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CREW MEMBERS
Publisher’s
PUBLISHER/EDITOR IN - CHIEF Princess Adenike Akorede
Note
ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER Dr. Oyedeji Oyekale
MEDIA OPERATIONS EDITOR
Babatunde Aro
Princess Adenike Akorede
YOUTH EDITOR Tayo Shittu
BEAUTY/FASHION Bose Akande Biodun Akisanya Lori Oladipo Richie Ololade
WRITERS
Aretha Johnson Bridget Saez Taiwo Durowade Kehinde Durowade
PHOTOGRAPHERS Akeem Bello Donald Barge Manuel Paredes
DISTRIBUTION - EUROPE Gabriel Ladeji Tayo Oladapo Samson Agbejimi
DISTRIBUTION – NIGERIA Ifeoma Omowole Samuel Adeleke Sanjo Agboola Eseogene Govina-Abamwa
USA OFFICE
7050 S. Stony Island Chicago IL, USA 60649
LAGOS OFFICE
Block 437 Flat 4 Amuwo - Odofin Housing Estate Lagos, Nigeria
ADVISORY BOARD
US Congressman Danny Davis Dr. Saka Balogun Dr. Oyekale Oyedeji Dr. Adedeji Adefuye Prof. Victor Obajuluwa Pastor Abraham Adesayo Pastor Funmi Gbenro Mary Swopes Mrs. Bola Macarthy Mr. Ade Ojediran Mr. Bidemi Fijabi Mr. Hank Johnson Mr. Tommy Abina
Rebuilding, Redirecting & Repositioning
RCCG 2011 Convention
of God
Glorious Names
Words of Inspiration
Promise Corner
DESTINY MAT TERS
Marriage Falling Apart by: Pastor Abraham Adesayo, Christian Fellowship For All Nations In this edition we will look at twenty symptoms of a marriage in need of divine intervention. If you are experiencing more than fourteen of these symptoms you need immediate attention. If yours is about ten, you need to start a repair work so things will not deteriorate. If yours is below eight, you are a normal struggling family and if you have less than five, you are almost a perfect family going by the standard of our generation not of the bible. The first and major problem is about communication, whether it is not being able to have a meaningful conversation without it ending in meaningless argument, or inability to convey one’s mind in a simple and understandable way, or keeping mute on every subject. (It is not all the time that one could say silence is golden, because sometimes it is just pure arrogance) or complaining about everything and never complimenting about anything. The second symptom indicating a family falling apart is lack of openness about money. To me, it is a major tragedy in the body of Christ when children of God cannot trust each other with money. The wife does not know what the husband is worth and likewise husband the wife. The bible says “two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their labor”. And how can they have a good reward when they are not united in finance. The third symptom deals with your mind. If either of the two is not content with the beauty of the other person, but is always longing after someone else. That is a foundation for cold love. Where your treasure is, there your mind will be. Guide your heart with all diligence, because the issues of life proceeds from it. If you prefer to spend time with others than your spouse, can call them friends or extended family, it does not matter, it is a major indication of lack of fulfillment in friendship. Note that the person with whom you spend quality time and share your money is the most important in your life. The fifth indicator is when one of the two is always finding fault in what the other does. Jesus Christ said whoever is without sin, should cast the first stone. If God should mark iniquity, who will stand? When you or your spouse finds it more comfortable discussing with your parents, your siblings or your friends than with each other on matters affecting your family. Another indication that your marriage needs help is when you have started comparing your spouse to one or more of your past relationships when it comes to dressing, cooking, intimacy and other areas of life. 2 Corinthians 10:12; For we dare not class ourselves or compare ourselves with those who commend themselves. But they, measuring themselves by themselves, and comparing themselves among themselves, are not wise. When you are occasionally tempted to call any of these
of your exes or search for them on any of the social network websites, it is putting thoughts into action. It is means evaluation has taken place and you would rather go back to them, because there were things you enjoyed with them that is greatly lacking in your marriage now. It is said that it takes two to tango, then if fingers are being pointed at one person as being solely responsible for a problem, especially childlessness in the family; it means the word partnership never existed in the marriage covenant. Another symptom of a marriage in need of divine healing is when you have to beg before having what belongs to you and worse still, when you are sometimes out rightly denied. The bible says the man does not have power over his body, but the wife, and the wife does not have power over hers but the husband. It further says the two should not deny one another except for the purpose of fasting and praying and afterward come back together. Most of the time it is the man begging in this area whereby the woman is found begging for money for the family upkeep. The bible says these things ought not to be so. The next symptom that is very popular now is couples finding it extremely difficult to respect each other. Ephesians 5:33; Nevertheless let each one of you in particular so love his own wife as himself, and let the wife see that she respects her husband. Respect is one simple rewarding thing that has become almost impossible for people to give to one another. The twelfth symptom is one of the lowest level a child of God can descend to, and that is having real extra marital affair. According to the word of God in 1 Corinthians 6:18; Flee from sexual immorality. All other sins a person commits are outside the body, but whoever sins sexually, sins against their own body. This is a marital problem equivalent to the acts of a Suicide Bomber. Their lives and the lives of others are not precious to them. The next warning sign of a troubled marriage is when either of you are comfortable telling dirty secrets of your spouse to your extended family or friends who do not have any answers to the problems. Once you start selling your spouse cheap to outsiders, it is an indication that the center cannot hold again.
Adam and Eve trusted each other to the extent that the two were naked and were not ashamed. This tells of the confidence they had in each other. It talks about security. Therefore, if situation in your home has gotten to a level of you not being safe around your spouse, something must be done immediately. We are living in a generation where people could snap at any time and carry out unthinkable atrocities to the one they claim to love. The next symptom of a troubled marriage reveals a situation whereby one of the two has suffered constant abuse to a level where he or she now feels inferior or unimportant around husband/wife. Every human being is created to expect appreciation and validation and the closest to give you this is your spouse. No matter how many are rooting for you outside, if there is none inside, you are empty. One of the major indicators of a badly wounded person is for him to be bringing up issues of the past mistakes at every opportunity. There are some past that are best kept in the past. Constantly bringing them up is like exhuming a dead body, and what you get is a terrible sight and bad odor. The seventeenth symptom addresses open selfishness. Selfishness is the umbrella that provides shade for other sins in the world. Just evaluate any crime, you will discover selfishness as a foundation. Therefore, a selfish person is a wicked person and will always slow down progress. The next indicator addresses unforgiving spirit. Jesus said if we do not forgive men their sins, God also will not forgive us ours. Who then can stand up and claim to be faultless. Unforgiving spirit is a spirit that dries up the owner, it poisons him and blocks the way of blessing against him. Forgiveness benefits the one forgiving more. Second to the last, if either of you believe that your marriage is a mistake and you’re secretly praying or looking for a way out. A woman was elated at the news of her husband’s death and when I questioned her, she simply said it was an answered prayer because then, she could now marry the right man and fulfill destiny. Lastly any home where the husband and wife are finding it difficult to pray together is a family opening itself up for spiritual attacks. Praying together is more profitable than praying individually. Jesus Christ said if two shall pray together God will grant their request. Not praying together reveals lack of unity, trust and faith in one another. It is certain that with God all things are possible. Sometimes we just need to bring eternity back into focus and that will make us to be humble enough to want to work things out with each other. A lot of people are taking the easy way of divorce, but they are soon confronted with the reality of new sets of marital challenges
Late Otunba/Baba DaSilva
Late Otunba/Baba DaSilva
INSPIRING & ENGAGING
An Interview with
Pastor Dejesus
Ike’s Wedding
MOTIVATING & EMPOWERING
An Interview With
Oga Bello and that prompted my love for acting.
ONE
of Nigeria’s living screen legends and the CEO of the frontline movie production outfit UBEE Media, Lagos, Oga Bello as he is fondly called by colleagues and associates began his acting career in 1964.
to movies, artistes or producers only; it’s all over the professions that you can think of. SGM: What was your first movie? So far, we have been trying to change this Oga Bello: The first movie I produced and orientation but it can’t be totally eradicated. directed was “Omi lo Danu” this was in 1979. SGM: Speaking about Ibo movies, what is the SGM: Nigerian movie industry is said to be the peculiarity of the Yoruba movies to their Ibo third largest in the world. What influence if at counterpart? all is this having on the country’s economy? Oga Bello: Apart from the language, Yoruba Oga Bello: It is very clear that the movie movies have better stories with African input, industry has created jobs for the Nigerian most of the Yoruba performers have more people. The government also knows that the experience especially those that started from movie industry generates more revenue for stage plays and transferred to the big screen the country. and our people go through practical training SGM: Apart from job creation, is there any before they can get into acting anyway. visible impact that the Industry has on the SGM: How will you encourage people who economy? want to get into the movie industry and are
Today, his name has not only become an household one but some of his children’s too. Adebayo Salami, otherwise called Oga Bello, spoke with CHIOMA AGALI in this interview of his journey into the make- believe world, his childhood, the pains and the gains of the career Oga Bello: Umm, apart from job creation, I personally think and believe that the Industry so far. Enjoy itself has become an ambassador of the nation An interview with Oga Bello conducted over the to the entire world. Any home that the movie phone while he was on a movie location. gets into knows that it was shot by Nigerians SGM: Good afternoon sir, how are you and your and in most parts in Nigeria. family? In your own words could you acquaint SGM: So, what are the challenges facing the yourself to our readers? Industry? Oga Bello: My name is Adebayo Aremu Salami. Oga Bello: There are lots of challenges, but I was born and grew up in Lagos Island, Nigeria, thank God we have been able to overcome west of Africa. I joined the Young Stars led by some of these challenges. One of the greatest Ojo Ladipo in 1964. It was a stage drama group. challenges that face the Industry and not I remember staring in the first stage play called limited to Nigeria, is piracy. It is very difficult “Baye ba nyeni” (i.e. when all things seem to to totally eradicate piracy but with the help work in your favor) in 1965. We had a lot of of the government, it has been brought to stage plays such as Orisabunmi, Ogbon Gbeniga, a barest minimum. However, we still need Efunsetan Aniwura, Owo Udoji etc. between better laws to be put in place to fight piracy. 1965 and 1968. When Ojo Ladipo died in 1978, We also have production, financial and I became the leader of the group. spiritual challenges but as I said, we are able SGM: What actually prompted you into acting to weather the storm. considering the fact that it was not a favored SGM: There is this saying that in the Industry, profession back in the 60s? Parents vehemently particularly the Yoruba artistes, that there is detested their children or wards to do it. a somewhat dependence on diabolic powers. Oga Bello: Acting had always been my passion. Must you do it and how does it affect the I grew up in Lagos Island and I witnessed Industry’s image in the public? various activities and festivities. But what really Oga Bello: Spiritual attacks are all over. It prompted me was the one of Baba Ogunde’s is not just peculiar to the Yoruba movies play called “The Foolish Doctor” that aired on alone. In fact, some Ibo movies too deal the television. It was a great influence on me with diabolical powers. It’s not just peculiar
having problem doing so?
Oga Bello: We have a school called UBEE School of Performing Arts here in Nigeria where you can learn the basics of acting. The training takes about two years. You must at least have an OND (Ordinary National Diploma) before you can be admitted into UBEE. After graduation, you can join the ANTP association. SGM: Is there any room for Nigerians in Diaspora who want to come home and act or be a part of the Nigerian movie industry? Oga Bello: Everybody is most welcome, but one thing we need to know though, is that Nigerian movies cannot and should not be compared with any other movie but Nigerian movies. The Americans, Chinese, Indians, British and etc all incorporate their culture into their movies so it is important that we keep Nigerian culture in Nigerian movies. SGM: We see the influx of Ghanaian actors into the Nigerian movie industry, will you say it is deliberate or it is just happening or unfolding by itself? Oga Bello: Umm, Nigeria Movie Industry is the largest in the continent, so the influx into it should be anticipated. This also happens for commercial or professionalism purposes and it is more peculiar to the Ibo movies than the
MOTIVATING & EMPOWERING
An Interview With
Alhaja Sadat Hassan
CEO of Mustoy Films Nigeria Ltd.
HOW DID YOU GET INTO THE FILM INDUSTRY? By the grace of God and through the Adebayo Salami family popularly known as “Oga Bello.” Oga Bello and his wife were my mentors in my university days. They were and still my mentors. They introduced me into the film industry in 1994 and 1995. What was your first break in film production? That happened in 1995 with a film called “Okunfa.” This film was produced and directed by Oga Bello himself while I was the executive producer. This movie was the movie that brought Mustoy into the limelight in Nigeria. When this film was released, four major actors and actresses received awards. Olu Jacobs received the best actor of the year award. Peju Ogunmola – best actress of the year, Peju Ogunmola’s daughter in the film, received best kid actress. Also, Biodun Abbe received best upcoming actor of the year. Courtesy of Okunfa in 1995. Any other major break? Another break was Opin irin ajo starred by Wasiu Ayinde, Bimbo Akintola, Joke Silva, Olu Jacobs and a host of others. It is to the glory of God that as of today, we have sixty movie productions to our credit. What were the challenges you faced since you got into this industry? The major challenge was the issue of piracy. We have lost a great deal to piracy. But we have been working round the clock to minimize the piracy problem. Also, the social media like YouTube and others have hindered our distribution efforts. Regarding the issue of piracy, we think we are not getting the best from the Nigerian Government. It is important to note that the Nigerian Film Industry has been individually funded because the government then did not recognize it until recently. It is the passion and determination we have for the industry that has taken us this far and I am using this medium to cry out to the Nigerian Government to pass stiffer laws against piracy. How do you intend to make people feel your impact abroad?
First of all, we have distributors in the UK and in the US but the social media and piracy mentioned above have hindered/continue to hinder our distribution efforts coupled with the fact the government hasn’t really supported our efforts but to God be the glory we are trying our best to see our movies abroad through our I believe we should give democracy a chance to distributors. grow without any hindrance. I want to tell you How do you encourage the youths who may that nobody will ever believe we would have a be interested in movie/film production as a free and fair election in Nigeria. By the grace of God, we had a free and fair election in Nigeria career? this year. To our politicians in Nigeria, the lesson I would advise the younger ones to learn from is that politicians can only be voted for if there the various schools of acting and performing. is a record of achievements because Nigerians People that studied abroad that want to come are getting politically wiser everyday. No more back home and act need to come home, learn politics of yester – years in Nigeria. from the leaders in order to blend. They need to the practical aspect in movie making and What do you consider most important in life? Peace, comfort, and most importantly good health.
“It is the passion and determination we have for the industry that has taken us this far...” how the film industry operates in Nigeria.
Where do you see yourself in the nearest future? I see my business competing favorably with movie producers across the globe. Do you consider yourself a leader and do you see yourself going into politics to help people? Absolutely, because I was the vice chairman of movie marketers and producers association for three years in Nigeria and my tenure was one of the best. Regarding politics, I better be an adviser/ observer because I always want to a success so in terms of politics, I don’t think I can be one.
Your new movie: Obinrin lota Obinrin Do you see yourself doing what God has Tell us about your new movie: ordained you to do? This film was an inspiration about an encounter This is not what my parents wanted me to do recently. When that happened and going back but I feel loved, happy and fulfilled. Although, memory lane, I realized that it is we women my parents wanted me to be a lawyer or a that caused problems for ourselves or to one doctor but by the grace of God, I got myself another. I thought if we women could think for into this and there hasn’t been any regrets. a second and put ourselves in other women’s Who had/has the most influence in your life? shoes and reason or consider “if I were in her My mother has always been my inspiration, shoes.” This movie was produced and directed because I lost my father at the age of 9 and she by Oga bello. This is a bang. raised all my siblings and I all by herself and she Born and raised in Ilorin, Kwara State, Nigeria. is still alive to see what God is doing in my life. Alhaja Sadat Hassan was a graduate of History Let us talk about politics in Nigeria. What is at ABU, Zaria and received her MPA from University of Calabar in Nigeria. your take about it?
WOMEN IN MINISTRY
Mrs. Dejesus
GHF Ngozi
The President and Board of Directors of May 2011. With your generous support and Golden Hope Foundation Congratulate --- donations you will help to improve access -to both education and healthcare for The mission of Golden Hope Foundation is to make lasting positive impact on the lives of needy children and their families. Our goal is to provide a better life and environment for underprivileged children around the world, through education and health care programs that will improve, support and promote literacy, nutrition, early childhood
impoverished children and their families. We believe that when you educate a child, you empower a community and you secure a nation. Support our efforts and create a better tomorrow for our future generations. For more information about how you can donate or volunteer in any of our programs, contact Terri L Graham at 773-778-0045. learning and development. Currently, we are supporting two early learning programs in Nigeria and Haiti. Our champion of hope team had a successful HealthCare Education and Wellness mission to Nigerian,
Mrs Mustapha’s 50th B’day
WOMEN AND YOUTH IN TRANSITION
DREAM FOR
Youth & Women I
was walking around my neighborhood today, on the South Shore, and I noticed a ton of Black young men, beautiful, talking, excusing themselves so that I could pass, and seemingly delighted that I called them darling as I apologized for interrupting for interrupting their conversation. I couldn’t help but imagine how they must feel to have only each other to titillate their intellect, to create a world of belonging... the world of purpose and acceptance. That was much the same way I felt, when I was terminated after twenty years of employment at a place that was so central to my own purpose and esteem... My dream had been violated too. I frequently see so many young women, unlike me, with babies, many fleshy, often exposed, no work, trying to exist beyond basic survival, seeming to look for validation that they exist from a male, possibly, but when greeted by me, come alive with smiles of gratitude upon being acknowledged kindly and lovingly. I then see the employed young women and men how varied their style, confidence, friendly responses, and polite dismissiveness, frequently, when greeted by me. I think what a difference employment makes, being employed well, perception of wealth, playing the make-believe-role of success through style of dress, cars, dwelling places, and how it seems to contribute a large part to self-validation, and the perceptions of the possibilities before them. Rudeness, anger, drugs, selling and insults are frequently the responses to a world of restrictions which include poverty, babies to young girls, solicitations, restricted incomes, and as frequently smiles of hope, politeness, and the compulsion to think beyond circumstance, and sustaining a glance of The Dream inherent within all of us. Dreams Deferred, Inferred, Deterred, but Dreams nevertheless. We must support young Blacks no matter what to Dream beyond their circumstance... because circumstances can change. We Must Co-Create with them The Dream; otherwise, we defer, infer, and deter The Dream of the Black Community past, present and future. We are all community, whether we practice it or not. All of us at all financial, educational and spiritual levels co-create The Dream We Desire and
CAROL WINN
experience. Let’s become aware of our dreams, at the highest levels, and practice the co-creation of racial success and universal success through our consistent benevolence toward each other and All. Women are going through the change always in life. We are the co-producers of life. We put the WOMB in woman and the WOMAN in the world. As an integral part of the Universe we are an essential causal factor in how the WOrld is shaped. This is an awesome power and an awesome love we allow first in self and then in others. We must use our power, in every part of the Universe we find ourselves, with love and honor. We, therefore, must uphold all and cherish ourselves above all, so that we never fail to nourish ourselves. so that we can nourish all without ever depleting ourselves. This is never at the expense of our children and men; rather it is to understand that you cannot give qualitatively if you have nothing to give that is of quality. Today, in a society trying to integrate we must set the tone for how we become integral parts of one another as an essential part of the WHOLE. HONOR SELF AND HONOR ALL. PERSONAL AND PROFESSIONAL PROFILE OF CAROL WINN Life is good and it is to be lived as such, don’t you think? WIN WINN SOLUTIONS, INC. is a lifestyle seminar, consultation, and therapy company, founded by Carol Winn, President. Ms. Winn received a Master of Science in Social Work from the University Tennessee School of Social Work. Ms. Winn is the 2009 National Association of Social Workers Lifetime Achievement Award recipient. Ms. Winn has done seminars in Bergen, Norway; Melbourne, Australia; Vancouver, British Colombia, and throughout the United States. The WIN WINN SOLUTIONS’ staff is professionals, who are equally award-winning. PURPOSE: To provide solutions and strategies to the issues that confront people in their personal,
professional, and spiritual lives through the use of seminars, consultations and therapies. Because each of us is one person, not three, a problem in one life area spills over into all areas of our lives. For example, have you ever been told, at work, to leave your personal life at home; or, at home, to leave your work at work? Of course you have. It is cliché. This schizophrenic expectation creates emotional disharmony, generally. MISSION: To provide seminars, consultations and therapies that address the needs and goals of individuals, employees, employers, partners, couples, families, communities, and the workplace; which will make lives happier, healthier and whole.
Determination/Accomplishment/ Success Adeniyi Anthony Egbowon President/CEO Milestone Group.
“The consequences of today are determined by the actions of the past. To change your future, alter your decisions today.” ~ Anonymous “It doesn’t matter where you are; you are nowhere compared to where you can go.” ~ Bob Proctor Looking back at my Mother and how she was able to move from being a nobody to a person of substance and also how she was able to transform pennies into dollars, I decided that I definitely will like to follow her footsteps. Milestones Holdings llc was started 8 years ago because I wanted to follow my dreams and build up a business environment that was lacking in the Nigerian community, 8 years later we have grown to from a start-up to a Holden company, with assets of $2.5 million and zero liability, we are very proud of our achievements in the Nigerian and Chicago community, We are the premier Loan Origination and Modification company, Real Estate brokerage and Tax Preparer in the Nigerian Community. Maymex properties llc is in the process of developing a Multi-Million dollar Condominium Project in the Bronze Ville area of Chicago, this is already an ongoing project with CITIBANK as Finance partner. We are a growing Company and we know the future is bright and we will continue to make a change in the Nigerian Community.
Half page - unk
THE MILESTONES GROUP MAYFAIR MODIFICATION-ASHLEY-ANTHONY REALTY-MAYMEX PROPERTIES LLC-REAL TAX AGENCY INC SHORE FINANCIAL SERVICES (MORTGAGE BROKERS)
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Tel: 708-574-0844 / 708-233-6966/1-888-315-8343Fax: 708-221-7188 Web: www.themilestonegroup.com Email:ae@usa.com
HISTORY “The consequences of today are determined by the actions of the past. To change your future, alter your decisions today.” ~ Anonymous “It doesn’t matter where you are; you are nowhere compared to where you can go.” ~ Bob Proctor
need biz card, current one is watermarked.
Looking back at my Mother and how she was able to move from being a nobody to a person of substance and also how she was able to transform pennies into dollars, I decided that I definitely will like to follow her footsteps. Milestones Holdings llc was started 8 years ago because I wanted to follow my dreams and build up a business environment that was lacking in the Nigerian community, 8 years later we have grown to from a start-up to a Holden company, with assets of $2.5 million and zero liability, we are very proud of our achievements in the Nigerian and Chicago community, We are the premier Loan Origination and Modification company, Real Estate brokerage and Tax Preparer in the Nigerian Community. Maymex properties llc is in the process of developing a Multi-Million dollar Condominium Project in the Bronze Ville area of Chicago, this is already an ongoing project with CITIBANK as Finance partner. We are a growing Company and we know the future is bright and we will continue to make a change in the Nigerian Community.
Adeniyi Anthony Egbowon President/CEO Milestone Group.
Grandma Adesayo
Grandma Adesayo
City of the Lord My name is Joseph – Oladele
one at Ijoku. We have about 6 branches in Nigeria and one in Chicago which is the first Can you tell us about your background? branch in America. My wife and I parish at the I was born in 1939. my parents were farmers. I Headquarters 25 Kudrat Solemn street, Ifako, started school when I was around 10 years old Agege. but the school was closed soon after so i went back on the farm with my parents in 1952 in How do you cope with these branches? Abeokuta. Through the help of the holy spirit, I find it When I finished my primary education, I went very easy. to Abeokuta grammar school and there I had problems when it came to paying the school fees. My parents were unable to pay also so I was sent out of school. I decided to go to Lagos after it happened, that was 1959. There I was working as a house boy. How did you get called into the ministry sir? I cant remember the year specifically, I had a dream and in my dream, I saw someone in a suit with another person. One of them said, “this is my son, we have come to visit you.” I asked who are you and the person replied and said “I am the Lord, I will come back to tell you what to do.” In the dream, I escorted him outside and he told me to go back inside, he said he’d be back to see me again. How old were you when this happened sir? I think I was around 12 years old. In the dream, you said the lord told you he’d come back, when did he come back? He didn’t come back until December 1984, though in 1982, I was at cherubim church and God laid it in my heart to form a society called Christ Progressive Society. There were problems regarding that so society and rivals sprang up with complaints about why I was to be the head of that church. I had a dream, and my dream told me I should get out and I left that church in 1984. We started another church in -----, and named it Christ Progressive Reality Prayer church. How did you come about City of the Lord? It was around 2002 that the holy spirit ministered to me that we should change the name to Christ City of the Lord Church but we did not implement it until 2006. What was the necessity for the change? I had a dream, then I checked the bible and it was written in Psalm 48:2 and also in the book of Isaiah, and they both told me we should change the name to city of the lord church. Now we thank God that in Nigeria, we have branches in Surulere, Ikorodu, Ikola, Ojodu, Magodo, Osun, Oke aro and another
were not going to lay a finger on her. I gave him the money and he said “daddy don’t chase me because there are a lot of us outside, don’t chase me please daddy. My compound occupies about 7 plots of land and about 30 minutes into the incident, the police, air force, army, everybody surrounded our house. But the robbers didn’t come with a car so they have all mixed in with the crowd and I couldn’t What is your vision for the City of the Lord recognize them. I went to the doctor and they couldn’t see anything that was wrong with Church? me, but within 40 minutes, my eye became God has told me that he will establish this swollen and turned black. My eye was swollen church around the whole world. Our mission for about a month. is healing. What advice do you have to people who Do you recall how many healing miracles want to be ministers and pastor a church? your church has performed? Only come if you are called. There are The Lord has done many miracles but the ministers out here that are not called into most recent one I remember is on the 18th ministry and they should leave because if you of April 2009, I slept and heard a song. I woke aren’t called by God, you will have to get out up and wrote the song down, knelt down and of ministry. If you refuse, God will force you thanked God. On the 24th of April around 3 out disgracefully. When you see pastors that am, an armed robber came into our house for come around saying God said someone should the first time in history. Our house was built give money, or things of that sort. God is not a and fenced in a way that it was hard for anyone beggar, he is the owner of the whole universe. to penetrate but there was an abandoned van Plus you’ll know who is called into ministry by parked near my wall and the thieves climbed what they say. Some will say visions that never on that van and jumped into my compound. come to pass and they never end up having big When they came into the compound, they churches. took one of my choir members I gave a room to out of her room and told her to show them What advice do you have for the youth? where I was in that house. They came to my Don’t drink, don’t fornicate, don’t steal, don’t room and one of the armed robbers said envy, and don’t hang with a bad crowd. “daddy, if you don’t open the door in time, I will force the door open and you will regret it.” How did you meet mommy? I said “I wont regret anything in Jesus name.” God talks to me through dreams and I saw As I was opening the door, I didn’t know he her in my dream. I went to talk to the Pastor had positioned a gun on the other side and as about her, he prayed over it and when he gave I opened the door, he pulled the trigger and me a feedback, he said yes she is the one for shot at one of my eyes. Then, I don’t know, me. Now the problem was how to approach something took me out of that spot, took me her and tell her my intentions. See I was the up and I was in my big living room upstairs, I choir master in a church back then and she sat down. As the thing took me up, the light was just joining the choir. I had to watch how on the ceiling shattered and I had glass over I did things because of my position and how my clothes and floor. I sat down and while it would look to others. I started walking her wondering what just happened, the armed home after choir practice and we would talk robber came upstairs to me and said, “daddy, and joke all the time. After I while she really gun could not kill you, please forgive me daddy, began to like me and asked me why I was so I was sent.” Before all this happened, God into her, she said I seem to have a mission has told me to use anointing oil everyday so regarding her. I said no, we simply had a lot of I had been using it for about a month without thins in common. Her life resembled mine. She knowing the purpose. The armed robber told had the same problems I had regarding school, the others that were outside not to come in social life, etc. We were both brilliant students because this daddy can’t be killed. The robber but struggled with school fees, although turned to me and asked did I have any money she was in a higher grade than I was but she to give and I told him yes I’ll give him some seemed to be going through the challenges I money. He then followed me to my room, was going through. Anyhow, I found a way to saw my wife and told her not to worry, they speak to her and we both went to the lord and
City of the Lord pics
City of the Lord pics 12th Anniversary
City of the Lord pics 12th Anniversary
Goodwill Home health care ad
Politics - Obama/Rahm Emmanuel
POLITICS: NIGERIA
Six Years Term: A Detour to President Jonathan’s Transformational Agenda. When the erstwhile president of the Federal Republic of Nigeria - General Olusegun Obasanjo (rtd.) aligned with Professor Iwu of the National Electoral Commission to defraud Nigerians of their political say during the 2008 general election; little did the nation knew that the duo’s action is a spectacle of comma. The selection ushered-in late Umaru Musa Yar’Adua and Jonathan Goodluck as the president and vice president of Nigeria respectively. The team came up with “7 Points Political Agenda” which in fairness was planned to tackle the socio-economic and political problems confronting the nation. Regrettably, President Yar’Adua did not live to actualize this political goal. His demise provided the opportunity of a good luck to the Vice President- Dr. Jonathan, who after series of schemes, intra party political clashes and compromise became the 14th President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. On assumption of office, President Jonathan abandoned the 7 points political agenda of his late boss and substituted it with his own 3 points manifesto that focused on electrical power, Niger Delta issues, and electoral reforms. This action suggest that there was no complete agreement of understanding between Yar’Adua and his vice (Jonathan) on the administration’s preference political programs. Two years in the presidency, the extent to which President Jonathan Goodluck was able to fulfill his 3 points political agenda is debatable. Towards the completion of his boss’s tenure, President Jonathan argued that two years in office is not enough to make meaningful political impact in the nation, hence he sought the peoples mandate for another four years, and he got it. The people voted to retain him in office so as to make “meaningful impact” as intended. He was given the mandate to continue to address the nation’s problems which he had targeted to resolve. Unfortunately, barely four months into his four years term, Dr. Jonathan sang a new tune that implies a lost in focus. The President who promised to tackle the nation’s problem appears adrift. He has shifted his concern from the core value of his transformational 3 points agenda to tenure elongation. Rather than strategizing on the mechanism to make Nigeria a better and peaceful country devoid of political harassment and religious genocide; Mr. President has shifted emphasis to the issues of least importance. It is therefore necessary to inform Mr. President that Nigerians might have been battered by bad polity and inured to political recklessness but they have not lost their minds. They are mindful of the President’s promise during the election campaign. The people trusted his statement of commitment during his inauguration ceremony; and he will be hold accountable on those terms of pertinence. Why the president will depart from his promise so soon and compromise sound judgment is
not clear, but he needs to be reminded that he cannot play mind game with his mandate. He has a conditioned mandate; and it is in his best interest to live up to the voters expectations. The voters expectation in this four year tenure includes: rebuilding infrastructures, improve the quality of and increase accessibility to education and healthcare delivery system, improve agriculture sector, improve security of life and property, creation of jobs to reduce unemployment, consolidate democratic gains by fighting corruption and promoting good governance, support human rights and develop resources to tackle poverty and underdevelopment among others. Anything short of these is an aberration. President Jonathan should focus on policies that will ameliorate the problem of the electorates. He should be proactive and productive. He must deliver with this four years mandate. His concept of “meaningful impact” must necessarily transform to improvement in quality of lives of the people. The president should stop dissipating energy on counter progressive agenda and stop insinuating re- election. Tenure elongation can stay aside for now. The welfare of the masses should be prioritized over the greed of the politicians. Stable electricity, food, good and accessible health care, quality and affordable education system, employment opportunity, security of life and property, good roads, etc. are the immediate needs of the masses and they must not be ignored. Duration or tenure in office has nothing to do with the avarice of the office holders. A thief will always steal regardless of the length of time accorded him/ her. Statistics revealed that most politicians or public office holder perpetrate their atrocities within the first eighteen months in office. Mr. President, a living witness to this misdemeanor will confirm that the first allegation of corruption leveled against him while he was the governor in his home state of Bayesa took place within his first 24 months in office. The evil genius, General Ibrahim Babangida (rtd) excessive wealth accumulation took place within his first three years in office, late General Sanni Abacha (rtd) looted the treasury within his first two years in office, The “born again” General Olusegun Obasanjo (rtd), who came to Aso Rock “broke” had his “financial break through” within the first four years in office. The pretentious General Abdulsalami (rtd) who ruled Nigeria for less than one year (354 days to be precise) now lives in massive wealth in his home town of Minna, Niger State. Similar instances exist with other office holders at the states and local government level. This implies that corruption cannot be fought with single term tenure elongation. In fact it could breed anarchy and authoritarianism. Mexico and France are example of countries where the president term in office is six-years (single term). This
has not made the countries corruption free. For instance, Carlos Salinas de Gortari (1988 – 1994) and Vicente Fox (2000 – 2006) are ex-presidents in Mexico. Their regimes were riddled with corruption and other forms of scandals. French government is equally not immune from corruption. Jacques Barrot – a front line right wing French politician and European Commissioner for Justice was convicted of embezzlement in 2000, former French President Jacques Chirac was accused of scheming to overcharge the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia of more than two million pounds for French military equipment to benefit himself and his party. Therefore it is obvious that tenure elongation is not a panacea for a corruption free polity. There is nothing wrong if the president decides to fight political corruption in his administration. Fighting same with the recommendation of an elongated term of 6 years is evidently counter intuitive. Giving the reality of the situation in Nigeria, it can’t work, not at this time. Suffice is to say that it will not have any soothing effect on the people. There is no prima facie evidence that suggest that an elected public office holder will remain focus and spend more time on the business of the state when subjected to one term in office for six years. In fact, it will propel desperation and rat race to endless looting of the nation, state or the local government treasury. Therefore the president should readdress his priority and direct the focus of his administration on agenda that will decrease the mental and emotional pains with which the masses has been subjected. However, if the president thinks that he has the power and that he can make a dangerous use of it, then he need to be provided with some historical lessons. He required to be reminded that in the 80s when IBB began to scheme to prolong his regime with incessant conduction, cancellations, appointments and annulment of elections, Nigerians confronted his regime and forced him to “step aside”. When Sanni Abacha became head swollen with the opulence of office and decided to transition himself from khaki boy to a civilian president, it was apple that redressed the situation. When Obasanjo planned to introduce his third term agenda, Nigerians “dosed” him out of his delusion and fought him to surrender. In conclusion, Mr. President is encouraged to tread the part of honor by working on programs and policy that will touch and improve the quality of human life, promote security of life and property, make Nigeria habitable for present and future generations. If on the other hand, President Jonathan decides to wrap-up himself in the tradition of the evil generals, Nigerians will stand to the task. We will fight and we will prevail. Tunde Ali is the President of Citizens for Good Government & Accountability – CIGGAC.
Tony Stone’s dad’s burial Mr. Tony Egbowon has this to say about his late dad: “I have a lot to say about my dad who used to take us to London for vacations and during the holidays in Nigeria, I remember we always had a family picnic and we were/are still close. My mom died 17 years ago dad had always been a great father and a friend. How do you feel today as you celebrate the passing on of your father? I feel I have lost a great friend and a father. What I will miss most about him is his honesty, humility and straight forwardness. I think I derive humility from him. What does it take to be humble? Making sure that I respect other people no matter who they are, no matter their position in life. My father died at age 80. I want the Lord to preserve my life to live more than 80 years so I can realize my ambition in life. My ambition is to have a business conglomerate. Mr. Tony Egbowon is a real estate developer and mortgage broker. Late Chief Alphaeus Egbowon – survived by use invitation is survived by
Tony Stone’s dad’s burial
y a d ’ B h t 0 5 s ’ a h s Ai at Party! Bo
Aisha’s 50th Native Attire
Aisha’s 50th Native Attire
Aisha’s 50th Native Attire
Education / Graduation Adetayo, Mary, Bolaji
BCOR
BCOR
House of Glory
The Redeemed Christian Church of God 213 E. 159th Street, Harvey, IL 60426 Tel: 708-339-2880, 708-543-7802 Email: rccghouseofglory@yahoo.com Place of Worship: Abundant Life Restaurant 17429 S. Center St East Hazelcrest, IL 60429 Hours of Worship Sundays: 10.00am-12.00 noon - Glorious Worship Service Tuesdays: 6.30pm-800pm - Digging Deep into the Word of God (Bible Study) Thursday: 6.30pm – 7.30 pm - Faith Clinic Last Friday of The Month: 11.30pm–1.30am - Divine Encounter (Congregational Vigil) 24 Hour Prayer and Counseling Services: 708-543-7802
‘Inspiring people…………… developing potentials’ Oluwadare Durowade Parish Pastor
Kingdom Ministries & Ayo Ni 1
Shekinah Events & Fashions –
Shekinah Fashions
Events Round & About -ANPA/ July 4th Picnic /Dr. Wole’s twins/EKO Picnic
Princess Iyashewa’s 50th B’day
Princess Iyashewa’s 50th B’day
Atty Oyeyemi’s baby naming (Scanned CD) half page (use about 6 pics)
Half page unk
Pastor Peju’s church Anniversary
Legal Perspectives
Youth Corner
CFAN
CFAN
CFAN
What is Christian Apologetics? By: Keith A. Little
During the Roman empire you were not given a defense attorney. You were given an apologist. This apologist presented your defense, which was called your apologetic. There are many types of apologists still today. There are Christian apologists, Catholic apologists, atheist apologists, and more. These different apologists want you to hear what logic and reason have to say about their beliefs. So why is it important to be an apologist and in what manner should an apologist act? According to 1 Peter 3:15-17, we are all called to be apologists and we are to act with gentleness and respect. You may ask yourself why it is important to be this way when attempting to help someone understand the truth of scripture. Let’s take a deeper look at how other professions discover and understand the truth. When two mathematicians are attempting to solve a complex problem together, they know sometimes there can be answers that seem like they would work, but ultimately, there is only one answer that will fulfill the whole problem. When two mathematicians are working together, they do not argue with one another about who is right, or why the other person is wrong. They simply accept when one is right and the other is wrong. Do they judge one another for being
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wrong? Well maybe sometimes, but they both know that what is important is solving the problem. Why is it important for us to look at an apologetic, someone’s question or claim for which now we must defend our faith, like two mathematicians do? We as Christians know that we have the truth, so we must not be afraid to hear the other side, and certainly if we find we don’t know the answer to the question it will help us grow in our faith to find the answer. When someone sees that you are a truth seeker, they will respond to you as a truth seeker as well. You will find that the two of you will be much like our mathematicians. Today, we have a greater need for apologists with the rise of secularism around the world. We all must remind ourselves and others that our Church is a hospital for sinners and not a museum for Saints and Bible Scholars. With the knowledge that all of us here on earth are incapable of being perfect, even Christians, we can all learn that forgiveness is necessary in this life. Look forward to more biblical answers to common and in-depth apologetic questions in this magazine and online at www. christianapologetics101.org.
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Iya Duncan’s late mother
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African Haja Fatimoh
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Alhaja Toyin Fashions
Sierra Banquest & Lounge
Christ Life Anniversary
Shekinah Ad/Awards launching flyer
Pastor Job’s Church Anniversary
Washington DC Sis. Rosina
Washington DC Sis. Rosina