SUMMER 2010 • Vol 03 NO. 2
Steve Israel Honors Hometown Heroes New Millennium Development Services Sponsors Community Event
Islamaphobia We Have Been Down This Road Before
A Publication of the Ministerial Alliance of North Amityville and VicinitY (MANA)
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Manna News • Fall 2010
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Editorial Editorial
Vol.03 Vol.03 •• No.02 No.03 Fall FALL 2010 2010 www.mannanews.org
MANNA Newspaper staff Pastor Roy Kirton
Pastor Roy Kirton MANA President MANA President Dr. David Robinson Executive Editor
Dr. David Robinson
Bishop Andy C. Lewter Executive ManagingEditor Editor Pastor Elena L. Mayfield
Assocate Editor Bishop Andy C. Lewter Managing Editor Joe Turner Photo Journalist
Pastor Elena L. Mayfield Dynamic Creative Solutions Design & Layout Dynamic Creative Solutions Design & Layout Minister Calvin Watt Distribution
Minister Calvin Watt Distribution
Contributors Pastor John Davis Reverend Noreen Davis Nadine Johnson k
Contributors MANNA Newspaper Pastor John Davis is a publication Nadine Johnson sponsored by the
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Ministerial Alliance of North Amityville and MANNA Newspaper is a publication Vicinity (MANA) and is currently on sponsored by the published Ministerial Alliance a quarterly basis. of North Amityville k and Vicinity (MANA) and is currently published on Editorials and articles a quarterlyand basis.should are welcome be sent to the managing office of the newspaper: Editorials and articles k are welcome and should be sent to the managing Please be advised that all office of the newspaper: submissions become the intellectual property of Newspaper Please MANNA be advised that all submissions who reserves the right becometotheedit intellectual property of and modify may the MANNAsubmissionsas Newspaper who reserves be necessary. right to edit and modify k submissions as may be necessary. In addition, we welcome financial support from the In addition, we welcome financial business and church church support from theInterested business andpersons community. should call or contact our community. Interested persons marketing agent at: should call or contact our market2 Monroe Street ing agentNY at: 11701 Amityville, (631) 842-7091
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the President’s Pastor Roy Kirton FromFrom the President’s Desk:Desk: Pastor Roy Kirton
During the past few weeks our stating, “By this shall men know that you are my disciples if ye therefore, first the of all, Dear Manna Readers nation has been involved in a huge have love one1 Itoexhort another.” Paul that, critiques command in his controversy that has damaged the re- letter to Corinthians when he talksintercessions, about the attribute of love. supplications, prayers, lationship between Hegostates that giving (1 Corinthians 13:4-6) “Lovefor is kind of thanks, be made all and does not On Junethe 23rdChristian I left my and office to a and Muslim Seminary communities. Much has been envy. Love does not vaunt itself in an unseemly manor and it is class in Lower Manhattan. I men; said about our first amendment rights, not easily provoked.” 2 For kings, and for all that are in auboarded the train with some reading mawhich allow the building of an Islamic Can we even imagine what the world would look like and thority; leadcause a quiet terial for myzero, travel time the Big Apple. Center near ground and thetodesire how many wouldthat be we wonmay to the of and Christ if we truly peaceable life in all godliness and As I sat I noticed a copy of Newsday and of some Christian leaders to conduct manifest this attribute as opposed to looking honto enforce our first proceeded to quickly scroll the amendment pages. esty.rights. The power of love, especially for those who Koran burnings. 3 For this is good andisacceptable in arsenal that a When I got to the noticesdo there I feel that it is important to view what should beobituary the Biblical hold a religious point of view, the greatest response to all of this controversy.was a filing of a woman named Emma Christianthe has.sight (Romans “Love worketh no ill to neighof God13:10) our Saviour; In some of Christ’s final words his crucifixion, Gray.before As stated in her bio,heMs.bors, Gray,therefore love is fulfilling of the law.” raised the bar for the Christian response to his fellow men by Ms. Gray’s example gives a lesson to who died at age 95 was born in Edge-
field, South Carolina. She was raised by all believers of the importance of prayer. her grandfather who was a former slave. I would tremble to think how history She migrated to Washington D.C. in would have gone if this cleaning 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 September is the month that our assignments are completed and submitted on time. that we, as believers, and to spend a moment in prayer over childrenfice return school after enjoyThe Bible declares in the pray bookearnestly of Hoseafor4:6, “My peoPresident Barack Obama. He is our Proverbs 4:7, the President’s chair. In her prayer for ing the hot days of summer. It is ple are destroyed for the lack of knowledge”. there thing: by God,therefore, but he needs sheand would ask God to“Wisdom bless leader time forthe us President as parents guardians is theplaced principal get wisdom-and to turn him, our minds from vacation to for with understanding”. our getting-get prayer support. I challenge each of give him wisdom and pray hisall thy the school of education. For some The best Christian an educated you to do as Ms.isEmma Gray “soChristian that we who reads, safety. Her story reminded me of what this is aPaul difficult but necessary task. understands and follows God’s Word. Children instructed Timothy do in 1 Timo- may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all are our preIt is imperative that we stress to our cious resource, and education prepares them to make their Godliness and honesty.” thy 2:1-3 (KJV) children the importance of educa- mark in the world. Remember: “The Mind is a Terrible tion. As parents and guardians, it is Thing to Waste”. our responsibility to ensure that all homework and special Be blessed, and push your children towards greatness.
Message From the Executive Editor
The Church and Financial Stewardship
Pastor Pearson Opens US House of Representatives with Prayer
Message from the Executive Editor By Congressman Steve Israel
On September 15th, I was honored to host Reverend Roderick A. Pearson in Washington D.C., where he opened the U.S. House of Representatives with a prayer and served as a guest chaplain. The event was captured live on C-Span and should still be available by the time you read this article. Reverend Pearson is the founder of St. Mark Remnant Ministries Inc. in Central Islip and also serves as the serve on front president of the Islip Branch of Pastors the NAACP. In the 2009, helines of the leadership spiritual war engulfs this celebrated 14 years of pastoral and that continues to be an active member of the Long community, world. AllIsland too often their greatest batserving on multiple community boards and organizations tles takes place within the church itin Suffolk County. self, where they are caught in the I am proud to welcome crossfire Reverend Wash- and of Pearson personal,to theological, ington and commend him for his many years of dedicaor congregational conflicts. These tion in our community. endless skirmishes leave many pastors---and their families---so exhausted and wounded that they lose their joy for ministry, or they leave the pastorate altogether.
Pastors Need Prayer and Encouragement safely through while building a culture of peace within the church. The bible admonishes us in Hebrews 12:14, Follw peace with all men, and holiness, without no man shall see the Lord.
Hebrews 13:17, states with trumpet clarity, Obey them that have the rule over you, and submit yourselves: for they watch for your souls, as they givestorm. account, thatDavid they may do this quite well, By Pastor Elena L. Mayfield midst must of your King knew it with joy, and not with grief. Human conflict is a given in famiin Psalms 61:1-3 “Hear my cry, O God; attend unto my lies, marriages, churches, The world seems to be facing a tremendous burden small prayer. From the end of the earth will I cry unto thee, of you who lead love me the to the rock that groups, theof world. I encourage in regards to the health and well and being this great when my For heartthose is overwhelmed: nation. Our communities are full of great depravity. is of higher than I. For thou hast a shelter for me, and local church, and want it tobeen reflect the all God fearing members regardless People are being plagued with heartbreaks andfor disapa strong tower the enemy.” glory of from the God of peace, pray denomination to pray your Pastor pointments. The question isthat whohe/she or where can confronted you turn with Just like David when you and are family weighted down with earnestly for your Pastor when to for solace? the cares of this life, and your back is lead up against the wall conflict, will be able to lead their flock that God will lead them as they The good news is there is an all-sufficient God, who take comfort in “Casting all your care upon him; (God) is the source of comfort. He can give you peace in the for he careth for you. 1st Peter 5:6-7
God Is All Sufficient
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Christain News Bishop Kenneth Moales, 65 Years of Holiness By Dr. Teresa E. Hairston Gospel Today Magazine
During the weekend of September 18-20, thousands had gathered in Bridgeport and the surrounding areas to celebrate his 65th Birthday. First Lady, Peggy, their three children, 12 grandchildren and one grandchild all took part in the festivities, along with many special friends including Bishop Alfred and Susie Owens, Bishop Hezekiah Walker, Vickie Winans, Bishop Albert Jamison, Mr. Quaford Coleman, Bishop Kenneth Dupree and many more. Bishop Kenneth Moales was a leader of leaders with a strong Davidic anointing. He was the founding pastor of the Cathedral of the Holy Spirit formerly the Prayer Tabernacle Church of Love, Bridgeport, Connecticut for 42 years. He relished the fact that the church began out of a choir rehearsal where God touched his heart and “called” him to preach. His wife, Peggy has been by his side through it all. Although the
Bishop Kenneth Moales
couple endured many years of struggle, they never gave up! Bishop Moales was a warrior! In fact, he popularized the “War Cry!” that has become the outcry of the masses
who declare “VICTORY in Jesus!”-even in the midst of trying times! Bishop Moales was the Presiding Prelate of the Pentecostal Church of Jesus Christ (since 1995). Under his guidance,
many notable pastors were being nurtured in their ministerial growth, among them, Bishop Hezekiah Walker, who may ascend to the helm of the organization. Bishop Moales also served on the Executive Board of the Joint College of African American Pentecostal Bishops, and was lovingly referred to by Bishop J. D. Ellis as “Holy” Moales! A man of music, Bishop Moales succeeded the Father of Gospel Music, Dr. Thomas A. Dorsey, as President of the National Convention of Gospel Choirs and Choruses, Inc., which celebrated 77 Years of Gospel Music Ministry in Orlando, FL (August 2010). Bishop Moales was intensely proud and protective of the “Dorsey” Convention and he gave it his best to make sure that it continued to flourish. Bishop Moales was an advisory board member for Gospel Today Magazine. He had been featured in the magazine several times and was a key part of the magazine’s growth and success.
Faith Leaders Must Lead “Green” Transformation In Poor Communities By Patrick G. Duggan
The recession is over, but the economic crisis continues because we are in the midst of a major transformation in our economy. We have ended the economic growth that was fueled by easy credit, financial gamesmanship on Wall Street, speculation and debt. Now, during this epic transformation, more sustainable and productive industries are emerging to drive economic growth. Perhaps the most fascinating of the new economic engines is the industry widely known as “green”, “cleantech” or “sustainable”. This category of businesses includes renewable energy, energy saving products and services, alternative energy sources, and the services, products, systems and processes created to reduce the consumption of carbon fuels. In this region, it is projected that the number of green jobs will grow from 25,000 in 2006 to over 198,000 by 2038. New green businesses are being launched daily. Commercial property owners and homeowners are purchasing an increasing number of renewable and energy saving products and services. The transition to a more green economy will significantly reduce harmful emissions from carbon fuels, reduce our reliance on foreign oil, and lead to energy independence. 4
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The greatest need for green is in low and moderate income communities. These communities have the largest number of homes with inefficient windows, heating systems and hot water heaters. They lack insulation and need energy efficient lighting. Poor communities represent the largest potential market for low cost energy saving solutions. Poor communities have the highest unemployment, lowest educational attainment, lowest number of business starts, few sustainable businesses and minimal investment. In other words, these communities stand to gain the most from green jobs training, green job creation, and green business startup. These conditions present a once in a generation opportunity for savvy faith based and nonprofit organizations who understand community and economic development as an extension of their ministry or mission. How? These organizations can begin to transform their communities by “greening” the facilities that they own. Low cost energy saving strategies like energy efficient light bulbs and insulation can save hundreds of dollars. Moderately priced upgrades like energy efficient windows, boilers, water heaters, and appliances can lower costs even more. More costly changes like solar panel installations have higher up See transfromation, Page 15
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Community News Steve Israel Honors Hometown Heroes
Local Heroes including policemen who saved children from a fire, volunteers who helped children in Haiti, and a local K-9 Division
Congressman Steve Israel with Pastor Paul Vaccaro and Pastor Roy Kirton.
Hauppauge, NY— Tuesday, Congressman Steve Israel (D-Huntington) honored Hometown Heroes for their contribution to the Long Island community and service to the country. Honorees included a 26-year-old who created the annual Distant Memory Swim raising more than $50,000 for Alzheimer’s research and the Alzheimer’s Association of Long Island; police officers who rescued 3 children from a Wyandanch fire; local activists who traveled to help children in Haiti; a man who provides care packages for troops overseas; and a local K-9 division that has nabbed 15 criminal suspects in the last 7 months. Rep. Israel said, “Sometimes we need a reminder that, despite some tough times, it’s not all bad news. We have men and women in our community who show great courage to make Long island and our country a better place. I’m proud to honor some of them today.” The honorees at the event on Tuesday were:
Congressman with hometown heros.
Association, a local organization that operates the Suffolk County Environmental Center in Islip and works to conserve Long Island wildlife. Bouler will also have an exhibition with bird-inspired artwork that is being sent to children across the country.
Ministerial Alliance of North Amityville and Vicinity (MANA) Members of MANA were asked to participate with the “Forward Edge” Trip to Haiti and the “Children in Need Haitian Project.” With the harsh conditions after the earthquake, members of MANA , including President Pastor Roy S. Kirton and Rev. Noreen Davis, instantly accepted the invitation and traveled to Haiti on April 22, 2010 to help with the relief efforts. (Attending the event: Pastor Roy S. Kirton from Circle of Love Ministry, Copiague and Pastor Paul Vaccaro from Copiague Christian Church)
Officer Danny Burnside, Officer Joseph Scariolo, Officer Justo Ridera, Officer Eric GuitThe 26-year-old Greenlawn resident created the erman, and Officer Matthew Friederich, 1st annual Distant Memory Swim with the help from the Precinct, Suffolk County Policy Department Bryan P. Proctor of Greenlawn
Alzheimer’s Association of Long Island seven years ago. His inspiration came from watching his grandfather suffer from Alzheimer’s disease for many years. Today Mr. Proctor has raised more than $50,000. In the first year Proctor was the only swimmer, but today he is one of 23 swimmers.
Olivia Bouler of Islip This 11-year-old girl contacted the National Audubon Society about using her artwork to help save birds affected by the tragic oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico. Her efforts raised $ 175,000 to help wildlife impacted by the spill. Olivia and Jackson, her brother have continued to help locally. They are also organizing a fundraiser to support the Seatuck Environmental www.mannanews.org
Suffolk County Police Officers were called to a house fire in Wyandanch at 10:43 am on a Sunday morning in March. They found a 21-year-old man lying in the street with severe burns over his entire body. A woman told the officers that her three children were still in the house. One of the five officers attended to the injured man and the other four entered the burning house and located the children, ages 2, 7 and 6 months. The children were safely removed from the house.
Sean Flanagan of Huntington Station Sean Flanagan, a 40-year-old social worker at Centereach Academic Center of Eastern BOCES,
cycled from San Francisco on July 4th to the Ronald McDonald House of Long Island in New Hyde Park, which accommodates families whose children are being treated at local hospitals. To fundraise for the Ronald McDonald House, Flanagan traveled 80 miles a day; he slept in a tent he pitched roadside and documented the sights on Facebook. He raised approximately $2,000.
Nicolas Kester of Copiague - Founder of On Sight Support A Police Officer of Port Authority since 1986, Nicolas Kester founded “On Sight Support” over 7 years ago, helping soldiers who are deployed overseas. The organization supplies servicemembers with care packages that include items such as snacks, recreational sports equipment and personal hygiene items.
Suffolk County Police Department’s Canine Section The Canine Section was established in the Suffolk Police Department in 1965. During the past 45 years, the section has provided invaluable service to the residents of Suffolk County. Each team in the division is trained to track people and locate evidence. Additionally, every unit is trained in one of three specialized skills: narcotics detection, explosive detection or search and rescue. In the past 7 months in the 2nd congressional district, the Canine division teams apprehended 5 burglary suspects, 2 driving while intoxicated suspects who had fled accident scenes, 1 suspect who had committed multiple criminal mischief, 3 larceny suspects, 2 robbery suspects and 2 criminal contempt suspects (order of protection violations).
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Cover Story Islamaphobia: We Have Been Down This Road Before
By Bishop Andy C. Lewter, D. Min.
Over the last several weeks, we in America have seen an almost unprecedented animosity toward our Islamic neighbors and brothers and sisters. There is no doubt that there is a wing of Islamic radicalism that operates under the Muslim banner, but to blame all Muslims for the actions of a relatively few radicals is no more right than to blame all of Christianity for the radical actions taken by the Spanish Inquisition in the 15th century. When I think of the continued debate and exploitation of the proposed mosque (cultural center) in lower Manhattan and the proposed public burning of the Qurans in Florida, it reminds me that the tension and conflict that we are now seeing and the lines drawn in the sand between Islam and Christianity is a road that we have gone down before with terrible results. Even General Petraeus, our military commander in Afghanistan, has gone on record to report that the actions of Pastor Terry Jones of Gainsville, FL is not only irresponsible, but puts our soldiers in the area in harms way unnecessarily. It is a blight on all Christianity that a pastor with a membership of less than 50 people can ignite a firestorm of epic proportions that can’t be retreated from once it gets out of control. Being a student of history, I am well
Twin tower islamic radicals bring down towers.
Islamic radicals burn American flag.
aware that we as a western civilization have engaged in somewhat embarrassing assaults on our Middle Eastern neighbors in the past. Most honest scholars will tell you that in the 11th century, when Pope Urban II called for a crusade against Islam and attack targets in the Middle East, it was not because of some real righteous indignation, but rather it was to re-channel the militarized hostilities that were running rampant in Europe against an enemy of convenience. Pope Urban II in an effort to quell the constant fighting that was going on among Feudal Lords in western Europe manu6
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factured a conflict with Islam as a diversionary tactic. When Ferdinand of Aragon wed Isabella of Castille and the two of them decided that a unified Iberian peninsula would be in their best interest, the country of Spain was born. But part of the price that would be paid for such a lofty ideal was the utter destruction of the Islamic controlled portion of the peninsula, Granada. Unfortunately, history is littered with example after example where religious fervor and passion has been exploited by people who have a See Islamaphobia, Page 11
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Local News New Millennium Development Services Sponsors Town of Babylon Long Island Green Homes Community Event
By Tonya Lewter
Great Collaboration between Community, Government and Private Sector came to life on Tuesday, June 22, 2010 at Hollywood Full Gospel Baptist Cathedral with over 200 local residents in attendance. New Millennium Development Services, (NMDS) Inc. a 501© 3 Nonprofit Community Based Organization sponsored the Town of Babylon Long Island Green Homes Community Event with Home Performance Technologies (HPT). Both Long Island Energy Companies were represented by Lisanne Altmann, LIPA and Pat Harper, National Grid. They both highlighted their company’s commitment to customers with rebate programs. Community Stakeholders present to lend support included; Dr. John R. Williams, Supt. Of Amityville, School District, Pastor Roy Kirton, President of MANA, Dr. Veronica Henry, SUNY Executive Assistant to the President and Chief Diversity Officer, Suffolk
County Legislator Duwayne Gregory’s Legislative Aid, Chavon Pierce, Alicia Marks, President of Marks of Excellence School, Sammy Chu, Program Director of LIGH, Dorian Dale, Energy Director of LIGH, Vince Capogna, President of www.mannanews.org
USGBC, Gwendolyn Brown, President of Central Long Island NAACP, Ibrahim Kan, New York State Senate Majority Office and Dr. Andy C. Lewter, Pastor Emeritus of HFGBC and President of New Millennium Development Services, Inc.
The primary purpose of this Community Outreach Event was to educate local residents on the Town of Babylon’s LIGH Program which is an innovative municipal program that pays for energysaving improvements to a home, resulting in lower utility bills for you and less pollution for everyone-all virtually at no out-of-pocket cost to the homeowner. The Town of Babylon pays a licensed contractor directly for the cost of the improvements up to $ 12,000 for weath-
erization and an additional $ 12,000 for solar installation and the homeowner pays the Town over time out of savings from lower utility bills (electric, gas and/ or fuel oil). Taking advantage of these green energy efficient measures will enable a homeowner to pay less to utility companies and reduce carbon into the atmosphere. HPT, a town-licensed, BPI-accredited private contractor has made a comSee GREEN HOMES, Page 14 Fall 2010 • Manna News
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Youth Ministry Another Successful Rock The Block Community Day By Pastor. Roy Kirton, President, Ministerial Alliance of North Amityville and Vicinity On Saturday, July 31, 2010 close to 2000 people attended the “Rock the Block/Mike James Day” at the Bolden Mack Park in North Amityville. The event was sponsored by MANA (Ministerial Alliance of North Amityville), composed of some thirty local churches. MANA collaborated with local celebrity Mike James and Rock the Block, a ministry of Teen Challenge of Long Island, to produce an
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all day event as a proactive response to recent violent acts in the community. Congressman Steve Israel and Island Harvest provided food for 400 families. Community members enjoyed games, rides and entertainment including a basketball tournament between the Mike James All-Stars and Hoops in the Sun (HTS), a community based basketball team located in the Bronx, New York. A picnic lunch was served and prizes were distributed throughout the day. Prizes included: 8 bicycles, 1 refrigerator, 1 washing machine, 2 televisions, 2 DVD players, 1 IPOD, 1 XBOX and 200 video games.
A message of hope was delivered by Pastor Jimmy Jack and Elder Jerritt Lewis. Mike James received a Community Service Award presented by Danny Green, a North Babylon native who plays for the Cleveland Cavaliers. Actor and musician Chico Benymon, who also hails from Amityville, provided commentary and entertainment, you can see him on NBC-TV this Fall. This community day was viewed as a positive measure for the community that has recently suffered from local violence. The large gathering enjoyed a fun, peaceful day right here in North Amityville.
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Youth Ministry
All photos in this section provided by Joe Turner www.mannanews.org
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Social Action Faith Leaders & Congregations Must Lead the Rebirth of Poor Communities
By Rev. Patrick G. Duggan Most of the poor people on Long Island live in neighborhoods where many other people are poor. Sociologists call this “concentrated poverty”. On Long Island, pockets of concentrated poverty tend to be within communities that have the highest numbers of African Americans, Latino Americans, and other people of color. This pattern of segregation and poverty _communities with 70% working and middle class homeowners and 30% poor people amidst larger communities of affluence and extreme wealth_ is what makes Long Island one of the most segregated regions in the United States of America. Poor communities have a low proportion of business investment, a lack of banking services, few full-service supermarkets and/or places to purchase fresh produce, and in the current economic crisis, the highest numbers of home foreclosures and the highest unemployment. Racists may believe that people are poor because they are black, brown or red. In the richest country in the world, however, people and communities are poor because human, social, and financial capital is not managed and invested to create wealth for the benefit of these people and communities. Another characteristic of communities with concentrated poverty is the high proportion of places of worship. One such community in Nassau has a population of about 10,000 and over 50 congregations. This too is a pattern that is repeated in every poor and segregated Long Island community. While most of these congregations are small (under 40 members), and a number of them do not own the properties they worship in, these faith communities 10 Manna News • Fall 2010
Local cregy members meet in Washington DC.
are perhaps the most important institutions in the region. They have longevity, they provide services and spiritual guidance, they have experienced and effective leadership, and collectively they raise tens of millions of dollars each year to pay their staffs, operate their buildings and pursue the divine calling to mission and ministry. We are living in a unique time for faith leaders and congregations on Long Island and everywhere in this country where patterns of segregation and poverty exist. After decades of proposed solutions to eliminating poverty in our communities, government has proven itself to be impotent. In the ongoing cycles of economic expansion, depression and recession since the birth of our country, business and the free market has proven itself to be unwilling, unable and often hostile to the notion of uplifting these communities. As the only leaders and organizations with a historical commitment to the poor, faith leaders and congregations must see the rebirth of their communities as not something to be done in addition to ministry, or something that only the” big churches” do, but as an essential element of their mission and ministry. Housing, economic and community development is social justice ministry. Faith leaders and congregations must lead the rebirth of poor communities on Long Island and across the country. In my next article, I will discuss why the emerging green economy is President Roy Kurton with Congressman Steve Israel.
See Faith Leaders, Page 14 www.mannanews.org
Congregation News Prayer Tabernacle Church of God in Christ Holds Summer Community Day While the entire MANA family has been praying for Pastor Walter Willie, who has been extremely sick these past several months, God has been answering prayers and healing Pastor Willie. Nothing was anymore evident of that fact than the picture below that shows Pastor Willie standing amongst a number of young people during the recent Summer Community Day sponsored by the church. Prayer Tabernacle is located on the corners of Parkway Boulevard and Great Neck Road in Amityville, New York. We do ask that you would keep Pastor Willie, his family and congregation in your prayers as he remains on the road to recovery.
Photo Right: Pastor Walter Willie with community youth.
Holy Trinity Gets A New Pastor On Sunday, September 19 at 6 PM the entire church community of North Amityville and vicinity assembled at the Holy Trinity Baptist Church on Albany Avenue to witness the official installation of Pastor Vernon Shelton. The service was presided over
by Dr. Andy C. “Daddy” Lewter and official greetings were brought by Pastor Roy Kirton of the Ministerial Alliance of North Amityville. Pastor Shelton was featured in our last issue and the picture below represents the degree to which he has been welcomed to our community.
Local Pastor pray for Vernon Shelton. Photo courtesy of Joe Turner
Islamaphobia from page 6 political agenda rather than a spiritual agenda. My concern is that we are allowing the current debate about a cultural center in lower Manhattan to take us down a road that we have travelled before. Haven’t enough lives been sacrificed in the name of religion for us to realize that to stir emotions of religious hatred and division only takes us backward and not forward. Years ago, we learned that people of different faiths have the ability to coexist and share the same space without one feeling obliged to totally obliterate the other. Permit me to remind all of us that our country was a radical social and political experiment in the latter quarter of the 18th century. Up until that time the world operated on the assumption that each sovwww.mannanews.org
ereign had the right and entitlement to decide what would be the official religion of the territory that he or she presided over. In many instances those who shared a different faith from the sovereign faced death or at the very least severe persecution. America was built on the notion that in the New World there could be a place where people would have “freedom of religion” that would allow them to pursue their conscience and heart without the fear that their spiritual and theological difference need not cost them their lives. America was built upon the foundation of the separation of church and state but also the high moral idea that religious freedom would be the law of the land, not religious tolerance which was being practiced in most other parts
of Europe. So, for over three hundred years America has proven to be a beacon light where what began as a social and religious experiment grew to become the model for the world. If we allow the current climate of fear and hostility to cause us to retreat into reactionary behavior we will be betraying the rich and noble history that so many of our founding fathers placed their lives on the line for. We are living here on Long Island so many of us have a connection to the tragedy of “9-11” and I share in the compassion and pain that still haunts so many of the families that suffered a great loss on that day. But to set aside our constitution, history and heritage to appease a current temptation to retaliate against an entire religion for what radicals of their faith performed is for us to
take the low road and not be what God has called us to be. While I realize that there is much debate on the topic, informed minds know that the God of Christianity “Elohim” and the God of Islam “Allah” are one and the same. There are two great faith traditions that sprang forth from Abraham, born from his sons Issac and Ishmael. I appeal to those with sincere hearts and level minds to rise above the superficial stirring of religious baiting and tensions and live up to our calling to treat all people with respect and a healthy regard for their dignity and value as a human being, because in the end, we are all apart of the same family, the human family.
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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., Dr. DavidRobinson, I. Robinson Rev. David Pastor PH.D, Pastor
Se Habla Espanol
www.manna 12 Manna News • .org Fall 2010
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Pastorial Perspective
Dealing With Deep Waters
“Save me, O God! For waters have come up to my neck.” – Psalm 69:1 Ever feel overwhelmed by life, like you’re drowning in a sea of problems? You don’t know what the future holds. You’ve lost hope. All you see is darkness. You got the bad report from the doctor. Your loved one is sick. It doesn’t look good. Or every move you make seems to be a dead end. You can’t pay the bills. You can’t find a job. Your marriage is hanging on by a thread. Your children are rebelling. Your parents are so not understanding you. You’ve been betrayed. There’s unrest and violence in the neighborhood. You’re addicted. You feel ashamed, guilty, or broken or all of that. You’re neck deep in deep waters. Life can be like dark foreboding deep waters. It’s hard to move. You try but you can’t. You fear drowning. You fear the sharks. They’re circling. What will you, what can you do? How do we deal with such times? How do we deal with the deep waters? Psalm 69 describes deep waters and how to deal with them. It’s a psalm closely connected to Jesus. If you’re going through deep waters or know someone who is, I encourage you to get your Bible, open to that psalm and study along with me. Deep waters in life are like mire or quick sand (v.2). They are times where you cry so much and so hard that your throat dries up and your eyes fail (v. 3). They are times when people turn against you for no reason known to you, where people gang up on you, where they use intimidation tactics and even seek to destroy you (v. 4). These are times where you realize your limitations and are convicted by your own sins (v. 5). They are times when you feel ashamed and fear bringing shame to God because of your actions (v. 6-7). These are times of loneliness (v. 8) and indignation (v. 9). These are times when people mock you because of your faith (v. 10-12). Can you relate to any of that? If so you are not alone. Jesus can relate to all of it; “For in that He Himself has suffered, being tempted, He is able
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to aid those who are tempted” (Heb. 2:18). Jesus knows about deep waters and He is able to help you. How can we, how should we deal with the deep water times of life? We need to go to God in prayer. It states, “But as for me, my prayer is to You, O LORD, in the acceptable time; O God, in the multitude of Your mercy, hear me in the truth of Your salvation” (v. 13). John Bunyan in Pilgrim’s Progress wrote, “You can do more than pray after you’ve prayed, but you cannot do more than pray until you have prayed.” Martin Luther King Jr. once said, “To be a Christian without prayer is no more possible than to be alive without breathing.” Prayer is your lifeline to God. Pray to God when going through deep waters. No superficial prayer will do. Wait on God in prayer until the “acceptable time,” until you make contact. He is always there, but we are often distant. Trust in the “multitude of” or abundant mercy of God. Go before Him prayerfully with your Bible open for “the truth” about your deep waters. Be open to His truth. You need to know the reality of your situation. God’s word has the truth you need (John 17:17). Pray for God’s deliverance and trust in the reliability of His lovingkindness, goodness and mercy (v. 14-16). Understand Jesus is there with you and knows exactly what you are going through. He went through deep waters too (v. 17-19). He will
never leave you or forsake you (Heb. 13:5). His promise is that nothing can separate you from His love (Rom. 8:38-39). Draw near to Him. Seek His presence. He knows your brokenness because He was broken on the cross for you (v. 20; 1 Cor. 11:24). Jesus knows the ruthlessness and mercilessness of people who attack the vulnerable. He went through that on the cross (v. 21; Mat. 27:34, 48). As you pray give your circumstances to God in full surrender. Rather than defend yourself, trust God to defend you (v. 22-28). He will direct you in what to say and what not to say (Mat. 10:19-20). Jesus was forsaken by all but trusted in the Father. You may be forsaken by all but you must trust in Him. Trust in Him to save you (v. 29). Then you must worship Him. “I will praise the name of God with a song, and will magnify Him with thanksgiving” (v. 30). C.H. Spurgeon once said, “Any fool can sing in the day. It’s easier to sing when we read the notes by daylight. But the skillful singer is he who can sing when there is not a ray of light to read by. Songs in the night come only from God. They are not in the power of man.” Paul and Silas were pursued by demons, dragged through the streets, falsely accused, beaten and thrown in jail. They were going through deep waters. But in faith they prayed and worshipped the Lord in jail. God brought an earthquake that shook the prison doors open and set them free. And God then used them to save the jailer and his family to boot! (Acts 16). Victory! God can get you through the deep waters with a song. By faith praise and worship God. You may not feel like worshipping God while treading the deep waters. But in faith, even with tears, worship Him. There is power in this. It will lift your spirit and bring life to your heart. It will testify to those around you. It is your offering to God in full surrender to
Him. It is most pleasing to the Lord and He will hear the cry of His child (v. 31-33). God hears the song of the broken hearted. “A broken and contrite heart – these, O God, you will not despise” (Psalm 51:17). In the end, even the “seas and everything that moves in them,” even the deep waters and all that is in them, will praise Him (v. 34). God can and will bring good from the deep water times of your life (Rom. 8:28). Puritan Thomas Watson once said, “A sickbed often teaches more than a sermon.” God can teach you and build you strong even through the deep waters of illness. God will save you, build you and you will be restored to continue on in this life or to move on to the next (v. 35). Our testimony should be “For to me, to live is Christ, and to die is gain” (Phil. 1:21). Even your descendants will benefit from the story you’ll tell of how God got you through the deep waters of your life (v.36). Jesus will get you through and help you to deal with the deep water times of your life. In another psalm it states, “When my heart is overwhelmed; lead me to the rock that is higher than I” (Psalm 61:2). That Rock is Jesus. “When the enemy comes in like a flood, the Spirit of the LORD will lift up a standard against him” (Isaiah 59:19). In the power of the Spirit, be that standard. The Father says to you, “Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by your name; You are Mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they shall not overflow you. . . . For I am the LORD your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior; . . .” (Isaiah 4:1-3). Jesus will help you deal with the deep waters. Claude T. Stauffer, Pastor of Calvary Chapel of Hope – www.calvarychapelofhope.org. Comments welcome at Pastor Claude’s blog – www.theshepherdofhope.blogspot.com or at shepherdofhope@ optonline.net
Fall 2010 • Manna News 13
Christian Education Summer Intensive Discusses Protestant Theological Intensive to Return to Harvard University Campus in January Reformation and Baptist Leader, Dr. Joseph Harrison Jackson Staff Writer
Despite it only being the Fall of the year, plans are already being made for the 2011 Winter Theological Intensive that will be returning to the campus of Harvard University next January. The Theological Intensives, sponsored by the New Life School of Theology along with the Full Gospel Baptist Church Fellowship, began on the campus of Harvard University several years ago. Since then, it has visited several campuses around the country including Yale University, Princeton University, Emory University, The University of Pennsylvania, Regents University and Rutgers University. The intensive consists of two days of rigorous studies that includes lectures from Bishop Andy C. Lewter, Bishop of Christian Education for the Full Gospel Baptist Church Fellowship and several other scholars from
around the country. This intensive will focus on “Politics in the Pulpit” and has scheduled lectures from faculty members of Harvard Divinity School and Pittsburgh Theological Seminary. Also included in the schedule is an “Ecumenical Council” discussion on the Role of the Church in the Area of Social Justice. These discussions are always spirited and stimulates the thinking of those in attendance who participate in the dialogue. For those persons who are interested a website has been updated and is available to answer many questions like lodging and transportation. The website is available at http://www. theologicalintensives.com or by calling the Intensive Coordinator, Tonya Lewter at (516) 223-3855. Tuition for the intensive is normally $295.00 but there is an “Early Bird Special” for those who register by November 15, 2010 of only $250, plus a $5 administrative fee.
Join us for the
2011 Winter Theological Intensive
By Staff Writer
On August 17th and 18th, The New Life School of Theology, in partnership with the Full Gospel Baptist Church Fellowship convened their annual Summer Theological Intensive on the campus of Yale University in New Haven, CT. The theme for this year’s intensive was “Reflections on the Reformation” which included a major lecture on the topic by Bishop Andy C. Lewter, D. Min., host for the intensive. During the lecture Bishop Lewter discussed the varying influences and factors that had a great impact upon the Protestant Reformation reaching all the way back to the Crusades that took place just beyond the turn of the first millennium. In addition to the lecture on the Protestant Reformation, the guest scholar and lecturer for the intensive was Dr. Sherman Roosevelt Tribble of Nashville, TN. Dr. Tribble is the pastor of the New Vision Baptist Church of Nashville and Director of the Doctor of Ministry program at Apex Theological Seminary in Raleigh, NC.
Faith Leaders
Held on the Campus of Yale University
Harvard University, Cambridge, MA Tuesday & Wednesday Jan. 25th & 26th at 12 noon
Tution Only $295
For more information Please visit http://www.theologicalintensive.com or call Tonya Lewter at 516-223-3855
14 Manna News • Fall 2010
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the greatest opportunity today for the revitalization of poor communities, and why faith leaders and congregations can lead their communities to opportunity and investment in “green”. Patrick Duggan is the Pastor of the Congregational Church of South Hempstead/UCC, and President of
Green Homes
Dr. Tribble spent his time discussing the legendary Baptist leader, Dr. Joseph Harrison Jackson of Chicago, IL who for nearly 30 years served as the president of the National Baptist Convention, USA, Inc. Dr. Tribble is the author of the book “Images of a Preacher” which features Dr. Jackson. Dr. Tribble’s lecture was based upon the material in his book and gave to those in attendance an illuminating portrait of a man that history has obscured and almost forgotten. The Summer Intensive also paused to memorialize Sister Laverne Palmore who, for many years, served as the Administrative Coordinator of the intensive. The memorial service took place in the chapel on the campus of Yale Divinity School and included the attendance of Ms. Palmore’s sisters who received a special award on her behalf. Those in attendance commented on how rich and rewarding the experience was for them and how much they are looking forward to the 2011 Winter Intensive that will be returning to the campus of Harvard University on January 25th and 26th.
Abundant Communities Together, a faith-based community development corporation. He is the former Nassau Deputy County Executive for Economic Development, and was the first Executive Director of Sustainable Long Island.
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mitment to Town of Babylon residents that for every 10 jobs awarded through this community outreach collaboration there is 1 field technician job created for local residents. HPT currently support the following organizations with like-minded mission and values; Youth Build, United Way, Career Academies, Long Island Works/ Goodwill Industries. Bishop Andy C. Lewter, Host Pastor of Hollywood Full Gospel Baptist Cathedral did an excellent job in capsulizing our responsibility as caretakers of the earth. New Millennium Development Services, Inc. is excited about these col-
laborative efforts, which promote community outreach and public awareness regarding Town of Babylon Long Island Green Homes Iniaitive. NMDS will also work in the area of administration to help facilitate the process with the homeowner, LIGH and HPT. NMDS mission is also the development of affordable housing throughout the Long Island Area and incorporating green initatives with these projects give an added benefit to our income eligible first time homebuyers. If you are interested in taking advantage of the LIGH Program you can contact NMDS by calling (516) 223-3855 or email nwmillennium@optonline.net. www.mannanews.org
Ministry News
For Many Americans, Faith Shapes Their Stance on Social and Political Issues By Jessica Ravitz
A national survey released today shows that while many Americans say faith drives their stances on social and political issues, there’s little consistency on how and when it does. Opinions on hot-button matters like abortion and same-sex marriage are more often influenced primarily by religion than are issues such as immigration, the environment and poverty, according to the Pew Research Center survey, “Impact of Religion on Political Views.” Of the more than 3,000 adults surveyed over a two-week period this summer, 35 percent said religion mattered most for them on the issue of
Transformation
same-sex marriage. Of just those who oppose such marriages, 60 percent named religion as their top influence. On abortion, 26 percent named religion, with 45 percent of opponents weighing in this way. Forty-four percent of those surveyed said their clergy speaks about same-sex matters, and 59 percent said they hear from clergy about abortion. But even though 88 percent of regular churchgoers said their clergy speaks about poverty and hunger, only 10 percent cited religious beliefs as their top influence when considering the government’s role in assisting the poor. Clergy speaks about environmental protection to 47 percent of those
surveyed, but just 6 percent said their positions were primarily faith driven. And while 24 percent said they hear about immigration in their houses of worship, only 7 percent gave religion top-billing when it comes to influence. Education, personal experiences and media coverage often have more influence than religion on opinions about poverty, the environment and immigration, explained Greg Smith, a senior researcher at the Pew Forum on Religion & Public Life. He said it’s hard to know why people report the influences they do, but deciphering what issues have important religious links and what issues do not is key to understanding how faith factors into American politics.
Among the discoveries he ranked as most interesting was the realization that religion doesn’t necessarily push Americans in a conservative direction. A full 32 percent of those opposed to the death penalty (or 19 percent overall), for example, cite religion as the most important influence in forging their opinion. Also outlined in the survey is a list of what issues are considered “very important” to voters. Ninety percent said the economy; 88 percent said jobs; 78 percent said healthcare, followed by other issues including terrorism, taxes, energy, Afghanistan and immigration. At the bottom of the list: 43 percent said abortion and 32 percent said same-sex marriage.
launch green businesses that hire locally trained residents. They can form partnerships with businesses and regional nonprofits that understand the market potential for green building upgrades in poor communities and need local organizational partners to help them realize their goals. These partnerships can lead to the creation of new businesses in green economy industries including
weatherization, food systems, native horticulture, and sustainable manufacturing. Faith-based organizations and other community based nonprofits are wellpositioned to lead the transformation to green in low and moderate income communities. These institutions have longevity and effective leadership. Collectively they generate tens of millions
of dollars each year to pay their staffs, operate their buildings and pursue the divine calling to mission and ministry. By applying the same leadership and organizational skills to economic and community development, community based nonprofits and faith-based organizations can help their communities go “green” and initiate economic transformation in their communities.
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front costs, but reduce energy costs for decades. These changes lower operating costs, educate community members, and allow giving dollars to be used in ways other than paying for utility bills. Knowledge gained by these local groups can lead to directing young and/ or unemployed constituents to the growing number of green job training opportunities. More ambitious groups can www.mannanews.org
Fall 2010 • Manna News 15
Book Review Congratulations Copiague Girls Basketball Team
Return to Haiti 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 Local children in Haitian project. state crown by beating Bethlehem High School with a score of By R74-58. ev. Roy Kurton We all are proud of the CopiIn April Pastor Roy Kirton, Rev. ague team and wish all of the Noreen Davis and Pastor Paul Vaccaro players much success in their fujoined a delegation of religious leadture. traveled to Haiti to survey the ers who damage from the earthquake. The leaders were so moved by what they saw that they came back home and began recruiting volunteers for the cause. In December these leaders will return to
Haiti. Pastor Vaccaro’s team will focus on building homes for the Haitian people and Pastor Kirton’s team will provide first responder assistance to some one thousand children. In order to achieve success the groups are requesting donations. Pastor Vaccaro can be reached at 516-445-2339 and Pastor Kirton can be reached at 631789-2688 ext. 122.
Rev. Noreen Davis visits local school.
Powell
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 16 Manna News • Fall 2010 12 • Manna News • Spring 2009
67 Broadway Amityville, New York 11701 www.mannanews.org www.manna .org
Church History:
The Second Millennium Being Developed as an Online Study Program
Martin Luther at the Wall of Wittenberg
By Bishop Andy C. Lewter, D. Min.
Martin Luther on trial at the Council of Worms.
Church History: The Second Millennium, is the title of a new online study program being developed by the New Life School of Theology Online Bible College (http://www.myseminaryonline.com) that will allow the student to capture an illuminating overview of the church’s activities over the last 1000 years. The study program is a compan-
ion to the study program: Church History, the First Millennium that consists of 10 individual courses. This online study program can be used as a sequel to the first study program or as a stand alone study program on its own. The program will cover subjects including: The Crusades, Early Heresies, The Birth of Religious Orders,
The Church and the Renaissance, The Protestant Reformation, Conquest in the Name of Christ, Christianity and the African Slave Trade, The Great Awakening, The Black Church and the Modern Church. Each course consists of study notes a robust video lecture and a final exam. Those persons completing the study pro-
gram will receive a Certificate in Biblical Studies that can be counted toward one of the schools Ministry Degrees. At the time of this writing, the new study program was scheduled to be released between Thanksgiving and Christmas of this year. Be sure to look for it by visiting http://www.myseminaryonline.com
“Live” Funeral Webcast Becomes Answer to Distance, Money and a Bad Economy By Staff Writer When the Hollywood Full Gospel Baptist Cathedral began the practice of video streaming live funeral services at the church very few people took notice. The technological innovation was launched with the Homegoing Service of Mother Ruth Fuller Lewter in March of 2007. We realized early on that there were a number of people who wanted to attend the services but schedules and times prevented them from doing so. As a result, we turned to the technology that we use every Sunday for distant worshipers to give people an opportunity to share in the final farewell to a special lady” said Bishop Andy C. Lewter. Since then, the church has regularly broadcast their funeral services live over the internet so that family members, relatives and friends who can not travel to New York are able to be apart of the experience. However, it was not until this past Summer that the members of the Hollywood Full Gospel Baptist Cathedral realized the extent to which they had blazed a new trail and pioneered a new practice that is rapidly being adopted by churches all across the country. In early September gospel artist, Pastor Marvin Sapp, allowed the general public join him in his farewell to his wife. A number of notable personalities from the gospel community www.mannanews.org
Mother Ruth Lewter with Daddy Lewter during happoer days.
MaLinda Sapp with Pastor Marvin Sapp during better days.
were in attendance and the eulogy was delivered by Bishop I. V. Hilliard of Houston, Texas. More recently, Bishop Kenneth Moales of Bridgeport, CT and president of the Thomas Dorsey Gospel Music Workshop passed and again his funeral services were webcast live on the internet. It seems that a growing number of congregations are turning to the
internet as a tool to expand the reach of their ministry to places unavailable in the past. “With the economy being fragile and people watching their spending the popularity of webcast funerals have become viral.” says local funeral home director, Joseph Slinger of Amityville, New York. The job of the church is to serve the needs of its membership and community. The reality is that the needs of
those two groups have changed drastically which is forcing the church to change in the way that it ministers to its target audience.” says Bishop Andy Lewter of the Hollywood Full Gospel Baptist Cathedral in Amityville, NY. So the next time you attend a funeral and you look around at the family and friends, don’t be surprised to learn that those in attendance are not just those you can see. Fall 2010 • Manna News 17
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18 Manna News • Fall 2010
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Fight and Win! B Y PASTOR E LENA M AYFIELD Tabernacle of Praise Ministries “2nd Timothy 4:7 “I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith.” Many Christians like yourself are fighting a battle and the question is are you winning? Are you one of those who is tired of being defeated? Are you tired of going through the same dilemma over and over again? If you are; I exhort you to change the way you are training. It is time to train yourself to win. You have to follow the trainer ’s instructions which come from the Word of God. You have to start eating the word of God for nutrition. You have to discipline your flesh with prayer which will strengthen you.. In order to win you must not be complacent with practice and you must “Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.” (Ephesians 6:11), so you will be
able to withstand every fiery dot that is thrown your way. If you read your word daily, you will build up every muscle in your body. If you pray you will be strengthened when you are weak. Whatever you feed the most will be the most powerful. David won many battles because he trusted God even when there were giants in the land. Even when it seemed like his enemy was going to conquer him, he called on his God and God answered. Paul also praised God in his distress. This is why he said he fought a good fight, and he finished his course. What he was saying was he did not allow anything or anyone to stop him from having faith and trust in his God. The enemy could not stop Paul from fulfilling his call. Lets strive to win the fight. The key is a closer relationship with God. It time to be a winner, you can “Fight the good fight of faith and lay hold on eternal life.” 1st Timothy 6:12
.org
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