the Jaci Velasquez hit “On My Knees,” The singer, songwriter and choreographer also had a unique clothing style that showcased creativity and individuality. She is a strong advocate for the youth and has a mentoring group for young women called the “Baby Girl’s Club.” She introduced to the audience her team called NCM --a dance group consisting of four young ladies and one young man -- that was on tour with her. Nicole said, “I believe in the Word being established in their hearts, so we teach them to study God’s Word. One of the team members stood and quoted the entire 3rd chapter of John. Healing Nations, who invited Nicole to perform at the Gallo, is a 501(c)3nonprofit organization in Modesto that ministers to at-risk children on the West
Healing Nation staff
Greg & wife------ of Calvary Christian Center in Modesto
After the concert, fans stood in line to receive autographs, including Pastor Daryl Brown from Sacramento who brought four of his daughters out of seven (Zhane, Kierra, Charyl, Keturah) to attend the concert. My girls just love her, he said. More than 900 fans were in attendance.
Concert goers checking out Mullen’s cd’s, dvd’s and promotional material.
Shirley Salter, founder of Healing Nations and husband, Tim Concert attendee poses with Mullens
side, This is our first concert, and we wanted to find a way that would help raise funds, said Shirley Salter founder of Healing Nations. “Her music is just great!” said Greg of Calvary Christian Center located in Modesto. “I am waiting to hear Nicole sing “Redeemer.” his wfe added.
Staff member
Pastor Daryl Brown from Sacramento with four of his daughters out of seven (Zhane, Kierra, Charyl, Keturah)
Mullen’s dance group
This Month’s Fresh Word
(Judges 11:1,2)
It is important that you read Chapter 11 in it’s entirety to get the full understanding of this message. This chapter will provide you the background history of Jephthah. (pronounced Jeff-tha)
“Now Jephthah the Gileadite was a mighty man of valour, and he was the son of an harlot: and Gilead begat Jephthah. And Gilead’s wife bare him sons; and his wife’s sons grew up, and they thrust out Jephthah, and said unto him, Thou shalt not inherit in our father’s house; for thou art the son of a strange woman.”
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Written by Clarence E. Church, III
et me start out by saying-- so there will be no misunderstandings -- that this is an ugly, ugly story. I do not like telling stories that don’t have a happy ending; but unlike some of my colleagues, I don’t have a choice in the matter. I must relay the information that the Father has impressed upon me. So really, this is His story. Well, they are all really His, but you know some get told a lot more often than others. Like, “Daniel in the Lion’s Den.” Now that is a good story. It has tension, twist, deceit and a miraculous outcome, all the makings of a good story. You have the story of David, which is a “rags to riches” story-- classic in modern literature, even until this day; but today is not the day for a good “bedtime story.” This is the day for the truth! As a preacher, I am not called to give you a good story, but to tell you the truth just as it was given to me. Before we get started, I want to ask you a question. Have you ever been wounded? Not just hurt, but wounded . . . hurt bad . . . so wounded that you cannot adequately describe it. We know hurt and wounded are words that can be interchanged, but I believe “wounded” has a more serious connotation to it. You see, in my little mind, if you get into a fight and come out with a black eye, then you are just “hurt.” If Uncle Sam calls you into service and sends you half way around the world and you suffer a concussion, then you are “wounded.” In my thinking, “hurt” heals faster; but “wounds” last longer. “Hurts” are more on the surface, while “wounds” go deep. The pain of “hurt” can end, but the pain of a “wound” can last a lifetime. One last thing--most of the time you can tell if someone has been “hurt;” but it is harder to tell if one has been “wounded. “ That brings me to a story that happened in Los Angeles some time ago when a stray bullet of a gang banger struck and killed a father’s child. The father tried to get the police to arrest the three young men that were responsible, but to no avail. He was so stricken with grief that he went to the home where the young men hung out. Some of his family members called the police, because they were afraid that he might be killed also. The father stormed into the house; and even though the gang members were armed with bats and knives at the time, the father began to beat the gang members senseless. Then that Rev. Clarence E. Church, III is pastor of the father got the shooter by the neck and proceeded to choke the life out of him. Grace Community Church. He is married to Evangelist Cheryle Although the police had arrived at that time, they were unable to break the Church and has one stepson, Marcellus Jones father’s grip. While law enforcement was still struggling with the father, he asked a question, “Is he dead”? The officer looked at the lifeless body of the gang member --despite their efforts to save him-- and said,” Yes. It was at that point the father released his grip, sighed, and-- a little while later--dropped dead himself. He died from the wounds! No one knew he had that were inflicted on him shortly after he came through the door. In today’s text, we have a man that has gone through a tumultuous past and who has elevated himself into a powerful position out of the pain he experienced as a young man. Jephthah is the poster child for the walking wounded. Like so many others, he suffered his wounds during his upbringing. He was a part of a family that he loved and respected, and was respected in the SEE
wounded, pg. 6
news ‘A spiritual oasis’ in the heart of Dallas First Baptist Church of Dallas has announced plans for the largest building program undertaken by a single congregation. Plans for the $130-million building program were announced during Sunday services. The church, which has been located in downtown Dallas for more than a century, will have a new 3,000seat sanctuary, a six-story religious education building, and an acre of green space. FBC’s pastor, Dr. Robert Jeffress, says the campaign is more than a renovation. “For 140 years, First Baptist Church Dallas has been in the heart of one of America’s greatest cities, but we have felt the need to not just renovate our facilities, but completely recreate our facilities [and] turn [them] into what I’m calling ‘a spiritual oasis’ in the middle of downtown Dallas,” illustrates Jeffress. All buildings, except the sanctuary from 1890, will be torn down for the project. Dr. Jeffress says more than $60 million has already been pledged or given. The focus, however, is not on the scope of the project, says Jeffress. “This new campus is simply the means to achieve the true dream,” the pastor begins. “The true dream is seeing people come from all over the metroplex to be transformed into disciples of Christ.” Groundbreaking is scheduled for next summer. Jeffress reports that it will take at least two years to complete the project. FBC Dallas, with a membership of about 11,000, is one of the country’s largest Southern Baptist congregations.
briefs So. Baptist churches, pastors serving communities A survey by LifeWay Research has revealed the top evangelism activities of Southern Baptist churches. The research was gathered from interviews with 801 Southern Baptist pastors. Among the findings, Southern Baptist churches primarily use Vacation Bible School, feeding ministries, and visitor follow-up and prayer for those who do not know Christ as main evangelism activities. Scott McConnell, associate director for LifeWay Research, shares more insights from the survey. “The one that really jumped out at me, as showing that churches are prepared for the needs of their community, is to see that so many churches already have a ministry in place to be physically feeding people in their community,” he remarks. “We know the use of food stamps has hit record levels in the last year and [during] this recession, so we know a number of people have needed outside assistance to help literally put food on the table.” McConnell says the survey also shows that pastors play a major role in the emphasis a church puts on evangelistic endeavors. “We saw that the vast majority of pastors were actually leading by example,” he notes. “We saw that 96 percent of the pastors had shared with someone outside of the church -- so not just within their sermon - how to become a Christian in the previous six months.” The survey also found that the traditional invitation -- the “altar call” -- is still used in most Southern Baptist churches.
A Fresh Word News - November 2009
‘Soft preaching’ produces hard people
Christian leaders seek Holy Spirit empowerment
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A popular Christian author and Pentecostal leaders are planpastor says one can look to Jesus ning an event next year that seeks when it comes to dealing with false to address the goals and direction teachers and bad theology. of the Charismatic movement. In his newest book The Jesus Throughout this year, leaders of You Can’t Ignore, John MacArthur the Charismatic-Pentecostal movelooks at the Lord’s many personal, ment have met more than 14 times often explosive encounters with at locations in America and other the religious teachers of his day. parts of the world. The meetings, MacArthur says although Christ was also referred to as “conversations,” compassionate to those who were address all aspects of the Pentecosneedy, he had a different tactic with tal and Charismatic movement. Pastor Billy Wilson is chairman proud, arrogant religious leaders. “[In his] first public act, he of this initiative which has come to took a whip, went into the heart be known as “Empowered 21.” “The Charismatic-Pentecostal of Judiastic religion -- the Temple movement has been on a phenomitself -- and started throwing people enal growth curve around the globe out of there, overturning tables of for the last hundred years, but esmoneychangers, overturning the pecially the last 40 to 50 years,” tables in the operations of the buyers Wilson reports. “And yet in many and sellers of animals,” the noted places globally, we are seeing in the author shares. “He condemned movement a bit of a curtailing in the whole place because it was to the growth.” be a house of prayer, and they had Wilson says those issues and others are being addressed, all in turned it into a cave of robbers.” MacArthur says there are many preparation for an April gathering false teachers today who are not in Tulsa. He is hopeful the initiative will impact Christianity as a whole. preaching the full gospel. “Our hope is that across Chris“We have the idea today that tianity there would be a new hunger we need to preach this sort of soft, and a new generation to be filled amiable kind of message, [that] we and empowered by God’s Spirit, need to tell people what they want and in their context to really make to hear,” he laments. “But the truth a difference.” of the matter is, soft preaching So far, more than 400 Christian produces hard people. Because soft leaders have been involved in the preaching affirms them, tells them meetings leading up to event April they’re fine, [that] you need to grab 8-10, 2010. your dreams....” AF W N , P.O. Box 4153, Modesto, CA 95352, (209) 543-9100 And while afreshwordnews@sbcglobal.net Publisher, Writer, Photographer M a c A r t h u r Director of Sales & Advertisment: Roberson acknowledges that the K.Desktop Publisher/Graphic Designer: Roberson gospel makes people D.Contributing Writers: To Be Announced uncomfortable, he says A Fresh Word News, Inc., is a subsidiary of K.D.&I, Inc., and is a monthly christian-based newspaper. it prepares hearts for All advertising, subject matter, form, wording and illustrations shall be subject to by the publisher. the only cure for sin -- approval The publisher reserves the right to refuse any adverstisement and editorial copy subjmitted for publication. which is Jesus Christ. Views expressed in A Fresh Word News are those of their respective writers resh
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A Fresh Word News - November 2009
Black, White Methodists Heal 200-Year-Old Rift Written by Audrey Barrick, Christian Post
Racial barriers were broken as blacks and whites came together for worship on Sunday at a Philadelphia church that once espoused segregation. Members of Mother Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church, which was founded in the late 1700s by a group of blacks who walked out of St. George’s Methodist Church because of segregated seating, were welcomed back for a “reunion” and integrated worship. “You bless us in a way mere words fall short. The memory of what happened - hurt, hostility, disgrace, and disappointment - did not keep you from being here today. You grace us in coming,” said the Rev. Fred Day, pastor of Historic St. George’s Church, according to The Philadelphia Inquirer.
“. . . because we have overcome issues of racism, sexism, classism, and all other -isms that separate us from one another and God.”
Centuries ago, St. George’s was for some a symbol for racial segregation, Day said. But today, recon-
ciliation is more on the minds of the community when they view the nation’s oldest Methodist congregation.
Hundreds of black worshippers from Mother Bethel joined dozens of St. George’s white members for the historic service. The two Philadelphia churches have previously held ceremonial exchanges together, but this was the first time they worshipped together on a Sunday morning. “It’s a reunion, but more than that ... It’s Communion, Holy Communion, people coming together, differences and all, together at the SEE
methodists, pg. 15
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Black British Church Leaders to Celebrate Change
LONDON - Key black majority church leaders are to meet this week in London to celebrate the achievements and of one the most vibrant and fastest-growing areas of the UK church. The conference, called “The Black Church from Windrush to Obama: changing church, changing society”, which is being held in Black History Month, will see leaders share their successes in serving their church and local communities, explore challenges facing the church and investigate ways they can become even more effective in future. Dr R David Muir, Executive Director of Public Theology for the Evangelical Alliance UK and a member of the Black Christian Leaders Forum, said, “Black-maSEE
UK Church, pg. 15
news u wounded (cont.’ from page 3)
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community. The Gilead name drew respect and fear throughout their land, and Jephthah was a son of that family. He was held in high regard, and was a fierce warrior; however, that did not stop him from being that benevolent brother and neighbor to the whole community. Everybody looked up to him, especially his little brothers. He was the one all the other mothers wanted their sons to be like. “Oh that Jeff is such a wonderful young man.” “Jeff is always helping the seniors in the community.” “That Jeff came over and rebuilt that wall for me and didn’t ask me for a dime. “ “What a nice young man.” Then one day he wakes up and finds out that somebody is jealous of him. They thought he was a little “spoiled brat!” They thought that they might not make the cut on the inheritance when old man Gilead “kicks the bucket.” You know the type, Won’t lift a finger while their mother or father is alive; but as soon as it looks like momma or daddy is on their way out, they want to be the “new best friend; “ and sometimes not even then. One could not get you to cut daddy’s lawn; but when he’s gone, you want his house. Wouldn’t even come over to clean momma’s kitchen; but you want all her jewelry and her car when she’s buried in the grave. You know you are not the only child! I had better leave that alone ‘cause I’m stepping on somebody’s toes, and I know it! Let me get back to this thing. So Jephthah wakes up, and is told, “You don’t live here anymore. You are being evicted from your life, as you know it.” He is told, “We can’t have you around here anymore.” He was wounded! Jephthah is told to get out, and he doesn’t understand what is being said to him. He was being tossed away on a technicality, and it was boggling his mind. He was hurt because he was rejected for something he had nothing to do with--being born. He is hurt because he had done nothing wrong. He is hurt because he was told, “Your family isn’t your family. He was hurt because he was asked to leave the only home he had ever known. He was hurt because he was being separated from the only people he is accustomed to. He was hurt because he was told you can’t see your brothers anymore, and you can’t see your sisters anymore. He was hurt because he is the same person that he was the day before. He was hurt because he never thought they would say that to him. He was hurt, because he believed no matter what--family is family. It’s not supposed to be like this. Family should love each other. Friends should help one another. Why is this happening to me? Jephthah is thinking, This is my family; why would they do this to me? He was wounded! You see, those who are closest to us have the potential to hurt us the most. He was wounded because-- even though he could fight this thing-- he doesn’t because of them. Yes, he was wounded because he doesn’t want them to hurt him behind what his father did and what his mother was. He was wounded because he thought he would always live with them, talk to them, walk with them, cry with them, laugh with them, hunt with them, work with them, fight for them and eventually die with them. And so, He was wounded , wounded, wounded. He might not have show It, but wounded all the same. Wounded by family,
A Fresh Word News - November 2009
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wounded by friends, wounded by folks on the job, wounded by people he loved. Wounded in his walk, wounded in his talk, wounded in his conversation, wounded in the church, walking around functioning , doing everything but Wounded ….. Wounded…… Wounded I have to stop now. So let me ask another question. Are there any Jephthahs in the house? Anybody ever tell you that you weren’t loved. Anybody ever tell you that you ain’t no good. Have you had anyone to tell you, “I wish you were never born?” If you are reading this today, you need to know God has a way of turning situations around. You need to know God can turn prophets into liars. You need to know it does’t matter who your mamma is, who your daddy is, or who your uncle was as long as you have a heavenly Father. He will stand up for you. He will fight for you!!! Tell Him, “Yes” ….. Tell Him,” Yes” . . . Oooooh Yessssss!!
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A Fresh Word News - November 2009
New Faith Tabernacle of Life
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salutes
their Bishop and their Pastor Written by Kevin Roberson
Pastor R. L. Walker, Galilee Baptist Church in Merced - - Speaker for the Afternoon
Pastor Gwynn Amey and Bishop Dwight Amey, pastors of New Faith Tabernacle of Life in Merced, Califoria
New Faith Tabernacle of Life in Merced celebrated their pastor and wife for 35 years of dedicated service to their local assembly. Several churches from different denominations were invited to participate in the worship service. The Honorable Bishop Dwight Amey and Pastor Gwynn Amey received accolades from parishioners and fellow laborers in the Gospel. Pastor R. L. Walker of Galilee Baptist Church in Merced was the keynote speaker for the official day. The program was full of excitement and worship as different churches presented their choirs and soloists. Department leaders of New Faith presented special gifts of love and appreciation to their pastors. Bishop Amey also serves as the Presiding Bishop for the Body of Christ Internationl. Several of his board members were in attendance, like Bishop David J. McNeir, his first assistant. Bishop
McNeir rendered a selection with the “Sons of Thunder” from Modesto and Pastor Sheryl Bowden of New Faith Christian Center in Fresno introduced her youth department, who shared in a musical selection and worship dance. Pastor Gwynn Amey is a world-renowned musician, vocalist and keynote speaker. In the late 90’s, she was appointed as co-pastor of New Faith Tabernacle of Life. Since 1975, the church has continues to grow and many lives have been change. It was stated that New Faith has been a place where people can come and express
Galilee Baptist Church choir
their love through gifts and talents, then they can move on to other vineyards in the Bishop David J. McNeir, (on organ) first assistant to Kingdom of God. Bishop Amey rendering a selection with the “Sons of Thunder” of Modesto New Faith Tabernacle has been a training ground for many soldiers in the work of the Lord. We Salute them both for being faithful and obeying God.
Pastor Sheryl Bowden with husband and children of New Faith Christian Center of Fresno
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A Fresh Word News - November 2009
conferences & Events Showers of Blessings Church of God in Christ 3638 4th Avenue, Sacramento, CA 95832 ~ (916) 391-9833 Dr. Darrell Thomas, Pastor
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A Fresh Word News - November 2009
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Thanksgiving a Season to Be Thankful Submitted by Melissa Carole It can sometimes be difficult to find reasons to be thankful this time of year. Thousands of men and women are serving their country in a foreign land, while their children and loved ones remain home. I can only imagine how a child would feel who has to celebrate the Holidays wondering if daddy is ok or coming home soon. It must really be bad for the servicemen who have babys born that they have never seen, or had a chance to cuddle. The rich
smell of a Christmas tree can not compare to the sweet smell of a baby. There are others who are hungry and hear the sounds of their childs belly rumble. This not only happens during the holiday season but all year long. Many people are homeless and jobless. The price of food, shelter and gas continue to
rise, and wages are not getting any higher. Many will feel the wicked cold this winter season and may even wonder what brought them to this place of desolence. Soup kitchens and shelters will feel the pinch of not having enough room for everyone. I can not imagine what it must feel like to turn someone away from a warm bed, and a meal. I am so thankful for all that I have received. A wonderful Christian Husband, and healthy children. At night I have a warm bed and plenty of food. I complain about the cost of gas but I do not do without. My father in Heaven continues to provide for me. I ponder a retired doctor that used to ask his patents to rate pain on a scale of 1-10. I have often heard the story that he would tell his patients “10 is Jesus hanging on the cross.” It seems that most people would realize right away that their pain could never be as painful as jesus dying on the cross. I think of this during times when I feel I am feeling sorry for myself. I am so Thankful that God sent his son to die for my sins and yours. The anguish God must have felt when he realised that he was sacrificing his son for a sinful world and that many would still turn their backs on him. We should not just be thankful during Thanksgiving but all year long. n
Did You Know Psalm 118 verse 8 is in the center of the Bible: “It is better to trust in the Lord than put confidence in man.”
“Be thankful every morning when you get up that you have something to do that day which must be done, whether you like it or not.” Charles Kingsley
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testimonies
A Fresh Word News - November 2009
of faith
If you have a burning testimony that you would like to share with us, submit your request to: A Fresh Word News, P.O. Box ____________ _, Modesto, CA ___________ or email us at afreshwordnews@sbcblobal.net.
From Drugs to Hearing God! My ex-girlfriend and I broke up after a long relationship, and I was really tore apart inside... I started getting heavy into smoking pot.... I would look forward to going home just to get high... I would do it everyday, literally. I was going on my 6th month straight of this routine, when one night I was laying in bed completely baked... I had just bought a new ounce (which cost me over $80) and everything just came crashing in on me. I started feeling really bad about what I was doing and went back and forth for about a half hour debating in my mind whether I should just flush the whole ounce. I finally decided to do it... For the next two weeks or so after that, a lot of weird things started happening. I would see situations around me, and have strong feelings to do things for those people. A lot of the time I didn’t even want to do it, but the feeling inside was so strong I had to. I had been telling my ex-girlfriend all these weird things I was going through... Anyway I found out my Aunt had a brain tumor and was getting surgery for it, so I thought I should pray for her. It had been a LOOONG time since I had prayed before, but as I was finishing, I had this thought enter my mind that was basically along the line of, “you’re going to go to church tomorrow, and when the pastor calls for people to go down front, you go down front.” I didn’t think much of it, and just passed it off. Well it turns out my ex girlfriend had been telling one of her friends all that stuff I was going through, and that friend went to a “‘. . .He’s one of my angels.’” And I church in Malibu. Her friend actually called me that day and looked, and saw kneeling on the side invited me to go on Sunday to her church. Needless to say I was a little tripped out, I thought it was strange, and I guess of the 10 freeway a man with very that’s why I said okay. dark skin, and pure white clothes... So Sunday morning I headed out for Malibu. I was really late, and had almost decided to just turn around and go home, so white they almost seemed to give but I decided to keep going. off their own light.” I was right at downtown LA...with all the skyscrapers right there when all of a sudden I heard this voice. It was an audible voice, just as if I was speaking out loud to you. He said “Joshua, see that dove, that’s for you” and as soon as I heard it, I saw a white dove start to fly as if someone had just dropped it.... AS SOON as I saw the dove, this bolt like electricity shot through my body. It didn’t hurt or anything, but I just broke down and started to cry. I pulled off my sunglasses because they were getting all fogged up, and I heard the voice again...as clear as day, and He said, “Joshua, see that man on the side of the road, He’s one of my angels.” And I looked, and saw kneeling on the side of the 10 freeway a man with very dark skin, and pure white clothes...so white they almost seemed to give off their own light. Again, as soon as I saw him, that same “electricity” shot through me. Now everything was happening so fast, and my mind was reeling trying to connect everything. Before I was able to, I heard His voice again, (and it was the last time I heard him audibly) and He said, “Joshua, my love is all around you and my signs are everywhere” and after he said that, I saw a white balloon rise straight up from the freeway directly ahead of me. This all happened in a matter of seconds, although thinking back on it now, it seems like it took an hour. But after the balloon, everything hit home and I realized it was really God! That night I went to the church again, and at the end of the service, sure enough, the pastor called for people to come down front if they wanted to. I ran down front and stood eagerly expecting something to happen....5 minutes go by, SEE
drugs, pg. 15
Hi Everyone, “For all unemployed out there, I just want to share how the Lord provided for me a few years ago. Within a period of two years, I was retrenched twice. At first, I was totally distraught and cried out to the Lord. He blessed me with a new job with much better salary within just two weeks--right in the middle of a recession. When I got retrenched again, I remained cool and continued to delight in the Lord. As I’ve already experienced His provision before, there was no need to panic this time. Just when my savings were running out, I received a call from an unknown employment agency and secured a job immediately, and am still there.” Tina. Philippians 4:19 - “And my God will meet all you your needs according to his glorious riches in Jesus Christ.” Cling on to the promises of God, even in the midst of the many storms and turmoil around us, let us continue to witness to people around us and serve God joyfully ...
entertaiment News Stay Tuned! Kirk Franklin and Family are set to star in new TV Reality Show “Is It Just Me”. Which will follow the day to day life of Kirk Franklin and Family. Now finally a reality show that doesn’t compromise your Christianity.. So watch this space for more details...
Half of gospel duo gives birth, other is expecting Mary Mary’s Tina Campbell gave birth to a baby boy on Tuesday, Oct. 20th. According to GospelFlava.com, Tina Campbell and her husband, Soul Seekers member Teddy Campbell, welcomed TJ into the world weighing seven pounds. This is the third child for the couple. Tina Campbell’s sister and group partner, Erica Campbell, has announced that she is three months pregnant with her second child. She is married to producer Warren Campbell. Their chart-topping hit “God In Me” has remained one of the highest ranking singles for the dynamic duo. Love, Peace, Joy at Christmas, the first holiday album from awardwinning gospel group Trin-I-Tee 5:7, is being released as a combo CD/DVD. The package offers 11 traditional and original recordings, live performance footage and a special bonus track. Listeners are sure to get into the holiday spirit with Trin-I-Tee 5:7’s cover of classics “Winter Wonderland,” “O Holy Night” and “Silent Night.” Their rendition of “Joy to the World” is sure to be a fan favorite. The group also adds some jazz to “White Christmas” and remakes Michael Jackson’s “Give Love on Christmas Day.”
A Fresh Word News - November 2009
Left Behind Games to be tested. Is their a demand for titles with Christian themes?
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Left Behind Games got its foot in the door in 2006 at more than 200 Walmart stores around the country with Left Behind: Eternal Forces. This year’s test will determine if the company’s older games can compete with classics from the likes of Nintendo. Troy Lyndon, CEO of Left Behind business unit Inspired Media Entertainment, hopes solid sales in Texas -- which boasts the highest number of evangelical Protestants in the United States -- will prove the broad appeal of Christian-themed games. “The U.S. market for Christian videogames could reach $648 million within the next five years based upon just 3 percent of videogame sales being in the Christian segment,” Lyndon said in a press release. Left Behind, which makes games based on the popular end-of-days novels by Tim LaHaye and Jerry Jenkins as well as Charlie Church Mouse educational titles for preschoolers, will market its products by sending letters to Texas church pastors during the 10-week period leading up to Christmas.
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A Fresh Word News - November 2009
Children of Israel At the Henry Street Hebrew School, Goldblatt, the new teacher, finished the day’s lesson. It was now time for the usual question period. “Mr. Goldblatt,” announced little Joey, “there’s somethin’ I can’t figger out.” “What’s that Joey?” asked Goldblatt. “Well accordin’ to the Bible, the Children of Israel crossed the Red Sea, right?” “Right.” “An’ the Children of Israel beat up the Philistines, right?” “Er--right.” “An’ the Children of Israel built the Temple, right?” “Again you’re right.” “An’ the Children of Israel fought the ‘gyptians, an’ the Children of Israel fought the Romans, an’ the Children of Israel wuz always doin’ somethin’ important, right?” “All that is right, too,” agreed Goldblatt. “So what’s your question?” “What I wanna know is this,” demanded Joey. “What wuz all the grown-ups doin”?
Double puzzle 1. Write the answers to the clues in the boxes to the right of each clue 2. Copy the letters in the numbered boxes to the other boxes in the phrase below with the same number.
on the lighter side
The Bible tells us to love our neighbors, and also to love our enemies; probably because they are generally the same people.
SEASON, TEMPLE, HEART, FILTHY, VIPER, WHISPER, NURSE, IDOL This is what he promised us even eternal life ( 1 John 2:25) N.I.V. Solution
Church & Business Directory Grace Community Church
New Beginnings Tabernacle of Life Bishop David J. McNeir, Pastor
Sunday School 10:00 A.M.
“As long as I have life, I have a chance.”
600B “F” Street Modesto, CA 95357 Phone: (209) 403-2864
Clarence E. Church, Pastor Cheryle Church, Co-Pastor
New Life Community Church Elder Delford Moore, Pastor
Sunday Services Sunday School - 9:45 am Morning Service - 11:00am Y.P.W.W. - 7:00pm
Weekday Services Tuesday Bible Study - 7:00pm Friday Night Worship - 7:00pm
Noon Prayer Monday, Wednesday, Friday 1250 Overland Ave. • Los Banos, CA 93635 Phone: (209) 827-1605
Give God the Praise!
230 Oak Street Modesto, CA 95351 Phone: (209) 521-7130
Prayer Mission
Church of God in Christ Come join us again in Worship and Praise of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ
Pastor and Sister Peoples
Sundays 9:30 a.m., 11a.m., 7 p.m. Tuesdays 7 p.m. (christian enrichment class) Fridays 7 p.m. (praise and teaching)
Modesto Christian Center
Pastor Jesse Stovall
1644 Dewitt Road Modesto, CA 95357 Phone: (209) 526-2174 Church Offc. (209) 551-3512
Sunday Services Sunday School - 9:30am Morning Service - 11:00am Evening Service - 6:00pm Weekday Services Tuesday Awana Sept-May Wednesday Bible Study - 7:00pm
600B “F” Street Modesto, CA 95357
Sunday Service 11:00 a.m.
SWorship eed of Joy Center Elder Archie LeVias, Jr, Pastor 536 Kiernan Avenue * Modesto, CA 95356 Sundays - 9:00 AM - Morning Prayer - 9:30 AM - Christian Growth Hour - 10:45 AM - Morning Worship - 10:45 AM - Children’s Church - 6:00 PM - Sunday Night Joy (2nd, 3rd, 4th Sunday Nights)
etc., u uk church “Black-majority churches will remain an entrenched part of British religious life partly because they fulfil a significant cultural and pastoral role in our pluralist society and offer alternative methods of evangelisation. “Black Christianity has been a major part of the re-evangelisation of Britain over the last 60 years and will continue to be so in the future.” Dr Albert Odulele, Senior Pastor of Glory House, said, “This conference highlights the crucial part that the Black Church has played in British society over recent decades. If you want to explore the heritage, possibilities and potential for the church in 21st century Britain, then I would encourage you not to miss this event.” Speakers at the conference will include Dr Odulele, the Rt Hon
etcetera Stephen Timms MP, Labour Vice Chair for Faith Groups, Bishop Eric Brown, Administrative Bishop with the New Testament Church of God, Rev Nezlin Sterling, of the New Testament Assembly, and Dr Robert Beckford, theologian and film maker. The conference is taking place on Friday starting at 9:30 am at Epainos Ministries in London. All participants will receive free lunch and refreshments, two free books and a copy of the 2009 Oliver Lyseight Annual Lecture. Faith and community leaders, as well as public policy makers are all welcome to this free conference. Attendees are asked to confirm their places by Wednesday 28 October by email or telephone. Please contact Valeria Kovalak at v.kovalak@ eauk.org or 020 7207 2132.
u wounded (cont.’ from page 3) then 10, I said forget it, and turned to leave just as someone came up and started praying. It was a quick little prayer, and then they left. So I thought, okay, I’m outta here, and as I turned again to leave, I felt Him very strongly say, “No, I’m not finished yet...just stand here and be patient.” So I stopped and waited. Almost 20 more minutes went by and by that time I couldn’t be patient anymore so I turned to walk out. Again, just as I did, another man came up and started praying for me. All of a sudden I started to feel that electricity again...really subtle in my feet. But then it started getting stronger and it felt like it was filling up my whole body until I couldn’t even stand anymore. So there I was on the floor, feeling this energy flowing through my body in waves... I started getting freaked out... I thought this was all wrong and I was even starting to be afraid. It felt like something was literally rising out of me...this really made me afraid but then I heard His voice again. It was so clear, I couldn’t even tell if it was audible or not (I don’t know if the people around me could hear it, but I doubt they could). But he said “Joshua don’t be afraid... I’m cleansing you of your sins... I’m taking away all of those things of the past” and I just remember the comfort that flooded my body as soon as He spoke. I wasn’t afraid anymore. Then He said, “Joshua, I’m holding your hand right now.”
A Fresh Word News - November 2009
15
u methodist Centuries ago, St. George’s was for some a symbol for racial segregation, Day said. But today, reconciliation is more on the minds of the community when they view the nation’s oldest Methodist congregation. Hundreds of black worshippers from Mother Bethel joined dozens of St. George’s white members for the historic service. The two Philadelphia churches have previously held ceremonial exchanges together, but this was the first time they worshipped together on a Sunday morning. “It’s a reunion, but more than that ... It’s COMMunion, Holy Communion, people coming together, differences and all, together at the Lord’s Table, seeking peace and harmony with God and one another. You can’t have one without the other,” Day said. The idea for the joint service was born as the pastors of both churches were planning to commemorate separate historic occasions. St. George had its 240th anniversary to celebrate while Mother Bethel was marking the 250th birthday of Bishop Richard Allen. Allen was among those who left the segregated worship at
St. George’s more than 200 years ago and founded Mother Bethel, which established independence from white Methodists. The former Delaware slave also formed the AME Church, a Wesleyan denomination. In a symbolic gesture on Sunday, the Rev. Day presented Mother Bethel pastor the Rev. Mark Kelly Tyler with a cross that was made with the nails from St. George’s balcony - which was built to segregate blacks and whites. The two churches have planned for more joint worship services in the future. But Tyler noted that racial divisions are still “alive and well” across the country. He hopes that one day a service like the one they just held “will not even be newsworthy because we have overcome issues of racism, sexism, classism, and all other isms that separate us from one another and God.” The integrated worship comes after The United Methodist Church adopted a constitutional amendment that recognizes “the sin of racism that has been destructive to its unity throughout its history” and calls the denomination to “confront and seek to eliminate racism.”
And as soon as He said that, my left hand “exploded” into the most intense feeling of the electricity I have ever experienced to this day... It didn’t hurt at all, but it was so intense... I could feel His power... and I KNEW He was holding my hand! Then He said “Joshua, now you know I am real...you’ve heard about me since you were a kid...I am Jesus...I am the living God” Then my mind started flooding with memories from all through my life....moments where He had protected me and been with me, and I had never even known it. It was absolutely incredible!!
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