FALL 2009 • Vol 02 NO. 4
Children Out of Control: The Meaning Behind the Derrion Albert Tragedy
Female Pastors: Recent Study Reveals Progress, BUT
Michelle Chang
Surviving a Knife Attack, Thanks God!
A Publication of the Ministerial Alliance of North Amityville and VicinitY (MANA)
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Manna News • Fall 2009
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Vol.02 • No.04 FALL 2009 www.mannanews.org
MANNA Newspaper staff Pastor Roy Kirton MANA President Dr. David Robinson Executive Editor Bishop Andy C. Lewter Managing Editor Pastor Elena L. Mayfield Dynamic Creative Solutions Design & Layout Deacon Calvin Watt Distribution
Editorial Editorial From President’s Roy Kirton From thethe President’s Desk:Desk: PastorPastor Roy Kirton 1 I exhort that, of firstthe of all, Dear Manna As Readers we issue this Fall installment of therefore, states “And children of Issachar, the MANNA paper, our communities are which were men that had understanding supplications, prayers, intercessions, preparing upcoming of of thanks, of the times, to know and giving be made for allwhat Israel ought to On June 23rd I leftfor mythe office to go a holidays Thanksgiving and Christmas. For many, do:” The first challenge of the day is to Seminary class in Lower Manhattan. I men; due to the high unemployment rate and understand the climate that we have been 2 For kings, and for all that are in auboarded the train with some reading mahuge foreclosure percentages, this is a very place in as spiritual leaders. The next segterial for my travel time to the Big Apple. thority; that we may lead a quiet and depressing time. ment, equally as challenging, is to know life in all godliness and honAs I sat I noticed of Newsday Wea copy are also hearingand aboutpeaceable many car what to do to bring hope to those that have esty. proceededfatalities to quickly scroll the pages. that are alcohol and drug related. left victims to all that this recession has this isproduced. When I gotBut to the obituary there good and acceptable in in the midst notices of all that is going 3onFor God I know that as we think outside the box, is still control. I feelEmma that these was a filing of a in woman named thesituations sight of God our Saviour; thatGray, must met by the the Lord will use his Church to meet the Gray. As present stated ina challenge her bio, Ms. needs ofgives the people. The in Church this example who died Body Ms. Gray’s a lesson We, to as leaders, have at ageof95Christ. was born Edge-must take a powerful opportunity opportunity to provide services to the comfield, South Carolina. She was raised by all believers of the importance of prayer. for ministry. My munity that will bring hope in the midst of wishes for you and your family is that you her grandfather who was a former slave. I would tremble to think how history have a blessed holiday season as you predespair. have pare gonetoifbe this cleaning She migratedThe to Washington in would12:32 book of D.C. 1st.Chronicles the hands and feet of Jesus. 1943 and obtained a job as a custodian woman, who was placed in the White for the White House. For more than 24 House by the Holy Spirit, did not obey year, during her cleaning tenure at the God. There is much turmoil in our counWhite House, she come into the Oval Of- try and world today, and it is imperative fice and spend a moment in prayer over that we, as believers, pray earnestly for the President’s chair. In her prayer for President Barack Obama. He is our the President she would ask God to bless leader placed there by God, but he needs him, give him wisdom and pray for his our prayer support. I challenge each of safety. Her story reminded me of what you to do as Ms. Emma Gray “so that we Paul instructed Timothy do in 1 Timo- may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all Godliness and honesty.” thy 2:1-3 (KJV)
Message From the Executive Editor
Praise God from Whom All Blessings Flow
Contributors Pastor John Davis Nadine Johnson
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By Dr David Robinson
Christ. People of God, let us come before his presence with thanksgiving, and make a joyful noise unto him with psalms. The joy of thankgiving increases as we learn to share and serve others. I close with the words of the song commonly known as the doxology.
On Thursday November 26, 2009, our nation will celebrate what has now become known as Thanksgiving Day. A day when family and friends from far and near will gather to thank God for his many blessings, and to dine and fellowship together. While our nation has set aside one day as a day of thanksgiving, we who are members Praise God from whom all blessings of the body of Christ, understand that for flow; us everyday is a day of thanksgiving. The Praise Him all creatures here below; bible declares in Ephesians 5:20 (KJV) GivPraise Him above, ye heavenly host; ing thanks always for all things unto God Praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost! and the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Pastors serve on the front lines of safely through while building a culthe spiritual war that engulfs this ture of peace within the church. world. All too often their greatest batThe bible admonishes us in Hetles takes place within the church itself, where they are caught in the brews 12:14, Follw peace with all men, crossfire of personal, theological, and and holiness, without no man shall or congregational conflicts. These see the Lord. endless many July 7, 2009 - President Kirton of skirmishes between leave the ages of pas18 to 24 for sum- fulltime employment. The Student states with trumtors---and mer their families---soTheexM.A.N.A., along with Elvira Duncan employment. jobs areHebrews funded 13:17, Conservation Association is a not for of the PAXEN Group and Michael as wounded a part of that President Obama’s stimuthatthe protects and restores pet clarity, Obeyprofit them group that have hausted and they lose Maher, Campus Recruiting Manager package and thetheyouths willyou, be and national parks, marine sanctuaries, rule over submit yourselves: their joy forlus ministry, or they leave of the Student Conservation Associworking in the State Parks. cultural landmarks pastorate altogether. for theyThose watch for your souls, as they and community ation, coordinated the interviewing participants who do wellmust willgive have green spaces in all account, that they may do 50 States. and hiring of 20 community youths the opportunity to transition into Human conflict is a given in fami- it with joy, and not with grief. lies, marriages, churches, small groups, and the world. I encourage For those of you who love the all God fearing members regardless of local church, and want it to reflect the denomination to pray for your Pastor glory of the God of peace, pray that he/she when confronted with earnestly for your Pastor and family conflict, will be able to lead their flock that God will lead them as they lead
Message from the Executive Editor
Pastors Need Prayer and Encouragement
Jobs for Youth
Visit Us Online @ www.mannanews.org Manna News • Fall 2009
Spring 2009 • Manna News • 3
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Christian Education New Study Bible for Children to be Released This Fall “Our goal is to publish resources to help more African- American children explore God’s Word,” said Annette Bourland, Zonderkidz Senior Vice President and Publisher.
In uncertain times, keeping hope and faith alive in our young people is a top priority. This fall, ZonderkidzTM, the leading publisher of children’s Bibles and Bible storybooks, will release “My Holy Bible for African-American Children”, a large print, New International Version (NIV) Bible featuring culturally significant artwork and inspiring book introductions. Edited by Cheryl and Wade Hudson, the nationally acclaimed authors and publishers of Just Us Books, My Holy Bible for African-American Children connects the spiritual challenges and triumphs of today’s youth with the journeys of well-known Biblical heroes. Leading African-American illustrators such as Pat Cummings, Nancy Devard, Shane Evans, Cathy Ann Johnson, Anna Rich, Javaka Steptoe and Michele Wood also engage readers with more than 30 pages of spellbinding art.
According to Marketing to the Mosaic, an October 2008 study conducted by the marketing strategy researchers Taylor and Welch, 96 percent of AfricanAmericans polled indicated that they believed in God, with 95 percent reporting that they pray in a given week and 60 percent saying they read the Bible. These are rich traditions that Zonderkidz believes My Holy Bible for African-American Children can help families pass on to the next generation. “Our goal is to publish resources to help more African- American children explore God’s Word,” said Annette Bourland, Zonderkidz Senior Vice President and Publisher, “and we believe that this one-of-its-kind full text Bible with its glorious illustrations, created just for the African- American community, emphasizes just how much God knows and loves them.” Visit Zonderkidz™ at www. zonderkidz.com.
Female Pastors – Recent Study Reveals Progress, BUT Jireh Records Looking for the Next Great Female Gospel Soloist By Bernard Corbett Could you be the next Cece Winans or Yolanda Adams? Have you been told that you have a genuine singing gift but have never taken the time to investigate whether it was good enough to record? Have you been singing for a while and are now ready to take your talent to the next level? Well we just may have some good news for you. Jireh Records is looking for Gospel Music’s next great female solo artist. If you think that you’re that great talent. Write us @ jireh.records7@gmail.com Also you can send your demo to Jireh Records 33 West 19th street New York NY 10011 suite 308 It’s your season. 4
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Bishop Vahti McKenzie, of the African Methodist Episcopal Church
By Elizabeth Felder Although female senior pastors continue to face a glass-ceiling, a recent study reveals that women in the pulpit have made substantial
gains over the last 10 years. According to a new Barna Group survey, the number of female senior pastors has doubled between 1999 and 2009. In 1999, 5% of senior pastors of Protestant churches were
women. Today 10% are women. The survey also revealed that over the last 10 years, the average age of See Female Pastors, Page 5
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Church News Freedom Chapel Dedicates New Sanctuary From its beginning in 1993 as a Coffeehouse Outreach in a VFW Hall on Route 110, Freedom Chapel needed to expand. After six years of building and believing God for His provisions and proclaiming a 52-Day Nehemiah Miracle, Freedom Chapel International Worship Center opened Easter Sunday of this year. Freedom Chapel has expanded their ministries to reach lives with the Gospel. Their ministries consist of Royal Rangers, Missionettes, Hoop Challenge Summer Basketball Camp, Super Saturday Kids Krusade Program, Rock the Block Street Outreaches, Certified Bible Courses,
Female Pastors
•S unday, November 1 @ 10:30am with Victor Torres
•F riday, November 6 @ 7:00pm with Jim Cymbala •S unday, November 8 @ 10:30am with Jimmy Jack • Friday, November 13 @ 7:00pm with Bobby Lloyd •S unday, November 15 @ 10:30am with Don Wilkerson •F riday, November 20 @ 7:00pm with Tim Adour and Church of the Revelation Choir •S unday, November 22 @ 10:30am with Jimmy Jack
•S unday, November 22 @ 5:00pm “CELEBRATION SUNDAY” with Bishop Frank White, Jerry Stewart, Calvin Hunt, Paige Strackman and other special guests. Please come and join us as we celebrate the miracle of our building and the many lives that have been changed through the ministries God has allowed us to establish. If you would like more information, please call Joanna Dagley at (631) 789-5050.
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female pastors increased from 50 years of age to 55; and women in the pulpit are disproportionately more educated than their male counterparts. In fact, 77% of female pastors have a seminary degree, while only 63% of male pastors have graduated from seminary. Despite their educational advan-
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International Gospel Crusades, Food Pantry and dynamic Worship services geared to challenge people of all ages toward a relationship with Jesus. Founder and Senior Pastor Jimmy Jack along with the Pastors, Leaders and Congregation are setting aside the month of November to celebrate the dedication of the new Sanctuary. The month of November will be filled with special speakers and musical guests. The following is a schedule of the services:
tage, female pastors continue to earn less money than male pastors. The current average compensation package for women in the senior pastorate is $45,300 vs. $48,600 for men. The Barna study noted, however, that although men have seen a 21% salary increase since 1999, the wage gap
between the sexes has diminished over the last 10 years — with female pastors earning 30% more than they did 10 years ago. In the past, male pastors were compensated (on average) $6,900 more than women. Today the gap has narrowed by almost half to $3,300. In the study, Barna Group noted
that congregational sizes have contributed to the salary variation between female and male pastors. Men, disproportionately, lead larger churches with an average of 103 adults in attendance each week. Female pastors, however, have a median attendance of 81 adults each week.
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Community News Children Out of Control: The Meaning Behind the Derrion Albert Tragedy By Bishop Andy C. Lewter, D. Min. “Its 10 o’clock do you know where your children are?” This was a popular line from a television commercial back in the early 1970’s, especially in the New York City and surrounding area market. Now church leaders and community groups are wondering if parents should not be held accountable for the violence committed by young people today. This past week, the city of Chicago was thrust into the limelight of media attention when honor student, Derrion Albert, with no apparent gang affiliation, was caught up in a street melee that unfortunately claimed his life. His brutal beating, which was captured by an amateur videographer, highlighted the serious violence taking place on American streets across the country in urban centers like Chicago. Albert was an honor student walking home from Fenger High School when two rival student groups began a street brawl that engulfed the entire street filled with bystanders and onlookers. The videographers tape clearly shows a
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Derrion Albert
number of students battling one another with fists and plywood. Some of the most horrifying portions of the tape shows students wielding a two by four club while several students were kicking and hitting someone prostrate on the ground. The victim who lay on the ground was Albert who was moved inside a building once the fight subsided. Unfortunately, Albert’s injuries were too severe for him to survive.
Because of the tape, several attackers were identified and have been arrested by the police. The incident in Chicago has raised awareness and forced churches and other community based groups to take a new look at an old problem. While many of the faith community want to oversimplify the problem by saying that the current problem is the result of having taken prayer out of the schools several years ago, persons who have been working with the problem of children behaving out of control believe this is far more complex and involved than the issue of the absence of prayer. Philip Jackson is the founder of the Black Star Project which is working to strengthen violence-stricken communities in Chicago. “Schools by themselves can’t fix the problem,” Mr. Jackson says. “We have to get the community involved. Right now, the problem seems to be here at Fenger. Tomorrow, it will be another school.”Instead of the money that has come from Washington to bolster police presence, Jackson would like to see funds for more coun-
selors, after-school programs, and job creation. According to the Christian Science Monitor “Keeping students safe – especially as they walk to and from school – has become a challenge for Chicago schools and police. Since the academic year began three weeks ago, five Chicago children have been killed, says Phillip Jackson, founder of the Black Star Project, which is working to strengthen violence-stricken communities in Chicago. In 2008, more than 30 students were killed, according to the Associated Press, citing district figures. “Train up a child in the way that he should go...” is a passage of scripture that has often been cited in churches and across pulpits by preachers. However, the large degree of violence that we are now seeing among young people suggest that it is not a problem of just children, but one of parenting and guidance as well. Have we become too lax? Or has the Bible become an irrelevant tool for parents to use in the raising of their children? We are anxious to hear from you.
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Terrorism What Can We Really Do? Pastor John C. Davis Amityville Community Church
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Ever since 9/11 our society has had the undercurrent of a quiet fearfulness and concern that at any moment another act of terrorism could make its way into our lives. It is not uncommon to hear in the news that some type of terrorist cell group was uncovered, and another threat to our security was thwarted by the ever watchful eye of our intelligence community. I cannot begin to speculate about how devastating or frightening terrorism will become or not become in our society. The future remains in the hands of God. Yet, in reality when one considers the numbers, one is more likelihood to be hit by a car, or have a car accident. althought the common crimes still occur they’re not as frightening Is it any safer to walk down certain streets? Is the sale of drugs on street corners suddenly diminishing? I would venture to guess, that sadly, there have been dozens of murders a day in our country, and many more burglaries a day, in our nation. Numerous fatal or near fatal car crashes occur daily, and this is not counting the other tragedies surrounding pornography, alcoholism, child and/or spouse abuse. Then there are those
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social evils still lurking about, poor education, homelessness and a list of other evils, injustices or hardships far too numerous to list here. Why the great panic over events that have affected less than .001% of our population? To better illustrate the number, this would be the equivalent of New York City going two full years without a murder. The question still remains, who can really safeguard our nation from terrorism? The Bible gives us the answer to this question quite clearly. John 14:27 “Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.” The passage found in John gives one of the answers to the sudden worry about terrorism. The answer is that for many of us, before Christ, our peace was not based on anything solid from the very beginning. Our peace, if truly examined, was based either on national security, job security, family security, economic prosperity, personal popularity or fulfillment. If we are honest with ourselves how stable can any of these entities truly be? Even before the attack on September 11, 2001 our country had been involved in 5 wars dating back to the 1940’s, WWII, Korea, Viet-
nam, Persian Gulf, and Iraq. There has been AIDS, a cold war with the former Soviet Union, gang violence and many other events, which have caused a panic of sorts in our country. Sadly, even loved ones eventually die, and we must face life without them. What we find, is, that there is really nothing of any lasting substance on this planet in which we can place our hope. The passage in John clearly states that Jesus gives us the only peace that can last. Notice that Jesus specifically compares His peace to the peace of the world. In any era or age there have always been problems and calamities that cause people to panic and worry. That is why what Jesus says is so crucial to our times. There is always something for people to worry about. But, when the God of all eternity, who controls every circumstance, offers peace, He is the only One who can deliver on the promise. Now, to you who have little concern for terrorism, or, might be thinking to yourself, “I am not one prone to panic.” You say within yourself “I do not really need to hear about peace, the present day circumstances do not worry me in the least”. The Bible speaks loud and clear to your perspective; Luke 12:17 “And he thought within him-
self, saying, ‘What shall I do, since I have no room to store my crops?’18) “So he said, ‘I will do this: I will pull down my barns and build greater, and there I will store all my crops and my goods. 19) ‘And I will say to my soul, “Soul, you have many goods laid up for many years; take your ease; eat, drink, and be merry.” 20) “But God said to him, ‘Fool! This night your soul will be required of you; then whose will those things be which you have provided?” Whether it is your financial prosperity, good looks, popularity, special talents, or a simple ignorance of the reality of your situation, there is good reason for you to worry. While terrorism has not caused you excessive worry or concern there is something far deadlier than terrorism running wild in our society, SIN. Sin unlike terrorism has never missed one of its victims. Consider the passage found in Romans 6:23; “For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.” or the following passage in Hebrews, Heb 9:27 “And as it is appointed for men to die once, but after this the judgment.” No, maybe you do not have to worry about terrorism, and maybe you do not have to worry about See terrorism, Page 11
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Safe Harbor Mentoring Program: “Reducing the Rate of Recidivism”
The repeal of the Rockefeller Drug Laws by Governor Patterson has allowed many individuals who received extensive prison terms to return to their communities earlier than they anticipated. The transition of formerly incarcerated people has presented many challenges for the person, his family and his community as whole. Our criminal justice facilities in New York all maintain the word “correctional” in their titles when, for the most part, they are penal and correctional facilities. The Safe Harbor Mentoring Program is an aftercare program born out of my concern for formerly incarcerated people. For the most part society has placed labels on these individuals, such as “ex-cons,” which has caused them to bear, as it was, a scarlet letter even when they are released. Safe Harbor’s mission is designed to assist people (with the emphasis on people) with a troubled past who, after being released, needs to focus on living socially acceptable and productive lives. Safe Harbor, as a broad based community organizer, realizes its mission and goals through education, advocacy, empowerment, prevention and increasing public safety and awareness. Safe Harbor obtained its name from the hamlet of its origin, Copiague, which in the Native American tongue means “Safe Harbor.”
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Our program volunteers consist of more than 35 ministry leaders from various church traditions in Nassau and Suffolk Counties. We are a recognized 501c-3 not-for-profit organization and have been funded by the Catholic Campaign for Human Development and the Long Island Community Foundation. On a weekly basis our volunteers go into the correctional facilities teaching Life Skills to some 125 incarcerated people with the purpose of preparing them for the transition when they are released. Each volunteer attends training sessions so that they may be astute at ministering to the needs of these individuals who are behind the walls. These individuals, when released, are encouraged to seek our assistance in making their transition. Our organization has developed a reference referral guide for formerly incarcerated people to assist in housing, job training and educational opportunities. In addition to that the spiritual component is also a vital area of our focus. Since the rate of recidivism is 70% our program is holistic in its approach. We have a simple equation: Heal the whole person and that person becomes an invaluable resource for healing others. We also realize that when an individual is incarcerated his whole family is part of that senSee safe harbor, Page 12
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Cover Story
Michelle Chang Surviving a Knife Attack, Thanks God! “People have been so kind and supportive, I am really thankful for all of the prayers that I have received.” reports Chang with a voice that nearly breaks.
By Bishop Andy C. Lewter, D. Min. On October 2, 2009, Michelle Chang, who owns Peter’s Diner located on Route 110 just south of the Southern State Parkway in Amityville, NY, went to the back door of her restaurant, the way that she does every day since she purchased the business three years and three months ago. As she approached the door, a shadowy figure emerged from around the corner and attacked her. When it became apparent that his robbery effort had failed, the assailant resorted to a brutal and vicious attack with a knife. In a matter of minutes, Michelle had been stabbed in the neck and head. The assailant left her bleeding and in danger of losing her life. Michelle was rushed to Good Samaritan Hospital where she was able to recover after several days. For most people, a life threatening experience such as this would have caused them to close shop, take their earnings and go home. However, within only days of her recovery, Michelle was back at the restaurant with a bright smile and a thankful heart that the attack did not turn out to be any worse. I have always felt safe here and I am so grateful that I am still here
and alive” says Michelle. As customers streamed through her doors in the aftermath of the attack, she was bathed with hugs and good wishes from people who were shocked and disappointed that operating a diner in North Amityville has become “risky business”. “People have been so kind and supportive, I am really thankful for all of the prayers that I have received.” reports Chang with a voice that nearly breaks. Michelle’s restaurant (Peter’s Diner) is a favorite destination for many church goers who enjoy patronizing the restaurant either on their way to church or between morning church services in the central Long Island area. At times, it is difficult to find a seat because of how popular her establishment has become since taking over. Michelle took over the business in 2006 and in doing so, kept all of the former employees, maintaining their livlihood, while providing excellent customer service and scrumptious food all at the same time. The entire faith community of central Long Island is thankful to God that Michelle survived her knife attack and continues to be an asset to the community providing a great place to eat. When in the area, stop in and lend her an encouraging word.
Photo of “Rock The Block” with Mike Gains
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Gosple Enterment JD Lawrence: The “Good Thing” That Has Come From Amityville and Long Island By Bishop Andy C. Lewter, D. Min. When Nathaniel, who would later become a disciple of Jesus, was confronted by a group of early converts to Jesus, he expressed his hesitation and restraint by asking the question where does this man that you are talking about come from? The answer of course was, Nazareth. The response then from Nathaniel was “Can anything good come out of Nazareth”? Sometimes, with the economic woes and social blight that seemingly has become a synonym for certain parts of Long Island New York, a similar question might be posed, Can anything good come out of Long Island? Well my friends, the answer is an overwhelming yes and DJ Lawrence is the reason there is such an answer. Currently, JD Lawrence is preparing for a play opening at the Beacon Theatre in New York City this month with his hot new stage production, “Clean Up Woman”. While admittedly, the name of JD Lawrence is not a household name yet, this multi-talented artist who acts, sings,
dances, writes and directs, has paid his dues and is steadily climbing the ladder of success and recognition. Incredibly, he has sold out his last 27 stage plays, has two sitcoms on the Gospel Network, has recorded with Fred Hammond and is in the process of closing on his first movie distribution deal. Lawrence is making a tremendous impact upon the field of “gospeltainment” with a new approach and genre that is called “Dramedy”. Beginning with humble productions on Long Island, his work now is a featured part of the great white way in New York City and has been on tour to several major American cities where he has enjoyed enormous success. When talking about Lawrence, it is not long before someone makes the comparison and reference to Tyler Perry. But Lawrence is quick to “slow the roll” on the comparisons with Perry. In an interview with EUR Web, Lawrence noted the following. “Tyler Perry is his own man in his own zone and I am my own man in my own zone. Someone once asked me if I felt Tyler Perry opened doors
and I said, ‘No.’ I said, ‘I would never give man that much power. Any doors that were opened for me have been opened by God.’” Such statements by Lawrence could easily be misinterpreted, but upon closer inspection, the words of Lawrence affirms his belief that if it had not been for God on his side, none of what he is doing would be possible. When Lawrence attempted to break into the industry he was met by more people who laughed at him than those who took him seriously. Still today, Lawrence suffers from a significant stuttering problem. It was hard coming up convincing people that I could get on stage for two hours and speak when I couldn’t get two words out in an everyday conversation,” he painfully recalls. “Unfortunately, I never did convince them, which gave me the determination to do it on my own.” According to Lawrence, that is when he came to completely depend upon God. Amazingly, when Lawrence is in character, his speech impediment is undetectable. There is See Jd lawrence, Page 12
The Gospel for those Caught in Sexual Sin – Part 4 Claude T. Stauffer, Pastor of Calvary Chapel of Hope – www.calvarychapelofhope.org. Comments welcome at shepherdofhope@optonline. net The flood of sexual sin we see today is the result of a cult of self worship sweeping the land. Just look at the magazines at the checkout counter, the commercials on TV, the numerous get in shape infomercials, and the promotion of the rich, famous and physically beautiful. All of it has one thing in common, self worship. And that self worship culminates in homosexuality. This is nothing new; it is only the last stages of a downward spiral of sin. Self worship is what happens when people turn from or lose sight of God. Paul spoke about this in his letter to the Romans where he states, “who exchanged the truth of God for the lie, and worshiped and served the creature rather than the Creator, who is blessed forever. Amen.” (Romans 1:25) This verse comes from the beginning of Paul’s greatest treatise on the doctrine of salvation and sanctification. The first three chapters are meant to show the sinfulness of all humanity and how all humanity falls short of God’s glorious righteous standard. In Romans 1 verses 18-32 Paul speaks about the downward spiral of sin. In Romans 1:25 Paul speaks of those who refuse to accept God’s revelation and
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the consequences of such sin. The word “exchanged” is found in 1:23, 25, and 26 (also translated “change”). This word is translated from the Greek term METALASSO and means, “to exchange, change, alter, and substitute; to exchange by leaving.” Therefore, those who are being considered here do not merely turn away from God’s truth; they replace it with a “truth” of their own making, which is no more than a “lie.” We see this happening today. People are not merely leaving God’s truth they are replacing it with a “truth” they feel comfortable with. Their “truth” does not convict them or show them to be sinful. Their “truth” is a “truth” they can live in sin with, but it is a “lie.” Any alternative to God’s truth is a lie! But notice something here. Paul is speaking of a specific lie as indicated by the article “the.” What is “the lie”? This lie is nothing new and finds its origins at the beginning of the Bible. The truth of God is that man needs God. The lie is the belief that man does not need God; because man is “God,” in control of his or her own life and destiny. This was the foundation of Satan’s initial temptation in heaven and in the Garden of Eden (Isaiah 14:12-15; Genesis 3:5). This lie is at the root of all sin. The lie is rooted in sinful pride and a lust for selfsovereignty, a lust to sin and to serve one self, regardless how it affects others. “The lie” says, “I don’t need God;
God does not exist; God is not a factor; what matters most is ME.” The lie says, “I don’t need God,” and will try to kill God or remove God from consideration in order to accomplish the goal of self-rule. The wrath of God is on these sinners for misrepresenting God’s truth by attributing their own “truth” (“i.e. “the lie”) to God. Some people say, “God accepts me for who I am. He created me as a homosexual. Therefore to be a homosexual is okay.” This is a perfect example of not only misrepresenting God, but also trying to insert a falsehood in place of His truth. In order to attain the goal of selfrule, the sinner will try to explain away God and His word. This is attempted in a number of ways. Here Paul points to the elevation of the creature to godhood, idols made in the image of the creature. Idolatry is foolish (Psalm 115; Isaiah 44:9-20). God is justified in giving such idolatrous self-worshipers up to their own rebellious preferences. Paul goes on in Romans to speak of the consequences of such behavior saying, “For this reason God gave them up to vile passions. For even their women exchanged the natural use for what is against nature.27 Likewise also the men, leaving the natural use of the woman, burned in their lust for one another, men with men committing what is shameful, and receiving in themselves the penalty of their error which was due.” (Romans
1:26-27). “For this reason,” what reason? Because they refused to receive God’s revelation truth of Himself (Romans 1:19-24). They rejected God and not only rejected Him but twisted His truth with their own warped view of reality. And because of this, “God gave them up to vile passions.” God allows people to not choose to worship and thank Him. Here is the downward spiral of sin. “Vile passions,” are the natural consequence of rejecting God. Look around you, what do you see in our post-Christian world? A host of vile passions; when you reject God, you enter into a warped view of existence that leads you into all sorts of contorted, mangled, mixed up, hell bent ways of seeing the world around you. Remove God and expect an “anything goes” world. Paul speaks of “For even their women exchanged the natural use for what is against nature. Likewise also the men, leaving the natural use of the woman, . . . ” When a person rejects God, their sin leads them to abuse nature and do things that are actually opposed to nature. One function of sex is procreation. Homosexual and lesbian sexual activity is unnatural; it contradicts and goes against nature disregarding the procreative purpose of sex. Homosexuality and lesbianism are a perversion of natural human See sin, Page 11
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Terrorism
from page 7
national security, but you do have to worry about sin. The statistics on sin are undeniably true. The Bible states, “the wages of sin are death”; so let me ask you do you feel very safe? How many people do you know who have lived forever? How many people do you know who will eventually die? What did the Bible say about sin and death? Hopefully you are starting to understand, because the death that is being talked about is not simply the physical death. No. The death in the Bible is the death mentioned in the Luke passage where Jesus talks about a soul being required. Hell. Everlasting Punishment. Destruction. Eternal Damnation and Torment. Unfortunately, there is a pride that people can display at times, like these that communicate, since they escaped the tragedy of the Sept. 11, and have still remained untouched by terrorism, that they are impervious to all forms of tragedy. Well do not consider your good fortune a source for pride and arrogance. It is better to consider it a source of thanksgiving to the God of grace who spared your life, so you would have another opportunity to repent. Mock God now, and terrorism will be the least of your concerns. When you repent of your sins terrorism and a thousand calamities may
Sin
come your way, but you will have a steadfast peace that the Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, has control of all the circumstances, that could ever come to pass. This will give the worried peace, knowing their future rests in the hands of the Loving Sovereign of all eternity. This will also make the arrogant and proud humble enough to realize that in their ignorance it was the grace of a long -suffering, patient, merciful God that sustained their life through untold calamities. Terrorism, war, and violence in general, are the results of a sinful humanity gone astray from their Creator. No matter how many battles we win on any battlefield the real war for peace and tranquility can only be won in the human heart, by the shed blood of Jesus Christ. God offers peace and healing to the broken hearted. Luke 4:18 “The Spirit of the LORD is upon Me, Because He has anointed Me To preach the gospel to the poor; He has sent Me to heal the brokenhearted, To proclaim liberty to the captives And recovery of sight to the blind, To set at liberty those who are oppressed; But to the proud and unrepentant God offers judgment. James 4:6 But “He gives more grace. Therefore He says: God resists the proud, But gives grace to the humble.”
from page 10
desires. Turning from God and His revelation leads to idolatry and the height of idolatry is worship of self. Homosexuality and lesbianism are self-worship as people worship their own gender image in other people, women with women and men with men. Then Paul says of these people that they, “burned in their lust for one another, men with men committing what is shameful, and receiving in themselves the penalty of their error which was due.” This is the only occurrence of this particular word for “burned” here in the NT. The word “burned” is translated from the Greek term EKKAIO and means, “burned out; consumed; inflame deeply; set ablaze.” The idea here is that so deep is their lustful burning for one another that they actually burn out and are consumed by their lustful pursuits. This may allude to physical consequences (e.g. disease), emotional consequences, and certainly spiritual consequences. Sexually transmitted diseases are a big problem and a source of much pain and suffering for those indulging in immoral sexual behavior. God created sex. Sex is not sinful. God created sex (i.e. “one flesh” - Genesis 2:23-25). Sex only becomes sinful when it is misused outside of God’s ordained parameters. When sex is misused in ways God never intended it has the opposite effect of God’s intended purpose for it. God intended sex to bring two people together as one in a very wonderful way. When two people enter into sexual activity outside of marriage a uniting takes place out of sync with the process God laid out as right and proper. Sex Connects. Paul warned against adultery and sex outside of marriage because there is a uniting, a connection that occurs between the two parties www.mannanews.org
involved (1 Corinthians 6:15-20). Sex is a beautiful part of God’s creation and intended purpose. Sexuality outside of the marriage covenant makes unholy connections. It is Satan’s strategy to take what God meant for beauty and loving expression between two people and turn it into something dirty and shameful. That is what the downward spiral of sin does. When I was a boy I enjoyed building models. But as a young boy I was impatient and didn’t always read the instructions or follow directions. Nowadays you can buy models that are already painted. But in my day you had to paint the models and then assemble them. As I would put the models together I’d sometimes get impatient. The instructions called for me to paint certain parts in certain areas, let them dry, and then glue them together. Inevitably my impatience would get the better of me and I’d paint over areas I was supposed to leave paint-less and try to glue parts together before the paint was dry. What I found is that the glue never held pieces together that I impatiently tried to glue when the paint was still wet. Then I’d try to take the pieces apart to wipe them clean and I’d have an even bigger mess. When I didn’t follow instructions and acted impatiently, the model always got sticky and weakly assembled and never lasted very long, (at least as long as it might have if I had patiently and diligently followed instructions). The same is true with sex and marriage. If you try to glue two people together with sex before the Lord prepares the parts properly, your relationship will wind up weak and likely won’t last. It’s always best to wait on God and follow the instructions of His word (the Bible) when it comes to marriage and sex, and everything else in life for that matter. Manna News • Fall 2009
11
The Perfect Peace
events
Calendar By Pastor Elena Mayfield
Community Bulletin Board •June 13-14, 2009 Jones Beach Theatre: harvest 09 with Greg Laurie • May 2, 2009 The Witness Walk: Raising Awareness for Breast Cancer, Remembering Margaret N. Bell •May 20, 2009 Community Town Hall Meeting: Hollywood Full Gospel Baptist Cathedral
y Rayated in to our a great
Isaiah 26:3-4 “Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee. Trust ye in the LORD for ever: for in the LORD JEHOVAH is everlasting strength:” As we are approaching the end of another year, we find that people are going to fear and have anxiety. There are many who are concerned about what the future might hold. In these troubling times of uncertainy a lot of things are hammering at the mind. People are uneasy about their jobs, their finances, their family and life in general.
Safe Harbor
from page 8
God promised to keep you in perfect peace, if you keep your mind stayed on him. The Prince of Peace is able to sustain you and keep you in the midst of any storm. Philippians 4:6-7 “Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” John 14:27 “Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let Copiague, NY 11726 not your heart be troubled, neither let it 631-789-4552 be afraid.” Thursday, May 7th: 7:30pm Service will be in English & Spanish
Grace & Truth Church spends moreRoad 56 billion dollars annually 26 Westfield to maintain criminal Coram, Newour York 11727 justice system. The cost to the taxpayer to maintain an 631-732-3223 inmate in a New York State Facility is www.gracentruth.org more than $ 30,000 per year. The cost to families, May the judicial system, taxpayers Tuesday, 5th: 1:00pm - 9:00pm and countless victims has to be reversed. Our culture has to be prepared to turn a Sea Cliff Gospel Assembly blight into a self sufficient resource. 162 Sea Cliff Avenue Sea Cliff, NY 11578 from page 10516-759-2840 May 3-8, 2009 www.seacliffchapel.org Long Island seacliffchapel.htm no stammering at all. For nearly 20 years to express what I sometimes can’t express Event Sites Lawrence has prayed it out and stuck it off stage.” says Thursday, MayLawrence. 7th: 7:30pm out. “There’s nothing more frustrating Those people who counted him out than knowing that God has blessed you in the early days of his career can now Circle of Love Ministry with something special to share with the only sit back and marvel at how he has Worldwide world and not know how to express it. gone from being counted out to hav20 Reith My worksStreet have now become that vehicle ing sold out productions around the tence and so our volunteers hold annual Christmas parties for the children of the incarcerated and their caretakers. Gifts are given to each child on behalf of the incarcerated person. We invite you to visit our website, www.Safeharbormentoring.com, to learn more about the work we are doing. The United States of America
JD Lawrence
New Jerusalem Christian Academy A Christian school ministry Serving families since 1981 Grades 1-12 Farmingdale, NY 11735 516-249-0955
Pastor Alan Brandenburg- Principal Accepting applications for September 2009 Mission Statement: To assist parents in training up their children by providing the optimum environment conducive to building both spiritual and academic excellence into the lives of each student for the purpose of impacting this world for Jesus Christ. - A charter member of Association of Christian Schools Int.-
12 Manna News • Fall 2009 Spring 2009 • Manna News • 13 18 • Manna News • Spring 2009
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Family Matters The Top Five Mistakes Parents Make Teaching Kids About Money B y C oach E lizabeth We all make unwise financial deceisions. Find out if you’re making poor money choices with this advice from Kodak spokesperson and money expert Laura Rowley. 1. Becoming a Human ATM Machine Give children an allowance and let them know what they have to pay for out of their own savings—whether it’s the ice cream truck, the goodies in the $1 aisle at the discount store or that Scholastic book order form that comes home from school. This reduces nagging, allows them to develop math skills and learn from their mistakes. It’s amazing to see how much more they value the things they paid for themselves. 2. Overlooking Every Day Lessons Don’t miss opportunities to discuss simple economics in every day settings. While grocery shopping, explain why it’s wiser to choose the package that costs less per pound, or the more affordable generic brand; and why it makes sense to stock up when an item is on sale. Explain why savvy savings habits make sense: “By saving just $15 a week using the grocery store’s loyalty cards and coupons, we’ll have almost $800 at the end of the year to spend on something fun.” 3. Not Involving Kids in Longer-Term Goals Solid money management comes down to two things, planning ahead and making choices. If
you’re planning a vacation, talk to the kids about the budget: airfare, lodging and entertainment. Take a coffee can and label it the “Vacation Fund” and throw in your loose change at the end of each day. Take the coins to the bank and show the kids how the money is adding up; and how the bank will pay you interest for storing the cash in a savings account. Give them a specific budget for souvenirs—say $15—and suggest they increase it by earning cash for the trip through lemonade stands, dog sitting or lawn mowing. 4. Missing the Opportunity to Motivate Their Savings Habits If your kids put money in the bank, match their contributions. I took my kids to our local bank branch when they were 8, 6 and 4 and opened savings accounts for all of them. I matched the money they deposited, using the opportunity to discuss how a 401(k) plan works and why someone should contribute up to the amount of the company match (free money!). 5. Not Explaining How Plastic Works According to a study by Nellie Mae, the student loan firm, the average college freshman has $1,500 in credit card debt, and that figure doubles by the time they graduate. Some 56 percent of college seniors carry four or more credit cards. That’s when the real trouble starts, because if teens lose See money, Page 14
SHAW TEMPLE African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church Alba Avenue at 471 Albany Avenue 44th Street Amityville, New York Amityville, New York Telephone Telephone 631 842-7554 631.842.7554 Fax 843-8557 Fax 843.8557 Rev. David Robinson, PH.D, Pastor
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Manna News • Fall 2009 13
!
“A War for Your Soul”
New Controversial Short Film Seeks to Inspire African American At-Risk Youths
By Bishop Andy C. Lewter, D. Min. iery dot If you “A War for Your Soul”is a 25-minu will ute video created by Reginald Bullyour ock, a high school and college educator for over twenty years. Since ll be its online introduction on March 15, are weak. 2009, the video has been seen by over ost will500,000 people. Mr. Bullock created the video just two days after President Obama’s historic installation as es because America’s first black President. His n there intent was to inspire young people to Even when utilize their full potential and not to fall prey to the many trials and tribuwas lations they face on a daily basis. called on Heralded for its sobering and ed. Paulpowerful message targeted to our istress. youth, “A War for Your Soul” explores ught a the diversity of life—the joy and the ed his pain. Immediately upon completion, Bullock, an amateur filmmaker, sent ng was he r anyone faith and from page 14 emy could ing his the battle to understand and manage e fight. credit cards at 18, the damage can onship haunt them for years. An estimated winner,70 percent of employers check credit scores before they hire. Over time, fight of a low credit score will deplete tens rnal life.” of thousands of dollars out of your child’s pocket when they seek financing for an auto or a home. Consider
the film to about 40 HBCUs, organizations and churches. Reportedly, more than 400 websites and blogs have included the video on their sites. Rev. Marcia Dyson, the wife of noted author Michael Eric Dyson stated on CNN, “Everyone needs to stop and look at this DVD. Bullock stated “This experience has taught me several things, namely: 1) That God will use anyone for His purpose and for this film, he chose me; 2) That there is a fire that still burns in the belly of African Americans to reach back and help one another; and, 3) We may not be able to move mountains with money, but we certainly can with faith. For more information http://vimeo. com/3658572 or http://www.myspace. com/erisaifilms.
Money
allowing a teen to practice with a pre-paid, reloadable debit card such as Visa Buxx. It has fewer fees than competing cards and features parental controls—such as setting a weekly cash limit. Parents can also get email alerts showing when and where a teen used the card, setting the stage for discussions about wise spending.
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Congratulations Copiague Girls Basketball Team The Manna Newspaper is happy to congratulate the Copiague High School Girls varsity Basketball Team who recently won the New York State AA Basketball Championship in Glen Falls, New York. The girls team, who has relationships with several of the churches in the MANA organization, travelled to the state championship game by beating their cross county rivals Syosset and then went on to defeat Canandaigua which set up the championship game with Bethlehem. The Copiague Girls Basketball team captured the state crown by beating Bethlehem High School with a score of 74-58. We all are proud of the Copiague team and wish all of the players much success in their future.
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Powell
26 • Manna News • Spring 2009
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Funeral Home, Inc. 1908 - 2009
Proud to be Celebrating Over 100 Years of Service to the Community Wesley C. Powell Wesley A. (Andy) Powell (631) 691-0172 www.mannanews.org
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