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October 2019
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contents on the cover: Bishop Marvin Denson & Lady Michele Denson Restoration International Worship Center, (Senior Pastor) The Covenant Churches of America, Inc., (Presiding Prelate) www.mdenson.com
Cover Story pgs 8-11 - Bishop Marvin Denson is the Founder and Senior Pastor of Restoration International Worship Center and Presiding Prelate of The Covenant Churches of America. Bishop Marvin Denson and Lady Michele Denson are hosting the 12th Annual Holy Convocation of The Covenant Churches of America. The theme for this year’s Holy Convocation is “Access Granted”, and Bishop Denson gives us an inside look into the 12th Annual Holy Convocation of The Covenant Churches of America.
Healthy Soul 18 KEEP THE FIRE BURNING
20 WOMAN’S PERSPECTIVE
Bishop Shirley & Pastor Timothy Stanfill
Tiffany Bethea
Staying Your Course With the Changing of the Seasons
A Standard of Beauty
24 TRINKETS TO TRIUMPH
22 MONTHLY MANNA
Minister Carenda Deonne
Crossing Over
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26 SHE SPEAKS
Rhoda Turner
What Fruit is Falling From Your Tree?
Tracey George
Vision Into Victory
Healthy Mind
Entertainment
18 TO YOUR GOOD HEALTH
16 G&G ON THE GO
Dr. Carla J. Debnam, (Founder, Renaissance Christian Counseling Center)
Brandie Manigault
Transformation Conference Version 1
Encourage One Another
Healthy Body
In Every Issue Contributors............................................ 6
28 BODY BASICS
30 HEALTH MATTERS
Charles & Ursula Harris
Dr. Denyce Watties-Daniels
Speak The Health Out of You
Cancer…A Very Scary Word
From the Editor....................................... 7 Scripture Page...................................... 12
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Meet the Contributors 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
PUBLISHER/EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Jackie Epps EDITORIAL Dr. Carla J. Debnam Min. Carenda McCray Tiffany Bethea Tracey George Dr. Denyce Daniels Charles & Ursula Harris Bishop Shirley and Pastor Tim Stanfill Rhoda Turner Melva Henderson GRAPHIC ARTIST Claire Lesesne www.JandCDesigns.com WEB ADMINISTRATOR Andre Felipe for Arts Period www.artsperiod.com
Copyright 2019. All rights reserved. Reproduction without expressed permission is prohibited.
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For more information contact 443-813-6547 • 410-370-2636 info@gracenglorymagazine.org Grace & Glory Magazine is the ideal publication for Encouragement, Empowerment and Inspiration. Follow us on facebook and twitter at: facebook.com/gracenglorymagazine twitter @gracenglorymag Check out our website at: www.gracenglorymagazine.org
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JACKIE EPPS is co-founder and editor of Grace & Glory Magazine. Jackie's career in communications spans over 40 years in advertising sales, program sales, media planning and television production, working in radio for 11 years and shifting to television broadcasting in 1989. She also produces the Grace & Glory show, a faith-based television program that has been on the air for 18 years. DR. CARLA DEBNAM
Dr. Carla J. Debnam is the wife of Bishop Dwayne C. Debnam and an associate minister of Morning Star Baptist Church, Woodlawn, MD. She is a National Certified Counselor (NCC) and Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) in Maryland. She is a member of the American Counseling Association, the American Association of Christian Counselors and Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Dr. Debnam has contributed to two books, Those Sisters Can Preach: 22 Pearls of Wisdom, Virtue & Hope, and 7 Ingredients To An Effective Prayer Life Series, Vol.3-5.
CHARLES HARRIS
Charles Harris is the owner of Chizel It Transformation Fitness. Charles is a highly effective fitness expert with a passion for health and wellness. He is a certified fitness trainer with the America Fitness Association of America with over 20 years of experience, and a certified Yoga Teacher at YogaWorks in Pikesville, Maryland. He is the author of I’m Too Cute to Sweat, What’s Your Excuse For Not Working Out?, and It Takes 21 Days To Get Fit. He currently teaches his mega cardio workout class throughout the state of Maryland.
DR. DENYCE WATTIES-DANIELS Dr. Denyce Watties-Daniels has over 25 years of experience as a clinician and nurse educator. Her areas of expertise include critical care nursing, pathophysiology, pharmacology and the use of technology in the classroom. She currently serves as faculty and the Director of the Simulation and Learning Resource Centers of the College of Health Professions at Coppin State University.
TIFFANY BETHEA
TRACEY NICOLE GEORGE
Tracey Nicole George is a licensed minister and ordained deacon. She is a native New Yorker residing in Maryland and married to Danny George. Tracey works with her husband managing their inventory and asset control company, George Imaging. She is the creator of Trinkets to Triumph, a Biblically-based blog and ministry, designed to edify and encourage individuals with a “trinket” of encouragement. She is a member of New Destiny Evangelistic Church.
BISHOP SHIRLEY AND PASTOR TIM STANFILL Bishop and Pastor Stanfill are the co-creators of Kingdom Word & Worship Cathedral. They are humble servants who live by God's word in everything they do in life, love, travel and business. When they are not spending time with family they run missionary programs in Africa; share their ministry across the globe; and manage 3 businesses. They have learned how to keep their fire burning and keep God first, no matter what tests life brings them.
MIN. CARENDA DEONNE Min. Carenda was born and raised in Baltimore, MD. She received her BA degree from the Fashion Institute of Technology and is currently pursuing a Master's in Law degree from Regent University. Min. Carenda was licensed to preach in 2007 and has been teaching, preaching, and declaring God's word through the power of love ever since. Min. Carenda is also an author of three books. Her latest book, Perfect Patty Messed Up, is a 40 day devotional that confronts the disorder of perfectionism and opens the door to self forgiveness and restoration.
Tiffany Bethea is a bestselling author, speaker, minister, coach, podcaster and mompreneur. She is called to help believers become the bold, fearless CEOs of their lives as called to in Genesis 1:28. Through her Kingdomboss brand she also helps authors, speakers and entrepreneurs to become profitable, Christ-centered CEOs. She is an associate minister and worship arts director at Set the Captives Free Outreach Center under the direction of her parents Pastor Linwood & Dr. Karen Bethea.
Editor
From the
from the editor
Servants of God October is National Clergy Appreciation Month. Pastor Appreciation Day began with the establishment of Clergy Appreciation Month. In 1Timothy 5:17, Paul began the concept of clergy appreciation when he stated that the elders of the church are worthy of a double honor. He reiterated this idea in 1Thessalonians 5:12-13, when he stated that those who work hard among you should be held in the highest regard for their work. This idea became Clergy Appreciation Month in 1992, established by pastors and religious workers. This month congregations all over the nation will take time out to honor their Pastors. It is Biblical for a church to recognize and honor the men and women of God who serve faithfully the flock of God. Paul wrote the following words to the church at Thessalonica, “Now we ask you, brothers, to respect those who work hard among you, who are over you in the Lord and who admonish you. Hold them in the highest regard in love because of their work . . .” (I Thessalonians 5:12-13) It is clear from scripture that the faithful and dedicated Pastors of our churches are worthy of appreciation and honor. Clergy Appreciation Day provides an excellent opportunity for our churches to affirm their love and appreciation for those who are called by God and who lead their congregations in fulfilling the Great Commission. Their responsibility is to equip God's people to do His work and build up the church, the Body of Christ. “And I will give you pastors according to mine heart, which shall feed you with knowledge and understanding.” (Jeremiah 3:15)
Jackie Epps Editor-in-Chief
Pastors and other ministers work tirelessly caring for their flock. A minister's work day is rarely a "9-5" job, and they cannot go home at the "end" of the day and just leave all the occupational problems at the office. A Pastor is never off-duty and he is always on call. If we stop for a moment and think about all he does we would be more sensitive to our Pastor’s needs. We should always lift our Pastors in prayer and ask the Lord to surround them with loving care, to give them strength and walk with them, and to help them with the burdens that they must bear. Many of us have been members of our churches for many years. If you look back over the years, I believe that you would agree that our pastors have played major roles in the fabric of our lives. They have prayed for us, taught us, corrected us and guided us. Our pastors have celebrated and laughed with us in the good times, cried with us in times of sorrow and loved us when we weren’t so lovable. As we celebrate Clergy Appreciation Month, remember to thank God for the precious gifts He has bestowed upon us, His anointed men and women of God, our beloved Pastors! And He gave some apostles; and some, prophets; and some evangelists; and some pastors and teachers; For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ.
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Q&A
G&G: Bishop Denson, I consider this opportunity to interview you a special honor. Welcome to the Grace & Glory family. Let’s start with the occasion, this is the 12th Annual Holy Convocation for the Covenant Churches of America, and I understand the theme for this year is “Access Granted”, would you tell us about this year’s theme and focus? Bishop Denson: It is an extraordinary honor to become a part of the Grace & Glory family. Thank you! The Covenant Churches of America, Inc., Restoration International Worship Center, Lady Michele Denson & I are excited to be a part of what Grace & Glory is doing and look forward to a long and mutually fulfilling relationship. It’s a blessing to prepare for the 12th Holy Convocation of Covenant Churches of America, Inc. “Access Granted”. We want to make certain that all of those who are connected to us and The Covenant Churches of America, Inc. understand the vital importance of access being granted. This year’s theme gives prophetic perspective and insight into our life, church, ministry, relationships, and business. Our access drives the Kingdom of God’s agenda and encourages the believer to pursue with great vigor their purpose in the earth. 8 October 2019 | Grace&Glory
G&G: Tell us, who is The Covenant Churches of America, Inc.? Bishop Denson: The Covenant Churches of America, Inc. is an Apostolic covering, an organization fellowship, providing a broad range of spiritual, educational and professional benefits to propel Pastors, churches, parachurches and ministries into fulfilling their destiny in the Body of Christ. We require a standard of excellence and holiness as a way of life through Godly example by our leaders. We hold fast to the standards of holiness, integrity and character. We assist every member in fulfilling their God-Given purpose and accomplishing their mission, without altering their uniqueness and calling. We provide necessary staff training and development, administrative support and organizational structure. We possess the authority to affirm five-fold gifts, consecrate Bishops in our organization and in the Lord’s church, ordain, license and send out leaders to carry out the work of the ministry and marketplace. We are “Our Brother’s Keeper.”
that will endow attendees with cutting edge tools to be effective in every aspect of their lives. There will be phenomenal vendors in attendance. Our very own, CCOA Culinary Department, will service our attendees as well. The highlight of our 12th Holy Convocation is our consecration and ordination service. During this service, the appointment of new officers, designating Bishops and Overseers for key leadership positions which establish diocese and regional leaders will be extremely exciting and rewarding. Seeing men and women of God successfully go through a rigorous process that prepared them for these elevations and promotions is quite a humbling experience. We are also honoring our Mothers and Fathers in Zion. We want to give these seasoned saints their flowers while they can yet smell them, as well as, acknowledge their service in the Kingdom of God. The refreshing, restoring, healing, strengthening, and fortifying through The Covenant Churches of America 12th Holy Convocation “Access Granted” is a can’t miss event.
G&G: Bishop Denson, would you also explain to us, what is Holy Convocation and what is its purpose? What does it mean for The Covenant Churches of America? Bishop Denson: Holy Convocation is our great gathering of The Covenant Churches of America, Inc. organization and fellowship. We convene as a reformation of believers with a purpose and intent to bring glory and honor to God, empower attendees with information, revelation and impartation that they can take back home and utilize in every area and aspect of their lives. Our desire is to ensure that when our people leave Holy Convocation, they will impact people, communities, cities and regions because they have been trained, equipped and empowered with the anointing and knowledge for the glory of God.
G&G: Bishop Denson, as Presiding Prelate, what are your plans to build upon the foundation and accomplishments of the Covenant Churches of America as you continue to lead them in the future? Bishop Denson: The Lord has graced us with a strong foundation. It stems from being a man of authority yet under authority. As I serve under an extraordinary leader, Archbishop Ralph L. Dennis and his vision, I’m honored to be the establishmentarian and Presiding Bishop of The Covenant Churches of America. I have extraordinarily anointed, gifted men and women of God who selflessly serve the needs of the people and our fellowship. Our future looks extremely bright. We are growing as a fellowship in a very deliberate and intentional manner. The intentional nature of our growth only enhances our ability to provide effective Apostolic & Spiritual Covering, Pastoral Training, Preparation & Development Ministerial Training, Preparation & Development Fiscal Development, Marketplace Mentoring, Administrative Staff Training, Resource Sharing, Ordination & Licensure, Regional Fellowship & Community Outreach, and The Covenant Churches of America International Convocation, The Covenant Churches of America Annual Leadership Retreat, The Covenant Churches of America International Women’s Conference, The Covenant Churches of America International Youth Conference, and Regional Fellowship Events.
G&G: Bishop Denson, would you share with us the plans for the 12th Annual Holy Convocation of the Covenant Churches of America? What is your desire for the people to walk away with after experiencing this year’s Holy Convocation? Bishop Denson: The 12th Annual Holy Convocation of Covenant Churches of America, Inc. is going to be absolutely transformative. Featured, we have some of the premier apostolic and prophetic voices in the Kingdom, Bishop Wynell Freeman, Bishop Kevin Daniels and me, Bishop Marvin Denson. We will enjoy the music ministries of Delaware State Mass Choir, April Hall and Sunday’s Best Season Five winner, Joshua Rogers. We will have empowerment workshops and evening lectures
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Q&A Continued from page 9
G&G: Let’s shift gears and talk a little about Bishop Marvin Denson. These are my ‘getting to know you’ questions. First, how would you describe yourself in a couple of words? Bishop Denson: I am very secure in who I am in God. Most of all, I am crazy in love with my wife, Michele Denson! I am a published Author of Ministry & Marketplace Moments available on my website www.mdenson.com. G&G: Bishop Denson, what is one thing that most people would be surprised to know about you? And is there something you’ve always wanted to do, but never got the chance? Bishop Denson: Wow, must people would be surprised to know that although I am a classic Pentecostal preacher, I actually enjoy teaching over preaching. Obviously, teaching is more transferable in a myriad of different areas of ministry and marketplace. Having oil ministry and marketplace expertise, teaching settings are far more prevalent and ultimately satisfying. I would love to teach at an HBCU as an adjunct professor. Sharing my marketplace experience with the next generation of leaders is one of my passions. Mentoring and helping to shape future leaders in an academic setting is something I hope to do in my lifetime.
of pastoral service. They raised my brother & me in the standards of holiness. My aunts, Pastor E. Ruth Adams and Pastor Sara Palmer, were ministry giants for over 60 years. So, kingdom service is in my lineage and legacy. I was called peculiar from birth and had prophetic visions at an early age. Even in college, my peers called me Bishop. So, the call has been on my life since birth. Lineage and legacy didn’t absolve me from process. I am who I am today because I have had the benefit and blessing of a tremendous legacy in holiness. I thrive because I have the support structure of a beautiful praying wife, children, grandchild whom I love dearly, a dynamic spiritual father, friends that keep me accountable, a great church family and The Covenant Churches of America, Inc. I was born for such a time as this!
G&G: Many people struggle with knowing what their purpose is for their life, when did you realize your mission and purpose for your life and that God had called you to an assignment of this magnitude? Are you at all surprised at where you are today? Bishop Denson: A number of years ago, our spiritual father and Apostolic covering Archbishop Ralph L. Dennis spoke into and over my life at KFCM Kingdom Conference. He prophetically spoke these words, “Thou has been made both a King G&G: Bishop Denson, you have been & Priest in the earth. Learn all preaching the gospel for more than that pharaoh has to teach you and 25 years, how did this journey begin use it for the Kingdom.” Honestly, for you? Most pastors tell me this was I was devastated. I wanted to hear not what they had initially planned for a word that said I was going to their lives, was it the same for you? come off of my job and go into Bishop Denson: I am a fourth “full time ministry”. Once I Bishop Marvin Denson & Lady Michele Denson generation pastor. My great grandmother gathered myself and allowed the Evangelist Allene Dean was a trail words of my father to penetrate blazing pioneer in the body of Christ, establishing more than the core of my purpose and destiny, it completely changed 40 churches throughout the south, during a time of racism and the projection of my ministry and my marketplace career. segregation in the South. My paternal grandfather, Bishop Those words of life were a catalyst to the birthing of The Clarence Denson, was a Bishop of multiple dioceses in the Covenant Churches of America, Inc. I don’t take for granted Church of God. My paternal grandmother, Mother Janie the responsibility of being the Presiding Bishop of Bishops Denson, was the only black female evangelist to be received and Pastor of Pastors. The responsibility of an emerging in white Church of God churches. My parents, Bishop Marvin organization can be daunting. I rest in knowing this is what Denson, Sr. & Mother Madelyn Denson, have over 40 years I am supposed to do and it has become incredibly fulfilling
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knowing that I continue to please God.
would be like today, if he was still with us.
G&G: Bishop Denson, I’m sure in 25 years you have experienced many changes in ministry. So much has changed, particularly with technology and social media. Is it more challenging for the church to keep up and stay relevant, and what do you believe the church should be saying and doing in today’s society? Bishop Denson: The church was once the “go to” for the community. The church has to regain its status and integrity in the community. The church has to become the place the community looks toward for guidance, empowerment and strength. The church was always supposed to be the mechanism that God could use to bring the fortunate and less fortunate together and find the common bond of the love of Jesus Christ. Hebrew 10:25 says, “Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching.” Technology gives us access to an extraordinary amount of information. The community can watch a church or worship experience through technology, but there is nothing like being in the midst of the outpour and experiencing the glory in person, in real time. So we stay relevant by utilizing technology to continue to spread the good news message of the love of Jesus Christ while also using it to engage people to become a part of a greater cause and good that has eternal rewards. We have to keep sharing the message of hope in love that come through Christ Jesus. The sin solution is still the love of God. The church can no longer be sin selective. In other words, the “church” cannot be ok with the sins that they are comfortable with or even benefit from thus being silent on certain subjects. We have to be bold and love on all matters and not just pick and choose when it is convenient or self-serving.
G&G: Bishop Denson, lastly is there anyone who has had a tremendous impact upon you as a leader or mentor? What was the most valuable word of advice or guidance given to you? Bishop Denson: I was very fortunate to have been mentored by some extraordinary leaders in my lifetime. Early in my ministry, I learned the immense value of presence when my Pastor, the late Bishop E.M. Thorpe, attended every night of the first revival I ever ran. He was a prince of preachers and his presence each night for this young evangelist helped shape the relational Bishop and Pastor I am today. My parents Bishop Marvin and Madelyn Denson ensured we had the foundation of the word of God. My brother & I both experienced unconditional love and sacrifice from our parents to help us become the men we are today. Bishop Melvin Jenkins, my college Pastor, brought understanding and opportunity to release my Apostolic and prophetic gifting. Archbishop Ralph L. Dennis and Lady Deborah Dennis saved my “spiritual life”. Our ministry was on life support when covenant was made with these amazing leaders. Words can’t even properly express the love we have for them and what they mean to our lives. Lastly, my ride & live, my wife, Michele Deborah Denson, it would be absolutely impossible to do what I’m graced to do in ministry and marketplace without her unconditional love, support and prayers. She is an amazing mother to our adult kids Monique & Neko and the best GiGi in the whole wide world to our granddaughter, Kalyn aka Button. Thanks babe for helping us live our best life! The wisdom share with any leader in ministry is take care of your family FIRST! Your spouse and kids are your first ministry. Secondly, if you feel God is calling you into “full time” ministry, make sure you have faith and a plan. It is more than a notion and without both faith and a plan, you will endure a lot of unnecessary hardship and disappointment. Lastly, make certain that you have a covenant connection & covering that you can honor, trust and be submitted to. Make sure you have a covering, that in the end, you know has your best interest at heart and release the words of life that drive you to fulfil your purpose in the Kingdom and the earth.
G&G: What would you say is the most significant change you have experienced that has impacted you and your ministry? Bishop Denson: The most significant change that I experienced that impacted me and my ministry have been the passing of my father Bishop Marvin Denson, Sr. He was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer October 12, 2015 and went home to be with the Lord November 25, 2015. His transitioning from labor to reward was taking place at a time in which I was dealing with marketplace challenges, personal family challenges and the church preparing to move to our new location. A praying wife and a gracious God kept us through it all. There is not a single day that goes by that I don’t think of my father. I miss his presence, his scholarly wisdom and his love to talk about the word of God and politics. I can only imagine what the passionate discussions
G&G: Bishop Denson, thank you so much for sharing with us, we pray for your continued strength and God’s richest blessings upon you as you continue to carry out the work of the Lord. Bishop Denson: Thank you for the opportunity to share with the readers about The Covenant Churches of America, Inc. and our 12th Holy Convocation “Access Granted”. Again, we are looking forward to a long and fulfilling relationship with Grace & Glory!
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scripture page
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But what saith it? The word is nigh thee, even in thy mouth, and in thy heart: that is, the word of faith, which we preach;
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That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.
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For the scripture saith, Whosoever believeth on him shall not be ashamed.
For there is no difference between the Jew and the Greek: for the same Lord over all is rich unto all that call upon him.
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For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.
How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? and how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard? and how shall they hear without a preacher?
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And how shall they preach, except they be sent? as it is written, How beautiful are the feet of them that preach the gospel of peace, and bring glad tidings of good things!
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g&g on the go
By Brandie Manigault
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I have been to, served at, and even hosted many conferences over the course of the last 20 years, but I can say with total honesty and transparency that I have never been to a conference like Transformation Conference Version 1. It has been difficult to adequately articulate all that I experienced personally, but I will try to do my best at painting a picture capturing the essence of the conference and worthy of describing a move of God… a move that has transcended anything I’ve experience to date. Pulling up to Spirit Bank Arena in Tulsa, OK… a venue recently acquired by Transformation Church... was like driving right into the center of a party. The DJ was posted right outside the main entrance getting the crowd that began forming hours before the doors opened and stretched in a zig zag formation around the building, hyped to the max. The crowd danced, and sang and had their phones out in full selfie mode. The excitement and anticipation of something great happening was felt from the hotel I stayed at that sat at the end of the venue parking lot. All the streets leading to the venue from the street to the front door were lined with neon green volunteer shirts waving and smiling as we drove past. Once in the building we were greeted by a sea of lime green. And the party didn’t stop. The music was thumping and the graphics on the screen were going. The attention to the creative details were tended to... whatever word is beyond “well” that’s how they were tended to! The 4500 seat auditorium quickly filled up leaving very few seats empty, and the way the arena was set up there wasn’t a bad seat in the house. THEN… then the countdown began. As it counted down you could feel the excitement building. With ten seconds to go almost 4000 people began shouting 10. 9. 8. 7. 6. 5. 4. 3. 2. 1 and then pure mayhem hit the building with screams and shouts and claps and feet stomping the bleacher floors. No one knew what was about to happen, but we knew something was about to happen. We could feel it. And that’s when it happened. The arena went dark and on the massive screen in the front appeared a young “Michael Todd” sitting next to his mother Brenda Todd in conversation. Flash forward 20+ years in 2 seconds to a now 32 year old Michael Todd sitting in the seat the young boy sat expressing to his mother how inadequate he felt embarking on this journey. As his mother spoke to him in the video you could feel the power that her words carried beyond the screen and into the atmosphere where we were. Whatever was coming next had us all on the edge of our seats. The video ended with Brenda Todd saying, “Michael all you have is all you need”, and then the screens started playing a throwback to an old Azusa clip of his mother singing. The crowd went wild as the drummer hit the first down beat of the conference followed by Brenda Todd walking out singing, “Be all blessing and glory and honor and power forever.” Being an Oral Roberts University Alumna, I was in Oklahoma when the Azusa conferences were held at the Mabee Center on campus, and was among the many people that sat in the seats of the auditorium in complete awe of the power of God and the caliber of preachers that came through the doors. I was there to see in person the clip of Brenda Todd that just played in an auditorium full of young adults almost 15+ years later. Needless to say, the moment made me feel all the feels. From there the excitement only intensified. The worship… EXPLOSIVE. The stage was lined with worship leaders from all over the nation. Each had their unique sound but when put together each song sounded like one perfect sound. If you didn’t know who the individuals were, you would have guessed that they were the house band that graces the stage of Transformation Church weekly. Some of the most impressive aspects of the conference to me: 1. Version 1 Conference drew a crowd of this magnitude without ever mentioning who was on the speaker or worship leader line up. Attendees flew in from all over the world to converge on Tulsa’s space.
g&g on the go It was made abundantly clear via all social media platforms that there was only one reason to come to this conference and that was to hear a Word from the Lord… not a particular speaker. 2 Version 1 Conference did not collect an offering for the first two days. Instead of receiving an offering they embedded into each session… the morning and the evening sessions… generosity moments giving away 1) college tuition, 2) a new car, 3) a year’s worth of someone’s mortgage paid, 4) a year’s worth of someone’s car note paid, 5) a paid vacation for a woman and her son and 6) custom designed conference Nikes. 3. Version 1 had everyone feeling like at any moment ANYTHING could happen. A special guest rapper could come from behind the black curtain and give us a concert… YUP that happened. A comedian could open up two sessions… YUP that happened. The governor of Oklahoma and a Hollywood actress may participate in the panel discussions… YUP that happen. Corporate prayer could be as prominent of a component in the “schedule” as the preached Word… YUP that happened too. 4. Version 1 had everyone speaking the same language from the green shirted volunteers to the speakers to the worship team, and eventually to the attendees in general conversation with each other in the hotel lobby, the restaurants, and in their ubers. Key phrases that we heard over and over again during the duration of the conference no matter who had the microphone were: “This is not a moment. This is a movement.” “All you have is all you need.” and “It is so.” But by far the most memorable moment of the conference was on night two. Worship was other worldish. It was as if heaven came and sat in the arena with us. The songs were no longer just words being sung. They were living and breathing. The same expectancy that we had for the potential surprises we had for whatever the Spirit of God wanted to do. Hearts were open and ready to receive. Worship just didn’t stop. What do you do when the King of Kings walks in the room? You worship. Well He walked in and we worshipped, and He lingered so we kept worshipping. Every time they tried to transition, the people wouldn’t let it go. They tried, unsuccessfully, only a few times before everyone in the arena knew that it was not on the Lord’s agenda for the night to move from this moment. The “scheduled” speaker never made it to the stage. The worship team never sat down. All across the arena, from the front to the back, from the platform to the risers there were
people experiencing the one on one ministry of the Holy Spirit in a corporate setting. Some clapped. Some jumped. Some had hands lifted. Some sat and some knelt. While others stood with tears streaming down their cheeks. Freedom was an unspoken part of the worship culture created in that moment. At the conclusion of the night the only thing that could be said was “Well, we all know who spoke tonight”! No one seemed disappointed with the schedule change up. In fact, it was celebrated. The next morning we came back with the same excitement and expectancy and the combination of the two almost resulted in a repeat session. Worshipping Jesus hijacked the morning session pushing everything back over an hour. The conference ended with three major announcements. 1. The church will not go back to their old
facility. The “cloud” is resting over the Spirit Bank Arena turned Transformation Church and there was no other option for them but to stay where the cloud was. 2. They will not be doing Version 1 or Version 2 next year. For those not residing in Tulsa, that announcement was a blow. Mentally I think we all had in our minds that we would be back in Oklahoma next year. 3. Just as we were all catching our breath from announcement #2, they hit us with the Crazy Faith Tour. They are hitting four major cities next year INSTEAD of doing the conference. They will be going to NY, Miami, Houston and LA in 2020. The way that this conference impacted me on a personal level, I know that I will attend at least two of the 2020 movements. It was just that good to me.
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to your good health
The storms of life and in nature are raging at such a pace that it is challenging our ability to accept and process the events before another one happens. We have been inundated with the sudden loss of loved ones, natural disasters and political chaos. Everyday we wake up to the news of death, destruction and division. In fact many of us have stopped looking at the news, checking social media or even connecting with others due to the fear of hearing more bad news. This has hardened some of our hearts to the reality of pain and suffering in this world. We need a reboot of our compassions in order to
be receptive to what matters most. Philippians 2:4 encourages us to be sensitive to the needs of those around us. “Don’t look out only for your own interests, but take an interest in others, too.” We have become self absorbed and only concerned about our problems, our bank accounts, our wants and our desires. God made us to be in relationship with one another and that connectedness helps us to experience what it means to be human. We need each other. And you and I have to begin nurturing our relationships so when trouble comes we have a network of people who we can call on
in our time of need. The recent hurricanes, fires, street violence, racial tension and other difficult seasons of life make it more important than ever to be in a community of faith where you can be strengthened, supported, reassured and renewed. Focusing on what matters most is sometimes difficult but is worth it because so many people need to know they are not alone in this world. They need to know they are cared about and are appreciated and needed in our lives. The church is the perfect place to emphasize what matters most. It is our mission to share the love of Jesus wherever we go. Through friendship and fellowship we can share the joys and sorrows others experience and ensure them that we’ve got their back. Ultimately each of us has to decide what our priorities are and live accordingly. No matter what struggles we face in life, we must continue to focus on Dr. Carla Debnam, Founder, what matters Renaissance Christian most. Counseling Center
keep the fire burning
Staying Your Course With the Changing of the Seasons by Bishop Shirley and Pastor Tim Stanfill As the days get shorter and colder, many individuals struggle to stay energized and focused on their big goals. Individuals often suffer because they have not yet to stay consistent in prayer and what they are thinking about and acting on at any given moment in their life. Mankind has defied great physical pain and dreadful conditions with centered purpose. In a more familiar situation, you have likely used the power of directed thought in your own life to cope with a miserably tedious job. A lot of us have, at some time, worked a job we despised; and we commonly coped with the workday by letting our minds be elsewhere. This simple illustration can be applied to explore the true power of thought, and particularly the might of positive thinking. You have the full power to produce your own truth. To create the life you wish starts with your undeniable trust and belief in God and managing the direction of your day-to-day thoughts and feelings. I trust we're the co-creators with God, but I decline the idea that mankind are slaves and/or fodder for a furious and judging deity in the world. I trust a part of our minds are entangled with the divine mind. Therefore the 18 October 2019 | Grace&Glory
power of thought is like the force that produces the world around us. It does not really matter how creative and co-manifestation works. It does not truly matter if we're affecting the whole of creation or just the dimension we occupy and refer to as “reality”. What matters is that through prolonged, deliberate thought and visualization you can produce nearly any result you want. Surely relatively small matters like attaining wealth, healing the self, and attracting the ideal mate are well within our potentialities. Pastor Tim and I are living testimonies of that. There's value in humility. But I trust we're at a point in human evolution where it's essential to recognize our greatness. At the end of the day, you’re the master of Watch The Tim and Shirley Show your reality and of your on Facebook, Tuesdays at 8 PM circumstances. You are www.facebook.com/TimShirleyshow what you think of, and Please email your questions on Marriage & your life will abide by the Relationships to Tim & Shirley at TimShirleyShow@gmail.com course that you hold in God’s eye.
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woman’s perspective
A Standard of BEAUTY Did you know that sales on cosmetics and cosmetic procedures in this country have increased 500% over the past 10 years? Yet 80% of women report that they are not satisfied with their appearance. Girls as young as 5 years old have been documented for cases of eating disorders and women of all ages are literally going broke and killing themselves to “feel” beautiful. What we have here is a case of many people walking around with Beat Faces and Broken Souls. This current social climate is one that places an unhealthy emphasis on image versus authenticity. We are encouraged to look the part rather than actually be the part. We as women in particular are encouraged to try to embrace a superficial unrealistic standard of beauty created by the computers that magazine photo editors use rather than embracing our natural beauty that God has given us. The question I have for you is whose standard of beauty have you subscribed to? “Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the LORD is to be praised.” Proverbs 31:30 NIV. God in His word lets us know that His standard of beauty is focused on our character and virtue as women. The fear of the Lord is what should be our focus. Why is that? When we fear the Lord we will keep His commandments. When we fear the Lord we will carry around the fruit of His spirit. When we fear the Lord we will treat others kindly. When we fear the Lord we will live a righteous and holy lifestyle. When we fear the Lord we will make wise decisions according to his word. When we fear the Lord we will reflect His glory in our daily lifestyle. My sister it is those things that will cause us to appear beautiful and attract amazing things into our lives. What is more beautiful than a woman who has the glow of the Holy Spirit emanating from her being? You can tell a godly woman just by her smile, her stride, her warmth. It is simply magnetic. It is more beautiful 20 20 October October2019 2019| |Grace&Glory Grace&Glory
than any vain hairstyle, makeup, or accessories can ever add. So we must make a conscious decision to buy into the kingdom standard of beauty. We must focus our hearts on authenticity versus image. We must set our desires to truly being the part and not looking the part only. “Behold, thou desirest truth in the inward parts: and in the hidden part thou shalt make me to know wisdom.” Psalm 51:6 KJV. It is God’s desire that our inward parts be filled with truth, His truth and His wisdom. So how do we cultivate the kingdom beauty? We must allow the Holy Spirit to fill us to overflowing. We must allow Him to consume our thoughts, desires, habits, mind, body and spirit until we reflect Him. We must allow Him to transform our minds and bring every thought pattern in subjection and agreement to His word. We must allow Him to remove the stains of sin and every ounce of fear, unforgiveness, anger, doubt, shame, and negativity and remake us in His image. Then and only then will we have the confidence that causes us to be beautiful inside and out. I encourage you my sister not to get caught up in this world’s system and standard of beauty that will have you only focusing on enhancing the exterior and completely ignoring the true interior beauty. Let us be examples to the younger generations that true beauty and virtue as a woman cannot be purchased in the makeup aisle, Tiffany Bethea it must be cultivated on the altar She-EO Life Mentor with God.
www.Tiffanybethea.com
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monthly manna
Crossing Over
Anyone who is in my intimate circle knows how important crossing over from one month to the next is for me. My previous Pastor, Dr. Victoria Michaels Jefferson, educated me on the power of God’s great grace. Oh ye of little faith if you only view a new month as “mortgage is due.” In doing so, you have missed the movement of God! He has shifted you out of the old to discover something new. You now have the opportunity to receive new revelation, insight and direction. One of my favorite scriptures in the Bible is Ephesians 2:10 which states, “We are God’s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand for us to walk in.” When the Lord crosses you over into a new month, He has already prepared the good works that you will accomplish and occupy. Take a moment and think of your destiny helpers that will locate you in this new month. Think of all the abundant wisdom you will obtain this new month, if you ask of the Lord. Think of the all the things that will be added unto you, when you place Christ first! There are so many wonderful things to consider. If I may go a little deeper, think of the forgiveness you will extend to others and to yourself; and I am just bold enough to believe that whatever was unfinished in the previous month, think of those things being completed and settled in this new month. I need you to get excited about the goodness of the Lord! I need you to get excited about the gift of breath. In this new month the only thing that is holding you back is YOU! Stop living carelessly unconscious of the extraordinary things happening within you and for you. If you are reading this, the Lord has crossed you over into a new month and what a disappointment it would be to stay in a posture of complaining and laziness. Let the fullness of God’s glory be your fatten portion this month. Don’t you see that things in your life are changing? Don’t you perceive that things are shifting in your business and/or ministry? I know some of you might feel you do the same routines, day after day and month after month. However, I am challenging you to discover something new. Discover something new about yourself and Christ. The Lord did not cross you over into a new month to have a downcast spirit, but rather to discover the beauty of who He is and the steps He has ordered for you to take. Cross over in this new month with an “undignified praise!” You will discover something GREAT! Live life on the promise of IMPACT!
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Carenda Deonne www.carendadeonne.com admin@carendadeonne.com 888-473-2221 Twitter @cdpgem Facebook @carendadeonne Instagram @carendadeonne Blog @ www.carendadeonne.wordpress.com #livelifeonthepromiseofimpact
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trinkets to triumph
VISION INTO
Write your 2020 vision for the year ahead, look to the Lord to validate it, and claim your victory. According to the American Optometric Association, 20/20 vision is “a term used to express normal visual acuity (the clarity or sharpness of vision) measured at a distance of 20 feet.” If you have 20/20 vision, you can see clearly at 20 feet what should normally be seen at that distance. If your vision and outlook for the New Year is clearly planned out, you will see your plans manifest, become tangible, and you will go from a vision to victory. Where there is no vision, the people perish (Proverbs 29:18). Be determined to have a clear vision of your dreams and goals for the New Year ahead. Write the vision and make it plain (Habakkuk 2:2). Turn your vision into victory. Covenant connections are key to taking your vision to victory. Make plans to map out a clear vision for your life coupled with the help of God. This will guarantee that you will have the victory in everything you set out to do. When you are connected to the King, your vision results in victory; the plans that you plot out for your life is your vision for a victorious 2020. Clarity is key to transforming your vision to victory. God places dreams and desires within you to motivate you to live out your vision. When your vision isn’t clear, seek God to give you a clear vision. When Jesus encountered the blind man in Bethsaida and healed his vision, he initially didn’t see clearly but saw people like trees walking around (Mark 8:22-26). When Jesus touched his eyes again, he was able to see everything clearly (Mark 8:25). Go to God for clear direction and be led by Him as you are writing your 2020 vision. When you do write it down, you will
have a blueprint of your goals in a detailed, vivid plan that gives you an opportunity to create clear, step by step action items to transform your vision into a tangible goal that leads to victory. The year ahead is validation of your vision turning into your victory. The year 2020 will be a year of completion and double blessings. You can use Jacob’s story as your evidence of what happens in year 20. In Genesis 31:1-55, Jacob worked for Laban for a total of 20 years, fourteen years for his wives and six for his flocks. God told Jacob to go back to his father’s land and He would bless him. Jacob obeyed God, packed up his family and flocks, and fled. His time was complete with Laban after spending 20 years with him. He departed and received double for all of his trouble (Isaiah 61:7). Like Jacob, you are already rich and in possession of everything you need with your gifts, talents and anointing. In 2020, your vision will move you to possess the double for all you have experienced. Write your vision and victory is yours. Get your vision in your view and victoriously set out to accomplish your 2020 vision. Write your vision, revel in the anticipated achievements, and get revved up. Be ready to go into 2020 with clarity, confidence, and in complete covenant with God. Your vision will be clear but you will see double. Look ahead and visualize your victory! Tracey Nicole George www.traceystrinketstotriumph.com
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she speaks
What Fruit is Falling From Your Tree?
Genesis 1:11 KJV says, “And God said, Let the earth bring forth grass, the herb yielding seed, and the fruit tree yielding fruit after his kind, whose seed is in itself, upon the earth: and it was so.” When God created us the Bible tells us that we were created in His image and in His likeness; indicating that we should reflect Christ in every area of our lives. I have four daughters ranging in age from 7-21. No matter where my children go, just by the way they talk, their mannerisms, and the way they carry themselves, if you know their lineage and strike up a conversation with them you will immediately be able to see us in them. A random person in the crowd addressed Peter saying, “Surely you also are one of them, for your speech betrays you.” (Matthew 26:73) They didn’t have to spend any significant amount of time with Peter to know what group he was associated with, who he hung out with, and who his people were. His speech gave him away. That’s how it is with my girls. Their speech and their actions give them away outside of our presence. My tree bears my fruit. My husband and I created the four exceptional human beings. They not only look like us, they carry our DNA and, because they have been in our presence for extended periods of time over the course of many years, they have inherently adopted our ways. They each carry their own individual characteristics, but the family culture is embedded in them. My husband and I often have conversations about which child bears which fruit. Our creator magnificently created each of us in His image and likeness. In the same way that my children reflect my husband and me, we are to reflect Him. When others encounter us they should encounter Him. His fruit should reflect Him… the Source… the Tree. We are that fruit. It would be strange to walk up to an apple tree and pick off an orange. An apple tree yields the fruit off its own kind. That’s how God
intends for us to carry ourselves. As children of God, our job is to the tree that we are picked from. There will be times when we won’t reflect Him. We are human. We fail. We sin. We have attitudes. We aren’t nice. We are emotional. We prefer our own interests above the interests of others. It’s in those movements that we have to remember what tree we are of. We are not “oranges on an apple tree”. We are “apples on an apple tree”. We are of our Father’s tree. We reflect Him and anything that we are producing that is contrary to our source is out of the order of creation. Side note: Fruit produced out of the natural order of production (oranges on an apple tree), is fruit that doesn’t reflect its source indicating that it has been cross pollinated. Cross pollinated fruit is manmade, not God made. In the natural that may not be bad. It may make a deliciously exotic fruit salad, but in the spirit it produces confusion and an open door for compromise and sin. Luke 6:4344 says, “For a good tree does not bear bad fruit, nor does a bad tree bear good fruit. For every tree is known by its own fruit. For men do not gather figs from thorns, nor do they gather grapes from a bramble bush.” I’m glad that we serve a forgiving God who has giving us a path way back to him when our fruit becomes cross pollinated or even cross contaminated by what we have been exposed to. He has given us a blueprint in His Word to show us how to keep our fruit pure. His manual is what will help us identify what we bear as identical to our Source or from the elements. As we continue to read the Word, we begin to know and understand more of who we are and how we should be. As we get to know the Word we are getting to know Him, and by getting to know Him we are getting to know ourselves. If you see that your tree is starting to resemble something opposite of what it’s supposed to then draw closer to Christ, and watch the transformation Pastor Rhoda Turner happen again. Christian Faith Fellowship Church Chandler, AZ www.cffaz.org
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body basics
Speak the Health Out of You!
The Power of Affirmations
"What you get by achieving your goals is not as important as what you become by achieving your goals." Zig Ziglar Positive affirmations are specific statements that help you overcome self-sabotaging, negative thoughts, and bad habits. Believing in what you are verbalizing will create the life you desire. On the other hand, speaking negatively will produce an unhealthy environment. You can easily train your thoughts and words into positive patterns if you want to change your current situation. Whether you realize it or not, you are using affirmations every moment of your life. Generally speaking, affirmations can be used to reprogram the subconscious mind and put you mentally where you will soon be physically. The key is that you really have to believe in what you are saying. So, if you are on your weight loss mission, you have to tell yourself every day that you are losing weight no matter what the scale looks like. Your body will have to surrender to what you say out 28 28 October October2019 2019| Grace&Glory | Grace&Glory
of your mouth, but you have to be very consistent with your speech. Your words will create the body that you want. Faith without works is dead. (James 2:20) Even if you are currently experiencing a health issue or disease, you have to tell your body what you want it to do, and it will heal itself. By His stripes you are healed. (Isaiah 53:5) A study by researchers at Northwestern State University found that people who used positive affirmations for only two weeks experience a higher self-esteem than at the beginning of the study. Also, in a study published in The Journal of American College Health, researchers found that women treated with cognitive behavioral techniques, which included the use of positive affirmations, experienced a decrease in depression symptoms and negative thinking. When you consistently speak and visualize things that you want, and take your focus off current circumstances, you will experience and see good things start to happen for you. So, try looking at positive affirmations this way, the weight training you do with a high level of repetitions will soon change your body. The same thing will happen with your words. The more you say the right things with a high level of repetitions, your situation will change as well. Affirmations are like exercises for your mind. Through positive mental exercises you can reprogram all negative thinking, in fact, you will experience a boost in your energy level in a short amount of time. When you start speaking good things into your life you will enjoy the full manifestation of good health. I personally experienced this, and have witnessed it in the lives of others. Where your words go, your body will follow. So today, begin to speak the words that will produce the results that you want. A good technique that will assist you is using index card with your personal affirmations written on them. Write the vision and make it plain on tablets. (Habakkuk 2:2) You can keep them in your car or around the house so you can speak them out loud every chance you get. Also, surround yourself with people that speak life into you. Avoid negativity from other people at all cost. Words are so powerful, and they can make or break you especially when you are on your way to changing your mind and body. Stay focused on your goal and always CHARLES & URSULA HARRIS, Fitness Experts remember everything Chizel It Transformation Fitness Center you need is already inside of you. Speak the 9006 Liberty Rd • Randallstown Md 21133 443-253-0090 • www.chizelit.com life that you want now!
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health matters
Cancer doesn’t have to mean a death sentence. With early detection and diagnoses and intervention, individuals can live long lives. October is Breast Cancer Awareness month. Organizations throughout the country are hosting events to increase breast cancer awareness and to support women and families battling this disease. Breast cancer develops as an abnormal growth pattern in breast tissue cells. These abnormal cells develop rapidly. The cells will clump together forming lumps or tumors that can be felt or seen on x-ray. The tumor is malignant or cancerous if the cells invade surrounding tissues. The spread of these cancer cells to other areas of the body will cause healthy cells in those areas to become abnormal and cancerous. Breast cancer occurs almost entirely in woman; however, men can get breast cancer too. There are several types of breast cancer. Most breast cancers begin in the ducts that carry milk to the nipple (ductal cancers). Some start in the glands that make breast milk (lobular cancers). Inflammatory breast cancer is a rare and very aggressive form of the disease in which the breast often looks swollen, red or inflamed. In addition, breast cancer can be categorized according to how the cancer cells respond to hormones. Cancer cells that are affected by hormone therapy are considered hormone receptor (HR)-positive and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2)-negative. Unfortunately, breast cancer often has silent symptoms that may go unnoticed for months. Early warning signs of breast cancer include skin changes, such as swelling, hardness, redness, or pitting of the breast similar to an orange peel and other visible differences in one or both breasts, an increase in size or change in shape of the breasts, inverted nipples and nipple discharge other than breast milk, complaints of
general pain in/on any part of the breast, lumps or nodes felt on or inside of the breast, and irritated or itchy breasts. The presence of breast cancer is confirmed by mammogram and ultrasound studies. Breast cancer treatments include surgery to remove the lump or the entire breast followed by radiation and the administration of chemotherapy drugs. Many of us have witnessed women and families as they endure this disease. I personally admire women who continue to work and participate in as many of their normal activities as they possibly can. These women place a dynamic face to the concept of living with cancer. We are more than conquerors! Millions of women recover from breast cancer and live out wonderful lives. Fear and denial often prevent women from seeking guidance and treatment from a healthcare provider. I cannot tell you how many women tragically wait weeks and months before seeking consultation from a healthcare provider. A delay in treatment allows the disease to progress in the body and will promote the metastatic spread of the cancer cells. Wisdom in seeking medical advice is crucial. God is able to do exceedingly, abundantly more than anything we can imagine in the face of this serious disease. God is our Healer, our Deliverer, our Chief Provider, and our Comforter. We lift up in Dr. Denyce Watties-Daniels prayer every woman Assistant Professor confronting this College of Health Professions disease. Coppin State University DWatties-Daniels@coppin.edu healthytips 025@gmail.com
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