www.gracenglorymagazine.org  1
2 April 2013 | Grace&Glory
Call 443-813-6547 to advertise
www.gracenglorymagazine.org  3
™
APRIL 2013
contents on the cover:
Bishop Reginald L. Kennedy Gospel Tabernacle Baptist Church 3100 Walbrook Avenue Baltimore, MD 21216 410-383-8100 www.gospeltab.net
Pg. 8-9 Q&A Interview with Bishop Reginald L. Kennedy
CLASSIFIEDS – Page 35
features 21 PERSON OF INTEREST
15 Mayor’s Journal
18 Book Shelf
Brandie Manigault
Cross Roads (William Paul Young)
Andrea R.Williams
The Incomparable Andrae’ Crouch
23 Word on Finances
Dr. Kenneth O. Robinson
How to Properly Plan Your You Can Start Over Again! GREATEST Financial Year
19 EDUCATION DIGEST Dr. Tim Tooten
Mayor Stephanie Rawlings-Blake
Person to Person
4 April 2013 | Grace&Glory
27 To Your Good Health
Carla J. Debnam, MS, LCPC
Winds of Change
How to P
T
he Americ many, eve we all wa Call 443-813-6547 to advertise create a c many goa
Herline A. Knights
42 Gospel Industry News
Mental Health & Nutrition
29 Nutrition & You
Ericka Johnson
31 Woman’s Perspective
Cassandra Vaughn-Fox
When the Sun Begins to Shine
33 TEEN CONNECT
Pastors Greg & Tonya Dennis
Donna Williams-Ross
What is Your Issue? Take a Risk of Faith!
Spring Forward
41 BODY BASICS
Charles ‘Chizelit’ Harris
Workout Less, Get More Done
45 Word of Encouragement
In Every Issue
Contributors................................................................... 6 From the Editor.............................................................. 7 Scripture Page............................................................. 13 Carter’s Commentary................................................... 46
www.gracenglorymagazine.org 5
For the LORD God is a sun and shield: the LORD will give grace and glory: no good thing will he withhold from them that walk uprightly. Psalm 84:11
Contributors
PUBLISHER/ EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
EDITORIAL
Jackie Epps Dr. Kenneth O. Robinson Harold A. Carter, Jr. Cassandra Vaughn-Fox Herline A. Knights Pastors Gregory and Tonya Dennis Carla J. Debnam Donna Williams-Ross Governor Martin O’Malley Ericka Johnson Mayor Stephanie Rawlings-Blake Rev. Tim Tooten Brandie Manigault
PHOTOGRAPHY GRAPHIC ARTIST
Mark L. Dennis Claire Lesesne www.JandCDesigns.com
WEB ADMINISTRATOR
Andre Felipe for Arts Period www.artsperiod.com
PRINTING Roebuck & Son Printing www.hgroebuck.com Grace & Glory Magazine is published monthly by JE Media, LLC, a Baltimore based, independent publisher. Copyright 2013. All rights reserved. Reproduction without expressed permission is prohibited.
Classifieds! Classifieds! PLACE YOUR CLASSIFIED AD IN OUR NEW CLASSIFIED SECTION
GREAT CLASSIFIED RATES!
Advisory Board
Chairman — Dr. A.C. D. Vaughn Sr. Pastor, Sharon Baptist Church, MD Vice-Chairman — Dr. Frank M. Reid III Sr. Pastor, Bethel A.M.E. Church, MD Dr. Jerome A. Barber Sixth Mount Zion Baptist Temple, Hampton , VA Dr. Michael A. Battle Sr., U.S. Ambassador President, ITC Seminary, Atlanta, GA Dr. Timothy Boddie Friendship Baptist Church, Atlanta, GA Bishop John R. Bryant Presiding Prelate of the 5th Episcopal District Dr. Harold A. Carter, Sr. Pastor, New Shiloh Baptist Church, MD Dr. Suzan Johnson Cook, U.S. Ambassador Dr. WIlliam H. Curtis Mt. Ararat Baptist Church, Pittsburgh, PA Bishop Ralph L. Dennis Sr. Pastor, Kingdom Worship Center, MD Wanda Q. Draper/Media Executive Michele J.K. Epps/Health Sciences Cassandra Vaughn Dir., Balto City Office Of Communications & Cable Dr. Donte’ L. Hickman, Sr. Pastor, Southern Baptist Church, MD Pastor Timothy V. Manigault Bishop Dennis V. Proctor Presiding Prelate of the Western Episcopal Region AME Zion Church Dr. Kenneth O. Robinson Pastor, Restoring Life International Church, MD Bishop Walter Scott Thomas, Sr. Pastor, New Psalmist Baptist Church, MD Dr. Timothy Tooten, Sr. Pastor, Harvest Christian Ministries, MD
Grace & Glory Magazine By Mail!
Rates: $9.00 for the first 10 words and under. 50 cents for For subscriptions go to our website: each additional word. Add $2.00 for any bold words. $5.00 www.gracenglorymagazine.org for each uploaded photo. For advertising information contact Payment: We accept PAYPAL, VISA, MASTERCARD, 443-813-6547; 410-370-2636 and DISCOVER. or info@gracenglorymagazine.org Deadlines: The 23rd of every month at 8:00 pm Grace & Glory Magazine is the ideal Categories: Help Wanted, For Rent,For Sale, Autos for Sale, publication for all your advertising needs! Boats for Sale, Business Opportunity, Instruction, Child Care, Follow us on facebook at facebook.com/gracenglorymagazine Entertainment, Announcements, other. and twitter @gracenglorymag Go online at: www.gracenglorymagazine.org Check out our website at: www.gracenglorymagazine.org
6 April 2013 | Grace&Glory
Call 443-813-6547 to advertise
from the editor
Know God For Yourself I believe that the key to staying strong and keeping the faith is to know God for yourself, in other words, you need to have a personal relationship with God. Usually when you have a personal relationship with someone it starts with a foundation of trust. Trust is the first building block of establishing a relationship. You want to be confident that the person you are in a relationship with is trustworthy. One of the best ways to establish trust with someone is to spend time with that person and to become familiar with their character. So it is with God, we build our trust in Him the same way. When we spend time with God we become familiar with who He is and we become familiar with His character. Knowing God for yourself is an exciting journey and you can start that journey by first spending time in the Word of God. Reading God’s word can stimulate and build your faith. There was a reading campaign whose slogan was, “The more you read the more you know”. Reading God’s word and knowing God’s word is rewarding and has wonderful benefits. As part of the journey to getting to know God we must also spend time in His presence through praise and worship. God’s word tells us to worship Him in spirit and in truth.
When we worship God we tend to develop His traits and character. When we worship and praise God we honor Him for who He is. (John 4:24). Another part of our journey to knowing God is spending time in prayer. The word of God tells us that we should always pray and to pray without ceasing. Prayer is how we communicate with God and how He sometimes communicates with us. We express our thanks, our faith, our love, and our hopes with God in prayer, and we receive from Him answers, assurance, guidance, peace, strength, power, and revelation of who He is. (Matthew 7:7-8; John 16:13; Philippians 4:6-7; Ephesians 1:17, 18). Once you have established a relationship with God, it will be easy to trust Him with your whole life. I’m so glad I know Him for myself! Do you know Him for yourself? Praise God if you do, if you don’t it is never too late to get to know Him.
Peace & Blessings . . .
Jackie Epps Editor
www.gracenglorymagazine.org 7 www.gracenglorymagazine.org
Q&A
Q
A &
INTERVIEW WITH
Bishop
Reginald L. Kennedy
Gospel Tabernacle Baptist Church Baltimore, MD
G&G: Bishop Kennedy, I look forward to talking with you each year to help celebrate your anniversary. I understand this is your 22nd Pastoral Anniversary and your 40th year preaching. To start things off, how are you and your family? Bishop Kennedy: My family and I are living in the favor of God. We are blessed beyond measure and I’m thanking God each day. My 93 year old mother lives with us, and God is showing me each day that He is a keeper. G&G: Bishop Kennedy, let’s get caught up with you. What have you been doing this past year? Are you working on any new book projects? Bishop Kennedy: This past year has been an exciting one for me. I was able to give birth to the Spiritual Integrity Covenant Fellowship, which is a group of Pastors that are under my Bishop’s covering. The Church is growing daily and God gets all the praise for that. There is a new book in my Spirit dealing with the Baptism of the Holy Spirit. Now I just need to put it into book form. It’s on its way. G&G: Bishop Kennedy, let’s talk about 40 years of preaching the gospel! No doubt you have witnessed many changes in ministry. I read an article The Black Church is Dead by Eddie Glaude, Jr., Ph.D., in which he made some interesting points about the institution called the Black Church. I would like to discuss some of his evaluations and the state of the Black Church. Number one is the Black Church still in existence? Bishop Kennedy: Let me begin by saying that the Church of the Living God is very much alive, and that the institution called the Black Church, is also functioning and has its place in the Kingdom. G&G: Bishop Kennedy, historically the Black church fostered strong community organizations and provided spiritual and political leadership, especially during the civil rights movement. There was a time when the church was the foundation of the Black community. Do you believe the church still has a voice in the community? How would you define today’s Black Church? Bishop Kennedy: Without a doubt, I know that the Black Church still has a strong voice in this community. There was a time when all we had in our African American communities was the Black Church. In it we could express ourselves and find liberty that was not found anywhere else. Times have changed slightly, and so have many individual’s focus on and need for the Black Church. G&G: Bishop Kennedy, there is a saying that “the church is alive and well”, what makes a church alive and is all well with the church today? Does the state of the church
8 April April2013 2013| |Grace&Glory Grace&Glory 8
Call443-813-6547 443-813-6547totoadvertise advertise Call
reveal an institution that is wrestling with its identity? What are the challenges facing the Black church? Is there a disconnect between the church and the unsaved? Bishop Kennedy: What makes the Church alive is the fact that it’s connected to a living God. It is founded on Him who is eternal. Since the Bible says that the gates of hell shall not prevail against it, the Church must be doing well. The identity of the church is clear. Its fight is more pervasive because the Church is now fighting in a time of extreme moral decay. What was once wrong in the eyes of society is now right. And what was once called right, is now wrong... G&G: Bishop Kennedy it has been said that technology has had a profound effect on the church. A person can go to church without ever having to leave their home. There is even the convenience of listening to a sermon any time of the day using anything mobile. What are your thoughts on technology and the church? Bishop Kennedy: I believe that every technical advance can be used to benefit the Kingdom of God, never to take the place of attendance but to help the Gospel spread further. The Bible makes it clear that we should not forsake the assembling of ourselves together. With that in mind, Church attendance is a must. Technology, on a whole, is to be embraced and used for the spreading of the Gospel.
Bishop Kennedy: Speaking on behalf of the Gospel Tabernacle Baptist Church, we are making a concentrated effort in preparing our youth to be our future leaders. I believe one of the qualities of a good leader is to always be preparing someone to take their place. It is a need for us to open our ears and hear what our youths are saying today. They themselves can help to bridge the gap in helping the older generation to find a true spiritual and technological connection.
Q&A
G&G: Bishop Kennedy, what is the Gospel Tabernacle Baptist Church doing to make a difference in its community? Is the church in partnership with any of its sister churches to bring about reform? What is on the agenda for the future of the Gospel Tabernacle Baptist Church? Bishop Kennedy: Here at the TAB, we are thanking God for allowing our fingerprints to be felt all around the world. We have a Church partner in George, South Africa, where we financially support the spreading of the Gospel. In Baltimore, we are part of the West Baltimore Clergy United, in which about a dozen churches have joined together to help minister to the needs that are found in the West Baltimore community. Personally, right in our church, we house an organization called LIFE which helps train mentally challenged adults in finding employment. As we go forward, we are seeking to be an old fashioned Church, a Church where the entire community can find love, peace and refuge within the walls. Our doors stay open.
G&G: Bishop Kennedy, in Baltimore City alone there are hundreds of Black churches. How critical is it that pastors support each other G&G: Bishop Kennedy, in bringing about change in lastly would you share with Bishop Reginald & Lady Kelly Kennedy the Black community as it us your prophetic voice on relates to crime, drug abuse, what you believe the Lord is unemployment, incarceration, and poverty? Why is it so saying to today’s church? hard to work together for the cause of Christ, exemplifying Bishop Kennedy: I hear two things very clearly. One God’s love on behalf of those who suffer most? that we should not forget our purpose and that is Bishop Kennedy: It is extremely crucial that Churches of evangelism. We cannot get caught up in building ‘an all denominations and color work together uniformly to image management’ or the quest for personal fame. But help to eradicate the plights in our community. In my 22 we must stay focused on the spreading of the Gospel of years of Pastoring, I have not found the secret in having the Lord Jesus, until He returns. Secondly, the Church’s Churches across the board work together for a cause for a leaders and members must live holy. Holy living is not common goal. No doubt, there are hundreds of Churches a statement, it’s a walk. Spiritual integrity in these latter that love the Lord, but the difficulty comes when her days has been attacked and questioned for a good reason. leaders try to come to a consensus on how to deal with the Many spiritual leaders are living carnal lives. I hear the issues that are facing us. If someone else can help me with Lord say ‘Be Thou Holy, for I Am Holy’. Just maybe, if we this, I’m open for discussion. live the way God commands, His power can flow through us. I just love the Lord. Don’t you? G&G: Bishop Kennedy, looking at the issues that plague the G&G: Indeed I do love the Lord! Bishop Kennedy, we youth of today, it appears that the church would be in trouble appreciate you taking the time to share your thoughts with as it relates to the next generation continuing the work of us. We thank God for your never tiring commitment to the church. Are the leaders of the church preparing the next spreading the gospel. We salute you and join in with you generation for the task of carrying forward the baton of the as you celebrate 40 years of preaching and 22 years of church? In this world we live in with so many distractions, leading the Gospel Tabernacle Baptist Church. how can we keep the church relevant to the next generation?
www.gracenglorymagazine.org 99 www.gracenglorymagazine.org
bio
Bishop
Reginald L. Kennedy, Ph.D. Gospel Tabernacle Baptist Church The year 2013 marks the 40th preaching (ministerial) anniversary of this Baltimore, Maryland native, Bishop Reginald Lamont Kennedy. From the moment he preached his inaugural gospel message at the tender age of eleven, this anointed man of God has touched and is touching hundreds of lives as a highly sought-after preacher, teacher, keynote speaker, lecturer and seminar leader in the religious and business communities.
Whether you call him Pastor, Preacher, or Teacher – Bishop Reginald L. Kennedy is a true minister – God’s man, in God’s place, doing God’s work, in God’s way, for God’s glory! 10 April April2013 2013| |Grace&Glory Grace&Glory 10
Gospel Tabernacle Baptist Church, located in the heart of Baltimore’s inner city, acknowledges that God sent this young pastor to them twenty-one years ago knowing the future and heightened level of ministry upon which they would embark together. Bishop Kennedy attended the Baltimore’s Lake Clifton High School and Richmond’s Virginia Union University, where he earned a B.A in Religion and Philosophy. At the Family Bible Seminary, he earned a Master of Divinity Degree. He earned a Doctor of Philosophy Degree (Ph.D.) in Advanced Clinical Pastoral Counselling at the University of Family Bible. His pastoral stops included duties as Assistant to the Pastor at Timothy Baptist Church and Assistant Pastor at Good Tidings Baptist Church in Baltimore, and Chaplain for the University of Maryland Police Department before assuming the full-time pastorate of Gospel Tabernacle Baptist Church. Bishop Kennedy is the author of three books: “Introduction to the New Covenant,” “God’s View of the Family,” and the most recent, “What Really Works in Ministry? Being a Reflection of God.” He deems it a great honor to serve as the Presiding Prelate of the Spiritual Integrity Covenant Fellowship, which includes churches in Maryland and South Africa. He has been married for almost thirty years to the love of his life, the former Kelly Ryles. Their blessed union has resulted in the parenting of three fine young sons, Michael, Timothy and Daniel. He gives God praise for his family. Whether you call him Pastor, Preacher, or Teacher—Bishop Reginald L. Kennedy is a true minister—God’s man, in God’s place, doing God’s work, in God’s way, for God’s glory! Call443-813-6547 443-813-6547totoadvertise advertise Call
www.gracenglorymagazine.org 11 www.gracenglorymagazine.org 11
12 April 2013 | Grace&Glory
Call 443-813-6547 to advertise
scripture
www.gracenglorymagazine.org 13 13 www.gracenglorymagazine.org
14 April 2013 | Grace&Glory
Call 443-813-6547 to advertise
mayor’s journal
www.gracenglorymagazine.org 15
16 April 2013 | Grace&Glory
Call 443-813-6547 to advertise
education digest I own two cellular telephones, two laptop computers and one ipad. I am normal according to the technology world. In fact, Wireless Intelligence, the research arm of the GSM Association, says if you own 1.57 devices you’re an average American subscriber. It’s even higher in the rest of the world, coming out to 1.85 mobile connections per subscriber. I’m sure that a few of my readers remember when you were considered middle class if your family owned one telephone. In most cases, it was what we called a party line; that meant we shared the telephone service with another family or two. I’ll be the first to admit that my life has been enriched by my use of the growing number of mobile devices and the worldwide web. I text. I rarely tweet. But I try and spend as much time as possible engaging people faceto-face and person-to-person. I believe that talking to each other person-to-person is slowly being replaced by technology. How many times have you told someone to send you a text or e-mail? I am embarrassed to say I have accepted invitations to speak, arranged television interviews without ever having a one-on-one conversation with the other person.
I believe we rely too much on technology. I remember just a few years ago when a minor earthquake literally shut off cell phone service in the Baltimore region. Many of us didn’t know how to cope. I am afraid to say we are rearing a generation of technology children. I won’t argue with the fact that from an educational standpoint learning in and out of the classroom has been enhanced by the use of technology. But, every now and then, we should take time to have a face-to-face conversation. I do quite often around the coffee counter at one of my favorite convenience stores. Here’s my approach. “The coffee sure smells good this morning. There’s nothing like that first cup?” The question leads to a person-to-person response. I’ve found that it’ll sometimes last from the coffee counter to the cash register and outside onto the parking lot. I attribute part of this easiness to engage to my southern upbringing. If you walked by a neighbor’s home and refused to speak or acknowledge them, word would have reached home by the time you arrived. Today, I believe we miss so many opportunities, especially with our children and family members, when we fail to or avoid having one-on-one conversations. My father was famous for calling my name in such a loud voice that it rang throughout our entire community. There was no mistaking; after all, there was only one Timmy living on Martin Street. He beckoned me to return home after a full day of playing with friends. I’d get a lecture of course about my failing to respond in a timely manner. The next day as I
made plans to play again with friends, my father would say to me, “Not so fast.” He repeated these words. I’ll never forget them. He’d say, “Son, try staying home today.” I’d say, “Why daddy?” He’d say, “So I can look at you for a while.” I was always puzzled by his response. This time of looking at me lasted a few minutes, even though it felt like hours. Today, I get his point. He Dr. Tim Tooten, Sr. wanted to spend some quality time with his son without the interruption of even the neighborhood boys. Take time today to have some uninterrupted person-to-person time with a loved one or even a complete stranger. Dr. Tim Tooten, Sr. is an Emmy-Awarding reporter for WBAL-TV(NBC) In Baltimore, Maryland. He’s also the Pastor and Founder of Harvest Christian Ministries in Baltimore County, Maryland. Technology has taken over person-toperson communication
www.gracenglorymagazine.org 17
bookshelf
Book Shelf Cross Roads By Wm. Paul Young WM. Paul Young did it again! If you liked The Shack, then you will LOVE Cross Roads. In this fictional piece of incredibly penned work, he takes you on another soul searching journey filled with laughter, tears, moments that pull at all of your heart strings, a little anger, a lot of vulnerability, and ultimate transparency to self. I will say that it starts slow, but it is worth it if you stick it out. Because of the complexity of the main character, Tony, Young takes the first few chapters to really set the stage for who it is we are journeying with. He paints a beautifully ‘ugly’ picture in detail of a man that makes bad decision after bad decision all the while believing in his heart that he is right and justified in all of them and in the treatment of others. The first few chapters highlight the high cost of always making himself #1. The story picks up after Tony finds himself caught between this life and the after-life after suffering from a trauma leaving him in a coma in ICU. In this in between place he encounters Jesus, the Holy Spirit, and God, along with others who have been assigned to guide him, teach him, and assist him in learning about himself and how what you do or did in your earthly life has a direct impact on the condition of your soul. With the help of these individuals, you will see the transformation power of knowing the truth. One of my favorite quotes from Cross Roads says, “Transformation without work and pain, without suffering, without a sense of loss is just an illusion of true change.” This book is full of little nuggets like these encrypted in the pages of Tony’s journey. 18 April 2013 | Grace&Glory
by Brandie Manigault
What I love about the way Young has written Cross Roads is that he makes you feel as though you are there; as if these characters are a part of your personal life. You celebrate the small victories with the characters and are equally as heartbroken in their setbacks. Cross Roads takes the reader on a fictional journey that seems so real that at times you have to look up from the pages just to get a reality check. The places that Tony goes, the people he encounters, and the choices that he made makes everything seem so real that they could very well be things we have done and conversations that we have
had with our friends. One thing that surprised me about how Young wrote this book was that it wasn’t fully fictional. Although the names were made up, certain characters, terminology, and event progression was based on people he knew and interviews with doctors in the medical profession. I appreciated how he took the time to make sure that the story line was believable enough that the reader could be connected throughout the novel. I cannot say enough how much I enjoyed Cross Roads. I was truly sad when I got to the last page. Go get your copy. Let me know what you think. -Brandie @iambandaid
About The Author
William Paul Young
William Paul Young is a Canadian author, best known for The Shack, a novel.
Paul was born a Canadian and along with three younger siblings was raised among a stone-age tribe by his missionary parents in the highlands of what was New Guinea (West Papua). The family returned to Canada where his father pastored a number of churches for various denominations. By the time he entered Canadian Bible College, Paul had attended a dozen schools. He completed his undergraduate degree in religion at Warner Pacific College in Portland, Oregon. While in Oregon, Paul attended seminary and met and married Kim. Together they celebrate “the wastefulness of grace” with their six children, two daughtersin-law, and now two grandchildren. Call 443-813-6547 to advertise
www.gracenglorymagazine.org  19
20 April 2013 | Grace&Glory
Call 443-813-6547 to advertise
person of interest
Riverphlo Entertainment Gives Music Industry and Fans Total Access Into The Life, The Music, and The Journey of The Father of Modern Gospel, Andraé Crouch By Hope Dyson & Andrea R. Williams
Crouch’s musical library includes many familiar songs such as the traditional “The Blood Will Never Lose Its Power”, “We Are Not Ashamed” and “I’ll Anyone asked to describe the inspiring legacy Be Thinking Of You”. The Gospel artist’s most recent GRAMMY Award of Andraé Crouch would have trouble finding Nominated project, The Journey, introduced the mega-hit, “Let The Church the appropriate words. After introducing his Say Amen”, which remained on the Billboard Top Gospel Songs Chart for musical talent to the world over five decades over 60 consecutive weeks and was named the Top Gospel Song of 2012. ago, many have come to praise Crouch as a Both the song and the artist were nominated for five 2013 StellarAwards (Artist Gospel icon. Known for penning some of the of the Year, Song of the Year for “Let The Church Say Amen”, CD of the Year African American church’s most endearing for The Journey, Traditional CD of the Year for The Journey and Traditional Male of the Year). Andrea Williams and time-tested songs, Crouch is truly a legend President in his own time. A prolific songwriter and For his exemplary contributions to the music industry, the Gospel multiple award-winning artist, he has been legend was the honored recipient of the 2013 ASCAP “Gospel Icon” recognized as the impetus in bringing Gospel Award; the 2013 “Keeper of the Flame” Award for Social Justice music into the mainstream. A musician and Through Music at the African American Church Inaugural Ball held choir director extraordinaire, he’s worked with the music industry’s in Washington, D.C., in celebration of the re-election of President most popular artists including Elton John, Madonna, Paul McCartney, Barack Obama; and numerous other prominent awards. He’s been Diana Ross, and Michael Jackson. recognized with nine GRAMMY Awards, an Oscar nomination and Affectionately called The Father of Modern Gospel, countless Dove, Stellar, and NAACP Image Awards, Crouch’s songs include favorites such as “My Tribute along with many other accolades. With 18 solo albums, (To God Be The Glory)”, “Take Me Back”, “Soon And Crouch has also been inducted into The Gospel Music Very Soon”, and the newly-minted classic, “Let The Association’s Music Hall of Fame and the recipient of Church Say Amen’. His work has been on display on the National Academy of Recording Arts & Sciences the big and small screens including The Color Purple’s Gospel Music Lifetime Achievement Award. Likewise, “Maybe God’s Trying To Tell You Something” and Crouch was also honored at Verizon’s How Sweet The the theme song to the sitcom, Amen. Singlehandedly, Sound Choir Competition finale event where he was Crouch has changed the genre of Gospel music. presented with the “Living Legend Award” by fellow To capture the music phenomenon in one of his icon Chaka Khan. most dynamic, anointed performances, Riverphlo With a recording career that began in the 60s, Entertainment (spearheaded by industry veteran Crouch was a key figure in the Christian movement Luther “Mano” Hanes) incredibly encapsulated the of that era. His first musical group was the COGICs life, the music and the journey of Andraé Crouch on a (Church of God In Christ Singers) and later, he formed commemorative edition project, The Andraé Crouch The Disciples in 1965. The ensemble catapulted Crouch Andraé Crouche Collection - the Live In Los Angeles Concert DVD. to notoriety and they toured in over 70 countries. Later, With an exceptional group of musicians and singers, the full concert he composed or arranged songs for artists such as Ringo Starr, Stevie DVD contains over two hours of soul-stirring, foot-stomping and handWonder, Frank Sinatra, Bing Crosby, Madonna, Quincy Jones and clapping songs which take fans back down memory lane to the place countless others. In addition to Paul Simon emulating the iconic figure where they heard that first Andraé Crouch song. in recording some of the Gospel legend’s music, Crouch’s invaluable In addition to viewing Crouch’s riveting performances, fans can see musical proficiency and wisdom enriched the colossal legacies of up-close and personal interviews with music industry trailblazers such both the king of Pop, the late Michael Jackson, and the king of Rock as Quincy Jones, Chaka Khan, Rance Allen and Donnie McClurkin and Roll, the late Elvis Presley. He is undoubtedly a pivotal force as they speak on the musical contributions of the Hollywood Walk of in the music industry who has transcended multiple genres of music Fame star. Leading the Gospel music industry with his God-given including contemporary light rock, pop, jazz, African/world music, musical abilities, Crouch made history being the first Gospel artist and of course, Gospel. selected by the Public Broadcasting System (PBS) to be featured on Gifted with the ability to sing as well as preach the Gospel, Crouch the network, with portions of the Andraé Crouch Collection - the Live serves as Senior Pastor of New Christ Memorial Church of God In In Los Angeles Concert DVD airing nationwide. Christ in San Fernando, CA. A trailblazer, Andraé Crouch has given Over the past five decades, Crouch’s musical gift has made room sacred music lovers a soundtrack for the church. The “Live In Los for him not only in the Gospel arena, but also in both television and film. Angeles” Concert DVD is part of The Andraé Crouch Collection His musical talent can be heard in the Academy Award and Golden which also includes his new CD, the GRAMMY and Stellar Award Globe-nominated movies, “The Lion King” and the aforementioned nominated The Journey, and a Bonus DVD of the making of The “The Color Purple”. In addition, Crouch’s expertise has been heard on Journey. The Andraé Crouch Collection is not available in stores, the movie soundtracks of “Free Willy” and “Once Upon A Forest”. but can be purchased by logging on to www.acthejourney.com or by A musician, composer, recording artist, songwriter, arranger and producer, calling 1.800.890.1605. www.gracenglorymagazine.org 21
22 April 2013 | Grace&Glory
Call 443-813-6547 to advertise
word on finances
How to Properly Plan Your GREATEST Financial Year
T
he American Dream has become a debt nightmare for many, even in the church. If we are honest with ourselves, we all want to own our own home, drive a good car and create a comfortable lifestyle for our family. Among the many goals we will set for 2007 as believers, it is very important that we set financial goals. Many Christians do not adopt this philosophy concerning their finances. They believe that all I have to do is go to church and pray and everything will be ALL RIGHT with my money. Well, that is partly true, but not the complete truth. The truth is God expects you to plan and He promises to direct you in the plan. The wisest and wealthiest man in the Bible said this, “If you PLAN and work hard, you will have plenty; if you get in a hurry, you end up poor.” (Proverbs 21:5 (CEV)) He also said, “A man may plan his course; but the Lord directs his steps.” (Proverbs 16:9 (AAT)) So we can see clearly here in scripture that God expects us to PLAN. One person said “if you fail to PLAN, you plan to FAIL.” Let us see how we can plan for our greatest financial year. In Christ, we should always expect the best and be prepared for the worst. We can do ALL things through Christ that strengthens us. These are steps that can be taken to assist you in your planning:
you are then and only then beginning to get serious about eliminating debt in your life. 2012 is a year of debt-release.
3. Build Liquidity. What this simply means is that you need to create more positive cash flow this year. Most Christians as I often say have “Cash No” or Cash Go”, but what you need is CASHFLOW. Controlling your spending is just the first step, but you also have to build your assets. If you are on a dead end job you need to discover your gift and let it make room for you. (Proverbs 128:16) The economic system today is not set up for 9-5pm workers to get ahead financially. It is modern slavery and bondage. If you sincerely desire and want financial freedom as a believer in Christ, then you must start your own business, or get involved with a Home-Based MLM (Multi-Level Marketing) direct selling business. Don’t quit your 9–5 employment until you have built your business to a place where you are self-sufficient. Real estate is also a way to build liquidity and increase your asset-base. Christians ought to have real estate; the Three (3) reasons why I should plan financially: earth is the Lord’s. (Psalm 24:1)
1. God expects me to play an active part in exercising my mind and abilities.
4. Finally, set short term and long term goals. Goals are your stepping stones to 2. It helps to strengthen your control over life’s your dreams becoming a reality. The setbacks. promise of God is if we delight ourselves in the Lord he will give us the desires 3. Planning is the biblical prerequisite for financial of our heart. (Psalm 37:24) When you increase. delight yourself in Christ, which means spend time in worship, prayer, fellowship, and giving to His work 1. Spend less than what you earn. The only way to do this is to write joyfully, generously and sacrificially, you have a right to set goals that and record your earnings and spending. Consumption is probably your will allow Him to provide for your NEEDS and DESIRES. “public enemy #1” concerning your money. Before every purchase ask yourself these simple questions: “Is this a need, want or desire?” I believe that these steps will assist you no matter where you are Chances are it feels like a need but it really isn’t. If you can live without financially to have your greatest financial year. Post this page somewhere it, you probably should in order to either get out of debt or to spend in your house so you can see it and be sure to attend our next “WORD on less than what you earn. I remember several years ago, I purchased a FINANCES” Seminar. car without a cassette player because I knew I could not afford it and I was trying to get out of debt. I thought that I could not live without a CEV – Contemporary English Version cassette player in my vehicle. Several months after I had purchased the AAT – The Complete Bible: An American vehicle, it occurred to me that I was doing fine without it. I found out Translation then that there are some things you think you need, but you can save money if you do without it. For appointments or seminars contact: 2. Avoid Debt. This year, you must avoid debt like it’s a plague. Debt will rob you of your future happiness. Write down all your debts and make a debt cancellation list. Be determined to eliminate debt. God wants his children sin-free and debt-free. In my workbook, “Creating Wealth in the New Millennium”, I give simple strategies on how to get out of debt and stay out of debt. When you devise a debt payment plan
Dr. Kenneth O. Robinson II, Financial Inspirational Speaker, Radio and TV Host of “The Word on Finances”.
www.kennethorobinson.com Dr. Kenneth O. Robinson, II www.gracenglorymagazine.org 23 23 www.gracenglorymagazine.org
24 April 2013 | Grace&Glory
Call 443-813-6547 to advertise
1980 – With personal loans and savings, the Martins purchase 4 wax figures to start their project as a traveling display, billed as The Martins’ Wax Exhibition of Great Afro Americans. 1983 – The Museum opens in a rented storefront at 207 W. Saratoga Street, Baltimore, MD, with 22 wax figures in 10 dramatic scenes. 1985 – State Senator Clarence Blount sponsors a bond bill through the Maryland General Assembly awarding Great Blacks In Wax a $100,000 matching grant. 1987 – The City of Baltimore awards $300,000 in loans and grants and designates an unused firehouse for the Museum. 1988 – The nation’s first black history wax museum reopens at 1601 East North Avenue, Baltimore, MD. 1989 – Second floor renovation of the Maryland Room and Alberta Cason Room is completed. 1993 – Into the Hold: The Slave Ship Experience opens as a permanent exhibit. 1994 – And a Little Child Shall Lead Them: Black Youth In the Struggle is unveiled. 1995 – The Museum begins its acquisition initiative to acquire the entire 1600 block of East North Avenue for the planned expansion. The first property acquisition includes the Bauernschmidt Mansion on North Avenue and Broadway. 2000 – The Museum begins acquisition of properties between Dallas and Bond Streets to create a commercial district of tourism related businesses in the 1500 block of East North Avenue. 2001 – Dr. Elmer P. Martin dies while doing research in Egypt. 2002 – Southwest Airlines becomes the “Official Sponsor of The National Great Blacks In Wax Museum National Traveling Exhibit”. 2003 – The Museum celebrates its 20th anniversary. 2004 – Demolition of rear area properties needed for Museum expansion is completed. 2004 – The Museum gains “National” designation through a bi-partisan effort of the U.S. Senate and Congress which authorizes $5 million for Museum expansion. 2005 – The National Great Blacks In Wax Museum starts its extended day tour of African-American landmarks & historical sites. 2006 – The Museum launches “Voices of History” Audio Tour for general audiences, children, deaf, and visually impaired patrons. 2006 – The Museum launches the “More than a Museum: The Campaign for The National Great Blacks In Wax Museum”. 2007 – The Museum selects architectural firm of Davis Brody Bond to design new Museum facility. 2007 – Exxon Mobil commences corporate partnership through the “Living Legends Program”. 2008 – The National Great Blacks In Wax Museum celebrates its first quarter century. 2009 – The Museum assembles its design team consisting of the Architects, Civil Engineers, Exhibit Designers, and Landscape Architects. 2010 – The Museum launches its National Board with Mr. John J. Johnson, Executive Director, the Kentucky Commission On Human Rights, as Chair. 2011 – The Museum completes its acquisition initiative. Through City, State, and private funds, it acquires the 1600 block of East North Avenue, along with Eareckson Place and Bethel Street in the Museum’s rear. The City of Baltimore works with the Museum to acquire the properties from Bond to Dallas Streets in the 1500 block of East North Avenue for the development of a commercial district of “tourism-friendly” businesses. 2012 – The Museum launches a series of events in preparation for its 30 year anniversary in 2013. 2013 – The Journey continues….. www.gracenglorymagazine.org 25
26 April 2013 | Grace&Glory
Call 443-813-6547 to advertise
to your good health
Carla J. Debnam, MS, LCPC Executive Director, Renaissance Christian Counseling Center
L
ast month we celebrated the resurrection of our Lord, experienced the change of seasons and witnessed the selection of a new leader for the Catholic church, a choice that signaled that change is in the air. He was the first pope selected from the Americas, the first Jesuit and the first to be named after St. Francis. These distinctives while not as important to Protestants, were encouraging and affirmed the faith of many in the Catholic Church. Many of us are also looking for something new to happen in our faith, our family, and our career or in our finances. We look forward to the new life Jesus promised when he declared that he came to give us life more abundantly. The future usually brings us hope and gives us the incentive we need to begin working on our goals, visions and dreams. The change in weather and time can lift our mood; propel our bodies into action and jumpstart our fitness goals from January that we have already forgotten. Change can give us the opportunity to embrace challenges that we have feared in the past or avoid the ones we do not want to handle. The winds of change can come upon the various losses in life. The loss of a loved one, health concerns, employment challenges and relationship woes can all bring about an opportunity for change. A new house, marriage, the birth of a child or the start of
the job of a lifetime can all bring about changes that you previously had not expected to make. We learn that change happens and it’s not the changes that bring us down or lift us up. It is how we view those changes that make the difference. Change is an opportunity to build faith in God and to develop self-confidence. It is also a part of life and sometimes happens when we least expect it to occur. What we can be sure of when we experience the winds of change is the consistency of God in our lives. God makes the ups and downs bearable and as stated in Daniel 2:21, “He changes times and seasons; he deposes kings and raises up others. He gives wisdom to the wise and knowledge to the discerning.” God is in the midst and is the instigator of many of the changes we have to face. Our choices also play a role in how we experience change and may hasten or delay them, which may or may not be to our advantage. Whatever the source of the change, we must learn to accept the assignment and make the most out of every opportunity that comes our way. The winds of change may be blowing your way but no need to fear. If Jesus can command the winds and the waves to be at peace, surely he can calm your anxiety, ease your doubts and bring order to your mood swings. No matter what is happening in your life you can be assured that nothing is constant but change. So embrace the winds of change, take charge of them and enjoy the fresh experiences that are coming your way. www.gracenglorymagazine.org 27 27 www.gracenglorymagazine.org
28 April 2013 | Grace&Glory
Call 443-813-6547 to advertise
nutrition & you
Nutrients help with brain health. The body uses certain proteins as raw materials to make the brain chemicals that regulate a person’s mood. Carbohydrates increase the transport of beneficial proteins into By Herline A. Knights, RD, LD the brain. Certain fats (omega-3 fatty acids from fish, walnuts, and flaxseed) become part of the membranes of brain cells and control many processes. Poor nutrition can contribute to depression by limiting the availability of these nutrients, although many other factors also influence brain chemistry. Nutrient deficiencies
Eating patterns
Thiamine (vitamin B1): Deficiency leads to poor appetite, weakness, irritability, and depression. Alcohol abuse is the most common cause of thiamine deficiency. Iron: Deficiency causes symptoms of poor mood and difficulty paying attention. Vitamin B12: Deficiency causes mental status changes and depression. Vitamin B6: Deficiency may cause depression and other psychological issues. Folate: Deficiency results in depression, apathy, fatigue, poor sleep, and poor concentration. Vitamin D: Little evidence shows that correction of vitamin D deficiency may decrease symptoms of mood disorders. Individuals living in northern states in the winter that do not drink milk or take a supplement are likely to become deficient. No research studies support taking large amounts of vitamin supplements to prevent or treat depression.
Eating patterns can make a difference. Moderate dieting: Lowers certain proteins in women enough to reduce the manufacturing of brain chemicals that regulate mood. Food restriction: Promotes binge eating, bigger emotional responses to stressors, poor concentration, higher stress levels, and an overall lower sense of wellbeing. Depression very frequently develops in people with disordered eating who either continuously or frequently restrict food. Skipped meals: May contribute to mood swings by causing fluctuations in blood sugar levels. HALT principle To avoid relapse, do not get too: Hungry Angry Lonely Tired
References and Recommended Readings • Alaimo K, Olson C M, Frongillo EA. Family food insufficiency, but not low family income, is positively associated with dysthymia and suicide symptoms in adolescents. J Nutr. 2002;132:719-725. • Alpert JE, Mischoulon D, Nierenberg AA, Fava M. Nutrition and depression: focus on folate. Nutrition. 2000;16:544-581. • Benton D, Donohoe RT. The effects of nutrients on mood. Public Health Nutr. 1999;2:403-409. • Bruinsma KA, Taren DL. Dieting, essential fatty acid intake, and depression. Nutr Rev. 2000;58:98-108. •Eussen SJ, Ferry M, Hininger I, et al. Five year changes in mental health associations with vitamin B12 /folate status of elderly Europeans. J Nutr Health Aging. 2002;6:43-50. • Jacobson AM, Samson JA, Weinger K, Ryan CM. Diabetes, the brain, and behavior: is there a biological mechanism underlying the association between diabetes and depression? Int Rev Neurobiol. 2002;51:455-579.
• Maher TJ. Effects of nutrients on brain function. Prog Brain Res. 2000;122:187-194. •National Institutes of Health, Office of Dietary Supplements. Dietary supplement fact sheet: vitamin D. Available at: http://ods.od.nih.gov/ factsheets/vitamind.asp. Accessed February 15, 2011. • Rasgon NL, Carter MS, Elman S, Bauer M, Love M, Korenman SG. Common treatment of polycystic ovarian syndrome and major depressive disorder: case report and review. Curr Drug Targets Immune Endocr Metabol Disord. 2002;2:97-102. • Salerian AJ. Making the three tenors sing. Washington Post. June 20, 2000. • Soares CN. Sex, hormones, and depression: the impact of sex steroids on mood across the reproductive life cycle. Women and psychiatric disorders: does gender matter for treatment? In: Program and Abstracts of the American Psychiatric Association 156th Annual Meeting; May 17-22, 2003; San Francisco, CA. Abstract IS41B.
www.gracenglorymagazine.org 29 www.gracenglorymagazine.org 29
30 April 2013 | Grace&Glory
Call 443-813-6547 to advertise
womans perspective
In life we are often faced with trials and tribulations, sometimes we feel as though we will never get on the other side, but the truth of the matter is we can NEVER stop Praising God. When tests come our way we have the answer- it is our Faith. You see our Faith in God is guaranteed to pull us through. Recently, I had firsthand experience with my Faith being tested. I had to remember that sometimes God allows us to experience things so that we can humble ourselves and get closer to him. Now don’t get me wrong I pray every day numerous times, I realize that is not always enough. Sometimes God wants our full attention and it is up to us to see that. I found myself praying every second my mind wanders, it wasn’t until I was writing this article that I realized
God needed my attention. He needed me to come to him with an open heart and open ears and as I’m writing this I say Thank you God here I am. So the next time you are going through a trial look at it as God’s way of commanding your attention. Until next time Never Stop Praising His Name. CaSandra Vaughn
Director, Baltimore City Office of Cable and Communications
www.gracenglorymagazine.org 31 31 www.gracenglorymagazine.org
32 April 2013 | Grace&Glory
Call 443-813-6547 to advertise
teen connect
Spring Forward
How can one ordinary person, you or me, make a positive difference in this world? Think about it . . . when someone does something really nice for you, not only do you say thank you but you try to think of ways that you can repay them. It’s nice to be nice . . . we really can be nice. Can’t we? We know youth can be so unkind to each other nowadays, but then so can adults. But as Christians we are called to be different. We are called to kindness. And in an unkind society, our acts of kindness will really stand out. The Bible speaks about kindness: Romans 12:10 (NKJV) Be kindly affectionate to one another with brotherly love, in honor giving preference to one another; Ephesians 4:32 (NKJV) And be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God in Christ forgave you. Colossians 3:12 (NKJV) Therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, put on tender mercies, kindness, humility, meekness, longsuffering; One of the marks of love is that it is kind. It means “to show oneself useful, to act benevolently, to be kind or good.” Kindness
and goodness are so closely related that they are often used interchangeably. The verb itself speaks of activity; active good will, being useful for somebody else’s good (keep that in mind), always trying to do what is helpful to the other person even if it involves sacrifice. So...canwebenice? Surewecan...it does not take a lot. There may be an elderly person at your local church or a disabled neighbor who needs help with their yard. Rita’s Icy is about to open back up - How about getting some for your friends after school? Your sibling needs help with a school project. . . . You can change people’s attitudes from a simple act of kindness. You can take it a step further and do something nice for someone you don’t even know. Can you think of an organization or issue that could use your time, talents or money? Can you give up your allowance for one month to help people in need? For example, you could help youth in Haiti by volunteering your services or donating to the local food and clothing banks. Spring break this year can be your week to give back. Finally, spread the word. If you do something nice and the person thanks you and wants to “repay” you, flip the switch and ask them to do something nice for three people they don’t know. Keep the acts of kindness growing . . . spring forward.
Pastors Gregory & Tonya Dennis Kingdom Worship Center 6419 York Road, Towson, MD 21212
410-377-3500 www.gracenglorymagazine.org 33
34 April 2013 | Grace&Glory
Call 443-813-6547 to advertise
CLASSIFIEDS !! CLASSIFIEDS !! BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY
Fire your Boss! Become an Independent Business Owner. www.mybenefitsplus.com/jsmalls
PLACE YOUR CLASSIFIED AD IN OUR NEXT ISSUE! Go to:
www.gracenglorymagazine.org
Click on “Classifieds” See our great rates on page 6. www.gracenglorymagazine.org 35
36 April 2013 | Grace&Glory
Call 443-813-6547 to advertise
www.gracenglorymagazine.org  37
38 April 2013 | Grace&Glory
Call 443-813-6547 to advertise
www.gracenglorymagazine.org  39
40 April 2013 | Grace&Glory
Call 443-813-6547 to advertise
body basics
As
if we don’t struggle to get through a busy week. The US government recommends 60 to 90 minutes of daily moderate-intensity exercise at least five days a week. That may not be a problem if you are fanatical about fitness. But most of us have careers, kids, and a long to-do list most of the time. So is it really necessary to spend long hours at the gym? Not according to most fitness professionals that I have had the pleasure of talking to. We all agree that around 20 minutes of highintensity exercise three to four times a week is more than enough to obtain a marvelous physique. Although the gym is a good place to socialize and make new friends, most people spend way too much time talking instead of pumping iron! If you can stay focused for an intense cardiovascular workout for 20 minutes, you will burn no less than 200 calories. That does not include the calories you burn hours after your workout!
There are many ways you can increase the intensity level of your current routine and reduce your workout time. Here are a few exercises I recommend. Mountain Climbing: Start in a pushup position. Keeping your hands on the ground throughout, jump one leg forward into a deep lunge. Without pausing, jump the other leg forward as the first leg returns to the starting position. It’s almost like running horizontally up some stairs. This exercise will target your chest, arms, glutes, hamstrings, abdominals and quads. Wood Chop: Stand with feet shoulder-width apart and hold a medicine ball or light hand weight above your head with both hands. As you drop down into a squat, swing the ball or hand-weight down between your legs to mimic the motion of chopping wood. Swing it overhead again as you rise back to the starting position. This is a good total body exercise and warm-up. Overhead Side Press: Stand with your legs slightly
apart, holding your abs tight. Hold a pair of dumbbells at shoulder height with your palms facing away from you. Simultaneously, press the weights up while lifting one leg at a time, almost like marching in place. This is great for shoulders and abdominals. Applying three 20 minute weekly workouts, can maximize your time and help you maintain. As soon as your schedule allows, I recommend you increase your workout in 10 minute increments or add another 20 minute workout to your week. YOU CAN DO IT! Charles “Chizelit” Harris III AFAA Certified Fitness Trainer www.gracenglorymagazine.org www.gracenglorymagazine.org 41 41
gospel industry news Follow me on twitter, www.twitter.com @MissEricka J, facebook www.facebook.com/ErickaJohnson, or via email missericka75@yahoo.com
BET Celebration of Gospel
For the third year BET’s Celebration of Gospel kicked off with its Annual Faith Based Prayer Breakfast, the mission of the prayer breakfast is to unite various religions, cultures, and denominations together the day before the actual show is taped. This year’s newest participants include Deon Kipping, Dorinda Clark Cole, and Comedian Nikita B., DeVon Franklin an executive of Columbia Tristar Pictures and author of the book “Produced by Faith: Enjoy Real Success Without Losing Your True Self, and the special guest host celeb personality Fonzworth Bentley. This year’s “Celebration of Gospel” will include new performances by Baltimore’s Own Jason Nelson, Deon Kipping, and Oscar Nominated actress Viola Davis. Also performing this year a legend in her own right Pastor Shirley Caesar, Donnie McClurkin, Dorinda Clark Cole, Karen Clark Sheard, Kierra “KiKi” Sheard, Yolanda Adams, Tamar Braxton, Israel Houghton & New Breed, Isaac Caree, Canton Jones, Da T.R.U.T.H, Charles Jenkins & Fellowship Chicago, the “BET Sundays Best” crew will be on deck (Jessica Reedy, Joshua Rogers,
42 April April2013 2013| |Grace&Glory Grace&Glory 42
Le’Andria Johnson), Kurt Carr & The Kurt Carr Singers, Rance Allen, Anthony Brown & Group Therapy, Tamela Mann, Dr. Bobby Jones, and Tye Tribbett. The Celebration of Gospel will air April 7th at 8pm. Jonathan Nelson April 23rd Jonathan Nelson will release his newest project “Finish Strong” his first release on his new label Karew Records. The single “Finish Strong” has already been steadily climbing Billboard Top Gospel Songs Charts since its release. Jonathan Nelson featuring Purpose will host a FREE CD Release Concert on Tuesday, April 23rd 7:30 pm at Empowerment Temple, Baltimore, MD; this will be a night you don’t want to miss! Be there! Jonathan is coming home to celebrate with B’More! Can’t wait it’s going to be a great night!!! Mary Mary WEtv RENEWS POPULAR SERIES “MARY MARY” FOR A THIRD SEASON AS ERICA AND TINA CAMPBELL GRAB GRAMMY® WIN GO GET IT - GOSPEL SONG OF THE YEAR. Call443-813-6547 443-813-6547totoadvertise advertise Call
gospel industry news WEtv announced today that the women’s network has green lit a third season of its popular docu-series, Mary Mary. Production will begin in Los Angeles in mid-March. Commented Lauren Gellert, WEtv’s SVP of original production & development: “During the current season of Mary Mary, viewers witnessed two incredible births: Tina’s baby boy and Erica and Tina’s hit single, ‘Go Get It,’ which went on to win the duo a Grammy Award. It’s exactly this type of dimensionality that WEtv spotlights in women. Erica and Tina juggle their lives with grace and style; they are amazing role models for today’s young women and a great addition to WEtv.” Added Erica Campbell: “We’re so excited about the next season as we enter a new phase in our lives and careers. This past year has been both overwhelming and exciting and we were happy to share those moments with our fans. We are grateful to provide viewers with an honest look into who we are and how we handle our differences, and we hope to continue to inspire and encourage people through our show in addition to our music.” Season-to-date, season two of Mary Mary has reached 5.2 million total viewers, up +16% over season one. Music is a family business for the Campbell sisters: Erica’s husband, Warryn, is the group’s producer and Tina’s husband, Teddy, is the drummer in Jay Leno’s band. Outside of the recording studio, both ladies struggle to balance family life — a challenge all on its own. Mary Mary takes viewers inside Erica and Tina’s homes, families and life in the recording studio and on the road to experience just what being a famous singing sister, mother and wife is really like. From diapers and day care, to albums and awards ceremonies, there’s no hat Erica and Tina won’t wear, or at least try on! Hot off their Grammy win and their historic performance at the main stage at the Essence music festival, nothing is certain for Mary Mary—not their manager, not their stylist and not their future as a duo. Mary Mary is produced for WEtv by eOne Televison, executive produced by Erica Campbell, Tina Campbell, Tara Long, John Morayniss, Eric Hoberman and Mitchell Solarek. Kate Farrell serves as the executive producer for WEtv.
Congrats Mary Mary!!! Go get it!!!
Darien Dennis On April 23rd another Baltimore favorite, Darien Dennis, accomplished singer, songwriter, and producer will be releasing his newest CD titled “Strong God” go grab it! Available at all digital music outlets! Darien always delivers impacting life changing music! Ashland Ave Stand Up!!!
Spring has Sprung! Embrace every season in your life it’s only for an appointed time, get the lesson in each one, there will also be a blessing, look for it, learn and grow, as with the seasons, they always present opportunity for growth in spite of the unfavorable conditions, God always finds a way to bless us! Wishing My Prince, My son Taj Whitley a very Happy 15th birthday (April 5th)!! Mommy loves you! To one of the greatest women I know My Grandmother Vena Jackson a Very Blessed and Happy Belated 80th Birthday (March 23rd)! ‘Til next month . . . Follow me on twitter www.twitter.com/MissErickaJ www.facebook.com/ErickaJohnson Like me on Facebook Industry News with Miss Ericka j www.instagram.com/MissErickaJ www.gracenglorymagazine.org www.gracenglorymagazine.org 43 43
44 April 2013 | Grace&Glory
Call 443-813-6547 to advertise
Donna Williams-Ross In Trust Ministries dwilliamsross@aol.com
A
woman who had suffered a condition of hemorrhaging for twelve years — a long succession of physicians had treated her, and treated her badly, taking all her money and leaving her worse off than before — had heard about Jesus. She slipped in from behind and touched his robe. She was thinking to herself, “If I can put a finger on his robe, I can get well.” The moment she did it, the flow of blood dried up. She could feel the change and knew her plague was over and done with. At the same moment, Jesus felt energy discharging from him. He turned around to the crowd and asked, “Who touched my robe?” His disciples said, “What are you talking about? With this crowd pushing and jostling you, you’re asking, ‘Who touched me?’ Dozens have touched you!” But he went on asking, looking around to see who had done it. The woman, knowing what had happened, knowing she was the one, stepped up in fear and trembling, knelt before him, and gave him the whole story. Jesus said to her, “Daughter, you took a risk of faith, and now you’re healed and whole. Live well, live blessed! Be healed of your plague.” [Mark 5:25-34 — Message Bible] Here is a woman who for twelve years was not able to go out into a crowd, not able to enjoy just simple everyday pleasures of life. Because of a Levitical law which described her as “unclean” she was literally banished to her home because of an illness which more than likely she had no control over. Imagine with me for a moment -- twelve years of not being able to be around your family or your friends because of a law. I am sure that frustration, anger, bitterness or any other range of emotions must have overtaken her. The Old Testament and its laws were waiting for Jesus to go to the cross to redeem us back to God and so there was this woman whose life was in the balance – waiting on the promised Messiah. Notice, the woman knew she had to go to where Jesus was, not because Jesus wouldn’t come to her, but she made the decision to go to where He was. Only she knew how desperate she was. Desperate enough to know that she had to make some moves – she knew that she was desperate and desperate people do desperate things. Kinda like what Queen Esther said in Esther 4:16– “I will go to the king, even though it is against the law. And if I perish, I perish.” So in spite of the dirty looks – looks of disbelief she
word of encouragement
would encounter, the crawling on the road because of her weakness, the fear of being caught and exposed before she got to Jesus, she went forward anyway to take care of her issues. Shattered but not broken in spirit, she took the walk to where Jesus was. Are you desperate, tired – tired of being in the same place for twelve long years? You see we too need deliverance from our own issues. We walk around as though we have no issues. Why would we need a Savior if we have no issues? Our issues may be different and varied, but issues none the same. We are outwardly telling the world that all is well, but inwardly living in a place of bewilderment – a shell of what God has called and ordained us to be. God has predestined us to do great exploits on His behalf, but like the woman with the issue of blood we have to truly touch the hem of Jesus’ garment, be willing to be transparent, willing to appear desperate, willing to go into the crowd and be exposed for all to see our issues so that they can witness our deliverance from our issues and go spread the Good News. The Good News that God is a Deliverer, Healer, WayMaker, Burden Bearer, Protector, and Provider. In fact whatever you need Him to be He is the great “I AM”. Are you ready, ready to come out of the issue that you are dealing with? Then let’s go see the King, we are not going to perish, He is going to make us whole – spirit, soul and body. Deliverance is on the other side of whatever issue you are dealing with right now. I encourage you to take a risk of faith and get intimate with the King of Kings and the Lord of Lords. Get in His presence and let the Lord minister healing or deliverance to you. I encourage you to stand boldly and go where no man wants or expects to have you show up and get your issue taken care of. Prayer: Father, in the Matchless Name of Your Son Jesus, I thank You for loving me enough to show me my issue and then deliver me from it. You are the One Truly God – the Only One who can bring deliverance. Deliverance has come to my house today and I give You all the praise, glory and honor, amen. www.gracenglorymagazine.org 45 45 www.gracenglorymagazine.org
carter’s commentary
He Rose A Gardener
It is inviting to recognize that the initial, creative work of the Creator was in a garden. A garden, by definition is replete with lushness and life. Plants, flowers, bushes, trees are alive as they beautify and give nurture and shelter to colorful birds and playful creatures, as they hop through the green meadows. Cool streams flow and babbling brooks reflect the sunlit skies as life is beautiful in balance and in sync with God. Genesis 2:8 indicates, “And the Lord God planted a garden eastward in Eden….” It was a place of perpetual Springtime, and it was Dr. Harold A. Carter, Jr., Pastor known that the Creator, God, did His work in the garden. New Shiloh As the garden had become a place for all of God’s created Baptist Church beings, He gave the first man the glorious privilege of tending it. Baltimore, MD “And the Lord God took the man, and put him into the Garden of Eden to dress it and to keep it (Genesis 2:15).” But it wasn’t long before God’s garden was tragically transformed as the result of Adam’s (and his wife, Eve’s) pride. The serpent spoke. Sin prevailed. Humanity fell. And the garden became a wilderness. The great novelist, John Bunyan, called it “Paradise Lost.” Since, then, there’s been a quest to get “it” back… to reclaim Eden; to find Paradise; to get to the Promised Land; and/or to make into Heaven. The problem, however, has been that since the garden in Genesis had been corrupted, the devil (as initially personified as the serpent) has made his domain what was once Eden. Now, it’s best described as wilderness. God’s covenant people found themselves wandering in such for 40 years, literally. And, all people have found themselves wandering in such, since then, metaphorically. It’s not surprising, then, that in the fullness of time, as Jesus’ earthly ministry was about to commence, John the Baptist (Jesus’ forerunner) is said to have been preaching in the wilderness (St. Matthew 3:1). It was as though God was serving notice that His strategy was to recultivate the desolate and the wild back to Himself… to restore the dry and dehydrated back to life, replete with fertile soil, green grass, fresh spring water and bright rays of sunshine. As Jesus’ ministry began, note that having been baptized in the Jordan, by John, He was immediately led by the Spirit into the wilderness and was tempted for 40 days by the devil (St. Luke 4:1-14). Without a doubt, the symbolism is clear. God was reclaiming, through His Son, Jesus, territory (the world, if you will), for Jesus was able to prove victorious against all that the devil sought to defeat Him with. Isn’t it ironic that three years later, Jesus would find himself being strengthened in a garden, in order to face His raison d’etre (St. Luke 22:43 & St. John 18:1). In other words, things were beginning to turn… to change. So much so, that as Jesus, the Son of God, was crucified, the Gospel writer John shares the following (St. John 19:41): “Now is the place where he was crucified there was a garden; and in the garden a new sepulcher, wherein was never man yet laid.” I contend that this information is to indicate more than a new sepulcher, or tomb, but to give insight, or revelation, regarding a new perspective on the wilderness (i.e. death and the grave). And so, it is majestically fitting, and in line, that on the first day of the week (after Jesus’ crucifixion), when Mary Magdalene found herself weeping outside of the sepulcher (St. John 20:11) that she heard a voice asking her, “Woman, why weepest thou? whom seeketh thou? She, supposing him to be the gardener;…” words that couldn’t be more true. Indeed, Jesus rose a gardener. He’d come to recultivate His Father’s creation, and He’d come to cultivate His Church. On this side of resurrection, think about and appreciate how your own life that was once uprooted and left barren has been replanted, pruned, and given new life. As He’s done it for you and for me, He is, also, doing it for all that is around us. Thank God, He Lives! “If my people which are called by my name Shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek My face, and turn from their wicked ways; Then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive Their sins, and will heal their land (wilderness).” (II Chronicles 7:14)
46 April April 2013 2013 || Grace&Glory Grace&Glory 46
Call 443-813-6547 443-813-6547 to to advertise advertise Call
www.gracenglorymagazine.org  47
48 April 2013 | Grace&Glory
Call 443-813-6547 to advertise