Grace & Glory January 2018 by Grace & Glory Magazine

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scripture page

Happy New Year! 2 January 2018 | Grace&Glory

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January 2018

™

contents on the cover:

Bishop Anthony R. Williams First Abyssinia Baptist Church 2500 Arunah Avenue Baltimore, MD 21216 3300 Norbert's Way Ellicott City, Md 21042 www.fabc2500.org

Special Feature pgs 8-10 -To God Be The Glory! Congratulations to Bishop Anthony R. Williams and the First Abyssinia Baptist Church as they expand to two locations. Bishop Williams shares with us the vision behind this expansion and tells us all about this new mission for the church. He also brings us up to date on all the other great things happening for 2018 and beyond.

Feature Articles 16 WOMAN’S PERSPECTIVE Tiffany Bethea

18 SINGLE LIFE

Ruth Young Tyler

Strategy For A New You

New Year! New You?

22 NUTRITION & YOU

Herline A. Knights, RD, LD

8 Weeks To A Healthier You 4 January 2018 | Grace&Glory

Healthy Body

20 BOOK SHELF

Brandie Manigault

A Call To Prayer (Germaine Copeland)

24 BOBY BASICS

grandparents.com

8 Easy Exercises You Can Do Sitting

Healthy Mind 14 TO YOUR GOOD HEALTH

Dr. Carla J. Debnam, (Founder, Renaissance Christian Counseling Center)

New Beginnings

In Every Issue Scripture Page........................................ 2 Contributors............................................ 6

Entertainment

From the Editor....................................... 7

26 GOSPEL INDUSTRY NEWS

Andrea R. Williams (Tehillah Enterprises)

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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/ Jackie Epps EDITOR-IN-CHIEF EDITORIAL

Herline A. Knights Dr. Carla J. Debnam Ericka Johnson Rev. Tim Tooten Brandie Manigault Tiffany Bethea Ruth Young Tyler

GRAPHIC ARTIST Claire Lesesne www.JandCDesigns.com WEB ADMINISTRATOR Andre Felipe for Arts Period www.artsperiod.com

GREAT CLASSIFIED AD RATES! Rates: $9.00 for the first 10 words and under. 50 cents for each additional word. Add $2.00 for any bold words. $5.00 for each uploaded photo. Payment: We accept PAYPAL, VISA, MASTERCARD, and DISCOVER. Deadlines: The 23rd of every month at 8:00 pm Categories: Help Wanted, For Sale, Rentals, Business Opportunities, Classes, Child Care, Services, Announcements, etc. To set up a classified go online at www.gracenglorymagazine.org 6 January 2018 | Grace&Glory

Advisory Board Chairman — Dr. A.C. D. Vaughn Sr. Pastor, Sharon Baptist Church, MD Vice-Chairman — Bishop Frank M. Reid, Jr. AME Church 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, Jr. Pastor, New Shiloh Baptist Church, MD Dr. Suzan Johnson Cook, U.S. Ambassador Dr. WIlliam H. Curtis Mt. Ararat Baptist Church, Pittsburgh, PA Archbishop Ralph L. Dennis Kingdom Worship Center, MD Wanda Q. Draper/Media Executive Michele J.K. Epps/Health Sciences Cassandra Vaughn/Media Executive Dr. Donte’ L. Hickman, Sr. Pastor, Southern Baptist Church, MD Pastor Timothy V. Manigault Healing Voices Ministries Dr. Kenneth O. Robinson Pastor, Dream Life Worship Center Bishop Walter Scott Thomas, Sr. Pastor, New Psalmist Baptist Church, MD Dr. Timothy Tooten, Sr. Pastor, Harvest Christian Ministries, MD

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from the editor

This was a slogan made popular by the Rev. Jesse Jackson; it has been quoted hundreds of thousands of times and is one of my favorites, “Keep Hope Alive!” I’m sure there may have been many things, events, and circumstances that happened last year that may have tried to kill your hope; but without hope we have nothing. A life without hope can be most miserable. There is also a saying that goes, “If you keep hope alive, it will keep you alive.” At the start of every New Year we look back and reflect upon what did or did not happen. Sometimes we look back with regret and sometimes we look back with thanksgiving. Nevertheless there isn’t much left we can do about 2016 but let it go and keep moving forward. There is always hope for the future. It is a brand New Year and I encourage you to look toward this New Year with a fresh new hope! What is hope? Well, the modern idea of hope is “to wish for, to expect, but without certainty of the fulfillment; to desire very much, but with no real assurance of getting your desire.” In Scripture, according to the Hebrew and Greek words translated by the word “hope”, hope is an indication of certainty. “Hope” in Scripture means “a strong and confident expectation.” Hope is akin to trust. For in hope we have been saved, but hope that is seen is not hope; for why does one also hope for what he sees? But if we hope for what we do not see, with perseverance we wait eagerly for it. Romans 8:24-25 There’s a lot that can be said about hope. There is always room for hope in everything we do in life. If you are alive there is hope, where there is life there is hope, get your hopes up. In fact one of the constant messages in the word of God is the message of hope. Hope is woven into the many stories, parables, and lessons in the scriptures. Anyone who is among the living has hope. (Ecclesiastes 9:4a) -Hope changes how we see ourselves. It changes us into pilgrim persons, people who see this life as a temporary sojourn.

-Hope changes what we value. Hope makes us heavenly minded rather than earthly minded. (Matthew 6:19-21) -Hope affects what we do with our lives – our talents, time, and treasures. (Titus 2:1-13) -Hope gives us joy and peace. Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. (Romans 15:13) -Hope gives us strength, courage, boldness. Be strong, and let your heart take courage, All you who hope in the LORD. (Psalm 31:24) -Hope gives us expectation. Wait and hope for and expect the Lord; be brave and of good courage and let your heart be stout and enduring. Yes, wait for and hope for and expect the Lord. (Psalm 27:14) -Hope gives us confidence in ministry. For it is for this we labor and strive, because we have fixed our hope on the living God, who is the Savior of all men, especially of believers. I Timothy 4:10 God is called “the God of Hope.” This means He is the source of all real hope. If we are going to have hope (confident expectation), it must come from Him for He alone has the power to give it. Hope gives us power to live courageously, to be all God has called us to be in Christ. My soul, waits in silence for God only, For my hope is from Him. (Psalm 62:5) This New Year my prayer is no matter what happens in this year, that you will never lose your hope for the future. Keeping hope alive depends on knowing and resting in God’s word. Jackie Epps Editor-in-Chief

Jackie Epps

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Q&A

INTERVIEW WITH

Bishop Anthony R. Williams First Abyssinia Baptist Church Baltimore – Ellicott City G&G: Bishop Williams, welcome back to Grace & Glory and Happy New Year! You are our first feature for 2018 and we are excited to talk with you and catch up on everything that has been going on since we talked to you last. First let’s talk about 2018, there were many declarations made at the beginning of this year. What are your thoughts for this New Year, what are you most hopeful for? Bishop Anthony R. Williams Bishop Williams: What I am most hopeful for in this New Year, is to see my destiny and life’s work become more connected. This generation cannot be benefitted or attracted without reaching that place in the kingdom for which we say God has called us to be. Paul said I count not myself to have apprehended, but this one thing I do. Forgetting those things which are behind me, reaching forth

Baltimore City Location 2500 Arunah Avenue • Baltimore, Md 21216

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First Abyssinia Baptist Church Sanctuary

unto those things which are before me, I press towards the mark of the high calling of God, which is in Christ Jesus. Thus four laws will direct hope. 1. The law of futuring. A systematic process or plan for thinking and picturing the future for the environment I’m called to minister. Not necessarily driven my trends or movements, or what has been envisioned by others. Even in light of great success, because we are all different. 2. The law of choosing fun over stress and drudgery. Jesus said come unto me; all who are burden and heavy laden and I shall give you rest. I don’t want to trivialize my hopes for ministry, but at the same time I don’t want to choose drudgery when I can enjoy this work of faith. Jesus said Martha you are troubled by many things. 3. The law of failing without regret. The sin is not failing, but the sin is in burying your talent and not trying. I refuse to feel regret if my destiny is marred at certain intervals by failure, if I know I have undertaken God’s plan to the best of my ability. 4. The law of articulation. Owning the hopes and dreams of 2018, will be determined by my ability to articulate the vision. Dr. Martin L. King Jr. was able to case a vision not only for a nation, but the world because of his excellent articulation.

Ellicott City Location

Kiwanis Wallace Hall • 3300 Norbert's Way • Ellicott City, Md 21042

Q&A G&G: Bishop Williams, I am sure that each site will have its own distinct cultures and demographics. In addition to that I would think that each congregation will have differing needs. Will your messages, leadership and guidance be designed to meet the differing needs of each site? Bishop Williams: It’s impossible to champion a vision without making adjustments with equal integrity to each constituency. I plan to put together a team of teachers, social workers, conference planners, social media specialists, drama directors, interpreters, economic advisors, and advocates for social reform, and more to effectively Bishop Anthony R. Williams, Nakia Price, Taylor Williams and Dr. Kathie Williams address the needs of the people.

G&G: Bishop Williams, I understand you are expanding the ministry of the First Abyssinia Baptist Church, please tell us about this mission and the vision behind it? Bishop Williams: The wine that Jesus poured down from heaven which is relative to the penetrating power to transform lives, at times needs to be poured into new wine skins. The wine is not by any means being wasted in my present station of ministry, but the new wine affords us an opportunity to present a model for positive change based on a biblical perspective outside our immediate field of service. Whereas my vision is to reach out to those in Ellicott City where I lived for 15 years and work in the public school system.

G&G: Bishop Williams, obviously, you are under divine orders, but are you surprised or even worried about the path the Lord is leading you on having one church in two locations? What about the challenge of running two sites; multiple services, the timing of the services, delegating leaders, etc.? Bishop Williams: The vision or possibility of being overwhelmed has crossed my mind. But the next step as God shall guide draws me closer to the picture of making my dream come true. I see myself moving into an apostolic vision of planting churches across the state of Maryland and around the country as we install ministers to nurture these ministries, thus propagating the work of “The End Time Harvest Alliance”.

G&G: Bishop Williams, will it be a challenge to maintain the original DNA of the mother church in each location? How will the ministry of the church stay true to the church’s identity and maintain unity as a multi-site church? In other words, will the vision, mission and goals of each site be the same? Bishop Williams: Each ministry will ultimately have its own identity. For in the complete dynamic of being directed by the Holy Spirit one overwhelming influence cannot govern. One particular church culture can be a hindrance, because whenever we’re trapped by one opinion or style we lose any expectation for celebration.

G&G: Bishop Williams, what would you say is the advantage of becoming a multi-site as opposed to building a larger autonomous church building? Secondary sites are often looked at as revenue generators for the original church. What would you say to this? Bishop Williams: They both have their place based on God’s vision. The thought of reaching an economic base that can help supplement the vision of the inner city church ministry such as preschool, community development corporation, school for 21st century leadership, etc. can bring a great deal of satisfaction knowing we have reached back to help the least of these. The scripture says in the book of Acts the people had all things common. G&G: Bishop Williams, part of your ministry includes a school, Tomorrow’s Leaders Christian Academy, and a Cyber church; please tell us about the school and the cyber church? Bishop Williams: Tomorrow’s Leaders Christian Academy will be Christian based school scheduled to open in 2018. I want to commend our officers and members for working so hard to make this dream a reality. As for Cyber church, it’s a means of reaching the unchurched via live streaming every Sunday at 12:30pm through a life giving and life changing word I share from the War room. Continued on page 10

Tomorrow’s Leaders Christian Academy

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Q&A Continued from page 9

Stewards of the Community Action Plan meets the 1st Sunday of each month at 4 p.m. Dinner is served.

G&G: Bishop Williams, I would imagine that you will spend a tremendous amount of time with the responsibilities that will come with running multiple sites. There is the perception that since the pastor is not always present with the flock; the challenge of watching over them becomes even greater than it already is; how will you handle all the duties of a Pastor without becoming overwhelmed (i.e. Bible study, counseling, weddings, funerals, etc.)? Bishop Williams: Destiny is transforming. No one realized this more than Nehemiah. God always meets us at the point of our need. Even as we speak God is raising up Joshua and Caleb to balance the weight of the ministry. ◆◆◆ G&G: Bishop Williams, let’s shift gears a little and talk about a few other things, tell us about your partnership with the community stewards and its vision? Bishop Williams: I believe I share the vision as with others that it takes a village to raise a child. The season of finding fault and casting blame for the city’s plight can be better served by calling the stewards of the community together to address our solutions. So at First Abyssinia Baptist Church every 1st Sunday at 4pm. dinner will be served. We look forward to meeting with educators, preachers, doctors, preschool directors, coaches, council persons, firefighters,

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business owners and others to map out and action plan for preserving the past, present and future legacy of our community G&G: Bishop Williams, I also hear you have a new CD release coming up? Tell us about that? Bishop Williams: A new single release entitled “Heaven Lift My Spirit” produced by Mr. Richard Mosley of GM Productions is the start of a gospel album that I am working on, that I believe is going to touch many lives. So often life knocks us down and we need God to lift us back up again. G&G: Bishop Williams, is there anything else you would like to share with us? Bishop Williams: I would just like share my heartfelt appreciation to Grace and Glory for giving me this platform to shine some light on my ministry and to inspire others to forge into a new paradigm, keeping in mind that God calls out of the shadows of our own obscurity into a place of unprecedented blessings. G&G: Bishop Williams, I commend you for what you are doing for the Kingdom of God. The scriptures tell us that to whom much is given much is required; you have an enormous assignment, and we will be praying for you and the First Abyssinia Baptist Church family.

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to your good health

Dr. Carla Debnam, Founder, Renaissance Christian Counseling Center

Last year was a year of unprecedented change and challenge for many of us. The disruptive political climate and lack of consensus for voting rights, access to healthcare and human rights was troubling. Many of us lost loved ones unexpectedly, struggled financially and had our faith tested like never before. We experienced relationship woes and health crises as well. While the list can become never ending we do not want to linger in the past but move forward while learning and growing from our past experiences. We want to celebrate surviving the storm and standing firm in our convictions no matter what life brought our way. This year is going to be filled with more of the unexpected and unplanned but it will all be to propel us to our new beginning. We cannot anticipate what’s next in our lives without acknowledging that some old ways, attitudes and habits will have to be left in the past. Last year’s pain, problems and provisions are not an indicator of how we will spend this year. In fact 2018 is going to be filled with new mercies, new opportunities and new vision. We can count on this because eight is the number for new beginnings, a new era or a new order. It is a sign of restoration, regeneration 14 January January 2018 2018 || Grace&Glory Grace&Glory 14

and renewal. In order for us to experience new beginnings we must have a time of endings. When endings occur they can be a source of information upon which we can begin to understand our past and then make choices that move us closer to what’s next. Before embracing our new beginning we have to explore how we ended up in our current circumstances. According to William Bridges, “it is only when you see where you have been that you can tell where you are heading”. We like to move on quickly but life sometimes has us linger long enough to see ourselves in an open and honest way. Only after truthfully assessing our lives do we gain courage to move on to what the future holds. New beginnings are a part of the cycle of life. We know that to everything there is a season. God is able to make beauty from ashes and to give us joy instead of mourning. He declares in Isaiah 43:19, “For I am about to do something new”. When God speaks, we can count on his word coming to pass. Whatever vision, dream or desire you have can become a reality with God as your guide. Do not be discouraged when you have to begin again. God is able to make something good out of the dry places of our lives and give us a new beginning.

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woman’s perspective

Happy New Year my sister! I am excited that you have made it to 2018 in the land of the living with us. No matter what you may be currently facing or experiencing, can we agree that every day above ground is a blessing? Can we agree that no matter what you experienced in 2017, you have stepped into a fresh start, a new chapter, a new book filled with 365 pages. The question is what will you fill the pages of 2018 with? If you notice, the title is a statement and a question and that my sister is very intentional <wink>. One thing I know is that this time of year is filled with excitement, goal setting, envisioning, dreaming and planning for the year ahead. New Year’s resolutions are being made, new goals are being set or possibly old goals are being revisited. One thing is certain, even though it is a New Year and yes, it is filled with incredible possibility, if nothing in you changes you will experience the same things in 2018 that you experienced in 2017. Here are some ways that you can see the change you desire in 2018: 1. Celebrate the wins of 2017 – Before focusing on what is to come, it is important to reflect on what has been. What worked well for you last year? What can you actually take with you into 2018? The celebration of our past victories often fuel us for the next ones. They lift our spirits by reminding us that we’ve experienced victory and achievement before. Build your confidence for what you still need to do by celebrating what you have already done. 2. Get clear on what needs to be different this year – “Write the vision and make it plain so that he who sees it will run.” Habakkuk 2:2. The problem with accomplishing our goals often is that we have an idea but we are not super clear what EXACTLY we would like to get done. And if we can be honest as women especially, we can get caught up in the emotions of it and not really zoom in on what we need to be doing. Ask yourself, “Am I super clear on exactly what I would like to accomplish?” Is it measurable? Is there a deadline? 3. Evaluate your capacity – What will it take to get your goal done? Will you need to save money? Will you need to cultivate some new relationships? Will you need to move? Will you need to cut down on TV time? It is important to take a moment to evaluate 16 January January 2018 2018 || Grace&Glory Grace&Glory 16

what your inputs are and make sure they match your outputs. Do you have the capacity to accomplish your desired goal and if not how can you increase your capacity? 4. Get rid of fear and all its friends – The #1 reason above all that keeps us from winning is one simple word I have, FEAR. In this season woman of God, I want to ask you a real question, “What are you afraid of?” Have you ever thought about what is the REAL thing keeping you from your next level? I often hear people say that their problem is procrastination but truthfully procrastination stems from fear. If you are going to win this season my sister, you must face your fear through the spirit and power of Jesus. 5. Set accountability in place – The book of Psalms lets us know that God places the solitary in families. My dear sister we are not meant to be islands. I know that the wounds of previous sisterfriendships may have left your trust in women fragile. But if you are going to grab hold of everything God has for you in this season, you must allow him to divinely order your footsteps to connect with the women who will help you birth what is inside. There is no growth absent accountability. Who will hold you accountable to actually reach your goals this year? 6. Celebrate milestones along the way – Sometimes we are so focused on the big picture that we miss all the little moments leading up to it. I have learned to enjoy the celebrate and not just obsess over the destination. How do you eat an elephant? One bite at a time! Every time you take a big “bite” towards your goal, celebrate yourself and be intentional about it. It will fuel your and energize you for the next steps forward. 7. Just DO IT- The word tells us that faith without works is dead. I don’t even have that much to say about this one. JUST DO IT! God is on your side, who can be against you. Tiffany Bethea She-EO Life Mentor Here’s to a phenomenal 2018 my www.Tiffanybethea.com sister!

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single life

STRATEGY FOR A NEW YOU:

Vision, Plan and Action

Every January is the time of year when people began to make New Year’s resolutions. Usually the top promises and goals people endeavor to uphold for themselves are to: lose weight, pray more, eat healthier, pay down debt, travel, go back to school, secure a new job, save money and make more money. Although all of those things are admirable and ambitious, it requires a certain amount of discipline and an orchestrated strategy. New Year’s resolutions are easy to verbalize. However, the level of commitment to bring those goals to fruition requires an internal resolve. The word resolution originates from the Latin word, resolvere which means to loosen or release. The root word for the word resolution is resolve. MerriamWebster defines the word resolve as: 1. To settle or find a solution to a problem, dispute or contentious matter. 2. To decide firmly on a course of action. 3. To separate or cause to be separated into components. Oftentimes our goals and visions are more elaborate than our individual resources can manage. Nevertheless, when we dedicate some time to write down our goals, pray and seek support from our networks, we will see the results. Relying on the truths inscribed in the scriptures will be our saving grace. The vision we have set for our careers, spiritual, financial relational lives should be written down and meditated upon. Habakkuk 2:2 instructs us to “Write the vision and make 18 January 2018 | Grace&Glory

it plain upon tables, that he may run that readeth it. I believe in the power of prayer. I believe in writing down your vision and making it plain. I believe in creating personal vision boards and meditating on them. I believe in speaking what you desire into existence. Know this “Death and life are in the power of the tongue: and they that love it shall eat the fruit thereof.” We are also reminded in James 2:26 “For as the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without works is dead also.” (KJV) In laymen’s terms: We have roll up our sleeves and work! Isn’t it time that we enjoyed more fruits of our labor? More labor, fruit. No labor, no fruit. We must continue to mediate on the scriptures and be renewed in our minds to keep doubt and unbelief at bay! The valiant men and courageous women in the Bible considered how to incorporate strategic steps for transformational change. Unanimously, they were intentional in key areas which manifested change.

Vision

A dynamic illustration about having a big vision is identified in the book of Ruth. Naomi, the mother-in-law to Ruth instructed her daughter-in-law how to act accordingly around Boaz. Eventually Boaz and Ruth married and had a son named Jesse who would be the father of David and from whose genealogy would come the Savior Jesus Christ. Did she realize her vision would demonstrate such greatness? Maybe not. But nevertheless, she had faith, executed the plan and trusted the process. We must also operate in a higher calling and develop a bigger vision. Habakkuk 2:3 “For the vision is yet for an appointed

time, but at the end it shall speak, and not lie: though it tarry, wait for it; because it will surely come, it will not tarry.” (KJV)

Plan

Corporations, small businesses and even teachers write out plans to work toward. Plans are like roadmaps that help you to travel to your desired destination. As we begin to execute the steps of our plan, we should endeavor to eliminate distractions and remain focus. There will be times when detours will arise and naysayers will become highly vocal. But don’t let it disrupt the plan GOD has for you and your family. “For I know the plans, I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” Jeremiah 29:11 (NIV)

Action

Action requires for all of our senses to be engaged to accomplish a task. Action may be characterized by one’s conscious will being involved in the process. Action requires physical and mental activity toward a desired outcome. Praying requires action. In I Samuel, the scriptures describes how Hanna poured out her heart to God for a son. She used all of her senses to manifest what she desired. We must do the same. As we focus on the things that we desire most in this coming year, let’s consider executing our individual strategies using a three keys to transformation ~ vision, plan and action.

Ruth Young Tyler

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bookshelf

Book Shelf A Call to Prayer

By Germaine Copeland Happy New Year! With every NEW Year comes NEW commitments. What better commitment for this year than a commitment or recommitment to prayer. I read a book a little while back that, in light of everything that has happened in our nation and across the world in this past year, I decided to reread. This month’s recommendation is A Call to Prayer by Germaine Copeland. This is a teaching book. Germaine Copeland teaches you about prayer, about the importance of prayer, about the power and effectiveness of prayer, and about how to pray. This book is full of Scriptures, which in my opinion a book of prayer should be full of, that both lay the foundation of prayer as well as the building blocks that go on top. Germaine Copeland challenges the church by saying, “The time has come for the entire church to answer the call to prayer-those in the fivefold ministry and church members alike. We do not need any more divisions, but instead, 20 January 2018 | Grace&Glory

by Brandie Manigault

harmony and agreement, which will only come about if we pray scripturally as led by the Spirit.” She also addresses pastors dealing with intercessors, intercessors dealing with their pastors, and group members of an intercessory team. This book also points out something that most people don’t like to think about because it spotlights areas of their life that might not line all the way up… conditions to prayer –

forgiveness, abiding in Christ, and praying the Lord’s will and not selfish desires. A Call to Prayer highlights your motives for prayer and help you to pray correctly and with maximum effectiveness. A Call to Prayer is a little hard to find because it is an older book. I found it on Amazon.com for $3.99. It is definitely worth the search. There is no specific audience that I can recommend this book for. Prayer has no age limit, gender specification or cultural borders. It is for everyone. So, in my opinion, A Call to Prayer by Germaine Copeland was written for everyone.

About The Author

Germaine Copeland

Germaine Copeland, founder of Word Ministries (WMI), is a writer and inspirational speaker. As she speaks, people are encouraged by her insight on praying effectively; many experience emotional healing, and learn the dividing line of soulish and spiritual praying. Germaine’s vision for Word Ministries (WMI) is to coordinate a Global intercessory prayer network that covers every nation, tribe, people and language with prayers that avail much. Germaine travels nationally and internationally conducting prayer schools, speaking at churches, conferences, and other groups. Germaine is an Executive Network Member of International Breakthrough Ministries (IbM), and a member of Deborah Company. Germaine is the author of A Global Call to Prayer, the Prayers That Avail Much book series, 365 Days to a Prayer-Filled Life, and Prayers That Avail Much for Daily Living (Charisma House). She is also a contributing author of Women’s Destiny Bible (Thomas Nelson) and Impart Magazine. Germaine and her husband, Everette, have four adult children, eleven grandchildren and eleven great-grandchildren. They reside in Greensboro, Georgia.

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UNITY:

Are You Ready To Answer the Call? We live in a society where the strength of the church is diminished or weakened by individual personal gain. It’s a Me, myself and I mentality. The church is at HER best when the people of God come together as one body in Christ for the sole purpose of the Kingdom Agenda. Our society today eliminates the need to have long lasting relationships. Although, in God’s Kingdom His citizenship differs because the Bible tells us that one citizen has dominion over a thousand but two together gives authority over 10k! God multiplies our talents when we come together on one accord; and that places FEAR in the enemy’s camp. Satan’s political move in God’s physical house is to DIVIDE and to Conquer. 1. Satan doesn’t want the people of God to operate in oneness. 2. Satan doesn’t want the Body of Christ to agree. 3. Satan doesn’t want togetherness in the same place. Let’s Start Being REAL WITH GOD and ourselves! Beloved you will find that today will BEGIN to be the BEST DAYS of your LIFE WHEN YOU SAY YES TO GOD!

Evangelist LaRondi Nicole Flowers 1ST NEW LIFE BAPTIST CHURCH 3215 W. Belvedere Ave. Baltimore, MD 21215 Rev. Washington M. Flowers, Pastor & Founder UMUSTBREAL@GMAIL.COM “A Small Family Environment Where We Say Yes To God!” (Worship begins at 11:00 am in the lower level of Brown’s Memorial Baptist Church-Denmore Avenue Entrance) www.gracenglorymagazine.org www.gracenglorymagazine.org 21 21

nutrition & you

HAPPY AND HEALTHY

2017

8 Weeks to a Healthier You in the New Year What New Year’s goals did you make when the ball dropped at midnight on December 31? If you resolved to improve your health during the upcoming year, you’re more likely to succeed if you gradually make healthy changes. Over the next few days, keep a food journal to help you identify areas that need improvement. Keeping a food journal helps you pinpoint By Herline A. your eating pattern and will enable you Knights, RD, LD to easily modify it. If possible, have your Registered Dietitian review your journal. Starting on January 1, follow this 8-week program to a healthier you. Week 1 Eat a healthy breakfast every day. Many people often skip breakfast. Some skip it because they are often rushed in the morning and have little time to prepare. Some people skip breakfast as a measure to control their weight. Studies have shown that breakfast eaters have a higher metabolism and are more successful in work and school than those who skip that meal. Oftentimes, skipping a meal results in an increased total caloric intake, than if we just ate more frequently throughout the course of the day. Week 2 Drinking more water instead of soda, juice, sweet tea, coffee or other sugar-sweetened beverages drinks saves calories. Even the zero-calorie diet soda offers no nutritional value- it’s just water with added artificial sweeteners and caffeine. Carrying a bottle of water with you will encourage you to sip it instead of reaching for sweetened beverages. Week 3 Practice portion control. Check the serving size on the nutrition facts panel and use the correct measuring utensils to get an idea of what a serving looks like. For example, one serving of pasta means ½ cup of cooked pasta. However, most restaurants serve a pasta dish with 3-4 servings of pasta. You do not need to finish and clean off the plate every time. You can simply ask for a take-out container and take home the leftovers. Week 4 Eat at least 5 servings of fruits and vegetables per day. Keep a bowl of fresh fruit on the kitchen counter and stock your refrigerator with baby carrots, celery slices, raw broccoli, and ready-to-eat salads. Fruits and vegetables are packed with beneficial fibers, vitamins, and antioxidants. They fill up your stomach fast so you feel full earlier. They are also low in calories and help to keep your calories count low. Week of January 31-February 6 Make the switch to lowfat dairy products to reduce your intake of artery-clogging 22 January January2018 2018| |Grace&Glory Grace&Glory 22

saturated fat. Try 1% or skim milk, nonfat yogurt, reduced fat cheeses, fat-free sour cream, and low-fat ice cream. For healthy bones and teeth, aim to have 3 servings a day. Week 6 Boost fiber intake by eating whole grain foods and beans. It’s an easy way to lower your risk of heart disease, diabetes, cancer, and obesity. Make half your grains whole. Eat at least 3 ounces of whole grain cereal, breads, crackers, rice, or pasta every day. One ounce is about 1 slice of bread, 1 cup of breakfast cereal, or ½ cup of cooked rice or pasta. Look to see that grains such as wheat, rice, oats, or corn are referred to as “whole” near the beginning of the list of ingredients. Week 7 Know your fats. Look for foods low in saturated fats, Trans fat, and cholesterol to help reduce the risk of heart disease. Most of the fats you eat should be polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fats. Keep your total fat intake between 20% and 30% of calories. Sprinkle flaxseeds on yogurt, cereal, and casseroles, and eat seafood twice a week. Instead of snacking on chips, and cookies, munch on a healthy trail mix made with nuts, dried fruit, and low-fat popcorn. Limit fried foods to one or fewer servings per week, and use olive oil or canola oil when cooking and baking. Week 8 Reduce sodium (salt) intake for a healthier heart. Research shows that eating less than 2,300 milligrams of sodium (about 1 tsp. of salt) per day may reduce the risk of high blood pressure. Most of the sodium that people eat comes from processed foods, not from the saltshaker. Look for low- sodium canned soups and vegetables, and limit salty snacks. Enjoy fresh meats and produce, and flavor with herbs and spices. Finally, it is very important to find your balance between food and physical activity. Becoming a healthier you isn’t just about eating healthy; it’s also about physical activity. Regular physical activity is important for your overall health and fitness. It also helps you control body weight by balancing the calories you take in as food with calories you expand each day. The centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), along with the American College of Sports Medicine, recommends adults get at least 30 minutes of moderately intensive physical activity daily. For instance, walking at a moderate pace for 30-60 minutes most days of the week will help you maintain aerobic fitness and decrease your risk for heart disease. It will also keep muscles flexible, reduce stress, and help prevent osteoporosis. Healthy Eating Guidelines are intended to promote overall health while reducing the risk of developing nutrition-related diseases like cancer and heart disease. They are directed at all healthy individuals over the age of 14. There is nothing difficult about healthy eating. It is simply a common-sense approach to food that is easy to live with, once you get used to it. Have a happy & healthy New Year!

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body basics

Easy Exercises You Can Do Sitting Down

Tone muscles and increase flexibility at work or at home with these safe and simple chair exercises.

upper body to the right. Inhale and twist back to center. Then repeat to the left. Work up to 3 sets of 20 alternating reps.

Got a chair? Then you're ready for this sitdown, total-body workout! Tone and strengthen with the first five exercises from personal trainer Jessica Smith, a certified wellness coach and coauthor of The Thin in 10 Weight Loss Plan. To alleviate aches and pains, try the final three exercises from Tracey Porter, a personal trainer, certified sports nutritionist, and student of the posture therapy method, Egoscue.

Seated Leg Extensions To strengthen the thigh and hip muscles, you need only extend your leg. Sit on the edge of your chair with your arms by your sides. Extend your right leg out straight and flex your foot so that just the right heel is on the floor. Lift your leg up as high as you can without rounding your back. Keeping your foot flexed engages the muscles in the shins and ankle. Hold for three counts and then lower. Work up to 3 sets of 10 reps on each leg.

Safety precaution: Pay attention to your body during the movements — if anything hurts or causes pain, stop immediately. And check with your doctor first before beginning this, or any, exercise program. ************** Posture Check Simply sitting up straight in a chair tones a variety of muscles in your torso. Turn straight posture into an exercise by pressing your knees together to engage your inner thighs, squeezing your buttocks, sitting tall, and pulling in your belly button (abdominals) toward your spine. It's important to press your shoulders back and down and to keep your neck neutral, while doing this exercise. Try to maintain this posture as long as you can while sitting. Seated Jumping Jacks Get in a little cardio, without any impact on your joints, by doing modified, seated jumping jacks. While sitting on the edge of your chair, open and close your arms and legs as you would during a normal jumping jack, and move your limbs, as quickly as you can, in and out. Start slowly and work up to 3 sets of 20 reps. Abs Twister Not only do strong abdominal muscles make you look great in clothes, they also help stabilize your torso, which reduces aches and pains in your lower back and hips. Sit tall on the edge of your chair and cross your arms over your chest. Inhale and squeeze (flex) your abdominal muscles lightly. Without relaxing your stomach muscles, exhale slowly, squeezing your abs in tighter and turning your

Seated Press-Ups Engage your shoulder and triceps muscles with this joint-friendly move. Sit on the edge of your chair with your arms by your sides, palms over the edge of your seat. Press down with your arms as if you were going to try to lift yourself off the chair (you don't have to lift up). Hold for three counts and then release. Work up to 3 sets of 10 reps. Work Out with a Water Bottle People who sit hunched at desks all day often develop pain in their back, shoulders, and neck. To alleviate pain, Porter recommends a series of three exercises done in a chair, using a plastic water bottle. To get into position, sit halfway off your chair keeping your back straight and shoulders down and pulled back. Place a plastic water bottle between your knees, lining up your ankle with your knee, so that your thighs and calves are at a 90-degree angle. Make sure your feet are about 4 inches apart. Turn this into an exercise for your thighs by squeezing the water bottle 30 times. Sitting Elbow Curls To open up your chest and shoulder muscles, try these elbow curls. Raise your arms at your sides and bend your elbows, so that your knuckles are at your temples. Bring your elbows together and then all the way back to the starting position at moderate speed about 30 times. Arm Circles Increase flexibility and improve posture with gentle arm circles.

Raise your arms straight out to your sides and press your shoulder blades together. Extend arms with palms down, thumbs facing forward, and do 20 forward circles with your arms. Then flip your palms up, thumbs facing behind you, and do 20 backward circles with your arms. Smith says doing each of the previous exercises 3 to 4 days a week will have you seeing results, but there's also no downside to doing them daily. www.grandparents.com

24 January 2018 | Grace&Glory

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gospel industry news

Brandon J. Felder Presents The Largo High School Choir: Rejoice: A Celebration of Music,

Hits Billboard Top 10 Gospel Album Sales Chart SOV Ministries, Inc.’s New Release: Label Owner & Stellar Award Winner Phillip Carter Celebrates Project’s Placement On Multiple Charts Largo High School Choir To Hold Official Release Concert at Kennedy Center on Sunday, December 17, 2017

of the inordinate and sundry talents that walk these halls here. Saying that I am proud of what we’ve presented seems so completely inadequate. The sensitivity, musicianship, artistry, variety and poise presented on this project were a great authentication of the work that the students have done and the God given talents that we have been entrusted. I’m thankful for Pastor Jeremiah Murphy, who laid the foundation and for entrusting me in this next season at Largo. For those who have not listened to our students, I urge you to enjoy and become inspired through our music. And again I say Rejoice!!”

(Washington, DC) – December 13, 2017 – Prince George’s County Maryland’s Largo High School is well-known throughout the state and the The CD is a rousing collection of familiar country for its excellent music program. inspirational songs spanning multiple genres Stellar Award Winner & Gospel like Gospel, classical and jazz. Featured on Pioneer Phillip Carter saw the talent the 15-track release are holiday tracks like “O in the school’s choir when he signed Come Let Us Adore Him”, “A Child Is Born” them to his label, SOV Ministries, Inc. and “The Christmas Medley”. Making sure Last fall, the choir released its debut to include music for every season, the project CD, Brandon J. Felder Presents The also showcases songs like “Bless The Name of Largo High School Choir: Rejoice: Jesus”, “Jesus Be Exalted” and “Receive Our A Celebration of Music, a collection Praise”. Felder, a magna cum laude graduate of seasonal and perennial Gospel from Howard University with a Bachelor’s favorites. Not only has the project been Degree in Music Education with Piano Emphasis catching the attention of the DMV area, and Associate Minister of Music at Reid AME but the nation is sitting up and taking Church North in Silver Spring, MD, is the notice as well. The CD just soared director of Choral Activities and Piano Studies at up the Billboard Top Gospel Album Largo High School. The school has seen its share Sales Chart to #7. In addition to the of notable appearances and accolades and was Gospel chart placement, the project recently named a GRAMMY Signature School also debuted at #21 on the Billboard Enterprise Award Semifinalist. Christian & Gospel Albums chart at #21 and on the Heatseekers Chart at Those in the Washington, DC, area experienced #4, a chart that highlights CDs making CD Cover Photo: Brandon J. Felder Presents The Largo the choir up close and personal this past major moves in multiple genres. Those High School Choir: Rejoice: A Celebration of Music December. In celebration of these students, interested in hearing what others CD Cover Art: http://www.tehillahpr.com/PhillipCarter/ they held their official CD Release and Winter have been experiencing can purchase BrandonJFelderLargoHS.jpg[tehillahpr.com] Concert, December 17, 2017, at the Kennedy Brandon J. Felder Presents The Center for the Performing Arts. This concert Largo High School Choir: Rejoice: A featured Vocal and Instrumental Music, Dance and Narration performances Celebration of Music on BuyGospel.com[buygospel.com] and other digital of Largo High School students and also included students from their music outlets. community feeder elementary and middle schools such as Kettering, Lake Arbor, Earnest Just, Walker Mill and Greenbelt. Felder invites music Carter is thrilled about the project’s success and feels that it highlights the lovers to join in celebrating these music students as they strive towards great talent that is in our schools. He says, “I am really proud of Brandon artistic excellence in a historic venue. Connect with Phillip Carter on Felder and these wonderful kids. It was an honor to help them achieve the Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Also, connect with Brandon J. Felder on goal of recording a CD. They are multi-talented and did a great job on this Facebook,Twitter and Instagram. CD. I think it’s important for folks to know that there are some great things happening in Prince George’s County and at Largo High School.” Felder was excited about the project’s release and the charting as well. “I am really grateful for the privilege to serve and lead such a favored group like the Largo High School Choir. It makes my heart Rejoice when I think of what the Lord has done in such a short period of time here at Largo High School. It's humbling that a High School choir has reached a national music billboard chart but to chart at number #7 on the charts is a true testament 26 January 2018 | Grace&Glory

Publicity: Andrea R. Williams Tehillah Enterprises, LLC Gospel & Christian Music Publicity, Marketing & Consulting Firm www.TehillahPR.com[tehillahpr.com] 240.222.3022 (office) 240.305.5568 (cell)

† 2018 †

ALL IN

NEW SHILOH

BAPTIST CHURCH

Whatever You Do... Do ALL for the Glory of God. I CORINTHIANS 10:31

Is Your ALL on the Altar? Dr. Harold A. Carter, Jr., Pastor

Worship Opportunities

SUNDAY • 8:30 & 11:00 a.m. 6:00 p.m. (as scheduled)

Mid-Week Worship

WEDNESDAY • 7:00 p.m.

Holy Baptism

FOURTH SUNDAY • 5:30 p.m.

Holy Communion

FOURTH SUNDAY • 6:00 p.m.

Early Morning Prayer

Educational Ministries • Saturday Church School EACH SATURDAY, 9:00 a.m. • The Carter School of Music For conservatory information: (410) 523-5306, ext. 17 • Determined Biblical & Theological Institute of Baltimore, Maryland For seminary information: (410) 523-5306, ext. 32

Outreach Ministries

• Sunday Morning Service Live Stream, 8:30 & 11:00 a.m. via our website newshilohbaptist.org • Radio Ministry, Sundays, 8:00 p.m. Praise 106.1 FM • Morning Joy, Sundays, 8:00 a.m. thru 12:00 noon, Magic 95.9 FM

DAILY • 6:00 a.m.

NEW SHILOH BAPTIST CHURCH 2100 North Monroe Street • Harold A. Carter Way • Baltimore, Maryland 21217 Telephone 410-523-5306 Fax 410-523-9812 Email info@newshilohbaptist.org For more information visit us online at www.newshilohbaptist.org

“A ChurCh DetermineD to Live With Christ” www.gracenglorymagazine.org 27

28 January 2018 | Grace&Glory